Families Upon Thames September/October 2023 Print

Do you have a child in year 5 or 6?

Our FREE online maths test will help you identify the gaps in your child’s knowledge and the areas requiring further improvement. Go to aepublications.co.uk to take our test.

• Do you know your child’s current mathematical ability?

• Is your child’s maths strong enough for their transition to secondary school?

Take our free test to find out.

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Welcome

So the new school year rolls around again and your child is heading off to school with bright and shiny new uniform and gear and hopefully a big smile. Leaving you with perhaps just a little time on your hands to delve into our great Education feature and explore how to support your child’s learning this year. Whatever stage your child is at you’ll find something of interest, including tips for attending Parents’ Evening and discovering more about your child’s learning style.

And it won’t be long before your child starts to get excited about half term and, in particular, Halloween. So take a look at our fab costume ideas and start planning early.

Looking for a local playgroup? Check out our new guide. And for details of what’s going on locally for families this autumn, you’ll find plenty to amuse everyone in our What’s On section.

Calling all young Scientists!

BA(Hons)Languages Professional Handwriting Analysis/Graphology Member of the National Handwriting Association . DAB checked

Linda Editor, Families Upon Thames

Making the most of Parents’ Evening

By Justina Gapper

As the new school year gets going, many parents will be anticipating talking to their child’s teacher(s) at a Parents’ Evening. Depending on the school, these consultations will happen at least once a year, sometimes more frequently. If your child is in Reception, this may be a new experience; if you have older children, you may have been to several or even many Parents’ Evenings already.

It’s almost impossible to ask questions of teachers at school drop-offs and pick-ups, so for most parents, the booked Parents’ Evening slot is the only real opportunity for a proper chat with their child’s teaching staff. Therefore it’s really important to maximise the time available in these one-to-one consultations and make sure you get all the information you need.

What to expect

While Parents’ Evenings will vary slightly in format from school to school and year to year, at a minimum you should expect to hear how your child is performing in numeracy and literacy against the expected levels for their age group.

Much more information will be conveyed as your child gets older. Consultations may also cover your child’s behaviour, levels of effort and social and emotional development.

Be prepared

This may sound obvious but unless you want to risk discovering that all the questions you want to ask have vanished from your head, write them down in the run up to Parent’s Evening to make sure you cover them.

Let the teacher speak

If you do have specific questions, it’s best to let the teacher speak first so that they can cover everything they need. The exception is if you need clarification or your question is related to what is being discussed at that moment.

Don’t compare

Try not to focus on comparing your child’s progress with his/her peers or even siblings. The teacher will focus on how your child is achieving against expected levels for their age. It isn’t useful to ask how their performance compares to others in the class. Stay focussed on your own child.

Focus on your child’s level of effort

Don’t underestimate the importance of effort. This is as important as achievement as it reveals a lot about your child’s behaviour, character and motivation. How your child gets on with teachers and peers socially is also very important.

For a quick overview

Ask about your child’s strengths and weaknesses. This will give you a good idea of their overall performance and help you identify the areas in which you should be offering more support at home.

Deal with unexpected news productively

You may hear something about your child that you are not expecting. If this is about a negative aspect of their behaviour or performance in a specific learning area, this may be difficult both to hear and accept.

Try not to get defensive. A teacher I spoke to told me of a consultation during which a father became very accusatory and angry, insisting that the teacher’s perception was incorrect as his child ‘didn’t struggle at home.’ If you do hear something unexpected, ask how you can work with your child to better support them. Teachers may have already prepared a response to this question in advance.

Writing notes

Don’t attempt to write more than a couple of bullet points while the consultation is happening, otherwise you may miss something important that’s being said.

Justina Gapper is mother of twins, journalist and communications specialist.

Afterwards

Write a summary

Now is the time to make a written record of what was said. This can be useful to show other family members but also as a reminder for yourself in the coming months.

Don’t worry, you can see the teacher again

Don’t fret too much if you do feel that there was something that you wanted to talk about but didn’t get the chance. Ask to meet the teacher again, even on a regular basis, if you feel this is warranted.

Involve your child

Parents’ Evenings are about your child, of course. If they are old enough, ask them which aspects of their learning or behaviour they think their teacher might bring up. Discuss it with them, so you are better prepared for the meeting. Note any questions they’d like you to ask.

Afterwards, highlight all the positives that came up. Talk with them about their teacher’s feedback, specifically any home support you might be able to offer if there are particular areas they’re finding more challenging.

Meet the Head

In three words, how would students at TPS describe you?

Kind, fun and smart (well-dressed rather than intelligent!)

What is your biggest challenge as Head Teacher and your biggest achievement so far?

My biggest challenge: ensuring that TPS children have tremendous fun making the most of every opportunity available! My biggest achievement to date: securing ‘Excellent’ in all areas of our ISI Inspection last year, rightfully showcasing TPS’ outstanding provision. I’m also proud of our recent fundraising event; over forty staff walked a marathon to raise over £9000 for the RNLI Teddington Lifeboat Station. It was an amazing day.

What are your strengths as a leader?

Building a team with a diverse range of skills and placing trust in my colleagues; being an empathetic and considerate leader who values everyone’s contribution. And, given the privilege I have of leading such a brilliant school and the preciousness of every child’s educational journey, a strong work ethic.

What’s your vision for the school for the next five years?

To provide an even richer learning experience through subjects and learning experiences beyond the classroom. We’re working to expand our clubs programme and have introduced the Junior Duke, a younger version of the Duke of Edinburgh Award, which teaches children key life skills, with over 170 TPS children participating! We’re adding new school trips and new activities such as triathlon.

What qualities make TPS stand out?

Its remarkably friendly and upbeat feel and its positive and welcoming environment –it’s palpable. Each individual is celebrated

Meet the Head Special feature

accomplishments, boosting children’s self-esteem. Our ‘BOUNCE’ programme, run by Raising Resilience and developed by clinical psychologists, offers a whole school approach to emotional well-being, mental health and resilience.

What benefits are there for boys in staying on at TPS for Year 7 and 8?

How long have I got? The boys who stay with us have the significant advantage of building on their Year 6 learning, working closely, in small groups, with teachers who know them very well. Outstanding subject specialist teaching means Year 7 and 8 cohorts reach a very high level of learning.

Boys are also given responsibilities to develop their leadership skills, independence and focus, preparing them for future success.

and cherished and the outstanding provision leads to excellent academic and personal achievements and happy, healthy, kind children who love coming to school. I’m often asked if TPS could continue to age 18!

In what areas do you think TPS can still improve?

We’re enhancing our swimming programme, creating more opportunities for outdoor learning for the older children and increasing the usage of the amazing new radio station in our Digital Media Suite. For Senior Prep, we’re launching a new curriculum with a more skills orientated focus, based on the PSB (PreSenior Baccalaureate), with opportunities for independent study and cross curricular learning - a step forward from the traditional Common Entrance focus.

What initiatives does the school particularly embrace to promote pupils’ self-esteem and emotional well-being?

Our weekly Celebration Assembly highlights a wide range of individual and collective pupil achievements and

How do you support parents in choosing the right senior school for their child?

From Year 4, we assess a wide range of school options with parents, including state-maintained, grammar, boarding and day, before having individual parent meetings focused on which schools suit an individual child best. I meet every family, some several times, to discuss options. It’s a core part of my role and I really enjoy visiting senior schools to build strong links in the interests of our children.

What co-curricular opportunities are you proudest to have introduced?

Last year’s new sports tour saw senior pupils travel to Manchester for a residential trip in partnership with Manchester Thunder and Manchester City FC. They received top level coaching and represented the school playing local club sides. This year we plan to head to the Netherlands for a hockey and football tour.

What keeps you awake at night?

One or more of my three cats, two being kittens! Not much else, given fulsome workdays and lots of healthy exercise.

What is your most useless skill?

I’m pretty handy at juggling but have yet to impress anyone here at TPS!

What is your real-life superpower?

I love cycling and running. I’m attempting to qualify for the GB duathlon age group team this year, so fingers crossed.

Netflix or newspaper?

I enjoy reading the newspaper, though I’m also partial to a good series: the Mandalorian on Disney was a recent favourite.

Twickenham Prep School is an independent, co-educational school in Hampton for children ages 4 to 13. For more information, visit www.twickenhamprep.org.uk

Families chats with Oliver Barrett, Head of Twickenham Prep School (TPS).

Shrewsbury House Pre-Preparatory School

Open Morning

Friday 6th October 2023

9:30am-11:30am

At Shrewsbury House Pre-Prep, we offer an excellent academic provision combined with outstanding pastoral care for boys and girls from Nursery to Year 2. This will be a great opportunity to see the whole school in action including our wonderful Nursery setting.

For more information, please contact our Registrar, Mrs Jules Akhurst: shppadmissions@shstrust.net | 01372 462781 Or visit our website to register your interest.

‘Laying Foundations for Life’

Celebrating different learning styles

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

Just as none of us look the same, everyone is born with tendencies towards certain learning styles when developing literacy, language and motor skills. Recognising your child’s learning style is important in understanding how they access their learning, particularly if they appear to be struggling in certain areas.

Visual learners rely on what they see. Encourage them to use visual aids, sit at the front of the class and write down or draw information.

Kinesthetic learners learn best through doing and moving. They benefit from using tools, acting out or role-playing new information and having freedom of movement.

Auditory learners learn best through hearing and listening. Engage in discussions about what they are learning, read stories out loud and repeat information.

Solitary learners absorb information independently of other people. Let them make notes and recite back, provide quiet learning spaces and give opportunities for sharing their learning. Verbal learners respond well to written or spoken words. Play word games, use rhymes, acronyms and mnemonics, read their writing aloud, encourage discussion and debate.

Logical learners use logic and structures in order to learn effectively. Provide problem-solving tasks, challenge them to work things out for themselves and have them verbalise ideas and answers.

Identifying your child’s learning style

Observe how your child naturally interacts with the world around them and also note weaknesses: what types of tasks do they find challenging?

Open Day at Lady Eleanor Holles Junior School

Burlington House, 177 Uxbridge Road, Hampton, TW12 1BD 020 8979 2173 junior-office@lehs.org.uk www.lehs.org.uk

Wednesday 27 September and Wednesday 18 October. Register at www.lehs.org.uk/admissions/open-events

Or drop in to Open Morning on Saturday 14 October.

Watch how your child expresses themselves. Children will be more expressive through their natural learning style. Auditory learners express themselves best through words whilst visual learners are more apt to reveal their emotions through facial expressions. Kinesthetic learners use more body language and may seem unable to stop themselves fidgeting.

Consider your child’s interests. These will likely reflect their learning styles. Auditory learners usually show an interest in music and sounds. Visual learners often have interests both in reading, watching TV and looking at interesting objects. With kinesthetic learners, look for an interest in physical activities.

See how your child solves problems. Children lean into their learning styles. Auditory learners tend to talk through and discuss possible solutions whilst visual learners use their eyes to solve problems. Kinesthetic learners will usually try to solve problems with their hands.

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

Why different learning styles?

While the information people receive might be the same, each of our brains processes information differently, influenced by several factors, one of which is learning style.

Your child’s tendencies and preferences for learning can be influenced by peers, cultures, age, their own experiences and available educational materials. What works for one child doesn’t necessarily work for the next.

Understanding the preferred styles of different learners can greatly impact their successes in the classroom as well as contributing to their own sense of personal development and achievement.

With the help of observant parents and teachers, children can benefit from understanding and engaging their natural tendencies. But, it is a rare child who solely works best with one style alone. By understanding and practising a range of different learning styles, a child will have a bigger ‘toolbox’ to call on, finding a combination that enhances their ability to understand, recall and use the information they learn.

Do you have a child in year 5 or 6?

AE Publications is passionate about children’s numeracy and helping them achieve their full potential.

If your child is in year 5 or year 6, do you really know how well they are doing in maths? Well, AE Publications’ FREE online maths test will show you. Their test covers all the main subject areas of the maths curriculum for this age group. It is crucial that your child’s numeracy is strong enough for their transition to secondary school, otherwise they will struggle not only in maths but also in other subjects such as physics, chemistry, IT and design technology which all require a good understanding of numerical elements.

AE Publications’ free online maths test comprises thirty questions and is designed to give you accurate information about the current level of your child’s maths ability.

Depending on their performance, the result will also trigger recommendations and suggestions as to how AE Publications’ maths materials can help your child improve in year 5 or year 6.

To take their free online maths test, go to www.aepublications. co.uk

After your child has taken the test, you will be sent a link to view a video of a fully UK-qualified teacher working through the answers and the correct methodology.

There is no need to provide an email address to access the free test and receive your child’s percentage score. An email address is only required should you wish to view a full breakdown of the questions your child has answered and to also receive further information, including a link to the explanation video

and a coupon code to redeem against a FREE Maths Bonus Pack (includes a Times Tables Workbook 2 RRP £9.99) when purchasing an AE Publications KS2 Maths Year 5/6 Book Bundle.

For over twenty years, AE Publications has been supporting children to improve their English and maths skills and offers a range of ‘how-to’ workbooks, test books and test packs, all rigorously classroom-tested, which help your child improve their educational attainment.

The workbooks contain stepped-out examples with full explanations. The test books will reinforce your child’s technique and knowledge and the test packs should be used for final exam preparation. The methodologies have been successfully used in AE Tuition classes for over thirty years and are also used by a large number of tutors across the country.

AE Publications’ SATs Maths series and Times Tables series are dedicated to ensuring every child has a sound understanding of numeracy skills.

More info at www.aepublications.co.uk

Warmth and vibrancy at Newland House

Rated Excellent by ISI, Newland House is an independent, co-educational prep school and nursery in Twickenham, for children ages 3 to 13.

The school’s warm and vibrant community is built on core values of kindness, honesty, courage and respect. In small classes, skilled and experienced teachers ensure that children thrive and make exceptional progress, often achieving well above the national average. A broad and balanced curriculum fosters academic ambition while also providing many opportunities for children to explore their passions and discover their talents.

Excellent pastoral care ensures pupils are happy, engaged and well looked after and Tilly the therapy dog, provides extra support and comfort when needed!

22nd

Going on to gain places at range of selective senior schools, children leave Newland House as confident, well-rounded individuals with an understanding of their role in wider society. Attend a Welcome Morning to discover more.

More info at www.newlandhouse.net

How can AI support dyslexia?

By Usha Patel

Recently, the parent of a dyslexic student expressed their concern to me about their son’s preference for writing essays longhand instead of using speech-to-text software. Despite being offered assistive technology, he found that writing and rewriting by hand helped organise his jumbled thoughts and process ideas effectively.

Assistive technology plays a significant role in education, supporting students in all kinds of ways. Spelling and grammar software, for example, is widely used and not just by individuals with dyslexia. It helps improve spelling, grammar, punctuation and sentence structure. These tools enhance the ideas generated by individuals and guide them to ensure accuracy.

Artificial intelligence (AI) takes assistive technology a step further. When asked a question, Natural language processing tool ChatGPT can provide multiple options and ideas, serving as a valuable starting point. However, some individuals with dyslexia, particularly those who struggle with reading, may find it challenging to sift through the responses. So, what can be done to maximise its usefulness?

Education specific AI tools

AI technology can help bring some order to students’ ideas and form them into coherent arguments. This is something that assistive technology cannot do alone. For example, if the student who prefers writing longhand had access to AI technology that could assist him both in writing up his thoughts and managing paragraphs into a logical order, it would greatly benefit him.

With repeated use, the student could acquire the necessary techniques himself and learn the organisation process independently.

Natural language processing tools like ChatGPT can suggest improvements, correct factual errors and enhance the readability of content. This can be especially valuable for dyslexic individuals who struggle with remembering and recalling details, such as in a history project where dates and facts must be accurate.

Overall, AI technology can be a powerful ally in education, assisting students with dyslexia in organising their thoughts and enhancing their overall learning experience.

On the other hand, an over-reliance on AI could inhibit a child’s ability to think creatively for themselves. Take our use of mobile phones for example. We no longer have to remember frequently dialed numbers until we lose our phones. How many numbers from your phone can you remember yourself? AI should therefore be used in moderation.

Usha Patel is a neurocognitive therapist at Raviv Practice London. If you are interested in learning more about what therapies and methods could be combined with AI to help a dyslexic child achieve their potential, visit www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk

First cohort of girls starts at The Mall School

From this September, The Mall School in Twickenham will welcome girls into the school in Reception as it moves towards becoming a fully co-educational school and nursery for children ages 6 months to 11 years.

Girls joining the school will now be able to benefit from what The Good Schools Guide describes as its ‘inclusive yet stretching ethos’ and dedicated preparation for 11+ examinations. The Mall achieves extraordinary results, despite being a non-selective school, thanks to its inspiring teaching and pastoral care.

As a forward-looking school, The Mall believes this is the ideal time to make this exciting change. The introduction of co-education and a nursery is a natural development which responds to the significant demand locally for a school that serves the community and suits modern family life.

The Mall is holding its annual Open Evening for prospective and current parents on Tuesday 26 September (5pm to 7pm). It will launch its new interactive and vibrant playground at the event. Email admissions@themallschool.org.uk to reserve a place.

Using AI effectively with dyslexic children

While AI can be a valuable tool, there are a few considerations to keep in mind for students with dyslexia:

Personalised learning needs: Every student with dyslexia has their own unique learning needs and preferences. While AI can offer personalised recommendations and suggestions, it may not always cater to the specific learning styles, paces or individual needs of students with dyslexia.

Lack of contextual understanding: AI systems operate through algorithms and patterns derived from vast amounts of data. While they can provide information and generate responses, they may lack contextual understanding and nuanced interpretation. Emotional and social aspects: Learning involves not only acquiring knowledge but also emotional and social engagement. Although beneficial in certain aspects, AI cannot fully replace the emotional connection and support provided by human interaction.

Students with dyslexia have unique learning needs that require a personalised approach. Combining the benefits of AI tools with human support can create a more effective and well-rounded learning experience.

Self-settling without the tears

By Stephanie Modell

The term ‘sleep training’ can have negative connotations but is often misunderstood. Foetuses sleep in utero with no learning involved. However, falling asleep in response to external cues, rather than internal biological cues, is a learned behaviour which you can influence.

Babies learn by association. If, within the first six months of life they have always been fed or rocked to sleep, this is what they will associate with going to sleep. When they wake during their many sleep cycles at night they may need this association to get them back to sleep.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with feeding or rocking to sleep if it’s working for you but if your baby is over six months old and you are struggling to sustain this throughout the night, you may wish to encourage some sleep independence.

Gradual retreat

Gradual retreat is my favoured method of helping a baby fall asleep. It’s a kind and responsive technique that doesn’t involve leaving your baby to cry. Before you begin, ensure your baby has an age-appropriate nap routine. There’s a fine line between a baby being over-tired or under-tired and both will make going to sleep challenging.

Establish a gentle wind down bedtime routine which will ideally include a bath. If you give the majority of the last feed of the day before the bath with just a top up after, you can break the association between feeding and sleeping.

Once your baby is ready for bed, do whatever you’d normally do to get them to sleep, which may be feeding, rocking or patting until they are sleepy but not fully asleep. Settle them into their cot and keep a reassuring hand on them for a short time. Stand back and see what happens. Sometimes they’ll surprise you and fall asleep!

If they start to get upset, shush, pat, sing or whatever helps to calm them. If nothing works, pick them up, soothe until calm and then resettle them into their cot. Repeat as many times as necessary.

The goal is for them to achieve the last stage of falling to sleep on their own. By being consistent and doing the same thing at every sleep, your baby starts to learn that the cot is a safe place to be and trusts that you will respond to them. Once you have

made some progress and your baby is starting to associate their cot with sleep, you can start to gradually put them down when they are less and less drowsy.

The next step is to gradually cut down the interventions. If you’ve been shushing and patting, reduce it to just one or the other. Your goal is to be able to put your baby down awake, say ‘night night’ and leave them to happily fall asleep.

All babies are different; some will progress more quickly than others but, as this method does not involve leaving your baby to cry, you can use it at any age as you will always be responding to their needs.

Once your baby is self-settling at the start of the night they are less likely to wake during the night unless they are genuinely hungry. The key points to remember are time, repetition and consistency. Happy sleeping!

Stephanie Modell is a sleep consultant, maternity nurse, mum to 25-year-old triplets and author of The Baby Sleep Guide (Summersdale). The new revised edition is available at www.bookshop.org

Before you begin

Is your baby in good health?

Do they have a daytime nap?

Have they had enough to eat and drink?

Do they have a regular, predictable bedtime routine?

Is their room dark? This is essential for the production of the sleep hormone melatonin.

White noise: if you live in a noisy location or have a busy household, it can be a helpful soundscape for peaceful sleep.

Is your baby too hot or too cold during the night? Both may cause night waking.

Why choose performing arts classes for your child?

By Alexa Brant

A range of research studies have found that students who participate in the arts demonstrate a higher academic performance and test results AND perform better in areas that contribute to success outside the classroom, such as participating in community service and being elected to class office.

There are many other benefits too:

Self-confidence

Aspects of performing arts, especially improvisation, help children understand how to appraise situations, think outside the box and be more confident in unfamiliar situations. They learn to trust their ideas and abilities and apply them at school and in life. Equally, dance helps build self-confidence with each new routine practised and mastered.

Imagination

Being creative and learning to make creative choices helps children think of new ideas, allowing them to view the world around them in different ways. Remember Einstein said: ‘Imagination is more important than knowledge.’

Empathy

Understanding characters, roles and the sub-text of plays and musicals allows students to relate better to different situations, backgrounds and cultures they encounter in real life, encouraging them to show compassion and tolerance for others.

Concentration and memory

Practising, rehearsing and performing develops the abilities and skills necessary for children to be able to focus their minds, bodies and voices and improves their memory. Memory requires exercise, just like a muscle!

Communication and socialisation

Dance and performing arts are highly social activities. Children learn how to work as part of a team and develop a greater sense

of trust and co-operation, while making new friends. They also develop their listening and observation skills. Acting improves vocal projection, articulation, tone of speech and expression. An effective performing arts class embraces both extroverted and introverted children. Combining the creative ideas and the abilities of all participants is required for the best outcomes. This requires all those taking part to engage in discussions, feedback, rehearsing and performance.

Physical health

Dance improves flexibility, coordination, balance, range of motion, stamina, muscle tone, strength and posture. Performing and dancing on stage also helps children develop spatial awareness, become less clumsy and pay more attention to others sharing their space. They can feel more at home in their own skin.

And, lastly, of course, it’s all great fun!

Dance with Suzanna Raymond School of Dance

Suzanna Raymond School of Dance (SRSD) has been established for over forty five years. It continues to offer a high standard of classical ballet, jazz, contemporary, modern and tap classes in Teddington and Hampton.

The school’s aim is to encourage a love of dance, whilst developing sound technique and a balance of enjoyment and discipline. Its students build confidence, skills and friendships that last a lifetime.

Following RAD Ballet and ISTD Tap and Modern syllabuses, classes for children ages 3 to 18+ are offered weekdays and Saturdays. All teachers are fully qualified and CRB checked.

Parent testimonial: ‘My daughter joined SRSD to dance when she was 4 and she hasn’t stopped! Now 11, she loves SRSD’s summer camps, her weekly ballet lessons and scholars’ class. SRSD focusses on technique and getting the best out of their pupils but never loses sight of making dance fun. We love the feeling of family that is across everything they do.’

More info at www.suzannaraymondschoolofdance.com

Give your child Creative Courage for Life

Stagecoach Performing Arts was founded in 1988 and continues to grow as the UK’s largest network of extracurricular performing arts schools for children with fifty-five thousand students enrolled in its weekly classes worldwide.

As one of the first extra-curricular children’s performing arts schools in the country, Stagecoach aims to inspire its students, making a difference to their lives by teaching Creative Courage For Life.

Notable alumni are Emma Watson, Jamie Bell, Eleanor Tomlinson, Tuppence Middleton, Tom Fletcher, Dani Harmer, Josh Cuthbert, Danny Mac and Charlotte Jaconelli.

Locally, Stagecoach classes are available in Chertsey, Hinchley Wood & Esher, Richmond, Staines, Twickenham, Teddington and Weybridge where singing, dancing and acting classes are available for children ages 4 to 18.

Stagecoach offers a two week trial.

More info at www.stagecoach.co.uk

Step ahead with Step on Stage

Step on Stage Academy is a leading, award winning, independent performing arts school based in Twickenham, Hampton Hill and Sunbury.

Founded in 2005 by Emma Louise Tinniswood, the school offers professional training in acting, music, musical theatre and playwriting to children ages 3 to 18, as well as youth theatre, holiday workshops and LAMDA, ABRSM, Trinity Rock School and ISTD exam opportunities.

An independent school, Step on Stage is not tied by set schemes of work and schedules; instead each year, new lesson plans and a wide range of performance opportunities are developed and arranged, catering specifically for the mix of students.

‘Emma's commitment to her students is outstanding. Her energy and enthusiasm are boundless. She helps each student to discover and develop their own talents, to progress at a pace that suits them and offers numerous performance opportunities to develop self-confidence and stage craft.’ LG, Twickenham.

More info at www.steponstageacademy.co.uk

Kickstart autumn with a FREE Perform class

Perform classes use a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s potential. Run by experienced actor-teachers, the classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: confidence, communication, coordination and concentration.

From September, Perform children ages 4 to 7 will take to the skies with Phileas Fogg as they go on an amazing adventure Around the World. Whether walking like a wallaby in the outback or revealing the legends of the Egyptian pyramids, the new term will be filled with globetrotting fun!

Meanwhile, children ages 7 to 12 are going to the ball in a ragsto-riches rock show, Cinderella Rocks. This hilarious version of Cinderella features struggling band, The Ugglies, in their quest to top the charts with charming music mogul, Simon Prince. With all abilities welcome, the children will work towards an end of term performance for family and friends. The only requirement is to get ready for the best fun of the week!

Classes are for all abilities and every child is welcome to try a free class in Brentford, Esher, Hampton, Kew, Kingston, Richmond, St Margarets, Surbiton, Twickenham, Walton and Weybridge.

Book a FREE class 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.

Brentford: St Paul Church of England Primary School

Esher: Church of the Holy Name

Hampton: Linden Hall Community Centre

Kew: Kew Community Centre

Kingston: Alexandra Infants School

Richmond: Vineyard Life Church, The Russell Primary School & Holy Trinity Church Centre

St Margarets: St Margaret’s Catholic Church Hall

Surbiton: Surbiton Hill Methodist Church

Twickenham: The Crossway Centre, Twickenham United Reform Church & The Winchester Room, Turks Head

Walton upon Thames: St Andrews Urc

Weybridge: St James’ Parish Centre

NOWBOOKINGFOR SEPTEMBER!

Enjoy MuddyBoots October half term camps

Ofsted Outstanding MuddyBoots holiday camps run from 23 to 27 October in Cobham and Guildford.

Ideal for children ages 3 to 8 who enjoy variety, camps feature art and craft, water play, gymnastics, baking, forest school, disco party games, talent show and more. No day is alike; each has a different theme.

With a great staff ratio of 1:8, regardless of the age of the children, MuddyBoots also keeps friends and siblings in the same group. Childcare vouchers accepted.

Book at www.muddybootscamps.co.uk

The Little Foxes and Foxes FC half term camps

From 16 to 27 October, The Little Foxes Club and Foxes FC will host their October half term camps for children ages from 18 months to 14 years in Chiswick.

From Football camps to Multi-Sport camps, plus the NEW Move + Create Camps, there’s plenty of options for your child.

Camps are run by professional, qualified coaches, hosted at all-weather pitches and indoor studios and have hourly, half day and full day options.

Information and bookings at www.thelittlefoxesclub.com/ holiday-camp

Get messy with Splat Messy Play

Splat Messy Play provides messy play classes for little ones ages 6 months to 4 years in Teddington, Hampton and surrounds.

Classes are completely child-led and have been designed and inspired by the EYFS curriculum to provide exciting tactile and sensory experiences that encourage children’s curiosity and allow them to explore the world around them. This enhances their learning, language and creativity.

Children learn through experimentation and discovery - messy play is perfect for this as it encourages children to explore new textures and manipulate different materials. Messy play also improves a child’s physical development and what better way to introduce it than at this organised class where somewhere else clears up the mess!

Classes are held in Teddington on Monday mornings and Hampton on Friday afternoons.

Parent Testimonial: ‘Fantastic, creative messy play sessions. My two-year-old loves them!’

More info at www.splatmessyplay.co.uk

Handling headlice

By Andrew Campbell

Headlice are a common problem faced by many parents, so here is what to do when there’s a classroom outbreak.

It helps to first understand the facts:

• Headlice are 2.5mm to 3mm long at adult stage.

• Their eggs are small, white and stick to the head, taking seven to ten days to hatch and then seven to ten days to mature into adults.

• Head lice only survive two to three days away from a human head.

• Contrary to myth, headlice don’t jump or fly, they don’t have a preference for either clean or dirty hair and they spread only from head to head contact, not from pillows or hairbrushes.

Symptoms

These can include itching, small itchy rash-like pink bumps around the edge of the scalp and the feeling of something crawling in the hair. Or there may be no symptoms and you might only find lice by systematically parting and combing the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb from the root of the hair to the tip. You will be able to see any lice, eggs or nits if you wipe the comb on a tissue between strokes. If you find any, it’s advisable to check the whole family’s hair.

Getting rid of head lice

Your local chemist will stock insecticide and non-insecticide treatment shampoos. Check your chosen product is suitable for the age of your child and note that some treatments are not suitable for pregnant women. There is no medical evidence of the effectiveness of Tea Tree Oil.

An alternative to treatment shampoos is wet combing with conditioner in the first instance or using this alongside the treatment shampoo. This can be helpful as some head lice are resistant to insecticides. If the treatment product requires you to treat the hair more than once, wet comb in between treatments to remove any eggs that may have hatched.

Wet combing

To wet comb, wet the hair, apply conditioner and thoroughly comb through all of the hair, in sections. Wash off the conditioner and repeat. In between each stroke, you need to wipe the comb

on a tissue to check for lice. Repeat wet combing every two or three days until no lice have been seen for ten days. The aim is to remove all the lice as they hatch before they have the chance to mature, produce new eggs and reinfest your child.

Repeated checking

However you treat your child’s lice, keep checking their hair regularly after the last of the them have disappeared as there may be more waiting to hatch.

Check for head lice every time you wash your child’s hair, as they are easier to spot lice on wet hair. Double check the nape of the neck and behind the ears where lice sometimes lurk. If you’re finding headlice stubbornly hanging on, speak to your chemist for advice.

Do I need to keep my child at home?

No - as long as you’re actively treating the lice. Inform your child’s school, keep long hair tied back and warn anyone your child mixes with. If your child is old enough, explain to them that it’s a good idea to avoid getting their head too close to that of other people.

paediatric acupuncture is a safe, non-invasive, non-drug, Effective natural ancient therapy it has been practiced in china for a thousand years and it helps boost a child's immune system and support their well-being development

at National Trust

properties near you

Get ready for spooky fun this half term!

From 21 to 31 October at Hatchlands Park (GU4 7RT), there will be a pumpkin hunt in the garden and spooky activities on the parkland trail. Meanwhile, in the house (22 to 30 October), discover the stories of previous residents - perhaps you’ll even catch a glimpse of a friendly ghost!

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlandspark

Steeped in myths and legend, Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl (GU26 6AB) is the perfect setting for Halloween fun and there’s a Halloween trail to enjoy from 21 to 29 October. Pick up a sheet and explore the commons on our spooky half-term trail. Normal admission applies.

https://bit.ly/NThind

From 21 to 29 October, get ready for Enchanted Claremont at Claremont Landscape Garden (KT10 9JG). Join Claremont’s Wandering Witch and her merry band of goblins, pixies and other magickal creatures for an adventure trail

around the garden. Living amongst the trees and shady corners, they often leave behind a clue or two! £2 per trail, includes a prize at the end.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden

Over at Dapdune Wharf (GU1 4RR), you can join a Spooktacular Fun Run on Saturday 28 October, starting at 4.30pm. Dress up and run, walk or jog around the 2k course and encounter spooky surprises around a haunted Wharf and Island. The night run will start at 6.30pm but there will be lots to keep you entertained beforehand with children’s craft activities

and storytelling. The café will also be open. £3 per runner. Booking advised. https://bit.ly/NTwey

From 21 to 29 October, come on an adventure with Willow the Witch at Winkworth Arboretum (GU8 4AD) and help her create a magickal potion to change the colour of the leaves. Follow the fun-filled trail to find the ingredients for the enchanted potion and discover games and challenges along the way. Free with normal admission. Also enjoy Fungi Fun with Sarah Shepley. What kind of slimy, surprising and spectacular fungi will you discover around Winkworth? Join expert fungi spotter Sarah Shepley for this fun walk around the Arboretum. https://bit.ly/NTwwink

Explore the Weird and Wonderful Fungi trail at Runnymede and Ankerwycke this half term. From 21 to 29 October, families can discover more about the over five hundred weird and wonderful fungi species to be found at Runnymede on its free downloadable fungi trail. Download from website at https://bit.ly/NTrunny

Spooktacular half term fun at RHS Garden Wisley

From Saturday 21 to Sunday 29 October, families can enjoy spooktacular half term fun at RHS Garden Wisley. Follow the fangtastic family trail around the garden, looking out for scary sights. Discover creepy crawlies and spooky stories with Halloween fun on offer for all the family.

Autumn is a wonderful time of year at RHS Garden Wisley, with an abundance of vibrant colour on display at every turn. Look for vivid changes throughout the garden on acer, oak and beech trees, which provide spectacular sights as the season progresses. One of the first signs of autumn colour in the garden is the iconic black gum trees on Seven Acres. The 'Wisley Bonfire' is in the middle of the round pond and the impressive 'Wisley King' can be found near the Glasshouse.

No booking required and normal garden admission includes Halloween activities.

More info at www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley/whats-on

Autumn family action at Brooklands Museum

Join Brooklands Museum in Weybridge for its Emergency Services Day on Sunday 17 September! Visitors can discover an impressive display of vehicles used by the emergency services and learn about how emergency service workers help make our world safer. Plus Skye, Chase and Marshall from PAW Patrol will be making special appearances throughout the day.

October half-term will fly you back to the early days of aviation, when Brooklands pioneered aircraft and pilot training, with Air Heads family workshops, activities and tours. Meet costumed characters who embody tales of Brooklands’ aviation pioneers and don’t forget to visit the award-winning Aircraft Factory and have a go at making and designing your own aircraft.

Easily accessible by car or train with free parking, café and plenty of picnic space, great value family tickets start at £33.55. Or enjoy Brooklands Museum for the entire year with family membership starting from just £75.00 for unlimited admission including event days.

Find out more and book at www.brooklandsmuseum.com

rhs.org.uk/wisley

Spooktacular half term fun

Sat 21 – Sun 29 Oct

Follow the fangtastic family trail around the garden this half term and look out for scary sights. Discover creepy crawlies and spooky stories with Halloween fun for all the family. Your visit supports our work as a charity.

RHS Registered Charity No: 222879/SC038262

Is it ever okay to… give parenting advice to another parent?

By Ellie Malt

Where do you stand on giving parenting advice to another parent? Should you try to help or steer clear altogether and give them the space to find their own solutions? If you are minded to have your say, we’ve got some suggestions to reduce the risk of sounding like a know-it-all. Two mums give their, ahem… advice!

We all know at least one baby who slept easily and fed beautifully from week one. If you are lucky in that respect, it is particularly tempting to offer advice but please don’t think you’ve discovered some amazing secret for solving all the problems of another parent.

Jumping in with advice can be the opposite of helpful; it may sound like you think you know the situation better than the parents. In reality, you can’t know all the factors at play.

It’s easy to blame ‘parenting’ when often there are biological issues that lie behind struggles with feeding, sleeping and meltdowns, many of which may not emerge for years. For example, developmental delays, sensory issues, hearing loss, ADHD, autism, eczema, reflux and allergies are just a few of the many (and sometimes invisible) possibilities. And it can take years for parents to figure out causes or find solutions. During that time, it’s typical for parents to feel judged, so while offering advice to an already sleep-deprived parent might make you feel better, it’s more likely to make them feel worse.

Advice, particularly when it hasn’t been asked for, can often land when energy levels are already low, putting the onus on the parent to have to justify why what has worked for you just doesn’t work for their child.

Anna, mum of two boys, from Devon

How to pick the right moment?

Timing is key: no matter how good the advice, it’s a bad idea to suggest anything after a particularly difficult night or right in the middle of any meltdown.

It’s important to see how the advice is being received, so avoid sending an email/text/WhatsApp or posting on social.

If in doubt, hold back. If someone shares a problem, chances are a non-judgmental listening ear and sympathy are actually more helpful than advice, however well-meant.

Getting advice at the right time and from the right people can be helpful. For example, when meeting up with other new mums to feed your baby and enjoy a coffee together, it seems natural to talk about what you’re going through and to compare experiences.

When you are all just figuring it out together, it feels less judgemental; more of a safe space in which to swap stories about small wins and epic fails. Just occasionally a golden nugget of advice will drop into your lap.

On the flipside, lots of parenting advice either won’t work for your particular situation or your child or it may be out of date. Granted, it can be irritating when advice is worded as if it’s a universal law applicable to everyone, therefore implying you are a ‘bad parent’ for not doing whatever it is. That said, it would be a shame to miss out on something useful just because of another person’s misplaced sense of conviction or poor timing.

I try to see advice as a potential tool rather than a rule and remind myself it’s in my power to be curious, to test and then reject or accept it. Even when the advice doesn’t work, ruling it out is one step closer to success. In this way I can see parenting as a process of constant refinements rather than a reflection on some kind of innate ability.

Sarah, mum of three, from Oxfordshire

What to share instead of advice?

Your own problems: in moderation. This helps the other parent feel less alone.

Things you are considering trying yourself but haven’t yet! So there’s no suggestion that you have the absolute answer. Useful gadgets/objects: keeps the focus on physical solutions rather than criticising actions.

Share your sources: mentioning helpful podcasts, books etc instead of offering specific advice (but only send a link if the person asks you to).

‘Jumping in with advice can be the opposite of helpful.’

‘Just occasionally a golden nugget will drop into your lap.’

Halloween costume ideas

By Tamsin Ryan

Kids love an excuse to dress up and Halloween provides the perfect opportunity. However, forking out to buy a brand-new costume, which is likely to only be suitable for just one night of the year, can seem wasteful, both in terms of the cost and the impact on the planet. If you have young children, all the black costumes and skeletons can sometimes be a bit scary too, so something a bit more colourful may be in order. So, why not try something a little different this year?

If your kids are anything like my daughter, then they will probably have already managed to amass a selection of costumes at home, which means you have a great starting point. With a little creativity, many of them can be upcycled or modified to create the perfect Halloween outfit, without having to break the bank. The skills and equipment required are very limited, so most people should have what they need at home.

Spooky scientist

This costume started life as a doctor’s lab coat! I then found some test tubes, which we had from planting seeds on a previous visit to an RHS garden and filled them with water and food colouring. I also re-purposed one of my husband’s old lanyards from a conference he went to and used it to create a name badge. I’m sure many of you will also have a small pair of Harry Potter style glasses you could add for the final touch. Then finish it off with some spiky green hair! This costume was very simple to put together and only an ipad/ laptop and printer were necessary for the name badge.

Day of the Dead

This began with a pink princess dress and a Frozen cape, which I covered in faux flowers I had stashed at home and some little wooden skulls that I had bought a few years ago from Hobbycraft for Halloween. I then found a headband covered in flowers (from the days when I used to go to fancy dress parties) and added some little skull beads to it that I found on Amazon. The only equipment required for this transformation was a glue gun.

Freaky fairy

What was once a Tinkerbell fairy dress, became a fairy outfit with a difference. I covered the wings in cobwebs from last year’s Halloween decorations and covered the wings and the fairy dress in green (glow in the dark) spiders. I also made a matching wand, using a stick from the garden and some leftover ribbons, felt and jewels. You could always make the wand more sinister, depending on the age of your child and how spooky they want to go. Again, I used the glue gun for this creation, along with a knife for cutting out the star for the wand.

Hopefully this has given you a few ideas to get started with your Halloween transformations.

Tamsin Ryan offers more costume tips and ideas for Halloween games on her kids’ party ideas site at www.icecreamandjelly.com

Local playgroup guide

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

ELMBRIDGE BOROUGH

CHERTSEY

Christ Church Toddler Group

KT16 0PB

Christ Church Ottershaw

For babies and toddlers, Mon 10-11.30. www.ottershawchurch.com

Fledglings KT16 0JT

Ottershaw Christ Church CE Primary School Hall

For babies and under 4s, Fri 9-10.30. www.ottershawcofeschools.surrey. sch.uk

Kingdom Tots KT15 3NW

Heathervale Baptist Church

For pre-schoolers (includes bible based stories), Fri 10-11.30. Pre-book. www.heathervale.org.uk

Little Lights KT16 9AS

Beacon Church

For newborns to 4s, Mon 9.30-10.35 & 11-12.10.

www.beaconchurch.net

CLAYGATE

Bumps & Babies and Trinity Tots

KT10 0JP

Holy Trinity Church

New mums and mums-to-be, Mon 10-12; preschoolers, Thu 10-11.30. www.htclaygate.org

COBHAM

Little Fishes KT11 3EJ

St Andrew’s Church

For 0-3s, Wed 10.30-12. www.sac.church/lifegroups

ESHER

Tiny Saints & Fun Saints KT10 8JL

All Saints Church

Bumps & babies café, Fri 11-12.30. Under 5s, Mon 10-12. www.allsaintsweston.com

HERSHAM

Thursdsay Tots

St Peter’s Church Hersham

For under 5s (includes bible stories), last Fri of month, 9.45-11.45.

MOLESEY

Allsorts & Jellybabies KT8 2LG

St Peter’s Church West Molesey

Up to school age, Wed 9.30-11. Prewalking babies, Thu 10-11. www.spwm.org.uk

Tiny Crafters KT8 9LU

Methodist Church East Molesey

For pre-schoolers with craft activities, Thu 9.30-11.15. www.emmc.org.uk

WALTON

Kings Church Toddlers KT12 3JQ

For pre-schoolers, Wed 9.30-10.30. www.kingschurchwalton.co.uk

WEYBRIDGE

SMART KT13 9TS

St Mary’s Oatlands

For babies and toddlers, Tue 10-11.30. www.oatlandschurch.org.uk

KINGSTON BOROUGH

CHESSINGTON

Stay & Play KT9 1JE

Chessington Children’s Centre

For 0-1s, Mon 10-11.30, for 0-5s, Wed 9.30-11.15am.

www.bit.ly/KingstonCentres

KINGSTON

Canbury Buttons KT2 5AW

Canbury Pavilion

Babies and preschoolers, Tue & Thu 10-11.30.

www.bit.ly/CanburyGardens

Jolly Toddlers KT1 1HZ

United Reform Church Mayo

Centre

Babies and preschoolers, Mon 10-12.

Kingsgate Adult & Toddler Group

KT1 1QT

Kingsgate Church

Children 0-4, soft & messy play, crafts, toys, Tue 9.30-11.30.

Kingsnympton Stay & Play

KT2 7RW

Kingsnympton Centre

For under 5s, Mon 10-11.30am. www.kingstonmethodist.church

Kingston Town Stay & Play KT1 3AR

Kingston Town Children’s Centre

For 0-5s, Fri 9.30-11.

Kingston Welcare Stay & Play

KT2 6LQ

Kingston Welcare

For babies or toddlers, Wed 9.30-11.

www.kingstonwelcare.org.uk/stayand-play

Monday Tots KT2 6LF

Corner Stone Church

For babies & preschoolers, Mon 9.30-10.30 & 11-12.

www.cornerstonechurchkingston. org

Playbox Stay & Play, KT1 2UJ

Kingston Methodist Church

For under 5s (including babies), Mon 9.30-11.30

www.kingstonmethodist.church

Rainbows KT2 7SF

St Paul’s Church

For 0-5s, Wed 10-11.30am. www.stpaulskingston.org.uk/ rainbows

NEW MALDEN

Stay & Play KT3 5NB

Old Malden Children’s Centre

For 0-18mths, Wed 10.30-11.45am.

For 0-5s, Tue 10-11.45am. www.bit.ly/KingstonCentres

SURBITON

Little Acorns KT5 8JJ

Christ Church

For 0-5s including bumps, Fri 9.15-10.45.

www.ccsurbiton.org/cctots

Oasis Stay & Play KT6 6AF

Surbiton Hill Methodist Church

For under 5s, Tue 10-11.30.

www.surbitonhillmethodist.co.uk

Sunbeams KT6 4LS

St Andrew’s & Mark’s Church

For 0-5s, Wed 10-11.15. www.surbitonchurch.org.uk

Tots & Carers KT6 6LN

Surbiton New Life Baptist Church

For 0-5s, Thu 9.30-11.30.

TOLWORTH

Kangaroo Club KT5 9HU

Emmanuel Church

For 0 to under 5s, Tue 10-11.30. www.emmanueltolworth.org.uk

Playtime KT5 9JR

Tolworth United Reform Church

From birth to 3, Wed 10-11.30.

Wiggles KT6 7PT

St George’s Church

For under 5s, Fri 9.30-11.30. www.stgeorgestolworth.org.uk

RICHMOND BOROUGH

BARNES

LIttle Castles Stay and Play SW13 9AQ

Castelnau Community Centre, For 0-5s, Mon, Wed & Fri 9.30-12. www.castelnaucentreproject.co.uk

EAST TWICKENHAM

Little Acorns TW1 2PD

St Stephens Church

For pre-schoolers (includes bible stories), Thu 10-12. www.st-stephens.org.uk/ kidsandfamilies

Refresh Café, TW1 2PD

St Stephens Church

For pre-schoolers, Wed 10-12. www.st-stephens.org.uk/ kidsandfamilies

Marble Hill One O'clock Club, TW1 2NL

Marble Hill Play Centre

For under 5s, outdoor play space. www.marblehillplaycentres.com

HAM & PETERSHAM

Little Squirrels Forest School, TW10 7RX

Thames Young Mariners

For 18 months to 4, seven weeks of 2 hour sessions, Mon-Fri.

www.bit.ly/TW10Forest

Stay and Play, TW10 7BG

Ham Children’s Centre

For 0-5s in children’s centre, Thu 9.30-10.45 & 11.15-12.30.

www.bit.ly/RichmondCentres

HAMPTON

Little Larks TW12 2JG

Linden Hall Community Centre

For 0 to 5s includes singing and dressing up, Mon & Wed 9.30-11.30. www.lindenhall.org.uk

Scribblers, TW12 2JT

For babies and preschoolers, Tue 9.30-11.30.

www.scribblersuk.wordpress.com

Stay and Play, TW12 3XB

Tangley Park Children’s Centre

For 0-5s in children’s centre, Fri 9.3010.45 & 11.15-12.30.

www.bit.ly/RichmondCentres

HAMPTON HILL

Place to Play, TW12 1NB

For pre-schoolers, Tue 9-12. www.hamptonhillurc.org.uk/placeto-play

Stay and Play, TW12 1QU

Norman Jackson Children’s Centre

For 0-5s in children’s centre, Mon 9.30-10.45.

www.bit.ly/RichmondCentres

St Jame’s Ark Playgroup, TW12 1DQ

St James Church

For under 5s, Christian based playgroup, Mon 10-12. www.stjames-hamptonhill.org.uk/ children/the-ark

KEW

Barn Church Parent & Toddler

Group, TW9 4HF

Barn Church

For pre-schoolers, Mon, Wed & Fri 9.15-11.

www.barnchurchkew.uk/parentstoddler-group

Little Learners, TW9 2HP

Windham Nursery School

For 0-4s, Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri 9.15-11. www.windham.richmond.sch.uk

RICHMOND

Little Laughs TW9 1DH

Duke Street Church

For 0-4s, Wed 10.15. www.dukestreetchurch.com/littlelaughs

Scallywags Toddler Club TW10 6LS

St Matthias Church

Supervised play for small groups of 1-3s without parents. www.scallywagstoddlersclub.co.uk

ST MARGARETS

Jelly Beans, TW1 1PB

All Souls Church

Parent toddler group for 0-5s, Tue 10-11.30. www.allsoulschurch.org.uk

St Margarets Parent & Toddler Group, TW1 1RL

St Margaret Church

Parent and toddler group, Thu 10.30-12. www.stmargaretsrcchurch.co.uk

TEDDINGTON

Busy Bees & Open Door, TW11 8PF

Baptist Church

Open Door is for under 2½'s, Busy Bees for 2½ to school age, Tue 10-11.30.

www.teddingtonbaptist.org.uk

Church Mice, TW11 9HF

St Mary with St Alban Church

Babies to pre-schoolers, includes music, singing bible stories, prayers, Wed 10.30, closed in August.

www.bit.ly/ChurchMiceTW11

Stay and Play, TW11 8UH

Sunflower Centre

For 0-5s, Tue 9.30-11.

www.bit.ly/RichmondCentres

Teddington Tots, TW11 8TP

Methodist Church

Parent/care toddler group for 0-4s, Tue & Wed 9.30-11.30.

www.bit.ly/TeddingtonTots

TWICKENHAM

Monday Mini Play, TW2 5QA

United Reformed Church

Parent-toddler group for 0-4s, Mon 10-12.

www.bit.ly/MondayMiniPlay

Toddler Song, TW2 6QW

Salvation Army Centre

Song and play group parent toddler group, Tue & Thu 10-11.30.

Trinity Toddlers, TW2 5TS

Holy Trinity Church

Parent toddler group, Mon 10-11.30.

WHITTON

Fireflies TW2 7DY

Whitton Church

Parent toddler group, Mon & Fri 9.30-11.30.

www.whittonchurch.com/toddlers

Stay and Play, TW2 6EX

Heathfield Children’s Centre For 0-5s, Tue 9.30-10.45 & 11.15-12.30. www.bit.ly/RichmondCentres

SPELTHORNE BOROUGH

ASHFORD

Toddlers Together TW15 2QA Ashford Congregational Church For under 4s, Wed 10-11. www.aboutacc.com

SHEPPERTON

Jubilee’s TW17 9EE

The Jubilee Centre

For pre-schoolers, Mon 9.30-11.30. www.jubileechurchshepperton.org

NCT Bumps & Babes, TW16 6QQ Shepperton Village Hall

For babies and parents to be, Fri 1.15-2.45.

https://bit.ly/NCTGroups

Tiddlers TW17 8SE

St Andrew’s Baptist Church Upper Halliford

For babies to pre-school, Tue 10-11.15. www.sabc.org.uk

STAINES

All Saint’s Parent and Toddlers

TW18 1RZ

All Saints Laleham

For pre-schoolers, Fri 1.30-3. www.allsaintslaleham.org.uk

Little Roots TW18 2BT

Staines Preparatory School

For toddlers ages 2+, Fri 9-10. www.stainesprep.co.uk

Minnows TW18 4SD

Staines Methodist Church

For pre-schoolers, Fri 10-11.30. www.stainesmethodist.org.uk

NCT Bumps & Babes TW18 1AY

Staines Congretations Hall

For babies and parents to be, Fri 1.15-2.45.

https://bit.ly/NCTGroups

Spa Carer & Toddler Group

TW18 4YF

St Mary’s Church Hall

For pre-schoolers, Wed 10-12. www.stmaryandstpeterstaines. co.uk

Toddler Tuesdays TW18 1DP

Christ Church Staines

For pre-schoolers, Tue 9.45-11.45. www.christchurchstaines.co.uk

SUNBURY

SMC Playgroup TW16 5AD

Sunbury Methodist Church

For under 5s, Fri 9.30-11.30. www.e-voice.org.uk/sunburymethodist-church

RICHMOND BOROUGH

SPELTHORNE BOROUGH

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 Mon from 16 Sep & from 20 Oct

Animation for Beginners at Landmark Arts Centre

A six week course to learn the fundamentals of animation. Ages 10+. Pre-book. www.landmarkartscentre.org

Every Tue & Thu from 5 Sep to 13 Oct

Parent & Child Forest School

Perfect way to have family fun in the great outdoors. Ages 2+ Pre-book. www.painshill.co.uk

Every Thu

Storytime at The Alligator’s Mouth, Richmond

Drop-in session with new picture books and traditional rhymes performed by staff. Ages 0-4. www.thealligatorsmouth.co.uk

Every Sat & Sun from 16 Sep

Steam Train Rides at Hampton Kempton Waterworks Railway

Train rides every half hour and picnic area open (not every Sat). Pre-book. www.hamptonkemptonrailway. org.uk

Wed 6 Sep to Wed 13 Sep

Chiswick Children’s Book Festival for Children

In person talks by authors, performances and interactive classes. www.chiswickbookfestival.net

Sat-Sun 9 & 10 Sep

Dinosaur Weekend at Hampton Kempton Waterworks Railway

Ride the dinosaur train and see scary raptors on route. Pre-book. www.hamptonkemptonrailway. org.uk

Heritage Open Days at Winkworth Arboretum

Enjoy free admission as part of Heritage Open Days. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ winkworth-arboretum

Heritage Open Days at Polesden

Lacey

Enjoy free entry to Polesden Lacey as part of Heritage Open Day, with lots activities including meet the ranger and pop-up theatre. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ polesden-lacey

Sat 9 Sep to Sun 29 Oct

Little People BIG DREAMS® at Polesden Lacey

Little People, BIG DREAMS® exhibition and trail at Polesden Lacey encourages kids to be bold, be brave and dream big. This autumn, a new exhibition and trail celebrates some of the world’s most outstanding people, using artworks from the bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS® picture-book series. The fascinating exhibition and outdoor trail invites you into the stories of little artists, activists, sports stars and scientists from all over the world providing an unforgettable day at Polesden Lacey

NUTCRACK ER

for the whole family. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ polesden-lacey

Sun 10 Sep

Heritage Open Day at Hatchlands Park

Enjoy free admission as part of Heritage Open Days. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hatchlands-park

Mon 11 Sep & Sun 9 Oct

Little Explorers at Kew Gardens

Fun hands-on 90 minute learning sessions. Ages 2-5. www.kew.org

Mon 11 Sep to Mon 1 Jan

Drawn to Water at London Wetland Centre

Explore wetland nature through a range of art activities for all ages, inspired by Quentin Blake's drawings. www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ london

Fri 15 Sep & 20 Oct Museum

Monkeys at Chertsey Museum

Join Charlie the Chimp for singing, stories and crafts. Ages: under 5s. www.chertseymuseum.org

Sat 16 Sep

The River Wey Festival at Dapdune Wharf

Enjoy chidren’s activities on Adventure Island, browse the craft stalls, enjoy a variety of street food, take a boat trip and stay until dusk to see the fantastic, illuminated pageant of boats. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/riverwey

Walton Heritage Festival 2023 Street fair (Bridge Street), fun fair, live music, dog show and more. www.wotta.co.uk/heritage-day

Sat 16 Sep & Sat 21 Oct

Young Archaeologist’s Club at Chertsey Museum

Learn and get hands on with the past. Ages 8-16. www.chertseymuseum.org

Sat 16, 30 Sep & Sat 14 Oct Saturday Art Club at Riverhouse Barn, Walton Free art workshops for children. Ages 6-9. www.riverhousebarn.co.uk

Sat-Sun 16 & 17 Sep & Sat-Sun 21 & 22 Oct

Steaming Weekend at Kempton Steam Museum

Watch these unique and enormous ancient steam engines in action. www.kemptonsteam.org

Sun 17 Sep

Emergency Services Day at Brooklands Museum

The perfect chance to say thank you to some of the heroes of our country and get up close to a range of traditional and modernday fire engines, police cars and ambulances. Don’t miss the PAW Patrol pups Chase, Marshall and Skye who will be making special appearances throughout the day. www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Fri 22 Sep

Sensory storytelling at the National Archives Kew Dani the Storyteller will use music, play and toys for a fantastic adventure: Ages: under 3. www.nationalarchives.gov.uk

Sun 24 Sep & Sun 22 Oct

Let’s Get Creative at Orleans House Gallery Free creative art activities for families. Ages 4-11. www.orleanshousegallery.org

Thames Ditton Miniature Steam Railway Open Day

Take a ride on one of the miniature railways.

www.malden-dsme.org

Passenger Day at Staines Society of Model Engineers

Take a ride on the miniature railway. www.stainessocietyofmodel engineers.co.uk

Wed 27 Sep, 11 & 25 Oct

Family Heritage Morning at Marble Hill

Explore Marble Hill’s history through play and exploration with hands-on activities.

www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/marble-hill

Sat 30 Sep & Sun 1 Oct

Autumn Celebration Weekend at Claremont Landscape Garden

Free autumn Bingo trail, farm petting zoo, music, pumpkins, photo ops and seasonal tours. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden Sun 1 Oct

Brooklands German Day at Brooklands Museum

A day devoted to all things German as Brooklands welcomes a host of German cars and motorbikes such as the Porsche, VW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz. The Paddock will be alive with entertainment, food outlets, and memorabilia to celebrate Oktoberfest. All ages. www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Out of this World at the National Archives Kew Crawl into the darkened dome and discover the worlds that glitter in our night sky. www.nationalarchives.gov.uk

Sat 14 Oct

Mum2mum Nearly New Sale at Teddington

Buy quality second hand baby and children’s stuff at pop up market. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

Fri 7 Oct

15 Minutes of Fun at Chertsey Museum

Free drop-in craft session for all the family. www.chertseymuseum.org

Sun 8 Oct

Brooklands Autumn Motorsport Day at Brooklands Museum

Competition cars from all ages will be put through their paces on the adjacent Mercedes-Benz World circuit and Brooklands Test Hill. Come see a wide variety of competition cars from GTs to Touring cars and Group B rally cars. Spectators will have the rare opportunity to witness competition cars up close. All ages.

www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Wed 11 Oct

Music & Movement at Kew Gardens

Fun and interactive session of music-making. Ages: 3 mths to 2 years. www.kew.org

Sat 14 Oct to Sun 29 Oct

Enchanted Claremont at Claremont Landscape Gardens

Join Claremont’s Wandering Witch and her merry band of goblins, pixies and other magickal creatures for an adventure trail around the garden. Living amongst the trees and shady corners, they often leave a clue or two! Follow the trail and see what you discover. £2 per trail, includes a prize at the end.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden

THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TRADITION FOR ALL THE FAMILY

Children go half-price!*

*When booking through the London Coliseum Box Office. T&Cs apply.

THE SUNDAY EXPRESS

Photo © Jason Bell

Fri 20 Oct

Bach to Baby Half Term Concert in Twickenham

Join in specially designed classical music programme for the whole family to enjoy.

www.bachtobaby.com

Sat 21 Oct to Sun 29 Oct

Spooktacular Half Term Fun at RHS Wisley

Families can follow the fangtastic family trail around the garden, looking out for scary sights. Discover creepy crawlies and spooky stories with Halloween fun for all. No booking required and normal garden admission applies. www.rhs.org.uk/wisley

Autumn Magick at Winkworth Arboretum

This half term, come on an adventure with Willow the Witch at Winkworth and help her create a magickal potion to change the colour of the leaves. Follow the fun-filled trail to find the ingredients for the enchanted potion and discover games and challenges along the way. Normal admission. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ winkworth-arboretum

eek! Week at London Wetland Centre

Fun family interactive activities including pond dipping, natural potions and mud kitchen. www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ london

Halloween at Hampton Court Palace

Lose yourself in atmospheric projections and creepy sound effects as the palace is transformed by magical spells. www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-courtpalace

Sat 21 Oct to Mon 30 Oct

Halloween Half Term at Hatchlands Park

Pumpkin hunt for little ones and spooky activities on the parkland trail. Normal admission. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hatchlands-park

Halloween Half Term Fun at Hever Castle

A family friendly spooky trail with different zones including witches and skeletons. Also workshops. www.hevercastle.co.uk

We’re Going on Bear Hunt at Kew Gardens

An adventure for all the family! Explore different landscapes and make muddy memories. www.kew.org

Half Term Mini Monster at London Museum of Water & Steam

Discover the monster bacteria that lurked in London’s water supply in the past with science show, music, crafts and more.

www.waterandsteam.org.uk

Sun 22 Oct

Transportfest at Brooklands Museum

This event features extensive bus displays, including rarely seen early examples, as well as other commercial transport such as taxis, military and emergency vehicles. Heritage bus trips, a collectors’ market, live music and children’s attractions. All the Brooklands Museum attractions and exhibits will be open. All ages. www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Mon 23 Oct

Aesops Theatre Half-Term Workshop at Riverhouse Barn

An exciting, informative and amusing show-and-workshop on Egyptology for children. Ages 6-12. www.riverhousebarn.co.uk

Mon 23 Oct to Fri 27 Oct

Hubert the Hedgehog's Autumn Adventure at Dapdune Wharf

Take a trail round the island and discover how Hubert and his friends prepare for winter. Plus free craft activities.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/riverwey

Tue 24 Oct to Fri 27 Oct

Ghosts of Richmond Palace at Museum of Richmond

Join a ghost walk around the Palace’s remains, then back to the Museum to create your own haunted Palace.

www.artsrichmond.org.uk

Sat 28 Oct

Spooktacular Fun Run at Dapdune Wharf

Dress up and run, walk or jog around our 2k course and encounter spooky surprises around the haunted Wharf and Island. Starts 6.30pm but entertainment beforehand with children’s craft activities and storytelling. Café. £3 per runner. Booking advised.

https://bit.ly/NTwey

October half-term fun

21-29 Oct, 10am-4pm

Find autumn adventures and spooky Halloween fun at a National Trust property near you!

Sat-Sun 28 & 29 Oct

Vampire Scream Up at Hampton Kempton Waterworks Railway

See Dracula’s funeral procession, as he sits in coffin pulled by a scary horse with miserable mourners behind. Pre-book.

www.hamptonkemptonrailway. org.uk

CHILDREN'S THEATRE

DORKING HALLS

www.dorkinghalls.co.uk

Dinosaur Adventure Live Mon 23

Oct

An unforgettable Jurassic experience for all the family.

Comedy Club 4 Kids Tue 24 Oct

The comedy club that is suitable for all. Ages 6+.

Splash Test Dummies Sat 28 & Sun

29 Oct

Brilliant array of stunt work, acrobatics, juggling and sidesplitting, slapstick comedy.

ESHER THEATRE

www.eshertheatre.com

Once Upon a Pumpkin Mon 23 & Tue 24 Oct

A spooktacular new production for Halloween and half term.

THE EXCHANGE, TWICKENHAM

www.exchangetwickenham.co.uk

Teach Rex Sun 22 Oct

Life-like dinosaurs are used to teach about the life and anatomy of the Velociraptor.

The Bubbles Show Thu 26 Oct

Fun and interactive, a unique blend of magic, storytelling and bubble art. The Princess & the Pea Fri 27 Oct This interactive storytelling show is full of singing, dancing, counting, phonics and madcap fun.

Comedy Club 4 Kids Sun 29 Oct

The comedy club that is suitable for all humans. Ages 6+

Morgan & West’s Massive Magic Show for Kids Sat 4 Nov Relentlessly funny and bursting with magic. Ages 5-105.

POLKA THEATRE, WIMBLEDON

www.polkatheatre.com

Nest Wed 11 Oct-Sun 15 Oct

Highly physical show uses minimal language to tell a tale about taking care. Ages 3-7.

Under the Little Red Moon Wed

18-Sun 22 Oct

Oh No, George Thu 19 Oct-Sun

29 Oct

New show uses acrobatics, slapstick

comedy, and live music to bring George’s escapades to life. Ages 3+.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream Wed 25 Oct-Sun 29 Oct

A sideways take on Shakespeare’s classic play. Ages 6+.

The Star Seekers Wed 1 Nov-Sun 5 Nov

Interactive show explores the galaxies, stars and planets through songs, silliness and anti-gravity antics. Ages 3-8.

THE ROSE THEATRE, KINGSTON

www.rosetheatre.org

The Gruffalo’s Child, Tue 24-Sun 29 Oct

Enchanting adaptation of the muchloved picture book.

WATERMANS THEATRE, BRENTFORD

www.watermans.org.uk

Comedy Club 4 Kids Sun 24 Sep 3pm

The comedy club that is suitable for all. Ages 6+.

SNÖ (Snow) Wed 25-Fri 27

October 1.30pm & 3.30pm

Through dance and puppetry, the Sami mountain world is brought to life in a poetic performance about animals and nature, inspired by the landscape in the very north of Sweden.

Skydiver – Dance Umbrella Sun 29 Oct 1pm & 3pm

Skydiver is a magical dance theatre show. Prepare to soar through the fluffy clouds where flocks of birds and butterflies flutter. Ages 3-5.

BOOK AHEAD

LONDON COLISEUM

www.ballet.org.uk/nutcracker

Nutcracker Thu 14 Dec-Sun 7 Jan

English National Ballet returns to the London Coliseum with an all-time family favourite. More than one hundred dancers and musicians bring the festive classic to life with exquisite dancing, beautiful sets and Tchaikovsky’s popular score played live. Join Clara and her valiant Nutcracker on a hot air balloon ride across London, visiting the glistening Land of Snow and a beautiful puppet theatre that comes to life with dancers from around the world. Thousands of audience members make the beloved ballet a part of their celebrations every year. Plan your visit and experience its charms!

Join the Wandering Witch and her merry band of magical folk as they prepare for their All Hallows’ Eve party! 14-29 Oct, 10am-3pm.

Dapdune

Mon-Fri, 11am-5pm. Follow Hubert the hedgehog’s trail and discover more about his hibernating friends. With free crafts.

Visit the haunted house and spooky parkland trail and see how many pumpkins you can spot hiding in the garden.

Steeped in myths and legends, follow the spooky trail around the Devil’s Punch Bowl.

Little People, BIG DREAMS® 9 Sep–29 Oct Exhibition and trail encouraging all children to be bold, be brave and dream big.

Follow the trail to help Willow the Witch find the special ingredients to create her magical potion.

nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey