17 February to 21 February 2025 WATFORD VENUE: Holy Road Catholic Primary School WD17 4FS Half Term Club Breakfast, Lunch and Tea provided Ages 3 to 11 years old Opening Times: 8:45 AM to 6:00 PM For More Info Visit Our Website: www.adventureclubwatford.co.uk To Book: Call us at 07525 001 964 Email: info.adventureclubwatford.co.uk NEW ABBOTS LANGLEY VENUE: Divine Saviour Catholic Primary School WD5 0HW Adventure club front Winter 24.qxp_Layout 1 14/11/2024 11:08 Page 1 FIRST CLASS LEARNING P19 FESTIVE FUN P4-10 FOR SALE P2 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2024 WATFORD
2 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! ADVENTURE CLUB Could you be the next owner of Have you ever dreamed of running your own business, making your own decisions and taking control of your working life to t around your family? I’m looking for a new owner to take over the Watford edition of Raring2go! – a thriving and well-respected local business. During my time as Editor, I’ve loved discovering new places to visit with my family, reviewing shows at the theatre and trying out new activities with my two children. By working for myself, I have been lucky enough to be there for the daily school run, attend sports days and nativities and spend school holidays with my children. While Raring2go! Is a business where you work for yourself, you are part of a supportive franchise network, where there’s always someone on hand to give advice if you need it. I would love for another local, passionate parent to enjoy the same experiences I have. No previous experience is necessary, although an interest in the local community, an eye for detail and a tenacious attitude will certainly help! If you’re ready for a change in direction and have always dreamed of working for yourself, please do get in touch with me for a chat: Call Rena on 07881600135 or email: watford@raring2go.co.uk FIRST CLASS LEARNING P20 THE GREAT OUTDOORS P14 WHAT’S ON P4-5 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR raring2go.co.uk SUMMER 2021 Raring2go! Watford? FIRST CLAS WATFORD PLACES TO GO P16-19 AUTUMN ACTIVITIES P12-13 FIRST CLASS LEARNING P7 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk AUTUMN 2021 W PL P1 D YO AUTU WATFORD FIRST CLASS LEARNING P25 PLACES TO GO P6-11 WINTER ACTIVITIES P4-5 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2021 WA FIRST CLA LEARNIN UAN www.boombattlebar.co.uk/watford watford@boombattlebar.com 01923 902 021 WATFORD FIRST CLASS LEARNING WHAT’S ON THIS EASTER P4-9 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk SPRING 2022 902 YOU 3–12 YEARS OLD 25th July – 26th August 2022 BREAKFAST, LUNCH TEA PROVIDED For more information and to book, head to pageS 16 & 17! Summer Holiday Club D WHERE: SUN POSTAL SPORTS CLUB WATFORD Sports, arts & crafts, cooking and fun outings! CLUB FORD OPENING TIMES 7.30am to 6.00pm WATFORD RMS OPEN DAY P31 FIRST CLASS LEARNING P12 WHAT’S ON P4-9 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk SUMMER 2022 y Club AL LUB fun outings! RD 2 Bring this with you and claim a free glow necklace for every player in your booking You can enjoy plotting your way around the skateboard / urban style holes before taking a selfie at the midway point and then blasting off to space for the final half. Bookings available online at www.glowinone.co.uk 01923 244022 Watford’s only glow in the dark mini golf… 14 holes of crazy fun in our underground basement. Fun For All The Family! WATFORD RMS OPEN DAY P31 FIRST CLASS LEARNING P21 HALLOWEEN SPECIAL P4-9 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk AUTUMN 2022
3 Raring2go! WELCOME TO WINTER Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/ r2gwatford https://www.instagram.com/ raring2gowatford/ Dear readers, I can’t quite believe the festive season is very nearly upon us. I don’t know about you, but it feels like this year has absolutely flown by! We’ve got a cracking edition packed full to the brim with the most fun, festive, family-friendly events to keep everyone entertained over Winter. Read on to learn the best spots for Christmas lights and trails, pantos and plays, as well as where to meet Father Christmas in various grottos, country houses and garden centres (he is a busy man, isn’t he?!) We’ve also got lots of ideas on how to keep busy at home and enjoy simple pleasures together as a family from gardening, to games, to baking and crafts! The next Raring2go magazine is out in the Spring, when we’ll be thinking about Easter – feels a very long time until then doesn’t it? But until then, enjoy pumpkin spice and all things nice. Make sure, wherever you go you mention you’ve seen it in Raring2go Watford! With love, Raring2go! Watford, Editor Rx ena Creative Courage For Life® SING, DANCE ACT Unlock your child’s potential Stagecoach Chorleywood & Rickmansworth Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds. Small classes, grouped by age. Friday and Sunday Classes at Little Green School, Croxley Green Saturday Classes at St Clement Danes, Chorleywood www.stagecoach.co.uk/chorleywood chorleywood@stagecoach.co.uk 07876 680874 SCAN ME CHILDCARE VOUCHERS ACCEPTED
Most towns in Hertfordshire will put up the Christmas lights from midNovember onwards. There are some fantastic light displays in: • St Albans • Welwyn Garden City • Harpenden • Watford • Hatfield • Hitchin FESTIVE FUN Hogwarts in the Snow, at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London 16th November – 19th January You are invited to experience a very ‘Harry Christmas’ at the Studio Tour during Hogwarts in the Snow, the most magical time of year, when iconic Harry Potter sets are dressed for the festive season in a blanket of filmmaking snow. Christmas trees will tower over you in the Great Hall topped by authentic flying witches and inviting fireplaces will be adorned with festive holly, mistletoe, and wreaths. Step into the Forbidden Forest, where the woodlands will be covered in snow, or stroll down Diagon Alley with its snowy shop fronts and cobbled stones. Stop by the Christmas shop which has returned this year to provide you with a premium and exclusive selection of Christmas gifts, souvenirs, and stocking fillers. RHS Glow, at RHS Garden Wisley 22nd November – 5th January Create magical memories with loved ones at RHS Garden Wisley’s festive illuminations. See the garden transformed on a wonderful new illuminated trail, with spectacular new views and playful, enchanting features, and enjoy festive food and Christmas shopping. Illuminated, at Ashridge House 29th November – 1st January Ashridge House Illuminated returns for 2024, ready to light up your season! Experience an enchanting evening with our magical light trail, perfect for the whole family. Wander through our stunning Grade II* listed gardens, adorned with dazzling lights and mesmerising new installations. Rudolph Trail, at The National History Museum Tring 3rd December – 5th January Search the galleries and help Father Christmas track them down by using clues from the postcards the reindeer sent from their travels. Festive Weekend, at Chiltern Open Air Museum 7th – 8th December Step back in time and see how Christmas was celebrated in the past. See Tudor re-enactors carrying out their Christmas preparations. There will be artisan craft stalls, local choirs will be performing, you can visit Father Christmas and children can take part in Christmas crafts and ride a festive pony. Book tickets at www.coam.org.uk Live Nativity Trail, at St Albans Cathedral 14th December Can you find all the characters and animals in the nativity story. Follow the Live Nativity Trail app around the Cathedral to collect stickers after hearing from them. 4 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! FESTIVE FUN WHAT’S ON! LOCAL EVENTS LISTINGS Whilst we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of all events, please check details with the organiser to avoid disappointment.
Step into atria, Watford’s enchanting new Christmas adventure with Santa and the Wishmas Owl! From November 30th to December 24th, bring your family to this FREE experience where children can whisper their wishes to the Wishmas Owl in the magical Wishmas Forest. In this festive experience, children will be welcomed by the Woodland Elves, spirited forest friends who speak to the animals and trees. They’ll guide little ones to meet Santa and the wondrous Wishmas Owl, where they’ll be encouraged to think about wishes they can make not only for themselves, but also for others at this special time of year. Children can interact with our larger-than-life animatronic owl in this 20-minute group experience, where festive dreams are gathered, and joy is shared. Located on on the lower mall near TK Maxx, this memorable festive attraction is free for all families to enjoy. Dates and times vary throughout December and it is advised to book online to secure your place. Walk-ins will be available on the day however these spaces are limited. To book, visit atriawatford.com and make this Christmas one to remember! Looking for a festive film to enjoy? Catch Paddington in Peru at Cineworld! Follow the beloved bear on an exciting adventure the whole family will love. And while you’re at Atria, discover plenty of ways to fill your stockings! From Hollywood Bowl and Escape Hunt to Puttshack, Boom Battle Bar, and Rock Up’s new high ropes — there’s fun for everyone to fill this Christmas season with joy. You can fill your belly with jelly (or whatever’s on the menu) at Haute Dolci, The Beech House or try classics like TGI Friday’s, Pizza Express and we all love a Yo! Give a Gift Appeal is back for 2024 and collecting gifts and donations for HomeStart Watford & Three Rivers, Sebby’s Corner, HABS and Watford Mencap, who help local families in particular need over the festive period. Visitors are invited to place unwrapped gifts, including craft activities, toys and new clothing into the giant box located on the upper mall, near Apple. There is late night shopping until 8pm from 12th to 23rd December (excluding Sundays) so you have more time to explore new stores including Dunelm, B&M, Poundland, not to mention the newly expanded Zara! Plus parking is just £2 after 5pm. 5 Raring2go! FESTIVE FUN
PANTOS AND PLAYS Peter Pan, at The Gordon Craig Theatre 22nd November – 19th January Soar to Neverland in this high-flying Pantomime adventure. Take to the skies with Peter, Wendy and Tinker Bell as the Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage presents their next sensational pantomime The New Adventures of Peter Pan. Test your sea-legs as we set sail in Captain Hook’s pirate ship and join his crazy crew in this swashbuckling adventure that is fun for the whole family. Aladdin, at Watford Palace Theatre 30th November – 31st December Join a magic carpet ride like no other, as Aladdin takes to the skies of Watford. Evil baddie Abanazar – check! Glamorous Princess – check! Magical and funky genie – check! And, of course, all the classics you expect from one of the longest running pantos on the planet – big songs, great gags, and Widow Twanky herself. Jack and the Beanstalk, at Watersmeet Theatre 6th – 31st December This year’s panto at Watersmeet will certainly grow on you! With nothing but a handful of magic beans, Jack must find the courage to climb to Cloudland, slay a giant, win the hand of the Princess and free his village forever! Sleeping Beauty, at The Eric Morecambe Centre 7th – 30th December This Christmas, you’re invited to the pantomime of your dreams. Once upon a time in a Pantoland far, far away, Princess Aurora is cursed by the evil Carabosse to perish on her 18th birthday by pricking her finger on a spinning wheel. With great songs, dazzling dance routines, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and spectacular special effects this dream of a pantomime will be an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike. Sleeping Beauty, at The Radlett Centre 7th December – 3rd January Upstage Productions present Sleeping Beauty as our 2024 traditional family pantomime. We promise dazzling choreography, stunning sets, uplifting live music, glamourous costumes (for most of the cast members!) and, of course, plenty of audience participation. Cinderella, at The Alban Arena 12th December – 12th January Don’t miss this year’s fantastic, fun-filled family pantomime, Cinderella. With stunning sets, hilarious comedy and breathtaking special effects, this year’s show promises to be our biggest and funniest pantomime ever! 6 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! FESTIVE FUN
MEET SANTA Santa’s Grotto, at Van Hage Great Amwell 2nd November – 20th December This Christmas, join Great Grottos for an unforgettable experience! Children will have the chance to meet Santa, share their excitement for the big day, and personally deliver their Christmas wishes. Each child will also receive a special gift from Santa himself. Santa’s Grotto, at Burston Garden Centre 9th November – 24th December All aboard the Santa Express, the most magical, family, Christmas experience! Calling all children, Father Christmas is in need of some extra Christmas spirit this year in order to reach every child on Christmas eve. The station nutcrackers will board you upon the Santa Express to Winter Wonderland to meet Father Christmas himself, receive a special gift and help raise enough Christmas spirit to fill the spirit-ometer. Christmas Wonderland, at Crews Hill 14th November – 24th November All aboard at the station platform, where you begin your magical ride through the reindeer forest! You’ll continue your magical ride through the Wonderland where you will see some familiar Christmas favourites, en route to Santa’s magical Ice Kingdom where Santa will greet you alongside your carriage. Remaining in your carriage you finally visit the Elves toy shop where you finish your ride and choose your Christmas gift, with love from Santa. Christmas Special, at Audley End Miniature Railway 21st November – 24th December Embark on a magical journey this Christmas. The Nutcracker Station Master invites you to climb aboard the Christmas Express and journey deep into the enchanted woods of Audley End to visit Father Christmas’ winter workshop! You’ll see Mother Christmas and her elves hard at work making sure all the toys are ready for Christmas Eve. Meet Father Christmas as he greets everyone along the train and gives each child a special gift. Be sure to look out for our miniature fairies and their Christmas festivities on the way too! Snowberry the frost fairy will be waiting in her tipi tent for her stage show; and don’t forget to let off steam in the Adventure Play Area too. Santa Spectacular, at Willows Activity Farm 23rd November – 24th December A spectacular visit to see Santa in his Grotto and receive a golden key to his Toy Shop to choose any gift. Your visit also includes make-a-bear cuddly toy, gingerbread decorating, toy workshop, reindeer hunt with prize, magical (synthetic) ice skating, festive shows, festive funfair rides, adventure play, animals and Peter Rabbit’s Adventure Playground. 7 Raring2go! FESTIVE FUN
8 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! FESTIVE FUN MEET SANTA Santa’s Grotto, at Dobbies Aylesbury 28th November – 24th December Hop on board the Little Seedlings train-themed journey for children and families, complete with interactive elements and a meeting with Santa himself! Take in the atmosphere as you arrive at the enchanted forest, and after a warm welcome from the elves at Sleighbell Station, children will get to experience snowy scenes, spot woodland characters, find hidden nutcrackers, all culminating in the chance to meet Santa. Children are encouraged to share their excitement, wishes and stories before receiving their gift Christmas Cracker, at Odds Farm Park 29th November – 24th December Take a magical stroll to the North Pole and enjoy a personal visit to meet Father Christmas! Soak up the seasonal splendour with the return of our sell-out Christmas experience, where the Farm Park has been sprinkled with yuletide wonder and festive frivolities, and families will be joined by a very special guest! Christmas, at Hertfordshire Zoo 30th November – 24th December Hertfordshire Zoo will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland, filled with festive cheer, twinkling lights, and special experiences for visitors of all ages. This year, the zoo is going all out to spread holiday joy, offering a range of enchanting activities and seasonal treats included in your day ticket. So, grab your family and friends, and get ready for a Christmas adventure like no other! One of the highlights of the season is the magical Christmas Grotto, where children can meet Santa Claus himself! You will have the chance to share your Christmas wishes with Santa, receive a small gift, and capture the moment with a keepsake photo.
J102276_Atria_Christmas 24_Wishmas Owl-Onsite-poster-128x182-AW-OL-HR.pdf 1 06/11/2024 16:58 9 Raring2go! SANTA COMES TO ATRIA
MEET SANTA Christmas, at Mead Open Farm 30th November – 24th December Experience a magical festive adventure on selected dates in November and December, as the yuletide cheer of the North Pole takes over the farm. Meet Father Christmas in his grotto, decorate gingerbread men with Mother Christmas, journey through Christmas HQ and help find the magic. Wander through The Magical Forest and make some Reindeer food to take home ready for Christmas Eve. Don’t forget to visit the Make a Bear Workshop to create your own cuddly toy. Winterfest, at Aldenham Country Park 30th November – 24th December Head on an adventure to the Farm to meet all the animals, have a boogie to some festive tunes in the Dance Tunnel and let out a belter at Santa-Oke. Hunt down all the Elves hanging around the Farm on the Elf Hunt - find them all to win a prize! Then, take a memorable trip through Santa’s Magical Grotto to meet the excitable Elves! Venture on to meet the big man himself and share all your Christmas wishes. A Palace Visit with Santa, at Hatfield House 1st – 22nd December, every Sunday Visit Hatfield House this festive season for a unique, special experience with Santa Claus. You will be greeted upon your arrival by children’s storyteller Alex Shows, who will take you through a journey of the Old Palace, telling of the history of this magnificent building, including the story of Elizabeth I and her childhood festivities – all presented in Alex’s signature style, with lots of energy and bundles of fun. Then you will meet Santa himself in the cosy Lower Solar Room, against the backdrop of a beautiful fireplace, where you can have your picture taken with Santa and choose a wonderful Hatfield Park branded gift, as a special memento to remember the occasion. Dine with Santa, at Knebworth House and Barns 15th and 22nd December Give your family an early Christmas treat with a fantastic meal at Knebworth Barns complete with a visit from Santa. 10 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! FESTIVE FUN
11 Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES PLAY AND LEARN THROUGH YOGA WEEKLY YOGA: Family Yoga with Pre-Schoolers (2-4 years) Children's Yoga (5-8 years) Family Yoga with Tweens (8-12 years) Mum & Daughter Yoga with Tweens (8-12 years) Saturdays: St Hilda’s School, Bushey Coming Soon: Family Yoga Sundays 07784 370034 anjli@anjliyoga.com anjliyoga.com Debbie is a specialist SATS and 11+ tutor (maths and verbal reasoning). Call her today on 07818 432567 if you would like a free session to see if your child could benet and thrive from extra support. *£30/hour for any following sessions Do you want to boost your child’s confidence with their school work and help them to prepare for exams? Free Trial Session with Expert Tutor! STAGECOACH CHORLEYWOOD AND RICKMANSWORTH FREE DISCOVERY DAY Friday, January 10 2025 At Little Green School, Croxley Green, WD3 3NJ Ages 4-6yrs 4.30-5.30pm Ages 6-15yrs 4.30-6.00pm To reserve a place chorleywood@stagecoach.co.uk call (07876) 680874 All Students are grouped by age and assured a very warm welcome with goody bags for all too!
12 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! PLACES TO GO From Santa visits to storytelling, see what’s on at roalddahlmuseum.org ...at the Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden
13 Raring2go! AUTUMN ADVENTURES Matilda’s Christmas Jumper Saturday 23 November to Sunday 5 January Come and pull a Christmassy power-pose with our Matilda statue in the courtyard. For all ages. Free with Museum entry Child Heroes Christmas Trail Saturday 23 November to Sunday 5 January Discover the stockings around the Museum and earn a special seasonal hero’s stamp at the end. Free with Museum entry Swashboggling Seasonal Shopping Saturday 23 November, until 6.30pm As part of Great Missenden’s Christmas evening our shop will be open later than usual. Pop in for Christmas gifts and offers! Free, no need to visit the Museum Grown-Up Gathering Thursday 28 November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm Why let the kids have all the fun? Grown-ups, it’s YOUR turn to experience the Museum! Join us for a special seasonal late-night event where you’ll get to explore the galleries — with a glass of wine in your hand, obviously. Adults only. £19.95, includes all activities, a drink and mince pies. Magical Storytelling Selected dates throughout Christmas Listen to magical extracts from Matilda and The BFG. For age 5+. Free with Museum entry Christmas Trek and Treat Friday 27 December Blow the cobwebs off and get out in the fresh air after Christmas! Warm up with a hot drink and mince pie back at the Museum. For age 6+. Free with Museum entry Heroic Animals with Jungle Juniors Saturday 28 December Come face-to-face with some heroic minibeasts and bugs this Christmas. We’ll be joined by Jungle Juniors who will tell you all about the animals’ wondrous ways. For age 5+. Free with Museum entry High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL | hello@roalddahlmuseum.org Find full details at roalddahlmuseum.org/whats-on Santa at the Roald Dahl Museum Saturday 14 December Join us for a laid-back Santa experience. Father Christmas will be making appearances in the Museum galleries throughout the day so come and say hi! Storytelling and drop-in crafts on offer. Free with Museum entry, chocolate treat included. Please pre-book 23 November to 5 January
14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! PLACES TO GO
Jump into jolly this festive season at Jump In Adventure and Trampoline Park Elstree! The perfect escape from the cold weather for the whole family. Whether you are 4 or 54, all the exciting and unique activities mean you are guaranteed to leave with a huge smile on your face! Jump In Elstree is home to wall-to-wall trampolines, airbags to jump into, fast and furious dodgeball games, and much more! Adventure and fun is always around the corner at Jump In. Little ones can bounce in a safe and fun environment in Toddler Takeover sessions, suitable for ages 1-6 years. Ages 4 and above can bounce during Open Jump sessions or choose to experience their favourite trampoline park in a cool night club atmosphere during their bargain 2-hour After Dark sessions on Fridays and Saturdays evening 6-8pm for only £19.50. The whole family can bounce together in Family Takeovers – 10-11am on peak days such as weekends and holidays. For anyone preferring a calmer environment there’s SEN Sessions every Monday 6-7pm – tickets include one free carer companion. Get UNLIMITED Open Jumps for the price of one hour with the Unlimited After School Jump offer. Available Mondays – Thursdays after 3pm during term time. Or save with the brand new After School Antics, also available Mon – Thu, offering 60 minutes jumps for two people plus one Margherita pizza – for a bargain £24.95! Jump In Elstree is the perfect day out or party venue for larger groups as well. Choose from a range of hassle-free party packages all including party host, party room or area, decorations and clean up. Save 15% on term time parties, Monday – Thursday, using the discount code WEEKDAY15. Party planning couldn’t be easier! School trips, youth group days out, and corporate team building can all be catered for with group package options starting at £10pp. Looking for something a little more specific? A bespoke session can also be created for your requirements, perfect for a Christmas party with a difference! Give the gift of jumping for joy this Christmas with one of our gift cards! Valid for one year from the day of purchase. Available in the park and online. For more information and to book visit https://gojumpin.com/trampoline-parkelstree/ Or call 0330 223 3333 15 Raring2go! PLACES TO GO
16 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS, CLASSES & CAMPS 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.
17 Raring2go! CLUBS, CLASSES & CAMPS 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.
18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! AUTUMN ADVENTURES
19 Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES To find out more, call the Garston centre manager: Deepa Sivanandan Tel: 01923 517 170 Email: garston@firstclasslearning.co.uk www.firstclasslearning.co.uk/tuition-centres/watford-garston Mas and English tuition in Garston, Watford Tailored and Curriculum-led coaching in GCSE’s, SATs, 11+ and 7+ exams Centres: Parmiters School, WD25 0UU Saturday, 10.00-13.00 Garston Community Church, WD25 9FL Tuesday, 17.00-19.00 GIVE THE GIFT OF CONFIDENCE THIS CHRISTMAS Find out more at thedantien.co.uk or call 01923 236815 The multi-award winning home of the performing arts in Watford
20 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! GAMES AND ACTIVITIES 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
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Christmas arts and crafts to do at home! Now we are entering into the festive season, it’s the perfect time to engage children in doing some quick and easy Christmas themed arts and crafts. These make a great addition to your Christmas decorations using materials you’ll have at home! Hanging snowflakes What you’ll need: - A4 plain paper - Safety scissors (these only cut paper!) - Hole puncher - String Step one- Cut the A4 sheet of paper into a square, which is roughly 20cm by 20cm. However, you can experiment with different sized squares to produce a variety of snowflakes. Step two- Fold the piece of paper diagonally in half to make a right-angle triangle. Step three- Fold the triangle in half three further times. Step four- Trim off the three points of the triangle to give it blunt edges. Step five- Cut a variety of shapes out of the sides of the triangle to achieve different patterns.Then unfold the paper to reveal your snowflake. Step six- Using a hole puncher, punch a hole into the top of the snowflake. Attach a piece of string and hang it up around the home as a Christmas decoration. Toilet roll trees What you’ll need: - A finished loo roll (or kitchen roll for a bigger tree) - Pencil - Scissors - Paint or pens to decorate your tree Step one- Flatten the toilet roll and draw the outline of a Christmas tree onto it. Leave 1cm of space at the bottom to allow room for the tree to stand up. Step two- Cut along the outline of the drawing until your toilet roll resembles the shape of a Christmas tree. Step three- Decorate the tree using any materials of your choosing. Step four- Unflatten the tree and stand it up using the space left at the bottom.The tree is now ready to use as a Christmas decoration, which would look great on the mantel piece or dotted somewhere else around the home! Written by Alice Murphy, a second-year undergraduate student studying English Literature at the University of Warwick 22 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CHRISTMAS CRAFTS
23 Raring2go! WINTER RECIPE 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 l2 tbsp olive oil l1 onion (diced) l1 clove garlic (chopped) l1 carrot (diced)l1/2 tsp turmeric l1/2 tsp ground cinnamon l1/2 tsp ground ginger l50g red lentils l250ml passata l350g butternut squash (peeled & cubed) l 1/2 400g can black-eyed beans l750ml vegetable stock l80g kale (shredded) lPinch of salt lPinch of pepper l 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
24 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 50% off Events & Festivals Up To 50% off Theme Parks Up To 67% off Theatre & Museums Up To 45% off Zoos & Aquariums Up To Book Amazing Winter Attraction DEALS & DAYS OUT with Raring2go!
25 Raring2go! WINTER GARDENING 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.
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27 Raring2go! HEALTHY EATING Balancing food palettes: encouraging children to develop healthy eating habits From a young age, it is important to teach children what a balanced diet looks like so that they can take healthy eating habits into their adulthood. However, it can be difficult to ensure that children don’t overindulge in sugary foods and drinks, especially if this is what they lean more towards. As a result, many easily develop snacking habits on foods such as sweets and chocolates, which can lead to fillings and unhealthy weight gain. In this feature, I will highlight some methods to help encourage children to establish a healthy relationship with food and a balanced diet. Scheduled family meals: Having routine family meals together gives children a meal to look forward when they arrive home from school.This can help prevent children from consuming unhealthy snacks throughout the day, so they don’t spoil their appetite for dinner. Stocking up on healthy snacks: When children are looking for something to snack on, being stocked up on healthy foods such as fruit and yoghurt is a great way to prevent children from turning to foods such as sweets, chocolates and crisps by default. Bear fruit snacks can be good to have on hand as these are tasty and still count as one of your five-a-day. Be a role model: One of the best ways to introduce children to healthy eating habits is by demonstrating them yourself. Many children use their parent’s own eating habits as a guide for their own.This can be done by showing children that while the occasional takeaway is a nice treat, this isn’t a habit to get into every day. Preparing balanced home cooked meals and packed lunches for yourself and the children, is an effective way of encouraging them to do the same in future years. Cooking together: Getting children involved in the cooking process at home means that they are more likely to develop an interest in food and take more time in the future to cook themselves proper meals.This is also an easy and impactful way of introducing children to the components that make up a balanced and varied diet. Making time for a treat: There is no need to completely deprive children of sweet treats and sugary drinks, however it is important to monitor their intake. By scheduling a specific time in the day for children to have something such as biscuits or cake gives them a treat to look forward to and prevents them from overindulging throughout the rest of the day.
28 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! RARING2READ
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31 BRILL ANT DANCE ACADEMY Scan Me Register now for a FREE TRIAL www.brillianttheatrearts.co.uk/bdance Saturday - Kings Langley Academy WD4 9HN Sunday - St Albans Academy AL4 9NX SCHOOL YEARS 3 - 13 tailored classes for all abilities Ballet Jazz Tap plus many more learn multiple styles in one session where performers become dancers and dancers become performers Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES
28 October - 1 November 2024 NEW ABBOTS LANGLEY VENUE: Divine Saviour Catholic Primary School WD5 0HW WATFORD VENUE: Holy Road Catholic Primary School WD17 4FS Cooking & Baking 17 February to 21 February 2025 Half Term Club Ages 3 to 11 years old Opening Times: 8:45 AM to 6:00 PM For More Info Visit Our Website: www.adventureclubwatford.co.uk To Book: Call us at 07525 001 964 Email: info.adventureclubwatford.co.uk Breakfast, Lunch and Tea provided Lazer tag • Sports • Cooking • Arts and crafts Inflatables • Football pool
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