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Surrey East
IN THIS ISSUE
Everything Christmas! Win Toys for Christmas! Micro Scooter + LOTS MORE!
Magazine
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November/December 2020
familiesonline.co.uk
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Familiesonline.co.uk November/ December 1
Are you looking for a new opportunity? Work flexible hours from home and around your family!
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Families Surrey East is a premium free magazine for parents with children 0-12 and is now looking for a new owner. The Surrey East franchise area covers Redhill, Reigate, Dorking, Leatherhead, Oxted, Lingfield, Caterham and all the areas inbetween. Families Surrey East is part of the brand-leading Families Magazine franchise group, established in 1990, and has 40 titles around the UK. This year, we are celebrating 30 years in business! If you are interested in: • running your own business and; • learning the skills of print publishing, copy writing, design, sales, social media and business management. Get in touch today, email your interest to: editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE 2 November/December
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CONTENTS
In This Issue
Welcome
4-8
Education
9-22
Christmas part 1
It’s not long until Christmas, and, whilst it will feel different to usual, there will still be plenty to organise.
19-23
Gift Guide
So we’ve got every angle covered – gifts, cooking, decoration and cardmaking, ideas for a cheaper and more eco-friendly season, opportunities for giving to others – right through to the best family films and ideas for Christmas Eve traditions. So save our link and keep it handy!
27-33 Christmas part 2 34
Early Years
36
Familiy Life
38-40 Christmas part 3 41-46 Clubs & Classes
Get in touch 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.
Marking our 30 year anniversary, we are also delighted to bring you the Great Families® Toy Giveaway – check out the opportunity to win toys from our Gift Guide. Wishing you a Merry Christmas from everybody at Families® Magazine.
Families Magazine turns 30!
To celebrate, we have FREEBIES for YOU! -In
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IN THIS ISSUE
Easter activities & What’s Ons for * Win chocolates Mother’s Day & family day out tickets * Play café guide * School open days * Reader offers
2020 Issue 10 March/April
estkent.co.uk email: editor@familiesw
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Magazine November/ December 3
LOCAL NEWS
Book your FREE taster session for January with LCA Stage Academy NOW!
Learn to Swim with Sports Generation in Dorking
LCA Stage Academy provide a range of performance classes in singing, acting and dancing, including technique training, one to one sessions, and a range of performance opportunities for young, aspiring performers aged 3-18. READ MORE
Rapid progress with personalised 1:1 or 2:1 swimming lessons for children. Calm learning environment in a warm private pool with industry leading committed coaches Book your no-obligation trial today. Trials will be held in December. READ MORE
CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION
LCA-STAGE.COM 07714 276 241 INFO@LCA-STAGE.COM Here at LCA, our classes, workshops and masterclasses are full of fun, hard work and determination both for our students and teachers. We create a platform for all performers, giving them the training they need, whether they would like to learn for fun or pursue a career in Music or Performing Arts.
LCA MUSICAL THEATRE (Saturdays at Oxted School) Rising Stars | ages 3-5 | 9am - 9:45am Junior Musical Theatre | ages 6-11 | 10am - 11am Senior Musical Theatre | ages 12-18 | 11am - 1pm
BOOK YOUR FREE TASTER SESSION FOR JANUARY NOW AND RECEIVE 10% OFF FEES FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE TERM WHEN YOU REGISTER 4 November/December
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LOCAL NEWS
Godstone Farm Day Nursery Opening Easter 2021
Virtual Open Morning at Banstead Prep School
The new Godstone Farm Day Nursery will offer childcare from 6 weeks old and includes supervised visits to the Farm Park as well access to private gardens, set to open Easter 2021.
Banstead Prep School is a coeducational prep school and nursery for girls and boys aged 2 – 11 where there’s more to a good education. Whilst they can’t offer open mornings this term, you can visit at a time to suit you by experiencing our virtual Open Morning. READ MORE
READ MORE
familiesonline.co.uk
November/ December 5
EDUCATION
Independent school and nursery for girls and boys aged 2-11, where there’s more to a good education. Click to take a virtual tour of our school. SUTTON LANE | BANSTEAD | ADMISSIONS@BANSTEADPREP.COM | 01737 363600 6 November/December familiesonline.co.uk
EDUCATION
Choosing a Tutor for your Child
Primary School League Tables Explained
By Kate Hilpern
By Annabel Gray
In the past, parents might employ a tutor, discreetly, to help their child keep up at school. Now tutoring is higher profile and focuses on making students more academically competitive – getting ahead, not just keeping up. So if your child needs a tutor, how do you choose one? READ MORE
There are many factors to consider when choosing a school for your child – often including how well the school is performing. A useful tool to reference is the school annual league tables. Unfortunately though, these can sometimes seem a little complicated. READ MORE
Improving your Child’s Working Memory
Children use working memory all the time: to remember what they read in the previous paragraph of a book, when doing mental maths and to follow directions with lots of steps. The good news is that, if your child’s working memory seems poor, it can be improved with practice. READ MORE familiesonline.co.uk
November/ December 7
EDUCATION
Protecting your Child from Cyberbullying
Anti-Bullying Week 16-20 November
Should you Defer your Child’s School Start?
By Shelley Goffe-Caldeira
By Claire Winter
It’s been reported that 82% of parents said that their children’s screen time increased during lockdown, with some having an extra four hours or more of non-school related screen time per day. Given this increase, there is no question that cases of bullying will have increased. READ MORE
Are summer-born children disadvantaged? If so, should you consider deferring your child’s school start if they are summerborn? This topic has been hotly debated for years. Certainly, there are pros and cons, but generally no one-size-fits-all solution. READ MORE
Recognising a Subtle Type of Bullying
Why Children Should Write Creatively
READ MORE
Every day children experience events that are new to them as well as adding new words to their vocabulary. These new experiences help them to develop a curious mind and can trigger ideas which then develop into stories or creative writing. So what benefits does this have? READ MORE
By Tanith Carey Imagine this. Annabel spots classmate, Lisa, whispering to her best friend, Eve. Later, Eve informs Annabel that she only wants to play with Lisa today – and the two girls don’t save Annabel a seat at lunch. Tearful and confused, Annabel wonders what she has done wrong….
8 November/December
familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Follow The Harlequin on social media to enjoy a virtual advent calendar
RHS Wisley lights up its flagship garden for a magical Christmas
Vote for the Christmas films you’d like to see at the Waller Studio this year and help to design a film season full of Christmas magic. The Harlequin’s popular new café menu also gets a festive twist in December.
RHS Wisley lights up its flagship garden for a magical event from 21 Nov - 4 Jan. There is a new route with captivating lightshows and musical accompaniment designed to highlight some of the garden’s best-loved sights. We can’t wait to share the beautiful new displays they have planned. READ MORE
READ MORE
familiesonline.co.uk
November/ December 9
CHRISTMAS
The Godstone Farm Elves have been working hard to keep the magic of Christmas alive This year’s Christmas visit returns to Godstone Farm, with all the usual farmyard fun and a truly festive visit to see Father Christmas, but of course some subtle changes have been made to ensure everyone’s safety. Let little ones wander through the magical tunnel with the friendly elves and be guided to meet the man himself! Watch small eyes light up as each child receives a marvellous present. There’s Christmas crafts and cookie decorating too! READ MORE
Email us to include your business in our next issue January/February
Christmas On The Farm
Christmas Facemasks for all the family Celebrate Christmas 2020 in true style with Christmas festive face masks for the whole family. They make great gifts and stocking fillers. READ MORE 10 November/December
Selected dates in December 2020
See website for details! www.godstonefarm.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Toy Giveaway! Vroom Vroom Plate
Conversation Cards
Sword & Shield Sets
Micro Scooter
Knitted Diplodocuses
Driving Experience
Space Magnetic Pack
Mermaid Tails
Robo Wunderkind
Animal Wall Prints
Germ German Attack Games
See Gift Guide for details
familiesonline.co.uk
November/ December 11
CHRISTMAS
Visit Santa’s Woodland Grotto at the Belfry Shopping Centre Meet Santa and his friendly elves safely at the Belfry’s magical winter Woodland Grotto this Christmas. Every child will receive a contact-free transfer of a gift and photos taken with the big man himself can be purchased for an extra-special Christmas gift. For more festive fun and the chance to win fabulous £50 Belfry vouchers, join in the Centre’s elf hunt to find Santa’s elves hidden around the shops! The Belfry will be hosting a series of Drive-in Movies this December! For full details visit the website. With seasonal music and lovely festive lights, the Centre is the place to be during the lead-up to Christmas. Sundays it’s just £1 to park all day. There will be more time to shop in the week before Christmas too and the Centre will be open on Boxing Day. READ MORE Shop Local This
Christmas at the Elf fancy dress competitions at 12noon and 4pm Merry as! Christm
More time to shop the week before Christmas (M&S to 10pm). Open Boxing Day
£50 Find Santa’s Elves hidden around the shops to be in with a chance to win £50 Belfry vouchers!
From just £1
Enjoy a magical Christmas at the Belfry and meet Father Christmas safely with his friendly elves at our enchanted Winter Woodland Grotto during December! Full details including our COVID-19 secure measures available on our website. Avoid the crowds and visit at quieter times, try shopping after 3pm or on a Sunday. Our website also has live visitor count information. You’ll find lots of fantastic offers in stores, and our beautiful lights and Christmas music will bring a festive sparkle to your shopping.
Local - Clean - Safe - Secure - Welcoming For more information go to our website www.redhillbelfry.co.uk 12 November/December
Visit Santa in our Winter Woodland Grotto!
redhillbelfry.co.uk
familiesonline.co.uk
RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262
CHRISTMAS
familiesonline.co.uk
21 November – 4 January 4pm – 8.30pm Closed 24, 25 & 26 December See the gardens after-dark with a brand-new festive display of magical illuminations. Book your time slot at rhs.org.uk/wisleyglow Your visit supports our work as a charity
November/ December 13
CHRISTMAS
Choose your perfect Christmas Tree with Hans Christmas Andersen Hans Christmas Andersen will be open to choose your perfect Christmas tree at their retail sites (Newlands Corner near Guildford and Santa Fir, Shamley Green), and this year they are also offering a Click & Collect service or a Click and Deliver service bookable online using the QR code (see advert below). They are also giving away a free mini Spruce tree for the first 300 orders online! The trees are grown on site and they have won many awards over the years. At Shamley Green there will be a Christmas shop and homeware shop selling gifts and decorations plus real reindeer and Santa. Please check their Facebook page for updates. READ MORE
We are working towards keeping everyone safe by putting social distancing in place and offering alternative methods to get your perfect tree for this Christmas season. • Locally grown For locations visit our website • Freshly cut www.hanschristmasandersen.co.uk • Friendly service • Scan the QR code above Click & Collect freshly cut, locally grown • Place your order online Christmas trees, handpicked by us. • Choose your collection day and location www.clickandcollectchristmastrees.com • Collect your tree We deliver freshly cut, locally grown Christmas trees handpicked by us.
THE FIRST 300 ORDERS RECEIVED ONLINE GET A FREE TINY SPRUCE
• Scan the QR code above • Choose your delivery day from the options available • Place your order online • Your tree will be delivered
Hans Christmas Andersen at Santa Fir, Guildford Road, Shamley Green, Guildford GU5 0SQ
01483 271770 julie@hatrim.co.uk
14 November/December
familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Christmas On Stage Please check venue websites for event and booking details.
Beauty and the Beast
The Borough Hall, Godalming GU7 1HY
Interactive, multi-sensory pantomime, Cinderella
A Christmas Carol
The Nutcracker
The Magic of Panto
The Nutcracker
Dame Dolly Saves Panto
East Molesey Cricket Club, KT8 9AL
Head3Head Theatre Virtual Event on Zoom.
The Socially Distanced Santa Show
The Royal Albert Hall, London SW7 2AP
Ballo Arthur Pita’s The Little Match Girl
The Hawth, Crawley RH10 6YZ
Dorking Halls, Dorking RH4 1SG
Sadlers Wells Theatre EC1R 4TN
familiesonline.co.uk
The Leatherhead Theatre KT22 8DN
The Hawth, Crawley RH10 6YZ
November/ December 15
CHRISTMAS
Festive Events
Please check venue websites for event and booking details.
SteamLights at Bluebell Railway
Beaverbrook on Ice
Sparkle, glow and shimmer on a magical steam train covered by thousands of lights.
Watts Gallery Artists’ Village
Enjoy a festive and creative family day out.
Beaverbrook will launch a winter ice skating rink in the winter wonderland grounds.
Snowfari: Christmas animal trail at Painshill
After Dark Trail at Kew As twilight falls, the magic begins...
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
Skate back in time in the gardens of Henry VIII’s historic home.
Ready, Set, Glow this Christmas at RHS Garden Wisley
Christmas lights at Bedgebury
Peter Rabbit™ winter adventure activity trail
Find polar bears and penguins on a festive animal trail.
Reimagined for 2020 with a new route and captivating lightshows. 16 November/December
Discover a Christmas illuminated trail for all the family.
Peter Rabbit™ winter adventure activity trail at The National Trust. familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Where to See Santa
Please check venue websites for event and booking details.
Santa Specials steam train journeys
Christmas on the Farm
Meet Father Christmas during a magical steam train journey.
Watch small eyes light up as they receives a marvellous present and adventure on the farm.
Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm
Santa’s Woodland Grotto at the Belfry
Surrey Wildlife Trust
Santa Cruises
Meet Santa and his friendly elves safely at the Belfry’s Winter Woodland Grotto.
Search for Father Christmas in his forest grotto.
Wey and Arun Canal Santa Cruises
Denbies Santa’s Express train
40-minute cruises on the Wey and Arun Canal. familiesonline.co.uk
A ride through the vineyard with Santa himself!
See Santa and his reindeer at Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm.
Enjoy a gentle family cruise along the River Way in search of Santa.
Santa Special at the Spa Valley Railway
Take a ride for a festive memorable family day out this Christmas. November/ December 17
Feed your food caddy Recycle all your food waste
18 November/December
familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Online Local Gift Guide for Him
When you buy from a small business an actual person does a little happy dance.
From Tee to Green Gold Retailers Second Hand, ExDemo and New Golf Equipment Retailer.
Kingfisher Farm Shop
A fabulous selection of six beers and ales from three of Surrey’s finest breweries.
Beech Lane Currey House
Denbies Vinyard
Zero Zen
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
Mr Manly Gift Pack.
Bamboo Composite Reusable Travel Mug.
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
This string shopper bag is a simple planetfriendly switch. Made from 100% cotton. familiesonline.co.uk
Crack open a cold one with this natural toned wood and metal bottle opener.
Gift Bags of Home Roasted and Ground Spices.
Copper Pipe Desk Lamp.
That Green Girl
Oarsman’s & Angler’s Map of the River Thames from it’s source to London Bridge. November/ December 19
CHRISTMAS
Online Local Gift Guide for Her
Lily & Grace
Lovely keyrings personalised rainbow keyrings with the initial of your choice.
That Green Girl Make your own beeswax wraps.
Indian cookery class from Beech Lane Currey House Treat a loved one to an Indian cooking experience.
20 November/December
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
Crystal Face Roller. Crystal face rollers are an ancient Chinese anti-aging tool.
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
Mayfield Lavender
Well Woman Essential Oils Kit with 3 Essential Oils to use individually or blend as required.
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
Reusable Make Up Removal Pads.
Lunar Goddess Bath Ritual Box.
Hippy Chic
Pretty Savage Homemade Soaps
A range of handmade jewellery using genuine gemstones Chakra Bracelet.
A selection of locally made soaps and bath time products.
familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Online Local Gift Guide for the Kids
PureBeauty
Baby Mouse
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
Kiddie Bath Bombs. Safe form 3months +.
Framed, handsewn applique textile pictures for children. Can be personalised.
A small 5cm yoyo made from wood in a variety of designs.
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
Lovingly Made Crafts
Wooden Click Clack Cars.
Beautifully crafted Bamboo Plates.
Sweet Filled Gonk Bags with personalised bauble.
Splatter Craft
Klara Hawkins
The Handmade Parcel Company
Kids craft activity kits and a range a craft supplied.
familiesonline.co.uk
Fun range of kids enamel mugs. Designs by Klara Hawkins, a Surrey based artist.
Handmade letter box gift boxes with handcrafted items sourced from artisan small business. November/ December 21
CHRISTMAS
Online Local Local Gift Shops and Independent Retailers
Ida’s House
The Lemon Tree Shop
Independent knitting shop stocking a wide range of yarns, patterns, needles, equipment & accessories.
The perfect place to shop for that unique gift or special treat.
Bumbles
That Girl in Green
The perfect place to find something different, every item has been personally selected.
High quality handmade and environmentally friendly gifts.
Illustrated Books and More
Sweet Vintage
An online bookstore for book collectors and people who love illustration. 22 November/December
Quest Gift Shop
Spiritual gift shop with a wide selection of incense, crystals, essential oils, tarot and oracle cards.
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
A range of great ecofriendly and responsibly sourced gifts.
The Crafters Market
Beautiful home-ware and boutique style gifts. Now online. Showcasing local craft and all things handmade with love. familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Online Local Christmas Tree Decorations
Mayfield Lavender
Delightful and fun, handmade felt Christmas decorations.
The Lemon Tree Shop
Papelito Papercraft
Penny Rose Design
Lovingly Made Crafts
Pedricks Zero Waste Shop
Beautiful handmade bauble creations using thin strips of coloured paper.
A selection of keepsake wooden Lockdown baubles to mark a year we will never forget.
Fabric angel tree topper.
Personalised Christmas Baubles.
Beautifully crafted wooden snowflakes.
In The Loop Crochet
Crafty Owls
Redhill Confetti
Bespoke Christmas Glitter reindeer jingle bell Crochet Christmas Tree keepsake family baubles. nose Christmas bauble decorations. Bunting.
familiesonline.co.uk
November/ December 23
CHRISTMAS
The Unusual Christmas Gift Guide Surprise your kids with some quirky gifts this Christmas!
Wooden Shield/ Sword Set
Perfectly designed for little hands and big adventures. Ages 4+. £15.
PomPom Climbing Triangle
Munchy Play Plate
Fun dining as little ones whizz toy cars/trains around meals. Ages 6mths+. £14.50.
Space Magnetic Pack
An affordable Christmas gift with an intergalactic theme. Ages 5+. £25.
First-of-its-kind climbing triangle which can be folded away at night. Ages 3+. £325.
Young Driver Drive-tastic
Get behind the wheel for a memorable driving experience! Ages 5+ £32.99.
Christmas Cracker Puzzles
Best Years Dino Love
Together Equal Conversation Cards
Gruffalo Micro Scooter
Bright, knitted diplodocus dinosaur – sturdy but soft too! Age 0+. £14.99. 24 November/December
Great stocking filler. Thought-provoking conversation starters. Ages 7+. £7.99.
Premium wooden puzzles in cracker packaging. Ages 3-8. £9.95.
Exclusive for 2020. Range of prints and colours. Ages 1-5. From £95.95. familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
The Unusual Christmas Gift Guide Surprise your kids with some quirky gifts this Christmas!
Horrible Science Germ Attack
Planet Mermaid Tails
Smart Counting Football
Junko Zoomer Kits
Follow Me Ball
Penguins On Ice
Robo Wunderkind
Engenius Contraptions Marble Run
Animal Wall Prints
Imagination-stimulating Beautifully designed board game with a and created mermaid topical subject! Ages tails. 100% swimmable! 8+. £19.99. Ages 3+. From £33.99.
Counts up to 100 keepy-uppies with lights and sounds. Ages 6+. £20.
Make junk into working A colour changing Unique, award-winning toys using problemmotorised ball for baby puzzle game with solving skills. Ages to follow. Ages: 6mths+ multi-level challenges. 6-10. From £9.99. £16.99. Ages 6+ £19.99.
Award-winning robotics kits that teach coding through the joy of play. Ages 4-10. From £199. familiesonline.co.uk
Wooden perpetual motion marble run. Ages 10+. £28.99.
Bespoke, personalised animal wall or shelf prints. Ages 0+. From £10. November/ December 25
CHRISTMAS
The Great Families® Toy Giveaway! WIN! 1 of 3
Mermaid Tails from Planet Mermaid
WIN!
WIN! 1 of 3
Gruffalo Micro Scooter from Micro Scooter
Germ Attack Game from Horrible Science
Select 3 in 1 (12mths5yrs) or Mini (2-5 yrs).
WIN!
WIN! 1 of 2
WIN! 1 of 5
Sword & Shield Sets from Green Owl Toys
Conversation Cards from Together Equal
WIN! 1 of 2
Child’s Animal Print from Lauren May Illustrates
Knitted Diplodocus from Best Years
Vroom Vroom Plate from Munchy Play
WIN!
WIN!
WIN!
1 of 2 Young Driver Driving Experience (10-17yrs)
Space Magnetic Set from Time Flies for Kids WIN!
Explorer Lite from Robo Wunderkind
Good Luck! T&Cs apply
26 November/December
ENTER HERE familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Are You Dreaming of a Green Christmas? Here are some of our ideas for an eco-friendly Christmas.
Buy a Living Christmas Tree
Keep it outside and bring in every year.
Free Christmas Gift Cheques
Avoid unnecessary gift giving and waste. Pledge to do something instead.
Buy Reusable Crackers
Fill with your own special gifts and surprises. familiesonline.co.uk
Invest in a Reusable Advent Calendar Fill with your own treats each year.
Dedicate a Tree
Give a gift that keeps on growing.
Use Eco-Friendly Wrapping Paper
Make sure it is recyclable and, if possible, made from recycled paper.
Introduce Some Vegan Food
Reduce your carbon footprint by trying some vegan food.
Charity Christmas E-cards
Help a charity at same time as helping the planet.
Switch to LED Christmas Lights
Use up to 80% less energy than standard lights. November/ December 27
CHRISTMAS
Crafty Christmas Gifts for Teachers Make a homemade gift to say thank you to your teacher for their support this year.
Make a Pebble Teacher Paper Weight
Decorate a Plant Pot
Make a Jar of Chocolate Brownie Mix
Bake Flowerpot Bread
Knit an Apple
Make a DIY Pencil Holder
Put Together a Tea Wreath
Create a Cactus Pet Rock
Make Hot Chocolate Stirrers
28 November/December
familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Christmas Cooking with the Kids Get the whole family busy in the kitchen with these exciting seasonal recipe ideas.
Mini Gingerbread Houses
Christmas Yoghurt Bark Slices
Rudolph Shortbread
Rudolph Pancakes
Santa Brownie Hats
Sweet Snowballs
Christmas Pudding Rice Krispie Cakes
Melted Snowmen Cookies
Kid’s Christmas Trifles
familiesonline.co.uk
November/ December 29
Free £5 bonus when you make your first purchase!
As you tick off the turkey, brand new sofa and Christmas presents off your lists - you can tick off the biggest gift of all when you shop with KidStart... Together we can help make a brighter future for your child. Every time you shop at one of our 2,300 partners, we top up your child’s account for free.
Make your money go even further this Black Friday, Christmas and beyond... Search for a retailer and click to Shop Shop as normal Feel great as you watch your child’s savings grow-ho-ho-ho!
Sign up now! 30 November/December
familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Seasonal Acts of Kindness
It’s a tough time for everybody, so here are some different ways to support those in need.
Centrepoint More Than a Christmas Dinner
NSPCC Letter from Santa
#FoodBankAdvent Reverse Calendar
RSPCA Christmas Appeal
Action for Children: Be a Secret Santa
BookTrust Give a Festive Book Parcel
Save the Children Christmas Jumper Day
Age UK Say Hello to an Older Neighbour
Wear a Christmas Hat Day Support this vital research on 18 December for Brain Tumour Research.
Donate when you order Help a homeless young a letter from Santa for your child. person this Christmas.
Help rescue an Support your local food bank. Collect a Reverse abandoned/neglected animal. Advent Calendar.
Help a vulnerable child have a happier Christmas.
Brighten a vulnerable Ideas for supporting an child’s Christmas with a Get your silliest jumper older neighbour with special gift book parcel. small acts of kindness. out on 11 December and donate £2. familiesonline.co.uk
November/ December 31
CHRISTMAS
DIY Christmas Cards Kids love to make or colour their own and they are so much more special than bought cards!
Surprise Christmas Cracker Card
Tinsel Tree Card
Sesame Street Christmas Card
Hand-Stitched Christmas Cards
Confetti Christmas Card
Layered Christmas Tree Card
Snow Surprise Christmas Card
Reindeer Christmas Card
Fingerprint Light Cards
32 November/December
familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Christmas Eve Traditions
Mix and match ideas for different parts of the day and create family traditions that your children will treasure.
Morning
Afternoon
Posh breakfast. Enjoy pancakes and bacon using festive plates and cups. Feed the birds. Hang edible treats or a feeder so the birds can have Christmas dinner! Make reindeer food. Mix edible glitter and oats to sprinkle outside for Rudolph and friends. Write a thank you letter to Santa. Encourage your kids to leave thank you notes for Santa. Create a Santa sack for others. Get your children to select unwanted toys for Santa to pick up and take to other children.
Bake something Christmassy. Gingerbread, shortbread, cookies or a cake. Exercise. A family walk or cycle will help your children settle to sleep on the big night. Set up a treasure hunt. Leave clues around the house for kids to find a special Christmas Eve present like a tree decoration. Family photoshoot. Take a family selfie. Compare with Christmas photos from previous years. Play a game. Introduce a new card game or play a board game.
Evening Snuggle up and watch a film, read a Christmas story or watch a panto. Leave food out for Santa. Don’t forget a carrot for Rudolph! Enjoy virtual Christmas carols. This year many organisations will be having carolling events online. Go on a family Christmas light walk. Get some fresh air and check out the neighbourhood Christmas lights. Carol singing. Wrap up warm and treat neighbours and friends to your angelic voices – at a safe distance! Hang up the stockings. Remember the most important tradition of all (as if you’d forget)! familiesonline.co.uk
November/ December 33
EARLY YEARS
Best Sing-Alongs for Learning Songs can help children learn and remember. Check out these great singalongs for under 5s.
Days of the Week Song
Counting to Ten in Four Languages There’s English, German, Portuguese and Indonesian.
Great for co-ordination and includes signing.
Shapes Song
Shape up with The Hippie Hippie Shapes in the CBeebies house.
Alphabet Song
Bring the alphabet to life with this memorable song and movement routine.
Months of the Year
Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes
12 Days of Christmas
So Many Colours to See
Learn the days of the week with Buzz the Bandleader.
Teaches co-ordination and body parts. 34 November/December
Sing and count with this popular Christmas song.
The Wheels on the Bus
Learn the months by singing along with Marvie from Sesame Street.
Learn about colours with The Wiggles.
familiesonline.co.uk
EARLY YEARS
The Importance of Toddler Play By Dr Sarah Mundy
Play is an enjoyable part of childhood, and an important one for the developing brain. Through play, children develop physically, emotionally, cognitively and creatively. It allows them to engage in the world in a way that feels safe, explore different roles, address fears, and develop confidence. Children who have parents who actively play with them, learn about sharing, problem solving and decision-making more quickly than those who don’t. Playing with your child also helps you understand their world and shows them you are interested in them, both important aspects of a secure attachment relationship, which is seen as the cornerstone of a child’s development. So playing with our children is very important, even though prioritising this can be difficult. But how do we initiate play? And what do we do? READ MORE
Unlock Your Child’s Inner Superpowers
Children’s charity Barnardo’s has launched the Super Seekers activity packs for children aimed at helping to develop life skills such as kindness, creativity and resilience. The packs are designed to help children ages 3 to 5 years develop important life skills through fun and imaginative play. FIND PACKS familiesonline.co.uk
November/ December 35
FAMILY LIFE
Storytelling Ideas for Parents By Becky Cranham www.planbee.com
Voice and Intonation Your tone of voice is crucial in engaging your children and helping them understand the story. Convey emotions by: Slowing or quickening your voice Changing the volume of your voice Making your voice higher/lower Use different voices for different characters.
Questions
Asking your child questions about what is happening and how they feel about it can help keep them engaged and following the plot.
Repeated Phrases Help Kids Join In
Think, the Three Little Pigs - “I’ll huff and I’ll puff and I’ll blow your house down!” Try books like Not Now, Bernard Green Eggs and Ham We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
Use Story Tools
Tired brain? Use tools like Roll and Write Story Ideas Generator to come up with basic plots.
Build on Familiar Stories…
Use Wordless Picture Books
…and change the setting, characters or details. Turn Snow White into a cat who runs away from the evil cat queen and lives with a group of seven friendly squirrels!
Describe the setting, characters, and what they say. Encourage your children to join in. Do they agree with your version? Can they make up their own? Try: Flotsam Flora and the Flamingo The Snowman Owl Bat Bat Owl Clown Mirror Journey Once Upon a Snowstorm
Or add your child as a character in stories like The Little Mermaid or modern classics like Bob the Builder.
Draw on Life Experiences You may, of course, embellish/ leave out certain details! Tell your children funny stories about when they were younger. 36 November/December
Tell Stories Anytime, Anywhere…. …not just at bedtime!
familiesonline.co.uk
FAMILY LIFE
How to Have a Thrifty Christmas
How Many Toys Does a Child Need?
The pandemic, lockdown, a slowdown in the economy, and job losses have affected many people’s finances across the UK, meaning less money to spend on Christmas. So here are some great festive money-saving tips from our Families® experts, to help you enjoy Christmas without breaking the bank. READ MORE
Toys have a way of taking over. Before you know it, you are knee-deep in discarded Lego and naked Barbie dolls. The children are bored, the house is a mess and no one is happy. Most families have too many toys and more toys actually equals less play. Why is this?
Christmas if You’re Separated
Top Self-Care Tips for Working Parents
All separated parents have a puzzle to solve at Christmas. How are you going to create a Christmas that is affordable, achievable, pleases the kids and works for your child’s other parent? None of this is easy…
The Covid-19 pandemic has been a huge test of parents’ resilience and adaptability. So how can you last the distance? Mental well-being is crucial for the long haul - and because your mental health effects that of your children. Our friends at Working Mums have 8 top tips for looking after yourself if you’re a working parent. READ MORE
By Rebecca Giraud and Bob Greig
READ MORE familiesonline.co.uk
READ MORE
November/ December 37
CHRISTMAS
WIN International Elf Service Elfie’s Christmas Advent Letters Story Bundle!
T&Cs apply
ENTER HERE BY 24 NOVEMBER This is your chance to win 25 Personalised Christmas Elf Letters from the North Pole, worth £38.50. Hide these hand-crafted, ecofriendly letters around your home for your children to find each day in December and discover what the Elves are up to in the North Pole! The winner will also receive a letter from Father Christmas. Runners up will receive one of 5 sets of 7 Personalised Christmas Elf Letter NEWS or ACTIVITY Bundles. 20% off when you order HERE using FAMILYMAGIC20 at checkout.
Letter from Santa
What could be more special than a letter in the post from Santa? Children can receive a FREE letter from Santa via the Royal Mail if they post their letter to him by 11 December. Envelopes must have either a first or second class stamp and be addressed to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. Letters must include your child’s full name and address. Children can also receive a personalised reply from Santa via his elves at the NSPCC in exchange for a minimum £5 donation. Order online by 9 December. 38 November/December
familiesonline.co.uk
CHRISTMAS
Christmas Decorations to Make with the Kids
Tree House Decoration
Paper Plate Christmas Tree Twirler
DIY Wrapping Paper
Snowman Lantern
Paper Angel Garlands
Pine Cone Mouse
Paper Ball Reindeer
3D Christmas Tree
Paper Plate Santa
familiesonline.co.uk
November/ December 39
CHRISTMAS
Best Family Christmas Movies Snuggle up on the sofa with your family and some Quality Street or mince pies to watch a classic Christmas movie!
Home Alone
Elf
The Holiday
An 8 year old boy protects his house from burglars when he is left home alone.
A man-sized Elf (Will Ferrell) wreaks havoc on the elf community.
Cheesy rom-com. Kate Winslett/Cameron Diaz find romance on a home swap.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
It’s a Wonderful Life
The Muppet Christmas Carol
Love Actually
Miracle on 34th Street
Jim Carrey is the perfect Grinch in this memorable festive flick.
Great British actors, a brilliant soundtrack, a festive classic that can be watched every year! 40 November/December
Beautiful black and white classic for the whole family.
A Christmas remake that’s as charming as the 1947 original.
Loveable remake of Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol, with Michael Caine.
Nativity
Fondly remember the chaotic nativity plays you’ve all endured/ enjoyed! familiesonline.co.uk
CLUBS & CLASSES
Local Academic Tuition
Explore Learning
Maths & English SATs & 11 Plus tuition.
Learn Grow Create
Dorking Private tutoring for 5-18 year olds.
Southern Tutors
11+ key stage 2 Maths and English tuition.
familiesonline.co.uk
First Class Learning
Various locations Expert English and Maths tuition for all ages and abilities.
Kumon
Maths and English study programme.
Maths Masters
Morton Tutoring
Starlight Learning
The Learning Club
Epsom,Tadworth & Reigate Redhill Tuition in literacy and Professional, affordable maths, 11+ ,13+ exam maths tuition clubs for preparation and verbal Key Stages 1-2. and non-verbal reason
Kenley, Caterham, Purley and Coulsdon Tuition for children in Years 3- 6.
Reigate Private tuition classes for 4-11 year olds. English and Maths.
November/ December 41
CLUBS & CLASSES
Art, Language and Music Classes
Kidslingo
Art K
Coulsdon, Tadworth, Redhill, Reigate and Banstead Fun French classes for all ages
Various locations Art K cater for art learning both in the studio and at home.
Craft My Day
Rock Project Croydon
Worcester Park KT4 8HY Arts and crafts activities.
Realistic Music Academy
Epsom Contemporary music academy. 42 November/December
Kingswood Surrey Music
Music education, Singing & Performance skills, Piano & Music Theory.
Petite Ecole Reigate
Caterham and Purley Drums, Guitar, Bass Guitar and Vocals.
Reigate French classes every Saturday. Ages 4 16.
Krafty Kids Club
Surrey Sound of Music School
Various locations Arts & Crafts club for children of all ages.
Lessons in piano, singing, flute, violin, drums, guitar & more. familiesonline.co.uk
CLUBS & CLASSES
Preschool and Toddler Classes
Aquatots
Various locations Swim programme for children from 10 weeks to 7 or 8.
My Gym Wallington
Gymboree Play & Music
Face to face classes for 0-5s on patented apparatus.
Dorking Ducklings Swim Lessons
Wallington SM6 8SY Fantastic fun filled programs for ages 6 weeks – 10 years.
St John School Dorking Baby and Child Swimming Lessons.
Rugbytots
Little Gym
A fun and dynamic PreSchool programme for 2-7-year old boys and girls. familiesonline.co.uk
Face to face and online gymnastics activities for 4mths-12yrs.
Teddies Music Club
Face to face and online music toddler groups for 0-5s.
Sing & Sign
Various locations Baby singing and signing class.
Leatherhead & Dorking Gymnastics Club
Kindergym and preschool classes. 18 months - 5 years November/ December 43
CLUBS & CLASSES
Learn to swim WITH SPORTS GENERATION IN DORKING
Rapid Progress with 1:1 or 2:1 personalised swimming lessons for children | Calm learning environment in a luxurious and warm private indoor pool
Call 0208 940 9431 or email contact@sportsgeneration.co.uk to book your no-obligation trial to experience the difference
44 November/December
BO A T OK TO RIAL DA Y
sportsgenerationswimming | www.sportsgeneration.co.uk
familiesonline.co.uk
CLUBS & CLASSES
Active Sports Clubs
Active 1st
Active 1st run gymnastics, football, dance, multi-sports and cheerleading academies.
Axten 1-2-1 Private Football Coaching London and Surrey 1-1 football coaching. for beginners to
Flexi Flics Gymnastics
Sports Generation
Great Waves Swimming Academy
Future Gymnastics
Coulsdon, Reigate, Warlingham & Kenley Gymnastics for age 4+.
Lessons for swimmers of all ages and abilities. familiesonline.co.uk
Near Dorking Superior 1:1 or 2:1 swimming lessons for children in a warm private pool
Carshalton Fun gymnastics sessions for children from 3 +.
Athletix Kidz
Reigate & Caterham The ONLY athletics play programme for children from 2½ to 8 year olds.
Caterham Allstars Cheerleading
Caterham Professional cheerleading training.
Star Tastic Gymnastics
Epsom, Stoneleigh, and Reigate. Classes for all ages. November/ December 45
CLUBS & CLASSES
Performing Arts Classes
C & C Dance School
Caterham Performing Arts
East Surrey Dance
Redhill, Woldingham and Blenchingly Dance lessons for fitness, confidence and creativity.
Nutfield and Reigate Dance & drama for pupils aged 18 months. to adults.
Acrobatic arts, ballet, jazz, modern, musical theatre, tap and cheerleading.
Inspire Academy of Dance
LCA Stage Academy
Reigate, Dorking, Horsham and Horley Classes for ages 2+. ages 2 to adult.
Godstone Dance Academy
Dance classes and workshops & NEW drama classes starting for children 6+. .
Oxted Performance classes and workshops in singing, acting and dancing. 3–18 years.
Perform
The Katie Cox Dance Studio
Stagecoach Performing Arts
Purley, Caterham, Reigate, Oxted Performing Arts classes. 3 – 10 years. 46 November/December
Warlingham Dance and musical theatre training.
Various locations Dance, Singing, and Acting. Ages 4-18. familiesonline.co.uk