Families NW London Magazine Issue 121 May/June18

IN THIS ISSUE

Summer Camps and Activities 2018 plus Parenting; Education and Local Family News!

Issue 121 May/June 2018

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Welcome to the May/June issue!

CONTACT US:

www.facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon

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

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

@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 ISSUE: July/August 2018 - ‘What to do with the Kids this summer!’

Deadline: 1 June 2018 Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.

Where is Families North West London?

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

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

NEWS Barnet children given chance to win Free Bikes ahead of Bike to School Week The Broadwalk Centre in Edgware is launching a special competition to encourage youngsters to bike to school by winning a brand new bike.

Running throughout May, the community shopping centre is giving away four brand new bikes - two for primary school pupils and two for older students in secondary education.

To enter the competition, shoppers need to pick up one of The Broadwalk’s ‘Bike to School’ loyalty cards and spend £40 at any of the shopping centre’s stores between Saturday 5th and Sunday 27th May 2018. For every £10 spent, shoppers will receive a stamp on their card and, once completed, can pop it in the competition post box on the mall to enter the prize draw.

For more information on The Broadwalk Centre and all their ‘Love Your World’ events please visit www.thebroadwalkcentre.co.uk

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IN THIS ISSUE: 5 Family Food 6 Education 8 Open Days 10 Camps and Activities 14 Parenting 14 Parenting 16 Parties, Clubs and Classes 18 Children’s Theatre 20 Whats’s on

Cover image: depositphotos.com

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

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

Ark Elvin Academy announces new children’s gymnastics classes Ark Elvin Academy and the London Academy of Gymnastics and Dance (LAGAD) are delighted to announce the launch of a new service for the children in the community.

Commencing in April 2018, LAGAD will be offering high quality gymnastics classes for children aged 3½ - 11 years old at this popular school in Wembley.

The Academy recently reopened after a rebuild and has a brand new Sports Hall with the latest gymnastics equipment. “We are delighted to have attracted an organisation of the London Academy of Gymnastics and Dance’s calibre and track record to the Ark Elvin Academy.

It’s a fantastic opportunity for local children to participate in gymnastics, in a safe environment and with genuinely professional teachers.” Joe Robinson, School Leisure and Sports Manager, Schools Lettings Solutions for the Ark Elvin Academy Jessica Shenton, Founder & Director, LAGAD said; “Dance and gymnastics are not only fun but really good for children’s general health and overall fitness. We are so excited to be offering our classes in such a wonderful venue.” In order to ensure the high standards are maintained, classes will initially be available on Sundays from 10am to 1pm, with further classes being added later in the year.

To reserve places and/or book a Trial Class, parents should visit the LAGAD website: www.lagad.co.uk or contact us info@lagad.co.uk 0208 883 4675

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NEWS Calling All Adventurers!

The smash-hit production We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is returning to the West End this Summer!

To celebrate, we’re giving away one family ticket (admits 4).

There are a number of bear paw prints hidden throughout this magazine.

To WIN, find them all and email your answer together with your name (subject heading BEAR HUNT FAMILIES NW LONDON COMPETITION) to info@kennywax.com before midnight 30 June 2018).

Join our intrepid family of adventurers for this fun-filled adaptation of Michael Rosen’s We’re Going on a Bear Hunt at the Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue from 4 July. Live music, original songs and lots of audience interaction make this the perfect summer treat!

T&Cs – Prize is for one family ticket (admits 4, min 1 adult) to see We’re Going on a Bear Hunt at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue from 4 July – 2 September 2018. The winner will be selected by random prize draw of entries with the correct answer. Tickets are subject to availability, hold no cash value, and are non-transferable. Answers will not be accepted after the closing date of midnight 30 June 2018 and all decisions will be final.

Are you a LAT parent?

New grammar school reminder service launched A new service has been launched to remind parents about important educational dates. RemindMum.com will send text messages reminding you about open days, deadlines for submission of registration forms, exam dates, mock tests and more. The service has been launched initially with reminders specifically for grammar school entry, with plans to include reminders for educational events in schools, colleges and universities in the pipeline.

Sandra Nicol founder of RemindMum.com says “with so many dates to remember, some parents miss out on school places because they simply forgot or were not aware of the relevant dates.” Deadlines for the submission of application forms, supplementary forms, appeals, open days and the list goes on.

You have probably heard of Blended Families but have you heard of Living Apart Together (LAT)?

This is a term used to describe an emerging form of family structure, where couples, with and without children, are in an intimate relationship but do not live together for some or all of the time. Around 10% of adults in Britain, a quarter of all those not married or cohabiting, are in a steady relationship but do not live with their partner. Research suggests that there are many reasons why partners may be LAT. Researchers found that around a third of LATs live apart because they feel they are not yet ready to live together, although many hope to do so in the future. A further third choose to live apart because they view it as emotionally safer, or a better way to manage other commitments, such as those to children, family and friends or work. Some may see it as a ‘last chance saloon’ to preserve a faltering relationship. The remaining third are not able to live together due to circumstances outside the relationship itself – including financial reasons or working or studying in different places. As part of its research into the changing dynamic of British family structures, The Birbeck London University is currently inviting parents who may be living apart together to take part in an online survey, Family Life You. To find out more, visit www.familylifeyou.co.uk or email smanna01@mail.bbk.ac.uk

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For a small fee RemimdMum.com will send you text messages reminding you of important dates if intending to get your child into a grammar school. Simply choose the school area, make the payment and wait for RemindMum text reminders. Easy and effective! www.remindmum.com www.reminddad.com

Volunteers teaching children CPR skills in schools The ability to perform CPR is an important skill that can improve survival rates and outcomes for the casualties involved. Little Life savers is a charity founded in 2016 that aims to teach children aged 9 and above these skills with the hope that young children will feel empowered to act to help those in need without an adult.

The Northwest London group of this charity was formed at the beginning of this year. Currently 19 medical professionals are volunteering their time to providing free teaching on basic life support skills.The teaching content involves learning how to help a choking child, adult ‘hands only’ CPR, child ‘hands only’ CPR and how to put a casualty in the recovery position.

To book sessions schools are advised to follow the link on the website, www.littlelifesavers.org.

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NEWS Fabulous 15 Little Kickers launch a brand new class in Harefield Little Kickers, the home of pre-school football, are launching a brand new class in Harefield on Sunday mornings. Franchise owner Jodie Sloan commented; “Due to the overwhelming popularity of our classes, we’ve further expanded into Harefield which will enable even more boys and girls to fall in love with what we do.”

Focussing on fun, boys and girls aged 18 months – 7 year olds learn the fundamentals of football combined with early learning goals such as colour recognition, body parts and numbers.

Jodie continues; “There has already been great interest in our Harefield classes and we take that as a massive compliment, the real reward however comes when we see the progress of each and every child. We absolutely love what we do, but we love that the children love it more!”

To book a class contact jodiesloan@LittleKickers.co.uk or visit their website www.littlekickers.co.uk”

Yes 15! That is how many medals were won by Isabella Yeabsley at the recent Hertfordshire Amateur Swimming Association (ASA).

An outstanding achievement and the result of a lot of very hard work.

The 15 medals included 3 Gold, 3 Silver and 9 Bronze and with her tally being the highest of the competition she was also awarded the Plate for her age group.

Isabella, a pupil at Aldenham Prep School in Elstree, trains 6 times a week. Her schedule includes some very early morning wake up calls and a lot of support from her sporty family.

Mrs Gocher, Headmistress at Aldenham Prep said “We are all very proud of Isabella; she is a credit to herself, family and school. She works very hard and her amazing achievements speak for themselves. We wish her every success in her sporting endeavours” As for Isabella’s futures plans she said “The 2024 Olympics in Paris would be a dream come true. I will just keep trying my best” With such commitment goals are achieved and this young lady is certainly one to watch out for.

Lanchester Community Free School celebrates opening of new learning facilities Children at Lanchester Community Free School in Watford are celebrating the opening of their new outdoor learning zone, Science laboratory and refurbished school library.

The newly created outdoor learning zone will enable reception students to engage in child-initiated learning, both inside and outside of the classroom. The space enables children to develop their curiosity, creativity and to explore different types of environments and textures.

John Dibdin, the newly appointed Principal, comments: “I am delighted to be joining Lanchester at this exciting time. These new facilities are already popular with the pupils at Lanchester and will definitely enhance the learning experience of the children both immediately as well as in the long term as the school grows.”

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Education

What’s NEW in Family Food Recipe boxes for kids – the Little Cook Box Children’s meal kits specially designed for kids aged 5 to 11 years old to cook themselves (under adult supervision). Delivered weekly, each meal kits can be cooked in 20 to 30 minutes. Ingredients come pre-chopped, peeled and washed in one simple tray, so there’s no time wasted thinking up a recipe, going to the supermarket and preparing the ingredients.

The kits have just the right quantities of ingredients for one evening meal for one child and the packaging has been designed to be easily recycled…if it’s not used as a play kitchen, for den building or the millions of other things kids love turning boxes into.

Their chefs have developed recipes that are deliciously inspiring with a variety of colours, textures and flavours. Along with twists on traditional favourites like burgers and fishcakes, they’ve created ‘world taste’ dishes to broaden their palettes with meals like empanadas and calzone. Choices include diary free, egg free, gluten free, fish free and meat free options.

From 4.70 per meal www.littlecookbox.com

Not just another ready meal…

Stunning and sumptuous ‘ready-to-cook’ food to your door from More, More, More Hosting a dinner party? Need to impress someone special? Or just want to treat yourself without the time and fuss of shopping lists and preparation?

The More More More online food delivery service is for you.

You can select from a menu of over 70 starters, main courses and desserts, including comforting home-cooking classics such as beef bourguignon, chilli con carne or bread and butter pudding as well as a range of exciting dishes including Indonesian coconut chicken, miso cod or pomegranate marinaded lamb loin as well as an extensive range of side dishes, cakes and pastries, and beautifully balanced cocktails.

You select your delivery date and then their specialist food couriers, will deliver your freshly prepared ready-to-cook dishes using high-quality sealed and chilled packaging to you anywhere within the UK mainland. Once your delivery arrives, all you need to do is follow the simple preparation instructions for a brilliant home-dining experience. www.more-more-more.co.uk

Fun and yum new first food from Piccolo Introducing Piccolo for parents whose little ones are teething or who just need a snack in between mealtimes. They’re full of ancient grains that release energy slowly, so babies and toddlers will stay fuller for longer – and parents can relax knowing they’ve given their little ones something healthy and nutritious, with no added sugar, salt or anything nasty. www.piccolofoods.uk

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Education

STEM: Helping Children with the Fundamentals of Education

By Christopher Cederskog

I

t’s not easy being a parent. You want to do the best for your children, but sometimes it’s hard to work out what the best actually is. Education is one of those areas where advice is constantly changing.

If you are interested in helping your kids with the fundamentals of education there is an acronym which you should become aware of: STEM. It stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and it is fast becoming the core of the British and global education system. There is hardly a career which does not involve some element of STEM, from farming to neurosurgery, and it also plays a part in a many everyday activities. This is why it’s important our children can understand its key tenets.

As a parent, then, what can you do to help form the STEM of your child’s tree of knowledge?

I have always believed that learning should be fun and the popular perception is that the subjects of STEM are anything but. However, science, engineering and technology are particularly well-suited to play and mathematics can be applied to virtually any day-to-day situation. It’s just a matter of identifying the right opportunities.

The next time you’re baking pastry together, let your child measure out the ingredients and ask them questions: what does ‘half fat to flour’ mean? Let them work out, according to that rule, how much flour is needed if you’re using 100 grams of fat. Get them to count out how many pastry cases were made from that ratio, then work out how much more pastry it would take to double the number of cases, or how many

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pies each family member will get based on the current number. Talk about the ingredients, what they are and where they’ve come from.

The next time your child falls, take the chance to talk to them about gravity and discuss why they fell downwards rather than upwards! If they’ve grazed their knees, once the tears have stopped, chat a bit about biology – why is blood red, why do scabs form, how do cuts heal? If you don’t know the answers yourself, call on Doctor Google – he’s always there to help.

When you’re out with your children, encourage scientific observations: when walking to the park, talk about why the leaves are green or why they fall in autumn.

See if your children can spot any mini-beasts and set them the challenge of learning about them when they get home. And when at home, help bring out your child’s inner-engineer by encouraging them to put those endless MegaBlocks and LEGO bricks to work.

Every activity can be a learning opportunity without a child needing to identify it as such.

Your job as a parent is to try to find ways to make the learning opportunity fun.

While I’m not saying that all education should be done by stealth, I am an advocate of learning through play. The lessons I most strongly remember from my childhood are those that were learned while I was having fun: the Van de Graaff generator sparking as much imagination as electricity; the recreation of the witches’ scene in Macbeth making Shakespeare seem relevant and interesting; the days in the garden, learning

where food actually comes from and that there is a point to worms.

Children were born to learn and their brains are busy absorbing information from the second they leave the womb. If you can make your lessons fun, informal and an integral part of everyday life, then your little ones will learn by osmosis and you can sit back in the happy glow of a good job, well done.

Christopher Cederskog is MD of Wonder Workshop which teaches children coding through robotics and enables them to master critical thinking, problem solving, cause and effect, communication, and collaboration.

For more information, visit www.makewonder.com

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Education

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Education Independent School Open Days Please check school websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days. Listings are subject to change.

Aldenham School Elstree WD6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs (Boarding/Day) enquiries@aldenham.com

Open Day: Sat 16 Jun, 10am-12.30pm. Prep School 01923 851664.

Senior School 01923 858122

Alpha Preparatory School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs. www.alpha.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: By appointment 0208 427 1471

Buxlow Preparatory and Nursery School Wembley HA9 7QJ Boys and Girls 0 - 11yrs (Day) www.buxlowschool.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 89043615

Buckingham Prep School Pinner HA5 Boys School 4-11 years www.buckprep.org

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 2737.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Elstree WD6 Boys 5-18 yrs. www.habsboys.org.uk

Open Day: Sat 6 Oct (Prep & Senior); Sat 3 Nov (Pre-Prep).. 020 8266 1700

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School Elstree WD6 Girls 4-18 yrs. www.habsgirls.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 22 Jun, 9.15am; Sat 6 Oct, 10am (Junior) 2pm (Senior) 020 8266 2302 email ldevine@habsgirls.org.uk

High Elms Manor School Watford WD25, Boys and Girls 6 months – 11 years. www.highelmsmanorschool.com

Open Day: Wed 2 May, 9.15am & 10.15am. 01923 681103

The John Lyon School Harrow on the Hill HA2. Boys 11-18 yrs. www.johnlyon.org

Open Day: Tue 15 May, 5-7pm. 020 8515 9400

Krishna Avanti Primary School Edgware HA8. Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs.www. avanti.org.uk/kapsharrow

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8381 3344

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: Fri 5 Oct, 9.45am-12noon. Sen Sch: Sat 12 May, 10am-12.30pm. 01923 825648 (Prep) 01923 845514 (Senior)

North London Collegiate School Edgware HA8 Girls 4-18yrs. www.nlcs.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 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: Thu 3 May, 9.30-11am (Sen Sch); Wed 9 May, 9.3011am (Early Yrs & Jun Sch); Sat 6 Oct, 1-4pm (whole school) 01923 825446.

Orley Farm Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 Boys and Girls 4-13yr www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: Sat 12 May, 10am. 020 8869 7634/7600

Call us to arrange an individual appointment

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Education Independent School Open Days Quainton Hall School Harrow, HA1. Boys 2.5-13yrs, Girls 2.5-11 yrs. www. quaintonhall.org.uk

Open Day: Sat 22 Sep, 10am. 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 3-7yrs. www.roxethmead.com

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092

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 7 Oct, 2pm; Mon 8 & Tue 9 Oct (morning). 01923 725354

Stanborough School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 4-18yrs. Boarding/Day. www.spsch.org

Open Day: By appointment 01923 673268

St Christopher’s School, Wembley HA9 8HE Boys & Girls 4 – 11 years (day) admin@stchristophersschool.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 11 May, 10am-12pm. 020 8902 5069

St John’s CofE Primary School Watford WD17 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www. stjohnswatford.co.uk

Open Day: Wed 3 Oct, 9am. 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 Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs. www.sthildasbushey.com

Open Day: Fri 25 May, 9.30am. 0208 950 1751

St John’s School Northwood HA6 Boys aged 3-13. www.st-johns.org.uk

Open Day: Wed 23 May, 9.15am. 020 8866 0067

St. Margaret’s School Bushey WD23 Girls 4-18 yrs (boarding/day) www.stmargaretsbushey.org.uk

Open Day: Thu 3 May, 9.15-11.15am. Sat 22 Sep, 9.15am 020 8901 0872

St. Martin’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 3-13 yrs www.stmartins.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 8 & Sat 9 Jun, 10am-12pm. 01923 825 740

St Nicholas Prep School and Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PN 3mths – 11 yrs. www.stnicholasschool.org.uk; www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk

Open Day: Thu 3 May, 10am-12pmt. 020 8205 7153

York House Rickmansworth WD3. Boys and Girls 3-13 yrs www.york-house.com

Open Day: Sat 12 May, 9.30am-12pm (Nursery-yr 8) 01923 772 395

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May Half-Term/Summer Camps and Activities

C AM P S

The Windmill Studio Centre

RESIDENTIAL CAMPS AIGAS - various dates. Wildlife Holidays & Courses in the Highlands. Offering fully inclusive, small-group learning holidays and study courses exploring the stunning wildlife, habitats and landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.01463 782 443 www.aigas.co.uk ATE Superweeks are 7 day residential holidays running Fri 27th July – Tues 28th August. There’ll be fun, games, laughter, secret missions, sneaking in the woods, adventures and expeditions, a day trip, games you’ve never heard of before, parties and feasts and evenings of fun, things to learn, and plenty of new friends. Ages 8-14 yrs. 01684 562 400 www.superweeks.co.uk Marlborough College 8th July- 4th August in Wiltshire SN8 1PA. Marlborough College Summer School continues to welcome young people (3-17yrs) to their action-packed week of activities and entertainment either as residents with their families, or as day students on their own or in a group. 01672 892388 www.mcsummerschool. org.uk Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity Centre Somerset. 8th July – 18th August. Family run and owned since 1982. Maximum 70 residential kids.

25 acres fields, woods, river; over 40 exciting, challenging activities. Trained, experienced, fun staff. Residential/day camps. Small groups/same age.. 8–15. Delicious meals. Rail escort from Paddington 01749 812307 www.millonthebrue. co.uk Xplore Activity Camps – Residential camps offering non-stop action from Saturday to Saturday every week during the school holidays. There are fun, social and challenging activities from morning until night, with day trip excursions to

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The holiday breaks are a great opportunity for children to take part in organised activities, play schemes, workshops or day camps either within their local area on a daily or weekly basis or,increasingly, attend an American-style residential summer Camp.

Here’s our guide to some of the options available. local towns, cities or attractions too! There is always a mix of nationalities on site, which is fantastic for integration, meeting new friends and experiencing new cultures.01449 742700 www. xploreactivitycamps.com XUK Activity Summer Camp – 8th July – 19th August. XUK is a multi-activity summer camp based at Abberley Hall School in Worcestor.

Activities include adventure (rock climbing/rifle shooting/quad bikes/high rope courses/water zorbing) sports, water sports, drama, dance, arts and crafts, cookery and much more! Children join them for anywhere between 1 and 6 weeks.

They welcome 6-17 year olds. +44 020 8922 9739 enquiry@xukcamps.com www.xukcamps.com

DAY CAMPS Aqua Vie – 5 days consecutive swimming lessons in Bushey. 01923 245773 www.aqua-vie.com Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club 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 Aspire Offer Ofsted-registered activity camps during the school breaks. Camps are great for 5 14 year olds and are run by experienced staff. 020 8420 6725, www.aspire.org.uk Barracudas Activity Day Camps operate during the Summer holidays at Watford Grammar School for Boys. Spending the holidays with them means children get to: develop new skills, make new friends, try new activities and most of all have fun!

With over 80+ activities including: motorsports, archery, fencing, clay model making, dance and

drama there is plenty of activities to keep children entertained. Summer Camps run from 16th July24th August. 0845 123 5299 info@barracudas. co.uk www.barracudas.co.uk Blag Youth Theatre - Fame meets School of Rock. 2 week summer school Chorleywood, Rickmansworth. 10.00am-6.00pm. 2 Performances at the Elgiva Theatre, Chesham. Price £285.00.

10% off when you mention Families. 23rd July 4th August 2018. It’s gonna be awesome! 01923 772320 www.blagtheatre.co.uk Summer Workshops at Blank Canvas Art Club Acrylic on Canvas Project.

23rd -26th July 9.30 – 2.30pm Ages 8-18. Over the 4 days you will identify, plan & paint your final piece. With warm up exercises, outside sketching sessions, learning about acrylics, mark making and more you will immerse yourself in your topic. Come with your own idea or choose from a variety of subjects provided. £140.

30th July Pets & Dinosaurs and Story Time Sketching. Ages 5-7yrs 2 x 2 hr sessions. £15 each.

1st Aug Imagination Day Hear a word then let your imagination go wild.

2nd Aug Stencilling - Banksy & beyond learn how to stencil then create your own masterpieces.

3rd Aug Same thing, 3 ways Let’s see how looking at something in different ways expands your options in the creative process. 1st-3rd Aug 9.30 – 2.30pm for ages 7-18yrs. £30 each.

All materials included. Discounts available.

For more information, please email Suzi at blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com.

07773 819 603 www.Facebook.com/ BlankCanvasArtClub

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May Half-Term/Summer Camps and Activities

DiscoG Coding Academy will be running a series of bootcamps for Mini Coders (6 - 8) and Young Coders (9 - 14) throughout the summer. These range from electronics to interactive storytelling to creating digital art and will introduce coding alongside a variety of additional skills. Intensive GCSE & A Level courses are also available.

There’s more to coding than just typing! We don’t just teach children to code, we teach them to think like a computer programmer.

You don’t have to be the best at maths or science, you just have to be willing to learn a new skill and be brave enough to make a few mistakes along the way!

Get in touch to kickstart your coding journey today! www.discogcodingacademy.com Location: 504 Kenton Lane, Harrow, HA3 8RD

The Elms School Holiday Multi-Sports Camps – Action packed daily sports camps running in Stanmore, Hatch End, Ruislip, Barnet, Amersham and many more areas! Football, hockey, tennis, netball and many more sports for ages 4-12 years.

020 8954 8787 www.elmsholidaycamps.co.uk Excel Academy Tuition Centres - run special revision sessions during the Summer to boost the exam preparation of students. During these booster sessions they run crash courses covering the entire syllabus and anything that the students have missed or need help with, including exam style questions and lots of practice on the harder topics. www.excelacademy.org.uk

Explore Learning – Our award-winning maths and English tuition has a proven track record of delivering academic and social progress, all year round. We’re confident you’ll love it so why not book your free trial today! explorelearning.co.uk Fit For Sport delivering OFSTED registered Activity Camps for children aged between 3 – 12 years old, for over 20 years. Camps are a great way for your child to keep active, have fun, make new friends and take part in a wide range of sports and activities. Activity camps are delivered every school holiday by Fit for Sport, the UK’s Leading Healthy Lifestyle Activities Provider! 0845 456 3233 or www.fitforsport.co.uk Gymboree Watford Offer Family Gym and Family Music Classes all year round for children from 6 months to 5 years. Why not book in for a class during the holidays and take the family along for some fun? Contact watford@gymboree-uk.com, 01923 250440, www.gymboree-uk.com/watford Harrow Arts Centre – Summer Music Camp from Thurs 26 Jul - Wed 1 Aug, 9:30am - 5:00 pm for ages 7-12 years. A special 5-day extravaganza of music, singing, craft, dance and FUN!! Learn how to sing, dance and play the steel pans, African drums and ukulele in one jam-packed week, culminating in a finale performance on Wednesday afternoon! All sessions are provided by Harrow Music Service instrumental teachers. Optional breakfast and board games club for early starters (8.30am start).020 3773 7161 www.harrowarts.com Harrow Woodcraft Folk Fun & freedom in the countryside, at their weekend camps all summer, for all the family. Camp craft such as putting up

The Windmill Studio Centre 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 Hertsmere’s Summer Fun Play Schemes School holiday fun with craft workshops, face painting, team games, bouncy castle, sports and games plus lots more! The Holiday Clubs are registered with and regularly inspected by OFSTED and are split into 2 age groups, 5 - 7 year olds, and 8 - 14 year olds. www.hertsmereleisure.co.uk Hillingdon Outdoor Activities Centre (HOAC) Sailing, Windsurfing, Kayaking and Land activities for 5-18 yr olds.01895 824 171 www.hoac.net Continued on page 12

www.activetime.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 11

May Half-Term/Summer Camps and Activities Continued from page 11 Holiday and term time one to one preparation for 4+ and 5+ entry for assessments in 2018 in the comfort of your home. Experienced Montessori teacher with excellent results in all the top schools. Please contact Karen on 07887-984401 or at wilkin@afrormosia.com.

Holidaytime Holiday Club – Holiday club open 7.30am-6pm for children aged 3-13 years. Indoor and outdoor space. swimming pool, sports, arts and crafts, cooking, trips, workshops, free time. Qualified and experienced staff. Full day, half day booking, Childcare vouchers except. 07794078452 holidays@ activetime.co.uk www.activetime.co.uk Hoof Camp - A day camp for children aged 5+ ofall abilities at Echo’s Equestrian Centre in Iver, Buckinghamshire. The May Half Term Hoof Camp will be from 29 May to 1 June and the Summer Hoof Camps are from 30 July to 3 August and 6 August to 10 August. 07895 706053 www. echoesequestrian.co.uk JK Educate 11+ Workshops - JK Educate Workshops in English and maths help children excel in 11+ exams. Summer dates: Sunday, 10th June, Sunday, 1st July, Tuesday, 28th August. At Stephens House and Gardens, London N3 3QE. www.jkeducate.co.uk 020 3488 0754 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 6 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 Leaders Are Readers – Their Summer School is attended by children from all over the world and early booking is advised. This year they are running from Monday 23rd July to Friday 10th August, 2018 (3 weeks) at Bentley Wood High School, Stanmore; and Monday 30th July to Friday 17th August, 2018 (3 weeks) at Haydon School in Pinner. The aim is to cover a year’s essential work in 3 weeks, fill in learning gaps and prepare children on advanced topics so they can zoom ahead when they return to school in September. 01992 651300 www.leadersarereaders.co.uk Little Big Leaders - Is your child struggling with their Reading, Maths or English and aged 3.5 to 11? That’s where we come in with affordably priced lessons, term time and Summer School with results. Call NOW 020 3637 6266 (24hrs) www.littlebigleaders.com Little Kickers Courses running throughout the summer. Football training for kids from 18 months to under 7 years. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, South Harrow & Watford jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk 0208 123 9346. Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk 0208 201 1084. Bushey & Harrow HA3 0208 422 0676 www.littlekickers.co.uk Monkey Music workshops are a popular way to keep children entertained during the holidays. Unlike the regular classes where children are strictly grouped according to age, the holiday workshops cater for a mixed age

12 Families North West London

The Windmill Studio Centre

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 Contact me for details on Summer Workshops 2018

Perform - Three and five day summer courses: The Greatest Show on Earth Ages: 7-12 Dance, sing and join the fun this summer. In Perform’s five day courses for 7-12 year olds, your child could rehearse and perform a specially written show combining uplifting songs, dazzling dancing and a heart-warming story.

Dates: 13 Aug - 17 Aug, 10am - 3pm, Bernays Memorial Hall, 25 The Broadway, Stanmore, London, HA7 4DA. 20 Aug - 24 Aug, 10am - 3pm, St Luke’s Parish Hall, Love Lane, Pinner, Middlesex, HA5 3EX. Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/summerfun Push and Glide – Run 5 day crash courses during the holidays at Northwood College. These are suitable for ages 3-4 years and 4 years+. 07749 554405 www.pushandglide.co.uk 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.

One-to-one intervention scientifically proven to improve your child’s grades.

Contact Usha Patel -Raviv Practice London- on 07766 837 616

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May Half-Term/Summer Camps and Activities Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts From 20th-25th August Sharpe Academy will be running a Musical Theatre Summer School at Watersmeet in Rickmansworth. www.sharpeacademy.co.uk

Stagecoach Summer Workshops Create a Show in a Week! Make friends, learn skills and build confidence Harrow www.stagecoach.co.uk/harrow 020 3504 0100 30th July - 3rd August Stanmore www.stagecoach.co.uk/stanmore 020 3504 2154 30th July - 3rd August Harrow on the Hill www.stagecoach.co.uk/harrowonthehill 01923 248 294 13th-17th August

Stitch Club Textile and Art Workshops in our dedicated Stitch Studio in central Pinner. Suitable for boys and girls aged 8+. All fabrics and materials supplied.

0750 300 1024 www.stitch.club

Type IT! Typing Crash Courses for children age 10+. Learn to touch type in just one week with our fun, interactive tutor-led typing courses. Courses running in Summer holidays. To book contact Type IT! on 020 8434 7111. www. typeitforkids.co.uk

The Windmill Studio Centre, based in Ruislip Manor.

Minions Madness Summer Holiday Fun Workshop 2018 for kids aged 4-9 runs 9.30am-12.30pm 30th July – 3rd August amid the safe and clean surroundings of The Windmill Studio Centre, Pembroke Road, Ruislip Manor, HA4 8NW. Professionally run by DBS checked staff, the Workshop features a host of fun activities themed around those crazy, yet adorable, yellow, pill-shaped animated characters from the hit Despicable Me and Minions movies – including creative arts, cold cooking, singing, dancing, acting and modelling with a special farewell fancy dress party and party lunch on the final day. Jimmy the JAMtots Bear will also be popping in and joining in the fun throughout the week. A morning snack and drink is included in the £80 price.

Contact T: 01895 624755, E: thewindmillstudio@gmail.com

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Families North West London 13

Parenting

The truth about why your kids don’t listen to you!

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e’ve all been there. Sometimes we have to ask 3 times before shoes are put on or washing is put in the basket. But the answer is not to give up based on the assumption that it is a battle you will never win. There is hope!

What if how your kids listen was within your sphere of influence? That would feel much better, right? Well then feel better, because there are some metaphysical home truths that I am going to share that will not only ensure that your kids are doing what you ask them to the first time, but it will leave you feeling less overwhelmed, more calm, and with a lot more expectation that your wishes will be honoured.

My daughter used to be the person who irritated me the most. Honestly, I just couldn’t understand why she didn’t appear to listen to me at all. Until I took an honest look at my own behaviour…and it wasn’t pretty.

I realised that there was a good chance that the reason she was behaving the way she was, was because she was following my lead. If she was distracted all the time, maybe I was too. If she didn’t listen, maybe that was because she perceived me not to be listening either. It was worth a shot!

I decided to experiment. I decided to take full responsibility for the responses I was getting, which meant that instead of focusing on changing her behaviour, I focused on changing mine.

Here are some tips that have worked for me as a parent, and have since worked for a number of my clients who have kids too:

• Listen and look When I looked long and hard at my own behaviour I realised I wasn’t listening. My response to Mama!” was often, “hang on a sec”, “in a minute darling” or “not now”. I signalled to my daughter that her needs

were not a priority. And I wasn’t setting a brilliant example.

Only a subtle change was required here to make a huge impact: an immediate pause in what I was doing, and eye contact – “yes darling, what do you need?” If it was quick, I could give it to her, and if it wasn’t, I’d ask if it was OK if I finished what I was doing first. At this point I realised how reasonable my child is.

• Teach concentration Once this works you can now start to minimise the number of requests. I do this by communicating in advance of the “Mama!” shout. I explain that I am about to do something that requires my full attention. I ask if she needs anything before I start, and then I ask her not to disturb me until I am finished. This is how this article got written.

The best part is that while I am doing this she embarks on her own task, creating something quietly and showing that time blocking works for her too!

• Do one thing at a time Talking of full attention, children rank themselves in order of importance according to whatever else takes your time.

If you just made time for something you needed to do and gave it your full attention they will, rightly, expect you to do the same for them. So put your phone out of reach when you are with them. The attention span of small children is only about 15 minutes anyway - we can all focus for 15 minutes.

What I realised by making these changes is that the battles I perceived in everyday tasks didn’t need to be battles at all. Expecting to have to ask for things to be done multiple times didn’t work, so I educated myself and my daughter on how to do things the first time, with our full attention. You might recognise this as a form of mindfulness.

Now, I look at my child as a mirror. If she is doing something I don’t like the look of, rather than go into telling mode, I ask myself what I could be doing differently to set a better example for both of us. It also means I take full responsibility when she shows up with grace, kindness, creativity, gratitude and generosity. Maybe it’s time for you to take the credit too – for all of it.

Susie Ramroop is a Mum to 6 year old Elise, and a Transformational Coach who helps busy Mums do less and have more impact. www.susieramroop.com

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Mummy on the Edge Angelina and Midi-Me enjoy the benefits of pre-GCSE Telerevision.

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e eat dinner in front of the telly and have done for a long time. It’s okay because we do still communicate and remember each other’s names (I sign my emails to her Mummalina so she can’t forget). At the moment Midi-Me is revising for her GCSEs so the televisual supper actually serves the highly efficient dual-purpose of reward and essential evening meal. I’m not nagging her (much) and, thanks to the viewing of some strategically recorded tv shows these past few weeks, Midi-Me and I realise that all the nagging I have done over the past 16 years (I’m counting baby-signing as nagging) was beneficial.

Because I thought it would take the pressure off and make us (me) feel that things could be much worse, our viewing during the week is currently centred on documentaries about variously delinquent teenagers. Nothing like a bit of schadenfreude to cheer you up! We started with Not So Sweet Sixteen on Channel 5 which showed some horrendously nightmarish brats demanding thousands of pounds from their overworked parents to spend on sixteenth birthday parties and Snapchat-follower-harvesting. I wondered, hadn’t these parents heard of ice skating coupons on Groupon? We continued with Indian Summer School on Ch4 where they sent 5 boys who had failed English and Maths and Science GCSE to a strict boarding school in India for six months to see if they could manage to learn enough to pass these subjects at retake. Only two lasted the distance with the others giving up due to lack of respect, motivation… and alcohol. Sadly, none of the candidates on the show did much better in their retakes and the headmaster admitted it was a much less achievable goal than he thought.

And then on the BBC I found Living with the Brainy Bunch, a sort of oldschool wife-swap idea where they took an under-performing boy and girl from a school in Greater London and installed each within the family of a high-performing kid at the same school to see if living with bossy parents makes a difference. Short answer? Yes, it does thank you very much and I rest my case.

I did feel very sorry for these children. None have had it easy growing up.

Some have no quality time with their parents, they just sit in front of a screen together – Oh!... Well, what I mean is, you never know what has

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occurred at home to make them feel so hopeless or to affect their self-confidence so deeply and several came from broken homes.

I expressed this to Midi-Me and she asked, “Do I come from a broken home, then?”

“Erm, yes.” I replied. “So basically if you do well, I deserve some of the credit for being a tiger mother for half the time. And a sloth mother for the rest.” (She knows I’m only joking, I deserve all the credit, of course!)

We are also watching “The Good Place” on Netflix which is a comedy, not about teenagers but the afterlife. It’s funny in a philosophical way, plus one character wears nice dresses. Which are on the radar now because: Prom.

I didn’t think Midi-Me was very interested in the idea but just goes to show you I don’t know everything. She managed to get a ticket and I jumped for joy because: DRESSES! She had surprisingly fallen in love with a dress from the show. She hasn’t been interested in dresses since the age of about 10 so this was a major development for me because I miss Midi-Me in dresses.

So I secretly asked the google and found the label said dress came from.

It wasn’t designer but highstreet-onliney, hurrah! I looked for their website and on ASOS and they had some very pretty styles but The One must have been a previous season. Not one to let a little thing like unavailability deter me, I summoned all my predatory tiger-mother instincts to plan my next step. Hmm why not just have a little browse on Ebay, I thought. Guess what? I only found the VERY dress in her size AND in petite available with a “buy now” button so I didn’t even have to bid. Miracles CAN happen, dear reader AND at only £45 AND to children who come from broken homes.

Listen to Angelina’s popular chat show Dessert Island Discs on live on www.thepulsehr. uk Thursdays at 10am or catch up at www. mixcloud.com/angelina-melwani *facebook.com/ angelinamelwani * twitter @appleina * mynotesfromtheedge. blogspot.com *Instagram @mynotesfromtheedge

Families North West London 15

Local Clubs and Classes Directory PARTIES Mini Maniacs are an Award Finalist Party Entertainment Business. Specialising in themed and non themed children’s parties for 1-9 year olds. From princesses to Discos, Bouncy Castles to Mascots, we have it all. Our reviews are outstanding and our entertainers are unbelievable. Book today to see the magic for yourself! 07711980132  rav@mini-maniacs.com www. facebook.com/theMiniManiacs www.twitter.com/theMiniManiacs www. mini-maniacs.com 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 Silly Millie the Clown - parties for 3 - 9 year olds. Funny magic show, puppet’s, party games, silly songs & balloon animals. 020 7823 8329 or 07939 239 397  www.sillymillietheclown.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 for Stress Relief and Wellbeing Feel energised, improve mental clarity, better memory recall, increase happiness, flush out negative thoughts, improve physical and mental health. Plus FREE 10 min stress relief treatment for newcomers. Every 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month at: The Stables, Eastcote House Gardens, Pinner, HA5 2QS. No booking required. All welcome.

Donation to charity. For more information contact: Alexandra Barrett:  alexandrabarrett@me.com,  0775 334 90 24 The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) Pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore.

Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based yoga classes for women throughout their lives. The sessions incorporate traditional yoga asanas (postures) adapted for water, water relaxations and positive life building experiences for women, mothers and mothers to be. There are AquaBellies - Aquanatal yoga for pregnancy, AquaMamas, post natal and AquaBelles aqua yoga classes suitable for all women. NEW YogaBelles: yoga designed for a unique women’s body.  07840 904887  anjli@ yogabellies.co.uk www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli Zest For Life Studio is a new secret fitness oasis for vitality and wellness near you. Let me welcome you in my garden studio to share an invigorating hour of zesty fitness, a unique programme of toning circuit & zumba: enjoy a variety of class at 9am, a personal touch, small group of 6-8. In&outdoor classes. marion.bignone.zumba.com - zestforlifestudio@gmail.com

First Aid

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

LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT

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 Club Petit Pierrot (NW3/8/11) French Parent & Toddler group for 2-4 year olds in Hampstead at the JW3 Centre (NW3). Mon from 10.30am-11.15am and will be a multi-sensory session, totally in French, with many fun and varied

16 Families North West London

activities including songs, rhymes, music, arts & crafts, dances and movement, language games, and puppets…all great fun! There will also be new fun French after-school classes on Weds for 4 to 6 yr olds and 6 to 8 yr olds in St Anthony’s School for Girls, Hampstead (NW11). Multi-sensory sessions with arts & crafts and music & movement also take place in St Mark’s Church Hall, St John’s Wood/Maida Vale (NW8) on Thurs, Fri and Sat.  020 7385 5565  admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Saturday morning at 9am and 10am at St Lawrence Church in Eastcote, Pinner.  www.sansaar.org Little Stars Baby Club (HA9) A fun and friendly baby club where new mums with babies from birth to sitting can relax and meet new friends whilst babies play and explore with a range of lovely sensory toys. Every Friday 9:30-11:15am at Powell Suites @ Chalkhill Community Centre, The Welford Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley Park HA9 9FX. £2.00  0208 385 1836  littlestarswembley@gmail.com The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An Independent Practice providing an exceptionally high quality, caring and individualised service for promoting the communication needs of children.

We offer Speech and Language Therapy sessions within a modern clinic base, nurseries and schools. 01923 824 074 07956 994721  www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Portuguese for Children (NW6) Every Saturday, from 10am to 12pm, the International Gospel Church on Belsize Road will be open for children from 4 to 12 years of Brazilian-English parents to enrol. Lessons will include how to read and write and Brazilian culture, including music. Lessons run from September and February 2016 and are free.  contact@igclondon.org.uk Guju Tots Swagatham! Kem Chho? Come along to a FREE taster of these funfilled 45 minute classes in NW London to help kids 6 months to 5 years learn Gujarati through songs & stories! Interactive, relaxed classes, plus plenty of material to practice at home!  07956 385 316  www.gujutots.co.uk

Outdoor

Forest School Sessions for Parent and Toddlers and Home Educators starting in Oxhey Woods in January every Monday. Children are introduced to the wonders of the woodland through play, song, story telling, craft and practical skills. For more information  Emma on 07900 215512 or  www.forevergreenforestschool.com

Sign Language

Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills. Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and Harrow.  www.singandsign.com

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 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 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. 01895 624755  www. thewindmillstudio.com

MUSIC & MOVEMENT

Beat Building Vibrant & energising music classes using African drums and funky percussion. Great songs and games get the imagination glowing & introduce the concepts of beats, rhythmic patterns, time keeping & also encourage sharing, taking turns and listening. A wonderful introduction to music and rhythm, beat Building is brilliantly fun! 07721 623 171  info@ beatbuilding.co.uk www. beatbuilding.co.uk www.facebook.com/beatbuilding Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 yrs with small, age-related classes. Classes are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and core music skills. New class starting in Hendon in Jan 2017. 020 8444 9435  www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk Diddi Dance Harrow & North Hillingdon (various) 2018 marks 15 years since diddi dance, the much-loved national dance classes for little ones, launched its first class in Islington, London. To celebrate, diddi dancers & their friends are invited to don their best party attire and attend special party themed dance classes filled with dancing props, games, balloons, bubbles and much more! From 4th to 10th June 2018. diddi dancers old and new are welcome to attend any of the special party classes during the week in their party best and help us wish diddi dance a happy 15th birthday! To book a FREE TRIAL contact tejal. patel@diddidance.com

Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are filled with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement.Focusing on a range of engaging activities, the classes take you up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster!  hilda@mini-maniacs.com www.mini-maniacs.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

SPORTS AND EXERCISE

All Stars Cricket Gives boys and girls aged 5-8 the chance to play, learn great skills and make new friends! 8 week course starts May 2018.  www.allstarscricket.co.uk Better leisure centres (various) We exist to make community services and spaces better for everyone. That means providing access to quality community leisure and fitness facilities - and more - at a price everyone can afford.  www.better.org. uk/families 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 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. Call 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886 to book a trial session. 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) Why should your child learn to swim? Swimming is lots of fun for people of all ages and also provides loads of health benefits which can help to keep you and your children healthy and happy at the same time. What’s more, swimming is the only sport which can save your child’s life. Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental death in children, so being able to swim is an essential life-saving skill.  To find out more about learning to swim at your local leisure centre visit www. everyoneactive.com.

Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time, Field End Rd for ages 5–11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.45am, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 12.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Tracey fieldendflyers@gmail.com Harrow Junior Hockey Club (HA1) run sessions for children aged 4- 16 years on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings at The John Lyon School Playing Fields, Sudbury Hill, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3NA. Everyone welcome please contact us for more information  harrowhcjuniors@outlook.com Kaishi Karate School has classes for children and adults. Karate helps in all sorts of positive ways. First class is free.  www.kaishikarate34.com for more info or call Sheena 07875501674 Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet 020 8201 1084  jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk. Ruislip, Northwood/ Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford  0208 123 9346  jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley  0208 422 0676  niro@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk London Academy of Gymnastics and Dance (LAGAD) Wembley and across North London (N2, N3, N8, N10, N14, N15, N20, N22, NW11, HA9). Quality, fun and safety conscious classes with fully-trained, highly-qualified coaches.

Classes for youngsters from 3.5 years through to advanced levels. Wembley club opens for the summer term in a brand new Sports Hall at the Ark ElvinAcademy (HA9). Wembley Classes for ages 3.5 to 11 years (up to Year 6), all abilities welcome. Holiday Camps, Birthday Parties and Adult Ballet (N10) also available. LAGAD aim to inspire and ignite a passion.  www.lagad. co.ukinfo@lagad.co.uk  0208 883 4675 Rugbytots - the UK’s first rugby based play programme for 2-7 year olds.

Focusing on developing your child’s motor skills and confidence with fun-filled programmes aimed at improving general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination. Currently classes in Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore.  For more information contact charlie@rugbytots.co.uk SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children.

All students are taught in small groups of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years (an hour and a half) Main Academy 6-16 years (3

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Local Clubs and Classes Directory hours). (Previously known as SportsCoach.) Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth 01923255099  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

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 years teaching yoga in various settings, including adult education and family learning, community clubs, hospitals and mental health centres. For adults and children 6-11 years.  Joyce on 07912 879 103  joycedpower@aol.com YogaBelliesKidz Family yoga (HA & WD) Share the mental and physical benefits of yoga...peace of mind, relaxation and increases body strength and flexibility!

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

Swimmimg Aqua Vie Swimming based on effortless swimming and true water confidence.

Fun classes for babies & Children from 6wks+ to all ages including Adults. New Tues, Wed & Sunday morning classes in Bushey WD23.  01923 245 772  www.aqua-vie.com or email office@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 .

Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday clubs and After school club held at Quainton Hall School. Swimming lessons also held at Merchant Taylors School and Uxendon Manor Primary School.  Splashtime Swim School 07903126486 Children’s Activities 07794078452

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.

JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Truly like no other, with classes available from 2.5 years – adults, male and female plus an incredibly busy agency that is always looking for new recruits! 01895 624755  www.jam2000.co.uk Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) A new school year is here, which means that children across London and the Home Counties are taking to the stage as Jigsaw begins an exciting new term of drama, singing and dance classes; the perfect activity to escape the cold, wet October weekends.Performing arts classes are an excellent way to build confidence and social skills and are lots of fun. For more information or to book a two-week trial,  www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.

Italia Conti Ruislip (HA5) Performing Arts School for 2yrs to adult, Haydon School Eastcote. ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern, Street dance, Break Dance, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Singing, LAMDA, acting, Gymnastics, Lyrical. Call or email for a Free Trial 20 8838 8747  info@italiacontiruislip.co.uk www.italiacontiruislip.co.uk Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-12s Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development.

Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration. The perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs and videos that the children can play at home to keep the magic alive. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions.Visit www.perform. org.uk/try to book a FREE class today. Venues: Croxley Green, Eastcote (Pinner), Harrow, Kensal Rise, Northwood, Pinner, Queens Park, Rayners Lane, Stanmore, Wembley, plus a new class starting in Ickenham. Contact: 020 7255 9120  enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/try 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 Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, Drama and Communication Skills for children 3-18yrs.  wordworksstudio@ymail.com

Dance Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge City Centre. Classes for children ages 2 all the way through to adults. Hip Hop, Street Dance, Gymnastics, Free Running, Breakdancing, Ballet (RAD), Tap (ISTD), Contemporary, Cheerleading, Pole Fitness, and Children’s Parties. Classes range from beginners to advanced/competitive levels. Three fully equipped studios available for hire, at very competitive rates. Futunity UK also supply dance (all genres) and gymnastics teachers into schools to run after/before school extra curricular sessions, and PE and PPA cover lessons. 01895 251224  admin@futunityuk.com www.futunityuk.com Harrow Theatre Dance & Pinner Theatre Dance (HA) Ballet, Modern, Tap and Street Dance. In Harrow, Pinner and Ruislip. ISTD qualified teachers and exams. Classes for children aged 3+. Adult tap and ballet also available. Text: 07804 910 551  Info@HarrowTheatreDance.co.uk Info@PinnerTheatreDance.co.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 Lorna Clark School of Dance (Various) Established for over 40 years, training students from 3-18 yrs - Ballet, Tap, Modern, Classical Greek and National. Royal Academy of Dance Examinations are taken in Ballet from Primary to Advanced Level and ISTD exams in all other Genre to the same standard. All classes held in South Harrow/Eastcote. Book a free No Obligation Lesson with this advert.  0208 8662105 or 01923 285380.  www.lornaclarkschoolofdance.co.uk The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations  020 8950 2457  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

ARTS AND CRAFTS Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for children and adults. On-going, small groups Mon–Thurs afternoons and Saturday mornings in Term Time for children from Year 1 up.

Weekday morning studio sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment. 020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or 11-12pm at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric printing and much more! For 5-11yr olds.

Materials provided. Qualified teachers. 07946 055 422  info@mysistersandme.co.uk Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) A new and exciting Arts and Crafts activity club for children ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and holidays. They offer and Mother Toddler Group art club (aged 1-4 yrs) and an 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  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

1Point4Teacher (HA) Do you have a child in KS1 and KS2? Does your child need more of a challenge? Then give 1Point4Teacher a try today. Lessons from a qualified primary school teacher, with a class ratio of 1 adult to 4 children. English tuition on Mondays and Tuesdays, covering reading comprehension and SPAG (spellings, punctuation and grammar) with math lessons on a Wednesday.

Harrow, 5 minutes from Kenton Library.  www.1Point4Teacher.co.uk or email the Head Tutor Mrs Edwin on info@1point4teacher.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 Champs Learning (HA1) A very structured tuition course for English, Maths, Science and 11+ exams. Courses run at Harrow College. 020 3004 9007  www.champslearning.co.uk Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes held at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes.

Every lesson is designed to complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials available. 020 8434 7111.  www.clickit-kids.co.uk. wendy@clickit-kids.co.uk.

DiscoG Coding Boot Camp (various) Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the

National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses are also available. Gerard on 07767 300940  info@discogcodingacademy.com www. discogcodingacademy.com Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware. Programmes for children from 2.5-16 yrs. If your child needs a little extra help, in English maths verbal and non-verbal 4+ 7+ and 11+ preparing for entrance exams or you just want to give them every advantage, Elisa can help. 99% success rate. 020 8958 1192 07956868119  www.childrensstories.net www.kidslearnfast.co.uk Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest centre or call to book a free trial class!  www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time adjacent to Field End Junior School, Field End Road, Eastcote, HA4, for children aged 5 – 11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.15am and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 11.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves, water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Contact Tracey at fieldendflyers@gmail.com The Harrow Woodcraft Folk (HA) Elfin group for children, 6 to 9 year olds are reopening their group after the Summer holidays on Tuesday 6th September in Central Harrow. Parents wishing to join their children should contact the District Secretary; John Woolf: 020 8428 2409 or  e-mail: harrow@woodcraft.org. uk For more information regarding Harrow Woodcraft Folk visit their web site: www. harrowwoodcraftfolk.btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime Children’s Activities limited (HA1) Pick’s up from four local school’s at the end of the school day, then take the children back to the club for a snack and the daily activity. They are open MondayFriday 3pm-6pm Nicole 07794078452  holidays@activetime.co.uk www. activetime.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 JKEducate Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL. 020 3488 0754  www.jkeducate.co.uk Karen Wilkin Tuition (HA) 4+/5+ tuition. One to one, tailor made, 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 Leaders are Readers (HA5 & N21) Offer specialist experience and accelerated learning in their award winning Saturday School, and also run popular Summer and Winter Schools during holidays. 2 hours spent per subject, including English, Maths, Learning to Read and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. All programmes are for ages 3.5 to 11 and the success rate is 90% for helping pupils prepare to sit entrance exams, including 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+. Childcare vouchers accepted. 01992 651 300  www.leadersarereaders.co.uk The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus classroom based learning, to yr 4 and 5 students. Prepare students to sit exams for Grammar and private schools.  For a call back email your name and number to info@ thelondontutors.co.uk Love 2 Learn (HA) Experienced Primary School teacher and tutor for year 1 to year 6 in Pinner. 11-12 week session taught in small groups. Topics include Creative Writing, Mental Maths, Persuasive Writing, Public Speaking and Cross Curriculum Education. Mrs S Mukhtar. 07958 728184  lovetolearncreatively@gmail.com Lumilie’s Learning World (HA) New Children’s Educational/Developmental Classes for 2yrs-5yrs. Dynamic approach of interactive Musical Activities, igniting children’s senses to a world of multiple learning opportunities. Expanding curious minds through language, communication, education and creative experiences for holistic growth. Classes at Harrow Arts Centre - Call Andrea 07914 953123 to book your FREE TRIAL.  www.lumilieslearningworld.com Mastermind Tuition (HA) Specialists in 11+. Maths, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal, Grammar & independent School Preparation. £15 per session. Classes in Harrow and Northwood. 075 10 10 50 50. www.mastermindtuition.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 at Malorees Infant & Junior Schools (NW6) 3.30pm to 6pm term time. Play schemes available out of term-time. 0207 407 6744. admin@theplayshelter.co.uk www.theplayshelter.co.uk The Rainbow Club (various) Specialise in preparing for 3+, 4+ and 5+ entrance exams. 07850 045 471  Sonya.Thiru@gmail.com Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children on the SEN register. Reading courses are flexible with home based learning (via computer) monitored daily. Usha Patel on 07766 837 616  info@ravivpracticelondon. co.uk (registered therapist) Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the students on the courses have achieved success.  020 7683 0734  www. sdeuk.org/swherts Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA2) Learn to touch type!

Weekly lessons and intensive holiday courses for children from age 8-18. Highly recommended for children with dyslexia. Classes are held at their office in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult classes also available.  020 8434 7111.  www.typeitforkids.co.uk. wendy@typeitforkids.co.uk.

Paediatric First Aid Courses Sun 20 May, Wed 23 May, Sat 9 June - Harrow on the Hill

Suitable for Ofsted Registration.

Includes some home study.

Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85

Contact Margaret at mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk or on 07814 191 395 for bookings Other dates available

familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 17

What’s On

What’s On Children’s Theatre

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

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check with the venue directly before setting out.

The Alban Arena Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk

Wed 20 – Sun 24 Jun - Bing Live! Bing Goes to the Theatre Calling all Bingsters! Join Bing, Sula, Coco and Pando as they find out how to tell stories by pretending, dressing-up and singing songs. Flop and Amma are there to help, but in this magical world of make-believe things don’t always go according to plan… Don’t miss the chance to see your little one’s face as their favourite characters are brought to life in this brand-new show. Full of fun, laughter and music, Bing Live! is the perfect first theatre trip for pre-schoolers and their families.

Wed 27 – Sat 30 Jun - Wind In The Willows The cat (or Mole) is out of the bag for 2018! Brilliant Theatre Arts proudly presents their 2018 production of Wind In The Willows The New Musical – their first ever non youth group production, fresh from London’s West End!

The Apollo Victoria 17 Wilton Rd, Pimlico, SW1V 0844 871 3001 www.theapollovictoria.com

Ongoing - Wicked Wicked tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two young women who first meet as sorcery students at Shiz University; the blonde and very popular Glinda and a misunderstood green girl named Elphaba. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destines as Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. With show-stopping songs by Stephen Schwartz and adapted for the stage by Winnie Holzman from the acclaimed novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked is an unforgettable musical that transports audiences to a stunningly re-imagined world of Oz, providing marvels beyond your imagination.

Artsdepot 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 020 8369 5454 www. artsdepot.co.uk

Sun 6 May - The Owl and the Pussycat Join Owly-cat and fellow family

members, Jumblie and Quangle Wangle Quee, in a story inspired by the nonsense world of Edward Lear. The spongetaneous trio travel to the dolomphious land where the bong tree grows, learning all about the creatures who live there and their curious habits. Will this meloobious family return together, will they always be a three? A fizzgiggious show all about where, what and who our family really are. Ages 4+ Sun 13 May - Kaleidoscope Blink.

Blink again. What do you see? Day by day your world is filling up with colour, little one. Reds and blues, yellows and greens. Twinkling lights that glisten and gleam. Watch as your baby enters the multicoloured world of Kaleidoscope, inspired by research into how a baby’s sense of sight develops and how they instinctively begin to categorise colour. Ages 6-18 months Sun 20 May - David Gibb: Climb That Tree Join award-winning songwriter and musician David Gibb on a musical journey through his hilarious and often surreal imagination, where bears live in the cupboard under the stairs, wolves are roaming the corridors at school, and trips to the moon are a regular occurrence. Children and families will be entranced as he introduces them to his magical musical tree and, as each flower opens, shares a new song for them to sing along with. Ages 3+ Wed 30 May - Sun 3 Jun Twinkle Twinkle There are melodies that live in all of us. No one knows that more than Marty the puppy, whose bedtime songs and playtime with his Dad are the best part of his day.

But sometimes, you have to learn how to find the music inside yourself… Twinkle Twinkle is a beautiful adventure in music and light, featuring brilliant puppetry, magical interaction and a gorgeous original score. Ages 1-3 yrs Sat 2 - Sun 3 Jun - Michael Rosen’s Chocolate Cake When I was a boy, I had a favourite treat. It was when my mum made… Chocolate Cake! Follow the adventures of two brothers and the mysterious night-time disappearance of a chocolate cake in this scrumptious new musical adaption of Michael Rosen’s beloved poem Chocolate Cake, by the team that adapted We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.

Ages 4+

Sun 10 Jun - Sourpuss Sourpuss is a very grumpy ginger cat. When shut out of the house he feels lost and confused, but the beautiful garden soon intrigues him. Watch Sourpuss on his journey of discovery and enjoy learning the secrets of the great outdoors. From buzzing bees to a chirpy robin, stinky rubbish and vibrant flowers this visual show is a feast for little eyes. Featuring string and shadow puppets beautifully crafted by hand and original music, Sourpuss is a brand new theatre production by Lori Hopkins. Ages 3-8 yrs Sun 17 Jun - Nutty Noah: Wear Your Pants with Pride Noah is loved and revered by family audiences for his explosive mix of music, magic and madness. His trademark goofy shtick is interspersed with funny, sometimes weird, and wonderful music; with many songs performed on instruments he has invented himself. Nutty Noah’s Wear Your Pants with Pride is a show that has a true universal appeal, delighting kids of all ages from 4 to 94 year olds. In recent years Noah has been seen on CBBC’s The Slammer and ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent. Ages 4+ Sun 24 Jun - Keepy Uppy Joey absolutely loves football. Playing it, watching it, talking about it. He gets it from his mum - a footy fanatic! Life is busy for Joey and mum, but today nothing can get in their way as the big day has arrived: the cup final and a chance for Joey to score a winning goal. A play for the 2018 World Cup year, for football fans, non-football fans, children and families. Go and celebrate the joy of the beautiful game with popping rhymes, fab footie moves, flicks and sidesteps underscored by toe tapping live music. This is a visual treat that will ignite children’s imagination from kick-off to the final whistle. Ages 3+

The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes. 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk

Mon 21 - Tue 22 May - Dinosaur World Live Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World in this interactive new show for all the family. Grab your compass and join the intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs.

Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus! A special meet and greet after the show offers all our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend.

Fri 1 Jun - Doctor Dolittle Go and meet Doctor Dolittle light up the stage in this magical musical adventure. This is a brand new show with original music, lots of audience participation and amazing puppets. Ages 7+ Sat 30 Jun - Sun 1 Jul Teletubbies Live Join Tinky Winky,

18 Families North West London

Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po in a show full of love and laughter as they explore the magical world of Teletubbyland. Look out for the Tubby Phone, Noo-noo and the Sun Baby in a fun, bright and safe world which captures young children’s imaginations and encourages them to explore the world around them. Join in and enjoy beloved features from the TV series along with brand new songs. Ages 6 months+

Chickenshed Chase Side Southgate N14.

020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk

Fri 4 May – Sat 9 Jun - Planet Play Summer Season Welcome to Planet Play, a magical world of sensory learning, wonder and exploration, for babies and toddlers aged 0-3 years. Devised by the creative Tales from the Shed team, Planet Play has been specifically developed to encourage play and early communication development in young children. So go along every Friday and Saturday morning for musical fun and games, learn lots of new songs, play with puppets, dance and enjoy time with your little one.

Fri 4 May - Sat 9 Jun – Tales from the Shed Summer Season Vibrant, interactive theatre shows perfect for young children. Informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience share the same space - children are always encouraged to make a lot of noise and to make the story happen. It is guaranteed that every show will be fun, really silly and that there will be plenty of colourful puppets and live songs. Shows run weekly on Fridays and Saturdays. Ages 0-6yrs

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

Until Sun 20 May - Kika’s Birthday Kika, a little French mouse, is going to be 5 years old! Her family has planned a birthday surprise, with friends, songs and a grasshopper band. But who is that with his twitchy tail and shining eyes watching them closely? It’s That Bright Orange Cat. Will he join the party, make some new friends and share some birthday cake, or does he have something else in mind? A delightful interactive story, with puppetry, by award winning storyteller Danyah Miller. Go and help this family of mice bake a special birthday cake for Kika and maybe you can have a tiny piece too. Ages 3 – 8 yrs Sat 12 – Sun 13 May - A Heart At Sea Be enthralled by this epic musical folktale told on a miniature scale. A Heart at Sea uses haunting live music to tell the story of a young Boy who bottles up his heart and throws it into the sea. Original song-writing is set to breathtaking visuals centred around a beautifully carved wooden chest that holds the secrets to the story.

Ages 7-12 yrs

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What’s On Sat 19 - Sun 20 May - One Item Only If you had to take a long journey away from home and you could only take one item with you – what would it be? This is the decision our young hero has to make in their story of human migration. Follow one child’s journey across continents in search of refuge from her troubled homeland, in this eventful and uplifting story of hope and resilience where the human spirit triumphs. Ages 7-12 yrs

in the Beanstalk Cafe, including the sweet and sour tale of The Old Woman in a Vinegar Bottle, and a tasty take on Jack and the Beanstalk.

Watch and giggle as two full-grown adults play with their food as they search for the recipe for the perfect story. Using imaginatively designed shadows and table-top puppets, and including original live music and song, Martin Bridle and Su Eaton present a visually witty, musical and comical confection. Ages 4-8 yrs

Wed 23 – Sun 27 May - The Little Mochi Man It’s almost New Year and little Mochi Man, tired of being bullied because of his small size, decides to run away.

Join him on his adventures as he travels from the snowy mountains of Hokkaido, to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, meeting wondrous creatures and characters along the way, including The Gingerbread Man and a very fast bullet train!

Mixing modern with traditional Japanese forms of story-telling inspired by the traditions of Shogatsu (Japanese New Year celebrations) A Thousand Cranes brings a brand new piece of inventive theatre for young audiences; thought-provoking, funny and just a bit different. Ages 4-8 yrs

Mon 18 Jun - Leaf Go along to hear the life story of a very special leaf in this warm, intimate and playful new piece for under 3s inspired by nature and the seasons. Framed within an evocative soundscape, this is the perfect introduction to theatre for the very young. Ages 4 months-3 yrs

Mon 28 – Tue 30 May - Tom Thumb Outwitting his parents and the ogre Tom shows everybody that even though he is small he is still mighty as he protects his brothers, finds the treasure and makes sure they’ll never be hungry again. Performed entirely on and under a kitchen table this wee wonder of a show is full of Lyngo magic with feathery spinning birds, a flying house and a portable forest. Cbeebies Patrick Lynch, who has been performing it for more than a decade, brings this classic story to life in a playful and fascinating show. Ages 4-8 yrs Thu 31 May – Sun 3 Jun - Stories on a String City girl Jacina must leave her Facebook-fuelled life to travel on a quest for her grandma, into the Amazon jungle. But there’s no WiFi in the rain forest, so when her phone stops working, Jacina feels lost and afraid… She must rely on her eyes, her ears and her heart, as the creatures of the jungle reveal to her a new path and a way back home. Not every answer can be found in the technology in the palm of our hand!

Brings the mysteries of the Amazon jungle to life through live Brazilian music, songs and puppetry, for ages 6+.

Sat 2 – Sun 3 Jun - The Pixies’ Scarf Inspired by the powerfully evocative tale of The Pixies’ Scarf by Alison Uttely, Soap Soup Theatre present a brand new theatrical treat for children and their families, set in the wet, craggy lands of Dartmoor. With deliciously visual story telling, Soap Soup combines beautiful puppetry, charmingly funny characters and magical music, offering audiences their most unforgettable adventure yet! Ages 3-8 yrs Wed 6 – Sun 10 Jun - Cardboard Carnival With their own inimitable style Lempen have taken the fantastic music by Camille Saint-Saëns, and an exploration of the material of cardboard, to make a fun, visual production with no text. Refreshingly focused on the simple magic of puppetry, audiences are left inspired by both the animal theatricality of the music and the creative potential of the simple cardboard box.

Ages 4 -10 yrs Fri 8 Jun – Sun 29 Jul - Sleeping Beauty in the Wood A dreamlike fantasy of palaces and forests, ogres and fairies, princes and babes. It tells the story of a King and Queen desperate for a child, and a fairy who grants their wish. But when the fairy is not invited to baby Rose’s christening, she casts a different kind of spell – on her 16th birthday, the young princess will prick her finger and everyone in the kingdom will fall asleep for 100 years. Only the arrival of a prince from the Far East brings hope of an awakening. This bold production spins puppets, projections, automata and live music to weave an irresistible magic. Ages 4-9 yrs Wed 13 – Sun 17 Jun - Jack at the Beanstalk Café Hand to Mouth Theatre present a nourishing bean-feast of stories

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Sat 23 – Sun 24 Jun - A Square World A story of friends who enjoy the same routine day after day until an unexpected change is forced upon just one of them. This accidental happening throws everyone into disarray, the friends realise their daily routine is no longer as enjoyable as it was and decide they need to redefine the rules of the square world in which they live. By injecting a little fun and chaos they discover their lives won’t be square ever again!

This endearing and funny performance looks at the unfairness of being left out in a world designed for everyone but yourself. Ages 4-8 yrs Mon 25 Jun - The Adventures of Pom Leading early-years story-teller and performance artist Ruthie Boycott-Garnett has been commissioned by Big Imaginations to create a visual and sensory exploration of the Greek Myth, Persephone with music, moving images and puppetry that will inspire and delight children from weeks old, to full grown adults. A sensory theatre performance. Ages 4 months to 3 yrs

Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES 0844 482 9674 www.nimaxtheatres.com

Wed 4 July – Sun 2 Sept - We’re Going On A Bear Hunt Direct from a smash-hit international tour, Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join the intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure! Ages 3+

Pump House Lower Watford High Street, Watford WD17 01923 241 362 www.pumphouse.info

Wed 9 – Sat 12 May – Into The Woods Cursed by a once beautiful witch a Baker and his wife are childless. They venture into the forest to find the ingredients that will reverse the spell and restore the witch’s beauty: a milk white cow, hair as yellow as corn, a blood red cape, and a slipper of gold. During their journey they meet Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel and Jack, each one on a quest to fulfill a wish.

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 (During the summer the Barge is at Richmond, TW10) 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com

Until Sun 13 May - The Birdman plus Monkey Business The Birdman - A play without words, Birdman tells the story of a small bird rejected from the nest, using specially composed music and expertly carved marionettes. Enchantingly tranquil and moving – the antithesis of television.

Monkey Business - Imagine if the monkeys took over the circus! A programme of light-hearted

fun for all the family, with monkey marionettes performing hilarious tricks – stilt-walking, juggling, trapeze and much more besides!”

Sat 19 May – Sun 8 Jul - Red Riding Hood The much-loved story of Little Red Riding Hood is given a new and humorous twist in the tale, in this specially commissioned version by prize-winning author Deborah Jones. The Granny is arty but forgetful, Red Riding Hood is fearful but feisty and the Wolf as dark and mysterious as his forest. Using a combination of marionettes and shadow puppets, this is a magical show that will enchant both children and adults alike.

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

Sat 12 May - Vienna Festival Ballet: Sleeping Beauty A classic fairytale set to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, stunning choreography, beautiful costumes all combine to portray the struggle between good and evil. The wicked Carbosse casts a spell on Princess Aurora proclaiming that she will one day prick her finger - and die. The Lilac Fairy changes the spell, and instead on the fateful day the Princess and the entire Palace fall into a deep sleep. A century later Prince Florimund revives the Princess with a kiss, the Palace awakes and a parade of fairytale characters attend the wedding.

Following the traditional tale of Sleeping Beauty, this ballet is sure to enchant audiences of all ages.

Mon 28 May - Milkshake! Live - The Magic Storybook Starring Milkshake! Favourites, this all singing, all dancing, musical masterpiece will take audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairy tales.

Set amongst Milkshake’s magical bookcase, this brilliant live show is sure to amaze and delight!

The Milkshake! cast will be singing songs and sharing stories that audience members, young and old, will know and love. Ages 3-7 yrs Fri 8 – Sat 9 Jun - The Snail & The Whale Join a tiny snail on her trip round the world in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the fantastic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Longing to see the world, a tiny snail hitches a lift on the tail of a humpback whale. Together they go on an amazing adventure - but when the whale gets beached, how will the snail save him? Follow the tiny snail’s exciting journey, as seen through the eyes of an adventurous young girl and her seafaring father... Ages 4-7 yrs

Trestle Theatre Russet Drive, St Albans, AL4 01727 850950 www.trestle.org.uk

Sun 20 May - The Nose that Nobody Picked: The Mucusical One day Christopher, a keen, but unorthodox gardener, finds a living nose raised by slugs in his garden. In their hunt to find Little Big Nose a face, they encounter Doctor Skinner, an eccentric plastic surgeon, who has connections to the nose’s past, and sinister intentions for his future. Directed

by Esther Simpson, this unlikely trail of a show comes straight from the strange brain of David Parkin. Expect mountains of mucus, toe-tapping tunes and two nostrils full of magic. Ages 5+

Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street, SE1.

020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com

Until Sun 1 Jul - Sensacional Take your toddler along to a sound and light show in which they are the participants. Watch as your child puts on a white suit and becomes part of a digital world of ladybirds, shapes, squiggles and squarks that won’t keep still, no matter how hard you try to catch them! Bursting with colour and joy, this immensely popular interactive and immersive digital experience has become a regular feature in our programme that families return to again and again. Ages 18mths - 3yrs

Sun 27 May – Sun 1 Jul - Not Now, Bernard David McKee’s iconic picture book, loved by children and adults for over thirty years, will be vividly brought to life in a brand new version directed by Sarah Argent. An astonishingly clever, sometimes melancholic and outrageously funny play for children over 3, and a must-see for parents.

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

Fri 11 May - Vienna Festival Ballet presents: Swan Lake One of the best known love stories, performed by the ever popular Vienna Festival Ballet. Lavish costumes, stunning scenery, international stars, and the glorious music from Tchaikovsky make this a night not to be missed.

Thu 24 - Sat 26 May - Grease Rare Productions presents Grease. Rydell High’s spirited class of ’59-gum-chewing, hub-cap-stealing, hotrod-loving boys with D.A.s and leatherjackets and their wise-cracking girls in teased curls, bobby sox, and pedal pushers-capture the look and sound of the 1950s in a rollicking musical that salutes the rock ‘n’ roll era. While hip Danny Zuke and wholesome Sandy Dumbrowski resolve the problems of their mutual attraction for each other, the gang sings and dances its way through such nostalgic scenes as the pyjama party, the prom, the burger palace, and the drive-in movie.

Tue 29 May - Alice in Wonderland You’d be as mad as a hatter to miss this HARE-larious fun-filled family musical. Take a tumble down the rabbit hole into Wonderland on this epic adventure with Alice and the zany bunch of new friends she meets along the way. Alice in Wonderland is a slick mix of hilarious jokes, original music, innovative sets and beautifully creative costumes.

Watford Palace Theatre Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

Thu 14 – Sat 16 Jun – Oliver!

Consider yourself at home with Lionel Bart’s classic musical based on Charles Dickens’ novel, Oliver Twist. The streets of Victorian England come to life as Oliver, a malnourished orphan in a workhouse, becomes the neglected apprentice of an undertaker. Oliver escapes to London and finds acceptance amongst a group of petty thieves and pickpockets led by the elderly Fagin. When Oliver is captured for a theft that he did not commit, the benevolent victim, Mr. Brownlow takes him in.

Fearing the safety of his hideout, Fagin employs the sinister Bill Sikes and the sympathetic Nancy to kidnap him back, threatening Oliver’s chances of discovering the true love of a family.

Winston Churchill Theatre Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

Wed 2 – Sat 5 May - Calamity Jane WOS is delighted to be performing this wild, warm and humorous ‘Musical Western’ set in the Old West of Deadwood City, based on the 1953 film starring Doris Day. With an Oscar nominated score including The Black Hills of Dakota, The Deadwood Stage (Whip-Crack-Away), The Windy City and the award-winning song - Secret Love, this action packed, rip-roaring adventure is sure to be fun for all.

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What’s On

What’s On

listings for all the family

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing (July/August 2018) send your entry by 1 June 2018 Email Editor@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 for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

May Sat 5 May - Mayor’s Charity Day held by the Uxbridge Classic Vehicle Club (HA4) 40+ Vintage & Classic vehicles will be on display along Manor Farm drive way from 10am till 4pm in aid of the Mayor’s chosen charity. www.ucvc.uk Sat 5 May - Little Gallery Tearoom: Music Quiz (WD17) Shake, jump and jive! Step up to the challenge and test your musical knowledge through the decades or just go along and enjoy some rockin’ and rollin’ tunes over cake and fairtrade drinks. Quiz starts at 2pm. ​www.watfordmuseum.org.uk Sat 5 - Sun 6 May - Art of Style (NW4) Brent Cross will host a brand-new fashion and beauty event, The Art of Style. Combining free beauty makeovers, live pop-up catwalks and fashion sculptures, shoppers will be invited to enjoy the latest trends with an art exhibition twist. www.brentcross.com Sun 6 May - Watford 10K (WD18) The ever popular Watford 10k returns once again taking place along the beautiful Bluebell Route in Cassiobury Park. Organised on behalf of Watford Mencap, there will be a 3k race for Juniors and 1k fun run, as well as the 10k event, with all being chip timed. At HQ there will be stalls and activities - a fun day out for all the family. www.watford10k.org.uk Sun 6 - Mon 7 May - Steam Gala/Model Railway Exhibition at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre (HP22) Railways of all sizes, with up to 5 locomotives in steam, model railway layouts, miniature railway to ride, trade stands, brake van rides, vintage carriages, and much more. Set within a 25 acre site amongst rolling countryside, you can be assured of a fabulous day for all the family! 10:30am to 5pm. www.bucksrailcentre.org Sun 6 – Mon 7 May - Elizabethan May Bank Holiday Event (HP8) Experience traditional Elizabethan May Day Merriment with dancing and music at Chiltern Open Air Museum. Discover what it was like to live in Elizabethan times and experience an Elizabethan May Day celebration. www.coam.org.uk Sun 6 May - Party @ the Mall (HA3) Taking place at JFS, The Mall in Kenton, from 12-5pm. A day of fun for everyone with activities including Last Man Standing, Laser Quest, Bouncy Castle, Soft Play, Tombola, Arts and Crafts, BBQ and much more!

Children £5, adults free. www.facebook.com/patm2018

Mon 7 May - May Day at the Manor (HA2) May Day Festival returns to the newly restored Headstone Manor & Museum! Go and enjoy a day of fabulous family fun between 12 & 5pm, including a Punch and Judy puppet show, Reptile Displays and lots of Children’s activities. Experience traditional Morris Dancing, professional Maypole dancing lessons, craft activities and captivating performances by local musical talent. www.headstonemanor.org Mon 7 May - Watford Celebration 2018 (WD18) This is Watford’s colourful multicultural free annual festival with performances of music, dance and drama, as well as demonstrations of martial and other arts, international lunch time food from the communities in Watford, activities for children including a bouncy castle, activity tables and face painting, and a quiet sacred space area for the sharing of beliefs and faiths.

Refreshments are free all day. All are welcome. 11am-4pm at the Multi Cultural Community Centre, St Michael and All Angels Church and Littlebury Hall, on Durban Road in Watford. www.watfordcelebration.com Mon 7 May - Dive in to Waterworld (WD17) Free fun for pre-schoolers! Join Freddy the Frog at Intu Watford to hear spectacular stories from the deep blue sea. Plus, challenge your friends to hoop a seal in the fun interactive game before creating a colourful sea-life keyring using crazy stickers and googly eyes. 9.30am-1.30pm. www.intu.co.uk/watford Wed 9 May & Wed 13 Jun - Bach to Baby Family Concerts in Kensal Rise (NW10) Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed classical concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. And for the grand finale, it’s your turn! Come gather around the musicians and request your favourite nursery rhymes for the jolly sing-along! At St Martin’s Church in Kensal Rise. www.bachtobaby.com/kensal-rise Thu 10 May – Thu 28 Jun – Effective Parenting (HA1) A course by Hope Harrow for every parent with a child aged 3-12 years. This 6 week programme is aimed to help parents and carers learn practical communication skills for everyday life and to develop their abilities to bring up happy, confident and co-operative children. The course takes place every Thurs (not Half Term) from 7-9pm at The Lodge, 64 Pinner Rd. 020 8863 7319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk

Geronimo Festival Sat 12 May - Watford Model Railway Exhibition (WD23) The South West Herts Model Railway Society is pleased to announce its 38th Annual Model Railway exhibition which will be held at Queens School in Bushey from 10am-4.30pm. Over 20 quality layouts have been invited from across the country covering a range of timescales from the early 20th century to the present day. There will be something for the whole family including the opportunity to drive model trains and purchase those essential items for your own collection. www.southwesthertsmrs.org.uk Sat 12 May - Enchanted Museum: Magical Realms (HP8) A special evening opening at the Chiltern Open Air museum. See the Museum transformed into different magical realms inspired by traditional stories and fairytales. 4pm – 8.30pm. www.coam.org.uk Sat 12 May - Dino Adventure (SG3) Go and experience the prehistoric world of the dinosaurs with Dino Adventure at Knebworth House and Gardens. Aspiring palaeontologists and brave explorers can conquer the special dinosaur trail, travelling back in time to face the 72 life-sized dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures! Adventurers who complete the dinosaur trail quiz and find all the dino eggs can claim an exciting reward. Join Tara from Tiny T’s who will be telling her hand written tales about what she found on her explorer adventures! www.knebworthhouse.com Sat 12 – Sun 13 May - Maple Lodge Nature Reserve: Open Weekend (WD3) This private nature reserve is one of Rickmansworth’s hidden secrets and is home to a rich variety of wildlife including waterfowl, woodland birds, bats and butterflies. On both days guided tours of the reserve will be organised by members of the Maple Lodge Conservation Society.

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

Entry to the reserve and parking will be free of charge. 11am-4pm.

No dogs. www.maplelodgenaturereserve.org Sun 13 May - Ruislip Woods Festival (UB9) Go along to Bayhurst Woods for a fun filled afternoon celebrating the 21st anniversary of Ruislip Woods being declared a National Nature Reserve. There will be falconry displays, sheep dog and duck demonstrations from Meirion Owen’s Quack Pack, ferret racing, face painting, donkey rides and children’s crafts together with woodland craft demonstrations and exhibits from local groups.

Watch a chainsaw sculpture being brought to life out of wood with the wonderful opportunity to buy this unique piece and go on a woodland walk with experienced woodsmen. 12-4:30pm. Free event and car park. www.ruislipwoodstrust.org.uk

20 Families North West London

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What’s On

Sat 26 May – Sun 3 Jun - Half-term: Be a Journalist (SW3) Go along to the National Army Museum this May half-term to flex your tech skills and create a mini-documentary about some of the Museum’s objects. Discover the stories behind the objects, write a script and record your film using the Museum’s iPads.

Sessions daily from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Pick up a free ticket from the Welcome Desk on a first come first served basis. www.nam.ac.uk Sat 26 May – Sun 3 Jun – Half Term at the National Maritime Museum (SE10) This half term celebrates 100 years since the right to vote was given to lots of women and men in the UK. Discover inspirational stories from the past and think about the rights that are important to you today. See website for details of activities and times. www.rmg.co.uk

Chiltern Open Air museum Tue 15 May – Tue 10 Jul - Living with a Teenager Course (HA1) This course is for every parent with a teenager or adolescent aged 12 years+. It can be exciting and satisfying helping our young people grow up to be capable independent young adults! Topics include:- Understanding and acknowledging the needs of pre teens and teenagers; Understanding why Teens do what they do ; Negotiating and setting limits; Finding different ways to communicate effectively. At HOPE Harrow, 64 Pinner Road weekly from 7-9pm - 8 sessions not including Half Term Holidays.

Please call 0208 863 7319 to book a place Or Email: info@ hopeharrow.org.uk Sat 19 May - Lots for Tots Sale: Watford (WD25) It’s easy to sell at Lots for Tots! The table is set up and ready when you arrive and you take along your items to sell, choose the price and take all of your profits. The Watford sales take place at Francis Combe Academy from 10-11.45am. There is parking onsite and also in nearby streets and the bus stops directly outside the school. info@lotsfortotssale.co.uk www.lotsfortots.co.uk Sun 20 May - On Your Bike 40-mile Cycle Challenge (HA6) If you’ve made a New Year’s Resolution to get a bit fitter or already love to take to your bicycle and hit the road, then why not sign up to take on the Michael Sobell Hospice Charity’s ‘On Your Bike’ 40-mile sponsored cycle challenge. The event, setting off from outside the Northwood-based Hospice, will take hardy cyclists through picturesque local areas including Denham, The Chalfonts, Chesham, Bovingdon and Chipperfield with a well-deserved water stop at the Boot Tavern in Chipperfield for that all-important energy-boost! www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk Sun 20 May - Watford Colour Run 2018 (WD6) Get all the family together and join in the friendliest family fun run in town, the Watford Colour Run, at Aldenham Country Park from 10.30am! And new to 2018, introducing the Foam Zone! Join this fantastic event where you can expect to be covered in coloured powder, splashed with water and covered in foam as you make your way around the 5k route. Everyone taking part in the Watford Colour Run will be helping to raise vital funds for Peace Hospice Care, and there will be a lively events village with live music, food stalls, rides and games throughout the day. www.peacehospicecare.org.uk

May Half-Term Fri 25 – Sun 27 May - Osterley Park and House: Open Air Cinema (TW7) Open air cinema comes to Osterley Park and House this Bank Holiday weekend as the Luna Cinema presents three nights of classic cinema under the stars. Up first, on the 25 May is the ultimate 80s classic, “Dirty Dancing”. Then on the 26 May, Hogwarts is brought to Osterley with a spellbinding night of cinema as “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” takes to the big screen. On the 27 May, join Maverick and Goose as “Top Gun” is screened. Booking Essential.

0844 858 6767 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Sat 26 May – Sun 3 Jun - Spring Special (AL4) The Spring Special programme at Willows Activity Farm will include live sheep shearing demonstrations by Tuck the Shepherd, new shows in the Peter Rabbit Theatre, Sheep Racing around the animal race track and all your Willows Favourites including Tristan the Runaway Tractor. You can also visit Mr Tod’s Lair and the Super Secret Squirrel Test - the perfect additions to the hugely popular Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground. www.willowsactivityfarm.com Sat 26 – Sun 27 May - Light up London (EC2Y) Create atmospheric pictures by using special art materials and techniques with water soluble graphite pencils, crayons and collage at the Museum of London. This is a drop-in workshop, so stop by anytime between 12.30-2pm or 2.30-4pm. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sat 26 – Sun 27 May - Hertfordshire County Show (AL3) A family day out, with all entertainment included in the ticket price. Livestock, horses & dogs, arena displays, fun, food & shopping. At The Showground in Redbourn. www.hertsshow.com Sat 26 - Sun 27 May - Moon Man (EC2Y) Dance the night away when the man in the moon visits London for one night only at the Museum of London! An astronomy enthusiast attempts to spot constellations in London’s polluted sky. She tells the story of Moon Man by Tomi Ungerer. Hear how the man in the moon comes to earth to dance the night away after having watched people on earth dancing. Together with the astronomer, learn some of the dances the man in the moon might have seen. Each performance is 30 minutes long. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

Sun 27 May – Big Bandstand: Peace Hospice Fundraiser (WD18) A great Sunday afternoon of music at the bandstand in Cassiobury Park, raising funds for Peace Hospice. Take a picnic or just soak up the sounds while enjoying the park in all its glory. Starts at 2pm. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk ​ un 27 May - Street Dance Workshop (HA5) S Join street dance pro Selina Johnson for an exciting afternoon of street dance beats and treats at Harrow Arts Centre! Learn some steps, try corner work and build a routine or two to perform at the end of the workshop. 1:30pm - 3:30pm, ages 8-14 years. www.harrowarts.com Sun 27 – Mon 28 May - Roman Gladiators Battle (HP8) If you’re looking for a great educational and fun family day out this Bank Holiday then go along to Chiltern Open Air Museum and see the Roman Gladiators battle! Meet costumed re-enactors, explore the living history encampment and learn about life in Britain in the 1st century AD. Enjoy thrilling combat displays as Roman gladiators compete for the Emperor and the favour of the crowds www.coam.org.uk Mon 28 – Wed 30 May - Out of this World: Moon (SE10) A Moon-themed morning at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich includes a planetarium show, interactive quiz and immersive virtual reality activity. Join the Royal Observatory Astronomers for a series of activity packages for older children that include a brain-bending Moon quiz, the chance to feel what it’s like to step onto the lunar surface and a rock handling demonstration to show what features to expect on the Moon. 10am – 12.30pm. Ages 7+. www.rmg.co.uk Mon 28 May – Fri 1 Jun - Pop-up Performance (SW7) Go along to the V&A Museum for making and performance activities this May half-term, inspired by The Future Starts Here exhibition. Time travel to the future by taking part in energetic sound and dance performances directed by Scanners Inc. and performed by House of Absolute. ‘Stardust’ is a promenade performance with level access, that moves from the John Madejski Garden to the Sackler Courtyard and will last approximately 40 minutes. 11am – 3.45pm. www.vam.ac.uk Continued on page 22

Are you looking for swimming lessons for children of 5 years or over?

Perhaps your older child is ready for a swim club?

…then Brent Dolphins would love to hear from you!

Using the pools at Willesden and Vale Farm, we offer sessions 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

We look forward to seeing you poolside soon! familiesonline.co.uk

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What’s On Continued from page 21

Mon 28 - Tue 29 May - London After Dark (EC2Y) London at night can be a magical place. This was certainly true 200 years ago in the Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens which attracted Londoners with rare lighting and firework shows. Design a spinning paper plate which will reveal this magical scene. This is a drop-in workshop, so stop by the Museum of London anytime between 12.30-2pm or 2.30-4pm. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Mon 28 May – Fri 1 Jun - Sailors’ Challenge (SE10) Can you catch the sailors as they travel at top speed across the Indian Ocean? Answer questions and take part in our shipthemed tasks as you try to outwit the crew of Cutty Sark and take over the ship and her precious cargo. 11.30am–1.30pm and 2-4pm. www.rmg.co.uk Mon 28 May – Sat 2 Jun - May Half Term at the RAF Museum (NW9) Go along for storytelling and craft workshops in the First World War in the Air Galleries. Join Craft Work for a high flying craft activity - make and decorate your very own flying goggles! On Fri 1st and Sat 2nd Jun, hear ‘Cher Ami’, the fascinating story of a Pigeon who managed to rescue an entire Battalion of Soldiers during the First World War. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Tue 29 May - Creepy Crawly Critters Workshop & A Bugs Life (HA5) Join craft wizard Joni Rae Carrack for a bug-tacular morning at Harrow Arts Centre, making your very own creepy crawly critters to take along to the showing of ‘A Bugs Life’! Workshop is 10-10.45am followed by the film at 11am. www.harrowarts.com Tue 29 – Thu 31 May - School Holiday Activities at Mill Green Museum (AL9) On Tue 29 May Design and Decorate a Fabric Bag; On Wed 30 May - Make a simple dream catcher, and on Thurs 31 May - Create a stunning Calico Early Man Wall Art Picture. Activity times are 10am, 11.15am, 1.15pm and 2.30pm. They last for one hour. No booking required, just go along, but please arrive at the start of the session as you’ll need a full hour to make your creations. Suitable for age 4+. museum@welhat.gov.uk www.welhat.gov.uk/mill Wed 30 May - Drawings of Discovery: Penguins to Polar Bears (NW1) Could you draw a kangaroo from memory? What if you were seeing it for the first time? Experiment with drawing animals through playful challenges at the British Library. Gather your sketches in a traveller’s portfolio and hear how Captain James Cook’s artists drew animals to amaze their friends back home. 11am – 12.30pm and repeated at 1.30 – 3pm. www.bl.uk Wed 30 May - Recycled Rubbish Robots & Wall-E (HA5) Go along to Harrow Arts Centre at 10am to create your own robots made from ordinary household rubbish with puppetry wizard Joni Rae Carrack inspired by Wall.E, the rubbish clearing robot. Then go along to see a showing of the film Wall-E at 11am. www.harrowarts.com Wed 30 May - Drawing in the Dark (EC2Y) Help create a special collaborative piece of artwork at the Museum of London. Grab a UV pen and draw a night-time scene that can only be revealed under a UV torch. This is a drop-in workshop, so stop by anytime between 12.30-2pm or 2.30-4pm. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Thu 31 May - Cartoon Museum Family Workshop (HA5) Join cartoonist Steve Marchant from the Cartoon Museum to learn how to create your own cartoon characters using professional methods, and then write and draw your own short comic strip. Includes a free caricature by Steve for all taking part! At Harrow Arts Centre from 10am-12pm. www.harrowarts.com Thu 31 May – Fri 1 Jun - Holiday to Space (SE10) The morning starts in the planetarium at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, with a fun filled Space Safari show, filled with spectacular close up views of the planets and a chance to sing along to help Ted find the great big bear. Learn more about Ted’s adventure in this workshop by choosing which planet would make a good holiday destination and helping the brave teddy bear prepare for his stay. 10–11.30am. Ages 4-7 years. www.rmg.co.uk Thu 31 May – Fri 1 Jun - The Royal Wedding Big Screening (SE10) You’re invited to watch the wedding of the year in the stunning surroundings of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gather on the lawns of the Royal Museums Greenwich and see Harry and Meghan tie the knot on their giant screen. Delicious food, snacks and drinks will be available from our cafés. Royal fancy dress optional, but encouraged. Begins at 12pm but earlier arrival is recommended. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 2 Jun - Moana Family Sing-Along (NW1) A special screening of the Academy Award-winning Disney animation at the British Library. In Ancient Polynesia, when a terrible curse incurred by the Demigod Maui reaches Moana’s island Motunni,

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The Colour Run she answers the ocean’s call to seek out the Demigod and make things right, setting off on an epic adventure across the Pacific. Go along for this sing-along screening of the film hosted by Hanalee Vaike. 2-5pm. www.bl.uk Sat 2 - Sun 3 Jun - Max at Night (EC2Y) Go along to the Museum of London and meet a small kitten called Max. Max is very sleepy and goes on a night time adventure across London, climbing all of London’s famous landmarks in his quest to say goodnight to the moon. This story is an adaptation of Max at Night by Ed Vere. Each performance is 30 minutes long. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

June Sat 2 Jun - New Hope Community Market Garden Open Day (WD18) Go and enjoy the many and varied creative achievements of the service user volunteers and at the same time give your garden vibrant colour this summer by picking up a range of ornamental plants, vegetable seedlings, herbs and craft items made in the garden for a donation. Whilst there you can experience storytelling in the garden yurt, take part in percussion workshops and enjoy other music throughout the day, service user poetry readings, children’s craft activities and light refreshments. 10:30am-3pm at the Community Market Garden, 64 Rickmansworth Road. www.newhope.org.uk Mon 4 Jun - Super-Duper Hero Fun (WD17) Free fun for pre-schoolers at Intu Watford! Fancy yourself as the world’s next superhero? Go pick up some top tips from incredible stories, create your own hero door hanger, then learn how to move like Wonder Woman at an amazing dance class. 9.30am-1.30pm. www.intu.co.uk/watford Sat 9 Jun - Architecture Explorers (NW1) Take a journey from the red bricks of the British Library to the striking pink palaces of Jaipur and use your imagination to design your very own building! Families will have a chance to experiment with different materials and collage to make 2D pictures or a 3D model of their designs. 10.30am – 12pm and repeated at 1 – 2.30pm. www.bl.uk Sat 9 – Sun 17 Jun – Ickenham Festival Week 2018 (UB10) The Festival will run from Sat 9 Jun to Sun 17 Jun, with Village Day being Sat 16 Jun. Village Day will include the ever popular parade through Ickenham, Festival Gala in the afternoon, and an evening concert. Village Day is only one set of events out of more than eighty that will take place during the week.

See website for further details. www.ickenhamfestival.org.uk Sat 9, Sat 16 & Sat 30 Jun - Pop-up Performance: London Music Month (SW7) Go along to the V&A Museum for free music performances for all the family, including early years. Gather inside the wondrous wooden Globe with talented young musician, Luke Saydon, on 9 June for a fun music making session inspired by objects in the gallery and go along to lively music sessions from around the world with students from the Royal College of Music on the 16 and 30 June. These events are part of ‘London Music Month’ - London’s largest celebration of music. www.vam.ac.uk

Sat 10 Jun - South Herts Breast Cancer Now - Run for Fun (WD25) This family fun run is set in the grounds of Edge Grove School; there is a scenic 5km (Adults and older children) and a 1km run (All ages welcome to enter )to get all members of the family running together! Please note - no children can run on their own - they must all be accompanied by an adult runner at all times. There will also be a fantastic activity village on site - kids rides, inflatables, arts and crafts, face painting and more.

In addition there will be a food and drinks court with some super food trucks for everyone, so please stay and enjoy yourself. www.fullonsport.com/event/south-herts-breast-cancer-now-runfor-fun/profile Fri 15 Jun - Ladies in the Night Walk in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice (HA6) Join in a sizzling night of summertime fun, laughter and walking as the Ladies in the Night Walk challenge is back with a carnival twist! Pound the streets of Hillingdon for one amazing night in aid of your very special local hospice. Choose from the NEW 10 mile route or the existing 5.5 mile route. Ladies, men, children and dogs are all welcome on the night!

Sign up online at www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk or call 0203 826 2367 Sat 16 Jun - Hog Roast & Chicken Fest (HA6) Northwood Methodist Church Summer Fair from 1pm. An enjoyable and entertaining afternoon for all the family. Delicious Hog Roast and Chicken by Tolly’s of Moor Park. Entertainment including Ukelele band, school choir and magic show. Also, a wide variety of stalls and other activities including 12 craft stalls, Cream Teas & Cakes, Origami, Face Painting, Second Hand Books, Cakes & Preserves, “All Sorts (Nearly New)”, Tombola, Raffle, and a Toy Stall.

01923 821 871 or 01923 824 596 for tickets. www.northwoodmethodistchurch.org Sat 16 Jun - Watford Rural Parish Council Summer Fun-Day (WD19) A Summer Fun-Day with free entry. Activities include children’s rides, bungee, bouncy castle, bucking rodeo, stalls and raffle. At St Andrew’s Precinct in South Oxhey. www.watfordrural-pc.org.uk Sat 16 Jun - Cheeki Monkeys BIG Pop-up Baby & Children’s Market and Fun Family Day (WD18) A bountiful market with thousands of preloved and hand made goods. The market takes place at Westfield Academy, which is buggy friendly and able to accommodate hundreds of people. The majority of the stallholders will be offering their pre-loved goods for sale; these are complimented by craft stalls offering handmade and unique products. 12-2pm. www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk Sat 16 – Sun 17 Jun - Bushcraft Weekend (HP8) Take the family along to Chiltern Open Air Museum to learn some essential survival skills such as fire lighting and shelter building. www.coam.org.uk Sun 17 Jun – Cancer Research UK Race for Life Hillingdon 5K (UB8) This is a 5k suitable for all abilities. Walk, jog or run and raise valuable funds for research. The Hillingdon course is mainly flat and on grass. There are a few gentle slopes and some sections follow existing gravel paths which wind in and around the open fields of Hillingdon House Farm Sports Ground. www.raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org Sun 17 Jun - Father’s Day at the National Army Museum (SW3) Go along to the National Army

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What’s On Museum this Father’s Day for a range of family-friendly tours and workshops. All activities are free and there’s no need to book. www.nam.ac.uk Sun 17 Jun - Father’s Day Medieval Jousting (SG3) The turrets and towers of Knebworth House provide a spectacular backdrop to the costumed knights on majestic warhorses galloping at full tilt across the arena in a fantastic display of horsemanship. The crowds are encouraged to cheer and jeer the Knights of Arkley as they demonstrate their skills in hand-to-hand combat. There are two scheduled jousting displays on both days at 12.30pm and 2.30pm. www.knebworthhouse.com Thu 21 – Sat 23 Jun - The Real Inspector Hound (HA5) In their 10th anniversary year, the Hillplayers present Tom Stoppard’s absurdist farce. A satiric play-within-aplay, this parody focuses on two theatre critics, insecure Moon and womanizing Birdboot, as they review an Agatha Christie-style murder mystery. At Harrow Arts Centre, 171 Uxbridge Road, Hatch End HA5 4EA Tickets available at https://harrowarts.com or 020 3773 7161 Sat 23 Jun - Abbots Langley Local Food Summer Market (WD4) Abbots Langley Transition Town (ALTTA) is hosting its summer local food and produce market at Henderson Hall in Abbotts Langley. Seasonal fruit and vegetables, cakes and bakes, eggs, locally roasted coffee, chocolate, jams and preserves, unique gifts and crafts. 10am-1pm. www.altta.org.uk Sat 23 – Sun 24 Jun - Suffragettes (HP8) Learn about the Suffragettes at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, and watch displays of suffrajitsu. www.coam.org.uk Sun 24 Jun - Maple Lodge Nature Reserve: Open Day (WD3) This private reserve will be open to the general public for a special Open Day that has been arranged to coincide with National Insect Week, which is organised by the Royal Entomological Society. The day will be centred around the huge variety of invertebrates that can be found on the reserve, including bees, butterflies, dragonflies, damselflies, beetles and spiders, and guided tours will be organised by members of the Maple Lodge Conservation Society. Light refreshments, plants, second-hand books and greeting cards on sale. Entry to the reserve and parking will be free of charge. 11am-4pm, no dogs. www.maplelodgenaturereserve.org

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Wed 27 Jun - Watford Philharmonic Society Present Songs For The Summer (WD18) Featuring the choir from Watford Grammar School For Girls. A summer concert of contrasts! Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana has been described as the most frequently performed choral work of the 21st century. Morten Lauridsen’s O Magnum Mysterium has at its heart the Christmas story and is a choral work of ethereal harmonies and great beauty. Britten’s Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings is a song cycle with settings of six poems by British poets on the subject of night framed by a prologue and epilogue for horn only. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Fri 29 Jun – Sun 1 Jul - Imagine Watford (various) Imagine Watford is an exciting and high impact outdoor arts festival that brings the streets of Watford to life with world-class theatre, circus, dance and music performances, free for all the family.

The festival showcases local, national and international artists of the highest quality, who transform Watford town centre into a place of wonder and excitement! www.imaginewatford.co.uk Sat 30 Jun - Lots for Tots Sale: Rickmansworth (WD3) It’s easy to sell at Lots for Tots!

The table is set up and ready when you arrive and you take along your items to sell, choose the price and take all of your profits. The sale takes place at Rickmansworth School from 10-11.30am. There is parking onsite and the bus stops directly outside the school. info@lotsfortotssale.co.uk www.lotsfortots.co.uk Sat 30 Jun - Armed Forces Day (NW9) Go along to the RAF Museum to celebrate 100 years of the Royal Air Force this Armed Forces Day. They will be remembering and celebrating Service personnel with music and activities throughout the day. It promises to be a day out for the whole family to enjoy. 11am – 4pm. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Sat 30 Jun – Sun 1 Jul - The Geronimo Festivals (SG3) The Geronimo Festivals (dubbed ‘Glastonbury for Kids’), are unlike any other family event in Britain offering something for both seasoned and newbie festival-goers. What sets Geronimo apart from other festivals is not only the unrivalled value for money the event offers, but also the sheer number of unique attractions to enjoy for all ages! Geronimo North takes place in the grounds of the Arley Hall Estate set in beautiful Cheshire countryside between 25th – 28th May, whilst Geronimo South will be held at the iconic Knebworth House in Hertfordshire on 30th June – 1st July.

Without doubt one of the most popular zones of any Geronimo

Festival is the Main Stage. 2018 will see some of children’s TV royalty take to the stage to entertain including the one and only Justin Fletcher. Book your tickets today and make some magical memories in 2018! www.geronimofest.com Mon 2 - Sun 8 Jul - Summer Science Exhibition 2018 (SW1Y) The Royal Society, the UK’s national academy of sciences, will open its doors to the public to celebrate some of the most cutting edge research in the world. The 2018 edition of the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition will feature 22 exhibits expecting to draw more than 15,000 visitors over the course of the week. www.royalsociety.org/summer-science Fri 6 – Sun 22 Jul - Big Screen (WD17) The Big Screen will be making a welcome return to the centre of Watford, promising two weeks of films that young and old can enjoy including blockbusters, rom coms and family films. The screen will also be showing live coverage of this year’s Wimbledon semi-finals and final.

The Big Screen is FREE - there is no need to book, just turn up and enjoy the films! www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sat 7 Jul - The Nightlight Walk 2018 (WD18) Peace Hospice invite you to join them for their second magical 5k lantern walk. Everyone who takes part will be given a NightLight lantern which can be dedicate to a loved one and carried with you along the route to help light the way. This walk is suitable for all ages and will have many surprises along the route to keep everybody entertained. There will be food & drink stalls, rides and entertainment in the events village at Cassiobury Park from 5:30pm, with the event beginning at 8pm. www.peacehospicecare.org.uk Sun 8 Jul – The Color Run (HA9) Dubbed ‘The Happiest 5k on the Planet’, this year is set to be ‘Marvel-lous’ as families and friends are invited to celebrate their favourite hero’s – whether that be The Incredible Hulk, Wonder Woman, Mum or Dad. Those taking part in the event held at London Wembley Park this summer, will run, jog and walk through coloured powder at each kilometre mark along the route. The fun continues beyond the finish line at the Finish Festival – where runners can enjoy the ultimate colour extravaganza combined with DJ’s, food, drink and amazing giveaways as they party with friends and family amidst vibrant bursts of color. www.thecolorrun.co.uk.

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