1. Art and Diseño

Issue 98: Jan/Feb 2015
www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk
FREE
North West London
Including North Middlesex and
South Hertfordshire
(Queens Park, Wembley, Edgware, Stanmore,
Harrow, Northolt, Northwood, Watford and all the
areas in between)
NURSERIES
and Childcare
Tips to develop
your toddlers’
language
Independent
School Open
Days page 8
Family Health
Looking after your
Immune System page 14
Family Travel
page 17
What to expect
from your child’s
Nursery education
page 18
Childcare Quiz
page 19
Expert Advice! page 17
PLUS
Open Days, What’s On and much more inside!
Welcome to the
January/February issue!
CONTACT US:
Families North West
London Magazine
Editors:
Heather Waddington
and Janine Mergler
P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF
T: 01923 237 004
E: [email protected]
www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk
IN THIS ISSUE:
3 News and Views
7 What’s New
10 Education
www.facebook.com/
FamiliesNWLondon
15 Fencing for Fun!
16 Nursery and Childcare
@FamiliesNW
Circulation 30,000+ copies every issue.
Published seven times a year. For families
from birth to twelve.
26 What’s On
30 Parenting
UPCOMING ISSUE:
March/April 2015: Parties!
Deadline 30th January 2015
Send in your news, stories and advertising
bookings to the details left.
Front cover image:
Hannamariah/
Depositphotos.com
Trending articles on the FNWL website:
▲▲ Childcare Quiz
▲▲ What’s On Feb Half Term
▲▲ Fencing for young Children
▲▲ Family Health
2
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Scan our QR code
to take you straight
to the most current
local information!
www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk
News & Views from around North West London
Families Readers Offer
from Reading Eggs!
Full of educationally sound, fun and interactive activities, Reading Eggs focuses on
the most fundamental skill needed in school: reading. Children from 3 to 7 years of
age, or older children struggling with reading, will enjoy the huge variety of reading
lessons, activities and games that make up the Reading Eggs programme. Reading
Eggspress continues the reading adventure by taking children to a brand new world
designed for 7–13 year olds, focusing on comprehension and grammar. Sign up for a
special 4 WEEK FREE trial* and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by
using Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress.
Simply register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk/jan15nw Registration is quick,
easy and FREE!
*Free trial only available to new customers who sign up at the above address.
Not applicable for schools.
Explore Learning opens in Queensbury
The centre, located on South Parade, Mollison
Way, is the company’s 98th centre to open in
the UK and has created 20 new jobs in the area.
As well as English and maths tuition, Explore will
be offering courses in creative writing, creative
maths, eleven plus preparation, and succeed in
secondary.
They will also be working closely with local
schools, organising fun and interactive
workshops around their annual National Young
Writers’ and National Young Mathematicians’
Awards.
Parent interested in finding out more can
contact the team on 020 3714 7070 or email
[email protected]
Families NW London Magazine is distributed to over 30,000 families.
To advertise YOUR BUSINESS with us, call: 01923 237 004 email: [email protected]
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
3
News and Views
Aqua Style Swimming School
Launch New Private Swimming
Lessons in Colindale
Aqua Style Swimming School, established in 1993 with a large clientele in
Bushey and Northwood will be conducting new private swimming lessons
starting in January 2015. The lessons run for 11 weeks and are for a range of
Junior, Baby, Adult and Ladies-Only courses with a variety of ability levels.
Beginner groups are 4 swimmers to a teacher for both children and adults at
£7.50/lesson. You can also book One to One lessons for £20.00 or Two to One
for £12.00 as well as Parent and Baby £8.00 a lesson.
With a wealth of experience their teachers are qualified, patient and trained
in life saving. The venue is the beautiful, warm, new pool, at Colindale Primary
School on Clovelly Avenue off Colindeep Lane.
Currently lessons are offered on Saturday morning and after school on
Wednesday. Contact www.AquaSwim.org or phone 0208 204 7925
The Ultimate Sleepover Party –
New for 2015
If you’re faced with the dreaded sleepover demands from your child, help is at
hand with a Wildchild Bell Tent Sleepover Party! Wildchild will set your bell tent
up in your garden on the Friday (sleeping up to 6 children), and provide you with
everything needed for a fantastic camping sleepover experience, from air beds to
fairy lights, marshmallows and even activity ideas. On Sunday after the fun is over,
Wildchild will dismantle and remove the tent – an easy, hassle-free way to score
you sleepover brownie points while keeping your home clean and quiet!
For more information and to book your Wildchild Sleepover Party visit www.
wildchildactivities.com/parties/birthday-party-sleepover or call 0845 3717099.
Introducing… Breakfast
Bears and Tea Time
Teddies at
Aldenham
Prep
Nursery
School
Always looking to improve
and build on their success
Mrs Gocher, Head of
Aldenham Prep School has
announced two changes to
the Nursery. To meet the
changing needs of parents
the Nursery day has been extended. The
Nursery children can now attend ‘Breakfast Bears’ and ‘Tea
Time Teddies’, enjoying all the care and fun that is available,
from 8.00am to 5.15pm. The change has been welcomed by
existing parents as well as leading to longer registration lists
for the upcoming intakes. As well, French is now part of the
curriculum for all the children.
www.activetime.co.uk
4
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Small class sizes and expert teaching from an early age
ensure that academic attainment at Aldenham is high, but
there is more to education than academia; sport, arts, drama,
music, extra-curricular activities, school trips are all part of an
Aldenham child’s education.
The next Open Morning is on Saturday 13th June, 10.00am
to 12.30pm or call 01923 851664 to arrange a visit.
News and Views
New Year - New Start?
Tumble Tots are looking for a new
franchise owner in your area!
Tumble Tots, has been operating a successful Franchise Network since
1979. If you’re interested in becoming your own boss and helping children
develop and have fun, then this business opportunity could be for you!
If you would like to find out more please
call 0121 585 7003 or email [email protected]
New Year – New Job?
Hatch End 11+ is looking for Tutors
Hatch End 11+, in Pinner, provide lessons in small tuition groups for Year 4 and 5
children to prepare them for the Entrance Examinations for secondary school.
Following an increasing demand for tuition they are looking to recruit qualified
teachers to teach lessons after school and at weekends. To support their teachers
they are also looking for a classroom assistant to help the children within the
classroom and ensure they are collected safely after their lesson. Ideally you will
have some experience and be able to embrace their kind and caring ethos. If you
are interested they would love to hear from you.
Please send CV to [email protected] or call 077 3990 3144 for details.
Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2),
Harrow on the Hill and Watford
call: 0208 123 9346
email: [email protected]
Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green,
Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet
call: 0208 201 1084
email: [email protected]
Harrow (HA3), North Wembley and Bushey
call: 0208 422 0676
email: [email protected]
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
5
News and Views
The Great
British
Brekkie
Winston’s Wish is calling out across
the country for families, friends,
colleagues and classmates to join them
and help raise £50,000 to support bereaved
children by hosting a charity breakfast in February 2015.
From the 9th–15th February, Winston’s Wish is asking everyone to
make their morning special and revive the tradition of the Great
British Breakfast! This can be anything from a sturdy full English, to
a good old cuppa and toast, to a fancy continental dish.
A glittering list of celebrities is already backing the campaign,
and over the coming weeks more star names will be sharing their
favourite breakfast recipes. Some of the egg-xtraordinary star
supporters enlisted so far includes Dame Judi Dench, Sol Campbell,
Ruby Wax, Rachel Khoo, Jenny Eclair and Richard and Judy.
Many more will be revealed in the lead-up to ‘brekkie’ week in
February.
To support the campaign the Great British Brekkie website has
been revamped to include sample ‘brekkie’ recipes, a gallery of
supporters’ photos and videos, an interactive ‘brekkie’ map and
online registration:
www.greatbritishbrekkie.org.uk
µ
µµ
ENR
O
NOW L
!
6
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Always Tired?
We all know what it’s like to feel physically and
mentally exhausted from a busy day at work of
with the kids and coping with everything can be
an everyday battle.
Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality
capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and
restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken
for a period of twelve weeks?
Pharmaton Vitality capsules are packed with
vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115
that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also
aid in mental and physical wellbeing. Pharmaton
Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30
clinical trials and studies.
Try Pharmaton Vitality capsules to feel the positive
difference.
(Licensed medicine) For the relief of fatigue.
*editorial supplied. Always read the label.
What’s New
From Porridge to
Pudding - Family
Friendly Chia Products!
The Chia Co have launched some healthy breakfasts that
provide a nutritious start to the day for all the family.
Adding chia seeds to your child’s diet ensures they get
the highest combined plant-based source of Omega
3, fibre, protein, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals,
helping to keep them feeling fuller for longer, whilst
aiding tissue growth and repair. They are also virtually tasteless so even fussy eaters can’t
complain! Chia Pods - a nutritious, ready-to-eat breakfast containing chia seeds, coconut milk
and fruit. Each pod comes with a spoon in the lids so it’s quick and easy to eat. They are vegan,
diary-free and gluten-free.
Available in Mango, Vanilla, Blueberry and Banana from Tesco stores nationwide and selected
Waitrose stores. Oats+Chia – just-add-hot-water single serve sachets that contain wholegrain
oats and sun-ripened chia blended with real fruit and virgin coconut oil. Available in Mixed
Berry, Apply Spice and Banana and Mango from Ocado.
BrightStart Vitamin D drops
for infants
BrightStart is a new Vitamin D3 for infants that comes in an easy
to take sugar-free, orange flavoured liquid formula. It ensures
that your child gets their RDA of Vitamin D, contributing to
bone development, normal function of the immune system and
muscles and maintaining healthy teeth. One serving provides
400iu of Vitamin D combined with Vitamins A, E and DHA.
Suitable for children aged 1 to 5 years and vegetarian friendly.
RRP £7.99 www.questexcellence.com
Minecraft®
addicts rejoice!
A new and exciting project book is here to make your
Minecraft® adventure come to life. Author Choly Knight
shows you how to quickly make real life versions of
all your favourite Minecraft® characters and game
elements, using only a few basic craft supplies! The
pixelated graphics are perfect for so many different
kinds of crafts, each given a difficulty rating. This
fun book contains 15 step-by-step projects for perler
beads, duct tape, paper crafting, painting, sewing, and
crocheting. So get in ‘creative mode’ and celebrate the
limitless possibilities of Minecraft®! Age Range 12+
RRP £5.99 • ISBN 9781574219661
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
7
Independent School Open Days
Please check school websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days. Listings are subject to change.
8
Aldenham School Elstree WD6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs (Boarding/
Day) [email protected]
Open Day: Saturday 13 June 2015 10am -12.30pm - Prep
School 01923 851664. Senior School 01923 858122
Avanti House School Stanmore HA7. Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs.
www.avanti.org.uk
Open Day: By appointment. 020 8249 6830
Buxlow Preparatory School Wembley HA9 7QJ
Boys and Girls 4 - 11yrs (Day) www.buxlowschool.org.uk
Open Morning: Fri 16 Jan, Fri 30 Jan 10:30am-12:30pm.
020 89043615
Buckingham College Preparatory School Pinner HA5 Boys School
4-11 years www.buckprep.org
Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 2737.
Charlotte House Preparatory School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3.
Girls 3+-11yrs. www.charlottehouseprepschool.co.uk
Open Day: Thu 5 Mar, Sat 7 Mar, Thu 7 May, Sat 9 May, all
9.30-11.30am. 01923 772101
Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Elstree WD6
Boys 5-18 yrs. www.habsboys.org.uk
Open Day: By appointment. 020 8266 1700
Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School Elstree WD6
Girls 4-18 yrs. www.habsgirls.org.uk
Open Day: By appointment. 020 8266 2302 email ldevine@
habsgirls.org.uk
High Elms Manor School Watford WD25, Boys and Girls 6 months –
11 years. www.highelmsmanorschool.com
Open Day: By appointment. 01923 681103
The John Lyon School Harrow on the Hill HA2. Boys 11-18 yrs.
www.johnlyon.org
Open Day: By appointment. 020 8515 9400
Krishna Avanti Primary School Edgware HA8. Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs.
www.avanti.org.uk/kapsharrow
Open Day: By appointment. 020 8381 3344
Merchant Taylor’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 11-18yrs
www.mtsn.org.uk
Open Day: Sat 9 May 2015, 10am-12.30pm. To make an
appointment for a school tour at an alternative time call 01923
845514
North London Collegiate School Edgeware HA8 Girls 4-18yrs.
www.nlcs.org.uk
Open Day: By appointment. Jun Sch 020 8952 1276, Sen Sch
020 8951 6481/6468.
Northwood College Northwood HA6. Girls 3-18 yrs.
www.northwoodcollege.co.uk
Open Day: Fri 27 Feb, Wed 6 May, 9.30am. Bluebelle House
(nursery & Rcptn) Fri 6 Feb, Fri 15 May, 9.30-11am. 01923
825446.
Northwood Preparatory School Rickmansworth WD3 Boys 4-13.
www.northwoodprep.co.uk
Open Morning: Fri 9 Oct 2015. 01923 825648.
Orley Farm Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 Boys and Girls 4-13yr
www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk
Open Day: Sat 9 May, 10am-12pm. 020 8869 7634/7600
Reddiford School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9months – 11 yrs.
www.reddiford.org.uk
Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 0660
Roxeth Mead School HA2 Boys & Girls 3-7yrs. www.roxethmead.com
Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092
Rudolf Steiner School Kings Langley WD4. Boys and Girls 0-18. www.
rsskl.org
Open Day: Fri 23 Jan, 8.45am-12.15pm. 01923 262 505
The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3 – Ruspini
House Pre School (boys and girls aged 2-4) Cadogan House Pre-Prep
and Prep Department (girls aged 4-11), Senior School (girls aged 11-18)
Open Day: By appointment. 01923 725354
Stanborough School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 4-18yrs.
Boarding/Day. www.spsch.org
Open Day: By appointment 01923 673268
St Christopher’s School, Wembley HA9 8HE Boys & Girls 4 – 11 years
(day) [email protected]
Open Morning: Friday 16 Jan 10am-12pm. 020 8902 5069
St Helen’s School Northwood HA6. Girls, 3-18 yrs. www.sthn.co.uk
Open Day: Wed 17 Jun, 9.30am-12pm. 01923 843230
St Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs.
www.sthildasbushey.co.uk
Open Day: By appointment. 0208 950 1751
St John’s School Northwood HA6 Boys aged 3-13.
www.st-johns.org.uk
Open Day: Wed 20 May, 9.15-11.15am. 020 8866 0067
St. Margaret’s School Bushey WD23 Girls 4-18 yrs
(boarding/day) www.stmargaretsbushey.org.uk
Open Day: Thu 26 Feb, Thu 7 May, 9.30am-12pm.
020 8901 0872
St. Martin’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 3-13 yrs
www.stmartins.org.uk
Open Day: Fri 27 Feb; Fri 5 Jun; Sat 6 Jun, all 10am-12pm
10am-12pm. 01923 825 740
St Nicholas Prep School and Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PN 3mths – 11
yrs. www.stnicholasschool.org.uk; www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk
Open Day: Fri 9th Jan, Fri 6th Feb, Fri 6th Mar 020 8205 7153
York House Rickmansworth WD3. Boys and Girls 3-13 yrs
www.york-house.com
Open Day: Sat 14 Mar; Sat 16 May; 9.30am-12pm.
01923 772 395
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Education
First Class Learning
Are you looking for dynamic and effective tuition?
National Programme supported by Professional Educationalists and the Dyspraxia Foundation
Helping Children Succeed in
Maths and English
4 Courses based on National Curriculum
4 Improves confidence and encourages
enjoyment in learning
4 Suitable for all ages & abilities
4 Helps with school assessment & exams
4 Tailored to suit individual needs
Colindale Eastcote Harrow Kenton Harrow Town Kingsbury Northwood Pinner
Sudbury Wembley 020 8205 9831
01923 593 252
020 8537 9470
0208 933 7019
020 8205 9831
07802 433 994
01923 593 252
01895 673 114
020 8958 8363
www.firstclasslearning.co.uk
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
9
Education
11+ Exams –
the right
choice
for YOUR
child?
By Lorrae Jaderberg and Katie Krais
How do you know if your child would pass
the state selective secondary 11+ exams
and then be happy at school?
Y
ou should ask for their current
and predicted national
curriculum levels in maths
and English at school. Better
still, have an independent assessment to
measure not only current achievement, but
academic future potential as well.
How bright does your child need
to be to gain a place at a state
selective secondary school?
They need high level reasoning
ability, to solve complex multi-tiered
problems quickly and accurately. They
need high level maths and English, to
be able to work quickly and accurately
in both subjects. One parent’s idea of
‘high level’ may be quite different to
another’s, and similarly being on the
‘top table’ in one primary school for
maths and English, may not equate with
another primary school; it will depend
on the cohort of children in the year
group.
One parent’s
idea of ‘high
level’ may be
quite different
to another’s
Families North West
London Magazine is
distributed to over
30,000 families!
To advertise
YOUR BUSINESS
with us, call:
01923 237 004
email:
Editor@
FamiliesNWLondon.
co.uk
10
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Education
Imagine a child who hasn’t been
assessed, but is achieving well in school
due to hours of practice and years of
individual tutoring, keeping up this level
of achievement. This child is bright,
naturally above average, in the lower
end of the top 25% of children, rather
than the top 5%.
As the exams approach, his
levels stay much the same. The ‘lack
of progress’ eats at his confidence,
creating despair, panic and sense
of failure in the student, and some
bewilderment for the parents, as they
struggle to understand why their child
isn’t doing better after all this input.
“Your child’s happiness
has to be the most
important factor”
So the question for parents is not
just which schools to choose, but also
how do you know if your child would be
successful long term with this choice?
Would they be happy, thrive and flourish
long term, would this environment be as
near to perfect for them as possible?
Your child’s happiness has to be the
most important factor.
In the end both will sit the same
GCSEs and A Levels and have the
same opportunities to go to the same
universities. Providing the teaching in
a school is excellent, and the personal
aspirations of the student are realistic
as
and ambitious, your child should fulfil
their potential, whichever school they
attend.
With your realism, support and
belief behind them, they will always be
a winner.
Jaderberg Krais offer educational
advice, assessments and tutoring for all
children, including the 11+.
If you would like more information
contact Lorrae Jaderberg and Katie
Krais on: 020 3488 0754 at www.
jaderbergkrais.co.uk
ith
sw
FLYING COLOU
RS
a
t
P
The bright child finds maths and
English relatively easy. They are likely
to pass the assessment and have some
regular tutoring before the exams
as they are demanding and tutoring
preparation makes it less stressful
for the child and their parents. It also
ensures thorough coverage of the
required maths and English curriculum
to be tested in September, Year 6. The
Year 5 curriculum not have covered
the required areas to be examined in
sufficient range or depth. Verbal and
non-verbal reasoning strategies may
also be needed, similarly mathematical
reasoning strategies and words in
context.
Building Confidence
Achieving Excellence
NEW 11+ CLASSES
in CANNON LANE, PINNER HA5
starting January 2015 for Years 4 & 5
•Established and successful tuition centre
•Excellent results
•Qualified and experienced teachers
Mock Entrance Exams
at Watford Grammar School for Girls
March through to August 2015
Details at: www.hatchend11plus.co.uk
Email to: [email protected]
Tel: 020 8421 3066
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
11
Education News
5 year-old boys are still catching up
with girls in literacy and numeracy
According to teachers’ assessment of children’s progress
at the end of the Early Years Foundation Stage last year,
there is still a gender divide in pupil’s attainment. The level
of development for all 5-year-olds was up by 8 percentage
points from last year to 60%. In 2013-2014, fewer boys
than girls met the expected levels in writing, reading and
maths - 69% of five-year-old girls achieved a good level of
development overall, compared with only 52% of boys. Further reading: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/
education-29651924
Prepared by Sarah Hunter
Primary schools
to provide nursery places
Childcare Minister, Sam Gyimah, is encouraging more primary and infant schools to offer nursery education. Currently
44% of primary and infant schools in England offer nursery
places, with only a few hundred taking 2-year-olds.
In a speech to the Policy Exchange, the minister claimed
that: “those schools who do offer nursery provision are seeing
some big benefits. Children’s behaviour and attainment
improves, schools get to know children and their parents
earlier on, offering them the tailored support they need,
sooner.”
Further reading: http://news.tes.co.uk/b/news/2014/10/21/
minister-calls-for-more-primaries-to-39-step-up-to-the-plate39-and-offer-nursery-places.aspx
12
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Over-praising pupils
can lead to low attainment
A recent report by the Sutton Trust, ‘What Makes Great
Teaching’, claims that lavishing praise on low-attaining
students is not encouraging, but can in fact give a message
of low expectations. Other commonly used teaching
methods, such as streaming by ability, are shown to have little
positive effect.
Professor Robert Coe, from Durham University said:
“Great teaching cannot be achieved by following a recipe, but
there are some clear pointers in the research to approaches
that are most likely to be effective, and to others, sometimes
quite popular, that are not.”
Further reading: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/
educationopinion/11204935/What-really-makes-greatteaching.html
Education
St Nicholas
Preparatory School – founded 1937
NW London (Kingsbury/Wembley)
St. Christopher’s School
Wembley Park
An independent day school for boys and girls from 3-11.
www.stnicholasschool.org.uk
We provide private education at a competitive price.
•Newly refurbished (Summer 2014)
•Small classes and bright, airy classrooms
•Great results in 11+ examinations
•A caring, nurturing environment with
a family atmosphere
•After-school care and clubs
•Active PTA
Address: 22 Salmon Street, Kingsbury, NW9 8PN
E: [email protected]
Tel: 020 8205 7153
•Boys and girls 4 – 11 years
•High academic achievement
•Caring environment
•Strong musical emphasis
•Numerous educational outings
•4 scholarships in 11+entry exams 2014
OPEN MORNING
Friday 16th January 2015, 10am – 12 noon
No appointment necessary.
St Christopher’s School
71 Wembley Park Drive, Middlesex HA9 8HE
Tel: 0208 902 5069
Visit our website http://stchristophersschool.org.uk
BUXLOW
Preparatory School
Established in Wembley in 1927
OPEN MORNING Friday 30th January 2015
10am – 12 noon No appointment necessary
• A broad and balanced education within
a happy caring environment
• Small classes allowing the recognition and
development of full academic potential
• The opportunity to achieve success in
music, drama and sport
• An excellent record of 11+ results and scholarships
• An active and supportive PTA
For further information call 020 89043615
or email [email protected]
www.buxlowschool.org.uk
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
13
Family Health
BOOSTING IMMUNITY
in the winter months
By Sabera Chowdhury
We all seem much more prone to colds and
flu at this time of year. With the change of
season, the drop in temperature and less
daylight hours, here are a few suggestions
to keep you and the whole family well.
Light Matters
Reduced daylight has been clinically shown
to dramatically affect mood as it can cause
a drop in brain serotonin levels, a chemical
that maintains good mood balance. Natural
light keeps all our body functions working in
balance, so to stay well in this season when
less light is available, try to be up at dawn
a few times a week if possible, as some
studies have shown that exposure to early
morning light for as little as 10-15mins can
greatly improve immune function.
Nutrition
Sugar is probably the number one culprit
that compromises our ability to stave off
colds and flu. It stresses the whole body
and weakens our ability to fight infection
and clear out harmful toxins from the ear,
nose, throat and bloodstream. Try to wean
off sugar during the winter months by using
other alternatives like honey or xylitol and
dried fruits, and also reduce fizzy drinks
14
and juices made from concentrate. Adding
a generous dash of cinnamon powder to
porridge and smoothies can reduce sugar
craving and also improve insulin response
(without which we tend to gain more belly
fat as we get older).
Prevention
Prevention is always better than cure. With
the contrast in temperatures between our
heated homes and the outside chill, wrap up
warm before stepping outside so you don’t
get too exposed. Wearing layers of clothing
and thermals or silk when especially cold
can help regulate body temperature. With
youngsters or children prone to catching
colds, coughs and ear infections, dress them
in an extra cotton vest or T-shirt underneath
so the chest is kept warm and equip them
with a good woolly hat and scarf for extra
protection.
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Sleep
Last but not least, regular sleep is so
important as a foundation for maintaining
a healthy immune system, as it’s the time
when the body has a chance to repair itself
on all levels. It’s not a coincidence that
many animals hibernate in winter to survive.
If you can manage to get to bed just half an
hour earlier, it may just be enough to keep
you hale and hearty throughout the festive
season.
Sabera Chowdhury, LCPH, MARH, is a local
registered homeopath who uses gentle
vibrational remedies to restore the body’s
natural health and vitality.
For more information please contact
Sabera on 07949 575887 or visit
www.willesdenhomeopathy.co.uk
Clubs and Classes
Fencing
as a sport
for young
children?
I
wasn’t a natural ‘sports mum’, but rather
I was dragged into the unusual world of
fencing by my son, Max. He decided he
wanted to fence from a very early age
after watching film The Princess Bride and
badgered me to find somewhere he could
learn the sport.
12 years later, and having watched Max
progress from a fledgling to a GB foilist, I
find I am a passionate advocate of fencing,
especially for children. I’ve watched boys
and girls of all shapes and sizes and from
a variety of backgrounds and abilities
develop into confident young adults. Some
are highly competitive and aim to reach
Olympic standard, while others simply
want to enjoy the sport for fun. All share
the sense of pride that they are doing a
sport that is interesting and different and
often becomes a unique talking point with
teachers, friends and family.
My own experience of the sport is
endorsed by experts, including writer
and academic Veronika Aleksova, whose
Benefits of Fencing for Children I have
summarised below:
1. Fencing burns off plenty of energy, so
it is one of the best activities to tire out
energetic children and to ensure that they
are enjoying a healthy, active lifestyle.
2. Fencing is a very strategic sport, often
compared to a physical form of chess.
It teaches children both to think for
themselves and also to analyse the way
other people think.
3. Fencing helps develop balance and
agility to improve coordination and
reflexes.
4. Good timing is important in fencing - an
ability that children can apply to other
sports and activities like music and dance.
5. Since fencing is an individual sport,
children learn independence and to take
responsibility for their own successes
or failures. However, fencing is taught in
groups so children have plenty of social
interaction with each other.
6. Fencing is great for improving attention
and concentration as children are taught
how to stay focused and follow instructions
carefully.
7. Fencing is courteous sport that
encourages fair play and is based on the
values of honour, chivalry and respect.
8. Fencers need to be able to control
their emotions in order to out-think their
competitors. The sport can provide a
channel to turn stress, anger and frustration
into healthy competition.
9. Many children are inspired to take up
fencing because they have seen sword
fighting in films or video games. Fencing
classes provide a safe environment where
they can learn the sport.
10. Fencing is fun and suits boys and
girls equally. Learning the skill of fencing
can give children an insight into history,
or appeal to their interest in historical or
fantasy fiction, or stage acting.
Fencing gave our son a sport that helped
to limit his time on the dreaded computer
games and TV, and that he can continue to
enjoy now that he has left school. We have
found that fencing is much more than just
a sport - it has provided children we know
with valuable skills that have positively
prepared them for a healthy and happy life.
Caroline Woollard is Club Secretary and
Manager of Salle Paul Fencing Club in
Hendon. See advertisement pg 14.
www.sallepaul.co.uk
Paediatric First
Aid Courses
Sat 24 Jan & Sat 28 Feb Pinner/Harrow Area
Accepted for Voluntary OFSTED Registration.
Training can be extended for Full Registration
at no further charge.
Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85
Contact Margaret at [email protected]
or on 07814 191 395 for bookings
Other dates available
Families NW London Magazine is distributed to over 30,000 families.
To advertise YOUR BUSINESS with us,
call: 01923 237 004 email: [email protected]
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
15
Nurseries and Childcare
ASK A LOCAL...
Nursery Manager
Hemal Lukha is Head of the newly expanded St Nicholas
Nursery in Wembley.
[email protected]; 020 8205 9744
www.StNicholasNursery.org.uk
but I love going there to learn and play!” Hearing this means a
great deal to me.
 How do you fit work around family life?
 Tell us a bit about yourself.
I live in Stanmore and am the mum of twin boys, aged 5. I have
always had a passion for childcare, but my keen interest in
the early years began while I was living in Mumbai, where the
curriculum is based on learning through play.
After moving to the UK, my natural inclination was to continue
working in childcare. This led me to work with a leading group of
nurseries in North London over a 10-year period, during which I
progressed from being a practitioner to managing a nursery.
 Tell us about St Nicholas Nursery.
St Nicholas Nursery is linked to St Nicholas Preparatory School,
which has been established for over 75 years. It has recently
been renovated to ensure it has excellent amenities and can
provide quality childcare for children between the ages of 3
months to 5 years.
 What is the best bit about what you do?
The best bit of what I do is seeing what I have helped to create,
which is an environment that embodies my three S’s: safety,
security and stimulation. When I wake up each morning, my
children usually ask if they are going to my Nursery after school
to learn and play. If the answer is “no”, their response is often: “...
16
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Having a young family and working full time can be very
demanding. With the support, flexibility and backing of both my
employer and my husband, I have been able to pursue my dream
of setting up and managing a business.
 What are the best bits about managing a nursery?
Managing a nursery is very challenging, rewarding and fun. No
two days are the same. Some days, everything runs smoothly;
on others, I could start with a show-around, organize cover for a
member of staff who has called in sick, settle and issue monthly
invoices, and have a new child settling into the nursery. Even
though I do not own the business, my nursery is my baby!
 As an expert in your field, can you offer a word of
advice to parents looking for childcare?
My advice to parents would be to be 100% sure that your chosen
nursery can provide the best start for your child. Have a look at
the facilities, get a feel for the environment, and ask as many
questions as you can. The biggest mistake I have seen parents
make is basing their decision solely on fees. Try to think ahead.
What are your long-term dreams for your children? What options
do you want them to have in their future and what will it take to
realize them?
Nurseries and Childcare
Tips to develop
your toddler’s
language
L
anguage development is on ongoing
process for children from a very
young age and each child develops
at their own rate. Children should
enjoy learning and will reach their full
potential if given enough opportunities to
develop.
At home or in a nursery/preschool setting,
focusing on the seven areas of learning in
the Early Years Foundation Stage – EYFS
allows children to express creativity in their
play. Children should also be encouraged
to ask questions such as how, why and
what to help them develop conversations
from statements.
Encourage children to develop
communication by allowing them time
to talk and by listening to what they are
saying. Children need to know that you
are interested in what they are saying and
doing. Playing with your child without
distractions like the television, allows you
to focus on what your child enjoys and
Imaginative
play is a
great way
to develop
speech…
Get involved, share the excitement
and think of additional ways that this
imagination can grow by developing your
child beyond what they have seen. You
may find big boxes turn into diggers or an
old sheet becomes a cave. Support your
child to investigate and explore while you
have fun being a child again!
Contributed by:- The Little Academy
Nursery, Tillotson Road, Harrow HA3 6PS
0208 421 2128
www.thelittleacademy.co.uk
gives you the opportunity to extend your
child’s vocabulary and interest by asking
open ended questions. If you notice a
speech error, try not to correct it outright,
but rather model the correct word/phrase
and your child will pick this up. Imaginative
play is a great way to develop speech
and extend your child’s vocabulary as
they pretend to imitate what they have
seen whether through being a superhero,
builder, chef etc.
SportsKids - Multi-Sports Academy
Sports Activities for 4 to 16 year olds
Tel: 01923 255099 E: [email protected]
Sportscoach are celebrating
10 years by expanding and
rebranding to
SportsKids Academy
American Football - Dodgeball - Handball - Basketball
Tag Rugby - Softball - Gaelic Football - Rounders - Athletics
Kwik Cricket - Gymnastics - Tennis - Climbing Wall - Fencing
Lacrosse - Netball - Volleyball - Archery - Martial Arts - Kin Ball
Football - Badminton - Tri Golf - Uni-Hoc
LIKE us on Facebook to get after-press
updates on local events and activities!
www.facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon
We are located in Harrow and Rickmansworth
www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
17
Nurseries and Childcare
What to expect from
Your Child’s Nursery Education
by Hannah Hunter
W
e’ve all heard about the
importance of early years
education. Apparently
a child who has gone to
pre-school has more chance of getting
better exam results and ultimately earning
higher wages, according to new research
undertaken by academics at the Institute
of Education.
It also covers the seven areas of learning
and development. These are:
So you send your child to nursery, in the
hope that it will improve their education
prospects. But what are they actually
going to do there all day? They’re not
going to tell you! Teenagers struggle
enough to recall what’s happened a few
hours before, so you can’t expect detailed
information from a 3-year-old.
•understanding the world
To give you some idea of what will happen,
you can look at the legal requirements
for nurseries in the UK. The Early Years
Foundation Stage framework is a
document that sets out the statutory
welfare and developmental goals for
children 5 years and under. It gives
guidelines for safety and learning and
development for all early years providers
- all nurseries, child minders, playgroups,
preschools and reception classes
The EYFS explained
The EYFS framework document can seem
daunting, but it’s there to ensure that all
children receive a suitable level of care.
It sets out the legal requirements that keep
your child safe and promote their welfare.
This includes:
•Basic checks, such as staff security
checks
•Setting the number of children each
member of staff can look after
•Ensuring the facilities and equipment are
safe and suitable
•Checking the quality of the environment,
e.g. recommending access to outdoor
space
•communication and language
•physical development
•personal, social and emotional development
•literacy
•mathematics
•expressive arts and design
The activities they will do at nursery, to
support their learning and development
will be unique to your child’s needs. They
will learn by playing and exploring, being
active, and through creative and critical
thinking which takes place both indoors
and outside. There is a requirement for
‘continuous provision’, which in layman’s
terms means that there needs to be high
quality resources and activities available all
of the time, so your child can learn through
play in lots of different ways.
Assessment
The EYFS also lays out guidelines for
assessment of your child’s progress.
Soon after your child turns 2, you will
get a written summary of how your
child is progressing in communication
and language, physical development
and personal, social and emotional
development. Any areas where they need
extra help or support will be highlighted at
this stage.
progress report including some of this
information.
How will I know how my child
is doing?
Your child will have a ‘key person’ at
nursery, pre-school or reception class,
who is responsible for putting together
information on how they are developing.
This person will be your main point of
contact, and it’s important that you
work together and communicate well.
Any worries about your child should be
discussed with their key worker, and they
will be able to build on what your child is
learning at home.
Look at the full document here: https://
www.gov.uk/government/publications/
early-years-foundation-stage-framework--2
For a detailed parent’s guide to the EYFS
go to: http://www.foundationyears.org.
uk/files/2014/08/EYFS_Parents_Guideamended.pdf
For more general advice for parents:
http://www.ndna.org.uk/parents
The next written assessment will come
when your child is 5, usually at the end of
their reception year, which is the last year
they are classed as being in early years
education. This will include assessment of
skills such as writing their name, reading
and talking about a favourite book,
speaking to people your child is not so
familiar with or their understanding of
numbers. The school will give you a
Funtimes Playgroup
Ickenham
2nd Ickenham Scout Hall
Community Close
Tel: 07528 001478
Email: [email protected]
Open: 9.30am to 12.30pm (Mon-Fri)
Term time only. Ages 2yrs to 5yrs
NEF & 2 YR funding available. We accept child
care vouchers. Ofsted registered.
18
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Nurseries and Childcare
CHILDCARE QUIZ:
what’s best for me?
by Joanna Moorhead
There are a whole host of factors to take into account in working out what childcare is going to be best for you and your child
or children. Joanna Moorhead guides you through the questions you need to ask yourself - and offers a key to what kind of
care your answers might point towards.
1. How many children do you have?
4. Are you a single parent?
Even though some nurseries offer
reductions for a second child, your bill for
two children is still going to be a lot more
than it will be for one, whereas with a
nanny/au pair the cost is the same whether
it’s one child or three, because you pay for
the carers time.
SCORE 1 per child; plus 1 if there’s a high
chance you’ll be pregnant again in the next
18 months
If so you’re likely to have less back-up, but
also a lower disposable income.
2. What ages are your children?
The younger your youngest child is, the
more individually-tailored care you’re likely
to need.
SCORE 3 if your youngest is under a year, 2
if he/she is under two years, and 1 if he/she
is three-plus
3. Do you live in a rural or an
urban area?
The more populous your area, the more
childcare options there will be available. If
you live somewhere really remote, hiring a
nanny/au pair might be the only option.
SCORE 3 for a rural area, 2 if you live in the
suburbs, 1 if you’re an urbanite
SCORE 2 if yes
5. How much disposable income
do you have?
The money you spend on childcare is
less about what you’ve got left over and
more about investing in your career for
the future, but you still need to have some
spare income to pay for it.
SCORE 3 if you have what you’d consider a
high disposable income; 2 if medium; and
1 if low
6. Is your work predictable?
Knowing you’re going to start and finish
work at the same time each day makes
nursery a much more realistic option
than if you’re likely to be called in to your
workplace at the drop of a hat, or in the
middle of the night, or if you might end up
staying until the early hours with little or no
warning.
SCORE 1 for yes, 3 for no
7. Do you have a long commute?
You need to add travel time to your
SCORES
Up to 10: Could a nursery be the right choice for you? Look
round some of the nurseries in your area and see what your
instinctive feel about them is. Nurseries provide more structured
care that can suit many families, though it’s harder for them to
cater for parents who work very long or unpredictable hours.
10-20: Are you the perfect fit for a childminder? For families
who like the idea of childcare in a different setting from home,
with other children but with some flexibility on timings, this can
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Call Anjli on 07840 904887
Email [email protected]
Visit www.yogabelliesteachers.co.uk/anjli-patel/
working hours, and if you’re commuting a
long distance a nursery or a childminder
might be trickier.
SCORE 3 for yes
8. Do you have a spare bedroom?
A live-in nanny/au pair needs a place to
sleep; though if you don’t have the space,
you can still consider sharing one who lives
in their own or another the other family’s
home (in the case or a nannyshare).
SCORE 3 for yes
9. Does your child have a health
issue of any kind?
This could make a nanny/au pair the best
bet since all activities/meals/outings can be
planned with your child at the centre.
SCORE 3 for yes
10. Are you a ‘laissez faire’ or a
‘controlling’ parent?
If you’re the kind of parent who’s going to
be happy to leave your childcarer to make
decisions on your behalf through the day,
you’re probably going to be happier with a
childminder or nursery setting than if you
want to be able to lay down exactly what
you want to happen while you’re at work.
SCORE 1 for laissez faire, 3 for controlling
be a perfect option - and childminders can be lower-cost than
nurseries or nannies.
20-30: If you have the space and the income, hiring a nanny/au
pair means you can provide care that’s tailored precisely to your
child or children. Plus if your family is still expanding, a live-in
carer can be a cost-saver in the long term.
We hope you enjoyed this quiz, it is just to make you think
of your options in a different way and it may not provide the
correct answer for you!
SWIMMING LESSONS
COLINDALE
STARTS JANUARY 2015
LADIES ONLY
CLASSES AVAILABLE
www.aquaswim.org
02089311811
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
19
Nurseries and Childcare
Discover the FUN
OF learning at
Pre-School!
T
wo year olds like to be
independent – they are surer
of themselves and of what
they can do as they grow!
Children grow up so fast that by the
time they reach the age of two, they
begin to develop their emotions and,
like a roller coaster ride, they can go
from excitement to anger to laughter all
within a few moments - most parents
witness these emotions and get to join
in on the ride, whether they want to or
not!
Parents therefore need to consider
carefully the needs of their individual
child when looking to place him or her in
a nursery. They also need to think about
starting a good ongoing routine for their
child by combining home environment
as well as a Nursery environment once
the child is two years old. This process
is all about planning for your child at
the right age to ensure that by the time
the child is over four years old, that he/
she is also independent with basic skills
20
that see him/her ready to enter into a
Primary School Reception year. Parents
therefore need to plan well ahead when
thinking about placing their child into a
nursery and discover that learning can
be fun!
A child who is two years of age, needs
to interact with other children to begin
the real learning process by sharing
and developing some social skills and
explore the wider environment around
them. This can only happen in a friendly
and fun learning environment with
caring adults to develop them and
is often best achieved by combining
both a home PLUS a routine developed
in a pre-school. The government is
supporting this now by helping parents
who may be eligible for free pre-school
places if they are on income support
or on tax credits with joint income less
than £16,190 for up to 15 hours per
week. Those meeting certain criteria can
be eligible based on date of birth and
income checks – check with your local
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
approved proders.
To find out more visit www.gov.uk
or search online for your local Family
Information Service.
Bharat Raithatha together with Mrs
Kirti Jobanputra - Early Years Manager
are based at Little Stars Pre-School
setting which is based at the Headstone
Lawn Tennis Club, (Hillfield close, off
Woodberry Avenue, North Harrow HA2
6BA) .They are an approved provider
open from 9am to 3:30pm pm term time
with option for breakfast club.
The Pre-School is open at various times
during the day providing all parents
the flexibility of choosing morning or
afternoon sessions as well as full day cost effective with full learning elements
in line with EYFS (the current framework
that early years foundation stage
children follow.)
www.littlestarspreschool.co.uk
0208 933 7422
3 months to 5 years
• Open 8am-6pm 51 weeks a year
• From 3 months to 5 years
• Newly refurbished
• Modern and well equipped
• Fully safe and secure building
• Large outdoor area
• Extra-curricular activities offered such
as French, Music Movement and ICT
• Dedicated baby room and outdoor
space
Open Days:
St Nicholas Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PN
Friday 7 Nov & Sat 8th Nov
Friday 5th Dec and Friday
10th Jan. 10am-12pm
Tel: 0208 205 9744
www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
21
Mummy on the Edge
Angelina anticipates teen angst and she
and Midi-Me enjoy a girly jaunt to Bath.
G
ulp. I don’t know how it happened. One minute I
was floating on the operating table happily aware of
Candy Statton singing Never Knew Love Like This
Before on Heart FM as they pulled Tiny-Me out; the
next, I’m sitting on the sofa under a blanket with
Midi-Me watching Jobs, the movie about the volatile Apple
entrepreneur, (rated 15). She is turning 13 this month (well the
movie is educational, innit) and I am experiencing anxiety about
the speed of time.
Am I old enough to be the mother of a 13 year old? I’m
only about 17 years old in my head. So far, the highly-strung
hysteria I have been bracing myself for has thankfully remained
non-existent. And that’s lucky because there’s no time or space
for a drama tween here. She knows where the shed is. Sure,
I have single-handedly brought her up to be polite, musical,
and generally lovely. Sure, she’s never had a tantrum - a fact
I go on about to my Sing and Sign parents ALL THE TIME
to demonstrate the fact that baby signing makes kids less
frustrated because they are able to communicate their needs
from an early age. But I have to face facts: no one really knows
what Kevin-and-Perry-themed disaster MAY lie ahead.
Whatever and if ever it comes up, we will deal with it. We
who? Me and the ever-helpful Huffpost Parenting, of course.
Even though I’m not a subscriber myself, I can be sure that
something prescriptive will pop up on my facebook feed before
I know I need it. Yesterday it was 10 things to say to your 13 year
old today. I clicked on it and surprisingly, “Go and tidy your
flippin’ room!” wasn’t on the list. Nor was, “You know where the
shed is!” NATURALLY, I NEVER shout but am patient, loving,
nurturing, kind and anything else you imagine I should be. And I
signed with her when she was a baby. And I always apologise if
I’m unreasonably grumpy. Which I NATURALLY, NEVER am.
And I take her on trips sometimes, just the two of us. We
don’t make them that often but the best trips involve at least
two hours in the car and getting a bit lost on the way. Which
you might think isn’t that easy since one can use the smartphone
to Ask the Google, but I can assure you through personal
experience, that it IS possible. Specifically, when there’s no GPS
signal available; all you can see for miles is grass and a couple
of cows; and you find that the only map available is a small,
tattered book left in the rear seat pocket by the person you
bought the car from 8 years ago.
Elisa’s Tutorial School
Edgware
from 21/2 years to 16 years of age.
Give your child the best start.
26 years experience. Ex St. Michaels’
Grammar School teacher. BA. PGCE
Expert tuition in English, Maths and
reasoning for 4 plus, 7 plus, 11 plus,
13 plus and also GCSE.
Pre-school reading, maths and
writing classes taught through music, art,
toys and stories, computer lessons also.
020 8958 1192
07956 868119
Online tutoring available at
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22
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
The last such trip
we took was to Bath.
Midi-Me and I stayed in a
charming B&B that was
a fifteen minute walk
into town and had to
change rooms when we
found that the ceiling
was about to cave in, but
the owners very kindly
moved us to their holiday
cottage which was actually lovely, if rather cobwebby. Things
have a way of working themselves out.
It’s easy to make the mistake of trying to see and do it all.
And we did. Three museums in one day is a bit much, really and
we were rather Jane Austened out (a bit like what happened in
Stratford with Shakespeare a couple of years ago). We walked
and walked and I didn’t fuss when Midi-Me stopped to take
artistic photos on the way, seemingly of EVERYTHING. Including
one of a bridge with her hand wrapped around it, like a lego
model. And pictures of me looking wistfully out over water and
in front of Georgian buildings. Very creative. We even found a
Geo-Cache which is a box of “treasures” left in a hiding place for
the next person to discover. Exciting! You are supposed to take
something and leave something. Unfortunately all I had on me
to spare in my pocket was a used tissue and a 20-pence piece.
So we took a balloon and left the coin. The highlight of the trip
was swimming in the open air at the Cross Bath, fed by the only
natural hot water spring in the country, sourced by the Romans!
We were the only people there, and it was wonderful. Bath was
the perfect girly jaunt for a mummy on the edge and her nearly
13 year old daughter.
Discover how to do Bath in 3 days
at mynotesfromtheedge.blogspot.com.
Angelina runs Sing and Sign award-winning baby signing
classes in Harrow, Bushey and Rickmansworth.
www.singandsign.com
Travel
Travelling Long Haul With The Kids
Is It Take Off?
Or Just Plain Turbulent?
A
s specialists in long haul luxury
family travel we often get
asked many questions from our
customers who are all very excited
but yet quite anxious about their dream
holiday with their little ones.
So here are our top tips to make that
journey smoother:
1. Whilst flashy online travel packages may
seem attractive - don’t assume it is always
the best deal – compare prices from a
variety of sources when buying. Most travel
agents will match online prices these days
and can give you peace of mind of as well
as fine tune your holiday to your family’s
individual needs. Even if it’s a few extra
pounds, it can be money well spent if takes
away the stress of things not being as they
seem at the time of purchase.
2. Talk to your travel agent and be honest
so you can benefit from their training and
experience to provide the best advice for
your situation. Luxury holidays are costly,
and advance bookings, whilst value for
money, carry a significant time lag before
departure. If your circumstances change or
cancellations may become a reality make
sure that you have booked with airlines that
are more lenient with penalties and refunds
as most flights and packages tend to be
non-refundable these days. Your travel agent
can give you more advice when booking.
3. When booking luxury holidays don’t be
afraid to mention dietary requirements,
allergies or needs, including the children.
The benefit of it being luxury is that most
resorts and hotels will go out of their way
to cater for your individual needs. Many
parents still carry their children’s foods with
them when travelling but this shouldn’t
be the case if your hotelier has a good
understanding with your travel agent and is
given enough notice.
4. When on holiday, try and stick to your
daily routine! Going into different time
zones is disrupting enough, so make your
holiday easier by planning your flights
around your children’s routine. Sometimes
this may be a little more expensive, but
many of our customers testify that it makes
a big difference to the quality of their stay
once they have reached their destination.
Children adapt quicker to the new time
zone and it means less sleepless nights for
mum and dad! After all it is supposed to be
a holiday!
5. Don’t underestimate the value of being
adequately insured. Many families when
travelling say ‘ I have travel insurance
through my bank account’! These are all
very basic insurances and sometimes don’t
even cover the place of travel. If you or your
children have pre-existing conditions such
as asthma, diabetes or disabilities, make
sure that, in the unfortunate event of an
emergency, you’re not left underinsured.
Also ask your travel agent about local and
onsite (resort) medical facilities if you think
you may need them.
Shabana Salemohamed is a travel
consultant with TravelPal, specialising
in long-haul family travel.
www.travelpallondon.com
02089310060
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
23
Local Clubs and Classes Directory
CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS
Mary Kay Skincare Classes (UB) FREE classes offered. A tailored
demonstration to meet your skincare needs and a trial of the products.
There is no obligation to buy. Invite two or three other ladies and have
fun. Based in Uxbridge but do travel.  [email protected]
www.marykay.co.uk/edrew  07939657075
The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) Pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore.
Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more,
students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in
a friendly and homely environment. Offer group and one-to-one hands
on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk
Eggless Cake Delights – Baking Classes (HA3) Classes are suitable for
beginners as well as keen bakers - Demonstration and hands on classes
- you will learn all the techniques to make homemade cakes, cupcakes,
cookies etc. Classes are held in small groups iin Harrow, Kenton.
 www.egglesscakedelights.com
Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based yoga classes
for women through out their lives. The sessions incorporate traditional
yoga asanas (postures) adapted for the water, water relaxations and
positive life building experiences for women, mothers and infants. There
is Aquabellies - aquanatal yoga for pregnant mums, AquaTinies - classes
for mum with baby AquaMamas - post natal mum only class and also
Aquabelles, aqua yoga classes suitable for all women.  07840 904887
 [email protected] www.yogabelliesteachers.co.uk/anjli-patel/
First Aid
MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and
voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs.
 Margaret 07814 191 395  [email protected]
LANGUAGE AND BABY DEVELOPMENT
Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries
about brain development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive
Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses
refunded.  020 7631 6258  www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk
Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive
Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North
London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Saturday morning
at 9am and 10am at Nower Hill School, Pinner.  www.sansaar.org
Baby Massage & Yoga
Baby Massage (HA) Learn to massage your baby. Baby Massage has
huge benefits for both mum and baby including development of the
brain and immune system and help with colic, sleep, bonding and
attachment. 5 week course accredited by the Royal College of Midwives.
 Niki 07956 388 748  [email protected]
Positiv-Life Fitness (various) Specialise in Small group Personal
training Pregnancy Pilates, Mum & Baby Yoga & Postnatal Pilates &
Baby Massage, for those in & near Eastcote Ruislip, Pinner, Northwood &
Uxbridge. [email protected]
 07974 062 973  www.positivlifefitness.com
www.facebook.com/positivlifefitness > Twitter @PositivLifeFit
YogaBelliesKidz & YogaBellies Little Angels (WD/HA) YogaBelliesKidz
are a fantastical yoga journey for 4 to 8 year olds (and pre-teen classes
for 9-12 years). The sessions are written in line with the UK National
Curriculum for Excellence and are active and interactive. YogaBellies®
Little Angels Yoga & Massage for Toddlers sessions are aimed at babies
aged 10 to 36 months and allow caregivers and toddlers to continue
the bonding process through yoga and dry massage routines. These
sessions are an excellent way of developing a toddler’s motor skills,
focus, breathing and relaxation. Classes in Watford and Harrow.
 [email protected] www.yogabellies.co.uk
Sign Language
MUSIC & MOVEMENT
Active in Music (HA5) Active in Music is a music school for children
aged 5+, combining individual and group learning to give a fully
rounded approach to learning an instrument. Piano, violin and guitar
are available to learn. Please see website for further details and call to
arrange a time to see the classes and the school.
 020 3504 1000  www.activeinmusic.com
Beat Building (HA1&HA2) Using drums & percussion from around the
world beat Building is an inspiring & energising musical activity that
teaches the core principles of music and rhythm. Drumming is fantastic
for releasing energy positively and great for enhancing co-ordination,
concentration and focus as well as building confidence and self esteem.
 07721 623 171  [email protected]
Dinky Dancers (various) Classes are a fantastic & original mixture of
dance, creative movement, P.E. skills & musical activities. Written by
experts & based on the Early Years’ Foundation Stage, go and find out
why OFSTED rate them as ‘OUTSTANDING’! Their classes help develop
skills vital for education such as listening, following instructions, turn
taking & concentration.  01923 239424 / 0208 207 2109
Jiggle Gym (various) Physical soft-play classes for under 3s in
Borehamwood, Edgware/Mill Hill and Finchley/Hendon. Children
are challenged by a different set of obstacle courses to climb, crawl,
walk, and jump through. Classes also combine music and movement
activities, sensory developmental activities, and parachute play! Jiggle
Gym also specialises in parties and hire.  07817323010
 [email protected] www.jigglegym.co.uk
Little Notes (HA1) Music Teachers’ Awards for Excellence Finalist 2014.
Pre-school music classes run exclusively by professional musicians.
Real music, real instruments, really fun! Classes for children from 0 to
5 years. Please see website for more details and to book a Free Taster
Session.  020 8426 4114  www.littlenotes.org
Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are filled
with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement. Focusing
on a range of engaging activities, the classes take you up tempo then
down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a
tummy tickling roller coaster!  Contact [email protected] or
visit www.mini-maniacs.com
Monkey Music (Various)
Award-winning Monkey Music introduces
babies and young children to music in a
way they understand and enjoy - and is
brilliant fun for children and adults too! The
unique four-stage curriculum ensures that
classes are a “good fit” for pre-schoolers. Voted as “Best National
Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National Pre-school
Development Activity.” Age guides are as follows: Rock’n’Roll
from 3m, Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong
3- 5yrs. Classes are open 6 days a week, at venues in Hillingdon,
Eastcote and Harrow.
 01895 674587  www.monkeymusic.com
The West London School of Tabla (HA2) Learn rhythm and improvisation
with classical Indian Percussion. Syllabus aimed at 4-11 years with
assessments and examinations.
 020 8864 6364  www.wlstabla.co.uk
Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby
signing with music to develop language, memory and attention
skills. Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and
Harrow:  Angelina Melwani 07956 948776, 020 8950 0888.  www.
singandsign.com
TinyTalk (Ruislip, Ickenham and Rickmansworth) Baby Signing
Classes up to 20 months. Toddler Talking Classes 20 months to 4 years.
Thursday: St Giles Hall, Ickenham: 10am Toddlers, 11.30am Babies. Friday:
Methodist church, Ruislip: 10am Babies, 11.15am Toddlers, 1pm Babies.
£5.50 per hour (paid 6 weeks upfront) Louisa Felton 07879 604 967
 [email protected] www.tinytalk.co.uk/louisaf/index.php
SPORTS AND EXERCISE
ACTIVITY CENTRES
Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th
birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through
football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders
Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet  020 8201 1084  jlevene@
littlekickers.co.uk. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2),
Harrow on the Hill and Watford  0208 123 9346  jodiesloan@
littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley  0208
422 0676  [email protected] www.littlekickers.co.uk
Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide range
of activities available from 6mths to 12yrs.  020 8954 5759
 [email protected]. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP
Gambado Watford (WD25) Giant play-frame, dodgems, climbing wall,
and parties.  01923 892140  www.gambado.com
24
Partyman World of Play - Wembley (HA0) A magical place of multilevel play structures, air cannons, comfy seating for mums and dads to
relax. Indoor playcentre and fabadousa party venue.
 0208 904 9044  www.partymanworld.co.uk
The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting venue which hosts many
activities for ALL ages from babies to adults.  01895 624755  www.
thewindmillstudio.com
Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a fun,
positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for the
perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and core
skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley,
Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Call 08452 26 26 94 to book a trial
session. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They
are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike!  08452
26 26 94  www.enjoy-a-ball.com [email protected]
Fit For Sport (Various) ‘The UK’s leading healthy lifestyle activities
provider’ 3-12 yrs.  0845 456 3233  www.fitforsport.co.uk
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Directory editor: Anna Blackshaw
Salle Paul Fencing Club (NW9) Fencing for boys and girls in age
appropriate groups near Brent Cross Shopping Centre. For ages 5-7, 8-12,
13-17 (and 18+). Free parking, wifi and seating area. Termly courses for
children on Tuesdays and Wednesdays after school. Spaces available to
join mid-term. First session FREE - quote “Families” when booking. 
[email protected] www.sallepaul.co.uk
SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children.
All students are taught in small groups with children of similar age and
ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years ( an hour and a half.) Main Academy
6-16 years (3 hours). All students are taught in small groups with children
of similiar age and ability. (Previously known as SportsCoach.) Held at
JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth
 01923255099  [email protected] www.sportskidsacademy.
co.uk
Tumble Tots (Various) Physical activity group for babies – 5 yrs. Develop
balance, climbing, agility and co-ordination skills.
 www.tumbletots.com
White Crane Karate School (HA8) Karate classes for children ages
5-12 held in Edgware, East Finchley, Finchley Central , Stanmore and
Harrow Weald. Adult classes in Barnet.  Sheena 0787 550 1674 
[email protected] www.karatewhitecrane.co.uk
Swimmimg
Aqua Style (WD23/HA6) teaches children, babies and adults to swim
without aids in small groups, or One to One. Good facilities and plenty of
parking. They run Intensive ‘Fast Track’ Courses during School Holidays
and weekly ‘Term Time’ courses.  www.aquaswim.org
 07925954144.
Aqua Vie (WD23, WD5) Small classes based on the Alexander Technique.
Babies from 6 weeks.  07525 657 9878
 [email protected] www.aqua-vie.com
Aweswim (various) Aweswim offers courses for people of all ages and
abilities, ranging from parent and baby groups through to adults. 
www.aweswim.co.uk  01923 537070
Push & Glide Swimming School (WD18, WD23, HA6) Push & Glide
Swimming School provide extremely high standards of swimming
instruction, they pride themselves on their friendly, dynamic teaching
environment. They provide fully qualified instructors who are committed
to maintaining and improving an excellent quality of teaching along with
low ratio swimming lessons in a safe environment for children aged 3.5
years plus. All abilities are catered for, from gaining water confidence
through to competition training, following the ASA progressive scheme
awards..  07749554405  www.pushandglide.co.uk
Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday clubs and
After school club held at Quainton Hall School. Swimming lessons also
held at Merchant Taylors School and Uxendon Manor Primary School.
 Splashtime Swim School  07903126486 Children’s Activities
07794078452
Swimkidz Watford Ltd (WD4, HA1, HA9) Structured, progressive and fun
swimming lessons for babies, toddlers and children.
 07545523196  [email protected] www.swimkidz.co.uk
THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS
Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes
in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls
aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA examinations to advanced level. 
07974 750 224  www.beverleydance.co.uk.
JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Classes available for everyone
from 2.5 years – adults, male and female that include a creative
explosion of styles in dance, drama and singing.
 01895 624755  www.jam2000.co.uk
Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) run weekend dance, drama
and singing classes for children aged 3 - 18 years. Children are divided
into age appropriate groups and work towards shows and presentations.
Jigsaw focuses on having fun and building confidence through engaging
performing arts activities. Two week trial available.  020 8447 4530
 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk
Perform Drama (Various) Together with a team of experienced theatre
professionals, the children will combine live original music, inspirational
dance and quick witted improvisation and colourful costumes into a
performance at the end of the term. Perform sessions are specially
designed to encourage creativity, confidence and communication skills
as well as being a kaleidoscope of fun!  0845 400 1275  www.
perform.org.uk
Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Performance
based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth,
Ruislip and Stanmore where children aged 3-21 attend weekly classes in
preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions.
 01923 437693  www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk
Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines or drama, dance
and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and
beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being
coaxed out of their shell by having fun!  Harrow 020 3504 0100
Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow
Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861
Northwood 01442 263 599  www.stagecoach.co.uk
Local Clubs and Classes Directory
Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, Drama
and Communication Skills for children aged 3-18yrs.
 [email protected]
Dance
Chantraine Dance of Expression (NW6) Classes for all ages covering all
aspects of dance - rhythm, technique, creativity, choreography - for
the development of the whole person. Friendly, non-competitive
environment. All abilities welcomed.  020 7435 4247
 www.chantrainedance.co.uk
Dance My Way (HA9) Technical dance training for stage shows for children
aged 5-11 yrs - Jazz, Latin, Street, Bollywood, Jive, Salsa and many more
dance styles. Choreographies, Technique, Stretching & Expression in a fun
and professional environment with end of term showcase. Course starts
Sat 10th Jan at Chalkhill Community Centre.  0786 686 1287  info@
dancemyway.co.uk www.dancemyway.co.uk
Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility
in Uxbridge. Offer classes for ages 2 through to adults. Ballet (RAD), Tap
(ISTD), Contemporary, Hip Hop, Street Dance, Break Dancing, Street Cheer,
Pole Fitness, Gymnastics, Free Running and Children’s Parties. Classes
range from beginners to advanced/competitive levels.  01895 251224
 www.futunityuk.com.
Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) Exciting, Energetic and popular
dance classes that teach a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip-Hop
and Kathak. Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults, you will learn from
professional teachers and all dance levels welcome.
 020 8423 9543/07944 457 984  www.kspark.co.uk
Lorna Clark School of Dance (Various) Established for over 40 years,
training students from 3-18 yrs - Ballet, Tap, Modern, Classical Greek
and National. Royal Academy of Dance Examinations are taken in Ballet
from Primary to Advanced Level and ISTD exams in all other Genre to the
same standard. All classes held in South Harrow/Eastcote. Book a free No
Obligation Lesson with this advert, by phoning 0208 8662105 or 01923
285380. www.lornaclarkschoolofdance.co.uk
The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise,
technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16
years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations
 020 8950 2457  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk
ARTS AND CRAFTS
After-School Art Classes For Kids in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting
and mixed-media. Mon–Thurs and Sat for Reception through GCSE.
One-to-one tuition for all ages, including portfolio-building for University
applicants.  Lisa 020 8954 2897  [email protected]
Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or 11-12pm
at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; drawing,
painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric printing and much more!
For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided. Qualified teachers.
 07946 055 422  [email protected]
Eggless Cake Delights – Baking Classes (HA3) Classes are suitable for
beginners as well as keen bakers - Demonstration and hands on classes
- you will learn all the techniques to make homemade cakes, cupcakes,
cookies etc. Classes are held in small groups in Harrow, Kenton.  www.
egglesscakedelights.com
Fused Glass Workshops (HA8) Design and create your glass piece in their
Studio in Edgware (platter, wall clock, coasters, mirror, picture frame...).
Open to adults and teenagers. For dates and availability,
 0773 3321094  [email protected] www.crescendo-art.
co.uk
JAMtots (HA4) Creative arts session Includes homemade cooking,
sticking, making, colouring, model making, painting and more.
 01895 624755  thewindmillstudio.com
Makes ’n’ Bakes Fun, educational baking classes with arts & crafts for
2.5 to 5 year olds in Stanmore. Term time and holiday classes held in the
comfort of Karen’s home. Maximum of 6 children per class. One to one
4+ and 5+ assessments and tuition also offered (Montessori trained). 
Please call Karen on 07887-984401  email at [email protected].
Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts for the
very young and their families, with lots and lots of mess and none of the
tidying up! Exploring different materials and textures each week. Ages
under 5, come dressed for mess!  0208 416 8989  www.harrowarts.
com/family
Mini Picassos (NW10) Offer exciting after school art courses for children
aged 4-13 years. Toddler Picassos - weekdays at 10am & Tues 2.453.45pm: Painting, water play, collage, play dough and songs. Ages 15
mnths–3 years. Adults evening Life drawing classes. Get creative with
a Mini Picassos Arty Birthday Party for children aged 2-10 years and
Summer Holiday workshops too!  07903 638 817
 www.minipicassos.co.uk [email protected]
The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) offers pure vegetarian cookery courses
in Stanmore. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese
and many more, students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious
vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Offer group
and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.
veggiekitchen.co.uk
AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/EDUCATION
Brownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units
exist across the area which provide fun activities for girls aged from 5
onwards.  www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or  Peggy Brand on
020 8205 7597 to find out more
Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and
educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes held
at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun learning with
technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices including graphic
tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every lesson is designed to
complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials available.  020 8434 7111.
 www.clickit-kids.co.uk. [email protected].
Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware.
Programmes for children from 2.5-16 yrs. If your child needs a little extra
help, in English maths verbal and non-verbal 4+ 7+ and 11+ preparing
for entrance exams or you just want to give them every advantage, Elisa
can help. 99% success rate.  020 8958 1192 07956868119  www.
childrensstories.net
Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year
olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest centre or call
to book a free trial class!  www.explorelearning.co.uk.
First Class Learning (Various) Structured yet flexible programme,
designed for children studying the UK National Curriculum. Tailored to
a child’s learning needs & style. Find out more about this structured
approach to learning, by contacting one of your local Centre managers.
 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk
First Steps Tuition (Various) Preparation for 4+, 5+ & 7+ entrance to
independent selective and state schools from age 3 years; Assisting with
interview assessment process; Teaching by an experienced individual
with a proven track record; Teaching Maths and English tailored to suit
individual needs; Regular assessment and feedback; Well resourced;
Small group size, and 1 to 1 tuition available.
 07894 989438  [email protected]
Fleet Tutors (Various) Private home tutoring for Maths and English; 37
years’ experience.  020 8580 3911  www.fleet-tutors.co.uk
Genie Tutors (HA1) Find out why so many parents are making Genie
Tutors Harrow their Number 1 choice of tuition centre for their child’s
educational needs. Call now to book in your FREE assessment and
consultation and to find out about their unique FULL money back
satisfaction guarantee.  020 3468 1881
Hatch End 11+ (various) Provide courses to fully prepare children for the
11+ and Independent School Examinations for Yr 4 and Yr 5 students. .
Lessons are carefully constructed to fully meet the requirements for the
exams. Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, Maths, Mental Arithmetic,
Creative Writing, Grammar and Comprehension. Small class sizes mean
the students’ progress is closely monitored and an open dialogue
between teacher, parent and pupil gives each student the best chance
for achieving their potential.  www.hatchend11plus.co.uk
Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime Children’s Activities
limited (HA1) Pick’s up from four local school’s at the end of the
school day, then take the children back to the club for a snack and the
daily activity. They are open Monday- Friday 3pm-6pm  Nicole
07794078452  [email protected] www.activetime.co.uk
Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities
to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor
difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better
all-round motor integration.  Usha Patel 07766 837 616  ushapatel.
[email protected] www.integratedbrain.co.uk
Jaderberg Krais Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various)
Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A
Levels, SEN, EFL.  020 3488 0754  www.jaderbergkrais.co.uk
Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and nonverbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation.
 07985 588 085  www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk
Kip McGrath Education Centre (Pinner) After school and Sat tuition
for Reception to Year 11 by fully qualified teachers. Tuition in Maths,
Reading, Spelling, Writing, SATS, 11+ and GCSE. FREE ASSESSMENT. Ofsted
Registered.  www.kipmcgrath.com
Leaders are Readers (HA8) Award winning reading programme helping
children from as young as 3 years to read fluently, often to a standard
three to four years above their peers reading age.
 01992 651 300  www.leadersarereaders.co.uk
Magikats (HA1) Innovative programmes, written to support the National
Curriculum from ages 3 – 16, Sat at Gayton Library, Harrow. Individual
programmes and support for individual children, promotes confidence,
skills and a love of learning.  02084275663  www.magikats.com
Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework
support.  0844 840 8400  www.mathscool.com
The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An
independent service covering a range of children’s communication
difficulties.  01923 824 074  www.northwoodpractice.co.uk
Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) After school Maths and English
tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement
levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide
regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11.
 www.numberworksnwords.co.uk
The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior Schools
(NW6) - 3.30pm to 6pm term time. Play Schemes available February
2015, Easter 2015, Summer 2015 and October 2015.  0207 407
6744 for more information.  [email protected] www.
theplayshelter.co.uk
Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children on the
SEN register. Reading courses are flexible with home based learning (via
computer) monitored daily.  Usha Patel on 07766 837 616  info@
ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist)
Stanmore Tutor CRB checked. Preparation for 7+ and 11+ Grammar/
Independent entrance exams.  020 3538 2437
Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on more
than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. All courses
have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the
market leading verbal reasoning Technique and Practice series. Every
year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the students on the courses have
achieved success.  020 7683 0734  www.sdeuk.org/swherts
The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus classroom
based learning, to yr 4 and 5 students. Prepare students to sit exams for
Grammar and private schools.  For a call back email your name and
phone number to [email protected]
Tutition 4 Excellence (various) Maths & Science specialists. 11+ Maths, VR
and interview preparation, SATS, Key Stage 2 to GCSE. Science Keystage 2
to GCSE. All their tutors have been educated at top independent schools!
 07450 271 027  www.tuition4excellence.co.uk
Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA5) Learn to touch
type! Specifically designed courses for children from age 8-18. Highly
recommended for children with dyslexia. Classes are held at their office
in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult classes also
available.  020 8434 7111.  www.typeitforkids.co.uk. wendy@
typeitforkids.co.uk.
U C MAS (HA2, HA3, WD18, UB4) A successful Abacus Mental Arithmetic
training programme have been teaching hundreds of children in the UK
since 2005, giving them a solid arithmetic foundation by applying the
multiple intelligence of the human brain in learning mental arithmetic
from the age of 4 with the help of the wonder tool Abacus which not
only inculcates a love towards maths for children but also enhances the
child’s ability to listen, focus and think in pictures in a play way method
without any stress or repetition. Enrol now to give your child a lifetime
skill and discover the genius within them.
 0208 907 8009  www.ucmas.uk.com
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
25
Compiled by Anna Blackshaw
What’s On in Children’s Theatre
We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check details.
The Alban Arena
Civic Centre, St Albans
01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk
Thu 29 – Sat 31 Jan – Bugsy Malone
New York 1929: a war rages between two rival
gangsters, Fat Sam and Dandy Dan. Dan is in possession
of a new and deadly weapon, the dreaded “splurge
gun”. As the custard pies fly, Bugsy Malone, an allround nice guy, falls for Blousey Brown.
artsdepot
5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12
020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk
Sun 1 Feb - The Magic Porridge Pot &
Other Tasty Tales On today’s menu there is a
trio of traditional and tasty tales to tantalize and tease.
For starters there is the magic pot which won’t stop
producing porridge. The main course is a delicious soup
made from the scrummiest stone in the world and for
pudding there is a walking talking Gingerbread Man,
who is just asking to be munched! Perfect for fussy
foodies and discerning diners. Ages 3+.
Sun 8 Feb - The Tap Dancing
Mermaid Marina Skippett creeps out of her house
every night to shuffle and stomp on the boardwalk to
the sounds of the sea. She can’t tap dance at home any
more since her evil, tractor-sized Aunty banned it! But
then, one moonlit night, Marina meets a mysterious,
watery boy swimming in the sea and her life is never
the same again! Featuring stunning puppets, original
live music and tap dancing.
Sun 1 Mar – Whatever the Weather
M6 Theatre’s imaginative new production for the very
young is set in the charming world of a traditional
Alpine Weather House. This quaint ornament tells what
weather to expect today. When the little woman comes
out it’s going to be sunny! When the little man comes
out it’s going to rain! The two characters couldn’t be
more different. But what happens when the winds of
change blow? Ages 3+
The Beck Theatre
Grange Road, Hayes.
020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk
Sun 18 Jan – The Snow Queen Michael
Whitmore’s delightful adaptation of Hans Christian
Andersen’s magical tale conjures up a captivating mix
of fantasy, fable and love triumphing over evil in this
ever popular winter favourite.
Sat 24 – Sun 25 Jan - Octonauts And
The Deep Sea Volcano Adventure
When there’s trouble under the sea, the Octonauts dive
into action! Get ready to embark on an exciting new
mission with the quirky and courageous underwater
adventure heroes, The Octonauts! Visit amazing
underwater worlds full of adventure, with surprises
around every corner, in this action-packed, musical
interactive new stage show.
Thu 5 Feb – Harry Potter Book Night
This exciting event gives new and existing fans a chance
to share the wonder of J.K. Rowling’s unforgettable
stories. You are hereby invited to embrace the magic
and banish the midwinter blues! The evening will
include games, quizzes, a Best Dressed competition, a
showing of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
and a few surprises!
26
Sun 15 Feb – Sing-a-long Frozen A
screening of Disney’s Frozen with lyrics on screen to
help you sing along with Elsa and Anna, together with
live host and magic moments fun pack so that you can
interact with the movie. The host will show you how to
use the fun pack and then just sit back and ‘Let it Go’!
Remember to dress up as your favourite character for
the fancy dress competition.
Wed 18 Feb – The Chuckles of Oz
Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and the
Scarecrow are among the familiar characters who join
the Wizards (Paul and Barry) for this sensational new
version of the familiar Wizard of Oz story. A family funpacked show including audience participation, laughout-loud comedy, spectacular sets and special effects.
Compass Theatre
Glebe Avenue, Ickenham UB10
01895 673 0200 www.compasstheatre.co.uk
Thu 15 – Sun 18 Jan – Jack and the
Beanstalk Argosy players are back! This year
they’re following the up and downs of Jack Trott and his
friends in Jack and The Beanstalk. Living with his Mum
and their cow Daisy isn’t easy, nor is gaining the money
to pay the rent to the evil Squire Squeezem, especially
as Jack’s in love with his daughter Jill!
Little Angel Theatre
14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1
020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com
Thu 20 Nov – Sun 1 Feb –
Cindermouse Travel to the land of mice where
hardworking little Cindermouse finds love in the arms
of a prince. Drawing on the Cinderella story, this show
introduces its audience to a host of colourful glove and
rod puppet characters – the outrageous sisters, the
delicate fairy, acrobats who tumble and dancers who
twirl to the musical accompaniment. Ages 3-8
Sat 29 Nov – Sun 1 Feb – Jabberwocky
A boy leaves the house where the grown-ups rule
and goes into the forest where the rules are strange
new things waiting to be discovered… JubJub…
creatures that don’t add up… Bandersnatch… or add up
differently – and somewhere in the forest a fearsome
monster is waiting…beware the Jabbawock! From the
director and writer of ‘Jonah and the Whale’ and the
designer of ‘King Arthur and the Quest for the Grail’
comes a deliciously dangerous musical extravaganza.
See marionettes that defy the laws of language,
bunraku puppets that test the limits of logic and
shadows that see through sense. Ages 5+
Lyric Theatre
Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES
0844 482 9674 www.nimaxtheatres.com
Wed 26 Nov – Sun 11 Jan – Room
on the Broom Adapted by the award winning
Tall Stories theatre company from the spellbinding
picture book, ‘Room On The Broom’ will make the
quintessential festive treat for the whole family to
enjoy. This Olivier Award nominated production tells
the story of a friendly witch, her cat and three loveable
animals who take to the skies on a broom and face a
fearsome dragon in this magical, musical adventure.
With enchanting puppetry, original sing-a-long songs
and scary fun. Ages 3+
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Puppet Theatre Barge
Little Venice W9
020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com
Sat 17 Jan – Sun 15 Mar - Red Riding
Hood and the Wolf Who Tried to Eat
Her The Puppet Theatre Barge puts on a performance
of the classic fairytale with an enchanting new twist.
The Radlett Centre
1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7
01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk
Tue 20 – Thu 22 Jan – The Tiger Who
Came to Tea The doorbell rings just as Sophie
and Mummy sit down for tea. Who could it possibly
be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door
is a big, stripy tiger! Following a smash-hit west end
season, the tea-guzzling tiger is back on the road in this
delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic,
sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage
adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem...
expect to be surprised! Ages 3+
Fri 20 Feb – Handa’s Surprise Adapted
from the book by Eileen Browne. Travel to Kenya and
follow in Handa’s footsteps as she journeys to see
her best friend Akeyo, in the next village. Handa is
taking 7 delicious fruits as a surprise – but 7 different
animals have 7 very different ideas. A blend of physical
performance, puppetry, live music and song combine to
create an intimate, magical production with audience
participation. Ages 2-5 years
The Tricycle
269 Kilburn High Road, NW6
020 7328 1000 www.tricycle.co.uk
Wed 17 Dec – Sat 10 Jan – Lionboy
Charlie Ashanti lives in a future where phones are
powered by the sun, cars are banned and companies
are more powerful than countries. Charlie is a perfectly
normal boy, except for one thing: he can speak to
cats. So when his parents are kidnapped, he sets off
on a rescue mission – with a little help from a floating
circus and its pride of performing lions. Award-winning
theatre company Complicite fuses storytelling, circus
and live percussion in this gripping adventure inspired
by Zizou Corder’s bestselling novels. Ages 8+
Unicorn Theatre
147 Tooley Street, SE1.
020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com
Fri 9 – Sun 25 Jan – The Polar Bears
Go Wild Calling all brave explorers! Join two
friendly (and slightly naughty) polar bears on the
adventure of a lifetime. Where are they going? What
will they get up to next? And have they got enough
sandwiches? Because polar bears love sandwiches,
everyone knows that! With music, laughter and quite a
bit of cheekiness ‘The Polar Bears Go Wild’ is a perfect
treat for young audiences. Up to 5 years
Tue 3 Feb – Fri 13 Mar – Storm Specially
created for young people with an autism spectrum
disorder, this new theatrical work will be a unique
journey of exploration in which audience members are
invited to participate in an environment in which they
shape the action. Part of a longer term exploration of
autism and theatre. Ages 7-11 & 12+ years
Fri 13 Feb – Sun 15 Mar – Britain’s Best
Recruiting Sergeant Little Tilley’s dreams
are realised as she follows in her father’s footsteps
and grows up to become Vesta Tilley, a shining star
of the music hall whose much-loved act as a male
impersonator makes her world-famous. War breaks
out and she supports the cause by helping to recruit
soldiers to fight for king and country, but has she
used her stardom for good? And is winning the most
important thing? The Unicorn commemorates the
centenary of World War One and the 150th anniversary
of Vesta Tilley’s birth in this feisty, song-filled and
touching look at the life of Vesta Tilley (1864 - 1952),
who was nicknamed Britain’s Best Recruiting Sergeant
and led the way for female stars in music hall
entertainment. Ages 8+
Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb – 50 Dangerous
Things (You Should Let Your Children
Do) Have you ever cooked a meal in the dishwasher?
Made a rope swing? Or licked a 9 volt battery? No?
Well this is the show for you! Acclaimed German
theatre-makers Fundus Theater give you the chance to
do everything you didn’t ever think was allowed. Face
your fears, weigh up and protect yourself against risk,
question life, the universe and everything in between.
Because brave means knowing the danger - whatever
your age. Ages 3-10 years
Watersmeet
High St, Rickmansworth WD3
01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk
Fri 20 – Sun 22 Feb – The Little
Mermaid JR In a magical kingdom fathoms
below, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to
leave her ocean home to live in the world above. But
first, she’ll have to defy her father King Triton, make
a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula and convince
Prince Eric that she’s the girl with the enchanting voice.
Adapted from Disney’s 2008 Broadway production, The
Little Mermaid JR features the hit songs ‘Part of Your
World’, ‘She’s in Love’ and the Oscar-winning ‘Under
the Sea’.
Watford Colosseum
Rickmansworth Road Watford WD17
0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk
Wed 18 – Thu 19 Feb – Octonauts And
The Deep Sea Volcano Adventure
When there’s trouble under the sea, the Octonauts dive
into action! Get ready to embark on an exciting new
mission with the underwater adventure super heroes
Captain Barnacles, Kwazii and Peso, in the brand new
live stage show, Octonauts and the Deep Sea Volcano
Adventure. Visit strange new worlds full of mysteries to
unravel, with surprises around every corner this action
packed interactive show features music and all your
favourite characters live on stage for the very first time!
Octonauts and the Deep
Sea Volcano Adventure
What’s On
listings for
all the family
Compiled by Anna Blackshaw
To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next
What’s On listing (March/April 2015) send your entry by 30th January 2015
Email [email protected]. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.
www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk/RegularEvents for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!
January
Thu 1 – Sun 4 Jan - Design
Museum Collection:
Extraordinary Stories About
Ordinary Things (SE1) Discover key
designs that have shaped the modern world
and be inspired by this fascinating exhibition of
memorable objects from the Design Museum
Collection.
020 7403 6933 www.designmuseum.org/
exhibitions/2013/extraordinary-stories
Thu 1 – Sun 4 Jan - Longitude
Punk’d (SE10) Celebrating the creations
of wacky inventors, star-gazing scientists and
extremely elegant explorers of the 18th-century.
The Royal Observatory Greenwich have
commissioned nine UK ‘Steampunk’ artists to
create new works inspired by the technical
inventions that were presented to the Board of
Longitude between 1714 and 1828.
020 8858 4422 www.rmg.co.uk/visit/events
Thu 1 Jan – Sat 28 Feb - Guiding
Lights: 500 Years of Trinity
House and Safety at Sea (SE10) 500
years ago, a fraternity of London mariners was
given a charter by Henry VIII and became the
Corporation of Trinity House, with instructions to
improve the safety of navigation on the Thames.
Since then, Trinity House has looked after
pilotage, buoys, beacons and lightships and has
become the Lighthouse Authority for England,
Wales and the Channel Islands
020 8858 4422 www.rmg.co.uk
Thu 1 Jan - Sun 1 Mar - Drawn By
Light: The Royal Photographic
Society Collection (SW7) From
serene landscapes to exquisite nudes, this new
exhibition brings together over 200 extraordinary
highlights from the collection of the world’s
oldest surviving photographic society. Visitors
can see some of the earliest known photographic
images dating back to the 1820s alongside
contemporary works by some of modern
photography’s most influential figures. Suitable
for ages 12+.
www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Thu 1 Jan – Sun 8 Mar - Goodbye
Piccadilly – from Home Front to
Western Front (WC2E) Discover the
untold story of London’s Home Front during the
First World War at London Transport Museum;
how drivers took their buses to the Front to
support the war effort, how women advanced
into the transport workforce for the first time and
how Londoners came under deadly attack from
the air as total war came to the Capital.
020 7379 6344 www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/
exhibitions
Fri 2 Jan - Frozen Fridays (WD25)
Meet & greet, songs and photographs. Every
Friday from 12.30pm at Gambado Watford.
www.gambado.com/clubs/watford
Fri 2 – Sun 4 Jan - Digital
Workshop: Street Art (WC1B) Be
inspired by German art and design at The British
Museum, and then create your own ‘street art’ –
a piece of digital graffiti or design your own VW
Beetle. For ages 5+, 11am.
020 7323 8299 www.britishmuseum.org
Tue 6 Jan - Farewell to Christmas
(E2) Join in with the Geffrye Museum’s own
traditional burning of the holly and the ivy,
with carol singing, stories about Epiphany and
a taste of mulled wine and Twelfth Night cake.
This event takes place in the garden, so wrap
up warmly!
020 7739 9893 www.geffrye-museum.org.uk/
Thu 8 Jan – Sat 21 Feb - Urban:
Life in Watford by the Young
Curators of Watford Museum
(WD17) This exhibition follows the progression
and current state of urbanity in Watford. Put
together by the museum’s Young Curators aged
13-19, the pieces chosen reflect their views on life
in urban Watford. Thursday – Saturday, 10am to
5pm, admission free.
www.watfordmuseum.org.uk
Sat 10 – Sun 11 Jan - St Albans
Model Railway Exhibition 2015
(AL1) Over 20 working model railway layouts at
Alban Arena. Sat 10am-6pm. Sun 10am-5pm.
01727 844488 www.cmra.org.uk/stalbans.html
Sat 10 - Sun 11 Jan - Cracking
Codes (SE1) Can you decipher secret
messages? Go and join in this family activity at
HMS Belfast; intercept messages, map hazards on
our sea chart and even make up your own secret
code. 11am-12.30pm & 2-4pm.
020 7940 6300
www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast
Tue 13 Jan – Tue 10 Mar - Living
with a Teenager (HA1) It can be
exciting and satisfying helping young people
grow up into capable independent young adults!
During the sessions you will share experiences
and look at: Understanding and acknowledging
the needs of pre teens and teenagers; Practicing
ways of negotiating and setting limits; Finding
different ways to communicate effectively
Exploring peer pressure. 7-9pm every Tuesday.
0208 863 7319 [email protected] www.
hopeharrow.org.uk
Wed 14 Jan - A Walk in the Park
- NCT Hillingdon (HA4) A great way to
meet and socialise with other local parents while
getting some light exercise. Meet at 1pm in front
of the Willow Lawn Station at Ruislip Lido.
www.nct.org.uk/branches/hillingdon
Wed 14 – Fri 16 Jan - Digital
Illuminations (WD17) Beat the
January blues as buildings on the Parade in
Watford come to life in a spectacular display of
animation, shadow and light. Displays at 5.30pm,
6.30pm & 7.30pm.
www.watfordbigevents.co.uk/eventdetails?id=40
Thu 15 Jan - Haunted Doll’s
House Night Tour (E2) Explore the
Museum of Childhood in the dark, including
a torch-lit tour of Small Stories: At Home in a
Dolls’ House. Visitors can enjoy the Museum
bar and a screening of a film adaptation of M R
James’s chilling classic The Haunted Dolls House.
6.30–8pm.
020 8983 5200 www.museumofchildhood.org.uk
Fri 16 – Sun 18 Jan – The London
Model Engineering Show (N22)
A full spectrum of modelling will be on display
at Alexandra Palace, from traditional model
engineering, steam locomotives and traction
engines to Airfix kits, operational miniatures,
modern gadgets and toys. 2015 also sees the
return of Robot Wars. The popular Model Active
Zone encourages visitors of all ages to take
part. Over 50 UK & overseas model clubs and
societies will be represented competing to win
the prestigious Society Shield. Plus the leading
industry showcasing new products, special
promotions and proving advice.
www.londonmodelengineering.co.uk/
Sun 18 Jan - Paddington at
Filmsmeet (WD3) Filmsmeet presents a
season of films to be screened at Watersmeet
Theatre featuring crystal clear digital picture
quality and superb Dolby Digital sound. Go along
to see a screening of the film ‘Paddington’ at
10am, 1pm or 3.30pm. Filmsmeet takes place
from 9th Jan to 27th Mar - for a local cinema
experience, but with a difference!
01923 711063 www.watersmeet.co.uk/aboutwatersmeet-film-society/
Sun 18 Jan – National Winnie the
Pooh Day (WD6) The 18th of January
is National Winnie the Pooh day. Go down to
Aldenham Country Park to see Winnie the Pooh,
visit 100 Aker Wood, take a picnic and meet
Winnie himself! If you take a letter you can post
them to Winnie the Pooh and friends as you tour
100 Aker Wood.
www.aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk
Sun 18 Jan – Musical Sunday
(NW3) Go to the Jewish Community Centre
London to hear the sounds of stories…There’s a
showing of children’s animation ‘The Rescuers’
at 1pm. Then at 2pm or 3.30pm enjoy a family
classical concert performance of ‘Peter and the
Wolf’. There will also be a Crafternoon session
between 2&5pm where you can discover how
to create puppets of the characters – the wolf,
duck and cat. Materials, inspiration and guidance
will be provided. Then take your puppets home
and watch them come alive as you recreate the
concert in your own living room. For ages 2+.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
www.jw3.org.uk
continued on page 28 v
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
27
What’s On
continued from page 27
Mon 19 – Sat 24 Jan – Shred-aThon in aid of Peace Hospice
(WD18) Take your paperwork to the Shreda-Thon throughout the week at Humphreys
Data Management on Sydney Rd in Watford.
All confidential documents can be shredded
in confidence knowing you are using a data
protection registered company. A suggested
donation of £5 per sack will be donated to Peace
Hospice Care and there is no need to remove
stables or paperclips and the shredder will even
cope with lever arch files. The service is open to
the general public and small businesses - larger
loads can be handled by arrangement. Weekdays
9am-4pm & Sat 10am-4pm.
www.peacehospice.co.uk/
Tue 20 – Mon 26 Jan – Cancer
Talk Week (Various) Receiving a cancer
diagnosis is hard. Talking about it can be even
harder. Macmillan believes no one should face
cancer alone. During Cancer Talk Week they’re
encouraging anyone affected by cancer to talk
to them, ask for the support they need and
join them in being there for others. Support is
available online, in your area or you can talk to a
trained Skype buddy.
www.macmillan.org.uk/HowWeCanHelp/
CancertalkWeek/CancertalkWeek.aspx
Sat 24 – Sun 25 Jan - Introduction
to the Holocaust (SE1) A free discussion
and replica object handling session at the
Imperial War Museum. Designed as useful starting
point for families who wish to learn about the
Holocaust. Suitable for children aged 11 and above
but please note that the Holocaust Exhibition is
recommended for children aged 14 and above.
Sessions run at 11.30am & 2.30pm.
020 7416 5329, www.iwm.org.uk
Sat 24 – Sun 25 Jan – RSPB
Birdwatch (Various) You can take part
on your own or as a family, and you can even
take part in your local park if you don’t have a
garden. To get involved, just pick an hour over
the weekend of 24-25 Jan and tell the RSPB what
you see – it couldn’t be easier! Use an online bird
counting tool to record the birds as you see them
directly on your laptop, tablet or smartphone.
Just start the timer and once your hour is up all
you need do is press submit to send your results.
You can also look out for badgers, hedgehogs
and other creatures in your garden or local green
space.
www.rspb.org.uk
Sun 25 Jan – Winter Magic (NW3)
There will be a performance of ‘Once Upon a
Snowflake’ at the Jewish Community Centre. This
is a captivating and funny blend of puppetry,
shadow, storytelling and original songs suitable
for ages 3+. From 2-5pm is Crafternoon where
you can create your very own snowflake mobiles.
There will also be a sing-a-long of the Disney film
Frozen at 1pm.
www.jw3.org.uk
©National Maritime Museum, Greenwich
Thu 29 Jan – Flog It @ The RAF
Museum (NW9) Flog It, the popular BBC
one antiques series is coming to the RAF Museum
London. You are invited to bring up to three
antiques or collectibles along and have them
valued for free by the shows team of experts. If
selected for filming you might be in with a chance
of making some money by selling your items
at auction a few weeks later. Doors are open
between 10.00am-4.30pm.
0117 974 7839 [email protected]
www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london
Sun 8 Feb - Baby and Children’s
Market (NW6) De-clutter your nearly new
high quality baby and children’s items, sell it
in their markets and get 100% profit on market
day. Lots of stalls selling excellent quality kid’s
items from birth to 6 years. Plus a small selection
of unique businesses in the baby & children’s
industry showcasing and selling their products
and services all under one roof! All the events are
indoors at Salusbury Primary School. Pushchairs
welcome. 10.30am-1.30pm
www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk/
Sat 31 Jan – Mum2Mum Market
Nearly New Sale (HA1) Are you
pregnant and need to get ready for when your
baby arrives? Or are your little one growing too
fast and costing you a fortune?! Go to the award
winning Nearly New Sale and grab hundreds of
great quality bargains under one roof! It is in a
very busy location at Victoria Hall in Harrow Town
Centre, so make sure to go early to grab the best
bargains!
www.mum2mummarket.co.uk
Sun 8 Feb – Jungle Sunday (NW3)
This week’s Crafternoon session at the Jewish
Community Centre is The Animal Boogie and
Mask Making with Barefoot Books. This runs from
2-5pm and includes a rhyme time storytelling
session from 3-4pm and a Barefoots Book Fair.
There will also be a showing of ‘The Jungle Book’
at 1pm, so go along to the JW3 cinema and enjoy
all your favourite songs with brilliant sound on
the big screen.
www.jw3.org.uk
February
Sat 7 Feb - Crossing Borders
(SE23) Join in activities at The Horniman
Museum led by refugees and migrants including
art and craft and storytelling from around the
world. Organised in collaboration with Southwark
Day Centre for Asylum Seekers. 11am-3.30pm
020 8699 1872 www.horniman.ac.uk/visit
The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance
•Ballet classes for boys & girls aged 3-16
•Royal Academy of Dance examinations Results – Distinction - Merit
•Established 12 years
• Successful places at Royal Ballet School, Tring Park, Central School of Ballet & London Junior Ballet • Numerous cups/medallists – British Federation of Festivals
Classes are held in the Stanmore and Harrow Weald area
Suzanne Van Niekerk (RAD Qualified Teacher)
Tel: 020 8950 2457 www.vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk
“Develop poise, technique and expression through dance”
28
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
Sun 8 Feb - The Pied Piper
of Hamelin (SE1) Hear the London
Philharmonic Orchestra perform a new version of
this familiar legend written especially for families.
At the Southbank Centre at 12 noon.
www.southbankcentre.co.uk/
Mon 9 Feb - Relate Supporting
Others Course (HA1) This is a one
day course for those engaged in a helping or
supporting role privately or professionally. The
purpose of the course is to offer some of the skills
necessary for working one to one with individuals
and families. Run by Relate London NW at Harrow
Civic Centre.
020 8427 2801 www.relatelondonnw.org.uk
Wed 11 – Thu 12 Feb – Cirque
Berserk @ Beck Theatre (UB3)
Combining contemporary ‘cirque’ skills with
thrilling stunt action, Cirque Berserk is a dangerfilled spectacle that will amaze audiences of all
ages. Presenting the world’s most dangerous
circus act, the legendary Globe of Death, plus a
troupe of over 30 jugglers, acrobats, aerialists,
dancers, musicians and death-defying stunt men,
joined by Guinness World Record holding strong
man, Hercules and award-winning clown, Tweedy.
www.becktheatre.org.uk
Fri 13 – Sat 14 Feb - Valentine
Food Fair (WD17) Celebrate the season of
love with this special food based event adjacent
to the new home of Watford Market on the
Parade. There’s sure to be something to arouse
every taste bud, with special performances to
seduce the senses!
www.watfordbigevents.co.uk
Sun 15 Feb - Hillingdon’s Hidden
Talent 2015 (UB10) Hillingdon’s Hidden
Talent is a popular showcase for local talent
of all kinds – singers, street dance superstars,
comedians and much more! The show is very
popular with audiences so do book early if you
would like to go along and watch.
01895 673200 www.compasstheatre.co.uk
What’s On
Sun 15 Feb - Cut and Paste
(NW3) Pop-up adventures with a cut-out
paper world at the Jewish Community Centre.
There will be a production of ‘Pop-Up Flashback’
from 2-3pm & 4-5pm, where you can enter an
imaginative world of memories through poetry
and incredible pop-up books in this funny
and heart-warming adventure of complicated
families and growing up. There is also a Pop-Up
Playtime Crafternoon where you can create your
own pop-up books and greetings cards. Then at
1pm there will be a showing of the family film
‘Tales of the Night’.
www.jw3.org.uk
Sun 15 Feb - Around the World
With 12 Cellists (SE1) Imagine that 12
cellos break free from the orchestra and form
their own group to play melodies, rhythms and
harmonies all by themselves! At the Southbank
Centre at 12noon
www.southbankcentre.co.uk
Sat 21 Feb - Chinese New Year
(SE10) Celebrate the Chinese New Year of the
Sheep and British East Asian heritage with a day
of workshops and performances at the National
Maritime Museum. Go and discover how trade
by sea brought ideas, culture, language and
people from Asia to Britain. 11am-4pm.
020 8858 4422 www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/
events/calendar/chinese-new-year-2015
Sun 22 Feb – The Alternatives
Families Brunch (NW3) Head along
to the Jewish Community Centre for an event
dedicated to families in all their diversity.
Tickets include a slap up Sunday brunch, and
afterwards, kids can make family poetryportraits with artist Sophie Herxheimer, while
adults listen to National Book Award-winning
author, Andrew Solomon.
www.jw3.org.uk
Sun 22 Feb - Wedding Fair 2015
(HA5) Harrow Arts Centre annual Wedding
Fair returns! If you’re a bride to be, groom to
be or just love all things wedding don’t miss
out. Take friends and family and enjoy a glass
of champagne whilst taking a wander round
the stalls manned by local caterers, florists,
photographers, bridal shops and everything else
you need to make your big day perfect. Later
you can enjoy the spectacular fashion show with
local bridal stores and tailors.
020 8416 8989 www.harrowarts.com
Mon 23 Feb – Mon 16 Mar Relate Counselling Skills for Non
Counsellors Course (HA1) This is a
course for those in a helping or supporting role
privately or professionally. The purpose of the
course is to offer some of the skills necessary
in helping others - this course does not provide
a qualification in counselling. The course is
accredited by the Open College Network and
provides three Open College Credits at Level 2
or Level 3. It runs for 4 consecutive Mondays at
Harrow Civic Centre, and it is important that you
attend all 4 days.
020 8427 2801, www.relatelondonnw.org.uk/
Fri 27 Feb - Lates with
MasterCard (SW7) Visit the Natural
History Museum after hours and experience
London’s most unique Friday night out.
6–10.30pm.
020 7942 5011 www.nhm.ac.uk
Sat 28 Feb – Mum2Mum Market
Nearly New Sale (HA2) Head along
to the next award winning Mum2mum Market
Sale! Are your little ones outgrowing their
clothes, toys, books, prams, cots etc too quickly?
Declutter at the next nearly new sale at the
Beacon Centre in Harrow and turn in into cash!
Or alternatively go along to the sale and grab
thousands of bargains under one roof.
www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/book-a-stall.htm
Sun 1 Mar – Chinese New Year
Celebrations (WD17) Everyone is
invited to Watford Palace Theatre to join in
celebrating Chinese New Year. Enjoy an evening
of entertainment featuring professional and
community artists, organised for the first
time in collaboration with Watford Chinese
Association and Watford Chinese Centre for the
Older People.
www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk
Sat 14 Mar - The Parade Comes
Alive With The Sound of Music
(WD17) Choirs and traditional bands take
over Watford’s Parade! A choral celebration will
take over the Parade showcasing the talents of
many music groups. With a brand new piece
created especially for the event, as well as
performances of classic songs, this is certain to
be a musical hit.
www.watford.gov.uk
Feb Half-Term
Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb - February
Frolics Lambing Event (AL4) Go and
see newborn lambs every day of this special
lambing event at Willows Farm Village, with a
fun-packed programme for half-term, including:
farmyard animals, adventure play and Tristan
the Runaway Tractor. There is also plenty of
under cover activities with The Farmyard, JCB
Young Drivers Zone, Captain Chicken’s Egg
Dodge, NEW Toddler Town and Woolly Jumpers
indoor play barn. Plus the opening of the NEW
JCB Little Learners area.
www.willowsactivityfarm.com/february-frolicslambing-event
Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb - Tattoo
T-Shirts (SE1) Impress your friends and
family by designing your very own t-shirt,
inspired by traditional Navy tattoos at HMS
Belfast. 11am–12.30pm & 2-4pm.
020 7940 6300 www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hmsbelfast
Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb – Eggs, Bugs
& Rock n Roll (SW13) Love is in the
air and nowhere more so than at London
Wetland Centre. Go along to discover how
birds, bugs and mammals attract a mate, their
dating habits and what sort of partner they
make. And the Beatles aren’t the only ones to
make sweet music; discover how animals use
melody to make themselves more attractive.
The ‘Eggs, Bugs & Rock n Roll’ show is a fun and
fascinating look at how animals meet, mate and
mind the kids. After all, birds do it, bees do it,
even educated fleas do it – so go along and find
out how! Suitable for all ages over 8 years.
www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london/
Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb - Print it:
Truth and Memory (SE1) Roll up your
sleeves over Half Term and join the Imperial
War Museum in a free family printing activity.
Have a go at drawing your favourite artworks on
display in major exhibition ‘Truth and Memory:
British Art of the First World War’ and then
transfer your design into a print you can keep.
11.30am and 2pm start.
www.iwm.org.uk
Sun 15 Feb - Out of the Shadows
(WC2H) Drop-in family session at the
National Portrait Gallery. Create a pop-up
photographic studio to dress up, make up
stories and explore family portraits. 1-2.30pm
for age 3+ and 3-4.30pm for age 7+.
020 7306 0055 www.npg.org.uk
Sun 15 – Sun 22 Feb - Dig up the
Dead (SE1) Grave robbing is rife at The
London Dungeon this February half term when
the live action attraction will be over-run by
The London Burkers, a criminal gang of grave
robbers famous for making a less-than-honest
living digging up the dead.
0871 423 2240 www.thedungeons.com/london
Mon 16 Feb - Annie at Filmsmeet
(WD3) Head along to Watersmeet Theatre for
a showing of the film ‘Annie’ on the big screen.
Showing as part of Filmsmeet, a season of film
at the Theatre. 11am & 2pm.
01923 711063 www.watersmeet.co.uk
Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb
Camp Beaumont
Multi-Activity Day Camp
(NW7/HA6)
Offer over 40 different activities at
Mill Hill School and St Helen’s School,
Northwood, for ages 4 – 16 years from
8.30am – 5.30pm. Great early booking
offers and discounts available.
01263 823000 info@campbeaumont.
co.uk www.campbeaumont.co.uk
Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb – First World
War Airfix Make and Take (NW9)
The popular Airfix make and take workshops
will return to the RAF Museum for the half
term period. Take on the Red Barons Albatros
or fight your way to victory with the classic
British Sopwith Pup. All paints, glue, instructions
supplied with Airfix each kit.
www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london
Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb – Knit for
Britain From Above (NW9) Hook,
stitch and yarn bomb a model aircraft during
the February half term at the RAF Museum. All
materials will be supplied so whether you’re an
experienced purler or a novice crochet wannabe,
you’ll be welcome to go and try your hand at
some good old fashioned knitting.
www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london
Mon 16 - Fri 20 Feb – Watford
Palace Theatre Holiday Projects
(WD25) Join Watford Palace Theatre at Orbital
Community Centre during February half term for
an exciting week of theatre making. Daily from
10am – 4pm.
www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk
Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb - Half Term
Arts & Crafts (WD6) Head along to
Aldenham Country Park for some arts and crafts
activities during half term. For ages 4-12, from
11am-3pm.
020 8953 9602 www.aldenhamcountrypark.
co.uk/
Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb - A Humble
Cup of Tea (SE10) Tea is an everyday
essential for many people, but what is it worth?
Visit the National Maritime Museum to share
your stories of having tea with your family
and friends, and discover the surprising history
behind how tea first came to Britain from China
by exploring the Traders Gallery.
020 8858 4422 www.rmg.co.uk
Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb - Half Term
Activities @ V&A Museum of
Childhood (E2) Includes Chinese New
Year, Miniature Bookmaking and Miniature
Wallpaper.
020 8983 5200 www.museumofchildhood.org.uk
Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb - Half Term
Activities- Friendship (WC2H)
Activities at the National Portrait Gallery
inspired by Sargent: Portraits of Artists and
Friends. During the week there will be a range
of ticketed and drop-in activities for ages 5+ ,
11am-4pm.
020 7306 0055 www.npg.org.uk/whatson.php
Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb - Half Term
Holiday Activities in Holland
Park (W8) The Ecology Service runs a
scheme of environmental activities for children
in the half term holiday utilising the park and
the wooded Wildlife Area. The fun packed
programme for 5-10 year olds is likely to include
sessions on birds, orienteering, spring, creepy
crawlies, animal tracks and plants. Sessions
are organised by the RBKC Ecology Service and
the full programme will be published on the
website. 10am-12noon and 2-4pm.
020 7938 8186 www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecology
Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb - Half Term
at the Horniman Museum (SE23)
A week of activities and events to welcome in
Chinese New Year and the Year of the Sheep.
020 8699 1872 www.horniman.ac.uk/visit
Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb - Lantern
Making (HP4) Create your own handcrafted and decorated lantern at Ashridge
Estate. 10am-4pm.
01442 851227 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
ashridge-estate/things-to-see-and-do/events/
Tue 17 Feb – Mulan (UB10) Film
screening of Disney’s animated film at the
Compass Theatre. A young woman secretly
takes her father’s place in the army in order to
save his life and her adventures lead to her to
become one of China’s greatest heroes. 11.00am
01895 673200 www.compasstheatre.co.uk
Wed 18 Feb - Chinese New Year
Craft & Performing Workshop
(UB10) The Chinese New Year inspires the
February 2015 Half Term holiday activity at
Compass Theatre. The Craft and Performing
Workshops are created especially for 5 to 11 year
olds and last 2 hours. They book up fast and
have a limited number of spaces, so advance
booking is essential. Each run at 10am & 1pm.
01895 673200 www.compasstheatre.co.uk
Thu 19 Feb - Family Discovery
Morning at St Albans Cathedral
(AL1) Fascinating trail packed with activities,
followed by a fun craft session. Ages 3-11
(adult must stay), meet in the North Transept.
From 10am-12.30pm, arrive before 11.30am to
complete all the activities.
01727 860780 www.stalbanscathedral.org
Fri 23 May – Sun 1 Jun - Barham
Park Fair (HA0) Barham Park fair returns
for another fun filled, thrill seeking week. Go
and enjoy the sunshine over the Half Term
break!
www.irvinleisure.co.uk/
www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk
for many more local events and
diary dates for the whole family!
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
29
Parenting
What’s up with my parenting?
Why is it always my child?
H
ave you been the parent in a
supermarket queue whose toddler
is screaming in their pushchair
while people around you give
disapproving looks, tutting and muttering
loudly enough for everyone else nearby to
hear what they think about the situation?
What did you do when you were
in this position? Did you remain in the
queue? Perhaps you left the store without
buying what you needed because you felt
embarrassed? Or perhaps you tend to avoid
certain public places because being there
with your child fills you with dread and
anxiety about their behaviour in public and
how it reflects upon you.
With so many pairs of eyes watching
you it can be hard to remain calm with the
people around you as well as with your
child. It can help to go through an initial
checklist in your mind. Might your child
need a drink or something to eat? Have they
got their favourite toy to hand? Might they
be in some discomfort? Does their nappy
need a change? Have they misunderstood
something going on in the environment?
Might the lights and noise be overwhelming
for them?
It may be that knowing your child tells
you that all these needs have been met
and they are simply having a tantrum. In
these circumstances there are a variety of
strategies that you can try. At the height of
a tantrum trying to communicate with your
child will be difficult. If you can, wait for a
lull - there will be one. Then one approach
you can use is distraction, for example
offering your child to help you place items
on the counter. Alternatively it may work
better for you to distract your own mind,
for example by counting down from 20 and
repeating this until things calm down and
you are ready to continue with your shop.
It also helps to accept that even with
the best intentions it is unlikely that you will
always get it right for you and your child,
either in your own opinion or anyone else’s.
It is okay to make mistakes, to learn and to
develop confidence in one’s own instinct
and ability.
The truth is that it is unlikely that you
(or anyone one else) will always know
precisely what makes your child tick, or
what makes them sometimes display less
desirable behaviours. Does it make you a
failing parent? Of course not. Does it mean
that your child will always be singled out for
their ‘problem’ behaviour? I sincerely hope
not. Does it mean that your child cannot
be supported to change? Definitely not.
Sometimes simple steps become a plan,
learning brings about shifts in behaviour,
confidence overcomes fear, and the dynamic
of a relationship sees positive change in a
short space of time.
So, if you are experiencing difficulties
at the moment take the first step – reach
out for support. With a helping hand you
can beat the fear, take control of unwanted
behaviours, and walk confidently into places
you have not dared to for a while :)
Irena Amber-Freeman,
The Behaviour Coach
For over 15 years Irene has worked
with children, young people and
adults with challenging behaviour,
including as a Behaviour Specialist for
children under 5 with Brent Council
and now as a Behaviour Coach.
www.thebehaviourcoach.com
Why not try our…
Mini chicken and broccoli pies
1 Preheat the oven to gas mark 6/ 200°C/180°C fan
oven. Heat a large, nonstick frying pan, mist with low fat
cooking spray and cook the chicken over a medium heat
for 10 minutes or so, turning occasionally, until it’s well
browned. Remove from the pan and set to one side.
Chicken thigh contains only
55 more calories per 100g
(raw weight) than breast meat but it has much more
flavour — it’s absolutely delicious in stews, bakes and pies.
2 Add the shallots to the same pan and cook for 5
minutes or until golden, adding a splash of water if it
looks as if it might stick. Add the garlic and thyme and
cook for a further 2 minutes.
• 7 ProPoints per serving • ProPoints value of 31 per
recipe • 344 calories per serving • 10 minutes to prepare,
50 minutes to cook • Serves 4
Low fat cooking spray
400g (14oz) skinless, boneless chicken thigh, cut into
large chunks
250g (9oz) shallots, halved if large
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
300ml (1/2 pint) light chicken stock
125g(41/2oz) broccoli florets, cut into bite sized chunks
2 tbsp cornflour mixed with 4 tbsp water
150g (51/2oz) half fat crème fraîche
100g (31/2oz) filo pastry
30
NORTHWEST (LONDON) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
3 Add the stock and broccoli and return the chicken to
the pan. Bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir
in the cornflour paste and simmer for about a minute until
thickened. Stir in the crème fraîche and season to taste.
4 Spoon the pie filling into 4 x 200ml ovenproof dishes.
Cut each of the
filo sheets into quarters. Scrunch
the
pieces and use to top the pies. Mist with low fat spray,
season and bake for 20 minutes or until golden and
bubbling. Serve immediately with steamed vegetables.
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Families North West is designed by Lisa Bibby and printed by Warners. Copyright Families North West Magazine 2015. 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
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31