Families North West London Magazine Issue 112 Jan Feb 2017

Issue 112: January/February 2017 www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk

FREE North West London Including North Middlesex, South Hertfordshire, North Hillingdon, Brent, Harrow and South Barnet (Queens Park, Wembley, Edgware, Stanmore, Northolt, Northwood, Watford and all the areas in between)

Nursery & Childcare

Feature issue

Bilingual Brains Coding for Kids (why Raspberry Pi(e) isn’t just a pudding!)

PLUS

What’s On, Open Days and much more inside!

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

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk

IN THIS ISSUE:

www.facebook.com/ FamiliesNWLondon @FamiliesNW Circulation 30,000+ copies every issue.

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

4 News

8 Learning About Money

10 Open Days

12 Coding for kids

16 Nurseries and childcare Feature

20 Bilingual Brains

24 Children’s Theatre

UPCOMING ISSUES: Mar/Apr 2017 Children’s Parties!

Deadline: 1 Feb 2017 May/June 2017 Camps, Childcare and Education Deadline: 1 April 2017

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.

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.

Distributed to over 30,000 families!

NEWS

Families Distributors Needed!

Reliable individuals with own transport needed to drop Families North West London Magazine to specific locations in EDGWARE and STANMORE 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

Expand your Vocabulary with Families and Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards: Overwrought adj – extremely excited or agitated. Synonyms: tense; distracted, distraught, edgy, fidgety, flustered, frantic, highly-strung, jittery, jumpy, overexcited, perturbed, strained, stressed.

Composed adj – 1. in control of one’s feelings; calm 2. made up of many parts. Synonyms: calm; as cool as a cucumber, collected, cool, levelheaded, poised, relaxed, sedate, self-possessed, serene, unruffled.

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

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NEWS Reader Offer for brand new Perform classes in Eastcote!

On a Thursday afternoon from January 2017, Perform drama, dance and singing workshops are opening a brand-new branch in Eastcote. Perform offer a unique type of children’s drama school focusing on child development with a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential.

The class size is small so it ensures lots of individual attention by the experienced actor-teachers who focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination and Concentration whilst being the best fun of the week. Classes for ages 4-7 will be held at Eastcote Methodist Church, Pamela Gardens on Thursdays at 4pm and 5pm.

In celebration of the opening of the new Eastcote classes, Perform are offering our readers a special offer! To take advantage all you have to do is get in touch on 0845 4004000 or email Perform at enquiries@ perform.org.uk to book your child’s Free Trial Lesson. Plus - if your child would like to continue you can claim a special £30 discount off your child’s first ten sessions. Quote: FAMI300116.

Looking for a flexible, home-based, part-time business?

Come and be an Area Manager with Families Online!

You’re reading this, so we hope you already love Families magazine. But did you know Families also has a new website?

Families Online re-launched in July, with 342 local websites covering the whole of the UK. Like our magazine, it is the go-to site for parents, carers and grandparents, offering all the information they need to enjoy family time in their local area.

An Area Manager plays a pivotal role in the success of each local site and is responsible for creating content for their local site, managing social media, marketing the site to local businesses and selling advertising on the site.

If you are a local parent (Barnet, Harrow, Hillingdon or St Albans) who loves exploring what your local area has to offer with your family, this opportunity may suit you! The role can be performed at home, working round the needs of your family – and all you need is a computer, at least 8-10 hours/week free and an interest in introducing other local parents to everything that’s on offer in your community! Ideal Area Managers will have an understanding of how to put together good content for the site, experience with social media and the confidence to present the site to potential clients.

So why not take a look at the site at www.familiesonline.co.uk For further information about Area Manager opportunities, contact Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

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

• •

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”

SportsKids - Multi-Sports Academy

Sports Activities for 4 to 16 year olds

Tel: 01923 255099 E: SportsKids@outlook.com 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 4

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

NEWS A FEARLESS start to the year

A New Year Means a New Term of Drama, Singing and Dance in North West London Now that the New Year is well and truly underway, what better way to kick-off 2017 than with drama, singing and dance classes in North West London?

Jigsaw has been offering weekend performing arts classes to children aged 3-18 across London and the South East for over 20 years. From musical theatre to contemporary drama and dance, the performing arts are a hugely enjoyable way for children and young adults to develop skills for life.

Jigsaw is incredibly passionate about building talent and finding success! At Jigsaw, we understand that attending a performing arts school for the first time can be an exciting but nervous experience. That is why we offer a two week trial, giving the student the opportunity to try Jigsaw first-hand before committing to a full term.

Visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk for more information, or call 0208 4474530 and book a two week trial today.

Why fearless you might ask?

And what does this even mean?

For us, a child’s educational journey goes beyond acing a quick spelling test or getting to the top of the class for a term.

It is about building long-lasting confidence that takes them through their entire life, whether it is through developing a ‘have a go attitude’, or knowing it’s ok to put their hand up without fear of a ‘silly’ question being mocked, or simply feeling excited about their next step.

It’s about nurturing a sense of pride, and a fearless attitude to learning, so that every child can become their version of amazing.

Our incredible tutors are there to support every step of the way. Rather than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’, they will ask: “are you sure?” or “can you convince me of your answer?”, allowing children to explore and push the boundaries of their thinking each day.

To celebrate the new year and all of the potential it brings, we would like to offer you a little something to help your child along their fearless learner journey.

From the 16th January until the 28th February, you’ll save £50 when you join any one of our maths and English tuition centres.

To find out which one is closest to you and to book your free trial, check out our website: explorelearning.co.uk/offer.

www.activetime.co.uk North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

5

Education

The benefits of

mindfulness in children

T

he past two decades have seen an abundance of research, and hundreds of studies conducted, about the increasingly popular practice of mindfulness.

Countless results of said studies have shown a great increase in stress, so much so that some Fortune 500 companies in the US for instance, have even employed mindfulness coaches to benefit their employees.

Specific programs for businesses around the globe have been created for their employees to help reduce stress, keep employees’ minds fresh and focused and in turn able to perform better at work and of course be happier and healthier from the inside out.

But, just what is mindfulness? And does it has the same positive effect on younger children, specifically those between the ages of three and 11?

What is mindfulness?

In short, mindfulness is a simplistic

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program of meditative activities. It is a simple, yet powerful observation free from criticism and is a new and improved way of seeing what is happening to us in our lives. Although very effective once learnt, mindfulness does of course not rid you of everyday problems and pressures, yet it does, however, provide you with the tools and mindset needed to handle them in a calmer way. This calmer way has been said to benefit not only your mind but also your heart and body, thus providing an improved way of life and a greater sense of clarity and focus.

How can mindfulness help young children?

Extensive research has shown that mindfulness can help children between the ages of three and 11. If we take a look at the developmental changes that occur within children, the physical changes and events such as starting school, socialising, and simply learning about life, it makes perfect sense to equip youngsters with

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

tools on how to deal with their emotions, and how to develop a positive outlook on life with mindfulness skills. Children can learn vital stress-relieving skills such as breathing techniques, mindful hearing and listening. If children struggle with an emotion or getting angry they can revert to mindfulness techniques to learn how to deal with, and control, those emotions.

Mindfulness and autism, ADHD and ADD The Autism Research and Treatment study undertaken by Sequeira is a piece of research that supports the notion that mindfulness meditation has a great positive effect on children with autism.

To be mindful helps one keep focused in a precise moment. Taking medication for autism, ADHD or ADD does not have longterm benefits, however, mindfulness can help long term given it is practised daily and part of one’s lifestyle, not only for children but also for adults. Parents and/ or carers who look after children with such

Education

“Extensive research has shown that mindfulness can help children between the ages of three and 11” disorders can often find themselves dealing with stress, so things such as meditation and mindful thinking can help reduce the effects of stress, thus enabling them to deal with situations in a calmer, more helpful way, to themselves and children.

Some of those with autism suffer from psychological imbalances, such as lack of rhythm. Children who struggle with this can have difficulty when trying to balance the inner and outer world, which can result in issues with interaction or distorted relationships. One area of mindfulness that may benefit these children is Mantra Meditation. This type of meditation is all about repetition, such as repeating a sound or repeating a movement or word. It’s this calm and harmonising meditation that can help to restore the child’s sense of rhythm.

Can mindfulness help your child thrive at school?

It is a sad and somewhat worrying fact that more and more children are feeling the stress and pressure of school life.

With a push to succeed academically, to make friends or even anxieties related to changing or starting new schools, these pressures are simply no good for our children.

With this in mind it is no surprise that teachers, carers and parents are looking towards proven methods of mindfulness to protect and nurture their youngsters’ mental and general wellbeing.

Some children find short yoga routines at the start or end of their day a great way to clear their mind and relax, as well as stay in tune with their mind and bodies. These sorts of activities are perfect for all ages, from very young children to the elderly.

Children who are undertaking exams may find yoga a much-needed break from studying, as even 10 minutes’ practice can provide great clarity and help to re-focus the mind.

Many practitioners are encouraging schools and parents to practise mindfulness with their children due to the plethora of proven benefits to all. For instance, Susan Kaiser Greenland has published a study named “Mindful Revolution in Education”. This informative piece goes into more detail on the ways in which mindfulness programs for children can help create a more compassionate, calmer youngster with good practices.

For more information, visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/wellbeing

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

7

Education

Books to help kids learn about money Money makes the world go around, so teaching your children the subject is pretty important! Why not read a book with them to give you a helping hand with the subject matter? After all, teaching kids finance can be difficult!

Master Money The Millionaire

What is Money?

by Allan Ahlberg

by Claire Llewellyn

Master Money is very, very rich! In fact this little boy is so rich that he even smells of money! By the age of four years old he’s managed to find buried treasure in his very own back garden! By the time he’s five, he’s found even more treasure in the sandpit at school – and by six he’s got his hands on more, yes more, at the beach! However, Mister Creep soon finds him…

This book is great for answering kid’s questions about all things money. From how to tell the difference between different notes and coins to how to get money and what to do with it. There’s also lots of notes for teachers and parents too!

It’s Not What You’ve Got!

by Dr Wayne W. Dyer Part of a series of inspirational books for kids, this one address the topic of money and abundance – linking it to children’s earliest thoughts and perceptions of money. This beautifully illustrated book presents concepts such as; money doesn’t have to define who you are, along with it doesn’t matter what other people have. Unlike many other books on the subject of money, this one doesn’t try to teach little ones how to spend and save, instead it provides a rather spiritual approach on the matter.

Noggin and the Money

by Oliver Postgate The story of a friendly Viking, Olaf the Lofty who invents money – after all, it seems like a genius idea! However, it soon seems that money is actually more trouble than it’s worth. Packed full of beautiful illustrations this book is perfect for newly independent readers looking to learn about money.

Show Me The Money

by Alvin Hall A treasure trove full of advice for parents and kids from the finance guru Alvin Hall. This book introduces children to the concept of “money makes the world go around, only if you know how to use it”. Within minutes of reading this wonderful book your kids will be entered into the crazy world of business and economics – learning everything from the history of money to how to use it.

The Story Of Money

by Martin Jenkins A hilarious look on the subject of money; perfect for kids! This thought provoking tale explains that in some parts of the world money is a stone with a hole in it, a copper slab, or a string of shells. But one thing remains the same; money makes the world go around. And it doesn’t grow on trees! In this amazing book Jenkins looks at the history of money and how it came to be involved in the electronic banking which takes place today.

If you want a little more help finding books for your kids, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk/Bookclub

Tell them you saw it in Magazine!

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North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Education

BUXLOW

OPEN DAYS

Preparatory School and Nursery Established in Wembley in 1927

19.01.17 Open Evening 6-8pm 20.01.17 Open Morning 9.30-12.30pm 21.01.17 Open Morning 9-11am 09.03.17 Open Evening 6-8pm 10.03.17 Open Morning 9.30-12.30pm 11.03.17 Open Morning 9-11am

• • • • • • • •

Individual School tours arranged by Appointment: Please telephone 020 8904 3615

• •

Co-educational.

Small classes.

High quality teaching.

Excellent academic results.

Demonstrable record of 11+ Senior School progression and scholarship.

Outstanding specialist programmes in Music, Drama, ICT, PE, French.

High expectations of behaviour Caring, warm, family-friendly and diverse community.

Persistent focus on values and attitudes.

Welcoming and inclusive Parent Association.

For further information call 020 89043615 or email admin@buxlowschool.org.uk

www.buxlowschool.org.uk

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

9

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 17 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

Bales College Kensal Town W10 Boys and Girls 11+ www.balescollege.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment 020 8960 5899 to register

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

Open Morning: Thu 19 Jan, Thu 9 Mar, Thu 27 Apr & Thu 15 Jun, 6-8pm; Fri 20 Jan, Fri 10 Mar, Fri 28 Apr & Fri 16 Jun, 9.30am-12.30pm; Sat 21 Jan, Sat 11 Mar, Sat 29 Apr & Sat 17 Jun, 9-11am. 020 89043615

Buckingham College Preparatory 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: Jun Sch - Fri 23 Jun, 9.15am. 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: Tue 24 Jan, Tue 7 Mar, Tue 2 May, Tue 13 Jun – 9.15 & 10.15am. 01923 681103

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

Open Day: Sat 23 Sep, 9.30am-12.30pm. 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

Mariposa Primary School (opening Sept 2018) Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.mariposaprimaryschool.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. admissions@mariposaprimaryschool.org.uk

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

Open Day: Sat 6 May, 10am-12.30pm (Senior School) Nursery & Rcptn by appointment. 01923 825648 (Rickmansworth) 01923 845514 (Northwood)

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.co.uk

Open Day: Wed 1 Mar, Tue 27 Jun, 9.30-11am (Sch at work).

Mon 6 Feb, Tue 2 May, 9.30-11am (nursery & rcptn) 01923 825446.

Call us to arrange an individual appointment

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North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

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

Open Day: Sat 13 May, 10am. 020 8869 7634/7600

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.org.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

Saint Jérôme CofE Bilingual School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.stjeromebilingual.org

Open Day: By appointment. 020 7932 1178

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 13 Jan, Wed 8 Feb, both 10am-12pm. 020 8902 5069

St John’s CofE Primary School (opening Sept 2016) 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: Wed 14 Jun, 9.30am-12pm (whole sch) 01923 843230

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

Open Day: Fri 19 May. 0208 950 1751

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

Open Day: Wed 24 May, 9.15am. 020 8866 0067

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

Open Day: By appointment 020 8901 0872

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

Open Day: Fri 3 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: Fri 20 Jan, Fri 24 Feb, Fri 17 Mar, all 9.30am-12pm.

020 8205 7153

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

Open Day: Sat 11 Mar, Sat 13 May, all 9.30am-12pm. 01923 772 395

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

11

Education

CODING FOR KIDS If you think a ‘Raspberry Pie’ is just a summer pastry pudding, think again!

W

e are living in a world dominated by technology, understanding hardware and software is now as important as reading and writing and is essential to surviving in the 21st Century. Get inspired and join the digital revolution today!

How to get your child involved in coding Computers and technology are fast taking over the modern world, and becoming an integral part of our lives. While previous generations didn’t have access to this technology until they grew older, nowadays computer sciences are present in children’s lives from a much younger age. As a result, it’s becoming vital to educate our children correctly, making them more aware and safe as they grow, and preparing them for future developments and industries as they reach adulthood.

What is coding?

First of all, what exactly is coding and what is it used for?

Coding can be difficult to understand, as there is no limit to how advanced and detailed it is. But coding is basically what makes the programmes in computer systems and technology that we use every day. It tells our computers and smartphones what to do; from setting a spin cycle on a washing machine to sending an email on your laptop, coding is the building blocks of all technology.

So why do our children need to learn to code?

Teaching children coding is quickly becoming a vital part of their education, and is even now a part of the national curriculum. It

teaches them basic life skills as well as preparing them for the future.

Even at a basic level, coding and programming are difficult. For children, learning at a young age will test them and encourage them to think differently in order to work around a problem. Coding is a great way for children to develop important problem-solving skills, in a way which interests and fulfils them. After learning the basics for yourself, you will quickly recognise the similarities between learning to code and learning another language.

Understanding the rules and structures of the HTML codes teaches children how languages are created and differ from each other.

Learning these at a young age opens a child’s mind when it comes to understanding foreign languages, and can make it easier for them to understand these later on.

With more careers available in technology than ever before, computer sciences are becoming as important for job opportunities as sciences and languages. Engineers, computer technicians, web developers and scientists all use coding and programming in their daily work life, and more jobs and careers are being created as technology develops further.

How can you teach coding to your child?

Any child that can use a smartphone or tablet can learn some level of coding and programming. There are many ways to teach them the basics and into further developments, but as with any learning, it needs to be fun and interesting. For many children, coding can become a hobby and passion in their life, often without them even realising the importance of what they are learning.

St. Christopher’s School Wembley Park Individual School tours arranged by Appointment: Please telephone 0208 902 5069

Open Mornings Nursery & School - Friday 13th January 2017, 10am-12noon Nursery & School - Wednesday 8th February 2017, 10am-12noon • Excellent academic results both at 11+ exams and in SATs exams • Boys and girls 2 – 11 years • Small classes • Caring environment • Strong musical emphasis • Numerous educational outings • New refurbished building and IT facilities St Christopher’s School 71 Wembley Park Drive, Middlesex HA9 8HE Tel: 0208 902 5069

Visit our website http://stchristophersschool.org.uk 12

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Education to computer science developments. The creators want to increase the diversity of programmers, and encourage young girls and underrepresented minorities to become more involved in coding.

With a multitude of online courses and useful information, this site is brilliant for learning at home and in the classroom.

There are many other apps, games and websites with endless resources for both your children and you to learn coding and develop your understanding of technology. As a parent, learning alongside your child will not only allow you to expand your own knowledge, but it will encourage them to take an interest. Work together through tasks and games, keeping the emphasis on fun.

You will be surprised at how quickly they pick up the basics!

For more information about helping your kids get learning visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/education

Here are a few ways to help your little ones grow in the subject of coding: Daisy the Dinosaur app This free app is ideal for younger children and teaches them the very basics of coding while making it feel like a fun and colourful game. They quickly pick up the rules and methods, while making Daisy the dinosaur dance around on the screen and follow the instructions.

Hopscotch app Created by the same people as Daisy the Dinosaur, this app is ideal for teaching yourself and your children the coding basics in a slightly more in depth way. This app has won many awards, such as ‘Parents Magazine: Best Apps for Families’ and ‘Children’s Technology Review: Best Educational Technology’, so is essential for most families. It allows children to make and play on their own games, publishing them online for others to see as well.

Code.org This website was launched in 2013 with the aim to expand access

DiscoG Coding Academy uses the Raspberry Pi – a credit card sized computer – to teach children and adults of all ages to code. They offer four unique coding programmes for introducing the Python Programming Language to new users, including their Young Coders Course, for children aged 9-14. It is an ideal introduction to the world of coding. If you find your child has some free-time in their weekly diary now that their 11+ exams are now over, this may be the perfect time to discover a new skill that could prove valuable to your child’s future.

Founder Gerard Papet, has developed a structured yet flexible approach to learning in a relaxed and supportive environment that encourages self-direction and innovative thinking. This hands-on tutor-led approach to learning guides students to deepen their understanding of key topics in technology such as writing codes to control electronic circuits, creating fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and using Python Turtle to draw digital art. www.discogcodingacademy.com

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

13

Education

How to make maths fun for kids

M

aths is one of the fundamental skills that all children need to acquire, and there are plenty of ways you can make maths fun through the use of games and maths activities at home.

Numeracy targets are fundamental to the National Curriculum and to primary school testing and that can seem as intimidating to you as to your child. But there are some simple strategies you can put in place that can make maths fun for your kids and reinforce how important those life skills are.

The way maths is taught in schools has changed fundamentally over the past few years so, who knows? You may end up learning something new, too.

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North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Do your homework Before you can support your child’s maths learning at home, you’ll need to find out about the way they learn maths at school. Do some homework on modern maths methods like number lines and gridding, and find out whether your child’s school offers maths support classes for parents. If not, there are some excellent resources available online like the family maths toolkit from national numeracy or the ‘Maths for Mums and Dads’ books by Mike Askew and Rob Eastaway.

Maths by stealth There are plenty of ways you can incorporate maths into everyday life, which is an excellent way of letting children know how

Education important numeracy skills are outside of the classroom. Next time you have a cake or a pizza, ask them to divide it into quarters or thirds or an even number of portions for the number of people eating it. Baking isn’t just a pleasurable activity to do with your kids, it’s one of the very best ways of embedding the importance of weights and measures. They’ll also need to keep an eye on the clock to know when their goodies are ready to come out of the oven. Meanwhile, every time you go to the shops, encourage them to add as they go and then make their best estimate of the final bill.

From calculating the change they should receive when they buy an ice cream to keeping score in a friendly game of football, everyday maths really is everywhere!

“Before you can support your child’s maths learning at home, you’ll need to find out about the way they learn maths at school.”

Learn with and from your children As the family maths toolkit points out, maths is not a can or cannot subject but something we can all improve, however old we are.

When your children start to bring home maths homework, take the opportunity to learn about new maths concepts from them and show them real world examples of how to put those skills into practice - by checking your shopping or phone bill. Encourage them to contextualise a newly acquired skill by putting it into practice around the home, whether it’s telling you the time their favourite TV show comes on or estimating how long their bath takes to run. And always praise their effort rather than their talent, to reinforce the message that by working hard anyone can improve their maths skills.

To find out more about helping your child learn visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/education

Make tech and tables count There are numerous maths apps available for children of all ages, from simple counting games to more advanced calculations. Doodle Maths and Mr Thorne’s Maths Universe should get even committed young mathphobes practising their numeracy on their tablets and smartphones. Percy Parker Sing Your Times Tables and Squeebles Times Tables are both excellent apps for embedding times tables in young brains. Why not try singing along with Percy Parker on your next long car journey? For older children facing their end of primary school tests, ensure that they know not just the multipliers but the divisors too, up to 12 x 12.

Try gamification In other words, get out some old fashioned board games. Children learn best when an activity is fun, and they’re usually unaware that they’re learning through playing games. Dominoes is an excellent game for practising basic maths concepts, as is Snakes and Ladders. They’ll be having too much fun to notice they’re adding and subtracting and recognising basic number patterns. For older children, Monopoly introduces more sophisticated numeracy skills and Scrabble is a brilliant way to practise both numeracy and literacy. Board games are also valuable for introducing related concepts like strategy, logic and reasoning skills into the mix.

Make it more formal As your children’s maths skills progress, you can begin to make their home learning more formalised. There are any number of online maths resources available and your school may encourage at-home use of a programme like Mathletics to challenge and reinforce skills learned in the classroom. These online resources usually feature progressive levels so you can easily track your child’s progress but do check before you sign up to a paid programme that it’s compatible with the National Curriculum.

Although it’s easy to assume that children will prefer working on the computer, many also enjoy age-appropriate workbooks, with stickers to reward their progress.

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

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Nurseries

How to choose your child’s nursery It’s one of the most important decisions you’ve made for your child in his or her life so far. So which nursery is the right one – and how do you know? Joanna Moorhead shares some tips

T

here are all sorts of different nurseries out there. Big ones, small ones; ones run by the local council, and ones run by independent companies. There are nurseries attached to primary schools, and there are stand-alone nurseries. When you start out looking for one, the plethora of what’s out there can make it all seem very daunting.

But here’s the first, the most important, and possibly even the only thing you need to know about how to make your choice. Listen to the voice inside your head, heed your instinct about what’s right for your child, and you’ll almost certainly make the ‘correct’ choice. Because the truth, of course, is that there isn’t a ‘right’ nursery or a ‘wrong’ one; there is, however, a nursery that will suit your

child better than some others, because it will mesh in with your own and your partner’s ideas about how to raise a child, and what matters most in his or her life. All of which is why what you feel inside you about a nursery will give you the biggest guide as to what to go on.

Looking round To kick the process off, you’ll need to put together a list of nurseries in your area (or perhaps in the area where you work, if you’re thinking your child can be cared for at nursery while you work nearby). Look at the Ofsted reports for any you think sound promising. Think about what factors matter most to you in a nursery (see our checklist) and then make appointments to look around a selection of those that have, or might have, vacancies.

When you look round, don’t be too anxious about all the questions you need to ask or whether you’re going to miss something vital. Instead, switch on all your ‘vibes’ and take in the holistic sense of the place. Does it feel friendly, and welcoming, and a fun place to be, from what you can see of it? Do staff treat you warmly – are you convinced by what they’re telling you? Do you, in a nutshell, feel a sense of confidence about the place; would you feel confident about leaving the most important person in your life, your child, here in the care of the people you’ve met? If the answer is yes, the nursery you’ve just seen is a possible one for you; if you have any doubts whatsoever about this most crucial thing, whether you’re confident about leaving your child there, move on.

For more advice on choosing a nursery visit www.familiesonline.co.uk

St Nicholas

Preparatory School and Nursery– founded 1937 NW London (Kingsbury/Wembley) An independent Day School and Nursery for age 3 months to 11 years www.stnicholasschool.org.uk Individual School tours arranged by Appointment: Please telephone 020 8205 7153 • Newly refurbished • Small classes and bright, airy classrooms • Great results in 11+ examinations • A caring, nurturing environment with a family atmosphere • After-school care and clubs • Interactive whiteboards in every classroom

We provide private education at a competitive price

Open Mornings: January 20, February 24, March 17

Address: 22 Salmon Street, Kingsbury, NW9 8PN E: admin@stnicholasschool.org.uk 16

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Tel: 020 8205 7153

Nurseries How can children be supported with the development of early literacy skills -

the skills of reading and writing?

A

good childcare setting will encourage children to develop their own skills by giving ample opportunities to talk about their own experiences or to retell their own story. Actively listening to your child will help them develop by offering new suggestions on what might happen next.

Remember that it is best if the television and your phone is off as this allows for uninterrupted language.

During the day the children should have access to a variety of books, stories, music as well as resources to encourage early reading, threading, tick charts, different size paper, pens and messy activities to encourage writing.

Encourage children to mark make both indoors and outdoors. Children will benefit from access to a variety of resources such as paint brushes, rollers, pens, crayons. When your child is mark making this may seem like scribbling to you but it all has a meaning, as time goes on your child’s hand skills develop

and they begin to form letters. These letters may not be in the correct order but they can tell you what it says.

Encourage your child to listen to outside noises, see what they can hear, point out signs as you walk along the road such as bus stop, names of shops, café. This will help your child to start to realise that these marks have meanings and will help your child in the first stages of reading.

Books are part of the child’s learning and by reading stories to them and using your finger under the words this will again emphasize and show your child that these marks in a book have meaning to a story. Let your child hold the book and hold their finger under the words as you read. This will help them to see words or letters to start off with.

Activities to encourage reading and writing at home.

Put some sand, glitter, cornflour, flour into a flat tray and allow your child to use their fingers to make marks, this will help develop their fine motor skills. You can even fill a

“Children will benefit from access to a variety of resources such as paint brushes, rollers, pens, crayons. ” sandwich bag with child friendly paint, seal the bag well and remove excess air. Your child can then move their fingers over the bag and use this to draw shapes, letters or make marks. Praise your child and be interested in what they are doing. Enjoy!!!

Marie Campbell – The Little Academy Day Nursery www.thelittleacademy.co.uk

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

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Nurseries

Learn Language

by Example Children’s capacity to learn language is staggering, and the right environment makes all the difference.

I

t is amazing that young children, with little understanding of the things going on around them, nevertheless seem to learn all the basics of a new language with total ease and without anyone teaching them. No one tells them what order to put the words in or how to pronounce the particular sounds. They simply soak up the words that surround them and speak.

At this time in their lives, children have a special sensitivity to the sound of the human voice and they will seek it out above any other sound in their environment. It is this that urges the small baby to focus on the lips of people that speak to them so that they can imitate what they see and hear and eventually make these sounds themselves. And it is this sensitivity that means that they can learn a new language in the time that most adults could only learn how to ask for a cup of coffee in another language. But this “sensitive period” does not last forever and the language that your child speaks will be as rich or as meagre as the language that they have been exposed to during the first six years of their lives.

“Current research tells us that children who are read to regularly develop larger vocabularies and learn to read more easily.”

So what can you do to make sure that your child makes the most of this unique window of opportunity when learning how to communicate and express himself?

Create an environment rich in spoken language Long before they can speak, children absorb the words you say, complex words as easily as simple words. Try to use precise and accurate words to your child.

So instead of just saying “spoon” we can say “teaspoon” or “tablespoon”. You can give precise names for everything in your child’s world. Why not say “rose”, “tulip”, or rhododendron”? Children learn these words as easily as they learn the word “flower”.

Tell them you saw it in

_ 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

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North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Children learn new words by hearing these words used many times in similar contexts, so when your child points at something because they don’t have the word for it, you can say , “Would you like the orange juice?” and later, “Have you finished drinking your orange juice now?”

The repeated use of words in context helps them to learn them more quickly.

In what seems like no time at all, your words will become their words, so make sure that all the words your child hears are the ones that you would like them to use, and don’t assume that just because they can’t speak, they don’t understand or won’t be able to pick up what you are saying.

Current research tells us that children who are read to regularly develop larger vocabularies and learn to read more easily.

You can start to read to your children from the very beginning of their lives. It doesn’t matter if you don’t think they understand all of the words - because this is how they learn new ones.

Jethryn Hall is the public liaison for Maria Montessori Training Organisation

Magazine!

Nurseries

Encouraging Independence in our Children

By Alison Banks

I

loved doing everything for my first son.

He suffered some serious asthma attacks when he was little, the terror I felt made me extra-protective. Later, it became clear that he is severely dyslexic. I felt he needed my help.

Whilst I felt that I was doing the right thing at the time, the help I gave my first son has meant it has taken him a long time to grow up. He didn’t learn about failure until he was much older and so he didn’t develop the normal resilience to and tolerance of difficult situations that other children did. If I can pass anything on to you from my own experience, it is that it is not kind in the long term to over-manage our children.

I am not talking about love and support.

This they absolutely do need. What I’m talking about is recognizing the difference between love and support and overmanaging. Although it’s hard, granting independence is what we have to do if we wish to avoid raising an adult who still brings his washing home at age 40!

Children should grow, flourish and become independent under our protection.

The “letting go” process needs to be gradual. If it happens too soon and too quickly, young children find independence frightening and they are likely to become withdrawn or overly clingy.

Dorothy Einon, Lecturer in Psychology at University College in London suggests that from the age of 6 to 9 months, little ones

“Although it’s hard, granting independence is what we have to do if we wish to avoid raising an adult who still brings his washing home at age 40!” can be encouraged to do age-appropriate tasks independently. Babies of this age can feed themselves with tiny sandwiches and bits of banana and hold a spoon when you are feeding them. They can also hold a cup or bottle.

By the time your child is one, they can practice their fine finger skills by scribbling on a piece of card with a fat crayon.

Two year olds can start to learn to dress themselves slowly. Help them by choosing clothing with elastic waistbands, Velcro or clothing that slips on with zips and buttons already partly closed. By the time your child is three, they will probably be able to manage some clothes themselves, if they are laid out so they can be lifted in the right way.

A three year old can set the table, help with housework, and put away toys – particularly if you make a game of it. Put on a CD and see if your child can pick everything up before the music stops!

Once children reach school age, our communication with them is key in teaching them how to be independent.

Dorothy Einon suggests that we can do this by:

Teaching children to voice their own opinions Encouraging children to talk. Find a time each day when you can sit down together and discuss your day. Ask them for an opinion and wait for their answer.

Answering children when they ask why and explaining things in simple terms.

Another important way of encouraging our children to be independent is by letting them take risks. These days the world is a more dangerous place than it used to be. Parents fear losing their kids and do whatever they can to protect them.

However, children need to take healthy risks and “fall” a few times to learn that it’s normal and how to deal with it.

Alison Banks is a mother of three and founder and owner of Parenting Tutor. www.parenting tutor.co.uk

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

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Nurseries

The little guide to

little bilingual brains Dr Evelyne Mercure

I

nfants and young children have an impressive capacity for learning languages. They are curious, very eager to communicate and their brains are designed for fast learning.

Bilingual families have an interesting opportunity of making the most of these early learning capacities in teaching their children two languages from birth.

There are several interesting advantages to raising bilingual children.

Bilingualism does not cause language delays. Bilingual children usually learn two languages at the same pace as monolingual children are learning one. For example, bilinguals say their first words and start combining words into sentences at the same age as monolinguals. Bilinguals may sometimes appear to know less words than monolinguals, but this is usually because their vocabulary is divided between two languages.

Learning two languages encourages children to think about languages. Young monolinguals might struggle to recognise that ‘caterpillar’ is a bigger word than ‘whale’ because they find it difficult to dissociate a word from its meaning. Bilingualism attracts children’s attention to language itself, making children more aware of the sounds, words and regularities in languages. This gives them a head start in school when learning phonics or grammar rules.

Bilingualism might make your child better at multi-tasking or listening to someone speaking in a noisy environment. When speaking one of their languages, bilinguals must inhibit the impulse to use words in their other language. To achieve this task, they activate parts of their brain involved in cognitive control. This extra practice at controlling their own thoughts may lead to a ‘bilingual advantage’ in certain cognitive tasks.

Mastering two languages will give children a better understanding of their family’s cultural background. The most unique aspects of a culture always risk getting lost in translation.

For this reason, being bilingual helps children become ‘bicultural’, making them more aware of cultural differences and more likely to take part in two cultures.

Every family and every child is different. There are a million different ways of raising bilingual children and the most important is to find a way that feels right for your family.

Here are a few tips that can help making these decisions for your family.

Maximise face-to-face communication. From the first days of life, babies love making eye contact and hearing their loved ones speak, vocalise and sing. Face-to-face communication is the motor of language learning and early experience is key. Making sure you talk to your baby as much as possible, and you involve your child in as much conversation as possible will lead to better abilities in one, two or more languages.

Have a plan. It is important to think about what ‘bilingualism’ means for your family. Would you like your child to have a basic understanding of another language? Are you hoping for your child to be fluent in two languages? Or read and write in two different languages? Make sure you provide plenty of experience for your child to achieve each of these goals. It might be a good idea to decide on a language to be used at home. One parent may decide to use one language when addressing their child, while the other parent will use a different language. Think of the language(s) you want to use when reading to your child or singing to them. The more exposure your child will get in one language, the more fluent they are likely to become in that language.

Keep it fun. Your child’s motivation to learn each of their languages will make a huge difference to their achievement. A child may find it unpleasant if they feel constantly tested and criticised when speaking. The main focus should be on what is being said and not how it is being said.

Find role models. One way of keeping their motivation up, may be to involve people who are not fluent in your child’s dominant language. This may encourage them to use a language they are less comfortable in. It will also show them that this language is spoken by people other than mum and/or dad. Children will also learn a lot from other children, especially older ones. They will want to speak like them and adopt their accent and expressions. Cousins who are not fluent in your child’s dominant language, for instance, may become excellent role models and a very good source of motivation.

Offering a bilingual environment to your child is a richness they will benefit from all their life. They may not only learn two languages, but also a new way of thinking about cultural diversity. Do not be afraid of making the most of their incredible language learning abilities!

About the author: Evelyne Mercure studied Speech & Language Pathologies, Neuroscience and Psychology.

She is currently an ESRC fellow at UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, investigating the impact of language experience on infants’ brain and cognitive development. She is also the proud mum of three bilingual children.

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Nurseries

Day Care Dilemmas

By Lynne Murray

D

ay care is the fastest growing form of child care in the UK and most children experience some kind of formal non-parental care by the age of 2 years. So what effect does day care have on the development of a child? How can parents maximize its benefits and alleviate any difficulties arising?

Firstly, any effects of day care on a child’s development are by far outweighed by his or her family influences. Secondly, research concludes overwhelmingly that the effects of day care are very dependent on its quality. Fortunately, in the UK this is generally good.

In settings where there is good training and pay, and a high staff-to-baby ratio, day care staff have higher morale and a strong sense of professionalism and motivation, and there is likely to be a low staff turnover. All these things are linked to staff providing better care and having the skills to provide both good one-to-one care and to manage a group of babies.

Where day care is of a high standard, then there is no evidence of harmful effects on children’s development. Indeed, it can positively benefit language and cognitive development, as well as enhance a child’s social maturity and relationships with other children.

In spite of the potential benefits, helping a baby adjust to day care is not always easy.

Firstly, it is quite common for babies to be upset when their parents leave them. Each

baby is an individual, and some just seem to find separations, as well as changes in routine and stimulation, harder than others.

Separation distress may be more marked after around 9 or 10 months old, when babies become more clearly aware of their attachment to their parents, and for this reason some parents prefer to make the transition to day care before then.

“In spite of the potential benefits, helping a baby adjust to day care is not always easy” Some day care settings deal with the stress of separation by encouraging parents to stay with their baby, possibly over the course of some weeks, until the baby settles. If parents feel that their baby is particularly sensitive, and may find the transition to day care difficult, it is advisable to choose a setting which offers this option, so that the baby can become accustomed to the environment and the staff. Where this is possible, it does

seem that babies are less stressed by the separation experience.

Good settings commonly help babies manage day care by building active links with home. Parents may be encouraged to bring in special toys, blankets or other ‘attachment objects’ and settings may follow the routines that parents use at home, for example, for settling to sleep.

Having in place a systems, like ‘day books,’ for passing on information about important events in the baby’s life also help staff respond to each individual baby’s experience and support them sensitively.

Some parents worry that their baby will become more attached to day care staff than to them. There is no evidence of this, and parents are typically their baby’s strongest attachment figures.

Nevertheless, close attachments can form between babies and their day carers, especially when the carer is responsive and warm towards the baby. This quality of relationship is beneficial to the baby’s development.

Lynne Murray is Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Reading, and author of The Psychology of Babies: How Relationships Support Development from Birth to Two (Constable & Robinson 2014), in which more information on day care, as well as other aspects of babies’ development, is provided.

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

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What’s On

Help is at hand

for children with poor handwriting New local classes apply a unique approach to developing handwriting speed and legibility

L

ittle is known by parents on how to help their child struggling with handwriting. Schools may be willing to provide the necessary support with additional worksheets to practice, but parents can remain baffled as to why the effort is not being translated into the necessary legible script promised by additional practise. The most worrying aspect - even in this digital age - is that speed and legibility of handwriting is a much needed skill for future exam success.

As a therapist specialising in learning difficulties I work with the most challenging of cases and over the years have transformed those with weak handwriting to beautiful cursive script of speed and legibility using Handwriting Lab. Handwriting Lab is a programme for parents who wish to help their child bridge this gap and as an alternative to worksheets provided by schools. We assess four key areas: posture, bilateral coordination, sensory perception and arm/hand and finger muscle strength. Without these skills in place no amount of worksheets will help the struggling writer.

“even in this digital age speed and legibility of handwriting is a much needed skill for future exam success”

The following checks are the guidelines we use when assessing:



Do they have sufficient strength in their arms for larger movements (gross motor) such as rope turning when skipping?

Gross motor movements need to be properly developed for good handwriting



How are their throwing/catching skills? Handwriting requires eye tracking where the eyes move with flow without moving the head.



Can they stand on one leg and balance for a count of more than 30? Balance/core strength is often overlooked. Children with weak core muscles can be seen slouching at their desks.



Right/ left body awareness - being able to touch their right hand to their left knee followed by left hand to right knee. Being able to coordinate in this way shows both parts of the brain are being used and information between the two sides is being communicated.



Is there enough strength in the fingers and wrist? You can tell if your child has insufficient strength in either of these areas because they will tire quickly when writing, drag their pencil or the writing pressure is too weak.

If you identify with any of the above then Handwriting Lab is for your child.

Where are HandWriting Lab Classes held?

How long before we see an improvement?

HandWriting Lab classes are held in: Pinner/Eastcote, Northolt and Northwood. Enrol your child for two terms for the best results. We use a combination of motor sensory therapy to improve posture, bilateral coordination, sensory perception, arm/ hand/finger muscle strength and traditional Occupational Therapy type methods to measure improvements. We work with children age 5 to 10 in small groups (max 10). The work they do in the session is followed up by 10 minutes of daily practise specific to their needs and an overall Perceptu-Motor programme towards the end. Within just two terms you should see the transition from spidery handwriting to clear legible script.

For more information call – Usha Patel HandWriting Lab founder on 07766 837 616.

SEN therapist at Raviv Practice London.

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Mummy on the Edge Angelina and Midi-Me go on a bear hunt. (Well, a walk.)

I

t was the kind of gorgeous, sunny winter morning that would be photographed, superimposed with a corny platitude in a cool typeface and posted on Instagram. As we ate our hipster brunch of seeded toast, topped with spinach, parmesan, fried egg and chilli oil, in our sundrenched living room, my body tingled with let’s-do-somethingness and a cloud of fomo loomed large over my brow daring me to waste this gift of a day.

“How about a long walk,” suggested Midi-Me. I stared at her suspiciously and continued to chew my spinach. Not usually so enthusiastic about long-distance activity, Midi-Me had just signed up to the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award at school. It’s basically about trekking and plotting a course and eating cold beans and camping overnight in the back of beyond. I am guilty of neither lessoning nor encouraging her in this area of… I don’t even know what it’s called… outwardboundedness?? I feel this remissness on my part, I feel it deeply. Therefore I felt pressured to yield to her desire; my interpretation involved a pub linner (that’s an early dinner) and going somewhere not Bushey (where we live). “Let’s go to the Cotswolds! They’re far-ish but near-ish aren’t they?”

No sooner than Midi-Me had agreed to this, I remembered we couldn’t leave the house till 1 as someone was coming over in the morning.

“I think it will take too long to get to the Cotswolds.

How about the Chiltern Hills? They’re a bit nearer, I think.” I consulted the google, looking at all manner of council and walking websites on the way that detailed walks with difficulty, the time they would take, and the area covered in each walk.

The walks were long. And distant.

“Erm, I think it’s going to take too long to get to the Chilterns and we need to be back by nightfall. I need to be a responsible mother.”

And this continued. I looked at Lea Valley, which turned out to be further away than the Chilterns and then at Colne Valley. The area of our theoretical walk appeared to be diminishing concentrically, towards our house at its centre.

“I think we’re going to end up doing 3 laps of the garden, mum,” sighed Midi-Me. We parked at Harrow View Point on Old Redding which is on top of a hill not far from our house and provides views across London.

I would drive Midi-Me here to look at other people’s fireworks when she was little. It’s a place where snogging couples hang out. I’ve just looked it up on the google and someone has put in their review “It’s like a movie scene right out of California.” Well no, not quite, but it’s no bad place to park your car before you commence an adventure.

On my little phone I had bookmarked the two really terrible maps I had found online of the 7km Bentley Wood Circular Walk, which would, in 2 and a half hours take us into the woods (da-da da-da, that we have daily over fourteen years driven straight past) from Grims Dyke down past Stanmore Hill and back past Bentley Wood High. We role played. Midi-Me was James Bond and I was James Bond’s sidekick who he finds out is his mother after she dies. I died pretty early on and then became myself as I couldn’t be bothered to role play. We chatted.

“LET’S GO TO THE COTSWOLDS! THEY’RE FAR-ISH BUT NEAR-ISH AREN’T THEY?” We marveled at nature. We sang Proclaimers songs. Midi Me got us to Stanmore Cricket Ground and then I panicked as the sun started to set and insisted we abandon the map and the woods in favour of getting back intact before darkness.

To this day I don’t understand the route we finally took. It involved roads and also dipping back into the woods in search of shortcuts and then doubling back on ourselves when we couldn’t find anything except impenetrable trees. I shouted a few times (and may have stamped my foot) to make MidiMe listen to me. (I know. I’m not proud of that.) By the time we returned to the car it actually felt like we had walked 5 hundred miles and 5 hundred more. But at least I redeemed myself on the outwardboundedness front.

Join me on the radio!! Thursdays from 10am to midday on www.thepulsehr.uk. Send your song requestst to: facebook.com/ angelinamelwani * twitter @appleina * mynotesfromtheedge.blogspot.com *Instagram @mynotesfromtheedge *

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

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What’s On

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

What’s On in Children’s Theatre

We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.

The Alban Arena

Unicorn Theatre

Lower Watford High Street, Watford WD17 01923 241 362 www.pumphouse.info

147 Tooley Street, SE1.

020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com

Wed 8 – Sat 11 Feb – St Albans Gang Show 2017 Be prepared to be blown away by the talent of young people in St. Albans as the Gang Show takes to the Arena Stage for another year. Go along for a fun, uplifting and spine tingling evening of song, dance and comedy sketches energetically performed by over 110 local Scouts, Guides and Young Leaders.

Mon 13 Feb – Cirque Du Hilarious This show is over two hours of continuous laughter! Clive and Danny’s madcap hilarious humour and lunacy manages to cross all ages from Children, Teenagers, Mums, Dads and Grandparents! Clive and Danny are actually father and son and along with the rest of the team have audiences in tears of laughter from start to finish.

Thu 16 Feb – Monstersaurus This brand new show from the creators of Aliens Love Underpants is monster-ously good! Follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a whole world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters, but he has a problem – now he has made them all, what is he going to do with them?! This energetic show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem will delight the whole family – with original music and plenty of audience participation! Ages 3+

Thu 16 – Sat 18 Feb – Oliver!

Rickmansworth Players Youth and Junior Theatre group are delighted to be presenting Lionel Bart’s Oliver.

After running away from the orphanage and then an undertakers, to which he’s been sold, Oliver ends up in London. He’s befriended by the Artful Dodger and taken to be part of Fagin’s gang, leading him into all sorts of trouble. Oliver! is ‘Pick a Pocket’ full of fantastic numbers - book early to avoid missing this fantastic family-friendly show!

Tue 24 Jan – Sun 5 Mar – The Iron Man The Iron Man has been eating every single piece of metal in sight: tractors, old cars, fences - right down to the last rusty nail, destroying farms everywhere.

The angry farmers try and trap him, but in the end it’s down to a young boy to try and tame the monster.

Using paper-cut silhouettes, puppetry and stop-motion animation Matthew Robins (Something Very Far Away), recreates the world of The Iron Man so vividly that you’ll feel you are there. His distinctive handmade and visual style of storytelling lets you watch this atmospheric tale being created live onstage. Ages 8+

artsdepot 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk Sun 22 Jan – Cake Cake takes to the kitchen to tell a story of valour and bravery as fresh as lemonscented washing-up liquid. A heroic knight sets out, through a forest of forks and a mountain of washing up, to do battle with a vicious set of snapping teeth which threatens a large cake and the community that lives inside it. Ages 4+ Sun 29 Jan – The Bear One night when she’s fast asleep, an enormous snowy white bear climbs into Tilly’s bedroom. It has a big black tongue and a yawn as big as your head. But Tilly’s not scared. The Bear is a heart-warming and humorous tale, adapted from Raymond Briggs’ much-loved book. With dazzling puppetry, music, storytelling, and laughs, this is an unforgettable experience for the whole family and a perfect introduction to theatre. Take a bear with you, and join Tilly and her great big white friend on a wild and magical adventure. Ages 3+ Sun 5 Feb – David Gibb: Letters Through Your Door David Gibb is an award winning song writer, story teller and tallest man in Derbyshire, on a mission to create great music for children and families. Letters Through Your Door features original songs as well drawing on traditional children’s song from across the world. The themes range from the everyday to the the surreal, but whether it’s finding a dragon in your bedroom, dreaming about swimming in the sea, or simply waiting for the postman to arrive, there’s something here for everyone! Ages 3-8 years Sat 11 – Sun 12 Feb – The First Hippo on the Moon From Number One bestselling Children’s author David Walliams; comes an explosively funny space adventure for children of 3 and up. Two big hippos. One ENORMOUS dream. Who can make it to the moon first? Adapted for the stage by Les Petits Theatre Company following their tour of Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs and immersive hit Adventures in Wonderland. Featuring puppetry, music and a giant space race to the moon! Ages 3+ Sun 19 Feb – Ulla’s Odyssey Fourteenyear-old Ulla is attempting to become the youngest person to sail the world single-handedly in her trusty sailing boat ‘The Homer’, with only her cat Binnacle to keep her company as she navigates the high seas. All is not plain sailing, as our heroine encounters mythical creatures and obstacles on her journey. Meanwhile the voices of the Sirens, Ulla’s friends and family, call out to her from across the waves, tempting her to give up her lonely voyage and come home. This new opera is an enchanting nautical fantasy inspired by Homer’s Odyssey, full of live music and puppetry and is suitable for children aged 7+, families, and any adult with a sense of fun and wonder.

Sun 26 Feb – Night at the Theatre When three characters become trapped in a theatre, little do they know that they will soon become the stars of their own show. Combining a mixture of dance theatre and imaginative storytelling with Casson & Friends’ trademark interactivity, Night at the Theatre will spark the imagination of children and their grown ups. Ages 4+

24

Pump House

Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk

Ulla’s Odyssey

The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes.

020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Sat 21 – Sun 22 Jan – The First Hippo on the Moon From Number One bestselling Children’s author David Walliams; comes an explosively funny space adventure for children of 3 and up. Two big hippos. One ENORMOUS dream. Who can make it to the moon first? Adapted for the stage by Les Petits Theatre Company following their tour of Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs and immersive hit Adventures in Wonderland. Featuring puppetry, music and a giant space race to the moon!

Sun 12 Feb – So You Think You Know About Dinosaurs Go and test your knowledge against Ben Garrod (the TV scientist in Attenborough and the Giant Dinosaur). With the help of TV film footage and photos of his own palaeontological dinosaur digs, he will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about dinosaurs - and more. This is an interactive show where children will be given the chance to ask questions and show off their dinosaur knowledge to the audience. Using film footage from the BBC’s Planet Dinosaur, Ben will talk about the deadliest predators that ever roamed the planet and the ones that, 65 million years ago, would have walked right where they are sitting now.

Tue 14 Feb – Comedy Club 4 Kids Cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and under 400 years old (no vampires). Featuring the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits!

Wed 15 Feb – Alice in Wonderland Imagination runs wild and logic is abandoned in this fantastical, larger-than-life musical brimming with nonsensical fun and excitement for the entire family.

Follow Alice and the White Rabbit as they set off on a colourful, topsy-turvy adventure like no other and meet a host of outlandish characters. Immersion Theatre proudly bring their trademark energy to their most spectacularly bonkers show to date, as children and adults alike are invited to join in the hilarity of seeing this classic story brought vividly to life before having the opportunity to meet the characters after the show.

Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com Until Sun 29 Jan - A Very Old Man With Enormous Wings The world’s been sad since Tuesday. The child has a fever and is hotter than a fish on a spit, the dog chases its tail, Mother dreams of a new broom and Father gazes out to sea. The whole village is on the brink. Then the sky gets frisky, the sea rears up and, in a bolt of lightning, a very old man with enormous wings crashes to earth in a flurry of feathers.

Nothing will ever be the same again! Ages 7+ Until Sun 29 Jan - Me… The world is a very big place, especially for a tiny baby penguin who is just finding her feet. The shimmering stars and glistening snow spin around our little hero, while the mountains tower high and the wind rushes to and fro. And although baby penguin may be small, her family know she’s the biggest thing of all. This early years favourite is a lovely and touching story about a parent and their love for their child by much loved children’s author Emma Dodd. Ages 2 to 6 years Wed 1 – Fri 3 and Sun 5 Feb – The Enormous Turnip Young Rosie dreams of carving a special turnip lantern for the Festival of Light.

Little does she know how absolutely ENORMOUS her turnip will grow! To plant and harvest the turnip, Rosie will need plenty of help from the audience, her animal friends and one small but very important gnome…

Ages 3-8 years

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Sat 14 Jan – Sun 19 Mar – The Red Balloon The show tells the story of a small boy’s friendship with a balloon and explores the poignancy of a child’s imagination. Performed using long string wood-carved marionettes, and accompanied by specially commissioned music, the show has captured the imaginations of both adults and children as they are transported into the world of the puppets. Expertly manipulated, the puppets become characters and are able to present the most intense emotions, using only mime, to audiences who become spellbound by their magic. All ages

The Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Fri 20 – Sat 21 Jan – WOW! Said the Owl Explore the wow-world of colours with this curious little owl who is determined to stay awake to see what day light brings. From the warm pink glow of dawn through to a day filled with the bright colours of green leaves, blue sky, grey clouds and, finally, a stunning rainbow. But despite the beauty of the daytime world, the little owl decides that the night-time stars are the most beautiful of all. WOW! Said the Owl, the acclaimed children’s book by award winning author Tim Hopgood, is brought to life through a blend of beautiful story-telling, puppetry and music.

Ages 2-5 years Wed 1 – Thu 2 Feb – Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom Holly is a young Fairy Princess, who is still learning how to fly and her magic doesn’t always go quite according to plan. Her best friend, Ben the Elf, doesn’t have wings and he doesn’t do magic, but he runs very fast and flies on the back of Gaston the Ladybird. They live in the Little Kingdom, a tiny land where flowers and grass rise high above them and every day is an adventure. Join Ben and Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter.

This beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence will delight all the family! Ages 2-6 Wed 15 Feb – Marty MacDonald’s Toy Machine A brand new show featuring the voices of CBeebies’ Justin Fletcher and Nicole Davis as Pongo the Pig and Molly-Moo the Cow. Everyone at Marty MacDonald’s Farm is delighted with the special delivery that’s arrived – the Toy Machine that makes all of the toys in the world! But the machine has stopped working and they need to fix it before the Toymaker comes to get it back! Join Marty and friends in a fun, musical, interactive adventure to repair the Toy Machine, save the day and give the world back its toys! Makaton™ signing is used with the singing so everyone can join in!

Fri 17 Feb – Granny’s Game Exploring while stuck at Gran’s, two children discover a most mysterious game – they’ll get more than they bargained for when they start to roll the dice! Join Julia and John as they play Granny’s Game, where a trip around the board becomes a globetrotting adventure!

Wrestling the snakes and climbing the ladders, our brave players will risk it all in a high-stakes quest they’ll never forget.

Sun 19 Feb – Alice in Wonderland Imagination runs wild and logic is abandoned in this fantastical, larger-than-life musical brimming with nonsensical fun and excitement for the entire family.

Follow Alice and the White Rabbit as they set off on a colourful, topsy-turvy adventure like no other and meet a host of outlandish characters. Immersion Theatre proudly bring their trademark energy to their most spectacularly bonkers show to date, as children and adults alike are invited to join in the hilarity of seeing this classic story brought vividly to life before having the opportunity to meet the characters after the show.

Sun 29 Jan – Sat 19 Aug – Baby Show From the makers of Scrunch and Seesaw, this brand new show is a great first trip to theatre for the really young. Time for a walk, better wrap up warm. Poppers, buttons, zips. Scarf, hat, mittens. Inside out, upside down, back to front. But it’s raining, it’s pouring and the wind is whistling through the trees…Then, out comes the sun. Quick let’s enjoy it whilst we can! Baby Show is a sensory performance with captivating images and intriguing sounds that will keep your little ones rapt.

Ages 6-18 months

Watersmeet High St, Rickmansworth WD3 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk Thu 26 – Sat 28 Jan – Bugsy Malone Presented by RARE Productions, the stage musical is set in Chicago in the 1920’s and concerns the battle for criminal supremacy of rival gangs. Into the mix steps aspiring boxing promoter Bugsy Malone, who agrees to help Fat Sam turn the tables on his rival. The ‘weapons’ in this story are, of course, splurge guns and in the finale, just about everyone gets ‘splurged’ before getting up and realizing they can all be friends after all.

With well known songs and exciting dance routines, this is a massively popular show for audiences of all ages to enjoy. The cast of talented local young people will ensure that this will be a production to remember.

Watford Colosseum Rickmansworth Road Watford WD17 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Sun 19 Feb – Mr Bloom’s Nursery Take your ‘tiddlers’ along and join Mr Bloom and the Veggies on their first ever live tour! Mr Bloom and his Veggies are getting the Nursery ready for a very special occasion - a member of the Royal family is paying them visit!

Can you lend a hand and help them get the Allotment ready in time? Featuring all of the much loved elements of the TV show, Mr Bloom (Ben Faulks) will be joined by all his gardening friends: Margaret, Joan, Colin, Raymond and Sebastian, the lovable Wee MacGregors, and not forgetting Mr Bloom’s trusty machine ‘The Compostarium’. Using song, play and interaction Mr Bloom’s Nursery is a fun and inspiring show with strong educational values which will entertain parents and tiddlers alike!

Winston Churchill Theatre Pinn Way Ruislip HA4 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Thu 19 – Sun 22 Jan – Aladdin Bringing together the companies of Argosy Players, ACT and HTDC, be transported to Beijing for a traditional family favourite. Aladdin is in love with Princess Jasmine but he is too poor to marry her. He and his brother Wishee Washee regularly steal apples from the royal gardens and work in the launderette run by their mother, Widow Twankey. Evil Abanazar want to become the most powerful sorcerer in the world. He needs the help of a Genie who is hidden in a lamp, in a cave, and the one to open the cave must be pure of heart – it can only be Aladdin from Beijing. From rags to riches and back again, a magic carpet ride, and constantly chased by the comedic Police, go join Aladdin on his magical journey.

Sat 18 Feb – Monstersaurus Follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a whole world of wacky inventions and incredible monsters, but he has a problem - now he has made them all, what is he going to do with them? This energetic show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem will delight the whole family – with original music and plenty of audience participation! Ages 3+

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 (Mar/Apr 2017) send your entry by xxxx 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 Until Sun 15 Jan – The Big Skate (WD17) Go and join the wintry fun at the Big Skate, back on the Parade in Watford for it’s third year. www.watford.gov Until Sun 3 Sep – Star Wars Identities (SE10) A new interactive Star Wars exhibition taking place at the O2. Explore the characters of Star Wars™ in this unique travelling exhibition, get to know them on a whole new level and learn more about yourself in the process. Explore rare treasures from the Lucasfilm archives, including 200 original costumes, props, models, and pieces of artwork. Unleash your creativity as you build your personal and unique Star Wars Hero. www.starwarsidentities.com Sun 1 Jan – Sat 4 Feb - Strictly Come Hospice (WD17) This is your opportunity to have your own Strictly experience by taking part in Peace Hospices’ very own ballroom dancing competition ‘Strictly Come Hospice’! You will receive 7 weeks of dancing lessons with professional dancers from Paul Alex Dance Studios before you get to perform your routine in front of a panel of expert judges and an audience of 500 at the Strictly Come Hospice Grand Finale with a chance to crowned champions. Make sure you book your place and remember, keep dancing!!

01923 335373 www.peacehospicecare.org.uk/strictly Sat 7 – Sat 14 Jan - Sleeping Beauty (HA6) Arrow Players present “Sleeping Beauty” at the Church of St. Edmund the King in Northwood Hills - a thoroughly traditional family pantomime, with lots of singing and dancing, fun and laughter.

Sleeping Beauty tells the story of how the Wicked Fairy takes revenge on the Princess for not being invited to her Christening, by sending her to sleep on the eve of her 18th birthday for 100 years. It’s up to the Prince to overcome all the traps she has set, and rescue the Princess. There’s fun for all the family, whatever their ages.

020 8428 1349 boxoffice@arrowplayers.org.uk www.arrowplayers. org.uk

Kew Gardens Mon 9 – Sun 22 Jan - Bump Rollerdisco (SE1) BUMP Rollerdisco welcomes the whole family to the Southbank Centre for festive sparkle and vibes. At weekends look out for DJs and special rollerskating performances too. Rollerskates are available in a range of styles to fit feet from a child’s size 9 to an adult size 14. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, though if they can skate well on their own, you can sit back and enjoy watching them go around by themselves. 11am - 11pm.

0871 663 2501 www.southbankcentre.co.uk Tue 10 Jan – Tue 7 Mar - Living With a Teenager (HA1) This course is for every parent with a teenager or adolescent aged 12 years+. Topics include:Understanding and acknowledging the needs of pre teens and

teenagers; Negotiating and setting limits; Finding different ways to communicate effectively and Peer pressure. Sessions are weekly at Hope Harrow from 7-9pm.

0208 863 7319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk Sat 14 Jan - Learning Through Play with the LEGO team (SE1) Go along to the Southbank Centre and hear from play experts about the value of playtime, and then take on a LEGO® challenge. This event is part of Nordic Matters, a year-long festival exploring arts and culture from Aland Islands, Denmark, Faroe Islands, Finland, Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.

Recommended for ages 6+ 11.30am - 12.45pm 020 7960 4200 www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

SCHOOLS IN:

Harrow Hendon Watford ✴ ✴ ✴

3–18 years

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE!

020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

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North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

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

What’s On

Chinese New Year © Museum of London Sat 14 Jan - A Valentine’s Evening with the Stars (SE10) Be starry-eyed with your loved one in a special planetarium show of love-themed constellations. Head along to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich for a an evening of Valentine’s fun, with a romantically themed planetarium show, followed by a chance to look at the Moon through the Great Equatorial Telescope, and some time on the Meridian Line with an amazing view and a glass of bubbly. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 14 – Sun 15 Jan - St Ann’s Christmas Pop Up Cinema (HA1) Head along to St Ann’s Shopping Centre for free cinema showings. Sat 14th at 11am will be Love Actually, and 2.30pm will be Arthur Christmas. On Sun 15th you can see Frozen at 11am (this is an Autism friendly screening) and the Polar Express at 2.30pm. www.stannsshopping.co.uk Sun 15 Jan - Wow! Said The Owl & Crafternoon: Feathered Friends (NW3) Go along to JW3 and explore the wow-world of colours with a curious little owl who’s determined to stay awake to see what daylight brings. The acclaimed children’s book by awardwinning author Tim Hopgood is brought to life through a blend of beautiful storytelling, puppetry and music by Little Angel Theatre. Then you can join in the Crafternoon event and create your very own feathered friend with origami! www.jw3.org.uk Thu 19 Jan – Sun 26 Feb – The Magical Lantern Festival (W4) The historic Chiswick House Gardens

will be transformed into a fairytale world of light sculptures, Chinese arts, Virtual Reality, games and food with a funfair and 600 square metre ice rink and ice bar. www.magicallantern.uk Fri 20 – Sun 22 Jan – The London Model Engineering Exhibition (N22) Go along to Alexandra Palace 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 as featured on “The One Show”. Visitors can travel between the show’s different zones, trying the activities and watching fascinating and technical demonstrations. www.londonmodelengineering.co.uk Sat 21 Jan - The Stars Above: The Solar System (HP23) Discover the solar system with this special talk & observation event at the National History Museum in Tring.

Suitable for 7+yrs, advance booking required. 6.30 to 8pm. www.nhm.ac.uk Sat 21 Jan - Cutty Sark Burns Night Celebration (SE10) One for the grown up’s! Celebrate Burns Night on board Cutty Sark, named for one of Burns’ most-loved poems, Tam O’Shanter. Head along for a night of celebrations and dancing: hear from ‘Nannie’, the ship’s figurehead; explore the ship; drink whisky and maybe try some haggis. And be sure to join the band for a rip-roaring ceilidh, and to wear your kilt and dancing shoes! For ages 18+. www.rmg.co.uk

Sat 28 Jan - Chinese New Year: The Year of the Rooster (E14) Celebrate the Year of the Rooster at this special family festival at the Museum of London Docklands. Fill a tray of togetherness, try your hand at paper-cutting, fashion a zodiac-inspired mobile, listen to traditional Chinese stories, take part in a dragon dance and much more. What better way to start the New Year? www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands Sat 28 – Mon 30 Jan - Big Garden Birdwatch (various) The next RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch will take place from 28-30 January. Take a note of the birds you see in your garden, or even the local park, and feedback your results to the RSPB. www.rspb.org.uk Sat 28 Jan – Fri 3 Feb - Snowdrop Days 2017 (SW3) See Snowdrops in all their glory before the rest of the country, thanks to the unique warm micro-climate at Chelsea Physic Garden. Head Gardener Nick Bailey, and his team will be creating innovative displays by elevating snowdrops so that you can admire their intricate details up close. There will also be an unexpected injection of colour to these typically white icons of spring.

Throughout the event there will be snowdrop themed Walks, Talks and Workshops. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk continued on page 28 v

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

27

What’s On Sat 26 – Sun 27 Feb - Hampton Court Palace Adult Ghost Tours (KT8) Hampton Court Palace are running some spooky Ghost Tours for adults! Go along for a 1.5 – 2 hours evening walking tour hearing stories of ghostly apparitions and paranormal activity at Hampton Court Palace. Minimum age 15.

Booking essential.

0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace

Half Term

Sat 11 – Sun 19 Feb - February Frolics Lambing Event (AL4) Live lambing, newborn lamb bottle feeding demonstrations and a full day’s programme of fleecy fun for a baarilliant day out at Willows Activity Farm. www.willowsactivityfarm.com Sat 11 – Sun 19 Feb - February Half Term at The Museum of London Docklands (E14) There are a whole host of events taking place over the week. Build a mini blossoming station on Sat 11th, create a whole range of different train carriages from throughout history on Sat 12th, make a model cable car on Mon 13th, create your own London bus on Wed 15th, create a pop-up ship on Thu 16th, and find your way through London by looking at maps on Sun 19th. Check the website for further details and events. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands

V&A Museum of Childhood v continued from page 27 Sun 29 Jan – Bookniks (NW3) Jewish Book Week and JW3 bring you Bookniks, their very own children’s book festival.

Go along for a fun-filled afternoon of stories, craft, puppetry and some of the most exciting children’s writers around, including David Solomons, Claire Freedman, Dr Emily Grossman and Andy Stanton.

For the Crafternoon session, bring your favourite book characters to life with lolly stick puppets! www.jw3.org.uk

February Sat 4 Feb – Kids Run Free (NW10) Kids Run Free is a charity that organises fun, running based activities for children aged 0-16 years in their local parks and schools. It takes place on the first Saturday of every month in Gladstone Park at 9am. Don’t forget to register your child/ren at the website - print off a barcode for each child and take it along to every event. www.kidsrunfree.co.uk Sat 4 Feb – Sun 5 Mar - Orchids 2017 (TW9) The beloved Orchids Festival returns to Kew Gardens. Inspired by the vibrant colours, culture and magnificent plant life of India, this year’s festival will feature giant floral displays created using exotic orchids, decorative rickshaws, Indian soundscapes, films and much more. It will be Kew’s 22nd annual Orchids Festival and the first themed around India. www.kew.org Tue 7 Feb - Homework Matters (NW3) This seminar at JW3 is designed to give parents guidance on how to get children to do their homework willingly and independently without having to nag, shout or bribe! Teaching your child good study habits is a foundation for successful work habits as an adult. Rachel Vecht is an experienced primary school teacher, mother to four children and founder of Educating Matters. www.jw3.org.uk Sat 11 Feb - Chinese New Year (E2) Head along to the V&A Museum of Childhood to celebrate Chinese New Year with traditional and modern instrumental and dance performances.

Take part in Chinese Opera mask making, costume and calligraphy workshops. A collaborative event with Mothers’ Bridge of Love. Free drop-in for all ages. www.vam.ac.uk/moc

Sat 11 Feb - London Children’s Book Swap (E2) Discover new stories and renew your personal library when the London Children’s Book Swap returns to the V&A Museum of Childhood. Take along your old books to trade for different books.

Drop-in for all ages between 11am – 4pm. www.vam.ac.uk/moc Sat 18 Feb - Brent Culture Open Day (HA9) Find out all of the latest news from the Brent Culture teams and Brent’s Community Libraries, plus a variety of fun activities for all the family! 12-4pm at Wembley Library. www.brent.gov.uk Sat 18 Feb - London Philharmonic Orchestra FUNharmonics: Conducting Science (SE1) Join science presenter and comedian Helen Arney, special guest scientists, and the LPO at the Royal Festival Hall for interactive experiments, demonstrations live on stage, and plenty of brilliant music. Conducting Science will give parents and children alike a chance to look down the microscope at the secrets behind the Orchestra’s sounds. And don’t forget head along before the concert for hands-on science fun and ‘have-a-go’ instrument sessions. This concert is aimed at children aged 6 and over but family members of all ages are welcome. www.lpo.org.uk Sun 19 Feb - Udderly Amazing Cows! (SW19) The cows play a crucial role in managing the wetlands at the WWT London. Spend time behind the scenes with the udderly amazing cows, learn more about their importance and what the wardens have to do to look after the furry friends. 10am – 11am & 1.30pm – 2.30pm. Spaces are limited so please book your place at admissions on the day (first-come first-served basis). www.wwt.org.uk Sun 26 Feb - The Party: A Circus Show (NW3) A man gets ready to host his long anticipated birthday party, which goes spectacularly wrong with the arrival of some uninvited guests.

A circus show for all the family at JW3, The Party is a totally madcap celebration spiralling out of control through clowning, juggling, trick cycling and tumbling. This is followed by the Crafternoon activity for children ages 2+ and their parents, which is making traditional clowns using paper plates! For children aged 8-11 years there is a Circus Skills Workshop, which is a drop off event where they can learn the secret tricks of the trade with Nearly There Yet. www.jw3.org.uk

Sat 11 Feb - Rave-A-Roo (SE1) A brand new clubbing mash-up of festival fun for the whole family, and the ultimate party for kids. Rave-A-Roo features live DJs, madcap hosts, bubble walkabout, hilarious interactive performances and fab giveaways.

It’s an epic afternoon in a safe and spotless environment mixed with a kids festival. People of all ages are welcome, from toddlers to grandparents, to dance, let loose, or sit back, watch and chill.

1-3.45pm at the Royal Festival Hall.

020 7960 4200 www.southbankcentre.co.uk Sat 11 Feb - Out at Sea: Family Festival! (SE10) A day-long free family festival to celebrate LGBT History Month at the National Maritime Museum! Join in a sing-along with the London Gay Men’s Chorus, have a chat with the resident female pirate, hear stories of gods, goddesses, mermaids and monsters, learn about the history of boys’ and girls’ toys with ‘Let Toys Be Toys’, and create your own incredible rainbow ship-badge! www.rmg.co.uk

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Museum of London

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Sat 11 – Sun 19 Feb - London Puddle Jumping Championships (SW13) The London 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, so take your wellies and wet weather gear and go and have a splashing time! Use your imagination to create the biggest, most exciting splash. Throw some shapes in the air for extra style! www.wwt.org.uk Sat 11 – Sun 19 Feb - Rebuilding London (EC2Y) Take part in a week of daily free family events at the Museum of London, exploring how London was rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1666. Create your own map of London or make a phoenix masterpiece out of burnt materials. Join interactive storytelling or help poet Sara Hirsch create a fire-themed poem. Daily event info available online. Suitable for all ages. 12-4pm. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Mon 13 Feb - Filmsmeet presents: Disney’s Moana (WD3) A young woman uses her navigational talents to set sail for a fabled island. Joining her on the adventure is her hero, the legendary demi-god Maui. The film will show at 11am, 2pm & 5pm at Watersmeet Theatre. www.watersmeet.co.uk Mon 13 – Tue 14 Feb - A Mermaid’s Tale (SE10) Mermaids and men exist worldwide in myths and legends: make up transformational merpeople and stories! Part of the Rainbow Week February Half-Term at the National Maritime Museum: this year they will be exploring change and transformation in their collection, with two free drop-in family workshops at 11.30am–1:30pm and 1.30–4pm. www.rmg.co.uk Mon 13 – Wed 15 Feb - Peter Pan Children’s Workshop with Perform (various) Let your children fly to Neverland for an unforgettable three-day adventure this February. With a sprinkle of fairy dust, and Peter Pan, the Lost Boys and Tinkerbell in tow, the children will be transported to the land where no one grows up for the best fun of the holidays. Perform’s team of skilled actors, musicians and dancers will work their magic guiding each child every step of the way to inspire and encourage them to project their voices, learn energetic dance routines, sing catchy songs, and develop the Perform 4 Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Communication and Coordination. On the last day, the children will put on a show-stopping performance to delight family and friends complete with imaginative costumes and original songs. www.perform.org.uk/peterpan

What’s On

Willows Farm

Mon 13 & Thu 16 Feb – Bedazzled (SE10) During the First World War, artists were commissioned to decorate Royal Navy ships with intricate and colourful ‘dazzle’ patterns to make them hard to spot at sea. Blur the lines with dazzle masks using bright colours and bold designs to transform yourself at the National Maritime Museum. 11.30am–1.30pm and 1.30–4pm. www.rmg.co.uk Mon 13 – Fri 17 Feb - Airfix Make and Take (NW9) Half term Airfix Make and Take event at the RAF Museum, which gives visitors the opportunity to make and paint their own Airfix model. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Mon 13 – Fri 17 Feb - February Half Term Scheme at JW3 (NW3) This half term you can express your wild side through science, sound and sport! Go along for one day or the whole week, as no day is the same. Children will enjoy a mixture of professionally delivered, age appropriate workshops and hands-on activities with the in house youth leadership team. For ages 5-11. www.jw3.org.uk

carers at the Museum of London. Free but ticketed on arrival, arrive early to avoid disappointment 10.3011.15am, 11.30am-12.15pm & 1-1.45pm. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Wed 15 – Thu 16 Feb - Family Fun: Sticktacular (HP23) Creative crafts, games and trails for children of all ages at College Nature Reserve in Tring. www.bbowt.org.uk Fri 17 Feb - Musical Storytelling (WC1N) Learn about musical games in this interactive story-telling workshop for families at the Foundling Museum. Immerse yourself in the music and sounds of games played by children on the streets of London throughout its history. Suitable for ages 5-10. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk

Mon 13 – Fri 17 Feb - Play the Museum Game (E2) Experience the V&A Museum of Childhood like a giant board game to celebrate Game Plan: Board Games Rediscovered and all things playful. A series of workshops and activities inviting you to view the Museum’s collection and building playfully and differently. Drop-in for all ages from 11am-4pm.

Mon 13 – Fri 17 Feb – SuperCamps (HA6) A multi-activity camp taking place at Northwood College for Girls during the February half term. www.supercamps.co.uk Mon 13 – Fri 17 Feb – Toad to the Rescue (EC2R) The fantastic stories from ‘Wind in the Willows’ are brought to life in this half term event at the Bank of England Museum. Enjoy fun and interactive sessions with a costumed storyteller. No booking required. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Mon 13 – Fri 17 Feb - Half Term Fun Week at Watford Colosseum (WD17) Work with professional artists to explore the production behind the magic of theatre. Arts and active fun for ages 7-12 years. Booking essential.

01923 571102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Tue 14 Feb - Victorian Street Games (WC1N) Go on an adventure inspired by Victorian street games, in this free family workshop at the Foundling Museum. Join artist Isobel Manning to learn about the outdoor games that children played in the nineteenth century and make your own game to take home. Ages 5+. Sessions run 10:30-11:30am, 1-2pm and 2.30-3.20pm. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Tue 14 – Wed 15 Feb - Upswing presents: Between the Stacks (NW10) Try a new art form as you experience the library environment in a different way. Between the Stacks uses contemporary circus performance and play activities which explore stories based on night time, fantasy and journeys. At The Library at Willesden Green 11am-12pm and 2-3pm on Tuesday and Wednesday. www.brent.gov.uk Tue 14 – Wed 15 Jan – Half Term Activities at Natural History Museum Tring (HP23) Investigate Birds in 30 minute workshops on Tue 14th and Wed 15th and make Fluffball Dodos on Thu 16th. On Fri 17th there will be a Scavenger Hunt at Tring Park at 10.30am & 2pm. This is a 2 hour activity which includes a 20 minute steep walk. Advance booking required. www.nhm.ac.uk Tue 14 – Thu 16 Feb - Half Term Activities (AL9) Activities taking place at 10am, 11.15am, 1.15pm and 2.30pm at Mill Green Museum. On Tue 14 Feb make a moving Dragon Puppet; On Wed 15 Feb create a 3D Hand Print Dragon Picture, and on Thu 16 Feb make a clay model of your favourite Dragon. Sessions last for one hour, no booking required. Suitable for age 4+.

01707 357850 museum@welhat.gov.uk www.welhat.gov.uk/familyfun Wed 15 Feb - Tickets please! (EC2Y) Discover modes of transport past and present while learning songs about travel in the city during this musical session for under 5s and their parents and

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Local Clubs and Classes Directory 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.

Every Wednesday 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 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 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

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 Gambado Watford (WD25) Giant play-frame, dodgems, climbing wall, and parties.  01923 892140  www.gambado.com 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

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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 years old 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 Little Notes (HA1&HA6) Music Teachers’ Awards for Excellence Finalist 2016.

Pre-school music classes run exclusively by professional musicians. Sarah is a classically-trained singer and leads classes with voice, piano, flute and guitar. She creates an interactive musical space where children and adults can be guided as they explore sounds, shapes, rhythms and rhymes together. Love music, right from the start! Classes for children from 0 to 5 years in Harrow & Northwood. Please see website for more details.  020 8426 4114  sarahlittlenotes@gmail.com www.littlenotes.co.uk 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!  Contact hilda@mini-maniacs.com or visit 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, New Denham, Eastcote, Northwood and Harrow.  020 8427 6595  www.monkeymusic.com

SPORTS AND EXERCISE 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 08452 26 26 94 to book a trial session. Enjoy-aBall parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike!  08452 26 26 94  www.enjoy-a-ball.com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com Everyone Active (various) Swimming lessons, sports clubs and activities for all ages. See our ad on page 19 for more details.  www.everyoneactive.com Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Every Saturday in Term Time at Field End Road for all children aged 5 – 11 years.

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 (for both children and parents) 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 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 Modern Combat Martial Arts - MCMA* (HA1/HA5/UB5) Children’s MixedMartial Arts & Self Defence from 5yrs - 14yrs. Ladies Only Boxing & Kick Boxing from 15yrs. Mixed Adult KRAV MAGA Classes from 16yrs.  www. fightingcombatfitness.co.uk; www.moderncombatmartialarts.com;  07818 416 671 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-

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Directory editor: Anna Blackshaw

filled programmes aimed at improving general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination. Currently classes in Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore.  For more information contact remi@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 Positiv-Life Fitness (various) Specialise in Small group Personal training Pregnancy Pilates, Mum & Baby Yoga & Postnatal Pilates & Baby Massage, for those in & near Eastcote Ruislip, Pinner, Northwood & Uxbridge. info@ positivlifefitness.com  07974 062 973  www.positivlifefitness.com www.facebook.com/positivlifefitness > Twitter @PositivLifeFit YogaBugs (various) A magical, fun and interactive story-style adventures for children where they learn yoga techniques. Yoga improves flexibility, posture and concentration and also helps in relaxation. Fun and engaging classes for children from walking to 12 years of age.  Contact details: 08458997168. deepti@yogabugs.com. www.yogabugs.com 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 months) YogaBellies Little Angels pre-school yoga (18 months to 4 years): Sat mornings, Bushey YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (children 4-12 years): Sat & Sun mornings, Bushey NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 years): Weekday evening, Bushey  07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk; www.yogabellies.co.uk/ members/anjli

Swimmimg Aqua Style (WD23/HA6) teaches children, babies and adults to swim without aids in small groups, or One to One. Good facilities and plenty of parking. They run Intensive ‘Fast Track’ Courses during School Holidays and weekly ‘Term Time’ courses.  www.aquaswim.org  07925954144.

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.

Tel 01923 245 772 www.aqua-vie.com or email office@aqua-vie.com Aweswim (various) Aweswim offers courses for people of all ages and abilities, ranging from parent and baby groups through to adults.  www.aweswim.co.uk  01923 537070 Push & Glide Swimming School (WD18, WD23, HA6) Push & Glide Swimming School provide extremely high standards of swimming instruction, they pride themselves on their friendly, dynamic teaching environment. They provide fully qualified instructors who are committed to maintaining and improving an excellent quality of teaching along with low ratio swimming lessons in a safe environment for children aged 3.5 years plus. All abilities are catered for, from gaining water confidence through to competition training, following the ASA progressive scheme awards.  07749554405  www.pushandglide.co.uk 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) run weekend dance, drama and singing classes for children aged 3 - 18 years. Children are divided into age appropriate groups and work towards shows and presentations. Focus on having fun and building confidence through engaging performing arts activities. Two week trial available.  020 8447 4530  www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk Nichola Rees Youth Academy – NYRA (WD) An acting and performing arts academy based in Watford, for young people aged 4-18 years.Weekly workshops on Thursdays and Saturdays, and an annual performance.  07702 965 851  nichola@nrya.co.uk www.nrya.co.uk Perform Drama (Various) Together with a team of experienced theatre professionals, the children will combine live original music, inspirational dance and quick witted improvisation and colourful costumes into a performance at the end of the term. Perform sessions are specially

Local Clubs and Classes Directory designed to encourage creativity, confidence and communication skills as well as being a kaleidoscope of fun!  0845 400 1275  www.perform.org.uk 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 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) Fun, Motivating and Popular dance classes that teach a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip-Hop and Kathak.

Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults - call us now to arrange your trial lesson. All dance levels welcome and training leads to stage performance opportunities.  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 RISE Studios (WD) Dance and Performing Arts Schools in Watford and Rickmansworth. Classes in ballet, modern, tap, street dance, hip-hop, drama, singing, LAMDA and Performing Arts.  01923 218626  www. rise-studios.com 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 Blank Canvas Art Club (HA4) Let them explore their creative side!

Imaginative Art classes for children delivering art techniques in a fun environment. (This isn’t just messy play and each term is different). Infant classes Mon 3.30, Tues 5pm, Juniors Wed 4.30. Private classes available and adult classes coming soon.  07773819603  blankcanvasartclub@gmail. com, www.facebook.com/Blankcanvasartclub Luchi and Ota (HA8) Sewing classes and course for kids and adults. Also hold one-off drop-in sessions and sewing and craft parties.  020 8958 7714  hello@luchiandota.com www.luchiandota.com 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 Mini Picassos (NW10) After school art courses for children 4-13yrs. Toddler Picassos - weekdays at 10am & Tues 2.45-3.45pm: Painting, water play, collage, play dough and songs. Ages 15 mnths–3 yrs. Adults evening Life drawing classes. Mini Picassos Arty Birthday Party for children aged 2-10 years and Summer Holiday workshops too!  07903 638 817  www. minipicassos.co.uk info@minipicassos.co.uk The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) offers pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals

in a friendly and homely environment. Offer group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB /EDUCATION SUPPORT 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  coding@discog.co.uk www.discog.co.uk 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 Excel Academy (HA3) Experienced tuition in preparation for SATs, 11+, 13+, GCSEs, AS & A2 levels. Small group sizes, all aspects of the National Curriculum covered.  www.excelacademy.org.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.

First Class Learning (Various) Structured yet flexible programme, designed for children studying the UK National Curriculum. Tailored to a child’s learning needs & style. Find out more about this structured approach to learning, by contacting one of your local Centre managers.  www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Fleet Tutors (Various) Professional one to one tutoring. Fleet Tutors has been matching the right tutor to the education needs of students across the UK since 1977. Our network of tutors are subject specialists who tailor the teaching and learning experience to relieve any subject specific anxieties and help build your child’s confidence so they achieve a successful outcome.

For a helpful discussion about your requirements, speak to our knowledgeable tuition consultants today  0333 920 2545.  www.fleet-tutors.co.uk 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 High Fliers (HA4 & WD7) 11+ tuition for Independent and Grammar school entrance. Run by highly experienced and qualified prep school teachers offering a unique and tailored tutoring service.  07949 297070/07534 020868  info@high-fliers.org.uk www.high-fliers.org.uk 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 Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation.  07985 588 085  www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk Kumon (various) Unique maths and English study programmes which support children by building and developing a solid foundation in their literacy and/or numeracy skills.  www.kumon.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 NonVerbal 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 Little Big Leaders Ltd (HA7) Supplementary School for students aged three and a half to 11 years undertaking Reading, Maths and English.  020 8213 3100 07949 925374 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 phone number to info@thelondontutors.co.uk Mastermind Tuition (HA) Specialise in 11+, Maths, English, Verbal & Non-verbal reasoning (including CEM-style) and Grammar & Independent school preparation. Classes in Harrow & Northwood (free parking on site) Visit the website or call  07478 878672 to book a FREE TRIAL  www. mastermindtuition.com mastermindtuition@aol.co.uk Magikats (HA1) Innovative programmes, written to support the National Curriculum from ages 3 – 16, Sat at Gayton Library, Harrow. Individual programmes and support for individual children, promotes confidence, skills and a love of learning.  02084275663  www.magikats.com Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework support.  0333 12 33 445  www.mathscool.com The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An independent service covering a range of children’s communication difficulties.  01923 824 074  www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) After school 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 Pinner Tuition Centre (Pinner) After school and Sat tuition for Reception to Year 11 by fully qualified teachers. Tuition in Maths, Reading, Spelling, Writing, SATS, 11+ and GCSE. FREE ASSESSMENT. Ofsted Registered.  www.pinnertuitioncentre.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) Simple Studies (NW4) Offer expert English and Maths tuition for 4-16 year olds at their cosy centre in Hendon. They specialise in 11+ entrance exams.

Quote ‘Familiesmagazine’ and get 10% off your first lesson!  07793 498195  www.simplestudies.co.uk 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 Stanmore Tutor Stanmore Tutor prepares students thoroughly for the top selective schools ensuring that they reach their maximum potential for that all important place.  020 3538 2437 Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA5) Learn to touch type! Specifically designed 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 is designed by Bibbysalt and printed by Warners. Copyright Families North West Magazine 2016. Families North West is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families North West London are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

SPEECH & LANGUAGE THERAPIST An independent service covering a range of Children’s communication difficulties.

Contact THE NORTHWOOD PRACTICE MRCSLT, HPC

Call 01923 824074

North West London JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

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