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September 2020 1
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2 September 2020
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CONTENTS
In This Issue
We’re Celebrating!
4
There are some reasons to celebrate as we head into autumn.
Education
10 Autumn Activities 12 Early Years 14 Halloween 16 Health 17 Parenting 18 Clubs & Classes 20 Activities
Get in touch Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.
familiesonline.co.uk
Our children will hopefully get to go back to school and nursery after a huge break, which is really good news for parents. This autumn also marks the 30 year anniversary of Families Magazine, first launched in London in 1990. Throughout the next 12 months, we’ll have lots of freebies on offer for our subscribers to mark this milestone. So sign up if you don’t want to miss out! It’s FREE. To get the ball rolling, we’re proud to offer you the chance to win a family holiday to Santa’s Lapland in Finland! See page 2 for details. In the meantime, we hope you find this issue useful in negotiating the start to the new school and nursery year.
September 2020 3
EDUCATION
What Do We Say to the School about our Separation?
Five “Must-Do’s” When Choosing a School for your Child
Any parent who has been through a separation will understand the massive stress it involves and the anxiety around co-parenting. One of the important issues that can get overlooked in the mix is what to tell your child’s school. READ MORE
It always makes sense to put your child at the centre of the process when choosing a school. Parents know better than anyone how different individual children can be and individual schools can be very different too.
By Rebecca Giraud & Bob Greig
By Judith Judd
READ MORE
Coping with Back to School Stress
Starting a new school year after Covid-19 may mean both parents and children feel more anxious than usual. So what can we do to help our children go back to school feeling more happy and relaxed? Claire Winter speaks to some experts. READ MORE 4 September 2020
familiesonline.co.uk
EDUCATION
Calling all young scientists Help us discover how babies & kids learn!
REDDIFORD SCHOOL Long Established Reputation for Academic Excellence Reception 2021 Testing – Monday 19TH October
We’re recruiting infants and children from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at the Birkbeck Babylab in central London. Our prime location is easy to reach via public transport and we refund travel expenses. We’re also developing online studies you can do from the comfort of your own home. Please check out our website for more details.
020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk
An independent day school for boys and girls aged 2 years 9 months to 11 4th IN THE TOP 100 INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS Sunday Times
•
Academically selective
•
100% excellence in all areas - Independent Schools Inspectorate
•
Children prepared for Independent / Grammar Schools’ entrance exams
•
Academic excellence in a warm and caring environment
•
Outstanding staff / pupil ratio across all year groups To visit the school, please contact: The Admissions Secretary, Reddiford School, 38 Cecil Park, Pinner, Middx, HA5 5HH. Tel: 020 8866 0660 Email: admissions@reddiford.org.uk
Established. 1913
www.reddiford.co.uk Registered Charity Number: 312641
An independent 11-18 day school in Harrow, North West London. Excellent for academic achievement. Excellent for personal development. ISI Inspection Report 2019
Welcoming girls for the first time from September 2021. School in Action days in September, October and November
www.johnlyon.org familiesonline.co.uk
HARROW
ON
THE
HILL
SOUTH HARROW
September 2020 5
EDUCATION
Free Learning Support Resources Need some additional tools to help your child catch up at school?
BBC Bitesize
Preschool, KS1, KS2+.
Oxford Owl
Early Years, KS1, KS2+.
BBC School Radio
Daily Phonics Lessons by Ruth Miskin Training
Mathematics Mastery Home Resources KS1, KS2.
Literacy Counts Home Learning Packs
Reception, KS1, KS2.
Bud’s Number Garden Game
Literacy Shed
NRICH Maths at Home Resources
Preschool, KS1.
Preschool, KS1.
6 September 2020
KS1, KS2.
Early Years, KS1, KS2.
KS1, KS2+.
familiesonline.co.uk
EDUCATION Private Tuition The impact of school closures has lead to many students being left behind in education. Let us help you to fill these gaps and help your child return back to the path of learning. • Ages 5 - 16
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familiesonline.co.uk
September 2020 7
EDUCATION
Supporting a Dyslexic Child By Ellie Malt “Do you think she might have dyslexia or something like that?” I asked. I was standing in the playground with one of the teaching assistants, watching my 4 year old climb into her buggy, eager for her after-school snack. Although it was only her second term in Reception, I’d noticed she seemed uninterested in the alphabet, while other children could already write their names. But I was only really thinking out loud. Even to me, it seemed ridiculously early to be jumping to any conclusions. “Probably” she shot back over the general hubbub. I admit, I was shocked. But looking back years later, finally in possession of a formal diagnosis, I appreciate her honesty. I only wish I had acted sooner; it could have saved so much struggle and frustration. READ MORE
Dyslexia Features
Sources of Help
Your child may:
British Dyslexia Association Advice and assessments. Find your local association.
• • • • •
Talk well but write little; Be a slow/reluctant reader; Struggle with spelling; Have difficulties with writing; Not always remember/ understand what he/she has just read; • Seem inattentive and unable to concentrate/remember instructions; • Have difficulty organising himself/herself; • Struggle to remember the order of things, eg days of the week. 8 September 2020
The Dyslexia Association Screening, assessment, tuition, assistive technology training. Dyslexia Assist Find local support. Achieve Now Works with dyslexic pupils and IT. All services online. IPSEA Free, independent legal information, advice and support. Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre Influential regional centre. familiesonline.co.uk
EDUCATION
Trusted local provider now under a new name! The popular tuition centre based in Eastcote, is relaunching as ‘The Learning Wheel’. Over the last 9 years the centre has been at the heart of the local community and provided support in Maths and English to children of all abilities. The Learning Wheel, for children aged four to seventeen was opened by the mayor of Hillingdon, Councillor Teji Barnes, on 1st September 2020. Classes officially begin on 7th September 2020. Darshani Nardani, the proprietor and teacher of the tuition centre said; “The Learning Wheel has added an exciting new element to its services as it now provides assessment and support for children with dyslexia. It is also a place that will help children to get the support they need to catch-up with their Maths and English since the lockdown in March”. The Learning Wheel has been seen a place of support for parents too. A local mum said “I would highly recommend The Learning Wheel to anyone looking to give their child’s maths and English or confidence a boost. I found all the staff to be very helpful, positive and focused on helping children to catch-up with their learning.” familiesonline.co.uk
The tuition centre is open every evening and weekends. Strict social distancing and strict Covid-19 measures are in place to meet government guidelines. The Learning Wheel is located in The Barn House, opposite Eastcote Library. For more information or to book a free assessment call 0208 868 7672. To include your business in the next issue, call Heather on 01923 237 004 or email
editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk
Croxley Green
Malvern Way School - Saturday AM
Mill Hill
Mill HIll County High School - Saturday AM Classes for: 5-8yrs, 8-11yrs &12-18yrs See website for class times and to book online
September 2020 9
ACTIVITIES
Autumn Outdoors Enjoy these seasonal outdoor activities with the family.
Bark Rubbing
Autumn Scavenger Hunt
Conkers
Mushroom Hunting
Tree Decorating
Making and Flying a Kite
10 September 2020
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ACTIVITIES
Great Autumn Crafts Join our friends at MyBaba and get crafty with the kids!
Autumn Leaf Pictures
3D Autumn Tree Craft
Autumn Leaf Sun Catchers
Autumn Play Dough
Painted Leaves
Leaf Rubbing Busy Bag
Animal Seed Collage
Leaf Chromatography
Autumn Sensory Tray
familiesonline.co.uk
September 2020 11
EARLY YEARS
A-Z of Early Years Activities By Gabrielle Nash @thelondonishmum
Animal Hunt. Search for tiny creepy crawlies, the chirpy in the trees kind and the bigger more exciting kind! Baking. Use overripe bananas to bake muffins. Or roll out some biscuit dough. Cardboard Creations. A pirate ship, a car, or a doll’s bed? Save a box, colour it in or cut it up! Den building. Inside with chairs and sheets. Outside with pieces of wood! Envelope Endeavours. Send photos/stickers or a letter/card to a friend/family member. Film Fun. Make popcorn, print off ‘cinema tickets’ and snuggle up. Garden Growing. Ingredients: patch of soil for digging/planting, old spoons for digging and water for watering! Hiking. Pack a bag and snacks/ drinks. Get your kids excited about a little ‘hike.’ Imaginary Play. Kids LOVE it! Visit the doctors or take a pet to the vet! Jumble Sale Jollies. Involve kids in sorting things for charity or a jumble sale. Kickabout. Visit the park with a ball – run, jump, slide, shout! Learning through Play...is the best way! Games like i-spy improve letter/sound recognition. Mud Mess. It’s such FUN! Make mud pies. Noise. Bang pans; pick out a tune/rhythm with bells or drums. 12 September 2020
Outdoor Painting. Paint leaves/stones. Add food colouring to bubbles and ‘paint’ windows – it washes off! Puzzles. Jigsaws develop fine motor skills, spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination. Quiet. Help your little one enjoy quieter things - small world toys, books, colouring or painting. Reading. Make reading special. Try different voices to captivate your child’s imagination. Safari Special. Hide toy animals (or pictures) around your home. Grab paper/pen and go on safari. Write down the animals you see. Treasure Time. Make a map and hide “treasure.” Grab a toy sword and battle pirates as you search for it! Under the Stars. Show your toddler the twinkling lights from galaxies far away. Virtual Fun. Journey down the Amazon; enjoy a virtual roller coaster ride! Water. As a wise person once said: when a child is grumpy “just add water!” X-Ray. Draw around your child’s body. Stick the drawing on the floor. Draw in bones, explaining what they are and what they do. Yoga. Find great kid-friendly options on Youtube. ZZZZ….Time to sleep. familiesonline.co.uk
EARLY YEARS
Childcare Post Lockdown As childcare opens up postlockdown, there is a sense of unease about whether it’s safe to send our children back to nursery. Of course, we want to protect them. So how are nurseries making their environment safe for our children? READ MORE
BB Stanmore HPL ad:Layout 1 14/08/2020 14:21 Page 1
OPEN DAYS Tues
24th Nov ember Thurs 26 th Novem ber Wed 2nd Decembe r Friday 4th Decembe r (by appointm ent only)
Brand New Nursery opening in Stanmore JANUARY 2021 For children aged 3 months to 5 years old Outstanding facilities, quality educational resources Dedicated baby rooms Higher standard of qualified and caring staff Wholesome freshly prepared vegetarian meals daily 8am to 6pm 51 weeks of the year
REGISTERING FROM SEPTEMBER 2020 Orme Lodge, 2 Gordon Avenue, Stanmore, Middlesex, HA7 3QD Email stanmore@bluebutterflymontessori.com www.bluebutterflymontessori.com familiesonline.co.uk
...where to begin September 2020 13
PARENTING PARENTING
Motivating Our Teens To Learn A workshop for all parents of teenagers
As a parent it can be exciting and satisfying seeing our children grow into unique individuals and also challenging if we see them struggling or disinterested with school. We will discuss how to support our Teens sustain the joy of learning in the face of any possible struggles and frustrations. Topics include: • Taking an interest • Positive communication • Encouraging self-discipline • SMART Expectations • Natural rewards and consequences Date:
Monday 9th November 2020
Time: Venue: Cost:
7.00-9.00pm On-Line £15.00 / £7.50 concession (with proof)
To book a place please call 0208 863 7319 Or Email: info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk
Charity Registration Number: 1091703
Delivered in partnership with Adult, Community & Family Learning, Harrow Council
Effective Parenting This course is for every parent with a child aged 3-12 years This 8 week programme is aimed to help parents and carers learn practical communication skills for everyday life and to develop their abilities to bring up confident, happy and co-operative children. Topics include: Building self-esteem for children and parents : understanding children’s behaviour : listening skills : effective communication : dealing with feelings and setting limits. Starting: Finishes: Time: Venue: Cost:
Tuesday 15th September 2020 Tuesday 3rd November 2020 (8 sessions including during School holidays) 7.00-9.00pm On-line delivery £60.00/£30 Concessions (with proof)
Call us on 020 8863 7319 to register Or email info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk
Charity Registration Number: 1091703
14 September 2020
Delivered in partnership with Adult community family learning, Harrow Council
familiesonline.co.uk
PARENTING
On-Line Parenting Course for Separated Parents This course is recommended for parents who have separated or newly separated and would like to co-parent. Both parents are required to attend.
In a safe, non-judgemental arena this 8 week programme uses a parent focussed- child centred approach. Children need two loving parents, consistent, positive discipline and clear communication. You will both be able to develop your skills to bring up confident, happy and co-operative children.
Topics include: Understanding and acknowledging your needs and those of your children : Building self-esteem in your children and yourself : Understanding children’s behaviour : Why a consistent approach works best : Listening skills : Effective communication : dealing with feelings and promoting positive discipline. Starting: Finishes: Time: Venue: Cost:
Tuesday 10th November 2020 Tuesday 15 December 2020 (6 sessions) 7.00-9.00pm On-line £60.00/£30 Concessions (with proof) Per parent
Call us on 020 8863 7319 to register Or email info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk
Charity Registration Number: 1091703
Delivered in partnership with Adult community family learning, Harrow Council
Parenting with Positive Discipline A workshop for all parents As a parent it can be exciting and satisfying seeing our children grow into unique individuals and also challenging when they decide they want things their own way. We will look at parenting our children with respect, making sure it’s consistent and firm but fair, ensuring we create a long lasting positive relationship. Topics include: Understanding and acknowledging the needs behind behaviour Negotiating and setting limits Finding different ways to communicate effectively Choices and consequences. Date: Time: Venue: Cost:
Monday 11th January 2021 7.00-9.00pm On-line £15.00 / £7.50 concession (with proof)
To book a place please call 0208 863 7319 Or Email: info@hopeharrow.org.uk
www.hopeharrow.org.uk
familiesonline.co.uk
Charity Registration Number: 1091703
Delivered in partnership with Adult, Community & Family Learning, Harrow Council
September 2020 15
HEALTH
Dealing with Separation Anxiety
Children with OCD: Recognising the Signs
Transitions are always stressful, and even more so if you have been out of the swing of things for a while. Dr Sarah Mundy from Parenting through Stories has created a guide to give you some ideas about the best ways to support your child through separation anxiety.
Children worry. Feeling anxious, having doubts, or being worried is normal at any age. However, those who are experiencing OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), may feel unable to stop focussing on those feelings – no matter how much they want to. This can compel them to behave in particular ways. READ MORE
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To include your business in the next issue, call Heather on 01923 237 004
16 September 2020
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PARENTING
Who Will Take Care of the Children IF….?
Busting the Myths about Adoption: Are you Eligible?
It’s tough deciding who will take care of your children if the worst happens and they no longer have a parent around. Unfortunately, in this eventuality, the situation is not straightforward for your children. Find out why.
Sadly, the number of children in care being adopted each year has fallen, while the number being looked after by local authorities is steadily rising. So there’s a continuing need to find more adoptive parents to look after vulnerable children. READ MORE
By Andrew Campbell
READ MORE
Meaningful Moments By Claire Winter
We all lead busy lives, with endless to-do lists and children with many hobbies. Naturally family time can fall by the wayside sometimes. Yet spending time together is essential if we want a happy and inclusive family environment. So why not plan some family moments this autumn? READ MORE familiesonline.co.uk
September 2020 17
CLUBS & CLASSES
Face-to-Face and Virtual Classes and Clubs
Mother Nature Science
Gymboree Play & Music
Teddies Music Club
Face to face and online science activity classes for 5-12yrs.
Face to face classes for 0-5s on patented apparatus.
Face to face and online music toddler groups for 0-5s.
Sing and Sign at Home
Phonics with Robot Reg
Perform
Online baby signing classes.
Literacy and early phonics skills for ages 3 months - 4 years.
Face to face and online classes for 4-12 yrs. Quote LNW141120 for an introductory ÂŁ40 discount by 14 Nov.
Rugbytots
Little Gym
Little Kickers
Face to face rugby play programme for 2-7 yrs.
18 September 2020
Face to face and online Face to face football gymnastics activities classes for 18mths-7yrs. for 4mths-12yrs. familiesonline.co.uk
CLUBS & CLASSES
Face-to-Face and Virtual Classes and Clubs
ÂŽ
Stagecoach
FunTech
Monkey Music
Face-to-face and online singing, dancing and acting for ages 4-15 yrs+.
Online tech and coding for 7-18 yrs.
Award winning music classes for babies and young children from 3 months.
Tiska Karate
Elina Patrou Academy of Dance
Blank Canvas Art Club
Traditional Shotokan Karate for individuals or families from 4 years.
Street Dance Academy
Face-to-Face and online Ballet, Contemporary Dance and Pilates
Teaching art techniques to children 5, 7+, 11-18 & adults. Weekly classes & holiday workshop.
Lingotot
Aqua Vie
Face to face and online Swimming lessons language classes for based on the Alexander Movement and Dance 0-12yrs. Technique. Ages classes from 5-15 years. 6mths+. familiesonline.co.uk
September 2020 19
20 September 2020
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September 2020 21
READING
9 Top New Children’s Books for Autumn
Mermaid School: Ready, Steady, Swim!
Noah Wild and the Floating Zoo
Lucy Courtenay/Sheena Dempsey. An underwater school story. Ages 7+.
Alexander Mccall Smith. An ordinary boy’s heartwarming/extraordinary feat. Ages 7+.
Louis Sachar/Aleksei Bitskoff. Brilliantly illustrated story of mixedup mayhem. Ages 7+.
My Name is River
Turtle Boy
Health Heroes
The Virus
Return to Wonderland
The Unadoptables
Beneath the Cloud of Doom
Emma Rea. M. Evan Wolkenstein. Emily Sharratt. Thrilling, ecological A story offering hope/ ‘Health heroes’ talk adventure in the Amazon new perspectives to life’s about their working lives. jungle. Ages 9+. outsiders. Ages 9+. Ages 9+.
Ben Martynoga/Moose Allain. Explores the science behind viruses/Covid-19 pandemic. Ages 11+. 22 September 2020
Wonderland-inspired stories from top contemporary authors. Ages 11+.
Hana Tooke/Ayesha L.Rubio. Adventure set in oldworld Amsterdam/ surrounds. Ages 11+.
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