Families London SW Nov-Dec 2019 Issue 291

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Christmas 2019 We’ve done hours of researching so you don’t have to

IN THIS ISSUE

Where is Santa?

Christmas fairs, shows and pantomimes Holiday activities | Win free tickets!

Issue 291 November/December 2019

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In this issue 10 to 11

12 to 18

20 to 21

OUR TOP TEN

EDUCATION

CHRISTMAS SHOWS

Our choice of what to do, where to go, what to see this Christmas.

Spotlight on Clapham Manor School and The Moat

All the best family Christmas shows and pantomimes!

22 to 23

24 to 25

26 to 29

WHERE IS SANTA?

PULL OUT ADVENT CALENDAR

PARTIES

We’ve been seeking him everywhere: see where we have found him ready and waiting in his grotto!

Will you do one random Act of Kindness a day until the Big Day?

Classic party games and local entertainers

30 to 33

34 to 35

37

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

EXERCISE CLASSES...

FAMILY HEALTH

The children won’t get bored these Christmas holidays!

...WHERE YOU CAN TAKE YOUR BABY

Many families will be dealing with cancer this Christmas

41 to 47 WHAT’S ON

Diary dates • Carol services • Christmas fairs • Theatre • Ideas for the weekend • Museums and galleries

To advertise call Tel: 020 8696 9680 Editorial: editor@FamiliesSW.co.uk News: news@FamiliesSW.co.uk Adverts/Artwork: adverts@FamiliesSW.co.uk Events/Diary Dates/What’s On: whatson@FamiliesSW.co.uk Next Issue: January/February 2020 ISSN 1354-9553.

All contents ©Families SW 2019.

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• Families London South West is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. • The contents of Families London South West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London South West. • Designed and Printed by Ridgeway Press, Wilts. • Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families SW, our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. • Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources.

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November/December 2019 • Families South West 5

Wonderbooks fill the shelves at Clapham Manor Primary School Powerful real life stories that champion the resilience in every child Wonderbooks is a new children’s book subscription from Save the Children, which works to improve the lives of children, and tells the real stories of children around the world – from refugee camps in Lebanon to floating villages in Nepal.

October 29th saw not only the opening night of Clapham Manor Primary School’s newly refurbished library, but a reading from Wonderbooks, a new addition to the library’s bookshelves.

“Clapham Manor uses books as a way to help the children understand and appreciate differences in cultures and beliefs.

They even run full school art projects so children can express what they learned through the books in a different medium. I think it’s inspiring how the school community came together to fund raise around improving reading standards. Our new library is a real testament to what you can achieve if you work together.” – Parent at the school and PTA Chair.

On opening night the audience heard the story of Munni, a young girl from India who learned to read when girls were not allowed, and taught other girls to read as well.

Clapham Manor immediately connected with the Wonderbooks stories that champion the power, resilience and potential in every child, no matter their background.

A belief that runs from classroom to classroom throughout the school.

In the 2018/2019 academic year, the school prioritised improving reading and put plans in place to boost the reading levels of its student body. Funds were raised by the school’s Parent and Teacher Association to refurbish the tired library, and stock its shelves full of new books —creating a cosy space for children and parents to come together after school and read.

“Reading is essential to our children’s learning, knowledge and understanding of our community and the world. By having this new relaxing library space and a diverse selection of literature, we will enhance our children’s enjoyment and love of literature, enabling them to use their imaginations, further their knowledge and continue their learning journey.” – Head Teacher at Clapham Manor Primary School.

They continuously offer programmes for parents and carers, helping to provide them with the skills needed to support their children’s core learning and development at home.

The primary school is not new to Save the Children, having previously run two of their UK Programmes: Families and Schools Together and Families Connect, which empower, engage and build on parents’ skills to support their children’s learning at home.

The charity’s UK programmes and campaigns champion the importance of parental engagement and the power of reading, playing and chatting with children in their early years to boost their development.

In March 2019, Clapham Manor was delighted to hear that they were awarded the Basic Skills Quality Mark in recognition of its improving provision, practice and

performance. The school nurtures their parent and carer community and actively engages them in their children’s early learning and literacy development.

Italian Tuition with Laura Turinetto

Fully qualified, native teacher with over 25 years of experience Laura is passionate about making learning languages fun and draws on her life coaching skills for great results. Teaching students from 3 to 103 years old laura.turinetto@admelioracademy.com

Tel: 07940 423 710

6 Families South West • November/December 2019

GCSE & A LEVEL Via Skype/Home Studio

With a subscription to Wonderbooks you can receive one bedtime story per month for 3 months for just £9 per month.

For more information visit www.wonderbooks.org.uk.

To read more about Clapham Manor Primary School visit http://claphammanor.lambeth.s ch.uk and for more information on Save the Children see www.savethechildren.org

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Cover photo competition Thank you to all who have entered the competition and to those who engaged with us on Facebook. It has been such fun to go through the beautiful entries you sent us via Facebook @FamiliesSWLon. Congratulations to Tanya Xuereb, from Wimbledon, who has taken the cover shot for our Christmas issue!

This is Nina Xuereb our cover star. She is 3 years old and lives in Wimbledon Park together with her mum and dad and big brother Tommy, who is 5. She attends Wimbledon Park Nursery school. The picture was taken on a lovely afternoon in the wonderful Cannizaro Gardens.

Sadly not everyone can win, but here are the TOP entries:

Nina is a fun loving child and loves to be around friends, she enjoys her time at school, always eager to participate especially in her most favourite school fun activities such as singing along, music time, painting and crafts.

Mum Tanya told us: “Families South West is a must have to keep in hand,

especially during school half terms. I find it so informative and a good guide to attend fun activities that are going on, and pencil it down to visit, and also for things that I'll need to know from time to time.

I always make sure I have a copy either in my car or on my coffee table to have a look while enjoying my tea.”

Flora Levy

Afia’s son

Emrys Collins

Emi Thompson

Savannah McCarthy, aged 5

Hunter Stirling

Elsie Adrianna Stewart aged 3

Olivia Carson 6 years old

8 Families South West • November/December 2019

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Reader offers The Orb and The Architect a Da Vinci Code for Kids Fourteen-year-old Jamie Shepherd knows all about the Great Fire of London and how it followed on the heels of the plague, but he considers it ancient history. Until he finds an old key on the banks of the Thames and Londoners start falling ill.

From Richmond Park to Greenwich, London provides a rich backdrop to this exciting children’s thriller (suitable for ages 10+) by Putney author, Kirsty Riddiford.

A signed copy to the first 3 lucky readers to answer this question:

Enjoy 25% off your tickets

What year was the Great Fire of London?

Send your answers to Kirsty via her website: www.kirstyriddifordbooks.com quoting FamiliesSW

The Spirit of Christmas Show Olympia - 4-10 November www.spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk

Win a signed copy of the book

Uncover exquisite gifts in unrivalled and exciting new collections from 900 independent boutiques and designer makers, all hand-picked by the Spirit of Christmas Fair gifting experts for their quality and originality.

Take part in expert-led interactive workshops, shop, dine and be inspired, all whilst enjoying an unmissable day out. Open from 10am daily, advance tickets from £20.50, under 12s free, children £13.50.

Enjoy 25% off tickets by using the code FAMILIES when buying tickets at www.spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk. *Special offer of 25% off tickets is based on the on-the-door prices.

Booking fee of £2.50 applies. Advance Box Office closes at 11pm on 3 November 2019.

Picniq is the ‘number one days out ideas and ticket destination for families’, ideal for Londoners looking for ways to keep the children entertained over the festive period. Go to their website to check out their latest Christmas offers and events, with some of best discounts in family entertainment around. It’s the perfect Discounts on opportunity to plan some special family time and get them days out and excited for Christmas.

entertainment As a gift to you, they’ll give you a £5 off every booking with code picniq5. See all the offers and buy tickets at: tickets.picniq.co.uk Valid on a spend of £30 or more on tickets. Voucher must be redeemed online at www.tickets.picniq.co.uk by 31st March 2020. Occasionally some attractions or visit dates may be excluded from this offer.

Enjoy a discounted trip to Kidzania at Christmas

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November/December 2019 • Families South West 9

10

WAYS TO GET INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT by roving mum Melissa Reynolds

Too little time to think? Too much going on?

Here is our choice of what to do, where to go, what to see this Christmas. Tick.

1. GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE MUSKETEERS Battersea Arts Centre - 30 Nov–31 Dec Why it’s festive: With original live music, songs and plenty of chances to join in, Goldilocks and The Three Musketeers is a madcap festive adventure that will keep your child spellbound. Teaming up with The Three Musketeers and a host of fairytale favourites, can Goldilocks rescue Wonderland and live happily ever after, before it’s too late? Suitable from 4 to 104. Tickets from £10.

All for fun and fun for all! www.Bac.org.uk

2. RAYMOND BRIGGS’ FATHER CHRISTMAS Lyric Hammersmith Theatre - 20 Nov 29 December Why it’s festive: Sit back and enjoy the magical touches featuring live music, song and puppetry. Your little ones will love this introduction to theatre that reviewers have called “magical,” “a timeless classic,” and “enchanting.” Join Santa as he awakes from a dream of sun, sea and sand, only to find it is the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve! Suitable for children age 6 and under, tickets start at £12. Prices increase with demand, so book early for the best prices at lyric.co.uk.

A Lyric family favourite

3. CHRISTMAS AT KEW Kew Gardens - 20 Nov– 5 Jan Why it’s festive: Nothing says it’s the holiday season like the annual Christmas at Kew lights. Watch your children run under arches of light that shine with Christmas colours. Sip some spiced cider or mulled wine and hot chocolate while you roast some marshmallows.

And if your children are anything like mine, they’ll keep an eye or two out for Santa and his elves along the way. I know I have my tickets! www.kew.org

Christmas at Kew

4. WATCH A FILM AT THE SNOW KINGDOM Wandsworth - Until Nov 25 Why it’s festive: What says cozy family time together like settling down for a movie with snacks and drinks? Sink into a giant beanbag chair, cover yourself with some warm blankets and enjoy mulled wine, street food, craft beer and cocktails! All of this is after your little ones have had some fun discovering the secret entrance, navigate the magical ball pit river and find the password for entry. My personal picks are The Holiday or Bridget Jones’ Diary, but there are many more to choose from. www.backyardcinema.co.uk Snow Kingdom

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5. FIND YOUR PERFECT CHRISTMAS TREE Pines and Needles - Until Christmas Why it’s festive: Picking out your Christmas tree as a family can be a magical experience! Wander through the trees and breathe in the pine and spruce until you find the one that brings it all together. It’s a Christmas memory to treasure. Whether it’s a Nordmann Fir or a Norway Spruce, all are sustainably grown in Scotland.

Don’t forget to let your little ones help pick out the decorations after! What child doesn’t love to throw some tinsel around? I know mine do! www.pinesandneedles.com

6. ENJOY A CAROL CONCERT For Battersea Dogs and Cats Home St. Luke’s Church, Chelsea - 5 and 13 Dec Why it’s festive: Everyone needs some holiday joy, even the four-legged ones.

Help support homeless cats and dogs with some festive carols, mulled wine and mince pies, plus a goodie bag from Pet Pavilion. 18year old award-winning soprano Katie Marshall will perform. No free animals are given with this performance! www.battersea.org.uk

7. SANTA CLAUS AND THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS New Wimbledon Theatre - 12 to 24 Dec Why it’s festive: Nothing says its Christmas time for children like a sighting of Santa Claus! This show will pack it all in with songs, stories, and a meet and greet with Santa and a free gift. Help elves Charlie and Kara prove to a group of kids that Santa is real. As an added bonus, your kids will love the bubbles and snowflakes falling on the audience. My own children can’t wait! www.atgtickets.com

Royal Albert Hall

8. SANTA’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND Chessington Garden Centre - 23 Nov 23 to 24 Dec Why it’s festive: Make some crafts in Santa’s workshop, follow the elves through the wonderland where it all ends with the big man himself! A visit with Santa isn’t complete without a present, so kids can pick their own off the production line. www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk

9. ICE SKATING AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE Hampton Court Palace - 22 Nov to 5 Jan Why it’s festive: While Henry VIII probably didn’t skate around his sixteenth century palace, you and your family can hop into skates and give it a whirl on over 1,000 square metres of ice! As Canadians, we should be born skating, but I will be flat on my bum. I know my oldest and my husband can whip around the ice while I will take advantage of the sessions for beginners for my younger children as well as the food and drink pop ups.

Don’t forget to stay late and enjoy a turn under the stars. www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk

Chessington Garden Centre Winter Wonderland

10. WINTER WONDERLAND Hyde Park - 21 Nov to 5 Jan Why it’s festive: Winter Wonderland brings it all together, with everything in one place. From fairground rides and ice skating to Christmas markets and family shows, there is something to appeal to everyone. Having been previous years, this has proven to be a hit with our entire family, even the pickiest ones. Check out Paddington on Ice, Zippos Christmas Circus or create your own ice sculpture, among much more. Santa’s Grotto provides a visit with Santa, while moms must not forget to miss the Christmas markets! Entry is free but many activities require tickets. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com familiesonline.co.uk

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November/December 2019 • Families South West 11

Southfields call 020 8870 8300 email southfields@numberworks.com

Battersea call 020 7223 1882 email battersea@numberworks.com www.numberworksnwords.com/uk

12 Families South West • November/December 2019

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14 Families South West • November/December 2019

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Dare to dream!

By Debora Luzi “I have sacrificed my life to make sure that my children pursue their dreams” I never agreed with this statement. I strongly believe that the best way to teach our children to follow their dreams is for us mothers to show them how it is done.

We teach our children with our actions and not our words.

I grew up seeing my mother very unhappy for not following her dreams. I was myself a very miserable mother of three young children for a long time, working in corporate and sacrificing my time and my relationship with my children for a job I never liked. Until one day when one of my twins had a nearly fatal accident at his nursery. I remember running to the hospital like a crazy woman, crying and begging my son to live.

I realised I wanted to be the mum teaching them to follow their passion and pick them up at the school gate every day. Soon after I left my corporate job and started my own healing and coaching practice helping women to overcome trauma and find the courage to turn their life around.

Photo: Beata Nykiel.

I felt the need to create a safe and supportive group where women could come together, get inspired and motivated to dare more and follow their burning call in life. And so, the ‘Women who dare to desire’ movement was born.

The idea behind the ‘Women Who dare to desire conference’ is to offer a centre stage for the everyday woman who is ready to motivate and inspire other women on their desire journey. Many of the speakers will be mothers who will share how they have endured hardship and challenges to create a life they love while looking after their children.

The conference will take place in London on Friday 31st January 2020.

To book your ticket follow the link below: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/womenwho-dare-to-desire-conference-tickets64738980032?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Or get your ticket in Eventbrite. Search for ‘Women who dare to desire conference’.

Remarkable Moat School The Moat School, based in Bishop’s Park, Fulham, has celebrated its 21st birthday this term. This independent school specialises in providing a mainstream education for pupils with Specific Learning Difficulties, such as Dyslexia or Dyspraxia, with embedded specialist support. It also provides a supportive and academically challenging environment for pupils who have had difficulties finding success in a traditional educational "The Moat School setting.

is mainstream in structure, specialist in nature”.

Koen Claeys, Headmaster

Full in-house suport The Moat School’s SpLD-trained teaching staff ensure pupils can excel in their academic education, whilst receiving the extra help they need to access the curriculum with the support of a fully integrated, in-house therapeutic team and specialist Learning Support Assistants.

Learning profiles, such as Dyslexia, are catered for, but are not the only focus. Underlying learning needs are addressed through tailored speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, counselling and pastoral support,

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allowing all pupils to maximise their potential as confident and creative independent learners, aiming for success in their future endeavours.

NEW: sixth Form from 2020!

Now, following 21 years of success at Secondary level, The Moat School is opening a sixth form in September 2020, to extend this

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ethos and practice into KS5, continuing the school’s high level of academic, pastoral and therapeutic support in a sixth form college setting.

The Moat School is now taking applications for starters aged 16+. www.moatschool.org.uk

November/December 2019 • Families South West 15

‘Those who are searching for somewhere to nurture and inspire happy, confident children – look no further.’

www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk Parsons Green Prep 1 Fulham Park Road London SW6 4LJ T: 020 7610 8085 E: admissions@parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

Do you love Families?

Could you help us spread the love to new potential readers?

We are constantly looking to reach new mums and who else can do this better than another mum?

We are looking for mums to hand out our free local magazine to friends, or at places you go to— like playgroups, your school, classes, meet ups etc.

Could you help? Every issue we’ll enter all participants in a draw to win a children’s book.

To participate simply text DISTRIBUTE to 07949 889901.

We’ll get back to you.

NB: We would deliver a small bunch of magazines to your home for you to hand out to those who’d like a copy. We deliver a minimum of 20 copies, but you can take any higher number than that. Please specify how many you’d want. You can increase or decrease quantities or stop at any time.

South West 16 Families South West • November/December 2019

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November/December 2019 • Families South West 17

For children aged 18months — 5years Monday — Friday Mornings Afternoon Sessions available

www.sparkiesnurseryschool.com Email: grace@sparkiesnurseryschool.com or call 07939~268~861 to arrange a visit 194 Ramsden Road | Balham | SW12 8RQ

345 Nursery School provides an outstanding start to a child's educational journey. We ensure that our pupils have gained a sense of independence, self-confidence and a desire to learn.

Our independent nursery is situated close to Wandsworth Common and has a very large outdoor space. The curriculum includes Sport, Spanish, Music, Ballet and Tennis.

Contact Jill Pearce info@345nurseryschool.com www.345nurseryschool.com 345 Nursery School, Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity Road London SW18 3SA Tel: 020 3633 4185

18 Families South West • November/December 2019

Our skilled staff prepare children aged 2-5 years for their next school and start them on a journey of life-long learning.

Incorpora ng art, cooking, science, music, sport, languages, drama, yoga and all aspects of the Early Years Curriculum.

Please arrange a visit to see the learning and excitement in ac on.

www.oaktreenurseryschool.co.uk Ramsden Hall, 21 Ramsden Road, Balham, SW12 8QX Tel: 020 8166 5932

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Sponsored Feature

Christmas is coming to the Putney Exchange written by Anne Partridge - Centre Manager

“Tis’ the season to be jolly” as the popular carol goes. Yet so often, so much of the lead up to Christmas feels less jolly and more frantic than the rest of the year put together!

With that in mind, the team here at Putney Exchange have compiled a list of the things that we are doing in the shopping centre this Christmas that will not only help you get prepared and save you time but also, we hope, get you into the festive spirit with some of our seasonal entertainment to enjoy when you visit the centre.

Stuck with what to wear to your Christmas party this year? From gorgeous dresses at Phase Eight to sharp suits and sparkly numbers at H&M through to outfits and accessories at Oliver Bonas and Gap, you’ll find something perfect for the whole family.

From beautiful L’Occitane bath products and perfumes in mini gift sets to suit every budget, to original gifts in independent shops such as; Farrago, Oliver Bonas and Huttons you will find something for that special person, whatever their taste.

Other great gift ideas include the latest books from Waterstones or how about a gym membership at our new Energie Fitness gym?

Santa’s Naughty or Nice list Looking for great children’s gifts? Kids on the First floor has almost every brand and toy that your child could want from the popular, to the unusual. We also have Smiggle and Flying Tiger Copenhagen selling Ben & Lola and JoJo Maman Bébé are great for festive party clothes and gifts for little

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ones. Waterstones and The Works always have great gift ideas from books to crafts and more.

Deck the halls with sparkly things!

The best part of Christmas (besides the great food, drink and social gatherings of course!) is decorating the house!

Whether you go for classy and minimalist, to as bright and colourful as you can get, you’ll find all you need for decorating and celebrating at shops such as wilko, The Works, Card Factory, Flying Tiger Copenhagen, Waitrose and many more. Don’t forget beautiful Christmas bouquets or plants from The Flowersmith to complete

We have late night hours!

Throughout the year, we are open every Thursday until 7pm but from the 19th December we will later opening hours. Check our website for details.

Top Tip: The centre is often its most peaceful and quiet in the evening, so if you want to shop without the bustle, evening is the perfect time for you!

Click & Collect!

Remember that most of our shops have Click & Collect, including Waitrose that will also deliver most John Lewis items to their store for you – what a bonus! We also have Amazon lockers on the 2nd floor for all those online purchases you make.

If you are ordering a turkey and food for Christmas and New Year from

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Waitrose, check their website for last orders and pick up dates/times or chat to the team in store who will be happy to help you.

Christmas Entertainment In the centre, our Christmas light installation starts the 18th November and is lit on 20th November. The Putney Town Centre Christmas Light Switch on is Friday 29th November from 3-8pm in the Church Town Square. A great event for the whole family.

In early December, Blåbär café on Lacy Road will host its annual St Lucia festival. Beautiful to watch and tickets sell fast. Check website for details.

On December 18th, Waitrose will be hosting an evening of food and wine tasting for their customers.

If you would like more information about our Christmas activities, get in touch @putneyexchange on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

Or, sign up to our newsletter on www.putneyexchange.co.uk Putney Exchange Shopping Centre, on the Putney High Street, has been part of the community for over 30 years. It has over 40 retailers ranging from well known high street brands through to small independent shop owners and has a strong ethos of supporting the community and businesses that help the town centre and high street to thrive.

November/December 2019 • Families South West 19

The Best family Christmas Shows Santa Claus and the night before Christmas

The Sleeping Beauty Royal Opera House www.roh.org.uk 7 November -16 January Journey with The Royal Ballet to an enchanted world of princesses, fairy godmothers and magical spells in this landmark production of Petipa's classic ballet, to Tchaikovsky's glorious music. Tickets from £8

By the New Wimbledon Theatre At Wimbledon Library 0844 871 7646 atgtickets.com/Wimbledon 12-24 December It’s Christmas Eve and most children are hanging With songs, stockings but a few are stories, a not—they don’t believe in meeting with The Snowman & Peter and the Santa! With Christmas Santa and a Wolf morning approaching, free gift!

Cadogan Hall cadoganhall.com elves Charlie and Kara must 21 December help Santa prove he’s real! Can A magical Christmas treat for all the they make the children believe? An family. Come and hear of unforgettable interactive Prokofiev’s tale of experience which includes This one is bravery narrated by bubbles and snowflakes which on screen! special guest Diggory fall over the audience —a mustSeacome, and Raymond see festive treat. As an added Brigg’s timeless classic The Christmas treat, all of the good boys Snowman shown on the big screen and girls in the audience will meet with live accompaniment provided Santa after the show and receive a by the Mozart Symphony Orchestra. special present of their own.

At 1.30pm and 4.30pm. £15 to £32

Nativity! The Musical Eventim Apollo 45 Queen Caroline St, W6 9QH www. nativitythemusical.com 11 Dec -27 Dec Your favourite festive film is now a major new musical adapted for the stage Win a family

by Debbie Isitt, the ticket: see the creator of the muchcompetition loved films. page 9 Following a smash-hit 2018 run in London, Nativity! The Musical embarks on a UK tour this festive season, before returning to London for Christmas.

Tickets from £32

A Christmas Carol Old Vic Theatre www.oldvictheatre.com 23 November-18 January The Old Vic's A Christmas Carol fills the auditorium to the brim with mince pies, music and merriment. A unique staging immerses the audience in this uplifting story.

Recommended for ages 8+, tickets from £12

Scrunch Unicorn Theatre www.unicorntheatre.com 27 November-22 December

It's baby's first Christmas. Share in your baby's excitement at the building anticipation of Christmas Day and all things present-related— including the very best bit: crumpling, rumpling and scrunching that wrapping paper! Ages 6-18 months, tickets from £12 for one baby + adult.

Peter Pan Under the Bridge, under the East stand of Chelsea Football Club’s Go local: Stamford Bridge This is in stadium, Fulham Fulham!

Buy tickets from underthebridge.co.uk 7&8 December A magical Christmas show to remember! From the streets of Bloomsbury in London to the Lagoons and forests of neverland , and the decks of Captain Hooks Jolly Roger..the adventures of Peter Pan is a colourful , fast moving musical adventure. 11am, 1pm both days plus a 3.30pm performance on the Sunday.

The Little Prince Omnibus Theatre omnibus-clapham.org 4-30 December An award winning local theatre producing one of the best-selling and most translated novellas ever published. Don’t miss this!

Following their success in crafting beautiful Winter shows for all ages (Offie-winner 2018 for Zeraffa Giraffa) comes this brilliant blend of enchanting storytelling, shadow puppetry, projections and live music directed by Artistic Director Marie McCarthy. 10.30am & 1.30pm weekdays and 11am & 2pm weekends. Ages 4 – 104 yrs, £8 children, £10 adults.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas New Wimbledon Theatre

The Little Prince at Omnibus Theatre, Clapham

20 Families South West • November/December 2019

ATGtickets.com/Wimbledon 0844 8717646 See NWT’s other shows page 11 and 45 1-3 November Join in the Christmas spirit which the show critics have called 'A genius of a show! A total delight for both kids and adults'. Featuring the hit songs You’re A Mean One, Mr Grinch and Welcome Christmas, this is a heart-warming and hilarious musical. 4+ from £13

The Nutcracker London Coliseum londoncoliseum.org 11 Dec-5 Jan One Christmas Eve, in a snowcovered Edwardian London, young Clara receives an enchanted Nutcracker doll as a present. He opens the door to a magical world, and soon they find themselves battling with the dastardly Mouse King. Then the pair take to the chillbitten skies as they ride a hot air balloon to the Land of Snow.

Ages 5+.

The Snowman The Peacock Theatre www.peacocktheatre.com 21 Nov-5 Jan London’s favourite Christmas Show!

The Snowman returns, as a magical mix of exquisite dancing and live music lift the boy and his friend from page to stage. The enchanting show tells the story of a young boy’s adventures when his snowman comes miraculously to life on Christmas Eve. All ages.

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loves. Sat 7 & Sun 8 Dec, 11am & 1.30pm. Adult £18, Child £15.

Booking essential.

Cinderella, The Rockin’ Panto!

Artsdepot, 5 Nether Street, N12 www.artsdepot.co.uk 30 Nov-5 Jan Get ready for a pantomime party for all generations, as the multitalented cast of actor-musicians present your favourite story packed with your favourite songs. Rock, pop and soul classics include IT'S RAINING MEN, IN THE MIDNIGHT HOUR, I GOTTA FEELING, TRY A LITTLE TENDERNESS and many more - WE'RE GONNA MAKE YOU WANNA SHOUT! Ages 5+.

From £18.

Dick Whittington

The Snowman flying at the Cadogan Hall

Fulham Palace www.fulhampalace.org 8 December Follow Dick Whittington's adventures from rags to riches in this family friendly pantomime.

A young woman is dressed in a black furry cat suit with white furry paws performing. She is singing with a excitable expression on her face. Performances at 11am and 1pm. £12.

Cinderella Jack and the Beanstalk

Pantomimes Cinderella New Wimbledon Theatre ATGtickets.com/Wimbledon 0844 8717646 7 Dec-5 Jan Packed with all of the traditional pantomime ingredients audiences expect, Cinderella features laughout-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses. Starring Samantha Womack (EastEnders) as The Wicked Stepmother, Lesley Garrett as The Fairy Godmother, Melody Thornton (Pussycat Dolls) as Cinderella and returning to Wimbledon Pete Firman as Buttons. From £13

Wicked Queen, Jon Clegg (of BGT fame) as Muddles and Jason Sutton as the dame. Plenty of laughs and evil plot twists, exuberant song and dance to delight audiences of all ages.

Morden hall Park www.nationaltrust.org.uk Morden Hall Park is an oasis of green within our urban south London. Make it a day out with a wetland walk or a stroll along the riverside path. Join Jack and dotty mum Dame Trott as they scale the Beanstalk, outwit the Giant and are reunited with Jill, the girl Jack

Lyric Hammersmith Lyric Square, W6 0QL 16 Nov 2019 - 05 Jan 2020 Children 6 and up will enjoy this retelling of Cinderella with the usual fare: wicked stepmums, ugly stepsisters, pumpkins, mice and a bit of magic. This marks the Lyric's 11th panto year, and Timmika Ramsay makes her Lyric and panto debut as the title character.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Richmond Theatre 1 Little Green, Richmond, TW9 1QH 7 December 2019 - 5 January 2020 Discover who's the fairest in the land starring Jo Brand as the familiesonline.co.uk

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November/December 2019 • Families South West 21

Where is Fath

We have been reliably informed that Father Christmas will be sitting in various grottos in south west London and elsewhere—but be warned: he is a popular guy! We recommend you to book ahead as some places have already sold out.

The cheapest place to see Father Christmas will be in a school fair or a local Christmas Fayre (see some dates in our diary date section), there is a wild choice of grottos and experiences out there to suit every taste and budget.

Trinity Church Craft and Gift Fair Mansel Road SW19 4AA www.trinitywimbledon.org 7 December Combine a bit of Christmas shopping with a visit to Father Christmas in his grotto. 11am-5pm.

Battersea Park Children’s Zoo www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk Weekends Nov 30 – Dec 24 Spend a wonderful time out in our beloved Battersea Park zoo. Enjoy the play structures while you wait for Santa to appear. Once you’ve given Santa your list, take a peek at the animals. Visit includes sticker, a Christmas treat and a small gift.

Fulham Palace www.fulhampalace.org (1st Dec sold out) 6 December In winter Fulham Palace oozes Christmas charm, with real fires, festive decoration and mince pies in the café. The whole family can enjoy the special meeting with Father Christmas in the beautiful Tudor great hall. 9am-4.30pm. £11 per child.

Morden Hall Park www.nationaltrust.org.uk 0344 249 1895

22 Families South West • November/December 2019

23, 24 & 30 November and weekends in December One of our favourite places to visit Father Christmas and his elves, an enchanted grotto to receive a gift chosen just for you. Children can draw and send their wish lists to Father Christmas via the special postcard express. Go for a wonderful walk in the park, get some fresh air. You could combine with a visit to Deen City farm, as it is very close. Booking essential.

Under 5s are in for a treat on Thu 5, 12 & Fri 6, 13 Dec, 10.30am-12pm as Father Christmas opens up his magical grotto to visitors and gives out specially chosen gifts. £12 per child.

London Transport Museum www.ltmuseum.co.uk 30 November-5 January Search for Santa and get a free Christmas badge when you find him in his Secret Cabin or in the museum galleries. Create bunting and decorations using the iconic Tube roudel, bus or jumper shapes with a variety of sparkly materials; join in lively singing and storytelling sessions using a selection of props and instruments.

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er Christmas? helpers on the Temperate House steps entertaining youngsters, and a mini food village complete with fairground rides will be a perfect stop-off point for little ones. Sweet smells of mulled wine, mince pies and other festive treats will greet visitors from stalls along the trail, and the beautiful new Pavilion Bar and Grill will be open for dining.

Christmas at Kew family ticket £52.

Duke of York dukeofyorksquare.com An hour-long winter wonderland experience. For the under-twos, the grotto will also offer a ‘My First Grotto’ session, and exclusive preschool sessions for those four and under. £27.50 book online.

Santa to your door www.adamantsparties.co.uk Christmas in Leicester Square www.christmasinleicestersquare.com There will be a Santa's grotto at the traditional Christmas market selling hand-crafted goods, delicious food and drinks. A beautiful way to spend quality time with your children.

The Royal Albert Hall www.royalalberthall.com 5-22 December In this theatrical walk-around event, children encounter a range of magical North Pole characters on their way to meet Father Christmas himself. Discover the stories and characters of Christmas' past Experience through engaging puppetry lasts up to and live music; gain some 1 hour secret elf knowledge; make and take home your very own stuffed toy. Ages 3+, tickets £39.24 per child; accompanying adults free.

Kew Gardens www.kew.org Visitors can find Santa and his

Arrange a magical visit from Santa on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or any other time.

He will deliver your presents and chat to your children about their favourite things.

He may even sing a few festive songs before he says goodbye having nibbled a mince pie, or two.

Call the Santa hotline 020 8959 1045/07969 121094 or email info@adamantsparties.co.uk

ZSL London Zoo www.zsl.org 30 November –24 December Marrying London’s furriest residents and its most festive, ZSL London Zoo are putting on a family event with a difference this year. Enjoy film

screenings, themed talks and visits to Santa’s Grotto. What a way to spend Christmas Eve for animal fans big and small.

Hamleys Where better to meet Father Christmas than at a world-famous toy store? The Santa's Grotto Workshop at Hamleys is an extra special experience where children will take part in seasonal activities at the Hamleys North Pole £39.99.

Harrods X Swarovski Christmas Grotto www.harrods.com This is fully booked.

Museum of London Christmas usually gets a Victorian makeover at Museum of London and Museum of London Docklands.

Part of the museum is transformed into a Victorian walk, with Santa waiting at the end. We're still waiting to hear whether Santa will be taking up residence this Christmas.

Ham House 7-8 and 14-23 December Enjoy Ham House decorated throughout with warm candlelight and the scent of spices in the air.

Get cozy with seasonal treats in the café after an enjoyable walk through the formal gardens. Then create special memories having your own quiet moment with Father Christmas, nice.

Greenwich Market www.greenwichmarket.london December weekends and 19-23 December We love this quirky market. Visit Father Christmas in his grotto, where he will be sharing the goodwill in support of Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice. The Grotto will also open for the Greenwich Christmas Lights on the night on 20 November from 3-6pm.

Tickets £5.

Something a bit different The Santa Express High Street, Bromley BR1 1DN, www.theglades.co.uk 7-24 December Journey through a wonderful adventure facilitated by a host of engaging and characterful elves who have been dispatched from the North Pole to The Glades especially to ensure that the countdown to Christmas Day runs smoothly. Your adventure of course includes a meeting with the man himself, Santa Claus.

Tickets £8.

Sleigh rides at London Wetland Centre Barnes. To book wwt.org.uk/London Experience festive fun with a sleigh ride pulled by adorable huskies before visiting Santa in his cosy grotto. Help the Elves in their special workshop to make Christmas crafts and get your face painted as a Christmas creature.

Santa’s grotto needs to be prebooked. Spaces are limited so book early to avoid disappointment. No need to book other activities which are included in centre admission.

Christmas at Bocketts Farm www.bockettsfarm.co.uk 22nd November to 24th December Meet Father Christmas on a real farm, in his traditional workshop.

Hop aboard the Santa express and travel in style to the magical workshop, where you’ll gather as a group for some festive elf fun.

Meet Father Christmas, receive a special golden coin to spend in his very own toy shop. Enjoy a full programme of fun farm activities including Step into our Giant Snowglobe and experience a ‘White Christmas’ Meet gorgeous new born baby lambs, expected early December. Pre booking is essential.

LETTER FROM SANTA...

All children love to receive a letter addressed to them in the post, but what could be more special than a letter from Father Christmas? Here are two ways of making this happen.

Royal Mail Letter to Santa For children to receive a FREE letter from Santa via the Royal Mail children must post their letter to Santa by Friday 6 December.

Envelopes must have either a first or second class stamp and be

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addressed to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. The letter must include your child’s full name and address. www.royalmail.com/christmas/lette rs-to-santa

NSPCC Santa Letter Children can also receive a personalised reply from Santa via his elves at the NSPCC in exchange for a minimum £5 donation to the charity. The letter is ordered online and must be placed by 9 December. www.nspcc.org.uk/what-you-cando/make-a-donation/letter-fromsanta/

November/December 2019 • Families South West 23

Classic party games a Despite the fact that we live in a digital age, the simple truth is that children crave the classics.

Here are a few party games that are still enormously popular.

The chocolate game The children sit in a circle and take turns to throw a dice. If they get a six they put on a hat, scarf and gloves then attempt to eat a

Great for small parties

Perfect for Baby Showers, Gender Reveal and Bridal Showers

wrapped bar of chocolate with a knife and fork. Meanwhile the other children keep on throwing the dice.

When the next person throws a six, they get their turn.

PARTIES! Wonderfully fun musical parties for your under-5’s! Guitar-accompanied songs with actions, joining in, jumping and dancing, instruments, puppet and parachute!

The perfect party for little ones.

Call 020 8677 6871 info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

26 Families South West • November/December 2019

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PARTIES Prince and princess party A prince and princess party is all about make-believe and dressing up. Think gold and silver, jewels and gems – the more bling, the better!

Invitations Create royal proclamations to invite your guests using coloured paper, ribbon and some candle wax. Either hand write or print out on a computer.

Decorations Welcome your guests by rolling out a length of red carpet – or any fabric that looks grand.

A drawbridge made from cardboard or a balloon archway also adds finesse.

Choose a colour theme for your balloons and streamers: a royal theme with red, white and blue, or glitz and glamour with white and gold.

Make the table the focus. A canopy made from inexpensive voile, or a net curtain hung from the ceiling, will look eye-catching. Wrap fairy lights around the table or scatter it with glittery confetti.

Activities Make crowns and tiaras decorate paper crowns with sequins and glitter.

coloured card, elastic and cheap net or voile, to transform into cone-shaped, medieval prince/princess hats.

Royal party games - Play Pin the Tail on the Dragon or the Jewel on the Tiara, Musical Thrones, or The Queen Says (instead of Simon Says).

Royal Treasure Hunt - Hide gold chocolate coins around the house or garden. Someone has stolen the king's gold and the children must find it!

Make medieval prince/princess hats - provide some pastel-

Science Party

re the best Sleeping lions Children lie down on the floor as still and as quietly as possible pretending to be ‘sleeping lions’. A judge roams the room and any child that moves is ‘out’ and the winner is the last child ‘asleep’.

Alternatively if you are feeling brave then why not have a Science party?

Science parties are a great way for introducing science concepts to young children. There are companies which can provide spectacular science parties at your home but here are some accompaniments you may need.

Decorations Kim’s game Lay a tray with a mix of objects from toy figures to random items like sticky tape or a spoon. Cover the tray with a tea towel. Allow the children a minute to look at the tray before covering it back up when they write down everything they can remember from the tray.

The one who remembers the most items is the winner.

Spell out the birthday child’s name using the periodic table.

Hang up educational science posters such as the periodic table or similar which can be downloaded for free. If you have one, display a whiteboard for working out problems such as ingredients for a potion or volcano.

Use coloured balloons for the

different planets – add cardboard for Saturn’s rings.

Costumes Oversized white shirts can become a lab coat. Print out name tags with monikers added such as ‘Professor Julia’.

Activities Erupting volcanoes - children make a small volcano from play dough. You will need a small container such as jar or film canisters (available cheaply on Amazon) to insert into the centre of the volcano. Into the container, put one teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda, a squirt of dish washing up liquid and a few drops of red food colouring. Then add one tea spoon of vinegar and kapow!

Mini Lava Lamps - fill jars or bottles about a ¼ full with water.

Add food colouring and mix. Almost fill jars with oil. When the oil and water have separated, drop in a fizzing tablet such as Alka Seltzer or Vitamin C. Watch as the tablet floats down slowly to the water, where it will dissolve and create bubbles of gas that carry some of the coloured water to the top. Add a few tablets at a time!

Magic potion station Gather safe ingredients such as washing up liquid, vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, glitter, food colouring, spoons and mixing bowls/glass jars and set them up so children can mix their own potions.

Doughnut challenge Hang ring doughnuts on strings.

Children must attempt to eat as much of the doughnut as they can without it falling off the string – the challenge is that no hands are allowed!

Pass the parcel You can’t have a party without pass the parcel! Almost despite age, children still love to sit in a circle, pass that parcel around and rip off the paper when it’s their turn! A small chocolate treat for everyone is enough to get them excited plus the anticipation of a bigger “present” for the winner. Party etiquette demands that the final present is won by a guest, so try to make sure the winner isn’t your child! familiesonline.co.uk

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November/December 2019 • Families South West 27

28 Families South West • November/December 2019

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PARTIES Memorable interactive fun filled children’s entertainment!

With more than 20 years experience, the Action Station offers unique entertainment solutions, tailored to the age of the children, your preferred theme and budget.

Specialising in Imaginative Interactive Storytelling, a team of professional actors and actresses share their passion with their audience, taking them along their unique adventures.

Choose from mermaids, witches, fairies or princesses, knights, pirates, cowboys, and many more! Or their Spy, Cheerleader or Drama parties for older children, create a unique, fun and creative experience for all.

From a large selection of vetted performances, they make sure their entertainers have what it takes to impress the young and the restless looking for original entertainment.

Juggling acts, stilt walkers, fire eaters, puppet shows, mad cap magicians and clowns, face painters …. and much more!

They seek out the best and most unique entertainment option for your party.

Create unique parties with the Action Station – 0870 770 2705 www.theactionstation.co.uk

Adam Ants offers amazing parties at affordable prices.

Adam Ants and his talented team make sure their parties are non stop fun. With something for all ages: magic, balloon modelling, puppets, music, dancing, games, face painting.

You can hire tables and chairs/bouncy castles/soft play and ball ponds. Why not invite your favourite character to the party from Mickey Mouse to Pepper Pig and many more?

020 8959 1045 / 07969 121094 info@adamantsparties.co.uk www.adamantsparties.co.uk

Battersea Park Children’s Zoo is the perfect place for children to celebrate their birthday with their friends and the animals too.

This family friendly zoo hosts fantastic children’s parties which include a mini tour, where children find out lots of funny and foul facts about lemurs, snakes, monkeys, mice and meerkats, get to help a zookeeper to prepare an animal’s dinner, meet and stroke a rabbit, create their very own animal badge and the birthday child paints a brick on ‘The Birthday Wall of Fame’!

Party food and goodie bags are included and guests can stay on and enjoy the zoo. Parties start from age 4 yrs upwards and last for two hours.

Call, email or see the website for more details.

020 7924 5826 or info@batterseaparkzoo.co.uk www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

Finally! Relief for allergy sufferers Parents of allergy-impacted children know that parties can be extra tricky for little ones. With all sorts of allergens that can make it into goodie bags, cakes and treats, children can end up feeling excluded when they can’t join in. Marty’s, the allergy-friendly children’s snack brand, is launching their much-loved popped chickpea crisps in a brand new party perfect multipack format—great for stocking up on for birthdays or as a lunchbox hero.

Marty’s Popped Chickpea Crisps are free from egg, peanuts and gluten, and are available in three flavour-packed varieties: Cheese & Onion, Barbecue and Ready Salted.

Move with Peppa Parties are fun, active and entertaining for little piggies aged 2-5 years old and have been inspired by Peppa Pig's 'My Birthday' episode.

Marty’s Universe is an out of this world brand on a mission to make the world an allergy-friendly one. Cocreated with families who live with food allergies, Marty’s launched in July and have become a fast favourite for parents and children.

Their party packages are designed to take the stress out of planning your little one's special day. Their specially trained party hosts will keep children entertained for the full duration of the party by leading the children through a series of Peppa-themed activities, including story telling, songs and rhymes, specially created dances and party games and exclusive Peppa themed colouring activities. charlie@movewithpeppa.com www.movewithpeppa.com

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Parties in the zoo!

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Marty’s Party Packs are perfect for groups and goodie bags.

Available on Amazon UK, each pack contains x 18 bags of Marty’s Popped Chickpea Crisps. www.martysuniverse.com

November/December 2019 • Families South West 29

ivity Camps Children’s Multi Sport & Act

MP CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY CA from w/c Monday 16th De

• • • •

cember

Guaranteed Fun Through Games, Sports & Arts & Crafts raftss All Inclusive & Non Competitive t Skills Skill Designed to Improve Co-ordination, Awareness, Motor First Aid and DBS Checked Coaches

Clapham (ages 3-7 yrs) St Luke's Community Centre, Ramsden Rd, SW12 8RQ

Clapham Junction (ages 3-10 yrs) Belleville Primary School, Belleville Road, SW11 6PR Wimbledon (ages 3-10 yrs)

VENUES

The Priory CofE Primary School, Queens Road, SW19 8LX

Putney (ages 3-10 yrs) St Josephs RC Primary School, 90 Oakhill Road, SW15 2QD

Contact John on 07749 343116 or 0845 222 1313.

Email us: campbookings@young-stars.co.uk

www.young-stars.co.uk

youngstarsltd

30 Families South West • November/December 2019

@ Youngstarsports

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Lots of fun at Eddie Catz!

Christmas Holiday Activities Developing skills Kids en cuisine www.kidsencuisine.com or info@kidsencuisine.com 020 3015 2966 Healthy cooking classes 7 December 10am: Planet Organic Westbourne Grove. 8 December 11am: Whole Food Market Fulham, 15 December 11am: As Nature Intended Marble Arch. 21 December 10am: Planet Organic Wandsworth. 22 December 11am: As Nature Intended Marble Arch.

Private Christmas cooking parties Your mini master chefs will cook a healthy meal while they have fun in the comfort of your own home with their friends or family.

Yellowbird Education Parsons Green Prep School, 1 Fulham Park Rd, Fulham SW6 4LJ Yellowbirdeducation.com 020 7731 0695 16-20 December Christmas Workshops Hugely popular educational workshops carefully designed to develop skills in Creative Writing, Handwriting, Comprehension & Composition, English Exam Prep, Interview Skills & Reasoning.

Drama and music

Naomi Touch Typing Sinclair House School, 59 Fulham High Street, SW6 3JJ www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk 16-20 December Touch typing courses. Book via the wesite.

Role Models Finton House School, SW17 7HL

info@rolemodels.me 020 3637 7107 www.rolemodels.me 16th-20th December Christmas courses Creative Problem Solving Course (age 8-11) and Brilliant Me and My Mind (age-7). £395. £50 sibling discounts, multi-buy and mutual referral discounts available. Early dropoff available from 8:30am.

10am-3pm.

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Arts, craft and Christmas Fun Battersea Park Zoo www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk 30-24 November Christmas Stocking Search After (or before) having paid a visit to Santa, have fun counting how many animals have put out a stocking for Santa. Hand your guess in to the shop for a chance to win a Family Day Ticket to the zoo.

Centre Court

Centre Court Shopping Centre

Little House of Science Holiday Inn, The Academy, SW7 4DN ww.littlehouseofscience.com 16-20 December 2019 Christmas Science Camp Christmas Science Lab for young physicists. Daily Monday-Friday, 9.30-3.30 (8.45am early drop-off), 4-7 and 8-12 years (age adjusted & separated groups).

17 and 18 December Christmas Holiday Workshop Come and enjoy fabulous classes in dance, acting and singing and put on a performance for friends and family. 9.30-12.30pm for 4-6 year olds and 10am-4pm for 7-15 year olds. Childcare vouchers accepted. Please see website for venue and prices.

Allsorts drama More House School SW1 Notting Hill Prep School W11 020 8969 3249 www.allsortsdrama.com Drama Workshops Popular and fun drama workshops for ages 4-6 and 7- 11, dates vary depending on venue. The perfect way to keep your child entertained and stimulated in a creative and structured way.

Funky Monkey St Philip/James Church, Poplar Walk, SE24 0BS Booking essential, places limited. £35/£30 subsequent siblings www.funkymonkey.info 21 December Nip off to your local shops to indulge in a little 'you' time before Christmas. Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes fun filled 'Jingle Bells' music workshops are a perfect Christmas themed taster day for 4-8 yr old beginner musicians. Children are introduced to the electronic keyboard, how it works, and how to start reading and writing music too. Interspersed with art activities and games all based around music, there is so much fun to be had, they may not even want to come home for Christmas! 10am-2pm.

Stagecoach Performing Arts Battersea 07956 288928 www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea

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Wimbledon Discover Christmas Stories nestled in every corner of the centre Visit Santa for Free: Every weekend from 23 November and daily from 19- 23 December. Festivities begin on 23 November with the interactive Christmas experience outside Lakeland where customers can unfold the story of ‘A Night Before Christmas’ with the help of the talking Christmas Bear. Winter Wonderland, The Christmas launch, in partnership with Love Wimbledon, will feature with live acts on a stage outside H&M on the Upper Mall and a firework display from the top of Centre Court at 5.30pm.

Battersea Park Zoo

Eddie Catz www.eddiecatz.com 16 December Funky feet Disco, 4-5pm, 0-5 years, £8.50 per child.

18 December Messy Christmas, 10-11am, 4mths - 4years, £8 per child.

21 December Christmas Party, 10am-12pm, 1-4yrs, £10.50 per child.

Wimbledon 17 December Messy Play, 10-11am, 6mths- 4yrs, £9.50 per child.

19 December Christmas Party, 5-7pm, 1-10yrs, £13.50 per Child.

23 December Lasertag Fun, 5:307:30pm 6-12 years (drop off), £18.50 per Child.

14 December St. Nicholas Day 5.30-7.30pm, 1-12 yrs old, £12.50 per Child – includes meal and entertainment and gift from Saint Nicholas.

Museum of Brands

Stagecoach

November/December 2019 • Families South West 31

Swimway

Morden Hall Park

Style Station

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhall-park

Belleville primary school, Webbs Road www.stylestationworkshops.com 0750 8129 941 21st December A one off Christmas workshop where you will be making Christmas tree decorations, a wreath or a Christmas tree to celebrate the festive season. £30 with 20% sibling discount.

10.30am-1pm. 6-13 years.

Free your creative spirit with a craft workshop, join the pantomime fun, travel back in time with a festive vintage tram-style carriage pulled

by Shire horses ride, bring the little ones to visit Father Christmas. Plus storytime with Mother Christmas, a festive fun storytelling session for under 5s.

Vincent and Frida

Paint Pots Festive Fun Paint Pots, St Mary The Boltons, The Boltons, London, SW10 9TB Book online at www.paintpotshouse.com 16-20 December Arts, crafts, music, games and other seasonal activities. Children craft their own festive gifts, have fun and make friends. Led by their fully qualified Nursery School and Creative Classes teachers. 3-6 yrs.

All sessions are un-accompanied.

9.30am-12.30pm, £45 9.30am-3.30pm, £65.

Role Models

Youngstars

The Observatory Gallery, 64 Marchmont, London WC1N 1AB. Book at www.vincentandfrida.com 14 December Special Christmas workshop dedicated to the images of Mary and Child. Children will learn language of the symbolism that makes this iconography instantly recognisable and will create their own version of Madonna and Child.

10 places. 7-12yrs 10.30-11.30 am.

Weekly classes in January.

Active holidays Go Ape

All Star Tennis

Battersea Park www.goape.co.uk Go Ape will be open on the following dates: 19-22 December, 27-29 December and 2-6 January.

They will be running their usual Tree Top Challenge and Tree Top Adventure activities from 9am-2pm each day.

In Wandsworth Common SW18 3RT www.allstartennis.co.uk/holidaycamps/ 020 8871 4706, info@allstartennis.co.uk 16-20 December All Star Tennis award winning camps run in the Christmas Holiday too. Like their Summer Camps they will be extra special as they celebrate their 20th Anniversary.

As always they will be packed with games, drills, tennis technique, match preparation, fun tournaments, trick shots, prizes and team games. Together with a chance to dress up on the last day!

Full week and day bookings available. New players are always welcome 5 to 7yrs: 10-1pm, 8 to 12yrs: 10-3pm.

Youngstars Clapham, Wimbledon and Putney www.young-stars.co.uk 16-20 December in Clapham only.

23-24 December and 2-3 January in Clapham, Wimbledon and Putney Holiday camps Every Youngstars camp is guaranteed to be full of fun, games and excitement whilst introducing aspects of several sports including ... football, basketball, cricket, lacrosse, hockey, t-ball, tennis, rugby and athletics all within a noncompetitive & all inclusive environment. Every game, drill and exercise is designed to improve coordination, awareness, motor skills and above all team work. For ages 3-10. Exact details to be confirmed please look at the website for more information.

Museum of Brands Notting Hill www.museumofbrands.com 1 Nov and 31 Jan Design - Learn – Explore Are you looking for some quality time with your family this Christmas?

Experiment, learn and explore the world of technology, with self-led activities every day. 8+ Drop-in activities. Free with admission.

23 Nov and 25 Jan Inventors of Tomorrow Workshops Join Big Clown, as they lead interactive and playful workshops for the whole family to discover more about technology. Free with admission. Pre booking required.

Ages: 8+.

32 Families South West • November/December 2019

Sport

Swimway Putney, East Sheen, Kew Gardens, Kensington, Balham and Wimbledon www.swimway.co.uk 16-20 December SwimWay is delighted to announce they will be running another series of intensive swimming course during December school holidays for children aged 2yrs–9yrs. The lessons will be provided on a private or a semi-private basis for half an hour each day. You can find full details of the crash course Program on their website.

Alternatively, please email info@swimway.co.uk or call 020 88713972.

To advertise in

Families

Call: 0208 696 9680

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Work and Play Scrapstore Naomi Touch Typing

SEN Eddie Catz www.eddiecatz.com Exclusive session of play for all Special Needs children, their siblings and Parents. Sessions include full access to the soft play area, disco room with music turned down and soft lights. Wheelchair users will have access to area with soft mats, balls and toys. Quiet chill out area where children can have a little quiet time if needed.

Earlsfield 10 December Christmas Special- SEN Evening Softplay Session 4:30-6pm, 1-7 years with Families. Child £7.50 per child Meal Deal.

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Blackshaw Road, Tooting, SW17 workandplayscrapstore.org.uk The Re-use charity the Scrapstore is waiting for you to collect all your craft needs.

Yellowbird

Wimbledon 16 December Christmas Special- SEN Evening Softplay Session 4:30-6pm 1-7 years with Families. Child £9.50 per child Meal Deal.

Gambado Chelsea www.gambado.com SEND & Autism Friendly Sessions Join Gambado Chelsea for an exclusive SEN & Autism friendly sessions. Free entrance to a carer accompanying 1 child, if disability ID is shown.

Natural History Museum www.nhm.ac.uk 15 Dec Dawnosaurs Early morning fun and learning for families with children on the autistic spectrum.

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They give away unwanted stock donated from green minded companies. You can help yourself with ribbons and buttons, tissue and wrapping paper, jewellery and braids, fabrics and coloured acetate, paper and wood, foam and fine wire, bubble wrap, wondrous props, cushion covers, fake fur, velvet fabric and fancy-dress costumes. Stock changes each week as donations flood in.

* Annual membership of Scrapstore is £40 for a Family membership per year which entitles you to visit twice a week throughout the year and collect whatever takes your fancy.

Free* material for your Christmas projects

Those gearing up for school productions will find the large rolls of blackout fabric ideal for stage backdrops while rolls of brightly-coloured glitter paper will add a sparkle to any production.

November/December 2019 • Families South West 33

Exercise classes where

Mom In Balance Bishops Park, SW6 | www.mominbalance.com

Mamawell

Mom In Balance offer carefully crafted outdoor workouts for women in all stages of pregnancy and beyond. With all equipment provided, the class comprised a mixture of circuits, relays and partner work all under the watchful eye of a friendly and informative MIB instructor. This class left me satisfyingly sore and keen to rebook! Buggies/carriers welcome.

Memberships from £70 per month.

Taught by inspirational mumprenueur and ex-dancer Rosie, Mamawell’s Post natal bootcamp is an accessible and invigorating exercise solution for mums. Meeting in a cinematic riverside location this friendly group of local mums are led through mat based stabilisation exercises building up to a series of challenging strengthening circuits with careful attention to their different stages of postpartum recovery. BYO Mat. £7 per session.

WE LIKE

With close attention to alignment and safe practice and some inventive use of a resistance band, the program aims to target the whole body.

Wandsworth Park SW15 | www.mamawell.org

WE LIKE

I loved exercising in the great outdoors and felt in safe hands with Rosie. Babies in buggies welcome.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Charlie Avella

Reviewed by Roving Mum Charlie Avella

Jiva Health - MUTU class

Mum & Baby class at Latino Bambino

Earlsfield and Wimbledon | www.jivahealth.co.uk

Locations in Wandsworth, South Kensington (other locations available) www.latinobambino.co.uk

The MUTU classes I attended with Jiva Health were fantastic—aimed at mums exactly like me, who are looking to tone up their ‘Mum Tums’. After having my second baby, my abdominal muscles had all but fallen apart, so Mutu was a great find. The exercises are really enjoyable, and can be adapted for you by the lovely teacher, Lon, to suit your shape, size and level of fitness. Having a few babies in the class was great and provided a constant source of giggles! Lon would often teach the class with babies climbing all over her so the mums could do the exercises.

WE LIKE

After a few weeks I really noticed a difference in my abdominal and pelvic strength.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Lisa Schlesinger Skene 34 Families South West • November/December 2019

Babies shake their maracas while mummies shake their hips in this fun dance class, where mums learn to salsa dance to Latin beats while babies giggle away in their carriers. It gets you socialising with other parents, burning cals and is ideal for getting you to release your inhibitions. You may never have been much of a dancer before, but amazing things can happen when you're suddenly moving with a six-month-old on your body.

Bailamos!

WE LIKE

Having a baby can be a lonely experience, dancing lifts your mood!

Reviewed by Roving Mum Negin Malik familiesonline.co.uk

Part 2

you can take your baby

LuLu Winfield’s Post Natal Yoga

Fitness Fusion

The Power Yoga Company, SW6 (other locations available) www.luluwinfield.com

Clapham High Street, Clapham | fitnessfusions.co.uk

Local treasure Lulu Winfield has nurtured the women of west London through all stages of motherhood for years. An experienced Doula, Yogi and mother herself, Lulu’s post natal classes focus on the mothers’ needs offering a gentle, nourishing yoga to offset the aches and strains of caring for a newborn. As good as a spa treatment, I left feeling soothed, relaxed and replenished. £15 per class.

WE LIKE

With babies on blankets close-by, this class is a safe and supportive sanctuary. Restless baby? No problem—Lulu is ready to take hold.

While Fitness Fusions offers several yoga and pilates classes, Mum and Baby Reformer allows you to get a good workout in, with your baby cared for in the room. Strengthen your core, lose fat and relax your mind with all of the classic pilates reformer moves. Try some moves with your baby if they need some mum time, or know that your baby is being taken care of by Child Care Assistants just a few feet away.

The gated, soft play area will even keep those beginning to crawl nearby!

WE LIKE

Reviewed by Roving Mum Charlie Avella

Reviewed by Roving Mum Melissa Reynolds

Mummy & Me baby yoga, Triyoga

Boogie Mama

Chelsea (plus other locations)

Locations in Battersea, Tooting and Hammersmith | 07708 154156

Yoga is a spiritual, emotional and physical practice that stretches and strengthens, calms the mind and challenges both mind and body. So it's pretty much exactly what the doctor ordered for mums at all stages of the parenting game. In addition to helping new mums regain core and pelvic floor strength, stretching neck and shoulders, and creating a calming and energising experience, the class brings together a like-minded group of parents and is a safe space to discuss any concerns. Yogic dads also welcome. Shanti.

A dance class for mums and babes who want to bust a move, you can get na na na na na jiggy with your little one in a carrier as you learn a different dance each week. Classes are an hour long, with different pop and R&B tunes, and dads and siblings are welcome. Trial classes for new members are 1/2 price at £7.

WE LIKE

Best for body and soul.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Negin Malik Tooting and Streatham | www.crossfittooting.co.uk Once you have a baby, you realise you basically have superpowers: your body is just so much stronger and more resilient than you ever imagined.

Which is why you may find yourself heading to your local CrossFit box and doing a kettlebell farmer's walk while your little one chills on a play gym with on-site childcare—even if you never set foot in a gym before baby.

Mums who have joined the cult of CrossFit absolutely adore it: they're stronger, fitter and more energised than before, and they make time for the classes even once they're back at work post-mat leave.

You can sign up for a free trial week and see how you like it.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Negin Malik familiesonline.co.uk

Dancing gives you the extra feel good factor and joie de vivre!!

Reviewed by Roving Mum Negin Malik Four Sides London

CrossFit Tooting and CrossFit Streatham

WE LIKE

WE LIKE

179 Northcote Road, SW11 6QF | https://foursideslondon.com Pregnancy brings with it all kinds of pleasant things (baby) and some notso-pleasant ones (erm, pelvic floor issues). If you're feeling any discomfort, pain or weirdness, it's worth being assessed, and, unfortunately, a full postnatal MOT is unlikely to happen at your six-week NHS check. That's where Four Sides come in: they have a dedicated team of women's health physios who can help diagnose and treat your issues. Once you start Pilates (mat and Reformer) and Strength & Conditioning classes, you feel confident you're in good hands because the teachers can tailor exercises to suit your specific needs. There are even targeted classes like DRAM Pilates, for those with diastasis recti.

WE LIKE

Babies in buggies or pre-crawlers can sit in on the ante and postnatal offerings.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Negin Malik FamiliesSWLon

November/December 2019 • Families South West 35

Calling all baby Scientists!

Help us discover how babies & kids learn!

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 via public transport and we refund travel expenses.

020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Please tell advertisers you found them in Families

36 Families South West • November/December 2019

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Dealing with cancer over Christmas Christmas for some families is not full of joy or festive cheer. Many children, and their families, will be spending Christmas in hospital, too ill to be at home.

M

omentum Children’s Charity, a local organisation that supports children with cancer and life-challenging conditions, knows too well the pain that some families will feel this Christmas and have spoken with two families they support to help educate and spread awareness.

Spencer’s story On Christmas Eve, mother-of-three Kerrie Thorpe’s world was turned upside down. She and her husband Jon received the devastating news that their 11-year-old son Spencer had a brain tumour.

“The devastation, shock and reality of the news we received was frankly too much to bear. Our 11-year-old little boy should have been looking forward to opening his Christmas presents and instead we were in a hospital dealing with this traumatic news. Our other two children, who had been beyond excited about Christmas, didn't even wake up with their parents and eldest brother on Christmas Day, as we were in hospital with Spencer.

“We were utterly broken. It’s the only word I can find to describe how we felt. We spent Christmas Day patiently waiting for the phone to ring to call us in for Spencer’s emergency brain surgery.”

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“Momentum Children’s Charity were on the end of the phone for me in the wee hours of the morning when I had collapsed on the bathroom floor, feeling totally helpless wondering how I'm going to manage to get through another day putting a brave face on for my children. For such a small charity they are there unconditionally, and the work they do is invaluable to families who find themselves in this horrific situation.”

Jaxson’s Story Chloe, a single mother to three children, had the worst Christmas of her life in 2018, after her son, Jaxson, was diagnosed with cancer just two weeks before Christmas day.

“I was told that if Jaxson had not been diagnosed that day and they had not taken him to St George's Hospital when they did, he wouldn’t have made it. I was in such shock and I was terrified for him, whilst trying to stay strong for my eight-week old daughter and my other son, Mason. All I wanted was for him to survive.”

Jaxson was diagnosed with Nonhodgkins Lymphoma.

Jaxson also has Dystonic Cerebral

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Palsy which was something else Jaxson had to contend with during treatment. It meant his muscles could not handle the changes from chemotherapy, which left him paralysed for two months.

“We didn’t really have a Christmas, it’s all a bit of a blur. We spent most of the day in hospital, whilst Jaxson received chemotherapy. We were allowed home at 6pm which was great but I had done very little to prepare and I was a complete mess. My children didn’t understand what was going on”.

“The Family Support Worker from Momentum Children’s Charity was fantastic. I was able to ask her questions about anything and everything. She wasn’t only on my side; she was amazing with all my children. She also delivered special toys and Christmas gifts, which made a huge difference. It was wonderful to see a different face around the hospital and she got on so well with Jaxson.

When he was in isolation, she’d sit with him and paint.”

Support a local charity this Christmas Momentum Children’s Charity are asking everyone in the local community to help them support more families like Jaxson’s and Spencer’s this Christmas by organising a Christmas Jumper Day at work and encouraging colleagues to donate to take part.

To confirm your Christmas Jumper Day for Momentum Children’s Charity, and receive their special promotional poster template to advertise your event, email fundraising@moment-um.org or visit their website at www.moment-um.org

November/December 2019 • Families South West 37

Competitions Oi Frog & Friends!

Live on Stage Based on the bestselling books by Kes Gray and Jim Field.

Published by Hachette Children’s Group

WIN a Family Ticket for 4 to see Oi Frog & Friends!

Live on Stage in the West End at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue from 29 November.

FROG is hidden on several pages in this magazine. To win, find them all and email your answer of the total number with your name and the subject heading OI FROG & FRIENDS! FAMILIES SOUTH WEST COMPETITION to info@kennywax.com before midnight on Monday 18 November 2019.

Applies to selected performances only*.

Ú`~íë=ëáí=çå=ã~íëI=Ü~êÉë=ëáí=çå=ÅÜ~áêëI=ãìäÉë=ëáí=çå=ëíççäëI ÖçéÜÉêë=ëáí=çå=ëçÑ~ë=~åÇ=ÑêçÖë=ëáí=çå=äçÖëÛ=

It’s a new day at Sittingbottom school and FROG is looking for a place to sit, but CAT has other ideas and DOG is doing as he’s told. Little do any of them know that chaos is coming...

Who knew there were so many rhyming rules and what will happen when FROG is in charge?

Join FROG, CAT and DOG in this new action-packed stage adaptation of Kes Gray and Jim Field’s bestselling series of books with songs, puppets, laughs and more rhymes than you can shake a chime at. www.oifrogandfriendslive.com

55 minutes of fun for ages 3+

T&Cs - Prize is for one family ticket (admits 4, minimum 1 adult) to see Oi Frog & Friends! live on stage at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue for selected performances from *29 November – 18 December 2019 only.

The winner will be selected by random prize draw of the entries with the correct answer. Tickets are subject to availability, hold no cash value and are not transferable. No answers will be accepted after the closing date of midnight on Monday 18 November 2019 and all decisions are final.

All Oi Frog illustrations

by Jim Field

AF RE W EF AM IN ILY TIC KE T!

Paddington™ on ice arrives at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland 2019 This festive season, Paddington™ on Ice will make its UK debut at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

Following its incredible success at Germany’s largest theme park, Europa-Park, Paddington will be gliding onto the ice from Thursday 21st November 2019.

You have the chance to join the exclusive VIP opening of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, along with celebrities and special guests. Watch Paddington as he takes to the ice for the first time in the UK and be amongst the first to marvel at this spectacular ice show at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.

The 45-minute show perfectly showcases Paddington’s much loved personality and combines award-winning international figure skaters with a brilliant

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ensemble of impressive costumes. Topped off with an irresistible musical soundtrack that makes it hard to stay in your seat, Paddington™ on Ice creates the perfect festive show for family and friends of all ages.

The spectacular performance tells the tale of Paddington and his adventures as he travels on a ship from Peru to London, discovering new places and meeting new friends along the way.

We have four tickets to give away

Paddington™ on Ice at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a must for all Paddington fans and gives festive visitors the chance to catch the most iconic bear on ice for the very first time in the UK.

for a family of up to 5 people to see Paddington on Ice at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland on a date of your choice.

hydeparkwinterwonderland.com /attraction/paddington-on-ice/

Send your reply to editor@familiessw.co.uk marked Paddington for your chance to win.

Question: Where can you see the UK’s most beloved bear on the ice this festive season?

Closing date: 01.12.2019

FamiliesSWLon

November/December 2019 • Families South West 39

40 Families South West • November/December 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On November and December 2019 Nativity the Musical at Eventim Apollo

World Heart Beat 51st State Band

If you only do one thing this month…

Participate in a living advent calendar!

Get the children outdoors and mingle with the local community this December as the whole area of Nine Elms (on the south bank of the Thames) becomes a Living Advent Calendar! From 1–24 December, a new Christmas Carol themed ‘Window’ will be revealed each night, at a fabulous opening event in a different venue. All ages can join in the excitement of this giant Advent Calendar of art, as cafes, pubs, churches, schools and shops throw open their doors each evening for free festive celebrations.

A true community event!

The calendar is being co-ordinated by Nine Elms Arts Ministry, an emerging community exploring the arts, spirituality and social justice. All 24 windows will be available to view as a trail from Christmas Day until 5th January, giving a wonderfully festive way to explore Nine Elms with its iconic landmarks including Battersea Power Station, New Covent Garden Market, the new American Embassy.

Free event in support of Wandsworth Foodbank and Action Against Hunger. To receive an e-copy of the flyer with a map and details of the nightly opening events and the trails and walks, email adventcalendar@nineelmsartsministry.org www.nineelmsartsministry.org (going live mid November)

CONCERTS Bach to Baby www.bachtobaby.com The critically acclaimed classical concert series for baby and you.

Outstanding musicians, exhilarating performances. Concerts in Balham, Earlsfield, Putney, Raynes Park, Southfields, Streatham and Wimbledon. Check the website.

Music House for Children W12 7LJ www.musichouseforchildren.com 8 Dec Carols by Candlelight Under the sparkling chandeliers of Bush Hall, families, friends and children will enjoy Christmas carols, performances and readings by children and artists. Expect an appearance from You Know Who… 16 Dec Little Birdsong Baby’s Christmas Concert A Christmas performance specially for babies and loved ones under the sparkling chandeliers of Bush Hall. 10-11am.

20 Dec Christmas musical extravaganza Fabulous dancing, singing, ribbons, bells, sounds, and songs celebrating everything Christmas. Expect a special visitor!

10-10.45am for ages 0-3.

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A unique Christmas party for every night in December until Christmas Eve, with refreshments, carols, entertainment and some unique festive treats!

Cadogan Hall

Southbank Centre

SW1X 9DQ www.cadoganhall.com 5 Dec Royal Philarmonic orchestra – The Magic of Christmas Begin your festive season with sparkle and style, with this magical evening of choral and orchestral Christmas gems, featuring the City of London Choir.

SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Mondays and Fridays Dragon Babies Bring your little ones to shake, rattle and gong. Gamelan for ages 3-5.

16 Nov, 7 Dec, 4 Jan Family gamelan Taster session All the family can play in the Javanese gamelan percussion orchestra. No previous musical experience is necessary, just a willingness to sit on the floor, take off your shoes and have fun. Each workshop lasts for two hours.

15, 16 Nov Jazz for toddlers Get the kids syncopating at an

The Royal Albert Hall SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com 6 Dec The legend of the jazz Penguin An interactive adventure in The Legend of the Jazz Penguin.

We hear the tale of how the penguin got his jazz, as we journey around the world meeting a variety of music loving animals from dancing eggs to a drumming Octopus. Expect tooting, trumpeting and bopping in this hilarious and Christmassy celebration of music.

15 Dec My Christmas orchestral adventure Father Christmas has lost his map on a practice run of his delivery route! Thankfully our trusty ensemble has found it but they need your help to return it to him ahead of the big day! A full symphony orchestra will bring this adventure to life.

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interactive musical session for children aged 2 – 5. In a dynamic workshop led by vocalist Juliet Kelly and saxophonist Tony Kofi, toddlers can explore the wonderful world of jazz. Explore a range of sounds, techniques and styles and take away musical ideas 23 Nov-23 Feb Soundpit Play in giant sandpits illuminated by beautiful graphics, creating music with your own movements. Run your hands through the sand, sit in it or even walk across it. You are the composer of your own masterpiece. 45-minute sessions run hourly from 10.15am until 4.15pm.

November/December 2019 • Families South West 41

42 Families South West • November/December 2019

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Candlelit Concert Kids for Kids

The Paper Dolls at the Polka Theatre

Gift of Sight Fair 19th November

glittering mirror ball alley. Traditional fairground rides and heritage inspired gifts also available. Family tickets from £31.60, book first.

Diary Dates ...

French Film Festival UK

The Independent School Show

www.frenchfilmfestival.org.uk 1 Nov–15 Dec The only festival dedicated to French and Francophone cinema, embracing it in all its diversity, featuring a bumper programme bursting with variety and vitality. Over 50 films showing in 35 towns across the UK. At Cine Lumiere, SW7; Regent Street Cinema, W1 and Watermans Arts Centre.

Battersea Evolution, SW8 4NW 9-10 November The show brings together the sector's leading schools, brightest thinkers and the most respected heads to help you make the right decisions for your child. Book now for this year's show to find out everything you need to know about independent education.

CAROL SERVICES

Luna Winter Cinema NCT Clapham & District Branch

Kensington Palace pavilion www.thelunacinema.com 15-23 Dec Snuggle up to watch some classic Christmas films including Home Alone, It’s a Wonderful Life and Love Actually. Tickets from £13. Mulled wine, mince pies and hot chocolate on offer.

• Fulham Palace Carols in the beautifully restored Tudor courtyard at Fulham Palace 1 December at 3.30pm & 4.30pm, 2 December 4.30pm, 11 December 7pm Free • Kids for Kids Candlelit Christmas Concert featuring Joanna Lumley, 5 December, 7pm St. Peter's Church, Eaton Square, London SW1W 9AL £35 • Battersea Cats and dogs carol concert at St Luke’s Church in Chelsea, 5 & 13 December £20 and £30.

• Southwark Cathedral With renowned chamber choir Canticum and saxophonist and BBC Young Musician of the Year 2018 Finalist Rob Burton, 5 December, 7-9.30pm £45-65 • Carol concert Fulham Palace, Bishop Tait Chapel with Fulham children’s choir, 8 December £12 • Docklands Charles Dickens’s Christmas Carol Immersive family event Museum of London Docklands 7&8, 14&15 December.

Ages 5+ Free • Festive Family Carols by Candlelight St Martin in the Fields 14 December 4 pm £10-20 • On a grand scale: carols at the Royal Albert Hall 18 December, 6:30pm £22-210.50.

• Carols by Candlelight hosts Joanna Lumley as guest speaker in the majestic St Luke's Church, Chelsea. 18 December, 6.30pm £10-20 • Family Carols St Paul’s Cathedral, 21 December, 1111.45am. £10-125

Baby First Aid courses 2 November and 7 December 2-5pm Physio for All, Webbs Road, SW11 6SF 7 November and 4 December 710pm Eddie Catz, 279 Magdalen Road, SW18 3NZ

Mum2Mum market www.mum2mummarket.co.uk Nearly new sales where mums sell to mums, £2 at the door by buyers, kids go free.

16 November Ricards Lodge High School Wimbledon SW19 7HB 10am-12pm 23 November Immanuel and St Andrew's Church, 452 Streatham High Road, SW16 3PY 3:30-5:30 pm

Cutty Sark Greenwich SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark 22-24 November Celebrate Cutty Sark's 150th birthday with arts, crafts and stories. Help an artist create a textile sculpture inspired by signal flags and listen out for maritime stories. Visitors can enjoy face painting as part of the celebrations.

Museum of London Docklands www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands

23 November Family rave with award-winners Big Fish Little Fish as they bring bangin' tunes back to the museum along with a sensory light, confetti, balloons, bubbles and music from acid house to drum and bass plus a licensed bar to enjoy. 2-4.30pm, ages 0-8 with their grown ups, tickets £9 adults, children £7.

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Christmas at Royal Albert Hall www.royalalberthall.com 15 December My Christmas Orchestral adventure There'll be singing, dancing and best of all, a full symphony orchestra to bring the adventure to life. 1 and 4.30pm, ages 3+, from £15.50 28-31 December The Nutcracker Created specially for the Royal Albert Hall, with gorgeous period costumes, stunning lighting, and dazzling projections by Tony Award-winning 59 Productions, this Christmas classic is brought to life by Birmingham Royal Ballet's worldclass dancers and its orchestra, the Royal Ballet Sinfonia. Ages 5+, tickets from £10

Enchanted Eltham Eltham Palace SE9 5QE, www.english-heritage.org.uk Thursdays to Sundays 5-22 December Explore the stunning historic landscape of the Palace lit up after dark in the weeks before Christmas.

Magical secrets hidden deep within the grounds include dancing fairies and extraordinary talking trees, projections on the historic palace walls, chiming bells playing favourite seasonal tunes, lit fountains and a

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CHRISTMAS FAIRS Trinity Hospice Christmas Fair St Luke’s Church, 194 Ramsden Road, SW12 8RQ, 13 November 8.30am3.30pm

Greenwich Market Christmas fair With free lantern making workshop, 16 November. 1-4pm

Chelsea’s Enchanted Christmas Fair Chelsea Old Town Hall 17 Nov The Chelsea Old Town Hall turns into a mini shopping wonderland with multiple retails suppliers showcasing their best holiday gift offerings.

Entertainment and mulled wine make the experience even better!

Gift of Sight Fair Chelsea Old Town Hall, SW3 5EE 19 November www.stjohneyehospital.org A special focus on bespoke designed and made products, including beautiful jewellery, quality homewares, fashion accessories, charming children’s clothes, gourmet food and wine.

About 80 stallholders, handpicked from many more applicants by their experienced committee to ensure quality.

Christmas shopping with a conscience at the annual Gift of Sight Fair in aid of St John Eye Hospital 10% of everything you spend goes to charity.

12- 6pm, £5

Wimbledon Christmas Markets Wimbledon Piazza Weekends, Nov 23 – Dec 22 lovewimbledon.org Enjoy your 12 days of Christmas with 12 days of market stalls spread across several weekends. Open 11am to 6pm each open day, the market offers up 50 stalls of artwork, crafts, clothing and, of course, food and drink! With different traders each weekend, no two markets are the same! continued on p. 44

November/December 2019 • Families South West 43

French Film Festival

Christmas by the River www.londonbridgecity.co.uk 26 November - 5 January Perfect for family and friends, Christmas by The River boasts 70+ stalls alongside a busy schedule of creative workshops, to keep both parents and little ones busy over the Christmas break. Nestled between the Pier and Tower Bridge, the festive stalls offer a stunning array of boutique gifts and delicious world cuisine, for a unique Christmas shopping experience with unbeatable riverside views. Open from 11am daily; to 7pm Sundays to Wednesdays, 9pm Thursdays to Saturdays, closed Christmas Day.

Kensington Mums Family Christmas Fair 2019 The Holiday Inn Kensington forum 1 December 40+ stalls with various exhibitors. The fair will also feature kids’ entertainment, various inspirational speakers, raffle prizes and goody bags supporting a great charity. Plus we will have drinks and canapés as we will celebrate Kensington Mums turning 8!

Wimbledon Winter Wonderland Wimbledon Broadway lovewimbledon.org 1 Dec The Broadway becomes pedestrianized and turned into a Winter Wonderland

Oi Frog & Friends at the Lyric Theatre

the first day of December. Enjoy the ice sculpture show and snow globe photo booth before sitting down to some food and band music. Fireworks begin at 5.30 pm

St Andrew’s Club Christmas community event St Stephen's Church, Rochester Row, London SW1, 5 December 2019, 7-8pm

Heathbrooks primary School Christmas fair 6 December 124pm

Christmas Tree festival Trinity Church, Mansel Road, SW19, 6-8 December The church will be filled with beautifully decorated and illuminated trees for their 5th Christmas Tree Festival. It always looks stunning! Their Craft and gift fair is 7 December 11am-5pm

Joanna Lumley at Christmas Concert

Christmas in the Village Wimbledon Village www.wimbledon-village.com 8 Dec It’s fun for the entire family in the village. Whether it’s face-painting, storytimes, mulled wine and carols or a Christmas market, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for Santa on horseback!

Ravenstone School Balham Christmas Fair 7 December

Solo Craft Fair Christmas market at Balham Bowls Club (BBC) Balham www.solocraftfair.com 7 December 12-5pm

9 & 10 December Il Circolo Charity is returning with its Italian Christmas Bazaar, a true celebration of the Italian heritage.

They will bring together some of the finest Italian products, with a focus on the Veneto region, where Romeo and Juliet fell in love and Tiramisú was invented. Don’t miss the opportunity to buy the best of Made in Italy directly from the vendors!

Products range from food to fashion, from local crafts to gift ideas and Christmas presents. 9 Dec 12-6pm 10 Dec 10- 6pm

Christmas in Leicester Square www.christmasinleicestersquare.com Until 5 January Leicester Square transforms the centre of bustling London into a winter wonderland of theatre, music, cabaret and comedy performances, traditional Christmas markets, handcrafted goods, delicious food and drinks. Grotto plus a whole host of fantastic Underbelly shows in the beautiful surrounds of a traditional 1920s Spiegeltent.

ICE RINKS Natural History Museum 19 October - 12 January Book in London’s best-loved ice rink for your little ones and take advantage of the weekday sessions and enjoy free hot chocolate postskate. Penguin skating aids for little Bambi legs.

Somerset House with Fortnum & Mason 13 November - 12 January 2020 London’s finest department store will be taking over the House’s courtyard

44 Families South West • November/December 2019

THEATRE Apollo Theatre

Il Circolo, Veneto edition

Abbeville Christmas Fete at Abbeville Church 7 December 12-6pm

with everything from a Christmas arcade – ideal for picking up stocking fillers, to the Fortnum’s Lodge which will be serving up festive treats such as cheese fondue, baked camembert and a Bailey’s infused hot choc.

nimaxtheatres.com 30 November–5 January 2020 The Snail and the Whale This heartwarming family show is inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture book of the same name. It’s also produced by the same team behind productions of The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom. Live music, storytelling and lots of laughs—but when the whale gets beached, how will the snail save him? From 4yrs.

Circus 1903 Royal Festival Hall www.circus1903.com 19 Dec- 5 Jan Experience the thrills and daredevil entertainment of a turn-of-thecentury circus this Christmas. Circus 1903 returns to Southbank Centre, with new acts for 2019 including the Brazilian Wheel of Death. The show includes sensational life-sized elephants stunningly created by puppeteers from War Horse, putting elephants back in the ring as never before. The circus boasts a huge cast of jaw-dropping and dangerous acts from all corners of the globe.

Featuring acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, trapeze and high-wire performers and more, this show captivates and transports audiences of all ages to the golden age of circus. Ages 3+, tickets from £29.50, concessions 25% off.

Colour House Theatre Watermill Way, Colliers Wood, SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Until 10 November Robin Hood and Maid Marian This action-packed musical is a real treat for boys and girls, with lots of laughs and giggles for all ages to enjoy along the way. Saturday and Sunday 12pm and 3pm £12/£10

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St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group

Leicester Square Theatre www.leicestersquaretheatre.com Until 26 Jan The Stick Man This award-winning production, from the team behind The Scarecrows' Wedding, features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves! All ages.

Little Angel Theatre www.littleangeltheatre.com The Pixie and the Pudding 22 November - 2 February. This brand new musical brings a tale from Scandinavian folklore to life with puppetry, original music and a sprinkling of pixie magic. Ages 4-11, tickets £13 children, £15 adults.

ME... 29 November - 2 February.

Based on Emma Dodd's early years picture book, this is a lovely and touching story about a parent and their love for their child. Ages 2-5, tickets £11.50 children, £13.50 adults.

St John’s Christmas Fair

and Tomorrow, you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll love it!

‘LAVISH ESCAPISM’ (The Daily Telegraph) ‘AN ALL-SINGING ALLDANCING TRIUMPH’ (OK! Magazine) 2yrs+ from £13.

Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever!

Duke of York’s Theatre, WC2N 4BG www.peppapiglive.com From 29 November – 5 January Packed full of songs, interactive games and laughter. 10th anniversary tour.

Putney Arts Theatre SW15 6AW www.ticketsource.co.uk/whb 15 Nov Join the 51st State Band live in concert for an evening of exceptional musical talent from students at the World Heart Beat Music Academy.

Jazz and film scores played by over 70 young musicians. 6.45pm and 8.30pm, £10

Lyric Theatre 29 Shaftesbury Avenue, Soho Box office: 0330 333 4812 www.nimaxtheatres.com 29 November - 5 Jan 2020 Oi Frog & Friends! Packed with music, songs, laughs and more rhymes than you can shake a chime at! This is the highly anticipated stage show which brings together Kes Gray and Jim See page 39 Field’s bestselling and to win a family award-winning picture ticket books Oi Frog!, Oi Dog! and Oi Cat! published by the Hachette Children’s Group, into one action-packed musical production. 3+ from £15.50, family ticket £66

New Wimbledon Theatre ATGtickets.com/Wimbledon 0844 8717646 11-16 November Annie This ‘glorious revival’ (The Times) stars Birds of a Feather’s Lesley Joseph See pages as the tyrannical Miss 10 & 11 and 16,19 Hannigan. With its for their pantomime Tony® award-winning and Christmas book and score, shows including the unforgettable songs It’s The Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You

Polka Theatre @ New Wimbledon Studio Theatre www.atgtickets.com 11 Dec 2019 –5 Jan 2020 The Paper Dolls Based on the book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Rebecca Cobb, The Paper Dolls comes to life on stage with stunning puppetry and original music. A revived co-production with Little Angel Theatre. 3-6yrs. “A tale about family bonds and the links between generations…Spellbinding.”

– The GuardianFamily tickets from £11.55

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com 7 Dec - 6 Jan 2020 The Three Little Pigs, plus Captain Grimey The Three Little Pigs is a lively show that breathes new life into these well-known characters - each of the pigs has an air of mischief and naivety, while the wicked wolf has just a hint of a wry smile. A humorous morality tale. 3-8yrs.

Christmas by the River

The Snail & the Whale

for a helping of A local venue theatrical with quality shows, festive magic comedy and more. this December.

Check it out!

Southbank www.southbankcentre.co.uk 14 December-5 January Black Beauty The classic tale of Black Beauty as you've never seen it before. Saddle up, jump on and gallop headlong into a story where loneliness gives way to hope, friends become heroes, and courage saves the day. Blending storytelling, music and puppetry, this vibrant re-telling of Black Beauty offers fun and adventure for fans of the book, lovers of the classic TV show and those brand new to the tale. Ages 5+, tickets £20 adults, £15 children.

Theatre Royal Haymarket www.tigerstealive.com 9 Dec – 5 Jan 2020 The Tiger who came to Tea The well-loved classic. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her Mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big furry, stripy tiger! Ages 3+ yrs

Unicorn Theatre www.unicorntheatre.com 10 November - 5 January Oscar Wilde’s The Canterville Ghost This wonderfully witty, delightfully spooky retelling of Oscar Wilde's 1887 comic novel is brought to life this Christmas with spine-tingling magic, spectacular illusions and ghoulish effects. Ages 7+, tickets from £12.

15 November - 5 January The Wolf, the duck and the mouse This stage adaptation of Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen's brilliantly subversive picture book finds joy and friendship in the darkest and most unusual of places. Ages 3-7, tickets from £12.

IDEAS FOR THE WEEKEND

Streatham Space Project www.streathamspaceproject.co.uk Xmas Carol 10 Dec 7pm and 23 Dec 6pm Join South London Storyteller Amari

The British Museum www.britishmuseum.org See the museum's collection of

ancient and historical artefacts including the ever-popular Egyptian mummies. Free daily activities including trails, backpacks, object handling and art materials. Free, charge for some exhibitions.

Digital Discovery Centre weekends Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety of themes. Free, 11am-4pm, for ages 7+ (unless stated).

30 Nov, 28 Dec Little Feet : animal homes Find out where in the world animals call home and programme a robot to help find them in the galleries. 10am-4pm for under-fives.

12 Dec Little feet: exhibition explorer Discover the world of ancient Greek heroines and heroes, goddesses and gods plus a monster or two, as we set off on an exploration of the ups and downs, twists and turns and unexpected moments of Greek mythology. 10.30am-12 noon for under 5s,

Foundling Museum WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 21 Nov Bach to Baby An innovative classical babies’ concert created by mum and pianist, Miaomiao Yu, inspired by Handel. 10.30-11.30am.

30 Nov Spectacular Special effects Learn how the Georgians created special effects and have a go at these techniques yourself. 11am and 2pm for age 5+ 15 Dec Musical Christmas crackers After the family Christmas concert, join artist Isobel Manning to create snapping musical inspired Christmas crackers to take home and put under the tree. 4pm for age 5+.

London Wetland Centre Barnes www.wwt.org.uk An urban oasis for wildlife and people, close to central London.

Stroll among the lakes, ponds and gardens. The café is perfect for relaxing, and children will love the play areas. Regular events include: meet the otters, bird feed with a warden, talks, have a go at being a Wildlife presenter, and wetland explorers and more. See page 23 under Where is Father Christmas. continued on p. 46

familiesonline.co.uk

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November/December 2019 • Families South West 45

Cinderella at the Arts Depot

Santa Claus and the night before Christmas New Wimbledon Theatre

London Transport Museum

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES Charles Dickens Museum 48 Doughty Street, WC1N 2LX www.dickensmuseum.com A visit to the museum includes a free family trail for each child. The trail takes children on a journey of discovery through No. 48 Doughty Street, where Dickens once lived with his wife and young family. 4-12yrs, £9 adults, £4 children

Fulham Palace SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org Natural play area Logs and wooden objects saved from NEW onsite tree work have been stunning built into a new play area, natural play sparking creativity in order area to encourage a lifelong love of nature for the children who use it. Open daily from dawn to dusk, suitable for all ages, entry free.

Every Monday and Tuesday The Palace Explorers Join the Palace Explorers, weekly parent/carer and toddler sessions for children aged 24. £5.50 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack, booking essential. 9.30-10.30am

www.ltmuseum.co.uk Hidden London Experience an 'abandoned' Tube station underworld and discover secrets beneath our busy streets. Hidden London - The Exhibition takes visitors on an immersive journey of some of London's most secret spaces belonging to the oldest subterranean railway in the world.

14, 15, 20, 21 Dec Christmas lights and sight tours Climb aboard the cosy original RT bus and experience the city at Christmastime. You'll start at the Museum where you can get into the festive spirit with a festive film screening, crafts and treats before heading off through the sparkling West End seeing some of the stunning lights around London including Regent Street, Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus (to name a few) on an historic bus.

Family tours from 2.30pm.

Museum of London www.museumoflondon.org.uk Beasts of London Until January 2020 Step into a tour through London’s history, narrated by the animals who once lived here. Beasts of London explores the fascinating role animals have played in shaping the capital. Be guided through time, from the Roman era through

Medieval London and right up to present day, narrated by the beasts themselves. Discover how animals – from lions and elephants, to horses, rats and pigeons – have shaped the city and its beastly history. Age 7+ Christmas Cracker Joke Workshop 28+29 December. Learn how to build a joke and practice your puns in an interactive workshop with comedian Dan de la Motte. Ages 6+, tickets free on the day.

Victorian Ghost stories 30 December and 1 January. Join a mysterious governess who will lead a spine-tingling tale of seances, haunted houses and Christmas ghosts. Ages 5+, free drop-in.

Festive Museum of London 28 December-5 January. Festive workshops, storytelling and performances at various times.

hundreds of real nature specimens that form the evidence Museum scientists use in their daily work.

Drop-in, ages3-11,11am-5pm.

7 Dec Dino Snores Christmas Special Ever wondered what goes on at the Natural History Museum at night? 7 11 years. 7pm till morning, torchlit trails through the museum, live animal shows and more. For ages 7-11.

National Army Museum Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk 9 Dec Tiny Troopers Bring your little ones to the monthly toddlers session, perfect for under-5s.

20, 23, 27, 30 Dec, 2-4 January Handmade Christmas crafts Create your own 1940s-style wartime Christmas decorations out of recycled materials.

Museum of London Docklands

National Gallery

West India Quay, E14 4AL museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands The Sleeping Beauty 30 Nov, 1 Dec, 4+5 January. Performed by Ruggieri Dance Academy; a semi-professional ballet company composed by adults of different ages who share a love for classical dance. 1.30pm, ages 5+, free but book first.

Festive Folk Tale 1+28 December.

The Lord of Misrule comes to the museum to spin the festive yarn of Dick Whittington, who rose to become the Lord Mayor of London. Join the 'feast of fools' or try your hand at being a jester in this interactive storytelling session. Ages 5+.

Frost Fair Festival 21+22 December.

A weekend of festivities recreating the magic of Frost Fairs on the frozen River Thames, with interactive games and workshops, enchanting performances and arts and crafts.

Plus learn about winter traditions from around the world in this wintry festival for the whole family. 12noon -4pm, free drop-in.

WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun Family Sundays Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm.

Magic Carpet Storytelling For children aged 2-5. Sundays 10.3011am, 11.30am–12pm and 12.301pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day.

Every Wed Welcome Wednesdays Bring paintings to life through interactive music, storytelling, art and messy play activities. 10.30-11am and 1.45-2.15pm. For children under age 5.

Natural History Museum www.nhm.ac.uk Museum of the Moon is six-metre model featuring meticulously detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface, ambient moonlight and an evolving soundscape.

Investigate for families, every weekend Get a feel for how scientists work by having a go yourself. Explore

46 Families South West • November/December 2019

The Luna Winter Cinema

Science Museum www.sciencemuseum.org.uk The Science Museum makes sense of the science that shapes our lives, sparking curiosity, releasing creativity and changing the future by engaging people of all generations and backgrounds in science, engineering, medicine, technology, design and enterprise. Open daily 10am-6pm except 24-26 December. General admission free; tickets required for some events and special exibitions.

Top Secret: from ciphers to cyber security until 23 February 2020.

Explore the challenges of maintaining digital security in the 21st century and the unique technologies used throughout the 100-year history of GCHQ - one of the UK's intelligence agencies. The exhibition features

familiesonline.co.uk

Santa, New Wimbledon Theatre

over 100 never-before-seen objects, interactive puzzles and first-person interviews, revealing fascinating stories of communications intelligence and cyber security from the last century including cipher machines used during the Second World War, secure telephones of the type used by British Prime Ministers, and an encryption key used by Her Majesty The Queen. Admission free.

The Horninam Museum Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk 7, 8, 4 and 15 December Christmas Storytelling Cosy up for magical retellings of the classic fairy tale 'The Elves and the Shoemaker' with Sandal Sticks Theatre, using storytelling, song and puppetry. Five performances each day, tickets £5 children, £2.50 adults.

Victoria & Albert museum www.vam.ac.uk Every Sat Pop Up Performances Storytelling, interactive plays and dance. For all ages at 11am, 1 and 3pm. Free, drop in.

Every Sun Drop-in design Pick up a design challenge, hunt for ideas in the galleries, then create your own.

10.30am-5pm, for age 5+ In Dec, celebrate the festive season and design your own sensory Christmas tree decoration inspired by architecture.

4-6, 11-13, 18, 19 Dec Festive play for the under fives Take part in a multi-sensory play session especially for the under 5s and their families, inspired by The 12 Days of Christmas.

28-30 Dec Chill and Play rug Join the green rug area and play with sensory toys or enjoy reading time with your family and friends. Recommended for families with younger children or those who need quiet time.

10.30am-5pm.

Wallace Collection W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org 1 Dec and 5 Jan The Little Draw Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities. Come and meet the Little Draw artist and rediscover the Wallace Collection through drawing, familiesonline.co.uk

St Stephens Church, Rochester Row

Kensington Mums Christmas Family Fair 1st December, Holiday Inn, London

observation and plenty of creative experimentation. Suitable for all the family, 1.30pm–4.30pm.

20 Dec Get Cracking Get ready for Christmas and Hanukkah by making some festive crackers inspired by the Wallace Collection. Free, drop-in, 11am-1pm, all ages.

Leeds Castle Near Maidstone, Kent ME17 1RG www.leeds-castle.com 23 November - 1 January Magical Birds and festive Feathers Experience an enchanted, feathery world through a magical forest in the magnificent Castle rooms, from a lavishly dressed Christmas banqueting table to the glitz and glamour of Lady Baillie's bedroom. Write your Christmas dream on a feather in a room of winged wishes and experience shimmering duckling eggs ready to hatch under the tree, with the signature Leeds Castle black swan among decorations of silver and gold.

The annual Christmas Market will be open every weekend from 23 November to 15 December, offering a splendid array of seasonal gifts, toys, decorations and specialist food and drink. Outside, meet the Castle's real birds of prey, enjoy nostalgic fairground rides or take a leisurely trip on the big wheel for a spectacular view of the Castle. Castle and gardens

The 9th Green & Ethical Christmas Fayre will have hundreds of quality gifts for friends and family, allowing you to do your Christmas shopping with a conscience.

There will be activities for children, including crafts and face painting, and Santa will be there with a grotto full of environmentally friendly toys!

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admission £26 adults, family tickets £70 valid for a whole year.

Barbican Centre www.barbican.org.uk 13-21 December To the Moon and back Create imaginary worlds in this immersive, participatory experience inspired by the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. With a simple knock on a front door, you and your little one

will share a multi-sensory journey of discovery into interactive spaces of touch, colour, sound and special effects. You'll encounter props and scenes that conjure the natural world, made of unusual and tactile materials, from feather rain to velvet stars. You'll also be shown ideas on how everyday objects can be turned into tools for creativity and fun at home. Ages 3 months to 4 years, tickets £9.

Merry Christmas

Beautiful clothing which helps communities in South America and India; skin products that are good for the planet and great for you; accessories, homewares, books; Fairtrade coffee, home-baked cakes and locally made upcycled gifts – all in abundance at the HTC Green & Ethical Christmas Fayre.

They are teaming up again with Macaulay CofE Primary School, who will be selling Christmas trees, wreaths, and BBQ food outside the church.

Admission £1; children Free.

Holy Trinity Church, Clapham Common Northside, SW40QZ FB.com/GreenandEthicalChristmas

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