Families North London Issue 104 Sept/Oct 2013

North London

Autumn issue PLUS North London Clubs and Classes

Back to school Annabel Karmel Halloween

Issue 104 Sept/Oct 2013

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NEW 4-7 yrs Ballet Troop Starting September

15/08/2013 08:15

Contents Issue 104 | Sept / Oct 2013 | Families North London

This Issue

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8

27

8 Back to School 22 Special Needs 27 Annabel Karmel

Regular Features 4 Health & Happiness 28 Ed’s Reading Room

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58

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29 Clubs & Classes 46 Parties 49 Places to go

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

Welcome

Now that summer is over and the holidays are finished we look forward to a fun-filled autumn season. In our Back To School issue we have covered a wide range of topics which we hope will help and guide you through the term ahead. For added after-school inspiration check out our Clubs & Classes guide for the best activities in North London. Remember to keep up-to-date! Log on to www.famiiesnorth.co.uk. See you in November.

Sharon Editor

Families North London Ltd cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, details are subject to change and Families North 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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3

health & happiness

Tips to wean your baby off top-ups Topping-up is not always ideal and it may not be your first choice, but there are times when it is necessary to ensure that your baby gets enough milk and as a mum, you need to feel confident that your baby’s needs are met.

Many mums who supplement breast feeds with top-ups, are able to get back to exclusive breastfeeding and I’m sure that you can too.

If your baby is dependent on topups, consider whether this is because you aren’t producing enough milk or whether it is because your baby is not an effective feeder. Once you identify the root of the problem, you will be amazed at how many different ways there are of correcting the problem.

It is worth remembering that breast milk is produced on demand, so that more your baby breastfeeds, the more you will produce. Check your baby is well positioned, that he does not have a tongue-tie or cranial tightness and boost your milk supply if necessary.

If you are doing or have done all these but are still a little stuck, then this article is for you as there are a few more tips to help you get the best from breastfeeding and baby off the bottle.

MoNitor your BaBy’s WeeKLy WeiGht-GaiN This is a great place to start as you can quickly determine whether you are ready to start weaning baby off top-ups. In the first couple of months, we generally like to see that your baby gains roughly 210g per week.

Thereafter your baby will gain 90g – 150g per week until he doubles his birth weight by 6 months. If your baby is currently gaining a lot more than that, you can safely start reducing the amount of milk you give him after each feed. Continue to monitor his weightgain so that you feel confident that he is getting enough milk. eNaBLe your BaBy to aCCesses Breast MiLK With MiNiMaL eFFort.

This is especially important for little or young babies, or even babies who aren’t gaining weight as quickly as you would like them too. When your baby expends too much energy during the feed, he will get tired and prefer to wait for his bottle feed. Monitor your baby’s suck:swallow ratio. If your baby is

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doing lots of suck before he swallows, you know that he is working hard for his milk. Breast compression will push the milk into baby’s mouth, so that all he has to do is swallow. Simply place a flat hand on you breast and push inwards, so that you flatten the breast against your rib cage to create a manual flush of milk and deliver it right into baby’s mouth. Not only will this make your feeds more effective, but baby will feel full quicker and you should find that milk top-ups aren’t always necessary. oFFer BaBy the saMe aMouNt oF toP-uP at eaCh Feed It is always easier to get a clearer idea of what baby is getting from the breast when you consistently give baby the same amount of milk after each feed.

You may start with 60ml as a top-up after each feed. If you find that your baby is hungry soon after the feed, offer baby the breast first as this will increase your supply. Continue to monitor baby’s weekly weight-gain and if he is gaining more than he should be, reduce his top-up by 10ml-20ml each week. oFFer BaBy a toP-uP WheN he Needs it Remember that your milk supply is highest in the morning and lowest in the afternoon. Often babies are able to get everything they need at the morning feed but need a top-up in the afternoon. Baring this in mind, you can try to offer baby the breast more frequently in the morning, so that you don’t have to top baby up and save the top-ups for the afternoon, when your milk supply is highest.

both breasts, using breast compression throughout and then offer baby the expressed breast milk. If your baby is still hungry you can offer your baby a little formula. The more frequently you are able to express before a feed, the better your breasts will be drained and the quicker your milk supply will increase, resulting in less need for top-ups.

Every drop of breast milk that your baby receives is packed with countless health benefits and it is important that you know you are doing the very best for your baby. If you find that you aren’t able to drop baby’s top-ups, enjoy the breast feeds that you and baby share as they will still be incredibly worthwhile and special.

Geraldine Miskin Author and founder of the Miskin method www.breastfeedingexperience.com

Once you identify the root of the problem, you will be amazed at how many different ways there are of correcting the problem.

eXPress Both Breasts BeFore your BaBy BreastFeeds This will work if your baby is a strong feeder but somehow doesn’t drain the breast effectively and still relies on his top-ups. Express both breasts just prior to breastfeeding and keep this to offer baby as a top-up at the end of the feed. Breastfeed from

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health & happiness autogenic therapy Stress is the body’s response to the demands of life. But more and more of us are leading extremely demanding lives and juggling a variety of activities: work, studying, kids, keeping the house clean, having a social life.

Unfortunately, excess stress can cause

feelings of irritation, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Even the smallest things can cause insomnia, loss of temper, migraines, IBS, a change in eating habits and even physical pain.

If you’re suffering from these problems, then there is a way that you help yourself.

Autogenic Therapy (AT) is a safe, easy-to-

learn, quick and proven deep relaxation and stress-beating technique, similar to meditation, that helps you switch off your body’s stress responses and switch on its relaxation response.

See the special offer for Families North London readers below and learn how you can take back control of your life.

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

5

health & happiness

Milk blisters… they are not as innocent as they look It is incredible that something as small and seemingly insignificant as a milk blister can cause so much pain and unbelievable discomfort. If you have experienced a blocked duct or even mastitis due to a milk blister, you will be keen to avoid any further episodes, so I want to lift the lid on the subject so that you can.

What is a MiLK BLister?

You may know it by a different name such as a blocked pore, milk spot, milk bleb, nipple spot or something else but in essence a milk blister forms on the tip of the nipple when skin covers a pore on the nipple. Often it is white in appearance but may become more opaque or yellowlooking if it has been present for a little while. It is usually more noticeable at the end of a feed or expressing session when the trapped milk sits right behind the thin layer of skin covering the pore, making it more visible.

Why do MiLK BListers to ForM? It is difficult to tell as there are a number of different origins. Sometimes it is something positive such as a mum who naturally has healthy hair, skin and nails which makes her more susceptible to developing milk blisters.

Other times milk blisters form when the breast isn’t drained effectively and fatty deposits line the milk ducts, similar to cholesterol lining the arteries. Over time milk ducts may become totally blocked and as the milk is not emptying through a milk pore, skin cells quickly grow over the pore to create a milk blister.

Other times milk blisters can be caused by simple things such as: • Incorrect or overuse of lanolin nipple creams that promote excess cell growth • Incorrect or overuse of nipple creams in general that block the pores • Poor positioning that results in a part of the breast not draining effectively • Nipple damage that results in scabs forming on the nipple covering nipple pores

nipple thrush, which delays treatment and can lead to more pain.

Have a look at the list and see if any of these resonate with what you are experiencing.

• Incredible pain when baby latches which subsides during the feed.

• Dull ache in nipple and the rest of the breast after feeds.

• Shooting pains into the breast (from the nipple up) at the start of the feed.

• Throbbing nipple at the end of the feed which may turn white and blue before becoming quite pink. (This is known as ‘vaso spasm of the breast’) • String like pumps in the breast which feel like spokes of a bicycle wheel, which are in fact blocked milk ducts.

• Congestion the breast which feels like the start of mastitis, which is the breast lobe connected to the blocked milk pore preventing milk drainage.

What shouLd i do iF i haVe a MiLK BLister?

1. It is always important to ensure that baby’s latch is as good as it can be, so that you don’t develop nipple damage and baby is able to drain the breast effectively.

2. Once your baby is latched, carefully check that both baby’s cheeks touch the breast evenly, so that baby can empty both the upper and lower half of the breast during the feed.

3. Use breast compression during the feed to help massage out any stubborn lumps.

4. Stop using lanolin nipple creams and if you have a scab on the nipple tip, apply a hot wet face cloth to the nipple for a couple of minutes before feeding. This will soften the skin and allow baby to open the pore more easily during the feed.

5. Ensure that you are drinking enough water to keep both yourself and baby hydrated. If you aren’t drinking enough water, your milk can become sticky and block the ducts which then results in a blocked pore.

6. If you are really suffering with blocked ducts and pores, speak to your doctor about taking lecithin. It will help clear your milk ducts of any fat deposits, so that the milk can easily flow to and out of the nipple.

7. Have your baby checked for a tongue-tie if your nipple continues to be pinched or compressed during the feed.

By compressing the breast and ensuring that both baby’s cheeks touch the breast, you should be able to improve breast drainage regardless of whether you have baby’s tongue-tie divided, so definitely give it a go.

Many mums never experience or come across a milk blister but if you do encounter one, you will be armed with all the practical tools you need to quickly and effectively resolve it.

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What sorts oF ProBLeMs WiLL MiLK BListers Cause?

It’s different for all mums and the levels of pain will vary depending on how long a milk blister has been present. Often the white dots on the nipple are mistaken for

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Just remember to use a flat hand rather than your fingertips, so that you don’t bruise or hurt yourself.

Call Vee on 07957 718659

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health & happiness

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

Return to Work

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 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: • Use 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.

Rest assured it’s perfectly normal to feel nervous and unsettled when 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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7

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 Working out a family routine

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!

•

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

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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

Can you conjugate a verb correctly?

Can you explain the difference between a noun, a verb and an adjective? Are you a serial offender when it comes to the misuse of the semicolon? If you can’t conjugate and you misuse your semicolon, then you’re not alone.

Chris Jolly, publisher of the Jolly Phonics Grammar series, explains why the explicit teaching of grammar is something we shouldn’t shy away from.

going to bed tonight Mummy’.

In practice, children learn the structure of the language in primary school, so that is where grammar should be taught.

We first published the Jolly Grammar in 2000 specifically for primary years in order to explicitly teach the concept of sentences, punctuation, proper and common nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives and adverbs. The feedback has always been that children accept these rule and enjoy playing with a language that appears enigmatic still to Mummy or Daddy.

When we write something, we hope that our original meaning will be communicated to our reader, be this a note in a school book, an email, or a legal or medical document. The point of writing is so that you, or someone else, can subsequently read what has been written. Grammar is a set of rules that helps us write exactly what we mean, it also prevents us from unwittingly communicating something ambiguous.

Many of today’s teachers weren’t taught grammar explicitly, and the mere mention of the word strikes fear into the heart of teachers and parents alike.

Reception aged children do not share ‘the fear’ that many people educated in the last 30 years do when faced with the ‘G-word’. Children are adept at using language, they have mastered their past and present tenses and use their future tenses in speech effectively: ‘I won’t be

Why should we care about grammar?

With the government’s forthcoming English grammar, punctuation and spelling test, colloquially known as SPaG, which will be sat for the first time this year (end of May) by key stage 2 pupils, ‘grammar’ has become a buzz word.

Tips for better grammar

visually seeing who in the class is with you and who isn’t.

Tip 1: Nouns Taking children through common and proper nouns, then moving on to abstract and collective nouns helps children become coherent in their use of language and grammar. Quite often we see that as a consequence, their speech improves and they become adept at using language in a full and flexible way.

We teach an action for proper nouns: The child puts index and middle finger where forehead meets nose.

We teach a different action for common nouns: The child taps the top of their head.

We then play a game calling out a proper noun or a common noun and ask the children to use the corresponding action. This is also a good way of

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Tip 2: Verbs When teaching grammar it’s helpful to explicitly teach what a verb is and to use it in simple present tense, then build on this by looking to past tense then future tense.

Even at an early stage children can learn how to conjugate regular verbs. (Conjugating your verbs means saying the pronouns in order, with the correct for of the verb after each one.) Understanding what it means to conjugate a verb will not only benefit the children’s literacy skills, but will also help them when they come to learn other languages later on.

A good way to introduce this exercise is to demonstrate to the class how to conjugate the verb to run in the present tense and incorporate the appropriate actions for pronouns: I: point to oneself

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The National Curriculum will also soon incorporate explicit grammar lessons and parents will start to see grammar trickle through their door and find its way to the kitchen table ready to test homework sessions.

Are we ready for it?

Grammar can appear highly complicated when all the rules are thrown at you at once. However, grammar is very accessible when it is taught in a multisensory way, step-by-step. Over the course of their primary school career we will teach a child that verbs are doing words, that every sentence must have one, that adverbs describe verbs, simple past present and future, irregular verbs, conjugating verbs, adding the suffix <ed>, the verb ‘to be’, and progressing on to continuous tenses, the present participle etc.

You: point to someone else He: point to a boy She: point to a girl It: point to the floor I run, you run, he runs, she runs, it runs, we run, you run, they run.

Tip 3: Punctuation Punctuation is a key component in the teaching of grammar, and one which can benefit from being ‘acted out’. Say a sentence with your class, or choose a child to say a sentence. Write it on the board, discuss it and come to a collective decision on where it needs punctuation.

Say the sentence aloud, pausing when punctuation is needed and doing the action (write the punctuation mark in the air), then carry on with saying the sentence. This is also a good activity when learning speech marks as well.

For further free resources: www.jollylearning.co.uk

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Starting School

By Victoria Murray, Early Years Specialist Teacher at kidsunlimited nurseries New starts are always daunting at any age, but starting school is one of the most memorable experiences a child will have.

However, this should be one that is exciting and enjoyable for you and your child, and not a source of worry.

One of the biggest differences for your child will be the level of independence that

they will want (and need) to demonstrate.

There are many practical little things you can do to aid this independence, such as: • Providing Velcro/slip on shoes (as opposed to laces) so that your child can fasten and unfasten these alone.

• Providing socks instead of tights so your child can remove these independently.

Another big change will be meal times.

Dining areas in schools tend to be a lot larger and busier than your child may be used to.

If possible, try to arrange your visits to the school so that your child can see what a meal time looks menus, seating arrangements and practicalities like asking for a drink or going to the toilet. It is important to try to organise an opportunity to visit the setting with your child before they start. This will help to ensure that your child has clear expectations of their new school and visiting together enables your child to have the opportunity to explore this new environment whilst feeling safe and secure with you. Whilst you are there, ask the staff if you are permitted to take photographs. These photographs can be used to make a photo book of your child’s new school which you can discuss together at home. This will enable your child to become familiar and reassured about their new environment.

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Calmer, Easier, Happier Homework

By Noel Janis-Norton

Many children resist doing their homework or resist doing it carefully. They may dawdle, make excuses, try to negotiate, rush through it in a slapdash way or complain that it’s too easy or too hard.

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As you child gets older, make sure she is learning how to take notes, plan essays, proof-read and revise effectively.

You may need to teach these skills yourself because most schools don’t have the time to do this consistently. Even if you think you don’t know much about study skills, you definitely know more than your child knows! And children, even teens, are willing to learn from parents, as long as parents are making a point of staying positive.

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Spend some one-on-one time with your child every day doing something you both enjoy – that’s not in front of a screen. This fosters in your child the desire to absorb your values.

Children seem to think that the purpose of homework is to get it over with! We, the adults, need to remember that the purpose of homework is to learn something, either to deepen the child’s understanding of the content or to practise skills or to memorise facts. In addition, homework is an ideal vehicle for guiding children to practise good habits that can last them a lifetime: willingness, courage, self-reliance, resilience, responsibility, problem-solving and doing one’s best.

One very good way to help children develop these important qualities is to divide each piece of homework into three stages:

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When parents don’t know how to motivate their child or teen to work carefully or revise thoroughly, they often end up nagging, telling off, urging or helping too much. These reactions, although understandable, often lead to ongoing conflicts that are not good for the parent-child relationship.

Luckily there are strategies parents can learn to help make homework more enjoyable and more productive. These strategies are all about establishing good habits. Solid, sensible work habits are far more important than temperament or even brains when we’re aiming for school success.

If we want our children to change their habits, we, the parents, need to change our own habits. Here are some tips from my most recent book, Calmer, Easier, Happier Homework:

Homework should start early enough that your child can finish before her brain or body get tired. If she is tired, she cannot possibly do her best, and homework should be about learning the habit of doing one’s best.

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Get your child into the habit of doing some homework or revision six days out of seven, even if no homework has been set for the next day. Routines reduce resistance.

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Plan for homework to be done at the same time every day, whenever possible. This will build a strong habit.

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Have your child do homework and revision in a public area, where you can make absolutely sure he is not updating his Facebook status or surfing You Tube. I do not recommend letting children, even teens, work in their bedrooms until they have consistently demonstrated that they are reliable and responsible, with strong study habits.

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There should be no distractions in the whole house during the sacred homework time. Rather than nagging, you need to remove all temptations: television, Ipods, mobile phones, noisy pets and appealing toys.

Don’t let your child leave the hardest subjects or tasks until last.

Have your child read for at least 15 minutes each evening from a book that is not too hard and not too easy.

Enhance his reading comprehension by asking questions which make him think.

Praise any improvement or effort.

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Stage One is the ‘think-through’.

The purpose of Stage One is to bring back into the child’s short-term memory the things he needs to think about in order to do his best. If you skip Stage One, children will just be practising their usual mistakes. This strategy is called a ‘thinkthrough’ because the parent has to think about the best questions to ask, and your child has to think about the best answers to your questions.

Ask your child leading questions such as ‘How long does this book report have to be?’, ‘What do sentences start with?’, ‘What will you do if you don’t know how to spell a word?’ You will know which questions to ask by thinking about which aspects of your child’s work you wish were better. For example, in written work parents often want to see improvements in accuracy, thoroughness or presentation – or in all three! As your child answers the think-through questions, he is visualising himself doing things correctly, and this automatically results in better (though not perfect) homework. You may be sceptical about this strategy. Try it for two weeks and see for yourself the delightful results.

A five minute think-through is ample.

If it takes any longer than that to make sure your child knows what he has to do and how to do it, then probably the homework is too hard for him.

Our children won’t be learning anything from homework that’s too hard. So if your child is really stuck on a

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back to school Solid, sensible work habits are far more important than temperament or even brains when weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re aiming for school success. concept or skill, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fall into the trap of trying to reteach it during the homework time. It will take too long, and it will try everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s patience. Instead, write a note to inform the teacher that your child does not know how to do a particular piece of homework. But donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let your child off the hook; otherwise he may claim his homework is too hard on another day just to get out of having to do it. Instead, take an executive decision to simplify the homework as much as is necessary so that your child can be learning something.

For example, the homework that has been set may be about the 7x table, but you may know your child has still not quite mastered the 2s, 5s, and 10s. Have him practise those until you are completely confident that he knows them before moving on to the next table.

Stage Two is the time for your child to do her homework without any help.

If there is any help you think she might need or want, instead ask think-through questions about that in Stage One. Stage Two is ongoing training in self-reliance, responsibility, maturity, problem-solving and exam practice.

Until your child has demonstrated that she is self-reliant, make the time to be in the same room with her during homework time, doing your own â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;workâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

This sets a good example, and it means you are available to motivate by praising small improvements in concentration, willingness, attention to detail, problemsolving, etc.

Descriptive Praise is the most powerful motivator that I have ever come across.

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Descriptive Praise consists of noticing and describing all the tiny steps in the right direction, even when the standard of work or the behaviour is not yet what you would like it to be. For example, to a child who is not yet willing to start his homework, you could say, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sitting in the right placeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

To a child who is working very slowly, you could say, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Even though youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d rather be skateboarding right now, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve already answered three of the questions on your worksheet.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Remember to smile and sound pleased, but leave out the superlatives like â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Brilliantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Fantasticâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that our children donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe anyway. The reason that Descriptive Praise is so effective is that every child wants to please his parents (even though it sometimes doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem like it!) so he will do more and more of whatever we notice and describe.

Stage Three is the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;improvingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; stage.

You and your child each point out three good things about the homework. Children learn a great deal from paying attention to what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done right, so be specific and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rush through this Descriptive Praise.

Depending on the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s age, you could say things like: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;You closed up your â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; so it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look like a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;uâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;You wrote four facts about photosynthesisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Then you and your child each find two things that need to be improved. Your child should then make those four corrections. Because you will have done the Stage One thinkthrough, there will be fewer mistakes than usual, but there may still be more than four.

Only require your child or teen to correct those four as we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want her to feel discouraged.

More quickly than you might imagine, these three stages teach children how to do their best and guide them into the habit of doing their best.

There is a lot more I could say about how parents can make homework enjoyable and productive â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a whole book, in fact! What motivated me to write

Reading tips for mums and dads â&#x20AC;˘ A void using words like â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;bookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;readingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; if your child is really struggling with reading and use euphemisms instead such as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Shall we look at this?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;˘ Try not to overcorrect if your child gets something slightly wrong. Gloss over it and only step in if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re getting lost so he/she doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel afraid and gains confidence â&#x20AC;˘ If your child comes to a word he/she doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know, write it down in a journal.

Then at your next session, go through the words and if he/she gets them right, stamp them with a smiley face â&#x20AC;˘ If your child hates reading, try a play such as Pinocchio â&#x20AC;&#x201C; some children that struggle with reading respond better to putting on a different voice and pretending to be someone else â&#x20AC;˘ Make sure the sessions are fun so your child looks forward to them â&#x20AC;&#x201C; some games such as Word Searches and Hangman are still practising reading skills

Calmer, Easier, Happier Homework is hearing from parents, again and again, about how stressful homework is, for both parents and children. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be like this! Homework really can be calmer, easier and happier.

If you would like to find out more about the Calmer, Easier, Happier Parenting resources (products and services), please visit www.calmerparenting.co.uk. Noel and her team welcome enquiries from parents and educators.

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The Importance of Exam Preparation....

by Lorrae Jaderberg and Katie Krais

Preparation is essential to making sure children feel as confident as possible to manage tests. We believe there are some key rules to stick to when preparing for a range of exams.

then they’ll need early nights, to eat well and relax in-between tests. Listen to any comments and concerns and keep life as light as possible during and around the tests.

If your child is going to be sitting the 11+ entrance exams, the same applies, however your child should have some sort of assessment so you know their current levels of achievement and their potential, rather than guessing if it’s worth doing.

This will ensure that sitting the 11+ is the right opportunity for your child, as it is highly selective and therefore only suitable for children who are working significantly above national expectations.

If your child is working at that level,

Before tests, find out what will be in the test; the types of questions. Do lots of practice and work on test technique, which also includes practising working in test conditions.

If your child is taking Year 6 SATs,

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then they will need a teacher to help them cover the right curriculum (what they will be tested on), practise the right type of questions (which may change annually) and fill in any gaps in their learning as it is unlikely they will have covered all that’s required during Year 5 and Year 6.

Your child will need to know and learn the curriculum content; be familiar with the sorts of questions that may be asked and how to answer them; have an understanding of what the examiner will be looking for and finally to know the formats and procedures for the tests.

Practising past papers is very helpful and will boost confidence.

We decided to create practice tests for 11+ children, so we designed two brand new 11+ mock exams to be held in realistic exam conditions. Designed by experts, the first exam for the state selective schools (held in June), follows the standards, format and procedures for schools such as: Latymer, Queen Elizabeth’s, Mill Hill County, Dame Alice Owen’s and Henrietta Barnett Schools and the second exam (held in November), for the independent schools’ entrance exams.

It consists of verbal reasoning, nonverbal reasoning, maths and English.

The four tests in one day help children practise their time management and develop their ability to stay calm even if faced with some question types they have not seen before.

After the mock exam, each child’s work is marked and the results drawn up in a report, which summarises and provides detailed recommendations for the next steps of revision, further teaching and progression.

Tips for exam days: ensure your child eats something for breakfast – even if they don’t usually. Take a pencil case and wear a watch to monitor the time. Stay calm and don’t listen to others. Read

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instructions carefully and use all the time – check answers if you finish early.

Following the test, make sure your child has a chance to relax, have fun and is not allowed to worry about the results.

When working for end of year exams, GCSEs, AS or A Levels, avoid revision being left until the last minute. Some students seem to thrive on last-minute ‘cramming’, however it is not advisable as it is stressful and not the best way to approach exams.

Set out a timetable for study; write down how many exams they have and the days on which they will sit them.

That will then help to organise and prioritise the order and intensity of study.

Some exams will need more study time than others, so it is important to find a sensible balance.

Ensure your child has enough space to spread their textbooks and notes out on.

Do they have enough light and is the chair comfortable and supportive enough for hours of continuous study?

Distractions need to be out of sight, such as computer games and mobile phones. It is vital to try and exclude all possible distractions during revision, so your child can focus. Some people prefer almost complete silence; for others, background music may be helpful. Some like to be in a room alone, whilst others prefer to be around others. Some of us need everything completely tidy and organized, whilst others prefer a more relaxed, cluttered environment. There’s no right or wrong here – whatever works effectively is the right answer.

Visual aids can be really helpful when revising. At the start of a topic, writing down everything already known about a specific area is helpful, and then highlighting where the gaps may be is a great way of checking which areas still needs to be covered in revision.

As the exam approaches, condense revision notes into one-page diagrams.

This is an excellent way to help quickly recall everything needed for the exam.

Practice is one of the most effective

ways to prepare for exams, so taking past papers will help get used to the format of the questions, and practising timing so that the right amount of time is spent on each section as appropriate, is sensible.

Parents and siblings can be useful at exam time – use them to your advantage; explain answers to questions to them. It will help you formulate your understanding and highlight any areas that need more revision or work.

Some students find it helpful to get together with friends and study, sharing queries and answers. As long as you stay focused on the area being revised for an agreed amount of time, this can be a very effective way of revising.

Remember everyone is different, so developing an appropriate and specific study routine that works is essential. If they study best in the morning, start early and take a break at lunchtime. However they’re more productive at night time, then a larger break earlier on will be best and then the evening can be spent working.

Recreation should also be built in to the schedule, but don’t let it take over.

Use the time in-between exams wisely and keep revision on track.

Leave behind the exams as soon as they have been taken. There is nothing more to be done to influence them. However, there is a lot that can be done to improve performance in the next exam to be taken – this is where the efforts should be focussed.

Vary revision subjects every evening, always starting with those that are hated, then finishing with those liked best.

Having everything ready well in advance of the exam is imperative – not leaving everything until the day before – for example: where to go, or what you’re supposed to bring. Check rules and requirements; plan routes and journey time. If possible, do a test run of the trip; if not, write down clear directions. How long will it take to get there? Then add on some extra time. Travel to the exam with friends or classmates; however they need to friends that are punctual.

What a person eats can really have an impact on energy levels and focus.

Keeping the body and brain well-fuelled, by choosing nutritious concentration food such as: fish, nuts, seeds, yogurt and blueberries, is a good plan. On exam day, a good meal should be eaten before the test, based on foods that will provide a slow release of energy throughout.

Sugar may seem appealing, but it won’t help when the energy levels drop an hour or so later.

Being well hydrated is essential for your brain to work at its best, so make sure plenty of water is available throughout revision, and on the exam day.

Some find a glucose sweet helps as it gets energy to the brain. Additionally, take

some deep breaths to relax and ignore everyone around you in the moments before the exam starts.

Should a student feel unwell during an exam, they must make sure the teacher in charge knows, as they may receive special consideration, especially if there is a valid case and under-performance.

Finally, some anxiety is to be expected and is useful as it will help to keep students sharp!

The JKT 11+ Mock Exam has proved invaluable for children preparing to sit for the 11+ exams. Our next JKT 11+ Mock Exam will be on 17th November – from Jaderberg Krais Educational Consultancy.

For more information, or to book a place for your child to sit the JKT Mock 11+ Exam please call Katie Krais on: 07956 111728 or visit: www.jaderbergkrais.co.uk

Time to Shine!

Numerous studies have proven the negative effect that the media can have on teenage girls’ self-esteem and body image at a time when they are already experiencing social and peer pressure.

To combat this effect, Year 9 girls from Thames Christian College are taking part in a personal development programme ‘ShineGIRL’ to empower them to understand their own personal worth, strengths and purpose. Sessions aim to develop a strong sense of personal identity, confidence and hope.

The idea is to equip the girls to realise their full potential by identifying their individual desires and motivating them to set and achieve personal goals.

Emily O’Boyle said: ‘The programme is a lot of fun and re-energising. It has helped me to think about myself in a positive light and consider what I would really like to achieve in life.’

To find out more visit www. thameschristiancollege.org.uk or come along to one of our open days.

Open Day Dates: Thursday 26th September 11.00-12.30 Saturday 5th October 10.00-1.00 Wednesday 9th October 11.00-12.30

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Which secondary is right for my child?

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

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.

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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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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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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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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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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 Inspire your child!

Children learn best when they are having fun and are confident in their environment.

Beanstalk volunteer readers wanted!

Do you have a passion for reading? Can you spare two afternoons per week during school term time and commit for at least one year?

Beanstalk is a national literacy charity that recruits, vets, trains and supports volunteers to work in primary schools with children who have fallen behind with their reading.

Last year 1 in 8 children left primary school without reaching the standard expected of them. That has knock on effects for them in secondary school and in the work place, but, with individual support, children’s reading skills can improve dramatically.

The North West and North East London branches of Beanstalk work in 135 schools across North London, with 376 reading helpers supporting 474 children.

Beanstalk volunteer manager Harriet Watson said: ‘We are looking for volunteers from all areas of North London, including Hackney, Islington, Camden, Haringey, Barnet and Enfield.’

Beanstalk reading helpers come from all walks of life, including parents and the recently retired. They volunteer for many different reasons but they’re united by a love of reading and a commitment to helping children to read, grow and succeed Each Beanstalk reading helper works with three children and sees each child for two 30 minute sessions a week, during term-time, for a whole year. Together, they read, play games and talk. With Beanstalk’s support the child’s approach to learning and enjoying reading is often transformed.

If you would like to know more about the scheme and the training you will receive, please contact Harriet Watson on 0845 4500 301 or 0207 372 7523 or e-mail: londonnorthwest@beanstalkcharity.org.uk You can also apply online at www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk

Active Learning promotes the development of the complete child introducing them to an exciting programme of learning through a truly innovative Studio programme.

Dedicated specialist teachers in the ‘state of the art’ studios nurture children as unique and individual, ensuring they bring out the best in each and every child, helping them to discover and maximize the potential of their own talents.

‘I have never seen anything like it’, exclaims many an excited parent as they enter an Active Learning nursery.

Active Learning Childcare 0800 081 1620 info@activelearningchildcare.co.uk

Choosing the right Nursery How do you find the right nursery for your daughter? Choosing a nursery attached to an established, successful school ensures a quality education, encouraging self-confidence and independent thinking.

The Mount School nursery takes girls from age 3, providing spacious, well-equipped classrooms, specialist teachers, secure outdoor play areas and an extended day for busy parents as well as the security of a reception class place at 4+.

Spaces can arise in our junior classes so if you are concerned that your daughter is not reaching her full potential please contact us.

For information call 02089593403 or visit www.mountschool.com.

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

17

back to school

School Open Days CHANNING SCHOOL The Bank, Highgate, N6 5HF 020 8340 2328 channing.co.uk Independent School for Girls 4-18 years Junior School Visits Call or email for information.

Senior School Open Day September 19, October 7, 15, November 13 Book places online.

Sixth Form Open Evening September 25, October 2 Booking required.

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 19, October 1 Early booking required.

Open Days 11+ entry September 27, October 2, 17 No booking required.

Open Days 16+ entry September 18 Booking reserved for 2014 entry candidates.

ETON COLLEGE Windsor SL4 6DW 01753 671000 etoncollege.com Independent School Boys 13-18 years Introductory Tours Tours for 10-year-olds arranged through the admissions office.

Funded places available for a small

number of state school children.

Summer schools for visiting students during summer holidays.

School Tours Wed/Fri/Sat/Sun from September 6-October 20 and October 21-27 Pre-Booked Tours for Adults only October 28-November 16 Public Tours Short guided tours on selected dates.

Cost £7.50/£6.50.

HABERDASHERS’ ASKE’S BOYS’ SCHOOL Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF 020 8266 1700 habsboys.org.uk Independent School Boys 4-18 years Open Day October 5 All parts of the school will be open.

1-4pm. Group tours by arrangement throughout the year.

HABERDASHERS’ ASKE’S SCHOOL FOR GIRLS Aldenham Road, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3BT 020 8266 2300 habsgirls.org.uk Independent School Girls 4-18 years Open Morning Juniors October 5 10am-12.30pm.

Open Day Senior October 5, 10 Sixth Form October 8 By appointment only. Call or email.

HARROW SCHOOL 5 High Street, Harrow on the Hill, Middlesex HA1 3HP 020 8872 8007 (admissions) harrowschoool.org.uk Independent Boarding School Boys 13-18 years Open Mornings September 14, 21, October 5 November 2, 30 Book a place online. Private visits can be arranged during term time on Tuesdays & Thursdays.

HIGHGATE SCHOOL North Road, N6 4AY 020 8340 1524 (Senior) highgateschool.org.uk Co-educational school 3-18 years.

Sixth Form September 11, October 9 Book via email or phone.

Open Day 11+ & 13+ October 5 Online booking required.

KING ALFRED SCHOOL Manor Wood, North End Rd, NW11 020 8457 5200 kingalfred.org.uk Independent School 4-18 years Open Morning Reception to Year 6 October 17 Register via email.

Open Morning Year 7 to 11 September 26 Register via email.

Sixth Form Open Evening September 30, November 18 Register via email.

THE LATYMER UPPER SCHOOL Haselbury Road Edmonton, London N9 9TN 020 8807 4037 latymer.co.uk

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NORTH LONDON COLLEGIATE SCHOOL Canons, Canons Drive, Edgware, Middlesex HA8 7RJ 020 8952 0912 (Senior) nlcs.org.uk Independent School Girls 4-18 years Open Day September 21 Junior school will be open from 10am-12.30pm and the Senior School will be open from 1.30pm4.30pm. Visits on other dates can be made by prior appointment.

Taster Afternoons Opportunity to try out life at the school and to take part. Sessions will be held in the Autumn term.

Sixth Form Open afternoon will be held in October. Call or email to book a place.

PALMERS GREEN HIGH SCHOOL 104 Hoppers Road, N21 3LJ 020 8886 1135 pghs.co.uk Independent School for Girls 3-16 yrs

Open Days September 14, November 9 Tickets are required for Open Days, Closing date for entries: December 2

Open Morning October 12 Main school and nursery. No booking required. Personal visits can be arranged by appointment.

MILL HILL SCHOOL FOUNDATION The Ridgeway, Mill Hill Village, NW7 1QS 020 8959 1176 (Senior) millhill.org.uk

Nursery Working open mornings held every Wednesday from November.

Co-educational Grimsdell – Day School 3-7 years.

Belmont – Day School 7-13 years.

Mill Hill School – Boarding and Day School 13-18 years.

18

Foundation Open Morning October 12 All three schools will be on show.

Individual tours on other dates can be arranged via the admissions office.

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QUEEN’S COLLEGE LONDON 43-49 Harley Street, W1G 8BT 020 7291 7000 qcl.org.uk Independent School Girls 11-18 Open Evening September 18, 19

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back to school GIVE YOUR CHILD THE BEST START IN LIFE The perfect balance of play & learning based on Early Years Foundation guidelines Caters for children from 0 - 5 years Dedicated areas for Under 2s, Over-2s and 3 - 4 years Open spaces for physical play, PE, dancing and yoga. Indoor sand area ICT, Music & drama, quiet areas Outdoor area. Trips to park & local facilities Healthy food prepared in custom-built kitchen Highly-qualified staff Excellent Ofsted Report in 2012 and 2013 Children love it! Parents rave about it!

If you would like more details please contact Linda or Jonathan

k i dz k bin

on:

020 8815 5922

www.kidzkabin.com Where learning is child’s play

Pembroke Studios . 139-141 Pembroke Road . Muswell Hill . London N10 2JE

Open Day

GSA Independent Day School for girls aged 3-16 years

10.00am to 12.30pm Head’s talk at 11.00am

Open Mornings- School in Action Thursday 17th October 2013 Wednesday 6th November 2013 9.00am to 10.30am Head’s talk at 9.15am

You are welcome to attend one of our events or contact us to arrange a private visit Milespit Hill, Mill Hill, London NW7 2RX

www.mountschool.com Contact Registrar on 020 8238 8104

The Mount School

Saturday 5th October 2013

‘To be rather than to seem to be’

Get the free mobile app at

http:/ / gettag.mobi

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

19

back to school Book in advance via the admissions office.

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

open day October 15, November 14 Held during a normal school day.

Book in advance.

Thamesbecause small schools build big futures

open evening sixth Form October 3

south haMPstead hiGh sChooL Junior School – 5 Netherhall Gardens, NW3 5RN 020 7794 7198 Senior School – 3 Maresfi eld Gardens, NW3 5SS 020 7435 2899 shhs.gdst.net Independent Girl’s School GDST 4-18 years open days Junior school Regular tours. Contact the school for details. open Mornings senior school September 24, October 8 November 7, 14, 19 For Year 6 pupils. Contact admissions office to reserve a place. autumn tour sixth Form October 9 Online enquiry form or contact the admissions office to book a place.

the CaVeNdish sChooL 31 Inverness Street, NW1 7HB 020 7485 1958 cavendishschool.co.uk Independent Preparatory Girls 2 years 9 months to 11 years.

Sibling Boys up to 7 years. open days October 5 Open days held once a term. the heNrietta BarNett shooL Central Square Hampstead Garden Suburb London, NW11 7BN open days July 11, 12

NDPAINTED the MouNt sChooL LS

4 991

Milespit Hill, Mill Hill, NW7 2RX 020 8238 8104 (Registrar) mountschool.com GSA Independent Day School Girls 3-16 years.

our exceptional independent school for boys and girls

open day October 5 No booking required but registering preferred. Private visits by arrangement. open Mornings October 17, November 6

the sWaMiNarayaN sChooL (hiNdu) 260 Brentfi eld Road Neasden London, NW10 8HE 020 8965 8381 swaminarayan.brent.sch.uk Independent school for boys Visiting the school Prospective parents are asked to telephone the School Secretary on 020 8965 8381 to arrange a visit and a meet with the Headteacher

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 5th OCTOBER 10 .0 0 -1 .0 0 For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, Wye Street, London SW11 2HB

Learn to Read in 5 Weeks – for FREE!

uNiVersity CoLLeGe sChooL Frognal, NW3 6XH 020 7435 2215 ucs.org.uk Day school 3-18 years.

Junior Branch Boys & Senior School Boys + mixed Sixth Form. open evenings 7+ September 12, October 3 Places need to be booked. open evenings 11+ & 13+ September 18, 23, October 7 open evenings sixth Form September 16, 24

iNdePeNdeNt sChooLs shoW Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park SW11 4NJ ( Sloane Square) schoolsshow.co.uk November 9, 10 Information, help and advice on choosing a school. Register for free tickets. £10 on door.

ORIGINAL HANDPAINTED MURALS

07572 634 991

From 26 August to 30 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. Whats more, for every new sign up Reading Eggs will donate £1 to our charity partner Tommy’s!

FREE 5 WEEK TRIAL*

Hurry, offer ends 30 September, 2013. Register today at

www.readingeggs.co.uk/learn *Free trial only available for new customers who sign up at the above address.

Proudly supporting Tommy’s

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The multi-award winning online reading programme!

20

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back to school

Christ Church, Heriot Road, Hendon, NW4 2EG Telephone: 020 8202 5687

Individual tutoring and assessments available 5-18yrs children, including children with special educational needs.

Preparation for 11+ state selective and independent secondary school entrance examinations.

Free 15-hour places available for 3-4-year-olds Full, part-time and sessional day-care for children aged 2-5-years-old Places available starting September 2013 Open Monday-Friday 8am-6pm

Katie Krais

P.G.C.E., Cert. Spld.

Open 48 weeks per year

Lorrae Jaderberg

Fully-trained staff

Cert.Ed., Cert. Spld.

Tel: 07956 111728

www.jaderbergkrais.co.uk

All welcome Please call to make an appointment to view the Nursery

kidsunlimited day nurseries providing naturally inspiring childcare

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• Fully inclusive fees covering all nappies, milk and meals.

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• Highbury • Mary Seacole (Camden) • Regent’s Place

• Ladbroke Grove • Chelsea • East Barnet

For further information call or visit:

0845 365 2160 | kidsunlimited.co.uk *At participating nurseries - please quote familieslondon

To advertise in Families North London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familiesnorth.co.uk kids_Familes_London_July_13.indd 1

21 05/08/2013 16:25:37

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,

22

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

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.

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. familiesnorth.co.uk

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special needs

Netbuddy: the website for parents and carers of children with special needs Bedtime can be a challenge for any parent, as can getting ready for school… washing hair… brushing teeth... monitoring TV time. But when your child has special needs, those daily routines can be even harder.

Deborah Gundle, creator of www.netbuddy. org.uk, says her self-styled ‘mumsnet for special needs’ works on a very simple principle: why re-invent the wheel? Why struggle to solve a problem when someone has probably already done it for you?

Netbuddy is a social networking site for parents and carers of people with learning disabilities, offering hundreds of simple, yet ingenious solutions to everyday issues.

Tips are contributed by parents and carers with first-hand experience of learning disability, and organised into easy-to-find categories such as ‘Dressing & undressing’, ‘Bed-wetting’ ‘Brushing teeth’, ‘Challenging behaviour’ and ‘Communication’.

‘The idea is to capture that huge wealth of information parents and carers have, and make it available for other people to tap in to, quickly and simply, when they need it,’ says Gundle.

‘It’s an instant source of advice for moments of crisis, but it’s also a great place to browse and pick up ideas.’

In addition to the tips sections, there are forums where visitors can ask for help with specific practical problems they are experiencing. They can talk to other parents or seek specialist advice from a panel of learning disability professionals.

There are also information packs on the site, full of useful links and resources, on subjects such as ‘Siblings’, ‘Challenging behaviour’, ‘Financial help’ and ‘Arts & Leisure’. And the latest addition to the site is an inclusive events guide, listing what’s-on information around the country for people with learning disabilities and autism.

The inspiration for Netbuddy came about when Gundle’s oldest son, Zach, was little.

Zach was born with Angelman syndrome, a rare

genetic syndrome that causes severe physical and intellectual disabilities. For Gundle, one of the biggest frustrations was the time and energy she spent solving day-to-day problems.

‘Zach was still crawling till he was about seven, and I spent ages trying different things to protect his knees, which were always rough and bruised,‘ she says. ‘Finally I hit on the perfect solution – goalkeeper trousers for kids, which were padded in all the right places. But Zach was nearly walking by then and I couldn’t help wishing I’d thought of them earlier.

‘Every time something went wrong for me, I instinctively knew someone else had probably solved the same problem. When Zach started having fi ts and not sleeping –things that a lot of parents go through – I knew if I just had access to someone with that experience, they could help. You can sometimes spend years trying to solve something which someone else already knows a solution to.’

Netbuddy does not claim to take the place of health visitors or professionals. Nor does it promise to have all the answers. But it does offer that all-important contact with someone in the same boat. ‘Unless you’re living with special needs day-to-day, you can’t really know what it’s like,’ says Gundle. ‘When you have that direct experience, you may not be an academic or a clinical professional, but you’re the real expert.’

For parents and carers, Netbuddy fills a basic need for practical problem-solving, but it also offers the reassurance of a supportive community. Caring for a child with special needs can be an isolating experience, but sharing ideas and information helps bring people together. Just knowing that someone else has gone through the same thing can make a huge difference.

‘Netbuddy works because people in the learning disability community want to help each other,’ says Gundle. ‘If they can offer some support or advice that will make someone else’s journey easier, they will. That’s what Netbuddy is all about – passing on what you have learned to others who can benefit from it.’

Since it’s launch in 2010, Netbuddy has gone from strength to strength. Picking up a Media Trust award for inspiring disadvantaged communities in 2011, Gundle went on to be listed in the Independent on Sunday’s Happy List in 2012. Last year Samantha Cameron hosted a reception for Netbuddy at Downing

Street, describing it as a ‘vital resource’ for families affected by learning disabilities, and in March this year, Gundle was announced Inspiration of the Year at the FDM everywoman in Technology Awards.

‘I’m thrilled by the recognition Netbuddy has achieved,’ says Gundle. ‘But for me, the real measure of its success is the comments we’ve had from parents. We’ve had people writing in telling us that a tip they’ve picked up on Netbuddy has changed their lives. Sometimes it can be a really simple idea, but it might have given them their first full night’s sleep in 10 years or provided the breakthrough in toilet training they’d been desperate for.

That’s truly fantastic!’

For more information visit www.netbuddy.org.uk

The idea is to capture that huge wealth of information parents and carers have, and make it available for other people to tap in to, quickly and simply, when they need it.

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

23

special needs dySleXia According to the recent report A Fish in the Tree by The Driver Youth Trust on average, 3 children in every classroom are dyslexic and struggle with literacy – this equates to 1.2 million in the UK. Reading and writing is essential when it comes to the intellectual development of a child. But if a child has literacy problems like dyslexia, this development becomes even more challenging.

Though dyslexia is categorised as a disability, if you see the signs and catch it early enough, using the right tools and techniques, your child should have a good chance of developing at the same pace as every other pupil in their class.

Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you to determine if your child is dyslexic : 1. Firstly, dyslexia is hereditary so do you or anyone in your family have dyslexia?

2. Does your child display poor concentration and are they easily distracted?

3. Is their performance in class below average compared to their classmates?

4. Do they struggle with their ‘b’s and ‘d’s, ‘p’s and ‘q’s and use them the wrong way round?

5. Do they have difficulty following instructions especially if they are written?

6. When reading out loud, do they miss words or add words that are not included?

7. Do they take longer to read compared to other children their age?

8. Are their oral skills noticeably more developed compared to their reading and writing skills?

9. During activities, do they prefer to keep to themselves rather than play with others?

10. Do they have a headache or tummy ache on the days they have a particular lesson that they do not like?

Should your child experience most of these indicators, it is likely that they have some degree of dyslexia. Identifying that your child has dyslexia is the first step and early identification is crucial. With a combination of technology and techniques, your child has every opportunity to overcome dyslexia at school, at home and ultimately, at work.

Texthelp, leading manufacturer of dyslexia support software would love to offer you advice on solutions that can help your child with their dyslexia. For more information please visit http://texthelp.com/uk/campaigns/ readwrite-gold

Please view our website for more details:

www.talkwithus.co.uk Any enquiries please contact:

We offer an experienced, professional, friendly and personal service.

Naomi Nissim 07956 54 64 13 naomi@talkwithus.co.uk or

Hannah Feldman 07769 69 41 20 hannah@talkwithus.co.uk

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TALKWITHUS AD.indd 1

We are an independent Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy Practice working in London.

Our service provides home and school visits or appointments in our clinic.

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special needs

Classes for Children with Special Needs in North & East London Art & Craft art aNd CraFt studios 2 Park Avenue, Wood Green, N22 7EX hoffmannfoundation.org.uk Classes Art and craft activities for adults with an Autism Spectrum Condition.

Cookery Kids CooKery sChooL 107 Gunnersbury Lane, Acton, W3 8HQ ( Acton) 020 8992 8882 thekidscookeryschool.co.uk Classes Special cookery workshops for children who have complex special needs – all equipment suitable for wheelchair users. Up to 12 students can enjoy practical cookery lessons in the purpose-built kitchens.

Films haCKNey PiCturehouse 270 Mare Street, E8 1HE 0871 902 5734 ( Hackney Central) picturehouses.co.uk/hackney autism-Friendly screenings For those sensitive to sound and light or find it difficult going to the cinema. Special screenings with low lights left on and reduced volume.

Cost £3.

PhoeNiX CiNeMa 52 High Road, N2 9PJ ( East Finchley) 020 8444 6789 phoenixcinema.co.uk autism Friendly screenings On selected dates.

Horse riding GiLLiaNs ridiNG sChooL Brayside Farm, Beggars Hollow Clay Hill, Enfield, EN2 9JL 020 8366 5445 gilliansridingschool.com disability Classes Horses suitable for riders with mild and severe learning and physical disabilities. Longer sessions available during off peak times.

Lee VaLLey ridiNG CeNtre 71 Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, E10 020 8556 2629 visitleevalleypark.org.uk

riding for the disabled sessions Half hour classes for groups up to five riders. Instructors assist riders and lead the horses.

Book in advance. 5+ years.

British MuseuM Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG ( Tottenham Ct Road) 020 7323 8000 britishmuseum.org

Learning resources & tuition

Facilities Touch tours for the Egyptian Sculpture Gallery and the Parthenon Sculptures; accompanied visits around the museum; large print information; handling sessions and free companion tickets for paying exhibitions. Check at the information desk on arrival – some facilities need to be booked in advance.

BarNet & southGate CoLLeGe Grahame Park NW9 5RA Southgate N14 6BS 020 8266 4000 barnetsouthgate.ac.uk supported Learning Specially designed courses for students with learning difficulties and mental health needs.

taLK With us Contact Naomi on 07956 546 413 & Hannah 07769 694 120 talkwithus.co.uk specialist speech & Language therapy Advice and help in many areas including dyslexia, autism, downs syndrome, stammering and hearing impairment. Home and school visits or clinic appointments in Temple Fortune.

Leisure centres & fitness clubs haCKNey Leisure CeNtres Britannia Leisure Centre, Clissold Leisure Centre, Kings Hall Leisure Centre Free swimming Swim free. Registration or proof of eligibility required. Disabled and special needs swimming lessons also available.

Places to visit

BruCe CastLe MuseuM Lordship Lane, N17 8NU ( Seven Sisters) 020 8808 8772 haringey.gov.uk the hoffman Foundation for autism hoffmannfoundation.org.uk October Exhibition of competition entries from the Art & Craft studios in Haringey.

ChiCKeNshed theatre Chase Side, Southgate, N14 4PE ( Cockfosters/Oakwood) 020 8292 9222 chickenshed.org.uk the Government inspector October 19 Captioned performance October 22 Signed performance A government inspector is sent to investigate a town with moneygrabbing officials. A comedy of manners and errors. 10+ years.

Cost £10.

suttoN house MusiC soCiety At Sutton House, 2 Homerton High Street, E9 6JQ ( Bethnal Green) 07505 609757 Bookings shms.org.uk Classical Music Concerts October 20, November 10 All welcome. Cost £10/concessions £8. Free entry for disabled people and carers.

BarBiCaN CeNtre Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS ( Barbican) 020 7638 4141 barbican.org.uk

ZsL LoNdoN Zoo Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY ( Regent’s Park) zsl.org

the Curious scrapbook of Josephine Bean November 3 (BSL Interpreted performance) Scrapologist Patricia Baker looks after old scrapbooks flattened and squashed with information and tries to find out where they came from. Foyer activities before each performance. 7+ years. Cost £8.50.

Meet the Penguins Enter the VIP area on the penguin beach. Limited daily places.

Book in advance. Participants with learning or physical disabilities including wheelchair users are welcome. A carer/accompanying adult goes free. Cost £45 (weekdays) and £60 (weekends) each. Entry to the zoo extra.

Theatre workshops aNGeL shed Studio Theatre, City & Islington College, 444 Camden Road, N7 OSP 07910 822 412 angelshedtheatre.org.uk info@angelshedtheatre.org.uk theatre Groups Welcomes children with additional needs. 7-16 years.

CeNtre 404 404 Camden Road, N7 OSJ ( Holloway Road) centre404.org.uk stages Saturdays Performing Arts club for children and young people with learning disabilities. 11-18 years.

haLFMooN youNG PeoPLe’s theatre 43 White Horse Road, E1 OND (Stepney Green/Limehouse ) 020 7709 8900 halfmoon.org.uk solar youth theatre From September 25 All youth theatre groups are open to young people with disabilities, but this is a specialist group held on Wednesdays for disabled teenagers.

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.

Toddlers & babies BoBath CeNtre 250 East End Road, East Finchley, N2 8AU ( East Finchley) 020 8444 3355 bobath.org.uk Children’s Centre An out-patient centre providing physiotherapy treatment for children with all types of cerebral palsy.

radioMarathoN CeNtre 188 Turkey Street (Bulls Cross side), Enfield, EN1 4NW (Turkey Street ) 01992 713 297 radiomarathon.co.uk Children Centre Sensory room, toy room and soft play area. Parents and toddler groups on Wednesdays. Under 5 years.

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25

special needs

Top Tips for how parents can become more involved in their child’s education By sara Meaker, schools Liaison Manager (and former teacher), dore (www.dore.co.uk)

There is much evidence to show the positive impact of parental involvement on a child’s education, including learning outcomes and confidence.

However, although there are a lot ways for parents to take a proactive approach to school life, such as attending meetings, volunteering in the classroom or helping with school plays, many of these are not feasible for families with busy schedules or very young children. These four top tips for how parents can become more involved in their child’s education are realistic and achievable for every family...

1. setting small, achievable tasks There are many barriers that can stop parents being involved in their child’s education, such as a busy job or young babies at home.

Sometimes parents can feel too intimidated or embarrassed to become involved, especially if they have not had a good experience of school themselves.

For parents, it is so easy to feel guilty for not doing enough with their children. However, it is important for parents to know that there are so many valuable ways that they can become more involved, however small. For example parents who work long hours may not have time to come to evening events at the school; however they may have half an hour each week to read with their child or help them with

2. Keeping continuity between home and school Often children behave very differently in home and school environments, and this can be particularly true for children with special educational needs. Keeping contact between home and school can help to keep behaviour and performance consistent.

This can be achieved by sharing learning tools and establishing routines, which will be the same at home and at school. For example, with the schools that have implemented the DORE Programme (www.dore.co.uk), a physical exercise programme for people with learning difficulties, we encourage them to schedule the exercises at the same time and in the same room each day. If parents share the exercise routine and set a time and location at home for the exercises, the child will be more likely to behave in the same way as they do at school.

Likewise parents may like to share with the school if they have a particularly effective way of speaking or interacting with their child..

Continuity between home and school also creates a much more stable environment for the child, which can improve behaviour and learning outcomes.

3. open lines of communication Communication is really important for keeping a good relationship between parents and teachers. However, a teacher’s job is to teach, and communication must not therefore take

angel Shed Angel Shed’s vision is that every child, regardless of disability, income or background be given the opportunity to shine in the performing arts. We are a fully inclusive theatre charity, providing specialist opportunities for children otherwise excluded from this kind of activity.

Angel Shed Theatre is based at the City and Islington College, Holloway, and we run theatre workshops every Thursday during term time with children and young people aged 7-16. We always work towards original productions created and directed by the artistic team.

We also offer opportunities for young people aged 16+ to be trained in inclusive theatre practice and be a practitioner working with and supporting the children and young people in

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their homework. Keeping a log of this will help to remind parents that they are still playing a valuable role in their child’s education.

the sessions. These volunteers gain experience with children and young people including those with additional needs, delivering and assisting creative workshops, training in child protection, British Sign Language and community theatre techniques and the opportunity to experience other aspects of theatre, such as admin, fundraising, outreach and technical support.

‘My son is autistic and unable to access mainstream theatre activities because of his disability... At the beginning he could only stay in rehearsals for ½ hour but a few months in he can do a whole two hour session and all the performances. He absolutely loves being part of this fantastic company.’ Parent of youth theatre member.

up too much of a teacher’s time, or get in the way of day to day activities. It is helpful if, for example, parents can specify the way they would prefer to be contacted, such as text message, email or phone call, and then set a day when the teachers will be in contact each week, month or term. In this way, parents can be comfortable knowing that they are being kept in the loop without feeling like they are having to chase or push for updates. This will also help to build a trusting relationship between families and teachers, which will encourage parents to become not only more involved in their own child’s education, but also life at the school.

4. Make the most of resources that are available Education resources are no longer confined to school. Through websites such as the e-Learning Foundation’s Good for Learning Portal (www.goodforlearning.org.uk), parents have access to a wealth of resources and information which they can use with their child. The portal provides links to resources such as ePace, an online assessment tool (www.epaceonline.com) that has been designed for children aged 7 to 17 years, to find out how they learn. Through a series of fun exercises, each child registers their strengths and weaknesses in 11 different skill and ability areas. The results are instantly generated and performance is compared to national averages.

Understanding how their child learns can make helping their child with their education so much easier, and can improve learning outcomes significantly. For example, if they are a visual learner, drawing a diagram or a mind map to explain a concept will work much better than describing it verbally.

For further information please visit www.

DORE.co.uk or phone 0333 123 0100.

College, 444 Camden Road, London, N7 0SP day: Thursdays (during term time) Groups: Children’s Theatre (age 7-11 – school year 3-6) and Youth Theatre (age 11-16 – school year 7-11) times: Children’s Theatre 5.30pm-6.45pm and Youth Theatre 7.30pm-8.45pm Cost: £100 per term (support initiatives are in place) Contact us: W: www.angelshedtheatre.org.uk E: info@angelshedtheatre.org.uk N: 07910 822 412 Facebook: Angel Shed Twitter: @AngelShed A: Angel Shed, CANDI, 444 Camden Road, London, N7 0SP

Venue: Studio Theatre, City and Islington

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recipes

Annabel Karmel 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.

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.

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

Apple And Carrot Muffins

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

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

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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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.

5-7

For aGes 5-7 years

Short John Silver

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.’

Catch that Bat!

by adam Frost (Bloomsbury £4.99)

Ed says: ‘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

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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)

Ed says:

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.’

‘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 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.’

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.

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.

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Clubs & Classes Art & craft Sport Performing arts Workshops

don n o L h t r No s and Club ses Clas

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clubs and classes

aWard-Winning kidS SportS claSSeS hit muSWell hill

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 confi dence, 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/effi cacy.

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?

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cluB petit pierrot Club Petit Pierrot, London’s premier French Club, now have many Parent & Toddler groups (from 8 months old) in St John’s Wood/Maida Vale and Swiss Cottage, where parent and toddler can have fun learning French together. There are also stimulating after-school and Saturday classes for older children, whether beginners or advanced. The lessons are totally in French with many varied activities – songs, dances, rhymes, language games, language exercises, arts & crafts, educational toys, role-play, puppets etc… fun, fun, fun!

They are offering a FREE trial lesson to children who are new to the Club, so book early to avoid disappointment!

Call 020 7385 5565 or email admincpp@btconnect.com Visit www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk to discover their many classes across London.

They also offer private tuition at home and they teach their programme in many prestigious schools in London.

Small groups, excellent results, native French teachers (all CRB checked), all levels.

Highly recommended by BBC, Daily Telegraph, Daily Express & Time Out. Above: ‘Le toit’ – Fun French with Club Petit Pierrot

What the ladyBird heard Thursday 10-Sunday 13 October Artsdepot, North Finchley 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk

The best activity for young children, as voted by parents in a national awards scheme, has just launched in Muswell Hill. The ‘What’s On 4 Junior 2013’ Awards which polled over 76,000 parents recognised Enjoy-a-Ball, a sports coaching programme for 3-9 year olds, as the UK’s leading activity for youngsters. Physi-ball, for ball-loving toddlers aged 18months-3 years has also launched in Muswell Hill and classes for all age groups are also available in Mill Hill, Golders Green and Finchley.

For details of all classes, parties & holiday camps, call 08452 26 26 94, email northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com or visit www.enjoy-a-ball.com.

360 artS Award winning actress, Simone Lahbib, is opening her own performing arts school, ‘360 Arts’, in North Finchley.

On 1st September there will be open scholarship auditions! X Factor fi nalist Melanie Masson will be launching the school on 8th September!

360 Arts will introduce pupils to writing, directing, choreography, stage management, camera and audition technique, rehearsing and performing on stage and much more!

360 Arts are also affiliated with ‘Daisy and Dukes’ agency, Our website is: www.360arts.co.uk. E-mail admin@360arts.co.uk, tel: 07580846993

stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Lydia Monks’ colourful farmyard adventure. With live music, puppetry, plenty of audience participation and lots of laughs!

Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. But they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all: The Ladybird has a plan of her own!

Book early for artsdepot’s glittering family treat. Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog in this brand new

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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

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

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 and 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 recognize progress.

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 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.

• Suitable for children aged 3-13.

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.

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clubs and classes mathS doctor leaderS are readerS – reading all the Way According to Independent Schools Show, selective schools aim for ‘strong academic results, delightful and well- motivated children who are flexible thinkers with a social conscience’.

Leaders are Readers are very excited to be holding a reading relay fundraiser (Sat 12th October) for Readathon, as part of Children’s Book Week. We will be aiming to read as many books as possible in 2 hours. Children will be reading in small circles according to age/ ability. We want as many children to join in and raise money for Readathon. It’s a great opportunity for children to be introduced to the idea of giving back and that they can make a difference! If you would like details of how your child can join in please email: info@ leadersarereaders.co.uk or call: 08452 570 570 or 01992 651 300 Leaders are Readers was launched in 1999 to help parents interested in helping their children excel academically. There are three centres for our classroom based learning. We specialise in teaching children from as young as 3.5 years to read, write and spell, and from 4.5 to 11 years we teach mathematical reasoning, vocabulary, grammar, creative writing and more.

We also provide support to children preparing for entrance exams to independent and selective schools.

Leaders are Readers are committed to make our service broadly available. As we are Ofsted registered, parents on Family Tax Credit may be able to get help with fees from the Inland Revenue, in the form of Tax Credits. We also accept Childcare Vouchers.

Award Winning 1:1 Maths and Physics tuition, delivered by qualifi ed 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

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

let your 4-8 year eXplore the fantaStic perform fairytale foreSt Meeting much loved classic fairytale characters as well as new exciting ones along the way…

This term, Perform children in the north London area will not just be having fun acting, singing and dancing each week, they’ll be exploring the magical and wonderfully exciting Fairytale Forest! Meeting many of the well loved characters from the classic Fairytales and countless cool new friends like the Funky Fairy. Don’t miss your chance to capture the magic as our children explore this fabulous fantasy world.

TRAVEL TO FAIRYTALE FOREST THROUGH THE MAGIC OF DRAMA! Perform’s Principal Lucy Quick says ‘Fairytale Forest is the most exciting theme yet. Not only are Fairytales amazingly dramatic stories, but according to child psychologists, when children deal with dramatic situations through drama, it equips them to deal with real-life situations so much better’.

As well as promising ‘the best fun of the week’, Perform specializes in helping children develop the 4 C’s. Confidence, Communication, Co-ordination and Concentration and according to parents

and teacher all over London and the South East ‘you can always tell a Perform child’.

Any interested 4-8 year old can try out the classes by attending a Free Trial Session.

Classes in Crouch End, East Finchley, Exmouth Market, Highgate, Highbury, Islington, Mill Hill, Muswell Hill, North Finchley, Southgate, Stoke Newington, Totteridge Village.

For more information please contact: Contact: Sarah Company: Perform Phone: 020 7255 9134 Email: enquiries@perform.org.uk Website: www.perform.org.uk

N8 NW1 NW8 N16

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

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clubs and classes The Dance of Expression

Don’t forget to say you saw the advert in Families North!

Olé Kids

Alain & Françoise

Chantraine SChool of DanCe tel 020 7435 4247 email info@chantrainedance.co.uk Jennifer_Muswell Hill 2012 70x55 PT.HR.pdf 1 02/12/2012 17:17 www.chantrainedance.co.uk

Imagination takes you everywhere...

Boo you k clas r s

Spanish classes for children and parents

CHANTRAINE

Dance for life! Dance for joy!

A unique holistic approach to all aspects of dance Children from 5 yrs, teenagers, all levels

story

drama

play

6 months – 7 years

Interactive storytelling and dramatic play classes • promoting skilful communication • fostering creativity • building self-confidence

Join us for fun, energy packed and culturally rich Spanish classes where children from 6 months - 10 years old come to speak and learn Spanish in a friendly environment.

jennifer@debutots.co.uk 020 8442 2380 www.debutots.co.uk

Primrose Hill Library Tuesdays 4 pm St Luke’s Community centre (Islington) Thursdays 4pm Quote: ‘Families N’ for a FREE TRIAL 6 MONTHS TO 5 YEAR OLDS Enquire for other age groups or private classes.

Telephone : 020 7386 0376 Mobile: 07734900221 Email : info@olekids.com www.olekids.com

B_Panthakarate.pdf

1

04/05/2012

Beginners Classes: Wednesday 16.30 Hampstead Garden Suburb Thursdays 17.30 Swiss Cottage

020-8445-2588

www.panthakarateclub.co.uk info@panthakarateclub.co.uk

12:46

Local Venues • Nurseries • Schools • Children's Centres • Parties

For classes in Barnet, Bush Hill Park, Cheshunt, Cockfosters, Edmonton, Gordon Hill, Highlands Village, Palmers Green, Potters Bar & Southgate

For classes in Crouch End, Hackney, Highbury, Highgate, Islington, Muswell Hill, North Finchley, Primrose Hill, Stoke Newington & Swiss Cottage

Contact: Lucy 07732 380706 lucy.hough@diddidance.com

Contact: Charlene 07892 711162 charlene.dinger@diddidance.com

 Favourite

for children aged 5 to 14 years

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

    

• Explore • Learn • Inspire • Prepare your child for school!

Click IT! (Barnet) 

Fun educational weekly Computer Classes for 2-5 year olds at your child’s nursery in the Barnet area.

Call or email for more details, ask your Nursery Manager to contact us, or visit www.clickit-kids.co.uk

 

Tel: 07958 476 121 barnet@clickit-kids.co.uk 

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clubs and classes In this section we feature the very best clubs and classes in North 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 CAMDEN ARTS CENTRE Arkwright Road, NW3 6DG ( Finchley Road) 020 7472 5500 camdenartscentre.org Make & Do September 15, 22, 29 Artist-led activities related to the exhibitions. All ages.

Ceramics Techniques Juniors September 21-November 30 10-week course in basic techniques.

8-11 years. Cost £190.

Clay for Infants/Juniors October 29-November 1 Create ceramics with final day exhibition. 5-11 years. Cost £140/£126 early bird.

Sound and Collage for Infants/ Juniors October 29-November 1 Create mix tapes and collaged album artwork with final day exhibition. 5-11 years. Cost £140/£126 early bird.

CREATIVE WIZ KIDS St Peters Church, NW3 4HT 020 7794 6797 creativewizkids.com

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

Contact adverts@familiesnorth.co.uk.

Autumn Term September 11-December 4 Parent toddler class. 1-3 years.

Half Term October 21-25 Art and music. Unaccompanied 3-9 years.

DOODLE DESIGNS At Millfield Arts Centre, Enfield. doodledesigns.co.uk Sunday Doodle Art School Art based skills and ceramics.

4+ years.

Mini Clay Time Thursdays Coiling, moulding and building.

Accompanied pre-school age.

FINE ART 4 KIDS Highgate Wood School Arts College & Union Church Community Centre, Crouch End fineart4kids.com Classes Art classes for 5-12 years, Also teenage art classes and holiday workshops.

LITTLE HANDS DESIGN 67 Belsize Lane, NW3 5AU ( Swiss Cottage)

020 7431 0573 littlehandsdesign.co.uk After School & Saturday Clubs September 9-December 13 Clothes and accessory making/ fashion design, illustrating and sketching. 6-18 years.

Halloween Holiday Course October 21-25, 28-November 1 Create costumes for Halloween. 6-18 years. Cost £225/£120 half-day.

SLANCHOGLED ARTS & CRAFTS 66 Chalk Farm Road, Camden, NW1 8AN 020 7284 4762 artsandcraftscamden.com Half Term October In store holiday and weekly classes.

Book in advance. 6-12 years

Dance CHANTRAINE SCHOOL OF DANCE NW and Central London 020 7435 4247 chantrainedance.co.uk Lessons Dance experience. All levels.

5+ years.

Approved Football Training for Kids Aged 18 Months to 7 Years

Mill Hill, Friern Barnet, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Muswell Hill & Golders Green 020 8201 1084 - jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk Southgate, New Barnet, Enfield 020 7684 7969 - ehanna@littlekickers.co.uk Islington, Hackney, Wapping & Wanstead 020 8958 2808 - amarks@littlekickers.co.uk

www.littlekickers.co.uk

Where Learning’s a Ball 34

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ELIZABETH HARRIS SCHOOL OF DANCE Muswell Hill 07979 915197 elizabethharrisdance.co.uk Classes Weekly and weekend dance classes.

Ballet, tap, modern jazz, theatre craft, freestyle and musical theatre.

3+ years.

JUMP AND DANCE Basement Dance Studio, 400 York Way, N7 9LR jumpanddance.com

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info@jumpanddance.com Toddlers and Tutus From September 7 Cost £50/6 weeks or £80 for 12 weeks. 3-5 years.

Free Trial Session October 12 3-5 years and 5-7 years classes.

LONDON ACADEMY OF GYMNASTICS AND DANCE (LAGAD) 07881 848 884 lagad.co.uk Alexandra Palace September Gymnastics classes. 3½-11 years.

REGAL BALLET 07704 290 479 regalballet.com Ballet Lessons Held in Hampstead, St John’s Wood and Fulham. 18 months to 10 years.

Exam classes and adult lessons also offered. Book a free trial lesson.

Languages CLUB PETIT PIERROT St John’s Wood, Swiss Cottage, Notting Hill and across London 020 7385 5565 clubpetitpierrot.co.uk Fun French Autumn Term From September 14 Parent and toddler groups from 8 months. After school and Saturdays drop-off classes up to 8 years. Private tuition at home. Free trial lesson.

EMPORIUM TEA ROOMS 4-5 Cheapside, Fortis Green, N2 9HP ( East Finchley) 020 8883 8098 emporiumtearooms.co.uk Children’s Fun French From September French lessons with music. Booking required. For pre-school age.

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Anna Fiorentini_19.12.12.pdf

1

19/12/2012

clubs and classes

16:31

25% off* next term’s fees at

Fiorentini Weenies & North London Branch *Limited places. Applies to new students only

The Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School for 4-18 years The North London branch of the Saturday Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School is currently taking applications for the next term and its forthcoming Taster Days.

The school originally opened in Hackney in 2001 and now has over 250 students aged 7-18, many of whom have gone on to secure professional work on TV, Film and in theatre. Examples include Charlie Jones and Belinda Owusu, who played Ben Mitchell and Libby Fox in EastEnders and Tahj Miles who currently plays Simba in the West End’s The Lion King.

As well as providing professional training, the aim of the school is to also provide a safe and supportive environment for

all children to explore their creativity regardless of what career path they eventually choose to follow.

Every week students follow a timetable of drama/film, dance and singing under the guidance of top industry professionals. As well as weekly classes, students are given the opportunity to take part in Voice Idol, Drama and Stars in their Eyes competitions, culminating in a yearly Oscar Night.

The school has recruited some excellent teaching staff including: Mike Burnside (actor in The Bill, Bergerac, the RSC), Mark Short (choreograhper to Tina Turner, Peter Andre, Liberty X), Michael Buffong (director of EastEnders, Holby City, Casualty and Coronation Street), Jacob Murray (former associate artisitc director of the Royal

Exchange Manchester and teacher for National Theatre’s educational Department) and Jay Henry (X-Factor coach and voice coach having worked with Craig David, Mariah Carey and George Michael to name but a few). Celebrities such as Joseph Marcell (Jeffery in Fresh Prince of Bel Air) and Dani Harmer (Tracey Beaker), have also been amongst special guests to give master classes at this prestigious school.

Students get to work with a variety of casting directors, producers and TV directors. They also get the opportunity to be considered for the agency to audition for professional work.

Contact us to book your free no obligation Taster Day. Hurry - Limited Places!

Lamda Qualifications in Drama which carry UCAS points also available.

www.ANNAFIORENTINI.com Tel: 020 7682 1403

Drama, Singing, Dance, Film, Set & Costume Design for ages 4-18 Saturdays in North London & Hackney Tuesdays in Bethnal Green Wednesdays in Docklands

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Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities • Courses mapped to the National Curriculum.

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“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.”

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

35

clubs and classes North LoNdoN russiaN sChooL oF MusiC & CuLture 020 8883 2213 akarpeyev.com

Maths and English tutoring.

5-16 years.

sunday Classes At Jacksons Lane Theatre, N6 5AA Weekly workshops, private lessons and house concerts.

it start-ups Mondays Beginners welcome. 16+ years. Free.

Learning resources & tuition

eXPLore LearNiNG Crouch End 020 3375 4245 Finchley 020 8150 2218 Islington 020 3597 7856 New Barnet 020 3375 4248 Palmers Green 020 3597 7858 West Hampstead 020 7993 1309 explorelearning.co.uk Maths & english tuition Centre All abilities. Open 7 days a week and during school holidays. 5-14 years.

aFter sChooL LearNiNG CeNtre Oakwood Parade, Bramley Road, N14 4HY ( Oakwood) 020 8440 8586 afterschoollearningcentre.com english & Maths tuition Fun learning with tuition in English, Reading, Maths and Science. Key Stage 1, 2, & 3, GCSE, 11+ and 13+ common entrance exams. 4-18 yrs.

eNFieLd isLaNd ViLLaGe CoMMuNity CeNtre 40-42 Island Centre, Way, EN3 6GS (Enfield Lock ) 07508 706 309 eiv.org.uk island Brains Saturdays

Karate and self defence classes.

6+ years.

Leaders are readers 01992 651 300 leadersarereaders.co.uk

Literacy & Numeracy Class Mondays Beginners to intermediate level.

16+ years.

saturday term time school Northwood, Edgware and Enfield.

Reading, Maths and English courses.

3½ -11 years.

the NeW LearNiNG CeNtre West Hampstead 020 7794 0321 calmerparenting.co.uk Calmer, easier, happier Parenting Help for children and teenagers with difficulties at home or at school.

Private family sessions, seminars and courses.

Martial arts

FLeet tutors 0845 644 5452 fleet-tutors.co.uk tuition One-to-one personal tutoring in a number of subjects.

PaNtha Karate CLuB Hampstead Garden Suburb & Swiss Cottage 020 8445 2588 panthakarateclub.co.uk

KuMoN kumon.co.uk/fi nd-a-tutor Maths & english Programmes Individual tutors in Hackney, Barnet, Haringey, Islington, Enfield and Camden.

shotoKaN Karate eNGLaNd shotokan-karate-england.co.uk

Classes Beginners classes Wednesdays & Thursdays. 5-14 years.

eNFieLd Karate CLuB Southbury Leisure Centre, Enfi eld EN1 1YP. edMoNtoN Karate CLuB Edmonton County Lower School, Church Street, N9 9HY. soBeLL Karate CLuB Sobell Leisure Centre, N7 7NY tottenham Karate Club Tottenham Green Leisure Centre, N15 4JA 07957 630463 sobellkarate.com Beginners Classes Parents can train alongside the children.

Music GuiLdhaLL sChooL oF MusiC & draMa Silk Street, EC2Y London 8DT 020 7628 2571 gsmd.ac.uk Junior Guildhall Specialist Saturday school for advance training in music and drama. Scholarships and bursaries available. 4-18 years.

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Hampstead G-S (NW11) Reception to Year 2

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.

Queens Park (NW6) Reception to Year 2

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clubs and classes

Crouch END Art Classes 5-12 yrs Tuesday & Thursday pm

Teenage Art Classes Thursday pm

Highgate Wood School Art Collage & Union Church Community Centre

www.fineart4kids.com

Tel: 0208 2750360 / 07949 463 Emmylou@fineart4kids.com Danny Grant Families ad293 87x62_Layout 1 19/12/2012 13:50 Page 1

Danny Grant

Advert Dramarama Families North 87x62_Layout 1 19/12/2012 13:50 Page

Drama

Street Dance

Soccer School

Action-packed Holiday Football Courses for energetic & enthusiastic players aged 3 & 4, 5 & 6 & 7 to 11.

Non-stop football fun! Develop fitness & football skills! Exciting matches each day!

Specialised term-time weekly football classes for 3 & 4yrs and 5 & 6yrs. Plus weekly football training and league matches for 7 to 12yrs.

Also bookable football and general sports birthday parties.

Call for more details!

info@dgsoccer.co.uk

020 8446 0891 www.dgsoccer.co.uk

Music classes for babies and young children! ® d no blues ! all r hythm an Hampstead & Notting Hill 020 8451 7626 Muswell Hill, Crouch End & Highgate 020 8889 0114 High Barnet, Mill Hill & Whetstone 020 8449 4025 Southgate, Winchmore Hill & East Barnet 020 8360 2730

www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Action songs and rhymes Music and movement Fun with percussion Musical games

Since 1993 thousands of children across the UK have grown up with Monkey Music. Our unique teaching curriculum was written by classically trained musicians, and introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy.

Rock ‘n’ roll - from 3 months Heigh ho – from 12 months Jiggety jig – 2 & 3 year olds Ding dong – 3 & 4 year olds It’s fun, formative and a great way of making friends!

Musical Theatre

Stage School Exciting Holiday Performing Arts Courses

Star in exciting Plays, Street Dance Shows and Musicals!

Plus term-time Drama, Drama Exam & Street Dance classes on Saturdays in Hampstead.

Attention boys & girls aged 3 & 4, 5 & 6, 7-10 & 11-14.

Join our fun-packed term-time and holiday courses.

Drama or Street Dance Parties also bookable!

020 8446 0891

Contact us for more details www.dramarama.co.uk

STORY WRITING WORKSHOPS in libraries across north London, including Highgate and Hornsey Book Now www.inkhead.co.uk 07709 861161 for ages 7 to 12

Courses are being held in July and August - look on our website for details

Our courses are run by writers who are able to lead your children word by word into: creating characters; putting them in a suitable setting; giving them a voice; a problem; a solution and an outcome - and writing their stories.

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

37

clubs and classes Saturday Morning Classes From September Term time classes for Dramatots, Drama, Musical Theatre and Street Dance.

Performing arts ANGEL SHED Studio Theatre, City & Islington College, 444 Camden Road, N7 OSP 07910 822 412 angelshedtheatre.org.uk info@angelshedtheatre.org.uk

Held in Finchley and Hampstead.

3+ years.

Children’s Theatre Thursdays Performing arts sessions. 7-11 years. £100 per term (concessions possible)

Perform

HARINGEY MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE Rectory Gardens, Hornsey, N8 7QN 020 8489 8964 Saturday Morning Music Sing, play an instrument and perform in group instrumental lessons, rock and pop bands, choir and drumming groups for Haringey residents or those attending a Haringey school.

5+ years.

HMDT MUSIC (Hackney Music Development Trust) hmdt.org.uk Saturday Programme At Haggerston 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.

I Can Sing Hampstead At UCS, NW3 6XH. Musical Theatre.

LAUDERDALE SUZUKI GROUP At Lauderdale House, N6 5HG 020 8930 9120 lauderdalesuzuki.org.uk

Youth Theatre Thursdays 11-16 years. Cost £100 per term (concessions possible) Young People Training given to volunteers in theatre practice. 16+.

September 11-December 4 Violin tuition for young children using the Suzuki method. 2+ years.

THE ANNA FIORENTINI THEATRE & FILM SCHOOL North London, Hackney, Bethnal Green & Docklands 020 7682 1403 annafiorentini.com

WIGMORE HALL 36 Wigmore Street, W1U 2BP ( Bond Street) 020 7935 2141 wigmore-hall.org.uk

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.

Ignition October 30-31 Create new music, compose soundtracks for film clips and play with professional musicians. 11-16 years. Cost £40.

DRAMARAMA STAGE SCHOOL Hampstead NW3 020 8446 0891 dramarama.co.uk

w No

b

k oo

Half Term Courses Drama, Musical Theatre and Street dance courses during the holidays.

Dates and venues to be confirmed on website.

HARINGEY SHED Haringey Irish Centre, Pretoria Road, Tottenham, N17 8DX 020 8801 7209 haringeyshed.org Autumn Term September-December Children’s Theatre 7-10 years.

Youth Theatre 11-16 years.

Shed Band 9-17 years.

Shed Moves Dance Group 7-16 years.

Big Noise Community Choir 7-15 years.

Cost £50 per term for theatre groups and Shed Band. Choir and dance groups are free.

HOXTON HALL / ROSE BOWL CENTRE 130 Hoxton Street, N1 6SH (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

ing

Trapeze School At Alexandra Palace from September Call For ages 07881 848 884 and all levels. or visit our website Age 31/2 to 11 yrs www.lagad.co.uk

The Original British Baby Signing Programme Award winning classes that help babies to communicate before speech

For children from 2 ½ years old, Teenagers and Adults On Monday, Wednesday or Friday afternoons At the Primrose Hill community centre Hopkinson’s Place NW1

0797 345 1603

circusglory@gmail.com

For more information and classes, please contact: ♪ Vesna 020 7639 8038 vesna@singandsign.co.uk in N1, NW1, NW3, SW3, W8 ♪ Grace 07881 553708 gracesabri@singandsign.co.uk in N6, N8, N10, N12 ♪ Versha 07790 955576 versha@singandsign.co.uk in N3, NW2, NW4, NW6, NW7, NW10, NW11

Circus Glory also organises workshops for birthday parties or other events.

♪ Nikki & Lynsey 07582 900418 nikkilynseysingandsign@gmail.com in N14, N20, N21, EN4, EN5 & EN6 Terms start in September, January and April www.singandsign.co.uk

38

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clubs and classes younger participants and ‘Hipnotic’ sessions for over 14 years.

PerForM Crouch End, East Finchley, Exmouth Market, Highgate, Highbury, Islington, Mill Hill, North Finchley, Southgate, Stoke Newington, Totteridge 0845 400 4000 perform.org.uk Fairytale Forest Autumn Term Acting, singing and dancing workshops to develop confidence, communication, co-ordination and concentration. Meet characters from classic fairytales and new ones like Funky Fairy. Free trial session. 4-8 yrs. rapunzel October 28-30 Classic fairytale. Primrose Hill Community Centre NW1 8TN & Friends Meeting House NW3 1DR. 4-8 years. Cost £93.

PLatiNuM PerForMiNG arts At Millfi eld Arts Centre, N18 1PJ platinumperformingarts.co.uk autumn term From September 14 Musical Theatre, ballet, tap, hip hop and more. 13-19 years.

raZZaMataZ theatre sChooLs razzamataz.co.uk

razz Minis 4-5 years.

Juniors 6-8 years. intermediates 9-11 years. seniors 12-18 years.

Combined singing, drama and dance classes at St Paul’s Primary School, NW3 3DS and Ashmole Academy, Cecil Road, N14 5RJ. Hampstead contact Sam 020 8150 7198 hampstead@razzamataz.co.uk Barnet contact Michael 01923 805846 barnet@razzamataz.co.uk

staGeCoaCh Highgate 020 7272 8108 Stoke Newington 020 7354 0367 stagecoach.co.uk theatre Workshops Dance, drama and singing. After school, weekends and holiday workshops.

360 arts 90 Kingsway, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, N12 OEX 07580 846 993 360arts.co.uk sunday Classes Acting, singing and dancing at the new Performing Arts School.

Tiny Turns 3-5 years Star Turns 5-7 years Performing Arts 7+ years Singing 7+ years.

Sports CirCus GLory Primrose Hill Community Centre, 29 Hopkinson’s Place, NW1 8TN 0797 345 1603 trapeze school October 31 Halloween workshop. 10am-3pm.

Cost £50/day.

daNNy GraNt soCCer sChooL North & North West London 020 8446 0891 dgsoccer.co.uk

Football Classes Weekly and weekend classes during term time. 3-6 years.

Football Clubs Weekly training and weekend matches. 7-12 years. half term Football Courses Dates and venue to be confirmed on website. 5-11 years.

eNJoy – a – BaLL Mill Hill, Finchley, Golders Green, Muswell Hill 08452 2626 94 enjoy-a-ball.com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com enjoy-a-ball Classes Sports coaching. Trial lessons available. 3-9 years.

Physi-ball Classes Ball skills for active little ones.

18 months-2½ years.

Enfield Karate Club

haCKNey City teNNis CLuBs Clissold Park, Hackney Downs, London Fields, Springhill, Millfields & Aske Gardens.

020 7241 2136 hackneycitytennisclubs.co.uk Junior Club Experienced young players capable of playing matches. Not suitable for beginners. The club offers accessible and affordable tennis for all members.

Lee VaLLey athLetiCs CeNtre Meridian Way, Edmonton, N9 OAR 020 8344 7230 visitleevalleypark.org.uk Cyclo-Cross race September 22 Gunpowder Park, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 3GP. Take part or watch and learn about cyclo-cross racing.

Booking required. Cost £1-£12. autumn duathlon September 29

We are a pottery painting and craft studio offering a range of activities such as pottery classes, enamelling, glass fusing, t-shirt design and bear making for kids of any age and adults in a relaxing and bright studio based in Mill Hill.

Our Summer workshops programme runs from July to August for kids aged 5 and up.

We also offer a delicious range of coffees, teas, milkshakes and refreshments for you to enjoy.

143 Dollis Road, Mill Hill, London, NW7 1JX Tel: 020 8371 6709 info@firedtreasures.co.uk

weekday and weekend dance classes in Muswell Hill enquiries: 07979 915197 www.elizabethharrisdance.co.uk

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

39

clubs and classes Lee Valley Athletics Centre, N9 OAR. 2.5k run/ 5k cycle/ 2k run. Booking required. 14+ years. Cost £13-£16.

Minithon October 6 Online booking required. School Years 3-7. Cost £10.

Children’s Fun run October 13 Booking required online. Free. star track October 28-November 1 Holiday camp in athletic skills.

6-12 years.

yoGaBuGs 0845 863 0688 yogabugs.com alison@YogaBugs.com autumn term September 1-December 15 Special moves inspired by yoga.

Walking – 7 years. Online booking.

Theatre workshops aLMeida theatre Almeida Street, Islington, N1 1TA ( Highbury & Islington) 020 7359 4404 almeida.co.uk academy October 12-December 21

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Saturday workshops to build confidence, creativity and social skills. 5-14 years. Cost £150 per term/£400 full year. young Friends Develop skills and knowledge of theatre with creative projects.

15-21 years. Annual cost £5.

arts dePot Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, N12 OGA ( West Finchley & Woodside Park) artsdepot.co.uk Mini Mozart minimozart.com September 4-December 18 Music class with pianists, parachutes and bubbles! Cost £120 for 15 weeks. 0-3 years. diddi dance diddidance.com 07892 711162 September 9-December 16 Dance classes with games, exercise, bells, hoops and dance ribbons. 2-4 years. Cost £24 for 4 weeks/£45 for 8 weeks.

Little Lions Music & Movement Group September 12-December 12 Music and movement. 6 months to 3 years. Cost £84 for 12 weeks/£37.50 for 5 classes/£8 per drop-in class subject to availability.

familiesnorth.co.uk

La La Land Kids 07841 134 686 lalalandkids.com September 13-December 13 Music, tempo and rhythm. Under 4 years. Cost £5 per session.

isLiNGtoN CoMMuNity theatre c/o Islington Central Library, 2 Fieldway Crescent, N5 1PF 020 7609 9651 islingtoncommunitytheatre.com

ChiCKeNshed theatre Chase Side, Southgate, N14 4PE ( Cockfosters/Oakwood) 020 8292 9222 chickenshed.org.uk

Membership A charity organisation offering various theatre projects for young people of all ages. Recruitment usually takes place through referrals from schools and youth workers or complete the online form to attend taster workshops in September.

saturday shed September 14-November 2 Performance skills workshops.

5-12 years. Cost £6 per session/ £36 for 8 sessions. autumn shed October 28-November 1 All day workshops with drama, dance, music and story making.

5-12 years. Cost £130.

the CoCKPit Gateforth Street, Marylebone, NW8 8EH 020 7258 2925 thecockpit.org.uk dream arts dreamarts.org.uk 020 7266 8262 October 7-November 25 Sunday workshops in dance, acting and singing activities. 8-19 years.

Cost Membership £10 per term + £1.50 per session.

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JaCKsoNs LaNe 269A Archway Road, N6 5AA ( Highgate) 020 8341 4421 jacksonslane.org.uk highgate youth theatre September 7-November 23 9-16 years. Cost £90 per term. youth Circus September 8-December 15 Circus skills. 10-16 years. Cost £168 per term.

Pre Primary Ballet From September 9 3+ years. Cost £117 per term. highgate Ballet tap September 9-December 2 Dance classes. Cost £100 or £111.

Musical theatre September 9-December 2 Cost £120.

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Venues in Camden, Crouch End, Enfield, Finchley, Hendon, Winchmore Hill and more

Venues in Camden Crouch End Enfield Finchley Hendon Winchmore Hill and more

TWO IAL TR E W EK LABLE I AVA

T R A T S T N CONFIDE A GIVE YOUR CHILD

020 8447 4530

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JIGSAW WEEKEND PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOLS

Give Your Child A Head Start!

A A New New School School Year Year A New Class A New Class A A New New Start Start

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•Confidence & self-belief •Good study habits •Improved academic results

Reading, Maths & English Courses: For ages 3½ - 11 including 11+, 7+, 5+ & 4+ preparation Nursery – Year 6 •Edgware HA8 8DE •Northwood HA6 2HT •Enfield N21 1PP

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

41

clubs and classes

Mini Mozart 07958 970 073 minimozart.com From September 12 Fun music class for babies and toddlers.

MSC ACTIVITY COURSES FOR CHILDREN AGED SCHOOL YEAR 1 to YEAR 9 russian school September 15-December 15 Russian music and culture. Cost from £8 per hour. rucksack Music September 18-December 18 Drop-in sessions. 0-4 years.

Cost £4.50. sing and sign September 20-December 6 For babies. Cost £85 per term.

LauderdaLe house Highgate Hill, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG ( Archway) 020 8348 8716 lauderdalehouse.co.uk

LittLe aNGeL theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, N1 2DN ( Angel or Highbury Islington) 020 7226 1787 littleangeltheatre.com Crafty Kids September 28-November 23 Creative fun and puppet making on Saturday mornings. Accompanied 2-5 years. Cost £125. saturday Puppet Club September 28-December 7 Make puppets and develop a short play for performance. 5-11 years.

Cost £95. youth theatre September 28-December 7 Held at the Rose Bowl Centre. Work

MALLINSON SPORTS CENTRE 2013 ACTIVITY COURSES

drawing & Painting September 12-December 12 Every Thursday. Book in advance.

5-11 years. Cost term £85.

triCyCLe theatre 269 Kilburn High Road, NW6 7JR ( Kilburn) 020 7328 1000 tricycle.co.uk tricycle young Company Autumn Term Workshops, activities and get together to create new productions for the main stage in an annual festival of work by young theatre makers. 11-25 years. Free to join.

Park saturdays September 7-October 26 November 2-December 21 Drama classes with final performances. Groups 4-12 years.

Cost £185 or £295 depending on age.

Park Mornings From September 11 Dramatic playtime for parents and babies under 2 years. £15 per session.

Toddlers & babies

PLeasaNCe theatre Carpenters Mews, North Road, N7 9EF ( Caledonian Road) 020 7609 1800 pleasance.co.uk

CaXtoN house CoMMuNity CeNtre 129 St John’s Way, Islington, London N19 3RQ ( Archway) 020 7263 3151 caxtonhouse.org

Pleasance Flock drama training September 26-December 12 Performance skills with training in devising and playwriting. 11-17 years. Cost £150 per term/£15 for a taster session.

under Fives Toy library and drop-in art activities for parents/carers and babies, toddlers and pre-school children.

MALLINSON SPORTS CENTRE 2013 ACTIVITY COURSES

MSC

Panda Mandarin September 11-December 4 Chinese for children. Cost £12 per session.

ParK theatre Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, N4 3JP 020 7870 6876 parktheatre.co.uk

MSC ACTIVITY COURSES FOR CHILDREN AGED SCHOOL YEAR 1 to YEAR 9

street dance From September 10 8+ years. Cost £80 per term.

rucksack Music rucksackmusic.co.uk September 12-December 12 Drop-in music classes. Under 3s.

Cost £4 per session.

end of term show. 7-11 years. Cost £150 per term/£15 taster session.

MSC

Telephone number: 020 8342 7272 Crazee Kids September 10-December 3 September 14-December 7 3-5 years. Cost £120 per term.

with professional puppet makers and directors towards creating a performance. 11-17 years. Cost £95.

Telephone number: 020 8342 7272

Address: Mallinson Sports Centre, Bishopswood Road, Highgate, London, N6 4NY Email: msc@highgateschool.org.uk

suzuki Violin 020 8930 9120 lauderdalesuzuki.org.uk September 11-December 4 Violin tuition for young children.

From 2+ years.

Address: Mallinson Sports Centre, Bishopswood Road, Highgate, London, N6 4NY Email: msc@highgateschool.org.uk

diddi dance September 10-December 17 Cost £24/£45 for 4weeks/8weeks.

Pleasance Magpies drama Group September 28-December 14 Performance skills workshops and

deButots Finchley N12 8HG Hampstead NW3 1DR Muswell Hill N10 1PP

MALLINSON SPORTS CENTRE 2013 ACTIVITY COURSES

Address: Mallinson Sports Centre, Bishopswood Road, Highgate, London, N6 4NY Email: msc@highgateschool.org.uk

Telephone number: 020 8342 7272

MSC MSC ACTIVITY COURSES FOR CHILDREN AGED SCHOOL YEAR 1 to YEAR 9 OUTINGS t TREASURE HUNT t COOKING

MSC ACTIVITY COURSES FOR CHILDREN AGED SCHOOL YEAR 1 to YEAR 9

NINTENDO WII t DRAMA SESSIONS t TRIPS

SPANISH LESSONS t ROLLER SKATING

SPORTS ACTIVITIES AND FITNESS SESSIONS AGE APPROPRIATE CREATIVE ARTS & CRAFTS

MSC

HOME COOKED MEALS FRESHLY PREPARED EVERY DAY!

WE PROVIDE ACTIVE & ENTERTAINING CHILDCARE FOR CHILDREN FROM THE AGES OF 5 - 14 YEARS OLD THROUGHOUT EVERY SCHOOL HOLIDAY

SO GIVE US A CALL WE OPEN FROM 8AM – 6.30PM

Telephone number: 020 8342 7272

Tottenham Community Sports Centre 701 – 703 High Road N17 8AD

Address: Mallinson Sports Centre, Bishopswood Road, Highgate, London, N6 4NY Email: msc@highgateschool.org.uk

MALLINSON SPORTS CENTRE 2013 ACTIVITY COURSES T 020 8616 2925 M 07966506043

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clubs and classes

hArts c a o c e r t a e e Th Stag

lling Enro !

NOW

The original, largest and STILL the best network of part-time performing arts schools in the world.

Nurturing and developing young peoples potential through dance, drama and singing.

For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

Stagecoach Highgate 020 7272 8108 highgate@stagecoach.co.uk Stagecoach Stoke Newington 020 7354 0367 stokenewington@stagecoach.co.uk

Acting | Singing | Dancing for 3-18+yrs

HAVE FUN | MAKE FRIENDS | BUILD CONFIDENCE | DISCOVER | CREATE | PERFORM | SELF EXPRESSION | OVERCOME SHYNESS |

90 Kingsway, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, London, N12 OEX

Tel: 07580 846 993

In association with Simone Lahbib

ACT NOW! ANCE!

!D SING

www.facebook.com/360ArtsLondon Twitter@360ArtsLondon

In affiliation with Young Talent Agency

BOOK NOW! VIA OUR WEBSITE

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

43

clubs and classes Swiss Cottage NW3 3NT 020 8442 2380 debutots.co.uk Baby Story Play From September 16 Explore the magic of stories, sounds and words. 6 months2 years.

Early Years Drama From September 16 Children are guided through unique stories with imagination, sights, sounds and characters.

Free trial. 2-4 years.

After School Class From September 16 Interactive storytelling. 4-7 years.

Half Term Class October 28-November 1

DIDDI DANCE diddidance.com Funky Pre-school Dance Classes Using music, ribbons, hoops and more. For classes in Barnet, Bush Hill Park, Cheshunt, Cockfosters, Edmonton, Gordon Hill, Highlands Village, Palmers Green, Potters Bar & South Gate contact Lucy 07732 380706.

For classes in Crouch End, Hackney, Highbury, Highgate, Islington, Muswell Hill, North Finchley, Primrose Hill, Stoke Newington & Swiss Cottage contact Charlene 07892 711162.

GYMBOREE Islington N5 2DJ Hampstead NW3 6LU gymboree-uk.com hampstead@gymboree-uk.com islington@gymboree-uk.com

From September Group play, music classes, art and sensory baby play. Under 5 years.

JO JINGLES Enfield & Watford jojingles.com Classes Music, singing and movement.

3 months-5 years.

KIDDIKICKS N8, NW1, NW8, N16 020 7937 7965 kiddikicks.co.uk Football Skills, fun and exercise.

Under 5 years.

LITTLE KICKERS littlekickers.co.uk Classes Fun football training for young children held all year round.

18 months-7 years.

Contact: 020 8201 1084 for Mill Hill, Friern, Barnet, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Muswell Hill, Golders Green

Contact 020 7684 7969 for Southgate, New Barnet, Enfield Contact 020 8958 2808 for Islington & Hackney

MINI MOZART minimozart.com Autumn Term September-December Babies and toddler classes with piano accompanist, percussion instruments, exercises with parachutes and bubbles!

Locations Arts Depot N12, Lauderdale House N6, Crouch End N8, Hampstead NW3, Highgate N6, Islington N1, Muswell Hill N10, Primrose Hill NW1, St Johns Wood NW8, Swiss Cottage NW3, St Martin-in-the-Fields WC2, Winchmore Hill N21, Maida Vale W9, Notting Hill W11.

MONKEY MUSIC Hampstead & Notting Hill 020 8451 7626 High Barnet, Mill Hill & Whetstone 020 8449 4025 Muswell Hill, Crouch End & Highgate 020 8889 0114 Southgate, Winchmore Hill & East Barnet 020 8360 2730 monkeymusic.co.uk Music Classes 3 months-4 years.

RUGBY TOTS Crouch End N8 Muswell Hill N10 rugbytots.co.uk Autumn Term Rugby specific skills to aid development in young children.

Under 5 years.

TUMBLE TOTS East Barnet EN4 8JB High Barnet EN5 2UR Potters Bar EN6 3PB Bushhill Park & Winchmore Hill tumbletots.com Classes Co-ordination, climbing and physical skills with fun and excitement. Under 5 years.

Don’t forget to say you saw the advert in Families North!

B TOOO DA K Y

AY SATURD AND SUNDAY S G MORNIN

A ‘TERM-TIME’ CLUB EXCLUSIVELY FOR CHILDREN TO MASTER SNOWSPORTS! SKI AND SNOWBOARD LESSONS TAUGHT WEEKLY, REWARDED WITH CERTIFICATES THROUGH THE “SNOWLIFE AWARDS.” To book or enquire please email salesmk@snozoneuk.com for Milton Keynes or salescas@snozoneuk.com for Castleford.

WWW.SNOZONEUK.COM

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clubs and classes

WEEKLY

LOCAL

CLASSES

classes held...

with Water Babies, the UK’s leading baby swim school

3 Fully qualified, world class instructors 3 Award-winning programme

in Enfield, Tottenham, Haringey, Friern Barnet Barnet and Finchley.

DANCE

RAD ballet ISTD modern ISTD tap

...we’re all doing it!

teaches babies from birth

3 Teaching you to teach your baby to swim

6

3 Saving lives through water confidence and safety skills

at King’s College NW3 7ST and now Mill Hill NW7 2AJ

To join in the fun call

020 3617 8823

www.jumpup.co.uk

waterbabies.co.uk

Untitled-2 1 HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BY BBC & DAILY TELEGRAPH

erna @ jumpup.co.uk | 07946 581933 |

To enrol or to book a FREE TRIAL call 07572929168 or email info@theyoungpeoplestheatre.co.uk

FREE21/02/2013 11:26 TRIAL LESSON

Kingsgate Community Centre

LES THE YOUNG PEOP ANY

Fun French Lessons for Children Est 1993

107 Kingsgate Road, London, NW6 2JH

TH EATR E CO MP

E HAVE FUN GAIN CONFIDENC * MAKE FRIENDS ITY * TIV EA CR RK SPA

hool

Performing Ar ts Sc

g people 2 - 16 years for children and youn

old

A wonderful headstart in French

www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

020 7385 5565 - admincpp@btconnect.com

www.theyo

.co.uk ungpeoplestheatre

MONDAYS DRAMA FUNHOUSE (ages 4 - 6) 4:25 - 5:15pm

WEDNESDAYS MAMAS AND BUBBAS (ages 2 - 4) 11:30 - 12:30

DRAMA JUNIORS (ages 7 - 11) 5:15 - 6:15pm

STREET DANCE (younger) (ages 5 - 8) 4:30 - 5:30pm

YOUNG ACTORS GROUP (ages 12 - 16) 6:15 - 7:15pm

STREET DANCE (older) (ages 9-13) 5:30 - 6:30pm

Join in the adventures through story, rhyme and yoga inspired moves.

www.YogaBugs.com Alison@YogaBugs.com Alison@Y Alison@Yoga Bugs Tel. 0845 863 0688 To advertise in Families North London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familiesnorth.co.uk

45

parties

partieS Welcome to our parties page for all you need to have a great party. To advertise in this section call 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familiesnorth.co.uk. pippin puppets quark.qxp_Layout 1 14/

www.pippinpuppets.com Tiptop puppet shows

Don’t forget to say you saw the advert in Families North!

Kate - 020 8348 4055

SALLY SUNSHINE FACE PAINTING FUN !

07837 713 699

WE DON’T JUST CREATE PARTIES, WE MAKE

MEMORIES!

SWEET ETC ...

• Bespoke sweet tables for all occasions • Choice of sweets and colour co-ordinated

Contact Tara:

07961 350822

020 8542 1480

bOOPARTIES.COM 46

tara@nzcomputing.com www.sweetetc.co.uk familiesnorth.co.uk

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parties

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.

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

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

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

47

parties

10070_DD QUARTER PG AD_ROMFORD_ROMFORD 13/08/2013 11:05 Page 1

Cooking Parties

Fun, cooking parties For boys and girls aged 4-16 years Cooking classes

Give your child the best party ever whisking, baking, giggling, rolling, making, laughing, turning, licking, joking

A great way to learn while having fun!

020 8876 9912

The Ultimate Indoor Adventure Park

Enjoy Kidspace from as little as £0.25 a day

Call for details: email: info@cookiecrumbles.co.uk www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk

Don’t forget to say you saw the advert in Families North!

Must be completed online Buy an annual pass and spread the cost of your membership over the year* Pay by direct debit and enjoy Kidspace from as little as: £7.50p/m for under 3s £7.91p/m for over 3s £1.66p/m for additional adults

Members' benefits include 15% off parties, reduced 'Big Event' admission, discount vouchers, unlimited visits!

You can also book your day tickets in advance online, saving you up to 15% off the entry fee** T&C’s apply for all discounts

For more info visit our website

www.kidspaceadventures.com * Must be completed online ** Excluding February and October Half Term

Kidspace Romford The Brewery, Waterloo Road, Romford, Essex RM1 1AU

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North London

Your Guide to North London Family Entertainment!

Places To Go Cinema

Theatre

Further Afield

Concerts

Festivals

Exhibitions

Summer Days Out

Special Events

Museums

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

places to go cinema • museums • exhibitions

Places To Go

Your guide to North 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@familiesnorth.co.uk.

Cinema BARBICAN CENTRE Cinema 2 in Beech Street, Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS ( Barbican) 020 7638 4141 barbican.org.uk/film Sherlock Hound (U) September 21 Canine characters. Cost £2.

A Danger Mouse Mix (U) September 28 A selection of episodes from the world’s greatest secret agent. £2.

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. £1/members, £3/nonmembers. 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.

PHOENIX CINEMA 52 High Road, N2 9PJ ( East Finchley) 020 8444 6789 phoenixcinema.co.uk Kids Club Every Saturday at 11am. Free activity (5-10 years) followed by a film. Cost £2.

Toddler Time Tuesdays 11am Films specially selected for young children. Free activities. 2-4 years.

Cost £3 per child with one adult.

Despicable Me 2 2D September 21 LIAF: Amazing Animations September 28

50

Fantasia October 6 Animation set to classical music.

RIO CINEMA 107 Kingsland High Street, E8 6LJ (Dalston Kingsland ) 020 7241 9410 riocinema.org.uk Saturday Morning Picture Club Film screenings for children. Cost £3.50/£2.50.

Play Centre Matinees September 17, 24, October 1 Cost £3.50/£2.50.

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 around areas not normally open to the public.

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

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

BRITISH MUSEUM Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG ( Tottenham Ct Road) 020 7323 8000 britishmuseum.org Life & Death Pompeii and Herculaneum Until September 29 Popular exhibition. Entry cost £15/ accompanied children under 16 years free.

familiesnorth.co.uk

020 3108 2052 ucl.ac.uk Explore Zoology September 28 How sharp is a shark’s tooth? Handson activities to find the answers. Free drop-in family event.

Beyond El Dorado: power and gold in ancient Colombia From October 17 Exhibition on ancient cultures showing gold working techniques and a display of objects excavated in the early 20th century. Cost £10 (concessions available).

Photography Mystery Trails October 26 Trails through the galleries. Photo ID deposit required. 5+ years.

Make Your Own Secret Code October 27 Create a digital seal using Photoshop.

7+ years. Free.

Myths, Music and Mountains October 28-November 1 Drop-in events linked to the exhibition on gold in ancient Columbia.

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

GRANT MUSEUM OF ZOOLOGY Rockefeller Building, University College London, 21 University Street, WC1E 6DE ( Euston Square)

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Life under the Waves October 19, 20 Discover the amazing animal life that makes the sea their home. Free dropin family event.

Festival of Geology November 2 Handle fossils, minerals and rocks and all things geological. All ages.

Free.

Hungry Hungry Herbivores October 28-November 2 Specimen based activities and discover which animal is the hungriest herbivore! Free drop-in.

HANDEL HOUSE MUSEUM 25 Brook Street, W1K 4HB ( Bond Street) 020 7495 1685 handelhouse.org Open House September 21, 22 Free admission as part of the Open House London weekend. Baroque music performed throughout the day. Also a rare opportunity to visit Jimi Hendrix’s flat at 23 Brook Street where he lived between 1968 and 1969. Free tours but advance booking required.

Pop Up Handel House October 13 Design a pop-up Georgian House, dress up in Georgian costumes and take part in family trails. Drop-in events. 7-12 years. Cost £6/children free.

HUNTERIAN MUSEUM The Royal College of Surgeons, 35-43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, WC2A 3PE ( Holborn) 020 7869 6560 rcseng.ac.uk

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museums • exhibitions places to go open house September 21 View rarely seen paintings and special displays. Part of the London Open House events. the Big draw October 5 Drawing activities and demonstrations. Materials provided.

Drop-in event. Free.

Long in the tooth!

October 29 (11-14 years) October 31 (6-10 years) All about skulls and teeth with special handling workshops. Booking essential. Cost £2/adults and children require a ticket. disease detective November 1 Work with real pathologists and learn how doctors identify disease and treatment for common illnesses.

Booking essential. 10+ years.

iMPeriaL War MuseuM Lambeth Road, SE1 6HZ ( Waterloo) 020 7416 5000 iwm.org.uk horrible histories: spies Undercover disguises and codes in an interactive family exhibition. 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

from illustrator Martin Brown. Book signing after the event. Event cost £8 + admission.

JeWish MuseuM 129-131 Albert Street, NW1 7NB ( Camden Town) 020 7284 7384 jewishmuseum.org.uk Jonah and the Wailers October 20 Musical story adventure. 4-8 years. Cost £15 adult + child/£10 additional child.

LoNdoN traNsPort MuseuM Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB ( Covent Garden) 020 7565 7299 ltmuseum.co.uk Annual admission £15/free entry for children under 16 years. storytime October 28-November 3 Stories about the ordinary and famous people who made the underground move. 3-7 years.

Make & take October 28-November 3 Create felt finger puppets of London Transport’s most important people.

4-12 years.

Poster art 150 Until October 27 Exhibition of Underground posters.

THE PERFECT HALF TERM TREAT! FROM THE CREATORS OF THE GRUFFALO

MuseuM oF LoNdoN 150 London Wall, EC2Y 5HN ( St Paul’s) 020 7001 9844 museumoflondon.org.uk

holiday activities Story telling sessions on selected dates during the school holidays.

5 years and under. Art workshops for 5-11 years.

Museum explored September 15, 22, 29 October 6, 13, 20, 27 November 10 Explore the galleries with fun handson activities. 5+ years.

NatioNaL Portrait GaLLery St Martin’s Place, WC2H OHE ( Leicester Square) 020 7306 0055 npg.org.uk

the Cheapside hoard – London’s Lost Jewels October 11 onwards Exhibition of jewels and gemstones discovered in 1912 buried in a cellar.

Cost £9/£7. a royal arrival 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.

NatioNaL GaLLery Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN ( Charing Cross) 020 7747 2885 nationalgallery.org.uk Magic Carpet storytelling sessions September 15, 22, 29, October 6, 13, 20, 27, November 3, 10 The magic carpet lands in front of a different painting on each day.

5 years and under. Free.

Family art Workshop September 14, October 19, November 16 Artists-led workshops using different materials from clay modeling to animation. holiday Workshops Storytelling, tours and drawing sessions inspired by the exhibitions and displays. Free. story telling For Families Monthly story telling sessions with hands-on activities. 3+ years.

Family resources Free trails to help families look, sketch or explore the galleries.

NaturaL history MuseuM Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD ( South Kensington) 020 7942 5000 nhm.ac.uk hedgerow harvest October 6 Activities in celebration of hedgerows

A whole farmyard of fun!

Based on the best-selling book by

Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler

Live

On Stage

Based on the award-winning picture book by

Julia Donaldson & Lydia Monks A high energy treat ★★★★ The Sunday Times SAT 26 - THU 31 OCTOBER NORTH FINCHLEY

BOOK NOW 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk

watch a sneak preview online at www.roomonthebroomlive.co.uk

LI

Stave on ge

Thu 10 - Sun 13 October 2013 Box office: 020 8369 5454 Book online: www.artsdepot.co.uk

www.whattheladybirdheard live.co.uk

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

51

places to go museums • exhibitions • theatres • concerts – food, craft and meet a hedgehog.

Free. dino snores October 12 Spend the night in the museum with torch lit tours and live shows.

7-11 years. Cost £49.

Wildlife Garden Until October 31 Demonstration of wildlife conservation in the inner city. Free.

airfix – Making history Exhibition on the history of Airfix models with a display of original Box Art and popular models from the 50s, 60s and 70s. Free.

sCieNCe MuseuM Exhibition Rd, SW7 2DD ( South Kensington) 0870 870 4868 sciencemuseum.org.uk

Wallace 100: Wallace discovery trail October & November Family trails and talks about the great naturalist, Alfred Russel Wallace. Free.

Launchpad Gallery Hands-on gallery with exhibits, shows and demonstrations. 8-14 years.

royaL air ForCe MuseuM Grahame Park Way, NW9 5LL ( Colindale) 020 8205 2266 rafmuseum.org.uk

Legend of apollo 4D simulation theatre – see, hear, feel and smell! Charges apply.

Witch Weekend October 26-27 Make a witch with flying broomstick and cat. Free.

Big draw Week October 28-November 1 Drawing activities based on the aircraft collection. Free.

Lest We Forget November 9, 10 Decorate a petal to add to the poppy collage. Free activity. remembrance Ceremony November 11 The public are invited to attend a simple ceremony of Remembrance.

Bubbles, bubbles, bubbles!

Interactive show with bubbles of all sizes.

tate BritaiN Millbank, SW1P 4RG ( Pimlico) 020 7887 8888 tate.org.uk/Britain Lowry and the Painting of Modern Life Until October 20 Fascinating exhibition on landscapes by the British painter L.S. Lowry. Cost £15/under 12 years free.

V&a MuseuM Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL ( South Kensington) 020 7942 2000 vam.ac.uk

020 8369 5454 artsdepot.co.uk aliens Love underpants September 28, 29 Hilarious tale based on the children’s book. Craft workshops at extra cost. 3+ years.

Cost £13.

What the Ladybird heard October 10-13 Farmyard adventure, live music and puppets. 3+ years. Cost £13. tube October 18, 19 Interactive show for babies and toddlers. 6 months-2 years.

Cost £7.

Just a Bit of Paper October 20 Interactive show all about paper.

3-5 years. Cost £8 – includes entry to the Big Draw Family Day. the Big draw Family day October 20 Explore what the future might look like, with games, workshops and prizes. 3+ years. Cost £2. room on the Broom October 26-31 A stormy wind blows the witch’s hat and wand away. Dress up as little witches, monsters or ghouls!

Special craft workshops at extra cost. 3+ years. Cost £13.

Jazz all stars October 27 Popular songs and music with jazz musicians. 5-11 years. Cost £8.50.

Pearls September 21 onwards The history of pearls from the Roman Empire to the present and a display of natural and cultured pearls. £10. digital design Weekend September 21, 22 Demonstrations and interactive installations. Free drop-in.

V&a MuseuM oF ChiLdhood Cambridge Heath Road, E2 9PA ( Bethnal Green) 020 8983 5200 museumofchildhood.org.uk Free admission. romp and roll September 7, 14, 28, October 5, 12, 19.

Dance sessions. 2-5 years. Pay on the day. Cost £3 per child. 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.

Theatres & Concerts arts dePot Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, N12 OGA ( West Finchley & Woodside Park)

Open everyday 10:00 - 17:00

leFa..rm.s b b u b le b b u H rk Lee Valley Pa spooky times at 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

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theatres • concerts places to go spin Cycle November 2 Street theatre. Location to be confirmed. Free. yummm!

November 3 Messy meal times. Two shows plus activities for 18 months-4 years & 4+ years. Cost £7.

Mazymeg & the honey Bees November 10 Can Mazymeg fi nd the honey bees?

4+ years. Cost £7.

BaCh to BaBy CoNCerts 07814 509 280 bachtobaby.com Concerts September 6, 23, 26, 27 October 2, 4, 8, 18, 21, 24, 30 November 1, 5, 15 Classical concerts designed for babies to enjoy. Held in Camden, Hampstead, Highgate, Islington and St John’s Wood.

BLooMsBury theatre 15 Gordon Street, London WC1H OAH ( Euston) 020 3108 1000 thebloomsbury.com horrible science October 8-12 A crazy world with beastly bacteria, vicious volts and foul fluids! Cost £19.50/£14.50/family £64.

ChiCKeNshed theatre Chase Side, Southgate, N14 4PE ( Cockfosters/Oakwood) 020 8292 9222 chickenshed.org.uk tales from the shed September 14, 20, 21 October 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, 31 November 1, 2, 8, 9 Interactive theatre shows with puppets and music. 0-7 years.

Cost £6/under 6 months free. open house London September 21 Guided tours and a possible chance to watch a rehearsal. Free.

Professor hallux alive!

September 28-October 5 Professor Hallux has to check through every component of the body to find out what has gone wrong. 7-11 years. Cost £6. the Government inspector October 11-25 A government inspector is sent to investigate a town with moneygrabbing officials. A comedy of manners and errors. 10+ years.

Cost £10.

duGdaLe CeNtre Thomas Hardy House, 39 London Road, Enfield EN2 6DS (Train Enfield Town) 020 8807 6680 dugdalecentre.co.uk

the Pirate squad and the search for Mermaid’s Lagoon November 1, 2 Join Captain Sid the Kidd and his squad to find hidden treasure. 3+ years. Cost £10/£7 online.

JaCKsoNs LaNe 269A Archway Road, LondonN6 5AA ( Highgate) 020 8341 4421 jacksonslane.org.uk Kinesonic September 25, 26 Circus, comedy and music.

Cost £5 or £10.

Pop! September 29 Bubbles, balls and balloons. 3+ years.

LauderdaLe house Highgate Hill, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG ( Archway) 020 8348 8716 lauderdalehouse.co.uk Monty and Mirabella September 21 Dance, mime and clowning.

2-6 years. the King, the Minstrel & the restless Jester September 28 Costumed performance with audience participation. 3-10 years. the Very ugly duckling October 5 A little duckling transforms into a beautiful swan. 3-8 years.

the insect Circus October 29-November 2 Performing insects! Family show.

LeiCester sQuare theatre 6 Leicester Place, WC2H 7BX ( Leicester Square) 08448 733433 leicestersquaretheatre.com West end Magic September 22 Illusions, magic and comedy.

Cost £15/£10/family £40.

Marty Macdonald’s Farm October 31 Marty, Pongo the Pig, Molly-Moo the Cow and Sheena the Sheep try to save their farm. 3-8 years.

We’re Going on a Bear hunt November 6-10 Thrilling and funny adventure with puppets. 2+ years.

LioN & uNiCorN theatre 42-44 Gaisford Street, NW5 2ED ( Kentish Town)

how to Catch a star October 6 Music, puppets and storytelling.

3+ years.

Big red Bath October 20 Barmy bath time adventure. 2+ years.

Pinocchio October 27 New version of a classic tale.

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

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places to go theatres • concerts • nct 08444 771000 (bookings) lionandunicorntheatre.com The Merchant of Venice Until October 5 Cost £17.50/£15.

What the Dickens!

October 29-November 9 Eight short plays adapted from short stories by Charles Dickens. Cost £12/£8.

LYRIC THEATRE HAMMERSMITH King Street, W6 OQL ( Hammersmith) 020 8741 6850 lyric.co.uk

How to Catch a Star November 2 Music, puppets and story telling.

3+ years. Cost £8/£7online.

SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, SE1 9DT ( London Bridge) 020 7401 9919 shakespearesglobe.com Sackler Storydays – Macbeth September 21 Shakespeare’s stories re-told. 9+ years. Cost £15 for one adult and one child/additional child £8.

I Believe in Unicorns September 27-28 A story from children’s author Michael Morpurgo. 5-11 years.

Cost £8.

Muse of Fire October 28-November 1 Story-based family treasure hunt around the theatre. Meet strange and magical characters along the way. 5-11 years. Cost £10.

The Sorcerer’s Apprentice October 5 Puppets and magic. 4-7 years.

Cost £8.

Yummm!

October 12 Join in with the fun at dinner time.

Shows for under 4 years & 4-8 years.

Cost £8.

The Boy Who Cried Wolf October 18, 19 3-7 years. Cost £8.

Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails October 26 Story telling with puppets. 3-7 years.

Cost £8.

The Many Whoops of Whoops Town October 29-November 2 Half-term entertainment. 4+ years.

Cost £8.

Blast Off! November 9 An outer space mission. 4-7 years.

Cost £8.

MILLFIELD ARTS CENTRE Silver Street, Edmonton, N18 1PJ 020 8807 6680 enfield.gov.uk

The Snail & the Whale September 28, 29 A tiny snail hitches a lift on a huge humpback whale. 4+ years. Cost £13/£12 online.

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, SE1 2HZ ( London Bridge) 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com Othello: The Remix September 12-29 Hip-hop version. 13+ years.

Cost £16/£10.

Dora September 13-November 17 Dora likes to keep everything she finds, but she has to let go of some of them. 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 comes down from the sky to make friends with a young boy.

2+ years. Cost £16/£10.

Henry the Fifth October 8-November 16

Don’t miss out to watch the fantastic classic stories or tailor-made unique stories of your own on a tiny Pumpkin Stage

Second one %20 OFF For bookings and further information please give us a call or email on 07947322354 www.pumpkintheatreproductions.com pumpkintheatreproductions@gmail.com Follow us on Twitter Pumpkintheatre@Theatrepumpkin

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Classic story re-imagined. 8+ years.

Cost £16/£10.

£2/£3 per family – suggested donation to help raise funds.

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.

UPSTAIRS AT THE GATEHOUSE THEATRE The Gatehouse Pub, Highgate Village, N6 4BD ( Highgate) 020 8340 3488 upstairsatthegatehouse.com Much Ado About Nothing October 1-12 Shakespeare’s comedy. Cost £12, £14, £16.

WIGMORE HALL 36 Wigmore Street, W1U 2BP ( Bond Street) 020 7935 2141 wigmore-hall.org.uk Chamber Tots October 2, 16, November 7 Short performance and an interactive workshop. 2-5 years. Cost £6 per child.

Watch This Space!

October 5 Musical journey to outer space with the Aurora Orchestra. 5+ years. Cost £7/£5.

For Crying Out Loud October 22, November 13 Chamber music in a calm environment. For parents and babies up to 1 year old. Cost £6 per adult.

Toddler Bop October 23 Interactive music, movement and workshops. 1-2 years. Cost £6 per child.

NCT – North London ENFIELD BRANCH nct.org.uk/branches/enfield The Enfield NCT branch run a full programme of events for local parents-to-be and new parents.

Please check the website for up-todate information and the rescheduled autumn timetable.

Nearly New Sale November 2 Baby and children’s clothes and equipment for sale. Morning and afternoon sales at 10.30am & 1.30pm. Venue to be confirmed.

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.

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HARINGEY BRANCH nct.org.uk/haringey haringeynct.org.

Nearly New Sale September 14 (Saturday) At Union Church, Weston Park, Crouch End, N8 9TA. 11am. Clothing, toys, equipment and refreshments.

Pub Night@The Old Dairy September 19 8pm 1-3 Crouch Hill, N4. For expectant parents with babies due around October, November or December.

Non-members welcome. Confirm attendance stroudgreen@ haringeynct.org Book Club @ The Woodman September 24, October 29 alisonmccann@yahoo.com Hosted by Ali at The Woodman, 414 Archway Road, N6 5UA. NCTea@Karamel September 26 10am Monthly event to meet for a coffee and chat at Coburg Road, Wood Green. Non-members welcome.

CUFOS Playgroup cufos.org.uk Every Tuesday playgroup@haringeynct.org Regular playgroup at N10 2QE – behind Alexandra Palace. Dedicated baby area and outside activities.

Volunteers urgently required. Cost £1.50 per family includes tea, coffee and cake.

NCTea@Blend localblend.co.uk Mondays At 587 Green Lanes, N8 ORG. Meet local parents in a spacious café. Nonmembers welcome.

NCTea@Pickled Pepper Books pickledpepperbooks.co.uk Tuesdays 10am-11.30am Tea and chat at 10 Middle Lane, Crouch End, N8 8PL. Storytelling, author events and film screenings.

Bumps & Babies Thursdays 2.30pm Meet ups for new and expecting mums (and dads) hosted by Laura at Jackson’s Lane café, 269a Archway Road, N6 5AA. Non-members welcome.

Running Late@Pond Square Wednesdays highgate@haringeynct.org Join Laura at Pond Square, Highgate N6 for a half hour run.

NCTea@The Step Fortnightly Fridays Held at The Step, 101 Myddleton Road, N22 9NE. Friendly local café.

NCTea in East Finchley Thursdays 11.30am eastfinchley@haringeynct.org Meet ups for mums and babies under 12 months at a local café.

Tootoomums@Too Too Moo Monthly family get together, taster

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nct • special events • local events places to go sessions and cookery demonstrations at 12 Crouch End Hill, N8.

TOTTENHAM BRANCH nct.org.uk//branches/tottenham Nearly New Sale October 12 11am Second-hand clothes and equipment sale. Earlier entry for NCT members.

Check website for venue address.

Special Events ALEXANDRA PALACE Alexandra Palace Way, N22 7AY ( Wood Green) 020 8365 2121 alexandrapalace.com The Knitting & Stitching Show October 10-13 Specialist suppliers, workshops and craft activities.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH October 1-30 A chance to celebrate Black cultural heritage with events taking place throughout the month at various local libraries and venues including Forty Hall, Sutton House and Hackney Museum.

EAST FINCHLEY ARTS FESTIVAL eastfinchleyartsfestival.org.uk September 28-October 6 Full programme available on website.

FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL familyartsfestival.com October 18-November 3 Family art events at various locations around the country.

The Big Barbican Adventure barbican.org.uk October 18-November 2 Family adventure trail with clues, drawing and games. 6-11 years. Free.

The Big Draw artsdepot.co.uk October 20 Explore what the future might look like, with games, workshops and prizes. 3+ years. Cost £2.

The Big Draw foundlingmuseum.org.uk October 26 Drop-in drawing event. Free with museum admission.

FENTON HOUSE Hampstead, NW3 6SP 020 7435 3471 nationaltrust.org.uk/fenton-house Apple Weekend September 28, 29 Local produce, tasting sessions, cake stalls and activities for children.

Outdoor event. Cost £8.50/£3.

HAMPSTEAD HEATH ( Kentish Town/Hampstead) 020 7332 3322 cityoflondon.gov.uk/hampstead

Waltham Abbey Gardens, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 1XQ. Medieval reenactments, falconry, archery and art and craft activities Cost £3/child free.

Children can harvest a free bag of potatoes from the Willows Potato Patch and learn all about where food they eat comes from. Entrance adult £13.50/child £14.50/under 2s free.

Hampstead & Highgate Literary Festival hamhighlitfest.com September 15-17 Special Kidsfest on Sunday with events, shows and workshops for all ages. ‘Kid for a Quid’ entry/adults £5.

LORD MAYOR’S SHOW lordmayorsshow.org November 9

Pumpkin Festival October 24-November 3 Pumpkin carving area and daily activities and prizes. Halloween fun with pumpkin Olympics, pumpkin hunts and see the spiders and snakes in the Zootacular Animal Show. A free pumpkin for every child.

Zippos Circus September 19-24 Rookie Rangers Wildlife Club September 22 Education Centre, Parliament Hill.

Learn about wildlife, outdoor games, bush skills and natural art. Booking required. (020 7482 7073) 8-12 years.

Spooky Secret Garden October 30 Family event. Parliament Hill Secret Garden.

Hallowe’en Party October 31 Adventure Playground. Bring food to share. (020 7482 2116) 5+ years.

Haunted Heath October 31 Guided walk for adults. (020 7482 7073). Cost £5.

KEATS HOUSE Keats Grove, NW3 2RR ( Hampstead Heath) 020 7332 3868 cityoflondon.gov.uk/keatshouse Gorgeous Gardens September 15 Storytelling and hands-on craft activities inspired by the garden. Free.

Autumn Adventure October 20 Family activities with words, pictures, sounds and smells of autumn. Free drop-in.

KINGS PLACE 90 York Way, N1 9AG ( Kings Cross) 020 7520 1490 kingsplace.co.uk Jazz for Babies: Album Launch October 12 Calm, soothing lullaby music for babies and toddlers. 0-5 years. Free.

Aurora Orchestra: Storytelling with Bach October 19 Interactive concert to introduce young children to Bach’s music. 3+ years. Cost £6.50/£4.50/family(4) £16.50/family(5) £19.50.

City of London procession with floats and entertainment. Fireworks display at 5pm.

MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING September 27 Organise a coffee morning or attend a public event and help raise money for the Macmillan Cancer Support.

Register online to receive a kit.

OPEN HOUSE LONDON openhouselondon.org.uk September 21, 22 Free public access to buildings of architectural and community interest across London. Local guides available on places to visit.

Alexandra Palace alexandrapalace.com September 21 Pre-booked guided tours as part of the Open House weekend.

Chicken Shed chickenshed.org.uk September 21 Free hourly guided tours.

Isis Education Centre supporttheroyalparks.org September 21, 22 Access to the grounds to explore and take part. Guided tours every half-hour. Free.

Myddelton House visitleevalley.org.uk September 21 Annual opening of the magnificent house of E.A. Bowles. Free.

Wigmore Hall wigmore-hall.org.uk September 21 Take a look behind the scenes, follow a trail and take part in workshops.

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.

LEE VALLEY Myddlelton House, Bulls Cross, Enfield EN2 9HG 08456 770 600 (M25/J25) visitleevalleypark.org.uk

WILLOWS FARM VILLAGE Coursers Road, St Albans, AL4 OPF (M25/J22) 0870 129 9718 willowsfarmvillage.com

King Harold Festival October 12, 13

Potato Shindig!

September 15, 21, 22, 28, 29

ZSL LONDON ZOO Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY ( Regent’s Park) zsl.org BedBUGS sleepover September 21, 28, October 12 November 9 Get woken up by a lion roaring at the Zoo sleepovers. Next day entry to the zoo, activities, torch-light night tours, accommodation and breakfast. 8-11 years. Cost £50.

Meet the Penguins Enter the VIP area on the penguin beach. Limited daily places. Book in advance. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Height restrictions apply. 3+ years.

Cost £45 (weekdays) and £60 (weekends) each. Entry to the zoo extra.

Local Events Barnet Barnet Walks Paul Baker 020 8440 6805 barnetwalks.talktalk.net Battle of Barnet September 15, October 20 A guided walk across the famous War of the Roses battlefield of 1471.

Cost £8/£4 for under 12 years.

Hallowe’en Ghost Walk October 28-31 Through High Barnet and Monken Hadley. Suitable for adults and accompanied children. Prize for spookiest costume! Cost £8/£4 for under 12 years.

Callis Craft Fairs Barnet Library, Stapylton Road, Barnet, EN5 Craft Fair October 5, November 2

Camden Bloomsbury Festival Russell Square and surrounding areas.

October 15-20 Community festival with performances, art, music and

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

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places to go local events • half term • halloween children’s events taking place at many local venues. Free and ticketed.

CHRIST CHURCH Chalk Lane, Cockfosters, EN4 9JQ

Haringey

Camley Street Natural Park 12 Camley Street, N1C 4PW 020 7833 2311 ( Kings Cross) wildlondon.org.uk

Family Fun Day September 28 Stalls, story trails, toddler play area and craft activities.

BRUCE CASTLE MUSEUM Lordship Lane, N17 8NU ( Seven Sisters) 020 8808 8772 haringey.gov.uk The Hoffman Foundation for Autism October Exhibition of competition entries.

Tottenham Tudors September 15, 22, 29 Drop-in on Sundays and during school holidays for special art and craft activities. 5-13 years. Free.

Historical Tours Guided group tours of the building.

Standing throughout. Book in advance. Cost including refreshments £5/family £15/under 5s free.

Nature Reserve Drop-in during opening hours to check details on holiday activities.

Coram’s Fields 93 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DN ( Russell Square) 020 3384 2202 coramsfields.org Fireworks Night November 1

KENTISH TOWN COMMUNITY CENTRE 17 Busby Place, NW5 2SP 020 7482 3212 Activities Weekly classes for children in music, art, yoga, ballet, martial arts and sports. Toy library and toddler classes.

OCTOBER GALLERY 24 Old Gloucester Street, WC1N 3AL ( Holborn) 020 7242 7367 octobergallery.co.uk October Gallery Family Art Day September 21 Learn, play and explore the current exhibition with art activities. Arrive early for places. Under 5 years. Free.

1a Children’s Centre Family Art Day September 24 Held at 1 Rosebery Avenue, EC1R 4SR. Under 5 years. Free.

Enfield CAPEL MANOR GARDENS Bullsmoor Lane,Enfield, EN1 4RQ (M25/J25) 08456 122122 capelmanorgardens.co.uk City Harvest Festival September 21 Celebrate city farms and community gardens with displays, produce, farm animals, country crafts, falconry and tug-of-war. Cost £5.50/£2.50/family (2+3) £13.50/ under 5s free.

Apple Day at Forty Hall Farm October 20 Celebrate all things apple. Cost £3/£2/3 years and under free.

Halloween Howler October 27 Pumpkin carving, face painting, tractor rides and spooky stories.

Noah’s Ark Children’s hospice event. Normal admission charges £5.50/£2.50/family (2+3) £13.50/ under 5s free.

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ENFIELD ISLAND VILLAGE COMMUNITY CENTRE 40-42 Island Centre, Way, EN3 6GS (Enfield Lock ) 07508 706 309 eiv.org.uk Job Fair September 21 Village Market October 6, November 3 Food, art and craft, face painting, bouncy castle and more. Free.

Coffee Mornings Every Monday

FORTY HALL Forty Hill, Enfield EN2 9HA (M25/J25) 020 8363 8196 fortyhallestate.co.uk Rainton Pageant October 26 Procession from Enfield Town to Forty Hall. Community event with festival activities.

ST LUKE’S CHURCH Phipps Hatch Lane, Enfield, EN2 OHL Craft Fair October 12, November 9 Tearoom, art and craft, face painting and children’s activities. Free entry.

Hackney 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.

SUTTON HOUSE MUSIC SOCIETY At Sutton House, 2 Homerton High Street, E9 6JQ ( Bethnal Green) 07505 609757 Bookings shms.org.uk Concerts October 20, November 10 Classical music. Children of all ages are welcome to attend – although the concerts are not aimed at children. Cost £10/concessions £8/ free for children, students under 26 years and disabled people and their carers.

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HARINGEY COUNCIL haringey.gov.uk Open House Weekend September 21, 22 Visit many buildings and historical sites as part of the free Open House London activities.

Nearly New Sale September 14, October 12 November 9 At St George’s Hall, Cranley Gardens, N10 3AH. Nearly new children’s clothes, books and equipment.

10.15am-11.45am.

Walk to Look at Fungi October 9 Booking required.

Autumn Guided Walk October 26

MARKFIELD BEAM ENGINE & MUSEUM Markfield Road, N15 4RB ( Tottenham Hale) 01707 873628 mbeam.org London Open House Weekend September 21, 22 Steam days and events.

Open Days October 13, November 10

Islington BUSINESS DESIGN CENTRE 52 Upper Street, Islington, N1 OQH ( Angel) 020 7288 6272 businessdesigncentre.co.uk countrylivingfair.com

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THE MUSEUM OF THE ORDER OF ST JOHN St John’s Gate, St John’s Lane, EC1M 4DA ( Farringdon) 020 7324 4005 museumstjohn.org.uk Family Activities Museum trails, backpacks and art activities on selected dates during the school holidays. Join the museum club to take part in special activities.

8-14 years.

PARASOL UNIT FOUNDATION FOR CONTEMPORARY ART 14 Wharf Road, N1 7RW ( Angel) 020 7490 7373 parasol-unit.org Family Workshops Regular artist-led Sunday workshops based on the exhibitions. All ages.

HARINGEY FAMILIES haringeyfamilies.co.uk

HIGHGATE WOOD Information Hut, Muswell Hill Road, N10 3JN ( Highgate) 020 8444 6129 cityoflondon.gov.uk/highgatewood

Country Living Christmas October 30-November 3 Quality Christmas craft fair. Entry charges apply.

Half Term & Halloween Events (See Theatres & Museums sections for more things to do over the halfterm holidays)

ARTS DEPOT Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, N12 OGA ( West Finchley & Woodside Park) 020 8369 5454 artsdepot.co.uk Room on the Broom October 26-31 A stormy wind blows the witch’s hat and wand away. Dress up as little witches, monsters or ghouls! Special craft workshops at extra cost. 3+ years. Cost £13.

BARBICAN CENTRE Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS ( Barbican) 020 7638 4141 barbican.org.uk LSO Discovery Family Concert: Witches October 27 Pre-concert workshops at extra cost and free foyer events. 7-12 years.

Cost £10/£5.

The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean October 29-31, November 2-5 Scrapologist Patricia Baker looks after old scrapbooks flattened and squashed with information and tries to find out where they came from. Foyer activities before each performance.

7+ years. Cost £8.50.

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half term • halloween • further afield places to go BurGh house & haMPstead MuseuM New End Square, NW3 1LT ( Hampstead) 020 7431 0144 burghhouse.org.uk Make a Pinhole Camera!

October 27 Art activities and visit the Photographers of Hampstead exhibition. Bookable online.

5-10 years. Cost £5. horrible halloween Party!

November 1 Spooky stories and art activities.

Come in fancy dress to win a prize.

Bookable online. Accompanied 2-9 years. Cost £15.

CaMdeN CaNaLs & NarroWBoat assoCiatioN Depart for London Canal Museum, 12-13 New Wharf Road, N1 9RT ( Kings Cross) 020 7713 0836 canalmuseum.org.uk camdencanals.org halloween experience October 26, 27 Narrowboat trips though the Islington Tunnel departing from London Canal Museum. Decorated boats, costumed staff, ghost stories and face painting. The Tarporley is one of the three narrowboats involved in the trips. Early booking

recommended. Family event for children and accompanying adults.

Cost £10/£8/£96 to book the boat with 12 places.

haMPstead heath ( Kentish Town/Hampstead) 020 7332 3322 cityofl ondon.gov.uk/hampstead spooky secret Garden October 30 Family event. Parliament Hill Secret Garden. hallowe’en Party October 31 Adventure Playground. Bring food to share. (020 7482 2116). 5+ years.

020 7249 6876 puppetbarge.com the hare & the tortoise & other tales from aesop October 26-November 3 Well-known fables brought to life with drama and humour using carved marionettes. 3+ years. Cost £10/£8.50.

royaL aLBert haLL Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP ( South Kensington) 0845 401 5045 royalalberthall.com discover Blues October 28 Learn about Blues artists and take part in family workshops.

Accompanied 5-11 years. Cost £3.50/subsidised tickets available.

Lee VaLLey ParK FarMs Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF 08456 770 600 (M25/J25) visitleevalleypark.org.uk spook-tacular October 26-November 3 Pumpkin carving, story telling and magical crafts. Meet the farm animals, indoor and outdoor play areas, Petunia’s Pick event days and seasonal holiday activities. Entry £8.50/£7 weekends and £5.20/£4.80 off peak.

Under 2s free. Petunia’s Farm Club annual membership £50/£35.

sadLer’s WeLLs & LiLiaN BayLis studio Rosebery Avenue, EC1R 4TN ( Angel) 0844 412 4300 sadlerswells.com

PuPPet theatre BarGe Blomfi eld Road, Little Venice, W9 2PF ( Warwick Avenue)

deep in the Woods October 26-28 As above but without the scary bits!

2-4 years. Cost £12/£7.

in a deep dark Wood October 26-28 Fun interactive show with workshops.

5+ years. Cost £12/£7.

WiLLoWs FarM ViLLaGe Coursers Road, St Albans, AL4 OPF (M25/J22) 0870 129 9718 willowsfarmvillage.com Pumpkin Festival October 24-November 3 Pumpkin carving area and daily activities and prizes. Halloween fun with pumpkin Olympics, pumpkin hunts and see the spiders and snakes in the Zootacular Animal Show. A free pumpkin for every child.

Further Afield LeGoLaNd Windsor Resort (Windsor + shuttle bus) legoland.co.uk Brick or treat halloween Fun October 26-November 2 Family theme park with rides, live shows, pumpkins, witches, ghosts, fancy dress contest and meet Frankie the friendly monster. Fireworks display on selected nights. 2-12 years.

Advance booking £34.20/£27.45.

WiMBLedoN LaWN teNNis MuseuM All England Lawn Tennis Championships Ltd, Church Road, SW19 5AE ( Southfields) Museum displays Museum charges £12/£10.25/£7/£5.50.

Pu mpkin Festi val

24th October – 3rd November 2013

Pumpkin-tastic fun for all the family! ● Pumpkin Olympics ● Pumpkin Hunt ● Match the Scarecrows ● Pumpkin carving competitions ● Zootacular Animal Show ● Pumpkin Hoopla

Plus all your favourite Willows farmyard farm myard m yard fun and adventure play

Open daily 10am - 5.30pm Just 200 metres from Jnc. 22 M25.

Willows Farm Village, Coursers Rd, London Colney, St. Albans, Hertfordshire AL4 0PF

Tel: 0 0870 129 9718 www.willowsfarmvillage.com 16279A 08/13

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Events and activities subject to change without notice. Please call to check the latest information.

We recommend wellington boots to be worn as the ground can be muddy at this time of year.

To advertise in Families North London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familiesnorth.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 will be providing tips and advice on baby development.

Kidspace Kidspace Romford’s popular Halloween Spooky Spectacular will take place on Thursday 31st October.

The event takes place from 7pm to 9pm and will include games, disco dancing, a fancy dress competition and pizza snack.

Cost: £8 for annual pass holders; £10 for non annual pass holders and £12 on the door

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. 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

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• C lare 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: • The 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.

• F isher-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.familiesnorth.co.uk/competitions to enter.

Good luck!

Please note this event is always a sell out and tickets on the door are not guaranteed.

Kidspace can be found at The Brewery, Waterloo Road, Romford, Essex RM1 1AU. Tel 01708 768003 Fun for all, for all to see Kidspace Romford is the spookiest place to be! Come see, come stay, let’s dance and play Fun and games, a disco too Watch out for the things that might scare you!

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 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.

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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 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.

Here at Families North London Magazine we love to hear from our readers. So put pen to paper or get typing on the keyboard and let us know your thoughts by letter or email. Write to editor@familiesnorth. co.uk or send to Families North, 120 Brent Street, London NW4 2DT.

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london WalkaBout 2013. a 5k family fun day in hyde park.

On Saturday 28th September, The Walkabout Foundation are hosting their third annual London Walkabout 2013, a 5k family fun walk around the Serpentine in Hyde Park. KX Gym in Chelsea is covering the event costs as our headline sponsor, which is thrilling as it means that 100% of all money raised goes directly to buying wheelchairs for kids in need all over the world. For the first time, we will be hosting a picnic in the park after the walk, and KX will be providing trainers on hand to stretch participants and hold a short yoga session for parents, whilst the children are being entertained by renowned children’s party planners, Sharky & George, alongside face painters and a children’s nail polish stand hosted by Little BU. The first 400 participants to register will get amazing goody bags filled with snacks, frisbees, toys and surprises from sponsors such as Jax Coco, Bounce Balls, Net-a-Porter, Lola’s Cupcakes, Eat Natural, Green & Black’s and more. Not to mention, we will be holding a raffle for people to win a host of incredible prizes for the whole family, including a pair of Tod’s shoes, Skechers and a water bobble family gift pack! We are really excited about this year’s event. It’s free to join and the perfect event for families looking to do something active and charitable with their kids on a Saturday afternoon in London!

To register, people need to visit: https://uk.walkaboutfoundation. org/events/london-walkabout-2013.html or email events@ walkaboutfoundation.org. Please note that the walk starts at 11am, but registration/sign in starts from 10am.

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Dale Arndell An ideal gift for friends or family 10% discount on all commissions when you mention this advert.

Price includes photo shoot.

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

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