Families NW London Magazine issue 129 July/Aug 2019

IN THIS ISSUE

What to do with the kids this Summer!

Days Out Children’s Theatre Camps and Activities & MORE!

Issue 129 July/August 2019

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Welcome to the July/August issue!

IN THIS ISSUE: 5. Parenting 6. Education

CONTACT US: Families North West London Magazine Editors: Heather Waddington and Janine Mergler P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF T: 01923 237 004 E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk Listings and Features Editor: Anna Blackshaw E: Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

8. Days Out www.facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon @FamiliesNWLon Readership of over 60,000 local parents, carers and teachers every issue.

Published seven times a year. For families from birth to twelve.

UPCOMING ISSUES: September 2019 – Back to School and Local Clubs and Classes – Deadline: 10 August 2019

16. What’s On 20. Children’s Theatre

Cover image: depositphotos.com

2 October 2019 - Education and Schools - Deadline 6th Sept 2019 Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.

Where is Families North West London?

Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west.

You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know.

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12. Day Camps

Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com. Other images have been supplied by independent sources.

Families North West London Magazine is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families NW London Magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families North West London Magazine. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families North West London Magazine, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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NEWS 2019 RSPCA Young Photographer Awards now open for entries Celebrate Play on Playday UK! Playday is the national day for play in the UK, and will take place this year on Wednesday 7 August.

Playday is an annual celebration of children’s play with thousands of children and families playing outside at events across the UK. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of children’s play and the need for quality play opportunities every day of the year.

From small-scale community events to thousands of children taking part in events organised in parks and open spaces, Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them.

As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives.

You can hold and register your own Playday event or find one close to you by visiting www.playday.org.uk

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The prestigious annual photography competition offers young people up to the age of 18 the chance to win amazing prizes - in return for getting snap happy with pets, wildlife and other animals.

Whether the photo is taken on a mobile device or camera, there’s a category for every age, skill and type of equipment.

Three different age-groups (under 12s, 12-15 and 16-18) also mean that all youngsters are in with a chance.

Prizes this year will include camera equipment vouchers from sponsor Wex Photo Video, a photography break from sponsor Natures Images and Camtraptions, remote motion sensor technology.

The overall competition winner will be chosen by the judges from the winners of each category.

In addition, a selection of photos entered in the Mobile Phone category will be put to the public vote in Feb/March 2020. The photo with the most votes wins the People’s Choice Award.

Winners will be presented with their prizes at an awards ceremony hosted by Chris Packham held at the Tower of London on Wednesday 18 December 2019.

The closing date is 12 noon on Friday 16 August 2019. Entrants can submit their images online at: https://rspca.org.uk/ypa

Families North West London 3

NEWS ✁

Clip & Save!

Life’s a beach at intu Uxbridge Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside…and this summer you can as intu Uxbridge brings the beach to the centre, in yet another of its exciting family club experiences.

✁

From 1 to 31 August 11-4pm, families can enjoy building sandcastles, relax in a deck chair, get free candyfloss and most importantly, spend time together – all for free! Or brush off the sand and brush up on your table tennis skills as shoppers can play free table tennis at the centre’s pop-up Ping Pong Parlour from Tuesday 30 July – for six weeks.

Check out their Family Club where members can take advantage of exclusive discounts, freebies and be the first to hear about events just like the new Ping Pong Parlour!

Joining the intu family club is easy and free and can be done so at the customer information desk or online.

For more information, visit www.intu.co.uk/uxbridge/families

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Parenting

A New Approach to the Summer Holidays

By Susie Ramroop

So what I am about to suggest is potentially going to sound odd compared to your usual approach, but I am confident that it is going to uncover some new insight into your children, and help you with how to entertain them over the holidays.

I just asked my daughter what her priorities were for the summer.

This is her unedited response:

S

ummer is the time of year we all look forward to…but it comes with the added pressure of how on earth to occupy our children over the holidays and, for many, a degree of guilt about having to work. There’s no doubt about it - unless you are a teacher or very flexibly self-employed, the summer holidays can be a source of anxiety for working parents. Whilst I don’t advocate sharing the strain of this with the children, I do recommend a bit of creative responsibility on their part.

As parents we are auto programed to have all the answers, but perhaps we don’t need to. I have been coaching my 7 year old since she could talk, which basically translates to me asking more questions and making as few decisions for her as possible (unless it suits me of course!). The result is that she feels that she gets what she wants, and I get a version of events that was a lot easier than the version I had in my head.

1. Play more football 2. Go to new heights 3. Stop complaining all the time (this really is unedited!)

4. Spend more time outside 5. Use less water 6. Turn off the lights when we don’t need them As you can imagine I was surprised by these answers - no mention of theme parks or other expenses, no demands for specific play dates, and no need for new belongings. Instead, I learned something about her – she is currently interested in 3 main themes – the outdoors, positivity, and saving the planet.

If I had asked a different question, I may have gotten different answers, and so you may need to play around with this. What this exercise has allowed me to do is save time in guessing

what summer camp she might like – instead I need only look for football. My previous perception that she wants to stay inside all the time is now abandoned, and I am looking at projects where we may be able to volunteer together. Now, when I suggest doing outdoor activities, I can link it to this conversation and she will be more willing. In fact it might even feel like her idea!

Surprises await you with this exercise. Have fun with this, but be prepared to honour what they deem to be important. You can interpret the answers as you see fit; going to new heights could mean a roller coaster, but it could also mean a big hill with a view, which ticks the outdoors box too.

Best of all, don’t underestimate the contribution your child can make to the decisions you may feel are all down to you. Asking them to make choices is great decision making training for the future, and at some point you will notice them identifying what they can do to help before you even contemplate asking them.

Susie Ramroop is a Mindset Coach helping busy parents to focus on what truly makes a difference in life and at work. Please send any comments and questions to susie@ susieramroop.com. www.susieramroop.com

Open: Monday – Friday 8am to 6pm Year Round/Term-Time Ages: 3 months – 6 years • Excellent Standard of Care & Education • Qualified Montessori Staff • Safe Play Areas

We are an Ofsted Registered Independent Montessori Nursery School

• Nutritious meals prepared daily by our on-site chef

St Michael’s Church Annex St Michael’s Church Road Cricklewood NW2 6XG

0208 830 7331

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info@livingspringmontessori.com

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Education

5 Brain-Stimulating Activities to Keep Learning Alive this Summer The summer holidays are a great time for children to reboot and relax, but it’s also been reported they can lose 25% of what they’ve earned during the long break.

Claire Winter looks at how to keep their learning alive with ten brain-stimulating activities to do this summer.

world they live in. Comics and newspapers designed for kids like the Week Junior or First News, might appeal to kids who are not so keen on longer books. You could also reward reading with screen time on a favourite device or make bedtime a dedicated reading time.

• Have a Board Game Tournament

• Learn to Play a Musical Instrument

Tactical board games like Chess and Backgammon give the brain a workout.

Scrabble helps with vocabulary and Monopoly boosts Maths and money management skills. Games like Trivial Pursuit are great for learning general knowledge.

Not only are board games fun, but they also teach valuable lessons like being strategic, following instructions, learning how to lose, and communicating with other players.

Playing a musical instrument helps engage the brain, and the summer is a perfect time to learn something new as your child can practice daily without the distraction of a busy schedule. Learning a musical instrument can also help with learning languages too.

• Make Reading Fun

Documenting the summer on Instagram with pictures and captions is one way to get a child who loves social media platforms involved. If all else fails, encourage them to engage in the old-fashioned way and write stories with an actual pen and paper!

Getting younger children to write and send postcards when you are on holiday will boost their writing skills.

The annual Summer Reading Challenge, which inspires kids across the UK to read six books and collect rewards for doing so, is an excellent place to start. Sign up at your local library. To find out more check out www.summerreadingchallenge.org. uk. When your child reads they exercise their brain, they use their imagination and they gain valuable knowledge about the

• Write Stories and Post Cards

• Try Puzzles Number puzzles and Sudoku are great for improving the grey matter. Older children may enjoy a fun day at an escape room where they have to solve clues to get out.

The key to surviving the summer holidays is to mix it up. If you are working, book the kids into a scheduled summer camp or activities, and plan some exciting days out, plus some fun at home. This will ensure your child doesn’t suffer from the dreaded brain drain.

Call us to arrange an individual appointment

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Education

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Days Out

Days out with the kids this summer!

Alexandra Palace (N22) A whole wealth of activities to keep the family entertained over the holidays – the ice rink which is open year round, pitch and putt, soft play and the boating lake, as well as the Garden Centre and café. This year also sees the return of The Monster – the world’s biggest bouncy castle experience, taking place from 23rd – 28th August. www.alexandrapalace.com Alton Towers (ST10) Go and explore CBeebies Land - the only place where you can meet, join in, and play with all your favourite CBeebies characters. Don’t forget that children under three go free! If you fancy an overnight stay, Stargazing Pods are new for 2019 – they are perfect for families, and your 2nd day in the theme park is free! www.altontowers.com Aqua Park Rutland (LE15) The UK’s largest collection of bespoke big impact water obstacles is now open for the summer. The new lay out for 2019 measures over 100m by 80m and features climbing walls, trampolines, balance bars, slides, and blast bags - the ultimate day out for groups, families, adults, children and adrenaline junkies! www.aquaparkrutland.co.uk ★FREE★ Bank of England Museum (EC2R) Free summer holiday activities for all the family! 325 years, 325 objects: explorer trail from Mon 22 Jul to Fri 30 Aug, 10am to 4.30pm. The Bank of England is 325 years old this summer, and their brand new exhibition uses 325 objects to tell a story from each one of their 325 years. Pick up a free trail sheet from the information desk and go on a journey of discovery to find out how things have changed over time. Then hand in your completed sheet to claim your small prize.

You can also make your very own gold-bar shaped moneybox to decorate and take home. www.bankofengland.co.uk

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Belmont Farm (NW7) Belmont Farm offers a unique opportunity for anyone, young or old, to meet, handle and feed a huge variety of farm animals. Being the only public farm of its size within the M25, Belmont is the perfect place for Londoners to experience a real working farm, hands on. Go down and visit to see over 30 different animal varieties; from cows to exotic lovebirds, pet the bunnies, feed the goats, and jump aboard the tractor and trailer ride to discover even more! www. belmontfarm.co.uk Chessington World of Adventures (KT9) New for 2019 - Room on the Broom - A Magical Journey. Experience the much-loved children’s story coming to life as you visit the enchanted library, the start of your magical journey. www.chessington.com Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) Chiltern Open Air Museum is no ordinary museum – there are no objects in glass cases there. Instead, it is a museum of buildings set in the beautiful outdoors… The 45 acre site has over 30 historic buildings and a working Victorian farm with livestock. None of the buildings were originally built there, they were moved from their original locations and reconstructed on the Museum site when they were in danger of being demolished.

The buildings are all either the homes or workplaces of ordinary people who lived in the Chilterns. All of the buildings are filled with artefacts or old objects, so you can find out about how people lived and worked in the past. Over the summer months every weekend there is a special event including historical re-enactments, costumed characters or demonstrations of traditional crafts. Every Tuesday in the holidays is a Terrific Tuesday with special themed family activities all included in the standard admission price. www.coam.org.uk

Cloud 9 Leisure (WD25) Imagine a giant inflatable world which combines the fun, challenge and excitement of Ninja Warrior, Gladiator and Total Wipeout! Cloud 9 at Francis Coombe School in Watford is an incredibly new, exciting, active leisure experience for all ages. From a giant inflatable obstacle course and dodgeball arena to a 1v1 battle platform, the fun is endless with plenty more surprises in store. www.cloud9leisure.com Discover Children’s Story Centre (E15) Discover Children’s Story Centre in Stratford, will be hosting an exhibition inspired by the treasured children’s books from acclaimed author Judith Kerr. ‘The Tiger Who Came to Tea and the Adventures of Mog the Forgetful Cat’ will be open to the public until September 2019. The immersive 3D exhibition will take visitors through a giant cat-flap and into the world of Kerr’s cherished characters including Mog the Forgetful Cat, Katinka, and of course the very hungry Tiger Who Came to Tea. www.discover.org.uk Go Jump In (WD6) Who knows what mother nature will throw at us this summer! Bring the outdoors in at Jump In Trampoline Park in Elstree! With the Summer Pass you can get 5 one-hour jumps for £35 or 10 one-hour jumps for just £60! Pick up one of our Summer Passes to keep jumpin’ all summer long.

Summer passes can be purchased now for use up to 31st August 2019. Passes can be used for friends and family to enjoy Jump In together. www.gojumpin.com Gulliver’s Land (MK15) Thrill rides, fun rides, family rides, indoor rides, attractions, shows and play areas. From the Runaway Train to the Jungle River Ride and classic Dodgems there are plenty of exciting rides to ensure that all the family have a fun day out. The picnic areas help to make this an affordable family day out. www.gulliversfun.co.uk

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Days Out Hampton Court Palace (KT8) Take the kids along to the The Magic Garden and let their curiosity and imagination run wild. Come face to face with mysterious mythical beasts, storm the battlements, besiege the towers and explore the secret grotto in this magical children’s playground. The Magic Garden at Hampton Court provides a new and unique way for your family to explore the palace’s past. www.hrp.org.uk Hertfordshire Sports Village (AL10) For those rainy days, Herts Sports Village have plenty of activities and sports sessions to keep your children active at. They cater for all children between the ages of 0 – 17 years and offer a range of activities over the holidays including Climbing, Swimming, Multi Sports & Youth Fitness.

Centrally located in Hatfield, the Sports Village is minutes from Welwyn Garden City and St Albans, with plenty of parking on site. www.hertssportsvillage.co.uk Jungle Monkeyz (HA5) Jungle Monkeyz is a unique indoor children’s activity center in Pinner with two amazing attractions.

Jungle Monkeyz Soft Play is a multi-tiered soft play centre providing a safe, secure and stimulating play environment for toddlers and juniors. Jungle Monkeyz Adventure is a brand new fully immersive and interactive walk through family experience.

The two-hour adventure takes you on a journey through the Mayan jungle and lost temples in search of the stolen gems of virtue.

Working with your little one(s) and led by the jungle guide, your mission is to find each of the seven gems and return them to Alex the Monkey and his dad. www.junglemonkeyz.co.uk ★FREE★ Kensington Gardens (W2) Head to Kensington Gardens and you’ll find the Diana Memorial Playground, a free children’s wonderland opened in memory of the late Princess. There is a sensory trail, teepees, a beach around the pirate ship and various toys and play sculptures; all set against a lush backdrop of trees and plants. There’s plenty of seating so the grownups can relax too. Inspired by the stories of Peter Pan, the playground encourages children to explore and follow their imaginations, learning whilst they play.www.royalparks.org.uk Knebworth House and Gardens (SG3) The famous Dinosaur Trail in the Wilderness Garden is very popular with younger visitors. 72 life-sized dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures can be found grazing amongst the shrubbery. Look out for the wind-up sound box and make some dinosaur roars! Children can also play on the swings, slides and play equipment at the Adventure Playground. There is also a zip wire and a new bouncy castle, plus a trim trail for grownups. Have fun with the interactive splash-play water features. www.knebworthhouse.com Legoland Windsor (SL4) Guests can now see LEGO City come to life in a new 4D movie; LEGO® City 4D - Officer in Pursuit! complete with special effects including smoke, fire and water!

There’s a fang-tastic new ride, The Haunted House Monster Party, home to the frightfully friendly Lord Vampyre and his monster friends. LEGO fans can discover the The LEGO® MOVIE™ 2 Experience and explore an actual LEGO® set as seen in “The LEGO® MOVIE™ 2”. Families will be amazed by the details that go into making this 3D animated blockbuster movie. www.legoland.co.uk ★FREE★ London Bridge City – Summer by the River (SE1) London’s largest free festival returns to London Bridge, with events continuing until until 1st Sep. The largest free arts and entertainment festival of its kind in London will feature open air cinema and theatre, big screen summer sports, live comedy and music performances, fun family days, fitness classes and a host of events to let your hair down on a Friday - the ultimate London experience this summer. www.londonbridgecity.co.uk/events ★FREE★ Museum of London (EC2Y Uh-oh… It looks like some of the beasts from the Beasts of London experience are starting to get restless… They’ve escaped into the galleries and your help is needed to find them! Can you seek them out in the galleries and find them all? Don’t forget to ask a host for help… there may be some extra escapees… Ask a member of staff when you arrive for your free trail. This is a self-guided activity from 27 Jul to 1 Sep, so stop by anytime. www.museumoflondon.org.uk ★FREE★ Museum of London Docklands (E14) Go and discover the history of London. There are numerous free family activities taking place throughout the summer, and you can also discover the secrets of London’s historic waterways at the new major exhibition ‘Secret Rivers’. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands ★FREE★ Natural History Museum (SW7)A trip to the Natural History Museum is the perfect family day out in London this summer. Get up-close with nature, discover fascinating creatures and intriguing science, and enjoy fun, family-friendly activities for curious kids and inquisitive parents. There is so much to explore in the galleries (including your favourite dinosaurs!) and there are free and low-cost activities running every day. With family exhibitions, plenty of hands-on, interactive activities and actionpacked school holiday programmes, there’s something for children of all ages. www.nhm.ac.uk Continued on page 10

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Days Out Paradise Wildlife Park (EN10) Go & visit Paradise Wildlife Park this Summer Holidays!

They are home to over 800 wonderful animals and over 30 life size, moving animatronic Dinosaurs. You can visit the Big Cats territory to see tigers, White Lions, Jaguars, snow leopards and more, and the kids can run wild in 5 indoor & outdoor play areas! www.pwpark.com Parkside Farm Pick Your Own (EN2) Nearly 20 different fruits and vegetables are grown exclusively for Pick-Your-Own between June and October. Crops include “table-top” strawberries (no bending required), raspberries, beans and sweetcorn. The farm is set in the beautiful rolling greenbelt countryside just to the north of Enfield, and yet is easily accessible from all the surrounding areas. www.parksidefarmpyo.co.uk Paulton’s Park & Peppa Pig World (SO51) The UK’s number one family theme park with over 70 exciting rides and attractions to enjoy. Paultons is home to the UK exclusive and world’s first Peppa Pig World with 9 fun Peppa-themed rides, a large indoor Playzone and even Muddy Puddles to jump and play in! Lost Kingdom is the unique Jurassic land that is home to the mighty Flight of the Pterosaur suspended rollercoaster, the thrilling Velociraptor coaster, lifelike moving Dinosaurs and much more! www.paultonspark.co.uk Roald Dahl Museum (HP16) Visit the Roald Dahl Museum, a great little family attraction in the heart of Roald Dahl country. Get hands-on in the three galleries, packed with activities perfect for 6 to 12 year olds and their families. Find out about Roald Dahl’s school pranks, peek into the author’s original Writing Hut, and discover how Roald Dahl’s real-life adventures inspired his stories. The Museum puts your imagination centre-stage to help you and your family create your own swashboggling stories - just like Roald Dahl did. www.roalddahl.com/museum Royal Museums Greenwich (SE10 A top-10 UK visitor attraction, Royal Museums Greenwich is home to the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the iconic historic sailing ship Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Queen’s House art gallery. All the attractions are located within easy walking distance of each other within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

All museums are family friendly, and hold regular events to keep everyone busy! www. rmg.co.uk ★FREE★ Science Museum (SW7) Explore the numerous family friendly exhibitions, films, activities and events at the Science Museum this summer. Why not download the ‘Treasure Hunters’ app - accept challenges, create your very own tour of the museum, and battle against your friends and family. Taking part is as easy as taking a photo. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk Sea Life London (SE1) Visit the Rainforest Adventure where Ranger Andy invites you to immerse yourself in a world of creepy crawlies,

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charming crocs, and curious critters. Ocean Invaders welcomes you to enter the world of Jellyfish , stepping into the UK’s largest jellyfish experience. And how do you fancy meeting some of the ‘locals’? Dive in and learn all about the friendly rays - you’ll find them in the Ray Lagoon. www.visitsealife.com/london Stay Play Explore (various) Stay Play Explore short breaks are a fantastic collection of great value for money escapes for families. All packages include bed and breakfast and a choice of exceptional experiences, including destinations such as Leicestershire, Warwick and Stratford-upon-Avon. You can create your perfect break, whether it’s quality time away with the family or an escape with friends or loved ones there’s plenty of choices to keep everyone happy without breaking the bank. www.stayplayexplore.co.uk ★FREE★ Stepney City Farm (E1) A working farm, rural arts centre and community meeting place which gives children and adults a chance to meet farm animals, learn how to grow food and try out arts and crafts. The Farm is free to all visitors and everyone is welcome. Go along on the last Sunday of the month for Family Farm Club, which will have free drop in activities for children and accompanying adults. www.stepneycityfarm.org ★FREE★ Tate Modern (SE1) Every day pick up free family activities in the Clore Welcome Room on Level 0, Natalie Bell Building or from the Hello Families cube. Collect Cone, Sculpture Strip or the Time-traveller activity.

For younger visitors, Collection Case invites a hands on exploration connected to the Materials and Objects display on L4, Natalie Bell Building.www.tate.org.uk Thorpe Park (KT16) Try Bouncezilla during your visit to Thorpe Park this summer - It’s big, it’s bold and it’s definitely bouncy – the most outrageous and brilliantly bonkers inflatable assault course in the UK! Bounce past obstacles, tumble through tunnels and slide your way to the finish! BounceZilla is reserved between the hours of 10am12pm each morning for families with young children aged 6-13 and for those who want to experience it at a slower pace. www.thorpepark.com Tower Bridge (SE1) Celebrating 125 years since opening on 30 June 1894, Tower Bridge is a perfect day out for the family, with plenty of fun activities. Download the Family Learning Programme now and let the fun begin! Families can also download the free Family Trail app and begin exploring Tower Bridge like never before. There is also a Family Trail booklet available, designed for the youngest visitors and those without smartphones, meaning everyone can enjoy a day of family fun, exploration and imaginative learning! www.towerbridge.org.uk ★FREE★ V&A Museum of Childhood (E2) Did you know that you can pick up free activity packs for children when you visit the museum? Designed by Montessori, a selection of family packs for under 5s are available

to borrow from the Information Desk. Each pack contains a map, activity suggestions, storybooks and toys to touch, and are all aimed at different age ranges. The Museum has lots of free fun things to do for all ages, from exhibitions and displays to activities for children. A great way to spend a day! www.vam.ac.uk/moc Wembley Stadium Tours (HA9) The Wembley Stadium Tour lets you explore the behindthe scenes of the UK’s largest sports and music venue. Taking you deep in to the heart if the stadium , visit the Dressing Rooms, the Press Conference Room, Players’ Tunnel, Pitch side and the iconic Royal Box. From England’s glorious 1966 World Cup victory, UEFA Champions League triumphs or sell out concerts and sporting spectacles, the Wembley Stadium Tour gives you the chance to relive your greatest moments, and create some new ones of your own in the most famous Stadium in the world. www.bookings.wembleytours.com Wicksteed Park (NN15) Along with 30 exciting rides and activities, including one of Europe’s longest zip wires, there’s 147 acres of beautiful rolling parkland – perfect for a game of frisbee, or a big family picnic. Stay the night in the cosy campsite, wander round the woods, or jump aboard the UK’s most popular narrow gauge railway – there’s more to do than you can shake a shilling at. www. wicksteedpark.org Willows Activity Farm (AL4) Summer Spectacular from 20 Jul - 1 Sep. Every day the packed programme will include Willows’ A-maize-ing Maze, the Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground, summer sports day races and live shows with Peter Rabbit and his friends.

All of the shows and activities are included in the ticket price and discounted tickets can be booked online in advance. www.willowsactivityfarm.com Woburn Safari Park (MK17) Choose from a Road Safari or Foot Safari to see all the park has to offer. Once you’ve met the wild beasties of the African reserves, journeyed through the Kingdom of the Carnivores and been face to face with the cheeky monkeys in the Jungle reserve, you can brave the heights of the Treetops Action Trail, take a ride on the Great Woburn Railway, and take a pedal around Swan Lake. You can also meet Catboy from PJ Masks on 4th Aug, and Chase from Paw Patrol on 18th Aug. www.woburnsafari.co.uk ZSL Whipsnade Zoo (LU6) Have you ever wanted to know what animals get up to at night? Now’s your chance with Nature Night Camping at the Zoo. Pitch your tent on the main lawn and spend the evening discovering what both native and exotic animals get up to at night. Learn what to look for when tracking them down before going on a torchlight expedition around the Zoo to see what you can find and who is still awake! Running on selected dates in 2019, there are limited tickets available for this exciting experience, so book early to avoid disappointment. www.zsl.org

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WHAT’S NEW?

Tried and tested for summer!

Whether it’s rain or shine this summer we found a few things that could make your summer run smoother, happier and healthier!

Sun Cream with Built-in Repellent that Helps our Oceans!

Packed in environmentally friendly sugarcane petroleumfree plastic, the incognito SPF 30 Second Skin Suncream has a built-in insect repellent and moisturiser and contains an effective natural formula designed to help our oceans, whilst repelling those pesky mozzies… incognito SPF 30 Second Skin Suncream is suitable for use by children from 2 years.

RRP £25 www.lessmosquito.com.

Get them listening with Tonies Easy to use for children 3+, Tonie is a lovely portable listening system to keep your wee ones entertained this summer. Simply pop the hand-painted Tonie figure on the wifi connected Tonie box and the classic tale will start playing. With over 35 Tonies available to collect, there’s no end to the fun stories little ones can enjoy, whether it’s on a car journey, in the playroom or as a story before bed.

Tonies Starter Set is RRP £79.95 tonies.com

Slipfree footwear Whether at home, in the garden or on holiday by the pool or beach, Slipfree® shoes give parents peace of mind whilst their little ones are running around enjoying themselves. Made from a light, flexible, quickdrying and breathable fabric, they are the next best thing to bare feet but with the added protection of a firm grip sole. They are super comfortable, easy to swim in and can be used almost anywhere! With sizes ranging from an infant size 2 to a men’s size 11, Slipfree® have the whole family covered.

Innovative launch to help parents control gaming Invented by an entrepreneurial parent of teenage children, the POWAcable® is a replacement mains power cable for the games console which can be controlled by the parent using a simple mobile phone app. The internal microchip monitors when the games console is in use or on standby and allows the parent to check back to see when and for how long the child has been playing. When the time runs out, the power to the console simply cuts off. Removing the POWAcable® sends a warning to the parent’s app, so there are no cheats on this level!

RRP £29.99 www.powacable.com

FamilyHub B9 Systems, a UK based internet safety and privacy specialist, launches the ‘FamilyHub’, It allows parents to see how much time their kids are spending on their devices, how much time they are on specific sites, games and apps and how to block connections they deem to be dangerous or concerning.

With this device, parents can also limit their activity on social media, games and websites and set rewards for their children to use the internet less.

RRP £49.99/month inc. 12 month subscription to the B9 cyber protection service www.b9s.net

RRP £14.95 for children’s and £18.95 for adults www.iloveslipfree.co.uk

Playbrush Encourage the recommended brushing of teeth for 2 minutes, twice daily with the fantastic manual toothbrush attachment which connects to a number of games via the PlayBrush app.

Offering 4 free interactive games to motivate your children into brushing their teeth for longer and all around their mouth. The brushing coach with audio instructions measures the exact position, duration and regularity of each session to provide instant feedback and statistics, all while dancing your way to tooth brushing stardom in ‘Utoothia Dance’ or releasing your inner artist in ‘Utoothia Paint’.

RRP starting from £19.99 from PlayBrush

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Rock Balancing is the perfect activity for the whole family!

Do you wish you had an easy activity that you can do anywhere and requires no equipment? Check out the ancient practice of stacking stones atop one another to create towers is given a new lease of life and brought to the mainstream just in time for summer.

With key tips on how to achieve the perfect balance as well as mindfulness activities, this is the perfect book for helping your children grow their confidence, patience and concentration this summer through a fun, outdoor activity.

The Rock Balancer’s Guide by Travis Ruskus £14.99 https://www. travisruskus.com/

Families North West London 11

Summer Camps

Day Camps for the Summer Holidays Our extensive listing of upcoming local opportunities to keep the kids happy, entertained and engaged out of term time.

Camp Beaumont

DAY CAMPS Aqua Vie are doing Regular weekly Tues Wed and Sunday classes in Bushey during term times. Spaces for new babies Tues, Wed and new group Adult swim classes. Learn mindful effortless swimming in a calm environment in warm water. Use less effort, swim further and experience the joy of water.

Email office@aqua-vie.com tel 01923 245 773 www.Aqua-Vie.com Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) Children’s Arts and Crafts activity club ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and holidays. Parent Toddler Group (aged 1-4 yrs); After-school/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs).

Contact to book your place: Keshma: 07419343105 E: Keshma. artzania@gmail.com Camp Beaumont Summer day camps adventures for 3 to 16 year olds from 8th Jul to 23rd Aug at Billericay, Blackheath, Croydon, Esher, Guildford, Hampstead, Mill Hill, Northwood, Putney, Reigate, Richmond, Tunbridge Wells, Woodford Green, Wimbledon, Woking. Bored kids? Early mornings? Late meeting?

Our multi-activity day camps are taking place across 16 locations throughout Greater London and London this summer. We’re here to relieve school holiday boredom and make school holiday childcare easy and FUN with a choice of 40 exciting activities from zorbing to biscuit decorating. Happy kids means happy parents – and vice versa! www.campbeaumont.co.uk/summer/

12 Families North West London

Cinnamon Square (WD3) Baking workshops take place during the school holidays. Classes include chocolate making, classic cake making, cupcakes and an all-round baking workshop. The 2 hour hands-on sessions, which combine learning with fun, are suitable for 5 years and upwards. Everything the children make they take home with them including recipe sheets to continue baking at home.www.cinnamonsquare.com DiscoG Coding Academy will be running a series of hands-on coding bootcamps on the Python programming language for children aged 6 - 8, 9 - 14, GCSE and A Level students. Join us to learn the language that writes the future. Call Gerard on: 07767300940 www.discogcodingacademy.com Location: 504 Kenton Lane, Harrow, HA3 8RD Echo’s Equestrian Centre – Summer Hoof Camp from. Open to kids from the age of 5+, get the chance to experience what it would be like to own your own pony. Each day consists of approx. 1 hour group riding, lots of hands on stable management and fun and creative theory. Sessions are 9am – 5pm. www. echosequestrian.co.uk The Elms School Holiday Multi-Sports Camps – Action packed daily sports camps running in Stanmore, Hatch End, Ruislip, Barnet, Watford and many more areas! Football, hockey, tennis, netball and many more sports for ages 4-12 years. 020 8954 8787 www.elmsholidaycamps.co.uk

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Summer Camps Future Stars Theatre Arts (HA5) Run an amazing Summer Academy each year which is held at The Harrow Arts Centre.

Students work towards professional performances, firstly to increase their confidence and secondly for parents to see first-hand how their child’s ability is developing. Their shows are exceptional, be prepared to be amazed at what your child achieves at Future Stars! Give your child a confident start! info@ futurestarstheatrearts.co.uk 07912538656 www.futurestars.co.uk Harrow Arts Centre - Summer Music Camp - Thurs 25 – Wed 31 July, 9:30am - 5pm for ages 7-12 years. A special 5-day extravaganza of music, singing, craft, dance and FUN!! You will learn how to sing, dance and play the steel pans, ukulele and drums in sessions provided by professional instrumental teachers from Harrow Music Service, culminating in a finale performance to family and friends! Optional breakfast and board games club from 8.30am – 9.30am. www.harrowarts.com

Camp Stagecoach

Forever Green Forest School: Family Forest School. Sessions in the woods for the whole family during the school holidays.

Activities include fire lighting, toasting some delicious food on the fire, make a woodland bracelet or keyring, fun games and more! Places must be booked and paid for in advance. www. forevergreenforestschool.com Fun Fest Holiday Club Watford at Cassiobury Junior School Fun Fest Holiday Club is different because it offers children a choice about how they spend their holidays. With a menu of exciting activities to choose from every morning and afternoon, children can plan their own individual holiday programme and develop social and physical skills. Fun Fest Holiday Club is Ofsted registered for children from 3 years and run by qualified and experienced childcare practitioners along with sports coaches and enthusiastic students. Tel: 07892721317 www.fun-fest.co.uk watfordoffice@funfestholidayclub.co.uk

Harrow Woodcraft Folk Fun & freedom in the countryside, at their weekend camps all summer, for all the family. Camp craft such as putting up tents & fire lighting; group games in the fields and woods; exploring nature; arts and crafts and campfire songs & stories. Call 0208 428 2409 www.woodcraft.org.uk Hertfordshire Sports Village have a range of activities over the holidays for children aged 0 – 18. Activities include Multi-Sports Day Camps, Unlimited Soft Play, Swimming and much more.

An ideal childcare solution for working parents during school holidays, parents can drop children off between 8-9am and pickup between 4-5pm. www.hertssportsvillage.co.uk Continued on page 14

11+ Mock Tests

SW Consortium /Watford 11+

QE Boys subjects

Saturday 13 July 2019 ............................... 3pm - 5pm Saturday 3 August 2019 ............................ 2pm - 4pm Nascot Wood Junior School, Nascot Wood Road, Watford WD17 4YS

From £30 per paper including detailed feedback

BOOK NOW www.mocktestmasters.com FEEDBACK includes:

✔ Detailed report on your child’s strengths and weaknesses ✔ Access to mock test questions and answers ✔ Uniquely, all exam formats - just like the real exam!

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Families North West London 13

Summer Camps Continued from page 13

Hillingdon Outdoor Activities Centre (HOAC) Sailing, Windsurfing, Kayaking and Land activities for 5-18 yr olds.01895 824 171 www.hoac.net

staff. Full day, half day booking, Childcare vouchers except & tax free childcare. 07794078452 Elmgrove road Harrow. holidays@activetime.co.uk www. activetime.co.uk

Holidaytime Holiday Club – Holiday club open 7.30am-6pm for children aged 2-13 years. Indoor and outdoor space. , sports, arts and crafts, cooking, trips, workshops, free time. Qualified and experienced

Huzzah Performing Arts - Looking for a Summer Holiday Camp that has your child’s wellbeing at heart? Huzzah Performing Arts and Mindfulness Summer Holiday Clubs are the perfect answer. For calm,

creative & confident kids. Ages 4 - 12. www. huzzahperformingarts.com. 02039767171 Ignite Tennis (HA3) A great way for kids to stay active and use their brains by learning a skill. Staying Fit and Healthy during the school holidays is quite a challenge these days, so join in this fun holiday programme.

3 Camps accommodating 3yrs – 16yrs.

Main Camp Tennis in the morning and a mixture of multiple sports in the afternoon.

Summer courses running from 15th July to 23rd August. info@ignitetennis.co.uk 07852 180905 ignitetennis.co.uk Jigsaw Summer Schools – designed to provide enjoyable and stimulating performing arts activities for students during the school holidays. The sessions are split into age groups of 3 to 5 years and 5 to 16 years. 020 8447 4530 www. jigsaw-arts.co.uk Kids Can Achieve Run playschemes for children with additional needs. The playscheme is all about your child having fun through play and structured activities, and sessions are arranged around constructive play, arts and crafts, outdoor play and swimming. 020 8420 2300 www. kidscanachieve.co.uk Little Big Leaders Summer School at London Academy and Bushey Academy.

Reading Programme (Phonics & Writing), English and maths. Monday - Friday (4 hours). Childcare vouchers accepted. www.littlebigleaders.com Little Kickers Courses running throughout the summer. Football training for kids from 18 months to under 7 years. Ruislip, Pinner, Harrow, Harefield, Rickmansworth & Watford jodiesloan@littlekickers. co.uk 0208 123 9346. Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet jlevene@ littlekickers.co.uk 0208 201 1084. Bushey & Harrow HA3 0208 422 0676 www.littlekickers.co.uk Monkey Music workshops are a popular way to keep children entertained during the holidays. Unlike the regular classes where children are strictly grouped according to age, the holiday workshops cater for a mixed age group of children.

Older siblings love joining in the fun and we also welcome friends and visitors. Book early to avoid disappointment.

0208 427 6595 www.monkeymusic.co.uk NumberWorks‘nWords Maths and English tuition classes which will target identified needs to improve achievement levels.

Catering for all levels from 4 to 16 years old. Specialised programmes for 7+, 11+ and SATs. www.numberworks.co.uk 0208 868 7672 eastcote@numberworks.com Perform - There’s no place like Perform this summer. We’re off to see the wizard this summer, as we sing and dance our way down the yellow brick road in our Wizard of Oz holiday courses. With colourful costumes, uplifting songs and dazzling dancing, your child will have the best fun of the summer as we bring this story to life.

Book online at perform.org.uk/wizard Age range: 4-10 years. Dates: 12th – 16th August.

Five-day course. 10am to 3pm each day.

Venue: St Luke’s Parish Hall, Love Lane, Pinner, HA5 3EX Contact:: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@ perform.org.uk.

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Summer Camps Places are limited, so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment! www.stagecoach.co.uk/harrow or call Emmy on 0203 504010

Camp Beaumont

Raviv Practice London - Prevent regression in the school holidays- Keep your child’s brain stimulated and improve academic performance during the holidays. Raviv Practice London offers three evidencebased computer programs that present the perfect compromise between play and work. One-to-one intervention scientifically proven to improve your child’s grades.

Contact Usha Patel -Raviv Practice London- on 0203 887 0486.

All Aboard, Ruislip Baptist Church Summer Holiday Club - Monday 29th July - Friday 2nd August 10am - 12.15pm and 6.30pm - 7.45pm. Join us for a week of fun, craft, team challenge, cooking, bible stories and singing. Register online via our website, we look forward to seeing you. www.ruislipbaptistchurch.org

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The Sharpe Academy Musical Theatre Intensive, for ages 6-18, includes a full week of Ballet, Tap, Modern, Acrobatics, Musical Theatre, Jazz, Stage Combat, Singing, Drama, Acting for TV & Film and all students present an end of week theatre showcase. www.sharpeacademy.co.uk Stagecoach - Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools will be running summer workshops for 4-7 years and 7-18 year olds. 29th Jul-2nd Aug 2019. 7-18 year olds will experience the process of casting, rehearsing and performing, Monday to Friday 10-4pm during the workshop week.

Also running, are half day or full day workshops which give all 4-7 year olds the chance to experience a few very busy and fun days of drama, singing and dance!

Sylvia Young Theatre School - If your child would like to work with the top teachers from The Sylvia Young Theatre School (Marylebone) then why not join a one week Theatre Skills holiday school.

This fun filled busy course is open to anyone aged 7-18 years and offers Drama/ Audition Technique, Singing / Microphone Technique, Street Dance and Basic Circus Skills. Musical Theatre Performance weeks are also available. Hurry - some holiday courses are now sold out! One week courses run between 22nd July to 16th Aug, £310.00 per week. www.syts.co.uk Type IT! Typing Crash Courses for children age 10+. Learn to touch type in just one week with our fun, interactive tutor-led typing courses. Courses running during half terms and Easter and Summer holidays. To book contact Type IT! on 020 8434 7111. www.touchtypeit.co.uk

MORE

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Families North West London 15

What’s On

What’s On

listings for all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing (Sept 2019 issue) send your entry by 10th August 2019 .Email Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

JULY Until Tue 23 Jul – Summer on Screen (HA9) Wembley Park have announced this year’s Summer on Screen programme, a specially curated film season featuring Hollywood Blockbusters, Sing-A-Long Classics and South Asian Cinema presented exclusively by Tongues on Fire. Members of the public will be able to enjoy the free outdoor screenings from deck chair seating in Arena Square, set against the dramatic backdrop of The SSE Arena, Wembley. www.wembleypark.com/summeronscreen Sat 13 Jul – Lots for Tots Sale Ruislip (HA4) A busy sale where you can find great quality, second-hand baby and toddler equipment, clothes, toys and more, at bargain prices! At Dean Park Hall in Ruislip from 2-4pm. Entry £1, free parking. www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk Sat 13 Jul - Festival of Archaeology Launch Day (WC1B) Get inspired by the amazing world of archaeology at this family friendly launch day at the British Museum!

Meet the Romans in their camp and real archaeologists, explore ancient and new technologies - and enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of history. Free, just drop in between 11am and 4pm. www. britishmuseum.org Sat 13 Jul - TogetherFest 2019 (N12)

16 Families North West London

TogetherFest is artsdepot’s annual celebration of creativity and the community. Watch local artists and groups perform on the Community Stage, join workshops and classes, and explore the venue – games, performances, arts and crafts and many more activities await! www.artsdepot.co.uk Sat 13 Jul - British Museum Sleepover: Discover Manga (WC1B) Children and their families are invited to discover the world of manga. Through craft workshops, participatory activities and storytelling sessions, families can enjoy the Japanese art form and explore the Citi exhibition Manga. At the end of the evening, they’ll spend the night sleeping in the Egyptian and Assyrian galleries, surrounded by kings and gods from the ancient world. In the morning there will be breakfast, followed by a film screening of the Studio Ghibli masterpiece My Neighbor Totoro.

All children must be accompanied by an adult. www.britishmuseum.org Sat 13 Jul – Sat 7 Sep - Summer Reading Challenge (various) Are you ready to launch into outer space for 2019’s Space Chase Challenge? This year’s Summer Reading Challenge from The Reading Agency will see an Astronaut team of joiners chasing across the skies to capture the rogue aliens who are taking off with Hertfordshire Libraries books. You are needed to join the challenge in celebration of 50 years since the first moon landing.

This is a great opportunity to develop skills and enjoy reading as a

family. To take part in the challenge, children will need to join and read any six library books and collect the stickers for your mission folder. Every child that completes their six books by 7th September will receive a certificate, medal and prize and a chance to win a VIP pass to the prize event at Mission control. www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/libraries Sat 13 – Sun 14 Jul - Cassiobury Park RCTA Floating Market (WD17) The Roving Canal Traders Association are excited to announce they are holding a floating market on the Towpath of the Grand Union Canal, Iron Bridge Lock to Cassiobury Park Lock. There will be lots of trading boats with interesting crafts on sale showing amazing talent and a range of fantastic unique items available for you to buy. 10am-4pm both days. www.rcta.org.uk Sat 13 – Sun 14 Jul - Acton Depot Open Weekend: Family Fun (W3) Prepare for a weekend adventure the London Transport Museum Depot launch their second annual Open Weekend. Take your pick from the packed programme of transport themed activities and experiences on offer, from musical story time sessions, miniature steam railway rides and heritage bus excursions to specially designed family tours of the Depot and creative make and take sessions www.ltmuseum.co.uk

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What’s On Sun 14 Jul - Spire Bushey 10k, 5k and Junior Races (WD23) This great little race is now in its 34th year. The 10k winds it’s way around the leafy Hertfordshire town of Bushey, starting and finishing at Queens’ School. With a 5k and the ever-popular Junior races on the same day, the whole family can be involved! 10am-1pm. www.purplepatchrunning.com Sun 14 Jul - St Albans ComicCon (AL1) A fresh new line-up of Guests from Film & TV will be on hand at Alban Arena, as well as a new set of artists in the Artists Alley from your favourite Comics. Other attractions & activities will include Memorabilia & Specialist Traders, a Gaming Zone, Movie PropsVehicles & a fantastic Cosplay Zone & competition as well as a few other surprises! A Family Friendly event with no age restrictions and entry will begin at 10am. www.creedconventions.com Thu 18 Jul – Sun 1 Sep Dinosaur World Live (HA9) Direct from the West End, Dinosaur World Live, the interactive children’s theatre show that brings dinosaurs to life on stage, will spend a 7 week summer season at the brand-new Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. Using stunning puppetry to bring remarkably life-like dinosaurs to the stage, Dinosaur World Live presents a host of impressive pre-historic creatures. www.wembleypark.com Fri 19 Jul - Barn Dance (HP8) Join in the barn dance with ceilidh band Tamlin at Chiltern Open Air Museum. From 7.30pm – 10pm. www.coam.org.uk Fri 19 Jul – Sun 5 Jan - The Moon (SE10) To celebrate 50 years since NASA’s Apollo 11 mission landed the first humans on the Moon, the National Maritime Museum stages The Moon, the UK’s biggest exhibition dedicated to Earth’s nearest celestial neighbour.

Featuring over 180 objects - including real lunar samples and objects that have travelled to the Moon and back - the exhibition presents a cultural and scientific story of our relationship with the Moon over time and across civilisations. Open everyday, 10am – 5pm. www.rmg.co.uk/moon50 Sat 20 Jul - Family Day: Words as Art (NW1) Take part in a fun-filled family day at the British Library, inspired by the exhibition, Writing: Making Your Mark. Explore

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the wonderful world of letters, fonts and styles.

Transform words into art as you screen print a poster, build sculptures made of words and try Japanese calligraphy. Experiment with writing tools of all shapes and sizes. 11am-3pm. www.bl.uk Sat 20 – Sun 21 Jul - Kew Science Festival (TW9) Be a scientist for a day through interactive experiments, expert talks and behind-the-scenes tours. Enjoy Gastronaut Stefan Gates’ live show about food and science, journey with Google’s 360-degree virtual reality goggles, get futuristic in the Cryo Corner and learn how to be a honey detective. www.kew.org Sat 20 Jul – Mon 26 Aug - Alice in Wonderland: Theatre on Kew (TW9) Lewis Carroll’s classic story is cleverly lifted from the page and beautifully brought to life in Glenn Elston’s highly acclaimed production of ‘Alice in Wonderland’. Presented in a bright performance style, with colourful costumes, interactive games and catchy songs this is a perfect way to go on a wonderful Wonderland adventure with the entire family. www.theatreonkew.co.uk Sat 20 Jul - Sun 1 Sep Wetland Explorers (SW13) There are loads of exciting wetland challenges waiting for you including pond dipping, wild painting and raft building. Head to the Wetland HQ where you can pick up a trail map and set off into the wild to get wet and muddy and learn explorer skills through the wild play challenges and NEW ‘Swamp Survival Squad’. Grab your free Wetland Explorer log book and start your expedition. It’s a wild day out for the whole family! www.wwt.org.uk Sat 20 Jul & Sat 17 Aug - Bach to Baby Family Concerts in Regents Park (NW1) Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed classical concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. No concert is complete without feeding, crying and nappy changing! Tickets must be bought in advance. www.bachtobaby.com Continued on page 18

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What’s On Continued from page 19

Sun 21 Jul - Uxbridge Charity AutoShow and Festival (UB8) The premier motor show in West London, with nearly 2,000 cars on display, entered by individuals and car clubs, from classic to modern and modified. An arena with entertainment, live music from local bands, trade stands selling everything from tools to model cars and much more. A fun area and catering for all tastes. Takes place at Hillingdon House Farm. www.uxbridgeautoshow.com Fri 26 Jul - Hillingdon Council presents Family Fridays: Aeroplanes (UB10) Fun family activities happen every Friday during the summer holidays, from 10am to 4pm at the Battle of Britain Bunker. Discover more about aeroplanes - learn the history of the Second World War aircraft and compare them to today’s modern jets. www.battleofbritainbunker.co.uk Fri 26 Jul – Fri 9 Aug - Big Screen (WD17) The Big Screen is returning to the event space in Watford town centre, showing a variety of films for young and old. Keep an eye out for the schedule on the website closer to the time. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sat 27 – Sun 28 Jul - Watford Short Film Festival 2019 (WD17) The festival returns for its second year at the Pumphouse Theatre, to showcase some of the best local, national and international film-making talent. Open to an audience of avid film fans and film-makers alike, Watford Short Film Festival celebrates the best drama, factual and animated content. Times of performances to be confirmed. www.filmfreeway.com/WatfordShortFilmFestival Sat 27 – Sun 28 Jul - The British Firefighter Challenge 2019 (WD17) The British Firefighter Challenge is an annual sporting event which pushes firefighters to their limits, provides a day of entertainment for spectators, and raises funds for the Firefighters Charity. This year’s competition will be bigger than ever with 250 competitors from 16 countries! www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sat 27 – Sun 28 Jul - Classic Vehicle Show (HP8) Go and admire an amazing collection of classic cars, lorries, motorcycles and historic bicycles at Chiltern Open Air Museum. www.coam.org.uk Sun 28 Jul - Naturally Arty (HA2) Celebrate National City Parks Week at Headstone Manor Museum by making your own bunting using natural materials, taking inspiration from the grounds and the wider Park. Free artist led family fun! Drop in any time between 11am-3pm. Suitable for ages 5+ and their grown-ups. www.headstonemanor.org Sun 28 Jul - Jiveswing Jazz Festival (WD18) JiveSwing.com and Watford Borough Council presents, one of the biggest ‘JiveSwing Jazz Festivals’ ever to be held in Hertfordshire for both dancers and musicians to jam together. This year features an even bigger line up, with some of the latest and biggest names for Swing and Jazz bands, Orchestra’s from London, Herts and around the UK, plus swing dance classes and Dance Shows for all the family. 1pm at Cassiobury Park, Watford. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk

18 Families North West London

Sun 28 Jul & Sun 11 Aug - Hillingdon Council presents Family Fishing Fun Days (UB8) Free activities at Little Britain Lake in Uxbridge. Includes hourly ‘Introduction To Fishing’ sessions, (the last at 2.30pm), along with Bird Box Making, Crafts and Face Painting. Registration on the day is required for Fishing Sessions and Bird Box making and are booked on a first come, first served basis. From 9.30am. www.hillingdontheatres.uk Mon 29 Jul – Sat 31 Aug - Wat’s On (various) Free activities for five to 15 year olds throughout the summer holidays in Watford. A hugely popular range of fun and interactive sessions include stage school, adventure play, sports and arts and crafts, all for free. Check the website for the full schedule of events and activities. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Tue 30 Jul - Terrific Tuesday (HP8) Earth themed family crafts, activities and games all for the standard admission price at Chiltern Open Air Museum. www.coam.org.uk Tue 30 Jul & Thu 22 Aug - Diary of a Cosmic Explorer! (SE10) A one-day workshop at the National Maritime Museum with bestselling cartoonist James Parsons from Crazy Comic Club. Create your own mind-blowing cosmic comic memoir, explore the farthest reaches of the solar system and the cartooning universe, complete with all pop-up magic, X-Ray cartoons, and other eye-popping treats, while learning secret comic art techniques used by the professionals... all you need to bring is your imagination! 10.30am-4pm, ages 6-13 years. www.rmg.co.uk Every Wed from 31 Jul - 28 Aug - A Place To Call Home (HA2) This summer you can celebrate ‘The Home’ with a programme of family activities at Headstone Manor Museum. Including build a house trail, object handling, garden games and much more. Drop in between 11am – 3pm. £1.50 per child. Ages 5+. www.headstonemanor.org

AUGUST From Sat 3 Aug - Family Heritage Trail at Battersea Arts Centre (SW11) Launching this August the trail explores the hidden corners of Battersea Arts Centre through the people, stories and values that have shaped its 125-year history.

Visitors will uncover hidden history and encounter new specially commissioned artworks with a self-guided trail created by theatremakers and artists. Free but booking recommended. Every Saturday, 11am, 1:30pm & 3:30pm. Ages 6-11 years. www.bac.org.uk Sat 3 – Sun 4 Aug - Wellington’s Army (HP8) Meet the rifleman of Wellington’s army and watch reenactments at Chiltern Open Air Museum. www.coam.org.uk Sat 3 – Sun 4 Aug - Moon Kites (SE10)Help celebrate the National Maritime Museum’s new major exhibition, The Moon, by creating a traditional Malaysian moon kite inspired

by Cutty Sark’s travels. At the Cutty Sark from 11.30am-1.30pm & 2-4pm. Ages 4+. www.rmg.co.uk

Sun 4 Aug - Kids’ Fun Fair Day in Canons Park (HA8) Kids’ fun fair rides, ‘fun’ dog show, face painting, Tai Chi sessions, musical entertainment, free kids’ art activity desk; plant sale to support the Shaw Trust in Harrow and much more!

Visitors can also treat themselves at the New Cottage Fudge stall or go to Dotty’s Sweets bus for super shakes and sweets. For those of all ages who like to get back to nature there will be herb discovery walks and yoga sessions. 11am to 6pm. www.canonsparkfriends.org Tue 6 Aug - Terrific Tuesday (HP8) Air themed family crafts, activities and games all for the standard admission price at Chiltern Open Air Museum. www.coam.org.uk Wed 7 – Thu 8 Aug - Hungry Fish (SE10) Swimming is hard work and every now and then a fish needs a snack! Go and craft some very hungry fish and their food in this make and take workshop at the Cutty Sark. Ages 4+. www.rmg.co.uk Thu 8 Aug - Hillingdon Libraries presents Space Camp (HA4) In 2019, Hillingdon’s libraries celebrate 20 years of the Summer Reading Challenge - and launch into space!

Space Camp is a one-off event, as part of the Summer Reading Challenge - and is your chance to enter astronaut training for the day! Hunt out aliens, take a fitness test and complete puzzles during this day of entertainment. Fancy dress is strongly encouraged. This event runs from 10am until 4pm, in the Great Barn at Manor Farm in Ruislip. www.hillingdontheatres.uk Sat 10 – Sun 11 Aug - Tudor Courtroom (HP8) Discover Tudor life and help enact justice in a Tudor courtroom at Chiltern Open Air Museum. www.coam.org.uk Sun 11 Aug - Maple Lodge Nature Reserve: Discovery Day (WD3) The private reserve will once again be open to the general public when it holds its annual Discovery Day from 11am-4pm. Throughout the day guided tours of the reserve will be organised by members of the Maple Lodge Conservation Society.

Light refreshments will be available all day and there will also be plants, second-hand books and greeting cards on sale. www.maplelodgenaturereserve.org

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What’s On

National Maritime Museum

Sun 11 Aug - Relaxed Early Opening for Families at British Library (NW1) An event for families with children on the autism spectrum and other sensory needs. Enjoy the Library free from the hustle and bustle of the general public, from 9-11am. A dedicated sensory room will also be available for children needing a quieter and calmer space. This event is free and suitable for parents and carers with children aged 5–15 years and their siblings. www.bl.uk Tue 13 Aug - Hillingdon Libraries: Culture Bite presents Science Museum Workshop (HA4) You want to go on a mission to Mars, but how are you going to get there? Discover the science behind launching rockets and satellites into space in this fun, hour-long workshop at Winston Churchill Theatre. You’ll find out about satellites and their orbits - then make your own rockets that will hopefully reach Mars! Suitable for children aged 7 to 11. Adult supervision is required through-out the workshop but only the children taking part require a paid ticket. www.hillingdontheatres.uk Tue 13 Aug - Terrific Tuesday (HP8) Fire themed family crafts, activities and games all for the standard admission price at Chiltern Open Air Museum. www.coam.org.uk

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Wed 14 – Thu 15 Aug - Don’t forget to check the rocks!

(SE10) Go and create your own sea-side rock pool at the Cutty Sark. What creatures will be hiding beneath the surface or lurking on the rocks? A Crab? A fish? Or even a tiny sea monster?

Discover the secrets of rock pools in this make and take workshop. Ages 4+. www.rmg.co.uk Fri 16 – Fri 30 Aug - Big Beach (WD17) The deckchairs are coming back out and the Big Beach is returning to The Parade in Watford this summer! Keep an eye on the website for updates on events and activities that will be taking place on the beach. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sat 17 Aug - Grubs Up: Surviving Sea and Space (SE10) A fun-fuelled family day at the National Maritime Museum. Get active in a Haka workshop led by members of the Maori community, learn about the unusual diets of astronauts on their way to the Moon or take a moments peace with family yoga.

Take a journey all the way from the Arctic to the Moon and back again, get to grips with the soil under your feet and get to know your own body’s movements. 11am-4pm. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 17 – Sun 18 Aug - Ragged Victorians (HP8) Meet authentic Victorian characters at Chiltern Open Air Museum – watch out for pick pockets! www.coam.org.uk

Tue 20 Aug - Terrific Tuesday (HP8) Water themed family crafts, activities and games all for the standard admission price at Chiltern Open Air Museum. www.coam.org.uk Wed 21 – Thu 22 Aug - Plastic Bag Weaving (SE10) Go along to the Cutty Sark for some eco-crafting as we upcycle ordinary plastic bags into wonderful woven creations. Ages 4+. www.rmg.co.uk Thu 22 Aug - Family Workshop: Drawing with Water (NW1) Enjoy a family workshop at the British Library, celebrating their exhibition, Leonardo da Vinci: A Mind in Motion. Become an artist and inventor for the day, and discover the magic of water. Free, drop in, suitable for ages 5 – 11 years. Drop in places are limited to 40 people per workshop and allocated on a first come, first served basis. www.bl.uk Sun 25 Aug - The Luna Cinema: Mary Poppins Returns (NW1) Located in the heart of Regent’s Park, London’s most beautiful and iconic open air theatre becomes the capital’s finest setting for open air cinema this summer. Go and enjoy classic films on the giant screen which sits on the famous stage, with a picturesque tree line as a backdrop. thelunacinema.com Sat 25 – Sun 26 Aug - Homes Inhabited (HP8) Meet costumed interpreters inhabiting the historic buildings at Chiltern Open Air Museum. www.coam.org.uk Tue 27 Aug - Terrific Tuesday (HP8) Element themed family crafts, activities and games all for the standard admission price at Chiltern Open Air Museum. www.coam.org.uk

Sat 31 Aug – Sun 1 Sep Medieval Warbow (HP8) Watch demonstrations of archery, see and learn about the arming of the knight and talk to the blacksmith/armourer, bowyer, spinster and surgeon about the medieval way of life at Chiltern Open Air Museum. www.coam.org.uk

SEPTEMBER Sat 7 Sep - Big Sports (WD17) The FREE Big Sports event will be returning to The Parade in Watfordfor a sixth year with a whole host of sporting and fitness activities for you to try out alongside health and wellbeing advice. There are some exciting new additions to the day including a zip line, cave adventures, rope-a-phobia and a palm tree challenge as well as various sports stands where you can practice your tennis, golf, rugby and karate. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sat 21 Sep - Cheeki Monkeys Baby & Children’s Market Watford (WD18) Family Fun Day/ Indoor Pop-up Baby & Children’s Market at Westfield Academy, Tolpits Lane, Watford, WD18 6NS from 12-2pm. Pre-Loved, Craft, Business, Entertainment Stalls. Buy/Sell children toys, clothes, equipment.

Goody Bags - first 50 visitors. Adult £1, Kids FREE. Facebook@ CheekiMonkeysRickmansworthandWatford www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk

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Families North West London 19

What’s On

What’s On Children’s Theatre We couldn’t fit them all in! More online www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk Compiled by Anna Blackshaw We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check with the venue directly before setting out.

The Alban Arena Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk Sat 10 - Sun 11 Aug - Grease After the huge successes of Schools Will Rock You, The Wind in the Willows and Beauty and the Beast, Brilliant Theatre Arts and The Alban Arena are excited to present the ‘electrifying’ hit musical, Grease.

The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes. 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Thu 22 - Sat 24 Aug - The Wizard of Oz This summer, there’s no place like Hayes as it is transformed into the mystical Emerald City. With a click of your heels and a sprinkle of Summer Project magic, you’ll be blown away on a bewitching adventure to the Land of Oz. This RSC stage version of the unforgettable film features the classic songs Somewhere Over The Rainbow, Follow The Yellow Brick Road and We’re Off To See The Wizard.

Cadogan Hall 5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com Wed 31 Jul - Sun 25 Aug - ZOG Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved ZOG comes to life in Mike Shepherd’s magical adaptation with Johnny Flynn’s sumptuous folk score featuring live musicians. Katie Sykes’ design lifts the book from the page and creates a real and fantastical world. From the team behind Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales and Tabby McTat, ZOG promises to be roaring fun for all ages.

Chickenshed Chase Side Southgate N14. 020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk Fri 19 - Sat 20 Jul – Mr Stink This summer, Sam Bradshaw Productions has teamed up with Chickenshed to present this musical adaptation of David Walliam’s acclaimed best-selling book, Mr Stink. Chickenshed’s brilliant staging of the story features an all singing and dancing cast, brought to you in the true spirit of Chickenshed’s unique inclusive ethos, the heartwarming and uplifting message of acceptance shines through the whole show.

Compass Theatre Glebe Avenue, Ickenham UB10 01895 673 0200 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Fri 19 Jul - Sat 20 Jul - Madagascar A Musical Adventure Jr Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip, hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto the stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. Filled with outlandish characters, adventure galore and an upbeat score, Madagascar JR. will leave you with no choice but to “Move It, Move It!”

The Gruffalo Live on stage

Harrow Arts Centre Hatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com

Mon 29 Jul - A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Outdoor Theatre at Headstone Manor & Museum) Multi-award nominated Immersion Theatre are thrilled to present the most magical and romantic comedy of them all, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Gates open at 5pm for you to find a comfortable spot and the performance will start at 6pm. Please take your own picnic blankets or low-backed seats to sit on. Ages 2+ Mon 19 Aug - Alice in Wonderland (Outdoor Theatre at Headstone Manor & Museum) Imagination runs wild and logic is abandoned in this fantastical, larger-than-life musical brimming with nonsensical fun and excitement for the entire family. Immersion Theatre proudly bring their trademark energy to their most spectacularly bonkers show to date, as children and adults alike are invited to join in the hilarity of seeing this classic story brought vividly to life before having the opportunity to meet the characters after the show…why not go dressed up as your favourite? A perfect day out for the entire family, you’d be mad to miss it! Ages 2+

Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com

Until Sat 13 Jul - Suffrajitsu From the cotton mills of the Lancashire hills to the big smoke of London, we follow Annie, a young mill lass as she fights for her right to vote. However, the fight for change is never easy, and young Annie must learn to defend herself and her fellow suffragettes from those that seek to stop them. Suffrajitsus assemble! Combining original music, puppetry and some graphic novel style ‘Ka-Pows!’, Suffrajitsu shows you that you too can change the world, no matter who you are. Ages 7 – 11 yrs

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What’s On

The Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Tue 6 – Thu 8 Aug - Aliens Love Underpants This zany and hilarious tale based on the best-selling children’s book is wonderfully brought to life on stage for the very first time. With stunning effects, madcap action, original music (and lots of aliens of course!) this fantastically fresh and funny production will delight the whole family. You’ll laugh your PANTS off! Ages: 3+ Fri 30 Aug - Hey Diddle Diddle When the full moon shines bright there’s magic in the air, and all the animals come out to play. Stay up late with flying cows, jazzy cats and runaway crockery and as we jump and jive to the music in a brilliant new take on the classic nursery rhyme. With original songs played live on stage, brilliant puppetry and lots of laughter, this new show is a wild and musical celebration about the importance of imagination.

Ages 3 – 7 yrs

Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street, SE1. 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com

Until Sun 4 Aug - Aesop’s Fables A s far as we know, Aesop was a slave and storyteller who lived in ancient Greece between 620 and 564 BC. But although we don’t know much about the man himself, we do still have over 725 of his stories – passed down from generation to generation. We considered doing all 725 fables and then thought better of it. What we’ve done instead is asked a few of our favourite writers to select one fable and to re-tell it for today’s audience. We’re presenting two versions of the results: one for ages 4-7 and one for ages 8-12.

Watersmeet High St, Rickmansworth WD3 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk

Sun 25 - Tue 27 Aug - Mr Stink The very kind, but lonely, 12 year old Chloe invites the homeless ‘Mr Stink’ and his dog to leave behind the wooden bench where they have taken up residence and secretly move into her family’s shed. Matters become more complicated when Chloe’s mother - who has unfulfilled political ambitions - tries to take credit for Chloe’s generosity. And precisely who is Mr Stink, anyway? Join us for a brilliantly staged version of this warm-hearted and funny story. Ages 4+ The Gruffalo Live on stage

Until Sun 4 Aug - The Slightly Annoying Elephant What’s big, blue, bossy, and turns up uninvited? A slightly annoying elephant, of course! One day Sam gets a very big surprise as a tired, hungry, antique-loving, cycling enthusiast elephant turns up on his doorstep. Adopting an elephant at the zoo turned out to be a lot more than he bargained for as he didn’t realise the elephant would actually come to live with him – silly boy! This hilarious story by comedian and author David Walliams is brought to life through puppetry. Ages 3 – 8 yrs

Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES 0844 482 9674 www.nimaxtheatres.com Wed 3 Jul – Sun 8 Sep - The Gruffalo Live on stage Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the high-spirited Snake.

Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there? Songs, laughs and monstrous fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups, in the much-loved show that’s toured Britain and the world!

Pump House Lower Watford High Street, Watford WD17 01923 241 362 www.pumphouse.info Tue 2 – Sat 6 Jul - Annie Kids / The Little Mermaid JR – A Double Bill Show Pumphouse CYT presents a double bill show. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930’s New York City. In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home-and her finsbehind and live in the world above. But, first, she’ll have to defy her father, King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl whose enchanting voice he’s been seeking.

Winston Churchill Theatre Pinn Way Ruislip HA4 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk

Mon 5 Aug - The Wimpy Kid Show Host Alastair Watson brings the Wimpy Kid books to life with fun activities including The Wimpy Kid Draw-Along and The Wimp Wars! Quiz. The event lasts 1 hour and also includes exclusive clips of author Jeff Kinney talking about the books, his involvement in the films and showing how he draws the characters. All those who purchase a book on the day will be eligible for it to be stamped with an exclusive Wimpy Kid Show stamp.

Tue 13 Aug - Science Museum: Out of This World!

A journey into space in an action-packed, 45 minute show. Discover what it takes to become an astronaut, launch a rocket, explore the Solar System and look for alien life. This show contains explosions, super-cool liquid nitrogen, eye-popping vacuums and wee drinking - you have been warned! Ages 7 to 11 yrs

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Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 (During the summer the Barge is at Richmond, TW10) 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Sat 20 Jul – Sun 11 Aug - The Three Little Pigs plus Captain Grimey (at Richmond) The Three Little Pigs and is a lively show that breathes new life into these well-known characters – each pig has an air of mischief and naivety, while the wicked wolf has just a hint of a wry smile. Captain Grimey is the dirtiest, most miserable, one-legged sea captain in the world - find out how the Golden Dolphin helps him become Captain Shiney and find happiness, in this humorous morality tale.

Wed 14 Aug – Sun 6 Oct - The Insect Circus Visiting company String Theatre invites the audience to forget reality and become immersed in the strange and beautiful world of the Insect Circus. Beetles and grasshoppers, wasps and dragonflies, demonstrate their dexterity with great skill and humour. Presented using marionettes, the show breathes new life into the traditional techniques used in Victorian trick marionettes. A show without words.

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Families North West London 21

Local Clubs and Classes Directory PARTIES

Perform Parties - Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter to create fun-filled, action-packed parties. Call 0207 255 9120 or visit performparties.co.uk The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) Fun for kids, hassle-free for parents, birthday parties at The Windmill Studio Centre, Ruislip Manor, for 1-10 years boys & girls include invitations, party leader & assistant(s), freshly prepared food, decorations, music, lights, games, dancing, props and prizes. Optional extras - adult refreshments, face-painting and party bags. Lots of themes from Princesses and Super Heroes to Monsters, Trolls, Makers and Mad Hatters! Modern & clean venue.  01895 624755  thewindmillstudio@gmail.com www.thewindmillstudio.com

CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS Adult Art Classes in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for adults. Weekday morning studio sessions in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk BaB – Bring a Baby courses for adults. All Bring a Baby Courses are designed for you, the grown up, but are fun and engaging for your kids too. Their courses get 5* reviews because they make it possible for you to learn a new skill and be with your children. Photography, Knitting, Embroidery, Cake Decorating and more.  www.bab-courses.co.uk Capital Connection Chorus - female A capella harmony (HA4) Calling women who love to sing! Particularly need lower range voices at present.

Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a great group of women.

Wed night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at Ruislip Community Centre.  www.capitalconnection.org.uk Eggless Cake Delights (HA) offer eggless baking, cake decorating and dessert classes for kids & adults in Harrow. Classes are held in small groups in hands on and Demo format, during weekdays, weekends and during term holidays in a friendly environment.  07737847405 or info@ egglesscakedelights.com.  www.egglesscakedelights.com Meditation (HA5) Every FIRST Thursday of the month, 8.00pm at The Stables, Eastcote House Gardens, Eastcote Village, HA5 2FE. Everyone 18+ welcome. Just £5. Feel energised, increase happiness, improve mental clarity and memory recall. Flush out negative thoughts and improve physical and mental health. Ten minute stress relief treatment for newcomers FREE. No booking needed, just come along. For more information, contact Alexandra Barrett: alexandrabarrett@me.com;  0775 334 90 24 Movers and Shapers (NW6) Fitness with babies in tow. Book online. www. moversandshapers.co.uk 020 7624 8687 queenspark@moversandshapers.co.uk Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based yoga classes for women throughout their lives. The sessions incorporate traditional yoga asanas (postures) adapted for water, water relaxations and positive life building experiences for women, mothers and mothers to be. There are AquaBellies - Aquanatal yoga for pregnancy, AquaMamas, post natal and AquaBelles aqua yoga classes suitable for all women. NEW YogaBelles: yoga designed for a unique women’s body.  07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli Zest For Life Studio is a new secret fitness oasis for vitality and wellness near you. Let me welcome you in my garden studio to share an invigorating hour of zesty fitness, a unique programme of toning circuit & zumba: enjoy a variety of class at 9am, a personal touch, small group of 6-8. In&outdoor classes. marion.bignone.zumba.com zestforlifestudio@gmail.com

First Aid MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs.  Margaret 07814 191 395  mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk

LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT All Saints Toddler Group (HA8) Every Thursday 10am-11.45am. Everyone welcome. A small friendly group run by the pre-school, with qualified staff on hand to provide help and support if needed. At Waltham Drive, Queensbury, Edgeware, HA8 5PQ.  07985 284 498/07958 473 475.  allsaintpreschool@hotmail.co.uk www.allsaintpreschool.com Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development.

Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258  www. cbcd.bbk.ac.uk Chinmaya UK (HA) Do you want your children to connect to their Indian culture through stories, games and celebration of festivals? Go along to Bal Vihar classes to explore culture and values in an engaging, positive environment. Every Sunday in Harrow and Hendon for children aged 5-17.  bv@chinmayauk.org www. chinmayauk.org 07812 146428 Giggling Panda Chinese School (UB5) offers fun, creative and engaging Mandarin classes for children aged 3-11. Small size classes are run on Sundays and the school is located conveniently off A40 with onsite parking. Alec Reed Academy Bengarth Rd, Northolt UB5 5LQ Lisa.malde@ gigglingpanda.co.uk 07916165228 www.gigglingpanda.co.uk Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Saturday morning at 9am and 10am at St Lawrence Church in Eastcote, Pinner.  www.sansaar.org Little Stars Baby Club (HA9) A fun and friendly baby club where new mums with babies from birth to sitting can relax and meet new friends whilst babies play and explore with a range of lovely sensory toys. Every Friday 9:30-11:15am at Powell Suites @ Chalkhill Community Centre, The Welford Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley Park HA9 9FX. £2.00  0208 385 1836  littlestarswembley@gmail.com

22 Families North West London

The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An Independent Practice providing an exceptionally high quality, caring and individualised service for promoting the communication needs of children.

We offer Speech and Language Therapy sessions within a modern clinic base, nurseries and schools. 01923 824 074 07956 994721  www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Portuguese for Children (NW6) Every Saturday, from 10am to 12pm, the International Gospel Church on Belsize Road will be open for children from 4 to 12 years of Brazilian-English parents to enrol. Lessons will include how to read and write and Brazilian culture, including music.  contact@ igclondon.org.uk Guju Tots Swagatham! Kem Chho? Come along to a FREE taster of these fun-filled 45 minute classes in NW London to help kids 6 months to 5 years learn Gujarati through songs & stories! Interactive, relaxed classes, plus plenty of material to practice at home!  07956 385 316  www.gujutots.co.uk

Outdoor Forest School Parent & Toddler Programme. Monday and Friday Oxhey /Northwood. Come and explore in the woods, led by experienced and qualified Forest School Practitioners. Developing learning, confidence and well being through fire, den building, song, storytelling, craft and tool use.  07900 215 512  www.forevergreenforestschool.com

Sign Language Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills.

Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and Harrow.  www.singandsign.com

HEALTH AND WELLBEING Wellbeing Kids Workshops (WD3) Well-being workshops for children aged 9-12yr and 13-17yr olds. Holiday masterclasses to support the holistic mind, body and spirit learning. By exploring emotional intelligence, imagination, yoga, mindfulness, role-play and many more creative/ outdoor activities.For more information, please contact Anita  07956 849614,  wellbeingkids@gmail.com

Massage & Yoga Human Values Based Yoga After school classes run in Harrow by a qualified yoga teacher with over 40 years yoga experience and over 30 yrs teaching yoga in various settings, including adult education and family learning, community clubs, hospitals and mental health centres. For adults and children 6-11 years.  Joyce on 07912 879 103  joycedpower@aol.com YogaBelliesKidz Family yoga (HA & WD) Share the mental and physical benefits of yoga...peace of mind, relaxation and increases body strength and flexibility!

YogaBellies Mum and Baby yoga: Monday afternoons (birth to 10 mths) YogaBellies Little Angels pre-school yoga (18 mths to 4 yrs): Sat mornings, Bushey YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (4-12 yrs): Sat & Sun mornings, Bushey NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 yrs): Weekday evening, Bushey 07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk; www.yogabellies.co.uk/ members/anjli

ACTIVITY CENTRES

Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide range of activities available from 6mths to 12yrs. 020 8954 5759  kidzzone@ aspire.org.uk. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP Cloud 9 Leisure (WD25) Imagine a giant inflatable world which combines the fun, challenge and excitement of Ninja Warrior, Gladiator and Total Wipeout! Cloud 9 at Francis Coombe School in Watford is an incredibly new, exciting, active leisure experience for all ages. From a giant inflatable obstacle course and dodgeball arena to a 1v1 battle platform, the fun is endless with plenty more surprises in store.  www.cloud9leisure.com JAMtots (HA4) An interactive daytime activity centre for parents with babies and toddlers. All pay as you go with a variety of sessions that include Parent & Toddler Groups, Musical Tots, Gym Tots and one off events plus special visits from Jimmy the JAMtots Bear. 01895 624755  thewindmillstudio.com Jungle Monkeyz (HA5) offers a unique Indoor Soft Play Area that is a safe environment for children aged 0-9 years. There are special areas for infants and toddlers, as well as the Junior zone for bigger monkeyz which has a 3 tier play structure and exciting Adventure zone. www. junglemonkeyz.co.uk Rumble Tumble Harrow (HA1) Harrow’s only indoor supervised soft play children’s play group. Why not take advantage of the Drop & Shop facility and have a stress free shop, or book a special event in the Party Room available for all occasions. You can even relax and have a snack in the restaurant while your little ones are playing. 0208 427 8847  info@ rumble-tumble.com www.rumble-tumble.com The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting activity centre that has just about everything to offer for all ages from babies to adults including classes, courses, complementary therapies and room & studio hire. 01895 624755  www. thewindmillstudio.com

MUSIC & MOVEMENT

Beat Building Vibrant & energising music classes using African drums and funky percussion. Great songs and games get the imagination glowing & introduce the concepts of beats, rhythmic patterns, time keeping & also encourage sharing, taking turns and listening. A wonderful introduction to music and rhythm, beat Building is brilliantly fun! 07721 623 171  info@beatbuilding.co.uk www. beatbuilding.co.uk www.facebook.com/ beatbuilding Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 yrs with small, age-related classes. Classes are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and core music skills.

New class starting in Hendon in Jan 2017. 020 8444 9435  www. nlcolourstrings.co.uk

Diddi Dance Harrow & North Hillingdon (various) At diddi dance we enhance children’s endless energy and enthusiasm through funky, full of fun sessions that build confidence, co-ordination and creativity. Classes in Pinner,Ruislip & Stanmore with new ones opening soon. To book a FREE TRIAL contact tejal. patel@diddidance.com KangaRooKids Music & Drama classes for 0-6 yrs. Active Drama, Music & Movement. P-A-Y-G classes for 0-4’s & after school drama for 3-6 yrs. Mill Hill, Finchley & Hampstead. www.kangarookidsgroup.co.uk Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning Monkey Music introduces babies and young children to music in a way they understand and enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum, written by classically trained musicians, ensures that classes are a “good fit” for pre-schoolers. Parents across the UK have voted it as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity”. Age guides are as follows: Rock’n’ Roll from 3m, Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Classes are open 6 days a week, at venues in Uxbridge, Eastcote, Northwood, Harrow and Stanmore. 020 8427 6595  www.monkeymusic.com OB1 Rhythm & Rhyme (WD17 and HA8) Music and Movement classes are fun, tactile and engaging for both parents and children. Enjoy nursery rhymes, instruments, scarves, ribbons, parachute, stories and music, whilst delighting in puppets and bubbles. Children will learn positive social interaction and enhance their coordination and physical development, as well as excite curiosity. Classes are aimed at 3 months to 3 years and follow the EYFS framework. Join a class in Edgware or Watford.  07522405486 TheatreSchool@OB1.co.uk 8 www.OB1.co.uk/ RhythmRhyme

SPORTS AND EXERCISE All Stars Cricket Gives boys and girls aged 5-8 the chance to play, learn great skills and make new friends! 8 week course starts May 2018.  www.allstarscricket.co.uk Capoeira Academy UK (HA) Classes in Stanmore providing outstanding and fun classes for children aged 4+years. A unique blend of martial arts, dance, acrobatics and music; capoeira develops skills for life with inspiring and nurturing teachers. 07841342874  capoeiracademyuk@gmail. com www. capoeiracademyuk.com Echo’s Equestrian Centre (SL0) A small friendly livery yard and Pony Club Centre in Iver, Buckinghamshire. Junior Pony Club and a Hoof Club during the holidays. 07895 706053  www.echosequestrian.co.uk Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for the perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike! 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886  www.enjoy-a-ball.com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time, Field End Rd for ages 5–11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.45am, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 12.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Tracey fieldendflyers@gmail.com

Harrow Junior Hockey Club (HA1) run sessions for children aged 4- 16 years on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings at The John Lyon School Playing Fields, Sudbury Hill, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3NA. Everyone welcome please contact us for more information  harrowhcjuniors@ outlook.com Hertfordshire Sports Village (AL10) have plenty of activities and sports sessions to keep your children active throughout the year. They cater for all children between the ages of 0 – 17 years and offer everything from swimming lessons, Gymnastics, Mini Movers, Trampolining and Mini Boots.  www.hertssportsvillage.co.uk Ignite Tennis (HA3) Coaching courses for ages 3+ at Kenton Lawn Tennis Club. Junior group coaching is for those who wish to improve their tennis skills with others of a similar age and ability. Each session will cover different aspects of the game and they will relate from one session to the next. All sessions include technical, tactical, physical and mental skills.

Contact James  07852 180905  info@ignitetennis.co.uk www.ignitetennis.co.uk Kaishi Karate School runs classes for children and adults in north London.

Kaishi has been awarded a Safe guarding kite mark by Sport England.

Karate aids self discipline and confidence along with many other benefits.

Absolute beginners welcome from age 4-94! See details on www. kaishikarate34.com. Or call Sheena on 0787 550 1674.

Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet 020 8201 1084  jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford  0208 123 9346  jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley  0208 422 0676  niro@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk London Academy of Gymnastics & Dance (LAGAD) Wembley and across London (HA9, N2, N3, N12, N8, N10, N14, N15, N20, N22, NW11, SW3). LAGAD is a specialist company passionate about the provision of high quality, dynamic and fun dance & gymnastics classes. Classes for youngsters from 3.5 years through to advanced levels. Our fully-trained, highly qualified coaches and dance teachers work with all abilities to bring out the best in each child and help them develop a range of fantastic physical and life skills.

Birthday Parties also available. Trial Classes throughout the term. LAGAD aim to inspire and ignite a passion.  0208 883 4675 / info@lagad.co.uk www.lagad.co.uk

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Local Clubs and Classes Directory SportsKids Academy ((WD3 & HA3) SportsKids Academy provide 4 -16 year olds with an exciting and educational sports programme at weekends. We encourage and develop young people to grow as athletes and individuals.

We have an extensive programme of team and individual sports as well as weekly team building challenges. ALL CHILDREN participate in a wide range of different sports , grow in confidence through leadership skills and have fun making lots of new friends. Their programme includes; American Football, Dodgeball, Handball, Basketball, Rugby, Softball, Gaelic Football, Rounders, Athletics, Cricket, Gymnastics, Tennis, Fencing, Lacrosse, Archery, Netball, Volleyball, Martial Arts, Football, Badminton, Hockey, Orienteering and Golf.  07983392479 8 sportskids@outlook.com www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk TISKA (HA1/9) Learn the fascinating art of Karate. Classes held in Wembley and Harrow. Families welcome, minimum age 4 yrs. 07739 572487  patel.karate@icloud.com www.tiskakarate-harrow.co.uk Y Active (HA2) New Harrow classes booking now for children and adults at the YMCA. A beautiful studio with free parking and a play garden. Baby, Ballet, Gym, Soft Play and Classes from £4.40. 020 8832 1576  yactive@ymcawestlondon.org www.ymcawestlondon.org

Swimmimg Aqua Vie are doing Regular weekly Tues Wed and Sunday classes in Bushey during term times. Spaces for new babies Tues, Wed and new group Adult swim classes. Learn mindful effortless swimming in a calm environment in warm water. Use less effort, swim further and experience the joy of water.  office@aqua-vie.com  01923 245 773 www.Aqua-Vie.com Brent Dolphins (NW10/HA0) Swimming lessons for children 5 years and over at Willesden and Vale Farm. Sessions are held in a fun and friendly environment from beginner to competitive swimming level.Further details are available on our website www.brentdolphins.org.uk or you can email our Club Secretary at: info@brentdolphins.org.uk

THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS

Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA examinations to advanced level. 07974 750 224  www.beverleydance.co.uk.

Future Stars Theatre Arts (various) Drama – Dance – Sing – LAMDA. Future Stars is an established stage school with an outstanding reputation for excellence. They provide fun, fresh and dynamic training in Drama, Dance, Singing and LAMDA taught by the very best in the industry. Ages: 3-18 years.

Classes in Stanmore College, Northwood, Aldenham and Radlett.

Visit the website to book your FREE TRIAL now! Limited availability! info@futurestarstheatrearts.co.uk  07912538656  www.futurestars.co.uk Huzzah Performing Arts & Mindfulness Build confidence from the inside out with a Huzzah weekly class. Drama, dance, singing and a touch of mindfulness. Ages 4 - 7. Saturday 1 - 2.20pm in Queen’s Park. Sunday 10 11.30am in West Hampstead. Sign up for a FREE TRIAL  www.huzzahperformingarts.com. Creative, calm, confident kids.

JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Truly like no other, with classes available in dancing and drama from 2.5 years – adults, male and female plus an incredibly busy Agency that is always looking for new recruits for TV, films and commercials.  01895 624755 www.jam2000.co.uk OB1 Theatre School (WD6 and HA8) Affordable SINGING and DRAMA classes for 4-18 years. Our unique approach to teaching, combined with our small class sizes means that each student is given the training and attention they deserve. Our classes are designed to build confidence, encourage creativity and teamwork, and inspire curiosity. We inspire our students to reach their full potential so that they can excel in every aspect of life - not just the performing arts. All The World’s A Stage. Book your FREE TRIAL at our venues in Edgware or Borehamwood.  07522405486  TheatreSchool@OB1. co.uk www.OB1.co.uk OB1 Vocal & LAMDA Studio (NW7 and SG5) We offer 1:1 private singing lessons with Oren - an award winning singing teacher, as well as 1:1 LAMDA sessions with Georgina, our acting coach. Lessons focus on the individual, enabling students to learn new concepts and technique in a safe and expressive environment. Earn UCAS points through LAMDA exams, build confidence, diction, energy, and expression. Ages 8+ years. We inspire our students to reach their full potential so that they can excel in every aspect of life - not just the performing arts. Lessons in Mill Hill Music Complex and our own studio in Letchworth. VocalStudio@ob1.co.uk www.OB1.co.uk Perform Weekly drama, dance and singing classes. Confidence building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions. Venues in Croxley Green, Golders Green, Eastcote, Northwood, Pinner, Harrow, Hatch End, Kensal Rise, Kentish Town, Queens Park, Stanmore and Wembley. 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk  www.perform.org.uk Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) “A new school year is here, which means that children across London and the Home Counties are taking to the stage as Jigsaw begins an exciting new term of drama, singing and dance classes; the perfect activity to escape the cold, wet October weekends.

Classes are designed to develop children’s confidence, focus and social skills, while having fun and making lots of new friends. With more children attending Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools than ever before, now is the time to book a two-week trial and discover these unique benefits at a school near you. For more information or to book a two-week trial,  www.jigsaw-arts. co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.

Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Performance based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Stanmore where children 3-21 attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions. 01923 437693  www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing.

Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by having fun!  Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599  www. stagecoach.co.uk

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Sylvia Young Theatre School (W1H) A specialist performing arts school offering a high level of academic & vocational studies. The Sylvia Young Theatre School is committed to providing high-quality part time training for students aged 4 to 18 years old. Classes are held on Thursday evenings and Saturdays at their Central London school at 1 Nutford Place, and focus on singing, dance and drama. www.sylviayoungtheatreschool.co.uk Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, Drama and Communication Skills for children 3-18yrs.  wordworksstudio@ymail.com Young A Listers (HA0) The UK’s first part-time Self-empowerment Drama School, founded by Actor/Writer/Director Samuell Benta, with an intention to raise young people’s awareness about their personal strengths and power.

The school offers the chance for children to pursue a career in acting or simply learn some new skills and build their confidence as a person. Classes every Tues and Thurs at St Johns Community Centre in Wembley. www. youngalisters.com info@YoungAListers.com 07508 031 672

Dance Instep School of Ballet (HA/WD) Trains students of all ages and abilities in ballet, tap, pointe and performance. The school offers examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (ballet) and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (tap), and all teachers are fully qualified and registered with the RAD and ISTD. They produce a summer show each year. Classes in Harrow, North Harrow and Bushey.  07814 793 772  instepschoolofballet@yahoo.co.uk www.instepschoolofballet.co.uk Tartan Tots A fun introduction to Scottish dancing for 3 and 4 year olds.

Encourages co-ordination, rhythm and keeping time to music. Experienced and qualified teacher. Saturday mornings in Watford. Classes also in Highland dancing for primary aged children.  07866 295694  shunt@moose.co.uk The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations  020 8950 2457  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

ARTS AND CRAFTS Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for children and adults. On-going, small groups Mon–Thurs afternoons and Saturday mornings in Term Time for children from Year 1 up. Weekday morning studio sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment. 020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or 11-12pm at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric printing and much more! For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided. Qualified teachers. 07946 055 422  info@mysistersandme.co.uk Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) A new and exciting Arts and Crafts activity club for children ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and holidays.

They offer and Mother Toddler Group art club (aged 1-4 yrs) and an Afterschool/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs) Contact to book your place: Keshma 07419343105  keshma.artzania@gmail.com The Bite Me Corner’s Confidence building cooking & Nutrition programmes!

(HA9) Come, join our engaging Saturday cooking and nutrition sessions held in the heart of Wembley Park at The Yellow! 1 Humphry Repton Lane, Wembley Park, London HA9 0GL. Booking required for these sessions: 11am12pm ; 12:30- 1:30pm. Ages 7+. Create a variety of quick and tasty recipes from great pizza to double chocolate muffins! Healthy options start from being confident with your ingredients! Using organic and commercial food produce we’ll get you fired-up and back in the kitchen to create fantastic dishes! HEY, THERE’S MORE! If you would like to join on our After- school fun programmes which are held at: Cranford Park Academy, Phelps Way, Hayes, Middx, UB3 4LQ on Tuesdays 3:30-4:30pm or Friday 3:30-5:00pm or have one of our exciting Wellbeing Workshops contact Lauri on:  www.thebitemecorner.com contact@thebitemecorner.com Blank Canvas Art Club (HA4) Do your kids love Art? Then welcome to the club! Sign them up for these fun classes where I teach art techniques to 5+, 7+ and 11-18 year olds. Weekly term time classes & holiday workshops, with public or small group private options are available in Ruislip Manor & Eastcote. Special member’s benefits, sibling discounts and a refer a friend scheme are available so why not book now & let them develop a love of Art that will last a lifetime! Contact Suzi at  blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com, 07773 819 603 8 www.Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts for the very young and their families, with lots of mess and none of the tidying up!

Exploring different materials and textures each week. Ages under 5, come dressed for mess! 0208 416 8989  www.harrowarts.com/family Stitch Club (HA5) Stitch and Sketch Club for children and teens. Start with simple hand sewing then developing sewing machine and design techniques to design and create your own items. Saturday Sketch Club develops looking and drawing skills and confidence. Also parties and one-off workshops. Adults’ weekly Dressmaking sessions and occaisional Beginners workshops.  stitch.club E: sam@stitch.club

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/EDUCATION SUPPORT Academic Primary School Tuition (HA8 & WD23) in Maths/English or Phonics & Writing for 3.5 to 11 year olds at our Little Big Leaders Saturday School, Summer School and Winter School, in our 8th year of success. Tutors support and challenge pupils to improve their learning, and have a track record in enabling pupils to demonstrate progress in their mainstream setting and/ or in 5+, 7+ and 11+ examinations. Childcare vouchers accepted. Free trial lessons. 020 3637 6266  www.littlebigleaders.com

Entrance Exams, 13+, GCSE, A-Levels. All tutors are DBS Enhanced checked. 020 7859 4556  www.adamstutors.co.uk All Saints Pre-School Queensbury (HA8) Free childcare for 2-5 yrs, 15-30 hours. Visit anytime Mon - Fri. Waltham Drive, Queensbury, Edgeware, HA8 5PQ. 07985 284 498/07958 473 475.  allsaintpreschool@hotmail.co.uk www.allsaintpreschool.com Brownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units exist across the area which provide fun activities for girls aged from 5 onwards.  www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or Peggy Brand 020 8205 7597 Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes held at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every lesson is designed to complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials available. 020 8434 7111.  www.clickit-kids.co.uk. wendy@clickit-kids.co.uk.

DiscoG Coding Boot Camp (various) Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses are also available. Gerard on 07767 300940  info@discogcodingacademy.com www.discogcodingacademy.com Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest centre or call to book a free trial class!  www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time adjacent to Field End Junior School, Field End Road, Eastcote, HA4, for children aged 5 – 11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.15am and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 11.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves, water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Contact Tracey at fieldendflyers@gmail.com The Harrow Woodcraft Folk (HA) Elfin group for children, 6 to 9yrs.

Parents wishing to join their children should contact the District Secretary; John Woolf: 020 8428 2409 or harrow@woodcraft.org.uk www. harrowwoodcraftfolk.btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration. Usha Patel 07766 837 616 ushapatel.raviv@gmail. com www.integratedbrain.co.uk JKEducate Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL. 020 3488 0754  www.jkeducate.co.uk Karen Wilkin Tuition (HA) 4+/5+ tuition. One to one, tailor made, handson, fun sessions in the comfort of your home. Experienced Montessori teacher with excellent results in all the top schools. Term time and holiday sessions available. 07887 984 401, wilkin@afrormosia.com Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. 07985 588 085  www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus classroom based learning, to yr 4 and 5 students. Prepare students to sit exams for Grammar and private schools.  For a call back email your name and number to info@thelondontutors.co.uk Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework support. 0333 12 33 445  www.mathscool.com Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11.  www.numberworksnwords.co.uk The Play Shelter After School Club Malorees Infant & Junior Schools (NW6) 3.30pm-6pm term time. Play schemes available out of term-time. 0207 407 6744. admin@theplayshelter.co.uk www.theplayshelter.co.uk Pinner Tuition Centre (Pinner) After school and Sat tuition for Reception to Year 11 by fully qualified teachers. Tuition in Maths, Reading, Spelling, Writing, SATS, 11+ and GCSE. Free assessment. Ofsted Registered.  www. pinnertuitioncentre.co.uk Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course. Improve reading age by 1 year in 3 months of home based work. The computer interventions is similar to having a tutor in your home with daily monitoring and feed back. Usha Patel on 07766 837 616  info@ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist) Stem Den (HA6) Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths for children aged 5 to 13 years. Develop problem solving skills and learn programming.

At St John’s School in Northwood. www.stemden.co.uk Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the students on the courses have achieved success.  020 7683 0734  www.sdeuk.org/swherts Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA2) Learn to touch type!

Weekly lessons and intensive holiday courses for children from age 8-18.

Highly recommended for children with dyslexia. Classes are held at their office in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult classes also available.  020 8434 7111.  www.typeitforkids.co.uk. wendy@ typeitforkids.co.uk.

Adams Tutors (various) A bespoke tuition service from London’s leading tuition provider – one to one and group tuition. Experts in maths. 11+,

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