Mar 06

The importance of physical activity on children’s mental wellbeing

By Iain Boyle Childcare and Nannying, environment, Exercise, family, fun for children, play, Playing

by Debbie Webb,
Founder of Activ8 For Kids

Physical activity is an all encompassing term, which can refer to PE lessons at school, participation in team or individual sports, running around at the park and much more. Each one brings its own physical benefits such as healthy bones and muscles, a strong heart and lungs as well as developing fundamental movement skills, speed, strength and stamina. However, physical activity can bring a wealth of other benefits to children, meaning that even if your child is not ‘sporty’, helping them develop a lifelong habit of regular physical activity can help them across many aspects of their life.

Physical activity is defined by the World Health Organisation as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure. This includes walking to school, cleaning their rooms, kicking a ball around in their garden and any other movement that uses energy. The NHS recommends that children aged five to 18 years need to take part in 60 minutes of physical activity per day and for children under five it is 180 minutes.

We know that this is important for physical health and the importance of developing strong bones and muscles at a young age but do we consider all the other benefits our children are getting when they are being physically active?

As adults we have all been there; it is cold outside and we want to stay inside, warm and dry, but we feel tired, lethargic, possibly even a little low or agitated. If we are able to pull ourselves out for a walk, the fresh air can help wake us up, make us feel more invigorated and awake. We may return feeling tired, but it is a different type of tiredness – a good tiredness. It is the same for children, physical activity in any form can wake the brain up, release good chemicals and help them feel more alive.

We live in a society where computer games, TV and social media are part of life but it is important to help our children develop habits of coming away from screen time whenever they can, or at least to plan in breaks from the screens. A family walk along the beach, or in the woods can have so many positive effects on the whole family, time to talk, have fun with each other, wake your brains up and step away from the screen. It doesn’t have to be a long trek, a short walk around the block can have similar effects.

What are the benefits?
Physical activity can help hugely with maintaining mental health. Endorphins are released during all types of physical activity and can help to improve mood, energy levels and sleep. Physical activity has also been linked to a more positive body image in children and young people.

We are hearing more and more about rising anxiety levels in children. Physical activity can help break the cycle of anxiety by helping them focus on something different and gaining a sense of achievement, even if that is a short walk, taking a ball down to the beach or getting out on their bike. The feel good chemicals released in the brain during activity can also help a child with anxiety. There are so many pressures on children and young people in today’s society and many of these are amplified by social media. Taking part in physical activity can help children make friendships out of school, improve their confidence and help them with social anxiety.

There are many activities available that don’t focus on elite ability and are there to encourage physical activity, it is a case of exploring the options, looking at holiday activities, after-school clubs and going out with your child when you can. The benefits to your child’s mental wellbeing will be priceless and will stay with them for the rest of their lives. We need to help children recognise how physical activity makes them feel better about themselves and encourage them to find the activities they enjoy.

Debbie Webb is a qualified teacher and sports coach. She runs Activ8 For Kids and has developed programmes of activity for the different ages and stages between two and sixteen years old based on the fundamental movement skills. For more information please visit www.activ8forkids.co.uk

Mar 05

Love0

Stress-free birthday parties

By Iain Boyle Exercise, family, fun for children, Party, Playing

by Lily Derbyshire
AirHop

Outsource and sit back!

Your child’s birthday should be a joyous occasion but it often turns into a significant source of stress due to planning for the big day! From choosing a theme and organising activities and entertainment, to preparing food and cleaning up the aftermath, the to-do list can suddenly feel endless and costs can add up too. The good news is, there is a solution that ensures a memorable and stress-free experience for both parents and children: opting for a venue with dedicated children’s party services. Generally, most activity or play centres will have a range of party packages readily available to suit different requirements and budgets.

One of the biggest advantages of booking a party package at a venue with activity-based facilities is the significant reduction in stress. Planning and hosting a party at home means taking on countless responsibilities such as decorating, organising games, preparing food and drinks and cleaning up, alongside ensuring the party runs smoothly from start to finish. It is easy to see why hosting at home can sometimes seem more like a chore than a celebration.

Additionally, play and activity centres have a range of attractions, activities and trained hosts already in place that aren’t available at home, to ensure guests have an exciting and action-packed party. The truth is, children do not measure the success or value of their party by the hours put in by their parents organising it but how memorable and how much fun they and their friends had. Everyone wants to have the party that children will talk about long after.

By booking a party package at an activity centre, parents can delegate these tasks to experienced party hosts. Many venues handle everything from set up, activities and entertainment, to food and cleaning up, leaving the parents free to focus on what matters most – enjoying the special day with their child. Imagine walking into a fully prepared party, watching activities run effortlessly, and leaving at the end with no mess to clean up. Hosting at an activity centre eliminates the ‘what if’ worries: What if it rains? What if we run out of food? What if the children get bored? With experienced staff and well-equipped facilities, venues are prepared for any scenario. It is not just a party for your child – it is a gift for yourself!

While stress-free planning is a huge win for parents, the real magic of hosting at an activity centre venue lies in the experience it offers the children. Trampoline parks, in particular, are a standout choice. Combining high-energy fun with physical activity, they offer an unforgettable setting that keeps children entertained from start to finish. With wall-to-wall trampolines, giant airbags, dodgeball courts and many other exciting attractions, trampoline parks cater to a wide range of ages and energy levels and are sure to keep the children active.

Beyond being fun, trampolining is a fantastic form of exercise. It is three times more effective than jogging when it comes to burning calories, all while being easier on joints. As the children jump, they will engage multiple muscle groups, improving their balance and coordination and get their hearts pumping – all without even realising they are exercising and far away from any screens!

Trampoline parks provide a safe environment for high-energy play, featuring facilities designed with safety in mind and supervision from trained staff and party hosts to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for everyone. Guests can engage in physical activity by bouncing around the park, the perfect outlet for their energy. Parents can relax and have a coffee, knowing their children are in safe hands. By the time the party comes to a close, the children will be happily tired from all the excitement.

When it comes to stress-free party packages, AirHop and Jump In Adventure and Trampoline Parks features multiple locations nationwide and a range of party packages designed for all ages, making it easy to plan a celebration that’s stress-free for parents and exciting for the children. AirHop’s party packages include everything you need for a fantastic party: hoptastic jump time, access to private party areas, delicious food options and even a FREE return bounce pass for the birthday child. Visit the www.airhop.co.uk to learn more and book your next party.

Mar 04

Love0

Dance is for everyone

By Iain Boyle children's health, dance & Art, Exercise, fun for children, Music and singing, Party

by Jess Child
JC Dance

You may be wondering; how can a dance class beneﬁt my child in more ways than just keeping them busy for half an hour? Well, I am here to tell you about the amazing beneﬁts of a dance class – not just for your mini human – but for you too!

Let’s break away from the myth that dance is just for girls and encourage movement exploration for ALL children. Dance is for everyone. If you have a body you can dance. As a preschooler, dance is less about learning particular steps and more about imagination, expression, socialising and aiding development, making it a perfect activity for any child.

Preschool dance beneﬁts your child’s physical development by increasing their ability to perform motor skills. We might stand on one leg pretending to be a ﬂamingo, whilst improving balance, or we could march like an astronaut on the moon or gallop sideways like a crab to enhance coordination. This also builds your child’s knowledge of their bodies, helping them gain control of their extremities and core muscles, ultimately increasing reﬂexes and reducing the likelihood of any bumps or falls.

Dancing as a toddler promotes the idea of good posture to your child. We like to see who can stand the tallest or who can have the straightest back whilst sitting with their imaginary string connected all the way from the top of their head to the ceiling. This early foundation sets them up for life, keeping force balanced throughout their fast-growing little bodies. The distribution of force on muscles, bones and ligaments that good posture brings, not only reduces risks of injury but also builds conﬁdence and creates more space for the organs, improving breathing and digestion. All of these aspects give your child greater awareness of their bodies in space, helping bodies self-regulate. What’s not to love?

Dance classes will give your child the opportunity to move to many different types of music enhancing their musicality. Using music and stories and linking physical movements to imaginary ideas and ﬁnding a teacher who is passionate and encouraging, can help your preschooler to create a magical world and a safe space.

Preschool dance gives them the opportunity to interact with new children, grown-ups and teachers, ultimately helping them improve on social skills. Toddlers will continue to learn how to follow instructions and are able to start understanding taking turns and sharing with other children, they may take turns dancing one at a time, or wait their turn to get their maracas. This means each child has the opportunity to have one to one focus from the teacher, ensuring they all have a moment in the class to feel special and valued as an individual. This opportunity to move their bodies to music, along with a positive learning environment can help children’s conﬁdence skyrocket. In turn it can increase their independence, maybe by tidying up or dancing by themselves. Every child is different but at this age children are sponges for information, taking it all in, in their own way. With the use of repetition in dance classes your child is able to learn new words, new ways of moving and ﬁnd a passion for something new and exciting.

Now onto you. How can a preschool dance class beneﬁt you? This is time for you to meet other grown-ups with children of the same age, the ability to connect with others going through similar experiences can uplift us, support us and reduce stress. These classes also offer valuable one on one time with your little one without the outside pressures of being a grown-up. Dance classes are a space where you and your mini human can bond and enjoy time together without having to worry about ‘life stuff’.

Time with your preschooler is short and precious, make the most of every second and most of all make time to enjoy it!

Jess Child runs BalletBees – dancing together, growing together. Where every child is welcomed, valued and supported in their movement journey. www.jcdanceclasses.com 07305 228770 info@jcdanceclasses.com @jess_jcdanceyoga

Mar 04

Love0

Involve children in gardening

By Iain Boyle Education, environment, Forest School, fun for children, Gardening, Green

by Victoria Rumens
Studio Hummingbird

Cultivating minds and bodies

Gardening is a simple but powerful way to spend quality time with your children while supporting their mental and physical health. In today’s world, where screens often dominate our family life, introducing your little ones to gardening can be a breath of fresh air – literally. A well-designed garden isn’t just a patch of soil; it can be a place of discovery, creativity and joy for children, providing memories that stick with them for life.

Gardening: A calm oasis for young minds
We all want our children to grow up happy and resilient, and spending time outdoors in the garden is a wonderful way to nurture that. Gardening combines physical activity with moments of quiet focus, creating a natural way to unwind. For children, the act of planting seeds or watering flowers can bring a sense of accomplishment and calm. Studies even show that green spaces help reduce stress, improve mood and boost concentration.

Gardening also teaches patience and persistence. Children learn to wait for seeds to sprout and flowers to bloom, showing them the rewards of time and care. For little ones struggling with anxiety or focus, repetitive, hands-on tasks like digging and planting can be especially grounding.

A natural workout
Pulling weeds, pushing wheelbarrows and digging soil are fantastic ways to keep children active and improve their coordination. These tasks also help develop fine and gross motor skills, which are essential in their early years.

Gardening can also spark an interest in healthy eating. When children grow their own vegetables or herbs, they’re far more likely to try them on their plates. Imagine the pride they’ll feel plucking a juicy tomato or picking fresh basil for the family dinner – it’s an experience that nurtures both body and soul.

Reconnecting with nature
Children are naturally curious about the natural world and a garden is the perfect place for them to explore it. Watching a bird build a nest in a birdhouse, noticing how bees buzz around flowers, or learning how compost helps plants grow can ignite a lifelong fascination with nature.

Step away from screens
Let’s face it – it’s tough to compete with the omnipresence of screens. But gardening offers something screens can’t – the joy of creating something real with their own hands. When children see their flowers bloom or vegetables grow, the sense of achievement is unmatched. This hands-on activity can naturally pull children away from devices, offering them a fulfilling and creative way to spend their time. As parents, we can make gardening a family affair. Whether it’s planting a bed of bright flowers or designing a vegetable patch together, these shared experiences build memories and strengthen bonds. Plus, you’ll enjoy the benefits of fresh air and sunshine alongside them.

Make gardening fun
If you’re wondering how to make gardening more exciting for children, here are a few tips to get started:
1. Pick child-friendly plants: Choose plants that grow quickly or are especially colourful and fun, like sunflowers, snapdragons or strawberries. Children love to see fast results and bright colours.
2. Add a playful touch: Create little paths or secret spots for children to explore, like stepping stones leading to a hidden patch of flowers or a ‘fairy garden’ corner.
3. Grow snacks: Edible plants like peas, carrots and cherry tomatoes are easy to grow and give children a tasty reward for their efforts.
4. Use child-sized tools: Smaller spades, gloves and watering cans make gardening more accessible and enjoyable for little ones.
5. Invite wildlife: Bird feeders, a bug hotel or even a small and safe water feature can turn the garden into an exciting habitat. Children will love spotting different creatures and learning about them.

Lifelong lessons in responsibility and growth
Gardening isn’t just about growing plants; it’s about growing life skills. When children take responsibility for watering plants or pulling weeds, they learn how small daily efforts lead to big results. They also see first-hand the importance of caring for living things, fostering empathy and compassion.

Beyond these practical skills, gardening encourages creativity. Whether it’s designing a flower bed or choosing what to plant, children have the chance to express themselves. These moments of decision-making and problem-solving can help build confidence that carries over into other areas of their lives.

The big picture: A healthier future
Introducing your children to gardening now can have a lasting impact. Early exposure to outdoor activities instils a love for fresh air and movement, setting the foundation for an active lifestyle. The connection they develop with nature may also inspire them to make eco-friendly choices as they grow up.

Gardening teaches children to appreciate the world around them and the effort it takes to sustain it. Whether they go on to grow their own gardens or simply carry an appreciation for nature, the seeds you plant today will shape the way they see the world tomorrow.

Victoria Rumens is passionate about promoting sustainability and creating gardens that support family wellbeing. As the owner of Studio Hummingbird with years of experience in designing gardens, she advocates for hands-on learning through nature-based activities.
For further details on Victoria’s work please visit www.studiohummingbird.com

Jan 27

Love0

“… But I’m soooooo bored.” Should boredom be part of your child’s daily routine?

By Iain Boyle Education, family, fun for children, Mental health, play, Playing, Relationships, Wellbeing

by Laura Tristram
www.lumii.me

In today’s fast-paced society, boredom is typically viewed as something negative to be avoided. However, new research from the Child Mind Institute suggests that allowing children to experience boredom can actually be beneficial for both them and their parents.

Why is boredom seen negatively?
Parents, influenced by societal narratives, often perceive boredom as an unproductive and negative state. Being busy is often equated with success, leading to the belief that boredom signifies laziness. However, it’s time to rethink this notion, as boredom can play a significant role in children’s development and mental health. When children are bored, they are prompted to use their imagination and creativity to entertain themselves. This self-directed play fosters curiosity, helps them discover their interests, and enhances their innovative thinking. Research shows that engaging in monotonous tasks can boost creativity when later performing creative activities.

Overcoming challenges
Boredom teaches children resilience by encouraging them to persevere through challenges rather than becoming discouraged. This ability to persist is crucial for facing future obstacles and cultivating a proactive mindset. Dealing with the ‘problem’ of boredom enhances their problem-solving skills and self-reliance, fostering a sense of initiative and independence.

Social skills
Unstructured playtime allows children to interact with peers, developing essential social skills like negotiation, collaboration and communication. These skills are vital for forming relationships and working well with others. Successfully finding ways to entertain themselves boosts children’s confidence, helping them take risks and explore new things, thereby strengthening their self-esteem.

Positive wellbeing
Allowing children time to simply ‘be’ can significantly improve their mental health by reducing anxiety and stress. It gives them the opportunity to process their thoughts and emotions. Unstructured time helps children engage with their surroundings, often resulting in cherished memories and a happier childhood. Despite initial resistance, periods of boredom can lead to a more fulfilling and creative life.

Four easy ways to introduce more boredom
Parents can create opportunities for boredom by resisting the urge to overschedule their children. Here are four tips to help incorporate boredom into a child’s routine:
1. Set aside one day a week without structured activities
Encourage children to create their own activities on this ‘activity detox’ day, helping them explore their interests and creativity.
2. Provide simple toys
Offer materials like blocks, art supplies and household items to inspire creativity and free play.
3. Reduce screen time and encourage outdoor exploration
Take your child to open spaces and allow them to explore independently, fostering a sense of independence and creativity. Limit the use of electronic devices and encourage imaginative play instead.
4. Be a role model
Show how to embrace boredom by engaging in creative activities yourself and limiting your own screen time.

Experiencing boredom helps children develop crucial life skills such as resilience, problem-solving, and creativity, which are essential for their future success and wellbeing. Boredom also helps children build tolerance for less enjoyable experiences and encourages mindfulness, self-reflection and interpersonal communication skills.

It’s a valuable lesson for all: alongside your to-do list, create a ‘let’s be’ list. Make time to be mindfully present with those around you.

Amidst the rushing around, take a moment to walk and clear your head. These idle moments without a to-do list are important for mental clarity and happiness.

For both you and your child, embracing boredom can enhance resilience, creativity and productivity. Could embracing boredom be the antidote to burnout? By incorporating boredom into daily routines, you can help your child develop a happier, more balanced childhood.

So, the next time your child complains of being bored, resist the urge to immediately organise something for them. Instead, embrace the opportunity to foster their creativity, growth and wellbeing.

Laura Tristram is a teacher, mum and mental health and wellbeing lead. For more information please visit www.lumii.me

Nov 08

Love0

Protecting our children from obesity

By Iain Boyle children's health, Food & Eating, fun for children

There’s plenty parents can do to encourage children to enjoy eating a balanced diet filled with healthy foods. Here, children’s cookery book author and Cook School co-founder Amanda Grant shares her top tips for getting children into the kitchen and making healthy eating fun.

As a children’s food writer, mum and step mum, I know first-hand how hard it can be to get children to eat healthily. Asking them to step out of their comfort zone and try new foods can be really challenging, and even if you succeed, their likes and dislikes seem to change day-to-day – sometimes minute-to-minute!

Teaching children about healthy eating and how to make balanced meals that include a variety of fruit and vegetables is the best way to protect their future health.

At Cook School, we work with schools across the UK, through in-person and digital courses, helping children to understand food and teaching them how to make simple, healthy vegetarian meals for themselves and their families.

It’s a project we’re really passionate about. With a better understanding of where food comes from and how to prepare and eat it, children feel more confident helping out at home, and are happier to eat healthier dishes at mealtimes, too.

Luckily, I’ve got a few tricks you can use that will encourage children of all ages to enjoy a better diet and help you out in the kitchen.

1. Help them to understand food
Offering children a ‘behind the scenes’ look at food helps them to understand it better, and encourages them to make different, and hopefully healthier, choices. This could mean anything from visiting at a friend’s allotment or going to a pick-your-own, to simply letting them help you with the weekly food shop.

Even if they turn their nose up at most fruit and vegetables, take them along to your local supermarket and give them time to get familiar with the fruit and vegetable aisles. Ask what they’d like to buy to help them feel more confident about trying new things, and to give them some control over what they’re eating.

You could also make a game of looking for unusual items they’ve never seen or heard of before, or talk about what’s in season right now.

2. Enjoy the benefits of all types of vegetable
The price of fresh fruit and vegetables has sky-rocketed lately – but canned and frozen vegetables are cheaper and more convenient than fresh, and still packed with nutrients. Ask children to help you choose the ones they like the look of, to help you use vegetables to make your meals healthier and more filling. For example, you could stir some frozen spinach into an omelette, throw mixed peas and carrots into pasta water whilst cooking, or top ice cream with frozen berries.

Asking them for their own ideas will really boost their enthusiasm, and if you introduce new foods alongside ones they already know and love, it will encourage them to explore new flavours. Try to serve a portion of vegetables with every dinner, too, as the more familiar a vegetable becomes, the more likely children are to eat it.

3. Ask them to help you in the kitchen
Getting children involved in the kitchen can help keep them occupied, give you valuable time together and help generate a life-long interest in food. Children are much more likely to try new foods they’ve helped to make, while sampling new foods in the kitchen adds less pressure than trying them at the dinner table.

At Cook School, children learn how to prepare food independently, with very little help from an adult. Over 90% of all children who take part in our classes go on to cook what they’ve learnt at home, which is a great first step towards teaching them how to make the right choices for their growing bodies.

4. Teach them the basics
To start with, keep things simple – dishes that don’t require cooking, such as overnight oats or simple toast toppings are ideal practice dishes for younger or less-confident children. They can help you prepare them by taking on tasks like peeling, stirring and grating.

Even making a basic snack can help them learn new skills, boost their confidence and get them used to eating new nutritious foods – think apple slices with peanut butter, hummus and vegetables or crackers with cheese.

Older children who are more confident can be taught how to use knives safely to chop and slice vegetables, and to cook quick, easy dinners – like a basic pasta dish, leftover veg-topped pizza or a tomato rice bowl. You don’t need loads of fancy equipment, either – just the basics will do to start with.

5. Keep up the conversation
Allowing children to help you with shopping and cooking is a great way to start conversations about where our food comes from, what makes a healthy meal and how to reduce food waste.

Using up your leftovers is an eco-friendly money saver, so ask them for their ideas on what to do with anything you don’t use right away – for example, leftover bolognese makes a great topping for baked potatoes. This will not only teach them about the importance of not wasting food, but give you some great ideas for your next healthy meal.

Cook School is a not-for-profit organisation that teaches children across the UK how to prepare simple, healthy meat-free meals for themselves and their families. To date, over 200,000 children have cooked with us and been provided with vital information and access to affordable, healthy recipes.

If you’d like Cook School at your school, find out more at www.cookschool.club

Nov 06

Love0

Unleashing potential – The transformative power of performing arts classes for children

By Iain Boyle dance & Art, Exercise, fun for children, Music and singing, Playing, Theatre, Wellbeing

by The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA)

In an era where academic achievement often takes precedence over creative pursuits, the intrinsic value of performing arts in fostering holistic development in children is frequently overlooked. Performing arts classes – encompassing drama, dance, filmmaking and more – offer far more than an outlet for creativity. They are powerful tools that help children develop self-belief, resilience and a deeper understanding of their true selves.

Building self-belief
One of the most profound impacts of performing arts education is the enhancement of self-belief. In a performing arts class, children are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, take risks and express themselves. This process is transformative, particularly for those who may struggle with self-confidence. Performing in front of peers, teachers and audiences requires a significant amount of courage. Each successful performance, no matter how small, reinforces a child’s belief in their abilities.

Children who participate in performing arts classes learn to trust in their capabilities, both individually and as part of a group. This self-belief often transcends the arts, spilling over into other areas of their lives. They become more willing to take on challenges, speak up in class and engage with their community, buoyed by the confidence gained through their artistic endeavours.

Cultivating resilience
Resilience, the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties, is another crucial trait that performing arts classes help cultivate. The path to a polished performance is rarely smooth. It involves learning new skills, overcoming mistakes and handling constructive criticism – all of which are essential components of resilience.

For instance, a young actor might struggle to remember lines or grapple with stage fright. Through persistent practise and guidance, they learn to manage these challenges, gaining a sense of perseverance and tenacity. This resilience is not confined to the stage; children apply these coping mechanisms to academic pressures, social dynamics and personal setbacks. They learn that failure is not a dead-end but a stepping-stone to growth and improvement.

Discovering their true selves
Performing arts provide a unique platform for self-exploration and expression. Children often grapple with questions about their identity and place in the world. Engaging in the performing arts allows them to explore different facets of their personality in a safe and supportive environment.

Through role-play and character exploration, children can experiment with various aspects of themselves. A shy child might find confidence playing a bold character, or a typically reserved student might discover a passion for expressive movement through dance. These experiences enable children to uncover interests and talents they may not have recognised otherwise.

Moreover, the collaborative nature of the performing arts fosters a sense of belonging and community. Working together to create a performance teaches children about empathy, cooperation and the value of diverse perspectives. This sense of connection and mutual respect is integral to understanding and appreciating their own and others’ identities.

In a world that often prioritises measurable academic success over personal development, performing arts classes offer an invaluable counterbalance. They are not merely extracurricular activities but essential components of a well-rounded education. By helping children develop self-belief, resilience and a deeper understanding of their true selves, performing arts classes lay the foundation for confident, adaptable and empathetic adults.

The stage, the studio, and the rehearsal room are more than spaces for artistic expression; they are crucibles for character development and self-discovery, shaping children into the best versions of themselves.

PQA runs weekend performing arts academies across the UK. Young people (aged 6-18) spend 3 hours experiencing classes in comedy, drama, musical theatre and filmmaking. Children aged 4 and 5 explore the performing arts with their early years classes, Poppets. Try a full session for free at your local academy. www.pqacademy.com

Nov 01

Love0

Panto – a quintessentially British tradition

By Iain Boyle Christmas, Comedy, dance & Art, family, fun for children, panto

by Ellie Harman
Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford

Now the autumn term is in full swing, attention is beginning to turn to Christmas and how to keep the whole family occupied over the festive break. A trip to the panto is an institution for many families and school groups, and for some, Christmas would not be Christmas without this quintessentially British tradition. Panto is often the first experience of theatre as a child, and an experience that will often stick with someone for the rest of their life.

Pantomime has its roots in Italy and Ancient Greece, evolving from the Italian ‘Commedia dell’Arte’ which originated in the 16th century. These performances featured masked characters, slapstick style comedy, music and acrobatics, all of which are familiar aspects of today’s pantomime. But, whilst present-day pantomime performances are always jam-packed with eccentric, colourful characters, singing, dancing and quick-witted humour for children and adults alike, watching a panto has life-long benefits for young people.

Studies have proven that children who visit theatres when they are young are more likely to continue engaging with live theatre throughout their lives, which in turn has been proven to improve mental health. A recent survey by Norwich Theatre found that by seeing a pantomime at Christmas, the survey respondents experienced a significant boost in their mood, with over 80% feeling happier after the performance. Arts engagement more generally has been shown to enhance positive mental health and life satisfaction. The international children’s charity UNICEF suggests that “Dancing and singing are great ways to relieve stress. When you’re enjoying fun moments and laughing together, your body releases endorphins that promote a feeling of wellbeing.”

Pantomime is also a great introduction to the theatre and gives children the chance to learn the etiquette of public spaces in a more relaxed environment than a traditional play. The unique nature of a pantomime encourages children to get involved in the fun, singing along and shouting out “He’s behind you” and “Oh no it isn’t” at every possible opportunity. In a world that’s increasingly screen-based, the opportunity for young people to express themselves in a safe environment is invaluable for developing social skills, building self-esteem and making sense of the world.

Many people may see a trip to the panto as just a treat rather than a learning experience, but at the core of every pantomime is a heart-warming moral lesson too. Robin Hood, for example, tells a story of being courageous, standing up for injustice and helping those less fortunate than ourselves. Pantomime producers also often incorporate current topics and issues into the show, so as well as joyful entertainment that honours the traditional art form, pantomimes can also raise awareness of the challenges we may face. Teaching children these stories in a creative way not only helps develop their character but also widens their scope of ways to learn in the future, cultivating their creative mind-sets and all the while bringing joy and lasting festive memories.

Many children are visual learners, so pantomime provides a fantastic visual representation that they are more likely to remember. Dr Natasha Kirkham from Birkbeck University found that experiencing a story on stage rather than viewing it on a screen leads to a deeper understanding of the content. Similarly, a study by the University of Arkansas found students get significant educational benefits from seeing live theatre as opposed to watching a film, including improved vocabulary, and greater knowledge of the content. Representation matters, and diverse, inclusive casts, that represent the communities for which they are performing is important. For children, to see people on stage that look like them can be inspiring, empowering and confidence boosting.

This Christmas, many theatres are ensuring nobody is left out of the festivities by offering ‘relaxed performances’. Relaxed performances are adapted in several ways to make them more comfortable for people with Autism or learning difficulties, or who may benefit from a calmer environment. It’s also perfect for very young children who haven’t been to the theatre before. Adaptations to the performance include keeping the main lights on throughout the performance, allowing audience members to come and go as they please, providing a quiet break-out room, adjusting light and sound levels and removing audience interaction from the show. Many theatres have British Sign Language interpreted performances for deaf audience members, and a Dementia Friendly performance, so the whole family can enjoy the show.

So, at a time when the pressures put on young people are perhaps greater than ever, why not consider a trip to the theatre this Christmas? Pantomime provides a chance for children to come together with all generations to see a live show which will make everyone laugh and feel happy, inspire imaginations and encourage the next generation of performers and audiences.

The magic of pantomime is something the whole family can enjoy and at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford it’s always wonderful to see multi-generational families in the audience. The theatre has lots of upcoming family shows so please visit www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk to find out what’s on.

Aug 15

Love0

Beyond the barn doors – a day in the life of a livestock worker

By Iain Boyle Education, environment, Exercise, Family Farms, Food & Eating, Forest School, fun for children, Green, Mental health, Uncategorized

by Nicola Henderson
Godstone Farm

Amongst the hustle and bustle of a busy attraction, there’s often work behind the scenes that visitors don’t see or appreciate. Welcome to a world where hard work can indeed be fun, where the welfare of animals reigns supreme and the bond between human and animal is fascinating.

Contrary to popular belief, the life of a livestock worker is not merely about mucking out, getting muddy and driving around in a tractor. It is about forging connections – building trust with our four-legged friends and fostering an environment where they thrive. Every stroke of the brush, every scoop of feed, is an opportunity to nurture this bond, reminding us of the huge part we play in the lives of these creatures.

Let’s go down on the farm and take a look at a typical day:

7.30am: As the sun climbs overhead, and the animals are waking up, the first shift of workers arrive at the farm – this assumes it’s a ‘quiet’ time of the year, and there’s no lambing or other babies due to be born. First job of the day is to open all enclosures, cages, hutches and sheds. The animals are locked away safely at night due to the continual threat of hungry foxes.

8.30am: The hungry animals receive breakfast, fresh water and a visual check. The visual check ensures the animals are acting as they should, have no cuts or abrasions and are moving around well. This time is a chance for the animals to familiarise themselves with their care givers once again and build on previously built trust. Many of the smaller animals will be handled regularly to ensure they are comfortable should any first aid or medicine need to be administered in the future. Larger animals are handled too but often with four feet still on the ground, and with two or more workers to ensure everyone’s safety.

10am: The cleaning starts! Some animals will get a spot clean, others will be due for a full muck out – it’s not hard to guess that the smelliest of all are the pigs! Mucking out isn’t just to ensure the enclosure is clean to look at and smells fresh, it also ensures the welfare of the animals. A dirty environment can contribute towards skin conditions, foot issues and spread of infectious diseases. After removing all soiled straw, pens are disinfected, and then new bedding is laid. You’ll often see the animals return to a clean bed and have a good sniff or roll around, it’s their sign of appreciation! This time spent mucking out is another opportunity to strengthen the bond between human and animal, inquisitive characters will often want to ‘help’ and it’s not unusual to see a pig steal a broom or a pony with its head in the wheelbarrow.

As the team make their way around the farm cleaning and caring for livestock, they also need to ensure the customer facing areas of the farm are ready. Customer facing areas include those where up-close interactions happen, where a trail can be followed and where bespoke experiences take place.

11.30am: The hay run! With bags piled high with hay the tractor embarks on a journey to those harder to reach areas, the further afield fields, where sheep, cows, goats and horses graze. It’s a fun part of the job, using a vehicle to get around but it can be a challenge in wet weather when the fields get muddy.

1pm: After the wheelbarrows are emptied, the paths are swept, and the buckets are washed its finally time for lunch! This is the human’s lunch time, most animals don’t get lunch, only breakfast and dinner, unless they are on medication or have a very special diet. With such physical exertion the livestock team will enjoy a hearty lunch, often microwaving leftovers and filling up on treats bought by the management team. They are particularly partial to a donut or cupcake, and it can’t be denied that they burn off the calories!

1.30pm: It’s time to get ready for any behind the scenes experiences that day – this might be the chance for budding young farmers to work with the team, or for grown-ups to feed the meerkats. For example, if the meerkats are being fed by special visitors, then a gourmet snack will be prepared, this will be tasty grubs and worms. The visitors will get to sit inside the enclosure and feed the meerkats via tongs (just in case of any fingers that look remarkably like worms). Whilst a farm will prioritise its animals living as nature intended, in genuine habitats and won’t want all its animals to be tame, some experiences do help ensure that the animals aren’t fearful of human contact. This is especially helpful if they are taken unwell. Have you ever tried to catch a wild meerkat?!

4pm: After time spent imparting knowledge and engaging with customers, it’s back to the heavy and dirty work. Most of the animals require an evening feed. This is an opportunity for a further visual check (in depth health checks are done routinely as well) and water will be replenished. Unless it’s a particularly hot evening each animal will be put to bed after their dinner, but only once their bed has been checked for extra comfiness. Animals are kept for many reasons, but generally a lot of the animals in a farm attraction will be pets and everyone will have their favourites of course!

5-6pm: Depending on the time of year the livestock workers finish their day and head home for a well-deserved bath and rest. It all starts again tomorrow. Animals need caring for 24/7, 365 days a year so taking on a farm, smallholding or even a family pet is a decision to be well considered.

Godstone Farm enjoys welcoming customers to visit their many animals with engagement and education at its heart. The farm often recruits for roles working with the livestock team but can also offer advice for anyone lookingto keep an animal as a pet. www.godstonefarm.co.uk

Aug 12

Love0

The importance of play in Early Years education

By Iain Boyle Early Years, Education, fun for children, Mental health, play, Playing

by Ivana Colvin
Little Chicks Teacher, Chinthurst School Nursery

As parents and educators, we often find ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of schedules, milestones and academic expectations for our little ones. In the pursuit of ensuring a bright future for our children, we might unintentionally overlook one of the most powerful tools at our disposal – play.

In the UK, the Early Years education system places a strong emphasis on the importance of play-based learning. In the best Early Years settings, play should not be considered a break from structured activities, rather it should be at the centre of fostering development, curiosity and a lifelong love for learning. At home, play is vital too, supporting your child’s growth, health and happiness.

One of the greatest gifts of play is its ability to nurture social skills. In the classroom and on the school playground, children learn to navigate social interactions, share, co-operate and challenge with their peers. These skills form the bedrock of healthy relationships and contribute to a positive learning environment. At home, family playtime is an ideal way to reinforce these social skills in a more intimate setting. Board games, collaborative projects and shared activities provide opportunities for your child to practice communication and teamwork with siblings and parents.

The Early Years curriculum also recognises the importance of nurturing creativity, and play is the perfect gateway to unlocking the boundless imagination which exists within each child. Creative activities embedded in the curriculum allow children to explore various forms of expression, from art and music to storytelling and drama. At home, opportunities for creative play are endless. Simple activities like drawing, crafting and storytelling stimulate a child’s imagination and encourage them to think outside the box. By embracing creativity in play, we cultivate a mindset that values innovation and problem-solving, vital skills for future learning.

In an age dominated by screens, finding a balance between technology and real-world play is crucial. The Early Years curriculum acknowledges the role of technology but emphasises that it should complement, not replace, hands-on, interactive play. Both at school and at home, we should strive to create an environment where technology is used as a tool to enhance learning rather than as a substitute for real-world experiences. By setting limits on screen time and actively engaging in screen-free play, we can foster a healthy relationship with technology from an early age.

Play also offers a safe space for children to express and regulate their emotions. Whether engaging in pretend play or co-operative games, children learn to manage their feelings and develop resilience in navigating various social situations. This emotional regulation is a vital part of their healthy growth and development, laying the groundwork for a successful and happy life at school and beyond.

As we reflect on the importance of play, both at school and at home, it is important to recognise the symbiotic relationship that exists between these two environments. By focusing on play, parents and Early Years practitioners hold the key to unlocking a child’s full potential.

It is through play that children not only discover the world around them but also uncover the limitless possibilities within themselves. Play strengthens the bond between parents and children and helps to build close relationships between a child and their teacher. Through shared play experiences, parents and teachers can connect with their children, provide support and guidance, and create lasting memories together.

In the midst of laughter and games, the foundations for a future defined by curiosity, resilience and a love for learning are built. So, the next time you find your living room transformed into a magical kingdom or a construction site, embrace the chaos and join in the play! In those moments of shared joy, you’re not just playing – you are actively participating in the profound process of shaping a brighter, more vibrant future for your child.

Chinthurst is an independent school and nursery based in Tadworth, close to Epsom, Banstead, Kingswood and Reigate. It is a junior school of Reigate Grammar School. www.chinthurstschool.co.uk

fun for children

The importance of physical activity on children’s mental wellbeing

by Debbie Webb,
Founder of Activ8 For Kids