SOLIHULL MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk AUTUMN 2025 CLUBS & CLASSES P16 WHAT’S ON? P3 COMPETITIONS P30 WIN!
Raring2go! EDITOR’S WELCOME 2 raring2go.co.uk • It’s FREE to join • Monthly email newsletters with new offers and events • Download vouchers and save £££’s • Great competitions Become a website member Please recycle this magazine when you are finished with it. JOIN NOW raring2go.co.uk Copyright © 2025 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 any information storage and retrieval system, 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 business featured. Printed by Gemini Print. Telephone: 01273 468884 • Sign up for FREE! • Monthly email NEWSLETTERS with the latest OFFERS and EVENTS • Download VOUCHERS and save £££’s • Enter COMPETITIONS for amazing prizes! Contents Page What’s On?.......................................3 Santa’s Diary....................................10 Clubs & Classes...............................16 Parties. ............................................ 24 Preschool..........................................27 Competitions................................... 30 Follow us on social media to keep up to date all year with your local #gotoguide for families. Raring2goSolihull Raring2goSolihull raring2gosolihull Time for Autumn family fun As we head into Autumn and the nights start to draw in, there are so many exciting festivals and events heading our way. From Halloween and Bonfire Night through to Christmas – get ready for some fun filled family time. Before you know it, we will be running around in the chaos of it all so, get organised and plan where you are going to take your family this year. Then you can relax and enjoy it when the time comes. I hope you have a fantastic end to 2025. Raring2go! will be back in the New Year with lots of ideas to kick start 2026! Nicola, Editor
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14 – 18 October The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical Belgrade Theatre, Coventry www.belgrade.co.uk 21 -26 October Stick Man The Albany Theatre, Coventry www.albanytheatre.co.uk 12 – 15 November Slava’s Snow Show The Alexandra, Birmingham www.atgtickets.com 19 November – 2 January Sleeping Beauty Belgrade Theatre, Coventry www.belgrade.co.uk 21 November – 13 December The Nutcracker 2025 Birmingham Hippodrome www.birminghamhippodrome.com 22 November – 31 December Cinderella The Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham www.oldrep.co.uk 25 November – 31 January The BFG Royal Shakespeare Theatre www.rsc.org.uk 29 November – 28 December The Tiger Who Came to Tea Warwick Arts Centre www.warwickartscentre.co.uk 1 – 28 December The Owl who came for Christmas mac Birmingham www.macbirmingham.co.uk 3 December – 3 January Well Done, Mummy Penguin Belgrade Theatre, Coventry www.belgrade.co.uk 4 December – 11 January Anansi the Spider Birmingham Rep www.birmingham-rep.co.uk 6 December – 4 January Beauty and the Beast The Albany Theatre, Coventry www.albanytheatre.co.uk 10 December -3 January Ready, Steady, Colour’s Christmas Feast The Other Place, Stratford Upon Avon www.rsc.org.uk 20 December – 1 February Robin Hood Birmingham Hippodrome www.birminghamhippodrome.com 21 – 22 December Wicked Wizard of Oz – A Cirque Spectacular Bp Pulse Live, Birmingham www.bppulselive.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? What’s On at the Theatre? 4 raring2go.co.uk There are lots of family friendly shows coming up at our local theatres. Here are some of our favourites.
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 5 Book now belgrade.co.uk 31 OCT 14 – 18 OCT 30 OCT 9 OCT 19 NOV – 3 JAN 3 DEC – 3 JAN
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 6 raring2go.co.uk Until 1 November Lower Drayton Farm - PYO Pumpkins Weekends from 27th September then daily from 11th October. Staffordshire’s BIGGEST pumpkin patch opens its gates again this spooky season – one pumpkin included in entry alongside PYO veggies, indoor carving barn, friendly animals to meet, outdoor playground and Witch School fun! www.lowerdraytonfarm.co.uk Until 2 November Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery – GIANTS Step into a world of prehistoric giant animals in this immersive, family-friendly exhibition, featuring lifesized 3D models, nearly complete fossil skeletons, hands-on activities and digital projections. Journey through time, from 66 million years ago to the present day, to encounter the awe-inspiring creatures that roamed the Earth after the extinction of the dinosaurs. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 4 -31 October Pumpkins R Us Warwickshire’s biggest and best Halloween experience is back at Dallas Burston Polo Club for 2025! Pumpkins R Us have been growing every size, colour and shape of pumpkin you can image for more than twenty years! Join them to pick your pumpkin, find your Halloween decorations in the shop and tuck into some tasty treats in the on-site cafe. Bring the kids, the grandparents, the dog – everyone is welcome! Children aged 2 and under are FREE and do not need a ticket. www.halloweenpumpkins.co.uk 11 October – 2 November Hatton Adventure World – Halloween Spooktacular Halloween Spooktacular is packed with fangtastic fun for all the family! Running weekends from October 11th and daily from October 25th - November 2nd, this spooky spectacular promises thrills, laughs, and plenty of eerie entertainment. Guests can wander through the haunted house, enjoy spellbinding shows, hit the Monster Mash What’s On? Autumn 2025 Disco, and meet Hatton’s friendly resident ghouls. Little monsters will love the themed activities, photo ops, and zombie laser combat! Pumpkins will be available to pick and purchase from the patch, priced from £2–£5 depending on size. With acres of outdoor adventure, plus plenty of indoor fun and Halloween magic, it’s the ultimate half-term day out. www.adventure.hattonworld.com 17 – 19 October Mell Square - Solihull Food Festival Solihull town centre will transform into a food lover’s paradise as the Solihull Food Festival returns! Expect an irresistible mix of local favourites and exciting new flavours, plus live entertainment, family fun, and a buzzing atmosphere all weekend long. On Sunday 19th October, join the Dino Bake Off at 12:00 or 1:30. There’s a dino in our kitchen, what are we gonna do? Come and find out as the dino chefs cause carnage! www.solihullbid.co.uk 18 October – 1 November Magic Alley – Possession Think you’re not scared of ghosts? Prove it. This Halloween, something’s wrong at Magic Alley. The ghosts of Halloween past are back… and they’re not staying silent. From flickering lights to phantom footsteps, every room hides a story and every ghost wants to be heard. Are you brave enough to walk through the haunted hallows? Will you be the one who makes it to the end without looking over your shoulder? Don’t worry though this isn’t the terrifying event. Possession is full of spooky surprises, mysterious moments, and ghostly goings-on… without the need to sleep with the lights on! Perfect for curious minds, brave kids aged 9+ and adults who love a little Halloween magic without the full fright night experience. Children aged 7 and under will not be admitted. www.magicalleystratford.com 18 October – 2 November West Midlands Safari Park – Spooky Spectacular This Halloween, West Midlands Safari Park is unleashing monster mayhem for a spooky experience like no other! They’re pulling out all the stops with a mix of thrilling adventures, spooky shows, and monstrously good fun for the whole family! www.wmsp.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 7 scan QR CODE 2025 Join us for the great dINO bake off SUNDAY 19th Oct 17-19th October sticker trail HEADLINE SPONSOR Mini Mugs is open 7 days a week and has session times which you can book through the website. Birthday Party Packages Available. Discover a world of play and delight in our Mini Mugs Funhouse Play Village and Café. Check our website for details of our special events: 27 – 31 October – Halloween events Throughout December - Christmas events MINI MUGS FUNHOUSE 217 STRATFORD ROAD, SHIRLEY, SOLIHULL B90 3AH 07794 915451 INFO@MINIMUGSFUNHOUSE.COM @MINIMUGSFUNHOUSE @MINIMUGSFUNHOUSE • FREE WIFI WWW.MINIMUGSFUNHOUSE.COM
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 8 raring2go.co.uk 25 October Sarehole Mill – Pumpkins on the Pond Pumpkins are taking over Sarehole Mill! Explore the candle lit grounds to find all the pumpkins and see them floating in the darkness of the Mill Pond, explore inside the Mill and see the wicked waterwheel turning throughout the evening. Take part in a halloween themed craft activity in the festoon lit courtyard and bring in your own decorated pumpkins to add to our putrid pumpkin patch. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 25 & 26 October Resorts World Birmingham – 10th Anniversary Celebrations Resorts World Birmingham is turning 10! Help them celebrate with photobooth fun, birthday hat making, party games with Magic Russ, music by Heavy Beat Brass Band, amazing giveaways, kids silent disco and Louby Lou – the sax-playing clown! www.resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk 25 October – 2 November Stratford Butterfly Farm - Día de Muertos This October half term the Butterfly Farm will be celebrating the amazing migration story of the Monarch Butterfly and why they are associated with Día de Muertos. Daily butterfly lifecycle demonstrations will take place at 11:30 am in the Discovery Zone, where there will be plenty of beautiful orange Monarch’s flying, and vibrantly coloured caterpillars to be found! The Monarch butterfly is the largest species found in the British Isles and one of our rarest migrants. Renowned for its remarkable longdistance travel, they arrive like clockwork in Mexico around early November, which coincides with Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations. www.butterflyfarm.co.uk 25 October – 2 November Touchwood Shopping Centre – Halloween School of Magic There is magic in the Solihull air this Halloween and we are inviting you to take part in a treasure What’s On? Autumn 2025 trove of magical adventures including an immersive wizarding school of magic, an enchanting sticker trail, where you’ll collect spooky ingredients for a special potion, and a wand collecting trail to help banish a mischievous wizard. www.eventsattouchwood.co.uk 27 – 31 October Thinktank – Alien Creation Station and Galactic Mission Science Show Get hands-on designing your own alien life and the planet your creation lives on. Our Universe is filled with weird and wonderful worlds, some very different to our own home here on Planet Earth. Help us design what life might look like on other planets and create what this new world might look like from space. Also, get ready for an entertaining, family-friendly science show packed with fiery experiments, glowing creatures, creepy creatures, and astonishing discoveries. Learn how scientists search for life beyond Earth and meet some of the weirdest, most alien-like animals that live right here among us. Dare to explore the unknown, you might just find that life is stranger than fiction! www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 28 & 30 October The Chocolate Shed – Chocolate Making Workshops Ideal for any weather, these sessions are a special treat. Each workshop is run with a seasonal twist. Suitable for children of all ages (5-16). Check website for the timing and recommended ages for each session. www.thechocolateshed.com 29 - 31 October St John’s House – St John’s Haunted House Get ready for a family friendly bone-chilling experience at St John’s Haunted House! Bring your friends and family along for screams and thrills! Get spooked as you explore rooms. Discover the traditional story of Rapunzel and the wicked witch, with no frying pans in sight. Go on a trail through the woods, past Rapunzel’s tower and watch out for the wicked witch. All activities take place inside or undercover outside. Buy a hot drink, and snacks, from the coffee van while your children make potions and slime. An undercover seated area is available. www.heritage.warwickshire.gov.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 9 Enchanted Christmas Kingdom Grotto Book Now Rated Best Christmas Experience Review Book Now PUMPKIN PICKING ALL DAY PLUS SO MUCH MORE! ANIMAL HANDLING ZOMBIE ILLUSION SHOW TRICK OR TREAT VILLAGE LASER COMBAT HATTONWORLD.COM
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 31 October Solihull Town Centre – Spooktacular Get into the spirit of Halloween in Solihull town centre for the amazing Spooktacular – free for all! There will be plenty of roaming street entertainment on hand to make sure your visit is one you won’t be forgetting in a hurry! www.solihullbid.co.uk 13 -16 November nec, Birmingham - Festive Gift Fair The biggest and most lively indoor Christmas Shopping Fair in the West Midlands is back. Be inspired and get your festive preparations off to a flying start at the ever popular 4-day Festive Gift Fair this November. Now in its 29th year, it remains the Go-To event in the UK for Christmas Shopping… and for a good reason!! 325 stalls in one hall! As always, it will be bursting at the seams with a colourful, eclectic mix of unusual stocking fillers, gift and craft ideas for all ages and tastes. Festive food and drink to try before you buy and great Christmas decorations for your home and garden… plus lots of Special Show offers. www.festivegiftfair.co.uk 22 & 23 November The Chocolate Shed – Create your own Chocolate Advent Calendar What better way to kick start your festive season than creating your very own, bespoke, delicious chocolate Advent calendar! Taking place in our Warwickshire chocolaterie, those attending will have the opportunity try their hand (and sticky fingers) at chocolate making, moulding and decorating at least 24 fun festive shapes each. At the end of the workshop, each guest will take away the What’s On? Autumn 2025 chocolate Advent calendar of their dreams, crafted by themselves. There will be plenty of Christmass-y chocolate cheer along the way (and nibbling). Ideal for guests aged 8 years and above. www.thechocolateshed.com 13 November – 4 January Compton Verney – Festive Story Trail Join the Christmas Story Trail and wander the Compton Verney grounds. Take part in the festive trail looking for clues and posing for a photo along the way. www.comptonverney.org.uk 10 December – 3 January The Other Place, Stratford Upon Avon – Ready, Steady Colour’s Christmas Feast A merry blend of creativity, comedy and music at The Other Place this Christmas. Dinner, designed by you. Take a seat at our make-believe Christmas restaurant, choose your ‘food’ and colour it in. One waiter’s lost their Christmas spirit, another’s got too much, and Head Chef’s patience is fast running out - they need your help to find their festive joy. Ready Steady Colour’s Christmas Feast comes to The Other Place. A chance for children and adults to take part together in a merry blend of creativity, comedy and music. Suitable for young audiences age 3+ www.rsc.org.uk 20 – 21 December The Chocolate Shed – Chocolate Making Workshops Ideal for any weather, these sessions are a special treat. Each workshop is run with a seasonal twist. Suitable for children of all ages (5-16). Check website for the timing and recommended ages for each session. www.thechocolateshed.com 20 – 23 December West Midlands Safari Park – Christmas Panto For the very first time, they’re bringing the magic of panto to the Safari Park this festive season! Join them in Treetops Pavilion for a dazzling performance of Aladdin, showing on four exclusive dates only. Showtimes: 1.00pm & 4.00pm daily (show lasts 45 minutes) www.wmsp.co.uk 10 raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 11 Sticker Trail Kids Disco Spooky Characters Halloween Parade All activities are FREE! Friday 31st SCAN QR CODE
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 12 raring2go.co.uk tiCkets on sale WATCH TOP-TIER WOMEN'S FOOTBALL AT VILLA PARK *All fixtures are subject to change SECURE YOUR SEAT TODAY! TICKETS.AVFC.CO.UK 12 OCT 2 NOV 16 NOV
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 13 based at combat sports centre, vulcan road, solihull an imaginative role play centre for under 5 years to book your space visit info@solihullplaytown.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 22, 23, 29, 30 November & 1-24 December Touchwood Shopping Centre – Santa’s Grotto Touchwood is set to sparkle and shine this Christmas, with the return of Santa’s Grotto, meet and greets with the kids’ favourite seasonal characters and carols from local choirs. www.eventsattouchwood.co.uk 22 November – 24 December West Midlands Safari Park – Santa Safari A magical festive day out the whole family will love - combining a four-mile winter Safari with an unforgettable visit to Santa in his beautifully decorated Grotto. With your pre-booked time slot, you’ll begin your journey at the Discovery Trail, where one of Santa’s cheerful Elves will greet you and guide you through a magical North Pole adventure. Along the way you can spot some elves making some gifts ready for the workshop! You’ll also encounter some delightful characters and be dazzled by the northern lights. www.wmsp.co.uk 22 November – 24 December Magic Alley – Christmas in the Kingdom of Magic Children and adults alike can start their adventure through an enchanted world ultimately leaving footsteps on a white blanket that sparkles under the glow of a thousand lights. As you journey deeper into this magical land, the air is filled with the melodies of festive songs, leading you to the most cherished of all encounters – a visit with Father Christmas himself. www.magicalleychristmas.com Selected dates 29 November – 24 December Lower Drayton Farm – Jingle Ville Booking essential. Hop on the festive double decker bus, watch a fun festive film, meet Santa, choose a toy from the elves’ toyshop, get creative with Christmas crafts, create your very own ‘TeddyTastic’ cuddly to take home and cherish, mingle with festive characters and more… Plus you get to spend the rest of your day out enjoying the award-winning PLAY@ farm attraction. www.playatthefarm.co.uk Weekends and Christmas Holidays from 29th November - 23rd December Thinktank – Storytime with Santa Children will gather around to enjoy a heartwarming Christmas story read by Santa, before heading to Santa’s workshop for a hands-on craft activity. While families get creative, each child will be invited to meet Santa personally to receive a special gift and with a chance for parents to take a photo to remember the day. This 45-minute experience is filled with festive cheer, creativity, and memorable moments, making it the perfect way to celebrate the season together. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 30 November – 24 December Hatton Adventure World – Enchanted Christmas Kingdom Step into a world of wonder and magic at the Enchanted Christmas Kingdom 2025, where dreams come to life and festive enchantment knows no bounds. Immerse yourself in the enchanting activities, delicious food, and visiting Father Christmas in his woodland grotto. Reserve your spot in the joyous celebration that has left guests raving about the magic of the season! Every child ticket includes the chance to create their own bear or choose a toy from Father Christmas’ Secret Toy Shop, Festive Shows, Gingerbread Decorating, Reindeer Food Making, Animal Encounters, Soft Play & More! www.adventure.hattonworld.com Santa’s Diary 14 raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 15 BOOK TICKETS AT EVENTSATTOUCHWOOD.CO.UK TOUCHWOODMOMENTS TOUCHWOODSOLIHULL @WEARETOUCHWOOD EXPLORE MORE MAGIC EXPLORE CHRISTMAS AT TOUCHWOOD Light Switch On - 22 Nov with Yeti & the Explorer Santa’s Grotto - 22, 23, 29, 30 Nov & 1-24 Dec The Grinch - 29 Nov, 13 & 15 Dec Jingle Bell the Reindeer - 7 Dec The Christmas Crackers - 21 Dec Schools Christmas Choir Competition SAT 25 OCT - SUN 2 NOV There is magic in the Solihull air this Halloween. Take part in a treasure trove of magical adventures including the immersive Touchwood School of Magic & Wizardry, a FREE enchanting sticker trail and a FREE wand collecting trail to help banish a mischievous wizard. Touchwood_Raring to Go 2025.indd 1 16/09/2025 16:53
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 16 raring2go.co.uk for all new customers: for all new customers: FREE DAY FREE DAY To get your free day code, simply head to: www.teamsupersports.co.uk/new-solihull 5yrs - 16yrs old Solihull School, B91 3DJ 8am - 5pm info@teamsupersports.co.uk 01675 488494 WWW.TEAMSUPERSPORTS.CO.UK/SOLIHULL AWARD-WINNING SPORTS CAMPS AWARD-WINNING SPORTS CAMPS Tax-Free Childcare & Childcare Vouchers Tax-Free Childcare & Childcare Vouchers Accepted Accepted DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE 10% OFF Early Bird 10% OFF Siblings 20% OFF Full-week 10% OFF Early Bird 10% OFF Siblings 20% OFF Full-week October Half-Term | Christmas | February Half-Term | Easter | May Half-Term | Summer October Half-Term | Christmas | February Half-Term | Easter | May Half-Term | Summer
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 17 (257 reviews) 4.9 RUGBY CRICKET FOOTBALL GYMNASTICS HOCKEY NETBALL TENNIS “There isn’t another holiday club that matches Super Sports. The most incredible camp for all ages, with a whole host of sports to choose from and an enthusiastic staff team.” Parent, August 2025 “Best Multi-Sport Holiday Camps Provider 2025 - Midlands” 2025 Global Excellence Awards 7 Sports | 6 Sessions | Children CHOOSE a sport for each session! Scan for a FREE DAY!
18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Clubs & Classes Ackers Adventure An array of activities for 8 – 18 year olds to try at camps every school holiday. Adventurous activities include bushcraft, skiing, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, zip wire, fan descender, bell boating, disc golf and tubing. Run and organised by fully qualified and experienced instructors who will make sure that each child has an exciting day of adventure. Pre-booking online is essential. www.ackers-adventure.co.uk Aspire Active Camps Sports and activity childcare during every school holiday at venues throughout the Midlands. www.aspire-sports.co.uk Diamond Swim Academy We aim to offer high quality Learn To Swim provision for all. Our highly experienced staff have represented Great Britain in Swimming at 5 Olympics and competed internationally over a period of 18 years. www.diamondswimacademy.co.uk Everyone Active Swimming lessons available for children of all ages and abilities. Available at Tudor Grange Leisure Centre and North Solihull Sports Centre. www.everyoneactive.com Explore Learning Discover what your child can achieve with a brilliant tutor and a curriculum tailored to their individual needs. View our award-winning tuition for GCSE, SATS, 11 Plus & more. www.explorelearning.co.uk Smart 11 Plus Our 11+ tutors will give your child outstanding support in their journey to grammar school. We offer private group 11+ tuition to assist your child in their preparation. Our unique 11+ courses are personalised to meet the needs of each individual. www.smart11plus.co.uk Solihull Young Dancers We welcome ballerinas (age 2 1/2 +), plus any tap and modern jazz dancers (aged 5 +). Encouraging musicality, expression and imagination. Exam and Show work. Based at St Helens Church, Solihull. Spaces available. Est. over 30 years. www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk Stagecoach Dance, drama and singing classes for children aged 2-18. Theatre schools on Saturdays plus holiday workshops open to all. Tel: Jenny on 0121 745 4007 www.stagecoach.co.uk/solihull Team Super Sports At Team Super Sports, quality is at the heart of everything we do. Passionate about sport, every member of our ‘Team’ of young people join us to improve in their sport(s) while having fun with their friends. We run holiday sports camps during the school holidays for children aged 5-16 at Solihull School. We are widely regarded as one of the top sports coaching providers within Solihull and surrounding areas. www.teamsupersports.co.uk Tutoring 4 Success We specialise in helping primary-aged children build strong foundations in English and Maths, ensuring they are well-prepared for secondary school success. Contact: emanuela.tutoring@gmail.com
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 19 KING EDWARDS GIRLS SCHOOL, EDGBASTON, B15 2UB KING EDWARDS BOYS SCHOOL, EDGBASTON, B15 2UB KING EDWARDS CAMP HILL GIRLS, KINGS HEATH, B14 7QJ ARCHBISHOP ILSLEY, ACOCKS GREEN, B27 7XY THE BLUE COAT SCHOOL, HARBORNE, B17 OHR (BCS PUPILS ONLY) INFO@DIAMONDSWIMACADEMY.CO.UK TO BOOK
Raring2go! THINGS TO DO 20 raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 21 Stagecoach Performing Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Performing Arts Limited. Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 16 year-olds Giving children and young people the Creative Courage to stand up on stage for over 35 years. stagecoach coleshill enrolling for the neW term stagecoach.co.uk/coleshill 0121 745 4007 coleshill@stagecoach.co.uk
Raring2go! RECIPES Mummies on Toast Ingredients • Cheese cut into thin strips • Sliced bread • Tomato puree • Black olives, sliced Method 1. Toast one side of the bread 2. On the untoasted side spread tomato puree over the bread 3. Lay strips of cheese across the puree and at slight angles to look like bandages. 4. Add olives for eyes 5. Pop back under the grill to melt the cheese Tasty Monster Mouth Treats Ingredients • Apples • Smooth Peanut Butter • Mini marshmallows or white chocolate eggs Method 1. Cut the apples into 8 thick slices 2. Spread a little peanut butter on one side of each slice 3. Place a row of marshmallows or eggs onto one slice and place another apple slice, peanut butter side down, on top of the sweets Spooky Halloween Drink Ingredients • Milk or water • Hot Chocolate drink powder • Strawberry sauce • Whipped cream • Chocolate chips/ drops Method 1. Drizzle strawberry sauce around the edge of a heat proof glass (you only need a little - you don’t want it to look like a massacre!) 2. Make the Hot Chocolate according to the packet’s instructions 3. Pour the Hot Chocolate into the glass 4. Squirt a ‘ghost’ like shape of whipped cream on top of the drink and add 2 chocolate drops for the eyes Green Worm Jelly Ingredients • 1/2 Pint Boiling Water • 1/2 Pint Cold Water • Pack of Green Jelly • 6 Jelly Worms Method 1. Make the jelly up according to the packets instructions 2. Pour into glasses 3. Add a worm once cooled but not set so that you can stick part of the worm into the jelly so he is wriggling out of the jelly! Halloween recipes Halloween may look a little bit different this year so why not think about planning a little celebration at home with some fun spooky treats. 22 raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! WELLBEING How to Help Your Child Deal with Rejection Rejection is one of life’s most difficult experiences, and for children, it can feel especially overwhelming. Whether they’re left out on the playground, ghosted online, or turned down by a team or school, the emotional impact can be deep. As parents, our instinct may be to fix the problem or protect them from pain. However, helping your child face rejection is essential for building emotional resilience and self-confidence. • START BY LISTENING When your child shares a painful experience, pause and listen without rushing to offer advice or solutions. Validate their feelings with empathy. Say something like, “That sounds really tough. I’m sorry you’re feeling this way.” Avoid dismissing their emotions with phrases like “It’s not a big deal” or “You’ll find new friends.” These moments feel huge to a child, and they need to know their feelings are valid. • REFRAME THE EXPERIENCE Children often blame themselves after being rejected. Help them consider other possibilities. If a friend excluded them, ask, “Do you think they may not have realized how that made you feel?” This encourages empathy and helps them not internalize the rejection. • TACKLING DIGITAL AND ACADEMIC REJECTION Rejection can also happen online or in academics—being ignored in group chats, not making the team, or missing out on a school. Acknowledge the disappointment and remind them that setbacks happen to everyone. Support their emotions while encouraging a growth mindset: “You worked hard, and I’m proud of your effort.” • BUILD RESILIENCE Resilience comes from working through challenges, not avoiding them. By modelling calm, empathy, and problem-solving, you teach your child to face rejection with confidence. With your support, they’ll grow stronger, more self-aware, and better prepared for future challenges. Dr Danielle Grey is a Clinical Psychologist and the Clinical Director for the Purple House Clinic, Birmingham. The clinic is based in Coleshill and offers private psychological health care. For more information visit www.purplehouseclinic.co.uk or call 0121 820 7851. 23
Party Time! Ackers Adventure Make your child’s birthday unforgettable with a party at Ackers! The most popular option is to book your main activity (usually 1 hour 30 minutes) and then add on 30 minutes of tobogganing or a round of disc golf afterwards! Choose from climbing, canoeing, kayaking, bushcraft, archery, orienteering, bellboating, skiing, tubing, tobogganing, disc golf, tower drop and zip wire. www.ackers-adventure.co.uk Solihull Play Town We offer exclusive use birthday parties at Solihull Play Town. You will have a member of staff available to help you organise your day, exclusive 90 min play session for up to 20 children, Mini Disco, Party Invitations, a free return visit for the Birthday Child and free jugs of squash. Catering is available from our café or you can bring your own food. www.solihullplaytown.co.uk Airhop Trampoline Parks Birthdays just got bouncy. Lots of different packages available to enjoy one of these trampoline parks with your friends. Discounts available for weekday parties. www.airhop.co.uk Fired Crafts We put the ART back into Party. Let them get creative with our pottery party. We come to you with all that is needed for them to make a mini masterpiece and return up to 2 weeks later with their gift wrapped party bags with the finished piece inside. Plus a FREE personalised birthday plate for the lucky Birthday Boy or Girl! www.firedcrafts.com Raring2go! PARTIES 24 raring2go.co.uk Team Super Sports Give them the ultimate sports party! Get in touch with the team to start building your child’s dream party. With access to first class facilities and excellent coaches, we can arrange a sports party to meet any/all requirements. www.teamsupersports.co.uk Mini Mugs Funhouse From the moment you step through the doors you’ll be immersed in a world of joy and excitement. Our expert team ensures that every detail is organised from lively themed decorations to mouth-watering treats. Join us for a party filled with joy and laughter making memories that last a lifetime. Recommended age is up to 6 years old. www.minimugsfunhouse.com
Hatton Adventure World To provide you with the maximum flexibility and choice for your party we have options ranging from Party Venue hire to just admission for the Adventure World at a discounted party price. All party bookings include all day access to Hatton Adventure World for you and your guests, downloadable party invitations, a birthday card for the birthday child with a £5 Hatton voucher (£10 for Members), a pot of animal feed, per paying child (value £1) and access to Super Slide Mania. www.adventure.hattonworld.com The Chocolate Shed Celebrate your child’s birthday this year with a fun, creative and yummy(!) chocolate-making party at The Chocolate Shed. Suitable for children of all ages. Party-goers get to design, create and decorate chocolate pizzas, frogs, pictures, bars or truffles to take home and enjoy. Parties tailored to suit your child’s age & hobbies that will make their chocolate-y dreams come true. Tel: 01564 794718 www.thechocolateshed.com Raring2go! PARTIES 25
Help your child learn to read in 30 days for FREE with Reading Eggs! Created by experts and loved by over 20 million children worldwide, Reading Eggs is designed to develop early essential literacy skills such as phonics, sight words and vocabulary, planting the foundation for a life-long love of reading. Here’s why you’ll love our programs: FREE 30-DAY TRIAL in 30 Days Learn to Read FREE! readingeggs.co.uk/bts15 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. Hundreds of fun learning games Exciting rewards keep your child motivated See results from just 15 minutes of play a day! Positive screen time that’s KidSAFE & Ad-free Automated progress reports Log in across multiple devices at the same time, with no restrictions!
Pre-School Stagecoach Stagecoach Mini Stages (for 2 -4 year olds) 45 Minute Classes are a fun and exciting way for you and your child to actively experience the performing arts in a comfortable, relaxed and safe environment. Contact: www.stagecoach.co.uk/solihull Drama Tots Imaginative play classes for Under 5s. Transport children into the wonderful world of their imagination using a combination of props, movement, puppets and music! Our lively classes engage children in both life and learning, increasing their understanding of the world, while developing personal skills such as confidence, self-awareness, communication, language and creative thinking. Rebecca@dramatots.co.uk, 07810815114 www.dramatots.co.uk Airhop Trampoline Park – Toddler Takeover Toddler Takeover is for kids ages 1 year to 6 years only so they can jump to their heart’s content in a 100% safe environment. Includes access to the main court, dodgeball courts, basketball court and multi-sports pitch. Extra toys, ride-ons and bubble time at the end of each session. www.airhop.co.uk Solihull Young Dancers Ballet classes for children aged from 2 ½ years and tap classes from 4 years on. Our lessons focus on strong technique whilst retaining an element of fun to keep the pupils engaged at all times. Contact: kate@solihullyoungdancers.co.uk / 07722 732678 www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk Raring2go! PRE-SCHOOL Diamond Swim Academy Our focus is on quality rather than quantity and, therefore, our classes have no more than six pupils. Our swimming lessons are open to anyone from the age of 2.5 upwards. Contact: www.diamondswimacademy.co.uk 27
Raring2go! PUZZLE REINDEER SANTA STOCKING CARDS TINSEL PANTOMIME CAROLS DECORATIONS CRACKERS TREE TURKEY DECEMBER SNOWMAN CHRISTMAS SLEIGH PRESENTS NATIVITY Christmas Wordsearch 28 raring2go.co.uk
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Raring2go! COMPETITIONS A chance to WIN! 30 raring2go.co.uk West Midlands Safari Park Win a family ticket to West Midlands Safari Park’s Spooky Spectacular Closing date: 19 October 2025 Festive Gift Fair Win a pair of tickets for the Festive Gift Fair on 13 or 14 November at the NEC Birmingham Closing date: 27 October 2025 Touchwood Shopping Centre Win a £50 Touchwood Gift Card Closing date: 7 November 2025 PLAY @ Lower Drayton Farm Win a PLAY@ ticket for 4 people to visit Lower Drayton Farm over the next 12 months Closing date: 16 November 2025
Raring2go! COMPETITIONS Competition Winners 31 Sleeping Beauty – Belgrade Panto Win a family ticket to see Sleeping Beauty at The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry Closing date: 10 November 2025 Enter these and many more competitions online at raring2go.co.uk. Make sure you select where you are to see competitions in your local area. COMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONS: Enter the competitions online at www.raring2go.co.uk/ solihull/competitions. The winner will be the first correct entry or entries drawn at random. No cash alternative. The winner will be notified by phone or email. Full terms and conditions are available online at www.raring2go.co.uk/competition-terms. Silverstone Festival: Carole Littlehales, Louise Mussard, Hazel Cashmore, Clare Shergold, Amy King-Lee Ironbridge Gorge Museums: Amy Gamble Lower Drayton Farm: Charlotte, 5, Dorridge Primary School Wistow Maze: Liam Hanrahan, 6, Our Lady of the Wayside School and Alfie Seeley, 6, Valley Primary School Mini Valley Kids: Joshua, 3 and Lottie Coak, 1, Fieldhouse Nursery, Kenilworth
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