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Issue 47: Nov-Dec 2012

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Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

includes local 'What's On' for families with children 0-Teens

In this issue: Where to find Santa (we've found him!)

Christmas Gift Guide WIN: Theatre tickets and a ÂŁ200 Shopping Spree Stagecoach Theatre Arts

www.stagecoach.co.uk

The original, largest and still the best network of performing arts schools in the world. Cheam Coulsdon Croydon Epsom Merton Park Mitcham Shirley Sutton Worcester Park

020 8224 2442 0845 078 0805 0845 265 7083 020 8642 3500 020 8942 3502 020 8942 3502 020 8949 1116 020 8651 1909 020 8224 2442

Call us on 020 8669 5187 or email Editor@Families-LSB.co.uk

news & views Editor: Izabella Shaw 0208 669 5187 editor@Families-LSB.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk Stockist Details: aden + anais www.adenandanais.co.uk 020 7801 6279 ‘Families London-Surrey Borders’ is part of a group of magazines headed by ‘Families South West’ established in 1990. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and its agents cannot be held responsible for loss or damage, or for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted are sent at owners risk and, whilst every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for any loss or damage. Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd 01256 300420, Basingstoke, Hants RG21 6XN. © 2012 Families London-Surrey Borders.

Contents News and views . . . . . . . . . 2 - 3 Parenting and early years . . . . . 4 - 5 Encouraging your child to read . . 6 - 7 Left-handedness and school . . . . . 8 Education news . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Clubs, classes and activities . . . . . 10 Christmas gift ideas . . . . . . 11 - 12 Pantomimes and theatre . . . . 13 - 14 Christmas Lights . . . . . . . . . . .15 Santa’s Grottos . . . . . . . . 15 - 20 Holiday camps and classes . . . . . .21 Diary dates for families . . . . . . . 22 Diary dates for grown-ups . . . . . .22 Competitions & give-aways . . . . . 23 Classified advertisers . . . . . . . . 23

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Drop (your children) while you shop – Croydon Need to flash round the shops or have some retail therapy on your own? But what to do with the children? Mums and dads shopping in Croydon have a new service they can use. Shantel Brand, a Croydon mum of three, has come to the rescue. With the support of The Prince’s Trust she has set up Relief Crèche Care. Situated in spacious premises on Surrey Street, the crèche offers short-term care for children while their parents/carers visit the shops or other facilities in central Croydon. All at the crèche are committed to safeguarding children, and their Child Protection Policies and Procedures adhere to the standards developed by Croydon’s Safeguarding Children Board (CSCB) Currently, the crèche is open on Saturdays between 10.00 – 4.00pm (last booking 3.00pm), and offers one or two hour sessions at £4.00 and £6.50 respectively. Siblings can attend for free. Booking ahead is advisable. Now there’s no excuse to avoid doing your Christmas shopping! 07852 768 360 Croydon Conference Centre, 5-9 Surrey Street, CR0 1RG www.reliefcrechecare.co.uk

Stop the bullies in anti-bullying week this November Find out more about Anti-Bullying Week, which takes place 19 - 23 November this year with the theme ‘We’re better without bullying’. See www.antibullyingweek.co.uk for details of anti-bullying resources, workshops and roadshows, as well as the Anti-Bullying Week competition where you can win £100’s worth of prizes for you and your school.

Hobbledown author inspires local school children An author who saw her book come to life when an adventure park was built after it, has made a motivational visit to pupils at Epsom Primary School. Angela Kecojevic, whose book Hobbledown is the basis for the new Epsom-based adventure park and farm of the same name, visited the youngsters during September to talk about her popular novel. Hobbledown is a classic tale of adventure, magic and mayhem and Angela’s trip to Epsom Primary was the first in her series of Riddles, Rhymes and Mysterical Times creative writing workshops. During the session Angela told the children about her life as a writer, how her book was created and how it links to the magical land of Hobbledown. The mum-of-three then got the pupils using their imaginations to create their own stories. If you would like to book Angela Kecojevic to visit your school, please email her at ajkecojevic@yahoo.com -– see website for full details – www.hobbledown.com

New Community Centre Opens in Croydon A new community centre in North Croydon opened in July. The operators hope that organisers of drama workshops, training sessions and other activities will hire the hall for classes on a regular basis. It is run by Bensham Manor Community Association (BMCA), a small community group for the people of Bensham Manor, registered as a charity. They have called it ‘Queens’. Located in Turner Crescent in the middle of the new Queensgate development off Pawsons Road and close to Croydon University Hospital in London Road, it has a large hall that can be partitioned to provide two smaller, cosy halls, meeting room, kitchen and toilets. To hire the centre for a party, run activities or just to find out more information about the centre and activities or to volunteer please call 07784 908960 or email bm.ca@hotmail.com

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November-December 2012

news & views News in Brief–full stories at www.families-LSB.co.uk/articles

Want an office party with a difference? try Kidspace

The Bentall Centre is offering a break to buggy-burdened mums and dads on 21 November, with the introduction of the UK’s very first ‘Buggy Valet’ service.

Kidspace, the indoor adventure play centre in Croydon, is being hired out for adult-only parties this Christmas, perfect for somewhere people can have their office bash.

Cheam Lawn Tennis Club has secured Sports Lottery Funding to provide free exercise classes for local women. ‘Chatting with Children’. is the name of the third activity pack from I CAN, the children’s communication charity. The latest pack follows the success of ‘Babbling Babies’ and ‘Toddler Talk’, two activity packs launched last year to help parents enhance their children’s speaking and listening skills. EcoLocal’s Environmental Fair competition in Sutton was won by Karen Eeles and her son Alexander. To receive EcoLocal’s news, and be in with a chance to win future prizes, visit ecolocal.org.uk Mayor of London awards Music scholarships – do you have a talented young musician who could benefit from a scholarship? For more details visit www.mfym.org.uk Legs, Bums and Mums is an outdoor fitness class in which mothers take part with their babies in local parks and other outdoor areas. Local mum of two, Maria Holley is now running the classes. For information about Maria’s classes in Wallington & Caterham contact her at maria@legsbumsandmums.com For the full stories go to www.families-LSB.co.uk/articles

Wear a hat on 28 March for Brain tumour research ‘Wear a Hat Day’ is a fun way of increasing awareness and getting people raising money for an often overlooked form of cancer. It’s a day every year when charities encourage people to make donations in order to wear a hat to school, at work, or even at home. From sponsored silences to charity runs and school bake sales, educational facilities around the country are being encouraged to raise money in any way they can.

The Kidspace team hope people will love recreating their childhood on their adventure play equipment including Go Karts and the black hole slide. Contact Kidspace Adventures on 0208 686 0040. or visit www.kidspaceadventures.com

Looking for an alternative to kennels for your dog? Wagging Tails is a new operation in Kingston that aims to provide a home for your dog while you are away. Unlike kennels, the Wagging Tails service finds accommodation with a willing dog-owner. It is a franchise operation, run in the KT postcode area by Carene Alexander. Owners describe their dogs as happy and healthy looking when they pick them up after their stay. I’ve had some lovely emails and phone calls from happy owners, some of which are on the website,” said Carene. Wagging Tails take on “carers” who are all experienced past, and in some cases present, dog owners. They are all at home during the day to offer dogs in their care all the love, exercise and attention they are used to at home. Owners and their dogs must meet Wagging Tails licensed and insured carers for what is known as a “sniffing out meeting”. Carene is looking for more like-minded dog lovers to join her team of carers across the KT postcode area. Wagging Tails dog boarding service is recommended and used by many pet professionals including Vets and Groomers. Tel: 01483 592 612 www.waggingtailsuk.co.uk/kt

All you ever needed to make a special birthday cake My Birthday Cake is a new online business, based in Epsom, stocking a wide range of children’s cake decorations, plus a selection of novelty cake tins for hire. Whatever the theme of your child’s party, there will be something to make their birthday cake extra-special: candles, cupcake cases and cake toppers to match popular birthday themes for younger children, from pirates and dinosaurs to fairies and princesses.

Sue Farrington-Smith, Director of Brain Tumour Research, comments: “Brain tumour research receives less than 1% of national cancer research spending in the UK yet this deadly disease kills more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer so please get involved on March 28th”.

For the really little ones there is a selection of animal-themed decorations, plus items for that special first birthday cake.

www.mybirthdaycake.co.uk or www.facebook.com/mybirthdaycake.uk

Free Drama Class Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singing classes. Our weekly workshops will do wonders for their social, linguistic and physical development as well as being the best fun they’ll have all week.

Classes for 4 –12 year o ld perform.org s .uk

perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk 3

0845 400 1273

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November-December 2012

parenting and early years Dads need support, too

The Story Mouse is a collection of the world’s best-loved stories and fairy tales, all brought together in one collection for the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch.

Fathers Reaching Out is a support group for men whose wives or partners are suffering from postnatal depression.

The titles are those we all grew up with from Jack & the Beanstalk to Goldilocks & the Three Bears; from The Gingerbread Man to The Three Little Pigs. These stories have stood the test of time for a reason – simply because they’re great tales which children love. All the books operate in a choice of modes: “Read it to me” (where the pages turn automatically and the voice reads the story), or “Read it myself’ (where the voice is turned off and the child advances the pages at their own pace, effectively turning the app into a normal book).www.thestorymouse.com

British Red Cross challenges parents to take the First Aid Challenge A nationwide campaign to get all parents learning first aid was launched in October and runs to the end of the year.

Business Mums Wanted Successful local business is seeking five partners to work part time from home without compromising family commitments If you have a Managerial, Sales, Marketing, Recruitment or Self-Employed background, and you wish to develop a more balanced lifestyle around your family's needs please call:

Katie 01737 766403 or 07909 681884

babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

The vast majority of parents agree all parents should have basic first aid knowledge – but two thirds don’t feel confident, or worry they would do something wrong. In a survey of over 2,000 parents [undertaken by Bounty’s Word of Mum panel], 96% of respondents agreed that all parents should have some first aid knowledge. The study identified the main fears of parents as choking, treating an unconscious baby or child and meningitis. Despite this, many parents struggle to find the time to learn how to treat these cases. Signing up to the First Aid Challenge is completely free and each participant will receive information on how to deal with day-to-day mishaps confidently and updates about free first aid demonstrations across the UK. Alternatively, if parents prefer to keep a “how-to” hard-copy in the house, a brand new First Aid manual focussing on treatment for babies and children is available now, priced £10.99. For free first aid advice, videos and to sign up to the First Aid Challenge, go to their website: www.redcross.org.uk/firstaidchallenge

Working together to make the best choice for you and your family. Parental Choice is the essential “one-stop shop” for your childcare needs and advice on your legal rights before, during and after pregnancy. 4 Childcare options clearly presented 4 Employment legal rights explained 4 Nanny employment and payroll services.

Our services include:

4 4 4 4 4 4

Advice on maternity and paternity employment rights Complete childcare package sourced for you Guidance on all your childcare options and the costs Nursery search to find the best nursery closest to you Advice on employing nannies Bespoke employment contracts and payroll services.

Parental Choice: dedicated to helping you make the right choices for you and your family.

When a woman is suffering it can have a massive effect on their partners - men can find themselves having to carry out all the main duties at home whilst working, caring for their wife and their new born child, with sometimes other children at home too. These responsibilities can cause a lot of stress, but the website provides an outlet where men can express their feelings and emotions without being judged, and talk to others who have been in the same position. The focus of the site is to provide men with the support they need to cope at this difficult time. www.fathersreachingout.com, 07400 785558 Fathersreachingout@yahoo.co.uk

Think about adopting this month Every child deserves a family, and this 5 - 11 November sees the annual National Adoption Week. Since its launch in 1997, National Adoption Week has gone from strength to strength, reaching people across the UK who want to know more about adoption. National Adoption Week is important in reminding people about the backgrounds of the children waiting for adoption and the difference adoption can make to a child’s life. It also attracts people wanting to find out about their own adoption or about a child they put up for adoption. www.nationaladoptionweek.org.uk.

Baby Fitness classes open in Tudor Drive Baby Fitness is a fantastic fun new Martial Arts based fitness class aimed at 2 to 4 year olds. The class is run by Sophie Mitchell, a 2nd degree black belt Martial Arts instructor with Fighting Fit. Sophie has worked with children for 14 years, as a nursery nurse, nanny (coming runner up in Nanny of the Year 2008) and as Fighting Fit’s chief children’s instructor, so understands the needs of young children well. As there was nothing like it for young children in the area, Sophie set up her Baby Fitness class, initially within a local preschool. Due to its success and demand, she has opened another public class on Mondays, 9.30 to 10am, during term time at St George’s Pavillion, Tudor Drive, Morden, SM4 4PN (near Stonecot Hill). The class improves children’s balance, co ordination, confidence, concentration and much more.

www.parentalchoice.co.uk Please use code: FMPC1 for a 5% discount

Read classic children’s books on the iPad

Call Sophie on 0780 1837778, or email sophie.mitchell1@hotmail.co.uk

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November-December 2012

parenting and early years

Your rights when returning to work

The ability to return to work after you have had your children should be a right not a privilege and yet so many mothers have difficulty in returning to work after they have taken maternity leave or a career break. Here, Sarah-Jane Butler, Director, Parental Choice explains the position

A woman who has taken up to 52 weeks maternity leave has the right to return to exactly the same job that she left. She can return to work at any time before the end of her maternity leave provided she gives her employer at least eight weeks’ notice of the date she intends to return to work. If the original job was full-time and she would prefer to work on a more flexible basis, she has the right to request flexible working.

dramatically. A survey in 2011 found that there was a “striking correlation between employees being ‘happy with their work-life balance given their working arrangement’ on the one hand and employer flexibility and practical support.” Happiness at work means greater commitment and productivity. A win-win situation for employers and employees alike especially since, for each woman that leaves work, it can cost up to three times her salary to replace her. Ultimately, the key for women wanting to return to work is to be properly prepared and to understand their rights.

Although the law may be clear on the principles, sadly the reality is not always so straightforward. Requesting flexible working, for example, has to be carried out according to particular statutory guidelines and even then, although you have the right to request flexible working, you don’t have the right to have that request automatically accepted. Your employer can refuse on a number of grounds and you cannot make another request within the following 12 months. In addition women are often reluctant to request flexible working as they believe that “flexible working will/would adversely affect their career progression in [their] company”.

For further information contact Parental Choice, which says it is an essential “one-stop shop” to help parents with decisions on childcare needs and advise on legal rights during and after pregnancy. www.ParentalChoice.co.uk

Flexible working and career prospects

Over 54% of employees who responded to a recent survey were concerned that flexibility may negatively affect their career. Unfortunately there is still an attitude, in many workplaces, that if individuals request a flexible working pattern they are not “serious” about their careers. This concern has been further evidenced in a survey of 800 women solicitors, which suggested that half of women lawyers considered that solicitors who took up flexible working were ‘viewed as less serious about their careers’. The majority of flexible working proposals are requested by the individuals needing to manage their childcare and this is still largely a responsibility borne by the women and it is, therefore, mothers who primarily bear the brunt of such attitudes. It is not all doom and gloom. Attitudes and policies are slowly changing. The Government concluded a consultation last year on modern workplaces which considered the reform of flexible working. That’s all very well, you might say, but will that change my employer’s attitude? Firstly if is enshrined in law, they will have no choice. Secondly, employers are slowly discovering that a lack of availability of flexible working patterns, as well as their poor utilisation, is a key factor in women leaving their jobs.

Hands up

By promoting flexible working and offering more family friendly policies, the likelihood of key employees remaining in their roles increases

if you are thinking about fostering....

BABY FITNESS

KING GEORGE’S PAVILION, TUDOR DRIVE, MORDEN, SM4 4PN

Mondays 9:30am - 10.00am

A fantastic fun new martial arts based fitness class, aimed at 2 – 4 year olds. Improves:

Click on our website for more information about fostering

• Balance • Co-ordination • Flexibility • Agility

• Confidence • Concentration • Communication • And more!

Warning! Extreme enjoyment expected!! Sophie Mitchell 07801 837 778 sophie.mitchell1@hotmail.co.uk 5

Sutton needs more foster carers – especially those who have the time, patience and understanding to look after older children and teenagers.

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

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We look forward to hearing from you.

020 8770 6672 Web: www.suttonfostering.org.uk Tel:

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November-December 2012

education

How to encourage reading Many of us know the value and enjoyment of reading. Good readers become better writers, better learners and well rounded individuals. Taking an active part in helping your children become interested in reading is vital. Despite busy days, tired kids, limited time and many distractions, we outline five simple steps that can help.

Encourage activities that require reading, e.g. read a recipe, instructions, and directions, play games that require reading, use a reference book to look up something you have seen.

By Elisabeth Dolton

Set up a time for reading every day

Decide when and where a reading session will take place, which fits into your household schedule, and keep it. 10 minutes is fine.

Visit the library and give your child their own library card. They can choose their own library book or listen in on story-time.

Encourage your child to read aloud. They don’t have to get every word right, and praise them often. If they are discouraged by their own reading, you read aloud. The pleasure of listening to you read can restore their enthusiasm. Offer to read every other sentence, page, chapter, and have conversations and discussions about the content.

Be a role model

Let your children see you reading for pleasure. Read aloud everyday items - menus, road signs, food labels.  Give books as gifts.  Leave books, magazines, and colourful catalogues around your home.  Write short notes for your child to read.

Make it fun. Children love sound effects, different voices, pulling faces.

Reading opens up new worlds to your children and gives them a chance to use their imaginations. There are many ways to encourage your child to read, and the best ways always include participation on your part.

Use special incentives, e.g. an extra 5 minutes to finish a chapter, a promise to take them to see the film of the book, sticker charts and certificates.

 Use audio books

During reading time

Introduce the bookmark. Stop after a few pages and pick up where you left off at another time Provide an accessible, special place for children to keep their own books

Notice what attracts your children’s attention, even if it’s only pictures, and build on that interest. Gather more information on the same subject. Listen to audio books (in the car too). These help develop visualisation, a critical pre-reading skill. Let them choose their books. Don’t worry if the books are too young or too easy, early reading success can came from several “non-traditional” sources such as comics. Buy a special notebook and record all the books they have read, add their thoughts and a star rating.

Helping reading for children with learning difficulties

Vote for your favourite Children’s Book

Children nationwide are invited to vote for their favourite of the ten short listed books in the 2013 Red House Children’s Book Award. Category winners and the author of the best children’s book will be announced on Saturday 23 February 2013. Previous winners include J.K. Rowling, Patrick Ness, Michael Morpurgo, Andy Stanton, Malorie Blackman and Anthony Horowitz. A dedicated website (below) showcases all the short listed titles and featured authors. Any child can vote for their favourite book until 27 January 2013. www.redhousechildrensbookaward.co.uk

See the teacher and judge where they are

Find out what reading program the school follows, get to know the levels, and aim to supplement the program at home.

Prepare a timetable. Know what level your child is at and the next, with some idea of when it can be achieved. There is no race to be the first to read, it just puts things into context.

Plan specific reading linked activities

Extend your child’s positive reading experiences, e.g. If they enjoyed reading about dinosaurs, visit the Natural History Museum.

Use a combination of regular book and audio book. Follow the text on the page as the audio book plays. Listen to a chapter, and then read it together  Turn on the TV subtitles Sub-titles on your TV or DVD help increase sight word vocabulary, whilst developing a sense of flow of written and spoken language  Make your child the star of their own audio book Your child can read into a recorder, then follow the book together during playback.  Everyone joins in

Reserve thirty minutes each evening for family reading time. Each family member reads different material and then shares information about it, or take turns reading aloud from the same book.

Support their learning

Help ensure your child doesn’t get behind in reading material necessary for school subjects, ask for help with obtaining textbooks on CD ROM. Together identify unfamiliar words you come across and show your child how to look up the meanings of words. Children with specific learning difficulties and dyslexia could benefit from the PQ4R strategy (http://learningdisabilities.about.com/od/instructionalmaterials/a/pq4rstrategy.htm)

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November-December 2012

education Why young children should read books rather than watch screens Online and high-street book retailer The Works has noticed an increase in children’s books sales relating to children’s television series† and has launched an investigation into why reading books is better for young children’s development than watching screens. In light of recent controversy over the psychological and physical damage that watching TV can cause young children, The Works has interviewed professionals in the field, including children’s literacy expert, Dr Sandra Williams, and the National Literacy Trust, to establish the benefits of reading books. Dr Sandra Williams said: “Reading a book, together with the tactile turning of the page is pleasurable and a good picture book has qualities that may not be found in electronic media.” Child development is important, she said, and many good quality picture books help this by inviting active participation and involvement. Significantly the authors/illustrators leave gaps for the readers to fill. “There is a tension between text and picture that invites consideration.” The Works hopes that the printed book will survive the digital revolution. Reading doesn’t provide ready-made answers; it leaves room for imagination and extended periods of focus. This is increasingly important in today’s multi-media world, in which the over-abundance of information can be heavily distracting. Conal Presho, Head of Development at the National Literacy Trust, agrees: “Only time will tell if print books will be excluded from children’s reading

altogether, although it seems unlikely… There is an inherent value in a book as a physical item, particularly when given as a gift. We are also very aware that print books are currently much more accessible to those from disadvantaged backgrounds and printed books can be more easily shared or passed on from child to child.” The Works is keen to promote the exploration of words, sounds, stories and writing amongst young children and will continue working alongside experts and parents to ensure the rightful survival of the book. In addition to their online store they have a chain of 300 stores across the United Kingdom and say they are proud to be Britain’s leading discount book store. To see the range of children’s books and other products they stock or for the location of your local stores in Epsom, Sutton & Croydon visit their website at www.theworks.co.uk For the full story go to www.families-LSB.co.uk/articles † Top-selling TV-based books include Dr Seuss, The Mr Men, Horrid Henry, Horrible Histories, Thomas The Tank Engine and Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Chinthurst, Tadworth, KT20, 01737 812011, Call for Nov open day details, www.chinthurstschool.co.uk City of London Freemen’s, Ashtead Park, KT21, 01372 822423, Sat 10 Nov: 9.45am, www.clfs.surrey.sch.uk Downsend (Main school), Leatherhead, KT22, 01372 372311, Fri 16 Nov open morning - Headmaster’s Talk 9:30 am, www.downsend.co.uk Downsend Lodges, Epsom, Ashtead & Leatherhead, KT17, 21, 22, 01372 372311, Thu 10 Nov: 9.15am, www.downsend.co.uk Ewell Castle Junior and Senior, Ewell, KT17, 020 8393 1413, Wed 7 Nov: 9.30 - 10.30 (whole school), www.ewellcastle.co.uk Greenacre School, Banstead, SM7, 01737 352114, Sat 14 Nov: 10.30- 12.30 Prospective parents’ morning, www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk Oakhyrst Grange, Caterham, CR3, 01883 343344, Fri 25 Jan 2013 10.00 - 12.00, www.oakhyrstgrangeschool.co.uk Old Palace School of John Whitgift Junior, Croham site, S. Croydon, CR2, 020 8688 2027, Sat 1 Dec 2.00 - 4.00 (book place online), www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Old Palace School of John Whitgift Senior, Old Palace site, S. Croydon, CR0, 020 8688 2027, Sat 24 Nov 2.00 - 4.00 (book place online), www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Priory Preparatory, Banstead, SM7, 01737 366920, Wed 14 Nov & Wed 12 Dec - pop-in mornings: 9.00 - 11.00, www.prioryprep.co.uk Sutton High, Sutton, SM1, 020 8225 3001, Thu 8 Nov: 10.00 onwards (Senior school only), www.suttonhigh.gdst.net Thames Christian College, Battersea, SW11, 020 7228 3933, Thu 8 Nov: 11.00 - 1.00pm, www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk Warlingham Park, Warlingham, CR6, 01883 626844, By appointment, www.warlinghamparkschool.com 7

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November-December 2012

education

Supporting your Left-handed child

1 in 10 children are left-handed, but many fail to get the support they need in the early years of their education. Experts say teachers aren’t given the proper training and schools don’t have the right resources. Sarah Butters is mum to a left-handed daughter. She takes a look at some of the most common problems faced by left-handers and some tips for helping them out.

Messy handwriting

you can end up erasing as you write. Good grip and placement of the board gives left-handers half a chance. However if your child isn’t completing white board work quickly or neatly enough, it may not be their fault.

If you have a child who is left-handed, chances are they haven’t been taught to write. Most are simply allowed to use their left hand. As the right-handed parent of a left-handed child I admit to having that same attitude. I now know that I was completely wrong.

Left-handers push the pen across the page, whereas their righthanded friends will pull. This can lead to smudging and untidy work which in turn leads to anxiety on the part of the child. At an early stage a left-handed child should be encouraged to master the correct handwriting position and paper placement to avoid problems as the writing assignments increase. The paper should be rotated to 45 degrees with the hand and wrist below the writing. Any pen needs to be held in a strong 3 point grip. In Early Years this can be supported with a triangular bodied pencil or a moulded grip around a regular pencil. If your child can get into good habits from the start of their school life, they will avoid problems when they graduate to a fountain pen and longer writing assignments.

Hook grip

Some left-handers use a hooked grip to avoid the problem of smudging, and angle the pen in the same way a right-hander would. This causes more problems than it solves. The hook grip becomes more uncomfortable the more you write. It leads to an overtight grip and aching hands which in turn lead to messy handwriting. The wrist should always be below the writing line. If your child is developing a hook grip, consider introducing a sloped surface to resolve the problem.

Elbow collision

At some point your child will have to share a desk and if they’re lefthanded this can be a problem. “I always end up banging elbows” explains my 9-year old daughter. “That makes my writing messy.”

I remember being hugely concerned when I discovered that my daughter had completed a Reception assignment using mirror writing. She had begun her words on the right-hand side of the page and written from right to left. It’s common in left-handed children and when you think about it, it makes sense. If they are sat next to a righthander, they are simply mirroring their work. Encourage them to start on the left-hand side of the page by placing a coloured star in the margin as a reminder.

Computers

Most ICT rooms are set up with the computer mice on the right-hand side of the keyboard. This gives left-handed children an automatic disadvantage because they either need to move the mouse or attempt or use their right-hand. Don’t presume the teacher knows your child is left-handed. Be sure to let all the staff involved with your child know they’re a left-hander and will need a different workstation set up.

The ‘right’ equipment

Many left-handed children learn the basics with the wrong equipment. Give a left-handed child some righthanded scissors and they’ll find the blade is upside down and so they can’t see the line they are cutting. It means the child has less control and may think of themselves as messy. This can be a real problem in the Early Years. Check your school has left-handed scissors to offer your child. Ambidextrous scissors don’t exist – trust me!

As they progress to writing, shiny barrelled pens are to be avoided. Make sure whatever pen you choose has a good grip so it’s easy to hold even when hands get hot and tired. Pencil grips, left-handed fountain pens and pens such as the Stabilo range of left-handed pens make life a lot easier.

Lack of understanding

As a right-hander, I never appreciated the challenges faced by my daughter. Until she mastered left-handed writing, she was labelled untidy in her You child should always be placed at the left-hand written work and lost enthusiasm for putting pen to paper. It wasn’t until I side of a began researching shared You can make a difference this piece that I desk or Keith Milsom campaigns for better support of left-handed children in our schools and offers some realise how much next to another left-hander. advice about what to expect from your child’s school. “There is still virtually no guidance provided of her attitude is This gives them plenty of linked to the hand to teachers on helping left-handed children and no process for identifying left-handers in schools.” space to get their paper she writes with. positioned correctly and avoid Make sure your child’s teacher knows that he/she is left-handed and may need assistance and The bad news is knocking elbows with a rightadvice. Ask your child’s teacher to talk you through the she’s had a more Useful resources handed neighbour. support they’re going to give, so you can be sure they really challenging time www.anythingleft-handed.co.uk understand. If you’re concerned, refer them to the teacher than her rightWhite boards has some great left-handed handed pals. The They’re a teacher’s best friend guidance sheets for parents and guidance sheets available from www.anythingleft-handed.co.uk. good news is she’s but a left-handers worst The school should have left-handed scissors available and pens teachers. It’s also a super source in good company. nightmare. White boards and that will help left-handers write in the correct style. of left-handed equipment. Barack Obama, chalk boards are a great If children are left to their own devices it is very unlikely they www.lefthandedchildren.org Leonardo Da Vinci learning tool in the modern will find writing and cutting out easy. Apart from the practical another great website with some and Bill Gates are classroom – pupils can get rid top tips for parents looking to difficulties this can mean they are working more slowly than all lefties. Now of mistakes easily without support their left-handed child. the rest of the class and lose some of confidence – especially if that’s not a bad using endless pieces of paper. the teacher tells them off for “not doing it right”. club to be in. However, if you’re left-handed 8

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November-December 2012

education © Copyright Flikr-Luiz Fernando& Sonia Maria

Now schools can test for ‘Intellectual Cinderellas’ Children deemed to be spatial learners – those that think first in images and only afterwards in words, such as the likes of Einstein – can often be sidelined in school and pushed towards more manual subjects and professions. But these children often excel in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) and design subjects, if they are spotted early and given the right support.

At school Einstein, for example, was regarded as a dreamer. Even the famous inventor James Watt, who went on to create the steam engine, received a school report in which he was described as “dull and inept”.

In September, GL Assessment published a new edition of the Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT), the UK’s most popular test of reasoning abilities for children aged seven – 16 years. Pauline Smith, senior psychometric consultant and developer of the CAT4 tests at GL Assessment, said: “We need to identify and nurture our scientists, technicians, designers and engineers just as much as our writers, managers, historians and teachers. The education system cannot afford to ignore these intellectual Cinderellas any longer.” www.gl-assessment.co.uk/

First Class Learning Helping Children Succeed in Maths and English

MATHS and ENGLISH

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Free Assessment Now Available. Call: Mitcham South Norwood Thornton Heath Wallington

020 8646 6791 020 8402 2150 01483 728007 020 8395 6813

First Class Learning is helping 1000s of children to realise their full potential throughout the UK.

www.firstclasslearning.co.uk www.ﬁrstclasslearning.co.uk

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Priory Prep opens new outdoor play area

Thamesbecause small schools build big futures

Priory Preparatory School in Banstead has officially opened its new Early Years outdoor play area. The former Chair of Governors, Serena Broad, returned to the school in Bolters Lane to cut the ribbon on 7 September. The new play area adds an extra dimension to learning for the younger pupils at the school and follows a number of recent additions including a ball court, an astro-turf pitch, a climbing frame, new classroom facilities for the Pre-Prep and an impressive new frontage that allows for more parking. www.prioryprep.co.uk 01737 366920

Is your school ready for e-safety?

E-safety is constantly changing but by empowering both students and teachers with enough know-how to identify online risks, we can make sure children, even at an early age, can protect themselves from abuse, cyberbullying and other internet threats throughout their school life and into adulthood. 9

For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, Wye Street, London SW11 2HB

Maths & English

Enrol them in LEARNA

Teaching for 4-16 years olds

FREE

We also prepare pupils for

• 11 plus entrance exams • Key Stage 2 SATS examinations Assessment • Key Stage 3 and GCSE Maths • A' Levels - Maths, Chemistry and Physics

Call 0845 094 0061 or visit www.Learna.co.uk 5-6 The Broadway, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 4BU.

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OPEN MORNING THURSDAY 8th NOVEMBER 11.00-1.00

Bring out the best in your children!

This autumn Ofsted has issued new guidelines in regards to e-safety provisions in schools. From now on Ofsted will be concerned about how each school protects and educates its staff and students in their use of technology, plus ensuring there is support in place should any issues arise. Although many schools might already have policies in place, others will need to revise their priorities immediately.

our exceptional independent school for boys and girls

020 8669 5187

Individualized. Interactive. Inspiring. SATS

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because every child is unique

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November-December 2012

clubs, classes and activities The stars keep shining at Stagecoach Sutton Stagecoach Sutton have had many successes over the last year but they want to congratulate their most recent. Annabel and Nathanial Smith have just performed for 6 months as â€˜Munchkinsâ€™ in â€˜The Wizard of Ozâ€™ at the London Palladium. Eseosa AigbeAnderson has just been accepted into the â€˜Lion Kingâ€™ Cub school and Orla Gildea is playing first standby â€˜Young Shrekâ€™ and â€˜Dwarfâ€™ in â€˜Shrek the Musicalâ€™. Whether the students attend for confidence and fun or to pursue a career in the performing Arts, Principal Jennifer Jones has all their best interests at heart.

Clockwise from top: Nathaniel and Annabel; Eseosa Aigbe-Anderson and Orla Gildea

The skills the students learn donâ€™t end when the curtain falls they are skills for life.

www.stagecoach.co.uk/sutton.

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www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Pull the Other... opens Theatre group in Epsom Pull the Other (PtO) is a new innovative young peopleâ€™s theatre company offering something a bit different. Launched in Epsom, June 2012, it is the creation of Surrey born West End actress Rachel Nussbaum and Antrim born director Helen Broughton. Introducing the worldâ€™s major plays in a fun, inventive and professional environment PtO believe in investing in promoting young peopleâ€™s exposure to important literary and practical theatre styles whilst honing each individualâ€™s talent, and promoting team work with self confidence, creative expression and imagination. Acting, directing, stagecraft and the stories are at the core of PtOâ€™s â€˜Workshop & Stageâ€™ courses. After successfully launching their Summer TheatreLab Macbeth theyâ€™re returning for more with Christmas TheatreLab A Christmas Carol at Epsom College 2012 and Easter TheatreLab Hamlet at Epsom Playhouse in 2013. pulltheother.moonfruit.com

Help the Marsden with Southern Tutors team Southern Tutors is fielding a team to walk The Marsden March 2013. Jane Race, Managing Director of Southern Tutors, will be leading a team walking The Marsden March 2013 on Sunday 17 March. â€œIâ€™m very passionate about this charity after having first hand experience of the effects of Cancer and the superb treatment from The Royal Marsden Hospital. Iâ€™m very proud to be supporting this event. Please help us raise us as much money as possible.â€? said Jane. To donate online please go to www.justgiving.com/southerntutors

Stagecoach students to work with Kim Gavin Eighteen pupils from Stagecoach Worcester Park & Cheam will have the opportunity to appear on stage in Londonâ€™s West End, working with ArtisticÂ Director, Kim Gavin, fresh from his success producing and choreographing the closing ceremonies for the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.Â The school was selected as one of 16 Stagecoach schools around the country to perform a piece of musical theatre in a Gala evening at Her Majestyâ€™s Theatre, London, on Sunday 4 Nov. The spring term at Stagecoach starts on 4 & 5 January, so if you have a child aged between 4 and 16 years old who dreams of being on the stage, contact Lucy Moorby on 0208 224 2442 or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/worcesterpark or www.stagecoach.co.uk/cheam for more details. See www.Families-LSB.co.uk/Articles/ for full story.

pa W The springboard to rti e d es o conďŹ dence for your child to o!

Tumble Tots is Britainâ€™s leading National Active Physical Play Programme for children from 6 months to 7 years

Croydon areas: call Ant on 07743 103208 Ewell, Cheam, Morden, Woodmansterne: call Debbie on 07710 424460 www.tumbletots.com

For classes in Addiscombe, Mitcham, Croydon & Purley, call Melissa on 07939 420638 For classes in Banstead, Epsom, Hooley & Wallington, call Jo on 07873 634292

ARE YOUR CHILDREN SAFE IN THE WATER? Childrenâ€™s swimming lessons available in Ashtead, Sutton, Purley, Croydon, Epsom, Chessington and Worcester Park. Weekend and weekday lessons. Small classes, instructors in the water with beginners. All ages and abilities. For further information/bookings etc phone:

www.diddidance.com

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November-December 2012

richmond@mnature.co.uk www.mnature.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk

www.GBAcademies.com

Fun Science Parties!

www.everyoneactive.com

Stress-Free Parties Fun Science Shows Crazy Experiments CRB Checked Entertainers Relax and Enjoy Age Range 6 - 12 Other Events - Please Contact Us For Details Rockets, Hovercraft, Slime, CandyďŹ‚oss, Pink Potions, Dry Ice, Electrical and other themed events.

Call *020-8123-8697 or email *info@e-entertainers.co.uk or visit *www.e-entertainers.co.uk 11

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November-December 2012

christmas gift ideas Les & Lou

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

Mayfield Lavender A local Surrey attraction will reopen for Christmas.

Local Surrey mum of two Lesley Hill hopes that her new product will help take the headache out of travelling and eating out with young children. The Roll-Up Chalk Mat is a blackboard on one side, a wipe-clean placemat on the other and it rolls up to tuck into your bag neatly, ready to take everywhere with you. This clever new product for the UK is the design of Lesley and her friend Louise who have teamed up to form Les & Lou. Lesley is no stranger to business, having been a partner at a Big 4 firm in London before becoming a fulltime Mum, but she admits that it’s completely different taking an idea from scratch and getting it off the ground. “It’s so exciting though, and the reward will be seeing other parents and their children getting enjoyment out of our product” explained Lesley. There’s a special introductory offer of a chalk mat, plus chalk and free delivery for just £9.99 – perfect for Christmas. See www.lesandlou.co.uk

Every fingerprint is unique. From your fingerprint create a stunning piece of art. You choose the colours and style of your print which may be produced on canvas or Perspex. Ideal presents for all occasions.

www.fingerprintart.me.uk 07790 447820 or fingerprintjac@yahoo.co.uk

NEW FOR CHRISTMAS 2012!

The amazing Roll-Up Chalk Mat

Unlimited fun, unlimited creativity! The perfect Christmas present for a busy boy or girl from 3-7 years old, the Roll-Up Chalk Mat is a blackboard on one side, a wipe-clean placemat on the other and it rolls up so you can take it everywhere! Great for restaurants, trains, holidays and home! Available in pink or blue. Special offer of £9.99 includes free chalk & delivery!

Buy yours now on www.lesandlou.co.uk 12

products from oils and home fragrancing kits to body lotions, soaps and gift sets. Gift wrapping will be free of charge. There will also be a variety of hampers on sale, and one of Mayfield Lavender’s favourite Christmas items – its lavender wreaths – will be back by popular demand. These can be pre-ordered for collection. Mayfield Lavender can be found on Croydon Lane, Banstead, SM7 3BE. Parking is free.

Mayfield Lavender, described by its customers as ‘the most beautiful place in Banstead’, will open its gift shop during the lead up to the Big Day. Although the lavender field will not be in bloom, people will be able to visit the tea/gift shop from 1 to 24 December.

Any queries relating to this can be emailed to info@mayfieldlavender.com

It will be open between 10am and 4pm, stocking an array of popular lavender

Visit www.mayfieldlavender.com

Say It Personally Stuck for gift ideas this Christmas? The team at online gift company Say It Personally have developed a range of unique gifts with something for everyone, which can be delivered with your personal message directly to the recipient. We all know it’s tricky to find something that bit different for men so Say It Personally have come up with a great selection of gifts for men. He loves his garden? Then it must be Gardening Delight crammed full of gardening goodies he’s sure to love. Or how about “Watch the Birdie” – great for those who aren’t quite as active nowadays but love to watch the garden birds. It’s not only men who are sometimes hard to buy for, so Say It Personally have created their own range of sock bouquets, new for Christmas 2012. A really innovative idea, these stunning bouquets really do have the WOW factor and come in various designs to appeal to teenage girls or women. Buying a gift with a difference for older relatives and friends can be tricky, especially if they are living in a care home. With this in mind the team have created a range of gifts full of useful luxury items. The kids might have already written their Christmas lists to Santa, but are you stuck for something different to fill their stockings? Younger ones will love the Happy School Days mini-backpacks, crammed with co-ordinating goodies and for pre-teens check out what’s in their Wheelie Bin (desk tidy) – “lookalike” stationery resembling all manner of things from an iPhone eraser to a calculator all wrapped up to look and smell like a chocolate bar. www.sayitpersonally.co.uk - 01482 638 355

Finger Art Fingerprint Art is a new business set up by Jacque Bunton, a mum of two and graphic designer. Jacque produces unique pieces of artwork created from your finger and handprints. Each piece is individually designed and you can personalise the style and the colour and choose the presentation – in wall mounted perspex, canvas or stand alone glass blocks. The prints are ideal gifts for all occasions. For more information on the products please visit www.fingerprintart.me.uk or call 07790 447820.

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November-December 2012

christmas gift ideas

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

Make your own gifts

 Make your own jam or chutney (do invest in nice looking labels).  Make your own raw chocolate from scratch, no cooking involved, just mixing ingredients. Once you’ve discovered this you’ll never eat ordinary chocolate ever again. See our recipe on Familiesonline/rawchocolate

I know, you are too busy, and have no time … but take a minute to consider whether you might benefit from taking the time to do it. Home made presents are always much appreciated. You’ll find recipes/how-to on the net.

 Paint your own pottery (mug, plate, dish, teapot etc) at a local pottery café such as Glazed All Over (see below)  Make your own Christmas cards. Use family pictures to make it extra-easy.  Dig out that candle-making kit your children never used. It is really easy and results do look good.  Knitters will have fun making rattles, jumpers, scarves, dolls etc. There are some great books to show you how.

 Frame a beautiful child’s drawing/painting for a relative.  Make your own Christmas decorations for fun.  Turn your family photos into a collage, calendar, place mat etc. Many options available online or Snappy Snaps.

 Try a craft kit: they allow you to learn the techniques of a craft by creating a finished item from the supplied components. Many kits available are for mums too, including mosaic, soap making, jewellery, knitting, paint your own cup, mobiles for baby, bath bomb and much more. Free delivery for all orders over £30 with www.makeitnow.co.uk. There is also a wide choice of kits available at direct.hobbycraft.co.uk.

Heritage Farm 38 Telegraph Track, Little Woodcote Estate, Wallington SM6 0SH 020 8669 7845 www.heritagefarmnurseries.co.uk

“

Invest in beautiful packaging, it will make all the difference!

“

Heritage have some great new gift ideas for Christmas with prices starting from as little as £1.99. Gifts range from retro sweets for the kids to lovely biscuit tins for your Grandma. Check out the new range in the Tropical Garden Cafe. While you are there, don’t miss trying out their new winter menu which, along with old favourites, includes new winter warmers and yummy puddings. Treat yourself to their Winter Chocolate Treat (see the winter menu for details) while relaxing in front of their real wood fire.

Glazed All Over 102 Stafford Road, Wallington SM6 9AY 020 8647 6463 www.glazedallover.co.uk

Handmade personalised gifts are always a hit. Glazed All Over give you the opportunity to create a unique Christmas present for friends and family. If you do not have the time to visit the studio, they offer Pottery-to-go kits. You will need to come in to collect your basket full of all the things you’ll need to create your masterpiece at home. There is a £10.00 deposit for the kit, a studio fee of £3.00, plus the cost of the ceramic piece you wish to paint. When you have finished, bring your kit back in along with your painted pieces and they aim to get them glazed, fired & back to you within 10 days. See their website for more details and their advert below to see the special discount they are offering ‘Families’ readers.

hello@sayitpersonally.co.uk

www.sayitpersonally.co.uk

www.glazedallover.co.uk

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pantomimes

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

LOCAL theatre PRODUCTIONS Charles Cryer Studio Theatre 39 High Street, Carshalton, SM5 3BB 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk

Snow White at Epsom Playhouse

23 Nov – 16 Feb 2013 various times

Sat 8 - Mon 24 Dec various times

The Wind in the Willows

All I Want For Christmas

A play with songs by Toby Hulse based on the novel by Kenneth Grahame. Suitable for ages 5 – 11 years. £11.00 £16.00

This is the story of Daisy the doll, Belle the ballerina and lovely cuddly bear as they come to life to help Father Christmas deliver some presents for a very special guest. It’s Christmas Eve and all through the house, nothing is stirring except… the toys on their magical quest. This special interactive show is especially for our younger audiences to experience first-hand the wonder of live theatre. Suitable for 0-5 year olds. From £5.00

Secombe Theatre 42 Cheam Road, Sutton, SM1 2SS 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk Fri 23 Nov 7.30pm

Cinderabba

Sat 8 - Mon 24 Dec various times

The Elves and the Shoemaker The delightful story of The Elves and the Shoemaker is brought to life in an adventure to find true happiness and friendship in this sparkly Christmas story. Suitable for 5-8 year olds. From £8.00 Churchill Theatre 108 High Street,Bromley BR1 1HA 08448 717 620 (booking fee) www.atgtickets.com/bromley (booking fee) Fri 30 Nov - Sun 6 Jan 2013 various times

Peter Pan Take a festive flight into Neverland with Peter Pan, Wendy, The Lost Boys and Tinker Bell. But watch out for the infamous Captain Hook and the pirates behind you. With spectacular sets and costumes, pirate ships, crocodiles, and Captain Hook and Smee to hiss and boo at, Peter Pan is fantastic seasonal fun for everyone aged 3 to 103. £15.00 £26.00 The Colour House Children’s Theatre Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way, London SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Sat 24 Nov – Sun 27 Jan 2013 Sat & Sun 2.00pm and 4.00pm.

Jack and the Beanstalk Poor Jack’s Mum has to sell

Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.co.uk

their only cow. Jack gets five beans for it and he’s in BIG trouble. Mum throws the worthless beans on the compost heap, she doesn’t know they’re magic beans. They grow into a huge beanstalk and our adventurous Jack wants to climb to the top of it. Adult: £10.00, Child: £9.00 Epsom Playhouse Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey KT18 5AL 01372 742 555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk Thu 6 - Mon 24 Dec 10.30 am, 1.30 & 4.00pm

The Night before Christmas On the night before Christmas, Emily stares out of the window, hugs her teddy and waits excitedly for the morning, while in the corner a little mouse called Eddie can’t understand why only humans are allowed to get presents. So he sets off in search of Father Christmas to find out for himself. Great for families with children aged 2 - 7. Every child gets a present. Seating is unallocated and on a first come first served basis. From £10.00 14 Dec – 6 Jan 2013 various times

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Tickets can be purchased online or by ringing the box office. From £10.50 for morning, afternoon and evening performances Fairfield Halls Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 1DG 020 8688 9291 www.fairfield.co.uk Wed 28 & Thu 29 Nov 7.45pm; Thu mat. 2.30pm

A Christmas Carol Ballet Theatre UK’s production of the well-known story by Charles Dickens. Tickets can be purchased online or by ringing the box office. From £14.00 (+£2.25 bkg fee) Sun 2 Dec - Mon 24 Dec various times

The Night before Christmas

understand why only humans are allowed to get presents at Christmas so he sets off in search of Father Christmas to find out for himself. Great for families with children aged 2 - 7. With a meet and greet with Santa. Tickets can be purchased online or by ringing the box office.£10.00 Fri 7 Dec – Sun 6 Jan 2013 various times

Jack and the Beanstalk Tickets can be purchased online or by ringing the box office. From £16.50 Sat 11 Dec 11.00am

Arthur Davison Family Concert A Christmas Concert featuring Dickens’ – A Christmas Carol from £7.50 (+£2.25 booking fee) Harlequin Theatre Warwick Quadrant, Redhill, Surrey, RH1 1NN 01737 276 500 www.harlequintheatre.co.uk Fri 14 Dec – Sun 6 Jan 2013 various times

Cinderella The classic rags to riches fairy tale will be brought bang up to date with a couple of dastardly divas dishing out moody meanness as Ugly Sisters but with a Fairy Godmother on stand by and everyone’s best friend Buttons on hand, perhaps Cinders will find true love and happiness in the arms of a handsome, charming Prince. Booking online available. Adult: £18.50; Concs: £16.50; Previews: £11.00; Savers: £13.50

Action Replay Drama Group will be recreating a well known pantomime in their own unique way. Come and join them for some festive fun and excitement. Thu 13 – Sat 15 Dec evening 7.00pm, Sat mat. 2.00pm

Aladdin Act One Theatre group are back with another family Christmas pantomime packed with hilarious laughs, wonderful characters, chart topping songs and a spectacular magic carpet ride. £9.00/£11.00 Tue 18 – Mon 24 Dec various times

The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz Join Dorothy and her friends, Scarecrow, Tin Man and, of course, Cowardly Lion as they battle with good and evil, and a particularly nasty witch in order to find a brain, a heart, courage and a home. With Munchkins, monkeys and magic, this wonderful story is the perfect festive treat for audiences of all ages. This production is not based on musical, stage or film versions of the story. From £11.00 Fri 28 & Sat Dec 8.00pm

Rat Pack at Christmas Festive fun all the way as the “Purveyors of Cool” come to town with a sensational show featuring some of the greatest music of the 20th century £20.00

New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1QG 0844 871 7646 (booking fee) www.newwimbledontheatre.co.uk Fri 7 Dec - Sun 13 Jan 2013, various times

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs £10.00 - £29.50 (premium seats available)

A little mouse called Eddie can’t 14

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November-December 2012

pantomimes

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

PRODUCTIONS FURTHER AFIELD Guildford Spectrum Parkway, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 1UP 01483 443333 www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk

Wintershall (see entry on right)

world of Hansel and Gretel in an intimate and captivating new production which promises to be an enchanting Christmas treat for the whole family. Based on the story recorded by the Brothers Grimm, a classic fairytale re-imagined for 7–10 year-olds. £12.00 for under-18yrs; no booking fee.

7 – 9 Dec (check website for times)

Peter Pan on Ice Fall under the spell of Neverland and enjoy the magic coming to life with some of your favourite storybook characters including the mischievous Tinkerbell and outrageous Captain Hook. Tickets available by ringing or online.Adult: £11.00; child/ concession: £7.50; family (2+2): £32.00. Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7 ES 0844 412 4661 www.nimaxtheatres.com/lyric-theatre Wed 21 Nov – Sun 13 Jan 2013 various times

Room on the Broom Adapted for the stage from the bestselling book by Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson MBE and Axel Scheffler. A spellbinding adventure from the creators of The Gruffalo. The witch and her cat are flying happily along on their broomstick when a stormy wind blows the witch’s hat, bow and wand away into the night. With the help of a daft

Wintershall Bramley GU5 0LR 01483 892167 www.wintershall-estate.com Wed 19 - Sun 23 Dec various times

The Wintershall Nativity Play The perfect way for families young and old to experience the true spirit of Christmas. The action takes place in and around Holly Barn.

dog, a beautiful bird and a friendly frog, her belongings are retrieved. But this broomstick’s not meant for five and – CRACK! – it snaps in two. When a hungry dragon appears, who will save the poor witch? And will there ever be room on the broom for everyone? A magical, musical delight for children aged 3+ Get a sneak preview at www.roomonthebroomlive.com. See the competition on p.23 of this magazine for a chance to win a family ticket.

National Theatre South Bank, London SE1 9PX (Nearest tube stations: Waterloo, Embankment, Southwark). 020 7452 3000 nationaltheatre.org.uk

It may seem a long way out, but going beyond Guildford will give you the chance to see the Nativity story acted out in the open at night or in the daytime, with a cast of 70, plus a real baby, horses, donkeys, sheep, angels, beacons and bonfire.

7 Dec - 26 Jan 2013 various times (check website for details)

Book by phone or online. Adults £15; Children £7.50

Hansel and Gretel Two children lost in the woods... a trail of breadcrumbs... and a bewitching house made of sweets. Explore the

For a regularly updated list of local family events visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on

THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS TREAT! FROM THE CREATORS OF THE GRUFFALO

Live

On Stage

A high energy treat

★★★★ The Sunday Times

Based on the best-selling book by

Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler

LYRIC

WED 21 NOV – SUN 13 JAN THEATRE BOX OFFICE: 0844 412 4661 SHAFTESBURY AVENUE

PICCADILLY CIRCUS

watch a sneak preview online at www.roomonthebroomlive.co.uk

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

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28 & 29 DECEMBER

Box Office 020 8770 6990

online @ www.suttontheatres.co.uk Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies www.Families-LSB.co.uk

November-December 2012

christmas lights

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

Where to see the Christmas lights switch-ons Centrale shopping centre, Croydon

a magnificent Christmas hamper containing items worth over £500 donated by Ashley Centre retailers. Stars from this year’s Epsom Playhouse pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will perform within the centre before the light switch on. After the show, along with Father Christmas, they will be available to meet and greet, along with Father Christmas and sign autographs.

www.centrale.co.uk Thu 15 Nov, 4.00pm

4D Christmas Cinema premiere and Christmas Light Switch on Visit the Lower Mall for a chance to be at the premiere of the 4D Christmas Cinema. There will be free entry and a goody bag for the first 75 people, based on a first come first served basis. Santa will also be there and children can have their photo taken with him for free plus receive a free gift. The Centrale Christmas lights will be switched on at 5.30pm, followed by the first showing of ‘Rocket the Reindeer’ at 6.30pm. For details of show times and for online booking visit www. wish4ticket.com or call the ticket hotline on 0871 330 8070

Croydon Town Centre www.croydontowncentre.com Thu 15 Nov 2012, 2.00 – 6.00

BIG Christmas Switch-On

Kingston Thu 15 Nov, 3.00pm onwards

Christmas Light Switch On

Denbies www.denbiesvineyard.co.uk Tue 27 Nov, from 5.00pm

Christmas Light Switch On & Late Night Shopping A treat for all the family. Firework display, funfair rides, free mulled wine & mince pies with special guests switching on the Christmas lights. Free entry & car parking.

Epsom

Sat 24 Nov, 1.00pm onwards

Christmas Light Switch On The Ashley Centre will be turning on their Christmas lights with a magical afternoon for the whole family.There will be a variety of free entertainment for visitors culminating in the switch on event at 5.00pm, where Father Christmas will have the honour of turning on the shopping centre lights.500 people who are at the event at 5.00pm will be given a special envelope. One of these envelopes will contain a prizewinning golden ticket. The prize is

The Kingston Christmas lights will be switched on by Santa and Cinderella. Characters from the pantomime production at the Rose Theatre, Cinderella, will be on hand as well as live reindeer, choirs, brass bands, other wandering entertainment. You will be able to marvel as a live ice sculptor creates Cinderella’s Glass Slipper. A giant snow globe with a Cinderella backdrop will be on display where people can get their photos taken. The Rose Theatre Culture Café will have mulled wine and fruit mince pies. The lights will be switched on at 6.00pm.

Where to see the Santa in his Grotto BOCKETTS FARM PARK

well as Tolly the Clown with a new side-splitting comedy, all hosted in a centrally-heated Big Top, this is one show you, your family and friends will not want to miss. To help ensure your visit goes smoothly and you have all the details you require, we have created a fantastic, easy to use booking system. Just follow the links on their website to book your tickets.

Young Street, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

29 Nov - 24 Dec

Visit Father Christmas at Bocketts Farm Experience a Magical Christmas at Bocketts Farm as Father Christmas returns. Children will love to hop on board the Santa Express to his magical hay barn workshop where each child will meet Santa and receive a gift. Also from 1 December, hundreds of Christmas Trees and wreaths will be on sale, and the Gift Shop will be selling a great variety of toys, gifts, games, sledges and stocking fillers. What’s more, there will be 25 gorgeous new born lambs due and plenty of indoor play. £5.95 to see Santa in addition to the cost of farm entrance. £9.95 if just visiting Santa.

CENTRALE SHOPPING CENTRE Lower Mall, Croydon 0871 330 8070 www.wish4ticket.com

Thu 15 Nov- Mon 24 Dec., various times

4D Christmas Grotto

The Award winning 4D show Rocket the Reindeer™ and all his friends will be coming to Centrale this year. Be prepared to be transported to the North Pole where you will join all the characters in a magical 4D adventure. The show is suitable for all ages. See details for the 16

CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES

Chessington Garden Centre premiere night above. Tickets can be bought online or by ringing the ticket hotline. Adult: £3.00; £3.50 per Child and £12.00 per Family Ticket (4 people must include 1 adult)

CHESSINGTON GARDEN CENTRE Leatherhead Road, Chessington, KT9 2NG 01372 725 638 www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk

17 Nov – 24 Dec

Santa’s Wonderland Grotto

Santa arrives at Chessington Garden Centre on Saturday 17 November at 11.00am to welcome you to his ‘Wonderland Grotto’. Your visit will start with a short festive animated film, followed by a magical trip to meet Santa. Along the way you will journey through a wonderland of stunning fairy-tale inspired scenes, starting with an Alice inspired trip down a rabbit hole to the Mad Hatter’s tea party and the Queen of Hearts’ court.

It’s then on to meet the impulsive Mr Toad and other residents of Toad Hall, including Ratty, Mole, Badger and the mischievous weasels. Following a rare chance to get to see inside the Elves’ mystical workshop, you will then travel through an Icy Winter Wonderland with ice skating penguins and a polar bear’s tea party, before finishing with your personal meeting with Santa in his enchanted ice palace. Just follow the links on their website to book your tickets to this year’s magical experience and find out further details of what is sure to be one of the hottest tickets in town this Christmas. 1 Dec - 6 Jan 2013

Cirque Normandie

Now is the time to plan for your visit to Cirque Normandie’s spectacular show in residence at Chessington Garden Centre.With a fantastic, all new, bigger than ever show, including an international cast of acrobats, aerialists, jugglers as

Leatherhead Road, Chessington KT9 2NE 0871 663 4477 www.chessington.com 8,9, 15,16, 22 -24 Dec., 10.00 – 3.00pm

Festive Zoo Days

An altogether different winter awaits adventurers this year with the Festive Zoo Days. Families can take a wander around the Zoo and Sea Life centre and get close and personal with over 1000 animals. And it wouldn’t be Christmas without their resident reindeer, Father Christmas and his elves. Adults: from £9.10; children: from £7.00; family of four: from £32.00. Best prices are available online. Children under 0.9m tall go free.

EPSOM PLAYHOUSE Ashley Avenue, Epsom, KT18 5AL 01372 742555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk

The Night Before Christmas

see ‘Pantomimes & Christmas shows’ on page 14 for details.

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November-December 2012

FREE ENTRY AND GOODY BAG FOR THE FIRST 75 PEOPLE* Bring your little ones along to the Lower Mall at 4pm for the chance to be at the premiere of our 4D Christmas Cinema. Meet Santa, have your picture taken for free and receive a free gift, then get into the festive spirit as we switch on our Christmas lights at 5.30pm!

TICKETS BETWEEN 6.30PM – 8.00PM At 6.30pm we open our doors to paying guests. For show times and pre-booking visit www.wish4ticket.com or call the ticket hotline on 0871 330 8070 Prices: £3.50 per child, £3 per adult or £12 group ticket†

centrale.co.uk *Free entry into the 4D cinema is on a first come, first serve basis † A group ticket is for a maximum of 4 people, minimum 1 adult. For full terms & conditions visit www.centrale.co.uk

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any excuse

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November-December 2012

santa’s grottos

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

FAIRFIELD HALLS

to help decorate the twelve Christmas trees and make sure you don’t miss the live animals brought down by Deen City Farm. Visit the Shop and Cafe for festive treats and gifts. Grotto visits: £7.00 per child.

Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 1DG 020 8688 9291 www.fairfield.co.uk

The Night Before Christmas

see ‘Pantomimes & Christmas shows’ on page 14 for details.

THE OAK TREE FARM & NURSERY

GATTON PARK

23 Croydon lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3BE 020 8722 8737

Reigate, Surrey, RH2 0TW 01737 649066 www.gattonpark.com/afcaf.html Sun 2 & Sat 8 Dec 1.00 - 3.00pm

www.theoaktreefarm.co.uk

Sun 9 Dec

Christmas Tree Festival

Santa’s Grotto

Enjoy a golf buggy ride to Santa in his grotto, explore the grounds following a trail of clues and then return to Gatton Hall to make a Christmas decoration. Cost £5.00 per child. Tea and cake available to purchase.

GODSTONE FARM Tilburstow Hill Road, Godstone RH9 8LX 01883 742546

www.godstonefarm.co.uk

Sat 15 Dec – Wed 2 Jan 2013

Enchanted Christmas

Step into the magical glittery world of the North Pole with the farm transformed into an enchanted woodland to celebrate Christmas. With sparkling snow, penguins and friendly polar bears there is plenty to set your children’s imagination running wild and bring the glistening world of Santa’s toy shop to life. Children can write a Christmas wish list to Santa to post in the farm’s own Post Office and receive a reply in their post after the visit. There will also be Christmas craft activities and a Reindeer Quiz with the chance to win a prize. Entrance: 50p.

HERITAGE FARM

HORSESHOE COMMUNITY PRESCHOOL Banstead Youth Centre, The Horseshoe, Bolters Lane, Banstead SM7 2BQ Sat 10 Nov., 10.00 – 1.00pm

Christmas Bazaar

Get your Christmas presents early. Enjoy homemade cakes and refreshments while you shop and the children have fun on a range of activities including expert face painting, a bouncy castle and craft activities. Stalls will be selling new products as well as locally handcrafted gifts. There will also be the return of the very popular teddy tombola and the Glamour Girlz makeover stall. Free Entry. Anyone interested in a having a stall should call 07814 791 528 or email thehorseshoepreschool@yahoo. co.uk.

38, Telegraph Track, Little Woodcote Estate, Wallington SM6 0SH 020 8669 7845

KIDSPACE CROYDON

Over the Christmas period, look out for a makeover on Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends train station as well as around the Cafe. Check their website for more details of Christmas activities.

Thu 20 Dec., 5.00 - 7.30pm

www.heritagefarmnurseries.co.uk

HONEYWOOD MUSEUM Honeywood Walk, Carshalton SM5 3NX 020 8770 4297 www.friendsofhoneywood.co.uk

Sat 1 Dec., 2.00 – 6.00pm

Carshalton Frost Fair

The Friends of Honeywood Museum are teaming up with Ecolocal for a Winter Fair beside the Ponds in Honeywood Walk. Honeywood will be open until 6.00pm, with a Santa’s Grotto, crafts, stalls, a hog roast, activities for all the family. At 6.00pm Carshalton’s Christmas lights will be switched on – the lights will be set up along the High Street and 18

also around the ponds. Please phone or visit the website for further details.

The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon, CR0 4RQ. 020 8686 0040 www.kidspaceadventures.com

Children’s Christmas party at Kidspace Includes Pizza buffet, 30 minutes entertainment, a trip to Santa’s grotto. Adults free. Tickets cost £12.00 in advance (£2 off for annual/quartually pass holders) £14.00 on the door (no discount available).

KNIGHTS GARDEN CENTRES Chelsham, CR6 9DZ 01883 622340 www.knights-gardencentres.co.uk

Sat 17 Nov., 3.00pm approx.

Father Christmas arrival event

Santa will be arriving in style by horse and carriage. Visit him in his Grotto today or every weekend until Christmas. Sat 24 Nov., 10.00am - 4.00pm

Santa’s Reindeer visit

Chessington World of Adventures A team of huskies will also be visiting, who are always a great attraction. Every weekend during December until Christmas

Breakfast with Santa

Bring the children along for Breakfast with Santa at The Pantry Coffee Shop, Chelsham. Book early for this popular event.

KNIGHTS GARDEN CENTRES Woldingham, Surrey, CR3 7LA 01883 653142

www.knights-gardencentres.co.uk

Sat 17 Nov., 12.30pm approx.

Father Christmas arrival event

Santa will be arriving in style by horse and carriage. Visit him in his Grotto today or every weekend until Christmas. Sun 25 Nov., 10.00am - 4.00pm

Santa’s Reindeer visit

A team of huskies will also be visiting, who are always a great attraction. This weekend is the busiest weekend in the Knights calendar. Every weekend during December until Christmas

Breakfast and Afternoon Tea with Santa

Every weekend during December until Christmas. Bring the children along for breakfast with Santa or afternoon tea with Santa at The Dene. Book early for this popular event.

MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhallpark

1,2, 8,9 Dec., 11.00 – 4.00pm (last admission 3.45pm)

Christmas Market

Visit Santa’s Grotto or have a go at making Christmas cards, decorations and wreaths. Browse a wide variety of stalls at the food and craft fair and enjoy the sounds of live music throughout the day with a glass of mulled wine. Visit the Stable Yard

There will be mulled wine and roasted chestnuts available and activities including cookery demonstrations, tree decorating and many more activities for the family to enjoy.

PRIORY FARM Sandy Lane, South Nutfield, Redhill RH1 4EJ 07754 188824 www.prioryfarm.co.uk

Sun 25 Nov; weekends 1/2, 8/9, 15/16, 22/23 Dec

Santa’s Grotto

Come to the Plant Centre and enjoy all the fun by visiting the grotto and riding the magical train. The grotto and train are available at other times for private groups by arrangement. Call 01737 823304 for details.Cost: £5.00 per child including train ride and gift. £1.00 per adult for train ride.

SCOLA Sutton Centre, next to Sutton Library, St Nicholas Way, SM1 1EA www.scola.ac.uk Sat 1 Dec., 11.00 – 3.00pm

SCOLA Christmas Festival

The festival will return with a huge range of stalls for you to find the perfect gift. Craft, handmade and festive goods, jewellery and cakes will be available as well as fine foods and homemade treats. There will be another chance to get your caricature done by the famous Ric Machin – a unique gift for family and friends. Kids’ activities and face painting will also be there and will all contribute to the festive atmosphere. They hope you will come in out of the cold and have a look round – you may find that perfect gift

SUTTON ECOLOGY CENTRE The Old Rectory, Festival Walk, Carshalton SM5 3NY 020 8770 5820 (enquiries) www.sutton.gov.uk/biodiversity

Sat 8 Dec., 10.00 -3.00pm

Christmas Fair

The Friends of Sutton Ecology Centre will be holding their annual Christmas Fair, with brica-brac, cakes and lots of other stalls. Free entry. No booking required.

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November-December 2012

Registered charity:1093411

Bocketts Farm Park 29th Nov - 24th Dec

A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS

WEAR A HAT DAY Thursday 28

Save

up to

£10

on a family visit!

FATHER CHRISTMAS IS HERE! › Hop on board the Santa Express to his magical haybarn workshop to receive a gift.

th March

2013

› Voted top 6 in the UK by ‘The Guardian’

Plus newborn lambs and a gift shop full of stocking fillers!

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

✃

SPECIAL

OFFER

£2 off full price farm entry per person

(max 5 people) valid from 5th - 30th November 2012. Only with this voucher.

www.braintumourresearch.org

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November-December 2012

santa’s grottos

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

SUTTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL

WHITEHALL, CHEAM

Manor Park Road, Sutton SM1 4AS Thu 8 Nov., 6.30 - 9.30pm

1, Malden Road, Cheam, Surrey. SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Sat 17 Nov., 9.30am – 4.00pm

GROTTOS & CHRISTMAS EVENTS FURTHER AFIELD

Tables booked already include Christmas gifts, stocking fillers, toiletries, cards and wrappings, candles, sports memorabilia, handbags, clothes, books, marble & limestone plates/bowls and ornaments, sweets, portrait photographer and more. Refreshments to include burgers, sausages and mince pies. Entry: £2.50 to include a glass of wine (tea, coffee and soft drinks available if preferred). Sat 1 Dec., 12.00 – 3.00pm

Mistletoe Craft And Gift Fair

KENT AND EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY

WOODCOTE GREEN GARDEN CENTRE & NURSERIES

Santa Specials

Christmas Fair

A Magical Christmas at Woodcote Green

Christmas Shopping Night

There will be a mix of stalls and activities including bottle tombola, hoop-la, Scalextrics racing, gifts and hand made goods, raffle, chocolate tombola, static bike racing and much more.

The annual fair organised by the Friends of Whitehall held in the Parochial Rooms, Cheam Village.Free entry.

Woodmansterne Lane, Wallington, Surrey, SM6 0SU 020 8647 6838 www.woodcotegreen.com 17, 18, 24 Nov - 24 Dec., from 11.00am

Tenterden Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden Kent TN30 6H 01580 765155 www.kesr.org.uk Weekends in Dec up to and including Mon 24 Dec A return steam train ride to Northiam Station (approx. 1 hour ten minute duration), a visit from Santa, a present for each child and refreshments on board one of the steam trains are at the heart of the magic they create. See their website for more details. From £14.50 pp.

KEW GARDENS 26 W Park Rd Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DA 020 8332 5000 www.kew.org Sat 8 - Sun 23 Dec., 12.00 -3.30pm (last entry at 3.00pm)

Santa’s grotto

Bring your little ones along to meet Father Christmas in his grotto, located in the Princess of Wales Conservatory. After Christmas day the grotto will reopen to host magical story telling sessions, where families can enjoy traditional folktales featuring shadow puppetry. (26 Dec to 6 Jan 2013, 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm, sessions last 20-30 minutes). Sat 8 Dec - Sun 6 Jan., 10.30 - 4.00pm (excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)

Vintage Carousel Experience the magic of Christmas throughout the store this year. Santa and his reindeer will be landing at Woodcote Green at 11.00am on Sat 17 November. Come and meet Santa’s real reindeer, which are free to view on 17, 18 and then from 28 November until they fly out on Christmas Eve. The Grotto will be open from 11.00am on the 17 and 18 Nov then daily from 24 Nov until Christmas Eve. Go on a journey with their very own polar bear and help him find Narnuqa, his baby sister who is lost on her way to post her letter to Santa. Pre-booking online for the Grotto is essential. Entry prices vary, with discounted tickets available for visits in November and early December. Please visit their website for a full range of prices, opening times and availability. 2 adults go free per booking, additional adults £2.00. Online Booking: www.woodcotegreen.com

www.theatrebugs.co.uk hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk

£20

Per Day

AWAY DAYS

HOLIPLAY

Our FUN DAYS OUT include trips to the following venues: Theme Parks, Theatre, Water Parks, Ice Skating, Bowling, Laser Tag, VIP Cinema, Go-karting, Adventure Playgrounds Museums, Zoo, Farm etc.

Wed 2

to Fri 4

January 2013

Ages 5 - 15 years . Limited Places ADVANCED REGISTRATION ONLY

LOCATION: Oasis Academy High School Shirley Road Shirley Croydon CR9 7AL

www.holiplay.co.uk 07949 297 744 / 07858 899 228

Activity Camps 20

@holiplay

Holiplay and AP Learning

After the kids have visited Father Christmas, take them for a ride on the stunning vintage carousel on Kew Palace lawn Adult or child £2, adult accompanying child under five is £1.00.For very young children, why not take a spin in our mini vintage car ride (runs from 10.30am to 4pm daily, excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Child £2.00).

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND Magical Ice Kingdom

Friday 23 Nov - Sun 6 Jan 2013 (closed Christmas Day) 10.00 - 10pm daily (except 23 Nov – opens from 5.00pm) Tickets are now on sale for The Magical Ice Kingdom, Ice Rink, Giant Observation Wheel & Zippos Circus – Zippos Christmas Circus and Cirque Berserk. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is FREE to enter, there is no admission fee. Online booking available.

LAPLAND UK Bewl Water Estate, Lamberhurst, Kent, TN3 8JH 0871 620 7063 www.laplanduk.co.uk Wed 5 Dec

Christmas Magic For Everyone – A Superstar Day for super children and super adults

Superstar days are days that have been especially tailored and subsidised by LaplandUK to support the special needs community, which they hope will enable more children to experience the magic of Father Christmas. Able bodied siblings are also welcome and as with the standard day trip, children under 16 receive a gift from Father Christmas.Tickets for Superstar Days can be booked online or by telephone.

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November-December 2012

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

holiday classes

Activity camps for the holidays Pull the Other...

Holiplay Activity Camps 07949 297 744 www.holiplay.co.uk Wed 2 – Fri 4 Jan Oasis Academy (High School) Shirley CR9 7AL Wed 2 – Fri 4 Jan Spring Park Primary School CR0 8HQ Holiplay is pleased to announce the launch of Holiplay Away Days. These fun-packed day trips out will give children the opportunity to make new friends, discover new places, embark on adventures, work in teams, develop their confidence and conquer their fears. Respect, Responsibility and Reliability are at the core of everything they do and they insist those values are upheld by the children at all times. Holiplay Away Days will lead trips for children and young people aged 5-15 years. Early registration is essential as spaces are very limited. Phone or visit their website for more information.

Jancett Playsafe Holiday Clubs 020 8669 1725 www.jancettplaysafe.co.uk Various schools in Carshalton, Worcester Park, Wallington and Croydon. Multi activity holiday clubs.Visit their website for full details of venues, dates, times and prices and to be able to register online.

www.woodcotegreen.com

Pull The Other... Christmas Youth Theatrelab:

Dickens Workshop & Stage School ‘A Christmas Carol’

07801 268 387 (Rachel) or 07725 606 833 (Helen) pulltheothertheatre@gmail.com pulltheother.moonfruit.com Mon 17 - Wed 19 Dec, 10.00 – 5.00pm, last day performance 7.30pm Epsom College Act. Direct. Stage Craft. Join Pull the Other... for their festive three-day ‘A Christmas Carol’ that introduces Dickens’ iconic Christmas story in a funfuelled, energised and professional environment. Honing individual talent and promoting teamwork with self-confidence, creative expression and imagination culminating in a work-in-progress performance. 12 - 16 years. Booking now 10% sibling and friend discount.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Epsom Christmas Workshops 020 8642 3500 www.stagecoach.co.uk/epsom Sat 22 - Sun 23 Dec 9.00- 1.00pm (for ages 4-6); 9.30 - 5.00pm (for ages 6-18) Blenheim High School, Longmead Road, Epsom, KT199BH. Two days of exciting, fun and professional dance, drama and singing with a final presentation of ‘Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs’ for ages 6 to 18 and ‘Brave in 2 Days’ for ages 4 - 6. No hidden costs for costumes or tickets etc. 4 to 6 year olds: £75.00; 6 to 18 year olds: £95.00. Siblings get £10.00 off.

www.jancettplaysafe.co.uk

Playsafe Holiday at:

Beano’s, Carshalton Collingwood, Wallington Dazzlers, Worcester Park Satellites, Wallington Stanley’s, Carshalton Buddies, Purley*

Theatrebugs Christmas Workshops

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Clubs

Holiday Club Is Open

01483 882244 / 07971004134 hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk www.theatrebugs.co.uk/epsom.html Sat 15 Dec, 1.30 - 4.30pm Cobham - United Reform Church, 38 Stoke Road, KT11 3BD Sat 15 Dec, 1.30 - 4.30pm Epsom - Methodist Church, Ashley Road, KT18 5AQ Theatrebugs’ Festive Funday is coming to a town near you this December. A jolly Christmas party based on the magical story of “Where is Santa?” with merry music, dancing, arts, crafts and festive games. Have a delicious Christmas Tea Party with the Magical Christmas Fairy, Mrs Claus or the real Father Christmas himself plus receive an early Christmas gift. Come in your favourite festive costume – the Bugs will dress up too. Mums and dads can shop while the children enjoy the festive fun. Suitable for boys and girls aged 3½ – 8 years old. £30.00 with 15% group booking discount; 10% early booking discount quote ‘snail10’ (limited period only) Terms and conditions’s apply. Early booking is recommended as courses get booked up in advance. Book by phone, email or online.

For ages 4 - 11 years

7.30am - 6.30pm Monday to Friday *Open until 6.15pm

For our club dates please visit: www.jancettplaysafe.co.uk Head office: 020 8669 1725 Email: admin@jancett.co.uk Jancett House, 16 Stanley Park Road, Wallington, Surrey SM6 0EU Or visit our website: www.jancett.co.uk www.jancettplaysafe.co.uk

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November-December 2012

dates for families

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

Diary dates for Families

Contact details for venues

Take the to opportunity to visit Whitehall at night. Admire the Victorian Christmas decorations and purchase stocking fillers in their shop. Free

The Beanstalk Project Carshalton Community Allotment, Westmead Allotment Site SM5 2PW 020 8770 6611 beanstalk@ecolocal.org.uk www.ecolocal.org.uk/beanstalk

Fri 14 Dec - Sun 6 Jan

Gatton Park Reigate RH2 0TW 01737 649066 www.gattonpark.com

To 11 Nov

Morden Hall Park

Wed – Fri & Sun 2.00 -5.00pm; Sat 10.00 – 5.00pm Whitehall - Nonsuch Palace: An exhibition of Architectural Drawings of Nonsuch Palace Another opportunity to see the beautiful architectural drawings made in the 1940s by local architect Sydney Turner FRIBA, showing different perspectives of Nonsuch Palace. A model of Nonsuch Palace and a display of fragments of the palace’s architecture from the 1959 archaelogical dig are on permanent exhibition in Whitehall all year round. Free entry.

Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ mordenhallpark

Sutton Ecology Centre The Old Rectory, Festival Walk, Carshalton SM5 3NY 020 8770 5822 (bookings); 020 8770 5820 (enquiries) sec@sutton.gov.uk www.sutton.gov.uk

Whitehall 1 Malden Road, Cheam, SM3 8QD www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk

Sat 1 Dec

For a regularly updated list of local family events visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on

Sat 10 Nov 11.00 – 2.00pm approx. Lord Mayor’s Show The procession made up of many and remarkable floats will fill the space between Bank and Aldwych, a distance over three and a half miles long. Please note that there will be no fireworks display this year. After the wonderful Diamond Jubilee and Olympic celebrations this summer, it was felt that there are only so many fireworks that should be sent up in one year.

10.00 - 12.30pm or 1.30 – 4.00pm Gatton Park - Family Christmas Decoration Making Come along for an afternoon of creating Christmas wreaths and other decorations from the natural materials of Gatton Park. Cost Adults £8.00; children: £5.00

Sun 2 Dec 11.00 – 3.00pm Morden Hall Park - Tree Dressing Come to the Stableyard and celebrate their trees by helping to dress them with your handmade crafts. Free event.

Wed 5 Dec - Sun 23 Dec Wed – Fri & Sun 2.00 -5.00pm; Sat 10.00 – 5.00pm

Whitehall - A Victorian Christmas The ground floor rooms at Whitehall will be decorated in the style of a Victorian Christmas. Free entry.

Sat 8 Dec 2.30 – 4.00pm Whitehall - Christmas Arts & Crafts Workshop Festive arts and crafts, including making a stained glass window to put up at home. Suitable for 4 - 11 year olds. £3.00 per child.

Wed 12 Dec 10.30am Bach to Baby Wimbledon Concert: Carolling all the way Holy Trinity Church 234 Broadway SW19 1SB www.bachtobaby.com/tickets A festive concert for the whole family, featuring Katie Stillman (violin), Ruth O’Reilly (french horn), and Miaomiao Yu (piano). Rejoice with Brahm’s great Horn Trio, Handel’s Messiah, and the luxurious Schumann Adagio and Allegro. Join them as they sing some of your favourite Christmas carols around the piano. 10:00am: “Monmouth Coffee Mingle”; 10:30am: the hour long concert begins. Adults: £10.00 on the door, discounts available online, children FREE.Special offers available on their website or facebook e-ticketing.

Wed 12 Dec 5.00 – 9.00pm Whitehall - Late Night Opening

Mon - Sat 9.00am - 4.30pm Sun 10.00am - 4.00pm Priory Farm - Festive Trail on the Discovery Walk Sandy Lane, South Nutfield, Redhill RH1 4EJ 07754 188824 www.prioryfarm.co.uk This is a great opportunity to get all the family out for a breath of fresh air and the children will love rushing around the 40 acre Discovery Walk, finding the answers to this lighthearted festive quiz. Please note the walk is closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Discovery Walk entrance £2.25 Festive Quiz Trail £1.00 per child.

Fri 14 Dec 7.00 - 8.30 pm Morden Hall Park - A Traditional Christmas Visit the Snuff Mill to enjoy refreshments and an illustrated talk about Christmas traditions by the blue badge tour guide. £3.00.

Sat 15 Dec 2.30 – 4.00pm Whitehall - Christmas Arts & Crafts Workshop Festive arts and crafts, including making a lantern to hang in your window or on the Christmas tree. Suitable for 4-11 year olds. £3.00 per child.

Sun 16 Dec 2.00 – 3.30pm Sutton Ecology Centre Activity Hand-made Seasonal Decorations workshop Find out how to make your own Christmas decorations at home this year, using natural, sustainable and recycled materials. £3.50 per person or £10.00 per family. Suitable for everyone. Booking is essential.

Diary dates for grown-ups NCT SUTTON & EPSOM BRANCH Kingswood Golf Club, Sandy Lane KT20 6NE enquiries-sutton@nct.org.uk Sat 24 Nov., 7.00 – 12.00am

Winter Wonderland Ball Get into the Christmas spirit with a fantastic Ball to raise money for the NCT. This glamorous, black-tie event will start with drinks from 7.00pm, followed by a four course meal at 8.00pm. There will be a live band - the fantastic Avenue Sound, an auction in aid of the NCT and a casino. Tickets are £45.00 per person. To book, send them an email stating how many tickets you require and 22

any special dietary requirements. They will respond with details of how to pay. SUTTON ECOLOGY CENTRE EVENTS The Old Rectory, Festival Walk, Carshalton SM5 3NY 020 8770 5820 (enqs); 020 8770 5822 (bookings) www.sutton.gov.uk Sat 8 Dec., 10.00 - 12.00pm

Winter Wreath Making

Come and enjoy a relaxing morning collecting materials to make your own all-natural winter wreath to take home. Your door will be the talk of the town. £5 per adult. Suitable for adults only (16+). Booking

is essential. WHITEHALL 1 Malden Road, Cheam, SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 www.friendsofwhitehallcheam. co.uk Fri 30 Nov., 8.00pm

A Dickens of a Christmas An evening of Christmas readings and music with the Whitehall singers and readers. Mulled cordial and mince pies will be served during the interval. A perfect way to enjoy the festive season. £7.50 (£6.00 for friends of Whitehall). Please contact Carol Jenkin on 020 8337 2503.

For a regularly updated list of local family events visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

November-December 2012

competitions

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

Competitions for Families Readers Enter at www.Families-LSB.co.uk/competitions

Families is offering you the chance to win one family ticket (admits four) to see Tall Stories’ Room on the Broom at the Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue, this Christmas. This spellbinding adventure from the creators of The Gruffalo was adapted for the stage from the best-selling book by Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson MBE and Axel Scheffler.

Win a £200 Shopping Spree in time for Christmas. New clothes make any occasion extra special. The Polarn O. Pyret Christmas collection for newborn to age 12 years is now in stores and online. Cosy cotton PJ’s that will last until next Christmas Eve, a new party dress that can handle spills, or an extra cute outfit for Christmas Day. Free gift wrapping is always available at Polarn O. Pyret. See the website for your nearest store.

To have a chance to win, enter our online competition before Friday 15 November. Enter at www.Families-LSB.co.uk/competitions

Closing date 10 December 2012. Terms and conditions apply. Winner will be notified via email on 11 December.

Peter’s Railways Books: Buy one, Get one FREE Families Magazine readers can get a free Peter’s Railway book with every book purchased via the Peter’s Railway website www.petersrailway.com. These pocket-sized books combine entertaining adventure stories while introducing some simple technical information. To get the free book, go to the website www.petersrailway.com, enter the online bookshop and click the book you would like to buy. In the personalised dedication box type “FAMDEC” and any dedication you would like. Peter’s Railways will send your chosen book together with another book from the series. Closing date 31 December 2012.

classified adverts Services

Friendly & Cost Effective Services Including Self Assessments, Sole Trader & Limited Accounts email: info@prime-numbers.biz or call: 07961455970

Wagging Tails - Home dog boarding – Your dog stays in a family home. An alternative to kennels. 01483 592612 www.waggingtailsuk.co.uk/kt

Parties FLOSSIE 020 8647 9967 1 or 2 hour Fun Filled Parties with Magic, Music, Games & Balloons. 07954 564372

www.magictheo.com

Fun Entertaining Magic for Children & Adults Free Magic Wand & Certificate for Birthday Child

020 8642 6519 (Magic Circle & Equity)

www.theatrebugs.co.uk

Health www.tmobilemassage.com

Holistic Relaxing Therapeutic Swedish Deep Tissue & Sports Massage at Home

07711 724129 (ITEC Qual - 20+ Years’)

For details of local Christmas events, check our constantly-updated listing at the Families London-Surrey Borders website, www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on Tuition Southern Tutors 11+ tuition; GCSE; ‘A’ level 11+ courses; 1:1 tuition 01372 721119 07986 564 651 info@southerntutors.co.uk www.southerntutors.co.uk

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11 PLUS TUITION & Mock Exam Practice West & South West London Y3 (pre-Plus), Y4 and Y5 (11 Plus) State Grammar and Private Schools Bursaries and Scholarships Mathematics, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, Exam Practice, Interview Technique

Classes Le Club Français / French Club French private tuition in CR area. 07711 993 129 jlslparsons@yahoo.com

Get a sneak preview of the show at www.roomonthebroomlive.com

11+ Tuition Saturdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Fee only £40 for 3 hours.

Highly Experienced Graduate Teachers

Maths, English, VR & NVR Weekly homework given.

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New Tutors–please check website for details

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BOOK NOW!

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies November-December 2012 Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187 020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk

Families London-Surrey Borders November-December 2012

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Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

November-December 2012