Families London South West November 2011

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Issue No. 211 ISSN 1354-9553Est. 1990

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November 2011

• News

• Reviews

• Theatre / Pantos

• Competitions!

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2 November 2011®

Families SW – useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in SW London

TUMBLE TOTSAt Tumble Tots we endeavour to provide theopportunities, through a challengingenvironment of active physical play, forchildren to explore fully and develop theirphysical capability, especially their motorskills of balance, agility and co-ordination,whilst at the same time stimulating theimagination and having fun. Classes alsoinclude music, songs and rhymes, and aresplit into different age groups starting at sixmonths up to 7 years.

Venues: Clapham, Dulwich, Blackheath & Battersea.Contact: Julia Forrest. Tel: 020 8464 4433

[email protected]: Various—phone for details in your area.Ages: 6 months to 5 years.

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04-05 Local news & information

06-07 Community SpiritFamilies takes a look at the green and ethical events and issues that are shaping where we live

10-11 We CAN heal our children, part 2Caring for your child’s Psychological Health

12 Children’s healthConcentrate on the problem

13 EducationDo you say ‘SSSS’ or ‘SUH’ for snake?

16-17 The baby pageGo to sleep please...

18 ParentingA dad’s point of view

19 Top tips for family skiing

19 COMPETITIONS

20 Battling with the bullying

22 Book reviews

23 Make Christmas decorations

26 Ice Rinks

27- 33 What’s On• Pantomimes• Theatres, exhibitions, • Events, • Galleries, • Diary dates and much more

Families® South WestAll content ©Families 2011www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.ukTel: 020 8696 9680 Fax: 020 8696 9679Editorial: [email protected] News: [email protected]/artwork: [email protected] ads: [email protected], diary dates, whats on info:[email protected] issue: December 2011 Deadline: early November

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Contents NOVEMBER 2011

SouthWest 12

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16-17

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32-37

La Sylvaine

Children’s health

Go to sleep please...

25Chilly Powder

New Wimbledon TheatreDick Whittington

November 2011 3

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Inclusion in these pages is always FREE compiled by Joanna Parry

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Get creativeThe Pottery Café hasproudly opened its brand newstudio & shop on theNorthcote Road, SW11. Thenew store, which has a largepottery decorating studiowhere you can decorate yourown hand made pottery, alsoretails the entire range ofEmma Bridgewater pottery.You can personalise yourpottery by painting free handor by using the Pottery Café’sunique range of easy-to-usedecorating sponges –everything from hearts & starsto cupcakes, dinosaurs &fairies. Customers’ pottery isthen fired for collection a fewdays later. Check out their popular ‘Baby’s Wednesday’, during which parents painting baby’sfootprints on pottery receive a complimentary tea or coffee. All inclusive party packages are alsoavailable. 153, Northcote Road, Battersea SW11 6QB tel 020 7223 3388 www.pottery-cafe.com

Children have a quacking timeA nursery in Wimbledon hascelebrated its new look andname with a special visit fromsome ducks from Deen CityFarm and the Deputy Mayorof Merton, Councillor ChrisEdge. The children at theCo-operative ChildcareNursery made new friendswhen three ducks came alongto their revampedWimbledon nursery. TheNursery, formerly the BufferBear nursery, has sponsoredthe ducks at Deen City Farmas part of its commitment tolink with communityorganisations. "The children really entered into the spirit of the day with some amazing fancy dressoutfits,” says Nursery Manager Julie Latham. “They loved seeing the ducks and will be able to followtheir progress at the charity-run community farm in Merton Abbey.”www.thecooperativechildcare.coop

local newsBooks to treasureforeverAre you lookingfor a magicalgift for the littleangel in yourlife? Send themoff to fly withdragons andsave a kingdomin the pages oftheir very ownadventure.Guaranteed todelight parentsand children alike, the personalised tales fromSnapdragon Books have all the charm of atraditional storybook. Imaginatively re-written for each child, each book can includesiblings, friends, grandparents, pets and a hostof other personalised details. For tiny tots ordeveloping readers, this is a unique gift thatmakes reading even more fun and willbecome a treasured family keepsake. £17including delivery, www.snapdragon-books.co.uk or call 01271 378444.

Climbingthe wallsHornsby House playtimenow has a new dimension,with the arrival of atraverse climbing wall inthe playground. Animmediate hit withchildren of all ages, theclimbing wall is not onlyhugely popular at playtimeat the WandsworthCommon school, but alsomakes great use of a formerly blank wall. The hand and footholds are specially designed so childrencan climb across the wall while staying a safe distance off the ground, meaning that no ropes orspecial equipment are required, while a carpet of artificial grass provides a soft landing area. Theclimbing wall was funded by the Friends of Hornsby House Association, as well as donations fromfamilies of Year 6 children who left the school in summer 2011. www.hornsby-house.co.uk

Dancing starsIt’s been another successful year for LaSylvaine and Wendy Bell Schools, with a50% Distinction to RAD Upper Grade Results,and two of their students now trainingprofessionally. Their end of year show wasalso a great success, with profits of the showgoing to fund the education of Aissatou Bahfrom Guinea, who is now entering Year 3 atmedical school, and also to the ChelseaTheatre where a new wooden stage is beingbuilt and dance studios are being refurbished.www.lasylvaine.co.uk

10% off toys atJust WilliamsDATE FOR THE DIARY: ChristmasShopping Day -1st December 2012: 10%

off all items and lots of fun and activitiesfor children (10am - 3pm) and late nightshopping till 9pm!Just Williams - Clapham South, 8b Balham Hill(adjacent to The Bathstore), SW12 9EAwww.justwilliamstoys.com - 020 3538 [email protected]

November 2011 5

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To advertise Call 020 8696 9680

Meeting theirheroesBoys from local school Northcote Lodge metJames Cash and Bertie Portal and theirwonderful boat this autumn, before theyleave the UK on 4th December to rowacross the Atlantic to raise money for RaisingThe World charity. The boys have alreadyraised £15,000 for the charity, which helpschildren from the world’s poorest countrieswith extreme facial disfigurements, such as conjoined twins Rital and Ritag Gaboura who recentlyunderwent four operations at Great Ormond Street Hospital to successfully separate them. The boysfrom Northcote Lodge were amazed by the boat, which has the school crest and a boy’s name onthe side. For more information visit http://facingtheatlantic.com and www.facingtheworld.netwww.northcotelodge.co.uk

Catch the expressCheck out fun pre-school music classes inSouthfields, Putney and Wimbledon withMusical Express. Classes for under and over2s run Monday-Thursday at SouthfieldsMethodist Church, and a drop-off class forover 3s is on Wednesdays at St Luke’s. Theclasses are a time for parents and children tolearn new songs and rhymes using a mix ofpuppets, action songs and percussioninstruments. Under new ownership of localMum Ali Palmer, the classes are expanding totwo new venues: Friday mornings 10.15-11amfor under 2s and 11.15am-12pm for over 2s atHarrington, 154 Wandsworth Bridge Road,SW6, and Wednesday mornings 9.45-10.30amfor under 2s and 10.45-11.30am for over 2s atEddie Catz in Colliers Wood. [email protected] or call 07808587606 to book a free trial session.www.musicalexpress.co.uk

Dance for thelittle onesWould your pre-schooler like funkydance classes? Learn co-ordination,rhythm and great moves with newDiddi Dance classes all over SouthWest London. Appealing to both girlsand boys, the classes are fun, relaxedand explore a range of different stylesof dance from Bollywood and tap toCharleston, hip-hop and ballroom, andnow you can try before you buy with afree trial session. Diddi Dance parties are also available. FSW readers get 20% off a Diddi Danceparty booked before 31st May 2012 and/or 20% off a 4 or 8 week block of classes booked before31st January 2012. For more information call Clair on 07877 664809. www.diddidance.com

Looking for part-time work?3P is a new west London based Search and Selection agency that are lookingfor part-time and flexible work in the west London. Launched by twoworking mums, ‘3P Part-Time Professional People’, aims to take thetrend for part-time working and build a successful business out of it. 25% ofthe population works part-time but the traditional associations with low paid,low status roles are disappearing. Employers are realising that there is a hugepool of talent that can be tapped into if they are prepared to offer flexibilityin more senior roles. Owned by experienced Recruitment Consultants,Amanda Reuben and Samantha Hibbert, 3P serves the business communitiesof west London and along the M4 corridor. 3P taps into a huge talent pool ofaccomplished senior professionals who are based in west London and lookingfor a better work/life balance. 3P’s candidate pool is handpicked and basedlocally. Call them on 020 8248 3088 www.3psearchandselection.co.uk

Do you know wholoves you?A local mum has put a new twist ontraditional children’s flash cards to help kidsget to know their family members better.Lucy Morley from Balham has launched WhoLoves Me? making personalised cards forbabies and young children to help themrecognise and learn about their extendedfamily. “The days of living down the roadfrom your family are largely gone, with many children only seeing grandparents, aunts, uncles andcousins a few times a year,” says Lucy. “I created these cards after I realised it was more importantfor my son to be able to identify his grandparents as opposed to a ball or sheep!” A great Christmasgift. Individual cards cost £1.99 or packs of 8 for £11.99 or 16, £17.99. www.wholovesme.co.uk

Ethopia schoolThriving pre-preparatory and prep schoolBroomwood Hall raised £63,400 for charityKid’s Company last term. Now its attention isturning to founding and running a school inEthiopia, with all funds raised throughout theyear to be used for this new and excitingproject, and the Parents Association has lots ofevents planned from cake sales to Gift Fairs.“We are very excited about starting a school inEthiopia,” says Katharine Colquhoun, JointPrincipal. “It is to be built and run by local staffand we hope to start links between the childrenin Africa and our pupils in south west London.”www.broomwood.co.uk

Keep it traditionalIf you’re looking for the highest standard ofcare in the finest of premises, look no furtherthan Blundells Traditional TeachingNursery. A private day nursery, housed in acharming period building, Blundells providesgood quality day care for children aged 18months to five years. Primarily a teachingnursery, Blundells is committed to the aim ofproviding a friendly caring environment inwhich children can learn through instruction,encouragement and lavish amounts of praise,resulting in a sound basis for future schoolingand a security and confidence that willhopefully remain with the children throughouttheir lives. And just as importantly, Blundellswill ensure your child has fun! • The Old Court, 194/196 Sheepcote Lane,Battersea SW11 5BW, 020 7924 4202, www.blundellsnursery.co.uk

Amanda Reuben

Samantha Hibbert

6 November 2011®

visit www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Community spirit

How to make a positive impacton local lifeCompiled by Samantha Chippindale

Feeding the birdsIt’s getting colder, and the birds arehungry…

Instead of an after school muffin-baking session with yourchildren, why not cook something up for the birds? It looksset to be another bitingly cold winter, so the birds need allthe fattening up help they can get. Keen birdwatcher BillOddie offers a fun introduction to bird feeding on his websitewww.billoddiesbirdfood.co.uk, with tips on what differentBritish birds need and what species you might see in yourgarden or outside your kitchen window. Recipes are easy andeffective, such as Bird Honey Sticks. You could also visit theRSPB site, www.rspb.org.uk for a comprehensive selectionof seed mixes, suet balls and even live mealworms – not forthe fainthearted – which are favoured by sparrows, robinsand tits.

Curtain’s up!Take a role in the next exciting chapter ofthe Tara Theatre’s development

The Independent on Sunday called Tara Theatre “The most culturallyopen minded troupe in Britain,” and since it opened in Earlsfield in 2007, ithas been offering audiences engaging and thought-provoking shows. It hasa strong line in children’s theatre, often with an East/West cultural focus.This December, for example, the classic pantomime gets revamped inHardeep Singh Kohli’s Bollywood Cinderella (December 1st–24th).Tara depends on volunteers to help with anything from set painting tofront of house roles (helpers get to see the productions for free!) It alsooffers work experience for school leavers keen to see how a theatre ismanaged and marketed. To be part of the on-going productions at Tara,or to offer donations towards its planned expansion, visit www.tara-arts.com. And remember, the best way to support a local theatre issimply to go to it.

Good woodsHelp stop our ancient woodland being built on

What connects Wandsworth Common, Clapham Common Woodland andRavensbury Park? They all have five-star ratings on the Woodland Trust’sVisitWoods page, so when it comes to protecting our woodlands, we aren’t justtalking about the countryside. The Woodland Trust’s ongoing campaign to make the government rethink thecurrent National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) has forced a key shift inpolicy. However, a loophole in the NPPF has allowed the loss of ancientwoodland in almost half of the Trust’s designated ‘threat cases’ in the pastdecade. While consultation papers are being considered in parliament, you havethe chance to lobby your MP directly and find out where he or she stands onthe issue. Visit www.woodlandtrust.org and follow the campaign link.

Bill Oddie cooking

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November 2011 7®To advertise call 020 8696 9680

Community spirit

Growth spurtGet in trim for a moustached fun run in Battersea Park

Readers have until November 27th to grow a fine, bushy moustache. If that’s not possible – thegirls might be challenged – then a pencilled in one will do for the Mo Run through BatterseaPark in aid of The Prostate Cancer Charity. The 5km run is flat, scenic and manageable – evenwith a handlebar moustache weighing you down. Costumes are encouraged, and £2 from every£16 entry fee goes to the cancer charity. Registration is by November 24th; visit www.mo-running.com.

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Rays Playhouse

Mums know bestA Fulham play centre showsdetermined parents are a force tobe reckoned with

Ray’s Playhouse in the Sands End area of Fulham, a dailydrop-in centre for under-fives and their carers, is aninspiring success story, and evidence that parent-powercan make a real difference. When the existing Playhouse was threatened with closure,it took only days to secure some 800 signatures in protest.After a year of petitioning and vigorous fund-raising, thecentre, now known as Ray’s Playhouse inacknowledgement of the bequest from the local BenderFamily Trust, is again full of happy children painting, playing,glueing and making sandcastles.To remain open, Ray’s Playhouse, now a registered charity,relies on raffles, grants and bequests. Special fundraisingevents are great for raising money, but require volunteersas well as donations. If you think you can spare some timeand energy, or have some good quality jumble to offer,contact Ray’s Playhouse to get involved. Diary date:children’s toys and clothes sale, November 5th,10.30am–1.30pm. Visit www.raysplayhouse.org

8 November 2011®

07787 821525


Little RascalsYour local traditional toy shop for ages 0-6

Visit our enticing shop at 140 Merton Road South Wimbledon SW19 1EH020 8542 9979 Open Tues to Sat 9-5.30

(Between Polka Theatre and South Wimbledon Tube)

•Jellycat, •BigJigs, •John Crane, •Wheelybugs, •ShooShoos, •Grobags©, •Greeting Cards, and more!

Soft and wooden toys frombrands including:

Cygnets Swim Schoolchildren's swimming lessons with a difference...

Lessons for children from birth to 7 years old.

Park Walk, SW10 and Queen's Park, NW10

Karen Benson020 8840 3010, 07742 [email protected]

10 November 2011®

We CAN heal our children- Part 2

According to Young Minds, thechildren’s mental health charity, one inten school-age children (five to 16) hasa diagnosable mental health disorder(like anxiety, depression or challengingbehaviour). This figure, the charitypoints out, accounts for about threechildren in every classroom.

Different eyes“It is good to remember that children see the worldthrough very different eyes to adults,” explains DrAlison Murfett, an NHS child psychologist whoalso has a private practice at the MaplePsychological Services clinic in Chelsea. “Situationsthat to us are normal, are completely new to youngchildren, and so can seem strange and frightening.”As an adult, big life transitions like a new baby ormoving house might be stressful, but manageable.To a child, however, even changing teachers can beoverwhelmingly hard to adjust to.

Because children do not have the maturity toexpress what is happening to them emotionally,the first warning sign to look out for, says DrMurfett, is a change in behaviour. If a child isstruggling academically for example, they mightstart clowning around in class to cover up feelingsof shame, maybe not wanting to disappoint theirparents or to avoid being teased as ‘stupid’. Simplebehavioural changes like this, if not picked up intime, can lead to bigger problems later on.

One of the best preventative measures, says DrMurfett, is making a set time each day when youare available to talk with your child about anythingat all, as part of your daily routine. Of course, ifyou have several children and a job too, thisrequires commitment. The important thing is thatthey know you are there for them and will listen.

Things that go bump inthe nightChildren often develop irrational fears, such as ofthe dark or imaginary monsters under the bed.The parenting support charity Family Lives,suggest asking your child to list their fears and thentogether explore each one, gently and non-judgementally. It is important to avoid trivialising orlaughing off your child’s fears; for in the child’smind, they are very real indeed.

“Some children learn irrational fears – like a spiderphobia – from noticing their parents’ or others’behaviour,” says Putney hypnotherapist MarygraceAnderson, who is often asked to treat children.“They might see something scary on TV or have afrightening experience, like being pawed by a large,barking dog, which can then get blown out ofproportion in the vivid imagination of their minds.This can then lead to sleeping problems, phobias andanxiety.”

“The plus side to children’s wonderful imaginations isthat they come up with the most brilliantly creativesolutions,” Marygrace adds. “In fact, their opennessand receptivity make them a delight to work with.One little boy put together a hybrid of his favouritesuperhero characters to help him create his ownunique strength to overcome a phobia of flying.”

Creating a ProtectiveBubbleIf your child is feeling nervous and having troublesleeping (or even if they are not), MarygraceAnderson suggests theprotective bubble technique.Before sleep, ask them to rubtheir hands together quickly,generating heat. Next, havethem take a deep breath andas they exhale, suggest theyimagine a protective bubblearound them so nothing canget in and they will sleep all night with wonderfuldreams. You can help them create the bubble(rubbing your hands together too for dramaticeffect) starting at the head and working down. Askthem what they would like in their bubble(favourite toys, people or story characters) to helpthem feel safe and protected.

Caring for your child’sPsychological HealthBy Helena Foss

As parents, we all hope we will not end up with a ‘problem child’. Yet, by their very nature, children are susceptible toemotional distress; so some will, inevitably, ‘have problems’.

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Family dynamicsIf the problem is persistent however, there may bedeeper set causes within the family system itself.“If there is a ‘black sheep’ in the family, or one childwho seems to be going off the rails,” says localfamily constellations therapist, Chris Williams,“then it is possible they are ‘carrying’ somethingunresolved within the family, holding some pain thathas not been fully felt.”

Constellations work is a cutting edge and rapidlyevolving branch of psychotherapy that uncoverssubconscious dynamics within family systems. It isbased on the premise that any unresolvedemotional pain from previous generations doesnot simply disappear into the ether, but getspassed down ancestral lines as a kind ofburdensome psychological inheritance.

Within a workshop group, a client will choosedifferent people to play the role of each familymember (living or dead), either in their birthfamily, or their own current family. Moving the‘representatives’ around like large chess pieces,the client is asked to intuitively place them in apattern or constellation, in relation to each other.How the process actually works remainssomething of a mystery, but, once in place, therepresentatives typically report strong physical oremotional sensations. Through this, subconsciousfamily dynamics can be revealed with startlingclarity.

One couple who approached Chris for help withtheir own relationship, were also concerned fortheir young daughter, their fourth child, who wasstruggling at primary school, seeming unable to‘find her place’: “When we set up the constellation,the couple remembered they had lost a baby at justtwo weeks old, before their daughter was born. Ittranspired that rather than grieve this tragedy, theyfocused on having another child straightaway. Ineffect, their daughter was carrying their grief, she wasin both her and her dead sibling’s ‘places’ at once. So,we brought in a representative for the dead child,giving them their rightful place in the family. Back athome, the couple made sure they spoke about theirchildren’s forgotten sibling and I later heard that thetroubled daughter – who was really their fifth child –became much more settled.”

Hidden conflictIt seems our British tradition of keeping a lid onemotions, leaving conflict brewing and unspoken,does not bode well for future generations. Onecase Chris encountered was that of a divorcingcouple, whose children effectively ‘divorced’ eachother too (the daughter went to live with themother and the son with the father). The boy wasdisplaying very difficult behaviour at school. Whatthe mother found most upsetting though, was thatshattered sibling relationships appeared to besomething of a family tradition. She herself, had notspoken to her sister in decades and a similarconflict preceded it in her parents’ andgrandparents’ generations.

“It was a long and intensely emotional piece of work,”Chris says of the constellation. “But we were able towork through the generations and bring the conflict toresolution. Afterwards, the mother was able to takeresponsibility for her part in her divorce. Within weeksher children were speaking and within months, courtcases had been dropped and the legal and financialdifficulties had been settled. The family haveestablished amicable relations and the boy is nowdoing well at school.”

We all know that children do indeed pick up onadults’ stress, but this takes the phenomenon to awhole new level. “The so-called ‘problem child’ isoften performing a very loving act,” Chris addsphilosophically, “by remembering what has beenpreviously excluded and carrying the burden for thefamily, carrying what others couldn’t bear to look at.”

Further information• Dr Alison Murfett, child psychologist:

www.maplepsychology.com • Marygrace Anderson, hypnotherapist:

www.mghypnosis.co.uk• Chris Williams, family constellations therapist.

Tel: 07905 623330. Email: [email protected]

• Young Minds: www.youngminds.org.ukYoung Minds Parents’ Helpline (free and confidential): 0808 802 5544

• Family Lives: www.familylives.org.uk Family Lives ‘Parentline’ (free and confidential): 0808 800 2222

Visit 345 Nursery where “The quality ofteaching and learning is outstanding”

(Ofsted 2008).

Children become independent inquisitiveand motivated in this rich and vibrant

learning environment. Great outdoor space!

Options include Afternoon School, LunchClub and Early Bird Club.

www.345nurseryschool.co.uk

Please contact us on 020-8870-8441 [email protected]

Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity Road, London SW18 3SA

Clapham Family OsteopathCranial specialist

Julia Finlay B.Ost M.Sc (Paed Ost), Registered Osteopath

BabiesChildren (inc special needs)Mothers pre and post natal

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Contact: [email protected] Tel: 07779 017965

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®

Children’s health

To read How to choose a school or other education articles go on www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk12 November 2011

When ADP can developChildren develop critical language skills betweenthe ages of 6 months and 3 years. Languagecentres within the brain learn to map out soundsand store it for language processing, and when achild starts reacting to words with a smile or startsspeaking its first words, it is effectively associatingthese sounds with meanings.

If a child suffers from constant middle ear infectionduring this critical period then the ability toprocess language and speech can be affected.Sounds which normally become imprinted in thebrain’s memory and language centres are notproperly established. The mishearing happensbecause the brain recognises aural informationdifferently to what they actually are. A goodexample is found when children can't differentiatebetween the words thirteen and thirty - whilsthearing can be perfectly normal their brain cannotprocess those sounds accurately due to theirsimilarity. This inability of the brain to processwhat is heard results in the Auditory ProcessingDisorder condition.

Recognising the problemAPD is often difficult to diagnose in children asthey may have other learning difficulties such asdyslexia, attention deficit disorder or dyspraxiawhich may mask the condition. ADP also cannotbe established with standard hearing tests but canonly be diagnosed using specialist audiology testing.

Children with APD have also been observed to:

• Have trouble paying attention to andremembering information presented orally

• Have problems carrying out multi-stepdirections

• Have poor listening skills

• Need more time to process information

• Have low academic performance

• Have behaviour problems

• Have language difficulty (e.g. they confusesyllable sequences and have problemsdeveloping vocabulary and understandinglanguage)

• Have difficulty with reading, comprehension,spelling and vocabulary

Without proper intervention, those with APD canfind it confusing to interpret verbal information.This problem is further exacerbated when in anoisy environment or when there are competingsounds around. In a classroom situation, if the childis not at the front of the class or paying fullattention, distracting sounds can make learningincredibly challenging.

Where to get helpSome of the ways in which help for APD canbe offered, as suggested by NationalInstitutes of Health, are:

• Environmental modifications such as classroomacoustics, seating and placement

• Auditory memory enhancement, a procedurethat reduces detailed information to a morebasic representation. Informal auditory trainingtechniques can be used by teachers andtherapists to address specific difficulties

• Exercises to improve language-building skills canincrease the ability to learn new words andincrease a child's language base

The Raviv Practice London, a practicecommitted to providing innovative therapies forboth children and adults experiencing problemswith learning, offers a structured languageprogramme called FastForWord to help with ADP.FastForWord is a computer-based earningprogram based on 25 years of research, and canbe used any where in the UK as the results can bemonitored by the therapist remotely. Go towww.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk or [email protected] for moreinformation.

The practice is also investigating a new series ofexercises for parents, teachers and therapistsworking with ADP, known as Bal-A-Vis-X. Theprogramme is already used in the United Statesand is specifically for those looking to make adifference to children with conditions such asAPD, AD(H)D, Aspergers’ and children withconcentration problems. Find out more athttp://www.bal-a-vis-x.com/About.htm or go toour website www.familiessouthwest.co.uk towatch a You Tube clip.

• The Raviv Practice London, Northolt VillageCommunity Centre, Ealing Road, Northolt UB5 6AD.07766 837 616, www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk

Concentrate onthe problemLearning difficulties therapist Usha Patel talks to Families South West aboutAuditory Processing Disorder

Auditory Processing Disorder, alsoknown as APD, is a condition wherethose with normal hearing constantlymishear what is said. Whilst APD is of aneurological nature and may beinherited or caused as a result ofdevelopmental problems, research hasalso shown that early childhood earinfections can be a significantcontributory factor in causing it. Mostimportantly, ADP is a new condition andthe longer it is left the morecompounded the problem can become.

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This conversation is taking place all over the UK.Children are learning to read with SyntheticPhonics and learning a new way of saying the lettersounds. Whether learning through Jolly Phonics,Letters and Sounds (the DFE programme), orother phonic programmes, a whole newgeneration is growing up on ‘mmmm’ and ‘nnnnn’and ‘ssssss’. Children are learning ‘pure sounds’ or‘precise pronunciation’. This may leave parents somewhat bewildered asthey were not taught to read in this way.

It is a fact: saying separate sounds in words doesnot come naturally to us. But in any classroomtoday you will hear a funny ‘robot talk’: ‘c’ ‘a’ ‘t’for cat and ‘d’ ‘o’ ‘g’ for dog etc.

So why are teachers insisting onteaching the ‘precise pronunciation’ ofthe sounds of the alphabet? Why isthis important?

In Synthetic Phonics the letters on the pageprompt sounds which are then pushed or‘blended’ together. In order to recognise a wordwhen you are ‘blending’ sounds together, you needto hear them as they appear in the word. Takethe word ‘mat’: the sounds in the word are not‘muh’ ‘a’ tuh’. If you push the sounds ‘mu’ ‘a’ ‘tuh’together - you get ‘muhatuh’ (not ‘mat’). Thesounds in the words are ‘mmmm’ ‘aaaa’ ‘t’. Weneed to say the sounds precisely to recognise theword ‘mat’.

The reverse process happens when children aretaught to spell. First they need to ‘segment’(isolate) the sounds in the word and write lettersthat represent those sounds. Again, if theypronounce them inaccurately they are likely tomisspell them.A classic example is when a child spells the word‘jumper’ as ‘jump’. If they pronounce the letter ‘p’as ‘puh’ they may think they don’t need to add the‘er’ at the end of the word.

So precise pronunciation is at the very core ofSynthetic Phonics.

How can parents get to learn precisepronunciation? Where can they hear these new sounds? The bestplace to look this up is on You Tube. Search‘Sounds of the English Phonic Code’ and you willbe able to hear me say the sounds. This video clipis specifically designed to help parents practice thesounds that children are taught in school. Visitwww.phonicbooks.co.uk you can download a freechart with the corresponding spellings for thesounds. You will also see books that your childrencan read independently and successfully whenlearning to read with Synthetic Phonics.

The best time to do it would be when the kids arein bed – then you won’t have them looking overyour shoulder correcting you!•[email protected]

Education

November 2011 13To advertise call 020 8696 9680®

Do you say ‘SSSS’ or ‘SUH’ for snake?

South West London’s street jazz experts,offering classes in a range of commercialdance styles for tots, kids, teens and adults.BE.Inspired!

07545 697352 www.bedance.co.uk [email protected]

BE.There: Classes held in Wandsworth and Clapham area

Street Jazz, TapMusical Theatre

Tots DanceParties

Focus onphonicsA new report has been published with MPsclaiming that the focus on phonics in schools willturn reading for children into a “dull exercise”.They are concerned that children will be turnedoff reading by the Government’s new literacy driveand the Coalition policies that have been designedto make schools use back-to-basics teachingmethods. In order to improve literacy in England,the Government want primary schools to usesynthetic phonics, with children sitting a ‘phonics

test’ after only one year at school. However, theAll-Party Parliamentary Group for Education isclaiming in its report that too much emphasis onthis method could affect pupils’ learning and leadto a decline in literacy. They also claim they arejoined in this opinion by the educationestablishment. According to the latest figures,around 16 per cent of children leave primaryschool without being able to read to an acceptablelevel, with one-in-10 boys having only the readingskills of a seven-year-old. “Literacy is the key tothe curriculum,” said Fabian Hamilton, Labour MPand chairman of the Parliamentary group.“Pursuing phonics without considering whether pupilscan comprehend what they’re reading, and withoutpaying any attention to whether children enjoyreading, will switch children off. Learning to read –especially a complex language like English – cannotbe reduced to a mechanical process.” However,Nick Gibb, the Schools Minister, has rejected thegroup’s conclusions, saying “High-quality evidencefrom across the world shows that the systematicteaching of synthetic phonics is the best way to teachbasic reading skills, and especially those aged five toseven.”

By Tami Reis-Frankfort, Reading Specialist and Director of Phonic Books

“One does not say ‘suh’ Mummy! Miss Kay says it should be ‘SSSSS’. We must say it properly.” Another parent stands corrected.

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14 November 2011®

Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools

WWW.DAWMOUSE.COM

There are now two established MontessoriNursery schools in Fulham bearing theDawmouse name. The original DawmouseBrunswick in Haldane Road, SW6 7EUand Dawmouse St Peter’s at St Peter’sTerrace, SW6 7JS.

Both schools offer a wide range of Montessori equipment andhave outdoor play areas. They will offer a safe, stimulating andactive environment in which children can have fun and achieve.The broad curriculum covers all areas of the Early LearningGoals and includes science, drama, cookery and music lessons.Project work will give the children scope for creative developmentas well as an increased understanding of their world.We insist on our staff being Montessori trained teachers.

For a prospectus and a visit to view the schools please contact :

www.dawmouse.com or speak with Miss Emma 020 7381 9385

Bilingual education since 1996

The French Nursery SchoolFor children from 2 years old to 5 years old. (Toddler group from 1yr)Morning or afternoon sessions availableFull time sessions 9h - 15h

The Belgravia Nursery SchoolBilingual Nursery school French/ English. For children 2-5 years. (Toddler group from 1yr) Part time session 9h - 12h Full time session 9h - 15h • 15h35-17h

The Spanish Nursery SchoolSW7 and SW1The Spanish out of school club for children from 2 to 5 years old.Toddler Group from 1 year old

SW7 Queen's GateSW1 KnightsbridgeGroup of international nursery schools

All schools have native language teachers, excellent facilities and lovely outside playground / garden.

For a brochure please call Marie-Laurence Edmonstone020 7259 21 [email protected]

November 2011 15®

16 November 2011®

Baby page

• Establishing a bedtime routine. Aroutine provides babies with security and comfortand can encourage them to sleep for longer spells.Establishing a routine can be tricky with anewborn, but try to get a loose schedule started,especially at bedtime. Your baby will be morerelaxed if they know what's coming, and the morerelaxed they are, the more likely they’ll fall asleepeasily. Before bedtime let your baby get any pent-up energy out of their system with tummy time ora kickabout, then follow it up with a bath andlullaby. Dim the light when you’re feeding and puton a CD of children's favourites. Whatever you do,do the same thing every night.

• Learn the signs that your baby istired. If they’re fussing, grizzling, crying, pullingtheir ears, rubbing eyes or is especially clingy,they’re probably sleepy.

• Teach the difference between dayand night. In the daytime, play with your baby.Chat and sing to them, keep their room light andbright. Don't try to cut out the radio or washingmachine. At night, stay quiet when you feed, keeplights and noise low and hopefully your baby willwork out that night-time is for sleeping!

• Give your baby a security object,blanket or stuffed animal. A great way to maketeddy a favourite is keep it near you so it becomesmum-scented. Stretch one of your t-shirts overbaby’s mattress - when they startle awake thesmell of mum can calm them.

• Put your baby down awake. If they’vebecome sleepy on the breast or bottle, rousethem slightly before putting them in their cot.How to put your baby to sleep is a matter ofdebate but whether you use controlled crying orco-sleeping, it’s important to find the way thatworks for you. I suggest giving your baby a chanceto fall asleep on their own. It might be OK to rockthem to sleep in the middle of the day but not somuch fun at 3am! If in the first few weeks yourbaby is allowed to fall asleep during a feed orstroked until they are asleep, they’ll soon dependon it.

• Teach your baby to settle itself. Ifyour baby cries, allow them to cry for 3 minutes,then comfort them but don't pick them up. Letthem cry for 5 more minutes and return again.Extend the time you wait before returning eachtime and your baby will learn to soothe itself andfall asleep without assistance. It’s difficult listeningto your baby cry but this method does usuallywork, although it may take a few days.

• The settle-and-leave method. If youdon’t want to leave your baby to cry, pick them upand talk to them until they stop screaming (or tryto settle them without picking them up, which iseven better). If they cry again pick them up again.It might take 100 goes, but you’ll get there!

• Stay by the cot. Some parents choose tostay with their child as they fall asleep but unlessyou want to do this forever gradually move furtheraway. After a week you're sitting by the door and,finally, you need no longer stay. If your baby isupset, go to them and say "night, night", then goback to your place in the room.

• Be consistent. Whichever approach youtake, it's no good doing it one night and notbothering the next.

• You're not just doing it for you.'Training' your baby to self-settle at night will havepositive effects on their general outlook duringwaking hours. Letting your baby settle themselvesgives independence, confidence and security.Remember, your child won't love you any less inthe morning!

• Remember the advice on cot death.SIDS is rare and the exact cause isn't known, butresearchers think there are likely to be a numberof factors that can affect a baby at a vulnerablestage of development. http://fsid.org.uk advisesplacing baby on their back to sleep (not on thefront or side). Don’t let your baby get too hot, andkeep their head uncovered. Place your baby withtheir feet to the foot of the cot or use a babysleeping bag. Don’t use a duvet or pillow until babyis over one year old. Never sleep with your babyon a sofa or armchair and don’t let anyone smokein your home.

Ensuring your babystays asleepNow that you’ve got your baby to sleep, the nextstep is to get them to sleep all night long.Swaddling often helps with younger babies, whileolder infants like to sleep "loose," with coveringsthat allow freedom of movement. Some babieswake easily at sudden noises so make sure theircot doesn’t squeak and turn the phone to silent!Also, try playing repetitive sounds such as taperecordings of waterfalls or the ocean.If you’re concerned about your child's health seekadvice from a doctor. Sometimes there aremedical causes of nightwaking, such asgastroesophageal reflux (GER) or allergies.

Go to sleep, please…By Joanna Parry

It’s the first question new mums ask – how can I get my baby to sleep? “The moment I put him down, he just howls!” Wehave all, at some time or other, rocked our baby to sleep, pushed them up and down the hall, put them in the pram andpounded the pavements to get them to sleep. But it doesn’t have to be like this. Here are our top tips to encourage yourbaby to sleep.

How can I get my baby to sleep throughthe night?Every baby is different. Some sleep through from the start, others won't sleep more than an hour or twoat a time. Although there’s no way to force a baby to sleep through the night, there are steps you cantake that can help baby not only sleep through sooner, but also establish healthy sleep habits for life.

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Baby page

November 2011 17To advertise call 020 8696 9680

Once you’ve got itsorted, it goeswrong…Sometimes when a baby is around six to ninemonths old, even if they’ve never had sleepproblems, they may start waking up at night. Thiscould be because of separation anxiety, teething orreaching milestones in physical and mentaldevelopment.

• If your baby wakes in the night to practise theirexciting new skill of sitting up, teach them howto lie down again. Then stick to your chosenroutine for getting them back to sleep. Thesudden burst in development isn't the same asa growth spurt, so feeding them during thenight won't help them sleep better.

• They may sleep through if you move bedtimeearlier, as well as moving their afternoon napearlier and making it shorter.

• Install blackout blinds if your baby wakes early.If they still wake early, don’t turn on the lights,settle and leave them as if it was still the middleof the night. It might take a while but they’ll getthe message!

Get in theprofessionalsIf nothing’s working it might be time to call in thecavalry. Sleep deprivation can seriously affect thehealth of both mother and baby and there areagencies that offer specialist help with sleepproblems. Sometimes referred to as ‘sleeptrainers’, these night nannies will observe sleeppatterns and implement routines to help babysleep.Local companies include www.ginasnannies.comwww.ghchildcare.comwww.nightnannies.com www.nappyvalleynannies.co.ukwww.abbevillenannies.co.ukwww.nannyagencylondon.co.ukwww.bespokenanny.comwww.childcarespecialists.co.ukwww.likeminders.com

Sleepy timeproductsIf you need a boost, check out thesefantastic products:

• Grobag Baby Sleep Bagwww.gro.co.uk, £26.Dream bag www.thedreambag.co.uk, £14.99

• keep your baby snug in SwaddleMewww.summerinfant.co.uk, £9.95, GrobagSwaddle, £11.95, or Swaddlepod, £12

• night light from Slumber Buddies, £20

• Grobag Egg room thermometer, £22.50

• Gro Anywhere Blackout Blind, £29.99, orthe Magic Blackout Blind, £35.99. Wish I’d had one!

• Cuski Baby Comforters stimulate theawareness of familiar scents. Sleep with yourCuski, pass it on to your little one and they’lldrift off to sleep feeling the closeness of you.Officially approved by the NHS. £16.25,www.cuski.co.uk

• put a few drops of Sleepytime Room Aromainto a bowl of warm water in baby’s room.Developed by Jo Tantum, one of the UK’sleading baby sleep specialists, it fills the nurserywith lavender, roman chamomile and othercalming essential oils and soothes into a restfulsleep. £7.99, www.4little1.com

Available at www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk,www.mothercare.com, www.babiesrus.co.uk.

Top tips• make the last feed of the

day a big one

• don't rush to baby at everywhimper - many of theirnoises are attempts to fallasleep

• incorporate baby massageinto your bedtime routine

• make sure baby’s room isn’ttoo hot

• place a warm towel on thesheets to warm baby’s bed,remove it just beforeputting baby down

• tank up your baby duringthe day – feed them at leastevery 3 hours

Remember, a happy mother equals a happy baby.Learning good sleep habits early on will stand bothof you in good stead for the future, and your babywill appreciate the consistency and predictability.Don’t expect miracles right away, but persevereand be consistent. Good luck!

Helpful websites For support call the Cry-sis helplineon 08451 228669(9am to 10pm, seven days a week).www.nhs.uk www.contentedbaby.comwww.4little1.comwww.babycentre.co.ukwww.bbc.co.uk/health

For children (2-5)Full/part time vacancies

* Bright well-resourced centre* Pre-school education guaranteed* Flexible hours/days* Children in small groups* Offers French, dance & swimming* Positive emphasis on physical

education* Very good OFSTED report

To view call 020 8675 8838Limited spaces

Yukon Rd. Balham Hill Estate, Balham Hill, SW12 9DN

Yukon Day Nursery

1. There’s no such thing asquality timeI learned early on in my parenting that the often-quoted notion of “Quality Time” was bunk. Theonly thing that matters to our children is“Quantity Time” since the only time they willopen up is when they are good and ready. Youcan’t schedule time with your children the way youmight with a business appointment and themoments that will surprise you the most are whenyou least expect it. There is no such thing asquality time, only quantity time.

2. GratitudeAbout five years ago, I survived a car crash thatshould have left me dead or worse. A man Igreatly respect, Dennis Prager, has often said thatthe single most important ingredient to happinessis gratitude. That accident reinforced, verydramatically, his words to me. Too often we areliving our lives waiting for that something we thinkwill make us happy rather than counting theblessings right in front of us.

3. My kids aren’t me, in spiteof sharing the same DNAI learned a valuable lesson about parenting before Ibecame a parent, when I was a Big Brother to alittle girl. We shared nothing in common. I learnedto bond with her in spite of our differences andfound that experience to be the best prep coursefor parenting my own two boys, who also turnedout to not fully share my interests. Too manyparents think that just because their children sharetheir DNA (which of course is not the case inadoption) that their children should share theirsame interests. All this does is set a pattern of hurtand disappointment for both child and parent.Don’t do this. Support what your child isinterested in rather than push him or her to dowhat you want them to do.

4. Words that hurt, wordsthat healThe power of words can be as harmful as thepower of a fist. With the advent of moderntechnology, we’ve seen the damage that a simpletext can do to a middle school child whensomething hurtful is spread around about him orher. And, like a leaf blown in the wind, it can’t beretrieved. It is incumbent upon us as parents toteach our children to watch what we say, what wewrite, and what we text and to model goodbehaviour in this regard and not gossip and notdisparage others with casual disregard.

5. Best friend orbest parentThe job of being a parent isnot being our children’s bestfriend, yet too many parentsconfuse the two and try to betheir children’s buddy. Toachieve this buddy status, theyforego being their best parent.That may mean not beingstrict, not holding highstandards, or relaxing themwhen their children pout orthrow a tantrum. Being thebest parent you can be maysometimes mean your son ordaughter doesn’t like you at agiven moment. So what.Being liked isn’t your job.Being their best dad ormum is!

6. Do women need men?A popular feminist slogan of the 1960’s and 1970’swent something like: “A woman needs a man like afish needs a bicycle.” “We’ve come a long way, baby”is another slogan, I believe, from a cigarette thatwas marketed to women during the same generalera. More bunk. Women need men just as muchas men need women. It was foolish to thinkotherwise back in the hippie days and it’s foolish tothink so now. The fact that women now can earnas much and can do what men can do just levelsthe playing field but doesn’t change our inherentnatures.

7. A story of givingOne of the blessings of my writing and radio showis meeting people from all over the world. I met agroup of children from a girl’s school in Ghana,Africa, through my “A Dad’s Point-of-View”Facebook page. My family began sending thembooks and soon my readers and radio showlisteners were also sending them books, toys, andother things. We all learned the blessings of givingand charity and how when we give, we get somuch more than we ever could expect.

8. There are no perfectfriendsMy mother taught me this basic lesson and I kepton forgetting it as I kept on wanting my friends tobe perfect. Just like me. Ha! I also saw how myown boys got into spats with their friends oversilly and unrealistic expectations of their friends.My mom always said that if you wanted perfectfriends you wouldn’t have any.

9. The family dinnerI read somewhere that the children from familiesthat share meals together suffer fewer problemsthan those that don’t. The family dinner is essentialglue for my family and something that belongs as aritual in every family. As our children grow olderand their friendships and extracurricular activitiesintrude more and more upon their lives, it is easierto allow the family dinner to drift away. Weparents must insist on having a family dinner atleast once a week, period.

10. Walk a mile in my shoesEmpathy is a simple but very important word.How often do we pass a homeless person withouta thought or glance? Or hear a friend’s problemand promptly forget about it? Until you really do asthe song says and walk a mile in someone’s shoes,you can’t really know what he or she may be goingthrough. Too often we are caught up in our ownproblems, big or small, to pay attention tosomeone else’s problems, which I suggest, areusually bigger than ours. A little reflection uponsomeone else is a good thing to do now and then.

It is good for your soul.I hope these short reflections from these columns giveyou some pause to consider the blessings in yourlives, maybe to think what you might do to help afriend or neighbour, or to simply hug a loved one andoffer a kind word or thought. For me, it’s on to thenext hundred.• Article courtesy of www.superdads.co.uk Superdads,helping men everywhere make the transition intofatherhood and beyond !!

18 November 2011®

Parenting

A dad’s point of viewBy Lee Bates, www.superdads.co.uk, no nonsense advice for parents.

To celebrate writing his hundredth “A Dad’s Point-of-View” column for superdadsLee looked back at the previous 99 and choose ten strong ideas among them andbriefly share them with you. Is he great?

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Families South West top tip? Being in the mountains is so amazinglybeautiful: go for long walks in the snow, enjoy the scenery and .. regularhearty snow ball fights ! •For more details about Chilly Powder see www.chillypowder.com

Top tips forfamily skiingholidaysPaul and Francesca Ayres moved to Morzine 18 years ago,started a family ski company (Chilly Powder) and had 3children. We asked them to tell us about the mostimportant things you should consider when taking yourfamily on a ski holiday.

� Don’t rush to high altitude resorts because children cansometimes get altitude sickness. It’s also unsafe for babies under theage of 1 to go up in high cable cars because of the air pressure.

� Finding a resort with an easy, short airport transfer will be ablessing! Also check that your airport transfer company is properlylicensed and has the child car seats you’ll need.

� While your on your transfer vehicle from the airport to yourholiday accommodation, try to sit as near to the front of thebus as possible - then there’s less chance of the windy roadsmaking your children sick.

� It’s pointless wasting money on expensive ski clothes for yourchildren - they’ll only outgrow them by next year! Borrow what youcan from friends or try TK Maxx in September and October! LibbyDe rougemont, in Clapham, has the most amazing stock of nearlynew or end of range ski clothes, goggles, hats, gloves, après ski thelot! See Diary Dates.

� If your children are attending ski school or childcare, makesure you sew their names in to their clothes so they don’t get mixedup with others.

� If you’re taking a pushchair to use during your holiday, takeone with large wheels. Standard chairs will be impossible to pushin the snow but it might be that your holiday company has a stash ofthem for you to borrow.

� Don’t forget that sun block is just as important on a winterholiday as it is in the summer. Take sun block rather than spray sothat you don’t have to take your gloves off to rub it in!

WIN a Meccano MotorisedTool Box!Perfect for little buildersaged 5+, they can lift,dig, scoop and sit backand watch their machinesmove around theirbuilding yard. Flip openthe handy tool box andthey can create all thevehicles they’d find on abuilding site including adigger, bulldozer andexcavator so the fun canjust keep on going!www.meccanouk.co.ukTo enter, go to: FamiliesOnline.co.uk/competitionsTerms and Conditions apply. Closing date for the competition is 3rd January 2012.

Competitions

Enter our competition towin a bundle of toys fromWOW worth over £100!

WOW would like to give away a bundle of seven toys worth over £100 to one lucky winner in time for Christmas.

There will be 7 exciting toys in the prize bundle suitable for children from 18 months to 5 years:

To enter, go to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/competitions Terms and Conditions apply. Closing date for the competition is 1st December 2011

Eddie Catz soft play centre in Putney will be the first place inthe UK to try out new WOW Toys in a purpose built play area.Under 5’s are able to play freelywith a selection of WOW’sbattery-free, high quality, British-designed, developmental toys,which are guaranteed favouriteswith all pre-school children.London-based WOW Toys isone of a new breed of toycompanies totally committed toinnovation, design and quality inthe pre-school area.

You can visit Eddie Catz Putneyseven days a week from 9.30am-6pm. There is no need to bookand you pay admission at thedoor. www.eddiecatz.com

WOW toys at Eddie Catz

Chilly Powder

Win exclusive £1,000 SHREK

prize! see page 7

20 November 2011®

Bullying occurs when a person is picked onrepeatedly by an individual or a group withmore power, either in terms of physical

strength or social standing. Bullies pick on thepeople they think don't fit in, maybe because ofhow they look, how they act (if they are shy orwithdrawn for example), their sexual orientation,race or religion.

Bullying can take the form of physical attack,psychological control or verbal insults. Forexample, popular groups or cliques often bullypeople by excluding them or gossiping about them(psychological bullying). They may also taunt ortease their targets (verbal bullying). Unfortunatelybullying like this is made easier today due to theaccessibility of new technology. It is far easier tobully via email, facebook and mobile phone textmessages, and do it anonymously. It even has itsown name – Cyberbullying.

Whatever form it takes however, the effects aredevastating. Studies have shown that being bulliedincreases the risk of low self-esteem, stress anddepression or anxiety. Bullies themselves are alsoat risk. Bullies often become rejected by theirfriends and fail to achieve at school. Their violentbehaviour often increases, and it is estimated that1 out of 4 elementary-school bullies have acriminal record by the time they are 30. So whatcan we do to help stamp out this behavior?

Equip your child with the skillsto help them avoid being bulliedGet your child to identify teachers and friends thatwould help them if they were worried about beingbullied. Encourage them to buddy-up and avoidplaces where there are no other pupils or teachers- go to the bathroom with a friend, eat lunch in agroup, sit at the front on the bus, etc.

Explain to your children about cyberbullying andnot to respond or forward threatening emails.“Friend” your child on Facebook and set upproper filters on your computer. Limit their socialmedia friend requests to only those people withwhom they have a positive relationship offline.Make the family computer the only computer forchildren, and have it in a public place in the home.If you decide to give your child a mobile phone, letthem know you will be monitoring their textmessages, and insist that phones are also kept in apublic area, by a certain time at night, to eliminatenight-time bullying and inappropriate messaging.

Keep talking to your children and work with themto handle any bullying. Tell them not to fight back,just calmly tell bullies to stop or walk away.Practice scenarios at home where your child learnshow to ignore them and/or develop assertivestrategies. Tell them not to take any of it personallyand remind them of their worth and value.

Spotting a bully and helpingthem stopStudies indicate that most bullies are motivated bythe pursuit of status and affection. They gain statusby dominating their victims, and choose childrenwho are not well-liked to ‘win’ friends. One of themost effective ways to help them stop bullyingtherefore is to report their actions and tell themabout it. Give them consequences and setboundaries, e.g. tell them if the behavior doesn’tstop then you will report him or her. Encouragethem to talk to an adult and help them find betterways to deal with their anger such as taking up asport, a hobby, and developing positive friendships.Tell them to put themselves in the shoes of theirtargets and ask how they would feel. Try to getthem to understand the impact of their actions andto change them.

Whilst we cannot erase bullying, we can equipourselves with the skills to spot it and tackle it,thereby preventing further damage and tormentamongst our young children. Preventing andstopping bullying helps us achieve a safeenvironment where children can thrive withoutbeing afraid.

Common signs of bullying to watch out for:• Your child coming home from school with cuts,

bruises or torn clothing. • They are hungry or have walked home, when

you know they had lunch money and bus fare. • Their work at school starts to slide, • They are reluctant to go to school or pretend

to be unwell, • Their eating habits change or they don’t sleep

well,

Battling with the bullyingBy Elisabeth Dolton

As our children grow and take part in more activities, they will come into contact with a great number of diversepeople. Unfortunately, as this happens, bullying seems to be on the rise. With anti-bullying week approaching, wetake a look at what steps we, as parents and carers, can do to stamp out bullying.

National Anti-Bullying Week is from 14th to 25th November 2011Visit www.antibullyingweek.co.uk for a collection of free resources helpingto combat bullying.

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22 November 2011®

Book reviews

Reviewed by Louise Turner

The Good GreenChristmas By Christina Goodings Published by Lion Children’s BooksISBN: 0745961797. Paperback. RRP £5.99

With this book, the green effect touches Christmasand helps children to understand the importanceof recycling while making a selection of fun, easy-to-assemble Christmas crafts and decorations.Using natural materials, leftover materials andrecyclable materials it includes simple instructionsto make cards and tags, boxes, bunting, baubles,sweet treats, stockings and an eco-star. There are16 traditional items to make in all and each colourpage is clearly illustrated with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions and a photograph of the endproduct (always useful when trying to explain tochildren what they are making!).Families Rating: 5 out of 6

Christmas Tunes byAnthony MarksPublished by Usborne PublishingISBN: 0746095880. Spiral Hardback. RRP £12.99

If you haven’t got anyChristmas music yet,then this is theperfect book foryour children to startwith! It includes 37simple to playChristmas carols,songs and otherseasonal music. Thepieces have beenarranged for voiceand piano but can beplayed by manyother melody instruments such as recorders, flutesviolins and guitars. There is also a metronomemark telling you what speed to sing and play andeach song comes with a short paragraph explainingits musical background.

You can listen to the pieces on the UsborneQuicklinks Website at www.usborne-quicklinks.com and type in “Christmas tunes”.Families Rating: 6 out of 6

Winter NatureActivities forChildrenBy Irmgard Kutsch and Brigitte WaldenPublished by Floris BooksISBN: 0945803850. Paperback.RRP £12.99

This book focuses on traditional handicrafttechniques using materials drawn from nature.Amongst other things, children learn how to dyeand spin wool, weave willow baskets, carve wood,mold clay and press juice encouraging them tokeep traditional processes alive and helping themto preserve nature. Each page has colourphotographs of children taking part in the activitiesas well as sketches to show you what to do. Thechapters are monthly so December focuses onAdvent crafts, January covers wool and Februaryincludes woodworking and clay. It’s best for olderchildren (as tools are used!) and the practicalactivities are designed to be done indoors andoutdoors. Families Rating: 5 out of 6

Dear Santa By Amy HusbandPublished by Meadowside Childrens Books ISBN: 1845395026. Paperback. RRP £5.99

Designed as an envelope addressed to Santa withbright colours, fun pictures and clear text this bookis perfect for 4-6 year olds. It starts with a letterfrom Santaaskingchildrenwhetherthey’ve beengood andwhat theywould like forChristmas.The rest is aseries offunny lettersfrom a littleboy calledMichael to Santa asking for presents and trying toexplain the various mishaps involving his pet dogBruno. What Michael can’t explain is why hismother is painting the nursery pink and is feelingtired all the time, will there be a mysteriousaddition to Christmas?Families Rating: 5 out of 6

Reviewed by Jan Deykin

From Trash toTreasurePapermaking By Arnold E. GrummerPublished by Storey PublishingISBN: 9781603425476. Paperback. RRP £12.99

I like the idea of making paper but have nevertried, so was keen to get going. It transpires thatyou need quite a lot of equipment but we bravelycobbled together enough to have a go andeventually produced our first red sheet. We wereimpressed: this really is a complete handbook forpapermaking with very clear instructions and lotsof photographs. There are different effects toexperiment with and projects to make with yourpaper. It is quite complicated though, sosomething for the creative teen rather thanyounger children.Families Rating: 4 out of 6

Let’s Make SomeGreat ArtBy Marion DeucharsPublished by LaurenceKing PublishingISBN: 9781856697866.Paperback. RRP £12.95

This was pounced onby my eleven year oldarty daughter andwhisked away. Similarin appearance to the‘Doodle’ series, whichwe love, it has lots ofsuggestions for whatto draw (what are these people dreamingabout?). The huge difference is that it is alsopacked with information about artists and showsyou how to recreate their style: for example,taking a line for a walk like Klee or painting yourown Pollock. It also has excellent strategies fordrawing things including birds, bicycles and 3-dshapes, with space to experiment. Families Rating: 6 out of 6

®Starting school? Tips to make it easy See www.familiesSouthWest.co.ukNovember 2011 23

Making ”stained glass” decorations

Sewing SchoolBy Amie Petronis Plumley & AndriaLislePublished by Storey PublishingISBN: 9781603425780. SpiralBound. RRP £12.99

We love this book! It starts withsewing lessons that includechoosing fabric, cutting outpatterns and types of stitches.Next are 21 appealing sewingprojects for children such as soft‘stuffies’, ‘hold-my-stuff’ bags andpresent ideas. It also shows howto mend clothes, toys and recyclefabric. My eight year old daughtermade (with a little help) a ‘friend’for herself and an apron as apresent and we were really pleasedwith the results. Very nicelypresented with step by stepphotographs, it promises to keepus busy for some time. Families Rating: 6 out of 6

Doodleday By Ross CollinsPublished by Gullane Children’sBooksISBN 9781862338166. Hardback. RRP £10.99

Harvey ignores his Mum’s vaguewarning about not drawing onDoodleday and draws a huge fly. Itcomes to life and wrecks thekitchen. How could he stop it? Bydrawing a spider of course, butunfortunately the spider prefersHarvey’s Dad to the fly. Hewonders if a drawing could eatyou? Harvey draws increasinglybigger things but they cause havocuntil his Mum draws somethingmore terrifying. A fun idea withclever wordplay, this is a nicelyillustrated picture book withHarvey’s drawings shown as crayonoutlines. Families Rating: 5 out of 6

24 November 2011®


26 November 2011®

Christmas activities, ice rinks,Santas’s Grottos and more…

Where isSanta?We know how important FatherChristmas is for a toddler— Joanna’s Grotto Listing will bepublished in our

What’s on newsletteron 15th Nov.

To subscribe go towww.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/

subscribe

IceSkatingWith prominent Londonlandmarks providingspectacular backgrounds, iceskating is fast becoming a‘must do’ family festive activityand rightly so! Don’t wait forDecember to have somegood old fashioned fun.

Hampton Court Ice skating rink

Our Holiday activities Listing will also beavailable in our What’s on newsletter. Organise your shopping around your child’sart & craft workshops, camp or sportingactivities.

To receive our What’s on newsletter go to

www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/subscribe

Log on to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.ukto see recently updated listings. Download a copy of Families South Westshould you fail to pick up your regular copy.

• Natural History Museum4 Nov 2011 – 8 Jan 2012Set within the historic Victorian grounds of theNatural History Museum, the Ice Rink has becomean integral part of London’s winter scene since itfirst opened in 2005. Attracting beginners andadvanced skaters alike, as well as those simplywanting to bask in the beautiful atmosphere, theimpressive 1,000 square meter ice rink is one ofLondon’s must-see winter attractions. Decoratedwith 76,000 twinkling fairy lights that adorn thesurrounding tall trees and with a backdrop of oneof London’s landmark locations, the NaturalHistory Museum Ice Rink adds a touch of romanceto a crisp winter’s night. www.nhm.ac.uk 0844847 1576

• Canary Warf 13 Nov 2010 – 20 Feb 2012The Canary Wharf Ice Rink, returns for its sixthyear and transforms Canada Square Park into theperfect winter destination. Private lessons areavailable for newcomers so whatever your level ofexperience, you can confidently take to the ice.www.canarywharficerink.com

• Tower of London19 Nov 2011 - 8 Jan 2012Nearly 1000 years after William the Conquerorfounded the Tower of London, the dry moatbeneath the Outer Curtain Wall of the Tower willonce again host a breath-taking ice rinkCombine Christmas activities and Londonsightseeing with a quick spin on the ice bypurchasing Visit the Tower of London ice rinkMoat Cafe for food and drink when you’re notgliding around the ice rink, or take advantage ofspecial free viewing galleries to watch the skaters. www.toweroflondonicerink.com 0844 871 8814

• Hampton Court26 Nov 2011 - 3 Jan 2012The historic red brick palace at Hampton Courtprovides an impressive festive background forLondon ice skating this Christmas and New Year.Enjoy festive refreshments from the Frost FayreCafe, serving seasonal food and drink throughoutthe ice skating season - perfect for when you'veworked up an appetite on the outdoor ice rink atHampton Court. Hampton Court ice rink will besurrounded by authentic historic decorations. Seehow the festive season was celebrated from 1550to 1950. www.hamptoncourticerink.com. 0844871 8815

• Somerset House22 Nov 2011 - 22 JanSkate at Somerset House presented by Tiffany &Co. returns for its annual season with aspectacular programme of activities on ice foreveryone – skaters and spectators, families andfriends. The Somerset House Ice Rink in TheEdmond J. Safra Fountain Court, will be a settingfor entertainment, on and off the ice, in the mostbeautiful open-air space in London all day and intothe evening – making Somerset House theultimate winter destination in London. www.somersethouse.org.uk 0844 847 1520

• Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park18 Nov 2011 - 03 Jan 2012The famous London landmark welcomes onceagain the ever-popular Winter Wonderland. With astunning new ice rink surrounding the VictorianBand Stand, Zippos Circus and the GiantObservation Wheel there’s something foreveryone. Walk round the 100 chalets of theAngels Christmas Market, experience thrilling ridesand keep warm with winter food and drink in oneof the many bars and restaurants. Plenty ofactivities to do and free admission!www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

• London Eye20 Nov 2010 - 05 Jan 2011Set in one of the prettiest settings in London, onthe South Bank, London Eye ice rink is onlyavailable to those that buy tickets to the LondonEye itself. www.londoneye.com

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Please send info to our editor to be considered: [email protected] (inclusion is free) What’s onNEW: What’s on Newsletter - See ad page 23

Compiled by Sophie M-C. Please alwaysphone before setting out in case details havechanged since press deadline or we got itwrong...

DIARY DATESEVENTS FOR CHILDRENWILDLIFE WATCH CLUB -WIMBLEDON COMMON.Meet on the first Sunday of each month at the informationCentre, Wimbledon Common, near the Windmill. 10am-12pm. 8-14yrs. £1 registration fee and £2 persession. 020 8540 61544 Dec. NATURAL SEASONAL DECORATIONS

OASIS CHILDREN’S VENTURELarkhall Lane, London SW4 6SP (5mns walk fromStockwell Tube) 020 7498 2329 [email protected] 5s NATURE PLAYGROUND Friday 10.30am-12noon during term time. Games, singing, building,exploring and play. All in a safe and natural setting. Eachweek has a theme: growing, minibeasts, habitat,recycling..Sessions run in all weather – indoor area availablewhen wet. Parent supervision required. No need to book.Donation much appreciated. £1 per child.

THE BEE’S KNEES AT BATTERSEA ART CENTRELavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5TN 020 72232223 www.bac.org.ukMon-Fri 10am-5pm. A MAGICAL INDOORGARDEN CAFÉ for parents and under 5s filled with freeactivities and games. Sit and relax over lunch or tea & cakewhile your children explore and discover. Free. Babiesfacilities. Available to hire for birthday parties.

Eddie Catz PUTNEY68-70 Putney High Street, London SW15 1SF 08452011268, www.eddiecatz.comPlayframe, Toddler & Baby area, Café, free WiFi, classes forunder 5’s, Holiday Camps, free video games9.30am-6.30pm Mon-Sat & 10am-6.30pm Sun.

Eddie Catz WIMBLEDON42 Station Road, Merton SW19 2LP 0845 2011268,www.eddiecatz.comPlayframe, toddler playframe & play area, indoor multi-sports pitch, Disco, Café, free WiFi, holiday camps, videogames, kiddie rides 9.30am-6.00pm Mon-Sun.

SMILEY TIME NURSERY RHYMES & STORY TIMETHE BOWLER, 20 Bellevue Road Wandsworth Common,London SW17 07540 990133 www.smileytime.co.ukMondays & Thursdays 10am. £5 per child (sibling discount£3), drop-in sessions. Babies to under 5s.ST BARNABAS CHURCH, Lavenham Road, London SW18.Tuesdays 10am

THINGS TO DO EN FAMILLECAPOEIRA WORKSHOPS078 5176 4628 www.capoeiramundo.com A fusion of fitness, acrobatics, self-defence, dance andmusic. Also samba dancing and drumming/percussionworkshops on request. All instructors are CRB checkedand have years of experience working with children andyoung adults- from nursery to 18 yrs.

6th Nov, 10.30-4.30pm. MIDWIFE LED CARE OPENDAY, The Portland Hospital. For parents planning theirsecond or subsequent baby. 205-209 Great Portland St,London W1W 5AH. Goodie bag worth £50. Maternity Services Advisor 020 7390 6068 Numbers arelimited book your place at www.theportlandhospital.com

Saturday 12 Nov (1-4pm)Kensington & Chelsea Women’s Club ANNUAL NEARLYNEW SALE. Brompton Oratory Church Hall, BromptonRoad, SW7 2RP (next to V&A Museum)One of London’s biggest sales for gently used children’sclothing up to age 12, toys, books, games, puzzles, DVD’s,baby equipment, maternity wear etc www.kcwc.org.uk oremail [email protected]

Thurs 17 Nov. PARKGATE HOUSE SCHOOLCHRISTMAS BAZAAR. The Grand Hall, Battersea ArtCentre, Lavender Hill, London SW11 4pm-8pm.

Thurs 17 Nov. CHRISTMAS CARD SIGNING ANDCHRISTMAS BAZAAR. Dulwich Picture Gallery, GalleryRoad, Dulwich Village, London SE21 020 8693 4786www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk6pm-9pm. Artist Paula Rego will be signing her DulwichPicture Gallery Christmas cards, plus stalls with a widechoice of gifts made by local artists. Free.

Sat 19 Nov. THE ST MICHAEL STEINER SCHOOLADVENT FAIR. St Paul Community Centre, 23 Inner ParkRoad, SW19 6ED. 11am-4pm. 50p/£1.50. Exciting stallsselling a wide selection of gifts, children craft activities,storytelling and puppet shows, a parent-run café,homemade cake and biscuits and an holistic corner offeringmassage.

Sat 19 Nov. ST MARGARET’S CHRISTMAS FAIRSt Margaret’s Church, Putney Park Lane, London SW15.1.30pm-4pm. 50p adults, free for children. Wheelchairaccess and free parking. Supporting Wandsworth and StMargaret’s Church Centenary Appeal.

Sat 19 Nov. CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIRLinden Lodge School, 61 Princes Way, London SW19.Enquiry: 0780261576910.30am-3.30pm. Solve all your Christmas gift dilemmaswith a wide range of exciting stalls. You will be supportingthe multi-disabled visually impaired pupils of Linden LodgeSchool. £2, under16s free.

Sat 19 Nov.ST MARY’S CHARITY FAIRSt Mary’s Church and Kitson Hall, Barnes SW13.www.stmarybarnes.org 10am-4pm. Fantastic gifts for friends and family, all-daycafé, luxurious clothing and beauty products, children’sactivities, homemade cakes and jams, stocking fillers,jewellery, RHS calendars and plants and a fabulous raffle.Free.

Sat 26th Nov 11-5pmThe Waldorf School of South West ADVENT CRAFTAND GIFT FAIR Riggindale Road Methodist Church,corner of Mitcham Lane, Streatham, SW16 1QH.Children's activities, great wholesome food and homemadegoodies. www.waldorflondon.com

Sat 26 Nov. PARISH OF PUTNEY CHRISTMAS FAIRSt Mary Church, Putney Bridge, London SW1507788452429 www.parisofputney.co.uk 10.30am-1.30pm.Christmas gifts from original jewellery to handcraftedkeepsakes for all the family. Mulled wine and mince pies,father Christmas, face-painting and Splat the Rat games.Raffle and tombola. Free. Proceeds to charity.

Sat 26 Nov.ST PAUL’S CHURCH CHRISTMAS FAIRSt Paul’s Community Centre, 25 Inner Park Road, LondonSW19. [email protected] 11.30am-3.30pm. Stalls, raffle, activities for children and avisit from Father Christmas.

24-27 Nov.WIMBLEDON ART STUDIOS WINTER SHOWThurs & Fri 2pm-10pm and Sat & Sun 11am-6pm.Riverside Yard, Riverside Road, London SW17 89471183www.wimbledonartstudios.co.uk Over 130 emerging and established artists includingpainters, jewellers and photographers display theirartworks. A great opportunity to find that unique gift forChristmas present. Free entry & free parking.

VENN STREET MARKETClapham Common, London SW4 www.vennstreetmarket.co.ukThis much loved market aims to encourage flower, plantand food production, better reflect the seasonal nature offood and plants, reduce produce mileage and packaging andsupport the local economy.WEEKLY: Saturdays 10am-5pm: FRESH FOODMARKET. Sundays 12pm-5pm: FOOD, GARDENPLANTS &CRAFTS.

HILDRETH STREET MARKETFood Market, Balham SW12 11am-4pm.First Sunday of EVERY month. This market brings afantastic range of artisan food producers to Balham.

EVENTS FOR ADULTS8 & 9 Nov. HUGE SALE OF NEW AND SECONDHAND SKI CLOTHES22 Northbourne Road, London SW4. 020 7720 4871www.skiderouge.com [email protected]. For adults and children, big reductions on lastyear’s stock plus this year new collection.

16-20 Nov. IDEAL HOME SHOW AT CHRISTMASEarl’s Court London. 0844 209 7330www.idealhomeshowchristmas.co.uk Latest trends, home interiors advice, technologicaladvancements, and design innovations featuring aChristmas twist and with more gadgets, shopping and giftsfor all the family. Celebrities Christmas ambassadors willbe: Gino D’Acampo, Olly smith and Laurence LlewelynBowen.

14 Nov. MUMPRENEURS NETWORKING CLUBMEETING 10.30am-12noon. Third Door, 16 PointPleasant, Wandsworth, SW18 1GG. Contact: Dawn Gracie 01243 513 822 [email protected] www.agoodgossip.co.uk

THE PARENT PRACTICE WORKSHOPS68 Thurleigh Road, London SW12 8UD and 5 GwendolenAve, London SW15 6EU 020 8673 3444 www.theparentpractice.com Tue 8 Nov. BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN BOYS10am-12.30pm (Clapham)Thurs 17 Nov. HOW TO LISTEN SO KIDS WILLTALK 7.30pm-10pm (Putney) All £45 pp, £75 per coupleor £80 for two friends booking together.

INTERIOR DESIGN WORKSHOPS IN BALHAMInfo & booking: www.londonpropertymakeover.comINTERIOR DESIGN MASTERCLASS19 Nov. 1pm-4.30pm BBC Bar, Balham SW12. £60. You’llget a hands-on guide to decorating with lots of insiderknowledge. HANDMADE HOME CLASSES Why not fillyour home with things you have customised yourself?12 Nov. DECORATIVE PINBOARD 1pm-3pm. StLuke community Hall, Balham. £20.26 Nov. CHRISTMAS DECORATION 1pm-3pm. StLuke community Hall, Balham £20.

POSTNATAL YOGA AND BABY MASSAGEGooseberry Bush Café, Wimbledon SW19. Call Annabel07817931571 or [email protected] Mondays 12 noon. A lovely class for new mothers to bringtheir babies to. An introduction to baby massage followedby restorative yoga for the Mum’s.

FIRST AID COURSESWith Emma Hammett, Qualified Nurse, First Aid Trainerand local Mum. HSE and Qualsafe approved. Over 20 yearsof healthcare and teaching experience 020 8675 [email protected] or www.firstaidforlife.org.uk Weekday courses are in Balham and weekend inWestminster.PEDIATRIC COURSES FULFILLING OFSTEDCRITERIA Thurs 10 Nov, Fri 18 Nov, Sat 26 Nov,Thus 1 Dec & Fri 16 Dec.EMERGENCY COURSES/FIRST AID FOR BABIESSat 12 Nov, Fri 25 Nov, Sat 3rd Dec & Wed 7 Dec.Courses in small groups, certificates awarded on the day.Saturday courses available. Numerous dates and coursesavailable and Emma, Jess or Piers will teach at your housetoo. Contact Emma or visit the website.

R.E.D.I Training1 U2 Cooper House, 2 Michael Road, London SW6 2AD020 7348 7117 www.redi-training.co.ukEMERGENCY CARE This includes the care of anunconscious baby or child, mouth-to-mouth, chestcompressions, choking and the recovery position.15 Nov. 7.30pm-9.30pm. TREETOPS NURSERY inFulham16 Nov. 10am-12noon. THE POTTERY CAFÉ inFulhamACCIDENT AND ILLNESSES (First Aid Training)

28 November 2011®

covers the treatment of common illnesses and accidentswith easy-to-use assessments methods.22 Nov. 7pm-9.30pm. TREETOPS NURSERY in Fulham23 Nov. 10am-12.30pm. THE POTTERY CAFÉ in Fulham

THE PAPER PARLOUR – PHOTOGRAPHYMASTERCLASS7, Prescott Place, London SW4 6BS 020 7627 8703www.thepaperedparlour.co.ukSat 26 & Sun 27 Nov. CONTEMPORARYPHOTOGRAPHY WITH SAM ROBERTS & LOUISEHALL. £165 (incl final print +refreshments) Head out toClapham common to complete a series of engaging mini-projects focusing on colour, them, and depth of field as youshoot London in the autumn sun.

DRAMAPOLKA THEATRE240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 0208543 4888 www.polkatheatre.comMAINTHEATRETo 18 Feb.THE UGLYDUCKLINGThis brand newadaptation ofHans ChristianAndersen’sclassic talepromises to bea playful andtenderproduction,brought to lifewith delightfulmusic,movement andpuppetry. 3-5yrs and specialperformancesfor 1-5yrs. Please check the website. £7/£9.11 Nov-4 Feb. CHARLOTTE’S WEB This showpromises to delight the whole family. 5-11yrs. £8/£16.

UNICORN THEATRE147 Tooley Street, Southwark, London SE1 2HZ 020 76450560 www.unicorntheatre.com22-27 Nov. BLACKBERRY TROUT FACE Kerrie setsabout her daily task of preparing Mum’s heroin. Jakey hashad just enough of life in a gang. Cameron is too scared tostep outside the front door. One morning they discoverMum has abandoned them – they’ve been left alone. Abold, gritty and funny play that explores family, loyalty andambition. 13yrs+. £9/£11, family £32.CHRISTMAS SHOWS23 Nov-8 Jan. THE SNOW QUEEN A brand newversion of Hans Christian Andersen’s magical tale,transported to a land rich in colour, music andunforgettable imagery. 7yrs+. £16/£22, concs £10/£5,family £44/£64.3-30 Dec. RING A DING DING Join us for anepic, though tiny, table-top voyage of discovery,where your fingers and noses will never be far fromaction. An immersive, interactive and multi-sensory showfor children aged 3-6 and their families.

TARA Studio356 Garratt Lane, London, SW18 4ES 020 8333 4457www.tara-arts.com9 & 10 Nov. WAKE UP DON QUIXOTE An innovativeand inspirational experience for children based onCervantes famous book “Don Quixote”. The show willfeature giant puppets, dance, music and film and will allowthe audience to have a look into a world of dreams andfantasy with a touch of comedy and a large helping of magic!8yrs+. £7.50/£8.50

24 & 25 Nov. THE EARLSFIELD MYSTERIES 7.30pm.Tara Arts’ Young People Theatre Company mark the 400thanniversary of the King James bible, by fashioning their ownversion of the mysteries, drawing on stories from the Oldand New Testament for another Christmas themedproduction. £7.50/£8.5026 Nov. GRETEL & HANSEL 10.30am. With beautifulpuppets, magical tricks, silly singing, and super Sand-dancing, this fast-moving production features music fromthe Humperdinck opera. £7.50/£8.50.CHRISTMAS SHOW1 – 24 Dec. BOLLYWOOD CINDERELLAPANTOMIME (check the website for details of schedule)Hardeep Singh Kohli cooks up his own inimitable brand offun for all the family – spicing the much loved Christmasclassic with Indian colours, smells and sounds. £10/£12.50.

THE LYRIC HAMMERSMITH THEATRELyric Square, King Street, London W6 0OL 0871 22 117 20www.lyric.co.uk 19 Nov-31 Dec. ALADDIN The Lyric’s traditionalPantomime is back and this year East meets West (London)in Aladdin. With a flying carpet, a magic lamp, a monkeyand, of course, Widow Twankey. A festive treat for thewhole family! 6yrs+. £12.50/£30, under 16s £15, family£60. Bkg: 0871 221 1729.

THE COLOUR HOUSE THEATREMerton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way, SW19 2RD 020 87678886 www.colourhousetheatre.co.ukSat & Sun 2pm & 4pm both days. £7/£9.To Sun 13 Nov. ALICE IN WONDERLAND. Alicedisappears down that famous rabbit hole again for sometruly mad adventures in the strange and magical world ofWonderland. The show promises to be a true classic for thewhole family to enjoy! 3yrs+. £7/£9CHRISTMAS SHOW26 Nov-29 Jan. ALADDIN Poor Aladdin is tricked by hisevil “uncle” to enter a dangerous cave and look for a magiclamp. Soon he is trapped inside. Will poor Aladdin escape,find love and make his fortune? Of course he will! It’spantomime time again at the Colour House. Come and boo,hiss and enjoy this wonderful new adaptation with thewhole family!

PUPPET THEATRE BARGELittle Venice, Blomfield Road, London W9 2PF 020 72496876 www.puppetbarge.com From 3 Dec. MR RABBIT MEETS BRER SANTA Atale of a wily fox and a mischievous rabbit. Opens 3 Dec at3pm. 3/4 Dec, 10/11, 17 to 23 daily at 3pm. 27 Dec to 2 Jandaily at 3pm. 7/8 Jan at 3pm. Additional performances onSat mornings at 11am throughout the season. £8.50/£10.

HALF MOON YOUNG PEOPLE’STHEATRE43 White Horse Road, London E1 0ND 020 7709 8900www.halfmoon.org.uk All tickets £6.Sat 12 Nov. LIANG AND THE MAGIC PAINTBRUSH11am & 2pm. Liang dreams of being a painter, but is toopoor to buy himself a paintbrush. A magical adventure tofind out if dreams can come true. The show combinespuppets, origami, live painting and video images to bring thiswell loved Chinese tale to life. 3yrs+Sat 19 Nov. HARE AND TORTOISE 11am & 2pm.Tutti Frutti Productions brings you this much-loved storybrimming with ideas, characters, live music and wonderfulphysicality. 3yrs+Sat 26 Nov. SNOW PLAY 11am & 2pm. When MrGreen comes back from holiday to find Mr white in hishouse, it’s the start of a brrrrrrilliant series of adventures. Adelightful story with an opportunity to join in and makeyour very own snowman. 3-7yrs.CHRISTMAS SHOWSSat 3 Dec. THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS 11am& 2pm. A magical festive treat for all the family! 3yrs+Sat 10 Dec. CIRCLE OF TALES 11am & 2pm. How andwhen did the first story come to be told? A fable told usingAfrican language and English, wood and wire puppets, videoprojection and live music played on traditional instruments.Lyric Theatre

visit www.familiessouthwest.co.uk

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LYRIC THEATRESHAFTESBURY AVENUEWed 23 Nov – Sun 15 Jan THE GRUFFALO. The smashhit show returns by popular demand! Bookings 0844 4124661 www.gruffalolive.com

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATREThe Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1QG 0844 8717646 www.ambassadortickets.com/wimbledonTue 15-Sat 19 Nov. DAVID ESSEX STARS IN “ALLTHE FUN OF THE FAIR” Dodgems and motorbikes,crafty cons and candy floss, fairground horses and fights,along with romance and rock and roll mean you’re sure togo on a rollercoaster of a ride! £17/£38Tue 22-Sat 26 Nov. RHINESTONE MONDAYS ( ACountry Music Comedy) A funny tale of love, life and linedancing! £10/£31.50.

PUTNEY ARTS THEATRERavenna Road, Putney SW15 6AW 020 8788 6943.http://www.putneyartstheatre.org.uk/welcomeThurs 24-Fri 25 Nov. YOUNG DIRECTORS Group64’s talented young people return for another round of theYoung Directors. They will rehearse, produce and directexciting and challenging scripts to be performed in theAnthony Bridges Studio. £5/£7/£10.CHRISTMAS SHOWThurs 8-Sun 11 Dec. THE LION, THE WITCH ANDTHE WARDROBE by CS Lewis, dramatised by AdrianMitchell. 7.45pm Sat and Sun matinee 3pm, no Sun eveshow. An exciting, magical and wonderful journey! £7/£10,family £30

CAMBRIDGE THEATREEarlham Street, London WC2H 9HU 0844 412 4652/0844800 1110 www.matildathemusical.comTo 12 Feb 2012. MATILDA THE MUSICAL The RoyalShakespeare Company’s world premiere of Roald Dahl’smagical story about a girl with extraordinary powers. £20to £59.50.

SADLER’S WELLTwo Theatres in Islington: SADLER’S WELL THEATRE andthe LILIAN BAYLIS STUDIO. Rosebery Avenue, LondonEC1R 4TNA West end Theatre: The PEACOCK THEATRE. PortugalStreet, London WC2A 2RT. Kingsway, near Holborn.www.sadlerswells.comThree wonderful CHRISTMAS SHOWS offeringsomething for all the family.Wed 30 Nov-Sun 8 Jan. THE SNOWMAN PeacockTheatre. Bkg: 0844 412 4322 or online. London’s favourite

family Christmas show based on Raymond Brigg’s book“the Snowman”. £12/£32, family £95.Tue 6 Dec-Sun 22 Jan. MATTHEW BOURNE’SNUTCRACKER Sadler’s Well. Bkg: 0844 412 4300 oronline. A resident Company of Sadler’s Wells, MatthewBourne’s New Adventures has produced some of the mostsuccessful dance productions of the last two decades! Anew “Must See”. £10/£60, family £140.Tue 13-Sat 31 Dec. BOING! Lilian Baylis Studio. Bkg:0844 412 4300 or online. An energetic and enchantingpiece of dance theatre combining comedy, acrobatics andbreakdance. Set on Christmas Eve, BOING! Captures thedelirious excitement of waiting for Santa to arrive. £7/£12.

PANTOMIMESGREENWICH THEATRECrooms Hill, London SE10 8ES www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk 24 Nov-9 Jan. ALADDIN A fast paced familypantomime. No wooden stars just great actor/singers whoknow their business, a great rocking live band and a greatDame in Andrew Pollard who has been writing and starringfor 7 years. A gem!

MILLFIELD ARTS CENTRESilver Street, Edmonton, London N18 1PJ www.millfieldartscentre.co.uk24 Nov-8 Jan. BEAUTY AND THE BEASTA beautiful Panto full of beastly good fun!

HACKNEY EMPIRE291 Mare Street, London E8 1EJ www.hackneyempire.co.uk26 Nov-8 Jan. CINDERELLA Join beautiful Cinderella,two hideous sisters, one mean stepmother, one hugepumpkin, a glitzy Palace Ball and lots of very cute mice. Aknockabout comedy.

SOUTH LONDON THEATRE2a Norwood High Street, London SE27 9NSwww.southlondontheatre.co.uk 6 Dec-17 Jan. BABES IN THE WOODSThe sheriff of Nottingham has just learned that his wards,the eponymous Babes of the story, are worth more to himdead than alive! Then, the adventure begins!

SHAW THEATRE100-110 Euston Road, London NW1 2AJ www.shaw-theatre.com 6 Dec-31 Dec. JACK & THE BEANSTALKSStarring Linda and Maureen from THE NOLANS withDevon Anderson (Billie Jackson from Eastenders) ChrisStanton from CBBC’s M.I.HIGH.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATREThe Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1QG 0844 8717646 www.ambassadortickets.com/wimbledonFri 9 Dec- Sun 15 Jan. DICK WHITTINGTON DameEdna Everage will be starring as the Saviour of London inthis year’s spectacular family pantomime. £15.25/£37.50.

RICHMOND THEATREThe Green, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7651www.ambassadortickets.com/richmond9 Dec-15 Jan. CINDERELLA Jenny Éclair is making herpantomime debut and will be joined by the legendary starGary Wilmot. Stunning sets, glittering costumes, wonderfulsongs, dazzling dances and hilarious family-friendly comedy,it’s the perfect ideal Christmas treat for all ages!

THE BROADWAY THEATRECatford, London SE6 4RU 020 8690 0002 www.broadwaytheatre.org.uk10 Dec-2 Jan. JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Atraditional pantomime with spectacular scenery, colourfulcostumes, creative choreography accompanied by livemusic and a talented cast who promise plenty of magic!

THE RYAN THEATREHarrow School, 5 High Street, Harrow On The Hill,Middlesex HA 3HP www.hillplayers.co.uk 17 Dec/18 Dec. ALI THE BARBER Ali is a barber,Business is not good. Luckily he stumbles across a robbersstash & helps himself to a few quid. However Ali’s brother,Cassim, hearing of Ali’s fortune, is intent on taking the lot.

WWT WETLAND CENTREQueen Elizabeth's Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT. 020 84094400. www.wwt.org.ukSat 17-Tue 20 Dec. WHICH WITCH IS WHICH? Amagical pantomime full of Wetland animals and magic spells.The Wetland animals need your help..There are WickedWitches about! 11.30am & 2.30pm each day. £6 and donot include entry to the centre. Bkg: online or 020 8409 4400

VAUDEVILLE THEATRE404 Strand, London WC2R 0NH www.pottedpanto.com 18 Dec-8 Jan. POTTED PANTO From the makers ofPotted Potter comes seven classic pantos in 80mns! WithCBBC’s Dan and Jeff. Following a Best Entertainmentnomination in the Olivier Awards and a West End run oftheir original show Potted Potter, this year Potted Pantofeatures eight classic pantomimes in just eighty minutes! Aspectacular, silly and splendid celebration of a truly greatBritish theatre tradition—eight shows for the price of one!Excellent reviews! Box Office – 0844 482 9675

WINSTON CHURCHILL HALL THEATREPinn Way, Ruislip, HA4 7QL www.argosyplayers.org.uk 19 Jan-22 Jan. Following last years critically acclaimedPETER PAN, Aropsy are back with West London’s biggestand best pantomime “Cinderella”. Hilarious jokes, laughs,music and magic. All for £10!

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EVENTSTHE 2011 LORD MAYOR’S SHOWSat 12 Nov. 11am. A 3 miles procession from MansionHouse to the Royal Courts of Justice, then, the processionsets off on the return journey from Victoria Embankment toMansion House at 1pm and returns to Mansion House atabout 2.30pm. At 5pm, expect a wonderful firework from abarge moored in the Thames between Blackfriars andWaterloo bridges.For info, maps, timetable go to www.lordmayorsshow.org

BFI SOUTHBANKTHE DISNEY 50 AT THE BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE020 7928 3232 www.bfi.org.uk/southbank£6.75/£9.50, family £20.Every weekend throughout 2011, the Disney heritage will begloriously showcased, spanning seventy years of films thatcombine beautiful artistry, masterful storytelling and groundbreaking technology.Sat 12 Nov. DINOSAUR (USA 2000. PG) 1.30pmMon 14 Nov THE EMPEROR’S NEW GROOVE (USA 2000.U) 6.20pm & Sat 19 Nov 2.15pm.

WWT WETLAND CENTREQueen Elizabeth's Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT. 020 8409 4400.www.wwt.org.ukDaily 9.30am - 5pm £4.95/ £8.95, under 4s free, family £25.Every Day in Nov. LIVE ‘N’ DEADLY. DEADLY SCENEINVESTIGATION There’s a broken nest box high in a tree,with some fur around the box, as well as some tracks.Suspicious characters have been seen nearby..CBBC’s “Live‘n’ Deadly: DSI involves puzzles, clues and activities.Sat 5-Sun 11 Dec WINTER FAMILY WEEKENDACTIVITIES-STORYTELLING: HIBERNATION Listen to some greathibernation stories and make a hibernating hedgehog to takehome. Under 7s. Voluntary donation.-PAPERMAKING: Join us to make your own real recycledpaper by hand, adding seeds and other natural materialsfound in the Wetlands. 7yrs+. £1.-MIGRATION WALK: This is a fun look at migration: whybirds migrate, where they go, and how do they do it? 7yrs+Free with adm to the Centre. Visit www.wwt.org.uk/londonfor dates and times.

ORLEANS HOUSE GALLERYRiverside, Twickenham, TW 1 3DJ 020 8831 6000www.richmond.gov.uk/orleans_house_gallery FAMILY EVENTS:Every Friday: SEESAW 10.30am-12.30pm Stables Gallery.£4 per child and carer. No bkg required. Children must beaccompanied by an adult. Learn, play and explore together ina multi-sensory session designed to encourage creativity,curiosity and develop skills in communication, co-ordinationand social interaction.SUNDAY AFTERNOON AR. Free drop-in workshop forfamilies, 2pm-3.30pm. 4yrs+ Children must beaccompanied by an adult. No bkg required.Sun 6 Nov. FLYING MACHINES.Sun 4 Dec. CHRISTMAS DECORATIONSRICHMOND UPON THAMES LITERATURE FESTIVALVisit www.richmondliterature.com for the full programmeand to book any events.3-27 Nov. 2011 marks the 20th anniversary of the Richmondupon Thames Literature Festival and to celebrate, there is asuperb line-up of authors, artists, thinkers and speakers.Although it’s an fantastic and exciting and unmissable eventfor adults, there’s something the teens and the children aswell with the “Young People’s Festival and the “Young WritersFestival” Check the website for full detailsSome highlights:Sat 12 Nov. IAN BECK 11am-12noon. Orange TreeTheatre. £4 020 8940 3633 or www.orangetreetheatre.co.uk Prepare to be spooked by award-winningauthor Ian Beck as he introduces his new book “The Haunting Of charity Delafield”. 8-11yrs.Sat 19 Nov. CHARLIE DARK: THE Dr OCTOPUSSHOW 10.30am. Clarendon Hall. £7. A Hip-Hopadventure deep beneath the sea with an original sound-trackfor babies and little people. 1-5yrs.Sun 27 Nov. JANET CRONIN: WORLD OF HAPPY10.30am. Ham House. £6. Come and meet illustrator JanetCronin for stories and crafty activities to celebrate the newbooks and the CBBC TV series. 3-5yrs.

CINE LUMIERE/ INSTITUT FRANCAIS17 Queensberry Place, London SW7 2DT 020 7073 1350www.institut-francais.org.ukCINE-KIDSSat 12 Nov. TITEUF, LE FILM. 2pm, £5.Sat 27 Nov. A CAT IN PARIS 4pm, £5.FAMILY CONCERTS Fun and interactive.Sat 19 Nov. THE THORNE TRIO 10.45am, £5/£7.AU THEATRE THIS SUNDAY This series is perfect forprimary school children who want to progress further withFrench language and culture.Sun 20 Nov. HOW TO MAKE A GOOD LITTLERIDING HOOD 3pm, £8/£10.BABY FRENCH TALES With games, songs and music,professional storyteller and librarians will make the babiesfamiliarise themselves with French language and their parentswith age and level-appropriate books.12 Nov. LE ROYAUME DE LA FORET 11am. Adaptedfrom “Le petit Chaperon rouge” by Perrault. £5/£7SPECIAL EVENT: Thurs 24-Sun 27 Nov. SOUTH KENKIDS FESTIVAL

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERYSt Martin’s Place, London WC2H 0HE 020 7306 0055,www.npg.org.uk/eventsMon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun 10am-6pm. Late opening Thu, Fri10am-9pm. FAMILY EVENTS: Meet in the Ondaatje Wing Main HallSat 19 Nov. STORYTELLING FOR FAMILIES 10.30amor 1.30pm An exciting story-telling session followed by a funart activity. 3yrs+Sat 19 Nov. FAMILY ART WORKSHOP 11.30am or2.30pm. Explore portraits in the Collection, followed by anart activity. 5yrs+FAMILY AUDIO GUIDE £6 up to 5 audio players, £4 for 2audio players (one adult and one child) Explore amazing factsand stories about people in the collection with a speciallydesigned recorded tour and interactive touch-screen players7-11yrs.

KEW GARDENSRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB020 8332 5655 www.kew.org

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9.30am-6pm £11.90/£13.90, free for children under 17 (withan adult)1 Dec-31 Jan WINTER EVERGREEN WALK. Daily from12noon and starts from the volunteers desk (Victoria Plaza)Join this guided walk with Kew’s expert guides, and discoverthe Christmas plants that shine throughout winter in Kew’s300 acre site. 3 Dec-2 Jan. If you prefer to go at your own pace, why notpick up a leaflet at the gates and try a self-guided ‘WinterWalk’.

THE WALLACE COLLECTIONHertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN,020 7563 9500/ 9551 www.wallacecollection.org10am-5pm. Free.EVENTS FOR FAMILIESSun 6 Nov. THE LITTLE DRAW 1.30pm-4.30pm. Freedrop-in drawing workshop for all ages. Meet Artist JuliaIwasz, whose work explores the connections betweenphotography and drawing.Sat 12 Nov. FAMILY PUBLIC TOUR 2.30pm. Free,drop-in tour. An exciting, creative, thrilling and interactivejourney led by the young curators from St Vincent’s PrimarySchool.Daily Self Guided Activities- no need to book!-FAMILY MULTIMEDIA TOUR with interactive games.Small fee.- FREE ARMOUR HANDLING Daily. Find out what abrigandine is and how heavy a bullet-proof breastplate reallywas.- FAMILY TRIALS Themed family trails available from theinformation desk at the front Entrance

SOMERSET HOUSEStrand, London WC2 1LA 020 78454600,www.somerset.org.ukSATURDAYS FREE FAMILY WORKSHOPS: 2pm-3.30pm. Free Family Workshops. Collect tickets from 1pmfrom the information desk in the Seamen’s Hall on the day.Children 6-12yrs must be accompanied by an adult.Sat 12 Nov. SKETCHES OF SPAIN Take inspiration fromthe Courtauld Gallery’s exhibition “The Spanish Line” andcreate bold drawings in dramatic charcoal and chalks.Sat 19 Nov. BEHIND THE MASK Learn the history ofthe masquerade at Somerset house and construct a costumefor your own masked ball.Sat 26 Nov. FANTASTIC FIESTAS Discover how tocreate vibrant masterpieces in pastels and paint afterexploring “The Spanish Line” exhibition at the CourtauldGallery.

HAMPTON COURT PALACEEast Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU27 Nov – 8 Jan. ICE RINK Located in-front of the HenriVIII’s stunning Tudor Palace, the ever-popular outdoor ice rinkwill be making a welcome return for 6 festive weeks. Bkg:www.hamptoncourticerink.com £8 to £12, family £32/£34.

SYON PARKBrentford, Middlesex TW8 8JF www.syonpark.co.uk18, 19, 20 Nov, 25, 26, 27 Nov & 2,3,4 Dec. THEENCHANTED WOODLAND 5.00pm to 9.00pm, lastentry at 8.00pm. Let thousands of lights illuminate your wayas you take a magical stroll through Syon Park. Adults £7.00,

children £3.00. Tickets available on the night or available fromwww.quaytickets.com and the Visitor Centre at Syon Park.For more info and special offers contact the Estate office on020 8560 0882 or [email protected]. Refreshments willbe available for purchase each evening from The Refectory inthe Garden Centre. Warm clothing and stout footwear isadvisable. Photography is encouraged. Free parking. Pleasenote: with the exception of guide dogs we regret dogs are notallowed onto the trail. RHS membership not valid as this is aspecial event.

HAM HOUSE Ham Street, Ham, Richmond upon Thames TW10 7RS 0208940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.ukThe National Trust’s 17th century Ham House is helpingthe RICHMOND UPON THAMES LITERATUREFESTIVAL to celebrate its 20th anniversary with anentertaining and inspiring line-up of talks and workshopsfor both children and adults.Sat 26 Nov. FOOD AND DRINK 3pm. With Penelope Vogler , the Penguin’s “Great Food”series Editor. Join her to discuss food, ingredients andcooking through the ages, recreate recipes and try cakesand biscuits from the past. £8.50/£10.8pm. With Ex Head Chef at River Cottage Canteen andthe founder of “Eat Real Food” Campaign through which hepasses on his knowledge via bespoke cookery, wild foodand foraging. £8.50/£10.Sun 27 Nov. SALON DE THE- AN INTERACTIVEEDWARDIAN TEA PARTY 2pm & 4.30pm. Be entertainby the butler, the maid, even the Lady of the Manor, whileenjoying a sumptuous tea provided by specialist bakers LilyVanilli. £26.Sun 27 Nov. FOR YOUNGER VISITORS: MEETJANET CRONIN, illustrator of modern classic and now ofthe new series “World of Happy” 13 books of joy andloveliness about different animals doing extraordinarythings. Janet’s interactive workshop includes storytellingand craft activities. 10.30am, £6. 3-5yrs.

WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK0844 858 6755 www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com 18 Nov-3 Jan. 10am to 10pm everyday (18 Nov opens at5pm) , seven days a week across 20 acres of historic parkland.Closed on Christmas day.Featuring:- The biggest outdoor rink in the UK, stretching over1,350m2 it will surround the Victorian Band Stand, creating abeautiful centre piece for Winter Wonderland- 50m Observation wheel- Zippo’s Christmas Circus in its very own heated big topwith its special show.- Cirque Extreme, a jaw dropping show.- Wider variety of themed ride for children- Angel Christmas Market- Festive catering from around the world- Indoor and outdoor bars- Santa: Father Christmas will be at the Hyde Park

visit www.familiessouthwest.co.uk for What's On

Please send info to our editor to be considered: [email protected] (inclusion is free) What’s on

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Ham house: Literary Festival. Janet Cronin illustrationfor “World of Happy”

The Royal Shakespeare Company's production of RoaldDahl's 'Matlida The Musical'

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bandstand along with his elves everyday.Free to enter, with tokens for all rides and attractions availablefor purchase on the day, but bkg is recommended for Ice Rinkand the Wheel.

SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBEBank Side, 21 New Glove Walk, London SE1 9DT 020 79021400 www.shakespeares-globe.comThurs 8 Dec. A CONCERT FOR WINTER 1pm. Willprovide a banquet of music, song and festivity which willcelebrate the work and creativity of Southwark communitygroups and schools. Adm is free but tickets must be bookedin advance by emailing: [email protected]

ROYAL ALBERT HALLKensington Gore, London SW7 2AP 0845 401 5045www.royalalberthall.comSPECIAL EVENT FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN:Tue 15 Nov. JUNIOR IGNITE:TOMORROW’SWARRIORS BIGGISH BAND 12om. Café Consort.Tomorrow’s Warriors is a leading UK organisation for jazzmusic education and professional artist development. Part ofthe programme “Junior Ignite” in association with Music forYouth. Free entry.More info: www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/ignite/biggish-band.aspx

EXHIBITIONS &MUSEUMS

WANDSWORTH MUSEUM38 West Hill, London SW18 1RX 020 8870 6060www.wandsworthmuseum.co.uk Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. £3/£4, under 5’s free.EXHIBITIONTo 31 Dec.SEPARATION AND SILENCE: WANDSWORTHPRISON From an execution box to a letter from OscarWilde’s wife Constance, desperate to see her husband, the

display explores the past of Wandsworth Prison, its inmatesand the changes that have taken place in the prison system,from punitive measures to the changing condition of aninmate’s cell.FAMILY WORKSHOPSat 19 Nov.CREATION IN CAPTIVITY Drop-in event 11am-1pm.Make your own Prison Art! 5yrs+. Free with Museumadm. No bkg required.

THE MUSEUM OF FULHAM PALACEBishop’s Avenue, London SW6 6EA 020 7610 7165www.fulhampalace.org The Museum: Open five afternoons each week: Sat, Sun,Mon, Tue & Wed 1pm-4pmDrawing room Café: Weekdays 10am-4pm and weekends9am-5pmGardens: Open daily from dawn to dusk.

Sun 27 Nov. FAMILY DROP-IN DISCOVERY AFTERNOON. 2pm-3.30pm. Try on period costumes, handle artefacts and learnabout the history of the Palace. Free. Suggested donation£2 or £5 per family towards upkeep of the costumes.Children must be accompanied by an adult.

THE DE MORGAN CENTREWest Hill, London SW18 1RX 020 8871 1144www.demorgan.org.uk Tue-Fri 1pm-5pm & Sat 10am-5pm. Adult £4, childrenfree.Refurbished, re-configured restored and re-hung, visitorswill once again be able to experience the stunningcollection of William De Morgan’s ceramics and Evelyn DeMorgan’s paintings – the largest collection of eachanywhere in the world!- Activity trail for children, which leads them around thegallery, encourages them to find answers to questions andoffers the opportunity for some drawing and tile design.

- In the shop, visitors will find amazing books withchildren’s crafts activities, as well as child friendly goodiesincluding a De Morgan tile puzzle.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUMCromwell Road, London SW7 020 7938 9123. Info: Mon-Fri 020 7942 5000. Sat & Sun 020 7942 5011www.nhm.ac.ukMon-Sat: 10am – 5.50pm Sun 11am-5.50pm. Free. EXHIBITIONTo 11 Mar 2012VEOLIA ENVIRONMENT WILDLIFEPHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR 10am-5.50pm.More than 100 images uniquely combines the work oftalented photographers and gifted amateurs. Interactivestations provide insight into what the judges, scientists andthe photographers think about each photograph, whileencouraging visitors to participate and not just vote fortheir favorite, but also join the debate surrounding the hottopics of conservation and green issues. £4.50/£9, family £24,ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES Full listing onwww.nhm.ac.uk/whats-onMon-Fri in term time. 11am-5pm. DAILY FAMILYACTIVITES. Free. Younger visitors can pick up anExplorer backpack and take a mini adventure around theMuseum. Don’t miss the Dippy floor puzzle, perfect forunder 8’s. Complete the puzzle of the 26-metre long“diplodocus” and you’ll get a funky Dippy sticker!12 Nov. ANIMAL VISION : CAN YOU REALLY SEEEVERYTHING? 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm £ 1.30pm.Discover how eye adaptations in animals such a snake,iguanas and chameleons allow individuals to escape andlocate prey. 7yrs+ICE RINKOpens 4 Nov. Set within the historic Victorian grounds ofthe Museum, the Ice Rink has become an integral part ofLondon’s winter scene. Other on-site attractions include achildren’s rink and beautiful fairground carousel.Booking and info 0844 847 1576 or www.nhmskating.com

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUMRoyal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HT 020 7730 0717www.nam.ac.uk Daily 10am-5.30pm. FreeEXHIBITIONSDRAW YOUR WEAPONS - THE ART OF"COMMANDO" COMICS. A colourful and dynamicexhibition exploring the history of the war comic from itsinitial conception and subject matter to its continuingpopularity. FreeWAR HORSE: FACT & FICTION A new majorexhibition exploring the true history behind the hugelypopular “War Horse” novel by Michael Morpugo. Free.FAMILY EVENTS5, 12 & 26 Nov.DRAW YOUR WEAPONS ART WORKSHOPS 2pm-3.30pm. Budding artist of all ages will learn newtechniques, design their own storyboard and hear the tales


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behind the artwork. Hosted by popular comic illustratorsand by acclaimed war artists. £3.503 Dec.BLITZ CHRISTMAS- A FAMILY DAY OFENTERTAINMENT AND DISCOVERY 10am-5.30pmVisitors of all ages can enjoy a festive 40s panto, live musicand songs, take part in an authentic drill with the HomeGuard and scan the skies for Santa’s sleigh with the RoyalArtillery. Free.3 Dec.JINGLE BELL JIVE 7.30pm till midnight Jitterbugthrough the doodlebugs with the professional dancers andcelebrate the season at the annual 40s dance night.£7.50/£12.50/£15.ACTION ZONES – VICTORIAN SOLDIERS ACTION ZONE Quizzes,games and hands-on activities help you learn about life as aVictorian Soldier and the part they played in the shaping ofBritain’s Empire. Free, in “Changing the World Gallery”.KID’S ZONE Daily 10.10am-5.15pm. This new children’splay area explores aspects of army life from camping toclothing and includes a dedicated soft play space for babies,plus art and crafts, dressing-up costumes, books,interactive toys and panels. Adm charge applies.www.nam.ac.uk/kids

HMS BELFASTMorgan’s Lane, Tooley Street, City of London SE1 2JH 0207940 6300 www.hmsbelfast.iwm.org.uk Daily 10am-5pm. Adults £13.50, under16s free, concs forSenior/Student/Disabled/Unemployed £6.75 to £10.80.16 & 27 Nov. KYE HISTORY Find out more about story of HMS Belfastand the Company that sailed her on her various journeysaround the world and have a sip of warming naval hotchocolate. 2Kye” is a naval term for grated cocoa. Entryincluded in general adm price. All ages but with parentalsupervision.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOODCambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200,www.vam.ac.uk/moc Daily 10am-5.45pm. Free.EXHIBITIONSTo 26 Feb 2012.THE STUFF OF NIGHTMARES. This exhibitionexplores the darker side of traditional fairy tales. Thegallery has been transformed into a creepy forest, aninstallation based on the Brothers Grimm tale Fundevogelmade with the help of local schoolchildren.To 4 Mar 2012.MAGIC WORLDS The exhibition will delve into thecaptivating world of magic, inviting visitors to immersethemselves in the imaginary and fantastical realms ofwitches, wizards, fairies, elves, dragons, magicians andillusionists. On display will be costumes, tricks, paintings,ceramics, beautifully illustrated books and posters, gamesoptical toys and dramatic puppets. Free.EVENTS26 & 27 Nov.UP, UP IN THE AIR 12noon-3pm. Aerial danceperformances by dancer IIona Jantti. She will be suspendedfrom the beams of the main hall, performing 15mns slots.Drop-in. All ages.26 & 27 Nov.MRS SANTA’S CRAFT CORNER 12noon-4pm.Christmas decoration-making but there will be also knittedteddy bears, jumpers and mittens on sale. All proceeds willgo to the community Service Volunteers charity for childrenin need. Drop-in. all ages.

HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY MUSEUMHorse Guards, Whitehall, London SW1A 2AX 020 79303070 www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.ukSat 26 & Sun 27 Nov. CHILDREN’S CHRISTMASCRAFT WEEKEND 11.15am & 2.15pm Children will have fun making their own cards, adventcalendars, decorations, gift wrapping and other homemadegifts for their loved ones. Everything has a HouseholdCavalry theme and during the weekend you can also have ago at candle making, clay modelling and sewing. 5-11yrs.Free for children with fee paying adult. Small charge formaterial. Bkg essential.

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUMThreadneedle Street, London EC2R 8AH 020 7601 5545www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. Free.12 Nov. LORD MAYOR’S SHOW 11am-5pm. Facepainters bring Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad to life.Professional make-up artists will turn young visitors into thewell-known characters from The Wind in the Willows,whose author, Kenneth Grahame was secretary of the Bankfrom 1898-1908.

HORNIMAN MUSEUM100 London Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ 020 86991872 www.horniman.ac.ukDaily 10.30am-5.30pm, £1/£2, family £5.LOTS OF CHILDREN’S AND FAMILY ACTIVITIES.Some highlights. Check the website for a full programme.Wed & Fri until 16 Dec. BUSY BEE’S 10.30am,11.15am and 12pm. Lively sessions for under 5’sEvery Sat until 10 Dec. ART MAKERS 1.30pm &2.45pm. Have fun with art skills and exciting techniques tocreate something fabulous to take home. Sessions are led

by a professional local artist. £3 per child, accompanyingadult free. 3yrs+Every Sat until 17 Dec.HANDS ON FAMILY WORKSHOP 11.45am & 1pm.You can touch real museum objects from around the worldin these family sessions.Every Sun until 11 Dec. DISCOVERY FOR ALL. 2pm Drop in to explore ourHands On Base and the thousands of real objects fromaround the world that it holds.27 Nov.NZINGA DANCE ENSEMBLE CONCERT 3pm. Moveyour feet to rhythms from Africa and the Caribbean. Nzingastudents and professionals will dazzle you with theirdrumming and dancing. 3 Dec.TALES FROM THE HORNIMAN – A WORLD OFSTORIES 2.15pm & 3.30pm Our popular storytellersbring our collections and gardens alive with enchantingstories from around the world.4 Dec.RAISE THE ROOF CONCERT 2.30pm. Enjoy songsfrom around the world with “Raise the Roof Choir”.

The MUSEUM OF LONDON and MUSEUM OFLONDON DOCKLANDSPlease visit the websites for full details of childrenactivities. www.museumoflondon.org.uk andwww.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands

MUSEUM OF LONDONLondon Wall, EC2Y 5HN 020 7001 9844. Open daily10am-6pmSun 13 Nov MUSEUM EXPLORED 11.30am-13.30pm & 2pm-4pmand Sun 27 Nov 11.30am-1.30pm & 2pm-4pm. Join oneof the Museum’s Hosts and explore the galleries throughfun, hands-on activities, suitable for the whole family. Free.Sun 20 Nov.ENTER A VICTORIAN PHOTOGRAPH 12.30pm-13.30pm, 2pm-3pm & 3.30pm-4.30pm. Create fictionalVictorian characters..then using blue screen technology,dress up and enter a photograph from the time. 5yrs+.Free: tickets on application.

MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDSWest India Quay, E14 4AL 020 7001 9844. Open daily10am-6pm.Sat 12 Nov.ANIMALS IN WARTIME 12.30pm-1pm, 2.30pm-3pm &3.30pm-4pm. Did you know that many creatures includingglow-worms, pigeons, cats and dogs supported British andAllied forces during the two world wars? Hear theremarkable, true story of just a few of those animals.5yrs+. Free: tickets on application.Thurs 24 Nov.UNDER 5S STORYTIME 3pm-3.30pm. Stories, musicand fun on the last Thurs of the month, then playtime inMudlarks. Free.


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34 November 2011®

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• I have 24 yrs experience in childcaring, based in Wandsworth andlooking to secure a positionworking 4-5 days (new-born - 12years). At present I job share for12 yrs for one family and 6 yrs foranother family. First Aid, CRBcheck, Ofsted registered. I can becontacted on 07930 223 789

• Ofsted registered child minder inSW16 has places available (3 mths-8 yrs old), from November. I'mfully insured, CRB Checked, 1st Aidtrained, 10 yrs experience inchildcare and excellent references.Please call Sandra on 07525 472017

• My name is Ana Paula, I am lookingfor a part time job as cleaner,housekeeper, nanny or mother'shelp. I am living in TootingBroadway and my phone number is07515 117 778

FOR SALE

• Want to enjoy the river and escapeLondon at weekends? A family-friendly speed boat with greatoutdoor space and a 240horsepower engine. Diesel-powered and suitable for sharing bytwo families. No licence required.Convenient, central mooring withfree car park. Full service history-see further details at fletcher-zingaro.blogspot.com £11,500ONO

• Small freezer, excellent condition,19" square, £40. Brand new,brown, furry cat bed, £10. Tel:07990 580 578

• Nintendo DS games (£8 each) +Harry Potter DVD game (£5); bikehelmet, (£5). Boden anorak 11-12yrs, £18 ONO; Peter Stormwaterproof trousers, (XS adult short length), £18 ONO;‘Skins’ brand sport layer top (adultsmall), excellent condition withCanterbury brand sport layershorts, both for £25 ONO. Pleasecall 020 8769 6400

• Latest Local events• Find your local services• Updated holiday listings• Latest Families mag online• Archive of past issues online• Competitions, book reviews...

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FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

November 2011 35®

PAINTING & DECORATING

Interior / ExteriorExperienced, Reliable, CleanFully Guaranteed / InsuredFREE ADVICE & QUOTE

John:- James & Lamont020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695

Reliable Handyman• Garden maintenance

and building work (fences, patios, sheds, etc..)

• Jobs around the house (carpentry, painting, fitting furniture, etc…)

• Computer maintenance(repair, teaching)

£20/hour or packages possible.Call Brian: 0774 513 6424

AMITY COMPUTER SERVICESHome and businesscomputers repaired

& managed.Consultancy and tuition

also available.

Phone Danny on8944 0681 or 07961 428 596

E-mail: [email protected]

Contact us:

020 8696 9680 Fax: 020 8696 9679 adverts@fam

iliesmagazine.co.uk w

ww

.familiesm

agazine.co.uk

JAMES ALLEN

020 8741 4242Prompt reliable seven day service for deep down

cleaning, removing dust, mites, dirt & stains

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANERSEst. 25 years

SERVICES

Come all the family and learn

Spanish with Pedro.

Group and individual lessons.

Call Pedro on 07956 699963

TUITIONHEALTH

SPEECH SPECIALISTSIndividual Tuition

Public Speaking, ConfidenceBuilding, Interview Technique,

Speech & DramaSW8 & SW19 Studios

Clare Price. LGSM, ALAM, SRD.(020) 7735 3156

HandymanReliable, skilled and tidy

General home maintenance, including:• Carpentry and painting

• Garden clearance and fencing• Flatpack assembly and fitted kitchens

Please call Nigel Fletcher for further details orfree quotation. 07988 983273

BUILDING ANDHANDYMAN SERVICE

Painting, decorating,carpentry, plastering.

Fit lights, switch, sockets.Change a lock, hang blinds,picture. Assemble furniture,

putting up shelves.CALL MARK 07834 069943

Classified ads

PAINTERS & DECORATORSGeneral Building Maintenance

"The perfect painters"Family-friendly painters, decorators,

plasterers, household jobs…Call Tony for a reasonable quote.

07930 348095

Learn to massageyour child

Massage is relaxing and bringsloving closeness.

Learn simple techniques in yourown home or your friend's. Hands-on parent and child

workshop by qualified massagetherapist and aromatherapist.

Call Lorraine on 079101 14153

HOLIDAYS

2 cottages in Cornwall- including sports facilities and

indoor & outdoor pools.

Please phone for details 01483 282471 or e-mail [email protected].

Cots, highchairs etc can bearranged too!

Counsellor/Psychotherapist Family/Couples/Individuals

Fathers’ GroupOver 10 years’ extensive experience

including: Addiction, Anger/Rage,Bereavement, Depression, Relationships

Problems, Crime/TraumaChristopher Clow UKRCP,

BACP (Accred), 07791 833 279 / 020 7585 1399

[email protected]

PLUMBERBATHROOM, TOILET,

RADIATORS, WASHING-MACHINES

REPAIR LEAKING PIPE, TAPCALL MARK 07851 260371


MUSIC

PIANO TUITIONFriendly, experienced and qualifiedteacher of children 6+ and adults.

Take exams or learn purely for pleasure.

Different styles covered.Home visits possible.

Mark Lester MA, CT ABRSM020 8870 7830

www.marklester.biz

Excellent TutorSuccessful 11+ results

for Francis Holland & Queen’s Gate.Cambridge graduate, Referencesavailable. Contact: Paula Vanninen

07754-059854

Traditional Cornish cottagein beautiful village of

St Tudy, north Cornwall.Fifteen minutes from stunning

sandy beaches of Polzeath,Trebarwith, Rock etc. Surfing,

sailing & masses to do for all thefamily. Reasonable rent; cottage

has 4 bedrooms, 1 bath,sitting/dining room, kitchen,

parking, garden. Near pub & shop. Enquiries:

[email protected].

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR DECORATION

WALLPAPER SERVICECOLOUR CONSULTATION

SERVICEFARROW & BALL • CRAIG & ROSE • DULUX HERITAGE

• DESIGNERS GUILD ETC.

Telephone: 020 8166 4375

Homework Help & Private TuitionChelsea, SW3 Maths & English

3yrs-11+ Call Laura: 07912 037769

HOLIDAY FLAT IN PROVENCE

Vaugines (Luberon), 30 min from Aix/Marseille. In the centre of an historical

village a flat on the first floor,accommodation for 2 to 5 people. One room with double bed, and

mezzanine two small beds.Huge living room looking on to the

Durance valley. Perfect pied a terre to visit and discover this part of Provence.

Price 400 Euros/week Dep 250 Euros. Please contact [email protected]

Ring us 00 33 474 67 59 17fax 00 33 474 67 50 29.

36 November 2011®

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