ISSUE 111 November-December 2016 www.familiesonline.co.uk

· Tutoring: What you NEED to know · Why your child should learn to play a musical instrument · Christmas presents for the kids · Where's Santa · What's on during the Christmas holidays

Families West · PO Box 32231 · W5 1JR · Tel: 020 8930 4707 · Email: [email protected] Lemon Tree and St Matthew's Montessori schools based in Ealing Broadway offering both term time and full day care 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: 07564 834 687 (Term Time) Website: www.lemontreemontessori.com

2 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR November-December 2016 W5 Creative Lab NEWS & VIEWS These new workshops for budding fashionistas encourage people to Contents explore their imagination & and challenge their News Views Page 3 creative thinking in order Education/Tutoring Page 5 to change their perception The Twelve Toys on ‘fashion .’ The classes will teach children and of Christmas Page 8 adults how to sew by Where to find Santa Page 10 hand and use a machine using a variety of Learning a Musical techniques in order to supplement their wardrobe, Instrument Page 12 including using a pattern. Students will also learn how to work with mixed media, decoration and embellishment What’s On in West London Page 13 as well as how to recycle and upcycle clothing and Classified Section/ accessories and gifts. W5 Creative Lab also organises Clubs & Classes Page 20 parties for children and adults and run workshops for families and holiday clubs. Find out more by contacting 07720 863 32 7. Email: [email protected] Baby to Toddler event For the second year running, This autumn comes a new event entitled Baby to Kensington Mums are Toddler , a two day shopping event for modernparents organising a Family Christmas that’s taking place at ExCeL London on the weekend of Fair. Enjoy festive family 19th to 20th November 2016.Created for expectant shopping and children’s entertainment all under one roof with lots of parents and parents of children aged 0-4, the event will raffle prizes to be won. The event is supporting the Best Beginnings Charity - a national charity dedicated to making a big difference to the give them access to exclusive offers and deals from all the health and well-being of babies and families. The fair is taking place on big brands and names you know and trust, as well as not- the 27th of November at the Kensington Close Hotel, Wrights Lane, W8 on-the-high-street boutique brands, all under one roof. 5SP. It is a 2 minute walk from Kensington High Street Tube Station The one-stop-shop for everything parents need for their from 10am-5pm. Entry is free with 100 VIP goody bags to give away! little ones, it’s a fantastic shopping event to make their It promises to be a fabulous event that is great fun for all the family. lives easier and comes just in time for Christmas shop - For information please go to: www.kensingtonmums.co.uk ping. The Early Bird ticket price is £6 while on-the-door tickets cost £12. www.BabyToToddlerEvents.co.uk Winter fun for the kids Winter is coming, and it's getting more and more difficult to organise a jam-packed schedule of fun for the kids. Well, Oxygen Freejumping is here to help! London’s favourite trampoline park has a high-flying offer to keep you and the kids jumping for joy as the days get darker and the weather gets chilly. You can take advantage of half-price tickets when you use promo code WINTER20 and jump for just £10! You'll have to hurry though, it's only available for the first 100 bookings! To book, visit: www.oxygenfree - jumping.co.uk or call the hotline on: 0203 846 1386. Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Families West Magazine @FamiliesWest

November-December 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 3 A Pines and Needles NEWS & VIEWS Christmas tree for Maths tips from Explore your home With their National Young Mathematicians’ Award returning soon, Explore want The company’s array of products and services more children than ever to be confident and excited about maths. is completely designed to let you sit back and They have a couple of top tips for inspiring maths at home: celebrate Christmas in the most relaxing way • Bring maths to life with fun and engaging ways to learn new skills. possible. Every type of tree is available in every Baking, measuring objects and budgeting at the shops are great ways for size imaginable - from mini potted trees up to your child to be hands on with maths. giant Nordmann firs or a Traditional Spruce. • Ask questions during homework time, such as: They even stock artificial trees if you prefer! Why? How do you know? Are you sure? There are dedicated delivery time-slots, easy The more you can challenge your child to convince you of their reasoning, the installation, full decoration services and even a more you will build skills such as problem solving from an early age. Be sure removal and recycling option. Use the Click & to praise them for their efforts afterwards, too! For more advice, support, news Collect Option online and collect your tree at and views on maths, take a look at their blog: your local store or pick your own in store and https://www.explorelearning.co.uk/blog/category/maths have it delivered home locally. It couldn’t be easier. Available online and at more than 25 stores across the South East, Pines and Needles Art classes for offers the complete festive products and children experience. For more information check out Art classes at Start Studios are an www.pinesandneedles.com excellent way for your children to or call 020 3384 9420. explore and develop their confidence in the exciting world of drawing. During the term, they teach your children the basic principles of drawing, the under - standing of form, shape, composition and space. They will expand their drawing skills, to explore different drawing mediums like pencil, charcoal, and pastel. “Their drawing skills will flourish with practice. Most importantly, your child will discover that drawing is fun and there is no right or wrong. Only unique artwork!” The lessons are run by a couple of mums from Ealing; Fernanda James and Carla Tebbutt, who have combined degrees in animation, graphic design, and developmental psychology. Start Studios have classes available for children ages 6 to 8 and 9 to 11 and they also offer private classes and school workshops. To find out more Arabic for Women visit: www.startstudios.co.uk and Children Families welcome – A new range of Christmas cards is now available Goal Oriented Charity Christmas cards are now hugely popular but it can be disappointing • Dynamic • Innovative when you turn over your box of cards to find that just a tiny fraction of the cost • E ective • Native Female is going to charity. At Brain Tumor Research, 50% of the £4 pack proceeds fund Teacher (& mother of 3!) brain tumour research. If you could you sell Christmas cards on their behalf at your school, club, workplace, local Christmas fair or simply from your own Call Reem on home, they would love to hear from you. See the full range of designs at: www.braintumourresearch.org and place your order by calling: 07956 845 053 01908 867 200 . Or email: [email protected]

4 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR November-December 2016 TUTORING: What you NEED to know By Liat Hughes Joshi Here’s how to find the best tutor for your child… Plan ahead and your child to some - then be wary. whether the tutor and where possible one with a similar style. Don’t be shy about your child gel and Group tutoring reduces checking how they work whether their teaching The best tutors may well costs but probably won’t Ask questions even if style is going to work for have waiting lists, so if be as tailored you’ve had a recommen - you both. you know your child will These can work out dation from other parents Good luck! need support for exams cheaper per hour but - what suits their child Get more information or perhaps before your child won’t get the may not suit yours. about tutoring from moving to secondary same one-on-one Find out the local going Families Online: school, begin your search attention, and it’s vital to rate. www.familiesonline.co.uk/ well in advance. check that those in the Expect to pay anything tutoring Ask around group need to work on between £20 and £65 an Word-of-mouth is often the same things at hour, depending on Liat Hughes Joshi is a the most effective way roughly the same level. where you live and how parenting journalist and to find a good tutor. Anyone can become a in demand a particular the author of four books Ask parents you know tutor so do your home - tutor is. However, more including New Old- and trust for god work. expensive doesn’t fashioned Parenting and recommendations. One-on-one tutors should necessarily mean better. How to Unplug Your Child Consider agencies be Disclosure and Barring Arrange a trial lesson (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Reputable agencies will Service (DBS) checked Many tutors will offer your Children: The Primary Years vet tutors’ credentials (formerly known as CRB child a trial lesson - this (Pearson). and should match you checking) – if they aren’t, lets you get a feel for

November-December 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 5 6 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR November-December 2016 November-December 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 7 THE TWELVE TOYS OF

When it comes to direction and there Cosmo teepee · £149 soft, cuddly toys. choosing gifts for are so many loveable MyWeeTeePee Choose from Doodle the kids at characters to choose A bit pricey but this will the Crocodile, Dash the from, it’s hard to pick be the ideal location Christmas, we Leopard or Giggles the a favourite. Ours is the for games, dreams all want to make Giraffe. They have pig. Or maybe the bee. and dramas for years sure we give them been loving made from Or the ladybird... to come. Use it in the something they will velour and corduroy But if you buy the house or in the garden, absolutely love. and this gives them lots mouse this Christmas, take it to the park for Here’s what’s on of textures for little the company will some shade and put it hands to feel. the best seller lists donate money to help in the bedroom for a this Christmas… the endangered quiet story corner, this FOR BABIES dormouse. teepee is made from AND TODDLERS strong wooden poles Personalised music and thick, box · £17 quality Not On The High canvas. Street This is a gift that your FOR 5-8 YEARS little one can use and SmartMax enjoy for years to VTech light up night From £8.99 · Amazon come. Inside the light soft toy · £10.99 SmartMax is an wooden box is a John Lewis amazing range of musical mechanism This sweet little magnetic construction that plays You Are My character is suitable toys that kids will love. Sunshine and can be for a boy or a girl from Featuring magnets that operated by turning birth and as well as can hold 60 times their BeatBo · £29.99 the handle. Personalise being a little friend to own weight, your little Tesco it with your little one’s play with, it’s a night one can have endless This large and friendly name and a message light too. It has soft fun constructing toy will get your little on the top. glowing lights that help different toys from this one moving and your baby drift off to set. It allows your child grooving. Children can sleep, plus there is a to explore their press his tummy or the white noise setting and creativity whilst learning buttons on his feet to nature sounds about magnetism and activate tunes and too. as the sets are made songs. He will help kids from safe and high get to learn their quality materials, they colours, numbers and will last for years too. letter and they can even sing along.

Wheelybug ride-on toy · £69.95 Hippychick Your toddler will love zooming around on a Frugi soft toy · £25 Wheelybug. Sturdy and Frugi comfortable, with a big Organic kids’ clothing handle to grasp, these brand Frugi has extend - can zip around in any ed its range to include

8 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR November-December 2016 Orange monster you, pick up his front hand puppet · £19.99 legs and he dances. Puppets By Post You can also use an A favourite of our child - app on your smart all things Disney when hoods; hand puppets phone or tablet. out and about in are making a massive Mickey Mouse Boot autumn leaves and comeback and this Toppers · £7.95 winter snow. Pop these bright orange monster Disney Store knitted toppers on a will be a great friend Even too kool for skool pair of boots and the for your child to play teenagers still love their friendly face with pom with. He can be a soft toys, and these pom ears friendly monster or a boot toppers are a will make naughty monster, fun way for them to everyone depending on what Minions Pie Face embrace their love for smile. your child decides and £19.99 Toys Are Us it can help your child The toy that everyone learn the art of drama wanted last year is Once upon a Christmas ... and role play. back – and it makes Why books make perfect you into a Minion! Pop presents for children By Claire Bottomley some whipped cream They don’t require batteries, they don’t need to be or a wet sponge on the assembled, and they don’t mean you have to build a loft arm (cold mashed extension to accommodate them. They don’t even cause potato’s good too), you excruciating pain when you step on them in the middle then a player puts their of the night. Books: what’s not to like? chin on the chin rest. They may not deliver the biggest instant wow factor when Spin the dial to see ripped from gaudy wrapping, but books are what children how many clicks you will return to, and lose themselves in, time after time. must turn the handles Watch how a person’s face lights up when they tell you about their favourite children’s book, and then decide if by – then watch out! books are the most magical present in the world! Unlucky players get a face And older children don’t have to be keen independent full of readers to appreciate the right book as a gift. If it’s well- goo! chosen with them in mind, about something that enthuses them or captures their imagination, you’re on to a winner.

· Don’t worry about duplicating. Chances are, they may already have a popular, well-known book, but it is actually quite useful to have more than one copy. One for upstairs by their bed and another for downstairs in the daytime, or FOR 9-12 YEARS one to keep at a grandparent’s home. Chip the robot dog £199.99 Amazon · Do write in them. It’s a lovely, personal touch to write in the inside sleeve or cover of a book. “Happy Christmas He’s not cheap but 2016, with love from Aunty Emma,” is something they will Chip is the toy they’re Who Tooted · £19.99 look back on with fondness in years to come. all talking about this Toys R Us Christmas. He’s smart · Do buy them books about something they’re interested This is a hilarious board in, especially as they get older. Books about sports, dance, and does his own thing, game for all the family Minecraft or pets are great for junior enthusiasts. or your child can train to play together. With Non-fiction books often go down really well. him using voice com - integral sounds and mands and a remote · Don’t worry if they don’t seem to like it. It might be whoopee cushions control, giving him a that they will come back to it and discover it on another that – um – toot for day... or maybe it’s just not for them. Getting the unique personality - you, everyone has to opportunity to try a wide range of reading material is the and he’s just like a real guess who tooted! main thing, and books can easily be passed on to another dog. Roll his ball and friend or relative who might like it more. he’ll bring it back to

November-December 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 9 WHERE TO FIND in West London!

HYDE PARK also where Father Christmas Golden Ticket for something HAMLEYS WINTER WONDERLAND and his elves will be welcoming very special in the Elves’ Teddy- W1B 5BT W2 2UH little ones. Combine this with Tastic Workshop. Plus, take part www.hamleys.com www.hydepark visiting the new winter trail, a in Christmas-themed Arts and 20 Nov Hamleys Christmas winterwonderland.com one mile sparkling path Crafts and meet the crazy elves Toy Parade on Regent 18 Nov-2 Jan Santa Land winding its way through the at Elf School! Combined with Street London’s biggest toy is a magical experience with world-famous botanic gardens plenty of Christmas Lambs to parade and everyone will be rides, eateries and Santa him - in a magical after-dark meet, there’s stacks of festive there inc. Barbie and her pink self! Santa opens his grotto experience, with dancing illumi - fun for the whole family! Cadillac, Bing and Flop, every day from 10am to 6pm. nated fountains and glowing Fireman Sam and his truck, Entry is free and Santa will waterside reflections, a Choir of WWT LONDON WETLANDS Peppa Pig, and hundreds of have a gift for children who’ve Holly Bushes, Tunnel of Lights CENTRE other characters from books been good! Visit Santa’s Toy and scented Fire Garden. Trail SW13 9WT and TV. And of course a very Factory fun house where Santa open from 5-10pm with entry www.wwt.org.uk/london special appearance from Father and his elves are making gifts by timed ticket, rides operate 3, 4 Dec Handsome huskies Christmas and the Hamleys ready for the big day, Winter from 5-9.30pm, £2 per ride. will be ready and waiting to Elves. Also marching bands, Wonderland is open 10am- take children for a spin. The festive floating blimps, street 10pm daily, admission free. ODDS FARM PARK dogs are also available for theatre, dancers and toy HP10 0LX photo opportunities but if it's vehicles. Starts at 10.30am GARDENS www.oddsfarm.co.uk not festive enough until you've 26 Nov-24 Dec How about TW9 3AB 26 Nov-24 Dec The Magic seen the man himself, then having breakfast, brunch, www.kew.org/christmas of Christmas Entering a cosy head to the northern pine forest lunch or high tea with Father 25 Nov - 2 Jan The playful Grotto via a sparkling to meet Santa in his cosy Christmas. Enjoy a scrumptious atmosphere of the White Peaks Woodland Walkway, children grotto. Children can also take a feast, meet the magical elves, welcomes you with a Victorian will meet the Elves and of donkey ride; it will make a play games, write a Christmas carousel, helter-skelter and course Father Christmas himself, great photograph with the wish list and hear all about other family rides and that is before exchanging a magical donkeys dressed up in their Santa's enchanting life in Christmas finery. Santa tickets Lapland. Then when it's time £6 per child including a goody for Father Christmas to leave, bag, husky and donkey sleigh his special guests will receive a rides are free with admission. small gift to take home. Suitable for children aged 2-9, ROYAL ALBERT HALL book first. SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com/ HARRODS tickets/tours-and-exhibitions/ SW1X 7XL a-victorian-christmas www.harrods.com/grotto 6-24 Dec FATHER 4 Nov-24 Dec Whether CHRISTMAS AT THE HALL marking a child's first Christmas A magical adventure through or honouring a family tradition, the Royal Albert Hall, led by a visit to The Harrods Christmas a captivating Victorian door - Grotto is the perfect way to keeper who knows all of the start the festive season. Hall’s secrets. Together you will solve puzzles and follow clues DUKE OF YORK SQUARE to find the key to Father SW3 4LY Christmas’s grotto, where a www.dukeofyorksquare.com SANTA IN DUKE OF YORK SQUARE wonderful visit awaits! 13 Nov -23 Dec Santa will For age 2+ be making a welcome return to

10 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR November-December 2016 help spread joy throughout the www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ holiday season. Little ones will osterley-park/things-to-see-and- be able to meet Santa, share do/events their Christmas wish list and 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18 Dec Classes forF Brooyms a nBda Gbiyrls taog eBda 2 l1l/e2rtion a16 years old have their photo taken as a Reserve your visit to Father Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances treasured keepsake. Bookings Christmas as he flies in this are complimentary. Families winter as part of Osterley's can choose to donate to the Christmas Offer. If you have Chelsea Community Hospital been good, there may be a gift School, the Square’s chosen waiting for you. Come early charity, if they so wish. and join in the pudding stirring at the grotto. Or why not stay Classes held in: RAINFOREST CAFÉ later and see the lights or visit Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, W1D 7EU the house for the Christmas by Oxford Street, Shepherds www.therainforestcafe.co.uk Design installation? Bush and South Kensington Weekends from 12 Nov and daily from 28 Nov SYON PARK GARDEN Who knew Father Christmas CENTRE hung out in the rainforest - but TW8 8JG there he is in his snowy grotto. www.thegardencentregroup.co. All good little boys and girls uk/breakfast-and-tea-with- are welcome to visit and this father-christmas enchanting experience includes 12-24 Dec Have breakfast or a personalised visit to see Santa tea with Father Christmas. as well as a Children's 2 course Enjoy a delicious, freshly pre - meal and drink. pared breakfast or tea and watch the excitement build FULHAM PALACE until everyone joins in to help SW6 6EA the elves welcome Father www.fulhampalace.org Christmas. Meet Father 3, 4, 11 Dec Father Christmas and choose your Christmas is back! Find own present, enjoy delicious him in the Tudor Great Hall by a food and decorate a Christmas roaring fire ready to hear all of cookie. £9.99 per child. your Christmas wishes. With the Christmas tree, elves’ gift BATTERSEA PARK ZOO wrapping station, Father SW11 4NJ Christmas's desk and the www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk naughty and nice list all on 3, 4, 10, 11, 16-24 Dec display, this is a very special Come and see Santa in his and atmospheric experience. grotto, £6 to see Santa, plus £11 per child, booking is entrance fee. Includes a small essential. gift and a picture, plus a drink and Christmas treat. Bookable OSTERLEY PARK AND HOUSE in advance by ringing the zoo TW7 4RB or just turn up. Santa to your door A visit from Santa on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or any other time. He will deliver your presents and chat to your children about their favourite things. He may even sing a few festive songs before he says goodbye having nibbled a mince pie, or two! Call the Santa hotline on: 0208 959 1045 or email: [email protected]

November-December 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 11 The benefits of learning a musical instrument By Sally J Hall Learning an instrument can have benefits for your child that you may not have considered. Discover the benefits that can be gained from your little musician learning to play their favourite instrument...

It makes them than writing it down. create neurological Once a child has more intelligent, An improvement pathways in the brain. mastered making sounds with better in social skills In fact, studies have from their instrument, memories Playing music is a great suggested that playing they often begin to The mental and way to make friends. an instrument may experiment. Although physical processes Not only are children enhance motor skills for they may never be an 2 happening inside your who play instruments the player’s whole life . improvisational genius, child’s brain when they encouraged to join A confidence this leads to creativity, learn to play an groups and orchestras boost which in turn creates a instrument seem help at school but you’ll often There’s no doubt that a sense of achievement. them with problem find them getting child who feels they can Find out more about solving. It’s also believed together outside of manage a task - such as music classes and the these children tend to school hours too. Music performing a simple benefits from Families do better in other draws children together tune - is filled with Online: subjects including: from different back - confidence. As their skill www.familiesonline maths, science and grounds and creates a improves and practice .co.uk/music learning a foreign common bond. pays off, your child will language in particular. They have see a huge confidence References 1 A 1997 study found that improved motor boost, which will help 1. Music training causes children who took part skills them to become a more long-term enhancement piano lessons performed Creating notes from an self-assured as they of preschool children's better in spatial- instrument, whether it’s grow. spatial-temporal reason - temporal tests when brass, woodwind, per - Persistence is ing. Authors Rauscher FH, compared to peers cussion or strings, helps taught Shaw GL, Leving LJ, taking computer lessons. a child fine-tune motor Learning an instrument Wright EL, Dennis WR, Newcomb RL. Music also helps with skills. Minute movements is a slow, sometimes 2. Music making as a memory; singing a list is of the hands and fingers arduous task and the tool for promoting brain often more successful are believed to help traits that children must plasticity across the life acquire are patience span. Authors Wan CY, and the ability to Schlaug G. practice. These skills are

transferable to many Sally J. Hall is a writer and other tasks they will editor who has written for come up against later in all the main parenting life. titles as well as The Independent and The They become Mail. She is author of Eco creative and have Baby and contributing a sense of author to Watch My Baby achievement Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

12 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR November-December 2016 WHAT’S ON

day of Christmas shopping. Activities from 27 Nov KENSINGTON MUMS DIARY DATES 12 noon followed by a star-studded CHRISTMAS FAMILY FAIR WORKSHOPS Christmas show. Shopping, festive fun, lots of raffle prizes, 12, 13 Nov INDEPENDENT and children’s entertainment. This event is FOR CHILDREN SCHOOLS SHOW Meet key admis - 19 Nov NCT EALING NEARLY supporting Best Beginnings Charity- a 15-23 Dec SUPER CAMPS sions teams, speak with heads, enquire NEW SALE 12:30 -- 2:30pm at national charity dedicated to making a big The ultimate in fun and games to get in about entry requirements at all stages, Kingsdown Methodist Church, difference to the health and well-being of the festive spirit! Whilst you plan your explore scholarships and bursaries for 200 Kingsdown Avenue, London, W13 9PR. babies and families. Free entry. perfect Christmas, jingle all the way to UK independent schools. Takes place in Email: [email protected] 10am-5pm at Kensington Close Hotel, Super Camps and let them look after the Battersea. www.schoolsshow.co.uk Wrights Lane, W8 5SP. children. The fun will be non-stop with www.kensingtonmums.co.uk 26 Nov MUM 2 MUM some great seasonal activities on the 12 Nov LORD MAYOR’S SHOW NEARLY NEW SALE Taking place AND FIREWORKS Spectacular tradi - Multi-Activity course to create that at Southfield Primary School, Southfield 27 Nov LIGHT UP THE LANE, tional parade to welcome the new Lord Christmas buzz. Call 01235467300. Road, Chiswick W5 1BD. 1.30-3.30pm. PITSHANGER Mayor with a firework display in the Email: [email protected] http://www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/north A celebration of shopping, socialising, evening (5.15pm). Procession of music, www.supercamps.co.uk dance, acrobatics, colourful costumes and -and-west-london-nearly-new-sales.html amusements, food, song and dance for horses from Bank to Aldwych from 11am- the local community. Most of the shops in 16, 22 Dec, 3 Jan FUN WITH 2.30am. 26 Nov EALING 135 the Lane stay open, selling mince pies, FIMO CLAY WORKSHOP https://lordmayorsshow.london CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR mulled wine, samosas, candy floss and Fun and creative session, fully supervised, Taking place at Kingsdown Methodist anything else that will raise money for for age 6+. Workshops take place in 17 Nov REGENT STREET Church, Northfields Avenue, W13. £1 charitable causes. Pitshanger Lane is teacher’s home in West London, morning closed to traffic and there are stalls and CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Regent Street entry (£2 per family). 1-4pm. Gifts, crafts, refreshments are provided. 10.15am- gets its usual Christmas makeover with homemade refreshments, raffle and free entertainment up and down the Lane. 4.15pm. garlands of lights down the length of the taster sessions from local children’s clubs www.pitshanger.org.uk/events/light-up- Call Clare McKnight on 020 8992 3767. road. The switch-on event promises and classes. the-lane Email: [email protected] celebrity appearances, family activities and Email: [email protected] WHAT’S ON LISTINGS www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk a fireworks display. It will be a traffic-free www.ealing135.org.uk CONTINUE ON PAGE 14

November-December 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 13 WHAT’S ON CONTINUED

16, 22 Dec, 3 Jan FUN WITH foundation in 1694 to its role today as the DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at pieces from Winnie the Pooh, The Wind in 19-21 Dec UK's central bank. Examine intricately weekends and school holidays on a vari - the Willows and works by Edward Lear in PERFORM DRAMA WORK - designed banknotes, feel the weight of a ety of themes. Free, 11am-4pm, for ages this family-friendly concert. 1pm for all SHOP: HANSEL AND GRETEL genuine gold bar and see the pikes and 7+ (unless stated). See What’s on widget ages. £5, free for children under 10. muskets that were once used to defend An unforgettable three full day festive online for details. 11 Dec CHRISTMAS STORY the Bank. Children's activity sheets provide treat for 4-7 year olds. Children will work 26 Nov LITTLE FEET: ANIMAL LANTERNS Create a magical Christmas fun for younger visitors. to project their voices, learn energetic HOMES Find out where in the world lantern, inspired by the stories in 12 Nov LORD MAYOR’S SHOW Step dance routines and sing catchy songs, and animals call home and programme a robot Christmas with Pooh Bear and Friends. into the world of Ratty, Mole, Badger and put on a performance for family and to help find them in the galleries. 11am- Illustrate your lantern with pictures from Toad. Professional face painters will trans - friends at the end. Venues include 4pm for under-fives. Free, drop-in. Winnie the Pooh or Wind in the Willows. form young visitors into one of the well- Kensington URC, W8 6BL and Baden 15 Dec LITTLE FEET: FESTIVE FUN For age 3+ at 2.15pm. Free. known characters from ‘The Wind in the Powell House, SW7. Craft activity with lights, play, sounds and 17 Nov, 8 Dec BACH TO BABY Willows’ by Kenneth Grahame, a former plenty of fun for under-fives. 10.30am-12 An innovative classical babies’ concert 20 Dec MUSIC HOUSE FOR Secretary of the Bank of England. noon. Free, drop-in. created by mum and pianist, Miaomiao CHILDREN INSTRUMENTAL 11am-5pm. FOUNDLING MUSEUM Yu, inspired by Handel. 10.30-11.30am. EXTRAVAGANZA Try a magical 22, 23, 28–30 Dec CRAFTY Adults £10, children free. WC1N 1AZ range of instruments including Trumpet, CHRISTMAS AND CREATIVE NEW www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM Violin, Piano and Keyboards. YEAR Get creative this Christmas with a 26 Nov CLAY SOUP BOWLS A clay- SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk selection of Museum inspired crafts to based workshop inspired by the exhibition EXHIBITIONS: design and decorate including gold bar Feeding the 400. Create a soup bowl for HOLOCAUST Film, photographs and a moneyboxes, door hangers and masks. the Foundling Hospital children, then large number of rare artefacts document Plus, a chocolate coin for every child. MUSEUMS AND design an emblem for your bowl, inspired the history of the Nazi persecution of the 10am - 4:30pm. by Hogarth’s original Foundling Hospital Jews and other groups before and during GALLERIES BRITISH MUSEUM logo. For age 5+ at 10.30am, 1 and the Second World War. For ages 14+ WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org 3pm. Free. A FAMILY IN WARTIME Explores the BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM until 31 Jan CELTS-ART AND 11 Dec CHRISTMAS WITH POOH lives of William and Alice Allpress and EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk IDENTITY A vast collection of objects BEAR AND FRIENDS Enjoy songs and their ten children and what life in London The Bank of England Museum tells the that provide clues to and raise questions nonsense poems - and join in too! David was like during the war. story of the Bank of England from its about Celtic identity. Owen Norris and Amanda Pitt perform SECRET WAR The clandestine world of

14 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR November-December 2016 espionage, covert operations and the work 4 Dec CHARGING KNIGHTS AND use in their daily work. Drop-in. VICTORIA AND ALBERT of Britain’s Special Forces. REARING HORSES Discover the drama 11am-5pm. MUSEUM FIRST WORLD WAR Discover the story in Uccello’s Battle of San Romano and 19 Nov, 3, 23 Dec DINO SNORES SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk k of the war - Over 1,300 objects including create brave knights and galloping horses. Ever wondered what goes on at the Every Sat POP UP PERFORMANCES weapons, uniforms, diaries, letters and STUDIO SUNDAYS are hands-on work - Natural History Museum at night? 7 - 11 Storytelling, interactive plays and dance. souvenirs, will be on display as well as a shops that start in the Gallery, followed by years. 7pm till morning, torchlit trails For all ages at 11am, 1 and 3pm. Free, recreated trench with periscopes and a a studio session (11am and 2pm). through the museum, live animal shows drop in dug-out, along with a soundscape and 20 Nov, 18 Dec FAMILY AFFAIR and more. For ages 7-11. Every Sun DROP-IN DESIGN Pick up a projection will evoke what daily life was Be inspired by Rembrandt’s paintings to 27 Nov, 19, 23, 28, 30 Dec, 3 Jan design challenge, hunt for ideas in the like for the troops. make mini clay portraits of your own PUPPET SHOW: RAPUNZEL, galleries, then create your own. 10.30am- Every Sat and Sun OBJECT family members. GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE 5pm, for age 5+ CONVERSATIONS New immersive FAMILY WALK AND TALK Free family BEARS Enjoy these popular stories and 28-3 Jan POP UP PERFORMANCES: object handling sessions where families walk and talk to bring paintings alive. meet the main characters in our colourful THE NUTCRACKER 11am, 1 and 3pm. can explore objects from the collections- For all ages, 12.30-1.30pm. puppet show. As well as interacting with Discover the enchanting world of The feel the weight of a shrapnel piece from 16, 23, 30 Nov, 7 Dec WELCOME these enchanting tales, you'll learn some Nutcracker with contemporary dance per - the First World War and come to grips WEDNESDAYS Bring paintings to life amazing facts about the natural world. formances. Suitable for all the family. with real objects. Drop-in, free, for all through interactive music, storytelling, Children will be encouraged to think about Free, drop in. ages. 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm. art and messy play activities. Every things like the strength and structure of 28 Dec- 3 Jan IMAGINATION Wednesday, 10.30 and 11.30am for hair, and can handle real specimens from NATIONAL GALLERY STATION: CHRISTMAS AND NEW walkers under age five, 1pm for sitting the Museum's collection. Shows at 12 and YEAR Seek out Christmas objects around WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk babies to walkers. 1.30pm. the museum through a playful game. Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS 4 Dec SNOW SCENES 18 Dec GALLERY CHARACTER - 10.30am - 5pm. Free, drop-in, for age 3+ Activities designed for families to enjoy HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: Dorothea Bate was the consummate FREE ART FUN-BACK-PACKS, ACTIVI - and learn together, 11am and 3pm. 28-30 Dec UPSIDE DOWN palaeontologist, zoologist and TY CART AND ANIMAL BAGS Families MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For CHRISTMAS Be inspired by the ornithologist. Find out how her knowledge can pick up an activity Back-Pack, get cre - children aged 2-5. Sundays 10.30-11am Australia's Impressionists exhibition by helps her to relate fauna, or animal life, to ative at Drop-in-Design or go on a gallery and 11.30am–12pm. Fly away on the making sunny works of art. For age 2+ at the environment and climate of the time. adventure trail. Free, drop-in. Suitable for magic carpet, coming to land in front of a 11am and 2pm. 11.30am-1pm and 2-3.30pm. children aged 4 to 11 different painting each day. Activity Cart: Fantastic hands-on art fun DRAWING SUNDAY Explore gallery NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM SCIENCE MUSEUM for children to create collages and pictures paintings as inspiration for your art. For SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk to take home. ages 5-11. Sundays 11am and 2pm. Every weekend INVESTIGATE FOR 10 Dec SCIENCE NIGHT A special Agent Animal bag : A sensory activity Drop-in. FAMILIES Get a feel for how scientists overnight event for 7-13 year olds bag that has been developed especially 13 Nov, 11 Dec PICTURE POST - work by having a go yourself. Come and featuring exciting hands-on workshops, for under 5s. Each bag contains an audio CARDS Travel through Canaletto’s visions explore hundreds of real nature specimens science shows, and a sleepover at the map and fabric cubes. of Venice and create your own postcard. that form the evidence Museum scientists museum.

November-December 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 15 WHAT’S ON CONTINUED KENSINGTON PALACE WALLACE COLLECTION own the stage. 2-3.30pm, free, drop-in, CONCERT An evening of Christmas W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org for ages 5-11. celebration in the atmospheric Victorian evening walking tour and discover the 4 Dec THE LITTLE DRAW Free drop-in 11 Dec THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT: Chapel. Carols followed by light seasonal stories of ghostly apparitions, paranormal drawing workshop for all ages and abili - MAKE YOUR OWN STAGE Create a refreshments in front of the fire in the activity and all manner of spooky ties with artist Luisa Rivera, whose work 3D pop-up theatre displaying your own Tudor Great Hall. 6.30pm-8pm happenings from the palace’s history. fantastical stage show. 2-3.30pm, free, draws on folk culture, history, and story - For 8 - 14 year olds. telling to create narratives. In this work - drop-in, for ages 5-11. KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk shop, Luisa will create drawing quests HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY selected Thurs and Sats that will encourage visitors to learn and FULHAM PALACE CENTRE TINY EXPLORERS Discover the rediscover the Wallace Collection. SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecologyevents fascinating stories of Hampton Court 1:30 - 4:30pm, all ages. every Mon and Tues (until 13 Dec) 10 Dec TERRIFIC TREES: ECOLOGY Palace in a multi-sensory workshop which 22 Dec GET CRACKING Get ready for THE PALACE EXPLORERS A weekly CENTRE OPEN DAY Celebrate National includes music, movement and messy play Christmas and Hanukkah by making some parent/carer and toddler sessions for chil - Tree Week, make decorations for tree for 0-4yrs. Booking essential. festive crackers inspired by the Wallace dren aged 2-4. £3 per child, which dressing and help the Conservation 25 Nov-8 Jan HAMPTON COURT Collection. Free, drop-in, 11am-1pm, includes a drink and healthy snack. Volunteers with tree planting. Drop-in PALACE ICE RINK 10, 11, 17 and all ages. 20 Nov HANDS-ON ARCHAEOLOGY 11am-3.30pm, free. A rare opportunity to examine archaeo - 18 Dec logical finds and learn more about the rich FESTIVE FAMILY FUN Hear tales from KENSINGTON PALACE and varied history of this ancient site. the Elizabethan court and enjoy fun craft W8 4PX Free, no booking necessary. activities for all the family, including mak - www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace DAYS OUT All ages, 1-3pm. ing your own scented pomander. Weds and Sats TINY EXPLORERS 3, 4, 11 Dec FATHER CHRISTMAS 11am-4 pm, free. Discover fascinating stories about BRITISH LIBRARY See our Where’s Santa page for 21 Dec-1 Jan AN ELIZABETHAN Kensington Palace in these multi-sensory NW1 2DB www.bl.u more details (page 10). CHRISTMAS Fun, drama, and intrigue as workshops. Music, movement, messy play 27 Nov FAMILY VARIETY ACTS Turn 11 Dec CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME- the Palace gets ready to host a celebration and more for 0-4yrs. your family party piece into a Victorian ALADDIN A family pantomime with fit for the Queen. Drama, dance, musical To book, call 020 3166 6646. variety act - be it magic, dance, wise- colourful sets, special effects and a flying performances and Yuletide treats in the 26 Nov MAKE HISTORY: NATURE cracking, singing or tombola-turning. magic carpet. 11am and 1pm. Tudor kitchens, 10am-4pm. DOMES Take up a popular Victorian Learn how to improvise, entertain and 11 Dec CHRISTMAS CAROL 1 Jan FAMILY GHOST TOURS An early hobby and create a nature dome to

16 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR November-December 2016 decorate your home. For ages 5-11. 26 Nov-24 Dec THE MAGIC OF BECK THEATRE Sessions at 11am, 12.30 and 2.30pm. CHRISTMAS Entering a cosy Grotto via a UB3 2UE www.becktheatre.org.uk 17 Dec MAKE HISTORY: VICTORIAN sparkling Woodland Walkway, children 29 Nov FATHER CHRISTMAS NEEDS PUPPET THEATRES Stage your own will meet the Elves and of course Father A WEE At every house Father Christmas Pantomime this Christmas and create a Christmas himself, before exchanging a eats and drinks the tasty treats that have Victorian shadow puppet theatre. magical Golden Ticket for something very been left for him. But when he reaches For ages 5-11. Sessions at 11am, 12.30 special in the Elves’ Teddy-Tastic number ten he realises that he’s forgotten and 2.30pm. Workshop. Take part in Christmas themed to do something rather important. arts and crafts, meet the crazy elves at Elf A musical adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s school and greet the Christmas Lambs much loved book. TW9 3AB www.kew.org about the farm. 9-31 Dec CINDERELLA Pauline Quirke 23 Nov-2 Jan CHRISTMAS will star as the Fairy Godmother in this ILLUMINATIONS TRAIL show packed with all of the traditional MR POPPER’S PENGUINS AT THE CRITERION THEATRE 23 Nov-2 Jan CHRISTMAS FAMILY THEATRE pantomime ingredients. ILLUMINATIONS TRAIL The one-mile sparkling path winds its way through the THE AMBASSADORS THEATRE CHELSEA THEATRE CRITERION THEATRE botanical wonderland, with brightly WC2H 9ND SW10 0DR www.chelseatheatre.org.uk W1V 9LB coloured laser beams dancing over water, www.theambassadorstheatre.co.uk 30 Nov-24 Dec LITTLE RED RIDING www.mrpopperspenguinslive.com a Tunnel of Lights, scented Fire Garden 2 Dec-8 Jan THE VERY HUNGRY HOOD Come to the theatre in your 16-31 Dec MR POPPER’S PENGUINS and fairy-tale avenues of flora. Santa and CATERPILLAR SHOW Four stories from pyjamas, slippers, onesies or dressing- Mr and Mrs Popper and their remarkable his elves will be in the North Pole village, the wonderful world of Eric Carle Live on gowns, for a tale packed with special pies, family of performing penguin puppets are plus favourite vintage rides, Christmas stage and in the West End for the first smelly fur coats and donuts. For age 4+t coming to London direct from a UK tour gifts and traditional festive fare. time. Featuring a menagerie of 75 and US première at New York’s renowned enchanting puppets in a magical 60- CHISWICK HOUSE AND New Victory Theatre. Painter and decora - ODDS FARM PARK minute show. GARDEN tor by day, Mr Popper dreams of Antarctic adventures. He is astounded when one HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk W4 2RP www.chgt.org.uk BARBICAN THEATRE day a packing crate arrives on his A fabulous day out at the farm! 16-31 Dec CINDERELLA Fun for all EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/theatre doorstep, out of which waddles a Meet the farmers and get close to the the family, this pop-up immersive theatre 13-21 Dec SPONGE-TURNED ON ITS penguin! With original music and lyrics, animals in the hands-on area and in the event is a thrilling version of the classic HEAD Roll, squeeze and pop yourself and a family of performing penguins large undercover animal barns. There is a tale. This production combines an eclectic through a new malleable kind of show, brought vividly to life through the magic massive adventure play area with a four mix of first-class performers. Expect set to an original 1970s-influenced score. of puppetry, this show is suitable for all lane astra slide, two drop slides, a netted dancing mice, acrobatic lizards, ballerina Two friendly dancers guide you, revealing area with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, snowflakes and a crazy magician. small - and large-scale squishy, squashy swinging ropes and much more. Also a environments, fascinating in shape, texture WHAT’S ON LISTINGS special Toddler and Under 5’s areas. and touch. For ages 3 months to 4 years. CONTINUE ON PAGE 18

November-December 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 17 WHAT’S ON CONTINUED

GREENFORD HALL traditional panto returns in 2016 when UB6 9QN www.heos.org.uk Aladdin flies into Hammersmith with a 28 and 29 Dec BEAUTY AND THE show full of colourful characters, live BEAST A traditional family friendly music, lots of laughs and of course the pantomime full of excitement, adventure magical genie. and plenty of audience participation. LYRIC THEATRE THE LILIAN BAYLISS STUDIO W1D 7ES EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com www.nimaxtheatres.com/lyric-theatre 10-30 Dec THE LITTLE MATCH GIRL Until 8 Jan - THE GRUFFALO LIVE A magical dance theatre show with live Join Mouse on a daring adventure through music based on Hans Christian Andersen's the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories' magi - classic story of a young street girl’s hopes cal, musical adaptation of the classic pic - and dreams. ture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Songs, laughs and scary fun for LONDON COLISEUM children aged 3 and up and their grown- WC2N 4ES www.ballet.org.uk ups, in the much-loved show that's toured THE GRUFFALO LIVE 23 Dec-7 Jan NUTCRACKER Clara Britain and the world. AT THE LYRIC THEATRE and her enchanted Nutcracker doll discover a magical world, where she MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN with great songs, fantastic dance routines battles with the Mouse King and meets a W12 7LJ PUPPET THEATRE BARGE W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com and plenty of laughter, including A good handsome stranger. As the air grows cold, www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 3 Dec-8 Jan A CHRISTMAS CAROL Fairy, a Magic Mirror and the silliest Seven Clara and her valiant Nutcracker take a 20 Dec OOH IN THE BOX MUSICAL A Christmas production from Dickens’ Dwarfs you’ve ever seen. hot air balloon ride across London to the SHOW The Oooh in the Box - who’s in well-loved story about a mean old miser, glistening Land of Snow where her the box? What’s in the box? Winter SADLER’S WELLS adventures, stories, songs and Scrooge, who is visited by the Christmas adventure really begins. A treat for all EC1 www.sadlerswells.com instruments unfold as we find out whatev - ghost and transformed into a jovial 6 Dec-29 Jan THE RED SHOES er it is, and however it came to be in a generous old man. Presented with LYRIC HAMMERSMITH Matthew Bourne’s magical adaptation will W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk box... Lots of Christmassy surprises might marionettes and shadow puppets, special dazzle your senses and break your heart. 18 Nov - 24 Dec RAYMOND BRIGGS’ be there too! For children up to 6. effects and dramatic lighting, this is an exciting and magical experience for the FATHER CHRISTMAS A charming show SOUTHBANK CENTRE PEACOCK THEATRE festive season. For age 4+ is back to delight children under 6 and SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com their families. Follow Santa as he awakes 25 Nov, 2, 9, 16 Dec RUG RHYMES 23 Nov-1 Jan THE SNOWMAN Based QUESTORS THEATRE from a dream of sun, sea and sand only to FOR THE UNDER FIVES A short on the book by Raymond Briggs. step into W5 5BQ www.questors.org.uk find it is the busiest day of the year: session of nursery rhymes, poems and the wonderful wintery world of a boy and 15 Dec-2 Jan CINDERELLA Join Christmas Eve. This timeless festive story rhyming stories, and the opportunity to his magical snowman. As a unique friend - orphaned Cinderella, bashful Buttons, bursts into life with live music, playful look at and borrow books. ship is kindled, the two embark on a devious Dandini, and a cast of local puppets and a magical set. Free but booking essential. starry-skied adventure to the North Pole, children, for a brand-new staging of this 19 Nov-7 Jan ALADDIN What would 27 Nov, 7, 21 Dec PRAM JAM: where they meet Father Christmas and traditional family pantomime in the heart you do with three wishes? The Lyric's JUST FOR DADS Dads, grandads and narrowly escape the clutches of Jack Frost. of Ealing. A show packed with colourful male carers - kick off the day by singing characters, magical moments and soaring and grooving with your child aged 5 and showtunes. under. 27 Nov DAD DANCING WORKSHOP TW9 1QJ Take part in a workshop and performance www.atgtickets.com/Richmond championing the mysterious art of dad 2 Dec-8 Jan SLEEPING BEAUTY dancing. For ages 5+ with their dads, Sleeping Beauty is a timeless story telling grandads and male carers. 2.30pm. the classic tale of Princess Beauty who has 28 Nov, 5, 12 Dec DRAGON BABIES a spell cast over her by a Wicked Fairy Bring your little ones to shake, rattle and sending her into a deep sleep - but can gong. Gamelan for ages 3-5. the spell be broken by a handsome Prince 3 Dec PRAM JAM: CIRCUS FOR and will there be a happy ever after? With UNDER 5’s Learn some fun circus skills sumptuous sets, gorgeous fairytale cos - and move and groove with your little one. tumes, big song and dance numbers, 10.30am - 11.15am magic and bags of audience participation, 3 and 4 Dec CIRCUS WEEKEND Sleeping Beauty is a spectacular Roll up, roll up and join NoFit State Circus pantomime guaranteed to keep you wide for a weekend of acrobatic fun. awake this Christmas! Workshops, face painting and circus themed crafts for ages 5+ SHAW THEATRE 10 Dec FAMILY GAMELAN TASTER SESSION Introduction to the Javanese RAYMOND BRIGGS’ FATHER CHRISTMAS NW1 2AJ www.shaw-theatre.com AT THE LYRIC HAMMERSMITH 10-30 Dec SNOW WHITE AND THE percussion orchestra called the gamelan. SEVEN DWARFS A pantomime bursting For ages 6+

18 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR November-December 2016 14 Dec PRAM JAM: EARLY YEARS DANCE WORKSHOP Get creative with your toddler as you dance together in The CONCERTS AND Clore Ballroom. For under 5s. 16 -24 Dec DUCKIE Family-friendly MUSIC WORKSHOPS cabaret glamour and glitz takes centre stage in this reworking of The Ugly BACH TO BABY Duckling for age 6+ www.bachtobaby.com/londonnorth 21 Dec A MAGICAL STICK MAN All concerts at 10.30am. SCREENING AND SHOW Watch the 23 Nov, 14 Dec in Kensington animated film of Stick Man on the big (Christ Church, Victoria Road, W8) screen, followed by songs and storytelling 15 Nov, 20 Dec in Notting Hill with Julia Donaldson and live illustration (St. John's Church, from Axel Scheffler. Julia and Axel are Lansdowne Crescent, W11) partaking in a book signing after the event 25 Nov, 23 Dec in Chiswick and there will be the opportunity to meet (St. Michael and All Angels, Stick Man himself. For ages 5-8. Bath Road, W4) 29 and 30 Dec POGGLE A singing, dancing, theatrical adventure with the mis - MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN chievous Poggle. For ages 6 months to 5 W12 7LJ years. www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 11 Dec CHRISTMAS CAROL THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE CONCERT Under the sparkling WC2B 5JF www.reallyuseful.com/ chandeliers of Bush Hall, families, friends theatres/theatre-royal-drury-lane and children will enjoy Christmas carols, Ongoing CHARLIE AND THE performances and readings by children CHOCOLATE FACTORY Roald Dahl’s and artists. deliciously dark tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner CADOGAN HALL Willy Wonka in a musical directed by SW1X 9DQ Sam Mendes. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. www.cadoganhall.com 17 Dec THE SNOWMAN & WE'RE UNICORN THEATRE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT An SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com interactive retelling of the traditional 16 Nov-31 Dec BADDIES: children’s rhyme, with music by Ian THE MUSICAL Someone’s decided to Stephens. Bring your favourite teddy, and change the fairytale rulebook and no-one prepare to join in with the story, followed seems to know why. How are you by a screening of The Snowman, shown supposed to tell who the good guys are on the big screen with Howard Blake’s when there are no baddies around? Step instantly recognisable score played live. into the lives of everyone’s favourite vil - 18 Dec ROYAL PHILHARMONIC lainous characters and find out. Fairytale ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS CRACKER Fun workshops on 26 Nov. Magical A performance of sparkling festive songs Midnight Mischief Sleepovers on 10 and music in Sloane Square, which will and 16 Dec. be all lit up in all its Christmassy glory. 30 Nov-1 Jan BOING This piece of 22 Dec FATHER CHRISTMAS & dance-theatre captures the delirious PADDINGTON BEAR’S FIRST excitement of two boys waiting for Father CONCERT Raymond Brigg’s animated Christmas to arrive on the most magical film Father Christmas is brought to the night of the year. There are beds to be big screen with the Mozart Symphony jumped on, pillows to be fought with, Orchestra supplying a live accompani - seas to be sailed... On this most ment. Featuring the voice of Simon extraordinary night, let your imagination Murray as Father Christmas this irreverent soar right up to the stars. This is a deaf- glimpse into Santa’s personal life will friendly show. For ages 2-6. have you and your kids rocking with laughter.

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November-December 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 19 FOOTBALL/SPORTS CLUBS & CLASSES KIDDIKICKS Football (W2,W4,W8,W10,W11,TW8) DANCE DRAMA Available for boys and girls from 18 months to age 7. DANCE GALLERY ALLSORTS DRAMA 020 7937 7965 TUTORS AND Dance Gallery is Ealing’s leading dance school Drama for children’s term time classes for [email protected] LEARNING SUPPORT and specialises in modern, jazz, tap and ages 4 - 16 are held in SW1, W11 and www.kiddikicks.co.uk musical theatre productions for children aged NW3. To book your free trial class for the EXPLORE LEARNING 4-18 years old. summer term please call: Will To Win Junior Multi-Sports Camps, Maths & English Tuition Centres. 0208 566 9672 020 8767 5298 or: 020 8969 3249 Junior Netball, Football & Tennis courses and 5-14 years. Free Trial session [email protected] www.allsortsdrama.com drop-in sessions. Ealing 020 8090 8710 www.dancegallery.co.uk Allsorts Drama, 34 Crediton Road, Pitshanger Park 020 8991 9844 Hayes 020 8561 8530 London NW10 3DU Lammas Park, 020 8840 0888 Westfield London 020 809 01216 KENSINGTON BALLET www.willtowin.co.uk www.explorelearning.co.uk 18 months - 2 years. PERFORM Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Drama, dance and singing sessions FLEET TUTORS Private home tutoring. Notting Hill and Fulham. held in various venues around London. GYM & DANCE TWISTERS Gymnastics, Ballet,Dance 020 8580 3911 07957 650 042 To find a FREE trial class near you call: Drama. Toddlers to Teenagers. www.fleet-tutors.co.uk www.kensingtonballet.com 0845 400 1285 020 8933 9997 or: 020 8840 4452 www.perform.ork.uk [email protected] VICTORIA PAGE WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY www.twisters.org.uk Private tuition 2 1/2 - 11years. Become a Dance Teacher, a new concept STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS 07050 246 810 in dance teacher train ing. Dance, drama and singing for

07771 984 59 0 4-18 year olds. SWIMMING [email protected] Chiswick 0208 398 4709 Water Babies , Bayswater, VIVIEN BORNEMANN www.westlondondanceacademy.com Ealing 01494 260249 Great Ormond Street, Fulham. Home tuition. Art, Craft and design. www.becomeadanceteacher.co.uk Hammersmith & Kensington 020 7585 1510 All ages. 020 8932 1010 0208 398 8106 www.waterbabies.co.uk WEST LONDON SCHOOL OF DANCE [email protected] ARTS & CRAFTS 21/2 - 16 years. www.stagecoach.co.uk LANGUAGES 020 8743 3856 Fun With Filmo Creative Craft Sessions [email protected] Arabic for Women & Children. for ages 6+ in Acton. www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk Female teacher. 07956 845 053 www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk

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