Families North London September/October 22 Digital

Can you believe the kids are back at school already? It seems like just a moment since they were breaking up!

Starting or going back to school can be challenging for children (and parents) so check out our advice on new term teething problems and inspire your kids with our great book recommendations.

Autumn is a beautiful time of year so take a look at our suggestions for activities to do with the kids outside. Enjoy our Autumn treasure hunt or try one of our family-friendly walk suggestions when half term rolls around. And, if you want to keep your kids off screens as the nights draw in, check out our half term screen-free kids’ activities too!

Finally, in this issue, we have tonnes of Action Heroes sets, some fun Sneezy Panda games, Mr Frosty toys and cool Marlo & Cole t-shirts to giveaway! By applying, you’ll also ensure you continue to receive our wonderful magazine!

In this issue

Road Safety for kids

Brilliant first chapter books

Autumn treasure hunt

Build a business - Rebel style

Clubs and Classes section

Escape Room offer Halloween treats Halloween Crafts

What's On this Autumn

Heads up on Panto

Get in touch

Competition winners from our May/June issue

Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list HERE

Make time to look after you

Co-ordinating wellbeing: re-energise and promote strength

Looking to improve your wellbe ing through an enjoyable physical activity? Then Tai Chi is for you. Mei Quan Academy Tai Chi teach er, Teresa Tsang, said: “Our beginners classes promote strength and general wellbeing both internally and externally. Our classes are very welcoming and enjoyable. Students always tell me how relaxed and re-energised they feel afterwards.”

The Mei Quan Academy has taught traditional Yang Style Tai Chi across London since 1992. Their experienced and inspiration al instructors teach all elements of Tai Chi and Qi Gong, from graceful steps to build core strength and co-ordination to elements of meditation practice. Both of which promote flexibility and relaxation. Everyone is welcome to join one of the academy’s classes across Lon don. Find classes near you at https://taichinews.com

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

Calling all young Scientists!

Help us discover how babies & kids learn!

We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s Babylab & ToddlerLab in central London Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses. We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www cbcd bbk ac uk/online-studies 020 3926 1207 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Aiming for the heights

The award-winning Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School has an exciting new theme for September — based on the much-loved works of Lin-Manuel Miranda, such as Encanto, Hamilton, Moana and In the Heights.

“It’s a really exciting time to be joining the school,” said founder and Principal Anna Fiorentini. The timetable of drama, singing, dance and film is taught by leading industry professionals and there is a chance to perform to family and friends in March. The school believes professional performing arts training needs to be accessible to all young people who wish to build confidence, life skills, or pursue a career in the arts industry. “Through our agency, many of our students have won leading roles,” said Anna. This includes BBC’s EastEnders, Chuggington and Small Axe on television, Swallows and Amazons on film, and Prince of Egypt, The Lion King, and Matilda in the West End. Find out more and book an obligation-free taster day. www.afperformingarts.com/ theatre-and-film-school/ schools/camden

OFFER

£3 offBack to lice

It’s not only time for back to school. For some of us it’s back to the headlice.

Families North London has teamed up with Nitty Gritty to offer readers £3 off its special comb that removes headlice AND eggs which means you don’t have to repeat comb. It needs no chemicals and comes with a lifetime guarantee. Readers can get £3 off at the Nitty Gritty website, where there is lots of info about headlice. Use code FNLCOMB until October 31 www.nittygritty.co.uk

Creating atmosphere: with Mary Poppins

On Hetty's trail MuseumWIN!

Dress as a foundling: find out what life was like

Victorian foundling Hetty Feather has captured the imaginations of young readers since the book by Jacqueline Wilson was first published in 2008.

It tells the tale of spirited Hetty and brings to life the stories of children who were left with the Foundling Hospital, in London. Now you can discover the home of Hetty Feather and find out what life was like with a visit to London’s Foundling Museum, Brunswick Square, WC1N. Find the interactive displays, have fun with the dressing up rail and explore the collections with an art-based Hetty trail!

This half-term the museum is running creative workshops – and is free for ages 21 and under.

Families North London has teamed up with the Foundling Museum to offer readers the chance to win a family ticket, two adults and two children, valid for 12 months. Competition closes October 31 2022. To enter

Adele Christofi School

Families North London was invited to Broomfield School to meet new headteacher Adele Christofi. Adele has a passion for ensuring her pupils have the best learning experience and opportunities. Now she is bringing her energy and years of leadership experience home to power Broomfield forward

How do you hope the children at Broomfield School will describe you?

I will hope that they will say that I’ve got very high expectations of them, that I listen and that I work alongside them to make sure they have the best experience and opportunities.

What was it about the school that made you want to apply for the post?

It’s a privilege to be able to lead a school where I can give back to a community where my journey into headship began, and I could see it is on an upward journey. The children in the school currently are great young people. They are curious, polite. They have good relationships with their teachers. They ask questions and they have passions,

and ambition to do well. They love being in this school. I could see that there is a lot of care that goes into young people here. Can a head can make a difference to individual pupils?

Absolutely. It’s about being a visible presence, taking an interest in your young people’s lives — and having an honesty and a transparency with them about where their life can take them if they make great decisions and they work with us. As a head teacher you are the person who is looking at the teaching and learning, the opportunities that children have, and you are the strategic vision

READ MORE

Open Evening Oct 4 Tours and Coffee the

Why education begins at home

By John and Kyle Hattie

What

READ MORE

Hand grasp challenges in young children

By Usha Patel

Does

READ MORE

North Bridge House

Road safety for kids of all ages

Toddlers

The number one rule is hand holding. If your child is likely to pull away use safety reins. Make sure your child walks on the INSIDE of the pavement away from traffic. Introduce Stop, Look, Listen and Think.

Point out hidden entrances or driveways that cross the pavement.

Ages 7-11

Children should not go out alone until they know and can use the Green Cross Code .

Let your child make decisions with you, so they learn through practical action. Help your child plan safe walking routes. Encourage your child to talk about what they see on the roads and whether it’s safe.

Stop, Look, Listen, Think

Ages 5-7

Never let your child go near a road alone and always hold hands.

Show children how pedestrians walk safely on the pavement and vehicles use the road.

Point out safer crossing places and show how to use them.

Reinforce Stop, Look, Listen and Think.

The Green Cross Code

Find a safe place to cross. STOP just before you get to the kerb. LOOK in all directions for approaching traffic. LISTEN for traffic approaching from all directions. THINK about whether it is safe to cross the road.

Walk straight across the road. Keep LOOKING and LISTENING for traffic while crossing.

First Journeys

In this film for children ages 3 to 6, pupils dress up and learn how to cross the road safely using the Stop, Look, Listen, Think sequence.

In this film for ages 7 to 12, children discuss first solo journeys they’re looking forward to and older children share what their first journeys were like.

Children are at core for Hillgate Tutors

As our children go back to school, it can be daunting for parents to navigate the next level of education. “Highgate Tutors are here to support you and your child on their learning journey,” said founder Laurie Gabay.

Hillgate Tutors’ students have been achieving the highest grades at some of Britain’s most prestigious schools such as Winchester, Westminster, Latymer and UCS, added Laurie. The secret to their success?

“A deep understanding of each student’s individual needs,” said Laurie. “We put pupils at the core of our company. We look for tutors who are highly qualified and passionate educators.” Many have been with Hillgate Tutors for 15 years or longer. Offering support at all levels, from age 5 to university, Hillgate Tutors works with parents to develop a learning plan tailored to each child to help them achieve their best. Tutoring can take place at your home or via online learning. “Parents are in good, professional hands with us,” said Laurie. “We pride ourselves on providing the best for their children.” www.hillgatetutors.co.uk. 07748 956581

More music in schools

Tens of thousands of children will be given the chance to learn an instrument as part of a national plan which sets out the Government’s ambition to give “every child the opportunity to develop a love of music.” £25million will be made availa ble for schools to buy musical instruments and equipment. Updated guidance will ask schools to offer at least one hour of music curriculum a week with every school expect ed to have a designated music lead or head of department.

Brilliant first chapter books for early readers

When your child is ready to move on from picture books, here are some wonderful first chapter books recommended by Parrot Street Book Club.

The Tindims of Rubbish Island

By Sally Gardner, illustrated by Lydia Correy

Noodle the Doodle

By Jonathan Meres, illustrated by Katy Halford

Panda at the Door

Written and illustrated by Sarah Horne

Alien in the Jam Factory

By Chrissie Sains. illustrated by Jenny Taylor

Velda the Awesomest Viking and the Voyage of Deadly Doom

By David MacPhail, illustrated by Richard Morgan

There’s a Dog in My Brain

By Caroline Green, illustrated by Rikin Parekh

Dragon Storm

By Alastair Chisholm, illustrated by Eric Deschamps and Ben Mantle

The Marvellous Granny Jinks and Me

By Serena Patel, illustrated by Selom Sunu

Morgan the Book Cat

By Polly Faber, illustrated by Clara Vulliamy

How to make homework create good habits

How do you feel about homework? Is it a source of stress? Is it essential? Vassos Vassiliou, founder of The AfterSchool Learning Centre, offers tips for creating a set-up to encourage a habit of producing quality work.

“Homework is good for your child as it develops positive habits and skills, such as discipline, which will stay with them for life,” said Vassos. Aside from removing distractions and having all materials to hand, in a comfortable area, you can: Ask your child to explain their homework task

If they understand it, they can do it with minimal assistance. If not, offer guidance — but don’t do the work for them. “We ask parents to tell us

DEPTH JOY STRUCTURE

what their child has been struggling with so that we can help in class,” said Vassos.

Offer praise Everyone loves it! Children progress with encouragement. Watch frustration levels Sometimes a child just has to take a break. Encourage your child to READ MORE

www.afterschoollearning.com The After-School Learning Centre helps children age 4-18 achieve the best grades possible in English, Maths, Science, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning and Mandarin through personalised and tailored one-to-one tutoring. Located in North London and Southgate.

Your child’s primary years are fundamental in shaping not just what they become, but who they become.

King Alfred School has over 120 years of experience of designing joyful learning experiences which give each child the space they need to discover and develop their passions, to embrace challenge and reflect on their achievements.

Our creative curriculum inspires children because they do it through

experience, through play, through genuine interest; we nurture an eagerness to know more and encourage greater depth of understanding. We have high expectations for our children and give them the freedom to explore and grow - all within a structure which lets them develop at the pace which is right for them. The results speak for themselves; happy, confident children who love to learn.

Find out more about the school, or book to attend an open event at www.kingalfred.org.uk

School open days

Broomfield School – N14. Boys and girls 11-18.

Open evening Tues Oct 4. Plus coffee mornings: tour the school and meet the headteacher. www.broomfield.enfield.sch.uk/ coffeemorning www.broomfield.enfield.sch.uk 020 8368 4710

Hendon Preparatory School and Pre-School – Girls and boys 3–11.

Open Morning: Sept 28, 9–11.30am. 20 Tenterden Grove, Hendon, NW4 1TD. Book on 020 8203 7727. admissions@hendonprep.co.uk www.hendonprep.co.uk

Bilingual Nurseries – Girls and boys. Full daycare up to 5. Intakes in September, January, May. Mars Montessori – 4 Collins Yard, N1 2XU. Les Trois Oursons – 170 Gloucester Terrace, Lower Ground Floor, W2 6HS. To arrange morning visit, call 020 7099 0452. Email through https://bilingualnurseries.com/ en/contact-us

Hyland House School – Christian school for boys and girls, 2-11. Call to enquire. Holcombe Road, Tottenham, N17 9AB. 020 8520 4186. www.hylandhouseschool.org ✉info@hylandhouseschool.org

Maria Montessori Institute –Boys and girls 2-12. Abbey Road Children’s House (2–6): Tues Oct 4, 5.30–7pm.

Bayswater Children’s House (2–6 ): Weds Oct 5, 5.30–7pm.

Notting Hill Children’s House (2–6 ): Weds Oct 5, 5.30–7pm.

Hampstead Children’s House (2-6 ): Thurs Oct 6, 5.30–7pm. Hornsey Rise Children’s House (2-6 ): Thurs Oct 6, 5.30–7pm. Bayswater Elementary (6–12 ): Weds Oct 19, 5.30–7pm. Hampstead Elementary (6-12 ): Weds Oct 19, 5.30-7pm.

www.mariamontessori.org/ schools

 020 7435 3646.

North Bridge House Schools –Boys and girls 2-18.

Nursery Hampstead (2-4): Oct 1, 10am.

Pre-Prep Hampstead (4-7): Oct 1, 10am.

Nursery and Pre-Prep West Hampstead (2-7): Sat Sept 17, 10am.

Prep School Regent’s Park (413): Sat Sept 24, 10am.

Senior Hampstead (11-16): Sat Sept 17, 10am.

Senior & 6th Form Canonbury (11-18): Sat Sept 24, 10am. Private tours on request. Book at www.northbridgehouse. com/open

The King Alfred School – Boys and girls 4-18

Upper School (11–16): Thurs Sept 15, 9.30–11am.

Lower School (4–11): Thurs Oct 13, 9.30–11am.

Sixth Form: Mon Oct 3, 5–7pm. Book at www.kingalfred.org.uk/ admissions/open-days

Kick off the new school year with energy has delivered some real excitement the is the the letting stress sap your energy, here are four tips from extra tuition provider Ant Learning:Resume the routine of your child reading out loud to you and ask questions based on what was readPractice handwriting to enable your child to strengthen their motor skills Check in with your child within the first month on new topics they find challenging and put measures in place to tackle difficulties“If you notice a learning loss from the summer slump, enrolling your child for extra tuition at Ant Learning can help,” said Ant Learning founder Lara Okpor. “We help children keep at pace or ahead of schoolwork.”

020 8050 5798

Music Kindergartens ... for and

· Enjoyable, active, fun musical learning based on traditional and classical music

· Fosters social interaction, language development and self esteem in small age related year groups

· High quality music education broad, structured, proven methodology

· Foundation for our hugely successful instrumental programme

· Professional musicians, specialists in Colourstrings/ Kodaly/child development

· Long term success on instruments 5 6yrs to 19yrs Call Yvonne 020 8444 9435 wonderfully imaginative musical journey...

Helping children to long term musical success

Hendon

New term teething troubles

By Liat Joshi-Hughes

The autumn term has begun and your child has returned to school. What kind of ‘teething troubles’ might you face over the next few months while your child copes with the changes that September brought with it? And how should you deal with them?

My child is having trouble making friends

Perhaps they’re in a different class or their closest friend has left the school and they’re struggling to adjust and find a new bestie or gang. Regardless, there are a couple of things you can do to boost your child’s friendships. Firstly, of course, talk to your child’s teacher and ask if there’s anyone they think your son or daughter might particularly gel with. Next up, invite them over for a playdate or arrange to meet them and their parent in the park. If confidence is an issue, role play approaching potential friends with your little one…take it in turns.

My child can’t manage this year’s curriculum

Primary school learning is much more of a double act these days, a partnership between parents and teachers. Again, go and have a chat with the teacher to try and understand your child’s level and find out what you can do to support your little one’s reading, writing or maths at home. This needn’t be

anything formal, just reading a little more together or encouraging them to do some basic adding up when you’re at the shops or baking. For writing practice, could they write a post card to their grandparents or other relatives?

READ MORE

Tell about your

Lot that

Whatever age your children, love what’s happening in world and about your childcare. In the autumn we’ll share parent stories about how things have changed, the different challenges and how we’re all making things work.

What is Montessori?

Michel Capobianco, Head of School for Maria Montessori School for 2 to 12s on sites in North and West London, explains.

Montessori builds on children’s natural desire to learn and nurtures academic skills and character de velopment. Montessori children become confident, creative, respon sible, hugely empathetic and highly independent. This seems very relevant to today’s world.

Our parents tell us how Montessori supports their children. They have told us: “this education fosters a lifelong love of learning”; “the approach has inspired my daughter’s creativity and built her confidence”; “authentic Montessori is the dream blend of educational rigour and innovation”; “my son hugely looks forward to school every day”.

It is possible to call a school Mon tessori even if it doesn’t have any Montessori trained teachers!

So how can you recognise if a Montessori setting is the “real deal”? Key features of authentic Montessori education include:

Environment

An aesthetic and enticing environment, specifically designed for children at each stage of their development – equipment is childsized and materials are easy-toreach. The classroom is meticulously

cared for, which encourages the children to take care of it too.

Mixed age groups

Classes have bigger age ranges — younger children learn by watching older children, older ones benefit from the experience of helping younger children. Child-led learning

Children choose their activities and return materials to the shelf after they have used them. There is an atmosphere of calm and children concentrate for surprising periods of time, working alone or with others. A specially trained adult

A Montessori teacher is highly skilled at observing the capacities of each child and offers new challenges when they are ready. The teacher won’t interfere unless a difficulty arises and gives just enough help to get the child back on track.

Find out more about the Maria Montessori School for 2-12-yearolds in Hampstead, Hornsey Rise, Abbey Road, Notting Hill and Bay swater; attend an open day or visit us at www.mariamontessori.org/ schools or call 020 7435 3646.

Teaching the love of learning

By Karen Thomas, Head of King Alfred Lower School

Now feels like the time to consider what and how we teach in schools. We have the responsibility to ensure each child’s school experience goes deeper than the acquisition of facts and figures — to foster joy and understanding of the learning process and to equip them with strategies to navigate the future.

With high-stakes end-of-year tests replaced by informative, childfriendly, rigorous alternatives, there is a different sense of purpose to primary at King Alfred School. Time is made to analyse the attributes of successful learners. Commitment, curiosity, courage,

and compassion are celebrated and nurtured. Self-management, teamwork, critical thinking and research skills are discussed. We have elevated expectations of what can be achieved. Best of all we are having fun. The school is buzzing with questions, reflections, ideas and laughter… these feel like some of the most important things school can offer our children.

Register for one of our Open Events to find out more: www.kingalfred. org.uk/admissions/open-days

Once upon a giggle: King Alfred pupils joyfully share a book

Autumn Treasure Hunt

Get outdoors and go on a treasure hunt with your kids, finding and matching autumn treasures.

Autumn treasure hunt

Ideal for appreciating the autumn season and getting outdoors. No checking online until you get home!

On the next page you’ll find pictures of eight different autumn treasures to find in the park or woodlands. Remember, the Woodland Trust has a great guide to woodlands near you. Once you’ve found them, write in the name of what you’ve found. Get your grown up to help you.

Then take a look at the pictures in a row at the bottom. Each picture has some kind of connection to your treasures. It might be where the treasure comes from or maybe where you find it.

When you’ve worked out the connection, draw a line from each of your autumn treasures to the picture at the bottom that is connected to it.

And hey presto, you’re done! And hopefully you’ve found an autumn treasure you can keep or learned something you didn’t know. Have fun!

“At

How to build a business around your children

If you’re looking for the flexibility to work around your kids or make extra money to help tackle the rising cost of living, starting your own business could be the option.

“When my son was little, I designed a portable toilet for children and al ways dreamed of seeing it for sale on the high street,” says Zoë Chapman, founder of KiddiWhizz.

“2020 was looking like a write-off for developing the business, but within days of attending the Rebel course, I’d utilised the hard work I’d previous ly done and took a leap of faith. Within a month, I was holding my manu factured product and had formed a company with a clear vision.”

Simon Paine, the co-founder of Rebel Business School, shares his tips for starting a business alongside parenting:

Figure out your idea

Most people get stuck thinking they need to be the next Sara Blakely or Elon Musk to start a business. It’s not true. Look at your past skills, your hobbies or things you find frustrating to find a simple product or service that you can sell. Be kind to yourself, take small, consistent steps and build the business at the pace that fits with your family.

Borrow, barter and get stuff for free

As a parent, you don’t have money to waste. Search sites like Facebook Marketplace or Freecycle for physi-

cal things, negotiate with independent venues to bring people in during their down time or swap your skills with someone else to get what you need.

Sell your value before you create it Get paid in advance for your product or service so you can use your customer’s cash to start developing or building your product. You can make this work with ANY kind of business, you just have to think differently about how you make it happen and your customers have to TRUST that you’ll deliver on your promises.

Learn more

If you want help to turn your ideas into a business and get your new venture off the ground, join the next 6-week online Rebel Business School course.

It starts on October 17 and is free to attend. Find out more at therebelschool.com/enfield

Zoë Chapman turned her idea into a business with Rebel Business School

New venues give young-stars the chance to shine with Achieve Arts

Achieve Arts is fast becoming one of the top Speech and Drama Schools for children and young adults in North London, with their 100% success rate in LAMDA Examinations and a busy agency for their young performers. We caught up with co-founders Karen Kiely and Pamela Collins...

I hear you’re going from strength to strength—with new classes in Mill Hill and Harringay, as well as your other North London venues

Karen: Yes, we are very excit ed to be expanding our sessions to Mill Hill! Our sessions are on a Wednesday at Trinity Church, for 4 to 16-year-olds. Many of our weekly classes in Crouch End, Muswell Hill, Hampstead Garden Suburb, Tufnell Park and Pinner have waiting lists, so we are definitely excited to be

Find Achieve Arts at: Crouch End Cape Studios, N8 9EG Muswell Hill

The Common House, N10 3FB

St James C of E School, N10 3JA Harringay Ladder

North Harringay Primary School, N8 0NU Tufnell Park

St George and All Saints Church, N7 0ND

Hampstead Garden Suburb

Hampstead Garden Suburb Free Church, N11 7AA Mill Hill

Trinity Church, NW7 3TB Pinner

St Lawrence’s Church, HA5 2SJ

Developing skills and confidence

starting in Mill Hill and on Saturdays on The Harringay Ladder.

What happens at Achieve Arts Speech and Drama School?

Pamela: In every class, our students are up on their feet, developing confidence, solo speaking skills, improv isation techniques, characterisation and performance skills. At Achieve Arts, we teach the LAMDA syllabus in a really fun way. We work towards LAMDA accredited examinations which includes working on

READ MORE to find out about different age groups, how students go on to work in the industry and about online classes.

Choose a venue and book a free trial at: www.achievearts.co.uk ✉ info@achievearts.co.uk  020 8087 2461

New term - new clubs and classes

Anna Fiorentini

Children learn from leading industry professionals at inclusive Saturday workshops in drama, singing, dance and film in Camden, for 4-6s and 7-18s. Sign up for a taster day. Other branches in Hackney, Docklands, Greenwich. And classes at other venues for adults (acting, singing, dance, musical theatre). Plus agency. www.afperformingarts.com/ theatre-and-film-school/ schools/camden

Achieve Arts

Unlock creativity, develop performance skills, confidence, solo speaking skills, improvisation and characterisation at our classes for 4-16s, in Crouch End, Muswell Hill, Harringay Ladder, Tufnell Park, Hamp stead Garden Suburb, Mill Hill, Pinner. Online classes too. And we run our own agency. 100% Lamda success rate. Book a free trial. www. achievearts. co.uk

We nurture your child, helping them develop excellent communication skills, growing self-esteem and confidence—as well as giving them skills in dancing, singing and acting, technique and style. Over 30 years, we have become known for high-quality training. We welcome children of all abilities from the age of 4 to 16 and offer two-week trials. 07956 436028 www.stagecoach.co.uk/ highgate Stagecoach?

Stage Academy Stagecoach

Building teamwork, self-confidence, responsibility and, ambition, we unlock the potential inside every young person, giving them the chance to be the stars of tomorrow — on stage or off. Book a free trial to discover the Stage Academy difference — and to secure your place for September. For 4-18s. Classes in Highgate, Gospel Oak, Crouch End, North Finchley, Islington. 100% LAMDA pass rate. Act, sing, dance and succeed! stageacademy.co.uk

New term - new clubs and classes

St Kiernan’s Vincent & Frida

Inclusive, fun Gaelic Football Club for kids and adults. Teams from under-6 to senior men and ladies of all abilities. Newcomers welcome. Taught by excellent coaches.Summer training at King George Playing Fields, Barnet Lane, EN5. Winter training is at Woodhouse College, North Finchley. Call Chris Byrne on 07984 184003 or Declan Ryan on 07818 023639.

Diddidance

We create a funky preschool dance class suitable for all children. We are here to nurture their love of movement in a relaxed environment and cover 16 dance styles. Classes suitable for toddlers from 18 months upwards. However if they’re younger and steady on their feet, come and join us! Classes in Enfield, Cheshunt and Potters Bar. Constantina 07983972095 constantina.menezes@ diddidance.com www.diddidance.com

We bring art history to life in a fun an engaging manner for 7-13s, fostering a lifelong curiosity about art and an appreciation of human creativity. Learn to carefully study artworks, analyse visual information, make connections and question historical beliefs. Increase wellbeing and feed into academic goals. Classes can be booked as a trial subject to availabliity. Discover more www.vincentandfrida.com

Mei Quan

Take time to build your own wellbeing and strength, with experienced instructors teaching all elements of Tai Chi and Qi Gong, in W Hampstead, Highbury & Islington, Highgate, Enfield, Stoke Newington, E Finchley, Crouch End & Hornsey, Old St, Camden, Muswell Hill, Hackney, Walthamstow and more. Online classes too. https:// taichinews. com

New term - new clubs and classes

Perform

Confidence- building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s, boosting confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Visit www. perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class.

Venues: N1, N2, N4, N5, NEW classes in N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, NEW classes in N13, N14, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11

 020 7255 9120

✉ enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

Magic of India

Colourstrings Kindergartens

Sign up to help your child enjoy long-term musical success! Kodálybased classes from 6 months to 6 years...start early to avoid a long wait for our instrumental programme for 5-19yrs. Kindergarten classes in Muswell Hill, Highgate, Islington, Stoke Newington and Hendon.

For a trial of 3 discounted lessons, 020 8444 9435

✉ admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk

Speak Hindi from the first lesson in fun classes with innovative and engaging activities —and connect with Indian culture. No previous knowledge needed to learn to speak with confidence. Small group zoom classes: 5-7s, 8-14s, 16-adult. New fun parent & toddler singalong. Private lessons too. Missed class support & recording. Free trial class. Quick learning Holiday clubs too. www.magicofindia.org you magazine and..."

New term - new clubs and classes

Hillgate Tutors

We support you and your child on their learning journey by understanding your child’s individual needs and matching them with a tutor to help them achieve their best. We have supported students at Winchester, Westminster, Latymer and UCS. All levels, age 5 to university. Tutoring at your home or online. 07748 956581 www.hillgatetutors.co.uk

The After-School Learning Centre

We are dedicated to helping children aged 4-18 achieve the best grades possible in English, Maths, Science, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning and Mandarin through personalised and tailored one-to-one tutoring from fully qualified, experienced teachers. Open Mon-Sat. We help high achieving and struggling learners. Located in North London and Southgate. Free consultation assessment. www.afterschoollearning.com

Ant Learning

We develop self-motivated and independent learners, enabling children to fill in learning gaps, keep up and get ahead. Tailored private tuition for 3½-11 in reading, maths & English, exam prep 4+, 5+, 7+ & 11+. GL, CEM verbal and non-verbal reasoning, with experienced professional and caring tutoring in small classes. Southgate centre or online. Book a trial and free assessment 020 8050 5798. antlearning.co.uk

Give the autumn term a confidence boost with Perform

A common struggle shared by many children as they start school or return after the summer break is a lack of confidence, and this can stop them reaching their full potential. Whether you’re looking for a confi dence boost for your child or just a weekly dose of drama, dance and singing fun, Perform is back for the autumn term with two exciting productions for 4-7s and 7-12s. “Perform is not a stage school,” stresses Perform Principal Lucy Quick. “The primary aim of our classes is to develop what we call the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentra tion, Coordination and Communication.”

This term, Perform 4-7s will venture into The Magician’s Chamber for confidence-building fun with Merlin the Wizard while 7-12s work on a funky festive performance of Ebenezer, based on Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol.

Term runs from September to De cember and children are welcome to try a free class at any point. No obligation FREE trial at venues in: N1, N2, N4, N5, NEW classes in N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, NEW classes in N13, N14, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11.

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class.

020 7255 9120 ✉enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

Far-flung half-term fun

Send your child on an Arabian adventure with Perform this October halfterm, filled with colour, magic and mystery based on the much-loved story of Aladdin. Four to 10-year-olds can enjoy three fun-packed full days of drama, dance and singing with an energetic team of actors, dancers and musicians. The course ends with a colourful performance for friends and family with original music and fabulous costumes.

Dates: 24 to 26 October, 10am to 3pm each day

Venues: N5, N6, N1, NW3, NW8, NW10

Visit: www.perform.org.uk/aladdin 020 7255 9120 ✉enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

A great escape hones vital reasoning skills

Thinking skills are increasingly recognised as the cornerstone of a great education - and future employers will be putting them at the top of their wishlists.

It can be a challenge to find a trip that engages children intellectu ally — while they think they’re just having fun. Immersive experiences like escape games make those skills have real consequences.

“At clueQuest, we believe that our escape rooms help develop skills and imagination, and most of all, are great fun!” said Freya Carroll, from clueQuest.

Builds Teamwork

Teamwork happens naturally in an escape room as children start to collaborate to achieve their goal in the game. Sharing that common goal can push children to try harder. The excitement that comes with solving a puzzle as a group creates a long-lasting memory.

Out-of-the-Box Thinking Learning your times tables is one thing, but escape rooms offer the opportunity to think in a different way. “When all you have is a clue and a puzzle, you figure out how to think outside the box, next to the box and perhaps even underneath the box!” said Freya.

Immersive “You can find yourself in any number of places, from a safe house to the lair of an evil professor. Even the quietest child gets swept away by the stories they discover,” Freya added.

Safe clueQuest players are looked after by an experienced Games Host to ensure an exciting, educational and enjoyable experience. “Each Games Host will be able to tailor the game, resulting in a guided and memora ble event,” said Freya.

clueQuest experiences are suitable for children aged 9+, ideal for par ties and school outings as well as being great for family groups - or just adults. clueQuest offers “playat-home” escape games too.

OFFER Families North London has teamed up with clueQuest to offer readers £10 off per booking on inperson games. Simply book online using code FAMILY at https://cluequest.co.uk

Find clueQuest at 169171 Caledonian Road, N1 0SL ✉escape@cluequest.co.uk 07798 772 382

OFFER

£10 off

Having fun: building tomorrow’s skills

Halloween treats

Bake these delicious Halloween recipes from Neha Gandesha @squashedpickle . Watch her videos or click for recipe and ingredients.

Hot chocolate sticks

Tuna fish pie (with pumpkin tops)

These delicious hot chocolate sticks are perfect when you want a warming treat this Halloween. Kids can get creative topping them with their favourite chocolates, sprinkles or even cookies and then enjoy them by dunking in a hot cup of milk. RECIPE

If you’re looking for something that’s Halloween-themed and easy to prepare with just one pot, this healthy pie is a perfect option. It’s a great way to get fish and hidden veg into your child’s diet too!

RECIPE

Making rice crispy treats is one of my favourite things to do with my son because he can do most of the job himself! It’s a fab no-bake recipe, you can use any cereal and the results are deliciously crispy and perfect for decoration.

RECIPE

My son is obsessed with anything creepy and scary and these fun and super-easy snacks are some of his favourites. Your kids will love these delicious Creepy Crumpet Pizzas, Ghostly Peppers and Witches Brooms made from Cheese Strings!

RECIPE

Spooky crispy treats

Spooky snacks

Enjoying autumn outside

DIY Halloween costumes

WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON!

To have your event listed on these pages email the details to editor@ familiesnorthlondon.co.uk

Disclaimer: We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.

Family Theatre

Ongoing

The Play That Goes Wrong

The Cornley Polytechnic work their comedy magic on a 1920s murder mystery – but everything that can go wrong does go wrong. Will the audience ever find out Whodunnit? 8+. From £22. Duchess Theatre, Catherine St, WC2B 5LA www.mischiefcomedy.com/ theplaythatgoeswrong-london/ london

Every Friday

Planet Play

Until October 21. Magical, interactive, sensory show with songs, music and movement for 0-3s. 10am & 11.30am. Adults £7.50, children & babies, free, must book. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Every Saturday

Tales from the Shed

Until Oct 26. Vibrant, inclusive, informal and educational show. Suitable for 0-6s. 10am & 11.30am. Adults & children £7. Under 6mths free, must book. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Sept 6-10 & 12-17

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo

All-male ballet company, known

for sassy spoofs of classical ballet, show off their fabulous sense of fun and flawless dance. 8+. Sept 10 audio-described and touch tour 2.30pm. From £18. Sadler’s Wells, Theatre, EC1R 4TN. www.sadlerswells.com

Sept 10

The Wind in The Willows

Riotous family open-air adventure from Calf2Cow theatre. 2.30pm. Adult £15, child £12, family £35, under2s free. Broomfield Park, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events

Battle of Britain Concert

An afternoon of 40s music. Bring a picnic. Concert 1pm-6pm. Adult £18, child £10. RAF Museum. NW9 5LL. www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london

Dinosaurs and All That Rubbish

Environmental tale with dancing dinosaurs, fuelled by rock ‘n’ roll. 3+. 2pm. Adult £8.50, child £7. Pickled Pepper Books, Enfield, EN2 6SN www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk

Sept 11

Dinosaurs and All That Rubbish

See description above. 11am & 2pm. From £12. Artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Milkshake! Monkey’s Musical

Featuring Paddington, Daisy & Ollie. Milo, Noddy, Pip and Posy, Blue’s Clues & You! and of course Milkshake! in a spectacular new show. 10.30am, 1.30pm, 4.30pm. Adult £17, child £16, family £62. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Sept 15 Dracula or The Undead

One for older teens and adults, celebrating 125 years of its publication, by this year’s winner of the Dracula Society Award.

Former winners include Benedict Cumberbatch and Mark Gatiss. 7.30pm. Adults £10, concs £8. Culture Palace Downstairs, unit 27-30, Palace Gardens Shopping Centre, EN2 6DS. www.dugdalecentre.co.uk

Sept 16-Nov 13

Miniature Travelling Circus

With beautiful puppets, magic and acts so tiny you may wonder how you can possibly see them. 3-6s. Various times, prices. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2DN www.littleangeltheatre.com

Sept 17

Professor Slug’s House of Bugs

Join the eccentric expert as he helps bugs out with their problems. 11am & 1pm. £8. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk

Secret Agent Mission Training –Llama-style!

Author event. 2pm. Check website for price info. Pickled Pepper Books, Enfield, EN2 6SN www.pickledpepperbooks.co.u

Sept 17 & 24

The Frog Prince

Join Little Supernovas and a princess who hates green slimy things. 0-3s. 10am & 11am. £20.50 adult&child. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk

Sept 18 Shakespeare’s Royal Company

An adventure through William Shakespeare’s most famous plays – all in 1 hour. Fast-paced slapstick two-hander. 5+. 11am & 2pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Sept 24

Big Goldilocks and the Three Bear Plus…

Interactive comic retelling through a huge book with pop-ups and props coming out of it. 11.30am. Free must book. Collage Kids at MAAD, 4 Coburg Road, N22 6UJ www.musicglue.com/karamel

Hulla Balloony Moon Time

Based on the book Pat-a-Cake Baby, Long Nose Puppets create a marvellous moonlit show full of riotous rhyme, music and

song. 2-8s. 11am & 1pm. £8. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk

Sept 24 & Oct 22

Dame Dolly Does Little Red Riding Hood

Dame Dolly is ready for her produc tion but the cast have not turned up. Will the boys and girls – and grownups – help her out? 3-10s. 11am, 2pm. Adult £8.50, child £7. Pickled Pepper Books, Enfield, EN2 6SN www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk

Sept 24-Nov 20

The King of Nothing

Anarchic puppet musical retelling of The Emperor’s New Clothes. 5-11s. £8. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2EH www.littleangeltheatre.com

Sept 25

Groove Baby: Grooving with Pirates

Sail the seas in a jazz and funkfuelled show for 3-7s and their grown-up crew. 11am and 2pm. From £12. Artsdepot, N12 0GA. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Little Monster

Exciting puppetry adventure to find a mysterious monster that made everyone else run away. 3-5s. 12pm & 3pm. £9.95. Jacksons Lane, N6 www.jacksonslane.org.uk

Sept 28-Oct 3

Zippo’s Circus

Bon Voyage takes visitors on an adventure around the globe with an international cast. £10.50. Under2s on laps go free. Various times. Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE www.fobp.events

Sept 29, Nov 17

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy For grown-ups, babies under 15months welcome. 12pm. £15 adult & child. Artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Oct 1

Sunflowers and Sheds

Charming tale of a lonely old man and an Eastern European girl with cheeky chickens, helps us discover that friendship can grow in the most unlikely conditions. 4+. 11am & 1pm. £8. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk

Oct 2

Sunflowers and Sheds 12pm & 3pm. From £12. artsdepot,

N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Morgan & West: Unbelievable Science

Magicians and time-travellers, bring explosive thrills and chemical spills, with wit and charm. 2.30pm. 6+. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Oct 8

The Nosy Little Troll

Warmhearted funny Scandinavian tale with wonderfully-crafted puppets. 3-8s. 11am & 1pm. £8. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk

Oct 8 & 9

Little Red Riding Hood

A wardrobe can take you to magical places, and this one has secret compartments. Animals are going missing from the wild wood and a little girl has just received a red cloak from Granny. 3-8s. 12am & 3pm. From £10.95. Jacksons Lane, N6 www.jacksonslane.org.uk

Oct 9 Halloween Spooktacular

Family-friendly mini festival from Big Beat Playground. 3 DJs, arts and crafts space, tropical hangout and more. Come in fancy dress. Child £8.25, adults £10.25. Under 1s free. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk

The Marvelous Myth Hunter: In The Beginning Dust off your maps, strap on your jetpack and journey around the world to discover how the world

began. Wear your best adventure outfit and join the Myth Hunter Academy. 5-11s. 11am. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Oct 13 toooB

Enchanting wordless sensory adventure with toooB, curious and friendly who loves to play. 6m-24m. 11am & 1pm, £15adult-and-child. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Barely Methodical Troupe: Bromance Award-winning smash-hit circus about camaraderie and affection. 8+. 8pm. From £15. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Oct 15

The Bubble Show

Join Mr Bubbles with his unique blend of magic, storytelling and bubble art, with square bubbles, smoke bubbles and even fire bubbles. 3-12s. 2pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom

Forget about bad hair days, poor Rapunzel’s hair is used as a ladder. Theatre of Widdershins takes this tale back to its roots. 4+. 11am & 1pm. £8. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk

Dinosaurs and All That Rubbish

See description from Sept 10. 11am & 2pm. £20.50 adult&child. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk

Oct 16

The Wind in the Willows

Beautiful adaptation with puppetry, innovative theatre and a charming original score. 4+, 11am & 2pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Baby Gospel

Sing and clap along to Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley, Adele, Pharrell, Gospel songs and nursery rhymes with London’s CK Gospel Choir. For newborns and up. 10am & 11.30am, £9.95. Under-18ms free. Jacksons Lane, N6 www.jacksonslane.org.uk

Oct 21

Neon Dance: Prehension Blooms For 10+. Interactive contemporary

show with world-class performers, immersive sound design and robotic technology, set in an alien world where robot creatures lurk underfoot. Post-show Q&A. 8pm. From £15. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Oct 21-16

An Improbable Musical 14+. A new musical every time – an unapologetic experiment in starting with nothing and seeing what happens, by maestros of improvised theatre Improbable. Various times. Various prices. Hackney Empire, E8 1EL www.hackneyempire.co.uk

Oct 22

The Story Game

Andrew Barnett Jones has made up stories for loads of TV shows, but he has no idea what story he is going to tell today. Once you’ve learned his Story Game, you’ll be using it yourself. 6+. 11am & 1pm. £8. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk

If I Had a Vampire Bat Author event with drawing. 2-7s. 2.30pm. See website for price info. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk

Oct 22 & 29

The Witch’s Rainbow Soup

Funny sensory adventure with Lit tle Supernovas. 0-3s. 10am & 11am. 11am & 2pm. £20.50 adult&child. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk

Oct 22-27

Room On The Broom

Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories funfilled adaptation of the best-selling book. Magical Olivier-nominated show for 3+. Various times.

Oct 26, 11am relaxed, 2pm BSL performances. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Oct 23 Dance Umbrella: Do-re-mi-ka-do Explore the connection between movement and sound, as sound becomes colour and dance turns into music, taking families into a world of play and creativity. 2+, 12.15pm & 2.30pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

‘COMIC GOLD ’ Variety

Oct 24-30

Magical Merlin

Take a trip to a world of magic with Perform Productions. In Ancient Britain, Magical Merlin is the most miraculous wizard ever. When King Arthur is born and jealous older sister Morgan Le Fay starts turning people into animals, it’s down to Merlin to save the day. Teaming up with brave Sir Lancelot and beautiful Princess Guinevere, the adventurers ride a fire-breathing dragon to The Lady Of The Lake to discover where true power lies. Can they get back to Tintagel Castle before Morgan turns Arthur into a hamster? Musical spectacular. 4-10s. Various times. Oct 30 BSL. From £17.50. Fortune Theatre, WC2B 5HH. www.atgtickets.com/shows/ magical-merlin/fortune-theatre

Not actual size ‘TONS OF FUN FOR ALL AGES ’ Post

THE LONGEST RUNNING COMEDY IN THE WEST END LONDON

WHAT’S

Oct 25-29

Grandad Anansi

Uplifting tale of love, courage and letting go. 4-9s. 11am & 1pm. £10. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL

www.lyric.co.uk

Oct 25-Nov 5

South African Road Trip

Exuberant musical experience, with uplifting songs, sensitive songs, close harmony and invigorating dance and music. Various times. From £18. Peacock Theatre, WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com

Oct 26

Fireman Sam Saves the Circus

Norman Price decides to become the star of a visiting circus, but with a tiger on the loose and faulty lights, can Fireman Sam save the day? 10.30am, 1.30pm, 4pm. Adult £17, child £16, family £62. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Oct 27

Shivers and Shadows Expect delightful frights and

hilarious horrors, with puppetry and comedy seasoned with tall tales with Craig who has just inherited a mansion from his Uncle Vladimir. Loud noises, creepy characters, a spooky atmosphere and a few jumps. For brave 6+. 11.30am & 2.30pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA

www.artsdepot.co.uk

Anansi Brings Back the Day Funny, irreverent West African tale told with puppetry, spoken word and traditional African music. 5-11s. 11.30am & 2.30pm. Adult £13.50, child £11.50. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2EH www.littleangeltheatre.com

Oct 27-29

Ten Sorry Tales

Modern fables, from the child who sleeps for 15 years to a boy who brings butterflies back to life – by turns moving, gruesome and funny. Oct 28 1pm relaxed. From £9. Lilian Bayliss Studio, in Sadler’s Wells, Theatre, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com

Oct 27-30

Jack Frost and the Search for Winter

Jack loses his magical icy touch and searches the world for winter, meeting characters who share his seasonal winter magic. Can he get his magic back? 3+. 11am & 2.30pm. £12.95. Jacksons Lane, N6 www.jacksonslane.org.uk

Oct 28

Ministry of Science Live! Explosive science show, looking at scientists, engineers and inventors

Curiouser and curiouser: ALiCE, Sadler's Wells, Oct 28 & 29

who have shaped the modern world, while proving every one of you can change our world for the better. 12noon. From £15. Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar, EN6 2HZ https://wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

Oct 28-29

ALiCE

Award-winning Jasmin Vardimon’s re-imagining of the classic Alice in Wonderland. As Alice grows, the world around her is different, curious and, at times, bonkers. From £15. Sadler’s Wells, Theatre, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com

Oct 28-29

Little Red Riding Hood

See description from Oct 8. 11am & 2pm. 3+. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Oct 30

Comedy Club 4 Kids

The best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit –but without the rude bits. 12pm & 2.30pm. 6+. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Nov 5

A Square World

Endearing and funny look at the unfairness of being left out in a world designed for everyone but yourself. 3-6s. 11am & 1pm. £8. Lyric Hammersmith, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk

Nov 6

Hulla Balloony Moon Time

See description from Sept 24. 2-8s.

11am & 2pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Nov 12

There’s a Rang-Tan in My Bedroom

Imagine finding a turtle in your bathtub and a jaguar in your kitchen. How did they get there? 5-11s. 11am & 1pm. £8. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk

Dame Dolly Does Little Red Riding Hood

See description from Sept 24. 10am, 11.30am, 3pm. £20.50 adult&child. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk

Angel sadlerswells.com

Jina and the STEM Sisters

Join lost budding scientist Jina on her adventure home, empowered by some of history’s super-STEM women, Ada Lovelace, Hedy Lamarr and Marie Curie among others in this highly imaginative multi-media musical puppet show. 7+. 1pm & 3pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Nov 19 & 26

Father Christmas and the Broken Sleigh

Oh no! Can you help Father Christmas out? Fun toddler-friendly show. 0-3s. 10am & 11am. £20.50 adult&child. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk

Events

SEN sessions

Some venues run sessions for children with special needs. See our page at www.bit.ly/FNLsen

Ongoing

Mac’s Indoor and Outdoor Trails

Family discovery trails at Kenwood House, Hampstead Lane, NW3. Family Events have been on hold, but check out www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kenwood/ families

Forty Hall, Enfield, EN2

Features interactive children’s exhibition about the lives of children who may have lived and worked there. Free. Or help Rip the dog find his bones and win a small prize –£2.50. Open 11am-5pm Thurs to Sun. www.fortyhallestate.co.uk

RAF Museum

Family trails, interactive exhibits in RAF: First To The Future – Free entry. And paid-for exhibits, 4D theatre, flight simulator, Spitfire Experience. Open every day. 10am -5pm. Free. Must book. Parking charge. See Families Theatre Sept 10 for Battle of Britain Concert. RAF Museum. NW9 5LL. www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london

Grant Museum of Zoology

Get to know a dodo from a quagga. Tues-Fri 1pm-5pm. Sat 11am-5pm. Free, no booking required. UCL, University St WC1E 6DE. ucl.ac.uk/culture/grant-museumzoology

Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology

Amazing artefacts tell the stories of ordinary people from Ancient Egypt and Sudan. Tues-Fri 1pm-5pm. Sat 11am-5pm. Free, no book. UCL, Malet Place WC1 6BT. ucl.ac.uk/culture/petrie-museum

Whitewebbs Museum of Transport

Open Tuesdays and the last Sunday in the month. Check website for events and closures. Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, Whitewebbs Road, EN2 9HP www.whitewebbsmuseum.co.uk

Being Human & Medicine Man

Permanent exhibitions exploring what it means to be human, and looking at how humans have sought to understand the human body, protect themselves and care for one other. Free. The Wellcome Collection, NW1 2BE.

https://wellcomecollection.org

The 100 Story Hotel

Play exhibit running alongside permanent play spaces designed to fire up children’s imaginations. Must book. Discover Children’s Story Centre, Stratford, E5 4QZ https://discover.org.uk

Ted’s Space Adventures

Planetarium show, under 7s. 11.30am. Check website for Meet The Neighbours, 7+, Starstruck, 7+, 3.30pm. The Sky Tonight, 7+. Weekends and school holidays. Adults £10, child £5. Student & under 25 £6.50. Booking advised. Entry adult £16, child £8. Royal Observatory, SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk

Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz & Walks

Various dates, venues throughout North London. www.bringyourbaby.org

First weekend of the month Family Fun Weekends Workshops, songs, activities and ex periences for all ages. See colourful characters aboard every weekend and school holiday. Cutty Sark, SE10 9HT. www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark

Every Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday Dad’s drop-in group T on The Green, Bruce Castle Park, N17. Sat 12-1.30pm, Tues & Thurs 3.30pm-5pm. Free children’s re freshments. tonthegreen.co.uk

Saturdays Character Encounters

Join an exciting performance and see maritime history brought to life.

Various times. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk

Weekends Sept 3-Oct 16 Story Seekers

Adventurers wanted. Use your wits to discover real artefacts and find moving and surprising stories. Free with entry. Drop-in, 10am-4pm. Free. Advance book timed entry or walk up and wait. Imperial War Museum, SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk

Term-time Sundays

Discover Sundays

Creative activities. All ages. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk

One of Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms. See Oct 1

Sundays Family Art & Craft

Bruce Castle Museum hosts art, crafts and poetry led-workshops. 4-12s, must be accompanied. Little explorer gallery with interactives and dress-up, 3-8. Free. Plus there is a Mystery Manor Trail with sticker booklet for £1, and a Tree Trail. N17 8NU bit.ly/brucecastle

Sundays Sept 11-Nov 6 Sunday Shed

Stand-alone workshops, including elements of dance, drama, music and art. Booking recommended. Little Spark! for 5-7s. 9.30-11am. £8. See website for longer projects for children 7-11, and young people 1218. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www. chickenshed.org.uk

Sundays until Dec 4

Crafternoon

For 3-8s and their families. 2pm4.30pm. JW3, Finchley Road, NW3. Free. Drop in. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET www.jw3.org.uk

Weekdays term-time Little Tots and Ice Cream Pots

Fun sessions, sensory play, music, animals, and more. Lewis of London

Ice Cream Farm, Galley Lane, EN5 www.lewisoflondon.co.uk

Tuesdays in term-time Play Tuesdays

Facilitated play, songs and stories for under-5s. £4. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk

Tuesdays and Fridays in term-time Singing and Story Sessions For under-5s. Various times. London Transport Museum, WC2 ltmuseum.co.uk

Two Wednesdays a month Secret Garden Pop-Up Café Activity sessions and cafe. check website. Salisbury House, Bush Hill Park, N9 9LA. www.thesecretgardenpopup.com

Until Sept 18 Superbloom

Spectacular floral display in the moat, in tribute to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Includes a fun, family-friendly slide into the moat. Various ticket types/prices. Viewing from path above moat is free but must be booked. Tower of London, EC3N 4AB www.hrp.org.uk

Thank You Darling

Exhibition by celebrated contemporary artist Lily van der Stokker, on themes of family, relationships, work and home. Good conversation starter. Free, must book. Camden Art Centre, NW3 6DG. https://camdenartcentre.org

Food Forever Weekends Sessions exploring the future of

food in a changing world. Drop-in 11am-4pm, Free with entry. Adult £15, child £5, various concs. Kew Gardens, Richmond, TW9 3AE www.kew.org

Until Sept 25 Eternally Yours: Care, Repair & Healing Showcase of artists who put repair at the heart of their practice. Free. Book. Times vary. Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA www.somersethouse.org.uk

Until October 9 Don’t Ask The Dragon Exhibition about the collaborative process to create this picture book about Alem who goes on an adventure. Adults £9.50, concs £7.50, under-21s free. Closed Mondays. Foundling Museum, 40 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk

Until October 16

Weird Sensations Feels Good: The World of ASMR

Explore the emerging world of cre ativity triggered through this sound phenomenon. Adults from £9.50. Family from £21. Must book. Design Museum, W8 6AG. https://designmuseum.org

Cornelia Parker

Iconic suspended artworks, an exploded shed, monumental embroidery and more. Adult £16, 1218s £5, under-12s free. Tate Britain, Millbank, SW1P 4RG. tate.org.uk

Until Oct 30 Life Through a Royal Lens

Exhibition exploring the Royal family through photographs. Free with admission. Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens, W8 4PX. www.hrp.org.uk

Until December Harry Kane: I Want To Play Football

Exclusive display in collaboration iconic footballer Harry Kane. And Grime Stories: From the Corner to the Mainstream, exploring the history of Grime in E London and the community at its heart. Free, booking advisable. Museum of London, EC2Y 5HN. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

Until December 31 Walk Through British Art Works from 1545-present. Free. Tate

Britain, Millbank, SW1P 4RG. tate.org.uk

Until Jan Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation and Hope Free. Must book. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

Until Jan 1 Sorting Britain: The Power of Postcodes

The Postal Museum. Discover the ground-breaking technology that changed the post forever. Plus ride the Mail Rail. postalmuseum.org

Until Jan 8 Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature

Discover Potter’s life as a scientist and conservationist in this familyfriendly exhibition. Adult £14, under11s free. V&A, SW7 2RL. www.vam.ac.uk

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Activities, experiences and exhibi tion to mark the Queen’s connection with the armed services. Imperial War Museum, SE1 6HZ.www.iwm. org.uk

Until April 16 Africa Fashion Exploring its global impact through photos, textiles, music and visual arts. £16, under-26 £10, under-12 free. Sept 7 Design Baby, multi-sensory workshop, 0-3s, 11am-12noon. Oct 15 Wash Day, a celebration of Afro hair. Advice, workshops, talks, films. Noon-5pm. Free. No book. V&A, SW7 2RL. www.vam.ac.uk

Until April 28 Slavery & The Bank

How wealth created through transatlantic slavery shaped the development of Britain. Free. Bank of England, museum entrance on Bartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH. www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum

Until July 2023 BBC at 100

Meet an original Cyberman and see how the Beeb has used tech to deliver its mission to inform, educate and entertain. Free. Must book. Science Museum, SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

Sept 7-25

The London Chinese Brush Painters Group

An exhibition of paintings, fans, cards and ceramics using ancient traditional materials and techniques. Free. Weds-Fri & Sun. 10am-4pm.

Burgh House, NW3 1LT

https://burghhouse.museumssites. com

Sept 8-Dec 15

Amazing Tots

Developmental stay and play for under 2s with a disability or developmental delay. Free. Email Karen Rodrigues-Ayers@kids.org.uk. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk

Sept 10 Open House: Bank of England Museum

Special walks, talks and activities in the museum. Free. Bank of England Museum, entrance on Bartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

Celebrating Chuseok

Talks, workshops, performances and more to mark the Korean harvest moon festival. 11am-4pm. Drop in. Free, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org

Sept 10-11

DogFest

Hay-bale racing, dog diving, fun dog show, get training tips, advice from animal experts and enjoy all things dog. Various prices. Knebworth, SG1 2AX. www.knebworthhouse.com

Sept 10-11

Bee and Honey Show

See an observation hive, roll can dles and buy honey. Adult £8, child £5. Capel Manor Gardens, Enfield, EN1 4RQ. www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk

Sept 10, Oct 15, 24, 28, Nov 12, Dec 3

Impossible Images: ancient Egypt

Create an Egypt-themed family photo. Drop in. 10am-4pm. Free, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW www.britishmuseum.org

Sept 11 Wood Green Community Fun Day

Live entertainment and stalls. Free. 12pm-5pm. Duckett’s Common, opp Turnpike Lane tube station. https://enjoywoodgreen.co.uk/ event-pro/wood-green-funday-2022

Sept 11, 16, 25, Oct 9, 23

Tunnel Boat Trips through the Islington Tunnel from the Canal Museum. Boat trip adult £12, concs £11, child £8. Must book

in advance. Museum open TuesSun: adult £6, concs £5, child £3. London Canal Museum, New Wharf Road, N1 9RT www.canalmuseum.org.uk

Sept 14

Bat Watch Walk

With the rangers. 7pm. Highgate Wood, Muswell Hill Rd, N10 3JN www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/highgatewood-13178257557

Sept 15-Jun 25

Yinka Ilori

The colourful world of artist/ designer Yinka Ilori. Free. Design Museum, W8 6AG. www.designmuseum.org

Sept 17, Nov 19

Making Masks: Japan

Drop in. 10am-4pm. Free, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org

Sept 18

Apple Day

Try unusual varieties, and freshly pressed juice. Broomfield honey will be on sale. Free. Orchard, Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events

Sept 22-25

Depot Open Days: Depot Unlocked

Historians and curators from the London Transport Museum share stories of keeping a collection store with more than 320,000 objects. Adult £15, child £7.50, under-3 free. London Transport Museum, Acton Depot, 2 Museum Way, 118-120 Gunnersbury Lane, Acton, W3 9BQ

www.ltmuseum.co.uk/visit/ museum-depot

Sept 23-Oct 20

The Art of Movement, Van Cleef & Arpels

Exhibition featuring almost 100 creations from the French high jewellery maison. Free. Design Museum, W8 6AG. www.designmuseum.org

Sept 24 Model Railway Show

Fifteen-plus layouts, children’s activities, traders. Adult £5, under16s free. Museum closed today. Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, Whitewebbs Road, EN2 9HP www.whitewebbsmuseum.co.uk

Sept 24, Oct 8, Dec 17

Minecraft Masterpieces: Rome

Try your own Roman construction. Drop in. 10am-4pm. Free, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org

Sept 25

Nearly New Sale

Buy, sell, recycle and save at this sale of quality baby and children’s items from birth to 8 years. Book to sell. 2pm-4pm. Hornsey Parish Church, Cranley Gardens, Muswell Hill N10 3AH.

✉ kathryn@babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk

Sept 27-Oct 11

Stories of Enfield Travelling Exhibition

Exploring 13 stories of Enfield's cultural heritage from the lost Tudor palace of Elsyng to Bangladeshi migration and a famous poet

in Palmers Green. Free. Outer Courtyard, Forty Hall, Forty Hill, EN2 9HA. www.fortyhallestate.co.uk

Sept 29-Oct 2

British Art Fair Modern and Contemporary British Art. Various priced tickets. Saatchi Gallery, SW3 4RY www.saatchigallery.com

Sept 30, Oct 28, Nov 25

Family Fridays Dance workshops for 2-4s and their carers. 2pm. £4. Sadler’s Wells, Theatre, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com

Sept 30-May 28

War Games: Real Conflicts/Virtual Worlds/ Extreme Entertainment Exhibition exploring what video games can tell us about conflict, placing video games alongside realworld artefacts, plus playable retrogaming focusing on the First World War. Age suitability not given. Free. Advance book timed entry or walk up and wait. Imperial War Museum, SE1 6HZ https://www.iwm.org.uk

From Oct 1 Step Into Infinite Space Experience two of Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms. Be immersed in endless reflections. New release of tickets expected. Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG. £10. www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern

Making Masks: Aztecs

Design a mosaic mask inspired by Aztec gods. 10am-4pm. Check website for later dates. Free, drop-

in, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org

Nearly New Sale

Top-quality baby and children’s clothes sold by mums to mums at a fraction of the high street price. Parents with outgrown goods can sell and keep 100 per cent of the proceeds. 10am-12noon. Also Nov 5, Dec 3. St Stephens Church Hall, Park Avenue, EN1 2BA. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

Oct 2, Nov 6 & 20

Family Sundays

Fun-packed creative activities, ideal for 3-10s. Suitable for all. 10am & 1.30pm. Adult £10, under-18 £8. Royal Opera House, Bow St, London WC2E 9DD www.roh.org.uk

Oct 4-May 4

Science Fiction: Voyage to the Edge of Imagination Immersive genre-defying exhibition exploring visions of the future through the science of today. 8+ recommended. Adult £18, child/ concs £16.20. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk london.co.uk

October 7-9

New Scientist Live

80-plus exhibitors and interactive feature areas. All access ticket, adult from £40, child from £17. Excel Centre, E16 1XL https://live.newscientist.com

Oct 9

Family Fun in the Succah

Special Succot storytelling and craft. 2-5 years. 12noon. Free. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk

Festival of The Girl 2022

Not-for-profit enterprise aiming to show girls and their grownups what the future can hold for them.  Activities and workshops from coding to aerospace engineering, gaming to DJing, Bake Off to keyhole surgery, paralympic sports to choreography, activism to mental health, and more. Must register.

Business Design Centre, 52 Upper St, London N1 0QH www.businessdesigncentre.co.uk

Oct 12-16

StART Art Fair

A springboard emerging and established artists from around the world. Check website for ticket info. Saatchi Gallery, SW3 4RY www.saatchigallery.com

Oct 14, Nov 12, Dec 10

Science Fiction Astronights

Space-themed sleepover for 7-11s. £70. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

Oct 14-April 16 Executions

How, over 700 years, public

executions shaped the city we know today. 12+. Various prices. Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

Oct 14-16

OM Yoga Show

Hundreds of free classes with the chance to try something new or revisit an old favourite. Teachers from all over the world. Adult from £17.60. Accompanied under-16s free. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY www.alexandrapalace.com

Oct 16-19

The Knitting & Stitching Show

Stalls, talks, textile art, demonstrations and workshops – some suitable for accompanied children. Adult £18.50, 5-18s £8.50, concs £16. Workshops extra. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY www.alexandrapalace.com

Oct 22-31

Mexico Family Fiesta Immerse yourself in the vibrancy of Mexican culture with a day of fun, family activities, dress-up, carnival dance workshops, parades and art installations. Included with entry to gardens. Adult £15, child £5, various concs. Kew Gardens, Richmond, TW9 3AE www.kew.o rg

Oct 24-30

Halloween at Capel

Dress up for spooks and scares. Adult £8, concs £7, child £5, under2s free. Family £25. Capel Manor Gardens, Enfield, EN1 4RQ.www. capelmanorgardens.co.uk

Half-term

Activities. Lewis of London Ice Cream Farm, Galley Lane, EN5 www.lewisoflondon.co.uk

Oct 25-28

Creative family workshops

prices. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY www.alexandrapalace.com

Nov 9-13

Country Living Christmas Fair Unique gifts, hand-made decorations and artisan food producers. Adult £20, concs £18, child £9. Business Design Centre, 52 Upper St, London N1 0QH www.businessdesigncentre.co.uk

Nov 12

Dress up as a foundling and explore the Hetty Feather Trail. Adults £9.50, concs £7.50, under-21s free. Book online in advance. Closed Mondays. Foundling Museum, 40 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk

Oct 26

Secret Garden Pop-Up Cafe Halloween session. Salisbury House, Bush Hill Park, N9 9LA www.thesecretgardenpopup.com

Oct 31

Halloween Spooky Walks

Join a host of creepy characters on an adventure around Lauderdale House and Waterlow Park on the spookiest night of the year. Various times. £10.50, concs £8.50. Lauderdale House, N6 5HG www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk

Nov 4-5

Ally Pally’s Fireworks Festival

The “Glastonbury of Fireworks” with fire jugglers, funfair, dancing, laser show, fireworks and a big ol’ bonfire. Check website for ticket

The Lord Mayor’s Show 7,000 people, 200 horses and around 150 floats in procession from Mansion House to the Royal Courts and back.

https://lordmayorsshow.london

These venues often have holiday family events No details as we went to press Pollocks Toy Museum www.pollockstoymuseum.co.uk Little Angel Theatre www.littleangeltheatre.com The Cartoon Museum www.cartoonmuseum.org Bank of England Museum www.bankofengland.co.uk Museum of London (check out family walks). EC2Y 5HN. www.museumoflondon.org.uk National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Rd, SW3 4HT. Character meets. www.nam.ac.uk RSPB Rye Meads, SG12 8JS events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey KT8 9AU. Character meets and talks www.hrp.org.uk v Worth checking out: Tottenham Literature Festival 2022, for full programme see www. berniegrantcentre.co.uk Open House Festival https://opencity.org.uk/open-house-festival

Looking ahead... to Panto Season Book early for the best seats

Nov 19-Dec 31

Mother Goose

It’s back – Oh yes it is. And it’s 120 years old, as is the Hackney Empire. What would you do if you found a goose who lays golden eggs? That’s what’s in store for Mother Goose. Live music, laughs and loads of audience participation. Various times/prices. Hackney Empire, E8 1EL. www.hackneyempire.co.uk

Nov 19-Dec 31

The Snowman

With colourful sets, extravagant costumes and exuberant dancing. Various times. Nov 30 2.30pm relaxed. From £18. Peacock Theatre, WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com

Nov 19-Jan 7

Jack and the Beanstalk

With music, dance and comedy. 6+. Various times. From £10. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk

Nov 19-Jan 29

The Pixie and the Pudding Enchanting Scandinavian folklore about a delicious steamed pudding left out on the windowsill on Christmas Eve. 4-11s. Various times, prices. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2DN www.littleangeltheatre.com

Nov 23-Dec 31

Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas

For under-6s. Various times. From £10. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk

The Nutcracker, with over 100 dancers, ENB, Dec 15-Jan 7

Nov 23-Jan 7

Jack! Playing is Believing… Can video game fan Jack complete all the levels of The Beanstalk and conquer his fears in this spectacular Christmas show – with a cast of over 200 on stage for each performance. Tickets from £10. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Nov 27

Jack Frost and the Search for Winter

Jack loses his magical icy touch and searches the world for winter, meeting characters who share his seasonal winter magic. Can he get

his magic back? 3+. 11am & 2pm. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Nov 29-Jan 15

Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty

A wondrous world of magical fairies and vampires, where the tale of good vs evil is turned upside down. Various times. Jan 7, 2.30pm, audio described and touch tour. From £15. Sadler’s Wells, Theatre, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com

Dec 3&4, and Dec 10-30

Christmas Tales from the Shed Vibrant, inclusive, informal and educational show. Suitable for 0-6s. 10am & 11.30am. Seated in Rayne Theatre. Adults & children £10. Under 6mths free, must book. Early booking offer for Dec 3&4. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Dec 2-Jan 1

Christmas at Kenwood Light trail. Kenwood, NW3 7JR. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ whats-on/kenwood-christmas-atkenwood

Dec 5-Jan 2

The Smeds and The Smoos Music, laughs and interplanetary adventures from Tall Stories’ adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. 3+. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Dec 6-30

Snow White and the Seven Superheroes

Various times, prices. Millfield

Theatre, N18 1PJ. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Dec 9-31

Dick Whittington and his Cat Join Dick, his acrobatic cat and a cast of crazy characters on the adventure of a lifetime. Various times. Child from £16.50, adult from £19.50, Under 1s in arms £5. Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar, EN6 2HZ

https://wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

Dec 14-Jan 1 Jack and The Beanstalk

Packed with circus moments, shadow puppets and beanstalkclimbing action. Be prepared to reimagine what you know about giants. 3+. Various times. From £12. Jackson’s Lane, N6 www.jacksonslane.org.uk

Dec 15-31 Snow

Magical, immersive, multi-sensory adventure with live music and puppetry. Holly and Juniper can't wait to play when the world outside is blanketed in snow. 2-5s. Various times. See website for relaxed performances. From £12. artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Dec 15-Jan 7

Nutcracker

The English National Ballet sets up a Christmas treat (pictured) with more than 100 dancers and musicians bringing this festive classic to life with exquisite dancing, beautiful sets and Tchaikovsky’s popular score played live. Join Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker as they discover the sparkling Land of Snow, vanquish the Mouse King and visit a beautiful puppet theatre that comes to life with dancers from around the world. From £15. Various times. London Coliseum, St Martin’s Ln, London WC2N 4ES https://londoncoliseum.org

Dec 15-Jan 8

Demon Dentist

An electrifiying tale by David Walliams. Relaxed performance Jan 2. Various prices. Bloomsbury Theatre and Studio, WC1H 0AH www.ucl.ac.uk/culture/whats-on/ demon-dentist

Dec 16, 20 & 28

Christmas Planet Play

Magical, interactive, sensory show with songs, music and movement for 0-3s. Times vary. Seated in Rayne Theatre. Adults £10, children & babies, free, must book. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Dec 18 Baby Broadway Christmas Well-known numbers from favourite shows performed by West End singers, plus bubbles, poetry dance and audience interaction. All ages. 10am & 11.15am, £7. Under 6mths

free. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Dec 19-23

Dine With Santa It’s what it says on the tin. A treat for you and them. Adults £38, children £28. Knebworth, SG1 2AX. www.knebworthhouse.com

Dec 22-31

Disney on Ice: Dream Big With all your favourite Disney friends. Various times, prices. The O2, Peninsula Square, SE10, 0DX. www.theo2.co.uk

Dec 24-31

The Nutcracker

Let’s All Dance, known for making high-quality ballet accessible for children and families. Promises to be spectacular and lavish. 1pm & 3pm. From £19. Under 18mths free. Sadler’s Wells, EC1R 4TN. www.sadlerswells.com

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

clueQuest

Build teamwork, communication and problemsolving skills with our escape rooms. 8+. Choose your challenge. Tackle it as a family, for a party, or as a group of adults. Our Games Hosts ensure an exciting, enjoyable experience with challenge at the right level. clueQuest is at 169-171 Caledonian Road, N1 0SL. ✉escape@cluequest. co.uk 07798 772 382

OFFER Use code FAMILY for £10 off per booking on in-person games at https://cluequest.co.uk

Magpie Eye Photography

Booking now for Autumn Minis photoshoots –see front cover. I shoot documentary/candid style images, leaving you and your kids free to get on with something you love. No posing, cajoling or treat promising required. ✉magpie.eye. photography@gmail.com www.magpieeyekids.com

Little Supernovas create imaginative parties with an adventure tailored to your child’s wishes and theme and include all their favourite magical characters and stories. Our parties incorporate action storytelling, music, props, drama, movement and plenty of giggles. We run Holiday Clubs too. www.littlesupernovas.com/parties ✉hello@littlesupernovas.com

N-Sun Café (Ballards Lane, Finchley, N3) kids cafe with soft play, spacious venue for parties, classes and activities too. 07399947748. https://n-sun.co.uk

After Sch Club/Education

Ant Learning

Highly recommended and sought after professional tutoring, experienced in developing and preparing children to learn, lead and succeed all around. Reading, English, Maths, verbal and nonverbal reasoning, ages 3 ½ -13. Book a trial and free assessment today 0208 050 5798. www.antlearning.co.uk & Celebrations

After-School Learning

The After-School Learning Centre caters for all children aged 4-18 and Is totally dedicated to helping your child achieve the best grades possible in English, Maths, Science, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning and Mandarin through personalised and tailored one-to-one tutoring. Located in North London and Southgate. www.afterschoollearning.com

Magic of India Hindi Classes

Speak Hindi from the first lesson. No previous knowledge is needed. We run small group zoom classes. We have missed class: support & recording. Classes: 5 to 7 years, 8 to 14 years, 15-18 years and adult. Private lessons too. Free trial class - beginner to advanced level including an evaluation at a time suitable to you. We run quick learning Holiday clubs too. www.magicofindia.org

We offer support from age 5 to university, understanding your child’s needs and matching them with one of our highly-qualified passionate educators who will create a tailored learning plan. Hillgate Tutors listen, guide, encourage and monitor them to help your child achieve their absolute best. Tutoring at your home or online. 07748 956581 to discuss. www.hillgatetutors.co.uk

Vincent & Frida

Art appreciation lessons designed to ignite in your child, a love for art and its stories. Art will become much more than pictures to them and your child will enter the world of wonder. We offer private lessons, holiday workshops and family sessions. Discover more www.vincentandfrida.com

Performing Arts

Perform Classes

Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Holiday clubs. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class.

Venues: N1, N2, N4, N5, NEW classes in N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, NEW classes in N13, N14, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11

Coming Soon: N1 Thurs 6.05pm, N7 Tues 4pm & 5.05pm, N13 Thurs 4pm & 5.05pm, NW5 Mon 4pm & 5.05pm, NW2 Thurs 4pm & 5.05pm. Contact: 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

Stagecoach Highgate Stagecoach Highgate for a brilliant start and long-term success in music!

Music

Develop your child’s musical talent in Kodaly-based music kindergartens and instrumental programmes from six months – 19 years. Call 020 8444 9435 for a trial of 3 discounted lessons or email admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk Tutors

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

Stage Academy

Building self-confidence, teamwork, ambition and responsibility, we unlock the potential inside every young person, giving them the chance to be the stars of tomorrow - on stage or off. Book a free trial to discover the Stage Academy difference - and to secure your place for September. Act, sing, dance and succeed! https://stageacademy.co.uk

Achieve Arts

Unlock creativity, solo speaking skills, performance skills, confidence, improvisation and characterisation at our classes for 4-16s, in Crouch End, Muswell Hill, New Harringay Ladder, Tufnell Park, Hampstead Garden Suburb, New Mill Hill, and Pinner. Online too. And we run our own agency for those who wish to work professionally. 100% Lamda success rate. Book a free trial. www.achievearts.co.uk

Hyland House School Schools & Nurseries

Saturday workshops in Camden, drama, singing, dance and film, taught by leading industry professionals, 9.30am to 2pm, for 4-6s and 7-18s. Accessible to all young people who wish to build confidence, self-esteem, life skills or pursue a career in the arts. Sign up for no-obligation taster day. Other branches in Hackney, Docklands, Greenwich. Adults' classes (acting, singing,dance, musical theatre). Plus agency. www. afperformingarts.com/theatreand-film-school/schools/camden

A Christian, independent school, we empower our 2 to 11-year-olds to aim high and dream big. Our children are achieving excellence. Our Early Years is Ofsted-graded Outstanding. Years 1-6 are graded Good. Please contact us for more information or to arrange a visit. Hyland House School is at 97 Holcombe Road, Tottenham, London, N17 9AB. 020 8520 4186. Email info@hylandhouseschool.org www.hylandhouseschool.org

Mars Montessori in Angel is a small bilingual French-English Montessori nursery. We provide very highquality childcare in a nurturing environment in two languages. In September 2018, we introduced an Introduction to Mandarin programme, and we are proud of the brilliant take up. In April 2018, we were given the highest possible rating of OUTSTANDING by Ofsted in every category. 020 7099 0452 www.bilingualnurseries.com

Mars Montessori

Anna Fiorentini

Children’s classes

King Alfred School

We know that each child is unique and has their own set of strengths and areas to develop. Our child-centred approach allows us to foster joy and understanding of the learning process. We have instituted childfriendly, rigourous and informal testing. We celebrate commitment, curiousity, courage and compassion to create the foundations for happy, successful and fulfilling lives. We are rated excellent in all areas.

PLAY, LEARN AND GROW with the Plus Programme

www.kingalfred.org.uk

North Bridge House Schools

Independent school for children aged 2 to 18, on six locations for different age groups. We understand that success is not simply defined by outstanding academic achievement, but by every pupil finding a direction in life that truly reflects their unique talents and personality. Call admissions to check for occasional immediate places on 020 7428 1520.

The Plus Programme is a comprehensive early learning programme designed by teachers for parents with children aged 12 to 30 months.

Learn and Play sessions at St Anthony’s Schools

about the Montessori approach and watch demonstrations of Montesso ri materials, meet teachers and ask questions. To register for an event, please go to bit.ly/MMIvisit

Exclusive parenting workshops

Bespoke home learning materials

And much more!

www.northbridgehouse.com

Broomfield School

Open Evening October 4

We aim to provide outstanding secondary education for our diverse and dynamic community, with emphasis on high standards, inclusion and supporting social mobility. We offer a broad, balanced curriculum and extensive enrichment activities.

✉office@broomfield.enfield.sch.uk

Baby & Toddler

The Plus Programme

Join our comprehensive early learning programme from Alpha Plus independent schools, designed by teachers for parents with children 12 to 30 months. Learn and Play sessions at St Anthony’s Schools, exclusive parenting workshops, bespoke home learning materials and much more. Play, Learn and Grow with the Plus Programme. ✉plus@stanthonysgirls.co.uk

Diddidance We create a funky pre-school dance class suitable for all children. We are here to nurture their love of movement in a relaxed environment and cover 16 dance styles. Classes are suitable for toddlers aged from 18 months upwards however if they’re younger and steady on their feet, come and join us! We run classes in Enfield, Cheshunt and Potters Bar. Constantina—07983972095 ✉constantina.menezes@diddidance.com www.diddidance.com

Tiny Talk Learn to communicate with your baby before they can speak, at an award-winning TinyTalk baby signing class. Interactive music class and sensory activities, plus time for a cuppa. www.TinyTalk.co.uk/zahrak

Sports & Exercise

St Kiernan’s Gaelic Football Club

Inclusive, fun environment for kids and adults to learn this high intensity game. Teams from under-6s to senior men and ladies of all abilities. We welcome newcomers to all age groups and the sport can be picked up easily from our excellent coaches. Summer training at our new facility at King George Playing Fields, Barnet Lane, EN5. Winter training is at Woodhouse College, North Finchley. Call Chris Byrne on 07984 184003 or Declan Ryan on 07818 023639.

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

Grown-ups Matter Too

Mei Quan Tai Chi

Re-energise, and increase well-being, strength and flexibility with experienced instructors teaching all elements of Tai Chi and Qi Gong at our welcoming classes. W Hampstead, Highbury & Islington, Highgate, Enfield, Stoke Newington, E Finchley, Crouch End & Hornsey, Old St, Camden, Muswell Hill, Hackney, Walthamstow and more. Online too. https://taichinews.com

Rebel Business School

Get your business idea off the ground with a free course from Rebel Business School — a funded initiative to boost business start-ups and to help businesses grow. You don’t need a complex business plan or a loan. Starting a business is achievable for anyone and everyone. Rebel Business School helps businesses start and grow, gives the skills needed and it’s completely free.

The next course starts on October 17 and is free to attend. Find out more therebelschool.com/enfield

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