Families East London Issue 75 Sept /Oct 2013

Issue 75 Sept/Oct 2013

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East London

Autumn issue

Back to school Annabel Karmel Halloween

PLUS East London Clubs and Classes

AnnAbel KArmel’s FAvourites

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Contents Issue 75 | Sept / Oct 2013 | Families East London

This Issue

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4 Back to School 8 Special Needs 9 Return to Work 10 Annabel Karmel 11 Halloween

Regular Features

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12 Ed’s Reading Room 13 Clubs & Classes 21 Places to go

Welcome Families East London Magazine 120 Brent Street, Hendon, London NW4 2DT For all news and features contact: editor@familieseast.co.uk or call 020 8202 2034 For all advertising enquiries contact: adverts@familieseast.co.uk or call 020 8202 2034 For all web enquiries contact: melanie@familieseast.co.uk or call 020 8202 2034 For all listing enquiries contact: listings@familieseast.co.uk

I am delighted to have taken over Families East London Magazine. I look forward to bringing you a really useful guide to family life and fun in East London over the coming months. In this issue we have covered a range of topics from Back to School to Places to Go. I hope you enjoy the magazine. Do let me know.

Contact me at editor@familieseast.co.uk. Until next time.

Sharon Editor

Families East London Ltd cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, details are subject to change and Families East London take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any material. All rights reserved.

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0845 400 1271 3

back to school

Is your child ready to learn every day?

Some deceptively obvious advice for parents

By Wendy Flynn

The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) and the charity Family Action have launched a joint Ready to Learn Every Day Campaign aimed at helping parents to support their children’s learning.

Families magazine talked to NAHT President, Bernadette Hunter, about the campaign and why their advice is relevant to all parents.

Research shows that children are best placed to succeed in school when parents are actively involved in their education.

But that is not all about helping out when they get stuck with homework.

In fact, preparing children to be ready for learning can be far more basic – like making sure they know how to take turns and to listen; that they go to bed on time; have breakfast before going to school, and turn up on time, having remembered their pencil case, PE kit and homework.

The first NAHT and Family Action Ready to Learn Every Day guide covers these sorts of issues: bedtimes, family routines, organisation, behaviour, communicating with your child and spending time with them.

Common sense – yes. Obvious….?

Well, yes, but deceptively so. You don’t have to dig very deep to realise that the advice is relevant for all parents. Modern life is certainly hectic. With many of us working long hours, and constantly pressed for time, even those with the very best of intentions can forget the basics.

A Human Resource manager shamefacedly admitted to me that, when her child started school, the teacher called her aside and told her daughter was falling asleep in class because she was so tired.

Bernadette is not surprised. ‘Not all parents realise how much sleep their child actually needs (under 5s need 15 hours and older primary school children should have 10 hours.). And not all parents realise that if you allow your child to watch TV or play on the computer before going to bed, they will have trouble going to sleep,’ she says.

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Bernadette stresses the importance of talking and listening to children and spending time with them. Again, selfevident – but think about it for a moment!

How many of us harried parents will recognise situations in which we have been checking e-mails or texts as our child was speaking to us? I’d hazard a guess most of us have been there. And many of us (however good we are as parents) would probably admit to having allowed a child watch TV rather than play with them because we were simply too tired?

But as Bernadette explains, there is more active learning in traditional games than in passive viewing.

‘Sometimes parents find it difficult to find the time to sit down and play with their children – it is easier to put something on the TV than to play the traditional type of games. But when you play a traditional board game, as well as being fun, children are learning to cooperate when they play, to take turns and to understand rules. They are picking up lots of key skills – speaking, listening and concentrating.’

Ironically, while we are living in an age of 24/7 communication – instant messaging, Skyping and TV on demand – these very same tools are taking their toll on communication at home. Family meal times, where children learned to talk and to listen, are waning, and traditional board games are giving way to solo computer games and screen time.

The first of the four Ready to Learn Every Day Guides urges parents to set aside time for talking without being interrupted by TV, radio, phones or computer; time where we REALLY do listen to our children, talk to them about their day, and tell them about ours. It also suggests that we share books or play games in a quiet environment away from the TV, and that we play games like jigsaws and board games that encourage concentration.

The guide also asks parent to support children by establishing set family routines for bedtimes, mealtimes and homework and recommends having a regular time for a family meal. ‘It doesn’t have to be every day, but even just at weekends where everyone has a meal together and talks as a family,’ says Bernadette.

With busy lifestyles and a culture of TV dinners, Bernadette fears we risk

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losing these communication skills which were passed down from generation to generation. ‘What we are seeing now are some young parents who have never experienced eating together as a family,’ she says.

The guide talks too about good manners – encouraging children to say, please and thank you and not interrupting others when they are speaking. If at home we agree on realistic rules for behaviour and stick to them, children will also understand they need to stick to rules at school.

Bernadette readily says some of the advice – like bedtimes – might seem obvious, but she adds: ‘We know from talking to parents that they can really welcome this advice.

The Ready to Learn Every Day series of leaflets are about giving parents the confidence to set the boundaries for their children.’

Perhaps it is good news for those of us who feel daunted by hot-housing and tiger parenting. The crucial factors in determining our children’s success in school and beyond could well be the time we spend talking to and playing with them, and the ground-rules and routines we establish for them at home. It could be that simple!

The Ready to Learn Every Day Guide can be downloaded from www.familyaction.org.uk/naht This leaflet will be followed this Autumn by a guide for parents to develop children’s speaking and listening skills Later in the year there will be a parents’ guide to helping with schoolwork; and a final parents’ guide in the Summer Term about helping children with transitions – from one class to another, and moving on to secondary school.

Family Action is a charity that supports and strengthens vulnerable and disadvantaged families throughout England. The charity knows from experience how vital it is that all parents get the support and advice they need to ensure that the home environment really supports learning and that their children are ready to do their best in school each and every day. And teachers see the results when the children are in school.

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back to school

R E A DY TO L E A RN E V E R Y D AY !

This joint NAHT and Family Action guide is based on the latest research about what helps children to succeed at school Talking and listening It is really important to talk to your child and listen to them.

Finding time for both can be so difficult with busy lives!

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Set aside time for talking – without being interrupted by phones, TV, radio, computer etc!

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Tell them about your day and encourage them to tell you about theirs

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Don’t interrupt your child, be patient and allow them time to speak

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Ask your child for their opinions and value what they say

Working out a family routine •

Children like routine so try to have regular times for going to bed and getting up, mealtimes and family time

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Make sure they have a healthy breakfast at home or at the school’s Breakfast Club

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Have a regular time for a meal together in the evening

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Try to make time for homework, reading and talking together and bedtime stories

Getting enough sleep Spending time together You can help your child if you: •

Share books and games in a quiet environment – not in front of the TV!

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Play games together as a family that encourage concentration, such as jigsaws and board games

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Encourage physical play and exercise by taking a trip to the park or the local leisure centre

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Give lots of hugs and praise

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Children need sleep to develop, to concentrate in school and to learn well

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Under fives need up to 15 hours, primary children about 10 hours and even older children still need 9 hours

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Too many late bedtimes can make it hard for them to learn

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A good night’s rest will help your child feel happy all day long

Behaving well •

Agree clear and realistic rules and stick to them!

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Encourage your child to always say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ and not to interrupt you or others when you are talking

Being prepared!

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Check your child has their name in everything they bring to school

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Make sure your child remembers to bring everything they need each day – reading book, PE kit, homework

Support school rules and encourage your child to follow these

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Keep in contact with the school and let them know if you change phone numbers and addresses

Ask for help if your child’s behaviour is proving difficult at home

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If you have concerns about your child’s wellbeing, tell school as soon as possible so they can help to find solutions to any problems

We want to work together with you to make sure your child feels happy, cared for, safe and ready to learn

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back to school

Which secondary is right for my child?

Joanna Moorhead on the 20 things you need to know when choosing ‘big school’

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Make your own mind up. It’s amazing how many parents never even look round a school because of what they’ve heard. A school that doesn’t suit another family could be just right for yours

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Listen to your child’s feelings as well as your own. Choosing his or her primary was down to just you and your partner; but your 10 or 11-year-old deserves a say.

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Use open days wisely. If you can, go to a daytime visit (especially to a school that seems a strong contender) because you’ll see it in working mode.

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Pay attention to what’s on the walls – and not just the artwork. What are children being warned about, or encouraged to do? Are there any school visits being advertised? What clubs seem to be thriving?

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Look at the school’s league tables, but don’t pin everything on them. Read the Ofsted report too and pay particular attention to how the school has done over time. If it’s had a dip, are there signs of improvement or suggestions that it could turn round?

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Where do pupils go on to from this school? You want to see at least some youngsters doing well academically and aiming for good courses at top universities.

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How about the staff – do they seem happy and fulfilled working there?

Take opportunities to chat to them.

Go to the head teacher’s talk and take your notebook. This is an important part of the event: not only do you need to pick up on the head’s attitude and values and what matters most to him or her, but you also need to pay special attention to anything that’s said about the entrance criteria. Understanding that is the crucial next stage.

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Nothing advertises a school like its pupils.

Do they seem happy? Are they polite? If you have time, hang around in the area at home time. Are they well-behaved?

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Listen to your instincts. If a school doesn’t feel right, move on. You don’t have to explain yourself or your reasons for doing so to anyone else (although you do, of course, need to discuss it with your child if your instincts are different).

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Don’t get bogged down in the detail: what you’re aiming to get is a sense of the school.

Does it feel happy, productive, calm? Is there a sense of order and caring? These things matter more than the nitty-gritty.

If you like a school, do your homework about whether your child fits its entrance requirements. However much you love the school, and however much you think your child would thrive there, you’ll only get a place if you fulfil the criteria. Read the school’s entrance policy through very, very carefully. If you don’t fulfil the requirements, could you change something so you do? If not, move on: there’s no point in wasting a choice or railing against something you can’t change.

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You’re bound to talk to other parents, and you want to talk to other parents, but don’t get pulled along by their tide. Do your own research and develop your own views: knowledge is power.

Why we should all walk to school

worldwide to celebrate the benefits of walking to school and this October is no different, with the month-long activity encouraging pupils to walk to school at least once a week. Many parents know that walking is actually quicker and less stressful than taking the car and they value the

Think about your child’s talents and interests and ponder carefully whether they’ll be catered for. But think too about what the school offers that might be harder to pick up at home. We’re a family of journalists, where

Beat the traffic and get you and your kids out in the fresh air during International Walk to School Month this October. Each year, primary school children from across the UK join forces with over 40 countries

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literacy is easier for us as parents; so I’m glad my girls went to a school that specialised in maths and science, even though these weren’t their strongest subjects.

www.familieseast.co.uk

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Keep telling yourself (because it’s true!) that there is no perfect school.

Every school has strengths and weaknesses.

There’s more than one school that can be right for your child.

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When the time comes to fill in the forms, allow yourself lots of time and do it extremely carefully. There may be supplementary forms, and there may be complicated arrangements for giving them in (especially if you’re applying to faith schools).

If you find it all too confusing, talk to your child’s primary teacher or primary head, or call the education department at your local authority.

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Have a plan of action for what you’ll do if you don’t get the school you’re hoping for. Just having that plan will make you feel more relaxed.

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Remember that there’s a lot of movement in the first few weeks after places are allocated, and many children get in from waiting lists.

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Don’t underestimate how much hard work an appeal can be, or how emotionally draining. That’s not to say don’t do it: just be prepared.

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Remember that, at the end of the day, parents make more difference to a child’s future than a school does. Even if your child doesn’t get into your first choice of school (and one in seven didn’t last year) your attitude to that could be a much bigger factor in what happens next for your child than the school itself. Have confidence, first and foremost, in your child. And believe that, together, you will work things out if and when you come up against problems.

opportunity to spend quality time with their children. It also increases air quality with fewer cars on the streets and strengthen communities, where children and parents are seen in the streets! Stop moaning about the traffic … start clearing it! www.livingstreets. org.uk

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back to school

School Open Days BREntWooD SChooL Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood, Essex CM15 8EE 01277 243243 (Senior School) brentwoodschool.co.uk Independent Day & Boarding School 3-18 years. open Morning October 5 Visit all parts of the school – Preparatory, Senior School and Sixth Form. Private tours can also be requested.

ChiGWELL SChooL High Road, Chigwell, Essex IG7 6QF 020 8501 5700 Independent School 4-18 years.

Main open Day September 28 open Morning 4+ and 7+ October 12 open Evening Sixth Form November 7 open Morning 11+ November 9 City oF LonDon BoyS Queen Victoria Street, EC4V 3AL 020 7489 0291 clsb.co.uk Independent School Boys 10-18 years open Afternoons September 24, 26, October 10, 15, 17, November 5, 7 (13+ entry), 14, 19, 21, December 3 Book via email or call.

City oF LonDon GiRLS St Giles’ Terrace, EC2Y 8BB 020 7847 5500 clsg.co.uk Independent School Girls 7-18 years open Days 7+ entry September 10, 19, October 1 open Days 11+ entry September 27, October 2, 17 CooPERSALE hALL SChooL Flux’s Lane, Epping, Essex CM16 7PE 01992 577133 coopersalehallschool.co.uk Independent Primary and Preparatory School 2½ -11 years. open Morning October 4 Children welcome on tours but crèche facility also available. Private tours by arrangement.

CRAnBRooK Mansfield Road, Ilford, Essex IG1

020 8554 1757 cranbrook-school.uk Independent School 3-18 years. open Days No specific open days. Personal visits arranged as requested.

Eton CoLLEGE Windsor SL4 6DW 01753 671000 etoncollege.com Independent School Boys 13-18 years introductory tours A small number of funded places available for state school children.

Public tours Short guided tours on selected dates.

Cost £7.50/£6.50.

FoRESt SChooL Snaresbrook, E17 3PY 020 8520 1744 Independent School Girls & Boys 4-11 years, Girls School 11-16 years, Boys School 11-16 years, Sixth Form Co-ed.

oAKLAnDS SChooL 8 Albion Hill, Loughton, Essex, IG10 020 8508 3517 oaklandsschool.co.uk Independent School 2½ -11 years. open Morning October 3 Confirm attendance or to arrange a personal visit.

inDEPEnDEnt SChooLS ShoW Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ ( Sloane Square) schoolsshow.co.uk november 9, 10 Help and advice on choosing a school.

Register for free tickets. £10 on door.

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open Day September 21 information Morning 11+ October 5, November 16 Separate 11+ information morning for Boys School and Girls School admissions.

LonDon oRAtoRy SChooL Seagrave Road, SW6 1RX 0207 385 0102 london-oratory.org Catholic Academy Boys 11-18 Mixed Sixth Form.

Sixth Form open Day September 19, October 9 junior house open Day October 2, November 7 Specialist musical education entrance at 7 years. noRMAn huRSt SChooL 68-74 Station Road, North Chingford E4 7BA 020 8529 4307 normanhurstsch.co.uk Independent Junior & Senior School 2½ -16 years. open Evening October 3 Kindergarten, Reception, Infant, Junior and Seniors. Personal visits by arrangement. open Morning October 4 Early Years and Reception.

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special needs

The Benefits of Inclusion

By Rachael Ross, Chair, Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association

When I went to school in the mid ‘70s and ‘80s, children with any form of disability were not actively encouraged into mainstream education.

This absence of anyone with a disability was also reflected in the wider community.

Consequently when I left school, and for much of my early adult life, I had never even met or spoken to a person with a disability, leaving me awkward and unsure how to interact in their company.

Thankfully times have changed, and children with a wide variety of additional needs are now commonplace in mainstream education. Children like my son Max. Max is eight and happens to have Down syndrome. Until the 1970s it was still widely believed that children with Down syndrome were uneducable, and they were denied that most fundamental of childhood rights; an education. We now know that with right specialist support these children can learn alongside their peers, and today, more children than ever before are being successfully included in mainstream schools. That’s not to say that special schools do not play an equally important role. It has to be a decision based on what’s best for each individual child and their specific needs.

For Max, the benefits in attending mainstream education are huge. Speech and language issues are a significant problem for nearly all children with Down syndrome, and can lead to frustration and isolation if not tackled head on. Studies show that when they attend mainstream school, these children develop at least two years faster with spoken language and literacy.

They also benefit from having positive role models. Max needs to be around his typically developing peers, not just for PE and playtime, but there needs to be meaningful interaction. He needs to feel that he is part of the class, part of the wider school community, with the same opportunities and responsibilities as the other children. Otherwise how can we expect him to interact successfully with society as an adult?

We are very fortunate that Max’s teachers have created a welcoming and caring environment where he is very much a part of school life. When we visit,

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I am always overwhelmed by the genuine affection and friendship shown to Max by both staff and pupils. Many of the children have grown up with Max, and see it as nothing unusual that he is in their class working with them.

In turn, I’m sure the children benefit from being with Max. They learn to celebrate differences. They learn acceptance and patience, and will hopefully grow into more tolerant adults which will lead to a more accepting and integrated society.

Inclusion is helping to steadily improve society’s attitude towards Down syndrome, fuelled by more positive media portrayal.

Several top retailers including M&S, Next and Boden have used children with Down syndrome in their advertising campaigns.

Actors with Down syndrome have played characters in popular TV shows such as Glee and Downton Abbey. Individuals are becoming role models, and are themselves changing misconceptions, like Simon Beresford, who in 2007 became the first person with Down syndrome to complete the London Marathon, and now eight marathons later is an inspiration for people around the world.

More is being achieved than ever before, but there is a still a long way to go. Down syndrome is the most common cause of intellectual disability and yet funding does not reflect this. The situation has worsened in the recent economic climate, and parents are becoming increasingly frustrated by the lack of access to specialist support like speech and language therapy, which help enable

We have seen glimpses of what can be achieved as children with the right skills and support go on to lead more independent lives and become valued members of their communities.

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their children to participate in mainstream education. As the Coalition Government plans to ‘end the bias towards mainstream’, there is a real risk that 30 years of slow uphill progress will be undermined unless there is adequate investment in training, research, resources and specialist support.

We have seen glimpses of what can be achieved as children with the right skills and support go on to lead more independent and productive lives, enter employment, and become valued members of their communities. But as yet, there has never been an entire generation of children with Down syndrome that has passed through the system with adequate and sustained support in all areas of need, continuing into early adulthood. Until this happens, we will never be sure of their true capabilities.

Rachael is the Chair of Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association (Footprints) which offers friendship, advice and a wide range of educational services to children, their families, schools and professionals in Portsmouth and across the South East. To find out more visit www.footprintsds.org.

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return to work

New beginnings Does ‘back to school’ inspire you to get ‘back to work’?

Have you taken a career break to look after your children and now feel ready for a new challenge? Do you want to return to work but lack the confidence to do anything about it? With your kids at school, are you feeling a bit lost and unsure of exactly what it is you want to do? Fiona, Career Coach from Inspired Mums, gives her guide on helping mums return to the workplace.

A journey not a race Returning to the world of work and finding the right career for you is no quick fix – but more a journey with stepping stones. Take the time to work out what you want from your career, draw on previous experience to understand what motivates you. One of the keys to happiness is finding work you love. So often I hear my coaching clients say ‘I’ll do anything as long as it fits around the kids’. This is a common mistake mums make – they prioritise other people and then feel deeply unfulfilled and dissatisfied when they realise they are doing something that doesn’t motivate them or undervalues their skills.

Be positive The thought of returning to the world of work can be extremely daunting for mums who have taken time off. After months or years focusing on the needs of young children, it can be hard to remember what skills and strengths you can offer in a work context. Think back to what you were like before having children – when you had a great day at work, what skills were you using?

What are your natural strengths and attributes? Now, think of all the ways you have developed since you’ve had children. It may be that you are more self-confident or better at juggling different responsibilities, all skills that will be valuable to you in the workplace.

Boost your confidence One of the biggest barriers for mums to overcome when planning to return to work is a lack of confidence. Many mums say to me during coaching programmes ‘my skills are no longer relevant’ or ‘I can’t see how my skills from my previous roles/industry are transferable anywhere else’. This is particularly common with mums who are taking a big career change.

More often than not, these are ‘stories’ we tell ourselves that aren’t backed up by facts – they are simply doubts that are holding you back.

Research job roles and speak to

Return to Work

employers to find out what skills they are looking for. Then think about how you need to sell yourself on paper and in interviews to demonstrate how your skills and attributes match what they are looking for. You may also want to do a refresher course, which can boost your confidence and get you up-to-date with the latest developments in your field.

Do your research Are you spending hours looking for flexible jobs on the internet, but not finding anything that fits the bill?

Remember that many jobs aren’t advertised, so you need to be creative about finding a suitable role. Once you have an idea of what it is you want to do, make sure you research it thoroughly so that you head off in the right direction.

This will help you confirm whether you are taking the right path so that you end up with a job that fulfills and motivates you. Below are some ideas to inspire you in your creative job search: • U se the internet to research employment prospects – check salary expectations, career progression and what qualifications and experience are needed for your chosen career.

• Network in person – talk to excolleagues, friends, or friends of friends who do roles that you are interested in and get some inside information.

• Network via social media – LinkedIn and Facebook are great tools for extending your contacts and reaching people in your target organisations.

• Work experience or work-shadowing can be an invaluable way of finding out more about a specific career. It will also help you talk convincingly in interviews and demonstrate a true interest in that type of role.

• Take a part-time or temporary contract – it will give you a very useful insight and update your CV. • If you want to retrain, take the time to speak to the course providers to find out what is involved and what you might be able to do with your qualifications at the end of the course.

planning on returning to the workplace.

Keep positive and stay focused as you embark on this exciting new stage of your journey and remember, ‘It’s never too late to be who you might have been’ – George Eliot.

Fiona Clark is a qualified Career & Confidence Coach who specialises in helping Mums find fulfilling & family friendly careers. For help with any aspect of your career development, or if you would like a free consultation, please contact Fiona on 07789 597209 or fiona@inspiredmums.co.uk. www.inspiredmums.co.uk

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9

recipes

Annabel Karmel

I am delighted to be working with Families East London, and in this issue have some delicious back to school lunch box recipes to share with you all.

Lunch boxes do not need to be the same boring sandwich every day, and neither should it have to take all morning to prepare.

It is often hard to be inspired by lunchboxes and trying to get your children to eat a range of healthy meals that you know are going to get eaten!

The key to making healthy and tasty lunchboxes with a good variety is to think about what you are going to give them in advance, not on the morning!

Cook the rice in boiling salted water, add the peas 4 minutes before the end of the cooking time. Drain and refresh in cold water. Measure the remaining ingredients into a large bowl. Add the cooked rice and peas, then flake in the cold salmon and any juices from the foil. Season well, then cover and chill for half an hour before serving.

Salmon and Rice Salad From Annabel Karmel Favourites ‘Lunchboxes’ (Sainsbury’s series) Salmon contains omega 3 essential fatty acids which are great brain boosters. This salad is a healthy meal all in one dish.

From Annabel Karmel Favourites ‘Lunchboxes’ (Sainsbury’s series) These deliciously moist muffins are very easy to make and will keep well for up to five days. They are good for breakfast and can be eaten on the way to school if your child is in a rush.

Ingredients

Ingredients

300g salmon fillet A knob of butter 200g long grain rice 200g frozen garden peas 1 red pepper, finely diced ½ cucumber, peeled, seeds removed and diced 1 small bunch spring onions, finely sliced 2 tbsp flat leaf parsley, chopped 2 tbsp dill, chopped 2 tbsp chives, chopped 2 tbsp olive oil 3 tbsp rice wine vinegar 1 tsp runny honey salt and freshly ground black pepper

Oriental Plum Chicken Wraps From Annabel Karmel Favourites ‘Lunchboxes’ (Sainsbury’s series) These chicken wraps are just the right size to pop in your lunchbox and are super quick to make.

Ingredients

Method Pre heat the oven to 180°C / 350°F. Put the salmon fillet onto a piece of foil on a baking sheet with a knob of butter. Seal the foil to look like a parcel, and cook in the oven for 15 minutes until cooked through. Remove from the oven and leave to cool.

Alternatively you could cut the salmon into chunks, put it into a saucepan and poach in fish stock over a medium to low heat for about 7 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

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Apple And Carrot Muffins

4 tbsp light mayonnaise 1 tbsp plum sauce 1 cooked chicken breast, sliced Quarter small cucumber, thinly sliced into strips 4 spring onions, sliced into strips 4 tortilla wraps Method Mix the mayonnaise and plum sauce together. Warn the wraps in the oven, microwave or in a frying pan for one minute. Spread a little mayonnaise mixture along one side of a wrap. Top with chicken, spring onion and cucumber. Roll up, then slice into three pieces on the diagonal.

MAKES 12 PIECES

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125g wholemeal flour 50g (2 oz) caster sugar 25g (1 oz) dried skimmed milk powder 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground ginger 125ml (4 fl oz) vegetable oil 1 tbsp honey 3 tbsp maple syrup 2 eggs, lightly beaten ½ tsp vanilla essence 1 large apple, peeled and grated 75g (3 oz) carrots, peeled and grated 60g (2 ½ oz) raisins Method: Pre-heat the oven to 180°C/350F/Gas 4.

Combine the flour, sugar, skimmed milk powder, baking powder, cinnamon salt and ginger in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the oil, honey, maple syrup, eggs and vanilla essence. Beat lightly with a wire whisk until blended. Add the grated apple, carrots and raisins to the liquid mixture and stir well. Line a muffin tray with paper cups and fill until two-thirds full. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You can also make mini muffins which are ideal for children they will take 15 to 20 minutes to bake. Suitable for freezing From 1 year.

MAKES 12 MUFFINS

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halloween

Halloween Emma Angel, Director of Angels Fancy Dress, writes:

Halloween is becoming increasingly popular every year, and it now ranks only behind Christmas and Easter in terms of consumer expenditure in this country.

While it has been a family-orientated holiday in the United States for a number of years, it is only relatively recently that the UK has followed suit.

Initially, it was young people and students who were the first group in Britain to really embrace dressing-up at Halloween, but more and more young families and children are starting to enjoy finding the perfect costume, attending Halloween parties, and trickor-treating.

While old favourites such as vampires, ghosts and witches continue to be incredibly popular choices for kids, it’s also worth bearing in mind that with a bit of creativity any fancy dress costume can be transformed for Halloween by adding some fake blood or a few well-chosen accessories.

Face paints, skin transfers or our incredibly popular Cut Kit (which

contains everything you need to create spectacularly gory effects) can be used to create scary versions of costumes you already own. A customized zombie pirate or scary clown can be really effective – and you’re guaranteed not to meet anyone else in the same outfit!

There are a dizzying array of options available for kids these days, and the sky really is the limit when it comes to what they want to dress up as. A time-saving option, which often allows for far greater choice, is to order costumes online, but remember to check delivery times to avoid a last-minute panic! Angels offers next day and Saturday delivery.

Top Tips for Planning a Halloween Party • Incorporate a spooky theme into other aspects of the party, whether it is the invitations, decorations or the food. Easily removable wall and window stickers look great, and sweets can be served in a bubbling witch’s cauldron!

• Remember to give people enough notice, and send invitations out early.

Fancy dress parties obviously require quite a bit more preparation than

other events: everyone will thank you for the extra warning.

• It’s also a good idea to have some fun accessories at the door in case someone forgets about the dress code, or hasn’t quite entered the spirit of things. Witch and wizard hats, monster masks or a vampire cape are an easy way to transform an ordinary outfit and are great fun to play with.

• If you are taking your children trick or treating, remember to plan your route, as well as making sure children are wearing something bright or reflective so that they can be seen.

• Finally, just because you’re a grown up doesn’t mean you shouldn’t dress up – not all costumes are revealing, and it will make your children’s day to see you wearing a silly costume and joining in the fun.

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

All outfits are available to buy from Angels at www.fancydress.com

More and more young families and children are starting to enjoy finding the perfect costume, attending Halloween parties, and trick-or-treating.

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book corner

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Autumn book selection for you to enjoy.

The books are all available online from Ed’s Reading Room at www. edontheweb.com

ROOM

Reading

Ed’s

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

FoR AGES 5-7 yEARS

5-7

Catch that Bat!

by Adam Frost (Bloomsbury £4.99)

Short John Silver

Ed says:

by Chris inns and Dave Woods (orchard £4.99)

Ed says: ‘The story of Short John Silver tells us what happened to this famous pirate before he grew up!

Short John Silver needs the help of Captain Poopdeck and his crew of scoundrel pirates to help him find Treasure Island and he promises they can all share the buried treasure. After their adventures sailing the Seven Seas they are eager to get their hands on their reward.

But things aren’t always what they seem!

‘This is a very funny tale on the high seas with super illustrations throughout – ideal for young readers on their own or reading together.’

‘Tom and Sophie love living on a houseboat with their parents who both work with animals.

In their latest adventure they learn a lot about nocturnal creatures that prowl and swoop while most humans are sleeping. They particularly become involved with a young bat who is in danger. Will Tom and Sophie’s moonlight vigil help to reunite the young bat with its family?

‘This is a fantastic story that gives detailed information about working with animals. It is full of zoological facts and is great fun for boys and girls alike.’

FoR AGES 7 yEARS PLuS

7+

The Thunder Omen

by Caroline Lawrence (orion £4.99)

Floridius overcome his latest dilemma?

With Floridius and the sacred chickens, Threptus’ life in Ostia is always chaotic.

‘This is an exciting mystery full of historical facts about ancient Rome that will delight young readers.’

Binny for Short

by hilary McKay (hodder £9.99)

Ed says: ‘Binny’s life has been difficult since her father died and her dog Max disappeared.

When an aunt leaves Binny’s family her house at the seaside, it is a mixed blessing.

Of course they will have fun by the sea with days full of sunshine and freedom but memories of the aunt loom large over Binny. And the memories of Max don’t quite go away. Is there any chance she will be reunited with him?

‘This is a brilliantly written story that is gripping in a gently humorous way.

As you read it you feel as if you too are on holiday by the sea.’

Ed says: ‘It is the midwinter festival of Saturnalia.

Threptus, the young apprentice of the soothsayer Floridius, is enjoying the feasting and fun.

However, along with the celebrations, pantomimes and general mayhem, disaster is threatened by the thunder omen. Will Threptus be able to help

12

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Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI awardwinning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating.

You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

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Clubs & Classes Art & craft Sport Performing arts Workshops

don n o L t s Ea s and Club ses Clas

clubs and classes In this section we feature the very best clubs and classes in East London. This Autumn there is a wealth of great clubs and classes to attend. If you would like your class to feature in this section please call 020 8202 2034.

Art & craft BARKING LEARNING CENTRE 2 Town Square, IG11 7NB 020 8724 8722 lbbd.gov.uk Kids Club Until October 27 Sunday club with drawing, music, poetry and puzzles. Free.

STEPNEY CITY FARM Stepney Way, E1 3DG Crafty Saturdays October 5, November 2 Rural Arts workshops. All ages. Free.

Pottery Open studio sessions every Saturday morning, to watch, learn and have a go. Free.

WHITECHAPEL GALLERY 77-82 Whitechapel High Street, E1 7QX ( Aldgate East) 020 7522 7888 whitechapelgallery.org Drawing Workshops Drawing classes held on Saturdays.

10-15 years. Charges apply.

Horse riding ALDERSBROOK RIDING SCHOOL Empress Avenue, E12 5HW (Manor Park ) 020 8530 4648 aldersbrookriding.co.uk Activities for Children Pony games, competitions, riding bareback, birthday parties and ‘have your own pony’ morning.

LEE VALLEY RIDING CENTRE 71 Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, E10 7QL 020 8556 2629 visitleevalleypark.org.uk Riding Centre – Customer Show September 22 Spectators welcome to watch jumping and showing classes. Free.

14

Shouldn’t you be seen in the Number 1 magazine for families and young people in East London?

Contact adverts@familieseast.co.uk.

Riding Lessons ‘Have a Go’ lessons for beginners.

Half hour sessions. 5-15 years.

Cost £13.60 or £11.

Children’s Courses 12-week beginners courses.

7+ years. Cost £180.

MUDCHUTE PARK & FARM Pier Street, Isle of Dogs, E14 3HP 020 7515 5901 mudchute.org Mudchute Equestrian Centre Horseriding lessons and pony club with all year round facilities.

7+ years.

Ice skating LEE VALLEY ICE CENTRE Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, E10 7QL visitleevalleypark.org.uk leevalleylondonskatingclub.co.uk Synchronised Skating October 21, 22 Spectators welcome. Free.

Halloween Disco Skate October 31 Come in fancy dress. Cost £6.

Children’s Courses Learn the basics of skating with six half hour group lessons, includes skate hire. 5-15 years. Cost £65.

Toddler Classes From September 6 Drop-in weekly classes with skate and skate aid hire. £10 per session.

Learning resources & tuition CENTRE OF THE CELL Blizard Institute, 4 Newark Street, Whitechapel, E1 2AT ( Whitechapel) 020 7882 2562 centreofthecell.org School Holidays Learn about the world of cells and the human body at the science education centre. Sessions open to public to book during the school holidays. Booking essential. Free family sessions.

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DAGENHAM LIBRARY 1 Church Elm Lane, Dagenham, RM10 9QS 020 8572 1553 lbbd.gov.uk Mr Bright’s Maths Club Until October 26 Weekly Maths tuition. 11-16 years.

Charges apply.

EXPLORE LEARNING Hornchurch 01708 629 620 Lakeside 01708 869 650 Romford 01708 767 819 Woodford Green 020 8090 6716 explorelearning.co.uk Maths & English Tuition Centre All abilities. Open 7 days a week and during school holidays. 5-14 years.

FLEET TUTORS 0845 644 5452 fleet-tutors.co.uk Tuition One-to-one personal tutoring in a number of subjects.

KUMON kumon.co.uk Maths & English Programmes Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham, Hackney, Havering, Newham, Redbridge and Waltham Forest.

Check individual areas on the website to locate a local tutor.

MARRIOTT ACADEMY OF ACHIEVEMENT University Square Stratford, Great Eastern Road, Stratford, E15 1BN 020 7175 1536 marriottacademy.co.uk enquiries@marriottacademy.co.uk Classes September 21 – December 14 Fun learning experience in web design, touch typing, creative writing and science. Also drama, craft and fun with food classes. 5-13 years.

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OXFORD HOUSE Derbyshire Street, Bethnal Green, E2 6HG 020 7739 9001 oxfordhouse.org.uk firstclasslearning.co.uk/bethnalgreen First Class Learning Maths & English tuition classes.

School age children.

Leisure centres & fitness clubs

BRITANNIA LEISURE CENTRE 40 Hyde Road, Hackney, N1 5JU 0845 363 1144 Climbing Wall Pebbles, Junior Rock Club and Beginners courses. 4-7 years, 7-16 years. 16+ years.

CLISSOLD LEISURE CENTRE 63 Clissold Road, Hackney, N16 9EX 020 7254 5574 better.org.uk/clissold Athletics 5-15 years. Cost from £2.50 per class.

Basket Ball 5-15 years Gymnastics 3-5 years Trampolining 5+ years WHITECHAPEL SPORTS CENTRE 55 Durward Street, Whitechapel, E1 5BA 020 7247 7538 gll.org Badminton Courses Until October 24 Fun sessions for 5-16 years.

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clubs and classes

Martial arts ShotoKAn KARAtE EnGLAnD (SKE) 01992 768664 shotokan-karate-england.co.uk Karate and self defence classes.

Free trial lesson. 6+ years.

Chingford Karate Club Peter May Sports Centre, 135 Wadham Road, E17 4HR. Forest Karate Club Forest School, College Place, E17 3PY. Walthamstow Karate Club 170 Chingford Road, E17 5AA. Wanstead Karate Club Wanstead Leisure Centre, Redbridge Lane West, E11 2JZ

Music hMDt MuSiC hmdt.org.uk info@hmdt.org.uk Saturday Programme At Hggesrston School, E2 8LS The Music Box 12 months-4 years.

Fledglings Foundation Course for reception class children.

I Can Sing Juniors & Seniors 5-16 years.

JJJA (Jazz) – School years 6+ CYMH Instrumental Programme.

5+ years.

RiCh MiX 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, LondonE1 6LA ( Liverpool Street) 020 7613 7498 richmix.org.uk grandunionyouth.org.uk the Grand union youth orchestra Monthly workshops and performances for young musicians.

Learn about world music and discover new instruments. 12+ years.

Free.

Performing arts thE AnnA FioREntini thEAtRE & FiLM SChooL Bethnal Green, Docklands, Hackney & North London 020 7682 1403 annafiorentini.com Classes Drama, singing, dance, film, set and costume design. Free taster day – limited places. Take part in Voice Idol, Drama and Stars in their Eyes with an annual Oscar night.

4-18 years.

BRADy ARtS & CoMMunity CEntRE 192-196 Hanbury Street, E1 5HU ( Whitechapel) 020 7364 7900 Workshops Council run courses in a range of activities including dance, drama, music, fashion and technology.

EASt EnD ShED 07952716181 info@eastendshed.com Children’s theatre Workshops At Marion Richardson Primary School, E1 OQF. Weekly acting, singing and dance workshops for young people in Tower Hamlets.

Everyone welcome regardless of background, disability or ability to pay. 6-11 years. youth theatre Workshops At Central Foundation Girl’s School, Harley Grove, (Lower School entrance), E3 2AT. 11-16 years.

hoXton hALL / RoSE BoWL CEntRE 130 Hoxton Street, N1 (Hoxton ) 020 7684 0060 hoxtonhall.co.uk youth Arts Free weekly activities for 7-19 years.

Dance groups, youth band and drama. ‘Get Creative’ sessions for younger participants and ‘Hipnotic’ sessions for over 14 years.

PERFoRM Barbican, Chigwell, Chingford, Epping, Hackney, Loughton, Stoke Newington, Victoria Park, Walthamstow, Wanstead and Woodford Green 0845 400 4000 perform.org.uk Fairytale Forest Autumn Term Meet characters from classic fairytales and new ones like Funky Fairy in acting, singing and dancing workshops. Free trial session.

4-8 years.

thEAtRE BuGS 0800 975 5290 theatrebugs.co.uk enquiries@theatrebugs.co.uk Classes Epping Forest. Holiday workshops.

3½-6 years.

Sports & fitness FAiRLoP outDooR ACtivity CEntRE Forest Road, Hainault, Essex 1G6 3HN 020 8500 1468 fairlop.org.uk Water Sports Sailing, windsurfing and kayaking.

Saturday classes and during school holidays. 8-16 years.

MEnD PRoGRAMME 0800 2300 263 mendcentral.org. info@mytimemend.co.uk healthy Eating Children and young people can attend family programmes to lose weight, improve fitness and become active. Free assessments and courses at local venues. Groups 2-13 years and teenage groups.

toWER hAMLEtS tEnniS LtD 020 7193 8933 towerhamletstennis.org.uk junior Community tennis Accessible, affordable and enjoyable tennis – held at King Edward’s Memorial Park, Bethnal Green Gardens, Poplar Park and Victoria Park. Hour long sessions held weekly.

Cost £2 per session.

Sport Camp October 28 – November 1 Day camps with sporting activities and games. 7-11 years. Cost £10 per day.

Swimming hACKnEy LEiSuRE CEntRES Britannia Leisure Centre, Clissold Leisure Centre, Kings Hall Leisure Centre

better.org.uk

FREE SWiMMinG Swim free for under 18’s.

Registration required.

Theatre workshops ARCoLA thEAtRE 24 Ashwin Street, Dalston, E8 3DL (Dalston Kingsland ) 020 7503 1646 arcolatheatre.com

E8 N 16

Rapunzel October 28-30 A magical drama, dance and singing adventure with the classic fairytale.

Venues yet to be confirmed. 4-8 years. Cost £93/siblings discount.

RAAW LonDon The Cabin, 186 Waltham Way, Chingford, E4 8AZ 020 8257 6477 raawlondon.com hopeful Monsters Children’s theatre September 19-December 12 Held at St Edmunds Church Hall, E4 9DS. Develop skills in acting, singing and dancing. 4-12 years.

Cost £6/£8/£10 per week.

WAnStEAD FLAtS SPoRtS CAMP Wanstead Flats, Harrow Road, E11

Football training for under 7s who are nuts about football Get your midfield dynamo enjoying super-skills, fun & exercise CRB checked & FA qualified coaches Training sessions, courses & parties across London

kiddikicks.co.uk 020 7937 7965 The fun starts from 18 months!

CALL To FIND oUT ABoUT

Franchise Opportunities

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

15

clubs and classes young People Weekly theatre classes and performances on stage. 12-25 years.

hACKnEy EMPiRE 291 Mare Street, E8 1EJ (Hackney Central) 020 8985 2424 hackneyempire.co.uk Drama Workshops Performing Arts and Media subjects after school and holiday programmes. 12-19 years. hALFMoon younG PEoPLE’S thEAtRE 43 White Horse Road, E1 OND (Stepney Green/Limehouse ) 020 7709 8900 halfmoon.org.uk Eclipse youth theatre From September 24 Theatre group for school years 4 to 6. Cost £5 per session.

Lunar From September 24 Theatre group for school years 7 to 12. Cost £5 per session.

Solar From September 25 Specialist theatre group for disabled teenagers. Cost £5 per session.

Sunbeam/Moonbeam youth theatre From September 28 Saturday sessions for school years 1 to 3. Cost £5 per session. touch tours Pre-bookable touch tours for blind and visually impaired audiences, prior to all performances.

Some shows have British Sign Language.

QuEEn’S thEAtRE hoRnChuRCh Billet Lane, Hornchurch, Essex RM11 1QT ( Hornchurch) 01708 462362 queens-theatre.co.uk jester’s Drama Club September 7-November 23 Saturday afternoon drop-in drama workshops. 7-11 years.

Cost £6.

Baby Sensory October 3 Baby development activities and play. Under 13 months. Cost £5 for baby.

Story Play October 5, November 9 Storytelling workshops based on a different story each month. 5-7 years.

Cost £5 per session.

Q youth Programme Drama clubs. Long waiting lists.

7-14 years.

Cut 2 Young performance company. Entry via annual audition. 14-19 years.

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Q Dance Weekly classes in dance styles and learn how to choreograph.

14-19 years.

StRAtFoRD CiRCuS Theatre Square, Stratford, E15 1BX ( Stratford) 0844 357 2625 stratford-circus.com new young voice Collective September 17-December 10 Exceptional singers join via recommendations. 10-18 years. Free.

Music Club September 21-November 30 Interactive and creative music workshops. Cost £7/£50 for accompanied 2-4 years. Cost £50 per term for 5-8 years. youth theatre September 21-November 30 Drama skills. 9-13 years. Cost £50 per term.

Glee Club September 25-December 2 Acting, singing and performing.

5-11 years. Cost £85 per term. toddler jam September 25 -December 4 Music and movement sessions.

1-3 years. Cost £3 drop-in.

Baby Dance Classes September 27-December 6 3 months-12 months.

Cost £5 per class.

Toddlers & babies DAGEnhAM LiBRARy 1 Church Elm Lane, Dagenham, RM10 9QS 020 8572 1553 lbbd.gov.uk Baby Massage Until October 28 Weekly sessions. Booking required.

Parents with babies 0-10 months.

Free. toddler talk Until October 28 Help your child to learn and communicate through play.

0-5 years.

Musical tots From September 16 Rhymes, games, music and puppets for parents with children 9 months4 years. Cost £4 per session.

GyMBoREE Docklands E14 9AA gymboree-uk.com docklands@gymboree-uk.com Re-opening September Early childhood development with music, art, play and gym skills. Under 5 years. jo jinGLES Brentwood, Chelmsford, Gants Hill, Hornchurch, Romford, Waltham Abbey, Woodford Bridge jojingles.com Classes Music, singing and movement.

3 months-5 years.

LittLE KiCKERS Dagenham, Hackney, Hornchurch, Romford, Stratford, Upminster, Wanstead, Woodford Green Contact 020 8958 2808 for Hackney, Wapping & Wanstead littlekickers.co.uk Classes Fun-filled pre-school football programme held throughout the year. 18 months-7 years.

( Liverpool Street) 020 7613 7498 richmix.org.uk Wiggly jigglers Creative movement sessions.

0-2 years. Cost £3.

Story Craft Workshops Monthly sessions for families to enjoy stories together. 2-5 years.

tuMBLE totS Brentwood, Chingford, Loughton, Upminster & Wanstead tumbletots.com Classes Improve physical skills using brightly coloured equipment. Under 5 years. yoGA BuGS yogabugs.com Mini Bugs & Mega Bugs Yoga inspired activities. Held at Gainsborough Children’s Centre E9 5ND. Walking – 5 years.

LittLE SuPERnovAS Bethnal Green E2 OEF Wapping E1W 3TD littlesupernovas.com Autumn term September 12 -November 28 Creative drama classes and holiday fun schools. 2-6 years.

RiCh MiX 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, London E1 6LA

DiDDi DAnCE Hackney diddidance.com Charlene 07892 711162.

Funky Pre-school Dance Classes Boost confidence with funky moves to pop songs.

FAiRKytES ARtS CEntRE 51 Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1AX ( Hornchurch) 01708 456308 havering.gov.uk mtots.co.uk

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SOUTH WOODFORD, LOUGHTON AND BUCKHURST HILL E: southwoodford@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8989 7017

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clubs and classes

After-School Activities

By Ellen Arnison

Football or ballet, drama or Brownies – how do you know what, and how much, out-of-school activity is right for your child?

Not long after your son or daughter disappears through the classroom door for the first time, the choice becomes bewildering. Their schoolbags come home stuffed with leaflets from this or that organisation promising all manner of benefits from enrolling in their classes.

You may find yourself feeling guilty if you don’t sign up to everything.

Please take a deep breath and relax.

Extra-curricular activities are not essential; many children do perfectly well without them. However, there are some benefits from a few well-chosen groups, clubs or classes.

With the best will in the world, school cannot teach all the skills you might consider essential for modern life.

Swimming lessons, for example, or cycling proficiency are crucial for safety. In addition, carefully selected activities can bring numerous other benefits that could help your child now and in the future.

They will get a huge confidence boost from participating in an enjoyable activity they are successful at. A shy child, for example, may flourish in a dance class.

As well as learning new skills, more subtle benefits include fostering a sense of community, increasing self-sufficiency and allowing a child – particularly one in a large family – something they feel is their own. Club time can also allow one-to-one time for other children.

While these advantages are very real, care must be exercised when choosing activities. Too many and the wrong ones will only leave everyone fed up and exhausted.

The easy choices are the ones your children are desperate to do. Although beware of signing up for something just because your son or daughter’s best friend is doing it, this may not be a good enough reason.

Ask yourself if your child gets something from the activity that they don’t get elsewhere and that it complements what’s already going on.

For example, an active youngster who is already in the football team might be better balancing their activities with music or drama than adding another sport.

Equally a child timid in the classroom may get great gains from being in a choir if it boosts their confidence.

A more tricky area is an activity you’d like your child to do when they’d rather spend their after-school time at home relaxing. Only you can tell if they are genuinely exhausted by a day’s education or not. However, do take their views into account as there really is no point in forcing a child into something they hate.

And some school stages are more taxing than others.

After-school activities affect the whole family. No one wants to spend all their time ferrying children from one activity to another while dinner that still needs to be prepared and other children become resentful.

So only commit to out-of-school activities that fit comfortably into the schedule and budget. It may transpire that your time and money can be better spent on family activities at home.

When you do decide on a class or club – take some time to check it out. Find out how long it has been running, do other parents recommend it, are the staff Disclosure or CRB checked?

While extra classes keep your children entertained and active, it’s also important that they have some unstructured time – even that they are allowed to feel bored.

If they bounce from one organised Venues in Ilford and more

T N E D I F N CO START

TWO IAL TR WEEK LABLE AVAI

A GIVE YOUR CHILD

020 8447 4530

www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

thing to the next, they’ll never learn the important skill of amusing themselves.

SEn activities Children with special educational needs can benefit hugely from well-chosen extra-curricular activities. Even with the best educational support, SEN children can often feel ‘less’ than their peers. They may be aware of their difficulties and differences and this can have a profound effect on their confidence.

Therefore an activity they can participate in successfully is a huge boost to their self-esteem. For example a dyslexic child, for whom school is a struggle, may blossom as a leading light in the dance troupe.

Equally there are other more educational and developmental benefits that make extra-curricular activities important. Dyspraxic youngsters, for instance, can find their co-ordination improves while doing karate or trampolining.

Clubs can be important social outlets for SEN children, perhaps giving them a chance to meet others facing similar challenges. The school or local authority will be able to advise about SEN groups in your area.

Could your child

benefit from extra maths lessons?

Find out with a 500+ FREE assessment qualified tutors from the UK’s across award-winning the UK maths tuition service.

Call 020 7193 1871 mathsdoctor.co.uk

JIGSAW WEEKEND PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOLS

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

17

clubs and classes Learn to read with Reading Eggs Reading Eggs is the award-winning online reading programme for children aged 3-13.

Children love working and playing on the computer and the Reading Eggs programme is all about bringing out the best in each child using unique worlds of interactive reading and writing activities.

Proven reading results • Over 90% of parents have noticed an improvement in their child’s reading ability since using Reading Eggs.

• The lessons content and format are based on solid scientific research.

• Has a core reading curriculum of phonics and

Turn that business idea into a reality Do you want to start a business, but need flexible hours to fit around your childcare needs? East London Small Business Centre can help you.

As the leading non-profit small business support organization in London, we have been helping new entrepreneurs in east London turn their business ideas into a reality for over 30 years.

With a specialist free business start-up programme for lone parents based in east London, we’ll help you turn your idea into

sight words supporting what children learn at school.

• Uses skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success.

• The programme is used by over 2 million children worldwide (and counting!).

• Reading Eggs has been developed by expert educators with over 20 years’ experience.

Why children love Reading Eggs • There are over 512 interactive games, motivating rewards and songs.

• It makes reading fun – children want to learn.

• The programme supplies one-on-one lessons that match your child’s ability.

• Detailed assessment reports show and recognise progress.

• Suitable for children aged 3-13.

a viable business.

We’ll give you a free and practical 4-day business training course, covering everything you need to know before starting your business.

Once you’ve completed the course, you’ll receive one-to-one business advice from an experienced business advisor who will guide you in putting your idea into practice, and help you write a business plan.

If you need funding to get your new business off the ground, you can also apply for a business start-up loan from us. To qualify for this programme, you must be receiving income support, have a child under 5 and live

From 26th August to 30th September your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

This FREE event will give your child 5 weeks FREE access* to Reading Eggs – the online reading programme that teaches children aged 3-13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success.

Sign up for your FREE trial* today and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by using Reading Eggs. Simply register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk/learn. *Free trial only available for new customers who register at www.readingeggs.co.uk/learn.

in one of the boroughs below.

• Hackney • Tower Hanlets • City of London • Newham • Waltham Forest • Havering • Redbridge • Barking & Dagenham.

For more information, contact us today and ask for Claudia. Call: 020 7 377 8821, email: parent@smallbusinesscentre.org,uk, visit: www.smallbusinesscentre.org.uk. And remember to quote: familiesmag

Exciting, Embracing, Empowering, East End Shed is for everyone!

Explore Learning An independent study into the effects of Explore Learning membership has recently been published by The University of Reading. The study tested 1,539 Explore members compared to a control group of children who did not attend Explore, and found that: ‘Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group.’

‘Building confidence, overcoming shyness to put up their hand to ask for help, being more independent and less reluctant to try without assistance were all elements that parents recognised in their children and directly attributed to Explore Learning.’

To read the full report, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

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Brand new Perform and Perform Plus Classes every Saturday!

Opening Saturday 28th September.

At: Round Chapel Old School Rooms Round Chapel, Powerscroft Road, London, E5 0PU

9.30 -11am Perform (4-8yr olds) 11.15-12.45pm Perform PLUS (8-12yr olds) Come along and join in the fun every week with our ‘Fairy Tale Forest’ and ‘Ebeneezer’ themes! To book a FREE trial lesson, call 0845 400 4000

www.familieseast.co.uk

East End Shed is a vibrant inclusive theatre company for young people in Tower Hamlets. We run weekly acting, singing and dance workshops create theatre with young people from the borough.

Everyone is welcome at East End Shed regardless of their background, disability or ability to pay. We work using an inclusive, creative process in an environment where everyone’s ideas and contributions are important.

Youth Theatre Workshops for 11-16 year olds, Mondays 6-7.30pm, Central Foundation Girl’s School, Harley Grove, (Lower School Entrance) E3 2AT. Children’s Theatre Workshops for 6-11-year-olds, Tuesdays 6-7.30pm, Marion Richardson Primary School, Senrab Street, E1 0QF. Contact us at info@eastendshed.com or call 07952 716181.

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clubs and classes Why JigsaW? a parent’s tale The competition for children’s free time is ferocious. Tennis, ballet, cookery – they can do it all and did! They tried everything, and as they discarded one activity after another, my bank balance shrank, the pile of unused equipment and clothing grew. So when daughter asked to join a Jigsaw performing arts class, I was reluctant to say the least.

Classes every week seemed like a huge commitment- for both of us, and Polly – a shy, timid 7 year old – had never shown any great desire to tread the boards – what on earth could she possibly get out of it?

Well, I was wrong. Eight years on it the best investment I ever made in my daughter’s future. Jigsaw helped her achieve so much. Apart from having a huge amount fun, the outstanding teachers helped Polly gained tremendous confidence, developed great social skills and learnt how to work in a team.

Jigsaw Arts has many schools in London and the south-east, for students aged 3-18. If you would like your child to learn performance techniques while improving their confidence and social skills, then why not sign them up?

gaynes park Gaynes Park Day Nursery is situated in a residential area of Upminster it operates from two storey house and has a warm inviting atmosphere.

All the children share access to a secure enclosed outdoor play area.

The nursery is located on Gaynes Park Road, within easy walking distance of the 370 bus route between Romford and Lakeside shopping centre.

Upminster and Upminster Bridge stations are a

maths doctor Award Winning 1:1 Maths and Physics tuition, delivered by qualified CRB/DBS-checked teachers. We teach 11+, school entry, GCSE and A-level maths and physics. Over 500 tutors are available across the UK. We always

5-minute drive away and provide a regular service to central London. The M25 junction 29 is 10 minutes’ drive from the nursery.

In addition to the children’s usual day we have external visitors who bring extracurricular activities to the children, all of which are included in the fees. Activities include Dance and Drama, French lessons and Yoga Lessons. Our preschool children are given access to computers to facilitate their learning and development. We also offer them the opportunity to go on outings to the local community to expand their experiences.

Gaynes Park Day Nursery and Preschool aims to develop effective partnerships with parents in order to enhance the learning and development of the children for whom we care. Ofsted said ‘The staff work well with parents and carers as the setting provides useful information about the nursery and services they provide. Regular newsletters are issued and parents are able to contribute their thoughts and ideas through the Parent Nursery Association.

start by giving pupils a free assessment to define their academic level and learning style to ensure we can hand-pick the correct tutor for them and their needs.

Telephone: 020 7193 1871 Email: helpdesk@mathsdoctor.co.uk Website: http://www.mathsdoctor.co.uk

Bealonians FC Looking for players:

Amazing all inclusive benefits!

Adults : Saturday Football Youth : Sunday Football

Gaynes Park Day Nursery and Preschool These include dance, drama and creative movement, French,Yoga and Freshly prepared meals cooked by an onsite chef using locally produced meat, fruit and vegetables!

For further information and to arrange a visit contact Zoe and the Gaynes Park Team on:

105 Gaynes Park Road, Upminster, RM14 2HX Tel: 01708 229420 email: gaynespark@brighthorizons.com

Ope n Mon d 7.30a ay - Frid ay m to for a ges 3 6.30pm to 5 months year s

Call Bill Blackwell on 07958 636 493 www.bealoninasfc.com

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Looking for football Young or Old, Bealonians FC could be the club for you! We are a large club with age groups from U5 to Veterans, we are currently recruiting for season 2013/14.

We have excellent facilities and provide quality coaching in a safe and fun environment for the younger players and for the senior members there is a good social side in addition to the football. If interested give us a call or for further details see our website.

CHARTER STANDARD CLUB 7/5/10 11:10:04

15:30 07/06/2010 15:34 15:28

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

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clubs and classes

SUMMER SCHOOLS

MAKE A MOVIE IN A WEEK – includes red carpet screening at a cinema PERFORM A MUSICAL IN A WEEK – includes a trip to the West End’s Mama Mia

The Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School for 4–18 years Based in North London, Hackney, Docklands and Bethnal Green, the award winning Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School for 4–18 year olds offers so much more than the average part-time drama school.

Apart from a weekly time-table of drama, film, dance and singing, all taught by leading industry professionals including casting directors, producers and TV directors, the school also offers: • Professional work via the agency.

Students have appeared in EastEnders, Rev, Top Boy, The Revolting World of Stanley Brown, the British feature Song for Marion and in the West End’s Oliver!, Lion King and Matilda, to name but a few.

• Young Ambassadors – a chance to event manage and gain valuable business skills.

• Our Performance Troupe which performs in hospitals, homes for the elderly, festivals and at community events.

• Lamda Qualifications in drama which carry UCAS points • Shows at prestigious theatres such as the Hackney Empire and the Shaw Theatre • Competitions including Voice Idol, Stars in Their Eyes and Fiorentini’s Got Talent • Annual Oscar Nights • Parents’ Forums • Master classes including stagecraft, hair & make-up, stage combat and presenting • Holiday schools

Forthcoming Events include:

Drama, Singing, Dance, Film, Set & Costume Design for ages 4–18

• Finale of Fiorentini’s Got Talent – finalists from all 4 branches perform to a celebrity judge panel

Saturdays in North London & Hackney

• Red carpet screening at the huge Genesis Cinema. Students from our part-time school and those that attend our Summer School Make a Movie in a Week, will see the films they have been producing on the big screen

Tuesdays in Bethnal Green Wednesdays in Docklands

ANNA FIORENTINI

THEATRE FILM SCHOOL

“I am so pleased I am not starting in showbiz! The talent I saw from the school was superb. May all their dreams come true!” Barbara Windsor

Contact us to book your free no obligation Taster Day. Hurry – Limited Places! www.ANNAFIORENTINI.com Tel: 020 7682 1403

Taster Days for all our branches are currently being offered.

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APPLY NOW!

DON’T JUST DREAM ABOUT THE STAGE...

BE ON IT! THE HOME OF I CAN SING! HAMPSTEAD

“ GENUINE HEROES.”

I Can Sing! Music Theatre School offers students ages 5 - 16 the opportunity to experience the excitement and fun of music theatre training, building confidence, creativity and performance skills.

THE TIMES

“ ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S EXEMPLARY ARTS EDUCATION OUTFITS.” OPERA MAGAZINE

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Photo: Clive Barda

www.hmdt.org.uk 020 8882 8825

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East London

Your Guide to East London Family Entertainment!

Places To Go Cinema

Theatre

Further Afield

Concerts

Festivals

Exhibitions

Summer Days Out

Special Events

Museums

places to go cinema • museums • exhibitions

Places To Go

Your guide to East London Family Entertainment

Welcome to our great summer guide of all the very best places to visit this summer. We hope you enjoy all your days out. To advertise in this section call 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk.

Cinema BARBICAN CENTRE Cinema 2 in Beech Street, Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS ( Barbican) 020 7638 4141 barbican.org.uk/film Framed Film Club Saturday morning film club with learning activities once a month.

Held at Cinema 2 in Beech Street.

Cost £2.

All Stars 2D (U) September 14 Ethan and Jaden set up a talent contest to raise money for their youth centre.

Sherlock Hound (U) September 21 Sherlock Holmes stories retold with canine characters.

A Danger Mouse Mix (U) September 28 See the world’s greatest secret agent in a selection of episodes.

GENESIS CINEMA 93-95 Mile End Road, Whitechapel, E1 4UJ ( Stepney Green) 020 7780 2000 genesiscinema.co.uk Genesis Kids Special films for children every Saturday and Sunday mornings.

Cost £2.

The Big Scream Parent and baby screenings every Wednesday at 11am. Space available for buggies and prams.

HACKNEY PICTUREHOUSE 270 Mare Street, E8 1HE 0871 902 5734 ( Hackney Central) picturehouses.co.uk/hackney Big Scream Parent and baby screenings.

Kids’ Club Saturdays Family matinees, activities and competitions. Cost £1/members,

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£3/non-members. Annual membership £4.

Toddler Time Introduce children to the big screen.

Half hour shows for pre-school children and parents. Cost £3 per child/adult free.

Autism-Friendly Screenings Special screenings for people on the autism spectrum. Reduced volume and lighter auditorium. Cost £3.

RIO CINEMA 107 Kingsland High Street, E8 6LJ (Dalston Kingsland ) 020 7241 9410 riocinema.org.uk Picture Club Every Saturday morning.

Membership cards stamped for free admittance after every ten visits.

Cost £2.50 for child, £3.50 for accompanying adults.

Parents & Babies Club Every Tuesday afternoon for parents with babies under one year. Push chair space and lighter auditorium.

Cost £7.50.

VUE WESTFIELD STRATFORD CITY 2 Stratford Place, Stratford, E20 1EJ ( Stratford) 08712 240 240 myvue.com Kids AM Special screenings for children every Saturday at 10am.

RICH MIX CINEMA & ARTS CENTRE 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6LA ( Liverpool Street) 020 7613 7498 richmix.org.uk Kids’ Cine Time Saturday and Sunday morning screenings for children.

Autism-Friendly Kids’ Cine Time Special monthly screenings for those on the autism spectrum with lower volume and raised lighting to create a calm environment.

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Museums & Exhibitions BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM Bartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH ( Bank) 020 7601 5545 bankofengland.co.uk Open House London Weekend September 21, 22 Free guided tours.

The Big Draw – Designs on your money October 28-November 1 Design a bank note, enter a competition and listen to a talk. Free.

Lord Mayor’s Show November 9 Face painting based on ‘The Wind in the Willows’ characters.

BRITISH MUSEUM Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG ( Tottenham Ct Road) 020 7323 8000 britishmuseum.org Free entry to the museum.

Half Term Workshops October 26-November 1 Trails, digital workshops and drop-in events. Visit the family help desk on the day of arrival. Free.

DISCOVER CHILDREN’S STORY CENTRE 383-387 High Street, Stratford, E15 4QZ ( Stratford) 020 8536 5555 discover.org.uk Museum closed from 9-20 September. Entrance £5/family £18/under 2s free. Book in advance for all events.

Journey to Space September 21 onwards An interactive family exhibition with a variety of activities to encourage creativity and play. 0-11 years. Timed visits and tickets allocated on first come first served basis. Admission

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cost £5/family £18/under 2s free.

Winnie in Space September 21, 22 Story builder adventure. 3+ years. Book in advance.

Welcome to your Awesome Robot with Flying Eye Books September 28 Craft workshop to create a robot. Book in advance. Accompanied 4-8 years.

Do you Speak English Moon?

September 28 Author and illustrator event with Francesca Simon and Ben Cort to launch a new picture book. Dress in favourite pyjamas ready for a bedtime story.

Here Come the Aliens September 28, 29 Rhyming tales. Book in advance.

2-4 years.

Toys in Space September 28, 29 When the toys are left outside by accident they see stars for the first time.

4+ years.

Discover’s 10th Birthday Celebration Weekend October 5 Birthday bash with games and surprises.

Free.

Tomorrow’s World – The Big Draw October 26 Arena Illustration’s drawing activities for all ages.

October Half-Term October 28-November 1 Author event with Tor Freeman on October 29. Author event with Tracey Corderoy and spooky Halloween surprises on October 31.

Things you Never Knew about Dinosaurs November 9 Author event and book signing with Giles Paley-Phillips and Liz Pichon.

4+ years.

GEFFRYE MUSEUM Kingsland Road, E2 8EA ( Old Street) 020 7739 9893 geffrye-museum.org.uk

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museums • exhibitions • theatres • concerts places to go Free activities for children under 16 years. Tickets allocated on the day on a first-come, first served basis.

Marvelous Magnets September 21 Create ceramic-inspired magnets.

2-4pm. Free.

Tea Party Headdresses September 22 Use various materials to create a party headdress. 2-4pm. Free.

Under 5s Free craft and storytelling activities.

Have a pretend tea party with a picnic hamper. 2-5 years.

October Half-Term Activities Holiday workshops on selected dates. 5-16 years. Free.

Young People Holiday workshops and creative taster sessions. Book in advance.

11+ years. Free.

HACKNEY MUSEUM Technology & Learning Centre, 1 Reading Lane, E8 1GQ ( Hackney Central) 020 8356 3500 hackney.gov.uk/museum Holiday Activities Free entry to the museum to view current exhibitions and take part in family activities on selected dates.

HAVERING MUSEUM 19-21 High Street, Romford, RM1 1JU (Romford ) 01708 766 571 haveringmuseum.org.uk History & Archaeology Club September 14, 28 12-16 years. Cost £25 for 10 sessions.

Havering Hedgehogs From September 14 Term time Saturday club with events and activities. Accompanied 4-11 years. Annual cost £10/trial session £2.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM Lambeth Road, SE1 6HZ ( Waterloo) 020 7416 5000 iwm.org.uk Horrible Histories: Spies Test undercover skills with disguises and codes. Cost £6.20/£3.30/family £12.25-£19/free for 3 years and under.

Martin Brown Draws Horrible Histories October 19, 20 Jokes, stories and live drawings. Book signing. Cost £8 + admission extra.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Covent Garden Piazza, WC2E 7BB ( Covent Garden) 020 7565 7299 ltmuseum.co.uk Annual admission £15/free entry for children under 16 years.

Storytime October 28-November 1 Stories about the ordinary and famous people who made the underground move. 3-7 years.

Make & Take October 28-November 1 Create felt finger puppets of London Transport’s most important people.

4-12 years.

Poster Art 150 Until October 27 Poster exhibition.

MUSEUM OF LONDON 150 London Wall, EC2Y 5HN ( St Paul’s) 020 7001 9844 museumoflondon.org.uk Museum Explored September 15, 22, 29 October 6, 13, 20, 27 November 10 Explore the galleries with fun handson activities. 5+ years.

A Royal Arrival Current exhibition to celebrate royal births past and present with objects belonging to many royal infants. Free.

Holiday Events Free activities for all ages during the school holidays.

MUSEUM OF LONDONDOCKLANDS West India Quay, E14 4AL (DLR West India Quay) 020 7001 9844 museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands Sea Monsters October 26, November 1 Art and craft drop-in sessions. Free.

Under 5s Babies and toddler groups, storytime sessions and music and movement.

Some ticketed events. Free.

Holiday Events Free activities for all ages during the school holidays.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD ( South Kensington) 020 7942 5000 nhm.ac.uk Free entry to the museum.

Permanent Exhbitions The Vault – Gems, crystals and metals from around the world.

Dinosaurs – Explore the gallery and come fact to face with dinosaurs!

Investigate Centre Examine real natural history specimens.

ROYAL MUSEUMS GREENWICH SE10 9NF (DLR Cutty Sark) 020 8858 4422 rmg.co.uk Free admission to The National Maritime Museum and Queens House. Charges apply for entry

to Cutty Sark, Planetarium and Royal Observatory.

Planetarium Shows – Sky Tonight Live September & October Live show on what can be seen in the night sky. 5+ years. Cost £6.50/£4.50.

Space Safari September & October Royal Observatory. Join Ted the teddy bear, for live music and rhyme.

7 years and under. Admission £6.50/£4.50.

Spooktacular Family Day October 31 At the Queen’s House. Ghostly activities, scary entertainment and costume prizes. Cost £12/family £40/under 3s free.

THE RAGGED SCHOOL MUSEUM 46-50 Copperfield Road, E3 4RR ( Mile End) 020 8980 6405 raggedschoolmuseum.org.uk Open House October 6, November 3 Attend a lesson in the Victorian classroom and engage in historical roleplay. Led by actors in costume.

Book a place on arrival. Cost £2 (free entry to museum) Family Days Family activities during school holidays.

VALENCE HOUSE MUSEUM Becontree Avenue, Dagenham, RM8 3HT ( Becontree) 020 8227 2034 lbbd.gov.uk/museum Open Valence September 21, 22 Tours and an ‘I-spy activity. Part of the Open House London events.

Free entry.

Edward Pond Until September 21 Exhibition of art works from the museum collection by this famous local artist.

Second – Hand Book Sale September 21, 22 Harvest Festival Fun September 28 Help in the ‘Dig for Victory’ garden or bring produce to add to the display.

Local & Family History Fair September 28 Stalls, talks and activities.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road, E2 9PA ( Bethnal Green) 020 8983 5200 museumofchildhood.org.uk Romp and Roll September 7, 14, 28, October 5, 12, 19.

Playful dance sessions led by Adrenalin Dance. 2-5 years.

Pay on the day. Cost £3 per child.

Montessori for Families October 26 Teaching techniques to use at home to help your child’s learning.

Practical workshop led by Montessori educators. Drop-in sessions.

October Half Term Activities October 28-November 1 Superheroes can test their powers, create a mask or try on costumes at the Superhero Skills Station.

Drop-in events.

WILLIAM MORRIS GALLERY Lloyd Park, Forest Road, E17 4PP (Walthamstow Central ) 020 8496 4390 wmgallery.org.uk The Art of Embroidery Until September 22 Work by Nicola Jarvis and archive material from William Morris’s daughter, May Morris. Open Wednesday – Sunday. Free.

Family Days September 28, October 26 Themed art and craft activities.

1-4pm. Free.

Gallery Activities Hands-on activity points around the gallery. Take part in art, craft and story telling sessions. Free.

Creative Kids Monthly activity sessions. 0-5 years.

Free.

Theatres & Concerts BARBICAN CENTRE Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS ( Barbican) 020 7638 4141 barbican.org.uk The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean October 29-31, November 2-5 Who is Josephine Bean? Foyer activities before each performance.

7+ years. Cost £8.50.

BROADWAY THEATRE Broadway, Barking, IG11 7LS ( Barking) 020 8507 5607 thebroadwaybarking.com The Elves and the Shoemaker September 22 Two tiny visitors help Sam in his workshop. Cost £8/£6/family (4) £24.

Bananas in Pyjamas October 6 Audience participation and lots of fun. Cost £12/£10/family(4) £40.

Halloween Spooktacular Puppets October 27 Spooky songs and comedy and meet the characters during the interval. All ages. Cost £10/£8/family(4) £33.

Pinocchio November 3 Live music, puppets and storytelling.

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places to go theatres • concerts • nct • special events 4+ years. Cost £8/£6/family(4) £24.

The Nutcracker November 9 Russian Ballet group. Cost £20.

CHATS PALACE 42-44 Brooksby’s Walk, E9 6DF ( Homerton) 020 8533 0227 chatspalace.co.uk In the Deep Dark Wood October 5 A girl bravely ventures into a dark and mysterious wood. 5-8 years.

Cost £5.

Deep in the Woods October 5 Similar story as above but less scary!

2-5 years. Cost £5.

KENNETH MORE THEATRE Oakfield Road, Ilford, Essex, IG1 1BT ( Redbridge or Ilford ) 020 8553 4466 kmtheatre.co.uk The Elephant Bridesmaid September 28 Nessie the elephant looks for a fancy outfit. Wear fancy clothes to the show and take part in a fashion show. Cost £10/£8.

Sita’s Story October 14, 15 An Indian saga with the monkey king and the terrifying ten-headed demon. Cost £8/£6/£10 with workshops.

Shakespeare Schools Festival October 16-18 Half hour productions of different Shakespeare plays from participating schools.

HALFMOON YOUNG PEOPLE’S THEATRE 43 White Horse Road, E1 OND (Stepney Green/Limehouse ) 020 7709 8900 halfmoon.org.uk Big Red Bath September 19, 20 Bubbly, barmy bath time adventure.

2-5 years. Cost £6.

You’re Not My Friend Anymore!

September 28 Can it ever work having two best friends? 3-7 years. Cost £6.

Arthur’s Dream Boat October 5 No one is interested in Arthur’s dream. 2-6 years. Cost £6.

The Grumpiest Boy in the World October 12 Zachary is fed up with being average and wants to discover what makes him special. 4-11 years. Cost £6.

Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails October 19 Puppets, props and music. Meet the characters after the show. 3+ years.

Cost £6.

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Statik October 26 Clowning and chaos. 5-11 years.

Cost £6.

QUEEN’S THEATRE HORNCHURCH Billet Lane, Hornchurch, Essex RM11 1QT ( Hornchurch) 01708 462362 queens-theatre.co.uk Mr Popcorn’s Fun-Time Show October 5 Fun, games and balloon modelling.

2-6 years. Cost £5.

Mr Zippy’s Marvellous Magical Menagerie November 9 Loveable animal puppets. 3-10 years.

Cost £5.

RICH MIX ARTS CENTRE 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6LA ( Liverpool Street) 020 7613 7498 richmix.org.uk Mwalimu Express September 15, October 20 Monthly event featuring a live artist and a film from an African country.

Family friendly. Free.

The Poetry Joe Show September 22 Interactive family show with shadow puppets, overhead projector and live poetry. 3+ years. Cost £6/£5 for Tower Hamlets residents.

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE Covent Garden, WC2E 9DD ( Covent Garden) 020 7304 4000 roh.org.uk Welcome Performances for Families Special family matinees for those entirely new to opera and ballet.

Register online. 7+ years. Cost £5-£20.

STRATFORD CIRCUS Theatre Square, Stratford, E15 1BX ( Stratford) 0844 357 2625 stratford-circus.com Tube September 17-21 The wonders of the tube. 6 months2 years. Cost £6-£8.

The Feather Catcher October 5 Freda and Greta are on a feather catching quest. Bookable after performance workshops. Cost £6-£8.

Workshops £2.

Centrally Heated Knickers October 12 The weird and wonderful world of science with lovable author Michael Rosen – live on stage and accompanied by the Homemade Orchestra. Special performances for schools on other dates in October.

7+ years. Cost £7.50-£10.

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Pinocchio October 26 Follow the adventures of Pinocchio and his grasshopper friend. A new version of a classic tale by Michael Rosen. Cost £6-£8.

Sid’s Show November 9 Join Sid from Cbeebies live with interactive games, songs and magic.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt & Mr & Mrs Moon December 7-January 5 Early booking for two shows to delight audiences over the Christmas period. 2-5 years. Tickets now on sale. Cost £10/family £30. £12 to see both shows.

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, SE1 2HZ ( London Bridge) 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com Othello: The Remix September 12-29 A tale of betrayal and jealousy.

13+ years. Cost £16/£10.

Dora September 13-November 17 Dora stores everything she finds.

4+ years. Cost £16/£10.

Sensacional September 21, 22, 28, 29 October 13, 15, 16, November 12, 13, 14 Interactive sessions for toddlers. 18 months – 4 years. Cost £10 admits one child + 2 adults.

Luna October 5-November 3 Luna is lonely in the sky and wants to meet new friends. 2+ years.

Cost £16/£10.

Henry the Fifth October 8-November 16 Based on Shakespeare’s play.

8+ years. Cost £16/£10.

Nosferatu October 31-November 2 A supernatural story for Halloween.

8+ years. Spooky pre-show activities and a Halloween party on 31st.

Cost £16/£10.

NCT – East London HACKNEY BRANCH nct.org.uk/branches/hackney Nearly New Sale October 5 2pm St Paul’s Church West Hackney, Newington Road, N16 7UY. Secondhand baby and children’s clothes, toys, books and nursery equipment. £2/£3 per family – suggested donation to help raise funds.

HAVERING BRANCH nct.org.uk/branches/havering Buggy Walks September 18, October 2, 16

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November 6 At Thames Chase Forest Centre at 10.30am.

Cheeky Monkey Tea Party September 21 At Romford Baptist Church Hall.

Nearly New Sale October 12 Thames Chase. Clothes, toys and equipment.

REDBRIDGE & DISTRICT BRANCH nct.org.uk/branches/Redbridge Nearly New Sale October 12 Christ Church Hall, Wanstead Place, E11 2SW. Pick up bargains for babies and children. Admission £1 at 10.45am. Non-members welcome.

Push chairs and prams are not allowed in the hall due to space.

Café open.

Bumps and Babies For information email Karyna on nct_redbridge_parents@yahoo.co.uk

TOWER HAMLETS BRANCH nct.org.uk/branches/tower-hamlets Parents-to-be Evenings September 17, October 15 Meet in Canary Wharf.

Homebirth Support Group September 26, October 31 Baby First Aid October 5, November 2 At The Barkantine, Westferry Road.

Bookable in advance.

Nearly New Sale October 19 Swanlea School, E2. 11am-1pm.

Mum’s Night Out Held on the third Thursday of each month contact carolinepostle@ gmail.com

Special Events BLACK HISTORY MONTH October Events taking place throughout the month of October at various local libraries and venues to celebrate Black cultural heritage.

EPPING FOREST Visitor Centre, High Beach, IG10 4AE (M25/J26 – Epping or Wanstead) 020 8508 0028 020 7332 1911 (The View) cityoflondon.gov.uk/epping Open House Extra September 21, 22 At Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, the View and The Temple. Tours and activities. Free.

Apple Day October 13 Wanstead Nature Club October 19 At Harrow Road Pavilion.

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special events • further afield places to go The Big Draw October 20 At The View, Chingford, E4 7QH. Family drawing activities with advice from artists.

Wanstead Flats Sports Camp October 28 -November 1 Day camp with sporting activities and games. 7-11 years. Booking required. Cost £10 per day.

Pumpkin Carving October 31 At The View. Bring or buy a pumpkin to carve.

Gunpowder Plot November 1 At Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge.

Family activities. Free.

FIREWORKS DISPLAY towerhamletsarts.org.uk lbbd.gov.uk November Some local councils and scouts associations organise community displays with funfairs, activities and music. Dates and venue information on websites. Charges apply.

HMS BELFAST The Queen’s Walk, SE1 2JH ( London Bridge) 020 7940 6300 iwm.org.uk/hmsbelfast Tattoo T-Shirts October 26-November 3 Learn about different tattoos worn by people in the navy and design a shape onto a t-shirt. Part of the Big Draw festival. Entry £13.15/under 16 years free.

LORD MAYOR’S SHOW lordmayorsshow.org November 9 A colourful procession through the streets of London with entertainment and a fireworks display at 5pm.

LEE VALLEY 08456 770 600 visitleevalleypark.org.uk Countryside Live September 28, 29 Leyton Marsh, Lea Bridge Road, E10 7QL. Wildlife and countryside activities, displays, workshops and natural arts and crafts. Cost 2 days £6/£4 one day/child free.

Spook-tacular October 26-November 3 Lee Valley Park Farms Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF. Pumpkin carving, story telling and magical crafts. Entry charges apply.

Halloween Fantasy Adventure October 26 Waterworks Centre, Lammas Road, E10 7QB. Meet strange and wonderful characters. Booking required on 020 8988 7566.

6-10 years. Cost £3.50.

Family Conservation Day October 27

Starting at Lee Valley Ice Centre.

Booking required. 020 8988 7566.

Free.

OLD MACDONALD’S FARM Weald Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 5AY (M25/J8) 01277 375 177 omdfarm.co.uk Grandparent’s Day October 5, 6 Half price for grandparents.

Grandchildren can enjoy Indoor soft play, outdoor activities and friendly farm animals. Normal charges £13.50/£12.50/under 2s free. Online discounts and family tickets.

Half Term Halloween Festival October 26-November 3 Ghost hunt, craft activities, pumpkin carving and story telling. Meet and greet Scooby-Doo on a selected date.

OPEN HOUSE LONDON openhouselondon.org.uk September 21, 22 Free public access to buildings of architectural and community interest.

Pick up local guides on places to visit.

Eastbury Manor House September 21, 22 Eastbury Square, Barking IG11 9SN. Free opening as part of the Open House weekend.

Leytonstone Library September 21 6 Church Lane, E11 1HG Talks and tours of the library. Free.

House Mill visitleevalley.org.uk housemill.org.uk September 21, 22 Three Mills House Mill, Three Mill Lane, Bromley-by-Bow, E3 3DU. Guided tours. Free.

Valence House Museum lbbd.gov.uk/museum September 21, 22 Tours and an ‘I-spy activity. Free.

RSPB RAINHAM MARSHES New Tank Hill Road, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ (Purfleet ) 01708 899840 rspb.org.uk Wildlife Explorers Club September 28, October 26 Activities, games and walks.

8-12 years. Cost £2.50.

Halloween Trail October 28-November 3 Pick up a spooky trail from reception and explore the reserve to discover the mystery. Free.

SUTTON HOUSE NATIONAL TRUST 2 & 4 Homerton High St, Hackney E9 6JQ ( Bethnal Green) 020 8986 2264 nationaltrust.org.uk

Time Travellers September 29 Family day with arts, crafts and costumes. Free.

Incredibles in Autumn From October 5 Pumpkin displays and wicker sculptures. Entrance £16/children 16 and under free.

VALENTINES MANSION & GARDENS Emerson Road, Ilford, Essex, IG1 4XA ( Gants Hill) 020 8708 8100 valentinesmansion.com

Rose Garden Tea Party Until November 3 Hands-on activities to investigate different themes with edible plants.

Open Studios September 22 Visit the top floor of the mansion and meet local artists. Free entry.

Wedding Fair September 29 Family Activities Trails, book corner, mini kitchen range, dressing up box and school holiday events.

Further Afield BENJAMIN FRANKLIN HOUSE 36 Craven Street, WC2N 5NF ( Charing Cross) 020 7925 1405 (booking) benjaminfranklinhouse.org Toy Workshop October 29 Discover how Georgian children entertained themselves. Booking required. 5-11 years. Cost £5 per child.

GREENWICH THEATRE Crooms Hill, SE10 8ES ( Greenwich/Cutty Sark/also Riverboat services) 020 8858 4447 greenwichtheatre.org.uk We’re Going on a Bear Hunt October 30 -November 3 Stage production with puppets from Little Angel Theatre. 2+ years. Cost £12.50/£7.50/family £35.

HORNIMAN MUSEUM & GARDENS 100 London Road, SE23 3PQ (Forest Hill ) 020 8699 1872 horniman.ac.uk Amazon Adventure Exhibition Until November 24 Take a trip along the Amazon and meet exotic creatures. Cost £8/£3/ family £15/under 3s free/annual tickets available.

African Drumming September 22 -November 24 Learn to play on an African drum and take part in a concert. Sunday sessions for 5-10 years. Cost £25 for 10 sessions.

KEW GARDENS Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB ( Kew Gardens) 020 8332 5655 kew.org

Global Kitchen Until November 3 Familiar and some obscure edible plants from all over the world.

ZSL LONDON ZOO Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY ( Regent’s Park) zsl.org Entrance from £21.50/£16 under-3s free.

Tiger Territory Come up close to endangered Sumatran tigers.

Seahorses New environment for breeding and for visitors to watch the babies emerge.

New Terrace Restaurant Overlooking the Zoo.

Rich Mix Rich Mix: a fun, affordable family haven in the heart of East London. Sitting at the top of Brick Lane, moments from Shoreditch High Street, Rich Mix is a three-screen cinema and multi-arts venue that has always put families at the heart of its activities. A fully parent-and-child-friendly space, weekends, daytimes and evenings at Rich Mix always feature family events, all at affordable prices and many of them completely free. Highlights coming up this autumn include a visit from CBeebies PoetryJoe on Sunday September 22nd and a spectacular children’s retelling of ‘Sita’s Story’ from Indian epic The Ramayana on Saturday October 26th.

For young film fans, Kids’ CineTime (Saturdays and Sundays at 12pm) must be one of London’s cheapest cinema tickets: only £1.75 per person, children and adults. September’s films include the recent animated hit, Despicable Me 2.

For more information on all of Rich Mix’s events, see www.richmix.org.uk.

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

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places to go news

The Baby Show the Baby Show, the uK’s Biggest Pregnancy and Parenting Event, returns to London olympia from 25-27 october 2013 The Baby Show, the UK’s number one pregnancy and parenting event returns to its birthplace, London Olympia, from 25 to 27 October 2013.

A haven for all expectant mums and dads and parents of young children, the show, now in its twelfth year, continues to be the nation’s most exciting and informative family experience!

Over 300 trusted brands and 200 specialist exhibitors will showcase top of the line infant essentials alongside new and innovative baby products as well as trendy clothing for babies, toddlers, mums and mums to be. Visitors attending The Baby Show will also have access to exclusive offers and fantastic savings that can’t be found on the high street.

At the show, experts in all things baby-related, from leading child specialists and authors to recognisable faces from TV, will be on hand to offer tips and insight across a wide variety of pregnancy and child development topics.

Along with providing invaluable advice, they’ll be discussing techniques to help reassure and guide parents through the early years of parenting.

• P rofessor Robert Winston – The much loved professor, medical doctor and BBC presenter

transport museum events London Transport Museum, 39 Wellington Street, Covent Garden WC2E 7BB, 020 7379 6433, www.ltmuseum.co.uk From buses to tubes, original posters to workers and travellers’ stories, London Transport Museum explores the heritage of London and its transport system. Open 10am-6pm Saturdays to Thursdays, from 11am Fridays.

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will be providing tips and advice on baby development.

Clare Byam-Cook – Retired nurse, midwife and breastfeeding expert, Clare will speak on breastfeeding, how it works and what to do if it goes wrong.

Jo Tantum – Baby sleep expert, best known for her ability to get any baby sleeping 12 hours through the night, will share her sleepytime secrets.

Annabel Karmel –The leading baby nutritionist and best-selling author will discuss nutrition during pregnancy and the myths and truths of feeding.

The Natal Company – New to the 2013 team of specialists, the antenatal experts will cover everything from practical baby care to colic and calming.

Back again for 2013 is the Baby Show Stage with MadeforMums.com. Throughout the weekend, visitors will enjoy a full schedule of infant and maternity fashion shows presenting the latest and most on-trend styles for babies, toddlers and mums-to-be and twice daily, leading toy maker, Fisher-Price will be giving away a selection of prizes.

As well as providing a superb shopping and learning experience, The Baby Show is a safe haven for all parents and parents-to-be who’ll be invited to use:

Admission free for under 16s; under 12s to be accompanied.

All Aboard! Let your under-6 ‘drive’ a scaled-down bus, train, tube or taxi, complete with passengers. They can also take control of the transport system, moving buses and trains around the museum’s miniature London.

Family Station. Pick up a free coin bag and choose some activities to do as you explore the Museum. Whether you fold your own bus and

• T he tommee tippee feeding area providing mums with a private breastfeeding area, equipped with microwaves, bottle warmers and an abundance of bibs and spoons for all feeding needs. Complimentary baby food will also be provided courtesy of Plum Baby.

• Fisher-Price Mums-to-be Pampering Area offering mums-to-be and new mums the opportunity to put their feet up and enjoy a bit of ‘me-time’ with expert masseurs providing free ten minute massage sessions • The area just for dads and new for 2013, Fisher-Price’s ‘Something for Dads’ stand offers the opportunity to try out the Fisher-Price Giant Bouncer and experience life from a baby’s perspective NB: New features, celebrity experts and exclusive product launches will be announced as confirmed.

For further information please visit www. thebabyshow.co.uk. For chance to win a pair of tickets please go to www.familieseast.co.uk/ competitions to enter. Good luck!

drive it between the vehicles, design your own poster-postcards or take photos through flickr frames, there is something here for families with children of all ages.

Look for Longer, until December 2013. Enjoy playing a cryptic Underground game in the galleries where you try to find the 75 London Underground and DLR stations hidden within interactive graphics. You can also play at home at www.lookforlonger.com.

Family Highlights: September-October Sun 22 Sept: The PoetryJoe Show 11am and 2pm / £6, £5 Tower Hamlets residents Enter the CBeebies star’s peculiar world!

Sun 22 Sept: Romeo and Juliet 2.30pm and 7.30pm / £10, £8 concessions Family friendly, with a Bengali twist on Shakespeare

35-47 Bethnal Green Rd London E1 6LA

Sat 26 Oct: Sita’s Story 11am and 2pm / £6, £5 Tower Hamlets residents The Indian epic brought to life for ages 5-11 Every Sat and Sun: Kids’ Cine Time - family films for only £1.75

The PoetryJoe Show

For details of these and many more events: www.richmix.org.uk / 020 7613 7498

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2 mins walk from Shoreditch High Street (Overground) Box Office: 020 7613 7498

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news places to go

spook-tacular goings on at the farms Head down to Lee Valley Park Farms to celebrate Halloween and enjoy a wonderful and wizardry experience.

There will be with pumpkin carving, story telling and magical crafts to try out as well as all the animals to meet.

Lee Valley Park Farms host a number of events throughout the year and always provides a great day out for the family with

stratford circus Stratford Circus continues its remarkable new season of work in providing excellent theatre for children by inviting two of London’s most acclaimed theatre companies to perform their amazing new work as part of Stratford Circus’s busy holiday period.

Little Angel Theatre’s We’re

lots of fun activities for all ages to enjoy. There are hundreds of animals to meet, feed, handle and make friends with including sheep, husky dogs, reindeer, pygmy goats, giant rabbits, rare breed pigs, long-necked llamas and a loveable meerkat family.

There’s also a toboggan run, indoor and outdoor play areas as well as the Orchard Café serving freshly prepared food.

For more information on events at Lee Valley Park Farms go to visitleevalley.org.uk or call 01992 892 781.

Going On A Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen and Oily Cart’s brand new show Mr And Mrs Moon by Tim Webb will delight audiences between 7th December 2013 and 5th January 2014. Both pieces of work are aimed at 2-5-year-olds and both can readily be enjoyed by the whole family.

Tickets now on sale 0844 357 2625/www.stratford-circus.com.

Open everyday 10:00 - 17:00

. .. le b b u b le b b u s H e Valley Park Farm Le at es m ti ky spoo Join Petunia from 26 October to 3 November for a special half term week of wizardry wonder. Pumpkin carving, story telling and magical crafts.

M25 (J26) north of Waltham Abbey

Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 2EF

Start your adventure at visitleevalley.org.uk 01992 892 781 l

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

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