North London

IN THIS ISSUE

Where’s Santa

Seasonal Celebrations

WIN! Family tickets to Tower of London Ice Skating Rink See Page 4 for details

Plus What’s On, Children’s Theatre and much more inside!

Issue 127 November/December 2017 familiesonline.co.uk DISCOVER THE STORIES THAT NEVER GOT OUT

Over the drawbridge and behind the castle walls Book lie unexpected tales of online today lost princes, WW I spies to save

2 Families North London and daring escapes. familiesonline.co.uk Welcome to the November / December issue!

UPCOMING CONTACT US: ISSUES IN THIS ISSUE: North London 3 Local News Jan/Feb 2018: IN THIS ISSUE 5 Education Families Nurseries and Where’s Santa Seasonal 7 Parenting Childcare Celebrations

WIN! Family tickets to Tower of London 8 Clubs and Classes North London Deadline : Ice Skating Rink See Page 4 for details 12 Getting Ready for the 8 December Plus What’s On, Children’s Theatre and much more Holiday Season Magazine 2017 inside! 13 Gift Guide Publisher: Heather Waddington Send in your Issue 127 November/December 2017 familiesonline.co.uk 14 Pantos & Seasonal Shows Managing Editor: Lisa Ralph news, stories and advertising 18 Where’s Santa? PO Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF Front cover image credit bookings to the www.depositphotos.com 19 Ice Rinks T: 01923 237 004 details left. 20 What’s On M: 07402 613 042 Circulation 28,000+ copies every E: [email protected] issue. Published 6 times a year. www.facebook.com/FamiliesNorth www.FamiliesNorthLondon.co.uk For families from birth to twelve. @FamiliesNthLon

Local News

Primary school pupils take the reins at The Mall Wood Green Pupils aged 10-11 from Lordship Lane Primary School took over the reins for a day at The Mall Wood Green as part of an initiative to give children an insight into the business world. The ‘Takeover Day’, on Thu 5 Oct, invited the pupils to shadow professionals from The Mall Wood Green to see what is involved in the day to day running of a shopping centre. The children were given the opportunity to work alongside members of the management, marketing operations and security teams. Youngsters were set a genuine marketing challenge, which saw them bring out their creativity by designing snowflakes, all of which will be converted and produced as vinyls that will be on display in the centre during this year’s Christmas shopping season. Isaiah Fapuro, Marketing Manager at The Mall Wood Green, commented: “Here at The Mall we pride ourselves on being part of the Haringey neighbourhood. Our Takeover Day with Lordship Lane Primary School was a fantastic way to listen to children’s ideas and give them just a small insight as to just what it takes to run a shopping centre.” Schools looking to participate in The Mall Wood Green’s 2018 Takeover Day should register their interest with Isaiah Fapuro by emailing [email protected].

Enfield’s First 4Dx Cinema Screen Eat and be Charitable North London’s first ever 4DX Charitable BOOKINGS is the revolutionary auditorium had opened at restaurant booking app that gives back to Cineworld Enfield. The cinema charity at absolutely no cost to individuals. already features 15 state-of-the- When making a booking, £1 for EVERY art screens, including an IMAX diner in the party will be donated by the screen as well as a Starbucks on restaurant to a charity of the booker’s the first floor. Featuring pioneering cinematic technology, 4DX choice. boasts high-tech motion seats and special effects such as wind, fog, lightning, bubbles, water, and scents to stimulate all five Customers can choose from a list of over senses. The 4DX auditorium will house 156 specially designed 7,500 UK registered charities, from local projects to global seats, plus a curved screen bigger than a double decker bus. endeavours, supporting a wide range of causes. Cinema fans can take advantage of a range of offers including A feature that makes Charitable BOOKINGS stand out as a weekly discounted ‘Movies for Juniors’ screenings are also a booking platform is that, it allows customers to call the available for just £2 on selected weekend mornings and school restaurant directly when making reservations. With the ability holidays, as well as Student NUS discount. to see the restaurant’s sustainability credentials, guide price, type of cuisine, address with map, ratings, photographs, awards For more information on Cineworld Cinemas, please visit and a description of the restaurant, this is an essential guide to www.cineworld.com dining out.

Families North London Ltd is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families North London Ltd are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families North London Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families North London Ltd; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 3 Local News

“Speak Like A Native” launches in prestigious London schools The Autumn term was the launch of Speak Like A Native clubs, a new way of learning languages at some of London’s top prep and primary schools. Following a successful trial, the scheme is now branching out into other schools across London including University College School Pre-prep, St Anthony’s School, and Gospel Oak Primary. The best way to get children excited and confident about speaking a different language is to teach them in an environment where it doesn’t feel like a lesson. That’s what Speak Like A Native aims to do. Its extra-curricular sessions take place in informal environments, with no testing, learning, homework or grammar. Pupils pick up the language being taught through playing games, completing tasks and working with guides, who facilitate activities and only speak in the language being taught. The children pick up words and phrases as a way of decoding what the guides are saying. It is rewarding, fun, and helps build confidence. Derick Deysel who has two daughters in Speak Like A Native Spanish Club says: “Our daughters have enjoyed their first term with Speak Like A Native. The sessions are really good fun and interactive, so it doesn’t feel like learning to them. We are impressed with how much Spanish they have learned, and they are very excited about returning.” For further information, interviews and jpgs please contact [email protected] 020 8209 0120

Baby to Toddler Returns to London! Baby to Toddler, the shopping event for modern parents of children aged 0 to 4 is returning for a second year! Coming to the London ExCeL from 18th to 19th November, the two day shopping event will partner with Peppermint where visitors will have access to exclusive offers and deals from some of the biggest brands and names you know and trust. Guests will also receive a free book worth up to £4.99 by Campbell Books upon arriving, whilst stocks last. The Kids Zone will make a return, to keep the kids entertained and the MAM Feeding Area will have everything needed to feed the attending tots, including bottle warmers, microwaves, bibs and more! Tickets are on sale now via http://bit.ly/BookBabyToToddler. Early bird ticket is £6 until 1st October. Standard advance is £8 and on the door is £12. For more information on visiting Baby to Toddler please visit www.babytotoddlerevents.co.uk.

COMPETITION

Win Family session on Tower of London Ice Rink with Arena Ice

We have 5 family tickets to give away for London’s most iconic skate rink. Five lucky families will take on a fun filled 45 mins gliding on the newly extended ice rink in the famous moat, while taking in spectacular views of the fortress walls overlooking the River Thames. There’s a café and bar on site too, and a programme of events so visitors can book a session then spend the rest of the day or evening in one of London’s most impressive historic locations. Tower of London Ice Rink, 17 Nov 2017 - 2 Jan 2018 How to enter: To enter the competition via http://bit.ly/FamiliesTofLSkate and answer this question. Closing date is 1 Dec. Q: Which river is overlooked by the Tower of London? 1. The River Trent 2. The River Thames 3. The River Wye www.toweroflondonicerink.co.uk

Terms & Conditions: Prize is for one family ticket (admits 4, 1 adult / 3 children or 2 adults / 2 children). All tickets need to be booked online with their promo code. Sessions start at every hour on the hour and last 45 minutes from the time on your ticket. You’ll need to arrive 30 minutes before your skate session. You have to be at least 3 years old. Skaters aged 3–10 must be accompanied by an adult (18+). Children aged 11-12 must be accompanied by adults at all times. A ratio of 1 adult to 5 children will be accepted. You are responsible for skating safely. Not recommended for anyone with serious illness, heart conditions or pregnant mothers to be. Skate hire is included in your ticket price, but feel free to bring your own. Spectators can watch for FREE! For further information, please go to our FAQ page http://www.toweroflondonicerink.co.uk/faqs/

4 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Education

Making the most of Parent’s Evening Explore Learning offers some helpful tips. So you’ve been to a meeting with your child’s teacher and you’ve got an overview of how your child is progressing. But what do you do next to help? • Discuss with your child the feedback from their teacher, they may already be aware of what they need to work on but if they don’t, talk about it. Set a goal together of something they would like to achieve based on their feedback and aim to complete this by the end of next term. Make a plan together about how they are going to get there. • For example: You’re told they give up every time they have to learn something new, especially times tables. The goal you come up with together is to have a can- do attitude. Steps to getting there could be taking a new set of tables and learning them in small batches. Praise them for the ones they have got right alongside highlighting when they are being positive towards their learning so they know what kind of attitude is expected. • If you’ve set any goals with the teacher, then plan a time to review these. Depending on how the teacher likes to work this could be an email, call or face to face catch up 6-8 weeks after the initial meeting. Review how things are going and make changes if needed. • You may come away from a meeting and realise you’ve forgotten something or you don’t understand how the school is reporting on progress. Contact the school if you still have questions, or look on their website as you should find a wealth of information on there. • Ask others for help, don’t worry if you don’t understand something or want to know what others are doing. Lots of people will be in the same position so talk to fellow parents for advice. Alternatively, there are some great advice websites like www.theschoolrun. co.uk and www.oxfordowl.co.uk or if you have a tutor, talk to them. At Explore Learning our tutors always help parents when they need advice and will take into account your child’s recent reports and feedback when tailoring their learning. Never be afraid to ask, there is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your child’s learning!

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familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 5 Independent Schools Open Days

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw. Please check websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days. Listings are subject to change.

Abercorn School W1B Boys and Girls Open Day: Wed 22 Nov, 9.15am. 2 ½ - 13 yrs (020 7100 4335 8www.abercornschool.com The American School in London NW8 Open Day: Tue 21 Nov, 8.45am; Wed 6 Dec, 6pm; Fri 27 Apr, 8.45am. Boys and Girls 4-18 yrs (020 7449 1200 8www.asl.org Channing School Highgate N6 Open Day: Jun Sch: By appointment. Senior Sch: Wed 8 Nov; Fri 17 Nov, Girls 4-18 yrs both 9.15am. 8www.channing.co.uk (020 8340 2328 Grange Park Prep School N21 Open Day: Tue 7 Nov, Tue 5 Dec, Tue 9 Jan; Tue 6 Feb; Tue 6 Mar; Tue 1 Boys 3-4 yrs, Girls 3-11 yrs. May; Tue 5 Jun; Tue 3 Jul, all 9.30am. 8www.gpps.org.uk (020 8360 4869 Kilburn Grange School Kilburn NW6 Open Day: Weekly Tours – every Wednesday from 2.30–3pm. Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs (020 7504 0547 8www.kilburngrangeschool.org.uk Mulberry House School London NW2 Open Day: Mon 6 Nov, Mon 20 Nov, Mon 4 Dec, all 6:30pm. Boys and Girls 2-7 yrs (020 8452 7340 8www.mulberryhouseschoool.com North Bridge House School NW1/3 Open Day: Tue 14 Nov, Tue 5 Dec, 9.30am (Nursery & Pre-Prep); Fri 10 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9mnths - 18 yrs Nov, Fri 9 Feb, 9am (Prep); Wed 8 Nov, 9am, Sat 9 Dec, 10am (Senior) 8www.northbridgehouse.com (020 7267 6266 North London Rudolf Steiner School N8 Open Day: Thu 16 Nov, 1.30-3pm Boys and Girls 0-7 yrs (020 8341 3770 8www.rudolfsteiner.london.sch.uk *[email protected] St Christopher School SG6 Open Day: Sat 28 Apr, 9.30am-1pm. Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs (01462 650 947 8www.stchris.co.uk Mount House School Hadley Wood EN4 Open Day: Sat 18 Nov, 10am-1pm. Girls 11-18 yrs (020 8449 6889 8www.mounthouse.org.uk South Hampstead High School NW3 Open Day: Fri 24 Nov, 9am (Sen Sch) . Girls 4-18 yrs (020 7435 2899 8www.shhs.gdst.net University College School Pre-Prep NW3 Open Day: Thu 7 Jun, 4.30pm (Jun Sch).Sen Sch by appointment. 4-7 yrs (020 7722 4433 8www.ucs.org.uk *[email protected]

Information events for Reception places in September 2018 & 2019

1 Nov, 22 Nov and 13 Dec 2017 (between 5-6pm)

Weekly Tours – every Wednesday from 2.30pm.

“Kilburn Grange consistently exceeds every expectation. I could not be happier with the way my daughter is growing and blossoming. We feel very lucky we found it!”—Parent

Telephone: 0207 504 0547 Mobile: 07764969802 Web: www.kilburngrangeschool.org.uk Email: [email protected] T: @KilburnGrangeSc F: facebook.com/kilburngrangeschool

Kilburn Grange School, Priory Park Road, London NW6 7UJ

6 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Parenting

Helping Your Child with Spelling: A Parent’s Guide By Andrew Campbell The new school year is here, and pretty soon your child may start bringing home weekly spelling lists to study. As a parent, you may be wondering, how can I help my child become a better speller? • Rainbow writing. Using coloured pencils in different ways can help to make parts of words more memorable. Highlight the tricky part of a word or write the tricky part in a different colour. • Rearrange letters from your child’s name or other known words to make new Firstly, it is useful to understand the Here are some activities you can try at words. different ways in which children home with your child to help them with remember spellings. their spelling skills. • Enjoy playing word games with your child eg. Scrabble, Boggle, Hangman Visual: ‘Does it look right?’ Children • Show your child how words can be broke and Word lotto. respond to the shapes of words and down into syllables e.g. together = to- • Play the ‘plasticine writing challenge’. patterns of the letter-strings within get-her, discovery = dis-cov-er-y. Flatten a piece of plasticine and use them. • Ask your child to draw pictures for each a pencil to ‘write’ a spelling word in it. Auditory: ‘Sound it out!’ Children of the spelling words. Get them to write Now look at the word together. After a recognise the relationship between the word below the picture. Take all the while, smooth over the plasticine and sounds and letters or groups of letters pictures and create a spelling reference challenge your child to write the word and analyses words in these terms. book. from memory. Kinaesthetic: ‘Let the spelling come • Create a word search with your child’s When studying spelling, encourage your out of the end of your pencil!’ Children spelling words. Make a grid of 10 squares child to use the ‘Look, Say, Cover, Write, become accustomed to making specific by 10 squares, writing the spelling words Check” method. hand-movements to produce particular in the grid, then filling up the other words or letter strings. squares with random letters. Keep a list Look: first look at the whole word carefully and if there is one part of the Linguistic: ‘Why is it spelt like that?’ of your child’s spelling words nearby for Children learn to be aware of them to refer to. word that is difficult, look at that part in relationships between words or parts • Together, think of ways to remember the more detail. of words based on meanings, syntax, words. For example, You HEAR with your Say: say the word as you look at it, using derivations etc. EAR; He will be a FRIEND until the END; different ways of pronouncing it if that Big Elephants Can Always Upset Small will make it more memorable. Next, it is helpful to appreciate that all Elephants. These types of memorisation Cover: cover the word. children have a preferred learning style tricks are called mnemonics. and by offering your child activities which Write: write the word from memory, suit their style, you will help them learn • Encourage your child write a story saying the word as you do so. using as many of their spelling words as more quickly and effectively. Check: Have you got it right? If yes, try possible and also include illustrations. writing it again and again. If not start Visual Learners learn by looking at the • Trace, copy and replicate. Write the letter/word as it is said or written. again. Repeat the process and keep word on a sheet of paper ensuring that practising until the word has been spelt Oral Kinaesthetic Learners learn by it is spelt correctly and is large enough correctly three times saying the letter/word as it is viewed or to trace over. Trace over the word and written. say it at the same time. Move to the Above all, ensure that your child feels confident that, as a writer, they always Manual Kinaesthetic Learners learn by word you have just written and write it writing/creating/modeling/tracing the out as you say it. Turn the page over and have your interest, admiration and letter/word as it is viewed or spoken. write the word as you say it, then check support. that it is spelt it correctly.

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familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 7 Clubs, Classes, Parties and Activities We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.

Rising Stars Birthday Parties (N2 + greater London) A full service offering which includes venues, entertainment, invitations, catering and going home presents so parents can sit back and enjoy the party! We offer various themes including football, multi – sports, nerf guns, dance, gymnastics and bespoke themes whilst playing the latest big tunes. For further enquiries, contact *[email protected] or call (020 8150 6655 8www.risingstarsactivities.com Parentville Parties, the free online planning tool for children’s parties! Parentville is here to make planning a kid’s dream party fun and rewarding… without all the stress. Find Party Venues, Entertainment, Cakes, Decorations, Photographers… Browse Photos and verified parents’ reviews under each listing while comparing prices. You can also chat freely with the providers to discuss your specific requirements. Once your choice is make, booking is only a few clicks away! All providers are tested or met personally. 8www.parentville.co.uk CHILDREN’S PARTIES Flip Out Brent Cross (serving north LANGUAGES & CHILD DEVELOPMENT London). The UK’s most advanced Adam Ants (various) Offer high energy trampoline arena, trick park and ninja Lingotots Muswell Hill North London Join fun parties from 1-8 years. Magic/Balloon skills centre. Perfect for all ages. Ninja our French and Spanish group classes Modelling/Puppets/Music/Dancing - warrior course (as seen on TV!). Laser tailored for babies, toddlers and children loads of fun! Ask about the special Build maze room. Foam pits. Battle beam. from 0-11 years old. We provide a range a Bear / Olympic Sports parties. They Sensational themed party rooms. Tumble of age-specific term time classes where have amazing Face Painters/Hire Tables track. Summer camps. Awesome fun! children are introduced to the fascinating and Chairs. Bouncy castles/ Ball Ponds (020 8050 23918 sounds of a new language though our - invite your favourite character Peppa/ 8www.flipout.co.uk/brent-cross unique multi-sensory blend of music, Mickey/Spiderman/Elsa and more. movement and rhymes. These incorporate Kiddikicks If your child is mad about 8www.adamantsparties.co.uk singing, dancing, stories, play and crafts, football, we offer child and toddler *[email protected] which instil confidence in languages football themed birthday party (020 8959 1045 / (07969 121 094 in a fun environment. Holiday camps, entertainment. Book a tailor-made party private classes and School PPA Cover are Billy - Junior Magician available for that packs in the party with your kids. available on request. Book your free trial: parties, 40 minute children’s show London and Greater London. 8www.lingotot.com (0845 0680 8148 includes magical pass the parcel followed (020 7937 7965 *[email protected] *[email protected] by 20 minutes close up magic for the 8www.kiddikicks.co.uk adults. Show suitable for 5-10 years. Spanish Courses (N10) for +7 in Muswell Little Volcanoes Science Club and Weekend and after school parties, most Hill. Spanish immersion classes on Birthday Parties A unique combination areas covered. £45 for the hour. Wednesdays 4 to 5pm. Starting 11th of science experiments and hands-on (07880 956 690 Jan for 12 weeks. Small group. Activities sensory acitvities with drama and singing. *[email protected] include art & craft, music and games. Learn while having fun! Ages 4-8 years. Total price £130. Also 1-2-1 lessons for Danny Grant Soccer School offers action- Topic across Biology, Chemistry, Physics teenagers and adults. Call Carolina on packed football classes for energetic & and Geography. To take home; Invaluable (07985 171 789 or go to enthusiastic players aged 3 to 11. Non- topic hands-outs and toys or hand-made 8www.spanishlanguagetuition.com stop football fun for 3 & 4 yrs and 5 & 6 products. (07889 920 117 or yrs as they develop fitness and football *[email protected] skills and play exciting weekly matches. Facebook: Little Volcanoes Science MUSIC AND MOVEMENT 7-12 yrs can join our Belsize Rockets team 8www.littlevolcanoes.co.uk Colourstrings – for a brilliant start in for weekend football training and league London Academy of Gymnastics and music! Call (020 8444 9435 for a trial of matches. Football and general sports 3 discounted lessons or email birthday parties also bookable. Dance (LAGAD) N2, N3, N8, N10, N20, N22 and coming soon to N17. Quality, fun and *[email protected] Call (020 8446 0891 for more details or 8www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk visit 8www.dgsoccer.co.uk safety conscious gymnastics classes with fully trained, highly qualified coaches. The Strings Club (NW3 & N1) Enhance Dramarama: Saturday Morning Drama, LAGAD run After School, Weekend Classes, your child’s development through our Drama Exam, Street Dance & Musical Holiday Camps & Birthday Parties. In award-winning Term-Time courses for Theatre classes in NW3, for boys & girls Muswell Hill, Crouch, East Finchley, children aged 4 to 11. Bespoke sessions aged 3 to 15. Performing Arts classes aim Totteridge, Wood Green and coming soon designed and delivered by the best to develop acting skills and performance to Tottenham. Classes for ages 3 ½ - 18 musicians in the UK. Will inspire your technique with creative activities and yrs. Beginner to Advanced. If you missed child’s love of music and promote all- exciting end of term plays, dance shows the fun when you were young, try Adult round musicianship. Delivered in small and musicals. Drama, Musical Theatre Ballet Classes in Muswell Hill. LAGAD aim groups, starting from only £15 per lesson. & Street Dance birthday parties also to inspire and ignite a passion. (01212 969 204 bookable. Call (020 8446 0891 or visit 8www.lagad.co.uk *[email protected] 8www.thestringsclub.org/northlondon 8www.dramarama.co.uk (07887 367 171

8 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Clubs, Classes, Parties and Activities

SPORTS AND EXERCISE Little Kickers Enabling children aged SWIMMING 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop Danny Grant Soccer School offers action- their coordination, balance and agility Swimming Rocks is a premier swimming packed football classes for energetic & through football activity classes. lesson provider offering lessons to babies, enthusiastic players aged 3 to 11. Non- children and adults in 7 venues across stop football fun for 3 & 4 yrs and 5 & 6 Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, London. Recognised as one of the leading yrs as they develop fitness and football Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet: swimming tuition company’s delivering ( skills and play exciting weekly matches. Julia Levene 020 8201 1084 progressive swimming lessons with a * 7-12 yrs can join our Belsize Rockets team [email protected]. strong reputation based on effortless for weekend football training and league North Finchley, Southgate, Enfield town, service and employing some of the most matches. Football and general sports Enfield St Lukes: experienced swimming instructors in birthday parties also bookable. Emma Hanna (020 7684 7969 London. Term time and holiday crash Call (020 8446 0891 for more details or *[email protected] courses. Lessons 7 days a week. Private visit 8www.dgsoccer.co.uk and shared lessons and small groups for 8www.littlekickers.co.uk babies. Enjoy-a-ball The sports coach program 8 Rising Stars Football Club (N2 + NW2) www.swimmingrocks.co.uk that helps today’s children become * High quality football coaching in a [email protected] confident adults. A child-development (07557 051 904 centred program rather than purely safe and fun environment. Children will sports. Children from 2 years to 9 years learn and develop core football skills to Tiny Swimmers (N3, N4, N7, EN5) old. (03334 330 845 (07763 746 886 ensure that they progress and fulfil their Swimming courses are based on a rolling *[email protected] potential. We offer a boys and girls only 10-week progressive programme. Baby, 8www.enjoy-a-ball.com football club! Age: Pre Reception – Year 6. Toddler, Entry level and 1to1. Join at Book now (020 8150 6655 any stage through the school term. Gojumpin (EN1) Interconnecting *[email protected] Structured classes with a different focus trampolines for free jumping, foam pits, each week. Classes teach safety in and tumble tracks, battle beams and more. Sports Academy UK (N8, NW7 & TW10) provide 4-16 year olds with an exciting around the pool whilst gaining water Under 5s have their own area devoted to confidence in a fun, safe and nurturing them. Also, birthday parties, school and and educational activity program at weekends, during term time. Encouraging environment. group events, free running classes, fitness * and developing young people to grow Email [email protected] or call classes, teen nights, toddler classes ( both as athletes and individuals. Summer 020 8351 4413 and other special events and sessions 8www.tinyswimmers.co.uk throughout the year. camps also available. Call Grant Felix on 8www.gojumpin.com/enfield/ (08000 428 842 or see the website for more information: Kiddikicks (NW1, N16, NW6, W9) Football 8www.sportsacademyuk.com Coaching for children 18 months to 10 years old (020 7937 7965 *[email protected] www.kiddikicks.co.uk/timetable Continued on page 10

SPORTS ACADEMY UK For Boys & Girls Aged 4-16yrs LITTLE SPORTIES for Enjoy 18 Sports A Year 4&5 years is a 90-minute class. We ENROL NOW coach two sports each week plus fun Classes at: Mill Hill (Sat AM) & games in a safe Classes at: Crouch End (Sat PM) and secure environment. MAIN SCHOOL for 6-16 years is a 3-hour class where our students train T: 08000 248 842 M: 07764 211489 weekly with our team of qualified WWW.SPORTSACADEMYUK.COM coaches. Each week [email protected] we coach 2 sports and a team CHILDCARE VOUCHERS ACCEPTED challenge.

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 9 Clubs, Classes, Parties and Activities

THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS DANCE Leaders are Readers award-winning reading programme, exemplary English, Dramarama: Saturday Morning Drama, A&F Chantraine, The Dance of maths, 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+ curricula have Drama Exam, Street Dance & Musical Expression (South & West Hampstead) for helped more than 3500 children from Theatre classes in NW3, for boys & girls all those who love to dance! Welcoming 3+ to 13 years old, for over 17 years, with aged 3 to 15. Performing Arts classes aim new and old pupils/ children from 5 a 90% pass rate for children taking to develop acting skills and performance years to teenagers are introduced to an entrance exams to top grammar & technique with creative activities and exciting new year of dance with a friendly independent schools. Saturday School exciting end of term plays, dance shows and creative approach. All main styles – for the Autumn term enrolling now. Free and musicals. Drama, Musical Theatre classical – contemporary – jazz. Contact: Saturday School presentations on 11, 18 & Street Dance birthday parties also Patricia on (020 7435 4247 or & 25 Nov and 2, 9 Dec at St Andrews’s bookable. Call (020 8446 0891 or visit *[email protected] CE Primary School 297 Chase Road, 8www.dramarama.co.uk Southgate N14 6JA Free assessment on London Academy of Gymnastics and open days. Call: (01992 651 300 is a children’s day (LAGAD) N2, N3, N8, N10, N20, N22 Holiday Academy Dance 8www.leadersarereaders.co.uk camp in NW1, for children aged 3-12 (in and coming soon to N17. Quality, fun and age groups) from all schools. Go along for safety conscious gymnastics classes with Fleet Tutors Run a 5-day or 3-day exciting sessions including music, drama, fully trained, highly qualified coaches. small group preparation small group art, sport and forest school each school LAGAD run After School, Weekend Classes, preparation courses for 11+ or 13+ entrance holiday. Sessions run over the Winter Holiday Camps & Birthday Parties. In exams. These are run by highly successful Holidays from 18-22 Dec and 12-16 Feb Muswell Hill, Crouch, East Finchley, Maths, English, Verbal reasoning and half term at Cavendish School. Totteridge, Wood Green and coming soon Non-Verbal Reasoning during the week, (07585 002 327 to Tottenham. Classes for ages 3 ½ - 18 with students sitting mock exam papers. *[email protected] yrs. Beginner to Advanced. If you missed Call (08456 445 452 or go to 8www.holidayacademy.co.uk the fun when you were young, try Adult 8www.fleet-tutors.co.uk Ballet Classes in Muswell Hill. LAGAD aim Perform Weekly drama, dance and to inspire and ignite a passion. JK Educate provide educational advice, singing. Ages: 4-12. A unique mix of 8www.lagad.co.uk *[email protected] assessments and tutoring for all children 7 drama, dance and singing specially (07887 367 171 +, 11+, 13+ to GCSE’s and A levels. Help your formulated to bring out every child’s child achieve the result they deserve. true potential. 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10 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Clubs, Classes, Parties and Activities

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familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 11 Getting Ready for the Holiday Season

Not in the festive mood yet? Here are some great ideas to get in the festive mood with the whole family. contributor: Claire Winter • Go Ice-skating. Check out your local outdoor rink at the Winter Wonderland at Crews Hill, Enfield (www.christmas-wonderland.co.uk) or make a special trip to the Tower of London (www.toweroflondonicerink.co.uk). There are also pop-up rinks at Canary Wharf, the Natural History Museum and Hampton Court, which are open right through till February next year. • Go and see the Christmas lights. If you’re on budget this a great way to get into the festive spirit without having to spend a fortune. Most towns and cities also have a festive switch-on, where a local celebrity or panto star turns on the lights and there is usually some free entertainment. Check out the festivities on Heath Street and High Street, Hampstead on Sun 29 Nov and St James Square, Muswell Hill on Sat 9 Dec. • Help others. Find out what your local food bank needs at Christmas time. Maybe they are collecting stocking fillers for children or need extra festive food. Get your children to think of someone locally who might like a visit or some extra help during the Christmas period.

Help Your Child Discover The Joy of Music Christmas is coming and musical instruments remain popular choices for special gifts under the tree. But where do parent/guardians start when considering what to buy? And how do you make sure your child gets the most from their wonderful new gift? Amy, director at The Strings Club, an award-winning music education company, offers some great advice for anyone looking for an inspirational musical gift this festive season: Choose an instrument to suit your child’s age. For children aged 4 or 5 we know from experience ukulele and violin are perfect because they are small and light. Make sure it is the right size and good quality! Be careful when buying an instrument online. We’d recommend visiting your friendly local music shop to try out some instruments. Don’t forget to accessorise! You will need things like a tuner, violin rosin, cases for ukulele/guitar. Support your child. Learn how to tune the instrument - this is a hard thing for children to master and will boost your listening pleasure! Practice makes perfect! Weekly music lessons will help turn their new gift into an amazing skill for life. The Strings Club’s Spring Term Time Classes start Saturday 13th January, from 9.30am, and priced from only £15 per lesson. Have any questions about instruments and courses or want to book? Give The Strings Club a call on 0121 296 9204 or go to thestringsclub.org/termtime.

Get Your Christmas Cards Sorted Early Pioneering charity Brain Tumour Research has taken an innovative approach to their range of Christmas cards this year, signing up supporter and artist, Caroline Copland, to design a new card for 2017. Caroline, who sadly lost her mother Janet to a brain tumour three years ago, was inspired by the Christmas Hope Trees which decorate the charity’s Research Centres of Excellence across the UK each year. The Hope Tree cards will join other festive favourites in the charity’s range. All cards are priced at £4 per pack of ten, with at least 60% of the proceeds going towards supporting vital brain tumour research. Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK focused on funding sustainable research to find a cure for brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer. Order via: www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/christmas-cards

Pick your Own Tree! Christmas isn’t Christmas until you’ve chosen your tree. Our experts (wearing kilts!) will be on hand to give advice at our new stores in Upper Holloway, Regents Park, Clissold Park & Camden Gardens from the 24th Nov, So pay us a visit and let us get the festivities well and truly under way. It’s a great family day out and we even have a delivery service from our stores between 7pm-10pm to local postcodes for an extra cost. It couldn’t be easier! Our stores are re-stocked every morning with dozens of trees, freshly cut and delivered straight from our plantations. You won’t get fresher, fuller or more fabulous trees anywhere else! USE CODE : FAM17 to get your free gift with purchase More Details on Locations: www.pinesandneedles.com/christmas-tree-stores

12 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk †Gift Guide¢

Whether you’re looking for toys designed with tough toddler play in mind, to encourage coordination and Hatchimals imaginative play, or to find your inner unicorn, there’s Egg Surprise something for everyone. Hatchimals are magical creatures that come inside Cat Buildin’ Crew E-Z Machines® R/C eggs and they need you to help You are never too young to start playing them hatch. Take with a Remote-Control vehicle. Designed for care of them and toddlers, the single button activation allows keep them warm the child to drive the Cat machine forward and happy! when pressing the button or watch it spin Ages 5+. in circles when released. There are 2 fun RRP £74.99 characters to collect including; Haulin’ Harry™ and Rugged Randy™. Ages 2+ RRP £16.99 www.toystate.com Hamleys Bakewell Bear At 110cm tall, the ultimate Marvel Web Wheelie™ RC teddy bear, ready for cuddles. You’re never too big for a bear Enjoy the thrill of action at high speed! Show off like this! Spider-Man’s impressive moves like popping a Ages 1+. wheelie, 360-degree stunt spins and even light up RRP £140 the rear wheels while driving! Your Spidey senses will be tingling all over! Ages 3+ RRP £49.99 www.toystate.com Cycling Paddington There are plenty of fun and Fairy Snakes and Ladders & Ludo adventures to be had with the 35cm Cycling Paddington Bear Traditional favourites are given an exciting, magical twist as he cycles around on his red in Fairy Snakes and Ladders & Ludo. Players must race to bicycle to a catchy tune. the enchanted treehouse in Fairy Snakes & Ladders, or Ages 3+. turn the board over and gather counters at the fairy ring RRP £29.99 in the magical game of Ludo. Children aged 5-9 will love the colourful illustrations of friendly fairies and unicorns! Selected lines, subject to availability in store RRP £9.50 www.orchardtoys.co.uk and online www.hamleys.com

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 13 Pantos & Seasonal Shows Compiled by Anna Blackshaw We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.

Tue 5 - Sun 31 Dec - The Tiger Who Came to Tea A musical play adapted and directed by David Wood, based on the book by Judith Kerr. Direct from a smash-hit West End season. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! The tea- guzzling tiger is back in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised! Ages 3+

Tue 12 - Sun 31 Dec - Hush-A-Bye Nestle among branches and meet the neighbours in Oily Cart’s immersive tree-top world. The leafy canopy is home to some of the creatures you might expect, and one you definitely won’t. Experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of a woodland wonderland, the audience must explore to find answers. Hush-A-Bye is an interactive, multi-sensory production for the very young, with live music, puppets and an enchanting environment. Ages 3-5 yrs Cadogan Hall The Gruffalo’s Child Live, 5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X Lyric Theatre 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com Sat 16 Dec - Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Christmas Cracker Don’t miss this fun, festive favourite, featuring West End singers Graham Bickley Artsdepot and Anna-Jane Casey, hit Christmas songs, best-loved carols and plenty of joy and sparkle!Programme to include: I Believe In Father Christmas, 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 Christmas (Baby Please Come Home), I’ll Be Home For Christmas, It’s 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year, Last Christmas, All I Want For Christmas, Let It Snow, A Christmas Festival, A Christmas Overture, Have Sun 12 Nov - Leaf Go along and hear the life story of a very special leaf Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, Jingle Bells… and many more! in this warm, intimate and playful new piece for under 3s, inspired by nature and the seasons. Framed within an evocative soundscape, this Wed 20 Dec - The Snowman and Carnival of the Animals Give the whole is the perfect introduction to theatre for the very young. At the end of family a magical Christmas treat as The Snowman is shown on the big the performance, children are invited onto the stage to play among the screen while the Mozart Symphony Orchestra provides a live soundtrack. leaves and explore a landscape created by the changing seasons. Ages Saint-Saëns’ Carnival of the Animals will be performed with lots of extras 0-3 yrs and fun surprises including poetry by Ogden Nash and others, terrible Christmas jokes from the conductor’s podium and wonderful cartoon Sun 19 Nov - Morgan & West: More Magic for Kids! Time-travelling animations projected onto a screen above the orchestra. Ages 4+ magicians Morgan & West return to the stage with a marvellous magic show full of crazy capers for the young, old, and everyone in-between! Thu 21 Dec - Father Christmas and Peter and the Wolf Raymond Brigg’s Expect the unexpected, believe the unbelievable, but do not dare Father Christmas is brought to life this Christmas on the big screen with miss the unmissable Morgan & West! Can everyone’s favourite duo of live orchestral accompaniment from the Mozart Symphony Orchestra deception finally find fame, fortune, and a box of fondant fancies? Find and actors providing the dialogue and sound effects. Prokofiev’s chilling out all of this and more in Morgan & West: More Magic For Kids! Ages 5+ tale of one small boy’s bravery against a wild wolf has thrilled generations of children and is the ideal way to introduce young people to orchestral Mon 20 - Fri 24 Nov - Shakespeare Schools Festival Shakespeare Schools music. The perfect Christmas treat! Ages 4+ Foundation is proud to present the world’s largest youth drama festival at artsdepot. Whether you are a parent, friend or another local school, you are invited to an exhilarating evening of theatre where you will see Chickenshed Shakespeare’s stories brought to life like never before. In the celebratory finale of their Festival journey, 30,000 young people from primary, Chase Side Southgate N14. secondary and special schools across the country will unite in their local 020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk professional theatre in thrilling performance evenings. It promises to be Wed 22 Nov – Sat 6 Jan - Rapunzel Chickenshed is delighted to present the most exciting Festival yet! Rapunzel in a new and exciting musical version of the well-loved fairy Sat 25 - Sun 26 Nov - The Night Before Christmas On the night before tale. Mysterious, romantic and life-affirming, this will be a dramatic re- Christmas, Emily stares out of the window, hugs her teddy and waits telling of a story you thought you knew! Featuring Chickenshed’s famously excitedly for the morning, while in the corner a little mouse called Eddie large and amazingly diverse cast, this magical, musical and mysterious can’t understand why only humans are allowed to get presents. So he sets version of Rapunzel will dazzle and delight children and adults alike. Ages off in search of Father Christmas to find out for himself. Ages 3+ 5+

Wed 29 Nov - Sun 3 Dec - Around the World in 80 Days The mysterious Tue 5 – Sat 30 Dec - Christmas Tales Do you like puppets? Do you like and fabulously wealthy Phileas Fogg wagers his life’s fortune that he can funny characters? Do you like songs? Do you like dancing? Do you like circumnavigate the globe in just 80 days. Join Fogg and his loyal valet, Christmas? Then you are going to LOVE Christmas Tales! The Tales from Passepartout, as they voyage from the misty alleys of Victorian London the Shed team take all of their usual fun and silliness, then they supersize to the exotic subcontinent and the Wild West in a race against the clock. it to create a festive extravaganza guaranteed to entertain the very Ages 7+ youngest audiences at this most wonderful time of the year! Ages 0-6yrs

14 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Pantos & Seasonal Shows

Sat 18 Nov - The Steadfast Tin Soldier There once was a remarkable tin Cockpit Theatre soldier who fell in love with a beautiful paper dancer and then tumbled Gateforth Street, London, NW8 out of a window, so beginning a perilous journey into the unknown. This playful retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s poetic story uses light, 020 7258 2925 www.thecockpit.org.uk projected animations and simple materials that are skilfully transformed Fri 10 – Sat 11 Nov - Odysseus Plastok An odyssey about damaging the through puppetry to create a theatrical experience that will engage and environment. Born out of a plastic bag, Odysseus Plastok, swept away touch young hearts and minds. Ages 3+ by the winds and the sea’s currents find out who he is through different Fri 24 – Sat 25 Nov - Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails Our encounters.This madly exhilarating ode to the protection of oceans is a Storyteller is on the run from those three-headed monsters, trying to committed play that makes us reflect Ages 6+. bring you the most fantastic tales from the Magic Land of Three. Are you Sat 11 – Sun 12 Nov - OOups! An original performance combining circus really sure what happened to the wolf and those three little pigs? What (acrobatics, juggling) and urban culture (dance, beat boxing). Two traders about Goldilocks? Why was she walking in those woods? And as for the are on the run after a misappropriation of funds… A crazy, nutty show three Billy Goats Gruff, how did they really deal with that troll? All will be with an unbridled rhythm, that talks about money in a humorous, musical revealed in this beautiful show using puppets and props. Age Range: 3+ and visual way. Sat 9 Dec - Penguin Ben is delighted when he rips open his present, inside is a penguin. “Hello Penguin!” says Ben. Penguin says nothing. Ben tickles Penguin; he pulls his funniest face; he puts on a happy hat; sings a silly Dugdale Theatre song and does a dizzy dance. Penguin says nothing. So Ben fires Penguin 39 London Road, Enfield, EN2 into outer space. Penguin comes back to earth without a word! It isn’t 020 8807 6680 www.dugdalecentre.co.uk until a passing lion intervenes that Penguin finally speaks and when he does, Ben discovers something that was really worth the wait. Based on Sat 2 Dec - Christmas with Children’s International Voices of Enfield No the award-winning book by Polly Dunbar, Penguin is exciting, surreal and Christmas is complete without carols by John Rutter and the Children’s full of surprises, with lively songs by Tom Gray, of Gomez. Ages 3+ International Voices of Enfield. Join the angelic voices of our choirs as they sing favourite Carols and Hymns together! They will tackle excerpts from Sat 16 Dec - Fairytales Gone Bad: Grannylocks / The Monstrous ‘Wassail’ a new fun work by Alexander L’Estrange and sequences from Duckling Join performance poet Joseph Coelho, National Poetry Handel’s ‘Messiah’, joined by Enfield oboist Joel Wilson and other musical Day Ambassador, as he unravels familiar fairytales to create fresh guests. These concerts will be a special opportunity for Enfield residents to contemporary classics in an enchanting performance for young and old come together and enjoy some fantastic Christmas music. alike. A father returns home with a magical cloak. A cloak that hides a story… Did you know that the ugly duckling was never ugly? He was truly Sat 9 Dec - Christmas Tales An amazingly fun and festive show from the monstrous! Or that Goldilocks was never a tale about a little girl. It was creative team behind the hugely popular Tales from the Shed. Get ready always a tale about a granny – a mean, thieving granny who has plans for for a full-on family Talesomime (a pantomime starring all the favourite something quite nasty. Join the poetic storyteller as he unwinds the true Tales characters) - it’s going to be high energy, interactive and brilliantly stories behind the happily ever afters and discover they’re maybe not as entertaining... Oh no, it’s not! Oh yes, it is! So take your little ones to The charming as you remember! Ages 3+ Dugdale this festive season and Can-Can, The Thing That Goes Blurgh and the Tales team will be right ‘behind you’! Ages 0-6yrs Jacksons Lane Sat 16 Dec - Starlight Express Starlight Express is a nine year old boy’s dream. In his dream, his toy trains come to life for a spectacular race 269a Archway Road, London, N6 across America. The competition between steam, electric and diesel 020 8341 4421 www.jacksonslane.org.uk engines is fast and fierce with entries from Russia, Great Britain, Germany, Japan and the U.S.A, and then there’s the underdog Rusty, a small Sun 26 Nov - Ugly Duckling Meet the most unusual duckling the pond steam engine with a heart of gold, but who will win the race?? Join the has ever seen. In their nest at the edge of a pond, the baby ducklings wait characters in this magical musical performed entirely on Roller Skates! impatiently for Mummy’s enormous egg to hatch. But their new brother doesn’t look like everyone else. He doesn’t even quack like a proper duckling! With a menagerie of mischievous animals, tutti frutti and York Half Moon Theatre Theatre Royal bring to life Hans Christian Andersen’s well-known tale. Ages 3+ 43 White Horse Road, London E1 020 7709 8900 www.halfmoon.org.uk Sat 2 – Sun 24 Dec - Underneath a Magical Moon A reimagining of Peter Pan, as told by Wendy Darling... Do you believe in fairies? Through her Sat 11 Nov - Twinkle Twinkle There are melodies that live in all of us. No open window, Wendy Darling sees blue lagoons and magical moons in the one knows that more than Marty the puppy, whose bedtime songs and night sky. And tonight, her story takes flight… Leading playwright Mike playtime with his dad are the best part of his day. But sometimes, you Kenny reimagines the enchanting story of Peter Pan through Wendy’s have to learn how to find the music inside yourself. Twinkle Twinkle is eyes in this sparkling new production. Music, movement and a sprinkle of a beautiful adventure in music and light, featuring brilliant puppetry, tutti frutti magic will enthral children and their families as the power of magical interaction and a gorgeous original score. Ages 1-3 yrs imagination gives birth to a fantastical world of adventure. Ages 3+

ADAPTED FROM JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER’S AWARD-WINNING PICTURE BOOK

H H H H H ‘Everything good children’s theatre should be’ The List

22 NOV 2017 - 7 JAN 2018 gruffaloschildlive.com The Gruffalo’s Child © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2004 – Macmillan Children’s Books Axel Scheffler 2004 – Macmillan Children’s Child © Julia Donaldson and Gruffalo’s The familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 15 Pantos & Seasonal Shows

Little Angel Theatre Lyric Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES 0844 482 9674 www.nimaxtheatres.com Fri 10 Nov – Sun 4 Feb – Go Noah Go! A Great Flood is coming and Mr and Mrs Noah have been set the most impossible task: to take two of Wed 22 Nov – Sun 7 Jan – The Gruffalo’s Child Live Following hot on each animal and build them a home! A magical ark that is built on stage, the heels of The Gruffalo’s monstrous West End success comes Tall over 50 carved animals and a host of songs to sing along with make this Stories’ much anticipated sequel, The Gruffalo’s Child based on the production one of Little Angel Theatre’s most successful and impressive award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. shows. John Agard’s stunning Caribbean adaptation of this timeless story, One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Child tiptoes out into the combining puppetry, masks, stories and songs returns for another thrilling snow. After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist… does he? season that will enthral the entire family. Ages 5 – 10 yrs Expect 55 minutes of magical, musical fun for families with children aged 3 and up. Sat 11 – Sun 12 Nov – Great Odds Exploring ambition, communication and friendship, the story follows the Great Odds; Marco, Grouch and Jewels, on an exciting and sometimes wobbly journey… Dreams change shape, unexpected things are uncovered and success comes through surprising discoveries. Integrating visual storytelling, British Sign Language, live Millfield Theatre music, sound and puppetry, Mac’s Arcadian presents Great Odds, its first Silver Street, London, N18 play, in co- production with Lighthouse Poole, supported by Improbable. Ages 6 to 11. 020 8807 6680 www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Fri 17 Nov – Sun 4 Feb - Sleepyhead It’s been a long day for Dad and he Thu 23 Nov – Sun 31 Dec - Jack & the Beanstalk Fe Fi Fo Fum, I smell a can hardly keep his eyes open. All he wants is for Baby to go to sleep so Pantomime in Edmonton! Join Jack and his mum, Dame Dottie Trott as he can catch up on a little shut-eye too. Dad’s usually got some tricks up they face the dastadly, Fleshcreep. Meet Jill, add the craziness of Simple his sleeve to help send Baby off to the Land of Nod. But tonight, Baby has Simon, the magic of Fairy Deluxe, Buttercup the cow, Henrietta Hen and other ideas… As soon as Dad’s out of the way, Baby gets his hands on the you have all the ingredients for another fun packed Millfield Pantomime! magic top hat, and when his friend Rabbit shows up the fun and games Unmissable entertainment is guaranteed in a show packed with special really begin! Mix in some magic, a pinch of circus and a large dollop of effects, stunning costumes, beautiful scenery and, of course, lots of silliness and you have the recipe for a little adventure with a lot of laughs! comedy that will have the whole family laughing along from beginning to Ages 2 – 5 yrs end.

Fri 1 – Sun 24 Dec – Santa’s Little Workshop Ever wanted to be an elf for a day? Put on your best elf outfit, get into the festive spirit and turn up for your first day of work at Santa’s Little Workshop! Start your experience by seeing ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, brought to life with a touch of magic and sparkle in the Little Elf Cinema. Then enjoy crafty festive puppet making on the elf production line. You’ll even get a chance to meet “The Boss”, our very own puppet Santa. Ages 3-9 yrs

16 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 17 Where’s Santa?

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw. We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiles several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out. You better watch out! You better not cry… Yes it’s that time of year where again where young and old The Broadwalk Centre Edgware alike look forward to sitting down with the jolly old man for a chat about wishes and wants. The Mall Wood Green (N22) As before, £1 of Leicester Square (WC2H) Christmas in Leicester Call him what you will - Father every sale will go to The Mall’s Charity of the Square will transform the centre of bustling Year, which is Mind in Haringey. Open from London into a wonderland including traditional Christmas, Santa, Pere Noel – Sat 25 Nov - Sun 24 Dec, Mon to Sat 12pm – Christmas markets with hand-crafted goods a visit with him is part of the 6pm & Sun 11am – 5pm. The Mall will also be and delicious food and drinks, and a Santa’s magic and tradition that makes working with The Rainbow Trust to deliver a Grotto where children will be able to meet the this time of year so special for Gift Wrapping Service. They will be coming man himself. From 10th Nov – 7th Jan. in 10am – 4pm on Thursday 21st and Friday 8www.christmasinleicestersquare.com families! 22nd December. For a £2 donation, people will be able to have their presents wrapped by Magical Lantern Festival London (W4) This Now, you just need to decide volunteers from the charity. To book visit the year’s Christmas themed Lantern Festival which ones (and how many) you website: will illuminate the gardens at Chiswick House 8www.bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/woodgreen from Fri 24 Nov - Mon 1 Jan, turning it into will make part of your Christmas a spectacular fusion of dual culture, vibrant story this year! Here’s our list Wyevale Garden Centre, Enfield (EN2) From colours and artistic sculptures! Prepare to enter of some of the best choices for 18th November - 24th December take your a magical experience and discover life-sized Little Diggers along and enjoy a delicious, and large-than-life lanterns in all shapes and North London Families… freshly-prepared breakfast or tea! The whole forms, including ‘Santa and his Reindeers’. There Brent Cross Shopping Centre (NW4) 16 Nov- family meets Santa, children decorate a festive will also be a food and drink area, bar, Santa’s 24 Dec: Santa’s a modern man these days. biscuit and then choose their very own present Grotto, handful of fairground rides for children And he’s got the technology to prove it. This to take home! and merchandise marquee. year Santa returns to Brent Cross with a new 8www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk/breakfast- 8www.magicallantern.uk immersive 360° digital experience. The grotto or-tea-with-father-christmas Museum of London Docklands (E14) Visit the is now fully booked, however there may be walk ZSL London Zoo (NW1) Throughout every Victorian Santa’s Grotto on Sat 2 & Sun 3, up slots available. Visit the grotto staff in centre weekend in December and the final week Fri 8, Sat 9, Sun 10, Fri 15 – Sat 23 December. to enquire. 8www.brentcross.co.uk/grotto leading up to Christmas, visitors can book to Join Santa in the Victorian Walk – a life size Christmas Wonderland (EN2) A warm welcome Meet Santa at ZSL London Zoo as an extra recreation of a Victorian London street. Each to Christmas Wonderland London! For over wintery treat. Join in arts and crafts with child who meets Santa receives a special gift, 15 years “Christmas Wonderland” in Crews Mrs Claus and chat with cheeky elves before with the option of purchasing a photograph of Hill, Enfield, London has brought delight to heading into Santa’s grotto to meet the main the magical moment to take home. thousands of smiling children and they invite man himself and receive an early Christmas gift. 8www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum- you and your family to join in this year upon 9th, 10th & 16th-24th December. 8www.zsl.org london-docklands/ the “Santa’s Express”—no booking required! Portobello Winter Festival (W10) This unique Departing from the North Pole Station you will Further Afield festive celebration at Acklam Road in Portobello journey deep into Christmas Wonderland to on Sat 9th and Sun 10th Dec will see music fill meet Santa Claus! Open from 10th November. The Broadwalk Centre Edgware (HA8) A the air as families celebrate and shoppers pick 8www.christmas-wonderland.co.uk special workshop creating life-size Christmas up gifts unavailable anywhere else. Among grotto themed items from recycled items in the activities taking place will be festive street King Henry’s Walk (N1) You will find Santa preparation of Santa’s arrival to the centre. performances, Santa’s Grotto, food, drink and handing out gifts to children from his grotto Santa will be making a special appearance more. 8www.westway.org/winterfestival in the woodland at King Henry’s Walk Garden to the centre and will be available for photo Winter Fayre on Sat 9th Dec. Other festive opportunities throughout the day. Sat 16 Dec, WWT London Wetland Centre (SW13) From activities will include roasting chestnuts, mulled 12pm to 4pm & Thu 21 Dec – Sun 24 Dec, 12pm 2nd-3rd December get into the festive mood wine and mince pies, wreath making, crafts to 4pm. 8www.thebroadwalkcentre.co.uk at WWT London Wetland Centre’s wonderful stalls and preserves, children’s games and winter weekend. Children will be thrilled to hop tombola. Entry to the garden and a visit to St Hamleys Toy Shop (W1B) Open from 25th aboard for a husky sleigh ride and visit Santa in Nicholas is free. 11am-3pm. November – 24th December, join Father his magical grotto. Head over to their northern 8www.khwgarden.org.uk Christmas and his lovable elves at The Finest pine forest; Father Christmas will be ready to Toy Shop in the World for fun, magic and welcome families in his cosy grotto among the Lauderdale House (N6) ‘Santa in the House’ on theatre at this very special time of year. trees (tickets to see Santa must be pre-booked). Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th December. Santa Meeting Father Christmas at Hamleys is an 8www.wwt.org.uk/london will be flying in for a weekend meeting and extra special experience where children will treating the children of North London! Go along take part in seasonal activities, enjoy delicious Winterville (SW4) This Christmas a magical and meet him and find out about the reindeer snacks, spend time with Father Christmas and town will spring up on Clapham Common, … and, of course, leave with a present! Advance receive an extra special gift bag to take home. offering you a completely different festive booking advisable. 8www.hamleys.com experience. Glide across the outdoor Ice Rink or 8www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk skate around the Roller Disco. Take your kids to Hyde Park (W2) See your little ones’ faces light the Fairground and ride the Big Wheel. Try out Santa to your Door Arrange a magical visit up as they enter the home of Santa. With Plonk Golf or lose yourself in Backyard Cinema’s from Santa on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, plenty of eateries, rides for the little ones and Winter Night Garden. 8www.winterville.co.uk or any other time. He will deliver your presents Santa in his grotto, it is a magical place for the and chat to your children about their favourite children and is open from 17th November to 1st things. He may even sing a few festive songs January. Visit Santa’s Toy Factory fun house before he says goodbye having nibbled a mince where Santa and his elves are making gifts pie, or two. Call the Santa hotline on ready for the big day. (020 8959 1045 / (07969 121 094 or 8www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com *[email protected]

18 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Ice Rinks

Hampton Court Palace

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw. We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiles several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out. Get your skates on! Whether an ‘old pro’ or new to the sport, ice skating is a great family activity for a bit of fresh air and winter fun - and North London families are spoilt for choice of venues! Try one or try them all, but don’t delay as they are only here for a short time.

Thu 26 Oct – Sun 7 Jan – Natural History Museum Ice Rink (SW7) Thu 23 Nov onwards – Winterville (SW4) This Christmas a magical town Set against the backdrop of the Waterhouse building, the Ice Rink at will spring up on Clapham Common, offering you a completely different the Natural History Museum is one of the most magical places to be festive experience. Glide across the outdoor Ice Rink or skate around the this winter. Experience the thrill of skating surrounded by fairy lights Roller Disco. Take your kids to the Fairground and ride the Big Wheel. Try nestled in frost-covered trees, with the smell of mulled wine and toasted out Plonk Golf or lose yourself in Backyard Cinema’s Winter Night Garden. marshmallows in the air. Whether you can dance on ice like Torvill and 8www.winterville.co.uk Dean, or you skate more like Bambi, a visit to the Museum’s Ice Rink is a must this festive season. 8www.nhm.ac.uk Sun 3 Dec – Sun 14 Jan – JW3 Ice Rink (NW3) JW3’s ice rink returns for it’s 5th year! With a skating area of 200m2, skaters can enjoy special events, Sat 4 Nov – Sun 14 Jan – Royal Pavilion Ice Rink (BN1) The most beautiful glimmering lights, vibrant music and an electric atmosphere. For those rink in the South East, Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is open to the who aren’t as steady on the ice, the helpful penguin stabilisers will be public this season from Nov 4 – Jan 14. Stunning, twinkly, romantic, available and for less confident little ones, they can still have fun on the child-friendly... all topped off with beautiful food in the rinkside bar and seated banana toboggans. 8www.jw3.org.uk restaurant. 8www.royalpavilionicerink.co.uk

Sat 4 Nov – Sat 24 Feb – Ice Rink Canary Wharf (E14) In November, the spectacular outdoor ice rink will be back up and running for 16 magical weeks of ice skating in the picturesque surroundings of Canada Square Park. Back by popular demand, the serene skate path leads you on a new route this year underneath the park’s enchanting canopy of trees. If you want to eat, drink and shop all in one go, Canary Wharf is the spot. Stay close to the action at the rink-side bar, or choose from the array of restaurants, bars, and shops surrounding the ice rink. 8www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk

Fri 10 Nov – Sun 24 Dec - Christmas Wonderland at Crews Hill, Enfield (EN2) After you have taken the train to meet Santa and his real reindeer at Christmas Wonderland, London, you’ll get the chance to experience the giant snow globe and get your skates on at the new indoor skating rink! 8www.christmas-wonderland.co.uk

Wed 15 Nov – Sun 14 Jan - Skate at Somerset House with Fortnum & Mason (WC2R) Overlooked by a beautifully decorated 40ft. Christmas tree, families can enjoy the perfect day out in the neoclassical surroundings of Somerset House. Under-eights can enjoy polar bear SKATE skating aids designed especially for Somerset House, with the Polar Cub Club offering guidance from NISA (National Ice Skating Association) for LONDON’S MOST little ones taking their first steps on the ice. For parents looking to improve their skating skills, Skate School will offer single lesson and courses with NISA accredited instructors. Additionally, for skaters and non-skaters DRAMATIC alike, the rink-side Skate Lounge offers a selection of hot drinks, mince pies and excellent views over the ice. 8www.somersethouse.org.uk ICE RINK Fri 17 Nov – Tue 2 Jan - Tower of London Ice Rink (EC3N) Ice skate at the Tower of London - one of the capital’s most iconic historical landmarks! The Tower of London Ice Rink allows you to glide around the famous moat for an unforgettable festive experience. Evening sessions are illuminated by hundreds of snowflakes on the castle walls, while an early morning session, new for this year, is perfect for little skaters. A huge Christmas tree adds to the magical atmosphere and there’s pop-up food and drink too. 8www.toweroflondonicerink.co.uk Skate the Moat at the Fri 17 Nov – Mon 1 Jan – Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland (W2) The ice Tower of London this Christmas. rink is the largest open air ice rink in the UK, set around Hyde Park’s Victorian bandstand under a canopy of sparkling lights. Open from 17 November – 2 January 10am – 10pm, stretch out and practise your skating moves during a crisp Book online now. Limited places available. morning skate. Enjoy the afternoon sun as it glistens on the ice, soak up www.toweroflondonicerink.co.uk the romantic atmosphere at twilight, or skate after dark under the stars. 8www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 19 What’s On Listings for all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.

Hamleys Christmas Toy Parade, Sun 19 Nov

25 Oct onwards - Backyard Cinema coals or opt for an icy trek across broken Sat 11 Nov - Pyjama Party at Stratford presents The Snow Kingdom (SE1) glass. The fundraising event will see the Circus (E15) Take your pyjamas, your Backyard Cinema present the Snow roar-some challengers guided through slippers and your favourite teddy for Kingdom this winter, where ticket holders a ‘Nothing is Impossible’ seminar to help an exciting adventure in the oversized will enter an adventure into the fantasy them break through the fear as they bedroom. After acrobatic bed-bouncing realm at Backyard Cinema’s permanent step out into the heart of the Zoo to face get ready for the magical story of the home of Mercato Metropolitano in what’s on the other side of the wall. Moth and the Moon by night-light Borough. The Snow Kingdom is set in an 8www.zsl.org/firewalk followed by a midnight feast and a cosy enchanted castle, and adventurers will film. A fun-filled interactive experience enter through a secret entrance at the Fri 10 – Sun 19 Nov - EFG London Jazz with live music, dance, storytelling, play foot of the mountain and venture though Festival 2017 (EC2Y) EFG London Jazz and even popcorn. an ice cave across a frozen lake! Once Festival, presented by Barbican Associate 8www.stratford-circus.com inside the grand ballroom, relax on giant Producer Serious, celebrates its 25th year beanbags and enjoy potion themed in 2017. Concert highlights include British Sat 11th Nov - Lord Mayors Show (EC2R) cocktails before settling under a blanket vibraphonist and multi-instrumentalist The 2017 Lord Mayor’s Show features to watch a favourite movie. Orphy Robinson, joined by regular events all day and many other family 8www.backyardcinema.co.uk collaborator and pianist Pat Thomas activities and special exhibitions will performing under their collective alias be laid on in the area. From the Lord Black Top. Also at the Barbican will be Mayor’s arrival by river to the fireworks November two giants of Cuban piano music Chucho finale, the Lord Mayor’s Day is packed Wed 8 Nov - Remembrance: An Evening Valdés and Gonzalo Rubalcaba in a rare with spectacle. The River Pageant sets of Spoken Word (SW3) Go along to the joint performance. 8www.barbican.org.uk off from Westminster at 8.30am, and the National Army Museum at 6pm for an Procession leaves Mansion House at 11am. Sat 11 Nov - Enfield NCT Nearly New Sale The firework display can be seen from evening of poetry and spoken word to (EN2) Clear out clutter before Christmas mark the Remembrance period with the banks of the Thames at 5.15pm, with and grab a bargain! Have a lot to get the launchpad between Blackfriars and performances from some special guests. rid of? Why not have a clear out for There will be performances from local Waterloo. Christmas and make some money - you 8www.thelordmayorsshow.london school children, special guests, and an get to keep 100% of what you earn on open mic session for visitors to share their the day minus a small fee for the tables. Sat 11 - Sun 12 Nov - Celebrate your own responses. If you’re new to poetry The sale takes place at Enfield Grammar City! (EC2Y) Get inspired by the digital and spoken word, drop in to one of the Upper School, with early entry for NCT technologies that shape how we live in writing workshops running throughout the members from 10.30am (a whole half an the city at this weekend extravaganza 8 evening. www.nam.ac.uk hour extra shopping before it gets very of free family activities at the Museum Thu 9 Nov - A Challenge of Ice and Fire busy!) Entry is £2 on the day but free of London. Expect digital workshops (NW1) ZSL London Zoo is encouraging entry to those volunteering on the day. All and demonstrations, craft activities, brave challengers to embrace their inner money raised will help local and national performances, tours and interactive story- wildling and prowl barefoot across fire parents get support from the NCT. telling. 8www.museumoflondon.org.uk and ice to help protect wildlife. The Walk *[email protected] of Fire and Ice will see fearless fundraisers tread barefoot across a path of burning

20 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk What’s On

Sat 18th Nov – Dawnosaurs (SW7) Sun 19 Nov - SoundHoppers Family The Globe Dawnosaurs is a free event that lets Workshop (NW1) Go to the British children on the autism spectrum enjoy Library and get involved in some sound Family Offer the Natural History Museum with their experiments, and explore different families and siblings, free from the qualities of sound through engaging 21 New Globe Walk, hustle and bustle of the general public. games and fun listening exercises. The SE1 9DT Visitors have access to a wide-ranging session will be led by Wajid Yaseen, a programme of activities, including a British artist who develops sound-based Families can visit the Globe Exhibition chance to see, meet and even touch live artworks involving live performances, and learn about Shakespeare's world animals. All activities are supported by acousmatic music and sound sculptures. and his plays through interactive experienced, autism-aware facilitators. This workshop is free and places are activities and demonstrations. £10 A dedicated Sensory Room will also be limited to 40 people per workshop and Family tickets for a limited period. available for those children needing a allocated on a first come, first served Ages 4+ quieter and calmer space. You can apply basis. 11:30am – 1pm and 2-3.30pm. Visit the exhibition desk to buy online three weeks before each event. 8www.bl.uk Spaces are in high demand, and priority tickets every day or call Sun 19th Nov - Family Day: Autumn (020 7902 1599 for more will be given to first-time attendees. 8www.nhm.ac.uk Garden Art (NW3) Create leaf rubbings information. to celebrate the beautiful natural shapes Sat 18 Nov - Sun 28 Jan - Hogwarts in and shades found in the Keats House Wed 15 Nov – Sun 15 Apr - Ferrari the Snow (WD25) 2017 will conclude with garden this autumn. Gather foliage, ferns Exhibition (W8) A major new exhibition the return of the Studio Tour’s popular and beautiful beech leaves – then use at the Design Museum will commemorate festive feature, Hogwarts in the Snow. them to create autumn art to brighten up the 70th anniversary of Ferrari. The The festive makeover will see Christmas those grey November days. Free drop in exhibition offers an insight into the life trees line the Great Hall, the Gryffindor from 1-4pm. (020 7332 3868 of Enzo Ferrari, unique cars and rarely common room dressed for the season and *[email protected] a blanket of filmmaking snow covering seen documents. Key exhibits include Tue 21 Nov – Sun 7 Jan - Christmas Past rare personal memorabilia and archival the majestic Hogwarts castle model. Visitors will even be able to touch samples (E2) Escape from the hustle and bustle of material relating to Enzo Ferrari’s life, Christmas today and step back through early cars, wind tunnel models and hand- of the different types of ‘snow’ used during production, each selected for its time to Christmas Past at the Geffrye sculpted models in both clay and wood. Museum. Authentic festive decorations, 8www.designmuseum.org ability to float like falling snow, crunch under foot or glisten in the light like ice. lighting, music and greenery transform Fri 17 Nov - Kids in Museums Takeover 8www.wbstudiotour.co.uk the museum’s period living rooms, giving Day at the Geffrye (E2) Join pupils from a an evocative glimpse into how Christmas local primary school as they take over the Sat 18 Nov- Sun 19 Nov - Baby to Toddler has been celebrated in English homes Geffrye for the day, running activities for Show (E16) Baby to Toddler Returns to over the past 400 years. Seasonal food families and visitors. 10.30am - 12pm and London! Good news as Baby to Toddler, and drink will be on the menu in the café 1 - 2.30pm. the shopping event for modern parents and the shop will be full of Christmas 8www.geffrye-museum.org.uk of children aged 0 to 4 is returning for decorations and cards, stylish home- a second year! Coming to the London wares, gifts and treats. Sat 18 Nov – Handmade Christmas ExCeL from 18th to 19th November, the 8www.geffrye-museum.org.uk Decoration Workshop (EN2) 1.00 – two-day shopping event will partner 3.30pm, Create a festive centrepiece with Peppermint where visitors will have Sun 26 Nov - Christmas Designer Market using natural materials. Join us for a access to exclusive offers and deals from (E2) Visitors to the V&A Museum of lovely relaxed autumn afternoon and some of the biggest brands and names Childhood will enjoy stress free shopping make your own festive centrepiece. All you know and trust. A natural progression to the melodic sounds of the Becontree materials are provided. The centrepiece from the hugely popular Baby Show with Brass Band and will have the chance to is yours to take home. Tea and mince pie a greater focus on toddlers and preschool buy unique gifts directly from some of included. children (but not forgetting babies too!), London’s most exciting established and guests will also receive a free book worth emerging independent designers and Sat 18 Nov - The Inspiration Machine: up to £4.99 by Campbell Books upon makers. 10am-5pm. A Creative Writing Workshop (E2) This 8 arriving, whilst stocks last. The Kids Zone www.vam.ac.uk/moc playful workshop at the V&A Museum will make a return, to keep the kids of Childhood is an opportunity to learn Sun 26 Nov - Forty Hall Christmas entertained and the MAM Feeding Area how famous (and infamous) writers use Market (EN2) Forty Hall’s annual will have everything needed to feed the creative constraints, and to try some out Christmas Market is back again! Start attending tots, including bottle warmers, for yourself. The workshop will be led by your Christmas shopping early in the microwaves, bibs and more! Tickets are children’s authors Anna Kemp (Dogs don’t festively decorated Hall and Outer on sale now via babytotoddler.seetickets. do ballet, The Worst Princess), and Sylvia Courtyard where local artists and traders com/event/baby-to-toddler-excel/excel- Bishop (Erica’s Elephant, The Bookshop will be displaying their high quality london/1132917. Early bird ticket is £6 until Girl). Suitable for aspiring writers, the and often handmade goods. The fair 1st October. Standard advance is £8 and curious, and the silly. A free event for ages offers shoppers the opportunity to pick on the door is £12. For more information 10+, booking required. up a variety of creative gifts for friends on visiting Baby to Toddler please visit 8www.beinghumanfestival.org. and family! Look out for the Enfield 8www.babytotoddlerevents.co.uk Citadel Band and Songsters and Soup Sat 18 – Sun 19 Nov - Archives weekend: Ukulele bands who will be performing Sunday 19th November - Hamleys Archive detectives (SW3) Discover Christmas classics whilst you browse the Christmas Toy Parade (W1B) Hamleys, the some secrets from the archive at this Finest Toy Shop in the World, are bringing many stalls. 11am - 4pm. family friendly workshop at the National the magic of Christmas to Regent Street, Army Museum. Become a detective and Thu 30 Nov - Keats House by Candlelight which will be transformed in a traffic- uncover some artefacts and stories from (NW3) Join the knowledgeable guides free, all-day extravaganza for the the museum’s archives. Can you put all for an evening tour and a magical biggest toy parade the city has ever seen! the pieces together to solve the puzzle? opportunity to see Keats House dressed Starts at 11am. Arrive early as the street Open all weekend, drop in from 10.30am for the festive season and illuminated will be closed for access when viewing – 12.30pm and 1.30pm – 4pm by candlelight. Finish the evening with reaches capacity. 8www.hamleys.com/ 8www.nam.ac.uk a mince pie in the majestic Chester christmastoyparade Room. First tour: 6.30–8pm Second tour: 8–9.30pm 8www.cityoflondon.gov.uk familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 21 What’s On

Sat 16th Dec - Story Quest! (EC1M) Join the Charterhouse, Salters’ Company and Barbican Children’s Library on a story time adventure. Handle archival material, use quills and invent your own imagined story as you journey between our three awesomely inspiring venues. Go away with your very own book complete with hand drawn illustrations. Suitable for ages 4-10. 8www.thecharterhouse.org Sun 17 Dec - Animal Christmas Crackers: Concert and Art Workshop (WC1N) Join the Waldegrave Ensemble at the Foundling Museum for a magical animal- themed family concert. Enjoy the story of dancing mice, cats and fauns in Berio’s Opus Number Zoo, and discover the fate of the duck escaping from the hungry wolf in Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf. Afterwards you can create animal- themed Christmas crackers in a free A Challenge of Fire & Ice, ZSL Thu 9 Nov family workshop. Inspired by the family concert, design your own cat, mouse or wolf crackers to take home and pull. December Sat 9 Dec - Family Workshop: Christmas Suitable for age 5+. Sparkle (E2) Create some Christmas 8www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Sat 2 Dec - Harry Potter Family Day magic for your home in this decoration- (NW1) Explore the magic of the British making activity at the Geffrye Museum Sun 17th Dec - Family Day: Christmas Library at this fun family day. Visit from 10:30am - 4:30pm. Free, drop-in, Printmaking (NW3) Join artist Orly the Harry Potter: A History of Magic places on a first-come, first-served basis. Orbach at Keats House for a hands-on exhibition, get creative in hands-on 8www.geffrye-museum.org.uk printmaking workshop. Create your own workshops and delve into the magical Christmas cards and wrapping paper for world of storytelling. Before or after a visit Sun 10 Dec - Pine Cone Creatures (N3) the festive season. You’ll use lino cuts and to the exhibition, take part in a number Get creative and make your very own plasticine to personalise your Christmas of creative activities with your family - forest creature at Stephens House and stationery, adding a special handmade create your own puppets, make and gaze Garden. Decorate a pine cone harvested touch to your gifts this year. Free drop in through your own star telescopes, hear from the Estate with fun materials. Held from 1-4pm. (020 7332 3868 some amazing stories and meet some in the Visitor Centre, £1 per child per cone *[email protected] - no booking necessary. magical creatures. Booking is essential. Mon 18 - Fri 22 Dec - Colouring in 2018: 8 8www.stephenshouseandgardens.com See details on website. www.bl.uk Bank of England (EC2R) It’s time to get Sat 2 Dec - Winter Arts Fair (E1) A free Sun 10th Dec - Family Barn Dance (NW1) creative this festive season. Colour your event at the Half Moon Theatre featuring Take the entire family to Cecil Sharp way into 2018 by decorating a Museum- local artists, children’s book illustrators, House and take part in lively dances inspired calendar and bring some of your Linda Marlowe (EastEnders’ Sylvie from the British Isles in a supportive and favourite Museum objects to life! The Carter), a range of handmade crafts and fun environment! Live music inspires the calendar will include museum events for a series of events in the theatre with some dancing and expert callers guide the 2018, the perfect way to plan ahead! of the Pictures at Play artists. The Winter moves with simple instructions. Groups There’s a free chocolate coin for every Arts Fair is free to attend. should include a minimum of one adult child. Admission and all activities are free. 8www.halfmoon.org.uk for every four children. Children under 8www.bankofengland.co.uk 5 should be partnered by an adult and Sun 3rd Dec – Lucky Button Day may need guiding or carrying through the Tue 19 Dec - Winter Quest & Craft (NW3) Workshops and Book Reading with dances. No unaccompanied children or A creative workshop to bring Kenwood’s Michael Morpurgo (WC1N) Join children’s adults! 8www.cecilsharphouse.org world famous paintings to life. Families author Michael Morpurgo at the will get to work together to try out Foundling Museum for a reading from Thu 14 Dec -Festive After Hours (E2) different art and crafts whilst exploring his new book inspired by the Foundling Celebrate the season at this special the house and finding out more about Hospital, and enjoy music featured in Christmas extravaganza at the Geffrye its collections. Sessions will take place in the story. As part of Lucky Button Day, Museum which has something for the house. Just turn up between12pm- you can also drop in to the art workshops everyone! Featuring the ever-popular 3.30pm to take part. inspired by Michael Morpurgo’s new book. Crafty Fox Christmas market, craft 8www.english-heritage.org.uk In these free creative workshops, make activities for children and adults, seasonal talks and greenery demonstrations, music, Wed 20 Dec - Lantern Making & your own musical instrument, inspired Christmas Carol Singalong (N6) Spend by Michael Morpurgo’s new book Lucky street food and a bar. 4 - 9pm, free entry. 8www.geffrye-museum.org.uk an afternoon making Christmas lanterns Button. Suitable for age 5+. to get your into the swing of Christmas (020 7841 3600 Fri 15th Dec - Perfect Pomanders (EC1M) at Lauderdale House. Then take your *[email protected] Go along to this Christmas workshop at lantern along to the Lower Gallery for a Sun 3, Sun 10 & Sun 17 Dec - Under The Charterhouse and make a perfectly free Christmas Carol Singalong. All ages the Christmas Tree (W8) Visitors to perfumed pomander. Popular during welcome,Children must be accompanied Kensington Palace will be able to the Middle Ages, the belief went that by a parent/carer. experience the excitement of Queen the pleasant scent of a pomander could *[email protected] Victoria’s Christmas with ‘Under the repel diseases in the air. Now, their sweet 8www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk Christmas Tree’. This event will see visitors citrus scent ushers in the festive season. being treated to Victoria’s memories of Take along as many oranges as you like Christmas past, before creating their own & they’ll supply the rest! Suitable for ages 8 beautiful Christmas decoration to take 6-11. www.thecharterhouse.org home. 8www.hrp.org.uk

22 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk What’s On

Wed 20 - Thu 21 Dec - Handmade Wed 27 – Sun 31 Dec - Medieval January holidays at Museum of London Christmas Festivities (EC3N) Revel in Docklands (E14) Many wartime holiday the festivities at the Tower of London Sat 6 – Sun 7 Jan - Farewell to Christmas decorations were handmade in the ‘make with King Richard III, Queen Anne Neville, and Closing Party (E2) Help say goodbye do and mend’ spirit of the times. Create and the knights and ladies of medieval with a bang to both Christmas and the your own at the Museum of London England, with music, dance and games Geffrye Museum which will be closing Docklands. adding to the family entertainment. on Sun 7 Jan for almost two years for a 8www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum- 8www.hrp.org.uk transformational development project. london-docklands Enjoy street food, winter cocktails, live Fri 29 – Sat 30 Dec - Peter Pan: an Arena music and bargains in the shop’s big sale. Fri 22 - Sat 23 Dec - Freezing Frost Fairs Spectacular (HA9) For the first time 8www.geffrye-museum.org.uk (E14) Imagine a winter so cold the Thames ever, The World’s Biggest Pantomime freezes and an elephant can cross the ice! Ltd will play in London, presenting Peter Sun 7 Jan – Sun 11 Feb – Cirque Du It happened over two hundred years ago Pan, a stunning new arena spectacular, Soleil: OVO (SW7) Cirque du Soleil returns during London’s last frost fair. Create a at The SSE Arena, Wembley. Starring to London’s Royal Albert Hall with a collaborative frost fair scene. Bradley Walsh as Mr Smee, Martin Kemp celebration of nature and Co-existence. 8www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum- as Captain Hook, and Matt Knight as The cast of OVO is comprised of 50 london-docklands Peter Pan, J.M. Barrie’s original story performing artists from 17 countries and characters will be brought to life by specializing in many acrobatic acts. Fri 22 Dec – Mon 1 Jan – Elizabethan a cast of over 100 performers, including OVO, meaning “egg” in Portuguese, is a Christmas (HP8) Visitors to Hampton a thrilling team of BMX riders, stuntmen headlong rush into a colorful ecosystem Court Palace will be treated to an and trapeze artists, along with a 7m-long teeming with life, where insects work, ‘Elizabethan Christmas’, with Tudor-style animatronic crocodile! eat, crawl, flutter, play, fight and look courtyard entertainment, live period 8www.ssearena.co.uk for love in a non-stop riot of energy and music and dance conjuring up the movement. (020 7589 8212 Christmas of 1592 with Elizabeth I and Sat 30 Dec & Mon 1 Jan - Hanukah 8www.cirquedusoleil.com/ovo her court. The Tudor Queen herself will Celebrations at the Museum of London 8www.royalalberthall.com even be in residence for the celebrations! (EC2Y) Discover the origins of the story 8www.hrp.org.uk that inspired Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, and design your own Sun 26 Dec - WI Frost Fair (N3) The celebration cards to share with friends annual seasonal fair at Stephens House, and family. Then explore the Hebrew with jewellery, crafts, cards, and - of language and learn how to write your course - the popular WI cake and craft name! 8www.museumoflondon.org.uk stall, selling homemade items, preserves and other beautiful items. 11:30am - 4:30pm. 8www.wifinchley.blogspot.co.uk

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Travel clinic advert Families North London Magazine 180x130.indd 1 23/08/2017 15:30 familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 23