Families West issue 69 November/December 2010

ISSUE 69: November/December 2010 www.familiesonline.co.uk

FREE The very useful magazine for families in West London including Kensington, Notting Hill, Maida Vale, Paddington, Hammersmith, Chiswick and Ealing

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

November – December 2010

In this issue…

It feels like a very different Christmas this year. As an optimist, I really like that it seems like we are all being a little more calm and thoughtful and all because we have slowed down a bit. I hope I will still feel like this when it comes to the Christmas crunch! What a lovely choice of feel-good Christmas events we can choose from in London. Our pages are stacked with information about them.

Remember this information is also available online. If you register then you will automatically be taken to the homepage of the area you live in. Have a really good one – and see you again in 2011.

News & Views Contents News & Views 3-5 Christmas Gift Guide 6-8 Easy Home Made Presents 9 Local Shopping 10 Christmas Holiday Workshops 11 Where's Santa this Christmas?

12-13 Out & About 14-16 Theatre and Concerts 18 Christmas Shows, Ballet & Pantomimes 19 Future Minds 20 Education 22-23 Is your Baby Living in a Toxic Environment – Part 1 24-25 Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) 26 Classifieds 27

www.FamiliesWest.co.uk New this month: ■ New entries in Directories ■ Competitions Regulars ■ Download the current magazine and access archived issues

Little Luvvies Founded in 2004, The Pop School & Stage Academy and Little Luvvies provide performing arts sessions for 3 – 18 year olds which are “relaxed yet challenging, and with an emphasis on having fun and expressing individuality.” The school prides itself on delivering first grade training with a modern twist – One week they are singing the classic ‘I Dreamed a Dream’, the next week, Rihanna’s latest chart hit. They then move on to fast paced and dynamic drama classes and hone their dance skills in energetic jazz classes. Little Luvvies classes are designed to promote creativity and develop confidence; each session combines drama, singing and dance and classes are kept small to ensure each child gets the attention they deserve.

The school also offers a range of classes throughout the week, and boasts a particularly impressive PSSA Pro Dance Troupe – look out for them at local Christmas Events! An exciting November workshop is lined up with celebrity guest teacher BBC1’s ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ finalist Tommy Franzen. The school is on the lookout for talent for their upcoming Summer Show auditions – with performances of ‘Gleeks!’ and ‘I have a dream’ lined up.

Classes run from The Corona Theatre School, Kew Bridge. Call now for a free trial session! www.pssa.co.uk call Amelia 07943 656 092 or email chiswick@pssa.co.uk

New dance classes in Ealing Anna Davydova is a fully qualified dance teacher trained by a Russian ballet company.

She has also spent time in Spain perfecting the art of Flamenco and today she performs and works as a consultant for theatre and movie companies in Europe, choreographing character dances of different styles and eras. She has also started teaching dance in Ealing. She offers classes in Ballet, Ballroom, Flamenco and Street Dance for children aged 5+ at two venues in Ealing. These are: The Bodyline Studios, Spring Bridge Mews, Ealing Broadway, W5 2AB and St. Andrews Church, Mount Park Road, W5.

Find out more by calling 07769 680056 www.AnnaDavydova.co.uk

■ Free Personal ads and Childcare ads (under Forums) ■ Local Directories (local classes, childcare, parties etc) ■ Your favourite articles archived and searchable Register By logging in you allow ALL articles you read to automatically show the relevant local companies at the bottom. It also means Families West becomes your default Home Page when you visit us. Isn't it clever!?

Families West is designed by Natalie Schmidt of www.matobodesign.com and printed by Ridgeway Press, 12 Campbell Court, Bramley, Tadley, Hampshire RG26 5EG. Tel 01252 885837. Copyright Families West Magazine 2010. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Families West is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

November – December 2010

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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News & Views Collect those pens A new campaign has been launched in schools across the country encouraging students to upcycle used writing instruments. Sponsored by Berol, Sharpie and Paper Mate in partnership with TerraCycle UK, the programme teaches pupils about sustainability while helping to raise funds for schools, charities and non-profit organisations nationwide. Collection centres will be established in 370 UK-based schools and for every writing instrument collected, 2p will be contributed to a school or charity of the participant’s choice. “Keeping one pen or marker out of landfill may seem like a small contribution, but multiply that by the estimated £208 million of writing instruments sold in the UK each year and it is a big opportunity to reduce waste to landfill,” said Gérard Danjou of Berol, Sharpie and Paper Mate. “It’s not only our responsibility but our moral obligation to do our part to help the environment.” The collected writing instruments will be dissembled and reprocessed to make a variety of new products, so get scribbling and start collecting!

Interested schools can sigh up at www.terracycle.co.uk.

Feather your garden This winter encourage birds into your garden with The Balcony Gardener’s stylish range of birdhouses, feeders and baths. Attract new feathered friends with a variety of next boxes from www.thebalconygardener.com, providing a safe and snug place for birds to roost and nest. These nest boxes are best put up during the autumn and winter, when many birds are looking for a suitable place to roost or perhaps to feed.

Choose from bird wire feeders at £4.50 and bungee feeders at £7.50, or the more expensive nesting boxes, £15.50, patterned bird baths at £18.00 and solar panel bird boxes, £49.95

Slow Down Now Kids Say Slow Down is the theme of Road Safety Week 2010, taking place 22-28 November. The charity Brake, (the organisers of the event), urge you to take part and help stop the many accidents on our roads. Go to www.roadsafetyweek.org for ideas on how to get involved and campaign for slower speeds, whether you are a teacher, company, campaigner or road safety professional. Speed is the number one killer on our roads and the faster vehicles go, the less time they have to react and the harder they hit, causing numerous head and spinal injuries, lost limbs and deaths of children. In built-up areas traffic must travel at no faster than 20mph; it must go even slower outside schools and homes, so if traffic travels faster than this in your community, take part in the campaign and stop the menace of speeding drivers. Get planning your Road Safety Week event now at www.roadsafetyweek.org.

If you have been affected by road crashes their Helpline is 0845 603 8570, www.brake.org.uk

Join the Baby Café This autumn NCT, the UK’s largest parenting charity, has joined forces with The Baby Café to help more mums who want to breastfeed. Research has shown that although most mums start out breastfeeding, 73% stop feeding before they want to and only 25% of mums are still breastfeeding at six months.

The merging of the two charities hopes to help mums to keep breastfeeding for longer, by maximising and extending The Baby Café model, combining support from the health service with a relaxed, café style environment where mums can meet, chat and learn about breastfeeding from qualified and skilled staff. Kate Williams, Director of Healthcare Professional Services at NCT, says; “This merger is great news for mums and for the health service. For over 50 years, NCT has been helping mums-to-be and new mums with their feeding choices. The Baby Café will enable us to reach out to wider communities and increase the spread and accessibility of breastfeeding drop-ins across the UK.” With over 100 drop-ins around the UK, Baby Café supports up to 10,000 mums a year.

They are open to all – mothers, partners, supporters – and take place once a week in children’s centres or community venues. www.thebabycafe. For breastfeeding support call NCT Breastfeeding Line 0300 330 0771 visit www.nct.org.uk.

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

November – December 2010

News & Views Magazines g

d Proud to be 20 years ol Get a taste for life Take your children on a food adventure with a new pre-school programme from Organix. Nursery children are being invited to discover healthy food with the launch of Taste for Life, a new pre-school education programme launched in nurseries this month across the UK. Taste for Life is a fun and interactive way of introducing fruit and vegetables to children, helping them to explore and enjoy good food from a young age and develop healthier eating habits for life. Based on a concept by Lucy Thomas, founder of the Mange Tout programme, Taste for Life is designed to encourage children to have fun discovering food and exploring the origin, shape, colour, texture and smell of fruit and vegetables.

Register your nursery at www.tasteforlifenursery.com and they will send you all the resources you need to get your little ones exploring more fruit and vegetables, from recipes and stickers to reward charts and seasonal activity plans.

Grange Children's Centre The Grange Children’s Centre opened in September 2010 with the objective of delivering the best start in life for every child by bringing together education, childcare, healthcare and family support under one roof. The newly opened Centre will work with Grange Primary School and other professionals to provide a varied and interesting programme of activities and services. The Centre offers extended school programmes, pre-school education, baby and toddler activities, family support, healthcare services, adult education and job centre support for families in the South Ealing area. It is conveniently located next to Grange Primary School in Church Gardens, Ealing W5 4HN. If you live in the area, call or drop in for more information. 020 8799 2509 www.childrenscentres.org.uk

Today Families West is part of a thriving group of franchised magazines across the UK from the Solent to Fife, but twenty years ago it was a much smaller operation. The first issue in October 1990 was a cut and paste affair in black and white—meaning scissors and glue, not copy and paste!!

The very first edition, Families® South West, had a mere 4,000 print run, and colour wasn’t to be seen until Oct 2000. How things have changed – it would be unthinkable nowadays to have a Families magazine in black & white.

Even when the experts said that “it would never work in publishing,” Families started franchising the magazine in 1995. There are now 30 editions of Families in the UK and well over 500,000 copies are printed across the group.

But throughout it all, Families has remained true to the original thinking, a hands-on magazine for busy mums with useful information, centred around the local community.

We think (well of course we would) that Families is, and always will be, the best source of local information, news, events and what’s on for parents. You are reading the right publication, well done.

Going on-line and interactive When the World Wide Web beckoned in the late 1990s, we were there. Families has had a web presence from 1997; our own site www.familiesonline.co.uk was launched in 2000 and last December saw a massive re-launch of the website. The Families website is a powerful resource that currently reaches into nearly all areas of the UK. Local editors look after their own local section filled with local articles, listings, discussion forums and free small ads.

Register as a user and find at the bottom of your chosen articles a list of relevant companies local to you. No more searching, the info comes to you. This is simply unique.

It’s almost like having a really knowledgeable friend at virtually every school/nursery gate in the country. So whereas one parent may get some information on self-esteem for older children, another will find exactly where to take a pair of rambunctious toddlers on a rainy Monday.

What’s next?

Families Online of course! Our website www.FamiliesWest.co.uk is getting a steady amount of traffic and we are proud to offer a huge bank of really useful articles. How often have I Googled something to be taken to my own website! We have Forums, local Directories, listings, What’s On and loads of great competitions (see page 8, there is £250 from Hamleys to be won) for example. Remember to log in: by logging in you allow ALL articles you read to automatically show the relevant local companies at the bottom. It also means Families West becomes your default Home Page when you visit us. Isn't it clever!?

New Theatre School in Ealing Bunbury Banter Saturday School is a new theatre school at Mount Carmel Primary School, Little Ealing Lane, Ealing. W5 4EA. They run every Saturday during term time and offer a core of drama, singing and dance lessons to children but they also specialize in media classes such as screen acting, commercials and radio classes. Their goal is to help boost your child’s confidence, communication, awareness, listening and concentration, “whilst having heaps of fun along the way.”

020 8560 9977 info@bunbanter.com

Need a Cleaner?

Reliable local cleaning and ironing service at reasonable rates.

Regular and Spring Cleaning.

All cleaners are thoroughly vetted.

Call: Andrea 020 8866 8276/07702 280 987 or Katharine 020 8954 2647/07881 783 261

M&H Helpers We also supply party helpers www.mandhhelpers.co.uk

November – December 2010

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Christmas Gift Guide

The nights have drawn in, there’s a magical feel to the chill in the air and there’s more than one kind of wrapping-up on everyone’s mind. It can only mean one thing... Christmas is on its way!

Whether that fills you with ho, ho, ho’s or Scroogelike groans, we hope this fun-filled guide to all things festive, will help make this year a Christmas to remember...

Baby’s first Christmas

It’s the thought that counts...

Latest additions may be slightly oblivious to the seasonal chaos but you’ll remember their first Christmas forever and will be keen to make it extra special. Nothing says ‘I love you’ like a keepsake or something they can cherish for years to come.

663336 – My First Dolly £19 My First Dolly will be loved by all. She is so squeezably soft that little arms will adore snuggling up to her. Dressed beautifully, she has wild hair that little hands will love to touch and tug!

463497 – Alphabet Blocks £17

by Holly Wadsworth-Hill

Painted with bright colours, clear letters and imaginative illustrations these wooden blocks ccan help little children le when learning letters, colours and m much more besides.

Top 10 Toys for Christmas 2010!

T is for trouble and toddlers!

Busy little hands are into all things naughty as well as nice, so classic toys should be at the top of the list. The educational benefits and development of imagination and play skills from these toys are extensive but cleverly masked behind the colour, fun and excitement that toddlers crave.

780114 – Teaching Clock £14 Hamleys colourful Fun to Learn Teaching Clock helps teach time, number and letter recognition, as well as developing motor and problem solving skills through play. (made from fsc wood)

778498 – Wooden London Bus £32.50

A Hamleys tale...

Stuck on the basics or searching for finishing touches? Take inspiration from the world’s mostt famous toy store storre re this year. Hamleys was established by Cornishman, William Hamley, mley, in London, in 1760. Today it remains the world’s most wonderful ul toy shop, synonymous with theatre, magic and entertainment; add a mince pie or two and you’ve got all the ingredients for a perfect Christmas!

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

The wheels on the bus go round T and round! The top of this traditional big red bus opens to reveal 24 little wooden passengers and one cheerful driver. Great for developing hand to eye co-ordination. (made from fsc wood)

November – December 2010

Celebrating the Jewish Festivals

Please remember to tell advertisers that you saw their advert in Families West London magazine To advertise contact 020 8930 4707 or email adverts@familieswest.co.uk Have a look at our website at www.familiesonline.co.uk/ Locations/London-West November – December 2010

AT WEST LONDON’S EALING LIBERAL SYNAGOGUE

JOIN US FOR THE MAGIC OF CHANUKAH Tea Party with candlelighting & Games for young and old alike December 5, 4.00pm • •

A strong, supportive Jewish community for all including those with non Jewish partners Religious, educational, social and cultural activities throughout the year; including our active Cheder Information from ELS Administrator, Peter Spencer 020 8997 0528, Mon-Fri 9.30am – 12.30pm, or email office@ealingliberalsynagogue.org.uk & www.ealingliberalsynagogue.org.uk Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Christmas Gift Guide For him

Boys of all ages need to be kept busy and love fun and games that they can really get stuck into. If he can burn off some energy, create mess and make some noise, he’ll be in his element!

157982 – Jet Plane Set £55 The Pl Playmobil Plane SSett iis greatt ffor d developing thinking Th bil JJett Pl l i thi ki processes and encouraging creative play. This exciting Playmobil play set is a hit with boys and girls alike.

780585 – Wooden Garage £65 This brightly coloured garage has three levels, multi-storey graphics and realistic features throughout. There are loads of games and adventures to be had with this traditional role-play Garage.

For her Sugar and spice and all things nice, most of the time anyway!

Creativity is a girl’s best friend; indulge her imagination with everything from dressing-up costumes, role-play sets and arts and crafts.

We hope this guide has given you some ideas and eased you into the spirit of things.

We wish you a fun-filled festive season and a very happy New Year!

92429 – Dolly Tea Set £10 Time for tea anyone? This enchanting Hamleys tea set comes in a cute carry case, so it’s perfect for taking to friends houses and keeps everything safe and tidy when little ones aren’t busy entertaining.

Win £250 of

783969 – My Balleria Doll £12 My Little Ballerina Doll is so pretty, soft and cuddly, she’s perfect for hugs! From the Sweet Peas collection, this doll is great for encouraging imagination and nurturing role-play skills.

It’s all about quality time...

‘Tis the season to spend with your loved ones: keep things merry with fun and games for the whole family.

681346 – Games Chest £60 Enjoy a gaming adventure with this classic wooden gaming chest.

Open the sliding drawers to reveal a smorgasbord of fun with 10 of the world’s greatest games!

Includes chess, mancala, backgammon, solitaire, tic-tac-toe and lots more to keep the very young and most experienced young-at-heart entertained!

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

Vouchers To celebrate 250 years of The Finest Toys in the World, Hamleys have teamed up with Families West to give you the chance to win £250 of Hamleys vouchers.

To enter log on to www.familieswest.co.uk/competitions Vouchers can be used online at www.hamleys.com or at their flagship store at 188 - 196 Regent Street, London W1B 5BT Closing date for the competition is 8th December.

See online for full Terms and Conditions.

November – December 2010

Christmas Easy home made presents

Easy wrapping paper ideas Hand Prints

Large sheets of white paper (or a roll of lining paper cut into lengths) covered in children’s hand prints, makes wrapping paper to treasure as much as the present you are wrapping.

Paper plate angel

Hanging handprint Rudolph

You will need, Paper plate Pen/pencil Scissors Tape or stapler Paints/crayons/pens/glitter/stickers for decoration.

1) Draw a pattern like this on the underside of a paper plate.

Wrinkly paper

You will need, Brown paper (or large brown envelope) Pencil Scissors Glue Hole punch Thread, string or ribbon Googly eyes (optional)

1) Trace around your child's foot and both hands using brown paper or back of an old envelope.

Get the children to paint with watery paint on a sheet of paper. Cover it with cling film, scrunch the cling film up with your fingers to make lots of wrinkles and leave to dry. Peel off the film to leave a great texture.

Glitterbug tip of the month

2) 3)

Keep a bag or box of any interesting bits and pieces. Old bits of wrapping paper, ribbons, feathers, old buttons, scraps of material, even the corrugated card outer from your Starbucks cappuccino can keep kids busy for hours.

Cut along the black lines and throw away the shaded section.

Decorate the angel with paints, glitter and Christmas table confetti.

Overlap the edges of the angel’s skirt and tape or staple it into place.

Collage picture frame This picture frame was made from a rectangle cut from a cardboard box and covered with bits that would normally have been thrown away!

2) Glue the hands as antlers to the top 3) 4)

of the footprint.

Glue a red paper nose and googly eyes to the reindeer Allow to dry, punch a hole in the top of the head and hang with thread, string or ribbon.

IdeasNovember

by Glitterbug: For regular art and craft ideas, follow “glitterbugfun” on twitter – December 2010 Families West – POwww.glitterbugfun.co.uk Box 32231 London W5 1JR 9

Shopping for

Christmas

The best place to start is your LOCAL shops. Independent businesses have been really hard hit in this recession and we need to do what we can to support them. The big chains have almost taken over our high streets so do what you can to support the smaller indies. Here is our round up of some of the best.

Children’s clothes & toys

BABY E in Chiswick or Ealing, is bursting with ideas to spoil mums-to-be, new parents and babies 0-2years old this Christmas. Treat an expectant mum with gorgeous new maternity and nursing wear and indulge your little one in pure luxury with baby Dior, Ralph Lauren and Catimini as well as contemporary nursery brands like Bugaboo, Bloom & Storksak babybags. Pick up gorgeous toys including Sophie la Giraffe, Kaloo and Steiff as well as other independent brands not found on the high street. Free gift-wrapping. Find them at 20 The Green, Ealing, London W5 5DA and 10 Devonshire Road, Chiswick, London W4 2HD 020 8840 8197 or shop online on www.babye.co.uk SNAPDRAGON stocks a great range of quality traditional toys and games suitable for all ages up to 16. Lots of the old favourite games are here as well as some of the newer arrivals on the market, as well as jigsaws, wooden toys, craft kits, Lego, playmobile and much more. 56 Turnham Green Terrace, W4 1QP 020 8995 6618

Cooking Parties!

• Fun, cooking parties • For boys and girls aged 5-16 years • Cooking classes

Give your child the best party ever! whisking, baking, giggling, rolling, making, laughing, turning, licking, joking

A great way to learn while having fun!

Call for details:

0845 601 4173 email: carola@cookiecrumbles.net www.cookiecrumbles.net

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

TROTTERS sell clothing, footwear, accessories, books and toys for children aged 0-10 as well as being the place for your child’s Christmas haircut! They have some lovely party outfits for the season - classic pinafores and dresses for girls and traditional trousers, shirts and jumpers for boys - and a selection of toys such as the little girl's vanity case and the tool kit for budding carpenters.127 Kensington High St, London W8 5SF and 84 Turnham Green Terrace, London, W4 1QN www.trotters.co.uk HONEYJAM sells a wide range of baby and children’s toys as well as dressing up clothes.

267 Portobello Road, London W11.

020 7243 0449 www.honeyjam.co.uk THEIR NIBS have a great choice of gifts for 0 - 10 year olds, from wooden to classic games, fun jersey pyjamas and pretty party dresses. 214 Kensington Park Road, Notting Hill Gate, London W11 1NR 020 7221 4263 www.theirnibs.com DARCH AND DUFF sell unique children’s watercolours and china, made to order for special occasions. They have a multitude of wonderful wooden toys, gifts, cards and clothes in their lovely shop. 68 Northfield Avenue, Ealing, London W13 9RR

Bookshops THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT – great range of children’s books and games.

106 Northfields Ave, London W13 020 8810 0880 www.owlandpussycat.co.uk BROOK GREEN BOOKSHOP stocks books for children up to age 16. They have a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books as well as colouring, sticker, scribble, origami and other puzzle books. They will also have art and craft puppet kits, paint your own kits and zoobs for boys and girls this Christmas. 72 Blythe Road, London W14 0HS. 020 7603 5999.

DAUNT BOOKS have a well stocked children’s section in lovely surroundings. Two locations in West London - 112-114 Holland Park Avenue, W11 and 83 Marylebone High St, W1 www.dauntbooks.com BOOKS FOR COOKS has a comprehensive selection of cookbooks for children (as well as a fab restaurant!) at 4 Blenheim Crescent, London W11 www.booksforcooks.com

Some more great present ideas: ■ A gift voucher for a cookery class for child?

Cookie Crumbles holds a really great selection of classes and sells vouchers online as well as a range of cooking equipment for kids. www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk ■ How about a theatre ticket? We have some of the finest children’s theatre in the country right here on our doorstep. Fantastic children’s shows on all year round – choose from the Lyric Theatre (Hammersmith), Puppet Theatre Barge (Maida Vale) and Richmond Theatre. You may be able to bag a bargain by giving tickets to a show during the “Get into London Theatre” season. (1 Jan-18 Feb).

This also includes a ticket to a theatre workshop for your child and a rare opportunity to peek behind the scenes and discover the backstage secrets of a selection of theatres. Booking opens on 7 Dec. www.getintolondontheatre.co.uk ■ A magazine subscription? OKIDO is an art and science magazine for children aged 2-7 years old, is packed with fun and entertaining stories and activities. It’s published quarterly, a subscription costs £20 for 6 issues and a single issue costs £3.50 www.okido.co.uk. For older ones try Aquila (8-13 years old) www.aquila.co.uk or Puffin Post www.puffinpost.co.uk ■ An annual membership to Kew Gardens? The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust? National Trust?

London Zoo? Places that all the family will love going to over and over again.

■ A present for yourself? This is one that will save you time and hassle over the next twelve months. Invest in a Lifebook diary by Organised Mum. It’s a joy to use with all the right spaces and information for a family. If the kids really want their own there is one for them too. My Year children’s calendar is interactive with fun reminder stickers. All available from www.organisedmum.co.uk ■ For someone really special – A piece of bespoke silver handcrafted jewellery from Fingerprint Jewellery? You can have your child’s fingerprint, handprint, footprint or one of their drawings recreated onto a silver charm and then linked to a bracelet, necklace, bookmark, cufflink or key ring. Call Vivienne on 07984 644439 e: vivienne@fingerprint-jewellery.co.uk www.fingerprint-jewellery.co.uk/paddington November – December 2010

Christmas Holiday Workshops Perform

Fun with Fimo Clay

20-22 Dec WINTER HOLIDAY DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING COURSE for ages 4-8.

Whoosh away on a Magic Carpet..... and journey over wind-swept deserts to help Aladdin and Princess Jasmine rescue the magic lamp from the evil Jafar! A combination of live original music, inspirational dance and quick witted improvisation results in a colourful mini performance on the final day.

Venues: NOTTING HILL St Peter's Hall 59A Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London, W11 3DB 2pm-4pm CHISWICK: St Michael's Hall Elmwood Road, Chiswick, London W4 3DY 2pm-4pm EALING: St Barnabas Millennium Hall Pitshanger Lane, Ealing, London, W5 1QG 2pm-4pm Book on www.perform.org.uk or call 0845 400 4000

CRAFT ACTIVITY SESSIONS for ages 6+ in Acton.

16 Dec 10am-4pm-Candy canes, Christmas puds and a Christmas board game for family fun in the holidays.

20 Dec 10am-4pm-Christmas gifts and decorations.

5 Jan 10am-4pm- Tatty Teddy in the Snow.

020 8992 3767 email: fimofun@tiscali.co.uk www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk

The Little Gym Westfield 20-30 Dec CHRISTMAS CAMP For ages 3-8.

Camps run from Mon-Thurs and are 2/3 hours long.

Theme for Week One is Winter Wonderland and for Week Two is Harry’s School of Magic. Flexible registration. "Entertain the kids during the Christmas break in a healthy, fun way." Venue: Westfield Shopping Centre, Ariel Way, London W12 7GE 020 8735 0817 www.thelittlegym.co.uk

The Little Gym Chiswick 21-23 Dec CHRISTMAS CAMP with a Winter Wonderland theme. Camps are 3 hour sessions from 9.30am-12.30pm or 1.30-4.30pm. All day club available too. Venue: University of Westminster Sports Ground, Hartington Road, W4 3AN 0208 994 3729 www.thelittlegym.co.uk

The Little Gym Wandsworth and Hampton Hill 22-23 Dec CHRISTMAS CIRCUS CAMPS For ages 3-12. Camps run from Wed-Thurs and are 3 hours long. Circus based activities will keep the children entertained and active. Flexible registration. Wandsworth 020 8874 6567 or Wandsworth@thelittlegym.co.uk / Hampton Hill 020 8977 0099 or hamptonhill@ thelittlegym.co.uk or www.thelittlegym.co.uk

Creative Wiz Kids 20-24 Dec KIDS HOLIDAY CLUB in Primrose Hill and Hampstead. 10am-1pm for children aged 3-7.

A themed art week with dancing, imaginative play, cake decorating, free play and lots of fun. 020 7794 6797 www.creativewizkids.com

November – December 2010

Need the extra Secret Santa time in the run up to Christmas? Here’s the perfect answer… keep the children stimulated and having lots of fun.

31 Dec PICTURE ROOM CALENDAR Make a calendar to give you the best start for the New Year!

Inspired by Soane’s wonderful Picture Room. (Full day) Book on 020 7440 4263 or E: administrator@soane.org.uk www.soane.org

Kite Studios 13-22 Dec CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY ART WORKSHOPS at 2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY. 10-11am for ages 4-7 and 12-4pm for age 8+ 13- Monuments inspired by artist Rachel White Reed – Sculpture 14- Green Cities looking at Hundertwasser – Painting 15- Patterns on pebbles, designs from the 1960’s 16- From Byzantine to Chris Ofili paintings, the patterned portrait 17- Getting inventive with the Campana brothers – Recycled Design 18- After Turner – Landscapes – watercolour and dry point 20- From archangels to apples – Christmas delights for your tree 21- Figures inspired by the nativity – Painted clay modelling 22- Hanging Felt Fabric characters – Stuffing and stitching

Fit for Sport 20-23 Dec CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY CAMP for ages 3-12. Activity sessions promoting a healthy lifestyle at Belmont Primary School Chiswick, Trailfinders Sports Club Ealing, The Bretham Club Ealing, Ethos Sport Imperial College Kensington, Kensington Leisure Centre and East Acton Primary School. 0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk

Sir John Soane’s Museum Workshops for ages 7+ developing a skill or exploring Soane’s treasures with specialist guidance. Whole day workshops run from 10am-3pm and half day from 10.30am-12.30pm or 2-4pm. All materials provided.

Venue:13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3BP 22 Dec CHRISTMAS, ALL WRAPPED Make your own printed Christmas wrapping paper by creating stencils inspired by patterns in the Museum. (Full day) 30 Dec ROMAN ‘ARTY’FACTS Investigate Roman objects in Sir John Soane’s collection. Get messy with clay and make you own artefacts to take home.

Two half day workshops.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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a t n a S s ' e r e h W s? a m t s i r h C s i h t

19 Nov-23 Dec – Right next to the German Christmas Market on the Southbank is Santa’s Secret Village where children can have a chat with the big man himself. Santa’s elves will guide children to a magically decorated yurt where Santa will entertain them with stories and jokes, and chat with them. (14 children per “show”) Children can show Santa their list and also receive a gift and a photo. £10/15 per child. www.santas-secret-village.co.uk

Bocketts Farm 2 – 24 December, 10am – 5.30pm. (Santa 11am – 2.30pm weekdays up until Friday 10th, all weekdays and weekends for Santa 10am – 5pm).

Voted by ‘The Guardian’ as one of the top 6 places in the UK to see Santa. Children ride the trailer on the Santa Express to his magical hay barn workshop where each child receives an exciting present. Plus there’s no queuing because you can enjoy the farm while waiting for your allocated time. Pre-booking is only necessary for groups of 8 or more children. £4.95 per child when you are paying farm entry, and £8.95 for those only wishing to see Santa. Also this December, there will be hundreds of Christmas trees and wreaths on sale. Also, the Old Barn Tearoom will also be serving homemade mince pies and mulled wine, and the Gift Shop is open every day stocking a fantastic range of gifts and toys for all ages. Children can also see the first set of new born lambs, with 25 expected from early December!

01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Winter Wonderland Hyde Park 19 Nov -24 Dec – Santa and his entertaining elves welcome children to his Hyde Park grotto every day from 12 noon to 6pm, and 4pm on Christmas Eve – from Boxing Day onwards he takes well earned rest!

There is no charge to meet Santa, and he receives kids of all ages on a ‘first-come first-served basis’, treating children who have been very, very good to a special gift. Visitors are welcome to take their own photographs with Santa, however an official Winter Wonderland photographer will be on hand to take special souvenir shots available for purchase on the day. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Selfridges The Grotto is open from 20 Nov-24 Dec in the Ultralounge on the Lower Ground Floor of the department store in Oxford Street.

The theme this year is Santa’s Express and will tell the story of a child’s letter to Santa as it makes its way from letterbox to Lapland.

Tickets: Adults £5, Children £3, Family package (2+2) £12.50 available from www.selfridges.com

Hamleys Enjoy breakfast or tea with Santa from 1-24 Dec. Santa's Elves will greet guests and there will be scrumptious food to enjoy and gingerbread biscuits to decorate and take home! Each little guest will have an individual chat with Santa and he will tell tales of Lapland and stories about Christmas. Then when it's time for Santa to leave, each guest will have an exclusive Hamleys goodybag to take home. Breakfast: 8:30 - 9:30am (excluding Sundays.) Tea: 4 - 5pm everyday. Bookings must be made and paid for in advance. Each place is £45 and is suitable for children aged 3 and above.

0844 855 2424 www.hamleys.com

Kew Gardens Visit Father Christmas in his sparkly grotto amongst frozen forest trees, located within the tropical setting of the Princess of Wales Conservatory from 11-23 Dec, 12 noon to 3pm. Hear a story and tell him those exciting Christmas wishes. Children must be accompanied by an adult, no advance booking, queue closes at 3pm. Free event.

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

November – December 2010

Santas on the Run

Santa’s Secret Village

Ice Skating Westfield Shopping Centre 14 Nov-3 Jan - Rocket the Reindeer™ and friends will be showing ‘Rocket’s Sleigh Adventure’ a new story in 3D all about Santa’s sleigh being kidnapped by Rocket the Reindeer™ and The Cheeky ™. Whilst Santa gets stranded down the chimney, those two mischievous friends go on sleigh ride adventures. See ‘Pip and Pop'™ fly in their new ‘Elf jet packs™’ and, with the Wishfairy’s™ magical sprinkle dust, hopefully they can rescue Santa in time to deliver all the presents on Christmas Eve. After the show, Santa will be in his Ice Kingdom waiting to meet children and hand out gifts. Free if booked in-centre from 12 Nov. Online booking is £1.50.

One of the really lovely things to do in London over the Christmas period with the family. There are lots around but here is our list of top rinks to visit this holiday. ❅ Natural History Museum www.nhm.ac.uk 5 Nov-9 Jan. Children (12 and under): £8.50 peak / £8 off-peak. Adults: £13 peak / £11.50 off-peak, Family ticket, £36 peak / £31 off-peak ❅ Somerset House www.somersethouse.org.uk 23 Nov-23 Jan Daytime: Adults £10.50, Children £7.50 Family Ticket £30. Evening: Adults £13, Children £8.50, Family ticket evening £36. Peak Weekend Sessions: Adults £13, Children £8.50, Family £36

0871 330 8077. Book online at www.wish4ticket.com/ booking/event.aspx?eid=2

❅ Hampton Court Palace www.hamptoncourticerink.com 27 Nov-9 Jan Peak: Adults £11.50, Children £8, Family £32.

Off peak: Adults £10, Children £7.50, Family £30

Rainforest Café

❅ Tower of London www.toweroflondoniceskatingrink.com 20 Nov-9 Jan Peak: Adults £12, Children £8, Family £32.

Off Peak: Adults £10, Children £7.50, Family £30

21 Nov-24 Dec Enter through the Frozen Rainforest, decorated with help from Jack Frost, and meet Santa Claus in his grotto deep in the jungle.

Presents will be wrapped up and ready for him to deliver, so remember to bring your Christmas Wish List to make sure Santa knows exactly what you want. Grotto visit includes a personalised invitation from Santa, a welcome greeting from his elves and a meeting with the man himself, a festive goody bag and a two-course meal and drink for children. £39.50 per child. Accompanying adults must eat a main course too. Restaurant at 20 Shaftesbury Avenue, W1.

Booking on 7434 3111or e:santasgrotto@therainforestcafe.co.uk

Odds Farm Park 27 Nov-4 Dec-(weekends 27 Nov-19 Dec & daily 20-24 Dec) Visit Santa in his Magical Grotto at the farm. All children receive a toy, choose a free chocolate treat from the tree, and can watch Christmas themed Puppet Shows featuring giant puppets and yuletide stories (weekends 4-19 Dec) Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP10 0LX 01628 520188 www.oddsfarm.co.uk.

Santas on the Run 2 Dec – Not just one, but hundreds of Santas running to raise money for Children’s Hospices UK. Adults and children of all ages and abilities are invited to dress up, take part and raise money for this good claus!

London’s event takes place at the Riverside Walkway adjacent to Gabriel’s Walk at 6.30pm. www.santasontherun.org.uk

Santa to your door You could invite Father Christmas to your home where he will stay for 20 minutes, talk to your children about their favourite things, deliver their presents and enjoy a mince pie. Adam Ants is available for personal visits throughout the season including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. 0208 959 1045 www.adamantsparties.com

November – December 2010

❅ Winter Wonderland Hyde Park www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com 19 Nov-4 Jan Adults from £10, Children from £8, Family from £28 ❅ Westfield Shopping Centre 13 Nov-2 Jan Peak: Adults £10.50, Children £7.50, Family £32, Off Peak; Adult £9.50, Children £6.50, Family £25 ❅ London Eyeskate www.londoneye.com Adult £10.50, Children £7.50

5 more things to do with the family in London this Christmas ■ Take a walk to see the lights. Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street and Marylebone High Street have a spectacular display of lights and shop windows beautifully decorated.

■ Marvel at the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square and join in the carol singing. Christmas carols at Trafalgar Square take place every night from 7-22 Dec from 5-9pm.

■ Watch and giggle – The Great Christmas Pudding Race takes place on the 4th of December in the piazza at Convent Garden.

150 contestants will don fancy dress and race around a course strewn with flour filled balloons, foam jets and other obstacles, all while trying to balance a Christmas pudding on a flimsy plate! www.xmaspuddingrace.org.uk ■ Sing carols by candlelight at the Royal Albert Hall (18-24 Dec.) Seasonal classics performed in full 18th century costume in a candle lit style setting, as well as reading from “A Christmas Carol” and “The Birth of the Infant Jesus.”

■ Layer up! You will feel the cold even watching the members of the Serpentine Swimming Club competing in their annual race across the icy waters of Hyde Park’s Serpentine lake vying for the Peter Pan cup on Christmas Day at 9am!

■ We said 5 – but there are literally hundreds of ideas of where to go and what to do in our Out and About and Theatre pages…

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Out & About LOCAL EVENTS

Southbank Centre

20 Nov ADVENT FAIR 12 noon-3pm. Fun for all ages - tea & cakes, games, traditional stalls etc Venue: St Martin's Church Hall, Vale Gardens, Acton W3 9SQ 27 Nov NOTTING HILL AND EALING HIGH SCHOOL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR Get into the spirit of Christmas with some mulled wine and mince pies and start your Christmas shopping early. Jewellery & Craft Stalls, International Food Fair, Tombola, Game and fun for everyone. 2, Cleveland Road, London W13. £1.50 adults entrance fee.

3 Dec NCT EALING'S WINTER WONDERLAND EVENT FOR BABIES AND TODDLERS (ages 0 - 4). 2.30-4.30pm. Celebrate your baby's first Christmas at St John's Church, Mattock Lane, Ealing W13 9LA. All welcome! Meet Father Christmas, activities for babies and toddlers, mini Christmas bazaar, carols and festive refreshments. Tickets available on the door only. £5.00 per adult and 1 child each. £2.50 additional adult or child. If you would like to get involved: Volunteer on the day, bake a cake, host a stall, please contact fundraising@ealingnct.org 15 Dec CHRISTMAS CRAFTS AND GIFTS FAIR, held in aid of The Brompton Fountain, at Baden Powell House, South Kensington, London from 6.309.30pm.with a fantastic range of stalls selling items such as handcrafted jewellery and accessories, handmade soaps and creams and beautiful children's clothing and toys. There will be a large luxury chocolate fountain and other yummy refreshments. Entrance is £2, which includes a complimentary glass of wine or soft drink. www.thebromptonfountain.org.uk.

2 Dec EALING 135 GROUP ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR selling a fabulous and unusual range of gifts and products, mostly handmade.

Jewellery, handmade baby clothes, toys, bags, ceramics, photo albums, home produce and lots more. Refreshments and fantastic raffle prizes. 7-9 p.m. in the Victoria Hall, Ealing Town Hall. New Broadway, Ealing W5 2BY £2 entrance fee.

Some highlights: - Fri 19 Nov-Thurs 23 Dec. THE COLOGNE CHRISTMAS MARKET (see below) - Fri 3 -Sun 5 Dec. REAL FOOD CHRISTMAS MARKET - Fri 10 –Sun 12 Dec. THE CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL - Sat 11 Dec. MESSIAH BY CANDLELIGHT at The Royal Festival Hall 19 Nov- 23 Dec COLOGNE CHRISTMAS MARKET at London’s South Bank next to London Eye. Traditional Christmas Market taking place from Sun – Thurs, 11am – 8pm and Fri – Sat10am – 10pm.

A chance to buy unusual Christmas presents such as amber & silver jewellery, hand crafted toys, fragile glass ornaments for your Christmas tree, hand tatted laces, tin toys, candles in all shapes and sizes, hand-made ceramics or creative metal design. Younger visitors can enjoy the carousel, and a visit to Santa’s Secret Village where they can meet Father Christmas in an enchanting 30 minute show. www.santas-secret-village.co.uk Lots of delicious seasonal culinary treats on sale as well the traditional gluhwein. www.xmas-markets.com Hyde Park

Syon Park

CHRISTMAS AT SOUTHBANK CENTRE www.southbankcentre.co.uk With stunning riverside views, shimmering tree lights and special sprinkle of festive spirit, South Bank caters for all the Christmas needs: stocking fillers, seasonal markets and Christmas dinners to cracking shows and the best family entertainment. Please visit the website for a full programme starting mid-Nov. 14 14

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LAPLANDUK Bewl Water Estate, near Tunbridge Wells in Kent, just 40 miles from Central London.

0871 620 7063 www.laplanduk.co.uk £44.50 to £62.50.

4-24 Dec. This is the multi-million pound interactive theatrical production which recreates Father Christmas’ arctic homeland. Christmas workshops, ice-skating, husky dogs, reindeers, Father Christmas’ post Office and toy factory and much more for a magical traditional Christmas experience for families.

EVENTS THE 2010 LORD MAYOR’S SHOW 13 Nov 11am at Mansion House following a military flypast.

It will travel down Cheapside to St Paul’s Cathedral where the lord Mayor will be blessed before proceeding to the Royal Courts of Justice on the Strand. Groups from all over the world alongside military bands, charities, community projects and much more. At 5pm Spectacular fireworks display on the Thames between Blackfriars Bridge and Waterloo Bridge. For info, maps, timetable go to www.lordmayorsshow.org LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL 12-21 Nov www.londonfestival.org.uk The family friendly matinees are the perfect opportunity for adults and children alike to share the joy of jazz in the capital’s biggest pan-city music festival. For a full programme please visit the website.

CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE 19 Nov-5 Dec (Fri, Sat and Sun nights 5-8pm) SYON PARK ENCHANTED WOODLAND Come for a walk in the Park in the Dark.....this is a magical event which sees an illuminated trail laid out through the Gardens and Arboretum of Syon. As the path winds around the eighteenth century lake, a range of exciting lighting effects bring the landscape to life in a whole new way. The shapes and textures of Syon’s fine old trees are thrown into sharp contrast against the night sky, or reflected in the mirror of the lake before the route culminates at the magnificent Great Conservatory.

A unique and magical event for young and old alike.

Adults £5, children £2. Food and refreshments will be available every night. www.syonpark.co.uk

CHRISTMAS FAIR AT THE O2 A102, Greenwich, Greater London SE10 0 0870 534 4444 www.christmasfairattheo2.co.uk 21 Nov-3 Jan. The O2 will be transformed into a winter fairytale with Father Christmas, thrill rides and a traditional German Christmas Market across 10,000 square metre area, offering visitors sheltered areas to enjoy the attractions whatever the weather.

- 1 Dec. Free visit to Father Christmas - 23 Dec. Christmas spectacular: a night of carols, traditional tunes and some Christmas number ones presented by Myleene Klass.

- Open on NYE until 6am New Years Day. Booking: www.theo2.co.uk/christmasfair Advance passes to enjoy unlimited access to the rides: Adults £20, children £17.50.

WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com 19 Nov-4 Jan. 10am to 10pm everyday, seven days a week across 3200m2 of historic parkland. Closed on Christmas day.

Featuring: - The largest open air rink in Central London - 50m Observation wheel - Zippo’s Christmas Circus in its very own heated big top with its special show.

- Wider variety of themed ride for children - German market - Festive catering from around the world - Indoor and outdoor bars - Santa: Father Christmas will be at the Hyde Park bandstand along with his elves everyday.

Free to enter, with tokens for all rides and attractions available for purchase on the day, but bkg is recommended for Ice Rink and the Wheel. New for 2010, will be the Angel’s Christmas Market, located at the Hyde Park entrance to Winter Wonderland. The Market will feature over one hundred wooden chalets offering unusual and handmade gifts, including ceramics, candles, glasswork, jewellery, clothing and beauty products. In the evening, the Winter Wonderland Big Top will present ‘Cirque D’Hiver’ a brand new world-class Circus featuring contortionists, aerialists, acrobats, the heart-stopping Wheel of Death and a final battle of fire.

Some highlights: - Sun 14 Nov. Southbank, Purcell Room, 2pm.

Marilyn Mazur – Jazz for kids.

- Sun 21 Nov. Barbican. 2pm. Big Sing! Cleveland Watkiss will be on hand to impart her knowledge and help children develop their skills.

- Sun 21 Nov. Blue Room, Spirit Level, Royal Festival Hall. 11am. Workshops for Young People. Indo-Jazz Improvisation for all instrumentalists with Arun Ghosh.

INSTITUT FRANCAIS YOUTH FESTIVAL 17 – 20 Nov A celebration of children’s books, illustration and films through an inspirational series of events. Children aged 3 to 15 will have the opportunity to hear and meet French and British authors and illustrators, have their books signed and take part in story-telling, workshops and talks. The event will be kicked off with a drawing duel between Quentin Blake and François Place, (Wed 17 Nov, 6.30pm), which will provide an engaging exchange of ideas for all to watch!

Events open to the public will be complemented by workshops by the illustrators and authors. Venue: Institut Français, 17 Queensberry Place, South Kensington, London SW7 020 7073 1350 - www.institut-francais.org.uk

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Out & About DAYS OUT SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE Bank side, 21 New Glove Walk, London SE1 9DT 020 7902 1400 www.shakespeares-globe.org 13-14 Nov. FAMILY ACTIVITY WEEKEND The perfect destination for visitors wishing to discover more about Shakespeare and the London in which he lived and worked. With live sword fighting demonstrations, Elizabethan costume dressing or printing demonstrations using a full-size recreation of a 17th Century printing press. Part of general admission ticket.

KEW GARDENS Kew Green, Richmond TW9. 020 8332 5655 or info@kew.org, www.kew.org Open 9.30am-6.30pm (Weekdays), 9.30am-7.30pm (weekends). £11.50/£13.30, children under 17 free.

BOTANICAL PLAY A brand new play area “PLANTastic Play” to celebrate International Year of Biodiversity. This new area will encourage children to learn about the importance of plants whilst they play in a fun and interactive environment.

5 Dec-3 Jan. CHRISTMAS AT KEW - Beautifully decorated tree from 5 Dec. - Delightful entertainment and arts and crafts activities at the Climbers and Creepers interactive area.

- 12 Dec-3 Jan. 11am-3.30pm. Seasonal face painting.

- Self guided Thinking Walk for families with young children.

- 12 Dec-23 Dec. Daily 12pm-3pm. Festive grotto and FATHER CHRISTMAS. - Traditional horse and carriage rides.

- Kew’s majestic glasshouses.

MINI MAESTRO FAMILY CONCERT St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 4JJ 020 7766 1100 www.smitf.org The Mini Maestro team will bring the music alive by storytelling, miming and exploring its meanings. There are specially adapted games of “hide and seek”, musical chairs” and a chance to hear the instruments close-ups as our friendly musicians go “walkabout” in the audience. www.LMAorchestra.com Sat 20 Nov. 4.45pm-5.30pm. BEETHOVEN 5TH SYMPHONY. Sat 11 Dec. 4pm-5pm. PROKOFIEV PETER AND THE WOLF

BATTERSEA PARK CHILDREN’S ZOO Battersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate, London SW11 020 7924 5826 www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk Daily from 10am. Usual child entrance fee £6 + £3.50 SANTA IS COMING! 11-24 Dec (on Christmas Eve until 3.30pm) VISIT SANTA Includes: Sticker, small gift, voucher for a warm blackcurrant drink & Christmas biscuit. Bkg from 1 Nov: 020 7924 5826 or upon entry to the zoo on the day.

Battersea Park Children's Zoo

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11-24 Dec. CHRISTMAS STOCKING TRAIL Follow the clues on the Christmas Quiz Sheet to work out which animals has put out a stocking for Santa!

Usual child entrance £6 + £1 (includes a prize).

22, 23 and 27 Dec – 3 Jan SNOWY STORIES 11am and 3.30pm – drop-in. Snowy stories and sing-along to seasonal transport themed songs in an action packed rhyme time for under 5’s.

SOMERSET HOUSE

THE NATIONAL GALLERY

Strand, London WC2 1LA 020 78454600, www.somerset.org.uk

Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN 020 7747 2885 www.nationalgallery.or.uk

SATURDAYS 2pm-3.30pm. Free Family Workshops: Free tickets are available from 1pm from the information desk in the Seamen’s Hall on the day and are allocated on a first come, first served basis. Children 6-12yrs must be accompanied by an adult.

FAMILY SUNDAYS Free hands-on art workshops at 11am & 2pm every Sunday. Meet in the Education Centre Foyer. Workshops last 2hrs.

13 Nov. WATERCOLOUR WETLANDS Many artists have tried to capture the sea, rivers and lakes in their paintings. Discover these in The Courtauld Gallery and then create your own wet and wonderful watercolour landscape.

20 Nov. QUICK DRAW COUTURE Embankment Galleries, Somerset House. Take inspiration from the exhibition “Dior Illustrated: René Gruau and the Line of Beauty and capture your favourite fashions as though you were reporting from the catwalk!

Sat 27 Nov. Somerset House. FIGURE IT OUT! Discover how to make sculptures of figures in action; inspired by artists of the past who captured the movement of dancers and sportspeople.

23 Nov-23 Jan. ICE RINK. A great Family treat!

0844 847 1520 or online.

WWT WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth's Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT. 020 8409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk/london Daily 9.30am - 5pm £4.95/ £8.95, under 4s free, family £25.

THE POND ZONE With interactive games, a trip down a plughole, and underwater cameras. The public can watch fascinating aquatic creatures in their natural habitat. Also includes a pond safari and a stunning new digital pond that features a photo-realistic interactive floor depicting a number of different types of wetland habitats such as ponds, lilies and pools.

THE RAIN GARDEN With lush vegetation, a cascade of pools, flowers meadows, creature towers and a pavilion it’s an idyllic setting to relax in, and to learn how to maximise the use of rain water in your own garden.

CHRISTMAS FUN FOR FAMILIES: Wed 8 Dec. CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT With a special visit from Father Christmas. Free entry after 6pm, starts at 6.45pm. Hot food and drinks available, including mulled wine and mince pies.

Sat 11 & Sun 12 Dec. CHRISTMAS SHOPPING WEEKEND Bring the children to visit Father Christmas.

Fri 17–Fri 31 Dec. CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY FUN Daily children activities and arts and crafts workshops.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB 020 7565 7299 www.ltmuseum.co.uk Open Sat-Thurs 10am-6pm, Fri 11am-6pm. Free for accompanied children under 16 years.

27 Dec-3 Jan BAUBLE BLITZ Festive family fun at London Transport Museum. 12:30 and 2pm drop-in.

Create the perfect party decorations. As part of the exhibition Under Attack: London, Coventry and Dresden and continuing with our make-do-and-mend workshops, design your very own baubles and paper chains just like ones that may have decorated the platforms whilst sheltering on the Tubes during the Blitz. Using newspapers, magazines, left over wrapping paper and images from the Museum’s collection create giant baubles and paper chains to take home. Suitable for ages 5+

FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN AGED 5 TO 11 YRS: NEW HANDS-ON ARTMAKING SESSIONS 11am, 12.30pm & 2.30pm every Sunday. Meet in the Education Centre Foyer (Orange St entrance).

28 Nov. SHAKE THAT BODY Explore your bones and movement in this paper construction workshop.

7 Nov, 5 Dec. ELEMENTAL ESCAPADE Imagine the effects of earth, wind and air and create a colourful landscape.

14 Nov, 12 Dec. RHYTHM REMIX ATTACK Recreate the rhythms of roses, horse and warriors in this construction workshop.

21 Nov, 19 Dec. MASK ACTION Make your own hero or heroine disguise.

FOR UNDER 5s: STORYSCAPE. Every Sunday 10.30-11.15am and 11.30am-12.15pm Exciting interactive stories. 2-5yrs. Meet in the Education Centre Foyer.

MORE GALLERY FUN: 7 Nov, 5 Dec. FAMILY WALK AND TALK 12.30pm-1.30pm.

An active looking adventure through the collection.

Meet in the Education Centre Foyer.

TRAILS AND AUDIO TOURS Families can print it out from www.nationalgallery.org.uk/families or pick one up at Information Desks.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY St Martin’s Place, London WC2H 0HE, 020 7306 0055, www.npg.org.uk/events Mon, Tues, Wed, Sat, Sun 10am-6pm. Late opening Thurs, Fri 10am-9pm.

FAMILY EVENTS: Meet in Main Hall 20 Nov. FAMILY STORYTELLING WITH ART ACTIVITY – THE PIRATE PRINCE 10.30am-11.15am. Free. Make a pirate ship after the story of Prince Rupert. 3yrs+.

20 Nov. FAMILY ART WORKSHOP – REGENCY GAMES 11.30am-1pm. Free tickets available at the information Desk one hour before the event. Find out what games children played 200 years ago and make your own game. 5yrs+.

20 Nov. FAMILY STORYTELLING WITH ART ACTIVITY – THE PIRATE PRINCE 1.30pm-2.15pm. See above. 3yrs+.

20 Nov. FAMILY ART WORKSHOP – REGENCY GAMES 2.30pm-4pm. See above. 5yrs+.

18 Dec. CHRISTMAS AT THE GALLERY FOR FAMILIES Listen to a special story about a family who visits the Gallery a few days before Christmas, join in with a festive art workshop afterwards and make your own Christmas decoration. 3yrs+.

NEW FAMILY AUDIO GUIDE Exciting new audio tours for families are now available to help young visitors enjoy the Gallery’s collection.

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Out & About ASIA HOUSE 63 New Cavendish Street, London W1G 7PL 020 7307 5454 www.asiahouse.org 5 Nov-12 Feb. THE TIGER IN ASIAN ART Rare Asian paintings, sculptures, textiles and photographs.

Today the population of wild tigers is only 3200, the aim would be to double it. Aspects of the project are very much family orientated. The exhibition has an interactive element with rolling documentary films about the plight of the tiger and is a great way for kids to learn about this urgent issue.

Sat 27 Nov. 2pm-4pm. ‘TIGER FAMILY DAY’ Story telling, mask making and other activities, plus workshops teaching brush painting and calligraphy, tiger mask dance and music. The exhibition is free but donations are welcome. All proceeds will go to the charities WildAid, Born Free and the Environmental Investigation Agency.

Mon 13 Dec. CAROLS AT THE ZOO A night with a festive fun with a difference. Giving visitors the chance to have their faces painted or enjoy a nostalgic ride on the carousel, and even possible meet some of the zoo’s exciting inhabitants. Sip on a glass of mulled wine and sing along to the carols with the choir. £12/£14.

NATIONAL TRUST For more information about the events and activities go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk A packed programme of festive workshops, interiors decorate with fresh foliage and sparkling Christmas trees, shops brimming with gifts and cafés serving delicious seasonal meals.

National Trust

LEEDS CASTLE. Seven miles east of Maidstone and clearly signposted from junction 8 of the M20. 01622 880008 or www.leeds-castle.com

DARWIN CENTRE: The hidden world of the Natural History Museum’s scientific collections and research. Daily 10am-5.50pm. To book time tickets for Cocoon 020 7942 5725 or www.nhm.ac.uk/darwin-centre EVENTS FOR FAMILIES: check the full listing on www.nhm.ac.uk/whats-on Here some highlights: 6, 20 Nov and 4, 18 Dec. HANDS ON NATURE: OCEANS MAMMALS. Free. Using interesting material children can make fun creations based on natural history themes. Under 7yrs In the Mammals Gallery. 28 Nov and 26 Dec. NATURAL PUPPET TALES. Free, to reserve a place visit the Central Hall information Desk. Lively storytelling workshops based on discovering amazing facts about the natural world. Under 7yrs.

SCIENCE MUSEUM

Leeds Castle

HAM HOUSE Ham, Richmond-upon-Thames 020 8940 1950.

FAMILY CHRISTMAS FUN (inc. all activities) 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 Dec, 11am-5pm (craft fair, mini carousel and themed trail for children, wreath making for adults) £2.35/£3.50.

The beautiful moated castle is set in 500 acres of tranquil parkland and has a rich 1,000 year history, making it an ideal day out throughout the year.

6 to 24 Dec. CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE A traditional Christmas with rooms transformed into a world of fairy tales, warming lunch and relaxing shopping, Father Christmas in his Grotto, fairy story characters who come to life, and Charles’ Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol” on stage with The chapterhouse Theatre Company. Check the website for pre-booking arrangements for evening tours, Father Christmas and the Christmas show. Additional charge applies.

LONDON ZOO Regent’s Park Outer Circle, Marylebone, London NW1 4RY, 020 7722 3333, www.zsl.org To 31 Dec. RAINFOREST LIFE IN LONDON ZOO A living rainforest in display containing native to the South American Rainforest. See three types of monkey, sunbittern birds, two-toed sloths and agoutis rodents which are nowadays on the endangered list.

A fun and interactive display of a very fragile ecosystem that is in decline. Don’t forget to check out the special “Night Life” zone.

FAMILY CAROL CONCERT IN THE GREAT HALL 4, 11, 18 Dec, 4.30pm-6pm. £9/£16.

Bkg essential 0844 249 1895. (Father Christmas handing out presents to children) TIMELESS CAROLS IN THE GREAT HALL 2, 12, 19 Dec, 4.30pm-6pm. £17.50, bkg essential 0844 249 1895.

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS DINNER in the Orangery 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 Dec from 6.30pm. . £21/£30. Bkg essential 020 8940 0735.

OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth, Middlesex 020 8232 5050 CHRISTMAS AT OSTERLEY PARK 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 Dec 12-3.30pm. Normal adm charge.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR. Dates as above.

CAROL SINGING 5, 12, 19 Dec, 2pm & 3pm.

CHILDREN CRAFT AFTERNOONS 5, 12, 19 Dec 12.30-3.30pm.

CHRISTMAS LUNCHES 1-17 Dec, Wed to Fri, from 12noon. £25.95. Bkg essential, at least one week in advance 020 8232 5057.

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ READING 11 Dec. Excerpts read by Lucinda Hawksley, Charles Dickens’ great-great-great granddaughter!

EXHIBITIONS & MUSEUMS NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road, London SW7. 020 7938 9123.

Open: Mon-Sat: 10am – 5.50pm Sun: 11am-5.50pm.

Info: Mon-Fri 020 7942 5000.

Sat & Sun 020 7942 5011. Free. www.nhm.ac.uk

London Zoo

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To 11 Mar 2011. VEOLIA ENVIRONMENT WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR The world’s most prestigious showcase of wildlife photography is back with the latest winning entries from its annual international competition. Visually stunning and often thought-provoking, the images provide an insight into the beauty, drama and variety of nature. Gift Aid adm £4.50 to £9, family £24. www.nhm.ac.uk/wildphoto

Families Famiili Fami Fam ilies es West West PO Wes PO Box Box o 32231 32231 London London Lond Lon don W5 1JR 1JJR

NEW EXHIBITION: To 12 Dec. AMAZONIA Contemporary artwork from Lucy + Jorge Orta inspired by an expedition into the /Peruvian rainforest, one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. The works, including sculpture, photography and video, highlight the importance of the natural world and examine the value of nature. www.bioderversityislife.net Free.

Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk Open 10am-6pm. Info & bkg 0870 870 4868. Adm is free but charges apply to some special exhibitions, IMAX cinema and simulator rides NEW GALLERY: WHO AM I? What makes you smarter than a chimp? What makes you smile? What makes you, you? This new exhibition presents the latest in brain science and genetics through a mixture of interactive exhibits and object-rich displays. Visit now to discover yourself! Free.

LAUNCHPAD SCIENCE SHOWS Launch a rocket, turn your head into a sound box and control a magnetic cloud and play with 50 more brand new interactive exhibits demonstrating light, sound, electricity and magnetism and more amazing physics phenomena.

Free. 8-14yrs.

IMAX 3D Cinema. WILD OCEANS. Charges apply.

Opens 4 Dec. ATMOSPHERE: EXPLORING CLIMATE CHANGE This exhibition will transform the second floor of the Wellcome Wing in the Museum, making it THE destination to explore the science of climate change. Free.

FAMILY EVENTS-FREE: Weekends in Nov and Dec. SPACED OUT Come and discover the fascinating world of roaring rockets, amazing astronauts and smelly space poo! In the exploring Space Gallery on the ground floor. 5yrs+. ICY COOL ADVENTURE STORYTELLING Explore the wondrous wintry world of Iceland in this fun, interactive storytelling session. In the energy Briefing Room on the second floor. 7yrs+.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM Lambeth Road, London SE1 6HZ. 10am-6pm.

020 7416 5320/5321. www.iwm.org.uk FAMILY ACTIVITIES: 7, 13 & 14 Nov. MUD, BLOOD & POPPYCOCK 11am-12noon & 2pm-4pm. Find out what it was like to serve in the First World War by examining typical objects from the Museum’s Collections.

Free, all ages with parental supervision.

7, 13 & 14 Nov. POPPY MAKING 11am-12noon & 2pm-4pm. A chance for visitors to make their own commemorative poppies while discussing the concepts of the cost of war and remembrance. Free, all ages with parental supervision.

November Novem Novem No e ber ber – December Decemb Dec ember ber e 2010 2010 201

November – December 2010

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Theatre & Concerts THE LYRIC HAMMERSMITH THEATRE Lyric Square, King Street, London W6 0OL 0871 22 117 20 www.lyric.co.uk

© Chris Riddell

Saturdays shows 11am/1pm £6/£8, then “MESSY PLAY” arts and crafts activities £5, 12pm & 2pm. £9 for Show and Messy Play Workshop. Add Messy Play to your family ticket for just £3 extra per child. Family ticket £25.

SATURDAY SHOWS & FAMILY SUNDAYS: Sat 13 Nov. Twinkle Twonkle TWINKLE TWONKLE One night Stella and her little brother wish on a magical star and climb all the way into space on a telescope.

Follow them on their adventure and find Pegasus the flying horse and a cow jumping over the moon. 4-7yrs.

Sat 20 Nov. THE NIGHT PIRATES Brave Tom peeps out of the window to find girl pirates stealing the front of his house. Join them on their daring quest across the high seas to Captain Patch’s island of treasure. 3-7yrs.

Sat 27 Nov. UPSTAIRS IN THE SKY Two delivery people arrive with a box addressed to the audience – a Make-It-Yourself Kit. Let your imagination reach for the sky as you help them tell their tale. 3-7yrs.

28 Nov. FAMILY SUNDAY: UPSTAIRS IN THE SKY 12noon & 2pm, then MESSY PLAY 1pm & 3pm.

CHRISTMAS SHOW: 2 Dec- 2 Jan. SNOW PLAY A delightful interactive new show all about playing in the snow. This magical wonderland will even give the audience the chance to get crafty and make your own festive treat. 2-7yrs.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Little Venice, Blomfield Road, London W9 2PF 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com £8.50/£10.

THE TEMPEST, by William Shakespeare. 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 Nov at 8pm and 7, 14, 21 at 3pm. With sculpted marionettes in wood and glass, beautiful lighting, specially composed music and the setting of the whole on a vessel, this show brings the audience in a magical and mysterious world which will not be forgotten. 10yrs+ CHRISTMAS SHOW: A CHRISTMAS CAROL, by Charles Dickens. 4/5, 11/12 Nov at 3pm. Daily 18 to 23 Dec at 3pm. Daily 27 Dec to 2 Jan at 3pm. Presented with marionettes and shadow puppets, special effects and dramatic lighting, this is an exciting and magical experience for the festive season. 4yrs+.

THE MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN 306 - 310 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd's Bush, London W12 7LJ 020 8932 2652 www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 12 Dec CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT A magical evening set under Bush Hall’s glittering chandeliers. Enjoy performances, carol singing, mince pies and mulled wine.

Performances by students & teachers from The Music House.

Adults £6, Children £4, Under 1yrs £Free 20/21 Dec YOO HOO & THE ICY WIND – UNDER 5'S SHOW 11am & 2pm. Join Yoo Hoo the Hedgehog and The Icy Wind on their adventures together. Adults £6, Children £4, Under 1yrs £Free 18

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

ZIPPOS BIG TOP AT HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND 0871 620 7064 www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com 8, 9 and10 Dec ROOM ON THE BROOM – From the creators of the Gruffalo. Shows at 11am and 3.30pm. £9.50. Based on the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, and devised by acclaimed children’s theatre company Tall Stories, this musical adaptation lovingly brings Room on the Broom from the page to the stage with songs, plenty of laughs and some ingenious puppetry. A magical, musical delight for children aged 3+

NATIONAL THEATRE South Bank, London SE1 9PX Info: 020 7452 3400 Box office: 020 7452 3000 9.30am-8pm Bkg online: www.nationaltheatre.org.uk CHRISTMAS SHOW: 1 Dec – 5 Jan. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Cottesloe Theatre) Exploding with music and magic, this lively production is suitable for girls and boys aged 8 and up.

SOUTHBANK CENTRE Southbank centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX 0844 875 0073 www.southbankcentre.co.uk

YOUNG VIC THEATRE 66, The Cut, London SE1 8LZ 020 7922 2922 www.youngvic.org CHRISTMAS SHOW: 25 Nov-1 Jan 2011.

MY DAD’S A BIRDMAN An uplifting tale by David Almond, author of the Carnegie Medal Award-winning Skellig.

The Great Human Bird Competition is coming to town! Lizzie and Jackie have My Dad's a Birdman been building their nest and are preparing for take off. Will the dynamic father and daughter duo get a chance to fly, or will sums, dumplings and headmasters get in their way? 4-7yrs.

AMBASSADORS THEATRE West Street, London WC2H 9ND 08848 11 23 34 www.theambassadorstheatre.co.uk CHRISTMAS SHOW: 7-24 Dec. THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS A unique experience combining a live Christmas show with traditional “grotto” experience where children can meet Father Christmas and receive a special gift. A festive treat for parents and children alike! 2-7yrs. £10/£12.50/£15. Parents can bring their own camera!

The Night Before Christmas

QUEEN ELIZABETH HALL: 16 Dec-1 Jan. HANSEL AND GRETEL Head down to the forest this Christmas as Kneehigh Theatre leads you through a spellbinding world of wit and wonder, earthly delights and eerie woods. £15 to £27.50.

ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL: 20 Dec-30 Dec. PETER AND THE WOLF LIVE Based on one of the most popular pieces of classical music for children, this show is a magical theatrical experience for the whole family. With live performance from the Philharmonic Orchestra. £14 to £50.

GARRICK THEATRE

RIVERSIDE STUDIOS

Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0HH 0844 412 4662 www.gruffalolive.com

UNICORN THEATRE

24 Nov-16 Jan THE GRUFFALO A musical adaptation The Gruffalo of the book by Julia Donaldson and Alex Scheffler. Follow the quick-thinking Mouse into the deep, dark wood in this magical and musical modern classic. Discover what happens when he © Axel Scheffler comes face to face with wheeler-dealer Fox, an eccentric old Owl and a maraca-shaking Snake, and, of course the very creature he imagined….. the Gruffalo! £12/£15

147 Tooley Street, Southwark, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com

CADOGAN HALL

Crisp Road, Hammersmith, London W6 9RL 020 8237 2010 www.riversidestudios.co.uk 4 & 5 Dec. W11 OPERA FOR YOUNG PEOPLE presents RAIN DANCE A crisis faces the animals of the African savannah. Their waterhole is almost dry and a leader is desperately needed to find a solution before they are wiped out. A witty and sometimes outrageous tale of animal rivalry. W11 Opera for Young People casts only school-age singers for each new opera it commissions every year. Entirely professionally produced, the performances are a stunningly unusual musical event. £15. 5yrs+.

4 Dec-2 Jan. MOLE IN THE HOLE Meet the Mole Family in their cosy, underground home, lined with straw and strewn with sweet-smelling herbs. This is a messy adventure for all the senses to be enjoyed by all children from 3 to 6, their families and friends. Everyone will be asked to muck in, so please don’t wear your best outfit! £8/£10.50, family £30.

CHRISTMAS SHOW: 4 Dec-23 Jan. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Writer Phil Porter returns to the Unicorn with a brand new version of the classic story, containing magic, music, and moments to make your hair stand on end. 7yrs+ £13/£19, family £54.

5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X 9DQ 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com 30 Nov-18 Dec WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury, brought vividly and noisily to the stage. Join the intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure – plus a few special surprises! £10 November – December 2010

More Christmas Shows…

CRITERION THEATRE 218-223 Piccadilly Circus, London W1V 9LB 0844 847 1778 www.criterion-theatre.com or www.peggapiglive.com 30 Nov-2 Jan. PEGGA PIG’S PARTY West End Premiere for the porcine favourite.

ROYAL COURT THEATRE Sloane Square, London SW1W 8AS 020 7565 5000 www.royalcourttheatre.com 1 Dec-15 Jan. GET SANTA! What Holly ever wanted from Santa is to meet her real Dad for the first time. And every time, Santa’s failed to deliver, bringing lots of useless presents instead. This year she decided to wait up and trap Santa. A magical, musical and downright mischievous Christmas show with a fresh moral. £8 to £25. 7yrs+.

PEACOCK THEATRE Portugal Street, London WC2A 0337 0870 737 0337 /0844 847 1707 www.sadlerswell.com 1 Dec-9 Jan. THE SNOWMAN Stage adaptation of Raymond Brigg’s classic Christmas Tale. A magical night out. £12 to £32.

BLOOMSBURY THEATRE 15 Gordon Street, London WC1H 0AH 020 7388 8822 www.thebloomsbury.com 14 Dec-23 Jan. GEORGE’S MARVELLOUS MEDICINE Adapted from Roald Dahl’s amazing story.

If you’re looking for fun and wizzpopping magic for all the family, then don’t miss the show! £16.50/£19.50, family £64.

BARBICAN Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS 020 7638 8891 www.barbican.org.uk/theatre 15 Dec-2 Jan. FLYBOY IS ALONE AGAIN THIS CHRISTMAS Beguiling west-country artist and musician Matthew Robins performs episodes from his series of handcrafted lounge folklore, as well as new material. Stories, songs, shadow puppets and live band. £15. 8yrs+.

Ballet…

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE Bow Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9DD 020 7304 4000 www.rho.org.uk 20 Nov-31 Dec. CINDERELLA The perfect way to enjoy some of the world’s greatest dancers bringing ballet to life. £16 to £110.

SADLER’S WELL Rosebury Avenue, London EC1R 4TN 0844 412 4300 www.sadlerswells.com 30 Nov-23 Jan. MATTHEW BOURNE’S CINDERELLA See acclaimed director Matthew Bourne’s wartime adaptation of the classic hit Cinderella. From £10.

LONDON COLISEUM 33 St Martin Lane, London WC2N 4ES 020 7836 0111/ 0871 911 0200 www.eno.org or www.ballet.org.uk 10 Dec-30 Dec. THE NUTCRACKER New production by ENB Artistic Director Wayne Eagling, to celebrate the Company’s 60th birthday. This classical production promises to be a magical, memorable and unmissable Christmas treat. £10 to £65.

November – December 2010

Pantomimes HEOS Greenford Hall, Ruislip Road, London UB6 9QN 07758 841523 www.heos.org.uk, 29 and 30 Dec PUSS IN BOOTS 2.30 and 6.30pm each day. A traditional family pantomime. Jack, the miller‘s son, has been left the family cat in his father‘s will. Puss tries to help Jack attain his ambition to marry the beautiful Princess, But first they have to contend with a jealous suitor, a pair of dastardly henchmen, and an Ogre! £9 or £11, concessions £6 or £8

Dick Whittington

THE LYRIC HAMMERSMITH THEATRE HEATRE Lyric Square, King Street, London W6 0OL 0871 22 117 20 www.lyric.co.uk 27 Nov-8 Jan. DICK WHITTINGTON Pantomime for all the family.

RICHMOND THEATRE E The Green, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7615 www.ambassadortickets.com 10 Dec-16 Jan. THE SLEEPING BEAUTY With Brian Blessed. Show-stopping songs and dance, larger than life characters, colourful costumes and spectacular sparkling set.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1QG 0844 871 7646 www.ambassadortickets.com/wimbledon don

Vole in the Woods

w set 17 Dec- 16 Jan. PETER PAN With brand new costumes, amazing special effects and beautiful singing and dancing.

LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth Walk, Barnes, London SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk/london 18 Dec-21 Dec. VOLE IN THE WOODS Family fun with this wildlife-themed pantomime

THE ARTS CENTRE 6-7 Great Newport Street, London WC2 7JB 020 7492 1593 www.artstheatrewestend.com 17 Nov- 16 Jan. PUSS IN BOOTS A panto taking a magical journey to fairyland to meet Puss in Boots and all her friends.

HARROW ART CENTRE Uxbridge Road, Hatch End, Middlesex HA5 4EA 020 8416 8989 www.harrowarts.com 18 Dec-22 Dec. ALADDIN A panto classic brought to life by talented local people.

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since our press deadline.

NEW PLAYERS THEATRE The Arches, Villiers Street, London WC2N 6NG 020 7930 5868 www.newplayerstheatre.com/london 28 Dec-8 Jan. ANASTASIA Join Dimitri, his outrageous mum Olga, The Grand Duchess, but beware of Rasputin.

THE BECK THEATRE Grange road, Hayes, Middlesex UB3 2UE. 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk 11 Dec-2 Jan. SLEEPING BEAUTY Pantomime for all the family.

THE SHAW THEATRE 100-110 Euston Road, London NW1 2AJ 0844 248 5075 www.shaw-theatre.com 13 Dec-3 Jan. SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS A rags-to riches pantomime full of surprises.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

19

Put the phone down while you talk to your kids!

By David Shaw

One of the worst aspects of modern life is that we, as parents, do not always put down our phones, Blackberries and iPads when we talk to our children.

T

his teaches them something. First, that we care more about our phones than we do about them and second, that it is OK to be on a screen all the time. At least, that's what Richard Watson, author of a new book, Future Minds claims His main argument is that we need more time to develop deep thinking. We need downtime for our natural creativity to emerge and we need to switch the phones off, to re-build family life.

It's not just phones. Those of us with teenage boys will see them move from phone to Xbox to DSi to computer and back to their phone, spending hours at a time looking at a screen.

Girls are no better: just different, using the computer to check the latest gossip on Facebook while simultaneously texting their friends. Or, increasingly, using the phone for both.

According to Richard, all this technology means, “We are getting better at thinking faster. We can make very quick decisions and we are getting increasingly adept at finding relevant information to support those decisions.”

According to Richard, this and other aspects of the digital age are all good.

Take time to think and reflect “The bad stuff,” he said, “is that I think we are losing the bigger picture; the ability to concentrate; to focus, to reflect and to do what I call deep thinking, which I think is the heart of scientific and artistic creativity.”

Another aspect of this, he said, is that we have moved in the space of a generation away from it being commonplace for a child to leave the house, play in the park, climb a few trees and fall into the local pond and not return until dusk.

Instead, most parents now do not let their children out of sight. Whether that is caused by fear of stranger danger, or concern about traffic levels, the result is that children are being kept indoors, where the parents think it is safer .

Not only does this encourage the children to spend time in front of screens, but most of the activities available to them are based on predetermined set of rules.

When we were younger, we could make up the rules as we went along. We could create fantasy games or make shapes out of clouds or change the rules if they did not suit the situation.

Today's generation, taking entertainment from the TV or a computer game have less freedom in this respect.

Richard noted, “That is what worries me about the generation we are bringing up now. We are putting them down these rails.”

Go out and kick a ball with your children It is difficult, he agreed, with parents trying to hold down a job or possibly two, “but you have to set some rules; set some boundaries and I know it is easy to stick a video on and get some free childcare, but actually you should be out there kicking a ball. Get involved. Otherwise do not complain that they are not talking to you when they turn 18.”

A second, and no less damaging aspect of the Facebook generation, said Richard, is that the consequences of making a mistake can be far-reaching.

When everyone is connected and every child carries a camera in their hand, a stupid playground mistake might be uploaded to Youtube that evening, and by the next morning every classmate has seen it and commented on it and ridiculed the poor victim.

Children have committed suicide over this kind of incident, and even if suicide is not the outcome, self-esteem becomes the victim.

This, said Richard, makes children more riskaverse than previous generations.

They are all connected all of the time The thing, said Richard, “that marks out the sub20 generation from everyone else is that they have grown up with this rapid technological change. They are connected. All their friends are connected and that network circulates information which competes with the information they hear from parents and teachers.”

“Parents and teachers are losing the battle,” he said, adding that, “If you think of allowing a 14-year old full, uncensored access to the internet, that is quite a scary thought. You would never do that with a television or video games.”

A parent who gives a smartphone (such as an iPhone) to a 13-year old son should think how he will use it, said Richard, “I think there is a reasonable chance he will search for porn.”

My absolute critical point, he added, “is the fact that we have created this stuff which is fabulous on one level, but it has the potential to destroy the things which we value the most and that is human relationships and our sense of self.”

This disconnect begins from the very earliest days. Most babies in the 1960s and 70s were transported in old-fashioned prams. Nowadays we have forward-facing buggies. The difference is that those old-fashioned prams have the child facing the adult, permitting conversations and eye contact, whereas buggies do not.

It continues into childhood where too-busy parents use the TV or games console or computer as a surrogate childcare.

At meal times, we do not sit down together and talk about the day; we use text messages and emails to communicate the basic information, but do not spend the time to talk and think.

It continues in the workplace and in shops, where increasingly we shop online or by using computer screens to remove the human contact from the process of shopping and banking.

We need to re-discover the time and space to properly think about our lives and other issues...

Advice from the author •

• • •

• •

• •

When parents come home they switch off mobiles and spend time with their families.

If you are collecting your child from school. Switch the phone off.

When you go on holiday, don't take the office with you.

Remove screens from children on car journeys and let them stare out the window instead.

Limit screen time for children If you have something to say, make time to say it face to face, not by text or email.

Remove TV sets games consoles and computers from childrens' bedrooms.

Serendipity is good.

Future Minds, by Richard Watson, 224 pp is published by Nicholas Brealey Publishing ISBN: 9781857885491 RRP 12.99 20

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

November – December 2010

November – December 2010

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

21

Education

Ravenstone Day Nursery and Nursery School in Marble Arch, situated two hundred metres from Hyde Park. We take children from ten months to five years.

For further information or to make an appointment to view the school, please telephone (020) 7262 1190 or email admissions@ravenstoneschoolslondon.com THE LONG GARDEN, ST GEORGE’S FIELDS, ALBION STREET, LONDON W2 2AX www.ravenstoneschoolslondon.com 22

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

November – December 2010

Education Our enterprising children A new business has been launched to enable primary school children to set up and run a healthy tuck shop in their own school.

Fruit to Suit, the healthier tuck shop company, has come up with the imaginative concept of a one-day Business and Enterprise Programme designed to train a young Tuck Shop Team to set up and run a healthier tuck shop. The training is divided into a series of workshops and fun activities: the Tuck Shop Challenge where the children set up their own company that will run the healthy tuck shop in their school, and Tuck Shop Manager Training, a half-day session for the children who will actually run the shop. The children are then taken through all the practicalities of running a tuck shop, from advertising to ordering stock, gaining invaluable business and enterprise skills. The benefits of a healthier tuck shop are innumerable – encouraging children to eat more fruit and vegetables and giving them the opportunity to try a wider variety of food, while being proactive in the prevention of excess weight and obesity. A fantastic, innovative idea.

To find out more about how this can be run in your school email info@fruittosuit.co.uk. www.fruittosuit.co.uk.

November – December 2010

Recycle at school A new recycling scheme aims to raise £5m for schools through collecting old mobile phones and empty printer cartridges.

750 schools have already signed up to Support Your School, a “cash for trash” scheme where schools receive £1 for every empty ink cartridge and £3 for unwanted mobile phones. Not only is this a great way to introduce pupils to the issues involved with recycling but it also raises much needed additional income for the schools involved. Launched by Britain’s best known vocal coaches, Carrie and David Grant from Fame Academy, the fundraising scheme will raise millions for schools as well as reducing by 10% the number of inkjet cartridges going to landfill.

Support Your School is free to participate in and encourages schoolteachers, pupils, parents and the community to get involved in recycling and reducing individual schools’ carbon footprint. According to recent figures from DEFRA, more than 35 million cartridges are disposed of in the UK each year and over 70% of these go straight into landfill where they take over 1000 years to decompose. “Support Your School is a great new scheme to teach children about the importance of recycling and how to achieve a more sustainable approach to the use of ink cartridges and mobiles,” say Carrie and David.

Go to www.supportyourschool.co.uk.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

23

Baby Page Many of us try to be as green as we can when it comes to our babies. We dress them in organic cotton babygrows, buy natural sheepskins and some of us even use real nappies. But how green really are we? Recently there has been a spate of publicity about the potentially harmful toxins in baby toys, nursery furniture and cot mattresses, so how possible is it to reduce these toxins and truly ‘green’ your baby’s nursery?

Part 1

Is your baby living in a toxic environment?

Raising an eco-friendly baby is not only safer for baby but also reduces the impact on the environment. Most of us already recycle, we try to reduce our carbon impact and are aware of wasteful packaging. We buy fair trade baby products wherever available and we choose organic, locally grown vegetables to reduce our baby’s exposure to toxins like mercury, lead, pesticides and arsenic.

And, whenever possible, we do our part to reduce air pollution and leave the car at home.

But is this enough? “I already buy organic clothing,” says Alison. “I breast feed my baby and I use real nappies. What more can I do?” The answer is, a lot more.

24

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

November – December 2010

The eco nursery

By Joanna Parry

Newborns can spend as much as 80% of the first part of their lives in their nursery, so it is important to make it as green and nontoxic as possible. In short, to create an eco nursery. The Nesting Project is a recent testing campaign that invited parents who had just decorated their babies’ rooms to put samplers in the nursery before sending them off for analysis. The results were surprising, even frightening: the lab picked up a number of pollutants including formaldehyde and other VOCs (substances emitted from everyday products and materials, including household chemicals, solvents, varnishes and paints) arising from newly laid flooring or carpet, soft furnishings, clothing, bedding, textiles and toys. It went on to explain the harmful effects of VOCs, of which symptoms can include eye, nose, throat and skin irritation and allergic reactions, nausea, headaches, dizziness and respiratory problems.

Knowing the exact extent to which the air in your newborn's nursery is polluted may be more information than you want, or need, to know. But there is no need to panic. There are many ways to detox a nursery, particularly if you're still at the renovation stage, and while some methods require more effort and cash, others are cheap and easy.

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Floor: As a general rule a hard floor is best, although bamboo and cork are also eco-friendly options. If you do want carpet, choose one made with natural fibers such as organic wool or cotton and check that it has not been treated with unnecessary chemicals or glues. Add natural wool rugs for softness and warmth.

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Walls: Choose low- or no-VOC paint and natural pigments made from ingredients such as milk casein, clay, bee's wax, and natural mineral dyes. Try www.earthbornpaints.co.uk for a wide range of colours. If you prefer wallpaper you can buy recycled or wood chip paper which is 'breathable' Earthborn Paint £23.96 for 2.5 Litres and doesn't have a negative impact on air quality. Use products made from recycled and reclaimed materials to decorate nursery walls. Lead paint is an age old problem, and some older houses may still have lead paint on the walls or window sills. If you are concerned about this get the professionals in, as stripping lead paint can release toxins.

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Curtains: Use natural materials such as wool, cotton, linen or silk. Wash and air the curtains before hanging them up as even natural fibres are treated with substances to make them moth resistant.

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Electrical: Remove Wi-Fi, cordless phones, mobiles and wireless baby monitors from the baby's room or better from the house altogether. Children are more susceptible to electromagnetic waves which can be very harmful to development, even leading to long-term illnesses and damage to the immune system.

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Open the window and let the fresh air in. Also, reduce unwanted chemicals and pathogens the free and easy way by bringing plants into your nursery. Particularly effective plants that remove toxic chemicals from the air are areca palm, lady palm, rubber plant, dragon plant, English ivy, peace lily, gerbera daisy, snake plant, spider plant and weeping fig.

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If you're pregnant let someone else renovate! It doesn’t matter how green the products you are using are, it is still safer to keep away from them until the paint has dried.

November – December 2010

Don’t forget to think green about what you put inside your nursery, too. Families reader Amy said “I was careful about what I put on my nursery walls, but I never stopped to think about the furniture.”

It’s true, most of us don’t. We assume anything and everything we buy for our nursery will naturally be safe.

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Even cots can be green. Some conventionally-made cribs in manufactured wood products like hardwood plywood paneling, particleboard and mid-density fiberboard are sources of VOCs and harmful flame retardants. Solid wood treated with non-toxic varnish, oil or wax is best. Avoid chipboard wood (made using formaldehyde) or furniture plastic or a plastic coating as they may contain harmful softeners.

A good example of an eco-crib is the adaptable Stokke Sleepi baby crib that easily converts into a toddler bed. Available from www.kiddisave.co.uk from £514.49.

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Mattress: Choose a mattress made from natural materials from suppliers such as www.abacaorganic.co.uk or www.greenbaby.com.

Many conventional mattresses use PVC as the mattress cover and foam treated with potentially toxic flame retardants as filling material. A better option is a mattress made from natural coir (coconut husk), hemp, organic cotton, natural rubber latex or organic wool, which is naturally fire resistant.

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Cot linen: It’s not just baby’s clothing that can be organic. Cot sheets, sleeping bags, blankets and towels are now available in 100% organic cotton. Don’t forget to wash all new Organic blankets from hellobabydirect.co.uk linens before use.

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Toys: Baby toys made from PVC plastic may contain phthalates, the suspected hormone-disruptors that have been linked to liver and kidney damage. Choose toys made of natural, non-toxic materials such as FSC wood, hemp and cotton, and check the manufacturer has used non-toxic dyes and natural oil finishes.

Helpful websites www.nrdc.org – for information on how to protect your home, health and the planet www.simplesteps.org www.theecologist.org www.projectnesting.org/start www.naturalnurseryblog.co.uk/ www.ehow.co.uk/video_2050064_design-functional-baby-nursery.html – for how to design a functional green nursery www.ecohouseagent.com/green-nursery.html

Suppliers Flooring – www.healthyflooring.org Walls – www.earthbornpaints.co.uk, www.MyLittleEco.co.uk/ecopaint Furniture – www.thegreenfamilia.co.uk, www.kiddisave.co.uk Mattresses – www.abacaorganic.co.uk, www.greenbaby.com Bathing products – www.greenbaby.com Eco-nursery products – www.hellobabydirect.co.uk Next month – Are you green enough for your baby? – Part 2.

Many ways to protect your baby from harmful chemicals and pollutants are free. We’ll find out how to be as green as you can while not spending a fortune.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Usha Patel from the Raviv Practice Learning Difficulties Practitioner talks about Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a condition where those with normal hearing constantly mishear what is said. Whilst APD is of neurological nature and it may be inherited or caused as a result of developmental problems, research has also shown that early childhood ear infections can be a significant contributory factor in causing it.

Children develop critical language skills between the ages of 6 months to 3 years. Language centres within the brain learn to map out sounds and store it for language processing. When a child starts reacting to words with a smile or start speaking its first words, it is effectively associating these sounds with meanings.

If, a child suffers from constant middle ear infection during the critical period, then the ability to process language/speech can be affected.

Sounds which normally become imprinted in the brains memory and language centres are not properly established. The mishearing happens because the brain recognises aural information differently to what they actually are. A good example is commonly found when children can't differentiate between thirteen and thirty. Whilst hearing can be perfectly normal their brain just can not process those sounds accurately due to their similarity.

This inability of the brain to process what is heard accurately results in the Auditory Processing Disorder condition.

APD is a often difficult to diagnose in children as they may have other learning difficulties such as dyslexia, attention deficit disorder, dyspraxia, which may mask the condition. It also cannot be established with standard hearing tests – It can only be diagnosed using specialist audiology testing.

Children with APD have also been observed to: • • • • • • • • 26

Have trouble paying attention to and remembering information presented orally Have problems carrying out multi-step directions Have poor listening skills Need more time to process information Have low academic performance Have behaviour problems Have language difficulty (e.g., they confuse syllable sequences and have problems developing vocabulary and understanding language) Have difficulty with reading, comprehension, spelling, and vocabulary

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

Without proper intervention, those with APD can find it confusing to interpret verbal information. This problem is further exacerbated when in a noisy environment or when there are competing sounds around them. In a class room situation, if the child is not at the front of the class room or paying full attention, distracting sounds can make learning incredibly challenging.

Some of the ways in which help for APD can be offered, as suggested by National Institutes of Health, are :• •

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Environmental modifications such as classroom acoustics, seating and placement.

Auditory memory enhancement, a procedure that reduces detailed information to a more basic representation, may help. Also, informal auditory training techniques can be used by teachers and therapists to address specific difficulties.

Exercises to improve language-building skills can increase the ability to learn new words and increase a child's language base.

The Raviv Practice London offers a dual approach to help children with this condition: First, Raviv Method, which is one-to-one motor-sensory therapy, is used for auditory memory enhancement. This therapy is neuro-cognitive and lays the foundation skills for learning taking around 20 weeks.

This is followed up by structured language programmes called FastForWord. FastForWord is a computer based self learning program based on 25 years of neurophysiological and behavioural research. These programmes help with identifying specific auditory processing problems and have tailored exercises to address these problems. Each of the programmes take around 8 - 12 weeks.

For more information on Auditory Processing Disorder, attend the FREE presentation on the 25th November in West London.

Book on-line at www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk or by calling Usha Patel on 07766 837 617.

November – December 2010

Classifieds Parties

Education

Services

Would you like to advertise in Families West?

Blueberry Playsongs Parties!

Wonderful musical parties for 1-6 year olds.

Contact us on

020 8677 6871

Please email adverts@familieswest.co.uk west co uk or phone 020 8930 4707 Don’t miss out on your copy of Families West!

Cupcakes These delightful little cakes are made to order.

Any colour any topping, Why not try a banoffe or a choca-mocha dream, even a vanilla and white chocolate delight, each little cake is topped with flavoured butter cream.

All occasions: Birthdays, Thank you, Baby shower, Hen parties.

And many more.

Special dietary cupcakes: Gluten and Wheat free, so you don’t have to miss out.

Prices start from £1.50.

Cupcake towers to hire with a £20 refundable deposit.

Please call Tiffany 07984 548857

Tiff’s Cupcake Heaven

November – December 2010

Volunteers

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! For £20.00 we will send the next 10 issues straight to your door. Please complete the form below and return it to us with your cheque made payable to: Families West.

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HOME-START EALING – Volunteers Needed We are a children’s charity and we train volunteers to help families with young children. Do you have experience as a parent? Could you spare 2 hours each week to support a family? We run Volunteer Preparation Courses throughout the year, so please call us on 0208 842 1617 to discuss further.

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

November – December 2010