FREE
IN THIS ISSUE
What’s on Education Clubs & classes New Year, New You
January/February 2022
Familiesonline.co.uk
Familiesonline.co.uk January/February 1
NEWS
Help fund vital brain tumour research Join Wear A Hat Day! Did you know brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer? This is an unacceptable fact which leading charity, Brain Tumour Research is determined to change. Join thousands of children, parents and teachers on Friday 25 March for Wear A Hat Day – a great way to bring people together and raise vital March sees the arrival of Brain funds Brain Tumour Research. Tumour Awareness Month. Coming towards the end of the month, Register your school, community or several celebrities will be lending family event today HERE and you’ll their support to the incredible receive a free fundraising pack. hattastic Wear a Hat Day campaign. The latest set of collectable Wear A Hat Day pin badges have a regal theme in celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year. Order your box of badges to sell when you register! Funds raised from Wear A Hat Day will help towards establishing a new Research Centre of Excellence.
Danny Clarke
Dame Sheila Hancock DBE
Caprice Bourret
Sarah Beeny
www.wearahatday.org MARCH 2022
2 January/February
#WearAHatDay
Registered charity number 1153487 (England and Wales) SC046840 (Scotland)
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CONTENTS
In this issue 2 4 10 12 14 14 18 22 26 31
News Education Early years Tween Health New Year, New You Classes & clubs What’s On Family life Activities
CONTACT US: EDITOR:
Heather Waddington T: 01923 237 004 E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF LISTINGS AND FEATURES EDITOR:
Anna Blackshaw E: Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk WWW.FAMILIESNWLONDON.CO.UK
Where is Families North West London?
Competition winners from our September/October issue Sally Garbutt, Joanne Banks, Petra Dias, Frankie Salter, Nichola Woad, Cindy Baldwin, Alina Ali, Cherelle St Hilaire, Gemma Lovegrove and Farrah Orr who received a Tales of Me book and to Hina Wajahat, Claire Goodfellow and Fran Dobbins who received an Art Lab Pouring Studio. And, for the recipients of plasticine gifts or Equazen family packs, click here.
Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west. You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know.
0203 887 0486
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January/February 3
EDUCATION
Ground, Grass and Sky Handwriting Guide
Help your child practise their handwriting and learn to make their letters the correct size with this activity from PlanBee. Download the instructions and practice sheets to get started.
Handwriting practice sheets Use the example on the previous page to show your child how each letter should look in relation to the ground, the grass and the sky. Get your child to write the letters of the alphabet using the dots below.
Handwriting practice sheets Use these sheets for your child to practise their handwriting and learn to make their letters the correct size. Below you can see an example of how each letter should look in relation to the ground, the grass and the sky.
Handwriting practice sheets Once your child has joined the dotted letters on the previous sheet, let them have a go at writing their own on the ground, grass and sky lines below. Give them the example letters on the first sheet to help.
Using this example as a guide, get your child to trace the dotted letters on the next sheet and then move on to writing the letters themselves on the final sheet.
DOWNLOAD FOR YOUR KIDS HERE!
4 January/February
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EDUCATION
Show your child how to hold a pencil Watch video!
Dyslexia
The
Learning Wheel
Specialist Assessor
Mrs Darshani Nardani (Hons)
DBS Checked
Qualified Teacher AMBDA PG Diploma Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia) Assessment Practising Certificate PATOSS, SASC, British Dyslexia Association
Dyslexia Assessment & Consultancy
07930 557 870 Familiesonline.co.uk
MATHS & ENGLISH
TUITION For Ages 4 to 17 GCSE, SATs, 11+ Based in The Barn House - HA4
0208 868 7672 thelearningwheel.co.uk info@thelearningwheel.co.uk January/February 5
EDUCATION
Is your child ready for SATs? By Jemma Zoe Smith SATs have been cancelled for the last two years but this year they’ll be going ahead. If you’re a parent of a child who will be sitting SATs this year or even next, you might be concerned about how the disruption to their education during the pandemic may affect their exam performance - a worry which is doubled for those If the situation is causing you stress, parents whose children are also it’s important not to transmit that sitting the 11+. to your child, whose performance won’t be improved by exam nerves. The good news is that if you’re addressing these concerns now, So what are the next steps? you’re doing so in good time. There’s plenty of opportunity for READ MORE your child to make up any gaps in their learning before the exams roll around. The first thing to do as a parent is not to worry too much! While your child’s schooling has been disrupted, so has that of all their peers. It’s likely results will be poorer across the board, which is reassuring if you’re considering a selective school for your child’s secondary education. What’s more, any teacher looking at your child’s exam results in the future will consider the extraordinary situation in which their studies took place.
Win a Gingersnap Balance Bike Ages worth 2 to 4 years £119! Perfect to get little adventurers started! APPLY HERE
Magazine 6 January/February
T&Cs apply
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EDUCATION
Holland House School
Hujjat Primary School Where education is more than what you know, it’s who you can become...
APPLY NOW For Reception 2022 Admission
An independent, non-denominational school in NW London, for boys and girls from 4 to 11 years.
7+ ASSESSMENT TAKING PLACE ON MONDAY 24TH JANUARY 2022 Please contact the Registrar to book your place
Registration for Reception (Sept 2023 entry) is open Private School Tours available. Please contact the Registrar on 020 8958 6979 HHS encourages independence, individuality and creativity, whilst providing a robust, quality education. Our pupils are encouraged to aspire and achieve across the curriculum in a caring community which fast becomes, and remains, a family.
For further details, please visit our website.
Hujjat Primary School is an inclusive Free School located in Harrow, providing a values based approach to learning, focusing on academic excellence, character development and well-being, inspired by Islamic values. Brookshill, Harrow Weald, HA3 6RR Telephone: 020 8189 9730
admissions@hollandhouse.org.uk
www.hollandhouse.org.uk
ai162454382311_A77596_Reddiford School_General Advert_FV GOLD.pdf HujjatPrimary.org | @HujjatPrimary | office@HujjatPrimary.org
REDDIFORD SCHOOL Long Established Reputation for Academic Excellence run by the team behind
THE HALL SCHOOL, NORTHWOOD
Limited places available in our Early Years & Certain Year Groups
An independent day school for boys and girls aged 2 years 9 months to 11
Pre-Preparatory School & Nursery
for boys & girls aged 3 months to 7 years Term time only OR all year round provision Small ability grouped classes Enthusiastic, dedicated staff Caring, family atmosphere Vouchers & Free Entitlement Preparation for entrance tests 10% Scholarships / bursaries Excellent academic results 7+ exam tutoring
Email us to arrange a visit info@roxethmead.com
25 Middle Road, Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0HW
www.roxethmead.com Familiesonline.co.uk
4th IN THE TOP 100 INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS (Sunday Times 2019)
• • • • •
Academically selective 100% excellence in all areas - Independent Schools Inspectorate Children prepared for Independent / Grammar Schools’ entrance exams Academic excellence in a warm and caring environment Outstanding staff / pupil ratio across all year groups
To visit the school, please contact:
The Admissions Secretary, Reddiford School, 38 Cecil Park, Pinner, Middx, HA5 5HH. Tel: 020 8866 0660 • Email: admissions@reddiford.org.uk
Established. 1913
www.reddiford.co.uk Registered Charity Number: 312641 January/February 7
2
EDUCATION
New children’s books for 2022 Winter’s a great time of year to enjoy some fantastic children’s fiction. Here are our recommendations.
Also
Little Horror
Crocodile Hungry
Invented by Animals
Big Wig
Atlas of Amazing Migrations
by E B Goodale Ages: 4-7
by Christiane Dorion Ages: 7-12
Rita Wants a Ninja by Maire Zepf Ages: 3+
8 January/February
by Daniel Peak Ages: 8-12
by Jonathan Hillman Ages: 4-8
The Smeds and the Smoos Board Book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler Ages: 0-2
by Eija Sumner Ages: 3-7
by Matt Sewell Ages: 7-10
Aaron Slater, Illustrator by Andrea Beaty Ages: 5-7
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D y ail t ac ivi t ie
February Half Term Fun
s
Calling all young Scientists!
Mon 14 – Fri 18 Feb From 9:30am – 2pm
Book online
Help us discover how babies & kids learn!
Common Road, Stanmore, HA7 3JF
squiresgardencentres.co.uk
We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at the Birkbeck Babylab in central London. Our prime location is easy to reach and we refund travel expenses. We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies 020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk
Lodge at
Pre-school operated by Old Macdonalds Day Nursery, open 8am – 6pm for 2 – 5 year olds Anouska’s Lodge is an exciting new addition to the Anouska’s family. Situated within the grounds of The Grove, the lodge has access to a range of outdoor spaces including the adventure park, musical trail and forest school area, all of which enable us to create an outstanding and enriching learning environment. With only 16 places available at any one time, we do have limited availability so recommend booking early! Please note - fully funded free spaces are available for 3 - 5 year olds, subject to availability. To arrange a viewing or to enquire about availability, please call Anouska’s Lodge on 01923 296047 or email anouskas-lodge@ oldmacdonaldsdaynursery.co.uk.
01923 296047 • anouskas-lodge@oldmacdonaldsdaynursery.co.uk • The Grove, Chandlers Cross, Hertfordshire, WD3 4TG
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January/February 9
EARLY YEARS
Getting more involved with your child’s development Volunteering at your child’s childcare setting is a great way to become more involved with your child’s learning and development. If you’ve previously worked with children or in childcare, that’s invaluable but you don’t actually need any experience. You may be interested in formal roles like a nursery assistant where you will receive lots of support including an induction or special training. Other roles may be more informal with flexible arrangements such as joining outings to the park, helping with a fundraising activity or running a toy library. Your child’s setting is likely to be open to ideas.
Develop and become part of a parent forum; Take up free training opportunities to help you progress into paid work; Get to know your child’s friends better; Explore new career opportunities in childcare; Give something back to your local community.
Volunteering at your child’s setting Children learn a huge amount while in quality childcare but parents can help you: remain their most important educators. Increase your enjoyment and understanding of the way your child learns; Learn new skills, gain confidence and practical experience; Make new friends and meet other parents;
Find out how to continue developing your child’s learning at home. READ MORE
Holiday clubs, Breakfast & After school club for children ages 3-11 years
10 January/February
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LOCAL NEWS
Almost 5,000 pupils with SEN, and 4 special schools in Harrow
Brent’s first ever baby bank set to open in Wembley
We are a parent support group and non-profit organisation called Special Needs Community CIC (community interest company), supporting parent carers with children and young people with SEN and disability across London. We provide information, support, and events for parents and families to navigate the SEND system and access the services they need.
Baby bank charity, Little Village, opened its fifth branch in Wembley Central at UNCLE Wembley, 7 Park Lane, HA9 7RH. It is the first baby bank in the borough of Brent.
CAN YOU HELP? Are you a local special educational needs & disability (SEND) professional or business? We are looking for a range of professionals with SEN experience who can provide specialist services for our families. Please get in touch if you are a tutor, childminder, carer/ support worker, short breaks provider. Email Olivia or find out more HERE.
Little Village is a baby bank, providing clothes, toys and equipment for babies and children up to the age of five. The charity has supported over 5000 children so far this year and has seen a huge increase in the number of families needing its help since the pandemic hit in March 2020. The space has been donated by UNCLE Wembley, who have granted Little Village a ten-year lease. For further information about Little Village, including how to volunteer or donate items or money, click HERE.
www.northlondongrammar.com
Outstanding quality of teaching, with access to state of the art technology, focusing on a broad and balanced curriculum.
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Open Morning Wednesday 12th January 2022 10am to 12:30pm
Book Online For more information, contact us at: info@northlondongrammar.com or call us at: 0208 205 0052
An Inclusive environment, where all of our students are valued, safe and happy.
Wide variety of school trips, extra curricular activities and opportunities to ensure maximum personal and professional development.
Coding class for children aged 4 to 6 years old Develop Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication
BOOK NOW AT
WWW.LITTLECODERSCLUB.CO.UK
January/February 11
TWEEN
Best skincare products for tweens We asked our friends at wearetwixt for their round up of some of the best, tween-friendly zit-zapping cleansers that avoid chemicals that can be abrasive on young, delicate skin. TROPIC Pure Lagoon Blemish Prevention Serum (£42) A gentle serum with pre-biotics builds the skin’s defences and fights acne. Olivia (12) says: ‘I put this on twice a day. It cleared my spots completely. Absolutely amazing!’ Olivia’s mum says: ‘Pricey but a little goes a long way.’ Pixi Glow Tonic (£10) Lightweight, gentle exfoliating serum which hydrates and boosts radiance. 100% chemical-free and beautifully gentle for young skin. Olivia (12) says: ‘I use this every evening and it makes my skin feel completely clean.’ Olivia’s mum says: ‘‘This has been brilliant for Olivia’s skin.’ 12 January/February
LUSH Tea Tree Water (£6) and LUSH Grease Lightning (£8) Tea tree water cleanses and helps banish spots. Grease Lightning cleanses and helps combat infection and further redness. Olivia (12) says: ‘I love how fresh these products are and how clean they feel.’
TROPIC Clear Skin BlemishFighting Mask (£20)
Designed to control the levels of sebum in the skin, preventing spots forming. Kills bacteria, draws out toxins, closes pores and soothes sore skin. Olivia (12) says: ‘My skin is sensitive and can get dry and this is so gentle and soothing. It lasts for ages too.’ Familiesonline.co.uk
TWEEN
Why Aiyven and Kirsten are Happier Every Chapter Sisters Aiyven (12) and Kirsten (13) love writing stories and both published debut novels in 2020. Families talks to them to find out more. What made you start writing stories? Our parents read stories to us every night when we were young, which opened up whole new worlds to us. From around the age of 4 or 5, we were folding pieces of paper into cards and writing stories inside them - and just never stopped! What do you like best about writing stories? The best thing is how in a few hours, a new universe can sprout out of thin air. How many stories have you written? Many of our early stories were on laptops we don’t have any more but every month we write short stories for our book subscription box, Happier Every Chapter. Over time, we’ve written at least thirty stories each. That’s excluding our books.
the beginning, build-up, climax, resolution and ending. Once you have those five factors planned, it’s just a matter of connecting the dots. Interested in Aiyven and Kirsten’s advice on story-writing? READ MORE
Protect your child online! Get a free and complete guide to parental controls*
Do you make a plan for your stories? When we were younger, we often just typed whatever came to mind, which can result in an unusual plot and a storyline that doesn’t flow very well. Now, we plan Familiesonline.co.uk
APPLY HERE * while stocks last T&Cs apply
Magazine
January/February 13
Happiness is…..a happy child! Receive a FREE Mental Health Activity Pack from Storytime for your child*
HAPPINESS i s ACTIVITY PAC ... K!
One of the big gest challen teachers and ges faced by carers is hel parents, and deal wit ping childre h their feeling n to talk abo ut s. That is wh activity pac y we create k! We recom d this me nd that you then share the read it first, ideas and act and ivities in it wit h your kids.
Be cool. Be kind. Be you!
Inside this pack:
Recognising Emoti ons ............................. 2 Feelings Are Like Rainb ows ................... 4 Resilience Tool Box .................................. 5 Fun with Framing! ..................................... 6 Gratefulness Diary .................................... 7 The Pancake of Mistak es ........................ 8 Get Active with Emoti ons! ....................... 9 Talking About Feelin gs ........................... 10 30 Things You Can Do to Feel Good! ... 11 Awesome You! ........... ............................... 13 Your Jar of Happiness ............................. 14 How to Use This Pack.. . for Grown-Ups! ........... ............................... 15
On page 17-20, there is a special section about how you can help your kids build resilience and get comfortable with their emotions!
© www.stor
With
ytimemagazi
ne.com 2021
14 pages of fun activities
Read first and then share with your child….
APPLY HERE 14 January/February
*while stocks last. T&C’s apply.
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HEALTH
How CBT can help children with anxiety By Lilly Sabir As both a clinical therapist and a mother, I know from personal and professional experience how important it is to help our children understand, identify and support their own mental wellbeing. Studies suggest that the earlier children are empowered with the resources needed to improve the way they think, the earlier positive foundations are laid that they can build on throughout their lives. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is identified as the most effective therapeutic intervention in managing anxiety. When your child expresses feeling tiredness or pain, this can be one of the most demonstrative signs they are anxious - somebody or something has triggered an emotional response within them. Children don’t know how to express and articulate emotional language in the early years but this improves with age. Tummy aches, headaches and ‘something is hurting’ is often a
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child’s way of saying whatever is going on around them has caused them stress. They need to calmly be helped to cope with that pain, using fun ways that can help them tap into the sensations occurring in their bodies and minds. It’s important to recognise when a child needs therapeutic intervention, rather than masking their emotional problems and hoping they will grow out of them; the earlier the intervention, the more effectively treatments can work. If you have a child who is suffering with anxiety-related issues, find out more about some child-friendly CBT techniques that you can use to help them.
READ MORE
January/February 15
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
Just one healthy thing
At this time of the year, we are bombarded with unrealistic health advice. So how about setting yourself an easy target of changing just one thing this New Year? © Bruce Mars from Unsplash
Consider cold water swimming
Get a fitness buddy
Take time to meditate
Start with cold water showers and build up with the Wim Hof method.
Accountability works. Find out more.
10 minutes a day can make a huge difference. Find hundreds of free meditations.
Take Vitamin D
Try forest bathing
Get quality sleep
10mg daily for adults in autumn and winter compensate for lack of UK sunshine.
Time in forest/woodland boosts your mood, health and wellbeing. Find options here. Photo: Spirited Euphoria
If your nights are disrupted, try going to bed earlier. Discover the benefits. Photo: Gabrielle Henderson from Unsplash
Photo by Ella Olsson from Pexels
Go veggie
For one day a week, skip meat. Follow MeatFreeMondays. 16 January/February
Give up alcohol
Practise gratitude
Try mindful drinking with Keeping a daily gratitude Spirited Euphoria! 100% diary can make you feel more optimistic. natural, non-alcoholic, endorphin-releasing alternative. Familiesonline.co.uk
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
Health & fitness products for parents Getting fit when you are a busy parent can be a challenge. Here are some great products to get your health and fitness mojo back in 2022.
Groov-e SportBuds
TOFOTL Cordless Jump Rope
The Leg Master®
Wireless Stereo Earphones, perfect sound, snug ear hook fit and sweat-resistant. £39.99
Practical, clever weighted, cordless skipping rope. £10.60
Improves pelvic floor health and posture through classic strength training. £89.95
Claude Leggings, Pocket Sport
Eco-friendly Yoga Mats Inspiring, colourful, sustainable. Earth & animal-friendly. £40+
The Zeno Running Pushchair
The ZENO: for push or pull running; the AVI: ‘hands free’ stroller. From £819.95
Twelve South ActionSleeve 2
Breathe Deep, Seek Peace Flower Essence
Grounded Protein Shakes
Maximum comfort, flattering, breathable fabric, quick drying. Hidden pocket. £55
Wear on upper arm and workout with Apple Watch, monitoring your progress. £34.99 Familiesonline.co.uk
Awarded ‘best better sleep’ product. £12
Dairy free, sustainable, plant-based protein shakes. 20g of plant protein. £19.95 (6 pack). January/February 17
CLUBS & CLASSES
Local Clubs & Classes Directory Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those Ninja Warrior Watford with poor co-ordination, (WD25) dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine The Ninja Warrior UK motor difficulties. Call Usha Adventure Park is a supervised activity and fitness Patel 07766 837 616 venue inspired by ITV’s hit programme Ninja Warrior UK! Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/ 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. EDUCATION SUPPORT Call 07985 588 085.
ACTIVITY CENTRES
Academic Tuition from Little Big Leaders (HA8 & WD23) Maths/English or Phonics & Writing for 3.5 to 11 year olds. Childcare vouchers accepted. Free trial lessons.
The Learning Wheel (Eastcote) Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. All levels from Reception to Year 11.
Ace Tutors Maths online tuition in small groups on Zoom. All abilities years 7 to 13. Free noobligation trial lesson. Call, Vijay Bhuchar 07737 853527.
Raviv Practice London (UB5) Improve reading age by 1 year in 3 months of home-based work. Usha Patel, registered therapist, call 07766 837 616.
Code Ninjas Kids learn to code in a fun, safe, and inspiring learning environment, with a gamebased curriculum that they love. DiscoG Coding Classes and Camps Weekly Coding Programme teaches children the basics of coding. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses also available. Call Gerard on 07767 300940. Free Readers (various) We offer enrichment or extra help in reading, Maths and English, homework and test preparation from ages 3 to 11. 18 January/February
ARTS AND CRAFTS Blank Canvas Art Club Online Fine Art classes for ages 6+ teaching skills and techniques. Weekday afterschool kids classes and adult classes. Email blankcanvasartclub@gmail. com Stitch Club (HA5) Dressmaking, Stitch Clubs, Parties and Workshops for children, young people and adults in Central Pinner. Email sam@stitch.club
DANCE Street Dance Academy (various) Teach children aged 5-18 yrs every weekend
during school term time, with clubs in and around London and Hertfordshire. Plus adult Street Dance Classes and Zumba Classes in Twickenham every Wednesday. 0800 0236 236 Elina Patrou Academy of Dance (formerly The Van Niekerk Academy) (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations. Call 07555861561.
FIRST AID MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs. Call Margaret 07814 191 395.
HEALTH AND WELLBEING Etiquette and Emotions ‘Modern Youth Etiquette’ workshops to elevate your 6-12 year olds confidence and social persona. Also ‘Emotional Intelligence’ courses to develop children’s self-awareness and social skills. Call 07736 297029.
LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258. Familiesonline.co.uk
CLUBS & CLASSES
Local Clubs & Classes Directory LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Ickenham, Harrow, Stanmore and Watford. 020 8427 6595.
THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS
Phonics with Robot Reg (various) provide fun, high energy classes which teach early phonics skills to children aged 1-4 years.
SIGN LANGUAGE
P.S Theatre (WD18/HP5) An independent, local drama school with three stages to choose from. Ages 4-18. Email: jen@pstheatre.co.uk
MUSIC & MOVEMENT Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 yrs with small, agerelated classes. Call 020 8444 9435. Gymboree Play & Music Watford Sensory classes for babies, art and music classes, as well as Play and Learn classes for little ones who are on the move. Monkey Music Award-winning Monkey Music, introduces babies and young children aged 3 months to 4 years to music with a unique four-stage curriculum specifically tailored to each age group. Classes run in Uxbridge, Eastcote, Northwood,
Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills. Babies 6-30 months. Email info@singandsign.co.uk
Perform Weekly drama, dance and singing classes. Confidence building drama classes SPORTS AND EXERCISE for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama TISKA Karate games, dance and singing Learn the fascinating art of specially designed to boost Karate. Classes held weekly confidence, communication, in Harrow, Northwood and concentration and Wembley. Minimum age 4 yrs. coordination. Classes at 4 week free trial. Call 07739 Harrow, Pinner, Eastcote, 572487. Northwood, Mill Hill, Watford, Stanmore and Ickenham. Watford Cycle Hub NEW classes coming to Offering cycle repair services, Kensal Rise, Bushey and maintenance courses and Abbots Langley. Book a FREE cycle training. TRIAL class. Call 020 7255 9120.
SWIMMIMG
Aqua Vie After school weekly (Tues, Wed and Sun) classes in Bushey during term times. Call 01923 245 773.
KangaRooKids (various) Drama, Music & Movement Classes for 0-11 yrs, plus school holiday camps for 4-11 year olds. Call Ruth on 07710 802 956.
ERS BEGINN FFER O L IA C SPE
S 4 W EEK FREE Classes held Every Thursday at 5.00pm
Preston Park Primary School, College Road, Wembley, HA9 8RJ
Every Saturday at 9.00am Harrow High School, Gayton Road, Harrow, HA1 2JG
Every Saturday at 2.00pm
For more information please contact us on
07739572487
patel.karate@icloud.com
St Helens School Green Lane, Northwood, HA6 1AF
www.tiskakarate-harrow.co.uk www.tiskakarate-nortwood.co.uk www.tiskakarate-wembley.co.uk
ALL OUR INSTRUCTORS HAVE ENHANCED DISCLOSURE AND BARRING CERTIFICATES
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January/February 19
CLUBS & CLASSES
Local Clubs & Classes Directory THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS PQA (Pauline Quirk Academy) (various) PQA provides outstanding performing arts tuition for students 4–18 years. Each week students rotate through specialist sessions in Musical Theatre, Comedy and Drama and Film and TV taught by leading industry professionals. Book a free taster session at your local Academy. Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA5, HA6) Performance based theatre school for children aged 3-18 with venues based in Hatch End and Northwood. Weekly classes in Musical Theatre, Ballet, Tap, Modern, LAMDA and Acrobatics. Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by having fun! (Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill and Sudbury Hill 01923 248
294 Stanmore and Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599.
YOGA & MASSAGE Kids Yoga with Yana (Watford) Yana is a qualified Kids Yoga teacher with a passion for empowering children to be the best version of themselves through fun yoga and mindfulness practice. MD Massage Therapies Massage has many health benefits - it helps to reduce pain, anxiety and fatigue, helps with repetitive injuries, increases range of motion, relieves stress and much more! Gift vouchers available. Introductory offer - 20% off first treatment. Call 07950 846748 for more information. CLASSES FOR GROWNUPS Woodcarving (Iver) A small group who would welcome new members. Drop in for a chat! Meet Monday mornings 9.30am-12.30pm at Evreham Centre, Swallow Street, Iver. webb1959@btinternet.com
World of Children’s Yoga Empowering Children and Families to Live in Joy and Thrive. In Harrow, Watford, Northwood and surrounding areas. Classes & Workshops: Yoga in Education Nurseries, Primary and Secondary Schools Weekend - Children’s, Family, Mum and Daughter Yoga *Launching January 2022* WOCY Weekend Power Mornings: 30 minute BiteSize classes to share short yoga sequences you and your Family can practise every day for; Better sleep, Strengthening, Flexibility, Confidence and more… For more information, contact Anjli on 07784 370034.
Please say you saw these in
01923 250 440 watford@gymbo.co.uk 20 January/February
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CLUBS & CLASSES
Happy, Confident New Year from Perform
Book a FREE Trial today!
Perform, the UK’s biggest centrally run drama school, is getting 2022 off to a flying start with a new term of classes focusing on building confidence and social skills. How have your children adjusted after the pandemic? Many have struggled to reconnect and reestablish their old friendships and confidence. Child psychologist and author, Linda Blair, says that classes like these: “can help children recover from social isolation as they encourage communication and effective social interactions. Drama helps a child’s ability to understand and interpret things like eye contact and can help in countless other ways both socially and cognitively.” Fortunately, Perform classes are packed with confidence-boosting drama-based games and activities, allowing every child to shine as we explore two exciting termly themes.
Children ages 4 to 7 will trek off on a jungle adventure while ages 7 to 12 enjoy a thrilling adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. What’s more, Perform’s jungle theme becomes a West End musical during February half-term, featuring a professional adult cast, stunning costumes and fabulous music. Click HERE for more details and to book tickets. Book a no-obligation FREE trial at a local class in Harrow, Eastcote, Pinner, Northwood, Stanmore, Kensal Rise, Ickenham, Watford, Bushey or Abbots Langle HERE, or call 020 7255 9120. ** SPECIAL OFFER ** Perform is offering Families Hampshire readers a special £40 introductory discount on bookings made by 7 February – just quote LNW70222.
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January/February 21
CHILDREN’S THEATRE
What’s on - Children’s Theatre All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed. The Alban Arena 01727 844488 Sat 26–Sun 27 Feb Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever Peppa Pig is excited to be going on a special day out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig . Artsdepot 020 8369 5454 Sun 23 Jan Woodland Tales with Granddad Featuring a cast of extraordinary puppets, this uproarious family show has an important and timely environmental message to share. Ages 3+ Sun 6 Feb - The Hug A brand-new show by Long Nose Puppets, based on the heart-warming and funny book The Hug by Eoin McLaughlin and Polly Dunbar. Ages 2-8 yrs Sat 12 - Thu 17 Feb Dear Zoo Live Ben and Sally are searching for the perfect pet, but instead the zoo send a far too big elephant, a far too grumpy camel, and a far too jumpy frog. With lots of laughs and audience interaction. 18 mths–6 yrs. Wed 16 Feb Aakash Odedra Company: Little Murmur Based on the true story of one child’s struggle with letters and words, Ages 7+. 22 January/February
Fri 18 Feb Vinland: A Viking Adventure Set sail with Freydis and her son Snorri on a Viking adventure brought to life through storytelling, animation and live music. Ages 8+. Sun 27 Feb - Pebble on the Beach Featuring a lively mix of dancing, singing and puppetry. Ages 3+ The Beck Theatre 020 8561 8371 Sat 29 - Sun 30 Jan Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever Prepare for the brand new Peppa Pig live show packed full of songs, games and laughter, it really is the best day ever for Peppa Pig fans! Sun 13 - Tue 15 Feb The Tiger Who Came To Tea Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! Chickenshed 020 8292 9222 Fri 21 Jan - Fri 25 Mar Planet Play Spring Season A magical world of sensory learning, wonder and exploration, for babies and toddlers aged 0-3 years. Sat 22 Jan – Sat 26 Mar Tales from the Shed Spring Season Tales from the Shed are
vibrant, inclusive shows, perfect for young children. Sun 13 Feb - Baby Gospel Family Concert Baby Gospel is an uplifting family concert of soul, Motown and gospel music, featuring the astonishing vocal talents of London’s CK Gospel Choir. Harrow Arts Centre 0208 416 8989 Sat 12 – Sun 13 Feb The Wind in the Willows Pack your picnics and join Ratty, Mole, Badger, and the fantastically irrepressible Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime! Ages 4+ Little Angel Theatre 020 7226 1787 Until Sun 23 Jan There May Be a Castle A remarkable story about love, loss and the power of the imagination. Adapted into a musical puppetry production by the creators of Little Angel Theatre’s The Singing Mermaid, The Smartest Giant in Town and The Pixie and the Pudding. Ages 7-11 years. Until Sun 30 Jan The Storm Whale A tale of friendship between Noi and a whale washed up on the beach during a storm. Ages 4-8.
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CHILDREN’S THEATRE
What’s on - Children’s Theatre All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed. The O2 Arena 0208 463 2000 Tue 15 – Thu 17 Feb L.O.L. Surprise! LIVE Featuring outrageous choreography, elaborate sets, flawless costumes and brand-new music, the show will be a concert come dance party for all to enjoy. Pump House 01923 241 362 Fri 21 – Sat 29 Jan Legally Blonde The Musical Performed by Pump House CYT. From three triumphant years in the West End, the international award-winning hit Legally Blonde comes to Wataford. Puppet Theatre Barge 020 7249 6876 Sat 15 Jan – Sun 6 Feb The Red Balloon The Red Balloon by String Theatre tells the story of a small boy’s friendship with a balloon and explores the poignancy of a child’s imagination. The Radlett Centre 01923 859291 Sat 22 Jan Captain Calamity - Nutty New Year Adventure They’ll be loads of magic, songs, challenges, bubbles, giant balloons and custard pies as Captain Calamity sets to task cleaning up his act in this family show. Familiesonline.co.uk
Fri 4 – Sat 5 Feb Oh No, George! Adapted from the awardwinning picture book by Chris Haughton, this brand new show for children aged 3+ uses acrobatics, slapstick comedy, Sign Supported English and live music to bring George’s joyful escapades to life. Sun 27 Feb Peter Pan - Tiny Mites Fly with Peter and Wendy to Neverland, with original songs and puppets in this interactive, quirky, fun and fast paced show. With colouful characters, beautiful bubbles, magic tricks and original songs. Sadler’s Wells Theatre 020 7863 8000 Until Sun 30 Jan Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! New Adventures Tchaikovsky’s glorious score and Anthony Ward’s delectable sets and costumes combine with Bourne’s dazzling choreography to create a fresh and charmingly irreverent interpretation of the traditional Christmas favourite. Watersmeet 01923 711 063 Thu 20 – Sat 22 Jan Peter Pan Peter Pan tells the classic J.M. Barrie tale of a young
boy who refuses to grow up. Fri 18 Feb - Cartoon Circus All the fun of the circus comes to Watersmeet when the laughter-packed stage show combines the comedy of pantomime with the thrill of the circus. Watford Palace Theatre 01923 225 671 Fri 11 - Sat 12 Feb Underwater Come with us into the deep blue sea in Underwater, a magical dance piece for babies aged 0-2. This gorgeous multi-sensory show is sure to engage your baby’s imagination. Sat 19 Feb Fireman Sam Saves The Circus – Live! Join Sam, Penny, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman in an all singing, dancing, action-packed show. You can become a fire-fighter cadet and then watch the magic of the circus.
To advertise in our next issue call Heather on 01923 237 004 January/February 23
WHAT’S ON
WHAT’S ON NEAR YOU JANUARY/FEBRUARY 22
30+
family activities and events
Download your free guide here 24 January/February
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FOOD
Winter warmers Get your big bowls and mugs out and make some of these fabulous, hearty seasonal soups and hot drinks with the kids.
Real tomato soup
Hot butter beer (no alcohol!)
Alphabet soup
Green pea and ham soup
Mini cob loaf sweet potato soup
White hot chocolate
Hot chocolate snowmen
Kids’ minestrone soup
Child-friendly hot toddy
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January/February 25
FAMILY LIFE
Protect your child online
Try Storytime, the world’s best story magazine!
The internet is a fantastic place to learn, play and contact friends and family. However, just like the real world, it’s not safe for children to navigate alone.
Special Full of fairy tales, adventures, myths Reader Offer and legends, tales from other cultures, real life stories and awesome animals, Storytime is the world’s best story magazine.
Save 15% on complete guide to parental controls (E-book/PB) Welcome to the new book, which aims to make it easier to protect our children online!
Leading children’s charities and parent groups agree that parents need more help to understand potential online dangers and understand how best to react when our children are upset or disturbed by something they have seen online. Protecting children of the digital age contains over 130 pages of information, advice, tips and step by step guides to setting parental controls on the most popular devices, Apps, platforms and games. Use code FAM15 at check out here to obtain the e-book for Special just £5.94 or the Reader paperback for just Offer £13.59.
Save 50% off your first 4 issues - just £9.99!
It’s packed with wonderful stories for children and parents to read, love and share, as well as puzzles, activities and games. All 52 pages are beautifully illustrated and printed on quality paper so they can be treasured, read and re-read. No adverts, plastic toys or packaging and each copy arrives in a specially illustrated envelope, so your child has all the excitement of receiving their own mail. Plus, each month, there are free home learning resources and fun activities to bring the stories to life. More info and apply for offer. Follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
26 January/February
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FAMILY LIFE
Moving on after separation and divorce By Adele Ballantyne At Only Mums and Only Dads, we get many emails expressing concern at the way an ex-partner has introduced their new partner to the children. Often these emails report that the children have become upset as a result. So we asked Adele Ballantyne for her advice on getting this right. Separating when you have children isn’t easy but as a new ‘normal’ begins to emerge, you may find yourself or your ex-partner starting to think about moving on with the ‘adult’ part of life. So, what happens when you want to start socialising and even dating again?
definitely worth discussing and agreeing a plan with your ex-partner about how you would manage the introduction of any new, long-term partner to your children. READ MORE
Before dating, I would say that it’s important to take time to heal, to reflect and think about who you are and what you want going forward. But, of course, you will want to socialise. Many parents use the time whilst their children are with their other parent to start socialising, keeping it separate from their parenting role initially. Of course, it’s okay to tell your children, especially older ones, offering reassurance if you meet resistance. When you do feel ready to start dating, to avoid disputes, it is Familiesonline.co.uk
January/February 27
FAMILY LIFE
Top car seat suggestions Need a new car seat this year? Kickstart your research with these nine top ADAC safety-approved models.
Joie Spin 360 Group 0+1
Cosy N Safe Merlin 360 Group 0+/1 0 to 18kg. Birth to 4yrs. £200
Up to 18kg. 3mths to 4yrs. £325
Maxi Cosi Axiss Swivelling
Graco Milestone All-in-One Group 0+/1/2/3
Nuna Myti Group 1/2/3
Cosatto Judo Group 1/2/3
Halfords Essential Group 1/2/3
Birth to 18kg. Birth to 4yrs. From £199.
9 to 18kg. 9mths to 4yrs. £139
Joie Baby Bold Group 1/2/3 9 to 36kg. 9mths to 12yrs. £179.99
28 January/February
Birth to 36kg. Birth to 12 yrs. £210
9 to 36kg. 9mths to 12 yrs. £180
Britax Romer Dualfix M i-Size
9 to 36kg. 15mths to 12 yrs. £325
9 to 36kg. 9mths to 12yrs. £40 Familiesonline.co.uk
FAMILY LIFE
Family tech ideas The latest in technological innovation – maybe you can find a bargain in the January sales?
Symfonisk Picture Frame with WiFi Speaker Your favourite sounds from your favourite picture! £179
Bonaok Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone Enjoy family karaoke at home. £29.99
Oculus Quest 2 Virtual Reality Headset
Use headset and app to jump into VR. £299.
Facebook Portal - da Vinci miniMaker Illuminator Light Up Smart Video Calling Drone 3D Printer Video call others on their devices with WhatsApp/ Messenger, even if they don’t have Portal. £60.
First-time users 3D printer. Great for young minds and STEM learning. £284.40
Philips NeoPix Easy Heated Throw Perfect for snuggling up Home Projector
For cosy winter nights in. £99.99
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with the family. £53
Delivers an amazing light show. USB and batteryoperated remote control. £29.99
Nanit Smart Baby Monitor
Peace of mind. A crystalclear overhead view of your baby’s cot. From £199 January/February 29
FAMILY LIFE
Sensible safety supplies It’s a great time of year to check that you have all the right protection to keep your children safe at home.
Carbon Monoxide Alarm Essential if you use gas, LPG, oil or wood at home. £14
Cable Tidy Unit
The easiest way to keep cables away from children. Click-lock lid. £17.90
Bath & Room Thermometer
Flashes/beeps when water is too hot/cold for your child. Floats in bath. £11.49 30 January/February
St John Ambulance Travel First Aid Kit Important at home and when away. £18.60
Stove & Hob Guard
Protects from stove-top dangers. Adjustable. Suitable for gas and electric. £37.99
Magnetic Child Locks
Corner Protectors
Oven Door Guard
Door Slam Protector
No DIY skills required. Fit lock and catch simultaneously. £19.95
Prevents little hands from opening the oven and getting injured or burned. £6.49
Easy to install. Larger than others. Soft protection from sharp corners. £6.99
Protects fingers from door slamming and children from getting locked in. From £6.99 Familiesonline.co.uk
ACTIVITIES
Winter boredom busters Virtual fun
Take a ride on a virtual roller coaster. Check out 10 of the best virtual rides. Go on a virtual tour of a zoo, aquarium or science centre. Here’s some of the world’s best. Explore breath-taking scenery with a virtual visit to America’s greatest national parks. Drop in on London - visit a museum, Brick Lane, Houses of Parliament and more. Take a plunge and swim with wild dolphins. Marvel at the magic of nature’s beauty by gazing at the Northern Lights.
Kitchen capers
Try a new cookie recipe, suggestions here. Bonus idea: Set up a camera or smart phone and film a cooking show! Make ice cream in a bag, recipe here. No need for a fancy ice cream maker! Make slime, instructions here. Make some DIY play-dough, recipe here. Have a pizza party, DIY pizza recipes here. Throw an afternoon tea party for the family, see children’s tea party ideas.
Game time
Educational
Learn and play a new card game, here are 12 classic card games.
Conduct a science experiment, find 31 easy science experiments using common household items.
Play family charades. Choose from 100s of ideas with this online random charade’s generator.
Put on a family magic show, here are 13 easy tricks to learn. Dice games teach maths and other skills. Here are some great options. Two truths and a lie. Play two truths and a lie, See some childfriendly examples. Have a bingo tournament. Try this online Bingo Card Generator.
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Check out the National Literacy Trust’s list of podcasts here.
Have an extra Amazon box laying around? 32 fun, creative, and educational things to do with a cardboard box. Create a message for the present and the future with a Sustainable Development Time Capsule.
Practise a new life skill with your kids, here are 19 life skills you can teach your child at home.
January/February 31
ACTIVITIES
DIY board games from overseas Fed up with the board games in the cupboard? Make and try these fascinating alternatives curated from overseas by www.whatdowedoallday.com
Watermelon Chess Country of origin: China
Kaooa Country of origin: India
Nine holes Country of origin: England
Fighting Serpents Country of origin: New Mexico
Lu Lu Dice Country of origin: Hawaii
Picaria
Country of origin: American South West
Fox & Geese Country of origin: Scandinavia
Shisima Country of origin: Kenya
Tapatan Country of origin: Philippines
32 January/February
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ACTIVITIES
Chinese New Year crafts Chinese New Year falls on 1 February this year and offers the perfect inspiration for kids to get crafty!
Year of the Tiger paper bag puppet
Chinese lantern
Chinese New Year candle holders
Tangram puzzle
Mr Panda craft
Fortune Cookies
Chinese New Year’s pinwheel
Rattle drum
Paper plate Chinese dragon
Familiesonline.co.uk
January/February 33
ACTIVITIES
Wild winter activities Playing outside is important for kids, even in winter. Here are some great outdoor activity ideas to keep them busy.
Build teeny tiny twig rafts
Rain paint
Make a muddy water filter
Make a mini pond in a pot
Do some wild weaving
Make a magic potion
Make a wormery
Create frozen sun catchers
Build a bird box
34 January/February
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