Families West London Nov/Dec 2012

ISSUE 83: November/December 2012 www.familieswest.co.uk

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In this issue: Where to find Santa

Cover picture: © www.yourstrulyphotography.co.uk

Ice skating rinks Christmas shows Days out

PLUS: Special offers for Families West readers Families West • PO Box 32231 • London W5 1JR • Tel: 020 8930 4707 • Fax: 0208 930 7704 • E-mail: familieswest@yahoo.co.uk

ce n a D and m y G We welcome children of all abilities

Twisters Ealing St. John’s Church, Mattock Lane, Ealing London W13 9LA

Twisters Acton & Chiswick Acton Baptist Church, Church Road, Acton, London W3 8PP

From Toddlers to Teenagers: agers rs s: Photography by melaniemoss.com

Gymnastics, Ballet, Dance Drama, rama Street Jazz/Tap and Boys Street Dance.

For Adults: Stretch Workout and Body Blitz.

TWISTERS classes are stimulating and fun..

We are well known for our patience p and understanding. g

For more information call: Hermione on 0208 933 9997 or Louise on 0208 840 4452 Email: twisters@btinternet.com

www.twisters.org.uk w

For children aged from 2 to 5 years. The nursery follows the Montessori method. We also offer, French, Ballet, Music, IT, Art and Drama.

Full and part time sessions are available. Qualified and experienced teachers maintain a high standard of learning and care. * Excellent academic record * Caring and nurturing environment * Happy, considerate and confident children

Ealing and Uxbridge 0203 092 1313 or gware@littlekickers.co.uk Chiswick and Hammersmith 07792503571 or bbrownlie@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk

Where learning’s a ball

Tel no: 0208 579 2304 Mobile no: 07956 228 959 Email: info@stmatthewsmontessori.com Website: www.stmatthewsmontessori.com

Chiswick and Hammersmith Christmas Party Saturday 24th November Chiswick Town Hall 10am - 12noon Tickets to be booked in advance Adults £3.50 (children free) www.eventelephant.com/nctchristmas Silent auction lots listed online www.formums.net To include Mumpreneurs Christmas Market, Silent auction, Free taster classes, Face painting, Balloon Artist Santas Grotto (free gift for every child) 2

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November/December 2012

News & Views

IN THIS ISSUE check out the Reader Offers on page 11

Cover picture: © www.yourstrulyphotography.co.uk

Are you ready for it? Or will you be like me, still wildly searching for that last minute inspiration on Christmas eve? The cold weather has at least put us in the mood for welcoming the Christmas season in this year. It's a difficult issue to put together because in West London there is so MUCH going on for families. Our What's on is crammed with wonderful things to do with all the family. Do your planning early and put them in your diary. There is even more on our website as we update the listings regularly as well as all the other articles on parenting, education, clubs and classes... the list goes on. We also have a comprehensive listing in our directory for when you are searching for businesses.

Have a very happy holiday and see you in the New Year.

Contents News & Views Christmas: Gift Guide Ice Skating Where's Santa Christmas Shows Reader Offers & Competitions Alternative Christmas Education: How to learn the times tables News What's On in West London Theatre Health: Excessive Sugar Classifieds

3-4 6-7 8 9 10 11 12 14-15 16 18-23 24-25 26 27

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November/December 2012

Club Petit Pierrot – NEW French drop-off class for 4 to 6 year olds in Nothing Hill Club Petit Pierrot now has a fun after-school drop-off class for 4 to 6 year olds at their lovely venue in Notting Hill. The class takes place at The Greek Cathedral, Moscow Road, W2 on Thursdays from 4.15pm to 5.15pm, and is open to beginners and advanced learners too. Songs, rhymes, language games, role-play, dances, puppets… all great fun! At their Notting Hill venue they also offer stimulating and ever-popular Parent & Toddler groups on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings and on Thursday afternoons (from 1 year old).

Call 020 7385 5565 or email admincpp@btconnect.com to book your free trial lesson now. www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

The perfect Christmas treat for mums If you are looking for a real pick me up this holiday season, you could try a session at the Coco Nail Bar in Notting Hill. It’s a salon designed to make its customers feel at ease with a luxury feel, professional staff, and all the latest products brought in as soon as they are available. They offer various types of three-week manicures with the latest Essie and OPI seasonal colours and also this year’s celebrity favourite – Minx. These are foil transfers that are heated and applied for a gorgeous party look. They have also introduced hard gels which will extend natural nails – perfect for those of us that normally have short, stubby ones!

Book in one of their mummy and baby mornings with your little one in tow or take advantage of their late night opening and treat yourself to a glass of bubbly while being pampered!

For a really special Christmas gift, how about one of their vouchers? A “bundle voucher” entitles the recipient to 6 treatments for the price of 5. Yes please!

Coco Nail Bar is at 267 Portobello Road, London W11 1LR. Call them on 020 7243 1113. www.coconailbar.com F ili West Families W t is i ddesigned i d bby N Natalie t li SSchmidt h idt off www.matobodesign.com t b d i andd printed i t d bby Rid Ridgeway PPress, 12 C Campbell b ll C Court, t BBramley, l Tadley, T dl Hampshire H hi RG26 5EG. Tel 01252 885837. Copyright Families West Magazine 2012. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families West is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

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News & Views La Chouette Pre-Prep Bilingual School in Ealing Bi-lingual education is one of the decisions that you can make for your child which can really help them in the future. In West London we have more and more opportunities to make that an easy option, and now in Ealing we have a new truly bi-lingual op option. La Chouette is an independent bilingual pre-prep op school in Ealing Broadway that offers children between the sc ages of 2 to 6 combined French National and Early Years ag ccurriculums. Teaching is based on bilingualism through iimmersion with an education favouring children’s personal development, placing emphasis on a child’s general “welld being.’’ Small class sizes and extra-curricular activities are taught by qualified French and English native speakers well as specially qualified History of Art, Music and Dance teachers, as w teachers. The new academic year has started promisingly with children settling in smoothly and quickly to their new environment.

To find out more about La Chouette, call 07557 029255 or send an email to info@lachouetteschool.co.uk

Would you enjoy a free facial?

Invite a couple of friends to enjoy your skincare demonstration at home and receive a free facial and free products*.

ARK Age Aware Skincare is a brand new bespoke range that focuses on your skin age rather than type It is a unique concept that addresses your individual skin concerns and delivers amazing results.

Call or text Vivienne on 07984 644439 or email: ark.vivienne@hotmail.com (* level of free product linked to sales)

Charity tackles ignorance about fertility So you want to have a baby (or another one), but are you sure you know how?

Wear A Hat Day for Brain Tumour Research – Join the fun on March 28th and help fund the fight against brain tumours ‘Wear a Hat Day’ is a fun way of increasing awareness and getting people raising money for an often overlooked form of cancer. It’s a day every year that the charity ask people to wear a hat to raise awareness and funds for vital research into brain tumours. A day when they encourage people to make donations in order to wear a hat to school, at work, at social events or even at home.

From sponsored silences to charity runs and school bake sales, educational facilities around the country are being encouraged to raise money in any way they can.

Sue Farrington-Smith, Director of Brain Tumour Research, comments: “Brain tumour research receives less than 1% of national cancer research spending in the UK yet this deadly disease kills more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer so please get involved on March 28th 2013”.

Register your interest today by emailing sarah@braintumourresearch.org 4

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Sexual health charity FPA reports that a significant proportion of couples trying to conceive don’t understand enough about fertility and as a result may mistakenly believe they have a medical problem. There are many common myths about fertility and evidence from an FPA study reveals that 50% of adults don’t know basic facts about reproduction. As a result couples trying to get pregnant could suffer unnecessary stress as well as wasting money on expensive fertility tests and treatments.

“Equally, couples with a genuine problem may be waiting for nature to take its course,” says Natika Halil from FPA, “when in fact there is a fertility issue and they need professional help without delay.” To reduce these potential problems, FPA has launched Fertility Awareness Kits to assist couples when starting or extending a family, available from www.fpadirect.org.uk.

The charity also runs a helpline 0845 122 8690. www.fpa.org.uk

Pop-up British Handmade Craft Liz Pilgrim, mumpreneur finalist and owner of babye has carefully selected local crafters to showcase their handmade products at babye in her pop-up project that is running from now until Christmas. Local crafters will rent shelf space at babye and sell a huge array of gifts and home accessories – perfect Christmas shopping and all handmade locally. All products will be available to purchase immediately.

Liz is keen to promote mumpreneurs, crafters & small businesses with an emphasis on handmade products.

“With rent & rates so high, it’s so difficult for small businesses to create a retail presence. I think this a low-cost highly effective way for me to promote small local businesses. I am passionate about my local community & really want show a different way of looking at the high street. This might play a small part in formulating plans for Ealing’s future” babye is at 20 The Green, Ealing, London W5 5DA Shop online: www.babye.co.uk

To advertise in Families West please email adverts@familieswest.co.uk or phone 020 8930 4707. When you contact us, please say that you saw our advert in Families West!

November/December 2012

November/December 2012

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Christmas Gift Guide

For babies Dear Zoo hand puppets You can now buy accessories to accompany this children’s classic and one of our favourites was the set of finger puppets to be used by a parent while telling the story. £26.99 from www.dearzooshop.co.uk

For toddlers Alphabet Zoo ABC House Blocks Play, stack, tower and build with the Alphabet Zoo ABC House Blocks. Toddlers will develop their motor skills while creating buildings complete with roofs, windows and doors, before turning the pieces upside down to nest within one another. Made of high quality wood and non toxic paint. Suitable for age 12 mths + RRP £28.00 from www.bibsandstuff.com

For boys and girls g Kiddimoto balance ce bike Award winning Kiddimoto to help children develop their eir skills of balance and coordination and make a seamless transition to a pedal bike without the use of stabilisers.

Wide variety of designs and can be personalised! For 2-6yrs.

Available from www.kiddimoto.co.uk £59.99

Wobble Deck W EExciting electronic, balance bo board features four games, tipped to become the latest craze up and down the ccountry. Test skill, memory and agility with hilarious challenges. www.worldsapart.com for stockists. Ages RRP £24.99

© www.yourstrulyphotography.co.uk

Editor’s favourites We’ve sifted through masses of press releases and here it is: our own selection of toys for Christmas 2012. This year we’ve chosen toys we’d buy ourselves, either because they offer great play value, develop creativity or physical play or because they are made of reusable material. With a recession on, choosing toys that will last enough to be handed down is a wise move too. Most toys can be ordered from your local toyshops, who always provide great advice too if you are not sure about what to buy. Enjoy.

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A great stocking filler: Cookie Crumbles Baking Mix Range A neat idea from the people at Cookie Crumbles. These home baking kits are pretty foolproof and come with simple instructions for even the youngest child. Choose from Wholesome Brownie, Granola Energy Bar, Blueberry and Vanilla Muffin and Oat and Raisin cookie mix. None of the usual nasties found in other baking mixes, only natural, healthy ingredients. Order from www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk November/December 2012

For girls

Give a garden that recycles as it grows!

Doodle Daysack Comes complete with a special Doodle Pad that can be used for drawing, painting or even playing games. Once your child has finished their masterpiece, the pad can be displayed proudly in the daysack’s clear, front pocket. www.littlelife.co.uk for stockists. Age: 4+ RRP: £19.99

BigJigs Village Shop This brightly coloured shop has a bright yellow counter and shelves that have been decorated with pictures of the kind of products you would expect to see in a village store. It also comes with a clock on the sign so you can display opening hours!

Educational yet fun, this is a permanent favourite with children from WoodenToyShop.co.uk Age 3+ price £97.95 (groceries and accessories additional)

Darcey ‘Ballerina’ doll Removable thin knit ballet style cardigan, lycra leotard and satin tutu with mesh underskirt.

Wire integrated in arms and legs mean Darcey can hold various ballet positions. Removable ballet shoes and pink satin pyjamas and slippers for bedtime. £35 From Silver Cross

Makedo – for those who enjoy the Christmas packaging!

Every parent knows that feeling, when you’ve spent a fortune on the latest hightech toy only to find your children much more engrossed playing with the packaging.

Makedo’s brilliant idea is to help those kids make better use of the packaging! It supplies a Safe-saw for cutting and punching through materials safely, Re-clips and Lock-hinges for connecting – the child’s creativity and instinct for building things from boxes, cardboard boxes and wrappings then takes over from there.

Check out the website for videos and photos of inspiring creations made by people from around the world. Winner of three of the most prestigious International Design Awards. From £7.99 SRP from www.marbeltoys.co.uk

A keyhole garden allows an African family to grow 3 meals a day. The design, which looks like a keyhole from above, incorporates a central basket where composted waste is put and water from the kitchen is poured. Just £12 will provide training in how to build a Keyhole Garden for one family. www.sendacow.org.uk

Make your own presents!

I know, you are too busy, and have no time, … but take a minute to consider whether you might benefit from ‘taking the time’ to do it. and home made presents are always much appreciated! You’ll find recipes/how to on the net.

■ Make your own jam or chutney, (do invest in nice looking labels) ■ Make your own raw chocolate from scratch, no cooking involved, just mixing ingredients. See our recipe on Familiesonline/rawchocolate ■ Frame a beautiful child’s drawing/painting for a relative ■ Make your own Christmas decorations for fun ■ Turn our family photos into a collage, calendar, place mat etc. Many options available online or Snappy Snaps.

■ Paint your own pottery (mug, plate, dish, teapot etc) at our local pottery cafe ■ Make your own Christmas cards. Those made with family pictures are easy too ■ Dig out that candle making kit your children never used. It is really easy and results do look good.

■ Knitters will have fun making rattles, jumpers, scarves, dolls etc. There are some great books to show you how.

■ Try a craft kit: they allow you to learn the techniques of a craft by creating a finished item from the supplied components. Many kits available are for mums too, including mosaic, soap making, jewellery, knitting, paint your own cup, mobiles for baby, bath bomb and much more. Free delivery for all orders over £30 with www.makeitnow.co.uk http://direct.hobbycraft.co.uk have a wide choice of kits.

Invest in beautiful packaging, it will make all the difference!

For older children Solar Mechanics Experiment with green energy using solar cells to build a mini robot, cooling fan and more, from the Science Museum, ages 8+ £17 from www.sciencemuseumshop.co.uk November/December 2012

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Ice skating at Christmas

Westfield London

22nd Nov – 6th Jan Westfield London Take a moment out from gliding through the stores to glide the ice at Westfield London’s indoor rink, inside The Atrium.

Fun Penguin stabilisers will keep young skaters looking like professionals and festive tunes will provide the perfect soundtrack for a magical experience.

Look out for the special themed sessions.

Bookings are available now on www.westfield.com/uk.

Christmas holiday workshops in West London

Natural History Museum

With prominent London landmarks providing spectacular backgrounds, ice skating is fast becoming a ‘must do’ family festive activity.

2 Nov – 6 Jan Natural History Museum Ice Rink (SW7) Set within the Museum’s breath-taking grounds, the Ice Rink is a charming winter wonderland in the heart of the city. For the first time, this year’s Ice Rink will feature a magical Christmas Tree in the middle of the rink. Offering an array of entertainment and events for all ages, attractions include a beautiful fairground carousel, a junior rink for younger skaters staffed with ice marshals, and delicious Christmas themed refreshments. www.nhmskating.com

16 Nov – 6 Jan Skate at Somerset House (WC2R) Celebrate the festive season in style at London’s most glamorous ice rink. There will be Skate School which sets the standard for people of all ages and abilities to learn how to build confidence or improve their technique on the ice. Also Penguin Club for children under the age of 8, which successfully guides children through their first tentative steps on the ice. Booking required in advance for lessons. 0844 847 1520 www.somersethouse.org.uk/ice-rink

23 Nov – 6 Jan Hyde Park Winter Wonderland (SW1) This year’s Winter Wonderland has an exciting new addition called The Magical Ice Kingdom; a spectacular ice and snow sculpture experience, unique to the UK. Created from over 200 tons of ice and snow, this breathtaking experience will host over 500 ice and snow sculptures. Other attractions will include the largest outdoor Ice Age 4 Ice Rink, the 8

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iconic Giant Observation Wheel and the beautiful Angels Christmas Market and new Yuletide Market and Santa Land for the younger visitors. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

16 Nov – 24 Feb Broadgate Ice Rink (EC2M) This small circular ice rink is tucked away behind Liverpool Street station, and allows visitors to turn up and skate without booking.

As it open until February, the traditional skating season is extended well into the New Year. 020 7505 4100 www.broadgate.co.uk

17 Nov – 6 Jan The Tower Of London Ice Rink (EC3N) London’s most dramatic open-air ice rink returns to the spectacular setting of the Tower of London. Located in the moat, the ice rink is set against the magnificent fortress battlements, providing a stunning setting for winter skating in the City. 020 8241 9818 www.toweroflondonicerink.com

1 Dec - 13 Jan Ice at the Palace (KT8) Hampton Court Ice Rink is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, and will return for 6 weeks of winter fun. Glide around the ice in royal style within the setting of the magnificent Palace. Enjoy the winter sun as it glistens on the ice, and after dark, skate under the stars.

The Palace will be illuminated after the sun goes down, providing a magical fairytale scene to delight young and old! 020 8241 9818 www.hamptoncourticerink.com

FUN WITH FIMO CLAY 18, 20 Dec and 7 Jan www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN 20 Dec Make and shake workshop and show for ages 3-8. www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk

KITE STUDIOS 10-21 Dec Seasonally inspired art workshops for ages 5-15. www.kitestudios.org

GUNNERSBURY PARK MUSEUM 25 Nov Stir-Up Sunday! Join the Victorian servants as they prepare for the Christmas festivities. 11.30am, 1 and 2.30pm.

Gunnersbury Park, W3 8LQ www.hounslow.info/arts/ gunnersburyparkmuseum

THE KIDS COOKERY SCHOOL 17 Dec-6 Jan (tbc) Cookery workshops for children at 107 Gunnersbury Lane, Acton London W3 8HQ www.thekidscookeryschool.co.uk

SONG ACADEMY 17-18 Dec Singing and Songwriting workshop for ages 11-14. 2:30-5:30pm at Holy Trinity Church, Brook Green, W6 7BL www.songacademy.co.uk

ARTPEGGIOS MUSIC CAMP 19 Dec-6 Jan Five half-day sessions per week in Earls Court. www.artpeggios.com

CHISWICK HOLIDAY COURSES 20 and 21 Dec Choose from Christmas Crafts, Magical Mosiacs or Creative Writing. (age from 6-14.) Venue: Chiswick Pier Trust, Pier House, Corney Reach Way, W4 www.chiswickcourses.co.uk

ALLSORTS CHRISTMAS DRAMA WORKSHOP 20-21 Dec For ages 4-11 www.allsortsdrama.com November/December 2012

WINTER WONDERLAND HYDE PARK

WWT London Wetland Centre

Until 6 Jan Santa will be opening his grotto every day from 10am to 6pm. Entry is free and Santa will have a gift for children who've been good! Run on a first-come first-served basis. Take time to explore SANTA LAND which has children's rides and games. (Tokens needed for rides.) Combine with a visit to the MAGIC ICE KINGDOM, CHRISTMAS CIRCUS, GIANT WHEEL and ICE-SKATING. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

© Jamie Wyver

HARRODS

Where’s Santa this Christmas?

ODDS FARM PARK

LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE

Every weekend and 24 December, SANTA WILL BE AT ODDS FARM PARK – every weekend in December and on Christmas eve. For a small extra charge, children can visit Santa in his magical grotto where he is giving out gifts. Every day from 1-24 Dec, children can also choose a free chocolate treat from the Christmas tree in the Gift Shop. Continue the warm fuzzy feel with a visit to the lambs due in December.

Odds Farm Park is located just minutes from Junction 2 of the M40, near Beaconsfield.

01628 520188 www.oddsfarm.co.uk

The Centre is hosting a WINTER WONDERLAND WEEKEND on 8 and 9 Dec. Experience the magic of a festive visit to Father Christmas and his huskies on this beautiful nature reserve. The friendly huskies look gorgeous but they're also working animals, so younger children can experience the excitement of a free husky sleigh ride (age eight and under, although weight restrictions apply). You can also have your photo taken with one of these cuddly dogs. The huskies will be there from 10am - 4pm (with a short break) on both days. Father Christmas will be in his cosy grotto along with magician Merlin to keep the kids entertained alongside arts and crafts activity tables. (£5 charge for visiting the grotto.) www.wwt.org.uk/visit/london

KEW GARDENS Bring your little ones along to meet FATHER CHRISTMAS IN HIS GROTTO, located in the Princess of Wales Conservatory, (open for free from Sat 8 to Sun 23 Dec, 12 midday to 3.30pm, with last entry at 3pm). After Christmas day the grotto will reopen to host magical story telling sessions, where families can enjoy traditional folktales featuring shadow puppetry. (26 Dec to 6 Jan 2013, 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm, sessions last 20-30 minutes). www.kew.org

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN On Sunday 2 Dec at 6pm, the Music House will be hosting CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT for all the family – a magical evening under Bush Hall’s glittering chandliers.

Performances, readings, carols and refreshments followed by the man himself.

(Adults £7 / Children £6, under 1’s free.) www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk

SANTA RETURNS TO HARRODS to meet and greet all the family in his grotto. All children who visit receive a gift and parents have a chance to buy a photo. Open until 24 Dec. £10 booking fee. Tickets for specific time slots can be booked online. www.harrods.com

HAMLEYS Until 24 Dec you can have BREAKFAST, BRUNCH, LUNCH, TEA or DINNER WITH FC AND HIS TEAM OF ELVES! Hour long session with storytelling, individual chats and gifts for £45 per child. www.hamleys.com

LONDON ZOO 17 Nov-24 Dec SANTA IN HIS REINDEER LODGE, a custom-designed grotto built in a fairytale setting at London Zoo. Children can see the reindeer close up, then visit Santa with their wish list. www.zsl.org

WESTFIELD Get the family ready for a magical, all-digital, 5D personalised CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE with a Pixar film quality animated story that tells the tale of Elbow the Elf, who saves Christmas. Each child visiting Santa’s grotto at either Westfield London or Westfield Stratford City will receive a gift and have the opportunity to feature in the film, helping Elbow on his journey to help save Santa’s presents from the good elf-turned-bad.

Dates TBC, please visit the website for more information. www.uk.westfield.com/london

ACTON CHRISTMAS FAIR SANTA will be in his grotto at Acton Christmas Fair on 8 Dec, from 10am to 4pm. The fair will be held on The Mount (in front of Morrisons.)

Stay awhile and do a bit of Christmas shopping; traders will be selling seasonal food, decorations and crafts as well as the usual market goods.

Plenty of entertainment on tap including carol singing, music and dancing.

BRAMLEYS BIG ADVENTURE On 21 Dec Bramleys Big Adventure are hosting a FANCY DRESS CHRISTMAS PARTY DISCO for the kids and their family with goody bags, snack boxes and Father Christmas in attendance. £10 per child 5-7pm 020 8960 1515 www.bramleysbig.co.uk

OR

invite Santa to your home on Christmas eve or Christmas day

He will bring in the presents, chat with the kids, eat a mince pie or two or might even sing a few songs and then says goodbye.

Call the Santa hotline on 0208 959 1045 www.adamantsparties.co.uk November/December 2012

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Christmas Shows

See page 24 for the contact details of the theatres mentioned

LITTLE CHARLEY BEAR’S S URE CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE

5 – 24 Dec Little Charley Bear (as seen on CBeebies) live on stage in a fun and engaging family show; where children can get involved shouting ‘Are you there, Little Charley Bear?’ and then try and guess what Little Charley Bear is pretending to be. Songs, games and a visit from Santa. For children up to age 7.

AMBASSADORS THEATRE

SCROOGE THE MUSICAL Until 5 Jan Bill Kenwright's family musical based on Dicken’s A Christmas Carol returns to the West End. LONDON PALLADIUM

CINDERELLA

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST 6 -29 Dec. TV Presenter Alison Hammond from “ITV’s This Morning” will be spreading some fairy dust Scrooge the Musical and Eggheads C J de Mooi will be providing the boos as the resident baddie and will be joined by Oliver Mellor.

Pantomime Dame Rodney Ward and Harry Potter’s Rusty Goffe will join a supporting cast and dancers in this festive extravaganza. SHAW THEATRE

Win a family ticket to see Cinderella on page 11

ALADDIN 24 Nov – 5 Jan When word reaches Tumbledown Castle that the Prince will be holding a New Year’s Eve ‘Pick A Princess Ball’ at Hammersmith Palais, Ms Hardup and her daughters dress to impress; but with the Ugly Sisters’ mess to clean up and nothing but rags to wear, will poor Cinderella get to go to the ball and meet her Prince? Ages 6+ LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

7 Dec – 13 Jan Starring Tim Vine, Aladdin is the family-friendly festive adventure with laughter by the lamp-load! So rub the magic lamp, enter the cave of wonders and be transported on a flying carpet ride into the mystical world of the Far East. (BSL Interpreted Performance Fri 4 Jan 7pm, Relaxed Performance Mon 7 Jan 7pm, Audio Described Performance Sat 12 Jan 2pm) RICHMOND THEATRE

Cinderella © Helen Maybanks

THE SNOWMAN 28 Nov- 6 Jan Stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ classic Christmas tale of a young boy whose snowman comes to life on Christmas Eve. The stage adaptation brings all the magic of Christmas to life on stage, complete with characters literally flying through the air in crisp, snowstrewn skies. PEACOCK THEATRE

A CHRISTMAS CAROL The Snowman

29 Nov-6 Jan Based on Dickens’ own performance adaptation starring Simon Callow. ARTS THEATRE

FATHER CHRISTMAS 30 Nov – 5 Jan Nearly 40 years after it was first published, Raymond Briggs’ family favourite Father Christmas is set to receive its first ever stage adaptation. Father Christmas awakes from a dream of summer sun only to realise that it’s bloomin’ Christmas Eve and the start of his longest night of the year.

For under 6’s.

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

A CHRISTMAS CAROL 1 Dec-13 Jan The Charles Dickens favourite show for the Christmas season presented with marionettes and shadow puppets, special effects and dramatic lighting. For ages 5+ PUPPET THEATRE BARGE 10

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JACK AND THE EXTRAORDINARY BEANSTALK 20 Dec An enchanting musical story tale about Jack, his bean and a very high tree. Where did it go, and what did he find? 11:30am (0-8yrs) MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN

A CHRISTMAS CAROL 10 -16 Dec A unique one man adaptation of the Dicken’s classic – Clive Francis re-enacts this festive tale while playing every notable character in the story. ST JAMES THEATRE

PETER PAN 15 Dec-6 Jan A hilarious re-telling of JM Barrie’s much-loved panto, as Eastender’s Adam Woodyatt makes his pantomime return as Captain Hook. BECK THEATRE

CINDERELLA 12 Dec-26 Jan An original take on an old fairytale with live music.

For ages 6+ ST JAMES THEATRE

DICK WHITTINGTON AND HIS CAT 29 and 30 Dec A Traditional Family Pantomime by Peter Denyer, presented by HEOS Musical Theatre at 2pm & 6.30pm daily This funfilled pantomime has it all – fun, laughter, slapstick, audience participation, song & dance, romance... As Dick, with his faithful cat Tommy, seeks his fortune in London he meets and falls in love with Alice. But Queen Rat has evil ideas for Dick and as one disaster after another befall our hero, Fairy Bow Bells desperately needs your help if she is to overcome Queen Rat. Suitable for the whole family. HEOS November/December 2012

WEST (London)

READER OFFERS & COMPETITIONS Win a Family ticket to see...

Room on the Broom

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Winner will be notified via email on 11th December.

A spellbinding adventure from the creators of The Gruffalo!

How the cat purred and how the witch grinned As they sat on their broomstick and flew through the wind

To enter go to www.familieswest.co.uk Wednesday 21 November – Sunday 13 January

www.roomonthebroomlive.co.uk

Adapted for the stage from the best-selling bbook by Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson MBE and Axel Scheffler.

A magical, musical delight for children aged 3+

Closing Date: 15th November 9am

The witch and her cat are flying happily along on their broomstick when a stormy wind blows the witch’s hat, bow and wand away into the night. With the help of a daft dog, a beautiful bird and a friendly frog, her belongings are retrieved.

But this broomstick’s not meant for five and – CRACK! - it snaps in two! When a hungry dragon appears, who will save the poor witch? And will there ever be room on the broom for everyone?

WIN Tickets to this Christmas Use discount code 'FAMILIES' when you 'F shop online at www.babye.co.uk and receive 10% off on babyclothing.

FREE DELIVERY over £20 • FREE giftwrapping • Worldwide Shipping

Santa is coming to Odds Farm Park, and to celebrate we have a Family Ticket for 2 Adults and 2 Children to give away

For just £4 extra, every weekend in December and 24 December, children can visit Santa in his Magical Grotto and receive a Fantastic Gift!

Plus, every day from 1-24 December children can also choose a free chocolate treat from the Christmas Tree in the Gift Shop!

To enter go to www.familieswest.co.uk/competitions Closing date 30th November 2012

Win a family ticket to see Mini Lunn is a vintage inspired collection of 100% cotton nightwear, clothing and accessories for babies and children.

We specialise in children's cotton nightwear with fun themed embroidery of cupcakes, pirates, ballerinas and many more. Our cotton clothing is perfect for children with sensitive skin and is available at affordable prices.

Find us at www.minilunn.co.uk

November/December 2012

Exclusively for families magazine readers we are offering 10% discount until the 1st of January 2013.

Just enter this discount code FM12 at the checkout

24 November – 5 January To enter go to www.familieswest.co.uk/competitions Closing date 20th November 2012

The Hardups come to Hammersmith this Christmas as Cinderella seeks her Prince Charming. Now in its fourth year, traditional panto once again returns to the Lyric for another magical show.

Previously seen as the lovable Dick Whittington and the cheeky blue monkey Wishy Washy in Aladdin, Steven Webb returns by popular demand to play Buttons.

Joining him as the wicked stepmother is actress, comedian and presenter Mel Giedroyc and, as Cinderella, West End star Julie Atherton. Directing his first Lyric panto will be our award-winning Artistic Director Sean Holmes.

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Alternative Christmas

By Joanna Parry

There are many reasons why some of us find Christmas difficult, whether it be the loss of a family member, loneliness or the memories associated with the season. With the shops shut and attractions closed, you can feel like a prisoner in your own home with only endless episodes of East Enders for company. But whether you want to escape the festivities or are looking for a different way to spend Christmas this year, there are plenty of alternatives out there.

Get active and busy!

“A friend of mine who was single one year volunteered to help at one of the Crisis at Christmas lunch centres,” says Robina. “While we all admired her altruism, she said it was the best thing she'd ever done – rather than moping at home alone, she was helping other people, and came away appreciating what she did have, rather than what she didn't.”

While some charities shut up shop for the Christmas period, others, particularly those supporting the homeless, elderly or sick, are extremely busy, and are looking for people with a range of skills and backgrounds to do a whole host of different things this Christmas.

■ Help out at a soup kitchen or homeless shelter. Many shelters are set up especially for Christmas so they need extra volunteers to help give out clothing, look after luggage and perform cleaning and kitchen duties. Many also provide services such as hairdressing, dentistry and medical services so they need volunteers with these skills too. They even need musicians, magicians and entertainers! Crisis is one of the biggest homeless charities and over Christmas will need up to 8,000 volunteers nationwide ■ Manning a helpline. Helplines such as Samaritans and ChildLine can be a real lifeline at Christmas but they require volunteers to keep them running. Most involve a training programme before you start so get in contact as early as possible ■ Selling Christmas merchandise. Cards and gifts are great sources of income for charities but they usually need extra help selling them. Volunteer at your local charity shop or offer to sell to friends and family. Alternatively, contact Card Aid, a charity that produces Christmas cards for about 300 different charities. Throughout the UK there are around 30 Card Aid shops needing help over the festive period ■ Collecting for Christmas. Contact your favourite charity and offer to help with Christmas collections. You only need spare a few hours and there are no necessary skills to take part – just enthusiasm!

■ Help a lonely neighbour. There are many charities across the country working towards a community where neighbours look out for each other. They need your help this Christmas invite a lonely neighbour for lunch, help with transporting them to local services or do a few jobs around their house to make their lives easier ■ Donate food. FareShare is a national charity promoting the message 'No good food should be wasted'. Donate food at your nearest location or help with distribution and delivery ■ Be a DJ. Radio Lollipop provides entertainment and comfort for children in hospitals, which is especially important over Christmas. If you’re enthusiastic, positive and outgoing why not try this ■ Animal lover? Crisis at Christmas not only provides support to homeless people but their dogs too. Dogs suffer equally from a life on the streets so if you’re an animal lover this could be for you 12

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© Africa Studio – Fotolia.com

■ Keep it local. There are lots of organisations that need help within your community. Charities such as Age Concern or the Alzheimer's Society often require befrienders in their local centres, you can coordinate carol singing for Christian aid, and the Salvation Army is very active at this time of year. For opportunities in your area, visit www.do-it.org ■ Get loads more ideas to inspire you this Christmas at volunteering.org.uk and timebank.org.uk/christmasvolunteering

Get away from it all “The first Christmas after my mother died, I couldn't bear the idea of a big family Christmas at home without her,” says Annie, “so my husband booked us into the Grand Hotel in Brighton. The distraction of the Grand's celebrations, the sea air and being somewhere without memories turned what could have been sad into an occasion we still remember for all the right reasons.”

■ Book a cottage (or stay with a friend). Whether you’re on your own or with family, tuck yourself away for the holiday period ■ Go wild in a theme park. From Alton Towers to Thorpe Park, theme parks across the country offer exciting Christmas packages. Or for a more back-to-nature with many newcactivities to try, try Centerparcs ■ Hole up in a hotel. Forget tinsel and badly-decorated Christmas trees, many hotels from the Ritz in London to Thornbury Castle near Bristol offer festive breaks with a touch of glamour, with everything from champagne receptions to treasure hunts ■ See a city. Spending a few nights in York, where you can take a trip back in time wandering its Roman city walls, or taking a ride on the 33m high wheel in Edinburgh can fill the holiday period with history and excitement ■ Take a day trip. Why not spend Christmas Day at a National Trust or English Heritage property? Many are open on the day itself and will be given spectacular Christmas makeovers!

Several tour companies also run day trips to places such as Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath and Dover ■ Book a retreat. From Holy Island in Scotland to the Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre near Yeovil, Somerset, you can avoid the festivities and find peace over Christmas ■ Seek the sun or snow. If you’re after true escapism try diving in Egypt, skiing in the Rockies, partying in Moscow, soaking in the hot springs in Iceland or shopping in the spectacular markets of Cologne or Vienna. Be truly alternative and climb Mount Kilimanjaro, go horse-riding in Arizona or practise yoga in Goa ■ Volunteer abroad. The perfect solution – get away from it all while helping others. Companies such as www.statravel.co.uk, www.travelmatters.co.uk and www.handsupholidays.com offer holidays where you can do your bit, whether it’s painting houses in a favela in Rio de Janeiro or cleaning up a village in Borneo November/December 2012

November/December 2012

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Education

How to learn the times tables

By Elisabeth Dolton

Learning the times tables is an important skill that is the foundation for all maths. With an extensive maths curriculum, and the latest stipulation being that children should master their tables up to 12x12 by the age of nine, teachers need parents help in getting children to learn the basic facts. Finding a pain-free method of learning times tables is not easy, but these tips and techniques you should help make major progress.

Start with explaining the concept If your child understands that multiplication is repeated addition, they will have an easier time learning them.

Using objects such as crayons, illustrate a simple times table such as 3 X 2. Make two groups of three crayons, then count the crayons. Continue until they understand that multiplication is just adding a series of numbers, 6 x 4 means 6 added together 4 times (6 + 6 + 6 + 6).

Create a number line from 0 to 100. Show them the pattern to working out each multiple, i.e. the three times table answers are every third number. End by encouraging them to write out the times tables on paper, using addition, up to 12.

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November/December 2012

Education Show them the tricks of the trade Now they need to start learning the facts, rather than by counting. Learn the tricks of the trade first, e.g. any number times by 10 is the number with a zero on the end, e.g. 10 x 5 = 50. They are all listed on www.mathsisfun.com/tables.html

Further ways to help them memorise Your aim now is to recite memorized facts quickly and in any order.

If your child is a visual learner, purchase or make flashcards.

Write the problem, like 4 x 9, on the front, and the answer, 36, on the back. Buy or create a times table poster and display key facts.

Times tables raps and music CDs are great for an auditory learner. Chant the times tables as multiples 0, 5, 10, 15, etc. and also as sentences 1×5=5, 2×5=10, etc. Say difficult times tables in a funny voice, a squeak or a whisper. Use helpful rhymes to remember really tricky ones, e.g. 8 x 8 = 64 becomes “He ate and he ate and he sticks in the door, eight times eight is sixty-four”.

For a kinaesthetic approach, add actions. Children can clap, stamp or jump on the difficult fact. Play ‘Knock, Knock’ – knock your fists twice on the floor, then put out the number of fingers of a times tables. The winner is the first to say the answer.

Games to reinforce the multiplication facts After your child has a basic knowledge of the tables, games will help instil the recollection of correct facts quickly. Multiplication Bingo, Hoo Ha!, Know Your Times Tables and Math Whiz are great board games.

November/December 2012

There are a whole host of multiplication computer games – multiplication.com, Learn-timestables.com, themathsfactor.com, mathsisfun.com, maths-games.org, and computer apps such as Squeebles, Ghost Blasters, Multiple Wipeout.

Another idea is to print off worksheets from Multiplication. com or Enchanted Learning, math.about.com

Keep it fun Hallelujah! Your continued energy and enthusiasm is very important – go at their pace and always praise their efforts.

Aim to reward your children with every bit of progress made; it doesn’t have to be material things, just a bit of fun together.

Take breaks often, relax, give lots of ‘high fives’, and real compliments.

And keep it up!

After memorising times tables, it can be all too easy to forget them! Don’t give up too soon. It can take six or seven weeks until the facts are truly automatic. Practice quick-fire drilling.

There are numbers everywhere, so multiply the digits in number plates or in recipes. Print out a times table square and keep a record of the tables your child knows well, so you know which ones you need to focus on.

Whichever method you choose, there is never a truly pain-free answer because real fluency requires real practice over weeks and months. That said, it is important for your child to have a secure knowledge of the times tables with instant recall - their future maths skills depend on it. So take the challenge, make it happen, and enjoy it!

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Education Is your school ready?

by Joanna Parry

The demise of the GCSE Education Secretary Michael Gove is to replace the existing GCSE exam system with new, tougher qualifications in a major overhaul of the exam system. The new English baccalaureate – the EBacc – will replace GCSEs with single, more difficult examinations in the biggest change in the system for over 25 years. The new exams are likely to do away with the existing continuous assessment modules, will reintroduce the traditional 3-hour examinations and restrict the number of top grades awarded. In fact, one of the key aims is to remove starred grades entirely and make sure that far fewer pupils win the top grades compared with the 3 in 10 pupils who currently receive As and A-stars. Teenagers will also be prevented from re-sitting individual modules and will have to retake the entire exam if they want to improve their grades. The government insists that these changes will end “grade inflation and dumbing down” and comes after both Coalition parties have shown themselves keen to see the introduction of more rigorous teaching and exams in key subjects, however they are not scheduled for introduction until September 2018.

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This autumn Ofsted has issued new guidelines in regards to e-safety provisions in schools. From now on Ofsted will be concerned about how each school protects and educates its staff and students in their use of technology, plus ensuring there is support in place should any issues arise. Although many schools might already have existing policies in place, others will need to revise their priorities to include this immediately. E-safety is constantly changing but by empowering both students and teachers with enough know-how to identify online risks, we can make sure children, even at an early age, can protect themselves from abuse, cyberbullying and other internet threats throughout their school life and into adulthood.

School fees soar Many middle class families are being priced out of private education after school fees soared by more than twice the rate of inflation in a decade, according to new research. Figures show that the cost of independent schooling has leapt by nearly 70% in 10 years – more than 1.8 times the standard rate of inflation – with school fees now at an average of £11,500 per year. Some headteachers, let alone parents, are concerned that private schools risk pricing out an enormous number of families and becoming the “sole preserve of the super-rich,” as researchers warn that parents even in relatively wellpaid occupations might struggle to afford independent schools without financial help. Martin Stephen, ex-High Master of St Paul’s School, west London, said earlier this year that some schools were becoming as “socially exclusive” as they were in the Victorian era because of rising fee levels. However, many schools have denied that prices are being over-inflated, insisting that they merely reflect the increased cost of staffing and buildings, combined with record sums being invested in bursaries.

November/December 2012

Education

November/December 2012

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What's On There are lots more things to do in the 'What's On' section of our website. www.familieswest.co.uk To advertise in Families West please email adverts@familieswest.co.uk or phone 020 8930 4707

DIARY DATES LIGHTING UP REGENT STREET 13 Nov A new design for 2012 will light the night sky. Decorated with gold holly and red berry garlands, celebratory tributes to the Olympic and Paralympic teams will hang from the sky. The evening will begin with a choral performance followed by stars from the West End show Matilda entertaining the crowds. The stars will be joined on stage by over 30 medal winning Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

SIXTH FORM TASTER DAY AT ST AUGUSTINE’S PRIORY 14 Nov A chance for girls looking for a place at Sixth Form to spend the day with the current Lower Sixth. To book call the Registrar on 020 8997 2022 or e:registrar@staugustinespriory.org.uk www.saintaugustinespriory.co.uk IDEAL HOME SHOW AT CHRISTMAS 2012 14-18 Nov Shop from over 600 exhibitors across 6 sections covering everything: from furniture to festive food & drinks, home improvement to the latest gadgets, sumptuous gifts to beauty & fashion. Earls Court. 0844 209 7330 www.idealhomeshowchristmas.co.uk

Cooking Parties!

• Fun, cooking parties • For boys and girls aged 5-16 years • Cooking classes

Give your child the best party ever! whisking, baking, giggling, rolling, making, laughing, turning, licking, joking

A great way to learn while having fun!

Call for details:

0208 876 9912 email: info@cookiecrumbles.co.uk www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk

CHRISTMAS MARKETS ON THE SOUTHBANK 16 Nov - 24 Dec The wooden huts of the Southbank Centre Christmas Market will return to Queen's Walk along the river, with stalls to buy gifts, food and drink. Further festive food offerings can be found at the Real Food Christmas Market (14-16 December). Look out for the Christmas Chocolate Festival on Southbank Centre Square.

EALING NCT NEARLY NEW SALE 17 Nov 10-11.30am at St John's Church, Mattock Lane, W13 e:nearlynewsale.ealing@nct.org.uk 0844 2436114 ST JAMES'S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 21 Nov The Christmas Lights will be illuminated on Jermyn Street, and there will be two spectacularly decorated Christmas Trees outside St James's Church, Piccadilly. The Church will be hosting Carols by Candlelight with Christmas Readings on 22 Dec at 7:30pm.

OPEN DAY AT ST AUGUSTINE’S PRIORY (WHOLE SCHOOL) 21 Nov from 1.30-2.45.

St. Augustine’s Priory in Ealing is open to girls aged from 3-18 and boys aged 3-4.

To book call the Registrar on 020 8997 2022 or e:registrar@saintaugustinespriory.org.uk www.saintaugustinespriory.org.uk k CH CHRISTMAS DOLLSHOUSE FESTIVAL 24 Nov Over 170 exhibitors will be ppresenting their exquisite work in m miniature (1:12 scale), with a fun SSweetie Hunt and Gingerbread W Workshop for children from 1pm to 4p 4pm. 10.30am-5pm at Kensington Town Hall, Hornton Street, London W8 7NX.

Bring a copy of this magazine after 1pm on the day, to buy a special 'Family' ticket for £18 (2 adults and up to 4 children) at the door.

ST CLEMENT & ST JAMES CE PRIMARY SCHOOL PTA CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR 24 Nov 1-4pm, with free entry. A Winter Wonderland Christmas Dollshouse Festival themed fair with lots of exciting games and activities on offer, mulled wine and mince pies, bouncy castle, bottle tombola, candy floss and popcorn, hoopla, custard pie the teacher, an exciting raffle with lots of wonderful prizes and lots more. Plenty of local folks selling crafts for Christmas. To reserve a table contact Leslie on 0207 371 2091. Penzance Place, London W11 4PG CHISWICK & HAMMERSMITH NCT CHRISTMAS PARTY 24 Nov 10am to12 noon at Chiswick Town Hall. Christmas Market, free classes, balloon art, Santa's Grotto, face painting and more.

Limited tickets available at www.eventelephant.com/nctchristmas LIGHT UP THE LANE 25 Nov The start of the Christmas season in the Pitshanger area is marked each year by "Light Up The Lane", 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. The tree lights are lit every evening during the Christmas period. Pitshanger Lane, Ealing, W5.

OPEN DAY FOR YEAR 5 AND 6 ENTRY AT ST AUGUSTINE’S PRIORY 27 Nov from 1.30-2.45pm.

To book call the Registrar on 020 8997 2022 or e:registrar@saintaugustinespriory.org.uk www.saintaugustinespriory.org.uk EALING 135 CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR 1 Dec from 10:30am to 3pm at St John's Church, Mattock Lane, W13. Entry is £1/person or £2/family. Great selection of fabulous Christmas gifts, delicious homemade lunch and cakes, a hamper raffle, activities and taster sessions for the children and a visit from Santa. All proceeds go to Ealing 135's 2012/2013 charity: Ealing Churches Winter Night Shelter.

For more info, contact Bri at brianna.lhostis@gmail.com KITE STUDIOS ART EXHIBITION AND SALE 7 and 8 Dec Winter exhibition and sale in aid of Unique charity. (7 Dec 7-10pm and 8 Dec 10am-3pm.) www.kitestudios.org ACTON CHRISTMAS FAIR 8 Dec 10am-4pm, on the Mount (in front of Morrison’s.) The usual Saturday market joined by traders selling crafts, seasonal foods, decorations and other goodies along with community and charity stalls. Entertainment includes carol singers, jazz music and dance performances. Also an instant nativity play and Santa’s grotto.

BRAMLEYS BIG ADVENTURE CHRISTMAS PARTY DISCO 21 Dec A fancy dress disco for the kids and their family with goody bags, snack boxes and Father Christmas. £10 per child 5-7pm 020 8960 1515 www.bramleysbig.co.uk

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November/December 2012

What's On

Kensington Palace

DAYS OUT BARBICAN CENTRE Silk Street EC2Y 8DS 0845 120 7550 barbican.org.uk To Jan 2013 EVERYTHING WAS MOVING: PHOTOGRAPHY FROM THE 60S AND 70S – from renowned photographers including Bruce Davidson, William Eggleston and Li Zhensheng.

To 28 Feb 2013. RAIN ROOM An astonishing installation giving visitors the chance to experience what it’s like to control the rain.

1 to 30 Nov. LONDON CHILDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL An event that makes you wish you were young again, with opportunities galore for kids to explore, touch and see for themselves. Screenings, events and workshops bring alive the art of filmmaking in all its guises.

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN HOUSE 36 Craven Street WC2N 5NG 020 7839 2006 benjaminfranklinhouse.org 15 Dec CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY, 11am-1pm With Christmas just around the corner, children will discover the magic of the holiday – 18th century style – with traditional carols, crafts and treats. Suitable for 5-11 year olds. Tickets: £5 per child, free for adults

HAMPTON COURT PALACE Hampton Court, East Molesey. Surrey, KT8 9AU 0870 758 8080 hrp.org.uk HENRY’S CROWN A magnificent recreation of Henry VIII’s imperial crown – an engaging and impressive finale to the current Tudor route at Hampton Court.

1-2 Dec. LIVE TUDOR COOKERY – Which dishes make a Tudor tummy rumble?

Experience real smells and sounds in Henry VIII’s Kitchens as the team of history chefs prepare a feast fit for a king.

1 Dec – 13 Jan 2013. ICE SKATING Celebrate 10 years of winter skating at the truly splendid setting of Henry VIII’s Tudor Palace

November/December 2012

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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What's On HMS BELFAST The Queen’s Walk SE1 2JH 020 7940 6300 iwm.org.uk

www.nanniesunite.com The website for nannies, mannies, au-pairs, childminders and the place to meet other childcare professionals to find all the information they need about babies and children at the click of a button.

Email: contactus@nanniesunite.com

24-25 Nov. SLANG AT SEA A look at navy slang and the origin of popular phrases that link to life at sea and the importance of the navy in British history and culture. 11am and 2pm, free

KEW GARDENS www.kew.org 8 Dec-6 Jan DAVID NASH AT KEW: A NATURAL GALLERY. Magnificent sculptures, nestled amid the winter landscape.

8-9 and 15-16 Dec COCOA AND CONVERSATION Drop-in, 11am-12.30pm and 2-4pm. Tales from across the waves. Find out more about the story of HMS Belfast and the company that sailed on her various journeys and have a sip of warming naval hot chocolate.

GUN TURRET EXPERIENCE – A chance to see what fighting at sea would have really been like.

INTERACTIVE OPERATIONS ROOM Imagine what it would have been like to control HMS Belfast from the Operations room, the nerve centre and brain of the entire ship.

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND

Kew Gardens

CHRISTMAS WINTER WONDERLAND AT KEW 8-23 Dec See Father Christmas in his grotto 12 noon-3.30pm, have your face painted, take a ride on the vintage carousel or take a spin in the mini vintage car ride. See Kew’s beautifully decorated Christmas tree at Victoria Gate.

Winter Wonderland

23 Nov – 6 Jan. HYDE PARK GOES ALL CHRISTMASSY with the sparkly additions of rides, attractions and the Magical Ice Kingdom, a spectacular ice and snow sculpture experience, unique to the UK. Plus, the UK’s largest outdoor Ice Age 4 Ice Rink, iconic Giant Observation Wheel, Angels Christmas Market and new Yuletide Market and Santa Land for the younger visitors.

Zippos Circus will make a welcome return too www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

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8 Dec-6 Jan (on Weds, Fri and Sun 12-2pm) Hands on Sessions-Kew’s volunteer guides will be offering free sessions in the Orangery, where families can learn about the “Twelve trees of Christmas”- plants and trees symbolic of the festive season, taking inspiration from the traditional Christmas song, the ‘Twelve days of Christmas.’ Trail guides for the festive trees also available from the gate.

26 Dec-mid Jan RECYCLE – BRING YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE (minus decorations) to Brentford Gate during opening times and have it recycled for free by our arboretum team.

26 Dec-6 Jan STORYTELLING SESSIONS with shadow puppetry. 11am-3pm.

KENSINGTON PALACE

LONDON EYE

Kensington Gardens W6 4PX 0844 482 7777 hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace

Minster Court SE1 7JB 0870 990 8881 londoneye.com

1 Dec-2 Jan CHRISTMAS AT KENSINGTON See Kensington Palace in a new light as it is transformed into a palace-sized advent calendar for all the family. The programme will include a surprise daily reveal and performance throughout Dec, inspired by Queen Victoria’s childhood at the palaces. Carol singing, mulled wine and mince pies and a special eerie evening tour.

17 Nov-6 Jan EYESKATE at one of London’s most breathtaking and iconic landmarks, situated on the fabulously festive South Bank. 45 minute sessions, skate hire available, stabilising seals available for younger children. Kids go free in Nov and selected dates in Dec when buying a family ticket.

LONDON ZOO Outer Circle, Regent’s Park NW1 4RY 020 7722 3333 zsi.org

To advertise in Families West please email adverts@ familieswest.co.uk or phone 020 8930 4707

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15 Nov FIRE WALK Watch members of the public take part in firewalking. Spectator tickets are £5 for adults and £3 for children.

Book beforehand.

17 Nov-24 Dec MEET SANTA in his Reindeer Lodge, a custom-designed grotto built in a fairytale setting. See reindeer up close in their festive paddock. Suitable for children 10 years and under.

November/December 2012

What's On OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Rd, Isleworth, Middx 020 8232 5050 nationaltrust.info Gardens are open every day from 8am-6pm, house and café open Weds-Suns 12.30-4.30pm.

Spectacular mansion surrounded by gardens, park and farmland. Lovely place for a family walk followed by a piece of cake and a cup of tea.

There are lots more things to do in the 'What's On' section of our website.

www.familieswest.co.uk To advertise in Families West please email adverts@familieswest.co.uk or phone 020 8930 4707

1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16 Dec CHRISTMAS AT OSTERLEY PARK HOUSE See Osterley Park House decorated for Christmas and see preparations for the festivities taking place below stairs. Normal Admission charges apply.

No booking required.

2, 9, 16 Dec CHRISTMAS CAROLS IN THE PARK Bring the family for a rousing rendition of popular Christmas Carols led by local choirs – song sheets will be provided and no experience necessary. Free. No booking required.

Tower of London

ROYAL OBSERVATORY GREENWICH Greenwich SE10 9NF 020 8858 4422, rmg.co.uk

WWT WETLANDS CENTRE

To Feb 2013. ASTRONOMY PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR 2012 EXHIBITION – See the spectacular winning images – from distant galaxies to our very own Milky Way, the entries reflect our enduring fascination with the night sky.

Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 wwt.org.uk/visit-us/london

SYON HOUSE AND GARDENS London Road, Middlesex TW8 8JG 020 8758 1888 syonpark.co.uk 16 Nov to 2 Dec (Fri, Sat and Sun) ENCHANTED WOODLAND from 5-9pm.

Adults £7, children £3. Thousands of lights illuminate your way while you take a magical stroll through the woods. Warm clothing and stout footwear recommended.

TOWER OF LONDON Tower Hill EC3 0844 482 7799 hrp.org.uk 7, 14, 21, 28 Nov. TOWER TWILIGHT TOURS Dare to take an evening tour of the Tower, taking in the gruesome sights and spooky stories which make it famous. 12yrs+, £25 17 Nov – 6 Jan. ICE SKATING Glide around the rink in the moat of one of London’s most iconic landmarks. £8.50-£13 To 31 Dec. ROYAL BEASTS For 600 years, wild and exotic beasts were held captive in the Tower.

Discover why they were imprisoned and experience how they would have lived at the Royal Menagerie.

November/December 2012

10 Nov – 16 Dec WINTER WEEKEND FAMILY ACTIVITIES 10.30 - 12 NATURE CRAFTS: Pomanders, scent cushions, collages and badges.

Make your own traditional pomander, or make a scent-stuffed cushion. Alternatively, make collages and badges, keyrings, mirrors and magnets (£1 charge for some items). Age 3+ 11am and 2pm OTTER FEEDING 12.30 and 3pm POND DIPPING 3pm BIRD FEED WITH A WARDEN 8 – 9 Dec WINTER WONDERLAND WEEKEND Visit FC and his huskies and have a free husky sleigh ride! (for ages 8 and under.) Merlin the magician, storytellers and arts and crafts sessions for all ages. 10am-4pm. (£5 to see FC)

WARNER BROS STUDIO TOUR: THE MAKING OF HARRY POTTER Warner Bros Studio, Aerodrome Way, Leavesden, Watford, Herts WD25 7LS 08450 840 900 wbstudiotour.co.uk To 6 March 2013. Walk through sets including the Great Hall, Dumbledore's office, Gryffindor common room and Hagrid's hut. £28/£21

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What's On MUSEUMS, GALLERIES AND EXHIBITIONS BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM Threadneedle Street EC2R 8AH 020 7601 5545 bankofengland.co.uk/museum 17 Dec-4 Jan. JIGSAW JAPES Draw your favourite museum object such as a banknote, gold bar or old iron chest on a pre-cut jigsaw to take home. 10am-4.30pm. (24 and 31 Dec until 1pm.)

BRITISH MUSEUM Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG 020 7323 8299 britishmuseum.org 24 Nov. KIDS IN MUSEUM’S TAKEOVER DAY Young Friends of the British Museum will share what they love about the Museum and what kids think of some of the world-famous objects.

Free, drop in. 10am-3pm.

To 25 Nov. SHAKESPEARE STAGING THE WORLD Discover the world of William Shakespeare and the emerging role of London as a global city through objects and contemporary performance. £12/£14, under 16s free.

To 6 Jan. RENAISSANCE TO GOYA: PRINTS AND DRAWINGS FROM SPAIN Prints and drawings by Spanish and European artists working in Spain from the mid-16th to mid-19th century, many of which have never been on display before.

To 20 Jan. FLAME AND WATER POTS: PRE-HISTORIC CERAMIC ART FROM JAPAN A display of three pots made by the Jomon people, a culture which produced some of the oldest pottery in the world.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ 020 7841 3600 foundlingmuseum.org.uk To 16 Dec. RECEIVED, A BLANK CHILD: DICKENS, BROWNLOW AND THE FOUNDLING HOSPITAL Exploring the facts and fictions that link the life and work of Charles Dickens and Secretary of the Foundling Hospital in the 1850s John Brownlow, while illuminating the life of the Hospital during the Victorian age.

GRANT MUSEUM OF ZOOLOGY Rockefeller Building, University College London, University Street, WC1E 6DE 020 3108 2052 ucl.ac.uk/museums/whats-on/grant_listings Until 1 Dec I FOUND THIS... An installation of objects that staff have made discoveries about.

Each member of the team has selected a single object that they have added to the understanding of, and told the tale of their discovery.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ 020 7416 5320/5321 iwm.org.uk 24 Nov. CECIL BEATON: VOGUE AND WARTIME FASHION Curator talk, from 2pm. £12/£11 To 30 Nov. WAR STORY First-hand experiences of British service personnel currently serving in Afghanistan.

To 1 Jan 2013. A FAMILY IN WARTIME Experience life on the Home Front through the eyes of one London family To 1 Jan 2013. CECIL BEATON: THEATRE OF WAR A major new exhibition exploring the impact of the Second World War on photographer, designer, writer, cartoonist, diarist and socialite Cecil Beaton’s life and work. £6/£8, under 15s free

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Royal Hospital Road SW3 4HT 020 7730 0717 nam.ac.uk

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NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY St Martin’s Place WC2H 0HE 020 7306 0055 npg.org.uk Until 17 Feb 2013 TAYLOR WESSING PHOTOGRAPHIC PORTRAIT PRIZE A collection of 60 portraits showcasing the work of talented young photographers and gifted amateurs alongside that of established professionals and photography students.

17 Nov. STORYTELLING FOR FAMILIES – THE CASE OF THE MISSING MUSIC. Followed by a fun art activity. 10.30am and 1.30pm for age 3+ 17 Nov FAMILY ART WORKSHOP Explore portraits in the Collection followed by an art activity. 11.30am and 2.30pm for age 5+

To March 2013. WAR HORSE: FACT AND FICTION A major new exhibition exploring the true history behind the popular War Horse novel - exciting interactive displays, exclusive costumes and props from the Spielberg-directed film, and material from War Horse author, Michael Morpurgo and the National Theatre.

VICTORIAN SOLDIERS ACTION ZONE Quizzes, games and hands-on activities help you learn about life as a Victorian Soldier and the part they played in the shaping of Britain’s Empire.

KID’S ZONE A new children’s play area exploring aspects of army life from camping to clothing, with a dedicated soft play space for babies, art and crafts and dressing-up costumes.

Small fee applies

NATIONAL GALLERY Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN 020 7747 2894/2885 nationalgallery.org.uk Free Family events every Sunday except on 23 and 30 Dec. In celebration of the upcoming Seduced by Art photography exhibition, this season of family events considers different ways of seeing and looking through diverse media.

WORKSHOPS AND DRAWING SESSIONS For families with children aged 5 to 11, 11am and 2pm

HUNTERIAN MUSEUM

Say that you saw it mentioned in Families West Magazine

Nov 18 MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For ages 2-5. 10.30 and 11.30am – Musical Magic Carpets

To Jan 2013. JUBILEE: 60 YEARS OF THE SOVEREIGN AND HER SOLDIERS A display exploring different aspects of the relationship between the Queen and her Army.

Royal College of Surgeons, 35-43 Lincoln's Inn Fields WC2A 3PE 020 7869 6560 rcseng.ac.uk/museums To 21 Dec. ANATOMY OF AN ATHLETE New artworks that explore the anatomy and physiology of elite athletics. Free

25 Nov FIVE-LEAF VISTA Explore the unexpected layers of a painting, and create your own book.

National Portrarit Gallery

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road SW7 5BD 020 7942 5000 nhm.ac.uk To 3 March. VEOLIA ENVIRONMENT WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR Revealing nature photography in its purest form, this collection of images combines the work of talented young photographers with leading lights of the profession from around the globe.

Saturdays and Sundays in Nov and Dec. HANDS-ON NATURE Visit the handling station and explore some interesting specimens with the help of specialist science educators. 2-5pm ANIMAL VISION FOR FAMILIES This show featuring live animals reveals a world only visible to certain reptiles and invertebrates. See how adaptations in snakes iguanas and chameleons allow them to escape predators and locate prey.

Find out how bees can detect ultraviolet light to help the process of pollination.

To 6 Jan. ICE RINK Skate at London’s most enchanting ice rink for a truly magical experience this winter. Tickets sell out very quickly!

National Gallery

18 Nov SLOW, FAST, SQUIGGLE, SMUDGE Experiment with fast squiggles and slow lines in this drawing session.

15 Dec DINO CLAUS Santa has sent his elves to the Natural History Museum for one night only.

Children can experience a special festive edition of Dino Snores sleepover. For ages 8-11 with accompanying adult.

November/December 2012

What's On SIR JOHN SOANE’S MUSEUM 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields, WC2A 3BP 020 7440 4263 soaneeducation.org.uk 2 Jan ILLUMINATIONS FOR THE NEW YEAR Light up the New Year by making spectacular lanterns in different shapes, sizes and colours and finish by parading through the park. Age 7+ 10.30am-3pm.

29 Dec-6 Jan FESTIVE POP-UP PERFORMANCE 11am, 1 and 3pm. The dance from the renowned ballet The Nutcracker will be performed on weekends and during the week there will be Gallery plays. Ages 4+ Also, pick up a Back-pack filled with jigsaws, stories and games, an agent animal bag developed especially for under 5’s, or get creative at a drop-in design station. Look out for the activity cart full of hands-on art fun for children to create collages and pictures.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA 020 8983 5200 museumofchildhood.org.uk

Natural History Museum

SCIENCE MUSEUM Exhibition Road SW7 2DD 0870 870 4868 sciencemuseum.org.uk Until 21 Dec LIVE SCIENCE IN THE WHO AM I? GALLERY. (Thurs, Fri and Sun) Ever fancied taking part in a real scientific experiment? Come and meet researchers from Queen Mary, University of London who need volunteers to help them with a new experiment which explores our attitudes towards sharing and fairness. Visitors will be invited to play a game against each other where they can allocate, distribute or even confiscate small prizes to and from each other. All ages.

A COCKROACH TOUR OF THE MUSEUM Visitors take on the form of cockroaches, dressing up in realistic costumes to begin a journey through the Museum, exploring the impact on the climate of scientific and technological developments from the perspective of a cockroach. The humorous tour takes visitors through the Museum’s world-class galleries. The Cockroach Tour is an artwork by a Danish art group called Superflex, a group of artists and designers whose work highlight global issues and suggests alternative ideas and solutions. The Cockroach Tours run every Saturday and Sunday, to book a place call: 0870 870 4868.

Sir John Soane's Museum

3 Jan MAGIC BOX John Soane loved to use mirrors to reflect light. Make your own reflective box and watch things disappear before your eyes! Age 7+ 10.30am-3pm.

TATE BRITAIN Millbank SW1P 4RG 020 7887 8888 tate.org.uk/britain 17, 18, 24, 25 Nov. LIMINAL Engage with sculpture through touch, interaction and collaboration. All ages, 11am-3pm To 6 Jan. TURNER PRIZE 2012 £10, concessions available To 13 Jan 2012. PRE-RAPHAELITES: VICTORIAN AVANT-GARDE Combining rebellion, beauty, scientific precision and imaginative grandeur, the Pre-Raphaelites constitute Britain’s first modern art movement.

TATE MODERN Bankside SE1 9TG 020 7887 8888 tate.org.uk Weekends in Nov and Dec. Open Studio Explore, experiment, play and create with ideas and materials from artworks in the collection.

11am-4pm, all ages Under 5s Zone A play space for under 5s, inviting children on a creative, physical and sensory exploration of themes inspired by Cubist art works. Free

V&A MUSEUM Cromwell Road SW7 2RL 020 7942 2000 vam.ac.uk

Science Museum

CHRISTMAS AT THE SCIENCE MUSEUM Create your own greeting cards where you connect your drawing to a battery and lightbulb and see your design light up! Drop in on our snowflake making workshop, watch the Science Museum’s drama characters or catch one of our special Christmas shows – which will be performed twice daily during the holiday period.

November/December 2012

Until 27 Jan HOLLYWOOD COSTUME Some of the greatest costumes designed for the most well known cinema characters over a century of film making. From Judy Garland’s blue and white gingham pinafore dress featured in The Wizard of Oz (1939) and the little black dress designed by Hubert De Givenchy for Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) to Johnny Depp’s outfit from Pirates of the Caribbean (2011), it explores the art of costume design. £14 29 Dec-6 Jan THE IMAGINATION STATION An opportunity for children to create imaginative Victorian Christmas decorations using a variety of materials. Ages 3+

Until April 13 MODERN BRITISH CHILDHOOD 1948-2012 The transformation of childhood in Britain during the 64 years between the London Olympic Games of 1948 and 2012.

Displays of artworks, clothing, toys, books, childcare items, television programmes, film and photography with objects ranging from a pair of 1950s children’s NHS prescription glasses to the 2005 Teddy mobile phone designed for the under 5s, highlighting the huge changes that have occurred in children’s lives over the decades.

Weekends in Dec CHRISTMAS CRAFTS AND SEASONAL STORIES A creative re-telling of The Nutcracker, make crackers, baubles, retro decorations and cards. Drop-in, all ages 29 and 30 Dec MIRROR MIRROR’S CHRISTMAS FAIRYTALES MAGIC LANTERN SHOW A magic lantern show including atmospheric festive storytelling. After the show children can take a closer look at the slides to see how the Magic Lantern works. £3 per person, all ages. Booking from 7 Dec 020 89835205/mocbookings@vam.ac.uk

THE WALLACE COLLECTION Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN 020 7563 9500 wallacecollection.org To March 2013. MAKING THE RENAISSANCE SWORD Featuring stages in the construction of a rapier, this display reveals that the Renaissance swordsmith relied on a unique tradition of craftsmanship dating back to the early Middle Ages.

23 Nov TAKEOVER DAY TOUR 1pm To celebrate the Children’s Commissioner’s National Takeover Day, Young Curators from St Vincent’s Primary School will take charge of the Museum’s front of house and guiding duties for the day. Let them greet you and then bring you on an interactive tour of the museum. Explore the Collection through new eyes and handle objects as they guide you through its intriguing corridors and magnificent rooms.

The Wallace Collection

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Theatre Theatres in West London ARTS THEATRE London WC2H 7JB 020 7836 8463 artstheatrewestend.co.uk AMBASSADORS THEATRE West Street, London WC2H 9ND 08448 112 334 theambassadorstheatre.co.uk

Win a family ticket to see Room on the Broom on page 11

BECK THEATRE Grange Road, Hayes, Middlesex. UB3 2UE 020 8561 8371 becktheatre.org.uk BLOOMSBURY THEATRE 15 Gordon Street, London WC1H 0AH 020 7388 8822 thebloomsbury.com

HORRIBLE HISTORIES – BARMY BRITAIN

CRITERION THEATRE 218-223 Piccadilly Circus, London W1V 9LB 0844 847 1778 criterion-theatre.com or www.peggapiglive.com

Until 6 Jan An entertaining adaptation of Terry Deary's children's books. 6+yrs.

DUCHESS THEATRE 3-5 Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5LA 0844 482 9672 nimaxtheatres.com/duchess-theatre GARRICK THEATRE Charing Cross Road WC2H 0HH 0844 482 9673 nimaxtheatres.com HEOS Greenford Hall, Ruislip Road, Greenford, Middx, UB6 9QN 07758 841523 heos.org.uk LONDON PALLADIUM Argyll Street W1F 7TF 0844 412 4655 seetickets.com LYRIC HAMMERSMITH Lyric Square, King Street, London W6 0OL. 020 8741 6850 lyric.co.uk LYRIC THEATRE Shaftsbury Avenue, London W1D 7ES 0844 412 4661 roomonthebroomlive.co.uk NATIONAL THEATRE South Bank SE1 9PX 020 7452 3000 nationaltheatre.org.uk PEACOCK THEATRE Portugal Street, London WC2A 2HT 0870 737 0337/0844 847 1707 sadlerswell.com PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Little Venice, Blomfield Road, London W9 2PF 020 7249 6876 puppetbarge.com RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7651 ambassadortickets.com/richmond

GARRICK THEATRE

RAPUNZEL AND THE TOWER OF DOOM 10 Nov Poor Rapunzel spends her days locked in a tower by a wicked witch. A favourite fairy tale is brilliantly retold with enchanting puppets and fun storytelling. 11am and 1pm for ages 4-10. Messy Play at noon and 2pm.

THE MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN 306 - 310 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd’s Bush, London W12 7LJ 020 8932 2652 musichouseforchildren.co.uk UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com 24

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

LYRIC THEATRE

THE TEAR THIEF 21 Nov-2 Dec Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy’s book The Tear Thief is brought to life in this beautiful adaptation, with stunning puppetry from the Little Angel Theatre and live music. For ages 4-7.

UNICORN THEATRE

STUCK 24 and 25 Nov Oliver Jeffers’ brand new children’s book brought to life. Find out if little Floyd will ever manage to get his kite unstuck.

Messy Play session after each show.

For ages 3-7.

BOTTOM’S DREAM 11-24 Nov Shakespeare’ fairies and rustics perform and will delight. Suitable for adult and 8+ PUPPET THEATRE BARGE

BURNING BIRD

SHAW THEATRE 100-110 Euston Road, London NW1 2AJ shaw-theatre.com

ST JAMES THEATRE 12 Palace Street SW1E 5JA 0844 264 2140 stjamestheatre.co.uk

21 Nov-13 Jan A spellbinding adventure from the creators of The Gruffalo! How the cat purred and how the witch grinned as they sat on their broomstick and flew through the wind. Adapted for the stage from the bestselling book by children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

RIVERSIDE STUDIOS Crisp Road, Hammersmith, London W6 9RL 020 8237 2010 riversidestudios.co.uk

SOUTHBANK CENTRE Belvedere Road SE1 8PX 020 7960 4200 / 0844 847 9944 southbankcentre.co.uk

ROOM ON THE BROOM M

14 – 17 Nov Set against the backdrop of the London riots, Burning Bird explores what it means to be young in the city. For ages 14+ UNICORN THEATRE

GRIMM TALES 17 Nov Playful and mischievous tales by the Brothers Grimm including Hansel & Gretel and Ashputtel, the original Cinderella, for slightly older ones. 11am and 1pm for ages 6-11. Messy play at noon and 2pm.

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER 25 Nov13 Jan Set in a Tudor London, Tom Canty has a chance meeting with the young heir to the throne, Prince Edward – and by pure coincidence they find they look almost identical. Mark Twain’s classic tale of confused identities tells the story of what happens when the one is mistaken for the other: Tom Canty is forced into the world of the court and power, while Edward is cast down into a world of poverty and thieves, from which he must fight his way back to the Court. For ages 6+ UNICORN THEATRE November/December 2012

Theatre KORALL KORAL

TOM’S MIDNIGHT GARDEN

SOOTY IN SPACE

30 Nov – 2 Dec Enter a magical, shell-shaped tent for an entrancing performance of music and song for babies under 18 months.

12 Dec-19 Jan Philippa Pearce’s masterpiece adapted by David Wood. Tom has always been told it’s impossible to travel back in time, but when the grandfather clock in the hallway chimes thirteen times, Tom is transported to a secret garden from the past. For ages 4+

21 Dec-5 Jan 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 Blastoff! Sooty, Sweep, Soo and Richard in a Spectacular festive adventure with magic and lots of audience participation.

ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL

SEUSSICAL 4 Dec-6 Jan Join The Cat in the Hat on a journey into the world of Dr Seuss.

ARTS THEATRE

BLOOMSBURY THEATRE

GOOD INTENTIONS 15/16 Dec Who can resist temptation?

Do good intentions always lead to good outcomes? Good Intentions asks questions like these as we follow a group of school children on a journey to hell and back.

They’re tempted by instant popularity, celebrity status, must-have brands and the desire to fit in and give up their individuality.

Will they succumb or will they save their schoolmates?

IN A PICKLE 6 Dec-6 Jan A voyage of discovery through the landscapes of Shakespeare’s imagination for the very young.

For ages 2-5.

DUCHESS THEATRE

CLOUD MAN 22 Dec – 6 Jan A magical winter show featuring a blend of puppetry, storytelling and music. Age 4-7, in Blue Room SOUTHBANK CENTRE

Performed by W11 Opera for Young People.

For ages 5+

UNICORN THEATRE

PEPPA PIG’S TREASURE HUNT 6 Dec-6 Jan Puppets and sing-along songs in this new Peppa story.

RIVERSIDE STUDIOS

SLAVA’S SNOWSHOW 17 Dec – 7 Jan The clowning spectacular returns to the Royal Festival Hall with giant snowballs and indoor blizzards. Age 8+ SOUTHBANK CENTRE

CRITERION THEATRE

HANSEL AND GRETEL 7 Dec-26 Jan Two children lost in the woods... a trail of breadcrumbs... and a bewitching house made of sweets, Katie Mitchell returns to the National Theatre to stage the classic fairytale suitable for 7 – 10-year-olds.

NATIONAL THEATRE

November/December 2012

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Health

The growing problem of obesity in the UK with 31% of children now classified as overweight and the rising incidence of Type 2 diabetes, once associated with old people, also points to the overconsumption of sugar in children’s daily diet. Excess sugar rots teeth and let’s not forget, poor memory, low moods and depression all have been linked to the over-consumption of sugar. The recognisable 'sugar high' you get after eating sugar resulting in more energy and improved mood is temporary. After some time, the body crashes, energy levels plummet, leaving lethargy and tiredness. Further effects can include hyperactivity in children, crankiness and eczema.

Excessive Sugar Addictive, unwholesome and everywhere: The toxic truth about sugar in our children’s diet

So, as we scratch our heads on how to get our kids to eating less sweets and exercising more, perhaps we also need to start looking more closely at what are putting on their plates at meal and snack times.

Some shocking culprits

By Elisabeth Dolton

1.5l bottle of Volvic Touch of Fruit Lemon and Lime – 16 ½ teaspoons of sugar McDonald’s milkshake – 16 teaspoons Orangina 500ml – 13 teaspoons Tesco Pure Orange Juice Smooth, 250ml – 6 teaspoons Dolmio Bolognese sauce, 500g – 6 teaspoons Walls soft scoop vanilla ice cream, 200ml – 4 ½ teaspoons Serving of Kellogg’s Frosties – 4 teaspoons Two McVities Jaffa Cakes – 3 teaspoons Muller Light Strawberry yoghurt, 175g – 2 ½ teaspoons

So you sent your child off to school this morning on a full bowl of cereal and some fresh orange juice. Thinking this is a good start to the day, you may have already given them over half their recommended daily allowance of sugar. This scenario is common across many families. Over the past 10 years the use of sugar in foods has undergone a transformation, resulting in us potentially providing a diet for our children that contains too much sugar than their bodies can cope with.

A silent revolution Essentially, the mass development of a cheap, highly sweet, glucosefructose syrup, produced from surplus corn, started in the 70’s, and was soon pumped into every conceivable food: pizza, coleslaw, meat. It provides a "just baked" sheen on bread and cakes, makes everything sweeter, and helps to keep foods moist so extends shelf life from days to years. At the same time low fat foods were being embraced by dieters, so as fat was taken out of foods, sugar replaced it to maintain taste. Unsurprisingly, sugar consumption has trebled worldwide over the last 50 years, and this purified sugar (known as ‘added’ sugar) is now an alarmingly major part of the Western diet. As a result, the amount of sugar going into our bodies has been silently revolutionised.

(Source: Dailymail.co.uk)

How to spot a high sugar food?

Look for ‘Total sugars’ on the label which include natural and added sugar. A food with less than 5g ‘total sugars’ per 100g is classified as low, more than 15g per 100g is high

Reducing added sugar in your family’s diet •

Remember natural sugars are good – Soak apricots, whizz them in a blender, and use that to sweeten foods Ensure every meal includes protein. Have meat, fish, vegetable or salad with pasta or pizza, so your child is getting everything for the body to function properly Eat from scratch. Eat real food not processed food – Porridge with a dash of honey has everything a young child needs to start off the day Make your own pasta sauce, stuffed with lots of pureed vegetables (carrots, peppers, greens.) Make a large batch then freeze on small portions Make smoothies using a hand blender and a jug. Add in a vegetable, e.g. avocado and strawberry. Cheaper and as good as any supermarket brand Children eat what is there. Keep sugary snacks and junk food out of the house, instead offer oat biscuits, hummus, chopped vegetables, Whole Earth peanut butter

•

Unavoidable UK guidelines recommend that added sugars shouldn’t make up more than around 50g a day, equivalent to ten teaspoons of sugar for adults and nine for five to ten-year-olds. Added sugar is now found in almost all processed foods and not just obviously sweet foods – glucose-fructose syrup is found in everyday products, such as cereal, salad dressing, sausages, making it easy to send our children over the recommended limit, sometimes with just one product.

•

•

•

Increasing addiction Moreover, recent research has been looking into a worrying trend that the more sugar we eat, the more we want, and concluding that the addictive nature of sugar for our children is much higher than previously thought. Added sugar dulls the brain’s mechanism that tells you to stop eating, by reducing activity in the brain’s anorexigenic oxytocin system that gives the body the ‘full’ feeling. Without this, our appetite becomes insatiable, making it very easy to overeat.

•

Further information •

The dangers “Sugar is ubiquitous, and the problem with refined sugar as opposed to natural sugar,” says Tracey Harper, Nutritional Therapist, “is that this sugar is an empty food with the goodness striped away, so when eaten it actually robs the body of vital nutrients, resulting in a depleted immune system.” She goes on to explain that sugar feeds bad bacteria in the gut, the gut lining becomes exposed, so toxins can enter the blood stream, causing allergens to develop and other auto-immune deficiencies. Studies confirm this, showing that excess sugars cause a fifty-percent drop in the ability of white blood cells to fight off bacteria.

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• • • • • • •

Thanks to Tracey Harper for her contribution to the article and great tips for reducing sugar in children’s diet – www.traceyharpernutrition.co.uk info@traceyharpernutrition.co.uk www.nhs.uk/livewell/goodfood/pages/sugars.aspx www.nhs.uk/livewell/goodfood/pages/food-labelling.aspx www.bbc.co.uk/health www.myhealthnewsdaily.com www.telegraph.co.uk/health/dietandfitness www.nhs.uk/change4life www.hungryforchange.tv/sugar-is-a-drug Jamie Oliver’s TED Award speech November/December 2012

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November/December 2012