Families NW London September/October 21

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IN THIS ISSUE

Education Clubs & Classes Autumn Fun What’s on

September/October 2021

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CONTENTS

In this issue

CONTACT US:

4 5 14 16

News Education Clubs & Classes Scavenger Hunt downloadable 17 Tween 18 Autumn 19 Children’s Theatre 20 What’s On 23 Family Life 25 Toys

EDITOR:

Heather Waddington T: 01923 237 004 E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF LISTINGS AND FEATURES EDITOR:

Anna Blackshaw E: Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk WWW.FAMILIESNWLONDON.CO.UK

Where is Families North West London?

Follow us Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west. You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know.

Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.

Free gift for our subscribers!*

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Equazen Family Pack (180 capsules)

Ages 5+

Support your child’s brain health with essential Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids

Magazine Familiesonline.co.uk

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September/October 3

NEWS

Rise of the Girl

by Jo Wimble-Groves Coming 7 Oct 2021

Join Perform for Confidence Building Fun this Autumn term

Rise of the Girl is a practical guide for parents of girls aged 7-20, broken down into seven conversation starters to empower parents, guardians, and their daughters to face the challenges of childhood and prepare them for adulthood.

Covering subjects such as poor self-esteem, peer pressure and fear of failure, Jo provides essential advice for parents who want to raise confident, resilient daughters who are not afraid to aim high. The book also contains insights from well-known personalities who share their own moments of resilience, such as Anna Whitehouse, Steve Backley OBE, Helen Thorn, Nimsdai Purja MBE and Rochelle ‘Rocky’ Clark MBE. As a successful entrepreneur, blogger, mum and ambassador for Girl Guiding UK, Jo is on a mission to help young girls fulfil their potential and achieve success in a challenging world.

RRP £14.99

KSI visits Reddiford School

Perform weekly classes are packed with drama, dance and singing but have a special focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration.

Perform don’t worry about whether children get their lines or moves right, instead, they use a mix of drama games and fun activities which boost self-esteem and allow every child to shine.

The magical end of term shows for friends and family are a wonderful celebration of everything the children have achieved.

The Perform curriculum focuses on fun, friendship and laughter alongside catchy songs and funky dances. Class material is specially designed by Perform, with apps, downloads and videos for the children to enjoy at home.

Classes are available for ages 4-7 and 7-12 with a new creative theme each term and, this Autumn, they are taking the 4-7s to Outer Space while the 7-12s will be appearing in Bluebeard’s Bride.

At the end of last term, Reddiford School in Pinner had the pleasure of welcoming back a very successful and famous past pupil. KSI, the highly talented and world-famous rapper, boxer and on-line star, with over 34 million YouTube subscribers, visited his old school and met with pupils and staff.

After receiving a rapturous welcome, he then had the opportunity to sit down with Year 4 pupils for a question and answer session about his music, career and his time as a pupil at Reddiford School. Many of the teachers also remembered teaching KSI and were able to reminisce about his happy and successful time at Reddiford.

FIND OUT MORE. 4 September/October

To book a no-obligation FREE trial class at any of our venues in Harrow, Pinner, Eastcote, Northwood, Mill Hill, Watford, Stanmore and Ickenham visit www.perform.org.uk/try ***NEW classes*** coming to Kensal Rise, Bushey and Abbots Langley in January 2022.

Call 020 7255 9120 Email: enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

Special offer for Families readers!

Perform is offering Families readers a special £40 introductory discount on bookings made by 15 October – just quote LNW151021 Familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

Tips for a positive Parents’ Evening

By Annabel Gray Despite the sore throat and spinning head by the end, as a teacher, I used to love parents’ evenings. Those ten minutes can make all the difference to a child’s experience and outcomes at school. So, to make the most of them: Attend. Obvious maybe – but vital if you want to show your child that you value their learning.

Smile. The teacher you are meeting spends just as much time as you do with your child and will know them very well. Make them feel at ease and create a positive vibe from the outset.

side of the desk, focus on solutions rather than blame. Like you, teachers want the best for your child. If an issue can’t be resolved, book a further meeting.

Be proud. Your kids are amazing!

Tell them that!

Come armed with questions. The most productive meetings are when a parent brings all the queries they have to the meeting so they can be ironed out quickly.

Work these top tips into your parents’ evening and you’ll feel positive, productive and informed by the end of it. Want other tips to support your child’s learning?

What do you want to know? Their level? Their test results? How they interact with others? How confident they are? What the homework is about? How to do long division?

This is your chance! Don’t waste it!

READ MORE

Celebrate their work. Pandemicpermitting, let your child show you their work on display and their books. Most parents are surprised at the quality of the work their children do at school.

Focus on solutions. If there are tricky issues to tackle, from either Familiesonline.co.uk

Join us at Coates Way Nursery!

A happy place where your child will be supported and nurtured, in partnership with yourselves Our experienced teacher-led nursery class lays a solid foundation for your child through fun & practical activities

Come and see for yourself!

Now offering 30 hours FREE for qualifying* families!

Get in touch admin@coatesway.herts.sch.uk or 01923 670341 to make an appointment to visit “I have had two of my children at the Nursery and both have been very happy and are always excited to go in every morning. My youngest, who is there at the moment, has learnt an incredible amount in such a short space of time. The teaching staff are always lovely and have great connections with the children.” – a local parent

based in Garston, Watford WD25

www.coatesways.herts.sch.uk September/October 5

EDUCATION

Dealing with back to school anxiety

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble For most children, back to school anxiety fades quickly. But how do we support our children when it lingers?

Prevent common worries from becoming deep-rooted by establishing good practice and routines.

For children whose worries persist, this simple five step programme can to our children is that they don’t help. need to worry.

Take care of the basics. Ensure a Not sure how to be an ‘active good sleep routine, healthy snacks listener?’ and regular exercise.

Provide empathy. Find READ MORE uninterrupted opportunities to listen to your child’s worries, expectations and fears. Car journeys, bath time and walks are ideal. Listen actively, withholding judgement and advice.

Validate their feelings.

Ages Problem solve. Discuss coping Art Lab 6+ strategies, ideally led by your child.

Pouring Showing confidence in their own Art problem solving abilities nurtures Studio greater resilience.

Highlight the positives. Encourage 3 your child to recognise the fun available elements of school and not fixate on the negatives. Use questions like: ‘What was your favourite thing for Let budding artists lunch?’ and ‘What was the funniest explore colour & design thing that happened today?’

Be mindful of your own emotions T&Cs apply and reactions. They can create APPLY HERE learnt behaviour. By staying calm Magazine and seeming positive, the message

Giveaway!

6 September/October

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EDUCATION Holland House School

An independent, non-denominational school in NW London, for boys and girls from 4 to 11 years.

Registration for Reception (Sept 2022 and 2023 entry) Private School Tours available Please contact us to arrange a visit on 020 8958 6979 HHS encourages independence, individuality and creativity, whilst providing a robust, quality education.

Our pupils are encouraged to aspire and achieve across the curriculum in a caring community which fast becomes, and remains, a family.

admissions@hollandhouse.org.uk

Families OFS QPage.pdf

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09/07/2021

www.hollandhouse.org.uk A77596_Reddiford School_General Advert_FV.pdf 2

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10/06/2021

REDDIFORD SCHOOL Long Established Reputation for Academic Excellence Limited places available in our Early Years & Certain Year Groups

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An independent day school for boys and girls aged 2 years 9 months to 11

4th IN THE TOP 100 INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS (Sunday Times 2019)

• • • • •

Academically selective 100% excellence in all areas - Independent Schools Inspectorate Children prepared for Independent / Grammar Schools’ entrance exams Academic excellence in a warm and caring environment Outstanding staff / pupil ratio across all year groups

To visit the school, please contact:

The Admissions Secretary, Reddiford School, 38 Cecil Park, Pinner, Middx, HA5 5HH. Tel: 020 8866 0660 • Email: admissions@reddiford.org.uk

Established. 1913

www.reddiford.co.uk Registered Charity Number: 312641 Familiesonline.co.uk

September/October 7

10:18

EDUCATION

Teacher talk

Getting your school acronyms muddled? Confused by terminology your child’s teacher is using? Check out our handy guide.

Blended Learning: A mixture of face-to-face and online teaching.

Blending: The merging together of the separate sounds in a word.

CAMHS: Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services CATS: Cognitive Abilities Tests.

These assess strengths and weaknesses in reasoning and are used in some primary and secondary schools.

Circle time: This is time that children spend sitting on the mat or on chairs in a circle to discuss a particular topic.

Core subjects: These are the subjects making up the core part of the overall curriculum, such as English and maths.

Differentiation: Teachers can vary activities in class depending on the ability of different children and make sure that each student is appropriately challenged.

DfE: Department for Education.

EAL: English as an additional language.

Early Help Assessment (EHA): An assessment which identifies children and families who need support.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS): The Early Years Foundation Stage includes Nursery and Reception classes. The focus here is learning through high quality play. When your child moves from 8 September/October

Reception into Year 1, more formal teaching is introduced.

Fine motor skills: The ability to make movements using the small muscles in our hands and wrists.

These are important when learning to write or threading a needle, for instance.

Foundation subjects: Non-core subjects eg History, Geography, IT, DT, Modern Foreign Languages, RE, Music, PE and Art. Want the rest of the alphabet?

READ MORE

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EDUCATION

Can dyslexia be the key to success?

By Jemma Zoe Smith

It can be worrying when your child is diagnosed with dyslexia and, with one in ten people in the UK challenged by dyslexia to some degree, this is a situation that many parents face.

I’m dyslexic. I hold three Oxford degrees, am a qualified teacher and run two businesses. I was diagnosed after my first year at university, meaning that I went through school without any support or accommodations. I knew that I had to work for longer than others (I started my GCSE revision the day I started Year 10) and certain subjects, like French, were much trickier.

Several teachers mentioned that I may want to look into dyslexia as I displayed some of the traits such as poor organisation and time management. But because I scored well in exams and no-one really knew about it in my family, it wasn’t something I looked into until university.

population. Famous dyslexic entrepreneurs include Sir Richard Branson, Anita Roddick and Jamie Oliver.

So can dyslexic students actually have an advantage over their peers?

READ MORE

Advertise with Families from £75 per issue!

Contact Heather on 01923 237 004

The days of believing that students with dyslexia just need to try harder are over; now, schools and universities employ dyslexia specialists and provide accommodations such as extra time for exams, so that dyslexic students aren’t left at a disadvantage.

In fact, concrete evidence shows that a high percentage of entrepreneurs are dyslexic, compared with the general Familiesonline.co.uk

September/October 9

EDUCATION

Ride to school safely It’s Ride to School Week starting 27 September! To get your family riding to school (and beyond) safely, check out our great videos and articles.

Teaching your child to ride a bike

Cycling as a family

By Catherine Ellis

There’s no better time than the Autumn to start cycling: it’s generally mild but not too warm, it’s a beautiful season and cycling is a great way to see it unfold. But preparation is key to ensuring you get the best out of the experience and take an appropriate route.

READ MORE 10 September/October

Safety-checking your child’s bike

Transporting children by bike

It can be difficult to know how to best transport your growing family by bike. What if you have a baby? What if you also have a toddler? What if you have an older child too? Cycling UK explains how to make the best cycling choices for your family.

READ MORE Familiesonline.co.uk

Register today for the Autumn term

OPEN DAY

SUNDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER 1PM - 4PM

BOOK ONLINE www.rmsforgirls.com/openday

RMS for Girls, Rickmansworth Park, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 4HF admissions@rmsforgirls.com | 01923 725354 | www.rmsforgirls.com | @rmsforgirls

Familiesonline.co.uk

020 7117 6147

office@freereaders.co.uk

www.freereaders.co.uk September/October 11

EDUCATION

Top questions to ask on a school visit

By Emma Lewry Choosing a school for your child is a big decision that can feel charged with pressure and uncertainty. As a teacher, former head teacher and a mum, I’ve been through the process from both sides of the classroom door, so here’s my simple advice to make the most of your visits.

Firstly, read my tips on preparation for your visit here: So what should you ask at the school?

• What’s the best thing about your school?

• What are you working on to improve as a school currently?

• What do the children say about your school? (or ask a child if you can!)

• How are your classes organised?

Are the mixed ages and abilities?

• How do you deal with behaviour incidents and bullying?

• About any logistics that are important to you; Do you offer a breakfast club? Do you teach particular sports or musical

Watch Emma’s top school visit tips

instruments? What time does the school day start?

Looking for more essentials to get the most out of a school visit?

READ MORE

Calling all young 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 and we refund travel expenses.

We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies 020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

12 September/October

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EDUCATION

Free gift for our subscribers!*

Clinically researched combination

Equazen Family Pack (180 capsules)

Ages 5+

Support your child’s brain health with essential Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids

Magazine

APPLY HERE

*while stocks last T&Cs apply

0203 887 0486

Familiesonline.co.uk

September/October 13

CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs & Classes Directory ACTIVITY CENTRES

Ninja Warrior Watford (WD25) Our Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Park is a supervised activity and fitness venue inspired

by ITV’s hit programme Ninja Warrior UK! A great place for supervised family activities and for keeping fit, we welcome you on your Ninja journey. No charge for spectators to come and watch your Ninjas from our Café area + treat yourself to our full range of hot and cold food plus a wide selection of drinks! https://ninjawarrioruk.co.uk/watford/

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/ EDUCATION SUPPORT Academic Tuition from Little Big Leaders (HA8 & WD23) in Maths/English or Phonics & Writing for 3.5 to 11 year olds at our Little Big Leaders Saturday School, Summer School and Winter School, in our 8th year of success. Tutors support and challenge pupils to improve their learning, and have a track record in enabling pupils to demonstrate progress in their mainstream setting and/or in 5+, 7+ and 11+ examinations. Childcare vouchers accepted. Free trial lessons. (020 3637 6266) www.littlebigleaders.com Ace Tutors Maths online tuition in small groups on Zoom – no need to travel anywhere. Qualified teacher with 31yrs experience. Senior Examiner at A-Level.

Affordable but effective help for your children. All abilities years 7 to 13. Free no-obligation trial lesson.

Call, Text, WhatsApp 07737 853527 Vijay Bhuchar, BSc, BA, PGCE www.acetutors.com Code Ninjas Kids learn to code in a fun, safe, and inspiring learning environment, with a game-based curriculum that they love. Parents love it too, because their kids make real progress and gain valuable skills while having a great time. Everyone wins at Code Ninjas! www.codeninjas.co.uk DiscoG Coding Classes and Camps Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3

your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses are also available. (Gerard on 07767 300940) info@discogcodingacademy.com www.discogcodingacademy.com

FIRST AID

Free Readers (various) At Free Readers, your child’s academic success is our utmost priority. We help children of year groups and individual needs, from ages 3 to 11. We offer your child enrichment or extra help in Reading, Maths and English, homework and test preparation. Individual teaching and attention in small groups is our preferred way to help our children on the journey to freedom. We encourage them as they learn how to learn, enabling them to reach their full potential. www.freereaders.co.uk

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration. Usha Patel 07766 837 616 ushapatel.raviv@gmail.com www. integratedbrain.co.uk

LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT

Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. (07985 588 085) www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk The Learning Wheel (Eastcote) Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11. www.thelearningwheel.co.uk Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course. Improve reading age by 1 year in 3 months of home-based work. The computer interventions is similar to having a tutor in your home with daily monitoring and feedback. Usha Patel on 07766 837 616 8 info@ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist) .

DANCE Street Dance Academy (various) Teach children aged 5-18 yrs every weekend during school term time, with clubs in and around London, Hertfordshire and Surrey. Street Dance Academy also teach Adult Street Dance Classes and Zumba Classes in Twickenham every Wednesday. 0800 0236 236 www. streetdanceacademy.co.uk Elina Patrou Academy of Dance (formerly The Van Niekerk Academy) (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations. Online private ballet lessons available also. www.elinapatrouacademyofdance.com, elinapatrouacademyofdance@gmail.com 07555861561 ERS BEGINN FFER O L SPECIA

S 4 W EEK FREE Classes held Every Thursday at 5.30pm

Preston Manor High School, Carlton Ave East, Wembley, HA9 8NA

Every Saturday at 9.00am Harrow High School, Gayton Road, Harrow, HA1 2JG

Every Saturday at 2.00pm

For more information please contact us on

07739572487

patel.karate@icloud.com

St Helens School Green Lane, Northwood, HA6 1AF

MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course.

Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration.

Certificate valid for 3 yrs. Margaret 07814 191 395, email mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk

Etiquette and Emotions I am a certified coach, offering ‘Modern Youth Etiquette’ workshops to elevate your 6-12 year olds confidence and social persona. I also offer ‘Emotional Intelligence’ courses to develop children’s self-awareness and social skills.

Contact for further information info@etiquetteandemotions.com 07736 297029

Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded.

020 7631 6258. www. Cbcd.bbk.ac.uk Phonics with Robot Reg (various) provide fun, high energy classes which teach early phonics skills to children aged 1-4 years. A Phonics with Robot Reg class is fun, varied and educational, and the best part is that children don’t even realise that they are learning. https://robotreg.co.uk

MUSIC & MOVEMENT Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 yrs with small, age-related classes. Classes are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and core music skills. 020 8444 9435. www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk. admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk Monkey Music Award-winning Monkey Music, trusted by parents since 1992, introduces babies and young children aged 3 months to 4 years to music with a unique four-stage curriculum specifically tailored to each age group. Classes are run 6 days a week, at venues in Uxbridge, Eastcote, Northwood, Ickenham, Harrow, Stanmore and Watford. 020 8427 6595. www. monkeymusic.co.uk

SIGN LANGUAGE Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills. Babies 6-30 months. www.singandsign.com. info@singandsign.co.uk

SPORTS AND EXERCISE TISKA Karate - Learn the fascinating art of Karate.

Classes held weekly in Harrow, Northwood and Wembley. Families welcome, minimum age 4 yrs.

4 week free trial (07739 572487) patel.karate@ icloud.com, www.tiskakarate-harrow.co.uk / www. tiskakarate-northwood.co.uk / www.tiskakaratewembley.co.uk Watford Cycle Hub offering cycle repair services, maintenance courses and cycle training. They also accept your old bikes and recycle them, salvaging what they can; in turn the also sell affordable reconditioned bikes and bike parts. They also offer advice and information about cycling and bikes, including local cycle routes and maps, news about locally led rides and cycling opportunities. www.watfordcyclehub.org.uk

www.tiskakarate-harrow.co.uk www.tiskakarate-nortwood.co.uk www.tiskakarate-wembley.co.uk

ALL OUR INSTRUCTORS HAVE ENHANCED DISCLOSURE AND BARRING CERTIFICATES

14 September/October

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs & Classes Directory ARTS AND CRAFTS Stitch Club (HA5) Dressmaking, Stitch Clubs, Parties and Workshops for children, young people and adults in Central Pinner. A safe space to bring your ideas to life. www.stitch.club sam@stitch.club

THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS Perform Weekly drama, dance and singing classes.

Weekly drama, dance and singing classes. Confidence building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Classes at Harrow, Pinner, Eastcote, Northwood, Mill Hill, Watford, Stanmore and Ickenham. NEW classes coming to Kensal Rise, Bushey and Abbots Langley. Visit www. perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE TRIAL class. 020 7255 9120, enquiries@perform.org.uk KangaRooKids (various) offers Drama, Music & Movement Classes for 0-11’s and Birthday Parties for 1–7-year-olds plus school holiday camps for 4-11 year olds. Our classes are in Finchley Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday at Stephens House & Gardens, N3 and St. Paul’s Church N3. Book one of our events here: www.kangarookidsgroup.co.uk Call Ruth, A.K.A Kanga-Rooth, for a chat on 07710 802 956 or email ruth@kangarookidsgroup.co.uk

Blank Canvas Art Club Online, Fine Art classes for kids and adults from 6-106 teaching skills & techniques whilst encouraging imagination and finding your own style whatever your experience.

Weekday Afterschool kids classes explore different artists, topics and skills as well as promoting self-confidence & a can do attitude and support the any benefits that a creative outlet can have on any age. Adults evening or daytime classes are suitable for beginners or refreshers – perfect if you loved Art at school but haven’t been able to find the time to keep it going. Groups are friendly, & supportive and a perfect way to switch off.

Contact Suzi at blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com www.Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub Insta @blankcanvas.art.club

SWIMMIMG Aqua Vie are doing regular weekly Tues, Thurs and Sunday Classes in Bushey during term times. Spaces for New babies, toddlers & Adults on Tues and Thurs. Learn mindful effortless swimming in a calm environment in warm water. Use less effort, swim further and experience the joy of water.

Email office@aqua-vie.com. www.Aqua-vie.com

PQA (Pauline Quirk Academy) (various) provides outstanding performing arts tuition for 4 – 18 year old’s. Each week students rotate through specialist sessions in Musical Theatre, Comedy & Drama and Film & TV taught by leading industry professionals.

PQA is enrolling for September! Book a free taster session at your local Academy www.pqacademy.com P.S Theatre (WD18/HP5) P.S Theatre is an independent, local drama school. With three stages to choose from, there is a place for everyone. A place to make dreams come true! Ages: 4-18. Email: jen@ pstheatre.co.uk. www.pstheatre.co.uk Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA5, HA6) Performance based theatre school for children aged 3-18 with venues based in Hatch End and Northwood.

Weekly classes in Musical Theatre, Ballet, Tap, Modern, LAMDA and Acrobatics. www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by having fun! (Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599 www.stagecoach.co.uk

CLASSES FOR GROWNUPS Woodcarving (Iver) A small group who would welcome new members. Drop in for a chat! Meet Monday mornings 9.30am - 12.30 at Evreham Centre, Swallow Street, Iver. webb1959@btinternet.com

YOGA & MASSAGE Kids Yoga with Yana (Watford) Yana is a qualified Kids Yoga teacher with a passion for empowering children to be the best version of themselves through fun yoga and mindfulness practice. www.facebook.com/kidsyogawithyana

World of Children’s Yoga

For children from 2-16 years old in Harrow, Watford, Northwood and surrounding areas.

It’s all about building: Self-awareness; Empowerment; Resilience.

Classes: Yoga in Education - Nurseries, Primary & Secondary Schools; Family Yoga and Mum & Daughter Yoga *Launching September 2021 - Girls Circles from puberty to teen*.

For more information, contact Anjli on 07784 370034, anjli@worldofchildrensyoga.com, www.worldofchildrensyoga.com www.facebook.com/worldofchildrensyoga @worldofchildrensyoga

Contact us to include your clubs or class in our next issue.

Call Heather on 01923 237 004 Or email

Holiday clubs, Breakfast & After school club for children ages 3-11 years

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September/October 15

Autumn tree Scavenger Hunt

Get outdoors and go on a treasure hunt with your kids, matching leaves to their trees and trees to their fruit. Download this activity and instructions.

DOWNLOAD FOR YOUR KIDS HERE

16 September/October

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TWEEN

The best foods for pre-teens

By Katie O’Connell We have a running joke in our family. If it’s not burger-shaped, my son won’t eat it. Finding out what we should be feeding our tweens is one challenge, working out what they will actually eat is another! Teen and pre-teen experts at wearetwixt offered us this advice from Katie, nutritionist and gut health expert.

Fats are not the enemy Healthy fats are probably the most important food group for growing tweens and are vital to healthy brain development. The best sources are fish, nuts and seeds. I recommend oily fish twice a week - salmon, sardines, mackerel, tuna (fresh not tinned), herrings, prawns and whitebait – and a handful of nuts a day.

Sprinkle mixed seeds over breakfast cereal, salads, in sandwiches and stir fries.

Katie O’Connell is an experienced nutritionist offering consultations to parents and children. Find out more.

Fishy and nutty food ideas Chuck a handful of prawns into a stir fry/pasta sauce with some chilli and lime.

Mackerel has a mild flavour that works well mashed into a dip with a squeeze of lemon and garlic.

Add pesto or cherry tomatoes to baked salmon steaks; serve with potato wedges.

Try salty anchovies in pasta sauce or on pizza. They taste great amongst other complicated flavours.

Spread nut butters - peanut, almond or hazelnut- onto toast.

Slice apple wedges for dipping in a small bowl of peanut butter.

Familiesonline.co.uk

September/October 17

AUTUMN

Autumn outside It’s a great season to be outside with the kids and here’s how to keep them happy and busy enjoying nature.

Track local wildlife

Create a journey stick

Spider web safari

Geocaching

Make a leaf stack

Build a den

Discover a wood near you

Make a mini garden

Build a hedgehog home

18 September/October

Familiesonline.co.uk

What's On The Alban Arena Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk Tue 12 – Wed 13 Oct - Stick Man Touching, funny and utterly original, Freckle Productions’ delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man is back in town! This awardwinning production, from the team behind Zog, Tiddler and other Terrific Tales, and Tabby McTat features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.

Artsdepot 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk Sun 26 Sep - Morgan & West’s Fantastic Family Magic Spectacular!

Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West are back with a show full of fabulous family friendly fun, frantic frolics and fantastic facial furniture! The dynamic duo deal out a delightful dollop of deception, deftly delivered with a dash of derring-do.

Ages 5+.

Sun 3 Oct - Comedy Club 4 Kids Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been getting the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit to do their thing for an audience of children (aged 6+) and their families… but without the rude bits! Ages 6+.

Sun 17 Oct - The Dong with a Luminous Nose Edward is a bit of an oddball. A shy and troubled boy, he is always watching the horizon, waiting for something to happen.

Then one day “the Jumblies” arrive, and his life is turned upside down... then shaken about a bit… and then a bit more!

Ages 7+.

Tue 26 - Sun 31 Oct - What the Ladybird Heard Join the clever Ladybird as she leads the animals on their quest to save the day in this joyous stage adaptation of What the Ladybird Heard, the bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks.

With live music, puppetry and a whole farmyard of fun, this 55-minute family favourite is the perfect treat! Ages 3+.

The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes.

020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Sunday 19 Sep – Rock for Heroes Music, laughter and a rockin’ Night out for all the family! Fundraising in support of Help for Heroes. All ages.

Chickenshed Chase Side Southgate N14.

020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk Every Friday, 10 Sep - 29 Oct - Planet Play Autumn Season These 45 minute sessions will encourage young children to develop and explore the world around them through song, music, movement and a truly sensory experience. Ages: 0-3yrs.

Tell them you saw it in

Compass Theatre Glebe Avenue, Ickenham UB10 01895 673 0200 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Tues 26 Oct - The Elves and the Shoemaker Beautifully crafted set and puppets, sublime music, a kaleidoscope of miniature shoes and a comic mouse all make this show a magical must-see this October half term. Ages 3+.

Harrow Arts Centre Hatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com Wed 27 Oct - Norvil and Josephine Norvil & Josephine are an energetic comedy magic and variety act unlike any other, full of theatrical escapism at its best. The show is full of gobsmacking feats that run amok as well as breathtaking comical acrobatics and singing. Bodies will levitate, minds will be read, and (nearly) death-defying feats will bedazzle body, mind and soul! Ages 7+ Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com

clever dog Ralph and be whisked away to the Stone Age! Ride with them on the back of a talking tiger called Sabre for a magical adventure through time. Help Roxy face her fears and find her way home in this charming, quirky and educational musical. Linked to the National Curriculum subject of the Stone Age. Fri 29 Oct - The Amazing Bubble Man Louis explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized.

Sadler’s Wells Theatre London, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com Fri 29 – Sat 30 Oct – Pinocchio If you need some half-term inspiration

look no further than Pinocchio from Jasmin Vardimon Company. Based on the timeless original story, this version combines physical theatre, dance and innovative technologies to bring this classic tale to life.

Watersmeet High St, Rickmansworth WD3 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk Sat 30 Oct - Once Upon A Princess The ultimate pop princess party Once Upon A Princess is heading out on the road for its UK tour. This smash-hit glittering production features all your favourite fairy tale princesses plus a soundtrack of top pop hits and movie musical classics that will have the whole audience singing and dancing.

“TRULY, TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS!” INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY

Thu 9 – Sun 26 Sep - The Wishing Tree This brand new play by Joseph Coelho, incorporating ideas from local Islington school children coming out of the pandemic, is a touching tribute to the importance of friendship and helping those in need. Ages 5-11 yrs.

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Sat 11 Sep – Sun 31 Oct - The Flight of Babuscha Baboon The story of a baboon who wants to fly to the moon in a hot-air balloon. On the way, she meets an elephant who is threatened by ivory hunters! This production is a magical combination of string marionettes, shadow puppets, haunting music, beautiful lighting and moving poetry, and is guaranteed to captivate adults and children alike..

The Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Thu 23 – Fri 24 Sep - What the Ladybird Heard Join the clever Ladybird as she leads the animals on their quest to save the day in this joyous stage adaptation of What the Ladybird Heard, the bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks.

With live music, puppetry and a whole farmyard of fun, this 55-minute family favourite is the perfect treat. Ages 3+.

Sun 26 Sep - Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show You think science is boring, think again; this is science like you have never seen it before. Designed for children and adults, Mark’s Spectacular Science Show explores the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephant’s toothpaste, vortex-generating dustbins and howling jelly babies! Ages 5+.

Mon 25 Oct - Cave Girl - Tiny Mites An interactive musical for 4-8 year olds and their families. Join Roxy and her

Familiesonline.co.uk

Children’s Theatre

7 Dec 2021 30 Jan 2022

Sadler’s Wells Theatre sadlerswells.com Angel

Family shows at Sadler’s Wells Jasmin Vardimon Company - Pinocchio - 29 & 30 Oct The Snowman - 20 Nov 2021 - 2 Jan 2022 Akram Khan Company - Chotto Xenos - 2 & 3 Dec September/October 19

What's On

listings for all the family

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing. Email Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk.

Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk for all our local weekly regular events.

it's updated every day!

Many activities and events require advance booking.

Please check the website in the listing to confirm terms and conditions for attending before heading out.

Until Sun 31 Oct - Paddington: The Story of a Bear (NW1) Join Paddington on a new adventure at the British Library. His heart-warming exploits and kind and caring nature have made Paddington one of the world’s most loved bears since his first appearance on the pages of A Bear Called Paddington. More than 60 years on his stories still delight people of all ages around the world. Now fans, both big and small, can join Paddington as he sets off on a new adventure at the British Library. www.bl.uk/events Until 3 Jan 2022 – Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature (SW3) Discover where the real world and the Wizarding World intertwine, and how the wonders of the natural world have inspired myths, legends and magical creatures for generations. Embark on a journey at the Natural History Museum where not all is as it seems, where magical beasts and fantastic animals share abilities and behaviours that allow them to dazzle, attract and escape. Celebrate real-world scientists who, like the character Newt Scamander™, help us to understand our planet’s extraordinary creatures so we can protect them for the future. www.nhm.ac.uk Sat 4 Sep – Sun 9 Jan - Korky Paul’s Magic of Illustration (HA5) The Heath Robinson Museum’s next special exhibition will be a particularly family and child-friendly one, being the first solo showing of original illustrations of the popular children’s book illustrator, Korky Paul. www.heathrobinsonmuseum.org Sat 4 - Sat 11 Sep - Impact Festival Presents...

Human Superhero (HA) Pop-up performances around the streets of Harrow to empower the superhero that we all have within. Swing by to be wowed with acrobatic feats from highly skilled capoeiristas (Afro-Brazilian martial art), and amazing movement from incredible dancers.

Witness daring tricks from an amazing aerialist, and laugh and sing along with our hilarious drag queen.

All performances are free, just rock up and watch! https://harrowarts.com Sat 11 Sep – Watford Memory Walk (WD18) Go together with friends and family at Watford Memory Walk, Cassiobury Park from 10am on 11th Sept. Sign up for free today and receive a brilliant fundraising pack, with plenty of tips and useful resources, plus a Memory Walk t-shirt! Challenge yourself to raise £160, or as much as you can, and make a real difference to people affected by dementia. www.alzheimers.org.uk/memory-walk Sat 11 Sep - 2021 Pinner Village Show (HA5) The Village Show will take place on Saturday 11th September 2021 from 11:30am to 5pm in Pinner Memorial Park. The show will be open to the public from 11:30am until 5pm. There will be live 20 September/October

Korky Paul’s Magic of Illustration

entertainment, children’s rides, a food court and bar and stalls representing local organisations, charities and commercial outlets. www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs Sat 11 Sep - Bilingual Families (Online) Royal Museums Greenwich invite you to join them for a virtual planetarium show presented by an astronomer in their native language, to be followed by a short Q&A session. This programme is intended for bilingual or multilingual families who wish to explore the Universe in a language other than English. This show will be delivered in Swedish. Ages 7+, 10-11am. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 11 – Sun 12 Sep - The Great Outdoors (HP8) In this special Great Outdoors weekend at Chiltern Open Air Museum, go and take part in some family drop-in activities. Learn fire lighting techniques and how to build a shelter. Discover what mini-beasts are lurking around the site, make some tree clay faces, try your hand at some orienteering and take part in a scavenger hunt. https://coam.org.uk Sat 11 – Sun 12 Sep – DogFest (SG1) Fetch the lead and tell pup you are all off to the ultimate dogs day out at Knebworth House! Make new friends at the best Breed Meetups in town. Watch awesome doggy-displays and join the pawsome new ‘Have-a-go’ activities from Ultimate Frisbee to Hide and Seek, and Pup Paddle Boarding! www.dog-fest.co.uk/ Sat 11 Sep & 9 Oct - Artisan Food Market (HP18) The market at Waddesdon aims to promote local farmers and producers within the surrounding areas, and enable them to showcase their products to the public. 10am-2pm, Free entry & free parking. https://waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on

Sun 12 Sep – Big Bandstand: Gospel Manna Choir (WD18) At Cassiobury Park bandstand from 2-4pm. The Gospel Manna Community Choir is an inspiring choir bringing energy and heartfelt expression to their songs. www.watfordsummeroffun.com Tue 14 Sep – Tue 9 Nov - Effective Parenting (Online) This course is for every parent with a child aged 3-12 years. This 8 week programme is aimed to help parents and carers learn practical communication skills for everyday life and to develop their abilities to bring up confident, happy and co-operative children. 7-9pm, On-line delivery.

020 8863 7319 to register; Or email info@ hopeharrow.org.uk; www.hopeharrow.org.uk Fri 17 - Sun 26 Sep - Chelsea History Festival 2021 (SW3) The Chelsea History Festival is back!

World-class speakers will bring the past to life from the heart of London with over 70 exciting physical and virtual events. Brand new for this year, step back in time with the immersive outdoor History Village and learn first-hand what life was like in Roman London or the First World War. www.nam.ac.uk Sat 18 Sep - Abbots Autumn Fest 2021 (WD5) A village festival celebrating its orchard heritage at the Autumn equinox to promote local food and food producers. This family festival at School Mead in the village of Abbots Langley, is a fun-packed day to promote local growers, food producers, crafts and community and to celebrate its orchard history in a friendly and intimate atmosphere of music, fun, games, and laughter. 11am-4pm. https://abbotsautumnfest.uk Sat 18 Sep - LGBTQ+ Family Network (SE10) A safe space for local LGBTQ+ families to meet one another, get involved in creative activities for all Familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’S ON ages and explore the stories within the collection at the National Maritime Museum. 10am-12pm. Please RSVP to families@rmg.co.uk to say how many members of your family will be attending. www.rmg.co.uk

ILLUMINATURE at London Wetlands Centre

Sat 18 – Sun 19 Sep - HowTheLightGetsIn London 2021 (NW3) HowTheLightGetsIn festival returns to the glorious grounds of Kenwood House on Hampstead Heath this September 18/19! The world’s largest festival of philosophy and music features over 100 events bringing together the world’s leading thinkers and the hottest comedians musicians, performers and artists. Head along to London in-person, or live stream all the events across nine venues on the online platform from anywhere in the world. https://howthelightgetsin.org/festivals/september Sun 19 Sep – Big Bandstand: Trinity Swing (WD18) At Cassiobury Park bandstand from 2-4pm.

Trinity Swing are a Northwood based Swing Band playing classic Jazz standards from the 30s, 40s and 50s. www.watfordsummeroffun.com Sat 25 Sep - Family Day – Paddington: The Story of a Bear (NW1) Fun family day for all ages inspired by beloved Paddington Bear. With entry to the exhibition included, enjoy creative activities and sensory storytelling for all the family. There will a special screening of The Adventures of Paddington TV series, a Reading Corner with braille and tactile books, a Sensory Room for some time out and the storytelling sessions will be supported

by BSL Interpretation. Places are limited so please book in advance. www.bl.uk/events Sat 25 – Sun 26 Sep – Rural Life (HP8) Discover the fascinating traditions of farming history at Chiltern Open Air Museum. Learn about a traditional Harvest and rural skills. Visit the Bodger’s Area and learn about what bodgers made. Learn about the fire kiln and saw bit and see the Harvest display in Henton chapel. https://coam.org.uk/events/rural-life-2 Wed 1 - Fri 3 Oct - Watford Fringe (WD) Now in it’s 5th year, Watford Fringe continues to go from strength to strength. In-person shows will be back for Watford Fringe 2021, with a whole host of local venues on board. Keep an eye on the website for more information.

WATFORD North West London Families https://pumphouse.info/watford-fringe

Thu 14 Oct - Mon 1 Nov - Happy Halloween at Paultons Park (SO51) Prepare for a ‘spooktacle’ at Paultons Park this Halloween! Tornado Springs, the park’s brand-new world of attractions, will have a ghostly makeover. Their exclusive show, The Legend of Paultons Manor, will make a grand return this year with singing, laughter and the spooktacular tale of Pickles the Pumpkin and the Spirit Squad. https://paultonspark.co.uk

Fri 22 Oct – Sun 9 Jan – Illuminature (SW13) a unique opportunity to see a different side of the wetlands while enjoying an immersive art experience after-dark. Join friends and family as you explore the after-dark trail through habitats of owls, geese and otters. Walk past reed beds, lagoons and the grazing marsh and see largerthan-life illuminations of iconic wetland wildlife. www.wwt.org.uk

Sat 16 Oct - Smiley Faces - Halloween Spooktacular (N12) This is Big Beat Playground’s favourite time of the year, and they cannot wait for everyone to come together and celebrate, this time in Fancy Dress! Smile, dance, create, relax and socialise, all within a family-friendly environment!

Takes place at Artsdepot. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Fri 22 Oct – Sun 16 Jan - Natural History Museum Ice Rink (SW3) Set against the backdrop of the Waterhouse building, the Ice Rink at the Natural History Museum is one of the most magical places to be this winter. www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/exhibitions/ice-rink.html

Sat 16 – Sun 31 Oct - The Gruffalo’s Child (TW9) Adventurous visitors will encounter muchloved characters from author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler’s book, including, Fox, Owl, Snake, The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo’s Child and of course, the Big Bad Mouse. Intrepid explorers of all ages are invited to enjoy a trail across the Gardens, following hazelnuts and acorns to discover more about the wonderful world of the Gruffalo’s Child. www.kew.org Magazine Ad 180mmx85mm-2 PRINT.pdf

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18/08/2021

Sat 23 – Sun 31 Oct – Halloween (HP18) Join in a fun-filled Halloween at Waddesdon Manor during the October half-term holiday. New for 2021, enjoy a fantastical immersive safari experience - head down Miss Alice’s Drive and encounter magical beasts from myths and fairy tales along the way.

10am-5pm https://waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/ horrible-halloween Sun 24 - Sat 30 Oct - Aliens, Zombies & Monsters! (N12) This interactive exhibition invites you to explore how children’s characters and 11:42 books are created, and will inspire you to dream

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FIND YOUR INNER NINJA at the supervised activity and fitness venue with obstacles and inflatable Booking and info at: ninjawarrioruk.co.uk/watford Familiesonline.co.uk

September/October 21

WHAT’S ON Thu 28 Oct - Myths, Legends and Fairy Tales Workshop (HA5) Reimagined: Myths, Legends and Fairy tales brings to you the legend of King Arthur or the tale of Snow White. This all-day creative workshop taking place at Harrow Arts Centre during Half Term is designed to bring out each child’s individual. Musician, Actor, Artist or Storyteller- this workshop has it all. For ages 6-12. https://harrowarts.com

Happy Halloween at Paultons Park

Fri 29 Oct - Family SEND Workshops (HA5) The Institute of Imagination (iOi) have created a brandnew Imagination Box and want to share it with you! In October Half Term they will be delivering fun workshops at Harrow Arts Centre with the Imagination Box. This box has been specifically designed for children with SEND and will explore experimenting with colours. It includes an array of sensory activities using tactility, sound, visual observation and visual learning. Morning Workshop - Ages 5-9. Afternoon Workshop - Ages 10-15 https://harrowarts.com up characters and stories of your own. The gallery will be packed full of life-sized alien, zombie and monster characters, ready to mingle with visitors of all ages. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Walter, a man born as a Muppet, can help Kermit and the gang save their Muppet Theatre by putting on a show. Screening takes place at 4pm. www.hillingdontheatres.uk

Tue 26 Oct - Half-Term Holiday Fun at Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) On selected Tuesdays the Museum’s Education team have created special themed family activities, games and crafts all for the standard admission price! Activities run from 11am – 3.30pm. Plenty of space for picnics and ample free car parking. https://coam.org.uk

Thu 28 Oct - Norvil and Jospehine: Magic for Opening Minds Workshop (HA5) Join award winning performers Norvil & Josephine for a special workshop exploring magic, movement and theatre that you can amaze your friends with.

This workshop will allow young people to use magic to explore hidden gender stereotypes. For families with children aged 8+ (All children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian). https://harrowarts.com

Thu 28 Oct - Film: The Muppets (UB10) Halfterm holiday film screening of The Muppets at Compass Theatre. The Muppets are broke and only

Sun 31st Oct - Halloween in the Gardens (N3) Head along to Stephens House and Gardens and visit the Spine Chilling Cellars, join the Spooky Garden Spectre Hunt and marvel at the moves of the Fire Artist. 5-7.30pm. Booking Essential. www.stephenshouseandgardens.com/events Subscribe to our October digital issue for fireworks events and early November listings!

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SIGN UP HERE to receive every issue classes & productions for Young Performers aged 3-18

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Harrow Arts Centre

Northwood

St Helen's School Trial Classes Available Book now and join us in September

Rehearsals commence in September

SharpeAcademy.co.uk 22 September/October

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FAMILY LIFE

The benefits of family pets

Kids’ books that promote diversity

By Caroline Wilkinson

By Tamsy Ashman

While raising kids can feel like enough of a job without the added responsibility of pets, bringing animals into your family home can be incredibly beneficial. A pet can provide huge confidence-boosting opportunities for children and can also reduce anxiety levels.

READ MORE

As conversations about race continue to dominate the headlines, it’s the perfect time to explore books featuring people from different racial backgrounds with your child.

Saving tips for families

Giveaway!

By Clare Francis

Over the last tumultuous eighteen months, families have realised the importance of having a financial safety net.

Financially supporting the various stages of your child’s life requires planning and the earlier you start to save, the less you will feel the impact on your day-today budget.

READ MORE Familiesonline.co.uk

Here’s some recommendations.

READ MORE

Turn your child’s life adventures into personalised tales with a Tales of Me book 5 of each book available APPLY HERE Magazine

IT’S FREE! *while stock last T&Cs apply

September/October 23

FAMILY LIFE

Is it really over?

Journaling for kids

All relationships have ups and downs but when the balance has tipped very much in favour of downs, you may be wondering whether your marriage can be saved or whether divorce could be the right decision.

Journaling is an excellent activity for kids. It creates an outlet for thoughts and feelings and a safe space for children of all ages to explore their emotions.

By Rhiannon Ford

You may have talked to your spouse about your unhappiness and not received a satisfactory response? Or feel you’ve done everything you can to improve your relationship and it’s just not working?

Find out what to do next.

By Stacie Swift

Journaling can foster greater self-awareness, self-belief and help with decision making. It’s also a great tool for encouraging gratitude, kindness and positivity.

Check out my five starter activities for children.

READ MORE

Dozens of family activities!

Check out the FREE resources at Only Mums & OnlyDads and find out about 101 Questions Answered About Separating With Children, an invaluable resource for parents in the early days of separation.

24 September/October

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Time to get tough with Tonka!

Find out about the new additions to their range.

Tonka has been a favourite with kids for more than seventy years!

Built Tonka-tough and designed to look just like the real thing, these terrific toys from Basic Fun remain a staple fixture in every child’s toy box.

Year on year the Tonka selection has grown and a new generation of Tonka fans are created every day.

Top of the picks are the Tonka Steel Classic vehicles that are instantly recognisable and are ready for super tough play whether indoors or out!

other trucks have issues on site, the Tow Truck comes into its own and is built to take on the toughest vehicle rescue jobs.

Already firm favourites, you can choose from a Mighty Dump Truck, Bull Dozer, Front Loader and the epic Toughest Mighty Dump that is built to last and withstand even the toughest Tonka Kids!

If you love Tonka as much as we do and have a kid that’s ready to get tough, you can find the collection at John Lewis.

New for this autumn are the Tonka Crane and Tow Truck. Kids will have hours of pretend play with the beast of a crane which stands almost 2 feet tall with its long stretching moveable arm, working winch and grabber. Or, for when the

We have a bumper Tonka Steel competition prize worth £100 for one lucky reader! Simply go to the Tonka competition page here to enter. Full terms and conditions on the page. Closing date is 1 October 2021.

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Enter the Tonka competition! WIN

September/October 25

TOYS

The must-have family game!

Get playing this Autumn With the summer holidays now behind us and children back to school, ToyMonster introduces the BEST family card game ever: Kids Against Maturity!

This is the perfect game for unwinding after a day at school; an ideal way to spend a rainy weekend and a brilliant surprise to have up your sleeve for play time and family time over the October half term… and, dare we say it – the Christmas holidays, too! It’s impossible not to love this award-winning, fill-in-theblank game.

Its age-appropriate toilet humour and witty innuendos for adults, make Kids Against Maturity enjoyable for players of all ages from ages 8 and up. Easy to learn, simple to play, and absolutely hilarious, this game is a staple for every family home.

The player with the highest number of most amusing responses wins the game.

Each game set includes six hundred cards – a mix of question and answer cards – from which players can create over forty thousand combinations of answers.

Kids Against Maturity is available now from Smyths Toys Superstores, RRP £19.99.

Best enjoyed with 4+ players, all you need is to ‘be the worst to be the best.’

Each player gets ten white answer cards and takes turns asking the blue question cards. Everyone answers each question with their funniest white card choice and places it face down. The question reader chooses what they think is the funniest answer and the player who placed down that card wins the hand.

26 September/October

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TOYS

Toys for girls AND boys Break down gender stereotypes with these toys all tested by children and endorsed by The Good Toy Guide.

Baking Set from Galt

The Genius Square

Pillowfight Warriors® Medieval Range

Smartibot Building Kit

Get budding little bakers started in the kitchen. £12.99. 3-5 years.

Pretend fight and play. £11.99. 3-8 years.

Pepper Mint Great Treehouse Engineering Adventure £35. 8+ years.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Race opponents to complete in this great game. £16.99.

7-9 years.

Build an A.I. Bot, Teabot or Unicorn from cardboard. £55. 11+ years.

Little Brian’s Face Painting Sticks

A fun, clean and messfree way of face painting! £19.99. 3-8 years.

Magicube Full Color

Enchant children with this magnetic construction system. £18-£35. 18-36 months.

Geosafari® Jr. Kidnoculars® Extreme™

See and hear the birds up close. £22.50.

3-8 years.

Discovery Adventures Digital Walkie Talkies £24.99. 6-8 years.

September/October 27