Families North London Magazine Issue 92 Sept/Oct 2011

Issue 92 Sept/Oct 2011

Free!

Covering the boroughs of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Hackney, Haringey, Islington and Westminster

www.familiesnorth.co.uk

Tel: 07766 227 810

Stagecoach Primrose Hill Parties!

Welcome to the magical mysteries of Stagecoach Primrose Hill Parties where we will take children on a roller coaster ride through their imagination and land them safely back home with a bulging bag of amazing memories!

Unforgettable stories and characters!Thrilling and exciting party games!

Murder Mystery

Parties for 11-16 years!

Stagecoach Primrose Hill

Enrolling now for

AutumnTerm

14-18 Years

Spectacular

Themed Parties for 4-10 years!

Themed parties venue

available

The original, largest and still the best Performing Arts School in the world

[email protected] www.stagecoach.co.uk/primrosehill

PLUS • Yoga after Birth

• Pilates and the Postnatal

Period

Back to school!

www.familiesnorth.co.uk2

Party Partyat

Celebrate in style at London's ultimatechildren's party venues

Simple, online booking.......

Free gift for all birthday boys and girls.......

From £13.95

for more information call 01708 768003www.kidspaceadventures.com

The Brewery, Waterloo Road, Romford, Essex RM1 1AU

1280_GENERIC quarter page ad-ROMFORD:Layout 1 8/1/11 8:50 AM Page 1

Discovery

Day

All welcome!

The original, largest and still the best network of performing arts schools in the world for 4-16 year olds, after school and at weekends.

Discovery

All welcome!

The original, largest and still the best network The original, largest and still the best network of performing arts schools in the world for

ACT NOW!ACT NOWSING! DANCE!

Your child is invited for a FREE fun-packed afternoon of dance, drama and singing.Your child is invited for a FREE fun-packed afternoon of dance, drama and singing.

Stagecoach Highgate is holding a ‘Discovery Day’ on Saturday 17th September at 2.30pm for 6-16 year olds.Held at: St Michael’s C of E School, North Road, Highgate N6

Call: 0207 272 8108to book a placewww.stagecoach.co.uk/highgate

Spaces are limited!

Established

1979

Tumble Tots is Britain’s leadingNational Active PhysicalPlay Programme for childrenfrom 6 months to 5 years

The springboard to confidence for your child

Call: 020 8381 6585Email: [email protected]/hampstead

Using specifically designed equipment your child will learn agility, balance, climbing and co-ordination skills appropriate to their age

A structured programme designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening and language skills

Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment

For Tumble Tots classes in Muswell Hill, Finchley Central and St John’s Wood

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11

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3 www.familiesnorth.co.uk

ContentsThis Issue 10 Back to School: 10 Give them a Healthy Start

11 School Matters

12 Education News

13 Is my child able to pass the 11+?

14 Moving on up!

18 Get set for Snow!

Regular Features4 News

7 Health: 7 Love your Lunchbox

8 Yoga after Birth

9 Pilates and the Postnatal Period

15 Five of the Best Educational Extras

16 Book Corner

19 Out & About

Issue 92 | Sept/Oct 2011 | Families North London

Families North MagazinePO Box 56943, London N10 9AE Tel: 020 8815 1351

Proprietor/Editor: Harriet TaylorWeb Manager: Melanie Carpigo [email protected]: [email protected]: Contact Kathy Brown on [email protected]: [email protected]: Positive2 020 8444 5050Print: Bishop’s PrintersNext issue: Nov/Dec 2011Focusing on: Festive FunDeadline: 7th October 2011

Welcome Shine up the school shoes, get the PE kits packed, sew on the name-tapes – it’s that time of year again! Whether your child is starting school for the very first time, or you are beginning to research secondary schools in your area, don’t miss our Back to School feature this issue packed full of useful and informative articles. Or, if you have just had a baby, our extended health pages have plenty of postnatal exercise ideas to get you inspired and regain your fitness levels to help you in this challenging world of parenting!

Harriet Taylor Editor

1016

5

Confidence, Communication and Concentration

perform.org.uk

Book your FREE Drama Class today

0845 400 1274

Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singing classes. Our weekly workshops will do wonders for their social, linguistic and physical development as well as being the best fun they’ll have all week.

Classes for 4–8s and 8–12s. Visit perform.org.uk to find your nearestvenue.

18


news

NewsGot some news for us? If you are a North London based group or organisation whose services or products are for families of young children, we’d love to hear from you. Send press releases and pictures to: [email protected]

who why where

ThEATrE Bugs BoosT CoNFiDENCE!

How about a drama class to build your child’s confidence ahead of their exams? With the dreaded 7+ and 11+ exams in January looming, Theatre Bugs will help your child’s confidence increase, boost self-esteem and nurture their imagination. The fun drama classes encourage communication, observation, problem solving, thought sharing and decision making… all fantastic preparation! For further information visit www.theatrebugs.co.uk or telephone 0208 209 0442.

BrEAsTFEEDiNg WELCoME sChEME!

Islington is fast becoming one of the best places in the capital to breastfeed openly! It is the latest place to introduce the Breastfeeding Welcome scheme, a campaign to encourage public venues to sign up to welcome breastfeeding mums. Although everyone knows that ‘breast is best’ for babies, most mothers in the UK stop breastfeeding before they want to. One of the reasons given for this is that they felt uncomfortable breastfeeding in public. So far, over 150 different places throughout Islington have signed up to join the scheme, from cafés, pubs and museums to health centres and council offices. Each venue displays a Breastfeeding Welcome window sticker to show mothers who wish to breastfeed that they will be welcome. www.breastfeedingwelcomescheme.org.uk

CrEATivE Wiz KiDs rELoCATE!

After 16 years at St Lukes Church, Hampstead, Creative Wiz Kids is moving in September nearby to Golders Green Parish Church in West Heath Drive to hold its classes. Classes will be operating four mornings a week in addition to morning and afternoon holiday clubs and customised birthday parties. New exciting afternoon classes are also planned for 2012! Creative Wiz Kids is one of the oldest Arts

and Music groups in the North London area. It was founded in New York City in 1990 by Painter/Poet Frances Bildner and has seen quite a number of children come through its doors! All the staff at Creative Wiz Kids are professionals in the Arts with a great deal of experience in their fields and especially with children. Come and be part of the new adventure! Bookings being taken now! Call 020 7794 679 or visit www.creativewizkids.com. rEgAL BALLET

Regal Ballet has proved to be a huge success since its launch 4 years ago and is continuing to expand due to popular demand! Regal Ballet offers ballet lessons to children from age 18 months up in a fun yet structured environment, where the happiness of the children is priority! For the older children from age 6, RAD exams classes are now offered! For adults inspired to learn ballet after the hit movie ‘Black Swan’, it’s never to late to learn! Adult beginner and intermediate classes offered in St Johns Wood. For more info call 07704290479 or email [email protected] to book a free trial lesson for you or your child! Visit www.regalballet.com to find the closest Regal Ballet venue to you!

w All inclusive fees (nappies, milk and food)

w Experienced managers with care focused and enthusiastic teams

w Flexible part time sessions and work friendly opening hours

w Safe & secure nursery environments

w Care for children from 3 months to 5 years

Call 0845 365 2988

www.kidsunlimited.co.uk

Save £50 on your registration fee

bring this leaflet with you

Find your nearest kidsulimited nursery

kidsunlimitednaturally inspiring childcare


news

5

CrEATivE FuN WiTh NATurE

‘Green Peas’ are bringing exciting new creative eco play activities to North London – nature & eco crafts afterschool clubs for 5-10 years old and natural messy play for under 5’s. Green Peas offer a unique opportunity for children to play creatively with natural objects. Under 5’s get messy and creative with grains, leaves, seeds and lots of paint whilst school kids have fun with nature collages, grains mosaics, and rock art! Materials used are recycled and natural, foraged locally. The classes are held in Muswell Hill and Crouch End. For further details please visit: www.greenpeasevents.co.uk or call Anna on: 0794 939 2708.

gET sET For gyMBorEE!

Gymboree triumphed yet again at the prestigious national ‘What’s On 4 Junior 2011’ Awards recently! The awards celebrate the best activity classes all over the UK – as nominated and voted for by the experts – parents! Gymboree Islington achieved national acclaim in the Best National Pre-School category. Competition was fierce in this year’s awards, with over 32,000 online votes cast. Jenny, Emma and Rachael of Team Gymboree Islington said ‘We are thrilled to have been voted the Best National Pre-schooler Development Activity for 2011 and would like to thank hundreds of our members and the thousands of Gymboree families nation-wide who took the time to vote.’ Gymboree Islington is based at Highbury Corner. For over 30 years they have been offering fun, interactive classes for children from newborn through to age 5. Classes include Newborn Sensory Exploration and Play and Learn sessions on their specialised equipment. Music sessions, art classes and even party packages also available. Contact Gymboree Islington on 07818 153700, or visit www.gymboree-uk.com.

ExPECTiNg A BABy? ExPAND your suPPorT NETWorK!

Are you expecting your baby in October, November or December? Here is a great opportunity to meet other families in Haringey expecting a baby around the same time… NCT Newsletter Editor Emma will be hosting (her second baby is due in October) and NCT antenatal teachers will be on hand to answer any questions about pregnant/birth/life with a new baby. There’s no need to book but if you are hoping to come along please do let them know so they can plan for numbers, and if you’re a facebook user you can RSVP on their site at www.facebook.com/haringeynct or drop an email to [email protected].

FAMiLy PhoTogrAPhEr suPPorTs ChiLDrEN’s hosPiCE

In conjunction with Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice, Russ Jackson is celebrating the launch of his new baby, child and family photography business by offering special discounted photography sessions. For just a £10 donation to Noah’s Ark,

professional photographer Russ Jackson will come to your home to photograph your children and family. You will then receive a 10”x 8” photograph of your choice from the pictures taken. Russ has been a photographer for the best part of ten years. His experience ranges from photographing one-day-old babies to 100-year-old birthday celebrations, and the stunning gallery of pictures on his website speak for themselves. As a father of two young children himself, Russ understands how precious our children are to us. Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice is a cause very close to his heart and one he will continue to support for a very long time to come. To book your special photography session telephone Russ on 07896 634015 or visit www.russjacksonphotography.co.uk (Offer available until 31 October 2011).

MoNKEy MusiC

Monkey Music is is synonymous with pre-school music groups and a rite of passage for thousands of babies and young children across the UK, nurturing a child’s lifetime love of music. Innovative weekly classes are entertaining and educational, encouraging social and musical skills within a fun, friendly environment. Specialist teachers make full use of the lively half hour sessions to captivate the children using a winning combination of catchy songs, percussion instruments, colourful visual props and boundless energy, with lots of opportunities for the children to experiment with the instruments and make music of their own. Classes are small and the children are grouped according to their age.Visit www.monkeymusic.co.uk and book a free trial.

sTAMPEDE iNTo ThE JuNgLE!

This term, Perform children in North London will not just be having fun acting, singing and dancing each week, they’ll be exploring the jungle! Kids will explore tropical rainforests full of colourful wild adventures,

and meet Eli the Elephant, Snow the White Tiger, the cheeky Cheetah and go on an exhilarating Jungle Rumble. What’s more, they’ll enjoy themselves so much that they won’t notice how much they are improving their communication, concentration and co-ordination skills at the same time. Any interested 4-8 year old can try out the classes by attending a Free Trial Session. Classes run in Hampstead, Hampstead Garden Suburb, St Johns Wood, Primrose Hill, Highbury, Totteridge Village, Finchley, Southgate, Muswell Hill, Highgate, Hadleywood, Stoke Newington, Crouch End and Barnet. Phone: 0845 400 1274 or visit www.perform.org.uk quoting Families North.

6

news


As seen on London News, ITVHOLIDAY CLUBS for 3 -7 year oldsYear round Programmes 1 -3 yrs

Customised Art & Music Birthday Parties1-12yrs and after school club

020 7794 6797email: [email protected]

www.creativewizkids.com

enjoy a ball 64 a copy 30/3/07 14:08 Page 1

We are looking for babies and children betweenthe ages of 0 and 12 years to assist us in arange of fun activities investigating how childrensee.

The Child Vision Lab is based at the UCLInstitute of Ophthalmology in Central London.We will refund any travelling costs up to £20.

020 7608 6819www.childvisionlab.org

£500 – £2,000 per month

Home Based Business

“Without compromising your home or business life”

Global Product (Est. 29 years)

“Look Good Feel Good Industry”

TIME FOR A CHANGE?NEED EXTRA INCOME?

Call: Alison or Ian on 01923 232242

You could be anything from a parent, struggling to balance work/life through to topping up your pension … People from ALL walks of life …If you are honest and ethical and have a desire to succeed, we would like to hear from you.

Free Ironing ServiceOnce the children are tucked up in bed, your babysitter will do your ironing!

www.sittingprettybabysitters.co.uk07971 083207

• ALL sitters fully vetted and background checked• Daytime or evening babysitting• Excellent rates• Free ironing service

PROFESSIONAL BABYSITTING

Sports coaching for 3-9 year olds in afun, positive and non-competitive environment. Classes running inFinchley, Mill Hill andHampstead Garden Suburb.Children’s parties also available!

Call 08452 262694 tobook a FREE trial session.

Enjoy-a-Ball

www.enjoy-a-ball.com

enjoy a ball 64 a 4/11/08 17:34 Page 1

A FLEECE For ALL sEAsoNs!

We road tested the wonderful fleece jackets from Polarn O. Pyret on an Alpine adventure in the summer, and just had to write home about the quality and versatility of this most useful and quite frankly vital piece of kit for kids! The windproof and water-resistant soft fabric is warm yet lightweight and breathable,

the children just loved the thumb grips, and with cuffs that can be rolled down for extra growing room you really do get value for money! The fleece is lint-free so it does not bobble with wear, and has safety reflectives and striped zip pull reflectors. The zips are cleverly covered to protect little chins and cheeks from chafing. The small, smart standing collars, and pre-bent sleeves for increased mobility aided comfort whilst we were trekking. My kids used them as an alternative to a sweater, rather than leaving their jacket back at base camp! The bright unisex colours are fresh and funky, and name tag space for two or more names means they are just perfect for handing down to brothers or sisters. They are machine washable at 40˚ and can also be tumble dried, though they dried for us very quickly draped from the roof of our tent! For more information visit www.polarnopyret.com

DEBuToTs – ENhANCiNg your WEEK!

Recently nominated Franchisee of the Year, Jennifer will now also be delighting children at Arts Depot, Finchley with Debutots’ unique interactive storytelling and dramatic play sessions. Contact 020 8442 2380 or [email protected] to arrange a FREE taster for your 6mths-4yr old in Finchley, Muswell Hill, Crouch End or Hampstead.

Don’t forget to say you saw the ad in Families North!

7

health


Packed lunches need to provide your child with a third of their daily nutritional requirements.

Therefore this food should be carefully planned in order to provide them with a nutritious lunch. Get the balance right: ideally, this should contain Protein (essential for building, maintaining and repairing body tissue such as bones, cartilage, ligaments, teeth and nails), Carbohydrates (the body uses carbohydrates as the main source of energy and keeping warm), fruit and vegetables (to provide many vital minerals and vitamins as well as valuable

fibre), water or fruit juice, and perhaps… an occasional treat (‘a treat isn’t a treat if it’s eaten more than twice a week!’) Although wholemeal bread is preferable to white bread, white bread is higher in calcium and other vitamins, usually because the flour is fortified. However, because most of the fibre has been removed from white bread then add a fibre rich vegetable or dried fruit such as dates, apricots or raisins. See some healthy lunch ideas on page 10 to inspire you more or visit our website.

Love your lunchbox! by Nutritionist Kirsten Davies BSc NTP BANT

sNACKs oN ThE MovE!

A new range of healthy snacks packaged in the Munchcup® from Benjoy. Anti-spill, ‘less mess’ packaging and an easy solution for a lunchbox treat. 100% natural ingredients, try freeze dried fruit slices, wholesome multigrain bites and mini vegetable crisps. Available at selected Morrisons and Waitrose stores plus online.

For personal consultations please contact [email protected] or telephone 07780007361 www.thefoodremedy.co.uk

PackIt from www.trendykid.co.uk £14.99A compact and versatile foldaway lunchbox needing no ice pack to keep its contents cool.


North London

Win this Fireman Sam ‘Spin & Rescue’ game, or how about a copy of ‘The Incredibles’ on Blu-ray? The competitions keep coming, so get set for the holidays, and log on to www.familiesnorth.co.uk/competitions to enter!

Win goodies and games for the kids this Summer!

FAMILIES NORTH FORMAT(....YOUNG AS 3 MONTHS) NOV2010Size: 62mm deep x 87mm wide

Little Angels day nursery for children fromas young as 3 months.

“Children are happy and thoroughly enjoy their time at nursery” (Latest Ofsted Highbury)

A warm and caring environment with special facilities for the very young, Little Angels can and do offer one-to-one care whilst your child is settling in.

Our staff to child ratio is amongst the highest in London, so babies in particular are always closely supervised by qualified and enhanced CRB police checked carers. As a matter of principle we do not employ agency personnel and we are proud that many of our staff have been with us for years.

For more information and to arrange a personal guided tour, call Caroline Thompson now:

Tel: 020 7354 5070 (Highbury)Tel: 020 7281 3514 (Highgate)Email: [email protected]

Little Angels Day Nursery and Pre-prep Schools217 Blackstock Road, Highbury, London N5 2LL • 70 Bredgar Road, Highgate, London N19 5BF

Although wholemeal bread is preferable to white bread, white bread is higher in calcium and other vitamins, usually because the flour is fortified.


coming in contact with the ground and the abdominal muscles strengthening. When you breath in relax everything. Exhaling again emphasise the footprints – on the inhalation relax. Carry on this pattern of breath with movement a few more times and then allow all the muscles in the body to release and breathe freely... When you are finished roll over onto your side, staying for at least half a minute so your body can adjust before coming to upright. Use your hands for support when you come up – this will protect the abdominal muscles and keep your spine nice and long.

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health


Yoga can be a wonderful way of finding some calm within the many highs and lows of the postnatal period.

The responsibility of a new little person and the seemingly endless haze of feeding, changing nappies, more feeding and then more nappies, can sometimes feel as though there is little time for oneself. Even just a few moments of relaxed breathing can be very nurturing. A yoga posture which gives space in a tired body can feel really good to do – toning the muscles and bringing a sense of well being. Or maybe you are exhausted and crave some much needed rest to energise for the tasks ahead... Here is a yoga relaxation posture which you can do anytime of the day (or night!) to unwind and clear the head – I have included a gentle optional abdominal toner – if you want to reawaken the

stomach muscles... Begin by lying on the ground gently hugging your knees towards you. If your baby needs to be close to you – place him or her on your chest... Breathe... Then when you are ready place your feet on the ground, knees bent towards the sky. Let your hands rest by the sides of your body with the palms up. Give the weight of your body to the ground and try to settle your thoughts. If your thoughts keep racing use your breath as a focus – notice when you are breathing in and notice when you are breathing out... Rest and breathe here as long as you can... This posture Savasana realigns the spine and nurtures the many systems of the body. For an abdominal toner, still in Savasana, place your hands on your belly. Each time you breathe out emphasise your footprints into the ground and feel the back of your waist

Yoga after birth by Claudia Weston

A yoga posture which gives space in a tired body can feel really good to do.

For further information visit: www.cloud9yoga.orgwww.yoga4mums.comwww.elaines-yoga.comclaire@yogabugs.com


health

Pilates and the postnatal period This is a crucial time for new mothers to work on rehabilitation and strengthening of their core muscles.

Particularly after the pressure that the pelvis has been put under during pregnancy, and the added stress of labour itself, pilates can be a great help. With the vulnerability of the integrity of the pelvis from bearing down and / or caesareans, and then the manual load from lifting and carrying, more and more women have the potential for back trouble as their spinal support weakens. Pilates can substantially help towards a woman’s recovery from the effects of pregnancy and childbirth, and give focus to your week, plus an all important energy boost! Pilates helps women regain their strength and fitness, and efficiently targets abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. Core muscles can gently be re-

awakened with regular practice, and abdominal muscles that have separated during pregnancy and birth can weave back together again. At The Pilates Place in Crouch End, you can enjoy machine based pilates, and an individual programme to work from. Babies are welcome in postnatal sessions, and their small friendly classes are ideal for postnatal mums who want to get their strength back, but don’t want to leave baby behind! For mat based classes, try Your Pilates, whose popular classes are a great source of comfort to the mums who attend – and the women support each other, learning about their bodies as they progress through the course. With two instructors running the class someone is always on hand to help mums catch up if they have had to stop to feed/comfort baby in tow.

www.your-pilates.co.ukwww.pilatesplace.co.ukwww.pilatespromise.com

Fun, Creative YogaforÊ childrenÊ agedÊ 2½Ê toÊ 12Ê years!

CallÊC lare:Ê Ê 0845 863 0680 orÊ [email protected]

Clare-118mmx70mm-1.pdf 1 11/10/2010 17:48

• Mondays 6.30-7.30pm St Mary’s Crypt, Upper St N1• Wednesdays 6.30-7.30pm Highbury Roundhouse N5

Promiseilates

Pilates Classes

Small classes and one-to-one sessions at your home with Jackie Johnson, Qualified Pilates Foundation teacher

07796 955334 [email protected] www.pilatespromise.com

Pilates can substantially help towards a woman’s recovery from the effects of pregnancy and childbirth, and give focus to your week, plus an all important energy boost!

10

back to school


• Freshfruit,forexample–apple,pear,apricots, cherries or raspberries

• Oatcakeswithafewslicesofgoodquality cheese or hummus and some cherry tomatoes

• Hardboiledegg

• Asmallpotofbrownricesalad(mix with sweet corn, tomatoes and cucumber chunks, olive oil, a pinch of natural sea salt and a squeeze of lemon juice).

It is also helpful to give growing children a few well-chosen supplements to ensure that they are receiving all the nutrition they need. A good kids’ multivitamin and mineral can help

energy levels particularly if a child is tired or run-down, or eats little in the way of fresh vegetables and fruit (but should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet). Choose one that is free of artificial sweeteners or other additives. To help support the immune system, a probiotic (‘friendly bacteria’) or a kids’ beta glucan supplement can be beneficial. Beta glucans are thought to trigger receptors on the body’s immune cells to help strengthen the immune response. For concentration and learning, a good children’s fish oil may be particularly beneficial and may also help to reduce hyperactivity. Another common problem for children at school is head lice. Neem-based shampoos can be very effective at getting rid of the lice and are a good natural alternative to treatment shampoos containing insecticides.

When our kids go back to school, we want them to be in the best of health, full of energy and able to resist all those bugs that can go around.

A great first step towards this is to ensure they are eating good healthy food. It has often been said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and sending children off to school on a good breakfast will ensure that they get the best start to the day. Examples of good nutritious breakfast foods include wholegrain sugar-free cereal, muesli sprinkled with a few chopped nuts and fresh berries, or wholemeal toast with scrambled egg. For lunch, a common concern for parents is what to give children to take to school if the school dinners aren’t up to scratch. A basic rule here is to make sure we include one or two servings of fresh vegetables or fruit and a good source of healthy protein. Some simple and healthy options include:

• Wholemealbreadsandwichwithfree-range fresh turkey slices and some slices of cucumber or cherry tomatoes

• Smallsticksofrawcarrotorcucumberwith a little pot of hummus

• ChickenlegsleftoverfromtheSundayroast

• Naturalyoghurt(sugar-free,live)mixed with a few chopped nuts and raisins or goji berries.

• Smallpotofcherrytomatoes

Give them a healthy start!

CoMPETiTioN CorNEr!

This issue could score you extra brownie points with your kids, as we have some fun and fabulous prizes to win on our website.

Up for grabs is a bumper prize of £50 worth of cool new ‘Tinc’ stationery. The lucky winner will handpick from a selection at the brand new Westfield store.

Or how about a Badgeit badge making kit?

There are some really fun prizes. The beautiful and tactile Circular Calendar that will help even the youngest children understand the cycle of the year.

Log on to www.familiesnorth.co.uk/competitions and enter today!!

Win!

Back to school tips and advice from Nutri Centre Head Nutritionist, Shona Wilkson

Consult our website for a list of independant school open days. Visiting a school first hand tells you so much more than the prospectus alone.

www.familiesnorth.co.uk/opendays

We have it all covered!

Directory oF ScHooL

oPeN DAyS iN NortH

LoNDoN

Make sure you have chosen the right school for your child, with these simple ways to monitor the progress of the school and that of your child.

So you have been through the dilemma of choosing the school and now your child is settling into their new environment. Your job is done... or maybe not. Now it’s time to start thinking about how to monitor your child and the school’s progress. Are the teachers doing their best for your child? Did you choose the right school? How do we keep an eye on things, simply and easily, without joining the PTA? Getting a clear and accurate sense of day-to-day life at the school is

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back to school


School matters By Elisabeth Dolton

Too cool for school

Clockwise, from above:

• ShootingStarerasers www.paperchase.co.uk

• LadybirdPackback www.minene.co.uk

• Satchel www.room7.com

• DoodleSnackpots www.paperchase.co.uk

• Windandwaterproofcoat www.polarnopyret.co.uk

imperative. An easy first step is to look at information readily available about every school. Once a year, look at these figures for your school, and see what’s changed. If an area has worsened, ask your child’s teacher why, and what is being done about it? Check the school has good steps to tackle them. Seek evidence that what is planned is being put into place. The best way to check that the school is right for your child is to ask the people who work there. Regular meetings with teachers are an effective way to monitor your child’s progress, performance and results. Take a morning off work and attend a class if that is possible. Book a short appointment with the Head teacher. Ask them what the school’s strengths and weaknesses are, the school’s priorities this year, and ask yourself would I hire this person to work in my office? Finally, ask does my son/daughter appear to be content at school? If the answer is yes, then that’s pretty good. Ask teachers to show you examples of successful work, compare it to your

child’s work, and see where your child can improve. As a parent, you play an important role in your child’s academic achievement. Taking steps to monitor the school and track progress helps you know the school is the right one for your child.

rELEvANT WEBsiTEs

www.ofsted.gov.ukwww.schoolinspectionservice.co.ukwww.ISI.netwww.bridgeschoolinspectorate.co.uk

If an area has worsened, ask your child’s teacher why, and what is being done about it? Check the school has good steps to tackle them.

EDEN PriMAry oPENs iTs Doors

Haringey’s newest primary school is opening this September with a full class of 30 reception children. Eden Primary is a Jewish school with a refreshingly original ethos: it is open to everybody, irrespective of their religious beliefs. Diversity, tolerance and understanding for all people are at the core of Eden’s ethos. It teaches a full, balanced curriculum while providing a

Jewish education from which all children can benefit. For its first year, Eden is occupying temporary premises in Fortismere School. But from September 2012 it will have its own, purpose-designed building. Construction work begins in September on the site at 79 Creighton Avenue. The building will be original, flexible and inspiring, as the artist’s impression shows. For further information, visit www.edenprimary.org.uk


back to school

Education news

BrAiN ExErCisE ProgrAMME For ChiLDrEN WiTh LEArNiNg DiFFiCuLTiEs

by Usha Patel of Raviv Practice

Bal-A-Vis-X (Balance Auditory Vision eXercise) is an education programme new to this country. It has been running very successfully in the United States and several other countries. It was developed by respected teacher and writer Bill Hubert over 30 ago to help children with special educational needs in his own classroom when he was a primary school teacher.

Why is it effective?Bal-A-Vis-X helps communication across the key regions of the brain such as the visual, the motor and the auditory. The co-operation of these regions, together with information transfer across the brain hemispheres, is required for effective learning and reading. If this communication does not exist, then it results in the body not being able to implement instructions provided by the

brain. This in turn manifests as a learning difficulty. In the early years, these links between the key regions of the brain start forming when the child is developing co-ordination skills. If these links are not fully developed by the time the child starts school then they may have difficulties with everyday school work. Some problems are fairly apparent, such as when a child has difficulties holding a pen or is constantly bumping into things. There can also be less obvious problems with foundation skills such as visual tracking, sequencing or processing speed which play a key role in comprehending aural information.

How does it help?Bal-A-Vis-X helps address these problems in an enjoyable way. It is a physical programme which uses beanbags and racquet balls and incorporates rhythmical throwing and catching. The exercises vary in complexity from one ball bouncing exercises, to six ball bounce juggling. Exercises require peer co-operation which creates student cohesion. Aside from the community spirit, the individual exercises are designed to improve co-ordination and communication across both parts of the brain’s hemispheres resulting in brain and body integration.

Mars Montessori Bilingual Nursery

Islington Green (Angel). 2-5 year olds. 8.00 am - 6.00 pm

2 days, 3 days or 5 days a week 47 weeks a year 020 7704 2805

www.marsmontessori.com

French-English Bilingual Nursery School

St George’s HallCrayford Road(entrance on

Carleton Road)

London N7 0ND020 7697 8110

www.lespe�tesetoiles.co.uk

To read more about the Bal-A-Vis-X programme please visit our website www.familiesnorth.co.uk where you can see the article in full.


back to school

A full consultancy package for parents to determine the most suitable school for their child.

Mobile: 07003 451785Email: [email protected]: www.katiekrais.com

Services include:

•Uptodateadviceonstate,stateselective,independentandfaithschools.

•SpecialistknowledgeofNorthLondonschoolsandadmissionscriteria.

•Helpwithapplicationforms,dates,deadlinesandunderstandingadmissionscriteriaforeachschool.

•Adviceforparentsofchildrenwithspecialneeds.

•Knowledgeabouthowyourchildcomparesagainstthenationalaverageandotherscompetingforyear7places.

•Adviceonthebest11+preparationbooksandresourcestobuy.

•Helpforex-patslookingtofindschoolplacesbackinBritain.

Is my child able to pass the 11 plus?New pencil case. New shoes. New uniform. New school bag. Once you have spent the pennies and pounds on all your child’s ‘essential’ back to school items it’s time to look at their academic future.

They are one year on and one year nearer to secondary school. Which secondary school will be right for them and is it worth preparing and sitting them for the 11+ exams? To find this out you need to know their academic level – how bright are they and are they reaching their potential. Whichever group your child

is in, it’s really important to know if this is where they should be. If they are performing in the middle group and they have average potential then this is absolutely the right group for them. But what if they are underachieving at school and have the potential to do so much better and pass the 11+? How do you know? One way is to have an academic assessment with an educational consultant. These consultants will test both your child’s potential ability as well as actual current performing level and allow you to know if your child is meeting their own potential and how their abilities can be moved on. Good consultants will also give you ‘what next steps’... tutoring recommendations and advice on how to further support your child. Tests should always be given using standardised scores as these are the scores that are used for most 11+ entrance examinations.

www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk020 8447 4530

JIGSAW WEEKEND PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOLS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

TTWO TWO WEEKAL

3–18 YEARS

VENUES IN:. . . . .CAMDEN. . . . .

CROUCH END. . . . .ENFIELD. . . . .

FINCHLEY. . . . .HENDON. . . . .

WINCHMORE HILL. . . . .AND MORE

For further information and academic assessment bookings please contact Katie Krais on: Mobile: 07956111728, email: [email protected] or see www.katiekrais.com and www.jaderbergkrais.co.uk


Whichever group your child is in, it’s really important to know if this is where they should be. If they are performing in the middle group and they have average potential then this is absolutely the right group for them.


back to school

schools tend to have much better facilities). Many teachers no longer want to spend their free time coaching sport, and, unfortunately, sporty kids tend to play their sports at clubs outside school (or ironically, in after-school clubs on school premises, but run by other people). Do encourage your child to play sport, in or outside school, as it will set them up for life. And take heart: the revised curriculum recently announced by the Government promised an element of competitive sport.

THE NExT STEP: SECoNDARy SCHooLS It’s vital for you to start thinking about secondary schools before your child enters Year 6. So, you need to look up OFSTED reports, find out about schools near you and speak to local parents. There may be all sorts of application criteria which you need to address a year or so ahead (for faith schools, for example), and if you’re choosing a school which selects its pupils in some way (either academically or in a particular area such as music) you might want to think about hiring a tutor. You should plan to go on Open Days when your child is in Year 5 (or earlier if you’re very keen!).

benefits were negligible. As a child moves up the school, I think homework can help with exam preparation and possibly time-management skills. But I’m not convinced that children need so much of it. However, the reality is that homework does exist, so here are some tips to ease the pain:

1 Find somewhere quiet to do it – not in front of the TV or around loud younger siblings.

2 Set up a workstation – a desk or table rather then the floor.

3 Don’t do it too late – your child, and you, shouldn’t do homework when you’re too tired.

4 Don’t help if you don’t know – it’s confusing if you offer help with maths, but don’t know the methods your child uses.

5 If all else fails, offer bribes – for instance, tell them they can play on the computer only after they’ve finished.

SPoRT AT SCHooL You may notice that your child plays a lot less school sport than you used to. PE is part of the National Curriculum, but not a big part. In Key Stage 1, children will take part in some combination of dance, games and gymnastics twice a week, but dancing to nursery rhymes never really appealed to my daughter. In Key Stage 2, they continue with these, but add in athletics, ‘outdoor pursuits’ or swimming (still across only two sessions a week). One major problem is that lots of schools don’t have sporting facilities and playing fields have been sold off (private

A new school year and it’s not just the children who have things to learn. Sarah Ebner takes a look

As your child moves up the school, they (and you!) will face all sorts of different issues. Here are three which I’m pretty sure you’ll encounter…

HoMEWoRK You’ll soon look back upon the days of reading books and learning individual letters as a halcyon time. And if you’re anything like me, you might find that homework is taking up far too much of your – and your child’s – time. The Government is keen to promote homework and offers specific guidelines. These suggest an hour a week for Years 1 and 2, one and a half hours a week for Years 3 and 4, and 30 minutes a day for Years 5 and 6. The idea behind homework is that it builds on what children have learnt at school. The aim is to help learning and encourage children to study on their own and be self-disciplined. It’s not supposed to rely on parents teaching their children new concepts. But for pupils, homework can become a real burden, and doesn’t actually seem to enhance learning a great deal. It’s worth noting that there’s no definite link between homework and student achievement. In fact, for primary-school children, there appears to be no link at all. A review of 75 years’ worth of studies by the University of London’s Institute of Education found that the

Moving on up! by Sarah Ebner

Sarah Ebner is the author of The Starting School Survival Guide: everything you need to know when your child starts primary school, published by White Ladder and available from bookshops and Amazon, www.amazon.co.uk/Starting-School-Survival-Guide-everything/dp/1905410875.

The Starting School Survival Guide: everything you need to know when your child

School-Survival-Guide-everything/

15

back to school


5Five of the Best:

Educational Extras!

1Teaching Trends60 High Road, East FinchleyLondon N2 9AS 020 8444 4473

www.teachingtrends.co.uk Here is a great shop packed full of learning resources for primary aged children. Teachers

stock up on material for the classroom, alongside parents looking for educational games, workbooks and more to inspire and assist learning.

2 Kumonwww.kumon.co.ukWith centres all over North London it is

not difficult to find extra maths or English help for your child to help them unlock their true potential. Start them at a young age and they could soar through their times tables by the time they reach Key Stage 1!

3 Surviving School Transferwww.katiekrais.com A full consultancy package to determine

the most suitable school for your child.

4 Uniform for Kids1103/1105 Finchley Road, Temple Fortune, NW11 0QB

Tel: 020 8209 0999 www.uniform4kids.com

In addition to the obvious array of uniforms, they have an extensive range of sportswear with great brands such as Nike, Puma, Lotto and Jansport, together with stationery from Helix and Casio, hair accessories and of course – name labels!

5 First Newsinfo.firstnews.co.ukEntertains and enlightens while inspiring

all of its many young readers to take a keen interest in the world around them. Why not get your kids a newspaper of their own delivered weekly to get them ahead with current affairs?

www.debutots.co.uk

Imagination takes you everywhere...

Local venues Nurseries Schools Children’s Centres Parties

story drama play6 months – 7 years

Baby Story PlayDipping their tiny toes into the world of stories, words and sounds, babies and toddlers delight in a multi-sensory blend of storytelling, puppets, bubbles and music.Early Years DramaGrowing in age and poise, children are inspired by each weekÕ s magical tale to share their own ideas and feelings as they creatively explore the characters, scenery and sounds together.Family Story PlayAn engaging blend of our two class formats Ð perfect for siblings, childminders and childrenÕ s centres.

[email protected], 020 8211 3389 – Islington, Camden, St John’s Wood

[email protected], 020 8442 2380 – Finchley, Hampstead, Muswell Hill

Stores throughout the UK & Eire and online. www.polarnopyret.co.uk

Fleece Jacket with thumb grips. £39.00Kids just love them!

10% OFF COATS, RAIN TROUSERS

& FLEECE JACKETS.

This voucher may be redeemed in any Polarn O. Pyret store or concession in the UK and online.

Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, voucher or discount valid until 01.11.11.

Online code for 10% and FREE P&P voucher FMAW11.

Find you nearest store at polarnopyret.co.uk

16

book corner


Book corner

Star Wars™ Character Encyclopedia (DK)Everything you ever wanted to know about your favourite classic Star Wars characters, this comprehensive and fun look at the beloved film franchise is the ultimate character reference guide for fans of all ages. Featuring all new text,as well as stunning images and movie stills in a new, chunky format. The simple layout of one character per page, arranged alphabetically, makes it easy for readers to find their favourite Star Wars heroes and villains.

Hello Kitty 123 (Ladybird)

An adorable, super-cute board book for babies and toddlers to enjoy, this vibrant title is a perfect first introduction to numbers 1 to

10. Three other Hello Kitty books to collect ranging from Touch and Feel Playbook to the sturdy Buggy Book, perfect for the smallest of hands.

King Jack & The Dragon by Helen oxenbury & Peter Bently (Puffin)

An irresistible knights-and-dragons fantasy for the very young, in the tradition of Oxenbury’s enduring classic We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.

Jack, Zack, and baby Caspar spend all day fighting dragons in their homemade fort. But when Sir Zack and Caspar are taken inside for bed, King Jack – alone on his throne – finds himself feeling a bit less brave... especially when he hears a thing approaching, a thing with four legs. A rollicking read-aloud with a charming surprise ending and Helen Oxenbury’s spare, expressive illustrations, this kid-pleaser is a classic in the making.

Rapunzel by Lynn Roberts (Pavilion Children’s)

Meet a funky flares-clad heroine and a truly terrifying villain in this wonderful re-working of the classic and

much loved fairytale. Set in the sizzling seventies, this lively retelling is bursting with quirky and colourful detail.

Star

look at the beloved film franchise is the ultimate

ages. Featuring all new text,as well

17

clubs and classes


Browse our website to see the huge array of clubs and classes in North London on offer for your children.

www.familiesnorth.co.uk/ clubsandclasses

We have it all covered!

Directory oF eXtrA-

cUrricULAr ActiVitieS

Since 1993 thousands of children across the UK havegrown up with Monkey Music. Our unique teachingcurriculum was written by classically trained musicians,and introduces music to very young children in a waythey can easily understand and enjoy.

Music classes for babiesand young children!

Action songs and rhymesMusic and movementFun with percussionMusical games

It’s fun, formative and a great way of making friends!

Rock ‘n’ roll - from 3 monthsHeigh ho – from 12 monthsJiggety jig – 2 & 3 year oldsDing dong – 3 & 4 year olds

all rhythm andno blues!

Hampstead & Notting Hill 020 8451 7626Muswell Hill, Crouch End & Highgate020 8889 0114High Barnet, Mill Hill & Whetstone020 8449 4025Southgate, Winchmore Hill & East Barnet 020 8360 2730

www.monkeymusic.co.uk

®

Beginners Classes:Wednesday 16.30Hampstead Garden SuburbThursdays 17.45Swiss Cottage

020-8445-2588www.panthakarateclub.co.ukinfo@panthakarateclub.co.uk

for children aged5 to 14 years

B_Panthakarate.pdf 1 28/03/2011 10:20

Trapeze SchoolFor children (from 2 1/2 years old)

At the Primrose Hill community centreHopkinson’s Place

NW10797 345 1603

[email protected]

La Libellule

La LibelluleTrapeze School

For children (from 2 1/2 years old)

0207 284 0631/0797 345 [email protected]

At the Primrose Hill community centre

Hopkinson’s Place NW1

school or childcare, do name their clothes to avoid mix ups with others.

• Don’tforgetthatsunblockisjust as important on a winter holiday as it is in the summer. Take sun block rather than spray so that you don’t have to take your gloves off to rub it in!

18

travel


from the airport to your holiday accommodation, try to sit as near to the front of the bus as possible – then there’s less chance of the windy roads making your children sick.

• It’spointlesswastingmoneyonexpensive ski clothes – they’ll only outgrow them by next year! Check out The Skiwear Service with showrooms in Hampstead and Park Royal stocking super-cool new snow boots and a wide range of affordable quality kit!

• Ifyourchildrenareattendingski

Paul and Francesca moved to Morzine eighteen years ago, started a family ski company and had 3 children.

We asked them to tell us about the most important things you should consider when taking your family on a ski holiday.

• Don’trushtohighaltituderesortsbecause children can sometimes get altitude sickness. It’s also unsafe for babies under the age of 1 to go up in high cable cars because of the air pressure.

• Findingaresortwithaneasy,shortairport transfer will be a blessing! Also check that your airport transfer company is properly licensed and has the child car seats that you’ll need.

• Whileyou’reonyourtransfervehicle

Issue 46 : (E)

www.skiwearservice.co.uk

THESkiwear

SERVICE

To visit us in our Hampstead or Park Royal showroom call

0207 435 6246 Or to buy online take a look at our website:

• Everything you will need for your ski holiday in one easy visit.• Skiwear, snow boots and all the accessories.• Kit out the whole family: babies through to adult• Excellent quality and affordable prices

Get set for snow

For more information contact Chilly Powder on 020 7289 6958 or phone the Skiwear Service on 020 7435 6246 (don’t forget to mention you read about them in Families North!)

Don’t forget that sun block is just as important on a winter holiday as it is in the summer.

school or childcare, do name their clothes to avoid mix ups

block isjust as important on a winter holiday as it is in the summer. Take sun block rather than

19

museums out and about


Your guide to North London family entertainment

Out & AboutMuseums

BANK oF ENGLAND MUSEUMBartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH ( Bank)020 7601 5545bankofengland.co.uk

open House WeekendSeptember 17, 18Guided tours of parts of the Bank not normally accessible to the public.

The Big DrawOctober 24 – 28 Design a bank note.

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN HoUSE36 Craven Street, WC2N 5NF ( Charing Cross) benjaminfranklinhouse.org

Georgian CraftsOctober 25 Toy making workshops to discover how Georgian children entertained themselves. Booking recommended. 5 – 14 years. Cost £5.

BRUCE CASTLE MUSEUMLordship Lane, N17 8NU ( Seven Sisters)020 8808 8772haringey.gov.uk

Sunday Fun DaysSeptember & October Family art and craft activities on Sundays. Free.

CARTooN MUSEUM35 Little Russell St, WC1A 2HH ( Tottenham Ct Road) 020 7580 8155cartoonmuseum.org

Family DaysSeptember 10, October 8Drop-in cartooning activities. Also special workshops during school holidays. Entrance £5.50/children free.

CHURCHILL WAR RooMSClive Steps, King Charles Street, SW1A 2AQ ( Westminster)020 7930 6961 iwm.org.ukout of the Box September 17, 18Examine replica items such as coats, hats and cigars and original items belonging to Churchill. Drop-in

020 7930 3070householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk

Half-term ActivitiesOctober 24 – 29, 11.30am Craft activities based on the history of the Household Cavalry. 5 – 11 years. Booking recommended. Children free with fee paying adult + small charge for materials.

StorytellingOctober 25, 2.15pm Suitable for 3 – 8 years.

JEWISH MUSEUMRaymond Burton House, 129 – 131 Albert Street, NW1 7NB ( Camden Town)020 7284 7384jewishmuseum.org.uk

Shanah Tova! September 18Design and decorate cards. Family workshop. Cost £4.

Shofar Hallabaloo! September 25Family music session. Admission £7.50/£3.50.

Sukkot WorkshopOctober 9 Create decorations to take home. Bookable. Admission £7.50/£3.50.

LoNDoN CANAL MUSEUMGatti’s Ice House, 12-13 New Wharf Road, N1 9RT ( Kings Cross)020 7713 0836 canalmuseum.org.uk

Tunnel Boat Trips September 18, 25 One hour trip on the Regent’s Canal

through Islington tunnel. Book in advance. Cost £8/£6.

Children’s ActivitiesOctober 25Boat trip and craft sessions. Accompanied 6 – 12 years. Cost £4/£4.

Amazing Halloween ExperienceOctober 29, 30 Spooky boat trips and scary stories. Charges apply.

MUSEUM oF LoNDoNLondon Wall, EC2, ( St Paul’s)020 7001 9844museumoflondon.org.uk

Characters from HistorySeptember 11Learn about Roman London. 5+ years. Free.

Museum ExploredSeptember 18, October 2, 16Activities to explore the galleries. 5+ years. Free.

StorytimeSeptember 27, October 25Interactive story sessions. Under 5 years. Free.

Half Term EventsOctober 22 – 30 Workshops on Diwali, movement and song sessions and sounds of the calypso. 5+ years.

MUSEUM oF LoNDoN-DoCKLANDS West India Quay, E14 4AL (DLR West India Quay)

sessions. Admission £14.50/ children free.

FoUNDLING MUSEUM40 Brunswick Square, WC1N 1AZ ( Russell Square)020 7841 3600foundlingmuseum.org.uk

Marching BandOctober 1Craft activities and a musical parade. Booking required. 3 – 12 years. Children + 2 adults free admission.

Design a CrownOctober 27 Decorate a crown with jewels and sequins. Booking required. 3 – 12 years. Children + 2 adults free admission.

GEFFRyE MUSEUMKingsland Road, E2 8EA ( Old Street)020 7739 9893geffrye-museum.org.uk

Free activities for accompanied children 5 – 11 years. Tickets allocated on the day.

Brilliant BuntingSeptember 24Create hanging decorations.

Magnetic MadnessSeptember 25Paint a ceramic magnet.

HoUSEHoLD CAVALRy MUSEUMHorse Guards, Whitehall, SW1A 2AX ( Charing Cross)

Invented by a north London mum of three, international award-winning Me Finder™. More info online.RRP £14.99, with FREE P&P

Buy now online www.kidsshowandtell.com

When your child is lost, they “Show & Tell”– Show a safe adult – & Tell them to “phone mummy”– Stay where you are

Stores up to 5 phone numbers – mummy, daddy, grandma…

them to “phone mummy”

Select your number when you go out

The NEW digital wristband that helps your child when they get lost

out & about museums • theatres


020 7001 9844 museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands

A Pirate’s Life for MeSeptember 4, 11, 18, 25 7+ years. Free.

Mini Mudlarks Babies GroupSeptember 19, 26October 3, 10, 17, 31

Musical sessions. 6mths – walkers. Booking required. Free.

Story TimeSeptember 29 Story sessions and music. Under 5 years. Free.

Half Term ActivitiesOctober 22 – 30 Pirate-themed workshops and stories. Some ticketed events. Free.

NATIoNAL GALLERyTrafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN ( Charing Cross)020 7747 2885nationalgallery.org.uk

Free Family SundaysSeptember & OctoberCraft activities, talks and story telling sessions on Sundays and school holidays.

NATIoNAL PoRTRAIT GALLERySt Martin’s Place, WC2H OHE ( Leicester Square)020 7306 0055 npg.org.uk

Family Art WorkshopSeptember 17, October 15 Free art activities. 5+ years.

Family StorytellingSeptember 17, October 15 Drop-in sessions. Free. 3+ years.

Half Term ActivitiesOctober 22 – 30 Special holiday creative sessions.

PETRIE MUSEUM oF EGyPTIAN ARCHAEoLoGyMalet Place, UCL, WC1E 6BT ( Euston Square) 020 7679 2884 ucl.ac.uk

Bloomsbury FestivalOctober 23, 1 – 5pm Includes children’s activities mid-afternoon.

Hair Then and NowOctober 26 Family workshop on Egyptian hairstyles, wigs, braids and African Combs.

RoyAL AIR FoRCE MUSEUMGrahame Park Way, NW9 5LL ( Colindale)020 8205 2266rafmuseum.org.uk

Battle of Britain WeekendSeptember 10, 11Talks, tours and concerts. Make and paint a Spitfire Airfix model. See

In the Night Garden LiveSeptember 10 – 24 Musical theatre with familiar characters.

CHICKENSHED Chase Side, N14 4PE ( Cockfosters/Oakwood)020 8292 9222chickenshed.org.uk

Tales from the ShedSeptember 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 October 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 Interactive performance with music and magic. Under 7yrs. Cost £5.50.

;Saturday ShedSeptember 10, 17, 24October 1, 8, 15, 22, 19 Performance skills workshops. Booking recommended. 6 – 12 years. Cost £6 per session.

HACKNEy EMPIRE291 Mare Street, E8 1EJ (Hackney Central)020 8985 2424hackneyempire.co.uk

Britain’s Got BhangraOctober 12 – 16 Lively music and rhythm. Cost £9.50 – £27.50.

HALFMooN THEATRE43 White Horse Road, E1 OND (Limehouse Station)020 7709 8900halfmoon.org.uk

Theatre SeasonBegins in October Full details available on website.

HAMPSTEAD THEATRE Eton Avenue, Swiss Cottage, NW3 3EU ( Swiss Cottage) 020 7722 9301hampsteadtheatre.com

Pocket ComedySeptember 26 – October 1Introduction to Shakespeare with The Comedy of Errors. 8+ years. Cost £15/£10.

JACKSoNS LANE 269A Archway Road, N6 5AA ( Highgate)020 8341 4421jacksonslane.org.uk

The Way Back HomeOctober 9Will a young boy find his way back home after landing on the moon? 3+ years. Cost £8.95.

The Balloon GardenerOctober 16 A garden of whacky delights! 4+ years. Cost £7.95

Two Four Six Eight!October 23 Craig is invited to his friend’s birthday party. 4 – 7 years. Cost £7.95.

The Insect CircusOctober 25 – 30 Creepy crawly fun for all the family. Cost £12.95/£10.95/family £40.

LAUDERDALE HoUSEHighgate Hill, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG ( Archway)020 8348 8716lauderdalehouse.co.uk

The Tall Tale of Mollie WhuppieSeptember 19 Tale of courage and adventure. 3 – 7 years.

Kate Shortt Comedy CelloSeptember 24 Musical fun. 3 – 8 years.

Teddy Bear’s PicnicOctober 1 By Humble Pie Theatre. 2 – 6 years.

Kan Kan the KangarooOctober 15 By Jactito Theatre. 3 – 8 years.

LyRIC THEATREKing Street, Hammersmith, W6 ( Hammersmith)0871 22 117 29lyric.co.uk

The Wild BrideSeptember 7 – 24 A journey from girlhood to womanhood. 11+ years.

animals from Belmont Children’s Farm. Free.

Big DrawOctober 24 – 28 Watch aviation artists at work and draw an aeroplane. Free.

Witch WeekendOctober 29 – 30 Craft activities. Free.

SIR JoHN SoANE’S MUSEUM13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, WC2A 3BP ( Holborn) 020 7440 4263soane.org

They Came from the Shadows!October 26Shadow puppets and ghostly tales. Booking required. Whole day workshop. 7+ years. Cost £20.

Crazy CapitalsOctober 27Greek temples. Booking required. Half day workshops. 7+ years. Cost £12.

Spooky Skeleton PuppetsOctober 28 Puppet making and stories. Booking required. Half day workshops. 7+ years. Cost £12.

Theatres

ARTS DEPoTTally Ho Corner, North Finchley, N12 ( West Finchley & Woodside Park)020 8369 5454 artsdepot.co.uk

The Way Back HomeOctober 27 – 30 A young boy flies his plane to the moon where he meets a friendly Martian. 3+ years. Cost £9/family £32.

BARBICAN CENTRESilk Street, EC2Y 8DS ( Barbican) 0845 120 7550barbican.org.uk

South PacificEnds October 1 Lincoln Center Theater production. Cost £15 – £85.

BLooMSBURy THEATRE15 Gordon Street, WC1H OAH ( Euston) 020 7388 8822thebloomsbury.com

Horrible HistoriesOctober 4 – 15 The awful Egyptians and the ruthless Romans come to life on stage. Cost £18.50/£14.50.

BRENT CRoSS CENTREHendon, NW4 3FP ( Hendon Central)0844 581 1250

Chickenshed Theatre

21

theatres • workshops • special events out and about

Workshops

BAL-A-VIS-xLondon W2 07766 837 616 intergratedbrain.co.uk

SEN WorkshopNovember 11 – 13 Series of balance, auditory, and vision exercises suitable for teachers, parents with SEN children and therapists. Early bookings discount.

CAMDEN ARTS CENTREArkwright Road, NW3 6DG ( Finchley Road) 020 7472 5500camdenartscentre.org

Clay for Infants & JuniorsOctober 25 – 28 Fictional landscapes. 5 – 11 years. Cost £140.

Sound Machines for Infants & JuniorsOctober 25 – 28 Using digital and hand crafted materials. 5 – 11 years. Cost £140.

CIRCUS GLoRyPrimrose Hill Community Centre 07973451603circusglory.co.uk

Half Term WorkshopOctober 26 Circus skills including trapeze, hula hoop, juggling and plate spinning. 3+ years. Cost £30.

CREATIVE MoVEMENTSHeld at St Marys, Primrose Hill, NW3 3DJ020 7435 8217creativemovements.co.uk

Snow White & the 7 DwarfsOctober 18 – 20 3 – 5 years. 10% discount for early bookings.

Themed WorkshopOctober 25 – 27 4 – 8 years. 10% discount for early bookings.

CREATIVE WIZ KIDS020 7794 6797creativewizkids.com

Half Term ClubsOctober 24 – 28 At Golders Green Parish Church, West Heath Drive, NW3 7QG.

Fun activities. 3 – 9 years.

PERFoRM0845 400 1274perform.org.uk

Half-term Perform ExperiencesOctober 24 - 28

MILLFIELD ARTS CENTRESilver Street, Edmonton, N18 1PJ (Silver Street )020 8807 6680millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Abba ForeverSeptember 16 Cost £19/£17.

Roary the Racing Car LiveSeptember 17, 18 Brand new stage production. Cost £15.50/£13.50.

Little Howard’s Big ShowOctober 2 Cost £12/£10/family £40.

PEACoCK THEATREPortugal Street, WC2A 2HT ( Holborn)0844 412 4322sadlerswells.com

Havana RakatanSeptember 13 – October 9Dance and music from Cuba. Half price children’s tickets. Cost £15 – £42.

Some Like it Hip HopOctober 20 – November 19 Comic tale. 7+ years. Children half-price. Cost £12 – £38.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGEBlomfield Road, Little Venice, W9 2PF ( Warwick Avenue)020 7249 6876 puppetbarge.com

Brer Rabbit & the Tar BabySeptember 1 – 5, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, October 1, 2 Barge will be moored in Richmond for this show.

The Three Pigs & The Wolf / Captain GrimeyOctober 22 – 28 Double bill with the Three Pigs and Captain Grimey who is the dirtiest sea captain in the world! 2 – 6 years. Cost £10/£8.50.

RoyAL oPERA HoUSECovent Garden, WC2E 9DD ( Covent Garden)

020 7304 4000roh.org.uk

The Sleeping BeautyOctober 22 – December 21

SADLER’S WELLS & LILIAN BAyLIS STUDIoRosebery Avenue, EC1R 4TN ( Angel) 0844 412 4300sadlerswells.com

White CapsOctober 21 – 23 Champloo Dance Company at Lilian Baylis Studio. Cost £12/£7.

SoUTH BANK CENTREBelvedere Road, SE1 8XX ( Waterloo) 020 7960 4200southbankcentre.co.uk

FUNharmonicsOctober 23 Family concert with LPO. Cost £18 – £10/children half price.

UNICoRN THEATRE147 Tooley Street, SE1 2HZ ( London Bridge) 020 7645 0560unicorntheatre.com

Billy The KidSeptember 24 – October 30Billy’s Chelsea dream – adapted from a novel by Michael Morpurgo. 8+ years. Cost £8 – £19.

The Magician’s DaughterSeptember 17, 18, 24, 25 Written by Michael Rosen, based on The Tempest with puppets and songs. 3 – 6 years. Cost £11/family £32.

Under a Foreign SkyOctober 4 – 8 Three young immigrants make a fresh start. 13+ years. Cost £11.

Call Mr RobesonOctober 18 – 23 Paul Robeson’s eventful life. 13+ years. Cost £11.

Videk’s ShirtOctober 25 – 30 Puppets and live music. 2 – 5 years. Cost £8/family £24.

yoUNG VIC66 The Cut, SE1 8LZ ( Waterloo)020 7922 2922youngvic.org

Street SceneSeptember 15 – October 1New York City musical. Cost £10 – £29.50.

Hamlet From October 28 Michael Sheen plays Hamlet. Cost £10 – £29.50


PLAyING SPACESouthgate, N14 020 3083 8887theplayingspace.co.uk

Half-term Drama WorkshopOctober 24 – 28 4 – 8 years. Cost £87.50.

WHITECHAPEL GALLERy77 – 82 Whitechapel High Street, E1 7QX ( Aldgate East) 020 7522 7888020 3326 2090 bookingswhitechapelgallery.org

Drawing WorkshopsSeptember 10, 17 October 1, 8, 15 Booking recommended. 10+ years. Cost £50 for 5 sessions.

Special events

ALExANDRA PALACEAlexandra Palace Way, N22 7AY ( Wood Green)020 8365 2121 alexandrapalace.com

Dolls House & Miniatures FairOctober 23 Sales and demonstrations. Cost £6/£2.50.

ANGEL CANAL FESTIVALCity Road Lock/Regent’s Canal, N1 ( Angel) angelcanalfestival.org

FestivalSeptember 4Boat trips, entertainment, music, theatre and displays. Free entry.

BARNET WALKSPaul Baker020 8440 6805barnetwalks.talktalk.net

Battle of BarnetOctober 16 Guided walks. Cost Cost £7/£3 under 12s.

Halloween Ghost WalkOctober 28 – 31 Spooky walk through High Barnet and Monken Hadley. Costume prizes. Cost £7/£3 under 12s.

BUCKINGHAM PALACESW1W 1QH ( Victoria)020 7766 7302royalcollection.org.uk

The Big Draw at the Royal MewsOctober 22, 23 Drawing event in the activity room. Entry to The Royal Mews only £8/£5/family (2+3) £21.25/under 5s free.

BURGH HoUSE & HAMPSTEAD MUSEUMNew End Square, NW3 1LT ( Hampstead) 020 7431 0144burghhouse.org.uk

Billy the Kid at the Unicorn Theatre


Halloween PartyOctober 28Spooky stories, ghostly games, fancy dress and weird and wonderful tea! Advance booking only. Under 10 years accompanied. Cost £15.

EARLS CoURT Exhibition Centre, Warwick Road, SW5 9TA ( West Brompton)eco.co.uk

The Baby ShowOctober 28 – 30 Shopping, advice and information on birth, baby and beyond.

EFDSSCecil Sharp House2 Regent’s Park Road, NW1 7AY ( Camden Town)020 7485 2206 efdss.org

Apple DayOctober 15 Celebrate the apple – with workshops, storytelling and music. Ticketed.

FENToN HoUSE – NATIoNAL TRUST Windmill Hill, NW3 6RT020 7435 3471nationaltrust.org.uk

Apple WeekendSeptember 24, 25 Stalls, children’s activities, demonstrations and bee-keeping. Cost £3/£1.

FoRGE VENUE3 – 7 Delancey Street, Camden, NW1 7NL ( Camden Town)020 7383 7808 forgevenue.org

Making ChocolateSeptember 10 Learn to make chocolates. 10+ years. On-line booking. Cost adults £25/children £12. One child free if working together with adult’s ingredients.

Wildlife PhotographyOctober 1Demonstrations and tips on how to photograph wildlife. Cost £20 per adult + 1 child free/2+ children £5 each.

FoRTy HALL Forty Hill, Enfield EN2 (M25/J25)020 8363 8196enfield.gov.uk/fortyhall

Enfield Town Autumn ShowSeptember 3 – 4Annual community festival held at Enfield Town Park, Cecil Road, EN2 6LE. Cost £3/children free.

HAMPSTEAD HEATH ( Kentish Town/Hampstead)020 7332 3322 020 7482 7073 (bookings)cityoflondon.gov.uk/hampsteadheath

Rookie Rangers Wildlife ClubSeptember 25 Booking required. 8 – 12 years.

Heath Heritage Festival & Conker ChampionshipsOctober 9, 11am – 4pm Parliament Hill Bandstand

Halloween ActivitiesOctober 24 – 28 Adventure playground. 5 – 12 years.

The Secret Spooky GardenOctober 29 Secret Garden, Parliament Hill.

HARINGEy NCTnct.org.uk/[email protected]

Autumn Speed BumpsSeptember 7, 8pm Question time at World Café, 130 Crouch Hill, N8 9DY – for those mothers expecting a baby October/ November/December. Email to confirm attendance.

Nearly New SaleSeptember 17, 10.30am – noonAt Union Church Hall, Weston Park, N8 9TA.

HIGHGATE WooD020 8444 6129cityoflondon.gov.uk/highgatewood

Moth Identification EveningSeptember 7

Walk to Look at FungiOctober 5Booking required.

KEATS HoUSEKeats Grove, NW3 ( Hampstead)020 7332 3868cityoflondon.gov.uk/keatshouse

Follow the DragonOctober 2Family event with living history, re-enactments and costumes.

KENTISH ToWN CITy FARM1 Cressfield Close, NW5 4BN ( Kentish Town) 020 7916 5421ktcityfarm.org.uk

Apple DayOctober 30 Half term activities all week ending with the annual event, family fun day with music, food stalls and games. Cost £1/£0.20.

KINGS PLACE90 York Way, N1 9AG ( Kings Cross) 020 7520 1490 kingsplace.co.uk

Kings Place FestivalSeptember 8 – 11

Mozart with Puppets!September 9Puppet tales and musicians. 2+ years. Cost £4.50.

out & about special events • further afieldFun on TarporleySeptember 10 Canal boat trips. Booking required. Cost £6.50/£5.

Fairytale FantasiaSeptember 10Concerts with introductions to the instruments. 5+ years. Cost £4.50.

Musical Magic Carpet RideSeptember 10Musical styles. Priority booking for children with special needs. 7 – 12 years. Cost £4.50.

Tuba Bears PicnicSeptember 10 Live music with tubas. All ages. Cost £4.50.

Tots Concert September 11Interactive music and stories. 2 – 3 years. Cost £4.50.

LAUDERDALE HoUSEHighgate Hill, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG ( Archway)020 8348 8716lauderdalehouse.co.uk

Drawing & PaintingFrom September 12 Styles and techniques. 5 – 12 years.

Family Friendly ConcertsSeptember 18, October 2, 16Children welcome. 6+ years. Cost £7/£1.

Spooky Walk & Adventure Trail!October 31Halloween fun. Booking required. Cost £6.

LEE VALLEy PARKEnfield, EN2 9HG 08456 770 600 (M25/J25) leevalleypark.org.uk

outdoor CinemaSeptember 9, 10 Held at Lee Valley White Water Centre, EN9 1AB. Bring picnic and warm clothes. Check web for family films and prices.

King Harold DayOctober 8Held at Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1XD. Displays and demonstrations. Cost £2.50/children free.

LoNDoN oPEN HoUSE londonopenhouse.org

Weekend ActivitiesSeptember 17 – 18 Many buildings open their doors this weekend free of charge. Tour areas not normally accessible to the general public.

PEARLy KINGS & QUEENSSt Paul’s Church, Bedford Street, WC2E 9ED pearlysociety.co.ukHarvest FestivalOctober 9 Charity collections.

ST MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDSTrafalgar Square, WC2N 4JJ ( Charing Cross) 020 7766 1100stmartin-in-the-fields.org

Mini Maestro Family ConcertSeptember 17, October 29 Musical fun and games. Cost £8.50/£6.50.

SUTToN HoUSE – NATIoNAL TRUST2 & 4 Homerton High St, Hackney E9020 8986 2264nationaltrust.org.uk

House of ArtsSeptember 17 Dolls and puppet making. All ages. Admission charges apply.

Family DaySeptember 25 Dance classes. Booking recommended.

(THE MAyoR’S) THAMES FESTIVAL thamesfestival.org

FestivalSeptember 10 – 11Annual free celebrations with food events, workshops, markets, music, parades and fireworks finale.

WEMBLEy ARENAArena Square, Engineers Way, HA9 OAA ( Wembley Park)wembleyarena.co.uk

Disney on Ice: Worlds of FantasyOctober 25 – 30 Cost £16.75 – £48.85.

WIGMoRE HALL36 Wigmore Street, W1U 2BP ( Bond Street)020 7935 2141 wigmore-hall.org.uk

open House DaySeptember 17 Creative music workshops and performances. Free drop-in event. All ages.

AbracadabraOctober 15 Family concert. Booking required. 5+ years. Cost £7/£5.

Further afield

CAPEL MANoR GARDENSBullsmoor Lane,Enfield, EN1 4RQ (M25/J25)08456 122122 capelmanorgardens.co.uk

City Harvest FestivalSeptember 17Displays by local community farms and gardens. Cost £5.50/£2.50/under 6 years free.

RoyAL ALBERT HALLKensington Gore, SW7 2AP ( South Kensington) 0845 401 5045royalalberthall.com

Proms in the ParkSeptember 10Celebrations in Hyde Park with special guests. Cost £32.50.

SCIENCE CENTRE THE oBSERVAToRyHerstmonceux, Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 1RN 01323 832731the-observatory.org

Half Term ActivitiesOctober 24 – 30 Telescope tours and science shows with special workshops at extra cost. Entrance £7.80/£5.85.

23

further afield out and aboutHalloween HowlerOctober 30Craft activities, face painting, ghost stories and tractor rides. £5.50/£2.50/under 6 years. Free.

ELTHAM PALACE & GARDENSGreenwich, SE9 5QE (M25/J3 or Eltham Station)english-heritage.org.uk

Ghosts & GhoulsOctober 23 – 25Halloween crafts and activities. Cost £9.30/£6.60.

EPPING FoRESTVisitor Centre, High Beach, IG10 4AE ( Epping)020 8508 0028020 8502 8500 (Field Centre)cityoflondon.gov.uk/epping

Discovering BadgersSeptember 25 Field Centre event. Booking required.

Half Term ActivitiesOctober 25 – 28 Varied events.

HMS BELFASTMorgan’s Lane, Tooley Street, SE1 2JH ( London Bridge)020 7940 6300iwm.org.uk/hmsbelfast

Signalling & SignalsSeptember 10 – 11 Send a message using naval communications. Adults £12.25/children free entry.

oSTERLEy PARK & HoUSEJersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB ( Osterley) 020 8232 5050nationaltrust.org.uk

Craft Cart September 1, October 27 Trails and family craft activities. Admission £8.25/£4.15.

Discover DaysSeptember 25, October 30 Craft sessions and story telling. Admission £8.25/£4.15.

open HouseSeptember 17 – 18 Explore the park house and gardens. Entrance £8.25/£4.15.

o2 ARENAPeninsula Square, SE10 ( North Greenwich)theo2.co.uk

Ben 10 Monster Truck ManiaSeptember 10 – 11 Live show with trucks, motorcycles, stunts and cartoon hero Ben 10.


Piano LESSonSAges 5 – Adult All levelsCRB checked

TEL. 07792 052 919 www.pianotalents.co.uk

House Extension DesignDo you need more space at home? I provide a professional & efficientArchitectural design service. Call JamesVesica Design – 07908 687 289

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Delightful, original puppet shows, magic and games

www.pippinpuppets.co.uk Tel: 02083484055

SALLY SUNSHINEFACE PAINTING FUN !07837 713 699

WATFoRD PALACE THEATREClarendon Road, Watford (Watford Junction)01923 225671watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

Friend or FoeSeptember 20 – October 1Stage production of Michael Morpurgo’s exciting tale of two boys evacuated during WW2. 8+ years. Cost £9/£7.50.

WWT LoNDoN WETLAND CENTREQueen Elizabeth’s Walk, SW13 9WT (Barnes station) 020 8409 4400wwt.org.uk/London

Bats and Spiders WeekendOctober 22 – 23 See a different side to normally scary creatures. Entrance £9.59/£5.32.

Activity party specialists:Trapeze, Rope, Juggling, Hula-hoop,

Diabolo, and Devil’s Sticks, Plate Spinning, Stilt Walking and more…

0797 345 [email protected]

CIRCUS GLORY

circus_glory_dev.indd 3 11/04/2010 09:41

Contact us for details:


Drama Dance SingingHalf Term & Christmas holiday courses in NW3Star in exciting, original dance shows, musicals & playsNow booking Autumn Term Saturdaymorning Drama & Dance classes.

Football training for under 5s who are nuts about football

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CRB checked & FA qualified coaches

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kiddikicks.co.uk020 7937 7965

CRB checked & FA qualified coaches

kiddikicks.co.uk

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Half Term & Christmas football courses in NW3Plus: Now recruiting players to join Under 12s, Under 10s and Under 8s teams in the North London Youth Football League. Teams will be formed in Hampstead, Highgate, Finchley, Mill Hill, Hampstead Garden Suburb & St John’s Wood for the 2010/2011 season.

t: 07826 020 908 e: [email protected]

Edgware Mill Hill Whetstone* Cockfosters* North Finchley*We’ve been providing a fun learning experience for pre-school babies and toddlers since 2004...

Fun, interactive, music and movement classes

Stimulating songs, actions, instruments, props and bubbles

Book a FREE trial to experience the magic for yourself

AGES 3 MONTHS TO 4 YEARS

*Introductory Offer: 20% offthe term’s fees at our

new locations*

It’s one thing buying kids the latest trainers, but giving them a head start in a sport is a real investment. Obviously, we can’t promise you a future star, but we can offer them the foundation they need to lead a healthy and active life.APPROVED FOOTBALL TRAINING FOR KIDS FROM 18M TO UNDER 7YRS

North & North West London, South Herts/Middx 020 8201 1084Southgate & Enfield areas 020 7431 9967Islington, Barbican & North East London 020 8958 2808

Documents

Families North London Magazine Issue 92 Sept/Oct 2011