Raring2go! Taunton

TAUNTON GOOD FOOD FAMILY P2 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD LOVE TO VISIT P7 raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2024 BUTTLE CHRISTMAS APPEAL P19

3 Raring2go! Copyright © 2024 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.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 Group. 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 THIS? READ ARE Y every quarter… Dad and Mums local tho e tens of Well, so ar of ? DING YOU ds ousands arin R with business e tur a e to fe be sur ng2go! your Hello! Winter is a time for families to bond through activities, getting out & about and creating cherished memories together. In this issue, we’ve got lots of ideas to take you through the Winter months, making sure you enjoy every minute. On pages 4 & 5 there’s our seasonal Winter activities ideas and as always, there’s Raring2Grow, Raring2Read pages to offer suggestions of things to do with the kids.We hope you enjoy reading this edition as much as we did pulling it together.Wishing you all the best of the season! Best wishes The Raring2go! Team

10 fun things to do as Sleigh Ride: If available in your area, take a sleigh ride through snowy fields or a winter wonderland. It's a charming and festive way to experience the beauty of winter. Winter Nature Walk: Wrap up and take a nature walk in a nearby park or forest. The landscape can be enchanting, with snow-covered trees and a peaceful atmosphere. Ice Skating: Find a local outdoor ice skating rink and spend an afternoon gliding on the ice. Skating is a fun and active way to enjoy the winter weather together. Skiing or Snowboarding: Head to a nearby (indoor) ski slope and enjoy a day of skiing or snowboarding as a family. Whether you're beginners or seasoned pros, hitting the slopes can be a thrilling winter adventure. Build a Snowman: Embrace the winter weather by building a snowman together. Get creative with accessories like scarves, hats and buttons. It's a classic winter activity that brings joy to all ages.

a family this Winter Snowshoeing Adventure: Explore trails covered in snow by going snowshoeing. It's a great way to enjoy nature and get some exercise, and it's suitable for various skill levels. Winter Picnic: Pack a thermos with hot cocoa, prepare some winter snacks, and have a picnic in the snow. Find a scenic spot and enjoy the winter landscape around you. Snowball Fight and Fort Building: Engage in a friendly family snowball fight and get creative by building snow forts or snow sculptures. It's a playful way to enjoy the snow together. Winter Stargazing: On clear winter nights, bundle up in warm blankets and gaze at the stars. Use a stargazing app to identify constellations and enjoy the crisp winter air. Outdoor Winter Bonfire & Marshmallow Roast: If it's safe and allowed, set up an outdoor bonfire in the snow. Roast marshmallows, make s'mores, and enjoy the warmth of the fire while surrounded by a winter landscape.

6 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON

with Raring2 DEALS&DA Book Amazing Winte 2go! AYSOU er Attraction T o 6 TpU 7% p o 5 TpU Events&F 0% p 4 TpU off 5 TpU Festivals % off oT 45%off oT Theme Parks 50%off Z Theatre & Museums 67%off Zoos & Aquariums

8 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! THRILL OF THE THEATRE A trip to the theatre holds a truly unique and invaluable appeal for children, offering an enriching experience that far surpasses the passive nature of watching television. The live, interactive nature of theatre provides a great number of educational, emotional and dare we say developmental advantages that TV often struggles to replicate or come close to. Firstly, theatre is a sensory feast that engages multiple senses simultaneously. Children see the vibrant costumes, hear the live music, soak up the dialogue and feel the excitement in the air. This multisensory experience not only captivates their attention but it also acts to enhance their overall understanding and appreciation of the performance. In contrast, television, though visually stimulating, lacks the immediacy and immersive quality of a live theatre production. Signifiicangtly, attending a live performance encourages great social skills and etiquette in children. The theatre setting requires them to be attentive, considerate of others and follow certain behavioral norms and each of these contribute to the development of patience and respect. Interacting with fellow audience members and responding to the performers in real-time enhances their ability to engage in a shared cultural experience. It teaches them the importance of live social interaction, a skill that never demands enough emphasis in a world today that is dominated by screens. Theatre also sparks children's imagination and creativity in a way that television cannot. Witnessing live actors, set changes, and the transformation of characters on stage further encourages a deeper level of imaginative thinking. Children are prompted to fill in the gaps with their own interpretations, creating critical thinking skills and a sense of creativity that goes far beyond passive consumption. Additionally, live theatre provides a sense of connection and community. Shared laughter, gasps of surprise and applause create a more collective experience that unites people and brings them together. This shared sense of enjoyment and emotional engagement is a powerful aspect of theatre, promoting a sense of belonging and shared culture. While television has its merits, a family trip to the theatre offers a far more dynamic, interactive, and multi-sensory experience that contributes significantly to a child's cognitive, emotional, and social development. The magic of live performances ‘the smell of the greasepaint and the roar of the crowd’ has the potential to ignite a lifelong love for the arts and a deeper understanding of the world around them. With screens already dominating our lives in so many ways, isn’t it a nice thought that we still have a place we can go where we can excape and watch real drama, real comedy and real tragedy unfold. The Thrill of The Theatre: The smell of the greasepaint, the roar of the crowd

Raring2go! RARING2GROW Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Make your garden a Winter Wonderland Bird Feeding Extravaganza: Transform your garden into a winter haven for feathered friends. Let children create homemade bird feeders and hang them in key spots for easy birdwatching. Winter Planting Adventures: Engage kids in winter planting projects such as frost-resistant flowers like pansies and ever green shrubs. This will add a vivid burst of colour to the winter landscape. Festive Container Gardens: Encourage creativity and then design festive container gardens. Try to include winter flowering plants and seasonal decorations for an added touch of festive winter magic. Crafty Garden Markers: Continue the autumn tradition of crafting garden markers, using materials like wooden spoons or painted stones to label winter plants. Winter Veggie Patch: Grow cold-hardy vegetables like kale and spinach. Teach children the joys of winter gardening and the importance of seasonal produce. Winter Pruning Lessons: Teach the basic winter pruning techniques on dormant trees and shrubs. This will not only maintain plant health but also imparts valuable gardening skills to your eager students! Create Ice Decorations: Turn freezing temperatures into an artistic opportunity. Create ice decorations by filling moulds with water, adding berries or leaves, and freezing them to decorate the garden. Explore Winter Insects: Investigate winter insects. Lift rocks or logs to discover insects in their sneaky winter hideouts showcasing the great diversity of garden life in colder months. Winter Wildlife Tracking: Teach children about winter wildlife tracks. Identify footprints in the snow and discuss the animals that share the garden during this season. Fairy Tale Garden Storytelling: Spark imagination by weaving winter-themed stories that will encourage children to share tales about fairies, gnomes and magical creatures inhabiting the winter garden. Winter gardening with children transforms the garden into a veritable winter wonderland. By incorporating these engaging activities, you not only maintain the garden but also nurture a lifelong love for nature through gardening. Let the laughter of children touch the magic of winter in your garden, creating cherished memories that last well beyond the season. Raring2grow! Outdoor fun for budding green-fingers As winter arrives, family gardening fun takes on a magical quality. There are opportunities for children to engage in activities that help form strong connections with nature. Here are some delightful winter tasks to make the season even more enchanting for the whole family. 10 raring2go.co.uk

Raring2go! MAKE A PLANTER 11 Start by selecting a pallet in good condition, ensuring it's heat-treated (marked with "HT") to avoid harmful chemicals. Next, clean the pallet thoroughly with a brush and mild soap, letting it dry completely. Decide whether to keep the pallet whole or cut it down to size depending on your desired planter height. Sand down any rough edges to avoid splinters. If you’re looking to paint or stain, now is the time to apply your chosen finish and allow it to dry. Attach a weed barrier or landscape fabric to the back and sides of the pallet, stapling it securely in place.This will hold the soil in.Then, fill the sections between the slats with potting soil, pressing it down gently. Finally, plant your favourite herbs, flowers, or succulents into the soil-filled sections.Water the plants regularly and place your new pallet planter in a sunny spot.With minimal cost and effort, you've created a functional, stylish planter from a recycled material, giving your garden a sustainable touch. Make a Garden Planter out of used Pallets Creating a garden planter from a wooden pallet is an easy, eco-friendly project that repurposes old materials and adds rustic charm to your outdoor space.

Crafting Comfort: A beginners guide to knitting. Ready to get ‘hooked’? Knitting, with its rhythmic repetition and tactile satisfaction, has been a beloved craft for generations. Whether you're a novice or looking to rekindle your love for wool, here's a step-by-step guide on how to knit and create your cosy masterpieces. This is just an initial guide designed to get you started.... CASTING ON: The first step in knitting is to cast the wool onto the needle. This will provide the first row of stitches which is usually the bottom edge of the piece you’re knitting. Loop Knot: To start your first row of stitches you need to make a loop knot (slip knot) on the needle. Make the loop knot about 15 cm from the end of the wool. Insert the needle under the short length of the wool then draw the needle through the loop and tighten the knot. There are several methods used for casting on. Each method will produce a slightly different edge look. Below are three main methods. 1. The Thumb Method - Using One Needle: Place the needle in your right hand and wrap the wool from the ball around your left thumb, holding onto the wool with your left fingers. 2. Twist your left hand so that your thumb is facing you and point your first finger. Place the needle through the loop from front to back. 3. Remove your left thumb whilst pulling the wool down. This will close the loop. Repeat these steps until you have cast on the desired number of stitches. 4.Knitting On Method - Using Two Needles: Place the needle with the loop knot in your left hand. Then place the right hand needle through the loop, under the left hand needle as pictured. (below) Holding the wool from the ball in your right hand, place the wool around the point of the right hand needle and back under the point of the left hand needle - as for knitting. 5. Bring the right hand needle up from under the left hand needle and draw the wool up so there is a loop on the right hand needle. Place the left hand needle through the back of the loop on the right hand needle and remove the right hand needle thus leaving two loops on the left hand needle. Repeat these steps until you have cast on the desired number of stitches. Knitting is far more than a craft; it is a sensory pleasure. The gentle click of needles and the vibrant transformation of coloured wool thread into a warm item of hand made clothing. This is but a brief glimpse into knitting. Patience and a degree of perseverance are both parts of the knitting tool-kit. See online for endless guidance, techniques, patterns and free content. 13 Raring2go! CRAFT COMFORT

14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! NOURISHING OUR FUTURE In a world inundated with choices, ensuring our children receive the nutrition they need is paramount to their growth, development, and overall well-being. As parents, we play a pivotal role in shaping our children's dietary habits, laying the foundation for a lifetime of health. Here's why a balanced diet is crucial and how we, as carers, can make a positive impact. A balanced diet is like a full symphony of nutrients, with each element playing a unique role in supporting our children's health. From the essential vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables to the energy-providing goodness of whole grains and proteins, every component contributes to their physical and cognitive development. One of the keys to achieving a balanced diet is variety. Encourage your children to explore the colorful spectrum of fruits and vegetables, introducing them to a diverse range of flavors and textures. Make mealtime an adventure by involving them in selecting fresh produce and experimenting with new recipes. Whole grains should be the backbone of their diet, providing sustained energy and essential nutrients. Opt for whole grain bread, pasta, and rice over their refined counterparts to ensure a steady release of energy throughout the day. Protein is the building block of growth, and including a mix of lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy and plant-based sources will ensure your child receives the necessary amounts of Amino-acids for muscle development and overall health. Limiting sugary snacks and beverages is crucial in preventing the pitfalls of excessive sugar intake. Instead, encourage water as the primary beverage and use natural sweeteners like fruits to satisfy their sweet cravings. As parents, we need to lead by example. Children are the keenest of observers and by demonstrating our commitment to a well balanced diet, we instill in them the importance of making nutritious choices. Let's nourish our children's bodies and minds with the gift of a well-rounded and wholesome diet, ensuring a vibrant and healthy future for the next generation. Nourishing Our Future: Why a Balanced Diet for Children matters

15 Raring2go! RARING2MAKE Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make! Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make! Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make! Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make! Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make! Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make!Raring2make! Butternut Squash Stew with Curly Kale This is how you do it! 1. Add the oil to a large saucepan set over medium heat. 2. Add the onions, garlic and carrots and cook for about five minutes, until softened. 3. Stir in the turmeric, cinnamon and ginger and continue to cook for another minute until the spices become fragrant. 4. Turn the heat down to low and add in the lentils and passata, cooking for a further 15 minutes and stirring occasionally. (You may need to add a little more passata during cooking.) 5. Add the squash, black-eyed peas and stock to pan, then simmer for 30 minutes until the squash is tender. 6. Once the squash has been cooking for 20 minutes, steam the kale for about 10 minutes, either over the stew or in a separate pan, until slightly softened but still bright green. 7. Stir the kale into the squash and lentil mixture, then season to taste with a bit of salt and pepper. 8. Serve in bowls, either alone or with slices of crusty wholemeal baguette. Makes 2 Portions, Suitable for home freezing, Preparation 15 minutes, 50 minutes cooking time, 140 C°, 275 F°, Gas Mark 1 Ingredients 2 tbsp olive oil 1 onion (diced) 1 clove garlic (chopped) 1 carrot (diced) 1/2 tsp turmeric 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground ginger 50g red lentils 250ml passata 350g butternut squash (peeled & cubed) 1/2 400g can black-eyed beans 750ml vegetable stock 80g kale (shredded) Pinch of salt Pinch of pepper 2 slices wholemeal baguette. Savour the wintery symphony in a bowl that is butternut squash stew and curly kale. A medley of flavours, the sweet richness of butternut squash in gentle harmony with the hearty textures of curly kale. Slow-cooked to perfection, this stew is a tapestry of warmth and nourishment. Each spoonful reveals the essence of seasonal abundance, and invites you to indulge in a comforting, wholesome experience that encapsulates the very spirit of winter. It is a culinary masterpiece celebrating the fusion of taste, colours and winter allure. Raring2make! Recipes to make as a family for the family

17 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! ANNUAL PASS

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Raring2go! PUZZLE PRODIGIES 20 raring2go.co.uk Jigsaw puzzles, those seemingly simple and yet endlessly captivating ‘things’, offer a huge range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for children's development. Beyond just providing a source of entertainment, puzzles engage young minds in a way that promotes cognitive, emotional and social growth. At a fundamental level, jigsaw puzzles are fantastic for honing cognitive skills. As children manipulate the pieces, they engage in spatial reasoning, recognising patterns and shapes to fit the puzzle together. This process stimulates critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, encouraging them to strategise and make connections between various elements. The gradual progression of difficulty in puzzles also supports the development of logical thought patterns as children work their way through more complex challenges. Fine motor skills, which are crucial for various daily activities receive a significant boost through puzzle-solving. The act of picking up, turning, and fitting pieces into place requires precision and co-ordination. For younger children who are still refining their hand-eye co-ordination and manual dexterity, jigsaw puzzles provide a fun and highly effective way to enhance these very important motor skills. The emotional benefits of jigsaw puzzles are equally significant. The satisfaction of finally completing a puzzle instills a deep sense of real accomplishment and boosts self-esteem. This positive reinforcement helps to build a child's confidence and encourages them to take on new challenges. It teaches them the value of persistence and the joy that comes from overcoming obstacles. Lessons that extend far beyond the realm of puzzles and into various aspects of life. Jigsaw puzzles can be a shared activity, promoting collaboration and communication. When children work on a puzzle together, they learn to share ideas, discuss strategies, and celebrate collective success. This collaborative aspect not only strengthens bonds with peers and family but also lays the foundation for effective teamwork in future endeavors. Jigsaw puzzles contribute to the development of patience and perseverance. Solving a puzzle requires time and effort, teaching children the importance of persistence and the satisfaction that comes from completing a task. These qualities are essential for navigating challenges in academics and personal growth. The appeal of jigsaw puzzles for children goes beyond mere amusement. They serve as a dynamic tool for enhancing cognitive abilities, fine-tuning motor skills, fostering emotional resilience, and promoting social interaction. As a versatile and engaging activity, jigsaws offer a well-rounded developmental experience for children, making them an excellent addition to any educational or recreational toolkit. Puzzle Prodigies: Unraveling the Magic of Jigsaw Adventures for Children

21 Raring2go! PUZZLE

22 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! AROUND THE WORLD IN 10 CHUCKLES Pack your imaginary bags, young explorers! We're embarking on a global giggle-fest to uncover the quirkiest cultural differences that make our world a kaleidoscope of traditions, tastes and terrific tales. So, buckle up for a whimsical world tour that will leave you laughing and learning. Greetings Galore: In Japan, a bow is the go-to greeting, while in Australia, a casual "G'day mate!" reigns supreme. It's a cultural handshake showcasing the diversity in our hello-how-do-you-do dictionary. Mealtime Madness: Ever tried spaghetti tacos or kimchi for breakfast? Around the world, mealtime is a cultural playground where taste buds dance with traditions. Who knew that in some places, it's polite to slurp your noodles with gusto? Shoe Stories: In some homes, shoes are VIPs, welcomed with open arms. In others, they're the party crashers who must stay at the doorstep. Cultural shoe etiquette – where every step tells a tale. Language Limbo: Lost in translation? In Iceland, "Jólabókaflóð" means "Christmas book flood" a cozy tradition of exchanging books and reading on Christmas Eve. It's a linguistic labyrinth where words are cultural treasure maps. Traffic Tango: Ever seen a roundabout ballet? In the UK cars dance clockwise, while in the USA, it's an anti clockwise jive. It's a traffic tango that keeps the streets bustling with cultural rhythm. Don’t even think about Italy! Festival Fever: From La Tomatina's tomato battles in Spain to India's Holi colour explosions, festivals worldwide are a carnival of cultural craziness. It's a party where traditions don costumes and celebrations paint the town red – literally! Sweet Tooth Tales: Tooth-friendly or sugar rush? From Japan's fish shaped taiyaki to Mexico's spicy mango lollipops, cultural sweets are the sugary storytellers of each nation's sweet tooth saga. Time-Traveling Timezones: In some places, being fashionably late is the norm. In others, punctuality is the cultural superhero that saves the day. Timezones are the backstage pass to the global theatre of temporal traditions. Expressive Emoticons: Forget words; let emojis do the talking! From the joyous J-pop star in Japan to the dancing salsa lady in Latin America, emojis are cultural ambassadors of digital expressions. Celebrity Cousins: In some places, black cats bring good luck, while in others, they're the stars of superstition. It's a literal cat fight where cultural beliefs turn our furry friends into either the toast of the town or the taboo of the neighbourhood. Cultural differences become the spice in the melting pot of our magnificent world. It wouldn’t do if we were all the same after all. So, young adventurers, keep your curiosity wide awake, your giggles ready, and see how many more differences you can spot. Around the World in 10 Chuckles: Exploring Cultural Quirks with a Giggle

10 WINTER JOKES FOR KIDS. Fr ste 1. What do snowmen eat for breakfast? Frosted Flakes! t 2. Why d h cau d cool music! 2. Why did the boy keep his trumpet out in the snow? Because he liked cool music! a 3. Wh n abdo wman! 3. What do you call a snowman with a six-pack? An abdominal snowman! b g g an 4. How does a snowman get around? By riding an “icicle”! 5. Why did the snowman call his dog Frost? Because Frost bites! u r g ? Snow 6. What falls but never gets hurt? Snow! 7. How do you know when a snowman is happy? He has a big smile snowing on his face! s d d s Wate 8. What do you call an old snowman? Water! at r g wear s 9. Why don¼t mountains ever get cold? They wear snowcaps! a e to m 10. How do snowmen greet each other? “Ice to meet you!”

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Raring2go! OVERCOMING READING CHALLENGES Overcoming reading challenges with your children requires patience, creativity, and a supportive approach that recognises and addresses individual needs. Children may encounter various hurdles on their journey to literacy and it's crucial for parents and caregivers to adapt strategies that foster a positive reading experience. Firstly, identifying and addressing specific reading difficulties is essential. Whether a child struggles with decoding certain words, comprehension, or maintaining their focus, pinpointing the challenges allows for a targeted intervention. Tailoring the reading activities to the child's level of proficiency ensures that the material is appropriately challenging without causing frustration. Creating a supportive and encouraging environment is key to overcoming reading challenges. Positive reinforcement, praise for effort and celebrating small victories contribute to building a child's confidence and motivation. Patience is crucial; allowing children the time they need to progress at their own pace creates a deep sense of accomplishment and a more positive attitude towards reading. Incorporating a variety of reading can also be beneficial. Offering a mix of fiction and non-fiction books, graphic novels or audio books can provide diverse options that cater to different interests and learning styles. Interactive reading, asking open-ended questions, discussing the story, or relating it to the child's experiences, engages them in a way that enhances comprehension and critical thinking. Utilising technology can be a valuable tool in overcoming reading challenges. Educational apps and online resources designed to support literacy development offer a great interactive and engaging experience. These resources can act to supplement traditional reading methods and provide additional practice in a format that may appeal to more tech-savvy children. Above all, encouraging a love for reading is paramount. Making reading enjoyable through storytelling, creating a cozy reading nook, or incorporating themed activities can turn reading into a pleasurable experience rather than a daunting task. By tailoring strategies to individual needs and placing emphasis on the joy of reading we can guide children towards overcoming their challenges and build a foundation for a lifelong love of literature and reading. Overcoming Reading Challenges with Children

27 Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read! Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read! Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read! Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read! Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read! Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read! Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read! Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read! Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read!Raring2Read! British Science Week 5th - 14th March Maisie vs Antartica By Jack Jackman A great adventure that I completely lost track of time reading as it is great! Raring2Read! BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FAMILIES Brilliant age-appropriate books reviewed by a growing army of amazing junior reviewers. In association with LoveReading4Kids www.raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! would like to thank LoveReading4Kids, for this wonderful review. LoveReading4Kids, the UK’s leading children’s book recommendation website, is now a bookstore with social purpose, where 25% of the cover price can be donated to a school to buy books. Because books change lives. Buy a Book. Support a School. Make a Difference. Click anywhere on this page to buy this book or visit: www.lovereading4kids.co.uk This is a really exciting adventure with unexpected twists. I completely lost track of time reading this as I got so caught up in the story right from the very beginning. Maisie lives with her dad as her mum died when she was a baby, and she thinks that nothing exciting ever happens, that all that happens is that she does 1000 piece jigsaw puzzles until her dad agrees to take her on a trip to Antarctica for research for his new book. When the plane crash lands, the adventures (and strange happenings) begin. I loved all the information on Antarctica and Maisie was a great character who I liked. I really enjoyed reading this. Review for Raring2go! by Rebecca King, age 11 Raring2go! RARING2READ

30 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WINTER WARMERS As winter blankets the world in a soft layer of snow and chilly winds blow, families find themselves seeking indoor warmth and entertainment. Here’s a few ideas for indoor family games and activities that promise fun, bonding and togetherness. 1. Board Game Bonanza: Winter is the perfect time to dust off those classic board games. From strategic battles in "Risk" to wordplay in "Scrabble," board games deliver hours of fun promoting critical thinking, communication, and healthy competition. No cheating allowed! 2. Family Movie Nights: Create cosy movie nights watching a favourite film. Rotate responsibility of selecting film among family members, creating a diverse playlist. Add popcorn and snuggle up for an evening of cinematic magic and shared laughter. 3. Winter-Themed Crafts: Engage in creative endeavors with winter-themed crafts. From snowflake cutouts to paper snowmen, these projects unleash artistic expression and help enhance fine motor skills. Display your creations as festive decorations around the house. 4. Cooking and Baking Extravaganza: Turn the kitchen into a family cooking or baking workshop. Choose recipes for treats like biscuits hot cocoa or hearty stews. Assign tasks based on age and skill level, creating delicious results while imparting foodie knowledge and teamwork. 5. Scavenger Hunts and Treasure Maps: Design indoor scavenger hunts or treasure maps to spark excitement and adventure. Hide clues around the house leading to a hidden "treasure." This activity not only keeps everyone entertained but also encourages teamwork, problem-solving, and a sense of exploration. 6. Storytelling Sessions: Gather around a cosy fireplace or create a blanket fort and have a storytelling session. Encourage family members to contribute to a collaborative story or take turns sharing a favourite winter tale. This activity nurtures creativity, imagination, and the joy of shared narratives. 7. DIY Puzzles and Brain Teasers: Create DIY puzzles or brain teasers for a mental workout that is both challenging and enjoyable. From jigsaw puzzles to riddles, activities like this enhance problem-solving skills and provide a break from the winter chill. 8. Family Game Night Olympics: Transform game night into a family game night Olympics. Set up challenges or mini-games, such as charades, Pictionary, or trivia. Award points and celebrate the champions at the end of the night. This not only encourages friendly competition but also creates lasting memories. As winter winds blow outside, indoor family games and activities become a haven of warmth and of laughter during shared experiences. These will not only combat the winter blues but also nurture strong family bonds, turning chilly evenings into moments of joy and connection. So, gather your loved ones, embrace the coziness and let the indoor winter adventures begin. Enjoy! Winter Warmth: Cosy Indoor Family Games and Activities

31 Raring2go! DOG FACTS

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