Families London SE Nov Dec 2015 by Families Magazine

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NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2015 ISSUE NO. 173 ESTABLISHED 1996

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familiesse.co.uk

southeast london

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON Christmas shows, events, workshops and grottos TOP TOY GUIDE From Just Williams READING TO CHILDREN And books for Christmas

online edition

with working website links

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‘TIS THE SEASON to be jolly - oh the fun of list making, gift buying, card writing, pudding making, panto booking, nativity watching, tree decorating, gift wrapping, turkey ordering, guestbed plumping, log buying, carol singing, battery charging, tinsel twirling, nut cracking, charades playing, sibling taunting, spud basting, sprout trimming and sherry sipping. Phew! When you look around at all those happy faces come 25 December it will all have been worth it - Happy Christmas everyone! Robina Cowan, editor

IN THIS ISSUE

2-3 Local News and Views

Win family show tickets; Christmas trees that help the homeless; family learning; children’s drama and dance; nurture groups for children with autism, and a post-Christmas magic show

4-7 Education News

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New schools for southeast London; schools news; and learning maths, English and German outside the classroom

8-9 The Book Pages

How to enjoy reading with your child; and Christmas books for children and grownups, by Justine Crow

10-11 Christmas Starts Here!

Ten top toys chosen by Just Williams, and under £20 stocking fillers

12 Family Life

A new baby vaccination; childhood obesity fears; and how an unexpected inheritance altered a couple’s divorce settlement

13-19 What’s On

South London Santa’s grottos, Christmas events, shows, pantos and creative workshops - London is full of sparkly lights and goodwill to all

f LocalNews f email your news to editor@familiesse.co.uk

King’s Christmas trees - sharing hope

When you buy your Christmas tree from King’s Christmas Trees you will support local charity The Jericho Road Project. Profits from tree sales go to providing accommodation, friendship and a year’s meals to rough sleepers and vulnerable people in the borough of Lewisham. Finally, the trees are fresh and fabulous at Families we’re ordering from them again this year! For prices, pick-up or delivery details, go to www.kingschristmastrees.org.

Perform X - new dance classes In January 2016, Perform launches Perform X - brand new dance-based classes for 6-12 year-olds. The high-energy weekly sessions are designed to boost children’s coordination, improve their concentration and give them a fun energetic way to develop physical skills, get fit and have fun. Using original street and hip-hop music, the class is based around a specially designed curriculum which includes a mix of energetic games, physical improvisations and high octane exhilarating moves guaranteed to get young hearts beating faster. All class materials are produced by Perform and, at the end of each term, there’s a performance of a choreographed piece to a specially written track and is truly a dance class that both boys and girls will adore. Perform X will initially pilot in St Barnabas Parish Hall in Dulwich Village, after school on Mondays. For more information and booking, visit www.perform.org.uk/x, email enquiries@perform.org.uk, or call 020 7255 9120.

Auditions for teenagers It has been a busy year for South London Youth Theatre students, who took to the stage in productions of Les Miserables, The Lion King, Coram Boy and an original musical Orphan Song at the Greenwich Theatre in July. 2016 looks set to be just as busy for the talented young actors, singers, and dancers who attend weekly classes and holiday courses with the Dulwich based Theatre Company. Students as young as seven can enroll in weekly drama and musical theatre classes, but the company also offers advanced training for teenagers who are serious about theatre and want to develop their talents in a professional environment whether just for fun or with a view to advancing into the profession. “We are so proud of the accomplishments of our Senior students who have gone into the business or who are training at top London drama schools.” Auditions for new students take place in January, call 0208 850 0516 or visit www.SLYT.co.uk.

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Families South East PO Box 11591, London SE26 6WB 020 8699 7240, www.familiesse.co.uk, editor@familiesse.co.uk Families South East is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families South East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

families south east - november / december 2015

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WIN! Tickets to see ‘Beauty and the Beast’ at the Polka Theatre

Family Learning

The classic tale of Beauty and the Beast comes to life at the Polka Theatre from 20 November to 7 February brimming with magic, music and mystery. For full listings, see page 17. We have two family tickets to be won - go to www.familiesse.co.uk and click ‘competitions’ to enter.

Adult Learning Lewisham offers an extensive Family Learning programme which provides parents with the skills and knowledge to support their children’s education. Courses are practical, fun and informative and encourage family members to learn new skills and enjoy quality time together. The organisers told us: “Some of our Family Learning courses are designed to help parents improve their English, or understand how English and Maths are taught in schools so that they are more confident in supporting their children’s learning. Other popular courses include pottery, drawing and painting, yoga, cooking, languages and computing.” The courses are delivered in schools, children centres, voluntary and community centres across Lewisham borough, often at no cost to participants. Courses also take place in centres in Brockley, Lewisham and Grove Park. For details on how to enrol and a full list of courses visit www.lewisham.gov.uk/adultlearning or call 020 8314 3300 for more information. Schools, community groups or children’s centres who are interested in running partnership courses can find out more by emailing Ruhsar.Osman@lewisham.gov.uk.

Children with autism in SE London

Family comedy magic show

Southeast London charity Montessori Education for Autism (MEfA) has received new funding from Children in Need. Director Wendy Fidler told us: ‘We are thrilled to receive a second grant from Children in Need - it gives kudos to the quality and effectiveness of the work we do in nurturing local families with autism.” MEfA runs dedicated nurture groups for primary-aged children with autism and other special educational needs. Based at the charity’s headquarters on Westcombe Hill, Blackheath, the groups support pre-school children, homeeducated children and also school children who attend on Tuesdays after-school during term time. For more information, call MEfA on 020 8305 2202 or email mail@montessorieducationforautism.com.

Liven up those dull days between Christmas and new year with an amazing magic show for the family. Staged by Amigo’s Magic with lots of audience participation, see live animals plucked from thin air - and one lucky person will be cut in half before your very eyes! Plus the chance to meet Fluffy the Rabbit and a free Bunny Copter to take home. The show takes place at the Ivy House in Nunhead, 2-4pm on 28 December. Tickets £6 children, £7.50 adults, £20 family of four. Book at www.magicmindreadingandmayhem.co.uk.

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WIN! Tickets to see ‘The Tiger Who Came To Tea’ at the Lyric Theatre The truly magical, Olivier Award nominated production of The Tiger Who Came To Tea makes for a fantastic family show, and is onstage at the Lyric Theatre from 25 November to 10 January. For full listings, see page 17. We have a family ticket to be won - go to www.familiesse.co.uk and click ‘competitions’ to enter.

november / december 2015 - families south east

education news New Charter School for East Dulwich

More places at Southwark Primary Free School Southwark Primary Free School, which opened in September 2012, has recently expanded and now boasts six new classrooms and fantastic new facilities, including an all-weather outdoor play area. Thanks to this, there are now more places for Reception through to Year 3 pupils to benefit from its child-led approach and its commitment to give all children a first class education where they will learn, aspire and achieve; irrespective of background and circumstance. The school has already attracted one of the best primary headteachers in the country as its Executive Head. It is currently based in Ledbury Hall, Pencraig Way in Southwark, while its permanent site, a purpose built two form entry primary school with nursery, is being developed at 399 Rotherhithe New Road. The school is holding an open morning on 2 December for interested parents. To arrange a visit, call 020 7635 4256 or email southwarkfreeschool@gmail.com.

The Charter School East Dulwich has formally secured its permanent site with the acquisition of part of the Dulwich Community Hospital site by the Education Funding Agency (EFA). Earmarked for regeneration for over 20 years, the high profile but derelict site will return as a community asset through the development of the new Charter School East Dulwich, alongside a health centre. Since the successful bid to the DfE by The Charter School Educational Trust in March 2015 to open a sibling school for its ‘Outstanding’ rated Charter school in Dulwich, the EFA have been in discussions with NHS Property Services to purchase the remaining parcel of land in order to build a brand new secondary school. It will eventually accommodate 1680 11-18 year olds. The Charter School East Dulwich is currently consulting the community for the temporary buildings which will be complete by September 2016, ready for its first intake of year 7 students. Applications for entry are open through the school’s website www.chartereastdulwich.org.uk.

New Academy School in Beckenham A new secondary free school for Beckenham was officially launched at its open evening on 6 October. In order to help meet the extra demand for schooling the local authority needs by 2020, Multi-Academy Trust E21C launched The Beckenham Academy, which is set to open in September 2016 for Year 7 students. While the new school premises are under construction, TBA will be based at The Ravensbourne School (TRS) in Bromley, a short distance from the school’s permanent location in Beckenham. The Beckenham Academy holds a strong ethos of ‘To be the best you can be’. Underpinning all that it does, the ethos reflects the high aspirations expected from every student through their seven-year journey. Students will benefit from an extended school day prioritising the school’s five C’s; offering students Careers guidance, encouraging Communication, involving students with the Community, creating Competition through the extra-curricular activity programme, whilst developing Critical Thinking skills. All ensure each student leaves not only successful but also prepared for the world of work. For more information, see www.thebeckenhamacademy.info.

Wiggly winner

Explore Learning free trial sessions Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year-olds of all abilities. As Explore members, children work with tutors who are enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme which is mapped to the National Curriculum. The centres are open seven days a week to fit into busy family lives. To find out how your child can benefit from Explore Learning, book a free trial at www.explorelearning.co.uk.

German Saturday School The German Saturday School in Forest Hill is a parent-run organisation, founded in 2010 by parents with many years’ experience in teaching and running a German Saturday School. The aim is to support parents with bilingual children. They told Families: “We believe in experiential learning and enjoyment of the German language and culture. Our aim is to create a friendly and intimate environment in which children and parents are at home.” There are five classes for children from 3-16 years including a GCSE class, and an adult class too. There are spaces available for new families to join in - find out more at www.dssfh.com.

families south east - november / december 2015

Bug wrangler Cairis Hickey is owner of the Wiggly Wild Show. Normally found in local schools and nurseries teaching environmental education to children, she recently scooped a Best of Lewisham Business award, and was a Women in Business Award finalist so instead has been rubbing shoulders and eating canapés with the Mayor of Lewisham. Cairis was delighted to receive recognition for her commitment to being an ambassador of Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) in schools, especially for a business started only three years ago. She said: “It’s wonderful to get acknowledgement for the volunteering I do as a STEM ambassador, and the hard work I’ve put into the business and local community in the last three years. By the time I’ve finished every child in SE London and Kent will adore bugs!” Wiggly Wild Shows bring along a diverse selection of hermit crabs, hissing cockroaches, praying mantis, toads, newts, garter snakes, bearded dragon, scorpions, giant millipedes, beetles, giant snails, gecko, hedgehog, stick insects and more. For more information, or to book a school or nursery visit, go to www.wigglywildshow.co.uk.

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DISCOVER WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL

Developing independent thinkers and learners Prep School School Open Prep OpenDays Days Saturday Tuesday Tuesday

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november / december 2015 - families south east

education news Pete Kalu wows audience at Addey & Stanhope School

SHS Stand Up To Cancer with Kirsty Allsopp When Sydenham High School ran a charity day to raise funds for Stand Up To Cancer in October, one of their most eager participants was the campaign’s ambassador Kirsty Allsopp. The Channel 4 ‘Location, Location, Location’ presenter joined the morning assembly, followed by a Year 11 science class examining the origins of cancer, where she encouraged the girls to think about choosing a career in scientific research to help find cancer cures. Everyone dressed in orange for the day and took part in fundraising activities including a sponsored ‘Stand Up’ in lessons, a mass Zumbathon and a bake sale, all in aid of Stand Up To Cancer. More than 600 pupils and 150 staff at the school took part and surpassed their target by raising over £3,000. Kirstie’s final appointment was an interview with two of the school’s young reporters - Louisa Hanton and Isabel Helszajn-Jewett. Kirstie explained how her own family experience of cancer (her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when Kirstie was in her teens and her sister, given their family history of cancer, has had a preventative mastectomy) is at the heart of her passionate desire to raise awareness and funds. The more money raised, she told the girls, the more scientists can be employed in research and the sooner kinder treatments and cures can be found. For Sydenham High School open events, taster days and admissions information, go to www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net. Stand Up To Cancer is a joint fundraising campaign from Cancer Research UK and Channel 4. It unites scientists, celebrities and communities to generate funds, raise awareness and bring forward the day when all cancers are cured. Read more at www.standuptocancer.org.uk.

Bromley High achieves Eco-Schools Award Bromley High School has achieved the accolade of an Eco-Schools’ Green Flag Award, in recognition of the school’s commitment to improve local and global environment for all. For the past few years, both the Junior and Senior schools have been championing initiatives to educate the pupils and wider school community on environmental issues. These have included Meat Free Monday; reducing food waste in the school canteen; recycling electrical goods; observing Earth Hour; designing a wildlife garden for the Reception girls; and holding a mock election on environmental issues, complete with manifestos and campaign posters. One of the newest initiatives is the Junior School’s Forest School, which allows the girls to explore their woodlands. Dr Snehal Desai, Bromley High School’s Environmental Coordinator commented: “Now we have achieved the outstanding accolade of an Eco-Schools’ Green Flag we are delighted that the girls’ hard work on whole school initiatives has been recognised and we hope to continue to fly the flag as a sign of our commitment to improve our local and global environment for all.” Sarah French, Marketing and Communications Officer at Keep Britain Tidy told the school: “Congratulations to you and the girls on your achievement, you should be really proud. You are the only Green Flag awarded secondary school in LB Bromley.” For more information on Eco Schools, see www.eco-schools.org.uk. To discover what makes Bromley High School special, plus open day and taster day events, go to www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net.

You could hear a pin drop in the library at Deptford’s Addey & Stanhope School when Manchester-based author Pete Kalu chose to open his recent lunchtime meeting with young Lewisham readers and aspiring writers with a gruesome and scary rendition of a traditional ghost/ shaggy-dog story. It proved a great ice-breaker and a lively talk and Q&A session ensued. Mr Kalu stressed importance of redrafting and how essential it is for writers to be readers. “Keep a diary too,” he suggested; “capture the raw experience of moments in your life when you faced choices or doubts because those conflicting feelings are the stuff of great stories. “ “I enjoyed his talk and hearing about his background,” commented year 8 pupil Adam Abdullah. “It was interesting learning about how books are put together and the design of the covers. Mr Kalu told us how he had rejected the first cover of a novel because the boy on it looked too young.” “It is wonderful for students to have a chance to meet real authors in the flesh,” said Addey & Stanhope headteacher Jan Shapiro. “It was great seeing so many boys in the audience, and the writing tips Mr Kalu offered were terrific.”

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

where children learn, aspire and achieve Smaller school. Bigger opportunities. Personal attention. Great results. Affordable. Scholarships available

For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, London SW11 2HB. Five minutes’ walk from Clapham Junction.

families south east - november / december 2015

...has expanded and is delighted to be able to offer more places to children in Reception through to Year 3. At Southwark Primary Free School, there is a vibrant, well-resourced curriculum, fantastic new facilities, specialist PE teaching and access to additional resources, expertise and specialist teaching support through strong links with an outstanding London Academy. Its learning is child-led, practising Philosophy for Children, to enable children to think critically, caringly, creatively and collaboratively. Interested? Well we’d love to show you our school so come to our open morning on Wednesday 2 December from 9.30 - 10.30am, or call: 020 7635 4256 or email southwarkfreeschool@gmail.com to arrange a visit familiesse.co.uk

I CAN sing-a-long Children’s communication charity I CAN has launched Chatterbox Challenge 2016 - its annual sing-a-long fundraising event for children under five years old. The Challenge encourages early years practitioners in nurseries and early year settings across the UK to support and develop their children’s communication skills through rhyme and song while raising money for the more than a million children across the UK with speech, language and communication needs that require long term specialist help. Chatterbox Challenge 2016 will run from 8-14 February and is again supported by the popular children’s TV show, Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom. Clare Geldard, I CAN Director of Operations, said: “Chatterbox Challenge provides a fantastic opportunity to get children chattering and to encourage parents to join in and support their children’s communication development at home. Singing songs and rhymes are a great way to develop children’s communication skills which helps them to read and understand at school.” To register for a free fundraising activity pack, or to find out more, visit www.chatterboxchallenge.org.uk.

ses s a l C ow n ing book

The importance of literacy skills Teachers of all subjects - even if their specialism is in maths or science - are required to develop pupils’ spoken language, promote reading for enjoyment and emphasise accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation in written work. However, according to a new survey by the National Literacy Trust, many experienced teachers don't have enough confidence in their own grammar skills to do so. The Trust surveyed over 2,000 teaching professionals for their perceptions and confidence around teaching literacy, and found half (51.7%) saying they feel a lack of knowledge is a barrier to improving pupils’ literacy in their school, and almost a quarter (23.9%) saying they do not feel confident teaching the literacy set out in the new National Curriculum. Liz Robinson, headteacher at Surrey Square Primary School in Southwark,said: “Teachers need to be more confident in their own abilities to teach literacy as they know more than they think. Whole school approaches to improving literacy can boost teachers’ confidence and create consistency across subjects so that pupils can make a connection and are aware of the importance of literacy skills in all their lessons.” The Literacy Trust are urging schools to consider investing in continued professional development for staff to increase teachers’ confidence and awareness of appropriate literacy strategies. To read the full report, go to www.literacytrust.org.uk.

Your future: their future Around 35,000 trainee teachers need to be recruited every year, and a new TV ad is calling for more people to consider teaching as a career. The advertisement features some of the country’s most inspiring and talented classroom teachers, and forms part of the government’s annual teacher recruitment campaign, Your Future: Their Future. One of the featured teachers is James Stagg, Mandarin subject leader at the Harris Academy in South Norwood. He said: “I am thrilled to be part of the Your Future: Their Future campaign. Teaching is such a rewarding career. That ‘lightbulb’ moment in teaching is great. Seeing students develop their skills and knowledge is so fulfilling. Of course, there are tough moments but there are so many enjoyable ones.” A new range of bursaries and scholarships is available for the academic year 2016 to 2017 - worth up to £30,000 tax-free - in key academic subjects to top graduates who train to teach. Read more at https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk

Call your local Stagecoach: Dulwich 020 8949 4116 Blackheath 020 7112 8242 Beckenham 020 8541 0833 Sydenham 020 7228 0981 Upper Norwood 020 8672 6066 www.stagecoach.co.uk

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november / december 2015 - families south east

How to read with your child - and really enjoy it “Not now, darling...” is the plaintive refrain from parents - at bedtime, in the library, on the bus or any moment that you have had the audacity to put your feet up for five minutes. Your dearest progeny plonks him or herself down beside you with a picture book that you have already read aloud a hundred times. Recently, when sorting junk in the garage I came across A Squash and a Squeeze by Julia Donaldson and I realised that I could still recite every line, years after I had read it with my child. How can we ensure we are fresh and eager each time our loved one wants to share their reading? And given that we know that it is not only vital for children’s intellectual development to read together but that it also benefits our own inner lives, what should we do to get better at it? Here are ten ways to truly enjoy reading with your little one. 1.

When they are babies, choose books YOU like to read to them. They are too small to understand much but the cadence of your voice gives them comfort. You could read a cookbook aloud and they’ll be content.

When they are toddlers, reading together enables bonding but it also can act as an incentive: if you stay in your bed ALL night, you can get into my bed in the morning for a story, how’s that?

Accept and celebrate the knowledge that reading with your child is part of your job description as a parent. It is there alongside cuddler, sleep-trainer and bottom wiper. The more you do it, the easier it becomes. Soon, you will be a natural performer.

The concept of ‘making time’ is an impossible ideal. We can’t magic up extra minutes to read but we can use the moments we already have. Lots of pictures are the best way to keep a little one on the potty; submergible bath books enable hair-washing and nit-checking too. What a bonus!

By Justine Crow Keep books for daytime reading on the lowest shelf and allow them to select the book they want, no matter how many times it has been shared. If you really can’t stand it another time, have a bit of fun; read it backwards, or upside down, or in gobbledygook. Your child will soon insist it is done the right way up and before you know it, they will be reading it to you!

Books without text such as Clown by Quentin Blake are brilliant for sharing - encourage your toddler to tell you what is happening. Talk about what you both see.

At the library, put your phone away and suggest that each of you dig out a title. Your youngster will often pick one they already have at home but it doesn’t matter, because your special task is to discover one they’ve never seen before. Just think how much more enthusiastic you will be to open it up.

Books for bedtime should be chosen by you and kept higher up on the shelves. Make this a time for your child to listen and be calm and contented - though questions should be answered. Then, it’s lights out!

10. As they grow older, you can be more adventurous and find longer stories, like fairy tales. Soon, you can introduce to them the novels you loved as a child. Perhaps they will want to continue reading a particular chapter book alone but they will always remember the sense of an experienced shared.

About the author Justine Crow is the author of The Little Book of Nits published by Bloomsbury. Parent of three, she owns her own bookshop with her partner, The Bookseller Crow on Hill, and is a qualified swimming teacher. In what little spare time she has, she also runs gastronomic writing retreat courses in France; is the food critic of The Transmitter and last but by no means least, writes our fantastic Families South East book page.

When shopping together, don’t expect a young child to choose the ‘right’ book. You decide what to buy while your child rummages through the books on the play-table. Then read one together before you leave. Once they can actually read, allow them to choose their own books.

More children than ever are reading for pleasure Former Children’s Laureate, Malorie Blackman has said she is “delighted” at figures released by the National Literacy Trust that show that increasing numbers of UK schoolchildren are choosing to read in their spare time and are developing a love of books as a result. The Trust asked 32,000 eight to 18 year-olds about their reading habits; favourites mentioned included The Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney and Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games. 40% of the children questioned thought reading was “cool”, while only 10% said they did not enjoy it.

families south east - november / december 2015

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The Bookseller Crow

is a fantastic, volume stuffed shop run by some of the most knowledgeable bookworms in the business. Call in for the feel of a real bookshop, or if you’re too busy, pick up the phone or point your mouse at their website for a fast mailorder service. Justine Crow recommends this month’s best titles. Last year I felt that Christmas was a conspiracy followed by an ambush. I sensed it was coming insidiously, like a disease and then suddenly it felled me. This year I have decided to grab my Christmas inner spirit with both hands and hoik it out without squeam, like giblets. I began with some remedial therapy, warning myself as if to a small child, that the event was inevitable. Then employing the allergen exposure method, I forced small doses of festive spirit upon myself. No, not mince pies - everybody knows if you eat one of those before 1st December an elf dies. No, I got the chimney sweep in, poured a glass of sherry, and chivvied the family to give me a list. This was July. In the meantime, for those of you who are disorganised (shines nails), or worse, in denial (makes eye-contact) here are some convenient ideas for what to get the kids. And it doesn’t get easier than a last minute book, eh? JILL & THE DRAGON by Lesley Barnes - Tate rrp £11.99. There have been many stunning picture books published this autumn as exemplified by this old fashioned tale of knights and feasts and fireworks and, um, slices of toast. I especially like the idea of a dragon being instructed in the art of fashion design & trumpet blowing before unleashing his hot breath. SAM & DAVE DIG A HOLE by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen - Walker rrp £6.99. Klassen brings his inimitable thoughtful style to this story of a dog with a bone that needs burying, a pair of shovels, and two blokes with far too much time on their hands. Meanwhile a cat is about to get the surprise of its life. Which is always a bonus. I AM HENRY FINCH by Alexis Deacon & Viviane Schwarz - Walker rrp £11.99. A glorious combination of author-illustrator here as a small bird gets separated from the flock, swallowed by a monster and contemplates the meaning of life from the inside of the beast’s stomach. By no means your run-of-the-mill kids’ picture book. LUCY & TOM’S CHRISTMAS by Shirley Hughes - Red Fox rrp £6.99. This was a favourite at Crow Towers when my lot were knee-high to a pedal bin. Partly, this was because it was familiar, with clutter in the kitchen, sofas that look like you can lose a week in them as well as your small change, mums with saggy tights and scraped back hair, various wrinklies - sorry, relatives - in party hats. Sure, the picturesque days of opportune carol singers are in the past - the last time our door bell rang unexpectedly it was three burly CIDs with an arrest warrant for somebody we’d never heard of, and they didn’t look inclined to treat us to an earnest version of Silent Night - but in this larger format re-issue, Hughes gives us a lovely painterly snapshot of Christmas as most of us recognise it. I’m a sucker for James Mayhew’s diminutive art-loving heroine. In KATIE’S LONDON CHRISTMAS, Orchard rrp £6.99, she lends Santa a hand as he flies over famous landmarks distributing the yuletide loot. Watch out for the Shard Rudolf, snag your reins on that and you’ll know about it. DINOSAUR CONSTRUCTION KIT by Susie Brooks & Jonathan Woodward - Egmont rrp £12.99. This’ll keep them off the X-box on the big day. No glue required to bring this easy-to-assemble Jurassic daddy of them all to life. And who knows, it may bring that other pre-historic daddy back to life too. In other words: Gerroff the settee and play with the kids. THE ADVENTURE OF WATER by Dr Malcolm Rose & Sean Sims - Egmont rrp £14.99. Ah, a subject close to my heart. And as a swimming teacher who instructs from within gallons of the stuff, also close to my midriff. But where does it come from? How much is out there? Why on earth do we need it? And when will they leave the hot tap on in that ruddy pool? The thermostat in the place I teach is set permanently to ‘character building.’ And I think they missed a trick though by not offering the book with a free snorkel. THE USBORNE BIG BOOK OF COLOURS by Felicity Brooks & Claire Ever - Usborne rrp £9.99. A board book that does exactly what it says on the tin. Except that there’s a lot more to it than that. It’s bigger than a tin for a start. And another on the same subject, COLOURS, Frances Lincoln, rrp £11.99, by the queen of paper tearing, Susan Stegall, depicts sturdy vehicles of different hues and a rather pleasing turney-roundy thing at the back so that you can mix the colours yourself. Ah, I see. That’ll be a wheel.

SHH! I’M SLEEPING by Dorothée de Monfreid - Gecko rrp £7.99. Someone tell please Father Christmas that this brilliant long board book featuring two very tall bunkbeds and bunch of monkey trousers who can’t get to sleep will fit perfectly in a stocking. WALK THIS WORLD AT CHRISTMAS TIME by Debbie Powell Templar rrp £14.99. A lift-the-flap primer on how and why they celebrate around the globe, just incase the meaning is lost in the discarded wrapping paper. I speak as someone whose toddler son had a light-bulb moment in his car seat as we were driving down the Purley Way, mighty dread and commercialised Xmastastic glory shining all around, when he suddenly yelled unprompted, voice charged with wonder: “There was a baby in the sky and his name was Joseph!” Obviously, we now remind him of this every year. FASHION FROM HEAD TO TOE by Becca Stadlander - Wide Eyed Editions rrp £12.99. Visiting an extraordinary array of outfits through the ages, this is the ideal present for the budding clothes-horse in your house. Fortunately the style police tend not to patrol our area on Christmas Day because they’d be overrun with dazzling Christmas jumpers and enough static to render tazers obsolete. EN BROGUE: THE TRAINERS GUIDE by Hannah Rochell, Salt Yard, rrp £10 is definitely not for a festive stroll in South Norwood Country Park. For the more discerning wearers of the genre, it’s a stocking filler (there’s a pun there somewhere but I can’t be fagged to find it) for those who know their Pro Keds from their Onitsuka Tigers, but strangely it doesn’t feature plimmies from Peacocks. TO THE EDGE OF THE UNIVERSE by Raman Prinja - Carlton rrp £12.99. Blimey, four metres (count ‘em) of fold out planets here, from earth to the very outer limits of space with “infographics” (is this Martian speak?) and facts to keep your seven and ups focussed on just how, in the grand scheme of things, insignificant they really are. A BOY CALLED CHRISTMAS by Matt Haig - Canongate rrp £9.99. This versatile author who even has his own Wiki page a measure of significance in the aforementioned grand scheme, perhaps? - has popped his particular, peculiar view of life into a novel about a boy who believes in magic even if nobody else does. I recently came across a wonderful quote purportedly from him: “I like to think that books are just trees having a dream.” I’ll take that. Makes no sense with a prosiac e-reader, mindyou. I like the look of JACKDAW & THE RANDOMS by Stuart David, Hot Key rrp £6.99 because I’m predisposed to any title containing all things corvine. Plus the author used to be in, it says here, Belle & Sebastian - is that a popular beat combo? There’s an elegant new imprint from Barrington Stoke, the publishers who have done much to help readers who find navigating the land of literature a challenge, called Conkers. Very apt as I have to say both CLARE & HER CAPTAIN, Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Catherine Rayner, rrp £10.99 and THE SEAL’S FATE, Eoin Colfer, illustrated by VictorAmbrus, rrp £7.99, are crackers and possibly the most attractive novellas I’ve had on the counter all year. FUNNY! by John Lasseter & Jason Katz - Chronicle rrp £18.99. Probably the one book this season that would suit all ages, from 4 to 104. Your go-to gift. The default. Classic moments from all the Pixar movies with doodles & illustrations and lots of beautiful behind-the-scenes stuff. Everyone has a favourite, no? Mine has to be Sully speaking Stubbins Dutch out of the corner of his mouth in Monsters Inc. So there you have it. Some tips from the Mistress of Yule. Oh and by the way, all of the above, like the rest of your presents, should surely be bought from a real live shop and not from tax dodging web-chancers because it is also true that each time you commit the spiritless act of obtaining a gift from somewhere other than your local high street, an elf also dies. In excruciating pain. Oh heck, I can feel the allergen exposure therapy wearing off. Pour me another sherry Trasha, there’s a love.

The Bookseller Crow, 50 Westow St. Crystal Palace, London SE19 3AF Telephone: 020 8771 8831 email: info@booksellercrow.co.uk www.booksellercrow.co.uk familiesse.co.uk

october 2015 november / december 2015 -- families families south south east east

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just williams’

Just Williams Toys is a much-loved local chain of family run toystores in Beckenham, Herne Hill, East Dulwich and Clapham South. Established in 2003, Just Williams was a shortlisted Toy Shop of the year in 2014 and is shortlisted for the Progressive Pre-School Awards 2015 for the Best Independent Retailer. Families asked owner Vicky Brown for her top recommendations for Christmas. She told us: “Every year there are the latest must-haves which are highly advertised but these are not necessarily the items that our customers come to us for. We aim to have a range of new products.”

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I DO 3D Deluxe Studio - £39.99 Draw in 3D and create amazing multi-colour 3D masterpieces! Draw, set and connect using the UV light included, you can even draw in the air. Design like a pro with the 3D templates and accessories included, or let your imagination run free. This kit makes up to 40 unique 3D projects and includes 8 coloured I DO 3D pens! Suitable for ages 6 years and above. Starter sets from £8.99. Xeno - £79.99 / Xeno Puppies - £39.99 Xeno is a loveable, friendly baby monster who really reacts and plays with you! Xeno has a wide range of movements and emotions and animated eyes with over 40 different expressions. Interact with him by looking after him, playing a variety of mini-games or via the dedicated app. Comes in an assortment of colours. Age 5+. Trivia Tower Challenge - £24.99 The fun, trivia based game will have you building your knowledge in no time! See how high you can stack the tower choosing colours based on questions at the roll of the coloured dice. Use the question discs to actually build the tower and keep it from toppling! Can be played in different ways to suit all abilities. For the younger players, it’s just as fun to play as a colourful and simple game of stacking and balance. Age 5+.

Boppi Bike - £29.99 Great for little ones to perfect their sense of balance; the Boppi Wooden Balance Bike is made from eco-friendly birch plywood and is lightweight with an adjustable seat. It is amazing how quickly children learn to ride a bike without stabilisers after using a pedal-less bike. Age 2-5 years.

WHIPPERSNAPPERSWINTERWONDERLAND.CO.UK WH I PPERSNAPPERSWINTERWONDERLAND. CO.UK 10

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Shopkins ‘Scoops’ Ice Cream Truck Playset £19.99 A must-have for all Shopkins fans, this set comes with two exclusive characters and two exclusive cooler bags. There are lots ways to play and display with the Shopkins ‘Scoops’ Ice Cream Truck.

families south east - november / december 2015

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Underneath the Christmas tree...

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Helping homeless people through the Jericho Road Project Freshly cut Nordmann Christmas trees, starting at £35. Collect locally or pay extra for home delivery. Order now at kingschristmastrees.org or call 020 8690 5121

familiesse.co.uk

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Mini Hornit - £14.99 A light and horn in one - perfect for bikes and scooters. The horn comes with 20 different sounds. TheMiniHornit comes with a remote trigger (to make it safe to use so the child does not need to take their hands off the handlebars) and it comes with high quality alkaline batteries.Featured on Dragons’ Den in February and already won three toy awards (Rainbow, Right Start and Good Toy Guide).

Ferrari Play and Go My 1st Remote Control Ferrari 458 Italia - £29.99 This cute Ferrari 458 Italia with a fun facial expression can simulate the real drive experience with the steering wheel shaped controller that intuitively controls the car left and right. Features original Ferrari sounds, working lights, a car horn, and anti-slide wheels. Age 2+

FootBubbles - £9.99 With Leo Messi FootBubbles you can juggle bubbles with your feet just like Soccer Superstar Leo Messi. Just slip on the Messi socks, blow a bubble with the super solution and start the fun! Watch trick videos and practice your awesome skills. Ready to play? Age 6+. Osprey Retro Skateboard - £36.99 Perfect for beginners looking for their first style skateboard. Great for commuting to school and riding in the park! These tough cruisers are made from hardwearing PU plastic with ABEC 5 chrome bearings and aluminium trucks.

Where to buy:

Little Genius Crafts are the ‘no mess’ brainchild of Forest Hill mother Michelle Wiseman. With a range of four designs to choose from, the collage kits combine fun, learning and creativity - making them perfect stocking fillers for inquisitive 3-7 year-olds. £11.99; for orders and local stockists, go to www.littlegeniuscrafts.com.

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Doc McStuffin Pet Vet Bag Playset - £22.99 Help Doc with her expert diagnoses of the animal ailments with the Pet Vet Bag! The brightly coloured bag opens and closes and features a paw hang tag on the side and includes tools such as a brush, a comb, a pair of scissors, an otoscope, a magnifying glass, a tongue depressor and even a light up Pet Tag to place on your pet toy as a collar or anklet. The perfect prescription for fun!Age 3+.

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More ideas - 10 under £20

Just Williams is open daily at: • 18 Half Moon Lane, Herne Hill SE24 9HU, 020 7733 9995 • 106 Grove Vale, East Dulwich SE22 8DR, 020 8299 3444 • 226 High Street, Beckenham BR3 1EN, 020 8663 6334 • 8b Balham Hill, Clapham South SW12 9EA, 020 3538 6798 And online at www.justwilliamstoys.com.

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A Crikey Bikey harness will help your child get going on that shiny new bicycle. Aged just 12 and 14, sisters Kia and Sky Ballantyne pitched their idea to the Dragons’ Den earlier this year and are now in business. Read their story and order for £19.99 at www.crikeybikey.com. Please allow five working days to receive your order - Kia and Sky are busy packing and shipping around school hours! The Sleeping Beauty Theatre is a magical 3D pop-up theatre with exquisitely designed scenery sheets, props and character sticks for children to stage their own productions of Sleeping Beauty. By artist Su Blackwell and Corina Fletcher, published by Thames & Hudson, rrp £19.95.

Labels4Kids has introduced personalised gifts from Disney, Hasbro, Nickelodeon and Mattel. Your child and their friends’ names can be woven into a story such as Disney’s Frozen or Spongebob. Then there are personalised books, nametags, stationery, water books and more. Or how about a clock to help them get up on time for school! Allow three weeks for delivery as orders are custom made to your personal requirements. Start at www.labels4kids.com/fam2 and click the ‘personalised gift range’ to see more.

h e rne h ill - c l a pha m sou t h - b ec k e nham - ea st dulw i ch

familiesse.co.uk

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5 ff 6 7 8 9 10 Sudoku meets Rubik’s Cube. A Sudokube is guaranteed to fox children and uncles alike while lunch is cooking. £5.99 from www.prezzybox.com.

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Playing with your food is much more fun with a forklift fork, front-loader spoon and a bulldozer pusher. Constructive Eating Cutlery Set, £12.95 from retailers including www.prezzybox.com.

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How cute will your baby look crawling around grandpa’s ankles in these jolly Christmas pudding leggings? They’re made from a soft cotton mix with a thick waistband for comfort, and you can add matching socks, a bandana bib and a hat. £10 from www.bladeandrose.co.uk.

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With all the ingredients to make scented, fizzing bath bombs, Wild Science’s kit is good clean fun. It supports Key Stage Two science as well and there aren’t many bath products that can make that claim. Bath Bomb Factory, rrp £12.99. If you have a hirsuite Hoxton hunk in your life, Chris Martin’s Guide to ‘Beard and Moustache Management’ does actually have some great tips on trimming, waxing and maintaining facial fuzz. Rrp £6.99. Just don’t give it to grandma by mistake...

... And if it all gets too much - eat chocolate. Assorted truffles; one for each of the twelve days of Christmas. Prestat stocking, £15, www.prestat.co.uk.

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Find presents for the whole family from our wide range of Personalised Bags, LEGO Keyrings, Mugs and much more.

Buy online or call 01786 473508

november / december 2015 - families south east

family life All babies to be protected against meningitis

Do you coo?

A new vaccine to protect babies against meningitis B has been introduced for all childhood vaccinations for babies aged two, four and 24 months. Since September 2015, all babes will routinely be given the meningitis vaccine at their regular vaccination appointments. The scheme was delayed by cost disputes but is now the first national, publicly funded programme against this deadly infection in the world. It should protect babies and children against 90% of meningococcal group B bacteria. This can affect babies under the age of one and can be caught up to around the age of five years. If left untreated, it can cause damage to the brain and cause blood poisoning. It can also kill. The Men ACWY vaccine has also been offered to all 17 and 18 year-olds starting university this year.

A study has shown that mothers are more likely to coo and use non-word based language with babies. Dads are more likely to talk in ‘proper’ language. Surprisingly, both approaches are good for your baby’s development and have a role to play in how babies learn language. A team at Washington State University attached microphones to parents of pre-school children and recorded verbal exchanges with their children, using speech recognition software to analyse results. They believe the way women speak to children using high pitched sounds and cooing to them promotes bonding, while the more adult speech of dads gives them a bridge to adult life. Professor Mark VanDam, who led the research, said: “The parents are complementary to their children’s language learning.”

Fatter families Obesity has long been seen as a problem in the UK, but the age at which health professionals are seeing obese children is getting younger, according to a study. Researchers at University College, London, examined data from 56,000 people born between 1946 and 2001. They found that obesity has become much more common and is starting earlier in life. Because obesity is often carried on into adult life, these children are at risk of severe health problems in future and cost the NHS over £5 billion per year. The study showed that while 23% of six to 10 year olds were overweight in 1994, the figure now stands at 30%. Eustace De Sousa, spokesperson for Public Health England, said: “Almost one in 10 children in Reception are obese - but what’s even more shocking is that by the time they leave primary school, this doubles to nearly one in five.”

Unexpected inheritance means divorce settlement altered by Mandeep Clair For the most part, the cases dealing with financial settlements on divorce that make the headlines are those involving the very wealthy, but those concerning the more modestly situated are also important. One of the more common issues that can arise in such cases is that the financial circumstances of one of the divorced couple change markedly after the financial arrangements have been settled, as happened in a recent case. The couple involved split up in 2010 after a nine-year marriage. Their only significant asset was their matrimonial home, which was worth £175,000 net of the mortgage. The settlement made was that the wife would continue to live in the house and, on its eventual sale, she would receive 55% of the sale proceeds and her husband 45%. The husband is a self-employed painter-decorator and earns a low income, so there was no maintenance order. He bought a smaller house with a 75% mortgage. Shortly after the divorce was finalised, his father died and he inherited £180,000. His ex-wife went to the High Court to obtain a variation of the original order. The family court agreed to vary the order so that she became sole owner of what had been the family home. Her ex-husband appealed against that decision, arguing that his ex-wife’s needs had not changed, so his inheritance should not be taken into account. The Court of Appeal accepted that had the imminent demise of the husband’s father been known about when the financial settlement was being decided, it would have influenced the arrangements. It upheld the decision of the High Court. In similar circumstances, it may be possible to obtain a variation of a financial settlement. There is no substitute for good quality legal advice at all stages of a marriage break-up. For advice and help with any family law matter, contact Mandeep on 020 8305 4235 or email her: mclair@grantsaw.co.uk. Grant Saw Solicitors offer a first fixed fee appointment of up to one hour for £100 + VAT to all clients in respect of relationship breakdown and/ or issues concerning children. Read more at www.grantsaw.com.

South East London BOOK A FREE TRIAL CLASS TODAY! 020 3793 6843 www.freedomacademy.co.uk info@freedomacademy.co.uk

Ages 3 yrs - 19 yrs

families south east - november / december 2015

familiesse.co.uk

Children’s Activities

Olé Kids

SOUTH LONDON DANCE STUDIOS

Spanish classes for children and parents

Dance classes for children and adults

Bilingual and beginners. Children learn languages through immersion and play. !Group classes across London !Spanish in Nurseries !After School Clubs !Private classes at home !Birthday parties

Enthusiastic and creative teachers Shows and competitions

Free weekend workshops at Iberica Canary Wharf while you eat www.ibericalondon.co.uk

Exceptional ISTD examination results

!Adult Spanish Classes

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

130 Herne Hill, SE24 9QL 020 7978 8624 info@southlondondancestudios.co.uk www.southlondondancestudios.co.uk

MICROSPORT -real sport for under 5 s CELEBRATING 24 YEARS! A fun & educational introduction to ball sports: soccer, tennis, hockey, cricket, rugby & more. Trained adult coaches & lots of classes. Tiny Tots age 2.5-3

Little Aces Junior Champs Grand Slammers age 3-4

age 5-7

age 8-11

fun filled tennis games and activities indoors with sponge balls and mini tennis rackets

FREE introductory session phone

AGES 2,3 & 4 (& up to 7yrs in our Beckenham After School Sportsclub)

07877 391005

For classes in Bromley, Beckenham & BigginHill: angela@micro-sport.co.uk 01689 600992

Established

1979

The springboard to confidence for your child • Exciting physical play programme • Specially designed equipment • Supervised by trained staff • Develops a child’s confidence, balance and co-ordination • First steps to an active life • Great fun! • Parties available

For classes in Sevenoaks, Pembury, Orpington, Dunton Green, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells: jnoble@micro-sport.co.uk 07863 330200

www.tennis-4-kids.com

For more information please call Julia on: 020 8464 4433 julia.forrest@tumbletots.com Classes in: Battersea, Clapham, Dulwich, Blackheath www.tumbletots.com/dulwich

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email: gordon@tennis-4-kids.com

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Donkey in SHREK, Uk Tour

Arts Educational Schools Graduates 2018

CLASSES FOR ALL AGES 0208 850 0516 | info@SLYT.co.uk

www.SLYT.co.uk familiesse.co.uk

Dylan BOYBAND Britain’s Got Talent Finalists 2015

Issy Urdang Academy Graduates 2016

november / december 2015 - families south east

Stress? Anxiety? Fatigue? Insomnia?

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Counselling, Acupuncture, Osteopathy, Cranial Osteopathy, Nutrition, Massage, Reflexology and much more...

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TEN: SOUTH LONDON WOMEN ARTISTS

FUNKY MONKEY KEYBOARD CLASSES

21+22 December, ALLEYN’S SCHOOL, SE22, 020 8949 4116, www.stagecoach.co.uk, email dulwich@stagecoach.co.uk Stagecoach Dulwich is running two-day theatre arts workshops in the run up to Christmas. For 4-6 year olds, there’ll be singing, dancing, acting and props making. 9.30am-5pm on both days with a performance at 5pm on Tuesday. Meanwhile the 7-18 year olds will rehearse and stage a panto in just two days! 9am-5.30pm on Monday, 9am-6.30pm followed by the performance on Tuesday. The workshops are £75 for both days, giving parents two days for final Christmas preparations, with a show to look forward to!

PETER PAN WORKSHOP WITH PERFORM 21+22 December in EAST DULWICH SE22, 0845 400 400, www.perform.org.uk With a sprinkle of fairy dust, Perform’s team of skilled actors, musicians and dancers will lead Peter Pan, Wendy, Tinkerbell and the Lost Boys on a magical two-day adventure to Neverland, with a show-stopping, song-filled performance at the end for family and friends. Ages 4-7, 10am- 3pm each day, £153. SPECIAL OFFER: Quote ‘Families’ when you book for 10% off.

JINGLE ALL THE WAY WITH FUNKY MONKEY KEYBOARD CLASSES 21 December in HERNE HILL and BATTERSEA, 22 December in SYDENHAM and STREATHAM, 0800 107 7949, www.funkymonkey.info Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes fun filled ‘Jingle Bells’ music workshops are a perfect ‘Christmas themed’ taster day for 4-8 year-oldbeginner musicians. And of course, a chance for you to finish that last minute Christmas shopping! All equipment provided. Ages 4-8 beginners, 10am-2pm each day, £40/ £35 sibling discount.

NIMBLE ARTS HOLIDAY CLUBS 21-23 December at HEBER PRIMARY SCHOOL, East Dulwich SE22, www.nimblearts.co.uk Join in with the Festive Fiesta, where each day explores a different artistic skill with professional artists, musicians, actors, film makers, singers, dancers and designers. Ages 5-11 years. Drop off any time between 8.30-10am and pick up any time between 4-5pm with a late pickup option between 5-6pm available for a small additional fee. For 4 year olds choose from two four-hour slots 9am-1pm or 1-5pm.

SOUTH LONDON YOUTH THEATRE CHRISTMAS WORKSHOP 21+22 December, 020 8850 0516, www.slyt.co.uk or email spencer@SLYT.co.uk Two fun days of drama and musical theatre for 7-19 year-olds. 9.30am5.30pm, £75 per child.

Diary Dates for Grownups INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS SHOW

CRYSTAL PALACE FOOD MARKET

14+15 November, BATTERSEA EVOLUTION, Battersea Park, London, SW11 4NJ, www.schoolsshow.com UK’s largest gathering of independent schools, representing day schools, boarding schools, education advisors and more. Tickets are free if you register in advance or £10 on the door.

Saturdays, Haynes Lane SE19 3AP, www.crystalpalacefoodmarket.co.uk Locally sourced meats, fresh fish, fruit & veg, eggs, cheese, raw milk, artisan bread, cakes and hot food on sale in the heart of Crystal Palace from 10am-3pm every Saturday, plus regular events. Listings are subject to change, visitors are advised to check first. CHRISTMAS STORIES, 28 November. Christmas stories from around the world with children’s author and professional storyteller Adrian Beckingham, aka The Man from Story Mountain. Adrian’s tales will enthral, inspire, and send you away on wings. Suggested donation: £1, www.storymountain.eu HANDMADE PALACE, 5 + 12 December. Christmas-themed children’s ceramic ‘paint and go’ tiles (£2), bunting and FREE card decorations with local potter, Beth Mander, www.facebook.com/pages/Handmade-Palace. Plus street dance performances at 12noon by www.palacedance.co.uk MUSIC FOR CHRISTMAS, 19 December. Christmas songs and solo performances from Crystal Palace Youth Orchestra. 2pm, free. Plus more Christmas stories from Adrian Beckingham - see 28 Nov.

BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKETS VARIOUS VENUES and dates, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Nearly new books to buggies, clothes to cots and more, with children’s entertainment, refreshments and local business stalls. Next sales at St Barnabas Paris Hall SE21 on 21 November 2-4pm, and Charlton House SE7 on 28 November 1-3pm.

re:your website re:brand re:design re:launch re:new

re:vitalise your website today!!! lots of fresh ideas for websites, blogs & shops

020 8658 9975 www.lancasters.co.uk 14

TEN: SOUTH LONDON WOMEN ARTISTS 7 November - 19 December, GERALD MOORE GALLERY, Mottingham Lane SE9 4QF, 020 8857 0448, www.southlondonwomenartists.co.uk South London Women Artists is a group of over 130 artists who stage exhibitions, events, educational workshops and publications, to enhance public knowledge of the practice, impact and achievement of women in visual culture. TEN is a showcase of 10 artists, selected from an open submission by SLWA trustees. Gallery open 12noon-4pm Saturdays and other times by appointment, admission free.

MADE IN BLACKHEATH CHRISTMAS FAIR 20+22 November, BIANCO 43 Restaurant, 1-3 Lee Road, Blackheath Village SE3 9RQ, www.facebook.com/madeinblackheath Products include individually handmade and unique cakes, art, candles, children’s gifts, stocking fillers, Christmas cards, bags, scarfs, lampshades, cushions and jewellery. Made in Blackheath is a group of local artisans who work, support each other and showcase their individual products or services, whether that be baking bespoke cakes, making jewellery, sewing handmade bags or interior design services. Open 9am-4pm Friday, 9.30am-2pm Sunday.

families south east - november / december 2015

BAM - BEING A MAN 27-29 November, SOUTHBANK CENTRE, Belvedere Road SE1 8PX, 0844 847 9911, www.southbankcentre.co.uk Being A Man addresses the challenges and pressures of masculine identity in the 21st century. Now in its second year, BAM is taking over the Southbank Centre for conversations and the sharing of stories serious, challenging and light-hearted - plus the mandate to discuss anything and everything about being a man today. Free but book first.

SILENT DISCO AT CUTTY SARK 4 December, CUTTY SARK, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT, 020 8858 2698, www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Time Out’s legendary silent disco is sailing down the river to Greenwich once again. Get ready to climb aboard the good ship Cutty Sark for a nose around the world-famous attraction before donning a pair of headphones and dancing the night away. Ages 18+, 8.30pm to midnight, tickets £29.99, book first at www.timeout.com.

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LEE GREEN OPEN STUDIOS

LOVE WEST DULWICH

CHRISTMAS AT DICKENS MUSEUM

Events and Attractions LEE GREEN OPEN STUDIOS

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY

14+15 and 21+22 November, VARIOUS VENUES in and around Lee Green, www.leegreenopenstudios.com The 16th Lee Green Open Studios is an opportunity to meet with 47 artists ranging from a Royal Academy exhibiting printmaker to a bespoke musical instrument maker. Artists open up their homes and work spaces from noon-6pm over two weekends to exhibit and sell photography, painting, prints, sculpture, ceramics, cards, drawings, children’s book illustrations, jewellery, textiles, mosaics and crafts. Pause between visits for a glass of mulled wine, coffee or homemade cake, at participating cafes. Many of the artists taking part are within the historic Lee Manor Conservation area. A loyalty card - which is very popular with children allows visitors to collect ‘stamps’ from each venue. Once a card is full it is entered into a prize draw with the winner receiving a £100 voucher to spend on an artwork of their choice. See the event website for the full line-up.

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY, Gallery Road, Dulwich Village SE21 7AD, 020 8693 5254, www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk Museum open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Fridays, from 11am weekends and bank holidays. Drop in on the first and last Sunday of each month for Artplay workshops for adults and children; and ask on any visit for a free family trail. Admission free for accompanied children, £6 adults. Listed activities free for families with a gallery ticket or £3 per child. CHRISTMAS PUPPET SHOW, 29 November. Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling with be re-imagined by Drew Colby, using hand shadows, beautiful light effects, live music and storytelling. Expect laughs and surprises along the way! 10.15am and 1.30pm, tickets £5, book first. THE AMAZING WORLD OF M.C. ESCHER, until 17 January. Escher was one of the most popular artists of the 20th century, renowned for his woodcuts, lithographs, drawings and mezzotints. This exhibition showcases nearly 100 works from the collection of the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag in the Netherlands. £14 adults, children free, concessions available.

LOVE WEST DULWICH CHRISTMAS FAIR 28 November, Park Hall Road, Croxted Road and Rosendale Road, WEST DULWICH SE21, www.facebook.com/lovewestdulwich Support local businesses and get your Christmas shopping all wrapped up while enjoying a fun day out for all the family. There will be special instore activities, Christmas tree sales, art, craft and streetfood stalls, an entertainment tent, Santa’s Grotto and a treasure hunt at Dulwich Books. 10am-5pm.

THE HORNIMAN MUSEUM

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM, Threadneedle Street, London EC2R, 020 7601 5545, www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum The Bank of England Museum tells the story of the Bank of England from its foundation in 1694 to its role today as the UK’s central bank. Examine intricately-designed banknotes, feel the weight of a genuine gold bar and see the pikes and muskets that were once used to defend the Bank. Children’s activity sheets provide fun for younger visitors. Open 10am5pm Mondays to Fridays, admission free. SPARKLING SILVER, GLITTERING GOLD, 21-24, 29, 30+31 December. Discover the Museum’s collection of glittering silver objects and the allure of the gold on display, and then get creative and decorate a gold bar money box to take home. There’s a chocolate gold coin for every child. Please note museum opening times are shortened to 10am-4pm on 24 and 31 December.

THE FOUNDLING MUSEUM

THE CONSERVATOIRE THE CONSERVATOIRE, 19-21 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ, 020 8852 0234, www.conservatoire.org.uk The Conservatoire is Blackheath’s local independent arts centre, offering a broad mix of music, art, drama and cultural classes for all ages. CHILDREN’S ART EXHIBITION, 29 November. Pop in and explore the work created on children’s art courses during the summer term. 11am-1pm. CHRISTMAS CONCERT, 2 December. Join the Conservatoire’s Women’s Choir for their annual festivities, with carols, seasonal songs and more. 11am, free. THE ELF ACADEMY, 9-23 December. The Elf Academy is training new recruits just in case Santa doesn’t have enough elves this Christmas! For details, see page 19. MAKER’S MARKET, 13+18 December. John Payne and Mummy’s Gin Fund join with the Conservatoire to offer an alternative Christmas Market. The ‘Maker’s Market’ champions artists, makers and craftspeople offering a selection of handmade and bespoke items perfect as Christmas gifts. 10am-5.30pm, admission free.

HORNIMAN MUSEUM and gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23, 020 8699 1872, www.horniman.ac.uk Museum open 10.30am-5.30pm daily, general admission free, charges apply for special exhibitions and the aquarium. The museum’s music gallery and hands-on base, regular weekend and holiday drop-ins and workshops allow family visitors to explore the collection through arts and crafts, music, stories and hands-on sessions. All this within 16 acres of beautiful green space which has the oldest nature trail in London and an animal corner. REWIND: YOUTH LATE, 21 November. Crimp your hair, dig out your DMs and join in with the museum’s first 90s throwback night! There’ll be live acts performing throughout the museum, a flashback photobooth, classic pop-up club night and for the first time - a time travelling disco lift. 6.30-9.30pm, ages 14-19, free but arrive early, the first 250 visitors get a free Rewind wristband. HORNIMAN CHRISTMAS FAIR, 5+6 December. Join in festive activities, buy gifts in the arts and crafts markets, pick up your seasonal produce at the Farmers Market (Saturday), take part in family art fun, and enjoy mince pies, mulled wine and concerts (Sunday) on the Bandstand. 10.30am-5pm.

1 December - 6 January 2016, CHARLES DICKENS MUSEUM, 48 Doughty Street, London WC1N 2LX, 020 7405 2127, www.dickensmuseum.com The London townhouse into which Dickens moved with his growing family in 1837 will be dressed for a beautiful celebration of a Victorian Christmas, and celebrated with a programme of events including costumed house tours, a Christmas walk through the streets of London, exhibitions, carol singing and performances of ‘A Christmas Carol’. See the website for the full line up and bookings.

GAMBADO PLAYCENTRE

SHREK’S ADVENTURE CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE

NATWEST SPORTS GROUND, Copers Cope Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 1NZ, 020 8662 6910, www.gambado.com/clubs/beckenham Gambado Beckenham boasts one of the largest indoor play frames in greater London, plus special dodgems and a carousel. Children can play, learn, explore and party in a healthy, fun and safe environment while parents can kick back in the cafe bar. Open 9.30am-6.30pm daily, admission from £6.60 children, £2.95 adults plus a registration fee of £5.50 on your first visit.

SHREK’S ADVENTURE

CHRISTMAS AT THE CHARLES DICKENS MUSEUM

Until 31 December, Riverside Building, COUNTY HALL, South Bank SE1 9PB, www.shreksadventure.com With over 20 live actors and 10 separate shows, Shrek’s Adventure has laughs and jokes for all. Take a starring role in the action, where live action and cutting-edge technology join Shrek and all his DreamWorks pals. The adventure includes a ride on Donkey’s 4D bus, which soars above London on a journey to Far Far Away, and selfie opportunities with Shrek in his festive best . Open 10am-6pm daily, tickets from £23.40.

40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ, 020 7841 3600, www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Britain’s first home for abandoned children and London’s first public art gallery, The Foundling Museum reveals the stories of the Foundling Hospital’s founder Thomas Coram, the artist William Hogarth and composer George Frideric Handel. It houses significant collections of eighteenth-century art, interiors, social history and music. Open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Saturdays and from 11am Sundays. Admission free for under 16s, £8.25 adults. BACH TO BABY, 19 November. These high-quality classical concerts for babies and their families were set up and are performed by mum and pianist Miaomiao Yu, along with other internationally renowned musicians. Inspired by Handel’s involvement in establishing the Foundling Hospital, and performed in the beautiful setting of the Museum’s Picture Gallery, Bach to Baby brings the past alive for very small babies and their families. 10am, adults £10, children free.

SCIENCE MUSEUM SCIENCE MUSEUM, Exhibition Road SW7 2DD, 0870 870 4868, www.sciencemuseum.org.uk Aiming to be the best place in the world for people to enjoy science, the Science Museum makes sense of the science that shapes our lives, sparking curiosity, releasing creativity and changing the future by engaging people of all generations and backgrounds in science, engineering, medicine, technology, design and enterprise. Open daily 10am-6pm except 24-26 December. LAUNCHPAD SCIENCE SHOWS. The largest free interactive science gallery in the UK is packed with exhibits which allow visitors to launch a rocket, turn their head into a sound box and control a magnetic cloud. Ages 8-14, free. COSMONAUTS, BIRTH OF THE SPACE AGE, until 13 March 2016. In 1957 Russia launched the world’s first artificial satellite, Sputnik, into space and just four years later sent the first ever human - Yuri Gagarin. Discover the dramatic story of how Russia turned the dream of space travel into a reality and became the first nation to explore space in this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition. Tickets £14, concessions available. CRAVINGS: CAN YOUR FOOD CONTROL YOU? Until 10 January 2016. Cravings explores the power food has over our bodies, brains and behaviour, revealing how the brain, gut brain and gut bacteria work together to control our desire for food. Discover how not one but two brains affect our cravings and take part in real experiments to uncover how our senses trick our brains into wanting more. Free.

Celebrating 30 years of introducing interviewed and Reference Checked

EVENING BABYSITTERS & NANNIES

call Debbie 020 8650 3232 www.littlemastersandmisses.com Agency fee £99 or £300 max

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november / december 2015 - families south east

HEVER CASTLE

THE BEAR - ALBANY

THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD

MoreWhat’sOn

Wednesdays to Sundays 28 November - 13 December, daily 14-24 December, HEVER CASTLE, Hever, Kent TN8 7NG, 01732 865224, www.hevercastle.co.uk Wander through the Castle rooms adorned with beautiful decorations to discover how people in different countries decorate their homes, what they eat on Christmas day and how they celebrate the festive period. Join in with workshops, look out for donkeys at the nativity scene and shop for gorgeous gifts. As dusk falls, follow the magical Christmas Trail lit by fairies along the snowy path. Journey through the enchanted fairy dell, past Father Christmas’ Grotto into the colour washed Italian Garden and along to the Tudor Garden.

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NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, Cromwell Road SW7 5BD, 020 7942 5000, www.nhm.ac.uk Dinosaurs, volcanoes, precious gems and creepy crawlies - discover the diversity of the natural world through the nation’s finest collection of natural history specimens. Fascinating exhibitions display up to 70 million plants, animals, fossils, rocks and minerals, with a hands-on education centre where you can meet real scientists at work. Museum open 10am-5.50pm, admission free. DINO SNORES, 5 December. Discover what really happens at the museum when the staff and visitors have gone home. Children aged 7-11 years, from 7pm to 9.50am the following day. Tickets £60.

Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200, www.museumofchildhood.org.uk This gem of a museum houses dolls, dolls’ houses, puppets, teddy bears, games, childcare, clothing, furniture and art and photography. Everyday drop-in activities include storytelling, arts and crafts, and trails. There’s dressing-up, role play and an under 3’s area, an indoor sandpit, and regular special events. Open 10am-5.45pm daily, admission free. ONE WAY TICKET, 14+28 November. Half Moon Theatre’s dramatic insight into the British Child Migrants’ scandal in the years following World War II, and the children’s continued search to be re-united with families today. Ages 8-12, free but book first. SOFT TOY WORKSHOP, 5 December. Join maker Emma Skinmore and use a range of hand sewing techniques and reclaimed materials to create an owl inspired by the Ostrobogulous. 10.30am - 4.30pm, £65 (concession £60).

HMS BELFAST On the THAMES at The Queen’s Walk by Morgans Lane, Tooley Street SE1 2JH, www.iwm.org.uk Discover the exciting stories of those who served HMS Belfast; exploring the nine decks where sailors once hurried up and down its ladders, or take a look at the mess desk where her 950-strong crew ate and slept. Open 10am-5pm, admission £16 adults, children £8, family tickets from £28. CRACKING CODES, 12+13 December and 9+10 January 2016. Intercept messages, map hazards on a sea chart and make up your own secret code. Learn about the skills intelligence officers had to have as well as some of the dangers that surrounded HMS Belfast at sea. 11am-12.30pm and 2-4pm. GUN TURRET EXPERIENCE. Immerse yourself in the Gun Turret Experience, a chance to see what fighting at sea would have really been like. Overlooking the front of the ship, or Fo’c’sle, is the forward most of HMS Belfast’s Triple Gun Turrets. Lights, audio, videos and projections will recreate the experience, highlighting the hectic and cramped conditions that would have seen twenty-six men in this confined space at any one time. Entry included in general admission price.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM, Lambeth Road, London SE1, 020 7416 5000, www.iwm.org.uk IWM London tells the story of wars through the recollection of people who lived through them, both fighting the cause and at home. Family-friendly attractions a recreated Family in Wartime house, and creative and object discovery sessions for families on Sundays. Open 10am-6pm daily except 24-26 December, admission free. A WARTIME CHRISTMAS, 20-23 and 27-31 December. Help decorate the museum’s Christmas wreath and learn about how people celebrated Christmas on the Home Front. Have a go at making your own charm for the wreath, inspired by the lucky numbers, coins and love hearts that featured in lucky charms and tokens given as presents during the First World War. 11am-12.30pn and 2-4pm, free family activity. SECRET WAR. From the development of MI5 and MI6 before the First World War, to Cold War intelligence-gathering and the contemporary use of highly-trained elite forces, the exhibition examines the facts behind the secrecy and why the need for secret agencies remains a subject of continued debate today.

V&A MUSEUM VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM, Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL, 020 7942 2000, www.vam.ac.uk/families Explore South Kensington’s beautiful museum as a family with a free trail or back pack, offering puzzles, games, stories and hundreds of interactive exhibits. Open 10am-5.45pm daily; to 10pm Fridays, admission free. THE IMAGINATION STATION, 28 December - 4 January 2016. Create imaginative seasonal decorations and decorate the museum’s tree. 10.30am-5pm, ages 3+, free drop in. THE NUTCRACKER, 28-31 December and 2-4 January 2016. Discover the enchanting world of The Nutcracker with contemporary, pop-up dance performances and movement workshops. 11am, 1 and 3pm, free drop in for the whole family.

CUTTY SARK

ROYAL MUSEUMS GREENWICH National Maritime Museum, Queen’s House, Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark, Greenwich SE10, 020 8858 4422, www.rmg.co.uk Royal Museums Greenwich holds the world’s largest maritime collection. It is housed in historic buildings forming part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site and incorporates the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the 17th-century Queen’s House, and Cutty Sark. The Museums works to illustrate for everyone the importance of the sea, ships, time and the stars and their relationship with people, and is also a major centre of education and research. On Saturdays and Sundays free performances and workshops entertain family visitors, while on Tuesdays preschoolers can make music and play with parents and carers. Open 10am-5pm daily. General admission is free; some buildings, special exhibitions and events have an admission fee. DIWALI: THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHT, 14 November. Celebrate Diwali with a day of fun activities for the whole family. Discover more about how trade by sea brought people, ideas, and culture from all over the world to Britain. 11am-4pm at the National Maritime Museum, free. SAMUEL PEPYS, PLAGUE, FIRE, REVOLUTION, 20 November 28 March 2016. Pepys, one of the most colourful characters of the 17th-century, witnessed many of the great events that shaped Stuart Britain, bringing them brilliantly to life in his famous and candid diary. The exhibition has 200 objects from museums, galleries and private collections. 10am-5pm, tickets £12 adults, £6 children. PLAGUE TAKEOVER, 21 November. The plague bells are ringing, there are crosses on every door and everywhere there is talk of ‘Black Death’. What are the causes and cures of this vile disease? Come to the Maritime Museum for a day of plague-themed events and activities not to be sniffed at. 11am-3pm at the National Maritime Museum, free. GO WASSAILING! 21+23 and 28-31 December at the NMM. The word ‘wassail’ comes from the Anglo-Saxon phrase ‘waes hael’, which means ‘good health’, and was also originally a drink made from mulled ale. Join in this special event and discover Britain’s fascinating history with the fruits and spices used in this traditional Christmas drink. SMELLY CHRISTMAS, 21-23 and 28-31 December at the NMM. Pinch your nose and learn about smelly London and how holiday decorations kept the season fresh before people took regular baths.

THE BRITISH MUSEUM BRITISH MUSEUM, Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG, 020 7323 8181, www.britishmuseum.org The British Museum was founded in 1753, the first national public museum in the world. Each year nearly 6 million visitors pour through the doors to see the museum’s collection of ancient and historical artefacts including the ever-popular Egyptian mummies, or to take in the latest block-buster exhibition. Open 10am-5.30pm daily, admission free, charge for some exhibitions.

GEFFRYE MUSEUM EVENTS GEFFRYE MUSEUM, Kingsland Road E2 8EA, 020 7739 9893, www.geffrye-museum.org.uk Special workshops and quizzes inspire creativity and provide amusement for accompanied 5-11 year-olds on the first Saturday of each month and during school holidays. Places allocated 30 minutes in advance of each workshop. Museum open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, from noon Sundays.

families south east - november / december 2015

THE SNOWMAN - SADLERS WE

CUTTY SARK, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT, 020 8858 2698, www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark The world famous 19th century tea clipper offers visitors four levels to explore. Take in the views from the main deck and steer at the ship’s wheel, meet the crew who worked on board, explore the various cargoes from wool to whiskey, and see how tea was loaded on board through interactive displays, props, information boards and animations. Family friendly events run at weekends and during school holidays. Open 10am5pm Tuesdays to Sundays, admission £7 children, £13.50 adults, from £24 families. Bundled tickets are available with the other Royal Museum Greenwich attractions. CUTTY SARK CHRISTMAS, 5+6 December. Make your own beautiful Christmas decoration to celebrate the festive season, taking inspiration from the cargoes that Cutty Sark carried around the world. All ages, included in admission price. HAWK TALK, 28 December. Join bird of prey specialist, Gary Railton, and Norman, the hawk, on the main deck of Cutty Sark and find out how he helps look after the ship and her rigging. Learn more about Railton’s work and his adventures on the job as he explains how Norman scares off pigeons, starlings and the occasional seagull to prevent them from roosting in the ship’s rigging. All ages, included in admission price. PRECIOUS CHRISTMAS, 29+30 December. If you could fill a ship with one thing, what would it be? Make a mini ship and fill it with something that’s important to you. All ages, included in admission price. WOOLLY JUMPERS, 2+3 January. Create a bouncy, fluffy sheep made with wool just like the cargo Cutty Sark used to carry all the way from Australia. All ages, included in admission price.

FIREPOWER - THE ROYAL ARTILLERY MUSEUM ROYAL ARSENAL, Woolwich SE18 6ST, 020 8855 7755, www.firepower.org.uk Firepower, the Royal Artillery Museum in Woolwich tells the powerful and dramatic story of artillery, scientific discoveries made through warfare and human stories of courage and endeavour. The ‘ground shaking’ Field of Fire audio-visual show puts you in the midst of battle as shells whizz overhead and guns roar. Open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Saturdays. Admission £2.50 children, £5.30 adults, £12.50 families. WW2 GUN FIRING, 12 December. Meet the Living History team who will be in World War 2 uniform, showing visitors how a gun crew works and firing a 2 Pound Anti Tank Gun. 10.30am-4pm, free.

FULHAM PALACE FULHAM PALACE, Bishop’s Avenue, Fulham SW6 6EA, 020 7736 3233, www.fulhampalace.org The Museum of Fulham Palace charts the long history of the palace site, from Prehistoric times and Roman settlement, through Medieval, Tudor, Georgian and Victorian bishops to the present day. The museum collection includes paintings, archaeology and artefacts. Open noon4pm Sundays, 12.30-3.30pm Mondays to Thursdays, admission free. MUSEUM TAKEOVER DAY, 23 November. For one day only local children and young people will take over the running of Fulham Palace. They will be responsible for everything from room stewarding and manning the Twitter feed to welcoming visitors and dealing with enquiries. 11am-2pm. NATIONAL TREE DRESSING DAY, 6 December. Drop in to create beautiful decorations from natural materials to hang on the branches of the trees in the Fulham Palace grounds. 10am-2pm, free. DICK WHITTINGTON, 13 December. Find out if the streets of London really are paved with gold in this classic tale adapted for a young audience. This is a family pantomime with colourful sets and lots of audience participation. The setting and relaxed atmosphere is ideal for smaller children. 12noon and 2pm, tickets £10, £38 for families. MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS, 6, 12 and 13 December. 10am-5pm, for details, see page 10.

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ELLS

The Tiger Who Came to Tea LIVE ON STAGE

POLKA THEATRE

MR POPPER’S PENGUINS

Theatre, Shows and Music FAMILY SUNDAYS AT THE ROH

CHRISTMASSY CHRISTMAS SHOW

29 November and 31 January 2016, ROYAL OPERA HOUSE, Bow Street, London WC2E 9D, 07304 4000, www.roh.org.uk Explore the Royal Opera House, its artists and the world of opera and ballet. Sundays are packed full of creative and practical activities for all the family including informal performances from Royal Ballet dancers, plus interactive singing and dance activities. Ages 6+, 12-4pm, £5 adults, £3 children.

16-18 December, MYCENAE HOUSE, 90 Mycenae Road, Blackheath SE3 7SE, www.mycenaehouse.co.uk An overstuffed family Christmas show with delightful story telling, fantastic comical and musical skills, featuring a Snowman who lives in the fridge, brussel sprouts, naughty Elves, the first Christmas Tree, and the worst Christmas jumper ever! Ages 4+ , tickets £6 each.

ALBANY EVENTS

THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA

28 December, THE IVY HOUSE, 40 Stuart Road, Nunhead SE15 3BE, www.magicmindreadingandmayhem.co.uk Staged by Amigo’s Magic, this jaw-dropping, rib-tickling show has audience participation, live animals plucked from thin air - and one lucky person will be cut in half before your very eyes. Plus the chance to meet Fluffy the Rabbit and a free Bunny Copter to take home. 2-4pm, tickets £6 children, £7.50 adults, £20 family of four, book first online.

CANADA WATER CULTURE SPACE CANADA WATER CULTURE SPACE, Canada Water Library, 21 Surrey Quays Road, Rotherhithe, London, SE16 7AR, 020 7525 2931, www.thealbany.org.uk ME AND MY CAT? 21 November. Join Detective K as she sets off on an exciting and hilarious adventure, full of mysterious clues, golden rules and strange events. Will she solve the mystery and return the young boy Nicholas from a cat’s body to his own? Using projection, bags of ingenuity and a hefty dollop of fun, this is a fastpaced, action-packed story for all the family. 1pm and 3pm, family ticket £24. CLOWN, 4-19 December. An original musical theatre production based on Quentin Blake’s classic picture book, in which the children’s cast from Theatre Peckham bring the magical world of the clown to life. Tickets from £7 children, £9 adults.

THE SNOWMAN 26 November - 4 January 2016, PEACOCK THEATRE, Portugal Street WC2A 2HT, 0844 412 4322, www.sadlerswells.com London’s favourite Christmas show is back! The Snowman has transported a generation of children and their families into the wintery world of a boy and his magical snowman. As a friendship is kindled, the two embark on a starry-skied adventure to the North Pole, where they meet dancing penguins, reindeer, Father Christmas and escape the clutches of Jack Frost. Ages 2+, tickets from £15, family tickets £110.

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SE19 1SB, 020 8543 4888, www.polkatheatre.com Based in Wimbledon, Polka is one of the few theatre’s in the UK dedicated entirely to children aged 0-14. BEASTY BABY, until 3 January 2016. Mayhem and laughter await around every corner as three people embark on a wild adventure to bring up a very mischievous and totally loveable child. Beasty Baby is a lively celebration of family, growing up and the rituals both children and adults go through in those extraordinary early years of life. Ages 3-6, tickets £12, concessions £9. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, 20 November - 7 February 2016. This winter, a red rose sparks a magical adventure for Belle and her prince in the enchanting classic Beauty and the Beast. Brimming with magic, music and mystery, join Belle on a courageous journey to the Beast’s mysterious castle where she must overcome her fears and discover the true meaning of beauty. But can a single kiss set her prince free? Ages 6-12, tickets £18, concessions £11.50. WIN! We have two family tickets for Beauty and the Beast to be won - go to www.familiesse.co.uk by 4 December and click ‘competitions’ to enter.

!!!! The Times

LYRIC THEATRE SHAFTESBURY AVENUE

WED 25 NOV - SUN 10 JAN BOOK NOW 0330 333 4812 www.thetigerwhocametotealive.com

THE HIT MUSICAL ADAPTATION OF THE AWARD WINNING PICTURE BOOK BY JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER

FAMILY COMEDY MAGIC SHOW

25 November - 10 January 2016, LYRIC THEATRE, Shaftsbury Avenue, London W1D 7ES, 0844 482 9674, www.nimaxtheatres.com The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big furry, stripy tiger! This truly magical Olivier Award nominated production makes for a fantastic family show. WIN! We have a family ticket to be won - go to www.familiesse.co.uk by 20 November and click ‘competitions’ to enter.

“This Tiger is the cat’s meow”

’S ! HE CK

ALBANY THEATRE, Douglas Way, Deptford SE8 4AG, 020 8692 4446, www.thealbany.org.uk CATAPLUF’S MUSICAL JOURNEY, 15 November. Explore rhythms and sounds of the world with Catapluf, whose imagination takes you to places where music can be found in everything: pans, water and even the body. Featuring amazing musicians playing everything from cello and flute, to a host of everyday objects, in a colourful musical adventure. 1 and 3pm, ages 5+, family ticket £24. FLYAWAY KATIE, 22 November. An inspiring flight of fancy about the power of imagination in a show is bursting with colour, movement, puppets and surprises. 1 and 5pm, ages 2+, family tickets £24. DISCO KIDS: POLAR PARTY, 22 November. Hop aboard a passing iceberg and float up to our winter wonderland. In preparation for The Bear arriving at the Albany we’re having a polar party like no other, and you’re invited. Wrap up warm because there’ll be some brrrr-illiant artists including VJ Gemma Riggs. 2-5pm, under 7 years, family ticket £20. THE BEAR, 7 December - 3 January. Ever wondered what it would be like to sit on a polar bear’s lap, ride on its back or give it a bath? Looking after a bear is exhausting stuff as Tilly finds out when an enormous snowy white bear climbs into her bedroom. But Tilly’s not scared. With dazzling puppetry, music, storytelling, and dozens of laughs, The Bear is an unforgettable experience for the whole family and a perfect introduction to theatre for little ones. Pins and Needles are delighted to be bringing to life another of the much loved stories of Raymond Briggs, creator of The Snowman. Ages 2+, family tickets £32.

a musical play adapted and directed by DAVID WOOD based on the book by JUDITH KERR

“A FINE PIECE OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE”

!!!! The Sunday Times “MONSTROUS FUN!”

!!!! Daily Mail

VAUDEVILLE THEATRE TUE 15 DEC - SUN 3 JAN BOOK NOW 0330 333 4814 nimaxtheatres.com

DIRECT FROM THE WEST END FROM THE COMPANY THAT BROUGHT YOU THE GRUFFALO

Based on the best-selling book by

Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler

L ive on Stage

MR POPPER’S PENGUINS 4+5 December, CADOGAN HALL, 5 Sloane Terrace SW1X 9DQ, 020 7730 4500, www.cadoganhall.com With songs, puppets and a family of performing penguins, this delightful musical adaptation of Richard and Florence Atwater’s popular book is brought to you by the producers of ‘The Tiger Who Came to Tea’ and ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’. 55 Minutes of family fun for ages 3 plus.

familiesse.co.uk

! ! !

Sunday Times

! ! !

Sunday Express

!Time!Out!

TUE 8 DEC - SUN 3 JAN BOX OFFICE NORTH FINCHLEY

020 8369 5454

www.artsdepot.co.uk

november / december 2015 - families south east

ENB’S NUTCRACKER

ROOM ON THE BROOM - ARTSDEPOT

THE RAILWAY CHILDREN - KING’S CROSS THEATRE

MoreWhat’sOn Find even more activities: www.familiesse.co.uk then click What's On

THE GRUFFALO

UNICORN THEATRE

15 December - 3 January 2016, VAUDEVILLE THEATRE, 404 Strand, London WC2R 0NH, 0330 333 4814, www.nimaxtheatres.com Based on the famous book, the show has been touring for 15 years, performing in 14 countries and five continents. It has played twice at Sydney Opera House, twice on Broadway, once at the National Theatre and has done seven West End seasons. A perfect combination of songs, laughter, physical theatre and just the right amount of scary fun!

UNICORN THEATRE, 147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZ, 020 7645 0560, www.unicorntheatre.com UP CLUB, Saturdays. Join the Unicorn play club every Saturday. Take part in free activities from rocket building to portrait painting, giant Jenga tournaments, cake decorating and lots more. 12noon-1.30pm. BADDIES THE MUSICAL, 3 November - 24 December. The Big Bad Wolf’s in trouble - he’s been ripped out of his story and thrown in jail for being too good at being bad. Someone has decided to change the fairytale rulebook and no-one seems to know why. How are you supposed to tell who the good guys are when there are no baddies around? Step into the lives of everyone’s favourite villainous characters and find out. Ages 6+, tickets from £16. THE SNOW CHILD, 18 November - 3 January. Once upon a time there was a man and his wife who loved one another dearly, and although they were content and lived happily, they longed for a child of their own. So one day they sculpt a daughter out of snow and something magical and extraordinary happens. Ages 3+, tickets £12 children, £18 adults...

GOODNIGHT MR TOM 11 December - 20 February 2016, Duke of York’s Theatre, St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4BG, 0844 871 7623, www.atgtickets.com Now a modern classic, Michelle Magorian’s wonderfully uplifting tale is brought gloriously to life in this magical stage adaptation by David Wood. Set during the dangerous build up to the Second World War, Goodnight Mister Tom follows young William Beech, who is evacuated to the idyllic English countryside and forges a remarkable and heartwarming friendship with the elderly recluse, Tom Oakley, played by David Troughton. All is perfect until William is suddenly summoned by his mother back to London. Tickets from £15.

ROOM ON THE BROOM 8 December - 3 January 2016, ARTSDEPOT, 5 Nether Steet, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley N12 0GA, 020 8369 5454, www.artsdepot.co.uk and www.roomonthebroomlive.co.uk “How the cat purred and how the witch grinned As they sat on their broomstick and flew through the wind”. Tall Stories’ magical musical stage adaptation of the picture book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler flies into Artsdepot for the festive season, direct from the West End, bringing songs, laughs and lots of fun for children aged 3 and up (and their grown-ups).

ENB’S NUTCRACKER 16 December - 10 January 2016, LONDON COLISEUM, St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4ES, 020 7845 9300, www.ballet.org.uk/nutcracker On a sparkling Christmas Eve in a frost-dusted Edwardian London, Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker doll discover a magical world, where she battles with the Mouse King and meets a handsome stranger. As the air grows colder, Clara and her valiant Nutcracker take a hot air balloon ride across London to the glistening Land of Snow where her adventure really begins. This version by Wayne Eagling marks English National Ballet’s 12th full length production of Nutcracker since first being performed in 1950, its founding year. Tickets from £14.

ALADDIN 11+12 December, ST GEORGE’S HALL, Albermarle Road, Beckenham, Kent, 07510 111 224, www.stgeorgesbeckenham.co.uk A poor boy, a beautiful princess, a villain, a genie or two and lots of bad jokes. St George’s Players return to the stage with a family-friendly panto. Evening and matinee performances.

THE RAILWAY CHILDREN Until 3 January 2016, KING’S CROSS THEATRE, behind King’s Cross Station, Goods Way, 0844 871 7604, www.railwaychildrenlondon.com This breathtaking show features a stage built around a real train track, and a beautiful 60 tonne vintage locomotive that steams into the theatre to delight all ages. A truly unique theatrical experience, The Railway Children returns to London after winning the Olivier Award for Best Entertainment in its previous home at Waterloo. Tickets from £25 and 25% off for under 16s.

RED RIDING HOOD AND THE WOLF 20 November - 10 January 2016, GREENWICH THEATRE, Crooms Hill, Greenwich SE10 8ES, 020 8858 7755, www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk The classic tale of the grandmother beset by a wolf, protected by a woodcutter, and loved by Red Riding Hood - expect stunning special effects, high octane singing and dancing, and a side-splitting script. Written by and starring acclaimed pantomime dame Andrew Pollard, the production will be performed by seven professionals and a chorus four ‘apprentices’ from drama school and musical drama courses getting an invaluable first step on the ladder. Adult tickets £29, children half price.

SLAVA’S SNOW SHOW - SOUTHBANK

ALADDIN 27 November - 3 January, CHURCHILL THEATRE, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA, 0844 871 7620, www.atgtickets.com Take a magical carpet ride to the Far East - in Bromley! Aladdin is guaranteed to delight the whole family with stunning sets, glittering costumes, wonderful songs and dazzling dancing. Starring EastEnders actor Scott Maslin as Abanazar, Channel 5’s Milkshake! presenter Jen Pringle as Princess Jasmine, and back by popular demand, the legendary Bobby Crush will be Widow Twankey. Tickets from £10.50.

SOUTHBANK SOUTHBANK CENTRE, Belvedere Road SE1 8PX, 0844 847 9911, www.southbankcentre.co.uk DRAGON BABIES, November Mondays. Introduce the beautiful gamelan to your 3-5 year-old. £5 for one adult + child. PHIL STEVENSON’S ROOT DOWN, 18 November. Join funky guitarist Phil Stevenson for a grown-up concert your baby can groove to singing, dancing and playing along are all welcome. 10.30am, tickets £10 adults, children free. JAZZ FOR TODDLERS, 20 November. Clarinettist Sarun Ghosh and percussionist Nao Masuda prove that you are never too young to be a jazzer. Ages 2-5 years, 11am and 3pm, tickets £5 children, adults free. SLAVA’S SNOW SHOW, 16 December - 3 January 2016. A joyous, dream-like world in which a cobweb envelops the audience and one tiny piece of paper begins a heart-stopping blizzard of snow, with theatrical clowning and stunning visuals. Ages 8+, tickets from £20.

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL VICTORIA PALACE THEATRE, Victoria Street, London SW1E 5EA, 0844 248 5000, www.billyelliotthemusical.com Set against the background of the 1984/ 85 miners’ strike, Billy Elliot the Musical is the inspirational story of one boy’s struggle to realise his dream to dance against the odds. Featuring a timeless score by Elton John, sensational dance and a powerful story, Billy Elliot is an uplifting and spectacular theatrical experience that will stay with you forever. Tickets from £29.50, family tickets from £105.

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY THEATRE ROYAL, Drury Lane, Covent Garden WC2B 5JF, 020 7850 8790, www.reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatre-royal-drury-lane Roald Dahl’s deliciously dark tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Willy Wonka comes to life in an action packed West End musical directed by Academy Award winner Sam Mendes. Tickets from £16.50.

CATS 23 October - 2 January 2016, LONDON PALLADIUM, 8 Argyll Street, London W1F 7TF, 0844 412 4648, www.reallyusefultheatres.co.uk Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking 2015 Olivier award nominated musical Cats returns to the London Palladium, starring the Queen of British Soul Beverley Knight as Grizabella. Tickets from £20.

families south east - november / december 2015

DR. SEUSS’S THE LORAX - THE OLD VIC

WUTHERING HEIGHTS 13 November - 4 December, THE AMBASSADORS THEATRE, West Street WC2H 9ND, 08448 112334, www.theambassadorstheatre.co.uk Emily Bronti’s classic tale of love, loss and revenge is stunningly re-imagined by Stephanie Street in a bold new adaptation staged by the National Youth Theatre. When Heathcliff, a mysterious child is rescued and brought to Wuthering Heights, he develops an inseparable bond to Cathy. Their friendship soon develops into a passionate and iconic love, which spans generations and ends with tragic results.

THE FAIRFIELD FAIRFIELD HALLS, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 1DG, 020 8688 9291, www.fairfield.co.uk WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD, 19-21 November. Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! What the Ladybird Heard is a glittering stage show ideal for pre and primary school children with live music, sing-a-long songs, puppetry and plenty of audience participation. Tickets £12.50. SANTA CLAUS AND THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS, 5-24 December. It’s Christmas Eve and while most children are hanging up their stockings, there are a few who are not! They don’t believe in Santa and with Christmas morning fast, the cheeky elves need the audience to help. With magic tricks, songs, stories, bubbles and snowflakes, and the chance to meet Santa after the show. Ages 2+. Tickets from £11.50 children. CINDERELLA, 4 December - 3 January. A fun-filled family pantomime starring TV’s Stephen Mulhern, with comedy, singing, dancing and audience participation. Tickets from £18.

DR. SEUSS’S THE LORAX 3 December 2015 - 16 January 2016, THE OLD VIC, The Cut, London SE1 8NB, 0844 871 7628, www.oldvictheatre.com “I am the Lorax. I speak for the trees!” Inspired by Dr. Seuss’s classic tale, The Lorax tells of a moustachioed and cantankerous critter who’s on a mission to protect the earth from the greedy, tree-chopping, Thneed-knitting businessman known only as The Once-ler. Adapted by David Greig and brought to the stage by acclaimed director Max Webster (James And The Giant Peach, To Kill A Mockingbird, Twelfth Night), The Lorax blends theatrical invention, songs and zany humour in a timely and vibrant Christmas show with a message for all the family. Ages 6+, tickets from £12, with 50% off some tickets for ages 14 and under.

familiesse.co.uk

DRAGON BABIES - SOUTHBANK

SNOW CHILD - UNICORN

Colour your world...

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL - VICTORIA PALACE THEATRE

Where’s Father Christmas?

with our fun packed, group keyboard tuition! Small group classes, perfect for 4-11 year old beginners

Here are some south London highlights. For lots MORE Santa's grottos - in a zoo, garden centre, castles, underwater and on a steam train, go to www.familiesse.co.uk

WHIPPERSNAPPERS’ WINTER WONDERLAND 5&6, 12&13, 15&16 and 19-23 December 2015, College Lodge, Old College Gate, College Road, DULWICH PARK SE21 7BQ, 020 8693 1682 or 020 7738 6633, www.whippersnapperschristmasshow.co.uk Visit Santa’s Grotto in Dulwich Park and enjoy Whippersnappers Winter Wonderland. Guests will be served festive refreshments before entering Whippersnappers’ Winter Wonderland. Young visitors can dress up to help elves in a toy workshop, visit Santa’s twinkly classroom to decorate gingerbread tree decorations, meet Moth Starfrost the fairy, and enjoy a Christmas sing-along. And of course, no visit would be complete without meeting Santa himself in his grotto for some words of wisdom and a magical present to take home, before visiting the arts and crafts/ toy shop to collect their finished tree decorations and a keepsake photograph. Father Christmas and his elves will be helping Whippersnappers raise money to support their work at the Lodge delivering activities for children with disabilities in 2016. Children’s tickets £18.50, adults £7.50. Your Winter Woderland experience will last one hour. Five star rating Time Out 2014. Book online by visiting www.whippersnapperschristmasshow.co.uk.

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ELF ACADEMY

9-23 December, THE CONSERVATOIRE, 19-21 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ, 020 8852 0234, www.conservatoire.org.uk Does your child have what it takes to be an elf and work for the Man in Red? The Elf Academy follows a fun dramatic storyline of training new recruits for the Territorial Elf Reserves. The experience is about 80 minutes long and involves the children making an art project, singing and recording a song and decorating gingerbread cookies. Children will also get an Elf Hat, a photo of themselves and an Elf Academy Certificate of Graduation. Parents get a 10% off voucher for food and drink in the café on the day. Under 10s, tickets £15 per child/ £5 accompanying adult.

WWT LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE 5+6 December 2015, WWT LONDON, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, London SW13 9WT, 020 8409 4400, www.wwt.org.uk/london The London Wetland Centre has some handsome, huggable huskies ready and waiting to take younger children aged 8 and under for a spin, plus donkey rides and the chance to meet Santa. £6 per child includes a goody bag.

Read, write & play music to first grade Term classes & holiday courses Herne Hill, East Dulwich, Forest Hill (new!), Brixton To find out more, check for new centres & book a trial:

0800 107 7949

www.funkymonkey.info

Streatham & Clapham OTSchool TJunior S ON TUESDAY

at Streatham & Clapham Prep School

s a great place to meet other parents and carers U a fun time for babies and toddlers (up to 4 years) U an opportunity to socialise and share ideas and support U a stimulating and safe environment U stay and play while enjoying a coffee (or tea!)

Tots on Tuesday takes place at 10 am until 12 noon every Tuesday morning during term time. Prep School 7AVERTREE 2D SW2 3SR 020 8674 6912 www.schs.gdst.net

CHRISTMAS IN A PALACE 6, 12 and 13 December 2015, FULHAM PALACE, Bishop’s Avenue, Fulham SW6 6EA, 020 7736 3233, www.fulhampalace.org Father Christmas will be by a roaring fire in the Tudor Great Hall, ready to hear all your Christmas wishes but be good - he has a ‘naught and nice’ list too! With the Christmas tree and elves’ gift wrapping station, this is a very special and atmospheric experience. £11 per child, book first.

SANTA AT THE ZOO 5+6, 12+13 and 18-24 December, BATTERSEA PARK ZOO, Chelsea Embankment SW11 4NJ, 020 7924 5826, www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk Visit Santa in his grotto where a gift, drink, Christmas treat and picture opportunity await. £6, book first by phone or just turn up. There will also be a fun Christmas stocking search throughout the zoo from 5 to 24 December.

EMY C A2D3 d e c A E L Fn o v rd

ELF ACADEMY

WHIPPERSNAPPERS’ WINTER WONDERLAND WHI PPERSNAPPERSWINTERWONDERLAND. CO.UK

familiesse.co.uk

november / december 2015 - families south east

LONDON’S FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SHOW

PINS AND NEEDLES IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE ALBANY PRESENTS

The live stage show based on Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman Music and lyrics by Howard Blake

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TICKET eOonNL FAMILY, mu e under 16 st includ ‘Walking in 4 tickets Max £2.50 Transaction fee applies. ’ the Air g Featurin

A heart-warming and humorous wintry tale for the whole family, with dazzling puppetry, delicious music, dreamy storytelling, and dozens of laughs.

7 December 2015 - 3 January 2016

25 Nov - 3 Jan

Tickets £10, £8 conc, Family Ticket £32.

Book Online thealbany.org.uk Box Office 020 8692 4446

020 7863 8222 peacocktheatre.com

The magic of Christmas begins

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£5

The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford

Based on the book published by Penguin Random House

Family Art Fun Design, Performance, Digital

for each letter

with a Letter from Santa

With enchanting new stories and even a Baby’s First Christmas poem, a Letter from Santa can bring a smile to children everywhere this festive season. Get your Christmas off to the perfect start and order yours today.

Choose from 8 magical designs!

Visit nspcc.org.uk/Santa Call 0845 130 3073

vam.ac.uk/families Victoria and Albert Museum

families south east - november / december 2015

familiesse.co.uk

Illustration by Marcus Walters at New Future Graphic

Make Christmas dreams come true for your child with a magical Letter from Santa straight from the North Pole. There are eight fantastic new designs and lots of new ways to make the letter personal for your child. All we suggest is a £5 donation to help support our work keeping vulnerable children safe.

Families South East Tel: 020 8699 7240 Email: info@familiesse.co.uk Contact: Robina Cowan MAGAZINE DESIGN: Lancasters 020 8658 9975 www.lancasters.co.uk Printed on paper from sustainable forests. www.russellpress.com

“Sheer theatrical magic. Go see The Snowman and melt”