Families nw london magazine jan feb 2018 issue 119

IN THIS ISSUE

Nurseries and Childcare Education Parenting What’s On

Issue 119 Jan/Feb 2018

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Welcome to the January/February issue!

CONTACT US: Families North West London Magazine Editors: Heather Waddington and Janine Mergler P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF T: 01923 237 004 E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk Listings and Features Editor: Anna Blackshaw E: Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

www.facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon @FamiliesNWLon Readership of over 60,000 local parents, carers and teachers every issue.

Published seven times a year. For families from birth to twelve.

UPCOMING ISSUE: Mar/Apr 2018 - Children’s Parties Deadline: 1 Feb 2018

IN THIS ISSUE: 6 Learn to Love Learning 7 How to get your child talking about their day 13 Ensuring your child is happy at nursery 14 30 hours Free childcare – the facts 16 Clubs, classes and parties directory

18 What’s On

Cover image: depositphotos.com

Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.

Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com. Other images have been supplied by independent sources.

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Where is Families North West London?

Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west.

You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know.

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

NEWS Wear A Hat Day is less than 3 Months away!

Get involved in Wear A Hat Day – the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event.

In 2018, it takes place on Thursday 29th March.

Don’t worry if you can’t make it that day, just choose another! Join in the fun as schools and families across the UK get involved to help raise funds for research into brain tumours.

“Wear A Hat Day is a perfect opportunity to bring the whole school together and support this game-changing charity.” – Mr Dan Gross, Deputy Head Curriculum, Beachborough School. So, register today and they’ll will send you a fundraising pack as soon as they can in January.

In 2017, families and schools came together alongside other organisations and communities across the UK and helped raise over £300,000 to fund vital research.With your help we can double this in 2018 - aiming for £600,000 which is enough to keep a group of researchers funded for a year.

So please register for Wear A Hat Day 2018 today. Thank you. Together we will find a cure. www.wearahatday.org

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NEWS Hugs and Giggles Nursery maintain their ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted!

Hugs and Giggles Nursery, Harrow is a nursery set in the wonderful grounds of Headstone Manor, a Grade I listed 14th century Manor House which is home to Harrow Museum and Heritage Centre. Children develop and learn to their fullest potential, in a nurturing and stimulating environment.

Some Key findings from the recent report were: The welcoming environment, indoors and outdoors, enables children to choose which activity they wish to take part in. The outdoor area has a large selection of resources to help children develop in all areas of their learning.

All staff work very well with parents. They continually update parents with their children’s achievements and give plenty of helpful ideas to support further learning at home.

Children are happy and show curiosity to explore and play. They make good progress in their learning overall and are well prepared for future education.

Staff are exceptionally good role models for children. They have a consistent approach to supporting good behaviour. Children behave well, follow instructions readily and respond effectively to staff. Parents are particularly pleased with how well the staff teach children to be kind, considerate, respectful and well mannered.

Visit www.hugsandgiggles.co.uk to book a viewing.

New owner for Mini Maniacs!

Rav has recently taken over NW London’s Mini-Maniacs - a children’s party entertainment agency that has been operating over the last three years.

She has always been passionate about organising events and her plans are to further develop Mini-Maniacs into a full-service children’s event management company which will include finding the venue to providing decoration, catering as well as entertainment so that parents have a hassle-free experience when organising their children’s parties and has plans to expand her business in creating bespoke surprise events for the parents too, we all need that little touch!

Check out www.mini-maniacs.com

Happy Anniversary to our local Raviv practice!

Raviv Practice London celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. A trusted SEN practice that has offered support to many children helping them reach their potential. In 2006, Founder Usha Patel trained as a Raviv Therapist, to help dyslexic children in her area. Volunteering at schools needing help with SEN children. By 2008, on seeing the amazing results, she decided to leave her full-time post in architecture and start-up Raviv Practice London.

Usha says “It was a jump into the unknown, but worth the risk.”

Usha Patel attributes the success to her belief in continued professional development always learning about the latest ideas in brain development. Raviv Practice prides itself on a holistic approach where they see the child’s strength as a tool to help build the areas of weakness. This approach is welcomed by children whose self-esteem has reached rock bottom.

If your child is struggling, contact them for a confidential chat. www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk

Families Magazine Distributors Needed in NW London!

Reliable individuals with own transport needed to drop Families North West London Magazine to specific locations covering NW2/NW6/NW10 or Northwood and Ruislip once each issue (seven times/year).

Would suit active Mum/Dad or grandparent with school-age children.

Get in touch to find out more!

Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

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Families North West London 3

NEWS Home from Home with Chilly Powder Do you prefer winter or summer in the Alps… or both? Francesca, Paul and their three children live in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people. Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer holidays for either families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities, with unrivalled in-house childcare facilities. For many returning guests Chilly Powder is considered a real home from home. www.chillypowder.com For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com

Spin a Tale during National Storytelling Week The first week of February marks National Storytelling Week, a chance to reflect on one of the oldest art forms in the world. We are all immersed in stories — from conversations retelling events in our lives, to watching our favourite television shows.

Speech and language therapists believe that storytelling is vital for children’s academic success as it promotes narrative skills and strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer a child needs to be a good speaker and listener first. But above all, storytelling is fun. Whether we are listening to someone else’s story or telling our own, inventing and adapting narratives can open doors to exciting new worlds — both real and imaginary.

Headstone Manor & Museum reopens after a 4 year, £5.7 million restoration After four years and a £5.7 million facelift, a Grade I listed manor house and its 16th and 17th century barns and grounds in Harrow, London, reopens to the public this December.

Headstone Manor, a moated manor house which stands among medieval barns and a granary, has been transformed into a multi-media museum for the London borough, documenting 1,200 years of history.

Built around 1310, Headstone Manor is the earliest surviving timber framed building in Middlesex.

It is surrounded by the only surviving complete and filled moat in Greater London which was built as a status symbol to reflect the wealth of the manor’s landlord. Owners included archbishops, lords, and even King Henry VIII. They made dramatic extensions and changes to the building, such as adding extra wings and changing the appearance of the interior and exterior of the house. Visitors can see architectural developments demonstrating the fashions of each era, including the panelling of the great hall in 1631 and the addition of a fashionable brick façade in the 1770s.

The museum’s new multimedia displays show the fascinating history of Harrow from the perspective of the people who have lived there over the ages. Headstone Manor & Museum will be open 10-4 Tuesday – Sunday, admission FREE. The Moat Cafe & Visitor Centre is open 8.30am - 4.30pm every day.

HA2 6PX; 020 8863 6720 headstonemanor.org

National Storytelling Week takes place in storytelling clubs, theatres, museums, schools, hospitals, spoken word venues, and care homes. The Society for Storytelling has lots of information as “the home of UK oral storytelling” and offers free packs for schools to download.

Mums Want More Flexible Working Opportunities

To find a local event or to look through its extensive archive visit www.sfs.org.uk

According to a survey by Workingmums.co.uk, almost three quarters of working mums identify flexible work as being crucial to getting more women into senior roles.

The survey shows that mums feel flexible working is vital for them to manage work and family life and that 60% of those who work flexibly would like even more flexibility.

So what can individuals do to help persuade their employers to agree to them working flexibly?

Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford

call: 0208 123 9346 email: jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk

Harrow (HA3), North Wembley and Bushey call: 0208 422 0676 email: niro@littlekickers.co.uk

Here are some tips: Think through what the job requires and whether the tasks you have to perform can be done at a different location ie from home, or at times outside of the standard working day. Take account of any additional costs or challenges this might involve and discuss them honestly.

Give examples of the ways in which your work can be successfully carried out under any new working pattern you are proposing, and show that it will not harm the business. Point out any business advantages.

Research some case studies, ideally in your sector that shows how the work pattern you are suggesting can be mutually beneficial to you and your employer.

If managers are dubious, suggest a trial period.

Have a compromise solution as a back-up.

For more information and flexible work opportunities, visit www. workingmums.co.uk

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Education

How children learn new things

By Anna Wright

E

very parent anticipates and remembers their little one’s first steps. All those baby milestones – rolling, sitting up, waving, crawling, talking – are eagerly aided and encouraged. But what happens when your child gets a little bit older?

“We talk about specific windows for learning some of those early skills, but every age is a window of opportunity for engaging children, showing an interest, exposing them to a wide variety of experiences,” says consultant clinical psychologist Emma Citron, who specialises in children and adolescents. “The approaches might change but children don’t stop needing that input once they reach school age.”

The science bit So what’s going on in there? Learning any new skill means building connections between brain cells called neural pathways.

Like branches on a tree – and fed by the information around them in numerous different ways – more advanced skills stem from the fundamentals already in place.

Not everyone learns in the same way, so the neural pathways for mastering the same skills can take different routes, but the more they are used, the stronger they get.

Similarly, circuits that aren’t used will weaken until eventually they no longer exist.

“Physically, emotionally, socially, in every way the development process is ongoing,” Emma emphasises. “Even a child of 9 or 10 would potentially need remedial parenting or therapy if for whatever reason they were suddenly not enabled to develop.”

“I don’t want to” The brain circuits for the most critical activities, such as breathing, are already developed at birth. Those for the next wave of core skills – moving, eating and communicating – happen instinctively within roughly the same time frame for all babies because they are at some level essential for survival.

When it comes to later skills, whether it’s swimming, riding a bike, playing chess or singing, there is no inherent drive to learn so the motivation has to come from elsewhere.

What that is will depend on each child’s own personality, abilities, confidence and interests, friends and support, access, and understanding of benefits in the longer term.

“You still have a teaching role but it’s more complicated as children get older. You need to communicate effectively, listen and have mutual trust to find the approach that works for them,” says Emma. “But whatever suits their style of learning, the same basic dos and don’ts apply…”

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Create the right environment Remember how involved you were when your baby was trying to balance blocks in a tower or put together their first jigsaw pieces? “A young child needs to be in a caring, stimulated environment, where you are making eye contact, playing, giving your attention and time, and being patient,” Emma points out. The same applies when that child is attempting to master a new skill a few years down the line.

And as parents we learn pretty quickly not to introduce anything new or challenging if it’s nap or feeding time. “That hasn’t changed. If your child has switched off because they’re tired, overloaded, working hard at school all day and being shunted from A to B to C after school, they’re not going to be ripe for learning much of anything.”

“A young child needs to be in a caring, stimulated environment, where you are making eye contact, playing, giving your attention and time, and being patient” Have fun!

Compare your time in the classroom with your children’s now, particularly at primary school, and we all recognise that professional teaching methods have changed dramatically.

“Gone are the days when you’d expect children to just ingest information,” Emma states. “It’s not all a top-down process. We know that most children learn best by being given the resources and space to work things out for themselves, with support there when it is wanted – not by being micromanaged by a so-called tiger parent!

“If it’s all seeming like a chore, something’s gone wrong. Your primary goal has to be raising well-balanced individuals who want to engage with the world with curiosity and fun.”

Fail together Those neural pathways strengthen with use so practice really does make perfect.

As beneficial as passing on your tips for the skills you do have and letting children see what can be achieved is showing that you’re not afraid to fail – and keep trying – when it’s something you can’t do. Make sure there are activities in the mix that are new to you, too – and if your child is sometimes the faster learner, they will gain confidence from that boost.

Be the best model Children will still learn – whether you want them to or not – by copying you. Of course it’s more subtle than the baby mirroring your actions, and the circle of people they will emulate in some way gets larger as they get older, taking in teachers, friends, public figures and others, but your own influences through your attitude and behaviours remains absolutely pivotal (whatever your independent pre-teen might like you to believe!).

“Do practise what you preach. It’s a very easy thing to say but one that many don’t actually do,” Emma warns. Don’t say you can’t without trying, don’t fall back on the same automatic excuses, don’t go in with a negative mindset or be overly self-critical, but – most importantly – embrace and share a positive, open-minded, approach to everyday life.

The brain circuits children are forming are powered by everything they are experiencing around them. It is their senses – the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and sensations – and their feelings and emotions that release the neurotransmitters (the chemicals in the brain) to ‘flick the switch’ on their new skills.

“Imbue your children with curiosity and passion by showing the same to them,” Emma says. “Everything else stems from this.”

Families North West London 5

Education

How can we teach children to

‘Love to Learn’?

I

remember when I was younger and there was no limit to my imagination. Today when I ask a child to tell me a story, the room is often filled with an eerie silence. So I close my eyes, and I begin. “Let’s all go to space today...” Stories and words can have a profound impact. The year 1 students applauded after the story which left me with the need to travel to many other places with them.

When they are young, we are in a rush to get them to read, which can mean stopping their minds from thinking independently as most of the focus falls upon phonics and the concept of blending letters to read words instead of focusing on the pleasure of reading. Motor skills, and writing alongside it, are very quickly introduced, often differentiating the children with natural ability or who get extra support at home from those who receive only what they are provided at school. The different ability groups are set and the competition from parents begin. Such is the system we have been given to follow. (If you haven’t read about the school system in Finland, then I think it would be an eye opener and a reminder on the importance of allowing children real freedom).

Now that we are in the system, what is it that we can do to keep up, yet maintaining a balance? From my humble experience, we need to allow children the freedom to enjoy learning at their own pace. Learning does not end after an assessment, whether one has passed or failed it. Many prominent people in society have failed many times in their life, what kept them going was their motivation to progress and learn more; their social skills. Thomas Edison’s teachers told him he was “too stupid to learn anything.”

Albert Einstein had some difficulty communicating and learning in a traditional manner. These are only 2 of many more who did not meet the general standards and pace or learning at their time. I always tell my students that my learning begins from the time I wake up. It leaves them baffled and leaves me with a smile and goal to achieve - to alter how they perceive education. How do we make children Love2learn?

I think we need to allow them the freedom of expression and thought without passing judgment. To nurture their inner strengths and to not allow their weakness to overpower their vision. What we see in them is what they will feel and believe about themselves.

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Let them create within themselves their own masterpiece.

Sukaina Mukhtar (BPhil; BEd) is an experienced teacher, magazine publisher, charity events coordinator and Mother of 3. She runs her own tutoring and learning support service lovetolearncreatively@gmail.com

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Education

How to get your child talking about their day

By Sophia Heaton

We all want to hear about our child’s day. Here are some tips for getting your child to open up when they come home. child feels went right – or wrong - in the football match or read the library book they chose with them.

Model “Sharing” about your Day “I had a great day today or I talked to nanna about…” It is important to share with your kids so they see communication modelled for them.

Ask Open-Ended Questions Avoid questions that can be answered in one word, especially with a “yes” or “no.” Try open-ended questions like, “Tell me about what you played at break today?”

Give Children Time to Unwind Give them a snack and a run before you get home. They’ll be more inclined to give you a glimpse of their day once they’ve been fed and exercised!

Play Talking Games At the dinner table everyone takes turns answering “I was glad today because…..” and “I was sad today because…..”

Use their Artwork to Start Conversations Showing interest in their work can increase self-esteem, as well as linking school and home, mentally and emotionally.

Give your Child Special One-to-One Time It could be as simple as preparing a meal.

These are times when easy conversations occur.

Know their Timetable This way you can start talking about library day, sports or art class. Discuss what your

Use ‘reflective listening’ Instead of “Are you worried about your test?” try “Lots of kids your age get worried

about tests.”

Be Ready and Available to Listen When your child wants to speak, put the device down and listen fully to them.

Try Communicating without Words.

Many children prefer to reconnect with a hug, by playing a game or even rough housing.

Avoid Face-to-Face Interrogations You might do better in situations where you’re not face-to-face like in the car.

Listen Before you Talk Sometimes your child will drop hints without your asking, like “We planted seeds today. These are perfect openings to talk together about their day.

For more information and support with speech and language development check out local service providers under child development in our directory listing on page 16 and 17 or visit https://www.familiesonline.co.uk/child/child-development/ childrens-speech-development

ROXETH MEAD SCHOOL ESTABLISHED 1859

Independent school for boys and girls between 3 years and 7+ ◆◆ Small classes ◆◆ Dedicated staff ◆◆ Excellent academic record ◆◆ Caring and supportive atmosphere ◆◆ Happy, considerate and confident children Vacancies sometimes available for 5 & 6 year olds.

Contact the Headteacher

Tel: 020 8422 2092

E-mail: info@roxethmead.com www.roxethmead.com Buckholt House, 25 Middle Road, Harrow HA2 0HW

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Education

Helping Your Child with Spelling: A Parent’s Guide

By Andrew Campbell

T

he new school year is here, and pretty soon your child may start bringing home weekly spelling lists to study. As a parent, you may be wondering, how can I help my child become a better speller?

word as it is viewed or spoken. A manual link is created to the oral, visual and auditory channels of the brain.

Firstly, it is useful to understand the different ways in which children remember spellings.

• Show your child how words can be broke down into syllables e.g. together = to-gether, discovery = dis-cov-er-y.

Visual ‘Does it look right?’ The child responds to the shapes of words and patterns of the letter-strings within them.

Auditory ‘Sound it out!’ The child recognises the relationship between sounds and letters or groups of letters and analyses words in these terms.

Kinaesthetic ‘Let the spelling come out of the end of your pencil!’ The child becomes accustomed to making specific hand-movements to produce particular words or letter strings.

Linguistic ‘Why is it spelt like that?’ The child learns to be aware of relationships between words or parts of words based on meanings, syntax, derivations etc.

Next, it is helpful to appreciate that all children have a preferred learning style and by offering your child activities which suit their style, you will help them learn more quickly and effectively.

Visual Learners learn by looking at the letter/word as it is said or written. A visual link is created to the manual, oral and auditory channels of their brain.

Oral Kinaesthetic Learners learn by saying the letter/word as it is viewed or written. An oral link is created to the manual, visual and auditory channels of the brain.

Manual Kinaesthetic Learners learn by writing/creating/modeling/tracing the letter/

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Here are some activities you can try at home with your child to help them with their spelling skills.

• Ask your child to draw pictures for each of the spelling words. Get them to write the word below the picture. Take all the pictures and create a spelling reference book.

• Create a word search with your child’s spelling words. You can do this by making a grid of 10 squares by 10 squares, writing the spelling words in the grid, then filling up the other squares with random letters. Keep a list of your child’s spelling words nearby for them to refer to.

• Together, think of ways to remember the words. For example, You HEAR with your EAR; He will be a FRIEND until the END; Big Elephants Can Always Upset Small Elephants. These types of memorisation tricks are called mnemonics.

• Encourage your child write a story using as many of their spelling words as possible and also include illustrations.

• Trace, copy and replicate. Write the word out on a sheet of paper ensuring that it is spelt correctly and is large enough to trace over. Trace over the word and say it at the same time. Then, move to the word you have just written and write it out as you say it. Turn the page over and write the word as you say it, and then check that it is spelt it correctly.

• Rainbow writing. Using coloured pencils in different ways can help to make parts of words more memorable. Highlight the tricky part of a word or write the tricky part in a different colour.

• Rearrange letters from your child’s name or other known words to make new words.

• Enjoy playing word games with your child eg. Scrabble, Boggle, Hangman and Word lotto.

• Play the ‘plasticine writing challenge’.

Flatten a piece of plasticine and use a pencil to ‘write’ a spelling word in it. Now look at the word together. After a while, smooth over the plasticine and challenge your child to write the word from memory.

When studying spelling, encourage your child to use the ‘Look, Say, Cover, Write, Check” method.

Look: first look at the whole word carefully and if there is one part of the word that is difficult, look at that part in more detail.

Say: say the word as you look at it, using different ways of pronouncing it if that will make it more memorable.

Cover: cover the word.

Write: write the word from memory, saying the word as you do so.

Check: Have you got it right? If yes, try writing it again and again. If not start again –look, say cover, write, check. Repeat the process and keep practising until the word has been spelt correctly three times Above all, ensure that your child feels confident that, as a writer, they always have your interest, admiration and support.

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Education

More Maths for Everyone

Ideas for you to explore with your family from Explore Learning - inspired by the latest budget! help children to develop the skills needed, not only in so many jobs, but also to be financially healthy. Whilst listening to the budget speech, and the chancellor’s comments on how much the country spends on debt, it is clear that we need to teach children the importance of good financial management.

I

n November 2017, the government released their budget which stated they were committed to investing more money for maths teaching in schools.

Whatever your political belief and aside from the debate, we can all get behind the chancellor’s sentiment of “more maths for everyone”.

Helping the next generation to master maths concepts, be confident mathematicians and proud problem solvers is our responsibility as educators and parents.

Charlotte Gater, Head of Education at Explore Learning added “This way we can

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back over a set period of time. This way they will start to understand about the debt they could create by using loans.

Charlotte has put together some top tips to help you help your children have a good understanding of budgets:

Learn about pay. A great activity we do with our older members at Explore Learning is to get them to research how much they would get paid for their ideal job. They then have to see how far their monthly wages would go. Looking at tax, rent, bills etc gets them to see how much disposable income they would have!

Get them involved with shopping. Give them a budget to spend for the week and get them to meal plan. Encourage them to shop around different brands or supermarkets to see if they can get more for their money.

Let’s take the fear out of maths, relate it to real life situations and encourage children to get to grips with finances. More maths for everyone…yes please!

Teach them about interest rates. Does your child turn to the bank of Mum and Dad to borrow money? Give them some options.

They can either save up their pocket money or do jobs to earn the money. You will give them the money upfront, but they then have to pay you back with interest. So, if they want £50 they have to give you £55

Explore Learning is award-winning maths and English tuition for children aged four to 14, voted number one private tuition centre in the UK! We’re confident you’ll love it so why not call to book your free trial with your nearest centre today on 033 0124 3802.

Families North West London 9

Education Independent School Open Days Please check school websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days. Listings are subject to change.

Aldenham School Elstree WD6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs (Boarding/Day) enquiries@aldenham.com

Open Day: Sat 16 Jun, 10am-12.30pm. Prep School 01923 851664.

Senior School 01923 858122

Alpha Preparatory School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs. www.alpha.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: By appointment 0208 427 1471

Buxlow Preparatory and Nursery School Wembley HA9 7QJ Boys and Girls 0 - 11yrs (Day) www.buxlowschool.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 89043615

Buckingham Prep School Pinner HA5 Boys School 4-11 years www.buckprep.org

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 2737.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Elstree WD6 Boys 5-18 yrs. www.habsboys.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8266 1700

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School Elstree WD6 Girls 4-18 yrs. www.habsgirls.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment: 020 8266 2302 email ldevine@ habsgirls.org.uk

High Elms Manor School Watford WD25, Boys and Girls 6 months – 11 years. www.highelmsmanorschool.com

Open Day: Wed 24 Jan, 9.15am & 10.15am. 01923 681103

The John Lyon School Harrow on the Hill HA2. Boys 11-18 yrs. www.johnlyon.org

Open Day: Tue 15 May, 5-7pm. 020 8515 9400

Krishna Avanti Primary School Edgware HA8. Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs.www. avanti.org.uk/kapsharrow

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8381 3344

Merchant Taylor’s Prep Rickmansworth WD3 Boys 4-13. Northwood HA6 Boys 11-18yrs www.mtpn.org.uk www.mtsn.org.uk

Open Day: Prep: By appointment. Sen Sch: Sat 12 May, 10am12.30pm. 01923 825648 (Prep) 01923 845514 (Senior)

North London Collegiate School Edgware HA8 Girls 4-18yrs. www.nlcs.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. Jun Sch 020 8952 1276, Sen Sch 020 8951 6481/6468.

Northwood College Northwood HA6. Girls 3-18 yrs. www.northwoodcollege.gdst.net

Open Day: Fri 2 Feb, Wed 9 May, 9.30-11am (Early Yrs & Jun Sch); Fri 23 Feb, Thu 3 May, 9.30-11am (Sen Sch) 01923 825446.

Orley Farm Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 Boys and Girls 4-13yr www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8869 7634/7600

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Education Independent School Open Days Quainton Hall School Harrow, HA1. Boys 2.5-13yrs, Girls 2.5-11 yrs. www. quaintonhall.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. admin@quaintonhall.org.uk 020 8861 8861

Reddiford School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9months – 11 yrs. www.reddiford.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 0660

Roxeth Mead School HA2 Boys & Girls 3-7yrs. www.roxethmead.com

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092

The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3 – Ruspini House Pre School (boys and girls aged 2-4) Cadogan House Pre-Prep and Prep Department (girls aged 4-11), Senior School (girls aged 11-18)

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 725354

Stanborough School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 4-18yrs. Boarding/Day. www.spsch.org

Open Day: By appointment 01923 673268

St Christopher’s School, Wembley HA9 8HE Boys & Girls 4 – 11 years (day) admin@stchristophersschool.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 2 Feb; Fri 2 Mar; Fri 11 May, all 10am-12pm 020 8902 5069

St John’s CofE Primary School Watford WD17 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www. stjohnswatford.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 255 017

St Helen’s School Northwood HA6. Girls, 3-18 yrs. www.sthelens.london

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 843230

St Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs. www.sthildasbushey.com

Open Day: By appointment. 0208 950 1751

St John’s School Northwood HA6 Boys aged 3-13. www.st-johns.org.uk

Open Day: Wed 23 May, 9.15am. 020 8866 0067

St. Margaret’s School Bushey WD23 Girls 4-18 yrs (boarding/day) www.stmargaretsbushey.org.uk

Open Day: Tue 20 Feb, Thu 3 May, both 9.15-11.15am. 020 8901 0872

St. Martin’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 3-13 yrs www.stmartins.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 2 Mar, 10am-12pm. 01923 825 740

St Nicholas Prep School and Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PN 3mths – 11 yrs. www.stnicholasschool.org.uk; www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8205 7153

York House Rickmansworth WD3. Boys and Girls 3-13 yrs www.york-house.com

Open Day: Sat 10 Mar, Sat 19 May, both 9.30am-12pm (Nursery-yr 8) 01923 772 395

Call us to arrange an individual appointment

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Families North West London 11

Feature

Ensuring Your Child is

Happy at Nursery

By Kristen Harding

T

he process of introducing a child to a new caring environment can throw up a number of challenges.

However, some can be prevented if your child’s nursery gets to know upfront what both you and your child need and want from the childcare arrangement.

Before a child arrives at a new nursery, nursery staff should take time to fully understand your child’s home routine. In this way, potential issues can also be nipped in the bud early.

Settling In This is a key part of the adjustment process. A change in environment can upset a child and parents are generally stressed and worried when their child is unsettled. For this reason, it’s vital that your chosen nursery takes time to help your child gently settle in. Communication between your child’s nursery and yourself is very important at this stage. You need to develop a trusting relationship with the staff and settle into the new arrangement just as much as your child does. In fact, it’s often parents that have most difficulty leaving a child behind in a new setting! However, communicating regularly and in as much detail as you need with the nursery setting can help ease your nervousness and worry. In turn, any insecurity your child is feeling will also lessen.

Separation Anxiety Regardless of the time taken beforehand, separation anxiety is a natural and sometimes unavoidable part of leaving a child at a nursery. Generally, separation anxiety lessens over time but you can help by ensuring that nursery staff understand as much as possible about your child’s individual needs, how they behave when they are sad, anxious or upset and what helps calm them. This will ensure that your child’s nursery cares for your child in the very best way during this difficult period.

Often the anxiety of a child lessens when his nursery assigns a key worker to him. By identifying one particular carer who is going to form a strong bond and connection with your child, he will have the stability of knowing there is an individual there that he can rely on.

_ Open term time _ Ofsted rating - ‘Good’ _ Soft play, Gym, Tennis, French and IT classes _ Free places government funding available for 2-5 year olds

Honey Bears Montessori Nursery

Eastcote Methodist Church, Pamela Gardens, Eastcote HA5 2QU

Tel: 020 8426 1855 077 5169 4480

info@honeybearsmontessori.co.uk

www.honeybearsmontessori.co.uk

12 Families North West London

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Feature Eating Meal times at nursery are important and can have a real impact on the confidence and comfort of a young child. What your child is used to at home may differ greatly from what occurs in the nursery setting, whether it’s the food eaten or the way in which meals are consumed.

When you visit your child’s nursery, try to do so at meal time occasionally. In a good setting, you will see nursery staff leading by example, engaging children with different food choices, helping them to learn about what they are eating and introducing new foods gradually. Meal times at nursery, as at home, should be unpressurised and enjoyable.

Potty Training This is another key milestone in your child’s development and reaching it may throw up stumbling blocks! Again, it is important to remember that each child is different and so will begin to learn at a different point and progress at a different speed to other children. A good nursery will ensure there’s no feeling of peer pressure between parents or children!

Don’t start potty training as your child is starting nursery. When you do decide to begin, ensure it’s not at a time of change or a stressful period at home. Share training methods with your child’s nursery to ensure consistency of approach. For instance, do you want nursery staff to ask your child if he would like to go to go or do you wat them to sit him on the potty at specific times of day?

Sleep It is important that home and nursery work together over nap times, as the needs of individual children differ. When a child starts at a nursery, the nursery should follow the child’s home routine before

Open 51 weeks a year Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm 15 hours and 30 hours funding places available

Open Mornings

Friday 2nd February 10am - 12noon Friday 2nd March 10am - 12noon • Excellent outdoor facilities • Open plan room • Dedicated staff team offering range of activities • Excellent transport links close by – Wembley park station at walking distance St. Christopher’s School 71 Wembley Park Drive, Wembley HA9 8HE

tel: 020 8902 5069 email: admin@stchristophersschool.org.uk

www.stchristophersnursery.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

“Communication between your child’s nursery and yourself is very important at this stage. You need to develop a trusting relationship with the staff and settle into the new arrangement just as much as your child does.” adapting it slowly to suit the nursery pattern. It’s then helpful if you try to prevent your child taking extra naps, as his routine is likely to be disrupted. If your child struggles to sleep at the nursery, a toy or blanket from home can provide comfort and help them drift off.

Whilst challenges are bound to arise during your child’s time at nursery, most particularly at the beginning, these can generally be dealt with as long as there is good communication between you and your child’s setting.

Kristen Harding is a childcare expert at Tinies Childcare UK. For more information, visit www.tinies.com

For Children aged 2 to 5 years old

Open Mornings

Friday 19th January 9.30 -12.30pm Friday 9th March 9.30 -12.30pm 15 hours and 30 hours funding places available

• A wonderful setting for children to learn and grow • High standard of qualified and caring staff • Family atmosphere • Safe secure and stimulating environment • Large Outdoor area

Open 51 weeks a year, offering part time and full time sessions Buxlow Preparatory School, 5/6 Castleton Gardens East Lane, Wembley, HA9 7QJ Tel: 0208 904 3615 Email: nursery.manager@buxlowschool.org.uk

www.buxlownursery.org.uk

Families North West London 13

Feature

Can you really get 30 Hours of Free Childcare Per Week?

By Ben Black

T

he recent increase from 15 to 30 hours of free early education and childcare per week brings with it no shortage of complications for parents looking to take advantage of the scheme – and confusion is rife. In theory, the new 30 hours of free childcare scheme should be hugely helpful for parents of 3 and 4 year olds in England who will be eligible. However, there are sure to be some difficulties in the transition and the reality may be somewhat different from what was envisaged.

Applications must be made by parents through the Government’s childcare service on the gov.uk website the term before they plan to start using free childcare. There are strict termly deadlines for application, so it’s important for parents to keep a close eye on the Government’s cut off dates - or they will miss out on funding for the following term.

If parents are eligible, they’ll receive a code that will allow them to arrange their childcare place with any childcare provider on Ofsted’s Early Years Register. This code will allow for childcare with the provider for three months, before the code expires. Parents will be notified before the expiry date, giving them the opportunity to log back in and either confirm or update their circumstances.

To be eligible, children must be 3 or 4 years old, each parent (or sole parent) must be working, based in England and earning more than £120 per week (for those aged 25 or over) and no more than £100,000 year.

Participating childcare settings include nurseries and nursery classes, playgroups and pre-schools, childminders and Sure Start Children’s Centres. The key word is ‘participating’ as not all childcare settings will be participating in the scheme.

Parents who are not eligible will be able to continue receiving 15 hours of funded childcare. Those who become ineligible after commencing to use 30 hours funded childcare will receive a ‘grace period’ of 30 hours funded care, before returning to the 15 hour entitlement.

One of the key issues is the negative impact of the 30 hours funded childcare on the business models of childcare providers.

This is because the hourly rate received by the provider from the Government may not cover the running costs of setting, leading to a funding shortfall. As a result, some providers have chosen to opt out of the scheme all together, whilst others will be charging parents for additional things such as nappies and food, or charging more for babies and children under 2 years old, meaning that the so-called ‘free’ childcare may not actually be free at all.

The consequence of childcare providers opting out of the scheme is that parents need to act as quickly as possible to secure the places that are on offer. Some providers may choose to offer only some of the funded hours, so parents may also need to consider splitting their childcare between more than one setting.

Another factor to consider is the time period over which the funded childcare hours are distributed. The existing 15 hours are usually taken weekly over 38 weeks and many participating parents in the new 30 hours scheme will be expecting to use them in the same way. However, childcare providers are perfectly entitled to offer fewer hours over a longer period. Whilst this may be helpful for parents looking to spread the hours out to cover more weeks, it will mean that you actually get fewer than 30 hours of funded childcare each week.

It is important that parents are fully aware of all their options. Check eligibility and in particular, discern whether your preferred childcare setting will offer some – or all – of the free hours and how they will implement the scheme.

Ben Black is CEO at My Family Care. You can find out more information on the new childcare options on the My Family Care website at www.myfamilycare.co.uk, as well as on the new Childcare Choices website set up by the HRMC at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk. This also gives information about the new Tax Free Childcare Scheme.

Up to 50% off your First Month’s Nursery Fee’s Limited Spaces Available - T’s & C’s Apply ✷Funding available 15 & 30 hours subject to T’s & C’s

14 Families North West London

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Mummy on the Edge

H

appy New Year and thank goodness it actually came around what with one thing and another rocking up on the news, week in week out. I’m devoting January to simple pleasures: enjoying the cornucopia of reduced party food available instore for the entire month; being a patient and kind mother while Midi-Me endures mocks; and celebrating her sweet sixteenth birthday.

Midi-Me and I have taken refuge in Yoga; having completed six classes, she has agreed to continuing with me this Spring. These semisquidgy 45 year old arms are morphing into Madonna’s sinuous and muscly 59 year old ones. And we are both bouncing around on my new rebounder in the living room. It’s basically a tiny trampoline for when it’s too cold to go for a walk. How’s that for New Year’s resolutions? It’s not just the body, the brain benefits too. I’ve now forayed into mindfulness via FutureLearn.com, the education website that provides free courses from universities all over the world. I hope to convert Midi-Me into a follower using a free app called Smiling Mind which has a bunch of programmes on there for adults, children and teens. Now that we’ve had a family phone shuffle (I got my husband’s, she got mine and my dad got hers – try teaching an 87 year old to use an iphone, the mindfulness comes in handy…) she has a bit more space on her phone and can start making space in her brain! It’s something that can be done in whatever time you have, even a couple of minutes here and there and it makes you more able to deal with an overladen plate (metaphorically speaking). You don’t need to wait until you are completely stressed out to start mindfulness exercises.

Think of it as a preventative measure. Like learning to swim (which I haven’t yet). I’m hoping it will help Midi-Me to remain calm during exams and any other Big Things that will crop up in life.

“…I still encourage Midi-Me not to be too dependent on her phone. Those little notifications are turning humans into Pavlov’s Dog…” While sending her links for mindfulness apps, I still encourage MidiMe not to be too dependent on her phone. Those little notifications are turning humans into Pavlov’s Dog and then once you are there, it’s too easy to get sucked into a cycle of watching mindless

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rubbish, especially with the involuntary queueing up of the next video. These little changes that these companies make are gradual but deeply impactful and before you know it, a harmless app that we installed to keep up with our friends has embedded itself into the core of our being. Yuck. I’m giving up.

To think I used to feel guilty watching telly with Midi-Me. Not anymore. TV is benign by comparison. Call it a shared interest.

We’ve spent the last couple of years of dinner times watching the entire back catalogue (all 350 seasons!) of Gilmore Girls which I missed the first time around. It’s about an independent, slightly wacky single mother and her studious daughter (sound familiar?) and the various romances and japes they get into and out of. I’m so sad it’s over.

Our next mutual love is for Stranger Things. It’s SO good but definitely not suitable for little ones. This latest of our televisual pursuits, we did not watch together but enjoyed in tandem. She would watch a few episodes in the space of two weeks, then I would gobble up four in one night. We would overtake one another and wait for the other to catch up and meet in the kitchen the next morning for our own watercooler moment – well, I call it our kettle moment, when she’s eating breakie and I’m staggering about looking like Joyce Byers after a heavy night, pouring myself a cup of tea, both of us gossiping about what went down in Hawkins last night. Ah, happy times.

What have we lined up next, now that we’ve no more Gilmore or Things? It’s time for Dawson’s Creek! Dawson, Joey and the rest will have our attention at dinner times from now on and we will have more fictional people to gas about while in the car or kitchen.

Anything to counterpoint the exclamations of incredulity about real life at the moment.

Listen to Angelina’s popular chat show Dessert Island Discs on live on www.thepulsehr.uk Thursdays at 10am or catch up at www.mixcloud.com/angelina-melwani *facebook.com/angelinamelwani * twitter @appleina * mynotesfromtheedge.blogspot.com *Instagram @mynotesfromtheedge

Families North West London 15

Local Clubs and Classes Directory PARTIES LEGO® Engineering Clubs, Parties And Workshops. E2 Young Engineers programmes inspire young people to be innovative critical thinkers and problem solvers by exploring aspects of engineering and science building working models using our custom made kits. Programmes available for ages 4 – 99! Build self-confidence, resilience and creativity through play! www. young-engineers.co.uk Central and West London:07522 602 122Info. westlondon@youngengineers.co.uk Hertfordshire & Middlesex: 07454 363 766 Shelina@young-engineers.co.uk  07565 195 895  Smita@ young-engineers.co.uk Mini Maniacs are an Award Finalist Party Entertainment Business. Specialising in themed and non themed children’s parties for 1-9 year olds. From princesses to Discos, Bouncy Castles to Mascots, we have it all. Our reviews are outstanding and our entertainers are unbelievable. Book today to see the magic for yourself! 07711980132  rav@mini-maniacs.com www. facebook.com/theMiniManiacs www.twitter.com/theMiniManiacs www. mini-maniacs.com Perform Parties - Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter to create fun-filled, action-packed parties. Call 0207 255 9120 or visit performparties.co.uk Silly Millie the Clown - parties for 3 - 9 year olds. Funny magic show, puppet’s, party games, silly songs & balloon animals. 020 7823 8329 or 07939 239 397  www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) Fun for kids, hassle-free for parents, birthday parties at The Windmill Studio Centre, Ruislip Manor, for 1-10 years boys & girls include invitations, party leader & assistant(s), freshly prepared food, decorations, music, lights, games, dancing, props and prizes. Optional extras - adult refreshments, face-painting and party bags. Lots of themes from Princesses and Super Heroes to Monsters, Trolls, Makers and Mad Hatters!

Modern & clean venue.  01895 624755  thewindmillstudio@gmail.com www.thewindmillstudio.com

CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS Adult Art Classes in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for adults. Weekday morning studio sessions in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo. co.uk Capital Connection Chorus - female A capella harmony (HA4) Calling women who love to sing! Particularly need lower range voices at present. Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a great group of women. Wed night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at Ruislip Community Centre.  www.capitalconnection.org.uk Eggless Cake Delights (HA) offer eggless baking, cake decorating and dessert classes for kids & adults in Harrow. Classes are held in small groups in hands on and Demo format, during weekdays, weekends and during term holidays in a friendly environment.  07737847405 or info@egglesscakedelights.com.  www.egglesscakedelights.com The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) Pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore.

Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based yoga classes for women throughout their lives. The sessions incorporate traditional yoga asanas (postures) adapted for water, water relaxations and positive life building experiences for women, mothers and mothers to be. There are AquaBellies - Aquanatal yoga for pregnancy, AquaMamas, post natal and AquaBelles aqua yoga classes suitable for all women. NEW YogaBelles: yoga designed for a unique women’s body.  07840 904887  anjli@ yogabellies.co.uk www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli

First Aid MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs.  Margaret 07814 191 395  mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk

LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258  www. cbcd.bbk.ac.uk Chinmaya UK (HA) Do you want your children to connect to their Indian culture through stories, games and celebration of festivals? Go along to Bal Vihar classes to explore culture and values in an engaging, positive environment.

Every Sunday in Harrow and Hendon for children aged 5-17.  bv@ chinmayauk.org www. chinmayauk.org 07812 146428 Club Petit Pierrot (NW3/8/11) French Parent & Toddler group for 2-4 year olds in Hampstead at the JW3 Centre (NW3). Mon from 10.30am-11.15am and will be a multi-sensory session, totally in French, with many fun and varied activities including songs, rhymes, music, arts & crafts, dances and movement, language games, and puppets…all great fun! There will also be new fun French after-school classes on Weds for 4 to 6 yr olds and 6 to 8 yr olds in St Anthony’s School for Girls, Hampstead (NW11). Multi-sensory sessions with arts & crafts and music & movement also take place in St Mark’s Church Hall, St John’s Wood/Maida Vale (NW8) on Thurs, Fri and Sat.  020 7385 5565  admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Saturday morning at 9am and 10am at St Lawrence Church in Eastcote, Pinner.  www.sansaar.org Little Stars Baby Club (HA9) A fun and friendly baby club where new mums with babies from birth to sitting can relax and meet new friends whilst babies play and explore with a range of lovely sensory toys. Every Friday 9:30-11:15am at Powell Suites @ Chalkhill Community Centre, The Welford Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley Park HA9 9FX. £2.00  0208 385 1836  littlestarswembley@gmail.com The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An Independent Practice providing an exceptionally high quality, caring and individualised service for promoting the communication needs of children.

16 Families North West London

We offer Speech and Language Therapy sessions within a modern clinic base, nurseries and schools. 01923 824 074 07956 994721  www. northwoodpractice.co.uk Portuguese for Children (NW6) Every Saturday, from 10am to 12pm, the International Gospel Church on Belsize Road will be open for children from 4 to 12 years of Brazilian-English parents to enrol. Lessons will include how to read and write and Brazilian culture, including music. Lessons run from September and February 2016 and are free.  contact@igclondon.org.uk

Outdoor Forest School Sessions for Parent and Toddlers and Home Educators starting in Oxhey Woods in January every Monday. Children are introduced to the wonders of the woodland through play, song, story telling, craft and practical skills. For more information  Emma on 07900 215512 or  www. forevergreenforestschool.com

Sign Language Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills. Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and Harrow.  www. singandsign.com

ACTIVITY CENTRES Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide range of activities available from 6mths to 12yrs. 020 8954 5759  kidzzone@ aspire.org.uk. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP JAMtots (HA4) An Interactive daytime activity centre for parents with babies and toddlers. All pay as you go with a variety of sessions that include Parent & Toddler Groups, Musical Tots, Gym Tots and one off events plus special visits from Jimmy the JAMtots Bear. 01895 624755  thewindmillstudio.com Rumble Tumble Harrow (HA1) Harrow’s only indoor supervised soft play children’s play group. Why not take advantage of the Drop & Shop facility and have a stress free shop, or book a special event in the Party Room available for all occasions. You can even relax and have a snack in the restaurant while your little ones are playing. 0208 427 8847  info@rumble-tumble.com www. rumble-tumble.com The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting activity centre that has just about everything to offer for all ages from babies to adults. 01895 624755  www. thewindmillstudio.com

MUSIC & MOVEMENT Beat Building Vibrant & energising music classes using African drums and funky percussion. Great songs and games get the imagination glowing & introduce the concepts of beats, rhythmic patterns, time keeping & also encourage sharing, taking turns and listening. A wonderful introduction to music and rhythm, beat Building is brilliantly fun! 07721 623 171  info@ beatbuilding.co.uk www. beatbuilding.co.uk www.facebook.com/beatbuilding Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 yrs with small, age-related classes. Classes are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and core music skills. New class starting in Hendon in Jan 2017. 020 8444 9435  www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk Diddi Dance Harrow & North Hillingdon (various) At diddi dance we enhance children’s endless energy and enthusiasm through funky, full of fun sessions that build confidence, co-ordination and creativity. Classes in Pinner,Ruislip & Stanmore with new ones opening soon. To book a FREE TRIAL contact tejal. patel@diddidance.com Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are filled with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement.Focusing on a range of engaging activities, the classes take you up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster!  hilda@mini-maniacs.com www.mini-maniacs.com Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning Monkey Music introduces babies and young children to music in a way they understand and enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum, written by classically trained musicians, ensures that classes are a “good fit” for pre-schoolers. Parents across the UK have voted it as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity”.

Age guides are as follows: Rock’n’ Roll from 3m, Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Classes are open 6 days a week, at venues in Uxbridge, Eastcote, Northwood, Harrow and Stanmore. 020 8427 6595  www.monkeymusic.com

SPORTS AND EXERCISE Better leisure centres (various) We exist to make community services and spaces better for everyone. That means providing access to quality community leisure and fitness facilities - and more - at a price everyone can afford.  www.better.org. uk/families Capoeira Academy UK (HA) Classes in Stanmore providing outstanding and fun classes for children aged 4+years. A unique blend of martial arts, dance, acrobatics and music; capoeira develops skills for life with inspiring and nurturing teachers. 07841342874  capoeiracademyuk@gmail.com www. capoeiracademyuk.com Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for the perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Call 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886 to book a trial session. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike! 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886  www.enjoy-a-ball. com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com Everyone Active (various) Why should your child learn to swim? Swimming is lots of fun for people of all ages and also provides loads of health benefits which can help to keep you and your children healthy and happy at the same time. What’s more, swimming is the only sport which can save your child’s life. Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental death in children, so being able to swim is an essential life-saving skill.  To find out more about learning to swim at your local leisure centre visit www. everyoneactive.com.

Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time, Field End Rd for ages 5–11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.45am, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 12.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Tracey fieldendflyers@gmail.com Harrow Junior Hockey Club (HA1) run sessions for children aged 4- 16 years on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings at The John Lyon School Playing Fields, Sudbury Hill, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3NA. Everyone welcome please contact us for more information  harrowhcjuniors@outlook.com Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet 020 8201 1084  jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk. Ruislip, Northwood/ Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford  0208 123 9346  jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley  0208 422 0676  niro@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers. co.uk Rugbytots - the UK’s first rugby based play programme for 2-7 year olds.

Focusing on developing your child’s motor skills and confidence with fun-filled programmes aimed at improving general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination. Currently classes in Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore.  For more information contact charlie@rugbytots.co.uk SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children.

All students are taught in small groups of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years (an hour and a half) Main Academy 6-16 years (3 hours). (Previously known as SportsCoach.) Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth 01923255099  sportskids@outlook.com www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk White Crane Karate School (HA8) Karate classes for ages 4 years and above held in Edgware, East Finchley, Finchley Central , Stanmore and Harrow Weald. Adult classes in Barnet. Sheena 0787 550 1674  whitecraneedgware34@hotmail. co.uk www.karatewhitecrane.co.uk Y Active (HA2) New Harrow classes booking now for children and adults at the YMCA. A beautiful studio with free parking and a play garden. Baby, Ballet, Gym, Soft Play and Classes from £4.40. 020 8832 1576  yactive@ ymcawestlondon.org www.ymcawestlondon.org

Massage & Yoga Human Values Based Yoga After school classes run in Harrow by a qualified yoga teacher with over 40 years yoga experience and over 30 years teaching yoga in various settings, including adult education and family learning, community clubs, hospitals and mental health centres. For adults and children 6-11 years.  Joyce on 07912 879 103  joycedpower@aol.com Positiv-Life Fitness (various) Specialise in Small group Personal training Pregnancy Pilates, Mum & Baby Yoga & Postnatal Pilates, Baby Massage & Fitness for Mums for those in & near Eastcote, Ruislip, Harrow, Pinner, Northwood, Uxbridge, & Maida Vale West London. info@positivlifefitness. com 07974 062 973  www.positivlifefitness.com www.facebook.com/ positivlifefitness > Twitter @PositivLifeFit YogaBelliesKidz Family yoga (HA & WD) Share the mental and physical benefits of yoga...peace of mind, relaxation and increases body strength and flexibility!

YogaBellies Mum and Baby yoga: Monday afternoons (birth to 10 mths) YogaBellies Little Angels pre-school yoga (18 mths to 4 yrs): Sat mornings, Bushey YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (children 4-12 yrs): Sat & Sun mornings, Bushey NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 yrs): Weekday evening, Bushey 07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk; www.yogabellies.co.uk/ members/anjli

Swimmimg Aqua Vie Swimming based on effortless swimming and true water confidence.

Fun classes for babies & Children from 6wks+ to all ages including Adults. New Tues, Wed & Sunday morning classes in Bushey WD23.  01923 245 772  www.aqua-vie.com or email office@aqua-vie.com Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday clubs and After school club held at Quainton Hall School. Swimming lessons also held at Merchant Taylors School and Uxendon Manor Primary School.  Splashtime Swim School 07903126486 Children’s Activities 07794078452

THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA examinations to advanced level. 07974 750 224  www.beverleydance.co.uk.

JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Truly like no other, with classes available from 2.5 years – adults, male and female plus an incredibly busy agency that is always looking for new recruits! 01895 624755  www. jam2000.co.uk Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) A new school year is here, which means that children across London and the Home Counties are taking to the stage as Jigsaw begins an exciting new term of drama, singing and dance classes; the perfect activity to escape the cold, wet October weekends.

Performing arts classes are an excellent way to build confidence and social skills and are lots of fun. For more information or to book a two-week trial,  www. jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.

Italia Conti Ruislip (HA5) Performing Arts School for students 2yrs to adult, at Haydon School in Eastcote. ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern, Street dance, Break Dance, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Singing, LAMDA, acting, Gymnastics, Lyrical and much more! Shows twice a year at Harrow Arts Centre. Call or email for a Free Trial 20 8838 8747  info@italiacontiruislip.co.uk www.italiacontiruislip. co.uk Perform (various) weekly drama, dance and singing classes. Confidence building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions for newcomers, from Saturday 2 September - Sunday 17 December 2017.  020 7255 9120  enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

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Local Clubs and Classes Directory Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Performance based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Stanmore where children aged 3-21 attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions. 01923 437693  www.SharpeAcademy. co.uk Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing.

Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by having fun!  Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599  www.stagecoach.co.uk Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, Drama and Communication Skills for children 3-18yrs.  wordworksstudio@ymail.com

Dance Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge City Centre. Classes for children ages 2 all the way through to adults.

Hip Hop, Street Dance, Gymnastics, Free Running, Breakdancing, Ballet (RAD), Tap (ISTD), Contemporary, Cheerleading, Pole Fitness, and Children’s Parties.

Classes range from beginners to advanced/competitive levels. Three fully equipped studios available for hire, at very competitive rates. Futunity UK also supply dance (all genres) and gymnastics teachers into schools to run after/ before school extra curricular sessions, and PE and PPA cover lessons. 01895 251224  admin@futunityuk.com www.futunityuk.com Harrow Theatre Dance & Pinner Theatre Dance (HA) Ballet, Modern, Tap and Street Dance. In Harrow, Pinner and Ruislip. ISTD qualified teachers and exams.

Classes for children aged 3+. Adult tap and ballet also available. Text: 07804 910 551  Info@HarrowTheatreDance.co.uk Info@PinnerTheatreDance.co.uk Instep School of Ballet (HA/WD) Trains students of all ages and abilities in ballet, tap, pointe and performance. The school offers examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (ballet) and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (tap), and all teachers are fully qualified and registered with the RAD and ISTD. They produce a summer show each year. Classes in Harrow, North Harrow and Bushey.  07814 793 772  instepschoolofballet@yahoo.co.uk www. instepschoolofballet.co.uk Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) Learn a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip-Hop and Salsa at our weekly classes. Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults the courses are Fun, Motivating and KBM offers many performance opportunities.

All dance levels welcome. Contact our friendly team for your class registration.  0208 423 9543/07944 457 984  www.kspark.co.uk Lorna Clark School of Dance (Various) Established for over 40 years, training students from 3-18 yrs - Ballet, Tap, Modern, Classical Greek and National. Royal Academy of Dance Examinations are taken in Ballet from Primary to Advanced Level and ISTD exams in all other Genre to the same standard. All classes held in South Harrow/Eastcote. Book a free No Obligation Lesson with this advert.  0208 8662105 or 01923 285380.  www.lornaclarkschoolofdance.co.uk The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations  020 8950 2457  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

ARTS AND CRAFTS Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for children and adults. On-going, small groups Monday–Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings in Term Time for children from Year 1 up. Weekday morning studio sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment. 020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@ yahoo.co.uk Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or 11-12pm at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric printing and much more! For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided. Qualified teachers. 07946 055 422  info@ mysistersandme.co.uk Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) A new and exciting Arts and Crafts activity club for children ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and holidays. They offer and Mother Toddler Group art club (aged 1-4 yrs) and an After-school/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs) Contact to book your place: Keshma 07419343105  keshma.artzania@gmail.com

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Blank Canvas Art Club (HA4) Do your kids love Art? Then welcome to the club – my classes are full of them!

Join these fun classes where I teach art techniques to 5+, 7+, 11-18’s and there’s even a new parent class for a little bit of “me” time.

Weekly term time classes and holiday workshops, with public or small group private options available in Ruislip Manor & Eastcote. With special members benefits, sibling discounts & special events there’s never been a better time to book. Book now & let them develop a love of Art that will last a lifetime!

Contact Suzi  blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com,  07773 819 603 www.Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts for the very young and their families, with lots of mess and none of the tidying up!

Exploring different materials and textures each week. Ages under 5, come dressed for mess! 0208 416 8989  www.harrowarts.com/family Stitch Club (HA5) Stitch and Sketch Club for children and teens. Start with simple hand sewing then developing sewing machine and design techniques to design and create your own items. Saturday Sketch Club develops looking and drawing skills and confidence. Also parties and one-off workshops. Adults’ weekly Dressmaking sessions and occaisional Beginners workshops.  stitch. club E: sam@stitch.club

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/EDUCATION SUPPORT 1Point4Teacher (HA) Do you have a child in KS1 and KS2? Does your child need more of a challenge? Then give 1Point4Teacher a try today. Lessons from a qualified primary school teacher, with a class ratio of 1 adult to 4 children.

English tuition on Mondays and Tuesdays, covering reading comprehension and SPAG (spellings, punctuation and grammar) with math lessons on a Wednesday.

Harrow, 5 minutes from Kenton Library.  www.1Point4Teacher.co.uk or email the Head Tutor Mrs Edwin on info@1point4teacher.co.uk Brownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units exist across the area which provide fun activities for girls aged from 5 onwards.  www. girlguiding.org.uk/interested or Peggy Brand 020 8205 7597 Champs Learning (HA1) A very structured tuition course for English, Maths, Science and 11+ exams. Courses run at Harrow College. 020 3004 9007  www.champslearning.co.uk Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes held at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every lesson is designed to complement the EYFS curriculum.

Free trials available. 020 8434 7111.  www.clickit-kids.co.uk. wendy@ clickit-kids.co.uk.

DiscoG Coding Boot Camp (various) Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses are also available. Gerard on 07767 300940  info@discogcodingacademy.com www. discogcodingacademy.com Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware. Programmes for children from 2.5-16 yrs. If your child needs a little extra help, in English maths verbal and non-verbal 4+ 7+ and 11+ preparing for entrance exams or you just want to give them every advantage, Elisa can help. 99% success rate. 020 8958 1192 07956868119  www.childrensstories.net www. kidslearnfast.co.uk Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest centre or call to book a free trial class!  www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time adjacent to Field End Junior School, Field End Road, Eastcote, HA4, for children aged 5 – 11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.15am and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 11.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves, water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Contact Tracey at fieldendflyers@gmail.com

The Harrow Woodcraft Folk (HA) Elfin group for children, 6 to 9 year olds are reopening their group after the Summer holidays on Tuesday 6th September in Central Harrow. Parents wishing to join their children should contact the District Secretary; John Woolf: 020 8428 2409 or  e-mail: harrow@woodcraft. org.uk For more information regarding Harrow Woodcraft Folk visit their web site: www. harrowwoodcraftfolk.btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime Children’s Activities limited (HA1) Pick’s up from four local school’s at the end of the school day, then take the children back to the club for a snack and the daily activity. They are open Monday- Friday 3pm-6pm Nicole 07794078452  holidays@activetime. co.uk www. activetime.co.uk Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties.

Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration. Usha Patel 07766 837 616 ushapatel.raviv@gmail.com www. integratedbrain.co.uk JKEducate Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL. 020 3488 0754  www.jkeducate.co.uk Karen Wilkin Tuition (HA) 4+/5+ tuition. One to one, tailor made, hands-on, fun sessions in the comfort of your home. Experienced Montessori teacher with excellent results in all the top schools. Term time and holiday sessions available. 07887 984 401, wilkin@afrormosia.com Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. 07985 588 085  www. knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk Leaders are Readers (HA5 & N21) Offer specialist experience and accelerated learning in their award winning Saturday School, and also run popular Summer and Winter Schools during holidays. 2 hours spent per subject, including English, Maths, Learning to Read and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. All programmes are for ages 3.5 to 11 and the success rate is 90% for helping pupils prepare to sit entrance exams, including 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+. Childcare vouchers accepted. 01992 651 300  www.leadersarereaders.co.uk The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus classroom based learning, to yr 4 and 5 students. Prepare students to sit exams for Grammar and private schools.  For a call back email your name and number to info@ thelondontutors.co.uk Love 2 Learn (HA) Experienced Primary School teacher and tutor for year 1 to year 6 in Pinner. 11-12 week session taught in small groups. Topics include Creative Writing, Mental Maths, Persuasive Writing, Public Speaking and Cross Curriculum Education. Mrs S Mukhtar. 07958 728184 lovetolearncreatively@ gmail.com Mastermind Tuition (HA) Specialists in 11+. Maths, English, Verbal and NonVerbal, Grammar & independent School Preparation. £15 per session. Classes in Harrow and Northwood. 075 10 10 50 50. www.mastermindtuition.com Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework support. 0333 12 33 445  www.mathscool.com Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11.  www.numberworksnwords.co.uk The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior Schools (NW6) - 3.30pm to 6pm term time. Play schemes available out of term-time. 0207 407 6744. admin@theplayshelter.co.uk www.theplayshelter.co.uk The Rainbow Club (various) Specialise in preparing for 3+, 4+ and 5+ entrance exams. 07850 045 471  Sonya.Thiru@gmail.com Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children on the SEN register. Reading courses are flexible with home based learning (via computer) monitored daily. Usha Patel on 07766 837 616  info@ravivpracticelondon. co.uk (registered therapist) Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the students on the courses have achieved success.  020 7683 0734  www.sdeuk.org/swherts Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA2) Learn to touch type!

Weekly lessons and intensive holiday courses for children from age 8-18.

Highly recommended for children with dyslexia. Classes are held at their office in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult classes also available.  020 8434 7111.  www.typeitforkids.co.uk. wendy@typeitforkids.co.uk.

Families North West London 17

What’s On

What’s On Children’s Theatre Fri 23 Feb - Monstersaurus! Big Wooden Horse are welcomed back with their acclaimed show Monstersaurus!, in which young inventor, Monty creates a whole world of wacky inventions and incredible monsters. This energetic show, full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem has original music and plenty of audience participation. Ages 3+

Harrow Arts Centre

Watford Colosseum

The Alban Arena Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk Wed 7 – Sat 10 Feb - St Albans Gang Show 2018 Book your seats now, so you can witness the talent of local young people, as the Gang Show takes to the Alban Arena Stage once again. Go along for performances full of uplifting and spine tingling songs, energetic dance and comedy sketches all performed by over 110 local Scouts, Guides and Young Leaders.

Artsdepot 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk Sun 21 Jan - Much Ado About Puffin On a small island…In the middle of the big sea…A man meets a bird. Join Open Attic as they traverse stormy seas and reckless tides to bring you this funny tale about a man all alone, a friendly puffin, and a whole lot of fuss over nothing. Using skilful puppetry, beautiful music by Sarah Moody, and good old fashioned storytelling, Much Ado About Puffin is about old habits, new friendships, and stepping out into the unknown! Ages 4+ Sun 11 Feb - Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs 2 When Flinn, Pearl and Tom are in the middle of their school play their old nemesis, Mr T the T-Rex, appears and kidnaps the children forcing them to hunt for the secretive Magic Cutlass; a sword that grants the holder any wish! The children are whisked away for another fantastic adventure to a world of devious dinosaurs, deep sea dangers and smelly sausages! It’s all aboard, me hearties, for a real live pirate adventure - a non-stop action packed theatrical experience with live music, puppetry and dastardly dinosaurs! Ages 3+ Sun 25 Feb - The Adventures of Pom Welcome to Spring! Yellow petals, singing birds, soft grass beneath your feet ... and here is Pom: climber of trees, chaser of butterflies.

Pom is happy, her mum is happy, and all is good.

But what’s this door in the lush green grass? This deep dark open door … you don’t want to go in there, do you? Leading early-years story-teller and performance artist Ruthie Boycott-Garnett has been commissioned by Big Imaginations to create a visual and sensory exploration of the Greek myth of Persephone. Music, moving images and puppetry will inspire and delight children from weeks old, and their grown-ups, too. A sensory theatre performance for ages 0 - 4.

18 Families North West London

The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes. 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Sat 24 Feb - Chinese New Year Extravaganza Go and join the celebration as Chinese New Year lands in Hayes with a unique and exciting show of culture. Chinese New Year Extravaganza features a team of performers showcasing amazing Chinese performing arts. From the cheerful spirit of the auspicious Lion Dance, to the majestic and awe-inspiring contortion, this show is a colourful display of cultural tradition. Witness the daring stunts of Chinese acrobatics alongside energetic kung fu performance, the ancient magic of Face Changing and more. This colourful and action-packed show is the perfect entertainment for all ages to enjoy on this auspicious occasion. Do not miss!

Cadogan Hall 5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com Sunday 21 January - The Railway Children: A Musical Adapted from E. Nesbit’s timeless classic, The Railway Children follows Bobbie, Peter and Phyllis as they move to the countryside of Edwardian England with their mother after their father disappears. In a new and unfamiliar place, the children quickly fall in love with the nearby railway, making friends and having various adventures while Mother desperately tries to make ends meet through her writing. But what will become of the people the children meet – the Russian who arrives tired and ill, the schoolboy who breaks his leg in the tunnel, or the mysterious Old Gentleman? And where is Father?

Compass Theatre Glebe Avenue, Ickenham UB10 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Thu 18 – Sun 21 Jan - Argosy Players presents Goldilocks and the Three Bears Goldilocks and her mum, Sadie Spangle, run a wonderful circus full of clowns, jugglers, acrobats, a magician and lots more. Times are tough, and they are struggling to stop the circus falling into the hands of the dastardly Benjamin Black. When Goldilocks finds the talented three bears it looks like the good times are back, but sneaky Mr Black enlists Pedro the nasty gypsy and a horrible plan is hatched.

Will Goldilocks, Sadie and the bears triumph? Go along and find out in this fun family pantomime.

A terrific treat for all the family.

Hatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com Tue 13 Feb - The Jungle Book Immersion Theatre are thrilled to bring their trademark energy to their wildest show yet, a brand new musical adaptation of family favourite, THE JUNGLE BOOK! Filled with catchy music, audience interaction, and the chance to meet the characters after the show, you are invited to join Mowgli and his friends, Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther, on a madcap jungle adventure as they meet and attempt to outwit a slithering snake, some cheeky monkeys, and the fierce tiger, Shere Khan! Funny, exciting and wildly entertaining, this larger-than-life musical will have you howling with laughter; The perfect treat for the whole family!

Pump House Lower Watford High Street, Watford WD17 01923 241 362 www.pumphouse.info Thu 8 – Sat 10 Feb - Oliver!

Bringing Charles Dickens’ beloved novel to life, Lionel Bart’s Oliver! tells the story of the young orphan, Oliver. When Oliver is picked up on the street by a boy named the Artful Dodger, he is welcomed into a gang of child pickpockets led by the conniving Fagin. When Oliver is falsely accused of a theft he didn’t commit, he is rescued by a kind and wealthy gentleman, to the dismay of Fagin’s violent sidekick, Bill Sykes. Caught in the middle is the warm-hearted Nancy, who is trapped under Bill’s thumb, but desperate to help Oliver, with tragic results. With spirited, timeless songs like “as Long as He Needs Me”, “Food, Glorious Food” and “Where is Love”, Oliver! is a musical classic.

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 (During the summer the Barge is at Richmond, TW10) 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Sat 13 Jan – Sun 18 Mar - Joey’s Circus Comes to Town A fun adventure for all the family in which Joey the Clown brings a circus to town. The Beadle wants to close the circus down but Dog Toby comes to the rescue. It features traditional characters such as Pretty Polly, Burglar Bill and Mr Punch, all on strings! Ages 3+

The Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Wed 14 – Sat 17 Feb - Joseph Featuring well know songs such as ‘Close every Door’, ‘Go Go Go Joseph’ ‘Song of the King’ ‘Any Dream Will Do’ and many more. You will not be disappointed by this incredibly talented young cast of under 18’s who are back at the Radlett Centre, following the success of ‘Les Mis’, ‘13 The Musical’ and ‘Children of Eden’, to perform the current tour version of this popular and vibrant family musical.

Sat 24 Feb - The Wind In The Willows From the peaceful pleasures of Ratty’s beloved river bank to the fearful frights

and wicked weasels of the Wild Wood, join Mole and Ratty on their marvellous adventures, along with gruff old Badger and magnificent Mr.Toad. A beautiful new adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s much loved classic by award winning theatre company Box Tale Soup, Wind in the Willows features handmade puppets, props and costume, and a charming original score. Ages 5+ Thu 1 Mar - I Believe in Unicorns This intimate show based on Michael Morpurgo’s book is set in a library full of books that hold more than stories within their pages. It is a tale of the power of books, and the bravery of a young boy called Tomas. Tomas hates reading and school, but his world is turned upside down the day he meets the Unicorn Lady ... An enchanting and interactive production, I Believe in Unicorns sparks imagination in both young and old. We challenge you not to believe in unicorns after joining Tomas’ spellbinding journey. Ages 6+

Watersmeet High St, Rickmansworth WD3 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk Thu 25 – Sat 27 Jan - RARE Productions presents: Peter Pan Featuring music and lyrics by the award-winning duo George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, join Peter and the Darling family as they are whisked away to the famous land full of colourful characters including the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily and, of course, the dastardly Captain Hook. With a spectacular mix of swashbuckling adventure, jaw dropping flying, and an infectious score, Peter Pan is guaranteed to bring forth one’s inner child, and send you reeling “Just Beyond the Stars.”

Watford Colosseum Rickmansworth Road Watford WD17 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Sat 24 – Sun 25 Feb - Peppa Pig’s Adventure Peppa Pig and friends are back in the brand new live show Peppa Pig’s Adventure! Join Peppa as she gets ready to go on an exciting camping trip to the woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. With lunchboxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor adventure, full of games, laughter and live music!

The happy campers soon settle down to sleep and listen to the gentle pitter patter of rain. Safe and warm inside their tents the excited group can look forward to morning time, when there will be lots of muddy puddles to play in!

Winston Churchill Theatre Pinn Way Ruislip HA4 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Sun 25 Feb - Hillingdon Philharmonic Orchestra presents A Family Concert: A Frozen Afternoon Hillingdon Philharmonic Orchestra invites you to a special family concert to include music from Frozen, Vivaldi’s Winter (from The Four Seasons) and Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride. Take your children along to discover the magic of seeing and hearing a full orchestra live in concert. Fun for ages 5-105, including parents and grandparents!

Wed 14 – Sat 17 Mar - Whistle Down the Wind Hillingdon Musical Society is very proud to present this powerful musical based on the original novel by Mary Hayley Bell. The innocence of youth and the prejudices of adults collide in this heart warming tale that showcases both the adult and junior cast from Hillingdon Musical Society.

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

What’s On

listings for all the family

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing (March/April 2018) send your entry by 1 Feb 2018 Email Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

www.FamiliesOnline for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

January Sat 6 Jan, Sun 4 & Wed 14 Feb, Sat 3 Mar Roman London Family Walk (EC2Y) Travel back 2000 years and walk the streets of Roman Londinium! From the Museum of London Wall to Leadenhall Market, you will see the size of Roman London AD 120 and discover its landmarks, now hidden beneath our 21st century skyscrapers. On the way, imagine you are a Roman soldier at the fort gate into the city or a gladiator as you enter the remains of the city’s amphitheatre. Listen to fascinating facts and surprising anecdotes as you explore Roman London together as a family. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

Natural History Museum Roman London Family Walk Thu 11 – Sat 13 Jan - Jack and the Beanstalk (WD4) The Kings Langley Players present ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ at Kings Langley Community Centre. This year we’re off on a magical journey to the Village of Merrydale and the Giant’s Castle for our fun-filled panto. Will Jack get a good price for Daisy the Cow? Will the Princess be forced to marry the nasty Giant?

And will the nasty Giant manage to enjoy his nap without being disturbed? This pantomime promises gags & songs a plenty! Go and join the fun! www.ticketsource.co.uk 0333 666 3366.

Thu 11 – Sun 14 Jan - Robin Hood & the Babes in the Wood (HA3) From the treacherous trails of Nottingham Forest, The Chameleons bring you Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood - the family pantomime! Everything you could expect from one of our pantos will be there.... A live panto band, song and dance and value for money! So, go and join in the fun at Claremont High School Academy.

020 8123 6443 www.thechameleons.co.uk

Fri 12 Jan - Dino Snores for Grown-ups (SW7) Ever wondered what happens when the doors close at the Natural History Museum? See for yourself as you pull an all-nighter at Dino Snores for Grown-ups, a most extraordinary sleepover. This event offers an unforgettable night of entertainment including a delicious three-course dinner, a trip through the galleries and temporary exhibitions, live music, a science show, an all-night monster movie marathon - not to mention activities such as edible insect tasting, stand-up comedy, gin sampling, a live-animal workshop and a dinosaur-themed games room. www.nhm.ac.uk Sat 13 Jan - Money Smart Kids’ Workshop (E2) This interactive workshop at the V&A Museum of Childhood lets kids learn about money, what challenges they face, and how adults can help them. Led by professors from LSE, financial literacy teachers from MyBnk, and others. Adults and children Age 8+ (booking required) 11am–12pm. www.vam.ac.uk/moc Sat 13 – Sat 20 Jan - Mother Goose (HA6) A traditional family pantomime with lots of singing and dancing and some matinee performances! At St. Edmund’s Hall in Northwood Hills.www.arrowplayers.org.uk boxoffice@arrowplayers.org.uk

Sun 14 Jan - OAE TOTS: The Fairy Queen (SE1) Keep your youngest music lovers captivated with OAE TOTS, a magical introduction to orchestra at the Royal Festival Hall. This year they travel back in time to enjoy stories of old with the evocative English music of Henry Purcell, to entertain your musical children aged 2 to 5. Take your clapping hands, singing voices and bouncing feet and meet the instruments of the orchestra. www.southbankcentre.co.uk Wed 17 Jan - Recce Racers Late (SW3) Take a recce of the National Army museum after hours and learn about army reconnaissance. Test your observation skills on a recce of the museum, make a rubber-band-powered car to take home, and compete to make the best army vehicle out of a box of bricks. Go as a team - there are prizes for the winners! Cash bar open all evening. www.nam.ac.uk Thu 18 Jan - The World of War Horse: Animals and Children in the East End (E2) This event at the V&A Museum of Childhood explores the links between children and animals during the period 1840-1919 and how places such as Jamrach’s operated by contrast with the notorious Club Row animal market. 6.30–7.30pm. www.vam.ac.uk/moc Continued on page 20

The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance

SportsKids - Multi-Sports Academy

• Ballet classes for boys & girls aged 3-18 • Outstanding Royal Academy of Dance examinations results • Established 14 years in Stanmore

Tel: 01923 255099 E: SportsKids@outlook.com

•

• •

Successful places at Royal Ballet School, Tring Park, Central School of Ballet, London Senior/Junior Ballet, London Studio Centre, Ballet West Numerous cups/medallists – British Federation of Festivals Contemporary/Jazz classes

Classes are held in the Stanmore and and Bushey Area Suzanne Van Niekerk (RAD Qualified Teacher) T: 020 8950 2457 www.vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk “Develop poise, technique and expression through dance”

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Sports Activities for 4 to 16 year olds

Sportscoach are celebrating 10 years by expanding and rebranding to

SportsKids Academy

American Football - Dodgeball - Handball - Basketball Tag Rugby - Softball - Gaelic Football - Rounders - Athletics Kwik Cricket - Gymnastics - Tennis - Climbing Wall - Fencing Lacrosse - Netball - Volleyball - Archery - Martial Arts - Kin Ball Football - Badminton - Tri Golf - Uni-Hoc We are located in Harrow and Rickmansworth

www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk Families North West London 19

What’s On

Imagine Childrens Festival - Far Far Away (c) Nick Rutter Continued from page 19

Thu 18 – Sun 21 Jan - SMP Present: The Little Mermaid (N13) SMP return to the Intimate Theatre with The Little Mermaid – A Family Pantomime. One day Mariel, the Mermaid, spots and falls in love with the handsome Prince Derek.

But the evil Sea Witch, Octavia, wants the Prince herself so sets a plan in action to use Mariel for her own wicked gain. Featuring all the traditional elements of pantomime this new show promises to warm the hearts of children of all ages and adults alike. Featuring a range of hit songs, spectacular dancing and great gags, The Little Mermaid is a fantastic family pantomime that will not disappoint. www.smptheatre.co.uk SMPTheatre@hotmail.com Thu 18 Jan – Thu 1 Feb – Effective Parenting Workshops (HA1) Workshops for every parent with a child aged 3-11 years. The 3 workshops will provide practical communication skills for everyday life and help develop your ability to bring up confident, happy and co-operative children.

Topics include positive discipline strategies; setting limits and boundaries; effective communication, and building self-esteem. At Hope Harrow from 7-9pm.

020 8863 7319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk

Fri 19 – Sun 21 Jan - London Model Engineering Exhibition 2018 (N22) The South’s Largest Model Engineering & Modelling Exhibition returns to Alexandra Palace. Go along and see the full spectrum of modelling from traditional model engineering, steam locomotives and traction engines through to the more modern gadget and boys’ toys including trucks, boats, aeroplanes, helicopters and robots. www.alexandrapalace.com Sat 20 Jan - Medieval medals at Museum of London Docklands (E14) Go along and make pilgrims badges like those that can be found on the banks of the River Thames today. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands Sat 27 Jan - Burns Night (SE10) Adults can celebrate Burns Night at Cutty Sark, the famous Clipper Ship named after one of Robert Burns’ very own most beloved poems, Tam O’Shanter. Your ticket will include a ceilidh with the aptly named Ship Band, traditional food and a wee dram o’ Cutty Sark Whisky. www.rmg.co.uk

Sat 27 – Mon 29 Jan – The Big Garden Birdwatch (various) Get your garden ready - and be part of something HUGE! The Big Garden Birdwatch is the world’s largest wildlife survey – all you need to do is register then count the birds you see in your garden or local park. ww2.rspb.org.uk Sun 28 Jan - Strictly Come Hospice 2018 (WD3) Dust off your dancing shoes and join in the Strictly ballroom dancing competition! Ever fancied learning the Cha-chacha or the Strictly Tango? Well this is your opportunity to have seven weeks of professional dance lessons, and perform at the Grande Finale being held at Watersmeet Theatre in front of an audience of 500 people and a panel of expert judges! So dust off your dancing shoes and register your interest to join the class of 2018. www.peacehospicecare.org.uk Tue 30 Jan - Jack and the Beanstalk Pantomime (WD18) Herts Inclusive Theatre are pleased to present ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ at The James Theatre, Watford Grammar School for Boys. Plenty of magic beans, a huge loveable cow, an enormous beanstalk, a gigantic giant and a massive adventure. This year’s panto looks set to be the biggest ever!! www.hit-theatre.org.uk

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Paediatric First Aid Courses Sat 20 Jan, Thurs 8 Feb, Sat 10 March - Harrow on the Hill

Suitable for Ofsted Registration.

Includes some home study.

Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85

Contact Margaret at mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk or on 07814 191 395 for bookings Other dates available

20 Families North West London

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What’s On Sun 4 Feb - Watford Half Marathon (WD18) Challenge yourself this February and take on 13.1 miles for Peace Hospice Care at Cassiobury Park. In return, all runners who raise £20 sponsorship or more are offered the chance to win one of ten places in the 10K muddy obstacle run, Push it for the Peace 2018. www.watfordhalf.co.uk Sun 4 Feb - Cancer Research UK London Winter Run 2018 (WC2N) 2017 saw a record 16,500+ runners conquer the cold to run this iconic 10k through the closedroad streets of central London, taking in the Capital’s most stunning landmarks along the way, plus loads of wintery surprises, from an epic Snow Blast-Off to giant Snow Zones. Brave the elements in 2018 for an experience akin to the running equivalent of Winter wonderland, and raise vital funds to help beat cancer sooner! The race starts at Trafalgar Square. www.londonwinterrun.co.uk Wed 7 – Sun 18 Feb - Southbank Centre’s Imagine Children’s Festival (SE1) Southbank Centre’s annual multi-arts Imagine Children’s Festival returns for its seventeenth year, with twelve days of jam-packed fun over half-term week for children and their families. With storytelling at its heart, this year’s programme includes a specially curated Royal Festival Hall event celebrating the world’s leaders and pioneers who have changed the world, to inspire the next generation of young changemakers. Take a look at the website for details of events and venues. www.southbankcentre.co.uk Fri 9 Feb – Hang About! (WD18) Free events for teens at Intu Watford from 12-5pm. Go along for a gym challenge, plus head over to the free nail bar for an express mani! Games and good times for 12-17 year olds. www.intu.co.uk/watford

Orchids at Kew Image 20 (c) RBG Kew Wed 31 Jan - Growing up in London 1930 – 1960: The First Ten Years – Home Life and the First School (E2) A series of illustrated talks by Peter Cox based on his book Growing Up in London 1930–1960 Memories of Members of the U3A. Drawing on the personal memories of a generation the talks will open up key moments in their childhoods at a pivotal moment in history. www.vam.ac.uk/moc

February Sat 3 Feb - North London’s Got Talent 2018 (N12) After the last three hugely successful shows at artsdepot, North London Hospice are hosting another exciting evening. This show is not to be missed! The acts are looking to wow a panel of professional judges and there will also be performances from Elizabeth Harris School of Dance, Studio 45 and last year’s winner Daniele Corbo. With up to 200 performers including solo singers, choirs, and dancers, this is a show for all the family. www.artsdepot.co.uk

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Sat 3 – Sun 4 Feb - Votes for Women Weekend (EC2Y) Go along to the Museum of London for a weekend of activities commemorating the centenary of the Representation of the People Act of 1918 which gave some women the right to vote for the first time. Join Digital Drama and create banners inspired by the iconic designs of the Suffragettes. Discover the hidden stories of the women and men behind the Suffragette movement through performances, digital workshops, poetry and more. For ages 10+. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sat 3 – Sun 4 Feb - Zodiac Zoo (SE10) Celebrate Chinese New Year on board Cutty Sark. Learn how to roll, loop, curl and twist paper in the animal themed paper quilling workshop to celebrate Chinese New Year. Create a beautiful picture with help from the artist and take your design home with you to decorate your room. www.rmg.co.uk

Fri 9 Feb - Movie Night at the Museum (SW7) See your science fiction favourites on the big screen at the Natural History Museum. Take a seat in Hintze Hall under Hope the blue whale, grab a drink or snack at the bar and settle in for some sci-fi action with a screening of E.T The Extra-terrestrial (1982). www.nhm.ac.uk Sat 10 – Sun 11 Feb - Vegan Life Live (N22) The team behind Vegan Life – the UK’s premier vegan magazine – invites you to embrace plant-based living with this two-day event at Alexandra Palace. Showcasing a wealth of information for both newbie vegans and veterans alike, Vegan Life Live will bring you the very best of all things vegan, including clothing, cosmetics, household products and the most delicious food and drink for the cruelty-conscious consumer. www.alexandrapalace.com Sat 10 Feb – Sun 11 Mar - Kew’s Thaiinspired Orchids Festival (TW9) This February, forget the winter blues and be immersed in a celebration of Thailand’s vibrant colours, culture, and magnificent plant life inside the tropical paradise of Kew Gardens’ Princess of Wales Conservatory. As well as the flower displays, Kew will put on a programme of evening events, with traditional dance performances, Thai cooking tips, Kew orchid expert talks, cocktail making and spa treatments. www.kew.org Continued on page 22

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What’s On Continued from page 21

Sat 10 – Sun 18 Feb Dusty’s Puddle Jumping Championships (SW17) News splash!!

Dusty’s Puddle Jumping Championships will be held at WWT London Wetland Centre during February half term. Children of all ages can grab their wellies and have fun jumping in puddles in the fresh air. Use your imagination to create the biggest, most exciting splash. Throw some shapes in the air for extra style! www.wwt.org.uk London Nature Reserve Museum of London Sat 24 Feb – Sun 4 Mar Adventures in Peter Pan’s Neverland (E14) Prepare to fly off on an adventure as the Museum of London Docklands transforms into the magical world of Neverland.

Join Peter Pan, Wendy and other characters from J.M. Barrie’s classic tale in this enchanting family day. Stumble upon scenes from the story, learn if you have what it takes to join Captain Hook’s crew, and watch an interactive screening of the beloved 1953 Disney film. In partnership with Creative Blast and run with the kind cooperation of Great Ormond Street Hospital. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-londondocklands Sun 4 Mar - EyeToEye 2018 (EC1V) Join hundreds of walkers, human and canine to walk from Moorfields Eye Hospital to the London Eye, and help fundraise to build a world beyond sight loss. Eye to Eye is a great way for patients, staff, friends and family to raise funds for Moorfields Eye Charity and to show their support for or honour a loved one.

Choose between walking four or 14 miles and make it even more fun by forming a team and walking with your family, friends and colleagues.

Every penny you raise will help fund pioneering research at Moorfields Eye Hospital to help create a future where sight loss is a thing of the past. eye2eye@moorfields.nhs.uk or on 020 7566 2486

February Half Term Sat 10 Feb - Nick Sharratt’s Big Draw Along (N12) Join acclaimed children’s writer and illustrator Nick Sharratt at Artsdepot, to find out how he creates his picture books. He’ll show you how to create a character like Tracy Beaker and share some of his very best drawing tips. Take pencils, paper and something to lean on and expect plenty of chances to join in! www.artsdepot.co.uk

Sat 10 – Sun 18 Feb - February half term: The City Today (EC2Y) Explore what you love about the city during February half term with exciting daily activities for families at the Museum of London.

See website for further details on specific events. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sun 11 – Wed 14 Feb – Camp Evolution (Essex) A half term residential camp in Essex for 9-14 year olds. Treat your child to a half term with a difference. Activities include Creating a Vision, Financial Awareness, Confidence Building, Key Thinking Skills, Communication and Social Skills, Education and Cultural Trips and Creativity & Innovation. Book before 14th Jan to get 20% off. Collection from London Brent Cross. www.campevolution.co.uk talktous@ campevoluation.co.uk 0161 706 0144 Sun 11 - Mon 19 Feb - February Frolics (AL4) Live lambing, newborn lamb bottle feeding demonstrations and a full day’s programme of fleecy fun for a baa-rilliant day out at Willows Farm. All the family can experience the joy of live lambing as hundreds of twin lambs are born during the Willows Activity Farm February Frolics event. Visitors

also have the chance to try fleecy arts and crafts in the Busy Bee Marquee and to enjoy live performances from world-famous characters PETER RABBIT™, Lily Bobtail and Benjamin Bunny in the Peter Rabbit Theatre. The fun continues with dry ice skating experience on the magical (synthetic) ice rink for a full day of wholesome fun. www.willowsactivityfarm.com Mon 12 – Sun 18 Feb - Imagine Heritage Trail (SE1) Join Southbank Centre and the Royal College of Music on their Imagine Heritage Trail, where you and your family can learn more about their rich history, explore archival material and of course hear live music. Presented in partnership with the Royal College of Music. www.southbankcentre.co.uk Tue 13 Feb - London Nature Reserves (EC2Y) Learn about hidden treasures nestled amongst London’s urban environment in this recreation of the Camley Street nature reserve hiding behind Kings Cross station. Explore re-creations of wildflowers and learn about pond life, reeds, bugs and bees. Take part in nature rubbings, identify animal footprints and learn about reducing our plastic waste to keep our parks and nature reserves clean. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Tue 13 – Wed 14 Feb - Spring Quest & Craft (NW3) A creative workshop to bring Kenwood’s world-famous paintings to life. Families will get to work together to try out different art and crafts whilst exploring the house and finding out more about its collections. Sessions will take place in the house. Just turn up between12pm-4.pm to take part. www.english-heritage.org.uk

www.activetime.co.uk 22 Families North West London

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What’s On

Natural History Museum Wed 14 Feb - Boss Baby Singing Workshop and Film Showing (HA5) Go to Harrow Arts Centre and learn some of the songs from Boss Baby with super singing star Fae Simon, so you can sing along when you watch the film! Tickets for the workshop can only be bought with tickets for the film as well. 10-10.45am following by the screening of Boss Baby at 11am. www.harrowarts.com Fri 16 Feb - Wild Zoo Workshop and Screening of Zootropolis (HA5) What is the most wonderful, wacky,

woolly and wild zoo animal you can imagine?

Go and make it at Harrow Arts Centre with expert animal designer Joni Rae-Carrack from 10-10.45am. Then stay and watch a screening of the film Zootropolis at 11am. www.harrowarts.com Sun 18 Feb - Ferdinand (WD3) See Ferdinand (U) at Watersmeet Theatre. It tells the story of a giant bull with a big heart who is he is captured and torn from his home.

Determined to return to his family, he rallies a misfit team on the ultimate adventure. Set in

Spain, Ferdinand proves you can’t judge a bull by its cover. Showings at 11am, 2pm and 5pm. www.watersmeet.co.uk/ferdinand Sat 24 Feb - Beauty and the Beast: Workshop (UB10) In anticipation of the forthcoming live show at the Compass Theatre at Easter, children are welcomed to this special musical theatre workshop teaching songs and dances from Beauty and the Beast. Spaces are limited so early booking is advised. Suitable for ages 5 to 10 only.

Workshop lasts 1 hour www.hillingdontheatres.uk Sat 24 Feb - Half Term Treat at Compass Theatre! (UB10) In anticipation of the forthcoming live show at Easter, the Beauty and the Beast events continue with this screening of the 1991 full-length animated film. Here’s your chance to go and sing along loudly with other Beauty and the Beast fans.Children must be accompanied by an adult. www.hillingdontheatres.uk

Sun 25 Feb - London Philharmonic Orchestra: FUNharmonics Family Concert (SE1) The London Philharmonic Orchestra invites you to a super-sized orchestral party celebrating the best of young music-making at the Royal Festival Hall. Joining the Orchestra are brilliant young instrumentalists and singers from London Music Masters, Junior Trinity and our south London music service partners, in a lively programme inspired by the thriving new talent in our city. www.southbankcentre.co.uk Sun 25 Feb – Fantasy Family Tree (EC2Y) Take inspiration from the photography collection at the Museum of London and create an imaginary family tree with photos of your ‘ancestors’. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

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Families North West London 23