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Issue 125 November-December 2018 familiesonline.co.uk FW125 November-December 2018 _FW124 October 2018 05/11/2018 16:42 Page 2

In this issue... There is a tingle in the air in West London, the excitement of the holiday season is here and we are back with our issue full of ideas - from great gifts to buy for your little ones to where to go and what to do with your family over the holidays. Start your planning with us!

2 News & Views 12 Indoor winter fun

4 Supporting your 14 Where’s Santa this child with friendship Christmas? 5 Play OR structured learning 16 What’s On in West London 6 Equipping our children for a digital 19 Beneficial activities After School Nannies for the kids future - Franchise Opportunities 8 20 Classified ads and Weaning your baby Party listings At After School Nannies, not surprisingly, they’re passionate about after school care. Managed well there’s no limit to what 10 Those MUST HAVE Christmas toys! adults can help children achieve in those hours out of school! “We all want the best for our children - particularly when we can’t be there to give it to them ourselves. It’s no secret that after school nannies don’t grow on trees but we’ve spent over fifteen years sourcing excellent candidates for thousands of families across West London. We know where to look and what qualities make the best candidates. Our world may have changed considerably since 2003 when we were founded, but the needs of children at the end of the school day remain the same as they have been for longer than we’ve been in business. Our challenge now is to expand our provision. To enable more families to try our particular brand of after school care - because it works. Time and again, tried and tested.” That is why they’re launching their long-awaited Franchise programme, initially reaching out to Front cover image credit: the rest of London and the Home Counties and then, well, Skate School and Polar Bear Club at Somerset House. “Watch this space”… Or better still, join them! www.somersethouse.org.uk For more information email: [email protected]

A daily mile improves children’s health... An initiative to get schoolchildren to walk or run a mile every day leads to significant improvements in their health, according to a study. The Daily Mile scheme was originally the brainchild of a Scottish head teacher who started it in 2012. Researchers at Stirling University compared the health of children at a primary school taking part in the scheme with those at a school that wasn’t participating. The children wore accelerometers which recorded how much moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) they were undertaking every day, and for how long they were sedentary. Children who were doing the Daily Mile were significantly healthier than those who were not. According to the Daily Mile Foundation, more than 3,600 schools worldwide have introduced the initiative, including about 1,200 in England, 770 in Scotland, 210 in Wales, 85 in Northern Ireland and more than 100 in the Republic of Ireland. More info at: www.stir.ac.uk and: www.thedailymile.co.uk

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News & Views New reception test criticised Children who start Reception in September 2020 will be the first group to take the new Reception test, a baseline measure to track pupils’ progress during primary school. It is proposed that it will take place during the first 6 weeks of the autumn term. Guidelines recently released by the Government say the new reception baseline assessment will be short (about 20 minutes), interactive and practical. It will cover language and communication, early mathematics and social and behavioural skills. However, the proposed test has been Christmas really isn’t criticised in a report written by an expert panel and published by the British Education Christmas until you've Research Association. chosen your REAL tree! The report’s authors say that the assessment is highly likely to produce unreliable and invalid results, as it fails to recognise that young children develop at different paces and The experts at Pines and Needles doesn't adjust for key factors, such as differences in ages and family background. (wearing kilts!) will be on hand to give Add to this the fact that teachers and practitioners are likely to become more pressured to advice at their stores in Ealing, Fulham 'teach to the test', and it is difficult to see how baseline results will have any real value. Broadway, Maida Vale and Notting Hill More info available at: www.bera.ac.uk from the 19th of November. Pay them a visit and let them get the festivities well Beat head lice and nits with the Bug Buster Kit and truly underway. It’s a great family If your children have had head lice before, then you may have been put off using day out and they even have a delivery expensive neuro-toxic pesticides on their heads. Bug Busting is a head louse service from their stores to local detection and eradication method, which works by combining specially designed postcodes for an extra cost-enquire in bevel-edged combs with your own family shampoo and conditioner. store for more details. The Bug Busting method detects and clears lice completely without special treatments, It couldn’t be easier! Their stores are removes lice systematically, breaking the re-stocked every morning with dozens life-cycle in four sessions spaced over two Arabic for Women of trees, freshly cut and delivered weeks and eliminates unsightly eggshells and Children straight from their plantations. “You comfortably. won't get fresher, fuller or more The Bug Buster Kit is NHS approved and Families welcome – fabulous trees anywhere else!” safe for babies, children, pregnant women, Goal Oriented USE CODE: FESTIVE18 to get your nursing mothers and those with allergies. free gift with purchase. It costs £6.40 plus p&p but is reusable - • Dynamic • Innovative For more details of opening dates and only one kit is required per family. • E ective • Native Female times go to: To order a kit or for further information Teacher (& mother of 3!) www.pinesandneedles.com/pages/ and advice, visit Community Hygiene real-christmas-tree-stores-london Concern (CHC) at: www.chc.org Call Reem on or call: 01908 561928. Stores are located at: 07956 845 053 • Christ The Saviour Church, Ealing Broadway, W5 2XA • St John's Church, North End Road, SW6 1PB • 123 Shirland Road, Maida Vale, W9 2EW • St John's Notting Hill, Landsdowne Crescent, W11 2PD

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Supporting your child with friendship challenges By Lianna Champ

Life and relationships are not always easy and we learn our skills as children, watching the interactions of our parents and other adults in our lives. What we learn as children then sets our patterns of relating in adulthood.

Falling out with friends is normal during childhood and it is through struggling with friendship challenges that our children learn about themselves, relation- ships and how best to interact with others. Through experience, children also learn how to set boundaries - what they will or will not accept in a friendship. We cannot make these decisions for our children but we can guide them gently and encourage them to use their instinct, intuition and intellect. friendships. friends - and that new people them robs them of the chance As we grow up, it is healthy that are constantly coming into our to learn valuable life lessons. The most important thing we our friendship groups grow and lives. As we navigate life we Equally, do not make them feel can do when our children are diversify. Our needs change and can’t expect to get everything like victim in a relationship as struggling with friendship issues different people provide different we need from one friendship, this can prevent them from is to listen. Falling out with their things. Learning how to be a which is why we need quite a taking responsibility in relation- friends can feel like the worse friend is like learning anything few to fulfil our needs. ships later in life. Encouraging thing in the world. Saying else. Sharing your own stories new activities and providing anything negative about their of your own friendship Children have a tendency to arenas for new friendships can friends at this point will only experiences can be helpful, think about things over and over give your child confidence in cause your child to withdraw and showing your children that again. Gently reflect back to their ability to make new friends can create further emotional friendships can hit a rocky patch them using clear language how and be a good friend. confusion for them. Gently which has to be worked through. they are feeling and what encouraging your child to talk happened. Try a bit of role play Studies show that children who about their feelings can help to Help your children to understand around a friendship challenge have healthy relationships with identify areas of conflict, the importance of sharing, taking which can help your child see the adults in their lives are more disagreement or unfairness someone else’s feelings into what is happening more objec- likely to make sound decisions which may have led to the fall account and listening to each tively. If you think your child’s about friendship, because they out. other. It’s important that children behaviour was the catalyst for a understand things like empathy learn about allowing their friends fall out, role play can help them and mutual respect, and they Ask what they think went wrong. the privilege of sharing their learn how to be a better friend in have better problem-solving Do they think they could have feelings without being judged. the future. It can also help them skills. reacted differently? Do they feel Teach your children that their see more clearly whether they So above all, nurture your own that they did nothing wrong? friends should also allow them were at fault. relationship with your children When friends fall out, it doesn’t this privilege too. Always take an interest in your and others in your family. necessarily mean any of the child’s friendships and if you children in the mix did anything We can teach our children to sense something out of the wrong. Fall outs just happen and decide whether a friendship is ordinary, be there as a buffer. Lianna Champ has over they can happen all the time! worth persevering with or But avoid taking sides, actively 40 years’ experience in Girls especially can change whether it’s best to just walk interfering or taking decisions bereavement and grief recovery. away. Don’t be afraid to talk for your child about their friend- friends quickly, moving from one Her new book How to Grieve to another in succession. about the differences between ships. Working through their Like a Champ is out now priced There is an important lesson healthy and toxic relationships. experiences is an extremely £9.99. More information at: here too - that friendships grow It’s important to help children important part of growing up and change and sometimes understand that there are and a learning curve for adult- www.champfunerals.com come to an end. Children are different kinds of friends too - hood and taking this away from still developing and so must their best, great, good and casual

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Play or structured learning in the early years?

In England, the current Early all smooth sailing. The children Years Foundation Stage often disagreed about how to curriculum stipulates a 50/50 construct the dwellings and tem- balance between child-centred, pers flared when some children play-based learning and ‘borrowed’ things from one den to adult-led learning. improve their own, but the whole Writes Maxine Henderson process was fascinating to observe. Our carers were on hand Over the years there have been to support the children - making adding furniture to create observations to be made about individuals who question the sure they were safe and allowing narratives for their games. each child and to organise adult- system and look to introduce new them to negotiate between them- led activities which are appropriate ideas. For example Liz Truss, a selves. When necessary, they A mixture of adult-led and play- for both the development of former Education and Childcare offered suggestions to help the based learning is important for the individual children and the group. Minister, championed the children make decisions, but they development of every child. Inevitably, this forces settings to introduction of a French-style provided choices rather than The individual child needs to learn move to a classroom-style ‘structured learning’ approach, answers. They also asked open structure and rules, and participate environment in which, sadly, with a graduate-led workforce questions throughout the process as part of group but they also need children lose vital free-play learn- responsible for larger groups of such as: time to explore their own interests, ing and development opportunities. children, and a reduced child-to- likes and dislikes and see where carer ratio. Whilst the benefits of a How many pegs have you used? they fit into the whole. more highly qualified workforce are How is this staying up? Maxine Henderson is a indisputable, there are other What does your sign say? When considering the introduction Childcare Expert at Tinies considerations. If teachers are The learning that took place that of new ways of learning for Childcare, a leading childcare responsible for larger groups then afternoon was incredible - the children, it’s important to consider specialist with over 30 years’ opportunities for vital play-based children were self-motivated, the impact this can have on the learning are reduced. interested in the task and invested experience helping families, individual development of a child, nurseries and other childcare in a positive outcome. In adult-led as well as the changes that will Whilst the ‘structured learning’ learning, we often meet resistance, need to be made to group settings find the right childcare model is hailed for its effectiveness as a child does not want to learning. For example, increasing professionals to suit their needs. in socialising children, teaching complete the task in the way that the number of children each For more information, visit: them manners, and creating a we expect. However, this leads to worker has in their care makes it www.tinies.com calm, organised atmosphere, it is other teaching opportunities and is more difficult for detailed not an environment in which young equally as important as play-based children learn best. And it definitely learning. The two work well in doesn’t encourage them to be tandem, giving the children inquisitive, self-motivated learners. opportunities to develop core skills, find their own strengths and Children need to practise become well-rounded individuals. negotiating with each other and Currently observations are made experience problem solving about a child’s development while situations, without the direct they play, helping carers plan supervision of an adult. If they are structured learning activities unable to practise these skills in relevant to that child’s free play, they become too reliant development. on adults to both intervene for them in social situations and to These observations include the motivate and inspire them to learn. individual interests, abilities and levels of assistance required by A great example of the benefits of each child. This makes it possible play-based learning happened in to organise interesting, achievable one of our nursery settings but challenging adult-led activities recently. I observed the children for each child, taking account of carrying large construction blocks, their preferred learning style and lengths of fabric, pegs and sticky developmental level. tape out of the building and realised they were busy working During the den-building activity, together to construct a range of carers were able to identify which interestingly shaped homes in the children: garden, entirely from their own • Confidently led the action imaginations. • Preferred to watch • Were interested in creating the Some children were making signs tents and dens, to indicate who lived where; others • Disappeared when all the were adding connecting tunnels building and mending was done and others still were creating • Wanted to play in the dens when places for everyone to sit and a they were completed, delegating welcoming atmosphere. It wasn’t characters to each other and

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Equipping our children for a future

Analysts Gartner have predicted that £19bn will be spent globally on educational technology by 2019. But are we sure that this will make our children better prepared to succeed in the future? Will they possess the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digitalised world? By Casey Farquharson

Coding is a key tech skill which can help prepare our children for the future. Yet, according to an article in The Guardian, over 67% of primary and secondary school teachers believe they cannot teach coding because of a lack of 'skills and teaching tools.’ Many schools simply don't have personnel with the required have these attributes. The point Social learners - Individuals when it comes to education lies skills and understanding to teach here is not that tablets are bad that respond to teachers who are in technology being utilised in a pupils how to code. There is an or not useful, but that they inquisitive and ask what they are supportive capacity, as against a urgent need for more investment should never be utilised as a thinking and feeling about key leading one. in the education sector to train be-all and end-all. Technology topics and concepts. Search teachers to code; to attract more should not be a foundation of engines such Google, Google If we want our children to individuals to learn and teach learning, but rather an enabler assistant and Siri can be utilised succeed in the future, then we coding; and to equip schools, and a catalyst. to maximise their learning must protect their emotional and both secondary and primary, experience. psychological wellbeing. It is with the necessary hardware There are seven learning styles* time to take responsibility for that need to be understood and Solitary listeners - individuals educating children, not only on However, it isn’t all about embraced if our primary-age that are more comfortable the distinct dangers of the digital technology. Yes, we want our children are to get the most sorting out problems on their world but also on the importance children to have good tech and from their technology learning own. Videos, online tutorials of the true foundations of posi- digital skills, but character, experiences: and audio learning can be tive self-esteem. In order for our creativity, and social skills are utilized to optimize their learning children to prosper in the future also vital. No matter how Aural Listeners - individuals experience. it is absolutely vital that we digitalised the world becomes, that respond primarily to sound. improve and preserve their these three attributes of success Technology can be utilized to Verbal listeners - individuals emotional well-being - and cannot be compromised. effectively engage with such who absorb information more appropriate technology training individuals via the use of pod- effectively via verbal instruction. and learning scenarios can play The components of character casts and audio teaching tools. Innovative technology such as a part in that education. are courage, determination, the Siri, Cortana and Ok Google audacity to be different, focus, Logical learners - individuals can be utilized to teach such *Source: and the ability to ask questions with logical and organized individuals. www.educationdegree.com and make one’s own decisions. minds. Mind mapping technology With creativity comes problem can be effectively utilized to Visual learners - individuals solving skills, innovation, critical improve their learning that learn more effectively with thinking, and the ability to think Casey Farquharson is the experience. pictures and imagery. Tablets outside the box. Rapport and founder of IDEAS Bus, an and virtual reality technology relationship building, the ability interactive educational platform Physical learners - individuals can be utilized to optimize their to effectively express oneself (on wheels!) designed to help who respond to words that incite learning experience. both orally and in writing, educators discover the latest feeling and activity. They like to confidence and collaboration are cutting-edge learning technology understand what it feels like to It’s clear from the above that key components of social skills. go through the motions of what technology has the potential to and students to get hands on they are learning. Virtual reality be an effective enabler of coding, tech and digital media Plying our children with tablets technology can be utilized to specific and overall learning experience. More info at: and other forms of tech hard- optimize their learning experiences. However, the key http://theideasbus.org.uk ware is most definitely not a experience. to its sustained effectiveness sure-proof way to ensure they

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Weaning your baby

Blending, storing, mashing Has developed sufficient hand- with a little breast/formula milk to new food 10 to 15 times before and messy highchairs are all to-eye coordination to look at ease the transition. they are willing to eat it. part of the exciting journey food, pick it up and put it in her of weaning! mouth. From 6 months, your baby will Reflux and Allergies Is showing an interest in what need more than just fruit and Around 50% of all babies From around 6 months, a baby’s you are eating. vegetables and you will need to experience some reflux during regular milk will no longer Has lost the tongue-thrust reflex make sure you start to introduce their first 3 months, but, it will provide them with all the (automatically pushing solids out iron rich foods like meat, lentils, prove to be a problem for only nutrients they need - in of her mouth with her tongue) eggs and iron-enriched cereals a very few and they will usually particular, essential fatty acids and is able to swallow food. as well as foods rich in Essential outgrow it. Gastro-oesophageal and iron - and their stores of Fatty Acids from oily fish like reflux can sometimes be a sign these start to deplete. So now is Best First Foods salmon. of cow’s milk protein allergy so the time to begin weaning, as First foods should be simple, The transition to solids is more look out for the signs and missing nutrients need to be easy to digest, and unlikely to about introducing food than symptoms and seek advice from provided by food. provoke an allergic reaction. I giving a full meal. Your baby will your doctor if you are concerned. would recommend starting with a still need at least 600ml of Getting Started single ingredient, ideally a fruit or breast milk or formula each day Childhood food allergies are Every baby develops at their vegetable. Root vegetables like until they are at least 12 months increasing but the actual own pace but here are few key carrots, sweet potato and butter- old when their diet is varied incidence of food allergy in signs that your baby is ready for nut squash are very popular; enough to offer the correct babies is very small - about 5 to weaning: they have a naturally sweet balance of nutrients. 6%. Babies and children also Your baby: flavour (similar to breastmilk) Please don’t worry about picky tend to grow out of allergies like Can hold her head steady and and can easily be puréed to a eaters - we’ve all been there! cow’s milk or egg allergy by sit up with minimal supervision smooth texture. Try mixing them Your baby may need to try a ages 2 or 3.

Lemon Tree and St Matthew’s Montessori schools based in Ealing Broadway offering both full day care (8.00am-6.00pm) and term time (9.15am-3.15am) for children aged from 1.5 years to 5 years old. We offer French, Ballet, Yoga, Drama and PE inclusive of fees. Full and part time sessions available. Qualified and experienced teachers offer a high standard of learning, nurturing and care.

Lemon Tree Montessori: 07495 898 760 (Full Day Care) St Matthew’s Montessori: 07856 364153 (Term Time) Website: www.lemontreemontessori.com

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By Annabel Karmel

If your baby is at high risk e.g. To help them tackle texture, try and spoon feeding altogether. has bad eczema, then it’s sensi- finely dicing and softening small Babies can explore a variety of ble to get allergy testing done cubes of carrot or apple so their different tastes and textures from just before weaning to help gums can squash them when the beginning, helping them to guide safe introduction of they try to chew. Be careful of eat a wide range of foods and common allergenic foods such surprise chunks as these can develop good eating habits. as milk, egg and peanut. For really startle your baby and put babies with no history then these them off. Making your own baby As well as soft finger foods, you foods should be introduced from food will allow you to control the can offer a mini portion of a 6 months. size of the lumps and in turn, family meal (without the salt). gradually increase their size. Cottage pie, risotto or chicken element of baby-led weaning If your baby’s diet is restricted curry are all ideal (and tasty) alongside spoon feeding if you for any reason, it’s important to With my son Nicholas I soon options. feel that’s right for you and your seek professional advice to realised that if I added baby baby. ensure that they are still getting pasta shapes to his favourite Don’t worry about how much or all the essential vitamins and puree then he was more how little your baby eats at the Annabel Karmel is a leading minerals they need. Iron, Fats, receptive because it was a beginning; as long as they are children’s cookery author and Protein, Essential Fatty Acids, flavour he was familiar with. experiencing a variety of Carbohydrates, Zinc and Vitamin Give rice or couscous a go too. tastes/textures and eating lots feeding expert. Her book, D are all essential to include in of different nutritious foods then Weaning (DK £12.99) includes their diet from 6 months. Baby-led or spoon-led? you’re on the right track! everything you need to know Whilst a high percentage of about traditional and baby-led Tackling Texture parents start out with spoon-led Remember that no ‘one-size-fits- weaning, advice on when to From around 6 to 9 months purees, baby-led weaning (BLW) all’ with weaning. Some people start, critical nutrients, how to babies are developing quite is fast growing in popularity. decide to go with one method or cater for allergies and intoler- rapidly, so introduce as many the other, but I’ve always ances, and more than 60 healthy different nutritious foods, The BLW philosophy is to let believed that you don’t have to and delicious recipes. Available flavours and textures as possible your baby feed herself from 6 choose. At around 6 months, you from all good bookstores. during this time. months, missing out on purees have the freedom to combine an

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This year’s MUST HAVE CHRISTMAS

Every year, desperate parents exhaust themselves searching high and low for the most wanted toys on their child’s Christmas list. To avoid last minute panic and possible disappointment, GUIDE! the key is to do your research and start shopping early. To help you get prepared, we’ve put together a guide to our Families top ten favourite Christmas toys for 2018. 2 By Claire Winter

1. Dino Fingerling (£16.99) www.argos.co.uk Age: 6+ This year WowWee Toys' popular Fingerlings are all about dinosaurs (or mythical unicorns, if you fancy something a little less fierce). The dinos respond to motion and sound and 3. Chow Crown Game (£24.99) are bound to be a massive hit. www.argos.co.uk Age: 5+ 2. LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Set (£89.99) A silly game for the whole family. The hat plays www.amazon.co.uk music, and while the beats are going, the crown Age: 9-15 spins round, and the wearer has to eat as many Lego and Harry Potter in the same box, what’s of the food items attached to the forks as not to love? If you've got a wizard-mad child at possible. A game that’s most fun when hunger home, this 878-piece set will allow them to looms, you are in charge of loading the food recreate the magic of Hogwarts. This lovely set items on to the forks. You can choose tasty has lots of detail that will give Harry Potter fans treats like marshmallows and strawberries or hours of fun. items that might not be so palatable! Great fun for parties and sleepovers too. 4 4. Pie Face Cannon (£26.99) www.amazon.co.uk Age: 5+ Pie Face continues to make the Christmas list year after year, and 2018 looks to be no different. This year you can buy a Pie Face Cannon. The cannon fires a pie every time, and it’s up to the contestant to use the red hand to stop getting “pied.” 1 A great game to play after Christmas dinner! Pies away! 3 5

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5. The Poopsie Unicorn Surprise (£49.99) 7. Ani-Mate Mini Movie Maker Kit (£14.99) www.amazon.co.uk www.findmeagift.co.uk Age: 3+ Age: 8+ 9 Mums and dads across the country will be Create quirky little movies with your own phone delighted to find this defecating unicorn on and this ingenious Mini Movie Maker Kit. Christmas lists! The Poopsie Unicorn Surprise It includes modelling clay, modelling tools is a ‘cute’ toy that poops out glittery slime when and googly eyes to make your own kooky you feed it special unicorn food. While I can characters, and backdrops so kids can hear parents visibly groaning, this is sure to be create their own film. This is a great a hit with unicorn-lovers everywhere. Plus if you present or stocking filler for a budding are worried about getting unicorn glitter poo all animator or storyteller. over your carpet on Christmas day, never fear, the toy comes with its own potty!

9. Gravitrax (£48.29) www.amazon.co.uk Age: 8+ A cool game that encourages kids to boost 6 their STEM skills. Use your imagination to 8 build superb tracks and set the Gravity Spheres rolling! The game combines physics, architecture, and engineering, to engage and improve young minds. You can also buy 6. Densters (£19.99) additional packs to extend the system. www.firebox.com A great buy for kids that love building, marble Age: 3+ runs and Lego. All children love building a den! This great kit allows kids to set up their own hideaway in minutes. The set contains flexible toy monsters 10 so you can create a magical den from everyday household items. It’s a great way to get your kids off a gadget!

8. VTech Kiddizoom Smart Watch (£44.99) www.amazon.co.uk Age: 4+ 10. My Rebounder Mini Rebounding This cool watch features a camera for photo Trampoline (£89.99) and video taking, 3D style digital and analogue www.myrebounder.co.uk clock faces and eight great games. It also has Age 4+ a motion sensor for a pedometer so they can Classic fun, these rebounders (small 7 measure their steps. The watch also has a trampolines) will keep kids active all year round calculator, calendar, alarm, stopwatch and and can be used inside and out. They help voice recorder. improve strength, balance, co-ordination and Plus the option to download more apps and general fitness. They can also be folded, so games! they won’t take up too much room.

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Winter Fun - Indoors! By Claire Winter

During the winter months, there’s no avoiding spending much more time indoors. It’s tempting to allow the kids to while away the time on devices or playing on their Xbox. But there are ways of keeping your kids off their screens and still having fun, even within the four walls of your own home.

kitchen. This activity is or biscuits would obviously satisfyingly messy and great fun. be more appropriate. Get your children to research how to make the best slime or Play Cards play-doh on YouTube (it’s for Teach the kids the card games educational purposes after all!). you used to play as a child. If you can’t get them interested in Get Cooking Patience or Gin Rummy, look up If you aren’t keen on the slime some cool card tricks for them idea, get the kids to cook you a to learn and show their friends. meal instead. This is satisfying for them but also a treat for you Make Special Cards (hopefully!). Suggest they plan Get out the art supplies and a three-course meal for dinner. card and make some Christmas Get them to design a menu and and birthday cards. Why don’t research how to make the you get creative with Origami? dishes online or refer to some My kids love making butterflies Here’s Families guide to some people to make it more realistic. recipe books. I think getting and birds and sticking them fun bad-weather-day activities. Set Up an Indoor Treasure Hunt them to look in the fridge and onto cards. Write some cryptic clues and come up with some dishes with Make a Cardboard Town hide a treasure trail of items for ingredients you already have Have a Kitchen Disco Get hold of a giant cardboard them to find. They may want to teaches them a great a life skill My favourite thing to do on a box or add lots of small ones design one for you to do too! too. A pasta sauce or an apple rainy day is to have a party in together to make a town using Make Slime crumble are tasty, rewarding but the kitchen. Choose the most large felt tips or paint. Let their Batten down the hatches, get the simple dishes to make. If you appropriate room in your house imaginations run riot, and they aprons out and be prepared for have smaller children baking and sort a great playlist of music can add cars and wooden/plastic a tsunami of a mess in your something simple like fairy cakes that will get the whole family

Classes forFrom Boys and Baby Girls toaged Ballerina 21/2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances

Classes held in: Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush and South Kensington

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moving. Have a ‘dance off’ with the front cover. Send out some the house or living room, create some masking tape. your kids. roving reporters to write some a second track alongside it and news stories and create some get the toy cars out and race Try Balloon Ping Pong Make a Magazine fun features. The whole family away! or Table Tennis Set up a news desk in the can get involved! Blow up some balloons and use house and decide what the Get Active some table tennis bats or make magazine is going to be about. Set up a Racing Track You could make an indoor your own with some sticks and Think up a great name and get Use masking tape to create a obstacle course or try hula paper plates. Alternatively, if you someone in the “team” to design huge car-racing track around hooping or skipping in the have a table tennis set, drag out living room. To make it more the dining table, set up the net interesting, do some timed and hold a tournament. challenges. You could also Absolutely hours of fun create indoor hopscotch with guaranteed!

Image credit: Perform

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WHERE’S SANTA THIS CHRISTMAS?

24 Nov-24 Dec HAMLEYS Children take special one-on-one meeting with Father GARDENS The gardens of Ashurbanipal’s part in seasonal activities, hear magical Christmas, who gives each child a small gift. HOLIDAY palace were glorious! Help to create a stories of Christmas, write their wishlist and Plus, join in wreath-making and other beautiful garden with colourful plants and spend time with Father Christmas and Christmas workshops. £11 per child, booking WORKSHOPS fragrant blossoms. For under 5s at 10.30am. receive an extra special gift bag to take essential. www.fulhampalace.org 17 Dec LITTLE FEET: CREATE AN 17-21 Dec home. 22 Nov - 24 Dec HYDE PARK'S SANTA EXHIBITION Some special new objects have PAINT POTS FESTIVE FUN www.hamleys.com/explore-whatson- LAND Catch a glimpse of Santa in his arrived, and the museum teddy bears need Arts, crafts, music, games and other london.irs Christmas grotto and enjoy a magical family your help putting them on display. There are seasonal activities at Paint Pots Bayswater, 1-20 Dec SELFRIDGES Breakfast with day out in the new and exclusively designed all sorts of jobs to do, from making the St Stephens Church, St Stephens Crescent, Santa. Be one of Santa's special guests as Santa Land. See your little ones’ faces light posters to cleaning the objects. Come and London, W2 5QT. For 3-6yrs he hosts a decadent festive breakfast for all up as they experience the full festive experi- play, and help the bears make this the best Unaccompanied Sessions: 9.30am-12.30pm, the family. Meet the man himself and receive ence including the brand new 45m long Ice exhibition ever! £40. For 18m-3yrs* Accompanied Sessions: a special personalised gift as you dine on Slide as well as an Ice Trike Trail. 3-4.30pm, £25 (*only available 17 - 20). delicious food and drink. www.selfridges.com www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/ FOUNDLING MUSEUM Led by fully qualified Nursery School and 3-23 Dec FORTNUM AND MASON santa-land WC1N 1AZ Creative Classes teachers. Book online at Storytelling with Father Christmas! Children 22 Nov-5 Jan KEW GARDENS Now in its www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk www.paintpotshouse.com aged 3-11 can sit and listen as Father sixth year, the 2018 winter trail will be bigger 1 Dec RAGS TO RICHES Inspired by the Christmas himself tells a very special festive than ever before, with over a million twinkling symbolism found in the portraits in the 17-19 Dec PERFORM DRAMA story. In the run-up to Christmas, the Man in pea-lights and thousands of laser beams. exhibition Ladies of Quality & Distinction, use WORKSHOP: ARABIAN NIGHTS Your Red will be welcoming boys and girls on his Walk under welcoming arches into a world block-printing techniques to turn recycled child will be off to wind-swept deserts this Nice List into our Fifth Floor Boardroom to festooned with seasonal cheer and wander fabrics into elegant decorative textiles that Christmas holiday with an Arabian adventure hear a yuletide story like no other, before beneath unique tree canopies drenched in could be used to dress an influential woman. set in a land full of colour, magic and mys- handing out festive goodie bags to take Christmas colour. Santa and his elves will be Led by artist Isobel Manning. 11am-4.30pm tery. They will meet the Genie of the Lamp home, and listening to any of your last- in the North Pole village, plus favourite vin- for age 5+ and discover the Cave of Wonders. With minute present requests. www.fortnumand- tage rides, Christmas gifts and traditional 6 Dec BACH TO BABY: CHRISTMAS colourful costumes and original songs, they’ll mason.com/events/christmas-storytelling festive fare. www.kew.org/christmas FAMILY CONCERT An innovative classical star in a fantastic show that will delight family 22 Nov-24 Dec WESTFIELD LONDON 8, 9,15, 16 Dec WWT LONDON babies’ concert created by mum and pianist, and friends. Venues include St Michael's Children can visit Santa’s Snowflake Grotto, WETLANDS CENTRE Children will be Miaomiao Yu, inspired by Handel. Hall, W4 3DY, Kensington URC, W8 6BL and a magical world of snow. Children can create thrilled to hop aboard for a husky sleigh ride 10.30-11.30am. Baden Powell House, SW7 5JS. their own snowflake and explore the various or donkey ride and visit Santa in his magical 16 Dec CHRISTMAS ELF EARS Inspired by www.perform.org.uk activities within the factory. Meet Santa in his grotto. Head over to their northern pine the family concert A Musical Fairy Tale, make icy Snow Chamber, where every child will forest; Father Christmas will be ready to a pair of Christmas elf ears to dance in and receive a gift and have their photo taken with welcome families in his cosy grotto among take home. Suitable for age 5+. him. To leave the North Pole and go back to the trees (tickets to see Santa must be pre- OUTDOOR Free for children and up to two London, experience the infinity room. booked). Plus, the elves are a little behind accompanying adults. www.uk.westfield.com/london/entertain- schedule this year so Father Christmas SKATING RINKS 14 Nov - 13 Jan SOMERSET HOUSE The ment/events/santas-snowflake-grotto needs some extra helpers to make enough IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM 1- 23 Dec DUKE OF YORK SQUARE presents in time for Christmas. Create festive perfect destination for festive gatherings with SE1 6HZ GROTTO Santa’s coming! Take a trip to decorations and small gifts to take home. skating, music and delicious food. The ever- www.iwm.org.uk Chelsea this December and visit Santa in his www.wwt.org.uk/london popular Skate School and Polar Bear Club EXHIBITIONS: cosy abode where he will receive your wish return this season, offering sessions with lists, while his little helpers take photos for National Ice Skating Association instructors HOLOCAUST Film, photographs and a you to keep. Book at: SANTA TO YOUR DOOR for visitors of any experience. large number of rare artefacts document www.dukeofyorksquare.com www.adamantsparties.co.uk www.somersethouse.org.uk the history of the Nazi persecution of the 1-24 Dec ODDS FARM PARK The farm has Arrange a magical visit from Santa 22 Nov-6 Jan HYDE PARK WINTER Jews and other groups before and during been sprinkled with even more Christmas on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or WONDERLAND The largest open air ice rink the Second World War. For ages 14+ in the UK. Skate around the Victorian band- magic and spectacular surprises than ever any other time. He will deliver your A FAMILY IN WARTIME Explores the lives stand under a canopy of lights. of William and Alice Allpress and their ten before! Take your Christmas Spectacular presents and chat to your children Pass through the enchanted forest, to start www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com children and what life in London was like about their favourite things. He may your magical journey to the North Pole. Meet 23 Nov - 6 Jan TOWER OF LONDON Skate during the war. even sing a few festive songs before the Elves and Father Christmas, head into in the shadow of the Tower and the Thames. SECRET WAR The clandestine world of the Elves’ workshop to create your take he says goodbye having nibbled a From £12.50. espionage, covert operations and the www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london home gift and finally step into the toy shop to mince pie, or two. Call the Santa work of Britain’s Special Forces. To 20 Jan NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM choose your Christmas Spectacular present. hotline: 020 8959 1045/ FIRST WORLD WAR Discover the story The Museum’s east lawn will be transformed www.oddsfarm.co.uk/christmas-day-out 07969 121094. Or email: of the war - Over 1,300 objects including once again into a magical setting complete 1, 2, 7 and 9 Dec FULHAM PALACE Knock [email protected] weapons, uniforms, diaries, letters and on the Tudor Great Hall door and listen for with thousands of fairy lights adorning the souvenirs, will be on display as well as a the bell before the whole family enters for a nearby trees, a fairground carousel and café bar where you can relax and enjoy the views recreated trench with periscopes and a above London’s loveliest ice rink. From dug-out, along with a soundscape and £8.80. www.nhm.ac.uk projection will evoke what daily life was 23 Nov - 6 Jan HAMPTON COURT like for the troops. PALACE Skate against a backdrop of one of the greatest palaces on earth! Tickets from 11am-5pm. LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM £12.50, family tickets from £42.00. www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Throughout Nov and Dec FUTURE ENGINEERS GALLERY Families, young MUSEUMS AND people and ‘big kids’ can get hands-on and have fun exploring the fascinating world of GALLERIES transport engineering in the new Future BRITISH MUSEUM Engineers gallery, which opens to the public WC1B 3DG as a permanent display. Test your skills, www.britishmuseum.org solve transport conundrums faced by modern DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety of themes. Free, 11am-4pm, for ages 7+ What’s On listings Meet Father Christmas at (unless stated). ODD’S FARM 6 Dec LITTLE FEET: GLORIOUS continue on page 16

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What’s On

day engineers, and enjoy a series of interactive exhibits.

NATIONAL GALLERY WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm. MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For children aged 2-5. Sundays 10.30-11am and 11.30am–12pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day. 21, 28 Nov, 5 Dec WELCOME WEDNESDAYS Bring paintings to life through interactive music, storytelling, art and messy play activities. For children under age 5. 2, 9, 16 Dec WILD LIFE DRAWING Life drawing with a difference! Meet, sketch and learn about real-life animals. Each week will feature different animals. Live animals will be present at this event and will always be accompanied by their experienced handlers. 11am-1pm. Advanced booking essential, for ages 5+ 12 Dec BABYJAZZ CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Swing and sing your way into Christmas at a tailored jazz workshop.10.30-11.10am for ages 18 months +

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Room on the Broom LIVE at the SW7 5BD LYRIC THEATRE www.nhm.ac.uk Until 6 Jan LIFE IN THE DARK Leave day- light behind and put your senses to the test Create your own modular building by Waugh festive crackers inspired by the Wallace a local Greenwich school, who will present in this illuminating exhibition. Meet the crea- Thistleton Architects and add it to a new city. Collection. Free, drop-in, 11am-1pm, all themed arts, crafts, storytelling and play for tures that thrive at night, in pitch-black caves 28-30 Dec POP-UP PERFORMANCE Free ages. children under five years old. 10am-4pm. and deep in the sea. Enter the worlds of activities and an interactive theatrical dance 1,2 Dec CUTTY SARK CONSTELLATIONS nocturnal animals and discover how they find performance. Sailors have used star-gazing to help with their way around their environment, hunt, 29 Dec FESTIVE FAMILY RAVE Wear your way-finding for thousands of years. Join the mate and evade predators. festive best for a fun family get together with DAYS OUT artist to make an existing constellation or Every weekend INVESTIGATE FOR rave music, crafts and merry-making with design your own. For age 3+ FAMILIES Get a feel for how scientists work award winning Big Fish Little Fish. BRITISH LIBRARY At 11.30am and 2pm. by having a go yourself. Come and explore Booking essential. NW1 2DB 27, 28 Dec STORM SHAKERS Shake up a hundreds of real nature specimens that form FREE ART FUN-BACK-PACKS, ACTIVITY www.bl.uk storm and recreate the sounds of rain and the evidence Museum scientists use in their CART AND ANIMAL BAGS Families can 24-25 Nov TABBY MCTAT A stage adaption the sea with your very own hand-made daily work. Drop-in, 11am-5pm. pick up an activity Back-Pack, get creative at of the Julia Donaldson and Axel Sheffler musical instrument. For age 3+ 8 Dec DAWNOSAURS Early morning fun Drop-in-Design or go on a gallery adventure classic for all the family, from the book by At 11.30am and 2pm. and learning for families with children on the trail. Free, drop-in. Suitable for children aged Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Tabby autistic spectrum. 4 to 11. McTat is a cat with the loudest of meee-ews FULHAM PALACE 1 Dec DINO SNORES CHRISTMAS Activity Cart: Fantastic hands-on art fun for and a best friend with a guitar. Together they SW6 6EA SPECIAL Ever wondered what goes on at children to create collages and pictures to sing their favourite songs delighting the www.fulhampalace.org the Natural History Museum at night? take home. crowds, until one day Fred disappears. every Mon and Tues THE PALACE 7 - 11 years. 7pm till morning, torchlit trails Agent Animal bag: A sensory activity bag 25 Nov FELINE FABLES AND FOLKTALES EXPLORERS A weekly parent/carer and through the museum, live animal shows and that has been developed especially for under Join storyteller Olivia Armstrong to listen, toddler sessions for children aged 2-4. more. For ages 7-11. 5s. Each bag contains an audio map and invent, write and perform stories in this £3 per child, which includes a drink and fabric cubes. healthy snack. VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM playful family workshop. Listen to cat folk- tales from around the world that show the 9 Dec CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME BEAUTY SW7 2RL WALLACE COLLECTION different sides to these most mysterious of AND THE BEAST Banished to the castle by www.vam.ac.uk W1U 3BN creatures - from the heroic and magical, to a wicked enchantress, the Prince is cursed Every Sat POP UP PERFORMANCES www.wallacecollection.org the downright naughty, you will meet them to remain a hideous beast forever. Could Storytelling, interactive plays and dance. 2 Dec THE LITTLE DRAW Free drop-in all! Free, drop in, age 5-11. Belle be the one to break the spell on the For all ages at 11am, 1 and 3pm. Free, drop drawing workshop for all ages and abilities. Beast? 11am and 1pm. in. In Dec, pop-up performance will be cele- Come and meet the Little Draw artist and CUTTY SARK 9 Dec CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT brating a Victorian Christmas. rediscover the Wallace Collection through SE10 9NF An evening of Christmas celebration in the Every Sun DROP-IN DESIGN Pick up a drawing, observation and plenty of creative www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark atmospheric Victorian Chapel. Carols design challenge, hunt for ideas in the experimentation. Suitable for all the family, Every weekend: CUTTY SARK followed by light seasonal refreshments in galleries, then create your own. 10.30am- 1.30pm - 4.30pm. CHARACTERS Come aboard to hear Cutty front of the fire in the Tudor Great Hall. 5pm, for age 5+ In Dec, celebrate the 8 Dec FREE FILM SCREENING: Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by 6.30pm-8pm. festive season and design your own sensory SCROOGE Believed by many to be the best characters from the ship’s past. Suitable for Christmas tree decoration inspired by screen version of the much loved yuletide ages 3+ HAMPTON COURT PALACE architecture. tale by Dickens, with the ever-versatile Every Weds TODDLER TIME Bring your KT8 9AU 5-7, 12-14, 19-21 Dec FESTIVE PLAY Alastair Sim impeccable as the miser who little sailors along for songs, stories and www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace SESSION FOR UNDER FIVES: Take part in comes to see the error of his ways through playtime on board. 10-11.30am for ages 4 2 Dec STORYTIME SUNDAY Enjoy a well- a multi-sensory play session especially for the promptings of the spirits of Christmas and under. known story in the comfort of the palace and the under 5s and their families, inspired by Past, Present and Future. 2pm. 21 Nov TODDLER TAKE OVER DAY The join in with themed toys. Aimed at under 7s. The 12 Days of Christmas. 15 Dec GET CRACKING Get ready for annual celebration of children's creativity in 11.30am, 1 and 2.30pm. 28-30 Dec THE IMAGINATION STATION Christmas and Hanukkah by making some museums, designed and led by children from 7 - 9 Dec HAMPTON COURT PALACE

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FESTIVE FAYRE The palace’s historic court- 24 Nov-13 Jan LAY THE TABLE HUNT CAMBRIDGE THEATRE popular score. Clara and her enchanted yards are set to be filled with over 50 stalls Explore the gardens to help the butler find Nutcracker doll discover a magical world, WC2H 9HU featuring mince pies, mulled wine and a host his missing tableware in the festive family where she battles with the Mouse King and www.matildathemusical.com of treats guaranteed to set mouths watering. trail. While laying the table in the Eating meets a handsome stranger. As the air Booking until Feb 2019 MATILDA THE 17-23 Dec COURTYARD CAROL SINGING Room James Allen, the Butler, has grows colder, Clara and her valiant MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare Get Christmas off to a traditional start by discovered he is missing items from all his Nutcracker take a hot air balloon ride across Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s singing carols through some of the palace dinner sets! After William Deighton, the Head London to the glistening Land of Snow where magical story about a girl with extraordinary courtyards. Gardener found a silver spoon in a flower her adventure really begins. A treat for all the powers. bed, the Butler suspects the Menagerie boy family. KENSINGTON PALACE has taken them and hidden them around the EVENTIM APOLLO W8 4PX garden. Can you help Mr Allen by finding all LYRIC HAMMERSMITH W6 9QH www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace the items before Mrs Child notices that they W6 0QL www.eventimapollo.com 12-22 Dec LUNA WINTER CINEMA are missing? £1 per trail, from the Garden www.lyric.co.uk 19-31 Dec NATIVITY! The Musical. Experience iconic films from It's A Wonderful Kiosk. 17 Nov-6 Jan DICK WHITTINGTON The A feel-good, funny and full of festive joy, this Life and Elf to Home Alone and Love Actually 29 Dec TEALIGHT HOLDER PAINTING usual mix of live music, crazy characters, smash-hit musical was adapted for the stage on the big screen at the Pavilion on the Use your artistic skills to decorate a tealight awesome adventure, singing, dancing, by Debbie Isitt, the creator of the much-loved Orangery Lawn, with mulled wine, mince pies holder for your table at home. Light is a key villainous baddies and heroic goodies with films. Every child in every school has one and hot chocolate. part of the dining experience, with beautiful a little bit of feline flavour chucked in for Christmas wish, to star in a Nativity, and at candelabrum used all throughout history to good measure. For age 6+ St Bernadette’s School they’re attempting to KEW GARDENS light the dining tables and show off the 21 Nov - 30 Dec RAYMOND BRIGGS’ mount a musical version. The only trouble is TW9 3AB wealth of the householder. You can see FATHER CHRISTMAS A charming show is teacher Mr Maddens has promised that a www.kew.org examples of this in the Made for the Table back to delight children under 6 and their Hollywood producer is coming to see the 22 Nov-5 Jan CHRISTMAS Exhibition. Adults and children can join in in families. Follow Santa as he awakes from a show… ILLUMINATIONS TRAIL Kew Gardens will this family workshop. dream of sun, sea and sand only to find it is once again transform into a magical after GREENFORD HALL the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve. dark explosion of festive colour, as visitors This timeless festive story bursts into life with UB6 9QN embark on an illuminated trail inspired by the live music, playful puppets and a magical www.heos.org.uk Gardens themselves. Now a firm favourite in THEATRE AND set. 29, 30 Dec CINDERELLA the London festive calendar, this year’s trail 5 Jan THE SNOW BABY Doris and her Bear A traditional family-friendly pantomime. will offer an utterly new experience of art, CONCERTS Man live on the hill, alone but happy. light and sound from a roster of incredible ARTS THEATRE LEICESTER SQUARE THEATRE Wrapped up in a snowy smother, they are in international artists. love. But when the snowstorm comes, Doris’ Great Newport Street WC2 WC2H 7BX Bear Man disappears! How will Doris survive www.artstheatrewestend.co.uk www.leicestersquaretheatre.com LONDON ZOO by herself in a forest plagued with nothing 8 Dec - 12 Jan A CHRISTMAS CAROL To 6 Jan STICK MAN What starts off as a NW1 4RY but bad weather and a cloud of hungry Based on the performances of A Christmas morning jog becomes quite the misadventure www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo crows? Carol that Charles Dickens himself gave for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with 22 Nov-1 Jan THE MAGICAL, A magical children’s theatre show exploring throughout the UK and America, Simon him, a swan builds a nest with him, and he FANTASTICAL, AFTER-DARK themes of family, love and loss with beautiful Callow’s one-man show embodies the very even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ILLUMINATED TRAIL! There's something puppetry, imaginative storytelling and music heart of this beloved holiday classic. ever get back to the family tree? for everyone as the one mile illuminated path that will give you goosebumps. For ages 3-8. winds its way through ZSL London Zoo in a BARBICAN THEATRE THE LILIAN BAYLISS STUDIO magical after dark experience. Greeted by LYRIC THEATRE EC2Y 8DS EC1R 4TN festive sights and sounds, wander amongst W1D 7ES www.barbican.org.uk/theatre www.sadlerswells.com seasonal colour and through twinkling tun- www.tallstories.org.uk/room-on-the-broom 12-22 Dec WOLFGANG'S MAGICAL 2-6 Jan SLEEPING BEAUTY: LET'S ALL nels of light. With the animals safely tucked 23 Nov-13 Jan ROOM ON THE BROOM MUSICAL CIRCUS Straight from the score DANCE Dazzling dancers, Tchaikovsky's up in bed, explore the trail where fairy-tale LIVE Join the witch and her cat on their and onto the stage, the man known as sumptuous score and gorgeous costumes meets fantasy and larger-than-life pea-lit wild mission to defeat the dragon in Tall Stories’ Mozart appears amid a storm of powder, bring this glittering classical ballet to life, animal sculptures rise high into the night sky. magical, musical adaptation of the classic tumbling and twirling, as musical mayhem suitable for all the family. Surround yourself in sparkle as the path picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel and movement fuse in this family show with draws you through the Light Vortex and into LONDON COLISEUM Scheffler. The witch and her cat are flying contrasting tunnels, some delicate and some a circus twist. For age 3+ WC2N 4ES happily on their broomstick when they pick spectacular, festooned by a canopy of over BECK THEATRE www.ballet.org.uk up a helpful dog, bird and frog for a ride. 100,000 glistening pea-lights. UB3 2UE 13-30 Dec ENGLISH NATIONAL BALLET: WHAT’S ON LISTINGS ODDS FARM PARK www.becktheatre.org.uk THE NUTCRACKER Over 100 dancers and musicians, beautiful sets and Tchaikovsky’s CONTINUE ON PAGE 18 HP10 0LX 21 Nov BRING YOUR OWN BABY: www.oddsfarm.co.uk COMEDY A funny, friendly afternoon of top A FABULOUS DAY OUT AT THE FARM! comedy, and… you can bring your own baby! Meet the farmers and get close to the Soft flooring, toys, buggy parking and baby animals in the hands-on area and in the changing available. large undercover animal barns. There is a 22 Nov THE NUTCRACKER An ideal massive adventure play area with a four lane introduction to audiences of any age to the astra slide, two drop slides, a netted area magic that is classical ballet. A wonderful with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, swinging treat full of glitter for the whole family. ropes and much more. Also, a special 7-30 Dec PETER PAN Swapping the Toddler and Under 5’s areas. cobbles of Coronation Street for Captain 1-24 Dec CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Hook, Ryan Thomas stars in this year's high- Take your Christmas Spectacular Pass flying pantomime adventure, featuring mag- through the Enchanted Forest, to start your nificent scenery, beautiful costumes, an magical journey to the North Pole. Meet the abundance of comedy and stunning flying elves and Father Christmas, head into the sequences. elves’ workshop to create your take home gift BLOOMSBURY THEATRE and finally step into the toy shop to choose your Christmas Spectacular present! WC1H 0AH www.thebloomsbury.com OSTERLEY PARK AND GARDENS 12 Dec - 6 Jan AWFUL AUNTIE From TW7 4RB the award-winning West End producers of www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park- Gangsta Granny comes the world premiere and-house/whats-on of David Walliams’ amazing tale of frights, 17 Nov FAMILY CRAFT WORKSHOP: fights and friendship, featuring a very large MUG PAINTING Decorate a mug for your owl, a very small ghost and a very awful table at home with this family craft workshop. Auntie! Booking essential.

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What’s On

But this broomsticks not meant for five and Aurora is born to King Norbert and Queen ‘CRACK’ it snaps in two! Dotti, in the kingdom of Woollycombe, the Enjoy songs, laughs and scary fun for land of sheep and spinning wheels. As the children aged 3+ princess’s fairy godmothers bless her, the wicked Carabosse suddenly appears and MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN casts an evil spell on the little princess - on W12 7LJ her 18th birthday she will prick her finger on www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk a spinning wheel and drop-down dead! No 19 Dec INTERACTIVE MUSICAL one can stop the spell, but Fairy Peaceful, STORYTALE: FLY PENGUIN FLY Brrrrrr, one of the fairy godmothers, has yet to cast brrrrrr, brrrrrr. Cold, cold, cold. Join Penguin her spell. So, will she manage to change in the land of icebergs, snow and very cold Carabosse’s evil spell? Or will Carabosse water, brrrrrr. Who will he meet? What will he win the day… A fun, laugh-out-loud family discover? Expect live instruments and lots of panto. Sing along and shout at the wicked colourful resources. For ages 1-4. fairy Carabosse - if you dare!!!

THE OLD VIC RICHMOND THEATRE SE1 8NB TW9 1QJ www.oldvictheatre.com www.atgtickets.com/Richmond 27 Nov - 19 Jan A CHRISTMAS CAROL 8 Dec-6 Jan PETER PAN Join the high- Follow the adventures of the wicked flying hero, Peter Pan, as he transports the Ebenezer Scrooge as four ghosts transport Darlings on an adventure they will never for- him to the past, present and future during a get, filled with evil pirates, a very hungry The English National Ballet at life-changing night-time visit. Will the 4 crocodile and the meanest man in THE LONDON COLISEUM ghosts manage to make him change his Neverland. ways? Don’t miss this immersive production and get in the Christmas spirit with this SHAW THEATRE books. Free but booking essential. classic seasonal tale. NW1 2AJ 19 Nov, 3, 10 Dec DRAGON BABIES Bring CONCERTS www.shaw-theatre.com your little ones to shake, rattle and gong. PEACOCK THEATRE 8-30 Dec BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Gamelan for ages 3-5. BACH TO BABY www.bachtobaby.com/londonnorth WC2A 2HT A show with a star cast, impressive music, 13 Dec-6 Jan RUMPELSTILTSKIN All concerts at 10.30am. www.sadlerswells.com energetic dance routines as well as plenty of A retelling of a beloved family fairy tale, 19 Nov, 3 Dec in Notting Hill 22 Nov-6 Jan THE SNOWMAN Based on jokes, slapstick and heaps of audience reimagined with lashings of magical (St. John's Church, Lansdowne Crescent, the book by Raymond Briggs. step into the participation for all the family. mayhem, rocking music and supreme W11) wonderful wintery world of a boy and his silliness. In this groundbreaking theatrical 23 Nov, 7 and 21 Dec in Chiswick magical snowman. As a unique friendship is SADLER’S WELLS spectacle that is anything but traditional, (St. Michael and All Angels, Bath Road, W4) kindled, the two embark on a starry-skied SE1 8PX wonder at the visually stunning costumes, 1 Dec in Bayswater adventure to the North Pole, where they www.sadlerswells.com hyper-modern set and larger-than-life (St. Matthew's Bayswater, meet Father Christmas and narrowly escape 4 Dec-27 Jan SWAN LAKE Retaining the characters and delve into a fantastical world, 29 St Petersburgh Place, W2) iconic elements of the original, Matthew fizzing with fun and laughs for all the family. 19 Dec in Kensington PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Bourne will create an exciting re-imagining of 15 Dec CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS (Saint Stephen's Church, Gloucester Road W9 2PF the classic production. Thrilling, audacious Traditional music, stories and performances SW7) www.puppetbarge.com and emotive, this Swan Lake is perhaps best from the Caribbean that are typical during 24 Nov, 15 Dec in Ealing 1-31 Dec MR RABBIT MEETS BRER known for replacing the female corps-de- the festive season. Haven Green Baptist Church, SANTA Brer Rabbit is back to his ballet with a menacing male ensemble, 19 Dec-5 Jan CIRCUS 1903 Experience the 2 Castlebar Road, W5) mischievous ways in this Christmas adven- shattering convention and taking the dance thrills and daredevil entertainment of a turn- ture full of fun and surprises. Will Mr. Fox world by storm. of-the-century circus. The show includes MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN outsmart him this time? Staged with beautiful sensational life-sized elephants stunningly W12 7LJ lighting, unique hand-carved marionettes, SOUTHBANK CENTRE created by puppeteers from War Horse, www.musichouseforchildren.com and suitable for age 3+ EC1R putting elephants back in the ring as never 2 Dec CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Under www.southbankcentre.co.uk before as well as a huge cast of jaw- the sparkling chandeliers QUESTORS THEATRE 16, 23, 30 Nov, 7, 14 Dec RUG RHYMES dropping and dangerous acts from all of Bush Hall, families, friends and children W5 5BQ FOR THE UNDER-FIVES A short session of corners of the globe, featuring acrobats, will enjoy Christmas carols, performances www.questors.org.uk nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories, contortionists, jugglers, trapeze and high-wire and readings by children and artists. Expect 14-31 Dec SLEEPING BEAUTY and the opportunity to look at and borrow performers. an appearance from You Know Who…! CHRISTMAS PANTO The beautiful Princess 23 Dec WINTER KNEES UP An inclusive day of music, storytelling and performances CADOGAN HALL for all the family. SW1X 9DQ UNICORN THEATRE www.cadoganhall.com 1 Dec WEST END DOES: CHRISTMAS SE1 2HZ Stars of West End and Broadway perform www.unicorntheatre.com songs and carols alongside the fabulous 13 Nov - 6 Jan HUDDLE During the long, orchestra and gospel choir, Sing Gospel. cold winter, Mr Penguin carefully guards his 12 Dec CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT egg. Now this new dad needs to look after A sublime concert of carols and seasonal his newly born chick on his own and he’s not classics, staged in full 18th-century costume feeling confident. How will father and baby in an evocative candle-lit style setting. work it out together? For ages 2-5. This is a 16 Dec ROYAL PHILHARMONIC heart-warming tale about a child and parent ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS CRACKER learning how to thrive in spite of the odds. Glittering Christmas songs, seasonal music This is a deaf-friendly and autism-friendly and sing-along carols, featuring West End show. stars. 13 Nov - 6 Jan PULLMAN’S GRIMM TALES 21 Dec PADDINGTON BEAR’S FIRST A delicious selection of Philip Pullman’s CONCERT & FATHER CHRISTMAS favourite fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm, SCREENING The wonderful animation re-told and re-worked for this Christmas. Father Christmas with the soundtrack Enter a world of powerful witches, enchanted The Christmas Illuminations Trail at performed live, and the charming score of forest creatures, careless parents and fear- Paddington Bear’s First Concert for KEW GARDENS less children as they embark on adventures symphony orchestra and narrator. full of magic, gore, friendship, and bravery.

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What type of activity is most beneficial for my child?

Parents are faced with a daunting array of extra-curricular activities from which to choose appropriate classes for their children and the choices just keep getting wider! The vast majority of these activities offer many skills and benefits, as well as being enjoyable and fun. To help guide you in your decision making, Families takes a look at the benefits of some of the available options. CLASSIFIED ADS - PARTIES DANCE exciting new dimension to childhood. problem solving, self-discipline, If your child is always practising their With horse riding comes: leadership and working with others moves and can’t help getting up and Responsibility: learning to look after towards a common goal. moving as soon as there’s music in and ride a pony instils a sense of Confidence: coaches are trained to the air, signing up for dance classes responsibility and accountability for help children take small steps to is a great way to tap into their another animal that will be valuable learn the basic skills required and to enthusiasm. Dance classes improve: as your child grows up. improve their confidence. Physical health: flexibility, Stress relief: being outdoors can They don’t have to be naturals! co-ordination, balance, range of enhance your child's sense of motion, stamina, muscle tone, happiness and well-being. LANGUAGES strength and posture. Experienced riders talk about Learning another language can be Spatial and Self Awareness: feeling the freedom and exhilaration of exciting and empowering for more at home in their own skin, riding a horse in the great outdoors. children, whether to communicate becoming more agile and paying Empathy: dealing with animals helps with friends or family or to under- more attention to others sharing children understand that someone stand more when abroad. While their space. else’s needs have to be considered English is an important language, Self-expression: expression of their alongside, and sometimes before, it’s still the case that only 6% of the feelings with immediacy through their own. worlds’ population speak it as a first dance and movement. This can help Confidence: learning to ride and language - 75% don’t speak any children who struggle to express care for an animal that’s twice their English at all! Some benefits are: their feelings verbally. size can be really empowering for Growing kids’ brains: people who Socialisation: working as part of a children. are bilingual are better at tasks that PARTY PLUS Learning life-lessons: great for require multi-tasking and focussed For all your party needs, Balloons team, developing a greater sense of Partyware · Banners · Decorations trust and co-operation, and making instilling an attitude in children that attention. Brain scans show they and much more. new friends. success and rewards come from have more grey matter in the 9:30am - 5pm Monday - Saturday. Dance is a highly social activity. hard work. regions of the brain involved in 020 8987 8404 4 Acton Lane Cognitive development: improving Many riding schools will take executive function. Chiswick Park W4 5NB memory skills through learning children as young as age 3 but Boosting results in core subjects: www.partyplus.co.uk www.partiesbypost.co.uk choreography. some stipulate a minimum age of 5 children who have studied foreign Self-confidence: which comes with or 6 years. Horse riding is usually languages perform better in English each new routine they practice and taught in small groups (one to one is and mathematics and SAT-verbal master. also available) to ensure each pupil scores improve with the length of CLASSIFIED There is a wide range of dance receives a good level of attention. time students have studied a foreign ADS - TUITION classes available - for both boys and language. girls - from pre-ballet classes and BALL SPORTS Improving learning skills: develops tap, street dance, contemporary, As children grow, learning how to the skills of memory, attention to “HOME TUITION” creative movement to music and play a variety of ball games is a detail, noticing, pattern-finding, FULLY QUALIFIED TUITION more. great way of keeping fit. The creative thinking and reasoning. IN ART, CRAFTS AND DESIGN remarkable thing about playing with Ease of learning: post-puberty our Help with exams for school, HORSE RIDING a ball is that your child can run for aptitude for second portfolio’s for college, Childhood is full of stories, songs miles without noticing, because their language acquisition is reduced. or, just for fun!! ALL AGES WELCOME and role-play games about horses mind is focussed on the action and Up until ages 7 or 8, children can so learning to ride can add an not the physical exertion. learn to speak a second language Contact: Vivien Bornemann Some benefits are: with fluent grammar and without an 020 8932 1010 Physical health: maintaining a accent. After this critical period the healthy weight, good level of ability to master a foreign language fitness and strengthening of bones gradually declines. and muscles. Setting them up for adult life: Co-ordination, timing and attention: learning a foreign language as a improving all of these! child means they have a lifetime to Sociability: making friends, gaining benefit from cross-cultural friend- confidence and improving self- ships, broad career esteem. opportunities, exciting travel adven- Life skills: learning to handle tures and deeper insights into how victories and defeats, persistence, others see the world.

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PERFORM JUMP LDN Activities, Clubs & Classes Weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4- Empowers people through Double Dutch 12s. Perform is a unique children’s drama school Skipping! Double Dutch is a socially fun sport that has a special emphasis on child develop- and street game which promotes teamwork, environment. Students aged 4 to 18 years are ment. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and communication and unity. MUSIC AND MOVEMENT taught by a professional and experienced team singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Harrow Club, 187 Freston Rd, London W10 6TH HARTBEEPS of teachers. They offer two-week trials for all Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, JUMP YOUTH: 6pm-7pm (16yrs and under) Award-winning, original, multi-sensory musical new students so that your child can try the in small groups, Perform classes focus on JUMP FITNESS: 7pm-8pm (16yrs and over) baby and toddler classes with original music, class out. developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, e: [email protected] bubbles, costumes, twinkles, sparkly parachutes, To enrol go to: www.stagecoach.co.uk Communication, Coordination, and www.facebook.com/jumpldn1 www.jumpldn.com puppets and more. Classes in West Kensington, [email protected] Concentration. The perform curriculum ensures North Kensington, Notting Hill, Shepherds Bush Chiswick - 020 8398 4709 plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, TUITION SUPPORT and Maida Vale. Hammersmith & Kensington: 020 8398 8106 catchy songs and funky dances. All class t: 07738 522856 Ealing: 01494 260249 materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs EXPLORE LEARNING Classes in Ealing, Fulham, Putney, Kew, Chiswick, and videos that the children can play at home to Maths & English Tuition Centres. 5 -14 years. Hammersmith, Wandsworth, Barnes and Acton. WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY keep the magic alive. Perform offer no-obligation Free Trial session. Ballet classes in Chiswick & Ealing. FREE trial sessions. Visit: www.perform.org.uk/try Ealing 020 8090 8710 DANCE Free Trial Lesson. to book a FREE class today. Hayes 020 8561 8530 e: [email protected] t: 07795 578781 Westfield London 020 809 01216 BALLET4LIFE Venues: Acton, Brook Green, Chiswick, Ealing, www.westlondondanceacademy.com www.explorelearning.co.uk Since 2004. Ballet4life offers top quality. Earls Court, ,Hammersmith, Ickenham, Welcoming daily ballet, dance and fitness classes WEST LONDON SCHOOL OF DANCE Kensington, Maida Vale, Notting Hill, VICTORIA PAGE 1 taught by professionals. All classes are held in 2 /2 - 16 years. Shepherds Bush, Turnham Green. Private tuition 21/2 - 11 years. large dance studios and our programme includes t: 020 8743 3856 e: [email protected] t: 07050 246 810 creative dance classes for kids, beginner [email protected] t: 020 7255 9120 www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk www.perform.org.uk/try VIVIEN BORNEMANN ballet and barre courses, and dance fitness. Home tuition. Art, Craft and design. All ages. Mums and babies welcome. STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS t: 020 8932 1010. www.ballet4life.com DRAMA Provide fun and engaging weekly classes in Follow us: @ballet4lifeuk ARTSED EXTRA dance, drama and singing in a safe and happy Like us: www.facebook.com/ballet4life.uk/ Fun and engaging weekly Musical Theatre, environment. Students aged 4 to 18 years are BABY YOGA & MASSAGE Drama and Dance classes in Chiswick. taught by a professional and experienced team WEST LONDON BABIES DANCE GALLERY Develop skills and grow in confidence! of teachers. They offer two-week trials for all Chiswick Sling Library, Family First Aid session, Dance Gallery is Ealing’s leading dance school Available to children 4-16yrs of all abilities. new students so that your child can try the class Breastfeeding Buddy sessions and Pregnant and specialises in modern, jazz, tap and musical e: [email protected] · t: 020 8987 6692 out. To enrol go to: www.stagecoach.co.uk Parents Social Club. Also The Bub Hub which theatre productions for children aged 4-18 years. www.artsed.co.uk e: [email protected] runs every fortnight and is a collective of t: 0208 566 9672 www.dancegallery.co.uk Chiswick: 020 8398 4709 professionals working together to support HUZZAH parents during the first year of their baby's life. KENSINGTON BALLET Hammersmith & Kensington: 020 8398 8106 Performing Arts & Mindfulness Mums of More than One, 6-12 month old focus 18 months - 2 years. Ealing: 01494 260249 Build confidence from the inside out with a and lots more. Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Huzzah weekly class. Drama, dance, singing t: 020 8090 8710 Notting Hill and Fulham. and a touch of mindfulness. Ages 4 - 7. FOOTBALL/SPORTS t: 07957 650 042 www.kensingtonballet.com KIDDIKICKS Saturday 1 - 2.20pm in Queen's Park. LANGUAGES STAGECOACH PERFROMING ARTS Sunday’s 10 - 11.30am in West Hampstead. Football (W2,W4,W8,W10,W11,TW8). Creative, calm, confident kids. For boys and girls from 18 months to age 7. ARABIC Provide fun and engaging weekly classes in For Women and Children. Female teacher. dance, drama and singing in a safe and happy Sign up for a FREE TRAIL at: e: [email protected] · t: 020 7937 7965 www.huzzahperformingarts.com www.kiddikicks.co.uk t: 07956 845 053

Silly Millie the Clown PARTY SUPPLIERS Families West London is part of Party Listings Parties for 3 - 9 year olds. Funny Party Plus Families Print Ltd, a franchise magic show, puppet’s, party games, They have a wide range of themed company. All franchised magazines in DRAMA silly songs and balloon animals. party ware available from stock. the group are independently owned Perform Parties Impossible = I am Possible For mail order and more visit: and operated under licence. Families Based around a colourful theme, t: 020 7823 8329 or 07939 239 397 www.partyplus.co.uk is a registered trademark of LCMB Performs energetic party leaders use www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta a magical mix of songs, games and Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, VENUES Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of laughter to create fun-filled, action- FUN ON A FARM! Families West London are fully pro- packed parties. Birthday Parties at tected by copyright and none of the Odds Farm Park t: 0207 255 9120 editoria or photographic matter may www.performparties.co.uk For more information including full be reproduced in any form without party terms and conditions and to Stagecoach prior consent of Families West book visit: www.oddsfarm.co.uk London. Every care is taken in the Their themed parties for 4-10 year olds preparation of this magazine, but the combine drama, dance and singing MUSIC & MOVEMENT franchise company, Families Print Ltd with a wide range of party games and and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be storytelling all based around your Betty Blythe held responsible for the claims of chosen theme. You choose the date Specialises in bringing the Tea advertisers nor for the accuracy of the and the time and they can come to contents, or any consequence Service party to your own home the venue of your choice. thereof. or venue of your choice. Stagecoach Kensington: Design by Martin Driscoll. They can also host up to 10 t: 020 8398 8106 Email: [email protected] in their Vintage Tea room. Stagecoach Chiswick: Printed by The MANSON Group Ltd, e: [email protected] t: 020 020 8398 4709 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road www.bettyblythe.co.uk Industrial Estate, St Albans AL3 6PZ. ENTERTAINERS Blueberry Playsongs www.mansongroup.co.uk Adam Ants Parties Fun, inter-active, musical parties t: 020 8959 1045 or 07969 121094 for the under 5’s since 1991! e: [email protected] Guitar-accompanied songs with Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter www.adamantsparties.co.uk actions, joining in, instruments, Families West Magazine @FamiliesWest games and dancing. Boo Boo The Children’s Entertainer t: 020 8677 6871 t: 07961 355269 www.mr-booboo.co.uk e: [email protected] www.famililiesonline.co.uk