families thames valley east jan - feb 2016 issue 82

Thames Valley EastJanuary/February 2016 - Issue 82

RECRUITING NOWSuccessful ‘business mum’ is

seeking 5 working partners to workpart-time from home, alongside &without compromising family

commitments or current career.If you have a supervisory,

managerial, sales, marketing,recruitment or self-employed

background, or you wish to developan extraordinary lifestyle,please call Diana Page

01235 53336207747 086518

Nuffield Health Day Nursery - Stoke Poges Wexham Street, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire, SL3 6NB

Tel: 01753 663996Email: [email protected]

• We will teach your child to swim

• Pre-school children will participate in Forest School activities

• We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum

• We are competitively priced and accept all childcare vouchers

• We have free on-site parking

• We offer a free family complimentary health club membership for all

full-time children

LETS PARTY BABY!BIRTHDAY IDEAS FORALL AGESHEALTH SPECIALWIN A MEAL FOR TWO AT THE BOTANIST IN MARLOWWIN A FAMILY PASS TO THE JUMP INTRAMPOLINE ARENA AND MUCH MORE!

...endless ideas for families of young children.Packed with interesting features and fun things to do with the family in Maidenhead - Windsor - Marlow - Ascot - Slough - Egham

FREE!

• Ofsted OUTSTANDING

• Fun and learning for 2–5 year olds

• Experienced and fully qualified Montessori staff

• Early Years Funding available and childcare vouchers accepted

• Visits welcome

For more information please

email: [email protected] call: 01628 477855

www.marlowmontessori.co.uk

Marlow Montessori SchoolBovingdon Green Village Hall

Frieth RoadMarlow

SL7 2JQ

OPEN DAY - PLEASE VISIT US ON 14TH OF JANUARY2016 FROM 9AM TO 4PM - NO REGISTRATION FEE

FOR PLACES BOOKED ON THE DAY!

Happy New Year, from the whole team at Families. I am extremely lucky to work with agreat group of people, who work around busy family lives. In this issue we have some great health features, plus our annual birthday party guide,

look out for ‘How to survive a sleepover party’ on page 15…For the uninitiated, this is partof the unofficial graduation ceremony that makes you into the parent of a ‘tween’ andreminds you that sleepless nights are still possible even when your kids are older!

Have a fabulous 2016!Love

3Telephone: 01628 627 586 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 FAMILIES Thames Valley East

in thisi ssue

3 News & Information 6 Clubs & Classes News EDUCATION 7 How to read with your child and

really enjoy it 8 When friends fall out 9 Education News NEW YEAR - NEW YOU 10 How to start a new exercise regime

when you are a busy mum 11 Looking after yourself when you

return to work 12 Health News 13 How to prevent your child from choking 17 Is your home gas safe? PLAN A PARTY 15 How to survive a Sleepover Party 16-19 Party News and Directory TRAVEL 20 Should you holiday with friends? 21 Exciting holidays in the UK 22 What’s On 26 COMPETITIONS - Win a luxury pair of children's shoes - Win a family session at Jump In

Trampoline Arena - Win a meal for two at the Botanist

in Marlow - Win a Kidy'board and Maped

Jungle felt tip pens 27 The New Year's Resolutions you really

want to make 28 How to keep your children safe online 29 Baby on a budget 30 Mums Who Mean Business

twitter.com/familiestve • facebook.com/FamiliesTVE

copy/advertising deadline: February 1Cover Image: bigstock.com

R

Enrolling Now!Call your local schoolfor details

Ascot: 01344 206466Bracknell: 01342 833380Bracknell Warfield: 0800 915 0199 Henley, High Wycombe & Marlow: 01494 533 203Maidenhead: 0118 9712870 Windsor: 0845 293 7207

www.stagecoach.co.uk

Age 4-18Fun, confidence-building, educationalclasses in acting, singing and dance.

QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

Holiday workshops booking now!

Advertise for as little as £60 plus VAT.

Call: 01628 627586

R

HOWLAND TUTORS(MAIDENHEAD/MARLOW and

WINDSOR/SLOUGH areas)

Expanding local agency (established in 1998 and owned by highly experienced teachers)offers individual tuition in twenty subjects

including: all primary; Biology, Chemistry, Economics,English, French, Geography, History, Latin,

Maths and Physics. Further tutors welcomeTel. (01628) 477164

www.howlandtutors.co.uk

Butterfly Ball a sellout success The inaugural charity ball being held onMarch 5 at the Crowne Plazain Marlow sold all300 tickets to theevent last October.The ball is raising moneyin memory of an exceptional eight-year-oldgirl, Grace Duggan. She was diagnosed witha malignant brain tumour just a few weeksafter her 7th birthday and died oftreatment-related side effects in December2014.The event is to celebrate her life and

raise money for two excellent charities.Blue Skye Thinking (blueskyethinking.org),which is raising money for much neededresearch in to childhood brain tumours, tofind less harsh and more effectivetreatments. The second charity isSebastian’s Action Trust(sebastiansactiontrust.org.uk), a localcharity, who work alongside families ofseriously ill children from the point ofdiagnosis, through treatment and beyond.Local companies and charities have been

extremely generous in donating raffle andauction prizes. Including Perfect FridayWine, Doodle’s Den, Elements in Henley,Spear Reflexology and the PapercupKitchen to name a few.The Butterfly Ball Committee is still

looking for company sponsorship andunusual or ‘money can’t buy’ auctionprizes, if you can help in any way pleaseemail [email protected]

Make a difference in yourlocal communityFoodshare is a local charity thatworks closely with churches,schools, The Brett Foundation andThe Salvation Army in Maidenheadto ensure free meals are available forthose in need, every day of theweek. They also provide frozenhomemade meals to be heated up. Foodshare provides food for

people who can’t provide for theirfamilies. They have enough pasta andbaked beans but they alwayswelcome the following donations:tins of fish, ham, corned beef andmeat; tins of fruit, tomatoes andvegetables; breakfast cereals, cerealbars and biscuits; cooking sauces,herbs and spices; fruit juice, jams andlong life milk (UHT); rice, soup,sugar, tea bags and instant coffee. You can donate items at

Sainsbury’s, Central Maidenhead, SL65AG and other places listed onfoodshare.today. You can also donatehand cooked meals to be frozen -check their website to find outmore.

www.FamiliesTVEast.co.uk T: 01628 627586F: 08717 146 305 (calls cost 10p/min)E: [email protected]: Claire Wintercirculation: 19,5 00next issue: March/April 2016 - due out: March 2, featuring: Under 5’s Special and Easter

4 FAMILIES Thames Valley East JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 E-mail: [email protected]

News & Info

Little Fishes Preschool

Children come first at Communityrun Preschool in Maidenhead• Daily sessions 9.15am-1pm with lunch• Large outside space• Social snack time• High staff to child ratio• Links to local schools• Regular woodland visits• Early years Foundation Stage Curriculum followed

• Ofsted registeredFor more information or to arrange a visitplease call 07855 572336 or visitwww.little-fishes-preschool.co.uk

Furze Platt War memorial Hall75 Furze Platt RoadMaidenhead SL6 7NG

Registered charity no: 1070343

Bellydancinglessons withRachelfor all ages and levels

in Maidenhead, Windsor,Wokingham and Twyford

[email protected]

Photo by Maani Vadgama

Spanish Dance ClassesFor Children age 6-7 year olds

Try a different genre of dance, learn to playthe castanets, have fun with regional and

flamenco dances.

For more information and to register Phone Sue - School of Spanish Dance Marlow

01628 529413

Places are limited so early registration isrecommended

Sue is a registered and fully qualified teacher andexaminer of the Spanish Dance Society with morethan 25 years dance teaching experience both in the

UK and overseas

The Firestation’s future is still in doubtThe Royal Borough has announced that thecouncil-owned arts centre at The Old Court inSt Leonards Road, Windsor is not under threatof closure. However the current providers ofthe arts service, Firestation Arts & Culture CICmay not remain the organisation that deliversthe service after September 2016.They have decided to put the arts provision

service out to tender after the shockannouncement in December that they may notrenew the current tenancy agreement in March2016 with the Firestation.Cllr Claire Stretton, principal member for

culture and communities, said: “We have nointention whatsoever of closing The Old Court,or of relocating arts provision elsewhere…”“The Old Court will most definitely remain

as a community space for community artsactivities – we are fully committed to this, inkeeping with the spirit of the trust which wasestablished when the venue first opened as anarts centre.”The council has agreed to extend the

Firestation’s current lease and grantarrangements until 30 September 2016, whilethe formal procurement process is undertaken.Dan Eastmond, Managing Director of the

Firestation said: " I am pleased that the Boroughhas decided to adopt a more reasonabletimetable and heartened to see the communityvocalising the importance of what we do hereso passionately. I remain shocked anddisappointed by the decision to go out totender, but at least now there is time for theprocess to be run fairly.”Please email [email protected] to have your

say about the future of the arts centre.

Big Garden BirdwatchLast year over half a million people tookpart in the RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch,spotting more than 8.5 million birds acrossthe UK, and the organisers are hoping thisyear's watch will be a record-breakingevent.This year's survey takes part on 30 and

31 January. To take part, simply spend onehour counting the birds in your garden orlocal park, and record the highest number ofeach bird species seen at any one time. Themorning is the best time to look, when thebirds are out and about feeding after a coldwinter night.To sign up for a free Big Garden

Birdwatch 2016 pack, go torspb.org.uk/birdwatch.

Dementia explained to childrenAlzheimer’s Research UK has created awebsite called ‘Dementia Explained’ to helpyoung people better understand dementia.The website, www.dementiaexplained.org,

provides child-friendly dementia informationfocusing on the ways people with dementiacan change and the effect this can have onfamilies. It brings together a range ofresources including stories narrated bybroadcaster Edith Bowman, videos andinteractive games and allows young people todiscover more about the brain, how it isaffected by diseases like Alzheimer’s andshare their experiences to help others.

Great new design for ID bracelets ICE ID have a range of modern alternatives tothe old fashioned style of bracelets.They have designs for both children and

adults that can be worn everyday, with one ofthe biggest selections for babies, toddlers andkids.All designs have a stainless steel tag that is

laser engraved in black, so it is easy to read andpermanent. If your child has any allergies,conditions or taking any mediation, they shouldbe wearing proper ID all day, every day. Even if your child does not have any specific

health needs, it’s still a great idea for them tocarry your mobile number on them at all times,in case of emergency, or if they get lost. Prices start at £14, visit iceid.co.uk or email

[email protected]


News & Info

New Warning AboutProcessed MeatsMedia attention has once againfocused on processed meats as apotential cause of cancer. The World Health Organization

(WHO) has said that processedmeat such as bacon, ham andsausages do cause cancer. They saythat less than a couple of slices ofbacon a day – 50g – can increase therisk of cancer of the colon by 18%.Though meat can have some healthbenefits, the processes used topreserve meats such as curing,smoking, adding preservatives andsalting have been shown to becarcinogenic. Unprocessed red meat,says WHO, is “probablycarcinogenic” but there was lessclear evidence. Cooking meats to ahigh temperature, such as on abarbecue, is also carcinogenic.

Health advice would now seem tosay that the occasional bacon or hamsandwich would not be harmful butthat frequent consumption is notgood for you.

‘Outstanding’ Ofsted forSunninghill Nursery

Staff at Sunninghill Day Nursery arecelebrating being awarded an Outstandingunder the new Ofsted CommonInspection Framework last December.The nursery was judged as Outstanding

in all four areas: leadership andmanagement; quality of teaching, learningan assessment; personal development,behaviour and welfare and then overalloutcomes for children.The report stated ‘The quality of

teaching is exceptional and the children arehighly motivated, eager and engaged, whichprepares then exceptionally well forschool. The children are extremelyconfident and have very close relationshipsand bonds with the staff. They thrive at thenursery and make rapid progress. They areprovided with wonderful opportunities toexplore their local community and worldaround them’. Zoe Dance, Manager, said “we were so

thrilled to get an Outstanding inspectionrecently. The staff have worked really hardand the team continually reflects on theirpractice to strengthen our first ratenursery”.If you wish to view the nursery pleasecontact Zoe on 01344 875179.www.countrysidenurseries.co.uk

Flu jab being shunnedThe number of people in the UK who havedecided to have the flu jab has fallenalarmingly. Doctors are worried that thiscould lead to a sharp rise in cases of flu invulnerable groups, such as the elderly. The 6% fall in take-up may be due to the

mild autumn weather and the mediastories about last year’s flu jab being insome cases ineffectual, according to theRoyal College of General Practitioners. Last year’s variety of flu mutated,

meaning that the vaccine was not aseffective as it should have been. Those whomay be at most risk of complications fromflu, such as those with underlying healthproblems, pregnant women and the elderly,should be encouraged to take up thevaccine.

It’s time to entera new world and discover that Stagecoach provides for more than just a loveof performing.Our acting, singingand dance classes boost

and curiosity - skills that will stay with them for life.

WHY STAGECOACH?• We’re the largest network ofpart-time performing artsschools for 6 to 18 year oldsin the UK

• Inspirational teachers withperformance experience

• Small classes withperformance opportunitiesfor all students

• We partner with majorarts bodies includingRADA, LAMDA andTrinity.

• Full child protectionpolicies at every schoolwith independentinspections

Find out more and start your child’s journey today:

F

stagecoach.co.uk/maidenhead

0118 9712870

[email protected]

Find us at:

Manor Green School,Elizabeth Hawkes WayMaidenheadSL6 3EQ

Classes are held Friday’s and all day Saturday

QUALITYTRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988

Opening in Maidenhead

NEW SCHOOL


Clubs & Classes News

Maidenhead Gymnas�cs Club & Gymtots

Gymnas�cs based physical educa�onfor pre-school and school aged childrenat our gym within the grounds ofAltwood School, Maidenhead.

MaidenheadGymnas�cs.ukVisit:-

Or Telephone / Text 07 957 223 124 for details

New pre-school art class in Windsor A new fun packed creative class for the under-5s, Messy Monets is beingheld at the Poppies Children’s Centre in Windsor this January.The class is an hour-long and starts on January 13 at 10am. The children

get to make two things to take home each session, so its great value formoney and the little ones are kept nice and busy.During the session, the children also do some modelling with play-dough

(to strengthen little hands in preparation for writing), paint with hands andfeet on a massive wallpaper strip and dance around in bubbles at the endof each session to music. Cost: £5, £4 siblings. Loyalty cards available; messymonets.co.uk

New Art class for older children in Maidenhead Artspiration has launched an Advanced Art Group for young artists, aged12-16 years. The aim of the class is to allow the young people to exploreand learn new skills, with direction from professional artists. John Byrne,Inge du Plessis and Jonathan Newey are some of the experts that they willbe working with. The classes are a brilliant opportunity for young artists tohone and develop their skills and add some very creative work to theirportfolios. To join the class the students must submit a portfolio of work,to find out more please email [email protected]; artspiration.co.uk

Inject the fun back into dance Sanders Street is now holding funky street dance and ballet classes atvenues across Maidenhead, Cox Green and Cippenham.Sanders Street is passionate about street dance and enthusiastic about

helping young people understand the power of dance and how it can boostself-esteem, whilst developing physical agility and fitness.Founder of the company Crissy Sanders says that she has a lot to thank

dance for: “I grew up with a great group of friends thanks to the danceworld and because of this I have grown into a confident adult. I want to beable to give students a modern, funky place to go where they can beinspired to do anything in life. Where words fail, music and dance speak!”Working with Special Educational

Needs and disabled students is also areal passion. Crissy has recentlylaunched #DanceTherapy classes,where she provides classes forstudents with SEND, helping thembuild confidence, enjoy music andlearn exciting street dance moves ina safe environment.Sanders Street also offers dance

classes, holiday courses andperformance opportunities for ages3 up to adult. You can also buy their merchandise online. Go towww.sandersstreet.co.uk to find out more.Facebook - Sanders Street Dance; Twitter - @SandersStreet; Instagram -

@SandersStreet

Stagecoach Maidenhead launches new classes A theatre school in Maidenhead has launched new classes on a Fridayand all day on a Saturday at Manor Green School in Maidenhead.Pupils stepped into the spotlight at the Adelphi Theatre in London's

theatre land last December.The students were joined by hundreds of performers from

Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools across the country at the AdelphiTheatre on London’s Strand. The theatre is well known for hosting thehit West End show, ‘Kinky Boots’. Stagecoach Theatre Arts Maidenhead is part of a network of more

than 600 part-time Theatre Arts Schools worldwide. Early Stagesclasses are available for children aged 4 to 6 and Main Stages classestake place for 6 to 18 year olds. For more information about Stagecoach Maidenhead please visit

their website at stagecoach.co.uk/maidenhead or call 0118 9712870.

REDROOFS SCHOOL FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS26 Bath Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4JT, Littlewick Green, SL6 3QY

& Novello Theatre, Ascot SL5 9NE

Pupils recent successes include: Billy Elliot (West End), Matilda (West End), Soundof Music (UK Tour), Sound of Music (Doha), A Christmas Princess (Feature Filmlead role), Adrian Mole (Leicester Curve), Human Rights (Film), Young Maleficentin Maleficent, Pan (Feature Film), Blackbird (TV), Miss Peregrines Home for Peculiar

Children (Feature Film), Downton Abbey (TV), Bugsy Malone (West End)

5 UK Current World Tap Champion Winners, ISTD Star Tap Awards Winner and Runner up2015, Janet Cram Finalists 2015, Festival Winners.

Part Time Evening & Weekend Schools - Ages 2-19 yearsMusical Theatre School • Drama School • Dance School

Special Training Package for Talented Children

Full Time School - Ages 9-16 yearsCo-ed Academic & Vocational School for Years 5-11

6th Form - Ages 16-18 yearsBTEC Level 3 Extended in Performing Arts, A Levels, Dance, Drama

& Teacher Training

1 Year Foundation Course ages 18-19 yearsOne year intensive Theatre Arts

Agency RepresentationHoliday Courses, Professional Master Classes & Parties

www.redroofs.co.uk or call 01628 674092. Find us on Facebook.


Education

How can we be fresh and eager eachtime our loved one wants to sharetheir reading? It’s vital for

children’s intellectual development and alsobenefits our own inner lives. Here are tenways to truly enjoy reading with your littleone.

1. Celebrate the knowledge that readingwith your child is part of your jobdescription as a parent. The more you doit, the easier it becomes.

2. For babies, choose books YOU like. Theyare too small to understand much but thecadence of your voice gives them comfort.

3. For toddlers, reading together can act asan incentive: ‘if you stay in your bed ALLnight, you can get into my bed in themorning for a story.’

4. Use the time you have. Choose books tokeep a little one on the potty or in thebath for nit-checking.

5. Keep books for daytime reading on thelowest shelf and allow them to select the

book they want, no matter howmany times it has been shared.

6. Books without text are brilliant forsharing – encourage your toddler to tellyou what is happening.

7. At the library, suggest that each of youchoose a title. Your special task is todiscover one they’ve never seen before.

8. When shopping together, don’t expect ayoung child to choose the ‘right’ book. Youdecide. Once they can actually read, allowthem to choose their own books.

9. Books for bedtime should be chosen byyou and kept higher up on the shelves.Make this a time for your child to listenand be calm and contented.

10. As they grow older, introduce to themthe novels you loved as a child. They willalways remember the sense of anexperienced shared.

How to Read With YourChild – And Really Enjoy ItBy Justine Crow

“Not now, darling...” is the plaintive refrain from parents when you’vejust put your feet up and your little one demands you read with them.

Justine Crow is the author of The LittleBook of Nits published by Bloomsbury.Parent of three, she owns her ownbookshop with her partner, TheBookseller Crow on Hill, and is a qualifiedswimming teacher. And in what little sparetime she has, she also runs gastronomicwriting retreat courses in France and isthe food critic of The Transmitter.

8

Education

FAMILIES Thames Valley East JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 E-mail: [email protected]

The dreaded playground squabble has struck, the tears are rollingand you’re unsure as to how to help...

Relax: it’s normalAsk primary school teachers and they’ll doubtless tell you that kidsfall out (and in again) as quickly as a round of Hokey Cokey. It’snormal and most squabbles are soon forgotten: kids don’t beargrudges the way grown-ups tend to. Unfortunately this knowledgewon’t console your heartbroken child much, so…

Reassure, hug and listen Even if it’ll probably blow over, your child might well feel like theirworld is collapsing. Give hugs, provide shoulders to cry on andtissues.

Help them to help themselves Once they’re calmer, instead of providing straight solutions,encourage your child to think through what they could do toresolve this, with guidance from you behind the scenes. If there’sbeen a misunderstanding, how could they instigate chat to explain?If the other child is consistently mean to them, who else could theyplay with instead?

Resist the temptation to wade in! Your parental instincts are urging you to tackle the little blighterconcerned, or their parents, but hold back. Confronting the otherchild isn’t appropriate under any circumstances. Approaching theirparents is a minefield too: they probably won’t accept their childhas done anything wrong. Plus, chances are the children will makeup, potentially leaving an awkward situation between the parents.

When to see their teacher… If whatever happened involved physical violence, is persistent, and/or your child starts not wanting to go to school, then do discuss itwith their teacher. They can then keep a closer eye on the children.

See this as a learning experienceThere might have been tears but chances are your child will havelearnt more about relationships and friendships along the way.

WHEN FRIENDSFALL OUTBy Liat Hughes Joshi

How to help your child cope withplayground arguments

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author offour books including 'New Old-fashioned Parenting' and 'How toUnplug Your Child' (both published by Summersdale) and RaisingChildren: The Primary Years (Pearson).

9 Telephone: 01628 627 586 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 FAMILIES Thames Valley East

.............Education News...............

Should All School Staff Have First Aid Training?Teachers at a school in York did not realise when they went on afirst aid training course that they would use their newly learnedskills just a few months later. When a 15-year-old boy, Alex, collapsed after suffering a cardiac

arrest in a PE class, his teacher Shona Jagger and the school’smatron, Erica Melsom, came to his aid with their skills and adefibrillator. CPR training is only taught in a quarter of schools but the British

Heart Foundation says that it would like mandatory CR training inall schools.bhf.org.uk

Inspiring tuition– free trial session!Explore Learning centres provide mathsand English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds ofall abilities. The centres are open 7 days aweek, meaning Explore can fit into busyfamily life. As Explore members, children work

with tutors who are great educational rolemodels, enthusiastic about learning andfantastic motivators. Each child has an

Marlow primary school wins £5,000 award A OneFamily Foundation community award has been won by theDanesfield School after a public vote, with the money funding long-lasting, but moveable outdoor equipment, that will be used acrossteaching in maths, literacy, art, music and role play.The equipment is specially designed to facilitate play in a safe

environment, and will include musical pieces, tables and waterequipment. All of the equipment selected will aid the health andpersonal development of key stage one pupils.The OneFamily Foundation is a unique customer benefit fund,

provided by the mutual organisation, OneFamily, which intends tomake £5million available to its members over five years to maketheir lives and communities better.For further information about the OneFamily Foundation please

go to foundation.onefamily.com

Great Maths Teaching “Will Take A Decade”A report from the Advisory Council on Mathematics Education(ACME) says that it will take at least ten years before mathsteachers are qualified as well as they should be. The report recommends that teachers should have better

training and higher qualifications. This includes primary teachers,who the report proposes should have maths A-level or equivalent.It also recommends that more maths graduates teach the subject atsecondary level, and if there are none available then students ofeconomics could be encouraged to become maths teachers. However the general secretary of the National Union of

Teachers, Russell Hobby, says that schools should be recruiting nowand that ten years is too long to wait:“The children in the system today won’t see the benefits beforethey leave school. The effectiveness of recruitment needs to beaddressed immediately. For the teachers there in the system today,it’s vital that they have access to proper professional developmentto increase their experience.”

individualised learning programme, and allExplore courses map to the NationalCurriculum in England and the Curriculumfor Excellence in Scotland.

Book a free trial atwww.explorelearning.co.uk. For your localcentres call: Maidenhead 01628 509 570;Slough 01753 362 400 and Camberley01276 406 868.


New Year - New You

Research shows that most peoplestart a new exercise regime inJanuary, with a huge boost in gym

memberships around that time. There’ssomething motivational in having a wholenew year to look ahead to and many of usstart of with great new resolutions.

When you’re a busy mum, when are yougoing to find the time for a fitness regime?Don’t despair, we have a few great ideas.

Preparation is key

Before you start any kind of exerciseroutine, check with your doctor (or

HOW TO START A NEWEXERCISE REGIMEWHEN YOU’RE A BUSYMUM By Sally J. Hall

midwife if you’re pregnant) that it’s OK.Always start with stretches to warm yourmuscles and don’t overdo anything. If youstart to hurt, stop. Start with a shortroutine and increase the time and intensityof your work-out.

Let’s swap

Suggest a swap with your partner or afriend. They have the kids while you go tothe gym, for a swim, for a long walk in thewoods – then do the same for themanother day.

Do what you like

Choose an activity you enjoy. Try out a fewdifferent classes and then pick the one youlike the most. Try to include something thatgets your heart racing, something stretchyand something that involves weights.

Kids come too

Take the kids with you. Go to a local parkwith scooters and bikes and baby in apushchair and walk around the outside ofthe park.

Using baby

Try some exercises at home. Pop in aDVD, do a few exercises and have yourbaby on a play mat next to you.

Quick bursts

Use nap time for a quick burst – one ofthe hottest new fitness trends right now.Do push-ups, use small weights, do squatsand a few yoga poses.

See the next page for some top tips forwhen you return to work.

As soon as Christmas Day is over, holiday and weight lossadvertisements start to appear on the Television.


New Year - New You

To hear about PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIESPlease view our website: capabilityjane.comand register your details. We’d love to hear from you.

Keen to move to apart-time, senior-level role?

Capability Jane is on a mission tocreate the marketplace for qualitypart-time roles

Our team helpsorganisations tosource talentedindividuals on apart-time basisand access amore diverse poolof candidates

There are pros and cons to returning to work and arguments for and against it. Just rememberchildren are resilient and learn by example. The best thing you can do is plan for every eventuality androll with it. The childcare, the meals, the clothes, the transport, the housework, the 'just in case'scenarios. You may think you have all the boxes ticked but…Wrong! Where in the planning have you thought about yourself? It’s time to be selfish. It’s time to find the

women that existed pre-children; the woman who took time to take care of herself, eat right, dresswell, and exercise. So ladies how to we get from here to there? The following action plan will put you on track.

BOSS…I’M BACK!

YOU CAN DO THIS!Banish the Bulge• Star jumps • Quick lunges • Heel Kicks • Jump Squat • Tricep dips• Mountain climbers • Press Ups on your knees • Step-ups • Standing Knee Kicks

Day 1: Take ten minutes to sort your clothes out. Remember your body shape will havechanged, so be ruthless and throw out everything that doesn’t fit. And no, it won’t fit in sixmonths time either, because in six months time you are going to have a new body, just intime for summer.Day 2: Have a look at your body and decide what you like about it and what you wouldlike to change. This change won’t happen overnight, but it’s definitely worth the effort.Day 3: Make time to go shopping for some new clothes. It doesn’t have to cost the earth,and very often just one item of clothing can make all the difference to how you seeyourself. Day 4: Stop making excuses, take 10 minutes a day to banish the bulge. Yes I know itdoesn’t seem like much, but let's start small and achieve this goal consistently.Day 5: Sit down with your partner and discuss the changes that are about to happen, yourfears, your worries and your hopes. Also use this time to book in a regular date night. Yes, Iknow it sounds corny, but you are both worth the effort. Join a babysitting circle.Day 6:Try out the routine before you start work. This will give you time to iron out thekinks. Day 7:Don’t forget to be kind to yourself. Look at everything you have achieved in thelast 18 months, while still remaining relatively sane and remember...

Let's be realistic, the first few weeks returning to work are tough. Youthought the sleepless nights, the endless washing, feeding andentertaining were rough, but seriously things are about to go to anotherlevel! All the plans you put into place are now about to be challengedand work itself will start to feel like a rest. Fitness expert Sarah El-Hawaryfrom Go Figure gives some advice on how to make time for you.

Remember to get advice from your doctor before embarking on post-natal exercise. If you need any help with the exercises, please seekguidance from a fitness professional.

Go Figure offer a variety of classes and PT in Maidenhead to find outmore go to www.gofigure.org.uk


New Year - New You

Pledge to raise a Grand for Brain Tumour Research! Did you know that brain tumours kill more children and adults under theage of 40 than any other cancer? Yet brain tumour research receives just1% of the national spend on cancer research. The blood-brain barrier stops most standard cancer drugs from treating

brain tumours, making them more difficultto combat. Research into this area is beinglead by Professor Geoff Pilkington, leadscientist at one of Brain Tumour Research’scentres of excellence at the University ofPortsmouth. Professor Pilkington is aninternational expert on brain tumours and apioneer in blood-brain barrier research,having created the world's first 'all-human'blood-brain barrier model to help with their studies.Brain Tumour Research has launched the Grand Challenge, a unique

fundraising partnership with the Dr Hadwen Trust. The aim is to jointlyraise 180,000 to fund a three-year research project being led by ProfessorPilkington into the blood brain barrier.You can help by Pledging to Raise a Grand (£1,000) in whatever way you

like, to help fund this crucial research. For further information, visit www.braintumourresearch.org/grandchallenge

New beginner belly dancing classesIf you’re looking for a new way to get fit, whilst having fun andmaking new friends, then bellydancing could be for you. This JanuaryRachel Bennett School of Bellydance is launching more beginnerclasses in Maidenhead, Windsor and Wokingham as well as a brandnew bellydance yoga course in Windsor.Bellydancing celebrates the female form and femininity, whilst

improving fitness. In learning to bellydance, students gain essential"me-time", boost self-confidence, enjoy the health benefits and well-being bellydancing brings.Find out more and book your place or trial lesson at

rachelbellydancer.com

First class gym at Bisham AbbeyThe Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre near Marlow, has a

state-of-the-art gym open to the public. The facility is part of the£7m redevelopment programme at the site. The gym has the latestweights equipment, including Synergymachines, lifting platforms and HammerStrength heavy weights liftingequipment, as well as a steam and saunaroom. Or if the gym isn’t for you,choose from fifty weekly classes,including Yoga and Pilates. Flexiblepayment means that you can choose topay as you go or sign a monthly contract. There is also a great café,tennis courts and excellent sports pitches to train on.Go to bishamabbeynsc.co.uk to check out their latest

membership deals, which start at £24.99 per month.**Subject to a minimum contract

New NHS patients welcome at Moonlight Dental SurgeryGoing to the dentist might not be top of the list of fun familyactivities, but regular visits (at least once a year) will help you tokeep your mouth healthy and avoid future problems. Local dentist practice, Moonlight Dental Surgery in Slough, is

always open to new NHS patients.Free treatment isn’t just for children infull-time education (which includesteens up to age 19). Expectantmothers and nursing mothers (up to ayear after baby was born) can have freedental care, as well as people claimingcertain types of benefits such as JobSeekers, Tax Credits (providing they are given an exemption card).

To find out more call 01753 526301 or go to moonlightdental.co.uk

In Case of Emergency IdentificationHave you ever had that sinking feeling in a crowded public place

that your child has wandered off?

Panic sets in because they have no ID on them and they don’t know yourmobile number, especially when scared and upset?

If YOU OR YOUR CHILD has anAllergy • On any medication • Or have any medical conditionsThey should never leave home without proper Identification!

Orders can be placed ONLINE at www.iceid.co.uk or email Gila on [email protected]

In Case of Emergency Identification

..........Health News.........

Be preparedfor an emergencyDon’t waitfor one to happen

FAMILY FIRST AID COURSE DATES 2016Marlow: 26 Jan, 29 Jan, 18 Mar, 22 Mar, 10 MayWindsor: 21 Jan, 25 Feb, 12 April

T: 07788720612E: [email protected] • www.child-matters.co.uk

£35 per head with £5 discount when quoting Families Magazine

Come & learn new skills. This short course will provideinformation on how to deal with:-• Coping with an emergency • Dealing with an unconscious casualty • Baby/Child/AdultResuscitation • Choking • Head Injuries • Seizures & Febrile Convulsions • Child RelatedConditions (Fever Management, Croup, Anaphylaxis, Respiratory Illness) • Bleeding • BurnsAnd anything you wish to ask ……

On completion of this course you will receive a Certificate of attendance,‘Paediatric First Aid Made Easy’ manual and a laminated wall chart.

13

First Aid

Telephone: 01628 627 586 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Toddler Jacob Jenkins died in hospital inNovember last year, five days after choking on agrape. Unfortunately, Jacob’s death was not anisolated tragedy. Choking is a leading cause ofaccidental death in under-5s and only 2 weeksafter, Thomas Ford choked on a blackberrywhile he was out on a walk with his parents andolder sister near their home in Norfolk.Food is the most common cause of choking. Asa parent and carer it’s vital to learn aboutchoking prevention as soon as possible.

Choking PreventionChoking can be prevented. Be alert for small objects. Check regularlyfor small items that children could find and putin their mouths. The following are commonhousehold choking hazards:• Latex Balloons• Coins• Buttons• Marbles, small balls or ball-shaped objects•Toys with small parts or toys that can besqueezed to fit entirely into a child's mouth• Pen or marker lids• Small button-type batteries• Refrigerator magnets• Pieces of dog food

Risky Foods for Young ChildrenFood accounts for over 50% of chokingepisodes. Children younger than 4 years of ageshould not be given round, firm foods unlessthey have been chopped into small pieces. Thefollowing foods are common choking hazards:• Hot dogs and sausages• Nuts and seeds

HOW TO PREVENT YOURCHILD FROM CHOKINGBy Clare Street from Child Matters

Babies and toddlers are curious and explore the world by putting thingsin their mouths – it’s a natural part of their development. Children undereight years have much narrower windpipes than adults, and are stilllearning to chew, swallow and breathe in the right order, which makesthem far more susceptible to choking.

• Chunks of meat and cheese•Whole grapes and fruit chunks, like apples• Hard, gooey, or sticky sweets• Popcorn• Chunks of peanut butter• Raw vegetables, such as carrots• Chewing gum• Marshmallows

Prevention TipsLearn first aid for choking and CPR(cardiopulmonary resuscitation).Always supervise mealtimes.Children should never run, walk, play or liedown with food in their mouths.Cut food for young children into small piecesBe aware of older children's actions. Chokingincidents can occur when an older child givesdangerous foods, toys or small objects to ayounger child.Avoid toys with small parts and keep smallhousehold items out of the reach of infants andyoung children.Check the minimum age recommendations ontoy packages. Age guidelines reflect the safety ofa toy based on potential choking hazards as wellas children's development.Be aware that latex balloons pose a chokingrisk to both young children and older children.Do not allow young children to play with coins.

Know the signs of chokingA person who is choking may coughcontinuously until the food or liquid is expelledfrom the throat or airway. However, in somecases the object, food, or liquid becomes lodgedin the throat, cutting off the air supply.

A person who is choking with a full airwayobstruction may display the followingemergency signs:• unable to speak• unable to cough• unable to make noise• unable to breathe• blue tint to the lips, skin, or nails from lack ofoxygen• Become unresponsive and show no signs ofbreathing.For local first aid courses go to: www.child-matters.co.uk

If your child is losing consciousnessor is unable to breathe, do not leavehim/her but shout and call for helpimmediately1. Give 5 back blows. Laid down with thehead below the chest. Give 5 sharp slaps,between the shoulder blades. (1a & 1b)2. Give 5 chest thrusts. Push firmly in thecentre of the breastbone. Use 2 fingers fora baby and the palm of your hand for achild. (2a)3. Try 5 abdominal thrusts (pictured)instead of chest thrusts if the child is toobig to pass over your lap (do NOT do thisin babies). Push firmly inwards andupwards in a ‘J’ motion, just below theribs. This can be done standing (2b).

+

1a 1b

2a2b


House & Home

According to Gas Safe and NHS stats:

• Faulty appliances caused 40 deaths andover 200 hospital admissions last year.• 5.5 million Brits fail to get an annual gassafety check.•There were 67,000 gas emergency callouts last year in the UK.• 1 in 6 gas appliances were found to beunsafe (based on 142,000 homes).• 28% of people didn’t even check if theengineer was Gas Safe registered.

Carbon Monoxide PoisoningCarbon monoxide is produced when fuelssuch as gas, oil, coal or wood do not burnfully. When a fire burns in an enclosedspace, the oxygen is gradually used up andreplaced with carbon dioxide. The fuel isunable to burn fully and releases carbonmonoxide.After breathing in carbon monoxide, it

enters your bloodstream and mixes withhaemoglobin (the part of red blood cells

IS YOUR HOMEGAS SAFE?

that carry oxygen around your body), toform carboxyhaemoglobin. When thishappens, the blood is no longer able tocarry oxygen, and this lack of oxygencauses the body’s cells and tissue to die.

SymptomsCarbon monoxide is difficult to detectbecause it has no smell, taste or colour.This means you can inhale it withoutrealising.

The 6 main symptoms to look out for are:

• Headaches• Dizziness• Nausea• Breathlessness• Collapse• Loss of Consciousness

If you googled these symptoms then youwould find a number of illnesses thatmatched. However if you only feel like thiswhen you are at home, and others feel

these effects whilst in your home, then itmay be carbon monoxide poisoning.

PreventionRed Van plumbers have some simpleadvice:

• Install a carbon monoxide alarm.• Have an annual boiler service.•Always use a Gas Safe registeredengineer when working on gas appliances.

Please visitwww.redvanplumbers.co.uk/gas-safe toread the full article that includes what todo in an emergency, plus info on illegalfitters, fire and explosions.

Faulty or poorly maintained gas appliances, such asboilers, can have disastrous and deadly consequences.

If you’re unsure or would like some advice,then contact them on 01628 533550 [email protected] the Red Van Plumbers, yourPlumbing and Heating company since 1948.


Plan a Party

DROP LATE, COLLECT EARLYThe thought of a sleepover is bearable if youknow there’s an end to it all. Make it clear atthe point of invite when your hospitality beginsand ends. I’ve found a late-afternoon drop –coinciding with teatime – is best with a pick-upbetween 9am and 10am. This means yourexhausted guests, now suffering from anadditive hangover, can have their post-sleepovermeltdown in the comfort of their own home.You’re left with a full day to scrape meltedchocolate and squashed Haribo from your beigecarpet. HAVE A PLANDon’t imagine a handful of eight year olds willbe able to occupy themselves without incident.They won’t. Well they will, but rest assured itwill end in a lot of tired tears. Follow teatimewith a fun activity – karaoke, Wii fun or a boardgame – before a DVD to take you through untilbedtime. I’ve heard reports of parents puttingtheir children through an obstacle course in thegarden prior to heading upstairs to maximiseexhaustion but you may feel that’s a step toofar.CALL IN THE CAVALRYTurn to our party directory from page 16 to 19for some additional party and entertainmentideas. You could combine the sleepover with a

Find us on Facebook - Redroofs PartiesE: [email protected] | W: www.redroofs.co.uk/parties | T: 01628 674092 Redroofs School for the Performing Arts, 26 Bath Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4JT

Children's Parties at the School for West End Stars!

emes include Frozen, Matilda, Annie and more!

How to SURVIVE A SLEEPOVER PARTYLove them or hate them, at some point you’ll be asked to hosta sleepover. Sarah Butters looks at how best to survive them.

crafty art session or have a living room discowith a party entertainer. Why not take them allto a Trampoline arena for a big jump session toensure they are all too tired to stay up late!PREPARE FOR LATE-NIGHT LEAVERSThere’s a pretty high chance that one of yourguests will want to leave. The reality of a nightspent away from home can be a little too muchfor some children. Be warned, homesickness iscatching and once one begins to wobble, youcould find your other guests follow. Make sureyou have the parents’ contact details for allyour guests if you do need to make a late-nightcollection call.KEEP IT SIMPLEThink camping indoors and you’ve got theperfect sleepover. One of my daughter’sfavourite nights away from home saw sevenchildren sleeping top to toe, in sleeping bags onthe bedroom floor of their friend. Not a king-size Aerobed in sight. ADMIT DEFEATYou aren’t going to be able to stay up lateenough to check your guests are allasleep. Their main aim is to out ‘stay up’the adults in the house so in many waysreminding them you’re still awake onlymakes for a later bedtime. Lay out theground rules when you say your final (ish)

goodnight and leave them to it. Some will fallasleep, some will chat and only in the veryworst case scenario will they raid your sweetcupboards in the early hours to replenish theirsleep-starved bodies. Removal of electricaldevices is a good move – especially in tweenagegirls – as the cyber world can be an inviting butfrightening place in the small hours of themorning.KEEP YOUR DIARY CLEARPlan nothing for the following day. You will haveslept like a meerkat balancing on a branch. Yourchild will have crashed late and woken with thelark. In short, your family is fit for nothing andplanning even the most straightforward activityis doomed to failure. Then, as night falls, raise aglass to the fact you survived your firstsleepover. Like childbirth, you’ll need some timeto forget the painbefore you doit all again…


Plan a Party

ARTSPIRATION SCHOOL OF DRAWINGAND PAINTING offers Arty Birthday parties forchildren aged 5+. Parents not only host a lovelyparty but their contributions also help to make adifference. All profits from the Arty Parties are sentto their charity wing, Soham, which contributes toa unique social cause each year. Parties range fromCanvas Painting, Mosaic, Fabric Painting, Sand Art,Card Making and Recycled Art, to suit a wide rangeof interests, ages and budgets. For moreinformation please visit artspiration.co.uk or [email protected]

...Party News...

BASIL AND CREW. Mobile Farm, bring amini mobile farmyard to your home or venue,complete with fencing and an assortment ofanimals, such as goats, sheep, ducks, chickens andShetland ponies, for your party- involving pethandling, feeding and grooming. They also offereducational and fun school visits either full farmor ‘3 billy goat gruff ’ day, nursing homes, specialneeds, fetes and fun days. 01628 821145 or07721 422554; www.basilandcrew.co.uk

BIG ON BOUNCING. Hire a Bouncy Castles,Slides, Disco Domes, Foot Pool, Go Karts, Softplay, Sumo Suits and Body Zorbs. Indoor andoutdoor hire. Free delivery, set up and collection.Free cancellation in the event of bad weather.01628 410736/07926 751243;www.bigonbouncing.co.uk.BRAY LAKE WATERSPORTS. Canoeing,Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Dinghy Sailing andWindsurfing. Two hours of fun on the water for8-15 year olds. Adults welcome too. They alsohave their own Live Combat Zone. (see page 18)

PERFORM YOURFAVOURITE MUSICALWITH REDROOFSPARTIESA party invitation toCinderella's Magical Ball, aSupercalafragalistic MaryPoppins Party, a Lion KingParty for all young cubs whojust can't wait to be King! Allthese are brand new titlesadded by popular demand to the highly successful top end RedroofsMusical Theatre Parties, for children ages 4-11 years. Their alreadypopular Parties include Frozen, Matilda and Annie. With brightcostumes provided and the best directing team in the business, yourchild and guests will put on a musical show for a proud audience, witha party tea in a decorated and beautifully themed party room. Andguess who is waiting in the wings? Redroofs can provide a real life Elsa,Matilda, Cinderella, Annie or Mary Poppins who will come and performwith you and your friends. Beautiful party bags also available. All youneed to bring is your little showbiz stars and a cake! Exclusive use of 2state of the art studios. Free onsite parking. Easy online booking. Pleasego to www.redroofs.co.uk/parties or email [email protected] formore information.

Parties for girls aged 5-15yrs

* Pamper Parties (3 age categories) * Pre sleepover party * Pamper and Cupcake Decorating parties * Pamper and Paparazzi Photo Fun parties

A range of packages for your princess and her friends.

Contact Clare: 07786 960148www.minimeparties.co.uk

[email protected]

HIGH WYCOMBE TRAMPOLINE PARK OFFERS GREATPARTY OPTIONSRush opened its doors onDecember 11 after afantastic VIP launch partywith Olympic gold medalistDenise Lewis, tumbling starLucie Colebeck and anenergetic display from theChiltern Cheetahs. As wellas jumping, foam pit anddodgeball, they offer afantastic range of parties forchildren and adults aged 5+.They can host parties of 10to 40 guests and you canchoose from an Open Jump;Dodgeball and TumblingPackage. All parties includefood (choice of 3 menus),

dedicated party hostand room, non-slip

Rush socks and unlimited squash and water. Please [email protected] with any queries. RushUK.com

It’s Party Time! ....Our party directory has all the ingredients youneed to cook up the perfect celebration foryour child. You can choose from trampolining,arts and crafts and an animation party, hire abouncy castles or host a musical theatre orpamper party! (when you ring please don’tforget to say you saw it in Families magazine).

Photo: Andy Newbold Photography


Plan a Party

For Little Kickers & Little Rugby classes inMaidenhead, Bourne End, Henley, Marlow &Stokenchurch. Call 01628 526 584 or email

[email protected] Little Kickers classes at Ascot, Slough,Windsor and Stoke Poges call 07412 166 686

or email [email protected] for Birthday Party entertainment information

Classes in Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley & CharvilCall Emma on 07935 248749 or email [email protected]

Classes in Windsor, Ascot, Sunningdale & Farnham RoyalCall Kate on 01753 830162 or email: [email protected]

BBlloossssoommBBaalllleett

BBlloossssoomm BBaalllleettis about having lots of fun and making new friends.

Classes throughout the week, including weekends, in Windsor, Bray and Maidenhead.

For a FREE taster classor for further information

please contact Lucy:

[email protected]

Party Directory

Bringing all the fun of the farm to your school, Home, Private Party, FamilyFunday 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 pricese: [email protected] • www.basilandcrew.co.uk

01628821145

07721 422554

Do you

have to

tal

SQUISH

BOSH?

Funparty gameswith meaning

Call Pete on 07721 422554 or 01628 821145e:[email protected] • www.basilandcrew.co.uk

• Kids Art Clubs • Pottery Painting • Adult Art Classes & Workshops • Corporate Meetings & Events

• Parties

BATTLEFIELD LIVE. This fast paced action game for anyone from 8yrsupwards uses advanced combat technology that uses none ballistic, infra redeye safe guns. Outdoor BBQ and picnic area also available for hire. 01628638860; www.braylake.com.How about throwing an animation, sewing or puppet-making party? BUSYBUTTONS Creative Studio offers a unique experience making animationfilms with your friends, creating puppets and staging a performance, sewing,crafting and more for any theme you fancy. 3 -14 year-olds further yourinterest by joining our courses for sewing, animation, art, illustration, filming,editing, puppet and prop making, or even gain an ArtsAward all in Windsor.Email: [email protected], 07952418212; www.busybuttons.orgCANDLE BY PARTIES– offer a wonderful opportunity to make hand-poured fragranced candles in individual melters, adding dyes and fragranceoils. As the candles are setting children decorate candle holders andpackaging with paint, glitter and pretty gems. Children take home a partybag filled with all the lovely candles they have made. Parties also available foradults plus company parties and team building workshops. Tel: 07771851435 or 01628 947224; www.candlebyparties.co.ukCHARTERS LEISURE CENTRE. Book a Nerf war, multi-sports orbouncy castle package. 01344 628686.

CHEEKY CHARLIES. One hour in the soft play area with one host and avisit from Cheeky Charlie, followed by use of a private room. Two options:Exclusive Hire for up to 30 children and Cheeky Time, or during publicopening times for up to 20 children. Maximum age: 10. Magnet LeisureCentre, Maidenhead. 01628 685338 COURT GARDEN LEISURE COMPLEX (Marlow) Turn yourchildren’s party into an exciting day to remember. There’s no mess, no fussand they entertain your children and their friends, to ensure they have a funparty. Packages include Pool or Sports Parties. All parties (excluding poolparties) are run on a Saturday or Sunday. For further information call 01628405 200.COX GREEN LEISURE CENTRE. Bouncy Castle Parties for childrenaged 4-7 and Rugby or Football Sports Parties for children age 6+. 01753778599 EVREHAM SPORTS CENTRE. They offer a wide range of affordable,themed birthday party packages for kids under 16 years old. Parties include:bouncy castle, soft play, outdoor football and basketball. We also do all theprep and tidying up, so you can just relax and enjoy the day! 01753 672610.FLUTTERBY PARTIES. Tailored to suit the wishes of boys and girls of allages. 2 hours of fun with 3 party hosts. Traditional games, catwalks, danceshows, karaoke and prizes. They also do nail art, hair glitter and curls,colourful makeup, facepaint, temporary tattoos, hair colour sprays andmuch, much more. Dressing up box for under-5’s! Call Zowie on07812440297 or ring Janet 07768317625; www.flutterbyprobeauty.comFUNKY FACES professional face-painting and glitter tattoos for partiesand corporate events. Ideal for children aged 3 years and above. CoversBucks, Berks and surrounding areas. Contact by email:[email protected] or phone 07976 671309 to make your booking.GENEVIEVE’S GALLERY. Paint-a-plate parties for all ages. You can alsobring your own drink and food. Call 01784 430516 oremail:[email protected]; genevievesgallery.co.uk. GIGGLES PARTY SHOP supply Party Decorations, themed table topartyware. Balloons for all occasions, venue decor available to suiteveryone's tastes and budgets. Party Bag Fillers. Contact 01628 530923 formore details go to www.gigglespartyshop.co.uk or check out theirFacebook page; www.facebook.com/GigglesPartyShop. JUMP IN TRAMPOLINE ARENA, a unique space filled with 120interconnected trampolines, providing exhilarating and unforgettabletrampolining experiences for fun-loving people of all ages. Parties from £150for a group of 10, including food, 1 hour of jumping, grip socks, party host,set-up and clean-up, free jump pass for birthday girl/boy. Contact01753387080 email [email protected] or visit www.gojumpin.comThe HANDS-ON ART STUDIO organises parties for groups of up to20 guests, for all ages & occasions: children, families, Brownies/Cubs, Hens,corporate office or teambuilding & more. All-inclusive prices: materials &equipment, professional guidance & instruction, glazing & firing of potteryitems and studio party decorations. Catering can also be arranged for atruly hassle-free experience. Printable invitations available on the website.Discounts available for groups of 10 or more - do call Janet for moredetails: 01753 206265; or please go to www.hands-onartadventures.co.ukand click on PartiesLANGLEY LEISURE CENTRE. Swimming parties on Saturdays. 08450262 466; www.absolutely-parties.co.ukLITTLE KICKERS. The pre-school soccer club runs one-hour footballparties. The price includes football coaching, party games, medals and atrophy for the birthday boy/girl. For parties in Maidenhead, Marlow, Henleyand Bourne End call Ben on 01628 526584 and in Windsor, Slough & Ascot,call Sam on 07412 166686; www.littlekickers.co.uk LONGRIDGE. An outdoor activity centre based on the River Thames thatprovides action-packed parties with water themes. Parties can include anyof Longridge water or land activities, such as raft building, climbing, giantorbs, go Lazer Tag, bell boats and kayaking.Min age 8 years. Call03303030101 or email [email protected] For a full list of Longridgeactivities visit the website www.alfvillages.org.uk. THE LOOK OUT DISCOVERY CENTRE. The centre runs two hourparties (10-20 children) for 5-12 year olds. Party goers get to visit theexciting hands-on science and discovery exhibition with a member of staffand meet the mascot owl Eric. Party includes birthday party invitations anda present for the party child. The parties can be catered or self-catered.Cost per head: £7.50 (self-catering) and£12.15 (cold food). Go towww.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be for more information or phone 01344354400. MAD ACADEMY. Themed or traditional high-energy music and danceparties for children 1-6 years. Songs, dances, games with props plus fantasticmusic, run by a party leader experienced in preschool music classes. (Thegrown-ups have fun too!). For Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley & Charvil CallEmma on 07935 248749 or email [email protected] ForWindsor, Ascot, Sunningdale & Farnham Royal Call Kate on 01753 830162or email: [email protected] www.madacademy.com MAGNET LEISURE CENTRE: Over-6’s, Water Walkers – Max 12children, Indoor Football, Multi sports, Trampolining, Inflatable obstaclecourse. Roller Disco Parties (public max 15 children) or Exclusive RollerDisco Party, over-5s, max 40 children. Premium Parties: Charlie’s GalleonAdventure, soft play area, plus two party hosts over 3’s max 30 children andGo Kids Karting Party, 3-9yrs, max 15 children, includes: 4 karts, 2 partyhosts. Dart Tag parties for ages 6+. 01628 685333


MARLOW CLUB’s exclusive Crèche PartyVenue – available Saturday and Sunday from12pm. Please contact Carol for moreinformation on 01628475709 or [email protected] or visit theirwebsite www.themarlowclub.co.uk MESSY MONETS – Creative parties for boys& girls aged 3+. Choose a theme, make, paint &create with your friends. Your own personalparty plan with your choice of products – from3D canvases, pottery money boxes, bracelets,suncatchers and much, much more. All itemstaken home in a personalised party bag designedby each child. Contact Melissa on 07974 113434,[email protected] or visitwww.messymonets.co.uk orwww.facebook.com/Messy MonetsMINI ME! Parties for girls aged 5-15yrs. Arange of parties for all ages, Pamper Parties,Cupcake Decorating Parties and PaparazziParties (Photo fun!). All parties combinepampering and activities and last 2 hours withlots of fun to be had by all. Please call Clare on07786 960148 or visit www.minimeparties.co.ukfor more details.MONTEM LEISURE CENTRE. AbsolutelyTen Pin, bowling party, Absolutely Ice, ice skatingparty, Laser Combat, a live gaming experience,Soft Play parties and the Jungle Run. AbsolutelyKarting, karting parties for children as young aseight (Maidenhead & Basingstoke). 08450 262466. www.absolutely-parties.co.ukMOO MUSIC MOO DOO. Moosical partyentertainment to suit your requirements atcompetitive prices. Let lovable Moo Croo fillyour party with singing, dancing, party games,parachute fun, puppets and bubbles. Available inyour home or choice of venue. For SL4enquiries contact Gemma at Moo MusicWindsor [email protected] 330965. For SL5 enquiries contact Kateat Moo Music Ascot [email protected] 457860. www.moo-music.co.ukODDS FARM PARK. Wooburn Common, nrBeaconsfield, Parties include entry to the farm,hire of a fully decorated party room, food andparty bags. After-school parties are alsoavailable. 01628 520188; www.oddsfarm.co.uk.PERFORM PARTIES. High-energy partiescombining drama, dance and singing with fungames, stories and improvisations for 4-7s, and7-12s. Party leaders arrive with colourfulcostumes, props and music to create a fantasyland with themes for all ages, including Mermaidsand Pirates, Superheroes, Fairytale Forest,Mamma Mia and Peppa Pig. 0207 255 910,[email protected]; www.perform.org.ukPERSONALLY PEARL Creative parties witha local jewellery designer where children makebracelets, necklaces or earrings to take home.Personalised invitations, party bags and allmaterials are provided. Minimum of six children,suitable for 5+ yrs Call Lena on 07764759345or email [email protected] PHOENIX GYMNASTICS. Under-5'sPlayGym Parties. An hour's free play in the fullyequipped gym with half an hour allowed forfood for up to 30 children. Available on Sundaysonly and discounts available for members.Please call 01628 778881, [email protected] or see our websitewww.phoenixgym.co.uk for more details.PHOENIX FLYERS TRAMPOLINE CLUB.Parties available on Saturday afternoons at EastBerkshire College, Langley for 4-14 year olds.Limited to 8 children and room available forfood afterwards. Please call 01628 778881 oremail [email protected] more details.REDROOFS PARTIES. Our highly successfultop end Musical Theatre Parties are run by aprofessional, experienced team, who provide ahappy and motivating Musical TheatreExperience with a performance for parents!

Themes include FROZEN, MATILDA, CINDERELLA,ANNIE and more! Magical Dressing Up Box forchildren for their performance! Beautifulthemed room decoration and party bagsavailable. Redroofs can provide an Elsa, Annie,Matilda, Cinderella and Mary Poppins to performwith your star performers. Exclusive use of 2state of the art, mirrored studios at Redroofs.For children ages 4-11 years. To find out moreemail [email protected] or call 01628674092. Easy online bookingwww.redroofs.co.uk/partiesRUSH UK TRAMPOLINE PARK in HighWycombe offers party packages for guests of 10to 40 people. Starting at £15.50 per child. Youcan choose from an Open Jump, Dodgeball andTumbling Package. All parties include food(choice of 3 menus), dedicated party host androom, non-slip Rush socks and unlimited squashand water. Please email [email protected] any queries. RushUK.comSHOWSTOPPER PARTIES: Fun-filled andaction-packed Dance, Drama and Singing Partiesfor children of all ages. Showstopper brings youchildren's parties you will want to use again andagain! Run by Mairi, a performer and children'sDirector for London's West End, for a trulyoutstanding and unique party. Themes includeMamma Mia, Perfect Popstar, Mini Musicals,Princess & Pirates ... and many more! Call Mairion 07885150034 or visitwww.showstopperuk.com SIMA'S ACTION KIDS. Entertainer SimaStannage’s parties are structured, fun, fast-paced.Using toys, props and music appropriate to theage group. For under-6s: singing, dancing, partygames, action stories and rhymes. For under-11s:dance parties with funky routines, singing andgames. For 8-11 year olds, Sima's Disco-Bop &Karaoke parties. Party bags and face painting asadditional extras. 07956 993439.www.simasactionkids.com. SPECIAL OFFER:15% discount on any new bookings made before1st March 2016.SQUISHBOSH, isn’t just a fun name it is aword made up of qualities that the partyentertainers look for in the children at the party(aged 5-12), which then forms the basis of theawards at the end of every party. Squishbosh isa fun sports event but with a twist, it’s a mixbetween, Total Wipeout, It’s a Knockout andmore original sports games. All games must beplayed outside. Call Pete on 07721 422554 or 01628 821145; www.basilandcrew.co.uk STAGECOACH PARTIES. Themed partiesfor up to 30 children with lots of singing, dancingand games. 2-hour parties for 4–6 yrs, 2 hrs for7–10 yrs. Invitations, prizes, balloons all included.Can also supply extras such as face painting andparty bags. 0118 9712870 (Maidenhead);www.stagecoach-parties.co.uk. TWINKLE TOTS. Fun birthday ballet partiesfor 2 yr olds up. Get the opportunity to dancewith professional ballerinas. Ballerina turns up atyour party in a pink tutu. Themed partiestailored to your child's desires. Ballet themedparty bags and even pointe shoe pinata's! BoysPeter Pan and Pirates parties also available. Call07828 857061 or [email protected]. Go online tolook at testimonials and photos from previouscustomers; www.twinkletotsdance.com WINDSOR LEISURE CENTRE. BouncyCastle parties 4-7 years. Various Sports Parties6-12 years. Over-8s: Netball/Basketball. Buffetfood can be provided. Self-catering room hire£30. Wave Parties over-8s, swim/ hot meal max15 children, £9.50 per head. Pool available forexclusive hire weekend evening between 6.30-8.15pm for 8 years+. 01753 778599

To view the online version go towww.familiestveast.co.uk/partydirectory2016. alldetails were correct when we went to printDecember 2015.



A little knowledge is a dangerousthing…How well do you know the other family?Are there areas of their life you finddifficult to cope with? If you’re a neat freakand they are the kind to ignore mould onthe milk bottle – or the other way around– you’re probably not going to get alongwith each others’ standards ofhousekeeping. Do you know what theirpolitics are? And do your children getalong?

All good friendsYour partners also need to get on and youneed to be friends as a foursome. Thegrown-ups need to be united if there aredisputes between the children. Spend aday together in the run-up to the holiday

and have the children on a sleep-over toiron out problems before you go.

Set the rulesMake some ground rules. Set a budget anddecide how you are going to share theprice of the house and shopping once youare away. It’s best to share everythingequally (easy if your families are the samesize, otherwise work it outproportionately). Talk this all throughbefore you go, as the last thing you want isan argument at the supemarket check-out!

Doing the houseworkThe chores will also have to be sharedequally, so that nobody has to do all thecooking or all the washing up. Take it inturns and eat out a couple of times so thatyou all get a break.

Us-timeAs there are other grown-ups with you,this would be an ideal opportunity to havesome time alone with your partner. Take itin turns to look after all the children, sothat each couple has some personal space.

A room of one’s ownMake sure there’s room for you all to havesome personal space. Even the best offriends can end up getting on each others’nerves at times. Letting the kids sleep inthe same room may backfire too, as theywill be so excited that they may not get tosleep before the small hours.

So while there may be some things toconsider before you embark on a holidaywith friends, there are many advantages.You can afford somewhere much nicerthan you might otherwise have done, youcan share chores and babysitting and youcan forge lifelong friendships between boththe adults and the children. With a littleforethought, this will truly be a holiday toremember!

Travel Special

IT TAKES TWO...By Sally J Hall

It seems like a great idea when you and a friend aredaydreaming about your next holiday and it turns out youboth want to hire a cottage in Cornwall. If you want to goaway with both your families and share the costs of theholiday, read our tips to make this a holiday to remember –not a nightmare.


Travel Special

Tour the North East coast by bikeSaddle skedaddle’sNorthumberland Coast tour isa 5-day trip aimed at families –a gentle ride taking in thearea’s beautiful coastline andancient castles at your ownpace. Adult prices, including

luggage transfer and b&b, startat £430 pp, Children £258.skedaddle.co.uk

EXCITING HOLIDAYS IN THE UKEXCITING HOLIDAYS IN THE UK By Hannah Hunter

For many of us, childhood holidays in the UKmeant soggy camping trips and endless historicmonuments. These days things have changed -there are loads of adventurous holidays aroundBritain, to suit adrenalin junkies of all ages.Whether it’s kayaking in Welsh rapids, abseilingdown a Derbyshire rock face or bird watchingfrom on high in a Norfolk tree house, theholidays we’ve selected here cater for all levelsof risk taking!

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Take the family climbingLearn to climb with a private climbing instructor in the rugged PeakDistrict. Pure Outdoor will teach you basic climbing skills and techniques,and can help you find local accommodation. Day courses start from £189for a private instructor, and £79 for group climbing. pureoutdoor.co.uk

Paddle through Herefordshire in style Canoe the River Wye in Herefordshire with Tipi Adventure, and stay in aluxury Tipi. You can also try different activities during your stay, such asarchery, pony trekking and nature trails. From £1060 for a family of 4 for 6nights (4 days canoeing). tipiadventure.co.uk

Try a luxury base for your adventuresIf camping in a tent isn’t your thing, why not try GlamperRV – an uber stylish, self-drive ‘hotel on wheels’. The luxuriousvehicle has leather seats, qualitymattresses, integrated fridge freezerand a separate bathroom. There’s noneed for an electrical ‘hook-up’ – theNespresso machine and hairdryer, andyour own mobile devices, will work atanytime, anywhere. There’s evenenough space to store 4 bikes and dryout wet kit in the garage. From £549for 3 nights, www.GlamperRV.co.uk

Go wild on Cornwall’s southern coastlineHalf day family activities withLizard Adventure (8+) includecoasteering (travelling the rockycoastline, jumping into the sea andexploring caves), as well as standup paddle boarding and seakayaking. Younger kids can tryBush Craft – making dens, lightingfires and whittling wood. Pricesfrom £30 (Bush Craft) and £45for all other activities, with afamily discount of £150. Lizardadventure.co.uk

Explore Dorset on horsebackSet in the beautiful BlandfordForest, Loose Reins can providebeginner lessons or tailor-madeguided trails for confident riders.The saddle sore (or riding-averse)can rest up in their cedar cabinsor canvas lodges, which includehot showers, loos, and cosywood-burners, and outdoor firepits. Group riding lessons are £42

per hour, trail-riding starts at £60 for 1.5 hours (group discount available),accommodation from £110 per night. loosereins.co.uk

Try a tree-top stayWho hasn’t wanted to sleep intheir own treehouse? Escape fromthe world at West Lexham in yourwoodland retreat, without givingup home comforts – eachbeautiful house or ‘temple’contains a log stove, bathroomand kitchen. If you can tearyourself away, there’s plenty to doin the surrounding area of NorthNorfolk. From £225 for a short break, westlexham.org

Windsor Montessori Houseof ChildrenProviding development for life

Newly opened in early November 2015We provide care from 8am to 6pm for babies, infants and children - from 6months to 6 years - We are open 50 weeks of the year. You will find us inthe stunningly renovated Crown Estate building in Old Windsor, oppositethe Windsor Farm Shop.Now taking registrations for babiesand infants

Tel: 01344 8445924 Datchet Road, Old Windsor, SL4 2RQwindsormontessorihouseofchildren.co.uk

Daily throughout January & February FREEADMISSION INTO THE SAVILL GARDEN SavillGardens, Wick Lane, Englefield Green, Surrey, TW20 0UU.01784 435544.Free admission into The Savill Gardenallowing you to enjoy the variety of beautiful and fragrantplants that thrive in the winter months. The garden isopen from 10am to 4.30pmin winter with last entryat 4pm. www.theroyallandscape.co.ukEvery weekend in January and February CRAZYENTERTAINERS AND ANIMAL FUN Odds FarmPark, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX. 01628 520 188.Every weekend in January, February and March 2016 plusdaily during February half term and the Easter holidaysjoin in with the madness and mayhem of Odds FarmPark’s Crazy Entertainers. With several shows daily, all theextra fun is included in entry! Meet and feed the newspring lambs as well. www.oddsfarm.co.ukDaily until April 16 WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHEROF THE YEAR 2016. The Natural History Museum,Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD 020 7942 5011 Visitthe Natural History Museum's world-renowned newannual exhibition to see the best wildlife photographs on

the planet. 10am to 5.30pm. Tickets from £6.75.www.nhm.ac.ukDaily until February 28WILDLIFE UP CLOSETring Natural History Museum, Akeman Street, Tring,HP23 6AP. 020 7942 6171. A chance to see highlights fromthe Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2015, celebratingthe outstanding diversity of the natural world, fromintimate portraits to dramatic landscapes at the NaturalHistory Museum’s outpost in Tring. Amateur andprofessional photographers push the boundaries of visualstorytelling and technical innovation to deliver anarresting vision of nature. www.nhm.ac.uk/tringWeekends until February 7 FAMILY WEEKENDACTIVITIESThe London Wetlands Centre, QueenElizabeth, Barnes, London, SW13 9WT. 020 8409 4400.Nature activities and crafts for families. 9am-4pm.Admission fees apply. www.wwt.org.uk Thursday January 7 BIRD FEEDERSTring NaturalHistory Museum, Akeman Street, Tring, HP23 6AP. 0207942 6171. Make a feeder, 30 minute workshop, all ages.11am & 2pm / £2. www.nhm.ac.uk/tringThursday January 7 STORIES, RHYMES ANDCRAFT Binfield Library, Benetfeld Road, Binfield,Berkshire, RG42 4JZ 01344 306663. Drop-in, the libraryopens at 9am for refreshments and the activities start at

9.30am - stories, rhymes and craft on the first Thursday ofevery month. 9.30am-10:30am. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/activitiesforpreschoolchildrentimesandplacesSaturday January 2 to Sunday 10 CINDERELLATheatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor, SL4 1PSBox Office: 01753 853 888. Aided by the silly but loveableButtons and a Fairy Godmother carefully watching over,Cinderella dreams of happiness. Starring Kevin Cruise,Steven Blakeley and Basil Brush! In a dazzling productionpacked with glamour and glitz, from the opening song tothe happy ever after ending, scenery that sets the stagealive, music, dance and infectious comedy.www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.ukSaturdays in January MEDIEVAL MAYHEMWindsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1NJ. 020 7766 7304. Goback in time to the Middle Ages and join us in the MoatRoom for art and craft activities. Have fun trying on someof the vast array of medieval costumes and fantasticreplica armour that will be on display in the room. 11am-3pm. Usual admission charges. Free with Advantage card.www.royalcollection.org.ukSunday January 3 ETON COLLEGE NATURALHISTORY MUSEUM Slough Road, Eton, SL4 6DW.01753 671000. The museum is opened in 1875 to housethe Thackeray Collection of British Birds and has been

What’s OnPlease email [email protected] with any events.

Enjoy free entry to the Savill Garden,Windsor Great Park, in January & February

Wildlife Photographer of the Year – see highlightsfrom the 2015 winners at NHM Tring

Story Den at Norden Farm on January 10 and February 7

Science and discovery fun - over 90 activities.

Familes

Bring this advert to get one free .*tluda gniyap lluf eno htiw dlihc

Valid until 2/5/16*Terms and conditions apply.

16 January - 2 May 2016Shows run at weekends and school holidays. Age 3+

The Slime Show

The Look Out Discovery CentreNine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW Tel: 01344 354400www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

Open 10am - 5pm every day

Be Amazed...The Look Out Discovery Centre


JANUARY

What’s OnCompiled by Siobhan NewmanEvent times and dates do change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.

Snow Maiden ballet at the Wycombe Swanon January 21

Learn all about Slime at the Lookout DiscoveryCentre's new weekend show, from January 16

Join in with the RSPB's birdwatch on January 30

We are a super-friendly Ofsted registered daynursery providing high quality childcare forbabies from three-months-old to children up tothe age of five set within the bright, modernsurroundings of Windsor Leisure Centre.

To find out more about our excellent new childcare facility and meet our team:Call: 01753 855543 • Email: [email protected]

Visit: www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk

Open for 51 weeks a year!


located in its present site since 1895. It is Berkshire’s onlydedicated natural history museum and now houses over16,000 specimens. This family friendly museum is openevery Sunday from 2.30pm-5pm and at other times byarrangement with the curator. Admission is free,donations optional. etonnhm.comSunday January 3 TOY LIBRARY Highview, 6 NorthRoad, Maidenhead, SL6 1PL. The toy sharing initiativeinvites all accompanied children each Wednesday from10am-noon, and on the first Sunday of each month from3-5pm. www3.rbwm.gov.ukSaturday January 9 COMMUNITY CRAFTMARKET Bourne End Library, Wakeman Road, BourneEnd, SL8 5SX. 01628 533222. Variety of local crafters &food producers. 10am - 1pm. Free entry.www.beccmark.co.ukSaturdays during Term Time BUSY BUTTONSCREATIVE STUDIO offer various creative coursesincluding: ‘BE ARTY’ CLUBArt & illustration for ages4-7 year. ‘BEHIND THE SCENES’Animation anddesign course for 7-14 year olds. ‘SEW ARTY’ CLUB.Sewing and textiles for 6-8 and 8-15 years. ART &SPANISH COURSE - Learn Spanish the Creative Wayfor 3-6 years. Childcare Vouchers accepted, discountsavailable. Location Upton House School, 115 St. Leonard'sRoad, Windsor, SL4 3DF. 07952418212www.busybuttons.orgSaturday January 9 and Sunday January 10.WEEKEND FUN Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon,Aylesbury, HP18 0JH 01296 653226. Gardens, cellars,shops & stables open at weekends, plus 'explorer' themedkid's activities. 10am to 5pm. Activities £3.www.waddesdon.org.ukSunday January 10 EPIPHANY CAROLS BYCANDLELIGHT Holy Trinity Church, Church Gate,Cookham, SL6 9SP. Come along and partake in a beautifulEpiphany concert of carols by candlelight. A collection willbe taken for Alexander Devine children’s hospice service.Music led by the boys and men of the choirs of HolyTrinity Church. 6.30pm. www.alexanderdevine.orgSunday January 10 STORYTELLING IN THE DENNorden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF. 01628788997. Interactive storytelling in the magical story den,followed by a yummy Sunday lunch. Join in or unwind inthe Café Bar with a latte and the Sunday papers, whileyour little ones get involved in telling stories from all overthe world. Age guidance 4 – 7 years. £3 per child. Lunchmenu from £5. www.nordenfarm.orgSunday January 10 SWEETS, TRICKS ANDSCHOOLDAYS TRAIL Roald Dahl Museum & StoryCentre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL. 01494

892192. Mice hunt, all ages. 11am- 5pm. Free for museumvisitor. www.roalddahl.comFrom mid-January CLIVEDEN SNOWDROPS,Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA. 01628 605069. Enjoy thesnowdrops at Cliveden, the beautiful drifts of snowdrops,of the double-petalled Flore Preno variety. Most are foundon the west-facing side of the garden, starting to appear inJanuary, usual admission prices apply.www.nationaltrust.org.ukSTOWEDROP SEASON Stowe Landscape Gardens,Stowe, Buckingham, MK18 5EQ. 01280 817156. Enjoywalks to spot signs of snowdrops. 10am to 4pm.www.nationaltrust.org.ukSaturday January 16 to March 6 AMALUNATheRoyal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AP.0845 401 5045. Cirque du Soleil returns to the Hall withone of its newest touring shows, Amaluna has neverbefore been seen in the UK and will mark Cirque duSoleil’s 20th year at the stunning, world-famous venue.www.royalalberthall.comSaturday 16 January to May 2 THE SLIME SHOWThe Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride,Bracknell, RG12 7QW. 01344 354400. Why are slugs andsnails so slimy? Can you really cut, bounce or stretchslime? All very repulsive! This show is suitable for childrenaged 3 years old and over who can sit down for half anhour. Shows run at weekends and during school holidays,subject to minimum numbers. www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutweekendandholidayshowsFrom Monday January 18 WINTER SPOTTERTRAIL Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe, HP14 4LA.01494 755573. Follow the trail & find Hughenden's naturalwinter treasures, drop-in. www.nationaltrust.org.ukTuesday January 19 and Wednesday 20 TODDLERDAYS – WINTER MAGICThe Look Out DiscoveryCentre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW. 01344354400. Special days for both parent and toddlers.Activities include art and craft, storytelling and face orhand painting. £6.80 per parent and toddler, and £1.55 foreach additional toddler (up to a maximum of 3). 10am -4pm. www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/beWednesday January 20 to Saturday 23 RUSSIANSTATE BALLET PRESENTS FOUR BALLETSWycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe, HP112XE. 01494 512000. 20th: The Nutcracker, 21st: SnowMaiden, 22nd: Sleeping Beauty and 23rd: Swan Lake.7.30pm. www.wycombeswan.co.ukSaturday and Sunday January 23, 24 and 30 DICKWHITTINGTON AND HIS CATBourne End Community Centre, Wakeman Road, BourneEnd, Buckinghamshire, SL8 5SX. 01628 522 604. A family

pantomime featuring dancers from the Elite Academy.Saturday shows at 2.30 and 6.30pm. Sunday 2.30pm. £9adults, £7 concession from Bourne End Library or call01628 523291 for more information. forumplayers.comSaturday January 23 SECRET GRUBBERBOXESRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, GreatMissenden, HP16 0AL. 01494 892192. Stories & craft,6+yrs, booking required. 12noon, 1.30 & 3pm, £3.www.roalddahl.comSunday January 24 CRODSCOLLOPINGCHOCOLATE DECORATING Roald Dahl Museum(as above). Decorate a chocolate bar, 4+yrs, bookingrequired. 11.30am, 12.30, 2.30 & 3.30pm, £4.www.roalddahl.comSaturday January 30 BIG BIRDWATCHTake part inthe world's largest wildlife survey. Big Garden Birdwatchhas grown into fun for all the family. Count the birds inyour garden or a local park for one hour over theweekend. Visit the website for more info. www.rspb.org.ukSaturday January 30 COMMUNITY MARKETListon Hall, Chapel Street , Marlow, SL7 1DD. 01628472558. Marlow's monthly indoor market specialising inlocal foods and crafts, organised by Transition TownMarlow. Includes children's area at some sessions. 9.30am-1pm. www.marlowcommunitymarket.comSaturday January 30 JUNIOR DISCO Revolution,Maxwell Road, Beaconsfield, HP9 1QX. Music, dancing &games, Primary school ages children & their families. 2 to5pm. Child £7. www.juniordisco.co.ukSunday January 31 MUSEUM OPEN DAY HistoryOn Wheels Museum, Longhouse Close, Common Road,Eton Wick, SL4 6QY. 01753 862637/833833. A trulyunique collection of vehicles, both military and civilian, andartefacts of all types from both the civilian and wartimehome fronts. 10am-4pm. www.historyonwheels.co.uk

Thursday February 4 CHEEKY MONKEY FACESTring Natural History Museum, Akeman Street, Tring,HP23 6AP. 020 7942 6171.Craft activity, all ages. 11am &2pm, £2. www.nhm.ac.uk/tringSaturday February 6 FAMILY SATURDAYS -BRING ON THE BATTLEWindsor Castle, SL4 1NJ.020 7766 7304. Come to the Moat Room on theseSaturdays, where we will be looking at Windsor Castleunder siege. Try on some of the costumes on display andtake part in our art and craft workshop. 11am-3pm. Usualadmission charges apply, free with Advantage card.Saturdays until February 27. www.royalcollection.org.uk

FEBRUARY

What’s OnPlease email [email protected] with any events.

Battle time at Windsor Castle in half termand during Family Saturdays in February

Sound of Music at the Wycombe Swan,February 9-13

Snowdrop Walk at West Wycombe Park on February 14


Sunday February 7 STORYTELLING Norden Farm,Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF. 01628 788997.Interactive storytelling in the magical story den, followedby a yummy Sunday lunch. Join in or unwind in the CaféBar with a latte and the Sunday papers, while your littleones get involved in telling stories from all over theworld. For ages 4 to 7 years.11am.£3 per child. Lunchmenu from £5. www.nordenfarm.orgSunday February 7 CHINESE NEW YEARFESTIVITIES in central London take place in TrafalgarSquare, Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue. Highlightsinclude a lively parade and a main stage in Trafalgar Squareon from 12pm until 6pm, featuring visiting artists fromChina. Lion teams, performances from local artists andtraditional food and craft stalls. Dates to be confirmed.See visitlondon.comSunday February 7 ESIO TROT TORTOISEMAGNETS Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, HighStreet, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL. 01494 892192. Craftactivity, 5+yrs, booking required. 12noon, 1 & 2pm / £2.www.roalddahl.comSunday February 7 GUIDED WOODLAND WALKHodgemoor Woods, Bottrells Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP84EY. Family friendly guided nature walk, recognise trees,plants & animal tracks, booking essential.www.davidwillis.infoMonday February 8 EUROPEAN UNIONCHAMBER ORCHESTRAThe Hexagon, QueensWalk, Reading RG1 7UA. 0118 960 6060. The EuropeanUnion Chamber Orchestra plays Purcell, Vivaldi, Haydnand more. 7.30pm. Tickets £18 to £34.50 or £6 for under-16s. www.readingarts.comTuesday February 9 to Saturday February 13 THESOUND OF MUSICWycombe Swan, St Mary Street,High Wycombe, HP11 2XE. 01494 512000. The hills ofWycombe will come alive in this popular, family musical,booking required. www.wycombeswan.co.ukTuesday February 9 TORTOISE AND THE HAREThe Hexagon, Queens Walk, Reading RG1 7UA. 0118 9606060. Following the sell-out successes of Ugly Duckling,

Three Little Pigs and TV adaptations for CBeebies,Northern Ballet bring their magic to Tortoise & the Hare.Once upon a time there was a speedy Hare who neverstopped talking about how fast he could run. Tired ofbeing teased for his slowness, Tortoise challenged him to arace. Bringing this much-loved Aesop’s fable to life, this isthe perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy liveballet, music and theatre. These child friendlyperformances last approximately 40 minutes. 2pm & 4pm.Tickets £7. Suitable for ages: 3+ www.readingarts.comDaily From Wednesday February 10 LEONARDODA VINCI: THE MECHANICS OF GENIUS ScienceMuseum, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London,SW7 2DD. Predominantly recognised as one of history’sgreatest painters, Leonardo da Vinci was also a uniquelygifted scientist and engineer. The Mechanics of Geniusbrings the intricate mechanical concepts of this restlessand curious mind to life in a major interactive exhibition.£10, concessions available. www.sciencemuseum.comSaturday February 13 CHINESE NEW YEARMaidenhead Town Centre, Berkshire, SL6 1RF. Celebratethe New Year of the Monkey and witness the spectacle ofa traditional dragon and lion dance. Activities for all in theNicholson Centre. www.enjoymaidenhead.com Saturday February 13 to February 21 HISTORYOF THE BATTLEWindsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1NJ.020 7766 7304. Create your own medieval castle fit for aking throughout half term. On Thursday 18, Friday 19 andSaturday 20 February, we are joined by medieval historicalinterpreters, who will be talking to families about armourand weaponry from the Middle Ages, and demonstratingsome of their amazing collection. Usual admission charge.Free with Advantage card. www.royalcollection.org.ukSaturday February 13 to 2017 SHAKESPEARE INTHE ROYAL LIBRARYWindsor Castle (as above)‘Shakespeare in the Royal Library’ will show howgenerations of monarchs since Elizabeth I have enjoyedthe bard’s work, from acquiring copies to producing artinspired by his plays. On display for the first time will beShakespeare’s First Folio. Items relating to Herne’s Oak, a

tree which features in The Merry Wives of Windsor and isthought to have stood in the grounds of Windsor HomePark, will also be on show. The exhibition also features amanuscript dated 1607, showing views of Windsor Castleand the surrounding area as Shakespeare would haveknown it. www.royalcollection.org.ukSaturday February 13 to February 21 PLANES,TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES Hughenden Manor,Hughenden, High Wycombe, HP14 4LA 01494 755573.Children can explore the marvels of modern transport.11am to 3pm, £3 plus normal admission charges.www.nationaltrust.org.ukSaturday February 13 to February 21 HALF TERMFUNWaddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Aylesbury, HP180JH. 01296 653226. Outdoor trails with Thames valleyOrienteering Club plus indoor activities, drop-in. 11am to3pm. Activities £3. www.waddesdon.org.ukSaturday February 13 BUZZWANGLING BUGJARS Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street,Great Missenden, HP16 0AL. 01494 892192. Stories andcraft, 5+yrs, booking required. 12noon, 1.30 & 3pm /£2.50. www.roalddahl.comSunday February 14 FORESTER WALK HughendenManor, Hughenden, High Wycombe, HP14 4LA. 01494755573.Two-hour wood walk, finish with a drink or soup,booking required. 10am to 12noon, £10.www.nationaltrust.org.ukSunday February 14 THE SNOWDROP WALK,West Wycombe Park, Buckinghamshire HP14 3AJ. TheSnowdrop Walk is a special day to remember the babiesand children who have died and the children who arebereaved each year. The park is available to walk around atyour leisure with the addition of a children's TreasureHunt where they receive a fun-filled goody bag at the end.Snowdrops are available for purchase on the day andcharity staff and volunteers will be on hand to help withthe planting at The Temple of Venus within the park. Hotfood and refreshments will be available from WestWycombe Village Hall where some extra children'sactivities will also be taking place including colouring andpuzzle building. Just turn up on the day between 11am and4pm. £2.50 adult, £1.50, children and concessions, childrenunder 3.Monday February 15 to Friday 19 HALF TERMCREATIVE CAMP Busy Buttons Creative StudioUpton House School, Windsor, SL4 3DF. 07952 418 212.Ofsted Approved Camps offer 3-14 year olds a uniqueopportunity to learn, experience and be entertained whilethey gain numerous transferable skills from film andtheatre industry professionals. Children have a fun timelearning creative activities ranging from puppet making,designing, painting, film making, sculpting, animating,costume making, model making, prop-making among othertechniques and mediums while working on an animationfilm. They build on their self-esteem, confidence and senseof responsibility while taking part in activities related toart, sports, engineering and much more. ChildcareVouchers accepted, RBWM Advantage card discount, DBSchecked. www.busybuttons.orgMonday February 15 Peut-Etre Theatre presentSHH...BANG! South Street Arts Centre 21 SouthStreet, Reading, RG1 4QU. Box Office: 0118 960 6060. Adelicate dance-theatre performance for children and theiradults, playfully exploring sound and silence. Twocharacters set out on a journey through a world filledwith Boings, Whooshes, Tick-Tocks and Cacophony! Theirjourney is punctuated by silence, and as they are wrappedup in stillness, they learn to listen to that silence. Suitablefor ages 3+ All tickets £9.20 11.30am & 2pmwww.readingarts.comMonday February 15 PADDINGTON BEAR’SFIRST CONCERT Norden Farm, Altwood Road,Maidenhead, SL6 4PF. 01628 788997. Five musiciansperform stories told with music. The programme includes

What’s OnCompiled by Siobhan NewmanEvent times and dates do change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.

Shh...Bang is at South Street Arts Centre,Reading, on February 15

Here be Monsters at Norden Farm on February 16

TomThumb is at Norden Farm on February 21


R

Thames Valley East

BOOK NOWfor advertising in our March/April 2016 Issue - Due out March 2Featuring Under 5’s and Easteremail: [email protected]

Paddington Bear’s First Concert by Herbert Chappell, theTeddy Bears Picnic and other animal related music.Instruments played include flute, oboe, clarinet, Frenchhorn and bassoon. They are performed in a fun andeducational way. Suitable for ages 5+ years. Stay for thechance for children to try the musical instruments afterthe show. £10 (£8 under 16s). Family & Friends (4 people)£32. www.nordenfarm.orgTuesday February 16 HERE BE MONSTERSNorden Farm (as above) Join the villainous Captain Cut-Throat and his fearsome crew for a sea faring adventure.Set sail through monster infested waters in search of amysterious island crammed with jewels and gemstones.Packed full of songs, interactive fun and surprises, this isan exciting, brand new stage adaptation of the hitchildren’s book. Suitable for ages 3+ years. Presented byMayflower Productions and Belfield & Slater Musicals.11.30am and 2pm. £10 (£8 under 16s). Family & Friends(4 people) £32 www.nordenfarm.orgTuesday February 16 SING-A-LONG-A-FROZENWycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe, HP112XE. 01494 512000. Sing a long with live host, 5+yrs,booking required. 2pm. Tickets from £11.www.wycombeswan.co.ukTuesday February 16 STATIC VIEWING DAYBuckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station,Quainton, Aylesbury, HP22 4BY. 01296 655720. See the exhibits on a quieter day. No trains running.10.30am to 4.30pm. Adult £11, Senior £10, Child, £8,Family £32. www.bucksrailcentre.orgWednesday February 17 A CHANCE OF LIGHTNorden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF. 01628788997. Be transported to a place where anything ispossible, when a little light comes to life in front of youreyes. Join it on a magical journey, as it plays a gentlemelody on a guitar, travels down a river and dances with afriend. It might even land in the palm of your hand!Suitable for ages 4+ years. A mesmerising show whichinspires the imagination and enriches the senses. £3. Eachperformance is 15 mins long. 11.30am, 12noon, 2pm and3.45pm. www.nordenfarm.orgWednesday February 17 BIRD BOXES Tring Natural

History Museum, Akeman Street, Tring, HP23 6AP. 0207942 6171. One hour workshop, 5+yrs, booking required.11am, 2.30 & 3.30pm Tickets £8. www.nhm.ac.uk/tringWednesday February 17 WILD WEDNESDAYCliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA. 01628605069.Get outdoors this half term with a WildWednesday of activities in the beautiful grounds. Funwhatever the weather. £2 per child.www.nationaltrust.org.ukWednesday February 17 AESOP’S FABLES SouthHill Park Ringmead Bracknell RG12 7PA. 01344 484 123.Join professional storyteller Derek Florey for anafternoon of wonderfully imaginative stories as he bringsto life much loved children’s classics such as The TownMouse and the Country Mouse, The Hare and theTortoise and many more. 2pm-3.30pm, £8.Suitable for 3 years+ www.southhillpark.org.ukWednesday February 17 STEAMING DAYBuckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station,Quainton, Aylesbury, HP22 4BY. 01296 655720. Steamtrain rides, all ages. 10.30am to 4.30pm. Adult £11, Senior£10, Child, £8, Family £32. www.bucksrailcentre.orgWednesday February 17 TRACKS & TRAILS StoweLandscape Gardens, Stowe, Buckingham, MK18 5EQ.01280 817156. Get a guide to animal tracks, discoverwhat animal makes which footprint and learn how to layyour own secret trails, 5-12yrs, booking required. 10.30am& 1.30pm. Usual entry fee applies.www.nationaltrust.org.ukWednesday February 17 NICK COPE'S FAMILYSONGBOOKThe Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore,London, SW7 2AP. 0845 401 5045. Monkeys, bears, socksand mud, this man sings about everything children arereally interested in! Professional singer and songwriterNick Cope made the international charts as TheCandyskins’ lead singer in the 1990s. Now he writes,records and performs music for children and hasestablished a strong following of little and not-so-littlepeople all over the world. 11am, 2pm, £7.75.www.royalalberthall.comThursday February 18 TADPOLES Norden Farm,Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF. 01628 788997.

Superheroes Captain Clever and Captain Conker have aBIG problem – a very disgruntled Mission Control.Captain Clever is good at code breaking and problemsolving, whilst Captain Conker is super fast and notscared of anything. But a tadpole catching competitionchallenges our dynamic duo. Can they save the world…together? Suitable for ages 5+ years. A highly visual andenergetic play about rivalry, strengths, weaknesses andsuperheroes! 11.30am and 2pm. £10 (£8 under 16s)Family & Friends (4 people) £32. www.nordenfarm.orgThursday February 18 MEET THE MINIBEASTSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, GreatMissenden, HP16 0AL. 01494 892192. Meet the experts &handle the bugs, 5+yrs, booking required. 10.30am,12noon, 2 & 3.30pm / £4. www.roalddahl.comFriday February 19 to February 21 INTO THEWOODSWycombe Swan, St Mary Street, HighWycombe, HP11 2XE. 01494 512000. Musical theatre byStephen Sondheim at The Old Town Hall, bookingrequired. 19th 7pm, 20th 2.30 & 7pm, 21st 5.30pm. Ticketsfrom £11. www.wycombeswan.co.ukSaturday February 20TRY ORIENTEERINGWaddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Aylesbury, HP18 0JH.01296 653226. Courses for runners, families and childrenfrom 1 to 5km, drop-in. 10 to 11.30am. £6.www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.ukSunday February 21 TOM THUMB Norden Farm,Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF. 01628 788997. Theepic tale of the smallest hero in the world. The excitingadventure is brought to life with superb puppetry, musicand fantastic design. Suitable for ages 4+ years. 11.30amand 2pm £10 (£8 under 16s). Family & Friends (4 people)£32. www.nordenfarm.orgSaturday February 27 JUNIOR DISCO Revolution,Maxwell Road, Beaconsfield, HP9 1QX. Music, dancing & games, Primary school ages children &their families. 2 to 5pm / Child £7. www.juniordisco.co.ukSaturday February 27 WONDROUS WELSHTRAIL Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street,Great Missenden, HP16 0AL. 01494 892192. Daffodil hunt,all ages. 11am to 5pm. Free for museum visitors.www.roalddahl.com


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Maped Helix are offering 3 luckyreaders a chance to win prizebundles, including a MapedKidy’Board and Maped JungleInnovation felt tip pens.

The Kidy’Board is a transparent writingboard developed to help children learnto write. It is flexible, ultra-safe and allscribbles can be wiped away without atrace every time. With lots of activitysheets included, learning to write willnever be dull again!

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New Year - New You

-children and adults private one to one swimming-all ages and abilities-crash courses

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We all know the eating an entireselection box, hiding your trainersand drinking cocktails all of

December is ok because your New Year’sResolutions will correct the damage inJanuary.

Right?

I’m afraid not.

On January 1st you might vow to go vegan,become a Pilates princess and meditate everyday, but when it’s freezing cold, times-tablesare cracking you up and everyone has a cold(man flu for some), the resolutions will bebinned and the cork screw will come out.

“I always start Weight Watchers in January andvow to go every week but it never lasts because Ilove my food and my curves”. Jo“The Zumba DVD I had as a Christmas

present last year is still in the wrapper and hasbeen sent as tombola prize for the schoolChristmas fayre”. Sue“A friend and I decided to give up wine last

January for good, one night out we went out andforget all about it and woke up the next day withthe hangovers to prove it.” Daisy

I’ve been pondering this for a while and havecome up with a few resolutions I think youwill like, and more to the point, will all beable to keep.

Natalie Trice contemplatesthe unrealisticexpectations we canhave about our lives inthe New Year, andcomes up with somemuch easier (andfunnier) rules to live by.

• Ditch the scales and go by how your jeansfeel. If they’re a bit snug, buy new ones.•Add at least one bottle of fizz to theweekly shop - new research has shown thatdrinking Champagne can keep the memorysharp.• Swap that organic spinach and lentil bakefor bangers and mash – go on, I dare you!• Find an exercise class or a personal trainerto work with that you actually look forwardto. Exercise is supposed to be fun, not achore.• Have a wee without an audience. Notoddler, no dog, not even teddy is allowed tobe in the bathroom in 2016.• Replace Minecraft and Cartoon Networkwith Facebook and Twitter on your phone.• Speaking of social media – don’t believethe hype. The friends with perfect online livesin reality have Sharpie drawings on their‘Elephant’s Breath’ walls, raisins in thebottom of their designer bags and wear theirPJs under their coats when they go to thecorner shop. • Locate your nearest Cook and get aloyalty card.• Swap the mint tea for a double shotespresso.• Don’t put up with bad manners,inconsiderate behaviour and rudeness.

• Gossip, it’s great for the soul.• Don’t stress the school run, get there latebecause being early is so 2015. • Give up the gym - it smells of sweat andmakes you so hungry you scoff a Mars bar onthe drive home.• Life’s too short to do chores - out-sourcethem if you can afford it and do somethingdifferent in 2016 instead. The moral to this tale is to do more of whatmakes you really happy. It may be that eatingquinoa and doing yoga every day really doesmake you feel better, but for others it’shaving a glass of fizz and watching rubbishtelly.

Either way a happy Mum = happy kids.

Wishing you a very happy New Year.

Natalie

THE NEW YEAR’SRESOLUTIONS YOU REALLYWANT TO MAKE

Natalie is a freelance journalist andblogger (www.justbecauseilove.co.uk)who knows a thing or two about PRand social media too(www.natalietrice.co.uk). Based inBuckinghamshire she is mummy totwo little boys, wife to one husbandand keeper of a cat and dog, who allkeep her busy and on her toes.


Parenting

There’s a growing gulf in digitalknowledge between parentsand their children. The pace

of change in technology is thefastest it has ever been - YouTube isonly ten years old; Facebook is nine;Instagram is five; Snapchat is onlyfour and Periscope is less than ayear old.

These are brilliant and excitingservices – but they also mean wenow have the first generation ofparents managing issues aroundtheir kids’ access and use of servicesthey are completely unfamiliar with.Parents now have a uniqueopportunity to increase their digitalIQ, in order to help their childrennavigate the web in a safe and secure way.

New research by Internet Mattersshows that while parents understand theirFacebook, Google, WhatsApp, Twitter andSkype, there are a number social apps theyrarely use or simply don’t get. These arethe ones that children are predominantlyusing.

The research shows that 58% of childrenuse Snapchat compared to14% of parents,and 56% of children use Instagramcompared to 19% of parents. So let’s de-mystify what these latest apps are all about.

Eva Winter OsteopathBSc (Hons), DPO• Providing safe and effective hands-on treatment for adults, children and babies

• Vitality Osteopaths, 1st Floor 36 West Street, Marlow, Bucks, SL7 2NB

For more informationT: 01494 482028M: 07776 448700E: [email protected]: evawinter.co.ukRegistered with the General Osteopathic Council, British Osteopathic Association and Alumni for Paediatric Osteopathy

HOW TO KEEP YOURCHILDREN SAFEONLINE 2015 saw the most connected Christmas yet, with mobilephones, tablets, games consoles and connected toysfeaturing in children’s Christmas stockings up and downthe country. Carolyn Bunting, General Manager ofInternet Matters, tells families how to make sure yourchildren are being safe and responsible online.

Snapchat is a real-time photo and videosharing app. It averages 400 million ‘snaps’ aday and the minimum age to sign-up for anaccount is 13. Once a ‘snap’ (image) isposted, the user can choose how long theviewers can view it – from 1 to 10 secondsand then the image disappears. Users canalso create ‘stories’, a string of photos andvideos available for 24 hours. You cantailor who you post to and who you canreceive snaps from – it’s designed for yourchildren to share moments with friends.However there is a danger that childrencan connect with people they don’t know.

Advise your child to share content withtheir ‘real friends’ and only share thingsthat they would be happy to share withyou. Whilst the image ‘disappears’, manypeople know how to take a screen grab ofit that they can share with anyone.

Instagram is also a photo and videosharing app that has over 400 millionmonthly users around the World. Althoughthe minimum age for Instagram is 13, ourresearch shows 67% 11-13 year olds haveused this app. To keep them safe, ensureyour child chooses a private account,which means they have to approve anyonewho wants to follow them, and then talk tothem about only accepting followers theyknow.

When they post pictures make sure theyshare either directly, withup to 15 friends, orprivately to make sure postsaren’t shared publicly. Theycan do this in the edit yourprofile section.

In the app settings, turnoff location services. Thismeans they will not besharing location informationwith any of their posts.

Parents can’t be expectedto be tech gurus overnight,nor should they be. Theweb changes in an instantbut one thing remains aconstant - the need toprotect our children.

It is vital that we build an understandingof what young people are doing online, andhelp them understand the risks that theymay face. By encouraging open and frankconversations between parent and childabout digital safety we can make theinternet a safe and inspiring place for ourchildren to play.

Internet Matters is a not-for-profitorganisation designed to help parents keeptheir children safe online. For dedicatedInternet safety resources for your childrenplease visit www.internetmatters.org.


Bumps ‘n’ Babes

See our

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Book during your visit and save up to £260.00

Cookham Road, Maidenhead • 01628 623777Norden Road, Maidenhead • 01628 630323

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Golden rules for buying on a budget:

•You’ll need to invest in some necessitiesbefore your baby arrives, but you don’tneed everything yet. Tell the world you’repregnant - you’ll be amazed at what hand-me-downs come your way.• Prepare a gift list, or exchange unwantedgifts for something useful.• Hit eBay with a vengeance. Baby clothesand equipment often come in bundles,which are far cheaper than bidding forindividual items.• Only buy new if there is a safety issueinvolved. You can buy almost everythingsecond-hand and as most baby gear is usedfor such a short period of time, things willbe in surprisingly good nick. Look out forNCT sales, and if you live in a baby-centricarea your local charity shop will be packedwith prams, cots and highchairs.• If your friends have children why notorganise your own swapping event?• Join recycling forum Freecycle or otherswapping-buying-selling websites such asNappy Valley or Gumtree.• If you must buy new, go budget. Budgetbrands have to pass the same safety testsas the expensive ones and are often madeby the same companies. Manysupermarkets sell stylish baby clothes at agreat price, and Ikea have brilliant nurseryfurniture. If you can't live without theexpensive brands, go straight to the salerail.• Buy in bulk whenever you see a goodoffer (especially nappies!)

The gear you actually need:

SleepingGo for a cot-bed from the start, ordecorate a basic cot to make it look like adesigner one. While cots can be boughtsecond-hand, current guidelines onpreventing SIDS suggest that babies shouldsleep on new clean mattresses. Baby sleeping bags are great but pricey sobuy them second-hand or from thesupermarket. Many mums think babymonitors are unnecessary but if you dowant one, the £20 basic model is just asgood as the all-singing, all-dancing variety

BABY ON A BUDGETBy Joanna Parry

Having a baby is a costly business, and it’s not unusual forparents to spend thousands of pounds on kit before theirbaby even arrives. But the truth is, babies don’t reallyneed that much stuff and what they do need you canoften borrow from friends or buy second-hand.

Out-and-about Easily the most expensive piece of kit is abuggy, so look for decent models on arecycling site. Or go for a cheap one thatfolds up and is lightweight. Some Maclarenbuggies still allow a newborn to lie flatInvest in a second-hand sling for as little as£10, or borrow one – an unbelievablenumber of mums buy slings brand new andnever use them. Try babywearing.co.uk -they organise sling meet-ups across theUK for mums to test-drive different slings.Car seats CAN be bought second-handbut make sure you are confident that theseat has not been in an accident. Go for aconvertible model that lasts from birth to4 years. If you aren't sure about the carseat, do make sure you buy it new. Oftengrandparents want to contribute and themore expensive items like these, are theones to ask for.

Feeding and changingApart from a pram, cot and car seat, babiesneed very little - nappies, a few babygros(in neutral colours), a blanket, cardigan andhat. Don’t buy any other baby clothes –you’ll receive enough gifts when they’reborn.Save money by breastfeeding - bottle-

feeding costs over £500 a year and that’sjust the formula! If you do bottle-feed, savemoney by not investing in a steriliser andusing boiling-water instead. You don’t needa bottle warmer either – use hot water oreven better, get your baby used to room-temperature feeds. You don’t need ahighchair yet, and hopefully someone willlend you one by the time you do.

Whichever side you're on in the debateabout green washable nappies, there's nodoubt they work out cheaper - as long asyou don't wash them at 90 degrees ortumble-dry. It can cost up to £1000 tokeep a baby in disposable nappies untilthey are potty-trained, whereas usingreusable nappies costs only a few hundredpounds for baby number one and even lesswhen siblings come along. If you choose touse disposables buy the supermarket valueones, or stock up on premium brandswhen they’re on offer. If you go eco, buy inbulk from websites such asbeamingbaby.co.uk.

Useful Websitesbaby.shop.ebay.co.ukfreecycle.orgnct.org.uk/branches/events/nearly-new-salesnappyvalley.co.ukgumtree.comcraigslist.co.ukfaracharityshops.orgikea.com/gb/en/goreal.org.ukkiddicare.combabycentre.co.ukmoneysavingexpert.comkelkoo.co.uk

30

Mums Who Mean Business

FAMILIES Thames Valley East JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 E-mail: [email protected]

Wednesday 20th January 2016

Who you are and where do you live?My name is Sara Hill, and I live inWinchester.Why did you set up the business/orwhy have you changed career?In 2007 I found myself looking to return towork after taking a 2-year break to havemy two children. I set about looking for achallenging role with flexibility so I couldspend time with her young family. What did you use to do?I held senior roles in managementconsultancy (Ernst & Young, Stratevolve)and in industry (Montague, Virgin) in theUK and the US. I have extensiveexperience in developing and sellingprofessional service consulting solutionswithin global organisations with in-depthknowledge of the talent, resourcing, flexibleworking and diversity arena.What inspired you to set up thebusiness?Eventually, after a "roller coaster of ajourney", I found the perfect role throughmy own network: a challenging part-timeconsulting role with a boutique strategyconsultancy. Although extremely happy with my new

job, the seed of an idea had been sown.On top of my personal experience, therewas compelling research to show that 60%of highly qualified women and men wantedto work part time so they could remain inor progress in their careers. A lack ofgenuinely flexible senior opportunitiescombined with a national skills shortage

Who you are and where do you live?My name is Maria and I live in Maidenheadwith my husband and two children. This isthe town where I grew up, went to schooland studied in. Although I planned as anadult to live by the sea, I actually married afellow Maidonian and here is where thecycle started again.Why did you set up the business?After I returned from a long spell travellinga local photographer was looking for anassistant and second shooter for weddingsand portraits. I had studied photography atArt College and really enjoyed it. This wasback in the day of film when weddingphotography was much more traditionaland staid. This is where I cut my teeth andlearned all about weddings and classicsocial photography. The move from film to

digital was the pivot for me as it gave methe tools to include my love to documentinto weddings and portraits. What did you use to do?After working for a few otherphotographers I realised that I wanted towork in a different way than they did. Iwanted to provide a more personal andtailored service, to add flourish and extraswhile still maintaining the quality. Themove coincided with starting a family andthe business has grown with them but alsofitting around their needs too.What inspired you to set up thebusiness?I was lucky that my husband gave me achunk of his savings to aid me in buyingmost of the equipment that I initiallyrequired. I already had a camera and lens

combined to drive the creation ofCapability Jane as a recruitment companyfocussing on part time and flexible workingroles.What are your plans for the future?Capability Jane Recruitment is expandingacross the Thames Valley andCambridgeshire regions. We are keen tohear from talented individuals looking forflexible opportunities, and flexibleemployers looking for talent.If Sara’s story resonates with you and youare a professional looking to return towork then please register atcapabilityjane.com

Like many great ideas, Sarah Hill’s Capability Jane Recruitment wasborn out of personal experience and sheer determination.

After spending time working for other photographers, Maria AshbyGiles took the plunge and set up on her own, creating a business thatfits around family life.

Find flexible well paid work withCapability Jane

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Who you are and where do you live?We are two friends, Clare Brasier, mum oftwo, and Helen Costa, mum of two, bothfrom Berkshire.Why did you set up the business/or whyhave you changed career?Clare says: “We both adopted our children.Having gone through the process we satdown one day and looked at how ourexperience could have been better. We both had careers before our family andwe were also both ready to go back to workin some form but that would not impact onour families. Whatever we did we wanted to fit it aroundthe needs of our families as well as improvethe process for other families and help otherchildren find loving homes.So in March 2015 we launched a pilot projectaiming to help recruit and train prospectiveadoptive parents with Adopt Berks. We are aBerkshire-wide initiative designed to providesupport for families seeking to adopt. Ourscheme aims to reduce the time childrenspend in foster homes waiting for theirpermanent family and help provideadoptive parents with tools, strategiesand support for parenting.”What did you use to do?Helen has operated at Board level inthe public and private sector and hasproven credentials as an entrepreneurhaving created and now licensed children’sbrand Little Punk London.Clare has over 20 years experience as a

global management IT consultant and trainerwith experience gained in both the privateand public sector.What inspired you to set up thebusiness?

Helen says: “It was our own experience ofadopting, but also when we sat down andlooked into it we discovered many things. Inthe UK looked after children spend too longin care waiting to be adopted. There is now awell-established negative correlation betweenthe length of time children wait and theireventual life chances. We wanted to offer some support andguidance for parents adopting either pre-placement or as a restorative parenting skillafter placement. We believe our package of

support can really make a difference tothe quality of life of adoptive familieswhile also creating efficiencies foradoption agencies.”What are your plans for thefuture?

Claire says: “We just want to keepspreading the word of what support

parents and families who adopt and fostercan access as well as continue to help findloving homes for children in care. We havesome amazing experts and therapistsworking with us and we just want toempower others to influence their futures.”

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Having both been through the adoption process, Berkshire mums Clareand Helen, used their experience in setting up The CornerstonePartnership to help support and train prospective adoptive parents.

but I needed a back up and newsoftware, lights and studioequipment. For the first few yearsmost of what I earned I investedback into the business, upgradingequipment and adding to myportfolio so I could expand intoother areas of the business likeCommercial and Business Portraits. Ialso decided to buy a car because at thetime we only had one car, which madelogistics quite complicated for a while. Sofor a while friends provided endlessbabysitting duties and were also calledupon to carry bags, hold reflectors and actas drivers.What are your plans for the future?The future of my business is very exciting.This year has been busy and I haveventured further into the corporate worldshooting business/corporate headshots andimages mainly for social media, Internet

and businessreports. I haveworked withmany youngdancers and thisyear I will beshooting moredance shows and

working with danceschools for dancer

portfolios. I have someamazing weddings already booked for 2016& 2017, the diary is already filling up. I amlooking to recruit a new assistant toaccompany me on wedding shoots and totrain up as a photographer, as well as agraphic designer/picture editor to workalong side my office manager. The plan is tomake Maria Ashby-Giles photography intoa team.

ashbygilesphotography.co.uk

Clare Brasier and Helen Costa

As well as weddingphotography Maria also doesfamily portraiture

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families thames valley east jan - feb 2016 issue 82

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