Thames Valley West - Brand new "Get Outdoors!" feature Family health When friendships go wrong Loads of child-friendly local activities ...
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FR
TA
KE
EEME
H
OM
E
Thames Valley West
IN THIS ISSUE
Brand new “Get Outdoors!” feature
Family health • When friendships go wrong
Loads of child-friendly local activities
Issue 116 January/February 2022 familiesonline.co.uk
Looking for a new owner, long established
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2 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire familiesonline.co.uk
...endless ideas for families of young children in
Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham
Families® Thames Valley West • Issue 116 • January / February 2022 Visit us at www.familiesonline.co.uk
In this issue...
Edit or’s
4-5
6
News and Views
Education News
Welcome...
Happy New Year! 2022 is here,
7 Meet the Head: St. Andrew’s bringing with it the thrill of new
School Pangbourne possibilities to come over the
next twelve months.
8 Learning to Write Rethinking your career may be
a New Year’s resolution,
9 Print Books or E-books? especially as we look forward to
something resembling “the old
10 Language features
normal”. Our article on taking a
chance with your career post-
11 When Friendships Go
Covid provides inspiration for forward to your To “cap” it off, Wear a Hat Day
Wrong
those wishing to take the plunge recommendations for other is coming! This is a unique
and try something different. outdoor places to visit with the national event which unites
12 Get Outdoors!
Locally, we have a lively new family. families, communities and
13 Happier Every Chapter feature: Get Outdoors! In this On that note, please get in schools for a day of hattastic fun
issue we have collaborated with touch with your comments for with the aim of raising money for
14-15 Clubs and Classes fantastic local outdoor activities our “Have your say” section. It’s Brain Tumour Research. Find out
company, Little Muddy Boots, to great to hear what people are up more about this and how you
16 Health features give you a suggestion of a fun to and to gather your ideas and can join in the fun in our News
outdoor craft to enjoy with the suggestions to share with other and Views section.
Lesley x.
17 Taking a Chance with Your children, whatever the weather. I families in our wonderful Thames Have a great January and
Career Post-Covid have shared one of my favourite Valley West! February!
local “hidden gems”, and I look
18 Have Your Say! & Soothing
Nightmares and Night
Terrors
Congratulations to
19 Meet Mumpreneur
Sarah Collison
Lizzie Shirley, who
won tickets to Hurst
20 Knowing Your Nursery
Pantomime in our
from Your Pre-school
Nov/Dec 2021 issue!
21-23 What’s On
The Families
team...
Editor: Lesley Chambers
Production: Ridgeway Press Follow us on
01256 300420
www.ridgewaypress.co.uk
Facebook and
Next issue: Instagram
March / April 2022 –
Easter activities
Booking deadline:
7th February 2022
To advertise: If you are reading this, so are your customers! We can help you
reach an audience of over 47,000 parents in Reading, Henley, Newbury,
Wokingham, Bracknell and West Berkshire. Drop us a line at
editor@familiestvw.co.uk to find out how we can help support your family
friendly business!
Families Thames Valley West is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham
House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Thames Valley West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without
prior consent of Families Thames Valley West. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for
the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
NEWS AND VIEWS
A Drama Class for Shy Kids…
Really? Yes, really!
If you have been told by your child’s teacher
that they rarely put their hand up in class,
drama could be the answer.
StageAbility helps children to build their
confidence and self-esteem by teaching
acting and theatre skills so that they can
overcome life’s challenges, even if they are
really shy.
Mrs Smith from Wokingham told us, ““My Help fund vital research by
Classes are not performance-based; they are
daughter has been a part of StageAbility for
great fun and lots of the work is through joining Wear A Hat Day!
nearly 5 years now. She has loved the weekly
drama games building trust and friendships. Join thousands of children, parents and
classes. My family and I have loved watching
After-school drama classes run in teachers on Friday 25th March for Wear A Hat
her grow in confidence. StageAbility has
Wokingham, Lower Earley, Tilehurst and Day – a great way to bring people together and
been amazing for her to help nurture her
Burghfield Common. To book a trial class, raise vital funds for leading charity Brain
passion for drama and it’s also given her a
visit https://stageability.class4kids.co.uk Tumour Research.
great network of friends.”
Register your school, community or family
event today: www.wearahatday.org and we’ll
send you a free fundraising pack!
COMPETITION: WIN A TERM OF DRAMA CLASSES AT STAGEABILITY! Coming at the end of March, Brain Tumour
If your child is in Year 3-6, you could win them a term of drama classes! Awareness Month, several celebrities are
supporting this hattastic campaign.
Question: The latest set of collectable Wear A Hat Day
Are StageAbility drama classes performance-based? pin badges have a regal theme in celebration of
To enter, e-mail your answer, along with your name and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year. Order your
e-mail address to editor@familiestvw.co.uk by box of badges to sell during registration!
28th February 2022. Brain tumours kill more children and adults
under the age of 40 than any other cancer. This
All entries from new students will receive a is unacceptable and Brain Tumour Research is
discounted offer of classes at Stageability. determined to change this. Funds raised from
Wear A Hat Day will help towards establishing a
new Research Centre of Excellence.
Take part in National Storytelling Week
National Storytelling Week takes place from 29 sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer
January to 5 February and during this period, a child needs firstly to be a good speaker and
stories will be told in schools and theatres, listener.
pubs, museums, village halls, community Above all though, storytelling is fun. Whether
centres and in many other places across the we are listening to someone else’s story or
UK. telling our own, inventing and adapting stories
Speech and language therapists believe that can open doors to exciting new worlds — both
storytelling is vital for children’s academic real and imaginary.
success as it promotes narrative skills and To find a local event or to look through its
strengthens the ability of children to correctly extensive archive, visit www.sfs.org.uk
Home from Home with Chilly Powder
Do you prefer winter or summer in the Alps… groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food
or both? Francesca, Paul and their three and outstanding facilities, with unrivalled in-
children live in Morzine in France all year round house childcare facilities. For many returning
and have a good knowledge of Alpine guests Chilly Powder is considered a real home
traditions and the Morzine people. from home. www.chillypowder.com
Having adapted their chalet holiday style over For more about Chilly Powder chalets for
the years to suit the tastes of their regular summer and winter visit
guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer www.chillypowder.com
holidays for either families, couples or mixed
4 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham familiesonline.co.uk
NEWS & VIEWS
Families Thames Valley West to Donate to The Woodland
Trust with Every Issue This magazine is a wonderful local
resource, and I would like it to remain
Pierce, an environmental campaigner
and expert on climate change, I realised
relevant and positive. Amid increasing that the value of existing mature
concerns about the environment and woodland, both to nature and humanity,
the impact of a product that uses paper, far outweighs that of newly planted
I have decided to make a donation to an trees. I will therefore be donating to
environmental charity with every issue The Woodland Trust, which maintains
of Families Thames Valley West some of the most valuable biodiversity
magazine that is printed. woodlands in the U.K. and works to
My initial intention was to donate to a promote sustainable land management,
charity that plants trees, naively whilst continuing to educate myself
assuming that these would cancel out about conservation and
any trees that had been cut down. environmentally-conscious actions.
However, after discussion with Clive Lesley Chambers, editor
Children’s Mental Health Week 2022
From 7 to 13 February, families across the UK to consider how they’ve grown, what they
are encouraged to take part in Children’s need to help them grow and how they can
Mental Health Week with the theme Growing help others to grow too.
Together. Around five children in every
Growing Together is about growing classroom have a mental health problem and
emotionally and finding ways to help each many more struggle with challenges from
other do the same. Challenges and setbacks bullying to bereavement.
can help us to grow and adapt and trying new Help raise funds to enable Place2Be to reach
things can help us to move beyond our more people by organising a Dress to Express
comfort zone into a new realm of possibility fundraiser.
and potential. Find FREE resources for parents and carers and
Run by the children’s mental health charity more information at
Place2Be, children (and adults) are being asked www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk
Welcome to Rugbytots: fun, weekly finish the class, leaving everybody on a
Looking for things to do classes for children aged 2-7, themed high.
around rugby! Every class has a lead coach and an
in the New Year? Rachel Cooper has five years'
experience running a franchise, and she
assistant coach, and the classes are
delivered with excitement, enthusiasm
has recently purchased East Berkshire, and drama, which really engages the
Reading and Henley, so new classes children.
have arrived in Tilehurst, Caversham, Feedback from parents all over world
Earley and Woodley, alongside the well- mirrors this comment: ‘My little one’s
established classes in Henley, Marlow confidence has grown, his listening skills
and Maidenhead. have improved, his behaviour has
Each class starts off with a fun warm- improved.”
up game, followed by passing and
catching, the amazing obstacle For more information, go to:
course/relay races, kicking and one of https://www.rugbytots.co.uk/ or
many fun-filled Rugbytots games to e-mail rachelc@rugbytots.co.uk.
More risky playgrounds are better for kids
The British Children's Play Survey revealed being built to be dangerous, forcing children to
recently that British society is becoming more negotiate perilous obstacles while risking injury
protective of children, at a detriment to their if they fall.
ability to manage risk and their overall mental According to Prof Rolf Schwarz of Karlsruhe
and physical health. University of Education, who works with
David Ball, a professor of risk management councils and playground designers to develop
at Middlesex University, said UK playgrounds challenging obstacles, 'safe' playgrounds
were ‘over-sterilised.’ prevent kids from learning how to handle risk
‘If you look at them only as a series of in the early stages of their development.
potential dangers, you’re missing something 'If we want children to be prepared for risk,
important’ he said. we need to allow them to come into contact
By contrast, in Germany, playgrounds are with risk,' said the professor.
familiesonline.co.uk Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk Families Thames Valley West • 5
EDUCATION NEWS
Cost of school uniform to drop
The government has published option which also helps the
legally binding guidance which environment.
means that schools in England
Schools will be expected to have
must ensure that the cost of their
made changes before parents buy
school uniform is reasonable and
new uniform for the new
parents get the best value for
academic year in September 2022.
money.
Research from the Department of
From next autumn, schools will be
Education in 2015 showed that
required to remove unnecessary
parents can save almost £50 on
branded items from their uniform
average if they can buy all school
and allow more high-street
uniform items from any store,
options, like supermarket own-
compared to uniform which all
brand uniform. Schools will also be
needs to be bought from a
required to have second-hand
designated shop or school.
uniforms available, as an affordable
More flexible approach to school starting age
Being young in a school class puts Senior author Professor Jonna
a child at a long-term disadvantage Kuntsi said: ‘The difference
compared to their older peers between the youngest and oldest
according to new research. member of a class can be up to
The study by Kings College eleven months. In the early stages
London, found that when children of childhood, this is a significant
are the youngest in their class, they difference in terms of maturity,
have a greater chance of behaviour and cognitive abilities.’
experiencing educational The researchers are now calling
problems, as well as social and for greater flexibility about school
even emotional complications. starting age.
These findings could help parents
considering when to enrol their More at www.kcl.ac.uk/news
child in school.
Moving Forward Together: Bradfield College and St Andrew’s School
SCHOOL OPEN
Bradfield College and St Andrew’s
School are excited to be entering a
DAYS
new era for both schools when,
ELSTREE SCHOOL
following over twelve months of
Saturday, 26th February from
due-diligence and talks, they joined
10am to 12 noon.
to found the Bradfield Group on
December 10th, 2021.
KIDMORE END PRIMARY
This merger will enable the schools SCHOOL
to share expertise as they build Final open morning for
upon a common vision of an all- prospective parents on
round education through which Thursday 6th January @
children enjoy school, learn, grow 9.30am for those interested in
in confidence and make a positive the 2022 reception intake
contribution to society. (ahead of the registration
The two schools have shared close deadline for 2022 entry of
ties since St Andrew’s was This partnership offers the schools character and traditions, and will 15th January)
opportunities for sharing strategic continue to be run on a day-to-day
established just two miles away
thinking and developments in basis by their own leadership MOULSFORD PREP SCHOOL
from Bradfield (formally St
teaching and learning, for teams, overseen by a single, Saturday 4th February,
Andrew’s College, Bradfield) in
enhanced curriculum and combined Governing Body and its
1934. Both schools enjoy beautiful 10am - 12pm and 1 – 3pm
professional development, for Committees. Each school will
locations, extensive grounds, continue to develop its own
better use and improvement of
excellent facilities, and a proud provision whilst building upon the ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE
facilities, and for delivering cost
heritage. Both have generated links that exist between them. St Thursday 20 January: Early
efficiencies through economies of
strong momentum in recent years, Andrew’s will continue to feed a Years – Year 6 Open Morning
scale. It will further strengthen both
establishing reputations for number of senior schools in the (09.30-11.00)
schools as they look towards the
educational excellence within a future. Berkshire area, and beyond, and Thursday 10 February:
nurturing environment Bradfield will continue to welcome Years 7 – 11 Open Morning
characterised by family values and St Andrew’s and Bradfield will each pupils from a wide range of feeder (09.30-11.15)
outstanding pastoral care. retain their individual identity, schools.
6 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham familiesonline.co.uk
Meet
THE
We recently caught up with Mr Ed Graham,
Head of St Andrew’s School, Pangbourne,
which is an established co-educational day
head and boarding Prep School for children
aged 3 to 13 (Nursery-Year 8), offering a
rounded education in the beautiful Berkshire
countryside.
When did you start at St Andrew’s, School now has 307 children, with parents can visit in the morning. namely race, gender, disability,
and what did you do before that? 153 boys and 154 girls. The main This is a great way for them to get sexuality, religion, age and poverty.
I started at St Andrew’s in Victorian Gothic part of the School, to know one another and feel a Actions from this are led by the
September 2021, having been ‘Buckhold’, built in 1885, was part of our community. Pre-Prep children, and they arrange for
Deputy Head for six out of the nine designed by acclaimed architect also shares pupils’ work and visiting speakers to come in and
years I was at Westminster Alfred Waterhouse, also known for photographs securely on a digital talk to the children.
Cathedral Choir School, where I designing the Natural History platform.
was also Head of English. Prior to Museum. What would you like to achieve
that, I worked in shipping in the Does the school work with the over the next couple of years and
City, trained as a teacher on the Are there any particular highlights local community in any way? beyond?
Teach First scheme, and spent four of the school year at St Andrew’s? We have a thriving programme of In December, we formed a new
years at Edinburgh University. We have many traditions unique to local charity work, led by the and exciting partnership with
our school, but the highlights have children’s Charity Committee. This Bradfield College, which saw two
How would you describe the to be celebrating St Andrew’s Day includes everything from Christmas charities merge to form the
ethos of St Andrew’s School? on the 30th November with toy collections and food bank Bradfield Group. Whilst this brings
St Andrew’s is a family-orientated Progressive Games (an afternoon donations; helping raise awareness opportunities for shared strategic
School that nurtures children to of team games in mixed year through sponsorship for Newbury thinking and new initiatives in
become grounded, confident groups); singing carols around the Riding for the Disabled, and teaching and learning - from
young people, who are both Christmas tree; Sports Day; night- supporting our local Children in enhanced curriculum to
curious and connected to the orienteering; and the Dolman Need action group. Our sports professional development - it also
world around them. We try and get cross-country run around our 54 centre (including the swimming means we can enhance and
the children to look outwards and beautiful acres. pool) is also used by local clubs improve our already-excellent
away from themselves. and schools. facilities.
We provide an all-round education How do you involve parents and We are expanding our use of
built upon academic excellence carers in children’s education? Do you have any specific technology, with children in the
and outstanding pastoral care. Parents and carers are actively approaches that encourage and older years using Surface Gos; and
encouraged to get involved in their embrace diversity? have plans to develop our boarding
Can you tell us a little about the child’s education as much as St Andrew’s has established a RIDE provision (currently space for 24
school’s history? possible. Aside from Parent (Respect, Inclusion, Diversity & children); Nursery offering (so we
St Andrew's was founded on 11th Evenings, they are invited to music Equality) committee made up of can cater for wrap-around care for
May 1934 with two staff and eight concerts, games fixtures, school Years 7 and 8, led by our Deputy 3-4 year-olds); and turn our Old
boys, under the leadership of joint productions, and book fairs. We Head Pastoral, Mr Haig Howard. Hall into a state-of-the-art creative
Headmasters RW Robertson also have our own coffee shop The aim is to promote the issues and drama space. It’s going to be a
Glasgow and W Ward Clarke. The onsite which, when COVID allows, that often divide our society, busy two years!
familiesonline.co.uk Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk Families Thames Valley West • 7
EDUCATION
Fun activities to support
children develop their
writing skills
Create obstacle courses that
require a wide range of
movements. Using a variety of
ball sizes for challenges is a great
way to get children developing
their motor skills through play.
Encourage fine motor skills
alongside gross motor skills;
picking up small objects, building
with blocks, threading beads,
using pens and cutlery are all
examples of fine motor skills.
Provide lots of mark-making
opportunities eg finger painting,
drawing with chalk on the
Learning to write By Catherine Lynch
ground, using crayons, pencils
and pens.
Help them get the correct pencil
Children need to develop lots of skills before they can write. The three main skills that build grip by using the ‘pinch and grip’
writing foundations are the physical ability to make marks on paper, knowing that print method.
conveys meaning and knowing what to write. Praise all their efforts; writing
skills take time to build.
I
n preparation, children need Fine motor skills, like picking up Next, children need to know what
to develop both their gross small objects follow. Children need they are going to write. Adults can Provide opportunities for
and fine motor skills. Gross to be given lots of opportunities to support children in this stage by children to apply their knowledge
motor skills develop first; move their bodies and build up the providing practical opportunities. of letter sounds, ege by writing
walking, jumping, throwing and muscles needed to sit in a chair, hold Writing shopping lists together is a secret words and secret
a pen and write. great way to get children writing for a sentences.
reaching.
purpose.
Make use of free resources
And now to the basics of getting
available as downloads for home
marks on paper. Children’s first marks
practice. There are many ideas
on paper start with squiggles and for play activities, tips to get
scribbles. With practice, their marks parents and children started,
become more controlled and they word tracing sheets, handwriting
may start to ascribe meaning, for guides, letter formation
example, scribbling lines on paper worksheets and posters. Good
and saying it is a list of their friends. resources include
As children’s awareness of letters
www.planbee.com,
increases they will start to use letter
www.jellyandbean.co.uk,
shapes in their writing. Familiar letters
www.teachhandwriting.co.uk
might start appearing among their
and www.teachingideas.co.uk.
squiggles and shapes.
The next stage is using their
phonetic knowledge to identify By the end of Year 1 children
which letters to write. Phonics should have been taught most of the
explain the relationship between letter sounds in the English language,
sounds and letters. Typically children complete with alternative spellings
start by hearing and writing the initial and sound groupings. For example,
sounds in words, for example ‘c’ for the many ways to write the /ai/
cat and ‘a’ for apple. As their phonic sound in sail, crayon, lake, weigh,
knowledge improves they will start to grey, reindeer, break and acorn.
hear and write more sounds in Initially children won’t typically use
words. It is common for children to the correct spelling of the sound;
reverse letters, miss out sounds and however, the more they read the
muddle up letters for the first few better they will get at recognising
years that they are writing. when a spelling looks right.
Catherine Lynch is a former UK primary school teacher, now writing for
PlanBee (www.planbee.com) about issues affecting teachers, schools
and pupils. PlanBee has lots of completely free resources for teaching
and learning for home and school.
8 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham familiesonline.co.uk
Print book or e-books
What’s best for our children?
By Lulu Skantze
E lectronic devices enable us to
access, at the touch of a finger,
millions of e-books at a lower cost
the habit of reading through
mindfulness. They slow us down
and enable us to engage with a
and with easier storage than printed book with no sounds, distractions or
books. Most children’s books and screen glare. Reading printed books
magazines are now available in teaches us to connect with the
digital format too. This makes sense present moment and be in the
as many children use electronic reading space, which is a wonderful
devices at an early age. While it is thing to learn and a habit to develop
important to embrace all that will be useful for life.
technologies and see stories Shared reading
available in all formats, printed Printed books make shared reading
materials have an essential role in easier than e-books. Shared reading
developing young readers. is incredibly important when it As you read to your child, get them vocabulary.
comes to encouraging a child to involved from the start. Can they When you find a complex idea or
Deep Reading read. A book allows for more guess what the story might be about sentence, stop and ask your child
‘Deep reading’ is an important discovery and children can interact from the title? whether they understand.
process which is activated when with it for longer in a more engaging Follow each word of the story with Point to the illustrations, ask your
reading from paper and particularly way, as well as being able to colour your finger, so your child can child who the characters are and
applies when reading high-quality, in, draw, underline words and so on. associate the sounds they’re hearing what happens next. This helps build
long texts. Screens affect our with the letters they see. anticipation and encourages
reading processes and the more we Reading for pleasure Encourage your child to read out participation.
read short texts on screen, the more Studies have found that reading for loud with you when reading When reading aloud, put lots of
our reading shifts towards pleasure plays a huge role in a rhymes and repetitive stories. expression into your reading, so
skimming. Consequently, our child’s confidence, personal Ask your child to listen and repeat your child can copy what you’re
tolerance for reading long literary development and academic unfamiliar or hard-to-pronounce doing.
texts diminishes and we lose the achievement. It is so important that words. This will help their When you’ve finished, ask questions
benefits of using the cognitive reading for pleasure now forms part pronunciation. Talk about what the about the characters and what
processes that deep reading of the National Curriculum. If you word might mean to help build their happened to them.
involves. In addition, reading from read books to your children, you will
devices involves juggling multiple engage them in a magical world of
distractions, such as interactive stories, adventures and fantasy. It
touchscreens, hyperlinks and alerts, will be a gift that lasts a lifetime.
which move our attention away
from what’s being read. This Shared reading tips
adversely affects our Sit together with your child so that
comprehension and reading speed. your they can see the pages you’re
Mindful reading reading.
Printed books help children develop
Reading for pleasure
Reading is fun, entertaining and reads to you. Dig deep into the
relaxing; it also improves writing, stories with them.
spelling and vocabulary and • Value the importance of books,
increases general knowledge and magazines and stories. Discuss them
understanding of other people and with your child and ask why they like
cultures. Here’s how you can help certain books.
your child to fall in love with • Don’t leave home without a book
reading: so that your child can read
• Make reading part of your child’s anywhere.
routine and life. • Join your local library and visit it
• Have old and new books around at with your child so they can choose
home and treasure them. and borrow books they are
• Pick books that are at the interested in and discover new
appropriate level for your child. authors for free.
• Put aside quality time to read • Exchange books with friends.
together every day, even if only for • Treat your child to a magazine
ten minutes. subscription or book vouchers for
• Listen attentively when your child special occasions.
Lulu Skantze is co-founder of Storytime, a high-quality monthly
magazine that helps to improve children's literacy - with no adverts or
plastic toys, just great stories. Visit www.storytimemagazine.com
familiesonline.co.uk Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk Families Thames Valley West • 9
By Lesley Chambers, editor
Language Learning for Children children in terms of developing their curiosity
and empathy.”
As a former languages teacher, language (French and Italian were cited), which were
Ricardo Barreto, who teaches Spanish and
learning has always been a passion in addition to enjoyed for their fun elements, for example “an
Portuguese locally, agrees: “Learning foreign
a profession, and my love of other languages annual ‘French café’ when the teacher brings in
languages has a very particular impact on one’s
and cultures has shaped my life, including living (French) food and the pupils have to ask for it in brain. It is also a powerful key that can open
abroad and having enriching friendships with French”. valuable doors in the real world, allowing
wonderful people from different parts of the It seems therefore that many local parents are purposeful interactions with other people and
world. keen for their children to learn a foreign cultures, as well as widening one’s professional
I have always hoped to share this passion with language before secondary school but that this prospects.”
my children but have struggled to find has to be fun and lively in order to catch the The message is that these skills are still
opportunities for children to learn languages interest of children. I spoke to Cari Weston of relevant, still fun and still incredibly beneficial on
locally. My son had a fantastic, French-speaking BilinguaSing, who runs bilingual music classes many levels: language learning in the UK is very
childminder when he was one, and he came to from ages 0-11 in French, Spanish and Italian in much alive and necessary!
understand what she said to him and spoke the Wokingham and Bracknell area.
Cari’s classes are part of a holistic, multi- If you would like to find out more about Cari’s
several French words himself, which was
sensory experience, where babies and children classes, contact cari@bilinguasing.com or
exciting! However, the childminder moved on
can start to learn foreign languages in a fun and 07729 261018.
to other work, and my son became half-hearted
engaging way. The focus is firmly on being To enquire about private Spanish or Portuguese
about speaking French after that.
positive about learning languages, and she lessons, contact Ricardo at
In researching this article I spoke to several
states, “As someone who studied languages, I'd ricardobarreto.mflteacher@gmail.com.
families in the Thames Valley West area, two of
always said that I didn't want to be a teacher.
whom had a parent whose first language was
However, the BilinguaSing classes are such a fun
not English. These families were bringing their and innovative way to teach, I could see how
children up to be bilingual (Japanese / English engaged the children were and I felt I would be
and Russian / English), but they were also really able to do this. I've also always loved music,
positive about other languages for their children: singing and dancing, so this is a perfect
Tatiana said that her sons were learning French combination for me!”
as well, and James said he thought children in As well as the uplifting feelings
the UK should be taught another language. experienced during the classes, Cari is
Unfortunately, my son, now nine, has lost enthusiastic about the wider benefits
interest in learning another language, and of learning languages: “It also opens
another mum I spoke to said of her nine-year- children's minds up to the fact that
old, “Sadly, my daughter hasn’t been interested other people are different - they eat
in learning another language.” Perhaps children different food, have different traditions,
just don’t see this as an interesting activity? even celebrate Christmas differently! It
Nevertheless, several parents mentioned gives them another perspective on the
language clubs at their children’s schools world, which I think can only benefit
Speech and Language Therapy Help for my child
or EAL support By Camilla Crystal Mental Health
Time to Talk
Many of you will be reflecting on recent years and wondering whether we will be Kooth
waving goodbye to COVID-19 this year as well as recovering from the impact of Emotional Health Triage service
Brexit. I sincerely hope so! (servicesguide.reading.gov.uk and
In the context of health and education, Speech • being able to say sounds in speech (except /th/ directory.westberks.gov.uk)
and Language Therapists (SLTs) and educators and /r/ and three-consonant combinations e.g. Legal advice and support
have adapted tremendously during the pandemic str) IPSEA (ipsea.org.uk)
via video-conferencing platforms. Nevertheless, I Contact (Contact.org.uk)
CAN, a reputable charity, has reported that ‘up to Visit the ‘progress checker’ via SaLTNHScypf.berkshirehealthcare.nhs.uk.
1.5 million children face being left behind in their talkingpoint.org.uk and the Centre for Disease ASLTIP (helpwithtalking.com).
speaking and understanding due to disruption Control and Prevention for milestones: ICAN (ican.org.uk/i-cans-talking-point)
caused by Covid.’ (Source: Speaking up for the https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/mileston afasic.org.uk
Covid Generation) es/index.html Tuition
Tutor Doctor (tutordoctor.co.uk)
How do you know if your child needs Speech English as an Additional Language (EAL)
and Language Therapy? A pre-schooler by the age of four will be exposed
Once your child is in school, if they are struggling to both their home language (if they’re bilingual)
with forming friendships and understanding what and their second language (at the educational
is expected of them, they may be experiencing a setting). If your child is not acquiring vocabulary Help for me
developmental delay/disorder. Contact your typical for their age in their first language, one
SENCO, particularly if your child has problems needs to consider if there is a delay. Workingmums.co.uk
with: climbingout.org.uk
• abstract ideas e.g. time Camilla Crystal is an Independent Speech Mentalhealth.org.
• understanding or remembering instructions and Language Therapist and Teacher of Ukfrontline19.com
• organising ideas in order English as a Foreign Language. Contact: Resources
• understanding stories camilla@ccsandl.onmicrosoft.com Twinkl.co.uk
• missing out words in sentences e.g. “bird Chatterpack.net
or call 07581 067 499.
garden” instead of “a bird is in the garden”
10 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham familiesonline.co.ukWhen friendships go wrong By Clare Cogan
Friendships can be a
challenge throughout our
lives; from our own school
playground days to when
we’re back there as parents.
Late primary school age often
brings significant shifts in
friendships. If your child has been
in a ‘group’ or has a ‘best friend,’
you might observe fall outs which
can include exclusions from
invitations and activities. These
ever-shifting sands can lead to
tears, sleepless nights and worries.
It’s time to help your tween
navigate some of these trickier
times and support them. Part of
building that all-important
resilience in life is to help them
deal with and learn from difficult
times. You are their guiding light in
this regard.
Take a moment.... and a step back. they are not alone, even when it Know that it is not okay for your young person to become aware of
The drama itself is easy to get feels like they are. This sharing can child to be on the receiving end of this behaviour and how it can
embroiled in, especially if you are carry more weight than just these remarks, even though they affect them can also be a powerful
friends with the parents whose reassuring them that things will ‘get are difficult to challenge. They can tool to support them in navigating
children are involved. Despite the better.’ chip away at a child’s self-esteem tricky friendships.
temptation, texting or picking up and confidence. Helping your
the phone to discuss the issue is Spend time helping them to think
not always helpful and can be about what they value in friendship,
counterproductive. As children such as honesty, kindness,
start to move towards transition to trustworthiness. Talk about why
secondary school, we need to give others choose them to be their
them the tools and resources to friend and point to what makes a
cope with friendship challenges, good friend when times are tough.
not always step in and sort it out
ourselves. What is a frenemy?
This is probably the most useful
Be aware that some of what might term I ever learnt as an adult!
be happening may trigger
memories of your own experiences A frenemy is a ‘friend’ who can flip
at school which may not be between being kind and caring,
directly related to your child’s issue. inclusive and supportive, to being
This often happened with me when disparaging, critical and unkind. It is
we had challenges with our boys the friend where you never really
and friendships. My inner lioness know where you stand. If you
would spark off straight away in challenge their unkindness, put
response to these issues based on downs or insults, they will usually
my own childhood challenges. respond with: ‘I'm just joking,’ ‘I can
say that to you because you’re my
Use your own experiences of friend,’ ‘You’re being over-sensitive'
difficult friendships or times when or other similar responses
you have moved away from friends including that over-used and
and made new ones to help your dishonest current cop-out: ‘It’s just
children understand that it is okay banter,’ which appear to excuse
for things to change. Children love their behaviour. As the saying goes,
stories, no matter what age they with friends like these, who needs
are and yours will help them realise enemies?
Clare Cogan is a teenage anxiety specialist and author who works with
parents and their teens to help them understand how their mind affects
their mood. More information at www.clarecogan.com
familiesonline.co.uk Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk Families Thames Valley West • 11GET OUTDOORS!
Maiden Erlegh
Nature Reserve,
Lakeside, Earley,
Reading, RG6 7PH
Ditch the screens and get outdoors! We have some It includes a gentle – and manageable for small legs –
beautiful natural spaces in this area, and going for a walk stroll around a lake, where there are plenty of ducks and
with the family is a great way to spend time together. other birds to be seen, or you might like to veer off and
I discovered this hidden gem during the first lockdown. run around in the open space of the adjoining Laurel Park.
The park is some twelve hectares in The park is in several “parcels”, inspected by a Consultant Engineer which was launched and put into
extent and is classified as a local which are described on the various once or twice each year. place behind the island on 28th
nature reserve. It is managed on interpretation boards around the January 2016.
the town council’s behalf by its site. The lake area, between Instow The Park Rangers in conjunction
Park Ranger Service with the help Road and Lakeside, is managed with the Earley Volunteer Group Earley-tc.gov.uk/maiden-erlegh-
of volunteer groups. under the Reservoirs Act and is have made a tern nesting platform nature-reserve
Please get in touch if you know of a local family-friendly walk: editor@familiestvw.co.uk. We’d love to share it in the magazine!
How to make a Pinecone Owl... The Big Garden
Little Muddy Boots run outdoor nature and gardening classes for toddlers and pre-schoolers
throughout Berkshire, they also sell a series of seasonal activity cards packed full of craft and
Birdwatch 2022
activity ideas for your little ones. Here Little Muddy Boots share instructions of how to make a Get your family involved in the RSPB Big
pinecone owl for you to make at home. Garden Birdwatch and help monitor bird life in
the UK.
What you need Simply count the birds you see in your
• One pinecone garden, from your balcony or in your local park
• Cotton wool for one hour between 28 and 30 January.
Challenge your children to see who can spot
• Two leaves
the most birds. Take a bike ride to a local park
• Yellow or Orange Cardboard or make a day trip out of it and spot birds in a
• Two googly eyes new place.
• PVA Glue You can also watch Big Garden Birdwatch
Live! on Youtube and Facebook to see what
Instructions birds are being spotted across the UK with live
commentary, interviews and chats with special
1. Get your pinecone and push the cotton wool guests and wildlife experts and the chance to
into the pinecone ask them questions.
2. Now push the two leaves into the pinecone, Register and get your FREE guide at
one on each side to make the wings. www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch
3. Cut a triangle out of the card and glue it on
to the front of the pinecone to make the owls
beak.
5. Let it dry and fly your owl around!
4. Now glue on the two googly eyes above the
beak. *Supervise activity at all times.
Also...
As an additional activity why not take a trip to your local library to find some books on owls. Little
Muddy Boots recommend Owl Babies by Martin Waddell
Your local woodland is a great place to find pinecones on the ground during the winter months.
Swinley Forest in Bracknell, Simon’s Wood in Finchampstead and Lily Hill Park in Bracknell are all
great places to find pinecones!
Find out more about Little Muddy Boots by visiting their website www.littlemuddyboots.co.uk.
12 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham familiesonline.co.ukWhy Aiyven and Kirsten are
Happier Every Chapter
Sisters Aiyven (age 12) and Kirsten (age 13) both love writing stories and both published debut novels
in 2020. Families talks to them to find out more about their writing and their achievements.
What made you start writing stories? instead of feet. Because of her differences she is faced with the threat of being taken over by a
Our parents read stories to us every night when is imprisoned in what she calls The Kennel. It scandalous man, and it is up to Hayden and a
we were young, which opened up whole new was such fun to write and I almost felt like I few of his friends to overcome him.
worlds to us. From around the age of 4 or 5, was going through life in the kennel with
we were folding pieces of paper into cards and Lizzie! K: My book, Sagas of Anya, is a historical fiction
writing stories inside them - and just never novel which follows the life of a young Welsh
stopped! Do you work together on stories or write girl. When her mother tragically dies from a
them separately? long term illness and her father turns to drink
What do you like best about writing stories? We each write separate short stories although as a coping mechanism, Anya is forced to
The best thing is how in a few hours, a new occasionally we’ll share ideas and give each move to Victorian era London. The London life
universe can sprout out of thin air. other tips. isn’t all glitz and glam however, as she comes
to terms with the hardships of living as a
How many stories have you written? Do you make a plan for your stories before scullery maid.
A lot of our early stories were on laptops we you write?
don’t have anymore but every month we write When we were younger, we often just typed Any advice for other children who’d like to
short stories for our book subscription box. whatever came to mind, which can result in an start writing?
Over time, we’ve written at least thirty stories unusual plot and a storyline that doesn’t flow A: Manage your time as well as possible. You
each. That’s excluding our books. very well. Now, we plan the beginning, build- have plenty of time to produce a good piece of
up, climax, resolution and ending. Once you writing, no one is rushing you. Prioritise the
Which is your favourite? have those five factors planned, it’s just a most important things first, like getting your
A: My favourite short story is Scapegoat Kid. It’s matter of connecting the dots. homework done. You’ll be happier and freer to
about a boy called Tom whose parents are write that way.
splitting up. As the oldest of many children, he Tell us about the books you have published
finds all of the responsibility turns to him. Tom A: My book is called Land of the Nurogons: The K: Plan or plot the rough idea in your head
becomes distant from the people closest to Zest for Quest. It tells the story of a young boy before jumping straight into your story. Also, I
him and falls in with the wrong crowd. I feel it called Hayden who lives a relatively normal life, find it quite constricting to have a set title as it
is one of my most powerful short stories. I until the day he plummets through a black hole means your story must follow what your title is.
think that even if people haven’t experienced into a parallel dimension, Nurogonia. The world It will be easier once the story is finished.
the situations that occur in the story, they’d feel
just as touched.
Aiyven and Kirsten launched their Happier Ever Chapter monthly subscription box in November
2020, promoting reading for pleasure, literacy and diversity among their peers aged 8 to 14
K: So far, my favourite short story is Life in the
(www.mbawabooks.co.uk). Each box includes two bestselling books (one being diverse), two
Kennel which is about a girl called Elizabeth...
short stories written by the girls, activity sheets and 4-6 lifestyle items. They also offer boxes for
but not a human girl. Elizabeth is different, she
younger readers aged 4 to 7.
has wings sprouting from her back and claws
familiesonline.co.uk Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk Families Thames Valley West • 13Perform weekly drama, dance and singing
Clubs and classes directory classes
Confidence-building fun for 4-12s. A unique
mix of drama games, dance and singing
Regular clubs, classes and activities give your child a chance to develop new skills and
specially designed to boost confidence,
make new friends, and there is lots to choose from. For more clubs and classes in your
communication, concentration and
area, check out familiesonline.co.uk. coordination. Classes are delivered in line with
Please get in touch if you would like to be included in our directory: government COVID-19 guidelines. Visit
editor@familiestvw.co.uk. perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class.
Venues: Newbury, Twyford, Caversham, Earley,
Wokingham, Winnersh, Crowthorne, Henley-
Developmental classes There is a maximum of 6 children per class. We on-Thames and Goring.
are currently looking for a private indoor, Contact: 020 7255 9120,
heated pool, 1 or 2 weekday mornings, for enquiries@perform.org.uk, perform.org.uk
The Academy of Magic much needed community baby & toddler
Created by Radek Hoffman, an international classes in the Newbury / Hungerford area!
magician with 15 years of experience in the art jo@swimlessons.co.uk
of magic. The Academy of Magic shares www.swimlessons.co.uk
Radek’s enthusiasm for entertainment and
performance with young magicians through Reading Swimming Club
weekly online lessons. Fun and exciting after Formed in 1885, the club offers a structured
school clubs instil confidence, nurtures self- learn to swim programme, squad training for all
esteem and helps to develop children’s social ages and competition opportunities from
skills. Visit radekhoffman.com for more within the club, up through to county, regional
information or to sign up for a free trial and national level. We are keen to welcome
session. Suitable for children aged 8+. new members of all ages and abilities. Please
Stageability
contact readingswimclub.org or email
Award-winning after-school drama
info@readingswimclub.org
classes for kids who love to ACT!
Music Burghfield, Tilehurst, Lower Earley,
Mortimer and Wokingham.
High-energy classes mean that students
never get bored, can't wait to get to class
and develop confidence, creativity and
focus.
Free trial class and a Pay-As-You-Go
option for infants. Ages 5+ Full listing of
BilinguaSing Wokingham available classes, prices and venues at:
and Bracknell https://stageability.class4kids.co.uk
French, Spanish and Italian classes from Come and join the fun!
age 0-11 in the Wokingham and Bracknell
area. We run fun sensory music classes E: jackie@berkshire.stageability.co.uk M:
for babies and toddlers with the added 07721 565898 T: 0118 933 3791
bonus of a second language! You don't Henley Youth Choir
need to know any languages to take part, Non-Auditioned Youth Choir. Rehearsals
but as our songs are in English as well, I every Thursday in Term Time: 5.30-
guarantee you'll be singing along in no 6.15pm for Juniors (7-11yrs), 6.15-7.00pm
time! We offer one-off trial classes as well for Seniors (12-17yrs).
as bookings by the term. Location: the D:Two Community Centre
We also run classes in private nurseries in the centre of Henley-on-Thames.
and lunch clubs for primary school Parking nearby.
aged children.
Fees are £60 for 12 rehearsals.
Please contact Cari Weston at Progress Youth Theatre
cari@bilinguasing.com or call Contact Fi Harding on 07947 658252 or
email fi.harding@sky.com, and come for Workshops for ages 7-18 involving theatre
07729261018 for more information
a free trial session! games, improvisation and skills
development, leading to a stage
Gym, sport and swimming production every year.
Drama and dance
We are an Arts Award Supporter and also
Bulmershe Gymnastics Club offer LAMDA courses.
Based at a purpose-built gym in Woodley, run Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow
Classes held at Progress Theatre, Reading.
gymnastics classes for all ages including Leap COVID secure, fun, energetic theatre classes
Frogs for walkers to five years lead by qualified for 3½ to 18yrs. Dance, drama, singing, tap, Book a FREE taster session by emailing:
coaches. bulmershegymnastics.co.uk street dance, pop styles and musical theatre. youthgroup@progresstheatre.co.uk
Regular award-winning classes in Wokingham
GR Swimming Schools and Woodley, plus summer schools. Call Learn more at:
Uniquely structured, safe, FUN, swimming Shelley on 07970 034 488, or email progresstheatre.co.uk/youth-theatre
lessons from 3 years old. Lessons include shelley@steppinoutstars.co.uk,
continual assessment and lane progression. steppinoutstars.co.uk
14 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham familiesonline.co.ukClubs and classes news
Outdoor Activities Pregnancy
JG Dance
Classes from 2.5 years to 18 years for all
abilities in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Singing,
Acrobatics & Drama. Twice Yearly Theatre
Performances.
FREE TRIAL LESSON
Saturday Theatre College (Twyford) RAD
Happy Births
Hypnobirthing classes, Antenatal
Ballet, ISTD modern & Tap LAMDA singing !
education, Bespoke birth preparation
& Drama. Grades to Vocational Exams.
coaching, Birth trauma recovery therapy
Classes on Tuesday – Woodley, Little Muddy Boots Preparation is key when it comes to
Wednesday-Bourne-End, Thursday – Little Muddy Boots is an established maximising the likelihood of a positive
Tilehurst & Twyford, Saturday- Sonning unique garden and nature club, which birth experience. Marvel at your body's
Common, Kidmore End & Basingstoke inspires outdoor play, hands on learning amazing abilities, get informed about your
and time spent as a family making options, learn skills to enable you to make
01491 572000 info@jgdance.co.uk
memories. the right choices for you, develop a
WWW.JGDANCE.CO.UK
practice of gorgeous relaxation
Termly sessions are available alongside techniques, and get your partner trained
PAYG Saturday clubs and Forest School
To advertise in
up to be the best support on the day. You
holiday sessions. deserve to feel confident and calm about
this super exciting journey to meeting
Suitable for children aged 1 - 6 years old
your baby.
(siblings welcome). Little Muddy Boots is
based at sites located across Berkshire. Contact Sarah Collison on 07740349946
or email sarah.happybirths@gmail.com,
please email To find out more visit
www.littlemuddyboots.co.uk or email
and see www.happybirths.net for positive
birth stories and testimonials from
editor@familiestvw.co.uk hello@littlemuddyboots.co.uk working with Sarah.
Happy, Confident New Year from Perform
Perform, the UK’s biggest centrally-run drama Local Perform classes available:
school, is getting 2022 off to a flying start with
a new term of classes focusing on building Twyford Youth Centre, 3 Loddon Road,
confidence and social skills. Twyford, RG10 9JA
(Age 4-7: Saturdays at 9:30am, Wednesdays
How have your children adjusted after the at 4pm, age 7-12: Wednesdays at 5:05pm,
pandemic? Many have struggled to reconnect Saturdays at 11:15pm)
and re-establish their old friendships and
confidence. Child psychologist and author, St. John The Evangelist, St. John’s Road,
Linda Blair, says that classes like these: “can Newbury, RG14 7PY
help children recover from social isolation as (Age 4-7: Saturdays at 9:30am, Fridays at 4pm,
they encourage communication and effective age 7-12: Saturdays at 11:15am, Fridays
social interactions. Drama helps a child’s ability at 5:05pm)
to understand and interpret things like eye St. Andrew’s Hall, Albert Road, Caversham,
contact and can help in countless other ways Reading, RG4 7AW
The Crowthorne Methodist Church Hall,
both socially and cognitively.” (Age 4-7: Saturdays at 9:30am and 11:15am,
10 Dukes Ride, Crowthorne, RG45 6LT
age 7-12: Saturdays at 2pm)
Fortunately, Perform classes are packed with (Age 4-7: Fridays at 4pm, age 7-12: Fridays
confidence-boosting drama-based games and The Cornerstone Community Centre, Norreys at 5:05pm)
activities, allowing every child to shine as we Avenue, Wokingham, RG40 1UE
St. Nicolas Church Hall, Sutcliffe Avenue,
explore two exciting termly themes. (Age 4-7: Fridays at 4pm, Saturdays at 9:30am
Earley, Reading, RG6 7JN
and 2pm, age 7-12: Fridays at 5:05pm, Saturdays
Children ages 4 to 7 will trek off on a jungle (Age 4-7: Wednesdays at 4pm, age 7-12:
at 11:15am)
adventure while ages 7 to 12 enjoy a thrilling Wednesdays at 5:05pm)
adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. What’s more, Winnersh Community Centre, New Road,
Goring Village Hall, High Street, Goring-on-
Perform’s jungle theme becomes a West End Sindlesham, Wokingham, RG40 1XS THIS IS A
Thames, RG8 9AG
musical during February half-term, featuring a NEW VENUE!
(Age 4-7: Mondays at 4pm, age 7-12: Mondays
professional adult cast, stunning costumes and (Age 4-7: Mondays at 3:45pm, age 7-12:
at 5:05pm)
fabulous music. Visit junglerumble.show. Mondays at 4:50pm)
Henley Town Hall, Elizabeth Hall 2, Market
To book a no-obligation FREE trial, visit www.perform.org.uk/try with code TVW70222, Place, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2AQ
or use code TVW70222 for a £40 discount when you book by 7th February. (Age 4-7: Fridays at 4pm, age 7-12: Fridays
at 5:05pm)
familiesonline.co.uk Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk Families Thames Valley West • 15You can also read
