Families Upon Thames January/February 2023 Digital

Welcome

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

It’s hard for everyone to keep New Year’s resolutions – especially children. Download our free colour-in Reward Chart which may help to keep your children engaged.

Whilst everyone feels like hibernating in winter, getting outside is good for us so, to motivate you, we’ve got some ideas for seasonal family activities as well as some projects which will help welcome more wildlife to your garden. And, once you’re back indoors? We have some great ideas for making family nights in special.

Finally, in this issue, we have Britannica Magazine subscriptions and other goodies to giveaway! Apply inside the magazine. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Get in touch

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

By Jessica Joan

Top children’s book picks for 2023

Plan some great reading for your child with our children’s book suggestions, all just published or due to be published this year.

DJ Baby Funky novelty board book featuring spinning record turntables! Ages 1+.

Ten Little Bugs Part traditional counting rhyme, part fun-filled story - perfect for sharing. Ages 3-5.

Grandad’s Pride

Beautiful follow-up to Grandad’s Camper, filled with heart and purpose. Ages 3-6.

The Library Fish Learns to Read

Charming picture book about the unusually literary fish. Ages 4-8.

Weird but true! 2023

National Geographic annual loaded with brain bending facts and photos. Ages 7-10.

A Dragon Realm Adventure

Special World Book Day story (£1) in the actionpacked series. Ages 8+.

Dave Pigeon Bookshop Mayhem

Special World Book Day story (£1) - a funny, joyful romp. Ages 6+.

Valentine Crow & Mr Death

Distinctive, warm and funny. From highlyacclaimed Jenni Spangler. Ages 9+.

Yetis are the Worst!

Gilbert the Goblin’s new adventure – finding the legendary yeti. Ages 4-8.

Meet the Head

Families chats with Chris Skelton, Head of Newland House School.

Newland House is reputed to be a particularly happy school. Why do you think this is?

The culture of the school is vibrant and positive. I’m extremely fortunate to have staff that consistently go above and beyond to ensure our children are really well looked after, working together with parents to create a true sense of community.

What are your strengths as a leader?

I place the children at the centre of everything, which is the right focus for a school. I believe I’m approachable, a good listener, I always try to find positive solutions and I have sound judgement when making significant decisions.

What is it about Newland House that makes it stand out?

The way that we develop children in every area of their life. Our academic core is the most important part but we truly value the breadth of our curriculum and our extra-curricular programme. It’s why our children love coming to school and why they leave as wellrounded young people.

How are your personal values reflected in those of the school?

Being kind to others is our most

important core value and something that I actively model. Integrity too is expected from everyone in the Newland House community.

How does the school particularly promote the self-esteem and emotional well-being of pupils?

Most significantly by immersing children in our school’s healthy and positive culture. When times are tough, they are supported by both their peers and the adults that work with them, who also share in the joy of their successes. AntiBullying Week is such an important event in the annual calendar, our comprehensive programme of assemblies reinforces messages about good mental health and our Wellbeing Co-ordinator and Tilly, our therapy dog, support all children who need something more specialised.

Tackling toddler tantrums

By Sarah Ockwell-Smith

The ‘terrible twos’ aren’t called that for nothing! This stage of a child’s life is all about big feelings. Scientifically, it relates to the undeveloped prefrontal brain cortex meaning a child is unable to regulate their own emotions.

What is a tantrum?

Tantrums describe the state of an individual who is out of control, full of big emotions and stress hormones and unable to calm themselves down. Tantrums can happen right into adulthood but adults learn to self-soothe.

Toddlers don’t possess these skills yet. They are not being naughty or manipulative, they are simply being toddlers. Tantrums are a normal and exceedingly common feature of child development. Research has found that nearly nine in ten children between 18 months and 2 years regularly have tantrums, with most having at least one a day, lasting on average between thirty and sixty seconds (although it is not uncommon for them to occur far more frequently and last for much longer).

‘No’ to the naughty step

Contrary to popular belief, ignoring, shaming or punishing tantrums can make a toddler’s behaviour much worse. These approaches ignore a child’s difficult underlying feelings and don’t resolve the cause

or help the toddler regulate their behaviour. Experts have discovered just how much infant brains are affected by the level of parental care they receive. With nurturing attention, the part of their brains responsible for regulating emotion become better connected as they grow.

READ MORE

Dangerous things (you should let your child do)

Let them experience ‘age-appropriate risk’ under adult supervision AT ALL TIMES. Research shows that it’s essential for a balanced childhood.

Use power tools

The use of a power tool is an important life skill that is good to learn early.

Spend an hour blindfolded

Challenge your child to live blindfolded – it’s fun and builds empathy.

Play with fire

It’s best children learn about fire safely with you.

Throw rocks

Children can’t resist throwing - and it can be managed safely.

Use a pocketknife

A life skill that develops with experience, whittling is a fun introduction.

Climb a tree

Another irresistible urge for children - fun and beneficial when done safely.

Blow

up a bottle of coke

A classic science experiment which is spectacular - but messy!

Play conkers

This ancient British game can be safely played if done correctly.

Use a bow and arrow

Though potentially hazardous, it’s great for developing situational awareness.

New Year... New start

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. The only requirement is to get ready to have the best fun of the week!

Children are welcome to try a FREE class. With local venues in Brentford, Esher, Hampton, Isleworth, Kew, Kingston, Richmond, St Margarets, Surbiton, Teddington, Twickenham and Weybridge, there’s sure to be a class near you.

Find the right class and book HERE, EMAIL or call 020 7255 9120 to book a FREE trial class in one of the following venues.

Brentford: St Paul Church of England Primary School

Esher: Church of the Holy Name and St Andrews Urc

Hampton: Linden Hall Community Centre NEW Isleworth: St John’s and St Mary’s Church Hall

Kew: Kew Community Centre

Kingston: Alexandra Infants School & The Parish of St John the Baptist

Richmond: Vineyard Life Church, The Russell Primary School & Holy Trinity Church Centre St Margarets: St Margarets Catholic Church Hall

Surbiton: Surbiton Hill Methodist Church

Teddington: Teddington Methodist Church

Twickenham: Twickenham United Reform Church & The Turks Head

Weybridge: St James’ Parish Centre

Introducing Stagecoach Weybridge!

‘The first thing my daughter thinks about at the weekend is her class at Stagecoach Weybridge. She absolutely loves performing arts and always returns home buzzing’ Victoria M, Parent

Stagecoach Weybridge has been giving children ages 4 to 18 the joy of performing for over thirty years and facilities at its Weybridge venues - Heathside School (weekends) and St James

Parish Centre (weekdays) - are absolutely ideal for its classes. At St James Parish Centre, classes are designed for children ages 4 to 6 are introduced to performing arts and develop skills such as team work, self-awareness, listening and confidence.



Free trial

Ballet lessons and children’s parties for ages 3+ Magical, fun and creative Saturdays at Surbiton High School and Kingston Academy info@bellarinas.com 07949 007296 www.bellarinas.com

The team at Stagecoach Weybridge is passionate about performing arts and its benefits and ensures that Stagecoach offers children the foundation on which to build Creative Courage For Life.

To talk to Mike, call 07939 208234, EMAIL or visit website HERE.

Experience Brooklands this winter

Stay nice and toasty this winter as you explore Brooklands Museum’s thirty two acre site in Weybridge. An interactive and living experience, celebrating decades of innovation, the Museum tells the stories of men and women who achieved groundbreaking history in British motorsport and aviation, continuing to break records time and time again.

Discover the collections through hands-on experiences and meet the volunteers who can share stories and insights based on real-life experiences at Brooklands. Watch out for family favourites and brand-new events in 2023, including Search for Speed during February half term and Best of British during King Charles III Coronation weekend in May, at which Paddington will be making a special appearance! Working Vehicle Day, in July, is sure to appeal to the kid in us all.

Book HERE

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

Every Tue Storytelling for Preschoolers at Landmark Arts Centre Art, yoga and musical storytelling. Ages 2-4.

Every Sat & Sun Tudor Cookery & Roasting at Hampton Court Palace

Try your hand at hand at roasting Tudor style or work as tournebroce in Henry VIII’s kitchen.

Every Sun Junior Parkrun

Free 2k event at Bushy Park, Latchmere, Hanworth, Kingston, Osterley, Surbiton & Twickenham. Ages 4-14.

Every Tue to Fri 3-26 Jan Free Winter Warmer Activities at Museum of Richmond

Drop in for some FREE cosy crafts this winter.

Fri 6, 20 Jan & 3 Feb Museum Monkeys at Chertsey Museum Join Charlie the Chimp for singing, stories and crafts. For under 5s.

Sat 21 Jan & Sat 18 Feb Young Archaeology Club

A group to learn and get hands on with the past. Ages 8-16.

Sun 29 Jan & Sun 26 Feb All Aboard Club at London Museum of Water & Steam Autistic and ADHD children can build and play with huge train sets.

Daily from 8 Feb Snowdrop Walk at Hever Castle

Self-guided snowdrop walk will take you through the woodland areas, around the Outer Moat and into the colourful Winter Garden.

FEB HALF TERM

Sat 11 Feb to Sun 19 Feb Emerging Nature at Hever Castle

Get in touch with the great outdoors with free pebble painting workshop and interactive audio guide.

Sat 11 Feb – Sun 19 Feb Search for Speed at Brooklands Museum

Enjoy an action-packed week of a family craft workshop, an exciting activity trail, Concorde Supersonic Walkthroughs, pedal planes and cars, costumed storytellers and much more.

Sun 12 Feb Let’s Get Creative at Orleans House Gallery Join in a festive art activity delivered by the artist in residence.

Mon 13 to Wed 15 Feb Perform Narnia Holiday Course in Twickenham A drama, dance and singing adventure awaits on the other side of the wardrobe in a holiday course based on The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe. The workshop runs from 10am to 3pm daily from 13 to 15 February at The Crossway Centre in Twickenham. Ages 4-10.

Mon 13 to Fri 17 Feb Stagecoach Valentine Musical Theatre Workshop in Teddington Children will work on creating a show with costumes and lights to share with family and friends at the end of the week. Two age groups: Little Love Bugs 9.30am to 12.30pm (ages 4 to 6) and Valentine Special 10am to 4pm (ages 6 to 17).

Tue 14 to Fri 17 Feb Family Workshops at Museum of Richmond Explore Richmond’s history, get creative and spend quality time together.

Wed 15 Feb Karma Kids at Bingham Riverhouse, Richmond A workshop to explore mindfulness and empowering tools in fun and creative ways. Ages 6-14.

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

FEB HALF TERM CONT...

Sat 11 to Sun 19 Feb Waterpower at London Museum of Water & Steam

Hands-on STEAM activities, creative with our community art project and Water Movers Science Show for plenty of half term fun.

Sat 25 Feb Mum2mum Nearly New Sale in Teddington Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby and children’s gear.

Sun 5 Mar

Let’s Get Creative at Orleans House Gallery Join in a festive art activity delivered by the artist in residence.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE DORKING HALLS

The Tiger Who Came to Tea, 31 Jan-1 Feb Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show. Ages 3+.

Jurassic Earth 11 Feb State-of-the-art animatronic life-like dinosaurs in an interactive and exciting story-telling show. Ages 3+.

The Little Mermaid Family Show 14 Feb Sparkling costumes and lots of fun for all the family.

THE ELECTRIC THEATRE, GUILDFORD

The Railway Children - A Musical 1-5 Feb A new musical adaptation of the E. Nesbit classic family novel. All ages.

The Princess and the Frog 12 Feb Classical ballet to charm audiences young and old. Ages 2-9.

THE EXCHANGE, TWICKENHAM

Nick Cope Family Performance 28 Jan Charming musical fun for children and parents alike. Ages 2+.

Strong Women Science 16 Feb Circus science show starring two women scientists turned circus performers. Ages 4-15.

G LIVE, GUILDFORD

Cirque - The Greatest Show, 6 & 7 Feb Award-winning, smash-hit circus musical that’s fun for all the family.

Pop Princess 18 Feb Musical spectacular starring four fabulous fairytale princesses. Spontaneous Storytelling Live 26 Feb Interactive, fun and playful storytelling hour. Ages 6-11.

LYRIC THEATRE, HAMMERSHITH

Woodland Tales with Granddad 28 Jan Extraordinary puppets, with an environmental message. Ages 3+.

Mischief and Mystery in Moomin Valley 4 Feb Magical puppetry, an ingenious pop-up book set, original music and interactive play. Ages 4-7.

Mary Anning and the Sands of Time 11 Feb Live actors and prehistoric puppetry bring the Jurassic world to life. Ages 3+.

Burglar Bill 14-18 Feb Classic tale brought to life with exciting sets, puppets and original music and songs. Ages 3+.

Tom Thumb 25 Feb Classic story brought to life with feathery spinning birds, a flying house and a portable forest. Ages 3+.

Mister Magnolia 4 Mar Fun family extravaganza. Ages 4-10.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE Ministry of Science Live 29 Jan Join presenters as they dive deep into the world of science with a few loud bangs. Ages 6+.

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE

The Extraordinary TimeTravelling Adventures of Baron Munchausen 5 Mar This show features awardwinning comedians and improvisers. Ages 7+.

OSO ARTS CENTRE, BARNES

Captain Cauliflower and Marvin the Mischievous Moose 21 Jan Join an adventure filled with extreme silliness and unquestionable danger. Ages 3-8.

Seed Heart 11-12 Feb Tells a tale of human impact on the environment and what we can do to restore our green planet. Ages 4+.

Comedy Club 4 Kids 18 Feb Top stand-up comedians and sketch acts without the rude bits. Ages 6+.

POLKA THEATRE, WIMBLEDON

Grandad, Me and Teddy Too until 29 Jan A heart-warming show that celebrates the special place grandparents hold in young children’s lives. Ages 2-5.

Ministry of Science Live

Jack v Giant 11 Feb-26 Mar

New musical based on the classic fairy tale, brought to life through puppetry and music. Ages 4-8.

Rise and Fall 15-19 Feb Poetic and intriguing performance for young audiences about holding on and letting go. Ages 2+.

Belongings 25-26 Feb Unique blend of physicality, innovative design and original music. Ages 6-11.

RICHMOND THEATRE

Ministry of Science Live 21 Jan

Join presenters as they dive deep into the world of science with a few loud bangs too. Ages 6+.

Story-time with Little Supernovas 17 Feb Join Little Supernovas for Little Red Riding Hood. Ages 18mth-5.

Fireman Sam Saves the Circus 26 Feb

All singing, dancing, action-packed show. Ages 3+.

THE ROSE THEATRE, KINGSTON

Room on the Broom 14-19 Feb

Magical Olivier Award nominated fun-filled adaptation of the picture book. Ages 3+.

Unexpected Twist 15-19 Mar

A thrilling re-telling of the Charles Dickens classic, Oliver Twist by Michael Rosen. Ages 8+.

YVONNE ARNAUD THEATRE, GUILDFORD

Burglar Bill 14 Jan

Classic tale brought to life with exciting sets, puppets and original music and songs. Ages 3+.

Family meals made easier

What is batch cooking?

Cooking multiple meals at one time and then storing for later use.

Food is cooked in a ‘batch’, then stored in airtight containers. Meals are stored in portions for ease.

Batch cooking often involves doubling, tripling or quadrupling ingredients.

What you need

Big pans - you’re cooking bulk so ensure you have enough big pans to cope.

Large mixing bowls to bring all those ingredients together.

Storage containers and resealable freezer bags. Choose the right size for your family.

Labels. Keep track of what you’ve got and when you cooked it.

Intro to batch cooking

Benefits of batch cooking

Saves money - buying food in bulk is cheaper. Saves time – you don’t need to cook every evening.

You are cooking when you want to and not when you have to.

It’s healthier as you always have a tasty nutritious meal on hand.

Top tips

Set aside a few hours so you’re not rushed.

Prepare ingredients - weighing, measuring and chopping first will make the job easier.

Clean as you go and, if making several recipes at once, tidy up as you go too.

Cool before you freeze; food will keep better and save fridge energy.

Meal planning

This 2 minute video from The Batch Lady shows exactly what you’ll need to start batch cooking freezer meals.

This short video from The Batch Lady offers a great rundown on how to plan weekly meals for your family.

Best

cooking recipes

Macaroni

New online children’s physio directory

Parents wanting to locate a local children’s physiotherapist can now use an online directory launched by Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists.

The majority of children’s physiotherapists work in the NHS. Your GP can advise about local services and make a referral, if appropriate. However, some parents choose to seek advice and treatment from an independent or private physiotherapist either instead of, or to supplement, NHS care. Many children need support from a physiotherapist at some time during their childhood. This may be sought for advice and treatment relating to posture and movement or for acute injuries.

Qualified children’s physiotherapists are regulated, have additional expertise in child development and childhood conditions and the right skill base and knowledge to deliver the best care for babies and children. Find out more HERE

Managing children’s anxiety

Be fully present

Phone alerts and notifications are constantly distracting and family members often have to compete. Being fully present with the activity or conversation we’re having with our children - without distraction - demonstrates that we value ‘real’ time together and are fully available.

Avoid fuelling anxiety

Limit screen time

Research shows that too much screen time can lead to mental health issues in children, whilst lost time interacting with family/ peers can impact their social development. Monitor screen time, ensure content is ageappropriate, communicate about inappropriate images and model healthy device habits.

Spend time in nature

Children absorb emotions like sponges and overhearing the news or emotionally-charged adult conversation can fuel their anxiety. If your child is worrying about the future, use mindfulness to 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.

Nature-deficit disorder (NDD) can contribute to higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. But 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 and they provide the perfect setting for free family activities.

Claire at Bridgemaker Mindfulness shares her top tips.

Managing children’s anxiety

Claire at Bridgemaker Mindfulness shares her top tips.

Encouraging reading

Sharing feelings

Reading is relaxing, distracting and a good alternative to screen time. A 2009 University of Sussex study 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.

Can’t fall asleep?

Children are more likely to express their feelings when they sense we are fully available. Sitting somewhere that they have to pass by when they return from being elsewhere and gently inviting them to join us can be a good start. Listen intently without moving into ‘fix-it mode.’

Enrol on a course

Creating a comforting, wind down routine can help (reading a book together, listening to soothing music). Try placing hands on the belly, breathing easily and focusing on the breath, following the gentle movement of the belly that rises and falls. For the busy mind, try counting the breath to ten (in – 1, out – 2 etc) over and over.

Mindfulness apps/recorded meditations can help adults and children to relax and unwind but nothing compares with attending a course with a qualified mindfulness teacher which teaches key mindfulness skills. However, if, despite your best intentions and care, your child’s behaviour or anxiety level becomes worrying, do seek medical advice from a GP.