We're coming up to a very exciting – but very busy – time of year. Ease the strain with our tips for a Perfectly Imperfect Christmas, p11.
Theatres are pulling out all the stops with sparkling festive shows. Check out our What's On for Pantos and Santa but book quickly. Places were going fast as we went to press. Top tip: there are often various ways to get tickets. A theatre production website may take you to a vendor, but the venue box office may have different tickets available. It's always worth a call. There are more offers & recipes in the interactive digital version of our magazine. Sign up at familiesmag.co.uk/go to receive every
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Editor: Amanda Greenley
T: 07359 133954
E: editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk
Families North London is part of Families print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The content of Famileis North London are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photogrpahic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent from Families North London. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families North London, our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing can not be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
Free sound and meditation workshops are on offer to children aged 8 to 16 who live or go to school in the borough of Barnet.
The workshops include a one-hour guided stretching, sound and meditation session and run through 2022 and 2023 in East Finchley.
“Sound healing aims to rebalance the entire body and bring about a sense of deep calm,” explained Natasha, of Glass house Events, “while meditation empowers children to manage their mental health and provides them with coping mechanisms for obstacles and issues they may encounter.”
Glasshouse Events has teamed up with Barnet Council to run the workshops to increase calmness, confidence and self-esteem, memory and concentration, and to encour
All children love to receive a letter addressed to them in the post. And what could be more special than a letter from Santa? Here are two ways of making this happen.
NSPCC Santa Letter
Children can receive a letter from Santa via his elves at the NSPCC in exchange for a do nation to the charity. Order online. Last overseas date Dec 4. Last UK date Dec 18. https://letterfromsanta.nspcc.org.uk
To receive a FREE letter from Santa children must post their letter to Santa in an envelope with either a first or second class stamp, to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Rein deerland, XM4 5HQ. It must include your child’s full name and address. Check the deadline at www.royalmail.com/ christmas/letters-to-santa
An easy and quick guide for women on healthy eating and vitamin supplements in pregnancy has been pub lished by the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) and the Royal College of Obstetri cians and Gynaecologists (RCOG).
The guide explains the bene fits of healthy eating for wom en and their babies. It also addresses the myths around what you should and shouldn’t eat when pregnant, with clear information explaining what a healthy diet in pregnancy looks like.
View and download bit.ly/FoodGuidePregnancy
age and teach children to meditate so they can feel less stressed before exams and while completing schoolwork. Children will leave with tips and techniques to maintain their sense of calm and inner peace.
Sessions are split into 8 to 11 years (book at https:// barnetyouth.uk/session/SoundMeditation- Workshops-/139920) and 12+ (book at https:// barnetyouth.uk/session/SoundMeditation-Workshops-/139933)
Questions? See booking form or email glasshouseventsldn@hotmail.com
A team of Australian researchers has identified a bio chemical marker in the blood that could help identify newborn babies at risk of sudden infant death syn drome (SIDS). This could create an avenue to future interventions to prevent future tragedies.
The researchers found that babies who died of SIDS had lower levels of the enzyme butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) shortly after birth which plays a major role in helping babies to wake up during the night if their breathing is interrupted.
This is the first evidence "that babies who succumb to SIDS are different from birth," reports study leader Carmel Harrington, of the Children’s Hospital at West mead, in Sydney.
The enzyme abnormality is "a measurable, specific vulnerability" to SIDS that had not been previously recognised, the study reported. Further research is needed to determine whether routine measurement of BChE could help prevent future SIDS deaths.
More info: bit.ly/SIDSresearch
Parents have been hit by price rises of up to 60 per cent on some baby products in recent months, new research suggests.
Retail data analysts Assosia found over 90 products, including market-leading nappy brand Pampers have increased in price. Its 24-pack of Baby-Dry Night Nap py Pants rose 60 per cent in three months in Asda. In Morrisons, a 12-multipack of New Baby Sensitive Baby Wipes rose from £11 to £15. There were sim ilar stories at Tesco and Sainsbury's while compa rable products, like some own-brand nappies and wipes, have either risen less steeply or not at all.
The Government has announced a renewed focus on maximising children’s time in the classroom, as evidence shows that students with highest attendance throughout their time in school gain the best GCSE and A level results. It is trialling a mentoring scheme in Middlesbrough to tackle the factors behind nonattendance such as bullying or mental health, before expanding to other areas of the country.
Grab that computer you’re
replacing and dig your old tablet out of the drawer.
2econd Chance in Hendon is using them to train vulnerable people in IT skills, including how to refurbish them. Data is wiped and certification given. The devices are then either sold through 2econd Chance’s website at an affordable price or given to people in the community who have a need.
In a year, 2econd Chance has gone from having one trainee to having more than 25 vulnerable people learning new skills from a team of experts.
“We offer purpose to people who really need it,” said Char lotte Solomon, of 2econd Chance, “and the computers given back to the community help to bridge the digital divide.” Desktops, laptops and tablets, up to eight years old and working, can be left at any Barnet Library, at 2econd Chance, Enterprise House, 2 The Crest, NW4 2HN, or 2econd Chance offers free bulk collection from schools and businesses.
2econd Chance also needs occasional volunteer van drivers. www.2econdchance.co.uk ✉info@2econdchance.co.uk
Thousands of families and children are missing out on money earmarked for childcare support. HMRC esti mates that less than half of eligible families are opening Tax-Free Childcare Online Accounts. And of accounts that are open, less than half are being used. For every £8 paid in, families automatically receive an addition al £2 in government top-up, up to £500 every three months, or £1,000 if their child is disabled. The account is used to pay the childcare provider. Register or learn more, search Tax-Free Childcare on www.gov.uk
LEMON JELLY MILL HILL
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East Barnet School, EN4 8PU from 4pm on Wednesdays
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www lemonjellyarts com/freetaster
A state-of-the-art 3G Pitch has officially been opened by professional footballers from Tottenham Hotspur and Leyton Orient.
The new £250,000 3G Pitch was developed over six months and is a fullsize adult pitch which splits into a variety of smaller pitches to suit the needs of school and clubs, and works for different age groups.
Inspired by the heroics of England Women's National Team over the summer, a group of Broomfield girls were coached on the new pitch by player Jessica Naz from Spurs.
Jess, who was named Spurs Women’s Young Player of the Year last season, later spoke to the girls about her journey to Spurs Women's First Team, the importance of teamwork and commitment and her hopes that more local girls will aspire to follow in the footsteps of England’s Lionesses.
Craig Clay, Adam Thomson and David Agyemang from Leyton Orient FC later
inspired the GCSE PE students with a special visit to school which included the official ribbon-cutting, followed by a Q&A session.
The new pitch is being used for PE les sons, lunch playtimes and afterschool clubs. New links with community partners have also been established. This half term,
matches on a proper pitch.
Adele Christofi, Broomfield School Head teacher, said “I am delighted that the 3G pitch is now open to Broomfield students and our local community. It is wonderful to have developed this amazing facility to improve grassroots sport provision in the area”.
Ally Tansley, Head of PE and Associate Assistant Headteacher, said “Good quality facilities have the potential to transform PE and sport experiences for children. The new pitch has enabled so many more chil dren to play football at a variety of levels. The feedback has been very positive from coaches, players and parents.”
“Jess is my hero! She has inspired me that it is possible to take your hobby and passion and turn playing football into a career” – Year 9 female student.
Broomfield has hosted the Enfield District Trials for U13 boys, U15 boys and U13 girls.
The school has hosted Primary Football Night, in partnership with Active Enfield where Year 5 and 6 boys and girls get the opportunity to play their primary league
"Meeting the Leyton
inspiring. Adam and Craig's advice for being resilient through challenges, not just on the pitch but in my GCSEs made me really reflect on my approach to my studies" – Year 11 GCSE PE student.
Leyton Orient players today
inspiring.
reflect
By Gabrielle Nash
If your child turns four this academic year, they’ll be starting Reception next September and now’s the time to make their primary school application. Exciting times!
Your child’s primary school and its community becomes a large part of your family’s life, so feeling happy about the choice is very important. Depending on where you live you might have just one, two or maybe three schools to apply to. Or there may be numerous schools if you live in a city. So how do you go about knowing which will be a good fit for you and your child?
School catchment area is a key admission criterion for schools. This is generally based on the furthest distance that a pupil was admitted to the school the previous year but boundaries can be extended or shrink, according to the variables of each intake year. For example, one year there may be a larger cohort of siblings or looked-after children taking priority or it may be a year with a high birth rate, so the map alone does not guarantee your top choice.
You can check each school’s catchment area through your local authority to establish whether you’re likely to fall within it. Think carefully before aiming for a school for which you’re not in the catchment area. You don’t want to waste one of your choices.
Consider your working week. If you’re commuting to work,
how will you do that after school drop-off? Is there a train or bus nearby or space to park your car?
Every school is organised and managed differently, so you’ll need to do some research to see what each school offers and what matters most to you. When you’re shortlisting schools, it’s important to visit to get a feel for each one. Go armed with lists of questions and an open mind. Each school will have its own personality but so does your child. Are they loud or reserved? Smaller schools with just one-form entry might suit a quieter child. If your child has any special educational needs, you’ll want to know the school caters well for them.
Extras
What wrap-around care does the school offer? If it doesn’t suit your needs, are there sufficient alternative options? Find out which secondary schools pupils go on to and see how that impacts on your thought process. For example, if a high proportion of the pupils go to the best local secondary school, then that’s a plus.
Find and compare schools at www.gov.uk/school-per formance-tables. See Ofsted reports at reports.ofsted. gov.uk
Get to grips with the move into full-time education with the Good Schools Guide (www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk) and The School Run (www.theschoolrun.com)
Understand a school’s catchment area with the interac tive tool at The School Guide (www.schoolguide.co.uk)
Parents of a child with additional needs can seek advice at My Family Needs (www.myfamilyneeds.co.uk)
Reach out to other parents. Local Facebook groups are useful and so are forums where you can contact other parents eg www.mumsnet.com and www.netmums.com
And there are some super resources for starting primary school at BBC Bitesize (www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize) and Family Lives (www.familylives.org.uk)
Perform is a unique children’s drama school for 4-7s and 7-12s with a special emphasis on child develop ment. Their weekly classes use a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, small Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration.
The curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform and, with apps, mp3 downloads and videos to support the classes, the magic continues at home.
Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions at any point in the term and children are welcome to join any time. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today.
Venues: N1, N2, N4, N5, N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, N13, N14, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11
020 7255 9120 ✉enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/try
Your 4-10s can enter a world of colour, mischief and magic with Pinocchio, the little wooden puppet who wants to be a boy. Perform children will step inside Gepetto’s cosy workshop, march with toy soldiers and dance with ballerinas as their team of theatre professionals take your child on a sparkling adventure topped off with a mini-musical performance on the last day.
Dates: December 19 to 21, 10am to 3pm
Venues: St John’s Wood, Highbury, East Finchley and Muswell Hill
020 7255 9120 ✉enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/try
If you’re looking for an exciting read to add some magic to Christmas, we’ve got just the thing.
The Terracotta Horse, by Scott Lauder and David Ross, a fast-paced action-packed adventure story, rich in mythology and history. The story weaves from present-day London to Viking England to Xian, China, home of the Terracotta Army. It follows 15-year-old martial artist Salma Mansour, who is caught in a time slip and meets Sara and Sanjeev. They find the destiny of the world is in their hands as they work together to defeat a wealthy gang leader bent on immortality.
Selling Points:
1. Fast paced, action packed, and immersivemiddle grade adventure story.
2. Rich in mythology, history, and adventure.Based on real works of art and historicalcharacters and events.
By Victoria WilliamsonRRP £8.99 / PB: 9781911107507
3. Diverse protagonists and settings: the storyweaves from present day London to Xi’an,home of the Terracotta Army.
September 23rd, 2022
Young Teen eco thriller. Age: 11+
In eco-thriller War of the Wind, by Victoria Williamson, 14-year-old Max’s life changes forever when he loses his hearing in a boating accident. Struggling to make sense of his new life, he and his friends uncover a sinister experiment and must find a way to shut it down before it spins out of control.
Featuring a cast of children with special needs, this propulsive young teen eco thriller is a story of secret government weapons testing gone wrong...
David Ross taught in Asia for over ten yearsand still teaches summer school in the region.He has a doctorate in education and currentlyteaches English in secondary school in upstateNY, where he lives with his wife and two sons.
Fifteen skill British years the Things Sanjeev, They all three Warriors on Linimmortality. Dan empower dream...even control...
Selling Points:
Click to watch the book trailer
Both books are published by Neem Tree Press and Families North London has FIVE of each to give away to our readers. For a chance to win a pair of books, go to bit.ly/compsFNL
See T+Cs at bit.ly/NeemCompTCs. Closing date November 30.
Scott Lauder was born in Ayrshire, Scotland.Having taught in Greece, Japan, and England,he now lives with his wife and four cats in theUAE where he teaches English. His wife isIndian, and they both enjoy hiking anddrinking good coffee. His other books includeThe Right Thing, A Single Shot, and The BoyKing Tutankhamun.
The workdestinytogether him...or
1. 20% of author royalties are going to be donated to the British Deaf Association.
The Three Hares: The Terracotta Horse, 9+ £8.99. PB: 9781911107194
2. Main protagonists are children with special needs that take centre stage in the unfolding drama, showing their abilities in a positive light.
On a remote Scottish island, fourteen year old Max’s life changes forever when he loses his hearing in a boating accident. Struggling to make sense of his new life and finding it hard to adapt in school, he begins to notice other even stranger changes taking place when a new wind farm appears off the island’s coast.
War of the Wind. 11+. £8.99. PB: 9781911107507. 20 per cent of author royalties to the British Deaf Association.
Children are particularly adept at learning languages before the age of six, and can pick them up quite quickly with the right support.
With the help of three school friends with additional support needs, Max discovers that a sinister scientist, Doctor Ashwood, is using wind turbines to experiment on the islanders. They must find a way to shut down the government’s secret test before it spins out of control...
Victoria Williamson is an award winning children’s author from Glasgow. She has taught maths and science in Cameroon, trained teachers in Malawi, taught English in China and worked with children with special
For further information Tatti de Jersey
"This is a precious gift to give your child," said David Gassian, Headteacher of the Collège Français Bilingue de Londres, in Kentish Town. "An additional language will prove useful in many situations, whether they want to stand out in the job market, relocate to a different coun try, or volunteer abroad for their gap year."
Learning in a bilingual environment also helps pupils develop soft skills and prepares them to grow into open-minded individuals. Being accustomed from an early age to work with two teachers and change from one language to another, pupils in bilingual schools develop a strong capacity to adapt – a vital skill in the 21st century.
CFBL is an independent English-French bilingual school, for boys and girls from nursery to Year 10, in Kentish Town. www.cfbl.org.uk
Introducing a new baby into the family can be exciting yet nerve-wracking. Here are some tips on preparing older children for the arrival of their baby sibling to help them to feel loved and included during the process.
If they are under two, they may not be that interested, and may take the idea of a new addition to the family in their stride. However, a slightly older child might be bursting with questions or struggle emotionally with the transition.
Explain that the new baby is going to be with mummy or daddy most of the time and the baby is going to do a lot of sleeping, crying and feeding. This will also help manage their expectations so they won’t expect their new sibling to be a playmate from the moment they enter your home!
Show your children some old photographs of when you were pregnant with them, or of them when they were a baby. Talk to them about what it was like when they were younger and how they too cried and fed all hours of the day. This will be a lovely bonding exercise and help them understand why the new baby will need more attention initially.
Using a doll is another great way to introduce your children to the idea of having a baby around the home. They can prac tise how to be gentle, hold the baby and talk to them. This helps to normalise the idea of a baby. Better still, if you’ve got friends or family with small babies, set up meet-ups or play dates so your child can get used to hearing baby cries, being around a baby and observing how mums and babies interact.
Get them involved in the planning
Ask what they think of the names you’ve picked out. Chances are they won’t like your choices and would prefer Spider-Man or Peppa but the key thing is to value their opinions!
Take them shopping for newborn essentials
It will help them feel important if you let them pick some baby clothes. They could also help put new items away, pack the baby changing bag or even prepare the nursery.
With thanks to leading UK baby brand, Nuby (www.nuby-uk. com) for this article.
Once baby arrives, singing to the baby, helping bathe them or passing the wipes or a clean nappy are all easy little tasks that can help a new older sibling feel like they have an important role in the family.
Let them meet their new sibling as soon as possible. A hospital may feel big and scary but the more included they feel at this stage, the more they will contin ue to do so down the line.
Your child is not going to under stand perfectly how to behave around their baby sibling straightaway. They will make mistakes. One thing to avoid is punishing them or telling them to go away when this happens. Just be patient, calmly explain what they should do instead and let them have another go.
Involving siblings in easy little tasks can help an older sibling feel that they have an important role in the family
· Enjoyable, active, fun musical learning based on traditional and classical music
· Fosters social interaction, language development and self esteem in small age related year groups
· High quality music education broad, structured, proven methodology
· Foundation for our hugely successful instrumental programme
· Professional musicians, specialists in Colourstrings/ Kodaly/child development
· Long term success on instruments 5 6yrs to 19yrs
Call Yvonne 020 8444 9435
www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk
Helping children to long term musical success since 1995
We’re recruiting infants from birth through
age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s BabyLab & ToddlerLab in central London. Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses.
We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies
It’s the MOST wonderful time … of the year! It sure is! And what better way to experience Christmas with little ones than on a city break? Our friends at Tested by Tots have identified some of the most family-friendly UK cities in which to experience the full magic of Christmas.
Glasgow holds all the festive fairs that you would expect from a city but it also offers a range of theatre and entertain ment for little ones. From a variety of pantos to Children’s Classic Concerts such as The Night Before Christmas, there is plenty to keep you entertained. bit.ly/glasgownightbeforexmas
Travel by Santa Trains from Kidderminster to Arley to see your favourite characters in pantomime (www.svr.co.uk/events/santatrains22). Twenty minutes away, Bodenham Arboretum’s live nativity play is superb. (www.bodenhamarboretum.co.uk)
Nottingham’s festive markets offer something for everyone, from retro style to a sparkling Winter Wonderland. Trinity Square is a city highlight and last year it contained a specially constructed Christmas village which offered visitors the chance to relax with hot chocolate in a number of igloo-style domes. A unique experience.
bit.ly/nottswinterwonderland
A beautiful, picturesque city that truly embraces the spirit of Christmas. Alongside its regular markets, the city holds an annual Christmas Festival. This year’s festival will run from December 2-4. In addition, Durham will be full of festive music, seasonal storytelling, Car ols in the Cathedral, a children’s Lantern Procession and so much more. bit.ly/durxmasfestival
Belfast
Perhaps not the first destination that comes to mind when you think about Christmas but Norwich has lots of festive charm, including the most anticipated Christmas attraction in the UK – The Tunnel of Light. As one of the largest of its kind in Europe, the Tunnel of Light consists of more than 57,000 LED bulbs and over five and a half miles of cabling. bit.ly/norwichxmas
Why not celebrate Christmas with a trip to a festive castle? Cardiff Castle has a fantastic Christmas festival with incredible shows such as Santa’s Wish, Castellana and The Nutcracker, all performed in the round. Plus, there’s a spectacular Christmas Market and Winter Wonderland. bit.ly/cardiffcastlexmas
Tested by Tots checks out and recommends only products and services that are genuinely child-friendly. For hints and tips on holidaying with children, including holiday packing checklists, go to www.testedbytots.com
Belfast
This city goes big when it comes to Christmas with light shows, displays, markets and a Georgian experience. The kids won’t believe their eyes!
bit.ly/xmasbel
Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Mar ket is widely recognised across Europe and is inspired by German Christmas markets. The Cathedral is at the heart of the city’s festivities, lighting up in celebration with Christmas services and other festive activities that carry on into the New Year.
bit.ly/wincxmasmarket
Exeter city comes alive this time of year with an ice rink and Winter Wonder land plus the usual carol concerts and pantomimes. Drive twenty minutes and you’ll also find Pennywell Farm which boasts one of the best live nativity and Christmas experiences in Devon (www. pennywellfarm.co.uk).
bit.ly/xmasinex
Stage Academy, London’s leading independent parttime performing arts school for 4 to 18-year-olds is go ing from strength to strength with ven ues now including Highgate, Crouch End, Islington and North Finchley.
Parents and children are loving their Stage Academy classes, here is what they have to say:
“Our experience with Stage Academy has exceeded all of our expectations so far.” Ayse, Stage Academy parent.
“Beyond my expectations! My daughter loves going and has told her friends about how much she loves the class” Maya, Stage Academy parent
"Since Day One, my daughter has been so excited to come to Stage Academy. She is up super early and ready to go by 8am even though they start at 11am!” Aneliese, Stage Academy parent.
In July 2023, your child will have the opportunity to perform in a Central London theatre so now is a perfect time to join in the fun!
The upcoming New Year is a great time to try the Stage Acad emy difference for yourself. Book a free, no-obligation trial session for our weekly classes at stageacademy.co.uk or call 0800 808 5327.
The pressure to create a perfect Christmas can build into a
on a plate of mince pies, threatening to
minute. But when you realise that you can’t
including the actions of your extended family or your delivery man, it can be liberating! Chloe Lowe has a few tips on managing the mental load.
Write a list of the top three things that mean the most to you this Christmas. Focus on those first. Doing a few things well will feel so much better than spreading yourself too thin and doing lots of things, just "ok".
Ask for and accept help - it’s a sign of strength.
Slow down to speed up. Taking some deep breaths or even indulging in a Christmas movie, will help you reset, re-ener gise and get some headspace.
Ask yourself what your children really want and need this Christmas and focus on that rather than feeling pressured to spoil them or compete with peers.
Avoid too many excesses. Enjoy some fizz and a few mince pies but counter them with a family walk in the fresh air or a healthy breakfast or lunch.
Reduce your time on social media. It’s amazing how many hours you’ll get back.
Giving yourself the gift of self-care will mean that you can enjoy Christmas too.
Chloe Lowe is founder of @parentlistapp (www.parentlist.app), the app for busy parents who want to find joy in parenting.
To have your event listed on these pages email the details to editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk
Disclaimer: We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.
The Cornley Polytechnic work their comedy magic on a 1920s murder mystery – but everything that can go wrong does go wrong. Will the audience ever find out Whodunnit? 8+. From £22. Duchess Theatre, Catherine St, WC2B 5LA www.mischiefcomedy.com/ theplaythatgoeswrong-london/ london
Exuberant musical experience, with uplifting songs, sensitive songs, close harmony and invigorating dance and music. Various times. From £18. Peacock Theatre, WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com
With beautiful puppets, magic and acts so tiny you may wonder how you can possibly see them. 3-6s. Various times, prices. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2DN www.littleangeltheatre.com
Until Nov 20
The King of Nothing Anarchic puppet musical retelling of The Emperor’s New Clothes. 5-11s. Tickets £8. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2EH www.littleangeltheatre.com
Planet Play Magical, interactive, sensory show with songs, music and movement for 0-3s. 10am. Adults £6, children & babies, free, must book.
Tales From The Shed Vibrant, inclusive, informal and educational show. Suitable for 0-6s. 11.30am. Adults & children £6. Under 6mths free, must book. Canada Villa, NW7 2BU www.chickenshed.org.uk
A Square World
Endearing and funny look at the unfairness of being left out in a world designed for everyone but yourself. 3-6s. 11am & 1pm. £8. Lyric Hammersmith, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk
Dame Dolly is ready for her production but the cast have not turned up. Will the boys and girls –
and grown-ups – help her out? All ages. 11am, Adult £8.50, child £7. Pickled Pepper Books, Enfield, EN2 6SN
Based on the book Pat-a-Cake Baby, Long Nose Puppets create a mar vellous moonlit show full of riotous rhyme, music and song. 2-8s. 2-8s. 11am & 2pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk
Sing along to your favourite Little Mix songs, dance to Doja Cat and party to the music of stars such as Arianna Grande and Olivia Rodrigo, sung live, with dance competitions and prizes. Suitable for all ages. 6pm. £16. Mill field Theatre, Silver Street, N18 1PJ www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk
Planet Play Magical, interactive, sensory show with songs, music and movement for 0-3s. 10am. Adults £6, children & babies, free, must book.
Tales From The Shed Vibrant, inclusive, informal and educational show. Suitable for 0-6s. 11.30am. Adults & children £6. Under 6mths free, must book.
Finchley Youth Theatre, N2 9ED www.chickenshed.org.uk
There’s a Rang-Tan in My Bedroom
Imagine finding a turtle in your bathtub and a jaguar in your kitchen. How did they get there? 5-11s. 11am & 1pm. £8. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk
Dame Dolly is ready for her production of Red Riding Hood but the cast have not turned up. Will the boys and girls – and grown-ups –help her out? 3-10s. 10am, 11.30am, 3pm. £20.50 adult&child. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk
Jina and the STEM Sisters
Join lost budding scientist Jina on her adventure, empowered by some of history’s super-STEM women, Ada Lovelace, Hedy Lamarr and Marie Curie among others in this highly imaginative multi-media musical puppet show. 7+. 1pm & 3pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk
Saregama Live – Disco Dancer
Journey back to the 80s with Bollywood’s iconic film, on stage. Various times. From £18. Sadler’s Wells, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com
Nov 17
Bring Your Own Baby Comedy
For grown-ups, babies under 15months welcome. 12pm. £15 adult & child. Artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk
Nov 19 & 26
Father Christmas and the Broken Sleigh
Oh no! Can you help Father Christmas out? Fun toddler-friendly show. 0-3s. 10am & 11am. £20.50 adult&child. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk
2pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk
Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas For under-6s. Various times. From £10. Lyric Hammersmith, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk
Can video game fan Jack complete all the levels of The Beanstalk and conquer his fears in this spectacular Christmas show – with a cast of over 200 on stage for each performance. Tickets from £10. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk
Nov 26-Dec 23
Picture Perfect Christmas
The Mother of all pantomimes is back in Hackney this festive season, starring Clive Rowe as Mother Goose. What would you do if you found a magical goose who lays golden eggs?! That’s exactly what’s in store for Mother Goose and she soon discovers that this priceless talent isn’t all it’s CRACKED up to be. Packed full of all of your favourite pantomime ingredients, this reimagining of the classic rags-toriches tale is the perfect festive treat. Expect larger-than-life characters, gloriously outrageous costumes, incredible live music, uncontrollable laughter and loads of audience participation… oh yes, there definitely is. Suitable for all ages. Various times/ prices. Hackney Empire, E8 1EL. www.hackneyempire.co.uk
Everyone in the forest is very excited to gather ingredients for the Christmas cake, but where are the hazelnuts? Will the animals have Christmas without a cake? Find out in Clogless Lobster’s puppet show. 3-7s. Various times. Adult & child £20.50. See Dec 2 & 9 for 0-3s show. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk
With colourful sets, extravagant costumes and exuberant dancing. Various times. Nov 30 2.30pm re laxed. From £18. Peacock Theatre, WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com
Jack and The Beanstalk
With music, dance and comedy. 6+. Various times. From £10. Lyric Ham mersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk
Enchanting Scandinavian folklore about a delicious steamed pudding left out on the windowsill on Christ mas Eve. 4-11s. Various times, prices. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2DN www.littleangeltheatre.com
Family Circus Cabaret
A circus cabaret with family-friendly acts and exciting acrobatics. 12noon & 3pm. £9.95. Jacksons Lane, N6 5AA www.jacksonslane.org.uk
Explore an ecosystem of balloons –universes in miniature. 2+. 11am &
Larger-than-life characters step out of a masterpiece into a musical, magical adventure. Weekends and holiday. Various times, 3+. £15. The National Gallery, WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk
We’re Going On A Bear Hunt
Brave hunters and bear-lovers will enjoy this thrilling and funny adventure by Michael Rosen, brought to life in an entrancing puppetry production. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2EH www.littleangeltheatre.com
Jack Frost and the Search for Winter
Jack loses his magical icy touch and searches the world for winter, meet ing characters who share his season al winter magic. Can he get his magic back? 3+. 11am & 2pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk
Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty
A wondrous world of magical fair ies and vampires, where the tale of good vs evil is turned upside down. Various times. Jan 7, 2.30pm, audio described and touch tour. From £15. Sadler’s Wells, Theatre, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com
The Smartest Giant in Town Music and puppets bring to life Julia Donaldson’s heart-warming tale of friendship and helping those in need. From £10, St Martin’s Theatre, WC2H 9NZ www.stmartinstheatre.co.uk
The Grinch’s Christmas Adventure & Santa’s Grotto
High energy, all-singing, alldancing extravaganza with whacky characters, for the whole family. 3+. 10.30AM & 1PM. On Dec 4, 11am & 3pm. £10. The Bull Theatre, EN5 5SJ www.thebulltheatre.com
Haunting tales of the festive season. 10+. Various times. From £15. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk
Everyone in the forest is very excited to gather ingredients for the Christmas cake, but where are the hazelnuts? Will the animals have Christmas without a cake? Find out in Clogless Lobster’s puppet show. 0-3s. Various times. Adult & child £20.50. See Nov 19 & 26 for 3-7s show. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk
Dec 4
Well-known numbers from favourite shows with a festive theme, performed by West End singers, plus bubbles, poetry, dance and audience interaction. 11am & 2pm. All ages. Festive fancy dress encouraged. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk
Christmas Tales from the Shed Vibrant, inclusive, informal and edu cational show. 0-6s. 10am & 11.30am. Seated in Rayne Theatre. Adults & children £10. Under 6mths free, must book. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk
The Smeds and The Smoos Music, laughs and interplanetary ad ventures from Tall Stories’ adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. 3+. See website for relaxed and BSL shows. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk
Join Snow White and the seven superheroes on an amazing journey to reclaim her spot in the royal kingdom and defeat the wicked Queen once and for all. All ages. Various times/prices. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk
The Nutcracker Sparkling festive treat. Ballet suitable for all. Various times, dates. £8-£150. Royal Opera House, WC2E 9DD www.roh.org.uk
Blippi The Musical
Returning after selling out this summer. For 2-7s. Various times. From £22. Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7ES thelyrictheatre.co.uk
Non-professional production of the classic. Various times. Adult £15.50. U-16 £13. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY www.alexandrapalace.com
Join Dick, his acrobatic cat and a cast of crazy characters on the adventure of a lifetime. Various times. Child from £16.50, adult from £19.50, Un der 1s in arms £5. Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar, EN6 2HZ https://wyllyottstheatre.co.uk
Oh no! Can you help Father Christ mas out? Fun toddler-friendly show. 0-3s. 11am. The Woodman, N6 5UA. www.littlesupernovas.com/bookings/ christmas-show-woodman
The best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit – but without the rude bits. 12pm & 2.30pm. 6+. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk
Can beauty tame the beast with the
help of his servant – Madame Bidet? Various times. £12, concs £10. Dug dale Theatre, EN2 6DS. www.dugdalecentre.co.uk
Packed with circus moments, shadow puppets and beanstalk-climbing ac tion. Be prepared to reimagine what you know about giants. 3+. Various times. From £12. Jackson’s Lane, N6 www.jacksonslane.org.uk
Squirrels get ready! Everyone’s big lovable dog Hey Duggee is coming to the Southbank Centre this winter.
Hey Duggee The Live Theatre Show is going to be huge and will feature many of your favourite characters on stage for the first time ever! Betty wants to make costumes, Happy wants to sing, Tag wants to make music, Norrie wants to dance, Roly wants jelly and they all want you to join them at the Clubhouse. Puppets, music and non-stop family fun in this brand-new production at the Southbank’s Royal Festival Hall from 14 December to 8 January. A-Woof! All ages. Check online for relaxed and BSL shows. 11am & 2.30pm. Various prices. Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk
Dec 15-31
The Fir Tree
Promising a magical hand-crafted forest and a Christmassy reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale performed under the wintry starlit sky. All ages. Various prices. Halfprice seats available for under-18s Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com
Magical, immersive, multi-sensory adventure with live music and puppetry. Holly and Juniper can't wait to play when the world outside is blanketed in snow. 2-5s. Various times. See website for relaxed performances. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk
The English National Ballet sets up a Christmas treat with more than 100 dancers and musicians bringing this festive classic to life with exquisite dancing, beautiful sets and Tchaik ovsky’s popular score played live. Join Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker as they discover the sparkling Land of Snow, vanquish the Mouse King and visit a beautiful puppet theatre that comes to life with dancers from around the world. From £15. Various times. London Coliseum, St Martin’s Ln, London WC2N 4ES https://londoncoliseum.org
An electrifiying tale by David Wal liams. Relaxed performance Jan 2. Various prices. Bloomsbury Theatre and Studio, WC1H 0AH www.ucl.ac.uk/culture/whats-on/ demon-dentist
Magical, interactive, sensory show with songs, music and movement for 0-3s. Times vary. Seated in Rayne Theatre. Adults £10, children & ba bies, free, must book. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk
From the Tales from the Shed team, dec 17, 18, 29, 21, 22, 23, 28, 30. For 0-7s, Adult £8, children £6. Dugdale Theatre, EN2 6DS.
www.chickenshed.org.uk
Baby Broadway Christmas Well-known numbers from favourite shows with a festive theme, per formed by West End singers, plus bubbles, poetry, dance and audience interaction. All ages. 10am & 11.15am, £7. Under 6mths free. Chickenshed, N14 4PE.
www.chickenshed.org.uk
From the Tales From the Shed team. For 0-7s. £6 for a family of five. Grand Junction, W5 2TF www.chickenshed.org.uk
With all your favourite Disney friends. Various times, prices. The O2, Penin sula Square, SE10, 0DX. www.theo2.co.uk
Let’s All Dance, known for making high-quality ballet accessible for children and families. Promises to be spectacular and lavish. 1pm & 3pm. From £19. Under 18mths free. Sadler’s Wells, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com
Hot Wheel Monster Trucks Live Glow Party Monster trucks competitions and battles, plus a car-eating firebreathing transforming robot megasaurus, dance parties and Hot Wheels toys giveaways. Various prices. The O2, SE10 0DX www.theo2.co.uk
The Sleeping Beauty Magic and fairytale characters brought to life in ballet. £9-£170. Royal Opera House, WC2E 9DD www.roh.org.uk
Promises dazzling costumes, toetapping tunes and a hilarious script. Various times. Jan 21 11am, abridged version ideal for toddlers and the youngest children. £15, concs £13. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk
Andrea Salustri creates remarkable visual theatre by exploring the possibilities of polystyrene – the most common form of plastic. Part of the London International Mime Festival.
3pm & 7.30pm. £18. Jacksons Lane, N6 5AA www.jacksonslane.org.uk
Little Red Riding Hood
Family pantomime that promises to have something for everyone including Goldilocks and the three bears. Non-professional production by The Warren. Various times. From £13. Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar, EN6 2HZ https://wyllyottstheatre.co.uk
Some venues run sessions for children with special needs. See our page at www.bit.ly/FNLsend
Ongoing Mac’s Indoor and Outdoor Trails
Family discovery trails at Kenwood House, Hampstead Lane, NW3. Family Events have been on hold, but check out www.english-heritage.org. uk/visit/places/kenwood/families
Forty Hall, Enfield, EN2
Features interactive children’s exhibition about the lives of children who may have lived and worked there. Free. Or help Rip the dog find his bones and win a small prize –£2.50. Open 11am-5pm Thurs to Sun. www.fortyhallestate.co.uk
The Keeper of Paintings and the Palette of Perception Immersive experience via phone for 7-11s. The National Gallery, WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk
Family trails, interactive exhibits in RAF: First To The Future – Free entry. And paid-for exhibits, 4D theatre, flight simulator, Spitfire Experience. Open every day. 10am -5pm. Free. Must book. Parking charge. RAF Museum. NW9 5LL. www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london
Grant Museum of Zoology
Get to know a dodo from a quagga. Tues-Fri 1pm-5pm. Sat 11am-5pm. Free, no booking required. UCL, University St WC1E 6DE. ucl.ac.uk/culture/grant-museumzoology
Whitewebbs Museum of Transport Open Tuesdays and the last Sunday in the month. Check website for events and closures. Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, Whitewebbs Road, EN2 9HP www.whitewebbsmuseum.co.uk
Being Human & Medicine Man
Permanent exhibitions exploring what it means to be human, and looking at how humans have sought to understand the human body, protect themselves and care for one other. Free. The Wellcome Collection, NW1 2BE. https://wellcomecollection.org
The 100 Story Hotel Play exhibit running alongside permanent play spaces designed to fire up children’s imaginations. Must book. Discover Children’s Story Centre, Stratford, E5 4QZ https://discover.org.uk
Ted’s Space Adventures Planetarium show, under 7s. 11.30am. Check website for Meet The Neighbours, 7+, Starstruck, 7+, The Sky Tonight, 7+. Adults £10, child £5. Student & under 25 £6.50. Booking advised. Entry adult £16,
child £8. Royal Observatory, SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk
Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz & Walks Venues throughout North London. www.bringyourbaby.org
Storytelling and Music for 0-4s Various times. £5. Royal Albert Hall, SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com
Every third Saturday Make, Do and Maintain
Facilitated session. Various themes. All ages/abilities. 10.30am-12pm. Free, £1 booking fee. Prince Philip Maritime Collections Centre, SE3 9QS
www.rmg.co.uk
Second & Fourth Sunday Chess Club
All levels welcome. Children must be accompanied. 1-3pm. Free. Wood Green Library, N22 6XD Email dalmar.gibson@haringey.gov. uk | husseyin.ali-diakides@haringey. gov.uk
First weekend of the month Family Fun Weekends
Workshops, songs, activities and experiences for all ages. See colourful characters aboard every weekend and school holiday. Cutty Sark, SE10 9HT. www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark
Every Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday Dad’s drop-in group
T on The Green, Bruce Castle Park, N17. Sat 12-1.30pm, Tues & Thurs 3.30pm-5pm. Free children’s refreshments. tonthegreen.co.uk
A place for families to play, make and create together. For all ages. Tate Britain, Millbank, SW1P 4RG tate.org.uk
Join an exciting performance and see maritime history brought to life. Various times. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk
Discover Sundays
Creative activities. All ages. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk
Bruce Castle Museum hosts art, crafts and poetry led-workshops. 4-12s, must be accompanied. Little explorer gallery with interactives and dress-up, 3-8. Free. Plus there is a Mystery Manor Trail with sticker booklet for £1, and a Tree Trail. Weds-Sun 1pm-5pm. N17 8NU bit.ly/brucecastle
Facilitated play, songs and stories for under-5s. £4. National Maritime Mu seum, SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk
Tuesdays and Fridays in term-time Singing and Story Sessions
For under-5s. Various times. London Transport Museum, WC2 ltmuseum.co.uk
Tuesdays until Dec 6 Library Club
Free, with reading corner and diverse book-pairing service. 4-6pm. Free for 0-11s. Hackney Showroom, N4 2BN www.hackneyshowroom.com
Activity sessions and cafe. Meet friends over coffee and homemade cake and lunch while your little ones enjoy playing in the enclosed garden or taking part in exciting activities including Busybricks Duplo playroom and Tales & Trails storytelling and garden trail, or get creative with one of our lovely craft packs! There’ll also be a special Festive Event on December 21 See website for more details and activity bookings. Free entry to café & garden. Salisbury House, Bush Hill Park, N9 9LA. www.thesecretgardenpopup.com
Hang-out for babies, toddlers and their adults, with soft play and music. 10-11am for pre-walkers. 11amnoon tots on the move. £3 donation. Hackney Showroom, N4 2BN www.hackneyshowroom.com/easyrollerz
Developmental stay and play for under 2s with a disability or developmental delay. 10.30am. Free. Email Karen Rodrigues-Ayers@kids. org.uk. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk
For 3-8s and their families. 2pm-
4.30pm. JW3, Finchley Road, NW3. Free. Drop in. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET www.jw3.org.uk
The Highgate Watercolour Group Annual Exhibition
Free. Thurs-Tues 12-4pm. Weds 11am-3pm. Lauderdale House, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk
Iconic colourful paintings by Stanley Donwood. Plus until December 4, Butterfly Effect, using a wealth of found materials. Both free. Saatchi Gallery, SW3 4RY www.saatchigallery.com
Exclusive display in collaboration iconic footballer Harry Kane. And Grime Stories: From the Corner to the Mainstream, exploring the history of Grime in East London and the community at its heart. Free but booking is advisable. Museum of London, EC2Y 5HN. www.museumoflondon.org.uk
Walk Through British Art Works from 1545-present. Free. Tate Britain, Millbank, SW1P 4RG. tate.org.uk
Until Jan Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation and Hope Free exhibition. Must book. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Until Jan 1 Sorting Britain: The Power of Postcodes
The Postal Museum. Discover the ground-breaking technology that changed the post forever. Plus ride the Mail Rail. postalmuseum.org
Until Jan 8
Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature Discover Potter’s life as a scientist and conservationist in this familyfriendly exhibition. Adult £14, under11s free. V&A, SW7 2RL. www.vam.ac.uk
The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Activities, experiences and exhibition to mark the Queen’s connection with the armed services. Imperial War Museum, SE1 6HZ. www.iwm.org.uk
Until Jan 22
The New Black Vanguard Photography between art and fashion: showcasing 15 of the most influential black fashion photographers working today. £10, concs £5, U-10 free. Saatchi Gallery, SW3 4RY www.saatchigallery.com
Until Feb 19
Objects of Desire: Surrealism and Design 1924-Today
Delve into the relationship between Surrealism and design. Adult £16.80, child £8.25, concs £12.50. Design Museum, W8 6AG. www.designmuseum.org
Tiny Traces: African & Asian Children at London’s Foundling Hospital
Explore newly uncovered stories. Closed Mon. Adults £9.50, concs £7.50, NHS £4.75. U-21 free. Foundling Museum, 40 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk
Step Into Infinite Space
Experience two of Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms. Be immersed in endless reflections. Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG. £10. www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern
Weird Sensations Feels Good: The World of ASMR
Explore the emerging world of creativity triggered through this sound phenomenon. Adults from £9.50. Family from £21. Must book. Design Museum, W8 6AG. https://designmuseum.org
How, over 700 years, public executions shaped the city we know today. 12+. Various prices. Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL. www.museumoflondon.org.uk
Africa Fashion
Exploring its global impact through photos, textiles, music and visual arts. £16, under-26 £10, under-12 free.
See Body Adornment Workshop Nov 19. V&A, SW7 2RL. www.vam.ac.uk
How wealth created through transatlantic slavery shaped the development of Britain. Free. Bank of England, museum entrance on Bartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum
Until May 4 Science Fiction: Voyage to the Edge of Imagination
Immersive genre-defying exhibition exploring visions of the future through the science of today. 8+ recommended. Adult £18, child/ concs £16.20. Science Museum, SW7 2DD.
www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
War Games: Real Conflicts/Virtual Worlds/ Extreme Entertainment Exhibition exploring what video games can tell us about conflict, placing video games alongside realworld artefacts, plus playable retrogaming focusing on the First World War. Age suitability not given. Free. Advance book timed entry or walk up and wait. Imperial War Museum, SE1 6HZ https://www.iwm.org.uk
Weekly collective for young people to think, discuss and create together. For 15-25s. 2-4pm. Free. Book. Camden Art Centre, NW3 6DG https://camdenartcentre.org
The colourful world of artist/designer Yinka Ilori. Free. Design Museum, W8 6AG. www.designmuseum.org
Until July BBC at 100
Meet an original Cyberman and see how the Beeb has used tech to deliver its mission to inform, educate and entertain. Free. Must book. Science Museum, SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Until Jul 2
Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Various prices. Must book. Natural History Museum, SW7 5HD www.nhm.ac.uk
Find out what life was like as a young boy at the palaces of Amarna and Gurob. For schools and families. Tues-Fri 1pm-5pm. Sat 11am-5pm. Free. Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology, UCL, Malet Place WC1 6BT.
ucl.ac.uk/culture/petrie-museum
New interactive gallery opens. Try your hand at the vital tasks of technicians in the arts, manufacturing, medicine and more. Operate a robot, create life-saving drugs and step into a reconstructed lab from a Marvel film set. Free. Must book. Science Museum, SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Join Illustrator Sharon King-Chai. Enjoy her latest book, written by Julia Donaldson, and create a nature-inspired mobile. For 2-7s. 2.30pm. £14.99, includes book, sib lings £5 redeemable against a book. Adults free. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL
www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk
The “Glastonbury of Fireworks” with fire jugglers, funfair, dancing, laser show, fireworks and a big ol’ bonfire. Check website for ticket prices. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY www.alexandrapalace.com
Rides, inflatables, circus skills, fire show, hot food. Gates 5pm. From £8. Tickets online only. The Walker Ground, N14 7JZ. www.thewalkerground.co.uk/fire works
Food stalls. Gates 5.30pm. Bonfire 6.30pm. Display 7.40pm. Adult £10, child £6, family £28. Advance tickets online. Totteridge Millhillians Cricket Club, N20 8PB. www.totteridgefireworks.co.uk
Rugby screening and display. Doors 4.30pm, kick off 5pm, fireworks and entertainment from 7pm. Ends 11pm. £5-£12. StoneX Stadium, NW4 1RL www.universe.com/events/ stonex-stadium-fireworks-tick ets-86DV4T
Top-quality baby and children’s clothes sold by mums to mums at a fraction of the high street price. Parents with outgrown goods can sell and keep 100 per cent of the proceeds. 10am-12noon. St Stephens Church Hall, Park Avenue, EN1 2BA. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk
Create a poem or bring one you’re working on and get tips on performing before taking to the stage at the Friends and Family Poetry Night. Workshop 4-6pm, for 8-13s. Poetry Night 6-8pm. Book workshop and Poetry Night tickets. Hackney Showroom, N4 2BN www.hackneyshowroom.com
Funfair rides, gourmet street food. Hadley Wood Association, EN4 0EL. Doors 4.30pm, fireworks 6.15pm. £11. Five for four offer. Must book. www.hadleywood.org.uk
Fun-packed creative activities, ideal
These venues often have holiday family events
No details as we went to press
Pollocks Toy Museum www.pollockstoymuseum. co.uk
Little Angel Theatre www.littleangeltheatre.com
The Cartoon Museum www. cartoonmuseum.org
The Design Museum, holi day courses for 10-14s www. designmuseum.org
Dugdale Centre www. dugdalecentre.co.uk
Bank of England Museum www.bankofengland.co.uk
Museum of London (check out family walks). EC2Y 5HN. www.museumoflondon.org.uk
National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Rd, SW3 4HT. Character meets www.nam.ac.uk
RSPB Rye Meads, SG12 8JS events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey KT8 9AU. Character meets and talks www.hrp.org.uk
Tate Modern, Bankside. Family play and create. www.tate.org. uk/visit/tate-modern
for 3-10s. Suitable for all. 10am & 1.30pm. Adult £10, under-18 £8. Royal Opera House, WC2E 9DD www.roh.org.uk
Family pond-dipping and mini-beast hunting. 1pm-3pm. Free, donation welcome. Camley Street Natural Park, N1C 4PW www.wildlondon.org.uk
Unique gifts, hand-made decorations and artisan food producers. Adult £20, concs £18, child £9. Business Design Centre, 52 Upper St, London N1 0QH www.businessdesigncentre.co.uk
See Santa, plus gift and train ride. Book £14.95, walk-up £12.95. Springtime Nurseries, EN2 9EE. www.christmas-wonderland.co.uk
Delivered in BSL and spoken English. Drop-in, free. 11am, 1pm, 3pm. V&A, Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk
The Lord Mayor’s Show
7,000 people, 200 horses and around 150 floats in procession from Mansion House to the Royal Courts and back. Check website for full route and timings https://lordmayorsshow.london
The Great Barrier Reef
Book launch event with author Dawattie Basdeo reading and signing her story and yoga book 2pm-4pm. Yoga sessions at 2pm & 2.45pm. £10.99 includes a copy of the book. Pickled Pepper Books, Enfield, EN2 6SN www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk
Impossible Images: ancient Egypt
Create an Egypt-themed family photo. Drop in. 10am-4pm. Free, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW www.britishmuseum.org
Space-themed sleepover for 7-11s. £70. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Family workshop with artist Lily Ash Sakula exploring what makes a family and the many different types of family. 3-12s. 2-3pm & 3.30-4.30pm. Free, drop-in but booking advised. Camden Art Centre, NW3 6DG https://camdenartcentre.org
Light trail, street vendors and say "hello" to Father Christmas. Select ed dates, Entry from 4pm to 8pm. Closes 10pm. Various prices. Kew Gardens, Richmond, TW9 3AE www.kew.org
Skate at Somerset House Child, from £10, Adult from £20. Closed Dec 25. Somerset House, WC2R 1LA www.somersethouse.org.uk
Rides, ice skating, circus shows,
Santaland and more. Closed Dec 25. Must book timed entry, Free offpeak, £5 or £7.50. Entry to Santa’s Grotto, free. Hyde Park W2 2UH https://hydeparkwinterwonderland. com
Making Masks: Japan Drop in. 10am-4pm. Free, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org
Family workshop to make wearable creations, inspired by Africa Fashion. 120mins. 10.30am, 7-10s. 4pm 1013s. £7. Must book. V&A, Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk
Sea Shanty Festival
Workshops and performances. 10am-4.30pm. Cutty Sark, SE10 9HT. www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark
Diverse storytime readings, author talks, illustration tutorials, zinemaking workshops, performances and more. 12noon-6pm. Tickets from £4 (pay what you can). See online for full festival programme. Bernie Grant Arts Centre, N15 4RX www.berniegrantcentre.co.uk
THIRTEEN
Exhibition by the group of professional and accomplished amateur photographers. Free. ThursTues 12-4pm. Weds 11am-3pm. Lauderdale House, N6 5HG www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk
Christmas Fair
Over 100 curated stands at Chelsea Physic Garden. Entry £8. Limited walk-up tickets available. Chelsea Physic Garden, 66 Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HS www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
Christmas Fayre
Friday 4-8pm. Sat & Sun 11am-4pm. Adults £2. Under-15s free, must book a ticket. Forty Hall, EN2 9HA www.fortyhallestate.co.uk
Nov 25
Family Friday Dance workshop for 2-4s and their carers. 2pm. £4. Sadler’s Wells, Theatre, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com
Nov 26
An Explosive History of Hydrogen Andrew Szydlo presents a whistlestop tour. For 7+. 6-7.15pm. Adult from £16, child/concs from £10. The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS www.rigb.org
Nov 26
Family-friendly community day. Kite-flying, cloud painting, cloud making. 8+. Children must be ac companied. 10.30am-1.30pm. Free, must register. Lordship Recreation Ground, N17 www.haringey.gov.uk/ events/202209/childrens-free-ac tivity-head-clouds
��Nov 26-Jan 3
See Santa, until Dec 24, Fairground rides, ice rink. Brent Cross shopping centre, Hendon, London NW4 3FP winterfestivalbrentcross.com
��Nov 26-Jan 3
The Magic of Christmas Festivities, talks, crafts, Polar Post Room and Santa’s Grotto, Dec 3, 4 & 10-24. London Zoo. NW1 4RY www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo/ whats-on/the-magic-of-christmas
Nov 28, Dec 19
Nature Storytime Interactive story and craft. 10.30am11.30am. 1-5s, siblings welcome. Free, donation welcome. Camley Street Natural Park, N1C 4PW www.wildlondon.org.uk
Dec 2-Jan 1
Christmas at Kenwood Light trail. Kenwood, NW3 7JR. www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/whats-on/kenwood-christ mas-at-kenwood
��Dec 2-20
Storytime with Father Christmas Storytelling and gift. Various times. £21.50, Royal Albert Hall, SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com
��Dec 2-23
Santa’s Grotto See Santa. £15. Adults must book a free ticket too. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY www.alexandrapalace.com
Dec 3
East Barnet Community Christmas Fayre 11am-4.30pm. www.facebook.com/ EBCchristmasfair
��Dec 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 & 18
Father Christmas Storytelling In small groups, with a gift, and a chance to explore the garden, and enjoy a craft activity. Child £12, accompanying adult £10. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
��Dec 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 & 18
An Audience with Father Christmas Festive tales and a gift. £10. Kenwood, NW3 7JR. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ whats-on/kenwood-audiencewith-father-christmas
High Barnet Christmas Fayre Street festival, rides, charity, craft0 and food stalls, performances. High Street, Barnet, EN5. https://lovebarnet.co.uk
Buy, sell, recycle and save at this sale of quality baby and children’s items from birth to eight years. Book to sell. 10am-12noon. Hornsey Parish Church, Cranley
Gardens, Muswell Hill N10 3AH. ✉kathryn@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk
��Dec 10 & 11
Santa’s Christmas Grotto £11 per child. Adults free. Lauderdale House, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk
Dec 17
Minecraft Masterpieces: Rome
Try your own Roman construction. Drop in. 10am-4pm. Free, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org
Dec 18
Chanukah Funukah
Fun-filled family celebration for the first night of Chanukah. 0-6s. 2pm. Adult £5, child £9. Under-2 free. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk
��Dec 19-23
Dine With Santa Adults £38, children £28. Kneb worth, SG1 2AX. www.knebworthhouse.com
Dec 19-22
Chanukah light-ups
Chanukah arts and crafts followed by candle-lighting at 4.30pm and festive fun. All ages. Drop-in. Free. 4pm. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk
Dec 20
The Maths of Christmas How to apply game theory to select people for your Christmas list, or cut a Christmas pud so everyone thinks they have the biggest slice. Talk. 13+. 6-7.15pm. Adult from £16, child from £10. The Royal Institution, Albermarle Street, W1S 4BS www.rigb.org
Dec 26
Families Winter Disco Disco-style party for all the family with a special last-nightof-Chanukah twist. 7+. 11.30am. Adult £5, child £7. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk
Feb 1 & 2
The Smartest Giant in Town Julia Donaldson's heartwarming tale of friendship, brought to life with music and puppets. Various times. Adult £18, child £14.50. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk
Feb 3-5
Strictly Come Dancing Live! Live tour. Various times. Various prices. The O2, SE10 0DX www.theo2.co.uk
Dinosaur Adventure Live Join a quest to save the dinosaurs and meet some incredible species. From £15. Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar, EN6 2HZ https://wyllyottstheatre.co.uk
Little Supernovas create imaginative parties with an adventure tailored to your child’s wishes and theme and include all their favourite magical characters and stories. Our parties and clubs incorporate action storytelling, music, props, drama, movement and plenty of giggles.Christmas Holiday Club: Dec 19-23, N6. www.littlesupernovas.com/parties hello@littlesupernovas.com
N-Sun Café (Ballards Lane, Finchley, N3) kids cafe with soft play, spacious venue for parties, classes and activities too. 07399947748. https://n-sun.co.uk
We are a Chinese language school established in 2015 specialising in innovative Mandarin language courses for children aged 3-12 in London. Classes suitable for children with or without Mandarin background. At Giggling Panda the focus is very much on fun. We guarantee an immersive experience full of stories, art, crafts, games, songs, poems about Chinese history and traditions, and formal language learning through professional in-house content. Classes at weekends, various choices, at North/East Finchley and Watford. Contact us for a trial on 0793 249 4420. ✉admin@gigglingpanda. co.uk www.gigglingpanda.co.uk
Hindi classes Speak from the first lesson. No previous knowledge needed. Small group zoom classes. Missed class support. Classes: 5-7, 8-14, 16-adult. New toddler singalong. Private lessons. Free trial class. Quick learning holiday clubs too. "Geeta uses English teaching methods and merges them with songs, poems, drawing, colouring, and various other innovative methods so children are engaged in learning Hindi and at the same time learn about their culture." magicofindia.org
Highly sought after and recommended professional tutoring, experienced in developing and preparing children to learn, lead and succeed all around. Reading, English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, ages 3 ½-13. Book a trial and free assessment today 0208 050 5798. www.antlearning.co.uk
The After-School Learning Centre caters for all children aged 4-18 and is totally dedicated to helping your child achieve the best grades possible in English, Maths, Science, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning and Mandarin through personalised and tailored one-to-one tutoring. Located in North London and Southgate. www.afterschoollearning.com
We offer support from age 5 to university, understanding your child’s needs and matching them with one of our highlyqualified passionate educators who will create a tailored learning plan. Hillgate Tutors listen, guide, encourage and monitor your child to help them achieve their absolute best. Tutoring at your home or online. 07748 956581 to discuss.
www.hillgatetutors.co.uk
appreciation lessons designed to ignite in your child, a love for art and its stories. Art will
much more than
to them and your child will enter the
We aim to bring out the best in your child and we’re not just talking about their new-found skills in dancing, singing and acting. Our students also develop excellent communication skills, grow in self-esteem and enjoy the benefits of improved confidence! We welcome children of all abilities from the age of four to 16 and offer two-week trials. To find out more visit our website at www.stagecoach.co.uk/highgate
Independent school and independentlyrated outstanding preschool, in north London, for boys and girls from 3-11 years old. We understand every child is unique and offer a vibrant and creative curriculum in a nurturing and stimulating school environment. To find out more contact admissions at admissions@ hendonprep.co.uk or call 020 8203 7727.
We offer authentic Montessori educa tion for 2-12-yearolds in 5 locations: Abbey Road, Hamp stead, Bayswater, Notting Hill and Hornsey Rise. Join a school open day to learn about the Montessori approach and watch demonstra tions of Montessori materials, meet teachers and ask questions. To register for an event, please go to bit.ly/MMIvisit
of
offer private lessons, holiday
family
St Kiernan’s Gaelic Football Club - an inclusive, fun environment for kids and adults to learn how to play this high intensity game. Teams from under-6s to senior men and ladies of all abilities. We welcome newcomers to all age groups and the sport can be picked up easily from our excellent coaches. Summer training at our new facility at King George Playing Fields, Barnet Lane, EN5. Winter training is at Woodhouse College, North Finchley. Call Chris Byrne on 07984 184003 or Declan Ryan on 07818 023639
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 to book a FREE class. Venues: N1, N2, N4, N5, N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, N13, N14, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11
Christmas holiday clubs: Pinocchio 3 fun-packed days of colour, magic & mischief, drama, dance & singing for 4-10s. Dec 19-21. 10am-3pm. Venues: N2, N5, N10 & NW8. Visit www.perform.org.uk/pinocchio 020 7255 9120
✉enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk
Performing Arts Academy Classes, Holiday Workshops, LAMDA and in School Workshops/PPA cover. At Lemon Jelly we nurture talent within every child and help them to release confidence for whatever their future holds. We aim to give them the courage to pursue any dream! Classes in Mill Hill and East Barnet. Jelly Tots 3-5 years, Academy Classes 5-7 and 8-10 years, Fusion Theatre Company for ages 11+ 01858 545599
office@lemonjellyarts.com www.lemonjellyarts.com
Unlock creativity, develop performance skills, confidence, solo speaking skills, improvisations and characterisation at our classes for 4-16s, in Crouch End, Muswell Hill, New Harringay Ladder, Tufnell Park, Hampstead Garden Suburb, New Mill Hill, and Pinner. Online classes too. And we run our own agency for those who wish to work professionally.
100% Lamda success rate. Book a free trial. www.achievearts.co.uk
Building selfconfidence, teamwork, ambition and responsibility, we unlock the potential inside every young person, giving them the chance to be the stars of tomorrow - on stage or off. Book a free trial to discover the Stage Academy difference. Classes in Highgate, Gospel Oak, Crouch End, North Finchley, Islington. Act, sing, dance and succeed! https://stageacademy.co.uk
Based in the heart of London, CFBL provides exceptional English-French bilingual education to girls and boys from Nursery to Year 10. Our pupils are nurtured in a welcoming environment where they can discover the joys of learning, supported by attentive teaching staff. CFBL is a multicultural environment with over 35 different nationalities, where pupils grow into creative, open-minded individuals. www.cfbl.org.uk
Kindergartens for a brilliant start and longterm success in music! Develop your child’s musical talent in Kodaly-based music kindergartens and instrumental programmes 6ms to 6yrs, and avoid waits for our instrumental programme for 5-19s. Muswell Hill, Highgate, Islington, Stoke Newington, Hendon, Call 020 8444 9435 for a trial of 3 discounted lessons or email admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk
Diddidance – We create a funky pre-school dance class suitable for all children. We are here to nurture their love of movement in a relaxed environment and cover 16 dance styles. Classes are suitable for toddlers aged from 18 months upwards however if they’re younger and steady on their feet, come and join us!
We run classes in Enfield, Cheshunt and Potters Bar.
Constantina—07983972095
✉constantina.menezes@diddidance. com
www.diddidance.com
A Christian, independent school, we empower our 2 to 11-yearolds to aim high and dream big. Our children are achieving excellence. Our Early Years is Ofsted-graded Outstanding. 1-6 are graded Good. Please contact us for more information or to arrange a visit. See more at bit.ly/ HylandVid. Hyland House School is at 97 Holcombe Road, Tottenham, London, N17 9AB. 020 8520 4186 ✉info@hylandhouseschool.org www.hylandhouseschool.org
Mars Montessori in Angel is a small bilingual FrenchEnglish Montessori nursery. We provide very highquality childcare in a nurturing environment in two languages. In September 2018, we introduced an Introduction to Mandarin programme, and we are proud of the brilliant take up. In April 2018, we were given the highest possible rating of OUTSTANDING by Ofsted in every category. 020 7099 0452 www.bilingualnurseries.com
We know that each child is unique and has their own set of strengths and areas to develop. Our childcentred approach allows us to foster joy and understanding of the learning process. We have instituted child-friendly, rigourous and informal testing. We celebrate commitment, curiousity, courage and compassion to create the foundations for happy, successful and fulfilling lives. We are rated excellent in all areas. www.kingalfred.org.uk
Under the leadership of our new head, we aim to provide outstanding secondary education for our diverse and dynamic community, with emphasis on high standards, inclusion and supporting social mobility. We offer a broad, balanced curriculum and extensive enrichment activities. office@broomfield.enfield.sch.uk
Tiny Talk – Learn to communicate with your baby before they can speak, at an award-winning TinyTalk baby signing class. Interactive music class and sensory activities, plus time for a cuppa. www.TinyTalk.co.uk/zahrak
Re-energise, and increase wellbeing, strength and flexibility with experienced instructors teaching all elements of Tai Chi and Qi Gong at our welcoming classes. W Hampstead, Highbury & Islington, Highgate, Enfield, Stoke Newington, E Finchley, Crouch End & Hornsey, Old St, Camden, Muswell Hill, Hackney, Walthamstow and more. Online too. https://taichinews.com
Independent school for children aged 2 to 18, on six locations for different age groups. We understand that success is not simply defined by outstanding academic achievement, but by every pupil finding a direction in life that truly reflects their unique talents and personality. Call admissions to check for occasional immediate places on 020 7428 1520. www.northbridgehouse.com
Find out how to get your business idea off the ground with a free course from Rebel Business School — a funded initiative to boost business start-ups and to help businesses grow. You don’t need a complex business plan or a loan. Starting a business is achievable for anyone and everyone.
Rebel Business School helps businesses start and grow, gives the skills needed and it’s completely free. Course are free to attend. Find out more at therebelschool.com/enfield
