LOOK OUT FOR DISCOUNTS/OFFERS WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO GO P4 raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2023/24 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD KINGSTON AND MERTON FESTIVE FAMILY FUN / SANTA P14
Ages 6-12 Tickets from £10* on ALL performances
Welcome to the Winter edition! Raring2go! Welcome to the Winter Edition! Whether you wish it could be Christmas every day or are feeling a bit bah humbug, I hope we’ve included everything you need to keep everyone entertained this Winter. Santa and his elves are already making final preparations for his busy travels on Christmas Eve. In this edition, you’ll find out where to meet Santa, together with lots of ideas for family days out. Make sure you remember to use any discounts offered. We are very lucky to have such fabulous local attractions on our doorstep, so please make sure you mention that you’ve seen them in Raring2go! when visiting. The Raring2go! magazine is also supported with our website, so have a look! It’s full of family-friendly resources and information, including recipes, activities for inside and out, places to go, and more. And if you sign up as a member, not only can you enter our local and national competitions and access our Raring2go! discounts and vouchers, you can subscribe to receive our monthly newsletter to hear the latest news. Make sure you follow us through our social media channels too. Wishing you all a very wonderful winter! Kirsten Hackman xx Get in Touch: 07858 751776 kingstonandmerton@raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go 4 raring2go.co.uk not yOur average sofT pLaY! 328-330 hook road chessington kt91nu WWW.LITTLEPEEPSSOFTPLAY.COM dUCKPIN bOWLING. mULTIBALL gAMING SCREENS. Jungle soft play. pARTY VENUE. exciting fun for children of all ages.
7 Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go BOOK ONLINE December 2023 The ma ic of Christmas comes to Godstone Farm this holiday season, meet Father Christmas and his elves and experience the wonder of winter on the farm! FATHER CHRISTMAS IS COMING TO GODSTONE FARM! for ages 3+ The Gruffalo’s Child © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2004 – Macmillan Children’s Books Fri 1 Dec 2023 – Sun 7 Jan 2024 THE PERFECT FESTIVE TREAT BOOK NOW 0330 333 4811 | Garrick Theatre, Charing Cross Road, West End BOOK HERE Tickets from £10 ADAPTED FROM JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER’S AWARD-WINNING PICTURE BOOK H H H H H ‘Everything good children’s theatre should be’ The List H H H H H ‘Warm, witty and beautifully made’ LondonTheatre1
Raring2make! FUN IDEAS FOR MAKING THINGS TOGETHER ‘Cakes are healthy too, you just eat a small slice’ Mary Berry www.raring2go.co.uk Christmas Pudding Recipe Ingredients •225g/8oz golden caster sugar •225g/8oz vegetarian suet • 120g/4oz plain flour •340g/12oz sultanas • 340g/12oz raisins •225g/8oz currants • 60g/2oz flaked almonds •120g/4oz chopped candied peel •120g/4oz fresh white breadcrumbs •Zest of 1 lemon • 1 level tsp ground cinnamon •5 eggs beaten • 1 level tsp mixed spice •1 level tsp freshly grated nutmeg •Pinch of salt • 150ml/5fl oz brandy or rum Method Mix together all the dry ingredients. Stir in the eggs and brandy and mix well. Turn the mix into 4x1 pint or 2x2 pint lightly-greased pudding basins. Put a circle of baking parchment and foil over the top of each basin and tie securely with string. Make a string handle from one side of the basin to the other so it's easier to pick the basin out of the pan after cooking. Put the basins in a large steamer of boiling water and cover with a lid. Boil for 5-6 hours, topping the boiling water up from time to time if necessary. If you don't have a steamer, put the basins in a large pan on inverted saucers on the base. Pour in boiling water to come a third of the way up the sides of the pudding bowls. Cover and steam as before. Cool. Change the baking parchment and foil covers for fresh ones and tie up as before. Store in a cool cupboard until Christmas Day. To serve the pudding on Christmas Day, steam for 2 hours and serve with brandy butter, rum sauce, cream or home-made custard. For more great recipe ideas please visit our website: www.raring2go.co.uk 8 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Christmas Pudding Recipe
10 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go SCAN TO BOOK 1 - 24 DEC 2023 FOR AGES 3+ bac.org.uk 020 7223 2223 A BATTERSEA ARTS CENTRE AND WILD RUMPUS PROD Meet and greet Father Christmas at Garsons from 25th November to 24th December 2023 Tickets on sale now. Scan or visit garsons.co.uk Garsons,Winterdown Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 8LS
11 Visit the Surrey Resort on selected dates between Saturday November 25 to Sunday December 31, for the festive event of the season. Winter’s Tail is back at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, with Father Christmas in his grotto, select theme park rides and animals to meet in the zoo all included in the ticket price - plus much more festive family fun to enjoy with your nearest and deer-est including NEW attraction, Enchanted Hollow at Christmas. Enchanted Hollow at Christmas NEW for 2023, help the whimsical and charming animal residents of Enchanted Hollow count down to the BIG day and wish them all a “Merry Christmas” as you wander through the delightful underground town bedecked in all its festive finery. Meet Father Christmas Join friendly Elves and adventure through a snowy woodland to meet the main man himself in his grotto, Father Christmas. Children can then head to his top-secret toy workshop to receive an early Christmas present. Festive entertainment plus much more! Oh no it isn’t… oh yes it is! Chessington’s WILD Christmas panto also makes a return, while traditional carollers fill the Resort with song. For the purrr-fect Christmas, meet some of Chessington’s 1,000 animals, including resident reindeer. Plus, as a festive treat, take a wintery ride on NEW for 2023, Mandrill Mayhem, the World’s ONLY rollercoaster based on the Jumanji film franchise. Tickets for Winter’s Tail are available NOW at Chessington.com from £35pp. Looking for a WILD day out in the NEW YEAR? Head on a family trip to Chessington’s Zootastic Weekends… With daily feeds and talks from the Zookeepers, learn more about the array of animals at the Resort - from Amur tigers to Rothschild’s giraffe and Humboldt penguins to Asian short-clawed otters. WINTER’S TAIL RETURNS THIS CHRISTMAS TO CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES RESORT Father Christmas’ Grotto and Toy Workshop are not available post-Christmas between Wednesday December 27 and Sunday December, 31 2023. You can find out more information and book your next WILD adventure or short break by visiting chessington.com.
VISIT WEYBRIDGE, SURREY AN INCREDIBLE DAY OUT SCAN ME for moreinfo BOOK ONLINE TO SAVE VIA BROOKLANDSMUSEUM.COM FREE FOR MEMBERS
13 Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go Cadogan Hall, Chelsea, Sunday 17th December 2023 at 2.00 and 5.00 Tickets: £34, £32, £28, £18 from the Cadogan Hall Box Office Tel: 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com All orders subject to a transaction fee unless made in person © Snowman Enterprises Limited “The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs is published by Puffin. Image © Snowman Enterprises Ltd www.thesnowman.com “You would be hard pushed to find a more magical Christmas experience” The Times HOWARD BLAKE The Snowman Projected onto a large screen with a live orchestral accompaniment CONDUCTOR: PHILIP MACKENZIE SOPRANO: ALICE MACKENZIE pushed to find a more magical Christmas experience" The Times MOZART SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Meet Santa in his magical grotto at Squire’s Shepperton, TW17 8SG From Sat 25 Nov – Sun 24 Dec* *Selected days £8 per child, includes wrapped gift. £1 from every child ticket will be donated to charity. My Christmas Orchestral Adventure Sun 10 Dec, 12:30pm and 4:30pm Embark on a magical journey through classical music with Albert’s Orchestra Calling Santa's little helpers!
14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? November Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? Saturday 11th Nov – Sunday 21st Jan Polka Theatre The Snow Queen Gerda is on the magical quest of a lifetime. Her best friend Kai has disappeared with the mysterious Snow Queen, and if Gerda doesn’t rescue him soon, he’ll be trapped in an endless winter forever. Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale is brought to life with songs, spectacular storytelling and a flurry of mythical magic. Enter a wintry wonderland of imagination for the whole family at Polka this Christmas. polkatheatre.com Thursday 16th Nov - Tuesday 2nd Jan Festive Fun in Kingston upon Thames A range of family activities and festive entertainment, including Christmas lights, Christmas Market, and a ski-themed Alpine Village, with four curling lanes perfect for competing with friends and family over a festive drink. Younger children will adore the train ride in Memorial Square and the vintage carousel – it’s the ideal festive day out for the whole family. For more information and to book curling and festive events, visit kingstonuponthames.info/christmas. Thursday 16th Nov - Tuesday 2nd Jan Windsor Great Park Illuminated Ready, Set, Dazzle! Enjoy a magical evening as this very special light trail returns to light up the festive season, more dazzling than ever with a generous sprinkling of new installations and the return of some firm favourites. windsorilluminated.com/ Friday 17th November – Sunday 7th Jan Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink Spectacular skating in Henry VIII’s historic home. Bundle up in warm layers and immerse yourself in the magnificent views of this beautiful Tudor palace while gracefully gliding around our stunning outdoor rink. hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk Saturday 18th Nov – Sunday 24th Dec Chessington Garden Centre Santa’s Christmas Wonderland To begin the festive experience, you will start by watching a short, animated film to get you into the Christmas spirit, and from here your journey will begin. Each room features a different theme to take you through an adventure of magic and wonder. You’ll be lucky enough to privately visit Father Christmas in his own cosy cabin, where himself and his very own group of elves will be checking your name twice on the gift list. www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk/ Saturday 18th Nov – Saturday 30th Dec Peacock Theatre The Snowman The winter family favourite is the timeless tale of a boy and a snowman who comes to life. Back for it’s 26th year, The Snowman is a magical stage adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Raymond Briggs and the film directed by Dianne Jackson. peacocktheatre.com/ Saturday 18th Nov – Monday 1st Jan Hever Castle and Gardens Christmas at Hever Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit at Hever and enjoy a seasonal experience to remember. Wrap up warm and enjoy a walk under the stars at the Magical Christmas Lights experience. Witness the enchantment of the Castle, gardens and lake festooned with fabulous colours and twinkling lights, capturing the spirit of Christmas. hevercastle.co.uk Saturday 18th Nov – Sunday 7th January Painshill Alice in Wonderland Trail Help the white rabbit find Alice at Painshill’s Alice in Wonderland Trail this winter. Follow the trail around the landscape and meet some familiar characters along the way. painshill.co.uk
Raring2go! Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? 15 December Sat 25th Nov – Sunday 31st December Chessington World of Adventures Winter’s Tail Make magical memories this Christmas at Winter’s Tail, enjoying festive family fun with your nearest and DEERest at Chessington. With the help of our jolly elves and reindeer, meet Father Christmas in his log fire grotto and revel in all the Christmas cheer that a traditional panto and carollers offer. Plus, NEW for 2023, visit the charming residents of Enchanted Hollow as they prepare for a magical Christmas. www.chessington.com/ Sat 25th Nov - Tuesday 2nd January Claremont Landscape Garden The Snow Queen family trail This winter at Claremont, we’ve brought to life, Hans Christian Anderson’s fairy-tale, The Snow Queen. In this classic story of good versus evil, Kai has been kidnapped by the Snow Queen and Gerda, his friend embarks on an adventure to save him. Come and join Gerda on this extra special trail around the lake at Claremont on her quest to rescue Kai from the Snow Queen’s palace. The garden will be transformed into the magical outdoor world with installations reflecting key scenes from the story with activities to try along the way. nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont Saturday 25th Nov - Sunday 7th January Polesen Lacey A Fairytale Christmas Festive activities include a Christmas a trail, that takes you through many familiar fairy tales, a traditional gallopers carousel, and for the first time ever, Father Christmas is setting up camp in Polesden Lacey House. For details and to book, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey/ Friday 1st – Sunday 24th December Battersea Arts Centre Solstice Solstice is a brand-new immersive trail through the seasons, with magical creatures and festive fun for all the family. Under the light of the moon, you will move through a winter wonderland where animals are hibernating and people are tucked away in their cosy houses. This enchanting new light-trail marks the first collaboration between BAC and Wild Rumpus, an award-winning immersive events company that focus on nature connectedness, collective wonder and the power of play. bac.org.uk/whats-on/solstice/ Saturday 18th Nov – Sunday 14th Jan Polka Theatre The Night Before Christmas Amber is six and loves reindeer! It’s Christmas Eve but Grandad is feeling tired and Amber’s favourite snow-globe gets broken. Then her world is turned topsy turvy by a surprise visitor and Amber begins an adventure she will never forget. All performances before December 24 are now sold out. Tickets are still available for performances from Wednesday 27 December - Sunday 14 January. polkatheatre.com Friday 24th Nov – Tuesday 2nd January Glow at RHS Garden Wisley Let it Glow! Enjoy an unmissable after-dark spectacle of lights this festive season. See the garden in breathtaking beauty as amazing illuminations light your way on a wonder-filled journey. rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley Sat 25th Nov – Sunday 24th December Hobbledown Heath /Hobbledown Epsom Santa’s Grotto A Christmas encounter to remember! Step into Santa’s magical grotto - he’s heard so much about you, and has been waiting all year to meet you... Santa’s Secret Village includes treat trails, twinkling lights, reindeer, and more... www.hobbledown.com Sat 25th Nov – Sunday 24th December Garsons Esher Meet Father Christmas Look who’s coming to town! Father Christmas and his trusty elves are visiting! Enter a magical grotto where you’ll meet Father Christmas, who is taking time out of his busy schedule to greet our special younger customers and hand out presents. There will also be an opportunity for additional family photo gifts. Book online: bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/GarsonsEsher Sat 25th Nov – Sunday 24th December Godstone Farm Christmas on the Farm Meet Father Christmas and his elves and experience the wonder of winter on the farm! A Father Christmas visit includes the choice of a brilliant toy from his charming toy shop, an interactive activity plus entry to the farm all day including our indoor playbarn. godstonefarm.co.uk
16 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Festive Family Fun / Where’s Santa? Friday 1st December – Sun 7th January Garrick Theatre The Gruffalo’s Child One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warnings about the Big Bad Mouse and tiptoes out into the deep dark wood. She follows snowy tracks and encounters mysterious creatures – but the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist… does he? Let your imagination run wild with songs, laughs and scary fun for everyone aged 3 to 103 in this enchanting adaptation by Tall Stories of the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. thegarricktheatre.co.uk/ Saturday 2nd – Sunday 24th December Royal Albert Hall Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall The Royal Albert Hall has been the home of Christmas in London for 150 years. This year’s programme is full of heart-warming live events to be enjoyed with your loved ones. There’s something for everyone, from our Christmas carols to traditional concerts, drag, jazz, gospel and so much more... www.royalalberthall.com Friday 8th – Sunday 10th December Guildford Spectrum Alice in Wonderland on Ice Follow Alice down the rabbit hole and join her on an enchanted adventure with the unique characters of Wonderland. guildfordspectrum.co.uk Friday 8th December – Sunday 7th Jan New Wimbledon Theatre Cinderella You shall go to the ball with the spectacular family pantomime Cinderella. Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her very wicked sisters and meets her Prince Charming. The clock is ticking, so book your tickets today! Joining the fab-u-lous Wicked Stepmother Craig Revel Horwood will be Wimbledon fan-favourite, comedian and magician extraordinaire Pete Firman as Buttons, returning for his third Wimbledon panto… www.atgtickets.com/ shows/cinderella/new-wimbledon-theatre/ Friday 8th December – Sunday 7th Jan Shakespeare’s Globe Hansel and Gretel A beautifully epic new version of The Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale, Hansel and Gretel, by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, transforms the Globe Theatre this winter. The perfect winter treat for everyone aged 5+ www.shakespearesglobe.com/ Sat 9th December – Sunday 7th January Richmond Theatre Dick Whittington Join Dick Whittington as he seeks fame, fortune, and happiness journeying to become Lord Mayor. Can he outwit the evil rodent King Rat and free the city from his team of revolting rodents? Find out in the ultimate magical pantomime adventure! Writer, actor, comedian, radio and television presenter Paul Merton will be stepping out from behind the iconic Have I Got News For You desk as the Panto Dame’s role of Sarah the Cook! www.atgtickets.com/shows/ dick-whittington/richmond-theatre/ Wednesday 13th - Sunday 24th Dec Cecil Hepworth Playhouse Ellie & Starlight’s Christmas Adventure Ellie and her best Friend Starlight the Polar Bear are heading for the North Pole to find Father Christmas in this perfect family show to get you into the Christmas spirit. www.ellieandstarlight.co.uk Sunday 17th December: 2pm and 5pm Mozart Symphony Orchestra The Snowman (at Cadogan Hall) The Mozart Symphony Orchestra returns to Cadogan Hall, for which the film is shown on the big screen with a live symphony orchestra providing the soundtrack. 14-year-old Alice Mackenzie sings the aria made so famous by Aled Jones: ‘Walking in the Air’. Plus, The Gruffalo (for narrator and orchestra) returns, alongside its sequel, The Gruffalo’s Child, with each character represented by a different instrument of the orchestra. A perfect treat for all the family. cadoganhall.com/ Monday 18th – Sunday 24th December Hobbledown Heath /Hobbledown Epsom Breakfast with Santa Take a seat at the table for a very special breakfast... one with the Hobbledown Elves, and Santa Claus himself! www.hobbledown.com Monday 18th Dec – Sat 6th January Orange Tree Theatre Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol When Bob Cratchit takes over the company from his old boss Ebenezer Scrooge, he discovers it’s tough at the top. In fact, he works so hard that this year he might cancel Christmas. So now it’s up to Tiny Tim to remind his father of the story of Scrooge and the true meaning of Christmas. Charles Dickens’ muchloved Christmas story is reinvented for families with children aged five to ten. orangetreetheatre.co.uk/
Ages 2-6 Pre-Christmas performances now SOLD OUT Book now to avoid disappointment! *A £2.50 transaction fee applies to telephone and online bookings. Tickets from £16* Derngate, Northampton co-production Polka Theatre Royal & A and
Make a beanie hat with Red Ted Art Materials needed to finger knit your beanie: Super Chunky Wool (works best to make the beanie nice and chunky), Your fingers, and a pair of scissors Step 1 : How to finger knit Hold the wool comfortably with your thumb. Wrap the wool behind your index finger and in front of your middle finger, then behind your wedding finger and around your pinky. Then bring the wool in front of your wedding finger, behind your middle finger and around your index finger. You need to do it again. Wrap the wool in front of your middle finger, behind your index finger, and around your pinky. Continue bringing the wool in front of your wedding finger, behind your middle finger and then around your index finger, so that you will have two loops on each finger. Now you need to pull the bottom loop up and over the top loop. Do this with each finger in turn, so that you are left with one loop on each finger. Then start again, starting in front of your middle finger, making the loops, and pulling the wool over. Keep repeating these steps until you have a long enough piece that will fit around your head. Step 2 : How to connect strands of your beanie hat Now we are going to connect the two ends together. Run your thumb through the ridge on the back. The ridge is the back and the reverse side is the front. Face the ridged side in towards the centre, making sure you don’t twist it. Connect the two together by hooking your little finger first into the bottom loop, and then into the top loop of the end of the knitted piece. You will have three loops on your little finger. Then start knitting again as normal, wrapping the wool around your fingers. When you start to pull loops off your finger, just one thing... On your pinky finger, pull each loop up and over individually, starting from the bottom, leaving one loop on each finger again. Leaving one loop. Give it a tighten by pulling on the wool. Step 3 : How to add a row to your DIY finger knitted beanie hat This time we only need to hook into one loop on the knitted piece. Find your next loop and hook your little finger into it. Then knit another row. Once again, on the little finger pull each loop off individually. Pull to tighten. Find your next loop and hook into it. Knit another row across. Keep knitting until the hat covers your head. Remember to keep trying on the hat for measurements. Step 4 : How to decrease Next stage is to make the top of your hat. We need to start decreasing. This time you need to pick up two loops from the knitted piece, so you have three loops on your little finger. Then start to knit another row. Keep repeating these steps until the top of your hat is almost closed. Leaving a small gap. Step 5 : How to decrease and finish your beanie Start casting off your fingers. Pull the first loop off and onto your next finger. And pull the bottom loop up and over the top. Do this on all your fingers, until you have one left. Then pull the wool through the last loop. Get scissors and cut the loop. To close off the top, I laced through each loop across the top keeping it nice and tight, closing the top off completely. Make sure you keep pulling tight. You then just need to tie a knot in the wool to finish. If you’d like to see a video, here’s the full tutorial here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=p4IoOa_SMUE Many thanks to RedTedArt for sharing this fabulous Beanie creative. If you’d like to see so much more on crafting, visit redtedart.com 18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Finger Knit a Beanie Hat
CHRISTMAS FAMILY SHOW 18 December 2023 – 6 January 2024 Mon – Sat 11am Mon, Wed, Fri 2.30pm Relaxed & Distanced Performance Wed 3 Jan 2.30pm Photo © Rebecca Need-Menear orangetreetheatre.co.uk 020 8940 3633 1 Clarence Street, Richmond TW9 2SA 1 minute from Richmond Station – District Line/Overground/ South Western Railway 16 min Waterloo by CHARLES DICKENS adapted & directed by BECCA CHADDER
1. Voxblock boosts literacy skillsListening to stories helps develop a child's vocabulary, comprehension, and language skills. 2. Voxblock is ready-to-play as soon as it's unwrappedFree from Wifi and with no set-up - just press play! 3. Voxblock has hundreds of audiobooks Introduce children to a world of stories through a huge audiobook library. 4. Voxblock develops independence The player is easy-to-use and with no need for grown-ups, children can take control. 5. Voxblock is a gift that keeps giving Children enjoy Voxblock for years, not hours. This Christmas unwrap a Voxblock Starter Pack, it includes a Voxblock player, 3 audiobooks, and a protective bumper for £59.99. Buy at voxblock.co.uk reasons Voxblock makes the perfect Christmas gift Meet Voxblock: the easy-to-use screen-free audiobook player for children 3-12. Designed by parents, it empowers children to listen to audio stories independently. starter pack 99 £5 p £59. b aud the 00% connectivity free ong battery life build your child’s literacy as it's unwrapped ready-to-play as soon diobook player e screen-free voxblock.co.uk 1 lo a r Raring2go! Voxblock 20 raring2go.co.uk
22 raring2go.co.uk Set Clear Goals: Define your fitness objectives, whether it's losing weight, building muscle, improving endurance, or just staying active. Having specific goals will keep you motivated. Create a Workout Routine: Develop a structured exercise plan that includes a mix of cardiovascular, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Consistency is key, so aim for at least 3-5 days of exercise per week. Find an Accountability Partner: Team up with a friend or family member who shares your fitness goals. Having someone to exercise with and hold you accountable can make a big difference. Try New Activities: Make fitness fun by exploring different activities like hiking, dancing, swimming, or martial arts. Experimenting with new workouts can keep things exciting. Join a Gym or Fitness Class: If you prefer a structured environment, consider signing up for a gym membership or fitness classes like yoga, spinning, or HIIT. Use Technology: Download fitness apps or invest in wearable fitness trackers to monitor your progress, set reminders, and stay motivated. Prioritise Nutrition: A healthy diet is crucial for achieving your fitness goals. Focus on balanced meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Get Adequate Rest: Rest and recovery are essential for muscle growth and overall well-being. Ensure you're getting enough quality sleep each night. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for maintaining energy levels and supporting your workouts. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Track Your Progress: Keep a fitness diary or use a fitness app to track your workouts, nutrition, and how you're feeling. Celebrate your achievements along the way to stay motivated. Remember that getting fit is a personal journey, and it's important to be patient with yourself, and not compare yourself to others. Start small, gradually increase the intensity of your workouts, and stay consistent. Consistency is key to long-term success in achieving and maintaining your fitness goals. Get Fit for 2024 Getting fit for the New Year is a great goal, and there are many ways to achieve it. Here are 10 ideas to help you get started on your fitness journey: Raring2go! Get Fit for 2024
Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no. XR43398. SECURE YOUR CHILD’S PLACE Would you like your child to be safe around water? With Better Swim School, you can celebrate your child being a confident and happy swimmer. Dive in at: Canons Leisure Centre Morden Leisure Centre Wimbledon Leisure Centre & Spa Discover more at better.org.uk/merton STRONGER, SAFER SWIMMERS IN MERTON
Family Cook-Off Night: Host a weekly or monthly family cook-off night where each member takes turns selecting a theme or cuisine. Everyone can work together to plan, shop for ingredients, and then prepare their chosen dishes. This not only promotes teamwork but also allows everyone to explore different culinary traditions. Outdoor Adventure Challenges: Plan a series of outdoor adventures or challenges like hiking to a scenic spot, geocaching, or orienteering. Create a "Family Adventure Passport" to track completed challenges and encourage friendly competition. This activity promotes physical activity and bonding in nature. Family Book Club: Start a family book club where you pick a book to read together and then have regular discussions about it. Choose a diverse range of genres and themes to cater to different interests within the family. You can even create a mini-library at home to keep all your family book club selections. DIY Home Improvement Projects: Undertake DIY home improvement or decoration projects as a family. Decide on a room or area to renovate or redecorate and involve each family member in the planning and execution. It's a pr oductive way to improve your living space while learning new skills together. Language Learning Night: Dedicate one evening a week to learning a new language as a family.You can use languagelearning apps, online resources or enrol in a course together. This not only enhances communication skills but also opens doors to exploring different cultures and travel opportunities in the future. Remember that the key to introducing something new for the family is to ensure that it's engaging, inclusive, and adaptable to everyone's interests and abilities. These activities can help strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories. Something New for You and the family… Things can get very samey once the festive season is over, so we have put together a few creative ideas to introduce something new for your family to do together: 24 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Something New for 2024
26 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Path to Paris - Get Active!
AM SPORTS ACADEMY HOLIDAY CAMPS WIMBLEDON PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL SW19 8EJ (WPPS) FLOREAT WANDSWORTH SW18 4EQ (FW) TO VIEW OUR BOOKING OPTIONS, PRICES, SPORTS MAP AND MORE, PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE WE ARE OFSTED REGISTERED AND ACCEPT CHILD CARE VOUCHERS AND TAX FREE CHILDCARE PAYMENTS. info@amsportsacademy.co.uk amsportsacademy.co.uk AM Sports Academy 2024 DATES: MONDAY 8th JANUARY (WPPS ONLY) w/c MONDAY 12th – FRIDAY 16th FEBRUARY (WPPS, FW) w/c TUESDAY 2nd – FRIDAY 5th APRIL (WPPS, FW) w/c MONDAY 8th – FRIDAY 12th APRIL (WPPS, FW) PLEASE VIST OUR WEBSITE TO READ OUR OFSTED REPORT FROM AUGUST 2022 AM SPORTS ACADEMY I NSPI RE · DEVELOP · ACHI EVE
easter summer winter FREE Holiday activities and food For eligible children aged 4 to 16 years Kingston and Richmond boroughs E: fuel@achievingforchildren.org.uk #krfuel23
29 Raring2go! Clubs/Classes & Holiday Camps BE PART OF THE PARENTS’ GO-TO GUIDE! Now taking early bird bookings for the Spring and Summer 2024 editions. Book in to the magazine today, and we can get your details online straight away! kingstonandmerton@raring2go.co.uk 10 2013-2023 YEARS ON CLUB Join the fun! LTB: FUN FOR EVERYONE! For holiday camps, what we offer & to book Visit www.lovetheball.com We are 10!
Avoiding Christmas Crises for your Pets CHRISTMASis a happy time, but some dangers may arise causing potential problems for your pets. Here are some safety tips to ensure you can all enjoy a stress free (ish) Christmas! • CHOCOLATE– Not a myth, and fortunately much more recognised these days, chocolate contains Theobromine, which at best can make your dog very sick, and at worst can unfortunately kill them. The higher the cocoa content or the smaller the dog, the higher the risk, and any dog that eats chocolate MUST be taken to a vet as soon as possible. • OTHER TOXIC ITEMS– Onions, garlic, grapes and raisins (and mistletoe and poinsettias) are all around at Christmas, and are toxic to pets; do not feed them to your pets, even in small quantities, and seek veterinary advice if they get hold of them. • TURKEY BONES – Take care when storing and disposing of turkey carcasses and other bones, as if eaten they can cause severe damage to teeth and gums, or even worse to the internal digestive tract. • TINSEL – Tinsel and other decorations can prove very interesting to inquisitive pets, especially cats and young kittens and puppies, and can cause choking or internal blockages. • ANTIFREEZE – Antifreeze tastes sweet and is tempting for cats to drink. It is TOXIC and will KILL a cat that has ingested it. Take care with storage and mop any spillages immediately. Call the vet immediately if you suspect your pet has drunk Antifreeze. • SALT/GRIT ON PAWS – It is a good idea to wash your dogs paws after walks in the winter, as the frozen ground and grit can cause soreness and irritation. • FOREIGN BODIES– Small toys and batteries are often left lying around and can be very dangerous if chewed or swallowed. They can cause obstructions, or in the case of batteries, chemical burns, so ensure everything is picked up off the floor. • DIARRHOEA – Remember when you are tempted to give your pet their ‘Christmas dinner’ or treats, they are not used to such rich food, so may have some vomiting or diarrhoea as a consequence. • STRESS – There are many potential causes of stress for your pets at Christmas, such as lack of routine, crowds and fireworks. They may may just want to hide away from it all so make them a den in a safe area where they can escape if need be. Hopefully these tips will help towards a happy Christmas for all. Anna Tilley RVN Raring2go! Keep Pets Calm this Christmas 30 raring2go.co.uk Keeping Pets Calm 10 Tips to Enjoy a Stress-Free Christmas With visitors, decorations, lack of routine and excitable families, Christmas can be stressful for your pets. Plan ahead to ensure everyone has a fun, festive family time. Here are some safety tips to ensure you can all enjoy a stress free (ish) Christmas! 6. Gifts and Advent Calendars Advent calendars or presents under the tree make the house look festive, but also can be an open invitation to cheeky pets! Make sure they are out of reach. Not only do you not want your furry friend to open your gift, the contents of some may also be harmful to them. 7. Be careful about decorations Young cats and dogs are especially inquisitive and may try to eat tinsel and other decorations, which can cause choking or sickness. Steer clear from putting lights or tinsel around a hamster cage, as it’s easy to be nibbled by a nosy rodent. Whilst looking cute, a tinsel collar can irritate your pets’ skin, (and could be eaten too) so buy a specific Christmas collar instead. 8. Christmas Toys Ensure that small toys and batteries are not left lying around. In a similar way to children, these items can cause injury, that could require urgent hospitalisation. 9. New Year Fireworks Remember that there may be fireworks over the festive period, so keep pets inside, with a safe place to hide. 10. Salt / Grit After a winter walk it’s always a good idea to wash your dog’s paws. Frozen salt and grit can cause irritation to their paws and pads. 1. Try to stick to your usual routines Walk, feed and toilet your pet as close to their usual times as possible, and try not to leave pets at home for longer periods than you usually do. 2. Give your pets space If you have visitors, let your pet meet them when they are ready, and ensure there are safe hiding places, with bedding, where they can retreat to. 3. Outdoor animals may need extra bedding Provide lots of bedding, and ensure it stays dry - anything wet will freeze, which can harm your pet. Check that their water bottles aren’t frozen too. 4. Christmas Food Human food, including chocolate and turkey bones, can be harmful, or even toxic, to pets. To avoid an upset tummy, it’s best to stick to your pet’s usual food, and it avoids weight gain too! If you think your pet has eaten something it shouldn’t, please seek urgent veterinary advice. 5. Flowers and Plants Pets, especially kittens and puppies, can be inquisitive. Whilst plants such as Holly, Mistletoe and Poinsettia’s are part of Christmas, they can also cause nausea and irritation to your pet’s mouth. Lillies are toxic to both cats and dogs. Seek urgent attention if you believe that your pet has ingested something they shouldn’t have.
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