Families London SW Issue 252 December 2015

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SouthWest

December 2015

Where is SANTA? Christmas holiday

ACTIVITIES First Christmas after divorce Make your own Christmas tree decorations

Carol services suitable for children

Pantomimes How to prevent coughs and COLDS

“Families® SW” – useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in SW London.

Find us online: FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

ISSN 1354-9553 Est 1990.

Enabling dreams through knowing each child Our children come from Clapham, Vauxhall, Battersea, Brixton, Stockwell.

We also provide a broad creative curriculum emphasising art, sport, music and outdoor learning, particularly in our extraordinary Wildlife Garden Our incredibly high academic expectations mean we are in the top 6% of state schools nationally for progress made by the children Strong relationships with our families lie at the heart of everything we do

Come for a tour of our school: Tues 1st Dec - 9.30am Sat 12th Dec - 10.00am Wed 16th Dec - 9.30am Wed 6th Jan - 9.30am Thurs 7th Jan - 9.30am Sat 9th Jan - 10.00am

admin@heathbrook.lambeth.sch.uk 020 7622 4101 St Rule Street, London SW8 3EH www.heathbrook.org @HeathbrookPri

Ofsted Registered

We accept Childcare Vouchers

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December 2015

We specialise in:

• Adult and Baby lessons • Toddler lessons • Learn To Swim classes • Pre-Club Squad Training for Children • Adult Beginners and Intermediate Training

Cindy’s Swim School is focused on delivering a variety of personalised lessons to local families.

We have a passion for swimming instruction and practice within a structured and safe environment.

Our swimmers learn the joys of swimming and stroke technique with programmes incorporating games and exercise to improve each swimmer’s confidence in the water.

• Ha lf-term • Sw im Clu Crash Cour ses bs for adva m • Ho nced swimm ore liday C e rash C rs ourses

Quote 'SWF-1' to get 1 lesson free when booking into the January 2016 Spring term Adult&Baby swimming course. For new customers only.

cindy@cindysswimschool.co.uk

December 2015

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07902 782675

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December 2015

Contents

December 2015

06-09

Local News

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Learning to be happy

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Make edible Christmas decorations

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SouthWest DECEMBER 2015

06-09

15

How to prevent coughs and colds

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Health

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16-17 All content ©Families SW 2015 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 Editorial: editor@familiessouthwest.co.uk News: news@familiessouthwest.co.uk Adverts/artwork: adverts@familiessouthwest.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on info: whatson@familiessouthwest.co.uk Next issue: Jan/Feb 2015.

Deadline: Early December 2015

Fantastic local shopping 12

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Gift Guide

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The first Christmas after a divorce

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Where is Santa?

23-26

Christmas holiday activities

27-28

The best Christmas shows

• 'Families SW' London, established in 1990, is part of

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Families Magazines Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of 'Families SW' are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher.

There are nearly 40 UK local editions with a print run of more than 700,000 copies in all, in which you can advertise too.

Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd, Pewsey, Wiltshire.

Designed by Shirley Trimmer We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources — meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced.

Inks are soya-based, which can be re-cycled.

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What’s On • Diary dates & events • Theatre • Museums & Galleries • Days out

ADVERTISE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE: Contact us on 020 8696 9680 Find us on Facebook & Twitter FamiliesSW

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News Compiled by Joanna Parry

First urban Go Ape opens in Battersea Park this month Set amongst Battersea Park’s tallest trees, Go Ape Battersea Park will offer a new twist on the wellestablished Tree Top Adventure. Higher and more physically challenging in parts, it’s an exciting tree top obstacle course that is suitable and safe for anyone aged six and over. Tristram Mayhew, Chief Gorilla, commented: “We’ve long wanted to bring our award winning high wire tree top adventure to the centre of London, and are delighted that Go Ape in Battersea Park is a 1st for any city in the UK. The highest obstacle crossings are double the height of most Go Ape courses, and many are twice as long as usual, making them extra wobbly and challenging. We believe we have designed a naturally thrilling test of nerves high up in Battersea’s tree tops. We look forward to welcoming Londoners and seeing if they are up to our challenge!” Bookings live at : goape.co.uk/battersea-park

The revolution is here… …at least, the safe cycling one is.

Hammersmith and Fulham have launched a new strategy to start the safe cycling revolution, making the borough’s roads safer for everyone. The H&F Cycling Strategy 2015 will create safer roads and reduce pollution by making cycling simpler and more accessible for both cyclists and pedestrians. ‘We made a promise to make our roads better for cycling and safer for everyone,’ said Cllr Wesley Harcourt, H&F Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment. One of the main obstacles to cycling is the Hammersmith Gyratory which, amongst other junctions, will be improved.

They have even appointed a new Cycling Champion for the Borough! Find out more at : lbhf.gov.uk or email cycling@lbhf.gov.uk

Donated toys needed for St George’s hospital Do you have unused toys at home? St George’s Hospital always welcomes donated toys for their children and young people. Being in hospital is difficult at any time, and your donated toys really help to put a smile on our patient’s faces.

They only accept toys that are in very good condition and wipe able for infection control reasons, no soft bodied or material toys. Wooden toys are acceptable if they are lacquered. Only new books but Jigsaw puzzles that are in good condition and have all the pieces are ok. Deliver toys to St George’s Hospital, Central Playroom, 5th Floor Lanesborough Wing, Blackshaw Road SW170QT. Contact Justine-Louise Makin of The Play Team on ( 8725 0331.

Will you support your local small businesses this December? Why not pledge to purchase your Christmas shopping locally this year, and help your local economy at the same time. What better time to start than Small Business Saturday, which this year will be on 5 December.

Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots, noncommercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities. Local businesses will have offers and activities for example the lovely Pappa Ciccia, a family Trattoria in Putney, will offer a free home made tiramisu!

To see details of businesses close to you which are taking part go to : smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com

Free toys for your local toy library Bizzy Bitz is a relatively new construction toy system. In order to celebrate the launch of new clear instruction sheets, Bizzy Bitz is donating 100's of boxes of 350 pieces of their building blocks to Toy Libraries around the country. If you are a mum who borrows toys from a Toy Library and would like your child to have a play with Bizzy Bitz, please ask them to contact info@bizzy-bitz.com and they will be sent a box (if they have not yet received one).

Yellowbird Saturday chess club

Local school Heathbrook Primary tops national rankings Well done to Heathbrook Primary, a state school located on Lambeth/Wandsworth borders in SW8, which has been named in the top 6% of schools nationally for progress made by the children. The school has retained its focus on a rounded education despite Ofsted changes and has fantastic arts, sports, music and outdoor learning emphasis in its vast grounds and large on-site wildlife garden. Heathbrook takes children from Clapham, Vauxhall, Battersea, Stockwell and Brixton. To join a school tour, visit : heathbrook.org/about/admissions-2/

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Let’s all join Small Business Saturday

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Chess Club has gained popularity in Fulham thanks to Yellowbird. The School Search and Placement company runs educational workshops and courses designed to build confidence in Literacy, exam practice and experience, and provide professional feedback on ways to improve performance. Yellowbird Education runs a Saturday Chess club from 3-4.30pm for children 6-12 years old. They say: “When children play chess they must call upon higherorder thinking skills, analyse actions and consequences, and visualise future possibilities. We teach in an enthusiastic, fun, energetic and imaginative style.” ( 7731 0695 : yellowbirdeducation.com

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December 2015

Fulham goes trafficfree on 12th December

The Positive Birth Movement adds voice to calls to ban One Born Every Minute

This Christmas enjoy traffic-free festive fun at the North End Road Christmas market, with entertainment including the Glitter Belles – stilt walkers who look like giant-sized baubles! On 12 December, North End Road will be pedestrianised and packed with stalls selling Christmas presents plus entertainment for the whole family. As well as the ever-popular fruit and veg stalls there will be more than 100 new stalls offering hand-made decorations and crafts, street food and mulled wine, plus music and carols from the Fulham Brass band, a giant Christmas tree and oversized reindeer. To find out more call ( 7835 5695 or email Nicki.Burgess@lbhf.gov.uk

Get skating… …at the new skateboard and BMX bike park in King George’s Park, Kimber Road SW18 4NY. The park has been set up by local Wandsworth businessman Darren Bolger, who also plans to employ Mick Dougan, former Australian and World BMX Champion to be Project Manager. Plus, he will donate three brand new BMX bikes and many other bike parts to the park.

Sounds great! Find out more at : londonbuildingspecialists.com

New book to help parents with children suffering from hip condition Cast Life – A Parent’s Guide to DDH was published this autumn and offers a vital lifeline to parents with children suffering from Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH).

DDH occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint do not fit snugly together and whilst it can affect around one child in every thousand, information and support is shockingly poor, often leaving parents feeling confused about what happens next.

Inspired by her son who was diagnosed at four months, the author, Natalie Trice, passionately believes that there needs to be more awareness of DDH, which if left untreated, can lead to long term disability, hip replacements and life long pain.

Cast Life is available on Amazon and Natalie has also set up a charity called Spica Warrior offering information about DDH, 10% of the royalties will be going to this cause. She also blogs about the condition at : justbecauseilove.co.uk

“The current version of the Channel 4 show gives birth a bad image and terrifies women”, says PBM Founder Milli Hill. Back in July, when the new series launched, Mili wrote: "Thanks to One Born Every Minute, most women assume that being terrified of giving birth is a perfectly normal and acceptable state of being. And actually, I think it IS normal to be terrified, not of giving birth, but of giving birth the way most women do on One Born. The bright lights, the hospital gowns, the machinery, the instruments…

And film after film of distressed looking women lying on their backs and being told to “Push into your bottom” is having an effect that goes deeper than simple fear. These images are shaping women’s expectations, to the point where this televisual version of birth is becoming so totally entwined with reality that it’s impossible to tell life from art, fiction from fact. What we see, slowly but surely, becomes what we get." ..

"The idea that OBEM is making birth worse for women is not a new one to many midwives, campaigners and experts who have, for a long time, felt frustrated with the very one-size-fits-all and melodramatic approach to birth the programme represents.

Many also feel that OBEM highlights non evidencebased practice - for example, we see women giving birth on their backs, we don't see delayed cord clamping, skin to skin or breastfeeding. We also often see women being 'told' what is about to happen to them, rather then being offered the evidence and allowed autonomy of choice."

For further info or to find a local group see : positivebirthmovement.org

How rich is the tooth fairy?

A UK-based study of 1,000 parents with children aged 5-14 was carried out by the home of fairy and elf doors The Magic Door Store. The survey revealed that ‘tooth fairies’ shell out anything from £1 up to £2.50 per tooth, with a UK average of £1.32 being left in exchange for a single tooth. This means we have left almost £20 million under pillows in the last 12 months.

(Blimey! how much does your tooth fairy leave?

The going rate in our family is a meager 50p!) : themagicdoorstore.com

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Tampons contaminated with glyphosate 85 percent of tampons, cotton and sanitary products tested in a new Argentinian study contained glyphosate, the key ingredient in herbicide, and ruled a likely carcinogen by the World Health Organization. To be on the safe side, only use natural brands like Natracare.

Re-usable mooncup Since we are on the theme, have you ever tried the very safe reusable Mooncup? It is latex-free and contains no dyes, BPA, toxins or bleaches, an ecofriendly alternative to tampons and sanitary pads. In the long term you’ll save so much money too!

Widely available.

50 things to do … when it’s dark The National Trust’s landmark ’50 Things to Do Before You’re 11 ¾’ campaign encourages children to get outside and enjoy nature. This new set of challenges is even more exciting as they’re in the dark!

Can you complete all 50?

December 2015

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Inclusion in these pages is always FREE: send to news@familiessouthwest.co.uk

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News

Important new guidelines for baby swimming

Water Babies

The ASA, the Amateur Swimming Association, which is the governing body for swimming in the UK, has compiled a list of important factors to take into consideration when choosing a swim school for your baby.

• Ensure that the swim school and their teachers are registered with the necessary regulations boards, in this case the ASA, and be fully insured with public liability insurance and professional indemnity protection to £10 million.

• There should always be someone present at your lesson with an up to date first-aid and lifeguard qualification. This is normally the teacher in smaller pools.

• All children under the age of 4 years should wear a double-nappy system – a disposable/reusable swim nappy, as well as a snug-fitting neoprene nappy over the swim nappy that is close-fitting leg and waist ribs.

• Pools should be heated to at least 32 degrees for babies 0-3 months old, and 30 degrees for babies 3-12 months old. Pools should not be warmer than 35 degrees.

• Your swim school should ensure that their pools are safely operated to the highest health and safety standards, by carrying out regular risk assessments for their pools.

New home for MJPS Mosaic Jewish Primary School has finally moved into its permanent home in Roehampton.

This autumn marks the school’s two year anniversary as South London's first and only Jewish primary school; since then the school has grown to four classes spanning Reception to Year Two, has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted and has now moved into its new home. To mark this significant milestone the school celebrated by fixing a mezuzot to the exterior doors of the new school building. Mosaic Jewish Primary School 170 Roehampton Lane SW15 4EU ( 8944 8731 : mjps.org.uk

Do you find it hard to find a good tutor?

Local mothers Clare Pelham and Alison Brunton had the same problem. With children trying for places in top schools they needed good tutors.

Over the years they painstakingly vetted many tutors personally and soon they were inundated with people wanting to hear about them too!

The two local mothers decided to collaborate to form an agency, which they called Chelsea and Fulham Tutors. Their company is particularly selective in hiring tutors and they keep their commission as low as possible by working from home to cut costs. “As parents ourselves, we have an endless network of students, teachers and other parents, so we get the inside scoop on schools.” : chelseaandfulhamtutors.co.uk

When choosing a lesson style: • Some swim schools have fully structured lesson plans, with clear aims to ensure proper progression. Other swim schools have less developed structures and can be more free play focused, so make sure you know which you’re getting.

• Putting your baby under the water is an important part of learning how to swim, however, it should not be the main focus of the lesson.

For more information about baby lessons in your area, please contact us on ( 07902 782675 or cindy@cindysswimschool.co.uk

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FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

NEW Bilingual (French/English) stream Give your child a unique opportunity to develop fluency and learning in another language.

Shaftesbury Park Primary School in Battersea now offers two streams: English only or bilingual (French/English). While all children will be following the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage [EYFS]/ National Curriculum in KS1 and 2, there will be an international dimension with opportunities to speak, play and read in French. In the bilingual stream reading, writing and maths will be in English and the other areas of the curriculum will be taught in French.

Formalised French literacy will be introduced from Year 2 onwards. The headteacher Mrs Bunmi Richards says: "This exciting and unique opportunity enables us to provide an ambitious and stimulating learning culture where the development of other languages and an understanding of other cultures is high priority.

This initiative will be beneficial for all learners at the school, not just those children who are in the bilingual classes and we look forward to replicating the best practice seen in other bilingual settings.’

• Shaftesbury Park Primary School, Ashbury Road, Battersea, London SW11 5UW ( 7228 3652 jparmenter@shaftesburypark.wandsworth.sch.uk

Local What’s On newsletters Stuck for things to do with the children?

•Subscribe to localmummy.com a free weekly newsletter set up by two mums with all the best kids events locally to you. Join up to their free weekly newsletter and a localmummy promise is that they will only send you top events and nothing else!

•Families newsletter is also packed with events and things to do - Sign up on our homepage : familiessouthwest.co.uk

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December 2015

News STREAM Children’s Book Festival Streatham & Clapham High School (SCHS) held its second STREAM South London Children’s Book Festival on Saturday, 8 November. The Festival was opened by illustrator, author and Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell together with poet, writer and performer Michael Rosen with their first book together, A Great Big Cuddle. The audience of over 500 were charmed and entertained by Michael’s poetry accompanied by simultaneous drawing

by Chris.

Visitors also attended a session with Francesca Simon, author of the Horrid Henry series, and Steven Butler, author of The Diary of Dennis the Menace, for a David Baddiel at STREAM Book Festival hilarious battle out over which of their characters was the naughtiest. With almost 30 events to choose from, there was something for every reader from nursery school age through to Young Adult.

Members of SCHS, other schools and the wider community filled events in nine venues and were delighted to meet their favourite authors at the book signings. The school was filled with avid readers and engaged children, together with their families, attending the Festival.

Planning for STREAM2016 has started!

New nursery in Wandsworth The Playtime Nurseries have been voted number One day nursery in South East England by parents and number 7th in the U.K! They told us: "We understand the importance of choosing the right childcare that's why we make sure that all our nurseries are run to the highest standards." Wandsworth Playtime is opening in January 2016 with 3 open planned childcare rooms, a relaxing baby suite, wonderful kitchen/dining area, CCTV and up to date technology. Do visit their website for more details at : playtimenurseries.com

Party with the crocs Check out the only not-forprofit children's party provider in the UK. Smiles and Crocodiles has been steadily growing for 8 years and now takes party bookings in and around London.

Choose from a selection of children's entertainers for your little one’s next bash, knowing that when you book a party with them all profits go to The Flying Seagulls, a project that travels the world bringing fun and laughter, circus skills and magic to some of the world's forgotten children and communities in Cambodia, Ghana, Albania and Romania. Find out more at : theflyingseagullproject.com or email Smarties and Crocodiles at parties@theflyingseagullproject.com

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News from Parsons Green Prep Parsons Green Prep, an independent day school in Fulham for 200 boys and girls from 4 to 11 years of age, has just launched a brand new website : parsonsgreenprep.co.uk The indepth site is easy to navigate and has sections covering the curriculum, the school’s extensive after-school clubs programme and school news.

Galleries include everything from academia to the Christmas play and the site also contains a parents-only area featuring an events calendar, forthcoming sporting fixtures and weekly news emails.

1 Fulham Park Road, Fulham, London SW6 4LJ.

Youngest entrepreneurs in Dragons’ Den Sisters Kia and Sky Ballantyne, aged 14 and 12, became the youngest entrepreneurs to ever pitch to the formidable Dragons’ Den panel. Their clever product, a harness for children who are learning to ride their bike, started as school homework, and has grown into a business. They are now selling their Crikey Bikey® harness on their website : crikeybikey.com and in national retailers such as Evans Cycles and Mountain Warehouse. The girls are running their business largely by themselves. A clever idea!

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SONG ACADEMY W, SW, C The leading Singing & Songwriting club for 8-16 year olds Hammersmith, Chelsea, Fulham, Notting Hill & Chiswick

Plus holiday workshops, birthday parties & Young Songwriter competition.

Perfect outlet for creative & musical kids, and we develop vital skills for achieving at school & beyond.

Contact@songacademy.co.uk 07710 023743

www.songacademy.co.uk

Nurturing and developing young people's potential through dance, drama and singing.

For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

Stagecoach Schools enrolling now Battersea Fulham Merton Park & Tooting Putney Wimbledon www.stagecoach.co.uk

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020 8946 0845 202 020 8942 0845 265 020 8946

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

2986 5727 3502 7050 3400

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Happiness

Can one learn to be happy?

Turn on the news and you’re confronted with one inhumane atrocity after another. Switch the channel and you’re slammed with reality shows telling you how great everybody else’s lives are while yours is the living embodiment of mediocrity. It’s gone midnight and you’re still answering emails. Every exhausted cell in your body is screaming out, “Is this it? Is this as good as it’s going to get? When will I be happy?”

That’s what Action for Happiness is trying to help us all figure out. Action for Happiness is a non-secular UK-based movement of people taking action for a happier world, which has over 55,000 members in 160 countries.

Recently, with the support of His Holiness The Dalai Lama, Action for Happiness launched Exploring What Matters, a revolutionary new course which helps people discover how to live a happier and kinder life.

Why is a happiness course important?

We spend millions of pounds on things and services trying to make ourselves happy, but it’s not working. In fact, there is clear evidence that modern society is not getting happier, despite all our apparent material and financial progress. According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2013, more than 3.5 million days were lost to sick days for stress, depression and anxiety in London and the South-East alone. Levels of stress and depression are on the rise, while levels of social cohesion and trust have been falling.

with false messages about what makes for a happy life. The Exploring What Matters course helps people discover for themselves that real success has much less to do with what we earn or consume – and much more to do with our inner attitudes, our relationships with others and our contribution to society”.

What’s involved Exploring What Matters is an 8-week course where you can explore some of life's big questions with a friendly local group of like-minded people. It is based on the latest scientific evidence and is intended for people of all backgrounds.

Each weekly session lasts two hours and explores a big question. They start with “What really matters in life?” and then “What really makes us happy?”. These are followed by sessions on dealing with adversity, having good relationships, caring for others, and creating happier workplaces and communities. They end with “How can we create a happier world?”

How can a course help?

Some of the most inspiring and life-changing things happen when people have meaningful conversations together in small face-to-face groups. The Exploring What Matters course was created to encourage these powerful conversations and to explore some of life’s most important questions.

Action for Happiness believes that a greater focus on happiness - and what really contributes to it - is urgently needed. It can help people discover more happiness as individuals, but it can also help us take more practical action together for a happier and kinder world. Director of Action for Happiness, Dr Mark Williamson said, “In the modern world we are bombarded

Analysis of the course has found that it leaves people both happier and more pro-social, with participants reporting increases in levels of life satisfaction, mental wellbeing, compassion and social trust. Many say the course is life-changing. Course participant and Personal Development Coach, Anne-Marie Rodriguez de Killeen shares, “I thought I was I was going to learn some top tips to help me find greater happiness in my day to day life. What I got was a complete reality check and a new, deeper and richer way of viewing the world and interacting with every community I engage with.”

To find out more about the course visit www.actionforhappiness.org/course

There will be a course starting in Streatham in the New Year, keep an eye on the website!

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FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

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December 2015

Preparing for Christmas Christmas cookie tree decorations These delicious shortbread stars will look great on the tree – but we suspect they won’t be there long! This is such a simple recipe, with only three ingredients and it is quick and easy to make but shortbread is always a favourite.

These can also be given as a Christmas present to an auntie, granny etc Time needed: About half an hour, including baking time

Ingredients

You will need:

Plain flour, 200g Cool butter, 100g Caster sugar, 50g Writing icing, white, green, red (great for drawing lines and shapes) Decorations in silver, red, green, gold or white

Large bowl Sieve Flat baking trays Star cookie cutters (or other festive shapes) Clean pencil Silver, gold, white, green or red ribbon

Method: 1. With your child, measure the flour and then let your little one spoon the flour into the sieve, held above the bowl.

Sift the flour.

2. Add the sugar 3. Add the butter, cut into cubes.

4. With clean hands, show your child how to rub the butter into the flour. Keep rubbing then kneading and it should come together into a ball.

5. Without over-working the dough, roll it out on a flat surface, dusted with flour.

6. Using the cookie cutters, help your child stamp out star shapes and place them on the baking tray. Use the blunt end of the clean pencil to make a hole at the top of one of the points for the ribbon.

Bake at 320F/160C/Gas 6 for 12-15 minutes until golden. When cool, decorate with writing icing and any other decorations you like, such as sugar balls. Hang on the tree!

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Dawmouse Montessori Nursery School “To assist a child we must provide him with an environment which will able him to develop freely” Maria Montessori

Celebrating 20 years of excellence in Montessori teaching Come and visit one of our two Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools in Fulham and discover why we have enjoyed such a long period of success teaching children from 2yrs to 5yrs in their early years education.

To learn more about us just visit our new web site at www.dawmouse.co.uk or email miss.emma@dawmouse.com

www.dawmouse.co.uk

Tel: 020 83989294

Passionate about teaching and learning

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FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

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December 2015

Health

Coughs and sneezes How to cope with winter woes

By Sally J. Hall

Prevention is key!

Why is it that out of three children exposed to a respiratory germ, only one will remain unaffected? Louis Pasteur, the father of the germ theory, recognized this when he said “The germ is nothing, the terrain everything”.

There are over 200 separate cold viruses around, so it’s no wonder that our children seem to come down with a cold almost every five minutes. And with the weather being gloomy and the days getting dark so early, we all tend to feel a little more run down than usual.

We still don’t know exactly what causes the “Common Cold” but we are all familiar with the symptoms. A runny nose, sore throat, a temperature and a general feeling of poor health are only too familiar.

When do you let nature run its course and when do you call the doctor?

For very small children and babies, the worst effect may be a blocked nose that stops him being able to breath properly.

This can interfere with breastfeeding, as it’s difficult to feed with a blocked nose. Clear blocked nostrils gently with a soft cloth soaked in sterile saline solution or if really blocked, a nasal aspirator.

You can try to help relieve the symptoms by using a decongestant rub on your child’s chest at night or by using a few drops of a decongestant spray or eucalyptus oil on a tissue; leave it near (though not in reach) of your baby as he sleeps. You could also use a

December 2015

vaporiser or humidifier in your child’s bedroom to help with breathing.

Sleep may be affected, especially if your child has a cough, so try to encourage naps during the day– and you may need one yourself if your little one has kept you up half the night!

If your little one has a slight fever, this can be dealt with using an infant paracetamol or ibuprofen solution but make sure you read the instructions and use the right amount for your child’s age. Never use a cough and cold remedy with children under six years old.

Make sure that your child continues to get plenty of fluids, even if he is off his food.

So keep breastfeeding. For older children, water should be offered frequently but try to avoid lots of sugary drinks and cordials.

If your child is under three months old, it’s always worth checking the symptoms with

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your doctor, as very small children can become very ill very quickly. If your child is floppy and unresponsive or very fussy, call the doctor or go straight to the hospital.

Trust your intuition If you’re worried that it’s not ‘just’ a cold but something more serious, do seek medical advice. Flu is a worry during the winter months and can be serious in young children.

Croup, a viral illness that causes a bark-like cough can be swiftly treated with steroids, and whooping cough, a bacterial infection, needs antibiotics (remember that your child must take the full course to avoid becoming antibiotic resistant). If you are concerned that your child may have meningitis, you must go to the hospital at once. Symptoms include a headache, sensitivity to light, a rash, seizures and listlessness but some indicators may be mistaken for a cold or flu. If in doubt, get to A&E – the staff will be only too happy to be able to set your mind at rest.

Stimulate the flow of lymph The lymphatic system transports the army of immune cells and acts as a drainage channel for wastes and toxins. Unlike the blood circulation, which is constantly activated by the heart, the lymph has no pump.

Lymph is dependent on physical movement for its flow so massaging your child will be very beneficial.

Treatments such as osteopathy and reflexology are also helpful to stimulate the flow of lymph and the blood circulation.

No messing with nutrition Make sure your child is getting enough of the key immune nutrients.

Deficiency of vitamin D, an important immune-related vitamin, is relatively common so make sure they eat oily fish, or take a supplement. Zinc is particularly vital for children and teenagers. The production and function of immune cells are dependent on adequate zinc levels and research found that this mineral helped reduce the duration of a cold.

Meat such as lamb and seafood are the richest sources. And of course cut down on sugar intake!

Boost the immune system BEFORE the cold arrives Homeopathy is an effective but gentle and sympathetic therapy which works by triggering the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

Homeopathic medicines are made mainly from plants and are highly diluted and non-toxic; it can be safely used in children of all ages and during pregnancy. Each child is different so learn what remedy will work for each of your children!

Cut down on computer use and increase time outdoors!

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Local heroes: a selection of London’s best local food, drink and beauty retailers We all know the benefits of shopping locally – better for local businesses and producers, better for your carbon footprint and stopping those big supermarkets getting even bigger. But what no one mentions is, it makes you feel really really good – especially if you take your reusable, (preferably hessian) bag.

It can be tough on the high street. This is a small selection of places, as a taster: investigate your local area!

The Hive Honey Shop

Hamish Johnston

Beekeeping has been in James Hamill’s family for the last three generations, producing (unpasteurised) honey from their own hives. His family has invented lotions, potions, ointments and cosmetics with their own harvests.

“A wealth of health and medicinal recipes, that were found to work extremely well, were passed on from one family member to the next. This tradition still carries on today.” We love their nappy rash ointment. Take the children to see the live glass-fronted bee hive!

If you are a cheese lover, this is the graal. For nearly 20 years Hamish Johnston have been supplying the most stunning collection of cheeses with wonderful names like Stinking Bishop, Stichelon or Bermondsey. Don’t know your English cheeses? It’s time you tried them. Hamish also stocks charcuterie, olives, local beers and we saw some amazing fresh girolles and chanterelles recently!

48 Northcote Road SW11 1PA : hamishjohnston.com

93 Northcote Road SW11 6PL : thehivehoneyshop.co.uk

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% S Fa pec mi ial lie dis s r co ea un de t rs to

Thai Spa boutique

London House

Shall I tell you how it feels to receive a chocolate massage? No? You can guess? This lovely Spa boutique is offering a 20% discount to the first 20 customers who bring in this piece from Families. Valid Monday to Thursday, 10-4pm, for a Body chocolate exfoliate treatment or a Chocolate massage, 90 mins. The promotion is valid until the end of December. Tell hubby to give you one for Christmas? Also available honey, seaweed, bamboo and candle massage hmmm … utterly divine.

Overlooking Battersea Square, Gordon Ramsay's London House is a most cosy and inviting place. If you like meat, this is the place to go, they serve truly succulent slow cooked lamb shoulder, beef Wellington or roast rack of pork for a perfect Sunday roast. The menu showcases modern European dishes inspired by seasonal ingredients, using market-led British produce.

Book now for their seven course Christmas lunch!

150 Arthur Road, Wimbledon Park SW19 8AQ

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London House, 7-9 Battersea Square, Battersea Village SW11 3RA : gordonramsayrestaurants.com

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

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December 2015

K ev ids e er y w at f ee ree ke nd

Raynsford

Sambrooks brewery

Buying fresh fruit and veg from a small shop is a real feel good factor.

Wicker basket under my arm, I choose to take the time to walk to my local greengrocer and come home with leeks, spinach and chard bursting out. It makes me want to cook fresh and eat more simply. Raynsford is the last remaining greengrocer after the other three in the area closed down.

The Craft beer movement is changing the way we think about beer. For the first time in my life I enjoyed a meal without wine*. Instead, each course was served with a carefully matching beer—a revelation. Small, independent brewers like Sambrooks create exceptionally tasting brews, which match real food to perfection. Late night shopping on 17th December.

153 Battersea High Street SW11 SW11 3JS ( 7228 6607

: sambrooksbrewery.co.uk * London House local Food Heroes menu

Titti your personal shopper

Dove the butchers

Whatever your budget, body shape, style, or personality, Italian born Silvia Titti can help you choose clothes that will suit you and make you feel good.

Go on a shopping trip with Silvia, hear her tips, what suits your body shape, colours to look for, Silvia will suggest clothes you may never have thought of. She will get you out of a clothes rut and invigorate your wardrobe. “You will be my number one priority, so you can be certain I will give you honest and unbiased advice.” Ultimately you’ll save time, money and energy and of course look fabulous!

Another firm favourite on Northcote Road, Doves supply fine quality Scotch and English meats. Lamb and beef from North Yorkshire, chickens from Hampshire, bacon from Essex and pork from Wales; now in season grouse, partridge, pigeon and pheasant. Buy British from Dove. Christmas turkeys are highly popular, order now.

71 Northcote Road SW11 6PJ : dovethebutchers.co.uk

Read her testimonials and see how it works on : tittilondonshopping.com ( 07843 284511.

The Remedie Rooms Health & Beauty day Spa

Gilpin’s gin Gilpin's Westmorland Extra Dry Gin is a five-times distilled London Dry Gin handcrafted in small batches. We love it here at Families, well technically not in the office! Infusing juniper, sage, and borage with three citrus peels, coriander and angelica plus spring water naturally filtered through ancient willow-peat – Gilpin's Gin has a sophisticated, unique and extra dry taste.

Do try it.

Offering exclusive French brands as well as her own signature treatments, this French-run beauty salon has been a firm favourite and award-winning Salon with locals for 10 years now. A Gift Voucher is the perfect present for loved ones this Christmas. You can visit their website or the salon to discover their special Christmas Gift Sets by Phytomer which are ever so popular every Christmas.

: gilpinsgin.com

6 Streatham High Road SW16 1DB : theremedierooms.com

December 2015

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Underneath the Christmas tree...

Just Williams Top 10 Christmas Presents Just Williams Toys is a much-loved local chain of family run toystores in Clapham South.

Established in 2003, Just Williams was a shortlisted Toy Shop of the year in 2014 and is shortlisted for the Progressive Pre-School Awards 2015 for the Best Independent Retailer.

Families asked owner Vicky Brown for her top recommendations for Christmas. She told us: "Every year there are the latest must-haves which are highly advertised but these are not necessarily the items that our customers come to us for. We aim to have a range of new products."

Trivia Tower Challenge - £24.99

Shopkins 'Scoops' Ice Cream Truck Playset £19.99 A must-have for all Shopkins fans, this set comes with two exclusive characters and two exclusive cooler bags. There are lots ways to play and display with the Shopkins 'Scoops' Ice Cream Truck.

I DO 3D Deluxe Studio - £39.99 Draw in 3D and create amazing multi-colour 3D masterpieces!

Draw, set and connect using the UV light included, you can even draw in the air. Design like a pro with the 3D templates and accessories included, or let your imagination run free. This kit makes up to 40 unique 3D projects and includes 8 coloured I DO 3D pens! Suitable for ages 6 years and above. Starter sets from £8.99

The fun, trivia based game will have you building your knowledge in no time! See how high you can stack the tower choosing colours based on questions at the roll of the coloured dice. Use the question discs to actually build the tower and keep it from toppling! Can be played in different ways to suit all abilities.

For the younger players, it's just as fun to play as a colourful and simple game of stacking and balance. Age 5+

Boppi Bike £29.99 Great for little ones to perfect their sense of balance; the Boppi Wooden Balance Bike is made from eco-friendly birch plywood and is lightweight with an adjustable seat. It is amazing how quickly children learn to ride a bike without stabilisers after using a pedal-less bike. Age 2-5 years.

Xeno - £79.99 / Xeno Puppies - £39.99 Xeno is a loveable, friendly baby monster who really reacts and plays with you! Xeno has a wide range of movements and emotions and animated eyes with over 40 different expressions. Interact with him by looking after him, playing a variety of minigames or via the dedicated app.

Comes in an assortment of colours. Age 5+

Osprey Retro Skateboard £36.99 Perfect for beginners looking for their first style skateboard. Great for commuting to school and riding in the park! These tough cruisers are made from hardwearing PU plastic with ABEC 5 chrome bearings and aluminium trucks.

FootBubbles - £9.99 With Leo Messi FootBubbles you can juggle bubbles with your feet just like Soccer Superstar Leo Messi. Just slip on the Messi socks, blow a bubble with the super solution and start the fun! Watch trick videos and practice your awesome skills. Ready to play? Age 6+

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December 2015

Mini Hornit - £14.99 A light and horn in one perfect for bikes and scooters. The horn comes with 20 different sounds.

TheMiniHornit comes with a remote trigger (to make it safe to use so the child does not need to take their hands off the handlebars) and it comes with high quality alkaline batteries. Featured on Dragons' Den in February and already won three toy awards (Rainbow, Right Start and Good Toy Guide).

Doc McStuffin Pet Vet Bag Playset - £22.99 Help Doc with her expert diagnoses of the animal ailments with the Pet Vet Bag! The brightly coloured bag opens and closes and features a paw hang tag on the side and includes tools such as a brush, a comb, a pair of scissors, an otoscope, a magnifying glass, a tongue depressor and even a light up Pet Tag to place on your pet toy as a collar or anklet. The perfect prescription for fun! Age 3+

More ideas - up to £20 Learn French: Original songs & rhymes for children This CD Club Petit Pierrot Learn French is the result of 20 years unique research and development especially adapting the immersion method in teaching French to young children. It includes a booklet with all the French lyrics, a full English translation and tips on how to practise at home. It can be enjoyed by children of all ages, even from birth.

Available from Amazon £20 Labels4Kids has introduced personalised gifts from Disney, Hasbro, Nickelodeon and Mattel.

Your child and their friends' names can be woven into a story such as Disney's Frozen or Spongebob.

Then there are personalised books, nametags, stationery, water books and more. Or how about a clock to help them get up on time for school! Allow three weeks for delivery as orders are custom made to your personal requirements. Start at www.labels4kids.com/fam2 and click the 'personalised gift range' to see more.

December 2015

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If you have a hirsuite Hoxton hunk in your life, Chris Martin's Guide to 'Beard and Moustache Management' does actually have some great tips on trimming, waxing and maintaining facial fuzz. Rrp £6.99. Just don't give it to grandma by mistake...

A perfect stocking filler for music lovers, a Chelsea Quavers' mug, beautifully illustrated limited edition mugs featuring Chutney (the Chelsea Quavers's musical dog!). Package & Posting £20.

Ferrari Play and Go My 1st Remote Control - Ferrari 458 Italia - £29.99 This cute Ferrari 458 Italia with a fun facial expression can simulate the real drive experience with the steering wheel shaped controller that intuitively controls the car left and right. Features original Ferrari sounds, working lights, a car horn, and anti-slide wheels. Age 2+

Just W illi at 8b B ams is open d a South lham Hill, C aily lapham SW12 9EA, ( 35 38 : just 6798 william stoys.c om

A great gift idea for the toddlers in your family.

Give a gift voucher (£14) for a fun cookery class with Cookease.

Let the little ones have fun rolling, mixing and chopping whilst the parents relax with a cup of tea. In a relaxed and homely environment by Wandsworth Common. : cookease.org.uk How cute will your baby look crawling around grandpa's ankles in these jolly Christmas pudding leggings?

They’re made from a soft cotton mix with a thick waistband for comfort, and you can add matching socks, a bandana bib and a hat. £10 from : bladeandrose.co.uk With all the ingredients to make scented, fizzing bath bombs, Wild Science's kit is good clean fun. It supports Key Stage Two science as well and there aren't many bath products that can make that claim. Bath Bomb Factory, rrp £12.99.

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December 2015

The first Christmas after a divorce

By Soila Sindiyo

For some divorced or separated parents, arranging and organizing equal time with the children has proved to be an experience straight out of hell.

If you’re having trouble with co-parenting over the holidays, here are some tips for you: • Instead of focusing on the time that the children will be away from you, focus instead on how you will be spending your time with them. Then during the time you don't have them, make sure you have plans and have some fun.

• Fight the urge to partake in the "Best gift, Best experience" competition or don’t let the guilt of separation be your decision maker when it comes to buying presents. Just do what you used to do, buy what you would have bought if it weren’t for the divorce.

• Choose not to fight in front of them. And I use the word "choose" because at the end of the day, that is what we do. Yes, this might be easier said than done but definitely, definitely not impossible. If you feel an argument brewing, catch yourself in time to make the decision not to rise to it.

• You're very probably not going to like this but I'll say it anyway - do help your child buy a gift for the other parent. Why? because you will be teaching your child about respect, grace and that it is ok to talk about and love his/her other parent no matter what has happened. The latter might sound obvious but you will be surprised how often children feel they cannot bring up the other parent in conversation in case they trigger something in you that will be upsetting. Remember your ex is not your child’s ex.

• If this is your first Christmas as a divorced or separated parent, then why not create your own family tradition that suits you and the children? Ask the children what they would like to do. You don't have to do things as you have always done them. New journey, new chapter and all that, so do what makes you all happy. For instance celebrate Christmas on 23rd or 27th if that's what it takes to have a wonderful time. Who cares about the dates anyway - certainly not the children!

So, seeing as you are now divorced or separated and that there are children involved, start how you mean to continue - peacefully.

Who wants to be fighting every year, at the same time and for the same reasons?

Soila is an accredited parenting practitioner, trained Family Mediator and Child Trauma Therapist. She is Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society.

She is the founder of : helpingchildrencope.co.uk and : thedivorcemagazine.co.uk

December 2015

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Where is Santa? Part 2 Compiled by Joanna Parry

You may have spotted our Where is Santa listing in our November issue, but if you have missed it you can still read it here www.familiessouthwest.co.uk We have included stores, cafes, parks etc This month we have included places further afield that would make a great day out.

A magical interactive Christmas experience The Old Sorting Office Art Centre 49 Station Rd Barnes SW13 0LF December 5th and 6th 2pm Guaranteed to bring out the festive spirit, this is a unique opportunity for hands on fun in an enchanted setting unlike any other grotto in London. The experience starts in a beautiful, snowy magic forest where you will be able to help mend the broken toy machine, put food out for the reindeers, use the magic snow, sample Mother Christmas’s special cookies and then finally sit down with Father Christmas in his home for a very special encounter personalised for each and every child.

You can also write Father Christmas a letter, have your face painted, decorate a gingerbread man, build your own teddy bear, do some Christmas crafts, take a Christmas selfie in our photo booth, and mix your own magic reindeer food while you are in the Christmas Café at the OSO Centre in Barnes.

Tickets are on a timed entry basis and will consist of no more than 20 people maximum to allow everyone to be part of the show. £8.50 per person, discounts for families and groups, some activities are not included in the price.. Tickets can be bought at the OSO café and via : ticketsource.co.uk

Whippersnappers’ Winter Wonderland

Osterley Park and House

The Park Keeper's Lodge, Dulwich Park, Dulwich Village SE21 7BQ, ( 8693 1682 or ( 7738 6633, : whippersnapperschristmas show.co.uk 5+6, 12+13, 25+16 and 19-23 December 2015 Visit Santa's Grotto in Dulwich Park and enjoy Whippersnappers Winter Wonderland. Guests will be served festive refreshments before entering Whippersnappers' Winter Wonderland. Young visitors can dress up to help elves in a toy workshop, visit Santa's twinkly classroom to decorate gingerbread tree decorations, meet Moth Starfrost the fairy, and enjoy a Christmas sing-along. Meet Santa himself in his grotto before visiting the arts and crafts/ toy shop to collect their finished tree decorations and a keepsake photograph. Children's tickets £18.50, adults £7.50 - book first.

TW7 4RB : nationaltrust.org.uk/osterleypark/things-to-see-and-do/events 5, 6, 12, 13 Dec Book your visit to Father Christmas' grotto and bring the whole family to explore the candlelit house. Join Osterley's Georgian residents the Child Family as they prepare for Christmas with their household with games, dancing and crafts. Admission fee plus £5 to see Father Christmas, includes gift.

Odds Farm Park HP10 0LX : oddsfarm.co.uk 21-22 Nov, daily from 28 Nov-24 Dec The Magic of Christmas. Entering a cosy Grotto via a sparkling Woodland Walkway, children will meet the Elves and of course Father Christmas himself, before exchanging a magical Golden Ticket for something very special in the Elves’ Teddy-Tastic Workshop.

Combined with plenty of Christmas Lambs to meet and Crazy Entertainers every weekend in December and daily during the Christmas Holidays until 4 Jan, there’s stacks of festive fun for the whole family. £7.95 per child

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Leeds Castle ME17 1PL : leeds-castle.co.uk 5 Dec-3 Jan The magic of Christmas descends upon the entire Leeds Castle Estate to celebrate the traditions of the festive season. Look out for the reindeer and birds of prey and visit the Christmas market where children can ride the carousel or ferris wheel with spectacular views of the castle. Father Christmas will be visiting every weekend and 19-23 Dec. The Christmas Elves are around to welcome children before they enter the grotto for a chat and to receive a special gift. £13 per child which includes a gift.

Syon Park and garden centre TW8 8JG : thegardencentregroup.co.uk/ breakfast-and-tea-with-fatherchristmas 14-24 Dec Have breakfast or tea with Father Christmas. Enjoy a delicious, freshlyprepared breakfast or tea and watch the excitement build until everyone joins in to help the elves welcome Father Christmas. Meet Father Christmas and choose your own present, enjoy delicious food and decorate a Christmas cookie. £9.99 per child.

Morden Hall Park 5,6,12,13 December 11am-5pm Enchanted Christmas Enjoy a festive day out in the heart of the park. In the stable yard, browse an array of local food and handmade craft stalls.

Create some festive crafts to take home to deck the halls. Visit Father Christmas in his magical grotto and receive a special gift. Additional costs apply. Booking essential for Father Christmas, £8 per child.

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

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December 2015

Christmas holiday activities Compiled by Joanna Parry We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed.

Please double check event with the organiser to avoid disappointment.

Fulham Palace Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA ( 7736 3233 : fulhampalace.org 12 December Young Archaeologists’ Club – Ancient Celebrations Christmas is coming! But what did ancient cultures do before there was Christmas? Find out during the final YAC session for this term. Ages 816, 10.30am-12.15pm, £15

Upbeat Music

Arts & Crafts

chocolate. Age 3-6 and 6-12, 9.30am-3pm, full and half day sessions.

Eddie Catz

Active Art The Nature Study Centre Wandsworth Common ( 07775 781332, artimatelondon@gmail.com : naturescope.co.uk 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23 December.

Active Art’s Eco Christmas Workshop Eco-Craft makes Christmas by up-cycling materials into toys, bags, shoes, skateboards and t-shirts. Make candles, decorations, bath bombs and lots of

Putney and Wimbledon •First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street SW15 1SF •42 Station Road SW19 2LP ( 3475 5268 : eddiecatz.com Throughout Christmas Holidays.

Christmas Workshops Includes sport, drama and creative workshops. Plus, don’t miss Santa’s Grotto at Eddie Catz Wimbledon and the Annual Family Christmas Party.

West London ( 8992 3767 : funwithfimoclay.co.uk 14, 18, 21 December and 4 January.

Activity Sessions Fun and creative sessions, fully supervised and non-messy. Includes Snoopy at Christmas, Miniature Mouse Nativity and Perching Penguins. Age 6+, bring a packed lunch, 10.15am-4.15pm, £50, email to book fimofun@tiscali.co.uk

Mini Engineers Wimbledon and Chelsea ( 07715 093 132 : mini-engineers.co.uk 6th Dec 1.30pm Wimbledon Christmas LEGO Ornament Making 6th Dec 2.30 in Wimbledon.

Santa’s Workshop: design and create your version of an elves’ workshop together with Christmas trees, presents and reindeers.

16th Dec 1.15pm in Wimbledon and 18th Dec 9:30 and 1.15 in Chelsea.

Christmas Express Train camp Build a train to the North Pole! Each child will design and build their own carriage to join our polar expedition.

Pop-up Santa's Workshop Omnibus Clapham 1 Clapham Common North Side, London SW4 0QW ( 7498 4699 : thecreativityroom.co.uk 19th December 10am-1pm or 2-5pm During this workshop the children will make Christmas cards, create wonderful wrapping paper designs, baubles, decorations and much more! Beverages and a snack is included in the price. For children 5-12 (younger children welcome accompanied by a grown-up). They will have a party at the end of the morning and afternoon session to try our party hats!

The Crafthouse Sew Me Pretty

December 2015

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East Sheen, SW14 8QR ( 8487 2863 : thecrafthouseuk.com

The Crafthouse 7-24 December. Christmas Holiday Programme Arts and craft sessions, sewing workshops and festive making. Age 3-11, times vary.

Sew Me Pretty Wimbledon Park Road SW19 6PE ( 07714 252660 me@sewpretty.me.uk : sewpretty.me.uk 22 December and 3 January.

Christmas Sewing Workshop Feeling creative? Want to become a fashion designer? Try something different at these creative workshops. 10am-1pm or 1.454.45pm £24. Or full day sessions 10am-4.45pm £48

Music & Drama Allsorts Drama Notting Hill Prep, 95 Lancaster Road W11 16 and 17 December More House School, 22–24 Pont Street SW1 21 and 22 December ( 89693249, info@allsortsdrama.com : allsortsdrama.com Christmas Drama Workshops 9.30am-3.30pm, ages 4–6 and 7-11, £80 with a 20% sibling discount.

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes Streatham, Battersea, Herne Hill, Sydenham ( 0800 107 7949, mail@funkymonkey.info : funkymonkey.info 21-22 December Electronic Keyboard Workshops Fun filled Jingle Bells music workshops are the perfect 'Christmas themed' taster day for 48 year old beginner musicians.

10am-2pm, £40 with a £35 sibling discount.

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Fun with Fimo

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Christmas holiday activities Studio Film School

The Music House for Children 306-310 Uxbridge Road W12 7LJ ( 8932 2652 : musichouseforchildren.co.uk / : bushhallmusic.co.uk 21 December The Robin Who Lost His Voice Come along a musical path and have an adventure to find a joyful voice hidden somewhere in the snow.

11am, £7/£6 21 December Instrumental Extravaganza Experience a range of instruments, hear them played by the experts and then get information and advice on instruments and lessons. From 2pm, £5 (credited towards lessons), age 3-11 22 December How the Grinch Stole Christmas Workshop Full of Christmas festivities with singing and theatrics, this musical theatre workshop is high energy, great fun and extremely creative. A highlight of the day’s events will be presented at 3pm.

9.45am, £40, age 5-11

Perform Drama • Baden Powell House, 65-67 Queens Gate, Kensington SW7 5JS • Kensington United Reformed Church, Allen Street W8 6BL • Cineworld Fulham Road, 142 Fulham Road, Chelsea SW10 9QR • St Francis Xavier College, 10 Malwood Road, Clapham South SW12 8EN • Kew Community Centre, St Luke's

in the Avenue TW9 2AJ ( 0845 400 4000, enquiries@perform.org.uk : perform.org.uk 14-15, 21-22 December Peter Pan Workshop Perform Drama School is back this Christmas with another exciting 2day holiday experience for 4-7 year olds. With a sprinkle of fairy dust, Perform’s team of skilled actors, musicians and dancers will work their magic to ensure your child enjoys every minute. 5 hour workshops, times and dates vary depending on venue, £153

Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB ( 8543 4888 : polkatheatre.com 23 December Winter Wonderland Experience Skate, slide, stomp and swirl into a snowy winter wonderland in this magical, interactive movement and music workshop. 10-11am, 11.30am12.30pm, 1-2pm, age 3-5, £18 per child.

29 December Play in a Day: Beasts and Beauties A drama workshop inspired by the characters and themes in this year’s Polka show, Beauty and the Beast.

Children will work together to create their own version of the classic story to share with family and friends at the end of the day. 10.30am- 3.30pm, age 6-9, £30

Stagecoach Battersea Honeywell School, SW11 6EF / Northcote Lodge School, SW11 6EL ( 07956 288928 : stagecoach.co.uk/Battersea 21-22 December Christmas Workshop 2-day acting, dancing and singing workshop. Put on a show while Santa and his elves make their final preparations for Christmas. Little Performers age 4-

Stagecoach Battersea 6, 9.20am-12.30pm, £45 per child for two mornings; older children aged 7-16, 9.30am-4.30pm, £75 for two days.

Funky Monkey

Upbeat Music Parsons Green SW6 ( 07816 901396, upbeatmusic@btinternet.com : upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk 21-22 December Write (and record) a Song For Christmas Sessions include dancing and singing, electric guitars and drums, and a workshop performance. MP3s will be emailed out in time for you to send to friends and family for Christmas presents. Age 4-14, 10-4pm

Song Academy Holy Trinity Church, Brook Green W6 7BL Upper Mission Hall, Parsons Green

SW6 4UH ( 07710 023743, contact@songacademy.co.uk : songacademy.co.uk 17-18 and 21-22 December.

Christmas Holiday Workshops Dynamic programmes for young songwriters to collaborate on writing a group song. The workshops develop creative lyric writing skills and composition of instrumental parts and solos. Each workshop is over two afternoons with a performance at the end. Age 8-11 and 12-16, depending on venue, £75/£70 siblings

Chelsea Quavers music workshops Hall of Remembrance, Flood Street, Chelsea SW3 5SY ( 07899 678 655 : chelseaquavers.com 14th-18th Dec (1-5 days to suit you) This Christmas the children will create their own story line, characters & scenes to produce their own short film, together with sound-effects and their own musical composition and performance. Lots of singing, instrumental performance with the Tutors, percussion performance including drum kit,

Under the parachute, at The Little Gym

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December 2015

Christmas holiday activities glockenspiel, hand bells, composition, harmonisation, aural development and transcription, musical games & activities, music puzzles, Christmas crafts and much more!

Kiddisports (multi-sport 18m to 5 years) and Ligasoccer (football Under 8’s) sessions run throughout the holidays. Or arrange a bespoke session (1 to 3 hours) for your player and their friends: pick your sport and they’ll provide the coach, equipment and place.

Sport

The Little Gym Wandsworth & Fulham

Venues across SW London ( 7957 8220 londondevelopment@chelseafc.com / soccerschools@chelseafc.com : chelseafc.com/foundation Throughout Christmas Holidays.

London Soccer School For boys and girls aged 3-13. Times vary according to course, from £30

Fulham FC Foundation Venues in Fulham ( 0870 442 5432, holidaycourses@fulhamfc.com : fulhamfc.com Throughout Christmas Holidays.

Holiday Courses Holiday courses for all abilities in a fun and challenging environment. 3-5yrs, 911am, 6-14 yrs, 9am-3pm, from £15 per day

Kiddikicks Across South West London ( 7937 7965, sarah@kiddikicks.co.uk : kiddikicks.couk Throughout Christmas Holidays.

Holiday Sessions Kiddikicks (football 18m to 5 years)

Compass House, Riverside West, SW18 1DB ( 8874 6567, wandsworth_fulham@thelittlegym.eu : thelittlegym.co.uk Throughout Christmas Holidays.

Christmas Camps Their ever popular 3 hour camps (OFSTED approved) for over 3s build new skills and develop confidence while the kids have loads of fun. Call for timings.

SwimWay East Sheen, Putney, Streatham and Wimbledon ( 8871 3972, info@swimway.co.uk : swimway.co.uk Throughout Christmas Holidays.

Swimming Courses Intensive courses to improve your child’s swimming technique, on a private or semi-private basis. Courses run for half an hour each day, book early to avoid disappointment. 3-9yrs, dates and times dependent on venue.

Youngstars MultiSports and Activity Camp

Studio Film School ( 7101 9329 : studiofilmschool.co.uk Take the stress away from a Christmas-time birthday and give your little star the red carpet treatment! Studio Film School specialise in creating memorable and unique children’s party experiences for ages 4-16. Their party team will deliver 1-3 hours of filmmaking based around your child’s ideas. After the party, each child receives their own DVD copy of the edited film.

Alternatively, why not treat someone special this Christmas with a Studio Film School gift voucher?

December 2015

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Allsorts Drama

Balham, Clapham, Dulwich, Parsons Green, Putney and Wimbledon ( 07920 426499, info@youngstars.co.uk : young-stars.co.uk 21-24 and 28-31 December Christmas Holiday Camps Plenty of fun, games and excitement whilst being introduced to all aspects of sports in an all inclusive and noncompetitive environment. 3-7 years, times and prices vary.

Day Camps Kaleidoscope Clubs and Courses South Kensington ( 3651 7870, info@kalscope.co.uk : kalscope.co.uk 14-23 December Christmas Holiday Camps Choose from arts and crafts, music, drama, dance, cooking and outdoor

exploration in these holiday camps.

8.30-4.30pm, £60 per day, age 4-12

Et Patati Patata! ( 07966893674 : etpatatipatata.com caroline@etpatatipatata.com December 14 and 15 Get ready for two intensive, unique and fun French Xmas Day camps Recently shortlisted Brilliant Business Awards 2015 Fulham, Et Patati Patata, Fun French lessons and Saturday French school Flam is running a Xmas holiday course in Fulham with costumes, improvisation, arts and crafts, French karaoke, French cooking, french dancing, french drama.

100% French Fun! A French immersion programme led by an certified native French Teacher.

Also: Fun french lessons Fulham, Balham, Southfields and saturday French School all levels. Ideal for 312 years olds

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Chelsea FC Soccer School

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Christmas holiday activities

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Funky Moves, Clapham

First Hand Experiences Fulham : firsthandexperiences.co.uk Become a character in your very own adventure on our ‘Tales from the Palace’ Christmas camp! A mysterious magic has cast your favourite characters from well known tales and trapped them within Fulham Palace. Children will be set a task to hunt, scavenge, forage and master a skill or craft from a lost world in order to set them free.

Fulham Palace Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA ( 7736 3233 : fulhampalace.org 6 December National Tree Dressing Day Come along to this family drop-in and create beautiful decorations from natural materials to hang on the branches of the trees in the Fulham Palace grounds.

No booking necessary, 10am-2pm

Bank of England Museum

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children aged 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult. 10.30am12.30pm and 2-4pm 6 January. Farewell to Christmas Join in the Geffrye's own traditional burning of the holly and the ivy, with carol singing, stories about Epiphany and a taste of mulled wine and Twelfth Night cake. Please note that this event takes place in the garden, so wrap up warm! 3.30-5pm

The Horniman Museum 100 London Road SE23 3PQ ( 8699 8924 : horniman.ac.uk 5 and 6 December Horniman Christmas Fair Join in festive activities, buy gifts in the arts and crafts markets, pick up your seasonal produce at the Farmers Market (Saturday), take part in family art fun, and enjoy mince pies, mulled wine and concerts (Sunday) on the Bandstand. 10.30am–5pm

Free Activties Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH ( 7601 4878 : bankofengland.co.uk/museum 29-31 December Sparkling Silver, Glittering Gold Discover the Museum's collection of glittering silver objects and the allure of the gold on display, and then get creative and decorate a gold bar money box to take home.

There's a chocolate gold coin for every child. 10am-4pm

Et Patati Patata

The Horniman Museum

Geffrye Museum 136 Kingsland Road E2 8EA ( 7739 9893 : geffrye-museum.org.uk 12 December Christmas workshop: Greenery Garlands Create gorgeous greenery-inspired garlands to hang in your home. Please note that

the lucky numbers, coins and love hearts that featured in charms and tokens given as presents during the First World War.

Museum of London Docklands No.1 Warehouse, West India Dock Road E14 4AL ( 7001 9844 : museumoflondon.co.uk/ docklands 5-23 December Christmas Holiday Fun Includes Victorian Santa’s Grotto, Fun at the Frost Fairs, A Christmas Carol, Light Up the Docks, and much more.

Times and dates vary.

The National Gallery Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN : nationalgallery.org.uk 6 December Family Walk and Talk - Winter Wonderland Free family walk and talk to bring paintings alive. For all ages, 12.30-1.30pm. 12.30-1.30pm

Imperial War Museum

Little House of Science

Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ : iwm.org.uk 20-31 December A Wartime Christmas Get crafty and help decorate the museum's Christmas wreath, and learn about how people celebrated Christmas on the Home Front. Have a go at making your own charm inspired by

( 0800 092 1062. info@littlehouseofscience.com : littlehouseofscience.com 14, 15, 16 December. Come and join for HO-HO-HO Christmas Scientific Grotto!

HO-HO-HO Christmas scientific Grotto 14 Dec 10am-12, 4-9 years, at Eddie Catz Putney, SW15.

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

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December 2015

The Best Christmas shows A Christmas Carol

The Nutcracker

Arts Theatre WC2H 7JB : artstheatrewestend.co.uk 7 December – 3 January You are cordially invited to the parlour of Mr Ebeneezer Scrooge for a rousing rendition of this timeless classic served over a twocourse Christmas feast. A heartwarming, foot-stomping and thoroughly beautiful immersive production. 4.30pm and 7.30pm, £49.50, includes two-course meal.

The London Coliseum St. Martin's Lane, Charing Cross, WC2N 4ES : eno.org 16 December – 10 January On a sparkling Christmas Eve in a frost-dusted Edwardian London, Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker doll discover a magical world, where she battles with the Mouse King and meets a handsome stranger. This magical Christmas ballet for all the family is an unforgettable Christmas treat. From £14

Town Hall Cherubs Battersea Arts Centre Lavender Hill SW11 5TN : bac.org.uk 2 December – 3 January A magical adventure for children aged 2-5. Fallen from his place in the sky, a sleepy cherub needs your help to find his way home....9.30am, 11am, 1.30pm and 3pm, £10-£14

Raymond Briggs' Father Christmas

Penguin! Elephant! Chelsea Theatre

Canada Water Culture Space Canada Water Library, 21 Surrey Quays Road, Rotherhithe SE16 7AR : thealbany.org.uk/event_ detail/1616/Canada-Water 4-19 December An original musical theatre production based on Quentin Blake’s classic picture book, the children’s cast from Theatre Peckham bring the magical world of the Clown to life. From £7 children, £9 adults

Penguin! Elephant!

The Chelsea Theatre 7 World's End Place, Kings Road SW10 0DR : chelseatheatre.org.uk 1-24 December Goblin’s new musical adventure for children aged 3+. Penguin is a little bit selfish. Penguin loves fish fingers, but never shares them. Everything is black and white and that’s just the way Penguin likes it. Until one day Elephant turns up. Times vary, £9

The Twelve Days of Christmas Chickenshed Theatre Chase Side, Southgate N14 4PE : chickenshed.org.uk To 9 January This year's magical and thrilling festive adventure. Brilliantly reinventing the traditional and wellloved song, The Twelve Days of Christmas will be a rollicking Christmas adventure with lots of laughs along the way. Age 5+, £11£20 Christmas Tales 5-23 December A fun and festive celebration that

December 2015

takes the very best of the vibrant Tales from the Shed shows. Age 06, £8, free to babies under 1 year

Aladdin Colour House Theatre Watermill Way SW19 2RD : colourhousetheatre.co.uk Every Saturday and Sunday in December Poor Aladdin is tricked by his evil uncle to enter a dangerous cave and look for a magic lamp. Soon he is trapped inside. Will Aladdin find what he needs to escape, find love and make his fortune? £12/£10

Aladdin Duke of York’s Theatre St Martin's Lane WC2N 4BG : atgtickets.com 18 December - 17 January It’s a lovely day and Peppa is playing outside with her friends. Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have got a surprise for her and her younger brother George but no matter how hard they try, they cannot guess what it is. Age 3+ www.peppapiglive.com

Goodnight Mister Tom 11 December - 20 February The Olivier award-winning Chichester Festival Theatre production of this much-loved children's book returns to the West End. From £15.

Stick Man Leicester Square Theatre 6 Leicester Place WC2H 7BX : leicestersquaretheatre.com

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To 3 January Scamp Theatre’s delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s hugely popular children’s book Stick Man is back in the West End. Touching, funny and utterly original this award-winning production features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. Age 3+

The Little Match Girl The Lilian Bayliss Studio Roseberry Avenue EC1R 4TN : sadlerswells.com 12 December – 3 January Following a sell-out season last year, celebrated director and choreographer Arthur Pita returns to the Lilian Baylis Studio this Christmas with his magical dance theatre show. A true wonder for dance fans young and old. Age 5+, from £12

The Giraffe and The Pelly and Me The Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross Street N1 2DN : littleangeltheatre.com To 31 January Adapted from the acclaimed book

by Roald Dahl, this is the story about a young boy who befriends a Giraffe, a Pelican and a Monkey. Join them on their unexpected adventures when they create the Ladderless Window Cleaning Company. Age 4-11, £12/£14

The Tiger Who Came to Tea The Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue W1D 7ES : nimaxtheatres.com/lyric-theatre To 10 January Hold on to your biscuit tin, The Tiger Who Came to Tea is roaring back into the West End for a smashing Christmas season. Join Sophie and the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos.

A Christmas Carol Noël Coward Theatre St Martin’s Lane WC2N 4AU : achristmascaroltheplay.com To 2 January Academy Award-winning actor Jim Broadbent makes his long-awaited return to the stage to play Scrooge in a new version of A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens' classic story of greed, grief, ghoulish ghosts and eleventh-hour redemption. From £10, recommended age 10+

Dr Seuss's The Lorax The Old Vic Theatre The Cut, Waterloo SE1 8NB : oldvictheatre.com From 3 December Inspired by Dr. Seuss's classic tale, The Lorax tells of a moustachioed and cantankerous critter on a mission to protect the earth from the greedy, tree-chopping, Thneedknitting businessman known only as The Once-ler. From £12, with 50% off some tickets for ages 14 and under

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Cont p. 28

Clown

Lyric Hammersmith Lyric Square, Kings Street W6 0QL : lyric.co.uk To 24 December The Lyric's beloved production for young children returns for its fourth year. £10

from p. 27

The Best Christmas shows The Nutcracker

Aladdin

Omnibus Clapham 1 Clapham Common Northside SW4 0QW : omnibus-clapham.org To 13 December When Clara is given a wooden nutcracker in the shape of a handsome Prince, little does she know that she and her brother Fritz are about to be drawn into a great adventure. After the success of award-winning Arabian Nights, Story Pocket Theatre returns with this colourful and magical Christmas story.

Age 4+, 11am and 2pm, £10/£8

Putney Arts Theatre Ravenna Road SW15 6AW : ticketsource.co.uk/ putneyartstheatre 16-19 December Once again Putney Light Operatic Society will be performing its much anticipated and hugely popular annual family pantomime.

The Snowman The Peacock Theatre Portugal Street WC2A 2HT : sadlerswells.com/peacocktheatre To 3 January The stage show based upon the classic children's book by Raymond Briggs and the subsequent film has become a much-loved festive tradition at the Peacock Theatre. A wonderful mix of storytelling, spectacle and magic. £15-£35

Beauty & The Beast The Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB : polkatheatre.com From 20 November Follow Belle’s courageous journey to the Beast’s mysterious castle where she must overcome her fears and discover the true meaning of beauty. The enchanting children’s classic comes to life in an exhilarating show brimming with adventure, music, magic and mystery. Age 6-12, from £11.50

The Little Bird Who Stayed For Winter The Roundhouse Chalk Farm Road NW1 8EH : roundhouse.org.uk 14 December – 4 January An uplifting and enchanting story about a little bird that loves the songs of a Parisian street artist so much that when all the other birds fly away for the winter she stays behind. Age 3+, £10/£8 Beauty & The Beast at The Polka Theatre

The Nutcracker on Ice The Royal Albert Hall Kensington Gore SW7 2AP : royalalberthall.com 28 December – 2 January International ice dance sensation The Imperial Ice Stars return for a third season with their dazzling production of The Nutcracker on Ice as part of their 10th anniversary world tour.

Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty — New Adventures Sadler's Wells Rosebery Avenue EC1R : sadlerswells.com From 1 December. Since its premiere in 2012 Matthew

Slava's Snow Show Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8PX : southbankcentre.co.uk 16 December – 3 January Imagine a joyous dream-like world, unlike anything you have seen before. A world in which a cobweb envelops the audience and one tiny piece of paper begins a heartstopping blizzard of snow...

From £20

What’s On

St James Theatre 12 Palace Street SW1E 5JA : stjamestheatre.co.uk Throughout December The majestically mysterious, fabulously wealthy Phileas Fogg wagers his life’s fortune that he can circumnavigate the globe in just eighty days. Join Fogg and his loyal valet Passepartout as they voyage from the misty alleys of Victorian London to the exotic subcontinent and the wild west in a race against the clock. 2.30pm, 7.30pm, from £15

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Online

Around The World in 80 Days

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Bourne’s dazzling production of Sleeping Beauty has won the hearts of audiences around the world. Its run at Sadler’s Wells sold out before its first performance and it returns this year by popular demand. £32£65

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The best family-friendly events We have more events and things to do for children than anyone else!

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FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

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December 2015

Families ‘top five’ this month Christmas is coming! Here are our top 5 pantomimes across the capital to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Cinderella Lyric Hammersmith Lyric Square, Kings Street W6 0QL : lyric.co.uk 21 November – 3 January Traditional panto is back for another sensational year with plenty of festive fun in true Lyric style. Grab your glittery Converse and put the pumpkin into top gear as Cinderella heads to the biggest party of the season to meet a very charming Prince.

The show will be full of colourful characters, live music, lots of laughs and of course two very ugly sisters. Age 6+,

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Peter Pan

Cinderella Richmond Theatre Little Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ : atgtickets.com 4 December – 10 January Richmond throws a strong contender into the ring for 2015's raft of pantomimes. The old reliable dame Matthew Kelly will star as the Fairy Godmother alongside retro star Hayley Mills. CBeebies presenter Chris Jarvis also stars as Buttons.

New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG : atgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledon-theatre 5 December – 10 January Join Peter Pan and Wendy as they take on Captain Hook in the ultimate family adventure. This pantomime guarantees magical sets and costumes, amazing special effects and spectacular song and dance numbers. He’s behind you! From £10

Photo by St eve

Ullathorne

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Dick Whittington The Wizard of Oz

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Shaw Theatre 100-110 Euston Road NW1 2AJ : shaw-theatre.com 12-30 December Follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Shaw Theatre for an all-new Christmas pantomime version of The Wizard of Oz, starring Bucks Fizz legend Cheryl Baker as Glinda the Good Witch.

December 2015

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Wilton’s Music Hall 1 Graces Alley E1 8JB : wiltons.org.uk 1-31 December This very East End panto sees Whittington come to Wilton's as veteran comedian Roy Hudd brings Dick and his cat to the beautifully restored Wilton's Music Hall. Inspired by the glorious grand hall to write a sitespecific version, Hudd also stars as the panto Dame set on helping our young hero make his fortune.

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What’s On

DIARY DATES See more events in our online

What’s On calendar

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Hyde Park W2 2UH : hydeparkwinterwonderland.com To 3 January A spectacular festive destination for all the family. Attractions include thrilling rides, Christmas market, Santa Land, Ice Skating rink, Magical Ice Kingdom, Zippos Circus, Cirque Beserk and giant wheel. Fast track entry tickets available. 10am-10pm

Geffrye Museum 136 Kingsland Road, Hoxton E2 8EA : geffrye-museum.org.uk To 3 January 400 Years of Seasonal Traditions in English Homes The Museum’s period living rooms are transformed with authentic festive decorations, lighting, music and greenery, bringing to life the rich and vibrant traditions of Christmas past. Free entry FREE 12 December Workshop: Greenery Garlands Create gorgeous greenery inspired garlands to hang in your home. Age 2-16, 10.30am-12.30pm and 2-4pm, FREE 17 December Crafty Fox Night Market Discover design-led, handmade products sold directly by the makers at this festive evening including creative workshops, DJs, a cafe and bar. 4-9pm, FREE 6 January Farewell to Christmas Wrap up warm and join them in the gardens for the Geffrye’s own tradition of burning the holly and the ivy, with carol singing, stories about Epiphany and mulled wine and Twelfth Night cake. 3.30-5pm, FREE

Firepower, The Royal Artillery Museum

Fun, fun and more fun is the order of the day when you visit the exciting Camo Zone.

See how far you can get on the Bungee Run before testing your aiming skills on the soft Firing Range. Or spend a night at the museum in a sleepover, with a packed activity program including military drilling, crafts, tours and a camp fire singalong.

Why not book your next children’s birthday party at the museum, with cannon firing, camouflage face painting and Military Drilling, which will put the kids through their paces and train them to be a team.

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LOVES!

Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, Hertfordshire WD25 7LR : wbstudiotour.co.uk To 31 January Discover how special effects experts make snow that never melts, how set dressers transform locations for Christmas scenes, and how flames are created without fire, as Warner Bros. Studio Tour London opens the doors on its most magical makeover yet.

: uk.westfield.com/london To 3 January The approach of winter heralds the return of London’s coolest indoor ice rink. Located in the magnificent Atrium event space at Westfield, the 500 square-metre ice rink boasts an impressive festive backdrop, sumptuous lighting and live music, making late night skating a special experience for friends and family.

Check out their exciting themed sessions!

Skate at Somerset House with Fortnum & Mason

Thunderbird

Admission prices £5.30/£2.50, children under 5 free, includes 50% off your next visit for a full year. Activity tickets for the Bungee Run and Firing Range from £1.50

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Warner Bros Studio Tour London – Hogwarts in the Snow

Skate at Westfield London

Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST 020 8855 7755 : firepower.org.uk Discover the fascinating story of artillery and the role of the Gunners in our nation’s history at this secret gem of a museum. Explore the greatest collection of artillery in the UK, set in the historic Woolwich Arsenal - this museum is a truly great day out with something for all the family.

In the museum’s permanent collections discover the intriguing history of artillery - artillery that has changed the nature of battle and affected the lives of many people. Then follow the story of the Gunners from catapult to unmanned drone and from the Battle of Crécy to the modern peacekeeping missions.

Fulham Palace family Christmas

Southbank Winter Festival Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road SE1 8XX : southbankcentre.co.uk Throughout December Winter at Southbank Centre with NatWest returns, transforming the south bank into a seasonal wonderland. Browse festive markets stuffed with delicious treats and unusual gifts. Enjoy live music or see a performance, plus free activities and themed weekends.

FREE

Dulwich Picture Gallery SE21 7AD : dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk First and last Sunday in December Family Sundays Enjoy being creative together in these drop-in Artplay sessions, making everything from bunting to block prints. 2.10pm and 3.10pm, no booking necessary, free for families with a Gallery ticket or £3 per child

Landmark Arts Centre Ferry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN : landmarkartscentre.org

Somerset House WC2R 1LA : somersethouse.org.uk/skate To 10 January With stylish skating, gourmet dining, the best in seasonal shopping and acclaimed DJs, Skate at Somerset House is the ultimate festive destination. For young children taking their first steps on the ice there’s the Polar Cub Club, designed exclusively for under-8s.

From £7.50 To 31 January. Tintin: Hergé’s Masterpiece A family-friendly free exhibition drawing on the archives of the Hergé Museum in Brussels, this new exhibition invites you into the wonderfully eccentric world of Tintin and his creator. FREE

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Landmark Arts Centre

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December 2015

© Jonathon Vines

We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed. Please double check event with the organiser to avoid disappointment.

What’s On

Classical Babies St James The Less Church, Moreton Street SW1V 2PS : classicalbabies.com 7 December Classical Babies brings classical music for toddlers and their parents in a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Surrounded by music, children can play on baby mats, listen, fall asleep, run around....and parents can enjoy a cup of coffee and some cake.

11am, £8/£10

Fulham Palace SW6 6EA fulhampalace.org 7 and 14 December The Palace Explorers For children aged 2-4, £3 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack. Booking essential, 10.3011.30am 6, 12, 13 December Father Christmas Find Father Christmas in the Tudor Great Hall

by a roaring fire ready to hear all of your Christmas wishes. With the Christmas tree, elves’ gift wrapping station, Father Christmas’s desk and the naughty and nice list all on display, this is a very special and atmospheric experience.10am-5pm, £11, booking essential.

13 December Christmas Pantomime – Dick Whittington Find out if the streets of London really are paved with gold in this classic tale adapted for a young audience. A family pantomime with colourful sets and lots of audience participation. 12pm and 2pm, £10 per person/ £38 for four family members, booking essential.

13 December Family Christmas Carol Concert A popular child friendly carol concert for the whole family. Held in the Victorian Chapel and featuring the Fulham Children’s Choir. 4pm-5pm, £12/£7.

Do-re-mi Babies Concerts Barnes, Chelsea, Fulham, Wandsworth : doremibabies.co.uk 8, 10, 16 December Inspirational and fun classical

See Where is Santa page 22 an d on Familiesso uthwest.co .uk

Battersea park zoo concerts. With different musicians, instruments and programmes there is plenty to inspire your little ones.

Babies and toddlers are welcome to crawl, dance, sing, cry, nappy change and more, so you can relax and enjoy some wonderful music. £10 per adult, children free, tickets online or on the door. Dates vary depending on venue.

Theatre in Notting Hill will be transformed into a winter wonderland. This year’s line up includes Frozen, Elf, Love Actually and Home Alone, and if that’s not enough there will be additional cheer with hot chocolates, brownies, mulled wine and of course, popcorn. Screenings at 1pm, 5pm and 8.30pm, from £10

20th Century Theatre

BFI

91 Westbourne Grove W11 2QA : popupscreens.co.uk 11-23 December Cinema in the Snow Are you dreaming of a White Christmas?

Once again the 20th Century

Southbank SE1 : bfi.org.uk 12 December It’s A Disney Christmas: Seasonal Shorts Watch some of the best Disney shorts from the 1930s to the present day. 12.50pm 13 December Make Your Own Christmas ECard Learn all about the magic of stop-motion animation in this fun and immersive workshop for parents and their children. All materials supplied, but please bring a memory device in

Christmas Fairs Christmas Market at Kew

Green & Ethical Christmas Fayre

Italian Christmas Bazaar

Kew Gardens, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB : kew.org/christmas To 2 January A wonderful boutique Christmas market with a Victorian carousel and vintage rides, foodie treats and live festive music. Don’t miss the illuminations too.

Holy Trinity Church, Clapham Common SW4 0QZ : greenethicalchristmas.com 5 December A traditional Christmas Fayre with stalls selling ethically sourced and 'green' gifts and food. Visit Father Christmas in his grotto and take a break for a light lunch or a snack in the Green Cafe. Adults £2, children free, includes access to the City Farm Nativity with animal petting and festive dressing up.

11am-4pm.

Chelsea Old Town Hall, King’s Road, SW3 7 and 8 December Jewellery, home decor, food, cashmere, leather accessories etc In aid of Il Circolo’s projects and charitable fund 10.30am-8pm

Festive Shopping Days at Chelsea Physic Garden Chelsea Physic Garden, 6 Royal Hospital Road SW3 4HS : chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 1-4 and 6-11 December As winter envelopes the Garden the warming festive scent of mulled wine welcomes you to this year’s Christmas Fair, with tempting gifts, lavish treats and a selection of artisan food and drink. Join in with crafty Christmas activities for families and create seasonal decorations to take home. Free entry. FREE

December 2015

The Horniman Museum 100 London Road SE23 3PQ : .horniman.ac.uk 5 and 6 December.

Horniman Christmas Fair Join in festive activities, buy gifts in the arts and crafts markets, pick up your seasonal produce at the Farmers Market (Saturday), take part in family art fun, and enjoy mince pies, mulled wine and concerts (Sunday) on the Bandstand.

10.30am–5pm.

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Wimbledon Market The Piazza, Wimbledon Every weekend until 22nd December Unique Christmas gifts, mulled wine, handmade decorations, cakes, stocking fillers etc

St Michael's CE School Christmas Fair Granville Road, Southfields SW18 11th December A great chance to do some Christmas shopping, grab some food and entertain the children.

There is also a chance to see a special visitor and his reindeer too! 3:30-5pm Free admittance

345 is proud to be entering its 32nd year as an independent nursery school where 'children become independent, inquisitive and motivated in a rich and vibrant environment' (Ofsted).

An exceptionally warm welcome and a very large outdoor space awaits every child. We also have Music, Sport and Spanish plus Playball, Relax Kids and Ballet in afternoon clubs.

Please do visit us to capture some of the children's excitement in learning.

Contact: Annabel Dixon 345nurseryschoolwandsworth@gmail.com www.345 nurseryschool.co.uk 020 8870 8441 Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity Road, London SW18 3NH

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6 December The Snowman in Concert An enchanting family concert featuring an adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ much-loved story The Snowman, plus festive Christmas music. 2pm, age 3+, £5 children, £8 adults, £23 family ticket.

There's no room to list more here, but use our unique local searchable What’s On calendar on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

order to save your finished film.

Parent with one child £20, siblings £8 each, 9.30am-1pm 19 and 20 December Santa Claus: The Movie It’s not easy being Santa Claus, but things get even more difficult when one of his elves becomes disgruntled and heads to New York, where he starts making toys for an unscrupulous businessman with plans that threaten Christmas as we know it.

Enjoy this sparkling digital restoration for the film’s 30th anniversary. 1.30pm

Orleans House Gallery - Dad Day Whittaker Ellis Suite at Old Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond TW9 1TP : richmond.gov.uk/arts 12 December A programme of creative activities especially for Dads and their children from babies to 10 years.

Join them for practical artist-led workshops exploring different themes and techniques including animation, print-making, construction and painting. 10am12pm, £6 for first child, £3 for siblings over 6 months

The Music House for Children 306-310 Uxbridge Road W12 7LJ : .musichouseforchildren.co.uk 15 December Little Birdsong Orchestra A classical concert for babies and their families. Enchant your babies with a fabulous, Christmassy music programme including excerpts from classical greats. Complimentary mince pies, prosecco and coffees.

10am, £15 adult, £25 two adults, £10 grandparents

We Knit London – Free Knitting Classes Yardsman, 5-96 Lower Marsh, Waterloo SE1 7AB

15 December : wearewaterloo.co.uk A series of free Knitting Classes, 68pm at Yardsman on Lower Marsh.

Knitters can expect music, nibbles and cocktails as well as some introductory knitting advice. Book your place now!

DRAMA See more events in our online

What’s On calendar

Cadogan Hall 5 Sloane Terrace SW1X 9DQ :cadoganhall.com(7730 4500 4-5 December Mr Popper’s This is a Penguins With fantastic sh ow! songs, puppets and a family of performing penguins, this delightful musical adaptation of Richard and Florence Atwater’s popular book is brought to you by the producers of The Tiger Who Came to Tea and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. 55 Minutes of family fun for ages 3 plus

Vaudeville Theatre 404 Strand WC2R 0NH Box Office (0330 333 4814 : nimaxtheatres.com 15 December – 3 January The Gruffalo Based on the famous book, the show has been touring for 15 years, performing in 14 countries and 5 continents. It has played twice at Sydney Opera House, twice on Broadway, once at the National Theatre and has done seven West End seasons. A perfect combination of songs, laughter, physical theatre and just the right amount of scary fun!

The Ambassadors Theatre West Street WC2H 9ND : theambassadorstheatre.co.uk Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays throughout December

Wuthering Heights Emily Brontë’s classic tale of love, loss and revenge is stunningly re-imagined by by the National Youth Theatre. A beloved classic adapted for today’s audiences, it’s not to be missed!

Times and dates vary as this production is in rep.

3-6 December The Wolves of Willoughby Chase A thrilling adventure set in an alternative history of England, telling the story of two brave and determined girls as they fight against ferocious wolves, snowy wastelands and their very evil guardian.

The Barbican Theatre

The Royal Albert Hall

Barbican Centre, Silk Street EC2Y 8DS : barbican.org.uk 17-30 December Told by an Idiot - Get Happy Physical comedy, live music, acrobatics, silly dancing and audience interaction all feature in this Christmas show for kids and adults of all ages. Age 4+, 10.30, 1pm, 3.30pm, £12

Kensington Gore SW7 2AP : royalalberthall.com 12 December Disney in Concert: Alice in Wonderland Experience Tim Burton’s Academy Award-winning fantasy film on the big screen in the glorious surroundings of the Royal Albert Hall, with Danny Elfman’s magical score being performed simultaneously by a live orchestra and choir. 2.30pm, 7pm, from £28

The Cambridge Theatre Seven Dials, 32-34 Earlham Street WC2H 9HU : uk.matildathemusical.com Throughout December Matilda The Musical Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, Matilda revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dares to change her destiny.

The Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB : polkatheatre.com To 3 January Beasty Baby Mayhem and laughter await around every corner as three people embark on a wild adventure to bring up a very mischievous and totally lovable child. A lively celebration of family, growing up and the rituals children go through in those extraordinary early years. Ages 3-6, £12/£9

Putney Arts Theatre Ravenna Road SW15 6AW : ticketsource.co.uk/putney artstheatre

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES See more events in our online

What’s On calendar

Bank Of England Museum Threadneedle Street EC2R 8AH : bankofengland.co.uk/museum 29-31 December Sparkling Silver, Glittering Gold Discover the Museum's collection of glittering silver objects and the allure of the gold on display, and then get creative and decorate a gold bar money box to take home.

There's a chocolate gold coin for every child. 10am-4pm FREE

Firepower Royal Artillery Museum Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST : firepower.org.uk Throughout December Their own Words A new exhibition about the Great War bringing to life artillerymen of

Our skilled staff prepare children aged 2­5 years for their next school and start them on a journey of life­long learning.

Incorporating art, cooking, music, sport, drama and all aspects of the Early Years Curriculum. Please arrange a visit to see the learning and excitement in action. www.oaktreenurseryschool.com Ramsden Hall, 21 Ramsden Road, SW12 8QX Tel: 020 8166 5932

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What’s On

Please send info for consideration to: whatson@familiessouthwest.co.uk

What’s On

Carol Concerts

St Martin in the Fields

Eltham Palace Carol Concert

Trafalgar Square WC2N 4JJ : stmartin-in-the-fields.org From 5 December Christmas is the most important time for concerts at St Martin-inthe-Fields and this season features a packed programme of festive favourites, including family Christmas concerts and carols.

Off Court Road SE9 5QE : army.mod.uk/chaplains elthampalace.org.uk 10 December Enjoy a festive music performance in the palace's beautiful Great Hall, the childhood home of Henry VIII. Book in advance on 0870 333 1183 or on the website, £15

The Music House for Children 306-310 Uxbridge Road W12 7LJ : musichouseforchildren.co.uk 6 December Christmas Carol Concert Under the sparkling chandeliers of Bush Hall, families, friends and children will enjoy Christmas carols, performances and readings by children and artists. Expect an appearance from You Know Who... £7/£6

St Bartholomew the Great 57B West Smithfield EC1A 9DS : greatstbarts.com 7 December Carols by Candlelight A wonderfully Christmassy evening of carols in one of London's oldest churches. 6.30pm, £15, £50 family

Guards Chapel, St James's Park Wellington Barracks, Birdcage Walk SW1E 6HQ : army.mod.uk/chaplains 8 December Cavalry Carols An evening of Christmas cheer with all proceeds going towards supporting the Household Cavalry Foundation. The event is followed by a drinks reception; carol service (£25) both events (£40)

December 2015

VSO Carol Concert

Carols by Candlelight

Geffrye Museum

Methodist Central Hall, Westminster : army.mod.uk/chaplains vsointernational.org/getinvolved/fundraising-events/vsochristmas-carol-concert 10 December Voluntary Service Overseas’ twentieth annual Christmas Carol Concert. Celebrity readers include Juliet Stevenson and VSO’s Patron, HRH The Princess Royal, will also be in attendance. 7.30pm, call 0333 666 3366 to book.

For COSMIC, with Chelsea Quavers St Matthews Church Bayswater, St Petersburgh Place, Bayswater W2 4LA : army.mod.uk/chaplainschelsea quavers.com 15 December A service of traditional and contemporary Christmas carols and readings, followed by mince pies and prosecco. 7pm, email info@cosmiccharity.org.uk to book.

136 Kingsland Road, Hoxton E2 8EA. : geffrye-museum.org.uk 17 December Concert by Candlelight A moving recital of a capella Christmas music by acclaimed group Bocca Aperta. 8pm, £20, £17 includes a glass of sherry or port and a mince pie.

Westminster Abbey

Canary Wharf

20 Deans Yard SW1P 3PA : army.mod.uk/chaplains westminster-abbey.org 11-24 December Celebrate the joy of Christmas with numerous concerts, musical services and a Christmas Eve carol service special. The Westminster Abbey programme kicks-off with the John Lewis Christmas concert in the Nave, and is followed by concerts, live music events, and services of lessons and carols.

One Canada Square E14 5AB : canarywharf.com 15 December Carols and Candles Service Carols will be led by the combined choirs from Canary Wharf tenants as well as members of the Canary Wharf Community Choir. 5.30pm and 7.30pm

Southwark Cathedral : cathedral.southwark.anglican.org 20 December Cathedral Carol Service 6.30pm

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Royal Albert Hall Kensington Gore SW7 2AP : royalalberthall.com 16-22 December Christmas Carol Singalongs Fun-filled jamborees of the mostloved carols.

17 December Classic Carols Join the acclaimed City of London Choir for classic Christmas carols.

Landmark Arts Centre Ferry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN : landmarkartscentre.org 19 December Carols by Candlelight A wonderful festive start to Christmas week, with carols, seasonal music and words performed by Surrey Brass and local choirs. Mulled wine and mince pies. 7.30pm, from £5

Kensington Palace Kensington Gardens W8 4PX : hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace 8-15 December Carol Singing A fun, festive evening of singing Victorian inspired carols as you explore the sumptuous State Apartments. 6pm and 8pm, £15/£10

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What’s On different nations, through extracts from their diaries, letters home and photographs.

Foundling Museum 40 Brunswick Square, WC1N 1AZ : foundlingmuseum.org.uk 17 December Bach to Baby Led by classical musicians and singers, Bach to Baby concerts at the Foundling Museum are inspired by Handel and bring classical music to babies and their parents. 10am, adults £10, children free 5 December Garlands and Holly Wreaths Join artist Daniel Lehan to discover the Christmas traditions of the Foundling Hospital. Inspired by the past, create evergreen wreaths and garlands. 10.30am-4.30pm, free, age 5+ FREE

Imperial War Museum Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ : iwm.org.uk 20-31 December A Wartime Christmas Get crafty and help decorate the museum's Christmas wreath, and learn about how people celebrated Christmas on the Home Front. Have a go at making your own charm inspired by the lucky numbers, coins and love hearts that featured in charms and tokens given as presents during the First World War. FREE

There's no room to list more here, but use our unique local searchable What’s On calendar on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

The National Gallery Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN : nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sunday in December Drawing Sundays - Changing Perspectives Explore National Gallery paintings as inspiration for your art. Discover how to draw a perspective landscape using the shapes and lines in Hobbema’s famous Avenue of Middelharnis.

11am-12.20pm and 2-3.20pm FREE

out on the ice. Adults from £12.65, children from £8.80, family from £39.60

The Royal Air Force Museum London Grahame Park Way NW9 5LL : rafmuseum.org.uk To 23 December Santa Scramble Trail Locate your way around the museum in search of Secret Santas this Christmas.

National Maritime Museum

V&A Museum of Childhood

Park Row, Greenwich SE10 9NF : rmg.co.uk/visit 28-31 December Go Wassailing! The word 'wassail' comes from the Anglo-Saxon phrase 'waes hael' meaning 'good health', and was also originally a drink made from mulled ale. Join in this special event and discover Britain's fascinating history with the fruits and spices used in this traditional Christmas drink.

Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA : museumofchildhood.org.uk 5 December Soft Toy Workshop Join maker Emma Skinmore and use a range of hand sewing techniques and reclaimed materials to create an owl inspired by the OSTROBOGULOUS! 10.30am4.30pm, £65/£60

Natural History Museum Cromwell Road SW7 5BD : nhm.ac.uk To 3 January Swarovski Ice Rink Book your skating session for a day or a night

DAYS OUT See more events in our online

What’s On calendar

The Battersea Park Children Zoo Battersea Park SW11 4NJ : batterseapark.org 5-24 December Christmas Fun Santa is coming...

Come and tell him what you’d like for Christmas. Visit includes a sticker, small gift, drink and Christmas treat, plus a Christmas Stocking Search. Usual child entrance fee plus £6

Brixton Windmill

Bank of England

Windmill Gardens, end of Blenheim Gardens SW2 5EU : brixtonwindmill.org Every weekend in December Windmill Tours Visit the 'two mills in one' and hear the intriguing story of the Ashby family. You will see the original wind-powered machinery and find out how it was once used to make stone ground flour.

Booking required

Cutty Sark

Cutty Sark King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT : rmg.co.uk/cuttysark 4 December Silent Disco Time Out's legendary silent disco is sailing down the river to Greenwich once again. Get ready to climb aboard the good ship Cutty Sark for a nose around the worldfamous attraction before donning a pair of headphones and dancing the night away. 8.30pm to midnight, £29.99, book in advance 5-6 December Cutty Sark Christmas Make your own beautiful Christmas decorations to celebrate the festive season, taking inspiration from the cargoes that Cutty Sark carried around the world. Included with admission price.

28 December Hawk Talk Join bird of prey specialist Gary Railton and Norman the hawk on the main deck of Cutty Sark and find out how he helps look after the ship and her rigging.

Dulwich Picture Gallery Gallery Road SE21 7AD : dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk Throughout December The Amazing World of M. C. Escher The first major UK show of work by the iconic graphic artist highlights Escher’s skill as a master draughtsman, presenting images which made him one of the most popular artists of the 20th century.

10am-5pm, £14 adults, children free 11am-12.30pm and 2-4pm

PARTIES! Wonderfully fun musical parties for your under-5’s! Guitar-accompanied songs with actions, joining in, jumping and dancing, instruments, puppet and parachute!

The perfect party for little ones.

Call 020 8677 6871 info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

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