Families South East London January/February 2023 Digital

Welcome

Happy New Year from all of us here at Families! We wish you the very best for the months ahead.

It’s hard for everyone to keep New Year’s resolutions – especially children. Download our free colour-in Reward Chart which may help to keep your children engaged.

Whilst everyone feels like hibernating in winter, getting outside is good for us so, to motivate you, we’ve got some ideas for seasonal family activities as well as some projects which will help welcome more wildlife to your garden. And, once you’re back indoors? We have some great ideas for making family nights in special.

Finally, in this issue, we have Britannica Magazine subscriptions and other goodies to giveaway! Apply inside the magazine. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Top children’s book picks for 2023

Plan some great reading for your child with our children’s book suggestions, all just published or due to be published this year.

DJ Baby Funky novelty board book featuring spinning record turntables! Ages 1+.

Ten Little Bugs Part traditional counting rhyme, part fun-filled story - perfect for sharing. Ages 3-5.

Grandad’s Pride

Beautiful follow-up to Grandad’s Camper, filled with heart and purpose. Ages 3-6.

The Library Fish Learns to Read

Charming picture book about the unusually literary fish. Ages 4-8.

Weird but true! 2023

National Geographic annual loaded with brain bending facts and photos. Ages 7-10.

A Dragon Realm Adventure

Special World Book Day story (£1) in the actionpacked series. Ages 8+.

Dave Pigeon Bookshop Mayhem

Special World Book Day story (£1) - a funny, joyful romp. Ages 6+.

Valentine Crow & Mr Death

Distinctive, warm and funny. From highlyacclaimed Jenni Spangler. Ages 9+.

Yetis are the Worst!

Gilbert the Goblin’s new adventure – finding the legendary yeti. Ages 4-8.

Getting the best from online tutoring

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

SATS: getting in the know

By Jessica Joan

With Covid and the move to online platforms, tutoring has become more accessible, with more options and opportunities available. As a result, over fifteen percent of UK children are now receiving private tuition. But how can you get the best results?

READ MORE

Dulwich Prep London provides an outstanding Values-led education. We offer a wide range of opportunities to nurture independent thinkers who go on to be thoughtful citizens of the world, equipped with a strong moral compass and the ability to adapt to our rapidly changing environment.

Our Early Years site is home to our Nursery and Reception classes. They are housed in an award-winning building with five acres of woodland and playing fields. We are now offering tours for 2023 entry every Wednesday at either 9.30am or 5.30pm. We look forward to meeting you soon

In May, Year 2 (KS1) and Year 6 (KS2) pupils will take their SATS exams. Yet, from their very first day at school, children are being trained to be able to perform in preparation for these assessments. So what support can you give at home?

READ MORE

Put a spring in your child’s step with

Perform!

Happy spring term!

Perform’s confidence-building classes are sure to blow away the winter cobwebs and help children feel energised and inspired. This term sees children ages 4 to 7 trapezing and somersaulting into a Circus Adventure whilst those ages 7 to 12 work on a fun and funky adaptation of Robin Hood, in Outlaw. Imaginations will soar as children work towards a magical performance for family and friends.

Perform is not like other children’s drama schools. Its classes have a special emphasis on child development and use a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s potential. Run by experienced actor-teachers, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination and Concentration. With all abilities welcome, children can join at any point in the term and will take part in the performance.

Perform Area Partner, Hannah Conway, told Families: ‘Our Victoria Park venue is often full to capacity with enthusiastic children, so I’m thrilled we’ve opened new classes at the Time and Talents hub in Surrey Quays shopping centre, giving more children their chance to shine!’

Find your local class and book HERE , EMAIL or call 020 7255 9120 to book a FREE trial class in one of the following venues.

Beckenham: St George’s Church Hall

Bermondsey: Bermondsey Village Hall NEW

Blackheath: St Michael and All

Angels Church Hall

Bromley: St John The Evangelist Church

Camberwell: Longfield Hall

Chislehurst: Chislehurst

Methodist Church

Dulwich: St Stephen’s Millenium Hall, St Barnabas’ Church Hall, Francis Peek Community Room, Goose Green Centre

Eltham: Christ Church Community Centre

Forest Hill: St William of York

Catholic Church Hall

Greenwich: The Forum

Herne Hill: The Prince Regent, Carnegie Community Hub

Hither Green: Lochaber Hall

Kidibrooke: St James Rectory

Lee: Church of the Good Shepherd

Petts Wood: Lakes Wood Hall

Surrey Quays: Time and Talents, Surrey Quays Shopping Centre

NEW Woolwich: Under 1 Roof

Tackling toddler tantrums

By Sarah Ockwell-Smith

The ‘terrible twos’ aren’t called that for nothing! This stage of a child’s life is all about big feelings. Scientifically, it relates to the undeveloped prefrontal brain cortex meaning a child is unable to regulate their own emotions.

What is a tantrum?

Tantrums describe the state of an individual who is out of control, full of big emotions and stress hormones and unable to calm themselves down. Tantrums can happen right into adulthood but adults learn to self-soothe.

Toddlers don’t possess these skills yet. They are not being naughty or manipulative, they are simply being toddlers. Tantrums are a normal and exceedingly common feature of child development. Research has found that nearly nine in ten children between 18 months and 2 years regularly have tantrums, with most having at least one a day, lasting on average between thirty and sixty seconds (although it is not uncommon for them to occur far

more frequently and last for much longer).

‘No’ to the naughty step

Contrary to popular belief, ignoring, shaming or punishing tantrums can make a toddler’s behaviour much worse. These approaches ignore a child’s difficult underlying feelings and don’t resolve the cause or help the toddler regulate their behaviour. Experts have discovered just how much infant brains are affected by the level of parental care they receive. With nurturing attention, the part of their brains responsible for regulating emotion become better connected as they grow. READ MORE

Family meals made easier

What is batch cooking?

Cooking multiple meals at one time and then storing for later use.

Food is cooked in a ‘batch’, then stored in airtight containers. Meals are stored in portions for ease.

Batch cooking often involves doubling, tripling or quadrupling ingredients.

What you need

Big pans - you’re cooking bulk so ensure you have enough big pans to cope.

Large mixing bowls to bring all those ingredients together.

Storage containers and resealable freezer bags. Choose the right size for your family.

Labels. Keep track of what you’ve got and when you cooked it.

Intro to batch cooking

Benefits of batch cooking

Saves money - buying food in bulk is cheaper. Saves time – you don’t need to cook every evening.

You are cooking when you want to and not when you have to.

It’s healthier as you always have a tasty nutritious meal on hand.

Top tips

Set aside a few hours so you’re not rushed.

Prepare ingredients - weighing, measuring and chopping first will make the job easier.

Clean as you go and, if making several recipes at once, tidy up as you go too.

Cool before you freeze; food will keep better and save fridge energy.

Meal planning

This 2 minute video from The Batch Lady shows exactly what you’ll need to start batch cooking freezer meals.

This short video from The Batch Lady offers a great rundown on how to plan weekly meals for your family.

Best

cooking recipes

Macaroni

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

DIARY DATES

Vault Festival

Waterloo area 24 January - 19 March

An independent festival featuring over five hundred of the best live theatre, comedy and cabaret performers, including shows for families.

Imagine Children’s Festival

Southbank SE1 8XX 8-18 February

The very best children’s theatre, comedy, music, literature, dance and, most importantly, full-on fun for the family.

The Green Planet AR Experience

Regent Street W1B 4DY

11 February - 9 March

Travel through five digitally enhanced worlds to explore our green planet as never before. Inspired by the BBC series, this is nature at your fingertips in a ground-breaking experience. Free.

HALF TERM

WORKSHOPS

13-15 February

The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe Perform, Dulwich and Blackheath

Step into the magic of Narnia with a drama, dance and singing adventure for children awaiting on the other side of the wardrobe. This holiday course based on The Lion, the Witch & the Wardobe runs from 10am to 3pm daily at St Stephen’s Millenium Hall in Dulwich and John Ball Primary School in Blackheath. With magical creatures and a triumphant royal victory, this production is the perfect half-term treat. Ages 4-10.

13-17 February Workshops

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes

Various locations

Imaginative, fun-packed half day workshops introduce basic keyboard techniques including reading and writing notes C-G, plus extra fun and games. Ages 4-8.

THEATRE & SHOWS

Greenwich Theatre

Crooms Hill SE10 8ES

Until 8 January

Robin Hood

The poor citizens of Nottingham have just about had enough of their scheming, tax-raising Sheriff but fear not, our

hero Robin Hood is here to right those wrongs. Age 5+.

12 February

Tweedy’s Musical Mayhem

A comedy and slapstick performance featuring Tweedy and his friend Mike. Ages 4+.

Blackheath Halls Lee Road SE3 9RQ

4 February

The Nosy Little Troll

A warm-hearted funny Scandinavian story, starring a tasty brown cheese song, a lost goat and a bushy old troll with green fingers. Ages 3-8.

Shakespeare’s Globe New Globe Walk SE1 9DT

16 February

Much Ado About Nothing

Explore Shakespeare’s witty comedy in a practical and interactive workshop which explores the play through games and activities. Ages 12+.

15-17 February

The Winter’s Tale Gather round for an interactive, timetravelling, countryhopping family workshop. Ages 5-12.

WHAT’S ON

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

Until 25 February

Festive Family Tour Hear about the folk traditions that people practised in Shakespeare’s time.

Unicorn Theatre Tooley Street SE1 2HZ

20 January - 25 February

Anansi the Spider Classic West African and Caribbean tales about the master spinner of yarns, brought vividly to life onstage. Ages 3-7.

26 January - 19 February

The Trial of Josie K A story of defiance, the power of friendship and finding hope. Ages 9-13.

Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

29 January FUNharmonics Family Concert

Help untangle the Colour Monster’s messy emotions through the wonder of orchestral music with the LPO.

11-13 February

Peppa Pig: My First Concert

From Mozart to muddy puddles, everyone’s favourite pig family leads an introduction to live orchestra for the family.

12 February

Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes

The animated film based on Dahl’s classic book is soundtracked live by the Philharmonia.

Gillian Lynne Theatre Drury Lane WC2B 5PW

Until 8 January

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime Britain and embark on the most magical of adventures.

Duke of York’s Theatre WC2N 4BG

Until 29 January

Mother Goose Running an Animal Sanctuary for waifs and strays, Mother Goose and her husband live a wholesome life inside an abandoned Debenhams. But when a magical goose comes a-knocking, will fame and fortune get the better of them?

Theatre Royal, EC2B 5JF

Frozen, the Musical The stage version of the hugely successful animated Disney film features unforgettable

songs from the movie, spectacular staging, amazing special effects and beautiful costumes. Ages 6+.

Puppet Theatre Barge, W9 2PF

Until 29 January

Little Red Riding Hood

The much-loved story is injected with humour, performed using marionettes and shadow puppets. Ages 5+.

Various dates and venues Bach to Baby Critically-acclaimed classical concerts for babies and their grownups.

Daily tours

Horrible Histories: Terrible Thames

From Tower Bridge Quay A boat tour about the history of the Thames with the nasty bits left in. The journey incorporates immersive theatre and a unique take on London.

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy

Various dates, venues A funny, friendly afternoon of top comedy, where baby can come too and join in with the rumpus. Adults plus 0-12 months.

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

Horniman Museum London Road SE23 3PQ

Until 16 April Elmer and Friends

As well as illustrations from the Elmer series, there’s original artwork from Not Now, Bernard and Mr Benn, as well as cosy reading areas.

National Maritime Museum Greenwich SE10 9NF

21 January

Lunar New Year

Celebrate the year of the Rabbit with free workshops, lion dance performances and talks developed with community partners.

Once a month on Saturdays

SENsory Sailors An explore-the-collection session for families with children with SEN and disabilities. Ages 0-13.

Queen’s House Greenwich SE10 9NF

Ongoing

All the Queen’s Men Uncover the lives of Elizabeth I’s male courtiers and their personal and political

relationships with the monarch at the Queen’s House. Free.

Royal Observatory Greenwich, SE10 8XJ

Various dates

The Sky Tonight

A live show taking visitors on a tour of what can be seen in the night sky, complete with a fly-out to the edge of the visible universe. Ages 7+.

Cutty Sark, SE10 9HT

Half term week and weekends

Cutty Sark Characters Climb aboard to hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past. Ages 3+.

Various dates Rig Climb Experience Climb the famous masts and enjoy views of the Thames and London. Ages 12+.

Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD

Art Sundays

Be inspired to make art together as a family in these free creative workshops at the Gallery.

Family Fridays Free, expressive art-

inspired activities for families.

The British Museum, WC1B 3GD

Until 19 February

Hieroglyphs: Unlocking Ancient Egypt Inscriptions and objects helped scholars unlock one of the world’s oldest civilisations 200 years ago.

Natural History Museum, SW7 5BD

Monthly dates

Dino Snores for Kids Spend a night amongst the museum’s incredible collections and there’s an evening of awesome learning activities. £65. Ages 7-11.

London Transport Museum, WC2E 7BB

Explore the heritage of London and its transport system. Storytelling and craft activities.

Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL

21 & 22 January

Lunar New Year 2023

Celebrate Lunar new Year in a weekend of free workshops, performances and more.

Dangerous things (you should let your child do)

Let them experience ‘age-appropriate risk’ under adult supervision AT ALL TIMES. Research shows that it’s essential for a balanced childhood.

Use power tools

The use of a power tool is an important life skill that is good to learn early.

Spend an hour blindfolded

Challenge your child to live blindfolded – it’s fun and builds empathy.

Play with fire

It’s best children learn about fire safely with you.

Throw rocks

Children can’t resist throwing - and it can be managed safely.

Use a pocketknife

A life skill that develops with experience, whittling is a fun introduction.

Climb a tree

Another irresistible urge for children - fun and beneficial when done safely.

Blow up a bottle of coke

A classic science experiment which is spectacular - but messy!

Play conkers

This ancient British game can be safely played if done correctly.

Use a bow and arrow

Though potentially hazardous, it’s great for developing situational awareness.

New online children’s physio directory

Parents wanting to locate a local children’s physiotherapist can now use an online directory launched by Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists.

The majority of children’s physiotherapists work in the NHS. Your GP can advise about local services and make a referral, if appropriate. However, some parents choose to seek advice and treatment from an independent or private physiotherapist either instead of, or to supplement, NHS care. Many children need support from a physiotherapist at some time during their childhood. This may be sought for advice and treatment relating to posture and movement or for acute injuries.

Qualified children’s physiotherapists are regulated, have additional expertise in child development and childhood conditions and the right skill base and knowledge to deliver the best care for babies and children.

Managing children’s anxiety

Be fully present

Phone alerts and notifications are constantly distracting and family members often have to compete. Being fully present with the activity or conversation we’re having with our children - without distraction - demonstrates that we value ‘real’ time together and are fully available.

Avoid fuelling anxiety

Limit screen time

Research shows that too much screen time can lead to mental health issues in children, whilst lost time interacting with family/ peers can impact their social development. Monitor screen time, ensure content is ageappropriate, communicate about inappropriate images and model healthy device habits.

Spend time in nature

Children absorb emotions like sponges and overhearing the news or emotionally-charged adult conversation can fuel their anxiety. If your child is worrying about the future, use mindfulness to bring them back to the present moment—’right here, right now, with you, all is well.’ Tell them that you love them no matter what.

Nature-deficit disorder (NDD) can contribute to higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. But the good news is, it can easily be reversed. Spending time in nature is easier than we think: village greens, parks, commons and nature reserves abound in the UK and they provide the perfect setting for free family activities.

Claire at Bridgemaker Mindfulness shares her top tips.

Managing children’s anxiety

Claire at Bridgemaker Mindfulness shares her top tips.

Encouraging reading

Sharing feelings

Reading is relaxing, distracting and a good alternative to screen time. A 2009 University of Sussex study found that reading can reduce stress by up to sixty eight percent. Just six minutes of relaxing into a good book can lower blood pressure and muscle tension.

Can’t fall asleep?

Children are more likely to express their feelings when they sense we are fully available. Sitting somewhere that they have to pass by when they return from being elsewhere and gently inviting them to join us can be a good start. Listen intently without moving into ‘fix-it mode.’

Enrol on a course

Creating a comforting, wind down routine can help (reading a book together, listening to soothing music). Try placing hands on the belly, breathing easily and focusing on the breath, following the gentle movement of the belly that rises and falls. For the busy mind, try counting the breath to ten (in – 1, out – 2 etc) over and over.

Mindfulness apps/recorded meditations can help adults and children to relax and unwind but nothing compares with attending a course with a qualified mindfulness teacher which teaches key mindfulness skills. However, if, despite your best intentions and care, your child’s behaviour or anxiety level becomes worrying, do seek medical advice from a GP.