Families Oxfordshire Jan-Feb 2015

January/ February 2015 Oxfordshire Magazine www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

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Issue 65 - January/ February 2015

Families Oxfordshire - useful information for parents of 0 - 12's in Oxon. Find us online at familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Don't miss details of the 2015 Stagecoach Charity Spectacular on page 4!

Eat yourself pregnant!Choosing a nursery

See inside for

Plus

January/ February 2015 Oxfordshire Magazine www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk2

Kids learn to Tango & Salsa with Betty Bloom!

Betty Bloom Dance is a new local dance organisation offering a wide range of world dance styles and performance-oriented programmes in Tango, Salsa, the Charleston and a wide variety of traditional and modern styles. Founder, Kally Peigne, wants to introduce kids to the incredibly rich plethora of world dances styles and music genres, providing the foundations of social-dancing; a life-skill which will benefit them throughout their lives. Classes are for 2-15 year olds during term-time and most holidays.

For location details visit: www.bettybloomdance.co.uk

Four issues for £15.95 with code HAPPY15

Improve your life with Harvest magazine

ISSUE TWO

Winter 2014www.harvestmagazine.co.uk

Get outdoorsTake a walk and

discover nature’s treasures

Happy new year

Start off 2015 with clear goals

Going wildFind your own wild food this winter

Your seasonal companion to improving your life

King kaleDoes this superfood deserve its adolation?

Plus...DIY skincare solutions, warming winter soups,

natural support for sciatica

To join call 01869 331741 or visitwww.harvestmagazine.co.uk

Discover the UK’s first in-depth natural lifestyle magazine – your seasonal guide to a happy, healthy new you

What will you and the kids be wearing on 27 March?

Save the date for Wear A Hat Day 2015 – the UK’s fun-filled, premier annual brain tumour awareness event helping support long-term

research and saving lives. One of the UK’s best-loved national fundraising events is coming back for its sixth year running, on Friday 27 March.

Organised by Charity Brain Tumour Research, this year is offering a fun, fresh challenge: the Wear A Hat Day Awards! By asking families, children and schools across the UK to register and on March 27 join in the fun as the UK gets its hat on! www.wearahatday.org

Positive Steps Nursery Invites New Parents

Positive Steps Children's Nursery in Shellingford, are having an open day on Friday 16 January, from 9.30am-3pm. Positive Steps pride themselves on providing a caring, home-from-home environment for children from 6 weeks to 5 years. Savings of up to £260 for bookings made on the day of your visit.

For more details, please call 01367 718888 or visitwww.positivestepsnurseries.co.uk

NEW tots music classes in East Oxford

Saltbox Music for 0-4 year olds has started a new class at Florence Park Community Centre, on Tuesdays, 10.30am 0-4 years and 11.30am 0-18 months classes. Tots can learn world music with games and puppets and instruments from around the globe!

Booking required on 01993 704207 or email: [email protected]. Visit: www.saltboxmusic.co.uk

Busy mums conquer fatigue with Pharmaton

We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy

day and coping with everything can be an everyday battle.

Apparently, Pharmaton Vitality capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks. They are full of vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 clinically proven to relieve fatigue and aid mental and physical wellbeing. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies. Might be worth a try…

News & views

The UK’s ONLY crocodile zoo is in Oxfordshire

At Crocodiles of the World in Brize Norton you can get face-to-face with some of the world’s most effective

predators in a safe and fun environment.

There’s daily feeding, talks and your chance to hold some incredibly cute baby crocs. With over 100 species of crocodiles, it’s guaranteed to be a wild day out! And you’ll want to snap this one up! WIN a family ticket to Crocodiles of the World (2 adults, 2 children) by visiting www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk. We also have 5 super crocs calendars to give away! Simply get in touch through Families Oxfordshire online and we’ll send calendars to the first five people who write in!

January/ February 2015 Oxfordshire Magazine www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk 3

Editor: Ema Murphy01993 815966 - 07733 228 [email protected]

Next issue: March/April 2015Booking deadline: 1 February 2015Copy deadline: 7 February 2015 36,000 readers per issue Printed by WarnersDesigned by Rebecca Carr

Call 0845 400 1276 or visit perform.org.uk to find your nearest venue.Confidence

Building FunTry a Free Drama Class

In this issue...

Oxfordshire Magazine

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

12

13

15

Stagecoach Charity Spectacular 2015

News & views

School Matters

Education - State primary v prep schools

Parenting - which nursery’s best for your child

New Year, new approach to finances

Local clubs and classes

Eat yourself pregnant

Health - Being a good role model for your child

What’s on

9

8

12

15

How to Eat a Rainbow book give-away!This delightful book of vegan recipes for kids is by local author and food blogger, Ellie Bedford.

In hardback and published by Vegan Publishers (ISBN: 978-1-940184-04-3) this beautifully illustrated book is filled with mouth watering, nutritious recipes that children will love, but with a magical twist! The fairies share their special secrets that encourage

little ones to eat their veggies, because that's what gives the fairies their sparkle! We also have one signed book to giveaway!

Simply go to www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk and send in your details by 31 January. The first name to be picked will receive this wonderful book.

Call us today to book your space in our March/April Issue

Give-away


Sunday 8 March 2015 The New Theatre, Oxford

Looking For Elvis

The talented youngsters from Stagecoach Theatre Arts Oxford present ‘Looking for Elvis’, an action packed musical, full of energy, fun, song and dance to entertain the whole family. The youngsters are aged 4-18 and every two years, they gather together and produce a show in aid of local charities. Over 300 children and teens will take to the stage to rock the city in this musical spectacular. Many of the songs have been written specially for the show. The story follows an alien who bears an uncanny resemblance to Elvis, who must somehow escape the clutches of an evil government organisation. Only the school children can save him.

Maggie’s provides free practical, emotional and social support to people with cancer and their family and friends, following the ideas about cancer care originally laid out by Maggie Keswick Jencks. Built in the grounds of NHS cancer hospitals, Maggie’s Centres are places with professional staff on hand to offer the support people need.

Rosy (Respite nursing for Oxfordshire’s Sick Youngsters) is a charitable support group operating under the umbrella of the Oxfordshire Primary Care Trust Charity that is dedicated to the provision of additional respite care to Oxfordshire’s sick youngsters who are nursed at their own homes. Some children are born with life limiting or chronic conditions and others develop them early in their lives. Most can be nursed at home and children wish to be with their loved ones, their own pets, toys and familiar surroundings. Inevitably, this places an enormous burden on the families and ROSY provides them with support, both practical and nursing, to maintain their quality of life at the vital time.

www.atgtickets.comBook your tickets today for Looking for Elvis

The Stagecoach Oxford Charity Spectacular

Oxfordshire Magazine

"I love going to Stagecoach as I get to do singing, dancing and drama all of the time! Performing on the big stage for charity makes me feel really happy." Darcy Brennan-Murphy, aged 9

"Being in the Stagecoach Charity Spectacular, makes my mummy really proud and it helps me to improve my singing and dancing..."

Fin McDonagh, aged 8

Tickets range from £14.50 - £22. Booking fees may apply.


Inspiring and enriching young people through the performing arts.Stagecoach offers the ideal balance of learning, performing and, of course, fun! Top quality training in drama, singing and dance to inspire creativity and develop young talent age 4-18.

Skills for the stage – skills for life!

Stagecoach SchoolsOXFORD 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

Spring and summer shows now booking!

Stagecoach TM

T h e a t r e A r t s S c h o o l sT h e a t r e A r t s S c h o o l s

New Year, New Healthy Happy You!

Be inspired in 2015. Stretch your mind and improve your life with Harvest magazine; the UK’s first in-depth natural lifestyle magazine produced in Oxfordshire village of Tackly. It's your seasonal companion to help you and your family lead healthier, happier lives. Families Oxfordshire readers

can enjoy 20% off their first year’s subscription with code HAPPY15.

To find out more and subscribe online visitwww.harvestmagazine.co.uk

Thumbs up for hot school meals

Woodstock mum of two, Maria Clavier, would like to say how pleased she is now

compulsory school meals are in place for key stage 1 pupils. Because of this, her daughter Lucy, at Woodstock Primary School, is now eating her greens, thanks to sitting with fellow pupils who do the same! Maria also says how after-school tantrums Lucy used to have, have disappeared; "I'm certain it's because Lucy is now more satisfied for longer, after eating a warm meal at lunch time."

What’s On

We have more events and things to do for children than anyone else!

• Children's showsthroughout London

• Museums and galleries suitable forfamilies

• FREE events• Days out• Indoor fun• Special events (school Open days,

Christmas, Halloween, markets etc)

www.Familiesonline.co.uk

Sign in to our newsletter, packed with local events, shows, fairs, nearly new sales, exhibitions, competitions and much more

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Education

For more details please contact:Mrs Karen Copson01235 858462 [email protected]

Faringdon Road, Abingdon, Oxon OX13 6LN

www.manorprep.org

“Outstanding”in every category ISI Inspection Report 2014

“Outstanding”in every category

“Outstanding”in every category

“Outstanding”ISI Inspection Report 2014

OPEN DAY Thursday 22 January 2015 9.30am-11.30am

Rugby pro coaches’ local pupils

Abingdon School welcomed the World Cup winning scrum half and TV rugby pundit to the School where he coached 12 boys, from the First Year to the Sixth Form, on the basics

of playing scrum half. Matt also led a Q&A session with the 46 boys who will be touring Australia and New Zealand next August, giving the boys tips on the culture they will face play-ing rugby in New Zealand.

Over-praising pupils can lead to low attainment

A recent report by the Sutton Trust, ‘What Makes Great Teaching’, claims that lavishing praise on low-attaining students is not encouraging, but can in fact give a message of low expectations. Other commonly used teaching methods, such as streaming by ability, are shown to have little positive effect. Professor Robert Coe, from Durham University said: “Great teaching cannot be achieved by following a recipe, but there are some clear pointers in the research to approaches that are most likely to be effective, and to others, sometimes quite popular, that are not.”

Further reading: www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationopinion/11204935/What-really-makes-great-teaching.html

Manor Prep SchoolAbingdon, OX13 6LN01235 858462www.manorprep.orgOpen MorningThursday 22 January9.30am-11.30am

Cranford House Little Willows Nursery School Moulsford, OX10 9HT 01491 651218www.cranfordhouse.netOpen MorningFriday 13 February 10am – 12 noonJunior School Open Morning Thursday 26 February9.30am – 12 noonJunior School Open Week2-6 March9.30am – 3.00pmSenior School Open Evening Thursday 30 April 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Oxford High School Oxford, OX2 6XA01865 559888 www.oxfordhigh.gdst.netGirls, 4-18 yrsOpen days in autumn and summer terms.

Our Lady’s AbingdonAbingdon, OX14 3PS 01235 524658 www.olab.org.ukBoys & girls, 3-18 yrsOpen MorningThursday 12 March9.30am-11.45am

Abingdon Preparatory SchoolFrilford, OX13 5NX 01865 391570 www.abingdon.org.uk/prep Boys 4-13 yrs & girls 4-7 yrsOpen Morning ReceptionYear 4 Thursday 26 February

The Oratory Preparatory School Goring Heath, RG8 7SF0118 984 4511 www.oratoryprep.co.uk Catholic, co-ed day & boarding school, for 2-13 year oldsOpen Morning Saturday 7 March10am-12.30pm

Please contact the schools prior to the open days to confirm your attendance.

Independent School Open Days Spring 2015School Matters


State primary v prep school – the pros and consby Hannah Hunter

01865 391570 [email protected]/prep

Thursday 26 February

Open MorningAbingdon Prep School

for Reception to Year 4

Catholic independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 to 13

Goring Heath, South Oxfordshire, RG8 7SF

tel: 0118 984 4511 email: [email protected] website: www.oratoryprep.co.uk

Open MorningSaturday 7 March10.00am – 12.30pm

If you’re not lucky enough to live in catchment, getting your children into a good local primary school can be difficult, to say the least. Some inner-city areas have waiting lists into the 100s for primary schools rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted. In some areas, as few as one in four children get a place at their first choice of school.

We all want to give our children the best start in their educational life. If you can afford it, the independent sector can provide an alternative to the postcode lottery of the current state education system. There are an increasing number of parents looking at this route – a report from the association of Teachers and Lecturers shows numbers rising at their fastest rate since 2008.

Both systems have their benefits and drawbacks; it’s up to individual families to decide what’s best for them.

In favour of prep schoolsAssuming you have the means to pay the fees, a prep school can provide the ideal start for your child.

Small class sizes mean more one-to-one attention, helpful for children with learning difficulties or other additional needs. Teachers have time to challenge more able children - prep schools often have specific gifted programmes.

Their better working conditions, with more resources and higher salaries, mean that independent schools attract the best teachers. A higher staff to pupil ratio, on average about 1:10 (it’s around 1:20 at state primaries), gives staff and pupils time to get to know one another, resulting in children who feel really valued and cared for.

Prep schools were originally designed to prepare children for senior school, so if you’re looking at an independent secondary school they will ensure your child gets the best out of their common entrance exam (necessary in getting a scholarship or bursary). In grammar schools areas, prep schools will also offer preparation for the 11+.

It’s not just the academic kids who will benefit from what a prep school offers. Sport is taken very seriously, and they will offer a wide range, from rugby to badminton. They also cater for

other interests, offering a variety of extra-curricular activities, such as dance, drama and music, which you wouldn’t be able to access in the state system.

In defense of the state primary schoolOne huge advantage of going to a local primary school is that your child will be a real part of the community. They will be able to walk to school, their friends will live nearby, and they will get to know lots of people in the area. This early lesson in how society works teaches them how to get along with people from different races and classes.

Your local prep school might appear to be better in league tables, but they have a socially selected intake. Children from advantaged backgrounds will do better in life whatever their schooling. Taking a real interest in your kids – spending time with them, reading to them, taking them to museums – is surely better than working extra hours away from home to pay for large school fees.

It’s not a race! Just because a friend’s kids might be reading or playing the violin aged 4 at their local pre-prep, doesn’t mean your child won’t be doing similar things in their own time. Research indicates that state educated university students with the same grades as their independent-schooled counterparts actually achieve better class of degree.

Education


16th January 9.30am - 3pm

Open Day

Book during your visit and save up to £260

For many parents, nurseries are the ideal choice for childcare. They offer working hours, with a lot of flexibility - you can choose hours to suit you, from a few half days to full working weeks. Nurseries give children the opportunity to socialise with groups of other children and adults. They can also give a reassuring continuity of care, with an assigned key worker. Your child may be at the same setting from babyhood, right until they start at school.

For some, finding the right nursery can be a difficult and stressful process. The first time you hand over full-time care of your precious offspring to someone else is always going to be emotional, so you want to be absolutely sure that you have made the right choice for all of you.

Different types of nurseryIt’s important to research what’s available as early as possible to find the best fit. www.gov.uk/find-nursery-school-place

directs you to your local council’s website, which will list all Ofsted-checked registered childcare providers.

Your first visit Make time to look around potential nurseries, well before you are going to need to use them. Read the Ofsted report (www.ofsted.gov.uk) [Scotland: www.hmie.gov.uk ],and make a list of your priorities before you go. See if you can find out any first hand information from friends (though bear in mind what’s good for one family might not work for another).

Things to consider: Staff and ethosSee what the turnover of staff is (always a good indicator of happiness) and check their qualifications. The presence of older staff members brings added life experience and suggests that the nursery values its staff enough to pay for this. Check out the routines, such as what food they offer and when it’s served, or when and where the children can nap. CostBe realistic in how much you can pay. A perfect work-life balance doesn’t mean working more hours to pay for a ‘better’ nursery! Most nurseries have funded places for 3 to 5-year-olds, and your workplace may offer childcare vouchers, a tax-free way to pay. You may also be eligible for childcare tax credits, to find out more www.gov.uk/help-with-childcare-costs

The ‘feel’ of the placeGoing by gut instinct alone isn’t advisable, but if you don’t get a good feeling, it might not be the place for your child. Happy staff and children can make up for a lack of perfection in other areas. Look out for children’s work on the walls, and staff who actually play with the kids rather than stand around chatting.

Your child’s personalityIs your child quiet and shy, or loud and outgoing? Do they love playing outdoors, or prefer indoor games? It seems obvious, but try to match the nursery to your child’s interests.

Your own needs!There might be a wonderful nursery half an hour drive away from you, but consider how will both of your tiredness levels be after this daily journey - would you be better to find somewhere closer that is a good fit? Equally the most convenient, say a work-place nursery, may not be the best for your child. Useful links www.ndna.org.uk National Day Nurseries Association offer expert advice and information for parents looking for childcare. The Family and Childcare Trust is a campaigning organisation with helpful information for parents. This site will help you find your local Family Information Service: http://findyourfis.familyandchildcaretrust.org/kb5/findyourfis/home.page giving local information, advice and assistance to parents, carers and professionals on the range of children, family and young people's services.

www.ofsted.gov.ukwww.montessori.org.ukhttp://www.steinerwaldorf.org

Day NurseriesGreat for working parents, as they are usually open from 8am-6pm

Nursery SchoolsFor older toddlers (usually about 2 and a half and up) these nurseries offer a more structured preparation for school

Nursery classes in schoolUsually run for the year before reception, they have a similar structure to nursery schools, though often only run half-day sessions.

Montessori and Steiner nurseriesMontessori philosophy informs how their schools are run, they are seen as the originators of child centred learning, and there is a focus on developing each child’s independence and skills. Focusing on creative play, Steiner schools don’t believe in any formal teaching until the age of 6.

Read more here: www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/Chiltern/Articles2/Nursery-and-preschool/What-are-all-the-different-types-of-nursery/(language)/eng-GB

Your different options may include:

Choosing the best nursery


New ways of sorting finances this new year

EXCELLENT in all categories, ISI 2014

www.cranfordhouse.net Telephone: 01491 651218An independent school, boys from 3-7, girls from 3-16

Registered Charity Number: 280883

JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING 26 FEBRUARY

Please join us for our Junior School Open Morning on Thursday 26 February, 9.30am – 12 noon Future Open Events in 2015:Little Willows Open Morning: 13 February, 10.00am – 12 noonJunior School Open Week: 2 – 6 March, 9.30am – 3.00pm For more information contact our Director of Admissions on 01491 651218 or [email protected]

2 Create your loan request. With some sites you will be able to appeal directly to the lenders so you can write (anonymously) about your requirements and why lenders should feel comfortable lending to you. Other sites will automatically match you with lenders whose preferences match your loan request. Always be truthful because all reputable sites will check your credit references and your ability to repay.

3 Lenders then offer a portion of your loan each, combining together to satisfy your whole loan.

4 You accept or reject your loan offer. Assuming you accept the loan, the site will manage the process for you, collecting your repayments and distributing them to the lenders who backed your loan.

P2PL offers flexibility and choice to the borrower, and can be much cheaper. Of course any form of borrowing isn’t without risk, and as with a credit card or bank loan, if you miss monthly payments, this could seriously harm your credit record.

If you feel comfortable with managing debtbut just want an affordable option, the

internet can offer a valuable guide to the alternatives like P2P lending out there. A quick Google search will reveal most of the P2PL providers, who are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The Peer to Peer Finance Association (p2pfa.info) is also a good reference point as it requires its members to operate by a strict set of rules to maintain high standards in the industry. Shop around to find the lending platform out there that best suits your needs.

Make it your New Year’s resolution in 2015 to keep your finances in check and make your money work harder for you!

By Sally Johnson, Director, Madiston LendLoanInvest

Any parent knows how difficult it can be to say ‘no’ to your kids. You may have already felt this over Christmas, when the anticipation can be so intense for young children, to disappoint them on the big day feels like utter cruelty.

But the reality is that many parents struggle to find the cash to tick off everything on the list at Christmas and resort to piling up expensive credit card debt to cover the costs. This can leave parents in an unenviable position of playing catch-up on debt in the New Year. Many credit cards have interest rates of up to 30 per cent, so this can become quite a mountain to climb as the year progresses and the bills mount up. However there are now plenty of alternative finance routes; accessible online platforms that can help borrowers with good credit records to get unsecured loans to pay off expensive credit card debt at sensible rates.

£ ?

Peer to peer lending (P2PL) Started online in 2005, giving people the opportunity to make the most of their finances through either lending their money to grow their savings, or borrowing at a reasonable rate, to and from their ‘peers’.

But how does it actually work? Borrowing money from a P2PL website is no more complicated than applying for a credit card. You first have to register with your chosen site and take some time to understand the terms and how the site operates. You will need to be creditworthy to be accepted on any reputable site, so if you’ve had problems with debt in the past, P2PL may not be for you. Once you have registered on the site, there are generally four basic steps to secure your loan. You will need to decide:

how much you want to borrow

how long you want to borrow for

how much interest you are prepared to pay

1 APR

Put down the gadgets for more family time in 2015

In a world with ever-increasing technological mediums, the balance between electronic and traditional play can become uneven. While there’s a great place for learning through apps, computers and TV, it’s often an activity of solitude. Why not redress this balance and make more of an effort to interact as a family more traditionally more often?

Engage with your child in a FUN activity. It could be cooking, making things, drawing, story-telling or playing a board game. Or get outdoors for a walk, head to the park or go for an ice-cream or hot chocolate at your nearest café. We’re sure you may already be doing this, as most families do engage in some form of traditional play. But the New Year’s a good time to look at the time we are spending with our children and what we do with it. Let’s spend more quality time together as a family - with a little less gadgetry!

Finance


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

WhiteStar_Advert.indd 1 15/10/2013 16:40:23

swimming classes for

bumps, babies and beyond

across Oxfordshire

Find a class near you...facebook.com/[email protected] 663814 www.swimkidz.co.uk

Free Happy Nappy when you book a course

Clubs & classesAt Families we want to help you to find suitable activities for your children. Our mission 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 Sept-October 2015 issue. If you do make contact with any of these classes, remember to say where you saw them.

McGahan Lees Irish Dance Academy07971 035 797 www.marionflanagon.co.ukIrish dancing for children 3 upwards and adults in Oxford, Abingdon and Bicester. (Formerly Marion Flanagon School.) Private lessons and holiday workshops available.

Babyballet 07583048496www.babyballet.co.ukA magical movement-to-music class for little dancers aged 6 months-5 years with Charlotte Russell. Classes in Witney.

Flair Dance Studio01993 813373www.flairdancestudio.co.ukFreestyle disco and street dance classes in Oxford, Woodstock, Witney and Bicester for all ages

The Jill Stew School of Dance 01993 772464www.jillstew.co.ukClasses in Witney. Classical Ballet from 3yrs, Modern Dance, Tap Dancing, Contemporary Dance, Jazz Dance and much more.

Marianna’s School of Dance 07747 481 798Fun & inspiring ballet with RAD possibility for exams. At the Yoga Garden. Behind Cibo’s, South Parade, Summertown.

Tiny Tigers Education 01235 364371 theresa@candomartialarts.co.ukwww.tinytigerseducation.co.ukExciting karate based motor skills development for 2-6 year olds.

Nature Tots 01235 [email protected] pre-school ages to interact with nature through outdoor play, games and stories in Sutton Courtenay Environment Centre.

Baby College 01865 436920www.babycollegeoxford.co.ukFun parent and baby development classes in Botley and Witney. Plus baby massage and yoga classes.

Baby Signing 07927 339 102www.tinytalk.co.ukWith Tiny Talk for 0-2 yrs, singing, sign and relax at Drayton Village Hall, Abingdon OX14 4LG.

Tatty & Baby Bumpkin 0845 680 3476www.tattybumpkin.comTo enhance well-being with yoga, story-telling, active play and music

Rugbytots 0845 313 6707www.rugbytots.co.ukRugbytots is a specially designed programme using rugby skills, fun and enjoyable whilst developing basic core skills 2-7 year olds.

Robert Wiecha Music Tuition07450 296 [email protected] and adults learn to play the piano or guitar by classically trained teacher with home visits.

My Sound My Self - Musicianship07545 122 869 www.mysoundmyself.comEducational and fun singing and musicianship classes (Kodály specialisation) for ages 3+, music therapy and mindfulness training for 11-19 year olds. Small classes in Oxford, facilitate learning, development and discovery.

DANCE

Whitestar PerformersA host of classes for everyone beginning on 13th January 2015 including Family Yoga for parents, grandparents and carers, Mini Stars Dance classes for 3-6’s, Stage School for 7-12’s all in Kidlington.There is also Hatha Yoga for adults in Kidlington and Witney along with a more gentle yoga class.

[email protected] www.whitestaryogaanddance.co.uk

Betty Bloom Dance www.bettybloomdance.co.ukGreat new classes for Tango, Salsa, the Charleston and a wide variety of other styles of dance, traditional and modern, offering a wide range of world dance styles and performance-oriented programmes. Introducing kids to a rich plethora of world dances styles and music genres. Classes for children from 2-15years in term-time and most holidays.

BABY & TOTS

Little Wild Things 07855 625 402www.littlewildthings.org.ukLittle Wild Things is all about outdoor nature play for children, making mud pies, climbing trees and building dens, set in an Oxfordshire woodland! Including hands-on sessions for children and their families. Get your little ones to spend more time outdoors to learn to understand, love and be inspired by nature. Visit our website for up-to-date details about activities.

MUSIC

Clockwork Music 07528 146 891 / 07757 011 539 www.clockworkmusic.co.ukPre-school music classes following a specialist music curriculum for babies from three months to 4 years, in four age specific groups. Original and traditional music, rhymes and games. In Central and North Oxford, Headington, Kennington, Abingdon and Thame. Free trial sessions! New classes opening in North Oxford

Clubs & Classes


Pre-school Music ClassesOxford, Thame, Headington, Abingdon

Oxford (St Giles) and [email protected] (or 07528 146891)

Thame, Headington, [email protected] (or 07757 011539)

www.clockworkmusic.co.uk

Specialist music curriculum for babies from three months

to four year-olds, in four progressive classes

Free Trial

Matrix Music School & Arts Centre01235 847264www.matrixmusicschool.co.ukThe Yamaha Music School at Matrix offers group music courses for beginners aged 3-7 years. The curriculum includes singing, piano/keyboard playing, reading/writing, music appreciation and more at various levels. Also at Matrix: art, ballet, fitness and instrumental lessons.

MAD Academy 01869 369502www.madacademy.comHigh energy music and dancing classes for babies and children.

BirdSong Music 01865 559649www.birdsongmusic.co.ukBirdSong runs classes for babies, toddlers and young children with a philosophy based on learning about music while having fun, involving singing in groups and linking music with movement. Classes are held in Summertown and Wolvercote.

Water Babies 01869 325499www.waterbabies.co.ukTeaching babies to swim in various locations in Oxford core skills from birth upwards.

Dippers & Divers 01235 763328www.dippersanddivers.co.ukFor babies, beginners and after school in Abingdon, Wolvercote and Harwell Primary School.

Oxford Swim School 01865 864537www.oxfordswimschool.co.ukAn exciting venture at Oxford High School, Summertown. Intensive week courses and more.

Learn to swim With Jane Brooks 07855 324417www.janebrooksgymandswim ASA Swimming teacher.

Puddleducks 01666 577377www.puddleducks.comFor babies and pre-school ages upwards. Classes in Abingdon, Didcot and Oxford areas.

Washinkai Karate www.washinkai.org Cherwell School, Oxford. 5.30-6.30pm, Mon for ages 5-11

Kung Fu Academy www.kung-fu-academy.co.ukSouth Oxfordshire Community Centre, Lake St. Oxford. 7.30pm. Traditional martial arts classes.

Oxfordshire Taekwon-do & Little Puma’s07831 950 850www.oxfordshiretkd.co.ukFor all ages in Didcot, Wantage and Grove.

Oxford Karate Academy 07956 902 101United Reform Church, Banbury Rd, Oxford, OX2 7HN. Karate for all ages.

Youngstar Oxford 01235 539772www.youngstaroxford.tv/TV & Film acting for 8-18’s. Nurturing talented actors hoping for a route in to TV and film.

Mini media workshops www.mini-mediakids.comCreative fun for 6-11 years at Barefoot Books, Summertown.

TRAX Motor Project 01865 243077www.trax.org.ukActivity days for ages 8+. Mechanics, archery and more in a safe environment.

Creative Art 01608 677558www.lisajayne.uk.comAt the Lisa Jane Art Studio at The Stables, Radford Farm, Nr Enstone, Oxfordshire OX7 4EB.

Abingdon Gymnastics Club 01865 340992www.abingdongymclub.co.ukFor tots and pre-school upwards and holiday classes for a wide range of gymnastics.

Oxford Rhythmic Gymnastics 07866846273 [email protected] girls from ages 3-16 who want to master rhythm and skills.

Little Monkeys Gym 01865 841409janebrooksgymandswim.comLittle Monkeys Gym teaches pre-school gymnastics to children who can walk up to 4.

Premier Tennis 0845 475 1147 [email protected] www.premiertennis.co.ukTennis coaching and camps for tots to teenagers and adults in Oxford.

Little Kickers 01235 859 250www.littlekickers.co.uk Football classes for kids 18 months-7 years. In Oxford, Didcot, Wallingford & Wantage.

Kidlington Youth Football [email protected]

Charlbury Cricket Club07818 255 [email protected]

Witney and Standlake Tennis Club07734 059 769 [email protected]

Rugby at Gosford All Blacks 01865 373994

Pregnancy Yoga01865 245754www.yogavenue.co.ukAt Yogavenue. Suitable for 14 weeks plus. 6 week course.

Salt Box Music Co.01993 704207 / 07710154601www.saltboxmusic.co.ukFun & educational group music sessions for 0- 4 year olds; Global percussion! Puppets & props! Musical games! Instruments used from all over the world. Weekly classes include a wide range of techniques to develop core skills such as rhythm, tempo, pitch, texture, and dynamics, now in East Oxford (Florence Park), Witney, Botley and Carterton. Free taster sessions.

SWIMMING

Swimkidz [email protected] and stimulating swimming lessons for children from birth, across Oxfordshire. With highly qualified instructors, warm pools and small class sizes to ensure you and your child enjoy and achieve the best from their lessons.

MARTIAL ARTS

Stagecoach 01869 278600 [email protected]/oxfordshireWhere 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.

Perform 0845 400 1276 [email protected]/venues/areas/OxfordFor 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.

THEATRE/ PERFORMANCE

ACTIVITIES

GYMNASTICS

SPORTS

Teen Fit Classes 07724 010 664 www.bodyfitsolutions.co.ukBody Fit Solutions in Witney do innovative classes for 13-18 year olds on Wednesdays and Fridays 4pm, encouraging them to get active, fit and healthy in body and in mind. Visit or call for more information and many other classes for adults including Pilates.

YOGA

Clubs & Classes


Forget faddy diets - Nutritionist Christine Bailey explains how to boost your chances of conceiving a healthy baby by optimising your intake of essential fertility nutrients. My research and experience as a nutritionist has shown me that nutrient dense, unprocessed food (and supplements as necessary) forms the bedrock of getting your body baby-ready and of making healthy eggs and sperm. There is now much scientific evidence to indicate that micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) play a big role in getting pregnant – both naturally and through assisted conception – with deficiencies having significant effects on fertility for both men and women. It is for this reason I wrote my latest recipe book Eat Yourself Pregnant with fertility expert Zita West (www.christinebailey.co.uk). Here are some of the top nutrients you and your partner need to give you the best chance of conceiving a healthy baby.

Folic AcidMost of us will be aware of the role of folic acid in preventing spina bifida in your baby, so it is essential that you get plenty both before and during pregnancy. However folic acid together with other B vitamins (especially B12 and B6) are also vital for the production of genetic materials DNA and RNA, not only of the egg but also the sperm. Increase your intake of leafy green vegetables, avocado and asparagus. For B12 make sure you consume sufficient protein rich foods such as fish, meat, dairy products and eggs.

ZincZinc has been widely studied in terms of fertility for both men and women. It is an essential component of genetic material and a zinc deficiency can lead to reduced fertility and an increased risk of miscarriage. Make

sure your man gets plenty too as low levels are linked to reduced sperm count. Best foods include: pumpkin seeds, lean meat and poultry, shellfish particularly oysters.

Selenium & Vitamin ESelenium and vitamin E are important antioxidant that helps to protect your body from damaging chemicals known as free radicals. It is therefore helpful for protecting the egg and also important for sperm formation. Munch on a handful of Brazil nuts a day to keep up your levels of selenium or snack on nuts and seeds for vitamin E.

Omega 3 Fatty AcidsThese essential fats have a profound effect on your hormones so don’t go on a low fat diet. Eat plenty of oily fish, flaxseed, walnuts and chia seeds. Sperm quality can be improved by having an optimum levels of these fats.

Vitamin CVitamin C is also an antioxidant, and studies show that vitamin C enhances sperm quality, protecting sperm and the DNA within it from damage. It may also improve motility of the sperm by preventing them from clumping together. Some of the best sources are citrus fruit, leafy green vegetables and berries.

Beta-Carotene and Vitamin ABeta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant, which helps to protect egg and sperm DNA from damage, which can affect the quality of both the egg, and sperm. Foods such as sweet potato, butternut squash and green leaf vegetables are great sources. Vitamin A is a vital nutrient for the production of healthy eggs and mucosal tissue. High doses in supplement form are not recommended during pregnancy.

IodineIodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones and thus important for a women’s hormonal cycle control as well as for the development of the foetus. The best sources really are sea vegetables or try increasing your intake of fish, shellfish and eggs

Vitamin DLow vitamin D deficiency is significant for male fertility, as it affects the motility of the sperm the sperm nucleus. It may also be associated with lower libido. Best source is sunlight but you can get some through oily fish, eggs and mushrooms.

Further information and healthy recipes to support fertility and a healthy pregnancy can be found in Eat Yourself Pregnant by Zita West and Christine Bailey (Nourish Books) www.christinebailey.co.uk.

New Year New You: time to detox our lives? Many of us wake up on January 1st feeling exhausted from Christmas, a little worse for wear from the night before and desperate for the kids to go back to school. But we also find ourselves scribbling lists of New Year’s resolutions – to get fit, lose weight, get stuck in to that pile of paperwork on the kitchen table and, often, to give our working lives a shake up too.

The New Year is not just about detox-ing our bodies – it can also be a time to detox our lives. In fact, January is a fantastic time for those of us with children in nursery or full time education for the first time to go back to work, start a new venture, set up our own business

or to re-train in something that will get us leaping out of bed every morning!From a new job or a whole new career, the world is your oyster as a working mum. If your hours are limited by the school run, setting up your own business or taking up a franchise can offer you the opportunity to do something you love while working flexible hours, and the options are limitless.

You can choose anything from running a yoga franchise to teaching little ones dance or drama, from teaching Spanish to starting your own Families magazine!

Take a course, start a marketing business, design websites, set up a blog, open a café – it’s up to you.

There are plenty of websites out there to help you get started and find a new job, re-train, choose the right business, give you ideas, advise you on tax and even help you design your logo, so there’s no excuse not to get stuck in this New Year.

Take a look at:www.gov.uk/starting-up-a-businesswww.workingmums.co.ukwww.mumandcareer.co.ukwww.mumandworking.co.uk

Eat yourself pregnantHealth & Fitness


55346 Pharmaton UK AD 87mm x 130mm AW.indd 1 08/07/2014 12:44

Are you a healthy role model for your children?

According to the health survey of England more than 1/3 of the population are not doing enough exercise to produce health benefits. We know physical activity is closely linked to good health and disease prevention but how do parent’s activity levels affect the future fitness level of their child? Young children are not just “naturally active”. Their parents have an important role to play in the development of their healthy activity habits. Our children have a better chance of being healthy and active if they see their parents doing it. Kelly Vanderboom, professional fitness instructor at Body Fit Solutions in Witney, asks are we physically active role models for our kids? Do we have a positive relationship with exercise and food that will be passed onto our children? And explains what we can do to help our children to be active and healthy, now and into adulthood.

Our HabitsPeople can be less active because of sedentary jobs, more driving, more computer gaming, online shopping (delivered to your door!), watching TV and quicker alternatives to cooking. The modern adult spends about seven hours a day sitting and this has major effects on posture, fitness and energy levels. Posture imbalances caused from sitting too much and being less active are major factors in the chronic pain we see in the clients we train at our Pilates and Fitness Studio in Witney.

One quarter of the adult population of England are overweight and 20% of children aged 6-11years are obese. Even in the 4-5 year range 13% were overweight. Overweight parents tend over feed and under-exercise their children, according to research, leading them on the same path to obesity. Therefore, educating children on eating healthy and being more active needs to come from home.

Modern Life As computers, i-pads and mobile phones consume more time in a child’s life, children risk becoming less and less physically fit.

• The child health journal Acta Paediatrica found the arm strength of 10 year olds has declined in the last 10 years.

• More teenagers are developing poor posture due to being slumped over computer games and watching too much television. This poor posture can lead to back problems later in life.

• A UK study of 6,500 children aged seven to eight, found that only 51% achieved the recommended hour of physical activity each day, with girls (38%) proving to be far less active than boys (63%).

• The average British child gets their first mobile phone aged around 12, but nearly one in 10 has one by the age of five. FIVE!

It's during childhood when habits are ingrained and the freedom exists for active play and movement. What happened to kids coming home from school and running outside to play? Are you taking time to actively participate with your children whenever you can? When did we stop being kids ourselves? I believe the more we can tap into our inner child and start to enjoy exercise more this will be infectious for our kids.

So Start with yourself. Are you participating in some regular exercise each week? Do you eat healthy and understand what a balanced diet and portion size is for your children? Go for a family play swim, go rock climbing, join a dance class and teach your kids the moves or play on the active Wii games together as a family. If your children can see that you are participating in regular exercise for yourself and taking time out they will follow suit.

Join your 13-18 years olds into a Teen Fit program Wednesdays and Fridays 4pm or sign up yourself for our Vision Wild Run. This 5-10km mud run through dirty obstacles is a real challenge and a chance to make your kids proud.

Learn to be a kid again and enjoy the health benefits from being physically active. In this generation of declining activity and increasing technology we have to keep the spirit of exercise alive!

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” George Bernard Shaw

Author: Kelly Vanderboom

Kelly is an Honours graduate of Kinesiology and Sports Science, Master Pilates therapist, Personal Trainer and Sports Rehab Specialist. She has 15 years in the fitness industry working with children and adults to help them build healthy lifestyles for life. Her core values are to help people be active longer with intelligent exercise and focus on good form and technique. She is passionate about her work and thrives on changing lives for the better.

Body Fit Solutions, Bridge Street Mill, Witney, OX28 1YH07724010664 [email protected]

Health & Fitness


Big enough to challenge: small enough to care

Independent Catholic boarding and day school for 400 girls aged 3-18 (and day boys aged 3-8)

Pullen’s Lane, Oxford OX3 0BY

01865 762802 [email protected] www.ryestantony.co.uk

Visitors are welcome throughout the year, please just telephone the Registrar, Fern Saxton to make an appointment.

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?

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What's on in January & FebruaryFor a comprehensive list of what’s on at each venue please refer to the websites. We can only include a small number of events, space depending. Families cannot be responsible for any changes of dates or other details.

ThEaTRE & MuSICSnow White on Ice8-11 JanuaryNew Theatre, Oxford2.30pm, 3pm & 7.30pmThe world famous Russian Ice Stars will take you on a magical journey to the heart of the best loved fairytale of all time, Snow White. Starring Rustie Lee as Fairy News Reporter. The original story of an enchanted mirror, a beautiful girl, Prince Charming and a red apple comes to life on ice. Sure to thrill the whole family. Check online for daily times. www.atgtickets.com

Once in a Blue Moon10 JanuaryPegasus Theatre11am, 2pmIt’s the moons birthday and he is having a party! All are invited but how to get there? Journey to the moon and meet curious creatures along the way, with dance, live music audience participation will provide a magical experience. For ages 3-6. Plus free workshop for families on 8 Jan. Check online for more details! £5 adult, £3 child.www.pegasustheatre.org.uk

The Magic Porridge Pot and Other Tasty Tales21-22 JanuaryThe North Wall11am & 2pmThe Theatre of Widdershins presents these three yummy yarns which you know so well are served with unexpected spices and quirky flavours, along with Widdershins’ trademark ingredients of puppets, pop-up sets and original music. Bon Appetit! £7. Ages 3+www.thenorthwall.com

anniversary Cushion

Concert25 JanuaryJacqueline du Pre Music Building, St hilda’s CollegeRozzy and Mr Cello are joined by their highly acclaimed friends the Millbrook Ensemble piano quartet to introduce children to the exciting world of chamber music for piano and strings. Hear how the different voices of the instruments weave together to create magical musical stories! £5. 11am www.sthildas.ox.ac.uk/jdp

FaME the Musical28 - 31 JanuaryKenton TheatreHenley-on-ThamesSet in New York’s celebrated High School for Performing Arts on 46th Street. The musical is an inspirin story of students as they commit to 4 years of tough academic work. With humour and insight and one for all the family to enjoy. £15 adult, £13 child.www.kentontheatre.co.uk

Magic - abridged!31 January Cornerstone, Didcot2pm, £8/£6/£24. Ages 5+A funny and informative magic show with plenty of chances to join in! Otiz guides you through magic’s chequered story with plenty of tricks up his sleeve. Genuine information punctuated by delightful nonsense; to create a unique magic show for all to enjoy. www.cornerstone-arts.org.uk

Cushion Concert8 February10am, 11am under 5’s, 12 noon over 5’sRozzy and Mr Cello introduce the Harpsichord for children and their families. £5/£16 Family www.sthildas.ox.ac.uk/jdp

Shoe Kangaroo and the Big Bad Boot15 FebruaryCornerstone, Didcot2pm, £8/£6/£24. Ages 4+ Did you ever lose a shoe? That tumbled into a bird that flew, over the sea to an island new, where creatures strange and mysterious grew. Garlic Theatre take you on a journey to the island of lost shoes with clowning, mime and crafted puppets. www.cornerstone-arts.org.uk

The Sooty Show17 FebruaryNew Theatre, Oxford11am, 2.30pmDirect from CITV, Sooty heads into town in a fabulous new show to delight the whole family. Joining the nation’s favourite bear will be Sweep, Soo and Sooty's TV partner Richard Cadell!www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-theatre-oxford/

Book tickets online and plan your visit at www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk

•Crocodile encounters and handling

•Keeper experiences and much more!

•Birthday parties

HAVE A WILD TIMEAT THE UK’S ONLY CROCODILE ZOO!

Beauty and the Beastuntil 18 Jan The Oxford PlayhouseBeauty and the Beast gets a magical makeover, in this wonderful retelling of the classic tale, bursting with songs, slapstick and plenty of panto mischief, when heroine, Beauty, takes a wrong turn in the forest she is trapped by a dastardly beast: can she discover the heart of a monster? With daring stunts, fairies, monsters, witches and true love, there’s something for everyone in this brilliant festive fun. Everyone aged 5 to 105 will all fall in love with this beautiful Pantomime. It’d be beastly to miss it!www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Please always check with the venue before attending any

events listed in case details have changed since we went to press.

© F

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January/ February 2015 Oxfordshire Magazine www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk16 Call 01993 815 966 to advertise with us

Comedy Club 4 Kids20 February The Oxford Playhouse5pmEnjoy the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best just without the rude bits! An hour of laughter and fun for all the family. It’s just like a normal comedy club but with an audience as young as six this half term. Features CBBC’s Stu Goldsmith and others. £9/£7. Ages 6+

DIaRy DaTES & halF TERM

Fantastic Free Entrance & Garden Walks 2 - 31 January onlyWaterperry Gardens, Nr Wheatley10am-5pmVisit the Gardens for free and make a special trip even more enjoyable! With free garden walks every Wednesday with the Garden team at 11.30am. www.waterperrygardens.co.uk

Star Walk30 JanuaryEarth Trust, little Wittenham, OX14 4QZ6pm-8pmJoin in with a starlit countryside walk with Dr Russell Layberry from ECI Oxford University. Don’t forget your flask of hot chocolate! £5 adult, £2 child. Booking essential.

Free family friendly funEvery Sunday throughout FebruaryPitt Rivers Museum & Oxford university Museum of Natural history2pm-4pmVisit either museums for a relaxing afternoon. Try activity backpacks, sorting boxes, trails, colouring sheets, story corner and craft activities. For all ages.

Pitt Stops First Saturday of the month 1pm - 4pm (& in school hols)Fun ways to explore the Museum and discover more about our exciting collections. Make something super to take home. Suitable for all ages.

RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch25 JanuaryRiver & Rowing Museum, henley on Thames10.30am-3.30pmLots of fun wildlife-related activities to enjoy, including making animal masks, dragonflies and bird feeders. Use binoculars to spot birds in the wildlife garden! 50% discount on entry for RSPB members. Free (with admission.)

Science Club Snowflake Special31 January Oxford Castle Quarter 10:30am, 12 noon & 2pm£7 per child + 1 adult. Ages 5-11. Everyone’s different in their own way, and so are snowflakes. But how do snowflakes form and why is each one unique? Join Science Oxford Live for a winter workshop to pick your favourite frozen shapes and grow your very own snowflake to take home. [email protected]

harry Potter Book Night5 February The Story Museum, Oxford, OX1 1BP5pm-7pm, FREEThe first book night ever seen, this exciting event gives new and existing fans a chance to share the wonder of J K Rowling’s stories and to introduce the next generation of readers in to this world! Inviting schools, bookshops, libraries and other groups to host early evening events in celebration of the night. For adults, teenagers and children.www.storymuseum.org.uk

Spring Steam Gala13 - 15 February Mid hants RailwayThe Railway Station, Station Road, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JGThe spectacular Spring Steam Gala’s a dazzling display of steam powered magic! Giving you the opportunity to ride behind as many of the engines as possible over three days. Adult £25, Child (aged 2-16) £13, Child under 2 FREE Family ticket £63. www.watercressline.co.uk

The New Churchill Exhibition14 FebruaryBlenheim Palace, WoodstockThe Palace re-opens with the newly refreshed permanent Churchill exhibition taking you on the journey of his life, starting with his birth at Blenheim Palace, and the many accolades he achieved. Brought to life with photos, extracts from his diaries, artefacts and more. www.blenheimpalace.com

Guided nature walksFirst Sunday of the month Ewelme Watercress BedsOxon. 10.30amTake a guided walk with knowledgeable guides through nature reserve situated next to the watercress beds. No need to book. No dogs allowed except guide dogs. Free parking next to the playing field. Adults £3, children FREE. Refreshments available. Tel: 01491 835173.

Winter Wonder Trial10 January - 1 Marchuniversity of Oxford Botanic Garden9am-3.15pmThe Garden may appear asleep, but take the trail to find early signs of spring, looking at leaf buds, blossom, bulbs and evergreens. A nice way to get small children interested all things that grow!www.botanic-garden.ox.ac.uk

half term activities Fabulous Fairtrade Fruits18 February university of Oxford Botanic Garden11am-1pmHelp decorate a giant rainforest vine with collage fruits and funky leaves. Find real tropical fruits growing in the Glasshouses. Drop in. Free with entry to garden.www.botanic-garden.ox.ac.uk

half term activities16 - 20 FebruaryOxford Castle unlockedIn a twist to the classic guided tour, castle characters will guide visitors in tower rooms, prison cells and in the atmospheric crypt, these inhabitants will linger, waiting to greet and tell their tale. £10.25/£8.75/£6.95/Family £32.95www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk

half term activities16 - 20 February Pitt Rivers Museum & Oxford university Museum of Natural historyFrom art activities and trails, to handling tables and family talks, you'll want to try it all! Suitable for all ages. www.prm.ox.ac.uk

half term activities alphabet I Spy14 - 22 February Waterperry GardensNr Wheatley10am - 5pmSpy the whole alphabet and win a seasonal Waterperry prize and don’t miss the unusual characters hidden in the gardens for an extra surprise! £2 per child (must be accompanied by an adult paying garden entrance price £6.80).www.waterperrygardens.co.uk

half term activities16 - 20 FebruaryRiver & Rowing Museum Henley on Thames Various activities for little ones and families to enjoy, ranging from Tini Tiny Town, Silk Painting, Busy Bees and Fables and Fairytales! Visit website for details.www.rrm.co.uk

half term activities19 February Build your Own PlanetariumKennington Village Hall, Kennington Road, Oxford, OX1 5PG. Be a star and create your own planetarium that projects constellations onto the wall. Find shooting stars and get top tips for meteor spotting. An experiment will help you find your own micrometeorites at home! Join Sarah Bearchell of ‘Sarah’s Adventures in Science’ for a cosmic half-term workshop. £5/£16. Ages 6+, 11am, [email protected]

half term activities14 - 22 FebruaryKnights’ & Princesses’ Waddesdon Manor11am-4pmIt’s Knights' and Princesses' Week at the Manor, so get dressed up in your finery for a week of medieval fun! Are you brave enough to complete the Knight's Quest? Once you've returned from your adventures, you can have a go at craft activities. Fancy dress welcome. £2 per child. Normal garden admissions apply.www.waddesdon.org.uk

Feature in our what's on guide by sending your details by the 1st of the

month, BEFORE the issue date of the magazine!

What's on

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Families Oxfordshire Jan-Feb 2015