Families London West Issue 104 Nov/Dec 2015

ISSUE 104 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 www.familieswest.co.uk

The CHRISTMAS issue!

• Christmas gift guide • Where to find Santa • Best places for ice skating with the family • Theatre and pantomime listings

Image courtesy of The National Trust. Photographer Warren Page

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news & views

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November/December 2015

news & views Jack Dash and the Magic Feather

Image courtesy of The National Trust. Photographer Warren Page

In this issue: Let the festivities begin.

We have everything you need to plan a really lovely time with your family this Christmas.

There are events galore in our Whats On pages your only dilemma will be choosing between them!

We have even put together a list of ideas for gifts.

We hope you have a very happy and peaceful family time.

Enjoy it - these will be the times your children will look back on and talk about when they have their own families.

We look forward to continue bringing you all the news from West London in 2016!

In this issue News & Views Education & School Open Days Half Term Worshops/Fireworks What’s On in West London Classified Section Like us on Facebook Families West Magazine

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November/December 2015

Girls from the Years 3-6 at Notting Hill and Ealing Junior School and their parents joined Sophie Plowden, Head of Art at Notting Hill and Ealing High School, Ealing who has published a new children’s book, Jack Dash and the Magic Feather.

A carnival atmosphere prevailed at the celebration with food and drink, and entertainment was provided by a magician and face painting

by Sixth Form art students.

The author gave a reading by the author and the book signing queue was possibly the longest they had ever seen. This is the first book in a series to feature Jack, who finds a magic quill pen which makes everything he draws come to life. The only problem is Jack isn’t very good at drawing (not having had Miss Plowden’s excellent teaching!) So, chaos quickly ensues and the scene is set for a series of hilarious adventures. Jack Dash and the Magic Feather by Sophie Plowden is published

by Catnip Publishing Ltd.

West London Tutoring West London Tutoring are a bespoke tutoring service based in Ealing offering high quality tutoring for the 11 Plus. They cater for all aspects of 11 plus tuition, including holiday booster tuition sessions. Tutoring starts from Year 4 onwards for all private secondary schools in London, and all local grammar schools. The service is run by a local primary school teacher with many years’ experience in both state and preparatory schools. She has a degree, PGCE and Masters (MA) of Teaching from the Institute of Education.

Her Masters dissertation specialised in teaching creative writing to boys in Key Stage 2. She currently works as a specialist teacher in an excellent preparatory school in West London, specialising in teaching English, maths and drama in years 4, 5 and 6. She also runs Gifted and Talented writing courses. www.westlondontutoring.co.uk

Angels Grant School of Dance The Angela Grant School of Dance first opened in West London in 2009 and has been going strong ever since. The school currently operates at various studios and halls in East Acton, Hammersmith and Chiswick, as well as local schools and clubs. The classes are held after school during term-time weeks with the aim of having fun, staying healthy and learning all the wonderful graces that come from ballet.

The school principal, Angela Grant is trained and authorised by the Royal Academy of Dance and most of the students take RAD exams each year as their skills and repertoire increase.

Students also have the choice to take part in the school shows and dance competitions.

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news & views Pines and Needles Christmas trees Now here’s a service that’s hard to beat. Pines and Needles provide trees of great quality, delivered straight to your door, fresh from their family farm. Choose from a selection of trees and varieties from small potted trees to twenty footers! You can also order stands, lights, decorations and a variety of greenery from them including wreaths and garlands, swags, mistletoe and holly. The best bit? - They even offer a decoration service for your tree with stands and lights in a colour scheme of your choice. Their friendly delivery people also come in kilts and Santa hats (keeping up with their Scottish heritage!) Then once the big day is over, and you can finally put your feet up, they’ll send someone to collect the tree, so your feet can stay up! Pines & Needles special team deliver to most areas within the M25 and if you live outside of their reach, courier delivery nationwide.

Find out more on: www.pinesandneedles.com 020 3384 9420.

Pines and Needles Top Tips for toddler-proof trees 1. Choose the right tree - Nordman Fir and Frazer Fir are both soft to the touch and have excellent needle retention.

Avoid Spruce trees as they have thousands of tiny, sharp needles which fall off the tree as it dries.

2. Consider raising the tree on a table - depending on your ceiling size a 4ft (1.2m) to 6ft (1.8m) tree would fit comfortably.

3. Ensure the tree is in a secure stand - the best stands have a large surface area, and grip the tree from at least three angles with a minimum 2 cm diameter bolt. Pot grown trees may need to be re-potted before being decorated.

4. Use LED lights - they are better for the environment, and far more robust than fairy lights with bulbs. Moreover if one LED bulb breaks, the others will continue to work. They can be used inside and outside, and do not overheat.

5. Keep glass decorations out of reach - we suggest using fabric or shatter proof baubles anywhere within toddlers' reach. There are stunning ranges of birds, baubles and festive floristry that can be used to decorate the tree and are hard for toddlers to break.

6. Securely fit all decorations to the tree - use metal decoration hooks and carefully twist them onto the tree branches and decorations so they withstand curious little fingers!

7. Create a festive barrier from the tree - this is maybe wishful thinking, but lots of present boxes around the tree could act as a barrier protecting the tree.

8. Involve the little ones in the decorating - so they understand the purpose of the tree and the delicacy of the decorations.

9. Have a separate mini tree and baubles especially for them to play with!

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A gift that lasts….

Instead of buying more plastic toys that children will tire of, how about buying them a place at a Jigsaw Performing Arts school? Jigsaw provides Performing Arts classes for 3-18 year olds - a great way to build confidence, learn new skills and make lots of new friends! You’ll be purchasing that special child, 11 weeks of Performing Arts fun! If you book a place and pay in full before Christmas then you will also be given a free T-Shirt (Worth £10) that you can wrap up along with the voucher. Call them on: 020 8447 4530 and quote ‘FAMILIES GIFT’ to book a place at your nearest Jigsaw School. www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

FREE TOYS FOR YOUR LOCAL TOY LIBRARY Bizzy Bitz is a relatively new construction toy system.

In order to celebrate the launch of their new clear instruction sheets, Bizzy Bitz is donating hundreds of boxes of 350 pieces of their building blocks to Toy Libraries around the country.

If you are a mum who borrows toys from a Toy Library and would like your child to have a play with Bizzy Bitz, ask them to contact them at: info@bizzy-bitz.com and it will be their pleasure to send them a box (if they have not yet received one).

Beautiful brooches raise money for Brain Tumor Research Brain Tumour Research’s Limited Edition brooches are the perfect stocking filler! Celebrated Milliners Rachel Trevor Morgan and Vivien Sheriff are among those who have collaborated with the charity to produce these gorgeous brooches in order to raise funds for their annual Wear A Hat Day. Suggested donation £10.

For more info please visit: www.braintumourresearch.org or call 01296 733011 to secure yours today!

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

November/December 2015

news & views nurturing every step Baby Massage From 6 weeks to crawling Children’s Yoga Adventures For ages 2+

Call Clare on 07528 688 734 www.milestonesbabymassage.com

Cheddar Deli have recently celebrated their 4th Birthday on Northfield Avenue and now with their exciting additions, they are ready to help you celebrate Christmas in style!

Their brand new maturing room lets them age their cheddars perfectly broadening their already extensive range of different cheeses available.

Pick up a gift or a treat for yourself from their handpicked selection of craft beers, wines and spirits, each chosen by themselves to compliment your Christmas enjoyment.

You’ll be impressed by their cured and cooked meats a welcome alternative to cold turkey sandwiches!

Pop instore and see their

knowledgeable staff who will be happy to help. They can give you information about fondue hire, help put together the perfect cheeseboard while you wait and even put together a full gift hamper for you. If time is short, you can order ahead instore or online for quick collection.

Their sensational £5 and £10 cheese deals are still flying off the shelves every Saturday so don’t miss out!

Let them help you make your Christmas a special one. www.cheddardeli.co.uk Or call: 0208 810 0690.

November/December 2015

Elves & Ovens is a children’s party catering company providing delicious, home-made food and treats for unforgettable parties to children and adults of all ages.

Food Boxes | Proper Tea Party Food Grown Up Food Balloons | Little Furniture Entertainers | Staff Party Bags And More

Call: +44 2089617477 www.elvesandovens.com

To advertise in the News & Views section please contact us at: editor@familieswest.co.uk

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education By Justine Crow How to read with your child and “Not now, darling...” is the plaintive refrain from parents at bedtime, in the library, on the bus or any moment that you have had the audacity to put your feet up for five minutes.

Your dearest progeny plonks him or herself down beside you with a picture book that you have already read aloud a hundred times.

Recently, when sorting junk in the garage I came across ‘A Squash and a Squeeze’ by Julia Donaldson and I realised that I could still recite every line, years after I had read it with my child.

How can we ensure we are fresh and eager each time our loved one wants to share their reading? And given that we know that it is not only vital for children’s intellectual development to read together

but that it also benefits our own inner lives, what should we do to get better at it? Here are ten ways to truly enjoy reading with your little one.

1. Accept and celebrate the knowledge that reading with your child is part of your job description as a parent. It is there alongside cuddler, sleeptrainer and bottom wiper. The more you do it, the easier it becomes. Soon, you will be a natural performer.

2. When they are babies, choose books YOU like to read to them. They are too small to understand much but the cadence of your voice gives them comfort. You could read a cookbook aloud and they’ll be content.

3. When they are toddlers,

Durston House 12 Castlebar Road · London W5 2DR

A leading West London Prep School for Boys

REALLY enjoy it!

reading together enables bonding but it also can act as an incentive: if you stay in your bed ALL night, you can get into my bed in the morning for a story, how’s that?

4. The concept of ‘making time’ is an impossible ideal. We can’t magic up extra minutes to read but we can use the moments we already have. Lots of pictures are the best way to keep a little one on the potty; submergible bath books enable hair-washing and nit-checking too. What a bonus!

5. Keep books for daytime reading on the lowest shelf and allow them to select the book they want, no matter how many times it has been shared. If you really can’t stand it another time, have a bit of fun; read it backwards, or upside down, or in gobbledygook. Your child will soon insist it is done the right way up and before you know it, they will be reading it to you!

6. Books without text such as Clown by Quentin Blake are brilliant for sharing - encourage your toddler to tell you what is happening. Talk about what you both see.

A great spirit of community. . . a real pride in achievement Visit our website www.durstonhouse.org Send for an Information Pack Or come to see us contact Mrs Caroline Ferns (Registrar) telephone 020 8991 6532 email info@durstonhouse.org Boys Prep School 4-13 years · Registered Charity No. 294670

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7. At the library, put your phone away and suggest that each of you dig out a title. Your youngster will often pick one they already have at home - but it doesn’t matter, because your special task is to discover one they’ve never seen before.

Just think how much more enthusiastic you will be to open it up.

8. When shopping together, don’t expect a young child to choose the ‘right’ book. You decide what to buy while your child rummages through the books on the play-table. Then read one together before you leave. Once they can actually read, allow them to choose their own books.

9. Books for bedtime should be chosen by you and kept higher up on the shelves. Make this a time for your child to listen and be calm and contented though questions should be answered. Then, it’s lights out!

10. As they grow older, you can be more adventurous and find longer stories, like fairy tales.

Soon, you can introduce to them the novels you loved as a child. Perhaps they will want to continue reading a particular chapter book alone but they will always remember the sense of an experienced shared.

Justine Crow is the author of ‘The Little Book of Nits’ published

by Bloomsbury. Parent of three, she owns her own bookshop with her partner, The Bookseller Crow on Hill, and is a qualified swimming teacher. And in what little spare time she has, Justine also runs gastronomic writing retreat courses in France and is the food critic of ‘The Transmitter’.

November/December 2015

Open Days Autumn 2015 Wednesday 4 November at 1.15pm Monday 16 November at 1.15pm Wednesday 25 November at 1.15pm

November/December 2015

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Families West Christmas Gift Guide Stuck for ideas? Let us give you some suggestions…

For Babies 1. Glass Christmas Angel Bauble £10 My 1st Years With a beautiful angel inside, this glass bauble is a great gift for baby’s first Christmas.

Engraved with a message over three lines with up to 20 characters on each line.

2. Christmas Pudding Leggings £11 Blade and Rose How cute will your baby look crawling around on Christmas Day in these seasonal striped leggings with their cheeky Christmas pudding on the tush. They’re made from, soft fabric with a thick waistband for comfort and you can add matching socks, a bandana bib and a hat.

3. Pirate Ship Personalised illuminated Canvas from £55.95 Illuminated Canvas A picture for your baby’s nursery wall but with a twist; not only can you have your child’s name on the canvas but it lights up, showing an illuminated window in the ship and on the masts.

5. My Wondercube £17.99 My Wondercube This fabric cube toy was invented by a mum inspired by how fascinated her baby was with a box of tissues.

Inside the bright colourful organic cotton cube are soft squares that your child can pull out of the cube, pull apart, stick back together and push back inside. Each square has a squeak or a crinkle or a rustle and it’s machine washable too.

9. Personalised Wooden Star £9.50 Not On The High Street A lovely keepsake, this wooden star can be personalized with a baby’s name and birth date or any characters you like to celebrate his first Christmas. It is finished with beeswax and arrives in an organza bag.

6. Apptivity iPad Case £32.99 Fisher Price There are so many apps for babies now to educate, fascinate and soothe but the last thing you want is sticky fingers and drool all across your iPad. Step forward the Apptivity case, which covers your pad and offers chunky handles for your baby to hold, as well as three colourful rings.

7. Five Piece Bath Fun Toy £12.99 Brother Max Bath time can always be fun with this neat set of bath toys that not only amuse your baby but help to get her clean too. There’s a sprinkler scoop with a chunky colourful handle, a wash mit with a shaker in the middle, a brush to practice hair grooming, a rattle and a wearable wrist toy. They are all BPA, PVC and phthalate free.

4. Maya Organic Peppy Five Stackers £25.95 Igloo Kids These stacking toys are hand made from quality wood and finished with child-safe paint and lacquer. Sweet to look at, your baby will also enjoy taking the stacks apart and gradually learning to put them together again.

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8. Octotunes £17.99 Lamaze Not just a colourful toy, this is also educational as every time your baby plays with one of the Octopus’ legs, it plays a different note. It’s designed to stimulate your baby’s imagination and to help with developing motor skills. It comes with a song book and it has a pleasant vanilla perfume.

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10. Newborn Star Gift Set £24 JoJo Maman Bébé For any baby born in 2015, this is the perfect gift set and the stars are a nice nod to the Christmas season if you don’t want red and green everywhere! The set comprises of an embroidered sleepsuit with matching star hat and a JoJo bunny that will be treasured all through childhood. It comes in a gift box and is suitable for babies from newborn to three months.

To promote YOUR business or products in Families West magazine please contact us at: familieswest@yahoo.co.uk

November/December 2015

For Children 1. Magic Elf Door £20 The Magic Door Store Creating a whole world of imagination and anticipation, these sweet doors can be put at the bottom of a wall or even on a tree in the garden. Your child will love leaving little gifts for the Elf or Fairy and who knows - they may even get a response!

2. Bon Bon Bear £30 Hamleys Every child needs a teddy as a best friend, so treat your little one to a bear from the World’s most famous toy shop. Bon Bon has glossy cream fur, a hand-embroidered face and the Hameys name embroidered on the sole of one foot. For Christmas, he also sports a fetching red bow tie.

3. Personalised Xmas Sack £22 Harrow and Green For when a stocking just won’t do, these quality hessian sacks can be personalized with your child’s name and left under the tree on Christmas Eve. It has stenciled wording on it with “Delivery Date 25th December” as a reminder to Santa.

4. Sudokube £5.95 Prezzybox If you used to love the Rubik’s cube, this is a great new take on the classic game that’s good for maths-minded kids. The idea is to get all the numbers form one to nine on each and every side of the cube.

If nothing else, it will keep the kids quiet until lunch is ready.

5. Constructive Eating Cutlery Set £14 The Great Gift Company Fussy eater? You’ll soon find your child likes to eat when you encourage them to play with their food! There’s a fork shaped like - of course - a forklift, a spoon that’s a front-loader truck and then there’s a bulldozer to help your child push food onto the fork or spoon. Just add truck noises!

6. Superman Cape Towel £15 Debenhams Bathtime refusals? With this clever super hero towel, your little one can ‘fly’ to the bathroom and then save the world once they’re clean again. This is a fluffy and soft towel with Velcro tabs that’s perfect for wrapping him/her up for cuddles after bath time is over.

8. Style One Direction £5.95 Prezzybox If your child is a huge Directioneer, he or she can dress up the boys from the band with this tongue-in-cheek set. Whoever is their favourite, they’re all here just waiting for you to style them. There’s also an activity book packed with band facts and stickers.

9. Rainbow In My Room Nightlight £25 Debenhams This coloured projector sends a rainbow onto the wall or ceiling of your child’s room and is great if your child is a little scared of the dark. It has two modes, a fully beamed rainbow or a more soothing glow that fades in and out. It has an auto shut off feature and is battery powered.

10. Colour Your Own Palace £13.99 Calafant If you child would love to live in a palace and princes costumes litter her floor, this is a great way for her to play at make believe. The large and strong cardboard palace is assembled without glue or scissors and can be decorated with coloured pens, pencils, glitter - anything they like.

7. Bath Bomb Factory £12.99 Argos There are several Wild Science kits and this one will create a beautiful bathtime.

With all the ingredients to make scented, fizzing bath bombs, it sparks your child’s interest in science too. In fact, it support Key Stage Two and there aren’t many bath products that can make that claim.

Our Christmas Gift Guide listings continue on page 10

November/December 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Christmas Gift Guide continued For Mums 1. Mini Biscuit Selection £30 Biscuiteers With colourful snowmen, a tree and reindeer, this is a sweet and thoughtful gift for a busy mum who may not have much time to give herself a treat.

4. Fail-Safe Fondant Dessert Kit £19.99 Lakeland Make up to six individual puddings with light, fluffy chocolate sponge on the outside and a gooey, melting chocolate middle. With clear instructions and easy-release silicone moulds, it’s easy to make a decadent dessert just like Nigella.

the inside of any bag. There’s even a clip for your keys and it’s machine washable.

2. Luxury Mummy Spa Kit £39.99 Love Boo A great gift for mums, this is the ultimate home pampering kit. With three products inside - Bosom Buddy, Body Wash and Miracle Oil, they will leave skin glowing and firmed and they can help prevent stretch marks. They are safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

3. Mini Indoor Herb Garden £24.95 Gifts Direct With the increase in popularity of gardening and cookery programmes on the television, this sweet little garden will help you create your very own tiny allotment. It comes with three tiny plant pots with drainage holes that fit neatly in the fence. Inside the shed are tiny snippers, soil pellets and a packet of three kinds of seeds; coriander, basil and oregano. The shed can be used to store more seeds for next time.

5. The Giant Stocking £15 Prestat The best Christmas stocking for mum, this is packed with 12 delicious hand made truffle chocolates, one for each of the twelve days of Christmas. There are three velvety chocolate truffles, three rich, dark truffles, three snowy white truffles and three of the luxury brand’s award winning sea salt caramel truffles, all wrapped in rich, dark chocolate.

8. Personalised Heart Bracelet £29 Merci Maman When you’re a mother, it’s lovely to have reminders of your children and this bracelet keeps your little ones close at all times. With a quality leather wrist strap, you can add hearts or other charms with your children’s names on them, engraved in silver.

9. Miniature Bath Oil Collection £39 Aromatherapy Associates A great gift if you’re not sure if the woman in your life needs to relax or be invigorated, these tiny bath oil phials have a range of fragrances to promote good sleep, energise, relax or help you to de-stress! .

6. Classic Coffret of Diptyque Candles £60 Space NK This is a luxurious set of candles and though there are cheaper brands, the intense perfume of these lasts well and is good value for money. There’s Figuier, the scent of fig wood, Baies which has bouquets of roses and blackcurrant leaves and Roses, smelling like a freshly picked bouquet.

10. Portable Phone Charger £19.99 Anker Easy to pop into a pocket or bag, this tiny charger will hold a full phone’s worth of charge to use just when you need it. Then simply re-charge with a USB plugged into your computer.

It comes in several colours.

7. Handbag Organiser £12.99 Periea So you have more than one handbag and when you want to swap quickly from one to the other, it’s such a chore swapping over all the things you just can’t do without.

But no more! This handy organiser has 11 pockets to keep everything in just the right place and it’s black, so will suit

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November/December 2015

For Dads

1. Car Driving Day from £495 Virgin Experience Days If you have a special gift in mind and he’s a car lover, what better way to say you love him than with a car driving experience that will blow his mind? He can take a Ferrari or Lamborghini around a race track with expert tuition for the right speed and turning point.

2. Haig Club Scotch Whisky £44.95 Haig If he fancies himself as a David Beckham type, this will be his tipple of choice. From Scotland’s oldest whisky distillery, this is smooth and pleasing on the pallatte and looks great too.

3. Coffee Subscription £7.95 per month Kopi For just £7.95 per month, your coffee lover can receive a little shot of caffeine kindness to your door. Sourcing only from small-scale farmers and including a tasting booklet, this is an education in coffee.

4. Laptop Bag £55 Herschel He can look smart but still hip with this soft-sided messenger bag that’s just the right size for a laptop. It has the Herschel signature striped lining and has a padded section for any laptop up to 13 inches. The shoulder strap is padded for comfort and can be removed.

November/December 2015

8. A Gentleman’s Guide to Beard and Moustache Management £6.95

By Chris Martin If he’s gone all trendy Hoxton Man with a bushy beard and tufty moustache, make sure he knows how to groom with this tongue-in-cheek book.

It does actually have some great tips on trimming, waxing and maintaining facial fuzz as well as a guide to famous hair celebrities from Marx to Des Lynam!

9. Self Stirring Mug £9.95 Prezzybox For the man who has everything - or the lazy - this has a little switch that, when flipped, will stir the contents of this mug. Just insert batteries. Just don’t put it in the microwave or dishwasher!

5. Leather And Brass Book Cover iPad Case £33.95 Zazzle If you love old leather bound books and the look of PaperBlanks notebooks, this iPad case is great.

In several different designs these are custom made with premium book cloth and finished with a glossy laminate.

They hold the iPad securely and have rubberized edges so it doesn’t slip.

10. Personalised heart tray and Love Heart Sweets £14.95 The Gift Experience Nothing says I Love You quite like Love Heart sweets.

Remember slipping them to your crush when you were at school? This tray has space for your personalised message that will be revealed as the sweets are eaten.

6. Fitbit Charge Large Activity Tracker £84.99 If he’s trying to get fit, this will help keep track of activity and calories. On a chunky wristband this tracks steps taken, distance travelled, calories burned, floors climbed and active minutes.

It even helps monitor your sleep patterns.

7. CoolTec Shaver £99.99 Braun With an aluminium bar built into its head, this will not heat up as you shave, minimising redness and itching.

Shaves closely and best of all it’s water proof up to 5m though why you’d shave under water is beyond us!

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Where to find Santa...

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND W2 2UH www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com 20 Nov - 3 Jan Set across 20 acres of Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland has the UK's biggest outdoor ice rink, a giant observation wheel, funfair and thrill rides, Zippos Circus and Cirque Beserk, a Bavarian Village, traditional Christmas market and festive food and drink. Santa Land is a magical experience with rides, eateries and Santa himself! Santa opens his grotto every day from 10am to 6pm. Entry is free and Santa will have a gift for children who've been good! Visit Santa's Toy Factory fun house where Santa and his elves are making gifts ready for the big day, Winter Wonderland is open 10am-10pm daily, admission free. Skating and show tickets can be bought in advance.

WESTFIELD LONDON W12 7GF http://uk.westfield.com/london/news-and-events 9 Nov - 24 Dec Adventure to Santa’s Grotto. You and your family will be whisked away on a fun, interactive adventure to visit Santa with help from Shrek and Donkey. The magical, personalised journey complete with a 4D cinematic sleigh ride which will transport you through the skies to Santa’s workshop in the North Pole.

Each child will have the chance to speak with Santa and receive a gift.

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN W12 7LJ www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 6 Dec Under the sparkling chandeliers of Bush Hall, families can enjoy Christmas carols, performances and readings by children and artists and expect an appearance from You Know Who... 6pm.

Adults £7, Children £6. Book in advance.

KEW GARDENS TW9 3AB www.kew.org/christmas 25 Nov - 2 Jan The playful atmosphere of the White Peaks welcomes you with a Victorian carousel, helterskelter and other family rides and that is also where Father Christmas and his elves will be welcoming little ones. Combine this with visiting the new winter trail, a one-mile sparkling path winding its way through the world-famous botanic gardens in a magical after-dark experience, with dancing illuminated fountains and glowing waterside reflections, a Choir of Holly Bushes, Tunnel of Lights and scented Fire Garden.

Trail open from 5-10pm with entry by timed ticket, rides operate from 5-9.30pm, £2 per ride.

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ODDS FARM PARK HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk 21-22 Nov, daily from 28 Nov-24 Dec The Magic of Christmas. Entering a cosy Grotto via a sparkling Woodland Walkway, children will meet the Elves and of course Father Christmas himself, before exchanging a magical Golden Ticket for something very special in the Elves’ Teddy-Tastic Workshop. Combined with plenty of Christmas Lambs to meet and Crazy Entertainers every weekend in December and daily during the Christmas Holidays until 4 Jan, there’s stacks of festive fun for the whole family. £7.95 per child.

WWT LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE SW13 9WT www.wwt.org.uk/london 5, 6 Dec Handsome huskies will be ready and waiting to take children for a spin. The dogs are also available for photo opportunities but if it's not festive enough until you've seen the man himself, then head to the northern pine forest to meet Santa in his cosy grotto. Children can also take a donkey ride; it will make a great photograph with the donkeys dressed up in their Christmas finery.

Santa tickets £6 per child including a goody bag, husky and donkey sleigh rides are free with admission.

HAMLEYS W1B 5BT www.hamleys.com 21 Nov-24 Dec How about having breakfast, brunch, lunch or high tea with Father Christmas? Enjoy a scrumptious feast, meet the magical elves, play games, write a Christmas wish list and hear all about Santa's enchanting life in Lapland. Then when it's time for Father Christmas to leave, his special guests will receive a small gift to take home. Suitable for children aged 2-9, book first.

HARRODS SW1X 7XL www.harrods.com/grotto 6 Nov-24 Dec Whether marking a child's first Christmas or honouring a family tradition, a visit to The Harrods Christmas Grotto is the perfect way to start the festive season. From £10.

DUKE OF YORK SQUARE SW3 4LY www.dukeofyorksquare.com 7 Nov-24 Dec Santa will touch down in his reindeer driven sleigh to turn on our Christmas lights on 7 Nov and take up residence in his famous Duke of York Square Grotto. Santa’s elves are on a quest to find a child to bring Santa’s magic to life and to give the event that extra special sparkle - can you help?

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

Where’s Santa in and around West London this Christmas?

Festive treats include Victorian carts with toffee apples and roasted chestnuts, face-painting, meet real-life reindeer, and visit Santa in his grotto, carols and more.

RAINFOREST CAFÉ W1D 7EU www.therainforestcafe.co.uk Weekends from 14 Nov and daily from 30 Nov Who knew Father Christmas hung out in the rainforest but there he is in his snowy grotto. Children will receive a personalised invitation along with a warm welcome from his elves, before being ushered into the grotto where they'll meet the man in person. The package includes a children's two course meal and drink and a personalised meeting with Father Christmas. £35 per child, pre-booking recommended.

FULHAM PALACE SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org 6, 12, 13 Dec Father Christmas is back!

Find him in the Tudor Great Hall by a roaring fire ready to hear all of your Christmas wishes. With the Christmas tree, elves' gift wrapping station, Father Christmas's desk and the naughty and nice list all on display, this is a very special and atmospheric experience. £11 per child, booking essential.

OSTERLEY PARK AND HOUSE TW7 4RB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park/ things-to-see-and-do/events 5, 6, 12, 13 Dec Book your visit to Father Christmas' grotto and bring the whole family to explore the candlelit house. Join Osterley's Georgian residents the Child Family as they prepare for Christmas with their household with games, dancing and crafts. Admission fee plus £5 to see Father Christmas, includes gift.

SYON PARK GARDEN CENTRE TW8 8JG www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk/ breakfast-and-tea-with-father-christmas 14-24 Dec Have breakfast or tea with Father Christmas.

Enjoy a delicious, freshly-prepared breakfast or tea and watch the excitement build until everyone joins in to help the elves welcome Father Christmas. Meet Father Christmas and choose your own present, enjoy delicious food and decorate a Christmas cookie. £9.99 per child.

INTU UXBRIDGE SHOPPING CENTRE UB8 1LA http://intu.co.uk/uxbridge/events 2-24 Dec Santa and friends will be located in the grotto at the Lower Mall outside Debenhams from 10am4pm. £1 per child including a gift from Santa.

BATTERSEA PARK ZOO SW11 4NJ www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk 5-6, 12-13 and 18-24 Dec Come and see Santa in his grotto, £6 to see Santa, plus entrance fee. Includes a small gift and a picture, plus a drink and Christmas treat.

Bookable in advance by ringing the zoo or just turn up.

Fun Christmas Stocking search throughout the zoo from 5 to 24 December.

ME17 1PL SW11 4NJ www.leeds-castle.co.uk 5 Dec-3 Jan The magic of Christmas descends upon the entire Leeds Castle Estate to celebrate the traditions of the festive season. Look out for the reindeer and birds of prey and visit the Christmas market where children can ride the carousel or ferris wheel with spectacular views of the castle. Father Christmas will be visiting every weekend and 19-23 Dec. The Christmas Elves are around to welcome children before they enter the grotto for a chat and to receive a special gift. £13 per child which includes a gift.

November/December 2015

dance & performing arts

From Baby to Ballerina

Classes for Boys and Girls aged 21/2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances

Classes held in: Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush and South Kensington

November/December 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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what’s on DIARY DATES 13 Nov CHILDREN IN NEED 135nearlynew@gmail.com 14, 15 Nov INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS SHOW Meet key admissions teams, speak with heads, enquire about entry requirements at all stages, explore scholarships and bursaries for 200 UK independent schools.

Takes place in Battersea. www.schoolsshow.co.uk 15 Nov LORD MAYOR’S SHOW AND FIREWORKS Spectacular traditional parade to welcome the new Lord Mayor with a firework display in the evening (5.15pm).

Procession of music, dance, acrobatics, colourful costumes and horses from Bank to Aldwych from 11am2.30am. www.lordmayorsshow.london 15 Nov REGENT STREET CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Regent Street gets its usual Christmas makeover with garlands of lights down the length of the road.

The switch-on event promises celebrity appearances, family activities and a fireworks display. It will be a a traffic-free day of Christmas shopping. Activities from 12 noon followed by a star-studded Christmas show.

17 Nov THE RUGBY PORTOBELLO TRUST CHRISTMAS MARKET at the 20th Century Theatre, Notting Hill. Along with stalls selling stationery, children's toys, handmade Christmas wreaths and fair-trade jewellery, book signings by local authors will be taking place. www.rugbyportobello.org.uk 26 Nov CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR AT EALING BROADWAY SHOPPING CENTRE Magical Christmas launch event from 2pm. www.ealingbroadwayshopping.co.uk/content/christmasspectacular 29 Nov KENSINGTON MUMS CHRISTMAS FAMILY FAIR Children’s clothing, toys, and gifts as well as pamper corner just for Mums. Children’s entertainers. food and drinks, and lots of festive fun. 10am-6pm at Kensington Town Hall, Hornton Street W8 7NX. Free entry. www.kensingtonmums.co.uk/kmblog/ 28 Nov NOTTING HILL AND EALING HIGH SCHOOL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR 12-3.30pm at 2,Cleveland Road,Ealing, London W13 8AX. Great fun for all the family.

29 Nov LIGHT UP THE LANE, PITSHANGER a celebration of shopping, socialising, amusements, food, song and dance for the local community. Most of the

shops in the Lane stay open, selling mince pies, mulled wine, samosas, candy floss and anything else that will raise money for charitable causes. Pitshanger Lane is closed to traffic and there are stalls and entertainment up and down the Lane. 4pm onwards. www.pitshanger.org.uk/events/light-up-the-lane 5 Dec EALING 135 CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR Taking place at Kingsdown Methodist Church, Northfields Avenue, W13. £1 entry (£2 per family). 10am-1pm. Gifts, crafts, refreshments, and a visit from Santa. www.ealing135.org.uk/events/fairs WORKSHOPS FOR CHILDREN 14, 18, 21 Dec, 4 Jan CRAFT ACTIVITY SESSIONS Fun and creative session, fully supervised and non messy.

Recommended for age 6+. 10.15am-4.15pm.

Call Clare McKnight 020 8992 3767. fimofun@tiscali.co.uk www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk 22 Dec HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS MUSICAL THEATRE For ages 5-11, at Bush Hall, London W12. www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk/whats-on

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk The Bank of England Museum tells the story of the Bank of England from its foundation in 1694 to its role today as the UK's central bank. Examine intricately designed banknotes, feel the weight of a genuine gold bar and see the pikes and muskets that were once used to defend the Bank. Children's activity sheets provide fun for younger visitors.

14 Nov LORD MAYOR’S SHOW Step into the world of Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad. Professional face painters will transform young visitors into one of the well-known characters from ‘The Wind in the Willows’ by Kenneth Grahame, a former Secretary of the Bank of England.

11am-5pm.

21- 24, 29, 30, 31 Dec SPARKLING SILVER, GLITTERING GOLD Discover the collection of glittering silver objects and the allure of the gold on display, and then get creative and decorate a gold bar money box to take home. 10am - 4:30pm BRITISH MUSEUM WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org Until 31 Jan CELTS-ART AND IDENTITY A vast collection of objects that provide clues to and raise questions about Celtic identity.

DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety of themes. Free, 11am-4pm, for ages 7+ (unless stated).

See What’s on widget online for details.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 5 Dec GARLANDS AND HOLLY WREATHS Join artist Daniel Lehan to discover the Christmas traditions of the Foundling Hospital. Inspired by the past, create evergreen wreaths and garlands to bring colour and life into your home during the winter months. 10.30am-4.30pm, free.

For age 5+

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

family workshops AT FULHAM PALACE

19 Nov, 17 Dec BACH TO BABY An innovative classical babies’ concert created by mum and pianist, Miaomiao Yu, inspired by Handel.

10.30-11.30am, adults £10, children free.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk EXHIBITIONS: HOLOCAUST Film, photographs and a large number of rare artefacts document the history of the Nazi persecution of the Jews and other groups before and during the Second World War. For ages 14+ A FAMILY IN WARTIME Explores the lives of William and Alice Allpress and their ten children and what life in London was like during the war.

SECRET WAR The clandestine world of espionage, covert operations and the work of Britain’s Special Forces.

FIRST WORLD WAR Discover the story of the war Over 1,300 objects including weapons, uniforms, diaries, letters and souvenirs, will be on display as well as a recreated trench with periscopes and a dug-out, along with a soundscape and projection will evoke what daily life was like for the troops.

Every Sun in Nov, 6, 13 Dec OBJECT CONVERSATIONS New immersive object handling sessions where families can explore objects from the collections- feel the weight of a shrapnel piece from the First World War and come to grips with real objects.

Drop-in, free, for all ages. 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm.

15, 22, 29 Nov, 6, 13 Dec CREATIVE RESPONSE Art activities based on themes featured in atrium and galleries. Drop-in, free, for all ages. 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm.

20–23 and 27–31 Dec ART WORKSHOP: A WARTIME CHRISTMAS Help decorate the Christmas wreath, and learn about how people celebrated Christmas on the Home Front. Have a go at making your own charm for the wreath, inspired by the lucky numbers, coins and love hearts that featured in lucky charms and tokens given as presents during the First World War. 11am - 12.30pm, 2 - 4pm NATIONAL GALLERY WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm.

MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For children aged 25. Sundays 10.30-11am and 11.30am-12pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day.

DRAWING SUNDAY Explore gallery paintings as inspiration for your art. For ages 5-11. Sundays 11am and 2pm. Drop-in.

15 Nov, 20 Dec CHANGING PERSPECTIVES Discover how to draw a perspective landscape using the shapes and lines in Hobbema’s famous Avenue of Middelharnis.

November/December 2015

6 Dec HOW’S MY HALO Create your own magnificent halo inspired by the radiant crowns found in the paintings.

STUDIO SUNDAYS are hands-on workshops that start in the Gallery, followed by a studio session (11am and 2pm).

22 Nov DREAM DESIGNS Be inspired by Raphael’s dreaming knight and design your own pillowcase to inspire your dreams.

29 Nov, 27 Dec FAMILY TRAIL DAY 13 Dec FACE TO FACE Explore the play between the 2D and 3D faces in Titian's Portrait of a Lady and enjoy creating a multi-dimensional portrait.

FAMILY WALK AND TALK Free family walk and talk to bring paintings alive. For all ages, 12.30-1.30pm.

6 Dec WINTER WONDERLAND 11, 18 Nov, 2 Dec WELCOME WEDNESDAYS Early years activities and bring paintings to life through interactive music, storytelling, art and messy play activities. Every Wednesday, 10.30 and 11.30am for walkers under age five, 1pm for sitting babies to walkers.

14 Nov LIGHTING UP THE DARKNESS FAMILY FESTIVAL Celebrating Diwali and the different forms of light found in the Gallery's paintings. Activities include making Rangoli patterns inspired by Turner at 10.30am and 1.30pm, making huge lanterns and a pilgrim puppet to bring light to the Gallery at 11am and 2pm, traditional Indian music and dance performances at 11am, 12.15, 1.30 and 2.45pm and a musical magic carpets session for under 5s at 10.30 and 11.30am, 2 and 3 pm.

HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS 28-30 Dec RINGING BELL TOWERS Investigate the architecture painted in Canaletto's Stonemason's Yard and construct a model bell tower, complete with ringing bells.

11am and 2pm for all ages.

28 Dec MESSY MONDAYS: EXPLORING THE STUDIO Drop-in session for children under 5 years.

Become a mini artist by exploring materials and mark making in a tactile environment inspired by a painting.

10.30am-1pm and 1.30-3pm.

29 Dec TALKING TUESDAYS – INVESTIGATING PAINTINGS Bringing a painting to life through singing, talking and playing. For under 5s. 10.30am-1pm and 1.30-3pm.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Every weekend INVESTIGATE FOR FAMILIES Get a feel for how scientists work by having a go yourself.

Come and explore hundreds of real nature specimens that form the evidence Museum scientists use in their daily work. Drop-in, 11am-5pm.

14 Nov, 12 Dec ANIMAL VISION A show which features live animals, reveals a world only visible to certain reptiles and invertebrates. See how adaptations allow them to escape predators and locate prey. 10.30am for age 7+ 15 Nov, 5, 13 Dec DINO SCENE INVESTIGATION Uncover a replica dinosaur skull.

15 Nov, 13 Dec MARY ANNING Meet Mary Anning, a pioneering fossil hunter from 19th century. 11.30am and 2pm.

5 Dec, 8 Jan DINO SNORES Ever wondered what goes on at the Natural History Museum at night? 7 - 11 years. 7pm till morning, torchlit trails through the museum, live animal shows and more. For ages 7-11.

28 Nov CHARLES DARWIN Meet Charles Darwin, he will share his collection of beetles and tell you his famous theory of evolution.

29 Nov LITTLE RED HEN Enjoy the popular story of the Little Red Hen and her lazy friends who won't help with grain planting and harvesting, but then want to share in the resulting bread. 12 and 1.30pm, for under 7s.

November/December 2015

1 Dec HANDS ON NATURE- DINOSAURS Handle real fossil specimens and learn how to identify them.

For ages 7+ 27 Dec WOLF TALES A puppet storytelling show about animal and human nature, revealing amazing insights into the natural world. 12 and 1.30pm, for under 7s.

SCIENCE MUSEUM SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk 21 Nov, 5 Dec SCIENCE NIGHT A special overnight event for 7-13 year olds featuring exciting hands-on workshops, science shows, and a sleepover at the museum.

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk Every Sat POP UP PERFORMANCES Storytelling, interactive plays and dance. For all ages at 11am, 1 and 3pm. Free, drop in.

Every Sun DROP-IN DESIGN Pick up a design challenge, hunt for ideas in the galleries, then create your own. 10.30am-5pm, for age 5+ 28-31 Dec POP UP PERFORMANCES: THE NUTCRACKER 11am, 1 and 3pm. Discover the enchanting world of The Nutcracker with contemporary dance performances. Suitable for all the family.

Free, drop in 28 Dec - 4 Jan IMAGINATION STATION: CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR Create imaginative seasonal decorations and decorate the tree. 10.30am - 5pm. Free, drop-in, for age 3+ FREE ART FUN-BACK-PACKS, ACTIVITY CART AND ANIMAL BAGS Families can pick up an activity BackPack, get creative at Drop-in-Design or go on a gallery adventure trail. Free, drop-in. Suitable for children aged 4 to 11 Activity Cart: Fantastic hands-on art fun for children to create collages and pictures to take home.

Agent Animal bag: A sensory activity bag that has been developed especially for under 5s. Each bag contains an audio map and fabric cubes.

WALLACE COLLECTION W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org 5 Dec DECK THE HALLS Make some decorations to brighten up your home? With artists Amy Gee and Dorothée Perin. Free, drop-in. 11am -1pm, for age 6+ 6 Dec THE LITTLE DRAW Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities with artist Millie Nice.

1:30 - 4:30pm, all ages.

21 Dec DROP-IN ART WORKSHOP: A CRACKING WALLACE CHRISTMAS! Make a fun Christmas cracker inspired by the collection. Don't forget to bring a cracking joke! Free, drop-in for age 5+ 11am-1pm.

Sark; Nannie, the ship’s figurehead; or the ship’s cook, James Robson, who all have an extraordinary story to tell.

Suitable for ages 3+ Every Weds TODDLER TIME Bring your little sailors along for songs, stories and playtime on board.

2-4pm for ages 4 and under.

21 Nov SHIP'S BIRTHDAY A day of special events to celebrate Cutty Sark’s 146th birthday.

5, 6 Dec CUTTY SARK CHRISTMAS Make a beautiful Christmas decoration inspired by the cargoes Cutty Sark carried around the world. Sessions at 11.30am and 2pm.

29, 30 Dec PRECIOUS CARGOES If you could fill a ship with one thing, what would it be? Make a mini ship and fill it with something that’s important to you.

Sessions at 11.30am and 2pm.

FULHAM PALACE SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org every Mon and Tues (until 15 Dec) THE PALACE EXPLORERS A weekly parent/carer and toddler sessions for children aged 2-4. £3 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack.

24 Nov, 1 Dec PALACE STORIES History of the palace brought to life in these tales of the characters who lived there. Free, no booking necessary.

21 Nov YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGISTS’ CLUB Practical hands on sessions with real archaeologists learning about ancient civilisations. For 8-16 year olds. 10.30am 12.15pm.

23 Nov KIDS IN MUSEUMS TAKEOVER DAY Children will be running the palace for the day.

6, 12, 13 Dec FATHER CHRISTMAS (See our Where’s Santa page 18).

6 Dec NATIONAL TREE DRESSING DAY Create beautiful decorations from natural materials to hang on the branches of the trees. 10am-2pm, Free, no booking necessary.

GOLDEN HINDE SE1 9DG www.goldenhinde.com Every Sat PUBLIC GUIDED TOUR Let the costumed educators bring the Golden Hinde and its history to life.

Learn about life at sea and Drakes voyage around the world in this family-friendly tour.

28 Nov FAMILY OVERNIGHT EXPERIENCE Children will be dressed as Tudor sailors and become members of the crew. After learning the ship’s rules, they will be trained in navigation, barber surgery and gunning, before

Days Out listings continue on page 16

DAYS OUT CUTTY SARK SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Every weekend CUTTY SARK CHARACTERS Come aboard to hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past. Meet Captain Woodget, the ship’s most daring master; Jock Willis, the man who built Cutty

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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what’s on CONTINUED bedding down to sleep amongst the weapons on the Gun Deck. A Tudor style dinner and continental breakfast is provided. For age 6+ HAMPTON COURT PALACE KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk Selected Thurs and Sats TINY EXPLORERS Discover the fascinating stories of Hampton Court Palace in a multisensory workshop which includes music, movement and messy play for 0-4yrs. Booking essential.

20 Nov-4 Jan HAMPTON COURT PALACE ICE RINK (See our Ice-Skating listings on page 15).

5, 12, 19 Dec MAKE TUDOR DECORATIONS Create your own traditional Tudor decoration to hang on your tree. 11.30am and 2pm, free.

19 Dec, 2 Jan FAMILY GHOST TOURS Join the State Apartment Warders for an early evening walking tour and discover the stories of ghostly apparitions, paranormal activity and all manner of spooky happenings from the palace’s history. For 8 - 14 year olds.

27 Dec-3 Jan AN ELIZABETHAN CHRISTMAS A chance to travel back to 1593, when Queen Elizabeth I’s court would have glowed with festivities around a great big ‘yule log’ and outlandish gifts were presented to the ageing Queen, as well as exquisite music, dancing, stories and feasting lit up her palace. Down in the Tudor Kitchens you'll also find Elizabeth I's cooks preparing festive dishes fit for a Queen. 10.30am-3pm.

HMS BELFAST SE1 2JH www.iwm.org.uk ONGOING: GUN TURRET EXPERIENCE A chance to see what fighting at sea would have really been like.

Lights, audio, projections and movement will recreate the experience, highlighting the hectic and cramped conditions that would have seen up to twenty-six men in this confined space at any one time.

INTERACTIVE OPERATIONS ROOM The nerve centre and brain of the entire ship which now has exciting interactives.

FREE FAMILY DROP-IN ACTIVITIES: 14, 15 Nov and 12, 13 Dec CRACKING CODES Intercept messages, map hazards on the sea chart and even make up your own secret code. Learn about the skills intelligence officers had to have as well as some of the dangers that surrounded HMS Belfast at sea. Drop-in, all ages.

HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecologyevents 21 Nov FEED THE BIRDS: ECOLOGY CENTRE OPEN DAY Make a seed ball to feed to the hungry winter birds. Hang it up in the area outside the Ecology Centre or take it home for your garden birds. Drop-in, all ages. 12-4pm.

KENSINGTON PALACE W8 4PX www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace Weds and Sats TINY EXPLORERS Discover fascinating stories about Kensington Palace in these multisensory workshops. Music, movement, messy play and more for 0-4yrs. To book, call 020 3166 6646.

Weekends in Dec and 27 Dec-3 Jan A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Enjoy beautiful seasonal decorations in the palace and gardens and join in the celebrations with carol singing evenings, talks, special tours and seasonal food and drink.

8, 11, 15 Dec CAROL SINGING A fun, festive evening of singing Victorian inspired carols as you explore the sumptuous State Apartments. Experience the bold and bright sounds of a brass ensemble whilst one of the expert Explainers guides you through the palace and reveals stories of Christmas past along the way. Ticketed.

TW9 3AB www.kew.org 25 Nov-2 Jan CHRISTMAS ILLUMINATIONS TRAIL The one-mile sparkling path winds its way through the botanic gardens, with dancing illuminated fountains and glowing waterside reflections, a Choir of Holly Bushes, Tunnel of Lights and scented Fire Garden. Plus vintage carousel and helter-skelter rides, Santa and his elves, Christmas gifts and traditional festive fare. 5-10pm, advanced booking necessary.

ODDS FARM PARK HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk A fabulous day out at the farm! Meet the farmers and get close to the animals in the hands-on area and in the large undercover animal barns. There is a massive adventure play area with a four lane astra slide, two drop slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, swinging ropes and much more. Also a special Toddler and Under 5’s areas.

22 Nov, 28 Nov-24 Dec THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS Entering a cosy Grotto via a sparkling

and Children Families welcome – Goal Oriented

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Woodland Walkway, children will meet the Elves and of course Father Christmas himself, before exchanging a magical Golden Ticket for something very special in the Elves’ Teddy-Tastic Workshop. Combined with plenty of Christmas Lambs to meet and Crazy Entertainers every weekend in December and daily until 4 Jan. OSTERLEY PARK AND HOUSE TW7 4RB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park 5, 6, 12, 13 Dec OSTERLEY'S GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS - ‘UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS WITH THE CHILD FAMILY’ Step back to the 1770s with the Child family and household as they prepare for a spectacularly Georgian Christmas! Dance, dine, decorate and play your way upstairs and downstairs. Can you help our cooks create some sugar craft? Or maybe prepare the perfect table plan suits your skills set? Father Christmas will be flying in for a special visit, so pre-book your grotto ticket and receive a gift!

KEW GARDENS

Arabic for Women

Saturday dance & drama classes 3 age groups: 3-5 Tots (new for 2016!).

6-10 and 11-16 years.

10 weeks: £105 (Tots, 9-10am). £195 for other groups (10-12pm).

St Augustine’s Priory · W5 2JL www.yourstagedrama.com

THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

• Dynamic • Innovative • Effective • Native Female Teacher (& mother of 3!)

Call Reem on

07956 845 053

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

TOWER OF LONDON EC3N 4AB www.hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon Until 31 Jan AGINCOURT Exhibition with a detailed scale model of the battle, medieval armour, art, music and manuscripts which tell the story of the battle.

27-31 Dec MEDIAEVAL CHRISTMAS Join the royal party being entertained by mischievous jesters and majestic minstrels.

ICE SKATING RINKS It is the MUST-DO family activity in London at Christmas time. The only problem is where to go when there are so many great choices!

Somerset House WC1 www.somersethouse.org.uk/ice-rink 18 Nov-10 Jan On Tuesdays, enjoy late-night browsing in the pop-up Fortnum & Mason store, live entertainment and festive treats. Ticket prices from £7.50.

Winter Wonderland Hyde Park W2 http://hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/attractions/ ice-skating 20 Nov-3 Jan Glide around the spectacular, glittering ice rink set around the Victorian bandstand and illuminated with over 100,000 lights.

Adults from £14.50, child £9.50, family £38.

Westfield Shopping Centre W12 https://uk.westfield.com/london/entertainment/ice-rink 19 Nov-3 Jan Kids-only sessions available.

Off Peak sessions £10 adults, £8 children, Peak sessions (Sat, Sun and 21 Dec-3 Jan) £12 adults, £10 children.

Family ticket £32 off-peak, £38.50 peak.

Natural History Museum SW7 www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/exhibitions/ice-rink.html Until 3 Jan Separate rink for kids, plus fairground carousel. Adult from £12.65, Child from £8.80, Family from £39.60

November/December 2015

Hampton Court Palace KT8 www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace/WhatsOn/hamptoncourt-palace-ice-rink 20 Nov - 4 Jan Off peak session weekdays until 18 Dec. Adult £11.50, children (age 8-16) £9, (age 3-7) £8, Family £36. Peak: adult £13, children £9.50, family £38.

FAMILY THEATRE BARBICAN THEATRE EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/theatre 17-30 Dec GET HAPPY Enter a world of artfully controlled chaos. There’s a mysterious bag that drops from a height. Shoes have magical powers. And the strangest egg sandwich is made in front of your eyes.

Physical comedy, live music, acrobatics, silly dancing and audience interaction. For age 4+ (Relaxed performance on 23 Dec).

BUSH THEATRE W12 8LJ www.bushtheatre.co.uk 29 Nov FATHER CHRISTMAS NEEDS A WEE At every house Father Christmas eats and drinks the tasty treats that have been left for him. But when he reaches number ten he realises that he’s forgotten to do something rather important. A musical adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s much loved book.

11 Dec -2 Jan JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Lee Ryan stars as Jack, in a show full of laughs, spectacular sets and lots of audience participation. For all ages.

CADOGAN HALL SW1X 9DQ www.cadoganhall.com Book now: 4, 5 Dec MR POPPER’S PENGUINS A family musical with songs, puppets and a family of performing penguins - a musical adaptation of Richard and Florence Atwater’s popular book.

12 Dec CRASH BANG WALLOP All Claire wants this Christmas is for it to snow but the forecast doesn’t look promising. The City of London Sinfonia bring the winter weather to Cadogan Hall as they play through some festive favourites, chilly Christmas jingles, sing-a-long carols and more. For ages 3-8.

20 Dec PADDINGTON BEAR’S FIRST CONCERT The score is a journey with Paddington himself, from his first meeting with the Brown Family right up to his debut as a conductor at the Royal Albert Hall. The second half features Roald Dahl’s take on the classic Jack and the

November/December 2015

Beanstalk tale, using Dahl’s Revolting Rhyme as the narration.

21 Dec THE SNOWMAN AND PETER AND THE WOLF The Mozart Symphony Orchestra provides a live orchestral accompaniment to a giant screening of The Snowman and Prokofiev’s, Peter and the Wolf.

CAMBRIDGE THEATRE WC2H 9HU www.matildathemusical.com Booking until May 16 MATILDA THE MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s magical story about a girl with extraordinary powers.

CHELSEA THEATRE SW10 0DR www.chelseatheatre.org.uk 1-24 Dec PENGUIN! ELEPHANT! Penguin is a little bit selfish. Penguin loves fish fingers, but never shares them. Everything is black and white and that’s just the way Penguin likes it. Until one day Elephant turns up.

Elephant is big. Elephant is messy. Elephant likes lots of colour everywhere. However will Penguin cope?

A new musical adventure for children ages 3+ GREENFORD HALL UB6 9QN www.heos.org.uk 29, 30 Dec SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS A traditional pantomime full of excitement and adventures, plus the inevitable slapstick, romance, song and dance, and audience participation. For all ages.

THE LILIAN BAYLISS STUDIO EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com 12 Dec-3 Jan THE LITTLE MATCH GIRL A magical dance theatre show with live music based on Hans Christian Andersen's classic story of a young street girl's hopes and dreams.

LONDON COLISEUM WC2N 4ES www.ballet.org.uk 16 Dec-10 Jan NUTCRACKER Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker doll discover a magical world, where she battles with the Mouse King and meets a handsome stranger. As the air grows colder, Clara and her valiant Nutcracker take a hot air balloon ride across London to the glistening Land of Snow where her adventure really begins. A treat for all the family.

The Tiger Who Came To Tea AT THE LYRIC THEATRE

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 20 Nov - 24 Dec RAYMOND BRIGGS’ FATHER CHRISTMAS A charming show is back to delight children under 6 and their families. Follow Santa as he awakes from a dream of sun, sea and sand only to find it is the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve. This timeless festive story bursts into life with live music, playful puppets and a magical set.

21 Nov-3 Jan CINDERELLA Traditional panto is back with plenty of festive fun in true Lyric style. Grab your glittery Converse and put the pumpkin into top gear as Cinderella heads to the biggest party of the season to meet a very charming Prince. The show will be full of colourful characters, live music, lots of laughs and, of course, two very ugly sisters. For ages 6+ LYRIC THEATRE W1D 7ES www.nimaxtheatres.com/lyric-theatre 25 Nov-10 Jan THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA Join Sophie and the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show adapted from Judith Kerr’s popular take; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised!

For age 3+

Family Theatre listings continue on page 18

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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what’s on CONTINUED MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN W12 7LJ www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 21 Dec THE ROBIN WHO LOST HIS VOICE Poor little Christmas robin! What is he going to do - how will everyone know it’s Christmas? Come along a musical path and adventures with our sad friend to find a joyful voice hidden somewhere in the snow...

SHAW THEATRE

PEACOCK THEATRE WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com 25 Nov-3 Jan THE SNOWMAN Based on the book

by Raymond Briggs. step into the wonderful wintery world of a boy and his magical snowman. As a unique friendship is kindled, the two embark on a starry-skied adventure to the North Pole, where they meet Father Christmas and narrowly escape the clutches of Jack Frost.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com 28 Nov-10 Jan MR RABBIT MEETS BRER SANTA A marionette spectacle based on the collected stories of Joel Chandler Harris.

QUESTORS THEATRE W5 5BQ www.questors.org.uk 12 Dec-2 Jan DICK WHITTINGTON & HIS CAT Ealing's fun-filled pantomime is off on a magical journey with Dick and his amazing cat. A treat for all the family.

RICHMOND THEATRE TW9 1QJ 4 Dec-10 Jan CINDERELLA Hayley Mills will make

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her panto debut as the Fairy Godmother, with the nation’s favourite dame Matthew Kelly as one half of the Ugly Sisters. This magical rags to riches story will feature, sumptuous sets, gorgeous fairytale costumes, real Shetland ponies,fantastic song and dance numbers, magic and bags of audience participation. Fun and laughter is guaranteed for the whole family!

NW1 2AJ www.shaw-theatre.com 12-30 Dec THE WIZARD OF OZ A Christmas pantomime version of L.Frank Baum's much-loved fairy tale. Packed with well-known pop songs, brilliant dance routines, lots of audience participation and plenty of laughter for all the family.

SADLER’S WELLS EC1R www.sadlerswells.com 1-24 Dec MATTHEW BOURNE’S SLEEPING BEAUTY A spectacular gothic romance for all ages.

SOUTHBANK CENTRE SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk 20, 27 Nov, 4, 11, 18 Dec RUG RHYMES FOR THE UNDER FIVES A short session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories, and the opportunity to look at and borrow books. Free but booking essential.

2, 16, 23, 30 Nov, 7, 14 Dec DRAGON BABIES Bring your little ones to shake, rattle and gong.

Gamelan for ages 3-5.

18 Nov GROOVE BABY PRESENTS Parents with babies or toddlers can hear high-quality jazz, world,

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

groove and contemporary improvised music.

The environment is relaxed and friendly, whatever your age - crying, singing, dancing and playing along are all welcome.

20 Nov-17 Jan BUMP ROLLERDISCO A mobile rollerdisco under Hungerford Bridge for the whole family.

11am-11pm, skates available for hire.

28 Nov PRAM JAM: JUST FOR DADS Dads, grandads and male carers - kick off the day by singing and grooving with your child aged 5 and under.

8 Dec FAMILY GAMELAN TASTER SESSION Introduction to the Javanese percussion orchestra called the gamelan. For ages 6+ 9, 16 Dec PRAM JAM: EARLY YEARS DANCE WORKSHOP Get creative with your toddler as you dance together in The Clore Ballroom. For under 5s.

16 Dec-3 Jan SLAVA’S SNOWSHOES Family show with a heart-stopping blizzard of snow and other breathtaking visual effects. For age 8+ 22 Dec LEAPS AND BOUNDS An inclusive activity day.

Learn some dance moves, take part in a craft workshop, play indoor sports games and sing along to a film screening. This event has been specially designed for disabled children aged 12 and under, their families and friends however, everyone is welcome.

VAUDEVILLE THEATRE WC2R 0NH www.nimaxtheatres.com/vaudevilletheatre/the_gruffalo 15 Dec-3 Jan THE GRUFFALO Tall Stories’ hit musical adaptation of the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler. An enchanting production with the perfect combination of songs, laughter, physical theatre and just the right amount of scary fun set to a wonderfully catchy score with original music and lyrics.

November/December 2015

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SANTA TO YOUR DOOR! A visit from Santa on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or any other time. He will deliver your presents and chat to your children about their favourite things. He may even sing a few festive songs before he says goodbye having nibbled a mince pie, or two. Call the Santa hotline on: 0208 959 1045 or email: info@adamantsparties.co.uk

CHILDCARE

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at the Lyric Hammersmith...

Fresh for 2015, the show will be full of colourful characters, live music, lots of laughs and, of course, two VERY ugly sisters!

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November/December 2015

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clubs & classes DANCE DANCE GALLERY Dance Gallery is Ealing’s leading dance school and specialises in modern, jazz, tap and musical theatre productions for children aged 4-18 years old. …0208 566 9672 jill@dancegallery.co.uk www.dancegallery.co.uk KENSINGTON BALLET 18 months - 2 years Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Fulham. …07957 650042 www.kensingtonballet.com WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY Become a Dance Teacher, a new concept in dance teacher training. …07771 984590 info@westlondondanceacademy.com www.westlondondanceacademy.com www.becomeadanceteacher.co.uk WEST LONDON SCHOOL OF DANCE 21/2 - 16 years …020 8743 3856 westlondondance@aol.com www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk DRAMA ALLSORTS DRAMA Drama classes, Holiday Workshops and Parties. …020 8767 5298 www.allsortsdrama.com PERFORM Drama, dance and singing sessions held in various venues around London.To find a FREE trial class near you call: …0845 400 1285 www.perform.ork.uk

SPORTS

STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS Dance, drama and singing for 4-18 year olds. …Chiswick 020 8398 4709 …Kensington & Brook Green 020 8398 8106 …Hammersmith 020 8398 8106 …Acton 020 8819 1399 …Ealing 01494 700794 info@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk YOURSPACE DRAMA Saturday mornings of drama song and dance (6-16s) plus creative performing arts holiday courses 3-16s) at Easter and in August. Ealing W5. Find out more at www.yourspacedrama.com info@yourspacedrama.com …07580 474638 FOOTBALL KIDDIKICKS Football (W2,W4,W8,W10,W11,TW8) Available for boys and girls from 18 months to age 7. …020 7937 7965 info@kiddikicks.co.uk www.kiddikicks.co.uk GYM & DANCE TWISTERS. Gymnastics, Ballet,Dance Drama Toddlers to Teenagers. …020 8933 9997 · …020 8840 4452 twisters@btinternet.com www.twisters.org.uk

Will To Win Junior Multi-Sports Camps, Junior Netball, Football & Tennis courses and Drop-in sessions. …Pitshanger Park 020 8991 9844 …Lammas Park, 020 8840 0888 www.willtowin.co.uk LANGUAGES Arabic for Women & Children Female teacher …07956 845053 TUTORS AND LEARNING SUPPORT EXPLORE LEARNING Maths & English Tuition Centres. 5-14 years. Free Trial session …Ealing 020 8090 8710 …Hayes 020 8561 8530 …Westfield London 020 809 01216 www.explorelearning.co.uk SUSAN DAUGHTREY EDUCATION 11+ courses in Ealing (West London) …020 3198 7772 jjacob@SDE11plus.com www.sde11plus.com/ealing FLEET TUTORS Private home tutoring. …020 8580 3911 jwww.fleet-tutors.co.uk MRS JONES 11 PLUS TUITION Mock exam practice. …020 8390 6076 www.11plustuition.co.uk VICTORIA PAGE Private tuition 21/2 - 11years. …07050 246810 VIVIEN BORNEMANN Home tuition. Art, Craft and design. All ages. …020 8932 1010