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Education Family Health Early Years New Year Resolutions
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January/February 2021
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Familiesonline.co.uk January/February 1
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CONTENTS
In This Issue
Welcome
4
Education
8
New Year’s Resolutions for Kids
10
Activities: Crafts
12
Early Years
We have the dark, chilly days of winter to get through but it’s a great time to make some New Year’s resolutions that will get the family’s health back on track, mentally and physically. Check out our great health tips and ideas, as well as a fabulous ‘pull out’ New Year’s resolutions chart for kids on page 8.
14
Outdoor Activities
Hang in there – better times are coming!
16
Health
Where is Families North West London?
20 Family Life 21
Activities: Cooking
24 Online Classes
Get in touch Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.
Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west. You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know.
Competition Winners Santa’s Lapland Holiday – Julia Cockwill Elfie’s Christmas Advent Letters Story Bundle Cheryl Davenport-Thomas Runners up: Loli Carballo, Rebecca Castle, Lisa Brennan, Claire Brown, Susan Turner
Families Magazine turns 30!
To celebrate, we have FREEBIES for YOU! -In
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IN THIS ISSUE
Easter activities & What’s Ons for * Win chocolates Mother’s Day & family day out tickets * Play café guide * School open days * Reader offers
2020 Issue 10 March/April
estkent.co.uk email: editor@familiesw
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Magazine January/February 3
EDUCATION
Classic Free Audio Books for Kids A great way to introduce your child to these classic stories with no cost attached.
By Carlo Collodi. Ages 3+.
The Wind in the Willows
By Kenneth Grahame. Ages 6+.
When We Were Very Young
The Secret Garden
The Railway Children
Peter Pan
Adventures of Pinocchio
By Frances Hodgson Burnett. Ages 8+.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland By Lewis Carroll. Ages 4+.
4 January/February
By E. Nesbit. Ages 8+.
Aesop’s Fables Ages 4+.
By A.A. Milne. All ages.
By J.M. Barrie. Ages 8+.
The Swiss Family Robinson
By Johann David Wyss. Ages 7+. Familiesonline.co.uk
EDUCATION
Books for Navigating Tricky Times By Smriti Halls
A book can be a friend in lonely times, a delightful escape, a comfort blanket to wrap around us when the going gets tough. As a parent, sharing this understanding with your children is one of the best gifts you can give them. Find out how. READ MORE
REDDIFORD SCHOOL Long Established Reputation for Academic Excellence Latest date for registration for 7+ (Yr3 Sept 21) assessments is 5th February 2021. Accepting registrations for Pre School & Reception 2021.
Calling all young Scientists!
Help us discover how babies & kids learn! We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at the Birkbeck Babylab in central London. Our prime location is easy to reach and we refund travel expenses. We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies 020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk
How to Improve your Child’s Concentration
By Gail Hugman
An independent day school for boys and girls aged 2 years 9 months to 11
4th IN THE TOP 100 INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS (Sunday Times 2019)
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To visit the school, please contact:
The Admissions Secretary, Reddiford School, 38 Cecil Park, Pinner, Middx, HA5 5HH. Tel: 020 8866 0660 • Email: admissions@reddiford.org.uk
Established. 1913
www.reddiford.co.uk Registered Charity Number: 312641 Familiesonline.co.uk
If ever there was a time to help your child improve their learning skills, it’s now! Even without disrupted routines, many young children need help developing the skills of listening and concentration required in the classroom. Here’s how you can help your child. READ MORE January/February 5
EDUCATION
Learning Challenges for Kids From Bella Learning, these are open-ended, purposeful tasks, differentiated by age, that your child can do as part of home-schooling or at the weekend.
Challenge 1
Challenge 2
Challenge 3
Create a poster.
Create a rainbow collage.
Audit your toys.
Challenge 4
Challenge 5
Challenge 6
Celebrate a story.
Make a family tree.
Make a sunshine picture.
Challenge 7
Challenge 8
Challenge 9
Create an observation chart. 6 January/February
Interview a relative.
Make a treasure hunt.
Familiesonline.co.uk
EDUCATION
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January/February 7
My New Year’s Resolutions!
CHRISTMAS
This year I want to:
This year I need to:
This year I am going to start:
This year I am going to stop:
This year I am going to learn:
Signed.................................
Magazine
8 January/February
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD
Familiesonline.co.uk
JOIN IN
Save the Date For Wear A Hat Day ©Venture Studios
Join thousands of families and create entertaining hat-themed fundraising events to help find a cure for brain tumours.
After a very challenging year, we know that Wear A Hat Day 2021 is perfectly timed to become a huge event, bringing hope and inspiring Calling all families across the country: join us on Friday 26 March the nation like never before! to take part in one of the UK’s Thanks to the brilliant charity biggest and most important brain partnership with Venture Studios, tumour research fundraising and we’ve been gifted with inspirational awareness-raising days. and uplifting portraits of key worker families who, despite having their own devastating brain tumour ONLINE FINE ART stories, are determined to show CLASSES the joy and positivity that is being For children aged 5-18 (and adults) involved in Wear A Hat Day. Imaginative skills and technique based, two way tuition in small groups
FREE class available (Quote FMN21) Sibling discounts and other member benefits apply
Let them develop a love of art that will last a lifetime! E: blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com to find out more BlankCanvasArtClub blankcanvas.art.club
Register to take part. Join us at Coates Way Nursery! A happy place where your child will be supported and nurtured, in partnership with yourselves Our experienced teacher-led nursery class lays a solid foundation for your child through fun & practical activities
Come and see for yourself!
Now offering 30 hours FREE for qualifying* families!
Get in touch admin@coatesway.herts.sch.uk or 01923 670341 to make an appointment to visit “I have had two of my children at the Nursery and both have been very happy and are always excited to go in every morning. My youngest, who is there at the moment, has learnt an incredible amount in such a short space of time. The teaching staff are always lovely and have great connections with the children.” – a local parent
based in Garston, Watford WD25
www.coatesways.herts.sch.uk Familiesonline.co.uk
January/February 9
ACTIVITIES
Fabulous Crafts to Celebrate Chinese New Year 11-26 February
Easy Chinese Lantern
Egg Carton Dragon Dancing Puppet
Paper Dragon Slinkie
Dragon Mask
Chinese Lantern Suncatcher
Chinese Fan
Panda Paper Bag Puppet
Year of Ox Headband
Year of Ox Paper Plate
10 January/February
Familiesonline.co.uk
ACTIVITIES
Get Moving with our Family Dance Party Playlist!
A-B-C, Easy as 1-2-3! ABCmouse.com
Happy Pharrell Williams (feat. Minions)
Can’t Stop the Feeling! Justin Timberlake
Gangnam Style PSY
Twist & Shout The Beatles
YMCA Village People
Dancing Queen ABBA
Who Let the Dogs Out Baha Men
Roar! Katy Perry
Familiesonline.co.uk
January/February 11
EARLY YEARS
Best Nursery Rhymes & Action Songs for Pre-Schoolers
Little Peter Rabbit Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush
Baby Shark
Finger Family Song
Little Bo Peep
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
Little Miss Muffet
The Ants Go Marching
Itsy Bitsy Spider
12 January/February
Familiesonline.co.uk
EARLY YEARS
The Benefits of Nursery and Things to Consider
The Lowdown on Potty Training
By Gabrielle Nash
By Andrew Campbell
Choosing good quality childcare is one of the most important decisions parents make. So whether you are assessing options for returning to work or considering part time childcare for your toddler, a nursery may be what you need. So what factors should you consider? READ MORE
There are various potty training methods and none of them are right or wrong! Each comes with advantages and disadvantages. So it’s important to consider what style is the best fit for your family. Slow and gentle, get it over quick or somewhere in between…. READ MORE
Working with Little Ones at Home
Bishop Winnington-Ingram CofE Primary School
By Dr Sarah Mundy
Like me, you may be thinking that your multi-tasking skills were pushed to the limit before Covid! Working from home whilst looking after a preschooler isn’t easy so here are my tips on maximising your work time whilst still meeting your little one’s needs. READ MORE Familiesonline.co.uk
Looking for a place in a local welcoming School? Look no further! We are a small school that recognises the potential of every child. We are passionate about our local community and embedding our Christian values. Before and After School Facilities Great teachers and support staff Good Ofsted report
For more information call 01895 633 520 www.bwicofe.co.uk January/February 13
OUTDOORS
RSPB Bird-Related Garden Activities
Celebrate the Big Garden Birdwatch from 29 to 31 January!
Build a Bird Bath
Make a String Bird Go Bird Watching
Make a Flock of Fingers
Build a Bird Box
Go on an Indoor Scavenger Hunt
Play ‘Hungry birds’ Online
Make a Recycled Bird Feeder
Make a Speedy Bird Cake
14 January/February
Familiesonline.co.uk
OUTDOORS
Outside Activities Whatever the Winter Weather Rain
Wind
Float your boat. Make a boat and float it in a puddle or stream. Wet chalk art. Rain intensifies and blurs the colours of chalk for a spectacular effect. Make mud pies. Use old aluminium or plastic containers and have a bake off! Gauge the rain. Make a rain gauge with a plastic bottle and keep a log. Puddle jumping. Try jumping over, rather than in – who can jump the biggest? Collectathon. Gather some different sized containers outside and guess which will fill first.
Fly a kite. Make one from different materials and see which works best. Blow bubbles. Let the wind do the blowing and watch them swirl. Parachute play. Make a toy parachute using a handkerchief and toy figurine and throw up. Make wind chimes. Hang spoons, keys and beads from a coat hanger. Play Frisbee. Go somewhere with lots of space and let it rip! Make a wind sock. Attach streamers or ribbons to one end of a toilet roll holder and string to the other.
Cold
Break out the binoculars. Since leaves have fallen from trees, it’s a lot easier to spot birds and other creatures. Take a night hike. Using torches explore your neighbourhood during these dark early evenings. Build a campfire. Bring out hot chocolate and roast marshmallows and cook jacket potatoes in the embers. Go stargazing. Cold nights generally mean clear skies, perfect for watching stars. Hunt for treasure. Look for holly leaves, lichen, leaf skeletons, sticks, pinecones and acorns. Frost art. On a frosty morning, draw or write in the frost on the pavement
Familiesonline.co.uk
Bella Learning Games
Fun educational games to download, print and play.
Reception, Year 1 & Year 2 Packs
Available Now!
For examples, tips and advice, find Bella Learning Games on Facebook and Instagram.
www.bellalearning.co.uk January/February 15
HEALTH
Kids’ Wellbeing Books All books can be purchased via Bookshop.org, an online bookshop with a mission to financially support local, independent bookshops.
First Emotions: How am I feeling?
Don’t Worry, Little Crab
The Worrysaurus
Mindful Kids
A gentle and simple A picture book working introduction to strong through anxiety and emotions for little ones. building courage.
A fun, reassuring tale about dealing with worries, by a bestselling author.
16 January/February
Ollie uses superpowers to overcome school bullies.
No Worries
50 creative mindfulness Interactive self-care games/exercises to activities for children help children find calm to find happiness, calm and relaxation. and confidence.
Mind Hug: The First Ruby’s Worry: A Story Big Bright Feelings A picture book Book adventure into mindfulness.
Ollie and His Superpowers
A perceptive and poignant story.
Worry Angels
Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers. Ages 8+. Familiesonline.co.uk
HEALTH
New Year Family Mental Health Resolutions
Five Tips for Feeling Fab in 2021
By Helen Spiers
By Karlin Sloan
On 1 January 2020, many of us made resolutions with no idea that a global catastrophe was imminent. The impact of the pandemic on our wellbeing is huge. So let’s use our 2021 resolutions to be kinder to ourselves and prioritise our family’s mental health. READ MORE
From the Covid-19 pandemic to the wave of economic loss, personal loneliness, isolation, and deep uncertainty about what’s in store, this is a time when even the toughest of us can find ourselves struggling. Here are some ideas to get you get back on track. READ MORE
Eating for Immunity
Family Fitness
By Claire Winter
By Claire Winter
Maintaining a balanced diet can be difficult in a world where unhealthy and processed foods are advertised frequently and are convenient. But during the pandemic, it is more important than ever to eat well and stay hydrated. How do you start off on the right foot? READ MORE
It’s easy to use excuses like ‘too tired’ or ‘too busy’ to exercise. Exercising through the pandemic, with gyms and sports clubs often closed, is challenging. But regular exercise promotes physical and mental health in many ways. How can your family get fit this year? READ MORE
Familiesonline.co.uk
January/February 17
HEALTH
Support Your Child’s Mental Health Help your child to understand how they are feeling and why with these free downloadable resources from PlanBee.
Feelings and Emotions Cards
These cards will get your child thinking and talking about feelings.
Design your Own Emotion Emojis
Your child can draw emojis that represent their feelings.
Worry Monster Activity Sheets
Help your child deal with their emotions. 18 January/February
Mood Tracker
Children can express emotions they are experiencing by colouring in an object.
Synonym Emotions Booklet
Identify words that are similar to emotions like angry, sad and happy.
Draw the Emotion
Feeling Check-in Cards
Emoji Emotion Faces Cards
Mindfulness Colouring Sheets
Challenge your children Check in with your to think about how different emotions are child and see what they are feeling. expressed facially.
Ask your child to talk about when they’ve felt these feelings.
Perfect to help young minds relax. Familiesonline.co.uk
HEALTH
Six Steps to Good Mental Health Help support your child’s mental health with these steps from PlanBee. Name emotions and feelings This helps your child develop a vocabulary to explain their feelings. Explain the physical sensations Help your child recognise how different emotions feel physically. Understand when/why Once your child can spot/name their emotions, help them understand the triggers. Help regulate Once they understand the source of an emotion, help them regulate. Keep everyone safe When feeling a big emotion, your
Familiesonline.co.uk
child’s brain doesn’t work in the same way as when they are calm. Help them stay safe and maintain boundaries. Once your child is calm, relate Listen, empathise and share similar experiences to help them understand their feelings and know you care.
January/February 19
FAMILY LIFE
Find ‘Me-Time’ and Achieve your Goals
Vegan Food for the Family – By Stealth!
By Carina Lawson
By Louise Palmer-Masterton
The pandemic arrived like a whirlwind, changing the way we live. Whilst it is still here, we have to make sure we and our families are motivated to stay on top of things and enjoy life as best we can. Here are some tips.
In my view, the way to win hearts and minds to veganism is by serving ridiculously delicious vegan food! But children can be notoriously difficult nuts to crack food wise and it helps to master the art of getting healthy food in by ‘stealth!’ READ MORE
READ MORE
20 January/February
Familiesonline.co.uk
FAMILY LIFE
9 Best Pancake Recipes for Shrove Tuesday Experiment with some pancake-making on and around 16 February!
Banana Pancakes
Fluffy Black Forest Pancakes
Vegan Pancakes
Flourless Rainbow Pancakes
Upside-Down Pineapple Pancakes
Teddy Bear Pancakes
Mary Berry’s Easy Drop Scones
Easy Pancakes
Baby’s First Pancakes
Familiesonline.co.uk
January/February 21
FAMILY LIFE
Handling Co-Parenting Differences
The Guilty Parent Syndrome
By Rebecca Giraud and Bob Greig
By Dr Jan MacGregor Hepburn
Co-parenting is not easy, mistakes can and will be made but it’s the effort that we as parents put in that will really be of long-term benefit to our children. After all, loving our children is what we have in common with our ex-partner. READ MORE
As a parent, do you feel constantly guilty? About what you’ve said/done or not said/ done? If so, you’d be forgiven for thinking that guilt and parenting must be inextricably linked. And you would be right! BUT they don’t have to be….... READ MORE
Embracing your Inner Child
Special 15% Discount!
By Ed James, Mark and Nicky Taylor
Despite your intentions to parent your kids differently to the way you were parented, they probably view your parenting style in much the same way. But imagine the difference if you could combine the essential parts of adulthood and still be in touch with your inner child.... READ MORE 22 January/February
101 Questions Answered About Separating with Children has become an indispensable guide to divorce/ separation for parents. To mark the publication of the second edition, enjoy an exclusive 15% discount for Families readers from Only Mums and Only Dads. Use code FM10121 here. With legal help, tips and insights from professionals and parents, this book will save you time and money. Familiesonline.co.uk
FAMILY LIFE
The Impact of Covid-19 on Working Mums By Mandy Garner The Covid-19 pandemic has been hard for many individuals and groups, with working mums, particularly single working mums, being one of them. But the picture is complex. Women dominate in many of the most risky frontline sectors such as health, social care and education and in some of the hardest hit sectors such as hospitality and retail. Parttime jobs, traditionally done by women, have seen a precipitous fall, BUT women are less likely to be unemployed than men and many have gone into full-time roles. Then there is self-employment which has seen a big decline. A recent report from IPSE and Starling Bank showed women freelancers have been hardest hit financially by late payments of money owed to them and the associated mental impact and women-led businesses have suffered disproportionately.
What is clear is that the impact of childcare problems during the pandemic has been most keenly felt by women, with countless studies, including our own surveys, showing women have been carrying most of the childcare/home schooling burden, despite dads increasing their input generally. Our latest survey shows lockdown restrictions and school or year group closures are still causing huge challenges. READ MORE ERS BEGINN OFFER L IA C E P S
S 4 W EEK FREE Classes held
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January/February 23
CLUBS & CLASSES
CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS Capital Connection Chorus female Acapella harmony (HA4). Calling women who love to sing! Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a great group of women. We meet on a Wed night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at Ruislip Community Centre. www.capitalconnection.org.uk. During the pandemic we have been meeting virtually but are planning a move back to face to face rehearsals. Please contact us to learn more. We would love to hear from you. Rize (NW6) Your energy will Rize with your favourite group exercise classes - sociable and coached fitness in Queens Park,68 Salisbury Rd, London NW6 6NU. Call 020 7624 8687 or email queenspark@ wearerize.co.uk to book your first session. South Oxhey Choir Why not join the South Oxhey Choir, no audition required, just enthusiasm for music of all kinds. Popular classic and classic pop. Currently virtual meetings via Zoom every fortnight. Contact: Ann Cox 07852369935 or email:sochoirs@mail.com or annecox0107@gmail.com First Aid MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs. Margaret 07814 191 395 mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk
LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded. (020 7631 6258 www. Cbcd.bbk.ac.uk
24 January/February
Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Classes are currently being run online until we can return to our usual premises in Eastcote, HA5. www.sansaar.org classes@sansaar.org The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An Independent Practice providing an exceptionally high quality, caring and individualised service for promoting the communication needs of children. We offer Speech and Language Therapy sessions within a modern clinic base, nurseries and schools. (01923 824074 07956 994721) www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Guju Tots Swagatham! Kem Chho? help kids 6 months to 5 years learn Gujarati through songs & stories! Online classes on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays with free taster sessions available. Please contact Smitty Hindocha for more details on 07956 385316. www.gujutots.co.uk Phonics with Robot Reg (various) Phonics with Robot Reg classes provide fun, high energy classes which teach early phonics skills to children aged 1 - 4 years. A Phonics with Robot Reg class is fun, varied and educational, and the best part is that children don’t even realise that they are learning. www.robotreg.co.uk Sign Language Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills. Babies 6-30 months. Online classes currently. info@ singandsign.co.uk www.singandsign.com
ACTIVITY CENTRES JAMtots (HA4) An interactive daytime activity centre for parents
with babies and toddlers. All pay as you go with a variety of sessions that include Parent & Toddler Groups, Musical Tots and Gym Tots. www.thewindmillstudio.com 01895 624755. Jungle Monkeyz (HA5) offers a unique Indoor Soft Play Area that is a safe environment for children aged 0-9 years. There are special areas for infants and toddlers, as well as the Junior zone for bigger monkeyz which has a 3 tier play structure and exciting Adventure zone. 020 8869 9717 www.junglemonkeyz.co.uk Rumble Tumble Harrow (HA1) Family friendly, cosy, clean kids soft play venue suitable for children aged 0-9 years. Designated age specific areas, sensory room, café serving hot/cold food and drinks. We offer a range of party packages to suit all budgets to make your little one’s celebrations extra special. Call us for more information 0208 427 8847 or email info@rumble-tumble.com www. rumble-tumble.com The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting activity centre that has just about everything to offer for all ages from babies to adults including classes and courses. Call 01895 624755 thewindowstudio@gmail.com www.thewindmillstudio.com
MUSIC & MOVEMENT Beat Building Vibrant & energising music classes using African drums and funky percussion. Great songs and games get the imagination glowing & introduce the concepts of beats, rhythmic patterns, time keeping & also encourage sharing, taking turns and listening. A wonderful introduction to music and rhythm, Beat Building is fun! 07721 623 171 www.beatbuilding.co.uk Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 yrs with small, Familiesonline.co.uk
CLUBS & CLASSES age-related classes. Classes are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and core music skills. 020 8444 9435 admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk Diddi Dance Harrow & North Hillingdon (various) At diddi dance we enhance children’s endless energy and enthusiasm through funky, full of fun sessions that build confidence, co-ordination and creativity. Provisional timetable from Sep 2020. 07521 454235 tejal. patel@diddidance.com Monkey Music (Various) Awardwinning Monkey Music introduces babies and young children to music in a way they understand and enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum, written by classically trained musicians, ensures that classes are a ‘good fit’ for preschoolers. Parents across the UK voted it “Best National Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity”. Age guides are: Rock’n’ Roll from 3m, Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Online classes available. 020 8427 6595. www.monkeymusic. co.uk OB1 Rhythm & Rhyme Online Our Music and Movement classes are fun and engaging for both parents and children. Come and meet Ozzie Bear and enjoy songs, stories and puppets. Our classes support coordination, physical development, as well as excite curiosity, and are aimed at 3 months to 4 years. We follow the EYFS framework. Join an online class at www.OB1TheatreSchool. co.uk/rhythmrhyme. 07522 405486 TheatreSchool@OB1.co.uk
SPORTS AND EXERCISE All Stars Cricket Gives boys and girls aged 5-8 the chance to play, learn great skills and make new friends! 8 week courses. www. allstarscricket.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk
Enjoy-a-Ball classes - multi sports coaching for 3 to 9 year olds in a fun and positive environment. A perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - ball skills and core skills for toddlers aged 18 months to 3 years. Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Timetable can be found at https://eab-northlondon.class4kids. co.uk We also run parties and camps. All information at www.enjoy-a-ball. com. email northlondon@enjoy-aball.com Everyone Active (various) Everyone Active’s awarding winning learn to swim programme offers lessons for all ages of swimmers, from child classes starting at 4 months right through to adult classes and are available at over 120 sites. All swimming teachers are Swim England level 2 (or equivalent) qualified. All stages are progressive and continually assessed, initially developing water confidence and then teaching children to swim. As they improve, this distance is increased and all strokes are introduced. They also have the opportunity to develop water safety skills and other aquatic disciplines such as Rookie Lifeguard, synchronised swimming diving and water polo. www.everyoneactive.com/contenthub/swimming Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time, Field End Rd for ages 5–11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.45am, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 11.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves,water bottle and a shower proof jacket. Traceyfieldendflyers@gmail.com Harrow Junior Hockey Club (HA1) run sessions for children aged 4-
16 years on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings at The John Lyon School Playing Fields, Sudbury Hill, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3NA. Everyone welcome please contact us for more information harrowhcjuniors@outlook.com Hertfordshire Sports Village (AL10) have plenty of activities and sports sessions to keep your children active throughout the year. They cater for all children between the ages of 0–17 years and offer everything from swimming lessons, Gymnastics, Mini Movers, Trampolining and Mini Boots. www.hertssportsvillage.co.uk Kaishi Karate School runs classes for children and adults in north London. Kaishi has been awarded a Safe guarding kite mark by Sport England. Karate aids self discipline and confidence along with many other benefits. Absolute beginners welcome from age 4-94! See details on www.kaishikarate34.com. Or call Sheena on 0787 550 1674. Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet (020 8201 1084) jlevene@littlekickers. co.uk. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford (0208 123 9346) jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley (0208 422 0676) niro@ littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers. co.uk Sports Academy (WD3, NW7) classes are suitable for girls and boys of all abilities - from the complete novice to the more experienced dancer. Your child will develop a greater understanding of movement and dance, gain self confidence, increase their fitness level and make new friends. Info@streetdanceacademy.co.uk
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CLUBS & CLASSES SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) provide 4 -16 year olds with an exciting and educational sports programme at weekends. Encourage and develop young people to grow as athletes and individuals through an extensive programme of team and individual sports as well as weekly team building challenges and sports 07983392479 sportskids@outlook. com www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk TISKA Karate - Learn the fascinating art of Karate. Classes held weekly in Harrow, Northwood and Wembley. Families welcome, minimum age 4 yrs. 4 week free trial. Call 07739 572487 patel. karate@icloud.com, www. tiskakarate-harrow.co.uk/ www. tiskakarate-northwood.co.uk/ www. tiskakarate-wembley.co.uk
THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA examinations to advanced level. Call 07974 750 224 www.beverleydance.co.uk Huzzah Performing Arts & Mindfullness Come and try our course this school holidays! With acting, singing, dancing and a healthy dose of mindfulness, your little one’s half term will be the talk of the playground. For ages 4-11 at St Helens Gardens, W10. Check out www.huzzahperformingarts.com for more info and for creative, calm, confident kids. 020 39767171. Hiya@huzzahperfomingarts.com JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Truly like no other, with classes available in dancing and drama from 2.5 years – adults, male and female plus an incredibly busy Agency that is always looking for new recruits for TV, films and commercials. 01895 624755 www. jam2000.co.uk 26 January/February
OB1 Theatre School Online offers affordable PERFORMING ARTS classes for students aged 4-18, taught by award winning professionals. Classes are designed to build confidence and self esteem, as well as encouraging skill, creativity and teamwork. We inspire our students to reach their full potential so they can excel in every aspect of life - ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH THE ARTS. Enrol at www.OB1TheatreSchool.co.uk Contact: 07522 405486, email: TheatreSchool@OB1.co.uk Perform weekly drama, dance and singingclassesAbout:Confidence building fun for 4-12s.A unique mix of dramagames, dance and singingspeciallydevelopedto bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept smallto ensurelots of individual attention.Go to perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class.. Venues in Croxley Green, Dartmouth Park, Golders Green, Eastcote, Northwood, Pinner, Harrow, Kensal Rise, Kentish Town, Stanmore, West Hampstead and Wembley. Call 020 7255 9120/ enquiries@perform.org.uk Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA5, HA6) Performance based theatre school for children aged 3-18 with venues based in Hatch End and Northwood. Weekly classes in Musical Theatre, Ballet, Tap, Modern, LAMDA and Acrobatics. www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by having fun! ( Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599 www.stagecoach.co.uk
DANCE Instep School of Ballet (HA/ WD) Trains students of all ages and abilities in ballet, tap, pointe and performance. The school offers examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (ballet) and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (tap), and all teachers are fully qualified and registered with the RAD and ISTD. They produce a summer show each year. Classes in Harrow, North Harrow and Bushey. 07814 793 772. instepschoolofballet@yahoo.co.uk www.instepschoolofballet.co.uk Street Dance Academy (various) Teach children aged 5-18 yrs every weekend during school term time, with clubs in and around London, Hertfordshire and Surrey. Street Dance Academy also teach Adult Street Dance Classes and Zumba Classes in Twickenham every Wednesday. 0800 0236 236 www. streetdanceacademy.co.uk Elina Patrou Academy of Dance (formerly The Van Niekerk Academy) (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations. Online private ballet lessons available. www. elinapatrouacademyofdance.com elinapatrouacademyofdance@ gmail.com 07555861561
ARTS AND CRAFTS Stitch Club (HA5) Stitch Club for children and young people. For absolute beginners to advanced. All skills and interests are welcome. We don’t just learn how to sew, but also how to design, work with all fabrics and to create. We also hold parties and one-off workshops. Weekly Dressmaking sessions and occasional workshops for adults. www.stitch.club sam@stitch.club
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CLUBS & CLASSES All Saints Pre-School Queensbury (HA8) Free childcare for 2-5 yrs, 15-30 hours. Visit anytime Mon-Fri. Waltham Drive, Edgeware, HA8 5PQ. 07985 284 498 or 07958 473 475. allsaintpreschool@hotmail. co.uk. www.allsaintpreschool.com
Blank Canvas Art Club (HA4) Do your kids love Art? Well, join the club! We have online, afterschool classes for kids aged 5-18 (& adults too) offering imaginative, fun two way tuition in small classes from the comfort of your own home. We teach fine art skills and techniques with a varied termly curriculum of topics, explore artists old and contemporary as well as encouraging imagination led work. A FREE class is available quoting FMN21. Member benefits & sibling discounts available. To find out more contact us at blankcanasartclub@gmail.com and check us out on Facebook at Blank Canvas Art Club or
AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/ EDUCATION SUPPORT Academic Primary School Tuition (HA8 & WD23) in Maths/English or Phonics & Writing for 3.5 to 11 year olds at our Little Big Leaders Saturday School, Summer School and Winter School, in our 8th year of success. Tutors support and challenge pupils to improve their learning, and have a track record in enabling pupils to demonstrate progress in their mainstream setting and/or in 5+, 7+ and 11+ examinations. Childcare vouchers accepted. Free trial lessons. Call 020 3637 6266. www.littlebigleaders.com
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DiscoG Coding Classes and Camps (various) Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses are also available. Gerard on 07767 300940 info@discogcodingacademy.com www.discogcodingacademy.com Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time adjacent to Field End Junior School, Field End Road, Eastcote, HA4, for children aged 5 – 11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.15am and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 11.30 (break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves, water bottle and a shower proof jacket. Contact Tracey at fieldendflyers@gmail.com Integratedbrain - Improve Coordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration. Usha Patel 07766 837 616 ushapatel.raviv@gmail.com www.integratedbrain.co.uk Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and nonverbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. 07985 588 085 knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk
Little Big Leaders in English, Maths, Science, Phonics, online or face-to-face at Little Big Leaders Saturday Schools and Holiday Schools. Support, challenge, intensive courses and prep for National Curriculum, 4+, 5+, 7+, SATS, 11+, GCSEs and A Levels, including resits. Childcare vouchers accepted. Call 020 3637 6266 or info@littlebigleaders.com www.littlebigleaders.com The Learning Wheel (Eastcote) Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular reports. All levels up to Year 11. www.numberworksnwords.co.uk Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course. Improve reading age by 1 year in 3 months of home based work. The computer interventions is similar to having a tutor in your home with daily monitoring and feed back. Usha Patel on 07766 837 6168 info@ ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist). Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent of the students on the courses have achieved success. www.susandaughtreyeducation. com 020 7683 0734 Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA2) Get ready for school and learn to type faster with our tutor supported online touch typing courses. For Adults/Kids Age 10+. Choose your course: Fast track (2 Week course) or Slower Pace (12 week course). Call 020 8434 7111. www.touchtypeit.co.uk
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