CO DURHAM & DARLINGTON WHERE TO GO WHATS ON COMPETITIONS MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk SPRING 2024
2 raring2go.co.uk 3 Raring2go! Raring2go! Booking is Essential The Red House difference: + Best in the North East in the Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’ 2024. We are recognised once again as the top school in the North East in our category in the Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’ League Tables and 7th nationally + 2023 GCSE results: 99.2% of grades were 9-4 (A*-C). Outperforming local independent and state school. Surpassing the national average of 69.4% + Small class sizes + Unique family atmosphere + Extensive co-curricular activities + Focus on teaching and learning, not testing + Bespoke education, tailored to the needs of the children + Flexible wrap around care from 7.30am-6pm + Holiday club - the school is open 50 weeks of the year + Far reaching coach service + Competitive fees T 01642 558119 E admissions@redhouseschool.co.uk redhouseschool.co.uk Independent School | Norton Twilight Tours Thursday 16 May Nursery & Junior School 4-6pm Senior School 4.30-6.30pm Come and discover what Red House School has to offer. Hello! We are thrilled to launch our second edition as the new editors and are excited to continue on this journey with you! Our mission is to bring you the latest news, updates, and insider tips on all the incredible family entertainment and excursions happening in our area. But we can't do this alone - we need your support! We believe in the power of community and collaboration, which is why we're reaching out to you. We are a dynamic platform where families can discover the best activities, events, and attractions our area has to offer. Whether it's a weekend adventure, a fun day out, or learning experiences, we are your go-to guide! Be the rst to know about exciting new excursions, exclusive discounts, special offers and win FREE family tickets to some of the most sought-after attractions in our area by subscribing to all our social channels and newsletter via www.raring2go.co.uk Become a part of the Raring2go! community. Share your experiences, recommendations, and photos with us by tagging us and getting featured on our social platforms. Let's create a space where we can connect, inspire, and support one another! Nadeem, Ayesha, Mikaail and Jibrael. teesdurham@raring2go.co.uk 07787 584878 /R2gTeesDurham 4
4 raring2go.co.uk 5 Raring2go! LEARN Raring2go! LEARN Swimming & Soft Play for Little Ones Under 3s go FREE at Tees Active’s 4 pools (Billingham Forum, IB Leisure, Stockton Splash and Thornaby Pool) which offer some of the wettest and wildest days out in the Tees Valley, choose from umes and wave machines, to in atables and fun oats. Very affordable, widely accessible and offers heaps of fun for all the family. Tees Active have soft play sessions that are suitable for small babies through to energetic toddlers. Play Barn at Billingham Forum and The Reef at IB Leisure are a great environment for your little ones to develop their social skills and physical strength and most importantly they will have heaps of fun hopping, jumping and leaping about as much as they like! teesactive.co.uk Easter Holidays at The Hullabaloo Available during the Easter holidays. FREE, no need to book. The dance theatre show Velveteen Rabbit will be at The Hullabaloo this Easter holidays and to celebrate, we’ll have a bunny themed trail around The Hullabaloo. We’d love children to bring in their treasured toy and take a photo to display in our treasured toy gallery.The Hullabaloo is open from 10am – 2pm, Monday – Saturday where you can enjoy coffee and cake at Café Hullabaloo and some play time too! theatrehullabaloo.org.uk Razz Tots Razz Tots is designed to improve social and motor skills and to provide a secure foundation for little one’s development. “Classes are structured on a new theme each half term, so the children can build and develop their skills” says Rebecca, Principal of Razzamataz Durham. “The class helps them to develop their speaking and listening skills, encourage positive group interaction and increase con dence, all whilst having fun!” To register your interest please email Rebecca at durham@razzamataz.co.uk. For more details visit: durham.razzamataz.co.uk Little Dragons at the Oriental Museum, Durham A group for children under 5 and their families. Booking essential. Free entry. Wednesday mornings in the Museum. Packed full of exploring the museum galleries, fun craft activities, singing, games and stories. dur.ac.uk/oriental.museum For more ideas checkout the Clubs & Classes section of the Raring2go! website What’s On for Little Ones Sat 30 March - Sat 13 April Join us for storytelling with Elena Joy-Miller on Wed 3 April (2-7 years) and The Velveteen Rabbit dance theatre show from 11-13 April (4+ years). Plus, free (no need to book) crafts, bunny themed trail around The Hullabaloo, treasured toy activities and our Zen Garden Creative Play space. Box office: 01325 405 405 • theatrehullabaloo.org.uk The Hullabaloo Borough Road Darlington DL1 1SG Easter HOLIDAYS at The Hullabaloo!
Raring2go! WHATS ON 6 raring2go.co.uk 7 Raring2go! PLACES2GO www.raby.co.uk/whats-on 29th March – 14th April Easter Holidays Egg-Stravaganza at Adventure Valley 29 March - 14 April PLUS Brand NEW Playframes opening for Easter! Don't miss all the "eggcellent" extra fun at Adventure Valley this Easter Holiday!, Visit the spectacular Easter Garden (all undercover) and meet the Easter Bunny. Hunt for eggs to earn a chocolate treat! Plus,6 huge play zones to explore, daily shows,and an,activity every 30 minutes,all included in entry!,, adventurevalley.co.uk Go Safari this Easter at Lightwater Valley 28 March - 14 April Experience roar-some adventures at Lightwater Valley. This Easter join us for a wild adventure at Lightwater Valley. With heaps of jungle fun for the whole family to enjoy, you won’t want to miss it!, Watch Ebor’s Safari Show, Jungle Face painting, do the Jungle Jam Disco, meet and greet Characters, go on the Safari Trail, encounter Jungle Animals and Meet & Eat! Plus over 40 rides and attractions tailored to the under 12s, you’ll find mega adventures around every corner at Lightwater Valley! lightwatervalley.co.uk Easter at Durham Cathedral 18 March - 31 March This spring bring the family together, with new activities from Durham Cathedral: Pick up an activity leaflet and discover puzzles, colouring and learn about Holy Week and Easter. See Durham Cathedral in LEGO®, in its new permanent home in the Monks’ Dormitory. Make a paper Peace Dove to be added to a bigger installation coming in summer. Explore the Cloisters and Chapter House famously used as a Harry Potter filming location. Plus grab a bite to eat with Kids Eat Free offer in the Undercroft Café during half term. durhamcathedral.co.uk/visit-us Easter Fun at the Newham Grange Farm! 23 March - 7 April Enjoy the new Easter trail and get a free sweet treat when completed. Enjoy Easter crafts, petting animal talks, feed the lambs, bug hotel talks and meet and greet with Daisy and Dan! All activities included in ticket price. Plus NEW imaginary play centre coming spring 2024! newhamgrangefarm.co.uk Egg-citing plans for Easter at Raby Estates 29 March -14 April Celebrate Easter at Raby Castle with an array of delightful activities suited for the whole family. Embark on the Eggcellent Eggs Trail nestled within The Plotters' Forest outdoor adventure playground, where children can search for the hidden eggs amidst the trees. The excitement continues with the Easter Trail at High Force Waterfall and Raby Castle’s Deer Park, offering a picturesque journey through nature's beauty while hunting for Easter surprises. What Easter celebration would be complete without a visit from the beloved Peter Rabbit? Join the Easter Bunny Garden Party for a hopping good time,with games, dancing, and exciting activities!,Whether you spend the Easter holidays searching for eggs, exploring the wilderness, or sharing moments with cherished characters, Easter at Raby Castle promises unforgettable memories and boundless fun for everyone to enjoy. raby.co.uk Easter Extravaganza at Whitehouse Farm Centre 29 March-14 April There will be plenty to see and do at Whitehouse Farm during the Easter Holidays. Come along and enjoy small animal handling, character sing-alongs and meet and greets, Magic show, Easter Egg hunts, bottle feeding lambs and critter and animal interactions. Full schedule can be found online. We recommend booking online during Easter to avoid disappointment. whitehousefarmcentre.co.uk Egg-citing Easter Events WIN TICKETS Lots of tickets to be won! Enter on the Raring2go! website, look out for the win tickets symbol WIN TICKETS WIN TICKETS
8 raring2go.co.uk 9 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON What's on at the Theatre Gala Durham, Durham Tortoise & the Hare - Thu 4 Apr, 2pm, 4pm & 6pm The race is on in Northern Ballet’s Tortoise & the Hare. When a cheeky Hare won’t stop boasting about how fast he can run, thoughtful Tortoise decides it is time to join him in a race. No one thinks Tortoise can win, but when Hare gets distracted by games and treats, Tortoise might just surprise us all. Recommended age: 2+ Nick Cope’s Family Show Sat 6 Apr, 11am & 2pm Nick Cope has been writing and recording his beautiful and totally unique songs for children and their families for over 10 years, he performs with his guitar and animations to sell-out crowds all over the country. He has an incredible fan base from all over the UK which has just grown immeasurably over the last year due to the phenomenal success of his CBeebies show Nick Cope’s Popcast. Recommended age: 3+ Ministry of Science Live: Science Saved The World - Fri 12 Apr, 1.30pm & 5pm 100% Educational. 200% Entertaining. 300% Explosive. 400% Fun. Join our presenters as they dive deep into the world of science and look at how science shapes the modern world we live in with a few loud bangs along the way! They’ll take an anarchic approach to science communication whilst looking at the scientists, engineers and inventors who have shaped the modern world that we live in whilst proving that each and everyone of you have the ability to change our world for the better! galadurham.co.uk The Hullabaloo, Darlington Forever Friends: Storytelling with Elena - Wed 3 Apr 10.15am & 11.15am (2-4Y with grown-ups) 1pm (3-7Y with grown-ups) Join our brilliant storyteller Elena Joy-Miller as she shares stories about treasured toys, teddies and friends that last forever. Expect giggles, games and songs as well. The Velveteen Rabbit - Thu 11 – Sat 13 April 1.30pm (4Y+) balletLORENT invites you into a magical world with their retelling of The Velveteen Rabbit suitable for children aged 4+ years, with a version especially adapted for children aged between 0-3 years and their families. In both shows, toys come to life through the magic of storytelling, music, and dance. A toy rabbit and a boy embark on an adventure about growing up and the meaning of love. At the end of each performance, children are offered an opportunity to interact with the costumed performers. theatrehullabaloo.org.uk Forum Theatre, Billingham Exciting Science - Sun 7 Apr 1:30 pm (Y4+) WARNING…......WARNING…......EXTREME FUN ALERT! With fun and fact filled experiments, watch in amazement as we recreate a volcanic eruption; turn a vacuum cleaner into a missile launcher or take aim at you with our smoke blaster! This highly interactive show is the perfect way to expand your mind in the world of science. So, stand clear and prepare for action, as this show is full of whiz, bang, pop…. and splurt! Find more info at www.whitehousefarmcentre.co.uk Whitehouse Farm Whitehousefarm_ @whitehousefarmcentre Spring at Whitehouse Farm Online Booking Recommended March 10th Mum’s Go Free!! March 29th–April 14th Easter Extravaganza May 4th–6th Princesses and Superhero Bank Holiday Weekend May 25th–27th Dinosaur and Dragon Bank Holiday Weekend May 28th–June 2nd Princesses and Superhero Half Term Week Throughout June Character Weekends June 16th Dad’s Go Free!! Ask us about Goat Yoga, Goat Walking, and Mini Keepers! Raring2Go Advert (Easter 2024).indd 2 19/02/2024 12:31
10 raring2go.co.uk 11 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON What's on at the Theatre Fireman Sam: The Great Camping Adventure - Wed 10 Apr 12:00 pm & 3:30 pm Join Fireman Sam, Ellie, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman as you become a Pontypandy Pioneer and explore the mountains. With fire engines, helicopters and brand new songs this is one adventure not to be missed! The Lion Inside - Tue 16 Apr, 1:30 pm & 4:30 pm - Web 17 Apr, 10:30 pm & 1:30 pm Fed up of being ignored and forgotten by-the-other animals, Mouse wishes he could roar like-Lion. But, as he discovers, even-the-biggest, bossiest people are scared sometimes ... and even-the smallest creatures can have-the-heart of a-lion! Based on-the-multi-million copy selling book by Rachel Bright & Jim Field, this is a heart-warming story about confidence, selfesteem, and a shy little mouse who sets out on a journey to find his roar.- forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk ARC Stockton Arts Centre, Stockton The Not So Big Bad Wolf - Fri 31 May 11:30am & 2:30pm - Sat 01 Jun 11:30am & 2:30 Meet Little Red; adventurer, heroine and worldrenowned “True Grimm” podcaster. She’s on a mission to debunk the myths around her so called nemesis, with the help of a few storybook favourites, her red invisibility cloak,-and a basket full of music, mayhem and magic tricks! Behold as your favourite tales are re-spun and woven together in an epic new-adventure from Wrongsemble. Birdie - Sat 4 May, 2.30pm (Y5+) Birdie is a beautiful show featuring three professional actors with learning disabilities, blending intricate choreography, original music, and captivating object manipulation to tell a powerful story about climate change. Homie, the main character, travels in an incredible self-contained mobile home.-They are determined-to make a difference in the face of the daunting climate crisis. arconline.co.uk Town Hall Theatre, Hartlepool Kitchen Zoo presents The Three Bears - Wed 3 Apr, 11am & 2pm. Bring your bears for an adventure in the woods, with original music, puppets and a tale you thought you knew. Every show is relaxed so join us for this friendly and fun theatre experience for children aged 6 and under and their grown-ups! Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book - Wed 15 May, 4.30pm & Thur 16 May, 11am & 4.30pm. Charlie loves reading. Especially books about pirates. But his sister hates it – it’s boring! Can Charlie convince her that reading is fun? Perhaps if she read a book about a pirate, who is reading a book about Goldilocks, who is reading a book about a knight… creativehartlepool.co.uk Middlesbrough Town Hall, Middlesbrough Fireman Sam – The Great Camping Adventure - Sun 31 Mar, 12:00 pm & 3:30pm Norman wants to go on an adventure to impress his friends, so when two famous animal explorers arrive in Pontypandy, he decides to follow them into the mountains.-But when Norman discovers a rare red squirrel, one of the explorers decides to take the glory for themselves, leaving Norman stranded in a cave.-Now it’s up to Fireman Sam to save the day and ensure everyone is safe on their camping adventure! Science Museum – The Live Stage Show Sun 26 May, 1:30pm This year join London’s world-renowned Science Museum as they bring you this brand-new stage production aimed at igniting your curiosity, fuelling your imagination, and inspiring you in new and exciting ways.- middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk Northern Ballet Presents The Tortoise and the Hare The perfect introduction to live ballet and music, your little ones will be cheering along as a playful cast of characters retell the classic tale, The Tortoise and the Hare! Hartlepool Town Hall Theatre Tuesday 16th April 2:00pm & 4:00pm (Relaxed Performance) Scan QR code to book tickets www.creativehartlepool.co.uk Ticket price Standard £8.00 Child £6.50 a brand-new musical adventure for the whole family Wrongsemble presents For ages 4+ arconline.co.uk | 01642 525199 Fri 31 May & Sat 1 Jun 11.30am & 2.30pm BSL interpreted performance 2.30pm Sat 1 Jun
12 raring2go.co.uk 13 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON Explore miles of fun-lled activities at Dalby Forest this Easter. Home to over 8,500 acres of breath-taking views, endless walking, running and cycle trails and Gruffalo adventures, a great day out awaits at Dalby Forest this Easter. You will uncover many magical things such as the Gruffalo Orienteering and Lumberjills’ Loot Treasure Trail. With vast open spaces to play and discover, keep your eye out for sculptures dotted throughout the forest. Join in the festivities and celebrate the Gruffalo's 25th birthday on an exciting new trail experience, pop into the Visitor Centre to buy a pack and get started! Perhaps bring a picnic and take in the surrounding wildlife of Staindale Lake. Or experience forestry work through the ages with the Lumberjills art exhibition in the Courtyard. The exhibition runs throughout Easter, is open daily from 9am – 4pm and free entry. Dalby Forest is also a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, where you can experience the wonder of seeing the Milky Way with the naked eye. Join our stargazing partners Astrodog at www.astrodog.co.uk to find out more and book onto an event. Visit our shop for an Easter treat and show your support for nature with some forest themed merchandise. Perhaps take your very own Gruffalo home and make story times more exciting with Gruffalo and Friends. In the Visitor Centre there are interactive family activities throughout the Easter holidays to keep those little ones entertained. Why not combine your visit with a drop-in to one of our on-site cafes for a spot of lunch? Perfect for a post-walk pick me up! Ask our friendly staff for trail maps and packs or visit our website www.forestryengland.uk/dalbyforest to plan your perfect day out. Durham University’s Visitor Attractions Spring has finally sprung and the Easter holidays are a great time to get out and about exploring Durham University’s Attractions. We have loads of events and activities planned at our venues in the heart of Durham city. Botanic Garden Don’t miss the Annual Easter Chick Hunt at the Botanic Garden this Easter, it’s a family favourite where visitors collect the spotter sheets with the names of all the chicks, then follow the trails to find them hidden amongst the trees and plants throughout the Garden. It’s a wonderful way to discover the wildlife and artworks along the way. Try our new augmented reality game We’re excited to launch a brand new, augmented reality game in the Botanic Garden this Spring, with a new app, can be downloaded Free to your phone. The game is an educational treasure hunt aimed at children aged 5 – 11 years old, where you search to find illustrated scenes from Alice in Wonderland, painted by Salvador Dali, around the Garden. The scenes are accompanied by specially composed music. Oriental Museum Visitors are invited to take inspiration from objects on display across the Oriental Museum's galleries and get creative with our FREE drop-in activities aimed at children aged 5 - 11 years. Blossom Week: ‘The trees have spoken’ Saturday 27 April, 1pm – 3pm Try our special Blossom Week gallery trail, write a blossom-inspired haiku poem make a heavenly cherry blossom collage. Durham Castle and the World Heritage Site If you’re visiting Palace Green, don’t miss the opportunity to take a tour of Durham Castle. You can also explore the Museum of Archaeology and the World Heritage Site Visitor Centre in Palace Green Library to learn about our historic heritage site through our inter-active exhibitions. durham.ac.uk/things-to-do What’s on this spring This spring bring the family together Plan your visit www.durhamcathedral.co.uk New activities to see and do this Easter: • Pick up a activity lea et and discover puzzles, colouring and learn about Holy Week and Easter • See Durham Cathedral in LEGO®, in its new permanent home in the Monks’ Dormitory • Make a paper Peace Dove to be added to a bigger installation coming in summer • Plus grab a bite to eat with Kids Eat Free offer in the Undercroft Café during half term
14 raring2go.co.uk 15 Raring2go! WHATS ON Raring2go! PLACES2GO All activities included in ticket price. Spring/summer opening times: open every day 10am-5.30pm • last entry 4pm New imagiNary play ceNtre! - Opening Spring 2024! Wykeham Way, Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough. TS8 0TG • Tel: 01642 515729 newhamgrangefarm.co.uk Newham g r ang e Farm New easter trail - FREE Easter treat when completed! easter craFts pettiNg aNimal talks FeediNg the lambs bug hOtel talks daisy aNd daN meet & greet easter fun at the Farm! Sat 23 March - Sun 7 April EXPLORE A SECRET UNDERWATER WORLD THIS SEASON! DIVING DEEP nmrn.org.uk/hartlepool Easter Chick Hunt at the Botanic Garden, Easter Sunday 31 March and Monday 1 April Discover loads of amazing things to do this spring, Easter and Half Term holidays. Visit our website to find out more about our events and activities in the heart of Durham. durham.ac.uk/things-to-do Follow us on social media to do Things Holi Festival at the Oriental Museum, Saturday 23 March Explore family-friendly exhibitions at the Museum of Archaeology Enjoy a family-friendly tour of Durham Castle MW/02/24/387 World Heritage Day on Palace Green, Wednesday 10 April @DUThingsToDo
16 raring2go.co.uk 17 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON Picnic in the Park: Pack a delicious picnic and head to a nearby park. Enjoy the fresh spring air, play some outdoor games like frisbee or badminton, and relax on a blanket surrounded by nature. Bike Ride Adventure: Explore local bike trails or ride through your neighbourhood together. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the budding flowers and greenery while getting some exercise as a family. DIY Bird Feeders: Make simple bird feeders using pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseed. Hang them in your back garden or a nearby park, and watch as birds come to enjoy the tasty treats. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items to find in nature, such as specific flowers, leaves, or even certain types of insects. Go on a scavenger hunt as a family and see who can find everything on the list first. Plant a Family Garden: Start a small garden together with flowers, herbs or vegetables. It's a great way to teach children about nature and responsibility while enjoying the process of watching plants blossom and grow. Pavement Chalk Art: Head to your driveway or a local park with colourful pavement chalk. Encourage creativity and create vibrant spring-themed artwork on the pavement. Make sure you take a selfie before a spring rain shower washes your creation away! Fly a Kite: Take advantage of the spring winds and fly a kite in an open field. It's a simple yet enjoyable activity for the whole family. It’s still one of those things that makes us stare in wonder! Go on a Nature Walk: Take a leisurely stroll through a nature reserve or on a hiking trail. Bring a guidebook to identify different plants and animals and take the time to appreciate the beauty of the changing season. Spring is such a lovely time to be outdoors so make the most of it! Outdoor Movie Night: Set up a makeshift outdoor cinema in your back garden. Use a projector and a white sheet, and enjoy a family movie night under the stars. Don't forget the popcorn! Outdoor Yoga or Exercise Session: Find a peaceful spot in a park or your back garden and practice yoga as a family. Alternatively, engage in a fun and energetic outdoor exercise session, such as a family friendly workout or a game of ultimate frisbee. 10 fun things to do as a family this Spring
18 raring2go.co.uk 19 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON Over 30,000 highly targeted copies delivered! Call 07787 584878 or email teesdurham@raring2go.co.uk now! Stand Out, Grab Attention and Boost Sales! northcountyshow.co.uk bishopaucklandfoodfestival.co.uk bishfoodfest A Durham County Council Event Supported by TASTY FOOD & DRINK TRADERS CELEB CHEF COOKERY THEATRE COOKERY WORKSHOPS FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AND MORE JOIN US FOR A FOODIE WEEKEND with lots of Family Fun BAFF Raring to Go Spring magazine 2024.indd 1 16/02/2024 09:12 Book your table at the new-look PizzaExpress Durham today. pizzaexpress.com 0191 383 2661 PIZZA WITH PIZZAZZ Make Every Saturday A Family Film Club Day 10.15AM | Every Saturday arconline.co.uk 01642 525199 Specially chosen films Free crafts after the film
20 raring2go.co.uk 21 Raring2go! LEARN Raring2go! PUZZLES WORDSEARCH ANSWERS: Tulip, Daffodilm Snowdrop, Bluebell, Rose WORDSEARCH Can you find 5 flowers: Answers at the bottom of the page. No cheating! Spot the difference Raring2go Puzzle page Spring 2024 PA02.indd 1 15/02/2024 16:42 Ensuring the visual health of your children is a responsibility that should not be overlooked. Many parents spend a great deal of time wondering when is it appropriate to schedule their child's first eye test. The answer? Sooner than you might think. Experts have recommended for some time that a child's first comprehensive eye test should occur between the ages of 6 months and 1 year. This initial examination is crucial for identifying any potential issues early on as it allows opticians to properly assess the basic functionality of a child's eyes. It will be able to detect common issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. Being able to intervene early in such cases is important as it can significantly impact a child's development, including their ability to learn and interact with the world around them. Follow up eye tests should then be scheduled at around age 3 and again before starting at school. The pre-school years are a critical time for visual development, and identifying issues at this stage can prevent learning difficulties later on. Regular eye tests become even more important as a child progresses through school, given the increasing demands on their visual abilities for reading, writing, and of course computer / screen use. It's important to note that even if a child does not display any obvious signs of diffculty with their vision, regular eye tests are still essential. Children may not always be abel or willing to vocalise issues with their eye sight as they might assume everyone sees the way they do. By incorporating a good eye health regime, which includes regular eye tests, into a child's regular healthcare, parents can ensure that any potential problems are quickly identified and swiftly dealt with. Beyond school age, eye tests should continue to be a regular part of a young person’s healthcare regime. During the teenage years especially, changes in vision can happen and these can affect academic performance and overall well-being. Your optician may adjust the frequency and regularity of eye tests at this stage in a young persons life. In closing, it’s worth acknowledging that the old adage that says ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ is pretty accurate when it comes to a child's vision. Schedule that first eye test early, and make regular eye check-ups a priority throughout your child's formative years. It will be a small investment in their health that will probably yield a lifetime of benefits for them. Optical Illusion: Knowing when to take your child to see as Optician
22 raring2go.co.uk 23 Raring2go! Raring2go! LEARN In a world where screens often take centre stage in our children's lives, the call for promoting physical activity has never been more critical. As parents, we hold the key to unlocking a healthier, more vibrant future for our kids. Let's delve into why fostering a culture of movement is crucial and explore practical ways to make physical activity an integral part of our children's daily lives. Physical activity is not just about exercise; it's a cornerstone of healthy development. Regular movement can act to enhance cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and bones, and contributes to better mental well-being. Beyond the physical benefits, active play also builds crucial social skills, such as teamwork as well as a genuine feeling of personal accomplishment. As parents we have the opportunity to be the architects of an environment that really encourages our children to move. Start by incorporating family activities that revolve around physical play – be it a weekend bike ride, a nature hike or a simple game of tag in the back garden. These shared experiences not only promote physical health but also strengthen family bonds. Consider the power of play in everyday life. Encourage unstructured playtime, allowing your children the freedom to explore and invent games on their own. Whether it's dancing to their favorite tunes, building forts, or engaging in imaginative play, these activities not only promote physical fitness but also ignite creativity. Limit screen time to make room for active pursuits. The sedentary nature of excessive screen use has been linked to various health concerns. Establish screen-time boundaries and replace some of that time with activities that get your children moving. The benefits extend beyond physical health, positively impacting academic performance and emotional well-being. Be a role model for an truly active lifestyle. Children are more likely to adopt healthy habits when they see their parents making physical activity a priority. Make exercise a family affair, showing them that staying active is not a chore but a joyful part of daily life. By embracing and promoting physical activity in our children's lives, we sow the seeds for a healthier, more resilient generation. Let's encourage them to play, move, and thrive, cultivating habits that will serve them well throughout their lives. Together, as parents, we can build a future where our children's vitality knows no bounds. Play, Move, Thrive: Creating a Culture of Physical Activity in Our Children Create memories this Spring Find your next day out at Dalby Forest forestryengland.uk/ Plan your visit dalby-forest Find us on social media G e
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26 raring2go.co.uk 27 Raring2go! FAMILY FUN Raring2go! FAMILY FUN Selecting age-appropriate books for our children is a crucial part of developing their love for reading whilst supporting them in this early cognitive and emotional development. Tailoring this literature to a child’s age makes sure that the content is engaging, easily understandable and of course relevant to their evolving interests and abilities. In the early stages of childhood, board books full of colourful illustrations and simple storylines are ideal for igniting visual and auditory stimulation. As children progress to the preschool and early years foundation, picture books with more complex storylines can capture their expanding attention spans and spark their imaginations. Look for themes that resonate with their daily experiences, so they can connect the literature they read to their own lives. For emerging readers, early chapter books with large fonts and slightly shorter sentences can help with independent reading. Consider stories with relatable characters and straightforward plots that align with the child’s growing reading skills. As they get older and their reading proficiency increases, introduce more challenging texts that encourage critical thinking and vocabulary expansion. When choosing age-appropriate books, it is important to bear in mind your child’s emotional readiness. Themes, stories and characters should be easily relatable and age-sensitive to avoid overwhelming or confusing the child. Also consider diverse perspectives and cultural representation in literature as this can help to broaden a child’s worldview and encourage a sense of empathy. A child’s enthusiasm for reading is often influenced driven by the balance between challenge and accessibility. Getting this balance right is the key. You can regularly reassess their preferences and adjust book choices accordingly to ensure that reading remains an enjoyable, enriching experience throughout this phase of their developmental journey. By carefully selecting and providing a diverse range of age-appropriate books, parents and caregivers can lay the foundation for a lifelong love of reading. Choosing Age Appropriate Books for Children Reading Eggs is the perfect way to teach your child to read. Designed by experienced educators, children follow structured, one-on-one lessons that teach phonics, sight words and reading skills in a fun way. In fact, 91% of parents see an improvement in just a few weeks! 20 million users & 16,000 schools worldwide Proven to boost reading & math skills in just 15 minutes/day! FREE 30-DAY TRIAL 1.1 million lessons every week ✔ Used in over 193 countries readingeggs.co.uk/spring Scan QR code for 30-Day FREE trial *This 30-day free trial offer allows you to add up to 4 children. You will be charged at the end of the trial period unless you cancel before this time. You can cancel any time by selecting the ‘Cancel Subscription’ option located on the ‘Manage My Subscription’ page in your family dashboard. Offer is valid for new UK customers only, until 31st July 2024. in 30 Days Learn to Read FREE!
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