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THE BENEFITS OF SINGING FOR CHILDREN PLUS: Playing with Food Books Out & about

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T H E E S S E N T I A L M AG A Z I N E F O R PA R E N T S O F

Issue 40 November/December 2017 C H I L D R E N AG E D 0–T E E N S

For families living in the Bromley & Bexley boroughs, Dartford & the

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NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Families London–Kent Borders Magazine or Twitter @familieslkb

In this issue...

ISSUE 40: NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2017

4 Family Have a pain free Christmas 7 Playing with food at V&A Museum of Childhood’s interactive Edible Exhibition 8 Books for the Season Winter is the perfect season to hunker down and bury your nose in a good book (or two)!

9 The Gifts of Christmas

9 The Gifts of Christmas Finding the perfect present 11 The Benefits of Singing for Children Why we should be encouraging our children to sing more

DILLON LAW LLP

FAMILY LAW & EMPLOYMENT LAW

12 Out & About The best of What’s On near you this Festive season

Merry Christmas all at Families M from agazine

Front cover: © Bigstock

Editor: Mima Walia 07792 006546 editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk

Design: Kevin Smith

Families London-Kent Borders Magazine is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families London-Kent Borders are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London-Kent Borders. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

SPECIALISING IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: • Divorce and Finances • Children • Child protection • Pre-nuptial Agreements • Co-habitation disputes • Co-habitation and Separation Agreements • Domestic Violence and Injunctions • Civil Partnership • Employment law issues

FREE 30 MINUTE CONSULTATION

DILLON LAW LLP Ground Floor, 51 Tweedy Road Bromley, Kent BR1 3NH 020 8460 0174 • office@dillonlaw.co.uk • www.dillonlaw.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017

Family

TO LITIGATE OR NOT TO LITIGATE – THAT IS THE QUESTION?

Make sure you have a pain free Christmas As Christmas approaches and we all become embroiled with Christmas shopping it is very easy to neglect ourselves. Long hours shopping for presents can leave us feeling tired, full of back pain, hip pain, knee pain and generally lethargic. It is so important at this time of year, perhaps even more so, to continue/start respecting ourselves, our minds and bodies by continuing with our exercise regime if we have one, and if not to start exercising intelligently if we don’t have such a routine.

In most cases, parties can often agree relevant issues between themselves when it comes to their divorce or separation – at Dillon Law they always recommend this course of action. However in some cases, parties find themselves in the undesirable position when an agreement cannot be reached, normally in respect of children and finances. Dillon Law always try to avoid this scenario and will try and settle matters fairly and amicably for both parties, however sometimes, this is not possible and then unfortunately litigation normally follows. In such cases, we would suggest issuing proceedings at the earliest possible juncture to avoid wasting further costs. If an amicable and fair settlement cannot be reached, there is unfortunately no alternative.

Pilates is an intelligent method of exercise as it helps to increase your proprioception, postural awareness, your strength and flexibility and allows you to really focus on you which in turn brings about relaxation. It’s gentle and challenging at the same time, but if you’d like something with a little more cardio why not try our bootybarre or HIP Pilates (high intensity power) classes to take your fitness to that next level.

For example, when children matters cannot be agreed, and if one party is still refusing to facilitate contact with the other, and negotiations and mediation has failed - how can the denied parent maintain contact with their child – at that stage, the only recourse is to issue Court proceedings. Again, another scenario, when proceedings can be necessary would be when two parties purchase a property together and one party leaves, and then tries to realise their equity, but the party in occupation refuses to deal with the manner in a civilised fashion leaving the other party with no other course of action, but to apply to Court. This list of examples is not exhaustive - the Court has a wide ranging power in respect of family law matters, and in their experience, if you have to litigate, do it. Otherwise and for example, you could be denied a meaningful relationship with your child.

Do contact me now at ismini@ isminiphillips.com or call me on 07711 906750 for more info on all my classes at the Studio, High Street, Chislehurst

They understand Court proceedings are expensive but can offer cost effective ways and solutions to make the impossible happen! Caroline O’Donnell [partner] Dillon Law LLP 020 8460 0174 Ground Floor, 51 Tweedy Road, Bromley, BR1 2QJ Ismini Phillips - Familys Magazine advert AW 2710914_AW.pdf

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NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Education

EXPLORE LEARNING ARE HELPING YOU MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR RECENT SCHOOL PARENT’S MEETINGS! So you’ve been to a meeting with your child’s teacher and you’ve got an overview of how your child is progressing. But what do you do next to help? Discuss with your child the feedback from their teacher, they may already be aware of what they need to work on but if they don’t, talk about it. Set a goal together of something they would like to achieve based on their feedback and aim to complete this by the end of next term. Make a plan together about how they are going to get there. For example: You’re told they give up every time they have to learn something new, especially times tables. The goal you come up with together is to have a can-do attitude. Steps to getting there could be taking a new set of tables and learning them in small batches. Praise them for the ones they have got right alongside highlighting when they are being positive towards their learning so they know what kind of attitude is expected. If you’ve set any goals with the teacher, then plan a time to review these. Depending on how the teacher likes to work this could

be an email, call or face to face catch up 6-8 weeks after the initial meeting. Review how things are going and make changes if needed. You may come away from a meeting and realise you’ve forgotten something or you don’t understand how the school is reporting on progress. Contact the school if you still have questions, or look on their website as you should find a wealth of information on there. Ask others for help, don’t worry if you don’t understand something or want to know what others are doing. Lots of people will be in the same position so talk to fellow parents for advice. Alternatively, there are some great advice websites like www.theschoolrun.co.uk

and www.oxfordowl.co.uk or if you have a tutor, talk to them. At Explore Learning our tutors always help parents when they need advice and will take into account your child’s recent reports and feedback when tailoring their learning. Never be afraid to ask, there is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your child’s learning! www.explorelearning.co.uk

We’re giving them the confidence to tackle the new school year fearlessly!

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

www.familiesonline.co.uk NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017

Sports

BRAND NEW CLASSES - MULTISPORTS AT WEALD OF KENT

MultiSports at Weald of Kent is a brand new venue opening under the successful and long running Multisports Sutton and Cheam franchise, a part of The MultiSports Group. Their classes are entirely focussed on developing children’s sporting confidence, sportsmanship and team working skills. Throughout a single 12 week term in the main school (ages 6 – 16) every child will take part in 6 different team and individual sports and weekly team building challenges. All our staff are fully qualified and experienced teachers, currently teaching in prep/secondary schools in the local area. For the younger ones, we run Little Sporties, which are one and a half hour classes aimed at introducing children to the basics of a variety of fundamental sporting skills. The emphasis is on developmental

activities which will help to improve their coordination, speed, agility, balance and cooperation skills. Parachute games, playground activities and skills circuits also feature. These classes are a great introduction to sport. Their initial Discovery Block, which is running every Saturday morning throughout November, is the perfect opportunity to come and see what we are all about, and gives your child the opportunity to see just how much fun they will have at MultiSports at Weald of Kent. These sessions are offered as individual sessions or as a block of 4 weeks. Children receive a free MultiSports schools t-shirt when they sign up for the whole block.

WHERE? At Weald of Kent Sevenoaks Annexe, Seal Hollow Road, Sevenoaks WHEN? Saturday 4th, 11th, 19th and 25th November 2017 Main School (Ages 6 – 16) Saturdays 9:30am – 12:30pm Little Sporties (Ages 4 – 6) Saturdays 9:00am – 10:30am OR 10:45am – 12:15pm

More information? 01293 774051 www.multisportsweald.co.uk weald@multisports.co.uk Facebook: - MultiSports Sutton and Cheam or MultiSports Weald

The MultiSports Group Change your game

MultiSports

Amersham&Chorleywood Sutton at Weald&ofCheam Kent Weekend sports for boys and girls aged 4 - 16 of all abilities

Tel: 0844 012933350450 774051 www.multisports.co.uk ENROLLING NOW AUTUMN TERM WORKSHOP FORFOR OUR OUR NOVEMBER DISCOVERY BLOCK AND JANUARY 2018 ENROLLING NOW SUMMER WORKSHOP IN JULY AND AUTUMN TERM IN SEPTEMBER

Extensive variety of sports – Professional coaches – Ofsted registered - Childcare vouchers

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Exhibition

Kids given ‘greens light’ to play with their food at V&A Museum of Childhood’s interactive Edible Exhibition

he V&A Museum of Childhood is encouraging kids to experiment with their food and eat their greens with the world’s first interactive edible exhibition. Kids can be fussy eaters and only 8% eat their recommended 5-a-day. They also have around 30,000 taste buds - three times as many as adults, which can make trying new foods an intense and sometimes unpleasant experience. With this in mind, the museum created Edible Exhibition to encourage kids through play to be bolder in the range of foods they try and, hopefully, accept. The exhibition began with an interactive workshop held in October, which challenged 100 children to invent their ultimate food fantasies - with the help of culinary wizards Bompas & Parr. The results included glow in the dark ice cream made from carrots, edible bubbles made from broccoli and cucumber, and a parsnip tornado. Six winning designs, all created by the children, were then turned into reality.

Illustrator Rob Flower, represented by Blink Art, brought the edible exhibition to life with a series of posters and invitations that were also edible, each with its own unique flavour. Every aspect of the printing process - from the edible paper to the multiflavored inks - was custom-made for the exhibition in collaboration with Bompas & Parr. The posters then went on display at the museum and there were postcards for visitors to take away. Bompas & Parr, said: “For us at Bompas & Parr, the kid’s creativity was a real goad to making healthy foods really compelling. We hope the project inspires countless others to hit the kitchen and create wonders for the tongue.”

Museum of Childhood, said: “It was wonderful to see how children’s imagination was inspired by the idea of creating a culinary display and then their response to the final creations, constructed by the team at Bompas & Parr.” The Edible Exhibition was hosted at The V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, London in October and developed with ad agency AMV BBDO. Alex Grieve and Adrian Rossi, Executive Creative Directors at AMV BBDO, add: “We all try and engage people by making ads as interactive as possible. These are the most interactive ads ever. What other ads can you taste, smell and eat? And keep kids healthy at the same time?” Neil Clarke and Jay Phillips, Creative Directors at AMV BBDO, said: “It’s not every day that you get to create an exhibition in one of London’s top museums, using only food and kids’ imagination. It’s what makes this industry great. Working with amazing clients also helps.” For more info go to: www.vam.ac.uk/moc/ or visit them V&A Museum of Childhood, Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA

www.familiesonline.co.uk NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017

0-2 YEARS

Twinkle Twinkle ABC by Barney Saltzberg Phaidon RRP £8.95 And we begin with this artful and melodic board book that mixes and matches possibly the two most sung baby songs on the planet (well, your particular parental planet at any rate) accompanied by a banjo, a growling bear and a pirouetting cow (of course!) Perfect for winding down and instilling the irresistible idea in those little minds that bedtime means books.

The Snowbear by Sean Taylor & Claire Alexander Frances Lincoln RRP £11.99 Iggy and Martina head off into the snow to play but somehow they wander off just a little too far and after all their hard work getting cold hands whilst patting the snow into shape, who do you think comes to their rescue?

BOOKS FOR THE

SEASON By Justine Crow

As a bookseller, one of the least favourite phrases that I hear from passing parents is “No. You’ve got too many books already.” What sort of a message is that? I mean, those very same mums and dads also grumble that their kids just aren’t interested in reading any more. No excuses - Winter is the perfect season for hunkering down and burying noses, so here are some suggestions for filling your youngsters boots with words.

Claude, the daft dog with the knack for being in the wrong place at the right time, has done much to encourage early readers in these pocket sized stories with lots of pictures alongside clear un-daunting text. Our eponymous hero is back and wearing a certain festive person’s trousers, which are just little too big (ho ho ho!) and is causing mayhem with his best friend dear old cuddly Sir Bobblysock.

9-11 YEARS

Father Christmas & Me by Matt Haig The third in the tinsel decked trilogy by a brilliant thinker and writer of books for all ages, in which we meet Amelia and her newly adoptive parents, none other than Father and Mary Christmas (who wouldn’t want them for a mum and dad?). But wait, everything we love about this very special time of year is under threat from a certain jealous Easter Bunny and his rabbit henchmen. Yikes!

Frances Lincoln RRP £14.99

Now that you’ve warmed up the vocal chords above, everyone can enjoy this new sound edition of last year’s sumptuous hit picture book for pre-schoolers. Not too loud though, or – whispers - you’ll wake the baby.

The Bear & the Piano Sound Book by David Litchfield

For fifty years children have been entertained by the antics of Lowly Worm, Hilda Hippo and Huckle Cat and I think the deep affection for the Busytown stories persists because they convey diversity, combined with slapstick and familiarity. Everything and everyone is on the go here in aeroplanes, umpteen diggers and buses, and of course Mr Frumble’s Pickle Car. Just don’t get a ticket from Sergeant Murphy!

Hodder RRP £5.99

Canongate RRP £14.99

3-5 YEARS

Richard Scarry’s Best Treasury Ever by Richard Scarry Harpercollins RRP £20

Santa Claude by Alex T Smith

The Book of Dust by Philip Pullman David Fickling RRP £20

6-8 YEARS

Scaredy Cat, Scaredy Cat by Phil Earle Hodder RRP £6.99

I have thoroughly enjoyed the barmy adventures of the inhabitants of Storey Street and recommend the previous three titles that can be read in any order – upside down.. inside out.. etc. For our final visit we meet young resident Kay Catt, a timid soul with much to worry about. Enter Wilf Wilkinson, the weirdest pensioner ever to set foot in the street. Never mind a flat cap and cardi, this old codger has a pointy hat. Just like a.. um.. wizard?

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Set ten years before the Northern Lights, we meet a new character, Malcolm, who navigates the Thames in his canoe ‘La Belle Sauvage.’ One day he discovers that the priory across the water has a visitor, an infant named Lyra… In a hundred years time, should bookshops still exist, long after flash-in-the-pan celeb authors have been forgotten, Pullman will be on the shelf right next to the great storytellers such as Dickens and Swift. If we do our job right as parents now, our children’s children will still have their noses buried in really good books like this. You can never have too many of them. Justine Crow is co-founder of the famous South London bookshop ‘Bookseller Crow on the Hill’ based in Crystal Palace. As well as being a blogger and reviewer, parent of three and qualified swimming teacher, she also co-authored The Little Book of Nits published by Bloomsbury.

THE GIFTS OF

CHRISTMAS

DIVINE GIFTS

from Jack Harvey London

Searching for a Christmas gift that oozes elegance and sophistication? Then look no further than Jack Harvey London! This divine collection spells luxury, with beautiful jewellery and long-lasting scented candles, room diffusers and sprays, all delivered with a deluxe monogrammed JH gift bag, with complimentary UK standard delivery available on many products. The carefully selected scents come in two ranges, the London Collection and the more contemporary Oud & Luxe Collection, and last month, Jack Harvey was announced as the signature scent at London Hilton on Park Lane. The jewellery makes a perfect gift too and we think every girl would love to add one of the dainty bracelets to their Christmas wish list! Jack Harvey London was created in memory of the founder’s sister who sadly died from breast cancer and a percentage of the sales goes to Breast Cancer Research and other charities. Prices start at £35. To order, visit www.myjackharvey.com

CHOOSING THE RIGHT GIFT IS AN ART... #ThoughtfulForever

Aloe Blossom Herbal Tea Promote inner-calm and wellbeing with this soothing, refreshing and caffeine-free herbal tea. It’s naturally low in calories and delicious served warm or with ice as a refreshing alternative. Each pack contains twentyfive individually foil-wrapped bags. Product code: 200 25 individually foil-wrapped bags Forever Bee Honey Since ancient times, honey has been revered for its healthful and nutritional properties. This all-natural, delicious sweetener is loaded with nature’s goodness and is perfect for replacing processed sugar in your diet. Add a dash to your Aloe Blossom Herbal Tea or simply eat it by the spoon! Product code: 207 | 500g

Advanced Skincare System In the box: Infinite by Forever Hydrating Cleanser Infinite by Forever Firming Serum Infinite by Forever Firming Complex Infinite by Forever Restoring Crème. You might think you know aloe – but you’ve never seen it perform like this! Infinite by Forever targets ageing from the inside out and the outside in with revolutionary formulas designed to tone and firm the skin, reduce the appearance of ne lines and wrinkles and supplement inner skin beauty support with vitamin C which contributes to normal skin collagen formation for the normal function of skin. Product code: 553 Give them what they really want with these classic thoughtful Forever gifts. www.forevertogo.co.uk

EXTRA SPECIAL GIFTS

JOY TO THE WORD

Mrs Wordsmith’s hilariously illustrated words is a gift that lasts a lifetime.

There are 10,000 words that matter for academic success and Mrs Wordsmith is illustrating all of them with the Hollywood artist behind Madagascar. Their research-based vocabulary programme is called the 10,000 Word Journey. Up first is the Storytelling Journey, a 6-month subscription programme to learn up to 1,500 narrative words. Buy upfront for £105, or opt for the 6-month subscription for £19.95 a month. www.mrswordsmith.com

If you are looking for a gift idea for a special occasion then Ribbonz and Threads will have the perfect gift. By personalising the gift it gives it the extra special touch. From soft toys, to T Shirts, to Christmas decorations there are plenty to choose from. This Christmas the Baubles are a great idea. They can have a name or message put on it, and can be opened to put a little gift or chocolate inside. The Santa sacks would look amazing under you tree or by the fireplace. Visit www.ribbonzandthreads.com or Ribbonz and Threads on Facebook for more ideas.

www.familiesonline.co.uk NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017

Clubs and Classes

THE GIFT OF SWIMMING Aquakids has been running for nearly 25 years and has an excellent reputation for delivering high quality swim lessons. It is an independently run swim school so every child is known to us and we care about their progress and wellbeing in the pool.

ADULT & CHILD (BABY & TODDLER) SWIMMING LESSONS Green Street Green Primary School Vine Road, Orpington, BR6 6DT Entrance to pool via High Street Thursday Mornings 9.30am, 10am, 10.30am and 11am Saturday Afternoons 3.45pm - 4.15pm Ages 6 months - 3 1⁄2 years • • Qualified and Experienced Instructor in the water • Fun and purposeful lessons • Educative lessons teaching aquatic skills alongside numbers, colours and language skills • Focus on teaching the adult how to best handle their swimmer in the water to develop effective family splash time

AQUAKIDS NEW SWIMMING LESSONS Green Street Green Primary School Vine Road, Orpington, BR6 6DT Entrance to pool via High Street Tuesdays 4.30pm-6.30pm Saturdays 1.30pm-3.30pm Bickley Park School 24 Page Heath Lane, Bickley, BR1 2DS Wednesday classes starting in 2018 Saturdays 9.30am-12.30pm Sundays 10am-1pm Ages 3 1⁄2 and upwards • Small classes • One to one lessons available • • • •

Q ualified and Experienced Teachers in the water P ools perfect for beginners and improvers C aring approach - we know every swimmers needs and ability M ore than just swimming; teaching social, cognitive as well as swim skills and strokes. www.aquakids.co.uk

Bishop Challoner School Shortlands A Catholic Independent School for Girls & Boys 3 -18 Years

2 O sp of h 0 y ver ok ig e e s h q ar w ua s im li le ty ss on s

KID

CHR

FISH

ES FROM

NEW LESSONS at Bickley Park and Green Street Green including baby and toddler lessons

Book online now to avoid disappointment

SaTaster Day: Thursday 30th November, 1.30pm Application deadline: 12th December 2017 Assessments: Saturday 13th January 2018

Swimming is an essential life skill - so make sure you get it right!

Welcoming All Faiths

Visit our website: www.aquakids.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @aquakidsuk Connect with us on Facebook: Aquakids

admissions@bishopchallonerschool.com

Swimming Lessons that last a lifetime 10

4+ Admissions

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Clubs & Classes Travel

THE BENEFITS OF

SINGING FOR CHILDREN

hat makes us want to sing? It’s often something we all do without even being aware of it - whether it’s humming along to the radio or belting out a classic in the shower. You’ll find many a teenager locked in their bedrooms with YouTube mimicking their idols or younger children loudly singing along to the latest Disney blockbuster. But there’s more to singing than meets the eye - it has many positive side effects. Singing can benefit everyone - physically, emotionally and socially - and this is particularly true for children.

When I teach a class full of children (or a choir) to sing they rarely leave looking miserable. Much as I’d like to think this is due to my electric personality and love for life, I know that really it’s down to the singing. It has made the endorphins start to flow, increasing the brain activity and making everyone feel good. Depression and anxiety are, sadly, two words that have been all too often linked with children. But a recent Government paper on the importance of the arts to our wellbeing (2017) shows new evidence that the arts really can keep people well, reduce stress and anxiety, increase positive feelings and improve lives. Being part of a choir can give children a feeling of belonging, and help them to make friends. They learn the importance of listening and improve their speaking, communication skills and vocabulary. It is good to know that it also

takes their mind off the day’s troubles and improves mental alertness. Finding a safe and encouraging space to sing (like a local choir) can give children the opportunity to feel energised and enhance their mood. Physically, it can improve children’s posture and also their breathing by increasing their aerobic capacity. Emotionally, it can increase selfconfidence, evoke positive emotions and give them something to look forward to. Socially, it can help them to make new friends and provide them with a sense of community. Singing can be a power of good and at the Bromley Youth Music Trust, we’re working hard to make sure that this can benefit everyone whatever their age - from 5 to 105. For more information, or to find a choir close to you, please get in touch - sseeney@ bymt.co.uk . Stephanie Seeney has spent many years as a professional classical singer and teacher, and is now the Head of Singing at the Bromley Youth Music Trust.

www.familiesonline.co.uk NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017

Out & About there’s crafts for the kids too, English Heritage members Free.

THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD

Also 19 November

VENTURES TO THE LYRIC THEATRE

24 NOV 2017

Chartwell Christmas Market The Gruffalo’s Child © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2004 - Macmillan Children's Books

The Gruffalo’s Child will follow in her father’s giant footsteps with a Christmas season in the West End! It’s a big step and will she be brave enough? Find out for yourselves by joining her at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue from 22 November to 7 January in a thrilling production, with a new set and costumes, by internationally acclaimed theatre company Tall Stories. The hit musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s award-winning sequel to The Gruffalo (published by Macmillan Children’s Books) is full of songs, laughs and lots of fun for children aged three and up and their families. Enjoy this magical, musical adaptation which sees the Gruffalo’s Child ignoring her father’s warning as she tiptoes out into the snow on a wild and windy night! After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist… does he? Tickets start at £15, with a family ticket for four costing £66. For more information, visit www.tallstories.org.uk or www.gruffaloschildlive.com

11 NOVEMBER Ruxley Manor Christmas Grotto

Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Maidstone Road, Sidcup, Kent, DA14 5BQ. 020 8300 0084. www.ruxley-manor.co.uk

Take a very special journey through the magical Christmas Grotto, where you will be greeted by the Elves and Mother Christmas who will guide you through our enchanting Christmas experience. Play a fun bowling game, make reindeer feed, decorate a wooden toy decoration, meet the man himself and receive a present. Booking essential. Until 24 Dec 2017 (Selected Dates)

The Reindeer Grotto

Meet lots of other animals including goats, ducklings, donkeys, rabbits and exotic pets. Plus enjoy the straw bale ball pit and the (fake) snow play area, bouncy castle and lots more. Weekdays: 10am till 4pm Weekends: 10am till 5pm / See website for price details. Until 23 Dec 2017

The popular Chartwell market returns to kick start your festive shopping. You can also get stuck into samples in the shop, then stop off for a warming mulled wine and minced pie in the cafe. 10am - 4pm / Free event, normal admission charges apply.

25 NOVEMBER Chiddingstone Castle Christmas Fair

Chiddingstone Castle, Hill Hoath Road, Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7AD. 01892 870347. www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

Annual festive Christmas Fair with more than 60 stalls. Refreshments will be available from the Tea Rooms and the grounds of the Castle will be open for a peaceful stroll to the Victorian Orangery or around

WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO...

16 NOVEMBER The Wealden Times Midwinter Fair

The Hop Farm, Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, Kent, TN12 6PY. www.wealdentimes.co.uk/events

A stylish shopping experience with 220+ handpicked exhibitors’ stands filling seven heated, joined-up marquees. 9am – 4.30pm. Discounted tickets available in advance via website.

The Reindeer Centre, Capralama Farm, Pluckley Road, Bethersden, Kent, TN26 3EQ. 01233 659338 www.reindeercentre.co.uk

Until 18 November 2017

For a pre-Christmas treat that’s as magical as the day itself, visit the famous Reindeer Grotto. View some of the pet reindeers, then meet Father Christmas in his cosy cabin.

Home of Charles Darwin - Down House, Luxted Road, Downe, Kent, BR6 7JT. 01689 859119. www. english-heritage.org.uk

up-close look at some of our hidden gems with our conservator, enjoy a garden talk and short tour of some of Darwin’s experiments, and

National Trust Chartwell, Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1PS, 01732 868381. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

NOVEMBER

Origin Weekend

Hear about the life and stories of Charles Darwin, get an

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

AWFUL AUNTIE When Stella sets off to visit London with her parents, Lord and Lady Saxby, she has no idea her life is in danger! Waking up three months later, only her Aunt Alberta can tell Stella what has happened. But not everything Aunt Alberta tells her turns out to be true and Stella quickly discovers she’s in for the fight of her life against her very own Awful Auntie! From the award-winning producers of Gangsta Granny comes the world premiere of David Walliams’ amazing tale of frights, fights and friendship, featuring a very large owl, a very small ghost and a very Awful Auntie! The Orchard Theatre, Dartford 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk Wed 7 – Sun 11 February | 10:30am, 11am, 2:30pm, 7pm

Out & About

the lake. 10am - 4pm

A Natural Christmas Decoration Making Home of Charles Darwin - Down House, Luxted Road, Downe, Kent, BR6 7JT. 01689 859119. www. english-heritage.org.uk

See how Victorian house staff would have celebrated Christmas and join us in the Butler’s Pantry of Down House for festive craft making using natural foliage found in the garden. From winter stems, to holly and pine cones, weave your magic as we help you create small seasonal items for your home. Event suitable for 12 yrs + Also 26 November

1 DECEMBER Christmas Garden Trail

Hall Place, Bourne Road, Bexley, DA5 1PQ. 020 8303 7777. www.bexleyheritagetrust.org.uk

Mother Christmas has baked an entire gingerbread family. Find them all in the gardens to get her recipe. 10 - 4pm, £2.50 per trail (includes small prize). Pay on the day.

2 DECEMBER

Kent & East Sussex Railway Santa Specials Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterdon Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE. 01580 765 155. www.kesr.org.uk

Take a magical steam train journey to meet Santa this Christmas on the popular Santa Special trains. Booking essential. See Website for full details. Until 24 Dec 2017 (Selected Dates)

Narnia Christmas Grotto Penshurst Place, Penshurst, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG. 01892 870307. www.penshurstplace.com

Step through the Wardrobe and into Christmas as we transport you back to the magical world of Narnia to meet a very important man, waiting in his sleigh. Tickets sold online only and include craft activities, a candy cane, a playground trail and a wrapped gift from Father Christmas. Until 23 December

Father Christmas at The Hop Farm The Hop Farm, Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, Kent, TN12 6PY. 01622 872068. www.thehopfarm.co.uk

EVENTS AT HEVER CASTLE

Hever Road, Nr Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7NG. 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

Christmas at the Castle (A history of Christmas carols) 25 November to 24 December

Walk through the rooms of the Castle adorned with beautiful decorations and welcoming log fires, discover the ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ trail and wander through the illuminated gardens as dusk falls. Each weekend and daily from selected dates ride the carousel and enjoy vintage fairground stalls (£1 per go), meet characters along the trail, hug a husky and take your photo as a memento (suggested £2 donation towards Siberian Husky Welfare Association) and children can join a free craft workshop to make an angel. Children who have not booked to visit Father Christmas in his Grotto may get the chance to meet him in the Toy Workshop (16, 17, 21, 22 and 23 December). Kids will have the opportunity to visit him on a first come first served basis and will receive an ageappropriate gift. Tickets cost £8.00 and can only be purchased in the grounds on the day.

Winter Walks

27 December to 2 January Wrap up warm and blow away the cobwebs with winter walks in the stunning Hever Castle gardens. The Castle and gardens are open daily from 27 December – 1 January for those looking to recharge their batteries after the hustle and bustle of Christmas. Visitors pay for Gardens Only entry and get Castle entry free, making it a great value day out for all the family. www.hevercastle.co.uk

Experience a Christmas adventure with

Bluewater’s magical Santa’s Grotto and outdoor ice rink It may only be November, but tickets are now on sale for the magical Santa’s Grotto at Bluewater, located by the beautiful lakes at the West Village.

As little ones wait excitedly to meet Santa, Mr. Crumble, the Christmas Chef, will greet them at the entrance of the enchanting log cabin. Children will become little elf helpers before being called upon to help the Christmas Chef in his kitchen before they embark on a journey through the grotto. As part of the experience, children will create their very own tree decoration to take home before meeting the big man himself. Each child will receive a lovely soft toy from Santa and photos can be purchased upon leaving the Grotto. You can also take a trip to Bluewater’s spectacular outdoor ice rink, located next to Santa’s Grotto. Perfect for all the family to enjoy, there are seal shaped skating aids for kids, Bob skates for those who need to be steady on the ice and skate lessons for anyone hoping to whirl, glide, skate and slide around the huge sparkling Christmas tree! Tickets for Bluewater’s magical Santa’s Grotto and outdoor ice rink are available to book now at bluewater.co.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017

Out & About

Meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto and enjoy his workshop with lots of fun Christmas activities taking place. The Father Christmas experience includes: Visit with Father Christmas, magical grotto experience, meet his jolly helpers, a Christmas gift, a printed photo per group, write a letter to Father Christmas, a balloon model. Visit the website for more info.

The Boise Family Trail At Christmas National Trust Emmetts Garden, Ide Hill, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 6BA. 01732 868381 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ emmetts-garden

The Boise family have misplaced their Christmas presents, can you help them to find them around the garden. Daily Until Sun 3 January 2018

Until 23rd December (Selected Dates)

Meet Santa at Kent Life Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3AU. 01622 763936 www.kentlife.org.uk

Come along and join in the festive fun. Jump on board our Land Train driven by the head elf and hear the Christmas tales, don’t forget to grab your chance to meet Santa in his magical grotto and take home a special gift. Until 24th December 2017 (Selected Dates)

You are invited to the biggest Royal Ball of the year as a sumptuous production of Cinderella comes to The Orchard Theatre. Starring Louie Spence as Dandini, Michelle Collins as The Wicked Stepmother, Jayne Wisener as Cinderella and Phil Butler as Buttons, don’t miss this year’s unmissable Christmas treat packed full of laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning special effects, beautiful costumes and plenty to boo and hiss at.

Father Christmas in Kent at the Tunbridge Wells Ice Rink Calverley Grounds, Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1BT. www.fatherchristmasinkent.co.uk

Father Christmas and his friendly elves will be welcoming families visiting Tunbridge Wells ice rink. Each personalised family visit will allow plenty of time to talk to Father Christmas before children choose an age appropriate gift and have their photograph taken with Father Christmas as a family memento of their visit. The mounted photograph, children’s gift and visit is included in the ticket . Booking essential. Until 24th December 2017 (Selected Dates)

With over 30,000 theatregoers attending pantomime at The Orchard Theatre each festive season it’s never too early to book! Packed with all of the traditional pantomime ingredients we know you expect, Cinderella will feature laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses. Join Cinders as she goes from rags-toriches, outwits her very ugly sisters and meets her dashing Prince Charming. Expect pumpkins and mice, carriages and horses, glitz, glamour, beautiful dresses, comedy and of course a glass slipper! With generous discounts for groups, concessions and special rates for schools available for selected performances, book your seats today. Sign Language Interpreted Performance (SLIP) - Wed 13 December 7pm Relaxed Performance - Thu 14 December 2pm (Specially adapted performance for those with autistic spectrum conditions) Audio Described - Sun 31 December 1pm SAT 9 - SUN 31 DECEMBER 2017 The Orchard Theatre, Dartford www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas weekend National Trust Ightham Mote, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT. 01732 810378. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ightham-mote

Father Christmas is visiting us and will be handing out little gifts to good children, and there will be local produce stalls to get those Christmas gifts. Festive music will resonate throughout the rooms to add to the atmosphere. Also 3 Dec 2017

ADAPTED FROM JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER’S AWARD-WINNING PICTURE BOOK

HHHHH ‘Everything good children’s theatre should be’ The List

22 NOV 2017 7 JAN 2018 gruffaloschildlive.com

ORCHARD THEATRE LAUNCHES CINDERELLA, THIS YEAR’S FAIRY GODMOTHER OF ALL PANTOMIMES!

Out & About

3 DECEMBER

15 DECEMBER

Woodlands Farm Trust, Welling DA16 3RP. 020 8319 8900. www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

National Trust Ightham Mote, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0NT, 01732 810378. www.nationaltrust. org.uk/ightham-mote/whats-on

Woodlands Farm Trust Christmas Fair

CIRQUE BERSERK!

Christmas carols in the courtyard

Come along to our Christmas Fair. There will be stalls to purchase Christmas gifts, mulled wine, as well as children’s trails and crafts. There will also be a chance to meet Father Christmas. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.

10 DECEMBER Farm Nativity

Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3AU. 01622 763936 www.kentlife.org.uk

Join in with our carol singers in the atmospheric courtyard of the house. Enjoy a warm glass of mulled wine on arrival, then sing along with the choir in the medieval courtyard. NB: This is an outdoor event so please dress warmly, £9.50 per person. Booking essential call 01732 811314. Also 22 December 2017

16 DEC 2017

Woodland Christmas Grotto

Experience live Nativity scenes with the farm’s own farmyard animal, plus join in with the traditional Christmas caroling as you are walking around. All children are encouraged to dress up and be part of the nativity, to give you some ideas they could always use more angels, wise men, guards, farmyard animals and if you’re feeling very imaginative they could use a camel! Join the fun from 3pm.

Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, Sevenoaks, TN13 3DH. 01622 662012. www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Come to Tyland Barn and visit Santa in his woodland themed grotto. A great experience for families and ideal for younger children who are meeting Santa for the first time. Every child plus their family will have a 5 minute (approx) session meeting Santa and each paying child will receive a small gift.

PRIOR TO WEST END - BRITAIN’S BIGGEST THEATRE-CIRCUS SPECTACULAR! NOW IN ITS FIFTH THRILLING YEAR! Showcasing the finest in traditional circus thrills and skills, Cirque Berserk! celebrates the 250th anniversary of the invention of circus by bringing this treasured form of live entertainment bang up-todate in a jaw-dropping spectacular created especially for th e theatre. Combining contemporary cirque-style artistry with adrenalinefuelled stunt action, this astoundingly talented international troupe includes over thirty jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, drummers, daredevil stuntmen and of course the award-winning clown, Tweedy. Featuring the world’s most hair-raising circus act - the legendary motorcycle ‘Globe of Death’. Don’t miss it! The Orchard Theatre, Dartford Wed 31 January - Sat 3 February | 2pm, 5pm, 7:30pm Ticket Office 01322 220000 Book online at www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

WINTER CONCERT The Lydian Orchestra’s Winter Concert will feature the 2017 Sevenoaks Young Musician of the Year, pianist Peter Xie, who will perform Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No.2, conducted by a local well known musician Peter Young. The concert will be held at the Pamoja Hall, Sevenoaks School on Thursday, 21st December at 7.30pm. The cost of the tickets are £15 CHRISTMAS for adults, £6 under HIGHLIGHT 21 years of age & £1 under 16 years of age. www.thespacesevenoaks.co.uk/ whats-on/whats-on

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Whether it’s a trip to the grotto or a twirl on the ice, we’ve got it all. Book tickets today at bluewater.co.uk

Because it’s Christmas.