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09/07/2021

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Hawkesdown House School & The Walnut Tree Nursery A Preparatory & Nursery School for boys and girls aged 2-11, Kensington W8

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Start your child’s learning journey in our welcoming Nursery from age 3+

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Nursery & Preparatory School for boys & girls from 3 to 11 years Nursery – new ‘mornings only’ option for first term.

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...endless ideas for families of young children in

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Chiswick • Ealing • Hammersmith • Kensington • Maida Vale Notting Hill • Uxbridge

News & information

EDUCATION 6

Open days

7

Back to school anxiety

9

Dyslexia awareness

10 Tips for a successful parent’s evening

EARLY YEARS

11 What you need to know about the EYFS framework PARENTING 12

Black history month

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Clubs news

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Welcome to the Sept/Oct Back to School issue!

We hope you have managed to have a good summer break and get away from it all on a holiday somehow! Hopefully the children are now feeling refreshed and ready to tackle a new school year. You may be interested to read about ‘Back to School Anxiety’ on page 7 or ‘What you need to know about the Early Years Framework’ on page 11. We also have our regular Open Days diary piece on page 6. Plus, we have managed to pull together our ‘What’s On’ pages throughout Sept and Oct too, so do be sure to check out pages 14 and 15.

We hope you enjoy it!

Anna & Rach Editors:

Rachel Bailey Anna Collins 01628 788058 Editor@FamiliesWest.co.uk www.Familiesonline.co.uk

Next Issue:

Nov/Dec 2021 Tel: 01628 788058 Circulation: 16,000 Cover image: depositphotos.com

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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 Birkbeck’s Babylab & ToddlerLab in central London. Our prime locations are 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

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News News&&Information Views

New venue in Notting Hill for Yellowbird Education

After their great success in Fulham, Yellowbird Education have opened at a new location; Notting Hill Preparatory School. They are continuing to provide inspiring children’s workshops over each holiday. These include Creative Writing for ages 6-11 as well as English Exam Preparation for 7+, 8+ and 11+ exams, including ISEB exam preparation. Local parents have left some fabulous feedback;

Give children a positive introduction to sport

Little Kickers offers four different classes from 18 months to 7 years old, tailored specifically for each age group to give children a positive introduction to sport in a fun educational environment!

Firstly, they believe in something we call ‘Play not Push’.

It means teaching football in a fun, pressure-free environment. They want to give children a positive introduction to sport as a whole, not just football, so they’re more likely to stay healthy and active throughout their lives.

Secondly, they believe football can be educational. Coached in the right way it can stimulate imagination and aid early development skills such as learning colours and numbers, following instructions and playing as a team.

Their classes operate in both indoor and outdoor locations in Ealing, Northfields, Hanwell, Hayes, Northolt, Uxbridge and Hillingdon.

Ealing@LittleKickers.co.uk / 07813649054

“I wanted to write and thank you for the wonderful creative writing course. C loved it and has been writing a novel since then!”

“They came home each day excited to share the stories they had written, and were eager to go back for more the next day. The confidence in their writing grew so much in just a week. They also had lots of fun, loved Mr Viv’s assemblies and meeting new friends”.

“Since the workshop my son has invested his own money (and he doesn’t do that easily!) into buying a typewriter so he can keep writing and become an author one day”.

“The Yellowbird camps are amazing. As a mum of a large family, my children have attended all the different camps offered by Yellowbird: Creative Writing, Exam Prep, Handwriting, Interview Preparation and Art Appreciation. The teachers are excellent and the materials are detailed and cover a broad range of topics.

Teaching groups are small so there is room for one to one attention.

The feedback provided at the end of the camps is very useful. My children have made great progress and gained confidence. They always happily attend the camps”. www.yellowbirdeducation.com

Skills for children starting nursery to practise Children starting nursery school this September have spent most of their short lives in lockdown, have been surrounded by adults wearing masks and have had very little experience of being left with non-family members nor have they been able to enjoy play dates and classes with children of their own age.

Eating and drinking is also key.

Encourage the child to choose bowls, plates and cutlery for themselves from a low kitchen cupboard or shelf which is their area of the family kitchen.

Show the child how to become an independent eater and pour their own water into a small glass from a small jug.

To help families with these post lockdown issues and prepare their children to start nursery school more confidently, Georgina Hood from Paint Pots Montessori recommends five skills that parents can work on: Independence, Separation, Concentration, Social Skills and Imagining being at school

Another skill to practise is separation.

Start with having someone come to the house to play with the child and build up the time that parents are away. They will learn that their parents come back.

Parents could look for ways to support the child and help them work towards greater independence, learning, for example, how to put on their own jackets, shoes and how to wipe their noses. Most parents wish their children could be more independent, and by allowing space for this, children will gain confidence in themselves and the world around them. www.paint-pots.co.uk 4

Encourage concentration - sit with the child and read to them. Encouraging the child to listen without getting distracted, asking them questions to ensure they are listening well and concentrating.

Social skills are a life skill and these need practising too. Visit the local playground and guide your children when playing with others using appropriate words, helping them to both learn to stand up for themselves and care for others.

West London Dance Academy celebrates fifteen years West London Dance Academy celebrated its 15th Anniversary on Saturday 17th July at their dance studio in Chiswick.

Due to Covid restrictions the pupils filmed a recorded performance of their story so far, which was followed by cake, balloons and presents for all students. Despite not being quite the day they had planned, Miss Natalie the principal said, “It was a beautiful day and we got to show case our stunning new dance studio, whilst having a fabulous time in our groups”.

For information on classes in Ballet, Tap and Contemporary Modern Jazz for ages 2.5 years to Adults (Beginners to Advanced), contact www.westlondondanceacademy.com

Families West London 01628 788058 familiesonline.co.uk

News News & Information & Views

Join Perform for Confidence Building Fun this autumn term

Local Perform Classes available in West London

Perform weekly classes are packed with drama, dance and singing but have a special focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration. They don’t worry about whether children get their lines or moves right, instead, they use a mix of drama games and fun activities which boost self-esteem and allow every child to shine.

Their magical end of term shows for friends and family are a wonderful celebration of everything the children have achieved.

St. Barnabas Millenium Hall, Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QG 4-7s Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 4pm; Saturdays at 9.30am 7-12s Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 5.05pm; Saturdays at 11.15am

St. Peter’s Hall, 59a Portobello Rd, Notting Hill W11 3DB 4-7s Wednesdays at 4pm; Fridays at 4pm 7-12s Wednesdays at 5.05pm; Fridays at 5.05pm St. Paul’s Church Hall, Ridley Ave, Ealing W13 9XW 4-7s Tuesdays at 4pm; Fridays at 3.45pm 7-12s Tuedays at 5.05pm; Fridays at 4.45pm

Masbro Children’s Centre, 87 Masbro Rd, Brook Green W14 0LR 4-7s Saturdays at 9.30am; 7-12s Saturdays at 11.15am The Advent Centre, 37 Brendan St, Marylebone W1H 5JE 4-7s Mondays at 4pm; 7-12s Mondays at 5.05pm St. Michael’s Hall, Elmwood Road, Chiswick W4 3DY 4-7s Sundays at 9.30am; 7-12s Sundays at 11.15am

The Perform curriculum focuses Perform on fun, friendship and laughter are offering Families alongside catchy songs and funky dances. Class material is readers a special £40 specially designed by Perform, introductory discount... with apps, downloads and videos for the children to enjoy on bookings made by at home. Classes are available 15th October – just quote LW151021 for ages 4-7 and 7-12 with a new T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@ creative theme each term and, perform.org.uk this autumn, they’re taking their 4-7s to Outer Space while the 7-12s will be appearing in Bluebeard’s Bride.

Christ Church W4 Mission Hall, Cunnington St, Chiswick Park W4 5ER 4-7s Tuesdays at 4pm; 7-12s Tuesdays at 5.05pm Holy Innocents Church, Paddenswick Rd, Hammersmith W6 0UB 4-7s Thursdays at 4pm; 7-12s Thursdays at 5.05pm Kensington United Reformed Church, Allen St W8 6BL 4-7s Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 4.15pm; 7-12s Fridays at 5.20pm and Wednesdays at 5.15pm NEW The YAA Centre, 1 Chippenham Mews, Maida Vale W9 2AN 4-7s Tuesdays at 4pm; 7-12s Tuesdays at 5.05pm NEW CLASS St. Dunstan’s Church Hall, Friar’s Place Lane, East Acton W3 7AW 4-7s Saturdays at 2pm

To book a no-obligation FREE trial class at the venues listed below visit www.perform.org.uk/try

Based in the heart of Windsor, Upton House is a thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School for boys and girls aged 2-11 years.

Self-esteem and happiness, we believe, are paramount to each child’s success and we pride ourselves on developing confident and happy children with a love of learning.

Call 01753 862610 or email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk

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editor@FamiliesWest.co.uk

Families West London

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Education

Schools’ Open Days Autumn Term 2021 Please ring the school to check the Open Day or Evening is still going ahead. Also, depending on the situation with COVID 19, schools may need to confirm if events are in person or virtual.

Clifton Lodge School 8 Mattock Lane, Ealing W5 5BG Saturday 9 October 10am to 12 noon 020 8579 3662 admissions@cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk www.cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk

Orley Farm School South Hill Avenue, Harrow on the Hill HA1 3NU Saturday 9 October 10am to 12 noon 020 8869 7600 www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

Hawkesdown House School 27 Edge Street, Kensington W8 7PN Thursday 30 September 9.15am or 10.15am 0207 727 9090 admin@hawkesdown.co.uk www.hawkesdown.co.uk

Phoenix Academy The Curve, Shepherds Bush W12 0RQ Tuesday 5 and Wednesday 6 October (Yr 6 & 7) Above 8.40am Thursday 7 October (Yr 6 & 7) Thursday 11 November (6th Form) Above both 5.00pm 020 8749 1141 www.phoenix.futureacademies.org

Heathfield School London Road, Ascot SL5 8BQ Wednesday 29 September from 6.30pm (Sixth Form) Saturday 16 October (whole school) 9.45am to 12 noon 01344 898343 admissions@heathfieldschool.net www.heathfieldschool.net

Call to book your place now!

Upton House School Windsor 115 St Leonard’s Road, Windsor SL4 3DF Contact school to arrange an autumn term visit 01753 862610 registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk www.uptonhouse.org.uk

EXCELLENT ISI inspection

OPEN MORNING Saturday 16 October 9.45am to 12 noon To book email admissions@heathfieldschool.net

Day, Weekly and Full Boarding for Girls 11-18

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Families West London 01628 788058 familiesonline.co.uk

Education

Dealing with back to school anxiety

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

A new school year can be an exciting time for children; equally, it can prompt feelings of anxiety. For most children, these worries are transient and fade quickly. For some, the anxiety may linger well into the school year, particularly during the current pandemic. So how can we support our children with this?

Most anxieties are rooted in fear of the unknown. A new school year brings change: classroom, teacher, routines, social and academic pressures and expectations. For those entering new phases, change can include new schools, new travel routes and new friends.

Establishing good practice and routines in advance of the new academic year will address some common worries, preventing them from becoming deep-rooted. Make preparations well in advance, make them feel exciting and involve your child. Discuss the school day and let them ask questions. Remind them of the great things about school and reassure them that they are not alone.

For children whose worries persist, this simple five step programme can help manage anxieties.

Take care of the basics. Ensure a good sleep routine, healthy snacks and regular exercise.

Provide empathy. Find uninterrupted opportunities to listen to your child’s worries, expectations and fears. Car journeys, bath time and walks are all ideal times to talk. Listen actively, withholding judgement and advice and validate their feelings.

Problem solve. Discuss coping strategies, ideally led by your child. Showing confidence in their own problem solving abilities will nurture greater resilience.

Highlight the positives. Encourage your child to recognise fun elements and not fixate only on the negatives. Use questions like: ‘What was your favourite thing for lunch?’ ‘Did you ask any interesting questions?’ and ‘What was the funniest thing that happened today?’

Be mindful of your own emotions and reactions. Recognise that they can create learnt behaviour. By staying calm and seeming positive, the message to our children is that they don’t need to worry.

The golden ticket is communication. Making sure your child is comfortable and confident talking to you and knows that you are ready to listen, will help prevent anxiety spiralling out of control.

If you feel that ‘back to school’ anxiety may be something more concerning, then speak to your child’s teacher for advice and support.

Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of EmParenting (www. emparenting.co.uk), which works with schools and parents to strengthen children’s core qualities of emotional intelligence, kindness and compassion and offers insights, skills and tools to nurture their development and wellbeing.

Mastering ‘Active Listening’

Anxiety and when to seek help

Do we really hear what our children say? ‘Active Listening’ is the single most important skill you can have in your parenting ‘toolkit’ - letting your child know that you are ‘with them,’ aware of what they are saying, accepting of their perspective and appreciative of their situation.

Some degree of anxiety is normal and helps children deal with new or unfamiliar situations, forming an essential part of their emotional development. For some children, however, anxiety can affect their everyday behaviour and thoughts, interfering with their school, home and social life. So how do we, as parents, know when professional help is needed?

According to NHS UK, concerning signs to look out for can include:

To practise Active Listening: Give your full attention without interrupting; Ask appropriate questions to make certain you are clear about what is being said; Reflect or repeat back to show your understanding; Keep comfortable eye contact; Listen without judgement, being mindful of your facial expressions; Avoid offering opinions and solutions; Listen with empathy, showing you truly hear and understand.

Open and honest communication can help your children become resilient, responsible and caring people. familiesonline.co.uk

Difficulty concentrating; Interrupted sleep and bad dreams; Constant worrying and negative thoughts; Constant complaining of stomach aches or general malaise; Quickly becoming angry and irritable; Crying often for no apparent reason.

Whist strategies such as mindfulness, calming apps and breathing techniques are useful, do seek professional support if these don’t appear to help. Your GP and/or school SENCO should be able to direct you.

editor@FamiliesWest.co.uk

Families West London

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Education

Understanding dyslexia

By Jane Constantine The majority of people reading this sentence will do so with ease. But did you know that one in ten people in the UK struggle with reading because they suffer from dyslexia?

Most of us have heard of dyslexia but how much do we know about the condition and can we identify the signs?

According to the British Dyslexia Association, the early signs of dyslexia in pre-schoolers can include difficulty learning nursery rhymes, paying attention, sitting still and listening to stories, slow speech development, muddling words eg ‘flutterby’ or ‘cubumber’ and forgetting names of teachers and friends.

Signs of dyslexia in children ages 5 to 12 include speed of processing eg slow spoken and/or written language, poor concentration, forgetting words, confusion with letters which look similar eg b/d or p/g, poor handwriting, spelling a word several different ways in one piece of writing, slow reading progress, difficulty blending letters together when reading, confusion of numeric symbols eg + and x signs and difficulty remembering sequential order eg days of the week/the alphabet.

Identifying these early signs in your child can be very difficult, sometimes beginning with incorrect judgements being made about your child. Two mums, Cate and Kate told me of their experiences.

‘Sebastian got through Reception and Year 1 with no problem’ Cate told me. ‘But, in year 2, his teacher kept telling me that he was lazy and task avoidant. As a teacher myself I was concerned but I couldn’t put my finger on the problem - he certainly wasn’t those things in my eyes.

told it was too early to tell if Rowan had dyslexia and that he wouldn’t be checked again until Year 3. However, I was told that he did have APD – auditory processing disorder. The dyslexia assessment didn’t happen in Year 3 and finally, in Year 4, after the assessment, we started making progress with getting him some support.’

Due to funding issues, Kate feels Rowan didn’t really get the support he needed until he reached secondary school.

‘He’s now allocated a laptop so he can scribe on that. He has 1:1 intervention for English, an allocated SEN team member and access to the SEN room when he’s struggling. The school does assessments with him and allocate him a scriber in lessons, if needed. He’s also allowed to do many assessments vocally.

‘Since Rowan started at the school last September his reading and writing have gone from almost non-existent to a level where he can keep up at school.’

Jane Constantine is a writer and mother of two children living in Hampshire.

‘He started junior school and we were again told he was just a lazy boy who would catch up. I was confused, as his reading was good but spelling seemed to be an issue. With daily work on his spelling, he would pass the weekly test but not retain the words he’d learned.

Tips from parents Cate reports that Seb has struggled with his diagnosis, calling himself ‘stupid.’ The books ‘Mission Dyslexia’ and YouTube videos that explain the condition visually, are starting to help him recognise he just uses different strengths.

‘By year 4, I was working for a company which specialised in therapeutic approaches to learning. My line manager suggested a dyslexia assessment. At the end, I was told Sebastian was dyslexic but had specific issues around attention, working Rowan has attended an emotional development course memory and processing. So we went into year 5 able to explain which has helped him with the frustration of being dyslexic.

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY Sebastian’s struggles and with detailed strategies to support him. My insistence that he have a reader and scribe for tests Ballet, Tap, Kate says: ‘Rowan’s very intelligent but it’s locked inside meant he went from 10/50 in Year 4 to 43/50 in Year 5 for Contemporaryhim and the frustration of that is one of the hardest things reading.

His spelling, punctuation, and maths also WEST LONDON DANCEgrammar ACADEMY for him to deal with.’ improved – although not to the same level.’ and Jazz

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for all Kate fought similar battlesContemporary for her son, Rowan. ‘In Year 1, Iclasses was ages in

and Jazz Chiswick. classes for all in WEST LONDONages DANCE ACADEMY We are so happy This is where it all begins……

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Ballet, Tap, Contemporary and Jazz classes for all ages to in Chiswick. back!ACADEMY WEST LONDONbe DANCE CE ACADEMY All of our Teachers are fully

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Contemporary Our studios now have COVID-SAFE and Jazz mporary All of our Teachers are fully measures in place . classes for all zz qualified and DBS certified. ages in We are so happy Email: Natalieparnell.wlda@gmail.com Mars Montessori Chiswick. s for allOur studios now have COVID-SAFE to be back! in Angel measures in place . visit:westlondondanceacademy.com n Ages 18 months – 4 years This is where it all begins……

We All are so Teachers happy of our are fully qualified and DBS certified. Fully equipped dance Contact :07795578781.

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editor@FamiliesWest.co.uk

Families West London

9

Education

Top tips for a positive Parents’ Evening

By Annabel Gray Despite the sore throat and spinning head by the end of the event, as a teacher, I used to love Parents’ Evening. Those ten minutes can make all the difference to a child’s experience and outcomes at school.

To get the most out of those precious minutes, my biggest piece of advice to parents is: be prepared!

Attend. Yes, this may be obvious but it is vital that you make time to attend - be it in person or online - and to show your child that you value their learning. Personally, I always liked it when the children attended too; we are talking about them after all.

Smile. The teacher you are meeting spends just as much time as you do with your child and will know them very well. Make them feel at ease and create a positive vibe from the outset by being friendly.

Come armed with questions. The most productive meetings are when the parent brings all the queries they have to the meeting so they can be ironed out quickly. What do you want to know? Their level? Their test results? How they interact with others? How confident they are? What the homework is about?

How to do long division? This is your chance! Don’t waste it!

Celebrate their work. Pandemic-permitting, let your child take you round and show you the work they have done on display.

Look at their books too. Most parents are surprised at the quality of the work their children do at school. Tell them they are great!

Focus on solutions. Sometimes there might be tricky issues to tackle, from either side of the desk. Try to focus on solutions rather than blame. Teachers want the best for your child as much as you do. If an issue can’t be resolved, book a further meeting at another time.

Be proud. Your kids are amazing! Tell them that!

And that’s it.

Think about how you can work these top tips into your parents’ evening and I promise you’ll feel positive, productive and informed by the end of it. Teachers love you to ask questions and to help them create a triangle of communication between yourself as the parent, your child and them.

Supporting learning Supporting our children in their learning journey is key and will contribute massively to their attitude, enthusiasm and enjoyment of education.

Parents are naturally great teachers and it’s proven that their involvement in their child’s education makes a huge difference to their child’s outcomes. But what kind of involvement?

Life is busy for most parents and they are often stretched for time. This means sitting down at a desk with your child and helping them with a worksheet doesn’t always work out.

But don’t worry! You can easily incorporate the following learning activities into even the busiest of family routines: Read to them; Talk about the time and the analogue clock; Write letters to family members and put them in the post – or even send an email if that’s easier!

Keep small change in a jar and encourage your child to take it out and talk with you about coin values; Play board games – something the whole family can enjoy.

These tips create fuss-free ways to encourage learning – you’d be surprised how much they can help children progress.

Annabel Gray is the proprietor of Bella Learning. If you’d like to find out more about what your child learns at school and how to support them in their learning journey, visit www. bellalearning.co.uk

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Early Years

Changes to the Early Years Framework (EYFS)

FW133 Jan-Feb 2020_FW133 Jan-Feb 2020 11/02/2020 09:50 Page 15

By Emma Lewry A new Early Years Framework has been trialled in the UK and becomes statutory in September 2021. So what does this mean for families with children attending Early Years settings and classrooms?

As an Early Years teacher and former head teacher, I don’t think anyone could argue with the aim of the changes - to raise outcomes and to enable practitioners to spend more time caring for children. From my experience working with schools trialling the changes, there are many elements which will be brilliant for children and families.

Let’sBACH startTO byBABIES looking at whatinisKensington staying the same: CONCERT Image by Jack Woodhouse Children learn best through play – playful experiences remains at the heart of the EYFS. wood? And will the mystery stranger help?

CAMBRIDGE THEATRE

Ages 3-11.

WC2H 9HU The curriculum is broad – the EYFS15curriculum Feb THE BEAR includes The story of a little girl www.matildathemusical.com everything from reading and writingwho tobefriends understanding a mischievous simple polar bear.

Booking until Jun 21 MATILDA maps; from learning social skills to throwing ball.fastThere One night whenashe’s asleep, are an THE MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare new parts but children will still be supported learn wide enormous whiteto bear climbsainto Tilly’s Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s range of skills and knowledge. bedroom. It has a big black tongue and a magical story about a girl with extraordinary

yawn as big as your head. But Tilly’s not scared. This playful, funny and heartwarming tale is one of imagination and LYRIC HAMMERSMITH growingfor up. children For ages 3-8. to be taught One W6 of 0QLthe biggest changes is the need 18-22 Feb STAR IN THE JAR A warmnew words and develop a love of reading.

Teaching words www.lyric.co.uk that perfectly hearted story, 11 always Jan THE CROW’S TALE Follow Crow it is being has happened but now given centrecaptures stagetheto friendship between two siblings. When a little as he embarks on a journey that will transsupport children’s communication and language development. boy stumbles across a special star, he puts it form his appearance forever, while kindness, in a jar and takes it on adventures. But the generosity and courage will shine through. poor star misses its home…Can the little boy For age 3+ and his big sister find a way to send the star 18 Jan ARTHUR’S DREAM BOAT safely back? For ages 3-8.

A magical children’s show about a little boy powers.

So what is different?

determination and ingenuity - and finding An interactive music-making session for ages a kind of freedom. For ages 8-12.

2-5. Meet the players and the instruments in As you sit together in the cosy space, share the foyer after the performance. in your baby’s excitement at the building 12 - 23 Feb IMAGINE CHILDREN’S anticipation of Christmas Day and all things FESTIVAL Dive into the best children’s t The second change, which families who heatre, literature biggest and music, with plenty of and one present-related - including the very have best bit: aworkshops child inand anfree Early setting already may notice, is the that eventsYears for everyone. crumpling, rumpling and scrunching recommendation to dance reduce ofpaper! children’s Ushers willlearning. be on hand to Draw, write, read, play, sing, and recording wrapping This beforable playing look aftermore you, andtime highchairs, baby- and create.means For ages carers 0-11. Bookwill ahead shows to spend supporting the learning ofThe children.changing It might mean thatfacilities you see and bottle-warming are such as The Very Hungry Caterpillar, fewer pictures or and less about your child’s available. For ages 6-18 months. adventures of Supertato Thewritten Curious information Scrapbook of Josephine amongst learning but whatBean is recorded and shared with you will be the many others.

See website for more really valuable parts - thedetails. new learning and the ‘wow’ moments.

CONCERTS

UNICORN THEATRE The new framework includes someBACH other new learning too, TO BABY SE1 2HZ including supporting children to learn about equality, difference www.bachtobaby.com/londonnorth www.unicorntheatre.com and communities and to develop positive relationships and All concerts at 10.30am.

31 Jan-1 Mar THE BEE IN ME- LET’S FLY attachments which help them understand their own feelings and 27 Jan, 17 Feb in Notting Hill AWAY One ordinary boy living an ordinary those of others.

(St. John's Church, Lansdowne Crescent, life. Every day the same: parents still asleep, late again for school, can’t find his clean

W11)

parents, get to school, reach level three,

SW7)

Staff will few terms using of the new Jan, 21 Feb inall Chiswick trousers.

Butneed today isadifferent.

Today isto a settle17into elements with allofthings education-related, doBath askRoad, your (St. Michael and All Angels, W4) game. Today but, he hasas wings.

Fly out your child’s key workers, and support staff if you would like 15 Jan, 19 Feb in Kensington room. Congratulations!

Level teachers two. Get todressed, knowfindhow the don’t newwake framework is(Saint being used in your setting.

Stephen's Church, Gloucester Road breakfast, your Emma Lewry is aflattened… school leader, former head teacher and co8 Feb in Ealing keep going…

Don’t get owner of Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd.co.uk) where (Haven Green Baptist Church, and sorrow, Level four…Full of warmth 2 Castlebar Road, W5) dreamlike and kaleidoscopic, it celebrates parents can find support foramatters relating to school and child discovering inner resources - resilience, education.

FREE Plasticine® Toolz Kit, Multi Pack, Softeez Noodle Doodle Creator Kit*!

who has a dream. One night, Arthur has an amazing dream about a beautiful pink and green boat with a stripy mast. He can’t wait to tell everyone about it but no one is interested. In fact, they don’t even notice that this very same boat is growing on his head, getting larger and larger by the minute!

For ages 2-8.

25 Jan MIMI AND THE MOUNTAIN DRAGON High up in the mountains of Switzerland the villagers of Dorta bang their drums, blow their horns and ring the bells to keep the fearsome Mountain Dragon away.

But this year is different, one morning Mimi discovers a baby dragon sleeping in her woodshed! Mimi must be extremely brave to reach the Dragon’s castle at the very top of the mountain and return the baby dragon to its mother. For ages 3-11.

1 Feb MAZYMEG AND THE HONEY BEES Albert lives with his beloved bees on Dartmoor, a mysterious land where nothing is as it seems. When his bees are stolen Mazymeg the Pixie sets off to bring them home. Weaving together Devon folklore and songs, an original soundtrack by Dartmoor musicians and shape-shifting puppetry this is an enchanting show for all ages.

8 Feb WOODLAND TALES WITH GRANDAD A show with an important environmental message to share.

Something is happening in the woods, voices can be heard, and a strange metallic smell fills the air. Machines are gathering at its edge and a mysterious call is heard across the valley. Velda the Vixen knows there’s a one person who can help them - Grandad.

But is there enough time? Can they save the

Worth over £12

Just sign up to our digital magazine.

PUPPET BARGE THEATRE

W9 2PF www.sadlerswells.com 15 Jan-23 Feb THE WATER BABIES A little chimney sweep's suffering ends when he is transformed into a water baby. As he plunges into an underwater realm of fish, caterpillars and caddisflies, we are drawn into his adventures in the colourful depths, swept along with his dreams and new freedom. With specially commissioned music, beautiful long-string marionettes and ghostly shadows. For ages 4+

RICHMOND THEATRE

TW9 1QJ www.atgtickets.com/Richmond 1, 2 Feb 25, 26 Jan PEPPA PIG’S BEST DAY EVER A road-trip full of adventures.

From castles to caves, dragons to dinosaurs and ice-creams to muddy puddles - there is something for all of the family and their friends to enjoy, including Miss Rabbit, Mr Bull, Suzy Sheep, Gerald Giraffe and more.

A live show packed full of songs, games and laughter.

IT’s FREE! SOUTHBANK CENTRE SE1 8PX familiesmag.co.uk/model www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Magazine

17, 24 31 Jan, 7, 14, 28 Feb RUG THE UNDER-FIVES RHYMES FOR T&Cs A short session of nursery rhymes, poems apply and rhyming stories, and the opportunity to look at and borrow books. Free but booking *while essential. stocks 12 Jan OAE TOTS: last THE PATIENT HORSE AND THE DUTIFUL DONKEY

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Families West London is part of Families Print Ltd, and is a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

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11

Parenting

Kids’ books that promote diversity

By Tamsy Ashman, a published author and mother living in Birmingham.

As conversations about race continue to dominate the headlines and we celebrate Black History Month in October, organisations and individuals have stepped up in recognising that we can celebrate our differences and embrace other cultures and races at the same time. So this is the perfect time to explore literature and texts from diverse authors with our kids.

Exposure to books featuring different backgrounds help shape children’s views of the world positively in an inclusive, welcoming way.

Reading about racial differences enables children to empathise with others and appreciate different ways of life whilst understanding that essentially, we are all the same and that is - human.

Here’s a list of great books to get started.

The ABCs of Black History

by Rio Cortez A beautiful toddler-friendly introduction to black history. With its bright, vivid imagery, the book teaches the ABCs in an interesting and meaningful way.

Letters represent: History - G is for the Great Migration. Culture - K for Kwanzaa.

People and places - H is for Harlem and Zora Neale Hurston. Big ideas - like B for beautiful, bold, brave, brotherhood.

Perfect for learning the alphabet and black history.

Suitable for ages 3+.

Available at www.bookshop.org

I Am Whole

by Shola Oz A delightful picture book celebrating children of mixed backgrounds and cultures. Written with love to embrace the differences that come with being multiracial, it includes language, family and cultural traditions. This book encourages children to embrace their diversity and recognise that such differences make us whole.

Suitable for ages 0 to 7.

Available on Amazon.

In the Know: Inspiring Black Figures

by Tamsy Ashman The aim of my book is to spread knowledge of black individuals who have impacted and revolutionised our world.

It encourages a well-rounded view of history and brings to the fore lesserknown black inventors. It also encourages children to think of what career they may have in the future and consider how they want to impact the world.

Suitable for ages 5+.

Available on Amazon.

It’s OK to be Different

by Sharon Purtill This book encourages kids to be kind and befriend those who are different from themselves, showing young children that they don’t have to look alike to engage and interact with others and promote racial tolerance. By highlighting the ways kids are different from one another, it helps children to accept themselves and others as the unique individuals that they are. The book includes a short survey for children about kindness and is a fantastic way to start a conversation about diversity.

We all Belong

by Nathalie & Alex Goss A beautifully written and illustrated children’s picture book that recognises and celebrates diversity in children. It’s a rhyming poem about inclusion, whatever the colour of our skin, with excellent representation of different cultures. The book includes an activity at the end, to help children appreciate how we are all similar in some ways and different in other ways too.

Suitable for all ages.

Available on Amazon.

The Black History Book

by DK (Author) A great book featuring profiles of key people, movements and events, which brings together accounts of significant ideas and milestones in Black history and culture and how it has influenced the world. This vital and thoughtprovoking book presents: modern Black communities such as Windrush migration, Civil Rights, Black feminist movements and Black Lives Matter.

Ages 10+.

Available at www.bookshop.org

Suitable for ages 2 to 8.

Available at www.bookshop.org 12

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Clubs & News

Performing Arts can help your child prepare for the new school year The new school year is a great time to consider new activities for your child. Often gone unnoticed, the skills learnt in performing arts can be hugely beneficial to children as they navigate their way in a new school year.

Empathy One challenge children face when they return to school in September is changes to friendship groups. Empathy is a particularly important characteristic to help overcome this and is a skill taught when training in the performing arts. To portray a character in a play we need to be able to step into their shoes and understand their situation; if a child learns to understand a character in this way, they can also apply this to everyday life, helping them to react to their peers and developing their social skills.

Listening The ability to listen is an important skill, especially when a child is in a new setting, with new routines and expectations.

During performing arts classes children take direction from their teachers and peers. This encourages them to be receptive to others’ ideas and work collaboratively.

Problem solving The ability to solve problems creatively within the safety of a performing arts environment can be transferred to everyday life. Improvisation performances teach children to use their

imagination and think on their feet, a skill that can be used when dealing with a variety of daily issues. If children feel comfortable exploring and dealing with problems in a non-linear way, this makes them more confident overall.

Confidence building Performing arts are hugely beneficial to children’s confidence levels. Taking part in a practical performance, standing on stage, participating in a dance routine, or speaking in front of a group can give even the most confident children, and adults, nervous butterflies. Learning new skills, rehearsing, and performing in a safe space, with the support of expert teachers and encouragement of their peers, can prepare children to deal with situations in which they feel anxious.

PQA’s slogan ‘Be Yourself, Be Amazing’ reflects their ethos of offering a safe, creative space where children and young people feel comfortable and part of a like-minded community. Regular face to face experiences that encourage self-expression are more important than ever as families navigate the complicated landscape of growing-up in a digital culture. www.pqacademy.com

OUTSTANDING PERFORMING ARTS TUITION FOR 4 - 18 YEAR-OLDS

ACT, DANCE, SING AND MAKE FILMS! Find your local Academy at pqacademy.com

BOOK YOUR

FREE TASTE SESSI R NOWON !

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13

What’s On

September DAILY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 5 DRAGONS AND MYTHICAL BEASTS Regents Park open air theatre www.officiallondontheatre.com/show/ dragons-mythical-beasts-tickets-111420105 DAILY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 5 THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA Haymarket, Theatre Royal, 18 Suffolk St, SW1Y 4HT www.officiallondontheatre.com/show/ tiger-came-tea-111421630 DAILY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 26 LONDON WONDERGROUND Earls Court, Empress Place SW6 1TT Shows for all the family, late night comedy, circus, a city beach and vintage rides plus live acoustic music and some of London’s finest street food and outdoor bars. www.underbelly.co.uk/festival/londonwonderground-at-earls-court DAILY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 26 VAN GOGH ALIVE Kensington Gardens, Kensington W2 2UH Don’t miss your chance to immerse yourself in the life and works of Vincent van Gogh at the most visited immersive, multi-sensory experience in the world.

Kids will also love the DIANA MEMORIAL PLAYGROUND which features a huge wooden pirate ship, sensory trail and play sculptures, inspired by the adventures of fictional park hero Peter Pan. www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/kensingtongardens DAILY UNTIL DECEMBER 31 ALICE: CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER V&A Museum, Cromwell Road SW7 2RL Take a mind-bending journey into Wonderland, exploring its origins, adaptations and reinventions over 157 years. This immersive and theatrical show charts the evolution of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland from manuscript to a global phenomenon beloved by all ages. www.vam.ac.uk/families DAILY UNTIL JANUARY 3 2022 FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE WONDER OF NATURE EXHIBITION Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, SW7 5BD Discover where the real world and the Wizarding World intertwine and how the wonders of the natural world have inspired myths, legends and magical creatures for generations. www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/exhibitions/fantasticbeasts-the-wonder-of-nature.html UNTIL FEBRUARY 22 2022 MARY POPPINS Prince Edward Theatre, Old Compton Street W1D 4HS www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/whats-on/ mary-poppins

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All details correct at the time of going to press. Please do remember to check online for up-to-date information and remember that in most cases you will need to book.

WED 1 TO THURS SEPTEMBER 30 TOTALLY THAMES 2021 Various venues Celebrating the River Thames with arts events, active adventures, environmental initiatives, heritage and education programmes. www.thamesfestivaltrust.org THURS SEPTEMBER 2 TO SUN OCTOBER 31 LONDON LITERATURE FESTIVAL Southbank SE1 A stunning line-up of authors, activists, poets and performers will lead conversations and readings, including a free family programme headlined by Oliver Jeffers. www.southbankcentre.co.uk WED SEPTEMBER 1 TO SUN OCTOBER 31 PADDINGTON - THE STORY OF A BEAR The British Library, 96 Euston Rd, NW1 2DB Join Paddington as he sets off on a new adventure at The British Library. www.bl.uk FRIDAYS SEPTEMBER 3 AND 24 DINO SNORES FOR KIDS Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, SW7 5BD Join a night of exploration and adventure among the Museum’s most incredible creatures. This will be a sleepover you’ll never forget.

6.45pm - 10am www.nhm.ac.uk/events/dino-snores-forkids.html TUESDAYS SEPTEMBER 7 AND 21 ADVENTURE BABIES Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, SW7 5BD Sensory storytelling class brought to you by award-winning Adventure Babies www.nhm.ac.uk/events/adventure-babies. html WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 8 AUTUMN BAT WALK Holland Park Ecology Centre, Holland Park, Ilchester Place, W8 6LU 7.15pm - 8.45pm www.rbkc.gov.uk/environment/hollandpark-ecology-centre/environment/hollandpark-ecology-centre/about-holland-parkecology-centre FROM THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 16 MATILDA THE MUSICAL Cambridge Theatre, Earlham Street WC2H 9HU The multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company is back!

Inspired by the beloved book by Roald Dahl. Ages 6+. www.lwtheatres.co.uk/theatres/cambridge FRI SEPTEMBER 17 AND FRI OCTOBER 1 SILENT DISCO Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, SW7 5BD DJs do battle over separate wireless channels, playing the best in pop, rock and party classics. www.nhm.ac.uk/events/silent-disco.html

THURS 23 TO MON SEPTEMBER 27 BLUE PARADOX EVENT Exhibition London, Ariel Way, W12 7SL With 360-degree digital projections, the exhibition invites visitors to walk beneath the ocean’s surface to better understand the ocean plastics crisis and learn more about how we can all make a difference. www.eventbrite.com/e/the-blue-paradoxtickets-94419119127 FRI 24 TO SUN SEPTEMBER 26 HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX IN CONCERT Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP The Harry Potter™ Film Concert Series returns to the Royal Albert Hall for the fifth installment of J.K. Rowling’s classic saga. For the first time ever, audiences can rediscover the magic of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix™ while a live symphony orchestra performs Nicholas Hooper’s unforgettable score and Harry Potter™ soars across the big screen in high-definition. www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/ events/2021/harry-potter-and-the-order-ofthe-phoenix-in-concert SAT SEPTEMBER 25 TO SUN OCTOBER 31 RED Polka Theatre, The Broadway SW19 1SB The wolves have seized power from Queen Sukotai and Alpha Wolf sits on the throne.

What will happen now and where is Red? Don your wellies and journey through forests and swampland on a mission to restore peace to the land; but be careful not to disturb the sleeping wolves!

Ages 6+. www.polkatheatre.com

October FRI 1 TO SUN OCTOBER 31 THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY - NEW! Central London venue to be revealed Immerse yourselves in a world of sweets, where sight, smell, and taste all bring this candy-themed adventure to life.

Your journey will take you through a series of magical themed rooms and naturally, you’ll be able to eat your way through the experience too.

Booking essential. age 2-12 www.chocolatefactoryexperience.com TUESDAYS OCTOBER 5 AND 19 ADVENTURE BABIES Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, SW7 5BD Sensory storytelling class brought to you by award-winning Adventure Babies www.nhm.ac.uk/events/adventure-babies. html THURS OCTOBER 14 TO MON NOVEMBER 1 HAPPY HALLOWE’EN Paulton’s Park, Ower, Romsey, The New Forest, SO51 6AL The friendliest, most frightful fun fest in the UK - all set in Peppa Pig World. Exciting Hallowe’en shows including The Legend of Paultons Manor - an all singing and dancing extravaganza, ghoulish fun and Peppa Pig World will get a spooky Hallowe’en makeover. Visitors can also look forward to

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What’s On scary characters, late night openings and great photo opportunities www.paultonspark.co.uk WEDS, FRIS AND SATS FROM OCTOBER 14 HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD Palace Theatre, Shaftesbury Ave, W1D 5AY 9 years after Harry, Ron, and Hermione saved the wizarding world, they’re back on a most extraordinary new adventure – this time, joined by a brave new generation that has only just arrived at the legendary Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. https://uk.harrypottertheplay.com SATURDAY OCTOBER 16 SLEEPING BEAUTY Leicester Square Theatre, Leicester Place WC2H 7BX Performed by Let’s All Dance, this shortened classic is the perfect way to introduce children to the wonder and magic of live dance. Ages 2-14. www.leicestersquaretheatre.com SATURDAY OCTOBER 23 DINO SNORES FOR KIDS Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, SW7 5BD Join a night of exploration and adventure among the Museum’s most incredible creatures. This will be a sleepover you’ll never forget.

6.45pm - 10am www.nhm.ac.uk/events/dino-snores-forkids.html

MON 25 TO FRI OCTOBER 29 SPOOKY MOVIE MAKING HALLOWEEN SCHOOL BFI Southbank, SE1 8XT 10.30am-4.30pm 5 consecutive days £99 per child aged 8-11 years https://whatson.bfi.org.uk TUESDAY OCTOBER 26 SHLOMO’S BEATBOX ADVENTURE FOR KIDS Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP World record-breaking beatboxer SK Shlomo makes mad music with his mouth.

Become one of this sonic superhero’s sidekicks in a world of funny sounds, brilliant noises and cool music, whether you’re aged 1 or 101! www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/ events/2021/shlomos-beatbox-adventurefor-kids

Clubs and Classes HARTBEEPS AWARD-WINNING, ORIGINAL, MULTI-SENSORY MUSICAL CLASSES. Bubbles, Costumes, Massage, Sensory textures and lights, puppets and more.

Classes designed for each stage of your baby’s development.

Baby bells - Newborn- sitting Beeps - Sitting - Standing Happy house - Toddlers & Siblings Classes in: Bayswater, Maida Vale, Notting Hill, Shepherds Bush, Mayfair and Kensington loulou@hartbeeps.com Classes in: Ealing, Acton, Hammersmith and Chiswick kimmy@hartbeeps.com www.hartbeeps.com

FRI 29 AND SAT OCTOBER 30 DEPOT DISCOVERY TOURS London Transport Museum, Acton Town Depot 118-120 Museum Way, Gunnersbury Ln, W3 9BQ Learn about the history of London transport - from historic vehicles, signs and maps to some unusual and unexpected items! www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/depottours/depot-discovery

Make Christmas Magical Take your family on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to meet Santa in Lapland and enjoy an experience you’ll never forget!

Christmas 2022 on sale now Visit SantasLapland.com

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PICTURE CROSSWORD Can you solve the picture clues and put them in the crossword?

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PARTY MAZE Little Owl is going to a birthday party.

Can you help him get there by drawing a path to the balloons?

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