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Issue 170 January/February 2026 Familiesonline.co.uk
Familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London
1
FESTIVALS
Best family-friendly festivals 2026 Compiled by Andrew Campbell There’s endless fun for families to have at family-friendly festivals across the UK in 2026. Our selection of festivals below all offer a fusion of music, arts, entertainment and outdoor adventures. The BritFest 2-5 July Ashley Hall, Altrincham, Cheshire
Designed with families in mind, activities include arts and crafts, face painting, an outdoor minicinema and classic funfair rides. There’s also plenty of live music and entertainment suitable for all ages, plus options for camping or glamping for a full weekend adventure. www.thebritfest.co.uk
Y Not Festival 30 July-2 Aug Pikehall, Derbyshire
Y Not Festival is a lively music festival which offers a familyfriendly experience with plenty of activities for children. Alongside its diverse music lineup, Y Not features a dedicated Kids’ Area with arts and crafts, workshops, games and circus skills. There are also funfair rides, storytelling and interactive performances to keep younger festival-goers entertained. Families can also benefit from a dedicated camping area for a quieter night’s rest. www.ynotfestival.com
DevaFest 6-9 August Cholmondeley Castle, Cheshire
DevaFest goes all out for families, especially kids, offering unlimited free fairground rides, circus skills workshops, magic shows, puppet theatre, dedicated kids’ entertainment zones, interactive storytelling sessions, arts and crafts, face painting and themed parades. Additional highlights include family discos, character meet-and-greets and treasure hunts. With extensive outdoor play areas and a focus on safety, DevaFest provides a structured, engaging programme to keep children entertained. www.devafest.co.uk
Shindig Festival 21-24 May Charlton Park, Wiltshire
Shindig Festival is a familyfriendly event that blends music, dance and creative arts with a strong community vibe. The large kids’ area is packed with free activities from 9am to 5pm daily, including arts and crafts, circus skills, workshops, games and interactive performances. There are also family-friendly shows, plenty of space for children to play and explore and a packed programme of entertainment for all ages. www.shindigfestival.co.uk
The Long Road Festival 27-30 August Stanford Hall, Leicestershire
A family-friendly celebration of country, Americana and roots music, fusing good time country music, U.S. inspired street food and great entertainment. Kids are entertained in a dedicated area with American camp style games, kids’ tractor racing, crafting and evenings spent around open campfires listening to country music under the stars. www.thelongroad.com
The Great Estate Festival 29-31 May Scorrier Estate, Redruth, Cornwall
Known for its eclectic mix of music, art, theatre and adventure. Families will find a wealth of activities for children, including circus workshops, storytelling, arts and crafts, vintage fairground rides and interactive performances. The festival’s beautiful grounds host woodland trails, secret gardens and quirky entertainment, providing plenty of space for kids to explore and play. It’s a vibrant, welcoming festival perfect for all ages. www.greatestatefestival.co.uk
The Green Man Festival 20-23 August Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, Wales
This independent music, science and arts festival nestled in the Brecon Beacons boasts plenty of large and small music venues, plus comedy, film, literature, art, science and playful mischief across dedicated zones. The festival’s Little Folk area offers hands-on workshops, nature activities, science experiments, arts and crafts and interactive performances. There are family-friendly theatre shows, storytelling sessions and dedicated play spaces designed for various age groups. www.greenman.net 2 Families North West London
Camper Calling 28-30 August Ragley Hall, Alcester, Warwickshire
Camper Calling is a true family festival for children of all ages. Kids can dive into creative workshops, music sessions and hands-on arts and crafts. There’s a dedicated Kids Stage, circus skills, woodland walks and adventures. The festival’s safe, friendly atmosphere means families can relax and enjoy live music while little ones explore, learn and play. Adults can enjoy an eclectic music lineup with acoustic sets and emerging talents. www.campercalling.com Familiesonline.co.uk
IN THIS ISSUE: 4-5 6-7 8-9 10-11 12 13 14-15
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Education Early Years Clubs & Classes Directory New Year, New You Health Family Theatre What’s On
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EDUCATION
Redefining educational success By Gavin McCormack In my twenty-five years as a school teacher, I’ve had hundreds of conversations with parents about what would be best for their children. What all those conversations had in common was that no matter what was happening at home, in the classroom or with the children’s learning, what parents wanted most from education was for their children to be happy. And why not? Nothing is more precious than seeing a child truly happy and content in being who they are. Yet many of us still enrol our children in schools that boast about achieving the highest grades, having the biggest swimming pools or ranking highest on national league tables, without considering what these schools do to make our children feel content, purposeful and passionate. The reality of being number one In 2022, the OECD’s PISA rankings named Singapore as the number one school system in the world regarding academic attainment. The country has a regular spot in the top five, alongside Taiwan, Macau and Japan. But does that mean those children are getting the best start in life? Paradoxically, the OECD also releases The World Happiness Report, which ranks the world’s happiest countries. If academic rankings were linked to happiness levels, surely we’d see the same countries in the top positions on both reports? But that’s not the case. Iceland, Sweden, Denmark and Finland all top the happiness rankings. How can that be? There is a clear mismatch between our children’s academic grades and their levels of happiness. Although Singapore’s education system is renowned for its academic rigour and high standards, I’ve heard numerous firsthand accounts that this desire to be the best comes at a cost. Several studies speak to this same cost - alarmingly high levels of anxiety among Singaporean students, primarily attributed to academic pressure - including the 2017 OECD study that found eighty six percent of Singaporean students were worried about getting poor grades - even when well-prepared, compared to the OECD’s global average of sixty six percent (which is still very high).
The study revealed that the pressure stems from various sources, including parental expectations, societal emphasis on academic achievement and the competitive nature of the education system itself, which is not unique to Singapore. A fear of failure and internalising expectations doesn’t sound like a healthy childhood to me. The consequences of chronic stress can be severe, affecting students’ mental and emotional wellbeing, sleep patterns and quality of life. The focus on academic achievement can also lead to losing interest in learning, where the joy of discovery is replaced by the anxiety of performance. Simply put, if we put too much emphasis on our children getting the top grades, competing against each other and avoiding failure at all costs, they will inevitably become more anxious. Interestingly, Iceland, Sweden, Denmark and Finland - the top four countries on the 2022 OECD’s happiness ranking all have one thing in common: their citizens have immense personal freedom, choice and high trust levels within their communities - qualities that all work together to prevent the development of anxiety and depression. If we really want to put children’s happiness first, then we should choose schools that trust them to make their own decisions, learn from their mistakes, have agency over their learning and engage with the real world. This article is an abridged extract from the book Raising Resilient Children by Gavin McCormack, published by Simon & Schuster, available in all good bookshops now.
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What do the words ‘best school’ mean?
Before you enrol your child in any school, you have to decide what ‘best’ means to you. Is the ‘best’ school dictated by the grades, points, scores, facilities and reputation? Or is a successful school journey not about ‘what’ your child becomes but ‘who’? In my view, it’s the latter. For me, education is about allowing a child to find their passion and attend a school that embraces the same values and visions for the future that their family holds dear. 4 Families North West London
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EDUCATION
Communicating effectively with your child’s school By Zuzu Jordan
Building a strong partnership between home and school is one of the most effective ways to support your child’s education. Clear, open communication helps parents stay informed, teachers feel supported and children thrive. Nowadays, with many ways to connect with your child’s school, choosing the right method often depends on the purpose of the conversation. Face-to-face meetings Scheduled parent–teacher meetings are designed to talk about academic strengths, areas for improvement and social development. If an issue arises in between, many schools welcome parents booking a short appointment. These face-toface conversations build trust and understanding. Phone calls Sometimes a quick phone call is the most efficient way to share information or ask a specific question. Whether it’s to clarify a homework task, discuss an upcoming trip or raise a concern, speaking directly allows for an immediate response. Schools often have designated times when staff are available to return calls. Emails and online platforms Digital communication is now a key part of school life. Emails provide a written record, making them useful for non-urgent matters or when you want to ensure clarity. Many schools also use online platforms or apps to share updates, homework and messages. These systems help parents keep track of school events and deadlines.
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When issues require more detail For more serious matters that require ongoing discussion, it’s wise to create a clear paper trail. Written communication, whether by email or letter, provides a record of what has been agreed and can help avoid misunderstandings. This approach is particularly useful if you need to revisit a matter at a later date. Informal conversations Quick chats at the classroom door or at school events can also be helpful, though it’s best to keep these brief. Teachers often have limited time at the start and end of the day, so use these moments for short updates rather than detailed discussions. Working together Whichever method you use, the key is to keep communication respectful and constructive. Remember that teachers and staff are working in partnership with you to support your child. Choosing the most appropriate way to communicate helps strengthen the home-school connection and shows your child that their learning truly matters. Zuzu is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for eighteen years and is Director of Arnett International. For FREE resources and tips, find her on Instagram @edumate_uk
Families North West London 5
EARLY YEARS
Allowing your child to develop at their own pace By Helen Zimprich Children are different - we all know that. Yet we often find ourselves comparing them. Why can my neighbour’s daughter speak so clearly at two and a half while my daughter says only a few words? Why can my friend’s son eat on his own while my son still needs my help? From potty training to dressing themselves or sleeping through the night, the comparisons never seem to end. I’ve been there myself. I have three children and each one is unique. My daughter was independent from an early age, while my little son has always been deeply attached to me. She could dress herself and put on her shoes before pre-school; he needed me beside him until he reached age 6. At first, I thought he was doing it on purpose, to test my patience. But during parenting training, I learned something essential: every child’s brain develops at its own pace. My daughter’s brain was ready for independence in certain areas but my son’s wasn’t yet. His need for my presence wasn’t manipulation, it was purely developmental. He simply felt safe when I was near and that safety allowed him to learn to put on his shoes. It’s important for us parents to understand how the brain develops. It has three main parts. The right side of the brain is responsible for emotions - that’s why toddlers have such big feelings and frequent meltdowns. The left side, which handles language and logic, only begins developing around age 3 and matures much more slowly.
So when my son wanted me next to him while putting on his shoes, it didn’t make sense to my logical adult brain but it made perfect sense to his still-developing one. As parents, we need to ask ourselves: Is my child not willing or simply not yet able? Most of the time, it’s the second one. When we shift our perspective from frustration to understanding, everything changes. We stop expecting our children to hurry up and start meeting them where they are. It’s worth remembering that rather than your child giving you a hard time, your child is having a hard time. It’s tough having so much to learn! And your calm, loving presence is exactly what helps them through it. Helen Zimprich (www.helenzimprich.com) is a certified Parenting Coach who helps working mothers set healthy boundaries and supports them to create strong connections with their kids through calm, conscious parenting. Follow her on Instagram.
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Imagine your child is eating cookies. You say ‘stop’ after the third and your child starts screaming. You stay calm, comfort your child, validate the feelings and wait until the big emotions pass. Then, when things are calm, you gently say: ‘I know how that feels. It would be so nice to eat as many cookies as we want! But if we eat too many, our tummies will start to hurt.’ Choosing connection over correction teaches our children emotional safety, empathy and self-regulation.
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EARLY YEARS
Overcoming bath refusal By Claire Burgess What do you do when a young child who loves having a bath suddenly stops wanting to go in? As a great ‘wind down’ opportunity before bedtime, it’s natural to worry that this refusal might affect their bedtime routine. Please be reassured that some children go through this phase and it is connected to their stage of development at the time. There are a number of reasons why your child may refuse the bath. These could include a previous experience that upset them, bath times being too long or too late, different sounds in the bathroom, a dislike of hair washing and even worries about being sucked down the plug hole! The following successful approaches may encourage your little one back into the water again. Make bath time fun Use toys. These could be anything from toy animals to watertight balls and glow sticks, blowing bubbles, bath crayons or bath colouring tablets. Use a bath mat This helps your little one feels secure when sitting or standing and helps avoid slipping. Having a bath in the day with no water Think of this as practice in adjusting to being in water. Avoid doing this at a time when your child might be tired or hungry though. Reading books about having a bath can be helpful.
Encourage ‘sink play’ in the bathroom Fill the sink with water (possibly coloured with food colouring) and then put some toys in and around it. Use a step so your little one can reach the sink and let them play as they wish. This can emphasise the fun element of water and familiarise your child with being in the bathroom. Let your child stand, rather than making them sit down This lets you wash your little one while they are standing and playing with toys on the edge of the bath (this is why it is important to have a bathmat to avoid slipping). It’s possible they may only be in the bath for a couple of minutes. This is absolutely fine and you can try to gradually build up the length of their bath. Hopefully, over time, they will feel confident enough to sit down. Put on their swimming costume/trunks/armbands This adds a fun element! You could also play the Cocomelon bath song to make things even more fun. Find it on YouTube. Claire Burgess is a director and family consultant at Bespoke Family (www.bespokefamily.co.uk), which offers tailored support from newborns to teens.
Dealing with hair washing challenges
Other reasons for bath refusal
Many infants do not enjoy having their hair washed and if your child is suddenly unwilling to have a bath, it might be because they associate it with this.
If there’s been a previous occasion when the bath water was a little too warm or too cold, this may have contributed to your little one’s bath refusal.
You could consider the following options to help move things forward:
Always fill the bath with cold water and then top up with hot to ensure it isn’t too warm. It should be around body temperature (37 degrees) and you can test it with your elbow. If you use a bath thermometer, make sure you re-test with your elbow afterwards. Never leave children unattended in or near water even when just running baths or sinks and always empty them as soon as they are no longer in use.
If you’ve previously used a shower attachment, use a jug or two of water for the hair wash instead - or vice versa! Get your child to look up at the ceiling while you are washing their hair so that the water drains down their back and not down their face. You can also give them a dry flannel to hold over their eyes to prevent shampoo going in them and so that if any water does come down their face they are able to dry it. Get the hair wash out of the way at the start of the bath; then your child can play and you are ending bath time on a positive note.
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Young children often go through periods where they find bedtime worrying and they may associate bathing with bedtime. Having a bath at another point in the day may be helpful. Remember also that what seems normal to adults doesn’t necessarily seem so for young children. Reassure them they won’t be sucked down the plug hole when the bath is emptied; nor encounter anything scary in the water. Families North West London 7
CLUBS & CLASSES
Clubs and classes directory ACTIVITY CENTRES
CODING
Lincolnsfields Playzone (WD23) A soft play centre in Bushey for children up to the age of 11. Birthday party packages available. Open daily during school holidays, and Monday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday during term time. www.lincolnsfieldsplayzone.co.uk
DiscoG Coding Academy (HA3) Run weekly term-time classes and holiday courses and workshops for students aged 6 to 18. Join in to learn Computer Science, Coding, Robotics, AI and Machine Learning. Contact Gerard & Kat on 07767300940, email: info@discogcodingacademy.com www.discogcodingacademy.com
Ninja Warrior Watford (WD25) Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Park is a supervised activity and fitness venue inspired by ITV’s hit programme Ninja Warrior UK! A great place for family activities and for keeping fit. No charge for spectators to come and watch your Ninjas from the café area- full range of hot and cold food plus a wide selection of drinks! www.ninjawarrioruk.co.uk/watford
AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS Harrow Woodcraft Folk Join our Elfin group (6 to 9 years). Meeting in Central Harrow. Tuesday evenings (term time): 6:30-8pm. Email harrowwoodcraftfolk@yahoo. co.uk for more details. www.woodcraft.org.uk Holidaytime After School Club (Part of Activetime Children’s Activities Limited) (HA1) Pick up from four local schools at the end of the school day, then take the children back to the club for a snack and the daily activity. Open Mon-Fri 3-6pm at The Cadet Centre, Harrow, HA1 2QA. Call 07575801623, email holidays@ activetime.co.uk www.activetimedaynursery.co.uk Willesden and Brent Chess Club (NW2) Provides social chess for players of levels, set up Club competitions and tutor juniors. For the more competitive player they enter teams into local leagues and refer members to our county team. We meet at Cricklewood Library (Monday) and Chalkhill Community Centre (Wednesday). Call Anthony on 07974 238357, email fulton790@aol.com www.willesdenchess.wordpress.com
ARTS & CRAFTS Blank Canvas Art Club Online, fine art classes for kids and adults from 6-106 teaching skills & techniques whilst encouraging imagination and finding your own style whatever your experience. Weekday after school kids classes. Adults evening or daytime classes suitable for beginners or refreshers. Email Suzi blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com www.Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub Cygnets Art School Ruislip Inclusive term-time art classes, holiday workshops, birthday parties and private tuition for children aged 5+. Classes are high quality, allowing children to improve their artistic skills through enjoyable projects using professional quality materials. Regular classes in Ruislip Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. www.cygnetsartschool.com/ruislip L Marsh Art Studio (HA7) We celebrate the making of art by tapping in to the creativity, interest and enthusiasm of our students and providing the space, time and guidance for it to happen. Classes are taught from a purpose-built art studio, either in small groups or 1-2-1 private tuition. Skills and techniques are taught according to each student’s individual readiness. 90-minute after-school art classes Monday, Wednesday, Thursday. Term-in-a-Week Painting Courses during school holidays. Private classes by arrangement. All ages from 7 and upwards. All levels of experience. www.facebook.com/art1stanmore 8 Families North West London
Little Coders Coding class for children aged 4 to 6 years. Develop critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication. www.littlecodersclub.co.uk Darshani Dyslexia London
EDUCATION SUPPORT A dyslexia assessment can help children understand why they may be struggling more than their peers. It helps to boost confidence and self-esteem. Early identification can help children and adults to get the support they need. Our assessments include a full detailed report that includes an outline of learning strengths, recommendations and strategies for how to work on areas of weakness. Assessments conducted by qualified SpLD (Dyslexia) assessor and teacher. Call 07949 073 542 www.darshanidyslexialondon.co.uk Free Readers (Various) Free Readers offers enrichment or extra help for children aged 3-11 yrs in Reading, Maths and English, homework and test preparation. Individual teaching and attention in small groups is the preferred way to help children. They encourage them how to learn, enabling them to reach their full potential. Call 07385 258007 or email office@freereaders.co.uk. www.freereaders.co.uk Hatch End Tuition (Various) Hatch End Tuition is an established and successful tutoring centre offering a warm and friendly environment where children are encouraged and motivated to achieve their maximum potential whatever their ability. Their aim is to build children’s confidence and help achieve high standards of work in an engaging and challenging environment 020 8421 3066. www.hatchendtuition.co.uk Integrated Brain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration. Call 07766 837 616, ushapatel.raviv@gmail.com www.integratedbrain.co.uk Kumon (HA6) Our maths and English programmes unlock potential, strengthen skills, and spark a love of learning. Whatever their starting point, we’ll help them move ahead – one small step at a time. Book your FREE assessment today and give them the head start they deserve. www.kumon.co.uk/northwood-hills Little Big Leaders (HA8 & WD23) Maths/English or Phonics & Writing for 3½ to 11 year-olds at our Saturday School, Summer and Winter School. Tutors support and challenge pupils to improve their learning and have a track record in enabling pupils to demonstrate progress in their mainstream setting and/or in 5+, 7+ and 11+ examinations. Childcare vouchers accepted. FREE trial lessons. Call 020 3637 6266. www.littlebigleaders.com
Catch up reading course. Improve reading age by 1 year in 3 months of home-based work. The computer interventions is similar to having a tutor in your home with daily monitoring and feedback. Call 07766 837 6168 info@ ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist). www.ravpracticelondon.co.uk Type it! Essential Touch-Typing Courses (ages 8-18). Our online courses are tutor supported. 95% of our students complete the course in 10 lessons, achieving 95% accuracy! Invest now for your child’s future. Keyboard confidence, accurate typing, faster work speed, improved spelling. Empower your child with this lifelong skill! Contact us to find out more. www.touchtypeit.co.uk
DANCE Street Dance Academy (Various) Teach children aged 5-18 yrs every weekend during school term time, with clubs in and around London, Hertfordshire and Surrey. Street Dance Academy also teach Adult Street Dance and Zumba Classes in Twickenham every Wednesday. Call 0800 0236 236. www.streetdanceacademy.co.uk
Elina Patrou Academy of Dance (HA7) Elina Patrou Academy of Dance offers exceptional ballet training for children and teens aged 2½–18. Following the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, classes nurture confidence, creativity and discipline in a joyful, supportive environment. Led by RAD-qualified teachers and ex-professional ballerinas, we teach both recreational and vocational ballet, including Discovering Repertoire - a unique programme where students learn classical variations from iconic ballets. Classes are held in Canons Park in spacious, fully equipped studios. Join us for a trial class www.elinapatrouacademyofdance.com New Strathspey School of Dancing Highland Dancing for fitness and fun. Children’s Saturday morning highland dancing class for 5-11 year olds at Knutsford School Hall, Watford. Full details of all classes is available on the website. Contact Sandy at shunt@moose.co.uk www.rscdsherts.org/new-strathspey
HEALTH & WELLBEING Etiquette and Emotions Etiquette and Emotions offer live, interactive, and enjoyable workshops for children and teens aged 7-15 to elevate their emotional intelligence and social etiquette. Workshops are run by a certified children’s coach and include videos, discussions, and a quiz. Get 10% off! Use discount code: ee10off at the checkout! www.etiquetteandemotions.com
Raviv Practice London (UB5) Familiesonline.co.uk
CLUBS & CLASSES Kids Yoga with Yana (Watford) Yana is a qualified Kids Yoga teacher with a passion for empowering children to be the best version of themselves through yoga and mindfulness practice. www.facebook.com/kidsyogawithyana
LANGUAGES & DEVELOPMENT Phonics with Robot Reg (various) Provide fun, high-energy classes which teach early phonics skills to children 1 to 4 years. Fun, varied and educational classes. https://robotreg.co.uk
MUSIC Gymboree Play & Music Watford Sensory classes for babies, art and music classes, as well as Play & Learn classes for little ones who are on the move. They also offer a range of fabulously fun birthday parties. Find them upstairs in the Atria shopping Centre at the top of the Queens Car Park. https://gymbo.co.uk/locations/watford Little Voices Led by the inspiring Coleen Mann, Little Voices Harrow & Hillingdon offers small-group drama and singing classes for children aged 4-18 that build confidence, communication skills, and creativity. With no pressure to perform, every child is supported to find their voice in a safe, nurturing space. Classes run during term time in Harrow, Hatch End and Ickenham – book your free trial lesson today by calling 07787 535506 or emailing coleen@littlevoices.org.uk www.littlevoices.org.uk Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning Monkey Music, trusted by parents since 1992, introduces babies and young children aged 3 months to 4 years to music with a unique four-stage curriculum tailored to each age group. Classes run 6 days a week, in Uxbridge, Eastcote, Northwood, Ickenham, Harrow, Stanmore and Watford. Call 020 8427 6595. www.monkeymusic.co.uk
SPORT & EXERCISE TISKA Karate Learn the art of Karate. Classes held weekly in Harrow, Northwood and Wembley. Families welcome. Ages 4+. Two week FREE trial. Call 07739 572487, or email hpatel@tiskakarate.com www.tiskakarate-harrow.co.uk www.tiskakarate-northwood.co.uk www.tiskakarate-wembley.co.uk
Watford Cycle Hub Offering cycle repair services, maintenance courses and cycle training. They also offer advice and information about cycling and bikes, including local cycle routes and maps, news about locally led rides and opportunities. www.watfordcyclehub.org.uk
Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA5) Performance based theatre school for children aged 3-18 with venues based at the Harrow Arts Centre in Hatch End. Weekly classes in Musical Theatre, Ballet, Tap, Modern, LAMDA and Acrobatics. www.sharpeacademy.co.uk
SWIMMING Aqua Vie Regular after school weekly classes in Bushey during term times. Spaces for new babies, toddlers and adults on Tues and Wed. Learn mindful, effortless swimming in a calm environment in warm water. office@aqua-vie. com or call 01923 245 773 or 07814 987 153. www.aqua-vie.com
Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, by having fun! Call Harrow 020 3504 0100, Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294, Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154, Watford 01727 768 738, Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 or Northwood 01442 263 599. www.stagecoach.co.uk
THEATRE & PERFORMING ARTS
CLASSES FOR GROWN UPS
Achieve Arts (HA5/NW7/NW11) Achieve Arts is a performance centre teaching drama, speech and singing to children and young adults. Young performers work towards their LAMDA examinations in acting, verse and prose, public speaking and musical theatre whilst learning some key life skills. The exceptional teaching team have a wealth of experience and are invested in the students to Achieve their best. call 020 8087 2461. www.achievearts.co.uk
Woodcarving (Iver) A small group who would welcome new members. Drop in for a chat! Meet Monday mornings 9.30am-12.30pm at Evreham Centre. Email webb1959@btinternet.com
Harrow Arts Centre Youth Theatre (HA5) Are you passionate about performing, writing, or directing theatre? Our weekly HAC Youth Theatre is your chance to develop professional skills in theatrical performance while boosting confidence and creativity in a supportive learning environment. For ages 7-11 years. www.harrowarts.com Perform (Various) Help your child shine with a FREE Perform class. Perform weekly classes for 4-7s and 7-12’s use a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out a child’s natural ability. Run by professional actors, classes focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration. We put child development at the heart of our classes which means we don’t worry about whether children get their lines or moves exactly right. All abilities are welcome! The curriculum is packed with fun, using a mix of drama games, catchy songs and funky dances. Classes in Harrow, Ickenham, Northwood, Pinner, Ruislip, Stanmore and Watford. Every child is welcome to try a no-obligation FREE class. www.perform.org.uk/try
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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
Resolutions that stick for 2026
Anna Houston is a freelance writer specialising in parenting and women’s lifestyle
By Anna Houston
Plan with purpose A little planning goes a long way. Set aside time each Sunday to reset so you feel calmer and more in control of the week ahead. Check the calendar, lay out uniforms and make a short to-do list. Pair it with a cup of tea, a podcast or a face mask, so it feels like self-care. Look at the bigger picture. Break your year into quarters and plan around family milestones. Avoid starting big projects in the busiest periods. Mapping goals to life’s rhythm makes them more achievable.
Double up on healthy habits Healthy habits can make life more fun. Meet a friend for a walk and takeaway coffee instead of sitting in a café or catch up at the playground and do a few squats while pushing the children on the swing. Pair up with a friend to start a mini ‘cook-along club’ where you try a new healthy recipe each week or introduce a ‘vegetable of the week’ challenge. Pick a fruit or vegetable you don’t usually buy and find ways to add it to meals - it keeps healthy eating creative and fresh.
Greener living, simplified Going green can feel overwhelming, so make one easy sustainable swap each quarter. If you commit to changing just four things throughout the year, by the end of it your life will have improved in four tangible ways. Last year we got a built-in water filter, swapped to an eco-friendly detergent, replaced plastic bottles with stainless steel ones and started growing herbs. They’re small changes but they’ve made our home feel more aligned with the way we want to live. 10 Families North West London
Just move little and often Regular exercise is a way to care for your body and lift your mood. Think ‘little and often’ rather than ‘all or nothing.’ Walk the school run, take the stairs or park somewhere that adds a fifteen minute walk to your destination. Consider a fold-away treadmill or exercise bike that you can use while replying to emails or watching a film. Twenty minutes of steady movement is far more realistic than a rigid gym routine - and it still counts.
Change your self-talk Healthy living starts in your head, not your kitchen. Much of how we eat, move and care for ourselves depends on how we speak to ourselves. If your inner dialogue is self-critical, it’s time to change the script. Instead of focusing on what you shouldn’t eat, think about what will make you feel energised. Swap ‘I’ve ruined it’ for ‘I enjoyed that; now I’ll make my next choice a nourishing one.’ When you stop labelling food as ‘good’ or ‘bad’, you stop labelling yourself that way too and you build a healthier, more forgiving relationship with eating.
Family check-ins Life is busy and real conversation can easily go by the wayside. Eat together at least three evenings a week - no phones or screens and ask everyone to share the best and worst part of their day. It keeps family life connected. Although big days out are wonderful, small, consistent moments through the week are just as powerful. This includes time with your partner. My spouse and I hug for twenty seconds every morning. It’s simple but effective and helps us reset and start the day as a team. Familiesonline.co.uk
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU January is full of big promises to ourselves - eat better, move more, stress less. But real growth comes from small, intentional steps that last. These ideas will help you build a calmer, healthier, more balanced life beyond the New Year.
Refresh your supplements Many of us reach for multivitamins without much thought but focusing on specific nutrients can make a difference - magnesium is worth attention. Supporting muscle recovery, hormone balance and deeper sleep, it can also help ease anxiety and improve focus. Low magnesium can show up in countless ways and many people are slightly deficient without realising. Restoring your levels can help you feel more balanced and energised. Everyone’s needs differ, so speak to a health professional if you’re unsure about changes.
The school holiday savings pot
Put a little money aside each month for school holidays so you can enjoy them with less financial stress. Many banking apps let you set up savings pots to stay organised. I have a ‘fun fund’ for my kids that covers days out, café trips and rainy-day activities. I also keep a small ‘pocket money’ pot for myself - guilt-free spending on things I truly want but would usually push to the bottom of the list. It’s a simple form of self-care that reminds me to look after myself too.
Time for fun
Set aside at least an hour each week for something that’s purely for you - a dance class, a puzzle, a walk with a podcast or a hobby you loved years ago. Treat fun as essential, not an afterthought; it recharges your patience and motivation for everything else.
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Lighten the load Little routines make home life feel easier. Have a two-minute tidy-up to a song with the kids before bed or wear comfy ‘house shoes’ to signal it’s time to get things done. The aim isn’t a spotless house - it’s a calmer one. Each month, clear one area - a drawer, your handbag, the car boot or your finances. Sort your purse, redeem old vouchers, cancel unused subscriptions. Decluttering little by little helps you feel lighter and more in control.
Keep a gratitude journal
Keep a notebook by your bed and write down three things you’re grateful for each night or morning. When life feels hard, it helps you notice the positives that might otherwise go unseen and shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s working. Sometimes I just write three short sentences but it always makes me feel thankful for the life I have with my children and partner. It can also create moments of clarity about your goals, helping you see what’s genuinely important.
End the day calmly
Create a short bedtime routine just for you. We put so much effort into helping our children wind down - bath, pyjamas, story, lights out - yet rarely give ourselves the same care. Turn off screens thirty minutes before bed, wash your face, light a candle and wind down with a book, journal or quiet meditation. These small signals tell your body it’s time to rest, creating better sleep, a calmer mind and a gentler end to each day.
Families North West London 11
HEALTH
The invisible mental load and psychology of rest
By Dr Sasha Hall
As a psychologist and a parent of two young children, I have seen both professionally and personally how easily the invisible mental load builds up. This load is the ongoing, often unseen mental effort required to keep family life functioning. It includes not only the physical tasks of daily life but also the constant background thinking that ensures these tasks happen at the right time and in the right way. It is the invisible spreadsheet running quietly in the mind, updated in real time as family needs change. For many parents (generally mothers), this mental load can feel like carrying an endless list of responsibilities in their minds. It might include planning meals, remembering school events, booking appointments, checking that uniforms are ready and ensuring everyone has what they need for the day ahead. Alongside this are seasonal or longer-term considerations such as holidays, birthdays or preparing for school transitions. Even positive events, such as planning a family outing or helping with a costume for school, can add to the mental noise. These are all small, individual thoughts that combine into a continuous mental hum. In homes shared with partners or older children, there can also be what psychologists call cognitive unloading, where others rely on one person to hold or manage the shared mental information. Questions such as: ‘Where are my keys?’ or ‘What are we having for dinner?’ might seem trivial, but they represent moments where someone else is temporarily renting space in a parent’s mind. Over time, these repeated small intrusions can add to feelings of exhaustion and reduce the sense of mental clarity that is essential for wellbeing. When this happens frequently, the parent may begin to feel as though they are the project manager of the household, responsible for doing, remembering, prompting and anticipating. Research shows that cognitive rest is just as important as physical rest. Rest is not merely the absence of doing; it is the presence of mental recovery. When we rest effectively, the brain has the opportunity to consolidate memories, regulate emotions and restore executive functioning. These are the higher-order
skills that allow us to plan, problem-solve and make decisions. Just as muscles need recovery after exertion, our brains also need space to decompress and reorganise. Without sufficient rest, the brain’s capacity for emotional regulation and attention control diminishes. This can lead to increased irritability, forgetfulness and a sense of being mentally overloaded. For parents, especially mothers carrying multiple invisible demands, this may mean feeling less patient with children or partners and finding it harder to remain present in moments that should bring connection and enjoyment. The psychology of rest reminds us that rest is not indulgence but maintenance. It allows us to sustain the very skills that underpin both parenting and professional life. Creating even small opportunities for rest throughout the day can help regulate the nervous system and restore emotional balance. This might include brief moments of quiet reflection, mindful breathing or simply allowing the mind to wander without purpose. When rest is prioritised, parents often describe feeling more grounded, more able to engage meaningfully with their children and more confident in managing the continuous mental load. In essence, rest is not about doing less but about replenishing the mental space that allows us to think, care and respond effectively. Recognising and sharing the invisible work that goes on in our minds is the first step toward valuing rest as a psychological necessity rather than a luxury. Dr Sasha Hall is an HCPC-registered Senior Educational and Child Psychologist and founder of Hall & Co Educational Psychology Services (www.hallandcoeps.co.uk).
Make the invisible ‘visible’
The science of mental rest
Much of the mental load remains unseen because it is carried silently. Psychological research shows that when cognitive effort is invisible, others are less likely to appreciate its weight.
Mental rest does not always require sleep or silence. Research into attention restoration suggests that simply engaging in gentle, absorbing activities such as walking outdoors, listening to music or spending time in nature allows the brain to recover from focused thought. During rest, neural pathways related to creativity and problem-solving become more active. This helps restore a sense of clarity and perspective, enabling a parent to return to their daily roles with improved focus, emotional balance and a stronger sense of self.
Externalising these thoughts can help make them visible. This might involve sharing responsibilities through open discussion, writing down tasks that occupy mental space or gently drawing attention to how much co-ordination is involved in daily life. When the invisible becomes visible, families can develop a greater appreciation of one another’s mental and emotional contributions. 12 Families North West London
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What's On Family Theatre & Shows
The Alban Arena, St Albans 01727 844488 https://everyonetheatres.com/ theatres/the-alban-arena Thu 26 Feb Cirque Enchantment A Breathtaking Winter Spectacle for All Ages. Since captivating its first audiences, Cirque Enchantment has thrilled thousands with its unique blend of circus, music, and showstopping performances. Now, this beloved production returns, more breathtaking than ever! 7.30pm. Artsdepot, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk Sun 18 Jan Zoom! Molly knows everything about space. All the planets and their moons, even the number of Saturn’s rings. Everything! But when, one wintry night, Molly meets a visitor from outer space, she realises she still has a lot to learn about looking after our very own planet, Earth. A gentle introduction for young children into ways they can help to protect their environment. Ages 3-8 Sun 8 Feb Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland This show is brought to life by just two performers, a dozen colourful handmade puppets and a beautiful set that unfolds from a vintage trunk. Ages 3+ Thu 19 Feb The Great Big Bug Show Join poet Simon Mole and musician Gecko for a family show full of poems, raps and songs all about your favourite bugs (and some you haven’t heard of yet!). A fun & interactive invitation to explore the secret world beneath our feet. Ages 4-11 Fri 20 Feb Sleeping Beauty The Let’s All Dance Ballet Company returns with this much-loved ballet for the whole family. Dazzling dancers, Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous score and gorgeous costumes bring this glittering classical ballet to life. A good fairy turned evil by jealousy casts a bad spell on a young princess. But an act of pure love will undo her magic, restoring her heart and bringing peace and harmony to the whole kingdom. Ages 2-14 The Beck Theatre 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Tue 27–Wed 28 Jan Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show Peppa Pig and friends are back in their brand-new live stage show! With a new arrival on the way, the whole family is busy getting ready. There’s so much to do – will they get it all finished in time? Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show is packed full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones and is the perfect introduction to theatre.
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Chickenshed, N14 020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk Fri 16 Jan Baby Quiz Following the success of our Bring Your Own Baby comedy events, we’re excited to introduce a brandnew Baby Quiz! Gather your friends and little ones for a fun, babyfriendly quiz full of light-hearted competition, good company, and the chance to win a prize for the top team. Ages 0-2 Fri 27–Sat 28 Feb Encyclopaedia of Happiness When the pages of the Encyclopaedia of Happiness start to fade, joy begins disappearing from Joytopia! Join Professor O’Brian and his assistant Sunny on a magical, musical journey to find the Grand Philosopher and rescue happiness itself. But will they uncover the true meaning of happiness before it’s too late? Harrow Arts Centre Hatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com Sat 14–Mon 16 Feb Rapunzel! Let your hair down and get tangled in a brand-new musical adaptation of the classic fairy tale, RAPUNZEL! Award-winning Immersion Theatre proudly presents a hair-larious and exciting retelling of the family favourite, complete with a laugh-outloud script, catchy songs, audience interaction and stunning production value, including dazzling costumes and animated scenery, this February half term! Little Angel Theatre, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com Until Sat 24 Jan The Storm Whale Benji Davies’ tender and heartwarming children’s stories of friendship, love and courage are brought to life as one enchanting theatre show. Ages 4-8 Until Sun 25 Jan Me… The world is a very big place, especially for a tiny baby penguin who is just finding his feet. This early years favourite is a lovely and touching story about a parent and their love for their child by much loved children’s author Emma Dodd. The O2 Arena SE10 0208 463 2000 www.theo2.co.uk Sat 10–Sun 11 Jan Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live A live, family-friendly touring show featuring real-life, giant Hot Wheels Monster Trucks, where they compete in stunts, battles and obstacle courses, often with themed elements, plus Freestyle Motocross (FMX) and a transforming robot, with pre-show floor access.
Pump House, Watford WD17 01923 241 362 www.pumphouse.info
Fri 23–Sat 31 Jan Grease the Musical Grease is the word in Watford! Travel back to the 1950s and become part of the love story between good girl, Sandy Dumbrowski, and leatherclad greaser, Danny Zuko. Can their romance survive the challenges of high school life, or will peer pressure tear them apart? Thu 19–Sat 21 Feb Shrek Jr It’s a ‘big bright beautiful world’ as everyone’s favorite ogre, Shrek, leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and part twisted fairy tale, Shrek JR. is an irreverently fun show with a powerful message for all the family. Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 (16 Jul-18 Sep in Richmond TW10) 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Sun 25 Jan–Sun 15 Mar The Hare & The Tortoise The story of the most famous race on earth is beautifully brought to life using marionettes (string puppets). The Hare and the Tortoise is a production for all the family, featuring this classic story, plus many other tales from the famed storyteller Aesop. Ages 4-10 Sat 14–Sun 22 Feb The Insect Circus The Insect Circus invites the audience to forget reality and become immersed in the strange and beautiful world of the Insect Circus. Beetles and grasshoppers, wasps and dragonflies, demonstrate their dexterity with great skill and humour. Presented using marionettes, the show breathes new life into the traditional techniques used in Victorian trick marionettes. Ages 3-10 The Radlett Centre, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk
Fri 20 Feb Teddy Bears Picnic The show is full of songs, games, stories, fun and laughter and is suitable for under-5s, mums, dads, grandmas and grandads and teddy bears! Everyone is encouraged to bring their teddy bears along with them as there will be prizes for the biggest, smallest, oldest and friendliest. In fact, there is a lot of audience participation in this onehour show with lots of prizes and giveaways. 2 pm Watersmeet, WD3 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk Thu 15–Sat 17 Jan Annie Little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-tonothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of the Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. This all-time classic musical is a must for the whole family, with a great soundtrack and fabulous acting parts. A must for all the family. Watford Palace Theatre, WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Thu 19 Feb Fun for little ones - A tribute to Ms Rachel Get ready for giggles, singing, dancing, and non-stop fun as the magic of Ms Rachel comes to life on stage in an interactive, high-energy live tribute performance made just for little ones and their grownups! 12pm Winston Churchill Theatre HA4 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Thu 22 Jan Mother Goose Join us for a fun-filled pantomime brought to you by Argosy Players. 7.30pm
Thu 5–Sat 7 Feb The Tiger Who Came To Tea Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show, packed with oodles of magic, sing-along songs and clumsy chaos. Don’t miss this stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised! Sun 15 Feb Utterly Revolting Science Show Brace yourselves for the Rude Science team’s hilarious, hightech, highly-explosive new journey through the human body. On the surface, it’s a rollercoaster of disgusting experiments built to delight young audiences, but under the bonnet, it’s a brilliantly constructed, curriculum-driven adventure designed to inspire Britain’s kids with a lasting fascination for science.
NEXT ISSUE: March/April 2026
BOOK NOW!
To feature your business in our next issue, call Heather on 01923 237 004. Families North West London 13
WHAT’S ON
What's On
listings for all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw
To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing. Email Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.
Many activities and events require advance booking. Please check the website in the listing to confirm terms and conditions for attending before heading out.
JANUARY Until Sun 18 Jan Story Explorers: A journey through imaginary worlds (NW1) Take a free family trip through the collection at the British Library, and discover the stories behind objects which take you to wondrous places. Ages 2-7 years. https://events.bl.uk/exhibitions/ story-explorers Tue 6 Jan–Sun 26 Apr Playtime Memories (HA2) This mini display at Headstone Manor Museum celebrates the simple joy of childhood through the toys that shaped our earliest memories. From well-loved teddy bears to colourful building blocks and tin cars, these objects remind us how play helps us explore, imagine, and connect. Pause and revisit the wonder of growing up when imagination was limitless and every toy had a tale to tell. www.headstonemanor.org/events/ playtime-memories Sat 10 & Sat 24 Jan Make it: Trinket Trays (SW7) Join in for a fun, hands-on family workshop inspired by the Marie Antoinette Style exhibition at the V&A Museum. Experimenting with style, colour and texture from the Rococo period, you will be able to handbuild your own trinket box or tray using Porcelain clay. Personalise and decorate your trinkets or trays using coloured clay and slips. www.vam.ac.uk/event/ WabGblD3zzQ/make-it-trinkettrays-jan-2026 Sat 17 Jan Family Workshop: Magical Mandalas (HA2) Lose yourself in the ancient therapeutic art of Mandala making at Headstone Manor Museum. Produce colourful shapes using stamps and a die cutter. Then design and arrange a repeating pattern to create stunning visual effects. Ages 5+. www.headstonemanor.org/events/ family-workshop-magical-mandalas Sat 17 Jan LGBTQ+ Family Network at the National Maritime Museum (SE10) Pop in with your family and join in with artist-led activities inspired by Greenwich, the maritime world, and LGBTQ+ histories. Together you can explore, create and get to know other families within the Network. 11am-1pm. www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/nationalmaritime-museum/lgbtq-familynetwork Mon 19 Jan Positive Discipline (online) As a parent it can be exciting and satisfying seeing your children grow into unique individuals and also challenging when they decide they want things their own way. You will look at parenting your children with respect, making sure it’s consistent 14 Families North West London
and firm but fair, ensuring you create a long lasting positive relationship. An online workshop for all parents/carers with children aged 3-11 years. www.learnharrow.ac.uk Fri 23-Sun 25 Jan RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch (various) Big Garden Birdwatch is the world’s largest garden wildlife survey. Every year, hundreds of thousands of nature lovers like you take part, helping to build a picture of how garden birds are faring. Head to the RSPB website to take part. www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/ big-garden-birdwatch Sat 24 Jan Trinity Orchestra Performs ‘The Planets’ (HA5) Trinity Orchestra returns to Harrow Arts Centre with Holst’s magnificent The Planets – a dazzling, celestial journey that has captivated audiences for over a century. Conducted by Andrew Morley, this unmissable concert from Harrow’s celebrated local orchestra promises an evening of rhythm, beauty and wonder. www.harrowarts.com/whats-on/ event/trinity-orchestra-performsthe-planets Mon 26 Jan Setting Limits & Defining Boundaries (online) Generally children need to know where they stand and what the rules are. As children hurtle along the path of growth and development, one of the main roles parents can play is to provide boundaries that help to contain, guide them and keep them safe. A two hour online workshop for parents /carers of children aged 3-11. www.learnharrow.ac.uk Mon 26 Jan–Sun 19 Apr Pokémon x Natural History Museum (SW7) In January Pokémon celebrates its thirtieth anniversary, and so the Natural History Museum are bringing an exclusive pop-up shop to fans, with exclusive products designed especially for this collaboration. It will be Pokémon’s first pop-up of its kind with a UK museum! Booking required. www.nhm.ac.uk/events/pokemonpop-up-shop.html Sat 31 Jan The Sea Shanty Festival (AL1) St Alban’s Cathedral comes to life with the spirit of the sea! Head along from 12.30-3.30pm for a family Sea Shanty Festival under The Whales. Enjoy a family-friendly session with three groups, food and drink and a joyful, relaxed atmosphere. www.stalbanscathedral.org/Event/ sea-shanty Sat 31 Jan–Sun 1 Feb January Steam Up (TW8) Discover the fascinating world of water and steam at the London Museum of Water & Steam ‘Steam Up’! Share in the history and energy of the Kew Bridge Waterworks and
marvel at the amazing working pumping engines that helped make London the city it is today. www.waterandsteam.org.uk
FEBRUARY Mon 2 Feb Social Media: Friend or Foe? Keeping Teens Safe Online (online) This workshop will look at increasing your understanding of social media, the impacts and how to keep your teens safe online. www.learnharrow.ac.uk Sat 7 Feb Out at Sea (SE10) Visit the National Maritime Museum for a family-friendly festival celebrating LGBTQ+ history. Take part in creative workshops and see live performances for all ages. 11am-4pm. www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/nationalmaritime-museum/out-sea Sat 7 Feb–Sun 1 Mar Putting the House to Bed Tour (HP18) Explore Waddesdon house in its ‘put to bed’ state with a knowledgeable guide. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the rooms in the house, explore inside the collection stores, learn about the conservation techniques used to care for the collection and view the academic apartments, never normally open to the public. Weekends only, 1am & 1pm. www.waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/ putting-the-house-to-bed-tour Sat 7 Feb–Sun 8 Mar Orchids at Kew Gardens (TW9) The 2026 festival takes inspiration from China’s remarkable biodiversity, heritage and design traditions, filling the Princess of Wales glasshouse with a dazzling array of orchids and largescale floral installations. www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whatson/orchids-china Mon 9 Feb Online Workshop: Supporting Teen Stress (online) This two hour workshop will help you discover the key insights that will help
you to support your Teen(s) through the challenges of stress. You will gain valuable knowledge and practical tools to navigate the complexities associated with stress. For all parents/carers of children aged 10+. 7-9pm www.learnharrow.ac.uk Sat 14–Fri 20 Feb February Half Term at London Museum Docklands (E14) Dig into the past this February half term with a week of hands-on history. Shape your own clay Roman pot, craft shiny Viking brooches and dive into captivating tales from the past in these fun, free family events exploring what mudlarking has taught us about our history. www.londonmuseum.org.uk/whatson/february-half-term Sat 14–Sun 22 Feb Bill the Duck Week (HA2) Join the mascot Bill as he explores Headstone Manor Museum. Get creative with quacking art cart activities and see how many Bills you can spot! www.headstonemanor.org/events/ bill-the-duck-week Sat 14–Sun 22 Feb February Half Term: STEM Week (NW9) Take the family to the RAF Museum for a week of madcap experiments, GIANT bubbles & high-energy laser tag — perfect for curious kids and grown-ups who still love a bit of aviation magic. www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london/ whats-going-on/february-half-termstem-week Sat 14–Sun 22 Feb Mudfest 2026 (SW13) Grab your wellies and get stuck in with Mudfest - where messy means fun at the London Wetland Centre! For one week only this February half term, embrace the mess and discover just how brilliant mud can be with handson activities. Daily from 10am-4 pm. www.wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/london/whats-on/events/ mudfest-2026
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WHAT’S ON Sat 14–Sun 22 Feb Carry Your Story (SE1) For February half term, head to the Imperial War Museum London for a vibrant programme of FREE creative activities designed for children aged 5+ and their grown-ups. www.iwm.org.uk/events/familyactivities-iwm-london Sun 15 Feb Chinese New Year Culture Show 2026 (WD17) Step into a world of colour, rhythm, and celebration as you welcome the Year of the Horse at Watford Palace Theatre! Enjoy a dazzling lineup of performances including lion and dragon dances, folk and classical music and martial arts. All ages. watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk/ events/chinese-new-year-cultureshow-2026 Sun 15 Feb Cancer Research UK London Winter Run (WC2N) The Cancer Research UK London Winter Run is a ten kilometre challenge through the heart of the capital. You will pass live music performances, encounter largerthan-life winter characters and see world famous landmarks. It’s an unforgettable journey for runners of all abilities. www.londonwinterrun.co.uk Sun 15–Fri 20 Feb February Half Term at the National Maritime Museum (SE10) From storytelling and singing workshops to maritime crafts and marvellous history, there’s something for all ages at the National Maritime Museum. www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/nationalmaritime-museum/february-halfterm-national-maritime-museum Mon 16 Feb Games and Activities in Ruislip Woods (HA4) Join in a gentle stroll, playing games and learning about Ruislip Woods as you walk. This family walk will start and end at the Woodlands Centre at Ruislip Lido and be followed by arts and crafts at the Woodland Centre. 11am-12.30pm. https://discover.hillingdon.gov. uk/games-and-activities?event id=7223-1045-6776-0762 Tue 17 Feb Arts and Crafts at the Woodland Centre (HA4) Enjoy arts and crafts at the Woodland Centre in Ruislip Woods. Ages 4+. 1-3pm. https://discover.hillingdon. gov.uk/arts-and-crafts?event id=7416-1057-5351-6068
Tue 17–Thu 19 Feb February Half Term: S-T-E-M Aircraft Access (NW9) Guided 50-minute sessions with access to the Bristol Sycamore, Harker Tempest, English Electric Canberra and Gloster Meteor at the RAF Museum. Ages 8+. www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london/ whats-going-on/february-half-terms-t-e-m-aircraft-access Tue 17–Thu 19 Feb Tring: Cold-blooded Animals (HP23) Take an up-close look at and handle the specimens in this free-flowing tabletop activity at The Natural History Museum at Tring. Touch their scales or feel their smooth skin as you find out how these animals keep themselves warm and how they cope during cold weather. Ages 3+. www.nhm.ac.uk/events/tring-coldblooded-animals.html Wed 18 Feb Family Workshop: Duck Pong (HA2) It’s Bill the Duck Week at Headstone Manor Museum! In this workshop, you will be making a lucky duck from recycled materials and a glorious shoe box. You will be drawing, cutting, collaging and counting. For ages 5+. www.headstonemanor.org/events/ family-workshop-duck-pong Wed 18 Feb Lion Dancing Family Workshop (HA5) This Lunar New Year, head to Harrow Arts Centre for a vibrant, cultural family Lion Dancing workshop! The Lion Dance is an energetic and iconic Chinese tradition believed to bring good luck during significant events and celebrations. This Lion Dance workshop offers a unique experience that promotes coordination, teamwork and physical fitness. Ages 7+. www.harrowarts.com/whats-on/ event/lion-dancing-workshop
and Bulgarian tradition of Martisor/ Martenitsa, you will handcraft your own symbolic charms from clay. For families with children aged 7+. www.harrowarts.com/whats-on/ event/clay-martisor-familyworkshop Thu 19 Feb Raffia Embroidery Workshop (SE1) Join designer and maker Tihara Smith at the Imperial War Museum for a fun, hands-on workshop inspired by Caribbean craft and storytelling. Families with children aged 8+ will learn raffia embroidery - a colourful textile technique - and create a mini hoop artwork using symbols, patterns, and words that reflect who you are. www.iwm.org.uk/events/familyactivities-iwm-london Fri 20 Feb SEND Monster Book of Feelings Workshop (HA5) To mark Children’s Mental Health Month, join storyteller and author Amie Taylor on Ice Island this half term, for a morning of storytelling, drama and craft at Harrow Arts Centre. For ages 5+ with SEND. www.harrowarts.com/whats-on/ event/send-monsters-book-offeelings-workshop Sat 21 Feb Lunar New Year (SE10) Get ready to celebrate the Year of the Horse at the National Maritime Museum - welcome in the new year with a day of celebration, performances and activities. www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/nationalmaritime-museum/lunar-new-year Sat 21–Sun 22 Feb Lunar New Year festival at London Museum Docklands (E14) Gallop into the Year of the Horse in this weekend-long family festival just
a stone’s throw away from London’s original Chinatown in Limehouse. Listen to classic Chinese folktales, make tasty tangyuan, explore traditional Vietnamese fashion, master martial arts moves and much more in this celebration that spans cultures and countries. www.londonmuseum.org.uk/whatson/lunar-new-year Sun 22 Feb The Hugglets Winter BearFest 2026 (W8) Featuring a great lineup of well-known artists and new faces from the UK, Australia, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, Ukraine and the US. Both antique and modern bears will be there, plus clothes and accessories, as well as bear-making supplies. It is going to be a marvellous day at Kensington Town Hall. https://hugglets.com Sat 28 Feb Dawnosaurs: Relaxed Morning Visit (SW7) Enjoy the the Natural History Museum, free from the hustle and bustle of the general public. Visitors have access to a wide range of galleries and activities supported by and led by experienced, neurodivergent-aware facilitators. 8-10am. www.nhm.ac.uk/events/ dawnosaurs.html Sun 1 Mar Family Concert (HA4) Join Hillingdon Philharmonic Orchestra at Winston Churchill Theatre for a family concert featuring stage and screen favourites. https://discover.hillingdon. gov.uk/family-concert?event id=2917-9834-2832-9062
Wed 18 & Fri 20 Feb Depot Family Tours (WC2E) Exclusively for family groups, head to the London Transport Museum Depot in Acton, west London to uncover stories about the very special vehicles in the collection. From the tons of poo that accompanied the first horse buses, to why trains have bogies, take a highlights tour of the Bus and Train Sheds. www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/ family-events/depot-family-tours Thu 19 Feb Clay Martisor Family Workshop (HA5) Celebrate creativity, connection and culture in this special familyfriendly workshop at Harrow Arts Centre! Inspired by the Romanian
Try a confidence-boosting Perform class Help your child build confidence, creativity and social skills with Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for ages 4 to 7 and 7 to 12. Children have the chance to shine in a magical end-ofterm performance: Midnight in the Toyshop (4 to 7) and Outlaw (7 to 12). Try a FREE class in Harrow, Ickenham, Northwood, Pinner, Ruislip, Stanmore and Watford. To book, visit www.perform.org.uk/try Familiesonline.co.uk
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16 Families North West London
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