EDUCATION • HEALTH • WELLBEING • LIVING • BEAUTY • STYLE • TRAVEL MAGAZINE Inspiring Everyday Family Lifecherubsmagazine.com Autumn 2022 • Issue 17 Making a Splashis A umn Tips and Techniques For the New School Year What’s On From Parks to After Darks
THE THEATRELIVESHOW 1996.BBC©&logo™BBCStudios.BBCbyLicensed2014,LtdAKAStudio©&logos™characterandDUGGEE™HEY Hey Duggee – The Live Theatre Show is produced by Cuffe & Taylor and Kenny Wax Family Entertainment under license from BBC Studios LONDON SOUTHBANK CENTRE‘S ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL 14 DEC - 8 JAN TICKETS ON SALE NOW | HEYDUGGEELIVE.COM
EDITOR IN CHIEF Contents Autumn 2022 • Issue 17 Feaures 14 Baby Room Project 24 The Flamingo Family 34 Let’s Talk About Dyscalculia 38 Just Breathe In is ed i 4 What’s On This Autumn 10 Hungry Little Bakers 16 Stress Management 42 The Accidental Landlord A ta e ... 18 Style 25 Education 36 Health & Wellbeing 39 Living Style Editor: Antonia Sanchez–Toomey Healthy Food Editor: Christianna Karaolis Designer: Chris Webb Printers: The Roma Group 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. To advertise in our next issue email info@cherubsmagazine.comorcall02081543664 Follow us on social media for regular updates @CherubsMagazine Sev x cherubsmagazine.com Cherubs Magazine
Enjoy the leaves changing colour, take long walks with people that feed your soul and, as always, take a moment for you.
As we enter this colourful, crisp season, let’s embrace and welcome change with open arms. Quite often, many of us become complacent and instead of taking the leap and jumping at certain opportunities we remain in the ‘safe zone’. Don’t wait till NYE to make a resolution; if your heart is telling you something, listen to it. You just never know what may be in store for you on the other end.
I’m sure you will all agree that it was quite an extraordinary summer. In fact, 2022 has been a bizarre one both for myself and many I have crossed paths with recently.
Catch
There is so much to look forward to at this time of the year. I believe it’s only a matter of weeks before we start hearing the jingle tunes down the aisles of our favourite supermarket.
However, don’t think that far ahead yet. Enjoy dressing your children in the most ridiculous outfits for Halloween, round up a group of friends and “ooh” and “ahh“ at a local fireworks display - and make sure to jump in every muddy puddle!
up on past issues of Cherubs Magazine online at
Peace, love and pumpkin pies,
Are you ready to experience the UK’s premier Halloween event of the year? Whether you’re a true fear-seeker or looking for some thrills to fuel your chaotic Halloween energy – this is an event you don’t want to miss!
Where To Visit This Autumn
October is the best time of year to visit a deer park because it’s the start of rutting season. Rutting is part of a deer’s mating rituals as the males try to impress the females, but for us, it means the chance to see deers locking antlers in a headto-head battle. Visit Richmond Park, a National Nature Reserve with over 630 red and fallow deer roaming freely. The deer have played a major role in the park’s history and have shaped the landscape too.
020 8154 36644 | Cherubs Magazine
A Deer Park
Firework Champions
Photo credit: Cathy Cooper
When: October Where: Richmond Park, Richmond
Fright Night
Age: 13+
When: 1 - 31 Oct 2022
WHAT’S ON
Where: Hatfield Park
When: 24 Sep 2022
Plan Ahead - Thorpe Park
In the centre of Hatfield Park – 4 great firework displays! Three of the UK’s best firework companies compete against each other with a 10-minute firework display choreographed to music followed by a larger finale display that isn’t part of the competition. Gates open at 4pm.
The world’s oldest original model village, which opened for the first time in 1929. With over 90 years of history, a huge model railway, 1.5 acres of well kept gardens and finely detailed model buildings, Bekonscot is a great day out for everyone.
When: 5 - 7 Oct 2022
Head down to London’s famous river for the Totally Thames Festival: Enjoy a whole month of exciting exhibitions, walks, talks and more.
Where: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
After hours at the London Transport Museum is back on selected Friday evenings. This is a chance for adults to explore the Museum in the evening, enjoy a drink at the bar, take part in fun activities, and learn from expert speakers. Each event has a different theme linked to our collections or temporary exhibitions, and a packed programme of talks, workshops, and activities. Check individual event listings for more details.
When: Various dates
Totally Thames
WHAT’S ON
Battersea Park Children’s Zoo
Battersea Park Children’s Zoo is the perfect place for little explorers! With conservation and education at its heart, this much-loved family park is home to over 100 amazing animals from around the world.
When: 1 - 30 Sep 2022
Hogwarts After Dark
SomethingForTheAdults
cherubsmagazine.com Cherubs Magazine | 5
When: Open 7 days a week until 30 Oct 2022
Museum Lates
Follow in the footsteps of the world’s most famous wizard at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter: This Halloween, explore the mysterious world of dark magic where loyal followers of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named will be prowling around the exhibit. 26 Sep-6 Nov. For a unique experience, sign up for a bewitching evening at ‘Hogwarts After Dark’. Dates below.
Bekonscot Model Village & Railway
IntoSpringingTheGreatOutdoorsWithJasonSuttie@thesuttie 020 8154 3664 WHAT’S ON 6 | Cherubs Magazine
It might be because I love the countryside, or maybe it’s my Aussie genes, that I drag my family outdoors all year round. And in almost any weather. Sometimes we only have a couple of hours and other times we spend a whole day overdosing on fresh air. The tired tantrums on the way home are almost bearable when we’ve spent the day together getting proper dirty and making
Dirt Factor:
Far too often we’ve spent ages deciding on where to go when we want to head out and get some fresh air. So, we’ve made a ‘Trip Jar’. In the jar we’ve written down all the places we like to visit on a piece of paper. And when we think of somewhere that might be fun to visit we stick it in the jar because I can never think of anywhere different to go under pressure! Then all we do is pick a piece of paper out of the bowl, pack what we need, and jump in the car.
So, I thought I’d share some of our favourite places to experience the Great British Outdoors. I’ve also given them a ranking of how dirty they can get!
Forty Hall Estate
Formemories.me,after
Thorndon Country Park - Gruffalo trail visitparks.co.uk/education/gruffalo-trail
Dirt Factor:
We usually get the dirtiest at National Trust properties - running through fields, riding our bikes or building dens. And we’re almost always worn out after a full day in the wild. Each property has different family activities throughout the year that kids love. The most cost-effective way to visit the National Trust regularly is to sign up for the year, as individual visits are quite expensive. Many of them have well-priced cafés and in summer we sometimes take a picnic, which helps keep the cost down.
When we’ve got a full day free, National Trust properties are our default option. For Christmas, after my son was born, my Mum bought us a yearly subscription to the National Trust. She’s now done this every year since, because we love it so much. There are a good range of properties about an hour’s drive away, which makes them a full day out.
fortyhallestate.co.uk
discovered loads of ‘Love on the Rocks’ rocks here for those who are collectors.
One of our highlights is the 100 Aker Wood, the home of Pooh Bear and his friends. There’s a bridge to play Pooh Sticks off; you can visit Owl’s House and Pooh corner and even see if there are any trapped heffalumps. Last time we visited we even saw Pooh wandering around the park with treats for the kiddies.
cherubsmagazine.com Cherubs Magazine | 7
The best part of the outdoors is that kids can be kids and go a little bit feral. And when they’ve spent all week in structured learning at school or nursery this is important. Our kids love clearing out deep puddles with an overenthusiastic jump, something that’s not encouraged at school.
WHAT’S ON
Outside the Water Centre there are miles and miles of trails alongside canals and through wetlands. This is a favourite of ours for getting out on our bikes as it’s nice and flat. We can ride for miles and then when we’re done we head back to the White Water Centre and grab something nice from the café.
Aldenham Country Park aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk
Dirt Factor:
Dirt Factor:
spending a whole week at a computer, the sights, smells and sounds of the countryside are rejuvenating. It also helps my brain to change gear and really switch off - something that’s great for mental health.
If we just need to blow off some steam and get outside without too much planning we head up to Forty Hall in Enfield. It’s got something for all levels of adventurers. There’s a nice walled garden and lawn area which is perfect for wandering and picnicking in the summer. We’ve also
Dirt Factor:
It’s nice to have a legacy from the 2012 London Olympics on our doorstep with the Lee Valley White Water Centre. When there aren’t competitions on we often stand on the banks and watch people attempt to navigate the rapids. It can be quite entertaining, especially when people fall in! They also have one of the largest sand pits in the area with an outdoor café to keep parents and kids happy.
I don’t know many kids who haven’t gone through a Gruffalo phase and Thorndon Park has a great trail that follows the story of the little brown mouse. We first visited when Sebastian was two and he already knew the story so would get excited to see the next character as we followed the guided map. Knowing what was next was a great incentive to keep him entertained around the trail.
Time Tip
Lee Valley and White Water Centre and Country Park
National Trust nationaltrust.org.uk
Jason’s Tips!
Aldenham Country Park in Elstree has 100 acres of countryside with great scenery, a lake and a children’s farm. The play area caters for all different ages and there’s also a purpose-built playground for children with special needs.
For the more adventurous, there’s the woodland playground, medieval fishing pond and a stream that runs along the bottom of the property.
The Marriage Portrait
Prom Night, 1982. By the end of the night, Emily Vaughn will be dead because of a secret. Nearly forty years later, US Marshal Andrea Oliver receives her first assignment: to protect a judge receiving death threats. But Andrea’s real focus isn’t the judge - it’s Emily Vaughn. Ever since she first heard Emily’s name a year ago, she’s been haunted by her brutal death. Nobody was ever convicted - her friends closed ranks, her family shut themselves off in their grief, the town moved on - so the killer is still out there. But now Andrea has a chance to find out what really happened.
Ten Years
By Pernille Hughes HarperCollins £8.99
By Karin Slaughter HarperCollins £8.99
Carrie Soto is Back
From the author of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo and Daisy Jones and the Six comes another irresistible slice of escapist drama as a legendary tennis player steps out of retirement in a determined bid to reclaim her grand slam winning record. Carrie Soto is back, for one epic final season.
AUTUMN Page-TurnersThisSeasonInstagram:@sarabraggwriterWebsite:sarabragg.com
By Richard Osman Penguin £15.99
Osman’s beloved ageing investigators return in another captivating mystery. A local news legend is on the hunt for a sensational headline, and soon the gang are hot on the trail of two murders, ten years apart. To make matters worse, a new nemesis pays Elizabeth a visit, presenting her with a deadly mission: kill or be killed. Can the gang catch the culprit and save Elizabeth before the murderer strikes again? Cosy crime at its best.
Writer Sara Bragg rounds up the best new page-turners to get stuck into this Autumn
Breaking By Amanda Cassidy Canelo £8.99
Girl, Forgotten
A warm lovely read that will tug at your heartstrings. Becca and Charlie have known each other since university. Becca and Charlie have also hated each other since university. Until now. Until Ally’s bucket list. The death of their loved one should mean they can go their separate ways and not look back. But completing the list is something neither of them can walk away from. And sometimes, those who bring out the worst in you, also bring out the very best. Over the course of ten years, Becca and Charlie’s paths collide as they deal with grief, love and life after Ally.
By Taylor Jenkins Reid Cornerstone £16.99
The breathtaking new novel from the author of Hamnet, O’Farrell paints an evocative picture of Renaissance Italy. Winter, 1561. Lucrezia, Duchess of Ferrara, is taken on an unexpected visit to a country villa by her husband, Alfonso. Lucrezia realises that Alfonso intends to kill her. The Marriage Portrait is an unforgettable reimagining of the life of a young woman whose proximity to power places her in mortal danger.
The Bullet That Missed
A dazzling debut from a brilliant new voice in Irish crime fiction. It’s every mother’s worst fear. In the Florida Keys, a child goes missing from the beach. Yet the police are immediately suspicious of Mirren. She was drinking at a bar - alone - shortly before reporting that her youngest child had disappeared. And then a small body is found dumped in the ocean. Is Mirren a heartbroken mother, or the architect of her daughter’s fate? Breaking will see readers question their own notions of motherhood, guilt and the inescapable consequences of the past.
020 8154 36648 | Cherubs Magazine
By Maggie O’Farrell Headline £22.00
If you’re looking for the perfect afterschool savoury snack then here you go: cheesy scones packed with colourful veg. Delicious hot, warm or cold. They’re really fun for your budding little chef to make during a weekend baking session!
1. Preheat oven to 200°C / 180°C fan.
10. Bring the dough into a ball again, flatten and repeat until you have used all the dough. Makes approx. 10 scones.
• 225g self raising-flour
Method
Use a large mixing bowl so the flour is more likely to stay in the bowl rather than over the sides.
• 60g cheese, grated
9. Use a circular cookie cutter to cut out the scones and place on the lined baking tray.
LittleSconesHungryBakersBySasha@hungry_little_bakers
Ingredients
Making the dough can be a bit messy, so have a clean damp tea towel or cloth handy to wipe sticky fingers.
11. Ask your little one to carefully brush or ‘paint’ milk over the scones.
3. Pre-weigh all the ingredients and place into separate containers. Combine the baking powder and flour.
4. Ask little ones to carefully pour the flour into a bowl and rub in the butter until it looks like breadcrumbs.
12. Pop into the oven for 15 - 20mins until Keepgolden.inan airtight container for up to 3 days.
020 8154 3664 AUTUMN 10 | Cherubs Magazine
• ¼ courgette, grated
• ½ carrot, grated
Colourful
• 40g cold butter
• ¼ red pepper, diced
5. Ask them to pour in the milk and mix.
• 140ml milk
Top Tips
2. Grease or line a baking tray.
• ¼ yellow pepper, diced
• Pinch of salt
• Splash of milk (for milk wash)
8. Ask your little chef to ‘make it snow’ with the flour on your work surface and then show them how to gently flatten the dough with their hands (sprinkle a little more flour if it’s sticky.)
They freeze brilliantly - take them out of the freezer in the morning, pop into your picnic bag and they’ll be defrosted by lunch. Yum!
• 1 tsp baking powder
7. Mix well and bring together to form a dough ball.
6. Encourage your little chef to add the vegetables and then sprinkle in the cheese. (Tasting the vegetables as they go in is not a bad thing!)
They can also be frozen. Defrost and eat cold or reheat in the oven from chilled.
7. In a small bowl, help your little one to crack and whisk an egg. Ask them to use a pastry brush to brush the egg over each of the pastry twists.
Method
side of the pastry. Gently press around the edges to avoid too much spillage.
2. Add the berries and allow them to mix into the porridge; keep stirring until purple!
• Banana / berries / blueberries (toppings optional)
• You can add fillings of your choice too
Method
4. Sprinkle the cheese all over the tomato sauce. Cover with the other
1. Preheat the oven to 220°C / 200°C fan.
8. Pop in the oven for 20 mins until golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Delicious hot or cold, these simple cheesy twists are perfect for packed lunches, after-school snacks and weekend picnics.
• 1 egg
Ingredients
• 1 cup frozen / fresh blueberries / forest fruits / blackberries
• A generous sprinkle of chia seeds (optional)
• 1 cup oats
5. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry in half lengthways and then cut into 14 strips.
Ingredients
Pizza PurpleTwistsPorridge
Simply toast a crumpet, slice in half and ask your little chefs to wash and chop the veg and pop into separate bowls or holes in a muffin tray. Ask them to spread hummus / cream cheese / nut butter over the crumpet and then assemble their rainbow.
• 1 pack ready-rolled puff pastry
9. Enjoy!
• Dried oregano
2. In a small bowl, mix the tomato puree with a splash of water and a good sprinkling of dried oregano.
3. Unroll the pastry and ask your little one to use a spatula to spread the tomato sauce over one half of the pastry.
• Approx. 100g mozzarella cheese, grated
This vibrant breakfast makes a fun change from standard cereal. Adding berries helps to fill little tummies with vitamin C to fight those back-to-school germs.
Use the same cup for oats and milk to keep measurements correct. Kids can help measure the ingredients and pour into the pan away from the heat.
• 2 cups milk (plant based / cows)
1. Simply heat the oats and milk in a pan, stirring with a wooden spoon until it thickens.
3. Top with fruit and a good sprinkle of chia seeds for a nutritional boost (chia seeds don’t taste of anything so the kids don’t mind, but if yours object you could just add them to the pan and mix them in).
CrumpetsRainbow
Keep in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 3 days (if they last that long).
6. Twist in opposite directions and place on a lined baking tray.
Top Tips
A nutritious, fun and filling after-school activity / snack and a great way to get those veggies eaten up. All you need to do is pop a crumpet in the toaster, stick the kettle on for yourself and let them do the hard work!
AUTUMN Cherubs Magazine | 11
• 4 tbsp tomato puree / pizza sauce
Autumn is my favourite time of year. There’s nothing better than a walk in the forest when it’s cold and sunny and you have all those glorious colours to look at. When surrounded by all that beauty, it just makes sense to want to protect it for future generations and one way of doing this is through the choices we make. How we shop and where we buy our clothes does have an impact on the planet and so we need to be making sustainable purchases. But with sustainability being the buzzword right now, how do we really know where to buy from? Well, I’ve spent years researching brands and all those mentioned here maintain a whole ethos of kindness towards people and planet, so you can shop with an easy conscience.
Get designer childrenswear for a fraction of the price from the KIdswear Collective who specialise in the most gorgeous preloved clothing. kidswearcollective.com
BOYS
Muddy Puddles
Polarn O Pyre Swedish brand that has always used sustainable materials. They produce comfy clothes that my kids love to wear and they’re affordable. polarnopyret.co.uk
Frugi
For gorgeous, whimsical outfits head to Newbie and you will fall in love with every item of clothing newbiestore.com
Kidswear Collective
Petit Nord Handmade in Portugal in small family workshops, Petit Nord’s shoes are designed to last. They use vegetable-tanned leathers that are biodegradable and chrome-free. petitnord.com
Playful Children’s Clothes That Are Kind to Our Planet
By Karen Maurice @n4mummy
SUSTAINABLE AUTUMN 12 | Cherubs Magazine 020 8154 3664
My children are constantly up trees, so for worn-out knees and elbows how about using Frugi’s new repair patches to keep wellloved clothes still in action? welovefrugi.com
Make sure you can see your kids even though they’ve totally run on ahead with outwear from Muddy Puddles made from recycled plastic bottles. muddypuddles.com
Newbie
How about renting your child’s clothes rather than owning them? With SuperLooper can rent clothes for as little as £23 a month, which got me 8 items for my 2-year-old. They’re the Winners of sustainable
SUSTAINABLE AUTUMN cherubsmagazine.com Cherubs Magazine | 13 Website:GIRLSn4mummy.com
the Marie Claire Sustainability Awards, best
small business (kids fashion). superlooperlife.com Frugi Designed treesgirlsbecauseadventures,forlittlecanclimbtoo! welovefrugi.com Newbie newbiestore.com Petit Nord petitnord.com SuperLooper best Kidswear Collective kidswearcollective.com Muddy Puddles muddypuddles.com
The BonnieSuperLooperMob
you
By Gemma @alpinerose.interiors
Mustard£499.99 TowelBearHoodedBath H&M£9.99Home StorageToadstoolBasket Pretty but practical toy Dunelm£55storage Choose furniture for your baby’s nursery that will grow with them from baby to teen and beyond! NightPandaLight Scandiborn£23.50
Woodland Wallpaper (Pictured above) £88 per roll Bear & Beau Forest Deer Chair Bambinista£40
020 8154 3664 HOME LIFE 14 | Cherubs Magazine
Baby Room Project
Twinny Wardrobe
These locker-style wardrobes will add a fun element to the room and are available in a choice of pastel and vibrant colours. The two rails mean little people can reach their favourite outfits - it might even help them get dressed faster in the morning! The four shelves can be moved wherever you need them.
Wall colour - Jesse Chair colour - Evie
Edward Bulmer Natural Paint are pioneers in developing natural paints suitable for 21st century living that do not cost the earth. The paints are plant-based, breathable and robust for modern living. Using these beautiful natural paints means your walls will not give off any harmful toxins and your baby can sleep the same day as painting with its odourless finish. £51 for 2.5 litres
The Kabode Range from kabode.co.uk£44.95
Edward Bulmer Nursery Collection Paint
HOME LIFE cherubsmagazine.com Cherubs Magazine | 15 Website: alpineroseinteriors.co.uk Happy Place A4 Print LivingTailor£12.00Made WallWoodenPersonalisedPennantDecoration Skye£45 Folk ChangingWall-MountedTable If space is tight in your baby’s nursery opt for a clever wall-mounted changing Babymoov£119.99table. BlocksStackingWooden Scandiborn£28
place, then breathe out through your mouth for a count of eight. The slower the better. I find this technique effective because it moves your focus to the counting and helps to bring your body and mind back to its prestressed and calm state. It can be used at any time and is also a great technique to help you get off to sleep if your mind is overthinking!
Other techniques to help minimise stress include hands-on therapies such as Reflexology. This works to re-balance key systems and organs to help our bodies destress and work efficiently. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, cutting back on alcohol consumption, and journaling are also great ways to minimise stress. If you feel you need help managing your stress or anxiety, or have any questions about Hypnotherapy or Reflexology, please contact me directly for a confidential chat.
Details of what you can expect during a hypnosis session can be found at feelthinkdo.co.uk.
A lot of the time our day-to-day habits and the decisions we make will have an impact on our stress levels. But hear this! Not all stress is bad for us. Yet most of the time when we talk about stress, we are referring to the negative ‘bad’ stress rather than positive stress. Stress that is positive on our body can benefit us, motivate us and can be
habit-forming. Some things that can trigger positive stress are exercise, playing sports, socialising, undertaking hobbies and much more (and the more you do of these, the more you will want to do...).
Think about your breathing; so often we forget to check in with our breathing. To calm yourself try the 4/7/8 breathing Starttechnique:bybreathing in through the nose for a count of four, hold for a count of seven whilst you visualise a calm and relaxing
Hypnotherapy also offers a great way to retrain your brain to respond to stress in a more helpful way. Many people find the long-term benefit of hypnosis a powerful addition in their day-to-day stress management. After just a single session, many clients state that they feel completely calm and relaxed.
Millions of people in the UK say that they experience some level of stress every day. But what is stress? We all say we are stressed some of the time, but it has become an overused word and can mean many things to many people.
Julie is a Hypnotherapist and Reflexologist at Feel Think Do and can be found at The Good Rooms in Muswell Hill and North London/Herts area; contact julie@feelthinkdo.co.uk
ManagementStresswithJulieHamshere
So, when you hear yourself saying to someone ‘I am stressed’ or ‘X or Y is stressing me out’ that’s negative stress. Or you feel angry, overwhelmed, or unable to cope. It might be time to seek out ways to help yourself. If this sounds like you then here are some examples of things you can do to help reduce the negative stress.
Bad or negative stress has the opposite effect. This is the kind of stress that we need to get much better at recognising and dealing with. Whilst in the short term we may not notice the effects of stress at a cellular level, over time negative stress can be detrimental to our bodies and our minds. So, we must utilise stress reduction techniques, rather than just learning to cope with stress and anxiety, because the underlying levels of stress we place on our bodies can cause damage in the long term.
If we were to define stress at its most basic level, it is our bodies’ response to a change, a way of responding to our behaviour and our environment. Our body makes a call on the situation and decides if it is stressful or not! Things that we see or hear, and ‘past experiences, help decide this.
There are many causes of stress, from money worries to health, relationships, school, work, appearance, and much more. We need to get better at recognising the triggers of stress. Once we do that, we can learn how to manage it so that it does not become detrimental to our health. Our wellbeing is key, and whilst exercise and a good balanced diet are crucial, our ability to look inwards and help our own mental health is vital.
020 8154 366416 | Cherubs Magazine SELF CARE
A Myzone heart-rate belt will track your performance every step of the way. With your heart rate streamed on digital screens, you’ll work your body at just the right intensity to get the most from your workout.
THERE’S INTENSE, THEN THERE’S BLAZE.
Get ready to feel the burn and join the tribe #Blazetribe
An overload of light, sound and energy will power you through your workout. Our instructors will challenge, push and support you, to achieve results you never thought possible.
It’s new, it’s unique, like nothing you’ve experienced. A test of your strength, stamina and willpower, you’ll run, lift and fight. Blaze will push you to your limit and beyond.
ZONESINTENSE
Hobo Style Bag Ralph£749 Lauren LeggingsLimitless WAT£35 The Brand Cropped Dark Blue Jeans Arket£69 TrainersMadrid £99 Hoff SweaterCrewneckLongline WAT£60 The Brand HoopsInterlockingGold Orelia£22 DELYTSBY:An nia Sanchez-T mey
Remember that ‘first day at school’ feeling? Brand new clothes and a sense that anything was possible. This autumn brings a sense of unease with economic uncertainty and global instability taking centre stage. Creating a fashion edit against this backdrop is challenging, but fashion is about feeling good and daring to dream. So for this issue I have turned to staple pieces rooted in the comforting hues of the season, keeping a firm eye on practicality with a hunch that we’ll increase our days in the office and continue to spend time outdoors for our mental wellbeing, and because spending time outdoors with your kids is completely free!
Style Ed
020 8154 3664 STYLE
18 | Cherubs Magazine
Leopard Print Jasper Socks Tutti & Co Iris BraceletGold Tutti£36 & Co cherubsmagazine.com Cherubs Magazine | 19 Styled by Antonia Sanchez-Toomey Website: tailormadeliving.co.uk Instagram: @tailormadelivingstore CottonGinghamDress Toast£175 Straightcut Poplin Shirt White Arket£55 BagMessengerNavy Gucci£2,620 & Other Stories
Funnel Neck Split Hem Jumper
M&S£55 LaceOriannaUp Boot John£130Lewis Arizona Chocolate Sandals Birkenstock£125
Back To School Fresh
BEST FOR A LITTLE GLAMOUR: Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand in Pinkgasm
Now this is an amazing blush if, like me, you find yourself quite heavyhanded with a brush. Soft and pretty and comes in so many gorgeous shades.
TRY THIS NEW BLUSH TREND
BEST FOR SOFTNESS: MAC Mineralize Blush in New Romance
The ultimate on-thego blush for quick top ups, keep this in the car or your handbag for those minutes you need a quick refresh. boots.com
BEST FOR A MATTE LOOK: Bare Minerals Bounce & Blur Powder Blush
BEST FOR GLOW: Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Fresh Melon
I£29love
I love to call it ‘flushed blush’ but it’s also known as diffused blush and it’s a sweep of warm pink blush across the cheeks and over the nose. It’s pretty because it makes the skin look sun-kissed but it’s also super flattering as the placement can make us look more youthful.
I£26love
As the kids go back to school, this time of year always makes me want to refresh my makeup bag. Maybe it’s the memories of getting that fresh new pencil case and new set of fancy pens for the school year?! Or maybe it’s just that change of season, but it certainly feels a great time to reset and reorganise. Blush is a great way to refresh your look; it’s the one product that can instantly brighten your face and complexion, so here are my top picks for you.
020 8154 3664 BEAUTY 20 | Cherubs Magazine
With Amy Conway – Makeup Artist @bbpro_amyconway
this for all skin types but especially dry. It gives the most hydrated glow with a beautiful pop of colour, plus you can use it on the lips too. bobbibrown.co.uk
I£12.25lovethis for oily skin types. Seamless and smooth, this blush gives you that velvetlooking skin in one sweep. bareminerals.co.uk
maccosmetics.co.uk
this for that Hollywood skin in one quick swipe. This highlighter with a hint of colour gives you those gorgeous flushed cheeks with added radiance. charlottetilbury.com
£26
BEST FOR ON THE GO: Nudestix Nuddies Blush
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara £25
Step3
Define
Armani Luminous Silk Concealer
BrightenStep2
cherubsmagazine.com Cherubs Magazine | 21
SchoolEssentialsRun
BEAUTY
Nothing pops the eye like a good mascara and this is by far the bestquick, easy and impactful, you can layer one coat for a fresh full lash or build up for the ultimate false lash effect. lookfantastic.com
A£35.50greatconcealer is sometimes all we need. I find the moment we even out any tone under the the eye or around the nose, for example, we often don’t need a foundation or coverage anywhere else. Try applying just a little concealer and skipping foundation for a super speedy fresh makeup look. lookfantastic.com
NARS Summer Unrated Blush Bronzer Duo £37
ConcealStep1
If you are after a few simple products that will make you feel ready to face the day in seconds, these are the products for you.
A great 2-in-1 – start by warming the complexion with the bronzing powder, then smile in the mirror and pop the apple of the cheeks with the blush for an instant lift. boots.com
By Rose Cobden and Loretta Schauer –0-6 years
Rock-a-Bye Rumpus
The debut picture book from awardwinning author Juno Dawson is not one to be missed!! A hilarious take on family, allyship, and love. This book demonstrates how incredibly easy it really is to accept and celebrate each other for who we are.
020 8154 3664 READING 22 | Cherubs Magazine
You Need to Chill
By Juno Dawson – 0-6 years
Reading
Classic & contemporary action poems lovingly compiled by the one-and-only Julia Donaldson – this anthology is guaranteed to delight you and your little one! We especially love the stunning illustrations from Sébastien Braun which accompany each section.
Welcome to Dinosaur School
Meanwhile Back on Earth
ToddlersBabies& umn
Recommended by Pickled Pepper Books
A
By Oliver Jeffers – 0-6 years
By Julia Donaldson – 0-6 years
Get ready for your first day at school with this super-funny prehistoric picture book! It’s Jewel’s first day, and while lots of other dinos can’t wait to get to school, she isn’t feeling quite so excited. Follow along with Jewel as she takes on all the challenges of her first day at school!
A new Oliver Jeffers book is always something to shout about. This latest offering is no different - come along with a father and his two children on an adventure up into space and back through time. This stunning book will remind you that our funny little blue planet is here to be shared and treasured. The humour and heart in Oliver Jeffers’ books is truly unparalleled.
Sona can’t wait to run for class leader - that is, until she realises she’ll be competing against her two very best friends! When the friends fall out, Sona needs to decide whether it’s more important to win or to be a good friend. A beautiful series which explores themes of friendship, family, and growing up.
Inspiring Inventors Who Are Changing Our Future
By Various authors – 6-10 years
We’re so excited by the latest edition of the Scholastic Classics series! This beautiful collection brings together stories from across South Asia, all lovingly retold for young readers. Explore the gorgeous myths and legends of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Bhutan!
This poetry anthology is the perfect read for anyone feeling nervous about their first day back at school. Featuring poetry from a huge range of different writers, each bringing their own perspective on what it means to be courageous. You will feel a little more empowered with each poem.
cherubsmagazine.com READING Cherubs Magazine | 23
Joyful, Joyful: Stories Celebrating Black Voices
By Dapa Adeola and Patrice Lawrence –9 years+
This blissful book has been expertly curated by the entirely brilliant Dapo Adeola and features a foreword from the exceptional Patrice Lawrence. Bringing together 40 incredible Black writers and artists from around the world, this collection celebrates Black voices and demonstrates the crucial need for joyful Black representation.
Courage in a Poem
Be inspired to change the world by learning all about the amazing inventors who are working to make the world a better place. This collection of amazing individuals features scientists and inventors from all around the world. Perfect for any budding scientists or inventors!
yearsEarly years Books to get readingthemforpleasure
10 Middle Ln, Crouch End, London N8 8PL 020 3632 0823 • pickledpepperbooks.co.uk Instagram: @PickledPepperEnfield @pickledpepperbooks Twitter: @PickledEnfield
By Sarah Shaffi – 9 years+
South Asian Folktales, Myths and Legends
By Chitra Soundar – 6-10 years
By Hiba Noor Khan and Salini Perera –6-10 years
Sona Sharma - A Friend Indeed
We openly discuss adoption with our son, which is encouraged from a young age, to ensure there are no surprises as he grows older. It is important he knows we are honest with him, so there are no questions that go unanswered.
We tried for a child for 5 years. At one point we felt like giving up. After two rounds of IVF, an ectopic pregnancy, a diagnosis of adenomyosis and then sadly a hysterectomy, it felt like we were never going to have the family we wanted. In all that time we had never considered adoption, but why not?
FEATURE
Sarah’s books are available via www.theflamingofamily.co.uk where she also shares some fun free Eddy short stories. Also available on Amazon.
020 8154 3664
first children’s book, Eddy Finds a Family. I wanted to create a colourful and engaging story so that all children could understand adoption in a clearer and more realistic way. It explains both the parent and child’s journey through adoption. My son often asks, ‘How did you find me?’ and, ‘Was I lost?’ as he is interested to know how we came together to be a family. He loved being involved and was my chief editor, asking questions about the characters and commenting on illustrations.
TheSarahFamilyFlamingoMcGeough–Author&BookCoach
Adoption can give a child another chance at having stability, a family to love and a secure home. Even reading the recent statistics, they show a shocking reality of the crisis many children face in their young lives. In England there were 80,050 children in the care system in 2021 and only 2,870 were adopted.
My second book, Eddy Feels at Home, was endorsed by Adoption UK in 2021 and I have plans to continue to expand The Flamingo Family over the coming years. I have been delighted by the response to my books and have had wonderful comments and photos sent to me by many parents. I also see a difference in my son, as he now identifies with Eddy, talks openly about adoption and recognises both books relate to his own life story. I am passionate about finding ways in which the adoption community can feel included in day-to-day society. I think it is key for adoption to be discussed openly in mainstream primary education and I’m working on launching a school pack in 2023 to help all children understand adoption in a positive way.
is a sensitive subject, but it needs to be talked about more openly to raise awareness. It can bring so much happiness, but of course not being able to live with your birth family is never what a child would have wanted. There are many layers that can often be overlooked: Deep-rooted trauma, a real sense of loss and a need to understand their identity and birth families’ background. This does not go away just because you have been adopted.
The adoption process is a long one. It took us 3 years to be matched and we often found it challenging and complex. Children come into care for many reasons, and sometimes in horrific circumstances, so it is essential social services do their best to ensure every child is matched with the right Adoptionfamily.
We have found adoption to be extremely rewarding. Our life is more fulfilling and, ultimately, we want to do everything we can to give our son the best start. Our journey to becoming parents was unexpected and difficult. We were so close to giving up, but realise that if we had not considered adoption, then we would never have met our son. He brings so much joy and we could never imagine life without him. We believe we were meant to find one another.
Adopting our son has been a remarkable and emotional journey.
As our son became a toddler, and we started to show him his Life Story Book, I still felt there was more I could do to help him understand his start in life. So, during lockdown I decided to write my
24 | Cherubs Magazine
By Anna Coulson – Champion Tutor
When the usual ‘back to school chaos’ emerges, you don’t always have to be the one to rectify it. Allow siblings to take their frustrations and anxieties and work it out together; as long as it doesn’t come to fisty fights it can be a great way of peers sorting things out.
It has been such a stressful time for many children and a few have had a hard time coping. While we don’t have all the answers we do have a few remedies which could help. The best way that we can support children and young people with anxiety is to find ways to face the feared situations. Help plan ways for them to test out their fear gradually and set specific goals: for example speaking in class, putting their hand up to answer a question.
We did no work over summer
You might also be worried about problems at home getting worse by them returning to school. Whatever’s worrying you about school, don’t suffer alone.
Website: champion-tutor.co.uk
Insteadpractical.of reassuring the child or young person that nothing bad will happen, ask things like, ‘what has happened in this situation before?’
We are all different. Remember that anxiety can come and go, and that what helps one person may not help another. If you have any questions about this, please contact Anna at Champion Tutor who will be happy to talk through any specific needs. Champion pride themselves on being the only tuition company that combines the highest level of academia alongside embedding strategies for good mental health.
Open communication and listening to their concerns will enable them to trust you and the process of returning.
• Keeping safe and following social distancing.
We also need to stay calm yet supportive and try not to get drawn into emotions.
Here are some common concerns of parents and some suggestions that might help.
Becoming over-scheduled
When your child is slamming doors, and grunting around the house in the morning before school, don’t fix it. They are venting frustrations and learning. The old quip ‘I told you so’ or ‘this should have been done last night’ doesn’t help. They will figure it out themselves...eventually.
I’m worried my child has fallen behind and won’t catch up
Help the child or young person think through what they learnt about their fears and about themselves (e.g. did their worry come true? Did they cope?) You can help them to rate their anxiety levels on a scale of 1-10, and notice when they face their fear situation repeatedly the anxiety level goes down.
Due to the COVID pandemic, this is the biggest concern any of us face. It has been drawn to our attention so many times and you are not alone.
I’m worried about my child’s mental health
I don’t know how my child will react to the changes in school
cherubsmagazine.com Cherubs Magazine | 25
I wholeheartedly recommend an assessment. This will identify gaps and ensure that the right areas are targeted for the year ahead. Champion offers this service and not only can this be done at home but you can have a top educationalist talk through next steps.
• Catching up with work and how they’re going to be assessed.
The best thing we can do as parents is be aware that all our children, whether they show it or not, will be feeling anxious (and excited) to be returning to school. We need to talk to our children during the first few weeks of school to ensure they are aware of new routines, friends and teachers.
full first term to recap and get back into the swing of Septemberthings.comes
Children have lost the routine of school; for years the length of the summer holiday has been in dispute as it takes almost the
Going back to school can bring up lots of feelings for children. They might be happy to go back, wish they were still at home or want to be somewhere else completely. Children might be worried about:
It helps if you are supportive yet stay
• What the school will be like when they go back.
• Seeing friends again.
You don’t have to have all the answers all of the time
It’s ok. Children need freedom and time to make precious memories with their friends and family. Confidence in school work can be increased with the help of a tutor. This can be a family member, older sibling or, indeed, the support of a professional tutor.
• Starting a new routine, or coping away from home.
Back To School
round quickly and tires the children within the first few weeks. It is always a good idea to keep extracurricular activities to a minimum for the first few weeks. Introducing little and often is a great way to start.
• Being bullied.
EDUCATION
“Starting a new school or moving up a year can feel like a big leap for children and there is no better way to normalise their feelings and settle any apprehension than by talking,” says Tom Le Tissier, North Bridge House Prep School Head. By opening up dialogue about our children’s transition, we nudge them towards retrospection, which encourages both resilience and enthusiasm for the next step. Schools that are part of educational wellbeing communities and platforms like North Bridge House will have access to a wealth of parent resources, to prompt and support these conversations; make the most of the tools on offer to promote your child’s mental health and don’t be afraid to seek further advice from the school.
Hammer home the importance of homework
After school clubs are saviours
For September:
“Transition booklets are something we find very useful here at North Bridge House –creating one is a cathartic opportunity for children to visually represent and process their transition, including photos and descriptions of previous and new settings, teachers and friends,” says Michelle Blaber, Headteacher of North Bride House PrePrep, Hampstead. Making an ‘All About Me’ booklet or summer journal is also a creatively beneficial exercise; it’s something children can share with their new teachers and classmates in September and will keep them occupied during the initial stages of apprehension.
Don’t buy secondary school uniform too big
Get Set
EDUCATION - ADVERTISING FEATURE 020 8154 366426 | Cherubs Magazine
Whether your child is taking those emotional first steps to nursery, making the move from nursery to ‘big school’, or starting out at secondary school, how can you best prepare them for the ‘back to school’ milestone? Successful North London school group, North Bridge House, share their top tips.
...Metaphorically speaking! “The summer holidays will have been important downtime for your child, and they should not feel bogged down by the curriculum they are about to start, nor do they need to know their times tables off by heart before any member of their new class,” Brendan Pavey, Executive Headteacher of North Bridge House reminds us. However, come September and their first piece of homework, they will be all the more motivated to complete it if you have crafted a special homework station with them in advance. Whether it’s in the corner of the home office or in the conservatory, get the tools out of the garage and, together with your child, build a super cool, grown-up homework space, equipped with a desk and shelves, a picture of their pet and a stash of epic new stationery. Some fairy lights and a colourful chair could make it all the more a place they want to be rather than have to be. And having a dedicated space for your child to work will improve their focus come that first assignment.
Your Parenting Back To School Guide
Not only do they provide working parents with childcare solutions and single parents with the opportunity to run a comb through their hair, but after school clubs are a great way to develop social skills, extra-curricular interests and friendships as your child settles into a new school or year group. From yoga, tap dance, Spanish and ukele - to name but a few - at the Nursery and Pre-Prep Schools, to almost 40 different clubs at the Prep School, North Bridge House presents every opportunity for children to develop a range of skills beyond the curriculum, but most importantly, to grow in character and confidence. “And
opportunities for your child to socialise are so important in helping them to develop empathy and kindness towards others, as well as improving their confidence and communication skills,” says North Bridge House Nursery & Pre-Prep Head, Eilish Sleator. There may even be valuable initiatives in place to settle your child into their new school ahead of September: The New to North Bridge programme – a series of settling in events which take place in the academic year prior to entry – also initiates friendships between children and parents, presenting the opportunity to connect and have play dates in advance of the first day of school.
Open up the conversation
Journalling is your best friend
“Adolescence is a challenging time for children and with it can come concerns over image and experimenting with identity,” says North Bridge House Senior Canonbury Headteacher, Charlotte Tassell-Dent. Kids do not want a blazer two sizes too big because you said they would grow into it. (An oversized school hoodie, however, is much more on trend!). While respecting the uniform rules and encouraging your child to take pride in their appearance and representation of the school, allow them to be as confident in their uniform as possible. Starting a new school comes with the anxieties of making new friends and wanting to fit in, and kids are generally a lot more invested in how they look. Liberal schools like North Bridge House will also have a gender-neutral uniform, so take the time to go through the options with your child and ensure they have picked out the items they will feel most comfortable in.
North Bridge House North Bridge House is on a constant journey of getting to know and understand every child as an individual, realising their true academic and personal potential through specialist provision at every school stage. Book an open day or private tour at northbridgehouse.com/open NURSERY & PRE-PREP WEST HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS SATURDAY 17 SEPT NURSERY & HAMPSTEADPRE-PREP2-7YEARS SATURDAY 1 OCT PREP REGENT’SSCHOOLPARK4-13YEARS SATURDAY 24 SEPT SENIOR HAMPSTEAD 11 - 16 YEARS SATURDAY 17 SEPT SENIOR CANONBURY 11 - 18 YEARS SATURDAY 24 SEPT Join OpenSaturdayourDayFairs
EDUCATION 28 | Cherubs Magazine 020 8154 3664
More of the Early Years Curriculum can be found on the Gov.uk website –Development Matters Document.
cherubsmagazine.com EDUCATION Cherubs Magazine | 29 Website: EarlyEagermyevelynandme.comYearsByAimeeHart@hart_at_home
These Early Years of Primary School are some of the most rewarding years for children. This is where they come to realise the type of learner they are, the kind of friends they need and the kind of person they will become. They are able to make choices about their learning and will surprise you with how much they grow. Enjoy these years together.
your child’s behaviours may change. This could be down to growing and changing or it could be copying behaviours they’ve seen at school. Consistency with communication, boundaries and explanations will always help children begin to understand what their behaviour may lead to. The main thing to remember is that all behaviour has a meaning. There is no such thing as bad behaviour.
• Homework – And I don’t mean getting workbooks and sitting them down to do fractions! Continue their experiences and communication. Talk to them about their world and explore their environment. Read stories at bedtime and sing familiar songs. Count their strawberries as you cut them and plant seeds in the spring. Homework shouldn’t be a chore – it should continue the learning.
From my experience, children in the early years of school don’t have ‘friends’ in the same way as older children. Young children will happily play alongside a range of children before moving toward playing with specific children who share the same interests. This allows children to figure out their personal choices and how similarities amongst people lead to friendships. At this age it is very unusual for children to be mean, or bully others intentionally. This is usually learnt behaviour or experimenting with boundaries.
The Early Years Curriculum is designed to support the whole child and not just their academics, so don’t worry if they come home and say they’ve played all day. The three prime areas are: Communication and Language, Physical Development and Personal and Social Development. These focus on how your child can communicate, move and socialise. These elements are fundamental to them progressing and will be a main focus of their early journey in school. Child-initiated play and adult-directed play are both used within the classroom to support the development of these.
Behaviour
Lots of parents worry about the behaviour their children exhibit in the early years of school. Often it is hard to control, hard to communicate and unexplainable. When settling in to a new school environment
Learning – Prime Areas
How to support
• A positive drop-off – The best thing to do to help your child start their school
“How was your day darling?” you may ask your child each day as they come home from school. Answers will vary from “Can’t remember” to “Dunno” and my all-time favourite…“Nothing.” These will become commonplace amongst the conversations you will have with your offspring. As a teacher, I can guarantee that they did not spend 6 hours staring into space doing nothing. In fact, their day will have been so jam-packed with play, education, socialising and general learning how to be independent that their little brains may be quite frazzled 30 seconds after leaving the building. If you are a new-to-school parent this may cause some worry. It may seem like they are not happy. It may seem like they are not learning. It may seem like they have no friends. Settling in to a new environment is a big change for children and it will take them time to find their feet, but the stimulating environment that schools provide will allow them to come into their own…in their own time.
Learning – Specific Areas
journey is to be positive about it. You may feel worried, teary or sad at this new chapter but they will respond to your reaction. Be excited as you drop them off. Wish them a good day and walk away with a smile. It can be hard if your child starts to cry as you leave and you MAY be tempted to go back and console them… but if you allow the staff to do that and give them time they will eventually settle. If they see you return when they cry, they will link this reaction with school dropoffs for a while.
Friendships
• Independence – This takes time to build, but if you have expectations that they complete certain things themselves, they will develop an internal discipline and have expectations of themselves. Begin with something simple like putting their bowl in the sink, putting their toys away or getting dressed. These little tasks will soon become routine.
Alongside the Prime Areas of the Early Years Curriculum there are also the four specific areas which link to subjects you may recognise. These are added to the classroom – commonly linking to the theme of the classroom. Literacy, Mathematics, Understanding the World, Expressive Arts and Design. These are all on a basic level and in schools are often something the staff will set up and allow the children to manipulate themselves. These are the beginning building blocks of learning that will stretch into their future Primary Years Curriculum.
child to fail. As a teacher, I know how important it is that children get things wrong, because without this they cannot learn to deal with adversity. As adults we all need to know how to manage set-backs, how to pick ourselves up, how to focus on what we might do differently next time.
EDUCATION - ADVERTISING FEATURE Find out more about Mount House School mounthouse.org.ukororwww.mounthouse.org.ukatbycalling02084496889emailingadmissions@
AS LEVEL CITIZENSHIP
Some students perform exceptionally well in exams, others – despite just as much effort – do not. At Mount House we celebrate all our students’ achievements, no matter how ‘good’ the outside world might judge them to be. We are a small school and we know our students well. We know that our results will go up and down in each year, depending on the ability of our mixed and inclusive cohort. Our expectations are clear and they are high: we expect that every student will do their best, will focus in lessons, will complete homework and we encourage them to ask for help when they need it. If they do that, they will achieve results of which we are all proud.
If you have not yet visited Mount House, we would be delighted to welcome you to our next Open Morning on Saturday 24th September.
AS LEVEL THINKING SKILLS
AimingHigh
For more information about Sixth Form and Open Days, please call 020 8449 6889 or visit the www.mounthouse.org.ukwebsite
AS GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES
“We are delighted with the achievements of our students and proud not just of their results but also the young adults they have become.”
AS LEVEL LAW
Of course teenagers don’t always work as hard as they can, and of course things can go wrong in the exam hall – but learning to fail is also a rite of passage. As a parent, I do know it is terribly hard to ‘allow’ your
Mrs Sarah Richardson MountHead House School
I remember it from my own school days, and as a teacher I re-live it every year. As a parent, this year I experienced the double whammy of GCSEs and A Levels in the same year!
Exam results days are a rite of passage. All children, and their parents, have to go through them. The exams themselves are bad enough, but then there is the waiting –and inevitably the more time that elapses the easier it is to focus on the things which might have gone wrong in the exam hall.
We all know there is more to life than exams. Exams are a blunt instrument of judgement and no young person should be made to feel inadequate on the basis of their exam results. I congratulate those whose children have achieved great results, and I commiserate with those whose children have not. I urge you to remind your children that exams can always be re-taken, or an alternative route can be followed. I urge you to celebrate your child’s other achievements, in art, sport, music, drama and good citizenship.
Barnet / Independent / Co-educational / Ages 11–18 Inspiring every individual – Small school with small class sizes – Highly effective pastoral care system Excellent academic results at both GCSE and A level – A wide range of co-curricular activities and clubs – School transport routes to Enfield and Canons Park For entry at 11+, 13+ and Sixth Form (in-year admissions may be available) www.mounthouse.org.uk / 020 8449 6889 / admissions@mounthouse.org.uk Mount House School, Camlet Way, Hadley Wood, Hertfordshire, EN4 0NJ AIMING HIGH OPEN DAY Saturday 24th September Explore Mount House in Hadley Wood, North London SCAN TO BOOK YOUR PLACE
EDUCATION - ADVERTISING FEATURE 020 8154 366432 | Cherubs Magazine
“I’m really excited for Ms Christofi to be our headteacher from September. Broomfield is a great school with lots of opportunities for me to excel both in the classroom and in our school community.” Year 10 student.
process in December 2021, intent on finding a candidate with the requisite qualities to maintain, and build upon the educational standards already in place at the “Adeleschool.impressed us all throughout the process with her vision, warmth, experience, attention to detail and passion for comprehensive education” said Mr Thwaites. “This is a new step on Broomfield’s journey of continual improvement.”
Broomfield appointsSchoola forHeadteachernewSeptember2022
From Ms Christofi:
Adele joined Broomfield following 12 years at Holy Family Catholic School in Walthamstow, in the role of Head of the Upper School. Prior to that, she was at Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School in Barnet, where she was a Head of Year and Acting Assistant Head Teacher.
“I joined Broomfield in September 2021 and I have already been involved in lots of sports clubs, music clubs, law society, debating society and the school production of Matilda. I am also a Broomfield Ambassador which means I get to go back to my primary school and talk about the move from primary to secondary school.” Year 7 student.
The Board of Governors of Broomfield School is delighted to announce the appointment of Adele Christofi as our new Headteacher. Adele will lead the school from September 2022, taking over from Cate Seymour who has been Interim Headteacher for the past year.
Website: broomfield.enfield.sch.uk
This is achieved through our 4 key areas: • Curriculum • Character • Culture • Community
Come and see Broomfield in October at our Open Evening on Tuesday 4th October at 6pm. Listen to my vision for the school, meet our students and see our facilities. I look forward to meeting you all individually.
Adele joins us with a background of drama teaching. She studied at the prestigious Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, which has trained the likes of Laurence Olivier and Dame Judi Dench. Whilst at Central she completed a degree in Drama and Education, followed by a PGCE in Drama. Most recently, she has also completed the National Professional Qualification for Headship alongside the Institute of Education.
The Chair of the Board of Governors, Prof. Gregory Thwaites, began the recruitment
By following these 4 key areas, Broomfield students will understand their learning in relation to the wider world we live in. Students will be developed into leaders who are fully prepared for 21st century life.
At Broomfield School, are committed to all students having a quality education that is underpinned by an ambitious academic curriculum and is supported by a range of personal enrichment and super curricular opportunities, with our overall aim to develop well rounded young adults, ready to tackle the world.
020 8154 366434 | Cherubs Magazine
Let’s Talk DyscalculiaAboutByHariNeocleous@the_maths_nuts
10 years ago, I left classroom teaching to become ‘Miss Maths’, a maths intervention teacher. During this time, I’ve seen a range of reasons children might need extra tuition. Some children work better in small groups. Sometimes small gaps become bigger gaps if they’re not addressed. Other reasons for falling behind might be poor concentration, attendance, slow processing, difficulties understanding maths vocabulary, low confidence, maths anxiety or a poor working memory. Some students will leave important steps out in methods, so we work on maths jottings and slowing down our thinking. For some children, the cause is dyscalculia.
My lessons are tailored to the child using a multi-sensory approach, with 3 mini sessions or one hour a week. We build on what they know. We develop their working memory. Our main lesson begins with practical work where key maths resources are used to teach a concept. We move onto using pictures or maths diagrams, then we move onto number sentences. Children
magnitude of a number or the value of each digit (e.g. in 48 the value of the 4 is 40 or four tens, the value of the 8 is eight ones). Numbers seem abstract and amounts are difficult to imagine. Children find it hard to count backwards and subitise (e.g. instantly recognise spots on a dice or domino). Children often count on their fingers when they might not need to. (Please note, using fingers is a great method for students but we want them to have other strategies too.)
Virtual manipulatives from mathigon.org
A lesson outline:
What is Dyscalculia?
There are difficulties in understanding the
number facts. Children with dyscalculia do not have these strategies or images of number in their minds so they need to be taught them. That’s where a specialist dyscalculia tutor is needed.
My advice to parents is not to ignore any maths worries. The last few years haven’t been easy. And not every child responded the same to online maths learning! Speak to the teacher and share examples of where your child has struggled. Early intervention is key.
When I’m assessing for maths difficulties common red flags are errors counting back, confusing the +, - x and ÷ signs, difficulties comparing numbers and ordering. An example of a question in my initial assessment is, ‘What is 5 + 3?’ Children with dyscalculia often struggle without the use of their fingers. I often observe my students secretly tap onto the backs of their chairs if I’ve said, ‘Okay’ no fingers for this question’. To solve 5+3 most children will count on from 5, ‘5...6, 7, 8.’ Some will imagine 5 dice spots and 3 dice spots. Some will imagine a number line or automatically know their
Dyscalculia is a specific maths learning difficulty where children or adults struggle with arithmetic and reasoning and have a poor sense of number. It can affect all ages and abilities.
using decimal notation is ‘2p’ written as £0.20 or £0.02? (Common error: 2p is recorded as £0.2).
These examples show a lack of number sense, difficulties with place value and multi-step problems.
Here are some ways a child with dyscalculia might struggle when learning about money:
A child with dyscalculia will find ways to problem solve. They take a different route when learning and it’s the most rewarding job to help them find their way.
If one penny equals 1p, how does one coin also represent 20 pennies (20p) or 50 pennies (50p)?
The good news is that all children I teach will make progress, sometimes small steps sometimes accelerated progress. Many won’t be seen again. Some might be referred to me as they move through the school. And for those children who
Dyscalculia awareness is increasing. Current research is helping educators understand more about how the dyscalculic brain works. They say 1 in 30 children have dyscalculia; it can range from mild to severe. When I walk down a corridor I hear ‘Miss Maths, Miss Maths’ as if I’m some sort of celebrity! It’s the sweetest thing to know that children who once feared maths are excited to learn.
Difficulties with place value. Can they make 17p and 70p correctly with coins or do they confuse the two amounts?
Why is the 2p coin (which is lower in value) larger in size than a 5p coin (a higher value Whencoin)?
Addition of coins, e.g. 2p +5p + £2 (children might record total of £9 instead of £2.07).
Difficulties with mental calculation when there’s no pen or paper and they feel rushed.
For more information or to find a dyscalculia tutor please contact The Dyscalculia instagram.com/dyscalculianetworkinfo@dyscalculianetwork.comNetworkdyscalculianetwork.comtwitter.com/DyscalculiaNet1facebook.com/dyscalculianetwork
If you’d like to see photos of a maths intervention lesson in the future do let our Cherubs editor know. She gives me very unrealistic word counts! I hope I’ve given you some ideas as to why your child might be struggling. If they show signs of dyscalculia, keep a maths diary (with quotes) and approach your class teacher. Schools will offer some ‘in school’ support first and if progress isn’t made, they may make a referral to be assessed. Please check out The Dyscalculia Network (dyscalculianetwork. com) for more information and a specialist tutor. Remember your role: to make maths fun, build confidence, play games, bake together, count pocket money. What you do matters and how you talk about maths has an impact.
discover the ‘wow moments’ themselves and link it all together using maths talk. We revisit previous learning, and every lesson has a maths game. We work on visualisation skills. I want them to ‘see’ the maths when they close their eyes. We have fun, laugh and children feel safe to explore and learn from mistakes.
show signs of dyscalculia, there will be discussions with the SENCO and parents, and they may be referred to an assessor. Only a dyscalculia assessor can give an official diagnosis. I’m a dyscalculia tutor in training but I’m not an assessor.
cherubsmagazine.com Cherubs Magazine | 35
Difficulties understanding the concept of change, e.g. adding 2 items, paying with a pound coin, and then working out the change.
EDUCATION
Nutrition is just one piece of the puzzle; there are some other equally important factors for immune health.
• Enjoyment. Sometimes we eat for the joy of it and that can be lovely, but when we make a regular habit or a whole evening of it, it becomes problematic and ironically much less enjoyable. If eating is part of your evening relaxation, choose foods that work with your health goals. E.g. if crisps are your favourite evening snack, instead of having just a big bowl of crisps, have a smaller portion of crisps and some cut-up veggies with a little dip. If you’re working on weight loss, find
You are not alone in this, I see it all the time and once you figure out what is going on, you can make some changes and feel more in control of your evening eating. There could be a number of reasons for this.
There are some nutrients which are particularly helpful for optimal immune function. I’ve listed the main ones below – just look at the foods you can get these nutrients from and try to include them in your diet regularly. In some cases supplementation may be needed but I always recommend doing so under the guidance of a health professional.
At first, some of these changes might feel like an effort, but the more you do them they will become habits and feel natural.
• Turmeric - add it to your cooking as often as possible; combine with pepper and a healthy fat like olive oil to help your body absorb more of it.
• Medicinal mushrooms – contain compounds called beta-glucans that have a powerful effect on immune function. So many delicious drinks are available now from mushroom coffees and even mushroom hot chocolate!
• Ginger and garlic.
• Movement! I know we’re less motivated to exercise in the colder months but the science is clear: exercise helps modulate our immune system and supports optimal function. It doesn’t have to be intense exercise; gentle movement, lifting weights, a daily walk - it all counts. And I promise you will feel great afterwards. Essentially, look after your overall physical and mental health, look after your immune system and it will look after you too. with Christianna, contact her on 07851 680211 or christianna@eathappyfeelgood.co.uk
How can I keep my immune system healthy during cold and flu season?
• One of the main reasons this happens is undereating during the day. So make sure you’re giving your body enough food throughout the day. Experiment with different timings and meal sizes to find what works for you. For some it will be to have three substantial meals while others prefer to have two meals and some snacks. If weight loss is something you’re working on, make sure you’re getting enough protein and fibre in your meals.
Q
• Fatigue. This is a really common trigger for evening overeating. After a busy day, your body is low on energy and will look for quick sources of energy. These are often high sugar, high fat foods which offer the most energy (calories). If you know you have eaten enough then what you need is rest. Give your body what it needs. Trying to fix fatigue with food won’t work. Have a relaxing bath, read a book in bed, go to sleep. Do something away from food.
The truth is that to keep our immune system healthy all year round and better able to handle cold and flu season, our body needs the same basic things that are important for overall health. That being said, there are a few points that are particularly important.
• Minimising stress – I know this is easier said than done and we can’t always control stress levels but what we can do is find ways to cope with stress more effectively. Active relaxation can help; find what works for you and make it a regular part of your life.
A
A
• Vitamin C – citrus fruit (oranges, pink grapefruit, tangerines) kiwi, broccoli, peppers, tomatoes.
• Zinc – in oysters, prawns, scallops, beef, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, tahini.
• Too much of a calorie deficit. Linked to the above point, if you create too much of a calorie deficit your body will struggle. Create a small deficit, enough to gradually be losing weight without being too restrictive. Excessive restriction often leads to overeating.
Ask fromWithNutritionistTheChristiannaKaraolisEatHappyFeelGoodIfyou’dliketohaveaconsultation
some crisp alternatives that you still find satisfying. My favourite is crunchy peas or chickpeas; they’re crunchy, tasty and come with the added benefit of fibre and protein in fewer calories. Once you’ve eaten your snack, find the joy in the rest of the evening that isn’t food-related.
HEALTH & WELLBEING
• Enough sleep and rest – this is when your mind and body restore and it’s crucial!
• Quercetin – high in apples, dark berries and grapes.
36 | Cherubs Magazine 020 8154 3664
Q
Why am I so hungry in the evenings? I’m sure it’s part of the reason I struggle to lose weight but I can’t control my eating at night.
• Mindless eating. We often watch TV in the evening and get the snacks out. We know we eat much more this way, mainly because we’re not connected to the amount we’re eating. To help reduce this, put a portion of whatever you’re going to snack on in a bowl or buy preportioned snacks. Make an agreement with yourself that this is your portion. While you are eating it, check in with yourself and consciously enjoy the food; this way you’re far more likely to enjoy it and happily stop after you’ve eaten your chosen portion.
• Vitamin D – sunlight is the best source of vitamin D but many of us in the UK will need to supplement, including children.
• Hydration – water and herbal teas such as green tea, peppermint tea and chamomile are ideal.
• Vitamin E – from almonds, sunflower seeds.
First up is nutrition. An overall balanced diet matters, with sufficient protein, healthy fats, complex carbs and a variety of plant foods for good gut health which is linked to immune health.
• Selenium – brazil nuts are the best food source.
• Vitamin A – get beta carotene (which then becomes vitamin A in the body) from sweet potatoes, butternut squash, liver, eggs.
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My goal is to provide a bespoke service, allowing clients as much input as possible into the creation of their jewellery. It is a truly unique experience, embedded with thought and sentiment from the client, coupled with the highest level of craftsmanship.
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Deep Belly (diaphragmaticBreathingbreath)
• Take a long, full breath through the nose all the way down to the belly and feel it expand into the hand.
Try to practice this for 5-10 minutes.
So often as parents we can feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed. Although we all know about the importance of self-care, sometimes we are led to believe this is all bubble baths and spa days – hardly realisitic when we’re trying to juggle the everyday demands of family life! In fact, sometimes all we really need is a few moments to check in with ourselves, our body, our breath.
How Are You Breathing?
The Science
Here are some of my favourite breathing techniques to regulate your mind, feel calmer and restore some clarity to your day.
Just Breathe
• Once you have exhaled, keep the lungs empty for another four counts.
cherubsmagazine.com HEALTH & WELLBEING Cherubs Magazine | 38
To try with your little ones
This four-part breath technique can be a great way to aid sleep if you often have difficulty switching off at the end of a busy day!
By becoming aware of the breath, and practising various breathing techniques, we stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. This controls the body’s ability to relax by tapping into the ‘rest and digest’ state. Stimulating this tells the brain that we are safe, and we enter a state of relaxation which breeds recovery. The more we practise this, the stronger the connection to this state, the more emotionally resilient we can become. The best part? It’s completely free and available to you whenever you want to try!
• Sit comfortably with your child and take their hand in yours (or demonstrate on your own hand).
• Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen.
• As you exhale trace downwards to the base of the next finger.
• Guide their breath by tracing the outside of the fingers, starting at the thumb.
Our breath is one of the most basic tools we have, with us from the moment we are born, yet we don’t always realise how transformative and healing it can be. Without changing a thing, just notice how you are breathing right now in this moment. Are they short, shallow breaths into the upper chest or slow, deeper inhalations into the belly?
Typically, we have been conditioned to focus on holding in our abdominal area throughout the day to help with our posture, but for this breath practice, the aim is to let the muscles soften, and expand. You can do this anywhere: on the sofa, in bed, in the car…or for new parents this is a great one to do when feeding your baby.
• As you both inhale, move up the thumb towards the tip.
• Exhale for four counts, completely emptying the lungs as you breathe out through the mouth.
• Once you’ve reached the baby finger, come all the way back to the thumb, the way you came, by moving up and down each finger slowly and mindfully.
Box (breathBreathingretention)
• Begin by finding a comfortable seated position and then inhale through the nose for a count of four, filling the lungs slowly and deeply.
Take A Moment
Ideally find a place to sit comfortably so that you can tune in and really become aware of your body and how the breath feels. Before you begin, try to release any tension you are holding onto in the face, neck or shoulders.
Finger Breathing – this is great for calming down children if they are overwhelmed, upset or struggling to settle.
This practice requires a little more attention and control than the last, but it is great for restoring the breath to its normal rhythm. It’s fantastic for calming and grounding you. A great way to interrupt the stresses of daily life.
• After a few rounds, retain the inhale for four counts when you’ve filled the lungs.
• Exhale through pursed lips and draw the belly inwards, away from the hand.
• Aim for the belly to rise and fall whilst the chest remains still.
This will encourage your child to develop some awareness of their own breath and it’s a great opportunity to connect through simple touch.
Simple, stress-busting life hacks with yoga teacher and mother of two, Becky. @childsposelondon
By Antonia Sanchez-Toomey
LIVING All The Light
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Follow Louise on @managethislou
She rented her flat and unwittingly became a landlady. Life was hectic; she had to quickly learn the responsibilities of looking after her tenants, maintaining the property whilst juggling her mother’s care and being a stand-in parent for her younger sibling.
The ethos of their company is still the same as when they set it up on the kitchen table – provide a service rooted in integrity, accountability and client satisfaction. This is always underpinned by the memory of being a tenant in rented accommodation and the importance of having a place to call home. Louise and Douglas care and this is the reason why each year they donate a percentage of their profits to the homeless charity Shelter.
When asked why HMOs, Louise said:
not realise at the time was that being a tenant gave her an invaluable insight into how important rented accommodation can be when providing a home for those that you love, and with two properties let ‘accidentally’ she understood too the financial security it offers.
Louise still pinches herself when she thinks how far her 19-year-old self has come. When asked she says, “Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had my ups and downs.” However, she’s still juggling all the plates – running a successful business (she is still very handson), looking after her children, ensuring that properties are let, managed and compliant across London, and like most mums, ensuring everyone’s happiness before her own. There’s no doubt that her mum would be proud of the businesswomen that she has
Fate then conspired against her. She lost her job and with it her financial security, her beloved mother passed, and all this at a time when she embarked on her own journey as a first-time mum. Looking after both her sibling and her own child, whilst grieving for her mum, and realising that the family home was not adequate for her family’s need, meant that she needed to look for alternative accommodation. Taking a deep breath, she decided to take the brave decision to rent the family home and move into rented accommodation so that her brother and her child had access to a better life. After settling into one property, and then being told that it was to be sold and hence they had to leave, Louise quickly learnt how unsettling it can be when the tenure of a property, and hence your future, is
has a funny way of taking you down a path that you did not plan, but as the old adage says, when life gives you lemons…set up that lemonade stand.
More information about how Reka helps landlords, HMO properties and their licensing application service can be found at www.rekaproperty.co.uk.
Sometimesbecome.life
HOME
empathetic landlady and with it came a passion for property management, and a career in the Property Management industry beckoned.
Whatuncertain.shedid
Louise Burke knows how to juggle. When life gave her lemons, she made lemonade. At 19, she bought her first property, with the financial help of her mum, and then in her twenties she bought her own flat. However, not long after, her mum was diagnosed with cancer and so Louise moved back into her childhood home to nurse her mum and look after her younger brother.
‘It’s difficult to earn double-figure yields on single-let investments, however HMOs help maximise the profit on your asset.’
Together these experiences made her an
ByLandlordAccidentalTheRosheenVenables
Reka now offer a bespoke property management for landlords, HMO landlords and shrewd investors across London. They cover everything from converting properties into HMOs, finding the right tenant, marketing the properties and the legal compliance requirements that come with such a commitment. Relied on by local authorities, to ‘accidental’ landlords, they are considered experts in their field.
020 8154 366442 | Cherubs Magazine
Following requests from their clients, they also now manage property license applications for landlords. They are a one-stop shop ensuring that their clients maximise the earning potential in their properties. Having all these services under one roof is rare in their industry.
Louise then met her fiancé Douglas, and at their kitchen table Reka Property Management was born. Douglas was a safe pair of hands as he already had knowledge of developing HMOs (Homes of Multiple Occupancy) for clients, and through their experience they both understood the needs of both tenant and landlord. It made perfect sense to build on this passion. They bought their first property and developed it into a HMO. It was a big step for a single mum with dependent children – lots of sleepless nights and concerns followed, had she done the right thing? But fortune favours the bold and now 12 years later the company has gone from strength to strength, building on that first HMO property to include a portfolio in double figures.
benefit within
If you’ve struggled to find quality tenants, reduce rental vacancies or been frustrated doing the necessary legal compliance, repairs or maintenance, then maybe the REKA Property Home Finder Scheme can help you.
To find out more information, call us on 0203 286 6468 or email us at lettings@rekaproperty.co.uk and quote “rent my property.”
Benefits to Landlords: • property let within 10 days • a solid two-year assured tenancy period • fast-tracked
tenants • receive
tenants
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This FREE service helps landlords to immediately let their properties to good tenants while providing quality accommodation for Local Housing. housing days of inspecting vetted quality the housing benefit payment directly to you, the landlord, not to the
your property • a cash incentive up to £1000 • fully
5. Arrange the chicken thighs into the rice. Bring to a gentle simmer, lower the heat and cover. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes till the water is fully absorbed and the rice and chicken are cooked through.
Ingredients
020 8154 3664 LIVING 44 | Cherubs Magazine
• 1 cup peas
• 2 cups uncooked long grain rice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp paprika
Method
1. Put the paprika, herbs, garlic powder, salt and black pepper in a bowl and mix to combine.
• 1 tsp mixed dried herbs
• 3 cups chicken stock
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
EatHappyFeelGood
• 1 large can sweetcorn, drained
Full of flavour and so easy! The perfect weekday dinner winner.
• 6 skinless & boneless chicken thighs
2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl of the seasoning and combine till the chicken is well coated.
3. Heat up 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan on medium / high heat, and cook the chicken for 3 minutes on each side until slightly browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
• Parsley to garnish
4. Add the 2nd tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and cook the chopped onions until soft and lightly caramelised. Add the rice, seasoning and mix into the onions making sure it’s all well combined. Also add the vegetables and pour in the chicken stock. Stir a little to make sure it’s all combined.
One Pot Chicken, Veggies & Rice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup mashed banana (2–3
• ½
3. Add the oats and nuts. Make sure it’s all thoroughly mixed.
•
• ½ cup olive oil
into
• ⅓ cup maple syrup
5. Bake for 30 minutes in the centre of the oven. Take out of the oven but leave the oven on, as you will need it again soon.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, maple syrup and vanilla. Add the banana.
4. Put the oat mixture onto the lined baking tray and spread out. Press the mixture firmly into the baking tray. This will help form clusters.
• 5 cups rolled oats
Cherubs Magazine | 45 A delicious and a perfect summer meal, picnic food or meal prep dish. Ingredients • 4 skinless chicken breasts • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided • 3 tbsp Cajun seasoning • 3 garlic cloves, grated • 1 onion, finely chopped • 2 red peppers, chopped • 400g tin chopped tomatoes • 200g butternut squash cut into very small cubes (1cm max) • 1L chicken stock • 500g dried pasta • 4 tbsp light cream cheese • Salt and pepper to taste • Fresh parsley to serve Method 1. Cut the
pieces and
Add 1 tbsp olive oil, the
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the carrots, walnuts and raisins (if using).
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
bananas)
1. Preheat the oven to 175°C and line a muffin tray with paper cases.
•
• ½ tsp fine salt chicken bite-sized put it in a bowl. Cajun Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
2. Add the oil, honey, vanilla, cinnamon and salt to a large bowl. Whisk till all ingredients are well mixed.
• 1 tsp baking powder
7. Break it up into clusters - start from the outside edges. If the centre is still a little underdone and bends rather than snaps, you can return to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes to crisp up. Again, let it cool fully.
1. Preheat the oven to 160°C (325°F). Line a baking tray with nonstick baking paper. I use a 29 x 41cm tray.
MethodIngredients
8. Store in an airtight container and enjoy with yoghurt or milk.
• ¼ tsp salt
MethodIngredients
2. Put a sieve over a large bowl and sieve in the flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
• 1 ¼ cup plain flour
6. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool fully.
• ½ cup honey (this quantity gives a subtle sweetness. If you want it a little sweeter add ¾ cup honey)
• 2 tbsp vanilla
6. Let it cool completely at room temperature.
• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup grated carrots (2-3 peeled carrots) cup walnuts, chopped (optional) cup raisins (optional) Oats and flax seeds for the top
• 3 cups walnuts, roughly chopped
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5. Divide between the muffin cases. I like to use an ice cream scoop. Bake for 26 to 28 minutes till an inserted knife comes out clean.
• ½
• ⅓ cup olive oil
seasoning and mix together. Set aside. 2. Add the 2nd tbsp of olive oil to a large pan. Add the chicken and cook over medium-high heat until lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. 3. If the pan looks too dry, add another teaspoon of olive oil. Add the onion and pepper to the pan and cook for five minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. 4. Add the browned chicken, butternut squash and chopped tomatoes and mix well. 5. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. 6. Add the pasta, stir well to mix all the ingredients and bring to a boil. Partially cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, till the pasta is cooked and the liquid has reduced. Make sure you stir a couple of times during cooking. 7. Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese and parsley. 8. Check the seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste. 9. Garnish with parsley and serve. Banana & Carrot Muffins Walnut & Cinnamon Granola One
• 3 tbsp ground cinnamon (add less for a more subtle flavour)
“Daddy, we’ve been thinking, and these are the places we would like to go to next please.” They may have said “please”. Let’s assume they did. I would like to think we brought them up properly.
We had inherited some money which we could have saved for later but I said to Anne, “This investment will have a longterm impact on all of us, collectively and individually. I don’t know what that means yet and we will find out maybe in ten years’ time, but we will find out.” They were prophetic words.
Roonagh replied, “Will we be able to go to them all in two weeks, Daddy?” Bless, the innocence of a child. I explained they would miss a whole year of school to go around the world. I am not sure they really understood, but what kid would turn down the opportunity to skip class for an entire year?
“Can we have a think about that, Daddy, and come back tomorrow with some ideas?” Fast forward 24 hours. The kids smiled sheepishly and brandished a folded-up sheet of paper.
The answer took me by surprise.
Well, that’s what this irresponsible (or inspirational) Dad did back in 2008/09. I will let you decide which of those adjectives is most appropriate.
Why animals? No one knows. They can’t remember and I never asked. I guess they were children, and most kids love fluffy and furry animals. I had resisted requests throughout their childhoods to buy them a puppy. Perhaps this was their way of wreaking their revenge on me?
I looked at Anne and asked, “Should we do it? Should we take the kids around the world?” I expected her to put me in my place with retorts such as “get a grip” or “don’t be ridiculous”. But she replied, “Why not, what’s the worst that can happen, we have to sell the house and downsize.” Those were the words I needed to hear. The impulsive part of my personality was in overdrive.
“Where would you like to go next, kids?” Little did I know, but this simple question was about to change our lives forever.
Madagascar – Lemurs Australia – Kangaroos Canada – Polar bears Africa – Cheetahs China – Pandas Peru –GalápagosLlamasIslands – Iguanas
How on earth did that happen? How did we come up with the idea and what turned it into a reality? Well, it started during a typical family holiday one summer in Turkey.
We looked at the list agog. “Wow, what a list. We would love to go to those places as well. They sound amazing.”
Are ThereWeYet?ByIanPilbeam
Making the decision
TRAVEL 46 | Cherubs Magazine 020 8154 3664
Imagine quitting your secure job right before a recession to backpack around the world with an 8 and 10 year old. Who would do that - quit life for a whole year, pull the kids out of school for a year, pack the house up, throw a few items in a couple of rucksacks, and go travelling for a year?
The List
“Hey kids, remember that list of countries you came up with on holiday this summer? Well, we are going to go on a big trip and see them all.”
In my head I thought “I want to go to Madagascar. I want to go to Peru.” Since childhood, I had dreamed of going to Deepest Darkest Peru, home of Paddington Bear and his Great Aunt Lucy. “I want to go to Australia,” home of Kylie Minogue.
We were walking to school one crisp late Autumn morning, hand in hand. The kids were still at an age where it was cool to hold Daddy’s hand.
Intrigued, I opened the sheet of paper to find a list of countries they would like to visit. But not any old list, because next to the name of each country was an animal. It went something like this:
‘Are We There Yet?’ by Ian Pilbeam can be bought from Amazon and all mainstream/independent booksellers. Ian can also be contacted via Instagram @originalfamilytrippers or Facebook @ianpilbeamauthor. Signed copies and an audiobook are also available directly from Ian.
The first was the kids list. The list they produced in that bar in Turkey.
Last year I finally got around to putting down our adventures into a book so that other families could also be inspired to travel more, even if not for a year. From the feedback I have had I know that this was a great decision; being able to educate, inform and influence children other than my own has been a privilege. In the book, called ‘Are We There Yet?’, for reasons all parents will understand, our adventures explain not just what happened, warts and all, but also the lessons learnt and long term impact. The book is inspired by the blogs written at the time with one eye knowing that those back home, who worried about us, would read them. They were therefore ever so slightly sanitised and didn’t capture all the lows and scary moments we experienced. For example, in the blog about our wonderful time in the Galápagos Islands, you won’t find the story of how one of our children nearly drowned. Or the episode when we believed we had been kidnapped by the Chinese mafia. But these and many other stories feature in ‘Are We There Yet?’
My top tip for surviving a year together as a family on the road? Remember why you are doing it. For us it ultimately wasn’t about all those dream destinations. We were seeking quality time together as a family. Hanging out each day, especially the down days when diaries had to be written, clothes washed and plans made were special times that we would have missed out on in the humdrum of life. We have a special bond and a thousand memories that will stay with us forever.
We went to all but one of those destinations, but it was also clear that wherever we would go needed to be somewhere the kids would enjoy, be child-friendly and safe. That helped to narrow things down. In the end we visited 20 countries in four continents, crossing Africa, Asia, Oceania and South America.
How on earth do you choose which places to go for an entire year? Before long, as I immersed myself in travel guides and the internet, I was wondering “Why is it only a year, could it not be longer?” Several factors influenced where we ended up going.
of the book and movie The Killing Fields. Vietnam, the setting for Oliver Stone movies and Springsteen songs, and Chile, former domain of the Dictator General Pinochet and land of Los Desaparecidos which I had studied at University.
We are often asked about the kids’ education. Would they miss out on learning by not being in school? No is the short answer - the world became their classroom. From an educational point of view, this was the perfect age for them to skip school. They were not yet into a full curriculum. There were no exams nor qualifications to worry about. They could read, they could write, and had a basic grasp of numeracy. They observed and assimilated learning from their surroundings.
A route soon emerged. Before long we had approximate timings and a list of potential highlights: The Great Wall of China, Angkor Wat, Macchu Pichu and the Great Barrier Reef to name but a few. Little did we know that these would be supplemented by the Paralympic Games in Beijing, New Year’s Eve fireworks in Sydney Harbour, parasailing in New Zealand and many more once-in-alifetime experiences, all enjoyed together as a family. Each of us would end up with favourite countries: Rory - New Zealand perhaps because it felt a little familiar, Roonagh - Madagscar thanks to those ever so cute lemurs, Anne - Japan because it felt like nowhere else and me - Peru, because Paddington Bear can’t be wrong.
The Book
TRAVEL cherubsmagazine.com Cherubs Magazine | 47
This little family had a plan. It was a plan that would hold us in good stead, although as with all good plans, it was subject to frequent change as challenges occurred or opportunities arose.
I loved that we could visit places that were an impossibility when I was younger. South Africa, the scene of the horrors of apartheid during my formative years. Cambodia, which I had seen through the grisly prism
Roonagh believed she would sleep every night in a Premier Inn. During her final term at school, she studied earthquakes and had nightmares about us all dying in Japan. Much reassurance was needed. We certainly didn’t tell her about the massive earthquake in China just a few weeks before we left, a natural disaster that would have a significant impact on our trip, in ways we could not foresee.
Education
I often thought that our friends must have wondered “Are you mad?” I don’t think a lot of them got it. My least favourite question had to be “Did you enjoy your holiday?” Believe me, travelling for a year with your kids is many things, but it most certainly is not a holiday.
Top Tip
undulating desert scenery that the UAE is famed for. Glide down towering dunes as you try your hand at sandboarding, experience a quintessential camel ride through the Arabian Desert, or spot oryx grazing in the distance on an unforgettable desert safari.
It simply wouldn’t be a holiday to Dubai without taking time to explore the
With over 35 theme parks to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice for an actionpacked day out. Be sure to visit at least one of the following during your stay:
Motiongate Dubai: the largest Hollywoodinspired theme park in the UAE brings you entertainment from the iconic motion picture studios DreamWorks Animation, Columbia Pictures, and Lionsgate.
1. Discover the desert
2. Experience theme park thrills
Coming in at number three on our list of the ‘best things to do in Dubai with kids’ is hit the beach. Beaches in Dubai are truly in a league of their own, boasting pristine, clean sands and epic play areas. Kite Beach in particular is a family favourite, with a
Legoland® Dubai: filled with awesome attractions and wonderful workshops, this indoor/outdoor theme park is the perfect place to build memories.
IMG Worlds of Adventure: around the size of 28 football fields, this mammoth indoor
BollywoodParks™ Dubai: catch spellbinding performances and enjoy cinematic rides at the world’s first and only theme park dedicated to all things Bollywood.
48 | Cherubs Magazine
10 Fun ThingsTo Do In Dubai With Kids
By Kenwood Travel
theme park has everything from hair-rising rollercoaster rides to chilled-out cinema screenings.
Theme parks, water parks, dazzling light shows in the dark – with so much to keep the whole household entertained, it’s no surprise that Dubai is one of the top destinations in the world for a family holiday. It’s just a short 6.5-hour direct flight from the UK, meaning that it’s extremely accessible for families given that there are no pesky stopovers to worry about. So, what are the best things to do in Dubai with kids? Our Kenwood Travel Experts share their recommendations for the ultimate family getaway.
3. Savour a sun-soaked day at the beach
5. Gaze out at the city from the top of the world’s tallest building
host of activities to keep the little ones entertained from motorised water sports to trampoline parks. Many resorts in Dubai have their own private beaches too, so be sure to mention to your Kenwood Travel Consultant if it’s a stay beside the sands you’re seeking.
It’s no secret that Dubai is one of the best destinations in the world for shopping. From mega malls selling the latest couture to streetside souks trading in Arabic tea and spices, this glitzy Emirate is a shopaholic’s paradise. You could truly spend days exploring the city’s extravagant shopping centres, many of which are home to not only shops, but ice rinks, aquariums, and trampoline parks too.
8. Shop ‘til you drop
10. Hit the slopes at an indoor ski centre
Standing at an impressive 2,722 ft, the Burj Khalifa is one of the most iconic sights in all of Dubai and an absolute must-visit during your stay there. Step out onto the scenic outdoor observation terrace on Level 124 or experience a thrilling stroll along the see-through glass floor of Level 125 – each boasts an unforgettable view of the city’s stunning skyline.
From 5:45pm to 11:30pm each day, the
6. Catch a show at one of Dubai’s fountainsdancing
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What better way to cool off from Dubai’s glorious sunshine than by diving into one of the many waterparks on offer? Thrillseekers will be in their element hurtling down the world’s highest and fastest slides, and for those who prefer a bit of soft adventure, there’s also plenty of lazy rivers and wave pools to enjoy too!
4. Make a splash at a waterpark
Dubai Fountain bursts into a symphony of music, colour, and light. Witness the powerful jets shoot water 900ft in the air and marvel at the majesty as they move to the beat of popular and classic tracks from around the globe – this is one of the best free things to do in Dubai with kids.
For a taste of traditional Dubai, hop aboard one of the authentic Abras, a mode of transport that is half-boat, half-raft, and explore the gently winding riverways of Dubai Creek. Be sure to stop off at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and Bur Dubai for a glimpse into the city’s historic past.
Dubai’s aquariums are out-of-this-world, and in our opinion, you simply cannot go wrong with whichever you decide to visit. One of the most notable is the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, a 10 millionlitre tank at the heart of the Dubai Mall. You can admire the marine life for free, but for a truly unforgettable experience, we recommend paying to stroll through the 48m long walkway to witness the sight of sharks, rays, and giant grouper fish shoaling above your head.
9. Discover a world of underwater wonder at the aquarium
Book your Dubai family holiday today. Call Kenwood Travel’s UAE Experts on 020 7749 9276 or enquire online at kenwoodtravel.co.uk, and one of the team will be happy to give recommendations on the best Dubai hotels for families.
7. Enjoy a cruise along Dubai Creek
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Though it seems hard to imagine skiing in a city surrounded by desert, Dubai continues to prove that dreams are never just limited to your sleep. Found in the Mall of the Emirates is Ski Dubai, a 22,500 squaremetre wonderland of powder-white snow and 85-metre-high slopes. All abilities are catered for at this resort, so whether you’d like to enrol in a day at ski school or tear up the world’s first indoor black diamond run, there’s something for each member of the family. And whilst here, be sure to head to the Snow Park to catch a glimpse of the daily ‘March of the Penguins’ show!
Actually, last Easter with my husband and three sons in the Canary Islands. It was our last holiday together before my eldest left home to play pro football. They are all my
My husband, straightaway. He knows me better than I know myself and is always right. However, I don’t want him to know that ok!
The mantra you live by.
Favourite holiday memory?
What language would you love to learn?
A wow moment in your life so far?
If you had to pick your favourite character you play, it would be…
Tissues (may or may not have been used), RnB classics in CD format (yes I’m old skool on both accounts) and ropey-looking masks from lockdown.
Listening to gospel music. I have a deep faith in God that has carried me through a lot of life’s difficult times.
Favourite podcast when you have five minutes’ peace?
I’m in love with the Playful Den Podcast right now! I recently recorded for them. They celebrate playfulness in motherhood. So refreshing!
Italian. I blame Cher in Moonstruck. I fell in love with the language from that movie…damn you ‘80s nostalgia. We had our honeymoon in Rome and we want to go back for our 20 (we’re ancient) year wedding anniversary next year.
Androulla, the orange beautician, because she says the most shockingly true things and gets away with it as people think she isn’t very bright.
To be invisible! Imagine the tricks you could play on people.
What gives you instant calmness?
5 Minutes with Olga Thompson aka Big Fat Greek Mother
If you needed to hear a voice of comfort, who would you call?
Dark chocolate and my mum’s trahana. If you know you know.
Ultimate food weakness?
woman that delights our phone screens on a daily basis with her wonderful characters and makes us LOL so hard a little bit of wee comes out. I give you…Olga.
Miriam Margolyes’ “This Much Is True”. Complete joy in a book! Love her so much and her infectious energy. I want her to be my bf!
A small, loud, wig-wearing bearer of joy.
Which album will you have on loop and never be bored with?
Be kind to everyone. Nothing else matters in this life. Not money or fame or followers. I want to be remembered as someone who made others feel good about themselves.
Your bedside reading at the moment is…
Three things you always have in your compartment?glove
GrecoperformingbeElliveonline.ReserveyourticketsatEventbrite.co.ukSearch-ElGrecoofHornsey
favourite people with the absolute best bants. I endwantthinking,remember“Idon’tthistimetotogether.”
After I have fed all the animals in the zoo I like to lie on my bed in the evenings and watch dark comedies. My fave right now is Physical on Apple TV! Outrageously dark and set in the ‘80s. My bed is my happy place. It’s also where I get most of my sketch ideas!
Performing my show ‘El Greco of Hornsey’ at the Edinburgh Fringe to 4-star acclaim. A close call though to be fair between that and seeing Sylvester Stallone outside Planet Hollywood in Leicester Square when I was 11.
How would you describe yourself?
I want to go to America as I’ve never been.
Olga will
If you could choose one superpower…
The
Coffee to go with my banshee-screaming high-octane hangry mum-of-three-boys lifestyle.
The next destination on your list is…
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George Michael, Faith. It’s sacred. My first ever LP from Woolworths (that’s a prehistoric Wilko to you kids). I loved George growing up and wanted to marry him. Interestingly I knew his Aunty back in the Palmers Green ‘80s hood days.
A house full of boys - when do you make time for you?
Also, I’m keen to visit Aldi soon as we have run out of food. Again.
Coffee or tea?
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