Families London Surrey Borders Nov/Dec 2017

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BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF

CHEAM & WORCESTER PARK 020 8773 4242 COULSDON 0345 078 0805 CROYDON 0845 265 7083 EPSOM 01372 730363 MITCHAM & TOOTING 020 8942 3502 SHIRLEY 020 8949 1116

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Creative Courage For Life

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Issue 77 November/December 2017 familiesonline.co.uk

SUTTON 01372 740284

familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders

NEW L O SCHO

is delighted to be opening a new school near you Our fun and engaging weekly classes are for 4 - 18 year olds.

Children are given both structure and freedom as they learn how to sing, dance and act.

Age: 4 - 6 year olds Age: 6 - 18 year olds

Time: Fridays 4.30pm - 6.00pm Time: Fridays 5.00pm - 8.00pm

Venue: Orchard Park High School, Orchard Way, Croydon CR0 7NJ stagecoach.co.uk/shirley

020 8949 1116

Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

Stagecoach Shirley

We’re giving them the confidence to tackle the new school year fearlessly!

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

2 Families London Surrey Borders

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In this issue...

London Surrey Borders Tel: 01923 239 664 Editor’s welcome

Editor Tamar Pearson editor@families-LSB.co.uk

The leaves have turned from green to the golden hues of autumn, bringing with them great change as winter sets in. Families LSB has had some great changes of its own, as one became two.

Design Rebecca Carr Printer Print Mates 21,000 copies printed 42,000 readers per issue Next issue January/ February 2018 Booking deadline 2 December 2017 Families London Surrey Borders is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

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

Welcoming baby Mordekai, the newest member of our family. It has been quite a dance so far but we are settling into the rhythms of life and magical beginning.

Merry Christmas to you all, and may your own magic find you.

Tamar xx

4 5 6 7 8 10 12 13 14

Clubs & classes news Local news Education news Christmas news Entertaining the kids What’s on this Christmas What’s on at the National Trust Christmas shows and pantos What’s on

Comprenant l’étude de la langue écrite et orale.

Programme pédagogique français.

French Classes for all Primary School Children Beginners and French speakers Le samedi après-midi à Wray Common School, Reigate RH2 0LR Contactez-nous 07913 811345 info@petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk | www.petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk

The Lotus Practice Now offering baby massage and yoga!

Gymboree Play and Music Cheam Sensory Baby Play Art Music

Play & Learn Parties

TRY A FREE CLASS TODAY! 07990 761 259 cheam@gymboree-uk.com www.gymboreeclasses.co.uk

ü Cranio-sacral therapy ü Baby Massage Courses ü Baby Yoga Courses Baby massage is relaxing and enjoyable for both mum and babies, supporting bonding between you and your baby with quality time that’s fun.

) 07956442223 : thelotus@hotmail.co.uk 8 www.thelotuspractice.com

Bubble bursts into Surrey Woking Godalming Croydon

bubble, the babysitting app that allows parents to find, book and pay recommended babysitters in their area has recently launched across Surrey. Parents in need of childcare can find a sitter within minutes, by using the app’s “Express Book” feature.

To find out more, visit www.joinbubble.com or download the app on iOS or Android familiesonline.co.uk

Families London Surrey Borders 3

Clubs & Classes News

Stagecoach Shirley opening a new Friday school in January 2018 After 20 years teaching dance, drama and singing to local children on Saturdays, Stagecoach Performing Arts Shirley are very excited to announce that due to popular demand, they are opening a brand-new Friday school from January 2018.

The Friday night venue will be Orchard Park High School, Orchard Way, Croydon CR0 7NJ, offering classes for 4-6-year olds and 6-18-year olds will be offered.

At Stagecoach, students develop their skills of acting, singing and dancing, while growing in confidence to find Creative Courage for Life.

My Gym Wallington opens its doors on 12 Nov Over my last 7 years as a parent I feel like I have taken my children to every entertainment venue South London has to offer, but nothing came close to our visit to a My Gym. State-of-the-art facility with an indoor zip wire, swings and more!

Structured teacher-led classes rather than just free play! Clean! Amazing customer service! A place for children of all ages to have fun while getting exercise! A place for both children AND parents to make friends! Trained, friendly and nurturing staff! Incredible hassle-free birthday parties and holiday camps!

When I looked around my area of Croydon/Sutton/East Surrey I couldn’t find anything remotely comparable so I had to open one myself! And now that dream is becoming a reality when My Gym Wallington opens its doors on 12 Nov !

Early Stages classes (4-6 years) are for 90 minutes, whereas Main Stages classes (6-18 years) run for 3 hours, where students rotate between disciplines in a smaller group of children roughly their own age. Classes are kept small so the trained teachers, who are all DBS checked, can focus more on each student.

There will be an open evening at 5pm – 7pm on Friday 8th December for any students interested in coming along for a free trial. They can meet with the teachers and learn what Stagecoach is all about.

“Stagecoach nurture the shy and apprehensive, until they find their feet and voice, whilst at the same time developing and challenging those with bundles of talent, confidence and energy”, says Principal Kim Findlay. “New students can do a two week trial to see if Stagecoach is right for them, before signing up for a whole term. And we have a brilliant programme planned for 2018, so there are exciting times ahead!”

For more information regarding weekly classes on Fridays and Saturdays visit www. stagecoach.co.uk/shirley or to book a place at the free open evening on December 8th, call Principal Kim on 020 8949 1116.

Don’t miss great discounts, gifts and vouchers for Busylizzy Sutton members!

Busylizzy is an affordable, flexible, fun and friendly family club opening in Sutton in January. An award-winning approach supporting parents on maternity leave and beyond with a combination of fitness classes, baby classes, talks and events.

My Gym has developed an extraordinary Busylizzy classes are on every weekday and run for 51 weeks program that incorporates music, dance, of the year. As members, you can attend any combination relays, games, special rides, gymnastics, of our classes using our handy app to book, cancel and sports and more. We feel that with the reschedule and enjoy classes on your terms. growing trend of children being sat in front of screens, My Gym provides a great Our brilliant baby classes include Baby Boogie, Baby Massage, Baby Yoga, Baby Signing, outlet for local children to learn, play, Baby Picassos and Baby Karma. Our fab fitness classes include prenatal Pilates and socialise and stay fit! Visit www.mygym. postnatal Aerobics, Yoga, Pilates, and outdoor Mummy&Me Buggyfitness and Bootcamp. com/wallington, call 07412957001 or email You don’t need childcare to attend our fitness classes as your baby comes along too. wallington@mygym.com with your child’s date of birth for more information.

55x70_alison.qxp_Layout 9 25/08/2016 10:52 Pa Visit our website www.busylizzysutton.co.uk for more information and enter code FOUNDER50 at checkout to receive our limited founder membership offer.

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy

Birthday Parties Too!

Babies from 3 months action songs and sensory stimulation Walkers to 2 years music, movement and motor development 2 to 4 years dance, musicality and beat competency

Classes in Croydon & surrounding areas Call Alison on 020 8407 1726 or email: alison.storey@madacademy.com

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

4 Families London Surrey Borders

Speech & Drama Classes LAMDA training for all ages After-School and Weekend Sessions Group and Private Tuition Available For further information please call or email:

07947 545 309 020 3620 2866 jenna@curtainupdrama.co.uk www.curtainupdrama.co.uk 4, Carlton Road, South Croydon, CR2 0BP familiesonline.co.uk

News & Views

Hever Castle’s new adventure playground has opened Aimed at children 7-14 the new adventure playground at Hever Castle features three slides and two poles and lots of interactive elements split into three houses named after three of the most significant owners in the evolution of the Castle: Boleyn, Waldegrave and Astor.

Duncan Leslie CEO said: “This has been quite an undertaking doing this project and a great team effort pulling it together. There is a good chance that one day this building might be listed because it’s built to last.”

‘All Different, All Equal’ Anti-Bullying Week runs from 13 to 17 November this year and the theme, ‘All Different, All Equal’ aims to promote difference and equality in schools.

The idea is to help children and young people celebrate what makes them, and others, unique and help them understand why it’s important that every child feels included at school and able to be themselves without fear of bullying.

The Anti-Bullying Alliance will be supporting schools with a range of free activities to help them take action to prevent bullying and create safe environments for their pupils.

Anti-Bullying Week will also see the ‘Power for Good’ award made to teachers, school support staff and youth workers who go beyond the call of duty to help children with issues such as bullying, relationships, family life and mental health. www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

For more information and ticket prices to Hever Castle please visit hevercastle.co.uk

Parents Eligible for Childcare Compensation Thousands of parents who have missed out on Tax-Free Childcare due to technical problems with the Childcare Service website may be able to claim compensation from the Government.

The Childcare Service website, which is run by HMRC, has been plagued with technical glitches since it went live in April, affecting parents’ ability to register for Tax-Free Childcare and 30 hours childcare.

In order to receive 30 hours free childcare in September, eligible parents needed to have received a code from HMRC by 31 August and taken it to their childcare provider to secure a place.

New guidance published on the gov.uk website under the heading ‘Childcare Service Compensation’ states that: ‘If you’ve been unable to access TaxFree Childcare through your childcare account for technical reasons, you may be able to claim compensation.’

Bubble bursts into Surrey Bubble, the babysitting app that allows parents to find, vet, book and pay trusted babysitters in their area has recently launched across Surrey.

The babysitting service has boomed in the capital with more than 10,000 parents and sitters currently using the app, scoring 9.3/10 on Trustpilot. Now, the company is venturing out of the capital for the first time, bringing its service to parents in Guildford, Woking, Godalming, and Croydon.

Parents in need of childcare can find a sitter within 43 seconds, by using the app’s “Express Book” feature.

The bubble app is completely free for babysitters who set their own hourly rates and keep 100% of what they earn. For parents, bubble charges a £3.50 booking fee at the end of each sit. There are no sign-up or subscription costs for either user.

To find out more, visit http://joinbubble.com or download the app on iOS or Android.

For more information call HMRC on 0300 123 4097 or visit www.gov. uk/guidance/childcare-servicecompensation

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Families London Surrey Borders 5

Education News The Minster Nursery and Infant School receive a grant from The National Lottery At the start of this new academic year The Minster Nursery and Infant School have continued to strive for excellence.

The school was lucky enough to be awarded a grant from The National Lottery which we used to buy a new mud kitchen, sensory gardens and new play equipment. These items are used to stimulate the childs learning. It also enables the teachers’ observations on of the childs understanding of the world we live in, encourages role play and use of language. The arrival of all this new equipment enhances our new reception playground, which we had refurbished just a few years ago. We had new wet pour playground surface laid with a new climbing frame and slide. The reception children now enjoy new opportunities in their outdoor classroom.

For more information visit www. minsterinfants.co.uk

Red Robin Montessori nursery provides a stimulating, nurturing home from home Red Robin are an established pre-school and day nursery, located in a grand Victorian detached manor house in Thornton Heath, Croydon, only a 5-minute walk from Thornton Heath train station with greet links into London.

The five well-resourced rooms are designed to meet children’s specific stage of development with an expert and caring team who consistently receive complimentary reports and endorsements from local parents.

The nursery provides the best in high quality caring childcare and education for young minds and are one of the few local nurseries to use the Montessori method which celebrates a child-centered educational approach and nurtures each child’s intrinsic desire to learn.

Food is freshly prepared by the nursery chef each day and children enjoy a large outdoor terraced play area and a spacious lawned garden as well as weekly classes for dance, football, Spanish and gymnastics.

Red Robin provide care for babies from 6 months up to the age of five in preparation for school and the opening hours are Monday to Friday 7.45 a.m. to 6.30 p.m.

Red Robin is registered with OFSTED the inspectorate for nurseries. And have a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating and our high standard of child provision means we have happy children and happy parents. For more information or to arrange a visit see www.redrobinmontessori.co.uk

Explore learning are helping you making the most of your recent school parent’s meetings!

So you’ve been to a meeting with your child’s teacher and you’ve got an overview of how your child is progressing. But what do you do next to help?

•

Spaces available at Kiwi’s Pre-School from January 2018 The team at Kiwi’s have always believed that, with childhoods seemingly getting shorter, it is important that children enjoy their precious time while being prepared for starting school and this is exactly the care your child will receive at Kiwi’s.

They have a site in Woodmansterne, Banstead and Redhill, each boasting a wonderful team of childcare practitioners who all share Kiwi’s statement of “Learning through play.”

They offer the professional care required by Ofsted while ensuring a safe environment looked for by parents.

Kiwi’ Preschools offer children care from 18 months 0 5 years of age. Free Funding accepted for 2-5-year olds with the 30 hours funding available.

For more information contact Catherine on 07899654463 or email kiwis_cac1@sky.com or visit www. kiwisplaygrouppreschool.co.uk 6 Families London Surrey Borders

Discuss with your child the feedback from their teacher, they may already be aware of what they need to work on but if they don’t, talk about it. Set a goal together of something they would like to achieve based on their feedback and aim to complete this by the end of next term. Make a plan together about how they are going to get there.

For example: You’re told they give up every time they have to learn something new, especially times tables. The goal you come up with together is to have a can-do attitude.

Steps to getting there could be taking a new set of tables and learning them in small batches. Praise them for the ones they have got right alongside highlighting when they are being positive towards their learning so they know what kind of attitude is expected.

•

If you’ve set any goals with the teacher, then plan a time to review these. Depending on how the teacher likes to work this could be an email, call or face to face catch up 6-8 weeks after the initial meeting. Review how things are going and make changes if needed.

•

You may come away from a meeting and realise you’ve forgotten something or you don’t understand how the school is reporting on progress. Contact the school if you still have questions, or look on their website as you should find a wealth of information on there.

•

Ask others for help, don’t worry if you don’t understand something or want to know what others are doing. Lots of people will be in the same position so talk to fellow parents for advice. Alternatively, there are some great advice websites like www. theschoolrun.co.uk and www.oxfordowl.co.uk or if you have a tutor, talk to them.

At Explore Learning our tutors always help parents when they need advice and will take into account your child’s recent reports and feedback when tailoring their learning. Never be afraid to ask, there is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your child’s learning!

For more information on Explore Learning, and to find your nearest centre please visit www.explorelearning.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas News

Hans Christmas Andersen, the new name at Santa Fir Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm, situated between Shamley Green and Cranleigh, is delighted to announce new branding. We are the same family, growing the same great trees but with a new name. Also new are ‘Wreath Making’ classes set in our workroom, along with pottery painting workshops by Firing Earth. Details of these are available on our website and booking is essential.

Brain Tumour Research has taken an innovative approach to this year’s range of Christmas cards Pioneering charity Brain Tumour Research has taken an innovative approach to their range of Christmas cards this year, signing up supporter and artist, Caroline Copland, to design a new card for 2017.

Caroline, who sadly lost her mother Janet to a brain tumour three years ago, was inspired by the Christmas Hope Trees which decorate the charity’s Research Centres of Excellence across the UK each year.

The Hope Tree cards will join other festive favourites in the charity’s range. All cards are priced at £4 per pack of ten, with at least 60% of the proceeds going towards supporting vital brain tumour research.

Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK focused on funding sustainable research to find a cure for brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.

Order via: www.braintumourresearch.org/ fundraise/christmas-cards

In addition, at weekends, there is a free Barrel Train ride, Santa in his Grotto, plus the 140 Field Cafe, who will be selling hot and cold refreshments, heavy horse and carriage rides, complimentary hot berry juice as well as two wonderful Christmas shops! On December 9/10th and 16th/17th we also have our Local Produce Market at the farm. Late night opening on 8th and 15th December from 6pm to 8pm, refreshments will be available from140 Field Café. New for this year, the opportunity to pick your own tree from one of our plantations.

This is available from Monday to Friday only from 10am to 4pm. Please visit www. hanschristmasandersen.co.uk for dates and more details.

Top ways to write to Santa Gone are the days of sending letters up the chimney with present requests! Now contacting Santa is an altogether more fun and exciting mission.

Top ways to get in touch include: •

The Royal Mail: Write to the man in red by December 8 and get a personal letter back.

See www.royalmail.com/letters-to-santa for more info.

•

Write an email to Santa at emailsanta.com and he will send you a reply faster than Rudolph can fly!

•

You can surprise your children with a personalised letter from Father Christmas whilst helping to raise funds for the NSPCC. All letters are age-appropriate and come with beautiful illustrations. Request your letter delivered via RudolphMail at www.nspcc.org.uk (suggested donation £5).

•

Get a personalised video from Santa using Portable North Pole App at www. portablenorthpole.com/en/ and Santa will commend those with good behaviour and offer a few words of encouragement for those naughty ones!

The MultiSports Group Change your game

MultiSports

Amersham&Chorleywood Sutton & Cheam Weekend sports for boys and girls aged 4 - 16 of all abilities

Tel: 0844 012933350450 774051 www.multisports.co.uk ENROLLING NOW FORFOR OUR OUR AUTUMN TERM WORKSHOP ENROLLING NOW SUMMER WORKSHOP IN JULY AND AUTUMN TERM IN SEPTEMBER

Extensive variety of sports – Professional coaches – Ofsted registered - Childcare vouchers

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Families London Surrey Borders 7

Entertaining the kids Christmas time is a busy time, with so much to do and preparations to make. Here at Families LSB we have put together some great ideas for you to do with your little ones whilst the other half is doing any last minute preparations for the big day.

Busylizzy Sutton would love you to try one of their FREE taster classes ahead of opening in January 2018 * Mummy & Me Buggy fitness * Baby Yoga * Mummy & Me Pilates * Baby Massage * Baby Signing * Baby Karma * Mums to be Pilates * Baby Picassos * Mummy & Me Aerobics * Baby Boogie All classes held at Riverside Centre, 113 Culvers Avenue, Carshalton, SM5 2FJ, with the exception of Mummy & Me Buggy fitness which will be at Beddington Park, Wallington, SM6 7NN. Visit www.busylizzysutton.co.uk/classes to find out more information about each class.

the spirit of Bounce your way into Freejumping Christmas at Oxygen

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IVE ST FE e cod booking by using

Go bird watching with a warden on 10 December at WWT London Wetland Centre This practical session will help you identify different birds and to understand more about them. An expert warden will guide you around the wildlife reserve and you’ll get tips on how to watch birds including fieldcraft, what to listen out for and the differences between key species. 9.30-11am. www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london

rner Find yourself a cosy co and get creative. e names off your You may even tick som e studios near you; present list. Here are som , Road, Purley, CR8 2LN Get Fired, 914 Brighton All zed Gla y, Wa tion Village Ceramics, 31 Sta Wallington, SM6 9AY Over, 102 Stafford Road, 8 Families London Surrey Borders

Get your skates on….

Here are the opening dates to all the Open-Air Ice Rinks we could find Ice skating at The Children’s Trust Christmas Fair Sat 25 Nov 12pm - 4pm www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink 24 Nov - 7 Jan www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk The Royal Pavillion Ice Rink 4 Nov – 14 Jan www.royalpavilionicerink.co.uk Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink 20 Nov – 7 Jan www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Lumino City Ice Rink Canary Wharf 4 Nov – 24 Feb www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk Natural History Museum 26 Oct – 7 Jan www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/exhibitions/ice-rink Tower of London 17 Nov - 2 Jan www.toweroflondonicerink.co.uk Winter Wonderland 17 Nov - 1 Jan www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Bath, on Ice 17 Nov – 2 Jan www.bathonice.com Cambridge Open Air Ice Rink 17 Nov - 8 Jan www.thenorthpolecambridge.co.uk Canary Wharf Ice Rink - London’s 5-star Ice Rink 4 Nov – 24 Feb www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk Reigate on Ice 30 Nov - 3 Jan www.reigateonice.co.uk Royal Tunbridge Wells Ice Rink 17 Nov - 1 Jan www.tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com Skate at Somerset House with Fortnum & Mason 15 Nov - 14 Jan www.somersethouse.org.uk/ice-rink Wembley Park Ice Rink 18 Nov -2 Jan www.goldentours.com/ice-skating-atwembley-park

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My Gym Wallington Practice & Play

Go and see Pinocchio Our top event this month has got to be a pantomime, and our favourite is the offering from the National Theatre, following hot on the heels of last year’s magnificent Peter Pan. On a quest to be truly alive, Pinocchio leaves Geppetto’s workshop with Jiminy Cricket in tow. Their electrifying adventure takes them from alpine forests to Pleasure Island to the bottom of the ocean. This spectacular new production is brought to the stage by an extraordinary team including the director of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and See pg the writer of Matilda the 13 for more Musical. amazing Panto’s

My Gyms unique purpose-built Children’s Fitness Centre turns into a drop-in free play 3 times a week!

Jump on the trampoline, ride on our swings, soar on the zip wire, dive into the ball pool, swing on the monkey bars or practice your gymnastics! FREE for members, £5 for non-members, ages 6 weeks to 13 years, no booking necessary!

Current Schedule: Tuesdays 12.45pm to 2.45pm (during term-time), Wednesdays 3pm to 5pm. Once a week on either Friday, Saturday or Sunday Afternoon.

Don’t miss My Gym Wallington Grand Opening Enrolment Parties! From 12 – 19 Novemebr. Please visit www.mygym.com/wallington or email wallington@mygym.com to join the mailing list and stay updated on timings!

On those cold wet winters days get lost in a book at your nearest library Local libraries all have a great variety of drop in sessions for all age groups to enjoy. Visit your local library to see what activities they have on this winter.

showing this

Christmas Buy your tickets now!

Playing at the National Theatre from 1 December.

Visit www.nationaltheatre.org. uk for more information

Croydon - www.croydonlibraries.com Sutton – www.arena.yourlondonlibrary.net Surrey and Epsom -www.surreycc.gov.uk/libraries

We are very lucky to have some great soft play centre’s where you can enjoy a cuppa and let the kiddies loose. Which one is nearest to you …….

Little Lambs Soft Play, 38-40 Chipstead Valley Road, Coulsdon Jupiter Jo’s Soft Play Café, Cox Lane, West Ewell, KT19 9PS Bouncing Bunnies Soft Play Café, 1st Nork Scouts Hut (St. Paul’s) Warren Road, Nork, SM7 1LG Once Upon A Time Soft Play, Epsom Square, 7 The Derby Square, Epsom, KT19 8AG The Good Ship Lollypop Kink Stadium, Morden, SM4 6BF Mother Kitty’s, Rickman Hill Park, Coulsdon, CR5 3DU Kids Space, The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon, CR0 4RQ NEW - Rugrats Stay and Play Café, The Royal British Legion Hall, Mickleham Gardens Cheam

Visit Santa Every child delights in meeting Santa and his Elves. We have the biggest selections Christmas events and places to see Santa this Christmas on page 10.

ADAPTED FROM JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER’S AWARD-WINNING PICTURE BOOK

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Families London Surrey Borders 9

What’s on this Christmas Sat 25 Nov Children’s trust Christmas Fair Come along to our Children’s Trusts annual Christmas Fair is back and we are inviting you to come along to enjoy all of the festive favourites! Visit Santa in his Grotto, Skating rink, Christmas arts and crafts and much more

Experience a Magical Christmas at Bocketts Farm, as Father Christmas returns From 23rd November to 24th December, children can hop on board the Santa Express to his magical hay barn workshop. Once inside, each child will meet Father Christmas and receive a gift. Advance online booking now available! Visit bockettsfarm.co.uk for dates, prices and availability. Also this December there will be 25 gorgeous new born lambs due, a children’s craft area, Christmas trail and plenty of indoor play.

Visit www.bockettsfarm.co.uk for more information and to book tickets.

Sat 11 Nov 1 – 4pm Christmas Market St Augustine Church Kent, CR2 6BA Find the perfect gift for all your family and friends.

19 Nov Hamleys Christmas Toy Parade 188-196 Regent Street W1B 5BT The finest toy shop in the world brings once again the magic of Christmas to the festive shopping season this November. London’s Regent Street will be transformed in a traffic-free, all-day extravaganza for the biggest toy parade London has ever seen.

Wed 22 Nov – Mon 1 Jan, 5pm – 10pm Christmas at Kew As twilight falls…the magic begins…

As they embark on the trail, visitors can expect a magical world that will fill hearts with seasonal cheer. The festive adventure will begin with a path lit by hundreds of illuminated globes winding through glittering trees festooned with silvery shards of light, snowflakes and stars. (timed entries between 5pm – 7.40pm).

Sat 25 Nov, 10am-12.30am or 1.304pm Family Christmas Decoration Making Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW Come along for a morning or afternoon session of creating Christmas wreaths and other decorations from the natural materials of Gatton Park. £10 Fri 24 Nov, 4pm – 5pm Is it Christmas Yet? Honeywood Museum, SM5 3NX We will be making festive favours, a Christmas card, listening to Christmas music and enjoying a Christmas story. £2.50.

Sat 25 Nov, 11 – 3pm St Martin’s Church Christmas Fair St Martins Church, KT17 4PX Lots of fun and entertainment for all the family.

10 Families London Surrey Borders

Mon 27 Nov & Mon 11, Dec 5- 8pm Late Night Shopping and Christmas Craft Fair Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA Original gifts, music, carolling, free mulled wine and mince pies.

Free admission and car parking.

Thurs 30 Nov, 5 – 8pm Banstead Christmas Community Event Banstead High Sreet Street Entertainment, Father Christmas, Kids Treasure Hunt, Special Guest, High Street Shopping Offers.

Sat 2 Dec, 1pm-5pm Friends of Sutton Ecology Centre Sutton Ecology Centre, The Old Rectory, SM5 3NY Suitable for everyone. The Friends of Sutton Ecology Centre will be holding their annual Christmas Fair, with handcrafted gifts, hot drinks and a collection of delicious homemade soups and cakes.

Sat 2 Dec Winter Wonderland Trail, 1pm-4pm Sutton Ecology Centre, The Old Rectory, SM5 3NY Suitable for families with young children. Someone’s stolen Santa’s sack … how are we going to get it back?

Follow the animal clues and explore the delights of Sutton Ecology Centre to find Santa’s missing sack of toys. £4 per child, includes small gift per child.

Fri 1 Dec, 5 – 8pm Ewell Yule Come on down to Ewell Village High Street on Friday 1st December from 5pm for Ewell Yule! The annual traders and community event returns bigger and better than ever! The Ewell St Mary’s Morris Men will be dancing the night away outside The Famous Green Man, school choirs will sing carols, local bands performing and we may even have a pantomime this year! There will also be rides and amusements for children, shopping stalls and food from our many shops and restaurants. Its a great night out for all the family.

Sat 2 Dec, 2pm & 3pm Woodland Storytelling Sutton Ecology Centre, The Old Rectory, SM5 3NY Come and hear the colourful tale of the Little Wolf and the Old Crocodile, in our special storytelling tent, with fairylights, music and puppets. Performance is approx 20 minutes. Ticket price includes entrance to the Sutton Ecology Centre Winter Wonderland Trail. £7 per child. Booking essential.

Suitable for children 3yrs+ Sat 2- Sun 24 Dec Stocking Trail Battersea Park children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ Which of our animals has put out a stocking for Santa? When visiting the zoo be sure to count up the number of Christmas stockings you see! Hand your guess in to the shop for a chance to win a Family Day Ticket to the zoo.

Entrance fee applies.

Sun 3 Dec & Sun 10 Dec, 1pm-3:30pm Santa’s Grotto Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW Enjoy a golf buggy ride to Santa in his grotto, explore the grounds following a trail of clues and then return to Gatton Hall to make a Christmas decoration. Book a timeslot for your buggy ride & grotto visit online. £5 per child.

Thurs 7 Dec, 5.30–9.30pm Horniman Christmas Market Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ Enjoy a special late night Christmas shopping experience with gorgeous gifts, mulled wine, workshops and your favourite festive tunes. The Museum will be filled with stalls and products by local designers and makers, craft breweries, music and dancing. Bring your friends and make an evening of it!

Free entry.

Hans Christmas Andersen at Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm On Guildford Road between Shamley Green and Cranleigh. For sat navs the postcode is GU5 0SQ. 01483 271770.

Come and see Father Christmas arrive at Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm on Sat 2nd December at midday, all welcome. Visit Santa in his grotto (£3 per child) with all proceeds going to local charities, no booking required and all children get a present. There is also a special Santa letter box where you can post a letter to Father Christmas.

Ride the Barrel Train through the plantation and past the reindeer, free of charge. Also available is heavy horse and carriage rides, there are no age restrictions.

All the above attractions (including Santa’s Grotto) are available on 2/3rd, 9/10th and 16/17th Dec from 10am to 4pm. There are lots of fresh home grown Christmas trees to choose from and fantastic shops for decorations and gifts, so why not get your fresh Christmas tree at the same time as visiting Santa? At the weekend’s there is complimentary hot berry juice and a must see are the beautiful resident reindeer.

Shop in the local produce market on 9/10th, 16/17th Dec. Christmas Tree Farm is open daily 9am-6pm from 21 Nov closing on 24 Dec at 3pm. Late night opening 8th and 15th Dec from 6pm to 8pm.

Sat 9 Dec, 10am-12noon & 1pm-3pm Wildlings Family Fun Winter Willow Crafts Sutton Ecology Centre,The Old Rectory, SM5 3NY Come along to learn how to make some simple seasonal crafts from willow.

There will also be plenty of opportunity for free play and exploration in our beautiful woods at Sutton Ecology Centre. Campfire hot chocolate will be served to keep us warm! £9 per child.

Visit www.hanschristmasandersen. co.uk for directions and further details and late night opening offer.

Sat 9 Dec, 10am-12noon & 1pm-3pm Winter Wreath Making Sutton Ecology Centre, The Old

Sat 9 Dec, 11 am to 2pm Christmas Extravaganza - Craft Stalls & Real Christmas Trees Fancourt Hall, Stoneleigh, KT19 0RJ Many individual craft stalls selling great variety of gifts. Real Christmas Trees (different sizes and prices) on sale from 9am. till 3pm.

This Christmas Hever Castle will celebrate the history behind some of the best-known Christmas carols Walk through the rooms of the Castle to discover the ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ trail and wander through the illuminated gardens as dusk falls.

Ride the carousel and enjoy vintage fairground stalls, meet characters along the trail, hug a husky and take your photo as a memento and children can join a free craft workshop to make an angel.

Kids will have the opportunity to visit Santa in his Grotto on a first come first served basis and will receive an age-appropriate gift. Tickets cost £8.00 and can only be purchased in the grounds on the day.

For further information about Christmas activities and prices, see hevercastle. co.uk/whats-on

Rectory, SM5 3NY Suitable for: adults only 16yrs+ Come and enjoy a relaxing time collecting materials to make your own all-natural winter wreath to take home.

Your door will be the talk of the town!

Includes a mince pie and hot drink. £16 per adult. Booking essential.

Sat 9 Dec, 1 – 5pm Christmas Market at St Johns St Johns the Devine Church, CR2 8DD Come and get some lovely gifts for all your family.

Dec 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th Santa Specials Rural Life Centre, Farnham Mums and dads, grannies and granddads will find the place as enchanting as the children, with a ride through the woods on the Old Kiln Light Railway, a visit to the elves’ workshop and depending on the day, a chance to see sheep and donkeys at close hand. Twinkling lights, Christmas familiesonline.co.uk

music and seasonal refreshments are included and of course, in their magical grotto Father and Mother Christmas will give a present to each child. £12.50 for children (gift included), adults £7.50 .

Fri 15 Dec - 24 Dec, 10am - 4.30pm Santa is coming to Battersea Park Children’s Zoo Battersea Park children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ Santa is coming to the zoo! Come and tell him what you’d like for Christmas, meet his favourite guinea pigs and enjoy visiting the rest of the zoo and play area.

Sat 16 Dec, 10.30am–4.30pm Horniman Christmas Fair Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ Join in the festivities and get into the spirit of the season at our Christmas Fair. Pick up your seasonal produce at our Farmers’ Market, take part in festive themed craft workshops, and enjoy a carol concert with mince pies and mulled wine. Free entry Sat 16 Dec Christmas in the Trenches Bourne Hall Museum Discover how the troops managed to celebrate, refusing to allow the harsh conditions to dampen their festive cheer.

Did all the troops celebrate Christmas on the right day? Learn how gifts from the home front were organised and encouraged by royalty, and find out the whole story behind the Christmas truce of 1914. Meet a soldier and hear how Christmas in the trenches was made a relief from the horrors of fighting.

17 Nov – 1 Jan Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Winter Wonderland returns to London’s Hyde Park for the 11th year, and it’s always such a great day out (not cheap mind you!) including ice skating, big top shows, an observation wheel and a huge

AS SEEN ON

Christmas market.

Thurs 21 Dec, 10am-11am or 1.30pm2.30pm Christmas Crafts (3-7yrs) Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW Get the glitter out! Christmas decorations for younger children. £5 per child.

Enjoy an enchanting Christmas at Hobbledown Hobbledown Children’s Farm, KT19 8PT Hobbledowns magical Grotto will be open from Saturday 25th November throughout selected dates until December 24th. Back by popular demand will be the Christmas Toddler Lunches and Tea with Santa for slightly older children too. They are also introducing a Toddler Brunch so the children going to playschool can still enjoy the experience.

Denbies Santa’s Cellar Grotto Denbies Wine Estate, Rh5 6AA Enjoy a warm welcome from Santa`s elves! Outdoor train ride followed by a visit to see Father Christmas in his Cellar Grotto and tell him your Christmas wishes. £8.00 per child which includes a gift from Santa, train ride, Santa`s sticker book and Christmas crafts in Santa`s cellar. (please note that the gifts are suitable from birth and up, therefore all children are required to have a ticket) £2.50 per adult which includes the train ride and mince pies in the cellar.

Christmas at Birdworld Birdworld, GU10 4LD Visit Birdworld this Christmas to meet Santa’s reindeer and some of their friendly farm animals before you enter a magical world full of animated characters in winter wonderland settings.

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Banstead, Ewell, Claygate and Esher E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223309 Dorking, Fetcham, Walton on the Hill, Ashtead and South Epsom E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8432 0811

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Families London Surrey Borders 11

Christmas with the National Trust

Tues 26 Dec- Sat 6 Jan Twelve Dogs of Christmas: winter walkies For the first time, our four-legged family members are invited in to the garden. We’re ready with walking routes, a free Ham bone for each new guest over the 12 days and a prize for our first Christmas dog of the day!NAA

Morden Hall Park SM4 5JD Sat 25 & Sun 26 Nov, 2, 3, 9 & 10 Dec, 10am -5pm Visit Father Christmas Have they been good this year?

Come and see Father Christmas in his grotto in Morden Hall Park’s Stableyard.

Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Wed 1 Nov & Wed 6 Dec, 2-3.30pm Winkworth Wednesday Walk Meet at the kiosk for a seasonal guided walk. Guided walk is free, NAA. Fri 24 Nov & Fri 29 Dec 11am12.30pm Exploring the Arboretum Meet at the kiosk for a seasonal guided walk. Well-behaved dogs on a short lead are welcome. Guided walk is free, NAA. Sun 3 Dec 11am-1pm Wreath Making Make a beautiful wreath with materials collected from the Arboretum. £30 per wreath. NAA. Fri 22 Dec- Mon 1 Jan, 10am- 3pm Winter Wonders Trail Follow a traditional Christmas Children’s trail around the Arboretum and enjoy the spirit of the season.

50p for trail, NAA.

celebrate Christmas.

50p for trail, NAA.

For more information about the National Trust, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Runnymede and Ankerwycke, SL4 2JL Sat 4 Nov 11am-1pm Fungi Foray Take a walk through the woods with a fungi expert to see what strange mushrooms grow at Runnymede.

Adult £6, Child £3.

Sat 9 Dec- Sun 7 Jan 10.30-3.30pm King John’s Christmas trail.

Discover how King John would have celebrated Christmas in the Middle Ages. 50p per trail

Mon 1 Jan, 2-3pm New Year Walk Meet at the kiosk to kick start the new year with a seasonal guided walk around the Arboretum. £3 per person, NAA.

Ham House and Garden, TW10 7RS

12 Families London Surrey Borders

Sat 2, 3, 9, 10, 21, 22Dec, 11am 3pm Visit Father Christmas Meet Father Christmas in his cosy sitting room. Each child will meet Father Christmas and receive a wrapped present from him.

Tue 26 Dec- Wed 3 Jan, 10am-3pm Winter Wonders Trail A seasonal family Hunt. 50p for trail, NAA.

Tue 26 Dec, 1-2.30pm Boxing Day Walk Bring family and friends to walk off the mince pies with a stroll around the Arboretum. £3 per person, NAA.

Sat 9- Sat 23 Dec 10am-3pm Georgian Christmas trail Find out how our ancestors used to

From Fri 1 Dec, 10.30am – 4pm Christmas children’s trail Pick up a trail sheet from reception and follow the story of the mice who made the Silent Night, spotting our cheeky little mice hiding around the park, and find out where they have made their nest for the winter.

Sat 23 11am-12pm &1-2pm Santa Paws Dogs deserve Christmas treats too.

Bring your furry friend to meet Santa Paws. NAA. + £2/ dog min donation.

Wed 6 Dec 10.30-12.30 and 1.303.30pm, Wreath Making Make a festive wreath using traditional skills and natural materials gathered locally in Surrey. £30 per Wreath

Tue 5 Dec 10.30- 12.45pm 1.45-4pm Wreath Making workshop Make a beautiful wreath with materials collected from the Arboretum.

30 per wreath. NAA. Including hot drink and mince pie.

Hatchlands Park Surrey, GU4 7RT

Sat 9 & Sun 10, Father Christmas in the grotto Bookings open 9am on 17th Oct. Booking Essential, 01372 476436

Sat 16 and Sun 17 Dec, 11am-12pm & 1-2pm Santa Paws Dogs deserve Christmas treats too.

Bring your furry friend to meet Santa Paws. NAA. + £2/ dog min donation.

Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG

Sat 25 & Sun 26 Nov, 2, 3, 9 & 10 Dec, 10am – 5 pm Make & Take Christmas crafts Children of all ages will enjoy these traditional craft activities, which will fill your home with the spirit

of Christmas. We will be making pomanders and real beeswax candles.

Bring a little sparkle to your Christmas at a National Trust property near you Enjoy fun festive activities and events at Morden Hall Park and Polesden Lacey this Christmas.

Sat 2 Dec to Fri 15 Dec, 12-4pm Mistletoe and Merriment: Christmas with the Stuarts Find out how to celebrate a restoration Christmas, when King Charles II brought music, food and celebration back! NAA Sat 16 - Sat 23 Dec, 11am-4pm Father Christmas has moved in!

Father Christmas has made himself at home this Christmas. Come and visit Father Christmas in his new home, he’s feeling generous! Please see our website for further details and booking.NAA.BE. £5 per child.

#nationaltrust

Call 0344 800 1895 for details nationaltrust.org.uk

© National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846.

Photography © National Trust Images\Rob Stothard. familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas Shows and Pantos

Epsom Playhouse KT18 5AL www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk SANTA CLAUS AND HIS MAGICAL ADVENTURE Fri Dec - Sun 24 Dec A Brand New Christmas Adventure!

With songs, stories, a met and greet with Santa and a free gift CINDERELLA Fri 15 Dec - Sun 7 Jan Join Cinderella on a pumpkin coach ride through pantoland! There’s only one problem, Cinders’ ugly sisters and wicked step-mum make her clean all day and it’s really not fair. She needs you! Plus some support from her best friend Buttons and maybe a bit of help from a certain fairy Godmother!

doesn’t like the answer! Poor Snow White is banished to the forest where she stumbles upon and befriends seven dwarves. However, with the evil Queen in hot pursuit it’s not long before she tricks Snow White into eating a deadly apple. Will the dwarves be able to save the day and find a handsome Prince to wake Snow White with his kiss? All will be revealed as they encourage you to boo, hiss, cheer and shout ‘he’s behind you’ in this hilarious musical pantomime.

New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, SW19 1QG atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre

LEATHERHEAD OPERATIC SOCIETY PRESENTS SCROOGE Wed 29 Nov - Sat 2 Dec Join Jacob Marley and the other spirits in Charles Dickens’ most loved story as they show the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge the error of his ways in this heart-warming musical based on “A Christmas Carol”.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 9 Dec – 14 Jan Follow Jack, his hapless brother and his mother Dame Trot and climb a beanstalk of gigantic proportions to cloudland in this spectacular family pantomime. Doomed to sell his trusty cow, join Jack as he fights to save the beautiful Princess, outwit the evil giant and win riches beyond his wildest dreams, and the hand of the girl he loves.

Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com

The Lilian Bayliss Studio Roseberry Avenue EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com

THE SNOW QUEEN 17 Nov – 4 Feb Kai and Gerda are best friends. Not brother and sister but as close as if they were. Together with their friends, they reimagine the thrilling adventure of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic winter fairy-tale. Let your imagination soar as a dusty attic is transformed into the Snow Queen’s icy palace, and follow their epic journey of selfdiscovery, as they try to save Kai from the icy spell of the Snow Queen’s cold kiss. Can Gerda melt his heart before he forgets her forever?

THE LITTLE MATCH GIRL 13-24 Dec Our unlikely heroine is an impoverished young street girl, who wanders the ever-darkening streets with just one final match to keep her warm on a cold Christmas Eve. Beautifully recreated through dance, song and live atmospheric music, The Little Match Girl is a timeless fable about kindness and helping others, which will enthral young children and the whole family alike. Age 5+

Colour House Theatre Watermill Way SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES Sat and Sun 18 Nov – 21 Jan “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” The evil Queen familiesonline.co.uk

Lyric Hammersmith One Lyric Square W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk RAYMOND BRIGGS FATHER CHRISTMAS 22 Nov – 24 Dec Back for another brilliant year, join Father Christmas as he gets ready for his busiest day of the year, Christmas Eve. Watch as he prepares his

Christmas deliveries, feeds his reindeer and finally takes flight into the snowy night. A perfect festive treat for under 6s and their families.

Peacock Theatre WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com/ peacock-theatre THE SNOWMAN 23 Nov – 31 Dec A perennial family favourite, The Snowman has transported a generation of children into the wintery world of a boy and his magical snowman. As a friendship is kindled, the two embark on a starry-skied adventure to the North Pole, where they meet dancing penguins, reindeer, Father Christmas and escape the clutches of Jack Frost.

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice, Blomfield Road W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS TREE 2 Dec – 7 Jan The Little Christmas Tree is a bit wonky, so no one wants to buy it… That is until a young boy called Joe turns up and finds himself drawn to the tree. All he has to do now is get the rest of his family to agree to buy the tree and not to throw it away in the New Year. This new Christmas production combines exquisitely carved wooden marionettes and beautiful shadow puppets to tell the poignant story of the unique

friendship between a boy and a little Christmas tree.

Sadler’s Wells Rosebery Avenue EC1R www.sadlerswells.com MATTHEW BOURNE’S CINDERELLA 9 Dec – 27 Jan Following the sold-out and critical success of The Red Shoes, New Adventures return to Sadler’s Wells this Christmas with one of our most popular and beloved productions, Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella – a thrilling and evocative love story set in London during the Second World War, which forms part of the company’s 30th anniversary celebrations.

Ambassadors Theatre West Street WC2H 9ND www.hungrycaterpillarshow. com/london THE VERY HUNGRY CATERILLAR 13 Dec – 7 Jan One of the most iconic characters in children’s literature will be wiggling his way back into the West End this Christmas. Featuring a menageries of 75 loveable puppets!

Lyric Theatre W1D 7ES

THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD 22 Nov – 7 Jan One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warning and tiptoes out into the snow.

After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist… does he? …Fresh from the incredible West End success of The Gruffalo, Tall Stories adapts Julia Donaldsonand Axel Scheffler’s sequel into a magical stage production that will enchant any young theatregoer. Featuring plenty of music, interactive songs, laughter and scary fun, The Gruffalo’s Child is guaranteed to be a monster hit.

Visit www.lyrictheatrelondon.co.uk/the-gruffalos- child for more information, or to book your tickets.

Families London Surrey Borders 13

What’s On

Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ...and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families London-Surrey Borders!

Tuesday and Wednesday My Gym Christmas Camp My Gym Wallington, 4 Melbourne Road, Wallington ,SM6 8SY Look out for our Christmas Arts and Crafts Camp for ages 3+ where children will play Christmas games, decorate the Gym and be served delicious refreshments. Email wallington@mygym.com for more information. 12.25pm-2.55pm during School Holidays Every Mon in Nov & Dec Little Explorers Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Bring your little ones to enjoy crafts, outdoor activities, songs and stories.

Little Explorers is a fun activity session for children aged 2-5, 10am, £2 per child, £1 siblings.

Sat 11 Nov, 9am - 1pm Wallington Farmers Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Wallington SM6 0NB Quality local produce direct from the producer.

Sat 11 Nov, 1pm Friends of Selsdon Woods - Final walk for 2017 Meet in the Selsdon Wood Car Park off Old Farleigh Road Selsdon All our walks are slow and easy lasting around 2 hours. They are suitable for adults and accompanied children. If there has been recent rain there may be muddy parches so suitable footwear should be worn.

Sat 11 November, 3.30pm -5:30pm Wallingdon Mum2Mums Nearly New Sale The Centre, SM6 9RP Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby & children’s stuff Sat 11 Nov, 10-12pm Croydon Mum2Mums Nearly New Sale Addiscombe Catholic Church, CR0 7EN Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby & children’s stuff.

Sat 11 Nov, 10am-12noon Build a Bird Box 6+ years Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW

Family workshop to build a bird box and various kinds of bird feeders to take home.£10 Sat 18 Nov 10.30am start Gujarati Yatra Family Events Day Croydon Clocktower Museum of Croydon, CR9 1ET A programme of Gujarati inspired music, costume, stoytelling and art & craft events in various locations across the venue. Join us for a fabulous day celebrating the launch of our new exhibition!

Sat 18 Nov, 3pm - 4.30pm NCT Nearly New Sale St Andrew’s Church, Cheam, SM2 7HF Top quality baby and children’s clothes and equipment at bargain prices. £1 per adult.

Sun 19 Nov, 11.30am-1pm and 2-3.30pm SoundHoppers Family Workshop British Library, 96 Euston Road NW1 2DB Get involved in sound experiments and explore different qualities of sound through engaging games and fun listening exercises. Free Sun 19 Nov, 1pm – 4pm Days of steam Horton Country Park Meet at the Information Centre Walk around Horton Country Park Local Nature Reserve with a member of the Countryside Team and discover the days when steam engines ran through the country park. £5 per adult Under 16 £2.50 Mon 20 Nov, Doors open at 10am Bach to Broadway Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed classical concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers.

Sat 25 Nov–Sun 14 Jan British Wildlife Photography Awards 2017 Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ An exhibition of over 100 photographs that showcase the beauty and diversity of wildlife in Britain. From action to pattern, the extraordinary images were all taken by talented photographers

working in the UK ranging from established professionals to under-12s.

Free.

Sat 9 Dec– Sun 9 Sep Coral: Fabric of the Reef Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ Inspired by the Horniman’s Aquarium and Natural History collection, artist Karen Dodd uses woollen fabric – dyed and sculpted, and intricately bound and stitched – to draw attention to coral and coral reefs, simultaneously celebrating their beauty and raising awareness of their vulnerability in the face of increasing environmental change.

Free Sat 18 Nov, 6.30pm –9.30pm Youth Late Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ The Horniman Youth Panel take over the Museum with a night of live bands, DJs, photobooth and more. This event is for young people aged 14–19, organised by young people. Arrive early to be one of the 200 visitors to get a free wristband. Theme confirmed soon. Free Sat 25 Nov, 2pm -4pm Epsom Croydon Mum2Mums Nearly New Sale Ruxley Church Hall, KT19 0JG Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby & children’s stuff.

Sun 10 Dec, 10am – 4pm Vintage and Collectables Fair Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA Featuring Vintage & Collectables from c. 1920’s – 1980’s. Free admission and car parking Fri 22 Dec, 10am-11.30am or 1.30pm3pm Trails and Tales (2-4 yrs) Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW Enjoy the story of Stick Man and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. £7.50 per child.

Call 01923 775 680 or email editor@families-lsb.co.uk

We care for children from 18months – 5 years Ofsted registered – GOOD Free Funding accepted for 2-5 year olds 30 hours funding available Kiwi’s Meadvale Copse Road, Meadvale, Redhill

For more information please contact Catherine on 07899654463 or Email kiwis_cac1@sky.com

www.kiwisplaygrouppreschool.co.uk 14 Families London Surrey Borders

Sat 9 Dec, 9am to 1pm Wallington Farmers Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Wallington SM6 0NB Quality local produce direct from the producer

Book Today

Learning to play - Playing to learn

Kiwi’s Nork Nork Community Centre, Nork Way, Banstead

Sat 2 Dec Harry Potter Family Day British Library, 96 Euston Road NW1 2DB Explore the magic of the British Library at this fun family day. Visit the Harry Potter: A History of Magic exhibition, get creative in hands-on workshops and delve into the magical world of storytelling. Book in advance.

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Kiwi's Pre-schools Kiwi’s Woodmansterne Woodmansterne Village Hall, Carshalton Road.

Sat 2 Dec, 10am-12pm Sutton Mum2Mums Nearly New Sale Thomas Wall Centre, SM1 4DP Buy quality second hand and nearly new baby & children’s stuff

Spaces available for January 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

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