Families Upon Thames Issue 119 October 2017 by Families London-Kent Borders Magazine

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Issue 119 October 2017

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Ages 2 to 5 Teaches Early Years Foundation Stage. Curriculum and Montessori Method. For a prospectus or to visit, call Julia on 020 8335 0666 / 07939 838991 or email juliasmontessori@aol.com

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EARLY YEARS CARE

How to cope with toddler tantrums Even though you may want to lay next to your child and kick and scream alongside them, if you bite your tongue and remain authoritative rather than stressed, then your child will be more likely to calm quicker.

When your child is in the middle of a tantrum, it can be very hard to stop yourself from joining in! Every toddler will throw a tantrum at some stage of their life. But do not fear! There is a solution to the tantrum episodes and ways to prevent them from happening again.

Ignorance is bliss

You should respond to a tantrum, but not react. When a child is in a full-blown screaming tantrum, they have exploded with emotions and there is no way of dragging them back to reality... yet. Ride the tantrum wave and when they calm down (which they eventually always will) then you can talk. Nothing you say during the tantrum will help − if anything, it will make the situation worse.

Keep calm and breathe

Even though you may want to lay next to your child and kick and scream alongside them, if you bite your tongue and remain authoritative rather than stressed, then your child will be more likely to calm quicker. Patience is needed, as children often throw tantrums because they see that as effective communication and know no other ways to communicate. It takes time and practise until they realise it is not!

Distraction

A brilliant weapon in the parenting toolbox! Try and distract them before they descend into utter madness. Use humour to distract tricky situations, such

as silly songs, laughing or even tickles. Children have a pretty short attention span which proves useful when you need to distract!

Recognise the signs

The good ole saying ‘prevention is better than cure’ is apparent here. Although we can’t always predict what will cause a tantrum, we can try and avoid it a second time around, or be prepared for heightened emotions such as hunger and tiredness that can lead to a tantrum. Why not make a note of the cause of the tantrum and hopefully try and avoid it next time?

The ‘calm corner’

Admittedly you may want to sit in this corner yourself when you think it’s too much to handle, but it’s for the little ones! If your child is having a meltdown at home, create a quiet corner such as the bottom step of the stairs, or the corner of the hallway. Whilst they are there, don’t give them a lot of attention and make sure they don’t have access to their favourite toys, books or fun distractions − we don’t need them wanting to return to the calm corner!

Do not give into ‘I want it all’ style tantrums

One of the most common tantrums in the book. If your toddler is having a strop because you’re not allowing them to steal a toy off another toddler, or because of the chocolate you refused to give them, or even the toy they aren’t allowed to currently play with... do not give in! If you do, they catch on very quickly that throwing a tantrum means they get their own way, crafty little ones! It’s hard to stay strong, but it will be worth the investment in the future.

The limited words tantrum

There’s a lot of frustration with trying to communicate but only having a word bank of around 100 words. These tantrums can be helped with your assistance. Help your toddler explain and understand their feelings. Try to guess what they’re experiencing and ask them ‘are you sleepy?’ or ‘are you sad because that’s not your toy?’ This gives them a chance to think about their feelings and eventually express them in a different way.

Compromise

Tantrums in toddlers are often caused by a feeling of ‘no control’. Your toddler is desperate for a little control over their life, so try and keep the balance by giving them a choice within a choice. Instead of saying ‘you need to hold my hand when crossing roads’ say, ‘would you like to hold mummy/daddy’s hand or the pram when crossing the road?’ That way they think they’re getting a choice, but you’re still getting the desired outcome. Win-win!

Praise the good

Reinforce and praise good behaviour. Try making a star chart, and if they hit a target of stars in the week, give a reward. This helps your child realise there is a certain type of behaviour that leads to great results, hopefully teaching them to avoid tantrums as no stars are awarded to screaming toddlers!

Tantrums aren’t forever, but hopefully these tips will make them a little easier!

For more advice on tantrums, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk 4 Families Upon Thames

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FAMILY HEALTH and WELLBEING

Vaccinate against winter nasties

by Dr Sumi Soori

There are a number of winter illnesses that can be prevented by timely immunisation. Winter illnesses such as seasonal flu, meningitis, chickenpox and whooping cough are all contagious and can spread quickly. Getting vaccinated before winter allows you to minimise your risk of infection and that of infecting others.

Vaccines you should have before winter: ✿ Flu: Even if you had the flu vaccine last year, you will need another one this year. People are always at risk of getting flu because the strains are always changing. The vaccine can be administered in the form of injection for adults or nasal spray for young or high-risk children. Anyone aged 65 and over, pregnant women, children and adults with underlying health issues or weakened immune systems should be vaccinated yearly to avoid complications such as pneumonia (a lung infection). ✿ Meningitis: Meningitis remains a serious threat to children, teenagers and young adults, especially in the winter months. It is fatal in one in ten cases. There are a number of meningitis vaccinations available that provide protection against some of the infections that cause meningitis: ◗ Meningococcal B vaccine (a new vaccine provided on the NHS for infants, available privately for other children) ◗ 5-in-1 vaccine (includes protection against Haemophilus influenzae B, a bacteria that can cause meningitis) ◗ Pneumococcal vaccine ◗ MMR vaccine (Meningitis can occur as a

complication of measles, mumps or rubella) ◗ Men C vaccine (protects against Meningococcal C bacteria) ◗ Meningitis ACWY vaccine (protects against four bacteria types that can cause meningitis) ✿ Measles: This is the third most common vaccine-preventable cause of death among children throughout the world and is one of the most infectious diseases in humans. ✿ Whooping cough: This is a highly infectious bacterial infection, which can be very serious for babies under one year. It is important to have this vaccine in the third trimester of every pregnancy. ✿ Chickenpox: This vaccine is not part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule in the UK, but it is available privately. The vaccine prevents the likelihood of serious chickenpox and lessens the chance of scarring.

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BOOK REVIEW Feed your fussy eater’s imagination with these clever and humorous books which will inspire even the pickiest of children to start exploring the wonderful world of food. Good luck!

Books to inspire picky eaters

Monsters Don’t Eat Broccoli

by Barbara Jean Hicks and Sue Hendra In this stunning picture book the monsters insist that they don’t eat broccoli, despite the fact the tractors and rocket ships look EXACTLY like broccoli! Maybe vegetables aren’t so bad after all?

Bread and Jam for Frances

by Russell Hoban This lovely book tells the story of Frances who loves bread and jam so much she eats it at every single meal! At least that’s until she realises what else she’s missing... This charming tale will keep parents and kids entertained!

Oliver’s Vegetables

by Vivian French This book is aimed at parents with a picky eater at the dinner table! This story tells the tale of young Oliver who loves chips so much that he refuses to eat anything else! Well, until his grandfather plays a game with him where he must eat every vegetable he finds in the garden!

I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato

by Lauren Child Little Lola is a really picky eater; she won’t eat peas, carrots, mushrooms, eggs or sausages – and most definitely NOT tomatoes! Well, until her brother Charlie explains to her that actually peas are small green drops from Greenland and carrots are orange twiglets from Jupiter. This fun-filled book will keep your kids entertained and you never know... they may even start to eat their veg!

Green Eggs and Ham

Tea Time for Pirates

by Richard Dungworth Packed with fantastic rhymes and funny illustrations, this book is a perfect story for picky eaters. Telling the tale of how Captain Cutlass convinces his crew that sausages, carrots, mash and peas will make them big and strong!

I Do Not Eat the Colour Green

by Lynne Rickards This fun, engaging book is ideal for young fussy eaters. Showcasing the tale of Marlene McKean; this story is all about how little Marlene absolutely hates the colour green!

by Dr Seuss This fantastic story teaches little ones that you never know whether you like something or not until you’ve tried it! With Dr Seuss’ unique combination of funny rhymes and cool characters, this book will be a delightful read for both adults and children.

For more amazing books for your kids, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk 6 Families Upon Thames

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PARENTING

Top Ten Tips for Family Happiness By Andy Cope

When you ask parents what they want for their kids, what’s usually the most common reply? They want their children to be happy. Sometimes it’s hard to balance what’s best for your child with what makes them happy – but the two don’t have to be mutually exclusive. It is generally accepted that happier kids are more likely to turn into successful, accomplished adults.

How we behave in a moment of triumph and joy makes a huge difference in either building or undermining relationships.

So here are my top ten tips.

Praise your children for their effort rather than their ability. So, for example, if they get a good grade in maths don’t say ‘Genius, you are the next Einstein.’ Do say, ‘Brilliant! That shows what you can achieve with hard work.’

If you have small children, practise what Gretchen Rubin calls ‘gazing lovingly’. This means downing tools at the end of the evening and standing at your children’s bedroom door, watching them sleep. (Only with your own kids though, and there is an age limit of 10! After that, the general rule is that you NEVER go in your kids’ bedrooms, just in case!).

Read a bedtime story to your kids like it was the most exciting book in the world. And note, it is doubly important for sons to see their dads reading books.

How we behave in a moment of triumph and joy makes a huge difference in either building or undermining relationships. Broadly speaking, parents need to be ‘active

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constructive,’ which means celebrating success with genuine enthusiasm. I’m not suggesting an over the top punching of the air celebration for every smidgen of good news, but a raising of your levels of enthusiasm means you won’t miss out on so many glorious relationship building opportunities. The ‘active constructive’ reaction is completely brilliant on all sorts of levels. The message is they’re proud and you’re proud. Your active constructive response means they know you’re proud. Best of all, you’ve engineered it so you know they know you’re proud.

If you write a list of 10 things you really appreciate but take for granted, your family will almost certainly be on there. So stop taking them for granted!

Any family is only as happy as their least happy child. Rather than avoiding them, invest time with your children and be genuinely interested in what they’re up to. This is such an important point, I should probably have included it at number 1.

When you’re thinking of passing down your inheritance, be sure to remember that it’s not just a lump of cash and a bit of jewellery. You are passing down habits, knowledge, mind-sets and cognitive traits. Your positivity can set your child up for life!

Chatter away! A study by Hart and Risley suggested that by age four, children raised in poor families will have heard 32 million fewer words than children raised in professional families. To add to the woe, it’s not just quantity, it’s also the emotional tone. So please speak a lot and, where possible, couch your language in the 8:1 ratio of positive to negative. Say instead of “how was school?” why not upgrade to “what was the highlight of your day?”’ or “what was the funniest or most amazing thing you’ve done today?” Say it like you mean it and, of course, properly listen to the answer. You will be rewarded with an increased likelihood of a positive conversation. Turn off your electronic devices and spend more time with your real flesh and blood family. Happiness is a social thing.

Practise the four minute rule. This is a phrase that came from a guru friend of mine, Steve McDermott, and I love its simplicity. Basically, your emotions are contagious. They leak out of you and ‘infect’ your family around you. So, when you make the conscious choice to be positive and upbeat, it takes four minutes for other family members to catch it too. So be enthusiastic for four minutes and everyone else will feel great too!

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Andy Cope is a happiness expert and co-author of The Little Book of Emotional Intelligence: How to Flourish in a Crazy World. For more information see www.artofbrilliance.co.uk Families Upon Thames 7

HALLOWEEN

How to get your kids in the Halloween spirit It’s one of the best times of the year for children, but how can you help your child get into the spirit of Halloween? We’ve come up with lots of ideas to create a truly scary atmosphere for your child so that everyone is ready and prepared for the spookiest event of the year!

Get crafty!

All children like to make a mess and be imaginative. Well, let them do this for Halloween. Most of these ideas only require simple materials and things you can find lying around your house.

Spooky spider crafts

For this, all you’ll need is an old toilet roll, paint, scissors, paper and googly eyes. Cut the end of the roll into eight leg-sized pieces and bend the legs upwards so they stick out. Dip the legs in black paint and print onto paper. Then stick on your eyes.

Milk bottle ghosts

Using empty milk cartons and black pen, draw spooky faces onto the plastic.

Get cooking!

Tissue paper ghouls

What better way to enjoy this event than with lots of edible treats? Below are some really easy and cheap ideas you can try at home.

Halloween decorations

Take your chocolate mousse (either homemade or shop bought) and crumble broken Oreo biscuits over the top to resemble dirt. Then stick a rich tea biscuit gravestone and use an icing pen to write the message on the tombstone.

Take an old jam jar and wrap with tissue paper. Then draw spooky faces onto the paper. You can then either place a torch inside or a candle with parental supervision. You can choose whether to design pumpkins, Frankenstein or ghouls and will then need orange, green or white tissue paper respectively. Wrap the tissue around a toilet roll, tuck in at one end and tie with a pipe cleaner at the other. Then decorate with whatever you can get your hands on!

Pumpkin prints

Cut an apple in half, dip in orange paint and have pumpkin shapes printed before your eyes!

Magic foaming potion

Take a glass and place it in a large container to catch overflowing liquid. Fill the glass about halfway full with vinegar. Then put a few drops of food colouring on a spoon with bicarbonate of soda (the more you use the bigger the foam). Stir the spoon into the vinegar and watch the magic happen. You could also add some glitter for extra sparkle!

Chocolate mousse gravestones

Get costume designing!

Costumes nowadays can be really expensive, and whilst some children will happily go out wearing a bin bag with arm holes cut in, others will want something a little more complex. Rather than spend a fortune on pricey costumes, find ways to design their own. Here are a few simple ideas.

Witch’s hat

Layer broken-up chocolate brownie and custard into a short glass. Once filled to the top, use two mini marshmallows and chocolate buttons to create eyes.

Roll a large piece of cardboard into a cone to fit the circumference of your child’s head. Glue, or tape from the inside and trim any spare cardboard (this could be used for decoration later). Then decorate as you please − use glitter, coloured can and pens to design your hat.

Jelly worms

Make a cardboard Wall-E

Halloween custard

Pack a cup with straws and pour in your jelly mix. Then leave to set in the fridge. Getting them out can be tricky, but you could turn this into a great Halloween game!

Muddy worms

Make up a batch of chocolate Angel delight and poke jelly worms out of the top as though they’re coming out of the ground. Then sprinkle with grated chocolate to look like worm casts.

Cheeseburger faces

A great dinner treat to celebrate Halloween and this requires no effort or skill! Simply place or tear cheese into faces and melt on the top of your burgers.

If your child likes Disney, then this character is incredibly easy to make and just involves cutting holes in a large cardboard box. If that doesn’t suffice, wrap arms and legs in tin foil and create goggles using either cardboard or an empty egg box.

Crocodile

Another way you can recycle those old boxes is by making a crocodile head. Take a long square box and cut a large triangular shape out of both sides for the jaws (make sure you cut enough out so your child can see). Then cut teeth out of white paper and voilà ! To make this even more specific, you could consider pairing this with a ticking clock to replicate the crocodile in Peter Pan.

For more amazing Halloween ideas, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk 8 Families Upon Thames

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EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2017 Assessing Choices

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SCHOOL NEWS

EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2017 Assessing Choices

NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL Building on the success of the new Pre-Prep which opened last September, Newland House in Twickenham, has just opened a new nursery school this term to provide pupils with a natural and seamless introduction to starting school. Within the nursery environment, children will benefit from the school’s proven expertise and passionate, supportive and individual teaching approach. The nursery provides them with time to explore, discover and grow whilst becoming accustomed to everyday routines within a safe and nurturing environment. Newland House is an experienced Prep School for girls and boys from ages 3 to 13 years. The school has an extensive, engaging curriculum, which fosters a sense of self-confidence and provides opportunities for children

to reach their full potential by encouraging learning at a comfortable and appropriate pace. Pupils have excellent academic outcomes, gaining scholarships and awards at top senior schools and The Independent Schools Inspectorate affirms that ‘Throughout the school, the quality of the pupils’ achievements and learning is excellent.’ Traditional standards are very important and exceptional pastoral provision supports individual development and a strong sense of community. The school is non-selective in Reception or children may join in Year 3 via an annual 7+ assessment.

HAMPTON PRE-PREP & PREP SCHOOL Hampton Pre-Prep & Prep School offers an excellent all-round education, with superb pastoral care and exceptional teaching. Every child is recognised as a unique individual and allowed to flourish in a caring, lively and happy environment. The school’s latest ISI report found that: ‘The achievements of the pupils are excellent… A close and nurturing atmosphere is at the heart of the school.’ The school’s stunning, new, state-of-the-art Prep building borders a local park and pupils enjoy an abundance of outdoor space, with onsite grass playing fields, an all-weather games

area and ‘the allotment corner’ with raised beds for growing flowers and vegetables. The welcoming and friendly Pre-Prep School and Kindergarten are accommodated in an attractive Edwardian building with a superbly equipped playground. Part of the Hampton School Trust, the Pre-Prep & Prep School enjoys close links with the nearby senior school and an increasing number of the boys move onto Hampton School via the Assured Place Scheme.

For further information, visit www.newlandhouse.net

For further information, visit www.hamptonprep.org.uk

TWICKENHAM PREP

ST GEORGE’S JUNIOR SCHOOL

Twickenham Prep (TPS) in Hampton is a co-educational, independent school for boys (aged 4 to13) and girls (aged 4 to11). The school’s nurturing environment, first-class facilities and strong pastoral care provide an excellent start to life at school. TPS is an inspiring place to be, with happy, enthusiastic children and experienced, committed staff. Pupils at TPS achieve great success, both academic and

extra-curricular, moving on to excellent independent secondary schools. There is a strong sense of community where kindness, consideration and courteousness are highly valued, and pupils leave as happy, confident, responsible and well-rounded individuals. Entry to the school is non-selective at Reception, with limited places available in other year groups subject to an assessment. Located in Hampton, TPS offers morning minibus services and a new onsite wraparound care provision from 7.30am to 6.30pm. Visitors are always welcome, either at the regular open mornings or on one of the prearranged personal tours.

For further information, visit www.twickenhamprep.org.uk 10 Families Upon Thames

Each child in the Nursery at St George’s Junior School, Weybridge (for girls and boys aged rising 3 upwards) is encouraged to develop at his or her own pace in a secure and stimulating environment. High priority is given to their personal and social development. The school

aims to ensure that by the end of their time in the Nursery, children are happy, confident, motivated, considerate and eager to learn. The children at St George’s benefit from a brand-new, state of the art Nursery building as well as the many indoor and outdoor facilities offered by the Junior School.

For further information, visit www.stgeorgesweybridge.com familiesonline.co.uk

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Passion for learning Preparation for life

EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2017 Assessing Choices

Scholarships available

OPEN MORNINGS: WEDNESDAY 11 OCTOBER 2017 11.00-1.00 TUESDAY 7 NOVEMBER 2017 11.00-1.00 For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian School, London SW11 2HB Five minutes’ walk from Clapham Junction

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To advertise in our Christmas issue call Mima Walia m: 07792 006546 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk

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SCHOOL NEWS THAMES CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Thames Christian College is a small independent secondary school for girls and boys in Battersea and is accessible from a wide area of London and the surrounding counties. Included in the Good Schools Guide, it is recognised for its strong Christian ethos. Small, well-behaved classes ensure that your child is known and valued while inspirational teaching develops independent learning and thinking. Pupils are characterised by their exceptional maturity which develops from a small relational environment. Pupils attain top grades across a wide range of subjects and have no difficulty in obtaining places at the sixth forms of their choice, including highly competitive independent and grammar schools. This summer 33% of all grades attained were

A*/A (9-7) and 78% of all grades were A*/C (9-4), significantly above the national average. In this rapidly changing world, pupils need a thorough and well-rounded education to succeed and enjoy life. Thames Christian is concerned with all aspects of its pupils’ lives: their behaviour; whether they show the right attitudes; how they respect others and relate to their friends; their achievements, not just academically, but also in the creative arts, sport and technology. It also offers a vibrant programme of co-curricular activities, competitions and trips, including an award-winning trip to Africa.

For further information, visit www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Part of the Hampton School Trust. IAPS Independent Day School for boys aged 3 -11 & girls aged 3 - 7 years

Open Mornings Friday 6 October and Friday 3 November 9.30am: Headmaster’s welcome – Prep School 9.45am - 11.00am: Tours – Pre-Prep and Prep Places can be reserved through our ‘Visit the School’ page

Our Impressive State Of The Art New Prep Building Is Now Open 020 8979 1844 www.hamptonprep.org.uk admissions@hamptonprep.org.uk Hampton Prep and Pre-Prep, Gloucester Road, Hampton, Middlesex, TW12 2UQ 12 Families Upon Thames

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THERE’S MORE TO SCHOOL THAN LESSONS By Liat Hughes Joshi

☛ These days, education is about much more than what goes on in the classroom. Most schools (whether state or private) offer a range of extra-curricular and enrichment activities and these can be fun, educational, sociable, confidence-boosting or all of these. So how can you ensure your child capitalises on the opportunities on offer but still gets the balance right between work, rest and play? Choosing activities Follow your son or daughter’s lead when deciding which classes to sign up for – most kids have a strong feel for what appeals to them. That said, it’s also worth pointing them towards something you think they might benefit from, such as drama sessions for a shy child. Don’t force a square peg into a round hole It might be ‘daddy’s dream’ for your son to be the next David Beckham but if your little boy hates the idea, it’s unwise to force him into the football club. Making

extra

children take up an activity that they really don’t feel good about, in the hope it’ll grow on them, can be counter-productive. Encourage persistence Some of us have flighty children who get super-excited about an activity but within weeks, lose enthusiasm – unfortunately only once you’ve coughed up a whole term’s fees. Consider having a rule that your child does have to see the period you paid for out before they can give up – they might well change their mind back after a few weeks anyway! How much is too much? There’s no set answer about how many activities are optimal – it varies for each child. Some will get more tired than others and find just one or two classes suffice, others embrace a packed schedule of karate to clarinet without losing energy.

Needs change over time Certainly most reception children are exhausted enough from school for the first term or so, without lengthening their day by adding extra activities. Keep things simple at this stage. Older primary children have a decent opportunity to learn a few different skills and enjoy classes, whereas once they start secondary, longer commutes, more homework and exam pressures might mean reining things in. Relaxation time is vital too Watch out for activity overscheduling – quiet contemplation and scope to be creative and relax is just as important as that second musical instrument or third sport. If your child doesn’t have space to just play and chill out, consider cutting back.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and ‘Raising Children: The Primary Years’ (Pearson). familiesonline.co.uk

If your child is struggling: particularly if he or she finds their class work difficult, it might be worth putting additional effort into building skills at home or with a tutor. Talk to their teacher about what help they need to focus on. Perhaps they can suggest fun but educational games, or workbooks.Tutoring can be expensive and you need to check the tutor’s credentials (because anyone can set up and call themselves a tutor) but one-to-one attention can have a remarkable impact on learning. Try tutorhunt.com to search for local tutors.

Taking things to the next level: if your child is coping well with all that school throws at them and they’ve found their passion – be it gymnastics or music – you could contact local clubs and associations to see how they can take their talent to the next level, with matches, performances or extra training.

Families Upon Thames 13

SCHOOL NEWS

EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2017 Assessing Choices

STAINES PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Staines Preparatory School has been delivering high-quality education for over 80 years. It has a strong track record of its pupils going on to competitive grammar and independent schools and a visit to the school will reveal all its children are confident, well-adjusted, global citizens. The school’s educational experience is both challenging

and fun, giving its pupils the tools to achieve well above the national average. This supportive and nurturing environment enables children to fulfil their potential and become independent, lifelong learners across all areas of the curriculum. Staines Preparatory School has multi-million pound developments of new classrooms, a science lab (which many secondary schools would be envious of), a large sports hall and theatre space which all pupils take advantage of. Private tours are available on request.

For further information, visit www.stainesprep.co.uk

OPEN DAY LISTINGS AUTUMN TERM 2017 HAMPTON PRE-PREP & PREP SCHOOL Friday, 6 October 9.30am to 11.00am Friday, 3 November 9.30am to 11.00am For further information or to reserve a place, call 020 8979 1844. NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL Welcome Mornings Friday, 3 November Friday, 1 December Please call 020 8865 1305 to book or to arrange an individual appointment; individual appointments for the Pre-Prep, Prep and Nursery are available on Monday and Wednesday mornings. STAINES PREPARATORY SCHOOL Saturday, 7 October 10.00am to 12.00pm Wednesday, 18 October 9.30am to 11.00am Please call 01784 450909 to book a personal tour. ST GEORGE’S WEYBRIDGE For further information call 01932 839437. THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE Open Mornings Wednesday, 11 October 11.00am to 1.00pm Tuesday, 7 November 11.00am to 1.00pm For further information, call 020 7228 3933. TWICKENHAM PREPARATORY SCHOOL Pre-Prep Thursday, 12 October 9.30am to 10.45am Please call 020 8979 6216 to reserve a place.

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF PARENTS’ EVENING

By Liat Hughes Joshi

Parents’ evening is your opportunity to get feedback on how your child’s doing at school, so how can you get the most of your time in there?

Plan Your appointment might only be for five or ten minutes so prioritise what you want to cover in advance. What do you need to know the most and what do you want to communicate to the teacher? Write a list and put it in order of importance in case you run short of time. Take a pen or pencil and paper to write notes. Be realistic about what the teacher will tell you The style of feedback teachers

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give has changed since most of us were kids – it tends to be less blunt and less about direct comparisons with classmates. Don’t expect class rankings for example. Stay ‘on point’ Parents’ evenings usually run to tight schedules and most teachers will stick strictly to the time limits. Save the general chit-chat for another day and keep the conversation focused. Be open-minded about less flattering feedback You might receive negative feedback, albeit this should be constructive. Even if you don’t agree, stay calm and at least hear

the teacher out respectfully before asking further questions. Don’t be surprised if the teacher talks about a ‘different child’ (not literally!) Sometimes children behave or

14 Families Upon Thames

perform differently at school compared to at home – your child might be extremely chatty with you but very quiet in the classroom for example. Need more information or still have concerns? It’s normally fine to request a follow-up meeting with the teacher.

familiesonline.co.uk

Small Class Sizes

Family Ethos

An all-round education

Competitive Fees

Independent Co-Ed

Staines Preparatory School @stainesprep

3 - 11 Years

stainesprep.co.uk

01784 450909 info@stainesprep.co.uk 3 Gresham Road, Staines TW18 2BT

Call us any time to book a personal tour or have a look on our website for our Open Morning dates

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Charity begins at home for Stagecoach Twickenham and Teddington Since taking over Stagecoach Twickenham three years ago Sarah and Will Chitty have thrown every ounce of their performing passion into this now-thriving Performing Arts School, adding the Teddington branch one year later. Their classes see over 500 students coming through their doors to build confidence, make friends, dance, sing and act their way through the weekend. Sarah and Will strive to give their pupils the best care they can with opportunities to perform in the West End and the local community. The school helps to switch on the lights at Christmas,

dance at Summer fairs and fetes, go on adventure holidays, visit the theatre, take part in stunt workshops and play with UV puppets to improvise, imagine and explore. The school also supports the local charity Momentum, which helps children with cancer or life-limiting conditions and their families. Sarah and a team of locals recently cycled 100 miles to raise money for it in the Prudential Ride London, raising over £6,000. Sarah and Will are proud to have been selected from all the Stagecoach performances across the network to appear in the Stagecoach West End Charity Gala two years running. Last year the performance ‘Starman’ was inspired by David Bowie, with proceeds going toward Breast Cancer, a charity close to Sarah’s heart. It was dedicated to her mum who sadly passed away that year and her best friend who had just contracted the illness. This year students are performing their piece ‘Bulletproof’ which tackles the issue of bullying; this event will raise money for the Young Minds Charity.

Stagecoach Twickenham and Teddington is offering a FREE DISCOVERY DAY ON 10 DECEMBER. To book your place, email teddington@ stagecoach.co.uk

With so many pressures on young people today, from social media to school life, Sarah and Will want to make Stagecoach Twickenham and Teddington a place for children aged 4 to 18 to play, imagine, be themselves, find friends and realise their dreams. One pupil, Presley C, has just finished a year’s run in the West

End smash ‘School of Rock’ and has since obtained a scholarship to the famous Sylvia Young Theatre School. There are plans in the pipeline to offer more classes soon and a new Saturday afternoon school at St Mary’s and St Peter’s School in Teddington will start in January.

Join Stagecoach Twickenham and Teddington this October half term (23 to 27 October) for a Halloween Spook-Tac-Ular, suitable for children aged 4 to 18. For more information, see page20

For more information, visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/teddington

Perform’s Wizard of Oz themed dance, drama and singing courses for little ones Inspire your child’s imagination this October half term with one of Perform’s unique holiday courses for four to seven year olds. On these one and three-day courses at Kew Community Centre (23 to 25 October) the children will enter a world of musical fantasy as they re-enact the much-loved story of the Wizard of Oz. Join the adventure on the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Lion and the Tin Man as they set out to find the Wizard. Your child will delight in discovering the Ruby Slippers and

exploring the magical world of Oz with the friendly team of singers, dancers and actors.

To find out more, visit www.perform.org.uk/holidays 16 Families Upon Thames

familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Can’t stop those dancing feet!

Ballet Tap Ballet and Tap Modern Dance and Tap Jazz Hip Hop Contemporary Break Dance Street Dance Commercial Dance With so many dance styles on offer, it can be hard for parents to choose the right one for their little ones. Sally J. Hall has some great ideas to encourage your child’s love of dance. Ah, the ballet. All those gorgeous costumes, perfect turn-outs, buns and the sublime music. Who hasn’t dreamed of being a Prima Ballerina when prancing around the bedroom in a synthetic net tutu? And if you actually went as far as learning to dance when you were younger, you might be keen to instil this love of dance in your child – even if you gave up when you weren’t allowed to tie your shoe ribbons up to your knee. How can you find out what kind of class is best for your child, whether they are a boy or a girl? Read on to find the perfect dance space for your child

will keep them keen, entertained and going back each week. Expect to have to stay for these classes and possibly join in too. Try a Diddy Dance class – you can take your child to a taster session for free to see if they like it and the classes help to enhance your child’s coordination and sense of rhythm in a fun and relaxed session. They cater for boys and girls from 18 months and they use ribbons and hoops as well as other fun props. They include lots of different influences including jive, salsa, disco, tap and hip hop (diddidance.com). Stagecoach also offers dance, acting and singing as a part of its performing arts syllabus and has classes for those aged four to six and for six to eighteen years (stagecoach.co.uk).

Tiny dancer

If your child makes it past the age of five or six and still wants to go to class, it may be time to start looking at a proper training class where they can take grades or get involved with productions. The choice for ballet is the Royal Academy of Dance (rad.org.uk) syllabus or for modern dance there’s the Imperial Society Modern Theatre & Tap Dance (istd.org) course. If they are still keen but aren’t motivated by

When your child is very young, shuffling around on tip toe while wafting their hands or pretending to be a tiger is about as much as you can ask for. Look for a class that teaches very young children together, not mixed in with older age groups where they will probably be ignored or will be disruptive. A class where there’s an emphasis on having fun and doing different dancing games each time familiesonline.co.uk

Starting to get more serious

grades, find a class that keeps their attention and won’t get boring. Street and jazz dance are great for this as they will learn new routines all the time. They can also try out holiday classes where they might spend a week doing different activities – this gives them a great grounding in what they might be best at. All-round schools are also options where they learn to sing, act and dance.

modern dancers in all areas – the stage, TV and touring groups. There’s even a Boys’ Ballet school in London (boysballetlondon. com) that teaches the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus.

What’s available?

Royal Ballet Associates training

If you’re not sure what all these styles entail, it’s best to take your child along to have a look or try a taster session. One style may resonate. And if they get older and hang up their ballet shoes, why not encourage them to move on to a funkier style rather than give up dancing altogether?

Boy’s brigade

Ballet Tap Ballet and Tap Modern Dance and Tap Jazz Hip Hop Contemporary Break Dance Street Dance Commercial Dance (a blend of Street and Hip Hop)

If your child has been taking ballet grades and is seriously thinking about a career in dance, the Royal Ballet runs classes to prepare them for this move. The Associates Programme trains children aged eight to fifteen in conjunction with their usual classes (royalballetschool.org.uk). Dance is not just for girls and though your son may have to cope with teasing if he intends to dance and carry on dancing, there are plenty of roles for ballet, jazz and

extra

Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley). Families Upon Thames 17

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Performing Arts

Dramacube

will participate in acting, singing and dance as they work towards a performance under the lights for friends and family on day three. Days one and two will be at the United Reformed Church (on Hampton Hill High Street) with a technical rehearsal, dress rehearsal and performance at the Noel Coward Studio at Hampton Hill Theatre on day three.

Halloween Workshop For Ages: 7 to 14 25 to 27 October In: Hampton Hill Join Dramacube this half term for a thrilling three-day workshop this October! Inspired by scary songs, spooky tales and creepy dance routines from stage and screen, this workshop will certainly set the scene for Halloween. Supported by a professional director, choreographer and musical director, children

Contact: Stephen Leslie 020 8408 0245 www.dramacubeproductions.co.uk

HAH LLOL WO IW W DE HOORO AE YN LKISD WO RK S AOO YPP RKS HH HO P

Pyjama Drama For Ages: 6 mths to 7 A Very Noisy Night For Ages: 2 to 5 24 October (10am & 11am) In: Hersham The fire is crackling, the sausages popping and the fireworks banging. I’ve got my hands over my ears and poor Percy the cat is shaking from head to toe! How can we keep everyone safe and have fun on this very noisy night? Down in the Dungeon For Ages: 5 to 7 24 October (1pm to 4pm) In: Walton-on-Thames What is lurking in the deep dark dungeon under the stairs? Could it be a big scary monster or a squeaky little mouse or even a friendly ghost? Come and explore and find out! Drop-off class. A Very Noisy Night For Ages: 2 to 5 25 October (10am to 10:40am) In: Cobham

Have a

The Colours of Autumn For Ages: 6 mths to 2 25 October (11am to 11:35am) In: Cobham The wind is picking up, there is a chill in the air and the leaves are drifting from the trees. Join in and crunch, munch and tumble your way through this multi-coloured autumn time. Contact: Vicky Campbell-Hall vicky@pyjamadrama.com pyjamadrama.com

THRILLING

HALF TERM this October

Let us occupy your ghouls and gremlins this October in a gruesome week filled with singing, dancing and drama!

3 days of Scary songs, spooky tales & creepy routineS

We will create a Halloween show for family and friends.

Booking essential. Spaces Limited!

LITTLE GOBLINS

Ages: 4-6 Time: 9.30-1.30pm 23-27th October £135 sibling £115 Venue: Stanley School, Strathmore Road, Teddington TW11 8UH

HALLOWEEN SPOOK-TAC-U-LAR Ages: 6-18 Time: 10-4.30pm 23-27th October £165 sibling £135 Venue: Stanley School, Strathmore Road, Teddington TW11 8UH

stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham 07824 999414 07824 999414

18 Families Upon Thames

Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd. Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

Book your space today on this SPOOKTACULAR week.

with a performance at the Hampton Hill Studio Theatre on day 3. For ages 7-14 years. Only £99.

Wed 25 - Fri 27 October 9.30am - 4pm Hampton Hill

020 8408 0245 contact@dramacube.co.uk www.dramacubeproductions.co.uk DramacubeProductions

Dramacube

@Dramacubeshows

Dramacube Productions

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CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Little Voices South West London Celebrates 10 Years of Stars

Little Voices in South West London appears to be breeding children with a love of the performing arts, if the burgeoning numbers at local singing and acting school, Little Voices, is anything to go by. This year marks its 10th anniversary nationally and the organisation has grown exponentially since it started in 2007. Little Voices is one of the UK’s most outstanding, professional and inspirational organisations, dedicated to helping children reach their full potential in drama and singing and nurturing them as individuals. Principal Ashlea Pearson commented: ‘Little Voices has made a huge difference to the confidence and overall development of lots of children across SW London academically and socially. I loved to perform and I have gone on to create my career in the performing arts industry. Many of the children that we teach come each week for their lessons

and whilst building their CV from a young age and nurturing their vocal and dramatic talents they have fun, make lifelong friendships and we nurture their skills for life. Drama and Singing is a really accessible, fun way of building confidence to speak in public to become an effective communicator. A child can understand and learn how to present themselves, give good eye contact, have good posture and overcome anxiety and nerves in any life situation. Blackburn-born founder, Jane Maudsley, said; ‘The arts are being cut from the school curriculum and less importance is being placed on the importance of music and drama. It is so important, the arts can give a child and young person so much – Little Voices can bridge that gap for young people and ensure that they do not miss out on vital life skills acquired through arts training. Parents and headteachers across the UK are turning to Little Voices to provide the missing building blocks of an all-round education. We are delivering our lessons

For more information about Little Voices please contact Ashlea on 0208 088 0113 / SWL@littlevoices.org.uk or visit the website www.littlevoices.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

throughout the school day as well as providing the valuable after-school activities for schools and busy working parents.’ When the founder, Jane Maudsley, opened Little Voices in 2007, which has a very professional focus using expert guidance and traditional methods, there were just 12 pupils in total. Since then Little Voices has become a national success and the organisation teaches thousands of young people across the country from as young as four years old right up to eighteen years old. Little Voices theatrical workshop lessons are small in size allowing Ashlea and her team of tutors to give individual attention and care which is highly significant to the success of the

children. Our aim is for every child to receive a personalised experience at every lesson, even in this thriving business,’ continues Ashlea. ‘Our success is proven by our constant 100% pass rate in the LAMDA drama examinations, year after year, towards which all our students work.’ One of Little Voices’ students, Max Moorehouse began training with the performing arts organisation at aged five years old in 2007. Max has now gone on to secure amazing roles in shows such as The Railway Children in the West End and has an endless list of wonderful LAMDA examination results which has further enhanced his CV.

Little Voices boys and girls 7-18, working towards accredited Musical Theatre Examinations Mini Voices boys and girls 4-7, building confidence and self belief in a fun and exciting way .SMALL CLASS SIZES .HIGHLY QUALIFIED TUTORS .100% EXAMINATION PASS RATE

www.littlevoices.org.uk SWL@littlevoices.org.uk call: 0208 088 0117 Christ’s School, Queens Road, Richmond Upon Thames, TW10 6HW. Families Upon Thames 19

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Performing Arts Perform

Wizard of Oz Half Term Holiday Course For Ages: 4 to 7 23 to 25 October In: Kew Why not inspire your child’s imagination and book them into one of Perform’s unique one and three-day courses? Children will enter a world of musical fantasy as they re-enact the much-loved story of the Wizard of Oz. Contact: 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/holidays

Stagecoach

Halloween Spook-Tac-Ular For Ages: 6 to 18 23 to 27 October (10am to 4.30pm) In: Teddington Join Stagecoach this October for a Halloween Spectacular! It will be creepy, it will be crazy, it will be ghostly, spooky and sensational and your little ghouls and gremlins will be sure to have a gruesome time! Children are split into age-related groups and work towards a performance for family and friends on the final day of the course. Students are taught singing, acting and dancing by the friendly, enthusiastic, experienced and DBS-checked teachers. Whether you are looking to learn new skills, make friends or build confidence,

Stagecoach has something to offer your child. The week culminates in a performance on stage with lights and costumes. Little Goblins For Ages: 4 to 6 23 to 27 October (9.30am to 1.30pm) In: Teddington Let Stagecoach take care of your mini goblins and gremlins this Halloween! It will bring friendly playful ghosts and wonderful witches to the stage and create a spooky, sensational show with your little ones. They will dance, sing, act and maybe even create a spell or two. Spaces limited, BOOKING ESSENTIAL! Contact: Sarah Chitty 07824 999414 twickenham@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham

Just Imagine Ballet

Twinkle Ballet 15 months 5 years old -

Sparkle Ballet 6 - 11 years old

Dazzle Ballet 11 - 18 years old

Our pupils perform at The Royal Ballet School

07879 521 456 info@twinkletoesballet.com RICHMOND - ST MARGARETS - TWICKENHAM KEW - EAST SHEEN - TEDDINGTON

NEW - RAD Classical Program - optional exams 20 Families Upon Thames

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CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Arts &Crafts

Sports

Happy Potter Ceramics

Halloween-inspired Creative Workshops For Ages: 5+ In: Teddington 24 October (11am to 1pm) Unicorn Pumpkins Let’s face it, everything is better with a little sparkle! Children will learn how to turn their pumpkins into a unicorn! Something a little different this Halloween. 25 October (11am to 1pm) Pottery Lantern Painting Discover a spooky way to decorate your house! 26 October (11am to 1pm) Terrifying Tie Dye Learn different techniques to create the scariest tie-dye T-shirts, ready to take home that day (T-shirts supplied)! 27 October (11am to 1pm) Decopatch Mask Making and Paper Decorations Make the scariest masks you’ll see this Halloween from

Coerver® Coaching

scratch to spook up your house! All workshops include lunch and face painting! Contact: Una 02089731468 info@happypotterceramics.co.uk www.happypotterceramics.co.uk

Half Term Football Course For Ages: 7 to 15 Dates TBC In: Kingston (9am to 3pm) and Hounslow (9am to 3.30pm) Coerver® Coaching West London is running a half-term holiday course for boys and girls. Each session will be based on the individual 1v1 skills of players such as Lionel Messi, Gareth Bale and Paul Pogba. Participants will also have the opportunity to use the latest football equipment and win adidas® prizes in Coerver® skill competitions. Contact: 020 3544 2284 Matt Suggitt 07787 898898 Michael Cook 07387 268562 westlondon@coerver.co.uk www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon

Fre Book e Assessm e your c hild nnt ow! Warm water Max 5 children in a group Teachers in the water Dry Coffee area UV filtered water Adult lessons Private Car Parking

The Toy Shop

Half Term Halloween Activities For Ages: 3 to 10 23 to 28 October In: St Margarets, Twickenham A week of Halloween-inspired arts and crafts, including pottery painting, decoupage, sand art, cooking and sewing. Contact: Sarah Elms 020 8607 9995 hello@thetoyshop-stmargarets.com www.thetoyshop-stmargarets.com

07915 510720

info@teamswimschool.com www.teamswimschool.com

WEEKLY

LOCAL

CLASSES

A r n g s a e r i KINGSTON, SURBITON AND THAMES DITTON KINGSTON, SURBITON AND THAMES DITTON E: kingston.surbiton@monkeymusic.co.uk E:0208 kingston.surbiton@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 224 3971

T: 0208 224 3971

RICHMOND, TWICKENHAM AND TEDDINGTON E: kew.teddington@monkeymusic.co.uk RICHMOND, TWICKENHAM AND T: 0208 847 4031

TEDDINGTON E: kew.teddington@monkeymusic.co.uk WEYBRIDGE, MOLESEY AND COBHAM T: 0208 847 4031 E: weybridge.cobham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 224 0096

WEYBRIDGE, MOLESEY AND COBHAM

BANSTEAD, ESHER AND CLAYGATE E: weybridge.cobham@monkeymusic.co.uk E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T:01932 0208 T: 223224 309 0096

with Water Babies, the UK’s leading baby swim school

3 Fully qualified, world class instructors 3 Award-winning programme teaches babies from birth 3 Teaching you to teach your baby to swim 3 Saving lives through water confidence and safety skills To join in the fun call

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01932 227 428

classes held. . . Addlestone, Shepperton, Kingston, Chessington, Morden, Richmond & Cobham

waterbabies.co.uk Families Upon Thames 21

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES Indoor soft play for Under 5’s

Ceramics Café Kew Original Ceramics - Painted By You

Sunshine Play Cafe i Crafts, Toys, Open Mon-FrTim e, rm 10am-3pm, Te Occ. Hols Bouncy Castle! d an rm Books, Magazines and Half Te

To advertise your clubs and classes call Mima Walia m: 07792 006546 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk

Studio Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-6pm Sunday 11am-6pm

Baby Play Area. Hot drinks. Homemade cakes, hot and cold food and kids lunchboxes For More Info, Check Website: www.sunshineplaycafe.co.uk or Call Sarah: 07949 135 211/Poochie66@hotmail.co.uk We Can Orgainise Your Party Too! Twickenham RFC South Rd, Hampton TW12 3PE. Free Parking

Closed Mon, except Bank Holidays and Half Terms www.ceramicscafe.com Tel: 020 8332 6661

1a Mortlake Terrace, Kew Green Richmond TW9 3DT

Award winning classes from newborn to 5 years

Classes in:

ASHTEAD, COBHAM, CLAYGATE, HERSHAM, WALTON Contact Vicky on

Book a FREE trial class today! Gymboree Walton on Thames 01932 221 371

waltononthames@gymboree-uk.com

Gymboree Surbiton as

Sensory Baby Play, Play & Learn, Music, Art & Parties!

2013 winner!

‘Best national pre-schooler development activity’

w .w h

ce en

vicky@pyjamadrama.com

wi tion th Kon fd cia so

Gymboree St Margarets 020 8607 9995

.co es ats on4littleon

AS SEEN ON

020 3609 8007

surbiton@gymboree-uk.com

stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com .u k

or email

gymboree-uk.com

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

DISCOVER RUGBYTOTS

Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email:

0345 313 3242

enquiries@rugbytots.co.uk

rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

FOOTIE TOTS THE PERFORMANCE ACADEMY IS THE UK’S PREMIER GRASSROOTS PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME FOR BOYS & GIRLS AGED 7-17 YEARS OLD. UPON SUCESSFUL TRIAL AND INVITATION TO JOIN OUR PROGRAMME, ALL MEMBERS RECEIVE AN UNRIVALLED LEVEL OF INDIVIDUAL SUPPORT BOTH ON AND OFF THE TRAINING FIELD.

BOOK YOUR

FREE!

TRIAL SESSION NOW!

HOUNSLOW

KINGSTON

THE HEATHLANDS SCHOOL WELLINGTON ROAD SOUTH T W4 5JD

TIFFIN BOY’S SCHOOL LONDON ROAD K T2 6NH

TELEPHONE US! 020 3544 2284

EMAIL US! WESTLONDON@COERVER.CO.UK

MONDAYS

TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS

@coer verEW

22 Families Upon Thames

Welcome to the world of fitness and football for 2.5 to 5 year olds Teaching basic ball skills, scoring lots of goals and having FUN!

FOOTIE WIZARDS For children ages 5 to 8

Hampton, Teddington, Twickenham, Richmond, Feltham and Hounslow, ALL CLASSES call 07931 707720 HELD INDOORS andy@footie-tots.co.uk FOOTBALL PARTIES AVAILABLE

Esher, Molesey, Thames Ditton, Walton, Kingston and Surbiton, call 07828 629531

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10 FREE ways

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

to keep the kids entertained, whatever the weather...

Whilst the zoo, cinema and sporting events can be fun, they soon burn a whole in your pocket, but don’t fear, there is help at hand…

1. Hiking

All you have to do is put on your most sensible form of footwear and head out there. Getting out up a hill or through a forest can open up your children’s imaginations. The smell and touch of the outdoors are a welcome change from everyday life. The kids will love exploring new surroundings too.

2. Museums and art galleries

There are countless free museums and art galleries out there to be explored on a whole range of different subjects. You don’t have to go far either; there’s probably one in your own town. The beauty of them is that your children will be learning, having fun and being inspired at the same time, meaning they can be a wonderful recipe for knowledge.

3. Home cinema

The actual cinema is getting very expensive, so expensive that a lot of people these days leave the popcorn and the drinks out of their experience. Anyone who’s

had to tell a child that they can’t have those things knows how difficult it can be. Instead, watch out for the latest premiere on your home TV, darken the room and make your own popcorn. The kids will love it, and you’ll love not having to travel and pay a small fortune for snacks.

4. Volunteer

OK, this may be a hard sell but could provide a wonderful life lesson. Volunteering can be done on a huge range of tasks, be it simply providing company for a neighbour, walking a dog, helping out in a charity shop, helping plant trees or anything else that benefits another fellow human or cause. Learning the value of doing something for nothing may give your children a fulfilling early life experience.

5. Baking

Cooking is an important life lesson for anybody, so why not start them out young with the most joyous from of cooking, baking! Dependent on their age, you could get a cartoon

cake mix or make your own grown-up cake. The kids will love getting involved, especially with all the messy parts of baking. Getting them to clean up after themselves, however, may be a bit more difficult!

6. Bike ride

Bikes are a great, free and fun way to spend a few hours. Whether you have somewhere local or can drive to a park, the children will love the independence and freedom that comes with riding a bike. It’s a great way to travel long distances in a short space of time, and they’ll feel like they’ve really achieved something.

7. Trip to the pond

A local pond is a great way to find wildlife that may be missing from your back garden. From frogs and tadpoles to fish swimming below, it gives little ones a taste of the outdoors in a safe environment. You can also take part in a classic pastime − just grab some bread and feed the ducks, they’ll love it.

8. Make something

All you need is some simple arts and crafts to let their imagination go wild. With some card and sticky tape you can make anything in the world! Maybe make a paper boat or a plane. Or perhaps it’s someone’s birthday coming up and you want to make them a custom card. It’s a great way to get their creative side working.

9. Sports at the park

Grab a bat, ball or whatever they love and head to the nearest park. Get your friends and their families involved and make a day of it. You don’t have to attend expensive sports events or classes to enjoy what they love. Get involved yourself and they’ll love it even more.

10. Puzzles

They seem to be a dying breed now with the invention of mobiles and tablets, but sitting down as a family and completing a jigsaw, a puzzle or a board game is a wonderful way to spend a few hours with the family. All you need to remember is not to get too competitive!

For more ideas to keep the kids entertained, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families Upon Thames 23

AUTUMN DAYS OUT

Have a Spooktacular time at Chessington Garden Centre this October! Dare to enter the Creepy Maze, full of spooky surprises and perilous thrills? Can you escape the ‘un-dead’ ends before it’s too late? If the answer is yes, then head to Chessington Garden Centre from 7 to 31 October where Halloween is back and bigger than ever! This year, Cirque Normandies returns with a spectacular Halloween Circus. This all-new show is hosted in a Halloween-themed, heated Big Top and stars bats, a werewolf, comedy policemen, witches and more in an adventure sure to entertain the whole family.

If you’re looking for an unmissable experience, head to the amazing Spooky Zoo, which returns for a fourth fantastic year. Take this opportunity to get up close to a variety of exotic reptiles whilst learning about them from the experts on hand. Each interactive session allows visitors a chance to handle and have their photo taken with a fantastic array of creatures. If all that has left you hungry, then head to the Sedum Restaurant which is serving up a monstrous meal-time treat. Enjoy some terrifyingly good dishes, including Witches Fingers and Zombie Brains, whilst being entertained with some fiendishly fun songs

To book your tickets and for more information, visit www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk

and games by Count Dracula himself!

Hallowe'en Hocus Pocus: Ghoulish Ghosts and to Add some colour Wicked Witches at Ham your weekend this House and Garden

autumn at Gibside

Take part in our witch hunt, discover ghostly goings on and ways to ward off witches with our trail this Hallowe'en Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest half term. There's spooky storytelling, teeming with wildlife and autumn colours, with walking routes art for alland ages and abilities.terror tours. eerie terrible nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside Call 020 8940 1950 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your

©support National Trust Theplaces National helps us to look2017. after special <in the region> <like property Y and Proeprty Z> in for ever, for everyone. Trust is X,anproperty independent registered charity, number 205846. © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent © National Trust registered charity, number PhotographyTrust #nationaltrust Photography ©205846. National Images. #nationaltrust Images.

Celebrate the season of crunchy leaves with half-term events at Claremont Landscape Garden, Hatchlands Park, Morden Hall Park, Polesden Lacey, River Wey and Winkworth Arboretum #nationaltrust

nationaltrust.org.uk

Don’t forget to mention where you saw the ad! familiesonline.co.uk

AUTUMN DAYS OUT

Dare you take on Howl’o’ween at Chessington?

Visit Chessington World of Adventures Resort between 20 and 31 October for a spooky Howl’o’ween experience, NOW with two new attractions! Open late every night until 8pm, there’s hair-raising fun for all the family this Howl’o’ween at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, with four attractions including brand new Creepy Caves Unearthed, Chessington’s scariest attraction yet, plus Room on the Broom* Spooky Story Time, also new for 2017. Chessington also sees the daring return of Curse of the Lost Tomb and Trick or Treat Wood, as well as rides in the dark and animal shows. With a week of spectacles set to be unleashed, thrills, howls and family fun awaits the bravest of guests. Creepy Caves Unearthed New for 2017 and with a ‘three bat rating’, Creepy Caves Unearthed is Chessington’s scariest attraction yet. No one knows why the famous reptile and creepy crawly exhibit in the Zoo closed its doors at the end of 2016… until now. Secret Agents will lead you through the quarantined caves for your exclusive look at the newly discovered plant species, found in the snake enclosure. But, with zoo keepers missing and strange things happening, who knows what powerful properties might

be unearthed. Chessington has issued one warning: ‘enter at your own risk’. Room on the Broom Also new for 2017, Room on the Broom Spooky Story Time − with a ‘one bat rating’, young Adventurers can enjoy a spooky storytelling with characters from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved story. Meet the witch with ‘a very tall hat’ and find out if there is room for you and your family on her ‘truly magnificent broom’. Curse of the Lost Tomb The ‘two bat rated’ Curse of the Lost Tomb maze will be returning and is sure to get toes tingling and hearts beating once again, as Adventurers are encouraged to delve into the secret lost tomb of Genghis Khan, full of mystery and riddles. Meet an intriguing archaeologist in possession of a cryptic map and venture deeper and deeper into the tomb to help unveil the mystery behind this ancient site. Will all be revealed, or

will the cursed tomb claim those who dare to enter? With a ghostly surprise at every turn and live actors, this interactive maze isn’t for the faint hearted. Trick or Treat Wood For those who prefer their scares a little sweeter, the Trick or Treat Wood is the perfect choice. Younger Adventurers must choose which path they’d like to take past the bewitching tree − will it be a tempting treat or a troublesome trick? Enchanted fairies and ghostly goblins will guide little explorers on their way, with plenty of tricks and treats suitable for families of all ages. With a ‘one bat rating’ the whole family can join for this magical trip into the woods.

on the main stage with a daily prize for the whole family and lots of character meet and greets promising fun and spooks around every corner. Head to Chessington.com to book Early Bird tickets with prices starting from just £28! *Room on the Broom © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2001− Macmillan Children’s Books.

Rides in the dark are also making their return this year, with Chessington remaining open for last ride entry at 8pm. Take a flight of fright on Vampire to soar through the trees, spin underneath the stars on Dragon’s Fury’s, or incur the wrath of Rameses’ Revenge with Chessington’s favourite rides available to enjoy under the dark cloak of night. Chessington offers a world of excitement for the whole family this Howl’o’ween, with spooky animal shows, a fancy dress show

For the best deals, visit www.chessington.com familiesonline.co.uk

Families Upon Thames 25

AUTUMN DAYS OUT

Halloween fun for all ages at London Museum of Water & Steam Creep down to the London Museum of Water & Steam this half term for some scarily wicked SpOOkfest fun! From 21 to 29 October you can follow the gruesome word trail and if you are brave, take a trip on the Ghost Train which will run all week. Families can have fun making ghoulish creatures in the creepy craft area and if the kids dress up in their best spooky costume they go free with a full paying adult. On 21, 22, 28 and 29 October visitors can also witness Victorian

engineering at its very best when the museum demonstrates its mighty water pumping engines powered by steam. For the older scare seekers, the Pop Up Opera Company returns to perform Humperdinck’s timeless dark fantasy Hansel & Gretel (19 October) surrounded by the magnificent engines. In the dizzying excitement of the Witch’s Ride and the serene beauty of the children’s evening prayer, Humperdinck’s music magically evokes the contrasting worlds of this enchanting and thrilling story. Tickets must be pre-booked. The London Museum of Water & Steam is open daily from 11am to 4pm and has a lovely café serving homemade Terrifying Treats. Discounted tickets are available online and pre- booking is advised for guaranteed entry. For more information, visit www.waterandsteam.org.uk

CREEPY CREATURES 21 – 29 OCTOBER

Discover Creepy Creatures this October half-term Buy garden tickets at rhs.org.uk/wisley and save 10%. RHS members go free. RHS Registered Charity No. 222879 / SC038262

26 Families Upon Thames

Halloween Hocus Pocus: Ghoulish Ghosts and Wicked Witches at Ham House and Garden Enjoy Hallowe’en hocus pocus this half term at Ham House and Garden with ghoulish ghosts and wicked witches. Families can pick up a ‘Witch Hunt’ (21 to 29 October) and explore the house and gardens, discovering magical clues, ways to ward off witches and a variety of activities along the way. You may even encounter its very own familiar, Simba the cat. Witch Hunt maps cost £2 each, with a small prize for completing the hunt. The Witch Hunt will run from 10am to 5pm, with activities in the house running from 12pm to 4pm. There’s spooky goings on at Ham House and Garden in Ghostly Tours in the Dark. Find out about the resident ghost dog and other spooky sightings on one of the Terrible Terror Tours (23 to 27 October). Terrible

Terror Tours are running from 5pm to 6pm; tickets are £10 and each include ghostly goodies.

For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse familiesonline.co.uk

AUTUMN DAYS OUT

Spooky half-term fun at the National Trust Head to a National Trust property this half term for spooky trails, scary stories, creepy crafts, pumpkin carving and lots more to enjoy a truly spine-chilling day out! Pumpkin Fun It’s all about pumpkins this half term at Morden Hall Park (23 to 27 October). Join a trail in the park to discover a yummy pumpkin recipe and then create some gorgeous autumn crafts to take home. Don’t forget, if you bring your own pumpkin you can borrow all the kit you need to carve it! Pumpkins are also the order of the day at Claremont Landscape Garden in Esher. Get creative and carve a spooky pumpkin to scare your friends (26 October, 11am to 1pm). Spooky Trails Head out into the garden on a Gothic-themed family trail at Claremont Landscape Garden (21 to 31 October) or to Winkworth Arboretum in Godalming for a spooky trail to celebrate Happy Hallowe’en (21 to 29 October). At both events, children dressed in Halloween costumes will be given free entry although additional charges apply for the trail. If you are still feeling brave, then journey over the rainbow at Polesden Lacey (near Dorking) with Toto’s Return to Oz on this wicked Halloween trail (21 to 29 October). Help Mrs Greville’s dogs Josey and Dougall find Toto’s magic ruby collar in a dangerous quest that sees you following the yellow brick road past angry trees and flying monkeys! A mission only for the bravest of heroes! Halloween Activities Make all sorts of Gothic-themed spooky crafts at the Hallowe’en Craft Workshops at Claremont Landscape Garden (23 to 27 October). Helpers will be on hand to assist you with your creations in this seasonal children’s workshop.

A Bit of Everything… The wicked witches of the East and West and the good witches of the North and South are flying to Dapdune Wharf for Half Term Witchcraft! (23 to 29 October) to meet up with the wizards. Come and join them in their mischief! Make your own broom, get lost in the spooky maze and learn how to make bubbling potions. It might be spooky, it might be frightful, but you can be certain it will be magical! If you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge then Wild Learning’s half-term adventure holiday club at Winkworth Arboretum is perfect (23 to 27 October)! Children aged between 5 and 12 will love to have fun and explore the woods as they learn new skills. Visit www.wild–learning.net for more details. As darkness falls, Claremont Landscape Garden and Dapdune Wharf play host to some

sinister goings on! At Claremont Landscape Garden, listen to spooky stories in the play area, then steel your nerves for a sinister saunter around the garden (27 October). Don’t forget your costume for free entry to the garden! Test your fitness and your fears at Dapdune Wharf (28 October) in a Spooktacular Family Night-time Fun Run around the haunted Wharf and island. Look out for a string of spooky surprises on the way! Dressing up encouraged. If celebrating Halloween is all too much, then celebrate Awesome Autumn instead at Hatchlands Park in East Clandon (23 to 29 October). Visitors can learn about leaves and the trees they fall from on this fun autumn trail through the park and woodland. Take a leaf rubbing of some of the most spectacular species and celebrate the fiery seasonal colour.

For further information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Creepy, crafty fun at RHS Garden Wisley Celebrate Autumn with a trip to RHS Garden Wisley where you will enjoy a host of activities to celebrate the new season. Admire the traditional skills on display at the artisan woodcraft demonstrations at Festival of Trees (6 to 8 October). Visitors can take part in family activities, all inspired by the natural beauty of wood, and don’t miss out on the rip-roaring carving displays from Stihl! To coincide with half term (21 to 29 October), RHS Garden Wisley has lots of child-friendly events. Discover all there is to know about Creepy Creatures with crafts, planting seeds, trails and lots more. Pumpkin Carving will also be available for three days on a pre-booked workshop.

The workshop costs £4 per pumpkin and all the tools and templates are provided! Children must be accompanied by an adult and pumpkin-carving sessions must be booked in advance online. Book entry tickets online and receive a 10% discount.

For more information, visit www.rhs.org.uk/wisley familiesonline.co.uk

Families Upon Thames 27

THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS SHOW FOR ALL THE FAMILY

based on Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman White Music and lyrics by Howard Blake

“Sheer theatrical magic. Go see The Snowman and melt”

100c 75m G 0k B R A T I N0y

The Times

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YEAR

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ET ONLY £115 FAMILY TImusCK t include at least 1 child 4 tickets,

Transaction fee applies.

Max £3

23 Nov - 31 Dec

020 7863 8222 peacocktheatre.com

The Look Out Discovery Centre

The Fire & Light Show 16th September 2017 - 7th January 2018 Show times are 11am, 12noon, 2pm and 3.15pm

A fun show for all the family! Amazing discoveries with fire and light.

Valid until 7/01/18 *Terms and conditions apply.

✃

Be Amazed...

FAM SW

Bring this advert to get one free child with one full paying adult*.

Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW

Tel: 01344 354400 www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery 28 Families Upon Thames

familiesonline.co.uk

AUTUMN DAYS OUT

Fireworks Preview LEGOLAND Fireworks 21, 22, 27 & 28 OCT Winkfield Rd, Windsor SL4 4AY Burhill School Fireworks FRI 3 NOV New Berry Lane, Hersham KT12 4HQ Saxon Fun and Fireworks FRI 3 NOV Saxon School, Briar Rd, Shepperton TW17 0JB St James School Twickenham Fireworks FRI 3 NOV Stanley Rd TW2 5NP Ascot Racecourse Halloween And Fireworks Spectacular SAT 4 NOV Ascot Racecourse, High Street, Ascot SL5 7JX Collis Family Fireworks SAT 4 NOV Collis School, Fairfax Rd, Teddington TW11 9BS

Kempton Fireworks Night SAT 4 NOV Kempton Park Racecourse, Staines Rd, Sunbury TW16 5AQ 22nd Wimbledon Scout Group Grand Firework Display SAT 4 NOV Arthur Road, Motsur Park KT3 6LX The Anglers Fireworks Night SUN 5 NOV The Anglers Pub, Broom Rd, Teddington TW11 9NR Imber Court Fireworks Show SUN 5 NOV Ember Lane, East Molesey KT8 0BT Orleans Park School Fireworks Event SUN 5 NOV Orleans Park School, Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 3BB Richmond Annual Family Fireworks SUN 5 NOV Richmond Athletic Ground, Twickenham Road, TW9 2SF

For the most up to date fireworks listings and full details, go to www.familiesonline.co.uk

Crockford Bridge Farm celebrates the return of the Pumpkin Patch As Autumn approaches, the cheery sight of orange pumpkins ripening in the fields signals the start of the Pumpkin Patch at Crockford Bridge Farm in Addlestone. The Pumpkin Patch is open from October onwards for you to choose your perfect pumpkin from a huge selection grown on the farm. There are literally thousands of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, including white ghost pumpkins and warty spooky pumpkins − all perfect for Halloween. After choosing your pumpkin, chill out in the Ice Cream Parlour or stop at the tea shack for a warming hot drink or homemade cake. During half term there is also a pop up BBQ serving gourmet burgers and hot dogs! At half term (21 to 29 October), the Pumpkin patch comes alive with fun activities including apple bobbing, face painting, pumpkin

carving, fairground games and pop-up street food. This half term the Wonder Woods open and become home to the now-famous immersive theatre. Embark on a journey through this fun and quirky forest where you will be entertained by a cast of professional actors. Tickets are available to book online.

For more information, visit www.crockfordbridgefarm.co.uk

Light up your imagination at the Look Out Discovery Centre this half term Budding scientists will enjoy extra activities, such love visiting the Look as arts and crafts, Out Discovery Centre in storytelling and face Bracknell and with over painting, at no extra cost? 90 activities to choose Inside the centre, from, it has something inquisitive visitors will love for everyone, no matter the science and discovery the weather. activities. Children are This month, visit the Fire encouraged not just to and Light Show (until 7 touch, but to press, pull, January) which takes place at roll, wind up and discover weekends and in science in such a way Bracknell Forest school they don’t realise they are holidays (11am, 12pm, learning! 2pm and 3.15pm). The Popular activities include show is full of fantastic launching the hydrogen demonstrations to fuel your rocket, damming the imagination and don’t forget stream, building a giant to watch out for the tornado house and taking a picture of fire! The show is suitable of your shadow. for children aged 3 to 11 and If you step outside, you costs £1.95 per person, on can explore the 1,000 top of your entry fee. hectares of Swinley Forest For younger ones, why through walks and trails not come to the Woodland before stopping off at the Animals Toddler Day (11 popular adventure play For more information, visit vwww.kew.org and 12 October, 10am to area or keep warm with a 4pm) where visitors can hot drink from the cafe. For more information, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/look-out-discovery-centre familiesonline.co.uk

Families Upon Thames 29

WHAT’S ON & where EVERY WED DURING TERM TIME PANDEMONIUM AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS For Ages: 0-2 & 2-4 Cost: £5 A popular, drop-in musical workshop with plenty of fun and games, a brilliant way to introduce music to your children and to make new friends. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk EVERY WED MORNING PARENT AND BABY CINEMA AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Times: 11.30am Cost: £6.50 Screenings of the latest films for parents or carers with babies under one. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk EVERY SAT MORNING FAMILY CINEMA AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Times: 11am Cost: £5 per person Your favourite family films old and new, on the big screen. See website for details. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk UNTIL 29 OCT THE MAGIC GARDEN AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey KT8 9AU Cost: FREE with Palace Admission

local THEATRE POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com CHILD OF THE DIVIDE UNTIL 15 OCT A story of family, identity and belonging as a young boy’s destiny is changed forever when his fingers slip from his father’s hand during the move between India and the newly-formed Pakistan. Ages: 7-14 IN A NUTSHELL 6-8 OCT Follow Acorn as he embarks on an adventure that takes him to the edge of his world and beyond in this show for little ones, told with puppets and music. Ages: 3-6 MY BROTHER, MY SISTER AND ME 18 OCT TO 11 FEB There’s magic and mayhem in this playful new show about sibling relationships, inspired by conversations with young children about their own brothers and sisters. Ages: 2-5 FRIENDS FOR ALL 20-22 OCT A humorous and moving performance with rapping, dancing and cool video projections, exploring why being a little different can by a good thing after all! Ages: 5-11 LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD 25 TO 29 OCT A playful and refreshing take on this much-loved fairy tale from the Italian theatre company La Baracca. Ages: 3-8

30 Families Upon Thames

Enjoy a unique way to explore the palace’s past as you come face-to-face with mysterious mythical beasts, storm the battlements, besiege the towers and explore the secret grotto. 0844 482 7799 www.hrp.org.uk 4, 7, 11, 14 AND 18 OCT TINY EXPLORERS AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey KT8 9AU For Ages: 0-3 Time: sessions from 10.30am-3.30pm Cost: £6 Discover the fascinating stories of Hampton Court Palace in these multi-sensory workshops. Through music, movement and messy play, you and your little one will be transported into a magical world of stories. Booking required. 0844 482 7799 www.hrp.org.uk 6 TO 8 OCT FESTIVAL OF TREES AT RHS GARDEN WISLEY Woking GU23 6QB Celebrate Autumn as you enjoy a host of family activities including woodcraft demonstrations. 0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley 6 AND 20 OCT MUSEUM MONKEYS AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: 5 and under Time: 9.30-11am Cost: £5 per child, additional siblings £2.50 Singing, stories and crafts. Book in advance. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org

WATERMANS 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk TRÖLL 8 OCT Experience Iceland’s folk tales and settlement stories through the eyes of a young girl and her unusual friend from the mountains in this unmissable experience for the whole family. Ages: 3-6 THE MAGIC FISH 15 OCT A classic Indian tale retold through dance, storytelling and beatboxing for young, thinking minds. Ages: 5-9 TIDY UP 21 TO 22 OCT What could possibly go wrong in this very tidy dance-theatre performance that somehow gets messed up? Ages: 3-6 DOT 24 OCT Wonder at this choreographic playground that uses precise digital projections, the dancers’ bodies and music with light, colour and imagination to create this high-tech / lo-fi gem for children. Ages: 3+ 3 LITTLE PIGS 25 TO 27 OCT Building your own home is not as easy as it looks as you’ll soon find out in this show chock full of puppets, music, comedy and thrills. Ages: 2-7

7 OCT 15 MINUTES OF FUN AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: 5 and under Time: 1.30-3.30pm Enjoy a FREE family drop-in craft activity 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 7 AND 29 OCT AUTUMN COLOUR AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 2pm Meet at the Kiosk and enjoy a guided afternoon walk around Claremont looking at the trees in their autumn colours. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden 7 TO 31 OCT HALLOWEEN EVENTS AT CHESSINGTON GARDEN CENTRE Leatherhead Rd, Chessington KT9 2NG 01372 725638 www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk CREEPY MAZE Time: Selected Dates and Times Cost: £2 There are spooks and surprises at every turn as you try to escape the maze of trickery. HALLOWEEN CIRCUS Time: Selected Dates and Times Cost: £8 Cirque Normandies returns with a spectacular, all-new show hosted in a Halloween-themed,

RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7654 www.atgtickets.com JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT 10-14 OCT Join X-Factor winner Joe McElderry as he dons the coveted coat in this magical musical full of unforgettable songs. THE ROSE THEATRE 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL Box Office: 08444 821 556 www.rosetheatrekingston.org ÚNA GUITAR GIRL! SPOOKY AUTUMN SINGALONG 14 OCT Úna returns with more terrifying tunes for your little ghouls and boys who are encouraged to dress up in their Halloween costumes and join in the spooky fun using themed toys, percussion instruments and props. Ages: Under 6 AROUND THE WORLD IN EIGHTY DAYS 17 TO 22 OCT Join Phileas Fogg and his loyal valet, Passepartout, on this high-spirited escapade that includes six trains, five boats, four fights, three dances, two circus acts and an elephant! Ages: 7+

familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’S ON & where heated Big Top. Watch out for bats, a werewolf, comedy policemen, witches and more in an adventure sure to entertain the whole family. SPOOKY ZOO Time: Selected Dates and Times Cost: Adult £2.50 Child £3.50 Encounter, handle and have a photo taken with a variety of exotic reptiles in the Spooky Zoo enclosure. 8, 15, 22 AND 29 OCT JUNIOR PARK RUN AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB For Ages: 4-14 Time: 9-10am Enjoy a free timed run around the front lawn as part of the National Junior Parkrun series. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park 11 AND 12 OCT WOODLAND ANIMALS TODDLER DAY AT THE LOOK OUT DISCOVERY CENTRE Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell RG12 7QW Time: 10am-4pm Enjoy woodland animal-themed arts and crafts, storytelling and face painting, plus more than 90 hands-on science and discovery activities, all waiting to be pulled, pushed or prodded. 01344 354400 www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ thelookoutdiscoverycentre 14 AND 15 OCT DIWALI CRAFT WEEKEND AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 12-4pm Celebrate the Festival of Light at these drop in craft sessions. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park 20 TO 31 OCT HOWL’O’WEEN AT CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES RESORT Leatherhead Rd, Chessington KT9 2NE Time: 10am-8pm Cost: Normal Admission – book online for Early Bird Tickets, with prices starting at £28! Hair-raising fun for all the family can be enjoyed under the dark cloak of night. New attractions are Creepy Caves Unearthed, Chessington’s scariest attraction yet, plus Room on the Broom spooky story time for younger adventurers. Chessington also sees the daring return of Curse of the Lost Tomb and Trick or Treat Wood, for courageous little explorers, as well as rides in the dark and spooky animal shows. www.chessington.com 21 OCT FUNGI FORAY AT PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE Time: 11am and 2pm Cost: Adult £17 Child £12 Learn to identify the fascinating fungi that thrives in the landscape of Painshill. 01932 868 113 www.painshill.co.uk YOUNG ARCHAEOLOLGY CLUB AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: 8-16 Time: 11am and 2pm Cost: £5 per child Have a go at making some microliths for different purposes as you discover what happened in the middle of the stone age. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org familiesonline.co.uk

21 TO 29 OCT CREEPY CREATURES AT RHS GARDEN WISLEY Woking GU23 6QB Cost: Normal Admission, plus £4 per pumpkin Discover all there is to know about Creepy Creatures with crafts, planting seeds, a trail and more. Pumpkin carving will also be available on a pre-bookable workshop. 0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley HALLOWEEN AND PUMPKIN PATCH AT CROCKFORD BRIDGE FARM New Haw Road, Nr. Weybridge KT15 2BU Enjoy a week of fun activities and choose your perfect pumpkin just in time for Halloween. Plus, the farm’s Wonder Woods open for the popular immersive theatrical show. 01932 853886 www.crockfordbridgefarm.co.uk HALLOWEEN FUN AT HAM HOUSE Ham Street, Ham TW10 7RS Time: 10am-5pm Ghostly garden trail (£2 per trail) with spooky prize and themed art and craft activities. 020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house HALLOWE’EN PUMPKIN FESTIVAL AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 11am-4pm There are family crafts, activities and trails plus pumpkin carving in this Halloween-inspired event. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park SPOOKFEST AT LONDON MUSEUM OF WATER & STEAM Green Dragon Lane, Brentford TW8 0EN Learn about London’s watery past as you follow a gruesome word train and take a trip on the Ghost Train! Creepy crafts available too. 020 8568 4757 www.waterandsteam.org.uk TOTO’S RETURN TO OZ HALLOWEEN HALF-TERM TRAIL AT POLESDEN LACY Great Bookham, near Dorking RH5 6BD Cost: Normal Admission plus £3 per hero Journey over the rainbow as you join this wicked Halloween trail! 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey WIZARDS AND WITCHES WEEK AT BOCKETTS FARM Young St, Fetcham KT22 9BS Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Enjoy fun and freaky activities including a Quiz Trail, Creepy Craft Corner and Reptile Roadshow, where you’ll get the chance to meet awesome creepy crawlies up close! Plus, they’ll be hundreds of pumpkins on sale and amazing magic shows from the Wizard magician! 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

GHOSTLY TOURS IN THE DARK AT HAM HOUSE Ham Street, Ham TW10 7RS Time: 5-6pm Cost: £10 Find out about the resident ghost dog and other spooky sightings on one of these Terrible Terror Tours. 020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house PUMPKIN TRAIL AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 11am-4pm Cost: £4 plus Normal Admission Join a trail in the park to discover a yummy pumpkin recipe and then create some gorgeous autumn crafts to take home. Don’t forget to bring your own pumpkin. 020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park WILD HALLOWEEN CAMP AT PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE Ages: 8 to 13 Time: 9am to 4pm Cost: £40 per day Enjoy a wild half term with den building, woodland craft, campfires, treasure hunts and spooky adventures. 01932 868 113 www.painshill.co.uk

22 OCT AUTUMN FESTIVAL AT PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE Breathe in the autumn air and majestic colours of Painshill’s magical landscape and enjoy wine and food tasting, outdoor demonstrations, carriage rides and special children’s trails. 01932 868 113 www.painshill.co.uk

27 OCT HALLOWE’EN STORYTELLING AND SPOOKY WALK AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 4-5.30pm Cost: £1.50 plus Normal Admission listen to spooky stories in the play area, then steel your nerves for a sinister saunter around the garden. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden

23 TO 27 OCT HALLOWE’EN CRAFT WORKSHOPS AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 11am-1pm Cost: £1.50 plus Normal Admission Make all sorts of Gothic-themed spooky crafts. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden

23 TO 29 OCT AWESOME AUTUMN AT HATCHLANDS PARK East Wing Hatchlands, East Clandon, Guildford GU4 7RT Time: 11am-4pm Discover fun Autumn facts on this trail through the parkland. 01483 222482 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park 24 AND 26 OCT AUTUMN HALF TERM FUN AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: 5-12 Craft activities for children to enjoy this half term. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 26 OCT PUMPKIN CARVING AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 11am-1pm Cost: £1.50 plus Normal Admission Get creative and carve a spooky pumpkin to scare your friends. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden

❦❦❦❦❦❦ Families Upon Thames 31

SPOOKY

NEW STORY TIME

OUR SCARIEST W E YET ATTRACTION N

20 - 31 OCTOBER TH

4 EXTRA

ATTRACTIONS FOR ALL THE FAMILY PLUS RIDES IN THE DARK

Room on the Broom © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2001 – Macmillan Children’s Books. Creepy Caves Unearthed is an additional £6 entry.

FROM £28 AT CHESSINGTON.COM