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Welcome

We have everything you’ll need for a perfect family Christmas in this issue, including the best Advent Calendars on ofer, gifts for teachers for under £10, hacks to make everything go smoothly, green ideas and a green gift guide, DIY decorations for the kids to make and lots more. Plus if you fancy a festive UK family city break – which could double as a giftbuying opportunity – then investigate some of the cities that put on the best show in the lead up to the big day.

Meanwhile, life ticks on. If your child starts school in September 2023, it’s time to choose schools to put on your application and we have tips and advice for you.

Finally, in this issue, we have Christmas gifts and tonnes of Weebles to giveaway! Apply for these adorable wiggly, wobbly mini-toys at familiesmag. co.uk/go. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on ofer.

Best board games for learning

It’s a great time to snuggle up inside with a board game. If you’re thinking of adding to your collection, here are some options that particularly enhance children’s learning.

Feed the Woozle Fosters self-regulation in a fun & silly way. Ages 3-6. £19.99

Life on Earth memory and matching game

Great for encouraging focussed attention. Ages 3+. £17.99

Spot it Junior! Children learn to suppress their first impulse. Ages 4. £14.39

Zingo Bingo

Develops language skills & self-regulation. Ages 4+. £17

Melissa and Doug Suspend Junior

Encourages planning, decision making & fine motor skills. Ages 4+. £21.99

Sequence for Kids

Involves taking turns, planning & prioritising. Enhances short term memory. Ages 4-7. £30.25

Carcassone

Develops planning, working memory, taking turns & prioritising. Ages 7+. £36.99.

Kingdomino

Develops spatial awareness, decision making, executive functioning & gameplay. Ages 8+. £22.35

Rat-a-tat Cat

Practises maths, memory skills, risk-taking, taking turns, counting & critical thinking. Age 6+. £12.49

The best family Christmas shows

Alice in Wonderland

Brixton House Theatre

Coldharbour Lane SE9 8GL www.brixtonhouse.co.uk 1-31 December

The multi-award-winning company Poltergeist weave rap music together with the sights and sounds of Brixton into a hundred-mile-an-hour Christmas adventure.

Little Red Robin Hood

Battersea Arts Centre

Book here: https://bac.org.uk/whats-on/littlered-robin-hood 6 December – 8 January

DISASTER! The wicked Sherif of Nottingham has captured the famous outlaw Robin Hood! Who is going to stand up for the people now? Surely not a tiny girl in a red riding hood? The team behind smash hit panto-mashups ‘Goldilocks & the Three Musketeers’ and ‘Sleeping Beauty and the Beast’ return to the BAC with a hilarious new Christmas adventure. Featuring a brand new superstar cast and a host of exciting surprises, BAC aims to put an arrow in your bow, a song in your heart and a smile on your face. Tickets from £6.

An un-missable Christmas treat for all the family! From just £6

prince, an abundance of comedy, sensational song and dance numbers and plenty of audience participation; you have the perfect recipe to outwit the Wicked Queen and let love prevail in this glittering festive treat for all ages.

The Nosy Little Troll

Omnibus Theatre

Clapham Common Northside SW4 0QW www.omnibus-clapham.org

3, 4, 10 + 11 December

Deep in the heart of the Norwegian Forest live the trolls – big trolls, tiny trolls and a Nosy Little Troll who has an amazingly sensitive nose. Worldclass puppeteer Iklooshar Malara returns with a beautiful winter adventure.

Crackers: A Festive Family Farce

Polka Theatre

The Broadway SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com 19 November - 15 January Meet The Crackers. They’re trying to get ready for Christmas Day, but it’s not easy when the family pet shop is going out of business, Great Gran’s expecting a visit from royalty and Napoleon the rat is on the loose. Ages 5-12.

Sleeping Beauty

Colourhouse Theatre

Watermill Way SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk 19 November - 31 December

6 November - 31 December

A spectacular new version of the much-loved classic tale: enter a world of gingerbread villages and snowcapped mountains in this adventure of friendship and family. Ages 7+.

The Pixie and the Pudding Little Angel Theatre

Dagmar Passage N1 2DN www.littleangeltheatre.com

19 November - 29 January

This enchanting musical brings to life a tale from Scandinavian folklore, with puppetry, original music and a sprinkling of pixie magic. Perfect for Christmas. Ages 4-11.

Jack and the Beanstalk Lyric Hammersmith Theatre King Street W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 19 November - 7 January

Join Jack for the climb of a lifetime in the hope of finding fortune. The fairytale delight comes with live music, dance and whip-smart comedy. Ages 6+.

Christmas in the Sunshine Unicorn Theatre

Tooley Street SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com 17 November - 31 December

Christmas Cracker Cadogan Hall

Sloane Terrace SW1X 9DG www.cadoganhall.com 10 December

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s much-loved concert of seasonal classics and sing-along carols features everyone’s favourite carols, festive music and Christmas songs.

Cinderella

Lantern Arts Centre SW20 8RA www.lanternarts.org/cinderella 7-11 December

Only magic can save the day when Cinderella’s stepsisters stop her from going to the Prince’s Ball; but will she leave the palace before the clock strikes twelve - and what happens when her sisters are left all alone in the deep, dark wood? The best loved story of them all is packed with songs, jokes and a coachful of laughs.

My Christmas Orchestral Adventure

Royal Albert Hall

Kensington Gore SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com 11 December

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

New Wimbledon Theatre

The Broadway SW19 1QG https://bit.ly/3fJt1QX 3-31 December

Lee Mead, Ruthie Henshall, Dick & Dom and TikTok sensation Heather Lowther are among the star-studded cast bursting onstage for surely the fairest pantomime of them all! With a magical mirror, seven friendly dwarfs, a beautiful princess, a handsome

The tale of a King and Queen, the beautiful baby Princess Aurora, a jealous Green Fairy and a good Pink Fairy with magical powers. Can the Princess avoid her fate? Will the evil Green Fairy succeed? And can a handsome Prince save the day and finally wake Sleeping Beauty?

Pinocchio

Unicorn Theatre

Tooley Street SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com

This Christmas Elias is going to visit his family in the Caribbean for the first time. He gets to go to the beach, play in the sunshine, and there’ll be a big party. It’s going to be the best. A joyful, warm and festive story of celebrating Christmas and family, wherever you are. Ages 3-6.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Little Angel Theatre

Dagmar Passage N1 2DN www.littleangeltheatre.com 26 November - 29 January

Michael Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure comes to life in this entrancing puppetry production. With original music by Barb Jungr, this production is ideal for brave hunters and bear lovers alike. Ages 3-8.

Calling Santa’s little helpers! Father Christmas has lost his map and needs the young audience to join him on a magical Christmas adventure, with a live orchestra.

Storytime with Father Christmas Royal Albert Hall

Kensington Gore SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com 2-20 December

Step inside a whimsical world where you’ll be greeted by Father Christmas and his merry Head Elf. A charming Christmas storytelling session of Chris Naylor-Ballesteros’ ‘Tiny Reindeer’ will end with a gift for each child.

Dick Whittington

Wandsworth Civic Suite

Wandsworth High Street SW18 2PU www.enablelc.org/panto

Snow White, New Wimbledon Theatre

10-22 December

Join Dick Whittington and his cat on his journey to and through the goldpaved city of London, as he and his cat grow their riches and success through kindness.

Santa’s North Pole Adventure

New Wimbledon Theatre

The Broadway SW19 1QG https://bit.ly/3fDu7h3 14-24 December

With the most magical night of the year fast approaching, join Santa and his elves for a seasonal story of fun, laughter and audience participation. Ages 3-8.

Stick Man

Leicester Square Theatre

Leicester Place WC2H 7BX www.leicestersquaretheatre.com Until 2 January

Freckle Productions’ delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Schefer’s Stick Man is back in town for Christmas! Featuring a trio of top actors, the production is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.

The Snowman

Peacock Theatre

Portugal Street WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com 19 November - 31 December

Based on Raymond Briggs’ beloved children’s book and the subsequent animated film, The Snowman is a timeless story transformed for the stage with dazzling and whimsical sets, dancing and music performed by a live orchestra.

Picture Perfect Christmas

National Gallery

Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN www.ng-london.org

From 26 November

Hendrick Avercamp’s 'Winter Scene' comes to life in a special musical theatre performance for all the family. Expect songs, dancing and plenty of Christmas cheer - picture perfect for a winter’s day.

The Fir Tree

Shakespeare’s Globe

New Globe Walk SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com 15-31 December

In a beautiful wood stands a little Fir Tree. Kept company by woodland creatures, it enjoys a peaceful life. Gather friends and family for a wonderfully festive dose of storytelling, song and hope that will delight all ages.

Jack!

Chicken Shed Theatre 1 Chase Side N14 4PE www.chickenshed.org 23 November - 7 January

A modern take on the fairytale where the outcast Jack takes refuge in arcade games, aiming to complete every level of ‘The Beanstalk’. This unforgettable festive theatrical experience is filled with music and bravado.

The Snowman

Cadogan Hall

Sloane Terrace SW1X 9DQ www.cadoganhall.com 22 December

The much-loved animated film is projected onto a large screen, accompanied by a live orchestral performance of Howard Blake’s score.

The Nutcracker

Royal Albert Hall

Kensington Gore SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com 28-31 December

It’s not Christmas without The Nutcracker! Birmingham Royal Ballet’s festive favourite, featuring Tchaikovsky’s glorious score, is a sparkling festive treat for the whole family.

Nutcracker

London Coliseum Bookings: www.ballet.org.uk/production/nutcra cker

15 December 2022 – 7 January

From the sound of the orchestra tuning up, to the final bows and cheers, a trip to English National

Ballet’s Nutcracker is an unforgettable Christmas treat. More than 100 dancers and musicians bring the festive classic to life with exquisite dancing, beautiful sets and Tchaikovsky’s popular score played live.

A Dickensian Christmas

Cadogan Hall

Sloane Terrace SW1X 9DQ www.cadoganhall.com 24 December

Toast the Christmas spirit with Charles Dickens and celebrate the very best of Victorian carols, classics and a selection of readings from Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Ages 7+.

Jack and the Beanstalk

The London Palladium Argyll Street W1F 7TF www.lwtheatres.co.uk 10 December - 15 January

A giant panto featuring a cast of famous faces: Dawn French, Julian Clary, Alexander Burke, Nigel Havers and more. The show has all the spectacle and magic you’d expect from the UK’s biggest panto, including brand-new lavish sets and costumes.

Mother Goose

Duke of York’s Theatre St Martin’s Lane WC2N 4BG www.thedukeofyorks.com 15 December - 29 January

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

Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Richmond Theatre Little Green TW9 1QH https://bit.ly/3RB0haD 3-31 December

Featuring TV-favourite Matt Baker, this festive extravaganza is packed with riotous comedy, extraordinary special efects, and amazing circus tricks not to be missed!

Stick Man, Leicester Square Theatre

The Fir Tree Shakespeare’s Globe

Picture Perfect Christmas at the National Gallery

The Snowman at The Peacock Theatre

English National Ballet’s Nutcracker

Storytime with Father Christmas, Royal Albert Hall

Cinderella at Lantern Arts Centre

The Nosy Little Troll, Omnibus Theatre

Santa’s North Pole Adventure, NWT

Choosing the right primary school

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 applications. 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?

The catchment area

School catchment area is a key admission criterion for schools. This is generally be 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.

Practicalities are very important too. Is the location of the school convenient? READ MORE

CHRISTMAS

Eco Christmas gift guide

Spread a bit of festive joy by being good to your family and the planet. These gifts for kids and adults will make everyone’s day without costing the earth.

Nature Curious subscription boxes

Explore British wildlife with eco-packaged worksheets & nature prints. £20 per month.

Barekind bamboo socks

Bright and colourful stocking filler helps save the endangered animal on them! £7.50

Kabode Alphabet children’s bedding

Fun collection of 100% certified organic cotton bedding makes learning fun. £44.95

Play Kits

subscription boxes

Sustainable & organic kits support pre-school brain development. From £80

Bake at Home gingerbread people kit

Home-delivered. Delicious ready-made dough, cutter & recipe. £15

DIY lip tint or cheek balm kit

Design all-natural lip tints or cheek balms with gorgeous ingredients. Plastic-free. £19.99

Tartan wool blanket

Made from at least 70% recycled wool plus preloved, recycled fibres. £32

Halo water bottle

Insulated, compact, lightweight, handbag & pocket-friendly. Hydration on the move. From £22

Cashmere fingerless gloves

Super-cosy, one-size, made from discarded cashmere jumpers. £24

Gifts

Festive family city breaks

Our friends at Tested by Tots have identified some of the best family friendly cities to explore with your little ones this Christmas.

Durham

A beautiful, picturesque city & a great Christmas Festival from 2-4 December.

Winchester Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market is inspired by German Christmas markets further afield.

Norwich

Home to the most anticipated Christmas attraction in the UK - The Tunnel of Light!

Nottingham Festive markets from retro style to a sparkling Winter Wonderland!

Exeter Ice rink, Winter Wonderland, carol concerts, pantomimes. Exeter truly embraces Christmas!

Kidderminster Santa Trains to Arley take families to see their favourite characters in pantomime.

Glasgow Festivals, pantos and children’s classic concerts such as The Night Before Christmas.

Cardif

Fantastic Christmas festival with incredible shows at Cardi f Castle.

Belfast Light shows, displays, markets and a Georgian experience. This city goes big!

More Christmas gift ideas

Hot Wheels Car Plate by Munchy Play

My Self-Esteem Journal & My Worry Journal

Rev-up mealtimes with the oficial Hot Wheels™ Car Plate. Race cars around the Hot Wheels™ track, pull stunts and dodge obstacles past the finish line. Designed by a mum, the colourful blue and orange plate makes a fun gift for kids (ages 3+), fussy eaters, and car fans. £16.50.

Girls Support Girls

Girls Support Girls is a small but mighty book bursting with kick-ass quotes, uplifting statements and awesome afirmations – a celebration of female strength and solidarity. There’s nothing more powerful than a strong woman –except for two strong women supporting each other! £6.99.

Two new activity journals inspired by the numberone best-selling children’s mental health title You’re a Star by Poppy O’Neill. Books contain cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques to help children aged 7+ grow in confidence. £7.99 each.

The Book for Badass Women

The Book for Badass Women is a sassy little book filled with empowering tips and quotes. What is a badass woman? Whatever the heck she wants to be!

Dive head first into advice on strengthening your selfconfidence, going after your goals and empowering other women. £9.99