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Families Oxfordshire magazine provides useful in-depth features for 1000's of parents in Oxfordshire. Providing regular information on local clubs and classes and what's on in every issue and it's FREE! Visit us online or check your child's book bag for your copy. Or get in touch and we'll ensure you receive Families Oxfordshire!
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7 STEPS to a smarter child
FREE Potty training book give-away page 4SEE What’s On and more clubs & classes
How to STOP fussy eating!
DON’T MISS March/April’s issue for a huge baby feature and spring day’s out!
FREEIssue 59
January - February 2014
Watch your child’s self-esteem soarwith our weekly classes for 4–12s
Child development is at the heart of everything we do. So our drama, dance and singing sessionswill boost your child’s confidence, improve their
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Call 0845 400 1276 or visit perform.org.uk
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Confidence Building Fun
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Contents
02 & 04 News and views
05 SCHOOL MATTERS
06 WHAT’S THE RIGHT AGE TO START SCHOOL? Too Much Too Soon.
07 HOW TO STOP FUSSY EATING!
08 EDUCATION NEWS
09 HOLIDAYSHow to have a proper holiday when you’re parents
10 HOW TO SERIES: Overcome bed wetting
11 7 STEPS TO A SMARTER CHILD
12/13 LOCAL CLUBS AND CLASSES
14/15 WHATS ON
Oxfordshire
Contact: Ema Murphy - EditorT: 01993 815966 / 07733 228 038
E: [email protected]: familiesoxfordshire.co.uk
Social networking find us on
Specially tailored curriculum
Extra-curricular programme of clubs & activities after school and during holidays
For boys and girls from age 2 upwards 8am – 6pm throughout the year
Email: [email protected] Tel : 01491 651218
OPEN MORNING 14 FEBRUARY 2014, 10 am - 12 noon
NURSERY
Little Willows, the large, newly designed Nursery School for Cranford House
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Families Oxfordshire designed by Dickidot Limited. 01865 400801 www.dickidot.com
Front cover by marksandspencer.com
News & views
tuitionEnglishMaths &
Book your free trial session today to find out how Explore Learning can help your child to gain confidence, enthusiasm and new skills.
“The hesitancy and lack of confidence that held her back is gone. Now she tries new things with relish. She counts the days until she can come back here!” Explore Parent.
Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to children aged 5-14, designed to improve knowledge, confidence and enjoyment of learning.
Explore helps children make fantastic academic progress, in addition the vibrant atmosphere keeps them engaged and focussed enabling them to have fun while they learn.
As members, children work with tutors who are great role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. The individual focus allows children to work at their own pace – whether they are finding school tricky or are top of the class!
www.explorelearning.co.uk/oxford
01865 595 509Inside Sainsbury’s, Oxford
USE THEM AT EXPLORE!
CHILDCARE
VO U C H E RS?
Families Oxfordshire.indd 1 01/08/2012 14:55
Hair Removal Even Improves LivesFor years, 36 year old Louisa from Kennington in Oxford, had a real issue with thick dark facial hair, to the point that it really got her down. She was so self-conscious and it got worse after the birth of her baby son.
After trying everything to
get rid of it – which became a daily process of plucking and shaving, she discovered IPL (intense pulse light) and decided to give it a try. IPL works by destroying the root of the hair in its growth stage, so it can no longer grow back.
After a course of just seven treatments, she noticed great improvement. The growth was much slower and the hair was less dense. Her facial hair had
dramatically reduced and in some areas disappeared. Her skin also looked better after IPL.
Louisa said: “I can honestly say having this treatment has made such a difference to my self-esteem. I am so pleased that I’ve decided to start treating other ‘hairy’ parts of my body. To save so much time and to make me feel even better!”
Contact Julie Mutton at Bare UK on 07773 764817 or visit www.bareuk.co.uk.
Give Your Child Confidence
Talking Tips for Kids is a new website and free App by Oxford Speech Therapist Fiona Barry, giving parents the tools to give children a head start in communicating. Downloadable from talkingtipsforkids.com or through free app.
Autism ChampionsOxford’s New Autism ChampionDeirdre Nic Sitric, founder of Autism Champions works with children and adults who have a diagnosis of autism. She runs training for parents, carers and professionals and works 1:1 with children in school and runs intensive communication groups in Oxfordshire. Contact Dee on [email protected] or call 07810 205 646.
Explore Wins For Innovation Explore Learning, the English and maths tuition company, has won an ‘innovation award’ in the Mumsnet Family Friendly Awards announced at an event hosted by the Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg. They currently have one Oxford centre inside Sainsbury’s, Heyford Hill. www.explorelearning.co.uk
Lucky winnerAlbania Grosso of Faringdon.
Thank you to everyone who entered and watch out for more great give-aways in future issues.
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January / February 2014
Oxfordshire
3Advertise in Families Oxfordshire call 01993 815966 or email [email protected]
School mattersNews & views
StagecoachTheatre Arts
Learn to Sing, Dance and ActBoosts self-esteem and confidence • Fosters creativity
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Skills for life • Stretches imaginations
Exciting performance opportunities - and lots of fun!
OXFORD 01869 278600Maya Sprigg email: [email protected]
ABINGDON 01865 390970Julia Howson email: [email protected]
BANBURY 01908 969467Melissa Allen email: [email protected]
THAME 01865 763767Nicky Goodwin email: [email protected]
www.stagecoach.co.uk
Limitedplaces - book now!
Holiday Shows SPRING SUMMEROxford CATS FAME/The Princess & The PiratesAbingdon Meerkat Manners Call for detailsBanbury - Call for detailsThame The Magic of Movies Robin Hood
Fast growing dark hair, shaving and waxing could be a thing of the past.
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Another Amazing Show by Creation
What a fantastic performance by the Creation Theatre in December, with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe at the North Wall. They just never cease to amaze me with astounding performers, drama and costumes. We can’t wait to discover what’s next. To book your child on to a Put on a Play in a Week Workshop for 6-8 and 9-12 year olds in February half term, call 01865 766266 or visit creationtheatre.co.uk. Photo by Richard Budd.
New Services for Busy Mums
Mummy’s Maid has been described as “The World’s Best Kept Secret” by its’ clients and three years on, it is still providing high quality housekeeping, cleaning and childcare to busy families in Oxfordshire. They now provide more services including childcare, elderly companionship, and support during an illness. Or, for a personal assistant, someone to organise workmen, or to help with the arrival of a new baby, Mummy’s Maid can help. There are no lengthy contracts or yearly membership fees. Call 0845 463 0075 for a free consultation or visit www.mummysmaid.co.uk
Mummy’s Maid are recruiting and need more caring, reliable staff. If you have experience with childcare, housekeeping, cleaning, personal assistance or elderly care please send your CV to [email protected].
Run Five Miles, Raise Big Smiles
The Oxford Mail OX5RUN is a five mile run around Blenheim Palace on Sunday 30 March. It’s the biggest annual fundraiser for the Oxford Children’s Hospital, which looks after thousands of children. It costs £10 to enter, either on your own, or as a team of five or more. So raise big smiles when you run five miles. Sign up at www.hospitalcharity.co.uk/ox5run or call 01865 743444.
Helping Parents Back to Work.
The Work & Family ShowThe first ever Work & Family Show is set to launch in 2014 alongside the popular Baby Show at London’s ExCeL, aimed at helping working parents and career break women access advice, inspiration and ideas to help them create a happy and healthy work-life balance. It’ll be packed with experts and employers on the lookout for motivated staff. Parents considering starting up their own business can also chat through ideas with experts and gain valuable career advice. Organised by Clarion Events and My Family Care, on 21-22 Feb. Visit www.theworkandfamilyshow.co.uk.
NCT Oxon Launches Antenatal Courses
‘NCT Essentials’ are designed to meet the needs of busy parents and those on a budget and are more structured than traditional NCT courses on early parenting. Course start from £70-£110. For classes near you visit www.nct.org.uk/courses/antenatal.
d’Overbroeck’s receives excellent reportd’Overbroeck’s College has received a top accolade in its recent inspection by the ISI (the Independent Schools Inspectorate). The College was found to be ‘extremely successful’ in meeting its educational aims and rated ‘Excellent’, the highest rating given in ISI inspections, in each one of the following aspects:
• ‘The quality of students’ achievements’
• ‘The contribution of curricular and extra-curricular provision’
• ‘The contribution of teaching’
• ‘The students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development’
• ‘Arrangements for pastoral care’
• ‘The contribution of welfare, health and safety’
• ‘The quality of boarding’ and ‘the outcomes for boarders’
• ‘Leadership and management’.
‘This inspection report means a very great deal to us’, says Principal, Sami Cohen. ‘It is an important affirmation of what we all, students and staff, work hard to achieve. It captures the energy of the place and its vibrant and distinctive ethos. It also firmly establishes d’Overbroeck’s as a school that is highly effective in enabling its students to achieve outstanding outcomes – academically, in extra-curricular activities and in terms of their broader personal development and preparation for the next stage in their lives.’
d’Overbroeck’s Open Morning takes place on Saturday 01 February at 10.00am – 1.00pm.
Phonics is fun!
Abingdon Prep is a leading school for phonics teaching, advising other schools and nurseries in the area. The Prep School’s teaching is based on the Read, Write Inc. phonics scheme and is used from Reception to Year 3. Rachel Pairman, Head of Phonics said: ‘We have adapted the Read, Write Inc. scheme to suit the boys; it is engaging and fun using games and interaction which they really enjoy, their progress is impressive’.
The scheme has been used by the Prep School for five years. Teaching takes place in small groups with a ratio of 1:6 for the younger children. Groups are based on ability and are very dynamic, with each child receiving regular assessments.
The phonics teaching relies on variety and hands on learning to create interest and enthusiasm. The methods used are exciting and fun, encouraging recognition of words at an early stage which in turn builds confidence and self-esteem.
Teachers are passionate about what they achieve at Abingdon Prep. Phonics is taught every day of the week with the fifth day being ‘Red Word Friday’ which concentrates on learning irregular or ‘high frequency’ spellings using a variety of methods. This teaches children how to learn and not just - what to learn.
Abingdon Prep Phonics Open Morning - Tuesday 25 February, 9.30am – 11am.
Potty training can be one of the most stressful stages of being a parent but a new, beautifully illustrated and easy to use book, ‘How to Potty Train’, by
Judith Hough and Diane Titterton, aims to make it simple and even
enjoyable for parents and children.We have one book and a box of Dry
Like Me night time potty training pads to giveaway! Just email
[email protected] and the winner will be announced
in the Mar/April issue where a full feature on potty training
will be included.
HOW TO POTTY TRAIN WITHOUT GOING POTTY
January / February 2014
Oxfordshire01993 815966 www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk4 54
Of Getting the Little Blighters to eat - email your name and postal address to: [email protected] by the 1st February. The winner will be announced in the March/April issue.
Meal times can sometimes feel hectic, especially when having to manage fussy little eaters so we’re glad we discovered Witney based author Claire Potter’s new book, Getting the Little Blighters to Eat. Claire, once herself a fussy child and now mum of two young children - gives parents clear, simple and powerful rules to follow. Here are her top 5 tips to help:
1. Focus on the conversation, not the food Have a few more peas please…Come on, you haven’t touched your chicken…Try a parsnip – they’re yummy… It’s easy to find ourselves giving a running commentary like this at family mealtimes! It might seem like a good way to encourage our children to eat, but what it actually teaches them is that being fussy and NOT eating is going to get them a lot of attention! It is much better to simply give them their food and talk about other things. You’ll find that slowly but surely, they’ll eat more, not less, of what you want them to eat.
2. Keep giving them the foods they don’t eatOnce your child has rejected a food, it feels like a waste of time, effort, and money to give it to them again. Yet research shows that you may have to offer your child a food 15-20 times before they become receptive to the idea of actually eating it! Exposure to a food is a vital first step. It makes it familiar to them. It makes them feel ‘safe’ with it. So even if they always leave their courgettes, or turn their nose up at fish, keep putting a small portion on their plate. Gradually, it will make a difference.
3. Ban words like ‘yuck’, ‘ergh’ and ‘I don’t like this’
When your child looks at a meal you’ve just made and says somethng like this, it can make you want to scream! A good idea is to introduce a rule that, from now on, no negative comments about food are allowed. You can present it to them as a kind of a game or challenge: Let’s see if you can you avoid saying these words EVER? Not only will it reduce your irritation levels, it will stop your child forming a fixed, unbudgeable list of foods they don’t like in their mind.
4. Tweak your shoppingIt’s reasonable to occasionally let your child choose what’s for dinner as a treat, maybe once a week, but if you constantly buy and serve their favourites and preferences – for example, pasta spirals not tubes, red apples not green, smooth peanut butter not crunchy – it will exacerbate their fussiness. Their palate will become narrower. Their attitude to food will become more closed-minded. Make small and gradual changes to your food shopping, tweak by little tweak. When you buy something, ask yourself, what’s one step removed from that?
5. Don’t tell them they’re a fussy eater It is well researched that if you give a child any label, positive or negative (sporty, shy, naughty, artistic, fussy eater), they are likely to internalize it and live up to it. So never actually tell your child they’re a fussy eater – or let them hear you telling anyone else! They will simply think to themselves: No one is expecting me to eat this. I’m a fussy eater. I can’t help it! It will make it much harder to overcome the problem, whatever else you do.
How to stop fussy eating!What’s the right age to start school?
6
What is it that children start much too early at four, that stems their creativity and reduces their chance of good exam results further down the line?
According to a growing group of educationalists, thinkers, teachers and parents, the blight on the lives of young children is...school. Or at least, it’s too much school too soon – and that, according to the backers of a new campaign, is exactly what’s happening to thousands of British four-year-olds each year.
The argument put forward by the Save Childhood Movement, which is running the ‘Too Much, Too Soon’ campaign in favour of waiting until children are six before they go to school, is that young children need the chance to play, and should not be shoehorned into ‘learning’ too early. The campaigners say that in other parts of the world, early childhood is recognised as a valuable phase of development in its own right – whereas in Britain, it’s seen solely as preparation for school.
MisconceptionsThere’s a misconception in Britain, say the campaigners, that starting early with school means settling down to learn more quickly, and achieving more in the long term. But, they say, that’s not borne out by what happens in other countries. “Children who enter school at six or seven – after several years of high quality nursery education – consistently achieve better educational results as well as higher levels of wellbeing,” said 127 senior educational figures in a letter to the Daily Telegraph in September. “The success of the Scandinavian system suggests that many problems in English education – such as the widening gap in achievement between rich and poor, problems with boys’ literacy, and the ‘summerborns’ issue – could be addressed by fundamentally re-thinking our early years policies.”
Specifically, the Too Much Too Soon campaign is calling for
• the early years to be re-established as a unique development stage in its own right
• protection for the rights of young children to develop naturally
• an end to baseline testing
• a new emphasis on the importance of play
Link with mental healthFor the Too Much Too Soon lobby, the emphasis on formal education from a young age is part of a mindset that sees testing and academic pressure as good for young people – whereas they believe it’s harmful rather than helpful. They point out, for example, that the now-implemented Year One Phonics Screening Check in English primary schools is unnecessary and say there’s little correlation between the results of the phonics check and a child’s reading achievements at the end of Year 2.
They point out, too, that prescriptions of Ritalin for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, have quadrupled in the last ten years, and many believe the drug is being used to ‘normalise’ behaviour that may partly have come from having too many expectations heaped on them at too young an age. Mental health disorders among children and young people are also on the rise – again, the question the campaigners ask is whether that could be linked with early pressure at school.
The Department for Education has hit back at the Too Much Too Soon campaign, saying it amounts to a call for dumbing down. Those behind it were a “powerful and badly misguided lobby who are responsible for the devaluation of exams and the culture of low expectations in state schools,” according to a DoE spokesman. “We need a system that aims to prepare pupils to solve hard problems in calculus or be a poet or engineer – a system freed from the grip of those who bleat bogus pop-psychology about ‘self-image’, which is an excuse for not teaching poor children how to add up.”
Too Much Too Soon.By Joanna Moorhead
A fierce battle has broken out between the Department of Education and a group of campaigners who say British children are being disadvantaged by going to school aged four. Joanna Moorhead investigates.
To win
a free
copy
01993 815966 www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk January / February 2014
Oxfordshire
7
Education news Holidays
It’s still got the same name, but once you’ve got children your fortnight in the sun isn’t really a holiday any more. Not a holiday as you once knew it, anyway. Gone are the days when you could laze around a pool all day, with no bigger decision than how early in the day to have your first beer; gone, too, the days when you could party through the night and stay in bed until 11am if you wanted.
No: once you have kids, what a holiday actually means is more work than usual, with a different backdrop. Why more? Well, there are new hazards to negotiate, especially if your children are tiny (windows they could fall out of, swimming pools they could fall into, the need to be on constant watch for different dangers). And, unlike at home, you don’t have your usual safety nets in place to make things easier: no childminder, no friends round the corner, no teenage babysitter down the street, no playgroup.
What’s a time-starved couple, who still like the idea that a holiday might deliver them some time together a deux, some time alone to ruminate and read, and the occasional opportunity to try out watersports or the spa, to do? The good news is, there
are ways round the difficulties. The caveat is, none of them are problem-free.
Solution number one: Take the grandparentsThe pros: They’re free! Grandparents pay their own way on holiday (well, most do) – and some are even going to treat you quite a bit while you’re away. I’m joking, of course: grandparentsarea cost-cutting way of making your holiday more like a holiday; but the main advantage of them is they genuinely love your children, and they’re going to enjoy being with them, and vice versa.
The cons: Not everyone has a great relationship with their parents or parents-in-law. A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself whether you’d have holidayed with them before you had kids. If the answer is absolutely not, maybe think again.
Solution number two: Have a shared holiday with another familyThe pros: You can’t get out as much once you’ve got kids, so taking friends means you’ve got built-in entertainment. If you’re self-catering, you’ll find you can get a better deal on a luxurious big property – your money goes further, in other
words. And, of course, the big advantage is that your kids will have friends too.
The cons: You thought you knew your friends but believe me – you’re going to know them a whole lot better once you’ve holidayed with them. And you might not like everything about them. In fact you’re almost guaranteed to have the odd quibble – and maybe an all-out row (especially over children and how you deal with them). Are you sure your friendship can stand it?
Solution number three: Take a paid childcarerThe pros: You’re paying, so you get to call the shots. You
want a few free hours every afternoon, or two nights out in the week – you’ll get them. Your childcarer, unlike friends or grandparents, has taken this on as a job, and is likely to have experience and ideas up her sleeve about how to keep your kids occupied.
The cons: It’s going to be expensive – you’ll have to pay for your carer’s flights, living expenses, and a salary (or pocket money if you’re taking an au pair). A paid carer means you’ll have a ‘stranger’ on holiday with you. It might be hard to get family time away from the carer, especially as she won’t know anyone where you’re going and might not want to explore the resort on her own.
Everything changes when you have children, and nothing more than your annual holiday. But there are still ways to feel as though you’ve had a break, says mother-of-four Joanna Moorhead
How to have a proper holiday when you’re parentsBy Joanna Moorhead
JAN/FEB 2014 SCHOOL OPEN DAY LISTMAGDALEN COLLEGE SCHOOLSat 18 Jan at 9.30-12 noon Book via website www.mcoxford.org/
THE MANOR PREPARATORY SCHOOL Fri 24 Jan 2014Wed 12 Mar 2014 Both at [email protected]
D’OVERBROECK’SFor entry at 11+, 13+ and Sixth FormSat 1 Feb at 10.00am - 1.00pmwww.doverbroecks.com
RYE ST ANTONY SCHOOLEarly Years Foundation Stage Open AfternoonWed 12 Feb at [email protected]
CRANFORD HOUSE NURSERY Little Willows Nursery Open MorningFri 14 Feb at 10-12 noonCall 01491 [email protected]
ABINGDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLPhonics Open MorningTues 25 Feb at 9.30-11.00am www.abingdon.org.uk/prep
COKETHORPE SCHOOLSat 1 Mar at 9.30-12 noon Tues 13 May at [email protected] www.cokethorpe.org.uk
OUR LADY’S ABINGDONFor Nursery, Junior and Senior SchoolsFri 7 Mar at 9.30-11.45amBooking required for tours. Call 01235 524658 www.olab.org.uk
NEW COLLEGE SCHOOLFri 13 June 10.00-12 noon www.newcollege.oxon.sch.uk/ www.ryestantony.co.uk
Autism Champions
Does your child have a diagnosis of Autism?
Is your child struggling at school or would you and your family like
to know more about Autism? Are you worried about how to explain Autism to your child?
Autism Champions can help!
For more information contact Dee on 07810205646 or
www.autismchampions.co.uk
GCSE shake upWill we see a revival of Charles Dickens and Jane Austen in Michael Gove’s new GCSEs? In the latest in a number of moves to make GCSEs more demanding, the Education Secretary has announced the introduction of a new curriculum. Under these more challenging examinations, students will be expected to memorise maths formulae and concentrate more on spelling, punctuation and grammar, plus studying more pre-20th century authors.
The new curriculum, beginning in September 2015, has the aim of improving pupils’ achievement, compared with their contemporaries in other countries. While the maths syllabus will include ratios, vectors and conditional probability amongst other topics, the new curriculum for English literature demands students study at least one Shakespeare play, one 19th century novel, a selection of poetry, and British fiction or drama from 1914 onwards. In English language, the emphasis will primarily be on ‘unseen’ texts.
The Education Secretary said. “On average, secondary schools in England spend only 116 hours per year teaching mathematics, which international studies show is far less time than that spent on this vital subject by our competitors. The new GCSEs in English and mathematics set higher expectations. They demand more from all students and provide further challenge for those aiming to achieve top grades.”
National Storytelling WeekThis February brings seven days of reading, sharing and listening with the 14th Annual National Storytelling Week. From 1-8 February, schools, drama clubs and performance groups in Oxfordshire and beyond will celebrate the joy of storytelling. There will be a whole host of events near you, so why not join in by finding out more at www.sfs.org.uk/national-storytelling-week.
Nursery inspections get tough
Ofsted are to toughen up their inspections of nurseries, day-care facilities and pre-schools, as part of an overhaul of the early year’s inspection system. In future, all nurseries will be expected to achieve an outstanding or good rating, while those with lower ratings will potentially face closure. Nurseries will now be in line with schools, in that there will no longer be a ‘satisfactory’ category. Instead, nurseries considered to be under-performing must improve dramatically within two years, while those rated as inadequate will be re-inspected in a matter of weeks, with the prospect of being de-registered and ultimately closed. Independent education
for boys from 4-13 yearsand girls aged 4-7
Abingdon Preparatory School01865 [email protected]/prep
PHONICS OPEN MORNINGTuesday 25 February 9.30-11.00am
9January / February 2014
Oxfordshire01993 815966 www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk 98
School is about to get tougher, but there are many ways you can help boost your child’s brain power. Education Secretary Michael Gove’s plans for a more rigorous school curriculum introduces fractions for five-year-olds, a complete sweep of British history and a comprehensive survey of Shakespeare. But don’t despair - there is plenty you can do to help your children meet these tougher standards.
1. Give them a good breakfast
A high-protein diet can feed those little grey cells, increasing the size of the brain’s caudate nucleus, associated with higher intelligence. Add nuts to cereal to boost protein content of their cereals. If your child refuses to eat much, make a high-protein smoothie with yoghurt or tofu.
2. Make sure they eat their greens (and yellows, reds and oranges)
Children who eat a diet high in fruit and veg have higher IQs than those who subsist on processed and sugary foods. Start early if you want maximum benefits, although it’s never too late to turn a bad diet around.
3. Ditch dental fluorides
Fluoride is a neurotoxin accumulating in brain tissue and affecting brain development. Yet on average we ingest up to 1,000 times more fluoride than any other heavy metal through fluoridated water, food and dental products. Choose toothpastes free of fluoride and if you’re worried about your child’s teeth, get an electric toothbrush and teach them how to floss properly.
4. Feed them the good fats
Omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) in fish oils can dramatically accelerate learning, as well as protecting the brains of your children from the worst effects of junk food.
Don’t shy away from fish. Although concerns have been raised about mercury levels and other pollutants, the goodness in fish outweighs any dangers.
- Don’t overlook saturated fats
Although received wisdom has it that saturated fats are bad for children and contribute to ADHD, they actually assist in the conversion of EFAs into the long-chain forms the body needs. Always choose butter over margarine and full-fat milk over skimmed.
5. Chuck them outside
Children stay indoors so much these days that many of them are low in vitamin D, which can lead to high blood pressure, rickets and unhealthy bones. Vitamin D is also crucial for the development of the nervous system, including the brain.
Make sure children are outside for at least 15 minutes a day, and unless they burn easily, don’t put sunscreen on them until they’ve been out in the sun for at least 10 minutes.
6. Keep metal out of their mouths (and everywhere else)
Don’t allow your children to have ‘silver’ fillings - ever. Research has found a direct link between levels of mercury in the mother’s hair at the time of birth and the likelihood of the child developing ADHD. Like fluoride, the aluminium sulphate present in our water supply has also been found to cause brain damage.
Besides aluminium, children with developmental and behavioural problems may have high blood concentrations of lead. Never cook with aluminium utensils and opt for an under-sink filtration system that removes all heavy metals like lead from the water supply. If your house is old, check what your pipes are made of.
7. Encourage them to meditate
Meditation appears to permanently enhance brain receptivity. Besides increasing mental ability, meditation also seems to integrate emotional and cognitive processes, so aiding intuitive learning.
5 Kiddy Brain Killers1. Junk food
A diet heavy on fish fingers and fast-food burgers prevents the brain from generating new nerve cells. Aside from lowering your child’s IQ, fast food increases the risk of severe asthma by a whopping 39 per cent in teens and 27 per cent in younger children. Researchers have found a clear association between eating fast food and immune-related diseases like asthma and eczema.
2. Fizzy drinks
Keep soft drinks out of the kitchen. A can of drink contains 10 teaspoons full of sugar!
3. Wheat
Wheat (as well as soy, barley and rye) has high levels of glutamic and aspartic acids, which can affect the brain’s neurons, causing overactivation of nerve-cell receptors. The antioxidant agents in wheat called ‘phytates’ interfere with vital minerals that are essential for the growing brain.
4. Chinese takeaways and kiddy sweeteners
The flavour enhancer monosodium glutamate (MSG) and the artificial sweetener aspartame are both lethal to children’s brains and can disrupt certain brain pathways, causing memory loss. They can also cause hyperactivity, low intelligence, poor school performance and irritability.
Watch out for sweetened items like kiddy vitamins, gum or juice drinks. And whenever you order a Chinese, ask them to hold the MSG.
5. Mobile phones
Some 200 studies confirm the damage to the growing brain caused by mobile phones. In addition to facing a greater risk of brain tumours children who grow up using mobile phones can suffer from learning difficulties, attention deficits and sleep problems.
Try to limit the use of phones and never let your child keep one next to them when they are sleeping.
See the full length version on www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk.
This story was first published in What Doctors Don’t Tell You, in selected retailers such as W H Smith. It is a real eye opener!
See www.wddty.com
How to help your child overcome…
Why children wet the bed is hotly debated. The majority of bedwetting is inherited. For three out of four kids, either a parent or close relative also wet the bed in childhood. Other causes are overactive bladder syndrome (involuntary passing of urine), or not enough hormone that regulates urine production.
Researchers have found that deep sleepers are more likely to wet the bed, as the brain doesn’t get the signal that the bladder is full. Children sometimes don’t go to the toilet due to fears such as being scared of the dark. Starting to wet the bed especially after being dry can be due to emotional problems such as stress and anxiety. Although rare, constipation, diabetes, or an infection can cause bedwetting.
Experts agree there is no one single cause of bed-wetting, and there are a number of methods that can help.
Drinking and eating“Avoid or limit foods that that are spicy, or high in sugar or fat, including fizzy drinks,” says Alyson Carter, a Registered Nutritional Therapy Council Practitioner. “These foods can irritate or inflame the bladder, loosening the muscles, making it harder for a child to keep control.” Fresh foods, and calming foods such as oats, are recommended. Alyson also advises restricting fluids from around 1 ½ hours before bedtime.
SupportParents may be embarrassed to broach the subject, but your GP can take blood and urine tests to rule out any illness or infection, or refer you to a clinic. “We went to see our child’s teacher,” said
Sarah, with 7 year old Isabella “and discussed how children asked and went to the toilet. We asked her to help ensure our daughter went to the toilet regularly.”
ExercisesThere are specific exercises that can strengthen or expand a child’s bladder. “Our doctor suggested that when my son needed to toilet, I make him wait at least 10–20 minutes longer. This helped his bladder expand,” said Lisa, mum to three boys. Another exercise is when they are on the toilet have them go, then stop for a few seconds, then go again, so that they are strengthening the muscles.
Lifting and night pantsWaking your child to go to the toilet, and wearing night pants can increase confidence and help for sleepovers. However some believe these should be avoided because they interfere with the child’s individual motivation to wake up and use the toilet.
Medical treatmentIn persistent cases, desmopressin, a manufactured form of the hormone that decreases urine production, can be prescribed. The effects are short term and the problem likely to reoccur when treatment is stopped.
Complementary and alternative therapies
Several complementary and alternative therapies have been tried including acupuncture, chiropractic care, and hypnosis. While some parents have reported great improvements it is not a fix all.
Behaviour therapyFor younger children motivating them with a sticker chart and rewards is effective. Self-awakening therapy helps older kids recognise when their bladder is full. A simple self-awakening routine may be just before they go to the toilet during the daytime, they lie down in their bedroom, pretend to sleep and think about their full bladder and needing to go.
Re-training Bedwetting alarms specifically help train your child to wake when they have a full bladder. The alarm’s sensor detects dampness and eventually, the child’s brain learns to pay attention to bladder signals and wakes up naturally before wetting the bed. “They have been so easy to use, the girls had no problem with them and the message really got through,” said Kim, mum of two daughters. “The results were amazing. Not every child will react so quickly, but I would highly recommend giving it a try,” Sam.
There is no doubt bedwetting feels embarrassing to talk about and it can be stressful, but every year 15 percent of children who wet the bed, become dry, with no intervention. They will all outgrow it eventually, but if you and your child are motivated to get dry, choose your method and stay positive. It worked for us.
SEVEN steps to a smarter child
Wetting the bed By Elisabeth Dolton
Wetting the bed has been the hardest childhood ailment for my children to grow out of. Banishing that wet monster did not come easy and we are not alone. Although all children eventually gain bladder control at night, they do so at different ages, and many children over the age of five still frequently wet the bed. In fact, around 1 in 7 children aged five, and 1 in 20 children aged ten, are frequent bedwetters.
Thanks to Alyson Carter, Registered Nutritional Therapy Council Practitioner, www.nut4life.comYou can contact her on 07816 981858.Further helpERIC - Education and Resources for Improving Childhood Continence www.eric.org.uk www.uofmhealth.org/health-librarywww.nhs.uk/Conditions/Bedwettingwww.webmd.com/features/bedwetting 1101993 815966
www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk January / February 2014
Oxfordshire
10 11
12
WWW.SUPERCAMPS.CO.UKor call 01235 467300
WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN THESCHOOL HOLIDAYS?
OVER 80 OFSTED REGISTERED VENUES WITH DBS/CRB CLEARED STAFF
40+ ACTIVITIES: SPORTS, ARTS AND CRAFTS
OPEN 8AM - 6PM MON-FRI WE ACCEPT CHILDCARE VOUCHERS AS PAYMENT
For more information on venues and courses visit our website
NEW to Witney, Faringdon & Didcot!
First class is FREE! Call Lynn on 01993 201987 or email
[email protected] to find out more. We’ll be having fun with action songs, puppets & musical instruments
every week! www.caterpillarmusic.com (FO1)
Fun Music & Movement
Classes for 0-4 years old!
Local Clubs and classesAt Families we want to help you to find suitable activities for your children. Our mission in 2014, is to find as many of them as possible in Oxfordshire (but this may take some time!) If you know of any please do send in details to [email protected]. We will include another updated list in our Back to School, Sept/Oct issue. If you do make contact with any of these classes, remember to say where you saw them.
MUSIC
Salt Box MusicFun & educational group music sessions for 0- 4 year olds; Global percussion! Puppets & props! Musical games! World music! Weekly classes in Witney, Botley and Carteton. T: 01993 704207 / 07710154601. www.saltboxmusic.co.uk.
Music with Nick CopeMusic and movement for under 8’s and their carers in East Oxford, Abingdon, Botley and Summertown. www.nickcope.co.uk.
Monkey MusicBelieves that music is fundamental to a pre-school child’s development and offers a progressive and educational four stage curricula to nurture a lifetime of music. or T: 01865 326746. www.monkeymusic.co.uk
Robert Wiecha Music TuitionChildren and adults learn to play the piano or guitar by classically trained teacher with home visits. E: [email protected]. T: 07577 202 726.
MAD AcademyHigh energy music and dancing classes for babies and children. Special offer for autumn term: baby classes are £3 per week (usually £4). Classes now also at Partyman World of Play, Oxford. Cost £5 per child with free entrance to soft play centre. T: 01869 369502. www.madacademy.com
Caterpillar Music WitneyEnjoy the wonderful world of Caterpillar Music in Witney, Didcot and Faringdon for one of Oxfordshire’s best toddler activity groups. Join Lynn with action songs, puppets and musical instruments and get your first class for FREE! Call 01993 201987 to book! Or visit www.caterpillarmusic.com
DANCEWhitestar PerformersDancing for tots and singing and drama for 6-11 year olds and yoga for parents and children in Kidlington. T: 07717 837 706. www.whitestarperformers.co.uk
BabyballetA magical movement-to-music class for little dancers aged 6 months-5 years with Charlotte Russell. Classes in Witney. T: 07583048496. www.babyballet.co.uk
Flair Dance StudioFreestyle disco and street dance classes in Oxford, Woodstock, Witney & Bicester for all ages and abilities. T: 01993 813373. www.flairdancestudio.co.uk/
Expression School of Ballet & Theatre ArtsAges 8-12 at the Old Firestation, 40 George St. OxfordOX1 2AQ.www.expressionsdance.co.uk
Cornerstone Arts CentreFrom ages 4 upwards, various courses at 25 Station Road, Didcot OX11 7NE.www.cornerstone-arts.org
Marianna’s School of DanceFun & inspiring ballet with RAD possibility for exams. At the Yoga Garden. Behind Cibo’s, South Parade, Summertown. T: 07747 481 798.
BABY & TOTSRugbytotsRugbytots is a specially designed programme using rugby skills, fun and enjoyable whilst developing basic core skills 2-7 year olds. T: 0845 313 6707. www.rugbytots.co.uk.
Tiny Tigers EducationExciting karate based motor skills development for 2-6 year olds to improve emotional and physical intelligence. E: [email protected]. T: 01235 364371.
Nature Tots For pre-school little ones to interact with nature through outdoor nature play, games, stories and craft in Sutton Courtenay Environment Centre. Book at T: 01235 862024. [email protected]
Baby College Fun parent & baby development classes in Botley and Witney plus baby massage and yoga classes. T: 01865 436920. www.babycollegeoxford.co.uk
Baby signing With Tiny Talk for 0-2’s, singing, sign and relax at Drayton Village Hall,Lockway, Drayton, Abingdon OX14 4LG. T: 07927 339 102. www.tinytalk.co.uk/chrisl
Tatty & Baby Bumpkin To enhance feelings of well-being with yoga, story-telling, active play and music in Abingdon. 0845 680 3476. www.tattybumpkin.com/seoxfordshire
SWIMMING
Water BabiesTeaching babies to swim in various locations in Oxford core skills in warm water pools, from birth upwards, using unique methods to put babies at ease, which they’ll love! T: 01869 325499. www.waterbabies.co.uk
Dippers & DiversFor babies, beginners and after school in Abingdon, Wolvercote and Harwell Primary School. T. 01235 763328. www.dippersanddivers.co.uk
Oxford Swim SchoolAn exciting venture at Oxford High School, Summertown. Intensive week courses and more. T: 01865 864537. www.oxfordswimschool.co.uk
Learn to swim With Jane Brooks (ASA Swimming teacher). For non-swimmers to advanced. T:07855 324417. www.janebrooksgymandswim
PuddleducksFor babies and pre-school ages upwards. Classes in Abingdon, Didcot and Oxford areas. T: 01666 577377. www.puddleducks.com
MARTIAL ARTSWashinkai Karate Cherwell School, Marston Ferry Rd, Oxford. 5.30-6.30pm, Monday’s for Ages 5-11 at www.washinkai.org
Kung Fu AcademySouth Oxfordshire Community Centre, Lake St. Oxford. Traditional martial arts classes. 7.30pm. www.kung-fu-academy.co.uk
Oxfordshire Taekwon-do / Little Puma’sFor all ages in Didcot, Wantage and Grove. T: 07831 950 850. www.oxfordshiretkd.co.uk
Oxford Karate AcademyUnited Reform Church, Banbury Rd, Oxford, OX2 7HN. Karate for all ages. T: 07956 902 101
THEATRE / PERFORMANCEMatrix Music School & Arts CentreMatrix provides a friendly place for children to enjoy music art and ballet lessons, in Sutton Courtenay Nr. Abingdon. T: 01235 847264. www.matrixmusicschool.co.uk
StagecoachWhere children are taught how to sing, dance and act on stage and beyond. See your child gain confidence, rise to the challenge and build essential life skills while learning and having fun! Weekly classes throughout Oxfordshire and half term workshops. E: [email protected]. T: 01869 278600. www.stagecoach.co.uk/oxfordshire
Youngstar Oxford TV & Film acting for 8-18’s. Nurturing talented actors hoping for a route in to TV and film! In Abingdon, Wantage & Oxford. T: 01235 539772. www.youngstaroxford.tv
Mini media workshopsCreative fun for 6-11 years at Barefoot Books, Summertown. www.mini-mediakids.com
PerformFor 4-12 year olds, Perform uses a unique mix of drama, dance and singing formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are small to ensure individual attention by experienced teachers. Classes in Jericho, Botley & Abingdon. [email protected]. T: 0845 400 1276. www.perform.org.uk/venues/areas/Oxford.
ARTCreative Art At the Lisa Jane Art Studio at The Stables, Radford Farm, Nr Enstone,Oxfordshire OX7 4EB. T: 01608 677558. www.lisajayne.uk.com
Buttermilk Art SchoolButtermilk Stud, Barford Road, South
Newington, Banbury, Oxfordshire OX15 0PL. Courses for children ages 9-13, taught basic art skills, learn about artists and much more. T: 0754 915 7855. www.georgeirvinefineart.co.uk/course-type/child/.
Art ClubWith Jane Strother at her studio in Headington, limited places for ages 7-9. Contact online: www.janestrother.co.uk/janestrotherartist/page2984.
ACTIVITIESTRAX Motor ProjectActivity days (nr Peartree roundabout) for ages 8+. Mechanics, archery and more in a safe environment. T: 01865 243077. www.trax.org.uk/.
GYMNASTICSOxford Rhythmic GymnasticsFor girls from ages 3-16 who enjoy rhythm and who want to master skills. E: [email protected]. T: 07866846273.
Abingdon Gymnastics ClubFor tots and pre-school upwards and holiday classes for a wide range of gymnastics. T: 01865 340992. www.abingdongymclub.co.uk
Little Monkeys Gym Little Monkeys Gym teaches pre-school gymnastics to children who can walk up to 4. T: 01865 841409. www.janebrooksgymandswim.
SPORTSLittle KickersFootball classes for kids 18 months-7 years. In Oxford, Didcot, Wallingford & Wantage. T: 01235 859 250. www.littlekickers.co.uk/.
Kidlington Youth Football ClubEmail Steve Forse at [email protected]
Summertown StarsEmail [email protected]
Charlbury Cricket ClubEmail Andrea Mayho at [email protected] T: 07818 255 388
Witney and Standlake Tennis ClubEmail Ed Large at [email protected]: 07734 059 769
Oxford Sport & traditional Martial ArtsEmail Barry Battson at [email protected] T: 07841 975 585
Rugby at Gosford All Blacks T: 01865 373994
LANGUAGESCoyotes ELEFor ages 4-6 at South Oxford Community Centre, Lake Street, Oxford OX1 4RP. www.spanishcoyotes.com
Mariella Montenegro Spanish at Louie Memorial Pavillion, Arnolds Way, Oxford OX2 9JD. T: 01367 243589.
Chris Polatch French for 5-12’s, highly effective, fun and lively in Oxford. T: 0845 450 4909. www.cp-fl.com/home
YOGAPregnancy YogaAt Yogavenue. Suitable for 14 weeks plus. 6 week course. 4-5.30pm at 2 Avenue Lane, Oxford OX4 1YF. T: 01865 245754. www.yogavenue.co.uk
Mum-Baby yogaPregnancy yoga with Louise Hurford for drop-in or bookings at Crowmarsh Pavilion, Wallingford. From 2 months-crawling. T: 07719716273. www.harmonyoftheheart.co.uk
January / February 2014
Oxfordshire
12 13Advertise in Families Oxfordshire call 01993 815966 or email [email protected]
What’s on January/February 2014
14 15For times and prices, please visit venue websites
THEATRE & MUSICOXFORD PLAYHOUSE Beaumont Street Oxford, UK, OX1 2LWOxfordplayhouse.comUNTIL 12 JAN. ROBIN HOODRobin Hood is riding into Oxford Playhouse for the very first time in this action-packed new panto. Expect non-stop thrills and spills as Robin and his Merry Men battle the evil Sherriff of Nottingham in this classic tale sure to delight all the family. With a superb cast of your favourite characters, sing-a-long tunes, stunning dancing, slapstick, silliness and lots of chances to join in, it’s going to be the perfect festive entertainment. Don’t delay - secure a panto-tastic time for your family today!
THE MILL ARTS CENTRE Spiceball Park Banbury OX16 5QEthemillarscentre.co.uk10-19 JAN. ALADDINSide splitting comedy, stunning sets, beautiful costumes and a fantastic cast. Packed with all the traditional panto ingredients, this is a magic carpet ride you won’t want to miss! £10/£8/Family £32. Visit online for times.25 JAN. JACK AND THE BEANSTALKExpect lots of surprises, a gripping story and beautiful images as Jack sells his cow for some magic beans and finds himself in the land above the clouds. It’s a show with something for everyone – enormous shoes, tiny houses, showers of silver and gold and a big, leafy explosion! £7/£23 Family. Suitable for age’s 6mths-7 years. 1 FEB. LITTLE HOWARD’S BIG SHOW FOR KIDSBig Howard and Little Howard, the human/cartoon double act and stars of The Slammer. A sinister figure threatens our heroes and the only way to thwart him is by putting on the funniest show possible. 2pm. £7 /£23 Family. Ages 6+15 FEB. THEO THE MOUSETheo the Mouse and his best friend Wendy are visiting for an afternoon of pure family fun and laughter with a show that’s filled with jokes, songs and magic. 2pm. £7 | £23 Family. Ages 2+. 18 FEB. KIDS CARPET BLAST OFF!The Noisy Animals are about to blast off into outer space to find a new sound for their latest hit album. In a super duper fast adventure around a rock ‘n’ roll musical universe, friends encounter noisy planets, nursery rhyme characters and Shakespeare. 11am | 2pm. £7 | £23 Family. Ages 4+22 FEB. COMEDY CLUB FOR KIDSCracking entertainment for everyone over six and under 400 years old (no vampires or Highlanders). With great comedians from the UK doing what they do best. £7/£23 Family.
THE THEATRE CHIPPING NORTON 2 Spring Street, Chipping Norton. OX7 5NLChippingnortontheatre.co.uk UNTIL 12 JAN. JACK AND THE GIANTA boy and his cow, a giant and his castle in the clouds, beanstalks, bravery and beautiful princesses – all feature in our unique twist on this classic story.18 JAN. MR CELLO AND FRIENDS: THE TRUMPETJoin professional cellist Roz Gladstone and Mr Cello for these fun interactive concerts for children. Concerts are 45 minutes and designed for little ones and their families to enjoy both listening and participation. Join Mr Cello and his friend as we explore the workings and sound world of the instrument through a selection of short pieces. Enjoy the double bass in February. £8.50. Ages 2+.23 JAN. CINEMA BAMBINO ADULT & BABIES FILM CLUBA film club for parents and carers with babies, aged up to and including 18 months. A chance to socialise and enjoy a worry-free film experience. Free tea or coffee, parking for prams and buggies and baby changing facilities, Annual membership £5.THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE (CERT TBC)The second in the much loved sci-fi series of books and films promises to be more gripping, eye-catching and star-studded than ever. Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark become targets of the Capitol after their victory in the 74th Hunger Games sparks a rebellion. 10.45am.
PEGASUSMagdalen Road Oxford OX4 1REpegasustheatre.org.uk 14 FEB. FIRST STAGE: PIGEONA work in progress showingThe true story of a special pigeon named ‘Cher Ami’. Follow the incredible story of an ordinary little pigeon who takes an extraordinary flight. Travel back 100 years to the battle fields of WWI, to a time when our lives depended on pigeons to carry vital messages. Charming puppets, music and characters combine to tell this astonishing tale. £3/Family £10. 4.30pm. Ages 6+
THE KENTON THEATRE New Street Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BPkentontheatre.co.uk20 FEB. WOW! THIS SHOW IS MAGICSee two of the country’s finest magicians in this newly created stage show for all the family. Doctor Bondini and JezO have been wowing crowds with their incredible magic acts in their own shows for years and now they combine their talents into one amazing new production. 2pm & 6.30pm. £12/£10/Family £40. 22 FEB. ADELE TRIBUTE – HOMETOWN GLORYThe ultimate tribute to the world famous and much loved soul singer Adele. This show is into its second successful year and is taking the industry by storm. Adele Tribute – Hometown Glory is fast becoming recognised as the UK’s leading Adele tribute act. Accompanied by a string quartet and pianist. Tickets £18/£16/£15/£12.50. Buy 10 tickets, get 1 free! 8pm. 23 FEB. HUGLESS DOUGLASA huggable, lovable young brown bear wakes up one morning in need of a hug. He tries to find the perfect one, but none of them seem quite right as there are so many different hugs to choose from. A delightful show brought to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling. 11am & 2pm. Costs £9/Family £30. Ages 3-7.
THE NORTH WALLSouth Parade, Oxford OX2 7JNthenorthwall.com25 JAN. NOBODY RIDES THE UNICORNThe greedy King of Joppardy and cunning Doctor Slythe trick an innocent young girl, Zoe, into helping them capture the Unicorn. £7 + £1 booking fee. 11am/2pm. Ages 4+12 FEB. A NOVEMBER DAYIn forgotten boxes in an attic, a woman discovers the story of her grandfather, a survivor of the First World War, and his unexpected encounter with a stray dog who knew no boundaries. With evocative puppet characters, live music and an ever-changing set, this is a timeless fable on war and the miracle of friendship. £10/£8 +bk fee. Ages 10+
JACQUELINE DU PRE MUSIC BUILDINGSt Hilda’s College, Oxford, OX4 1DYSt-hildas.ox.ac.uk12 JAN. HARP CUSHION CONCERT16 FEB. TRUMPET CUSHION CONCERTLed by Rozzy, with Mr Cello, introducing music made by different instruments, fun and close-up, in a special music building and bring your own cushion! £5. Limited places. Book at Oxford Playhouse 01865 305 305. Under 5s: 10am & 11am Over 5s: 12pm
MUSEUMS & GALLERIESTHE STORY MUSEUMRochester House, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BPstorymuseum.org.uk 8 FEB. FAMILY PRINT WORKSHOPPut your pens away and discover the art of printing by hand on the Bodleian’s antique printing presses. You’ll learn a new skill, have fun, and make your own keepsake to take home! 2-4pm. £8 per person. Ages 8+
ROALD DAHL MUSEUM81-83 High Street, Great Missenden, Bucks, HP16 0AL.roalddahlmuseum.org 12 JAN. POETRY TO GO!For all ages: meet our Big Friendly Poet in Residence, Paul Lyalls, who will be spending the day writing in our replica of Roald Dahl’s chair. Throughout the day you’ll have the chance to order a free poem to go from Paul. Come along and brighten up these cold dark January days with some phizzwhizzing poetry that is personal to you and you alone! Free for Museum visitors. 11am and 3pm1 FEB. CHARLIE’S CHOCOLATE EXTRAVAGANZALaunching a year-long celebration for the 50th anniversary of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with a day of chocolate-filled fun. Join in with chocolate decorating Charlie-themed archive tours and lots more. Museum admission applies. Free for children dressed as a character from the book. 11am-5pm. Visit website for more details.
PITT RIVERS MUSEUMOxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PWprm.ox.ac.uk FAMILY FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES FREE drop-in activities for children aged 5+. Adults to accompany children. Every Sunday 14.00–16.00Activity backpacks, sorting boxes, trails, colouring sheets and craft activities.PITT STOPS First Saturday of the month, 13.00-16.00Explore the Museum, discover something new and make something super! Drop in sessions. Suitable for ages 5+
1 FEB. BRILLIANT BODY ARTBe inspired by the collections to make your body beautiful! Make an ornament and have your face painted.6 FEB. DANCE TO THE DITTYGrab a Japanese Dance scarf and get dancing. 10.30–12.30, 14.00–16.00. Under 5’s. 17-19 FEB. BIG STARS AND LITTLE SECRETSReunite with the Natural History’s biggest stars after its closure & discover some of the Pitt Rivers’ best kept secrets… 13.00–16.001 MAR. KNIGHTS IN SHINING ARMOURExplore the Museum’s armour and become a courageous knight! Make shiny shields and hair-raising helmets.6 MAR. SINGING AROUND THE WORLDLearn catchy traditional tunes from around the world and make a noisy instrument to practise them at home! 10.30– 12.30, 14.00–16.00. Under 5’s.
THE OXFORDSHIRE MUSEUMWoodstock, Park Street Woodstock OX20 1PAoxfordshire.gov.uk/oxfordshiremuseum8 FEB-27 APR. UNEARTHED – RICHES OF THE ROMANS & ANGLO SAXONS - EXHIBITIONFeaturing Anglo-Saxon and Roman objects with new technology to display and interpret the items. 18 FEB. TOM TOTSSongs, rhyme and crafts. £1 per family, 10.30-11am. Under 5’s. 18 FEB. FIGURE IT OUT’ using air hardening clay, make a small figurine. £2. 2-4pm19 FEB. WORK AS A FAMILY To create a wall hanging to take home. £5, 2-4pm. Booking required - 01865 300639.20 FEB. LEARN ABOUT THE EARLY DAYS OF CYCLINGCreate your own Victorian cycling scene. £2. 2-4pm
RIVER AND ROWING MUSEUMMill Meadows, Henley on Thames, RG9 1BF rrm.co.uk26 JAN. RSPB BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCHThe RSPB returns for another Big Garden Birdwatch. Lots of fun wildlife-related activities and look through binoculars and add your results to the Big Garden Birdwatch. 10.30-3.30pm. FREE with Admission.18 FEB. MYSTERIOUS MOLEFind out what mole gets up to underground and make a spring cleaning mole with dusters! 10.30am-12.30pm. Ages 4-7. £8.5018 FEB. MOD ROC MAMMALS Create your own mod roc mammals, taking inspiration from the river. Dress for mess! 2– 4pm. Ages 7-11. £8.5019 FEB. MODEL MOTOR MONEY BOXMake a moneybox out of clay in the shape of your favourite car. Learn modelling skills and have your moneybox glazed and fired. 10.30am-12.30pm. Ages 7-11. £1021 FEB. ‘VROOMM VROOMM!’Make, play and experiment with things that move in a fun family day to accompany the Frazer Nash exhibition. 10.30am-4.00pm. FREE with admission.
EAST OXFORD COMMUNITY CLASSICS CENTRECheney Lane, Headington, OxfordIrisproject.org.uk16 JAN. ROMAN MEDICINE EVENTVisitors welcome to the exhibition, information and activity stalls from 3.30pm.ROMAN MEDICINE WORKSHOPInvolving fun and educational artefacts and activities on Roman Medicine. All ages. 4.15-5.15pm.MEDICINE AND THE ROMAN ARMY An introductory talk by Roman medicine expert and lecturer Professor Helen King. Plus exhibition and refreshments. 5.30-6.00pm. Book at [email protected]. www.irisproject.org.uk.
ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM Beaumont Street, OxfordAshmolean.org All family events are free, with a suggested donation £1 per child. Children must be accompanied by an adult.11 JAN. WARRIOR TEDBring your teddy and make them a shield, helmet, sword, and tunic fit for an Anglo-Saxon warrior. Drop-in 1–4pm16 JAN. SWIM LITTLE FISHIESGo fishing around the Museum to find the Ashmolean’s sea creatures, listen to a story, and make a simple fishing game. 10.30am–12.30pm & 2–4pm, drop-in. Under 5’s.8 FEB. CHINA: YEAR OF THE HORSECelebrate Chinese New Year by making a paper dragon puppet or paper peach blossom for our good-luck tree. Drop-in 1–4pm13 FEB. PRETTY AS A PEACOCKThursday 13 February, Find the hiding places of all our peacocks and make a peacock picture to take home. 10.30am–12.30pm & 2–4pm, drop-in. 19-21 FEB. GAMES GALORE!Play games around the Ashmolean, discovering old and new favourites from ludo and snakes and ladders, to senet and hnefatafl. Drop-in 1–4pm
THE THEATRE CHIPPING NORTON 2 Spring Street, Chipping Norton. OX7 5NLChippingnortontheatre.co.uk 20 FEB. EXPLORE SPACEJoin the Science Oxford team for a whistle-stop tour of our Solar System! Looking at planets, moons, stars and the differences between them with some clued up experts. Learn why we have day and night, and find out how old you are in Martian years. This family science show is out of this world!£8.50. 11am or 2pm. Ages 8+
BAREFOOT BOOKS OXFORD STUDIO294 Banbury Road, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7ED barefootbooks.com/JAN 2014. STEP INSIDE A STORYLooking for a fun morning activity? Then Step Inside a Story at these new, interactive workshops for children - to dig deep into selected titles through a story time, a themed craft, and fun games. Every day at 11am-12pm. £5 per child.
OXFORD CASTLE UNLOCKED 44-46 OxfordCastle, Oxford, OX1 1AYoxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk15-23 FEB. CRIMES AND CAPTURE Follow an interactive trail through the castle and discover the crimes that would have been worthy of imprisonment in centuries past. Did you know that stealing cheese or breaking and entering a hen house would get you locked up?!Open 10am-5.30pm, tours every 20 mins.
MILLETS FARMKingston Rd, Frilford, Oxfordshire, OX13 5HB milletsfarmcentre.comUNTIL JAN 14. REAL ICE SKATING RINKSet within the outdoor plant department for a fabulous family experience to remember. Tickets can be bought on the website.
WATERPERRY GARDENS Waterperry, Nr Wheatley, Oxford, OX33 1JZwaterperrygardens.co.uk15/16, 22/23 FEB. SNOWDROP WEEKENDSFind 30 different snowdrop varieties in the gardens and the snowdrop valley area. Don’t miss free guided tours at 11am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm daily. (Garden entrance fee applies). 10am-5pm.15-23 FEB. ALPHABET I SPYFamily fun! Spy the whole alphabet and win a seasonal prize. Find the characters hidden in the gardens for an extra surprise! £2 per child (must be accompanied by an adult paying entrance fee.) For all ages. 10am - 5pm.
UNIVERSITY HISTORY OF SCIENCE MUSEUMBroad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AZmhs.ox.ac.uk11 JAN. FAMILY CREATIVE DAYFamily Open Day with creative activities for everyone to enjoy. Free. 1-4pm. NOW-29 FEB. 2014 STORY MAKERS ARTS Thinking Space, Ways of Measuring and Ways of Seeing by 7 – 11 year olds from Bayards Hill, Rose Hill and Cutteslowe Primary Schools. See a show of work, created with Artscape Echoes group at the University History of Science Museum.
madacademy.comMusic And Dance and a whole lot of fun!
For classes of pure MADness,join MAD AcademyBabies from 3 months action songs and sensory stimulation
Walkers to 2 years music, movement and motor development
2 to 4 years dance, musicality and beat competency
Classes in Oxford and BicesterCall Sophie on 01869 369502 or email: [email protected]
BirthdayParties
Too!
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Yoga & Dance Classes in Kidlington
Children age 3+ Stage School age 6+
Adults
Tuesday & Thursday group classesPrivate sessions
Small group bookings Home visits available
Contact:Tanya White on 07717 837706 or [email protected]
www.whitestarperformers.co.uk
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January / February 2014
OxfordshireAdvertise in Families Oxfordshire call 01993 815966 or email [email protected]
A happy and purposeful atmosphere for learning
Rye offers an environment in which achieve-ments are celebrated, efforts praised and pupils are enabled to thrive and grow, keen to learn and keen to succeed.
Rye St Antony, Pullen’s Lane, Headington, Oxford OX3 OBY
Telephone: 01865 762802
Fax: 01865 763611
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.ryestantony.co.ukRegistered Charity No. 309685
Early Years Foundation Stage Open AfternoonWednesday 12 February2.00pm - 3.30pm
• Boarding and day school • Girls 3-18 years • Boys 3-8 years
Open MorningSaturday, 1st February 2014 10am-1pm
for entry at age 11+, 13+ and directly into the Sixth Form
www.doverbroecks.com
an independent, co-educational school in Oxford with over 450 students aged 11-18
The school is extremely successful in meeting
the academic needs of all students and enabling them to achieve high standards.
Students are creative, thinkfor themselves and relish
stretching the boundaries oftheir knowledge.
ISI Inspection Report - October 2013
“We couldn’t fi nd a parent who was less than dewy-eyed about the place”
Good Schools Guide
“Outstanding” Latest ISI Inspection Report
For more details please contact:Mrs Karen Copson01235 858462 [email protected] Road, Abingdon, Oxon OX13 6LN
www.manorprep.org
OPEN DAYS Friday 24 January 2014 9.30am - 11.30am
Wednesday 12 March 2014 9.30am - 11.30am
Advertise in Families Oxfordshire call 01993 815966 or email [email protected]
Oxfordshire
