Families NW London Nov/Dec DIGITAL issue

Don’t be an energy VAMPIRE!

Get

kids

in

from PlanBee. It

energy this winter

DON’T BE AN ENERGY VAMPIRE!

Switch o the following electrical devices at the socket when you have finished using them:

Some appliances should not be turned

Put these mini posters above any light switches in your classroom or home

DON’T WASTE ENERGY!

Turn o the light when there is no one in the room.

BE ENERGY AWARE!

Turn o the light when there is no one in the room.

BE ENERGY AWARE!

Turn o the light when there is no one in the room.

DON’T WASTE ENERGY!

Turn o the light when there is no one in the room.

www.planbee.com

www.planbee.com

ENERGY SAVING IDEAS

www.planbee.com

Have a

DOWNLOAD FOR YOUR KIDS HERE

Lamp TelevisionComputer Games console Phone charger

.

TURN OFF your fridge, freezer or boiler, for example. If you are

ask an adult.

Turn o the lights when you are not in the room and switch o unused devices at the socket.

Don’t leave the water running when you are brushing your teeth or washing your hands.

Instead of immediately putting the heating on, try wearing a jumper and thick socks

Take a short shower instead of a bath - you’ll

as the

needed

Make a ‘no-cook’ meal once a week -

that

no energy to produce.

energy’ family

-

board

Reasons to teach black British history

By Ilhan Rayen Awed

The parents’ guide to primary school

By Gabrielle Nash

Black British history is British history and so the teaching of it in schools across the UK is imperative. Why? Only when this is the case can every student understand and acknowledge the contributions that Black Britons have made to this country.

READ MORE

Has your child just started school? Are you discovering all sorts of unfamiliar school practices and processes as well as strange new terminology and acronyms to understand and get used to? If so, our guide will help you get to grips with these.

READ MORE

Best board games for learning

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

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

Life on Earth memory and matching game Great for encouraging focussed attention. Ages 3+. £17.99

Spot it Junior!

Children learn to suppress their first impulse. Ages 4. £14.39

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

Melissa and Doug Suspend Junior

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

Sequence for Kids

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

Carcassone

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

Kingdomino

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

Rat-a-tat Cat

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

Choosing the right primary school

By Gabrielle Nash

If your child turns four this academic year, they’ll be starting Reception next September and now’s the time to make their primary school applications. Exciting times!

Your child’s primary school and its community becomes a large part of your family’s life, so feeling happy about the choice is very important. Depending on where you live you might have just one, two or maybe three schools to apply to. Or there may be numerous schools if you live in a city. So how do you go about knowing which will be a good fit for you and your child?

The catchment area

School catchment area is a key admission criterion for schools. This is generally be based on the furthest distance that a pupil was admitted to the school the previous year but boundaries can be extended or shrink, according to the variables of each intake year. For example, one year there may be a larger cohort of siblings or looked-after children taking priority or it may be a year with a high birth rate, so the map alone does not guarantee your top choice.

You can check each school’s catchment area through your local authority to establish whether you’re likely to fall within it. Think carefully before aiming for a school for which

you’re not in the catchment area. You don’t want to waste one of your choices.

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

READ MORE

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.

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Bishop Winnington-Ingram CofE Primary School

Local academic support service moves to new premises

Local academic support service and dyslexia assessor moves to new premises after almost 10 years in Eastcote… but don’t worry, they are still local!

For almost a decade The Learning Wheel specialist Maths and English tuition company has helped every child they support achieve their full potential by providing primary and secondary studentsr between the ages of 4 and 17 with individually tailored programmes. Recently, the centre has relocated from Eastcote to a bright new premises in Northwood Hills.

Darshani Nardani, director of the centre, is a qualified teacher with almost 20 years experience across all key stages. In addition, she is a qualified (level 7 from UCL) SpLD Dyslexia specialist teacher and assessor - a service that is run alongside the regular tuition options available at the centre. She is also registered with PATOSS and the British Dyslexia Association. Tuition takes place in a relaxed and nurturing learning environment where children are not scared to

make mistakes and are taught to discuss the learning process, to solve problems and build on strategies that can be used in the future.

Call 0208 868 7672 to book an assessment or enquire about their services HERE.

Gifts for teachers for under a tenner

Realised the kids break up soon and you haven’t chosen something for them to give as a gift? Here are some ideas that won’t break the budget.

The Body Shop

‘Create your Own’ gift pouch

Fill the pouch with a selection of Body Shop goodies. £3

‘Epic things to teach’ personalised notebook

Add photos and teacher’s name for personalisation. £4.99

Personalised ‘Thank you’ bracelet

Apple-shaped bracelet with personalised message. £1.99

Terrific Teacher glasses case

Stylish gift for a teacher who wears glasses. £2.99

Jamie Oliver’s DIY Christmas pudding gift jar

Just buy the ingredients and the kids can make this themselves.

Milk chocolate trophy

Award your teacher with a chocolate trophy. £10.

One4all gift card

Can be used with 130+ brands in store and online. £10

Personalised resin coaster

Handmade resin teacher coaster with a name of your choice. £8.99

Personalised mug

Remind them they’re the best teacher on the planet! £9.99

L Marsh Art Studio

World of Children’s Yoga

L Marsh Art Studio celebrate the making of art by tapping in to the creativity, interest and enthusiasm of our students and providing the space, time and guidance for it to happen.

Classes are taught from a purpose-built art studio, either in small groups or 1-2-1 private tuition.

Skills and techniques are taught according to each student’s individual readiness. 90-minute after-school art classes Monday, Wednesday, Thursday.

Term-in-a-Week Painting courses during school holidays. Private classes by arrangement. All ages from 7 years and upwards. All levels of experience.

Email Lisa Marsh for more information HERE, call 07500006099 or FB Messenger @art1stanmore.

Click HERE to follow L Marsh Art Studio on Facebook.

New Weekend Family Yoga, for:

Learning & Development: Yoga for a confident, stable, calm, wellrested, focused state of mind, ready to receive learning.

Family Yoga with Pre-Schoolers Family Yoga with Children (4-8 years)

Family Power Mornings to Boost Learning (8+ years)

Puberty & Change: Yoga: for strength, flexibility, selfawareness, positive self-image and self-worth, emotional regulation

Dads & Lads Yoga (11+ years) Mum & Daughter Yoga with Tweens (8-11years) Mum & Daughter Yoga with Teens (11-15 years)

Yoga for Women: Yoga for balance, love, strength, healing, wisdom. This is where Yoga for Women and all ages comes in and I share yoga designed for a woman’s body, women’s cycles, women’s lives.

Email Anjili HERE or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

CLUBS & CLASSES

What's On Family Ice Skating

Sat 22 Oct–Sat 25 Feb

Ice Rink Canary Wharf (E14)

Skate beneath Canary Wharf’s twinkling skyline and treat yourself to one of London’s most captivating winter experiences as Ice Rink Canary Wharf returns for 2022. This year promises to be the most exciting year yet, and there’s no chance of rain cancelling play with the magnificent roof, lit up by the shimmering lights of a giant mirror ball.

Sat 29 Oct–Sun 8 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 8 Jan 2023.

From Sun 30 Oct Skylight Tobacco Dock Rooftop Ice Rink (E1W)

Skylight Tobacco Dock will transform into a

Winter Wonderland, complete with Europe’s only rooftop ice rink! Ice skating sessions are 45 minutes long, booked on the day of your visit, based on a first come first serve. Skate rentals provided but skate skills will be all on you! Sunday’s are family day.

Fri 11 Nov–Sun 8 Jan Glide at Battersea Power Station (SW8) Are you ready to Eat, Skate, Celebrate, Repeat? Opening to the public on 11 Nov 2022 and set against a backdrop of one of the capital’s most iconic buildings, the ice rink at Battersea Power Station will be the most magnificent open-air ice rink in the city.

Skate At Somerset House With Moët & Chandon (WC2R) Skate at Somerset House with Moët & Chandon returns, promising a spectacular season of celebration in the heart of London. The magnificent ice rink, now with bigger skate space, transforms the neoclassical courtyard into the essential winter destination, complete with a glorious 40ft Christmas tree, with specially curated decorations from Moët & Chandon, providing perfect picture moments.

Wed 16 Nov–Sun 15 Jan

What's On Family Ice Skating

is surrounded by iconic architecture, with views of Greenwich Park and the glittering lights of Canary Wharf, providing a backdrop to the best views in London.

Fri 18 Nov – Mon 2 Jan Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Ice Rink (W2)

Thu 17 Nov–Sun 1 Jan

Skate at Bluewater (DA9)

Located outside The Village, the popular rink sits under a 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.

Thu 17 Nov – Sun 8

Jan

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink (KT8)

Wrap up warm, get together with your friends or family and take in the magnificent views of this beautiful Tudor palace as you glide around this stunning outdoor ice rink.

Thu 17 Nov – Sun 8

Jan

Queen’s House Ice Rink (SE10) Head along to the Queen’s House Ice Rink this winter, as their magical open-air ice rink takes centre stage once again in the beautiful grounds of Royal Museums Greenwich. Set in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the rink

Glide into the festive season on the UK’s largest open-air ice rink. Head along to the heart of London’s Hyde Park, set under a picturesque canopy of twinkly lights and built around the iconic Victorian bandstand.

Fri 18 Nov - Sun 8 Jan

The Ice Rink at Winter Village, Westfield London (W12)

Discover a magical winter wonderland where you can skate under the stars at the Ice Rink at Winter Village, Westfield London. It’s the most wonderful time of the year – and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than with a spot of skating at an atmospheric outdoor ice rink!

What's On Pantos & Family Shows

Artsdepot, N12 020 8369 5454

Mon 5 Dec-Mon 2 Jan

The Smeds and The Smoos

Soar into space with this exciting adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Music, laughs and interplanetary adventures, from Tall Stories. Ages 3+

Sun 11 Dec

Comedy Club 4 Kids: Christmas Cracker Expect the finest Christmas Cracker jokes, tinsel tomfoolery, festive funnies and even Santa doing stand-up! Starring Comedy Club 4 Kids’ regular host Tiernan Douieb hims-elf, and Howard Read of ‘Little Howard’ and CBBC fame. Ages 6+

The Beck Theatre, Hayes 020 8561 8371

Wed 30 Nov-Sun 4 Dec Aladdin

The multi-award winning British Airways Cabin Crew Entertainment Society would like to present their pantomime spectacular, Aladdin. This classic rags to riches tale is sure to delight audiences of all ages - so climb on board your magic carpet and be taken on a journey you’ll never forget.

Fri 9-Sat 31 Dec Cinderella

A hilarious family pantomime for all ages, with tons of slapstick comedy and stunning musical numbers. This year’s show comes with all the traditional pantomime ingredients as well as some added flair to bring it in to the modern era; it’s going to be a ball!

Cadogan Hall, London SW1X 020 7730 4500

Fri 2 Dec

Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Gala

An enchanting display of classical ballet choreography, talented musicians, ballerinas, exquisite Nutcracker tutus and sparkling tiaras makes this a truly magical evening. 6pm performance is familyfriendly and children of all ages are welcome. 8:30pm performance for ages 7+.

Thu 22 Dec

The Snowman™

The Mozart Symphony Orchestra returns for its annual performance of the timeless classic, The Snowman™, for which the film is shown on the big screen with a live symphony orchestra providing the soundtrack. 13-year-old Alice Mackenzie sings the aria made so famous by Aled Jones.

Chickenshed, N14 020 8292 9222

Sat 3–Fri 30 Dec

Christmas Tales at Chickenshed

We all need a huge sprinkling of magic this year, so make way for this colourful, energetic and vibrant show. Puppets, singing, dancing and some larger-than-life characters, Ages 0-7yrs

Jack and the Beanstalk Pantomime at Harrow Art Centre

What's On Pantos & Family Shows

Compass Theatre, UB10 01895 673 0200

Thu 1–Fri 30 Dec

Cinderella

A magical show full of laughter, song, audience participation and of course the regular panto penguin!

Fri 16-Sat 24 Dec

The Santa Show

Santa is back again at Compass in a one-act musical stage play for children ages 2+, with the opportunity to meet Santa and receive a small gift, after the show.

Harrow Arts Centre, HA5 0208 416 8989

Sat 10–Tue 27 Dec

Jack and the Beanstalk Pantomime

It’s the panto you’ve BEAN waiting for! Immersion Theatre are thrilled to return to Harrow Arts Centre with a GIANT amount of Fe-fi-fo-FUN as they proudly present Jack and the Beanstalk, a magical pantomime of epic proportions! Packed with comedy, music, audience participation, and all the ingredients audiences have come to love from the annual pantomime.

Puppet Theatre Barge, W9 020 7249 6876

Sat 26 Nov – Sun 29 Jan

Little Red Riding Hood

The much loved story

is injected with humour and new twists to the tale in this specially commissioned version by prize winning author Deborah Jones. Performed using marionettes and shadow puppets Ages 5+.

Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London, EC1R 4TN

Sat 19 Nov – Sat 31 Dec

The Snowman™ Featuring colourful sets and extravagant costumes, exuberant dancing and a heart-warming story. A magical stage adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Raymond Briggs.

Sat 24 – Sat 31 Dec

Let’s All Dance: The Nutcracker Stunning dancing, lavish costumes, much loved music and crystal clear story-telling for everyone.

Southbank Centre Royal Festival Hall, SE1 020 3879 9555

Wed 14 Dec-Sun 8 Jan

Hey Duggee: The Live Theatre Show

The smash hit CBeebies series will be brought to life through innovative puppetry and storytelling in this new live show featuring a dazzling light show and exciting projection and includes a four-week run at Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall.

Trestle Theatre, St Albans, AL4 01727 850950

Thu 29 Dec Alice in Winterland

Based on Lewis Carroll’s original story with new songs, lots of laughs and many many hats, this is Alice, with a difference! Ages 6+.

Watersmeet, WD3 01923 711 063

Fri 9 Dec – Sun 1 Jan Aladdin

Get ready to say ‘AHOY’ to CBeebies Swashbuckle star Joseph Elliot as the Evil Abanazaar and Love Island’s Amy Day who will be ‘coupling up’ with Watersmeet to play the Genie of the Ring in this year’s magical panto, Aladdin.

Watford Palace Theatre, Watford WD17 01923 225 671

Sat 3 – Sat 31 Dec

Beauty and The Beast

This Christmas, support local and be a part of the pantomime, starring Watford’s much-loved Dame, Terence Frisch. It’s unmissable festive fun for all the family (oh yes it is!), featuring catchy hit songs, award-winning sets and costumes, and non-stop laughter.

Where is Santa?What's On

LOCAL

Harlington Locomotive Society (UB3) The Annual Mince Pie Run on 11 Dec sees Father Christmas arriving to meet young visitors.

Hillingdon Narrowboats Association (UB9) Santa is back and his elves are running his Santa Boat Trips.

Kenwood House (NW3) Meet Father Christmas as he tells festive tales amidst the yuletide decorations on 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 & 18 Dec.

Ruislip Lido (HA4) Your adventure will start from Willow Lawn Station and carry you on an enchanting ride through the woods and around the Lido to Santa’s Grotto at Woody Bay Station. 4, 10, 11, 17 & 18 Dec

FURTHER AFIELD

Burston Garden Centre (AL2) Visit Santa in his magical Christmas grotto between 19 Nov–24 Dec. Quieter sessions in the mornings.

Chelsea Physic Garden (SW3) Father Christmas Storytelling on first 3 weekends in Dec. Children will receive a gift, and an opportunity to take a picture.

Christmas Wonderland at Crews Hill (EN2) Christmas Wonderland, train ride and Santa visit opens on 11 Nov.

Kew Gardens (TW9) Head to Kew for the most wonderful time of the year as the magical winter trail lights up the evening skies. Wed 16 Nov–Sun 8 Jan.

Knebworth House (SG1) Dine With Santa between 19 and 23 Dec. Enjoy a two course meal with Christmas crackers and a visit from Santa!

Lauderdale House (N6) Every year a magical Christmas grotto springs up in Lauderdale House. Kids can meet him on Sat 10 & Sun 11 Dec.

London Museum of Steam and Water (TW8) On 10, 11, 17 and 18 Dec, follow Santa’s snowy footprints to discover him inside the Museum. Pre book by Fri 18 Nov.

London Transport Museum (WC2E) Between 25 Nov–2 Jan, visit the Museum for special family activities including a wintery trail, card-making workshop, interactive Routemasterinspired sleigh and the chance to meet Santa and his elf in our magical winter wonderland.

Mead Open Farm (LU7) Explore the Magical Christmas Walkthrough on your way to meet Father Christmas, choose a toy from his Toy Shop and build your own bear in the Make a Bear Workshop! 2–24 Dec.

Paradise Wildlife Park (EN10) Meet and have your photo taken with Santa every weekend from 3 Dec & every day from 17 to 24 Dec.

Royal Albert Hall (SW7) Step inside a whimsical world where you’ll be greeted by Father Christmas and his merry Head Elf as they take families on a joyful journey in this charming Christmas storytime session featuring Chris Naylor-Ballesteros’ ‘Tiny Reindeer’, ending with each child taking home their own gift. 2–20 Dec.

Top Advent Calendar Picks

Eco Christmas gift guide

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

Nature Curious subscription boxes

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

Barekind bamboo socks

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

Kabode Alphabet children’s bedding

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

Play Kits subscription boxes

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

Bake at Home gingerbread people kit

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

DIY lip tint or cheek balm kit

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

Tartan wool blanket

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

Halo water bottle

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

Cashmere fingerless gloves

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

Get greener this Christmas

Christmas trees

Don’t use artificial trees – they aren’t recyclable and will end up in landfill.

Hire a Christmas tree from a garden centre or plant nursery. Buy a pot grown tree and plant it in the garden in January. Use it next year!

Recycle real trees. Check arrangements with your council.

Eco alternatives

Use reusable, fabric crackers. Wrap gifts with recycled paper or fabric.

Go for a real, fresh wreath made with seasonal, natural foliage.

Buy a reusable Advent Calendar. Fill with your own gifts. Make your own decorations.

Pot grown tree care

Christmas dinner

Plan meals in advance, taking account of visitors, so you don’t buy more food than you need. Seal and freeze all the leftovers that you can.

Give unused food away to friends, family or neighbours.

Eat less meat and try vegan versions of Christmas classics.

Christmas gifts

Consider second hand or refurbished items eg bikes, tech.

Try giving experiences such as theatre tickets or days out instead of gifts.

Buy reusable items like refillable water bottles and beeswax wraps.

Buy consumables like food and toiletries as gifts.

Christmas leftovers

Learn the difference between potted trees and container grown trees, which ones have the best chance of survival and how to care for them.

Four of Jamie’s tasty leftover recipes including turkey stew with leek & smoky bacon biscuit dumplings, bubble & squeak, smoky veggie chilli & hodgepodge pie.

Festive family city breaks

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

Durham

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

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

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

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

Exeter

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

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

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

Cardiff Fantastic Christmas festival with incredible shows at Cardiff Castle.

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

Kidderminster

Christmas treats to make with the kids

Christmas gingerbread people

Christmas pudding Malteser cake

Have some fun in the kitchen with a classic gingerbread recipe your kids will love to make. Decorate your people using dried fruits, nuts and coconut for a healthier treat that tastes fantastic. The kids will particularly enjoy making their little people truly personal.

This sneaky cake is a bit of a trickster! It looks like a Christmas pudding but is, in fact, a delicious chocolate cake covered in Maltesers. Kids will love tricking others with this cake and, of course, they will also love the taste of this chocolate extravaganza!

Christmas cookie houses

Gingerbread houses are a Christmas tradition but these little cookie houses are so much easier to assemble and just as fun.

Use different biscuits and decorative items to give each cookie house a unique, fun look. The kids can even make a small Christmas town of their own.

a

More Christmas gift ideas

Hot Wheels Car Plate by Munchy Play

My Self-Esteem Journal & My Worry Journal

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

Girls Support Girls

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

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

The Book for Badass Women

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

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

Christmas hacks for parents Keeping presents hidden

In the loft – assuming your child can’t access it or wouldn’t think to look there!

In the car boot – this is a winner if you can’t access it from the back seats.

Inside luggage – zip presents into a suitcase.

Another house – leaving with friends or family will thwart the most ardent snooper!

Laundry basket – kids are unlikely to go digging through dirty laundry so stash some wrapped presents at the bottom.

In the run up

Ignore the hype – don’t compare your family to every trend on social media. Love your lists – getting things down on paper definitely helps you stay sane.

Delegate – don’t do everything. Ask for help and get everyone involved.

Drop high stress rituals –families thrive on traditions but choose the ones most important to you.

Stick to routines - your child will find it reassuring. Avoid back to back socialising and travel – try to arrange some visits after Christmas.

Choosing and caring for your Christmas tree

Measure the height of your room before you choose a tree.

Nordmann Fir is a great choice as it does not drop its glossy dark needles and has a good shape.

Place in a stand with a well of water in the base.

Check daily and top up the water when the level drops.

Choose a cool place, away from radiators and fires.

Don’t let your tree dry out.

On the day

Not all at once - spread out gift-opening to keep Christmas morning manageable.

Turn present-giving into a game – everyone takes turns and must try to guess what it is before opening.

Avoid present chaos - wrap everyone’s Christmas gifts in different paper so you can recognise them.

Prioritise presence over presents – remember Christmas is really about time with your family.

Avoid overload – kids can get over stimulated so give them time to play quietly or rest.

Let’s go crackers!

Do you fling a box of whatever’s closest to hand at the supermarket in your trolley

note

so, this is for you!

other options next

Racing pigs in blankets

Joke, snap, hat & pullback racing pig + racetrack. £19.99

Make Your Own

DIY colour in cracker kit. £14.50

Nutcracker crackers

Joke, hat, snap & handpainted tree decoration. £19.99

Who

Giant popcorn cracker

Giant cracker & 6 salted

popcorn bags, hats and jokes.

Xylophone musical crackers

Hat,

joke &

Bowling

6

Recycled origami crackers

Everything needed to

shape.

Bingo crackers

Family friendly bingo game, paper hat & joke.