Families Upon Thames January/February 2024 Digital

FR EE

Upon Thames

IN THIS ISSUE

Education What’s On Parenting

January/February 2024

Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 1 Familiesonline.co.uk

NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL

Nursery Places Available

An Independent Co-ed Prep School and Nursery for children aged 3-13

ISI rated EXCELLENT

Availability may be limited in certain age groups or booking patterns

FOR CHILDREN AGED 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS

OPEN 7.00AM TO 6.30PM

Fun is an essential ingredient at Knowle Green Day Nursery and Preschool where the care and education opportunities for each and every child are as extraordinary as our colleagues who provide them.

Welcome Morning and School Tours 19th Jan, 1st March, 19th April, 24th May Wrap around care 7:30am-6pm | Holiday club | School bus Non-selective entry at Nursery or Reception | 11+ and 13+ offers to range of top selective schools www.newlandhouse.net

0208 865 1305

Knowle Green Day Nursery, The Pavilion, Knowle Green, Staines-upon-Thames, Middlesex TW18 1AJ

We look forward to hearing from you

admissions@newlandhouse.net

Waldegrave Park, Twickenham, TW1 4QT Families upon Thames.indd 1

Please call 01784 464141 or email knowle.green@childbase.com www.childbasepartnership.com

05/12/2023 15:08:02

Meet our garden’s up-and-coming stars this winter.

THE G R E AT E ST S H OW IN EARTH L I V E AT W I S L E Y

2 January/February

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CONTENTS

Welcome

In this issue

Happy New Year to everyone! We hope this year is happy and healthy for you all.

4

Cheer up the dark and dreary days of winter and keep the kids busy with our selection of great activity pages in this issue. Kids can learn to draw better, get more out of music with our great app selection, cook up a storm in the kitchen or do some exciting science experiments.

Looking ahead to half term, we’ve some great suggestions for family walks and, whilst planning ahead, find early ideas for World Book Day costumes and check out the great family festivals taking place around the UK this year.

Don’t miss our EZLite Graco Stroller and National Geographic Science Kits giveaways either. By applying, you’ll also ensure you receive this digital magazine to your inbox every two months.

Simple pancake recipe for kids 5 Education 10 Early years 12 Clubs & classes 15 What’s On 21 Parenting 22 Top recipe books for kids 23 Activities 25 Giveaways 27 World Book Day costumes 28 Out and about 30 Family festivals

Get in touch Competition winners from our September/October issue Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list HERE

An independent school and nursery for children aged 6 months to 11 years.

Non-selective for entry into Reception Consistently impressive 11+ results September 2024 entry: Limited places for girls and boys to join Reception and Year 1 September 2025 entry: Reception registrations now open with first 25 received guaranteed a place

Scan and Register

185 Hampton Road, Twickenham TW2 5NQ | 020 8977 2523 | admissions@themallschool.org.uk | www.themallschool.org.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 3

How to make

Shrove Tuesday takes place on Tuesday, 13 February this year.

Make some delicious but simple pancakes with the kids to celebrate. Just download this great recipe provided by our friends at PlanBee

DOWNLOAD HERE 4 January/February

Familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

The importance of art in the curriculum

By Laura Steele In an increasingly busy school timetable, art can often be overlooked in favour of the core subjects. Yet, according to The Tate: ‘Schools that integrate arts into their curriculum show improved student performance in maths, English, critical thinking and verbal skills’.

Art is beneficial to children’s development in so many ways.

Imagination, self-expression and creativity

Self-confidence, self-discipline and resilience Art is less prescribed than many other subjects, meaning children can often choose the direction that they take.

Have you ever watched a child who is completely absorbed in drawing READ MORE or painting? Their full concentration is on creating something from nothing, using only their imagination and creativity to express a thought, feeling or idea. This is a skill that we should want to nurture in all children.

More than many other subjects, art fosters experimentation. It gives children the freedom and choice to create something that is unique to them. Not only is this a healthy outlet for self-expression but in the world of work, skills like creativity and innovation are highly valued by many employers.

‘Art has the role in education of helping children become like themselves instead of more like everyone else.’ Sydney Gurewitz Clemens, Consultant in Early Childhood Education Familiesonline.co.uk

JUNIOR MENUHINS

• Baby Menuhins 6 months to 4 years • Mini Menuhins 4 to 7 years • Little Menuhins 7 to 11 years Weekly music classes incorporating musicianship, mindfulness and yoga, as well as group and individual instrumental lessons for children aged 4 years old and above.

Find out more and book classes online at: MENUHINSCHOOL.CO.UK/junior-menuhins

January/February 5

EDUCATION

Best new books for kids from around the world

We asked our friends at Parrot Street Book Club for their suggestions.

Too Small Tola Makes It Count

By Atinuke Three fun stories transport readers to bustling Lagos. Ages 5+.

Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear

By Trang Nguyen & Jeet Zdung Vietnam-based graphic novel adventure.

Ages 8+.

One Chance Dance

By Efua Traoré Heartwarming story of friendship and dance set in Nigeria. Ages 8+.

6 January/February

The Midnighters

By Hana Tooke A magical adventure with a mysterious, gothic-inspired setting.

Ages 8+.

The Last Mapmaker

By Christina Soontornvat A Thai-inspired, highseas, fantasy adventure.

Ages 8+.

The Song Walker

By Zillah Bethel Explore the Australian Outback in this story about friendship.

Ages 8+.

Sona Sharma Wish Me Luck

By Chitra Soundar Warm and colourful illustrated chapter book set in India. Ages 5+.

Momo Arashima Steals the Sword of the Wind

By Misa Sugiura A thrilling, Japaneseinspired fantasy adventure. Ages 8+.

The Boy Who Saved a Bear

By Nizrana Farook A gripping Sri Lankan adventure for animal lovers. Ages 8+.

Familiesonline.co.uk

An Independent Co-educational Day School in Hampton for pupils aged 4-13

Open Mornings Thursday 1st February Wednesday 20th March "This is a truly happy, nurturing school that challenges children at the right levels in a calm, safe environment."

Good Schools Guide

Book your place today For more information please visit www.twickenhamprep.org.uk

Nurturing Inspiring Achieving Minds Spirit Success

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A PLACE IN RECEPTION 2024?

To find out more about life at Staines Prep, join us for our Open Morning on

FRIDAY 1ST MARCH 2024 or book a personal tour by contacting our admissions team.

An independent day school and nursery for children aged 3-11 years

01784 450909 | www.stainesprep.co.uk | admissions@stainesprep.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 7

EDUCATION

Helping your child with spelling Does your child struggle with spelling? Take a look at some recommended resources that may help them improve.

10 Minutes A Day Spelling Fun Teaches in bite-sized chunks with exciting games and tests.

Ages 5-7.

Bond SATs Skills: Spelling & Vocabulary

Builds core knowledge of the words expected in key assessments.

Ages 8-9.

First Words Deluxe

Your Spelling

Match and Spell

Wordsearch Junior

ios ios Ideal for toddlers starting Focusses on words to master letter sounds. required for KS1 and KS2 Ages 3+.

SATs. Ages 5-11.

Clever spelling game can be played solo or as a family. Ages 5+.

8 January/February

Fun game - start with pictures and progress to words. Ages 4+.

Usborne Practice Book

120 spelling activities which get progressively harder. Ages 7+.

DoodleSpell

ios & android Tailors exercises to suit a child’s strengths and weaknesses. Ages 5-11.

Bananagrams

Fast, fun word game build words with lettered tiles. Ages 7+.

Familiesonline.co.uk

A perfect blend of highly nurturing, personalised education with outstanding academic results.

Book your place at our open morning on Friday 1st March 2024

24 – 26 Cumberland Road, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3HQ www.kewcollegeprep.com

“

THE GOLDEN TICKET TO A BRIGHT FUTURE

“

The Good Schools Guide

Making your mark on the world begins on day one at Sir William Perkins’s School.

Every student is supported to pursue their passions, whilst working to the highest educational standards.

An independent day school for girls aged 11 to 18.

Book your place at an open event at swps.org.uk Guildford Road, Cherstey, KT16 9BN Tel. 01932 574 900 admissions@swps.org.uk

Familiesonline.co.uk

The Good Schools Guide

January/February 9

EARLY YEARS

The Mall Nursery achieves 10/10 rating

Reasons to take your baby swimming

The Mall Nursery in Twickenham opened in September 2022 with provision for up to eighty children ages 6 months to 4 years. The nursery has already achieved a 10/10 rating on www. daynurseries.co.uk and was a finalist for New Nursery of the Year at the Nursery Management Today awards.

Thinking that it's starting to get too cold to swim with your little one? Think again! There are so many reasons to continue swimming through winter.

98% of nursery parents say they would recommend it to friends and 68% feel it has exceeded all expectations. Parents say: ‘The outdoor space is just mindblowing’ and ‘My daughter has been at The Mall Nursery since it opened. It is one of the best decisions we have made for our family. The staff are amazing, so friendly and welcoming.’

Children attend The Mall Nursery for a minimum of three days a week and are all automatically offered a Reception place at the Mall School. Fees include weekly indoor swimming lesson in pool on the main school site. Register early to guarantee preferred days/ start date.

More information HERE. 10 January/February

Water Babies classes use repetition which helps babies and toddlers understand key safety skills and grow their water confidence. Swimming also has many physical benefits so you can keep your little one active and fit, whilst enjoying a special opportunity for some skin-to-skin bonding time.

In the winter months, you’re more likely to be at home indoors where there are fewer opportunities for social interaction for you and your child. Swimming lessons are a fantastic way to combat this.

There’s also a real advantage in keeping your baby or toddler’s skill levels up by maintaining the routine of going to lessons.

Find out more about local swimming classes with Water Babies in Addlestone, Chessington, Cobham, Kingston, Shepperton, Chertsey, Surbiton and further afield in Surrey HERE. Familiesonline.co.uk

paediatric Acupuncture for babies to big kids paediatric acupuncture is a safe, non-invasive, non-drug, Effective natural ancient therapy. it has been practiced in china for a thousand years and it helps boost a child's immune system and support their well-being development

Confidence starts in the

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11/12/2023

water

10:55

We teach the lifesaving skill of learning how to swim - taking each child on a journey of aquatic discovery, adventure and purposeful play. We create an experience where little ones can unlock new challenges as their skills develop and uncover missions around core aquatic skills, swimming, and water safety milestones. It’s all about igniting imaginations as they learn.

picky eater

Helps with

abdominal pain bloating vomiting constipation bedwetting

Adhd asd anxiety depression no desire for school

poor appetite eating disorder

sport injury sleeping problem cough cold

Join us anytime! Classes available now.

When you’re ready, we’re ready.

01932 227428 underthewaves@waterbabies.co.uk

Tel: 07830676274 //www.healingtouchacu.co.uk //angelina.he515@gmail.com

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Premium independent Paediatric & adolescent services

Weybridge All types of developmental needs addressed in a happy environment 07551 437525 info@happyslothahp.co.uk www.happyslothahp.co.uk

Childcare & Early Years Recruitment Specialists Specialising in the recruitment of Nannies, Housekeepers, Mothers Helps and maternity.

Helping with all permanent, temp, full or part time roles. Covering all of London, Surrey and Berkshire Tel; 0207 1270748 Email; alice@tigerlilychildcare.co.uk Web; www.tigerlilychildcare.co.uk

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EZLite Graco stroller Giveaway A perfect, light weight stroller for families Easy to control and manoeuvre Newborn to age 3

APPLY HERE

Worth £50 T&Cs apply January/February 11

CLASSES & HOLIDAY CAMPS

Boost your child’s confidence in 2024 with a FREE Perform class The new year is a great time to start something new and Perform is offering every child a free trial class to help them shine this spring. With two brilliant new themes incorporating confidencebuilding fun, classes for children ages 4 to 7 will join a high-energy adventure to the Wild West while kids ages 7 to 12 will enjoy a dancefloor-filling adaptation of Snow White, in Killa Queen.

Classes are packed with confidence-boosting games which focus on developing the 4 Cs - confidence, communication,

coordination and concentration using drama, dance and singing. At the end of each term, children will take part in a show-stopping final performance for family and friends.

Classes take place in Brentford, Esher, Hampton, Kew, Kingston, Richmond, St Margaret's, Surbiton, Twickenham, Walton and Weybridge.

Book a no-obligation FREE trial HERE. Join Perform and The Ice Queen this February half-term!

www.suzannaraymondschoolofdance.com

Free

Trial

Class

CLASSES IN TEDDINGTON & HAMPTON

Established over 45 years in Teddington, Suzanna Raymond School of Dance continues to offer a high standard of Classical Ballet, Modern, Tap & Jazz for children of all ages.

Three days of Frozen-themed fun awaits your child in a glittering drama, dance and singing adventure with Elsa, Ana and friends. Ending with a dazzling performance, this is the coolest half-term treat going!

For children ages 4 to 10, this half term course takes place between 12 and 14 February at The Crossway Centre in Twickenham.

Book HERE.

Contact: info@suzannaraymondschoolofdance.com / 07968 598 507

12 January/February

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CLASSES & HOLIDAY CAMPS

#EnjoyEncourageBelieve at Danceforce

Danceforce School of Dancing is a thriving and successful school for ages 18 months to adult.

Muddy Boots February Half Term Camp 12 to 16 February Cobham Fun-filled activity camps for children 3 to 8 years.

9am to 4pm (extended time available)

Early bird £41 a day

Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ Keeping siblings and friends together regardless of age

www.muddybootscamps.co.uk

Clubland Holiday Clubs Fun and affordable holiday clubs for primary school aged children What’s on offer Arts, crafts and cookery • Sports and games Bouncy castle, discos and day trips February Half Term: 12-16 Feb 2024

Claygate Primary School, Esher

Exceptional Value • Outstanding Quality • Unlimited Fun

Classes are available in a diverse range of styles including ballet, modern, tap, jazz, contemporary, acro and musical theatre and students can also take part in performances and gain recognition for their hard work through RAD and ISTD dance exams.

Danceforce is dedicated to providing an exceptional quality of dance instruction and specialist training, which may explain why it is now one of the longest running dance schools in the Kingston area.

Principal, Carol Winter took over in 1997 and is passionate about working with great teachers and offering the best possible experience from the very first stages of learning. ‘Whilst dance is fun, it is also physically demanding and parents should take great care to send their child to professional, qualified teachers’ she comments.

More information HERE.

www.clubland-playscheme.com

Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 13

ASK ABOUT OUR TWO WEEK TRIAL

ENROLLING NOW FOR NEXT TERM Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

CHERTSEY, ADDLESTONE 0772 517 6102 stagecoach.co.uk/chertsey

STAINES 07802 800633 stagecoach.co.uk/staines

HINCHLEY WOOD AND ESHER 01372 238238 stagecoach.co.uk/hinchleywood

WEYBRIDGE 07939 208234 stagecoach.co.uk/weybridge

RICHMOND 020 8332 6741 stagecoach.co.uk/richmond TEDDINGTON & TWICKENHAM 0208 979 5276 stagecoach.co.uk/ teddington stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham

Creative Courage For Life®

SUN 21 JANUARY 3PM

SUN 4 FEBRUARY 2PM & 3.30PM

WED 14 — FRI 16 FEBRUARY 1.30PM & 3PM

SUN 25 FEBRUARY 3PM

FAMILY FOLK SHOW WITH MEGSON

BABY BROADWAY — BABY KNEES UP

SNUG AND GRUB CATCH A BUG!

BELONGINGS

Organic, authentic and fun folk concerts for big and little music connoisseurs.

A zany, interactive family event with bubbles, puppets and plenty of singing.

A wonderfully wiggly adventure for all the family.

(0–8YRS)

(0–7YRS)

(3–8YRS)

(7–11YRS)

Sometimes you have to find the courage to be you.

BOOK NOW! watermans.org.uk 14 January/February

Familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

Plants before Time at RHS Garden Wisley

Painshill Live Music Lates return in 2024

From 3 February to 10 March, step inside the Glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley and be transported back millions of years with the new Houseplant Takeover – Plants Before Time exhibition.

An exciting new line up of tribute bands, appealing to all musical tastes, is coming to Painshill Live Music LATES this summer. Summer LATES offer the chance to enjoy a perfect evening, listening and dancing to a live band in the beautiful surroundings of Painshill's tree lined amphitheatre.

The Painshill landscape will be open to explore from 5.30pm to 9pm (last entry 8pm). Take in the spectacular views, soak up the atmosphere and explore the follies whilst the sun sets.

Discover the magic of the Crystal Grotto in the evenings. Food and drink available or bring a picnic.

Music begins: 7pm to 7.30pm.

Bands and dates: 19 June Rick Parfitt Jr Band; 20 June Absolute Bowie; 26 June The Rat Pack Tribute; 27 June Abba Revival; 3 July Oasish; 4 July Boot Led Zeppelin; 10 July T Rextasy; 11 July Genesis Connected Book early to avoid missing out on your rock and roll evening!

More information and tickets HERE.

Pick up a trail booklet and travel through time to discover fun facts about incredible and fascinating plants; listen carefully and keep a look out for weird and wonderful fossils and the footprints of creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago.

The Glasshouse is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3:45pm (last entry 3:15pm) and Saturday to Sunday 9.30am to 3:45pm (last entry 3:15pm). Normal garden admission applies.

There’s plenty more for families to enjoy at RHS Garden Wisley this winter too. Wrap up warm and discover what makes winter gardens extra special and let the kids burn off energy in the Back to Nature play area!

More info HERE. Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 15

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.

Various dates in Jan and Feb Bring Your Baby events Fun, brain-stimulating, day time pub quiz socials for parents of babies and young children.

24 Jan & 28 Feb The Anglers, Teddington 8 Feb The Cabbage Patch, Twickenham 12 Feb The Bear, Esher 13 Feb Kew Gardens Hotel Every Tue Storytelling for Preschoolers at Landmark Arts Centre Art, yoga and musical storytelling for ages 2-4.

Every Tue to Fri Winter Warmer Activities at Museum of Richmond Drop-in for some FREE cosy crafts from 1pm weekday and Saturdays.

Every Thu Story & Rhyme Time at The Alligator’s Mouth, Richmond Drop in session with new picture books and traditional rhymes performed by staff. Ages 0-4.

Every Sun Junior Parkrun FREE 2k event for ages 4-14 at Bushy Park, Latchmere, Hanworth, Kingston, Osterley, Surbiton & Twickenham.

16 January/February

From Sat 6 Jan Saturday Art Club at Riverhouse Walton FREE fortnightly art club by age group from 6+.

Enrolment required.

Sat 20 Jan Magical Family Concert at Cobham Free School Join Woking Symphony Orchestra for a fab programme of exciting tunes. Try out some instruments too!

Young Archaeology Club at Chertsey Museum A group for 8-16s to learn and get hands on with the past.

Sat 20 Jan & Wed 14 Feb Depot Family Tours at London Transport Museum Acton Depot Exclusively for family groups to uncover the stories in the special vehicles in the collection.

Sat 27 Jan Big Garden Birdwatch at Marble Hill Grab your binoculars and join in this brilliant appreciation of nature.

Fri 2 Feb & Fri 16 Feb Museum Monkeys at Chertsey Museum Join Charlie the Chimp for singing, stories and crafts for under 5s.

Sat 3 Feb Museum Makes at Chertsey Museum FREE drop-in craft session for all the family.

Sat 3 Feb– Sun 10 March House Plant Takeover – Plants before Time at RHS Garden Wisley Step inside the Glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley and be transported back millions of years. Pick up a trail booklet and discover fun facts about incredible plants and fossils and spot the footprits of pre-historic creatures.

Sat 3 Feb-Sun 3 Mar Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens A celebration of vibrant flora inside the conservatory to brighten up the winter months.

Sat 10 – Sun 18 Feb Half term fun at London Museum of Water & Steam Interactive storytelling sessions, hands on art & craft and make a ‘climate change pledge’ artwork.

Tue 13 Feb Family Arts and Crafts at Marble Hill Explore your creative side with painting, drawing and making models. Booking required.

Familiesonline.co.uk

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.

Tues 13 & Thurs 15 Feb River Thames Boat Project Half Term Fun, Kingston Riverside Indoor activities for ages 5 to 11 on a historic barge.

Morning and afternoon sessions.

BOOKING NOW

Wed 19 Jun-Thu 11 Jul Painshill Live Music LATES Summer 2024 Enjoy the very best tribute bands, appealing to a wide range of tastes, at Painshill this summer. Listen and Tue 13-Fri 16 Feb dance to a live band in Love in Richmond the beautiful surroundings Workshops at Museum of of Painshill's tree lined Richmond amphitheatre.

Discover great love stories in Richmond, then make CHILDREN’S some love tokens and THEATRE cards to take home.

DORKING HALLS Wed 14 Feb Pine Cone Bird Feeders Jurassic Earth 3 Feb at Marble Hill State-of-the-art, Build a pine cone feeder animatronic, life-like for the birds in the dinosaurs in an interactive grounds. Booking required. and exciting story-telling show. Ages 3+.

Thu 15 Feb Bug Hotel Building at The Amazing Bubble Man Marble Hill 13 Feb Help construct insect Shrieks of laughter and hotels for the garden gasps of amazement for all at Marble Hill. Booking ages. required.

The Tiger Who Came to Sat 16 Feb Tea 5-6 Mar Family House Tour at Delightful family show; Marble Hill packed with oodles of Go on a tour past historic magic, sing-a-long songs and artistic treasures and and clumsy chaos. learn the history of Marble Hill. Booking required.

THE ESHER THEATRE Princess Live 12-13 Feb All singing, all dancing, hour long concert show.

All ages.

Familiesonline.co.uk

THE EXCHANGE, TWICKENHAM Bring Your Own Baby Comedy 17 Jan Relax and have a good laugh at the best comedians in the UK, without needing childcare.

Comedy Club 4 Kids 18 Feb Hilarious comedy club suitable for children and adults alike.

LYRIC THEATRE, HAMMERSMITH Groove into the Woods 13 Jan An exciting, jazz and funk fuelled show. Ages 3-7.

Florence Nightingale & the Light of Life 20 Jan Join Florence Nightingale and her little owl Athena on this wonderful adventure. Ages 3+.

The Witch & The Egg 27 Jan One performer and a flock of shadow puppets tell an engaging and heartwarming story.

Ages 3-9.

In the Dead of the Night 3 Feb Spooky and heartfelt story told through original songs, puppetry and a dash of silliness. Ages 3+.

January/February 17

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.

Luna Loves Library Day Musical 10 Feb Join Luna and Dad as they discover magic, mystery, laughter and sadness through stories. Ages 3+.

Can Bears Ski? 13-17 Feb Stunning illustrations, puppetry and music. Ages 3+.

The Three Bears 24 Feb Bring your bears for an adventure in the woods, with original music and puppets. Ages 0-6.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland 2 Mar Journey down the rabbit hole into a timeless world of wondrous fantasy.

Ages 3+.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE Sing-a-Long-a Matilda 13 Jan The host will teach dance moves, show how to use free props and get you singing along. PG.

of self-acceptance. Ages 3-7.

RIVERHOUSE BARN, WALTON ON THAMES

Tidy 10 Feb-24 Mar With beautiful puppets, original music and a touch of silliness, this playful story will delight. Ages 3-7.

Breathe 16 Feb Beautifully realised through a combination of puppetry, detailed sets and live camera work. Ages 5+.

PLOT17 31 Jan-4 Feb An interactive performance using spoken words, lyrics, visuals and Djing. Ages 7-12.

WATERMANS THEATRE, BRENTFORD

You are the Sun 7-11 Feb Combining the joy of gentle classical singing and sensory play. Ages 0-2.

Remarkable Rhythm 1418 Feb A dance theatre show.

Ages 7-12.

Romeo and Juliet 2 Mar14 Apr Shakespeare’s famous story is re-told through rap, rhythms, and beautiful harmonies. Ages 9-12.

Family Folk Show with Megson 21 Jan, 3pm Organic, authentic and fun folk concerts for big and little music connoisseurs!

Ages 0-8.

Baby Broadway - Baby Knees Up 4 Feb 2pm & 3.30pm A good old-fashioned East End knees up. A zany, interactive family event with bubbles, puppets and plenty of singing. Ages 0-7.

Snug and Bug Catch a Grub! 14-16 Feb, 1.30pm & 3pm A wonderfully wiggly family puppet show RICHMOND THEATRE adventure for all the family. Join Garlic Theatre Ministry of Science Live Ministry of Science Live for this funny, bug-tastic 10 Feb 21 Jan adventure, with clowning, Dive deep into the world of Dive deep into the world of a beautifully crafted set, science. Ages 6+. science. Ages 6+. colourful puppets and foot tapping music. Ages 3-8.

POLKA THEATRE, Storytime with Little WIMBLEDON Supernovas 12 Jan & 9 Belongings 25 Feb, 3pm Feb Sometimes you have to The Littlest Yak 24-28 Jan Join Little Supernovas for find the courage to be you.

Beautiful puppets, catchy fun, adventure storytime A heart-warming theatre tunes and an uplifting tale sessions. Ages 18mths-5. show. Ages 7-11.

18 January/February

Familiesonline.co.uk

Half term fun on the river for children aged 5 - 11 Indoor activities on a historic barge Art & craft, nature and boat themed games Canbury Gardens, Kingston Riverside 13 & 15 February 2-hour morning or afternoon sessions £20 per child info@thamesboatproject.org www.thamesboatproject.org

EZLite Graco Stroller Giveaway

T&Cs apply

A perfect, light weight stroller for families Easy to control and manoeuvre Newborn to age 3

APPLY HERE Familiesonline.co.uk

Worth £50

January/February 19

GIVEAWAY

Ages 8+

National Geographic Science Kit Bundles Discovery and hands-on learning Bundles include: Worth Geodes Kit £77 each Gemstone Dig Kit Glow in the Dark Science Kit

APPLY HERE

20 January/February

T&Cs apply

Familiesonline.co.uk

PARENTING

Improving your child’s social skills Play

Practise talking

Teach body language

Conflict resolution

Start with basics – explain how we communicate feelings and thoughts without words.

Observe together – point out examples in everyday situations and ask what your child thinks.

Play games – play ‘emotion charades’ where children act out emotions with body language.

Books & stories – discuss characters’ feelings and the cues that indicate those emotions.

Set the example – model effective communication, active listening and compromise.

Promote open communications – empower your child to express their thoughts and feelings.

Identify feelings – help them identify the emotions of others in a conflict.

Foster empathy – help children understand the feelings and perspectives of others.

Eye contact and social skills

Dealing with friendship struggles

A fun activity to build awareness of eye contact to support social understanding.

Great for kids 7-11. Covers the drama of friendship, pressure, competition and success.

Role play – use puppets for different scenarios eg when your child meets new friends.

Games – play games which encourage interaction and cooperation eg board games.

Be a good model – demonstrate co-operation and sportsmanship.

Play with peers – organise playdates to provide opportunities for social interaction.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Start early – engage in simple conversations and narrate daily activities.

Listen – model active listening by paying attention when your child speaks.

Expand vocabulary – use a variety of words to describe emotions, actions and objects.

Be polite – encourage the importance of polite language by using ‘please’ and ‘thank you’.

January/February 21

FOOD

Top recipe books to use with the kids

It’s cold and murky outside – but warm and inviting in the kitchen! Cook up a storm with the kids using one of these recommended recipe books.

Cook Me a Rhyme: The Usborne First In the Kitchen with Cookbook Quick, wholesome, easyBasic techniques for Mother Goose The Silver Spoon for Children

to-make Italian dishes.

New edition of a classic.

Ages 7-11. £17.05.

The World in My Kitchen

Explore cuisines and cultures from around the world. Ages 5+. £12.34.

Nadiya’s Bake Me a Story

Storybook and cookbook combined - scrumptious stories and delicious bakes. Ages 6-11. £14.24 22 January/February

Classic nursery rhymes inspire recipes & cookalong stories. Ages 5-11.

beginners and selection of favourite recipes.

Ages 7+. £12.99.

My Daddy Cooks

This Cookbook is Gross

Cooking for beginners.

100 tried-and tested recipes. Ages 4+. £3.57.

Gruffalo Crumble and other recipes Recipes specially designed to cook with Gruffalo-loving kids!

Ages 3-6. £12.34.

Make gross, yet very tasty, food creations!

Ages 7-9. £9.24.

The Vegetarian Cookbook

Tasty and filling recipes breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks. Ages 9-12. £12.34.

Familiesonline.co.uk

ACTIVITES

Learning to draw (better)

We’ve tracked down some great online resources to help your child learn to draw or improve their drawing skills.

Draw with Rob

Videos showing how to draw everything from an alien to a whale.

Kidmons online painting tool

How to draw Pudsey Bear

Interactive animation with step-by-step instructions; great for new learners.

How to draw the Gruffalo

Tate Draw

Draw online and create your own digital masterpiece.

Learn to draw with Ed Vere

Easy to use with simple icons. Suitable for early years up.

Step-by-step video shows how, with basic materials, you can create The Gruffalo.

BookTrust’s collection of how to draw videos from the award-winning illustrator.

Kleki

CBeebies Creative Lab

Aggie

Simple and easy-touse. Allows children to experiment with brushes and colour palettes.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Digital art tool. Children paint/draw on a blank canvas and colour in.

Easy to use online drawing tool. Facilitates children to draw with friends.

January/February 23

ACTIVITIES

Great music apps for kids

Encourage your child’s love of music with these fun and engaging apps for all ages.

Garage Band

Apple Transforms a device into instruments and recording studio.

FREE to try.

Toca Dance

Apple Children choreograph characters’ outfits and dance moves to original songs. £4.99.

SoundForest

Apple Compose a song using musical creatures. FREE to try.

24 January/February

Baby’s Musical Hands

Apple & Android Simple and engaging music app for toddlers which encourages touch. £0.99.

Beat Sneak Bandit

Apple Groovy music game requires rhythm and logic. £2.99.

DoReMi 1-2-3: Music for Kids

Apple Helps kids learn to play by ear. FREE to try.

Bandimal

Apple Fun and intuitive.

Kids can discover the creativity of making music. £3.99.

Mussila Music

Apple & Android Fun, game-based music instruction allows kids to explore music. FREE to try.

Music Sparkles

Apple Great play-along music app for little ones, with fabulous upgrade. FREE. Familiesonline.co.uk

GIVEAWAYS

The perfect stroller for families

EZLite Graco stroller Giveaway A perfect, light weight stroller for families Easy to control and manoeuvre

EZLite is the latest lightweight and compact stroller from Graco, perfect for families looking for a reliable and convenient solution that won’t cost the earth.

This budget-friendly stroller ensures that parents and carers get peace of mind from the reliable Graco quality.

The stroller is available in the stylish Midnight, Dusty Rose or Stormy colourways.

With a canopy that protects from the sun, the stroller also has adjustable calf support and twoposition recline, ensuring that littles ones are kept comfortable.

Other features include front swivel-lock wheels and a onestop braking system, making the EZLite easy to control and manoeuvre.

Suitable for newborn babies up to approximately 3 years old, the EZLite from Graco is available now for £50 HERE.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Newborn to age 3

APPLY HERE

Worth £50 T&Cs apply

National Geographic Science Kit Bundles Giveaway W Discovery and hands-on learning

orth £77 each

Ages 8+ Geodes Kit Gemstone Dig Kit Glow in the Dark Science Kit 3 bundles available T&Cs apply

APPLY HERE January/February 25

ACTIVITIES

STEM Make n’ Dos for kids Engage your kids’ skills in science, engineering, technology and maths with these great activities.

Rubber band car

Balancing bird

Flying gyroscope

Lava lamp

Tangram puzzle

Lemon volcano

Make a toy car with Build this balancing bird everyday objects and which seems to defy some pretty cool science. gravity.

Use a coke bottle to create a flying cylinder.

Make your own funky lava lamp.

Make your own tangram geometric animal puzzle.

Make a colourful erupting volcano with lemons and baking soda.

Mini catapult

Make ice cream

Build a dome

Use everyday objects and basic physics to make this cool catapult.

26 January/February

Use science to make ice cream the fun and easy way.

Use drinking straws to create a self-supporting geometric dome.

Familiesonline.co.uk

ACTIVITIES

World Book Day costume ideas Kids LOVE World Book Day! This year, it takes place on 7 March.

So start thinking about costume ideas now!

Harry Potter

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Cheshire Cat

The BFG

Room on the Broom witch

Willy Wonka

Where’s Wally

White Rabbit

The Worst Witch

Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 27

OUT & ABOUT

Family walks for half term Travel a little further afield during February half term and explore a new area with one of our family walks, recommended by The Outdoor Guide.

Cathedral Caves walk, Lake District

Heaven’s Gate, Longleat, Wiltshire

This is a hidden gem in the Lake District - a short walk to an old quarry that was once owned by Beatrix Potter. Cathedral Caves will deliver a WOW factor on this short, dog-friendly walk.

This is a relatively flat walk that offers you great views out across the Longleat Estate. If you take a short detour at the view point, you might spot some rhino in the safari park!

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Coombe Abbey Country Park, Coventry

Petworth Park, Petworth, West Sussex

Sitting on the outskirts of Coventry is the Capability Brown designed landscape of Coombe Abbey Country Park. Here you have a choice of three short, family-friendly walks on clearly marked paths through the woodland, around the lake and across the former deer park.

This seven hundred acre deer park is open throughout the year for all the family (including dogs), to enjoy. With far reaching views out across the South Downs, this is a great place to escape the crowds and let your little ones run free. There’s a great National Trust cafe in the old stables.

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28 January/February

Familiesonline.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Family walks for half term Travel a little further afield during February half term and explore a new area with one of our family walks, recommended by The Outdoor Guide.

How Hill Secret Garden, Norfolk

Aysgarth Waterfall, Yorkshire Dales

A really accessible walk, starting in woodland and continuing into a secret garden - a beautiful boarded walk with water features, streams, amazing plants, seats and old trees.

A series of three waterfalls on the River Ure, used to film part of Robin Hood Prince of Thieves (where Robin fought Little John in the river). Great shop and café at visitor centre.

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Bennett’s Cross, Dartmoor, Devon

Wallington Tree Walk, Northumberland

Dartmoor may be known for its hills and tors but this is a mini mountain that the littlest of legs can manage (although the track up isn’t particularly pushchair friendly). Get the feel of open moorland and look out for the secret shelter at the top!

With thirteen thousand acres of lawns, lakes, woodland, farmland and parkland, there’s plenty of space here for your little ones to run wild. The highlight of this walk are the fabulous old trees that line the route. And being a National Trust property - there’s a great cafe at the end!

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READ MORE

Familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 29

FAMILY FESTIVALS

Top family-friendly festivals for 2024 The UK has loads of family-friendly festivals happening this year. Here is our selection of some of the standouts to help you plan.

Just So, Cheshire

Camp Bestival

Festival of Sport

The Long Road Festival, Leicestershire

Gloworm Festival, Nottinghamshire

Deer Shed Festival, North Yorkshire

25-28 July Dorset 16-18 August A weekend-long camping 15-18 August Shropshire festival for families.

Award-winning festival.

Music, theatre, circus, Diverse musical line up. storytelling and more.

Loads of family activities and entertainment.

Venue and date tbc The ultimate family sports festival.

Entertainment, sports coaching and more.

23-25 August Country music.

Dedicated kids’ area.

16-18 August For children 0-13, music, activities, entertainment and arts.

Standon Calling, Hertfordshire

Gone Wild Festival Victorious Festival, 22-24 August Exeter Portsmouth

25-28 July Boutique music and arts festival. Entertainment area for kids.

30 January/February

26-29 July Wonderland of music, arts, science and sport.

8-11 August Norfolk 23-25 August Music and outdoor Big names of UK music. activities like kayaking, Newly expanded Kids’ high ropes, tree climbing. Arena - free activities.

Familiesonline.co.uk