Families NW London Magazine issue 134 March Apr 2020

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IN THIS ISSUE Party Planning!

Day Camps; Activities and Childcare for Easter and Summer Break!

Spring into Easter

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Issue 134 March / April 2020 familiesonline.co.uk

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Welcome to the

March / April 2020 issue!

CONTACT US:

IN THIS ISSUE: 4 Ten great education apps 7 How to teach children to spot fake news 12 Party planning 16 Camps and activities 19 What's On

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EDITORS:

Heather Waddington and

Janine Mergler T: 01923 237 004 E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF

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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: May/June 2020 - Summer activity and childcare planning. Deadline 6 April 2020; July/Aug 2020 - What to do with the kid this summer! Deadline 1 June 2020 Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details above.

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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.

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Moments Have fun, make friends and learn skills that last a lifetime Find your nearest programme and register at allstarscricket.co.uk

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News Zuntold Publishing’s latest young adult novel tackles online grooming Always Here For You by Miriam Halahmy (ISBN 9781916204218) is a gripping story that focuses on how 14-year-old protagonist Holly is groomed via a social media app as she becomes more and more isolated from her family and friends. Shedding light on this current and significant issue, Halahmy drew from teenagers’ first-hand accounts before

writing the novel. Drawing from real life accounts, the story gives voice to important issues in an accessible and compelling read.

Halahmy brings her rich and varied background to the novel as former secondary school teacher and special needs educator. https://www. miriamhalahmy.com/

New workshops will help parents, grandparents and carers create readers for life

with techniques and skills that will help them to set children up to become lifelong readers.

The workshops are being launched in cities across the UK and cost £50 per person. This includes a two-hour workshop with a Coram Beanstalk trainer and post-workshop materials. http://www. corambeanstalk.org.uk/ creatingreaders

North London family introduce their new treats ‘popping’ up for Easter!

Joseph’s small team of pastry chefs lovingly air-pop “extra-large” mushroom kernels, which are coated by hand in Joe & Seph’s unique salted caramel sauce; each piece of popcorn is individually placed in an egg-shaped cup of luxurious Milk Chocolate for a meltin-the-mouth moment of pure indulgence, rounded off with a satisfying popcorn crunch! Support a local business this chocolate season! www.joeandsephs.co.uk

National reading charity Coram Beanstalk has over 45 years’ experience in training volunteers to help children aged 3-13 in pre-schools and primary schools to improve their reading ability and enjoyment. For the first time, the charity has adapted aspects of its reading helper training to create three short workshops which focus on equipping other individuals, such as parents, grandparents, foster carers and childminders,

Award-winning North London based popcorn makers, Joe & Seph’s have launched an indulgent new addition to the range of popcorn treats with Chocolate Popcorn Mini Eggs (RRP £3 per 60g bag), 2 pieces of delicious Salted Caramel Popcorn in a Miniature Milk Chocolate Easter Egg. The first of their kind, the Mini Eggs marry decadent chocolate with Joe & Seph’s renowned gourmet caramel popcorn. Founder

Invisible Goodness Wrapped Up in Fun

Perform founder, Lucy Quick tells us more.

Perform classes are a bit like a pasta sauce that’s filled with hidden vegetables: kids think it’s tasty and don’t realise that it’s full of healthy nutrition.

I see our classes like this - invisible goodness wrapped up in an hour of games, role-play, dance routines and songs. The children think they’re enjoying an hour of fun but they’re also being equipped with essential confidencebuilding social skills.

Taking part in regular drama activities encourages confident and fluent speaking, boosts reading and writing abilities and enhances coordination and spatial awareness.

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Rescuing a mermaid from a pirate ship might seem like just imaginative improvisation for 6-year olds, but it’s teaching problem-solving and teamwork too. Early drama, dance and singing lessons changed my life and helped shape my vision for Perform - to deliver classes with a specific focus on developing a child’s confidence and social skills - not to create just another drama school.

Forest School Activity Cards: 48 Fun Things to Do Outdoors In an era of growing obesity and mental health issues in children as well as ever-increasing exam and social media pressures, Forest School Activity Cards equip children with confidence, selfesteem, life and social skills.

This new deck is portable and robust – perfect for outdoor use, so no matter the weather children can head outside to play and learn together. The convenient size of the 48 cards means that children can get involved shuffling through to find the perfect activity. The deck is split into four ‘suits’ offering parents, carers, teachers, scout leaders, family and friends the opportunity to learn new nature-based skills and after reflection, Forest School Leaders a guide for future sessions: Team Games: nature-based games to encourage teamwork.

Forest Craft: making things with materials found in nature.

Nature Spotlight: exploring the natural world in more detail together.

Survival Skills: working to build dens, make fires, gather and cook wild food.

Accompanied by a thorough booklet to explain health and safety essentials, as well as fun ways to use the deck, these cards are the perfect addition to any family, classroom or group this Spring, offering endless outdoor fun that fits into your pocket!

RRP £12.99 www.watkins publishing. com/ forestschool/

Try a FREE no-obligation drama class in your local area Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book.

Families North West London

3

Education

Ten Great Educational Apps for Children

By Claire Winter

Children learn in many different ways including outside of the classroom. This is where educational apps can come in very useful as the best of these engage even the most reluctant learner. As well as being fun ways to learn, educational apps also turn screen time into a positive experience, rather than something you are constantly arguing with your children about.

Here are Families top ten educational apps that will keep any child ‘appy!’ Safari Tales (ÂŁ2.99) By Kuato Games

Cursive Writing Wizard (£4.99) By L’Escapadou This version provides a UK-friendly cursive font, and is ideal for teaching young primary kids how to write.

It’s based upon a tracing system and there are 50 plus animated stickers, sound effects and interactive games that animate letters at the end of the tracing. You can also print off writing PDFs for the kids to practice on and even import their current spelling list.

Age 6-8 • Children can develop their storytelling skills with this beautiful and fun animal-themed app. Safari adventurers can explore the Savannah and learn interesting facts about the five baby animals. The game is so much fun they won’t even notice that they are boosting their reading and litearacy skills at the same time.

Endless Wordplay (Free + In App Purchase)

By Originator Inc. All ages • This app focuses on learning simple spelling patterns while reinforcing letter names and sounds. Each stage is a different rhyme, with the user spelling three words from the same word family. Once you complete all three words, you are taken to a sentence screen with a silly sentence and cute animation that will encourage and delight the player. It’s free to download but to play more than three levels you have to pay £4.99.

St Christopher’s Prep School and Nursery, Wembley

Complete Excellence % % # $ "#%! %" $% !!

ISI Inspection Report 2019

Give your child an outstanding education. ! " "% #%"!% !! % %"! % ""$ % % $$% ! # ! %! % $ % ! $ $ ! $%0208 902 5069 ! % # "%! % $ # "$

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Education Toca Lab: Elements (£3.99) By Toca Boca Age 6+ • This funky app is a virtual chemistry set to inspire future scientists. It introduces your child to all 118 elements of the periodic table as cool, fun characters. It also presents the concepts of what happens during chemical reactions when they are warmed, cooled, combined and much more. Your kids can induldge in exciting virtual experiments that won’t blow up your house!

Hoopa City (£3.99) By Dr. Panda Ltd Age 6+ • This engaging app allows children to let their imaginations run wild building cities and towns with a combination of different materials. The game will boost their understanding of mechanics and engineering and also help them develop their problem-solving skills.

The Human Body (£3.99) By Tinybop Inc Age 6+ • If you have a budding biologist or child with a ‘why’ imagination then this is the app for them. Explore the human body and learn about how our amazing internal organs perform.

Artie’s Magic Pencil (£2.99) By Minilab Ltd Age 3-5 • Boost your child’s drawing skills with this creative app. It shows 3-6 year olds how to draw by means of an engaging game in which a monster destroys everything in its path and Artie has to rebuild the world with his magic pencil.

Squeebles Times Tables (£3.99) By KeyStageFun If you are tired of getting your child to repeat their times tables again and again, then get these lovable characters on hand to inspire your child to sit and practice them.

There are several engaging games to play and a training area that also teaches and tests maths skills too.

Writing wizard fonts and play with letters

Toddler Counting 123 – Learn to count for kids (Free) By GiggleUp Kids Apps Teach your toddler to count with this fantastic free app. Designed for pre-schoolers this simple game gets them to tap and count a variety of real life objects.

Monster Maths Program (6 app subscription £29.99/yr)

By Makkajai Edu Tech Private Ltd. Age 5+ • The Monster Maths program is a suite of 6 Maths games designed to help your child to develop and practice ‘number sense’. Includes offline printable activities to augment digital games for fun math learning.

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5

Education

Why it’s Important to Teach Children to Map Read In today’s technology focussed world, the ability to map read, navigate and successfully get from place to place, remains a vitally important skill to teach our children.

At its most fundamental level, map reading develops children’s spatial thinking skills, which in turn can deepen their knowledge of maths, science and technology. Spatial thinking is something we use in many everyday situations, from rearranging a bookcase, to picturing situations in our ‘mind’s eye.’ It is the fundamental architecture which underpins our lifelong problem-solving skills.

It’s also a great excuse to get outdoors into the wilds and get back to basics with your child in natural or urban surroundings.

Stanfords, the largest map supplier in the world, reports that its sales figures in the last couple of years show that demand for physical maps is not waning. It seems that, as human beings, we prefer to plan our trips with a hard copy, making notes on it and keeping it as a treasured travel memento.

Most significantly, a physical map can’t run out of battery power or be without signal in your hour of need!

Endurance adventurer and Ordnance Survey Get Outside Champion, Sean Conway, who has cycled, swum and run the length of Great Britain, is a lover of physical maps and has fond memories of learning how to map read as a child: “I remember being told how contour lines worked. It became a game to try and look for the steepest section of the map, and then go and find it. If you could climb it, we would!”

Here are five top tips for firing your child’s imagination and getting them engaged with the learned skill of map reading: 1. Just as it’s important to know your left and right, it’s important to understand where north, east, south and west are on a map. You can remember them as: a. Naughty Elephants Squirt Water . Nobody Ever Swallows Whales b c. Never Eat Shredded Wheat 2. If your child is struggling to grasp contours, get them to draw concentric circles on one of their knuckles – when they their finger, a hill appears!

3. M ake directional and geographical vocabulary part of your dialogue with your children from a very early age, and whenever you are out and about together.

4. A great way to pass the time on a long family journey is to give your child a map and ask them to tick off the key symbols on the map as they spot them – e.g. pub, hospital, byway, footpath, wall, farm track.

This instantly turns any mundane journey into a treasure hunt!

5. Often as adults we become scared of maps because we think we won’t be able to decipher them. But just have a go, make it fun and easy going – you might just learn something yourself whilst nurturing your child’s life-long love of adventure.

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Map Reading Activities to Try at Home or Away Get a map of your local area, holiday destination or grandparent’s house and get outside – open your eyes wide and take a look around!

1. What can you actually see around you?

And what does it look like on your map when drawn from above?

2. Have you seen this map before? Are maps flat or three dimensional? Are there any features you can see?

3. Maps use pictures and symbols to explain features of a landscape/area rather than words. Can you locate the key? If you see a feature on the map you don’t recognise you can look it up on the key.

4. Can you decipher both the physical and human features on your map?

Perhaps the park, beaches, forests and rivers or churches, factories, farms and harbours?

5. Make your own map – have a think about the important information you want to include, key physical or human features. Will you start and finish your journey in the same place?

If you get lost, your phone battery is flat or there’s no signal, you never know, some key map reading skills and abilities might just save your life.

Maps give us a wealth of information about our surroundings – they are a clever, valuable and perhaps irreplaceable 2D representation of our incredible 3D world.

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Get in touch admin@coatesway.herts.sch.uk or 01923 670341 to make an appointment to visit “I have had two of my children at the Nursery and both have been very happy and are always excited to go in every morning. My youngest, who is there at the moment, has learnt an incredible amount in such a short space of time. The teaching staff are always lovely and have great connections with the children.” – a local parent

based in Garston, Watford WD25

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Education

Helping Your Children Spot

‘Fake News’ The term ‘fake news’ first came to the fore during the course of the last American Presidential election, when Donald Trump used it to describe some of the news reporting around the campaigns. Since then, debate about ‘fake news’ has hit the headlines amidst concerns that its proliferation is disrupting elections around the world: it’s one of the most talked about subjects of the year.

But what is it? What does it mean to you and your family? Being news-savvy empowers children and keeps them engaged and motivated to find out about the world around them. But what should we be teaching them about ‘fake news?’

A recent BBC survey of 18 countries worldwide found that nearly 8 in 10 people said they worried about what was fake and what was real on the internet. Fake news can easily go viral via social media so it’s vital that children learn to question what they see and read and have the opportunity to discuss it and share their views.

Most school children know what fake news is, but teachers report that many of them aren’t always able to correctly identify it.

They don’t always know what they are looking for.

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By Katie Harrison

Here are our top 5 tips for helping children spot fake news: Question, Question, Question!

Who made this? Who is the target audience? Who paid for this? Or, who gets paid if you click on this? Who might benefit or be harmed by this message?

Is the Article Angry or Emotional?

If it makes you feel very strongly, it could be ‘clickbait’ - a grabbing headline to get you to follow a link.

Check what Other Media are Saying Don’t rely on a single source. Are other well-known news providers sharing this news story? If not, it may not have been verified.

Spell check!

Obvious grammatical errors or spelling mistakes can be a sign that an article hasn’t been professionally produced or proofread and can be a giveaway.

Facts, Facts, Facts!

What proof or evidence does the article give? Does it cite credible research or expert opinions?

Image credit www.picture-news.co.uk If you can help familiarise your children with what is real and ‘fake’ news, they will soon be able to critically assess what they are reading and seeing.

Katie Harrison is an early-years educational expert and founder of Picture News, a new service for schools helping them teach children about the news. More info at www. picture-news. co.uk

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Education

k

Come in and take a look around...

School Open Days

Our Children?

By Gabrielle Nash

arter of jobs, experts believe that AI is not to replace humans but Aldenham Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School hat humans are capableSchool of.

Elstree WD6 Elstree WD6 cientific, a British Boys software and Girls 3-18 yrs (Boarding/Day) Girls 4-18 yrs. elieves that we can teach enquiries@aldenham.com www.habsgirls.org.uk Open Day: Sat 13 Jun, 10am-12.30pm.

Prep to remember?

Open Day: 4+ & 7+: Fri 19 Jun, Wed 1 skills like good communication, The key things 851664. Senior School 01923 Jul. 11+: Tue 30 Jun. 020 8266 2302 email and problem School solving,01923 all before 1. Interpersonal and communication skills are 858122 will look ldevine@habsgirls.org.uk at future technologies vital, because the human factor in a job will kills will be vital for our children still be valuable Alpha Preparatory Haberdashers’ Adams n unpredictable jobs market. School Harrow HA1 Newport, TF10 7BD 2. The ability to adapt is crucial. One set of Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs.

11-18 yrs (boarding) Girls 6th form.

Can You Do to Prepare skills will not last 20 years,Boys so teaching a child www.alpha.harrow.sch.uk www.adamsgs.uk to be resilient and comfortable with change ld?

Open Day: By appointment 0208 427 1471 Open Day: Wed 4 Mar (boarding) 01952 will help them to continuously learn and 953810 od an education your child is evolve.

Buckingham Prep School ere are very few establishments Pinner HA5 Elms Manor School So if your child seems likeHigh they’re not proof curriculum, one that can Boys School 4-11 years Watford WD25 excelling in traditional measures of the development of skills needed www.buckprep.org Boys and Girls 6 months – 11 years. excellence, don’t panic Instead focus on job in 15 to 20 years’ time.

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 2737. www.highelmsmanorschool.com developing their other skills and exploring all Open Day: By appointment. 01923 681103 ps why more and more pathways.

A child who is behind on maths Charlotte House Prep School uld be placed on vocational and English might, in fact,The have fantastic Rickmansworth WD3 John Lyon School he Edge Foundation works on potential people skills. If they’re Girls 3-11 yrs Harrowempathetic on the Hill HA2 he future of education. They and kind, or adaptable and able to find www.charlottehouseprepschool.co.uk Boys 11-18 yrs. d certainties like a university solutions, that could takewww.johnlyon.org them further than Open Day: Fri 6 & Sat 7 Mar, 10-11.30am. o longer guarantee a job. Edge their academic ability andOpen give them the 14 May, 5-7pm. Sat 26 Sep, 01923 772101 Day: Thu ive Alice Barnard believes “We foundation to tackle a myriad of roles in020 the 8515 9400 9.30am-12pm. port young people to capitalize future.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School tivity, develop the problemElstree WD6 Krishna Avanti Primary School For more from Gabrielle Edgware Nash, read her blog munication and Boysteam-working 5-18 yrs.

HA8 @londonishmum mployers are crying out for.” www.habsboys.org.uk Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs.

Open Day: By appointment. 0208 266 1950

www.avanti.org.uk/kapsharrow

Open Day: By appointment.

020 8381 3344 Longwood School and Nursery Bushey WD23 Boys and Girls 3 mths – 11yrs. www.longwoodschool.co.uk Open Day: Every day is Open Day, just call to book a tour. 01923 253715 Lycee International de Londres Winston Churchill Wembley HA9 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs www.lyceeinternational.london Open Day : By appointment. admissions@lyceeinternational.london / +44(0)20 3824 4906 Merchant Taylor’s Prep Rickmansworth WD3 Boys 4-13.

Northwood HA6 Boys 11-18yrs www.mtpn.org.uk www.mtsn.org.uk Open Day: Prep - By appointment. Senior – Sat 16 May, 10am-12,30pm. 01923 825648 (Prep) 01923 845514 (Senior) North London Collegiate School Edgware HA8 Girls 4-18yrs.

ent

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Families North West London

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Education www.nlcs.org.uk Open Day:Mon 16 Mar, 1.30-3.45pm (Senior).

Jun Sch 020 8952 1276, Sen Sch 020 8951 6481/6468.

Northwood College Northwood HA6 Girls 3-18 yrs. www.northwoodcollege.gdst.net Open Day: By appointment; 01923 825446.

North London Grammar School London NW9 Boys & Girls 11-18 yrs. www.northlondongrammar.com Open Day: By appointment. 0208 205 0052 Orley Farm Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 Boys and Girls 4-13yr www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk Open Day: Fri 15 May, 9.30-11am. 020 8869 7634/7600 Quainton Hall School Harrow, HA1 Boys 2.5-13yrs, Girls 2.5-11 yrs. www.quaintonhall.org.uk Open Day: By appointment. admin@quaintonhall.org.uk 020 8861 8861 Reddiford School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9months – 11 yrs. www.reddiford.co.uk Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 0660

Roxeth Mead School HA2 Boys & Girls 3months-7yrs. www.roxethmead.com Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092

St Helen’s School Northwood HA6 Girls 3-18 yrs www.sthelens.london Open Day: Tue 24 Mar. 01923 843230

The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3 Ruspini House Pre School (boys and girls aged 2-4) Cadogan House Pre-Prep and Prep Department (girls aged 4-11), Senior School (girls aged 11-18) Open Day: Sun 4 Oct. 01923 725354

St Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs. www.sthildasbushey.com Open Day: By appointment. 0208 950 1751

St Christopher’s Prep School and Nursery Wembley HA9 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.stchristophersschool.org.uk Open Day: Mon 16 Mar, Mon 27 Apr, Mon 22 Jun, 9.15am. 020 8902 5069 St John’s Church of England School Harrow HA7 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs stjohns.harrow.sch.uk Open Day: Every Tue, 9.30am. 020 8954 3978 St John’s CofE Primary School Watford WD17 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.watfordstjohns.org Open Day: By appointment. 01923 255 017 St Helen’s College Hillingdon UB10 Boys & Girls 2-11 yrs www.sthelenscollege.com Open Day: By appointment 01895 234 371

St John’s School Northwood HA6 Boys aged 3-13. www.st-johns.org.uk Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 0067 St. Margaret’s School Bushey WD23 Girls 4-18 yrs (boarding/day) www.stmargaretsbushey.co.uk Open Day: By appointment. 020 8901 0872 St. Martin’s School Northwood HA6.

Boys 3-13 yrs www.stmartins.org.uk Open Day: Fri 6 Mar, 10am-12pm.

01923 825 740 York House Rickmansworth WD3.

Boys and Girls 3-13 yrs www.york-house.com Open Day: Sat 2 May, 9.30am-12pm. 01923 772 395

Independent day school for boys aged 11 - 18 in North West London.

For details of open days and evenings throughout the year visit www.johnlyon.org

Call us to arrange an individual appointment

HARROW ON THE HILL SOUTH HARROW

Some young boys showed us around the School and they were pretty confident. I looked at those boys and I saw my son in them.

A prospective John Lyon parent

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Families North West London

9

Parenting

Returning to Work after a Break

The Spring is a great time to consider returning to work after a break. Perhaps your youngest has started school, maternity leave is reaching an end or you’ve been thinking about it for a while. Ten2Two is a local recruitment agency specialising in part-time and flexible working roles and they have lots of experience helping returners back into the work place. Here are their top tips: Think about what you want; a break gives important space to think about what makes work enjoyable and fulfilling for you, what to do and where you could work. What did you enjoy most about your previous jobs?

Boost your confidence; look for practical opportunities to regain your professional self. Think about volunteering for a local organisation or a local business you may know. Any recent experience will help your CV feel more up to date.

Revise your tech skills; if you feel out of date

with technology find a way to use the latest MS Office products. Look out for local training courses, visit your library for some practice or ask friends to give you some pointers. Research the current trends in your sector.

Update your professional knowledge and memberships; Get yourself back up-tospeed on your old industry (or a new one) by attending seminars, signing up to newsletters and meeting ex-colleagues to ‘talk shop’. Think about renewing industry memberships - this could be a worthwhile investment as it signals your commitment to returning to work in your specialist area.

Update your CV; It’s likely that your CV needs revising in terms of format and content. Check out Ten2Two’s CV and Interviewing tips on their website.

Refresh your contacts through your network; tell everyone in your daily life that you’re available for work. Use LinkedIn to re-connect with some of your old work contacts and perhaps meet up for a coffee to catch up on industry gossip.

It’s helpful to work with a recruiter such as Ten2Two who understands your position.

Returning after a break is an exciting new chapter in your career and although it may

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take a bit of effort it will be worth it in the end. Good luck!

Here’s what some of their candidates say: “Ten2Two have been amazing! Coming back from Maternity and into a new role is daunting and they have made the whole process easy and smooth. I would 100% recommend getting in touch with Ten2Two!!”

“Ten2Two found me a part-time role that was perfect, fitting well with school hours as well as meeting my skill and salary expectations! Thank you!

Ten2Two work across all sectors and at all levels and regularly place candidates into lovely part-time roles across London and the home counties helping people achieve that all elusive work/life balance.

If you’re looking for a new part-time or flexible role, register with Ten2Two today to see what’s out there for you. www.ten2two.org

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Looking for a flexible working role to help you achieve your career and family aspirations?

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Parenting

Be the parent you want to be!

Spring is a fresh start. It could be a better time than the beginning of the year to generate and commit to change. Less darkness and warmer temperatures quite literally put a spring in our step.

This month I am suggesting that it is the perfect time to reflect on the type of parent you want to be, so you feel more fulfilled and unite the family as a result.

When we become a parent, we can often feel thrust into the job without any preparation. It’s one of the few roles on the planet where there isn’t really training until you bring your child home and get to know them. In between feeding and trying to catch up on sleep, we tend to focus more on what we are potentially doing wrong than all the things we might be doing well. And we definitely don’t make time to think about the type of parent we want to be. What if you did that now?

It’s never too late to decide on the parent you want to be.

How you show up as a parent might not match who you are. Are you someone who is fun or more serious? Do you want to connect with your child through play or education? What sort of a relationship do

you want with them when they emerge from their teenage years? I’ve never met anyone who thinks about this and actively contributes to being that version of themselves every day. But there is great power in it.

So, based on the person you really are when you are not responding to others’ demands and attempting to please, what type of parent do you want to be? There is no right or wrong, it is totally personal.

I want to be the type of parent who my child wants to be around, has great respect for, and can see all the things I can teach. I want to be fun, but not the sitting on the floor playing for hours sort of fun. I am an outdoors person. When she is a teenager, I want her to be able to come to me with anything knowing that I won’t judge but will listen and help if that’s what’s required of me.

Based on how you want your future to look, what is the one thing you could do differently now to be just a small part of your vision?

I, for example, consciously try not to give the answers all the time – I primarily listen, and then wait to be asked for help. This is teaching her that she can talk to me without

me diving in to fix everything.

I also want her to have courage, so we do things that make us nervous so we can expand our comfort zone. For me that looks like upping my ambition, and for her it means going to the top of the climbing wall and abseiling down.

Think about who you want to be as a parent, match it up with the children’s interests, and bingo you have a new formula for how you are going to spend your time. If there are currently things in your schedule that don’t unite you in this way, perhaps try a new activity together for the summer term.

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

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Parties

Party Time!

Check out some of the best local venues and service providers that our area has to offer – but we couldn’t fit them all in! You will find even more online! www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Party Activities Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 4 - 9-year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike!

0333 433 08458 www.enjoy-a-ball.com Monkey Music Monkey’s parties are great fun for children and babies of all ages. Each party is individually tailored to suit each separate occasion and includes singing, dancing, playing instruments and musical party games as well as colourful and sensory props. Please email or call for more information uxbridge.harrow@monkeymusic. co.uk 020 8427 6595 Perform Parties Based around an exciting theme of your choice, Perform’s energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter to create fun-filled, actionpacked parties to remember. Call 0207 255 9120 or visit performparties.co.uk for more info.

Stagecoach Princesses, pirates or detectives, there’s a Stagecoach Party for everyone, and for all occasions! Their themed parties are perfect for children and teenagers looking for a unique celebration to remember. www.stagecoach.co.uk

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Party Venues/Parties onsite

Cinnamon Square - Hands-On Baking Parties & Workshops Cinnamon Square, based in Rickmansworth, is a multi-awardwinning bakery that host the most fun baking parties and workshops for children. They must be good, as we’ve taught over 13,000 children! During the classic party, suitable for 5 years and upwards, the children make bread, pizza, cookies and their own Birthday cake. Cupcake and Chocolate Making parties also available for 9 years and above. Workshops for youngsters, along with special classes for adults and children to attend together, take place during the school holiday. www. cinnamonsquare.com Tel: 01923 778353 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 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. Parties at Cloud 9 are for groups of 10 or more people & include one hour General Admission followed by the Party room for 40 mins. www.cloud9leisure.com Go JumpIn, Their award-winning children’s birthday parties are now bigger, brighter and better than ever including the chance to book a themed Toddler Disco Party Room or Crazy Glow Party in Elstree.

The parties offer a two-hour package of fun for up to 10 children and come complete with: Check in and safety briefing; Jump In socks for all guests; One hour to enjoy all the Jump In facilities; Dedicated party host; Water whilst jumping; Pizza or hot dogs; Plates, cups, plasticware and napkins A range of optional birthday party extras can also be purchased, including, party bags, popcorn, ice cream and sweet pots But essentially, all you need to bring is your guests and the cake! Further details on the party packages are available at: http://bit.ly/JumpinParty email: hello@jumpin.com Tel: 01926 356290 Hertfordshire Sports Village Choose from a range of fantastic birthday parties to celebrate your kids special day at Hertfordshire Sports Village and make it a birthday to remember. Pool Slide Party; Battle Zone Party; Sports Party; Bounce & Play Party; Splash Party and Cheerleading Party. Party Room available. www.hertssportsvillage.co.uk Odds Farm Park Children’s parties at Odds Farm Park include everything you need, just take along your children and the cake! Taking place 7 days per week, the stylish, fully air-conditioned and heated party rooms include virtually everything: All day entrance to the Farm Park, Private Party Room for 2½ hours, Docking station for your own music, Party Food and Party Bags, Special Party Invitations, Animal Masks, Animal Feed for the Goats and Sheep, FREE Admission for 1 Adult for every Child’s place booked and Complimentary Tea and Coffee for Adults. www.oddsfarm.co.uk The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) Fun for kids, hassle-free for parents, “all inclusive” birthday parties at The Windmill Studio Centre, Ruislip Manor, for 1-10 years boys & girls, includes: invitations, party leader & assistant(s), freshly prepared food, decorations, music, lights, games, dancing, props and prizes. Optional extras - adult refreshments, face-painting, party bags etc. Lots of themes to choose from. Modern & clean venue. 01895 624755 thewindmillstudio@gmail.com www.thewindmillstudio.com

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What’s On

Cinnamon Square

Parties

Jump in

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HANDS-ON BAKING PARTIES and WORKSHOPS Cinnamon Square is a multi-award winning bakery that host the most fun baking parties and workshops for 5 years and above.

The parties and workshops, which combine learning with fun, take place in our scientific baking laboratory ‘The Makery’ in Rickmansworth. children make bread, pizza, cookies and their own Birthday cake.

Cupcake and Chocolate Making parties also available for 9 years and over.

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Adult & Child classes also available

01923 778353 enquiries@cinnamonsquare.com www.cinnamonsquare.com

SPECIALIST COOKERY SCHOOL AND BEST TUTOR

FINALIST

These pre-filled delicious sweet favours are perfect for birthday parties, baby showers, thank you gifts and wedding favours!

The boxes come in three sizes and can be customized by different coloured ribbons and stickers. Prices start from £1.00 per box.

For more information or to place an order call 07801 893 650 or send an email to sweetiefavours@gmail.com Instagram page: sweetiefavours familiesonline.co.uk

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Local Clubs & 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 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 Rize (NW6) Your energy will Rize with your favourite group exercise classes sociable and coached fitness in Queens Park,68 Salusbury Rd, London NW6 6NU.  Call 020 7624 8687 or email queenspark@wearerize.co.uk to book your first session.

South Oxhey Choir Why not go along and enjoy an evening with the South Oxhey Choir, no audition required, just enthusiasm for music of all kinds.

Popular classic and classic pop. Meet on Tuesday evenings, term time only, at Oxhey Wood School, Oxhey Drive, South Oxhey with plenty of parking.

7pm-8.30pm. First visit is FREE and if you wish to continue then a subscription is applicable.  Contact: Ann Cox 07852369935 or email:sochoirs@mail.com or annecox0107@gmail.com 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 8 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 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 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.

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 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

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

The Bite Me Corner (HA9) Saturday Cooking and Nutrition sessions at 11:00am-12:00pm or 12:30-1:00pm at The Yellow, Wembley. For children aged 7+. Using a combination of organic and commercial produce we create a variety of delicious dishes! From pizza to raspberry white chocolate muffins, Carrot and quinoa balls! The list goes on! Contact us for Cooking and Nutrition Workshops! contact Lauri on  07957155421 or  contact@ thebitemecorner.com 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

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 8 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.

8To book a FREE TRIAL contact tejal. patel@diddidance.com 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 courses.  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 Everyone Active (various) Everyone Active’s awarding winning learn to swim programme offers lessons for all ages of swimmers, from child classes starting at 4 months right through to adult classes and are available at over 120 sites.

All swimming teachers are Swim England level 2 (or equivalent) qualified. All stages are progressive and continually assessed, initially developing water confidence and then teaching children to swim. As they improve, this distance is increased and all strokes are introduced. They also have the opportunity to develop water safety skills and other aquatic disciplines such as Rookie Lifeguard, synchronised swimming diving and water polo.  www.everyoneactive.com/content-hub/swimming/ 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 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

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Local Clubs & Classes Directory 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  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

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 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

Aqua Vie are doing regular weekly Tues, Thurs and Sunday Classes in Bushey during term times. Spaces for New babies, toddlers & Adults on Tues and Thurs. 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 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

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 Street Dance Academy (various) Teach children aged 5-18 yrs every weekend during school term time, with clubs in and around London, Hertfordshire and Surrey. Street Dance Academy also teach Adult Street Dance Classes and Zumba Classes in Twickenham every Wednesday.  0800 0236 236  www. streetdanceacademy.co.uk T​ artan 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 Elina Patrou Academy of Dance (formerly The Van Niekerk Academy) (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  www.elinapatrouacademyofdance.com, elinapatrouacademyofdance@ gmail.com  07555861561

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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 offers affordable classes in SINGING, DRAMA, DANCE and MUSICAL THEATRE for students aged 4-18, as well as an accredited MUSICAL THEATRE QUALIFICATION! Our unique approach to teaching, combined with our small class sizes means that each student is given the training and attention they deserve. Classes are designed to build confidence, encourage creativity and curiosity as well as teamwork. We inspire our students to reach their full potential so they can excel in every aspect of life - not just the performing arts.

All The World’s A Stage. Book your FREE TRIAL/AUDITION in Edgware:  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, Dartmouth Park, Golders Green, Eastcote, Northwood, Pinner, Harrow, Kensal Rise, Kentish Town, Stanmore, West Hampstead and Wembley.  020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk  www.perform.org.uk Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) A new school year is here - time to try something new with your weekend? their popular dance, singing and drama weekend classes for 3-18-year-olds are designed to develop children’s confidence, self-expression, focus and social skills, while having fun and making lots of new friends. Parents share in the excitement and their children’s progress with regular presentations, shows and reports from their team of highly experienced teachers. For more information or to book a two-week trial, search for your nearest school on their website 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 Sylvia Young Theatre School (W1H) A specialist performing arts school offering familiesonline.co.uk

Dance

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 After-school/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs) Contact to book your place:  Keshma 07419343105  keshma.artzania@gmail.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 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 The Bite Me Corner (UB3) After-School Cooking and Nutrition programme at Cranford Park Academy. Join us on Wednesday 3:30pm- 4:30 and Friday 3:30-5:00pm. For children aged 7+. Get your children excited about making healthy nutritious snacks that they will be able to recreate independently!

Using a combination of organic and commercial produce we make overnight fruity oats, perfect for breakfast next day or Cheesy-rice- salad! The list goes on!  contact Lauri on 07957155421 or contact@thebitemecorner.com

Brain Train Tuition Centre (HA2) English & Maths Tuition For Ages 5 – 16 years.

Brain Train Tuition will help to improve your child’s academic and social skills, as well as building their confidence and a belief in their ability to succeed. braintraintuition@gmail.com  0208 426 8425 www.braintraintuition.co.uk 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 Classes and Camps (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 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. 8 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 Hatch End 11+ Tuition (HA5) Hatch End 11+ Tuition is an established and successful tutoring centr offering a warm and friendly environment where children are encouraged and motivated to achieve their maximum potential whatever their ability. Their aim is to build children’s confidence and help them achieve high standards of work in an engaging and challenging environment.  020 8421 3066  www.hatchend11plus.co.uk 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 Karen Wilkin Tuition (HA) 4+/5+ tuition. One to one, tailor made, hands-on, 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 Little Big Leaders (HA8/WD23) Academic tutoring for 3.5-18 years. 1:1 Tutoring, Group Tuition and Revision Programmes for the academically ambitious.  020 3637 6266  info@littlebigleaders.com www.littlebigleaders.com 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 6744.8  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) Sounds Right Phonics (various) Sounds Right Phonics Classes for Kids provide fun, high energy classes which teach early phonics skills to children aged 1-4 years. A Sounds Right Phonics Class is fun, varied and educational, and the best part is that children don’t even realise that they are learning.  www.soundsrightphonicsclasses.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.  wendy@touchtypeit.co.uk www.touchtypeit.co.uk

Families North West London

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Camps & Term Break Childcare Aqua Vie Regular weekly Tues Wed and Sunday classes in Bushey during term times. Spaces for new babies Tues, Wed and Thurs, 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 Blag Youth Theatre Blag Youth Theatre’s Summer Project: Sound of Muzak, from July 27th - August 8th 2020. Open to all kids from 7 - 17yrs. 10am - 6pm Mon to Fri for the first week and then Mon to Sat the second week. The rehearsals take place in Chorleywood and the show is performed at The Elgiva Theatre, Chesham.

01923 772320 www.blagtheatre.co.uk Brain Train Tuition Centre Intensive 11+ courses taking place over the summer holidays. They will run four separate parts of the course in English, Mathematics, Verbal Reasoning and Non-verbal Reasoning, each part runs every weekday for two weeks. www.braintraintuition.co.uk

part in during half term and the school holidays, look no further than Camp Beaumont. The UK’s most experienced day camp provider which is now in its 40th year hosts a wealth of activities for three to 16-year-olds to enjoy such as zorbing, go-carting and arts and crafts as well as a range of sports including tennis, swimming and hockey. The camps are a great chance for kids to try something new and make new friends, while having lots of fun in the process. Jof Gaughan, Operations Director, said: “It’s always great to see the children having such a fun time at our camps. Whether they come for a day or the whole week, it’s nice to see them making new friends and getting stuck in with exciting activities. “Coming to camp is a great way to make the most of the holidays and ensure they are making memories to last them a lifetime.”

For more information visit www.campbeaumont.co.uk

taught by tutors from some of the UK’s leading universities. FireTech are running courses over the Easter and summer holidays Watford, Imperial College London, Hampstead and Central London. Courses run for 5 days. www.firetechcamp.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

Future Stars Theatre Arts (HA5) Run an amazing Easter and 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.

Suitable for 4-16 years. Easter Academy 6th to 9th April, 9am – 3.15pm info@futurestarstheatrearts.co.uk 07912538656 www.futurestars.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

Fun Fest Holiday Club Watford at Holywell Primary School offers children a choice about spending their holidays. With an exciting menu of activities to choose children can plan their own individual holiday programme, developing social and physical skills. Fun Fest -Watford is Ofsted registered for children from 3 years, run by qualified and experienced childcare practitioners along with sports coaches/enthusiastic students.

Tel: 07892721317 www.fun-fest.co.uk watfordoffice@ funfestholidayclub.co.uk

Hatch End 11+ Tuition Summer Holiday courses in preparation for the 11+. Offered to children in Year 4 and Year 5. www.hatchend11plus.co.uk Fire Tech Camps Teaching 21st Century Tech Skills to 9-17 Year Olds in Watford, Imperial College London, Hampstead and Central London. FireTech offers hands-on, innovative education technology courses that provide 9 - 17-year-olds with the 21st-century skills they need to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven economy. Founded in 2013, by mum of two, Jill Hodges, Fire Tech has delivered over 16,000 tech courses such as Python Coding, Creative Digital Design, and new courses such as Artificial Intelligence and how to start a tech start-up. Each course is

Camp Beaumont For families looking for fun educational experiences for children to take

DATES

Weekends and School Holidays LOCATIONS

Watford, Imperial College London, Hampstead and Central London

Hertfordshire Sports Village Multiple activities in one day is what is being offered at the new and improved Kids Village Holiday Camps in 2020. Camps have now been revamped to include Multi-sports fun, Climbing taster sessions for 8+ years, Pre-lunch fun in the swimming pool with 6m high pool slide and inflatables, Bounce and Play fun on the obstacle course bouncy castle, Battlezone extravaganza with Nerf Guns and Soft Archery. An ideal childcare solution for working parents during school holidays, parents can drop children off between 08:00-09:00 and pick-up between 16:0017:00. www.hertssportsvillage.co.uk

COURSES

— Artificial Intelligence (NEW!) — Start Up A Tech Startup — Hollywood Special Effects (NEW!) — Creative Digital Design — Video Game Design — Python Coding & MORE!

BUILD+ _CODE CREATE_ UK’S #1 TECH CAMP FOR 9-17 YEAR OLDS

£50 OFF* Promo Code WA50

FREE TASTER SESSIONS AVAILABLE Childcare vouchers accepted.

Scholarships available.

16

Families North West London

Book now at fire-tech.com *T&Cs apply

familiesonline.co.uk

Camps & Term Break Childcare the part when they attend their 8 weekly sessions and it’s all delivered straight to your door. To find out more about how to get involved this summer, simply visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk and get your place booked as sessions begin May2020.

Hillingdon Outdoor Activities Centre (HOAC) Sailing, Windsurfing, Kayaking and Land activities for 5-18 yr olds. 6 - 9 April and 14 - 17 April 2020. 01895 824 171 www.hoac.net

holiday workshops, the students will join together to showcase their new-found singing, acting and dancing skills to family and friends. www.stagecoach.co.uk Street Dance Academy End of term Summer Workshop, Sat 11th July. A day of fun, choreography and performances all taught by the fabulous Street Dance team.

Open to all Street Dance Academy School students, family, friends and Non Members. At Mill Hill County High School NW7, 10am-4pm. www.streetdanceacademy.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 Knowledge Above Standard Private tuition in the four basic subjects that are required for any entrance examinations, Grammar or Independent Schools. It specialises to teach each child’s personal requirement according to weaknesses and strengths and their future school goals. Sessions run during weekdays over holidays, 9-11am and 11am-1pm. www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk

Type IT! Intensive Holiday Courses run every day for a week for up to five students. That’s a crash course of 5 daily 2-hour lessons to kick start your touch typing skills!6th – 9th April in Harrow. To book contact Type IT! on 020 8434 7111. www.touchtypeit.co.uk Perform Superheroes: Perform’s three day Easter holiday course for 4-10s.

Fly with us to Superhero School this April for an action-packed Top Secret Mission to save the world. Your child will discover their own special powers as they zoom towards a supercharged showcase for family and friends. Filled with brilliant music, funky dances and fabulous costumes, this course is a real Easter treat. perform.org.uk/superheroes Age range: 4-10 years.

Dates: 15th-17th April. Three day courses from 10am to 3pm each day.

Venues: St Luke’s Parish Hall, Pinner, HA5 3EX Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk

Little Big Leaders Intensive Sessions over the summer. A perfect opportunity for utilising 1:1 or group tuition to catch up with, consolidate or extend knowledge, skills and understanding in Phonics & Writing from age 3.5 upwards, English & maths at KS1 and KS2 and English, maths & science at KS3, GCSE and A Level. www.littlebigleaders.com 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 ALL STARS CRICKET All Stars Cricket is a programme aimed at children aged 5-8 years old to give them a great first experience in cricket. Sessions are accredited by the England & Wales Cricket Board and delivered nationwide at over 2,000 centres. All Stars Cricket will help your child develop key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in too and help create #BigMoments you’ll both treasure! Following successful registration, All Stars Cricketers will receive a brand-new kit bag full of goodies to help them get their summer of cricket started and fully look

All Stars Cricket All Stars Cricket is a programme aimed at children aged 5-8 years old to give them a great first experience in cricket. Sessions are accredited by the England & Wales Cricket Board and delivered nationwide at over 2,000 centres. All Stars Cricket will help your child develop key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in too and help create #BigMoments you’ll both treasure! Following successful registration, All Stars Cricketers will receive a brand-new kit bag full of goodies to help them get their summer of cricket started and fully look the part when they attend their 8 weekly sessions and it’s all delivered straight to your door. To find out more about how to get involved this summer, simply visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk and get your place booked as sessions begin May2020.

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 evidence-based computer programs that present the perfect compromise between play and work. Oneto-one intervention scientifically proven to improve your child’s grades. Contact Usha Patel -Raviv Practice London- on 07766 837 616 Sharpe Academy Musical Theatre Intensive from 24th – 28th August at St Helen’s School, Northwood. Masterclasses will be run everyday from 9am-5pm by a variety of teachers from West End/International Musicals, Tv & Film and resident Sharpe Academy teachers. For ages 6-18 years. www.sharpeacademy.co.uk Stagecoach Children and Teenagers can make friends, have fun and develop some great new skills at the fabulous Stagecoach Holiday Drama Clubs and Workshops for 6-18 yrs. At the end of their time at the Stagecoach

Holiday Club

Holiday Club

for children aged 3-12 years

Stanburn Primary School Abercorn Road, Stanmore, Harrow HA7 2PJ

Cassiobury Junior School 5 Bellmount Wood Avenue, Watford WD17 3BN

Telephone: 07892 721317

8.00am - 5.45pm

HARROW

Aged 3-12 years

WATFORD

• £35 full d ay • £32 for sib lings • £20 half d ay (Morning or Afternoon

• £160 full

)

• £27.50 for a full day • £25 for a sibling • £15 per morning or afternoon • £120 full week (Monday - Friday)

week

(Mon - Fri)

For our latest activity timetables, go to:

fun-fest.co.uk/stanview/

Tel: 07543 552 349 email: harrowoffice@funfestholidayclub.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

To see our latest timetables and to book your children’s chosen activities go to: OFSTED Registered

fun-fest.co.uk

Families North West London

17

E B R A TI N

40

3 to 16 year olds

G

CEL

years of

Camp Be aumont

Inspiring adventures throughout the school holidays Learn new skills • Make new friends • Enjoy new activities

Over 20 fantastic locations across London and beyond including St Helen’s, Northwood Harrow School, Harrow

ss

week pa

1 day pass

from

from

£48

new location!

3 day pass

£224

from

£138 BOOK NOW!

www.campbeaumont.co.uk

01603 851000 bookings@campbeaumont.co.uk

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 (May/June 2020 issue) send your entry by 6 April 2020. 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!

Sun 8, 22 & 29 Mar - Discover Sunday Family Workshops (SE10) Celebrate Women’s History Month with Sunday workshops at the National Maritime Museum, looking at the amazing women in the Museum’s collection. Go along on Saturdays for Character Encounters and meet inspiring women who will tell you about their lives. 2-4pm. www.rmg.co.uk

Sat 14 – Tue 24 Mar - Harrow Arts Society Spring Exhibition (HA4) This exhibition is to give the members of the Harrow Arts Society the opportunity to display their art work/sculpture/pottery/glass work/print and various media. The work displayed is diverse in nature with a mixture of figurative and abstract pictures.

The exhibition is free and open to view 7 days a week, 10am - 4pm. • www.harrowarts.com

Sat 7 Mar & Sat 4 Apr - Northwood Craft Market (HA6) Taking place at Methodist Church Hall, Northwood from 10am-2pm, there will be a variety of handmade crafts to browse & buy. It’s the perfect place to find original gifts, or a treat for yourself. Children can try some hands-on crafts and make something to take home. www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk

Thu 12 Mar - Tiny Troopers: Poppies (SW3) Take your little ones to the toddlers’ session at the National Army Museum, perfect for ages 2 to 4. Sing, play and create with your little one at these fun, sensory sessions.

For this session we will be exploring poppies and how they link to Remembrance. Workshops start at 10am and 11.20am, and last approximately 45 minutes. www.nam.ac.uk

Sat 21 Mar – Lots for Tots Sale (HA4) Go along to this busy sale at Deane Park Hall in Ruislip, where you can find great quality, second hand baby and toddler equipment, clothes, toys and more at bargain prices. 2-4pm, entry £1. www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk samdeb@lotsfortotssale.co.uk

Sat 7 Mar - Birds of Prey Talk (WD5) Abbots Langley Library will be holding a talk on birds of prey, suitable for all the family. Children will get the chance to ask questions and see a falcon, an owl and a hawk. There will also be a craft session where children can colour in a picture.

10.30am-12pm. Booking essential, tickets available from the library and online. www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

Sat 14 Mar - Meet the Coder Dojo Club (SE10) The Prince Philip Maritime Collection Centre Coder Dojo is a free monthly coding club for young people (7-17) interested in programming. This month, for British Science Week, the Coder Dojo Ninjas are at the National Maritime Museum, showing visitors their projects inspired by the Museum’s collections. 10.30am-12pm. www.rmg.co.uk

Sun 8 Mar - Relaxed Early Opening for Families (NW1) A free autism-friendly early opening of the British Library from 9-11am. 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. Explore the permanent gallery, Treasures of the British Library, and take part in a storytelling workshop and hands-on activities in the Learning Centre. A dedicated sensory room will also be available for children needing a quieter and calmer space.

For more information please e-mail outreach@bl.uk, or call +44 (0)207 412 7797.

Sat 14 Mar - Spotlight: Sappers (SW3) Meet serving soldiers from the Royal Engineers at the National Army Museum. Watch live demonstrations and take on family-friendly challenges. www.nam.ac.uk

MARCH Sun 1 – Tue 31 Mar - Storytelling Festival (various) Hillingdon Libraries’ first-ever Storytelling Festival takes place throughout March 2020 and will bring together; World Book Day, Shakespeare Week and World Storytelling Day, along with a whole host of events and activities for all ages. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/culturebite

Sun 8 Mar - International Women’s Day (EC2Y/E14) An equal world is an enabled world. Go and join in at the Museum of London and the Museum of London Docklands to celebrate International Women’s Day. Free talks and tours throughout the day will celebrate women through history. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

de Havilland Campus, Hatfield Business Park, AL10 9EU

and

Sat 14 – Sun 15 Mar - Vegan Life Live 2020 (N22) Vegan Life Live is a weekend you won’t forget! Try pizza, kebabs, ice creams, pasta, curry, soul food – go along with an empty stomach to take advantage of all the amazing food. There will be over 200 exhibitors, providing everything from vegan cheese, burgers and brownies to handbags, supplements, spices and so much more. Takes place at Alexandra Palace. www.tickets.primeimpact.co.uk/tc-events/vegan-life-livelondon/

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Sat 21 Mar - LGBTQ+ Family Network (SE10) A safe space for local LGBTQ+ families to meet one another, get involved in creative activities for all ages and explore the stories within the National Maritime Museum’s collection. 10am-12pm. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 21 Mar - Astronomy and Islam: Family Special (SE10) Held before the predicted sighting of the next New Crescent Moon, join a Royal Observatory Astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich to discover Arabic tales about characters and creatures that people imagined by joining together the bright stars in the sky. Find out which stars astronomers still call by their original Arabic names and what some of those stars are famous for today. 10-10.45am. www.rmg.co.uk Sun 22 Mar - Mum goes free for Mother’s Day at WWT London Wetland Centre (SW13) Spring is the ideal time to visit London Wetland Centre, with the flowers beginning to bloom and ducklings waddling after their mothers. Treat your mum to a relaxing day out with a walk to watch the wildlife flitting among the gardens and meadows. Your mum gets free admission to the Centre when accompanied by a paying child or adult. Just quote ‘Mums go free’ at admissions. www.wwt.org.uk continued on page 20

Build confidence, skills & ability in water Learn to Swim Crash Courses available this Easter holiday.

In just 5 days of intense tuition, children can go from nervous non-swimmers to confident and happy independent swimmers!

Monday 6 – Thursday 9 April Tuesday 14 – Friday 17 April

For more info or to book, visit: hertssportsvillage.ac.uk/kids-village-holiday-activities

familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London

19

What's On

What’s On

listings for all the family

night of your visit and the month ahead, with opportunities Sun 29 Mar - Big Fish Little Fish MARCH to ask questions afterwards. 10-10.45am.

Family Rave (WD17) Award-winning, pioneering Big www.rmg.co.uk Fish Little Fish family rave returns triumphantly to the Mon 23 Mar - Tiny Troopers: Music (SW3) Watford Colosseum. This time Freestylers will be playing acid Bring your little ones to the toddlers’ session at the National house, techno, and drum ‘n’ bass throughout the afternoon.Compiled by Anna Blackshaw Sat 4 Apr – Opening of The Story Army Museum, perfect for ages 2 to 4. Sing, play and create There will also be crafts, confetti, bubbles, club visuals, baby Museum (OX1) The Story Museum is a magical with your little at these fun,your sensorylocal sessions.event, This session Toone promote coffee nearly new sale, parenting or community group in themuseum next chillmorning, area, giant balloons and licensed bar for families with courses located in the heart of Oxford dedicated to sharing and will be exploring music.

Workshops start at 10am and 11.20am, year olds.

2-4pm.your entry by 1 Feb 2020. Email Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk.

What’s On listing (March/April 20200-8issue) send collecting great stories. The museum promises a fantastic and last approximately 45 minutes. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting case anything has since going day outoffforinfamilies and children of changed all ages to engage with to print. www.nam.ac.uk stories. It also houses Small Worlds, a play space for younger Sun 29 Mar - Family Guided Cycle for all our local weekly regular events.

It’sby well-loved updated every Wed 25 Mar www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk – Sun 5 Apr – The 22nd children inspired picture books day! that features Ride (UB3) Enjoy an easy, family-orientated guided cycle UK Asian Film Festival (HA5) Harrow Arts Centre is ride with Hillingdon cycle instructors, with a stop for original illustrations, secret tunnels and a giant bed for pleased welcome The133UK Asian Film Festival. Now in its refreshments and a chance to enjoy the sights of Hillingdon. storytime, as well as a theatre for live performance and the What’s OntoJan/Feb 2020back - Issue 22nd year and with a central theme of Uprooted, the festival JANUARY City of Stories, an audiovisual journey through Oxford’s Ride length: 2 to 3 hours. Meeting point: Botwell Green Sports celebrates the vibrancy of South Asian culture through film, literary history. and Leisure Centre from 1-4pm.

There is no need to book but Fri 3 Jan - Pantomime Pandemonium (UB10) intertwining relevant social messages with top class www.storymuseum.org.uk you will need to register 15 minutes before the published Get into the pantomime spirit with games and activities inspired by the entertainment.

Great British pantomime, in this hour-long session at Oak Farm Library start time.

Sat 4 – Sun 5 Apr - Spies and Disguise www.harrowarts.com from 3pm. Suitable for ages 6 to 10. Free event - no need to book.

Email: cycling@hillingdon.gov.uk (SE1) Coinciding with the release of the latest Bond film No www.hillingdontheatres.uk Thu 26 Mar - First World War Flying Time to Die, Spies and Disguise at the Imperial War Museum Sat 4 – Sun 5 Jan Woolly Jumpers (SE10) Machines (NW9) Go to the RAF Museum for an exciting APRIL London will put families through their paces in a crash course Boing and bounce a fluffy sheep made with wool just like the stuff Cutty evening the from barriers and peering inside and some of spy school inspired by real life spies from the Second World Sark usedstepping to carry allover the way Australia!

11:30am-1:30pm 2-4pm the earliest at Cutty Sark. aircraft in the collection. Explore these astounding War to the present day. Created in partnership with Puffin Thu 2 – Sun 5 Apr - Disney On Ice early machines that tell the story of the development of flight www.rmg.co.uk and their new children’s book Find The Spy, this secret presents Magical Ice Festival (HA9) An from reconnaissance the protection of Concert civilian Wedaerial 8 Jan - Bach toto Baby Family mission involves dressing up to look the part, an assault awe-inspiring Disney experience for the whole family, populations ground during the First (NW3) Bachand to Baby is thetroops acclaimed concert seriesWorld for theWar. whole course with Commando Joes, object-handling, immersive featuring Moana, Frozen and other timeless favourites! Take family to www.rafmuseum.org.uk enjoy together. Featuring outstanding musicians and 6-9pm. theatre elements and gallery activities. 11am-4pm. adventure to new heights as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse exhilarating performances in inspiring venues right on your doorstep. www.iwm.org.uk and your friends from around the Disney Kingdom come 10.30am28 at Hampstead House.

Sat Mar – Burgh Mum2Mum Sale Harrow together with Disney On Ice presents Magical Ice Festival at www.bachtobaby.com (HA3) Buy quality preloved baby and children’s goods at a Sat 4 – Sun 5 Apr - Quilled Ships (SE10) London at The SSE Arena, Wembley.

Sat 11ofJan & Fri 7 Feb Dino fraction the high street price.–Sell your Snores outgrown for babyKids and Learn the art of paper rolling in this family art workshop. Find www.disneyonice.co.uk (SW7) wondermums what happens in the of Museum when everyone’s kids stuffEver to other & keep 100% the proceeds.

At outbyallAnna aboutBlackshaw Cutty Sark’s history and make a beautiful ship to Compiled gone home?

The night begins as you set up camp in one of the Museum’s Weald Rise Primary School from 2.30-4.30pm. take home with you. Ages 4+.

Sat 4 Apr - Family Music Jam Session spectacular galleries, and there will be plenty to learn and discover For further information emailStalk harrow@mum2mummarket.co. www.rmg.co.uk To your local event, morning, The nearly new sale, parenting or community group in the next Workshop: Junk Orchestra (WD3) courses during your stay atpromote the Museum. the galleries as night descendscoffee uk and www.mum2mummarket.co.uk find T. rexWhat’s in hidden inOn shadows.

At midnight, it’s time to settle down Children’s Festival 12-23 Feb theImagine Junksend Orchestra at Watersmeet Theatre and boogie on Email Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk. listing (March/April 2020Joinissue) your entry by 1 Feb 2020.

Sat 4, 11 & 18 Apr - Ship Shape (SE1) The to sleep. For ages 7-11. a tuned sonic collection or percussion wind and string!

Listings this-section are FREEClassical for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in iscase anything has the changed since going Sat 28 in Mar Children’s www.nhm.ac.uk whole family invited to help keep iconic warship, HMS to print.

Children can also build a drum to take home So take a tin, Concert: Master Music Weekend Belfast, family-friendly in tip-top condition.

Visitors to Ship Shape Saturdays pot and plastic bottle to add to the fun!

Recommended for Fri 17 – Sun 19 Jan London Model day will include make and take craft workshops, stories, for all our local weekly regular events. updated every day!

Festival (WD3) www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk The Children’s Concert, taking place at the can dropperformances, in andIt’s learnand about what it Lion takes to conserve HMS Exhibitionby(N22) Now in adult its 24thatyear, a traditional Dance.

4+. Engineering Children must be accompanied a full paying Clarendon Muse on Rickmansworth Road, aims to inspire and the popular exhibition returns to the iconic Alexandra Palace.

This Belfast, the largest object in IWM’s collection.

Alongside www.rmg.co.uk all times. educate of133 all ages in the world of classical leading exhibition for model engineers continues to enthral visitors expert conservators, willGroovers: put their learning into What’s Onyoung Jan/Febaudiences 2020 - Issue Sat 25 Janvisitors - Tiny A Day-Time Party www.watersmeet.co.uk music.

This eagerly anticipated concert will feature Daniela and enthusiasts alike with thousands of scale models from the early practicefor JANUARY as they work through assigned tasks Under 5s andspecially their Adults (E2) Visit the V&A age of steam engines right up to today’s modern marvels. There will be Mars, who will discuss and perform on a range of different Museum of Childhood let loose stomp feet with with your Tiny for hungry insecttopests andand caring foryour fabrics 4 Apr - Mischief infrom creating searching Fri 3 Jan - Pantomime Pandemonium (UB10) Sat plenty of ‘hands on’ activities for and childrenMystery to participate in, flutes.

Groovers.

Dance away the1.30–3.30pm.

January blues and enjoy a DJ set from Mr specialised tools.

11am–1pm, the Moomin Valley (N6) Be sure to pack your a large LEGO mosaic at the Fairy Bricks stand to taking part in model Get into the pantomime spirit with games and activities inspired by the Manic of Lucky Dip Disco and the surreal and spectacular storytelling www.mastermusicpublications.com/festival20 imagination andat go on an unforgettable experiments thealong Imagineering Foundation standjourney science to lab or even www.iwm.org.uk Great British pantomime, in this hour-long session at Oak Farm Library from The No-Shamen. Other activities include a movement session a treasure hunt! from 3pm. Suitable for ages 6 to 10. Free event - no need to book.

Moomin Valley where everyone is welcome, nature thrives with4-Mon a contemporary activities and sensory experiences for Sat 28 – Sun 29 Mar – Learn to Play Sat 13dancer, Apr arts - Cadbury Easter www.londonmodelengineering.co.uk www.hillingdontheatres.uk and adventures are plentiful.

Magical puppetry, an ingenious babes. 1-3pm.

Day (various) The Learn to Play Day events offer the general Egg Hunt (HP18) Go on a fun-filled nature-themed egg popMon up book original musicTroopers: and interactive play will(SW3) 20set, Jan - Tiny Posters Sat 4the – chance Sun 5toJan (SE10) www.vam.ac.uk/moc public have-a Woolly free ‘taster’Jumpers lesson on a musical hunt around the grounds of Waddesdon. The trail, in Take young your little ones to the toddlers’ session atatthe National Army Boing and bounce a fluffy sheep made with wool just like the stuff Cutty delight audiences aged 4 to 7 years Lauderdale Sat 25 Jan - Inventors of Tomorrow Family instrument.

Whether played, or whether with Cadbury, startsAreat you thelooking North Front (near the family Museum, perfectbyfora ages to 4.and Sing,crafts play session and createforwith your little onepartnership Sark used to carry all theyou wayhave from never Australia!

11:30am-1:30pm andyou 2-4pm House.

Followed free 2arts families Workshop (W11) for some quality used play, the Learn to Play Days are for you! Check the each time, Tiny Troopers will have a different theme, with this session at CuttytoSark.

House) and finishes theforWoodland Café. Last is at of Brands as you learning?

Enjoyatfun the whole family at thetrail Museum after the performance. website for details of local venues. being inspired by Army posters. www.rmg.co.uk 3.30pm.experiment, There will learn be non-food prizes for those who havewith the unique and explore the world of technology, www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk Sessions start at 10am and 11.20am, and last approximately 45 minutes. allergies.Inventors of Tomorrow workshop in collaboration with tech toy experts, www.learntoplayday.com Wed 8 Jan - Bach to Baby Family Concert www.nam.ac.uk (NW3) Bach to Baby is the acclaimed concert series for the whole Big Clown. 2-3pm. www.waddesdon.org.uk Sat 4 Apr - Morning Stars (SE10) This early Sat 25 Jan - Chinese New Year (SE10) Visit the family to enjoy together. Featuring outstanding musicians and amy@museumofbrands.com www.museumofbrands.com morning show at the Royal Observatory Greenwich is for National Maritime Museum and celebrate the Year of the Rat. This exhilarating performances in inspiringPaediatric venues right on your doorstep.

Sat 4 – Sun 19 Apr - Animal Easter First children with an Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) and their 10.30am at Hampstead Burgh House.

Trail (NW9) The Easter Bunny has lots of his animal friends families and carers. Explore the night sky and find out live Aid Courses www.bachtobaby.com in the RAF Museum, go and find them and find out why they from a Royal Observatory Astronomer what is visible on the Sat 11 Jan & Fri 7 Feb – Dino Snores for Kids

What’s On

What’s On

Sat 7th March; Tues 17th Sat 4th April NOW! Harrow on the Hill (SW7) EverBOOK wonder what happens inMarch; the Museum when everyone’s gone home? The night begins as you set up camp in one of the Museum’s Ofsted Registration. spectacularSuitable galleries, andfor there will be plenty to learn and discover Includes some study. during your stay at the Museum.

Stalk home the galleries as night descends and find T. rex in hidden in shadows. At midnight, it’s time to settle down Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85 to sleep. For ages 7-11. www.nhm.ac.uk Contact Margaret at mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk

or on 07814 191 395 for bookings

20

Families North West London

Paediatric First

12 Families North West London

listings for all the family

Art and Craft Activity Club

Imagine Children’s Festival 12-23 Feb

Mother-toddler club Luke’ s Pinner Parish Fri 17St. – Sun 19 Jan - London Model Hall family-friendly day will include make and take craft workshops, stories, (Ages 1 - 4 yrs) Lion Dance.

Engineering Exhibition (N22) Now in its 24th year, performances, and a traditional Pinner (Term-time and holidays) the popular exhibition returns to the iconic Alexandra Palace. This www.rmg.co.uk After-school club leading exhibition for model engineers continues to enthral visitors (Ages 5 - 1 1 Groovers: yrs) Sat 25 Jan - Tiny A Day-Time Party Bernays Memorial Hall and enthusiasts alike with thousands of scale models from the early for Under 5s and their Adults (E2) Visit the V&A age of steam engines right up to today’s modern marvels. There will be Stanmore (Term-time) Museum of Childhood to let loose and stomp your feet with your Tiny plenty of ‘hands on’ activities for children to participate in, from creating Groovers. Dance away the January blues and enjoy a DJ set from Mr a large LEGO mosaic at the Fairy Bricks stand to taking part in model Manic of Lucky Dip Disco and the surreal and spectacular storytelling experiments at the ImagineeringMethodist Foundation stand science lab or even Northwood Church from The No-Shamen. Other activities include a movement session a treasure hunt! with a contemporary dancer, arts activities and sensory experiences for Northwood (Term-time and holidays) www.londonmodelengineering.co.uk babes. 1-3pm.

Nurturing curiosity, creativity & imagination!

Mon 20 Jan - Tiny Troopers: Posters (SW3) www.vam.ac.uk/moc Take your little ones to the toddlers’ session at the National Army Contact: Keshma Sat 25 Jan - Inventors of Tomorrow Family Museum, perfect for ages 2 to 4. Sing, play and create with your little one keshma.artzania@gmail.com (W11) Birthday Are you looking for some quality family Art andWorkshop Craft Club Club - each07419343105 time, Tiny Troopers will have a different theme, with this session learning? Enjoy fun for the whole family at the Museum of Brands as you beingwww.artzania.co.uk inspired by Army posters.

H experiment, learn and explore the world of technology, with the unique Sessions start at 10am and 11.20am, and last approximately 45 minutes.

Inventors of Tomorrow workshop in collaboration with tech toy experts, www.nam.ac.uk Big Clown. 2-3pm. familiesonline.co.uk Sat 25 Jan - Chinese New Year (SE10) Visit the amy@museumofbrands.com www.museumofbrands.com National Maritime Museum and celebrate the Year of the Rat. This familiesonline.co.uk

NEWS

might be hiding underneath the aircraft. Find all the animals and you will receive a delicious Cadbury Easter Egg when you hand in your trail. www.rafmuseum.org.uk

National Maritime Museum is challenging families to discover this magical continent. Meet scientists from the UK Polar Network, be inspired by the region and get creative. www.rmg.co.uk

Sat 4 – Sun 19 Apr - Easter HoliSun 5 – Tue 14 Apr - Sea Legs (SE1) This New Dance days at theStreet Bunker (UB10) Go along to the Battle classes new interactive family activity at HMS Belfast explore the of Britain Bunker for the Easter holidays! Families can work science and ingenuity needed to keep the ship and her crew Croxley together to complete the discovery trail, and see in if they can afloat. Families will be taken back to 1942, three years after

spot all of the hidden Easter chicks. Last admission 3.30pm.

HMS Belfast hit a magnetic mine. To earn their sea legs, they Stimulatemust your www.battleofbritainbunker.co.uk solvechild’s a seriesimagination of nautical puzzlesthrough around the ship to set creativeHMS movement expressing Belfast on the right course for herthemselves next voyage. dance and music! Street Dance Sat 4 – Sun 19 Apr - Family Mission: through 11am-3pm.

Academy are launching their latest club D-Day Edition (SE1) Families are invited to pick up a www.iwm.org.uk Kit Bag at HMS Belfast and learn more about the crew who in Malvern Way Primary School, Croxley starting on18 January 11th 2020. served on board during Operation Neptune in 1944. Teams Green Sun 5 - Sat Apr - Aliens, Zombies & will work together to find hidden messages, predict the Monsters (N12)will Aaronbe Blecha is an artist who designs Hour-long classes held every weather for sailing, discover ship life and crack Morse code. Saturday funny characters andduring illustratesschool humorous children’s books, morning term Created in partnership with KIT Theatre and Kirsty Harris, thistime.and has worked as a character designer in TV development interactive storytelling experience is based on personal Sign up for companies such as Disney and Curious Pictures, and as an before 31st December and receive stories from those who took part in the biggest invasion ina FREEanimator director on cartoon shorts and games for club Tand shirt! history. www.iwm.org.uk Cartoon Network and Leapfrog Toys. This exhibition at Classes are split into 3 age groups 5-8yrs, Artsdepot invites people of all ages to explore how children’s 9-11yrs and 12-16yrs .

Sat 4 – Sun 19 Apr – Gruffalo Advencharacters and books are created. We hope you enjoy tures (TW9) Over the Easter holidays Kew Gardens will Street Dance coaches all DBS checked, and and that you immersing are yourselves in this interactive world become home to author Julia Donaldsonclasses and illustrator Axel inwill are taught a fun and safe environment. feel inspired to create your own characters and stories.

Scheffler’s characters.

Families invited totoplay For a fullmuch-loved list of class times, feesare and/or apply www.artsdepot.co.uk online - www.streetdanceacademy. the role or of the ‘little brown0236 mouse’236 and follow a specially co.uk call 0800 Mon 6 Apr - The Big Hop 2020 curated trail to track down The Gruffalo. With map in hand (WD17) Go along to Watford Colosseum for Easter fun in the and face-painted whiskers, children will discover the animals’ huge auditorium filled with bouncy castles, ball pits, giant hiding spots, and interactive activities at each stop will balloons, music & lights, crafts and face painting. enable them to see the world from the perspective of each Recommended for toddlers to 6 years. character. Brave explorers might even get the chance to meet www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk the Gruffalo himself…

Ramblers groups across the UK will offer a warm www.kew.org welcome on hundreds of free festive walks. matter 6, 8, 10-13, 15, 17-19 Apr -No Story and whether or not walked Sat 4 - Sun 19 Apr - Easterwhere Duckyou live, Seekers (SE1) This Easteryou’ve holiday, families canbefore, learn they’llWetland offer the about chance to enjoy wonderful Quest (SW13) Get outdoors this Easter at London the global impactthe of conflict, from the winter First World War in good company; to torelax, andWar stressCentre and have fun finding giant yellow duckslandscape hidden and Second World War today unwind at the Imperial Museum bust, and to make new friends at a time of year when amongst their real life weird and wonderful duck cousins.

London. They can get hands-on with real artefacts and many feelsome anxious, stressed or and isolated.

Pick up a trail card at admissions and start your quest!people £1 Per can explore of the most interesting unusual stories of trail, includes a prize - pay at centre, no need Last to book. conflict, fromencouraged people who braved shark-infested waters to year, the Ramblers over 88,000 people www.wwt.org.uk nurses its andmany those who built new machinesSo for to start walking ingenious or discover health benefits. conflict. www.iwm.org.uk why not give yourself, or someone you love, the ‘uplift Sat 4 – Sun 19 Apr - Power UP This gift’(SW7) of joining in one of our Festival Of Winter Walks hands-on, fully interactive gaming event at the Science the UK?” Mon 6 - Thu 9 & Tue 14 - Fri 17 Apr across - An Easter Eggs-pedition (EC1R) Free, family Museum features the very best video games and consoles There will be fun winter-themed walks that the little ones fun at the Bank of England Museum. Follow the Easter trail to from the past five decades. From Pong to Pacman and will love; leisurely under five eggs miles foraround people findstrolls the brightly decorated placed the new museum.

Minecraft to Mario, there’s something for everyone, whether to walking; and longer walks for those that want more Make a note of the letter you find on each egg. Then of you’re a retro games fan, a serious gamer or just want to a challenge. Forunscramble those ofthem youtowho may be shortYou oncantime find a hidden message. also beat your family at Mario Kart. or want a gentler stroll, there will be Ramblers’ health enjoy Easter crafts - rabbit, sheep or chick masks and finger www.sciencemuseum.org.uk walks. puppets to colour in.

Sat 4 – Sun 19 Apr - Finding Where the Heart to get more info: FOWW 2019 web page link: www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum of Antarctica (SE10) This Easter go andramblers.org.uk/foww discover the Or search online for Festival Of Tue 7 Apr - A New Species (WC1N) Create a Antarctic at the National Maritime Museum! AsWinter part of Walks 2019 new animal by making a collage and have your work join the Antarctica In Sight, a UK wide programme to celebrate 200 installation at the Foundling Museum. Sessions run 11am–1pm years since the first recorded sighting of Antarctica, and & 2-4pm. Free for children and up to two accompanying co-commissioned with the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, the

Take a walk this winter

What's On adults. Book a session on the day. Suitable for age 5+. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Tue 7 – Thu 9 Apr - Sailor Craft (SE10) Learn traditional sailor skills and techniques to embroider your very own Cutty Sark souvenir. This family workshop will merge historical surroundings with contemporary maritime issues.

11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. www.rmg.co.uk

Gift idea for the little cooks in your life

Tue & 14 Apr of this World: Little7Cooks Co is- aOut monthly subscription Moon Mission a familythrough trip to the Moon based recipe kit (SE10) that’sTake posted with planetarium show, interactive quizinand immersive the aletterbox, direct to kids, a neat virtual activity at box the Royal Observatory Greenwich.

100%reality recyclable with compostable Start your orientation in the state of the art digital packaging. planetarium, continue your mission with a brain bending quiz box and finally take a virtual step onto the lunarThe surface with a virtual reality activity to feel what it’s like toisbepacked a moonwalker. with all theof This session includes rock handling for a tactile experience anda how the surface of the Moon looks and feelsnatural up close and healthy chance to discuss your findings with Astronomers.

Agesdry 7+. ingredients www.rmg.co.uk of that

month’s Tue 7 & 14 and Thu 9 & 16 Apr - We Were There: Meet Veteransdelicious and and nutritious recipe kids to bake Eyewitnesses (SE1) Thisfor Easter holiday, visitorsintothe the home.War KitsMuseum comeLondon complete of the Imperial will havewith a veryall special dry, organic ingredients measured opportunity to meet war veterans perfectly and eyewitnesses, including to make each recipe and also a War those who lived through the Second Worldinclude War, the Cold small activity craftWars, for children enjoy and the Korean andor Falkland to hear theirto personal whileofmaking yummy bake.

Eachwill stories conflict. Ontheir selected days in April, veterans recipetales is fun and easylife, to giving makevisitors and first-hand has recount of their wartime been designed byofawar registered insights into the impact on people’s nutritionist, lives. 11am-1pm. so is free from all refined sugar and www.iwm.org.uk processed ingredients.

Wed 8 Apr - Easter Egg Marbling Subscriptions start from £8.99/month (WC1N) Create your own Easter decoration with colourful www.littlecooksco.co.uk marbling-inks at the Foundling Museum. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm.

Book a session on the day. Suitable for age 5+. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Sat 11 Apr - Easter Funny Bunny Trail (HA5) Go along to Heath Robinson Museum at Pinner Memorial Park and find little Easter bunny babies, answer the quiz to get an Easter prize (not chocolate). The Easter Bunny’s children have all eaten way too much chocolate and have gone berserk all over the park. Help find all the silly bunnies and answer the quiz questions to receive a little Easter prize. No booking required; drop in any time between 11am and 2:30pm.

Suitable for ages 3-10. www.harrow.gov.uk MORE ONLINE continued on page 20 & familiesonline.co.uk

Paediatric First Aid Courses Advertise your business Suitable for Ofsted Registration. to over 60,000 local Includes some home study. readers each issue!

Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85

Sun 17 Nov, Sat 7 Dec, Sat 18 Jan - Harrow on the Hill

Contact Margaret at mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk Call us on 01923 237 004 or on 07814 395 for bookings to 191 discuss!

Other dates available

familiesonline.co.uk

4 Families North West London

Families North West London

21

familiesonline.co.uk

What's On is packed with activities for young books fans. Don’t forget to take a book to swap! 10.30am-4pm. www.artsdepot.co.uk

APRIL Sun 12 Apr - Easter Egg Decorating & The Great Egg Roll (N6) Go along to Lauderdale House on Easter Sunday from 11am to 1.10pm for their traditional Easter eggstravaganza - a fun and creative family event packed with egg decorating, a mini egg hunt and the great egg roll. www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk Tue 14 – Thu 16 Apr - Lights, Camera, Action! (SE10) Bring history to life by filming your own documentary at the Cutty Sark. Explore the stories and themes the ship has to offer, selecting the most interesting and exciting sections to feature in a short film. 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. www.rmg.co.uk

Sat 18 – Sun 26 Apr – Big Music Week (various) Following on from Record Store Day on 18 April this is a week long celebration of what Watford has to offer with music. The week will show off the musical events and performances that happen in Watford regularly as well as some special performances and masterclasses. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sat 25 Apr - Back to the Future (SE10) After the screening of this time travelling comedy classic at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, an astronomer will explore the science of time travel and alien life in a short science talk inspired by the film.

6.45-9.15pm. www.rmg.co.uk Sun 26 Apr - Michael Morpurgo: Lucky Button Day: Family Concert (WC1N) Go along to the Foundling Museum for Lucky Button day and go to the themed creative workshops between 11:30am-12:30pm & 1.30-2.30pm. Then at 3pm hear author Michael Morpurgo narrate parts of his novel Lucky Button, with musical interludes.

Wed 15-Sun 19 Apr - Easter Petting Farm (HP18) Get up close and personal with lots of new furry, hairy or feathered friends this Easter at Waddesdon.

They have partnered up with Farms2Ewe, a mobile farm who will be transporting a small animal petting farm to Waddesdon. 10am-4pm. www.waddesdon.org.uk

www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk

Thu 16 – Fri 17 Apr - Holiday to Space (SE10) Travel across the Solar System at the Royal Observatory Greenwich and help Space Ted plan for a holiday on another planet. Enjoy a special 20-minute Space Safari planetarium show filled with spectacular views of the planets up close and a chance to sing along to help Ted find the great big bear followed by a 30 minute workshop to find out a little more about Ted’s adventure to the planets. 10-11.30am, ages 4-7 years. www.rmg.co.uk

MAY

Fri 1 – Sat 2 May – Dancing in the Streets (UB8) An exhibition at Uxbridge Library showcasing VE Day celebrations across the Borough. www.discover.hillingdon.gov.uk

Sat 18 Apr - Book Buzz (N12) Calling all bookworms!

Whether you enjoy the smell of shiny new hardbacks or the sight of much-loved, dog-eared, stained and scribbled-on paperbacks, go along to Artsdepot for a day celebrating reading and books. Book Buzz

Sat 2 – Sun 3 May – Dogfest (SG3) The ultimate day out for dogs will be heading to Hertfordshire in 2020, as DogFest returns to Knebworth House. DogFest offers an amazing full day out, packed with dog friendly attractions, entertainment and activities with plenty of opportunities for your dog to get involved. www.dog-fest.co.uk Fri 8 – Sat 9 May - VE Day Party (NW9) Go along to the RAF Museum to celebrate VE Day 75 with a street party and a nostalgic weekend for the whole family. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Mon 11 May – Effective Parenting: Anger Management (HA1) A workshop for parents of children aged 3-11 years, held at Hope Harrow from 6.30-8.30pm. This 2 hour workshop looks at improving your understanding of anger, and sharing tips and strategies on how to manage difficult and destructive behaviours, helping to create a happy, cohesive home environment. www.hopeharrow.org.uk info@hopeharrow.org.uk 020 8863 7319

JUNE Wed 3 Jun – Parenting with Positive Discipline (HA1) A workshop which will focus on parenting children with respect, making sure it’s consistent and firm but fair, and ensuring long lasting positive relationships are created. Takes place at Hope Harrow from 7-9pm. www.hopeharrow.org.uk info@hopeharrow.org.uk 020 8863 7319

Confidence Building,

Cooking & Nutrition Programmes

Come, join our engaging Saturday cooking and nutrition sessions held in the heart of Wembley Park at The Yellow! HA9 0GL

for ages 7+ First session: 11:00-12:00pm* Second session: 12:30- 1:30pm* HEY, THERE`S MORE...

Dick and Dom ---------------------------------------------Brainiac Live ---------------------------------------------Mr Tumble ---------------------------------------------Mister Maker & Rebecca Keatley ---------------------------------------------Sam & Mark ---------------------------------------------BRIT SCHOOL & STAGECOACH ---------------------------------------------ART, SCIENCE, DANCE, & CIRCUS WORKSHOPS

During term time:

Fatboy Slim GROOVE ARMADA --------------------------------------------------------------------LIAM PAYNE --------------------------------------------------------------------Friendly Fires

Wednesdays 3:30pm - 4:30pm Fridays 3:30pm - 5:00pm

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(Special Guests) ---------------------------------------------------------------------

Sophie Ellis-Bextor Ft. Sink The Pink ---------------------------------------------------------------------

BECKY HILL

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SON ET LUMIÈRE FIREWORKS FINALE ---------------------------------------------Cirque Bijou’s High Wire Spectacular ---------------------------------------------DAZZLE & FIZZ STUDIOS ---------------------------------------------FULL MOON CINEMA ---------------------------------------------DJ YODA PRES. FILMSTOCK ---------------------------------------------SOLAR POWERED CINEMA

LEVEL 42 MAX & HARVEY

Contact Lauri 07957-155-421 contact@thebitemecorner.com

www.thebitemecorner.com *Advance booking required

---------------------------------------------------------------------

The Selecter SARA COX ---------------------------------------------------------------------

Jo Whiley’s 90s Anthems

--------------------------------------------------------------------THE Sugarhill Gang - Furious 5 ft Grandmaster Melle Mel & Scorpio --------------------------------------------------------------------Heather Small The Sherlocks THE BIG BUILD, --------------------------------------------------------------------Adam Kay WATER SLIDES & ZIPLINES DAVID RODIGAN Reef SPACE ---------------------------------------------WITH WOODLAND TRIBE --------------------------------------------------------------------Irvine Welsh ---------------------------------------------Biig Piig SelF Esteem Georgia ---------------------------------------------SPINNEY HOLLOW --------------------------------------------------------------------Steve Davis Norman Jay MBE S CLUB PARTY CRAFT VILLAGE & Kavus Torabi --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Cuban Brothers Hortisculpture Scummy Mummies --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Jaguar Skills Dub Pistols MOSSY CROW Man Vs. Baby TheDadLab -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Wurzels Tim Burgess (DJ) BUSHCRAFT, BIVOUAC -----------------------------------------------------------& FIRE BUILDING LTJ Bukem Gengahr ---------------------------------------------INTERACTIVE & MANY THEATRE MORE! ------------------------------------Yoga, Breathwork, CALM SPACES THE FEAST COLLECTIVE Meditation, WITH LIVE FIRE DEMOS Sound Healing, ---------------------------------------------Richie Bostock, NEIL RANKIN Ayurvedic workshops, ---------------------------------------------Sleep Retreat, ALL HAIL KALE Will Williams ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DJ BBQ FIZZ BAR FIT CAMP: WILD RUNS, ---------------------------------------------HIIT & FAMILY BOXING MOTHER EARTH’S ---------------------------------------------OPEN KITCHEN HOLISTIC TRIATHLON

FULL LINE-UP & TICKETS

CAMPBESTIVAL.NET 22

Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

What's On

What’s On Children’s Theatre The Alban Arena Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk Tue 14 – Thu 16 Apr - The Tiger Who Came To Tea Direct from the West End, the Olivier Award nominated smash hit show, The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns on tour, celebrating over 10 years on stage! Join the teaguzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem… expect to be surprised!

Ages 3+

Fri 17 Apr - Rapunzel Scott Ritchie Productions and KD Theatre Productions are joining forces once again to collaborate on a brand NEW staging of the popular fairy tale ‘RAPUNZEL’. Featuring an original book, music and lyrics, high energy choreography, loveable characters, colourful set and costumes and an opportunity for the audience to meet the characters after the show, this production promises to be an entertaining treat for all the family!

Artsdepot 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk Tue 7 - Thu 9 Apr - Ockham’s Razor: This Time A show about time, age and the stories we tell ourselves from the award winning circus theatre company Ockham’s Razor. With a cast aged between 13 and 60, This Time combines circus, autobiographical storytelling and original equipment to create compelling visual theatre.

Ages 8+

Wed 8 - Thu 9 Apr - The Elves and The Shoemaker This hilarious re-telling of the much-loved classic tale from the inescapably inventive Stuff and Nonsense is a total delight for all the family, full of wit, charm and surprising puppetry.

Ages 3+

Tue 14 - Sun 19 Apr - Room on the Broom Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ fun-filled adaptation of Room on the Broom, the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. The witch and her cat are travelling on their broomstick when they pick up some hitch-hikers – a friendly dog, a beautiful green bird and a frantic frog.

But this broomstick’s not meant for five and – CRACK – it snaps in two... just as the hungry dragon appears! Will there ever be room on the broom for everyone? Find out in the magical Olivier Award nominated show for everyone aged 3 and up.

Thu 16 Apr - Baby Gospel Baby Gospel is an uplifting family concert of soul, Motown and gospel music, featuring the astonishing vocal talents of London’s CK Gospel Choir. The whole family can enjoy singing and clapping along to hits by Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley, Adele, Jackie Wilson, Pharrell and more - as well as some traditional Gospel songs and nursery rhymes!

Ages 0-10 yrs

The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes.

020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Tue 7 Apr - Sooty & Sweep Direct from their hit ITV series, Sooty, Sweep and Soo and TV’s Richard Cadell will amaze you with impossible tricks and side-splitting jokes! Be astounded at Sooty’s flying car, Soo’s singing unicorn and Sweep’s levitating sausage. With special guests circus star Michael Jordan and the ultraviolet specialties of Fantasie de la Nuit. A spectacular treat for the whole family – including a chance to meet Richard and Sooty after the show.

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Sun 26 Apr - The Wizard of Oz Join Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the cowardly Lion as they journey on a panto-filled adventure through Oz to meet the legendary Wizard and defeat the Wicked Witch of the West. Anton Benson Productions return with another all-singing, all-dancing rib tickling show starring Easter panto favourites Ryan “Wally” Greaves, dame Phylip “Dolly” Harries and star casting to be announced.

Chickenshed Chase Side Southgate N14.

020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk Tue 14 – Fri 17 Apr - Planet Play at Easter Especially recommended for very young children, join the Tales team for a fun and interactive sensory session based on the stories and fables from the older children’s show, Tales from the Round Table. This will be a brilliant and immersive opportunity for children to really get involved in true Tales from the Shed fashion!

Ages 0-3yrs

Tue 14 – Sun 19 Apr - Tales from the Round Table Meet Guinevere, Merlin, King Arthur, Sir Lancelot, Morgan Le Fay, the Lady in the Lake and the legendary sword Excalibur – as you’ve never seen them before! Each tale has been created by a different writer or artist, and these will combine to deliver a fantastically fun and unforgettable take on some of the best known stories from history and fable. Using a wide range of storytelling techniques, with music, puppetry and movement, this will be a magical treat for children and adults to enjoy together!

Ages 3-7 yrs

Compass Theatre Glebe Avenue, Ickenham UB10 01895 673 0200 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Wed 15 – Sun 19 Apr - Alices Adventures In Wonderland The company that brings pantomime to Compass Theatre each year, returns for the Easter 2020 school holidays with a week of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Join Alice and drop down the rabbit hole to a magical place in Wonderland. Keep your head firmly on your shoulders and stay on the good side of the Queen of Hearts, plus attend a tea party that would make anyone go mad. Get ready for one of the world’s great adventures!

Harrow Arts Centre Hatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com Thu 19 Mar - Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Bring Your Own Baby Comedy is the UK’s top baby friendly comedy club! All shows feature the funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV and you can bring your baby!

Soft flooring, toys, buggy parking and baby changing are provided, so that your baby is happy and you can relax, have a coffee (or a cheeky G & T if you prefer!) and be entertained!

Tue 7 Apr - The Captain Calamity Adventures on Dragon Island In this brand new family adventure show aimed at kids of all ages, Guinness World Record Breaking Captain Calamity and TV’s Animal Expert, Mark Amey team up to rescue Dragon Island from extinction. This incredible 55 minute show aims to educate children on the real steps we can all make to preserve our wonderful planet and the creatures within.

Ages 3+

Thu 16 Apr - Mr Men and Little Miss on Stage Join your favourite Mr. Men and Little Miss characters as they leap off the page and onto the stage in this beautifully crafted and hilarious live stage show! For almost 50 years, Mr. Men and Little Misses have brought

familiesonline.co.uk

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

joy to millions of children all over the world through selfexpression, colour, simplicity and humour. Featuring Mr. Bump, Little Miss Splendid, Mr. Tickle, Little Miss Inventor and many more, Happyland bursts to life in a series of colourful and timeless stories told through puppetry and music.

Ages 2+

Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com Mon 6 – Tue 7 Apr - Bonhomme Based in a community garden, this new immersive and participatory show seamlessly blends storytelling, object theatre, live music and philosophy for children. What makes a good human? This is the philosophical question we examine in Bonhomme, using the Golem myth for loose inspiration.

Ages 4-8 yrs

Wed 8 – Thu 9 Apr - Midnight In the hours when most people are tucked up, sound asleep in their beds, Midnight the cat rules the roost. In the still, quiet moments between one day finishing and the next one beginning, she has the ability to see and to understand all the dreams of the people sleeping in their beds below. But when a wild wind blows through the town, strange things begin to happen. Midnight is a dream-like show about time, the night and dreaming. And about clever cats and really silly dogs.

Ages 5-11 yrs

Fri 24 Apr – Sun 21 Jun Pinocchio Step inside Geppetto’s workshop and hear the tale of a puppet that wants to be a real boy, and a puppet maker who wants to be a real father. Watch as Pinocchio is carved on stage, paint brushes come to life as foxes and the shadow of two saws transform into a giant fish. An element of improvisation adds to the magic, as no two performances are exactly the same. Puppetry, shadows, illusion and original music combine to create a show that is inventive, witty and has a big heart.

Ages 5-11 yrs

Tue 7 Apr - Amazing Bubble Man Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences worldwide for over 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. Louis explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized. From square bubbles to rocket bubbles, tornado bubbles to flying saucer bubbles, the Amazing Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages.

Wed 22 – Thu 23 Apr - Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever Peppa Pig is excited to be going on a special day out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig - it’s going to be her best day ever! Get ready for a road-trip full of fun adventures. From castles to caves, dragons to dinosaurs and ice-creams to muddy puddles – there is something for all of the family and their friends to enjoy, including Miss Rabbit, Mr Bull, Suzy Sheep, Gerald Giraffe and more!

Ages 2-6 yrs

Watford Palace Theatre Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Tue 14 – Wed 15 Apr - Sarah & Duck The enchanting world of Sarah and Duck is brought to life in a brand-new stage show, featuring the wonderful characters from the BAFTA award-winning CBeebies show.

Join Sarah and Duck and a host of your favourite friends as they plan a birthday party for Scarf Lady in their garden.

Told through a fantastic blend of puppetry, storytelling and music, Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday will take you and your children on a magical adventure.

Watford Colosseum Rickmansworth Road Watford WD17 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Photo Credit Helen Maybanks

We couldn’t fit them all in! More online www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk

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ONLINE

The London Coliseum St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 020 7845 9300 www.eno.org Tue 7 – Thu 9 Apr - Peace at Last A new opera for children aged 3-5 years old based on the picture book by Jill Murphy. Performed in a new composition by Joanna Lee for three singers, accompanied by harp and woodwind, Olivier Award-winning OperaUpClose presents their new opera for children, based on Jill Murphy’s much-loved picture book, which has been delighting families for generations. The show is performed in English, includes live music and puppetry and is suitable for children aged 3-5, families and any adult with a sense of fun and wonder.

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 (During the summer the Barge is at Richmond, TW10) 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Until 5th Jul - Brer Rabbit Visits Africa Brer Rabbit travels to Africa to visit his grandmother and gets himself into a whole lot of trouble – for age 3 +.

Sat 4 – Sun 19 Apr - Hanging by a Thread Hanging by a Thread is an exciting marionette show by visiting multi-award winning Italian puppet company Di Filippo Marionette for ages 3+.

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

Sat 14 - Sun 15 Mar - Zog Freckle Productions and Rose Original Productions present Zog By Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Large in size, and keen in nature, Zog is so eager to win a golden star at Madam Dragon’s school, where dragons learn all the things that dragons need to know. With brand new songs from Joe Stilgoe (The Jungle Book, The Midnight Gang) and directed by Emma Kilbey, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog is a magical production for all ages.

Winston Churchill Theatre Pinn Way Ruislip HA4 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Sun 8 Mar - Hillingdon Philharmonic Orchestra presents Animal Magic: A Family Concert Hillingdon Philharmonic Orchestra invites you to a special animal-themed family concert. Discover the magic of seeing and hearing a full orchestra live in concert. A fun concert for all the family to enjoy.

Wed 22 - Sat 25 Apr – Oklahoma!

Join WOS Productions as they bring this award-winning and high-energy musical to Ruislip, enjoyable for all the family. The first collaboration between Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, Oklahoma! set the American musical standard and features well-known songs such as Oh What a Beautiful Mornin’, I Cain’t Say No and People Will Say We’re in Love.

Families North West London

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‘Personal development, behaviour and welfare: Outstanding’ ‘Sixth form provision: Outstanding’ (Extract of Ofsted report, March 2019)

27

languages

900

students

95%

teachers

with MA or PhD

100% SUCCESS IN ALL EXAMS ADMISSION TO PRESTIGIOUS UNIVERSITIES

THE WORLD IN TWO LANGUAGES FROM AGE 3 TO 18 Visit our website or book a private visit:

www.lyceeinternational.london Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill 54 forty Lane, London, HA9 9LY

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admissions@lyceeinternational.london +44 (0)203 824 4906

29/01/2020 09:01