SHEFFIELD & ROTHERHAM P2 P4 to P6 P12 & 13 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2025
Published by Raring2go! Sheffield Tel 07515 397248 sheffield@raring2go.co.uk Copyright © 2024 by Mojo Publishing Ltd No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical or electronic, including photocopying and recording, or by information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the publisher. Requests for permission or further information should be addressed to the Publishers. Whilst the publisher makes every effort to ensure that the businesses featured in this magazine are of the highest quality, we do not guarantee the services and products from any businesses featured. As such Raring2go! Sheffield accepts no legal responsibility for loss arising from the use of services featured or any of the information published. Printed by Gemini Print 01273 464884 Twitter - @raring2gosheff www.facebook.com /Raring2goSheffield Kerry Goding- Editor Welcome to the Winter edition of Insta - Raring2goSheffield Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! The winter clothes are back out, the good thing is it’s time to wrap up and get cosy again. We just need to snow to come. To receive our e-newsletter make sure you become a member of our website and opt in to receive information from us. It’s FREE and you will be one of the first to see what we have for you. Please check with all venues before packing up the kids, as sometimes things change and events get cancelled and we don’t want you having any wasted journeys. Have a great winter and Christmas with the family and kids and remember, wherever you visit and wherever you go, make sure you tell them you found them in Raring2go! Next issue - out in January 2026 Kerry x chasing either a new Have you ever dreamed of taking control of your working We’re looking for a special person to join our network by pur w, or existing, magazine franchise ed, with hing g g area. You really can have a rewarding career and bring up your family! Raring2go! The role of Editor is vari everything from research attend sports days, and take time of I decide my working hours, so Raring2go! has allowed me the f in the school holidays. to try so many new activities and days out. We’ve reviewed after hours events at Marwell and attended opening events at Paultons. Most of all, I love working with organisations. Sometimes, as I’m sat chatting with them over a hot everything from researching what’s on, social media, design, Raring2go! Franchise. No previous an interest in the local area is helpful. investment required to get started. families having fun and you’re love to talk to you. Don’t miss out on this rewarding career and family-friendly lifestyle – apply for details now! Don’t miss out on this rewarding career and family friendly lifestyle. Ask for more details by calling 01273 447101 or by email to info@raring2go.co.uk Have you ever dreamed of taking control of your working life to fit around your family? We’re looking for a special person to join our network by purchasing either a new, or existing, magazine franchise area. Could you be the next Raring2go! Editor? Local Franchises Available! Here’s what one of our franchisees says about Raring2go! You really can have a rewarding career and bring up your family! I decide my working hours. Raring2go! has allowed me the flexibility to do the school run, attend sports days, and take time off in the school holidays. My family & I have been privileged to try so many new activities and days out. We’ve reviewed after hours events at Marwell Zoo and attended opening events at Paultons Park. Most of all, I love working with some fantastic local businesses and amazing organisations. Sometimes, as I’m sat chatting with them over a hot chocolate, I can’t believe how lucky I am that this is part of my job! Being a Raring2go! Editor The role of Editor is very varied, with everything from researching local what’s on info, social media, design, distribution and sales. Support is ALWAYS available from the Raring2go! Franchise. No previous experience is necessary although an interest in the local area is helpful. Please note that a financial investment is required to get started. But, if you’re passionate about local families having fun and you’re eager to be your own boss, we’d love to talk to you. Don’t miss out on this rewarding career and family friendly lifestyle. Ask for more details by calling 01273 447101 or by email to info@raring2go.co.uk Don’t miss out on this rewarding career and family friendly lifestyle. Ask for more details by calling 07515 397248 or by email to sheffield@raring2go.co.uk
Little Kickers have four different football classes each tailored to a different age group. However, they have two core beliefs that we take into every session. Firstly, they believe in something we call “Play not Push”. It means teaching football in a fun, pressure-free environment. They want to give children a positive introduction to sport as a whole, not just football, so they’re more likely to stay healthy and active throughout their lives. Secondly, they believe football can be educational. Coached in the right way it can stimulate imagination and aid early development skills such as learning colours and numbers, following instructions and playing as a team. It’s an approach that has bagged them numerous awards and helped them expand globally over the last 16 years. And like all their Kickers, they never stop learning. They’re continually improving and updating classes, based on feedback and input from child health specialists as well as their network of over 2,250 football coaches worldwide. If you’d like to know how Little Kickers started you can read more them here www.littlekickers.co.uk For more details about local classes call 07532180852 Email bmorton@littlekickers. co.uk Raring2go! Razzamataz Sheffield Raring2go! Little Kickers 4 raring2go.co.uk 5 * *GB only. 18+. Promotion opens 09:00 01/04/2025, closes 23:59 31/03/2026. Redeem by 23:59 31/05/2026. Automatic claim for one free 12-month membership code to Kids Pass for Everyone Active cardholders joining swimming lessons on Direct Debit, continuing their Direct Debit as of 09:00 01/04/2025 or paying in full in advance during the promotional period at participating centres. Everyone Active card required to join swimming lessons. Opt-out via email. Max one claim per person. Valid email address required to claim, and internet access required to redeem free membership code online. Kids Pass requires app download and registration. Existing Kids Pass members will receive an additional 12 months on their pass by emailing enquiries@kidspass.co.uk. Exclusions apply. Visit www.everyoneactive.com/kidspass for full terms. Scan the QR code or visit everyoneactive.com/KidsPass Join now and get a free* 12 month Kids Pass membership.
Raring2go! 7 Raring2go! 6 raring2go.co.uk We live in an increasingly global community where understanding different cultures, building confidence, and communicating creatively are essential skills for young people. Yet these don’t always come naturally. Social media pressures, the lasting effects of lockdowns, and the desire to fit in mean many young people struggle to express themselves authentically. Razzamataz Sheffield supports them by using performing arts to help children and teens find their voice, celebrate individuality, and connect with others. Performing arts develops communication, collaboration, and confidence, which is why Razzamataz offers global experiences such as performing at Disneyland Paris, enrichment trips to New York and Dubai, and international partnerships. These opportunities broaden horizons and show students how creativity can open doors around the world. We also believe in accessible opportunities, including local performances and community events such as performance opportunities in Sheffield and beyond. Whether on a global stage or in a local care home, every student builds resilience, curiosity, and adaptability - qualities valued by future employers. Razzamataz Sheffield provides a nurturing space that supports wellbeing, helping students feel secure, valued, and proud of their progress. Alongside the main school for ages 4 -18, we offer Tots classes to encourage exploration and creativity for children aged 2-3. Free Taster Session To enquire about joining us in 2026 for a free taster session please contact: sheffield@razzamataz. co.uk or alternatively call us on 07979189177. Local (AREA) performing arts school with global ambitions
Raring2go! Raring2go! What’s On 8 raring2go.co.uk 9 Here are 10 fun winter activities to enjoy, perfect for chilly days and seasonal vibes: 6. Winter Collage Using your scavenger hunt objects, make a decorative collage. 8. Winter Movie Bingo Watch festive or winter-themed films and tick off the classics (e.g., snowfall, a holiday dinner, a big hug). 9. DIY Snow Globes Craft your own snow globe using jars, glitter, and small figurines for a fun, creative indoor activity. 5. Winter Walk Gather the coats, hats, scarves & wellies and visit a nature reserve or local park and enjoy the fresh air, it’s so good for your health! 4. Ice Skating Visit a local outdoor or indoor rink for a quintessential winter activity. 3. Winter Scavenger Hunt Make a list of seasonal items that’s in your garden or at a local park, everything the winter season offers, such as leaves, twigs, cones & pebbles etc. 2. Sledding Grab a sled or makeshift one (like a plastic tray) and head to a nearby hill for classic winter fun. 1. Snowman Building Contest If it snows, gather friends or family to create the most creative or extravagant snowman. 7. Gingerbread House Decorating Compete to build and decorate the most creative gingerbread house with family or friends. 10. Cosy Blanket Fort & Storytime Build a blanket fort with fairy lights and spend the evening telling stories or reading wintery tales. Outdoor Indoor
Raring2go! What’s On Raring2go! What’s On 10 raring2go.co.uk 11 What’s On for Winter Embracing the season, there’s so much going on... Christmas, New Year and all the excitment they bring! 4th Christmas Tree Dressing Day If yours isn’t up yet, now’s the time to do it! Festival of Winter Walks Get out and about and enjoy all that Winter offers... 11th Christmas Jumper Day Time for dressing up on your festive jumpers in aid of Save The Children. DECEMBER JANUARY 1st Veganuary Encourging people to try a Vegan lifestyle for the month. 4th National Trivia Day A day to embrace all things Trivia. Did you know the birthstone for January is the garnet? 21st National Museum Selfie Day A great reason for a family day out & take great images together. 27th National Chocolate Cake Day Bringing everyone together to share sweetness and joy. It’s a simple, delicious way to create warm memories and celebrate love in every bite. 29th National Puzzle Day Here at Raring2go! we love puzzles, so be sure to take a look at our website... raring2go.co.uk Together, let’s make it count The RSPB is a registered charity in England and Wales 207076, in Scotland SC037654. Blue Tit by Alamy BGBW26 Every Birdwatch matters Join hundreds of thousands of others and take part in Big Garden Birdwatch - the UK’s largest citizen science wildlife survey. Sign up, connect with nature and make your Birdwatch count. Play your part at www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch Big Garden Birdwatch 23–25 January 2026
THE PAR-FECT FAMILY DAY OUT! GOLF COURSES TWO 8 HOLE ADVENTURE SET AMIDST A TROPICAL PARADISE ATVALLEY CENTERTAINMENT - SHEFFIELD BOOK ONLINE Under 5’s £6.00 5-16yrs £9.25 Student £9.75 (Valid Student ID with expiry date) Concession £9.75 Adult £11.50 Family of 4 £37.50 (Maximum of 2 x Adults) Group of 4 £44.00 Set sail for Valley Centertainment in She eld! We've got two 18 hole Adventure Golf courses taking over 14,000 sq/ft over 2 levels! Your adventure takes you from the boat at the Caribbean Quay, through mysterious sea caves before being marooned on a desert island full of exotic palm trees and mystical jungle ruins! This truly is an adventure like no other! Walk ins are welcome, but why not make life easier by pre booking online via our website www.paradiseislandgolf.com Call us: 0114 256 0950 Email: sheffield@paradiseislandgolf.com 20% OFF ONE ROUND Simply enter R2G2025 when you book online t&c’s apply Offer is valid on online booking only, not valid on our already discounted Family Ticket or 2 course prices, valid until end Dec 2025, PIAG t&c’s apply KIDS PARTIES We provide an excellent setting for children's birthday parties. Book golf with us recive 20% O food at Frankie & Bennies. For full details visit www.paradiseislandgolf.com
Raring2go! Raring2go! 14 raring2go.co.uk 15 1. Nativity! (2009) – A heartwarming comedy about a primary school teacher trying to stage a Christmas musical. 2. Home Alone- the set (1990’s) – A Christmas staple, about a boy defending his home, trips across the country and foiling the bad guys in the process. 3. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) – A beloved adaptation of Dickens’s classic, mixing humour, puppets, and heart. 4. The Snowman(1982) – A beautifully animated British short film with the famous song “Walking in the Air.” 5. Elf (2003) – A family favourite featuring Will Ferrell as a human raised by elves in the North Pole. 6. Scrooge(A Christmas Carol) (1951) – The classic British black-and-white adaptation of Dickens’s novel. 7. Arthur Christmas (2011) – A British animated film about Santa’s clumsy but well-meaning son trying to save Christmas. 8. The Polar Express(2004) – A magical train ride to the North Pole teaches the power of believing. 9. The Grinch(2000 / 2018)** – Whether you prefer Jim Carrey’s live-action version or the animated remake, it’s a festive must-see. 10. The Christmas Chronicles-1 & 2(201820) – Two siblings team up with Santa (played by Kurt Russell) to save Christmas. If your house is like ours, we’ll be watching all of these from December 1st. Hope you enjoy watching them as much as we will… Merry Christmas 10 popular Christmas films Here are 10 popular Christmas films — A Christmas film always gets us in the mood to start celebrating Christmas, here’s our top 10 favourites… Outdoor Activities 1. Snowman Building Contest If it snows, gather friends or family to create the most creative or extravagant snowman. 2. Sledding Grab a sled or makeshift one (like a plastic tray) and head to a nearby hill for classic winter fun. 3. Winter Scavenger Hunt Make a list of seasonal items that’s in your garden or at a local park, everything the winter season offers, such as leaves, twigs, cones & pebbles etc. 4. Ice Skating Visit a local outdoor or indoor rink for a quintessential winter activity. 5. Winter Walk Gather the coats, hats, scarves & wellies and visit a nature reserve or local park and enjoy the fresh air, it’s so good for your health! Indoor Fun 6. Winter Collage Using your scavenger hunt objects, make a decorative collage. 7. Gingerbread House Decorating Compete to build and decorate the most creative gingerbread house with family or friends. 8. Winter Movie Bingo Watch festive or winter-themed films and tick off the classics (e.g., snowfall, a holiday dinner, a big hug). 9. DIY Snow Globes Craft your own snow globe using jars, glitter, and small figurines for a fun, creative indoor activity. 10. Cosy Blanket Fort & Storytime Build a blanket fort with fairy lights and spend the evening telling stories or reading wintery tales. These activities blend the magic of winter with opportunities for creativity, outdoor fun, and cosy indoor entertainment! Winter Activities Here are 10 fun winter activities to enjoy, perfect for chilly days and seasonal vibes:
Raring2go! 17 Raring2go! 16 raring2go.co.uk 1. Start with a plan • Pick a theme or colour scheme (e.g. classic red & gold, silver & blue, woodland, minimalist white, warm-bright, etc.). • Decide whether you want a balanced look or something more eclectic and personal. 2. Fluff and shape your tree • Spend time separating and spreading each branch — it makes a huge difference. • Fill gaps by bending branches or adding extra greenery, pine cones, or ribbon. 3. Lights first • Test the lights before you put them on! • Start from the bottom and work up, weaving lights in and out of branches for depth. • Rough guide: 100 lights per foot of tree height. 4. Add ribbon or garlands • Ribbon tips: • Use wide wired ribbon for volume. • Drape in loose vertical cascades or tuck sections in and out of the tree. • For garland or beads, spiral them evenly around the tree, not too tight. 5. Layer ornaments strategically 1. Large ornaments deep inside the branches for depth. 2. Medium ones in the middle area. 3. Smaller or statement pieces on the outer tips. • Use odd numbers (3s or 5s) for visual balance. • Step back often to adjust placement and spacing. 6. Add texture and interest • Mix shiny, matte, and glitter finishes. • Add natural elements like pinecones, dried orange slices, or wooden ornaments. • Include personal touches (handmade items, family keepsakes). 7. Finish with a topper and skirt • A tree topper should suit your theme — star, angel, bow, or something creative. • A tree skirt or collar hides the base and completes the look. 8. Final touches • Step back, take a photo — it helps spot any uneven sections. • Adjust lighting (warm white for classic, multicolour for playful). • Add wrapped boxes or decorative props under the tree for that full festive feel. Now you can sit back, relax and enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie! top tips for dressing your Christmas tree Here are our Raring2go! top tips for dressing your Christmas tree — whether you’re going for elegant, cozy, or full-on festive! How to Make a Christmas Angel Making a Christmas tree angel is a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your Christmas decorations. Here's how you can craft a simple and beautiful angel using basic materials. MATERIALS NEEDED 1. Paper or fabric(for the angel’s dress, such as white card, felt, or lace). 2. Polystyrene ball or small wooden bead (for the head). 3. Pipe cleanersor wire (for the halo and arms). 4. Ribbonor metallic thread (for decoration). 5. Glue (hot glue gun works best). 6. Scissors. 7. Markers or paint (to draw the angel’s face). 8. Glitter, sequins, or embellishments (optional, for decoration). STEPS 1. Create the Angel’s Dress • Option 1: Paper Cone Roll a piece of white card or paper into a cone shape and secure it with glue or tape. Trim the bottom to make it even so the cone can stand upright. • Option 2: Fabric Dress Cut a circular piece of fabric and gather it at the top, tying it with a ribbon to form a dress shape. 2. Make the Head • Take a polystyrene ball or a wooden bead and glue it on top of the cone or fabric dress. • Draw a simple face with marker pen or paint if desired. 3. Add Arms • Cut a piece of pipe cleaner or wire, bend it into a "U" shape, and glue it to the back of the angel for arms. • You can also wrap small fabric or ribbon around the pipe cleaner for added texture. 4. Create the Halo • Shape a small circle out of a pipe cleaner or wire for the halo. • Attach it to the back of the head with glue or an additional piece of pipe cleaner. 5. Make Wings • Cut out wing shapes from white card, lace, or fabric. • Decorate the wings with glitter or sequins if desired. • Glue the wings to the back of the angel’s dress. 6. Decorate the Angel • Add ribbon, beads, or small embellishments to enhance the angel’s appearance. • Use glitter glue or metallic paint to add sparkle. 7. Attach to the Tree • If the angel is lightweight, you can attach a string loop for hanging. • For a larger angel, leave the cone base open at the bottom to fit on the tree's top. Tips • Experiment with different colours and materials, like gold, silver, or even recycled items, to match your tree's theme. • If crafting with children, use safe scissors and non-toxic glue. Your handmade Christmas tree angel is ready to add a heavenly touch to your Christmas decor!
Raring2go! 19 Raring2go! 18 raring2go.co.uk Winter recipe Gingerbread Man Method 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with baking paper. 2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry ingredient mixture aside. 3. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer or by hand, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. 4. Add the golden syrup, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined. 5. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix. 6. Divide the dough in half and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour or until it’s firm. 7. Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use gingerbread man-shaped cookie cutters to cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Repeat with the other half of the dough. 8. Bake the gingerbread men for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to brown. 9. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. 10. Once the cookies have cooled, you can decorate them with icing, sweets, or any other decorations you like. Enjoy your homemade gingerbread men! These are perfect treat for kids and adults alike. Ingredients 225g Plain flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 75g unsalted butter, softened 100g soft brown sugar 100g Golden Syrup 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract A classic that can be made and enjoyed all year round… It’s quick and easy and definitely one for the kids to join in with preparing! Raring2make! Recipes to make as a family for the family 10 WINTER JOKES FOR KIDS. 1. What do snowmen eat for breakfast? Frosted akes! 2. Why did the boy keep his trumpet out in the snow? Because he wanted to play cool jazz! all an old s 3. What do you call an old snowman? Water! cold in w 4. Why donʻt mountains get cold in winter? They wear snowcaps! an get aro 5. How does a snowman get around? By riding an icicle! ndeer with bad manners? 6. What do you call a reindeer with bad manners? Rude-olph! o therapy 7. Why did the snowman go to therapy? Because he had a meltdown! 8. Whatʻs a snowmanʻs favourite snack? Ice Krispies treats! dog on a s 9. What do you call a dog on a snowy day? A chili-dog! winter but never gets hurt 10. What falls in the winter but never gets hurt? Snow!
Raring2go! 21 Raring2go! 20 raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! What’s On Raring2go! 22 raring2go.co.uk 23 2026
Raring2go! Raring2go! 24 raring2go.co.uk 25 Birthday on a budget 1. Keep the Guest List Small Fewer kids = fewer goodie bags, less food, fewer activities. Instead of inviting the whole class, invite: • A few close friends • Cousins only • “As many guests as the child’s age” (e.g., 6 guests for a 6th birthday) 2. Host at a Free Location Avoid paid venues. Great free or nearly free spaces include: • Home or Garden • Public park • Neighbourhood community room • Nature trail (great for scavenger hunts) 3. Choose a Theme You Can DIY Pick themes that are easy to decorate with handmade items or things you already have. Examples: • Movie night. • Dino dig. • Superheroes • Art party • Pokémon • Princess tea party 4. Plan Simple, Low-Cost Games Kids don’t need expensive entertainment. Ideas: • Scavenger hunt • DIY piñata • Sack races • Obstacle course • Musical chairs • Simon Says • Beanbag toss • Treasure hunt 6. Save on the Cake Instead of buying a Supermarket/bakery cake: • Bake one at home • Use a boxed mix & decorate nicely • Cupcakes instead of a full cake • Make a brownie or sponge cake in one pan 7. Skip Goodie Bags (Or Do Low-Cost Alternatives) Most goody bags get tossed anyway. Alternatives: • One nicer item per child (e.g., a book or colouring pack) • A party activity they take home (art project or slime) • A bar of chocolate/ bag of sweets after the piñata Or skip favours entirely—totally acceptable now. 8. Decorate Smart Avoid themed plates, cups, banners, etc. They add up fast. Instead: • Buy solid-colour partyware • Print your own banners or signs • Use pound store décor • Borrow folding tables/chairs if needed A few well-placed themed items make the whole party feel decorated. 9. Use Digital Invites Skip printed invitations. Free sites include: • Canva • Facebook events • Email or text 10. Shop Strategically The best party deals are usually at: • Supermarkets • Thrift shops • Facebook Marketplace • Ebay You can often buy like-new party décor used cheaply or free. Final Tip Focus on fun and presence, not perfection. Kids remember: • Laughing with friends • Running around • Eating cake • Feeling celebrated They don’t remember: • Fancy balloon arches • Designer character plates 5. Combine Food & Activities A themed food craft is fun • DIY tacos • Build-your-own sundaes • Decorate cupcakes • Make mini pizzas
Imaginary play, also called pretend play, is a powerful and natural part of childhood development. During imaginary play, children use objects, actions, and ideas to represent other situations, people, or experiences. A block may become a phone, a stick may become a magic wand, or a child may take on the role of a parent, doctor, superhero, or teacher.Through this type of play, children practice problem-solving, language, creativity, and emotional understanding. Imaginary play gives children a safe space to explore emotions and experiences they may not fully understand yet. A child pretending to care for a “sick” doll, for example, might be processing a recent doctor visit. It also supports social development as children negotiate roles and storylines with peers, learning cooperation and empathy. By inventing scenarios and characters, children strengthen imagination and flexible thinking—skills that benefit both academic learning and everyday life. Imaginary play: Raring2go! Raring2go! Raring2make! 26 raring2go.co.uk 27 Here are 10 unique and thoughtful Christmas gift ideas that move beyond the typical holiday presents: 1. Custom Star Map: A framed star map that shows the night sky as it appeared on a speci c date, such as the recipient’s birthday, an anniversary, or Christmas Eve. 2. Personalized Recipe Book: A custom recipe book where you can gather family recipes, personal favourites, or even create a themed cookbook for the recipient to enjoy. 3. Experience Gift: Give the gift of an experience like cooking classes, concert tickets, a weekend getaway, or a subscription to an activity box (such as a wine or art subscription). 4. Eco-Friendly Starter Kit: A thoughtful gift for sustainability enthusiasts, including reusable shopping bags, stainless steel straws, a bamboo toothbrush, and ecofriendly cleaning products. 5. Memory Jar: Create a jar lled with handwritten notes of memories, compliments, or reasons you’re grateful for the recipient. They can read one whenever they need a boost. 6. DIY Craft Kit: as candle-mak g A kit for a fun DIY project, such as candle-making, knitting, or even building a birdhouse. It’s a perfect way for someone to get creative. 7. Subscription Service: Sign them up for a subscription box that matches their interests. Examples include book clubs, snack boxes, wine clubs, or monthly ower deliveries. 8. Personalised Blanket: A cosy, custom-made blanket with the recipient’s name, initials, or a favourite quote. You can also have it in their favourite colour or pattern. 9. Wellness Basket: A thoughtful collection of wellness items like scented candles, bath salts, essential oils, skincare products, and a plush robe for a relaxing self-care experience. 10. Customised Calendar: Create a personalized calendar lled with photos of memorable moments, family pictures, or their favourite quotes to brighten their year ahead. These alternative ideas can be a way to give something meaningful, practical, and memorable this Christmas! 10 IDEAS FOR CHRISTMAS GIFTS RECIPE BOOK CALENDAR
With simple household items, children can build forts, create pretend worlds, or invent new games that encourage imagination and problem-solving. Whether drawing, building with blocks, dressing up, or helping in the kitchen, home play supports learning through everyday experiences. It also strengthens family bonds, as parents and siblings can join in, share ideas, and spend meaningful time together. Playing at home is flexible, safe, and accessible, allowing children to learn, express themselves, and develop important skills while having fun. Playing at home Playing at home offers children a comfortable and familiar environment to explore their creativity and interests. Here are 5 simple and fun ideas for what children can play at home: 1. Indoor Treasure Hunt Hide small objects around the house and give clues or a map for children to find them. 2. Pretend Restaurant or Shop Children can take turns serving food, taking orders, or acting as customers. 3. Fort Building Use pillows, blankets, and chairs to create a cozy hideout or pretend castle. 4. DIY Obstacle Course Set up a safe course using cushions, tape, and furniture for jumping, crawling, and balancing. 5. Arts and Crafts Station Provide paper, crayons, glue, and recycled materials so children can create their own artwork or inventions. Raring2go! Raring2go! Educatiol 28 raring2go.co.uk 29 www.raring2go.co.uk/shop/ Sustainably made wooden toys designed for growing minds for 2 years + £54.99 Small Foot Toys High Quality Traditional Wooden Toys £32.99 Cuttable Fruit and Vegetables Set “fresh” £49.99 Wooden Rainbow Building Blocks XL Classic Wooden Doctor’s Bag £52.99 Pastel Baby Walker with Building Blocks
Raring2go! Raring2grow! Raring2go! It’s Our Planet Too 30 raring2go.co.uk 31
Raring2go! Raring2go! It’s Our Planet Too 32 raring2go.co.uk 33 The crisp, fresh air and peaceful quiet of winter create a calming atmosphere, perfect for connecting with nature and each other. Whether it’s through snowy woods, along frosty park paths, or by a frozen lake, winter walks offer a unique way to experience the outdoors. Dressing warmly in layers is key for staying comfortable during colder temperatures. Making sure everyone wears hats, gloves, scarves, and waterproof boots to keep warm and dry.Winter also brings a chance to experience the beauty of frosted trees, winter birds, and if we have some snow-covered landscapes, making every walk feel magical. Family winter walks are not just great for physical health—they can improve mental well-being, offering a peaceful escape from holiday stress or screen time.The cooler temperatures make it easier to enjoy brisk walks without feeling overheated. To make the walk even more fun, you can create winter-themed games, such as scavenger hunts or searching for animal tracks. Afterwards, warm up with hot chocolate and a tasty snack, making winter walks a delightful family tradition that brings everyone closer together. Winter walks with the family Winter walks with the family are a great way to enjoy the season’s beauty while staying active and bonding.
From ideas for fun family time together to some great awareness days. CLICK HERE to find a selection of ideas that are happening all in your area and across the country this winter. www.raring2go.co.uk/whats-on
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