Families NW London November/December 21 Digital by Families Magazine

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IN THIS ISSUE Seasonal Celebrations! Pantos and Christmas shows; Where’s Santa; Ice-skating Familiesonline.co.uk

November/December 2021

Sat 11 - Tues 28 Dec 2021 Harrow Arts Centre Box Office: 020 3773 7161 www.harrowarts.com

November/December 1

familiesonline.co.uk

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a full day out of festive family fun

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For full details, dates, prices and to book visit

willowsactivityfarm.com Willows Activity Farm, Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 0PF 2 November/December

(Programme subject to change).

St Albans J22 M25

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CONTENTS

In this issue

4 6 15 16 20 22

News Education Tween Clubs & Classes Directory Christmas Part 1 What’s on: Pantos & Shows, Ice-Skating, Where is santa 33 Ladder Challenge downloadable 34 Christmas Part 2

EDITOR:

Heather Waddington T: 01923 237 004 E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF LISTINGS AND FEATURES EDITOR:

Anna Blackshaw E: Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk WWW.FAMILIESNWLONDON.CO.UK

Where is Families North West London?

Competition winners from our July/August issue. Chantal Platt, Lili Phung, Jax Blunt, Karolina Holmes and Emily Adams who received an Orchard Toys Game Bundle. See recipients of a children’s wellbeing activity book and Readmio app.

Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west. You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know.

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NEWS

Birthday parties with Gymboree

Home from home with Chilly Powder

Celebrate your little one’s special day with us! At Gymboree Play & Music Watford no two children – or Gymboree Play & Music parties are exactly the same.

Do you prefer winter or summer in the Alps… or both?

Allow us to turn your child’s passion into an unforgettable birthday party guaranteed to be a celebration of fun. You let us know your child’s favourite games, songs and activities and we’ll create a custom-made party you can call your own. Guaranteed to be 100% fun with zero clean up! Choose from a wide range of parties including Play, Music and Art. We specialise in parties for ages 1-5 years. Level 1, Queens Car Park, Atria Watford Shopping Centre, WD17 2UB.

Francesca, Paul and their three children live in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people. Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer holidays for either families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities, with unrivalled in-house childcare facilities. For many returning guests Chilly Powder is considered a real home from home.

Call 01923 250 440 or email for more More about Chilly Powder HERE. information. WATFORD North West London Families Magazine Ad 180mmx85mm-2 PRINT.pdf 2 18/08/2021 11:42

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FIND YOUR INNER NINJA at the supervised activity and fitness venue with obstacles and inflatable Booking and info at: ninjawarrioruk.co.uk/watford 4 November/December

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Brave Girls’ Book Club 10 boxes available

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Storytime magazine subscription

Silverstone Lap of Lights Experience

10 annual subscriptions available

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November/December 5

EDUCATION

How Tom Daley has shown the nation a few things other than diving…the neuro of knitting! by Usha Patel – Neurocognitive therapist at Raviv Practice London This summer, we were all glued to our TV sets watching the Tokyo 2021 Olympics and nothing was more amusing than seeing Olympic Gold Medalist Tom Daley’s knitting a pouch for his pending medal. So charming – we all went “ahhhh!”. I couldn’t help wanting to learn more about Tom. Digging around on the internet, I discovered that his education includes a grade A in Mathematics at A-Level. It did not surprise me one little bit. Those dives Tom does require precision, and a mathematical brain helps. So what is the link between knitting and being brilliant at maths? The magic word is ‘working memory’ which is ‘active memory’ – it is what we need to hold pieces of information while thinking and doing – especially learning multi steps procedures. We need good working memory for various tasks: reading comprehension, mental maths, remembering a list of instructions, following a recipe and even knitting!

6 November/December

These are but a few examples of the things we do with good working memory. Basically, it is used for any activity where we need to both think and remember at the same time to perform the activity successfully. If you knit, you need to both remember and follow what you are doing now, as well as remember when the sequence changes. The more complex the knitting task, the more working memory is used. Why is this important to your children? Working memory is a critical cognitive task. Without a strong working memory, children have poor attention, poor impulse control, are easily distracted, appear immature and can not keep to any task without constant reminders. Working memory has its most significant development spurt from ages four to sixteen, reaching its peak at age 29. After age twentynine, it declines. The more you practise doing things that require you to remember and think simultaneously, such as mental arithmetic, recalling what you read (or see on the telly), and

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EDUCATION

I am all for knitting and yippee to Tom for bringing it to the attention of the entire British Nation! But, while you and your child might not fancy knitting (though I strongly If you want to do a quick free working memory check, click here. recommend you give it a go – you might love it!), there are plenty of other activities that can help Getting back to knitting support these complex neuroKnitting is a brilliant skill; aside from working memory, it also helps development skills. with finger and hand dexterity and There are lots of great beginner developing: guide and videos to launch your • pincer & tripod grip - needed for knitting skill – here is just one to get you started. writing • hand grasp - needed for writing Raviv Practice London helps those stamina with fine motor problems as well • hand/eye coordination - for tidy as working memory problems. For handwriting more information, click here and • finger strength and fine motor book a free consultation or call control 0203 887 0486. • crossing the middle line • motor planning. following step by step instructions correctly, the more you can improve your working memory.

Bishop Winnington-Ingram CofE Primary School

Looking for a place in a local welcoming School? Look no further! We are a small school that recognises the potential of every child. We are passionate about our local community and embedding our Christian values.  Before and After School Facilities  Great teachers and support staff  Good Ofsted report

For more information call 01895 633 520 www.bwicofe.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

November/December 7

EDUCATION

Finding the right tutor for your child By Kate Hilpern Here’s some ideas of where to start. Word of mouth. Asking around is the most effective and popular way to source good tutors. Parents whose children have just done the relevant exam, if that’s what you’re preparing for, are often the best source. Your child’s school. Talk to your child’s teachers. They may be happy to help out a little outside school or know of other people who tutor. Tutor agencies. While you are not getting a tutor recommended to you by someone you know, you can pick the one who seems most compatible and switch if it doesn’t work out. Website agencies. Parents can interview or chat with as many potential tutors as they like before agreeing to start tutoring. Be aware, however, that there may be little support if things go wrong. What questions should you ask a prospective tutor? What is your educational background? Particularly in the subject they are teaching. How much tutoring experience do you have? Are they fully up to date with the current curriculum?

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How will you tell if you’re suited to tutoring my child? Do they adapt to children who might be very shy or boisterous? What are your tutoring methods? Is the work all done in the session? Will there be additional homework? What is your success rate? If they tutor for specific exams, do they achieve consistently good results? What hours are you available and where do you tutor? How long do you expect the tutoring to last? Do they teach fixed blocks or until everyone agrees the child is ready to ‘go solo?’ What are your fees? Any additional costs? Terms and conditions? Are materials and textbooks included? What happens if either of you have to cancel a session? Can you provide references and DBS records? Kate Hilpern is from The Good Schools Guide, the leading impartial source of information on schools in the UK, helping parents with every aspect of choosing the best education for their children. Familiesonline.co.uk

2 10/06/2021 EDUCATION

A77596_Reddiford School_General Advert_FV.pdf

REDDIFORD SCHOOL Long Established Reputation for Academic Excellence Limited places available in our Early Years & Certain Year Groups Hujjat Primary School Where education is more than what you know, it’s who you can become... C

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For Reception 2022 Admission

An independent day school for boys and girls aged 2 years 9 months to 11

For further details, please visit our website.

4th IN THE TOP 100 INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS (Sunday Times 2019)

Hujjat Primary School is an inclusive Free School located in Harrow, providing a values based approach to learning, focusing on academic excellence, character development and well-being, inspired by Islamic values.

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Brookshill, Harrow Weald, HA3 6RR Telephone: 020 8189 9730 HujjatPrimary.org | @HujjatPrimary | office@HujjatPrimary.org

Lodge at

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Academically selective 100% excellence in all areas - Independent Schools Inspectorate Children prepared for Independent / Grammar Schools’ entrance exams Academic excellence in a warm and caring environment Outstanding staff / pupil ratio across all year groups

To visit the school, please contact:

The Admissions Secretary, Reddiford School, 38 Cecil Park, Pinner, Middx, HA5 5HH. Tel: 020 8866 0660 • Email: admissions@reddiford.org.uk

Established. 1913

www.reddiford.co.uk Registered Charity Number: 312641

Pre-school operated by Old Macdonalds Day Nursery, open 8am – 6pm for 2 – 5 year olds Anouska’s Lodge is an exciting new addition to the Anouska’s family. Situated within the grounds of The Grove, the lodge has access to a range of outdoor spaces including the adventure park, musical trail and forest school area, all of which enable us to create an outstanding and enriching learning environment. With only 16 places available at any one time, we do have limited availability so recommend booking early! Please note - fully funded free spaces are available for 3 - 5 year olds, subject to availability. To arrange a viewing or to enquire about availability, please call Anouska’s Lodge on 01923 296047 or email anouskas-lodge@ oldmacdonaldsdaynursery.co.uk.

01923 296047 • anouskas-lodge@oldmacdonaldsdaynursery.co.uk • The Grove, Chandlers Cross, Hertfordshire, WD3 4TG

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November/December 9

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EDUCATION

Encouraging your child to become an independent learner By Bradley Busch and Edward Watson As children get older and progress within the education system, how they manage their time and how efficiently and effectively they study independently becomes an ever-increasing premium skill. So, what does academic research tell us about how parents can help facilitate this? Let’s look at three different but related techniques. Improving self-reflection. The more self-aware learners are, the more likely they are to manage potential distractions. Self-monitoring is a skill that can be developed by encouraging children to ask themselves good questions, such as ‘how can I get better?’ and ‘where do I do my best work?’ Better time management. Left to their own devices, people tend to procrastinate. Some studies have found that seventy five per cent of students consider themselves procrastinators, with fifty per cent

procrastinating regularly and to a level that is considered problematic. Research suggests that most students are poor at estimating how long a task will take to complete, as they get distracted or face unexpected obstacles along the way. This is called ‘The Planning Fallacy.’ Find out more here. Introduce learners to effective goal setting. This must include flexibility, short and long-term goals and enough challenge to maintain motivation. READ MORE

Holiday clubs, Breakfast & After school club for children ages 3-11 years

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EDUCATION

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START YOUR RMS JOURNEY Register online at www.rmsforgirls.com before 3rd December 2021 Call the Admissions Department for further information about joining RMS for Girls.

RMS for Girls, Rickmansworth Park, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 4HF admissions@rmsforgirls.com | 01923 725354 | www.rmsforgirls.com | @rmsforgirls boarding and day school for girls aged 2 - 18

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November/December 11

EDUCATION

DIY Christmas gifts for teachers Fabulously creative and low-cost presents that will excite your kids and delight their teachers.

Make Christmas brownies in a jar

Create origami bookmarks

Make a homemade candle

Make scented soap

Bake a bird feeder

Paint a Sharpie mug

Plant a succulent mini pot

Make a rice heat bag

Create a tissue paper vase

12 November/December

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EDUCATION

What homework should my child get? By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble Here’s our rough guide. Reception. Formal homework is rarely set. However, children are likely to bring home first reading books. Listening to your child read is invaluable. Years 1 and 2. One or two literacy or numeracy tasks weekly. Children should spend no longer than thirty minutes on each task. Daily reading with your child is essential. Years 3 and 4. Most schools set two homework activities per week of up to forty five minutes each, typically, one literacy and one numeracy. Years 5 and 6. Two or three pieces of homework weekly totalling approximately two hours per week, in preparation for SATs and transition to secondary school. Top tips for homework support A quiet, designated homework area where everything they need is accessible. A regular study time. Avoid late in the day. Encourage regular breaks. Eliminate distractions. Ensure screens are off and out of reach. Start with the hardest work first. Then the rest of the work will feel easier! Praise work and effort to encourage a positive response to homework. Teach by example. Work at the same time in the same space, if possible. Accept help, when needed, from YouTube videos, websites like Khan Academy or even tutors. Familiesonline.co.uk

Lisa and Catherine are cofounders of EmParenting, which works with schools and parents to strengthen children’s core qualities like kindness and offers insights and tools to nurture their development and wellbeing.

Holland House School

An independent, non-denominational school in NW London, for boys and girls from 4 to 11 years.

Registration for 7+ Assessment (Taking place in the Spring Term) Private School Tours available Please contact the Registrar on 020 8958 6979 HHS encourages independence, individuality and creativity, whilst providing a robust, quality education. Our pupils are encouraged to aspire and achieve across the curriculum in a caring community which fast becomes, and remains, a family.

admissions@hollandhouse.org.uk

www.hollandhouse.org.uk November/December 13

EDUCATION

Things to know about class WhatsApp groups By Claire Winter Love them or loathe them school class WhatsApp groups make it incredibly easy and quick to communicate with a community with common interests. But, as with most things, there are pros and cons! Pros Messages from other parents act as a valuable reminder of the important that keyword will appear. things you were told in emails from your child’s school but have To respond to a specific message, forgotten. hold your finger on the screen over that message and click the Sub-groups are fabulous for backwards arrow. You’ll see the organising the dialogue and message you want to respond to mean you can easily be in touch appear in the chat box and you write with individual parents or groups your reply underneath. of parents with specific shared interests. Getting overwhelmed by different chats in different groups? Decide Cons which groups are important and politely leave the rest. Expect flurries of panicked, confused and last-minute threads! Don’t use your class group like Not everybody in the class group your personal social media will always check email or previous pages and post irrelevant videos, threads. If you are getting confused photographs, memes, conspiracy yourself, always go back to the theories and articles. Or ask for official school correspondence. medical advice! This type of usage can cause tension. Tips for using WhatsApp You can also mute notifications by To find information on a clicking the profile at the top and particularly topic quickly, press selecting mute if you don’t want to the three dots in the corner of your be constantly pinged all day. screen and click ‘search.’ Type in a keyword and messages that have 14 November/December

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TWEEN

Tween sleep habits By Chris Skeat

It’s just as hard for tweens to get a good night’s sleep, as it is for their parents! Pre-teen/teen experts at wearetwixt offer tips on healthy sleep habits for this age group. Children ages 10 to 12 years should get between nine hours fifteen minutes and nine hours forty five minutes of sleep a night (NHS). But, at puberty (on average, between 10-12 for girls and 12-16 for boys), children’s natural sleep patterns may start shifting. Sleep is essential for forming and maintaining pathways in the brain that facilitate learning and create new memories but research shows we’re now having two hours less sleep a night than in the 1960s. A key reason? The blue light from digital screens suppresses the body’s sleep hormone, melatonin, which helps us drift off. Banish the blue-light

bed the first week, building to sixty or ninety minutes. How can bedtime routines and bedroom set ups also improve tween sleep? READ MORE

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According to a BBC survey, fifty seven per cent of the UK’s children sleep with their mobile phones by their bed and forty two percent of children always keep their phones with them, never turning them off. But a pre-bedtime screen time cutoff and no access to technology in the bedroom is crucial for a good night’s sleep. Switch off before bedtime Fifteen to twenty minutes before Familiesonline.co.uk

November/December 15

CLUBS & CLASSES

Local Clubs & Classes Directory ACTIVITY CENTRES

Ninja Warrior Watford (WD25) Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Park is a supervised activity and fitness venue inspired by ITV’s hit programme Ninja Warrior UK! A great place for supervised family activities and for keeping fit. No charge for spectators to come and watch your Ninjas from our Café area and treat yourself to our full range of hot and cold food plus a wide selection of drinks!

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/ EDUCATION SUPPORT Academic Tuition from Little Big Leaders (HA8 & WD23) in Maths/English or Phonics & Writing for 3.5 to 11 year olds at our Little Big Leaders Saturday School, Summer School and Winter School, in our 8th year of success. Tutors support and challenge pupils to improve their learning, and have a track record in enabling pupils to demonstrate progress in their mainstream setting and/or in 5+, 7+ and 11+ examinations. Childcare vouchers accepted. Free trial lessons. 020 3637 6266.

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Ace Tutors Maths online tuition in small groups on Zoom – no need to travel anywhere. Qualified teacher with 31yrs experience. Senior Examiner at A-Level. Affordable but effective help for your children. All abilities years 7 to 13. Free no-obligation trial lesson. Call, Text, WhatsApp Vijay Bhuchar 07737 853527. Code Ninjas Kids learn to code in a fun, safe, and inspiring learning environment, with a gamebased curriculum that they love. Parents love it too, because their kids make real progress and gain valuable skills while having a great time. Everyone wins at Code Ninjas! DiscoG Coding Classes and Camps Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses also available. Call Gerard on 07767 300940, info@ discogcodingacademy.com Free Readers (various) At Free Readers, your child’s academic success is our utmost priority. We help children of year groups and

individual needs, from ages 3 to 11. We offer enrichment or extra help in reading, Maths and English, homework and test preparation. Individual teaching and attention in small groups is our preferred way to help children. We encourage them as they learn how to learn, enabling them to reach their full potential. Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration. Usha Patel 07766 837 616 ushapatel.raviv@gmail.com Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. Call 07985 588 085. The Learning Wheel (Eastcote) Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. All levels from Reception to Year 11. Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course. Improve reading age by 1 year in 3 months of homebased work. The computer interventions is similar to having a tutor in your home with daily monitoring and feedback. Usha Patel, registered therapist, call 07766 837 616. Familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES

Local Clubs & Classes Directory ARTS AND CRAFTS Blank Canvas Art Club Online Fine Art classes for kids and adults from 6-106 teaching skills & techniques whilst encouraging imagination and finding your own style whatever your experience. Weekday Afterschool kids classes. Adults evening or daytime classes are suitable for beginners or refreshers. Contact Suzi at blankcanvasartclub@gmail. com Stitch Club (HA5) Dressmaking, Stitch Clubs, Parties and Workshops for children, young people and adults in Central Pinner. A safe space to bring your ideas to life. Email sam@stitch.club

DANCE Street Dance Academy (various) Teach children aged 5-18 yrs every weekend during school term time, with clubs in and around London, Hertfordshire and Surrey.

Street Dance Academy also teach Adult Street Dance Classes and Zumba Classes in Twickenham every Wednesday. 0800 0236 236 Elina Patrou Academy of Dance (formerly The Van Niekerk Academy) (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations. Online private ballet lessons available also. Call 07555861561.

FIRST AID MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs. Call Margaret 07814 191 395.

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

6-12 year olds confidence and social persona. I also offer ‘Emotional Intelligence’ courses to develop children’s self-awareness and social skills. Contact for further information, 07736 297029.

LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258. Phonics with Robot Reg (various) provide fun, high energy classes which teach early phonics skills to children aged 1-4 years. A Phonics with Robot Reg class is fun, varied and educational, and the best part is that children don’t even realise that they are learning.

Etiquette and Emotions I am a certified coach, offering ‘Modern Youth Etiquette’ workshops to elevate your ERS BEGINN FFER O L IA C SPE

S 4 W EEK FREE Classes held Every Thursday at 5.00pm

Preston Park Primary School, College Road, Wembley, HA9 8RJ

Every Saturday at 9.00am Harrow High School, Gayton Road, Harrow, HA1 2JG

Every Saturday at 2.00pm

For more information please contact us on

07739572487

patel.karate@icloud.com

St Helens School Green Lane, Northwood, HA6 1AF

www.tiskakarate-harrow.co.uk www.tiskakarate-nortwood.co.uk www.tiskakarate-wembley.co.uk

ALL OUR INSTRUCTORS HAVE ENHANCED DISCLOSURE AND BARRING CERTIFICATES

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Scan this code to starts a WhatsApp chat with us November/December 17

CLUBS & CLASSES

Local Clubs & Classes Directory MUSIC & MOVEMENT Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 yrs with small, age-related classes. Classes are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and core music skills. 020 8444 9435, email admin@ nlcolourstrings.co.uk

welcome, minimum age 4 yrs. 4 week free trial. Call 07739 572487, patel. karate@icloud.com. Watford Cycle Hub offering cycle repair services, maintenance courses and cycle training. They also accept your old bikes and recycle them, salvaging what they can; in turn the also sell affordable reconditioned bikes and bike parts. They also offer advice and information about cycling and bikes, including local cycle routes and maps, news about locally led rides and cycling opportunities.

to choose from, there is a place for everyone. A place to make dreams come true! Ages 4-18. Email: jen@ pstheatre.co.uk for more information.

Perform Weekly drama, dance and singing classes. Confidence building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing Monkey Music specially designed to boost Award-winning Monkey confidence, communication, Music, trusted by parents concentration and since 1992, introduces coordination. Classes at babies and young children Harrow, Pinner, Eastcote, aged 3 months to 4 years Northwood, Mill Hill, to music with a unique Watford, Stanmore and four-stage curriculum Ickenham. NEW classes specifically tailored to each SWIMMIMG coming to Kensal Rise, age group. Classes are run Bushey and Abbots 6 days a week, at venues Aqua Vie Langley. Visit www.perform. in Uxbridge, Eastcote, Aqua Vie are doing regular org.uk/try to book a FREE Northwood, Ickenham, after school weekly Tues, TRIAL class. 020 7255 9120, Harrow, Stanmore and Wed and Sunday Classes in enquiries@perform.org.uk Watford. 020 8427 6595. Bushey during term times. Spaces for New babies, KangaRooKids (various) SIGN LANGUAGE toddlers & Adults on Tues offers Drama, Music & and Wed. Learn mindful Movement Classes for Sing and Sign (Various) effortless swimming in a 0-11’s and Birthday Parties Fun classes combining the calm environment in warm for 1–7 year olds plus benefits of baby signing water. Use less effort, swim school holiday camps for with music to develop further and experience the 4-11 year olds. Our classes language, memory and joy of water. Email office@ are in Finchley Monday, attention skills. Babies aqua-vie.com Tel 01923 245 Tuesday, Wednesday and 6-30 months. Email info@ 773 mob 07814 987 153. Friday at Stephens House singandsign.co.uk & Gardens, N3 and St. Paul’s Church N3. Book SPORTS AND EXERCISE THEATRE AND one of our events here: PERFORMING ARTS Call Ruth, A.K.A KangaTISKA Karate Rooth, for a chat on 07710 Learn the fascinating art of P.S Theatre (WD18/HP5) 802 956 or email ruth@ Karate. Classes held weekly P.S Theatre is an kangarookidsgroup.co.uk in Harrow, Northwood independent, local drama and Wembley. Families school. With three stages 18 November/December

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Local Clubs & Classes Directory

YOGA & MASSAGE Kids Yoga with Yana (Watford) Yana is a qualified Kids Yoga teacher with a passion for empowering children to be the best version of themselves through fun yoga and mindfulness practice.

CLASSES FOR GROWNUPS

Woodcarving (Iver) A small group who would welcome new members. Drop in for a chat! Meet Monday Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: mornings 9.30am-12.30pm at Evreham Centre, Swallow drama, dance and Street, Iver. webb1959@ singing. Great for building btinternet.com confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by

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Contact Heather on 01923 237 004 to book the next issue.

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World of Children’s Yoga For children from 2-16 years old in Harrow, Watford, Northwood and surrounding areas. It’s all about building: Selfawareness; Empowerment; Resilience. Classes: Yoga in Education - Nurseries, Primary and Secondary Schools; Family Yoga and Mum and Daughter Yoga *Launching September 2021 - Girls Circles from puberty to teen*. For more information, contact Anjli on 07784 370034, anjli@ worldofchildrensyoga.com, www.facebook.com/ worldofchildrensyoga

Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA5, HA6) Performance based theatre school for children aged 3-18 with venues based in Hatch End and Northwood. Weekly classes in Musical Theatre, Ballet, Tap, Modern, LAMDA and Acrobatics.

having fun! (Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore and Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599.

PQA (Pauline Quirk Academy) (various) provides outstanding performing arts tuition for 4–18 year old’s. Each week students rotate through specialist sessions in Musical Theatre, Comedy and Drama and Film and TV taught by leading industry professionals. PQA is enrolling for Autumn! Book a free taster session at your local Academy.

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May/June 2021 familiesonline.c o.uk

November/December 19

CHRISTMAS

Great Christmas gifts for kids Check out our Families gift guide for ideas that will inspire and excite your child - many without lots of packaging!

Brave Girls’ Book Club subscription box

Storytime magazine subscription

Baked In Junior Baking Club subscription box

Diverse stories & powerful protagonists. Ages 7-12. £17 per month.

For story-loving kids! Ages 4-11. From £38.99.

Child-friendly recipes for mini-bakers. Ages 5-11. From £7.50 per month.

Young Driver driving lessons

Scamp & Dude superpower PJs

So Slime DIY Ice Cream Factory

SnapWatch

Waboba Moon Ball

Get behind the wheel for a memorable driving experience. Ages 4+.

Snaps around the wrist and stays. Interactive, easy to use. Ages 5-12. £9.99 + p&p. 20 November/December

PJs with Superpower Button! Boosts and comforts when most needed. From £28.

Pops and bounces to 100ft! Ages 5+.

Create three squishy slime ice creams - fluffy, icee and scented. Ages 6+. £20.

Wildflower kit

Three bamboo pots ready to plant. Six hundred seeds to attract bees! £20. Familiesonline.co.uk

CHRISTMAS

Christmas gift ideas for adults Eco-friendly, no-clutter and truly memory-making. Check out the Families guide to gift experiences for parents.

Silhouette sitting with Charles Burns Virtual sitting with the famous silhouettist of Royals/celebs. From £45.

WSET Level 1 Award in Wines

Give the gift of wine knowledge! Highlyregarded award, perfect for beginners.

Box 42 Uncharted Love Island box Tropical fun. Themed activities & Spotify playlist. From £31.99 per mth.

Books that Matter Silverstone driving Bloom & Wild book box experience letterbox flowers Thought-provoking and inspiring novel, plus feminist and bookish gifts. From £17 per mth.

Huge range of letterbox bouquets delivered monthly for your giftee to curate.

Get behind the wheel of a single-seater race car or top of the range supercar. From £189.

Epsom Bakehouse bread making

Flying lesson

Fender Play guitar lessons

Learn to bake, online classes. Baguettes to brioche. From £19.99.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Learn how to pilot an aircraft in two amazing thirty minute lessons.

Legendary guitar brand with online platform. Easy-to-follow lessons.

November/December 21

CHRISTMAS

Christmas audiobooks for the family Grab some blankets and mugs of hot chocolate and curl up to listen to these fabulous Christmas tales.

A Christmas Carol

Mog’s Christmas

A Season of Gifts

Enid Blyton’s Christmas Stories

A Boy Called Christmas

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Ages 6+ (2 hours & 44 minutes).

Ages 2+ (8 minutes).

Ages 9+ (3 hours & 50 minutes).

Ages 7+ (4 hours & 42 minutes).

Ages 9+ (4 hours & 26 minutes).

Ages 3+ (12 minutes).

Tumtum and Nutmeg’s Christmas Adventure

Mrs Claus and the Christmas Adventure

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Ages 3+ (1 hour & 26 minutes).

22 November/December

Ages 4+ (1 hour & 9 minutes).

Ages 8+ (1 hour & 26 minutes). Familiesonline.co.uk

CHRISTMAS

Keeping kids busy on Christmas Eve Daytime

Evening

Bake some Christmas goodies. Make gingerbread, shortbread cookies or cakes for everyone to enjoy. Make handmade decorations. Allow the kids to decorate their bedrooms with bunting or paper chains and make some lastminute items for the tree. Feed the birds. Hang edible treats or a feeder in the garden so birds can have a Christmas dinner too. Go ice-skating. Nothing more festive than visiting a local popup ice rink! Attend a nativity service. Local churches often welcome all to their yearly, special celebration.

Do a local Christmas light tour. Get some fresh air and check out the neighbourhood decorations. Snuggle up. Have a pizza dinner, watch a film or read a Christmas story. Go carol singing. Wrap up warm and treat neighbours to your angelic voices - keeping a safe distance, of course. Enjoy a Christmas Eve box. Great for relieving restlessness, if the budget allows. Source a board game or jigsaw from a charity shop and add new PJs, a Christmas decoration, mug, activity book and healthy snacks. Don’t forget to leave a snack out for Santa and his reindeers!

Make wildlife-friendly reindeer food! Make a great snack to help Santa’s reindeers keep going on Christmas Eve. It’s good for other wildlife too! Check out this great reindeer food recipe from the RSPCA. READ MORE

Familiesonline.co.uk

November/December 23

CHRISTMAS

Best family Christmas recipes For the best fun cooking and eating!

Kid-friendly fruit mince pies

Gingerbread men

Strawberry Santa pancakes

Snowman marshmallow pops

White Christmas crackles

Peanut butter cookie dough reindeers

Snowman pizza

Easy family Christmas nut roast

Cheese stars

24 November/December

Familiesonline.co.uk

What's On

Ice-Skating

Until Sun 16 Jan - Natural History Museum Ice Rink (SW3) Set against the backdrop of the Waterhouse building, the Ice Rink at the Natural History Museum is one of the most magical places to be this winter. Experience the thrill of skating surrounded by fairy lights nestled in frostcovered trees, with the smell of mulled wine in the air. Until Sun 9 Jan - Royal Pavilion Ice Rink (BN1) Celebrate a greener Christmas this year with the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink. Stunning, twinkly, romantic, child-friendly…and ice powered entirely by Green Energy, Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is open to the public this season until Jan 9th, 2022.

of celebration in the heart of London. The magnificent ice rink transforms the neoclassical courtyard into the essential winter destination, complete with a glorious 40ft Christmas tree, with specially curated decorations from Moët & Sat 13 Nov – Sun 9 Jan Chandon, providing perfect Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink picture moments. (KT8) Situated in the gardens of Thu 18 Nov – Sun 9 Jan Henry VIII’s historic home, this Queen’s House Ice Rink (SE10) beautiful, outdoor, open-air ice London’s most scenic ice rink rink offers you the chance to takes centre stage as it makes its glide across the ice under a star- return once again to the grounds covered sky while surrounded by of Royal Museums Greenwich. spectacular views of the historic At the Queen’s House ice rink, Tudor palace. Whether you’re visitors will have the opportunity looking for a memorable iceto skate in the surrounds of a skating experience or a place UNESCO World Heritage site. The to catch up with your loved only outdoor ice rink in South ones, you are assured magical London is open every day (apart memories that you will cherish from Christmas Day), sessions for years to come. will run from 10am-9pm on peak days and 11am-9pm off peak. Wed 17 Nov – Sun 16 Jan Skate At Somerset House With Thu 18 Nov – Sun 2 Jan – Moët & Chandon (WC2R) Skate at Bluewater (DA9) Skate at Somerset House returns, Returning to Bluewater is the with an exciting new partnership popular outdoor, undercover Ice this year with Moët & Chandon, Rink. Located outside The Village, promising a spectacular season the outdoor rink will sit under a Familiesonline.co.uk

clear roof, making it the perfect activity come rain or shine this festive season! Offering plenty of fun for guests of all ages, the Ice Rink will be running quiet sessions, as well as parent and toddler sessions for budding skaters. Penguin and seal skating aids will be available for little ones as well as bob skates to help guests stay steady on the ice. Fri 19 Nov – Mon 3 Jan – Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink (W2) The perfect place for a winter skate! Join us at the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink in the heart of London’s Hyde Park, set under a picturesque canopy of twinkly lights and built around the iconic Victorian bandstand. Sat 20 Nov – Fri 24 Dec – Willows Farm Village Santa Spectacular (AL4) As part of their Santa Spectacular, Willows Farm will have a Magical Ice Rink where you can Glide around the synthetic ice with ski boots available to fit all sizes.

November/December 25

What's On

Pantos & Family Shows

The Alban Arena 01727 844488 Fri 10 Dec – Mon 3 Jan Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs The fabulous Chizzy Akudolu is the Wicked Queen; social media sensation, Jonny Weldon is Muddles, and Ian Kirkby is back by huge popular demand, as Fri 10 Dec – Sun 2 Jan Baron Von Badapple! Jack and The Beanstalk Fe-fi-fo-fum, a giant of a panto Artsdepot your way comes! Follow Jack 020 8369 5454 and climb a beanstalk of gigantic proportions to cloudland in the Mon 6 Dec - Mon 3 Jan spectacular family pantomime The Tiger Who Came to Tea Jack and the Beanstalk. The purrfect Christmas treat for all the family! Join the teaCadogan Hall guzzling tiger in this delightful 020 7730 4500 family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and Tue 21 Dec clumsy chaos. Ages 3+ The Snowman + Paddington Bear’s First Concert Wed 15 - Fri 31 Dec The Mozart Symphony Breaking the Ice Orchestra returns for its annual Go on a journey into the snow performance of the timeless where music, shadows and classic. The film is shown on the projection will transport you to big screen with a live symphony a place where polar bears and orchestra. huskies really can be friends - the perfect arctic adventure for your Chickenshed pack this festive season! Ages 2-7. 020 8292 9222 The Beck Theatre 020 8561 8371 Wed 1 – Sun 5 Dec Cinderella The British Airways Cabin Crew Entertainment Society cordially invites you to their 50th Anniversary production of Cinderella. The Fairy Godmother of all pantomimes.

26 November/December

Wed 24 Nov – Sat 8 Jan EverAfter - A Mixed Up Fairytale! When Hansel and Gretel are left to fend for themselves in the Wild Woods, a series of events is set in motion, taking the two children on a journey through some of our best loved fairytales. Sat 4 – Wed 29 Dec Christmas Tales at Chickenshed With puppets, singing, dancing and some larger-than-life characters, Christmas Tales is

guaranteed to entertain the very youngest of audience (and grown-ups too!). Ages 0-7 years. Thu 9 – Wed 29 Dec Christmas Planet Play Christmas Planet Play will bring a magical world of sensory learning, wonder and exploration to the biggest and brightest stage at the Rayne Theatre. Ages 0-3. Compass Theatre 01895 673 0200 Thu 9 Dec – Sun 9 Jan Beauty and the Beast This high energy pantomime is packed with belly laughing jokes, well-known hit pop songs, slapstick comedy and plenty of audience participation! Fri 17 – Fri 24 Dec The Santa Show 2021 It’s Christmas Eve at the North Pole and the elves are making final preparations to Santa’s sleigh when disaster strikes! Santa’s computer has crashed and he needs your help to resolve the problem before Christmas gets cancelled. Harrow Arts Centre 0208 416 8989 Sat 11 – Tue 28 Dec Cinderella The entire family is invited to the ultimate ball as we proudly present “Cinderella”, the most magical pantomime of all. With heaps of audience participation, spectacular costumes, dazzling sets and enchanting special effects. Familiesonline.co.uk

Little Angel Theatre 020 7226 1787

What's On

Pantos & Family Shows

Sat 13 Nov – Sun 23 Jan There May Be a Castle On a frozen Christmas eve, Mouse Mallory and family are on their way to their grandpa’s house. But they never arrive. Instead, Mouse makes friends with a dinosaur, a glamorous, but hand shadows by Mr. Shadow. sarcastic horse, and a tone-deaf Ages 3+. minstrel who never stops singing! The Radlett Centre Ages 7-11. 01923 859291 Fri 19 Nov – Sun 30 Jan Thu 18 – Sat 20 Nov The Storm Whale Matilda Jr Benji Davies’ tender and heartThis story of a girl who dreams warming children’s stories of friendship, love and courage are of a better life and the children brought to life as one enchanting she inspires will have audiences rooting for the “revolting theatre show. Ages 4-8 years children” who are out to teach the grown-ups a lesson. The O2 Arena 0208 463 2000 Sat 4 – Fri 31 Dec Wed 22 Dec – Sun 2 Jan Disney Snow White On Ice presents Find Your Hero Another great Pantomime from Upstage Productions. See Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and stars from Moana, Sadler’s Wells Theatre Frozen, The Little Mermaid, London, EC1R 4TN Beauty and the Beast, and Tangled. Tue 7 Dec – Sun 30 Jan Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! Puppet Theatre Barge New Adventures 020 7249 6876 It’s a Nutcracker! like no other. With delectable sets Sat 4 & Sat 11 – Sun 12 Dec and costumes combined with Pinocchio dazzling choreography to create The world-famous puppet, a fresh interpretation of the Pinocchio, comes to life in paper form in the Magical Paper traditional Christmas favourite. Theatre’s new adaptation of this Sat 20 Nov – Sun 2 Jan well-known tale. Ages 5+. The Snowman This magical stage adaption Sat 18 Dec – Mon 3 Jan Mr Shadow’s Christmas Present of Raymond Briggs’ muchloved book has transported Be inspired to make your own Familiesonline.co.uk

a generation of children and their families into the wintery wonderland of a boy and a snowman that comes to life. Trestle Theatre 01727 850950 Sat 18 – Sun 19 Dec Robin Hood A fun-packed, music-filled family show with plenty of laughs. Whether you’re 6 or 106 you’ll love this exciting, comedy version of the legendary tale. Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560 Fri 26 Nov – Wed 22 Dec Scrunch This gorgeous, sensory show returns to delight babies and parents alike this festive season. Ages 6-18 months only. Watersmeet 01923 711 063 Thu 9 – Fri 31 Dec Cinderella Have a ball at the best loved panto of them all! Watford Palace Theatre 01923 225 671 Thu 2 Dec – Sun 2 Jan Dick Whittington and His Cat Join Dick Whittington and His Cat as they follow their dreams on an unforgettable journey to London and beyond! Expect fabulous costumes, stunning sets, live music, and non-stop laughs!

November/December 27

What's On

Where is Santa?

Northwood Christmas Craft Market (HA6) There will be lots of lovely Christmas crafts for sale and children can visit Father Christmas from 10am-1pm on Sat 11 Dec.

Kew Gardens (TW9) Enjoy Kew’s magical trail of lights complete with tunnels of light, colourful trees, and waterside reflections before saying hello to Father Christmas along the way! 17 Nov to 9 Jan.

Odds Farm Park (HP10) Festive Fairytales With Father Christmas from 1–24 Dec. Snuggle down with your loved ones and be transported to a magical world of merriment and yuletide wonder.

Ruislip Lido (HA4) Santa Specials on Sun 5, Sat 11, Sun 12 and Sat 18 Dec. Your adventure will carry you on an enchanting ride through the woods and around the Lido to Santa’s Grotto at Woody Bay Station.

Lapland (SL5) Lapland offers a great holiday experience. Visit the Enchanted Forest, the Toy Factory, Mother Christmas’ kitchen, the Elven Village, all before meeting Father Christmas himself!

Paradise Wildlife Park (EN10) Meet and have your photo taken with Santa every weekend from 27 Nov & every day from 18 Dec to 24 Dec.

Hillingdon Narrowboats Association (UB9) Santa is back and his elves are running his Santa Boat Trips. Boats depart every 30 minutes 10am to 4.30pm on the forst 3 weekends of December from The Boathouse, Summerhouse Lane, Harefield. Christmas Wonderland at Crews Hill (EN2) Take a magical ride through the Wonderland where you will see some familiar Christmas favourites, on route to Santa’s NEW magical Ice Kingdom. Hamleys (W1F) London’s biggest toy store will likely welcome back the big man in red again this year. Times and dates to be announced! Hard Rock Café (W1K) Join Father Christmas on 4 December for a rockin’ good breakfast that includes an unlimited buffet, donut wall, face painting, games, and a visit from Jolly St. Nick himself! 28 November/December

Lauderdale House (N6) Every year a magical Christmas grotto springs up in Lauderdale House as the man himself (Father Christmas, Santa Claus, Père Noël, Saint Nick) pays us a special seasonal visit. Kids of all ages can come along to meet him! Legoland (SL4) Enjoy your holiday with a bit of LEGO magic including lights, snow-dusted pine trees and seasonal festivities! Meet Father Christmas in his log cabin and receive a special LEGO gift. 27 November to 3 January. London Transport Museum (WC2E) From 4 Dec, meet Santa and help him fix his sleigh to keep delivering his presents! Museum of London (EC2Y) Take a stroll through a twinkling Victorian Walk at the Museum of London, transformed with festive decorations and the sound of carols in the distance, and discover Santa in his secret grotto. From 3–23 December.

Royal Albert Hall (SW7) Enjoy a story time session with Santa and his head elf Crumpet before taking home your own gift! From 2– 21 December. Willows Activity Farm (AL4) On selected dates between 20 Nov to 24 Dec you’re invited to meet Santa in his Spectacular Grotto, where every child receives a golden key to his Toy Shop - full of gifts for boys and girls to choose from! ZSL London Zoo (NW1) Find out what the zoo animals want for Christmas by taking the fun, family trail and then mail off their lists at Mrs. Claus’ post office! Book your special time to meet Santa in his magical grotto 4–5 and 11– 4 Dec. ZSL Whipsnade Zoo (LU6) On weekends and throughout the week leading up to Christmas, experience festive magic with Meet Santa at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. Your little ones can visit Father Christmas in his magical grotto and receive an early Christmas present!. Familiesonline.co.uk

2021 2– C E D 2 N 202 2 JA

Calling all young Scientists!

by Andrew Pollard

TICKETS FROM £11

Help us discover how babies & kids learn! We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at the Birkbeck Babylab in central London. Our prime location is easy to reach and we refund travel expenses. We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies

BOX OFFICE 01923 225671 | WATFORDPALACETHEATRE.CO.UK

Discover the Wonder of Christmas at Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts! From 3rd December 2021

020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Festive Adventures Are Closer Than You Think! Join the festive fun at Gulliver’s Milton Keynes this Christmas. Less than 1 hour away from London by Train! Bing and Flop will be making special appearances each day throughout the festive season too. Pre-book your theme park tickets early and enjoy a magical day out for less.

Book Early and Save at: Gulliverslandresort.co.uk

Santa Sleepovers and Themed Stay s

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Rides & Attractions · Santa Appearances · Winter Wonderland Cosy Family Rooms · Children’s Gifts · Festive Shows & More

BOOK ONLINE EARLY AND SAVE AT:

GULLIVERSLANDRESORT.CO.UK @Gulliversfun

Familiesonline.co.uk

GULLIVER’S LAND, MILTON KEYNES, MK15 0DT

November/December 29

What's On

listings for all the family

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

Thu 11 Nov - On-Line Parenting Course for Separated Parents (online) This course is recommended for parents who have separated or newly separated and would like to co-parent. Thu 11th Nov to Thu 16t Dec, 7-9pm. Call 020 8863 7319/07498881496 to register. Sat 13 Nov – Thu 23 Dec Christmas Fair (HP18) The spectacular fair at the front of the house at Waddesdon Manor is a Christmas shopping experience not to be missed. The fair will be set against the backdrop of the floodlit North Front of the Manor with its 20ft Christmas trees. Soak up the sights, smells and sounds of Christmas with our handselected stalls all housed in charming wooden chalets, surrounded by twinkling trees. Sun 14 Nov - Introduction to Gall Ink and Calligraphy (HA2) Using ancient techniques, learn the process of making ink from the Oak gall and create your very own historical, caligraphic initial. Gall Ink was a traditional, indelible ink used throughout history for important documents such as the Magna Carta, and Leonardo Da Vinci’s drawings of Adam. Discover the history of liturgical Headstone Manor and develop your own marvellous letterhead, worthy of the important land documents created here. Suitable for ages 5+ and their adults! This is a messy workshop so please wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty! At Headstone Manor Museum, 11am and 1.30pm. 30 November/December

Christmas Shopping in London

Tue 16 Nov - Toddler Takeover Day at Headstone Manor Museum (HA2) A day for Under 5’s to take over the running of Headstone Manor & Museum. Toddlers will have the chance to be Security Guards, Archaologists, Curators and more! From 11am-2.30pm. Tue 16 Nov - Tue 21 Dec - On Line Parenting Course for Separated Parents (Online) This course is recommended for parents who have separated or newly separated and would like to co parent. Both parents are not required to attend. In a safe, non judgemental arena this 6 week programme uses a parent focussed child centred approach.

Fri 19 – Sat 20 Nov - Evening with the Stars (SE10) Visit the Royal Observatory Greenwich after-hours and see the moon, planets and constellations through the 18-tonne Great Equatorial Telescope. Visitors will also enjoy a show at the Peter Harrison Planetarium during this celestial evening at the Royal Observatory. 5-9pm, ages 7+.

Sat 20 Nov - Parmiter’s Christmas Gift Fair (WD25) Christmas Gift Fair takes place on Saturday 20th November from 11am until 4pm at Parmiter’s School. There will be over 50 professional stalls with Christmas gifts for all ages ~ something for everyone. Food and drink available. Fri 19 Nov - The 2021 Disability parmitersfair@gmail.com Arts Festival (HA5) Sat 20 Nov - Cutty Sark Harrow Arts Centre are thrilled Birthday Weekend (SE10) to welcome back their annual Celebrate Cutty Sark’s birthday Disability Arts Festival. They will this year with an afternoon of sea be bringing you an even more shanties and more on board the joyful and exciting series of ship. Some events suitable for performances from integrated all, others recommended for an performing arts groups from older audience, so check website Harrow and beyond! Ages 4+. for further information. Familiesonline.co.uk

What's On Sat 20 Nov - Make, Do and Maintain (SE10) Ever wondered how to keep your silver shining or how to mount a picture? Head along to the National Maritime Museum and help build a community of makers and menders. This is a club for old and young to share current skills and discover new ones. 10.30am12.30pm at the Prince Phillip Maritime Collections Centre. Sat 20 Nov - LGBTQ+ Family Network (SE10) A safe space for local LGBTQ+ families to meet one another, get involved in creative activities for all ages and explore the stories within the collection! 10am-12pm at the National Maritime Museum. Prebooking essential. Tue 23 Nov - Tots take over! (E14) On 23 November, the Museum of London Docklands is letting tots take over the museum, and opening the museum galleries exclusively for you and your little ones. You’ll be able to go under the sea in the sensory space, enjoy interactive storytelling and take part in a range of special sessions for toddlers and babies. Under 5’s. Thu 25 Nov – Tue 4 Jan Winterfest 2021 (HA9) Wembley Park’s free winter lights trail, Winterfest, is returning for 2021. Celebrating togetherness, this year’s Christmas lights theme will be ‘Reunited in Light’, and will feature returning favourites (yes, we mean London’s largest LED tree) as well as brandnew commissions and new art installations. Familiesonline.co.uk

listings for all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

Fri 26 – Sun 28 Nov Christmas Fair at Knebworth (SG3) Enjoy a weekend packed with festive shopping at the Knebworth Christmas Fair on the 26th, 27th and 28th November in Knebworth Park and Barns. This Christmas event will bring gift ideas, presents for all ages and delicious festive food and drink. Fri 26 Nov – Sun 9 Jan – Christmas at Kenwood (NW3) As night falls on the exquisite gardens of Kenwood House this winter, the grounds come alive with a spectacular burst of Christmas magic and sparkle. Perched on the edge of Hampstead Heath, the tranquil landscaped gardens will become home to an illuminated trail that invites visitors to see the historical landscape in a new light, as they step into a dazzling winter wonderland. Sat 27 Nov – Trinity Orchestra Concert (HA1) Taking place at 7pm at St. Peter’s Church, Sumner Road, Harrow, the concert will feature the world famous Clarinettist, Colin Lawson, Director of the Royal College of Music, who lives in Harrow and his wife who plays Violin in the orchestra. Sat 27 Nov - Disappearing Lines: Ghost Ships Workshop (SE10) Build your own boat and take it home from this workshop delivered by professional wooden boatbuilder Gail McGarva. Participants will try their hand at two key processes in traditional wooden boat building: steam bending and copper-rivet fastening. They will

create their own miniature oak ribcage of a boat, a ghost ship symbolising the disappearing lines of the craft. At the National Maritime Museum from 10am4pm, for ages 8+. Sat 27 - Sun 28 Nov - Family Festival (E14) A weekend of fun for the whole family at the Museum of London Docklands. Go along and enjoy a whole host of exciting activities at the next family festival. Immerse yourself in the history of London, get creative and take part in hands-on workshops. This festival has been developed by a group of creatives who live local to the Docklands museum site. Sat 4 – Sun 5 Dec - Santa Dash (Virtual) Get those bells jingling and kick this holiday season off to a merry start by joining Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals Charity for their first EVER virtual Santa Dash! Step into Christmas and rock around the block wherever you are whether you choose to walk, run, scoot or sleigh ride! Whether you want to have a leisurely walk through a Winter Wonderland or travel the whole world in one night, any distance will bag you a place on Santa’s ‘Nice List’! Sat 4 – Sun 5 Dec - Family Fun Weekend: All that glitters (SE10) Go on board Cutty Sark for another weekend filled with exciting activities for all the family. Meet characters from Cutty Sark’s past, sing along with traditional sea shanties, and gild your very own Christmas decoration. November/December 31

What's On

listings for all the family

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

Christmas concert at the Foundling Museum, and hear Reinecke’s flute sonata as well as works by Bach and Poulenc. The concert will be followed by a Christmas-themed craft workshop for children.

Christmas crafts and workshops

Sat 4 – Sun 5 Dec - Christmas Weekend at Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) A special Christmas weekend opening. Go and find out a little about how Christmas was celebrated in the past and see some of the Museum’s historic buildings traditionally decorated for Christmas. There will be a small artisan Christmas market and the Museum’s shop will be full of handmade products made by local crafts people. Sat 4 – Sun 24 Dec - ‘12 Days of Headstone’ Family Trail (HA2) Can you help us find all of the decorations hidden around the Headstone Manor House so we can decorate our Christmas Tree? Fill in the sheet as you explore the site. Mon 6 Dec - Bach to Baby Christmas Family Concert (HA1) Magical music, festive frolics, sparkles and spices, oh my! Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and head along to this Bach to Baby concert at St John’s Church on Sheepcote Road. Doors open at 3.45pm. 32 November/December

Mon 6 Dec – Motivating Our Teens To Learn (Online) A workshop for all parents of teenagers. We will discuss how to support our Teens sustain the joy of learning in the face of any possible struggles and frustrations. Online session from 7-9pm, run by Hope Harrow. 02088637319.

Tue 21 Dec - Family Workshop: Ship’s Christmas Biscuits (WC1N) Get baking at the Foundling Museum. In this workshop create your own biscuit cutter for making Christmas ship’s biscuits. Inspired by ships biscuits, we will provide the dough for you to form, cut biscuits, then bake at the end of the workshop. Ages 5+.

Wed 22 Dec - Family Workshop: Ship’s Christmas Lanterns (WC1N) Light the way this Christmas by making your own lantern inspired by a ship’s Thu 9 Dec - Harefield Carols by lantern at the Foundling Museum. Join us for this workshop led by Candlelight (UB9) Emily Tracy to create a Christmas At this concert, you will enjoy lantern inspired by traditional a wonderful evening of carols, ship’s lanterns. Add to this year’s including those sung by the Christmas lights with your own respiratory patients from the beautiful designs. Ages 5+. patient’s choir, Singing For Breathing, and the Harefield Thu 6 – Sun 23 Jan - Winter Junior School Choir. All Light (HP18) donations will go towards Begin 2022 with sparkle and supporting Harefield Hospital. bright lights, as Waddesdon Manor extend their Winter Light Sun 12 Dec - Twinkling Tin programme into the new year Stars (HA2) Design your own tin-tastic decorations made from for you to enjoy. See the gardens recycled pie dishes at Headstone awash with colour and dazzling Manor and Museum. Suitable for light displays. Go an enchanted journey with a light art trail, ages 5+ and their grown ups! sequenced projections on the Sun 12 Dec - Christmas Family Manor’s façade and woodland lantern and boat trail, with Concert and Craft Workshop opportunities to enjoy winter (WC1N) Get into the festive food and drink. 2-9pm. spirit with this family-friendly Familiesonline.co.uk

The Ladder Challenge Help your child take on a difficult challenge – one step at a time! Download this activity and instructions to get started.

The Ladder Challenge Taking on a difficult challenge – one step at a time Instructions for use We face new challenges every day, and some can seem so big that we want to run in the opposite direction to avoid them! The best thing to do to make a challenge less scary is to break it down into steps so you can build up the confidence to tackle it. Look at the ladder on the next page to see how a big challenge can be broken down into simple steps. Now use the empty ladder and write the thing you find most challenging at the top. Next, think about what smaller steps you can take to reach your goal and write them on each step – ask your grownup to help if you like. Building up your confidence with each step will equip you with the positive mindset needed to tackle any challenge. The Ladder Challenge is an activity for children taken from The Happy Workbook: The Feel Good Activity Book by Imogen Harrison, published by Summersdale.

Final rehearsal the night before

Practise in front of your family

Sing song loudly on s way to sc the ho in the car ol Practise front of yoin grown-upur

Read alou on your owd n

DOWNLOAD FOR YOUR KIDS HERE!

Familiesonline.co.uk

November/December 33

CHRISTMAS

Make your own Christmas decorations Get the whole family in the mood for Christmas with a crafty decoration-making afternoon.

Lemon star biscuits

Button snowflake

DIY wrapping paper

Sugar charms

Christmas crackers

Glue string ball

Paper snowflake wreath

Paper Christmas tree decorations

Festive pine cone mouse

34 November/December

Familiesonline.co.uk

CHRISTMAS

Christmas song sing-along Tunes to get the whole family busting their lungs and up and dancing!

Santa Shark

Underneath the tree

Santa Claus Is Coming to Town

Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer

Last Christmas

Frosty the Snowman

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

All I Want for Christmas is You

Merry Christmas Everybody

Familiesonline.co.uk

November/December 35

CHRISTMAS

Christmas games for the family Some of the best fun at Christmas can be had playing games. Here’s our top seasonal picks.

Christmas song emoji guessing game

Christmas bingo

Outdoor Christmas scavenger hunt

Christmas charades

Christmas memory match

Christmas scent game

Candy cane fishing game

Who am I?

Pin the nose on the reindeer

36 November/December

Familiesonline.co.uk

CHRISTMAS

What can I recycle after Christmas? Christmas trees

Christmas cards

Cut, real Christmas trees: can be recycled and councils often have a specific collection for this. Living Christmas trees: can be replanted for use next year. Artificial Christmas trees: CANNOT be recycled. Reuse or give away.

Save to make into gift tags. Cut into pieces for kids’ projects. Or recycle BUT only AFTER cutting off any glitter, ribbons, foil, plastic and other unrecyclable elements.

MORE INFO

Wrapping paper

Decorations

Plastic based or containing foil or glitter: CANNOT be recycled.

Plastic, glitter or glass: CANNOT be recycled. Reuse or donate to charity shops if in good condition. Natural wreaths: compost if they have no glitter. Fairy lights: CAN be recycled at household waste recycling centres. MORE INFO

Other paper: scrunch into a ball. If it stays scrunched it can probably be recycled. Remove all sticky tape and decorations first. AND check with your council as some won’t take it. MORE INFO Familiesonline.co.uk

November/December 37