Families North London January February 23 Digital

Top children's books Tackling tantrums

WIN! Pasta Remoli meal for 4 Create a wildlife haven Valentine crafts Family night in WIN! London's Cherry Blossom book Dangerous thing you should let your child do Managing children's anxiety Wellbeing directory Batch cooking Outdoor activities Purple Pages Classifieds

The brightest Spring celebration in North London is back on March 12 –the Holi Colour Dance Party in Swiss Cottage. With drummers, dancers, colour play, revellers dancing to Western and Bollywood music, and food no wonder one visitor said: "Can't get a better experience of Indian festivals outside of India." See p18 for more. www.magicofindia. org/holicolourparty

Happy New Year from all of us here at Families! We wish you the very best for the months ahead.

We might all feel like hibernating but getting outside is good for us so we’ve got some great ideas for seasonal family activities. And, once you’re back indoors, we have some fab ideas for making family nights in special. Also, in this issue, we have Britannica Magazine subscriptions and other goodies to giveaway! Apply inside. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Get in touch

Competition winners from our September/October issue

Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list HERE

Getting the best from online tutoring

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

SATS: getting in the know

By Jessica Joan

With Covid and the move to online platforms, tutoring has become more accessible, with more options and opportunities available. As a result, more than 15 per cent of UK children are now receiving private tuition. But how can you get the best results?

READ MORE

Shared reading and language development

By Dr Jamie Lingwood

In May, Year 2 (KS1) and Year 6 (KS2) pupils will take their SATS exams. From their very first day at school, children are being trained to be able to perform in preparation for these assessments. So what support can you give at home?

READ MORE

Early language development is incredibly important and sitting down to read with your child gives them a big advantage in this area. But what are the best ways of helping your child to enjoy shared reading and why is it so beneficial?

READ MORE

Top children’s book picks for 2023

Plan some great reading for your child with our children’s book suggestions, all just published or due to be published this year.

DJ Baby Funky novelty board book featuring spinning record turntables! Ages 1+.

Ten Little Bugs Part traditional counting rhyme, part fun-filled story – perfect for sharing. Ages 3-5.

Grandad’s Pride

Beautiful follow-up to Grandad’s Camper, filled with heart and purpose. Ages 3-6.

The Library Fish Learns to Read

Charming picture book about the unusually literary fish. Ages 4-8.

Weird but true! 2023

National Geographic annual loaded with brain bending facts and photos. Ages 7-10.

A Dragon Realm Adventure

Special World Book Day story (£1) in the actionpacked series. Ages 8+.

Dave Pigeon Bookshop Mayhem

Special World Book Day story (£1) - a funny, joyful romp. Ages 6+.

Valentine Crow & Mr Death

Distinctive, warm and funny. From highlyacclaimed Jenni Spangler. Ages 9+.

Yetis are the Worst!

Gilbert the Goblin’s new adventure – finding the legendary yeti. Ages 4-8.

Putting pupil wellbeing

first

As we all become more aware of the connection between physical, social and mental health, so there is a growing body of research into mental health problems in children in the UK. An independent north London school group is using this evidence to strike a healthy balance between academic development and personal wellbeing.

Known for its 'high support, low pressure' ethos, successful north London school group, North Bridge House takes a life-course approach to mental health, promoting wellbeing throughout children’s education. “We are aware that academic success is inextricably intertwined with physical and mental wellbeing. We aim to use every educational opportunity to promote our students’ wellbeing by ensuring it is at the heart of everything we do,” said Brendan Pavey, Executive Headteacher of North Bridge House.

Ten per cent of children aged 5-16 years have a clinically diagnosable mental problem, yet research shows 70 per cent of children and adolescents who experience

mental health problems have not had appropriate interventions at a sufficiently early age.

The life-course approach starts READ MORE

Top: NBH's wellbeing dog makes a pal Above: Mud - nothing quite like it

For many parents, the cost of living crisis has forced them to make tough spending choices and education expenses are no exception. If your child needs extra support in Reading, maths, English or entrance exam prep, you might feel guilt that you’re balancing their learning needs against rising expenses.

Ant Learning (antlearning.co.uk) a private tuition provider in Southgate and online, recognises the challenging financial climate for parents and has identified ways parents can save money on private tuition. These include READ MORE

Tackling toddler tantrums

By Sarah Ockwell-Smith

The ‘terrible twos’ aren’t called that for nothing! This stage of a child’s life is all about big feelings. Scientifically, it relates to the undeveloped prefrontal brain cortex meaning a child is unable to regulate their own emotions.

What is a tantrum?

Tantrums describe the state of an individual who is out of control, full of big emotions and stress hormones and unable to calm themselves down. Tantrums can happen right into adulthood but adults learn to self-soothe.

Toddlers don’t possess these skills yet. They are not being naughty or manipulative, they are simply being toddlers. Tantrums are a normal and exceedingly common feature of child development. Research has found that nearly nine in ten children between 18 months and 2 years regularly have tantrums, with most having at least one a day, lasting on average between thirty and sixty seconds (although it is not uncommon for them to occur far more frequently and last for much longer).

‘No’ to the naughty step

Contrary to popular belief, ignoring, shaming or punishing tantrums can make a toddler’s behaviour much worse. These approaches ignore a child’s difficult underlying feelings and don’t resolve the cause

or help the toddler regulate their behaviour. Experts have discovered just how much infant brains are affected by the level of parental care they receive. With nurturing attention, the part of their brains responsible for regulating emotion become better connected as they grow. READ MORE

Early Years play

Toy company Fisher Price has teamed up with charity Family Action, to launch the Family Action Play Programme for children age 0 to 5. It shares early years expertise, tips and activities to build play into every day. www.bit.ly/familyactionplayprogramme

Free Maths Circles

Children age 10 to 16 can learn from some of the best maths educators in the world in free weekly interactive maths sessions online called Maths Circles, which aim to increase diversity in mathematicians. www.parallel.org.uk

Go winter Gadgeteers

The Gadgeteers Mini Winter Reading Challenge is on now. Your child can find their next great read on the Gadgeteers book sorter, read three books and record reviews by February 28. Open to all under-16. Sign up at libraries or online. summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Rise in norovirus cases

Norovirus, known as the "winter vomiting bug", has been on the rise with outbreaks mainly among children in educational settings. The UK Health Security Agency says handwashing is very important as, unlike Covid-19, alcohol gels in hand sanitiser do not kill it. www.nhs.uk/norovirus

Parenting course in central/north London starting early 2023

An 8-week course to unlock the tools you need to connect with your baby or toddler & help them thrive (even when they're having a tantrum)

www.wearahatday.org

A choice to parent with kindness

When was the last time you felt you were smashing it as a parent?

Parenting can be tough. But it’s so much easier when you have the right tools to understand your children better, so that you can parent calmly and confidently, meeting your child's needs – and your own.

So where do you get these tools? "The great news is you already have all the tools you need – you just might not know how to use them, yet, said Sophie Guthrie-Kummer, director of Choices, a charity that specialises in supporting parents (www.choicesislington.org/parenting-course). "As parents we try any old thing in the heat of the moment, and it can make us feel like terrible people at times."

Prep school wins award for Innovation in Equality

An independent school in Hendon has won the ISA (Independent Schools Association) Award for Excellence and Innovation in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

Hendon Prep was applauded for innovative projects that involve marginalised communities and for having "a culture that promotes equity, diversity, and inclusivity," said Rudolf Eliott Lockhart, Chief

Holi day of colour

Earlybird tickets have been announced for the Holi Colour Dance Party in Swiss Cottage, on March 12.

Organiser Geeta Srivastava, of Magic of India, said: "It feels like a great, fun celebration of Spring and culture, and bringing the local families and communities together in a spirit of one-ness." And party-goers agree. One said: "Super friendly and a great way for Indians and non-Indians to celebrate together!"

If dancing, drummers and performers aren't enough to make a party, each ticket includes a pack of Holi colour. Earlybirds from £18. Discounts for groups.

Book at www.magicofindia.org

Meal for 4 Pasta Remoli WIN!

Pasta perfection for all the family

Here’s a fantastic chance to beat the January blues and treat the family to a fabulous FREE meal for four at one of Pasta Remoli’s iconic Italian restaurants. Even the fussiest children will love chef Simone Remoli's menu that allows diners to choose a pasta, sauce and cheese topping to create a bespoke meal. Parents will love the family-budget friendly meals too.

And for anyone following a gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian diet, don’t worry. You will never go hungry at Pasta Remoli.

Families North London has one MEAL for 4 to give away to our readers. For a chance to win

CLICK HERE

See T&Cs at bit.ly/RemoliTCs. Closing date February 28.

��Restaurants at Finsbury Park, Ealing, Westfield Stratford and Wembley Park www.pastaremoli.co.uk

London's Cherry Blossom WIN!

Make Mother's Day

We might be in the depths of winter but Spring and cherry blossom are on the horizon.

Put a spring in their step with Perform

LONDON’S CHERRY BLOSSOM

Among fans of Sakura – flowering cherry trees – is Annegret Schopp O'Dwyer, previously author of Marco Polos guide to London, who turned to photographing the blossom during the first lockdown, creating the first book about London's cherry blossom.

"I was undergoing treatment for cancer at the time, and seeing the blossom gave me moments of pure joy. I wanted to share that joy," said Annegret, a psychotherapist for 25 years. She has woven in historical facts about the streets where the blossoms appear, taking us to hidden corners and the lives of ordinary people. From the reviews, Annegret has succeeded in sharing those moments of joy. Perfect for a Mother's Day gift.

Families North London has THREE copies of London's Cherry Blossom, Beauty and History – Joy at your Fingertips, to give away. For a chance to win CLICK HERE

See T&Cs at bit.ly/blossomTCs. Closing date February 14.

London's Cherry Blossom, Beauty and History – Joy at your Fingertips, by Annegret Schopp-O'Dwyer is on Amazon.

Perform’s confidence-building classes are sure to blow away the winter cobwebs as this term sees children age 4 to 7 trapezing and somersaulting into a Circus Adventure while 7 to 12s work on a fun, funky adaptation of Robin Hood, in Outlaw. Try a free class. Venues in N1, N2, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, N13, N14, New N16, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, New NW2, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11, EC1Y, W1H. 020 7255 9120 ✉enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/try

READ MORE

For February half-term, 4-10s venture to Narnia for a holiday course based on The Lion, the Witch & the Wardobe. February 13-15, 10am to 3pm. Venues: Islington, Crouch End, West Hampstead & Primrose Hill. www.perform.org.uk/lion

READ MORE

Dangerous things (you should let your child do)

Let them experience ‘age-appropriate risk’ under adult supervision AT ALL TIMES. Research shows that it’s essential for a balanced childhood.

Use power tools

The use of a power tool is an important life skill that is good to learn early.

Spend an hour blindfolded

Challenge your child to live blindfolded–it’s fun and builds empathy.

Play with fire

It’s best children learn about fire safely with you.

Throw rocks

Children can’t resist throwing–and it can be managed safely.

Use a pocketknife

A life skill that develops with experience, whittling is a fun introduction.

Climb a tree

Another irresistible urge for children–fun and beneficial when done safely.

Blow up a bottle of coke

A classic science experiment which is spectacular–but messy!

Play conkers

This ancient British game can be safely played if done correctly.

Use a bow and arrow

Though potentially hazardous, it’s great for developing situational awareness.

Managing children’s anxiety

Claire at Bridgemaker Mindfulness shares her top tips.

Be fully present

Phone alerts and notifications are constantly distracting and family members often have to compete. Being fully present with the activity or conversation we’re having with our children - without distraction - demonstrates that we value ‘real’ time together and are fully available.

Avoid fuelling anxiety

Limit screen time

Research shows that too much screen time can lead to mental health issues in children, whilst lost time interacting with family/ peers can impact their social development. Monitor screen time, ensure content is ageappropriate, communicate about inappropriate images and model healthy device habits.

Spend time in nature

Children absorb emotions like sponges and overhearing the news or emotionally-charged adult conversation can fuel their anxiety. If your child is worrying about the future, use mindfulness to bring them back to the present moment— "right here, right now, with you, all is well." Tell them that you love them no matter what.

Nature-deficit disorder (NDD) can contribute to higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. But the good news is, it can easily be reversed. Spending time in nature is easier than we think: village greens, parks, commons and nature reserves abound in the UK and they provide the perfect setting for free family activities.

Managing children’s anxiety

Claire at Bridgemaker Mindfulness shares her top tips.

Encouraging reading

Sharing feelings

Reading is relaxing, distracting and a good alternative to screen time. A 2009 University of Sussex study found that reading can reduce stress by up to sixty eight percent. Just six minutes of relaxing into a good book can lower blood pressure and muscle tension.

Can’t fall asleep?

Children are more likely to express their feelings when they sense we are fully available. Sitting somewhere that they have to pass by when they return from being elsewhere and gently inviting them to join us can be a good start. Listen intently without moving into ‘fix-it mode.’

Enrol on a course

Creating a comforting, wind down routine can help –reading a book together, listening to soothing music. Try placing hands on the belly and, focusing on the breath, follow the gentle movement of the belly as it rises and falls. For the busy mind, try counting the breath to ten (in – 1, out – 2 etc) over and over.

Mindfulness apps/recorded meditations can help adults and children to relax and unwind but nothing compares with attending a course with a qualified mindfulness teacher which teaches key mindfulness skills. However, if, despite your best intentions and care, your child’s behaviour or anxiety level becomes worrying, do seek medical advice from a GP.

Child health & wellbeing directory

We've compiled a directory of private service providers from across North London who pride themselves on helping families and children.

Dental and Orthodontic Abbey Road Dental, www.abbeyroaddental.co.uk Heath Street Dentist, www.zental.uk Muswell Hill Smile, https://muswellhillsmile.co.uk/ Origin Orthodontics, www.origin-orthodontics.co.uk Park-Vue Dental, www.parkvuedental.co.uk

Treehouse Dental, www.treehouse.dental Zental Dental, www.zental.uk (For funded care, see www.nhs.uk/nhsservices/dentists/how-to-find-an-nhsdentist)

Eye Care

Eye Value Opticians and Holloway Hearing Centre, https://eyevalue.co.uk My-iClinic, clinics for treating eye conditions, https://my-iclinic.co.uk

Mental Health, Counselling and Coaching

(Help is also available through your GP) Dr Sara Brentwood, http://drsarabentwood.co.uk

Elijah Cognitive Skills Centre, Social communication skills, one-to-one or groups, age 18ms-5, and up to 17yrs. www.deboraelijah.com

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

Special Yoga for

Special Children

Special Yoga work is based on movement, breath work, relaxation, mindfulness, sound, massage and working with the feet.

Natalija Blazina, a certified Special Yoga practitioner, told how it can improve the lives of children with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, Down's syndrome and cerebral palsy.

Based on scientific research, it can reduce pain, build strength, co-ordination and flexibility, develop natural sleep patterns, and improve cognition, breathing and digestion. Natalija, who has 10 years experience of working with children with special needs, delivers Special Yoga on a oneto-one basis in your home or at school, and offers a discount for low income families.  07342720365 ✉ natalijaspecialyoga1@outlook. com

Harwood Child Psychology, https://harwoodchildpsychology. co.uk

Illuminate Practice, www.illuminatepractice.com Islington Child Counselling, therapeutic counselling with arts and play, https://islingtonchildcounselling.com Little Bee Clinic, www.littlebeeclinic.com

Child health & wellbeing directory

London Child and Adolescent Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, http://londonchildcbt.co.uk MindOf, www.mindof.uk

My Child Therapy Centre, www.mychildtherapycentre.co.uk

North London Child and Adolescent Services, http://northlondoncaps.com Rephael House, private, and low-cost and fully-funded services for those eligible, www.rephaelhouse.org.uk

Dr Jo Rosenberg, www.drjorosenberg.co.uk

Sarah Sudea, family coaching for 1118s and their parents , www.sarahsudea.com ToddlersTeensandBetween, www.toddlersteensandbetween.com

The Summit Clinic, https://thesummitclinic.co.uk Healthcare 999 Medical Centre, www.999medical.com

Chase Lodge Hospital, www.chaselodgehospital.com Kids Gastro Care, www.kidsgastrocare.co.uk

Parenting

Choices Circle of Security Course, build strong connections and understand behaviour, www. choicesislington.org/parentingcourse

Physical Therapies

MAES Therapy, helping babies and children with movement disorders and cerebral palsy, https://maestherapy.com

Yoga and Mindfulness

Little Yoga Art Club, tots to teens, N6, N8, www.happity.co.uk/the-little-yogaart-club

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

Smile Kids Yoga, N8, www.smilekids.yoga Sound & Meditation workshops, free for Barnet children, 8-11s https:// barnetyouth.uk/session/SoundMeditation- Workshops-/139920 12+ https://barnetyouth.uk/ session/Sound- MeditationWorkshops-/139933

Special Yoga for Special Children, yoga for special needs, ✉ natalijaspecialyoga1@outlook.com  07342720365

Yoga 4 Happiness, private sessions for children and families, www.yoga4happiness.com Yogaloom & Pilates, N10, www.yogaloom.com

Listings are provided for information only and should not be regarded as recommendations. Your GP can refer you for NHS-funded counselling and mental healthcare, and NHS treatment is available, free at the point of delivery, for some other services though not necessarily with these providers.

Family meals made easier

What is batch cooking?

Cooking multiple meals at one time and then storing for later use.

Food is cooked in a ‘batch’, then stored in airtight containers. Meals are stored in portions for ease.

Batch cooking often involves doubling, tripling or quadrupling ingredients.

What you need

Big pans: you’re cooking bulk so ensure you have enough big pans to cope.

Large mixing bowls to bring all those ingredients together.

Storage containers and resealable freezer bags: Choose the right size for your family.

Labels: Keep track of what you have and when you cooked it.

Intro to batch cooking

Benefits of batch cooking

Saves money: buying food in bulk is cheaper. Saves time: you don’t need to cook every evening.

You are cooking when you want to and not when you have to.

It’s healthier as you always have a tasty nutritious meal on hand.

Top tips

Set aside a few hours so you’re not rushed.

Prepare ingredients: weighing, measuring and chopping first will make the job easier.

Clean as you go and, if making several recipes at once, tidy up as you go too.

Cool before you freeze: food will keep better and save fridge energy.

Meal planning

This 2 minute video from The Batch Lady shows exactly what you’ll need to start batch cooking freezer meals.

This short video from The Batch Lady offers a great rundown on how to plan weekly meals for your family.

Best batch cooking recipes

Macaroni

Parties & Celebrations

Little Supernovas create imaginative parties with an adventure tailored to your child’s wishes and theme and include all their favourite magical characters and stories. Our parties incorporate action storytelling, music, props, drama, movement and plenty of giggles. We run Holiday Clubs too. www.littlesupernovas.com/parties ✉hello@littlesupernovas.com

N-Sun Café (Ballards Lane, Finchley, N3) kids cafe with soft play, spacious venue for parties, classes and activities too. 07399947748. https://n-sun.co.uk

After Sch Club/Education

We are a Chinese language school SA in 2015 specialising in innovative Mandarin language courses for children aged 3-12 in London. Classes suitable for children with or without Mandarin background. At Giggling Panda the focus is very much on fun. We guarantee an immersive experience full of stories, art, crafts, games, songs, poems about Chinese history and traditions, and formal language learning through professional in-house content. Classes at weekends, various choices, at North/East Finchley and Watford. Contact us for a trial on 0793 249 4420 ✉admin@gigglingpanda.co.uk www.gigglingpanda.co.uk

Ant Learning

Highly recommended and sought after professional tutoring, experienced in developing and preparing children to learn, lead and succeed all around. Reading, English, Maths, verbal and nonverbal reasoning, ages 3 ½ -13. Book a trial and free assessment today 0208 050 5798. www.antlearning.co.uk

After-School Learning

The After-School Learning Centre caters for all children aged 4-18 and Is totally dedicated to helping your child achieve the best grades possible in English, Maths, Science, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning and Mandarin through personalised and tailored one-to-one tutoring. Located in North London and Southgate. www.afterschoollearning.com

Magic of India Hindi Classes

Speak from the first lesson. No previous knowledge needed. Small group zoom classes. Missed class support. Classes: 5-7, 8-14, 16-adult. New toddler singalong. Private lessons. Free trial class. Quick learning holiday clubs too. "Geeta uses English teaching methods and merges them with songs, poems, drawing, colouring, and various innovative methods so children are engaged in learning Hindi and at the same time learn about their culture." magicofindia.org

Giggling Panda Chinese School

Hillgate Tutors

We offer support from age 5 to university, understanding your child’s needs and matching them with one of our highly-qualified passionate educators who will create a tailored learning plan. Hillgate Tutors listen, guide, encourage and monitor them to help your child achieve their absolute best. Tutoring at your home or online. 07748 956581 to discuss. www.hillgatetutors.co.uk

Vincent & Frida

Art appreciation lessons designed to ignite in your child, a love for art and its stories. Art will become much more than pictures to them and your child will enter the world of wonder. We offer private lessons, holiday workshops and family sessions. Discover more www.vincentandfrida.com

Performing Arts

YPS of Acting

Students learn acting in a fun, inclusive and exhilarating space. High-quality weekly classes for 1018s taught by professional actors. Act for screen, accents, fight combat and more. Up to 3 industry workshops a term. Audition entry only. All experience levels welcome. Week 1 acts as a trial. Info@theyoungactingpro.com 07342 189 886 Fb/Insta: @ypsofacting www.TheYoungProSchoolofActing. com

Achieve Arts

Unlock creativity, solo speaking skills, performance skills, confidence, improvisation and characterisation at our classes for 4-16s, in Crouch End, Muswell Hill, New Harringay Ladder, Tufnell Park, Hampstead Garden Suburb, New Mill Hill, and Pinner. Online too. 100% Lamda success rate. Book a free trial. www.achievearts.co.uk

Lemon Jelly Arts

Performing arts classes, holiday workshops, LAMDA and in-school workshops/PPA cover. We nurture talent in every child and help them to release confidence for whatever their future holds. We aim to give them the courage to pursue any dream! Classes in Mill Hill and East Barnet. Jelly Tots 3-5 years, Academy Classes 5-7s and 8-10s, Fusion Theatre Company 11+. 01858 545599 ✉office@lemonjellyarts.com www.lemonjellyarts.com

Stagecoach Highgate

We aim to bring out the best in your child and we’re not just talking about their new-found skills in dancing, singing and acting. Our students also develop excellent communication skills, grow in selfesteem and enjoy the benefits of improved confidence! We welcome children of all abilities from the age of four to 16 years and offer two-week trials. To find out more visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/highgate

Perform Classes

Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Holiday clubs. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class.

Venues: N1, N2, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, N13, N14, New N16, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, New NW2, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11, EC1Y, W1H

February half-term holiday club: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, 3 fun-packed days of magic, drama, dance & singing for 4-10s. Feb 13-15, 10am-3pm. Venues: Islington, West Hampstead, Crouch End, Primrose Hill. www.perform.org.uk/lion 020 7255 9120 ✉enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

Health & Wellbeing

Special Yoga for Special Children

Special Yoga methodology to improve the lives of children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, Down’s syndrome, cerebral palsy. Benefits include improved sleep, behaviour and emotional balance among others. Over 10 years experience. Discount for low income families. ✉ natalijaspeciayoga1@outlook. com  07342 720365

Schools & Nurseries

Hyland House School

A Christian, independent school, we empower our 2 to 11-year-olds to aim high and dream big. Our children are achieving excellence. Our Early Years is Ofsted-graded Outstanding. Years 1-6 are graded Good. Please contact us for more information or to arrange a visit. Hyland House School is at 97 Holcombe Road, Tottenham, London, N17 9AB. 020 8520 4186. ✉info@hylandhouseschool.org www.hylandhouseschool.org

Mars Montessori

Mars Montessori in Angel is a small bilingual French-English Montessori nursery. We provide very highquality childcare in a nurturing environment in two languages. In September 2018, we introduced an Introduction to Mandarin programme, and we are proud of the brilliant take up. In April 2018, we were given the highest possible rating of OUTSTANDING by Ofsted in every category. 020 7099 0452 www.bilingualnurseries.com

King Alfred School

We know that each child is unique and has their own set of strengths and areas to develop. Our child-centred approach allows us to foster joy and understanding of the learning process. We have instituted childfriendly, rigourous and informal testing. We celebrate commitment, curiousity, courage and compassion to create the foundations for happy, successful and fulfilling lives. We are rated excellent in all areas.

www.kingalfred.org.uk

North Bridge House Schools

Independent school for children aged 2 to 18, on six locations for different age groups. We understand that success is not simply defined by outstanding academic achievement, but by every pupil finding a direction in life that truly reflects their unique talents and personality. Call admissions to check for occasional immediate places on 020 7428 1520. www.northbridgehouse.com

Dwight School London

We’ve been igniting the spark of genius in every child since 1872, and provide a world class education for children age 2-18 at our international school. We follow the rich rich and stimulating International Baccalaureate programmes. Open days: Senior Jan 12, Junior Jan 17. www.dwightlondon.org

Hendon Prep

Independent school and independentlyrated outstanding preschool, in north London, for boys and girls from 3-11 years old. We understand every child is unique and offer a vibrant and creative curriculum in a nurturing and stimulating school environment. To find out more contact admissions at admissions@hendonprep.co.uk 020 8203 7727.

Maria Montessori School

We offer authentic Montessori education for 2-12-year-olds in 5 locations: Abbey Road, Hampstead, Bayswater, Notting Hill and Hornsey Rise. Join a school open day to learn about the Montessori approach and watch demonstrations of Montessori materials, meet teachers and ask questions. To register for an event, please go to bit.ly/MMIvisit

Baby & Toddler

Colourstrings

– for a brilliant start and long-term success in music! Develop your child’s musical talent in Kodaly-based music kindergartens and instrumental programmes from six months – 19 years. Call 020 8444 9435 for a trial of 3 discounted lessons or email admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk

Diddidance We create a funky pre-school dance class suitable for all children. We are here to nurture their love of movement in a relaxed environment and cover 16 dance styles. Classes are suitable for toddlers aged from 18 months upwards however if they’re younger and steady on their feet, come and join us! We run classes in Enfield, Cheshunt and Potters Bar. Constantina—07983972095 ✉constantina.menezes@diddidance.com www.diddidance.com

Tiny Talk Learn to communicate with your baby before they can speak, at an award-winning TinyTalk baby signing class. Interactive music class and sensory activities, plus time for a cuppa. www.TinyTalk.co.uk/zahrak

Sports & Exercise

St Kiernan’s Gaelic Football Club

Inclusive, fun environment for kids and adults to learn this high intensity game. Teams from under-6s to senior men and ladies of all abilities. We welcome newcomers to all age groups and the sport can be picked up easily from our excellent coaches. Summer training at our new facility at King George Playing Fields, Barnet Lane, EN5. Winter training is at Woodhouse College, North Finchley. Call Chris Byrne on 07984 184003 or Declan Ryan on 07818 023639.

Grown-ups Matter Too

Choices

Explore your parenting struggles in a welcoming environment. Our Circle of Security

Parenting course helps parents from all backgrounds understand how to meet their babies and toddlers’ real emotional needs providing secure foundations lasting into adulthood. We also offer counselling for those with other concerns including unplanned pregnancy, anxiety during pregnancy and pregnancy loss. A member of the British Assocation of Counselling and Psychotherapy. www.choicesislington.org/ parenting-course

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New online children’s physio directory

Parents wanting to locate a local children’s physiotherapist can now use an online directory launched by Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists.

The majority of children’s physiotherapists work in the NHS. Your GP can advise about local services and make a referral, if appropriate. However, some parents choose to seek advice and treatment from an independent or private physiotherapist either instead of, or to supplement, NHS care. Many children need support from a physiotherapist at some time during their childhood. This may be sought for advice and treatment relating to posture and movement or for acute injuries.

Qualified children’s physiotherapists are regulated, have additional expertise in child development and childhood conditions and the right skill base and knowledge to deliver the best care for babies and children.