Families South East London Nov/Dec 2023 Print

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IN THIS ISSUE

Christmas Education What’s On Issue 222 November/December

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A CHRISTMAS LIKE NO OTHER

This kind of Christmas comes but once in a lifetime.

Whisk your family away to magical Lapland where you’ll meet Santa and his cheeky elves.

Call 01483 944 960 or visit SantasLapland.com Santa’s Lapland

Experience a Lapland trip you’ll treasure forever and book with a deposit from just £150pp and take advantage of our latest offers for 2024.

@santas_lapland

Families Magazine.indd 1

06/10/2023 16:37

THE CURLING CLUB

IS GLIDING ITS WAY BACK TO THE SOUTH BANK CENTRE THIS WINTER

Celebrate the festive season in style with friends, colleagues, and loved ones at The Curling Club, opening this October!

Located in the heart of The South Bank Centre this immersive, alpine-themed, curling-infused pop-up is the perfect way to party this winter and we want you to be a part of it.

Casual Curling combines a short, fast form of curling with winter cocktails and festive music.

The Curling Club is the perfect way to entertain friends, colleagues and loved ones this winter whilst experiencing the apres-ski vibes in an all-inclusive, competitive, social environment.

Call today on 0208 126 1561 WWW.THECURLINGCLUB.COM 2 Families South East London

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CONTENTS

Contact us

Welcome

Editor Linda Stone editor@familiesselondon.co.uk 020 8241 0423

There’s a chill in the air, we’re edging towards winter and the Christmas season will soon be with us! Get ready to shop with inspiration for Christmas toys for the kids and family in our gift guide. And, most importantly, check out Christmas shows, pantomimes, ice skating and more in our What’s On section.

Sales Patricia Holloway patricia.holloway@familiespublishing.co.uk 07980 556813 Design Rebecca Carr rebecca@familiesmagazine.co.uk 07789 882467 Next issue: January/February Booking deadline: 1 December July/August giveaway recipients Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list at https://bit.ly/JA23recipients

In this issue 4.

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Education Early years Christmas Gift guide Work What’s On Recipe cut out

In our Education feature, find out about multiple intelligences, choose a new adventure novel for your child and discover the connection between growing sunflowers and maths skills! Those with little ones can also learn about how to improve their social skills.

If you struggle with managing technology in a home working environment, our tech stress article is likely to provoke a wry smile!

You also have the opportunity to be the lucky recipient of one of our Christmas gifts for kids in this issue – make sure you apply inside and you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Linda

Calling all Young Scientists!

Editor, Families South East

Help us discover how babies & kids learn!

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas

We’re recruiting infants, toddlers and children to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s BabyLab & ToddlerLab in central London.

All babies and children who visit receive a thank you gift and we refund your travel expenses. Register today!

020 3926 1207 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk This product is made of material from well-managed, FSC®-certified forests and other controlled sources.

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.

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Families South East London 3

EDUCATION

Growing sunflowers and learning maths?

By Usha Patel Parents often ask me how to get their child interested in maths because ‘they just don’t get it.’ Luckily, they can give their child a lot of help at home in just a few easy steps.

Maths language It’s essential to keep maths language simple to build a strong foundation. Use words like ‘more’ for addition and ‘less’ for subtraction in everyday situations. For instance, you can introduce these concepts during meals: more roast potatoes, less sprouts! Repeatedly using these words alongside tangible materials helps children gradually grasp mathematical concepts.

Maths talk There are many words to describe each mathematical function.

When you teach your child the basic concepts of ‘more’ and ‘less,’ you are implicitly teaching them maths and how to think mathematically. By doing this, you are combining logic, sequence and memory. Having the basics in place can also allow you to introduce more words to describe the same function: ‘add,’ ‘together,’ ‘plus’ and ‘addition’ all mean the same.

Develop sequential thought processes Sequential thought processes are fundamental to understanding logical thinking. Parents can encourage these by discussing daily activities and routines with their children. By reflecting on how one event follows another, children can grasp the concept of sequencing, which is a vital skill in mathematics.

Establish logical thinking Children also need to develop logical thinking abilities. Fun activities like baking a cake or growing sunflowers can help introduce logic to young minds. These activities require following

a series of linear steps. Discussing each phase from beginning to end helps children understand the importance of logical thinking, which can extend to organising their school bags or planning for sleepovers.

Check memory Short-term memory is crucial for mathematical tasks. Insufficient working memory can hinder a child’s ability to hold and manipulate information during calculations. Playing memory games is an effective way to enhance memory capacity. For instance, counting games such as counting the number of cars on the way home can reveal memory strengths and weaknesses.

Finally, learning should be fun. When we are relaxed, we are more predisposed to absorbing what we learn. The funnier the delivery, the quicker it will stick. If your child is struggling and your efforts need to gain ground, take some steps to put the fun back into maths!

Usha Patel is a neurocognitive therapist at Raviv Practice London. If you need help to put fun into maths for your child, you can contact Usha at www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk.

Rhythm forms the foundation

Engaging in linear activities

Developing rhythm, sequence and logical skills are all prerequisites to mastering maths. Children can implicitly nurture these skills by playing a simple game of bouncing and catching a large ball by themselves.

Children can learn to count by rote, but comprehending number value represents a distinct skill set. Understanding value requires the capability to compare two or more numbers. Comparative knowledge can only be applied with a firm grasp of linear processes. Whether they are growing a sunflower or making a sandwich, precise steps exist to achieve the end goal.

In the first stage, they bounce and catch the ball slowly, counting each time it hits the floor. The second stage involves counting and walking one small step every time they say the next number. The sound of the step should synchronise with the ball hitting the floor. Importantly, they should utter only one number per step taken.

Achieving synchronisation between body movement and counting speed demands significant practice but becomes rhythmic once established. The significance of this game lies in the ability to think, move and count with ease. If children find this challenging, you may count for them until they can perform both tasks simultaneously. Once mastered, children can up the challenge by walking backwards and counting in reverse order. Or try counting in times table blocks eg 3, 6, 9, 12.

4 Families South East London

When assigned the task of implementing each stage, children can observe that they are systematically progressing towards their goal. Upon reflection, children can discern the steps and understand why those steps are necessary to achieve the desired results. The key is to discuss each step in the process, emphasising what comes first, second, third, fourth and so on.

By repeating the experience, children can perceive how individual components are interconnected within the whole.

Crucially, a specific order must be followed to attain the desired outcome.

Linear processing facilitates teaching sequence, logic, mathematics and comparative skills.

Familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

Seven of the best new chapter books for children

By Sarah Campbell

From animal lovers to budding detectives, fantasy fans to comedians, there’s a book out there for everyone!

Here are some of our recent favourites, perfect for your next reading adventure.

Around the world The Last Mapmaker Christina Soontornvat Set sail on the high seas with 12-year-old Sai in this extraordinary adventure set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world. As assistant to Mangkon’s most celebrated mapmaker, Sai seizes the chance to join an expedition to a land of dragons, dangers and riches beyond imagining. But Sai carries a secret that could ruin her dreams and she isn’t the only one.

Ages 8+.

Animal lovers

Kids who love fantasy

Michael the Amazing MindReading Sausage Dog Terrie Chilvers, illustrated by Tim Budgen

Spellstone Ross Montgomery

A fun, illustrated early chapter book perfect for young dog-lovers!

Michael’s dream is to become a global superstar but becoming famous is no walk in the park. How long will it take the other residents of Snuffles-by-Sea to recognise Michael’s amazing talents; and those of his trusty sidekick, Stanley Big Dog? Ages 5+.

One of our all-time favourite children’s authors delivers a brilliant new fantasy adventure.

Evie is used to going unnoticed.

But then she meets the mysterious Wainwright and is recruited to a secret magical organisation.

Suddenly Evie finds herself at the heart of an ancient battle to protect the most powerful magical weapon in the world. Ages 8+.

Reluctant readers

Funny books

The Day the Hiccups Took Over Jo Simmons, illustrated by Lee Cosgrove

My Name is Sunshine Simpson G. M. Linton

Hilarious and super accessible, this is a book packed with madcap reading magic from one of our favourite funny authors. Frank has a big day ahead of him, with a trip to the dentist, a trumpet exam, a swimming contest and tickets to see his hero live on stage. But he wakes up with hiccups and they just won’t STOP! Can Frank turn calamity into a dramatic triumph?

Ages 5+.

This book will make you both laugh and cry! Sunshine Simpson is a brand new best friend for independent readers. Grandad is always telling her to get out and find her own adventures but bad luck has a habit of coming her way.

Sunshine needs to find her voice and show the world she can shine.

Ages 8+.

Kids who love adventure

Budding detectives

The Thames and Tide Club Katya Balen, illustrated by Rachael Dean

The Case of the Lighthouse Intruder Kereen Getten

Clem and her friends are members of a mudlarking club, searching for treasures on the banks of the River Thames. Before they know it they’re on the weirdest, wildest adventure they could imagine on a mission to save underwater London! The first in a new series.

Ages 5+.

Perfect for fans of Robin Stevens’ Murder Most Unladylike series, this is a gripping mystery. Fayson’s cousins recruit her to their top-secret gang but seem more interested in food, squabbling and falling asleep! So Fayson takes charge and tries to track down clues about the strange shadow that has been appearing in the island’s lighthouse. Can she solve the case? Ages 8+.

Sarah Campbell is co-founder of Parrot Street Book Club (www.parrotstreet.com), an online children’s bookshop offering a handpicked collection of high-quality children’s chapter books, plus an award-winning monthly book subscription for kids ages 5 to 14.

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6 Families South East London

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Herne Hill School

Latest review just published Since 2013, Herne Hill School has been selected to feature continuously in the Good Schools Guide. The latest review has just been published and is once again highly favourable, concluding with the following ‘last word’ summary: “It’s a treat to see a pre-prep school doing what they have always done best for early years’ pupils, something of a treasured rarity nowadays as many have been swallowed up by larger organisations. Herne Hill School is a place where childhood is celebrated, with chatty, cheerful, children learning and enjoying life.”

We are proud of this review, especially of the many complimentary comments provided to the Good Schools Guide by our parents.

Herne Hill School, the perfect setting for early schooling } Embedding key values and developing ‘the whole child’ through a unique, continuous five-year curriculum } Focusing exclusively on cutting edge Early Childhood Education (age 2+ to 7+), the most crucial period in a child’s life } Transitioning seamlessly from play-based to more structured learning, preparing the children to move on at 7+ with that special Herne Hill School spark } Expert staff operating under the ethos of Love · Care · Excellence in which children excel and learn with fun and enthusiasm

What our parents commented to the Good Schools Guide...

“So knowledgeable and experienced about child development.”

“We feel it’s a very special school,’ said a mother, ‘founded with real love, and it genuinely nurtures very happy children.”

“You can see and feel your child will be happy and well looked after.”

“There is a real emphasis on nurturing each individual child and promoting kindness and respect for each other.”

“My five year old lives for forest school whether he is pootling about on his own making mud pies or in a small group learning how to build a wigwam.”

“The team create a wonderful atmosphere for young children, whose childhood is extended somehow by experiencing school in such a supportive and friendly environment.”

Apply now for autumn 2024 admission

} Extensive wrap-around care from 7.45am to 4.45/6pm depending on the year group

Herne Hill School Love • Care • Excellence Familiesonline.co.uk

The Old Vicarage 127 Herne Hill London, SE24 9LY

hernehillschool.co.uk enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk 020 7274 6336 Families South East London 7

CHRISTMAS

Festive Fun Spot the Difference Can you help us spot 6 differences between these two festive pictures?

Join the Great Search for Santa and experience so many thrilling adventures with Santa’s Lapland.

You can experience reindeer sleigh rides, husky driven sleds, tobogganing and so much more.

No one knows how to make Christmas more magical.

Call 01483 944 960 or visit SantasLapland.com

Families Magazine.indd 2

GIVEAWAY!

Therapeutic Fairytales Volume 2

06/10/2023 16:37

APPLY NOW!

This is the chance for THREE lucky families to receive a complete set of three new Therapeutic Fairytales (Volume 2), which show how being in nature can support children through different feeling states including anxiety, feelings of loneliness and OCD. Animal guides lead the way, offering gentle, mindful breathing exercises to help children find stillness inside.

Beautifully illustrated and sensitively written, these books explore the anxiety and loneliness we can all feel, while offering practical, self-calming strategies that can be learnt together as a family. ‘A truly wonderful set of resources – of value to us all’ – Sarah Temple, GP and author.

For more info, visit www.bit.ly/fairytalestherapeutic For those interested in storytelling as a therapeutic, creative tool, author Pia Jones and illustrator Sarah Pimenta have also written a manual full of practical, creative exercises on how to read with children therapeutically. More at www.bit.ly/ storybookmanual

APPLY AT www.familiesmag.co.uk/go Closing date: 1 December T&Cs at www.bit.ly/fairytalestcs

8 Families South East London

Experience family curling at Southbank This winter, the latest cool seasonal family activity returns, once more, to Southbank! So why not head down to The Curling Club and try your hand at casual curling?

Based on the Winter Olympic sport of curling, the sport’s ambassador, Eve Muirhead, captained Team GB to Gold Medal glory in 2022. Your family can now emulate her and the team by gliding your stones down a fit-for-purpose sheet, giving you an experience as close to the real deal without the need for ice or specialist footwear.

Combining casual curling with a winter spectacular of live entertainment, festive music, cocktails and delicious food that the whole family will love, The Curling Club is the perfect way to experience après ski vibes in an all-inclusive, competitive, social environment.

Spaces are limited and The Curling Club must close on 11 February so book today for an unforgettable winter experience.

Book at www.thecurlingclub.com/south-bank Familiesonline.co.uk

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DON’T MISS THIS CHRISTMAS CRACKER OF A FAMILY SHOW A Unicorn Theatre Production | The Bolds is generously supported by Charles Holloway

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Families South East London 9

CHRISTMAS

Christmas

TOP 10 TOYS FOR CHRISTMAS

Just Williams is a family run toy shop with stores in East Dulwich and Beckenham. Who better to ask what children are crossing their fingers for this year? Buy instore or order from their fast online shop at www.justwilliamstoys.com

BiOBUDDi Shape It Safari Big Blocks Ages 4+

Smartmax – My First Pirates

Rattle & Teether Collection

Discover the magic of magnetism with this playset in a handy travel case. The pirates can wobble on the deck of the pirate ship or go on a treasure hunt on the desert island. The metal playbox doubles as a play area and provides storage. £21.

Made from a safe, rice-based material, this collection of sensory toys helps babies take their first exploratory steps.

Designed to be held by little fingers. Gentle rattling sound stimulates auditory awareness. £20.

Children can create multiple animals with these blocks which have different animals on each side. BiOBUDDi can be combined with blocks from other well-known brands.

The blocks are environmentally friendly, ecological, sustainable and made from the unusable residues of the sugar cane plant. £16.99.

Ages 0+

Ages 1½ to 5yrs

Jungle Speed Ages 7+

Cosmic Fruits Scratch and Sniff Puzzle Ages 4+

Sylvanians Wisteria Terrace Gift Set Ages 4+

This smart terrace house, complete with Rabbit Mother and Baby, also comes with some furniture. A great starter house. £39.99.

Children will love the unique scents found in Mudpuppy’s Cosmic Fruits Scratch and Sniff Puzzle. This puzzle includes sixty puzzle pieces, featuring six special shaped pieces with three spacetastic fruit scents – banana, strawberry and orange. £11.99.

MINTiD Dog-E Ages 6+

The Dog-E comes to life and reveals its unique combination of colourful lights, sounds and personality traits, so no two Dog-E’s are ever the same. Some love playtime, while others are always hungry. Take care of your Dog-E and it will show you its love. It even talks with its tail and uses emotes, icons and messages to communicate, telling you when it’s hungry, when it wants love or when it wants to play. Unlock even more interactive play with Dog-E’s connected app. £89.99.

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Test your reflexes and powers of observation in this fast-paced dexterity game. The Totem sits in the middle of the table, waiting to be claimed but only those with the keenest eyes and quickest reflexes can become the king of the jungle! £15.99.

Sponge Painting Fun

Ages 3+

A fun-filled kit of creativity!

The kit has everything from stencils, paints, brushes and backgrounds. Everything you need to design and create characters and scenes. £20.

Design + Draw Fashionistas Ages 5+

This fun set comes in a zipped keepsake tin case for on-the-go fun. Mix and match characters to create favourite combinations and use the drawing pads to bring the designs to life.

Includes four double-sided coloured pencils and HB pencil with eraser. £16.

KidzLabs Octopus Robotic Claw Ages 5+

The kit has everything you need to assemble the robotic claw. With its flexible design and can pick up all types of objects – just try it and see. £20.

Familiesonline.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas

Christmas toy choices Biggies

Ages 3+

Introducing Biggies! The first-of-itskind SUPER-SIZE mega plush. Use the foot pump inside the box to inflate your mystery character. Watch as your character gets bigger and bigger, until POP, your perfectly huggable plush is revealed – at ten times its original size. Which cool animal will you get – the dog, dragon, rabbit or unicorn?!

Biggies are reusable. Just deflate to store and recreate the experience again and again. Available at Smyths. £19.99.

Ultimate Hero Electronic Fireman Sam Ages 3+

EDURINO

Ultimate Hero Fireman Sam is a large scale, fully articulated action figure, packed with fun features. Measuring 12” tall, Sam has over thirty sound effects and phrases. With working torch, L.E.D Morse Light and radio, raise or lower Sam’s safety helmet visor to change between ordinary day vision... and super special night vision!

Sam comes prepared with tools, a gripping hand to hold his Fire Axe Accessory and an action button which makes his arm move up and down.

He can use the the climbing rope with grapple hook to reach up high and you can use the built-in winding wheel to extend and retract it. Available at Smyths. £29.99.

This playful digital learning system enables meaningful screen time for children. Developed in collaboration with teachers, EDURINO offers a combination of physical and digital learning, with maximum fun. Every starter set includes an ergonomic pen (great for perfecting pen grip) and a real figurine which, when touched to the screen of your device, magically unlocks a particular subject to encourage learning and comprehension via a free app. There are loads of games to choose from, no ads or in-app purchases within the app and extensive parental controls – it’s a whole new digital learning solution for children. More info at www.edurino.co.uk £44.99.

Ages 3+

The 2-in-1 Plush 3D Helmets give kids two different looks. They can choose between the printed graphic or add the plush cover for a 3D effect. The Perrycornio scooter features a plush head for the coolest look and lights in the wheels that are useful for visibility. It’s also foldable, making it perfect to fit into any space and extensible so can grow with children. Available at Toyland. £50.

Ages 4-8

Voxblock Ages 3-12

Immerse young minds in a world of stories with Voxblock, the screen-free audiobook player for kids. Designed for children, with no grown-ups needed, simply pop in the audiobook, press play and go! There’s no need for Wi-Fi, downloads or set-up, Voxblock is ready-to-play straight from the wrapping paper. With hundreds of audio stories to choose from, there's something for everyone. Begin with a Voxblock Starter Pack, which includes a Voxblock player, three stories and a protective bumper. Buy at www.voxblock.co.uk £59.99 Familiesonline.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

K3YRIDERS 2 in 1 3D Perrycornio Plush Helmet & 3 Wheeled Perrycornio Plush Scooter

Miraculous Magic Heroez Reveal Dolls Ages 4+

Miraculous fans can bring the show’s magic of transformation to life with these dolls and transform Marinette into any Superhero. In an unboxing experience full of surprises, simply open the container, add some water and swirl it around to discover Marinette in one of her superhero costumes. Which of her superhero alter egos will you reveal? Ladybug, BunnyX or Rena Rouge? Each doll has a unique outfit from the show and features five points of articulation.

There’s also an additional blind bag.

Add the bag to the container and watch it dissolve to reveal a matching mask, Kwami character and one more themed accessory unique to each costume. Available at Smyths and Amazon. £22.99.

Families Families South South EastEast London London 11 11

WORK

Are you suffering from tech stress?

By Mandy Garner I once asked my son what he thought I did for a living. ‘Stare at the computer all day and then get very cross’ he said. This is the kind of levelling comment that keeps your feet on the ground as a parent. There you are thinking you were doing something exciting that you feel passionately about and all your child sees is someone glued to the computer, getting angry because the screen has frozen and they have minus ten minutes to get everything done before school pick-up.

Tech stress has not eased over time and is something remote workers struggle with more than most, simply because there is no one else to ask for help. I long for someone to come over, press a button or two and bingo, everything works.

But, unless a digital-native child is around (and even they are often nonplussed by work-related things), the main ploy is to rely on what I loosely call workarounds: basically any strategy you can devise to do whatever it is that your computer won’t. This can result in fairly surreal situations, which, when you look back on them seem really quite amusing but at the time are definitely not.

Take the other day. I have just changed my phone. I was after a better deal, having been suckered into getting a more up-to-date iPhone but was bedazzled by the promise of 5G and a special offer. In my house mobile reception is very patchy. One minute you have bars, the next…nada.

The world of work now functions on 2FA which means it sends codes to your phone. Not if there are no bars. I have to run up into the furthest corner of daughter three’s room and dangle the phone out the window to get them. This is not what I call

THE GREAT CHRISTMAS TOY GIVEAWAY

Miraculous Magic Dolls bundle

I had to go to a meeting the other day and do an online call on Zoom half an hour beforehand. As the Zoom audio doesn’t work on my laptop – no idea why – and I can’t access the Zoom app on my phone, I borrowed a laptop and headed to a quiet cafe opposite the place where my next meeting was.

Unfortunately, there was a big graduation ceremony taking place outside the cafe with groups of students and lecturers in gowns thronging the streets. Inside it was quieter and I even had a plug socket to charge the laptop. Then the cafe started playing loud classical music and it began to fill up with people. I found myself having to get very close to the computer to hear what the meeting attendees were saying. I think my colleagues must have basically been looking at my ear for most of the meeting.

Mandy Garner is editor of www.workingmums.co.uk, a job site and community for working parents. Visit the website for more working mum blogs, advice and support and to search for flexible jobs with family-friendly employers.

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12 Families South East London

I didn’t want to stay with Apple, but felt I needed to in order to keep all my photos and videos. But my phone doesn’t recognise my Apple id password. One of its robots has assigned me an icloud.com address with a password which I don’t know because I didn’t even know I had an icloud account. This means I cannot get into any app on my phone, including Zoom and WhatsApp for at least seven days. I can reset my bank password in minutes but Apple takes up to seven days because they are so security conscious. One day they will shut me out of my own (online) life.

By next week, all should be resolved... provided Apple verifies my id, although my phone informs me that my work gmail password is ‘compromised.’ The Apple man told me I should ring google for advice. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Sometimes I think maybe I struggle more with technology due to my age, conforming to all the negative stereotypes. But then I think it really isn’t an age thing. It’s more of a time thing. Time poor people need technology that works intuitively - which means modelling it on a diverse range of customers - and instantly. And they need humans, not robots, to understand their frustrations when it doesn’t.

My Emotions & Me Book 100 available

APPLY at familiesmag.co.uk/go

progress. In any event, I have since been informed that 5G makes no difference to bars. Where are your tech advisers when you need them?

IT’S FREE!

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WHAT’S ON

What’s on Compiled by Robina Cowan

All details are as provided when going to press. However, in case of changed plans, do double-check before setting out.

SPECIAL EVENTS Curling Club at Southbank Centre www.thecurlingclub.com/southbank Fri 13 Oct - Sun 18 Feb Exciting new alpine themed curling pop-up, a great winter sport for families to play together with delicious food, festive music and an après ski vibe.

Lord Mayor’s Show From St Paul’s Cathedral www.lordmayorsshow.london 11 November The Lord Mayor’s Show dates back to the early 13th century, when King John rashly allowed the City of London to appoint its own Mayor. Each year the City of London’s streets are filled with joyous processions, musicians and dancers.

The Independent Schools Show Battersea Evolution SW11 4NJ www.schoolsshow.co.uk 11 & 12 November The world’s largest school open day brings together representatives from across the independent school sector, along with education and parenting experts to help you make informed education decisions for your child.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Hyde Park W2 2UH www.hydeparkwinterwonderland. com 17 November - 1 January The jewel in the crown of London’s festive calendar is filled with thrilling rides, attractions, games, food and drink offerings. Highlights include the giant observation wheel, UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, SantaLand, Cirque Berserk and Zippos Christmas Circus.

Mum2mum Market Various venues www.mum2mummarket.co.uk 18 November in Welling 2 December in Bromley Nearly new baby and children’s clothes, toys, books and baby equipment.

Wishmas The Old Bauble Factory Waterloo SE1 7AD www.wishmas.co.uk 14 November - 7 January In an enchanted realm, wishes come true. Take a walk through magical rooms where you will meet robins, wishkeepers and Father Christmas, playing your part to ensure that no wish is ever forgotten.

Christmas at Kent Life Kent Life Heritage Farm Park www.kentlife.org.uk 25 & 26 November, 2, 3, 9, 10 & 15-24 December Get set for some Christmas magic with Father Christmas’s magical grotto and a sleighful of activities including Elf school, gingerbread decorating, Jingle Express farm rides and Christmas movies.

14 Families South East London

Greenwich Market Grotto Greenwich Market SE10 9HZ https://tinyurl.com/ynnznb2j 15 November - 23 December Santa and his Hospice helpers can’t wait to welcome children for a magical experience this Christmas.

Run in support of Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice.

Christmas Markets www.mypopupevents.co.uk 3 December, Upper Norwood Library Hub SE19 9 December, St Barnabas Church Hall SE21 Shop for handmade gifts, art and craft, clothing and tasty treats. Plus a ticketed Christmas puppet show: Pinocchio, by the Magical Paper Theatre.

Whippersnappers’ Winter Wonderland College Lodge, Dulwich Park SE21 7BQ www.whippersnappers.org December dates An enchanting, immersive experience that will leave your children spellbound, featuring elves, workshops and Father Christmas.

Kingdom of Winter Excel London E16 1XL www.kingdomofwinter.com 8 December - 7 January A brand-new destination of fun awaits visitors with a host of attractions including a winter themed circus, ice skating, fairground rides, an immersive ice expedition trail, an alpine-style Christmas market and a range of festive food and drink.

THEATRE & SHOWS Blackheath Halls Lee Road SE3 9RQ www.blackheathhalls.com 18 November Midsummer Night’s Dream A dreamy adventure full of love, fairies, puppets, original music and ridiculousness. Ages 6+.

9 December Teach Rex Live Velociraptor Show An interactive journey filled with life-size dinosaurs, music and effects.

22-23 December The Nutcracker Let’s All Dance delivers its family festive favourite, alive with gorgeous costumes, sumptuous music and fabulous dancing.

National Theatre Upper Ground SE1 9PX www.nationaltheatre.org.uk 7 November - 27 January Roald Dahl’s The Witches Everything you know about witches is wrong. Forget the pointy hats and broomsticks: they’re the most dangerous creatures on earth. This rip-roaring musical version of Roald Dahl’s timeless tale is filled with wit, daring and heart. Ages 8+.

The Snowman™ at Peacock Theatre Shakespeare’s Globe New Globe Walk SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com

Theatre Peckham Havil Street SE5 7SB www.theatrepeckham.co.uk

8 December - 7 January Hansel and Gretel This beautifully epic new version of The Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage will transform the Globe into a winter woodland. Ages 5+.

Greenwich Theatre Crooms Hill SE10 8ES www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk 23 November - 7 January Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don’t miss the fairest pantomime of all!

South London Theatre Norwood High Street SE27 9NS www.southlondontheatre.co.uk 12-21 December Beauty and the Beast The theft of a single rose has monstrous consequences for Beauty and her father, because this is no ordinary rose. This timeless story is sure to surprise, delight and enchant.

The Broadway Theatre Catford Road SE6 4RU www.broadwaytheatre.org.uk 13-31 December Jack and the Beanstalk Jack, his mum and their cow Caroline live in the Kingdom of Lewishfarm and life is tough; the people are poorer and the rich are getting richer. Packed with magic beans, slapstick routines, songs, laughs and silliness galore.

The Old Vic The Cut SE1 8NB www.oldvictheatre.com 11 November - 6 January A Christmas Carol Mince pies, music and merriment!

Starring Christopher Eccleston as Scrooge, Matthew Warchus’ big-hearted staging immerses the audience in this beloved festive favourite. Ages 8+.

The Albany Douglas Way SE8 4AG www.thealbany.org.uk 2-24 December The Light Princess A joyful re-imagining of a classic fairytale featuring an upbeat electronic score, innovative technical wizardry, gorgeous puppetry, bears and... turnips!

Ages 3-7.

5-24 December RAPUNZEL Theatre Peckham is back with another Christmas show from 5 to 24 December. Theatre Peckham presents RAPUNZEL, a fun-filled musical-inspired, pantoesque remix of a classic tale. RAPUNZEL is a magical hair story, set in a hairdresser’s in Peckham, which weaves a tale about individuality and empowerment. Tickets start at £7.50. For more information and to book, call 020 7708 5401, or visit www.theatrepeckham.co.uk Peacock Theatre Portugal Street WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com 18 November - 30 December The Snowman™ Based on Raymond Briggs’ beloved children’s book and the subsequent animated film, The Snowman™ is a timeless story transformed for the stage with dazzling and whimsical sets, dancing and music performed by a live orchestra.

Unicorn Theatre Tooley Street SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com 11 November - 31 December The Bolds Julian Clary’s adaptation of his bestselling book returns this Christmas after its successful 2021 debut. The Bolds may seem like an ordinary family living on a typical British street but there’s a unique twist—they’re hyenas in disguise! Join Mr. and Mrs. Bold and their twins, Betty and Bobby, as they balance work, school and friendships while keeping their beastly secret hidden. With live music and songs by Julian Clary and Simon Wallace, The Bolds promises hearty laughter and celebrates the joy of embracing the extraordinary within the ordinary.

Don’t miss this extraordinary treat for the whole family this festive season. Ages 6+.

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WHAT’S ON Royal Observatory Greenwich Blackheath Avenue SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory 11 November Diwali Special A brand-new show which explores how the Hindu calendar links to the Sun and Moon and how the skies are used to work out the date for Diwali.

The Light Princess Deptford Albany

17 November - 31 December The Wolf, The Duck and The Mouse Sometimes friendship can be found in the darkest and most unusual of places and being eaten up by a wolf isn’t actually that bad. Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen’s bestselling picture book returns to the Unicorn stage. Ages 3-7.

Southbank Centre Southbank SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk 3 & 17 November, 1 & 15 December Rug Rhymes What rhymes with rug? National Poetry Library puppets Federico and Firebird can’t wait to tell you at a session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories. Ages 0-5.

10 November EFG London Jazz Festival Concert The Tots Tunes Family Band presents an exciting repertoire of world, folk and new music, featuring two cellos, two violins, percussion and vocals. Ages 0-10.

Bromley Churchill Theatre High Street Bromley BR1 1HA www.churchilltheatre.co.uk 2-31 December Cinderella Packed with traditional pantomime ingredients, this Cinderella features laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses.

9-23 December Puss in Boots Filled with original music, interactive fun and larger than life characters - the perfect Christmas treat for the whole family. Ages 2+.

Royal Albert Hall Kensington Gore SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com 10 December My Christmas Orchestral Adventure Conductor Tim has lost his Christmas spirit before the wold’s biggest concert. Help Tim’s brother bring back Christmas cheer in time to meet Father Christmas.

St Martin’s Theatre West Street WC2H 9NZ www.stmartinstheatre.co.uk 2 December - 7 January The Smartest Giant in Town George wishes he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. So when he sees a new shop selling giantsized clothes, he decides it’s time for a new look. A heart-warming Familiesonline.co.uk

tale about friendship and helping those in need is brought to life in a musical, puppet-filled adventure.

Little Angel Theatre Dagmar Passage N1 2DN www.littleangeltheatre.com Until 19 November Big Bad Me Think you know the story of Red Riding Hood? Think again! Hear the real story, never heard before, of the kind and hungry wolf who strayed from the path and lost his friends. Ages 6+.

18 November - 4 February Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book A musical adaptation of the bestselling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, featuring the bookloving Charlie, a pirate, puppets and enchanting songs. Ages 3-8.

Cutty Sark King William Walk SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark 4 & 5 November, 2 & 3 December Family Fun Weekend Step aboard and set sail on a fantastic family adventure. Take part in creative workshops, meet characters from the ship’s past and sing along with the resident sea shanty singers.

Dulwich Picture Gallery Gallery Road SE21 7AD www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk 16 December Family Festival: Winter Light Visit the gallery for a festival inspired by the current Rubens exhibition, which explores his use of colour, light and movement.

Eltham Palace Court Yard SE9 5QE www.english-heritage.org.uk 1 December - 1 January Christmas at Eltham With a host of light installations designed to fit in with the natural surroundings, feel the Christmas spirit by immersing yourself in a world of seasonal sparkle and

festive cheer.

National Maritime Museum Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/nationalmaritime-museum 11 November Finding Diwali Celebrate the Festival of Light with a day of arts, performance, workshops and light shows.

25 November Polar Family Day Meet polar scientists and discover more about the polar regions. The day will include workshops and expert Q&A sessions. All ages.

Hever Castle Kent TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk 18 November - 1 January Christmas at Hever Witness the enchantment of the Castle, gardens and lake festooned with fabulous colours and twinkling lights, capturing the spirit of Christmas. Entertainment includes fairground rides, festive shopping and workshops.

London Transport Museum Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk 24 November - 4 January Christmas at the Museum Jump aboard Santa’s Routemasterinspired sleigh for some Christmas cheer. Festive activities will include holiday crafts, a selfie wall and fun family trail.

Barbican Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk

WINTER ICE RINKS

29 December Horrible Histories: Horrible Christmas From Victorian villains to Medieval monks, Puritan parties to Tudor treats, find out what happens when Christmas comes under threat from a jolly man dressed in red. Ages 4+.

Until 24 Feb Canary Wharf E14 www.icerinkcanarywharf. co.uk

17 Nov - 8 Jan Queen’s House, Greenwich SE10 www.rmg.co.uk

10 Nov - 7 Jan Battersea Power Station SW11 www.batterseapower station.co.uk

17 Nov - 7 Jan Hampton Court Palace www.hamptoncourtpapace icerink.co.uk

10 Nov - 7 Jan Westfield Shepherd’s Bush W12 7GF www.westfield.com

17 Nov - 1 Jan Hyde Park Winter Wonderland W2 www.hydeparkwinter wonderland.com

Bach to Baby Various dates and venues www.bachtobaby.com Critically-acclaimed classical concerts for babies and their grownups. Outstanding musicians put on exhilarating performances where babies can ‘join in’ with as much noise as they like! Check the website for upcoming dates.

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Various venues www.byobcomedy.com A funny, friendly afternoon of top comedy, where baby can come too and join in with the rumpus. Shows feature a new line up of comedians each month with two acts plus a compere. Ages: grownups plus under 12 months. Check the website for upcoming dates.

Get your skates and put some colour in everyone’s cheeks in beautiful fresh air surroundings

15 Nov - 14 Jan Somerset House WC2 www.somersethouse.org.uk

8 Dec - 7 Jan Kingdom of Winter, Excel E16 1XL www.kingdomofwinter.com

www.globalcamps.co.uk

MUSEUMS & MONUMENTS West Norwood Picture House Norwood High Street SE27 9JU www.picturehouses.com Sit back and enjoy a big-screen film in a cinema that welcomes families.

Sessions include Watch with Baby, Toddler Time, autism-friendly and a Kids Club.

Ofsted registered Holiday Camp for ages 4-12 Families South East London 15

Make reindeer cupcakes

Families asked Emily Leary, multi-award-winning food, lifestyle and parenting writer, presenter, photographer and author of A Mummy Too (www.amummytoo.co.uk) to share her scrumptious chocolate reindeer cupcake recipe with us. Fun and easy to make, you’ll love the chocolate sponge, rich chocolate frosting and the simple toppings which make the cute Christmas reindeer faces.

C an ut o d k ut " eep

You will need: For the buttercream: 400g (14.1oz) icing sugar (powdered sugar) 200g (7.1oz) slightly salted butter, softened 75g (2.6oz) cocoa powder (dutch processed) 100ml (3.4 floz) whole milk Decorations: 12 red Smarties or M&Ms and 12 giant milk chocolate buttons 24 candy eyes and 24 pretzels

175g (6.2oz) slightly salted butter, cubed and room temperature 200g (7.1oz) white caster sugar (superfine sugar) 3 medium free-range eggs, room temperature 125ml (4.2 floz) whole milk, room temperature 200g (7.1oz) self-raising white flour 40g (1.4oz) cocoa powder (dutch processed)

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Preheat the oven to 180C (160C fan). Put the caster sugar and softened butter in a large mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer or by hand until creamy.

Crack the eggs into the bowl.

Add the milk. Beat again until just combined.

Fold everything together until the batter is smooth and even.

Line a 12-hole muffin tray with muffin cases. Divide the batter evenly between them, making sure to level off so that the cupcakes rise evenly.

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Bake for about 20 minutes or until risen and firm. A skewer pushed into the centre of a cupcake towards the middle of the tray should come out clean. Transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

Make the buttercream.

Put the softened butter in a large bowl and whisk until creamy.

Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a French tip or open star nozzle and pipe tall swirls on top of the cake, retaining a little frosting to use as glue in the final steps.

Add the reindeer details.

Place a giant chocolate button on top of each cupcake, just below the centre. Dab the back of each Smartie with a little frosting and fix each on to the centre of a chocolate button.

Position two candy eyes above each chocolate button. Finally, break one side of each of the pretzels (or leave them whole) and push them into the frosted tops of each of the cupcakes to form antlers.

16 Families South East London

Sift in the flour and cocoa powder.

Sift in the icing sugar, cocoa powder then add the milk and hot water. Start whisking together, slowly at first and then building speed once the icing sugar is incorporated.

It will take several minutes of whisking to get a light and smooth frosting.

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