Cherubs Magazine - Winter Edition 2018

Winter 2018 • Issue 3

‘TIS THE SEASON TO BRING YOU THE BEST OF NORTH LONDON

Blue Knitted Jumper (3-16 years) from £18 Cotton Rich Skinny Jeans (3-16 years) from £10 Kids Sequin Hat and Mittens Set from £14 Fairisle Knitted Jumper (3-16 years) from £18 Cotton Rich Skinny Jeans (3-16 years) from £10

★★★★★

‘Perfect introduction to the theatre’

‘A truly theatrical feast’

Sunday Express

The List

FRI 23 NOV - SUN 13 JAN

The Gruffalo © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 1999 – Macmillan Children’s Books.

roomonthebroomlive.co.uk

WED 28 NOV MON 24 DEC stratford-circus.com

★★★★★

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

North Finchley

TUE 4 DEC - SUN 6 JAN artsdepot.co.uk

3 MAGICAL SHOWS on 3 LONDON STAGES

Room on the Broom © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2001 – Macmillan Children’s Books

★★★★

LIVE ON STAG E

The Gruffalo’s Child © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2004 – Macmillan Children’s Books

Based on the picture books by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler

Real people. Real lives. Real stories.

by Two Babies One Pram

Contents Winter 2018 • Issue 3

‘Tis the season to jam-pack your calendar and throw any sort of routine you’ve spent months on out of the window.

Let’s face it, we all say it’s not going to happen and you can’t simply say yes to another cheese board night, and then the telephone rings and before you know it, you’re sitting on someone’s sofa playing charades and cutting a ‘slither’ of brie. It’s going to happen and we have to simply get over it, no other season allows us to consume this amount of goodies, so enjoy.

At the beginning of 2018 I made a promise to myself that I have to concentrate a small percentage of my booked out diary on me. It wasn’t a ‘new year, new me’ moment however, it was pretty much along those lines. Family life is not as smooth as silk, there are many a times where there are frays around the edges with the odd pull and tear – totally normal may I add. I felt I had lost my way slightly and fell into a never ending routine of school run-pick up-activities-bath-bed! I was that person with all the ideas for a great project, which remained only in my mind. A stranger (yes, I talk to random people, and they’re often the best conversations I have) advised me one day to just step out of my comfort zone and take a leap of faith. He asked me what I had to lose in starting this particular dream I had and my answer was “nothing, I just don’t have the time.”

“Ah” he said “the hour that you’ve sat talking to me, a stranger, could have been an hour into planning that dream you’ve had stored in your mind.”

So, here I am with my third edition of Cherubs, a dream that was once in my mind and now it’s in the palms of your hands. It’s not smooth as silk, but it’s certainly allowed me to finally have that ‘me time’ in between all the other things we have to do as parents.

Turn those ideas you have into reality and don’t look back – I’m certainly not and I couldn’t be happier that I’m here with all my wonderful readers.

Laugh, be happy and make memories with your family... after all, what is life worth living for if we don’t enjoy these special moments.

6 18 28 46 62 68

Education 7 The importance of being a parent governor 8 Finding the right tutor Health & Wellbeing 20 Delicious, healthy recipes from Eat Happy Feel Good 24 Five reasons why Pilates should be on your list of priorities Lifestyle 34 Are you the fisherman or the banker?

39 Food - fun - fashion with Fresh Nesh Christmas & New Year 50 Gingerbread men recipe with Stevie’s Pantry 54 Four steps to making a show-stopping wreath this Christmas Travel 63 Abu Dhabi with the kids 66 48 hours in the Peak District & Derbyshire Winter Activities 69 Does your child take part in a sporting activity?

70 Top things to do this winter with our Instagram favourites

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Sevim x

EDITOR @twobabiesonepram

Publisher & Editor: Sevim Safer Style Editor: Antonia Sanchez-Toomey Health & Fitness Editor: Mary Huckle Healthy Food Columnist: Christianna Karaolis Lifestyle Blogger: Neşe Schäffer-Halil Travel Expert: Eda Ayyildiz Cake Artist: Stevie Georgiou Designer: Chris Webb Printers: The Roma Group, 3 Drakes, Enfield Front cover photo Dreem Studios www.dreemstudios.com

Advertise in our next issue email info@cherubsmagazine.com While we take every care to ensure details are correct the publisher will take no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are advised to check information published with individual advertisers and take legal advice where appropriate before entering into any transactions.

Where prices or dates are quoted they are correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change. Unless specifically stated the publisher does not endorse any product or service appearing in the magazine. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher.

Follow us on social media for daily updates @CherubsMagazine

Education

6

Education

The importance of being a parent governor

By Juliette Doggett, Chair of Governors – St Michael’s CE School, Enfield.

It is an opportunity to ‘give something’ back to the people who teach and look after our children during the most important time of their lives. You will also have regular opportunities to challenge the school’s performance ensuring that every child gets the best educational experience possible.

Governors are responsible for the financial oversight of the school and the challenges that it brings, especially in light of budget cuts in education. Governors are

You will get an overview of the school you may not otherwise see. It is a unique opportunity to see how hard the teaching and support staff work and the challenges they face on a daily basis from constant change and high expectations. It is an opportunity to learn new skills and develop those you already have. Being a governor is being part of a team who work together to ensure the school is working efficiently, effectively and in the best interest of staff, children and local community. You also have the opportunity to meet governors from other schools. I feel privileged to have met some wonderful people over the years, some of whom mentored me in my early days as a governor and I will always be grateful to them for taking the time to help and advise me.

However, it is important to know that a governor’s role is strategic and not operational. This can be challenging as a parent governor but it is vital that you remain objective at all times ensuring that you do not promote your own children’s interests or that of their friends. The skill of ‘wearing different hats’ can be difficult but is nonetheless an important one.

My children thoroughly enjoyed the involvement and contribution I made at their school. Despite all four of them having now left, they are incredibly proud of the work I continue to do. For me, I enjoy the interaction I have with the staff, children and parents. I love attending assemblies,

listening to the children sing and hearing about their achievements. As a regular visitor into school many children recognise me and say “hello” and tell me what they have done that morning. I love being a school governor and am very proud of the work I do and the contribution I and the other governors make.

Being a school governor isn’t just a title, we’re expected to constantly challenge the school as well as be supportive and accountable. Ofsted guidelines change regularly and for a governor it is essential to keep up to date with these changes. A strong governing body is the foundation of a strong school and a parent governor can make a massive contribution to this.

How do you become a parent governor?

The process is initially quite simple. A parent or carer first needs to find out if their school has any vacancies, this can often be discovered on the school website or a quick phone call to the school office. Once they’ve expressed their interest they’ll be asked to provide a brief synopsis of why they would like to become a parent governor, what skills they can bring to the governing body and a little about their background. A parent governor election is arranged where parents are asked to vote for prospective candidates.

There are other ways a parent can become a governor, either at their own child’s school or a different school altogether. Each school has different types and numbers of governors and many schools have vacancies, sadly because fewer people want to become a school governor. They can apply to be, for example, co-opted governors, foundation governors or even associate members.

In each of these cases they would still have to find out from the school if there are any vacancies.

To advertise email info@cherubsmagazine.com

Parent governors have an important role in the school, they can offer a wealth of skills and experience that contribute to a balanced and well-run school. As a parent, you are concerned about the quality and learning provision the school has to offer and as a parent governor you can help influence that. Having your children’s best interests at heart means you have the school’s best interests at heart too.

Parents and carers naturally have a great enthusiasm and interest in education and it is that passion that contributes to becoming a strong, supportive and effective governor.

instrumental in setting the ethos, vision and strategic direction of the school including those children with special educational needs and ensuring every child receives a broad and balanced curriculum. Governors also have responsibility for overseeing the safeguarding in the school and have a voice in helping make decisions on matters such as homework, uniform and bullying, this in turn will help direct the school into making decisions. Having a parent’s perspective means you will be empowered to challenge decisions and have your point of view heard.

cherubsmagazine.com

Fourteen years ago Juliette Doggett was successfully elected as parent governor at her children’s then primary school – St Michaels CE School and for the past 10 years has been Chair of the governing body. We asked Juliette (pictured above with her family) to explain what a parent governor does and how to become one.

tutor

Finding the right

Education - Advertising Feature

8

with Dr. Andrew Sergis Looking for a tutor for your child in the new year?

We asked Dr Sergis to provide our readers with some points for finding a good tutor for your child.

Initially, it is important that you know your child’s goals before hiring any form of tutor.

Ask yourself or your child’s teacher:

• • •

What level of help do we need? Does my child need homework help, intensive remediation, or something in between?

What areas do we want to see the tutor improve: better scores in one subject, improved general skills or motivation?

What do I know about my child’s learning style? Does s/he learn best by reading, listening, moving? What motivates and interests them?

Qualifications

Feedback

Patience

Creativity

Personality

Affordability

A person with a degree will have specialist knowledge in the area that they claim to teach.

Teaching requires an abundance of patience and dedication to students. A good tutor will gladly encourage students and praise them for their efforts.

A good tutor should always inspire students, have a positive attitude and always be approachable.

•

Flexibility

The following are the most important things to look for when trying to find a tutor for your child.

Proximity

How much time and money can you devote to tutoring? Don’t skimp, but be honest with yourself before you start.

A tutor should alter his or her methods or style of teaching according to the student’s own pace and learning requirements.

It would be ideal if the tutor lives or works near you as this would ensure he or she will show up promptly for sessions.

A good tutor should always be prepared to give regular feedback to the parents on the progress of students.

It’s essential that the tutor motivates students and encourages their creative talent in order for them to achieve their best in exams.

Tutors will charge anywhere between £15 to more than £80 per hour. The more specialist the tutor, the higher the price.

It’s best to visit the tutor and ask what he or she is offering and to find out their style and methods of teaching. Cheaper prices don’t necessarily mean good quality teaching.

The Dr Sergis Academy 52E Southbury Road, Enfield Middlesex EN1 1YB 020 8362 1398 07951 579245 www.dsacademy.co.uk

Winter 2018 • Issue 3

BROOMFIELD SCHOOL A school for our community

Come and visit us to see what Broomfield can offer your child as they embark on their next step to Secondary School

OPEN MORNINGS Thursday's - 13th December 2018, 31st January, 28th February, 7th March, 28th March, 23rd May, 27th June and 11th July 2019 at 9.15am

Wilmer Way, Southgate, N14 7HY www.broomfield.enfield.sch.uk

#bepartofoursuccess

Starting nursery: top tips for a smooth transition

By Sarah Harney

Education - Advertising Feature

10

Congratulations, you have chosen a lovely nursery for your three or four-year-old.

Here are some suggestions for how to prepare for this wonderful experience: • Try to attend any transition sessions the nursery offers to familiarise your child with the setting; for example, show them where the toilet is located. Be enthusiastic and point out things your child will enjoy.

• Let the nursery know about your child’s likes and dislikes. If they have an allergy or medical condition, make an appointment to discuss this in detail and make sure the nursery is aware of medication your child needs.

• Encourage your son or daughter to put on and take off their coat.

• Make sure your child can feed themselves with a fork, knife and spoon, as well as drink from an open cup. Staff will cut up food if it is required or help open boxes or packaging.

• If the nursery does not have a uniform, dress your child in clothes that are easy to pull on or off and that you don’t mind getting messy.

• Talk about going to nursery and read books about the experience; for example, Going to Nursery by Catherine and Laurence Anholt.

• Find opportunities beforehand for socialising with other children to practise taking turns and sharing toys and resources.

• As the day approaches, don’t let your child know that you feel apprehensive or upset at the thought of your ‘baby’ starting nursery.

• Check if the nursery expects your child to be toilet trained and able to wipe themselves.

• After the initial sessions, get into the habit of saying a cheery goodbye with a kiss or hug: try not to have a long drawn-

out, emotional farewell. Children tend to get upset at the thought of parting with you, rather than going to nursery and often stop crying quickly when they see their friends or favourite activities.

• If you have left your child crying, phone the nursery after 30 minutes to see how they are or ask the key worker to phone you as soon as they have settled.

If you have any concerns, talk to your child’s key worker or the nursery manager as soon as possible. A good relationship with nursery staff will benefit your child and reassure you. Nursery staff are a good source of advice and support. They will be happy to talk to you about your child.

Sarah Harney, Head of Nursery at Palmers Green High School Nursery, 85 Wellington Road, Enfield, EN1 2PL

INDEPENDENT NURSERY FOR GIRLS AGED 3 - 4 YEARS

You are invited to visit our Nursery and see it in action

OPEN MORNINGS Every Wednesday at 9.30am Please call to book an appointment prior to visiting Outstanding EYFS Inspection Nursery Education Funding available Full and part-time places Girls are given priority for a Reception place at Palmers Green High School \\pghs-sr-admin\shared_docume...\Day2PG2.jpg

“The Nursery is a great start to early years with wonderful teaching staff.” Parent “Our experience of the Nursery has been fantastic.” Parent “The Nursery itself is a fun and bright environment with excellent facilities." Parent

Palmers Green High School, 104 Hoppers Road, London N21 3LJ PGHS Nursery, 85 Wellington Road, Bush Hill Park, Enfield, EN1 2PL

Tel: 020 8886 1135 www.pghs.co.uk Email:office@pghs.co.uk

Education - Advertising Feature

12

Welcome to Grange Park Prep School Flavia Rizzo is delighted to be the headteacher at Grange Park Prep School; a long-established, happy and successful school that provides a stimulating education for pupils from Nursery (aged three to four) through to Year 6.

Since joining in January 2017, she has enjoyed working together with staff, pupils and parents to get the very best education introducing innovative and exciting learning opportunities.

One of the major changes she has implemented is the move to co-education from September 2018.

Flavia says “This will enable us to now offer a mixed education, making us the only Prep School in N21 offering a top private education for boys and girls through to 11-plus.

“We aim to create passionate and successful lifelong learners equipped for their future journey. This is achieved by our inspirational, dedicated and skilful team of staff and governors.

“Grange Park Prep is a school with high expectations and high standards. We expect much from our children, whether

that is applying themselves to their learning in the classroom, displaying good manners with everyone they meet or when taking part in one of the many opportunities outside the classroom.

“We value perseverance, hard work and a positive attitude. We instill the qualities that will prepare our children for success in GPPS, at secondary school and beyond.

Our continuing objective is to encourage the belief that education is a preparation for the future. We guide both pupils and parents through the senior school process to ensure that every child moves onto the right school. ​ “The link between home and school is integral to your child’s success and we encourage parents to take an active part in their child’s learning. We see parents as partners in the education of their children, and greatly value their contribution to school life. Children thrive when they feel happy, safe and respected.”

Flavia welcomes the opportunity to meet with prospective parents and children, please contact our office to book an individual tour or open morning (held on the first Tuesday of every month).

Form h t x i S ng i n e v E Open Nov on 29 m at 6p

North Bridge House Senior Canonbury

Smaller classes.

Exceptional teaching.

Understanding teens.

Choose an Outstanding Sixth Form for September 2019.

Book a visit and see how you could maximise your A-level success. northbridgehouse.com/open 020 7428 1520 6-9 Canonbury Place, London, N1 2NQ

Our Reception Class provides the best start for a young mind The Early Years Team aims to provide a stimulating, active and enthusiastic approach to the boys’ learning. Our experienced teaching team delivers a curriculum that focuses on developing boys academically, physically, creatively and socially in small class sizes (an average of 15 boys per class) Keble Prep really is a school that brings together all areas of learning, providing boys with a solid foundation to realise their potential, developing Keble boys who will

GROW, SUCCEED & ACHIEVE KBL143_ad_136x190

14/3/16

15:40

Page 1

As part of our commitment to developing the whole boy we have just opened an exciting new Reception playground, splitting the space into two areas to allow for free-flow indoor/ outdoor play.

We think this area will give the boys almost limitless opportunities to enhance their learning through play, exploration, problem solving, collaboration and, most of all, fun!

Call Jane Wicks for more information on places in Reception.

0208 360 3359.

Tel: 020 8360 3359 Email: admissions@kebleprep.co.uk www.kebleprep.co.uk

KBL165_ad_136x190.indd 4

Keble provides an excellent all-round education, in small class groups, combining high academic standards with opportunities for boys to achieve in Sport, Music, Drama and a broad extra-curricular programme.

The best way to experience what Keble can offer you and your son is to visit us, meet the boys and get a real sense of why we really are a school where all boys can grow, achieve and succeed. The impressive range of senior schools we send boys to both at 11+ and 13+ is testament to how well we do academically. However, here at Keble Prep we realise that academia is just one part of your son’s character and so through our sports, arts, music and drama we look to develop your son’s physical, creative, emotional and personal character.

We are now interviewing for Reception 2019 and do have occasional places in other year groups.

Keble Prep, Wades Hill, Winchmore Hill, London N21 1BG Tel: 020 8360 3359 www.kebleprep.co.uk

12/01/2018 16:26

16 Education

Online safety Family Lives offers sound advice on keeping your teen out of danger online Access to the internet means that information is just a click away from your teen, either through their mobile phone or laptop. The internet is a great resource for families helping with homework, shopping and staying in touch with friends through social networks.

Online gaming has become the new going out for many young people as they meet their friends online to play games alongside and against each other. All these wonderful and innovative things you can do on the internet is often overshadowed by the dangers and safety issues of being online.

With children being encouraged to use the internet more and more in their everyday lives it is important that parents are equipped with as much information to keep their child safe.

Another way that teenagers are communicating online is through blogging.

Blogs are a type of online diary, which other people can read and comment on. It’s normal for teenagers to want to communicate with other people their own age, but it’s important that our children also talk to us about what’s happening in their life, at school and in their relationships with others. If you are worried about keeping your child safe online or want to know more about what they’re actually using the internet for, here are our hints and tips.

Tips on keeping your teen safe Show an interest in what your child is doing on the net but try for a balance between respecting their privacy and making sure they don’t feel the need to be secretive.

Agree rules such as never giving out contact details online and make sure that your child knows why they should never give out their full name, home address, telephone number or email address.

Agree with your child what they can and can’t have access to on the net. Insist they don’t download anything from ‘pop-ups’ that can appear on the screen. These are often pornographic. Ask them to fetch you if the ‘pop-ups’ keep reappearing as they can be very persistent. Software like ‘Net Nanny’ or ‘Adware’ can be installed to block undesirable sites or ‘pop-ups’.

Remember some young people will use chat rooms to ‘reinvent’ themselves which is perfectly normal.

Use this opportunity to talk to your children about related issues such as sex and relationships.

Don’t just have one-off conversations about keeping safe.

Ask your Internet service provider what service they offer to protect your family.

Are you intimidated by technology, don’t have access to the Internet or haven’t had the opportunity to learn? Try your local family centres, colleges, libraries and Internet cafes.

There are special types of software that can be installed to block unwanted sites or ‘pop-ups’. They offer online activity monitoring, recording and blocking. This software protects your children and gives you with the comfort of knowing that you are protecting them without stopping them from using the internet.

It also means that you can know at all times what your children are doing when online and are able to put a stop to any potential threats and dangerous situations that might appear. Read reviews on the best software available (for example on www.reviewcentre. com) before making your choice.

For further information please visit their website www.familylives.org.uk You can talk to one of the Family Support Workers at Family Lives by calling their confidential helpline on 0808 800 2222.

READING

MUSIC

ADVENTURE

LEARNING

SPORTS

DRAWING

A DAY CARE EXPERIENCE YOUR CHILDREN WILL LOVE

HISTORY

STAFF

The pre-school was established in 2001 is situated in the grounds of Botany Bay Cricket Club and operates Monday – Friday term time only. It is a rural area allowing many opportunities to explore the outdoor environment. There is a very large enclosed car park which allows parents to accompany children into the setting without the worry of parking restrictions. It also allows parents the opportunity to speak to practitioners and network with other parents.

There are 2 classrooms these are used almost exclusively by the preschool.

Staff are qualified at Level 2 and 3 and the manager has attained Early Years Professional Status.

As well as the E.Y.F.S. we offer a Montessori curriculum and modern language class. The adult child ratio is approx. 1:4 for 2-3 year olds and 1:6 for 3-4 year olds.

ENVIRONMENT

DEVELOPMENT

There is a small outdoor play area but also extensive grounds which can be used. The pre-school is a secure and happy environment offering a supportive setting where children feel valued and happy as they go about their activities.

All children are eager to learn and gain understanding of their world. The children are encouraged to work at their own pace to fulfill their own needs. We are committed to helping children develop their self-confidence and appreciation of others. The children are encouraged to develop listening skills, where time is taken to listen to the children both in group settings and a one to one basis.

rightstartmontessori.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing

18

Health & Wellbeing

cherubsmagazine.com To advertise email info@cherubsmagazine.com

with Christianna from @eathappyfeelgood

Getting kids to eat healthy food isn’t always easy, in fact sometimes it’s downright stressful. But let’s be fair to them, new flavours can be intimidating and even unpleasant until their little palates get used to them. And often there are far more fun and interesting things to do than eat legumes or whatever healthy food we put in front of them. I’ve been using these Fred dinner winner plates for a few years now and my kids love them! They have eight little compartments for food or snacks and then a lidded section for a treat once they have completed their meal. I sometimes put a little note with a fun activity for us to do together rather that an edible treat but both work so well. They come in various patterns.

Eat Happy Feel Good WITH CHRISTIANNA Food has always been important to me, a part of every celebration and so many good memories.

Since having children it has become even more so. When I cook, I think about nourishing my children and ensuring their bodies are healthy but also about their emotional relationship with food. I feel this is so important and something we all need to think about. We use food to reward and punish, both ourselves and our children but this may be setting us up for problems. Instead, I try to encourage a love for healthy food, teach them what food does for our mind and body and show them how to enjoy all food. Developing good habits can really help; sitting down to eat, talking about about food, whats in it; the smells, flavours and textures. Preparing food with our children is so important in helping them engage with it and be more willing to try new things. I also often ask my children “is your tummy full” to try and teach them to listen to their bodies and eat more mindfully. Because ultimately, food is not only something that can help us be healthy, it is one of the most enjoyable things we do.

So, eat happy and feel good.

Oat, Seed & Thyme Loaf This is so easy to make, feels hearty and tastes delicious. I absolutely love it with butter but it’s so good with soup, hummus, salad...

Health & Wellbeing

20

Makes 1 loaf Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • •

4 cups gluten-free rolled oats 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds 1/4 cup linseeds 1/4 cup sunflower seeds 1/4 cup chia seeds 1 teaspoon finely chopped thyme 2 cups almond milk 3 eggs 1/4 cup veg oil or coconut oil

Method • • • • • • •

Preheat oven to 175 degrees C and line a loaf tin.

Mix all the dry ingredients in a large bowl.

In a smaller bowl mix the eggs, almond milk and oil.

Pour the wet mix into the dry mix and stir well.

Let it sit for 10 minutes then pour into the lined tin.

Bake for about 1 hour 10 mins or until an inserted knife comes out clean.

Let it cool down a little and then transfer to a cooling rack to cool further before slicing.

Hazelnut Cacao Balls Makes 12

These are my children’s favourite healthy treat and probably mine too. The combination of hazelnuts and cacao is just delicious. They are so easy to make, my nine-year-old daughter makes them with minimal adult supervision (in fact those are her little hands in the picture) All you need is 12 large medjool dates, 1 heaped tablespoon hazelnut butter, (peanut butter also works) 80g toasted hazelnuts and 2 tablespoons cocoa powder. Blitz it all together but don’t overdo it, you want to retain some texture from the nuts. The mixture will look crumbly but once you press it together and roll it, it will form balls. When you’ve made your balls put them in the fridge to set for about 1 hour and enjoy. These do not last long in our house!

Raspberry Oats I love raspberries. In fact they’re one of my favourite fruits and in this healthy breakfast you get the bright flavour of raspberries with the filling comfort of oats. It takes just a few minutes to make so perfect for busy mornings. It’s also very flexible.

You can substitute the almond milk for any milk you like, add more oats if you want it thicker, add more honey to make it sweeter, to make it vegan swap the honey for agave syrup... play around with it to suit your taste.

Makes 2 portions Ingredients

1/2 cup gluten free jumbo oats 1 large ripe mashed banana 1 cup raspberries (fresh or frozen) 1 cup unsweetened almond milk 1 tablespoon chia seeds 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 tablespoon honey (add more if you want it sweeter)

cherubsmagazine.com

• • • • • • •

Method

• Combine all ingredients in a sway pan and cook over a medium heat, stirring regularly for about 7 minutes.

• Top with whatever you like I love to add more raspberries and something crunchy.

This is probably one of the easiest soups to make but it’s nourishing, comforting and so delicious... everything a soup should be. I use butter because I love the flavour but you can replace it with olive oil to make it vegan.

These quantities serve 4 as a main meal.

Ingredients • • • • • •

1 onion 1kg frozen peas 50g butter (or olive oil to make it vegan) 1kg veg stock 25g fresh mint leaves Salt and pepper to taste

Method

• Chop the onion and sauté in the butter (or oil) for 5 to 7 minutes, till soft but not browned • Add the peas and stock and cook for 10 minutes on a medium heat • Add the mint, take off the heat and blitz till smooth • Season to taste Equally delicious hot or cold and perfect with some seeded bread.

Follow Cristianna @eathappyfeelgood for more yummy dishes.

To advertise email info@cherubsmagazine.com

Pea & Mint Soup

4

Tip #

Get body positioning right: – your growing bump changes your centre of gravity and you’ll probably notice your pelvis tilting and shoulders curving forward, for example.

This can be countered by getting in correct alignment when doing an exercise and ensuring you’re working the key muscles affected. For example, do chest opening exercises for the shoulders.

5

Tip #

Remember your pelvic floor. Try to incorporate pelvic floor contractions into day-to-day activity. By activating your pelvic floor you’ll also engage your abdominals, so it’s a 2 for 1 situation. For example, when squatting breathe out when coming up and at the same time pull up the pelvic floor to work your abdominals.

Health & Wellbeing

22

Staying active during your pregnancy will help you control excess weight gain, improve mood, ward off aches and pains, improve posture and will hopefully help you in labour and with post-birth recovery. So, unless the doctor says it’s a no-no, there’s no reason to stop with the fitness. Overall, just be sensible, listen to your body and be sure that you modify your exercise and intensity as you go through your pregnancy.

Pregnant, but not sure whether you can exercise?

Pregnancy is fraught with changes, our hormones are all over the place and our body grows and stretches like never before, to enable that dot to grow into a little human. It’s a truly amazing process, but it’s also somewhat daunting.

For example, keeping fit and active in pregnancy has a hugely beneficial effect on mum and baby, but the overwhelming (and often contradictory) amount of information can lead many a mum-to-be to sack it off entirely as they have no clue what they can and can’t do.

Well, I’m here to help alleviate the fear and help you disseminate the information, so you can have a truly healthy pregnancy.

1

My top tips are:

Tip #

Think about the suitability of the activity.

Basically, anything where there’s a risk of falling (horse riding, gymnastics) or being hit (racquet/contact sports) should probably be avoided. Now is also not the time to take up a new activity – please don’t book yourself in

For anyone wanting more information, I’d be happy to answer any questions or concerns and, in the meantime, good luck with your pregnancy.

for a marathon. Find something suitable for your fitness level, and somewhere where the instructor is pre-natally trained.

2

Tip #

Think about the intensity of exercise and listen to your body. You don’t want to be breathless, so high intensity classes/sports aren’t recommended. A good gauge here is that you can hold a conversation while doing the exercise. And, if you find something starts to feel different, that’s probably the time to tone it down or stop.

3

Tip #

Exercise positions to avoid: ones lying on your back for a long period; ones requiring holds of more than10 seconds (such as a plank) ones involving excessive flexion, where the tummy bulges – crunches, for example – and rotation (Russian twists) as these put too much pressure on the abdominals.

SARAH WÄSSER Sarah Wässer is a personal trainer with qualifications in adapting exercise for pre and postnatal women. She has helped many women around Enfield on their journey through this amazing period in life, so if you need any advice or you’d like to work with Sarah (group classes or one-to-one sessions), then please get in touch. www.sarahwasser.com Instagram & Facebook: sarahwasserPT Twitter: sarahw_PT

All about diastasis recti Diastasis recti, or separation of the abdominal muscle called the rectus abdominal, is a common side effect of pregnancy, but many expectant and new mums don’t even know what it is or whether or not they have it.

The rectus abdominis muscle is the main vertical ‘six pack’ muscle that is susceptible to splitting open when the uterus grows upward out of the pelvis. The two sides of the muscle are held together by a fibrous connective tissue called the linea alba. The strain on the muscle can cause the tissue to thin and then split open above and below the belly button, sometimes resulting in a small bulge in the middle.

The separation is painless because the connective tissue has no nerve supply. A pregnant mum would usually complain of an achy low back as the muscles can no longer support the lower back. There may be a link between diastasis recti and low back pain, pelvic pain, umbilical hernia, urinary incontinence and constipation.

How do I know if I have it?

There is a simple test you can do at home.

You lay on your back with your knees bent up and feet flat on the floor. Place your index finger at the bottom of your sternum in the middle in line with your belly button.

Place your other hand behind your head and do a slight sit up. If you have a potential diastasis recti you will feel your index finger slip into a gap between the two muscles.

Continue to do this by moving your finger in a straight line down your stomach until you reach the top of your pubic bone. A diastasis recti can occur at any point along this line.

Some people notice a bulging or a round ball shape of the stomach protruding centrally this is also a diastasis recti.

Exercising is good for you and a safe thing to do especially if you were active before your pregnancy, however there are certain exercises to avoid these include stomach crunches, planks, sit ups and lifting anything heavy as these could put a further strain on your abdomen. If you want to try any new exercises or start exercising during pregnancy then please ask a professional either a personal trainer or an osteopath/physio.

When sitting up out of bed, engage your lower abs first, if you find that difficult to do then roll onto your side and use your upper body to help lift you up.

The treatment method that best suits your depends on the severity of the diastasis recti.

In most cases, an appropriate exercise programme written by a qualified health professional will help to reduce the severity.

Generally these programmes will be aimed at strengthening your pelvic floor muscles and transverse abdominal muscles. Exercises such as crunches and sit ups should be avoided as they can aggravate the problem.

Surgery can be offered in some cases but only offered once you no longer plan to have any more children as further pregnancy may cause a relapse.

There are no clear guidelines that indicate when surgery is required, but it is generally performed due to cosmetic reasons or because of functional impairments that did not respond to conservative methods.

So please contact your GP for further information.

Written by Meyrem and Ben Ludlow The Mobile Osteopath Meyrem 07944 780162 Ben 07812 541080 www.themobileosteopath.co.uk

On The Green at Winchmore Hill for over 40 years

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Surprisingly two thirds of pregnant woman have it and usually develop it in the 3rd trimester. It is not just pregnancy that can cause this, extra weight and increased intraabdominal pressure can also cause this e.g. weight training in the gym/ lifting a heavy object. Diastasis recti s not dangerous but in some rare cases a hernia can develop which you will need to see your GP.

Women have a greater risk of suffering with this condition if they are 35 years old and over, having pregnancies close together, pregnant with twins or triplets, if they gain weight quickly, over-exercising or doing it incorrectly, poor posture and a weak core.

24 Health & Wellbeing

5

Reasons why pilates should be on your list of priorities

There is still a misconception that the only way you can reach an acceptable level of fitness is to thrash your body with anything that will make you hot, sweaty and knackered.

I’m sure you’ve heard the expression ‘train hard or go home’. The bad news is that there is an element of truth in that saying.

However, there is a ‘but’. If you were to consistently and frequently engage in the same exercise, one or all the following could happen. You run the risk of over-training, of injury or you could unknowingly be creating imbalances and misalignments in your body. For example, a golfer may develop back issues because of the continued swing of the golf club to one side or an avid bodybuilder may bulk up to the point where he or she might lose their flexibility.

Our bodies are designed to move, but the trick is to move them in various ways.

Variety is not only the spice of life but diversifying your training methods will not only keep you mobile and fully functional, but injury free as well.

So, we’ve established that a varied exercise routine is beneficial, but which activities should we be doing?

The answer is any which complement each other, work the entire body and create balance. A good example would be to complement running with yoga. Running

is a brilliant cardiovascular exercise which primarily works the legs, but the repetitive nature could cause muscle imbalances, such as tight and over-lengthened hamstrings.

Yoga on the other hand, improves flexibility, range of movement through the joints and encourages symmetry throughout the body.

This brings me onto why I advocate Pilates.

Like yoga, it’s a mind-body discipline that encompasses controlled breath and a whole-body approach. It works with you, and over time, will create a stronger version of yourself. It gifts you with body awareness and the why and the how of body movement. This is the perfect mindbody connection.

I can already sense your excitement and how you can’t wait to sign up to the nearest Pilates class, but before you do that, let me clarify something. Pilates will not necessarily help you lose weight, and neither will it give you a six-pack. However, a sensible diet, cardiovascular exercise to raise your pulse coupled with resistance training might very well have that effect. Ultimately Pilates will make you a whole lot stronger, better at any other exercise you do, and it will address any postural issues, all without you realising, just with the guidance of a good Pilates teacher.

Here are the main 5 reasons why I think Pilates should be in your life:

1. There is way too much stress in our lives.

There is no better way to counteract the cortisol effects than with a mindful approach to our exercise. The breath element in Pilates induces a state of relaxation exactly where and when it’s needed, allowing any tension to disperse whilst performing the core strengthening exercises.

2. It will revolutionise the way you exercise.

When you first try Pilates, you might wonder why you’re not required to move quickly and work up a sweat. This is because Pilates is slow, in fact the slower you perform the exercises, the more effective they are.

Pilates is about the breath, controlled smooth movements and technique. It’s not about momentum or sloppy form. You engage and stabilise the core on the exhale while moving into the exercise.

3. You’ll wish you’d discovered it a lot sooner.

By the time most people try out their first class, it’s because their GP, chiropractor or physio has recommended it to them, which usually means they have sustained an injury, have issues with their back or

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4. You can do it every day.

Pilates is low-impact but this doesn’t mean that it’s ineffective. The beauty of the so-called ‘intelligent exercise’ is that you can practice it till the cows come home without over-training your body, but it’s intense enough to make positive differences to your

wellbeing. I highly recommend doing at least two hourly sessions per week but even one weekly class will yield benefits.

Joseph Pilates, the founder, used to say: “In 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 sessions you’ll see the difference and in 30 sessions you will have a whole new body.”

spinal rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement.

STOTT Pilates exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints. There are also more preparatory exercises and modifications to cater to many different body types and abilities.

5. There are too many benefits.

Here’s a summary of the benefits:

I teach the STOTT method and in the words of the provider, itincorporates modern exercise principles, including contemporary thinking about

• leaner muscles • improves postural problems • increases core strength, stability and peripheral mobility • helps prevent Injury

WITH MARY HUCKLE Mary Huckle is a personal trainer and Pilates instructor from Enfield, North London and is the founder/owner of Breakthrough Fitness. She is married with three children.

Her passion for anything health and fitness related has been a lifelong affair. After working in finance for many years she eventually changed her career path in 2003 when she left the world of finance to retrain as a fitness instructor and personal trainer at the YMCA. She is also qualified in prenatal, postnatal and children’s fitness. www.breakthroughfitness.co.uk Instagram @maryhuckle Facebook @breakthroughfitness1

• enhances functional fitness, ease of movement • balances strength & flexibility • heightens body awareness • no-impact, easy on the joints • can be customized to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes • complements other methods of exercise • improves performance in sports (running, golf, skiing etc.)

• improves balance, coordination and circulation.

If you’d like more information about Mary’s classes or private tuition, please email her at maryhuckle@gmail.com

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have other postural concerns.

Suffice to say that prevention is better than cure, so if you want to maintain a healthy spine, take up regular Pilates as soon as possible, before you actually need it.

Yoga Health & Wellbeing

26

for busy non-yogis We all know that yoga is supposedly good for us, just as all types of exercise.

Stretching, bending and pushing our bodies are all good things. Maybe you have looked up “yoga poses” on Instagram or Google and been overwhelmed by the vast number of half-naked images of super fit people standing on their heads? Did you lose all interest before even trying?

lives mean managing work, family, friends and our health. At the times that we can ‘rest’, our minds are still active with work, school life, shopping lists and even having conversations that haven’t taken place yet.

Some of us have lost the balance between movement and peace, yin and yang. So, let’s bring back the yin, and what better way than with Yin Yoga.

All types of yoga build on a few common pillars of practice: breath, movement and discipline. It’s not only the sweaty and physical types which make you feel great; it’s also about the space a regular dedicated practice provides you with, a space and time to just connect to you.

What exactly is Yin Yoga? It’s a slow, seated style of yoga. Yes, that’s right – you sit down through most of the session - and the practitioners hold each pose for a longer period. The time in each pose can be between one and five minutes, depending on the teacher and where you are in your practice. In Yin Yoga you look foryourperfect stretch, using props such a block or a bolster. You will be guided to listen to your body, relying on your own connection to yourself to find the space where you need to be, and therefore not abiding with the rules of alignment.

Yin Yoga teachers will guide you through a sequence with the focus being on your breath, staying present and tuning in to how the poses make you feel. You will be reminded to connect, leave all the stress off the mat, and listen to your body. How do you feel today? What do you need? As you remain still within the pose a space is created for your mind to calm down and for your own yin to expand, helping to restore the balance, to restore the yin and yang.

When we are balanced we feel better, and when we feel good we feel happy. So, if you’ve never tried yoga, or if you’d like to try a different type of yoga, give Yin Yoga a go.

Yin Yoga reaches far within your body, even to your connective tissue, also

You could say it’s the perfect yoga for the busy non-yogi.

Something equally special is the tranquilly that is experienced in Savasana or corpse pose (the final rest) and the excitement you feel when you go deeper in to your practice, learning to move with the breath or managing that pose you wanted to try for so long. These are a few of the reasons to why yoga is loved by millions of practitioners all around the world. Our busy

known as fascia, which not only acts as a communications network within the body, but also as a storage space. Our fascia retains memories and feelings, like an emotional memory card. So, when we stimulate our fascia we help release not only physical blockages but also emotional.

WITH MARIA LODETOFT USAI Maria is a creative writer and highly qualified Yin and Restorative Yoga teacher who works with movement, breath and sound vibrations to release emotional and physical blockages, helping us to live happier, healthier lives. Maria gained her Yin Yoga TT diploma in 2017 after studying with Sebastian Pucelle and Murielle Burellier who has trained directly with Paul and Suzee Grilley who are the initiators of Yin-Yoga. She later completed her Restorative Yoga TT in 2018 with Yoga London, one of London’s leading Yoga teacher academies. Her teaching style is genuine, traditional and spiritual and she vents her soul with regular yoga practice, writing and meditation. Her wish is that she can inspire you to do the same.

Contact Maria on 07821 401009, email: fortunatayoga@gmail.com or visit www.casafortunata.org

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Lifestyle

28

Lifestyle

5 Simple steps

to shift you from survive mode to thrive mode Noticed yourself getting caught up in the franticness of everyday life?

Life can be hectic leaving us feeling like we are constantly floundering in survival mode, tired, uninspired, overwhelmed and often a far cry from the best version of ourselves.

But it needn’t be that way.

1 Create mindful moments No matter who we are, we all have the same amount of time in a day, meaning we all should all be able to create a moment of calm, joy or splendour for ourselves.

Allowing yourself that guilt-free half an hour to chill with a cuppa and your favourite TV programme after you have taken the kids to school or to regroup and focus before work; building in a 10-minute meditation, taking some time to read a book or magazine for escapism or inspiration, getting out for an afternoon walk in nature or having a candlelit bath in the evening. There will always be a million and one things we could be doing to keep ourselves busy but ask yourself, does it all have to happen right now? The answer is probably no, and it certainly is if you want to be in ‘thrive’ mode.

So, identify your windows of opportunity and build in those little rituals and mindful moments of pure pleasure just for you.

2. Build in positive habits Being constantly busy means we can fall into negative habits or neglect to make time for positive ones. But if we think of ourselves as a sum of our habits then we can begin to realise just how important they are. For example, building regular exercise into your routine is not only beneficial for your body but also your mind and soul and it can have a huge impact on how you are feeling about life and your ability to cope with everything

3. Make time to disconnect Living in this interconnected digital age can make it seem like there is little opportunity for us to truly disconnect, should we let it. With a plethora of communication options available, there’s a perceived obligation to contact or respond to people instantaneously, or to check out their ‘fantastic’ lives through social media.

But our world can also bring with it guilt, paranoia and an unhealthy obsession with comparison. Start to pay attention to your relationships with people, your devices and the platforms through which you engage.

Notice how much time you are spending, how much energy they are taking and how they are making you feel. What or who could you or would you rather be saying no to?

Surrounding yourself with positive people could make a huge difference. You could identify times in the day where you could limit your device use, implementing healthy boundaries and creating moments to truly switch off and let you and your mind wind down, rest and recuperate. Because to be in ‘thrive’ mode, you will need to learn to look after yourself, utilise your mental bandwidth wisely and allow time to reconnect with you.

4. Learn to put your needs first As parents, we tend to put the needs of others before our own which although admirable may actually not only be to the detriment of our own needs but may also result in us not being the best that we could be for others like our partners, kids

5. Practise self-love Self-love means looking after number one in every sense – your own health, well-being and happiness but also the things you say to and believe to be true about yourself. So many of us say unkind things to ourselves like “I’m not good enough” - I’m not a good enough mum, dad, wife, husband, daughter, son, friend, colleague and so on. We’ll also say to ourselves: “I’m not clever”, “not attractive”, “I should be doing better”. We self-deprecate, self-punish, selfsabotage, compare, strive for sometimes unrealistic ideals of perfectionism and generally doubt our awesomeness. The things is, what we think, what we say and then what we do can manifest as the truth as self-fulfilling prophecies. And while this most certainly isn’t good for you – your self-confidence, self-esteem, self-acceptance and self-respect; just imagine what hearing those things could be doing for your impressionable child. Being the best version of you starts by being kind to you, adopting a positive mindset and empowering narratives for yourself. When you do this, and when you take all of the above steps, you will not only be the best role model, you will be truly thriving as the best, happiest and most fulfilled version of you.

Mikaela Jackson is a personal performance coach and the founder of She Almighty, which provides life, career and business coaching services and events for women. www.shealmighty.com

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Here are five simple steps to shift you from survive mode to thrive mode…

and colleagues. Recognising what the best version of you looks like, how you would like to be spending your time both personally and professionally, and then taking the action to support those things is extremely important and a necessity if you want to feel truly happy and fulfilled. Some of us get the purpose and satisfaction we need from being a parent but lots of us seek to find it and have impact elsewhere too. When you know what is truly important to you and then enjoy the steps, milestones and the journey of making the things you want – your dreams and your goals happen. When you are doing what you love, that is when you will be thriving.

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Are you dashing from pillar to post, with school drop-offs, sports practice, extracurricular activities, facilitating your children’s social lives – not to mention your own – and the million and one things you need to get done in any given day?

that is thrown at you. The same goes for your eating and drinking habits; if you have too much sugar, caffeine and find yourself reaching for the wine on a daily basis to feel more relaxed and less stressed, chances are you won’t be operating at your best, your mood will almost certainly be negatively affected and maintaining a healthy weight and mindset will be that much harder. And of course, sleep; we all know that sleep deprivation can take a massive toll. So start to notice the habits that aren’t serving you well and make the effort to remove or replace them with ones that make you feel happy, healthy, positive and ready to take on the world.

30 Lifestyle

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Are you the

Fisherman or the Banker?

By Jason Suttie

Lifestyle

34

Back in July I made the decision to exit a company I’d been building for 12 years. After I filled my mum in she reminded me of the parable of the Fisherman and the Banker. I’d first read it in The 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferris and the story goes: An American investment banker was taking a much-needed vacation in a small coastal Mexican village when a small boat with just one fisherman docked. The boat had several large, fresh fish in it.

The investment banker was impressed by the quality of the fish and asked the Mexican how long it took to catch them. The Mexican replied, “Only a little while.” The banker then asked why he didn’t stay out longer and catch more fish?

The Mexican fisherman replied he had enough to support his family’s immediate needs.

The American then asked “But what do you do with the rest of your time?”

The Mexican fisherman replied, “I sleep late, fish a little, play with my children, take siesta with my wife, stroll into the village each evening where I sip wine and play guitar with my amigos: I have a full and busy life, señor.”

The investment banker scoffed, “I am an Ivy League MBA, and I could help you. You could spend more time fishing and with the proceeds buy a bigger boat, and with the proceeds from the bigger boat you could buy several boats until eventually you would have a whole fleet of fishing boats. Instead of selling your catch to the middleman you could sell directly to the processor, eventually opening your own cannery. You could control the product, processing and distribution.”

how long will this all take?” To which the American replied, “15–20 years.”

“But what then?” asked the Mexican. The American laughed and said: “That’s the best part. When the time is right you would announce an IPO and sell your company stock to the public and become very rich. You could make millions.”

“Millions, señor? Then what?” To which the investment banker replied: “Then you would retire. You could move to a small coastal fishing village where you would sleep late, fish a little, play with your kids, take siesta with your wife, stroll to the village in the evenings where you could sip wine and play your guitar with your amigos.”

As is usually the case, parables over simplify in their aim to highlight a truth, or sometimes several truths. I say several because people often see these truths quite differently depending on their own situation.

What I think mum was trying to highlight was that the fisherman was able to do everything he wanted to now. Living a simple and enjoyable life within his means. He knew what he liked to do and he could live that life now.

And that’s how I probably first read it.

But that view changed a little when I thought about it again last week.

This past month has been a quite hectic as I tie up all the loose ends of my digital fundraising agency. I’ve had loads of conversations with clients, colleagues and associates.

Each conversation has helped me better understand my decision and each one has helped to clarify why I made it.

Then he added, “Of course, you would need to leave this small coastal fishing village and move to Mexico City where you would run your growing enterprise.”

My most recent take from the parable was that there are all different paths through life and it depends on who you are. And what’s actually most important is to recognise what makes you happy and live your own life.

The Mexican fisherman asked, “But señor,

When I think about the fisherman and

banker’s relative situations, I wonder. Was the fisherman able to see a simpler life because he hadn’t experienced what the banker had?

Was the fisherman better at understanding what made him happy? Did the Banker love building businesses, growing them and listing them more than the prospect of sitting on a pier fishing right now? Or had he just not realised that was an option?

Amongst other entrepreneur and agency types there is often a desire or drive to exit with a sale. So they aim to build an agency that they can sell off in five to 10 years and cash out. This is generally the sign of a successful business. And a successful business-person.

But is it any more successful than running a business that provides you the income you need to do what you want to do?

As I approach 40, and will shortly have no real job, life is about finding out what I really want to do going forward. Not looking at what other people are doing, or how they are doing it.

It’s very easy to just take opportunities that present themselves and live amongst others doing what they do.

I find that in life there are people like the Fisherman, and perhaps the Banker, who are clear on what they want and can just do that.

Then there are others who look at what other people are doing and live someone else’s life. And others still that just end up doing something, making a career out of it and not question where they’re heading. Until they retire.

I’m incredibly grateful that I’ve been ‘successful enough’ at 39.9 to be able to take this midcareer break and figure out what’s next.

Perhaps I’ll build a fishing business. Perhaps I’ll just buy a fishing rod.

Or perhaps I’ll just be searching for the next 25 years.

Follow Jason on Instagram @my1440.life

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21 621 86 o.uk 0203ottagefields.c ww w.c

21 621 86 co.u k 0203ttag efie lds. w w w.co

Party ready in 15 minutes

with these key products!

Hello my beautiful loves! With the hustle and bustle of the Christmas madness fast approaching there will no doubt be some fabulous Christmas parties and get-togethers in our diaries. I’m here to help you out on a few things so we’re party-ready in just 15 minutes.

Skincare

Skin Care is essential for good makeup. Use a good cleanser such as Clinique Take the Day Off Balm or my own personal favourite is the Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish Cleanser.

Use your own personal skincare regime prior to makeup application, that way the make up won’t sink into pores or fine lines.

If you are going to indulge in some alcoholic beverages over the festive period, drink lots of water and keep the skin well moisturised.

Powder me up

Lifestyle

36

Put my base on

Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation: this base is packed with vitamins and easy to apply, leaving your skin feeling light and fresh.

NYX Mineral Stick Foundation: think of this as a buildable coverage leaving you with a sheer glow.

No7 Stay Perfect Foundation: is for a more mature skin is absolutely amazing. It is very lightweight, smooth and has a subtle sheer glow.

To apply dot the foundation in a line down the middle of the face and if you don’t have access to brushes, use your fingers and work in circular motions outwards towards the hairline making sure to blend the product well into the jawline. The warmth of the fingers will blend the product well.

Just a quick tip. When choosing a foundation colour never run the product along the jawline. Ask a professional at the beauty counters to match your skin tone with the nearest shade. Never go darker with foundation, as it Oxidises. Therefore, if you choose a shade that’s too dark or red after a few hours the product will turn orange.

I’m Concealed

it contains caffeine to wake the under eye area and it doesn’t budge. Ideally the concealer should be at least a shade or two lighter than your base in order to ‘lift’ the area. Draw a triangle under the eye with the concealer. Next use your ring finger to blend the product outwards towards the hairline. Don’t take the concealer right up to the lower lashes and blend it towards outwards. Also cover the eyelids with concealer (I’ll explain why later on).

With the base ready I would recommend a good concealer to highlight the undereye area. Maybelline Age Rewind Eraser Concealer is a favourite of mine. In fact, I own all eight shades - yes I have issues!

This little gem has a roll on sponge and

Next set the face with a translucent powder.

I absolutely love No7 Translucent Powder as it doesn’t cause any backflash and comes in various shades. This stops any creasing and build up of oil. Who has room to carry a million brushes? I would use a good powder puff. Now nobody wants to look like they’ve been attacked by baby powder therefore a little trick to try is dab the powder puff in the powder and tap off any excess. Next roll the powder puff along the areas you wish to set using your fingers as the guide (usually under eyes and oily areas). This way you’re pressing the product on instead of brushing it on. It’s specific to the area you’re working on and you won’t need to keep reapplying.

I’ve got my eye on you

Moving on to eyes depending on the look you’d like I would invest in a good kohl eyeliner. Kohl liners blend very well, stay put and can genuinely emphasise the eyes without piling on the eyeshadows. I recommend Rimmel Soft Kohl Pencil. The secret to a kohl pencil is to warm up the tip. Draw a few lines with the pencil on the back of your hand. This will soften the kohl and make it easy to apply and blend.

Next depending on the look you want, a smokey eye never goes out of fashion.

Draw a few lines along the top outward lash line. Doesn’t have to be neat. Next take a q tip and gently blend the colour towards your crease line. As the eyelid has

concealer and has already been set with translucent powder you now already have an emphasised eye. Liner in the water line creates a sharp finished look however be weary, it can make the eye look smaller.

To enlarge small eyes, use a white or nude kohl liner inside the water line. Highlighter on the brow bone and inner corners of the eye will make the eyes appear to pop. Don’t forget lots of mascara!

Pucker up

With the lips, I always use a lip primer before any lip products. This allows the product to stay on for hours (especially if using the mistletoe) and stops the product from bleeding into the skin. Red lipstick is stunning at Christmas but if you’re not used to such a bold colour, I would use your ring finger to dab the red lipstick on to your lips. This will give your lips a more natural and blushed look. A bold red lip is a sure fire way to enter a party. Bourjois Liquid Lipstick 24hr hold has a vast array of shades and dries matte with a non dry velvety texture. Lipgloss just in the middle of the lips also creates the illusion of more plumped up lips. Who needs fillers eh.

Bronzed

Suck those cheeks in to emphasise the cheek bones and dust on some No7 Bronzing Pearls. Take the product along the cheekbones, temples and sides of the forehead in a C shape. Run the bronzer along the jawline, too, and anywhere where the sun would hit the face. Use this as a blush as well, to give you a summer glow all year round.

And finally...

To finish off the makeup I highly recommend a setting spray as it keeps all makeup in tact. Urban Decay and MAC have the best ones on the high street – Use this and never look back again.

Getting ready quickly isn’t as difficult as you may think. A few good products that can do multiple jobs is all you need. Accentuating your own beautiful features is the secret. Sometimes less truly means more. Take a few moments to observe the proportions of the face. Finding what works for your personality and features makes applying makeup very easy and quick.

Lastly I’d like to send everybody my love and warm wishes for a happy and healthy festive period. Thank you so much to everybody for continuous love and support. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

For more tricks and tips head over to Elena’s Instagram page @elsbellesmua

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By Neşe Schäffer-Halil I’m a mother of two boys, a model, food fanatic, fashion lover and a girl who loves to have fun.

I want you to wake up feeling fresh everyday with a buzz for life. I hope I can inspire you with some helpful tips in healthy feasting, wellbeing, motherhood, fabulous fashion and pretty much all the things we like to chat about over a cup of coffee! www.freshnesh.com Instagram: freshnesh_

Food Christmas Spiced Granola Christmas is a time for spices, mulled wine and mince pies. It’s easy to over indulge at this time of year, so I’ve got the perfect recipe with a festive twist to start your day the healthy way!

• Combine the coconut oil, maple syrup, molasses, and vanilla, pour over the oat mixture and stir making sure everything is evenly coated.

• Transfer the mixture on to the baking tray and spread it evenly around the tray.

• Bake in the oven for 25 – 30 minutes giving it a little stir every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking and avoid it over browning.

• Once cooked remove from the oven and allow it to cool before mixing in the second cup of coconut flakes, pistachios and dried cranberries.

• Serve with natural yoghurt and berries, sprinkle on your porridge or smoothies.

Fun

joining a choir apart from having fun. Here’s a summary from a post on our Facebook page:

Our lives are extremely busy these days. With work and family commitments we struggle to factor in time to have fun.

• • • • • • •

Yes, that’s right, you’re allowed to have fun when you become an adult.

Almost three years ago I decided to join a choir; and before you ask, no it’s not a church choir.

‘R’ Voices is a local choir based in Winchmore Hill. It was set up by Richard Forbes, who has worked in the music industry for 20 years, to bring together everyday people through singing. There are many health benefits to

singing strengthens the immune system singing is a workout singing improves your posture singing helps with sleep singing is natural anti-depressant singing improves mental alertness singing can widen your circle of friends.

If this sounds like something you’d like to try then come and join us for a sing along on Thursday 13 December 7.30pm at The Winchmore pub for our Christmas gig.

For more enquiries contact Rich on rvoiceschoir@gmail.com

Fashion Christmas is a busy time for the social calendar. Finding a key piece to work your wardrobe and save your bank account is a must. Investing in a sequin cami will bring you that Christmas sparkle for every occasion.

See my three ways to work this £16.99 Next black/silver cami that will take you from drinks with the girls, to the office party and of course to Christmas Day. Accessories from Déja Vu, Pearsons and New Look

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• Store in an airtight container or recycled jam jars to hand out as Christmas gifts.

cherubsmagazine.com

Ingredients • 4 cups jumbo oats • 2 cups coconut flakes • 1 cup sunflower seeds • 1 cup pumpkin seeds • 2 teaspoons ground ginger • 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg • 1⁄2 teaspoon Himalayan salt • a pinch of ground cloves • 2/3 cup coconut oil melted and cooled • 6 tablespoons pure maple syrup • 3 tablespoons unsulphured molasses • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 1 cup shelled pistachios • 1 cup unsweetened dried cranberries

Method • Pre-heat your oven to 180°C and prepare your baking tray with a sheet of parchment paper.

• In a large bowl, mix together the oats, seeds, 1 cup of coconut flakes, salt, and all the spices.

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The ultimate full body workout

It would be an understatement to say that Blaze, the ultimate body work out, has been an overwhelming success.

Blaze launched at David Lloyd Enfield on the 6th October 2018 and has had nothing but positive feedback with members calling it ‘the best class ever’ Blaze offers a new and exciting way to work out, taking place in our luxury boutique studio. Blaze is the ultimate full body workout, where no two sessions are the same. The interval training style with a combination of cardio, strength and combat is the best way to burn calories for the longest amount of time. Our 45 or 55-minute workouts are fun and fast-paced and will leave you burning calories between 24 and 36 hours after working out.

Throughout your Blaze workout, the MyZone heart rate belt will track your performance

on digital screens to keep track of your effort throughout the session. The belt monitors: heart rate, calories and time, which it then converts into Myzone effort points (MEPs), so it is unique to each individual.

Myzone can be used in the Blaze class, but it is not limited to this class. It can be used during any physical activity and tracked through the Myzone App allowing you to share and review your results through your smartphone. The app will also email monthly targets and let you know how much exercise you should be exerting, so you can get the best out of every workout.

Enfield held a launch party on 24 October with a host of celebrity faces, putting themselves through their paces and joining the Blaze Tribe. Joining us for this event was Melvin Odoom from Kiss FM and Former Arsenal Forward Jeremie Aliadiere. DJ and music producer Will Maden, accompanied

BECOME A MEMBER AND EXPERIENCE BLAZE Blaze is a David Lloyd exclusive. Enquire now and join the Tribe today!

by International Saxophone player Dax, hosted the event. Our members loved the atmosphere of the music pumping through the studio.

Odoom said: “The session was absolutely amazing, it was high intensity, it was versatile, there was variety, it was fun and my goodness the music was on-point.”

Aliadier agreed that it was “an incredible session.”

Blaze is dynamic new HIIT workout which combines mixed martial arts, intense cardio and strength training. The Blaze studio is home to a set of Woodway treadmills, a bespoke weight bench called the Blaze box, with suspended punch and core bags for mixed martial arts.

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When I grow up So, what exactly is a family hub?

A home-from-home for families to come together, a state-of-the-art play space for little ones made of natural materials, a healthy café and workspace for creative classes and events that support the local community.

Why did you start When I Grow Up?

Lifestyle

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Having moved back to High Barnet in May 2017 – this time with two children in tow – I started to appreciate the desperate need for a strong coffee, something delicious and nutritious to eat and to spend a couple of hours out of the house with the children.

I wanted to meet new friends where my energetic toddler was going to be inspired and stimulated, in the right way. I had a new baby so it needed to be clean and supportive, with enough space for buggies and excellent changing facilities. It’s become my goal to provide this for Barnet.

Meet Jo Merchant, the local mum behind When I Grow Up, a new project to open an innovative family hub in Barnet.

She’s created a buzz and already got an incredible team with local families and the community behind her and is now looking for corporate sponsors and investors.

and their kids. Grown Ups seem to really appreciate us designing a space with them in mind as much as the little ones. The When I Grow Up name applies to grownups and children alike!

How do we make this happen?

We’re offering the opportunity for major corporate sponsors and investors to join our crowd. As a sponsor, we will feature your logo in the hub which is in a prominent high street location in North London. We will also include your logo on our website, major press releases and social media coverage with access to 550 families and growing. We are also looking for major investors to partner with who will form part of our founders in return for a share in our business. If you would like to be part of this exciting start-up opening in Spring 2019 please get in touch for more information!

What are you most proud of?

Please visit our website and sign up to our mailing list to not miss out on exciting events we have planned.

When I Grow Up has brought the community together and people see it as a way of transforming the high street. We have an incredible and experienced team, who are all talented local parents, working closely with families who also want the best for Barnet

Website: www.whenigrowupclub.co.uk Email: hello@whenigrowupclub.co.uk Facebook: facebook.com/ whenigrowupclubuk Instagram: instagram.com/whenigrowupclub Twitter: twitter.com/whenigrowbarnet

What’s your parenting philosophy? By Sunayana Clark implemented with my son and with clients children with successful outcomes.

Create strong boundaries by clearly telling your child what the outcome will be if they DON’T do something. Knowing clearly what the boundaries are helps your child feel safe.

Sometimes I suggest counting to five. For example you want your child to go for a bath but they are dragging their heels. Tell them that you are going to count to five and if they are not in the bath by the time you count five, let them know there will be a consequence.

We never got to five and I still don’t know what the consequence would be.

1. Stop shouting. I have asked children, do you like it when your parents shout? The answer is always an emphatic No! I’ve also asked them if it motivates them - again No! If your child isn’t responding, ask them: “Do you want me to start shouting? Because I will”. That’s normally enough to get them moving.

Our children are mini humans with opinions and feelings. Parenting is hard and your buttons will be pushed but if you can give your child space to think, communicate their feelings and empower them in everyday situations, you will be amazed at the peace and harmony that imbues daily life.

I have found that children today are different to children born in the 70s, 80s or 90s.

These are some of the ideas that I have

2. Keep your word. If you have promised a reward or a punishment make sure you deliver it.

3. Teach them life skills and let them become independent. By the age of eight, my son could do his own laundry, iron his clothes and was a confident cook. He doesn’t do them regularly but I know that he can and more importantly so does he.

4. Allowing your children to take risks is important. It teaches them resilience,

how to cope and to create solutions. As parents/carers we can find this difficult and our instinct to protect them is strong.

Organisations like the Scout Association help to provide managed risk. For example, the risk scouts hiking across the countryside face is that they may get lost but as they have an experienced leader with them, its a managed risk.

5. Give them a choice. We all like to have a say in what we are doing and children are no different. I recently suggested to a client with an angry child, that they offer a bath or film night with the caveat that, if the child opted for the film, there would be no time for playing in the bath. Interestingly the child chose the bath.

In my work, I see teenagers and adults who experience anxiety. When we look back on their childhood, there is often an element of the above missing. So, what’s your philosophy for raising your child into a happy functioning adult?

Sunayana is a holistic therapist with over 20 years experience in helping teenagers and adults ease their anxiety so that they enjoy life again. For more information about her work please visit: www.feelgoodtreatments. co.uk or contact her to arrange your 30 minute telephone call.

Feelgood Treatments T: 07515 561514 www.feelgoodtreatments.co.uk

Christmas & New Year

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Christmas & New Year

Decorate your table with festive cheer this Christmas with Blue Jigsaw Create a simple centerpiece using small glass jars with candles /LEDs and weave foliage from the garden (make sure it’s not poisonous) add pine cones and battery powered fairy lights.

Place settings: involve the children by getting them to make a place settings for guests.

A really simple idea is to decorate luggage labels then tie them around napkins.

Checkout Pinterest for some fantastic ideas.

On this page we give you some hot tips on how to get that festive look.

Table gifts: a small token, gift wrapped and left at everyone place setting, is a great idea if you have young children who you may want to keep entertained at the table, why not wrap a small colouring book and pens or a small lego set . and popped in the broom cupboard after Christmas ready for the next big family meal.

Napkins: not just for Christmas but an essential part of dressing the table. Try folding napkins by using a good quality paper or cotton napkin. There’s lots of tutorials on Youtube. For fun we love the one where you can make a chicken from a napkin.

Candles look so magical at this time of year but can be dangerous especially with little ones. Why not use good LED look-alike candles in candle holders or in small lanterns – add them to the centre of the table to add drama.

Choose your colour theme, it doesn’t have to be the traditional red and green, don’t be afraid to be a little daring!

There’s nothing like a well-dressed table with a beautiful cloth. If you have young children your table can still look stylish take a look at our great range of wipe-clean Christmas tablecloths.

Don’t forget to protect your table with a heat-resistant table protector, with our storage tube option it can be rolled up

Don’t forget the crackers! Everyone loves crackers, they can be made as a craft project with children, or, if buying your crackers you can slip in additional gifts for guests. For the children little LEGO packs or trading cards, for adults try lottery scratch cards.

Telephone: 01707874759 Email: sales@bluejigsaw.com Web: www.bluejigsaw.co.uk Insagram: @bluejigsawhome

Advertising Feature

At Blue Jigsaw we specialise in table top products that include an extensive range of napkins, table covers, table runners, table protectors and candles. It is worth pointing out that if you invest in table top products for Christmas this year, then choosing your products wisely will give you year-round use of your purchase.

cherubsmagazine.com

If you’re lucky enough to be a guest for Christmas dinner this year then sit back and enjoy the festive season. If you are playing host then preparations need to be made.

For most families the Christmas dinner is the main food event and every host would love to the ability to create a million dollar table top setting.

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Gingerbread men Simple, tasty Gingerbread dough mix that you can make anytime of the year, especially Christmas time. A perfect recipe to keep the children entertained during the holidays and you can even have a best decorated gingerbread men competition.

The dough will keep in the fridge for at least 2 weeks, so you can get it out when you need to entertain the kids or bake up something quick for dessert or guests.

Other ideas – make Gingerbread women, gingerbread houses, hanging tree decorations, pretty much anything you like! This dough is super easy, you only need a large saucepan and a traditional wooden spoon.

STEVIE’S PANTRY

PA N T R Y

Christmas & New Year

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Stevie’s Pantry offers bespoke cakes, french macarons, biscuits and healthy treats! As a busy mum of three Stevie still finds time to create masterpieces from her very own kitchen and we were surprised to learn that this lovely North London mama taught herself all she needed to know. Follow this yummy mummy to see what amazing creations she produces while juggling mum life.

Instagram @steviespantry or Facebook @steviespantry

Step by step...

Step 1 Prepare your ingredients Step 2 Add into a large saucepan the sugar, butter, molasses (black treacle) and all of the spices and melt over a medium-low heat. Once melted, stir together to make sure everything is mixed, then bring to the boil. Remove from the heat once the mixture has reached boiling point.

Step 3 Take the saucepan off of the heat and beat in the bi-carbonate of soda with a whisk.

You will see the mixture multiply in size whilst the bicarbonate of soda is reacting with the rest of the mixture. Leave the mixture to cool slightly (approx 5/10 mins).

Step 4 Once the mixture has cooled slightly, sift in the flour and the salt in two batches and mix together with a wooden spoon. It will begin to form a dough like consistency.

Step 5 Add in the beaten egg to the mixture and continue to mix together with a wooden spoon until the egg has mostly mixed in.

Step 6 Turn out the dough onto a clean surface and knead the mixture together for a minute. Try not to over knead as this will cause the dough to spread out during

baking. Then wrap in cling film and allow to rest in the fridge for at least an hour before rolling the dough out.

I tend to use the classic gingerbread man decoration, which involves black, red and white icing.

Steps 7 & 8 Once the dough has chilled, prepare your work area.

I use number 2 round piping tips, so that I get a delicate, smooth line of piping. If you don’t have any piping tips, just cut the hole in your piping bag fairly small, so you can see if that’s the size thickness of the icing you would like, if not, you can make the hole slightly bigger.

I roll out my biscuit dough in between two sheets of parchment paper and I use spacers to make sure that my dough is rolled out to exactly the same thickness, so that the gingerbread men are all the same size and thickness.

If you want to roll out on to a floured surface instead, try to use the flour sparingly so that the dough does not absorb more flour than needed, as this will alter the taste and texture of the dough.

Steps 9 & 10 Once your dough is rolled out, use your cutter to cut out the shapes and place neatly onto a baking tray. Ensure that there is at least 1cm in between each gingerbread man, so that they do not stick together during baking. I use a silicone mat to bake all of my biscuits on, however using parchment paper is just as effective.

Steps 11 & 12 Once your gingerbread men have cooled, you are ready for the fun bit – to decorate them.

For the Royal Icing, I simply add water to a ready-made Royal Icing powder, which is so much easier than making your own. Make sure your consistency is not too runny.

Using a steady hand, pipe on the details, in any design you like. The kids will love this bit, and I’m sure they’ll make some wonderful, creative gingerbread men.

Step 13 Once you have piped on the details, set aside to dry or eat straight away.

If you make these gingerbread men, tag me in any social media so I can see your wonderful creations, I love seeing my recipes being used.

Happy Baking!

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Gingerbread Dough Recipe...

Preperation 10 mins & about 60 mins chill time Bake 180 degrees for about 15 mins depending on how powerful your oven is, or how crunchy you want your biscuits.

This mix makes around 30-35 Gingermen biscuits 7.5cm long

Ingredients (Pic 1)

cherubsmagazine.com

400g plain flour 200g unsalted butter 145g black treacle (or golden syrup) 200g soft dark brown sugar 1 large egg 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 4 teaspoon ground ginger 2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon salt

To advertise email info@cherubsmagazine.com

7 of the best Christmas markets in Britain

Twinkling lights, mulled wine, festive atmosphere and fabulous gifts – Britain’s Christmas markets are back this year bigger and better than ever before. Set in some of Britain’s loveliest cities, a visit to a Christmas market is equal parts shopping experience, equal parts destination discovery.

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Bath Christmas Market

South-west England 22 November – 9 December There’s a lovely historic-ambience-meetswinter-style at Bath Christmas Market, as more than 200 pop-up chalets set up on Bath’s pretty Georgian streets. Visitors can expect a real treasure trove of gifts to take home, whether that’s jewellery, homewares or decorations.

Last year more than 80% of stallholders came from Bath and south-west England, while 99% of all products were handmade in Britain or abroad with Fairtrade certification, so this is very much an eco-savvy shopping experience.

There’s always new stalls to explore as well as the perennial favourites, while you can fill empty bellies with a range of food sold from The Lodge in the heart of the market.

Also check out: Bath on Ice, the festive ice rink that runs from 16 November – 6 January 2019, and Glow in the Dark mini golf; a Christmas Trail at Prior Park Landscape Garden during December; and Shoppers’ Carols at Bath Abbey on various dates throughout the festive season.

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market

Central England 15 November – 23 December A firm favourite on Birmingham’s Christmas calendar, this yuletide market is the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria, and you can peruse all the lovely stalls right up until just before Christmas itself. Expect a fine range of traditional gifts and products on its 120 stalls and get into the German spirit while feasting on schnitzels, bratwursts, gluhwein and weissbeer. While you may be getting a flavour of Germany in the middle of Birmingham, a huge draw is its location in Victoria Square and the programme of live music that’s set to bring the party atmosphere to festive shopping.

Also check out: Birmingham Cathedral’s new outdoor market and Santa’s Grotto plus a full programme of music and film events during the festive season; outdoor skating at Ice Rink Birmingham plus the Big Wheel Experience from 15 November to 27 January 2019; a new event for 2018 (14 – 22 December), Enchanted Weston is an illuminated, afterdark experience in stunning parkland with live music and food.

Edinburgh Christmas Market

Scotland 16 November – 5 January Even if you pay a visit after Christmas you’ll

still get the chance to enjoy some festive treats as Edinburgh’s Christmas market continues – as part of Edinburgh’s Christmas, a six-week programme of entertainment in the city centre – until early January. While it’s not open Christmas Day it is open until 8pm on Christmas Eve, so bring plenty of bags to fill up with treats such as arts and crafts, foodie treats and traditional or bespoke Christmas products. The market itself takes place in East Princes Street Gardens, so you’re guaranteed some gorgeous views of Edinburgh Castle in the background and you’re close to some of the city’s major attractions.

Also check out: the big wheel and funfair rides on East Princes Street Gardens; performance company the multi awardwinning La Clique with its show La Clique Noel Part Deux; and 24 Hours of Advent, a real-life advent calendar where Edinburgh opens its doors from 1 – 24 December to showcase the city’s unique buildings.

Belfast Christmas Market

Northern Ireland 17 November – 22 December Set against the backdrop of one of the Northern Ireland capital’s most iconic buildings, Belfast City Hall, this yuletide market returns in 2018 with its enviable mix of artisan products and stalls groaning with tasty treats from international cuisines in its outdoor food court. Indulge in crepes, a hog roast, Gluhwein and continental cheeses but make it a truly Northern Irish experience and visit Lavery’s traditional Irish bar for some fantastic live music to really get you in the Christmas spirit.

Kids will love to take a ride on the vintage carousel or zip down the helter skelter as well as a trip to visit Santa in his magical grotto.

Also check out: Festive Fables at arts and culture hub The Mac (16 – 24 December) for festive storytelling; Christmas Wonderland at outdoor adventure centre The Jungle throughout December; and The Music Box at Belfast Waterfront, a festive music show celebrating its tenth anniversary this year.

South Bank Winter Festival

London 9 November – 27 December The popular Winter Market returns to London’s Southbank Centre, a seasonal pleasure that sits alongside a range of family shows and festive fun as the banks of the River Thames become a winter wonderland.

All along the South Bank are strings of decorations and cute wooden cabins lit up with fairy lights will sell Christmas gifts, from the quirky to the traditional, as well as mince pies, spiced cider and steaming mugs of mulled wine and hot chocolate. Global cuisines are available too, in the form of festive treats to gift or to eat there and then. Make sure you grab a selfie by the huge Christmas tree!

Also check out: as you’re in one of the

capital’s cultural hotspots, book onto one of the fantastic performances available at the Southbank Centre, from Christmas concerts and choir performances to the fairy tale spectacle of Rumpelstiltskin (13 December – 6 January 2019) and Belle Epoque (turn of the century) circus entertainment with Circus 1903 (19 December – 5 January 2019). There are also a number of workshops such as the Winter Knees Up, storytelling and music for all generations.

Cardiff Christmas Market

South Wales 15 November – 23 December Set across five streets of Cardiff’s pedestrianised city centre, Cardiff’s Christmas Market will be in full swing from midNovember, leaving plenty of time to find the perfect gift among its stalls. Its ethos is hosting stallholders selling original, handmade products and artists and crafts people selling their work. There are plenty of food and drink options available among the 200-plus stallholders and there’ll be music, festive lights, entertainment transforming the streets.

Also check out: Once you’ve shopped you’re in the perfect location to head over to Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland (15 November – 6 January), including an undercover ice rink and Santa’s grotto, which will be in the spectacular setting of Cardiff Castle; unique Santa tours at the Principality Stadium (dates TBC); and choose from four Christmas ballets at St David’s Hall (19 – 31 December).

Manchester Christmas Markets

North-West England 9 November – 22 December Not one, not two, not even three but TEN locations will be hosting Manchester’s award-winning Christmas markets, meaning wherever you are in the city you won’t be far from festive gifts and delicious food and drink stalls selling traditional bratwurst, hog roast, paella and much more. There will be more than 300 stalls and chalets across the city; follow the market trail as you pick up jewellery, toys, plants, bags, homeware and quirky, fun gifts. Each has its own character; as well as the traditional style market there will be a French market, a German market, a World Christmas market and a dedicated Arts & Crafts market.

Also check out: Winter Funland, which will be held at an indoor venue and includes fairground attractions, ice rink, circus and other fun performances (7 December – 1 January 2019); Manchester orchestra Halle’s Christmas music extravaganza at Bridgewater Hall (21 December); and visit Ice Village Manchester, the UK’s biggest-ever ice attraction which will include an Arctic bar, Santa’s grotto and an ice rink (9 November – 5 January 2019). www.visitbritain.com

A new musical version of Charles Dickens’ classic tale, set in the 1930s

21 Nov - 5 Jan For ages 5+

Box Office: 020 8292 9222

www.chickenshed.org.uk Registered charity no:1012369

Sponsored by

4 Steps

to making your own show-stopping wreath this Christmas Gather together the ingredients for your wreath (pic 1): a metal wreath frame, moss, wires for foliage, blue pine, eucalyptus, viburnum berries, thistle, lavender, pine cones, white twigs and ribbon.

Step 1

Add the moss to the wreath frame (pic 2), the moss provides moisture for the foliage while also protecting the door frame from the metal wire.

Step 2

Start adding the foliage step by step (pic 3) using reel wire to attach this to the frame.

Select which foliage to use based on how you want your wreath to look.

Half way through the wreath you’ll see it all starting to come together (pic 4), as you follow the same “pattern� for applying the foliage around the wreath.

Step 3

The pine cones are attached once all the other foliage is secured in place (pic 5). To attach the pine cones we use a thicker wire called stub wire to hold the pine cones in place and attach this through the metal frame.

We went for five clusters of three pine cones for our festive wreath (pic 6).

Step 4

Attach the ribbon to the top of the wreath (pic 7) to hang it on your door.

Festive wreaths can be made in all colours and anyone can make these at home. If you need any tools for creating your perfect wreath then please pop into Your London Florist where we stock the tools you need to get started. You can also use foliage from your own garden. If you need extra support on how to make your perfect festive wreath we also hold classes at our studio.

Your London Florist Cattlegate Road, London EN2 9DX 020 8362 1320 info@yourlondonflorist.co.uk www.yourlondonflorist.co.uk

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Photography by Tara Liondaris

The Snowman th 40 Celebration Christmas & New Year - Advertising Feature

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PENGUIN VENTURES (PART OF PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE) PARTNER WITH BACKYARD CINEMA FOR WORLD EXCLUSIVE CINEMATIC EXPERIENCE OF THE SNOWMAN™ • London’s independent themed cinema experts Backyard Cinema have partnered with Penguin Ventures to showcase The Snowman™ Experiencethis Christmas in London • To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the classic story known and loved by all, Backyard Cinema are creating an exclusive immersive multi-roomed and multisensory, cinematic adventure at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland • Backyard Cinema Presents: The Snowman™ Experience opens from • 22nd November 2018 - 6th January 2019. hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Ticket holders will experience the magic and wonder of The Snowman and journey through favourite scenes from this classic film in a whole new way. One of the UK’s best-loved family films will be brought to life as guests explore the multi-roomed, multi-sensory, cinematic adventure guaranteed to delight the entire family from 21st November.

were keen to create some outstanding new experiences that could be enjoyed by everyone. We are thrilled to be working with Backyard Cinema who have been an extraordinary partner and have enabled us to bring The Snowman to life in an entirely new way. We are certain that The Snowman Experience will create unforgettable memories for all generations of visitors to Winter Wonderland Festival this year”.

Dominic Davies, Founder & Creative Director, Backyard Cinema said: “When we started working on this project it became clear that watching the Snowman at Christmas was a huge tradition for the team so having the chance to work with such a popular character who is close to the hearts of so many people has been a real honour.

We wanted to give people the chance to enjoy this Christmas classic in a way they never could have imagined and so have tried to really challenge the

perception of what it means to watch The Snowman. Hopefully in doing so we have created a little bit of magic that everyone can believe in for a short while”.

Backyard Cinema’s The Snowman™ Experience will be open daily from 10am to 10pm. Tickets will be available to purchase online at hydeparkwinterwonderland.com, with prices starting at £12.95 for adult tickets, and £9.95 for children. Off-peak and peak tickets can also be purchased online, along with family package tickets. Customers will be able to purchase exclusive 40th anniversary The Snowman™ products at this attraction gift shop at Winter Wonderland.

Backyard Cinema Presents: The Snowman™Experience opens from 21st November - 6th December 2018.

Spread across 5000 square feet in the heart of the IMG-produced Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, The Snowman Experience will be made up of replica sets of the famous film. Boasting a giant 10 metre wide curved screen made up of 300 LED panels, guests will feel as if they’re flying beside The Snowman.

Thomas Merrington, Creative Director, Penguin Ventures said: “When we started planning for the Snowman 40th celebrations we © Snowman Enterprises Limited 2018. THE SNOWMAN™ Snowman Enterprises Limited

Happy ‘Noon’ Year’s Eve from your Editor

I’ve often found that trying to keep the children awake later than their bedtime (especially on New Year’s Eve) usually results in a cranky, moody child pulling down on your favourite knit causing an unnecessary scene. We literally have only a limited amount of nights in a year where it’s acceptable and excused to be sipping wine from a straw in a bottle and over indulging in far too much cheese. You need space and a kid free zone in order for these two necessities to be in harmony.

I Introduce you to ‘Noon Year’s Eve’ Grab the children, your neighbours kids and even the odd family member – if you must – and get the party started at 11am.

Supply everyone with the full works – party hats, sparkling water, nibbles, party poppers and all that jazz. When the clock strikes 11.59am start the countdown to Midday and celebrate till 1pm.

The kids have partied, everyone’s out of the house by 1.30 pm – including the family members. You’ll have plenty of time to clear up before the straw enters the bottle in just a few hours and the real party starts.

That way, you’re still sticking to bedtime routine and the only thing that will suffer is your head the next morning when it’s 2019 and you’re ‘alarm kids’ wake you up!

Bingo #winwin

Christmas & New Year

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Editor’s must-haves for your Noon party

Prep a balloon drop Who needs a ball drop when you can have a balloon drop in the living room. You can easily buy the kits on Amazon or you can make your own. Simply grab yourself some sparkly material or netting and fill with the confetti balloons. When the clock strikes midnight (or noon) everyone will love the surprise.

Tip - once the children are in bed, pin it back up ready for round two.

Multi-coloured confetti balloons - pack of 6

£2.49

www.cardfactory.co.uk

Build your own photo booth Use your camera or an iPad to set up your very own photo booth and capture all the mischief and fun from your party. Play with props and encourage the kiddies to get a bit silly while you snap away.

Dining room cocktail bar Turn your dining room table into a kids cocktail bar and designate one of the kids parents/guardians to be the barman for the afternoon. You’ll find some cool, yummy recipes in this book and if you add some fun straws and umbrellas (from ebay) you’ll be on your way to parent of the year award in no time.

New Year photo prop kit

Kiddie Cocktails

www.partydelights.co.uk

www.wordery.com

£6.99

Set resolutions together New year’s resolutions is one of the most popular traditions of all time. So why not create some with your family?

Teach the children the importance of setting goals for the year ahead and, if you dare ask them what they think you should do, I can just imagine some of the answers…

If this is the first time doing something like this altogether then keep it simple and set a doable and realistic amount of goals.

Stuck for some ideas? Here’s my top three.

1. No phones at the dinner table.

2. Plan a family holiday.

3. One night a week should be designated to a family night. Take it in turns to choose where/what to eat, a movie to watch or a game to play. Fun and making memories at the same time.

Enjoy!

£14.98

Making Christmas decorations with The Grandparent Hub

Can you believe Christmas is just around the corner? I don’t know about you, but here at The Grandparent Hub we feel like this year has flown by. Saying that though, we love Christmas, and can’t wait to start our festive baking and decorating with the grandchildren. There’s nothing quite like cosy days in, some festive tunes on the radio and being with the family to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Christmas & New Year

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One of the things we love to do with the grandchildren is making decorations for the tree and Ivona, one of the team here at The Grandparent Hub, loves to make salt dough Christmas decorations. These are great fun to make together and are also a great keepsake, so if there’s one thing you do with the grandchildren this year, this is it.

Here’s what you will need: • 120g flour (self-raising flour should not be used as it will cause the ornaments to bubble up while baking) • 60g salt • 125ml water (or more as needed) • non-toxic acrylic varnish • a rolling pin • a drinking straw • shaped cookie cutters • acrylic paints • paintbrush • glitter • ribbon And here’s what to do: 1. Ask the grandchildren to mix the flour and salt and then you can slowly add water to form a nice non-stick dough.

2. The grandchildren can then knead the dough for 10 minutes, you may need to be on stand-by to help out as they may get quite tired doing this.

3. Using the rolling pin you can roll out the dough.

4. Then using the cookie cutters, your grandchildren can then cut out the shapes they like. Be careful of any sharp edges.

5. Using a straw, pierce a hole in the top of each shape – this is where the ribbon will go through.

6. Place the shapes on a non-stick baking tray and place in the oven for around an hour on 100 degrees, which is gas mark ¼. Baking time will depend on the thickness of the dough.

7. We grandparents need to then take out the shapes from the oven and leave to cool.

8. Once they have cooled, the grandchildren can then use the paint and glitter to decorate – the acrylic nail varnish can be used to give the decorations a shine.

9. Once these have dried, thread the ribbon through the hole and then you can all hang it on the tree. You now have decorations for years to come.

Enjoy! www.thegrandparenthub.com

Special offer for readers of Cherubs Magazine The Grandparent Hub is a free website full of stories, ideas and information. They have also just launched the UK’s first membership service for grandparents where you will receive: • • • • •

a FREE 12-month tastecard+ worth £104.98. Giving you 50% off the food bill in over 6,500 restaurants, 40% off 350 cinema locations and much more. fantastic Grandparent Hub Offers from the UK’s leading brands. exclusive Grandparent Hub competitions. discounts and access to amazing days out in the UK. access to the My Hub Forum.

All for only £39.99 a year!

And, as a Cherubs magazine reader you will receive 10% off the annual price when you subscribe by 10 December 2018 and quote GPHCHERUBS18.

To find out more about membership and the terms & conditions visit: www.thegrandparenthub.com/grandparent-hub-membership

11-27 January 2019

Don’t miss North London’s most talked about Urban Dance Pantomime!

BOX OFFICE: 020 8807 6680 • ONLINE: www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Travel

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Travel

Top 10 Things to do in

Abu Dhabi with kids

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Take a guided tour of the mighty Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Even kids can’t fail to be impressed by its 82 domes, 1,048 columns and chandeliers gilded by 24-carat gold.

Cool off at Yas Waterworld, where more than 40 rides, slides and attractions, from a tots’ aqua playground to drop slides, mean fun for all ages. You can even surf and bodyboard here. For an alternative with younger kids, try Murjan Splash Park.

Advertising Feature

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Head out on a desert safari Abu Dhabi’s surrounding dunes were one of the main filming locations for Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens. Options vary by age but can include quad-biking, camel trekking and camel farm visits, dunebashing, sandboarding and even spending the night in a Bedouin tent.

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Go wild at Wadi Adventure, a manmade white-water rafting, kayaking, wakeboarding surfing venue worthy of a day’s fun. Also on-site is a giant swing, a high-ropes course and a climbing wall.

2

Ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Formula Rossa, at Ferrari World theme park. After hurtling along at a speed of up to 240km/h (150mph), you can also experience the world’s highest rollercoaster loop courtesy of the Flying Aces ride.

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With younger kids in tow, head for long-established Hili Fun City with its old-school rides including dodgems, mini-trains and a carousel.

Desert Safari

Yas Waterworld

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Go wildlife-spotting on the nature reserve of Sir Bani Yas Island, where the Arabian Wildlife Park breeds and rehabilitates animals at risk of extinction, including hyrax, ostrich, oryx, giraffes and hyenas. Guided nature and wildlife drives and walks, horse-riding and mountain-biking are all good ways to discover this spot.

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Visit the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, a veterinary facility where you can see birds being treated, tour a museum and watch free-flight displays, all giving you an insight into the traditional Emirate sport of falconry.

cherubsmagazine.com

Only a seven-hour flight from the UK, this emirate makes for a unique and thrilling holiday destination with kids. Pick from world-class theme parks, activity parks and water parks, desert excursions and incredible wildlife sightings – all in a setting of near-constant sun shining down on pristine beaches. We’ve shared our top picks for the best activities to do during your family holiday in Abu Dhabi.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

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Shop ’til you drop in Yas Mall, or head for the kids’ attractions. There’s Fun Works with its adventure rides, soft play, toddler playgrounds, Softair Battlezone and Lego: Pop-in and Play.

Go for a bike ride along the Corniche. This 8km stretch of waterfront includes a beach park with play areas and plenty of cafés and restaurants at which to refuel. www.travelcounsellors.co.uk

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Amazing Family Adventure Activities in the Caribbean

Travel - Advertising Feature

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Think of the Caribbean and you’ll probably think of white-sand beaches and lazy days spent hanging out by the pool with a cool drink in hand. But whichever of these gorgeous tropical islands you choose for your family holiday, there’s a growing array of fantastic activities to choose from. The following are some of our favourites for a variety of ages.

Treetop Adventure

Horseback River-Riding

Pirate Cruises

Go riding along the Dom Rep’s Anamuya River, in the shadow of a stunning mountain, then continue your appreciation of the nation’s lush landscape on a series of zipwires. At the end of your adventure you can reward yourself by tucking into a fabulous Dominican spread including fresh chocolate grown at the horse-riding ranch itself.

Four-hour boat-trips along this iconic island’s south and west coasts aboard the Jolly Roger 1 include rope-swinging and walking the plank, and there’s also calypso dancing and snorkelling to add to the fun. Alternatively, go for a snorkel at Folkestone Underwater Park & Museum with its recreational zone where you might spot turtles, sea anemones, sea lilies, corals, sponges and more on the in-shore reef.

Dominican Republic

St Lucia

Barbados

Head for the island’s Treetop Adventure Park to try out its 12 zip-wires of varying speeds, heights and lengths. Taking you hurtling through the tropical rainforest on a course lasting about four hours, they’re suitable for anyone 1.27m or taller. The friendly staff will take pictures and videos of you using your own phone. Also on-site are canopy walkways so you can see the glorious forest with its hummingbird population from above, plus a waterfall you can hike to.

River-Tubing Grenada

Suitable for children aged eight and up, this thrilling ride along the Balthazar River as it cuts a swathe through the tropical rainforest will have you spinning and swirling in the currents, spotting monkeys and other wildlife. You’ll stop for refreshing dips in natural pools along the way and chill out at the end over rum punch or glass of local fruit juice.

Climbing Dunn’s River Falls Jamaica

The limestone tiers of the Dunns River Falls – world-famous from the Bond movie Doctor No – comprise a 180m ascent of rainforest-shaded pools and shimmering cascades. Unique in the Caribbean, the falls constantly regenerate themselves due to the river depositing calcium carbonate. Come in swimming gear and jelly shoes if you want to climb them, and make a day out of it – there are a restaurant and food stalls at the site, along with a playground. For another taste of authentic local life, spend Saturday or Sunday at Hellshire Beach on the south coast, known for its fried-fish huts offering local seafood cooked in cast-iron Dutch pots over wood fires.

To find out more or to book your Caribbean family holiday, contact Eda your local Travel Counsellor today.

With the promise that all your holiday plans are in the safest possible hands.

Remember how easy it used to be to go on holiday?

When someone else took care of everything? At Travel Counsellors we believe this is the only way to sell travel – it’s such a personal thing that everybody deserves their very own personal expert.

At Travel Counsellors we’re all about you. So if you’re looking for a holiday to remember, contact me today.

Travel, tailor-made for you, with care.

Eda Ayyildiz Travel Counsellor 020 3393 5460 eda.ayyildiz@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.com/eda.ayyildiz

48 Hours in…

Travel

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the Peak District & Derbyshire

Spend two days combining city style with country walks, first-class restaurants with cultural treasures, all of which you’ll find in and around the UK’s first-ever national park, the Peak District, and the surrounding county of Derbyshire in North West England. The area boasts showstopping attractions, such as the stately home of Chatsworth and the fascinating World of Wedgwood, but look a little deeper and you’ll encounter a whole raft of must-do experiences.

Bakewell

Day One 09:00 GO UNDERGROUND

11:00 TREAT YOURSELF TO A SPA

13:00 ENJOY A TASTE OF THE PEAK DISTRICT Book in for lunch at the Columbine Restaurant, situated close to the Buxton Opera House, for delicious dishes created using produce from small local suppliers in the area; the provenance of ingredients is easily traceable. You’ll enjoy creations such as fish crumble tart and a variety of English cheese from its cheese board.

14:00 HIKE THROUGH GORGEOUS COUNTRYSIDE Drive 30 minutes from Buxton into the Stanage Edge

Return to Hathersage and enjoy an early evening meal at The Plough Inn, a 16th century inn located on the banks of the River Derwent. Feast on dishes such as feuilette of wood pigeon and pear or seared scallops, while vegans are well catered for with dishes such as kachoris (spiced lentil parcels) with kachumber salad.

20:00 MARVEL AT THE DARK SKIES Just above Hathersage is one of the national park’s most magnificent viewpoints – the charmingly named Surprise View. While it’s a great spot to watch the sun set, it’s also one of the official ‘Dark Skies’ stargazing spots, meaning on a clear night you can witness the Peak District skies lit up by millions of twinkling stars.

TIME TO CHECK IN There are a number of bed and breakfast options in the Hathersage area and you can also stay at The Plough Inn, which offers guests a choice of seven bedrooms and two shepherd huts. Equally charming is The George Hotel, a three-star hotel in Hathersage situated in an old coaching inn that dates back 500 years, and The Old Hall Hotel in Hope, five minutes from Hathersage, once a 16th-century coaching inn and now a cosy B&B.

Day Two 09:00 STEP BACK 500 YEARS You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to fabulous stately homes to visit in the Peak District and Derbyshire. A little outside the national park is Hardwick Hall, a National Trust-owned property that was created in the 1500s by one of the most powerful women of Elizabethan England, the remarkable ‘Bess of Hardwick’, and added to over the centuries by her descendants.

It’s a house that was built to impress and is said to have ‘more glass than wall.’ Its surrounding estate is also open every day for walks through glorious gardens and woodland trails.

11:00 CLIMB DIZZYING HEIGHTS Journey just 30 minutes from Hardwick Hall and board an alpine-style cable car to take you to the Heights of Abraham. These observation cars give you the opportunity to admire the breathtaking vistas of the Peak District and the Derwent Valley.

13:00 SAMPLE LOCAL DELICACIES Head back into the Peak District National Park to the pretty town of Bakewell for a spot of lunch at the quirkily decorated Lavender Tea Rooms. Charming period

15:00 EXPLORE THE NATIONAL PARK There are a myriad of wonderful walks you can do in the Peak District (and it’s a great way to walk off those pudding calories.), one of which is a walk around the Ladybower Reservoir. Here you’ll experience some of the most perfect countryside views, a mix of moorland and woodland with a stunning body of water. Bamford Edge is a good place to head to for beautiful vistas and the Y-shape of the reservoir means there are plenty of circular walking and cycling routes to choose from.

17:00 DISCOVER THE ‘PLAGUE’ VILLAGE Row upon row of pretty stone cottages adorned by beautiful gardens make up the picturesque village of Eyam. But what makes this Peak District village profoundly fascinating is its history as the ‘plague village’. When the plague struck the village in the 17th century, the disease spread rapidly and Eyam was put under quarantine for 14 months. A stroll around this pictureprefect English village will lead you to discover the plaques outside houses that state who died there during this terrible time, as well as the ‘Boundary Stone’. This had been set up to transport food and medicine into Eyam safely from the nearby uninfected village of Stoney Middleton.

20:00 FEAST ON FIRST-CLASS FOOD A short drive from Eyam is Baslow Hall, a gorgeous 100-year-old Grade II listed manor house. Within is the fine-dining restaurant Fischer’s at Baslow Hall, where Head Chef Rupert Rowley creates classical dishes using seasonal, British ingredients. Dine on produce such as Devon crab or Derbyshire pork jowl, hand-dived scallops or Creedy Carver duck from Devon.

Fischer’s at BaslowHall

TIME TO CHECK IN Once you’ve finished your meal at Fischer’s you can book in to stay at the luxury Baslow Hall, which offers 11 beautiful bedrooms; the Garden Rooms look out onto their own private walled courtyard garden, while there is also a romantic, secluded cottage close by, Cruck Barn. Also within the area is elegant The Peacock at Rowsley, which also boasts a fine-dining restaurant, and the Losehill Hotel & Spa, a high-end boutique hotel offering spa facilities with Peak District views. www.visitbritain.com

To advertise email info@cherubsmagazine.com

Head into the historic spa town of Buxton, where healing waters have been attracting visitors for centuries, and book in for an indulgent spa treatment. For contemporary treatments in a historic setting, try out The Devonshire Spa retreat, part of the resplendent Devonshire Dome (a Grade II listed building dating back to 1779).

Elsewhere, the town’s Palace Hotel is a fine example of Victorian architecture yet one that houses modern-day spa facilities.

And, come summer 2019, there will also be the choice of The Buxton Spa, in Buxton Natural Baths, which is being redeveloped as part of the Crescent Restoration project.

17:00 DINE IN A HISTORIC PUB

décor is enhanced by cute, mismatched traditional crockery, on which a range of sandwiches and cakes are served. But don’t forget to leave room for the sweet treat the town is renowned for – Bakewell pudding.

Plenty of places sell it but try The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop – it also offers pudding-making experiences.

cherubsmagazine.com

Part of the Peak District’s charm is its enviable landscapes and stunning geological make-up. Discover this in more depth by heading into Poole’s Cavern, an ancient natural limestone cavern with colossal illuminated rock-sculpted galleries to explore. Book onto a guided tour to understand the history of this magnificent underground scenery.

Peak District National Park to the village of Hathersage in the Hope Valley, and, from there, hike nine miles north to Stanage Edge. The gritstone edge stretches out to around four miles and delivers impressive views of the Dark Peak moorlands and across the valley. You may also recognise it from a scene in Pride & Prejudice, featuring Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet.

Winter Activities

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Winter Activities

Top things to do this winter with our favourites!

We’ve rounded up our most loved, local #instaparents to bring you the best things to do in your area!

HERTFORDSHIRE Hertfordshire is a lovely county with a wide range of activities, markets and events happening across the winter period. These are some of Aimee’s top picks which she has attended and loved in the past. Enjoy!

Christmas Experiences

Santa Spectacular - Willows Farm St Albans AL4 0PF 21 Nov-24 Dec There is so much to do at Santa Spectacular with a full day out of indoor and outdoor fun including meeting Santa in his glorious grotto and receiving a golden key to his toy shop, attending Elf Academy, saying hello to Santa’s reindeer and so much more.

Adults £22, Child (2+) £38 (£8 discount available when booking online).

Christmas Markets Christmas Market at Lee Valley White Water Centre Waltham Cross, EN9 1AB 16 Dec-18 Dec Soak up the lights and laughs at this Christmas Market. Browse the boulevard of chalets glistening with trinkets and presents that will make your special someone’s Christmas all the more jolly.

Free to enter. £5 to see Santa.

Etsy Made Local - Christmas Market Allum Manor and Hall, Borehamwood, WD6 3PJ 1 Dec After the success of last year’s market Etsy

The Santa Show - Hertford Theatre ​Hertford SG14 1PS 22-24 Dec This exciting brand new sing along interactive show is perfect for two to fiveyear-olds and their families. Children will also get the chance to meet Santa and receive their very own Christmas present.

Adults £8, Child £11, Family £36 (four people, at least one under 16yrs).

Santa Claus and the Magical Christmas Journey Watford Colosseum, Watford, WD17 3JN 1-24 Dec A Christmas adventure with songs, stories, a meet-and-greet with Santa and a free gift. A truly unforgettable experience which includes the magical moment when snowflakes fall over the audience – a guaranteed white Christmas at every show!

Adult £16.50, Child £15.50, Family £54.00 (see website for off-peak prices).

BARNET Stephanie has all of these on her ‘to do’ list this Winter – the Borough of Barnet is vast and she has hand picked some of her favourite festive things to do this year.

Stephanie @barnet_mummy

Winter Lights Stephen’s House and Gardens, Finchley, London N3 3QE 15 Dec 16:30–19:30 Come and take a Christmassy walk around the lit-up gardens.

The cafe will be open to try some yummy hot chocolate or mulled wine.

Entry £3 per person/child (under 2 years free).

Santa’s grotto at Brent Cross London, NW4 3FP 15 Nov-24 Dec Open during shopping centre hours Free however you can pre-book a slot for £1 per child Each child receives a free gift.

Christmas Markets Barnet Christmas Fayre, High Barnet Barnet EN5 2 Dec 12pm-5pm Includes: parade, stalls, craft, theatre show at The Bull theatre and more.

Free to attend and for all ages.

East Barnet village Community Christmas Fair East Barnet Village 8 Dec 12pm-4pm Includes: stalls, face painting, carriage ride, hog roast, dancers, craft demos bouncy castle and more...

Free to attend.

Christmas Shows Christmas Experiences Stephen’s House and Gardens, Finchley Finchley, London N3 3QE 9 Dec 11:30-13:00 & 14:00-15:30

Arts Depot - Christmas shows 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 0GA The Night Before Christmas 1 Dec-2 Dec £7-£10 3+ The Gruffalo’s Child 4 Dec-6 Jan £10-£16 3+ Continued overleaf...

To advertise email info@cherubsmagazine.com

Van Hage - Skate Great Amwell SG12 9RP 15 Nov-7 Jan Van Hage’s real ice rink is back for its 11th year. Experience the magic of ice skating with this under cover rink.

Adults £6 - £14.50, Child £6 - £11 (prices vary depending on times).

Christmas Shows

“Get Cracking” free drop-in workshop.

Make a traditional Christmas cracker, write your letter to Father Christmas with one of their quills and seal it with wax. Materials provided to make the cracker. Bring along a small gift to put in your cracker if you like. £1 per child per cracker.

cherubsmagazine.com

Aimee Hart @hart_at_home

have moved to a much bigger venue and have over 40 talented designers, makers and sellers for you to browse the stalls of so come along and buy local this Christmas and give your friends and family something unique this festive season. Free to enter.

...continued from previous page

ENFIELD Kat knows exactly what she will be doing this festive season... join her at some of these fabulous events.

Kat @the_enfield_explorer

Christmas Experiences

Winter Activities

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Your London Florist - Christmas table arrangement class.

Cattlegate Road, EN2 9DX, London 10 Dec 6pm-9pm Using latest trends and best quality flowers, this class will teach you how to make a memorable arrangement this Christmas. £70.

The Winchmore Pub - The Positive Bean Christmas special N21 1OA 22 Dec 10:30am A fun-filled Christmas Singalong with Simmy, a performer from the international stage show Stomp.

Child £10, siblings £2.50, under six months £5.

Tinker Tailor - wreath-making workshop 13 Queen Anne’s Place, EN1 2QB 9 Dec Lisa Furnell from Cabbage White Flowers will be teaching you how to make a beautiful festive wreath. £45 Springtime Nurseries Santa’s Grotto Cattlegate Road, Crews Hill, Enfield, Middlesex EN2 9EE Christmas wonderland!

Opens 17 Nov With a Christmas grotto, real reindeers, a giant snow globe and an indoor skating rink, Springtime Nurseries is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Grotto is £10 per child on the day, £12.50 when pre-booked, £2 per accompanying adult.

Christmas Markets Forty Hall - Christmas Fayre Enfield EN2 9HA 1-2 Dec 11am-4pm Forty Hall and its historic courtyard will be filled with a wide variety of stalls selling wonderful seasonal gifts. There will also be a choir, mulled wine and festive food – a great way to begin the run up to Christmas.

Free entry.

Myddelton House Gardens Enfield EN2 9HG The WIllow Christmas Fair 9 Dec 10am-4pm

Join them in this historic house for a mind, body and spirit Christmas fair. Indulge yourself!

Free entry.

Christmas Shows The Millfield Theatre - Beauty and the Beast Panto Silver St, Edmonton, London N18 1PJ 29 Nov-6 Jan Various times £16.50.

HACKNEY, CAMDEN & CENTRAL LONDON There are so many things to do in these different boroughs that Max has found it difficult to choose… so she will be attending them all.

Max @struggleofthejuggle

Christmas Experiences Kenwood House Meets Santa Hampstead Ln, Highgate, NW3 7JR December weekends Every weekend in December children can come along to meet Santa and collect a small gift. Booking is essential www.english-heritage.org.uk Child £10.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park Hyde Park 22 Nov-6 Jan London’s biggest and most popular Christmas experience. From ice skating, fairground rides, stalls brimming with toys and sweets, festive shows, an observation wheel and more. You wouldn’t want to miss it!

Wintertime at Southbank Centre The Queen’s Walk 9 Nov-5 Jan Enjoy wintry activities, including a Christmas market, festive shows and seasonal food along the river.

Christmas Markets Stoke Newington Town Hall Christmas Market Church Street, N16 0JR 8 Dec 10am-5pm Stoke Newington’s much loved Christmas market is a traditional indoor market which boasts a range of fantastic retailers, offering exquisite gifts for loved ones or those last minute stocking fillers for the kids.

A Christmas Vintage Village Cecil Sharp House, Camden NW1 2 Dec 11am-4pm An afternoon of vintage and mid-century inspired shopping. Just in time for Christmas. £3 Entry under 15’s free.

Christmas Shows Finding Santa - Little Angel Theatre Dagmar Passage, N1 2DN 16 Nov-24 Dec Ever wondered how letters for Santa Claus get to the North Pole? Little Angel Theatre brings to life a magical puppetry in this brand new interactive Christmas adventure for all the family.

Adult £13.50, Child £11.50 (age 1–15) and Concessions. Friday Fives: all tickets £5 at 5pm on Fridays.

HARINGEY Our ethical mummy will enjoy wandering around her local borough this festive season with all these exciting things to do.

Karen @n4mummy

Christmas Experiences Santa in The Mall Wood Green Shopping City, N22 1-24 Dec The Mall will be donating £1 (per visit) to their chosen charity - Crutch Haringey £5 per child.

Christmas Crafts Hornsey Library, N8 9JA 4 Dec 3:30pm-4:30pm Come along and have fun making some paper cone Christmas decorations.

Free.

Christmas Markets Etsy Made Local Christmas Market Location 1: Tottenham Town Hall, Town Hall Approach Road, N15 4RY 1 Dec 11am-4:30pm Location 2: The Beehive Pub, Stoneleigh Road, N17 8BQ (next to Halifax Bank) 2 Dec 12pm-6pm Free.

Christmas Craft Market Crouch End 2 Dec 10-5pm Christmas tree lights on at 5pm Space outside Hornsey Town Hall.

Christmas Shows The Gingerbread Man (Age 3+) Jackson’s Lane (North London’s Creative Space) 1-24 Dec £10 per ticket.

The Elves and The Shoemaker Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End London, N8 8PL 1 & 8 Dec £8 per ticket

Where prices or dates are quoted they are correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change. Please check with the venue before making your way.

Reading with your children this Winter When Sevim met her local Usborne Books seller Kerry, they spoke of nothing more than the importance of reading with your young and the benefits it will have for the rest of their lives. What better activity to do this season than going on different adventures from the comfort of your own home.

Lizard in a blizzard (3+)

By Lesley Sims Illustration David Semple

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£5.99

Lizard has decided to make a snow machine. The trouble is, once it starts to snow, he can’t make it stop... This entertaining story for beginner readers has simple rhyming text and stylish illustrations throughout. A delight to share with very young children, and with parents’ notes on phonics at the back of the book.

Trouble in New York (6+)

By Jennifer Gray Illustration Elisa Paganelli

£5.99

Meet Ermine. She may be small but she’s on a BIG journey around the world.

Ermine the Determined is off to explore NEW YORK. She can’t wait to visit Central Park Zoo, ride in a yellow taxi, and zoooom to the top of the Rockefeller building!

But when her suitcase is switched, Ermine finds some robbers are hot on her tail…

The Train to Impossible Places (9+)

By P.G.Bell Illustration Flavia Sorrentino

The Extinction Trials (12+)

S.M.Wilson

£12.99

£7.99

All aboard for a magical journey...When Suzy hears a strange rattling noise in the middle of the night, she creeps downstairs to find a train roaring through her house. But this is no ordinary train. This is the magical delivery express for The Union of Impossible Places.

Betrayal. Sacrifice. Survival.

Welcome to The Extinction Trials... In Stormchaser and Lincoln’s ruined world, the only way to survive is to risk everything. To face a contest more dangerous than anyone can imagine. And they will do anything to win. But in a land full of monsters – human and reptilian – they can’t afford to trust anyone. Perhaps not even each other…

We also loved these activity packs…

Finger printing animals £3.99

Unicorns colouring book with rub-down transfers £2.99

Diggers stencil book £8.99

Your Local Usborne Seller - Kerry Okoluko Mobile: 0781 550 2593. Facebook page: Shining Stars Bookshop. Email: shiningstarsbookshop@yahoo.com Browse the catalogue at www.usbornebooksathome.co.uk

50 things to do on a car journey £6.99

Christmas Tales A fun and festive show for children up to 7 years!

5 - 30 Dec Box Office: 020 8292 9222

www.chickenshed.org.uk Registered charity no:1012369

PERFORMING ARTS AT CHICKENSHED Study Level 3, Foundation Degree and BA (Top-Up) in a professional working theatre

020 8216 2741 | Chickenshed, London N14

www.chickenshed.org.uk/courses The Foundation Degree and BA programme is quality assured by Middlesex University, from whom you will receive an award upon successful completion.

Does your child take part in a sporting activity?

If not, why?

‘My child is too young’ ‘They aren’t interested in sports’

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‘It’s too cold outside’ You might find yourself giving one of the above answers when posed that same question – but are we stunting the potential of our children by not encouraging them to get active from a young age?

Good habits are best started early. A child aged four is instinctively active – develop this instinct. But most importantly, make sure that it is in an environment that allows them to thrive, whether that be with you in a park or in a structured set-up.

Sport has many benefits, more-so than just staying active and keeping fit. Everyday parental struggles can be conquered by introducing sport to our childrens’ lives and we are going to explore how, and why.

Concentration and focus As children become physically fitter, their energy will soar. Their stress levels and fatigue

levels will dramatically be reduced and their concentration and focus will improve.

Many children find it hard to concentrate for even a short period of time, particularly if the activity they’re working on doesn’t engage them, or if there are lots of distractions.

Introducing them to a sport that is fun will teach them how to stay concentrated for a longer period of time without it feeling like a chore.

Boosting self-esteem Children of today are facing more and more mental battles, especially with the prominence of social media in today’s world.

Sport is now my life. I started playing when I was under the age of five and have been playing or coaching ever since. The life skills and confidence it has given me makes me forever in debt to my parents for introducing me to it at a young age. But this is not about me, a wider issue within society needs to be addressed and sport can help to do this.

A recent poll by Sky Academy found that a third of young people are not confident,

while two thirds of girls said that their level of confidence fluctuates. We all need to help our young people feel confident and ready to take on the challenges life will inevitably throw at them.

A mix of having great coaches, finding a sport that they enjoy and the camaraderie that comes with it all will inevitably lead to your child’s self-esteem increasing. Before you know it, they will be waking you up at the crack of dawn, fully dressed and asking you if it’s time to leave yet!

Pro Elite Football Academy (Enfield, Southgate and Cockfosters) and Pro:Direct Academy Tots (nationwide) – offer fun-filled classes for children as young as 18 months.

Follow our journey: Instagram: @ProElite.Academy and @ProDirectAcademyTots Facebook: /ProEliteFA & /ProDirectAcademyTots www.efacademy.co.uk

ALI MUSTAFA Director of Pro Elite Football Academy & Pro:Direct Academy Tots

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