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Contents
S ry ol cho
Julia ’s M
ssori Nurs e t e on
Small and caring pre-school in Hampton Ages 2 to 5 Teaches Early Years Foundation Stage. Curriculum and Montessori Method.
Page 4 Page 6 Page 8 Page 9 Page 19 Page 23 Page 29 Page 32 Page 34 Page 35 Page 38
Health and Wellbeing Parenting Family food and Nutrition Education Focus Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond Halloween and Autumn Term Outings Autumn Half Term Workshops and Activities Classes and Clubs Parties What’s On Local Theatre
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FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLBEING DEALING WITH NAPPY RASH By Dr Robert Arlt
Nappy rash is a skin inflammation, most commonly suffered by babies between one and four weeks old. It generally starts in the folds of the skin and is caused by a reaction to urine and stools. In addition, thrush is often present in a baby’s bowel and thrives on the inflamed, warm and damp skin caused by nappy rash. It causes tiny white spots, followed by bigger red spots with a fine line around them. These may weep and cause a baby pain. How Serious is Nappy Rash? Most cases are mild or moderate. However, occasionally, conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, infection and some rare skin diseases can cause unusual nappy rashes, which may spread to the face and head and cause generalised lymph gland swelling. How to Treat Nappy Rash ✿ Leave off your baby’s nappy whenever you can to let fresh air get to the skin. Lay your baby on a towel or
disposable absorbent sheet for a period of time each day, changing this as soon as it becomes wet. ✿ Change your baby’s nappy frequently, ideally as soon as it is wet or soiled, to prevent skin being in contact with urine and stools for long periods. ✿ Dry your baby’s bottom thoroughly after washing, by patting, not rubbing, with a towel. ✿ Avoid talcum powder, which may irritate the skin and tight-fitting plastic pants over nappies which retain moisture. ✿ Zinc-based barrier creams or ointments from the chemist may help protect the skin from moisture. Rub on a thin layer before putting on each nappy. Don’t over-apply, as this may reduce the ‘breathability’ of the nappy. What if the Nappy Rash Worsens? If the nappy rush doesn’t clear up or worsens, consult your GP or health visitor. If thrush is present, you may need to use an antifungal cream, which you should continue to use for 7 to 10 days after the rash has cleared. Sometimes the cream is required for more than two weeks. If the rash still doesn’t clear up, it may have become infected and need antibiotics. Alternatively, it may be due to an unusual or more serious skin condition. Consult your Doctor if: Nappy rash doesn’t clear with the usual treatment, comes back frequently, or spreads to the face or head of your baby.
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Dr Robert Arlt is a Consultant Paediatrician and Allergologist at Richmond Practice, which provides specialist, integrated family health care from a team of paediatricians, gynaecologists and obstetricians. Same day and out-of-hours appointments are available. For further information, visit www.richmondpractice.co.uk
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HANDLING HEAD LICE! By Clare Spence, GP
Head lice are a problem faced by many parents, including myself, so I have lots of knowledge and practical advice to share. The Facts ✿ Head lice are common. ✿ They do not prefer either clean or dirty hair. ✿ They cling to hair on the scalp or neck and crawl around the head. ✿ They don’t jump or fly. ✿ Their eggs are called nits. They stick to the head and are small and droplet-shaped. Eggs take 7 to10 days to hatch and then 7 to10 days to mature into adults. ✿ Head lice only survive 2 to 3 days away from a human head. ✿ They are spread only from head-to-head contact, not from pillows or hair brushes. Symptoms ✿ Itching ✿ Small itchy pink bumps around the edge of the scalp which are insect bites ✿ Crusting of the scalp ✿ Enlarged glands in the neck ✿ Repeated yellow crusting skin infections ✿ Unpleasant odour
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FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Alternatively, there may be no symptoms and you may find lice only by parting the hair systematically and combing through with a fine-toothed nit comb. Getting Rid of Head Lice The different methods are: insecticides, non-insecticide shampoos and wet combing. There is no medical evidence of the effectiveness of Tea Tree Oil. Some head lice are resistant to insecticides, so most effective is to combine use of these with wet combing. Treat the whole household at once to avoid re-infection. Wet Combing The live insects (but not their eggs) can be removed with a fine-toothed ‘nit comb’ from the chemist. Wet the hair, apply any conditioner and comb through all of the hair in sections, which can take 20 to 30 minutes in long hair. Wash the conditioner off and repeat. In between each stroke, you need to wipe the comb on a tissue to check for lice. Repeat wet combing every 2 to 3 days until no lice have been seen for 10 days. The aim is remove all the lice as they hatch, before they have chance to mature and hatch eggs themselves.
Insecticides and Non-Insecticide Shampoos These products kill live lice (but not eggs) by a variety of means. You should only use them if you find live lice. The treatment must be repeated a week later to kill eggs. Wet comb in between treatments to remove any eggs that may have hatched. Products should be rubbed into dry hair, allowed to dry naturally and then left on for 8 to 12 hours before washing off with shampoo. The instructions may advise quicker removal of the products, but they are more effective if left longer. However, watch out for any skin irritation or worsening of asthma caused by the chemicals. With repeated use, lice can become resistant to insecticides containing permethrin, malathion and phenothrin. There are alternative non-insecticide shampoos which contain deimeticone and isopropyl myristate (Full Marks Solution), to which lice cannot become resistant and which work by suffocating them. However, clinical trials have not yet been done to prove that non-insecticide shampoos are as effective as other treatments. Dimeticone is left on overnight but isopropyl myristate need only be left on for 10 minutes. If you are pregnant, discuss the best method of treatment with your GP. So if you find head lice in your little darling’s hair, you are now armed for the battle to get rid of them!
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For further information, visit www.bad.org.uk, www.patient.co.uk or borrow/buy The Little Book of Nits (Bloomsbury).
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‘NEW SCHOOL YEAR’ RESOLUTIONS By Hannah Ashenden The summer holidays have become a distant blur and both parents and children have hopefully embraced the changes of the new school year. It’s the perfect time to look back on the extra-challenging and stressful moments the holidays posed, ask ourselves how we can learn from them, and set some ‘new school year resolutions’ to help smooth over any cracks that appeared during the summer. In Dr Laura Markham’s book ‘Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids,’ the author suggests that, as parents, we are always acting from either a place of love or fear. If the latter, it could perhaps be a fear of conflict, or a fear of repeating the behaviours of our own parents. It is almost always connected with our childhood experiences. When in a fearful place, we react quickly and emotionally, take things personally and see issues only as they relate to us. Think of a time recently when your child was being particularly difficult. How did you react? Were you fearful and stressed, or loving and calm? If you weren’t calm, next time try taking a deep breath and asking yourself the following questions: What is this really about? What is my child demonstrating he/she really needs? How can I give him/her a response that is firm but loving? Once the crisis has past, it’s also worth assessing what just happened. This helps us gain perspective and harness the tools to deal better with a similar situation in the future. Consider: What worked well in that situation? How do I know? What didn’t work so well? What were the warning signs? What would work better? For instance, if you are struggling at bedtime, sometimes something as simple as beginning the bedtime routine half an hour earlier can make a huge difference.
A useful technique for creating better communication and diffusing tricky situations is to echo the words and feelings of our children back to them. By repeating back to them, word for word what they have just expressed (eg I can hear that you/ so you feel that you... ), we show that we have really listened and understood. Sometimes this is all that is needed. The first time I tried this, I was surprised when my 3 year old responded “Yes, I just feel so frustrated” and then walked away apparently soothed! We are human so acting from love isn’t always possible. If you feel yourself losing your rag, try imagining that your child is asleep! Remember that as night time falls, you will find yourself looking down at a sleeping, innocent, vulnerable child. This reminds us how fragile our children are, how much they need our guidance, and of course, that we love them unconditionally. Take a moment this evening to watch your child sleep. Pat yourself on the back for the things you handled well today and forgive yourself for the things you didn’t. Choose love over fear, and start afresh tomorrow.
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Hannah Ashenden runs Coaching for Mums. For further information about how Hannah can help you overcome obstacles in your life, visit www.coachingformums.net and contact her for a FREE telephone consultation.
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PARENTING
Eight things for your Parenting ‘To Do’ List By Lisa Parkes
In our busy lives, sometimes being parents just seems to get in the way of ticking things off our ‘to-do’ list, particularly when our relationship with our children isn’t going well. In these situations, it’s worth remembering that our relationship with our children also comes with a built-in ‘to-do’ list and it’s one that involves much more than just feeding, clothing and putting them to bed. So why not draw up a parenting ‘to-do’ list? These are the kind of things you may want to put on it. Empathy Let your kids have their say. Nod your head and show them you are listening and understand what they are saying and feeling. You don’t have to agree with it, but seeing the world through their eyes helps them to form a solid sense of self.
Validation and Acceptance Let them be who they are, complete with their own world view, out-of-control emotions and quirky little ways.Guide them, rather than telling them the way. If they make mistakes or get things wrong, help them dust themselves down, learn from the experience and move on. Love them for who they are and not what you want them to be. Praise It’s really easy to spend too much time giving our children commands and instructions and not enough time reminding them what they are good at. Parents are a mirror in which children see themselves, and so it’s really important to praise them as often as you can, and spend as little time as possible being critical. If you are highly critical of yourself, then it is likely you will be of your children too. The same if
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you have high standards. Learn to pick your battles: some things are important, but others you can definitely let go of. Encouragement Show your children you have faith in their abilities. This will help build their self-belief. When your child wants to try something new, a natural reaction is to try to forewarn them of disappointment or manage their expectations. Alternatively, your own fear may lead you to continually remind them to be careful. Instead, try to share their enthusiasm. Space and Time You can foster independence and strong problem solving skills if you allow your child the time and freedom to find their own way. Create a safe and trusting space for them to share with you and try not to react negatively to whatever they are telling you. Contain your own feelings and reactions. Listen without judging, assuming, blaming or trying to fix any problems. Instead, acknowledge what they are saying, label their feelings, nod – and smile, if you can! Fun and Laughter Interject fun and laughter into the daily routine. It’s a great way to relief stress, and diffuse negative moods, conflict and anger. Make
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your children laugh! And laugh yourself. Often and LOUD! Quality Time Give your child quality time and attention. Just the two of you without television, radio, iPhone or iPad. Don’t insist on conversation or even doing anything if your child doesn’t want to. Just being together with no distractions and giving your child your exclusive attention is hugely important. On the other hand, if they want to dance, have a quiet hug, read a story, or build Lego – or anything else – go with it. Consistency Children like routine. Knowing what is happening next helps them feel secure. Anxious children need even more explanations, preparation and reassurance. Without being too rigid, try to stick to stick broadly to a familiar routine and give ample warning when you need to divert from it. This helps develop your child’s trust in you and their environment. Life isn’t perfect so there will be days when things go wrong. Don’t worry – explaining what has happened and why helps your kids move on. And remember to sprinkle love into everything you do! In fact, let’s be generous. Pour love into your kids and watch them grow and flourish.
Lisa Parkes is a Children’s Coach based in Surrey. She is passionate about helping children become more resilient to life and runs regular workshops for those suffering from shyness, lack of confidence or low self-esteem. For more information and for Lisa’s FREE download which shows you how to pour more love into your family, visit www.lisaparkeslifecoaching.co.uk/love October 2014
By Alison Banks
Role Play Saying “No” Role play with your children situations in which they are struggling to say “No.” If you are struggling with saying “No” to them or anyone else, practice this with your partner or a friend. Listen When your Child says “No” to You and Respect their Decisions It supports a child’s development when you let them have age-appropriate control of their lives. This way they learn what is good for them and what is bad. Discuss and support their decisions. Encourage the Development of your Child’s Gut Instinct Support them to recognize and trust their inner instinct and moral compass. Encourage your children to use this to recognize danger and to judge how they wish to behave, especially at times when they are feeling pressurised by others. Encourage your Children to Talk to You You will only know what your kids are dealing with outside the home if you have an open line of communication with them. Give your children as many opportunities for sharing and discussion as possible. Peer groups have so much influence, especially with adolescents, because, no matter how inappropriate the peer group seems to adults, belonging to a group really does offer something significant to a child or young person. Peer groups provide a place where children feel accepted and good about themselves, and where their self-esteem is enhanced. Young people tend to gravitate towards other young people dealing with the same problems and situations as themselves, by whom they will be understood and accepted. The feeling of belonging is a very powerful force that can outweigh ties to school, family, church or community.
Peer pressure exists for all ages of child and adults too. Three year old Charlie insists that his mother take him to the shops straightaway and buy him the latest ‘fad’ toy. Why? Because his friends have it. Nine year old Amy wears a new shirt to school once, then refuses to wear it again because her friends made fun of it. John, age sixteen, works out three hours a day to have a ‘perfect’ body. When one of his friends offers him some anabolic steroids, he accepts, sacrificing his health for his image. Meanwhile, John’s forty year old father takes out a loan he can’t afford to buy a new BMW because most of his neighbours drive luxury cars, and he doesn’t want them to think he can’t afford one too. No one is immune to peer pressure. Studies show that both girls and boy will behave in ways that are not true to themselves and take risks they do not really want to take because they want to fit in, be liked and be accepted as part of a group.
Finally, Trust your Children. This doesn’t mean letting them do things that are not age-appropriate. It means trusting that the situations they are in and how they deal with them will develop in them the qualities they need for their lives.
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Alison Banks is a mother of three and founder and owner of Parenting Tutor. Alison holds workshops and consultations which help families develop and nurture their interpersonal relationships in the healthiest and most fulfilling ways. You can have a FREE private coaching session with Alison. Just quote FUT 20! For more information, visit www.parentingtutor.co.uk
So how can we help our children with this? Notice how YOU are Affected by Peer Pressure Parents are the most important role models for children. Do you know your own mind and stick to what you believe in? Do you show, by example, that you can walk away or stand firm about the things that are important to you? Do you feel fine when say “No” to your kids? Or can you not say “No?”
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Develop your own Self-Esteem and that of your Children Our children inherit our unresolved issues. We all have them – even those of us who appear to have healthy self-esteem. Healthy self-esteem develops when we nurture self-love. Write down a list of things that develop self-love. These might include things like “stop comparing yourself with others,” or “stop having unrealistic expectations of yourself.” Then, write a list of things that knock your self-esteem. Take a close look at these and resolve NOT to do things these things to your children. October 2014
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PARENTING
The Power of Peer Pressure
Halloween is a child’s dream-come-true: a chance to get dressed up, go out in the dark, knock on doors, fill a treat bag - and over-indulge on sweets and chocolate!
family food&nutrition HALLOWEEN
SPOOKY
Trick-or-Treating in the Bag! A Happy Healthy Halloween
By Susan Carmichael
As a parent, I used to dread the Halloween treat bag. It stared me in the face chuckling with glee, promising sugar-highs, e-numbers and additive-induced tears - and then more tears because “someone has taken my sweets!” No mother wants to have their child up all night with tummy cramps, sickness and sleeplessness, or to have to deal with the rampant hyperactivity caused by ‘nasties’ in the Halloween treat bag. I’ve learned that it’s
far kinder to be a bit “mean” and take the time to plan carefully and ensure a degree of healthy eating. Don’t worry - your children will still have just as much fun. For most, it’s about seeing how full they can stuff their bags, rather than eating everything in them!
Please, just EAT it! I specialise in children’s health. Fussy Eaters ● Weaning problems Digestive issues ● Food Allergies ● Frequent illnesses ● Skin Rashes
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Here are some tips to help you avoid Halloween over-indulgence and make it an evening to remember for everyone: Don’t go trick-or-treating on an empty stomach. Instead, serve a light, healthy Halloween tea before to reduce the urge to snack. You can theme food and include things like savoury ‘eye-balls’ (meatballs), witches fingers (sausages wrapped in pastry), decorated cupcakes and witches broth (delicious pumpkin soup). Keep the size of the trick-or-treat bags/ buckets small for little ones. Older kids can carry larger bags – but supermarket bags are too big! Limit the houses your children visit to a small area. In this way, the amount of treats will be more manageable. Encourage your children to wait until they get home to eat any of their goodies so that you can throw away any that aren’t commercially wrapped, have tears in wrappers, tiny pinholes, an unusual appearance or discoloration. When in doubt, throw it out! Offer a small amount of sweet treats to enjoy after trick-or-treating and put the rest away for special occasions. Try to avoid too many sweet just before bedtime! So what will you offer the trick-or-treaters when YOUR doorbell rings? Think outside of the Halloween-bag when choosing treats. The calories in those bite-size Halloween treats add up quickly. Four “bite size”chocolate bars contain approximately 320 calories, 25 jelly beans have approximately 140 calories, and 10 small sweets can have approximately 50 calories. Set a good example for your own children and the neighbourhood kids by passing out
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Clare Jeffries (BSc NT, mBANT, mCNHC) www.healthyinfluence.co.uk clare@healthyinfluence.co.uk 07977 535 383 8
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healthy treats or non-food options. The following treats are lower in fat and sugar and much healthier than sweets: ✸ Fruit bars ✸ Mini packs of crisps ✸ Yoghurt covered raisins or cranberries ✸ Snack packets of dried fruit, baked pretzels or seeds (e.g. sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds) ✸ Trail mix ✸ Small packages of cookies such as hob-nobs or flapjacks ✸ Raisins and chocolate covered raisins ✸ Gummy candies made with real juice ✸ Mini boxes of raisins and chocolate-covered raisins ✸ Individual juice drinks (100% juice) ✸ Mini packets of popcorn Remember to avoid nuts and, if you do offer sweets, choose bite-size chocolate bars, healthier, dark chocolate versions and those that are lower in fat and sugar. The following non-food treats can be almost as popular as the foody treats: ✸ Glow sticks ✸ Rubbery spiders ✸ Halloween glasses ✸ False teeth, fingers, eyes ✸ Miniature magnifying glasses Halloween is the perfect time to teach children about eating in moderation and chat with them about how much sugar we need for energy and the effects of an excess on our bodies – diabetes, obesity, tooth decay, mood swings and hyperactivity. Promote a healthy diet, set limits on when and how many sweets they can have, and stick to them. Encourage children to self-moderate their treats. Halloween is a magical time. If you follow some of the above suggestions, it can be both happy and healthy too!
Susan Carmichael is the proprietor of Sassy Stirrers which offers children’s cooking parties and a Saturday Cooking Club held one afternoon per month in the areas of Kingston and Esher. Sassy Stirrers also runs holiday workshops, after-school clubs and lunch time clubs in local schools. For more information, on Sassy Stirrers half term workshops, see page 30 or visit www.sassystirrers.com October 2014
EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Educating the Whole Child
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SCHOOL PROFILES
EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Educating the Whole Child
THE MALL SCHOOL
The Mall School is an independent day school for boys ages 4 to 13 in Twickenham, which prepares pupils for a range of the leading London day and boarding senior schools. The Mall provides ‘strong support and guidance for pupils in a safe, happy, caring and relaxed environment’ (Independent Schools Inspectorate May 2013). The Mall is proud of both its academic achievements and broad curriculum which offers all boys opportunities in sport, music, drama, art and design
technology. Of the 37 awards to senior schools gained by boys in the last 5 years, 12 were awarded in music, art, design technology, sport and drama. The School provides state-ofthe-art facilities including a brand new sports hall, 25m indoor heated swimming pool, 160-seat theatre, art studio, ICT suite, science laboratories and a number of environmentally friendly classrooms. It offers a broad range of extra-curricular activities, after-school clubs and holiday camps for all ages.
www.themallschool.org.uk
THE ST MICHAEL STEINER SCHOOL
The St Michael Steiner School is a young educational institution, which moved from the top floor of a bustling primary school to its own beautiful grounds in Hanworth two years ago. It is the only London Steiner school with a High School, and one of only two UK schools pioneering the SSC (Steiner School Certificate) as an alternative to GCSE’s and A-Levels. The school now offers education for children from ages
3 to 17, (increasing to age 18 by 2015), as well as Parent and Child Groups for children ages 0 to 3 years. The faculty strikes a balance between teachers with many years’ experience and talented, enthusiastic, new teachers. This balance allows the education to remain grounded whilst the pedagogy evolves to stay relevant in the modern world. The school continues to grow and now offers a beautiful new space for its Kindergarten.
www.stmichaelsteiner.hounslow.sch.uk 10
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SURBITON HIGH SCHOOL
Surbiton High School prides itself on being an extraordinary community, where everything is driven by a passion for excellence. It looks beyond A*s to offer a real breadth of education. It inspires, but also cares passionately about character development and happiness. Whether
engaged in learning in the classroom, or through musical, artistic, sporting, enterprise or charitable activities, its pupils are encouraged to connect with the wider world. They are empowered to achieve the very best exam results and leave the School as compassionate young people with strong values.
www.surbitonhigh.com
TWICKENHAM PREP SCHOOL Twickenham Prep School (TPS) is an independent, co-educational day school in Hampton for boys aged 4 to 13 and girls aged 4 to 11. It provides a vibrant, thriving and supportive environment in which every child is valued as an individual and inspired to achieve their full potential. Pupils benefit from small classes, first-class facilities and specialist subject teaching, ensuring excellent results at 11+ and Common Entrance. Strong emphasis is placed on participation in sporting, musical and extra-curricular activities. The school plays a wide range of sports and has recently formed an affiliation with Kempton Cricket Club to provide dedicated
sporting facilities for rugby, football, cricket and rounders. As well as being a strong chess school, TPS participates in the innovative Mind Lab programme and recently became the first British representative to win a Gold Medal at the 2014 Mind Lab Olympics held in Budapest. TPS offers a wide choice of extra-curricular clubs and wrap-around care from 8am to 6pm.
www.twickenhamprep.co.uk October 2014
The Mall School An Independent day school for boys aged 4-13 years.
Independent Day School for Girls aged 4–11 and Boys aged 4–13 A caring and happy school, providing an inspiring and creative education amongst first-class facilities. Achieving high academic standards and excellent personal development within a broad curriculum.
Prospective Parents are welcome to join our school assembly followed by a personal tour with the Headmaster. Please call 020 8979 6216 for more information.
“A great place to learn...” For over 100 years, we have been preparing boys for a range of the leading London day and boarding senior schools. Many boys have secured scholarships to these schools in a wide range of disciplines. Our broad curriculum also offers opportunities in sport, music, art and design technology which take place in our excellent facilities including a 160seat theatre, a new sports hall, art studio, ICT suite and science laboratories. A morning minibus service is offered to boys living in Richmond, Isleworth, St Margaret’s, Twickenham, Kingston and Teddington. Please contact the Admissions Secretary for a personal tour. The Mall School, 185 Hampton Road, Twickenham TW2 5NQ T: 020 8614 1082 admissions@themallschool.org.uk www.themallschool.org.uk
Beveree, 43 High Street, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2SA Tel: 020 8979 6216 Email: office@twickenhamprep.co.uk www.twickenhamprep.co.uk
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EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Educating the Whole Child
LEARNING CHINESE Julia Yang offers her study tips
With Mandarin Chinese being the world’s most widely spoken language, surpassing even English, studying Chinese and being bilingual offers children huge advantages in many areas of their lives, including both work and leisure, and the ability to communicate with a broader range of people around the world. “One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.” Frank Smith Learning Chinese comes easily to many children, especially if they start learning at a young age. Here are my Top Tips: Set a Routine Get children used to a specific time for learning by scheduling regular homework/practice time. Remind them: practice makes perfect! Be Consistent Set aside a certain time of day, or a certain set of activities, for Chinese learning. It does not matter what
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these activities are – they can involve reading books, singing songs or baking cookies, as long as you do them all in Chinese. Learn and Enjoy Chinese with your Kids Attend classes with your child so that you can learn alongside them. After a while, you will discover many everyday topics that you can talk about with your kids in Chinese, and you will both be able to communicate with the words or sentences you have learned more and more frequently. Your child will see learning as less of a chore, and more fun, if you are involved too. Demonstrate your Own Love of Chinese Your child wants to be like you, so if he or she sees Chinese books in the house and watches you pick them up and look at them whenever you have a moment to yourself, your child will learn to love Chinese books too. Modelling your own love of reading is more powerful than making your child sit through a rigid story time session.
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
Choose the Right Learning Materials Buy, borrow or download books, videos and music in Chinese to help your kids learn. The easiest way to start is to watch and listen to cartoons, songs, rhymes. You will find a Chinese version of your child’s favourite cartoon on YouTube, for example, Peppa Pig Chinese. You can also try popular Chinese children’s programmes like Little Wisdome Tree and Qiaohu, which contain lots of songs and rhymes. Don’t Let Shyness Stop you Practicing
If you can speak even a little Chinese, don’t be afraid to use it with your child. Your bad pronunciation can be corrected – the key thing is to expose your child to the language. The more exposure they have, the better they will become.
extra
Julia Yang is the Head Teacher of Link Chinese Academy, which offers Mandarin classes for children and adults in Richmond, Teddington and throughout London. For Further information, visit www.linkchinese.co.uk
October 2014
OPEN DAY LISTINGS AUTUMN 2014 ATHELSTAN HOUSE SCHOOL Friday, 10 October
9.30am to 11.30am
Friday, 5 December
9.30am to 11.30am
CLAREMONT FAN COURT SCHOOL Whole School Saturday, 11 October
10.00am to 12.30pm
Introductory Talk at 10.00am DENMEAD SCHOOL Friday, 10 October Pre-Prep Department Prep Department
9.15am to 11.00am
10.00am to 12.00pm
NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL Prep School Welcome Events Friday, 7 November
9.30am to 11.00am
Wednesday, 10 December
2.00pm to 3.30pm
Pre-Prep Welcome Events Visits are welcome most Mondays and Wednesdays during term time. For all Welcome Events, please call to confirm your place or to arrange an individual visit to see the school. NOTRE DAME SCHOOL Saturday, 4 October
9.00am to 12.00pm
Tuesday, 11 November
9.00am to 11.00am
☛
Principal’s Talk at 10.30am ST GEORGE’S WEYBRIDGE Junior School Friday, 6 March
9.00am to 12.00pm
Junior School and Senior School Saturday, 7 March
9.30am to 12.30pm
SURBITON HIGH SCHOOL Junior Girls Tuesday, 7 October
9.15am
Wednesday, 5 November
9.15am
Boys Prep Wednesday, 15 October
9.15am
Friday, 14 November
9.15am
Senior Girls Wednesday, 1 October
9.30am
Friday, 10 October
9.30am
Explore Our World www.notredame.co.uk
THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE Saturday, 4 October
11.00am to 1.00pm
Wednesday, 8 October
11.00am to 1.00pm
Thursday, 6 November
11.00am to 1.00pm
THE MALL SCHOOL Saturday, 11 October
10.00am to 12.00pm
THE ST MICHAEL STEINER SCHOOL Saturday, 8 November
11.00am to 2.00pm
❀ ❀ ❀ ❀ ❀ ❀ ❀ ❀ ❀ October 2014
Open Days - 4th October & 11th November 2014 Notre Dame School, Cobham 01932 869990
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
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SCHOOL PROFILES
EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Educating the Whole Child
ATHELSTAN HOUSE SCHOOL Athelstan House in Hampton is a small, unique, co-educational pre-prep school and nursery, offering an outstanding start to school life in a warm, family environment. With a maximum of 12 to15 students per class and staff/child teaching ratio of about 1 teacher to 6 children, the School has one of the highest teacher/pupil ratios in the local area. With its long track record of preparing infants for the best prep schools, the School’s nurturing, caring, emotionally-attuned staff awaken a love of learning and rapidly develop children’s social/ emotional skills. The School offers specialist teachers in PE, Drama and Science, weekly French or Spanish lessons, weekly swimming lessons, and daily Breakfast/After School Clubs. Ofsted: ‘Pupils attain a high standard in reading, spelling
and mathematics and are well prepared for the next stage of their education.’ ‘The care shown by staff to pupils is of the highest order. Pupils develop self-esteem and gain a balanced awareness of the world around them.’
www.athelstanhouseschool.co.uk
ST GEORGE’S WEYBRIDGE
St George’s Junior School for children aged 3 to 11 years and St George’s College for children aged 11 to 18 years are leading independent co-educational Roman Catholic day schools in Weybridge, offering a values-led education for all. St George’s aims to develop perfectly balanced and quietly confident individuals by educating minds, expanding hearts and empowering lives, whilst its inspirational teaching nurtures a love of learning and fulfils aspirations and potential.
The Schools’ distinctive Josephite ethos instils mutual respect and compassion in all and encourages a strong sense that all members belong to one family which encompasses the wider world. In 2014, students at St George’s College received the best ever top A-level results at the School. 60% of the grades were A*-A, an increase of 11% on 2013, whilst 85% of the grades achieved overall were A*-B. Almost all of the Upper Sixth students achieved their first choice university place.
www.stgeorgesweybridge.com 14
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
NOTRE DAME SCHOOL
Notre Dame School is a world class independent Catholic day school for girls aged 2 to 18. The School includes both a preparatory school and a senior school, and is set in 17 acres of idyllic grounds alongside the River Mole in Cobham. Numerous coach routes connect all the local areas on the A3 corridor including Guildford, Esher, Weybridge, Thames Ditton, Wimbledon and Putney, offering flexible single or return journeys.
Recent long term multi-million pound investment in the School has seen the development of a professionally equipped 380-seat theatre, fully equipped six-lab science block, 25m heated indoor swimming pool, large outdoor learning environment with superb adventure tree house and luxury Sixth Form centre. A new all-weather facility including a hockey/football pitch and six netball/tennis courts is also planned for this year.
www.notredame.co.uk
DENMEAD SCHOOL Individuals are the key at Denmead School in Hampton and the breadth of involvement in school life is supremely important for each child in their preparation for the future. Whether in the classroom, on the games field, on stage, or in any of the many House Competitions held throughout the year, the pupils have the opportunity to expand their talents and gain in self-confidence. With waiting lists in many year groups, and a very eager cohort of pupils in both Prep and Pre-Prep, the new academic year has begun in fine style! The games programme is already in
full swing and boys are eagerly anticipating other major autumn term events including Harvest Festival, Remembrance Day Assembly, Carol Service and the Pre-Prep Nativity performances. To get a genuine feel for its unique homely atmosphere, do go along to one of the School’s Open Mornings and let the children themselves explain life at Denmead to you.
www.denmeadschool.org.uk October 2014
ATHELSTAN HOUSE SCHOOL 020 8979 1045 admin@athelstanhouseschool.co.uk 36 Percy Road Hampton Middlesex TW12 2LA
Where small is special
Nursery & pre-prep school for 3 to 7 years ●
Nurturing environment where each child is valued for their unique qualities
●
Excellent academic standards and preparation for local preparatory and independent schools
●
Strong emphasis on pastoral care - helping children develop into confident, articulate individuals
●
Small classes, maximum 16
OPEN MORNINGS - 9.30 - 11.30am Friday 10 October and Friday 5 December 2014
www.athelstanhouseschool.co.uk
☛ A love of History
For a life in Futures
Testing Materials
For a life in Fashion
Leading independent co-educational Roman Catholic day schools in Surrey offering a values-led education for all.
Book now at www.stgeorgesweybridge.com A Registered Educational Charity No.1017853
October 2014
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
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THE NEW CURRICULUM WHAT EVERY PARENT NEEDS TO KNOW EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Educating the Whole Child
By Carey Ann Dodah
This September, children in England started the new school year with a new curriculum. The new curriculum has been under discussion in Government for some time, and is a reaction to the recent PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) results. These results show that the UK is lagging behind other countries around the world academically, and does not even make the top 20 in reading, maths and science. Recent research conducted by national learning centres, Explore Learning, indicates that a large proportion of the parents it surveyed are worried that British children aren’t leading the global field. Consequently, the new curriculum will, overall, appear more challenging to most children and parents, with many concepts in both maths and English being introduced at an earlier age. English While the new curriculum continues to focus on phonics, a stronger emphasis will now be placed on grammar, punctuation and spelling. There will also be more concentration on the classics, such as Shakespeare, with children and pupils expected to have studied two of his plays between the ages of 11 and 14. Maths In maths, knowing times tables (12 x 12 by the end of Year 4), calculating with fractions, using written methods of calculation and having strong mental maths skills will be more important than ever, and there will be more opportunity to develop problem-solving skills in maths. Computing Children will be taught to write code and pupils ages 5 to 7 will be expected to ‘understand what algorithms are’ and to ‘create and debug simple programs.’
Science New content is to be introduced at primary school level, with children studying the solar system, speed and evolution. In secondary schools, physics, biology and chemistry will be studied as separate subjects. There will also be a focus on climate change. History The history curriculum will take primary school pupils through British history from the Stone Age to the Normans. They will also have the opportunity to study a later era, such as the Victorians. The lives of “significant individuals” such as Christopher Columbus, Neil Armstrong, Rosa Parks, suffragette, Emily Davison, Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria will be given more attention, with comparisons drawn between different eras. Secondary schools will teach British history from 1066 to 1901, followed by British, European and world events from 1901, including World War II and the Holocaust.
Any parent keen to understand the details of new curriculum is encouraged to attend information sessions offered by their child’s school. The programmes of study for each year are also available at www.gov.uk/government/collections/ national-curriculum. If you are concerned that the new national curriculum might be affecting your child’s academic progress at school, always consult your child’s teacher. The most important thing is to maintain your child’s confidence and positive attitude towards learning as this makes such a powerful difference to a child’s success in education.
extra
Explore Learning has 94 tuition centres across the UK. It can help support and challenge children in the topic areas introduced by the new National Curriculum, at a pace and to a level with which they are comfortable. There are centres in Hampton, Hounslow, Walton, East Sheen and Epsom. For further information, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk
www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk
Claremont Fan Court School An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years
Open Morning Whole School - 10.00am - 12.30pm Introductory talk at 10.00am Saturday 11 October
Thames – passion for learning, inspiration for life
Prospective families are very welcome to attend. For further information please telephone 01372 473624 or email info@claremont.surrey.sch.uk
our exceptional independent school for boys and girls
OPEN MORNING THURSDAY 6th NOVEMBER 11.00-13.00
www.claremont-school.co.uk
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www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, Wye Street, London SW11 2HB
October 2014 TCC_Families_ad_Nov2014.indd 1
19/06/2014 12:28
Newland House School
Fun Mandarin Classes
Independent Preparatory Day School for Girls and Boys from 4 to 13 years
throughout London
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9 months – 12 years Welcome to Link Chinese Academy, the most fun, dynamic and culturally rich Mandarin classes. Highly recommended by The Telegraph, The Independent & Evening Standard.
BOOK YOUR FREE CLASS TODAY! Welcome Events 1 October 5 November 10 December
Call now to reserve your place or to arrange an individual tour of the Pre-Prep or Prep School
Non-selective entry at Reception Year 3 entry via 7+ Assessment ‘Throughout the school, the quality of the pupils’
achievements and learning is excellent.’
‘The personal development of pupils is excellent and is supported by excellent pastoral care.’ ISI Inspection October 2013
t: 020 8865 1305 e: admissions@newlandhouse.net www.newlandhouse.net Newland House School, Waldegrave Park, Twickenham TW1 4TQ
October 2014
Teddington
Thursdays: 2.45–3.45pm under 4’s 4 – 5pm over 4’s
Richmond
Tuesdays: 2.45–3.45pm under 4’s 4 – 5pm over 4’s
www.linkchinese.co.uk 020 8332 0942 children@linkchinese.co.uk
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
☛
17
SCHOOL PROFILES
EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Educating the Whole Child
THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
At Thames Christian College, pupils receive a thorough and well-rounded education, achieving top grades, but also developing the depth of character and steadfast values that set them apart from other young people. This year, 40% of GCSE grades were A*/A and 91% of pupils achieved the headline measure 5 A*-C grades including Maths and English. Included in the Good Schools Guide, the School is recognised for its strong Christian ethos and caring discipline. Staff work in partnership with pupils and parents to ensure every pupil fulfils their potential. They create an inspiring classroom environment where learning is ‘cool’ and each pupil’s contribution is valued. High quality teaching and high expectations develop pupils as independent learners and thinkers in all areas and challenge them to develop the flexibility, character and values required for the 21st century. The School plans two streams of entry by 2019, as well as a sixth form in new state of the art, purpose-built premises. www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk
PROGRESS TUTORING AND EDUCATIONAL AGENCY We recommend current and experienced qualified teachers/tutors for 1-1 tuition in your home or in the tutors home. We have enhanced CRB checked tutors in the south west area of London and can offer: All subjects at primary level • Exam prep for 11+ 13+ C.E • Sats • GCSE A’level and Degree Dyslexia and Special Educational Needs. We welcome applications from local enthusiastic teachers/tutors who would like to add their names to our register
www.progresstutoring.co.uk • info@progresstutoring.co.uk • 0208 741 1979
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CLAREMONT FAN COURT SCHOOL Claremont Fan Court School is a co-educational independent school for children ages 2½ to 18 years, set within 100 acres of historic landscaped grounds in Esher. In the School’s spacious and inspiring environment children are encouraged to think creatively and investigate widely. In the Pre-Preparatory and Preparatory School, the pupils develop an understanding of themselves and others. Values for life are taught in a supportive, caring atmosphere with shared aims and aspirations between home and School. Children receive the very best education and preparation for Senior School, taught by teachers who embrace the School’s values and family atmosphere. The School aims to provide each pupil with a breadth of educational, cultural, social and sporting opportunities, through
which the full potential of each individual may be realised. Moral integrity and character education, together with high academic expectations, are established and developed within small classes in a happy, positive environment.
www.claremont-school.co.uk
NEWLAND HOUSE Newland House in Twickenham is an experienced and energetic Prep School for girls and boys from ages 4 to 13 years. The school has an extensive, engaging curriculum, which fosters a sense of self-confidence and provides opportunities for children to reach their full potential by encouraging learning at a comfortable and appropriate pace. Pupils have excellent academic outcomes, gaining scholarships and awards at top senior schools. The Independent Schools Inspectorate last year judged that ‘Throughout the school, the quality of the pupils’ achievements and learning is excellent.’ The inspection further highlighted that ‘The success of pupils is promoted by good teaching and their excellent attitudes to learning, which contribute well to their rapid progress, as do their exemplary behaviour and excellent relationships.’ Traditional standards are very important and exceptional pastoral provision supports
individual development and a strong sense of community. The School is non-selective in Reception or children may join in Year 3 via an annual 7+ assessment. www.newlandhouse.net
Attention Schools! ‘5 a Day’ the Children’s Way! Picture a busy playground tuck shop with Year 4 and 5 children selling a nutritious range of tasty snacks and drinks to their peers. Not only are they helping pupils consume their ‘5 a Day,’ they are applying numerous academic skills in the real world. The learning isn’t just about mental maths and money management either. Children are also learning life skills such as crowd control, working under pressure, communication and customer service and practicing being well organized, problem-solving, and working together as a team. Your school can now set up such tuck
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
shop with Pupils Profit, a company which offers schools engaging Tuck Shop Enterprise training days, and supplies an affordably priced, nutritious range of tasty snacks and drinks to your school, all of which are within the Children’s Food Trust guidelines. Founder Elizabeth Gimblett says “The key to a successful tuck shop lies in engagement, in selling products the children love. Then rather than asking how you can encourage children to eat more of their ‘5 a Day,’ instead you can watch the children encouraging each other!” For more information on Pupils Profit Tuck Shops and other enterprise initiatives, visit www.pupilsprofit.com October 2014
Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond
The Positive Things about Childbirth By Louise Nunn and Wendy Burman
Once you’re expecting a baby, people are often very keen to tell you horror stories about childbirth. But there are some positives too! If you are feeling anxious about what is to come, try focusing on the following information.
Your Body and Your Baby’s are Perfectly Engineered for Birthing Contrary to popular opinion, you are not squeezing something the size of a melon out of a hole the size of a grape! The hormone ‘relaxin’ softens both your pelvic joints, and the joints and ligaments of your baby, making
everything pliable, movable and accommodating. Even your baby’s shoulder blades and collar bone become smaller in span to allow for birth. Your baby’s skull plates can also overlap to help the head pass through your pelvis, reducing the diameter to around just 10cm. In addition, the perineum (the area of tissue and muscle that needs to open to allow your baby’s head out) is super-stretchy. It just needs time to ‘unfold.’ Allowing the baby’s head to gently ‘knead’ the perineum open in its own time helps keep intact at birth. Birth doesn’t Necessarily Mean Pain The birthing muscles are no different to any other muscles in the body. The harder and longer we work them, the more fatigued they become, which, like any form of hard exercise, means discomfort, stiffness and soreness, – just ask a marathon runner!
Childbirth is certainly a physical challenge which involves hard work, and sensations of pressure, fullness, and tightening - but not always pain. Pain is usually caused by fear and the resulting tension it creates in the body. Fear and stress tense the body and cause conflict in the process of changes taking place inside. Adrenalin makes the body want to hold off birthing until a safer time and causes blood circulation to divert away from the uterus and baby, and head for the defence organs and limbs instead. When you are relaxed about birth, your body relaxes too and stays soft and open to the whole process. When you relax, you can enjoy the full benefit of your body’s endorphins - natural hormone painkillers which are 200 times stronger than morphine! ☛ continued overleaf
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Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond The Positive Things about Childbirth continued from previous page
Childbirth is One of the Most Empowering Things You Will Ever Do There’s nothing that even compares to the feeling of giving birth to your baby. It’s there whether you have a caesarean section or a drug-free natural birth - a complete rush of euphoria and a total sense of accomplishment and pride. You’ll never experience anything else like it! Childbirth Brings a Couple Closer Though your birthing partner may feel like ‘a spare part’ who has contributed nothing, just being there to lovingly support you is perhaps the most important and effective contribution they can make to the birth. They will be totally in awe of you afterwards! Things are Easier with the Right Preparation If you get your baby into the optimal position for birth before the head engages, half your work is done. The perfect position is head engaged into the pelvis, with baby nestled into your left side, looking over at your right hip. This is known as LOA or Left Occiput Anterior. Yoga, swimming, walking and avoiding reclined seats and bucket seats in cars can really help achieve this position. From 32 weeks, remember to ask your midwife what position your baby’s head and spine is in. Stay at home as long as possible so you can relax and feel safe and secure. Going in to hospital too early is more likely to result in an induction or medical intervention. Be active move around, and work with your body.
extra
Louise and Wendy are NHS midwives who also run Teddington Midwives, which provides private ante-natal classes and post-natal visits in the Richmond and Kingston areas. For more information, visit www.teddingtonmidwives.co.uk
Teddington Midwives Private antenatal classes and postnatal support visits
Expecting a baby?
Want to meet local mums to be?
Thinking about antenatal classes?
We can offer you classes run by experienced midwives, with up to date unbiased information, in small groups and in a local venue. First-time and refresher classes available.
Call Wendy or Louise on 07841065936 email: info@teddingtonmidwives.co.uk www.teddingtonmidwives.co.uk
@Teddmidwives
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TeddingtonMidwives
see our page for discounts
Conquering the Fear of Birthing with Hypnotherapy By Karen Mander
Awareness of hypnobirthing is widespread today, thanks to word of mouth recommendation and approval from midwives who see it working in practice. So why does it work? Quite simply, there is little else that recognises the real issue that some couples face with birthing. That is, fear of the unknown coupled with information overload about birth which, instead of dispelling the myths, just serves to increase anxiety and confusion. Instead of focusing on the potential for natural birth to be instinctive and powerful, society has a tendency to focus on the problems that may arise, however unlikely they may be in practice, as well as pain and pain management. We know that we need to relax into our birth, but how can we do this if we believe that pain is inevitable? Hypnobirthing recognises that birth is not an intrinsically flawed process and that it is fear that interferes with the natural physiology of birth. Freed from the grip of anxiety which creates tension and pain, the mum-to-be is able to access a powerful endorphin system which is designed to protect her birth far more effectively than any external pain killing drug available to her. Endorphins act like a birthing anaesthetic, numbing sensation and discomfort and helping mum to surrender to the instinctive, muscular movements of birth with ease and confidence. Hypnosis is simply a tried and tested technique which calms the part of the brain that governs anxiety and mental overload (the monkey mind). Once the brain is calmed, we learn to assist the process of birth, not fight it and it can be experienced as an autonomic physiological function just as powerful as breathing. A stressful birth is not natural birth and it is important for us to understand this distinction.
In hynobirthing, visualisation techniques are used to trigger endorphins and breathing techniques to assist the function of the birthing muscles. Hynobirthing techniques teach a mum-to-be to reach profound levels of relaxation and remain calm and in control throughout her birth. A strong, unified bond is fostered between all three participants – mum, dad and baby - bringing all into harmony. As more and more women start to trust the birthing process again and focus on it as a life-affirming process not a fearful one, natural birth will be embraced once more as a joyful experience.
extra
Karen Mander is the mother or one son, born naturally at home at the age of 44. She teaches hypnobirthing and Breathe to a Better Birth Workshops at Earthlife Wellbeing and Fitness, a fitness, health and wellbeing centre in Kew. Earthlife offers a range of mother and baby treatments including acupuncture, pregnancy massage, relexology, cranosacral therapy and reiki healing, as well as classes such as pregnancy yoga, mum and baby yoga and baby massage. For more information, visit www.earth-life.co.uk
PROMOTION! SPECIAL OFFER! Struggling to fall pregnant? Good News! 5 FREE Fertility Reflexology treatments are on offer from Holistic Therapy by Shelley Maude in East Molesey! Achieving a viable pregnancy takes many couples on an emotional and physical roller coaster. The trend for couples to start a family later in life, often in their late 30’s or 40’s, coupled with the stress and pressure of day to day life, as well as environmental factors such as pollution and pesticides, has seen a huge increase in fertility problems. A recent study by The Association of Reflexologists has shown that on average, about 50% of clients seeking help through reflexology for fertility issues find themselves pregnant within 6 months of treatment. The great thing about Reflexology is that,
unlike fertility drugs or IVF, there are zero negative side effects! Instead, at the very least, it can induce a state of deep relaxation, something that is essential for all our wellbeing.
For more information, or to book your FREE Fertility Reflexology treatment, please contact Shelley on 07990 561453 or at shelley.maude@hotmail.co.uk and quote FAMILIES96. For further information, on Fertility Reflexology and more information about Shelley, visit www.shelleymaude.co.uk
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October 2014
Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond
The Challenges of the Post Natal Period By Sally Harley
Many women, especially first time mums, find it hard to imagine anything beyond the actual birth of their babies and may not necessarily consider the kind of support they may need in the post-natal period. This period can bring a number of real challenges for both mother and baby and, whilst in the large majority of cases, small difficulties can be easily solved, early intervention can be important to stop longer term problems developing. This makes personalised midwifery care crucially important during this time. Many mothers strongly wish to breast feed, understanding the benefits for both themselves and their babies. As breastfeeding is considered to be the natural way to feed, lots of women also think that it will be simple. For some mothers it can be, but others experience problems such as engorgement, mastitis, sore nipples or low milk supply. All of these conditions can usually be remedied fairly easily with information and support from their midwife. Solutions may vary from advice on attaching and positioning the baby correctly to the breast, identifying a tongue tie which needs prompt referral, to encouraging mothers to rest and eat a good diet. Wound infection is a potential problem which needs speedy recognition and sometimes antibiotics from a GP. Regular checking of a wound and good advice on wound care may prevent infection occurring in the first place. Some mothers may also suffer from post-natal depression, varying in seriousness from mild ‘baby blues’ to puerperal psychosis. These conditions need to be identified quickly, and support and referrals offered to appropriate health care professionals, where necessary.
Babies themselves can also face challenges in the first few weeks of life. Jaundice, although normal physiologically in the first few days for many babies, can be a sign of more serious illness if it appears within the first 24 hours of a baby’s life. Jaundice is often also accompanied by feeding problems and lack of weight gain, meaning that babies can become poorly very quickly. Prompt referral to the paediatrician in such cases is vital. Tongue tie is fairly common among new-borns and although it does not always present a problem, it can have a negative impact on breastfeeding. Babies with tongue tie may spend a long time at the breast, causing pain and damage to the mother’s nipples, while not actually getting much milk or gaining weight. Spotting this at an early stage and correcting the problem with a simple procedure can save mothers from lots of discomfort and encourage babies to gain weight healthily. Frequent, regular visits from a known and trusted midwife, offering consistent advice and support, ensure that any of the above issues are picked up and dealt with more quickly, leading to fewer long term problems and improved outcomes. This allows a mother to experience the post-natal period as a magical, not a stressful time, with her midwife building her confidence, supporting her to get out of the house and meet other mums, and ensuring she is able to enjoy her new baby with as few problems as possible.
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extra
Sally Harley is one of the team of highly qualified, experienced midwives at Neighbourhood Midwives in South West London. Neighbourhood Midwives offers one-to-one midwifery care throughout the pregnancy, labour and post-natal period, with 24/7 access to support and advice. For further information, visit www.neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk
October 2014
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
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Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond
Night Waking Between 9 and 18 Months What to Do By Lyndsey Hookway
Sleep can be a problematic issue for parents of children of any age. However, one of the most common times for people to ask for help with their child’s sleep routine is when their baby is somewhere between 9 and 18 months. Here are some reasons why: Separation anxiety At this age, your baby becomes developmentally capable of knowing that you are separate from him and therefore exist when out of his sight. He may feel anxious that you won’t come back. You have a strong bond, so he probably genuinely enjoys your company and gets sad when you’re not there. He may wake more frequently to check where you are, or panic at bedtime at the thought of being left. Returning to Work Mothers often return to work at around this time. This is a big upheaval for a mum, but an even bigger one for their baby. Your baby will be fine, but more frequent waking is common because she misses you. Often babies will ‘reverse cycle’ their day, during the night, in order to catch up on time with you. Baby’s Development Your baby is developing rapidly. He wants to do what you’re doing, be where you are, see what you see. He’s curious, intelligent, frustrated. He’s learning that his behaviour can influence you. He starts to crawl, bum-shuffle, stand, cruise and walk. He wants to communicate. He doesn’t want to waste time sleeping! If you are being woken by your baby multiple times during the night and spending a long time re-settling, you may be tempted to try ‘control crying’ or ‘spaced soothing.’
Resist if you possibly can. Any sleep promotion method that requires you to leave your baby crying alone can have a negative psychological effect and result in her becoming clingy, insecure and fretful. Crying is your baby’s way of communicating with you and ignoring it doesn’t actually teach her to self-soothe – it just teaches her that you won’t respond. How is your baby supposed to understand that at 5pm when she cried and held out her arms to you that you picked her up, but if she does the same at 5am you won’t? Your baby may stop ‘signalling’ to you that she needs a response, but the fundamental reason for her waking has not been addressed. Gentle Re-settling Techniques ✿ Fill up your baby’s mummy or daddy ‘tank’ in the daytime. Make space to cuddle, talk, read stories, play, have a giggle, run around outside. If you’ve returned to work, create ‘super’ quality time in the golden half hours you have before and after. Don’t check your phone or do chores during this time. ✿ Do a diet check. Is he eating enough of all the right sorts of food? Is he still drinking plenty of milk? Remember ‘food before age one is just for fun’– your baby still needs milk! Could he be allergic to something? ✿ Give your baby’s bedroom an MOT – are there toys casting scary shadows? Too many teddies? Could it be too hot or cold?
✿ Check your baby’s daytime sleep requirements. Is she napping too long, too little, too late? Is bedtime too late? Is she over-tired? ✿ Give your baby plenty of time to wear himself out physically. Give him plenty of fresh air, and avoid over-use of the TV. ✿ Have a strong bed and nap-time routine. Do the same things in the same order. Finish with a book about going to sleep. ✿ When she wakes, offer her a little less than what she wants. Stay with her, but stop doing exactly what you think she wants – rocking, breastfeeding, cuddling - just before she goes back to sleep. Put her down a little earlier in the process every few nights. If she gets really upset, give her what she wants, but at the same point as before, stop and put her down again. With consistency, you should see improvements within one to two weeks, and have significantly reduced or eliminated the problem within four to six weeks.
extra
Lyndsey Hookway is a qualified Sleep Consultant and proprietor of Little Sleepers, which offers gentle and holistic family-centred sleep solutions. She conducts consultations in South West London and Surrey. For further information, visit www.littlesleepers.co.uk
EARTHLIFE WELLBEING & FITNESS
Tiny fingers and toes soon grow so fast...
...capture them forever in a beautiful cast
˷
Contact Rachel & Emma on 020 3689 4833 castinglove@live.com 07948 399 619
www.castinglove.co.uk
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Earthlife aim to provide a place of calm and relaxation where clients can benefit from a personal and holistic approach to wellbeing and fitness. This includes supporting women before and after pregnancy, with a variety of specially designed pregnancy treatments, fitness classes and workshops for pre and post birth.
Exercise Classes
Pregnancy Yoga Mum & Baby Yoga Post Natal Workout
Treatments
Pregnancy Massage Hydrotherm Massage Craniosacral Therapy Reflexology / Acupuncture Chiropractic / Osteopathy
Workshops
Breathe to a Better Birth Hypnobirthing Baby Massage Baby Resuscitation Childhood First Aid
Earthlife Wellbeing & Fitness
Arch 2, Kew Bridge Arches, Richmond, TW9 3AW T: 020 8940 0888 - E: info@earth-life.co.uk - W: www.earth-life.co.uk October 2014
HALLOWEEN AND AUTUMN HALF TERM OUTINGS
SPOOKY
From ‘Theme Park’ to ‘Scream Park’ at Chessington World of Adventures Resort By Olivia Malaure This half term, Chessington World of Adventures Resort undergoes a transformation in its brand new event, Howl’o’ween. Open every evening until 8pm from 24 October to 2 November, Chessington’s Halloween offering is a wacky week filled with frights, howls, guaranteed jumps and goose bumps – and heaps of family fun! As darkness descends, there will be plenty to sink your teeth into as you deal with an invasion of witches, vampires and giant pumpkins in surroundings dripping with spider webs, skeletons, zombies and clever lighting effects. Spooky family fun includes rides in the dark and two spine-tingling walk-through attractions. Back by popular demand are: VAMPIRE: The Haunting in the Hollows Step back in time to 1897 in Transylvania where, beyond the gates of Castle Dracula, lies the village of Black Hollow the spookiest Halloween attraction ever. The Mystery of Hocus Pocus Hall Enter the bewitching stately home of Sir Arthur, a famous explorer who vanished without trace. Solve the mystery of what happened to him and discover priceless antiques with powers of their own. Play a match of zombie ball at The Temple of Mayhem, a play area set over three floors, where mischievous guests can also fire foam balls at one another. Take a turn in the tummy curdling, mini drop tower, Jungle Bouncers – for
daring kids only - and enjoy Griffin’s Galleon, a small thrill ride and spinning pirate ship. Families can also enjoy Chessington’s new Halloween 2014 shows, Pumpkin High School of Rock and The Hairy & Scary Show. Rock on to an all-singing, all-dancing performance in Market Square and pick your favourite performer, or travel across to the Land of the Dragons to ‘meet and greet’ some new hairy and scary friends at the Wild Factor stage. Make sure your little Adventurers are pulling out all the stops with their fancy dress, too, as there is a daily fancy dress competition in Market Square with prizes up for grabs! There are 1000 animals to visit across the Zoo and SEA LIFE centre and if coming face to face
with beasts such as lions, tigers and gorillas in the dark is not enough to put you on edge, there are surprises of a different kind lurking around every corner. Daunted by the prospect of taking smaller kids out after bedtime – during the real ‘witching hour?’ Then you can experience spooky rides and attractions during the day! These include dark water ride Bubbleworks, Sea Dragons, an exciting small boat ride that
will get toddlers screeching with delight, and Dragon’s Playhouse soft play area, designed with toddlers in mind. Although last ride entry is at 8pm, if you’re in a queue at that time, you get to ride that ride! Watch your step as you venture round the Resort though, as animal eyes will follow you at every turn and you might even bump in to a few interesting individuals and challenges on your adventure…
For further information, visit www.chessington.com/halloween
Bocketts Farm Park 25th Oct - 2nd Nov
WIZARDS & WITCHES WEEK ENJOY A SPOOKTACULAR DAY OUT! Hundreds of pumpkins! Wizards and Witches Quiz Trail! Creepy crafts!
PLUS: AN INDOOR HEATED PLAY BARN! PLENTY OF FUN, WHATEVER THE WEATHER!
Don’t Miss… Animal Handling, Goat Milking, Tractor Rides, Pony Rides, Go-Karting and Pig racing EVERYDAY!
www.bockettsfarm.co.uk
#
SPECIAL
OFFER October 2014
D AR AW WI NN ING !
£1 off full price farm entry per person
(max 5 people) valid from 1st Sept – 24th Oct 2014.
Only with this voucher.
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
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SPOOKY
HALLOWEEN AND AUTUMN HALF TERM OUTINGS
Halloween at Strawberry Hill House! By Olivia Malaure
Get into the spirit of Halloween with a series of charming Halloween Workshops and Hair-Raising House Tours at gothic castle, Strawberry Hill House in Twickenham. Kids can dress up, enjoy art and craft, go on a hair-raising tour and follow anoutdoor trail. On 29 and 31 monstrous masks before being led October, decorate a magical on a terrifying adventure by local pointy hat at Pointy Hats (ages drama group Dragon Drama. 5 and under) at 11am. Or at Tours are led by Old Madge the Confusing Concoctions (ages Zombie Witch brought back 5+) at 1pm, create spells and to life when a group of children potions, using glitter, wall paper accidently discovered the spell paste, paint and other ‘nightmare’ that would release her. Children craft materials you won’t want to follow Old Madge to discover the use at home! secret that lies within the beating Top or tail your visit with a heart heard all around the house. walk or picnic in the garden The only thing keeping them safe where there is plenty of space for and hidden from danger, is their children to run around on their Monstrous Mask! imaginary broomsticks. Go on the Parents need to remain onsite Halloween outdoor trail, helping for the duration of the activity and to solve the mysterious curse of refreshments will be provided. the black Strawberry! Children who scare easy are Two types of Hair-Raising recommended to attend the 5pm House Tour are on offer on tour! 30 and 31 October, starting at If you dare to do something 5pm for children ages 4 to 7 and different with your kids this 6.30pm for children ages 8+. half term, then you’ll need to Children will create their own pre-book tickets! For more information and booking, visit www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk
event
Join us & our
Amazing Spooky Animals this october half term see website for details
www.hounslowurbanfarm.co.uk Fagg’s Rd Feltham TW14 0LZ 020 8831 9658 24
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
Things That Go Bump in the Night at the Hounslow Urban Farm By Casey Strong
The Hounslow Urban Farm in Feltham will be hosting its one-night-only Halloween event on 30 October – and it promises to be a Thriller! Children can meet and SPEAK with night-time Halloween animals and meet hairy-legged tarantulas, lizards, snakes, and other nocturnal creatures and creepy crawlies. The ever-popular Ghost Owl, will once again
turn heads as it soars across the Urban Farm in an Owl Display. The team at the Farm are already busy compiling their Halloween party playlist for the perfect night of music and dancing, during which kids can sing their most frightful tunes, as well as toasting marshmallows and carving pumpkins. Throughout half term, children can meet and learn about their favourite farmyard friends and some slightly more exotic animals in daily Animal Encounters, pig races and owl displays at the Farm. “We’re incredibly passionate about animals and our passion is conveyed through our Animal Encounter sessions” says Alice, who runs the farm with her father.
For more information, visit www.hounslowurbanfarm.co.uk
Magical Woodland Week at the Pottery CaféBy Karen East Twickenham! Barnett Just a stroll away from Marble Hill and its 66 acres of parkland, it’s only natural that The Pottery Café in East Twickenham is celebrating the October Half Term with Magical Woodland Week, and activities inspired by nature. It aims to capture both the beauty of nature combined with the mystery of the woodlands as the leaves fall and the season changes. The Pottery Café has introduced a beautiful new range of paints in autumnal colours, along with a range of fun, nature-based sponges perfect for little hands, including autumn leaves, blackberries, acorns, hedgehogs, fairies and toadstools. ‘Little painters can express themselves using paints and easy to hold
sponges that help to make the pottery painting easier. Any novice can create something very beautiful with the help of our sponges’ says Liz Schultz from The Pottery Café. The perfect activity for parents to enjoy with their kids, you can all choose from a menu of handmade English pottery, select your paints and sponges, roll up your sleeves and have a go! The Pottery Café is offering a free tea or coffee for all painters during Magical Woodland Week and FREE marshmallows for little painters. With extended hours from 9am to 6pm Monday 27 to Friday 31 October, it’s a gentle, nourishing way to spend an afternoon. Bookings are recommended. Studio fees are £5.99 per person plus the cost of the pottery.
For more information, visit www.pottery-cafe.com October 2014
Only s inute 30 m ntral Ce from don Lon
Selected early evenings from November
Family
Ghost tours PA RT Y WiT H uS! Our Hobblers know a thing or two about what makes a good birthday party, so celebrate your special day at our award-winning adventure park and farm. Voted Netmums’ ‘Best Outdoor Play Venue in the South East’ Visit www.hobbledown.com Find us at:
Hobbledown Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8PT T: 0843 289 4979 E: thehobblers@hobbledown.com
Join us for a fun, spooky evening at Hampton Court Palace
www.hobbledown.com
Suitable for 8–14 year olds
Follow us on facebook; hobbledownuk
To book, call 0844 482 7777 or visit hrp.org.uk/hamptoncourtpalace
and twitter; @Hobbledown
Horace’s House of Horror
10150_QuarterPgAd_133x91mm_Angels&Urchins.indd 1
30/06/2014 13:02
From 25 to 31 October
Fill your half term with horror at Horace’s gothic castle. From Confusing Concoctions to Monstrous Masks: A Spooky Tour, witches and wizards will have a fantastical time at Strawberry Hill this Halloween. Advance booking required. Find out more at www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk or call 020 8744 1241 sponsored by
October 2014
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
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HALLOWEEN AND AUTUMN HALF TERM OUTINGS Wizard Week at the Watercress LineBy Casey Strong
It All Started on Platform 9¾. JK Rowling was travelling back to London, on a crowded train, and the idea for Harry Potter simply popped into her head! Harry Potter continues to captivate young and old alike and now, this October half term, you can walk in his footsteps over the railway footbridge where he received his Hogwarts Express Ticket. The famous film location from Kings Cross station has been transported to Hampshire and now lives at the Watercress Line in Hampshire. There will be lots of Hocus Pocus on the line this between 31 October and 2 November. Come along dressed as a witch, wizard or spook, enjoy a Halloween-themed Falconry
Display, and meet bat experts to find out more about these fascinating creatures, as well as owls and other eerie animals and bird of the night. Kids can also enjoy the traditional craft of broomstick making, as well as face painting, art and craft and the Mr Wizard and the Haunted Castle Magic Show. Entry to this special event is by train ticket. Families can buy a ticket at Arlesford station and take the 15 minute train journey to Ropley where there is a picnic area and playground. A round trip of the line takes about 90 minutes.
For more information about travelling to Platform 9¾, visit www.watercressline.co.uk
Witches and Wizards Week at Bocketts Farm! By Olivia Malaure Shrieks of delight, cauldrons of fun and fabulous freaky activities await energetic guests at the award-winning Bocketts Farm near Leatherhead, this autumn half term. The Play Barn, which is nothing short of a kid’s paradise, will be spookily transformed with Halloween decorations and hundreds of pumpkins. You can even buy one to take home! A Witches Quiz Trail will keep young witches and wizards spellbound, and there are lots of Creepy Crafts to get stuck into. There are two fabulous soft play areas, a go-karting track and enough to keep kids bouncing, sliding and climbing from 10am until tea time.
Meet and feed all of the farm animals in the Animal Barns, which are sympathetically set up for children. The chipmunks are delightful to watch and if you’ve never met a Zebu before, now’s your chance! Daily activities include pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing and outside there are two large outdoor playgrounds, one for younger and one for older children. Bocketts Farm really does keep curious kids of all ages entertained. If it’s cold outside, let them work up a scary sweat indoors while you conserve your energy, keep warm with a hot drink and browse through the pumpkin selection!
For further information, visit www.bockettsfarm.co.uk
Mysterious Tales and Torchlit Trails with the National Trust! By Karen Barnett Get ready to celebrate Halloween at local National Trust properties this half term. Claremont Landscape Garden in Esher is a great place to enjoy autumn at any time,
and, at half term, you can enjoy it spooky-style at its Halloween events. There’s FREE entry all week to children dressed in Halloween costume. Halloween Events: Halloween Trail, Craft and Pumpkin Carving 27-30 October 11am to 1pm
Spooktacular Lakeside Walk and Storytelling 31 October 4pm Suitable for children ages 5 to 12. Dress up, grab a lantern, and don’t forget your boots and torch! Reputed to be one of the most haunted houses in Britain, you can discover the ghostly tales of Ham House, a Thames-side Stuart mansion haunted by Elizabeth, a Duchess, who spent the last few years of her life alone there. As you wander through the darkened house, you may hear her footsteps as she creeps up the Great Stairs. Halloween Event: Family Ghost Tours 27-31 October 4.30pm to 5.30pm. Osterley Park and House is beautiful in the autumn, and the kids can collect conkers, climb trees and tick some more things
off their ’50 Things to Do Before You Are 11¾’ list. There is also the drop-in Little Seedlings Gardening Club to be enjoyed on 28 October (12pm to 4pm) and the FREE Craft Cart on 30 October (12pm to 4pm). Halloween Event: Halloween Pumpkin Festival 25/26 October 12pm to 4pm There are fun and silly games and spooky craft activities to enjoy, as well as a terrifying trail, to be attempted only if you dare! Kids can get ghoulish with a Halloween face-paint and learn how to carve a pumpkin. Get ready to celebrate Halloween at Morden Hall Park, Polesden Lacey and many other NT properties too, including activities like spooky crafts, paper lantern making, bug hunts, creepy nature trails and face painting. And, of course, creating that perfect pumpkin!
For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk 26
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October 2014
HALLOWEEN AND AUTUMN HALF TERM OUTINGS
SPOOKY
Family Ghost Tours Return to Hampton Court Palace! Local mother Stephanie Weston spooks us with the tale of her tour “I saw an eye on the other side and it was looking at me!” calls out daughter a stranger’s child. squeezes
My 8 year old squirms and my hand. We’re standing at our meeting point outside Hampton Court Palace in the dark, soaking up the spooky atmosphere and waiting for our Ghost Tour of the Palace to begin. Pumpkins, lanterns and dramatically lit gargoyles cast ominous shadows over us. Children are spying through the small knot holes of the intimidating wooden doors that barricade our entry to the palace, their imaginations on overdrive as they report “I think I heard a ghost cough!” and “I saw a headless knight. With blood on his sword and everything!” My daughter turns to me and says “I can hear keys jangling. Someone is really coming – or is it something?” I can’t actually tell if she is calling my bluff or if she’s been sucked into the supernatural hype. “During the next hour and a half, you will hear stories of all the unexplained things that have happened in this historic palace”announces our tour guide impressively dressed in late Victorian black clothing. “And it will be up to you to decide whether ghosts were at work or not.” The children are scarily silent. We shiver as we hear about The Ghost of Jane Seymour, Henry VIII’s third wife who lived (and died!) at Hampton Court Palace. She now returns as a ghostly lady in a long white gown carrying a lighted taper down the Silver Stick Staircase and out into Clock Court. Moving into Clock Court, we are told “this is the Clock of Death. Over the past 400 years the clock has stopped at the same moment that a number of people have died.”Gulp! My daughter spends a great deal of time on the tour trying to freak me out, pretending to
wave to people she says are only visible to her, and stepping over various household pets, inspired by the story our guide tells us about the Palace’s ghostly dog that guests regularly report tripping over in the shop. Hampton Court Palace comes complete with a haunted gallery, where reportedly a number of people have seen and heard a woman believed to be the Ghost of Catherine Howard, Henry VIII’s fifth wife. Legend has it that on the night after she was arrested for treason, she ran shrieking down the gallery. As we turn our backs on the palace and head home, my daughter announces “You were right about me bringing my thick coat, mum. Otherwise I would have been truly chilled to the bone!” Our slightly nervous post-tour laughter eerily echoes through the six and a half acre building and my daughter pretends to trip over the ghost of a large dog...again! Celebrate Halloween with a Hampton Court Palace Ghost Tour on the evening of Saturday 1 November! Or book ahead for 20 December, 3 January, 14 February or 21 February. Tours last 75-90 minutes are suitable for children age 8 and above.
For more information, visit www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace October 2014
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
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HALLOWEEN AND AUTUMN HALF TERM OUTINGS Monstrous Fun at Hobbledown
Halloween Spookfest at London Museum of Water and Steam
By Karen Barnett
By Olivia Malaure
Little monsters can enjoy a week of spooky and exciting Halloween fun at the multi-award winning Hobbledown this October Half Term – and don their most inventive Halloween costumes for the chance of a prize. There’s icky puddles of pretend slime to be squelched through in the eerie dungeons of the Merrymakers Maze, a wooden labyrinth ripe for adventure. Your kids will frighten the living daylights out of you by making ghostly noises through the ‘spy holes!’ And dark shadows to be lurked in beneath the Hobbledown Village in the 70 metres of ghoulish passages, accessed by seven trap doors. Under-5s need to be accompanied, as it can be a little frightening in the dark –
especially at Halloween! For something more traditional but just as hilarious, try a Halloween activity like apple bobbing. Younger visitors can enjoy ‘not-quite-sospooky’ ghost stories with the Hobbledown characters, who will be up to no good as they wander round the farm greeting children. Whatever ages your children, all their pent up adrenalin can be burned off in the variety of exciting climbing areas and sandpits outside, and in the indoor play barn, an ideal place for grown-ups to sit down and catch up while their fearless Hobblers fill their stomachs. When they are worn out, introduce them to Hobbledown’s unique collection of animals including Racoon dogs, Wallabies, Chinchillas, alpacas, pigs, and donkeys or watch a falconry display (28 Oct to 2 Nov).
For more information, visit www.hobbledown.com
From 25 October to 2 November, the new London Museum of Water and Steam in Brentford is offering a variety of Halloween activities at Spookfest, perfect for younger children, or those that prefer more gentle Halloween fun. These will include a ‘watery’ ghost train experience, a creepy trail in the museum gardens and Halloween craft activities. Children in Halloween costume get FREE entry to the museum! If you prefer not to have to dress your kids up in Halloween gear, put them in their wet weather clothes instead, so they can play in the outdoor Splash Zone, before warming
up inside the historic engine house. There’s a great coffee shop serving delicious snacks and drinks and a gift shop with some unique gifts for grown-ups and children. But don’t wait until half term to visit the London Museum of Water and Steam! On the weekend of 11/12 October, children can participate in the BIGGEST drawing festival in world - the Big Draw - at the museum! Kids can make clay tiles inspired by the creatures that live in the Thames. The museum underwent a major redevelopment during 2013, and the new major gallery exhibition telling the story of London’s water supply, past, present and future is a fascinating and fabulous treat for children and adults to explore. It’s great value too and for just £1 on top of the general admission ticket you can buy an annual pass.
For more information, visit www.waterandsteam.org.uk
hallowe'en family fun Osterley Park and House Hallowe'en Pumpkin Festival
020 8232 5050 nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley
28
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© National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.
Sat 25 & Sun 26 October, 12-4pm Silly games, pumpkin carving and spooky craft activities. Complete our terrifying trail, or get ghoulish by having your face painted. Dress up to receive a treat (or trick!)
October 2014
AUTUMN HALF TERM WORKSHOPS AND ACTIVITIES ART AND CRAFT HALLOWEEN
Ceramica Claygate at Half Term and Halloween!
27-31 October 10am - 6pm daily (Sundays by appointment) For Ages: All Renowned for its award-winning shop windows (voted Best Shop Display in Elmbridge in 2013), it’s worth popping along just to take a look at Ceramica’s Halloween display. And, of course, while you are there you can drop in with the kids and paint pumpkin lanterns, ghost
bowls and other Halloweenthemed pottery. A warm, cosy and friendly atmosphere is guaranteed, with proprietor, Hannah Young, going out of her way to make everyone feel welcome. On 31 October, Ceramica will be open until 7pm for some spooktacular fun and a 10% discount on Halloween pottery painted on that day! Contact: Hannah Young Hannah@ceramica-claygate.co.uk 01372 462447
Magical Woodland Week at the Pottery Café East Twickenham
27-31 October 9am-6pm For Ages: All Let little imaginations run wild during Magical Woodland week at the Pottery Café. Free marshmallows for all little painters! info@pottery-cafe.com 020 8744 3000 www.pottery-cafe.com
Just Imagine Ballet (formally Twinkle Toes Ballet)
Enchanting & magical classes with props, puppets & pictures to inspire & delight children from
18 months - 10 years old
Places available Enrolling now! phone: 07879 521 457 email: info@twinkletoesballet.com RICHMOND - TWICKENHAM - KEW - EAST SHEEN October 2014
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
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AUTUMN HALF TERM WORKSHOPS AND ACTIVITIES COOKING
DANCE
Sassy Stirrers Choco-Mania and Halloween Workshops
Just Imagine Ballet’s 3 Day Trick or Treat Halloween Camp
30 October Choc-Mania 31 October Halloween 10.30am-3.00pm in Surbiton and Effingham For Ages: 5 to 12 years Price: £35 per day or both days for £68 Two separate but equally delicious cooking workshops! Whip up chocolate concoctions, like monster chocolate cookies, and enjoy lots of chocolate tastings in Choco-Mania. In Halloween, make squidgy muffins, spooky sausage surprises, and popping eyeballs perfect for taking home and enjoying that evening! Enjoy lots of wand-licking fun plus learn helpful cooking tips. Relax with fun, foody games after the cooking.
Music & Tuition Centre
Music classes & camps
27-29 October 10am-1pm in Richmond For Ages: 3+ Price: £96 No ballet experience necessary to join in the fun at Just Imagine Ballet’s exciting Halloween Camp. Dress up and dance presentation to family on the last day. Contact: info@twinkletoesballet.com 07879 521546
Limited places available! Contact: Susan info@sassystirrers.com 07789 792676 www.sassystirrers.com
HALLOWEEN HALLOWEEN
MUSIC
in
Richmond 3-5yrs & 6-9yrs
Tara’s Ukulele Groups
Pre-sch & After-sch: Thursdays 5-10s: Sing, Jam, Play in a band
Mozo Island: Music/Art
Club:Mondays/Camp:Oct 27-31 5-18s: Vocal Tuition & Workshops
Upgrade your Voice Mon-Sat: with Olga
…Also... 7-12yrs Ritz Kids Band: Fridays 7pm
5-14yrs Ritz Kids Choir: Saturdays 10.45am Instrument Hire, 121 & Group Lessons
020 83321488 88 Sheen Rd, TW9 1UF
ritzmusic.co.uk
Workshops at Ritz Music in Richmond! Mozo Island Music Explorers Workshop
27-31 October 9.30-3pm (with half days available) For Ages: 5 to 8 years Fun music and art combined, with the opportunity for kids to learn beginners guitar, keyboard, recorder, ukulele and drum, as well
CARPENTRY WORKSHOPS, CLASSES AND WOODWORK PROJECTS FOR CHILDREN Classes for 5 -12 year olds starting in Weybridge & Cobham in November www.constructakids.co.uk info@constructakids.co.u
k
07968 770123 30
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
as solve puzzles and find secret locations on a treasure map with prizes. Price: £38 per day or £22 per half day. Discounts: Sibling pays £22 per day or £17 per half day. 50% off on Wednesday morning! 4 session discount! Check website for other offers. Contact: James Tucker mozoisland@gmail.com 07899 811703 mozoislandmusicschool.blogspot.com
Ritz Music Rock Band Workshop
27-31 October For Ages: 11-17 Attention drummers, guitarists, bass players, singers, brass and keyboard players! Come and join the ‘band!’ Learn some classic rock/pop tunes and perform them at the end of the course! www.ritzmusic.co.uk
Would you like to try something different? Why not paint your own ceramics? At Ceramica, we guarantee great fun for all! Our services include: Children’s birthday parties Baby foot and hand print sessions Evening sessions for adults Annual membership scheme Take home packs & gift vouchers 7 The Parade, Claygate, Esher, KT10 0PD Phone: 01372 462447 Making ceramic painting easy and fun in a creative, enjoyable environment!
www.ceramica-claygate.co.uk
Twitter: @CeramicaEsher Facebook: www.facebook.com/CeramicaClaygate
October 2014
AUTUMN HALF TERM WORKSHOPS AND ACTIVITIES DRAMA
Bridge Storytelling Adventures
Pyjama Drama Flying Through the Sky Workshop
27 October in Walton 28 October in Ashtead 30 October in Oxshott 9.30-12.30 For Ages: 5 to 7 years Price: £20 per child or £36 for two siblings. If I looked up into the magical night sky, what would I see? Would a whole new world be twinkling down at me? There may be a few dazzling fireworks exploding way up high, even a dancing kite or a swooping plane... but what will our imaginations spy through our binoculars next? A morning filled with drama games, songs and activities designed to ignite the imagination! Children share their favourite bits of the morning with friends and families at the end. Contact: Phylly 01932 807150 phylly@pyjamadrama.com www.pyjamadrama.com
Monster Mayhem Camp 27-31 October 10am-12 noon in Twickenham For Ages: 2 to 5 years Price: £85 per week or £25 per day drop-in. The perfect Halloween treat for your little monsters! This workshop explores some of our favourite child-friendly monsters from popular books, cartoons and films Each day children will meet a different monster and go on an adventure jam-packed with song, dance, drama and art and craft. Attend for the full week, or individual days!
Theatrebugs Spooktastic Half Term Workshop
FOOTIE TOTS
Welcome to the world of fitness and football for 2.5 to 5 year olds Teaching basic ball skills, scoring lots of goals and having FUN!
FOOTIE WIZARDS For children ages 5 to 8
For Early Bug and sibling discounts, promotional offers and further locations, see website. Contact: Hannah Mason 01483 882244/07971 004134 hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk
AVAILABLE
Award winning classes from newborn to 5 years
01932 221 371
waltononthames@gymboree-uk.com
Gymboree Surbiton
October 2014
In
Sensory Baby Play, Play & Learn, Music, Art & Parties!
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0208 941 0766
www.mumsplayshop.co.uk
Book a FREE trial class today! Gymboree Walton on Thames
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with K on fd
2013 winner!
‘Best national pre-schooler development activity’
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The Yellow Building, Hampton Academy Hanworth Road, Hampton, TW12 3HB
Esher, Molesey, Thames Ditton, Walton, Kingston and Surbiton, call 07828 629531
HALLOWEEN
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Sftftftftftftftftftftftftftft Afttft & Cftftftftftftftftft Outdftftft Aftftft Bftuncft Cftfttftftft Biftthdftft ftftfttititi
Hampton, Teddington, Twickenham, Richmond, Feltham and Hounslow, ALL CLASSES call 07931 707720 HELD INDOORS andy@footie-tots.co.uk FOOTBALL PARTIES
020 3609 8007
surbiton@gymboree-uk.com
Gymboree St Margarets 020 8607 9995
stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com .u k
29-30 October 9am-12noon in Cobham 1.30-4.30pm in Weybridge One day option subject to availability. For Ages: 3.5 to 7 years Price: £48 for two days. Spooktastic adventures packed with drama, music, dance and art and craft. Nothing too spooky and different material each day. Come in your favourite costume - the Bugs will dress up too! Day 1: The animals are all asleep: help Barry Bat find someone to Trick or Treat with! Day 2: Anansi the Spider wants to throw a party but everyone is afraid of spiders. Can the boys and girls solve Anansi’s and Barry’s problems?
Discount: Bring a buddy or sibling and both pay only £55 for the week or £15.50 for HALLOWEEN the day! Contact: Amanda Wright 020 3222 3085/07890 013830 info@bridgeac.co.uk www.bridgeac.com
.co es ats o n 4 li t t l e o n
gymboree-uk.com
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
31
classes, clubs activities
&
dance
Pursuing Your Passion This edited extract from Finding Your Element by Ken Robinson shows why children do best in life when encouraged to nurture their passions.
Childrens Flamenco Wednesdays from 4.45pm Adults from 7.15pm classes at all levels SDS syllabus Stanley School, Teddington, TW11 8UH
07833195361
bettycidflamenco.co.uk
THE GREEN SCHOOL & ST JOHNS CHURCH, ISLEWORTH 2-14yrs Pre-school Dance (2-4) Pre-school tap (2-4) RAD Ballet (5-14) Contemporary Dance (5-8) Street Dance (5-14)
Ballet Performance Group (10-14)
Street Dance Crew (AUDITION ONLY) info@katesschoolofdance.co.uk www.katesschoolofdance.co.uk
07957639460
FREE TASTER SESSION
At 8 years of age, Gillian’s future was already at risk. Her handwriting was poor, she didn’t do well in school tests and struggled with homework. She was disruptive in class and distracted the children around her. Her school wrote to her parents suggesting Gillian had a learning disorder. The year was 1930. Nobody knew about ADHD and Ritalin hadn’t even been invented. So Gillian’s mother put her daughter in her best dress and shoes and took her to a psychiatrist. The psychiatrist grilled Gillian’s mother about the difficulties Gillian was having at school. He then put on some music and took her mother out into the corridor.“Watch what she does” he said. They stood to one side of a window, where Gillian couldn’t see them. Almost immediately, Gillian was on her feet, moving around the room to the music. The two adults stood watching quietly for a few minutes, transfixed by her grace. There was something natural - even primal - about Gillian’s movements and an expression of utter pleasure on her face. At last, the psychologist turned to Gillian’s mother and said “You know, Mrs. Lynne, Gillian isn’t sick. She’s a dancer. Take her to a dance school.” Gillian’s mother did exactly what the psychiatrist suggested. “I can’t tell you how wonderful it was” Gillian told me. “I walked
into this room, and it was full of people like me. People who couldn’t sit still. People who had to move to think.” Gillian eventually joined the Royal Ballet Company itself, becoming a soloist and performing all over the world. She went on to produce highly successful shows in London and New York, creating with Andrew Lloyd Webber some of the most successful musical theatre productions in history, including Cats and The Phantom of the Opera. Little Gillian, the girl with the high-risk future, became known to the world as Gillian Lynne, one of the most accomplished choreographers of our time. Gillian wasn’t a problem child. She just needed to be who she really was. She needed to dance.
extra
Finding Your Element by Ken Robinson is available from Amazon.
Get your kids ready for sport! • Catching and throwing • Improve movement skills • Loads of ball games • Fun for children from 18 months Thames Ditton & Surbiton call 020 8972 9223 or email roz@catch-a-balls.co.uk Kington, Richmond, Twickenham, Teddington, Hampton call 020 8398 3034 or email heather @catch-a-balls.co.uk
www.catch-a-balls.co.uk 32
Saturday 22nd November
The Leatherhead Theatre 7 Church Street, Leatherhead, KT22 8DN Matinee: 1.30pm Evening: 5.30pm Tickets: £12 (£8 under 16’s and over 60’s) Box Office: 01372 365141 www.theleatherheadtheatre.org www.protogem.co.uk
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk 55mm x 90mm
Families Upon Thames Magazine
BDA Advert_v5.indd 1
October 2014 31/05/2013 18:47
classes, clubs activities
New ConstructaKids Woodwork Classes Launch in North Surrey! Previous generations frequently learned to use tools and gained basic woodworking skills at the workbenches of their fathers or grandfathers. However, today’s parents increasingly either lack these skills themselves, or don’t have the time to pass them on to their children. Coupled with the fact that practical craft skills have gradually been eroded from the school curriculum, this means that children these days have no real opportunity to hone their woodworking skills. Experienced local carpenter and parent, Martin Dallinger has noticed an increasing interest in his work – from his clients’ children!“More and more often, I’m greeted at a client’s house by their children, who are eager to watch and learn about what I’m doing” he says. “Since having children of my own, I’ve also
experienced, at first hand, how much enjoyment and learning they can gain from woodwork.” At ConstructaKids classes, children can build a variety of fun projects and learn a wide range of valuable carpentry and construction skills such as measuring, fractions, sawing, drilling, sanding, shaping, assembly, and painting. Hand in hand with these practical skills comes the exploration of other educational concepts such as abstract reasoning, mathematics, problem solving, honing of fine motor skills, respect for tools, and (hopefully) patience! ConstructaKids is offering weekly term time woodwork classes for children under 12. Projects will vary depending on the age and experience level of the child, but will be typically be based on a theme, which could range from puppets, animals,
vehicles, and go-karts, to making toys and mazes and buildings. Classes will run in Weybridge and Cobham starting after October half term. There will also be introductory workshops
&
running at the Medicine Garden in Cobham on 22 November. For more information, visit www.constructakids.co.uk
for more information and to book call Mona: 07429 180865 email: mona.zaharia @ diddidance.com
or look on our webite
Australia’s largest
multi-sport & exercise
NOW IN THE
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program for children aged 2–7 years
NO OBLIGATION
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Sports covered: Football Tennis Basketball Athletics Hockey Rugby Golf AFL Cricket T-ball
Your local Ready Steady Go Kids Classes are held at venues near you in Chessington, Kingston and Richmond. Term 1 begins 1st September 2014 (10 week term with a break for half term)
@RSGKUK ReadySteadyGoKidsUK
October 2014
www.rsgk.co.uk info@rsgk.co.uk 0800 690 6591
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33
it’s
party time
Parties for Each Age and Stage
By Joanna Moorhead The “perfect” party for your child will vary according to their age. Here are some helpful guidelines for the various stages.
Parties for Ages 0 to 3
Birthday parties for very small children can be marvellous, memorable affairs but they need to be simple. The key is in creating a fun, easy, safe space in which little ones can play. You can do this at home, in a hall, in an under 5s play café, or you can head for your nearest Little Gym or Gymboree, which have premises, equipment and an age-appropriate party programme.You will also find many entertainers experienced in catering to this age-group. At this age, parents will definitely remain with their children so you are catering as much for them as anyone else. They may be happiest relaxing at your home, or prefer an outside venue, particularly if comes equipped with toys or activities that will engage their little ones!
Parties for Ages 4 to 6
Parties can now be a bit more ambitious. Children of this age have bags of energy, so sports-based parties work well, as do parties with traditional party games. Alternatively, a great entertainer who will know how to control the crowds and produce shrieks and laughter at the same time. Bouncy castles are always fun if you venue is big enough, or you can hold a hassle-free party at a soft play centre. Themed parties and dressing up are great for this age group. Pirates, princesses, or parties based on a favourite book or TV programme are usually big hits. A party
Ceramics Café Kew Original Ceramics - Painted By You Studio Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-6pm Sunday 11am-6pm Closed Mon, except Bank Holidays and Half Terms www.ceramicscafe.com Tel: 020 8332 6661
1a Mortlake Terrace, Kew Green Richmond TW9 3DT
entertainment company will set up a themed party for you, or you can have a go yourself!
Parties for Ages 7 to 9
Activity-based parties, such as baking or art and craft, work well for this age group. You can set up a party like this yourself at home or, if you don’t fancy the idea of cleaning up the mess, bring in a specialist party provider. For a baking party, choose something easy to make like shortbread biscuits. Weigh out all the ingredients before the children arrive, get them to mix them, and have a range of interesting cookie cutters available. The children can then decorate the biscuits and play a few party games while they are in the oven. A nice activity-based alternative outside of the home is a visit to a local pottery painting studio.
Parties for Ages 10 to 12
Older children like going out to celebrate and may be encouraged to keep the number of guests down in exchange for a visit to somewhere they consider special, whether it is an indoor climbing centre, ice or bowling
rink, roller disco, pamper parlour or paintball venue. Alternatively, older children may be prepared to forego a party altogether in favour of a family outing like a West End show. If you do organise an actual party, rest assured it will need to be ‘cool.’ It’s advisable to chat at length with your child to ensure you’ve understood exactly what they want and that you can deliver it within your budget!
The Five Golden Rules ✸ Avoid parties lasting more than two hours, particularly for younger children
✸ Always have a party bag! For older
children, one more expensive gift is often better than lots of smaller ones. ✸ Have a time-plan for the party ✸ Include a variety of food options that will cater for fussy eaters, vegetarians or those with food intolerances ✸ For ease, include cupcakes in party bags, rather than slices of birthday cake.
For local party providers, check out our comprehensive Party Directory online in the Family Life/Children’s Parties section at www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
Maisy’s Children’s Parties
Magical and Memorable Parties for 0-8 years Building We love to make Confidence children’s dreams Through come true! Richmond, Teddington, Kingston, SW London & Surrey
Play
020 8123 6484/07779 096129 info@maisys-childrens-parties.co.uk www.maisys-childrens-parties.co.uk 34
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
October 2014
what’s on EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES THU 2,9,16, 23 OCT AND SAT 11, 15 OCT TINY EXPLORERS AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey KT8 9AU 0844 482 7777 For Ages: 0-3yrs Time sessions 10.30am-3.30pm Cost: £6 per session Discover the fascinating stories of Hampton Court Palace in these multi-sensory workshops. Through music, movement and messy play, you and your little one will be transported into a magical world of stories. Booking required. 0844 482 7799 www.hrp.org.uk FRI 3 TO SUN 5 OCT POLESDEN LACEY FOOD FESTIVAL Great Bookham, near Dorking RH5 6BD Time: 10.30am onwards Cost: FREE with normal admission Sample the delicacies of local food and drink producers, and learn a few tricks of the trade in expert food demonstrations throughout the day. 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/polesden-lacey SAT 4 OCT 15 MINUTES OF FUN AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT Time: 1.30-3.30pm Cost: FREE Free drop-in family craft session. Join in to make paper windmills. 01932 565764 www. chertseymuseum.org FUNGI FORAY AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG For Ages: 7+ Time: 10.30am-12.30pm Cost: Adult £8, Child £4 Join expert Sara Shepley for a seasonal Fungi Foray and learn how to identify the many different types of fungi growing around the garden. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/claremont-landscapegarden FAMILY FUN AT ELMBRIDGE MUSEUM Church Street, Weybridge KT13 8DE Time: 2-4.30pm Cost: £1.50 Creative family fun activities. 01932 843573 www.elmbridge.gov.uk SAT 4 TO SUN 5 OCT FUN PALACE AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS Watermans will be transformed into a palace with a difference – quirkiness, magic, music and fun for families will be the name of the game, plus late-night opening, fire and DJs for grownups. www.funpalaces.co.uk SAT 4 TO SUN 5 OCT AND SAT 1 TO SUN 2 NOV TUDOR AND GEORGIAN CHOCOLATE COOKERY AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey, KT8 9AU Time: 10am-6pm Cost: FREE with normal admission See the intrepid team of history chefs prepare a feast fit for a king and witness first-hand the elaborate process of making chocolate at a live chocolate making demonstrations 0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk October 2014
EVERY SAT AND SUN IN OCT FAMILY ART ACTIVITIES AT HAM HOUSE Ham Street, Ham TW10 7RS Time: 10am-5pm Cost: FREE with normal admission Free family art activities in the below-stairs rooms. Create an art piece inspired by your visit. 020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/ham-house SAT 4 OCT & 1 NOV KIDS RUN FREE AT MARBLE HILL PARK Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 2NL For Ages: 0-16 Time: 9am Cost: FREE Kids Run Free is a charity dedicated to inspiring healthier, happier and more confident children. 08703331181 www.kidsrunfree.co.uk SUN 5 OCT THAMES DITTON MINIATURE RAILWAY OPEN DAY Claygate Lane, Thames Ditton KT7 OLE Time: 1-5.30pm Cost: FREE admission Rides: Single £2, Day £6.50, Family £24 Rides every few minutes on two separate railways. Trains are usually hauled by model scale steam locomotives, with some hauled by diesel and electric locomotives. Some trains may be hauled by diesel and electric locomotives. Grassy picnic area. 0208 398 3985 www.malden-dsme.co.uk TUE 7 OCT EXPECTANT PARENT EVENT AT MOTHERCARE KEW Richmond Retail Park, Mortlake Road, Richmond TW9 4AD Time: 6.30-10.30pm Cost: FREE Learn more about essential baby products and key parenting topics from in-store experts and guest professionals. 020 8878 3758 www.mothercare.com FRI 10 OCT CLASSICAL BABIES CONCERT IN TEDDINGTON Landmark Arts Centre, Ferry Rd, Teddington TW11 9NN Time: 11-11.45am Cost: Adults £10, babies FREE Relax and enjoy 45 minutes of classical music by professional musicians in a comfortable and friendly environment. Soft blankets available for babies who can make as much noise as they like! 020 8977 7558 www.classicalbabies.com SAT 11 OCT BIG DRAW FAMILY ART WORKSHOP AT LANDMARK ARTS CENTRE Ferry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN Time: 2-4pm Cost: £2 per child Fun drop-in family art session led by artist Stuart Simler. No need to book, just turn up on the day. Materials provided. 020 8977 7558 www.landmarkartscentre.org BIG DRAW AT THE LONDON MUSEUM OF WATER AND STEAM Green Dragon Lane, Brentford, TW8 0EN Time: 11am-4pm Cost: FREE with normal admission Release your inner artist and take part in the biggest drawing festival in the UK by creating clay
tiles inspired by the creatures living the Thames. 020 8568 4757 www.waterandsteam.org.uk NCT FAMILY EXPO IN TWICKENHAM York House, Richmond Rd TW1 3AA Time: 10.30am-1.30pm Cost: £3.50 Antenatal support, complementary therapists, baby equipment, baby and toddler classes, exercises and wellbeing, photographers, toys and much more! www.nct.org.uk/twickenham SAT 18 OCT YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGY CLUB AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey, KT16 8AT For Ages: 8 to 16. Time: 11am-12.30pm or 2-3.30pm Cost: £4.50 Site visits, artefact handling and investigation, and art and craft activities. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org CHILDREN’S PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP AT POLESDEN LACEY Great Bookham, near Dorking RH5 6BD For Ages: 10+ Time: 10am-3pm Cost: £60 per day Learn to take amazing shots of the world around you, and get the most from your camera. 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/polesden-lacey TIME TRACERS AT KINGSTON MUSEUM Wheatfield Way, Kingston KT1 2PS For Ages: 7-11 Time: 10.30am-12pm. Cost: £5 Discover the means and methods of unravelling the past. Dig up clues to what came before, discover ancient craft techniques and piece together fragments of information as you journey through time with the eye of an archaeologist 020 8547 5006 www.kingston.gov.uk/museum 18 OCT TO 2 NOV DEADLY AND DISGUSTING PLANTS AND FUNGI AT KEW GARDENS Kew Rd, Richmond, TW9 3AB Time: 9.30am-6pm Cost: FREE with normal admission Notorious plants in the Princess of Wales Conservatory, to an interactive poisons quest, the season highlights the ensnaring, bewitching and lethal powers of the natural world. 020 8332 5655 www.kew.org SUN 19 OCT COLOURS OF AUTUMN TREE WALK AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Rd, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Time: 2-3.30pm Cost: Adult £6, child £3 Join the Ranger on a guided tour discovering stories about the rare and interesting trees at Osterley. Enjoy the riot of autumn colour that abounds in the great meadow as you explore the hidden history 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/osterley-park FUNGI FORAY AT PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE Time: 11am & 2pm Cost: Adults £10, Child under 16 £5 Join Painshill’s expert Dr Brian Spooner for a fungi-finding stroll. 01932 868 113 www.painshill.co.uk
LUCKY DIP DISCO AT RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ For Ages: Under 7s Time: 3-5pm Cost: Child £6, Adult £4 Retro Disco for children and families to dance together. Booking required. 01932 254198 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk TRANSPORT FEST AT BROOKLAND’S MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 10am-5pm Cost: FREE with normal admission Extensive bus displays, including rarely-seen early examples, and smaller displays of taxis, commercials, military and emergency vehicles. Heritage bus tours and rides, a large collector’s market and childrens’ attractions. 01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com
HALLOWEEN AND HALF TERM
FRI 24 OCT TO SUN 2 NOV HOWL’O’WEEN AT CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES Leatherhead Rd, Chessington KT9 2NE Time: 10am-8pm Cost: FREE with normal admission A spooky week filled with frights, howls and family fun to give you jumps and goosebumps. Open every night until 8pm, with two spine-tingling walk-through attractions, two brand new Halloween shows, rides in the dark, a daily fancy dress competition for young Adventurers and over 1000 animals across the Zoo and SEA LIFE centre. 0871 663 4477 www.chessington.com SAT 25 OCT TO SUN 26 OCT HALLOWEEN PUMPKIN FESTIVAL AT OSTERLEY HOUSE Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Time: 12-4pm Cost: Normal admission Silly games, pumpkin carving and spooky craft activities. Complete the terrifying trail (if you dare!) or get ghoulish by having your face painted. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/osterley-park SAT 25 OCT TO FRI 31 OCT DROP-IN PUMPKIN CARVING AT RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ Time: 10am-4pm Cost: £3 per pumpkin Pumpkins, templates, inspiration and tools provided. 01932 254198 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk SAT 25 OCT TO SUN 2 NOV AUTUMN HALF TERM ACTIVITIES AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey, KT8 9AU Time: 10am-4.30pm Cost: FREE with normal admission King George I needs your help! Interact with costumed interpreters and make new discoveries as you take on the challenge of being a royal physician. 0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk HALLOWEEN FUN AT HOBBLEDOWN Horton Ln, Epsom KT19 8PT Time: 9am-7pm Cost: FREE with admission A week of spooky and exciting Halloween fun at the multi-award winning Hobbledown including pretend slime in the dungeons of Merrymakers Maze, 70 metres of ghoulish underground passages, apple bobbing, ‘not so spooky’
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
35
what’s on
children dressed in ghost stories and falconry display. Time: 11am-3.30pm Cost: Normal WED 29 OCT TO THU 30 OCT Halloween costume. 0843 289 4979 THE BIG DRAW admission plus £2 per trail 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org. AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE www.hobbledown.com Terrible tales of naughty children uk/claremont-landscape-garden WIZARDS & WITCHES WEEK AT East Molesey KT8 9AU who came to sticky ends in BOCKETTS FARM Time: 10.30am and 1pm Edwardian Cautionary Tales, unfold HALF TERM AT THE LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Young St, Fetcham, KT22 9BS Cost: FREE with normal admission in the wild woods of Polesden. 39 Wellington Street, Time: 10am-5.30pm Cost: FREE A chance to create your own digital 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust. Covent Garden WC2E 7BB with normal admission story inspired by past residents of the org.u/polesden-lacey Children can let their imaginations Enjoy a packed programme of palace! Start with a pencil and paper HALF TERM HALLOWEEN FUN run wild as they are transported back fun and freaky activities including and then bring your creation to life AT HAM HOUSE in time at the historical and interactive a Witches Quiz Trail and Creepy on an ipad to make your very own Ham Street, Ham, TW10 7RS London Transport Museum. Filled Crafts. Daily activities include story. Time: 10am-5pm. Cost: Normal with buses, trains, and taxis they can 0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk pony rides, tractor rides, animal admission. take the wheel, try their hand as a handling and pig racing. The Ghostly garden trail with spooky WED 29 AND FRI 31 OCT tube conductor or bump around with CONFUSING CONCOCTIONS AT Animal Barns, the large heated prize (£2 per trail) and themed art the other passengers in the back, as indoor play barn, trampolines, go and craft activities. Dress up in a STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE they explore the vehicles of London’s 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, karting, young driver’s area and a Halloween outfit and enjoy the past and present jumping pillow will also be open. spooky fun. TW1 4ST Open Mon-Thu, Sat and Sun 01372 363764 020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust. For Ages: 5+ Time: 1pm Cost: £9 10am-6pm, Fri 11am-6pm www.bockettsfarm.co.uk org.uk/ham-house Cast a spell over Strawberry Hill and Cost: Adult £15 (tickets valid for 1 THE YUK! SHOW AT LONDON HALLOWEEN SPOOKFEST AT befuddle your friends by making year), Under 16 FREE WETLAND CENTRE LONDON MUSEUM OF STEAM powerful potions. Buses in Disguise Workshop Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes AND WATER Booking required. For Ages: 3-7 Time: 11am and 2pm SW13 9WT Green Dragon Lane, Brentford, 020 8744 1241 Join the museum on a time travelling www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk Times: 2pm every day Cost: FREE TW8 0EN adventure to Victorian London - can with normal admission. Time: 11am-4pm Cost: FREE with POINTY HATS AT you make it back to 2014 without This year’s Yuk Show theme is normal admission. Children in STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE anyone finding out you’re from the Bizarre Bodies. Delve deep into Halloween costume get FREE 268 Waldegrave Road, future? Maybe you’ll need some skeletons and sinews, guts and admission! Twickenham, TW1 4ST below a proof of your advertisement for the sort of disguise? Fun and interactive gizzard, organs and oddities. With Help discover the spooky secrets For Ages: under 5 Time: 11am storytelling sessions. October 2014 issue (No. and 74)plenty of Families TVE. fun demonstrations of of the historic engine houses and Cost: £6 Craft Activities audience participation, this show maybe meet a few of its past Turn yourself into a little witch or For Ages: 4-12 appeals to all ages. occupants! Enjoy family fun with wizard, make and decorate 0208 409 4400 CK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT plenty of Halloween craft activities, Time: 11.30am and 2pm your own magical pointy hat. www.wwt.org.uk a ride on the Ghost Train and a trip Build your own bus inspired by over Booking required. ates, telephone numbers and addresses. 150 years of public transport, then HALLOWEEN TRAIL through the creepy wood. 020 8744 1241 take it on a ride round the Museum AT POLESDEN LACEY 020 8568 4757 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk before taking it home. Great Bookham, near Dorking www.waterandsteam.org.uk THU 30 OCT need to be RH5 made at this stage. T: 01628 627586 020 7379 6433 6BD CRAFT CART AT OSTERLEY PARK MON 27 OCT TO FRI 31 OCT www.ltmuseum.co.uk THEeditor@familiestveast.co.uk Jersey Rd, Isleworth, TW7 4RB mendments will be charged for. 10% discount MAGICAL WOODLAND WEEK ATE: SPOOKY HALF TERM FUN POTTERY CAFÉ, RICHMOND Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE during October SQUIRES Avenue, GARDEN CENTRES 332 Richmond Road, East Drop in and get crafty with a 50 AllATSaints Maidenhead, t us by return either to amend or approve your Stoke Rd, Cobham KT11 3PU, Twickenham TW1 2DU Halloween theme. t. Berkshire, 6NA BurwoodSL6 Rd, Hersham KT12 4AR, For Ages: All Time: 9-6pm 020 8232 5050 Woodstock Lane North, Long Let little imaginations run wild www.nationaltrust.org.uk Ditton KT5 5HN, Halliford Rd, in the Magical Woodland at the HALF TERM HOLIDAY ACTIVITY Shepperton TW17 8SG, Sixth Cross AT THE CHERTSEY MUSEUM Pottery Café. Free marshmallows Rd, Twickenham TW2 5PA 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey for all little painters! Larah Au Pairs 01932 341704 020 8744 3000 Time: 10am-4pm KT16 8AT Get spooky with Squires creepy Au pairs, mother’s helps and couples with For Ages: 5-12 Times: 10am, www.pottery-cafe.com activities including painting a 11.30am, 1pm Cost: £3 per child FAMILY GHOST TOURS refs and police checked. Est 21 Years. glow in the dark skeleton to scare Get in the mood for Halloween by AT HAM HOUSE Personal, friendly service. away unwanted visitors or paint a making a 3D hanging bat. Ham Street, Ham, TW10 7RS Discounts for All areas. terracotta pumpkin tealight holder Booking required Time: 10am-5pm. Cost: £9.50 www.larahaupairs.co.uk Families readers with a FREE battery operated light. 01932 565764 Discover the ghostly goings on www.chertseymuseum.org Also FREE activities to enjoy. at Ham House and Garden. Find HALLOWEEN THUMBS UP IT’S www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk out about our ghost dog and the THURSDAY haunted step on the great stairs. TUE 28 OCT LITTLE SEEDLINGS GARDENING CLUB Kingston Town Centre Booking essential. For Ages: 2-11 Cost: FREE AT OSTERLEY PARK 0844 249 1895 www.nationaltrust. Activities for little ones throughout Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB org.uk/ham-house the town, including: storytelling, Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE with HALF TERM FAMILY ACTIVITIES AT face painting, craft activities and normal admission BROOKLAND’S MUSEUM entertainers. Get hands on in this edible garden Brooklands Road, Weybridge www.kingstonfirst.co.uk drop in session. KT13 0QN TORCHLIGHT TOUR 020 8232 5050 Time: 10am-5pm Cost: FREE with AT BROOKLAND’S MUSEUM www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterleynormal admission Brooklands Road, Weybridge park Popular car rides will be operating KT13 0QN HALF TERM HOLIDAY ACTIVITY from 11am to 1pm and 2-3.30pm Time: 6.30 pm Cost: Adult £25, AT THE CHERTSEY MUSEUM (subject to weather). Also, London Child £20. Charges include dinner. 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey Bus Museum will be operating bus Join a behind-the-scenes tour KT16 8AT rides around the local area. round the Museum after dark on For Ages: 8-15 Time: 11am 01932 857381 Maternity, Baby & Kids 0-6 Halloween.Your guide will show you Cost: £5.50 per child www.brooklandsmuseum.com the darker side of the Museum and HALLOWEEN HALF TERM ACTIVITIES Learn the traditional skill of Hampton unearth some of its eerie past by Saturday lacemaking. Booking required. AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE torchlight! 18 October 01932 565764 GARDEN 2.00 - 4.00 01932 857381 www.chertseymuseum.org Portsmouth Road, Esher Hampton www.brooklandsmuseum.com KT10 9JG WED 29 OCT Methodist THU 30 OCT TO FRI 31 OCT Time: Trail: 10am-5.30pm Activities: FSS AUTUMN PARTY Church MONSTROUS MASKS: A SPOOKY TOUR The Little Gym, 94 High St, 11am-1pm and from 4pm on Fri TW12 2JT AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 31 Oct Cost: Normal admission plus Hampton Hill TW12 1NY 268 Waldegrave Road, For Ages: 4mths-4yrs charges for trail and activities. Surbiton Twickenham, TW1 4ST Time: sessions 9am-12pm Cost: £9 Spooky-style Halloween trail, Saturday For Ages: 4-7 (5pm) and 8+ Fun sessions will include a 40 min pumpkin carving (bring your own 18 October Little Gym Class and a 30 min messy/ (6.30pm) Cost: £11 pumpkin) and Halloween craft 3.00 -5.00 crafty fun with The Imagination Den. Create your own monstrous masks workshops. On 31 Oct, dress For sale St Mark’s information before embarking on a terrifying There will be singing, stories and up, grab your lantern and join Church Hall and stall Dragon Drama tour led by Old Madge bubbles too. the ‘spooktacular’ lakeside walk KT6 4LS bookings visit the zombie witch brought back to 07763 922 321 at 4pm, with storytelling from www.mum2mummarket.co.uk life when a group of children, quite www.forsanityssake.com 4.30pm. FREE entry all week to
RTISEMENT PROOF
Thames Valley East
Buy and Sell
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October 2014
what’s on by accident, discovered the spell that would release her. Booking required. 020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk FRI 31 OCT TO SUN 2 NOV WIZARD WEEKEND AT WATERCRESS LINE Alresford, Hamphshire SO24 9JG Cost: Adult £17, Child £9 Family: £43 Come dressed as a witch, wizard or Halloween spook and find out about bats, owls and all things magical! With craft activities, face painting, Mr Wizard magic shows, witches Besom broom-making and daily falconry shows from the FalconHigh display team. All activities included in price as well as unlimited travel on the steam trains. 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk SAT 1 NOV FAMILY FUN AT ELMBRIDGE MUSEUM Church Street, Weybridge KT13 8DE
FIREWORKS PREVIEW
BATTERSEA PARK FIREWORKS DISPLAY SAT 8 NOV, Battersea Park Albert Bridge Rd, SW11 4NJ 020 8871 8677 www.wandsworth.gov.uk HAMPTON: CARLISLE SCHOOL FIREWORKS DISPLAY SAT 8 NOV, Broad Lane, Hampton TW12 3AJ www.carlisleinfantschool.co.uk
Time: 2-4.30pm Cost: £1.50 Creative family fun activities. 01932 843573 www.elmbridge.gov.uk FAMILY GHOST TOURS AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey, KT8 9AU For Ages: 8+ Time: 6.30pm and 7.30pm Cost: Adult £14, Child £7 (8-14) Join the State Apartment Warders for an early evening walking tour to hear stories of ghostly apparitions and paranormal activity at Hampton Court Palace. 0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk GHOST TRAIN AT KEMPTON STEAM RAILWAY Snakey Lane,Feltham TW13 6XH Time: 5-7pm Cost: £5 for 2 people Take a ride on a ghost train, includes warm drink and biscuit. Booking required www.hamptonkemptonrailway.org.uk SUN 2 NOV STORY CAFE AT RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ Time: 3pm Cost: £4 (£2 under 2s) Join author/illustrator Steve Antony
for a fun interactive storytelling and drawing event. 01932 254198 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk EVERY WED IN NOV FREE ENTRY TO PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE Time: 10.30am-4pm Cost: FREE Enjoy free entry to Painshill Park every Wednesday in November. Come and see the beautiful autumn colour in the landscape garden. 01932 868 113 www.painshill.co.uk
MORDEN PARK FIREWORKS SAT 1 NOV, London Rd, Merton SM4 5QX 020 8545 3667 www.merton.gov.uk PETERSHAM AND HAM FAMILY BONFIRE NIGHT PARTY SAT 1 NOV, Douglas House Meadow, Petersham TW10 7AH www.pandh.org.uk
RICHMOND FAMILY FIREWORKS SUN 2 NOV, The Athletics Ground, Twickenham Rd, Richmond TW9 2SF 0208 940 0397 to book tickets. www.the-raa.co.uk SHEPPERTON FAMILY FUN AND FIREWORKS NIGHT FRI 7 NOV, Saxon Primary School, Briar Rd, Shepperton TW17 0JB 01932 563 035
NEARLY NEW SALES MUM2MUM www.mum2mummarket.co.uk HAMPTON SAT 18 OCT 2-4PM Hampton Methodist Church, Percy Rd, TW12 3JT SURBITON SAT 18 OCT 3-5PM St Mark’s Church Hall, St Mark’s Hill, KT6 4LS
NCT www.nct.org.uk CHERTSEY SAT 18 OCT 10.30AM-12PM Chertsey Hall, Heriot Road, KT16 9DR EGHAM SAT 11 OCT 10.30AM-12PM Egham Leisure Centre, Vicarage Rd, TW20 8NL WALTON SAT 8 NOV 10.30AM-12.30PM Ashley CE School, Ashley Rd, KT12 1HX OTHER THAMES DITTON CRUK CHILDREN’S CLOTHES SALE SAT 4 OCT 1.30-3.30PM Esher College, Weston Green Rd, KT7 0JB www.crukgoodasnewsale.org.uk ADDLESTONE CHERISHED NEARLY NEW SALE SAT 11 OCT 10.30AM-12PM Addlestone Community Centre, Garfield Rd, KT15 2NJ cherishednearlynew@hotmail. co.uk
WEYBRIDGE: CLEVES FIREWORKS WED 5 NOV, Cleves School, Oatlands Ave, Weybridge KT13 9TS www.clevesfireworks.co.uk WIMBLEDON PARK FIREWORKS WED 5 NOV, Wimbledon Park Rd, SW18 5NR 020 8545 3667 www.merton.gov.uk
For lots more displays and more information, visit www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
Let your kids drive in London. Now they can drive a Tube train, climb in a bus cab and lose themselves in our exploration zone. Better still, kids go free at London Transport Museum, Covent Garden.
October 2014
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LOCAL THEATRE
Putting Theatre on your Weekly Agenda!
THEATRE GUIDE
By Linda Stone, Editor
Going to the theatre needn’t be an expensive treat. Local theatres such as Watermans in Brentord give us access to a splendid range of original children’s productions, at such reasonable prices (£6.50 per ticket for the majority of shows), that it’s possible to make going to the theatre a regular thing to do with the kids. The children’s programme at Watermans really encourages children to use their imaginations and engage with the unexpected, mixing popular classics with more experimental productions. Many shows are accompanied by art and craft workshops, so families can really make an afternoon of it. This autumn, Watermans is offering a different show every Sunday. Highlights include shadow puppetry in Once Upon a Snowflake (5 October) for ages 3+, and a dazzling interactive dance show for young children, Shiny (19 October) for ages 18mths to 5yrs, part of the renowned, national Dance Umbrella Festival. During October half term, Little Frankenstein, a gentle horror show for little horrors, will play on Sunday, 26 October,
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with a Make Your Own Monster Workshop accompanying it. Plan a week-day half term treat on Wednesday, 29 or Thursday 30 October, with Hey Presto! a show about friendship and adventure, brought to life with songs and a little mischief. A Family Magic Workshop will run after the show on both days. Rounding off half term on Sunday, 2 November is a witty, musical and alternative take on the traditional tale in Jack and
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
the Beanstalk Café for ages 3 to 7. Looking forward, you’ll be excited to hear that Watermans Christmas Show will be The Night Before Christmas, running from 11 to 23 December. Make that diary date now! Remember too that Watermans also runs young people’s drama workshops for children ages 9+ and Parkour and Freerunning classes for children ages 7+. For those who are not in the know, Parkour is the urban movement discipline of getting from point A to B in the quickest way. Perfect for kids who want to be a bit ‘street!’ Classes include a mixture of indoors and outdoors activities, and running, climbing, rolling and jumping over obstacles! Watermans also offers Parent and Baby Cinema Screenings every Wednesday morning and once a month on Sundays. For further information, see listings on page 39 and visit www.watermans.org.uk Book your autumn and half term show tickets before 25 October and mention Families Upon Thames for £1 off your tickets.
POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB Booking info: 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT 24 SEP TO 12 OCT Michael Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure comes to life in this entrancing puppetry production. For Ages: 3-7 GRANDAD, ME… AND TEDDY TOO 8 OCT TO 8 FEB A heart-warming story that celebrates the special role grandparents play in young children’s lives. With playful humour and original music, this charmingly-observed show is a magical family treat for all generations. For Ages: 2-5 FLAT STANLEY 16 OCT TO 1 NOV A wacky tale, packed with infectious songs. In the Lambchop household the world is sunny side up. That is until a notice board flattens Stanley to four feet tall, a foot wide and half an inch thick. For Ages: 5-10 THE SNOW-SPERTS SEARCH FOR SNOW 31 OCT TO 19 DEC Join the Snow-sperts on their quest to find snow through singing, sliding and stories. For Ages: 2-5 ANGEL 6 NOV TO 8 NOV When Bill, a young girl, returns Miriam’s shopping bag, they strike up an unexpected friendship. A funny, heart-warming story about growing up and growing old. For Ages: 10+ RIVERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE Manor Rd, Walton KT12 2NZ Box Office: 01932 253354 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk JUST SO STORIES SAT 25 OCT Using live music, puppetry and just a little bit of magic, Apollo Theatre Company tackles Rudyard Kipling’s best beloved tales that take us on a journey back to where it all began. For Ages: 4+
October 2014
THE ROSE THEATRE 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL Box Office: 08444 821 556 www.rosetheatrekingston.org DINOSAUR ZOO MON 27 TO TUE 28 OCT Dinosaur Zoo brings awesome prehistoric creatures to the stage as you’ve never seen them before! From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, observe and interact with extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative and hilarious live show. WATERMANS 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS Box Office: 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk ONCE UPON A SNOWFLAKE SUN 5 OCT A brilliant whirlwind of storytelling, shadow puppetry and song, with a winter sparkle and a unique opportunity to make up a story of your own! For Ages: 3+
LITTLE HOWARD’S BIG SHOW FOR KIDS SUN 12 OCT Little Howard is the world’s only live interactive animation. A great children’s show, with plenty for adults to laugh at too. For Ages: 6+ ART ‘n’ CRAFT FAMILY WORKSHOP 2pm and 4pm (Booking Required) SHINY SUN 19 OCT Join dancers from Turned On Its Head for their dazzling new show Shiny. From ordinary brown boxes comes an extraordinary array of colour, sound and texture to delight and engage. Watch and play as all that glitters unfolds before your very eyes. For Ages: 18mths–5yrs LITTLE FRANKENSTEIN HALF TERM TREAT SUN 26 OCT A gentle horror for little horrors and a treat not to be missed! Little Frankenstein will tickle the imagination of everyone from 5 to 105 years old. For Ages: 5+
Sundays & Half Term Shiny by Dance Umbrella
21 Nov - 14 Feb
ART ‘n’ CRAFT FAMILY MONSTER WORKSHOP 4.15pm (Booking Required) HEY PRESTO! HALF TERM TREAT WED 29 TO THU 30 OCT A heart-warming tale of aspiration, friendship and adventure. With a little bit of mischief and some catchy songs, this is the perfect family treat for everyone. For Ages: 3+ ART ‘n’ CRAFT FAMILY MAGIC WORKSHOP at 4pm each day (Booking Required)
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK CAFE SUN 2 NOV A nourishing bean-feast of stories in the Beanstalk Cafe, including The Old Woman in a Vinegar Bottle, and a sideways look at Jack and the Beanstalk - a visually witty, musical and comical confection. Watch and giggle as two full-grown adults play with their food and learn how many beans make five, using shadows, puppets and live music. For Ages: 3-7 ART ‘n’ CRAFT FAMILY WORKSHOP 2pm and 4pm (Booking Required) MISUNDERSTOOD MONSTERS SUN 9 NOV Saint Georgie, a professional monster catcher and his faithful sidekick, Squeezy, are on their most dangerous mission yet. When earth is threatened by tiny Scoodlefug aliens, Georgie is forced to question who the real bad guys are and may just need the audience to come to the rescue! For Ages: 4-9
Polka Theatre presents
A swashbuckling adventure for the whole family
Mention
Families Upon Thames
By JM Barrie Adapted by Peter Glanville Music by Martin Ward
and get £1 off your tickets *offer ends 25 Oct
Theatre for Children on your Doorstep Capture your child’s imagination with theatre just for them. At Watermans, there’s a different production every Sunday and at half term. We are just opposite Kew Gardens in Brentford.
Tickets: 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com
For ages 3-8 years. Tickets: £6.50 Visit www.watermans.org.uk
240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB Presented by arrangement with Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity and Samuel French Limited
October 2014
www.familiesuponthames.co.uk
Watermans_Ad_130x87_final.indd 1
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Big confidence starts small Its amazing how much the little ones can do! At The Little Gym®, we take a non-competitive, progressive approach to early learning and motor skill development through gymnastic movements. Children aged as little as 4 months right up to 12 years, learn at an age appropriate pace, building upon past achievements as they advance week to week and semester to semester. Take the first step, and enroll your child today. And see how their confidence grows step by baby step.
Book your Introductory Visit NOW! Call us on 020 8977 0099
The Little Gym Hampton & Teddington • 94 - 102 High Street Hampton Hill TW12 1NY • 020 8977 0099 hampton_teddington@thelittlegym.eu • www.thelittlegym.co.uk/hamptonteddington
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Families upon Thames is designed by Sarah Harmer and printed by Warners, in Lincolnshire. Copyright, Families upon Thames magazine 2014. 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 liabilty for loss or damage. Families upon Thames 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 liscense. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.