Families Surrey East Jan/Feb 2020

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Surrey East IN THIS ISSUE Early Years Special The Importance of Lullabies Kids Corner Plus...

The best local guide to what’s on in January & February

Helping children believe they can do anything Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds DORKING 0800 007 5482 stagecoach.co.uk/dorking

REDHILL 0800 007 5482 stagecoach.co.uk/reigate

REIGATE 0800 007 5482 stagecoach.co.uk/reigate

LEATHERHEAD 0208 394 2244 stagecoach.co.uk/leatherhead

COULSDON 0345 078 0805 stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon

OXTED 01883 708158 stagecoach.co.uk/oxted

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

Issue 74 January/February 2020 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Surrey East

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

MONDAY 17 – FRIDAY 21 FEBRUARY Craft Activities available throughout the day from 11am until 3pm Ranging from £1.75.

Monday 17th & Friday 21st 10am, 11am & 12pm

TEDDY BEAR’S TRAIN RIDE & STORYTELLING! Bring your favourite Teddy for a vineyard train ride and storytelling. £7.50 per child which includes a chocolate treat / £3 per adult which includes a hot drink.

Tuesday 18th 11:30am & 2:30pm

TROPICAL CREEPY CRAWLY ROADSHOW Meet Snakes, Lizards, Mini-Beasts, Frogs for an inspiring Animal Encounter. £7.50 per child Accompanying adults free of charge.

*Taking place on the outdoor Vineyard Train, warm clothing recommended.

WEDNESDAY 19th 11:30am & 2:30pm

THURSDAY 20th 11:30am & 2pm

FANCY DRESS DISCO!

ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND

Traditional children’s disco including party games & dancing.

One of the UK's best loved touring theatre companies.

£7.50 per child / Accompanying adults free of charge.

£7.50 per child / Accompanying adults free of charge

BOOK ON-LINE WWW.DENBIES.CO.UK Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking. RH5 6AA T.01306 876616

A school for life Where every child is extraordinary Curious Minds & Active Bodies Daily activities for Under 5s • Toddler Forest School

• Classical Ballet & Tap

• Active Play

• Swimming Lessons

• Get Active with Sport

• Toddler Group

www.hawthorns.com 2 Families Surrey East

A thriving independent school in Bletchingley for boys and girls aged 2 to 13

Please join us for one of our forthcoming

Open Mornings Friday 7th February Thursday 12th March

Book your visit

www.hawthorns.com familiesonline.co.uk

Perform is Celebrating its 20th Anniversary!

Surrey East Editor Tamar Pearson editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk Design Rebecca Carr rebecca@familiesmagazine.co.uk Printer Print Mates

Families Chatted to Founder, Lucy Quick.

How did Perform start?

I was a musical theatre actress in Oliver! at the London Palladium and I loved working with children. I had a vision for a drama school that wasn’t about talent or auditions; where performing arts would be used to develop what we now call the 4 Cs: confidence, communication, coordination and concentration.

£40 Intro Discount Quote SUE14022 0

21,000 copies printed 42,000 readers per issue

Where is Perform at now?

Starting with two classes in 2000, we now run 472 schools across the South East and West, employ over 250 teachers and have almost 8000 children attending weekly.

Next issue March/April Booking deadline 7 February

What’s the secret of Perform’s success?

We put child development at the heart of everything we do.

Cover Image Depositphotos

Welcome to issue 74 Welcome to our 74th issue.

Celebrate with us, with two great competitions offering family tickets to Bocketts Farm Park and LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort world’s first DUPLO® Dino Coaster, set in the heart of the bigger and even better DUPLO Valley!

Enjoy our very first Kids Corner, filled with fun and exciting activities for your little ones. This Valentines share the love and paint bright, colourful LOVE ROCKS to leave for some unexpecting strangers to fine. Remember to share your LOVR ROCKS with us at www.facebook.com/familiessurreyeast. We would love to see them all.

What does the future hold?

Opening more Perform schools across the country – we’re just launching in Nottingham - and continuing our confidence crusade to help children fulfil their potential through drama, dance and singing.

What are you proudest of?

My teachers. They are the most inspirational bunch of talented and enthusiastic people you’ll ever meet.

Try a FREE no-obligation dance or drama class in Surrey East and surrounds..

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book.

Quote SUE140220 for an introductory £40 discount when you book.

This issue we have our Early Years feature, with dedicated Early Years News Board, sharing top tips on setting your little ones up for a year filled with happiness and achievements.

Wishing all our families the most magical year. Happy 2020.

Tamar xx

In this issue 4. News 6. Education News 7. Independent School Open Days 8. The Importance of Lullabies 10. Early Years News Board 12. What’s on in January & February 15. Kids Corner Families Surrey East 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 contents of Families Surrey East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Surrey East. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Surrey East; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. familiesonline.co.uk

Families Surrey East 3

News

Spin a tale during National Storytelling Week The first week of February marks National Storytelling Week, a chance to reflect on one of the oldest art forms in the world. We are all immersed in stories, from conversations during which we retell events in our lives, to watching our favourite television shows.

Speech and language therapists believe that storytelling is vital for children’s academic success as it promotes narrative skills and strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer a child needs firstly to be a good speaker and listener.

Above all though, storytelling is fun. Whether we are listening to someone else’s story or telling our own, inventing and adapting narratives can open doors to exciting new worlds — both real and imaginary.

National Storytelling Week takes place in storytelling clubs, theatres, museums, schools, hospitals, spoken word venues, and care homes. extensive archive, visit www.sfs.org.uk

Learn to swim with Freedom Leisure A recent report by the Amateur Swimming Association shockingly revealed that more than half of children aged between 7 to 11 are unable to swim a minimum of 25 metres unaided, meaning that over 1 million children in the UK are potentially unsafe in and around water!

Freedom Leisure centres in Caterham and Oxted aim to provide the best swimming lessons in the area, with well-structured, rewarding, affordable and fun lessons for all ages and abilities.

Swim School direct debit members also benefit from free unlimited swimming throughout the year at the centre.

Find out more www.swiminsurrey.co.uk

Everything you need under one roof!

The Big Garden Birdwatch The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch takes place from 25 to 27 January and is the largest wildlife survey in the world. The information collected helps monitor bird species in the UK, and is great fun for children.

To take part, you need to watch the birds in your garden or local park for just one hour at some point over the three days and report your results to the RSPB. You can request a FREE Big Garden Birdwatch pack from the RSPB which includes a bird identification chart and advice to help you attract wildlife to your garden.

To make it fun, challenge your children to see who can spot the most birds. Take a bike ride to a local park to look for birds, or make a day trip out of it and spot birds in a new place.

More info: www.rspb.org.uk

Do you want to be part of Girlguiding in Surrey East?

Covering Surrey East, you will never be too far away from a local Rainbows, Brownies, Guides or Rangers group.

What is Girlguiding?

Girlguiding Surrey East is part of Girlguiding, the leading charity in the UK for girls and young women. They offer an exciting programme of activities for girls and young women across Surrey East. With over 1000 volunteers, they enable girls to discover their potential and help them grow into confident, curious young women.

Girlguiding Surrey East is for all girls; anyone can be involved!

Girlguiding Units in Surrey East: Rainbows (girls aged 5-7) Brownies (girls aged 7-10) Guides (girls aged 10-14) Rangers (girls aged 14-18) Girlguiding Surrey East are always looking for new volunteers to support our units in roles which range from unit helper to unit leader.

Interested and want to find out more, please go to www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved/become-a-volunteer/ or send an email to rebecca. webb@girlguiding.org.uk

Nower Wood, Leatherhead Enjoy nature with your little one Bugs, mud & exploring galore!

Book your places online

redhillbelfry.co.uk 4 Families Surrey East

surreywildlifetrust.org/wildtots

familiesonline.co.uk

News

Do you have what it takes to be a Wildlife Warrior?

Surrey Wildlife Trust is encouraging children to become Wildlife Warriors and take action to help nature. You could go out for a walk to spot wildlife, improve your garden or help out in your school wildlife garden.

You can upload photos and put details of what you have done on an interactive map and then see what others in their local area are doing.

The link to the web page and map is: www.surreywildlifetrust.org.uk/wildlife-warriors. You’ll find ideas and tips on how you can become a Wildlife Warrior on the page too.

Free Magazines for your school, nursery, cafe, shop or club - just ask! editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk or 07947 535 986

Winter is a great time to get out and about and spot birds in particular. Follow Surrey Wildlife Trust on Facebook for ideas for families on how to have fun outdoors over half term.

Indoor fun packed tennis lessons for children 3-11 years are coming to Reigate “You can’t be serious”! Well you can…Serious about having fun, and that’s the mantra at Tennis-4-kids. Tennis-4-kids is coming to Reigate and surrounding areas in early 2020. Tennis-4-kids believe fun should form the basis of any learning for young children, especially when it comes to sport, which is why the classes can be enjoyed by, and are beneficial to toddlers as young as three. The cleverly crafted fun and games-based approach means children attending the tennis classes in Reigate, learn tennis techniques without even realising it. ‘’We offer so much more than tennis lessons. Sports based activities for young children offer a host of other proven benefits. Fitness, confidence, fine motor and hand eye co-ordination, teamwork, sportsmanship, discipline and sports etiquette, the ability to understand winning and losing – and we could go on’’, Gordon Wood – Director, Tennis-4-kids.

For more information, or to book a free trail please visit: www.tennis-4-kids.com To advertise your business to over 45,000 parents living in East Surrey in our next issue call 07947 535986 or email editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk

learn to swim

Running • Jumping • Throwing • Fun

• From 21/2 - 8yr olds • Classes Weekly • Birthday Parties • Holiday Camps

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includes:

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*direct debit swim school membership only

Visit athletixkidz.com for class bookings and more information familiesonline.co.uk

Families Surrey East 5

Education news

Micklefield School extends its learning to prepare their children to meet the needs of the digital age. Whilst the school achieves excellent academic results, technology and creativity are also prioritised.

Subjects like Design and Technology, Computing and Art and Design are delivered by specialist teachers, which allows the children to further develop their skills and talents in a well-resourced IT room and art studio. Here the children have access to a 3D printer and Computer Aided Design software (CAD).

Micklefield prides itself on providing a nurturing family friendly environment with strong values that offers high quality tailored education and dedicated pastoral care. Due to the small class sizes, each individual is supported to ensure they reach their full potential.

More info: www.micklefieldschool.co.uk

On the ball at The Hawthorns School Girls at The Hawthorns School, Bletchingley, are eagerly looking forward to their second season of Football. Last year the School introduced Football as one of its four curriculum girls’ team sports for Years 5 to 8.

Vitoria Middleton, Head of Girls’ Games said: “The girls enjoyed the camaraderie of learning together, supporting each other with a cando approach and acknowledging that it takes practice to develop new skills. They are excited to be playing a sport that is gaining recognition both nationally and globally and are pleased to be part of this wave of change.”

Due to the success of this trial, this year girls and boys alike will enjoy playing Football from Reception right through to Year 8.

Andy Morris, Director of Sport commented: “The Hawthorns School has an ethos of ‘Sport for All’ and encourages all pupils to enjoy sport regardless of their ability. Alongside Football girls also play Netball, Cricket and Hockey as part of the curriculum.”

More info: www.hawthorns.com

Dunottar School, Reigate - where children receive an excellent education Dunottar School in Reigate is a co-educational day school where boys and girls aged 11 to 18 receive an excellent, rounded education as part of a vibrant, friendly community.

Teachers at Dunottar are passionate about their subjects and deliver an engaging curriculum designed to spark imaginations and instill a love of learning, so that students acquire skills and confidence to think critically, challenge convention and aim high. Pupils are encouraged to be aspirational, tenacious, curious, creative, independent, collaborative and inclusive both within and beyond the classroom, and exceptional pastoral care underpins every aspect of school life.

Located just outside Reigate, Dunottar offers the transport convenience of a town centre site in a stunning 15-acre countryside setting.

Call the admissions team on 01737 761945, or visit www.dunottarschool. com for more information about Open Mornings.

6 Families Surrey East

Banstead Prep School pupils are celebrating their success at the inaugural Banstead Young Artist of the Year competition.

The competition invited local school children to submit their own works of art to be exhibited at Banstead Community, where members of the public as well as Banstead Art Group members were encouraged to vote for the pieces that they felt showed the greatest maturity and understanding of artistic techniques.

In what was nearly a clean sweep for Banstead Prep School, a number of pupils achieved awards across the age categories. The children all received a certificate, prize ribbon and generous prizes of artist materials provided by local business Pullinger’s Art Supplies as sponsors of the competition. More info: www.bansteadprep.com

Salfords Primary School strives to ensure the very best education There is good quality care and support; Salfords has a great environment which ensures children feel safe and happy while learning. There is also a wide range of out-of-school clubs to enrich the curriculum.

They have a hard-working team which is motivated to do well and fully supports the efforts being made by the Co-Headteachers to bring about positive change and there is a real sense of joint working throughout the school.

As a result of the determined and nurturing staff, pupils settle quickly to learning and establish routines with high expectations for their behavior, and they respond to the school’s values which are embedded across the board.

You can find out much more at their open morning on Wednesday 8th January at 9.30am. www.salfordsschool.org

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Banstead Prep pupils celebrating success in local art competition

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OPEN MORNINGS

Education news

Open events require advance booking, so please call the school to check.

Banstead Prep Banstead, SM7 3RA Co–educational Prep school Pupils 2–13 yrs www.bansteadprep.com Open Day Thu 6 Feb Open Day Fri 20 Mar Toddler Time parent and toddler group Fri 7 Jan, 7 Feb, 13 Mar, 9.30am - 11am

Belmont Prep School Dorking, RH5 6LH Co–educational day and flexi boarding school Pupils 2 – 16 yrs www.belmont-school.org Open Day Mon 10 Feb Open Day Fri 6 Mar Box Hill School Dorking, RH5 6EA www.boxhillschool.com School at Work Day 11 Feb, 11am - 12.15pm Open Morning 14 Mar, 10.15am Caterham School Caterham, CR3 6YA www.caterhamschool.co.uk Open Day Wed 5 Feb, 9.30am Open Day Wed 4 Mar, 9.30am Croydon High School Croydon, CR2 8YB Independent girls’ day school Pupils 3–18 yrs www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Year 3 Taster Afternoon Sat 29 Feb Sixth Form Taster Day Fri 31 Jan

Downsend School (Pre/Preps) Leatherhead, Ashtead and Epsom www.downsend.co.uk Little Downsend - Leatherhead & Ashtead Fri 6 Mar, 9.30am – 11.30am Year 2 - Year 11 Open Day (Downsend) Fri 6 Mar, 9.12am – 12noon Dunottar School Reigate, RH2 7EL Co–educational day school Pupils 11-18 www. dunottarschool.com Open Day Tue 25 Feb, 10.15am

The Hawthorns School Bletchingley, RH1 4QJ Co-educational day school Pupils 2-13 yrs www.hawthorns.com Open Day Fri 7 Feb, 9am Open Day Thu 12 Mar, 9am Hazelwood School Oxted, RH8 OQH www.hazelwoodschool.co.uk Open Day Fri 7 Feb Lingfield College Lingfield, RH7 6PH Co-educational Interdenominational Pupils 2.5 -18 yrs www.lingfieldcollege. co.uk Prep & Nursery Open Day Sat 21 Mar

2020 Open Mornings Tuesday 25th February Wednesday 29th April Thursday 25th June To book your place visit: www.dunottarschool.com or call 01737 761945 Dunottar School, High Trees Road, Reigate, RH2 7LE.

Manor House School & Nursery Little Bookham, KT23 4EN www.manorhouseschool.org Prep School & Senior School Open Day – Wed 5 Feb, 9.30am Micklefield School Reigate, RH2 9DU Co–education Prep school Pupils 3-11 yrs www.micklefieldschool. co.uk Open Day 7 Mar Oakhyrst Grange Caterham, CR3 6AF www.oakhyrstgrangeschool.co.uk Open Day – Fri 28 Feb, 10am 12noon Reigate St Mary’s Reigate, RH2 7RN www.reigatestmarys.org Open Day Fri 24 Jan, 10.30am – 12noon Open Day Wed 11 Mar, 10.30am – 12noon

Salfords Primary & Nursery School Redhill, RH1 5BQ Co–education State Primary School Pupils 2 – 13 yrs www.salfordsschool.org Open Day Wed 8 Jan, 9.30am

Warlingham Park School Warlingham, CR6 9PB Co-educational Prep school Pupils 2–11 yrs www.warlinghamparkschool.com Open Day Fri 14 Feb

Essendene Lodge Caterham, CR3 5PB Co–education day school Pupils 2–11 yrs www.essendenelodge. co.uk Open Day Thu 30 Jan, Open Day Thu 23 Apr, 9.30-11.30am familiesonline.co.uk

Families Surrey East 7

Early years

The Importance of Lullabies

By Laura Jane Foley Lullabies have been around for thousands of years.

Musicologists believe the first lullabies were sung over 5000 years ago by the Babylonians. The fact that we’re still singing them today shows they certainly have longevity. Generations of parents have known that singing a lullaby to an infant has a lulling, calming effect. Across all times and languages, lullabies have the same soothing, hypnotic qualities. These are created by the use of repeated, simple one or two syllable words and repeating musical phrases which are easy to predict.

Lullabies are necessarily easy to learn and sing. Infants need to recognise the familiar patterns of notes and words and parents need to be able to sing them without having any musical education or training. Traditionally lullabies were passed on through the generations from parent to child. Popular lullabies have stuck in the nation’s conscience due to the advent of recording, television and radio but there are hundreds of unknown lullabies which are just as beautiful and effective.

However, recent research has uncovered that only 38% of parents sing to their child every day. Yet singing to your baby is just as important as reading to them. A singing voice has a greater calming effect than speech so singing has positive health and emotional benefits not to mention the numerous studies which show that listening to music improves children’s intelligence.

Here is my top 5 list of lullabies to get you started: Brahms’s Lullaby Whether you know it was composed by Johannes Brahms or not, this is the tune you’ll hum if someone asks you to sing a lullaby.

Composed in 1868 it is the most famous and recognisable lullaby in the world thanks, in part, to highly successful recordings by Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Originally written with German words (‘Guten Abend, Gut’ Nacht’) there are several English translations.

Cradle Song by William Byrd I discovered this sweet Renaissance lullaby in an obscure out of print music book. I then spent several weeks tracking down the words for the missing second verse. The words are completely charming; it begins “my sweet, little darling, my comfort and

Give your child the best start in life

joy”. It’s a fairly short lullaby and has a beautiful melody. I think it deserves to be much better known.

Dalmatian Cradle Song This traditional lullaby was originally a peasant’s song from Dalmatia (a region in Croatia). Its lilting melody is hauntingly beautiful. This lullaby tells a simple story about a father being away at sea. The chorus begins “Hush, my babe, my little one” and the “hush” sounds like the crashing waves of the sea. It’s calming and melodic.

Cradle Song or ‘Wiegenlied’ by Franz Schubert This simple lullaby uses few notes and echoes the rocking motion of lulling a baby to sleep. It was made famous by the superstar Italian Tenor Luciano Pavarotti who regularly sang it at his concerts. Originally written in German, several English translations are available which include these pretty lyrics: “slumber, slumber, in sweet dreams reposing.”

A Cradle Song by Ralph Vaughan Williams This beautiful lullaby is more interesting musically than the Schubert song. It has no repetition and has a range of well over an octave which is unusual as most lullabies use the same notes repeated in a limited range. The beautiful soaring melody by this twentieth century composer is complemented by the words of Romantic poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge: “Sleep sweet babe! My cares beguiling, Mother sits beside thee smiling”.

You can find recordings of all the above lullabies on YouTube.

Laura-Jane Foley has also recorded lesser-known lullabies, classical songs and readings for her new album Songs For My Daughter released by the Lullaby Trust and available from Amazon or iTunes price £10.95.

“Designing and creating spaces for children that they will love to be in”

Contact Creative Director Harriet Turley 07931 106 686 info@lolaandmasey.co.uk

Come and discover Warlingham’s hidden gem for yourself Book an individual appointment to come and have a look round

Lola&Masey Childrens Interiors

www.warlinghamparkschool.com 01883 626844

@lola_and_masey

NURSERY - PRE SCHOOL - INFANTS - JUNIORS

www.lolaandmasey.co.uk

8 Families Surrey East

familiesonline.co.uk

WIN tickets to ride the new ‘My First Coaster’ at LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort

Let me tell you why I love my school…

At Croydon High, we see every day as an opportunity to teach, to learn and to experience something amazing. In an environment like that, it’s not surprising that our girls are just bursting to tell people what they love about their school.

Why not bring your daughter along to our next Open Event where we guarantee there will be plenty to inspire her.

Please call 020 8260 7572 to find out more.

WIN

Don’t miss this roarsome new ride opening in March 2020 This year, the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort will welcome you aboard the world’s first DUPLO® Dino Coaster set in the heart of the bigger and even better DUPLO Valley! A pre-schoolers paradise, DUPLO Valley is home to LEGOLAND’s awesome outdoor water play areas, a host of much loved rides, from Fairy Tale Brook and the DUPLO Train to daily puppet shows.

To enter the competition to win 2 adult and 2 child tickets to the LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, email your answer to the following question editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk with the subject The DUPLO Dino Coaster Competition. For full T&Cs see http://bit. ly/2YUu5oM

When will the DUPLO® Dino Coaster ride be opening?

A) January 2020 B) March 2020 C) May 2020

www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

Register to keep up to date with all of the latest DUPLO Valley news at www.LEGOLAND.co.uk/DUPLO © 2020 The LEGO Group

Whole School Open Morning Thursday 6 February Activity Morning for Reception 2020 Tuesday 11 February Book online bansteadprep.com/visit

SUTTON LANE | BANSTEAD | ADMISSIONS@BANSTEADPREP.COM | 01737 363600

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Surrey East 9

Early Years

Night time nappies to no nappies

towards reaching this milestone.

Every parent looks forward to being able to throw away nighttime nappies and pull-ups for good. Try these simple steps

Words Work - Explain to your child that soon they’ll be able to keep themselves dry all night and won’t need nappies/pull-ups.

Putting the idea into your child’s mind triggers important thinking processes necessary to become dry at night.Regularly use phrases like: “Pretty soon, you’ll stop needing these at night-time….”

Step by Step - Explain they will need to visit the bathroom instead. Walk through the steps they’ll take and practise this several times, telling them you will leave lights on so they can see their way easily.

Deeper Sleep - Avoid leaving night-lights on in the bedroom.

A dark bedroom promotes deeper sleep patterns. This might be enough to ensure your child sleeps through without needing the toilet.

Lola & Masey Children’s Interiors creating children’s dream spaces across Surrey Lola & Masey Children’s Interiors is based in Surrey and run by Harriet Turley, an award winning graduate from at KLC School of Design, and a full time nanny to the most lovely families around Surrey.

Working closely with her clients and their children, Harriet aims to design and create spaces for children that they will choose to be in, a space they feel safe in, comfortable, and most importantly loved in.

Working closely with a team of joiners Harriet designs unique and exciting spaces that are not just aesthetically pleasing but make the best use of space for all rooms.

For design enquiries and to start creating your dream spaces please contact Harriet Turley, Creative Director at Lola & Masey on 07931 106 686. Follow on Facebook: Lola&Masey Childrens Interiors and on Instagram: @lola_and_masey.

The benefits of performing arts for children’s wellbeing

Plan Ahead - Put a date in the diary and let you child know when you will stop using nappies/pull-ups. These actually prevent children learning how to take control because their absorbency means your child’s skin doesn’t feel wet.

Accidents - Use an absorbent bed mat in between two layers of sheets. If your child is wet, remove the top layer and use the dry bed underneath.

Declutter - Ensure the bedroom floor is clutter-free so your child can easily move around at night.

Drinks - Avoid drinks one hour before bedtime, but don’t restrict fluids during the day as this could make your child constipated - a common cause of bedwetting.

Think Food - Avoid fizzy drinks, sugary foods, milk and fruit such as strawberries, grapes and melon at night-time as these affect the bladder.

Avoid Rewards and Bribes - They are a distraction and it will be doubly disappointing for your child if they’re not successful one night. Focus your child on learning how to stay dry at night.

Keep Track - Track dry and wet nights during your training period so you can figure out what the cause of wet nights might be.

Alicia Eaton is a trained psychotherapist and author of Stop Bedwetting in Seven Days published by Practical Inspiration Publishing. Visit www.stop-bed-wetting-in-7-days.com

Free stay and play nursery session at Lingfield College Every Friday morning (term time), Lingfield College has a very popular free ‘stay and play’ session. This runs between 9am and 10.30am and is attended by local mums (and a few dads!) and their little ones. Head of Nursery, Mrs Dawn Wild says, ‘I love seeing how happy the children are every week. They start to make friends from an early age and also, they start to explore the wide variety of toys and equipment available. No need to book. Just drop in and all are welcome.

The Performing Arts allows children to be themselves, to be confident in who they are. The skills they learn at Stagecoach are not only fun and engaging but provide children with experience and the key life skills such as confidence and discipline to help them succeed in life. Having an extracurricular interest such as the performing arts provide children with a platform to grow into confident, resilient well-rounded individuals.

Stagecoach runs classes specifically designed for children aged 4- 16, encouraging children to use their imagination, become more confident and helps students to make new friends.

Stagecoach believes that the performing arts should be available to all children so they learn, grow and thrive in a creative environment. We teach important life skills through the powerful medium of the performing arts, we call this brilliant education Creative Courage For Life.

Your child can experience what Stagecoach has to offer in a TwoWeek Trial. To find out more about your local Stagecoach visit www.stagecoach.co.uk

Magical beginnings at Belmont Early Years Pre-School At Belmont, Early Years preschool children enjoy either sessional or full-time education (term time only) in a magical setting, with bright and cheerful rooms, two gardens, an adventure playground and woodland activities. French, Music, Drama, Art, PE, IT, swimming and ballet lessons are provided by specialist teachers in addition to the traditional curriculum. An extended day is possible with breakfast club from 7.30am and after school club until 4.20pm.

‘Lingfield Littlies has been so much fun to come along to. My daughter has loved the variety of activities on offer and enjoyed exploring the nursery classrooms. Coming to Lingfield Littlies has allowed my daughter to become familiar with her future nursery surroundings and the staff’ – Mother to Lucy, aged 2.

In the words of a current parent, Belmont is “A wonderful school and fantastic environment for children to grow up in. A very happy and caring environment. Every child is expected to try their best in all aspects of school life. Belmont turns out happy, confident (not arrogant), well-mannered children. It absolutely lives and breathes the School motto: Achievement through Happiness.”

More info: www.lingfieldcollege.co.uk

For more information, please visit www.belmont-school.org

10 Families Surrey East

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Early Years

Croydon High School in Selsdon, is an exceptional independent day school for girls Part of the Girls’ Day School Trust, the leading network of independent girls’ schools in the UK, Croydon High has been delivering outstanding education to local girls since 1874.

Girls join Nursery in the term in which they will turn 3, progressing through Junior School, gaining confidence and experience, enjoying unparalleled opportunities to discover individual talents with a curriculum specifically developed to empower and inspire girls.

This includes specialist teaching in areas such a computer science, drama, music and PE from Nursery up.

A personal tour of the Junior School on a normal school day is the perfect opportunity to meet Head Sarah Raja, to see first-hand how the girls learn and to soak up the school’s unique atmosphere.

Contact us to find out about our age appropriate assessment process - the Junior Admissions team is on 020 8260 7572 or juniors@cry.gdst.net

Birkbeck Babylab expand studies to include school age children Birkbeck Babylab don’t just study babies!

Our team of friendly researchers create fun and interesting studies to learn how brains in babies, toddlers and children develop. Our studies appeal to both babies and children through play, games and computer animations.

Lisanne and Aude, two of our PhD students, are currently studying 2–6 year olds.

We are currently recruiting children from birth to school age to take part in our research in the heart of Central London. Participants will be compensated for travel expenses. Enjoy a fun day out in London and sign up today!

More info: www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/babylab

Warlingham Park School gives your child the best start Warlingham Park School is a coeducational independent school, set within beautiful grounds in Warlingham and incorporates a Nursery, Pre-School and Infant and Junior schools.

Essendene Lodge Preparatory School and Nursery

Are you looking for more than just day care?

Are you looking for full time or part-time 51 week nursery for your child?

Are you looking for a competitive all inclusive rate?

Essendene Lodge School now has provision for 2 year old children. We have a child centred approach that ensures your child is ahead of age related expectations.

We start our reading programme and focus on giving the pupils structure as well as play based opportunities to extend their learning.

From February 2020, WPS will be extending the Nursery and Pre School provision to 51 weeks a year running from 7:45am to 6pm with extra dedicated staff to maintain their current excellent staff: pupil ratios.

Come and visit our friendly school and find out what makes our children stand out from the crowd!

Refurbishment work on the whole school is currently taking place in particular creating an enhanced area for Nursery and Pre School and Class 1 - The Early Years Centre.

It is a truly inclusive school which provides an individually focused education, within a supportive environment that promotes excellence in learning and exceptional behaviour. Children leave the school as happy, rounded and articulate individuals, with an enthusiastic and confident approach to learning, taking a host of treasured memories with them.

To book an individual visit to look round call 01883 626844 or visit www.warlinghamparkschool.com​ familiesonline.co.uk

Telephone:01883 348349 for more information or to arrange a visit to the school or email office@essendenelodge.surrey.sch.uk Free Stay and Play Sessions every Tuesday 9.00am-10.30am. Come and have a chat with our friendly staff and see for yourself how much fun our children have!

Come to our Free Stay and Play Sessions Essendene Lodge School, Essendene Road, Caterham, Surrey, CR3 5PB

Call 01883 348349

office@essendenelodge.surrey.sch.uk www.essendenelodge.co.uk Families Surrey East 11

What’s on

What’s on

Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ...and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families Surrey East!

Every Fri, 10-11.30 & 1.30–3pm Trails and Tales Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk Enjoy the story and go for a walk in the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story.

Every Thurs 9 Jan - 13 Feb, 10am - 12 noon Wild Tots at Nower Wood Nower Wood Education Centre, Leatherhead www.Surreywildlifetrust.org/families Wild Tots provides a wonderful opportunity for your little ones explore, learn and play in our stunning ancient woodland nature reserve. Weekly sessions include arts and crafts, games, exploration of the woodland, playing with our mud kitchen, minibeasts and so much more.

Suitable for 2-5 year olds accompanied by an adult and siblings under 2 years and babes in arms are FREE. Booking online is essential, book a block of six sessions in advance and receive the sixth session for free or just Pay As You Go. Throughout Jan & Feb The Winter Garden Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham RH5 6BD www.nationaltrust.org.uk Discover cheery yellow aconites and carpets of snowdrops. Between 13 Jan and 14 Feb, you’ll also find places to sit with blankets that have been hand-knitted by our volunteers, and bird-feeders created by volunteers from The Grange.

Every Mon, 1-3pm & Fri 10.30am12.30pm FREE Food Growing Drop-in Sessions Carshalton Community Allotment, SM5 2PW www.ecolocal.org.uk Enjoy the outdoors, meet other people, learn new skills, get a bit of exercise and take free fresh veg home.

Mini Aces club brings the Museum to life through stories, craft, song and dance. With a focus on different objects, stories and exhibits each month, children will discover the treasures we have in our collection and build self-confidence in a new and exciting environment. Book in advance, sessions are limited to 10 children max Sat 11 Jan, 1–2.30pm Museum Kids Club – WW2 Rationing – A fair share for all Bourne Hall, Ewell, KT17 1UF www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk Meet a wartime couple and learn why they rationed food in WW2 and what it was like to queue for hours. Find how important your ration books were. £5.

Until 30 Jan, 10am – 3pm Winter Woollies Trail Claremont Landscape Garden, Esher, KT10 9JG www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden Pull on your warm winter woollies and see what you can find at Claremont as the seasons change. Children will love following our trail boards around the garden.

Sat 18 Jan, 10am – 4pm Autism All Stars - Avengers Reassemble The Belfry, Redhill, RH1 1ST www.redhillbelfry.co.uk Come and meet Autism All Stars Avengers characters including Thanos, Iron Man, Captain America and Black Widow in the Belfry. FREE EVENT. February Half Term - free children’s activities over the holiday week in the Belfry, see our website for details.

Until 31 Jan, 10am – 4pm Winter Children’s Trail Ham House, Richmond, TW10 7RS www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse-and-garden Follow Ham’s own four legged friend to spot everything Charlie the dog has found in this winter children’s trail.

Sat 18 Jan -Sun 19 Jan, 11am-3pm Big Wetland Birdwatch Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhall-park Look for a range of wild birds with our knowledgeable Nature Group as you stroll down our wetlands boardwalk.

Every Tue from 7 Jan, 11 Feb, 10am – 11.30am Into the Woods: Parent & Child Forest School Painshill, Cobham, KT11 1JE www.painshill.co.uk Weekly parent and child Forest School sessions are the perfect way to introduce your child to the great outdoors and try something new.

Tue 21 Jan, 11am – 12.30pm Tuesday Tree Walk - New Year Winter woollies trail Claremont Landscape Garden, Esher, KT10 9JG www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden An excursion among some of our most special trees.

Thu 9 Jan – Wed 22 Jul Exhibition: Polesden Voices Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, RH5 6BD www.nationaltrust.org.uk Uncover the stories of people who lived and worked at Polesden over the last century, using new research and reminiscences.

Thu 9 Jan & Thu 13 Feb, 10.30am11.15pm & 11.30am-12.15pm Mini Aces Under 5s Club Brooklands Museum, Weybridge, KT13 0QN www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Sat 25 Jan, 10am – 5pm Lunar New Year Celebration Whitehall Historic House, Cheam, SM3 8QD www.sutton.gov.uk/ librariesheritageevents Enjoy special activities such as creating your very own money envelopes, celebratory postcards, Chinese paper hats, follow the Zodiac animal trail and more! Storytelling with words, music, puppets and art at 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm. Drop in. Free.

25 Jan- 1 March The Giant Houseplant Takeover RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, GU23 6QB www.rhs.org.uk Step into a house reclaimed by its plants long after its human inhabitants have left. Visitors to RHS Garden Wisley’s Glasshouse will find a banana plant has pushed through the roof, carnivorous plants feasting in the dining room and cacti playing chess.

You may also spot a few plants have grown rather too large and now tower over their relatives.

Sat 1 Feb – Sun 1 Mar, 10am–4pm Polesden love stories Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, RH5 6BD www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey Visit the Love Tree on the South Lawn at Polesden Lacey to write a note to a loved one and discover costumes and stories in the house.

Fri 7 Feb, 10.30am Epsom Bach to Baby Family Concert St Martin of Tours, Epsom, KT17 4PX www.bachtobaby.com Bach to Baby is the acclaimed concert series for the whole family to enjoy together.

Sat 8 Feb – Sun 8 March Kew Orchids Festival: Indonesia Kew Gardens, Richmond, Surrey www.kew.org Visit Kew’s second annual Orchids Festival, on the theme of Indonesia with dazzling displays inspired by Indonesia’s wildlife and plant diversity.

Sat 8 Feb, 1pm – 2.30pm Anglo-Saxons or the not so Dark Ages Bourne Hall, Ewell KT17 1UF www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk The Anglo-Saxons ruled from six centuries from 410 to 1066.

It was a time of war, of the breaking up of Roman Britannia into several separate kingdoms, of religious conversion and, after the 790s, of continual battles against a new set of invaders: Vikings.

Godstone Farm Olympics 15th - 23rd February 2020 Can you complete all 5 challenges and make it onto our hay bale podium?

1st 3rd

Book online & save! www.godstonefarm.co.uk 12 Families Surrey East

FM/WINTER2019

2nd

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paintings and animate the Gallery.

Sat 15 Feb – Sun 23 Feb, 10am – 4pm Half term trail: Spectacular Sticks Winkworth Aboretum, Godalming, GU8 4AD www.nationaltrust.org.uk From den building to sword-fighting, there’s no end to the fun that can be had with the world’s greatest toy – a stick!

Tue 18 Feb - Fri 21 Feb, 11am-4pm Half Term: wild crafts!

Morden Hall Park SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk Roll up your sleeves and join us to make and take home wildflower seed bombs and decorate a grass-head pot!

Booking essential.

Sat 15 Feb – Sun 23 Feb, 10am–3pm Half-term trail: Secret Power of Trees Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, RH5 6BD www.nationaltrust.org.uk Visit Polesden Lacey this February half term and discover the secret power of trees. You might be surprised at how they look after themselves - and each other.

Feb Half Term Puddle Jumping Championships WWT London Wetland Centre, Barnes, SW13 9WT wwt.org.uk Join the Wetland Centre for the London Puddle Jumping Championships this half-term where children of all ages are encouraged to grab their wellies and have fun jumping in puddles.

Sat 8 Feb – Sat 1 Mar Snowdrop Walk Hever Castle, Edenbridge TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk Follow a trail of thousands of snowdrops starting to emerge from their winter hibernation.

Sat 8 Feb – Sun 23 Feb, 10.30am – 4pm Half term trail: Colour Quest Claremont Landscape Garden, Esher, KT10 9JG www.nationaltrust.org.uk With spring on the horizon, colour is returning to the garden once again.

Bring your mini adventurers for some half-term fun this February.

Mon 10 Feb, 10.30am Croydon Bach to Baby Family Concert St. Mildred’s, Bingham Road, CR0 7EB www.bachtobaby.com Bach to Baby is the acclaimed concert series for the whole family to enjoy together.

15 - 23 February Godstone Farm Olympics Godstone, RH9 8LX 01883 742546 www.godstonefarm.co.uk Join us for an action packed day on the farm and celebrate this Olympic year as you complete our farm themed challenges. Will your toy tractor win the race? Will your welly throw be far enough? Get all 5 rings and join us on the winners podium! With animal encounters and play areas to keep all mini Olympians busy, everyone’s a

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Tue 18 Feb, 11.30am & 2.30pm Tropical Creepy Crawly Roadshow Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, RH5 6AA www.denbies.co.uk/events Meet Snakes, Lizards, Mini-Beasts, Frogs for an inspiring Animal Encounter.

Tue 18 Feb,10.30am -11am & 11.30am-12pm Show the Love Family Holiday Workshop WWF Living Planet Centre, Woking, GU21 4LL www.wwf.org.uk Show the love for the things you care about that might be affected by climate change. You will be making 2 colourful flags with your important Show the Love messages – one for our tree in the Learning Zone and one for you to take home with you. Free, but a donation of £2 per child would be greatly appreciated.

Wed 19 Feb, 11.30am & 2.30pm Fancy Dress Disco Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, RH5 6AA www.denbies.co.uk/events Traditional children’s disco including party games & dancing

Mon 17 Feb and Fri 21 Feb, 10am, 11am & 12noon Teddy Bear’s Train Ride & Storytelling Denbies, Dorking, RH5 6AA 01306 876 616 www.denbies.co.uk Bring your favourite Teddy for a vineyard train ride and storytelling at Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking £7.50 per child which includes a chocolate treat. £3.50 per adult which includes a hot drink. *Taking place on the outdoor Vineyard Train, warm clothing recommended

Thu 20 Feb, 11.30am & 2pm Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, RH5 6AA www.denbies.co.uk/events One of the UK’s best loved touring theatre companies.

15 - 23 February Living with Nature at Hever Castle Edenbridge, TN8 7NG 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk Learn more about wildlife and nature as part of Hever Castle’s February half-term event, Living with Nature.

Families and individuals are invited to visit the historic castle in Kent to enjoy ‘Living with Nature’ aimed at school aged children.Come and watch the falconry displays and learn about the work of different wildlife charities as well as take part in children’s activities.

Follow the nature trail in the grounds to investigate animal footprints and tracks, create a ladybug or bumble bee in a free craft workshop.

Thu 20 Feb Earth Hour Family Holiday Workshop WWF Living Planet Centre, Woking, GU21 4LL www.wwf.org.uk Make a colourful collage poster to spread the word about Earth Hour in your school and at home to show how small changes can make a big difference. Stick it in your window and show the world you care! We will be using card, photos, fabric, pens, scissors and inspirational messages.

Mon 17 Feb, 10am – 11.30am & 1.30pm – 3pm Forest Fun Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk Join our Forest School area to explore Cedar Wood, make woodland crafts and enjoy a snack around the fire.

Mon 17 Feb – Fri 21 Feb, 10am – 4pm Half Term: Ready to Race Brooklands Museum, Weybridge, KT13 0QN www.brooklandsmuseum.com This February Half Term get your overalls on and step into one of our workshops as we explore the science behind speed. Join the pit-crew for a fun and hands-on session and have a go at getting a car ready to race at Brooklands.

Tue 18 Feb – Sun 23 Feb Half Term Fun - Inspired by the portraits of William Orpen and G F Watts Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village, Guildford GU3 1DQ www.wattsgallery.org.uk Making Faces - Step into our pop-up portrait studio to experiment with drawing using mirrors and perspex.

Add to our growing Hall of Fame and create portraits to take away.

Every picture tells a story- G F Watts wanted to paint the most interesting faces - you can see some of them in the galleries. Join Storyteller, Olivia Armstrong, to hear the stories of some of the characters, wake up the

RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262

15 – 23 February February Farm Fun at Bocketts Farm Leatherhead KT22 9BS 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Enjoy a great day out on the farm this February Half Term with the start of the Spring lambing. There are up to 70 lambs due from Feb 14th - you may even see one being born! Birds of Prey will also be at the farm Monday-Friday where you can meet them up close and watch the flying demonstrations twice daily. What’s more, the wonderful ‘Gigglettes’ from The Giggle Company will be running shows daily with lots of dancing, games, bubbles and more!

What’s on

Sat 15 - Sun 23 Feb February Half Term- Whatever the weather RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, GU23 6QB www.rhs.org.uk Find out how every type of weather affects plants and how they grow, featuring a different type of weather every day.

15 – 23 February Bring your wellies, grab a jacket and join us for fun family activities inside and out, whatever the weather.

RHS members go free

Your visit supports our work as a charity

Families Surrey East 13

What’s on

from across Sussex & Surrey. From soft flowing Lyrical to hard-hitting Hip Hop the audience is guaranteed to be entertained at what will be nothing less than a visual roller coaster.

Thu 20 February, 10am – 11.30am & 1.30pm – 3pm Junk Modelling: Build a House Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk Make a dolls house, a haunted house or a princess palace! A standard ticket gives access for one child. 4 – 7.

Wed 5 & Thu 6 Feb Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever Get ready for a road trip full of adventures. From castles to caves, dragons to dinosaurs and ice-creams to muddy puddles – there is something for all of the family and their friends to enjoy, including Miss Rabbit, Mr Bull, Suzy Sheep, Gerald Giraffe and more!

Thu 20 Feb, 9.30am – 4pm Wild Explorers Holiday Club Nower Wood Education Centre, Leatherhead www.surreywildlifetrust.org Join us for an action packed fun day out in the woods looking for wildlife, building a campfire, making crafts, building shelters and toasting marshmallows. 5-11. Booking essential.

Thu 20 & Fri 21 Feb, 10am – 8pm Sat 22 Feb, 10am – 4pm Epsom Book Fair Epsom Methodist Church, KT18 5AQ www.epsommethodistchurch.org.uk Annual Giant Charity sale of secondhand books, DVDs and Music. Over 60,000 books including antiquarian, out-of-print, children’s, fiction and nonfiction. Refreshments and light lunches available. Entrance 50p (children and students free).

Mon 24 Feb & Tue 25 Feb, various times Box Hill Bugs Spring Box Hill, Tadworth, KT20 7LB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/box-hill Box Hill Bugs is a fun, exploratory, toddler and pre-school group for nature lovers.

Sat 29 Feb, 10am-3pm The Great Green Leap: Tree planting Morden Hall Park SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk Celebrate the leap year and get involved by helping our Gardens & Outdoor team to plant over a thousand of trees in the park.

THEATRE Epsom Playhouse Epsom Playhouse, KT18 5AL www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk Wed 15 - Sat 18 Jan Sleeping Beauty YOUtheatre are delighted to be back at Epsom Playhouse with Sleeping Beauty the pantomime where dreams come true, our fun filled family pantomime.

Sun 19 Jan Jack Petchey’s Perfect Pitch Jack Petchey’s Perfect Pitch is a music education programme supported by the Jack Petchey Foundation. The programme focusses on the teaching of a cappella skills to young people.

Sun 26 Jan Epsom Symphony Orchestra Animal Magic A colourful concert of musical animals for all the family which will feature the ever-popular PETER and the WOLF which will narrated by David Leonard (West End Matilda’s Miss Trunchbull).

Children of all ages welcome.

Sun 2 Feb The Snow Queen WINTER IS COMING...

When Kai is abducted to an enchanted frozen palace, his best friend Gerda sets out to rescue him… but will she reach the Snow Queen before it’s too late? 5+.

Fri 21 Feb Chinese Cultural Show Mark the fresh beginning and welcome the Year of the Rat at the Playhouse this Chinese New Year as Jinlong Culture & Performing Arts brings a spectacular line-up of Chinese acrobatics, music and dance to Epsom!

14 Families Surrey East

Sat 22 Feb Unbelievable Science Expect explosive thrills, chemical spills and a risk assessment that gives their stage manager chills, all backed up by the daring duo’s trademark wit, charm and detailed knowledge of the scientific method.

Fairfeild Halls Park Lane, Croydon www.fairfield.co.uk Until 30 Mar Donkey Dots with the Musical Balloon Band Donkey Dots is a free music and movement class for under fives. Unique and highly interactive live music sessions every Monday supporting early years development.

Thu 20 Feb LMP Lunchtime Concert – Half term story time A magical story of beauty, nature, music and silence. With music by Debussy, Mendelssohn, Ravel and Shostakovich. Free.

of Narnia behind the professor’s wardrobe; a world that’s frozen in eternal winter, waiting to be set free from the cruel power of the White Witch.

The Hawth Crawley, RH10 6YZ www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk Thu 9- Sun 12 Jan & Sat 18 & Sun 19 Jan Beauty and the Beast COS Musical Theatre is proud to present the classic pantomime Beauty and the Beast.

Returning to the Hawth Studio for its 10th incredible year, this show is sure to delight children and adults alike, with a fun storyline, big dance numbers, and, of course, sing along favourites.

Sun 2 Feb, 3pm Masters of Dance Get ready to be swept off your feet as Masters Of Dance bring together some of hardest working dance troupes

Sat 22 Feb Ensonglopedia of Animals Twenty-six animal songs, one for each letter of the alphabet. Get to grips with fascinating facts about extraordinary echinoderms, distressed damselflies, crazy corals, batty birds and amazing arachnids. Expect the unexpected. And expect it to rhyme Puppet Theatre Barge Blomfield Road (opposite 35) W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com Wed 15 Jan till Sun 23 Feb Little Venice The Water Babies After a harsh beginning of child labour in an unforgiving world, a little chimney sweep’s suffering ends when he is transformed into a water baby.

DO YOU WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS TO 40,000+ PARENTS? Families Surrey East Magazine can help promote your business to over 40,000 parents in the local area. To be included contact Tamar on 07947 535986

Thu 5 Mar & Sat 7 Mar Zog Ashcroft Playhouse Large in size, and keen in nature, Zog is so eager to win a golden star at Madam Dragon’s school, where dragons learn all the things that dragons need to know.

Harlequin Theatre Redhill, RH1 1NN www.harlequintheatre.co.uk Tue 18 Feb Ensonglopedia of Animals Twenty-six animal songs, one for each letter of the alphabet. Expect extraordinary echinoderms, distressed damselflies, curious corals, batty birds and amazing arachnids. Expect the unexpected. And expect it to rhyme.

Dorking Halls Dorking, RH4 1SG www.dorkinghalls.co.uk Thu 16 Jan & Mon 20 Jan Royal Ballet Live: The Sleeping Beauty This production of The Sleeping Beauty has been delighting audiences in Covent Garden since 1946. A classic of Russian ballet, it established The Royal Ballet both in its new home after World War II and as a world-class company.

This ballet is sure to cast its spell over anyone who sees it.

The Leatherhead Theatre Leatherhead, KT22 8DN www.theleatherheadtheatre.com Sun Feb 9 The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Four children, Lucy, Susan, Edward and Peter discover the far away land

and

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Kids corner

Welcome to our very first page just for kids!

Puzzles, competitions and lots of fun!

Spot the difference and win one of two family ticket to Bocketts Farm Park!

Enter our Spot the Difference Competition to win a family ticket to Bocketts Farm Park! How many differences can you spot between these two pictures of the horse riding at Bocketts Farm? To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket to Bocketts Farm, email the number of differences between the two pictures to editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk with Bocketts Competition in the title.

Share the LOVE

If you are under 18, please ask your parent or guardian to email for you. Please include a parent or guardian’s name, child’s name, contact telephone number as well as the number of differences you found. Please email your answer by 5pm on Saturday 29th February 2020.

For full Ts&Cs see http://bit.ly/2tqLnyd.

February LOVE ROCKS Project Throughout the months of January and February paint stones with hearts in bright patterns and colours, leaving them in random places for unexpecting strangers to find in February.

Top Tips Flat stones work best For vibrant colours – paint a white base layer Let the shape of the rock guide you Paint pens, Sharpies and nail polish work very well

How many LOVE HEARTS can you find?

We have hidden some love hearts throughout the magazine - have a look through and see if you can find where they are hiding!

Join the dots to create a creature you may see in your garden this winter!

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We would LOVE to see your LOVE ROCKS! Share the LOVE on our Facebook page

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

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ASK ABOUT OUR TWO WEEK TRIAL

Where children become everything they can be Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

DORKING 0800 007 5482 stagecoach.co.uk/dorking

REDHILL 0800 007 5482 stagecoach.co.uk/reigate

COULSDON 0345 078 0805 stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon

REIGATE 0800 007 5482 stagecoach.co.uk/reigate

LEATHERHEAD 0208 394 2244 stagecoach.co.uk/leatherhead

OXTED 01883 708158 stagecoach.co.uk/oxted

Stagecoach Performing owned Families Surrey East Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently 16 familiesonline.co.uk by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.