Raring2go!

SUTTON COLDFIELD HALLOWEEN EVENTS P12-13 CLUBS & CLASSES P5-11 CHRISTMAS EVENTS P22-27 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk AUTUMN 2023

Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 2 raring2go.co.uk

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4 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WELCOME Autumn is Here...with piles crisp leaves, conkers and pumpkins. Half term almost upon us, Halloween, Bonfi re night and p then Christmas there is plenty to look forward to over the p coming months. We have some great events and activities to go to plus lots of Fab clubs and classes for the children to p join. Hope you have a fun fi lled Autumn and a magical Christmas ! . 07929 656748 Penny.beddows@raring2go.co.uk Penny X Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date all year with your local #gotoguide for families Facebook: Raring2gosuttoncoldfi eld Website Member E-newsletter emailed monthly with latest offers and events Download vouchers and save £££’s Access all our online competitions with great prizes to be won Become a Join today by visiting www.raring2go.co.uk Copyright © 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 & retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Requests for permission or further information should be addressed to the publishers. All information in this magazine is published in good faith and cannot be reproduced without prior written permission.Whilst the publisher makes every effort to ensure that the businesses which are featured in this magazine are of the highest quality, we do not guarantee the services and products from any businesses featured. Printed by Gemini Print. We take the time to be sure that you get the best possible eyecare and advice. Remember children get free NHS eye tests while they are under 16 and 16 to 18 if in full time learning. The optometrists, Tony and Callum, tailor their eye examinations to the needs of every age group. We take a special interest in reading difficulties and the management of ‘short sightedness’ (myopia). We also provide emergency eye care, retinal photography and CT scanning of the eyes. 28 Walmley Road, B76 1QN Your local family run opticians please call or email any enquiries Tel. 0121 351 2344 or cmorriswalm@gmail.com WALMLEY ROAD FISH & CHIPS THE FOX OPTICIAN

5 Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES REGISTERED What our parents say... "The tutors are so wonderful, they are professional, and you can see how much they care about the children". Jane Willis "Sam and his team have been fantastic! The tutors who have worked with my son have been supportive, inspiring and compassionate. The sessions are very well run, with very small groups. I have been really impressed with my son’s progress". Fiona Wilson "In the words of my 10 year old daughter “I have learnt more from Mark and Heather during the last few months than a year in school!” Inspiring teachers, fun sessions and great resources. Thanks Sam and the team". Naveed Mohammed BOOK YOUR CHILD'S FREE ASSESSMENT TODAY SAVE OVER 20% ON YOUR FEES AND GET YOUR 1ST SESSION FREE! *Not the normal small print. We are extremely confident that your child will love our tuition, so following your free assessment you can decide THEN if you wish to sign up. The first session free is available for all new customers signing up and quoting Raring2Go. Over 20% off fees is available for new customers signing up for a full membership for two sessions per week. We also have offers for people who wish to have one session per week. You are protected by our no-risk two-week guarantee. Check out the front page for more information about our outstanding tuition

6 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES AS SEEN ON rugbytots.co.uk The world’s favourite rugby play programme MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN! TRY RUGBYTOTS Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email. 0345 313 0803 matthew@rugbytots.co.uk FREE TASTER SESSIONS AVAILABLE! To book a space, contact matthew@rugbytots.co.uk Make your child’s development more fun! Our fun, structured play sessions take children on a journey of sporting imagination with engaging and energetic coaches supporting them every step of the way whilst teaching how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team. 3 week trial for £12 referencing the code R2G *subject to availability. S4 Swim School have been providing the service of swimming lessons to thousands of children and adults for over a decade. Lessons run at many great pools during term time and school holidays. • Small groups • Online personal member area • Term plans available to download • Personal swimmer achievement records • Fast progression through groups f: @s4swimschool s4swimschool.uk New_NOV_2022_Mag_ad129x89Ad.indd 2 28/11/2022 10:42

7 Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES KOMBATKIDS LITTLE SUTTON PRIMARY SCHOOL To register text: child name / class location t: 07730 899722 e: info@kombatkids.com w: www.kombatkids.com f: www.facebook.com/kombatkids WELCOMING NEW BEGINNERS AT TUESDAY 3.45-4.45PM / 5.15-6.15PM The Right Choice! First 3 classes FREE! Worcester Road, Mere Green, Sutton Coldfield. B75 5NL ALDRIDGE CHURCH CENTRE 14 The Green, Aldridge, WS9 8NH MONDAY 5.15-6.15PM ALL SAINTS CHURCH CENTRE Belwell Lane, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield.B74 4TR FRIDAY 5.45-6.45PM / SATURDAY 8.55-9.55AM NEW OSCOTT PRIMARY SCHOOL Markham Road, New Oscott, Sutton Coldfield. B73 6QR FRIDAY 3.45-4.45PM 1992-2022 DEANERY C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL THE SANCTUARY 14 Fox Hollies Rd, Walmley Sutton Coldfield. B76 2RD Tangmere Drive, Castle Vale. B35 7PX MONDAY 5.30-6.30PM / WEDNESDAY 5.30-6.30PM FRIDAY 5.30-6.30PM

8 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES SATURDAY SUCCESS SCHOOL Believe Achieve CaCall Jane for your A ur Assessment 07767 860 177 or e @sky.com 0 177 or ema sky.com o emaiil Janemason@sky.co n@s 86 www.sa ysc olsuccess.co.uk aturdayschoo uk ayschoolsuccess.co ww Taught by Qualified Teachers and START EARLY 11 + TUTORING FOR 2024 EXAMSEYF, KEY STAGE 1 AND 2 rch, dist Churc Streetly Methodis h y, B74 3EH Thornhill Rd, Streetly, EVER TUTORING ni Saturday Morning Classes Beautiful pole and aerial dance studio in Coleshill offering kids (from age 4), teens and adults classes. ËAerial Silks ËAerial Hoop ËPole Fitness Ë Gymnastics ËAerial Yoga Call 07803 043933 or visit: www.addictivefitness.co.uk

9 Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES like listening, sharing, taking turns and teamwork are conscientiously woven into a involving programme that places as much emphasis on simple learning concepts like colours and numbers as it does on fi ne-tuning a child’s basic balance, agility and coordination. A very level playing fi eld! We recognise that every child is an individual, and feel that children develop their skills best when they are playing with other kids of a similar age and ability. As such, Little Kickers separate kids into four distinct age groups, which encourage each child to maximise their involvement and development potential. In summary, the real joy of our 4 pronged approach (Little Kicks, Junior, Mighty and Mega Kickers) is that we can offer a gently staggered learning environment for all our students, an enjoyable yet challenging pre-school football programme that is safe and always stays strictly within the student’s comfort zone. ‘Play Not Push’ – a positive, fun-fi lled pre-school football programme executed in a friendly, pressurefree environment. Little Kickers is the world’s biggest pre school football programme, and been running in Sutton Coldfi eld for 10 years. Guided by the likes of FA qualifi ed coaches, nursery school teachers, child health specialists and pro-active parents, the Little Kickers programme (age 1.5 - 8) is an ever-evolving quest to teach fundamental football techniques & elementary life skills in a vibrant, group play environment. Invaluable social skills Tuesdays @ Streetly Community Centre Saturdays @ The Streetly Academy Saturdays & Sundays @ Coppice Primary School (Sutton Coldfi eld) Sundays @ Collingwood Community Centre (Great Barr) For more information and to book your class get in touch! Littlekickers.co.uk 07545236917 westmidlands@littlekickers.co.uk f @littlekickersWestMidlands l @littlekickersfc A fun fi led introduction to football for Children aged 18 months to 8 years! Little Kickers offers kids the perfect combination of learning and fun! We are running classes at a number of venues in your area, contact us for further information. New Venues Saturday - St Francis School , Aldridge. Sunday - Streetly Centre.

JUNIOR TENNIS 2023 FREE TASTER SESSION NOW AVAILABLE JUST LET US KNOW IN ADVANCE WHICH DAYS YOU WANT. CONTACT CHRIS FOR COSTS SATURDAY Contact Chris Priddle to enrol on 07948 801210 email cdpriddle@hotmail.com HIGHBRIDGE ROAD, WYLDE GREEN, SUTTON COLDFIELD B73 5QB MONDAY 5.00PM – 6.00PM All ages all abilities 9.00AM – 12.00 NOON Mini Tennis for 4yrs to 10yrs Full Court Sessions for 10yrs to 18yrs INDOOR COURTS AVAILABLE 2 PERMANENT AND 2 TEMPORARY 10 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES Parent and baby / toddler classes available at Wilnecote High School Tinkers green road, Wilnecote , Tamworth B77-5LF After School Mon, Tue, Wed & Thurs and Sat Morning 4-16 yrs All abilities New Hall Primary School Langley Hall Drive, Sutton ColdÀ eld, B75 7NQ. DON’T FORGET Put your clocks back 29th October at 2am An extra hour in bed YIPPEE!

11 Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES ÞŨƪƎ ĉķļœĐɾƖ ėĐƪĉíƢļŨŞ ļƖ ļŞ Ɩíįė ķíŞĐƖ ǂļƢķ ƪƖɊ Øė ŨŞœLj ƪƖė ƍƪíœļįļėĐ ƢėíĉķėƎƖɋ ǂŨƎŐļŞİ ļŞ ƖŜ휜 İƎŨƪƋƖ Ũį ƪƋ ƢŨ Ǫ ĉķļœĐƎėŞɊ /LJƋėĉƢ ǂėėŐœLj įėėĐĈíĉŐɋ ƢėƎŜœLj íƖƖėƖƖŜėŞƢƖɋ íŞĐ ĉŨŞƖļƖƢėŞƢ Ƌėíĉė Ũį ŜļŞĐɊ z á Xz I È« k³ z( n(x0«0 , " ;$3/ / 2 / ,$2 "2 ªÈ nXIX0( Á0 !R0«³ ³x nn J« Ȩ³ I Ȩ Á ה !RXn(«0z ††Ç miMIU@]Umpm qllUIq]q^ mqiialp Rla^ lMIMipUa_ pa yM@l ‹ 0 ^@pTm @_K _S]UmT Boldmere Ballet School and Sutton Stage School Whether you are 2 or 72, we have a class for you! Pre-School Ballet and Dance - 4pm Fridays Tap, Contemporary Jazz, Theatre Craft - Ages 4+ Saturday mornings Royal Academy Classical Ballet - Ages 4+ Weekdays Arobic Dance - Ages 5+ Fridays Adult Classes in Ballet, Contemporary Jazz and Tap - Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays Established, famly run, friendly school - all ages and abilities welcome. Classes available for the once a week student and those who wish to take their dancing further. EXAMS - FESTIVALS - SHOWS 07932 065 949 jane@theatredance.co.uk www. theatredance.co.uk

SEPTEMBER From 30th September PYO Pumpkins @ Lower Drayton Farm Every weekend then daily from 14 – 31 Oct. Find your perfect pumpkin before carving in the NEW indoor carving barn. With pumpkin games, a spooky walk, friendly animals, and the chance to pick sweetcorn, carrots & potatoes it’s a great start to Halloween! lowerdraytonfarm.co.uk/pumpkins OCTOBER 14 Oct - 5 Nov Halloween events at Little Owl Farm Park Whether you want a day full of Halloween themed fun, or to enjoy the beauty of Autumn at the farm whilst choosing your pumpkin, we’ve got something for everyone this October. 14 - 15 & 21 - 22 Oct: Pumpkin picking. 27 Oct: Pumpkin Tots Friday. 28 Oct - 5 Nov: Spooktacular half term-fun. littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/october-events-2023 21 Oct - 5 Nov Spooky Spectacular at WMSP Spooky explorers will need to help locate the missing potion ingredients in the free Spooky Trail, to win a delicious treat! Meet Mitzy Monster and see Patch the Scarecrow again, along with their creators, the Silly Scientists! Watch brand new show hosted by Mitzy. Optional extra: Spooky VR Ride. Open late on 28 - 29 October for extra spookiness. (+ Monster Ball on 28 Oct for over 18yrs) wmsp.co.uk/wmsp-events/ spooky-spectacular 21,22, 28 29, 30 31 Oct Ashend House children’s Farm Family Friendly Event Suitable for young children, pick a pumpkin carve it with us or at home ,sweety treat, meet the wizard& creepy critters spooky crafts and a prize for kids in costumes . Upgrade to a combi ticket for The Big Play Barn www.childrensfarm.co.uk 22 - 30 Oct Pumpkin Smash Bash at Drayton Manor Enjoy over 100 rides and attractions, plus the Castle of Spooks where you’ll meet Halloween characters and take part in spooky activities including scary stories, interactive games, and of course trick or treating! Some spooktacular entertainment all around the park too, with Rory’s Boo Bash and more! (+ Haunted Manor 28-31 Oct for the bigger kids! Includes a spectacularly spooky fi reworks fi nale) draytonmanor.co.uk/theme-park/events 28 - 31 Oct Severn Valley Railway 28 - 29 Oct: Christmas gift fayre! 28 - 31 Oct: Ghost Trains, Start your adventure at Kidderminster Station. Once aboard, hold on tight as the train roars away, 12 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON

passing through haunted stations on the way to Arley – the home of the living dead! But beware, those things that go bump in the night are not just outside the windows… (+ Scream Trains: a later option for over 18yrs) svr.co.uk/all-events 28 - 31 Oct Halloween Nights at Black Country Living Museum Prepare to be spooked as the Museum opens its doors to little devils and ghouls! Bring the whole family along to enjoy a night of trick or treats around our historic shops and houses and experience thrilling street entertainment. tickets.bclm.com/events 30 and 31 Oct Moor hall Hotel Disney Villains Halloween Afternoon Tea Being bad has never tasted so good! Sit down to a delicious afternoon tea at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa this Halloween for our new spooktacular event. Our live performers will perform songs and dances from Disney’s most notorious villains. Arrival time: 12pm for 12.30pm start Price: £32 per adult | £22 per child These events will sell out - so book early! Book online or contact our events team on 0121 308 3751 or email events@ moorhallhotel.co.uk 30 Oct - 3 Nov Thinktank Spooky Stay and Play: A spooky sensory play session for little ones aged 18months - 3years. Fright at the Museum: A monstrous showfull to the brim with freaky facts and spooky science. Spooky Science Family Night: Explore the museum after dark! Book ahead for this one. birminghammuseums.org. uk/thinktank/whats-on Wander through the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and encounter mythical beasts, fairies, trolls, witches, wizards, and more! birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk 28 Oct - 5 Nov 23 13 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON

HOLIDAY CLUBS 30 Oct – 3 Nov Aspire Sports Active camp , Sutton Coldfi eld 15 % off when you quote Oct23SC , Bishop Vesey Grammar school, Activecamps.co.uk or call 0121 663 1082 30,31 Oct, 1,2,3 Nov Ackers Holiday Camp Activities each day will include 3 of : Skiing, Climbing, Canoeing, Bell boating, Kayaking, Archery, Tubing, Disc golf, Bushcraft, Zip wire, Fan descender. Ackers-adventure.co.uk Sutton Tennis Club Autumn Tennis Camp 30th October to 3rd November 9 am to 3 pm Cost per day: £20 for Club members £23 for those on coaching programme £25 for others To Book call Chris 07948801210 chrispriddle@hotmail.com 1 Nov Addictive Fitness Workshop, Coleshill October half term circus and aerial camp 10am - 3pm To book 07803 043933 or visit www.addictive.co.uk S4 Swim school Swim intensives over the Autumn holidays at Castle Vale and Tamworth pools Visit www.s4swimschool.uk/swimintensives 30 Oct - 3 Nov Fun Fest Holiday Club, Sutton Coldfi eld, 3 -12 years olds Deanery School and Hillwest Primary School www.fun-fest.co.uk 14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! HOLIDAY CLUBS

15 Raring2go! HOLIDAY CLUBS For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 0121 663 1979 Choice of venues and activities *Offer ends 5pm Friday 27th October Ofsted registered Action-packed childcare this October Half Term Open from8am - 6pm BOOK ONLINE For more info and to book your place visit activecamps.co.uk or call 0121 663 1082 Sutton ʶˢ˟˗Ѓ ˘˟˗ Grammar School 15% OFF* with code OCT23SC Monday 30th October - Friday 3rd November There is a 10% discount available for multiple siblings booking on. 2023 TENNIS CAMPS! JUST LET US KNOW IN ADVANCE WHICH DAYS YOU WANT. CONTACT CHRIS COOK FOR COSTS To book on to any of the above, please contact Chris Priddle on 07948801210 or email at cdpriddle@hotmail.com for more information. HIGHBRIDGE ROAD, WYLDE GREEN, SUTTON COLDFIELD B73 5QB Autumn Camps The camps will be 30th October to 3rd November 9 am to 3 pm Cost per day: £20 for Club members £23 for those on coaching programme £25 for others

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17 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 01543 306168 admissions@lichfieldcathedralschool.com Green Gables, Longdon WS15 4PT | The Palace, The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LH Pre-School & Juniors Open Mornings 9am to 11am Longdon WS15 4PT Friday 10 November & Friday 23 February Meet our wonderful children & outstanding teachers Small class sizes Challenging curriculum including sport, art, dance, drama & music Before & after school care Minibus shuttle from Lichfield LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL SCHOOL Academic & musical excellence for boys & girls aged 21/2 to 18 Championing glorious individuals since the 12th century Forest Tots Forest adventures for under 5s whatever the weather! Rhyme Time Toddler For information and to book your place contact Amy on 01543 306168 or a.young@lichfieldcathedralschool.com Mini Voices! MONDAYS TUESDAYS FRIDAYS FREE fun and relaxed sing-along for under 5s and parents Music group for under 5s and parents Resource Hut, Beacon Park 10am to 11am Longdon Green WS15 4PT Longdon Green WS15 4PT 9.30am to 10.30am 10am to 11am £40 per term (10-12 sessions) £40 per term or £4.50 per session FIRST SESSION FREE! LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

Walmley nursery is now an Outstanding Nursery 18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! NURSERY

MEMBERSHIPS FROM £30! THE PERFECT GIFT! BIRMINGHAMBOTANICALGARDENS.ORG.UK TREAT YOUR LOVED ONES TO THE GIFT OF THE GARDENS THIS CHRISTMAS & ALL YEAR ROUND! 19 Raring2go! PLACES TO GO Funded by: birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank • • 4k Planetarium • Outdoor Science Garden

NOVEMBER 30,31 Oct, 1,2,3 November Ackers Holiday Camp Activities each day will include 3 of : Skiing, Climbing, Canoeing, Bell boating, Kayaking, Archery, Tubing, Disc golf, Bushcraft, Zip wire, Fan descender. Ackers-adventure.co.uk 11 Nov Festival of Light at Black Country Living Museum Experience the joy and wonder of Diwali and join in the celebration. See the Museum transformed after dusk and discover sound, light and dance experiences inspired by South Asian music and Bollywood glamour. tickets.bclm.com/events 3 - 5 Nov Tipping the Light at Thinktank Family fun to include a fantastic live show all about the science of light. birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank/whats-on 24 Nov - 24 Dec Santa Safari at West Midland Safari Park Join us for a magical festive day out for the whole family, combining a four-mile winter Safari and a visit to Santa in his Grotto. Optional Extra: VR Sleigh ride. Plus between 24 Nov - 7 Jan: Safari Skating - join us for our brand-new festive experience. Safari Skating allows you to try out your skating skills on our very own Glice® rink. wmsp.co.uk/wmsp-events/santa/ 24 Nov - 31 Dec (selected dates) Christmas Wonderland at Drayton Manor Make unforgettable festive memories for the whole family at Drayton Manor’s ALL NEW Christmas Wonderland. The ultimate destination for family Christmas fun featuring ALL NEW festive shows and attractions, Thomas Land rides & shows, plus over 500 animals in our fantastic zoo. draytonmanor.co.uk/events/christmas 20 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON

21 Raring2go! THEATRE LISTINGS This time of year there are always lots of family friendly shows at our local theatre. Here are some of our favourites. 25- 28 Oct Fiddler on the Roof Sutton Town Hall www.suttoncoldfi eldtownhall.com 9 -31 Dec Jack and the Beanstalk Sutton Town Hall www.suttoncoldfi eldtownhall.com 9 -23 Dec Nativity the Musical Sutton Ats Theatre www.suttonartsthaetre.co.uk 28 Nov- 9 Dec A Christmas Carol, Comedy Highbridge Theatre, Sutton Coldfi eld www.highbridgetheatre.co.uk 16 Nov- 30 Dec Motionhouse Starchiteds Save Santa! The Mac, Birmingham www.macbirmigham.co.uk 22-25 Nov Peter Pan the Musical The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham www.atgtickets.com 5- 31 Dec Peter Pan the Musical Old Rep, Birmingham www.oldrepthaetre.co.uk 14 Nov- 28 Jan The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe The Birmingham Rep www.birmingham-rep.co.uk 17 Oct-5 Nov Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Musical Birmingham Hippodrome www.birminghamhippodrome.com 11-24 Dec Dear Santa Birmingham Hippodrome www.birminghamhippodrome.com 16 Dec- 28 Jan Jack & The Beanstalk Birmingham Hippodrome www.birminghamhippodrome.com 24 Nov – 7 Jan Beauty and the Beast The Lichfi eld Garrick www.lichfi eldgarrick.com

22 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! READING Many parents become aware of their child’s dyslexia only when they start school, so we thought we’d offer some ideas to support young Ài>`iÀÃ Ü œ >Ài iÃà Vœ˜w`i˜Ì° i>À˜ˆ˜} ̜ Ài>` is hard work and can be quite daunting, often also tinged with the fear that once you can read, the Li`̈“i Ã̜Àˆià ܈ Ã̜«° iÀi >Ài ܓi ȓ«i ways to ensure that reading stays fun and feels >V ˆiÛ>Li° ÞÏi݈> “>Žià ˆÌ iÛi˜ >À`iÀ] Ü `œ ask for support, and look up information on The ÀˆÌˆÃ ÞÏi݈> čÃÜVˆ>̈œ˜ ÜiLÈÌi° œ˜½Ì vii that offering your child extra help is cheating or ÃÌ>ˆ˜} Ì iˆÀ i>À˜ˆ˜} ˆ˜ >˜Þ Ü>Þ° Allow your child to choose a book they want to read and let them start reading – genuinely allowing a child to choose (even if it is not what you would >Ûi V œÃi˜ vœÀ Ì i“® ˆÃ > È}˜ˆwV>˜Ì v>V̜À ˆ˜ Ì iˆÀ investment in learning. Read together, and read at your child’s pace, not your own. When they make a mistake give your child time to have another try, but then say the word yourself and allow them to carry œ˜ ‡ Ì ˆÃ Žii«Ã Ì i yœÜ }œˆ˜}° Supporting Dyslexic or NGUU EQPƂFGPV TGCFGTU Take breaks and only read in short, achievable blocks. Also take time to look at and discuss the pictures in the book – visual literacy is important too. Remember, learning to read is not a race against other classmates, so ignore the boasting parents in the playground! Try to think of your role at home as to ensure that they keep enjoying books and stories. For an older child, make use of audio books too; if there is a class book and your child struggles to read it, download the audio version. They will keep up with the class, be able to join in discussions about the haracters, and plot and c g the story of the book will knowing ve the anxiety associated with the remov enges of reading. challe Look out for Super Readable books, as those by Barrington Stoke. such These are printed a little differently, with good quality paper, proper spacing and paragraph breaks too. And they only work with the very best writers working today, so you will also get a great story. All the photos on these pages are of super-readable Barrington Stoke books for readers of all ages. There are more tips on supporting dyslexic readers on our website, so check out our blog on this! By Tamsin Rosewell, Kenilworth Books e d

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2,3, 9,10, 16, 17, 23 and 24 Dec Ash End House Children’s Farm And The Big Play Barn Christmas Santa will be greeting children for a cosy chat in his grotto on the farm There are farm animals in a traditional Nativity in our stables www.childrensfarm.co.uk 16 , 23, 24 Dec Moor Hall Hotel Afternoon Tea with Singing Santa & Mrs Claus Enjoy a deliciously festive Afternoon Tea at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa with Santa and Mrs Claus! A new event for 2023, the afternoon includes a Christmas story read by Santa, singalongs to Jingle Bells, Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer, Let it Snow and more, snow machine and lots of magical photo opportunities. Time: 1pm, Afternoon Tea served at 1:30pm Price: £37 per adult | £28 per child (12 and under) christmas@moorhallhotel.co.uk. 25 Nov - 24 Dec Christmas at Severn Valley Railway Santa Trains: Every weekend 25 Nov - Christmas Eve inc 22 Dec. Enjoy a magical journey to Arley to see our ALL-NEW Christmas Show, as Jingle and Jangle the mischievous Elves return for more festive fun, with Mrs Claus and Father Christmas too! The Enchanted Express: Every weekend DECEMBER 2 - 24 Dec. Inspired by the classic poem ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas, join train driver Luna Loco, Pip the Christmas Mouse, Brigadier Dimple the Toy Soldier, Violet the Sugarplum Fairy, Mama Lumi the Post ELf and Father Christmas himself, on a magical steam train journey. Carol Trains: 16, 22 & 23 Dec. Get Christmas off to a traditional start with an evening of carols & festive songs. svr.co.uk/all-events 25 Nov - 24 Dec Santa Hunts, Black Country Living Museum Weekends, plus 21 & 22 Dec. Santa is making a welcome return to the Museum this Christmas. And this year it looks like he needs your help! Step up and join our elves to get Santa ready for the big day. Plus Glad Tidings on Fri & Sat evenings 8 - 23 Dec: Gather around our open fi res, sing along with traditional carolers and Fifties favourites, and enjoy traditional Christmas treats to get into the festive mood. bclm.com/ christmas 25 Nov, 1 - 24 Dec Chronicles of Dudley Zoo See Santa in his Grotto set within the walls of the 11th Century Dudley Castle and see Santa’s Reindeer as they prepare for their busiest night of the year before taking a walk aroundthezoo. dudleyzoo.org.uk/eventswhats-on-at-dzc-santas-grotto Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 24 raring2go.co.uk

25 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Tel. 0121 321 6078

17 Dec Moor Hall Hotel Breakfast or Afternoon Tea with The Frozen Sisters Make Christmas extra special for your little ones by coming along to enjoy Breakfast with Anna & Elsa in the run up to Christmas. A new event for 2023! Enjoy a delicious Continental and full English breakfast at Moor Hall with Arendelle’s queen and princess before they start on their next Frozen adventure. There will be lots of photo opportunities and sing-a-longs to Do You Wanna Build a Snowman, Ring In The Season, Let it Go, along with some Christmas favourites! Arrival time: 8.30am, 8:45am start Dates: Sunday 17th December Price: £29 per adult | £19 per child Arrival time: 1:00pm arrival, Afternoon Tea served at 1:30pm Price: £37 per adult | £28 per child Book online or contact our events team at events@moorhallhotel.co.uk or call 0121 308 3751. 2 - 24 Dec Jingle Ville @ Lower Drayton FarmSelected dates throughout December. Step into a world straight out of a storybook as you explore the charming town of JingleVille – the perfect backdrop for your family’s Christmas adventure. Discover hidden treasures, encounter delightful characters, meet friendly animals and make memories in this magical land before enjoying the indoor playbarns and animal zones of the farm’s PLAY@ attraction. playatthefarm.co.uk/christmas 10 Dec Aston Alive, Christmases Past. Join us at Aston Hall, this most magical time of the year to celebrate the festive season! Meet our cast of historical characters and discover how they celebrate Christmas. birminghammuseums.org.uk/events/astonalive-christmases-past 31 Dec Family NYE Party at West Midland Safari Park Bring in the New Year k to the sounds of our resident DJ, a brilliant balloon drop, and the chimes of Big Ben before dancing the night away until 1.00am! The Family New Year’s Party begins at 7:30pm and there will also be a children’s entertainer for the little ones! wmsp.co.uk/ wmsp-events/family-nye 31 Dec New Years Celebrations at Drayton Manor Choose between: Illusion Show: Experience unbelievable close up magic and slight of hand, while experiencing an indulgent 3-course festive fayre. Throughout dinner you will be entertained at your table followed by an Illusion Show that will blow you away. The evening will conclude with a family friendly disco. Fascination & Enchantment: Enjoy the evening with your young families with table magic captivating for all ages! Plus be fascinated by face painting of your choice, balloon modelling, party games and action dances along with a 3-course festive fayre draytonmanor.co.uk/leisure/festive-events/ new-years-eve-celebration JANUARY 6 - 7 Jan Winter Steam Gala at SVR A brand new event for 2024; not to be missed! Steam-heated carriages, breathtaking landscapes and steam locomotives – the perfect antidote to a cold winter’s day! svr.co.uk/event/winter-steam-gala-2024 27 Jan Lichfi eld Cathedral, Chorister for a day, FREE Workshop for Boys & Girls 6-10 Years old ,9.30 – 3pm www.lichfi eldcathedralschool.com bookingis essential 01543 306168 26 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON

27 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON

28 raring2go.co.uk Helping Kids Shine The TASTY, EASY way to get vitamins into little people We all want our little ones to shine in life! Haliborange Softies are a great way to support your child’s growth and development, providing some essential nutrients they need every day. Haliborange softies are available in a range of formats and flavours to ensure your little ones top up their vitamins every day without fuss. Scan to learn more about Haliborange

29 Raring2go! PARENTS Raring2go! COMPETITIONS To enter visit raring2go.co.uk Make sure you select your local area Raring2go! LOVE THE EARTH Raring2go! Sutton Coldfi eld FOR SALE Would you like to be your own boss and set your own hours? Having spent the last twelve years running Raring2go! Sutton Coldfi eld, it is with a heavy heart, that it is time for me to move on. I have loved working for myself, which has allowed me to attend school events and has eliminated the need for childcare. Taking all school holidays off, and planning my magazine publications around my family life has suited me perfectly. Supported by an army of over 32 editors around the country, along with an incredibly helpful HQ and IT support, has really taken all the pressure off, and has been invaluable. If you would like to run your own business from home and set your own hours, have some sales experience and love talking to people, then this could be for you! Want to fi nd out if this could be for you ? please call me on 07929 656748 or email on penny.beddows@raring2go.co.uk

Raring2go! COMPETITIONS 30 raring2go.co.uk To enter visit raring2go.co.uk Make sure you select your local area WORDSEARCH ANSWERS: Acorn, Apple, Jacket, Leaf, pumpkin, rake, school and hay. NAME THE ANIMALS: Across: 1. Lion, 3. Crocodile, 5. Giraffe. Down: 1. Leopard, 2. Elephant, 4, Zebra. 1 4 2 3 S C L 5 1 G Z E WORDSEARCH Find the Autumn related words Answers at the bottom of the page. No cheating! Find the animals… 1 3 1 2 4 5

31 WIN tickets to Jingle Ville @ Lower Drayton FarmWe’ve teamed up with Staffordshire farm attraction PLAY@ Lower Drayton Farm to give away a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) to its NEW magical Christmas adventure, Jingle Ville - worth up to £120! The experience will include a twinkly tractor ride to the festive town of Jingle Ville where an elf guide will take you on a magical journey; watching a fun Christmas fi lm, creating Christmas crafts, writing a letter to the North Pole, enjoying photo opps with Santa, getting a gift from Santa’s toyshop,making your very own cuddly toy to take home and enjoying a delicious milkshake (for the kids) and hot drink (for the grownups). Your visit will also include access to PLAY@’s massive indoor playbarns, outdoor play and undercover animal zones making this an epic family day out. Closing date: Sun 12 November 2023 To enter online visit Raring2go.co.uk Make sure you select your local area Win a pair of tickets to the Festive Gift Fair at the NEC , Birmigham Thursday 16th – Sunday 19th November 2023 THE BIGGEST & MOST LIVELY INDOOR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING FAIR IN THE HEART OF THE COUNTRY IS BACK! .... BARGAINS, MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT AND SO MUCH CHOICE! Get your festive preparations off to a fl ying start at the ever-popular 4-day FESTIVE GIFTFAIR this November. Now in its 27th fabulous year, it remains one of the most popular Christmas Shopping events in the UK for a good reason! The Fair will be bursting at the seams with a colourful, mix of unusual stocking fi llers and presents, festive food and drink and great Christmas decorations for your home and garden. 325+ stalls all in one hall …. clever gift ideas for all ages and tastes … and lots of Special Show Offers! Join us with your friends and family for an inspiring and fun-fi lled day CHRISTMAS SHOPPING at the FESTIVE GIFTFAIR. www.festivegiftfair.co.uk Great value! - Advance adult tickets from just £7 (plus transaction fee) For list of stallholders, entertainment programme and visitor information, please visit www.festivegiftfair.co.uk Raring2go! COMPETITIONS Win Ash End Farm and Big Play Barn Combi Tickets 21,22, 28 29, 30 31 Oct. Ashend House children’s Farm Family Friendly Event Suitable for young children, pick a pumpkin carve it with us or at home ,sweety treat,meet the wizard& creepy critters spooky crafts and a prize for kids in costumes. Upgrade to a combi ticket for The Big Play Barn. www.childrensfarm.co.uk Win Family Ticket to Sutton Town Hall’s Christmas family Panto Jack and the Beanstalk 9 -31 Dec. Jack and the Beanstalk Sutton Town Hall www.suttoncoldfi eldtownhall.com

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