CITY KIDS MAGAZINE WINTER 2015

FREE WHAT’S ON BOOKS EDUCATION STYLE ACTIVITIES

SUMMER 2015 ISSUE 5 FREE WINTER 2015 ISSUE 7

MEE T THE #KLOGGERS

THE RISE OF KID BLOGGERS

INTRODUCING

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WELCOME

O

ne of my good friends told me I should use this page to tell you more about myself. I’ve always shied away from this as I can’t imagine why you’d like to know more about me – you read the magazine to dicover what’s going on don’t you? However, she did prompt

some introspection and I discovered something about myself. Throughout my life I have set myself challenges, from deciding to take a degree in a language I had never studied before (without having a language A-level), to setting up a magazine in an industry I had never experienced. Each challenge has brought with it fear, excitement and experiences I will treasure.

As a neat segue, our Feature article meets kids who aren’t afraid to share their experiences of the world. Via blogging. They positively embrace the notion that there is a captive audience interested in what they have to say. Turn to p16 to Meet the #Kloggers. Our Winter issue also brings the exciting news that Sharky & George are joining the City Kids team! Awesome, cool, imaginative and achievable party ideas and tips will be coming your way each issue. We can’t wait!

Of course Christmas is on the agenda at this time of year and we have gift ideas galore in We Love plus an amazing giveaway in partnership with Westfield London (p23). We’ve got

PHOTOGRAPHY & STYLING Danielle Owen SHOOT CO-ORDINATION Sarah Lancaster MODEL Kitty Little Revolution Productions Info@thelittlerevolution.co.uk

excellent advice for parents ahead of the entrance exam season; a quick and easy dinner party menu from Jo Pratt; The Alternative Nativity as told by Beverley Turner; plus Style, Books and plenty of new events and activities to choose from. We’ve also some handy tips on how to make the most of a trip to the Panto.

Have a great Christmas and a very Merry New Year!

Victoria Evans

editor@citykidsmagazine.co.uk citykidsmagazine.co.uk citykidswest @citykidswest

HAT www.hucklebones.co.uk

To receive our newsletters, please sign up via our website at www.citykidsmagazine.co.uk

INDEX 04 WE LOVE 06 WHAT’S ON 14 TIPS PANTO VISIT 16 19 20 21 24 26 29 31 40 41 42

FEATURE MEET THE #KLOGGERS VIEW BEVERLEY TURNER STYLE PEOPLE SHARKY & GEORGE FOOD JO PRATT EDUCATION BOOKS DIRECTORY BABIES & PRE-SCHOOLERS / LITTLE KIDS / BIG KIDS DIRECTORY HOLIDAY CLUBS DIRECTORY PARTIES BOUTIQUE

CITY KIDS editor Victoria Evans designer Caroline Haye contributors Beverley Turner, Sharon Fried-Jones, Jo Pratt, Roxzann Weston, Lianne Kolirin, Nikki Ward, Rebekah Hall & Shirley Khan This publication may not be reproduced in whole or part by any means without prior consent of the publisher. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the content at the time of publication, the publishers shall not be held responsible in any way for any inaccuracies or omissions. The opinions of those expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or CITY KIDS LTD. © 2015 CITY KIDS LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

WE LOVE PUG LOVE JJ, My Jumpin’ Pug, is an interactive toy that jumps and barks just like a pet puppy when little hands pet his head or wave at him. Stroke his back and he says goodbye. £49.99 www.thetoyshop.com

TICKLED PINK Millie Pink hairbands are an absolute must for stockings. They come in a gazillion different patterns and colours, they’re soft and stretchy, and they also double up as super cool wristbands. Feeling Christmassy? Order Glitter Bombs and Cosmic Rudolphs. £7.50 for 5 www.milliepink.com

ADVENT ART The creatives behind Anorak Magazine have come up with a brilliant alternative to the usual calendar claptrap. 25 items to colour in, all for a mere £5. £53 www.anorakmagazine.com

FEEL THE FORCE

REINDEER RUMPUS £20 www.mothercare.com

The BB-8 is one of this year’s hottest toys. This app-enabled droid comes complete with a unique personality that develops over time with the ability to create and view holographic recordings. £129.95 www.disneystore.co.uk

Keep the little ones active with ELC’s Hop Along Reindeer.

Toddlers can climb up and bounce up and down, holding onto the antlers for support.

04 CITY CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK KIDS

WE LOVE

ALL THAT GLITTERS Chiswick mum Ayesha Mizra is launching new fashion line Little Wardrobe London next year, but get ahead of the game with this gold sequined jacket from her Christmas capsule collection. Influenced by fables and fairytales, this is the best of British, designed and made in the UK from top quality fabrics. 4-10 yrs.

£112 www.littlewardrobelondon.co.uk

SPIN IT, DJ Designed to look like the grill of an automobile and easily transportable, this retro-inspired, the Crosely Collegiate turntable plays your favourite vinyl records, connects to a USB port and includes software to preserve records. £120 www.debenhams.com

PLAYDOH DA VINCI-STYLE Play-Doh reaches new dimensions with the DohVinci Spotlight Spin Studio with its design and display turntable. Lights project different colours to create 3D masterpieces or make for a spectacular show.

Recommended 6-11 years £26.99 www.argos.co.uk

FEATHERED FRIENDS Animal lovers won’t be able to contain their excitement with this Clever Keet. Teach him to speak and he will talk, sing, dance and swing on his perch. He’ll also respond to your voice and drive his very own cart. One for the youngsters, though my nine year old will love it too.

£60 www.hamleys.com

KID PROOF KINDLE Great for reading books, streaming videos, apps and games, the Amazon Fire Kids Edition is designed for durability. Added bells include a two-year guarantee and a one-year subscription to Kids Unlimited at no extra cost £99.95 www.johnlewis.com CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 05

December shows Now

Now

Now

THE SNOWMAN

THE TABLE OF DELIGHT

The Peacock

Print Room at the Coronet, Notting Hill Gate

Another stylish production from Tom Wells. Expect glittery Converse and an alternative take on the traditional panto.

Until 3 January. 6yrs+

from

1

The Snowman returns for another wonderful year at the Peacock Theatre.

It’s Christmas Eve and a snowman has come to life. Together with a young boy, he sets off on a night-time quest for adventure. All ages.

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

©WWT

www.lyric.co.uk

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

www.peacocktheatre.com

1 to 24

A participatory picnic for children, The Table of Delights is an interactive theatrical tasting in five acts: an enthralling journey of food tales from field to plate. Expect bite-sized treats rather than a full-scale meal. Until 13.

from

2

PENGUIN! ELEPHANT! Chelsea Theatre

With original songs, physical comedy and dance, Penguin! Elephant! is a magical new show about celebrating differences for anyone who has ever waddled like a Penguin or stomped like an Elephant. Age 3+.

Rose Theatre, Kingston www.rosetheatrekingston.org Dickens’ classic tale sees Scrooge propelled on a helter-skelter, supernatural ride through Christmases past, present and future. Until 3 January.

5

The zany world of Dr Seuss brought to life through the moustachioed and cantankerous creature The Lorax.

Until 16 January.

20

SLAVA’S SNOWSHOW

New Wimbledon Theatre

Royal Festival Hall

www.atgtickets.com

www.southbankcentre.co.uk

06 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

www.oldvictheatre.com

16

PETER PAN

The New Wimbledon Theatre plays host to the child who never grew up, his lost boys and indeed the whole of Neverland.

The adored fairy tale comes to life starring Verne Troyer, aka Austin Powers’ Mini-Me.

The Old Vic

The wonderful Slava’s Snowshow is back on the South Bank this winter.

Russian performer Slava Polunin and his company has taken clowning out of the world of circus and produced a stunning spectacle. Age 8+.

PADDINGTON BEAR’S FIRST CONCERT Cadogan Hall, Chelsea www.cadoganhall.com Simon Callow and Richard E Grant narrate Paddington’s journey from his first meeting with the Brown family, right up to his debut as a conductor at the Royal Albert Hall. Music is provided by the Mozart Symphony Orchestra. ©

from

Photo by Vladimir Mishukov

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

www.chelseatheatre.org.uk

Christmas 2015

Kipper’s Snowy Day Watermans presents

meet santa & his huskies 5 - 6 December

NEWKEY

Based on the Kipper books by Mick Inkpen

DON S RIDE

For ages 3-8 yrs Book now!

At Watermans’ theatre in Brentford Saturday 5 December – Wednesday 23 December

wwt.org.uk/london Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, SW13 9WT info.london@wwt.org.uk 020 8409 4400

Book online / www.watermans.org.uk Box office / 020 8232 1010

Xmas 118x93 AW London.indd 1

22/10/2015 23:21

New Dance Ventures

CONTEMPORARY FOUNDATIONS for 8–12s Dynamic, fun, lively classes, with an emphasis on improvisation and choreography, led by established contemporary dance teacher, Kate Scott.

Contemporary Foundations delivers an inspiring introduction to this freeflowing, creative dance style, whilst building strong technical skills. £120 per term (12 week course), Wednesdays, 4.30-5.30pm youth dance ventures

CONTEMPORARY FOUNDATIONS sessions held at: The Friendship Club, Oxford Road North, London, W4 4DN and YOUTH DANCE VENTURES sessions held at: Grove Park Studios, 188-192 Sutton Court Road, W4 3HR

07766 816308 | info@newdanceventures.com newdanceventures.com

What’s on

December

Now Hyde Park

Now

Now

ADVENTURE TO SANTA’S GROTTO

WINTERVILLE Victoria Park, Hackney www.winterville.co.uk

Once again, Hyde Park is going to be covered in white for the transformation into Winter Wonderland. Besides the rides, stalls and eateries, highlights include an ice rink, the Giant Observation Wheel and Zippos Christmas Circus. All ages.

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

A DreamWorks DreamPlace brings Shrek and Donkey to life as they lead each child through the skies to Santa’s workshop at the North Pole. Limited bookings available.

Rose Theatre, Kingston www.rosetheatrekingston.org The alternative destination this festive season. There’s loads for grown-ups and little ones too, including live music, an ice rink, panto, circus, rides and even a rave for kids. All ages. Until 23.

5

5&6

10 & 11

GREAT CHRISTMAS PUDDING RACE

MEET SANTA

SHOP UP

Covent Garden

WWT London Wetland Centre

Chelsea Town Hall

www.wwt.org.uk

www.theshopup.com

Raising cash for Cancer Research UK, see who can get across the line first without dropping their puddings.

Hop aboard a husky sleigh ride to visit Santa in his grotto.

10 to 13

19

BRICK 2015

FAMILY GHOST TOURS

ExCel, London

Hampton Court Palace

www.brickshowslive.com

www.hrp.org.uk

© Theatre Alibi

www.xmaspuddingrace.org.uk

Leading online boutique Babyccino Kids brings you a Christmas shopping event with over 40 independent brands under one roof.

27

STRICTLY WINTER BALLROOM Royal Festival Hall www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Visit the UK’s largest Lego exhibition alongside fan displays, brick Minecraft, world records and video games.

08 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

©

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

Westfield, London

Discover terrifying tales, brought to life in the atmospheric palace after nightfall.

When all of the visitors have gone home, the tours conjure up supernatural stories spanning five centuries of royal tragedy and drama. 8-14yrs

Dance workshop with live music for all the family. No dance experience necessary.

gltc.co.uk B E S T C H I L D R E N ’ S R E TA I L E R 2 0 15

Everything we make, makes a happy home Exclusive introductory offer 20% off all orders over £60 ends midnight 21st December!

ENTER ‘CITYKIDS20’ IN YOUR BASKET AT GLTC.CO.UK

BRILLIANT BEDS, SMART STORAGE AND BEAUTIFUL CHILDREN’S TOYS

January Now

THE RAILWAY CHILDREN

NUTCRACKER

King’s Cross Theatre

London Coliseum, Charing Cross

Somerset House

www.railwaychildrenlondon.com

www.ballet.org.uk/nutcracker

www.somersethouse.org.uk

There’s still time to see this wonderful production of Tchaikovsky’s Christmas classic as Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker doll discover a magical world. Until 10.

8

14 to 17

DINO SNORES

LUMIÈRE LONDON

Natural History Museum

King’s Cross & West End

www.nhm.ac.uk

www.visitlondon.com/lumiere

You’ve seen the movie, now have a go if you dare! Spend the night at the Natural History Museum in this month’s Dino Snores. From 6.45pm. Age 7-11.

17

THE GARDENING CLUB

Unicorn Theatre

18

31

LITTLE FEET:

www.britishmuseum.org

The British Museum

www.hrp.org.uk

©

15 to 31

Explore the ground and all its wriggling inhabitants in this quirky dance show for young children. Grass uses performance, puppetry and projection to inspire children to look closely at the world around them. Age 4+.

Hampton Court Palace

10 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Take a glide on London’s most scenic ice skating rink at Somerset House. The training rink provides a safe environment for young children to take their first steps on the ice using fun polar bear stabilisers.

Polar Bear Club is for age 4-8. Until 10.

See London lit up in all its glory.

International artists illuminate King’s Cross and the West End with 3D projections, interactive installations and other extraordinary light works. All ages.

CELTIC ARTIST WORKSHOP

gardeningclub@roofgardens.virgin.com

SKATE

www.unicorntheatre.com

WITH THE SKINNY JEAN GARDENERS

Regulars on Blue Peter, the Skinny Jean Gardeners are offering tips and tricks to kids with green fingers at Kensington Roof Gardens’ Gardening Club.

Includes a tour of the gardens, 9ammidday. Age 7+ Reserve by email:

Now

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

See the Olivier Award-winning adaptation of E. Nesbit’s classic novel in a purpose built 1,000-seat theatre, complete with a railway track, platforms and an actual steam train. Until 3. Age 5+.

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

Now

Photography: Janet Echelman

© The Trustees of NHM, London

Colin Hutton Anthony Robling © Hartswood Films

What’s on

Explore Celtic art and make your own Celtic masterpiece. Free to drop in for under-5s from 10.30am until midday.

MUSEUM DROP-IN AT FULHAM PALACE Fulham Palace www.fulhampalace.org During this Stone Age themed family drop-in, try on period costume, handle artefacts and learn about the history of Fulham Palace. Free and no booking necessary.

On track for the perfect Christmas 2015.154_M_Christmas retail advertising_Wooden train set_City kids.indd 1

09/11/2015 14:52

February

Now

THE PAPER DOLLS

Royal Albert Hall

Polka Theatre

www.royalalberthall.com

www.polkatheatre.com

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL AMALUNA

Never been seen in the UK before, Cirque du Soleil’s Amaluna contains everything the company is famous for: astonishing acrobatics, aerial acts, lighting and set design. Runs until Sunday 14 February.

Age 5+.

6

Adapted from the best-selling book by Julia Donaldson, this gentle story follows a little girl and her string of paper dolls on a fantastical adventure. Age 3-6. Runs until March 13.

From

6

MINI VAULT FESTIVAL

ORCHID FESTIVAL

The Vaults, Leake St, Waterloo

Kew Gardens

www.vaultfestival.com

www.kew.org

MIME FESTIVAL HE WHO FALLS Barbican Theatre www.mimelondon.com This child-friendly show is part of the capital’s annual mime festival. Six performers appear to defy the laws of gravity, responding with strength and grace to maintain balance onboard a constantly shifting platform. Age 8+.

10 to 21 IMAGINE CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL Stouthbank Centre www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Big Fish Little Fish are staging a buzzing launch party for this year’s Mini Vault Festival. Besides a great DJ, you can expect theatre, workshops, storytelling and arts and crafts. All ages.

14

CHINESE NEW YEAR

RBG Kew

© The Trustees of NHM, London

3 to 6

Now

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

What’s on

A range of family activities will be on offer as part of Kew Gardens’ spectacular Orchid Festival. Runs until March 6. All ages.

16 to 20

The wonderful Imagine Festival returns with a range of theatre, music, dance, film, comedy and more.

Highlights include Roald Dahl’s The Minpins.

Children’s

24 to 28

Trafalgar Square and China Town www.chinatownlondon.org

Rose Theatre Kingston www.rosetheatrekingston.org

Lyric Hammersmith

©

www.lyric.co.uk Celebrate Chinese New Year of the Monkey in a blaze of colour. London’s festivities offer revellers a feast of Chinese culture.

12 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

The story about a little boy with a very big dream. A spellbinding show with music, puppetry and high-energy storytelling. Age 3-7.

Join Jacqueline Wilson’s Hetty Feather in her escape from the Foundling Hospital, as she discovers the squirrel house and Tanglefields Travelling Circus, then finds her real mother. Age 7+.

THE CHISWICK POP UP

SATURDAY 5TH DECEMBER 11AM TO 5PM Shop with local small businesses Homewares, gifts, baby & kids, jewellery, toys, decorations, textiles, food & more!

CLUB WORKSPACE BARLEY MOW PASSAGE W4 4PH www.thechiswickpopup.co.uk @ChiswickPopUp

TheChiswickPopUp

10 tips for... a perfect Panto visit With the pantomime season in full swing, how do you ensure a fun, tear-free theatre trip?

1.

Be Best Friends with the Box Office - Book early and reserve aisle seats. These are perfect for quick access out if an impromptu loo break or walkabout is required.

2.

Big Hats and Heads - Other members of the audience blocking sight-lines can affect concentration levels. Before your visit, check whether the theatre has booster seats. If not, take a cushion.

3.

6.

7.

Make Some Noise - Panto performers thrive on the audience’s reaction. Loud responses are actively encouraged. As CBeebies and CITV star Chris Jarvis explains: “Pantomime is my kind of event. Live, lively and interactive. There aren’t many shows where the audience are encouraged to be so involved. As a performer I just love encouraging kids to join in, sing along and shout out!”

8.

Keep It Going - Continue the excitement during the interval. This is an ideal time for fun investigations. Stroll over to the band pit and have a look (from far!) at all the musical instruments. Most theatres also have games and activity ideas in their programmes to maintain interest.

9.

Relax if they are Restless - If you feel your child needs a little time out, call an usher. Front of House staff will be happy to accompany and escort you to the appropriate area. Don’t worry about asking for their assistance.

Baddies Never Win - Discuss the characters beforehand.

Reassure your little ones that the villains will never get too scary and the goodies are always around.

4. Vary the Volume - Explain that the stage will be dark and the show may be loud in some parts. Many local venues, including Richmond Theatre, have headphones that little ones can wear if the noise is too loud.

5.

Richmond Theatre

Richmond Theatre

Chris Jarvis in ‘Cinderella’ at Richmond Theatre

Nikki Ward, ex-actress and Creative Learning Manager at Richmond Theatre, shares some helpful hints.

Timing is Everything - Afternoon matinées are perfect for young children. Have lunch beforehand then check running times when you arrive. This information will help you determine whether your child will need a break before the interval starts.

Save Your Time - Pre-order drinks for the interval. Pay by cash instead of card for merchandise as it can be quicker.

If you plan on buying snacks, venues often, have an exclusive auditorium service — ice cream delivered at the press of a button to your seats on demand!

14 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

10. Have Fabulous Festive Fun - Going to a pantomime can be exciting, wonderful and magical. A perfect present for the whole family to enjoy. Chris Jarvis sums up the whole experience beautifully: “Panto is something I’m hooked on. I’ve been in dozens and ‘Cinderella’ at Richmond Theatre this year is the thirteenth one I’ve directed. So do go along and be part of the fun. Whatever your age, pantos make you happy and exceptionally Christmassy.

Oh yes they do!” w w w.atgtickets.com

Little Rugby Chiswick www.littlerugby.co.uk

Feeding young imaginations through sport Fun filled rugby classes for Boys & Girls - 18 months to 7th birthday catch, weave, chase, run

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FEATURE

MEET

THE #KLOGGERS… The rise in blogging over the last few years has seen a new trend emerge, that of the kid blogger or #klogger.

Victoria Evans follows the amazing world of one of them.

Arabella Daho at Monsoon

L

ike it or not, the Internet and social media is now an integral

Luckily for Arabella, her mum, Shadia, is a dab hand when it comes

part of most kids’ lives. Kids are connected, and they know

to blogging, vlogging and social media networking. Between her

a lot more about it than we do. Social media is not “limited” to

and other family members the Dahos have an incredible 800k

Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, OoVoo, WhatsApp,

followers worldwide. Their combined knowledge means Arabella

Burn Note, Yik Yak, Meet Me, Tumblr, Vine — you get the message

is not flying blind.

— there’s a legion of child bloggers making waves in a market once ruled by people two or three times their age.

“When she’s out blogging I go with her. We were at London Fashion Week and I wouldn’t feel comfortable about her going

Introducing ‘Amazing Arabella’ Daho, from North London. A

with anybody else. I monitor everything, and if she gets a load

fashion, beauty and travel blogger who has already met Kelly

of followers I go through them all. It’s been ok. Generally it’s

Hoppen, been invited to London Fashion Week, modelled for

positive.”

Monsoon and Burberry and been sent on trips abroad to blog about her experiences. She has collected a following of over

We all have countless questions crashing around in our heads

26,000 across social media; she only started her blog in September.

when it comes to social media and our kids. Can our children blog

Oh, and she’s 11.

“safely” (what does safely even mean in this context?), will they be bullied, isn’t the web a hunting ground for paedophiles, is my

“I started modelling when I was three, and as I got older my

son/daughter going to share pictures of themselves? Basically, we

friends were asking me what I had been doing so I decided to start

don’t know what the social norms for this relatively new medium

writing about it … and they told me it was really good so I turned

are — are there any?

it into a blog.”

16 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Can our children blog “safely”, will they be bullied, isn’t the web a hunting ground for paedophiles...?

FEATURE Joanne

Mallon

founded

Kidsblogclub.com when both her

“We get approached by

children started blogging. Her

a lot of brands because

site now promotes creative child

she’s unique in what she

bloggers and offers advice to

does. We don’t just work

parents and their kids alike.

with anyone because, in the end, you’ve got to be

“[Blogging’s] like anything else -

truthful. What you say

as safe or unsafe as you want it

can be very powerful.

to be. We encourage children to think about personal safety and

Working with brands that

how much information they want to give away. Do they want to

you can relate to, that’s the

blog anonymously, under an assumed name? How much info do

way forward. You need it

they want to give out about where they live? Will they be sharing

to be truthful, and if it’s

pictures of themselves? All of this stuff has to be discussed with

artificial, no one’s going to

parents. From a practical point of view, when it comes to blogging,

read it anyway.”

Arabella Daho with Kelly Hoppen

both Google and Wordpress have it as part of their terms of service that users have to be over 13. So if an under 13 is blogging,

Many bloggers now have agents and earn enough money to

they will effectively have to do it in conjunction with a parent,

support a back up team of publicists and admin staff. If this

which is probably a good thing.”

is what you want to do, Shadia recommends you find a good management company first. In fact, she’ll be casting 10 adults and

Like with most things related to social media and generally the

10 kid bloggers for her new company, Blogaholics. And, there’s no

internet, as a parent it pays to stay informed so you know how

doubt that Arabella will be on hand to offer advice and tips to the

to set limits and have genuine dialogues with your kids about it.

kids that are chosen.

Mallon has found that blogging is widely used and approved of

So what’s next in the diary for Arabella (and her lucky friends)?

by schools as it is a method of encouraging children’s literacy and

Only a trip to Hogwarts, teaming up with Virgin to blog about

creativity. This stands to reason, and Arabella and Shadia would

their Experience Days, working on the Xfactor …

agree with the benefits.

“I think it’s made me more confident — it’s helping with my school work.” Shadia: “Her English has got a lot better. She manages her schoolwork really well, and the things that she’s learning about and writing about have opened up a whole new world.”

Which brings us to blogging as a business. Bloggers, in the main, start out because they have something different to say, which might resonate with their contemporaries. A point not lost on big brands that see bloggers as a direct connection to their potential markets. Arabella is at an advantage here, as a young, fashionconscious tween, with a ready-made audience. But Shadia is keen to stress that the integrity of the blog must never be forgotten.

{

BLOGS & RESOURCES www.amazingarabella.com

BOYS BLOG TOO Tom, Project Indigo: Dr Who fan www.anadventurethroughtimeandspace.com

3 Top Tips for Starting a Blog 1. Choose to write about something you are good at or are really, really interested in because it will be hard for you to keep your blog up if you don’t know what you are writing about.

2. Don’t start a blog because you want to be famous - that is not what blogging is about. I love blogging because I love sharing my adventures and have made lots of friends.

3. Keep at it! If you don’t post for a while your followers may lose interest.

www.jakes-bones.com - 13 year old bone collector www.foodpenelope.co.vu - 10 year old food lover www.kidsblogclub.com www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping-children-safe/online-safety www.safetynetkids.org.uk/personal-safety/staying-safe-online CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 17

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15/10/2015 13:32

VIEW

Beverley Turner on

THE ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS Mary (“Mazzer” to her mates) and Joe stared at

curtain; terrified dads-to-be pleaded for help;

the pregnancy test. “That’s impossible,” she said,

a midwife sprinted down the corridor and

straining to remember the drunken shenanigans

disappeared behind a swinging door. The

of that weekend at Babington House.

reception area was bare but for a family size tub of Quality Street. There was simply no room.

Earlier in the week, her weirdly psychic friend

Joe knocked on the staff room door. A kind male

Gabe had raised an eyebrow at her growing

midwife, noticing how tired and heavy Mary

cleavage. “Do you think?” Mary had replied, “We

was, took her notes and led her to the triage area

can’t even afford an over-priced flat and Joe’s

where women in pain laboured alone, behind

driving a clapped out old donkey of a car. If I’m

flimsy curtains.

pregnant, it had better be the son of God.” Eventually, a midwife in a Santa hat told Mary she needed an internal examination so that her

Time flew by. Mary grew to believe she was

progress could be written on their white-board

indeed with child and Joe busied himself with his bespoke joinery business, (there was barely an alcove in West London

timetable. She was sorry, it was Christmas. They were under-staffed.

that didn’t boast his beveled edges).

There was no anaesthetist available and she’d have to manage on her own for a while. Mary loved Joseph but she needed more support

“You have to be kidding me,” said Mary when the midwife calculated

than just him and the gambolling lambs on the wallpaper. “Where

that she was due one week before Christmas. Joe patted her knee and

is the f***ing midwife? We’re all alone!” Mary yelled, terrified as her

told her not to worry, he’d take care of everything and at least the

boy-child arrived.

hospital would be quiet then. But as her 40-week date approached, Mary got nervous, “I haven’t met the same midwife twice and I’ve just

“Bloody austerity cuts,” the midwife lamented as she clamped the

read that NHS hospitals are massively under-staffed at weekends -

cord. “We’re over-run. I’m afraid there isn’t even a crib - for a bed.”

what the hell must they be like at Christmas?!”

Mary lay down her son’s sweet head on her own hay-coloured blanket.

Another midwife signed her up for an automatic induction. She didn’t discuss it with Mary; merely informed her it was in the diary

Mary’s three best friends, who ran a Merino Wool Farm in Portugal,

at an ante-natal check-up. But Mary, who rather liked to be in control

were awoken by a bright, white light: a text message from Mary.

asked, “If I’m ok and baby is ok then why are we rushing?” The

They rejoiced and jumped on the first plane over. Joe’s best mate, a

midwife rolled her eyes. These women who challenged the protocols

brain-surgeon and lecturer (known by his mates as “The Wise One”)

were so annoying.

was awoken by the same bright light. He arrived the next day with the latest White Company candle: scent of Frankincense and Myrrh

It was Joe’s idea to spend Christmas with his parents in Berkshire. It

(wrapped in gold paper). “Glory to God in the highest heaven!” he

was only a short drive back to West London and the roads would be

enthused upon seeing his new godson.

quiet he enthused. And so it was that, at 1am on Christmas Day, Mary found herself in a blue dressing gown, gripping the passenger door as

Within 24 hours the new, sleep-deprived family were sent home. A

Joe careered across the bumpy country roads.

midwife would come and see them the next day – as long as she had time.

“I … Could … Kill … You,” she growled through gritted teeth, punching the postcode of the local hospital into the satnav.

Mary received an apology for birthing alone from the Supervisor of

“No room here,” shooed a midwife, “Go back to London!”

Midwives, “Although all that really matters is that you have a healthy

Scared, uncomfortable and cursing the knackered old car, Mary

baby,” she said, laughing as they left, “You women today don’t know

prayed to a God she didn’t normally believe in the entire length of the

how lucky you are to have hospitals to give birth in…not like in Jesus’s

M4. But on arrival at the unfamiliar hospital, the adrenalin kicked in

day!” But Mary wasn’t sure – in her opinion, far too little had changed

and her contractions stopped. Wails emitted from behind every

for the better.

Beverley Turner runs www.thebloomingbunch.co.uk and hosts Sunday Mornings on LBC Radio at 10am.

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 19

STYLE

Winter is coming, time to snuggle up with our cubs and build a cosy little hollow. Oeuf brown fox

ear hat £28.70 www.alexandalexa.com

Fox bobble hat £6.99 & scarf £7.99 - www.zara.com

s r e e r m t r n W i a o o W l l y W Barbour fox fairisle jumper £49.95 www.johnlewis.com

Animal fuzzy fox socks £10 www.animal.co.uk

Aroma home fox ear muffs £15 www.johnlewis.com

Fox eyelash jumper £16 www.marksandspencer.com

2015 autumnal animal prints are big right now, with our british born Mr Fox being the most popular children’s fashion trend...

Joule stripe fox babygrow £25 www.next.com

Cream fox fairilse jumper £50 www.petit-bateau.co.uk Fox jumper £22 - www.johnlewis.com Little fox knit hat £8.99 & mittens £7.99 www.zara.com Catimini fox and spot tights £22 www.alexandalexa.com

Barts fox nylon 3d water mittens £19 www.alexandalexa.com

ROXZANN WESTON CHILDREN’S STYLIST www.roxzannweston.com 20 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PEOPLE

SHARKY & GEORGE WRAP PAR TIE S F OR THE LIKE S OF C RE SSIDA C OWELL, WORLD REC ORDS, A ND PARAC HUTING SMA LL B OYS — A LL IN A DAY’S PAR T Y PLA NNING F OR C HARLIE “SHARKY” ASTOR A ND GEORGE WHI TEF IELD.

About amazing parties About finding party hosts Charlie: We did one this C: We started off with one person summer, which was about and then they told friends. It’s books and literature. It was often people in acting or music mega! and they’ll recommend people George: We created five different they think will be good. worlds – Neverland: with tricks, G: There’s always at least two potions and smoke bombs; people on every party, whatever Narnia: with access through it is, even if there are only 10 a cupboard door, a big snow children there and theoretically a machine, and lots of snowball leader could run a party on their George Whitefield (left) & Charlie Astor fights and ice sculpting. The own so the second person is there other worlds were Charlie and the to help out and be enthusiastic. We Chocolate Factory, Alice in Wonderland and Harry Potter. We won’t let anyone lead a party until they’ve done about 100 parties. told the children they were going to play quidditch, so they had So we don’t just meet someone, train them and leave them to do to keep an eye out for the golden snitch. When the golden snitch it. We’re pretty over cautious about making sure they’re really came out, they had to wrestle him down. To finish off, everyone good people, really fun and they really get it. came through to a Mad Hatters Tea Party, which was awesome!

About childhood party memories About saying no C: Mine were pretty bog standard. Very much bouncy castle and C: I don’t think we’ve ever said no. George is awful at saying no. traditional party games. There was always an entertainer.

The only thing I can think of was when a father wanted his son G: My eighth birthday was different as my dad is a chocolate to parachute into his party, but that was on a health and safety maker. I was allowed to invite about 15 friends to the factory and grounds. The boy was eight or nine so we put him in a gyrocopter Dad took us around. We took things off the machines as they instead. went past, which was really cool. At the end, everyone was given G: I say yes to everything and get into a lot of trouble with the a plastic ice cream tub and pointed to a tap; we filled it all the way team when, on a weekend that is clearly full, I say, “Of course we up with chocolate to take home. can do that … In Scotland? No problem. 50 children. Great!”

About an ideal Christmas About getting involved G:This one will be it. It’s my parent’s 50th wedding anniversary G: We don’t normally do much dressing up, character stuff. We’re and they’re taking all of us to a hotel in Dorset, right on the more like two older brothers who turn up and do a couple of beach. Top of the list is a swim in the sea on Christmas Day and hours of really active games. We’re planning bigger and bigger a lot of eating. parties such as big laser missions which we’ve developed for C: I’ve just married a New Yorker so I’m going to New York for slightly older children. We are also doing more corporate work, Christmas. Bit worried about the lack of Coleman’s bread sauce so we’re more involved in party development. so I’m taking some packets in my suitcase.

About their skills G: I’m not sure either of us could claim to have a specific skillset at all!

C: Imagination and immaturity is probably our main skillset, and continuing to enjoy it.

About New Year’s resolutions C: No chocolate?

G: Mine last year was to say “no” at work; I think it worked alright for the first month or so.

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 21

PEOPLE

About 2016 C: We’ve launched Partner in Crime, which is our word for nanny.

G: This initiative was born from our clients ringing up to ask whether Tom, “who did our party last month”, was free to join them on holiday for a week to just do cool stuff. Or both parents are at work and the nanny’s ill, could he take the kids skateboarding.

C: We have all these guys who are trained to do awesome parties. We know they’re fantastic with children, and we know that they’re responsible, cool and fun.

About party tricks G: I don’t really do tricks.

C: Speak for yourself! I can walk over you on my hands, which I’ll demonstrate later … George and I used to have a sort of breakdance routine.

G: We used to do quite a lot of fire spinning and fire poi. We did have quite a few hair on fire moments.

C: I’ve never quite grown up – I like doing back flips.

Normally into water. I didn’t want to get this out, but a journalist did ask what my party trick was … [shows a video on his phone of himself doing a back flip on a trampoline].

About World Records [Charlie once held the record for the fastest pantomime horse] C: Some annoying Commonwealth Games runner beat it – I refused to read about it.

G: We broke one this past summer for the biggest game of stuck in the mud. We broke the record with 472 people playing at Thomas’s Fulham, so that was fun.

We’re delighted to announce that Sharkey & George have joined the City Kids Magazine team and will be providing a wealth of party planning experience in forthcoming issues.

Awesome!

22 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

COMPETITION

This Christmas, you and your family

can be whisked away on an incredible interactive adventure at Westfield London.

Shrek and Donkey will guide each child on a magical journey through the skies to Santa’s workshop at the North Pole.

C i t y K i ds M ag azi ne has teamed up w i t h West fi eld L on do n fo r an a mazi ng gi veaway !

FOR A CHRISTMAS BEFORE CHRISTMAS 1 FAMILY SESSION TO THE NEW

GROTTO

+

1 FAMILY ICE SKATING SESSION To be in the draw: 1. Email editor@citykidsmagazine.co.uk with Westfield in the subject line 2. Sign up to the newsletter at Citykidsmagazine.co.uk

Terms & Conditions Family ticket for the grotto and ice-skating consists of 4 tickets. Subject to availability. Non-transferable. No cash alternative. Additional expenses are the responsibility of the prize winner. Not for resale. UK based entrants only. Closing date 30th November 2015.

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 23

FOOD BY JO PRATT

HEALTHY DINNER PARTIES Jo Pratt shares an indulgent yet guilt-free menu It’s party season and in all likelihood you’ll be having people over for dinner in the run up to Christmas and beyond. If, however, deciding what to cook puts you in a spin then the best thing to do is pick a theme, era or current trend to base your menu on. So, how about your next dinner party menu is a healthy one? Yes, you read right and don’t

DAIRY-FREE VANILLA AND BLUEBERRY CHEESECAKE Antioxidant-rich blueberries are a classic baked cheesecake topping however other fruits can work equally as well such as blackberries or raspberries, or stewed plums or rhubarb.

SERVES 8 PREPARATION TIME 20 minutes, plus cooling and 2 hours chilling COOKING TIME 50 minutes FOR THE BASE

worry, healthy doesn’t have to be dull and boring – in fact quite the

4 tbsp melted coconut oil, melted, plus extra for greasing

opposite. Deliciously nutritious, well-balanced dishes that are good

150g / 51/2 oz / 11/3 cups pecan nuts

for you inside and out are far more achievable than you might think.

150g / 51/2 oz / 11/4 cups dates, pitted and roughly chopped

This protein, fibre and vitamin packed Tray Baked Brill and Puy

100g / 31/2 oz / 2/3 cup oatmeal

Lentils served with tangy antioxidant Salsa Verde is a deliciously

FOR THE FILLING

substantial and impressive main course. It’s all conveniently baked in

1 tbsp cornflour / cornstarch

one dish making preparation and clearing up a breeze.

2 tbsp lemon juice

For dessert – blow your friends minds with this guilt-free Vanilla and Blueberry Cheesecake. The base is a clever mix of super healthy ingredients that are topped with a low-fat, calcium, iron and antioxidant-rich topping. It tastes so good, it’s hard to believe it’s actually good for you!

Give these recipes a try for your next dinner party and believe me, you’ll feel full of vitality and not full of guilt (however, I can’t be held responsible for your hangovers – what and how much you all drink is down to you!).

500g/1lb 2oz firm silken tofu 125ml / 41/2 oz / 1/2 cup maple syrup 2 eggs, lightly beaten seeds from 2 vanilla pods/beans finely grated zest of 1 lemon FOR THE TOPPING 200g / 7 oz / 11/2 cups blueberries 2 tbsp maple syrup 2 tsp lemon juice

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C/315oF/gas 2–3. Brush a little melted coconut oil around the base and sides of a 20cm/8in cake pan.

2. Put the pecans in a small roasting pan and toast in the oven for 5 minutes until they become a little darker. Leave to cool slightly, then tip into a food processor. Blitz to a coarse crumb. Add the dates, coconut oil and oatmeal.

Briefly blitz until the mixture begins to stick together. Press firmly and evenly into the base of the prepared pan.

3. To make the filling, mix the cornflour / cornstarch and lemon juice to a smooth paste. Put in a food processor with all the remaining filling ingredients and blitz until completely smooth. Pour over the base and bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is very lightly golden and the middle is just set, but still has a little wobble when you tap the pan. Leave to cool, then chill for about 2 hours.

4. To make the topping, put the blueberries in a saucepan with the maple syrup and lemon juice. Set over a medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 1 minute until some of the blueberries burst open, making a deep blue juice in the pan. Remove from the heat and leave to cool to room temperature.

5. Remove the chilled cheesecake from the pan and spoon the blueberries over. Serve cut into wedges.

24 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

FOOD BY JO PRATT

In the Mood for Healthy Food

by Jo Pratt, published by Nourish Books.

TRAY BAKED BRILL AND PUY LENTILS WITH SALSA VERDE You can use other white fish for this such as cod, bream, bass, haddock or pollock.

SERVES 4 PREPARATION TIME 20 minutes, plus 20 minutes soaking COOKING TIME 40 minutes

1. Cook the lentils in a pan of boiling water for 15–20 minutes until they are tender.

250g / 9oz / 11/4 cups dried Puy lentils

Drain well. Cover the mushrooms in approximately 250ml/9fl oz/ 1 cup hot water

25g / 1oz dried porcini mushrooms

and leave to soak for 20 minutes.

3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling 1 red onion, finely sliced 1 red pepper, deseeded and sliced 250g / 9 ox / 12/3 cups baby plum or cherry tomatoes, halved 4 brill fillets (about 150-175g / 51/2 oz each), skinned 100g / 31/2 oz / 2 cups baby spinach leaves sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

2. Meanwhile, make the salsa verde. Very finely chop the parsley and basil leaves, together with the capers, anchovy fillets and garlic. Put everything in a bowl, mix in the lemon juice and olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Stir in a little water to loosen to a spoonable consistency, if needed. Set aside until you are ready to serve.

3. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400oF/gas 6. Heat the oil in a roasting pan over a medium heat on the hob/stovetop. Add the onion and pepper and cook for about 5 minutes until softened but not coloured. Remove from the heat and stir in the cooked lentils and halved tomatoes.

4. Drain the mushrooms, reserving 185ml/6floz/3⁄4 cup of the soaking liquid. Roughly

FOR THE SALSA VERDE

chop the mushrooms and add both the mushrooms and soaking liquor to the

a small bunch of parsley leaves

roasting pan. Stir everything together.

a small buch of basil leaves 1 tbsp capers 4 anchovy fillets 1 garlic clove 1 tbsp lemon juice 4 tbsp olive oil

5. Sit the brill on top of the lentils, skin side down. Drizzle with a little olive oil, then season the whole pan with salt and pepper. Roast for 15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and starting to become golden.

6. Gently lift the fish from the tray. Stir the spinach into the lentils, until it is wilted.

Spoon onto plates, sit the fish on top and serve with the salsa verde to spoon over.

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 25

EDUCATION

S C H O O L O P E N D AY S - W I N T E R 2 0 1 5 / 1 6 ARTS ED 11yrs+ co-ed www.artsed.co.uk Admissions secretary 020 8987 6600 CHISWICK AND BEDFORD PARK 3-11yrs co-ed (girls only after 7yrs) www.cbppschool.co.uk By appointment only COLET COURT & ST PAUL’S BOYS 7-18yrs boys www.coletcourt.org.uk www.stpaulsschool.org.uk ccschoolsec@stpaulsschool.org.uk FRANCIS HOLLAND 4-18yrs girls www.fhs-sw1.org.uk 4+ ENTRY 1 Feb / 7 Mar / 25 Apr 11+& 13+ ENTRY Call for open events 020 7824 5005 or registrar@fhs-sw1.org.uk FULHAM PREPARATORY SCHOOL 4-13yrs co-ed www.fulhamprep.co.uk Call for appointment 020 7386 2444 GODOLPHIN AND LATYMER 11-18yrs girls www.godolphinandlatymer.com Open events usually Autumn Term Call Mrs Lundberg, Registrar, 020 8741 1936 or registrar@godolphinandlatymer.com HAMPTON COURT HOUSE 3-18yrs co-ed www.hamptoncourthouse.co.uk

HAMPTON SCHOOL 11yrs+ boys www.hamptonschool.org.uk Visitor Afternoons 2.30-4pm: 17 Mar / 26 Apr FOR BOYS SITTING IN JAN 2016 26 Nov FOR BOYS HOLDING 10+ & 11+ OFFERS 23 Feb 020 8979 9273 or admissions@hamptonschool.org.uk HEATHFIELD HOUSE SCHOOL 4-11yrs co-ed www.heathfieldhouse.co.uk Call for appointment: 020 8994 3385 IBSTOCK PLACE 4-18yrs co-ed www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk PREP 9.30 am: 3 Feb / 27 Apr / 15 Jun SENIORS FOR PROSPECTIVE SEPT 2017 ENTRY 5-7pm 11 May KEW GREEN PREP SCHOOL 4-11yrs co-ed www.kgps.co.uk Wednesdays 9:15am 13 Jan / 3 Feb / 16 Mar 4 & 18 May / 22 Jun KEW HOUSE SCHOOL 11yrs+ co-ed www.kewhouseschool.com 7pm: 3 Dec 9.30am: 8 Dec / 12 Jan / 5 & 9 Feb LADY ELEANOR HOLLES 7-18yrs girls www.lehs.org.uk Contact: registrar@lehs.org.uk

EARLY YEARS 2.30pm: 11 Feb / 12 May MIDDLE & UPPER YEARS 2.30-4pm: 5 Mar / 4 May

LATYMER PREP SCHOOL 7-11yrs co-ed www.latymerprep.org 10.30am-12pm: 4 & 14 Mar / 13 May

For all entries or individual tours contact Registrar Sarah Carroll 020 8614 0587 sarah@hchnet.co.uk

LATYMER UPPER SCHOOL 11-18yrs co-ed www.latymer-upper.org Spring dates for Y5 kids will be published on website in the spring term NOTTING HILL AND EALING HIGH SCHOOL 4-18yrs girls www.nhehs.gdst.net To enquire 020 8991 2165

HIVE OF ACTIVITY The Busy Hive has launched in Chiswick, a new pre-school for two to five year olds. The nursery will follow the Early Years Foundation Stage supplementing learning with selfselected activities and access to a safe outdoor area where children can grow their own vegetables and flowers. Snacks and hot lunches are served daily, made from locally sourced produce. Co-Founders Eugene Nouril & Priscilla Ramirez say: “We want to create an extension of home at The Busy Hive, filled to the brim with love. All our little bees are nurtured www.thebusyhive.co.uk

and encouraged to develop their full potential at their own pace through patient guidance and love.”

26 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

ORCHARD HOUSE 3-11yrs co-ed www.orchardhs.org.uk 020 8742 8544 - info@orchardhs.org.uk RAVENSCOURT PARK PREPARATORY SCHOOL 4-11yrs co-ed www.rpps.co.uk 9.30am: 20 Jan / 4 Feb /9 Mar / 5 May / 4 Jun 020 8846 9153 ST AUGUSTINE’S PRIORY 3-18yrs girls www.saintaugustinespriory.org.uk Spring Open Day 10am-12pm 5 Mar Register to attend ST JAMES SCHOOLS 4-18yrs www.stjamesschools.co.uk JUNIOR SCHOOL Call Mrs Collins 020 7348 1793 SENIOR GIRLS’ SCHOOL (IN ACTION) 9-10.45am: 26 Jan / 5 May SENIOR BOYS’ SCHOOL (IN ACTION) 3 Dec / 4 Feb / 10 Mar / 5 May ST PAUL’S GIRLS SCHOOL 11yrs+ girls www.spgs.org Book tour: admissions@spgs.org March until end of summer term ST PAUL’S SCHOOL 11yrs+ boys www.stpaulsschool.org.uk Book Tour: admissions@stpaulsschool.org.uk THE FALCONS 3-13yrs boys www.falconsboys.co.uk

PRE-PREP admin@falconschool.com - 020 8747 8393 PREP registrar@falconsprep.co.uk - 020 8948 9490t

THE HARRODIAN 4-18yrs co-ed www.harrodian.com Book tour 020 8762 6321

EDUCATION

COPING WITH EXAMS

W

i t h e n t r a n c e e x a m s a n d S ATs a p p r o a c h i n g , E r i k a B r o d n o c k t e l l s u s h o w t o spot signs of stress and how to deal with them.

For some children, the final half term of the calendar year is an immensely stressful one — a culmination of looming SATs signifying

2. Why do you feel that way? What’s the why? Ask

the end of their primary school years, the secondary school

your

application process and the 11+ exam!

sentence above with, ‘because …’

child

to

continue

the

Last year, NSPCC research found that academic worries were the

Feelings such as worry are usually

biggest cause of stress in nearly 50% of children. Heavy schedules

based on expectations. Understanding your child’s expectations

associated with last minute exam revision led to a reduction in the

of themselves and their perception of your expectations, can

time children could be children, and simply relax.

result in a discussion that may help allay unnecessary fears.

The pressure to gain strong enough grades to secure that all-important

3. What are my options for a new way of feeling? Once your

secondary school place is stressful for most children. For some though,

child has named the feeling, encourage them to put their hand

this stress can quickly turn to overwhelming, prolonged periods of

out straight ahead of them, as thoughsignalling traffic, say ‘STOP’

stress, potentially resulting in depression.

and explore the different options together and how to look at the situation differently to achieve change.

Stress can be troublesome to spot in children. It is often mistaken for difficult behaviour. Tell-tale signs to look for include frequent

More generally, help children revise, organise, rest and be energised.

unhappiness, irritability, low moods, or tearfulness. Sleeping problems, abnormal clinginess, body aches and headaches, without other

Revise - Memories are best retained when reading, listening and doing

symptoms of flu are also signals. The key thing to look for is a change

is combined. Repetition with rhyme and association are also great for

in behaviour, especially if your child finds it difficult to articulate what

aiding the formation of neural pathways around a subject. Once the

is wrong. It’s important that, as a parent, you trust your gut instincts.

bulk of revision is complete, use of note cards — with a few key words for each subject — the night before each exam should be sufficient.

It is also important to move swiftly when signs of stress manifest themselves. The sooner we reach children exhibiting signs of stress,

Organise - Schedule a revision timetable together early on so your

the more effective our help will be. Encourage your child to ask

child has plenty of time to cover his topics. Daily to-do lists that tackle

for help as soon as they begin to worry. Set aside time each week

the hardest subject first thing in the morning are useful. Encourage

for them to have the opportunity to speak with you privately and

your child not to cram the night before exams and help them organise

confidentially, with assurance that they will not get into trouble for

clothes and equipment the night before each exam.

the information they share.

Rest - Ensure your child gets plenty of sleep, along with regular Here are three key things on helping your child to develop healthy

breaks from revision. The brain works better with spaced and

ways to cope:

repeated learning. Deep breathing exercises to settle the mind and body and an early night before exams is optimal.

It’s really important for children to understand that emotions are transient. Stress occurs when emotions are held and become stuck,

Energise - A balanced diet: lots of fresh vegetables, fish, pulses,

rather than allowing them to pass.

cheese, water and limited processed and sugary foods is best for an active mind. Exercise, even a few stretches or brisk walk to the shops,

1.

What are you feeling? – Ask your child to name their feelings. If that proves difficult, or if ‘I don’t know’ is the answer, ask your child to give the feeling a shape, a colour and a name. This is a great way of gently probing into the issue. ie I’m feeling worried about my exams! Please take note of the language used here. ‘I’m feeling …’, rather than ‘I am …’

will help your child concentrate better when they get back to revising.

Erika Brodnock is one of the UK’s leading experts on the subject of raising happy, confident children. She offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice, and has even produced an eBook that is offered free of charge for parents looking for useful and practical information and techniques. For more information go to www.karismakidz.co.uk CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 27

BOOKS

Christmas is a huge time for book sales and they still hold their own despite competing distractions like electronic devices and video games consoles.

by A. Bogie and Rebecca Elliott (Fat Fox) tells the tale of a magical Christmas thrown into panic when Cow and her animal friends are in a rush to get their houses ship-shape before Father Christmas arrives.

Let’s face it, we’ve all been there.

With so much out there, what to choose? David Walliams’ latest endeavour Grandpa’s Great Escape (Harper Collins) will be gratefully received by most children (and adults), as will the stunningly illustrated version of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Bloomsbury), plus Jacqueline Wilson delivers another enthralling instalment of the Hetty Feather series with Little Stars (Doubleday Childrens). Outside of these obvious choices, I’ve selected books which will still delight when received on the big day. obvious choices, I’ve selected books which will still delight when received on the big day.

WORDS Sharon Fried-Jones

PRE-SCHOOLERS We all know what it’s like racing around getting ready for Christmas.

So it’s great to read that you’re not alone. Happy Hooves, Oh! Oh! Oh!

But that’s not all. Just when they think they’re ready, they have another problem. How is Father Christmas going get down the chimney when their houses don’t have any? It’s a common question asked by children, but it is tackled brilliantly. You can ride on that answer for years to come.

LITTLE KIDS

LITTLE KIDS

BIG KIDS

‘Childhood is surreal. Why shouldn’t children’s

Footy mad readers may like this charming reproduction of Lewitt-Him’s The Football’s Revolt (V&A), written in the 1940s by graphic designer duo, Jan Le Witt and George Him. They beautifully describe a football match between arch rivals, Kickford and Goalbridge.

Up for grabs is the Silver Cup, which is the prize awarded to the winner of their annual match.

And what a match it is!

One excellent edition to any bookshelf is Chris Riddell’s Goth Girl and the Wuthering Fright (Macmillan). In the third installment of the award-winning Goth Girl series, the Children’s Laureate returns with another cracking read.

books be?’ Is the view of New York Times bestselling author Mac Barnett and his latest book Leo: A Ghost Story (Chronicle Books) is no different.

Leo is a ghost who is sad because nobody can see him. So when a family moves into his home, he tries his best to welcome them, but naturally, they are spooked.

He decides to move out and explore the world at large, when he stumbles across a girl named Jane, and she can see him. Finally Leohas found happiness and, not only that, he uses his ghostly powers to trap an intruder.

However, not everyone is happy. It turns out the ball is fed up with being booted around with such force, but ‘nobody bothered about him, because, after all, he was nothing but a football, who could not even talk English.’

Aww …

Illustrator Christian Robinson’s blue palette really complements the tone of the book and the retro styling means this book has a very enduring appeal for adults too.

Charming and funny, the vintage design means it will not look out-of-place on your coffee table either. You might even spare a thought for the ball next time you watch Match of the Day.

This time Lord Goth is organising a Literary Dog Show, much to the delight of his daughter Ada. With contenders including Sir Walter Splott and his Lanarkshire Lurcher, Homily Dickinson with Carlo, her Yankee Doodle Poodle, it’s dog eat dog and competition is fierce.

Chris Riddell has come up trumps with this beautiful book. Visually arresting, a compelling story and littered with humour, it really is a winning combination. Simply stunning, although it might make your children want a puppy afterwards. www.sharonfjones.com CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 29

TRY THIS

OXYGEN FREEJUMPING It’s the news that many have been waiting for since the opening of Oxygen Freejumping in the Summer. Not content with an hour’s bouncing, or if your kids are showing a real aptitude for jumps and rolls, get them down to the Oxygen School of Trampolining.

Instruction is given by British Gymnastics qualified instructors and it is the real deal. They’ll start with tuck jumps, straddles and pikes and progress to double fronts and backs in no time.

of Trampolining has a class for you. Our British Gymnastics Qualified coaches deliver classes for all age groups and skills levels so there is a starting point for everyone but no limit as to high you can go.”

Classes are £10 and take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and are for 2-16 year olds, beginners and intermediates alike.

Stephen Wilson, Executive Director of Oxygen Freejumping: “The Oxygen School of Trampolining is the place for anyone who wants to learn a little something during their jump. Whether you are beginner wanting to jump safely, a newbie to the sport wanting to do their first flip, or an aspiring gymnast wanting to progress through a structured programme, the Oxygen School

30 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

City Kids Magazine has teamed up with Oxygen Freejumping to offer 20% off classes. Just use code TAKEOFF2O when booking. www.oxygenfreejumping.co.uk

BABIES AND PRE-SCHOOLERS MONDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS From 09.30 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

GYMBOREE

new LITTLE HANDS BABY SIGN BABY SIGN LANGUAGE FOR 0-2YRS

10.15 & 11.15 with Kathryn The Drayton Court Hotel, 2 The Avenue, W13 8PH littlehandsbabysign.co.uk 07736 284474

From 09.30 Various classes.

Newborn to 5yrs.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN gymboree-uk.com/f/chiswick 07967 835 059

SPANISH STORYTIME

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE

BABY MASSAGE

09.30 1 to 2yrs Twisters 1; 10.30 2 to 3yrs Twisters 2; 13.10 3 to 4yrs Dance Drama; 14.00 3 to 4yrs Gymkids.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Road, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452 07956 312 662

AMANDA’S ACTION CLUB | FUN, FITNESS & MUSIC 09.45 & 10.30 with Amanda.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN amandasactionclub.co.uk 01895 623 999

LITTLE HANDS BABY SIGN BABY SIGN LANGUAGE FOR 0-2YRS 09.45 Walkers group; 10.45 Non walkers group.

The Drayton Court Hotel, 2 The Avenue, W13 8PH littlehandsbabysign.co.uk 020 8997 1019

THE BUILD IT WORKSHOP

new

10.30 & 13.30 in Chiswick. westlondonbabies.com 078157 42824

LITTLE KICKERS | FOOTBALL 10.35 1½ to 2yrs 3mths; 11.30 2 to 3½ yrs. Check ahead as some classes have waiting lists.

Hogarth Community Centre, Duke Road, W4 2JR littlekickers.co.uk 07792 503 571

RHYME TIME 14.15 Under 5yrs.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

LA CAPUCINE | FRENCH 15.45 French for under 4s.

ByTheMoon, 69 Blythe Rd, W14 0PH lacapucine.co.uk

TUESDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE

TALK WITH TASHA COMMUNICATION 10.00 0 to18mths; 11.00 18mths to 3yrs.

Mothercare, Kew Retail Park, TW9 4AD talkwithtasha.com 07973 860 051

LA CAPUCINE | FRENCH 10.00 French for under 4s.

Drink Me Eat Me, 250-252 King Street, W6 0SP lacapucine.co.uk

TEMPO TOTS | MUSIC

09.30 2 to 3yrs Twisters 2; 10.30 3 to 4yrs Gymkids; 14.00 3 to 4yrs Ballet. All abilities.

Acton Baptist Church Hall, Church Rd, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

14.30 3 to 18mths; 15.20 18mths to 4yrs.

Mothercare, Kew Retail Park, TW9 4AD tempo-tots-sw.com

new LITTLE HANDS BABY SIGN BABY SIGN LANGUAGE FOR 0-2YRS

10.30 Under 5yrs.

Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7AT lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

09.45 16mths to 2yrs Loose Parts; 10.45 2 to 3yrs Build Workshop.16.00 4 to 6yrs after school drop off club.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN thebuilditworkshop.com 10.00, 10.45, 14.15, 15.00 Baby Ballet 2 to 4yrs; 15.45 Pre-primary ballet 4 to 5yrs.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE

From 09.30 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Road (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729 9.15 2 to 5yrs Tiny Tots Tap & Modern; 15.00 2 to 4yrs Baby Ballet; 15.45 4 to 5yrs Pre-primary ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

LA CAPUCINE | FRENCH

09.45 Walkers group; 10.45 Non walkers group.

Brentford Methodist Church, Clifton Road, TW8 0PB www.littlehandsbabysign.co.uk 07736 284474

CADENZA | MUSIC

OXYGEN SCHOOL OF TRAMPOLINING 10.00 2 to 5yrs. new Oxygen Freejumping, Unit 15, Vision Ind Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF oxygenfreejumping.co.uk 0208 992 2211

ST NICHOLAS PLAYGROUP

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 15.30 & 16.00 2 ½ to 4yrs Baby Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891 15.45 3 to 11yrs. Term-time only.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

KITE STUDIOS 16.00 1½ to 3yrs Art for Little Ones 2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

WEDNESDAYS

10.00 Term-time only.

St Nicholas Church, Church Street, W4 2PH stnicholaschiswick.org 020 8580 3806

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS From 09.30 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

RHYME TIME 10.30 Under 5yrs.

Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7AT lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

CHISWICK FRENCH & ITALIAN CLUBS | BILINGUAL CLASSES new 09.30 1 to 4yrs French; 10.30 1 to 4yrs Italian.

St Peter’s Church, Southfield Rd, W4 1BB spag.org.uk - chiswickfrenchclub.co.uk

BABY YOGA 10.30 in Chiswick westlondonbabies.com 078157 42824

HARTBEEPS | BABY MUSIC CLASS new

10.30 Under 5yrs.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF bhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

09.30 Toddler/standing; 10.30 sitting to toddling; 11.30 newborn to sitting.

Crown & Anchor, Chiswick High Rd, W4 5TA hartbeeps.com

GYMBOREE

STORY & RHYME TIME

09.15 French for under 4s.

ByTheMoon, 69 Blythe Rd, W14 0PH lacapucine.co.uk

10.45 Under 5yrs.

Askew Rd Library, Askew Rd, W12 9AS lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

GYMBOREE

LITTLE RUGBY

From 09.30 Various classes. 0 to 5yrs.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN gymboree-uk.com/f/chiswick 07967 835 059

15.00-17.30 10mths to 3yrs.

Isis Rooms & Garden, St Paul’s Church, Grove Park Rd, W4 3SB groveparkplaygroup.org 020 8742 8293

CRAFT CLUB

10.00 Holy Innocents Church, Paddenswick Road, W6 0UB cadenzaclasses.com

STORYTIME

GROVE PARK TODDLER GROUP

new

14.15 2 to 3.5 yrs Junior Rugby Hogarth Youth Ctr, Duke Rd, W4 2JR littlerugby.co.uk

From 09.30 Various classes. Newborn to 5yrs.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN gymboree-uk.com/f/chiswick 07967 835059

ANGELA GRANT SCHOOL OF DANCE 09.30 & 10.00 2 to 4yrs Baby Ballet.

Drink Me Eat Me, 250 - 252 King Street, W6 0SP balletclasseslondon.co.uk 07813 296221 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 31

BABIES AND PRE-SCHOOLERS ...WEDNESDAYS TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE

OXYGEN SCHOOL OF TRAMPOLINING

GYMBOREE

09.30 1 to 2yrs Twisters 1; 10.30 2 to 3yrs Twisters 2. All abilities.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Road, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

14.15 2 to 5yrs Tiny Tots Tap & Modern; 15.00 2 to 4yrs Baby Ballet; 15.45 4 to 5yrs Pre-primary Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

10.00 2 to 5yrs. new Oxygen Freejumping, Unit 15, Vision Ind Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF oxygenfreejumping.co.uk 0208 992 2211

From 09.30 Various classes. Newborn - 5yrs.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN gymboree-uk.com/f/chiswick 07967 835 059

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN

CAROLINE LESTER SCHOOL OF DANCE

14.00 3 to 4yrs Gymkids. All abilities.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Rd, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

CADENZA | MUSIC

HARTBEEPS | BABY MUSIC CLASS

FRIDAY FRIENDS | PLAYGROUP

09.45 0 to 2yrs; 10.30 2 to 3yrs Music and Movement.

The Music House for Children, 306 Uxbridge Rd, W12 7LJ musichouseforchildren.co.uk 020 8932 2652

16.00 3 to 5yrs. Term-time only.

Dukes Meadow Community Hall, Alexandra Gardens, W4 2RX carolinelesterschoolofdance.co.uk 020 3673 9421

CADENZA | MUSIC CLASS

16.00 3yrs+ Baby Ballet. IDTA Accredited School.

St Michael and All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX westlondondanceacademy.com 07771 984 590

09.45 Christ Church, Town Hall Avenue, W4 5DT cadenzaclasses.com

LITTLE ANGELS | TODDLER GROUP 10.00 Term-time only.

St Michael & All Angels Hall Priory Ave, W4 1TX smaaa.org.uk 020 8994 1380

WEST LONDON TWINS CLUB 10.00 St Stephen’s Church, St Stephen’s Road, W13 8HB westlondontwinsclub.org

LITTLE KICKERS | FOOTBALL 10.00 1½ to 2yrs 3mths; 11.00 2 to 3½ yrs; 15.30 3 ½ to 5yrs; 16.20 5 to 7yrs.

Hogarth Community Centre, Duke Rd, W4 2JR littlekickers.co.uk 07792 5035 71

PANDEMONIUM MUSICAL WORKSHOP 10.30 0 to 24mths; 11.30 2 to 4yrs (term-time only) Watermans, 40 High Street, Brentford, TW8 0DS watermans.org.uk

BOOKTIME BABIES | READING & MESSY PLAY 11.15 & 14.30 Sitting age to 18mths.

St Michael’s Church, Elmwood Road, W4 3DY booktimebabies.co.uk

PARENTS & BABIES SCREENINGS CINEMA 11.30 Parents & carers with babies up to 1yr.

Watermans, 40 High Str, TW8 0DS watermans.org.uk

32 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY

14.30 3 to 18mths; 15.20 18mths to 4yrs.

Mothercare, Kew Retail Park, TW9 4AD tempo-tots-sw.com

16.15 4 to 8yrs Kung Fu Fitness Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN animalfu.com 07984 707 777

ANGELA GRANT SCHOOL OF DANCE 15.45 2½ to 4yrs pre-school ballet.

Victoria Hall, Victoria House, Becklow Rd, W12 9HB www.balletclasseslondon.co.uk 07813 296 221

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS | FAMILY CIRCUS SKILLS 16.30 15mths to 7yrs with parent.

Melcombe Primary School, Fulham Palace Road, W6 9ER albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk 020 8237 1170/ 020 8237 1030

THURSDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS From 09.30 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Road (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

GYMBOREE From 09.30 Various classes. Newborn - 5yrs.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN gymboree-uk.com/f/chiswick 07967 835 059

AMANDA’S ACTION CLUB | FUN, FITNESS & MUSIC 15.45 with Amanda.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN amandasactionclub.co.uk 01895 623 999

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 16.00 4 to 5yrs. Pre-primary Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.15 4 to 5yrs. Pre-primary Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

FRIDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS

BABY SONG 09.30 Fortnightly playgroup with cake, play, bible story & singing time.

Play Café, Rockley Rd, W14 0DA stsimons.co.uk 020 7603 1418 10.30 & 13.20 in Chiswick. westlondonbabies.com 078157 42824

14.30 Sitting; 15.30 Walking.

Drink Me Eat Me, 250 - 252 King Street, W6 0SP hartbeeps.com 0800 1488 266

TEMPO TOTS | MUSIC

ANIMAL FU | PERFORMANCE MARTIAL ARTS

BABY MASSAGE

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE CLASSES

new

From 09.15 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE 09.15 6mths to 3yrs Drop-in gym; 10.30 3 to 4yrs Dance Drama.

Acton Baptist Church Hall, Church Road, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997

09.30 Drink Me Eat Me, 250 - 252 King Street, W6 0SP cadenzaclasses.com 09.30 0 to 4yrs. Term-time only.

Gunnersbury Baptist Church, Wellesley Road, W4 4BE gunnersburybaptistchurch.org 020 8987 2965

AMANDA’S ACTION CLUB | FUN, FITNESS & MUSIC 09.45 & 10. 30 4mths to 4yrs; 11.30 4 to 12mths.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN amandasactionclub.co.uk 01895 623 999

PLAY MANDARIN 10.00 0 to 4yrs. 2nd & 4th Friday of the month.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

KITE STUDIOS | ART 09.45, 10.45 & 13.45 18mths to 3yrs Art for Little Ones.

2b Bassein Park Road, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

MINI MULTIPLES | TWINS/TRIPLETS CLUB 10.00 Newborns to Under 5yrs.

Chiswick Children’s Centre, 9 Devonshire Street, W4 2AY younghounslow.info 020 8583 5603

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN 10.00 0 to 2yrs; 10.45 2 to 3yrs Musical and Movement.

The Music House for Children, 306 Uxbridge Rd, W12 7LJ musichouseforchildren.co.uk 020 8932 2652

BABY YOGA

new

10.30 in Chiswick westlondonbabies.com 078157 42824

BABBLEBUGS | MUSIC 10.45 0 to 3yrs.

Drink Me Eat Me, 250 - 252 King Street, W6 0SP info@babblebugs.co.uk

BABIES AND PRE-SCHOOLERS ...FRIDAYS CHISWICK LIBRARY STORYTIME 11.00 0 to 5yrs. Term-time only.

Dukes Avenue, W4 2AB hounslow.info 020 8994 1008

BABY BOUNCE 11.00 Stories & Rhymes.

Askew Road Library, 87/91 Askew Rd, W12 9AS lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3863

RICHMOND GYMNASTICS ASSOCIATION

MINI BOARDERS SKATEBOARDING CLUB

10.00 1 to 6yrs (for parent & child).

Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ parkourgenerations.com

09.00 4yrs+ General class.

1 Townmead Road, Kew, TW9 4EL richmondgymnastics.co.uk 020 8878 8682

14.30 4 to 5yrs.

Westway Sports Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP mylittleboarders.co.uk 07801 824 688

KIDDIKICKS | FOOTBALL

CROUCHING TIGER KARATE 16.00 4yrs+ Tiger Cubs Karate.

The Dukes Meadows Community Centre, Alexandra Gardens, W4 2RX crouchingtigerkarate.co.uk 07734 655 057

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 15.15 2 to 4yrs Baby Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

A2ZEN | YOGA 16.00 All abilities.

Vihara Buddhist Centre, 309 - 311 The Avenue, W4 1UD a2ze.co 07979 533 7500

SATURDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS From 08.30 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

LITTLE KICKERS | FOOTBALL 08.30 1½ to 2yrs 3mths; 9.15 2 to 3½ yrs; 10.15 & 11.15 3½ to 5yrs.

Hogarth Community Centre, Duke Road, W4 2JR littlekickers.co.uk 07792 503 571

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 09.15 4 to 5yrs Pre-primary Ballet; 10.45 2 to 5yrs Tiny Tots & Modern.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

LITTLE RUGBY

PARKOUR GENERATIONS FREE RUNNING

new

09.30 2 to 3½yrs Junior Rugby; 10.30 3 to 5yrs Mighty Rugby.

Hogarth Youth Ctr, Duke Rd, W4 2JR littlerugby.co.uk

THE LITTLE FOXES CLUB MULTI-SPORT CLASSES Football & Rugby Classes for children aged 18 months to 4 years.

10.00 - 11.00 & 11.00 - 12.00 Acton Park, Ravenscourt Park & Turnham Green thelittlefoxesclub.com 0207 376 0006

10.30 2½ to 3½ yrs Runners; 11.15 3.6 to 5yrs Racers.

April-October Kings House Sports Ground, W4 2RZ November-March at Brentford Fountain Leisure Centre, TW8 0HJ kiddikicks.co.uk 020 7937 7965

ITALIAN STORY TIME 10.30 Under 5yrs.

Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7AT lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3820

ROCKS LANE | FOOTBALL COACHING 10.30 U4yrs A; 11.00 Under 4yrs B. 16 week terms. rockslane.co.uk 020 8994 1313

LITTLE STAGE ACADEMY (PSSA) 10.45 2½ to 4yrs.

Westside Community School, 8-30 Galena Rd, W6 0LT pssa.co.uk 07943 656 092

Sports Generation

RHYME TIME 11.00 Under 5yrs.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

WILL TO WIN | TENNIS 12.00 3 to 4yrs Mini Tots drop-in.

Will to Win Chiswick, Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk/chiswick 020 8994 1466

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS FAMILY CIRCUS SKILLS

Gymboree

10.30 15mths to 7yrs.

St Alban’s Hall, Margravine Rd, W6 8HJ albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk 020 8237 1170 / 020 8237 1030

SUNDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS From 09.00 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729 Little Kickers CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 33

LITTLE KIDS (5-11) MONDAYS NUMBER WORKS’NWORDS | MATHS & ENGLISH TUITION From 15.00 daily incl Sat mornings.

86A Chiswick High Road, W4 1SY numberworksnwords.co.uk 020 8994 9168

KITE STUDIOS | ART 15.45 6 to 8yrs Young Art Studio.

2b Bassein Park Road, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

CHATTERBOOKS 15.45 8 to 12yrs Reading groups.

Once a month. Term-time only.

Askew Road Library, 87/91 Askew Rd, W12 9AS lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3863

HOMEWORK CLUB 15.45 Term-time only. Maths and English tutor provided by Hammersmith and Fulham Adult Learning & Skills Service.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 15.45 Preparatory Ballet; 16.15 Primary Ballet; 17.00 Grade 1 & 2 Tap; 17.45 Grade 3 Tap; 18.30 Grade 4 Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 16.00 4 to 5yrs Pre-Primary Ballet; 16.30 7 to 9yrs Grade 2 Ballet; 17.30 9 to 11yrs Grade 4 Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

ARCH 197 | DANCE 16.00 5yrs+ RAD Primary Ballet; 17.00 & 18.00 6 to 10yrs Street Dance.

Prebend Gardens, Stamford Brook, W6 0XT arch197.com 020 8987 8788

KUMON ACTON CENTRAL MATHS AND ENGLISH 16.00 St Mary’s Church Hall, 1 The Mount, W3 9NW kumon.co.uk 020 8998 3379

34 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

WESTWAY CLIMBING | INDOOR CLIMBING 16.00 5 to 6yrs Tiny Tots; 16.30 7 to 14yrs Junior.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

THE BUILD IT WORKSHOP 16.00 4 to 6yrs after school drop off club.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN thebuilditworkshop.com

POP SCHOOL & STAGE ACADEMY 16.15 7 to 11yrs Junior. Commercial Street Jazz.

Westside Community School, 8-30 Galena Road, W6 0LT pssa.co.uk 07943 656 092

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.30 5 to 7yrs Primary Ballet; 17.15 8 to 10yrs Grade 2 Ballet; 18.15 10 to 12yrs Grade 4 Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Str, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

SONG ACADEMY | SONGWRITING 16.30 8 to11yrs.

Arts Educational Schools London, Cone Ripman Hse, 14 Bath Rd, W4 1LY songacademy.co.uk 07710 023 743

CARLSON GRACIE JUDO 16.30 7 to 12yrs.

89 Richford Street, W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

WE MAKE FOOTBALLERS 17.00 4 to 7yrs; 18.00 8 to12yrs.

Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN wemakefootballers.com 020 7148 1602

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS | FAMILY CIRCUS SKILLS 17.30 8yrs+ general circus skills.

St Alban’s Hall, Margravine Rd, W6 8HJ albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk 020 8237 1170 / 020 8237 1030

ILYEO TAEKWONDO CLUB 18.00 5yrs+ Beginners welcome.

Russian Orthodox Church, Harvard Road, W4 4ED ilyeotaekwondo.com 07872 932 223

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS 17.45 6 to12yrs Twisters/Hot shots Beginner; 18.45 6 to12yrs Twisters/ Aerials Intermediate/Advanced.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

20TH CHISWICK SCOUT GROUP SCOUT GROUP

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 16.30 Grade 2 Ballet; 17.15 Grade 3 Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL

18.30 6 to 8yrs Beavers.

Term-time only.

The Ranch, Chiswick House Car Park, Ellesmere Rd, W4 2QN

16.30 5 to 6yrs Primary Ballet; 17.00 7 to 8yrs Grade 1 exam class.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

TUESDAYS

CANALSIDE ACTIVITY CENTRE | YOUTH CENTRE WITH WATERSPORTS

CRAFT CLUB 15.45 3 to11yrs Craft Club. Termtime only. 50p per child.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

LITTLE STAGE ACADEMY 15.45 5 to 7yrs.

Drink Me Eat Me, 250 - 252 King Street, W6 0SP pssa.co.uk 07943 656 092

LITTLE LUMIS | YOGA 16.00 6-11yrs 121 King Street, W6 9JG lumipoweryoga.com/little-lumis 020 8846 8504

BADGER & EARL | KNITTING 16.00 Kids learn to knit classes.

14a Sutton Court, W4 4NG badgerandearl.com

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE 16.00 4 to 5yrs Gym 1; 16.50 5 to 6yrs Gym 2; 17.40 7yrs+ Gym 3.

Acton Baptist Church Hall, Church Rd, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

PLEASING DANCE SCHOOL OF BALLET 16.15 Primary; 16.45 Grade 1.

Hammersmith Christian Fellowship Hall, Dalling Rd ,W6 pleasingdance.co.uk 020 7794 0905

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.30 5 to 7yrs Primary Ballet; 17.15 7 to 9yrs Grade 1 Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Str, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

16.30 9yrs+ Canal Close, W10 5AY rbkc.gov.uk

POETRY CLUB 16.45 Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Rd, W6 7AT lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3820

KITE STUDIOS | ART 17.00 7yrs+ Stitch & Print 2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

JUNIOR NETBALL AT WILL TO WIN 17.00 9 to 11yrs.

Will to Win Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk

OXYGEN SCHOOL OF TRAMPOLINING 17.00 6 to 11yrs beginners. new Oxygen Freejumping, Unit 15, Vision Industrial Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF oxygenfreejumping.co.uk

ST PAUL’S FENCING CLUB 17.30 8-10yrs+ boys and girls.

Lonsdale Rd, SW13 9JT stpaulsfencingclub.com 07961 061 662

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS 18.00 6 to 12yrs Flips/Hot shots beginner.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

KUMON SHEPHERDS BUSH | MATHS AND ENGLISH 15.30 St Stephen’s Church Hall, Coverdale Rd, W12 8JJ kumon.co.uk 020 3002 0735

LITTLE KIDS (5-11) WEDNESDAYS KITE STUDIOS | ART 15.40 4 to 6yrs Nature to Numbers - Art in a Story; 16.30 9yrs+ Young Art Studio.

2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 15.45 4 to 5yrs Pre-primary ballet; 16.30 8 to 11yrs Grade 3 Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

KUMON OLYMPIA | MATHS AND ENGLISH 15.45 Masbro Centre, 87 Masbro Rd, W14 0LR kumon.co.uk 020 3397 8581

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 16.00 2½ to 4yrs Baby Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

KUMON ACTON CENTRAL | MATHS AND ENGLISH 16.00 St Mary’s Church Hall, 1 The Mount, W3 9NW kumon.co.uk 020 8998 3379

WESTWAY CLIMBING 16.00 5 to 6yrs Tiny Tots; 16.30 7 to 14yrs Junior.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

PLEASING DANCE SCHOOL OF BALLET 16.15 Grade 1; 17.00 Grade 3.

Hammersmith Christian Fellowship Hall, Dalling Rd ,W6 0EU pleasingdance.co.uk 020 7794 0905

TWISTERS 16.15 4 to 5yrs Ballet.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Rd, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997/ 020 8840 4452

LITTLE KICKERS | FOOTBALL 16.20 5 to 7yrs.

Hogarth Community Centre, Duke Rd, W4 2JR littlekickers.co.uk 07792 503 571

STORY TIME 16.30 5 to 8yrs term-time only.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

ANGELA GRANT SCHOOL OF DANCE

THE LITTLE FOXES CLUB | TENNIS CLASSES

16.00 6yrs Primary; 16.30 7yrs Grade 1; 17.00 Grade 2; 17.45 Grade 3; 18.30 Grade 7.

St Dunstan’s Hall, Friar’s Place Lane, W3 7AW balletclasseslondon.co.uk 07813 296 221

17.00 - 18.00 Tennis Classes from 5 to 12yrs.

Brook Green Tennis Courts thelittlefoxesclub.com 0207 376 0006

CARLSON GRACIE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU

17.00 7yrs+ Youth outdoor.

Various locations. Check website for latest venue. parkourgenerations.com

16.30 7 to 12yrs.

89 Richford Street, W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

CAROLINE LESTER SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.30 4 to 6yrs; 17.15 6yrs+ Primary Ballet; 17.45 Grade 1 Ballet; 18.30 Grade 2 Ballet; 19.15 Grade 4 Ballet. Term-time.

Dukes Meadow Community Hall, Alexandra Gardens, W4 2RX carolinelesterschoolofdance.co.uk 020 3673 9421

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 16.30 Preparatory Ballet; 17.00 Primary Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 17.00 Modern & Tap Grade 2.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS 17.45 8yrs+ Beginner/Intermediate aerial skills.

Melcombe Primary School, Fulham Palace Rd, W6 9JR albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk 020 8237 1170 / 020 8237 1030

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS 17.15 6 to12yrs Twisters/Hot shots Intermediate; 18.15 6 to12yrs Aerials Int/Advanced Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

KUNG FU KIDS YMAA ORIENT SPORT 17.30 St Stephen’s Community Hall, 34 Gayford Rd, W12 9BY orientsport.co.uk 07824 603 261

PARKOUR GENERATIONS FREERUNING

20TH CHISWICK SCOUT GROUP 18.30 6 to 8yrs Beavers. 18.45 8 to 10½ yrs Cubs. Term-time only.

The Ranch, Chiswick House Car Park, Ellesmere Rd, W4 2QN 20th-chiswick-scouts.blogspot.co.uk

THE 3RD CHISWICK CUB PACK SCOUT GROUP 18.45-20.00 boys and girls 8 to 10½ yrs. Term-time only.

Scouthaven, Wilson Walk, Prebend Gardens, W4 1PT 3rdchiswickscouts.co.uk 07771 964 312

THURSDAYS

HAYA | YOUTH THEATRE 16.15 8 to12yrs voice & speech training, audition technique, stage combat...

Watermans, 40 High Str, TW8 0DS watermans.org.uk

ANGELA GRANT SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.15 4-5 yrs Pre-primary; 16.45 6yrs+ Primary; 17.15 7yrs+ Grade 2; 18.00 Grade 4; 16.45 Grade 5.

St Dunstan’s Hall, Friar’s Place Lane, W3 7AW balletclasseslondon.co.uk 07813 296 221

GAMES CLUB 16.30 5yrs+ (under 8’s must be accompanied by an adult).

Askew Road Library, 87/91 Askew Rd, W12 9AS lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3863

FOUCAN FREERUNNING ACADEMY 16.30 7yrs+ Beginners; 17.30 7yrs+ Intermediates Oxygen Freejumping, Vision Ind Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF foucan.com/ffa

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY | BALLET & TAP

15.35 every two weeks.

Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Rd, W6 7AT bhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3820

16.45 Grade 1 Ballet; 17.30 Primary Tap; 18.15 Grade 4 Tap. St Michael & All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

KITE STUDIOS | ART

WE MAKE FOOTBALLERS

ART CLUB

16.00 5yrs+ Create in Clay. 17.15 9yrs+ Portfolio into secondary.

2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

SONG ACADEMY | SONGWRITING 16.00 8 to 11yrs.

Holy Trinity Church, Brook Green, W6 7BL songacademy.co.uk 07710 023 743

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 16.00 4 to 5yrs Pre-Primary Ballet; 16.30 5 to 6yrs Primary Ballet; 17.00 8 to 9yrs Grade 3 Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

TWISTERS 16.00 4 to 5yrs Gym 1; 16.50 5 to 6yrs Gym 2; 17.40 7yrs+ Gym 3.

Acton Baptist Church Hall, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

17.00 4-7yrs; 18.00 8-12 yrs Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN wemakefootballers.com 020 7148 1602

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 17.00 8yrs+ Grade 2 Tap & Modern; 18.15 9yrs+ Grade 3 Tap & Modern.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

CROUCHING TIGER KARATE 17.00 6 yrs+ Crouching Tiger Shotokan Karate, 18.00 8 yrs+.

St. Michael’s Church, Elmwood Road, W4 3DZ crouchingtigerkarate.co.uk 07734 655 057

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 35

LITTLE KIDS (5-11) ...THURSDAYS HOMEWORK CLUB 17.00 Term-time only. Maths and English tutor provided by Hammersmith and Fulham Adult Learning & Skills Service.

Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Rd, W6 7AT lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3820

OXYGEN SCHOOL OF TRAMPOLINING 17.00 6 to 11yrs intermediates. new Oxygen Freejumping, Unit 15, Vision Industrial Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF oxygenfreejumping.co.uk

THE 3RD CHISWICK BEAVER COLONY | SCOUT GROUP 17.40 boys and girls 6 to 8yrs. Termtime only.

Scouthaven, Wilson Walk, Prebend Gardens, W4 1PT 3rdchiswickscouts.co.uk 07845 299 179

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS 17.45 6 to12yrs Twisters/Hot shots Beginner; 18.45 6 to12yrs Twisters/ Aerials Intermediate/Advanced.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

FRIDAYS KUMON OLYMPIA | MATHS AND ENGLISH 15.45 Masbro Centre, 87 Masbro Rd, W14 0LR kumon.co.uk 020 3397 8581

CROUCHING TIGER KARATE 16.00 4yrs+ Tiger Cubs Karate £90; 16.30 & 17.15 6yrs+ Crouching Tiger Shotokan Karate.

The Dukes Meadows Community Centre, Alexandra Grdns, W4 2RX crouchingtigerkarate.co.uk 07734 655 057

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.00 5 to 7yrs Primary Tap & Modern; 17.00 7yrs+ Grade 1 Tap & Modern.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

KITE STUDIOS | ART CLASSES 16.00 5yrs+ Art in Spanish.

2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

36 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

SATURDAYS WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 16.15 Grade 2 Ballet; 17.00 Grade 3 Ballet; 17.45 Intermediate Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

STAGECOACH CHISWICK 16.15 4 to 6 yrs Early Stages dance, drama and singing; 16.30 6 to 18yrs Main Stages.

Strand on the Green School, Thames Rd, W4 3NX stagecoach.co.uk 020 3394 0818

STAGECOACH KENSINGTON 16.15 4 to 6yrs Early Stages; 16.30 6yrs+ Main School.

Addison Primary School, Addison Grdns, Blythe Rd, W14 0DT stagecoach.co.uk/kensington

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 16.30 6 to 8yrs Grade 1 Ballet; 17.15 Irish.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891 / 07771 905 226

LOVE IT PERFORMING ARTS 16.30 4 to 8yrs & 9 to14yrs. The Salvation Army Hall, 21-23 Dalling Rd, W6 0JB loveitperformingarts.co.uk 07595 470 865

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS 17.00 6 to12yrs Flips/Hot shots Beginner; 18.00 6 to12yrs Twisters/Aerials Intermediate/Advanced.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

WILL TO WIN | TENNIS 17.00 8 to 14yrs Junior social.

Drop-in.

Will to Win Chiswick, Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk 020 8994 1466

PARKOUR GENERATIONS FREE RUNNING 18.45 7yrs+ Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Rd, W2 5EZ parkourgenerations.com

ONTHEBALLTENNIS WITH MAHMUDA 09.00 5 to 8yrs; 09.45 8 to 9yrs; 10.30 10yrs; 11.30 11yrs. All year.

Ravenscourt Park Tennis Courts, W6 0UA ontheballtennis.co.uk 07813 163 430

EXCEL SPORTS SOCCER SCHOOL 09.00 4 to 5yrs; 09.30 6 to 7yrs; 10.30 8yrs+.

University of Westminster Sports Ground, Hartington Rd, W4 3UH 07956 151 559

CHISWICK SATURDAY MUSIC CENTRE 09.10 all ages. Individual & group music lessons.

Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN (Staveley Road entrance) chiswicksaturdaymusic.org.uk 07513 012 373

KIDDIKICKS LIGA SOCCER 09.15 5 to 8yrs.

April to October at King’s House Sports Ground, W4 2RZ November to March at Brentford Fountain Leisure Centre, TW8 0HJ kiddikicks.co.uk

KEW PARK RANGERS 09.15 Under 4/5yrs and Under 10yrs Boys; 11.00 Under 10yrs Girls.

September to May. North Sheen Recreation Ground, North Road, Kew, TW9 4HA kewparkrangers.co.uk 020 8940 9882

CENTRE STAGE WORKSHOPS 09.30 8 to 11yrs.

Tabard Theatre, 2 Bath Rd, W4 1LW tabardtheatre.co.uk 020 8995 6035

STAGECOACH CHISWICK 09.30, 11.30, 14.00 & 15.30 4 to 6yrs Early Stages. 10.00 & 14.30 Main Stages (6 to18yrs) Saturdays.

William Hogarth School, Duke Rd, W4 2JR stagecoach.co.uk 020 3394 0818

STAGECOACH KENSINGTON 09.30, 11.15, 14.00, 15.45 4 to 6yrs Early Stages; 10.00 & 14.30 6yrs+ Main Stages.

St Barnabas & St Philips School, 58 Earl’s Court Rd, W8 6EJ stagecoach.co.uk/kensington

WE MAKE FOOTBALLERS 09.30 9 to12yrs; 10.30 4 to 6yrs; 11.30 7 to 8yrs.

Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN wemakefootballers.com 020 7148 1602

MINI ENGINEERS | LEGO CONSTRUCTION 09.30 5 to 8yrs Our Wonderful Planet; 11.00 6 to11yrs Intro to Mini Machines.

Imperial College London, Exhibition Rd, SW7 2AZ mini-engineers.com

KITE STUDIOS | ART 10.00 7yrs+ Young Art Studio.

2b Bassein Park Road, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

THE LITTLE FOXES | MULTI-SPORT CLASSES 10.00 & 11.00 5 to 6yrs Cheeky Foxes & 7 to12yrs Super Foxes.

The green opposite Turnham Green Church thelittlefoxesclub.com 020 7376 0006

ESTA | THEATRE SCHOOL 10.00 6 to 17yrs. Term-time only.

Ravenscourt Park Prep, 16 Ravenscourt Avenue, W6 0SL estatheatreschool.com 020 8741 2843

YOURSPACE | DRAMA & DANCE 10.00 6 yrs+ Termly themes.

St Augustine’s Priory, Hillcrest Rd, W5 2JL yourspacedrama.com 07580 474 638

THEATRE STUDIO WEST 10.00 6 to 9yrs TSW Stage; 10 to13yrs TSW Youth Company.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Rd, W3 8PP theatrestudiowest.co.uk 020 8616 8846

FOUCAN FREERUNNING ACADEMY 10.00 7yrs+ Beginners.

Oxygen Freejumping, Vision Ind Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF www.foucan.com/ffa

SEWING MACHINE SKILLS 10.00 9yrs+ Introduction to using sewing machine. Progress to Bigger Kids Sewing club and bring your project in for step by step help.

14a Sutton Court Rd, W4 4NG badgerandearl.com

LITTLE KIDS (5-11) ...SATURDAYS PARKOUR GENERATIONS 10.00 1 to 6yrs.

Moberly Sports Centre Kilburn Lane, W10 4AH parkourgenerations.com

POP SCHOOL & STAGE ACADEMY 10.00 7 to 11yrs PSSA Junior Stage Academy; 11.00, 11.30 & 13.00 5 to 6yrs Little Stage Academy; 13.00 7 to 11yrs Junior commercial jazz.

Westside Community School, 8-30 Galena Rd, W6 0LT pssa.co.uk 07943 656 092

WILL TO WIN 10.00 8 to 10yrs Mini Orange drop in; 11.00 10 to 11yrs Green drop-in & Yellow; 12.00 3 to 4yrs Mini Tots & 5 to 8yrs Mini Red. Will to Win Chiswick, Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk 020 8994 1466

YOURSPACE | DANCE & DRAMA 10.00 6yrs+ drama and/or dance.

Termly themes.

St Augustine’s Priory, Hillcrest Rd, W5 2JL yourspacedrama.com 07580 474 638

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS 10.30 15mths to 7yrs Family Circus skills; 11.30 8yrs+ General Circus skills; 13.15 Beginner/Intermediate Aerial skills.

St Alban’s Hall, Margravine Rd, W6 8HJ albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk 020 8237 1170 / 020 8237 1030

BADGER & EARL | SEWING & CRAFT 11.00 Sewing Machine Skills including cutting and measuring fabric.

All materials supplied.

Badger & Earl, 14a Sutton Court Rd, W4 4NG badgerandearl.com 020 8994 0205

CANALSIDE ACTIVITY CENTRE YOUTH CENTRE WITH WATERSPORTS 11.00– 9yrs+. All day.

Canal Close, W10 5AY www.rbkc.gov.uk

CHATTERBOOKS 10.45 8 to 12yrs. Reading groups.

Meet once a month. Term-time only.

Askew Road Library, 87/91 Askew Rd, W12 9AS lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3863

CARLSON GRACIE GRAPPLE AND STRIKE 11.00 7 to 12yrs wrestling Jiu-jitsu and kick boxing.

89 Richford Street, , W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

ILYEO TAEKWONDO CLUB 11.00 5yrs+ Beginners welcome.

Russian Orthodox Church, Harvard Rd, W4 4ED ilyeotaekwondo.com 07872 932 223

THE BAND PROJECT 11.00-13.00 & 14.00-17.00 8 to11yrs live performance and band-based course.

Arch 196, Prebend Gardens, W6 0XT thebandproject.co.uk 07771 456 955

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 11.30 5 to 8yrs Gymnastic Aerobics; 12.15 9yrs+ Gymnastic Aerobics.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

LITTLE KICKERS 12.10 5 to 7yrs.

Hogarth Community Centre, Duke Rd, W4 2JR littlekickers.co.uk

ZEBRA SKATE | INLINE SKATING & SKATEBOARDING

THAMES YOUNG MARINERS (TRAINING CENTRE) Sailing courses for beginners Dinghy level 1 to Youth Sailing Scheme Level 4. Powerboat courses for 8 to 11yrs.

Riverside Drive, Ham, TW10 7RX 01372 378 901

SUNDAYS LET’S PLAY NETBALL 09.00 6 to 8yrs; 10.00 8 to 10yrs.

Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN letsplaynetball.co.uk

LONDON WELSH MINIS 09.45 U6-U12 London Welsh RFC, The Old Deer Park, Kew Rd, Richmond londonwelshminis.org 020 8940 2368

CHISWICK RFC JUNIORS 10.00 4 to13yrs boys and girls.

Dukes Meadows, Dan Mason Drive, W4 2SH chiswickrugby.co.uk/juniors

WASPS MINIS 10.00 4yrs+ girls and boys Twyford Avenue Sports Ground, Twyford Ave, W3 9QA pitchero.com/clubs/waspsfootballclub/ 020 8993 8384

GRASSHOPPERS RFC 10.00 4yrs+ knee highs & U7-U12 boys and girls.

Macfarlane Lane, off Syon Lane, Osterley, Middx grasshoppersrfc.com 020 8568 0010

HAMMERSMITH & FULHAM RFC 10.00 5yrs+ Little Hammers, U7-U12 training and match play.

Hurlingham Park new fulhamrugby.co.uk 020 7381 5064

LITTLE RUGBY 11.30 5 to 7yrs Mega Rugby Hogarth Youth Centre, Duke Road, W4 2JR littlerugby.co.uk

AERIALAND | YOUTH CIRCUS SCHOOL 14.30 9 to 12yrs.

8-30 Galena Rd, W6 0LT aerialand.com 07737 624 296

MIDI & MAXI BOARDERS SKATEBOARDING CLUB 14.30 6yrs + Intermediate and advanced.

Westway Sports Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP mylittleboarders.co.uk 07801 824 688

13.00 5yrs+ lessons include all protective gear and equipment.

Chiswick School Community Hall, Staveley Rd, W4 3HU zebraskate.co.uk 020 3287 5283

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS 14.30 6 to12yrs Flips/Hot shots Beginner; 15.30 6 to12yrs Twisters/ Aerials Intermediate/Advanced.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 15.45 Preparatory Grade 1.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

OXYGEN SCHOOL OF TRAMPOLINING 17.00 6 to 11yrs beginners. new Oxygen Freejumping, Unit 15, Vision Industrial Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF oxygenfreejumping.co.uk

Will to Win

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 37

BIG KIDS (11+) MONDAYS NUMBER WORKS’NWORDS | MATHS & ENGLISH From 15.00 daily, incl Sat mornings.

86A Chiswick High Rd, W4 1SY numberworks.co.uk 020 8994 9168

WESTWAY CLIMBING 16.30 7 to 14yrs Junior. After school sessions.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

HOGARTH YOUTH AND COMMUNITY CENTRE INTERMEDIATES CLUB 17.00 Years 7, 8 and 9.

Duke Rd, W4 2JR hogarthtrust.org.uk 020 8747 1999

KITE STUDIOS | ART 17.15 GCSE & A-Level Portfolio Projects.

2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

CARLSON GRACIE JUDO 17.15 13 to 17yrs.

89 Richford Street, W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

SONG ACADEMY | SONGWRITING 17.30– 12 to 16yrs.

Arts Educational Schools London, Cone Ripman House, 14 Bath Rd, W4 1LY songacademy.co.uk 07710 023 743

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL

KITE STUDIOS

ARCH 197 | DANCE CLASSES

THE 3RD CHISWICK SCOUTS

17.00 Stitch & Print for Duke of Edinburgh skills.

2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

18.30 14yrs+ Sam McAvoy’s Master Class.

Prebend Gardens, W6 0XT arch197.com 020 8987 8788

PARKOUR GENERATIONS FREERUNING

W4LACROSSE CLUB

19.00 10 to14yrs Scouts boys and girls; 20.00 14 to18yrs Explorers.

Term-time only.

Scouthaven Wilson Walk, Prebend Gdns, W4 1PT 3rdchiswickscouts.co.uk 07976 520 747

17.00 11yrs+ Youth outdoor.

Various locations. Check website for latest venue. parkourgenerations.com

NEW DANCE VENTURES CONTEMPORARY DANCE 17.30 11yrs+ Free flowing dance delivering strength, balance & coordination.

Grove Park Studios, W4 3HR newdanceventures.com 07766 816 308

FOUCAN FREERUNNING ACADEMY 17.30 11 to 16yrs Beginners; 18.30 Intermediates; 19.30 14yrs+ Intermediate/Advanced.

Oxygen Freejumping, Vision Ind Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF foucan.com/ffa

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 18.00 12yrs+ Intermediate Class.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

OXYGEN SCHOOL OF TRAMPOLINING

18.00 Grade 7 Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

18.00 12 to 16yrs beginners; new 19.00 16yrs+ beginners.

Oxygen Freejumping, Unit 15, Vision Industrial Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF oxygenfreejumping.co.uk

HOGARTH YOUTH AND COMMUNITY CENTRE SENIOR CLUB

WESTWAY CLIMBING

18.45 11 yrs+.

Duke Rd, W4 2JR hogarthtrust.org.uk

20TH CHISWICK SCOUT GROUP 19.45 14 to18yrs Explorers.

The Ranch, Chiswick House Car Park, Ellesmere Rd, W4 2QN 20th-chiswick-scouts.blogspot.co.uk

TUESDAYS

CARLSON GRACIE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU 16.30 13 to 17yrs.

89 Richford Street, W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

38 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

18.00 12 to 18yrs.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 18.15 11yrs+ Grade 5 Ballet.

The Hayloft 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 18.00 Advanced 1 Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Hall Priory Ave, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

18.30 11yrs+ Term time only Astro pitches, Hartington Rd (By Roko) W4 3UH info@w4lacrosse.com

BE DANCE 20.30 16yrs+ Be Adults. Beginners and Keep Fit. Fitrooms, 254-258 North End Rd, SW6 1NJ bedance.co.uk 07545 697 352

WEDNESDAYS WESTWAY CLIMBING 16.30 7 to 14yrs Junior. After school sessions. 18.30 12 to 18yrs.

Westway Sport Centre 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

HOGARTH YOUTH AND COMMUNITY CENTRE INTERMEDIATES CLUB 17.00 Years 7, 8 and 9.

Duke Road, W4 2JR hogarthtrust.org.uk 020 8747 1999

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 17.30 11yrs+ Intermediate Ballet; 18.30 11 yrs+ Grade 6 Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond St, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312662

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 17.45 Grade 5 & Intermediate Tap; 18.30 Grade 5 Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Hall Priory Ave, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL

CHISWICK SEA CADET UNIT SAILING & ADVENTURE TRAINING 19.00 12 to18yrs boys and girls.

The Pier House Chiswick Pier, Corney Reach, W4 2UG sea-cadets.org/chiswick

020 7654 7000

THURSDAYS CARLSON GRACIE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU 16.30 13 to 17yrs.

89 Richford Street, W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

CANALSIDE ACTIVITY CENTRE 16.30 9 to19yrs. Youth Centre with watersports.

Canal Close, W10 5AY rbkc.gov.uk

SONG ACADEMY | SONGWRITING 17.00 12 to16yrs.

Holy Trinity Church, Brook Green, W6 7BL songacademy.co.uk 07710 023 743

WILL TO WIN | TENNIS 17.00 9 to 14 yrs mini tennis green/ challenger.

Will to Win Chiswick, Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk 020 8994 1466

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 18.00 Grade 5 Ballet; 19.00 Grade 5 Pointe work/dances.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

18.00 Pointe work beginners; 18.30 Grade 4 dances.

Ruskin Hall 16 Church Rd, Acton, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

OXYGEN SCHOOL OF TRAMPOLINING

HOGARTH YOUTH & COMMUNITY CENTRE SENIOR CLUB

20TH CHISWICK SCOUT GROUP

18.45 11yrs+.

Duke Rd, W4 2JR hogarthtrust.org.uk 020 8747 1999

18.00 12 to 16yrs intermediates.

Oxygen Freejumping, Unit 15, new Vision Industrial Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF oxygenfreejumping.co.uk 19.30 10½ to14yrs Scouts.

The Ranch, Chiswick House Car Park, Ellesmere Rd, W4 2QN 20th-chiswick-scouts.blogspot.co.uk

BIG KIDS (11+) FRIDAYS STAGECOACH CHISWICK

THEATRE STUDIO WEST

THE BAND PROJECT

EALING RUGBY CLUB

16.30 6 to18yrs Main Stages.

Strand on the Green School, Thames Rd, W4 3NX stagecoach.co.uk 020 3394 0818

10.00 10 to13yrs TSW Youth Company; 14 to19yrs TSW Senior Company.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Rd, W3 8PP theatrestudiowest.co.uk 020 8616 8846

11.00 - 13.00 & 14.00 - 17.00 11 to 16yrs Live performance and band based course.

Arch 196, Prebend Grdns, W6 0XT thebandproject.co.uk 07771 456 955

10.00 U13+ Girls and boys all standards up to county level.

Trailfinders Sports Club, Castle Bar, Vallis Way, West Ealing, W13 0DD ealingrugby.co.uk 07941 861 293

CANALSIDE ACTIVITY CENTRE

ESTA | THEATRE SCHOOL

11.00 9 to19yrs. Youth centre with watersports.

Canal Close, W10 5AY rbkc.gov.uk

10.30,16.30,18.00 12 to 18yrs.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

FOUCAN FREERUNNING ACADEMY

MIDI & MAXI BOARDERS SKATEBOARDING CLUB

STAGECOACK KENSINGTONG 16.30 6 to16yrs Main School.

Addison Primary School, Addison Grdns, Blythe Rd, W14 0DT stagecoach.co.uk/kensington

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 17.45 Intermediate Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

WESTWAY CLIMBING 18.00 12 to 18yrs.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 18.00 11yrs+ Senior Tap & Modern.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

HAYA | YOUTH THEATRE 18.15 13 to18yrs voice & speech training, audition technique, stage combat and more.

Watermans, 40 High Street, TW8 0DS thehuntacademy.co.uk

PARKOUR GENERATIONS | FREE RUNNING 18.45 7 to19yrs.

Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Rd, W2 5EZ parkourgenerations.com

SATURDAYS CHISWICK SATURDAY MUSIC CENTRE 09.10 All ages. Individual & group music lessons.

Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN (Staveley Road entrance) chiswicksaturdaymusic.org.uk 07513 012 373

WESTWAY CLIMBING | INDOOR CLIMBING 9.30, 10.30, 12.30, 16.00, 16.30, 18.00 12 to 18yrs. £176 per term.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

10.00 7 to18yrs term-time.

Ravenscourt Park Prep, 16 Ravenscourt Ave, W6 0SL estatheatreschool.com 020 8741 2843

STAGECOACH CHISWICK 10.00 & 14.30 6 to18yrs.

William Hogarth School, Duke Rd, W4 2JR stagecoach.co.uk 020 3394 0818

STAGECOACH KENSINGTON 10.00 & 14.30 6 to 18yrs Main Stages.

St Barnabas & St Philips School, 58 Earl’s Court Rd, W8 6EJ stagecoach.co.uk

YOURSPACE | DRAMA AND DANCE 10.00 11 to 16yrs drama and/or dance. Termly themes.

St Augustine’s Priory, Hillcrest Rd, W5 2JL www.yourspacedrama.com 07580 474 638

FOXES FC DEVELOPMENT SQUAD | FOOTBALL 10.00 - 12.00 Football training, match play & tournaments for children.

Ravenscourt Park, the North lawn, near the astro turf pitches. foxesfc.com 0207 376 0006

11.00 11yrs+ beginners.

Oxygen Freejumping, Vision Ind Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF foucan.com/ffa

CENTRE STAGE WORKSHOPS 11.30 12 to 16yrs.

Tabard Theatre, 2 Bath Rd, W4 1LW tabardtheatre.co.uk 020 8995 6035

WESTWAY CLIMBING

14.30 6yrs + Intermediate and advanced.

Westway Sports Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP mylittleboarders.co.uk 07801 824 688

BRENTFORD ARMY CADET FORCE ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES

POP SCHOOL & STAGE ACADEMY PERFORMING ARTS 12.00 12 to16yrs Senior Stage Academy.

Westside Community School, 8-30 Galena Rd, W6 0LT pssa.co.uk 07943 656 092

Take part in adventurous activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, archery and abseiling. Learn military skills such as drill, shooting and fieldcraft.

203 Brentford (RLC) Cadet Centre, Windmill Rd, W5 4BT 203brentfordacf.co.uk 020 8568 6044

THAMES YOUNG MARINERS

SUNDAYS CHISWICK SEA CADET UNIT SAILING & ADVENTURE TRAINING 10.00 Alternate Sundays. 12 to18yrs boys & girls.

The Pier House, Chiswick Pier, Corney Reach, W4 2UG sea-cadets.org/chiswick 020 7654 7000

Sailing courses for beginners Dinghy level 1 to Youth Sailing Scheme level 4. Powerboat courses for 8 to 11yrs.

Riverside Drive, Ham, Richmond, TW10 7RX surreycc.gov.uk/outdoorlearning 01372 378 901

OXYGEN SCHOOL OF TRAMPOLINING 11.00 12 to 16yrs beginners. new Oxygen Freejumping, Unit 15, Vision Industrial Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF oxygenfreejumping.co.uk

WILL TO WIN | TENNIS 10.00 12 to 16yrs Challenger drop-in.

Will to Win Chiswick, Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk 020 8994 1466

PARKOUR

GET LISTED! IF YOU WANT YOUR CLASSES INCLUDED IN OUR DIRECTORIES PLEASE CONTACT editor@citykidsmagazine.co.uk

10.30 11yrs+ Youth academy.

Watermans, 40 High Str, TW8 0DS parkourdance.co.uk

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 39

HOLIDAY CLUBS TO THE RESCUE PERFORMING ARTS ARTS ED

Chiswick | 4-16yrs Drama, musical performances, improv & imaginative play. www.artsed.co.uk

POP & STAGE SCHOOL ACADEMY

Chiswick | 4-18yrs Themed week-long camps www.pssa.co.uk

PERFORM

Shepherd’s Bush & Chiswick | 4-12yrs Drama, dance and singing www.perform.org.uk

SONG ACADEMY

Brook Green | 8-12yrs Write, produce, perform and record a song. www.songacademy.co.uk

THE ROYAL INSTITUTE OF BRITISH ARCHITECTS W1 | 7-18yrs Design workshops www.architecture.com

SPORT WILL TO WIN

Chiswick & Barnes | 4-16yrs Week-long tennis camps www.willtowin.co.uk

THE LITTLE GYM CHISWICK

Chiswick | 3-12yrs 3 hour themed camps www.thelittlegym.co.uk/chiswick

SPORTS GENERATION

Richmond | Various ages Swimming and football crash courses. www.sportsgeneration.co.uk

WESTWAY SPORTS CENTRE

Holland Park | 4-16yrs Tennis, football and climbing www.westwaysportscentre.org.uk

SKATEBOARDING CLUB

Westway / Westminster Academy / Royal Oak | 6yrs+ www.mylittleboarders.co.uk

EALING RIDING SCHOOL

Ealing | 5yrs+ Riding & stable management days www.ealingridingschool.biz

TEAMSPORT IN ACTON Acton | 8yrs+ Karting www.team-sport.co.uk

MULTI-ACTIVITY CHISWICK COURSES

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN

Shepherds Bush | Various ages www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk

Chiswick | 5yrs+ Golf & Tennis camps www.dukesmeadows.com

Acton | 5-16yrs Film-making, fashion, street dance, cookery, Lego and entrepreneur workshop www.chiswickcourses.co.uk

THEATREBUGS CHISWICK

THE LITTLE FOXES CLUB

LET ME PLAY

XBAND STUDIO SCHOOL OF ROCK POP AND MORE

ON THE BALL TENNIS

Chiswick | 3½-6yrs Acting, singing, dressing up www.theatrebugs.co.uk

DUKES MEADOWS

Acton, Chiswick & H’smith | 18mths - 12yrs Football, Tennis & Rugby Classes. www.thelittlefoxesclub.com - 0207 376 0006

Ealing | 8-18yrs www.xbandstudio.com

Ravenscourt Park | 5-15yrs Daily drop-in tennis camp www.ontheballtennis.co.uk

CHISWICK THEATRE ARTS

EXCEL SPORTS CAMPS

Chiswick | 4-14yrs www.chiswicktheatrearts.com

ART & DESIGN BADGER & EARL

Chiswick | All ages Sewing & craft www.badgerandearl.com

FUN WITH FIMO CLAY

Acton | 6yrs+ www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk

KITE STUDIOS

Shepherd’s Bush | Various ages Arts and crafts www.kitestudios.org

BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE South Bank|8-14yrs Half-term workshops www.bfi.org.uk

YOUNG FILM ACADEMY

Chelsea, St John’s Wood, Wimbledon | 8-19yrs 1- 4 day courses in film-making www.youngfilmacademy.co.uk 40 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Chiswick | 4-12yrs www.excelsports.org.uk

FIT FOR SPORT

Chiswick, Acton, Barnes | 3-12yrs www.fitforsport.co.uk

HARTSWOOD TENNIS CLUB Chiswick | 5-15yrs Drop-in holiday camps www.hartswoodtennis.co.uk

HEATHROW GYMNASTICS

Hammersmith | 11-19yrs Free activities including dance, drama, sport, cookery, art, fashion and music www.letmeplaysports2.moonfruit.com

ROYAL INSTITUTION

Mayfair | 7yrs+ Various science-based workshops www.rigb.org.uk

MAD SCIENCE

Various locations | 4-11yrs www.madscience.org.uk

TREEHOUSE LEARNING

Ham | 3-10yrs+ Forest school and bushcraft www.treehouselearning.co.uk

BEAR GRYLLS SURVIVAL ACADEMY Ealing & Barnes| 8-12yrs www.beargryllssurvivalacademy.com

Hounslow | 4-12yrs All abilities. www.heathrowgymnastics.org.uk

PICCOLO PLAYCENTRE

RICHMOND GYMNASTICS

HIGH FLIERS

Kew | 5-16yrs www.richmondgymnastics.co.uk

ROCKS LANE

Chiswick | 4-16yrs Multi sports and football www.rockslane.co.uk

Chiswick | 4-11yrs www.piccoloplaycentre.co.uk Ealing | 4-11yrs Themed fun weeks which include creative writing, ICT, scientific enquiry and sports team-building www.high-fliers.org.uk

MINIVERSITY

Chelsea | 4-12yrs Creative learning clubs www.miniversity.com

PARTIES PARTY VENUES THE LITTLE GYM CHISWICK University of Westminster Sports Ground Hartington Road, W4 3AN www.thelittlegym.co.uk 020 8994 3729 Games, music and fun activities

THE PARK CLUB East Acton Lane, W3 7HB www.theparkclub.co.uk 020 8743 4321 Parachute play, sports and themed parties

VIRGIN ACTIVE ACTON 36 Bromyard Avenue, W3 7AU www.virginactive.co.uk 020 8600 9600 Softplay & pool parties

BRENTFORD FOUNTAIN LEISURE CENTRE 658 Chiswick High Road, Brentford, TW8 0HJ www.fusion-lifestyle.com 0845 456 6675 Softplay & pool parties

WESTWAY SPORTS CENTRE 1 Crowthorne Road, W10 6RP www.westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992 Football, tennis, climbing parties

NEW CHISWICK POOL Edensor Road, W4 2RG www.fusion-lifestyle.com 0845 456 6675 Pool parties

ARUSH King’s House School Sports Ground, Riverside Drive, W4 2SH www.arush.co.uk 07773 775 445 Outdoor Laser Combat

ARCH 197

GAMBADO CHELSEA

ST PETER’S CHURCH PARISH ROOM

ST MARY’S CHURCH HALLS

Townmead Road, SW6 2PY www.gambado.com/clubs/chelsea/ 020 7384 1635 Tiger Tots, Tiger, Laser Tag and Build a Bear parties

Black Lion Lane, W6 9BE www.stpetersw6.org 020 8741 4848

1 The Mount, Acton High Street, W3 9NW www.stmaryacton.org.uk/ the-church-halls 020 8993 0422

AERIALAND

158 Rainville Road, W6 9HN www.rockingscots.co.uk/Dorsetwharfcommunityhall.html 07880 840 692

8-30 Galena Road, w6 0LT www.aerialand.com 07737 624 296 Aerial circus and acrobatics skills

HALLS FOR HIRE 3RD CHISWICK SCOUTS Wilson Walk, Off Prebend Gardens, Stamford Brook, W4 1PT 07947 354 554

Macbeth Street, W6 9JJ www.hfals.co.uk (under Room Hire)

CORINTHIAN SAILING CLUB

ST PAUL’S CHURCH

07949 268 378 Vintage Tea Parties & China Hire for birthdays, garden parties, baby showers etc.

SPRINKLED MAGIC

Queen Caroline Street, W6 9PJ www.sph.org/hiring 020 8748 3855

07525 708578 www.sprinkledmagic.co.uk Bespoke cupcakes and cakes for all occasions, plus a wide Free From range. Delivery nationwide available.

THE PIER HOUSE Corney Reach Way, W4 2UG www.chiswickpier.org.uk 020 8742 2713

PICCOLO PLAY CENTRE Hogarth Youth Centre, Duke Road, W4 2JR www.piccoloplaycentre.co.uk 07525 773 659

ST PAUL’S CHURCH 56 Grove Park Rd, W4 3SB www.stpaulsgrovepark.com 020 8994 3074

CHISWICK SCHOOL Burlington Lane, W4 3UN www.chiswickschool.org 020 8747 6699

SNAKES AND LADDERS

2 Dukes Avenue, W4 2AE 020 8994 9905

136 Bramley Road, W10 6TJ www.bramleysbig.co.uk 020 8960 1515 Soft play, various packages

SUGAR ROSE

MACBETH CENTRE

ST MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS

ALL SAINTS CHURCH

BRAMLEY’S BIG ADVENTURE

Friars Place Lane, W3 7AW www.stdunstanschurch.org.uk 020 8740 1383

SUPPLIES

Holy Innocents Church, Paddenswick Road, W6 0UB 020 8741 3230

Elmwood Road, W4 3DY www.stmichaels-elmwoodroad.org Priory Avenue, W4 1TX www.smaaa.org.uk 020 8994 1380

ST DUNSTAN’S EAST ACTON

JORDANS NURSERY

66 Upper Mall, W6 9TA www.linden-house.org 020 8748 1841

ST MICHAEL’S CENTRE

Prebend Gardens, W6 0XT www.arch197.com 020 8987 8788 Street Dance Syon Park, Brentford, TW8 8JF www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk 020 8847 0946 Soft play

DORSET WHARF COMMUNITY HALL

Bollo Bridge Road, W3 8AX bookings@actongreen.org

CHISWICK CATHOLIC CENTRE

MASBRO CENTRE 87 Masbro Road, W14 0LR www.upg.org.uk 020 7605 0800

GROVE NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE 7 Bradmore Park Road, W6 0DT 020 8741 3321

New website with more features, news and activities www.citykidsmagazine.co.uk

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 41

Boutique

EMI & NELL

BEHIND THE BRAND

Emi & Nell created their shop based on the belief that no matter what you do you can always look fabulous. So whether you’re after functional clothing, exclusive accessories or gifts with a real wow factor, Emi & Nell have you covered with perfectly chic yet practical items that both you and your little ones will love. www.emiandnell.co.uk

42 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

MOLO

There is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong kit. Muddy Puddles makes great value, technical outdoor clothes for children. Our mission is to clothe the world’s young adventurers. Playing outdoors leads to bigger imaginations, better concentration, amazing memories and healthier bodies We are: Practical: our clothes are made with parents and children in mind, from reflective strips and grippy soles to secret pockets and storm flaps.

Protective: Our clothes are 100% waterproof, windproof and durable, enabling kids to get outdoors and stay warm, dry and happy whatever the weather.

Passionate: we firmly believe in the benefits of outdoor play and learning, and have created a series of free outdoor events and activity sheets to facilitate this for parents, teachers and children.

www.muddypuddles.com

“

The idea for molo came from a lust to be ‘the naughty boy of the class’ and to spice up kids fashion.

We started from scratch in an apartment in Copenhagen with only two pairs of hands to do everything from designing, purchasing, sales, marketing, administration to logistics.

The world is full of clothes so in order to survive your brand should have a raison d’être, which is obtained through innovation.

Our AW15 collection has a couple of different design stories: 90’s rock’n’roll, glam rock and biker trends, and the ‘at leisure’ trend where some of the boys’ styles have a slightly sporty twist; and New York’s street scene, where the dominant features are baseball caps, chenille patches, prints with reference to the city’s street looks and more intense colours that light up the dark autumn season.

For shopping, we always visit Dover St. Market with its alternative spectrum of high-fashion labels, and explore small second hand stores like Rokit on Brick Lane.

For inspiration we love going to print libraries and Tate Modern. You have to go to Broadway Market, find a nice little café and spend hours of just watching people with a cup of coffee in your hand. It’s one of the best (and cheapest!) things to do in the always vibrant city.

www.molo.com

“

Emi & Nell is a London-based boutique offering a unique clothing destination for kids and a great range of décor items too! Founded by a mum with a passion for fashion, Monika, this shop aims to bring you a fresh, individual style of clothing and accessories. They carefully select the highest quality items from a small number of exclusive designers, bringing you pieces from brands such as nosweet, Kids on the moon and Pola&Frank. They look for the finest organic fabrics so that your little treasures not only look cool but feel comfortable too!

MUDDY PUDDLES

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Sheen 020 8090 2849 Westfield 020 8090 1216 Ealing 020 8090 8710 Explore Learning has over 90 centres nationwide.To find your nearest centre, visit our website. www.explorelearning.co.uk

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great green impressions

because we are aware and care

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Call 01273 494631 or email mrowland@evonprint.co.uk to find out more EVONPRINT GREEN ADVERT 190x118.indd 1

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Call 020 8740 4599 or visit theparkclub.co.uk The Park Club East Acton Lane West London W3 7HB