Little London Autumn 2019

YOUR ULTIMATE GUI DE TO PARE NTING IN STYLE

WIN! £5 to spe

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STEL McC L ARTA NEY AUTUMN 2019 • £4.40

Capital checklist when and where to go this season

HOLLYWOOD ACTRESS

Naomi Watts The role of a mother

B Ryoung I G Hthings T

Konnie HUQ MY LONDON HOT SPOTS

CITY SLICKERS GREAT BREAKS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Snowflake parenting

ARE YOU HOLDING YOUR CHILD BACK?

BUGS AT BAY

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR HEALTHY AND HAPPY KIDS

+ INSIDE LOOK LONDON’S NEW PREP SCHOOL – PRINCE’S GARDENS

+ YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT! THE BEST BRAIN FOOD FOR LITTLE LEARNERS + HOMEWORK READY HOW TO ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD’S LEARNING

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Time for the kids, time for you, time together With exceptional, flexible childcare in all our family friendly ski resorts, everyone gets an amazing ski holiday, including mum and dad.

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FROM A SELECTION AT NEWBIESTORE.COM

WELCOME And just like that, we enter pencil case pandemonium time; but there’s something quite nice about the back-to-school reset. A moment to get all your ducks in a row. This issue, we focus on health, happiness and helping you ease back into the school run with your sanity still intact.

Now is the perfect spell to ensure your house is homework ready. Sounds like a challenge? Fear not. Interiors guru Ali Howard has found the hottest desks in town that will have homework writing itself; see page 88. Did you know the kitchen plays a big role in brain productivity? We’re all familiar with that old saying you are what you eat, but food can impact the way we think, too. That’s crucial for little learners. Nutritionist Jo Saunders explains the brain-boosting nutrients we all need in our diet, plus her vitamin B3-rich fruity chicken recipe will see you putting it all into practice on page 92.

This issue has seen me reminisce about my own childhood, as one of my favourite Disney films, The Lion King, comes back into the limelight. I can’t believe it’s 25 years since it first hit our screens, but the new release has my inner child leaping with joy. And what better theme for a birthday bash? Our resident party expert, Carole Middleton, shows you how to throw your very own roarsome Lion King-inspired celebration; see for yourself on page 44.

Growing up in the West Country means I know that it makes a wonderful holiday destination. Devon dweller Becky Dickinson has toured this corner of England to find the best family-friendly hotels on page 106. For somewhere further afield, don’t miss Holly Tuppen’s South African road trip on page 100.

To ensure your little one arrives at the school gates in style, we’ve teamed up with Stella McCartney to offer a £500 voucher to spend on its super Back to School collection. Find all the details on page 17.

RE BECCA MOORE , E DITOR A n d a fe w of my favour ite th ing s at the mom e nt…

DUNGAREES £32 POLARNOPYRET.CO.UK

WALL PRINT £15 FROMPEA.COM

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INSULATED BOTTLE £22.95 KLEANKANTEEN.CO.UK

COTTON TOP FROM £30 THEBONNIEMOB.COM

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LIEWOOD BACKPACK £35 MAMAANDMAX.COM

RUBBER BOOTS £45 TRETORN.COM

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Valley Farm is rich in heritage yet bursting with modern facilities. Situated close by to the beach and lively Clacton Pier, this is seaside heaven.

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Time to start a new photo album...

C O N T E N TAutSumn 2 019 FE ATU R ES 17 WIN ! A £ 500 STELLA McCARTNEY VOUCHER The new Back to School range is here

104 CITY SLICKERS Urban holiday spots that little ones will love

28 MY LITTLE LONDON TV presenter Konnie Huq reveals her top family-friendly spots in the capital

30 LITTLE LEARNERS The best educational books for little readers

40 WATTS’ WORLD Actress Naomi Watts talks motherhood

76 WHAT’S THE ALTERNATIVE? Top natural remedies for common ailments

106 THE BEST OF THE SOUTH WEST Family breaks in Cornwall and Devon

EDUCATION 47 EDUCATION NEWS What’s new in and out of the classroom

49 PRINCE’S GARDENS PREPARATORY SCHOOL We take an exclusive look inside the new London prep school that’s ensuring

78 SMILE, PLEASE !

Expert advice on children’s oral hygiene

80 A SENSITIVE SUBJECT How to care for eczema-prone skin

children are prepared for everything

61 THE GOOD AU PAIR GUIDE Ways to make sure it’s a perfect match

64 LIFE LESSONS How to talk to children about serious issues

82 LIFE SKILLS Why all parents should learn first aid

66 PLAYING IT SAFE The importance of letting kids take risks

88 HOT DESKING Ali Howard rounds up the best kids’ desks

92 FOOD FOR THOUGHT Brain-boosting nutrients for little ones

94 THE CASE FOR ORGANIC Is organic food worth the extra pennies?

SHO PPIN G & ST YLE 21 LITTLE LOVES

68 BRIGHT BEGINNINGS Princess Charlotte’s introduction to school

R EGUL A R S 13 LITTLE NEWS The latest on all things big in kid world

32 INSTA INSPO We meet Jonathan at @jonathanjoly

We adore Flik Flak’s playful watch designs

44 PARTY TIME : CAROLE MIDDLETON 23 FALL FORWARD

How to plan a Lion King-inspired celebration

Kidswear we’re coveting this autumn

75 HEALTH NEWS 34 WEAR THE MAGIC

What’s new in the world of wellbeing

Wizard-inspired designs from Mini Boden

85 INTERIOR NEWS 70 COMING TO TOWN

Inspiring finds from brands large and small

Newbie takes inspiration from the carnival

86 GET CRAFTY

T R AVEL

Seasonal activities to keep kids busy

91 FOOD NEWS

97 TRAVEL NEWS What’s new in the world of family travel

98 POSTCARD FROM ISTANBUL PHOTOGRAPHER: LOL JOHNSON LAYLA WEARS HOGWARTS CREST SWEATSHIRT, £28-£32.

CORD DRESS, £28-£32, BOTH FROM BODEN.COM

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Georgina Blaskey explores this historic city

100 HIT THE ROAD Holly Tuppen ventures to South Africa

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The latest foodie finds for your mini diners

109 AGENDA The best events for families in the capital

114 THE BUSINESS We chat to the founder of Tutu Du Monde

THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS HOLLY TUPPEN

EMMA O’DONOVAN

Travel writer

Journalist Where do you live?

Where do you live?

Southfields, London.

Dorking, famous for a five-toed breed of chicken and award-winning sparkling wine.

Your favourite family summer holiday?

Devon, for crabbing from pretty harbour walls, being last on the beach, exploring rock pools, romping across endless fields and admiring the clearest night skies.

Three words to sum up the back-to-school period?

Back to normality.

Holly heads to South Africa on p.100

Your favourite family summer holiday?

Croatia; there’s something for everyone.

Three words to sum up the back-to-school period?

Pencil case mayhem.

Emma rounds up the best books on p.30

little london EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MAXINE BRIGGS EDITOR AT LARGE KATE FREUD EDITOR REBECCA MOORE SUB EDITOR NATALIE KEELER FREELANCE SUB EDITOR SALLY JONES EDITORIAL ASSISTANT HENRIETTA EASTON DIGITAL CONTENT PRODUCER RUBY NORRIS

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS LEONORA BAMFORD, MARISSA HERMER, CAROLE MIDDLETON, EMMA FREUD

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H T A B E H T N I S H G U A L E R MO

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london NOAH

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARK GRAHAM

Say hello to South Coast beach dweller, and big brother to Rosie, Noah. This adorable four year old is often found making his own epic dinosaur worlds, or reading up on all things sea creatures and superheroes. He doesn’t leave the house without his growing selection of killer whale toys! We can’t get enough of that cheeky little grin.

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D L I M E B O BORN T

H E RE ’S A W IL D ID E A.

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Family Fun Together

We create outstanding small group and tailor-made family adventure and activity holidays worldwide. From tots to teens we can offer a range of varied & exciting itineraries with family-friendly guides.

“Our consultant Sally was just excellent. She helped us choose the right kind of holiday for our family, and was very knowledgeable throughout”.

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Pilling family – Rainforests & Islands, Thailand

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• Ride in a tuk-tuk • Play on fantastic beaches • Snorkel with thousands of fish

• See the great pyramids of Giza • Sail on a felucca • Swim with dolphins in the Red Sea

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NEWS

little NEWS Updating you on all things big in kid world

A handy helper to have, this fun Fitbit will keep your little ones movin'

FIGHTING FIT

Get your kids up and moving with Fitbit’s brand-new model Ace 2 for ages six plus.

Little wearers will learn healthy habits and be encouraged to spend more time having active fun with friends and family. The bold colours, animated clock face and fun personal avatars will keep kids motivated to complete their daily challenges, and the protected screen is helpful for any accidents that may occur! £69.99, fitbit.com

Bounce past obstacles, tumble through tunnels and slide your way to the finish at Bouncezilla at Thorpe Park! In the morning it’s reserved for families with kids aged six to 13. But be quick, it’s bouncing out on 8 September. thorpepark.com LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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NEWS

MUCKING ABOUT Peppa Pig is off on another adventure!

Hunter announces a limited-edition collection inspired by the much-loved children’s character, just in time for Peppa’s visit to her first music festival! Splash about in muddy puddles wearing brightly coloured wellies and be rain-ready with a waterproof backpack and bubble umbrella, all in Peppa-inspired camouflage patterns.

From £30, hunterboots.com

Let your kids make a big splash wearing Peppa Pig-inspired wellies and waterproofs

Start-Rite and footwear charity Shoe Aid are encouraging parents to donate old kids’ shoes. The initiative aims to help the environment and the 70 million children worldwide without access to school-suitable shoes. shoeaid.co.uk PL AYG RO U N D PAL S

Start the school year right with everyone’s favourite fluffy friend Miffy, and her brand-new back-to-school collection. It features handy snack pots and lunchboxes, backpacks and pencil cases, and even a Super Stationery Set complete with pencils, rubbers and a Miffy notebook that little learners will love using every day. This quirky collection is sure to turn heads in the playground. From £9, miffyshop.co.uk

Let’s get moving

Kids can keep cool with Reima’s elastic Xylitol Cool fabric, for children who love to exercise. The plant-based material has a cooling affect activated by body moisture after 10 minutes of wearing. Xlyitol is safe on sensitive skin, stylish to wear and the cooling effect will last for at least 20 washes so kids can keep on moving. From £19, reima.com

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LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

NEWS

MAKE GOING BACK TO SCHOOL FUN FROM A SELECTION AT WHITESTUFF.COM

BEATLE MANIA

Stella McCartney gets back in touch with her roots as she launches the All Together Now collection featuring motifs and graphics from the iconic Beatles film Yellow Submarine, which celebrated it’s 50th anniversary last year. The collection features classic lyrics like ‘All you need is love’ and is made from sustainable material in a collective effort to love and save the planet.

From £48, stellamccartney.com

MY PICKS THIS SEASON

T

Kate Freud Editor-at-large

hose clever folks at White Stuff have captured all the stuff that makes going back to school fun, and stamped it all over its autumn collection.

We’re talking everything from scissors and rulers to magnifying glasses and bugs, and even an apple for the teacher’s pet adorning T-shirts, dresses and trews.

Italian shoe brand Geox has designed a capsule collection, Together Taking a Step for Wildlife, in collaboration with WWF. The trainers feature panda, tiger, polar bear and gorilla prints and laces, and to fully demonstrate their eco credentials, the range is made from recycled cotton fibre.

Forget about buying pencils and pens for the new school year, all the coolest kids will be wearing the stationery-inspired hair accessories from Milledeux.

I love the satin, velvet, grosgrain or glitter pencil hair clips in particular, available in a variety of colours to match your uniform.

We’ll be helping Georgia brave her first day of school with Frugi’s colourful and fun personalised backpacks for little adventurers. It takes seven plastic bottles to make Frugi’s Little Adventurers backpack. There’s plenty of space for everything, too, from A4 books and pencil cases to stretchy side pockets for your trusty water bottle. And it’s just £5 to personalise, for that special touch.

The write stuff

BACKPACK £25, WELOVEFRUGI.COM

TRAINERS FROM £45, GEOX.COM

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

HAIR CLIP £8.50, MILLEDEUX.COM

Lots of children love writing stories, but wouldn’t it be cool if they were actually published? Say hello to Peachick Books, a unique service from Peahen Publishing that sees your little one’s creations come to life. Simply write and illustrate a story, think of a book title, and submit your piece online. It’s a keepsake to treasure. peahenpublishing.com

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S LE E P HAP PY

Here’s the exciting new sleepwear brand you’ve been dreaming about.

OceanBluu provides sustainable bedding and pyjamas made from fairtrade organic cotton that are safe for kids to wear and better for the environment. Featuring fun bird and dinosaur designs, little ones won’t want to wait for bedtime. From £26, oceanbluu.com

NEWS

Winter warmers

Sustainable brand Smalls is thinking ahead to the cold winter months with its line of pure Merino essentials. Keep warm and cosy from school to the slopes with super-soft knee socks made from cruelty-free wool in a range of stylish colours, and stand out in the alpine-white, long-sleeve tee, vest and cami, with proven benefits for eczemaprone skin. Available from September, smallsmerino.co.uk

Unilever launches eco-conscious laundry brand Homey, a letterbox subscription service sending boxes of washing capsules straight to your home, delivering the required amount based on your average use. wearehomey.com

Safety first O N E TO BACK

Textile designer Caroline Bithrey was fed up of the struggle she had to fit her children’s artwork into their backpacks. Her brand, Josephine & Joe, now produces roomy backpacks in pretty Liberty patterns, as well as bold, bright colours in the &Joe collection she created for her son. Large enough to hold A4 paper, extra clothes and shoes, and with reflective strips for safety, these bags are perfect for a jam-packed day at school. £29, josephineandjoe.com

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Life is all about little milestones, and for children, small acts of independence are key. Maxi-Cosi introduces the new Pro i-size seat, combining safety and style with a unique ClickAssist light feature that lets little passengers fasten themselves in, day or night, ready for any adventure. The seat provides full body protection and glass fibre shock absorbers for maximum protection. £199, maxi-cosi.co.uk

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

COMPETITION

Introducing the Back to School collection from

STELL A McCARTNEY

plus WIN A £500 VOUCHER

I

t’s hard to keep the enthusiasm alive when it comes to the return of books, classrooms and homework.

But for this year’s back-to-school period, Stella Kids is keeping the passion alive as the ethical clothing brand makes recycling fun for the new generation.

To celebrate the latest collection, one Little London reader could win a £500 voucher to spend on the fantastic ‘Back to School’ range.

From foil puffa jackets made from recycled polyester to school essentials like the ultra-cool eco-friendly logo backpack, the collection is sure to impress classmates. Better yet, for AW19, 74 per cent of the Stella Kids collection is made from earth-friendly materials such as organic cotton, sustainablysourced viscose and recycled materials.

As global waste is becoming increasingly

problematic for the environment and our own health, Stella McCartney wants to encourage kids to reuse and recycle; a message which is in line with the brand’s core values and its big sustainability focus for AW19.

To showcase this, the recycled polyester it is using is Repreve® fibre, which is made by recycling postconsumer waste such as plastic bottles. The plastic waste is broken down and processed to create new polyester fibre with no compromises in quality.

There is so much raw material already on the earth, why not use what we already have instead of making more? This means less waste and using less energy than making new fabrics, which makes our planet much happier and healthier. Nice work Stella! L stellamccartney.com

To enter, visit littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/competitions SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 7 NOVEMBER 2019 T&C’S: FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.

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RUNNING HEAD

Be a part of the wild and wacky experiments going on at The Garrick Theatre BRANIACLIVELONDON.COM

part in this out-of-this-world girls’ dress from Molo. Dazzling! worldspaceweek.org.

5

Got a mini Mozart on your hands? Dive into an array of classical music at the Southbank Centre’s Sinfonia Family Concert today from 11.30am.

Aimed at kids aged five to 11, this performance brings together live music, film and theatrical lighting – plus, you’ll meet the musicians after the show. From

DIARY

What to do and where to go in the capital over the next few months

£4, southbankcentre.co.uk

12 September

its way to South Park in Parsons Green this evening for a showing of Disney favourite The Little Mermaid, so bring a blanket and prepare to sing along. From

1

Calling all budding Marie Curies and wannabe Einsteins!

Make sure you catch the final performance of Brainiac Live at The Garrick Theatre today.

Ideal for over-fives, this actionpacked live show is filled with wacky experiments and daredevil stunts, from exploding dustbins to spinning chairs. From £16.50, brainiaclivelondon.com

£6.25, popupscreens.co.uk

October

MOLO DRESS £90, CHILDRENSALON.COM

3

National Poetry Day focuses on truth this year, and schoolchildren everywhere are being asked to create poems of the truths that matter to them most. Free online resources are available, too, including tips for writing a poem, activity sheets and customisable certificates.

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Now in its fifth year, today is your last chance to have your say in the Baby Awards, so don’t miss the chance to vote for your favourite parenting brands. Plus, you could win a family holiday to Turkey worth over £5,000, courtesy of travel specialists Mark Warner!

nationalpoetryday.co.uk

£21.50 (under-15s go free), gosh.org

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Today is your last chance to catch N°21’s kidswear pop-up shop in Harrods. Located on the fourth floor, the brand’s AW19 collection features cool pieces for kids aged four to 14, including hoodies, tracksuits and pleated skirts. numeroventuno.com Pop Up Screens

4

World Space Week, the largest annual space event in the world, kicks off today. There’s a host of kid-friendly events taking place at London’s Science Museum from 6 October, so ensure your little one looks the

awards.baby-magazine. co.uk/vote

N°21’s kidswear pop-up shop in Harrods

It’s the 10th anniversary of RBC Race for the Kids’ event, which sees families run, walk, jog or scoot 5k in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital. Held in Hyde Park, all children can participate for free. Upon completion, you’ll receive a goody bag and medal.

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It’s not too late to catch an alfresco flick in one of London’s many green spaces; Pop Up Screens will be making

BEST AFTER-SCHOOL CLASSES LITTLE HOUSE OF SCIENCE Great for children aged three to 12 years, these after-school workshops are the perfect way to introduce young learners to the world of maths and science. The sessions, which take place in different locations across London, see

children engage with a new scientific concept each week, with the chance to participate in hands-on experiments, interactive discussions and take-home projects. littlehouseofscience.com CLUB PETIT PIERROT Held in various venues

across the capital, this premier French club has been offering engaging programmes for the past

Club Petit Pierrot

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25 years. Ideal for children as young as eight months old, little ones learn the language via a range of activities, including arts, music and movement.

Run by French natives, sessions include parentand-toddler groups and drop-off classes. clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

SWIMMING ROCKS The teaching team at this swim school is known for its outstanding knowledge and experience. Providing lessons in Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Golders Green and Marylebone, courses are available for babies, children and adults. swimmingrocks.co.uk

The Original Wear of Happy Kids Since 1944, Nordic kids have been growing up outdoors in Reima wear. Our long experience of Finnish weather has made us the expert on letting kids enjoy free movement, all year round.

reima.com

Maggie & Rose, the ultimate family destination, is landing in your neighbourhood this september!

Expect a hip hangout at our Family Members’ Club and Nursery, right on your doorstep, with epic spaces for little ones and grown-ups to eat, play and learn together!

Get in touch and find out more about our awesome opening offers! islington@maggieandrose.com nurseryislington@maggieandrose.com www.maggieandrose.com/islington Maggie & Rose maggieandrose

little loves‌

Make learning to tell the time a fun experience as this cool watch lends a helping hand

The back-to-school countdown can roll around in style with help from the Swiss-based watch brand, Flik Flak. Its latest Going to School collection features six playful designs ranging from Balltime, for mini sports enthusiasts, to the whimsical Wow Yeah, for stationery lovers. With easy-to-read faces, three-bar water-resistance, high-spec Swiss quality, and machine washable, learning to tell the time has never been so slick.

From ÂŁ28, flikflak.com

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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MOON PICNIC WEATHER STATION £48 MAMAANDMAX.COM

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LACOSTE TRAINERS £42.40 VERY.CO.UK

Fall for ward CALVIN KLEIN DENIM SHORTS £64.95 HARRODS.COM

As autumn hits, keep kids cosy while maintaining their cool credentials in and out of the playground

MOHAIR-BLEND JUMPER £105 DESIGNERSREMIX.COM

SELETTI LAMP £89 MADEINDESIGN.CO.UK

RECYCLED ANORAK £109 OLIVELOVESALFIE.CO.UK

COTTON JOGGERS £24 WELOVEFRUGI.COM

WATERPROOF BOOTS FROM £50 BOBUX.CO.UK

ANIMAL PRINT DRESS £76 TOCOTOVINTAGE.COM

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SHOPPING

COTTON DUNGAREES £22 JOJOMAMANBEBE.CO.UK

FROM A SELECTION AT MAISONSARAHLAVOINE.COM

LIEWOOD VISOR £25 MONKEYMCCOY.COM

GRAPHIC HEDGEHOG JUMPER £91 STELLAMCCARTNEY.COM

PARKA JACKET £159.99, BONNETAPOMPON.COM

COTTON-BLEND JUMPER FROM £8 MARKSANDSPENCER.COM

DJECO ZIG & GO ACTION REACTION £21.50 TICKETY-BOO.CO.UK

ZADIG SNEAKERS £115 KIDSAROUND.COM

THE LITTLE GREEEN SHEEP TEEPEE £89.95 NATURALBABYSHOWER.CO.UK

COTTON-BLEND TOP £50 ELIASANDGRACE.COM

SNURK SUPERHERO FILLE BEDLINEN SET £49 MADEINDESIGN.COM

BLUE DRESS £66.80 PATACHOU.COM

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SHOPPING

BURBERRY BOMBER JACKET £420 FARFETCH.COM

WELLIES FROM £24 BODEN.CO.UK

COTTON DRESS £26.95 REIMA.COM

ERGO LOFT STORAGE BED £2,395 NUBIE.CO.UK

COTTON LEGGINGS FROM £18 THEBONNIEMOB.COM

HAIR CLIPS £6 ROCKAHULAKIDS.COM

KENZO KIDS SWEATSHIRT DRESS £106.93 MELIJOE.COM

PEA WALL PRINT £15 FROMPEA.COM

FROM A SELECTION TOOTSA.COM

COTTON RAINCOAT £49 COSSTORES.COM

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SHOPPING

MARIN WHITE HOUSE STORAGE BENCH £302 MAISONSDUMONDE.COM

ALL-IN-ONE £48 MUDDYPUDDLES.COM

ACNE STUDIOS T-SHIRT £63 SMALLABLE.COM

LITTLE IKARIA LEATHER SANDALS £120 NET-A-PORTER.COM

GUCCI SKIRT £435 CHILDRENSALON.COM

COTTON-BLEND SOCKS £4 ARKET.COM

ORGANIC BALLOON VEST SAFFRON £42.70 ASWEGROW.IS

COTTON-BLEND PYJAMAS £24 CYBERJAMMIES.CO.UK

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INTERVIEW Children can learn to fish at Northala Fields

Latitude Festival in Henham Park is very family-friendly

With her husband Charlie Brooker

Konnie says her 'creative and zany' character Cookie is an 'exaggerated version' of her younger self Kew Gardens is her favourite place to visit

Konnie meets Malala

Living in Ealing, it's easy for Konnie to get into Central London

The Blue Peter studio was Konnie’s workplace for 10 years

THE 13-STOREY TREEHOUSE £5.99, AMAZON.CO.UK

With Charlie and sons Covey and Huxley

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INTERVIEW

My Little London

KO N N I E H UQ THE TV PRESENTER OPENS UP ABOUT HER FAVOURITE SPOTS IN THE CAPITAL AND WHAT HER KIDS THINK OF HER FIRST-EVER CHILDREN’S BOOK Being a mum and working on Blue Peter has given Konnie an insight into what children like to read

there was always a big focus on school and learning in our family.

Where is home for you?

We live in Ealing, and I really love it there.

What’s great is that it feels like its own little town, but you can get everywhere else so quickly; getting into Central London is really easy, and we’re not too far from the countryside, either. There’s a really nice mix of shops as well, from big chains to little independent boutiques.

Northala Fields in Northolt is amazing for families. It’s an enormous park with four artificial hills, which were made using the rubble from the demolition of Wembley Stadium, and when you stand on the top of the biggest hill, you get this incredible view over London. There’s also fishing lakes, where you can take kids for fishing lessons, and a huge children’s adventure playground, which is great for picnics on sunny days. It’s introducing wildlife back to the area, too.

What are your favourite days out with your kids when you’re in London?

TIM P. WHITBY/GETTY IMAGES FOR UNIVERSAL PICTURES; ED MILLER

INTERVIEW: NATALIE KEELER. PHOTOGRAPHY: TWITTER.COM/KONNIE_HUQ; REX IMAGES/DAVID FISHER/BAFTA/SHUTTERSTOCK; ISTOCK;

Have you got any favourite ‘hidden gems’ in London?

Kew Gardens is one of the best places to go.

It’s just so vast, and you can always find new things there that you’ve never seen before.

They also have a Children’s Garden, and loads of lovely art exhibitions. I really recommend the Marianne North Gallery, which is filled with fantastic paintings.

And the best place to eat as a family?

If you’re in Central London, and particularly if your kids are into any kind of tech or gaming, there’s the Pan-Asian restaurant, Inamo, which has these brilliant interactive tables. You can order your food on them, play games while you wait for your food, LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

What do your children think about the book?

and you can even spy on the chef ’s in the kitchen via video cameras. It’s more of a ‘treat’ place rather than somewhere to go all the time, but it’s a fun novelty for the kids.

You’ve just released your first children’s book, Cookie! …and the Most Annoying Boy in the World.

What inspired you to write it?

When I left Blue Peter, I was approached by so many people about writing a children’s book, but the timing has never felt quite right until now. I think working on the Blue Peter Book Awards for all those years and having my own children has given me a really good insight into what kids like reading and what’s out there already. The response has been positive so far, though, and people have told me that Cookie is a very unique character!

She’s kind of like an exaggerated version of me from when I was growing up; she’s very creative and zany.

Cookie has a passion for learning new things. Were you like that as a child?

Definitely. My parents moved to the UK in the 1960s from Bangladesh, and the revered professions from growing up in that kind of culture were accountancy or engineering, whereas over here, people tend to aspire to be on the TV! A lot of children in Bangladesh grow up without a formal education, too, so 29

My seven year old, Covey, absolutely loves it.

Huxley, who’s five, does as well, though he’s a little young for it. He’s had bits of the book read to him and he understands the humour, which I suppose is a good thing!

What other books do you enjoy reading to your children?

Covey is into The 13-Storey Treehouse, which is a series of funny, illustrated stories about these two boys who live in a treehouse, and all sorts of wacky things happen there. Huxley and I have just been reading The Twits by Roald Dahl, and we’re going to try the Elephant and Piggie series next. It’s so simple but hilarious, and Huxley can read some of it by himself.

Any plans for the summer holidays?

We had tickets to go to Latitude Festival in Henham Park, Suffolk, in July, and that’s really family-friendly. There’s so much for kids to do there.

What else have you got in the pipeline for the rest of this year?

I’m starting a new podcast for BBC Sounds, which is all about social media, so that’ll be interesting. It’s not targeted at a particular age group, but we’ll have different guests on each week looking at social media habits, usage and addiction. For now, though, I’m focusing on getting Cookie out into the world! L Konnie’s book, Cookie! …and the Most Annoying Boy in the World (£10.99, Bonnier Books UK), is out now

BOOKS

2-4 YEARS

5-7 YEARS

8-10 YEARS

Show and Tell

The Funny Life of Teachers

Everest

BY ROB BIDDULPH

BY JAMES CAMPBELL AND ROB JONES

BY SANGMA FRANCIS AND LISK FENG

Class 2 are excited for show and tell, and with their eyes on the prize, their presentations become increasingly outrageous. A hilarious rhyming read.

You can read it forwards, backwards, and in 861,000 different ways in between. A uniquely silly read to take away the stress of going back to school.

Explore the flora, fauna and rich cultural heritage of this majestic mountain.

A visually arresting read that will whet the appetite of budding explorers.

£12.99 • HarperCollins

£6.99 • Bloomsbury

£12.99 • Flying Eye Books

The Pigeon HAS to Go to School!

A Planet Full of Plastic

BY NEAL LAYTON

Supersize Cross Sections: Inside Engines

BY MO WILLEMS

Our favourite paranoid pigeon is back in this squawk-out-loud picture book about his first day at school.

Be inspired to save the planet with this informative accessible guide to plastic reuse, recycling and conservation.

A timely essential read for everyone.

A fascinating read for those interested in the mechanics and engineering behind 15 super-sized vehicles.

£6.99 • Walker Books

£12.99 • Wren & Rook

£14.99 • Wide Eyed Editions

BY PASCALE HEDELIN AND LOU RHIN

Hello, Friend!

Brain-Fizzing Facts

Hicotea

BY REBECCA COBB

BY EMILY GROSSMAN AND ALICE BOWSHER

BY LORENA ALVAREZ

An exquisite observation of a blossoming pre-school friendship, beautifully illustrated, perfect for sharing in the first weeks of a new school.

Each question tackled in this book leads to another. Discover how your elbow is connected to a pineapple, a pineapple to the Internet… and so on!

A school field trip takes a magical turn towards the unexpected in this spinetinglingly graphic novel. Pure escapism for believers in the unbelievable.

£11.99 • Macmillan

£6.99 • Bloomsbury

£14.99 • Nobrow

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INTERACTIVE

Ada Twist’s Big Project Book For Stellar Scientists

BY ANDREA BEATY AND DAVID ROBERTS

Packed with educational and fun activities for curious minds, to get them learning after the long summer holidays. £10.99 • Abrams

How to be an Astronaut

BY DR SHELIA KANANI AND SOL LINERO

From engineering to searching for aliens, hone your skills with a pop-out-and-make space rocket and get creative with some snazzy stickers.

ILLUSTRATION: ROB BIDDULPH

£7.99 • Nosy Crow

Maths Scribble Book

BY ALICE JAMES AND PETRA BAHN

This fun book encourages young mathematicians to design a currency, crack codes and solve tricky puzzles. £9.99 • Usborne

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Little Learners

EMMA O’DONOVAN’S TOP READS ENSURE KIDS GO BACK TO SCHOOL WITH A BANG!

GET THE LOOK

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Father-of-four JONATHAN talks family life, growing an online community, and being ‘Celebrity Dad of the Year’

W

ith one million followers on Instagram, not to mention nearly two million subscribers on YouTube, father-of-four Jonathan Saccone Joly started documenting his family life online almost 10 years ago. His passion, he says, is capturing the realities of parenting.

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Why did you start documenting your life online?

What do you enjoy most about the platform?

When I graduated university in 2009, I figured it would be a great way to get my creative work out there and, hopefully, help me land a job. I had no idea that YouTube would one day become the job! It’s captured my entire 30s, everything from my wedding proposal, to the births of my four children, as well as a miscarriage.

Who do you like to follow on Instagram?

I’m a big fan of cars, so most of the accounts I follow are car-related, like @Ferrari and

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@jeremyclarkson1. I also love home DIY, so I enjoy following a few of those accounts, too.

And my wife, @annasaccone.

I don’t make it to many of her photos, but I do take them all.

Instagram is a different experience to YouTube. I go through stages of loving one more than the other, but it all stems from the interactions I have with people. I started out on YouTube, so I feel more connected to people who supported me all these years on that platform and I want to stay loyal to them; at the same time, Instagram can’t be ignored.

What was it like being awarded ‘Celebrity Dad of the Year’?

Being a dad is my greatest accomplishment, so getting recognised for that was a wonderful surprise. I didn’t even know I was nominated until my wife told me! L

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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INTERVIEW

Naomi admits that she sometimes needs her boys, Sahsa and Sammy, just as much as they need her

Watts’

WORLD ENGLISH ACTRESS AND MOTHER OF TWO, NAOMI WATTS OPENS UP TO RICHARD ALDHOUS ABOUT HER CHILDHOOD AND HOW SHE’S RAISING HER BOYS

W

hen Naomi Watts was in her early teens, she was just like any other young dreamer growing up in the Eighties. Attending Thomas Mills High School in Framlingham (later the education boilerplate for Ed Sheeran), she was pretty and blonde, had plans of one day becoming an actress after watching the film Fame, and lived with her mother, stepfather and elder brother, Ben. But unlike many of her peers, the precocious teenager had already done more travelling than most do in their lifetime, experiencing tremendous loss and heartache along the way.

Born in Shoreham, Kent, to Myfanwy, a welsh costume designer, and Peter, an English sound engineer and road manager for Pink Floyd, Watts readily admits to encountering profound sadness during her childhood. “Certainly, there was no lack of love, but there was a shadow that I felt followed me around,” she begins.

Her parents divorced when she was just four, followed by the death of her father three years later from a suspected drug overdose, and a subsequent relocation to Wales, and then Suffolk, when her mother remarried. Though often referred to as a thoroughbred Aussie, it was only at age 14 that Watts migrated to Sydney, where she 41

would find a lifelong best buddy in Nicole Kidman, and from there, began to fulfil her acting ambitions.

While career and geography ultimately took care of themselves, Watts, now 50, has often wrestled with the difficulties of her upbringing, and admits that the process of becoming a mother herself – to Sasha, 11, and Sammy, 10, with ex-partner Liev Schreiber – offered considerable scope for her to reflect on her own childhood. “I found that, as someone growing into adulthood, I was focused enough on the future to not have to dwell too much on how tough it had to be for my mother,” she says, “and that was fine. But becoming a mother yourself allows you the right, the access and, to a smaller extent, the time to reflect on how it was for others.

“That’s not to say they weren’t happy days - I grew up in the country and we would be out for hours with our friends.

My mum wouldn’t know exactly where we were all the time and that was okay. My kids are growing up in a fierce urban environment, New York, so it’s a completely different world and set of rules.

“The conclusion I’ve come to is I’m living a much easier time as a parent than my mum – she was younger than me when raising a family, and I had a long period to prepare. I was already settled in my career and that was certainly another stress removed,” she says.

Watts also benefitted from the fact her parents weren’t constantly in the entertainment spotlight, and that’s something

RUNNING HEAD

her sons are adjusting to. “They’re realising that photographers taking pictures of us in the street is something that happens, although isn’t normal,” she muses, before concluding that the benefits probably outweigh the negatives, as she anticipates the day the pair will be old enough to watch all her films.

“I want my kids to be proud of the work I’ve done, and I look forward to the time where they can see what their mother has been doing when she’s away from home! But I can tell you that my youngest boy is a huge fan of King Kong!”, as is any filmgoer, after watching Watts be helplessly scooped up by the ape’s epic hairy hand in the 2005 reimagining.

“My sons are quite independent,” Watts continues. “I remember Sasha, when he started school, he was four years old and he was adamant he wanted to walk to school alone. I admired the tenacity - that’s a brave step for a boy that age, but I wasn’t brave enough… that wasn’t happening,” she laughs.

Best known for her Oscar-nominated performances in The Impossible and 21 Grams, Watts has garnered a reputation for being a diverse and captivating performer in a career that has spanned every genre, from horror (The Ring) through to offbeat indie flicks like Birdman and Noah Baumbach’s While We’re Young. It all adds up to a body of work that, while self-satisfying, she

I want more laughs in my career. I want to go on set and laugh all day, just like when I am around my boys admits is lacking one particular quality.

“I want more laughs in my career,” she admits.

“I want to go on set and laugh all day, just like when I am around my boys it sometimes feels like an endless trail of humour.

I’ve endured plenty of darkness and sadness, so now I’m after a quirky reality, something offbeat.”

This year’s selection of movies again offer cross-genre pollination, although there is still no sign of that cherished comedy turn. No fewer than four movies (The Wolf Hour, Luce, Boss Level and Once Upon a Time in Staten Island) alongside The Loudest Voice on the Showtime network.

Having come so far from her languid

Sasha and Sammy with their dad, Liev

42

days in Suffolk, where a vocation as a Hollywood icon must have seemed as likely as walking on the moon, there is little doubt Watts must be bathing in a sense of accomplishment. “I’ve come a long way, but, as I say to my kids, never forget your roots.

I’m proud of them, and I believe everything happens for a reason. My attention now is in making my boys the most complete people they can be,” she says, and yet, in addition, Watts appears happy to be a sounding board for the trials of being a parent.

“Parenting is hard. Every decision you make, you question. There’s no right way, no wrong way, it’s all a guessing game. You have to accept there will be mistakes along the way, too. For me, it’s always trying to stay in the present rather than visualising what’s coming next. I also need to be more alert to the fact sometimes parents need their children just as much as their children need them. That’s a special thing we mustn’t try to hide.” L LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PHOTOGRAPHY: REX IMAGES/CAMILLA MORANDI/SHUTTERSTOCK; INSTAGRAM.COM/NAOMIWATTS; UNIVERSAL; REX IMAGES/KATIE JONES/VARIETY/SHUTTERSTOCK

Naomi was scooped up by an ape in the 2005 remake of ing ong a er youngest son a y o es

ADVERTORIAL

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A Birthday to Remember

Throw a party they won’t forget in one of the capital’s most memorable attractions, KidZania London

B

irthdays come and go, but even as adults, we have those celebrations that stand out in our childhood.

Did you know that you can celebrate your child’s special occasion at KidZania London? Explore the indoor city and take part in some of the coolest jobs in town for four to 14 year olds. Kids can discover the latest activities, such as the Children’s Intelligence Agency, which launched in July 2019, where mini agents will apply smart coding skills as a top secret spy.

Or learn to simulate a plane as a pilot, deliver parcels as a courier and write an article for a leading newspaper as a journalist.

Find a birthday package to suit you; either create your own or go for the all-singing-alldancing Gold package. All packages include a selection of tasty hot food, plus food bags given to every child (including sandwiches, crisps, fruit, cupcakes and a drink). You can also purchase adult hot food and sharer platters, plus jugs of squash or hot drinks.

CREATE YOUR OWN This is the most popular package, and is ideal for families who are looking for flexibility LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Fly high as kids can play pilot for the day

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with their celebrations. Prices start from £475 for a four-hour experience and includes the following: • Two FREE adult tickets • Fast-track entry into KidZania • 100 kidZo’s and a birthday badge • Cupcakes • Party decorations With this package, you have the option to add on a variety of fun extras, such as a delicious Oreo birthday cake, or hire extra time in The Dance Club, or Stadium with Middlesex Cricket. You may choose to also include a town crier to announce the big birthday in the city and arrange a surprise visit from one of the RightZKeepers!

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For a limited time only, receive 20 per cent off and free activity room hire worth £125 for birthday parties taking place between 9 August and 31 October 2019.

Quote LLBDAY20 when contacting KidZania London’s birthday team at birthdays@kidzania.co.uk. Offer not available on parties taking place outside of these dates, terms and conditions apply.

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GOLD PACKAGE For the ultimate VIP experience, the Gold package builds on the create your own, with added extras! Prices start from £1,275 for four hours and includes the following: • Birthday cake • A RightZKeeper’s visit, worth £100 • Photo package, worth £170 • Party bags to take away • Town square hire, worth £300 • Town crier and group photo • KidZania gift and 200 kidZo’s for the birthday child

PARTIES

Paws for thought! Here's how to decorate your baked sugar cookies

1

2

Lion Paw Print Cookies

By Disney

PREP 20 minutes • COOK 10 minutes

There’s so much fun to be had baking and decorating food with children, and it really ramps up the excitement for the impending party. Baked sugar cookies are easy to make (flour, bicarbonate soda, butter, sugar, egg and vanilla extract) or you can buy a ready-made mix, but by adding delicious caramel paw prints to the top they’ll really help to set the scene.

YOU WILL NEED: • Batch of baked sugar cookies • Cookie sheet • Waxed paper • Powdered sugar • Caramel candy cubes • Rolling pin • Small heart-shaped cookie or fondant cutter, about 1 1/4-inch wide • Small oval cookie or fondant cutter, about 3/4-inch wide Wire cooling rack DIRECTIONS If you’ve just finished baking your batch of sugar cookies, leave the oven on. If not, heat the oven to 350 degrees. In either case, arrange the baked cookies on a baking sheet.

Cover a countertop or cutting board with waxed paper. Sprinkle a little powdered sugar on the paper, and then place a caramel candy on it.

Use the rolling pin to flatten the caramel into a thin (about 1/8-inch thick) circle.

If the candy is too hard to roll out, you can soften it a bit before you unwrap it simply by holding it between your fingertips for a minute or so. If it’s too sticky, dust the caramel and the rolling pin with powdered sugar before rolling.

Cut out a small heart and four small ovals from the rolled caramel, and arrange them atop a cookie to resemble the pads of a lion’s paw print.

Do the same for each cookie.

When all of the cookies on the sheet are topped with prints, heat them in the oven for 2 minutes to stick the caramel prints in place.

Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool.

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7 Look the par t…

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LION KING CAKE £147 THECAKESTORE.CO.UK

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FOIL BALLOON (PACK OF THREE) £9.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

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PARTIES

PA R T Y T I M E W I T H

Safari croquet game

Croquet is a lovely garden game, and is good for all ages. Get everyone into teams and hit the ball through the arches. £24, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Carole Middleton PIÑATA £12.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

LION KING

TOY KINGDOM

As we walk through the circle of life, birthday parties come and go – here’s one they’ll remember KEEP IT CLASSIC Steiff has released two limitededition Simba and Nala figures based on the original 1994 design. £179, steiff.com

LITTLE LIONESS The bold design of the Disney Store’s soft Nala toy features an all-over print and embroidered details. £25, shopdisney.co.uk

DRINKS CUP £6 SAINSBURYS.CO.UK

LITTLE (AND NOT SO LITTLE) ONES ARE GOING WILD FOR THE NEWLY released Lion King and what better excuse to bring the African savanna to your homes with a roarsome Lion King-inspired birthday party.

I love the colours that this theme brings, and as we make our way into autumn, oranges, reds and greens are the perfect party palette. Leave no stone unturned when it comes to decorating. Like the film, you want to aim for a balance of rocks and jungle.

Think grass table runners and brown grass skirts. You could rope in the little ones to help make big tropical plant leaves, too. Get a big brown tablecloth to drape over a table, adding boxes below to give a mountainous look – labelling it Pride Rock. This is where you can display your food.

When it comes to feasting, I’d recommend sticking with the jungle theme and serving

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up ‘bug-like’ finger food – it’s surprising what you can achieve by cutting up some fruit and veg! Fake leaves also double up as great plates, while carrot sticks make for a brilliant lion’s mane. Pick ’n’ mix sweets also make a great post-lunch treat!

Remember to keep young cubs hydrated throughout the day by having plenty of water on tap – fill a Kilner water dispenser, and make a ‘watering hole’ sign.

A balloon station is also a fun addition.

Use white, orange and yellow coloured balloons and, using a black colouring pen, let little artists add lines for zebras and tigers, and spots for leopards! Guests can take these home or add to the décor. Don’t forget to add some animal-shaped balloons into the mix, too. And if all the partying gets too much, it may call for a game of sleeping lions.

Hakuna matata! L

IN THE JUNGLE TEEPEE £79.95 REXLONDON.COM

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EDUCATION Did you know? 60% of children say that being read to is their favourite way to spend time, according to research by Bookabees. However, a third of parents in the UK (over two million) spend less than 15 minutes per day reading to their offspring.

T H G I R B YO U N G T HIN GS An essential guide to your child’s education

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EDUCATION REVISION WOES

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP Researching schools

If you want to know more about schooling and want to plan for the future, check out our sister title, The Guide to Independent Schools.

Published twice a year, this is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector.

The guide covers each stage of the school career, from nursery to sixth form, and includes a comprehensive directory of independent schools across the United Kingdom as well as expert advice to help you make the right educational decisions for your child’s future.

ORDER THE LATEST ISSUE NOW! Visit chelseamagazines. com/independentschool-parent or call 020 7349 3700. The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for just £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

Lesson-planning site Planbee revealed that in a survey of 334 teachers, 95 per cent felt that SATS tests for years two and six were negatively impacting children’s mental health. Children were stressed, anxious and frequently sick, and it was debated whether, at aged six, kids should be made aware that they are revising for an important test. planbee.com

education

NEWS

Everything you need to know about what’s going on in and out of the classroom

CLEAN EATING

Not just popular with 20-somethings, a recent study revealed 10 per cent of children aged eight to 13 are also vegan or vegetarian. Linda McCartney Foods is working with vegan chef duo BOSH! to help schools to create delicious lunches for all.

Hape's out-of-this world puzzle will teach your little one about the solar system

lindamccartneyfoods.co.uk

PUZZLING ON THINKING AHEAD OKIDO and OjO’s new board game aims to develop coding, computational thinking and problem-solving skills. It’s fun and also hopes to raise money to encourage further STEAM learning (science, technology, engineering, the arts, maths). £30, okido.com

Hape puzzles are here to help your little ones enjoy after-school learning. Aimed for children aged three to six, the jobs roundabout will develop critical thinking skills, hand/eye coordination and dexterity.

From £9.60, hape.com

The London Assembly Health Committee’s report on kids’ dental health recommends that all schools are sugar-free by 2022, and suggests no sugary drinks in packed lunches. london.gov.uk

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IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Prince’s Gardens PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Prepared for everything

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BACK TO SCHOOL IN THE AUTUMN TERM IS ALWAYS A BUSY AND EXCITING TIME. THE EAGER FACES, SHINY NEW SHOES (SLIGHTLY uncomfortable on little feet after a summer in sandals), smart haircuts and brand new pencils always bring a smile to my face. The start of a new academic year signals a fresh start, new friendships and a whole host of adventurous learning opportunities ahead.

As parents, we are fortunate to have many excellent schools in London to choose from, but what makes one stand out from the rest? Academic excellence is a priority with competitive 11+ entry requirements, but a school can provide so much more with a broad curriculum and a wide range of enrichment activities.

London itself is a fantastic classroom, with access to world-renowned museums and open spaces. Prince’s Gardens Prep’s location in the academic hub of London provides on the doorstep access to all these resources, no buses required and just a five-minute walk even for little legs.

We cannot predict what the future holds for our young learners but we know that they will need excellent communication skills, to be flexible problem solvers, to be tenacious and ambitious, to be able to work independently and collaboratively and to have a responsibility to the community and the world around them.

The relationship between home and school is so important, you are trusting us as teachers to look after your little learners and nurture them so that they flourish and grow. As a prospective parent, visit the schools you are interested in to gain a real feeling as to whether a school is right for your family. Having pupils as tour guides is brilliant, you can ask them all the questions that might not be covered within a welcome talk, such as what are the lunches really like and how much homework is there?

I hope this magazine not only gives you a flavour of our vision and exciting plans for Prince’s Gardens Prep but also some guidance on how to approach the busy autumn term and going back to school. We will work together to be ‘Prepared for Everything’.

ALISON MELROSE, HEADMISTRESS

PRINCE’S GARDENS PREPARATORY SCHOOL

CONTACT DETAILS Admissions Team: 020 7591 4620, admissions@princesgardensprep.co.uk, princesgardensprep.co.uk Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School is part of the Cognita Schools Group

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A world-class EDUCATION

ITS UNIQUE LOCATION IN CENTRAL LONDON MEANS THAT PUPILS AT PRINCE’S GARDENS PREP SCHOOL WILL HAVE AN OUTWARD-LOOKING GLOBAL MINDSET, WRITES CLAUDIA DUDMAN The school premises in Prince’s Gardens, Kensington, occupy four Grade II listed townhouses

The Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens is just a few minutes’ walk from Prince’s Gardens

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tanding proudly in Prince’s Gardens in the heart of Kensington, SW7, are four white stucco townhouses that will open as central London’s newest school Prince’s Gardens Prep in September 2020. These impressive Victorian Grade II listed buildings stretch over five floors and will, after extensive renovation, make up the school premises situated just off the academic hub of Imperial College.

Walk five minutes from the school’s front door – Headmistress Alison Melrose has even timed it – and you’ll find yourself in Exhibition Road, which takes its name from

The Serpentine Gallery

The Great Exhibition of 1851. Held in Hyde Park, it was the first of its kind to display the magnificence of British manufacturing post industrial revolution. Today, this half-mile stretch of “shared space” – which means that pupils can walk along it blissfully free of traffic, bar the odd Black Cab or two – is home to some of London’s most striking and world-renowned galleries, museums and academic institutions. From the Victoria & Albert to the Science Museum, the Natural History Museum, Royal Albert Hall and Imperial College, these are first-class resources that less centrally located schools simply cannot access, and which provide stimuli for inspiring independent, creative and collaborative learning projects that bring together science, technology, engineering, the arts and maths.

Prince’s Gardens Prep, a co-educational preparatory school for pupils aged three-11, will benefit from all that London has to offer on its doorstep, giving its pupils an outwardlooking global perspective: an outlook that is crucial in a world that has so many challenges.

Many of the careers that we know today will disappear thanks to artificial intelligence and

The school’s garden provides ample green space where pupils can play at breaktime

a fast moving, changing jobs market, and many will be created in industries that don’t yet exist. It’s this sense of impermanence, and of uncertainty, which means that today’s children must be prepared for the world of tomorrow. “We want our pupils to develop the skills they need to thrive in every situation,” says Headmistress Alison Melrose.

“A great education prepares children for the world. It gives them the options and choices, not just for immediate next steps, but for life.

Quite simply, our pupils will be prepared for everything,” she adds.

So how will this all work? Samantha Gibbon, Deputy Head, says that highly focused weekly visits to the nearby attractions on Exhibition Road will allow pupils from nursery to Year 6 to relate their classroom learning to the world around them. She says, Pre-prep pupils will spend two hours a week using the gardens of Hyde Park as their outdoor classroom

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65% of children entering primary school today will ultimately end up working in completely new job types that don’t yet exist*

LOCATION PHOTOGRAPHY: ADAM PARKER. *THE FUTURE OF JOBS REPORT 2016 PUBLISHED BY THE WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM

The Royal College of Music

“For example, a Year 6 visit to study the Supermarine Seaplane S.6B at the Science Museum looks at the racing seaplane that in 1931 became the fastest vehicle on the planet. Its ability to take off and land on water presents a fascinating concept for pupils to explore key concepts.” Back in the classroom, pupils learn about gravity and air resistance.

Huge windows that maximise the natural light, high ceilings, original cornicing and ceiling roses, complete with grand sweeping staircases. In short, beautiful surroundings in which pupils begin their educational journey.

These may well seem like an echo of the past but they belie the modern and unique learning spaces that have been specifically designed for pupils of the 21st century.

There are state-of-the-art science labs, creatively devised music and art studios where teachers will deliver inspiring lessons. There’s a Maker Space, a cutting-edge learning LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

zone where pupils can develop creative projects using both the latest and traditional technologies; the Innovation Lab is the ICT suite of the future. Here pupils will be able to use the latest augmented reality technology so that children can go anywhere in the world, and the Library will be a quiet yet exciting place for pupils to develop a lifelong love of literature across many types of media.

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And just because the school sits right in the middle of this hive of creative and academic activity doesn’t mean it compromises on sport and green spaces. On the timetable are lessons in football, rugby, cricket and netball to be held in Hyde Park, and where match fixtures against Eaton House and Gems Hampshire will take place. Next door to the school, pupils can take advantage of Ethos, Imperial College’s sports facilities which house a pristeen 25-metre swimming pool and several sports halls. And of course, there is the garden where pupils can play or enjoy a lesson sitting among mature trees and rose bushes – and all under the gaze of the majestic Royal Albert Hall in the near distance. L The next open event is on Monday 23 September at 10am at the premises of the Royal Geographical Society. Reserve your place at princesgardensprep.co.uk

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A H E A D S TA R T

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A solid pre-prep foundation with small class sizes, specialist teaching and dazzling facilities instils a love of learning that lasts a lifetime, says CHARLOTTE PHILLIPS

f you could wave a magic wand and create the perfect pre-prep for little ones in the heart of London, how would it look?

The school would be designed to make those first steps on the learning journey packed full of wonder, excitement, challenge and variety. Inside, there’d be purpose-built spaces, some cosy, some high tech.

Outside, children would have the space to explore, learn, relax – or just let off steam.

And the staff, of course, would have the expert knowledge, enthusiasm and – just as important – understanding of what makes younger pupils tick, knowing when to challenge them to go that little bit further and when to hold back.

Prince’s Gardens is set to provide all that and an awful lot more to its pre-prep pupils.

It’s down to a team of highly trained, caring

teachers and wonderful facilities.

The pre-prep area – which will have its own entrance but be interconnected to the rest of the school – will be home to children in nursery through to Year 2.

Talk to Headmistress Alison Melrose and what comes across is a palpable air of energy.

Of course the school is ambitious for its pupils – academic excellence is taken as read, the goal of achieving success at 11+ never forgotten (even though it can seem a long way away at this end of the school). But pre-prep education is about so much more than that.

“This is all about giving our pre-prep children skills for the future. It’s about thinking much more broadly, about the skill sets they need, about emotional intelligence, working as a group, creativity and adaptability and having a growth mindset. All those skills 6

are more important than ever,” she says.

The motto at Prince’s Gardens focuses on being prepared for everything. It sounds like a big ask. The key is ensuring that even the youngest children start acquiring the tools that will help them deal with failure, rise to challenges and embrace new ways of working. “The first four years in the pre-prep are a crucial time,” says Katie Paynter, Head of Pre-Prep. “Lifelong attitudes and values are established with a focus on the equal importance of the social, emotional and academic intelligence.”

Facilities will range from a hall, just for the younger pupils, to generously proportioned classrooms where the two nursery and three reception classes can access their own, purpose-built terrace – a perfect outdoor learning space. Beyond that is the school’s LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Pre-prep pupils take learning outside 'on a bear hunt' – just like in the much-loved children's book, We're Going on a Bear Hunt

FIRST STEPS Five top tips to get your child

*FOR RECEPTION CHILDREN

ready for school life* two-acre garden – a paradise that is enclosed, hidden and completely unexpected.

Of course, there are the green spaces of Hyde Park, just a few minutes away, where nursery and reception classes will spend two hours each week. Children in early years will do everything from launching model boats to explore floating and sinking, gather sticks and leaves, make sequences out of pine cones and learn how to work collaboratively – or develop independent learning skills.

With the abundance of museums on the school’s doorstep, London won’t just be these young pupils’ playground but their classroom, too. Making a universe of knowledge available, you can bring topics to life in a way that can’t help but be inspirational.

The school terms it Inspiring Introductions, – a description that could serve as a neat description of what the pre-prep is all about.

There’s nothing like being able to pack in a trip to a museum into the school day with ease to trigger a huge outpouring of creativity.

“There’s no other school in the country that will be able to take advantage of the museums in the way we can,” says Alison Melrose.

Take that best-loved of children’s favourite stories, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. Why leave it at reading the book when you can go on LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

your very own bear hunt – with real bears – courtesy of the Natural History Museum?

The children come to school dressed up as – what else? – explorers, complete with binoculars. After they’ve read the story, they head off to the museum where they “count how many bears have black and brown fur, think about where they live, what food they might eat. They order them by height and maybe do a tally chart,” says Katie Paynter.

The goal is to create learners with a natural curiosity for the world around them and it will all take place within a fast-paced curriculum, with specialists teaching even the youngest children. It benefits even three and four year olds, explains Katie Paynter, because “you get teachers who are so passionate about their subjects and that passion really ignites children’s interest and engagement”.

While nobody can predict how the world will look when this first class of nursery pupils are ready to join the workplace, the education the school delivers should ensure that they are – as its motto states – prepared for everything.

“We’re equipping them with skills,” adds Alison, “so that if something unexpected comes along, they’re not going to be knocked sideways. They’re going to be all right, cope and be successful.”

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Help them to recognise and write their own name by putting letters on the fridge door and encouraging them to find theirs.

Teach them to use a knife and fork.

Invest in a set of ergo grip cutlery.

It’s tactile and comes in all sorts fun designs and colours.

Expose children to a wide range of food – including vegetables. It doesn’t have to be hard work. Books like Oliver’s Fruit Salad and Oliver’s Vegetables show how much fun trying new ingredients can be.

Help children get used to changing from their school uniform to their sports kit and back again by getting them to stand in a big hula hoop and seeing if they can keep all their belongings inside it as they change. Make it a game by using a stopwatch to time them.

Get them used to fastening their own shoes and trainers but don’t be tempted by laces. Velcro is the answer. It’s quicker, easier and gives children confidence.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PRINCE’S GARDENS PREP

Top of the Class

SAMANTHA GIBBON, DEPUTY HEAD OF PRINCE’S GARDENS PREP, SAYS THAT WHILE ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IS A PRIORITY, A BROAD CURRICULUM IS ALSO KEY

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rince’s Gardens Prep aims to give each pupil an education that enables them to realise their potential and grow as individuals. Through a determined focus on academic excellence and character development, we prepare our children for all the exciting challenges and opportunities that life has to offer.

As a school which prepares children for the 11+ exams, we believe that a prepschool environment gives parents the time with which to really consider their child’s secondary education and to choose the senior school to which their child is most suited. We help guide parents and pupils through the 11+ process to ensure that every child goes on to a school in which they will continue to thrive.

We aim to nurture a strong sense of community and family, an environment where children feel that they belong. One of the ways we will do this is through a dynamic house system: our houses, named after British

The Natural History Museum is on the school’s doorstep

Pupils will be encouraged to take up music and drama, both of which enhance confidence and self-esteem

Lessons in reasoning from Year 4 and debating in Year 3 build on skills which are valuable in life as well as in interviews explorers include all children from reception through to Year 6 and will foster friendly, inter-house events such as sports tournaments and art competitions, house singing, poetry recitation and sports day, along with house fundraisers. These will occur every half term and the children are given the independence to consider and choose which charities they would like to support.

Woven into the very fabric of our school is the importance of giving back to the local community. We have built many links with charities through the Kensington & Chelsea Foundation and our children will choose ways in how to raise money for charities as well

as planning and implementing those ideas.

Older pupils have the opportunity to go and visit some of those charities such as Age UK. For example, at Christmas, they might sing carols to residents in a care home or deliver homemade hampers to those in need and less fortunate than themselves. We will also have a wide range of speakers, for example, from the Guide Dogs for the Blind and Partially Sighted, come into school, and who we feel, will help to widen the pupils’ horizons.

The curriculum is broad and balanced with excellent and inspiring teachers. Whether your child is a budding Leonardo da Vinci or Ariana Grande, Albert Einstein or Marie 8

TRIPS OF A LIFETIME One of the highlights of the year will be in the summer term when we will take many of our children on residential trips. They range from one night in Year 2 to four nights in Year 6 and are greatly looked forward to by the children. They will have the opportunity to take part in a range of activities ranging from abseiling to orienteering, fire building to canoeing and archery to cooking. These trips help to develop the children’s independence, confidence and resilience. They are a wonderful opportunity for children to stay away from home, often for the first time, in a safe and nurturing environment surrounded by their friends and teachers.

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Pupils can enjoy hours of fun learning and playing outside

LOCATION PHOTOGRAPHY: ADAM PARKER. ISTOCK

Learning in the great outdoors teaches just as much as in the classroom

Curie, we pride ourselves in being able to spot and nurture their talents. We have specialist teaching in music, PE and French from nursery as well as in drama and science further up the school. In our top two years, the children are encouraged to develop their organisational skills by moving round the school and going to specialist classrooms in science, English and maths. This is just one of the many ways in which we prepare them for senior school life.

Children will be rigorously prepared for the LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

11+ entrance exams to top senior day and boarding schools in London and beyond.

This will be done in a carefully planned and measured way to ensure that the children are also able to enjoy all that their school life has to offer. We will gradually introduce lessons such as current affairs where topical issues, such as the plastic in our oceans, are discussed, enabling children to learn to articulate their thoughts and ideas, and to form opinions and views which are so important in the interview process.

Also timetabled are lessons in reasoning from Year 4 and debating in Year 3 to build on the important communication skills which are as valuable in life as they are for their interviews. By the time children arrive in Year 6, they will be having weekly lessons in exam and interview technique and weekly practice in exams which are focused to their needs.

Weekly scholarship lessons also take place.

Once the children have finished their 11+ examinations in the February of their final 9

year, there is an exciting programme of events and activities in store. The objective for us is for them to remember these final two terms as the happiest days of their school lives.

The Year 6 play will be a particular highlight as well as The Fiver Challenge where all of the children are given ÂŁ5 each and asked to design, make, market and sell a product in order to try to generate a profit.

Our dynamic and varied programme of enrichment and extracurricular activities will enable each pupil to develop the skills needed for them to step out confidently in every situation that they face.

We believe that children should be given opportunities to shine in music, art, drama and sports through their scheduled lesson activities as well as school productions, concerts, music ensembles and competitions.

All these challenges encourage their self-esteem and resilience, skills which will help them navigate the world around them and in life to come. L

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Prep schools make mental health and wellbeing a priority and are central to t eir astora are offering

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H A P P Y D AY S

Forget the old days of stiff upper lips and austere attitudes – prep schools are now havens of wellbeing, writes K ATIE HUGHES

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t is widely recognised that a child’s emotional health and wellbeing influences their cognitive development and learning,” says Public Health England.

It also affects “their physical and social health and their mental wellbeing in adulthood”.

Add to this the fact that over 50% of mental illnesses start before the age of 14 and that one in 10 children and young people currently has a mental health disorder*, and it’s no surprise that pupil wellbeing is under the national spotlight.

PHOTOGRAPHY:ISTOCK. *DATA FROM THE ANNA FREUD NATIONAL CENTRE FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES. **SOURCE: MENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATION

WHAT IS WELLBEING? The Oxford English Dictionary describes wellbeing as “the state of being comfortable, healthy or happy”. The Mental Health Foundation defines it as “a much broader concept than moment-to-moment happiness”.

And the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families defines it as “not simply the absence of mental illness, but a broader indicator of social, emotional and physical wellness”.

Definitions of wellbeing may differ, but there’s little doubt about the part being played by schools in fostering it. The mental health charity Young Minds explains: “A good education promotes health and happiness, not just good grades.” It says, “Schools play a crucial role in developing the skills young people need to cope and flourish in today’s uncertain world.” This is all the more important, says Young Minds, now that “children and young people are facing more pressures than ever before, including exam pressure, social media and cyberbullying and pressure over body image”.

LAYING STRONG FOUNDATIONS Prep schools are taking this message seriously; not just putting pupil wellbeing at the centre of their pastoral care programmes, but doing so from an early age. “As soon as pupils walk through the door to pre-prep, it’s important to prioritise wellbeing,” says Katie Paynter, Head of Pre-Prep at Prince’s Gardens Prep. “Because if they’re not happy, they’re not going to learn.”

In practice, this means gentle and LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

age-appropriate support from specialist staff, who collaborate with other important figures across a child’s life. “We talk about the power of three,” says Katie Paynter.

“Parents, children and staff all need to work together and communicate to get the very best outcome for a child.”

But happiness isn’t always something

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WAYS TO SUPPORT YOUR CHILD’S MENTAL HEALTH**

Consider the “Five Ways to Wellbeing” This includes connecting with people, being active and mindful, keeping learning and giving to others. Think about things you can encourage your child to do, or do together.

Talk about mental health Talk about staying connected with others or being physically active, to take care of our minds; just as you might encourage your child to eat fruit and vegetables.

Model good habits Taking care of your own mental health means it’s easier for your child to see good habits play out.

Think about technology Using phones and laptops can impact on our sleep, which is important to our mental health.

We’re also more likely to listen to each other if we’re not distracted by technology.

Watch out for changes in your child’s behaviour Young people tell us how they’re feeling in many ways, not always verbally. Learning what is normal for your child makes it easier to notice when things change.

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that comes naturally. “Most people would agree that wellbeing is something they strive towards,” says the Mental Health Foundation.

And this makes it all the more necessary to teach children resilience and positive emotional habits early in their school lives.

GETTING PERSONAL PSHEE, or Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education, can be an important part of wellbeing programmes in prep schools.

“It helps pupils to develop the knowledge and attributes they need to manage many of the opportunities, challenges and responsibilities they will face as they grow up,” says the PSHE Association. And, by fostering – among other attributes – self-esteem and resilience, it can support emotional health.

But, beyond the classroom, there’s no one size fits all. Every prep school’s approach to wellbeing, like the children they educate, will be different. And new initiatives, like the Wellbeing Award for Schools (WAS), are recognising these individual efforts.

Some preps will offer counsellors, yoga and mindfulness. Others, cuddly wellbeing dogs, buddy systems with older pupils and spaces to talk. Others still will look to online solutions such as iSpace Wellbeing to give children strategies and tools to help overcome setbacks and thrive in the face of failure.

But all will promote wellbeing with gusto, appointing trained staff to oversee activity; either in pastoral or combined pastoral and academic roles. If they spot mental health problems on the horizon, they will refer to more specialist support. And the emphasis is always on the proactive; drawing on houseparents, matrons, teachers and others to both help with and prevent problems.

Experts endorse collaborative efforts like these. “Evidence shows that interventions which take the ‘whole organisation’ or ‘whole system’ approach are more likely to have a positive impact in relation to outcomes,” says the Anna Freud Centre.

And for life after prep school? It’s over to senior schools to carry on the good work. L Cognita’s Global Be Well Day is on Friday 27 September

Prepared. To grow somewhere new.

Our new preparatory school opens in September 2020 Prince’s Gardens is a brand new independent preparatory school, in the heart of South Kensington, for children aged 3-11 years. A unique school where bright sparks and young explorers can excel academically, whilst developing the self-confidence, strength of character and independence of mind to see our challenging world from their own unique perspective.

To reserve your place at our launch event on the premises of the Royal Geographical Society SW7 2AR on Monday 23rd September at 10am, Search...

PGPREP

or visit princesgardensprep.co.uk/belong

Prepared for everything.

Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School, 10-13 Prince’s Gardens, London SW7 1ND

EDUCATION

THE GOOD AU PA I R G U I D E GEORGINA BLASKEY gives tried-and-tested advice on how to make the right choice

Having an au pair can be a fun and culturally rich experience for your child

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hen it comes to au pairs, there’s plenty of horror stories to go round. Have you heard the one about the au pair who arrived a size 16, dieted down and then left with all the mother’s clothes (including underwear)? Or the one who drove her host family’s car without permission – or insurance – denied it but was caught on the congestion charge camera because the notices kept arriving through the letterbox? It cuts both ways though… There are au pairs who have been propositioned by husbands and one I know of who was paid £100 a week to look after a baby all day but not allowed to leave the house as the mother wanted to breastfeed and she was told

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her ‘time off ’ was the baby’s nap time. No wonder it can feel like a minefield when it comes to choosing an au pair. But, in fact, this is a long-standing, proven, affordable solution that is culturally enriching for both the au pair and the family. Most families I know have stayed in touch with their au pairs, visited them on holiday, attended their weddings and gone on to meet their children.

It all starts with knowing where you stand and adhering to the rules of the arrangement.

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WHAT IS AN AU PAIR? If you get it right, the au pair solution should be a rich experience for both the family and the young person you bring in to your home. But it’s imperative that both parties understand the requirements and expectations of the arrangement. An au pair is a young foreigner, usually with babysitting experience, who comes to the UK to learn English and experience the culture. They are not a trained nanny with formal qualifications,

EDUCATION

START AS YOU MEAN TO GO ON!

Sole care of pre-school-aged children should be limited to four hours a day

Au pair agency, Pebbles Agency, provides top tips on how to welcome your au pair into your home and ensure the placement gets off to the best start.

SHOW THEM AROUND Give them a tour of the house and show them all common spaces.

This may include showing them how the appliances work, how to use the TV, and providing them with the wifi password. Show them their bedroom and give them space to unpack.

EMERGENCY SITUATIONS Although it’s unlikely to happen, you should brief your au pair on what to do in the case of an emergency. Insure they know that 999 is how to contact emergency services, and when it should be called. Also give them practical advice on what to do in the case of a smoke alarm or a fire alarm.

WHAT IS THE DEAL? An au pair can work up to seven hours per day, up to 30 hours per week, looking after children aged three and above. This may include two evenings of babysitting and up to one hour of light housework per day. There should be no sole care for children under two years old, and sole care for pre-school-aged children should be limited to four hours a day. In return, the au pair can expect full board and lodging in your family home as well as a weekly allowance - £100 per week (but normally £120-£130 in London). It is recommended that the host family contributes at least £20 per month towards language school costs and that hours are arranged so that the au pair can attend language school at least once a week. Your au pair should have two free days each week and be offered one full weekend off per month.

WHAT KIND OF ROOM AND BOARD DO WE PROVIDE? Your au pair must have full board and is not expected to cook for the whole family (this should be taken in turns), but she is expected to cook for and eat with the children and wash up from that meal. She should have her own room, which must be private and include a window and a place to study. Au pairs may have internet access in their free time

CAN MY AU PAIR HELP ME WITH MY BABY OR TODDLER? An au pair only looks after children aged two and up. In certain cases, if a child is six months or older and the host family has trained the au pair and is confident she can take care of the baby, it is possible for the au pair to mind the baby for up to an hour in specific situations, for example, if one parent is working from home at all times and the au pair is babysitting in the next room or if the au pair takes the baby to a childminder or nursery and brings them home (ask your au pair agency for their guidelines on this). L

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION You should give your au pair a list of important numbers. Ensure they know how to call them and help enter them into their phone, as they may need to enter a dialling code if using a foreign sim card.

HOUSE KEYS Give the au pair their keys and any codes they might need. Practise entering and leaving the house, and make sure they know how to securely close the house. Check the au pair knows what needs to be done before leaving the house, such as closing the windows.

TOUR OF THE AREA It’s a nice idea to go for a walk around the area. Show them where the school is and their local bus or train stops as well as anything else that might be of interest to them.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

but they probably have some informal experience with children through babysitting, working at a summer camp or helping with younger siblings.

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EDUCATION

LIFE LESSONS Should you talk about serious issues with young children?

GEORGINA BLASKEY investigates this to be the case. Changes in the family dynamic, for whatever reasons – divorce, unemployment, abuse – can make children feel upset, angry and even depressed.

These feelings can go on to affect other areas of their life, such as school or friendships.

When we are faced with a challenge in our personal lives, what we say to our children, how we say it and when could shape their reaction as well as their resilience.

ILLNESS Telling your children one of their parents is ill is daunting, to say the least. The ideal is to give them the pertinent details of the illness and explain how it’s going to affect them, without frightening them.

Have answers to their questions ready and try to answer confidently, without hesitation.

Mary McLaurie is an American poet who had to tell her eight- and 10-year-old boys she had complete kidney failure. After a successful kidney transplant, she wrote these suggestions to help other parents: • Consider the timings of your news and how it may affect other areas of their lives – is it near a holiday? Do they have tests coming up or a big sports event? If possible, wait until major challenges are over.

• Allow them to ask questions. Answer with age-appropriate responses, staying focussed on the specific question in hand.

• Ask them questions – how do you think this will change things at home? At school? Ask for their suggestions to help make things easier. Inclusion is important.

• Don’t hide your feelings – while you don’t want to frighten them, you do want them to know there are times you may feel sad or tired. Let them comfort you. It’s important for them to feel they are active participants in your life, and nothing warms a child’s

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heart more than knowing they’ve helped you feel better.

FAMILY ESTRANGEMENT When a family relationship breaks down, it can be hard on your children to comprehend why they can’t see that person any more. Once you’ve worked out your own feelings about the situation, then you can start talking to the kids. Look at it from their point of view because, by nature of being egocentric if below the age of six or seven, they may think it has something to do with them.

• Keep the story of what happened simple, explaining to them that sometimes you can’t be around a family member if it’s not the best option for everyone.

• Talk about what’s changing for them – this means we won’t meet up, or FaceTime, or call, like we did before.

• Allow space for their feelings – I wonder if you’re sad? I’m sad, too.

• Reassure them it’s not their fault.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

I

t’s not easy talking to your child about complex issues, such as family estrangement or illness. My kids have a great-grandmother they have only met once because she’s estranged from our family.

The kids know about her but it’s sad they don’t know her, as she’s their only surviving great-grandparent. I have a friend who doesn’t talk to her mother any more, although her children are allowed to visit her. I know a work colleague whose children don’t know she’s been battling breast cancer, and another who has struggled to tell her children that one of their siblings has a fatal, degenerative disease. How do we navigate these complex, grown-up issues with our children in an age-appropriate, sensitive way – or should we just not go there at all?

As the mother of a 10 and 13 year old, I feel my children are far more mature in their comprehension of issues beyond their years than I was at that age. Perhaps it comes from growing up in a world where everything is filmed and presented, virtually uncensored, 24-hours a day via news channels or the internet. They’ve eaten their cereal while watching children being bombed in Syria, or witnessing the aftermath of men with knives storming through their capital city. They’re wondering if their planet is going to survive long enough for their grandchildren to inhabit it, and they’ve seen their country cut itself off from a continent and an ally. With a backdrop such as this, it’s no wonder I sometimes feel they are wise beyond their years.

But comprehending what goes on in the wider world and living with family trauma is a different scenario. Whereas a world event is upsetting, children recognise it is out of their hands, but young people and children can often think family problems are their fault, even if nobody has ever suggested

EDUCATION

HAVE ANSWERS TO THEIR QUESTIOINS READY AND TRY TO ANSWER CONFIDENTLY, WITHOUT HESITATION By having a discussion with your child, you are showing them you’re there and care

• Let them ask questions.

• Bring in other role models to fill the gap, if possible.

• Expect further conversations, particularly as they grow up.

MONEY WORRIES If you’re struggling financially, it will impact your family, but telling your children about money worries isn’t that beneficial to them.

Children are helpless in this situation and need to feel a sense of security, so you could scare or confuse them. But it’s also important to teach children about money, and your kids may be picking up on your stress anyway. Not sure what to tell them? Consider these factors: • If you are unable to hide your emotions about your finanical situation, you may need to explain what’s going on so they aren’t blaming themselves for your behaviour.

• How old are they? Children younger than six aren’t going to understand what’s going on, and under 12s could feel very insecure if they know the details.

• Is your child going through any other issues right now, with school, for example?

Would this knowledge add to their stress?

• How serious is it? If it involves selling your house or losing your job, you’ll need to reassure them as these changes take place.

Talking to your child about life’s toughest experiences requires patience and reassurance, but in choosing to explain a serious life event to your children, you may find substantial benefits. If you openly communicate, you are already creating a compassionate space for them to ask questions and for you to show them you’re here and you’re listening. You’re able to clear up any confusion and keep an open dialogue, and show them why honesty counts. Sometimes, life’s lemons, however bitter, can bring lemonade. L LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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EDUCATION

P L AY I N G I T S A F E Are you a snowflake parent? BECK Y DICKINSON explores the importance of letting children take risks

H

ave you ever been tempted to leave your child in the car while you rush out for a loaf of bread or pint of milk, or to pay for petrol?

It’s something many parents have done, or at least considered.

Yet when one woman was caught leaving her children alone in a supermarket car park, she was called out on social media.

She retaliated by calling her keyboard attackers ‘snowflake parents’.

The children in question were fine. Yet the story opened up fierce debate about overly protective parenting. The chances of something awful happening to a child who is left unattended for a few minutes may be small, yet life can – and does – change in an instant. Personally, I wouldn’t risk leaving the people I love most in the world alone in a car – unless I was within metres and able to see them the whole time. I don’t believe this makes me a snowflake parent – just a cautious one. (Although equally, I don’t believe in criticising other parents. The reality is that kids can be exhausting, we are all busy and we should be creating an environment where it’s okay to ask for help.)

However, when it comes to taking risks, surely we need to differentiate between exposing our children to potential danger through our own actions (like leaving them unattended) and allowing them to take their own calculated risks, with guidance and support when needed. Today’s parents are commonly accused of raising a generation of ‘snowflakes’ - defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as people who are ‘overly sensitive or as feeling entitled to special treatment or consideration’. It’s argued that ‘snowflake’ children grow up unable to deal with the harsh reality of life, or to cope with views that challenge their own.

Yet Dr Sharie Coombes, child, family and adult psychotherapist, believes the term is somewhat unfair. She says: “Our children are facing more intense social and educational pressure than any generation before. They are expected to function in a 24/7 world which is clearly affecting the mental health of adults, so it’s not surprising they struggle.”

However, while acknowledging the pressure of modern society, Dr Coombes doesn’t believe the answer is to intervene at every opportunity. “Always protecting children from boredom, failure, rejection and distress reduces their ability to tolerate uncertainty and uncomfortable feelings and diminishes their opportunity to develop resilience,” she says. Her advice is “let children set their own pace, let them take responsibility for planning and carrying

CHILDREN NEED TO EXPERIENCE ALL SORTS OF SCENARIOS TO BUILD RESILIENCE

out fun and important tasks, let them make mistakes and step in only if you feel they are actually unsafe”.

Parenting expert and author Liat Hughes Joshi agrees. She says: “Children need to experience all sorts of scenarios to learn from them and build resilience. Helicopter and overly-indulgent styles of parenting have led to more young people lacking resilience and perspective than used to be the case. We all need and want to protect children from real harm, but too often we’re taking this too far.”

Yet, it’s not just parents who are to blame.

Take the school playground, for example.

Games that were once a childhood right of

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passage – conkers, marbles and bulldog, to name a few – are now banned due to the current ‘health and safety’ climate. My own children’s primary school has recently added cartwheels to the list of dangerous, and therefore prohibited, activities. Soon they won’t even be allowed to run!

But it’s not just about the possibility of physical harm. Dr Coombes stresses that adults should also refrain from controlling other areas of children’s lives. “I’ve known parents do all the child’s homework because they don’t think their child will do it well enough. Or they make all the arrangements for every aspect of the child’s life,” she says.

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

EDUCATION

Let your child set their own pace so they can grow in confidence

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

FURTHER READING

“This can lead to anxiety and mental health problems because the child grows up fearing their own efforts will never be good enough, they can be terrified of making mistakes, or worse, of even trying in the first place.”

Liat adds that children need to be able to make and learn from their own mistakes.

“Sometimes the school of hard knocks helps us in the longer term. That’s what we have lost a little as parents – the idea of short-term pain for long-term gain.”

As parents, we are hard-wired to want to LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

protect our children from every potential hazard, yet in allowing them to push their own boundaries, we allow them to grow in confidence and self-sufficiency – whether that’s climbing a tree, walking to the letterbox alone, failing at something, or falling out with friends. And ultimately, the thing we want most for our children is for them to grow into happy, well-adjusted people who will be able to forge their own way in the world when parents are no longer on hand to clear the way. L

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• New Old-Fashioned Parenting: A Guide to Help You Find the Balance between Traditional and Modern Parenting by Liat Hughes Joshi is published by Summersdale. £10.99, amazon.co.uk • Be Brave! and Stay Strong!

by Dr Sharie Coombes are published by Bonnier (Studio Press imprint). £8.99 each, amazon. co.uk. Dr Coombe’s therapy website can be found at foundation stherapy.co.uk

EDUCATION

Princess Charlotte was a star at Chelsea Flower Show playing in her mum’s garden

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LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

EDUCATION

BRIGHT BEGINNINGS

Royal author K ATIE NICHOLL looks at Princess Charlotte’s introduction to school

T

hey were just three little words.

“Oh la la!” Princess Charlotte exclaimed as she joyfully explored her mother the Duchess of Cambridge’s Back to Nature Garden at the Chelsea Flower Show last month.

While the Cambridges have made a conscious effort to shield their three young children from the media spotlight, they allowed one of their favourite photographers, Matt Porteous, to take pictures and a Kensington Palace videographer to capture George, Charlotte and Louis playing. The footage is as charming as it is revelatory.

Running through the trees, skipping over stones, dipping her feet in the stream and energetically jumping onto a swing rope Charlotte, pretty as a picture in a printed sun dress, proved to be quite the scene stealer. In fact, she has made a habit of outshining, making sure the spotlight is on her.

She mastered the royal wave the day she was born (Kate left hospital within hours of giving birth) and while George is often shy in front of the cameras, Charlotte enjoys being the centre of attention.

As for little Louis, who recently turned one, “He just watches in awe,” laughs a friend.

With their brood of three, the Cambridges could not seem happier. As one of three herself, Kate always wanted two siblings for George, with friends speculating that William and Kate could go for another.

“I think they’d like another baby, and a girl to balance things out,” adds the source.

One gets the impression that Charlotte is very much the boss of the palace. Having

seen Princess Charlotte in action myself – I remember her cheekily poking her tongue out at photographers at Harry and Meghan’s wedding – there’s no doubt that the princess is a bundle of fun and the leader of the pack.

So she should fare well when she joins big brother Prince George at Thomas’s Battersea this September.

The independent primary school in southwest London is one of the country’s leading independent schools. The school has said they are “delighted” to be welcoming Charlotte, who apparently “can’t wait” to join her brother at what she calls “big school”.

Currently at the £20k-a-year Willcocks Nursery in Kensington, she is a popular pupil with lots of friends. On a recent royal

norm (they are rarely, if ever, photographed) and the children love playing in the sandpit at Holland Park. They also love exploring the wild beaches of Norfolk with their hands-on and loving grandparents, Carole and Michael Middleton, and are close to their aunts and uncles.

Those who know the princess say Charlotte has plenty of confidence and character, and she’s also bright and can count to 10 in French and Spanish thanks to the family’s bilingual nanny, Maria Borrallo. As a baby, she was advanced, walking by her first birthday and speaking before she turned two.

When she made her first appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony for Trooping the Colour, she seemed thrilled to see the crowds waving at them like a seasoned royal.

I remember watching George and Charlotte playing at a garden party in Canada on a royal tour and being struck by her confidence. She didn’t hesitate in going up to a huge bunch of balloons to play with them.

Now four years old, she is a talkative and playful little girl who loves making pizza, going on spider hunts, and arts and crafts.

She bears an uncanny resemblance to the Queen when she was a little girl, which might explain why the monarch has a soft spot for her and has joked that she keeps everyone in check. Even Catherine has described her only daughter as the boss of the house.

“She’s a charming and outgoing and utterly gorgeous little girl,” says a family friend. “She is what I would call a warrior princess. A bit of a tomboy, but always in a dress.” L

PHOTOGRAPHY: MATT PORTEOUS/PRESS ASSOCIATION IMAGES

APPARENTLY, CHARLOTTE “CAN’T WAIT” TO JOIN HER BROTHER AT “BIG SCHOOL”

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

engagement, the Duchess described her daughter as “very friendly” to a fellow mother.

Meanwhile, the Duke has opened up about how raising a daughter is markedly different.

“Having a daughter is a very different dynamic,” he has said. “So I’m learning about having a daughter, having a girl in the family.”

While she might be HRH, life for Charlotte, and her siblings, is surprisingly normal, which is how William and Kate want it. “It’s a remarkably ordinary childhood,” adds the friend. “Charlotte goes on play dates and to parties. Kate and William want her to experience normality.”

Walks in Kensington Park Gardens are the

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health & beauty

NEWS

The latest products and innovations in the world of wellbeing FEELING GOOD Dragons of Walton Street has announced its My Feelings Alphabet set, an ‘emotional’ A-Z helping children to understand and express emotions through visual animal representation.

Dragons has also chosen to donate a percentage of its sales to the children's mental health charity, Place2Be. £225, dragonsofwaltonstreet.com

SAFETY FIRST

BEAUTY DELIVERED

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Beauty maintenance is harder to, well… maintain when life revolves around the school run, but parents deserve pampering now more than ever. So you need to get to know LeSalon. It gathers together top therapists and brings them to your door. Download the free app to book. From £29, lesalon.com

Health experts have revealed the top 10 foods that will help to keep you looking beautiful.

Spinach, tomatoes and garlic will maintain young and healthy-looking skin, and stop breakouts; avocados, soy and dark chocolate will strengthen hair and nails. vivotion.com LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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HEALTH

What’s the alternative?

THESE NATURAL REMEDIES WILL WORK WONDERS ON COMMON HEALTH AILMENTS, SAYS NUTRITIONIST LOUISE PYNE

OATS Between constant dryness and itchiness, tackling the discomfort that eczema causes can feel like a never-ending battle for parents.

Among other factors, a change in weather could cause flare ups. One in five children suffer from the skin condition, and while there is currently no cure, there are many ways that you can help to treat the problem.

Soothing and protecting the skin is the number one rule to restore and safeguard the skin’s barrier, and using oats is a quick and easy way to relieve any unrelenting itching.

“Put two to three tablespoonfuls of oats into a sock and tie it at the top to make a sponge.

Use it to bathe the skin and as a giant tea bag that will fill the bath with oat infusion,” shares Hannah Charman, a medical herbalist who runs Physic Health Consulting. After the bath, pat skin dry and gently apply virgin coconut oil all over the body. The nourishing oil contains healthy fatty acids that reduce inflammation while moisturising the skin.

ONION Chest infections are common as we head into autumn and winter, and a homemade herbal cough syrup can help provide relief from congested airways as it soothes irritated membranes of the throat. “To make an onion cough syrup, layer sliced red onion and brown sugar in a clean jam jar. When the jar is full, put the lid on and leave it somewhere warm for a few hours until there’s plenty of liquid in there. Strain it, bottle it and label the bottle with the date and contents. Keep in the fridge and use as much as you need. White onion or fresh garlic make good alternatives for more stubborn coughs, as all of the onion family are very good at killing chest infections,”

the runny nose is due to a cold, drinking the cordial with warm water will help bring down a high temperature, too,” says Hannah.

CHAMOMILE A mild tummy ache is common in children, and often a sign of constipation. “Try to get your children used to drinking herbal teas from a young age so that using them as medicine won’t come as such a shock when they’re unwell,” believes Hannah. If your child is suffering an upset tummy, chamomile works well to soothe it, and cardamom is also useful. “With cardamom, simply add 1-2 crushed pods to hot water, brew for five minutes before straining,” she continues.

Elderflower coridal is top of our list to help beat the discomfort of a runny nose maintains Hannah. Use a tablespoon two to three times a day to help provide relief.

ELDERFLOWER As soon as your child enters childcare or school, it can feel like sneezing season never ends. Elderflower cordial is top of our list to help beat the discomfort of a runny nose.

“Elderflower is a great decongestant that tones the mucous membranes in the nose.

And you could easily make your own,” says Hannah. Place an inch of sugar in a large jar. Cover with elderflower heads and layer another inch of sugar on top of the flower.

Repeat the process until the jar is full, finishing with a layer of sugar on top. Leave for seven days, shaking the jar each day and you should have a lovely syrup by the end. “If 76

GINGER If your child has a bout of diarrhoea, she may be suffering from a tummy bug.

She probably won’t feel like eating, so stick to water and bland foods like crackers and rice. Ginger has antispasmodic properties that help to calm down muscle contractions in the digestive system, and sipping on warm ginger tea can help provide almost instant relief. “Older children might like to try chewing some crystalised ginger,” adds Hannah. “Dairy should be avoided but kefir (fermented yoghurt) is the exception to the rule. It contains live bacteria that can help to restore normal bowel function, so give her a spoonful throughout the day.” L LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

W

hether your little one is returning to nursery, beginning preschool or taking the leap to primary school, the start of the school season can be a prime time for your child to fall ill. Many factors can trigger illness, from a new environment and close contact with classmates, to the shift in season that allows for germs and viruses to spread more easily. As your child’s immune system develops, she’ll continue to be vulnerable to common ailments, and while your GP should always be your first port of call for health issues that require traditional medical care, there are some great non-pharmaceutical options to treat minor issues.

Sipping on warm ginger tea can bring almost instant relief to a i suffering it a tu y bug

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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HEALTH

Smile, please!

OUR CHILDREN’S TEETH ARE A CONCERN FOR US ALL. ARE THEY BRUSHING ENOUGH? IS THUMB SUCKING REALLY THE END OF THE WORLD? AND WHAT ABOUT BRACES? GEORGINA BLASKEY FINDS OUT

T

he London Assembly Health Committee recently published the report Child Dental Health: Keeping the tooth fairy away, with one of the main recommendations being that all schools in London should be sugar-free by 2022, alongside a suggestion of supervised brushing in schools. While we know that our children’s teeth and dental hygeine are a cause for concern, as parents, what do we need to look out for at home? Here are the main factors:

TOOTH DECAY Tooth decay is a major health concern worldwide and still a big problem in the UK – it’s one of the most common causes of hospital admission in children, with sports drinks and sweets being the big culprits. To help prevent tooth decay, fissure sealant is recommended.

“On permanent molars (from about age seven or eight), we can paint on a small amount of fluoride inside the fissure which seals the tooth and protects it from food and bacteria,” says Marie Baldo, dental associate at Glow Dental in Battersea. This must be done early, on healthy teeth only – there are more cases of tooth decay starting inside teeth so an X-ray may be advisable to check for cavities first.

TRAUMA Chipping or breaking a tooth is common among young children who play sport and love to whizz around on scooters. If your

child fractures or breaks their tooth, Dr Neil Counihan, one of the UK’s leading orthodontists and founder of Metamorphosis Orthodontics in Fulham, has this advice: “If the tooth is chipped, find the fragment and get to the dentist – it may be the fragment is embedded in the lower lip. If the tooth has moved, gently move it back if you can, then

Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of hospital admission in children visit the dentist, orthodontist or A&E. If it has been knocked out, put the tooth back in their mouth, or in your own, until you get to the dentist. Get there within a few hours and there’s a good chance the tooth will survive.”

THUMB SUCKING Once your child is over six, this habit needs to stop as it can have a detrimental affect to the face. “It turns the U-shaped jaw into a V-shape,” explains Dr Counihan. This can lead to a permanent bite issue. “I suggest a habit breaker (a fixed appliance) to help them stop once and for all.”

GAPPY TEETH This is a frequent problem between the central 78

incisors in the upper jaw, and often the gap will close by itself as canines come down. But there are common causes, such as: • Smaller teeth can cause a gappy smile – this could be hereditary.

• A fleshy frenulum (the ‘fleshy’ tissue flap above the front teeth).

• Missing teeth. While in very rare circumstances the frenulum can be removed, generally gaps close by themselves or a permanent wire (a lateral retainer) may be used.

WHITE SPOTS These can be caused by illness, by enamel being formed irregularly or trauma on a baby tooth which has left a scar on a permanent LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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tooth. Grey-looking teeth might occur after very long-term antibiotic use. Glow Dental offers a microinvasive treatment called iCon. “We use a solution to make micro holes on the white spots, then we spread on a gel, which fills the holes and disguises the spot,” Marie explains. “It all depends on how deep the lesion is, but it is most effective on superficial spots.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

BRACES Often seeking advice early can improve results, shorten treatment time and reduce costs. “There’s an old-fashioned belief that you need to wait until all adult teeth are present before you can start treatment,” says Dr Counihan. “Inceptive treatments can stop trauma and fractures by bringing incisors inside the lower lip, resolve cross bites more LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

easily and set everything up to grow properly.”

There are different types of braces for different ages and issues, says Amina Abdel-Karim, orthodontist at Glow Dental.

FUNCTIONAL: “An example is the twin block, removable brace used to encourage growth of the lower jaw and close a gap down, usually suitable for boys age 11 to 12, and girls age 10 to 11.”

INTERCEPTIVE ORTHODONTICS: “This removable brace is used from an early age, eight to 10, for issues such as a top incisor that needs straightening or a cross bite.”

FIXED: “With this brace you can move teeth individually in all directions on all four planes,” explains Amina. “It is the only method that achieves perfect teeth and is best for permanent teeth, for crowding or for complex problems, from 12 years and up.” L 79

ISSA MIKRO BABY ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH £79, FOREO.COM

AQUAFRESH ADVANCE KIDS TOOTHPASTE AND TOOTHBRUSH £2 EACH, BOOTS.COM

SILICONE BRUSHING TIMER £11, J-ME.COM

A SENSITIVE SUBJECT GEORGINA BLASKEY TAKES A CLOSER LOOK INTO CHILDREN’S SENSITIVE AND ECZEMA-PRONE SKIN

M

y son has always had dry, sensitive skin – rashy, rough areas, sometimes in patches, sometimes all over – which he couldn’t help but scratch, occasionally drawing blood, so I tried to keep his nails short. It never progressed to the full-on eczema that I’ve seen some children suffer with, more a substantial irritation. I tried pharmaceutical brands with fancy French names, bathtime emollients and creams from the GP, basic oils, nothing would bring it down. Then a friend came to dinner and mentioned she was no longer eating dairy because of her eczema and she’d noticed a big improvement, and it got me thinking… maybe I need to look at this issue from a different angle.

Dry, sensitive skin can trouble many families – according to children’s skincare brand Childs Farm, 82 per cent of parents in the UK believe their child has sensitive skin, and one in five children suffer from atopic eczema. The majority of eczema is inherited and may also be known as atopic dermatitis.

It tends to run in families so having a parent or aunt or sibling with atopic dermatitis, asthma, or hay fever raises the chances a person will develop atopic dermatitis. It’s a chronic condition where skin feels red and itchy and can have periodic flare ups, and triggers can be environmental as well as dietary and genetic.

We know we are what we eat, but to think we can combat chronic conditions through diet is a powerful notion. Lucinda Miller, a

top child’s nutrition expert and founder of Nature Doc Kids, is passionate about gut health and its impact on our bodies. “If you have eczema triggered by dairy products, then your child is likely to have the same trigger. The microbiome, the gut’s bacteria, dictates your immune system. Mothers who take a probiotic, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, are more likely to have babies who are protected from eczema. I have a saying, ‘Itchy on the outside equals itchy on the inside’. The gut is the core of so many illnesses. You need good bacteria to develop an immune system that does not overreact to the environment because the immune system can tag certain things as alien, for example, house mites, animals and dairy. Also, if your baby had antibiotics at birth, this could have disrupted the microbiome to be more susceptible.”

If dairy is the trigger and you’re considering cutting it out, it’s important you seek support from a nutritional therapist to ensure your child still gets the right amount of calcium, iodine, vitamin D, magnesium and zinc they need to support healthy growth and development – dairy-free milk doesn’t have much of those. I told Lucinda that my son has recently had a preference for soya milk over nut milks but, as he’s 10 years old now, she was quick to inform me that soya milk in high in oestrogen and, with the the beginnings of puberty not far off, it was preferable I switched him to oat milk instead to avoid hormonal imbalance as now is an important developmental stage. It was a powerful lesson 80

SENSITIVE SUPERHEROES

My favourite products for sensitive skin WITH GRAPFRUIT AND TEA TREE OIL, THIS SMELLS AMAZING AND GENTLY MOISTURISES SKIN WITHOUT LEAVING A GREASY RESIDUE MOISTURISER (250ML), £3.99, CHILDSFARM.COM OUR FAMILYFAVOURITE ALTERNATIVE TO COWS’ MILK AND NUT MILK OATLY OAT DRINK (1L), £1.50, OCADO.COM

PERFECT FOR UNDER SCHOOL UNIFORMS, SMALL’S GARMENTS ARE BREATHABLE AND HYPOALLERGENIC MERINO TEE, £44.50, SMALLSMERINO.CO.UK

OIL THEIR SKIN FROM THE INSIDE WITH LUCINDA’S ACCESSIBLE RECIPES THE GOOD STUFF COOKBOOK

BY LUCINDA MILLER, £20, AMAZON.CO.UK

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

RUNNING HEAD

When it comes to treating your child's eczema, use natural products with few chemicals

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

To think we can combat chronic conditions through diet is a powerful notion in understanding that expert help is so vital when thinking about cutting out food groups.

Since then, he has been under the care of one of Lucinda’s practitioners and we have totally eliminated diary. After two months, his skin is soft and smooth, providing the strong barrier his body needs, and he no longer scratches all day and in his sleep at night.

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

As eczema is an inflammatory condition, you can help oil the skin from within through what your child eats. Healthy, helpful oils can be found in salmon, mackerel, sardines, walnuts, chia seeds, organic whole milk (if dairy isn’t an issue) and omega 3-rich eggs.

Consider a fish oil supplement, too, and avocados, olive oil and tahini will also help.

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Whatever the cause and however bad the eczema, it’s important to use natural products with few chemicals. When I was using a bathtime emollient, I had to bath my children separately as I didn’t want my daughter to get emollient in her long hair as it can feel very greasy. Childs Farm has a range of products for sensitive skin that can be used on everyone and have been clinically proven to be safe for those prone to eczema, and they don’t leave a greasy residue in hair or on the bath. I’ve actually started using the body lotion on my skin every day and it feels nicely moisturised and smells gorgeous. L

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Anyone who helps care for your child should know how to deal with situations t at re uire rst ai

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HEALTH

Life skills AUTHOR AND FOUNDER OF FIRST AID FOR LIFE, EMMA HAMMETT SHARES THE IMPORTANCE OF FIRST AID AWARENESS EVEN FROM A YOUNG AGE

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ou would do anything to protect your child. However, little ones are scarily unaware of risks.

Consequently, it can be a daily battle to ensure their safety and be ready to help should they choke, hurt themselves or have some other medical emergency. In fact, perhaps unsurprisingly, children from newborn to four years old are at the highest risk from sustaining injuries at home.

CURIOUS MINDS MAKE MISTAKES Children are particularly susceptible to mishaps because they are extremely curious, constantly exploring and learning about their world. Around two million children attend A&E due to accidents, and over 100,000 of these require admission to hospital – that is nearly 2,000 children a week – with many more requiring first aid.

Accidental injuries are one of the most common causes of death for young children in the UK. Every year, thousands are left permanently disabled or disfigured from simple (but often preventable) accidents that occur at home.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

As vigilant as we try to be, it is not possible, nor healthy, to watch our children every second of the day. Plus, no environment can ever be 100 per cent safe, and children need to learn from everyday bumps and bruises.

Accidents will, and do, happen.

The most common times for childhood accidents to occur are late afternoon early evening, weekends and school holidays. It is therefore likely that parents and child carers will be the first on hand if anything goes wrong or first aid is required. Ensure you have the skills to help, should your child need you!

Operating since 2007, we train over 83

12,000 people every year, using our highly experienced team of medical, health and emergency services professionals. Parents can book onto first-aid practical courses; at First Aid for Life, we arrange these as individuals or for bespoke group courses at a time and place to suit you. We also have a great range of online courses enabling you to learn these vital skills entirely when it suits you.

Prompt first aid frequently enables children to recover completely without the need for any further medical intervention at all!

WHY IS FIRST AID SO IMPORTANT? Prompt, appropriate first aid can prevent a minor accident becoming a major one, it can reduce pain, scarring and could save your child’s life. Therefore, one of the best investment parents can make for their child, is to learn first aid. Additionally, ensure grandparents, au pairs, nannies, babysitters and anyone else who regularly spends time with your child, is ready for any eventuality.

Being first-aid trained means whoever is looking after your child can meet any potential emergency calmly, with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively help out immediately.

PEACE OF MIND FOR PARENTS The peace of mind provided by attending a first-aid course allows you to let your children develop and flourish, experiencing inevitable minor bumps and bruises along the way, all the while knowing you and those helping care for your children have the skills to recognise and help if something is more seriously wrong. L Visit firstaidforlife.org.uk to download your free guide on seven vital first-aid skills every family should know

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TODDLING AROUND

The Roam at Home play mat makes for the perfect space to cushion little tummies and feet as they learn to crawl, walk and play. The spongey geometric print tiles are packaged in a handy storage bag, easily wiped-clean and can fit together to fill any room. £75, avery-row.com

interior

NEWS

Stylish updates and inspiring finds to make your house a home The RoboVac makes it easy to keep your home clean with the touch of a button

Squeaky clean

SWEET DREAMS Little Jagger has introduced an ethically made collection illustrated

by Ingrid Petrie. The collectioin features luxury handmade children’s bedding, lighting, beanbags and other accessories that all embrace the theme of eternal nature and spirit, designed to grow and last with your child.

From £16, littlejagger.co.uk

Into the woods

Finally, a vacuum cleaner that cleans for itself. A parents’ dream.

Small, slim and not far-off silent, this RoboVac can navigate itself around your living room sliding under furniture and targeting those stubborn patches of dirt that just won’t budge. RoboVac will automatically return itself to the charging port afterwards, too. £179, eufylife.com

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Bringing the great outdoors into the comfort of your child’s bedroom, interiors brand Pea’s new collection will trigger imaginations and inspire creativity.

Choose either the Enchanted Forest or Treetops theme for pieces that are free from harmful chemicals and gentle on delicate skin. From £13, frompea.com

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CREATIVITY

get CRAFTY

LEONORA BAMFORD AND NANNY ANITA SET ABOUT HAVING SOME FUN BEFORE THE SCHOOL YEAR STARTS

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get butterflies in my tummy at the mere mention of going back to school, battling through the shoe shops and naming new school uniform. My children also manage to persuade me into buying a new pencil case filled with new stationery, forgetting for a moment that they have drawers overflowing in the playroom. While we enjoy the last few days of the summer holidays, Anita has been creating these incredible crafts, and we hope you will enjoying making them, too.

We’ve been spending lots of time cooking as a family. My husband makes amazing bread – Marmite loaf is his speciality – but we have taken to making lots of chutneys and chunky vegetable soups. A favourite is our easy tomato chutney recipe. L

Make sure your child doesn't lose their all-important pencil case by having their name inscribed on it MONOGRAM PENCIL CASE ¤ 90, LUNIFORM.COM

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CREATIVITY

GLASS BEAD MAGNETS You’ll need: Glass beads • glitter • glue • superglue • mini magnets Method • Cover the underside of the glass beads with glue.

• Sprinkle glitter all over the glue and leave them to dry.

• Once dry, add another thick layer of glue and leave them to dry overnight.

• Using superglue, attach mini magnets to each of them.

TOTALLY THAMES This year, I would love to take the children to Totally Thames, an annual celebration of the River Thames that looks really creative and has lots going on in September. totallythames.org

COTTON BUD AUTUMN TREES You will need: • Cotton buds • elastic band • paper • paint Method • Secure your ear buds together with an elastic band.

• Paint the body of the tree onto your paper.

• Use the cotton buds to stamp the leaves onto your tree.

EASY TOMATO CHUTNEY RECIPE You will need: • 250g red onions • 500g heritage tomatoes • 75ml red wine vinegar • 140g brown sugar

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG; ISTOCK

Method • Chop up the onions and tomatoes.

If you can’t find heritage, just get a nice mix of colours.

• Put the onions, tomatoes, vinegar and brown sugar in a pan and give it a good stir.

• Simmer for 30 minutes and when the consistency is right, pour into sterilised jars.

• We love adding chutney to cheese sandwiches or having a good old-fashioned Ploughmans for lunch.

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INTERIORS

HOT DESKING

ALI HOWARD ROUNDS UP THE BEST KIDS’ DESKS WHICH ARE SIMPLY TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL

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omework doesn’t have to be a chore. Keep that back-to-school enthusiasm going year-round with a smart, design-led desk of their own. These days, there are so many cool desks to choose from, whether your little one appreciates the clean lines of a contemporary bureau, or prefers a relaxed, boho-inspired workstation in rattan (so on trend right now!). Whichever style you choose, these pint-sized desks give their grown-up counterparts a run for their money with some seriously shrewd design ideas that put the fun into functional.

Made with lacquered ash plywood, the beauty of this cubic workstation is its simplicity. Fledgling architects will love designing future homes on here. Start them early with an appreciation of form.

TINC SCENTED COLOURING PENCILS (PACK OF 12) £10 JOHNLEWIS.COM

FERM LIVING LITTLE ARCHITECT TABLE £219 THEBABYROOM.CO.UK

MORRIS MEMO AND PEN HOLDER £9.50 REDCANDY.CO.UK

NASA NOTEBOOK £8 NHMSHOP.CO.UK

Boasting a wipe-clean whiteboard top, this funky desk is perfect for jotting down the best ideas when inspiration strikes. Your primary schooler will love to make their mark, but even they can’t interrupt its ean onte orary ines

PLAN TOYS TABLE AND CHAIR £139 KIDLY.CO.UK

BATTISTELLA GRAPHIC REWRITABLE CHILDREN’S DESK £650 GOMODERN.CO.UK

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INTERIORS

Little Londoners are used to sharing a bedroom, but desk space?

Not so much. This ingenious A-frame design, with its mirrored, two-sided workstation, is inspired by the shape of a playground s ing an ensures o e or is ust as u un BONTON BOHÈME DESK, £263 EN.SMALLABLE.COM

VOX SPOT TWO-SIDED DESK £325 COCKOOLAND.COM

The curvy form of this design-led children’s desk is enough to get the reati e ui es o ing n ourage your little one to think outside the box.

COMPAGNIE CHILDREN’S DESK £866 MADEINDESIGN.COM

ELLEPI KLIZIA STAPLER £24 SELFRIDGES.COM

MONOGRAPH DESK PENCIL SHARPENER £16.50 HURNANDHURN.COM

NIDI OF BATISTELLA DESK £925 NUBIE.CO.UK

JUNGLE BY JUNGLE MY LITTLE PUPITRE DESK AND CHAIR £356 KSLLIVING.FR

YPPERLIG CHILDREN’S TABLE £40 IKEA.COM

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Stainless steel, reusable and BPA-Free

Designed for easy transition as kids grow up

Fun, chip resistant colours and graphics

FREE DELIVERY

#BringYourOwn #KleanKanteenUK #KidKanteen

Just use code

LLFPP

www.kleankanteen.co.uk

With the Le Petit Chef collection, Opinel has invented a new way for children to cook.

The Opinel Le Petit Chef kitchen knife and peeler have rounded wooden handles that are comfortable to hold and a guide ring to ensure proper positioning of the fingers and to avoid touching the blade.

FREE DELIVERY

Just use code

FDLL

For the Opinel Le Petit Chef collection, visit: www.whitbyandco.co.uk

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Let your little one boldly go where no man has gone before with this space-themed tableware set

BLAST OFF!

food

Got a little astronaut on your hands? Space-loving kids are sure to love the out-of-this-world dining accessories from Rex London, and with Space Week kicking off on 4 October, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. We’ve got our eyes on the Rocket Cup, a super-cool reusable plastic water bottle complete with a spiral straw. Or for mealtimes, try the bamboo tableware set, complete with a space-themed beaker, plate, bowl and cutlery. rexlondon.com

NEWS

The latest and greatest foodie finds for your mini diners

PAD TRY… Wagamama has come up with a colourful new vegan menu specially designed for children. The collection of delicious dishes has been launched to get kids to eat outside their comfort zones. Look out for plant-based meals, including mini yasai ramen with udon noodles and mini yasai katsu curry with sweet potato and butternut squash. wagamama.com

EAT IN PEACE Sunday brunch with the kids?

Head to Market Halls in Victoria or Fulham for The Kids’ Table, a pop-up corner service that sees little ones engage in supervised crafty fun, while you tuck into something tasty from the kitchen. markethalls.co.uk

SNACK ATTACK Liven up your child’s lunchbox with these treats from Real Handful.

Available in two flavours (apple & blackberry or strawberry & raspberry), Bundlz comprise clusters of oats, cereals and raisins, all wrapped up in a yoghurt coating. From £2.50 per multipack, realhandful.com

Keep your tots busy over half term with Little Cooks Co, a subscription-based service that sees recipe kits delivered to your door each month. Filled with organic ingredients, each package contains easy-to-follow instructions, plus a family meal to try. From £8.99, littlecooksco.co.uk LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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NUTRITION

Food for thought

This fragrant chicken meals has a lovely fruity sweetness and is a real treat for your taste buds!

WHAT WE EAT CAN IMPACT OUR MOOD, THE WAY WE THINK AND HOW WE LEARN. SMART-INFUSED FÜD’S NUTRITIONIST JO SAUNDERS EXPLORES THE KEY BRAIN-BOOSTING NUTRIENTS WE NEED PROTEIN Protein is made up of “building blocks” known as amino acids that help to power our neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers in our brains. Neurotransmitters play a key role in how we think and how happy we feel, as well as how we sleep. Having some protein with each meal and snack can help keep us feeling happy and full of beans. Good sources of protein are meat, fish, tofu, eggs, lentils, beans, nuts and seeds.

B VITAMINS There is a family of eight B vitamins, each playing a slightly different role, which are important for supporting our energy levels as well as assisting with the optimal functioning of our brain. B vitamins are found in red meat, chicken, fish, lentils, beans, brown rice, milk, cheese, almonds, sunflower seeds, avocados, broccoli, spinach and bananas.

GOOD FATS A significant 80 per cent of our brains are made of fat, therefore we need a plentiful supply of good fats for our brains to function at their best. These are known as essential fatty acids (they are essential as they cannot be made by our body) and we can get these from oily fish like salmon, mackerel or sardines, eggs, nuts and seeds. Try to eat at

least two portions of these foods a week to keep your brain healthy.

MINERAL SPARK PLUGS Minerals help to make the many, many different processes in the body to work properly, from helping our muscles to relax to sparking our brains into gear. They work alongside the B vitamins as a team.

Magnesium can help us to worry less and relax more. Try adding Epsom Salts (packed with lots of lovely magnesium) to your bath at night to help you sleep deeply, ready for school the next day.

THE GUT-BRAIN CONNECTION There is also an information highway between our gut and our brain, and back the other way from our brain to our gut. This is controlled by the vagus nerve. You will be familiar with the sensation of butterflies in our tummy when we are feeling nervous or excited – this is a sign our brains and tummies are communicating. How and what we eat can help us to feel less nervous and cope with challenges more easily. It’s very simple: happy tummies = happy brains. L

B3 FRUITY CHICKEN (250G) £4.99, SMARTINFUSEDFUD.CO.UK

smartinfusedfud.co.uk

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B3 FRUITY CHICKEN

Wedges of wholemeal pitta or extra veg work well with this dish. Vitamin B3 (niacin) is important for normal functioning of both the immune and nervous systems.

Serves 4 Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Total time: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS • 1 tbsp coconut oil • 200g red onion, finely chopped • 50g carrot, chopped • 1 large clove garlic, finely chopped • 4 chicken thighs, boned and cut into bite-sized pieces (about 400-450g) • 350-400ml good-quality chicken stock (preferably homemade) • 5 dried apricots (35g) • 8 prunes (65g) FOR THE FRAGRANT SPICE MIX • 1 cinnamon stick (4g) • 2 thumb-sized pieces of fresh turmeric (4g ground) • 1 tsp ground nutmeg • 6 whole cloves (1 tsp ground) • 10 whole cardamom pods • 10 Allspice berries Method 1 To make the spice mix, place all the spices into a blender or coffee grinder and blitz to a fine powder.

2 Add some coconut oil to a saucepan and cook the onions on a medium heat until softened and slightly coloured. Add in carrots and soften slightly. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until cooked.

3 Add chicken pieces to the pan and stir to seal.

4 Add in 2 heaped tsp of the fragrant spice mix and stir to combine. If the onions and spices start to burn or catch on the bottom of the pan, add a splash of water.

5 Pour in the chicken stock, which will bubble and begin to reduce.

6 Add dried apricots and prunes, bring to a simmer.

Place the lid onto the pan and cook gently for 10 minutes.

7 After 10-15 minutes, check the chicken is cooked through. Take the pan off the heat and remove the chicken pieces to one side.

8 With a hand blender, blitz the apricots and prune stock to make a quick sauce.

9 Add the chicken back to the pan and stir everything together.

10 Scatter with toasted flaked almonds and pomegranate seeds or coriander and serve with rice.

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FOOD

The case for

ORGANIC

BECKY DICKINSON INVESTIGATES WHETHER ORGANIC FOODS REALLY ARE WORTH THE EXTRA POUNDS AND PENNIES

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s parents, we all want what’s best for our children, especially when it comes to health. Yet is organic food really any healthier?

Is an organic carrot really better for you – and your little one - than any other carrot? Well, according to science, the answer is yes.

In a ground-breaking study, it was found that the nutritional quality of organic crops was significantly higher than that of nonorganic crops. Researchers at Newcastle University discovered that some organic foods, including fruits, vegetables and cereals, were up to 60 per cent higher in a number of key antioxidants – substances that are believed to help to protect diseases such as cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. What’s more, the difference in nutritional value meant that eating organic crops, compared to conventionally grown ones, was like getting an extra 1–2 portions of fruit and veg a day – which is great if you struggle to get your little one to eat their five a day.

In addition, organic crops were found to contain lower concentrations of potentially harmful pesticide residues, heavy metals and other pollutants. In short, eating organic means more of the good stuff and no added ‘nasties’. On the other hand, more than 320 pesticides can be used in non-organic farming. And while certain amounts of these substances are legally permitted for use on edible crops, it’s hard to see how anything that is harmful in high doses can

Serving your little ones organic fruit and veg will make it easier for you to get them to eat t eir e a ay

be okay in small doses – especially for children whose bodies, brains and immune systems are still developing.

But it’s not just fruit and veg. Research also indicates that organic meat and dairy products are better for us, too, containing around 50 per cent more omega-3 fatty acids than non-organic products, as well as higher concentrations of some vitamins and minerals, such as iron, vitamin E and CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), which has been linked to a decreased risk of cancer and other diseases. And, of course, organic eggs, milk and meat also come with the reassurance that the animals involved haven’t been pumped full of antibiotics and have been allowed to graze and roam freely on land that hasn’t been polluted with chemicals.

Besides being better for our own health and animal welfare, another pressing reason to buy organic is that it’s better for the planet, too. Intensive farming practices around the world mean that insects are now disappearing 94

at an alarming rate, due to the widespread use of pesticides and fertilisers. According to a recent global review, more than 40 per cent of insect species are declining and a third are endangered. The consequences of this are potentially catastrophic. Insects play a vital role in pollination and food chains and without them whole ecosystems are liable to collapse, posing a dire threat to food production and the survival of the planet.

The scale of the problem calls for global and political action, but we can all make a difference by opting for organic at the checkout. Doing so means supporting famers LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

FOOD

THE BEST ORGANIC BITES ORGANIX JAMMIE MONSTERS JUNK-FREE BISCUITS AND ORGANIX MINI SPACE CHEESE BITES WITH FRESH DRIED ORGANIC CHEDDAR CHEESE. BOTH AVAILABLE FROM BOOTS AND MAJOR SUPERMARKETS, £2.49 PER BOX

LICKALIX ORGANIC ICE LOLLIES. AVAILABLE FROM OCADO, WHOLEFOODS, BUDGENS, AS NATURE INTENDED, PLANET ORGANIC, EAT17, SPAR AND JAMIE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANTS, MULTIPACKS £3.99

SUPER TREATS CREAMY CAROB THAT TASTES LIKE MILK CHOCOLATE BUT BETTER FOR YOU. FROM LEADING HEALTH FOOD RETAILERS, INCLUDING WHOLE FOODS MARKET AND PLANET ORGANIC, AS WELL AS OCADO.COM AND AMAZON.CO.UK, £1.99

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

RIVERFORD ORGANIC FRUIT BOXES. ORDER ONLINE AT RIVERFORD. CO.UK, FROM £13.85, INCLUDING DELIVERY

who work in harmony with the environment, by caring for the soil and avoiding the use of substances that harm natural habitats and wildlife. In addition, research shows there is around 50 per cent more plant, insect and bird life on organic farms than non-organic farms, including around 30 per cent more species.

According to the Soil Association, if all UK farms switched to organic, this would equate to taking nearly one million cars off the road.

And if half of all farming in the European Union converted to organic by 2030, it would reduce the amount of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions by almost a quarter. This is LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

because whereas intensive farming methods deplete the soil, organic farming actually enhances and protects it, and healthy soils store huge amounts of carbon – storing three times as much carbon as the atmosphere and five times as much as forests.

Given the evidence, it’s hard to see what’s not to like about organic. There is one sticking point, though, and that’s the cost. There’s no denying that organic food is more expensive, especially when it comes to meat. However, with so much evidence pointing to the benefits of a more plant-based diet, there has never been a better time to eat less meat and 95

to choose quality instead of quantity. So, for example, instead of eating cheaper-than-pizza poultry, or plastic ham, every week, why not eat more beans and pulses instead, but have a mouth-watering, grass-fed organic steak once or twice a month? And, of course, it probably tastes better, too!

The evidence speaks for itself. Going organic may involve a little more cost, but it could be the best investment in your family’s health you ever make. What’s more, you’ll be helping to protect the environment for your children and future generations. In fact, the planet may well depend upon it. L

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BLUE WAVE SWIM SCHOOL

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DUTCH DELIGHTS

t ravel

NEWS

Keeping big and little globetrotters on the map and in the know

Experience the wonders of Amsterdam at the Pulitzer hotel for an alternative family holiday. With the Ultimate Kids Getaway Package, you can visit the famous NEMO Science Museum and decorate desserts with the chef of Pulitzer’s signature restaurant.

A treasure hunt through 25 canal houses tops off this package for a fun-filled city getaway. From £839, pulitzeramsterdam.com

Get your little adventurers harnessed up for a rope ride in the tree tops

A SWIM WITH A DIFFERENCE Galago Joe, an animal-inspired swimwear brand for men and toddlers, gives 10 per cent of every pair sold to Helping Rhinos, The Gorilla Organization and Mayhew animal trust. The bold and bright, hand-illustrated patterns ensure you’ll stand out while making a charitable difference. Kids’ from £35; men’s from £75, galagojoe.com

INTO THE WILD

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT

Something spooky is happening on Halloween night as 200 glowing pumpkins set sail on the Lower Mill Estate lagoon. Carve out pumpkins and do crafts in the witch’s tepee, then spot beavers and owls on a nature walk at dusk. From £902 for

Looking for a family staycation?

Holkham Estate, Norfolk, has a new rope course. Set in woodland, this adrenaline-filled adventure will see participants crossing swinging bridges and zooming down zip lines, all while in safe and experienced hands. From £16, holkham.co.uk

four nights, lowermillestate.com

The Elounda Peninsula All Suite Hotel in Crete has launched a kids wellness scheme that includes yoga and Greek dancing lessons. The classes are a chance to relax, learn something new and help boost attention and self-esteem. eloundapeninsula.com LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Check out Hagia Sophia from Four Seasons Sultanahmet’s rooftop terrace

Four Seasons Sultanahmet is a fabulous family-friendly hotel

POS TCAR D

Surpise! Lunch at Topkapi Palace

from

ISTANBUL GEORGINA BLASKEY and family venture on a historical city break DRIVING THROUGH THE BUSTLING city streets of this sprawling metropolis, where Asia meets Europe and ancient meets modern, I knew this was going to be an adventure! With the whole family in tow, I tried to fathom how 20 million people could live here and how we would navigate our time. I needn’t have worried. Most of the main sights are located in the old town, Sultanahmet, and this is where we started, heading for Hagia Sophia, a former Greek Orthodox Cathedral that is now a museum.

We spent an hour wandering around, gazing at the dome which dates from the 6th century when the city was known as Constantinople.

After lunch at nearby The Khorasani (kebabs, dips and pittas were a hit with the kids), we headed to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered market. Following a busy day, sanctuary was found at the Four Seasons Istanbul at Sultanahmet. This neoclassical hotel is a tranquil structure with a flower-adorned courtyard and cool corridors lined with painted tiles. Steps away from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, it’s also near Arasta Bazaar, a small pedestrianised road lined with shops – and less hectic than

the Grand Bazaar. We ate in the Seasons restaurant, rested in our suite and woke the next morning ready to explore more.

First stop was the Topkapi Palace, with stunning grounds and multiple rooms inlaid with mother-of-pearl and tortoiseshell walls.

The permanent exhibitions fascinated us all, too – the weapons room went down a treat with my son! There’s a lovely restaurant to eat at here called Konyali (konyalilokantasi.com) on the banks of the Bosphorus.

After lunch, we moved to Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, a lovingly restored, 19th-century Ottoman palace on the Bosphorus. It’s a grander hotel with a spa and indoor and outdoor pools, where we spent some chill-out time. Our exploration of the river continued that evening when we took a private boat trip with Cruise Istanbul (cruisesistanbul.com). Arriving at the hotel’s jetty, we enjoyed a sunset tour up the European side, peering in to residential neighbourhoods, crossing over to come down the Asian side, a tranquil, greener landscape.

Thank you, Istanbul – for taking us on a historical journey beyond our imagination. L

Snapped inside Hagia Sophia

A private boat trip on the Bosphorus is a must

A beautitul spot to chill out – the Hotel Bosphorus swimming pool

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ADVERTORIAL

THE BIG FIVE Why you’ ll want to become a Simpson family traveller

Enjoy the privacy of your own peaceful villa

W

ith luxury villas and boutique hotels across the Mediterranean and beyond, Simpson Travel knows a thing or two about that all-important family escape. But creating that perfect getaway is down to choosing the right ingredients, and here are five you won’t want to miss…

1

STRESS-FREE TRAVEL

Simpson Travel holidays offer everything, from flights to car hire and a friendly face to greet you at the airport. And for total peace of mind, they’re ABTA members with ATOL bonding, too.

2

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

There is no one-sizefits-all approach to the perfect

Toddler-friendly beaches await in Greece

Bella Mare Hotel is a family-friendly haven in north-east Corfu

family holiday. Simpson Travel takes service to the next level, offering a range of extras to help you tailor your escape to your personal needs. With complimentary infant packs, rash vests for children, and villas offering a pool fencing service, they’ve thought of it all.

3

TRUSTED CHILDCARE

Simpson Tots to Teens provides expert childcare from six months to 16 years, with crèches and clubs run by UKqualified staff in a nurturing environment. New for 2019 is a private Simpson Nanny Service in Corfu, bringing childcare right to your villa door.

4

AWARDWINNING VILLAS

Simpson Travel’s superb range of familyfriendly villas have been carefully handpicked.

From single-storey retreats with expansive lawns and enclosed gardens, to idyllic villas LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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just a stone’s throw from a toddler-friendly beach, they have everything you need for children young and old.

5

FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS

While you put your feet up, there’s plenty to keep your brood occupied at Simpson Hotels, whether they’re building sandcastles on the beach in Corsica, ordering mocktails in Crete, or enjoying watersports in Corfu. L

PLANNING YOUR NEXT FAMILY HOLIDAY? Simpson Travel has more than 40 years’ experience planning the happiest family holidays. To speak to a travel expert, call 020 3773 5314 or visit simpsontravel.com

TRAVEL

Kudu roam the grounds at Karkloof

Wildlife spotters at the ready with tracker Dylan

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HIT THE

The pool at Karkloof Safari Spa

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.HOLLY TUPPEN TESTS OUT A ROAD TRIP THROUGH THE MOUNTAINS, WILDLIFE AND HISTORY OF KWAZULU-NATAL, SOUTH AFRICA, WITH HER TWO BOYS IN TOW

The rhino population is thriving at &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve

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TRAVEL

The Oyster Box overlooks the Indian Ocean

There's something rather special about seeing a baby giraffe out in the wild with its mother

“

W

hen are we going back to South Africa, pleasssssse, when, when?” These are the repeated chants of my five year old who seems to think flying down two continents is akin to nipping down the A303.

There’s something about South Africa’s warm hospitality, mind-boggling wildlife, and spine-tingling landscapes that get as much under the skin of little ones as they do with grown-ups. So, when Sally & Alice Travel Co (sallyandalice.com) tipped me off about a self-drive road trip around KwaZuluNatal, taking in rural communities, safari, beaches, and the infamous Drakensburg Mountains, I couldn’t resist. Here’s a quick run-down of how to do it.

First stop is Karkloof Safari Spa and Villas, just an hour from Durban. Although

Ranger Mr T get his A-team ready for the game drive

Karkloof isn’t the most luxurious of safari lodges, it has everything needed for a relaxed couple of days decompressing: staff are accommodating, there’s a huge pool, and the self-contained bungalows come with sweeping nature-reserve views. While recovering from the flight in Karkloof ’s award-winning spa, kids can get busy spotting warthogs, zebra, kudu and monkeys roaming around the grounds. Game drives are gentle and laidback, perfect for firsttimers. We particularly loved the hike up to Karkloof Falls We all enjoyed (rangers keep little legs going hiking up with creepy-crawly spotting Karkloof Falls along the way) and seeing the reserve’s highly protected white rhinos.

Fully prepped for adventure, we head towards the Drakensberg Mountains.

The ‘dragon’s back’ is a spine of mountains that divides 102

South Africa with land-locked Lesotho.

The scale of the landscape is implied in names like Cathedral Peak and Giant’s Castle, but nothing prepares you for the drama that unfolds. We headed straight for Cathedral Peak Hotel, soaking up the views of encroaching mountains and vibrant villages along the way. Once parked-up, there are heaps of hiking trails for the taking — we opted for a two-hour stomp to Doreen Falls, where we dodged baboons and enjoyed a bracing dip and picnic lunch before heading back to the hotel for an ice cream.

Under an hour from the mountains is the more genteel Spioenkop Game Reserve.

Here, Three Tree Hill Lodge offers an excellent base for days spent back in the mountains, exploring Anglo-Boer War battlefields, going on walking safaris, or LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

TRAVEL The boys waved goodbye to the Indian Ocean in Durban

Days on the reserve drift by in a whirlwind of exceptional wildlife and hospitality Cathedral Peak and the Drakensberg Mountains

PHOTOGRAPHY: HOLLY TUPPEN; ISTOCK

Our welcome committee to the reserve included two cheetahs

simply staying put. This 20-room lodge is run by the warmest of souls, the Blackburns, who have poured all their energy into making Three Tree Hill a welcoming and sustainable retreat. Our two-bedroom cabin, with a huge terrace overlooking the Spioenkop Game Reserve, was as functional for kids as it was beautiful. There’s a playground, trampoline, marked nature-trails for bite-size adventures, bikes and horse-riding. Busy days wrap up with a dip in the pool and afternoon LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

tea – vital prep for sundowners with more than 20 gins on offer.

Next up is a five-hour cross-country meander to &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, one of South Africa’s most beautiful reserves. Although not the prettiest journey (Wimpy for lunch rather than the wine estates of the Cape), driving through the rural KwaZulu-Natal hinterland feels wonderfully intrepid, especially for little imaginations.

After whizzing through battlefield sites, 103

Ladysmith, and skirting around the border of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), we were welcomed into &Beyond Phinda by two cheetahs sauntering along the road. Phinda is a place like no other – seven eco-systems collide and plunge towards the Indian Ocean, where the world’s largest vegetated sanddunes fringe azure waters. The Mountain Lodge is the best for families, although we loved sleeping in the trees at Forest Lodge. &Beyond knows a thing or two about catering for families, and nothing is too much trouble – our ranger and tracker, Mr T and Dylan, still have hero status in our household.

The WILDchild programme whisks kids off to fish for catfish and study dung beetles, giving parents time and space to track white rhino, gaze at lion packs or head out scuba diving. Days here drift by in a whirlwind of exceptional wildlife and hospitality.

As heart-breaking as it is to leave, the time will come. Rather than going straight home, make a stop in Durban for the best curry in town at The Oyster Box. This beachside hotel is the city’s most iconic, and from the moment you lay eyes on the pool, the lighthouse, the ocean terrace, and the food, you’ll know why. If nothing else, it’s the ideal spot to breathe in the last of the Indian Ocean air and contemplate all that you’ve experienced in just a fraction of this vast country. L

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CITY SLICKERS SEEK OUT SOME OF THESE URBAN LEGENDS FOR A FAMILY HOLIDAY LIKE NO OTHER

PARIS

If you thought offerings for kids in the French capital revolved around Disneyland Paris, boy, are you in for a treat. Little ones will love strolling (or toddling) around the parks, and having a picnic in one of the many gardens.

For a spin on Paris’ oldest carousel, head to Jardin du Luxembourg, where there’s also puppet shows and pony rides. Museum-wise, Musée des Automates et de la Magie is filled with artefacts from the world of illusion, while at Musée Gourmaud du Chocolat, you can indulge in the world’s most-loved sweet.

Burn off all that sugar with a climb to SacréCoeur followed by a meal at nearby Jeanne B, where deli-style dishes are sure to be a hit.

WHERE TO STAY: Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg Situated on a quiet street in the heart of Paris haute couture, this hotel dazzles with gold-trimmed interiors and stunning flower arrangements. For smaller guests, expect complimentary children’s breakfasts, surprise treats and a half-price discount for families booking an interconnecting second room.

Rooms from £376 per night; sofitel-paris-lefaubourg.com

Kids will love counting the 300 steps to the top of Sacré-Coeur

MADRID

Filled with world-class museums, iconic parks and some of Europe’s best attractions, this Spanish metropolis is a treasure trove of thrilling family activities. Start by exploring Casa de Campo, a glorious green space with an amusement park and zoo, or take a stroll around Madrid Río, best known for its large play area. For an injection of culture, book a kids’ tour (acrossmadrid.com) around the Prado Museum, or ogle at Picasso’s works in Reina Sofia Museum, where there’s also summer workshops for families. Learning can be hungry work, so tuck into farm-fresh cuisine at Mama Campo in the north of the city, or for somewhere more central, give little ones a history lesson at Sobrino de Botin, the world’s oldest restaurant.

Madrid Rio park has 17 play areas for your little ones to explore

WHERE TO STAY: Gran Hotel Inglés Nestled within the capital’s most characterful neighbourhood, this uber-luxe bolthole is all about stylish comfort, laden with Art Deco features and quirky furnishings. Babysitting and activities for children can be arranged, and cots are available upon request. Families can also book a large room with an extra bed for no additional charge. Rooms from £250 per night; granhotelingles.com

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HEAD SiamRUNNING Park City is the place to go for some thrills and spills on the water slides

COOL KIDS IN THE CAPITAL

BANGKOK

As a child-friendly city break, this colourful Southeast Asian hotspot pretty much has it all. With its eclectic mix of weird and wonderful street food, theme parks and playgrounds, there’s something new to discover around every corner, and if you’re on a budget, Bangkok is one of the most affordable places for families to eat. Make the most of the tropical climate and head to Siam Park City, a water park where kids can splash, dive and ride down slides. Travelling during monsoon season? Stay inside at trampoline park Bounce Inc, or dig up dinosaur bones in the Children’s Discovery Museum. Round off your day at Hajime Robot Restaurant, a Japanese-style barbecue spot, where food is delivered to your table by a samurai robot.

All the essentials little tourists will need as they see the sights

WHERE TO STAY: Siam Kempinski Hotel This family-friendly oasis boasts 400 rooms and suites, with a garden area, four pools, and great access to the city centre. The kids’ club here is also Bangkok’s largest, and offers games, karaoke rooms and a kitchen where children can learn to cook. Cots, nannies and extra beds can be arranged, too. Rooms from £206 per night; kempinski.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK

BUDAPEST

Buda Castle is not to be missed

A city of two halves, divided by the River Danube, Hungary’s capital has something for everyone – kids, too! The city’s attractions will easily have you filling your day, but remember to save some time to walk around to take in the fantastic architecture from bridges and cathedrals to the stunning Buda Castle. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Gardens, which is one of the oldest zoos in the world, housing over 2,000 animals, and the same amount of plant species. The Iinteractive Science Museum has been designed with mini scientist in mind, while the Tropicarium is Central Europe’s largest saltwater aquarium. Kids will squeal with delight at the daily shark feeding show.

WHERE TO STAY: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Families can stay in their own palace at this hotel. Little guests will be greeted with childsized bathrobes, slippers and kids’ toiletries, plus freshly baked cookies and popcorn waiting in your room of choice. While adults will be pleased to hear that kids stay for free when sharing the same room. Rooms from ¤485 per night, fourseasons.com L

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KENZO CAP £38, MELIJOE.COM SUNGLASSES £30, UK.IZIPIZI.COM THE CITIES ACTIVITY BOOK £5.99, LONELYPLANET.COM SUN CREAM SPF 50+ £12, CHILDSFARM.COM TIBA + MARL BACKPACK £40, NATURALBABYSHOWER.CO.UK STELLA McCARTNEY TRAINERS £144, CHILDRENSALON.COM

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The Best of the

South West

IN NEED OF A PERFECT GETAWAY? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN DEVON AND CORNWALL, SAYS DEVON RESIDENT, BECKY DICKINSON, WHO CHECKS OUT FOUR OPTIONS FOR YOUNG FAMILIES.

F

or the quintessential break, without the hassle of airports and check-ins, but with mesmerising views and endless possibilities for fun and adventure, you can’t beat Devon and Cornwall. From the calm turquoise waters of the English Rivieria, to ancient fishing villages and winding coastal paths, to frothing waves and soft sandy beaches, the only difficulty is deciding where to go.

This beautiful corner of England is where memories are made and time stands still (well, at least for a week or two.) But while family holidays are one of the highlights of childhood, adults need a break, too. So if you’re looking for that elusive combination of fun and relaxation, combined with fantastic food and unrivalled luxury, the following four options have it all in (buckets and) spades.

Finding time to relax at the Thurlestone Hotel swimming pool is a must for adults

Thurlestone Hotel,

KINGSBRIDGE, DEVON

The South Hams region is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK. Our base for the weekend was the idyllic Thurlestone Hotel, where our room came with a sea-view balcony. Facilities included an indoor and outdoor pool, tennis courts, golf course, table tennis, badminton and a children’s playroom.

A family game of nine holes turned into a round of ‘hunt the ball’ but was loved by all.

The food in the evening in the stylish, yet child-friendly restaurant was exquisite, as was the breakfast buffet; everything from smashed avocado to smoked salmon and, of course, a full English. For the children, it was all about the DIY waffle station. thurlestone.co.uk 106

My little one, Anya, had a go at playing golf

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Fowey Hall,

FOWEY, CORNWALL

Daisy, Jonas and Anya were spoilt for choice at Fowey Hall

Situated on the South Cornish coast, Fowey Hall caters perfectly for children and parents.

Our jaws dropped as we entered the huge family suite overlooking the Fowey Estuary.

As we gazed over blazing rhododendrons and boats bobbing on the water, it was like looking into a postcard. This manor house turned luxury hotel has everything: a restaurant serving seasonal Cornish cuisine, a complimentary Ofsted-registered crèche, a listening service, family-friendly spa and heaps of places for kids to play. Fowey itself is a short, steep walk away, with shops and colourful cafés – and no shortage of pasties and ice creams. luxuryfamilyhotels.co.uk

Cary Arms & Spa,

BABBACOMBE, DEVON

There is nothing but ocean in front of the Cary Arms & Spa. This boutique de Savary hotel also offers a selection of self-catering cottages, as well as a glass-faceted, sea-facing spa. Our aptly named ‘Smuggler’s Cottage’ provided everything we needed, from board games to a children’s den, and a welcome hamper, including sticks of rock for the children and sloe gin for the grown-ups. The next morning, a hearty breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant The Inn on the Beach was followed by a walk along the South West Coast Path.

Five miles later, we returned to our cottage to catch out breath, before heading to the Inn for a feast of fish, veg and indulgent desserts.

It was just what we needed. caryarms.co.uk The Esplanade is a beachside hotel so the rooms have a sea view

The Esplanade Hotel,

There was no getting away from going in the water at Fistral Beach

NEWQUAY, CORNWALL

Newquay remains one of Britain’s favourite holiday destinations. We stayed at the Esplanade, a modern hotel, just a pebble’s throw from Fistral Beach. The hotel has a surf school and surf hire on site (plus buckets and spades for younger children), so there’s no excuse for not getting wet. Despite spending hours in the sea, the kids were still keen to try out the hotel’s pool and Jacuzzi, followed by the soft play area and outdoor pirate ship. We ate at Esplanade’s sea-view restaurant, and were later lured into the bar by the sound of live music, which meant there was no going to bed at a reasonable hour. When on holiday… esplanadehotelnewquay.co.uk L

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A EW! DIS NIMAL C BA OVERY

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FAIRIES S DISCO

& DRAGON

AN ENCHANTED TRAIL

WATERWARS SPLASH ZONE GIANT INDOOR PLAYBARN PANNING FOR GOLD

GIANT SANDPIT

Beautifully designed backpacks for boys and girls

GO-KARTS

LL/SUMMER2019

www.josephineandjoe.com

PONY RIDES

Open Mornings Wednesday 25th September Thursday 17th October

Reception Taster Afternoon Friday 4th October

Books for kids by kids

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Each book is carefully designed using your child’s artwork and words then published, bookshelf-ready and unique, like the budding young author who created it.

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WHAT’S ON

AG E N DA

MARTHA ALEX ANDER reveals what’s going on in the capital

MONSTERSAURUS !

Sunday 10 November Perfect for children of ages three to seven, this energetic show is full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem and will delight the whole family – with original music and plenty of audience participation! It is based on the book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort, and follows Monty, a young inventor with lots of whacky ideas, as he creates a host of incredible monsters and finds himself at a loss when it comes to what to do with them! Monster-ously good fun.

Admission: From £9.

Arts Depot, 5 Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, London N12 0GA artsdepot.co.uk

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Fun Palaces

KIDS WEEK

FUN PAL ACES

Thursday 1 to Saturday 30 August 10am to 4pm Kids Week is back with a bang, meaning for the whole of August, a child aged 16 or under can go to many theatre shows for free as long as they’re accompanied by a full paying adult. With musicals, plays, comedies and children’s shows in the line-up, many will also be holding special activities, including dance workshops and behind the scene tours.

Saturday 5 October, 10am to 4pm Part of a nationwide celebration of arts and culture, this is a day-long extravaganza of pop-up performances, art sessions, craft workshops and live music for all the family. You can join at any time and there will be plenty of tea and cake to keep everyone’s energy up!

Admission: Tickets vary.

Road, London E1 0ND

officiallondontheatre.com

halfmoon.org.uk

Admission: Free.

Half Moon Theatre, 43 White Horse

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WHAT’S ON

THE BIG DRAW Monday 21 October, 11am to 4pm This celebration of drawing is not to be missed. Throughout the day, a variety of drawingrelated activities will be on offer, allowing artists of any age to demonstrate their draftsmanship.

Admission: From £39.

Admission: From £6 (free for

babies under six months old).

Arts Depot, 5 Nether Street,

Chickenshed, Rayne Theatre,

Tally Ho Corner, London N12 0GA

290 Chase Side, London N14 4PE

artsdepot.co.uk

chickenshed.org.uk

CHISWICK BOOK FESTIVAL

CUT T Y SARK FLOTILL A

Thursday 12 to Monday 16 September Primarily an event for literary adults, there are some gems on offer for older children. A particularly inspiring highlight is seeing the winners of the Young People’s Poetry Competition.

Saturday 7 to Sunday 8 September, 11.30am to 1.30pm, and 2pm to 4pm For all budding ship builders.

Come and make your own tall vessel and decorate with poetry, to add to the flotilla beneath Cutty Sark.

PARLIAMENT WEEK

Various locations in W4

(Adult £13.50; child £6.75).

Tuesday 5 to Thursday 7 November Parliament Week at KidZania – London’s mini city for children – gives youngsters the chance to debate and discuss UK politics.

The KidZania Government will be out in full force and children will be able to vote on the city’s key issues, which include penalties for bullying.

chiswickbookfestival.net

Cutty Sark, King William Walk,

Sunday 8 September The work of Félix Vallotton, a Swiss artist, is laid bare in this special studio day. Children and adults can discuss how stories are told through art, and experiment with printmaking techniques.

THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW

Westfield London, Ariel Way,

Burlington House, Piccadilly,

Admission: Free.

London W12 7GA

Mayfair, London W1J 0BD

Various locations in The City

kidzania.co.uk

royalacademy.org.uk

lordmayorsshow.london

Admission: From £8.

Thursday 17 October to Saturday 2 November Little ones will be thrilled silly by the spooky goings on at LEGOLAND during Brick or Treat season. The main event is the chance to join Lord Vampyre at the new Haunted House Monster Party ride. On selected evenings, there will be firework displays (try the 3D glasses and see fireworks explode into thousands of LEGO bricks)!

Friday 6 September to 26 October A collection of interactive theatre shows for children from birth to six years old.

Admission: £4.

Lord Vampyre’s Brick or Treat

LORD VAMPYRE’S BRICK OR TREAT

TALES FROM THE SHED AUTUMN SEASON

Admission: Free with entry to the ship

London SE10 9HT

FAMILY STUDIO : PUT IT IN PRINT

Admission: From £19.

Admission: Free.

rmg.co.uk

Saturday 9 November, from 11am Watch the new Lord Mayor of the City of London pass through the streets of the capital in a glittering coach as part of a long procession steeped in history.

Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 4AY legoland.co.uk

THE SCARECROWS’ WEDDING

Saturday 7 September, 10am The family that raves together, stays together. At least that’s the motto at Raver Tots. This day rave boasts a drum-and-bass soundtrack for all of the family – including babies – to get down to, plus lots of multisensory toys and activities. Don’t worry, music is at a safe level for young ears.

Friday 20 September to Sunday 22 September Adapted for the stage from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book of the same name, The Scarecrows’ Wedding tells the tale of two lovestruck scarecrows whose wedding plans are put into jeopardy.

Scamp Theatre has created a magical show suitable for children aged three and over.

Boxpark Wembley, 18 Olympic Way,

Arts Depot, 5 Nether Street,

Wembley HA9 0JT

Tally Ho Corner, London N12 0GA

ravertots.co.uk

artsdepot.co.uk

RAVER TOTS

Admission: From £9.

The Scarecrows’ Wedding

Admission: From £9.

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WHAT’S ON

BRING YOUR OWN BABY COMEDY

TOTALLY THAMES Sunday 1 to Monday 30 September Celebrating all that is beautiful and good about the capital’s river, this month-long festival offers so much. The Ship of Tolerance, a floating boat sculpture by Ilya and Emilia Kabakov, features a 40ft mast from which hang the ship’s sails made by children from primary schools, refugee groups, hospitals and cultural organisations. There are also exhibitions on mudlarking and “the Barking stink”!

Wednesday 11 September, Wednesday 6 November, 11am to 12.15pm Perfect for parents always up for a laugh, this is a brilliant initiative which focuses on making comedy accessible to mums and dads of younger children. Billed as “a night out during the day”, the shows offer up thigh-slapping comedy but cater for small kids – think soft flooring, toys and lots of space for parking the buggy.

Admission: From £11.

Rumpelstiltskin

RUMPELSTILTSKIN

Admission: Free.

Clapham Picturehouse,

under six months old).

byobcomedy.com

totallythames.org

Chickenshed, Rayne Theatre, 290 Chase Side, London N14 4PE chickenshed.org.uk

ANANSI THE SPIDER Wednesday 18 September to Sunday 27 October These are the stories of a clever little spider, Anansi, who has long been considered the most intelligent creature on earth. The tales from West Africa and the Caribbean each celebrate Black History Month and bring this eight-legged trickster to life!

Half Moon Theatre, 43 White Horse Road, London E1 0ND halfmoon.org.uk

COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS

Arts Depot, 5 Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, London N12 0GA artsdepot.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: MANUEL-HARLA

HOOK AT THE LUNA Thursday 26 September This cinematic retelling of Peter Pan has enduring appeal – parents who loved it in the 1990s will take their offspring. With the late, great Robin Williams as an adult Pan, it is a comedy turn full of adventure and fun.

Admission: From £7.75.

Admission: From £6 (free for babies

Various locations across London

Admission: £7.

Admission: From £9.

Friday 6 September to Friday 18 October, 10am Especially for children up to three years old, these 45-minute sessions bring sensory learning and exploration to little ones – encouraging them to enjoy music and movement. This sort of play is perfect for developing communication skills and broadening vocabulary. Expect singing and dancing, plus there are lots of child-friendly facilities, including a lovely little café.

76 Venn Street, London SW4 0AT

Thursday 14 to Saturday 16 November Suitable for children aged four and older, this classic tale of an angry dwarf is retold via puppets, music, storytelling and an ever-changing set.

Sunday 20 October, 12 noon and 2.30pm Children aged six and over will be giggling with glee as they watch some of the best stand-ups in the world perform their acts (without the naughty bits).

PL ANET PL AY AUTUMN SEASON

Admission: From £10.

Unicorn Theatre, 147 Tooley Street,

R EVIEW: BY HENR IET TA EASTON

London SE1 2HZ

MATILDA

unicorntheatre.com

Tuesday to Sunday, confirmed performances until December 2020 Tim Minchin and Dennis Kelly’s musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Matilda is guaranteed to enchant parents and kids alike.

Matilda, a six-year old genius who loves to read Dickens, is the perfect heroine for a younger audience. She bravely battles her way through a series of nasty adults along with her gaggle of entertaining classmates. Kids will love the outrageously evil Miss Trunchball, whose punishments include laser beams, the dreaded ‘chokey’ and, in the case of Bruce Bogtrotter, a huge chocolate cake.

All of this is done in a whirlwind of sing-along songs, laughter and, because it wouldn’t be Dahl without it, a bit of magic.

Above all, the cast of kids are without a doubt the reason to watch; energetic, talented, funny Wicked Miss and sweet the young actors will Trunchball will make kids want to join in the fun. have kids giggling A brilliantly bolshie show that will suit any age, the ideal choice for a fun-filled family theatre trip!

Admission: Tickets from £15

DINO SNORES FOR KIDS Friday 20 September, Friday 12 October, Friday 16 November If you’ve ever wondered what night-time looks like inside a museum, you’re about to find out. Children are invited to set up camp in one of the museum’s galleries, before exploring the museum by torchlight and making dinosaur T-shirts in a special workshop. Lights out at midnight; then the following day, breakfast and more fun ensues before the museum opens again to the public.

Admission: £60.

Brockwell Lido, Dulwich Road,

Cambridge Theatre, 32-34 Earlham

The Natural History Museum,

London SE24 0PA

Street, London WC2H 9HU

Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD

thelunacinema.com

matildathemusical.com

nhm.ac.uk

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WHAT’S ON

Japan Matsuri

FUNHARMONICS : ZOG

GHOST SHIPS AND SPOOKY SHADOWS

CHISWICK HOUSE DOG SHOW

Sunday 27 October, 12pm The animation of Zog, based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s book, is set to be accompanied live by the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

Performing René Aubry’s score to a big screen projection of this film about a hapless trainee dragon, this is an unusual but delightful treat.

Saturday 5 to Sunday 6 October, 11am to 4pm Storyteller Olivia Armstrong invites youngsters to come on a wild adventure across the high seas, to lands far, far away. The tales are spellbinding, with the focus on ships and the dangers of the deep blue sea.

Sunday 22 September 2019, 11am to 4pm Be charmed by all the pooches at this dog show that has Chiswick House as its backdrop. With 18 classes, including Next Top Model and Waggiest Tail, any dog can enter – so you’ll see perfect pedigrees muzzle-bymuzzle with motley mutts.

Admission: From £6.

Cutty Sark, King William Walk,

Chiswick House Cricket Ground,

Royal Festival Hall, Southbank

London SE10 9HT

London W4 3ES

Centre, Belvedere Road,

rmg.co.uk

chiswickhousedogshow.org.uk

JAPAN MATSURI

London SE1 8XX

Sunday 29 September, 10am to 8pm London’s festival of Japanese culture sees people drawn together to celebrate the music, food, culture and traditions of Japan across two stages and plenty of stalls. There’ll be art from woodblocks to manga and the chance to try on a kimono.

southbankcentre.co.uk

Admission: Free.

Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DX japanmatsuri.com

Admission: Free with entry to the

Cutty Sark (Adult £13.50; child £6.75).

Admission: Free.

Chiswick House Dog Show

FIT FOR SPORT ACTIVIT Y CAMPS Thursday 27 June to Wednesday 4 September This year’s thrilling programme is filled with a whole host of sporting events, arts and crafts, and outdoor adventures, with special appearances from Team GB athletes and NFL players.

Admission: Prices vary depending on activity.

SINFONIA FAMILY CONCERT Saturday 5 October, 11.30am For children aged five to 11, this concert will showcase classical music’s most popular stories.

Children will get to meet the young musicians, find out about the instruments they play and even have a go themselves.

Various locations throughout London fitforsport.co.uk Pop Up Screens

Admission: From £4.

Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX southbanksinfonia.co.uk

POP UP SCREENS Sunday 14 September, 6pm The Greatest Showman has proved a runaway hit, so what better way to enjoy the movie than outside on a big screen in one of London’s loveliest parks? Just bring blankets and cushions.

Admission: From £8 for children, £12.50 for adults.

Ravenscourt Park, London W6 popupscreens.co.uk

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BOUTIQUES

LUNA & CURIOUS

CISSY WEARS

OLIVE LOVES ALFIE

Step through the doors of this boutique and be greeted by one of the three creatives behind the concept. The independent store focuses on giving a home to European made products of the finest craftsmanship. Here you’ll find Scandinavian-inspired childrenswear, leather shoes and sustainable wooden toys, as well as simple yet stylish womenswear, menswear and home goods. You’ll walk out with a piece for every member of the family!

Focused on creating a haven for stylish designs, the store combines childrenswear with essentials for the modern home.

Statement checked coats are paired with day-to-day basics, such as linen shirts, knitted sweaters and 100% cotton trousers.

From wooden amber teethers and sensory playsets, to earthenware ornaments and artisan chocolate, Cissy Wears caters to children and parents alike.

Not only is the childrenswear from Olive Loves Alfie good for little ones, it’s good for the planet, too! The brand uses sustainable and organic production methods to create quality garments intended to be passed down from one generation to the next. With playful patterns and earthy tones, they cater for children and grown-ups alike. Anything from this boutique is a guilt-free purchase.

24-26 Calvert Avenue, London E2 7JP lunaandcurious.com

210 Hither Green Lane, London SE13 6RT cissywears.com

84 Stoke Newington Church Street, London N16 0AP olivelovesalfie.co.uk

POCO KIDS

ALEX AND ALEXA

SCANDIBORN

This store stocks a carefully curated range of children’s brands, aiming to innovate the market by offering unisex, sustainable and fashion-forward designs. From birthday parties to playdates, you’ll be able to find an outfit for every occasion. Poco Kids also offers beautiful bamboo tableware and knitted toys that would make the perfect gift for a special young one in your life. Although based in Cambridge, the brand sells all over the world.

Home to more than 200 fashion, sportswear and toy brands from across the world, Alex and Alexa is one of the coolest online boutiques around. Founded more than a decade ago by husband-and-wife team Alex Theophanous and Alexa Till, the site remains dedicated to offering parents the world’s best kids’ brands at the click of a button. Look out for stylish collections from the likes of Adidas Originals, Billybandit and Stella McCartney Kids, Young Soles and many more.

Launching online in 2016, the familyrun online store is a one-stop-shop for Scandinavian-inspired designs. You’ll find everything from play equipment, furniture, clothing and home décor, with a dedicated section for mama, too. The creators are passionate about stylish children’s goods and aim to support independent business within the UK as well as internationally. Scandiborn is proud to look after the planet and sell sustainable, eco-conscious products.

alexandalexa.com

scandiborn.co.uk

20 Magdalene St, Cambridge CB3 0AF pocokids.com

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

113

RUNNING HEAD

THE BUSINESS Andrea Rembeck founder of

TUTU DU MONDE The designer talks about dress-making and celebrating the brand’s 10th anniversary I worked as a womenswear designer in Australia before becoming a mum in 2005, and as soon as my daughter was old enough, all she wanted to wear was ballerina and princess dresses. At that time, it was so hard to find anything that wasn’t cheaply made, so I started designing my own for her. Everyone kept commenting on how lovely they were, so I decided to go for it and launch my own

The Tutu du Monde dresses are designed with play and imagination in mind

label. Word spread after that, and we became an international business fairly early on.

How would you describe the brand?

The essence of Tutu Du Monde is to inspire little girls to dream and feel good about themselves. It’s about play and imagination, and that’s so important in childhood; the dresses are special, but they’re also designed to be played in. There’s a bit of that relaxed Australian vibe to the brand, but then there’s also superrefined details and beautiful beadwork, so it all balances out. The dresses are designed to be comfortable, too – all the garments are lined in cotton, the waists are elastic, and the straps are adjustable – as, having had my own daughter, I know they can be quite fussy when it comes to clothes!

What’s the best thing about your job?

I love sketching and designing the pieces – it is so therapeutic. Working in

childrenswear, generally, is just so much fun.

We’re really lucky to be a part of little girls’ lives in the way we are, and it’s rewarding to see how much joy we bring with our garments. I’m more in touch with customers than I was when I worked in womenswear, and we get so many lovely messages from people. Some parents even tell us that they can’t get their children to take the dresses off!

What inspires you?

One of the biggest inspirations when I first started was ballet, and though our tutus and dresses aren’t really ‘performance wear’, they do take inspiration from the vintage costumes worn in the Russian and French Ballet. With our AW19 collection, we looked at the styling of olde-worlde circuses, which we managed to reflect in the colours, as well as the richness and playfulness of that concept as a whole.

What’s in the pipeline?

This year we’re celebrating the brand’s 10th birthday, and we’ll be having a big party in LA, which is going to be circus-themed – just like the AW19 collection! After that, we have our SS20 collection, which celebrates the original essence of Tutu Du Monde. It’s going to be very free-spirited and playful, with a kind of bohemian-chic edge. Every collection always has a really strong theme, and all the campaigns express who we are as a brand. L tutudumonde.me.uk

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PHOTOGRAPHY: ELIZA LOGAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Tell us the story behind Tutu Du Monde.

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