Families South East London January/February 2023 Print

South East

Welcome

Happy New Year from all of us here at Families! We wish you the very best for the months ahead.

If you’ve abandoned New Year resolutions already, then let Families re-inspire you! This really is a great time of year to focus on how to get healthier – but it’s difficult to do it on your own. So how about taking on a health challenge as a family instead so you can motivate each other? And if you’re keen to improve your child’s mental health, check out our tips for helping them with anxiety.

And, as the kids head back to school or nursery for the new term, we also have a great article on helping little ones with separation anxiety, a common issue faced by parents of children in the early years, as well as a focus on education including an update on SATS, advice on safely choosing an online tutor and how logical thinking can help children achieve their goals.

Finally, in this issue, we have Britannica Magazine subscriptions to giveaway! Apply for six month subscriptions plus a Britannica All New Children’s Encyclopaedia inside. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Linda

Editor, Families South East

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.

SATS: getting in the know

By Jessica Joan

In May, Year 2 (KS1) and Year 6 (KS2) pupils will take their SATS exams. Yet, from their very first day at school, children are being trained to be able to perform in preparation for these assessments.

So much work goes on behind the scenes in other years to get children ready and when it comes to the year in which they take their SATS, teachers are under pressure for them to do well.

To prepare for the exams, your children will be doing lots of maths, reading and writing at school, intertwined with other subjects so that they are consistently practising those skills. Sometimes this means that other foundation subjects are deemed ‘not as important’ and additional maths and English lessons squeezed in instead.

So how can you ensure your child does well in their SATS?

Your child’s school will more than likely be sending home maths, English and reading homework in preparation. It can be difficult to make your child do homework, especially when they have been worked so hard during the school day; however, it’s an important support in preparation for SATS so anything you can do with your child can really make a difference to how they perform.

Providing your child with any opportunity to read, write and do mathematical calculations will be massively appreciated by your child’s teacher!

In addition, you can download and look at past SATS papers

from previous years (www.sats-papers.co.uk) to get an idea of what your child will have to do. There will be some things that have changed since you went to school so ask your child to show you how they do things - they will relish this opportunity!

Likewise, you can always speak to your child’s teacher who will happily show you how you can support your child’s learning at home.

As well as these things, ensuring your child eats well and stays hydrated will support their minds and bodies during the school day. Similarly, creating a good bedtime routine will mean your child gets a decent night’s sleep and has the brain power to be ‘on the ball’ throughout the school week.

Jessica Joan is a primary school teacher from Worcestershire with a ten year teaching career. After experiencing burn out, she set up as a Work/Life Balance Coach for stressed out teachers and launched her Happy Teacher Course. Find out more at www.jessicajoan.co.uk

SATS and your child’s wellbeing

It’s very common for children to feel worried and even stressed about doing their SATS, especially for Year 5 children going into Year 6.

There is plenty that you can do at home to support your child mentally and emotionally in preparation. Explain that it’s totally normal to feel this way before a test and share some of your own experiences. This will help them feel less alone and comfortable in being able to share what’s going on for them. It’s a great opportunity for you to teach them about emotional intelligence and wellbeing. Start off by labelling the emotion that they are experiencing like anger, worry, anxiety. Then discuss the physical sensations they feel which come with that emotion, whether that’s sweaty palms or a racing heart. Now practise a wellbeing technique to promote feelings of calm and self-assurance during these times. Breathing techniques, exercise and meditation are all great ways to support your child’s wellbeing throughout stressful times during their childhood.

Are KS1 SATS being scrapped?

The government previously announced its plans to scrap KS1 SATS (Year 2) after the introduction of the Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA) which began in September 2021 and is taken by all new primary school pupils. However, it has since been decided to make KS1 SATS (Year 2) optional for schools from September 2023 instead.

The RBA is usually done with a teacher in an informal setting during a child’s first six weeks of school. It is an activity-based assessment conducted via a number of practical and interactive tasks. There have been pilots done all over the country and the validity report confirms that this new assessment provides an ‘accurate’ starting point from which to measure the progress a child makes in primary school.

To my knowledge, this change is welcomed amongst primary school teachers across the country as it limits the amount of pressured standardised testing that takes place during a child’s early school years. Primary school is a time for children to explore their learning through play and their own curiosities.

ISA Award for Herne Hill School

Herne Hill School has won the ISA 2022 Award for Excellence and Innovation in Art and Design.

Three finalist schools were shortlisted in the summer, chosen from the dozens of entries from over six hundred reputable schools nationwide that belong to the Independent Schools Association. Herne Hill School was chosen as the 2022 winner for its cuttingedge art and design provision.

ISA’s Chief Executive Officer, Rudolf Eliott Lockhart, praised the art provision at the school saying: ‘At Herne Hill School, art is used as a tool to inspire learning on the wider issues that young children face within their daily lives. Its vast, innovative and all-round art and design curriculum offers them the freedom to express their imaginations and advance their own ideas, which is invaluable.’

Congratulations to all Herne Hill School pupils and its teaching staff for all of their creative artworks and for obtaining such a prestigious award!

For more information, visit www.hernehillschool.co.uk

Herne Hill School

Herne Hill’s Head and its Art Coordinator receive the award

How logical thinking helps children achieve goals

By Usha Patel

My 6-year-old nephew came around the other day for tea and cake. In the middle of a conversation, he loudly declared he was on his eighth ‘mini-cake.’ These were bite-sized morsels made for tiny hands. It made me chuckle that a child of just 6 years would think to measure the increasing joy that eating cake could bring! I looked down at my plate and wondered how many I had gobbled up….

However, many children don’t see patterns, numbers or the need for measuring.

A 10-year-old student I recently worked with really wanted to play football but was reluctant because she had great difficulty tying her shoelaces. I taught her how to do it in five easy steps, explaining that she would achieve her goal but that some steps might be trickier than others.

Before our work together, she had thought of tying laces as one task. By breaking down the task into a series of logical steps, she could see which parts were more complex and which were manageable. She quickly got the hang of it by paying closer attention to those bits she thought were fiddly and not feeling as frustrated as she had before.

With my instruction, she practised regularly at home and each time she would get faster at the bits she found tricky. When she returned a couple of weeks later, she boasted she could now tie her laces very quickly and insisted on showing me with her brand-new trainers.

So what does this teach us? That when tasks are broken down into logical steps, success is possible.

When a child does not apply logic and reasoning to a difficult task, how they feel about the task dominates their approach. But we can’t measure feelings in the same way we can measure steps - or even cake! They are not objective and so the cycle of frustration continues and a child reinforces an unfair bias against their own ability.

Measuring progress allows a child to see for themselves what is going wrong. They then can problem-solve, achieve success and meet their intended goal.

Logical thinking takes time to nurture but once success is achieved, parents should celebrate. Decide on another goal and repeat a similar logical process.

Usha Patel is a neurocognitive therapist who runs Raviv Practice London (www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk).

Activity ideas

Activities that require logical thinking can help move a child from a subjective to an objective way of problem solving, teaching them rely on facts to evaluate a situation and make rational decisions. Routinely playing specific games to help with sequencing, critical thinking, following procedures and analysing results can shift brain thinking patterns and develop a child’s resilience and stamina in the face of difficult tasks. Some ideas include:

Sequencing. Activities like cake baking are very procedural as you follow carefully laid out instructions in order.

Logical thinking. Suduko type puzzles require a lot of critical thinking and analysis.

Procedural. Origami helps children be precise with their physical actions. This activity can require a lot of patience but is very rewarding.

Analysis. Puzzles and brain teasers teach children mental stamina while applying different thinking techniques. There are great benefits in repeating easier tasks because they can help build a positive outlook and reinforce an expectation of success. Success breeds motivation, which leads to further success!

The Traffic Light Game

Some children find it harder than others to make the move to thinking more logically about tasks. If they rely only on their emotions to guide decision making, they do not have flexibility in their thinking and it can lead to complex problems.

When something goes well, they feel joy but when it goes badly they feel disappointment. This feeling can stop them from developing a better repertoire of thinking skills which allow rational thought processes to be more routinely used. They need to break this negative confirmation bias.

Helping children measure their success can help them be more critical and less hard on themselves. The Traffic Light Game is where you award a child with a green token (or star/sticker) when they perform a task well, an orange one for when you see progress and a red one when a lot of work still needs to be done.

Seeing that there are colours other than red, shows them that there is room for hope and they will feel less disappointed.

Getting the best from online tutoring

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

With Covid and the move to online platforms, tutoring has become more accessible, with more options and opportunities available for tutors and students. As a result, over fifteen percent of children across the country are now receiving private tuition.

An Institute of Education study shows that well delivered tuition has a positive impact on attainment across the board. Certainly, in the highly competitive worlds of selective schools and public exams, tutoring has become the norm in ensuring that children are prepared and supported.

Today many parents turn to the internet to find a suitable tutor as it offers wider and often less expensive access to more options. But with it comes the concern around finding quality teaching in an unregulated world.

Online tutoring options are prolific on social media - you’ll likely get more offers than you could sift through in one evening! There are also many specialist online agencies offering a range of tutoring options, as well as A-level or undergraduate student tutors offering their services.

Employing an A-level or undergraduate student tutor may be advantageous in offering your child a positive role model.

Equally, your child may feel more comfortable with somebody closer to their own age and may therefore be more likely to challenge themselves and grow in their learning. This option can also offer a less expensive tuition route. However, it is really important to bear in mind that student tutors are unqualified and

inexperienced and don’t have the experience or understanding of child development.

In this exploding world of online tutoring, to give your child the best chance to succeed, you will need to do your research AND practise due diligence. Paying for a tutor is an important investment and cutting corners may do your child more harm than good.

Most educators recommend a robust academic assessment prior to hiring any tutor. For some children, an experienced tutor will be essential whilst for others a student tutor to support their learning can provide a wonderful experience. Either way, parents should be involved in what and how a tutor is planning for their child and have some degree of control and understanding of which topics will be covered.

Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with insights, skills and tools to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.

Safe tutor selection

Meet your online tutor in a video call prior to engaging them and check their references thoroughly.

Consider their professional training as well as their general character and attitude.

Request qualification certificates and background checks.

Ask how they measure progress. Request regular feedback and that any homework is sent via you.

Ask for planning information. A professional tutor will never mind sharing this with you.

Sessions should only be arranged via parents; tutors should never contact your child directly.

Which platform will they use? Make sure that your child knows the rules around safety too.

Monitor online lessons by setting up in an open space in your home or leaving a door open if you are not in the same room.

Trust your instincts as a parent; if something doesn’t feel right, stop sessions and change tutors.

Surviving separation anxiety

By Dorothy Lepkowska

It’s a common scenario; the toddler who actively resists being left with anyone else, struggling to separate from parents or loved ones. So what can you do to make separating from your toddler easier?

Most children go through a phase of being overly attached to one or both parents at some point in their early years. The tears can make leaving them at nursery or with a childminder heart breaking.

Kate Harding’s toddler would cling to her every morning when they arrived at nursery. ‘She wasn’t upset when she woke up in the morning or even in the car as we drove to her early years setting but once it was time for me to leave it was the same every day’ Kate says. ‘She would cling to my leg and literally have to be peeled off by one of the staff. Often I’d leave upset and in tears myself. On those days, no amount of reassurance from her key person that she was well and thriving would make me feel better.’

Important for resilience

Experts say that it’s completely normal for young children to go through what could be described as a clingy phase and it’s an important part of their development.

For many, anxiety at being separated from a parent begins at six to nine months. It’s around this time that babies become conscious that they are separate little beings and are not the same person as their parent.

For some, this clinginess can last for a couple of years or more and can get worse when they go to nursery or a childminder.

As difficult as it is to be separated from a crying, anxious child, it’s best not to avoid leaving them. Explaining why you need to be apart, saying goodbye, telling them when you will be back and reinforcing the positives of this, is all part of teaching your child how to be resilient.

Take a deep breath and walk away. Your child is in safe hands and will thrive, as they will discover for themselves over time.

Kate says: ‘I would tell my daughter that I had to go to work so we had money and remind her how much fun it would be to play with her friends. Often this did the trick.’

Dorothy Lepkowska is an award-winning journalist, author and freelance writer for the Early Years Alliance (www. eyalliance.org.uk). You can read more of her parenting features at www.familycorner.co.uk

Getting used to new surroundings

Nurseries and pre-school settings understand the importance of a settling-in period before your child starts officially. You might stay with your child for several sessions, gradually leaving them for longer periods. Your child’s key person will work with you to settle your child. This helps them get used to their new surroundings and helps you both become familiar with the staff and children.

Remember, this is all new for your child so it’s not surprising they might feel uncertain or anxious.

‘I always tried not to sneak out of the nursery when leaving’ says Kate, ‘but to give her a kiss, wish her a good day and wave through the window. At times it was hard to stay calm and collected while she was upset but as she got to know the routine the crying stopped. In any event, even at her worst, the staff always assured me that she calmed down once I’d gone and got on with the day’s activities. It was probably worse for me, in fact!’

Don’t go back – check in by phone

Early years experts say that while parents might be tempted to seek reassurance that their child is okay by returning to the setting, this can be disruptive and unsettle their child all over again. All that is achieved is the transference of the parent’s anxiety to the child.

Instead, a quick phone call to the staff is usually enough to reassure you that everything is going well.

However, if a toddler remains unduly upset by separation for a prolonged period it might be worth investigating if there are other reasons for them feeling unsettled. Talk to your child’s key person or childminder about your concerns. They are best placed to advise you what is best for your child, even if this means delaying their start at the setting for a few weeks or extending their settling in period.

Kate adds: ‘My own experience and those of other parents I know, is that this separation anxiety is a temporary thing. There will come a day they run in without even a kiss goodbye.’

New Year challenges

By Claire Winter

Every New Year we are inundated with health, fitness and self-improvement messages. Often, if we do decide to challenge ourselves and make a change, we don’t feel adequately supported and quickly lose motivation. One way of addressing this is to take on a new challenge as a family. Not only do you all have to get up off the sofa but you get to spend quality time with each other too!

Does your family thrive on a bit of competition? You could make your challenge a goalorientated one. Or perhaps you have family members who want to nail screen time, healthy eating or exercise? Call a family meeting and decide which challenge will suit you all. If you can’t decide, hold a vote! Here are some challenge ideas.

Get wild

We know that spending time in nature is good for you and science backs it up. Challenge each other to name different trees on every walk you go on, see shapes in clouds, identify birdsong; whatever it takes to draw the family into the fresh air.

The RSPB has some great wild challenge suggestions for families; check out fun and learning at www.rspb.org.uk.

Reduce screen time

If you decide as a family to spend less time on devices, there are some great apps like AppDetox or AntiSocial which can help. Plan family fun as a healthier and more inclusive use of your time.

Catch me if you can

Coach Martin Sharp (www.martinsharp.com) suggests a family running challenge. ‘You could keep it simple and see how many laps of the park you can all do. But if you want to make it more exciting you could enter a Color Run (www.colorrun.co.uk) or a Tough Mudder (www.toughmudder.co.uk) says Martin. ‘Exercise doesn’t have to be the same thing day-in, day-out; with a bit of imagination it can turn into a grand adventure.’ Make a family chart and log everyone’s goals and achievements.

Eat around the world

Bored with your normal meals? Inspire yourselves by researching healthy ingredients you’ve never tried before. Then plan a family challenge to cook meals from around the world. Everyone gets to try something they’ve not eaten before.

Be mindful

In this stressful world, taking time to ‘just be’ is so important. Try some relaxing yoga and meditation every evening for just five to ten minutes, for a month. Insight Timer (www.insighttimer. com) is a free meditation app, packed with different tracks and exercises.

Wear a Hat for a better future!

Wear A Hat Day, an iconic and fun annual event, is one of the UK’s most popular and family-friendly charitable fundraisers and it’s happening again on Friday, 31 March!

Running for more than ten years, this event raises millions for vital research into brain tumours – the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40. Wear A Hat Day events help children explore their individuality and creativity, whilst learning to work together and think of others – in a really fun way.

Participation fosters friendships, creates better local and school communities, offers unique learning opportunities and provides new ways for children to explore ideas around different life experiences, all while giving hope to brain tumour patients and their loved ones.

Join this event, as a family or by persuading your local school to take part. Register now for more information and your FREE fundraising pack. Just use the quick and easy webform at www.wearahatday.org

Put a spring in your child’s step with Perform

Happy spring term!

Perform’s confidence-building classes are sure to blow away the winter cobwebs and help children feel energised and inspired. This term sees children ages 4 to 7 trapezing and somersaulting into a Circus Adventure whilst those ages 7 to 12 work on a fun and funky adaptation of Robin Hood, in Outlaw. Imaginations will soar as children work towards a magical performance for family and friends.

Perform is not like other children’s drama schools. Its classes have a special emphasis on child development and use a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s potential. Run by experienced actor-teachers, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination and Concentration. With all abilities welcome, children can join at any point in the term and will take part in the performance.

Perform Area Partner, Hannah Conway, told Families: ‘Our Victoria Park venue is often full to capacity with enthusiastic children, so I’m thrilled we’ve opened new classes at the Time and Talents hub in Surrey Quays shopping centre, giving more children their chance to shine!’

Children are welcome to try a FREE class. With local venues in Beckenham, Bermondsey, Blackheath, Brockley, Bromley,

Find the right class and book at www.perform.org.uk/try

More about Perform’s weekly classes

Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try, email enquiries@perform.org.uk or call 020 7255 9120 to book a FREE trial class in one of the following venues.

Beckenham: St George’s Church Hall

Bermondsey: Bermondsey Village Hall NEW Blackheath: St Michael and All Angels Church Hall

Brockley: St Andrew’s Centre

Bromley: St John The Evangelist Church Camberwell: Longfield Hall Chislehurst: Chislehurst Methodist Church Dulwich: St Stephen’s Millenium Hall, St Barnabas’ Church Hall, Francis Peek Community Room, Goose Green Centre

Eltham: Christ Church Community Centre Forest Hill: St William of York Catholic Church Hall Greenwich: The Forum

Herne Hill: The Prince Regent, Carnegie Community Hub Hither Green: Lochaber Hall

Kidibrooke: St James Rectory Lee: Church of the Good Shepherd Petts Wood: Lakes Wood Hall

Surrey Quays: Time and Talents, Surrey Quays Shopping Centre NEW Woolwich: Under 1 Roof

Camberwell, Chislehurst, Dulwich, Eltham, Forest Hill, Greenwich, Herne Hill, Hither Green, Kidibrooke, Lee, Petts Wood, Surrey Quay and Woolwich, there’s sure to be a class near you.

Ten top tips for alleviating children’s anxiety

By Claire Moreau

Parenting is often marvellous and rewarding but it’s also complex, especially if your child is struggling with anxiety and you are unsure what to do next. Families asked Claire Moreau, a qualified mindfulness teacher, to share her tips for lessening children’s anxiety. Don’t be deceived by the simplicity of these…try putting them into practice – they do work!

Avoid fuelling anxiety

Children absorb emotions like sponges and if they don’t know how to manage them, they can feel frustrated, powerless and overwhelmed. Overhearing the news or emotionally-charged adult conversation can fuel children’s anxiety. Teenagers can be alarmed by news threads on social media. Besides climate change and Covid, younger generations are now worrying about the war in Ukraine and its potential consequences.

Top tip: Avoid watching/listening to the news with young children; talk to teenagers about the news threads they follow; keep adult conversation amongst adults. Without altogether avoiding sensitive topics, discussions can be held within families in an age-appropriate way.

Encourage children to express feelings

Children are more likely to express their feelings when they sense that we are fully available. Sitting in an area they pass by when returning from school or a weekend activity and gently inviting them to join us can be a start.

Teenagers might be more reluctant than young children to express how they feel. Letting them know that we’re ready to welcome whatever troubles them might not produce an immediate result, but, in time, it can prompt them to open up.

Top tip: tell them they have the right to feel overwhelmed or stressed – ‘it’s okay not to be okay.’ Listen intently to them without moving into ‘fix-it mode.’ Sometimes they just need a steady, listening ear.

Be fully present

Mobile phones are part of our lives and essential communication devices. Yet, the alerts and notifications keep us constantly looking at them and family members often have to compete.

Being fully present with the activity or conversation we’re having with our children - without being distracted by mobile phones - demonstrates that we value ‘real’ time together over virtual communication with other people and that we are fully available.

Top tip: at mealtimes, get everyone to put their phones away for a set length of time.

Limit screen time

Research has found that too much screen time can lead to mental health issues in children, such as anxiety and depression. Most children prefer electronic media to playing and interacting with family and peers, which impacts their social development.

Monitor screen time, ensure the content is age-appropriate, communicate with children about inappropriate images and model healthy device habits.

Top tip: playing board games, reading and listening to music are great alternatives. Ask your kids to help you discover their musical tastes – this can lead to rich intergenerational conversations!

Offer reassurance

Small steps can go a long way. If they worry about the future, bring them back to the present moment—’right here, right now, with you, all is well.’ Tell them that you love them no matter what. These are both pillars of mindfulness.

Create a family routine that dissolves their worries even if only for a short time - in my family, every other Friday evening, homemade pizza is sacred. We catch up while cooking, then we watch a film together.

Top tip: Empower them by doing something as a family to help the situation they are worrying about – for instance, organise a car boot sale or a family run to raise money for charity.

Spend time in nature

The term nature-deficit disorder (NDD) was coined by Richard Louv in his 2005 book Last Child in the Woods. NDD can contribute to many problems, including higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. The good news is it can easily be reversed. Spending time in nature is easier than we think: village greens, parks, commons and nature reserves abound in the UK. They provide the perfect setting for free family activities: walking, cycling, playing frisbee or racket sports helps lift the mood; watching nature’s life cycle is always a treat.

Top tip: Swap a meal indoors for a picnic, yes, even if it is cold! Nothing beats a good walk or cycle ride before returning home to a hot drink or meal.

There are many mindfulness apps/recorded meditations for adults and children which may help them to relax and unwind. However, nothing compares with attending a course with a qualified mindfulness teacher. Such a course teaches key mindfulness skills that help children and adults identify and manage emotions, improve concentration, relax and strengthen inner resources. Parents and children can benefit from simple exercises that help establish a strong mindfulness practice.

Top tip: children’s courses are only taught in person but many adults courses are now delivered on Zoom so it is easier to fit them around family life.

With little ones, creating a comforting, wind down routine can help (reading a book together, listening to soothing music).

With teenagers, blocking the mobile phone at a set time is recommended. Finally, at all ages, placing hands on the belly, breathing easily and focusing on the breath, following the gentle movement of the belly that rises and falls. Counting the breath to ten (inone, out – two, in – three, out – four etc) over and over can quieten a busy mind.

Top tip: whatever their ages, no screens before bedtime. If, despite your best intentions and care, your child’s behaviour or anxiety level becomes worrying, it is best to seek medical advice. GPs can refer a child to a psychologist or occupational therapist with training in mental health.

Top tip: getting support for yourself while you’re supporting your children is critical. Charities like www.youngminds.org.uk run a parent’s helpline and provide free advice and support.

Claire has over ten years of meditation and yoga practice and three years of experience teaching mindfulness. She is particularly interested in how mindfulness can help parents and children develop well-being and cultivate emotional resilience, kindness and compassion. For more information on her courses, visit www.bridgemakermindfulness.com

Reading not only provides a good alternative to screen time but it’s also relaxing. A 2009 study from the University of Sussex has found that reading can reduce stress by up to sixty eight percent. Just six minutes of relaxing into a good book can lower blood pressure and muscle tension. It’s a great distraction technique.

Top tip: reading can also become a special family moment—older children can read a story to younger siblings or parent and child can each read a page aloud.

What’s on

Compiled by Robina Cowan

All details are as provided when going to press, however in case of changed plans, do double-check before setting out.

DIARY DATES

Vault Festival

In and around Waterloo SE1 www.vaultfestival.com 24 January - 19 March

An independent festival featuring over five hundred of the best live theatre, comedy and cabaret performers, including shows for families and young audiences.

Imagine Children’s Festival Southbank SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk 8-18 February

The very best children’s theatre, comedy, music, literature, dance and, most importantly, full-on fun for children and their grownups this February half-term.

The Green Planet AR Experience

55 Regent Street W1B 4DY www.thegreenplanet experience.co.uk 11 February - 9 March

Travel through five digitally enhanced worlds to explore our green planet as never before. Inspired by the BBC series, this is nature at your fingertips in a ground-breaking experience. Free but book first.

HALF TERM WORKSHOPS

Perform Dulwich and Blackheath www.perform.org.uk/lion 13-15 February

The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe Step into the magic of Narnia with a drama, dance and singing adventure for children awaiting on the other side of the wardrobe. This holiday course based on The Lion, the Witch & the Wardobe runs from 10am to 3pm daily at St Stephen’s Millenium Hall in Dulwich and John Ball Primary School in Blackheath. With magical creatures and a triumphant royal victory, this production is the perfect half-term treat. Ages 4-10.

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes

Various locations www.funkymonkey.info 13-17 February Workshops

Imaginative, fun-packed half day workshops introduce basic keyboard techniques including reading and writing notes C-G, plus extra fun and games. Ages 4-8.

THEATRE & SHOWS

Greenwich Theatre

Crooms Hill SE10 8ES www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk

Until 8 January Robin Hood

The poor citizens of Nottingham have just about had enough of their scheming, tax-raising Sheriff but fear not, our hero Robin Hood is here to right those wrongs. Boo, hiss and cheer as the pantomime team join the good fight. Age 5+.

12 February

Tweedy’s Musical Mayhem

A comedy and slapstick performance featuring Tweedy and his friend Mike. Clowning and music combine in a brand new show. Ages 4+.

Blackheath Halls Lee Road SE3 9RQ www.blackheathhalls.com

4 February

The Nosy Little Troll

A warm-hearted funny Scandinavian story, starring a tasty brown cheese song, a lost goat and a bushy old troll with green fingers. Ages 3-8.

Shakespeare’s Globe New Globe Walk SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com

16 February

Much Ado About Nothing Explore Shakespeare’s witty comedy in a practical and interactive workshop which explores the play through games and activities. Ages 12+.

15-17

February

The Winter’s Tale

Gather round for an interactive, time-travelling, country-hopping family workshop. Ages 5-12.

Until 25 February

Festive Family Tour Hear about the folk traditions that people practised in Shakespeare’s time.

Unicorn Theatre Tooley Street SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com

20 January - 25 February

Anansi the Spider Classic West African and Caribbean tales about the master spinner of yarns, brought vividly to life onstage. Ages 3-7.

26 January - 19 February

The Trial of Josie K When Josie K finds herself

caught up in an absurd situation, she needs her best mate, Becca and all her courage to find her way out. Inspired by Kafka’s The Trial, this is a story of defiance, the power of friendship and finding hope. Ages 9-13.

Southbank Centre Southbank SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk

29 January

FUNharmonics Family Concert Help untangle the Colour Monster’s messy emotions through the wonder of orchestral music with the LPO.

11-13 February

Peppa Pig: My First Concert From Mozart to muddy puddles, everyone’s favourite pig family leads an introduction to live orchestra for the whole family.

12 February

Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes

The animated film based on Dahl’s classic children’s book is soundtracked live by the Philharmonia.

Gillian Lynne Theatre Drury Lane WC2B 5PW www.lionwitchonstage.com

Until 8 January

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime Britain and embark on the most magical of adventures. In a frozen, faraway land they meet Mr Tumnus the faun, talking beavers and Aslan (the noble king of Narnia). Samantha Womack stars as the coldest, most evil White Witch.

Duke of York’s Theatre St Martin’s Lane WC2N 4BG www.thedukeofyorks.com

Until 29 January

Mother Goose

Running an Animal Sanctuary for waifs and strays, Mother Goose and her husband live a wholesome life inside an abandoned Debenhams. But when a magical goose comes a-knocking, will fame & fortune get the better of them? A hilarious family-friendly panto starring Ian McKellen, John

Bishop and Mel Giedroyc.

Theatre Royal Catherine Street EC2B 5JF www.frozenthemusical.co.uk

Frozen, the Musical

The stage version of the hugely successful animated Disney film features unforgettable songs from the movie, including ‘Let It Go’ and ‘Do You Wanna Build a Snowman’, as well as catchy new numbers. Expect spectacular staging, amazing special effects and beautiful costumes in a magical world. Ages 6+.

Puppet Theatre Barge Blomfield Road W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com

Until 29 January

Little Red Riding Hood

The much-loved story of Red Riding Hood is injected with humour and new twists, performed using marionettes and shadow puppets. Ages 5+.

Various dates and venues Bach to Baby www.bachtobaby.com

Critically-acclaimed classical concerts for babies and their grownups. Outstanding musicians put on exhilarating performances where babies can ‘join in’ with as much noise as they like!

Daily tours

Terrible Thames From Tower Bridge Quay www.terriblethames.com

Provided by the Horrible Histories team, this is a boat tour all about the history of the Thames with the nasty bits left in. The fantastic journey incorporates immersive theatre to surprise and shock in equal measure as it delivers a unique take on London, thrilling both children and adults alike.

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy

Various dates and venues www.byobcomedy.com

A funny, friendly afternoon of top comedy, where baby can come too and join in with the rumpus. Shows feature a new line up of comedians each month with two acts plus a compere. Ages: grown ups plus 0-12 months.

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

Horniman Museum

London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk

Until 16 April

Elmer and Friends Walk through Elmer’s jungle, encountering David McKee’s beloved characters and stories along the way. As well as illustrations from the Elmer series, there’s original artwork from Not Now, Bernard and Mr Benn, as well as cosy reading areas and dressing up opportunities for the under 7s.

National Maritime Museum Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/nationalmaritime-museum

21 January

Lunar New Year

Celebrate the year of the Rabbit at the National Maritime Museum with free workshops, lion dance performances and talks developed with community partners.

Once a month on Saturdays

SENsory Sailors

An explore-the-collection session for families with children with special educational needs and disabilities. Ages 0 to 13. Free, book first.

Queen’s House Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/queens-house

Ongoing

All the Queen’s Men

Uncover the lives of Elizabeth I’s male courtiers and their personal and political relationships with the monarch at the Queen’s House. Featuring paintings of Sir Francis Drake, Thomas Seymour, and the Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I. All ages, free.

Royal Observatory Greenwich Blackheath Avenue SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk/royalobservatory

Various dates

The Sky Tonight

A live show taking visitors on a tour of what can be seen in

the night sky, complete with a fly-out to the edge of the visible universe. Ages 7+.

Cutty Sark

King William Walk SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark

Half term week and weekends

Cutty Sark Characters

Climb aboard to hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past. Ages 3+.

Various dates

Rig Climb Experience

Climb the famous masts and enjoy views of the Thames and London like no other, taking in the sights from the rigging of a true London icon. Ages 12+.

Dulwich Picture Gallery Gallery Road SE21 7AD www.dulwichpicturegallery. org.uk

Art Sundays

Be inspired to make art together as a family in these free creative workshops at the Gallery.

Family Fridays Free, expressive art-inspired activities for families.

The British Museum

Great Russell Street WC1B 3GD www.britishmuseum.org

Until 19 February

Hieroglyphs: Unlocking Ancient Egypt

Inscriptions and objects helped scholars unlock one of the world’s oldest civilisations 200 years ago. See the Rosetta Stone alongside some of the world’s most famous ancient objects on loan from national and international collections.

Natural History Museum Cromwell Road SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk

Monthly dates

Dino Snores for Kids

Spend a night amongst the museum’s incredible collections, exploring its world class galleries after hours and sleeping beneath Hope, the breath-taking blue whale skeleton in Hintze Hall. After setting up camp in one of the

amazing galleries, there’s an evening of awesome learning activities before bedtime, and breakfast in the morning. £65. Ages 7-11.

London Transport Museum

Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk

Explore the heritage of London and its transport system, and the stories of the people who have travelled and worked in the city over the last 200 years. Family events include singing, storytelling and craft activities. Accompanied children go free.

Museum of London Docklands West India Quay E14 4AL www.museumoflondon.org.uk/ docklands

21 & 22 January

Lunar New Year 2023 Celebrate Lunar new Year in a weekend of free workshops, performances and more.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Get your skates on It’s your last chance until NEXT Christmas to go ice skating in London. Book a healthy, fresh air spin to warm yourselves up:

Until 8 January Queen’s House SE10 www.rmg.co.uk/queens-house

Until 15 January

Somerset House WC2 www.somersethouse.org.uk

Until 25 February

Canary Wharf E14, www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk

Kew Royal Botanic Gardens Kew TW9 3AE www.kew.org

4 February - 5 March

Orchid Festival

A vibrant celebration of colour to brighten up the winter months, this year’s Orchid Festival will celebrate an African nation, with stunning plants and animal sculptures.

Until March Pip & Pop

A vibrant exhibition of rainbow artworks made entirely out of sugar and candy by artist Tanya Shultz.

Hever Castle & Gardens

Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk

11-19 February

Emerging Nature Wander the grounds to discover more about animals that retreat to cosy hideaways during the colder months and more about their environments. Visitors can join themed creative family workshops and let off steam in one of three play areas.

Jungle Book Reimagined

Dulwich Prep London provides an outstanding Values-led education.

offer a wide range of opportunities to nurture independent thinkers who go on to be thoughtful citizens of the world, equipped with a strong moral compass and the ability to adapt to our rapidly changing environment.

Early Years site is home to

Nursery and Reception classes. They are housed in an award-winning building with five acres of woodland and playing fields. We are now offering tours for 2023 entry every Wednesday at either 9.30am or 5.30pm. We look forward to meeting you soon