Families East London

Issue 86 July/Aug 2015

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East London

Summer fun

Annabel Karmel Carole Ann Rice Health & Happiness Clubs & Classes Places to Go

Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities • Courses mapped to the National Curriculum.

• Adapts to the individual needs of your child.

• Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week.

• Award-winning tuition - voted Education Investor Supplementary Education Provider of the Year.

“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.”

Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

are s c ild her ! h C uc pted Vo acce

Reservations for our next FREE Taster Days currently taking place Please visit www.annafiorentini.com or ring 020 7682 1403 for more details.

Fiorentini’s Got Talent Winner, Jermain Jackman, goes on to win The Voice!

The Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School for 3–18 years Based in North London, Hackney, Docklands, Bethnal Green and Lewisham, the award winning Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School for 3–18 year olds offers so much more than the average part-time drama school.

Apart from a weekly time-table of drama, film, dance and singing, all taught by leading industry professionals including casting directors, producers and TV directors, the school also offers: • Professional work via the agency.

Students have appeared in EastEnders, Rev, Top Boy, The Revolting World of Stanley Brown, the British feature Song for Marion and in the West End’s Oliver!, Lion King and Matilda, to name but a few.

Anna Fiorentini.indd 1

• Young Ambassadors – a chance to event manage and gain valuable business skills.

• Our Performance Troupe which performs in hospitals, homes for the elderly, festivals and at community events.

• Lamda Qualifications in drama which carry UCAS points • Shows at prestigious theatres such as the Hackney Empire and the Shaw Theatre • Competitions including Voice Idol, Stars in Their Eyes and Fiorentini’s Got Talent • Annual Oscar Nights • Parents’ Forums • Master classes including stagecraft, hair & make-up, stage combat and presenting • Holiday schools

Drama, Singing, Dance, Film, Set & Costume Design for ages 3–18 Saturdays in North London & Hackney Tuesdays in Bethnal Green Wednesdays in Docklands Thursdays in Lewisham

ANNA FIORENTINI

THEATRE FILM SCHOOL Contact us to book your free no obligation Taster Day. Hurry – Limited Places!

www.ANNAFIORENTINI.com Tel: 020 7682 1403 01/10/2014 16:14

Contents Issue 86 | July/Aug 2015 | Families East London

This Issue

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4 Summer Fun 4 Days out beside the Seaside

this Summer The Summer Sleepover Survival Guide 9 Fun in London with a Merlin Annual Pass 10 Light Bites in the Summer Sun 8

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Regular Features 12 Ed’s Reading Room 15 Clubs & Classes 16 Places to Go Families East London Magazine 120 Brent Street, Hendon, London NW4 2DT For all news and features contact: editor@familieseast.co.uk or call 020 8202 2034 For all advertising enquiries contact: adverts@familieseast.co.uk or call 020 8202 2034 For all web enquiries contact: adverts@familieseast.co.uk or call 020 8202 2034 For all listing enquiries contact: listings@familieseast.co.uk Families East London Ltd cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, details are subject to change and Families East London take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any material. All rights reserved.

Welcome

Hi. Welcome to our fab summer issue. We have lots of great features to keep you occupied this summer from the best beaches to visit to a medieval jousting festival.

There is something for everyone. We are also delighted to welcome Daily Express Columnist and Life Coach Carole Ann Rice to our pages. I hope her article on sleepovers raises a smile! Finally, I hope you enjoy the issue and have a fantastic summer and manage to make lots of happy memories with all your loved ones. Until next time‌ Sharon Editor

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

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summer fun

Lizard Point and Kynance Cove, Cornwall

Days out beside the seaside this summer

National Trust 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ activities for family fun at the beach

Not many things beat a day by the seaside. And when it comes to dreaming up things to do while you’re at the beach, children often have the best ideas. Whether it’s discovering crazy creatures in a rock pool, skimming a stone or jumping over waves, there’s lots of 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ activities to get stuck into on the coast this summer. Grab your bucket and spade this summer and head to the beach where you’ll make memories that last a lifetime. Here are the National Trust’s top 13 spots for a great family day out at the beach:

When you think of Cornwall, you think of beaches and what better place to spend time as a family than this dramatic and historic stretch of the Cornish coast. Lizard Point, the most southerly part of the British mainland, is a great place to admire some spectacular views and to take a treasured family photograph. Kynance Cove is a hidden gem of the Cornish coast and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. This beach is a must for all sun-lovers and sea-paddlers where you can experience incredible scenery, white sand and clear turquoise waters. At low tide you can descend the steps down to the sand and picnic on the shore. Facilities on the beach include the renowned green toilets and a fantastic café which serves food between Easter and November. The Lizard’s other top beaches include: Poldhu Cove, Gunwalloe Cove and Mullion Cove.

Best Beach Activities: • Check out the crazy creatures in a rock pool • Jump over waves • Go on a barefoot walk • Catch a crab

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lizard

Studland Beach, Dorset Studland’s scenic four mile stretch of golden sand has something for everyone to enjoy. In the summer the beach comes truly alive, with many taking to the seas in the boats available to hire. This safe and friendly beach is perfect for

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summer fun

picnics and for building sandcastles, and the heathland that lies behind it has a treasure trove of wildlife for kids to explore. With gently shelving bathing waters and views of Old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight, the beach is an ideal place for water sports and to watch the world go by. If you fancy making a day of it why not hire a National Trust beach hut and tick off some of those 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ activities with the kids. Be sure to bring buckets and spades with you for a blissful day on the sands.

Best Beach Activities: • Create some wild art • Check out the crazy creatures in a rock pool • Catch a crab • Jump over waves or go swimming in the sea

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/woolacombemortehoe-ilfracombe/

Best Beach Activities: • Skim a stone • Catch a fish with a net • Hunt for fossils and bones • Go swimming in the sea

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/studland-beach/

Dunwich Heath and Beach, Suffolk

Woolacombe beach, Devon This beautiful three mile stretch of coastline has plenty of things to see and do for all. Rolling hills provide a wonderful backdrop to a beach where many come to swim and surf on sunny days. In the summer holidays you’ll find National Trust beach rangers on hand to show little ones how to go on rock pool safaris and build the best sandcastles for miles around. Baggy Point and Morte Point – also known as the ‘stegosaurus back’ – are both perfect for rock scrambling. If it’s a walk that you prefer, the South West coastal path will take you on a journey around the enticing coves and distinctive slate cliffs that the area is so well known for.

Tucked away on the Suffolk coast, the peaceful, colourful heath-land of the Dunwich Heath Nature Reserve, with its shingle and sand beach, is rich with wildlife and ideal for birdwatchers, nature lovers, walkers, and families looking for a great day out. Head to the shingle beach for a walk along the shoreline where you can witness the constantly changing coastline. Late summer sees a patchwork of purple and yellow heather come into full bloom, making it an unmissable experience. The beach is rich in wildlife with Dartford warblers, nightjars, and woodlark ready to spot. There’s plenty of activities to get involved with as well, especially for families wanting to keep the kids entertained, including geocache trails, scavenger hunts and flying kites in the summer sunshine.

Best Beach Activities: • Skim a stone • Jump over waves • Go stargazing • Fly a kite

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunwich-heathand-beach/

Brancaster and Blakeney, North Norfolk Coast With four miles of golden sand, Brancaster beach is the perfect place for a family day out. Famous for its mussels, the fishing village of Brancaster Staithe lies on the shores of the beautiful north Norfolk coast.

The Staithe offers a great place to start exploring the coast, and you can launch a boat and sail in the sheltered waters of Scolt Head Island. If you continue a little further along the coast you can enjoy miles of golden sand for long or short walks, find great places for building sandcastles and designated areas for power kiting sports. There’s so many things to see and explore at Blakeney; crabbing is a must for all ages or you can take time out and relax with a view at Blakeney Point. The area is home to a colony of common and grey seals that can be seen most of the year from any of the seal boat trips that leave from Morston Quay.

Best Beach Activities: • Catch a crab • Make a mud pie • Canoe down a river • Skim a stone

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/brancaster-estate/ www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blakeney/

Birling Gap, East Sussex Birling Gap is part of the world famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline on the south coast. One minute you can be walking on ancient

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summer fun downland, the next you could be rock pooling below towering cliffs of chalk.

Spectacular, unspoilt views of the sea can be seen for miles and the beach below is ideal for seaside picnics and exploring the craggy rocks.

The whole family can hunt for fossils on the beach and this is a great time of year to uncover hidden treasures. With a south-west-facing beach, Birling Gap is also one of the best spots to surf in the South East.

If you’re feeling a bit peckish after a day on the sands, head to the relaxed cliff top cafe where there’s delicious lunches, outdoor seating and uninterrupted sea views.

Best Beach Activities: • Hunt for fossils and bones • Check out the crazy creatures in a rock pool • Fly a kite • Skim a stone

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-theseven-sisters/

side scenery around. It has a firm sandy beach – perfect for sandcastle building, and the tide doesn’t go out too far so it’s great for swimming. It isn’t too crowded either, and there are excellent views towards the Needles and Dorset beyond. This family friendly beach also has a section open for dog walkers all year round, making it a great trip out for a walk, whilst also offering a brilliant space for surfing and swimming. The bay is one of the best places on 50 Things Island to follow in the footsteps of dinosaurs.

Look carefully and you can find many dinosaur footcasts on the sandy beach.

Nodes Point near St Helens Duver is an excellent place for exploring the hidden wildlife in rock pools and if you look carefully see what you can discover in the pools once the tide’s gone out.

adrenaline-fuelled session. Barafundle is regularly voted among the top beaches in the world and is a great place to go rock pooling, paddling and building sandcastles. This golden horseshoe backed by gorse-flecked dunes and woodland is accessible only via steep steps in the limestone cliffs on either side and is a great place for a swim.

Freshwater West, six miles west of the estate, is a great surf beach and Stackpole Quay is the perfect place to launch your kayak or to try some coasteering along the rocky coastline.

Best Beach Activities: • Camp out in the wild • Check out the crazy creatures in a rock pool • Catch a crab • Go on a barefoot walk

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stackpole/

Best Beach Activities: • Check out the crazy creatures in a rock pool • Fly a kite • Jump over waves • Go swimming in the sea

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/isleofwight

Rhossili and South Gower Coast, Swansea

Isle of Wight, Hampshire Welcome to the 50 Things Island just a 30 minute ferry ride away from the mainland, where you can tick off lots of adventures in the great outdoors.

Compton Bay is a spectacular spot along the Isle of Wight coastline showcasing some of the best beach

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Stackpole, Pembrokeshire Stackpole has two fabulous beaches, Barafundle and Broadhaven South.

This summer, get up close and personal with the Pembrokeshire coast with an

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With some of the most splendid views on the Welsh coast, you won’t want to miss this magnificent three mile long beach. If you stand at Rhossili Down, you can see not only the peninsula, but the coast of west Wales and the north Devon coast visible on the horizon. With its breathtaking clifftops, and wonderful bay, it’s a perfect place to spend summer days with all your friends and family. To stretch the legs, you can take the level walk

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summer fun from the National Trust shop and Visitor Centre along the cliff top to the Old Coastguard Lookout where they would have kept watch for ships in trouble on the high seas. This beautiful site is perfect for all kinds of activities, from walks and swimming to surfing and kite-flying.

conditions as well. Low Newton by the sea has a natural rock harbour and golden beach sheltered from the tides by an offshore reef – it’s an excellent place for marine wildlife and spotting birds.

Best Beach Activities: • Go bird watching • Fly a kite • Catch a fish with a net • Jump over waves

Best Beach Activities: • Jumping over waves • Catch a fish with a net • Go swimming in the sea • Try rock climbing

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ rhossili-and-south-gower-coast/

Murlough National Nature Reserve, County Down The view from Murlough Beach is one of an impressive shingle beach and four miles of magnificent strand set against the backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. Out to sea, stretching from the Mournes to St. John’s Point lighthouse is Dundrum Bay; even the Isle of Man can be seen on a clear day.

For families with young children looking for fun things to do, Murlough National Nature Reserve is a must. There’s a network of paths and boardwalks through the dunes, woodland and heath from where you will see lots of butterflies and wild flowers. As well as playing with buckets and spades, building sandcastles and burying themselves in the sand, kids can now grab an activity tracker pack.

Hunt for treasure on the beach, find your way with a map and compass, or go bird watching.

If you look across the beach to Ballykinler at low tide you are almost guaranteed a view of common and grey seals during the summer months.

You may even be lucky enough to see a seal pup!

Best Beach Activities: • Make a mud pie • Fly a kite • Go stargazing • Go on a barefoot walk

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/murlough/

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/embleton-andnewton-links/ Ravenscar, Yorkshire Coast Ravenscar can be found high on the cliffs of the North Yorkshire coast between Scarborough and Whitby.

Sitting looking out over Robin Hoods Bay can also bring the sight of porpoise and dolphin pods hunting fish close to the shore line and many sea birds will be spotted over the water. Go on a really long bike ride with coastal views, get back in touch with nature and discover some unexpected hidden history too. The Yorkshire Coast is famous for its fossils. It’s not too hard to find fossil remains on Ravenscar beach and all the way along the coast.

Best Beach Activities: • Hunt for bugs • Hunt for fossils and bones • Check out the crazy creatures in a rock pool • Go on a really long bike ride

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/yorkshire-coast/

Embleton and Newton Links, Northumberland Coast Embleton Bay is a magnificent stretch of sand and dunes between Low Newton and the majestic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, perfect for an easy wander with the family. The fourteenth-century ruins dominate the horizon, but you will also find a whole variety of wildflowers living amongst the dunes. With the backdrop of the Castle, this fine sandy beach is one of the most spectacular in England.

It’s popular for paddling, building sandcastles and has some great surf

Formby, Liverpool The sweeping sands of Formby beach entice people from miles around to come and enjoy a bracing day out.

With plenty of space for everyone, families can run and play to their hearts content. Spectacular sky-scapes can be glimpsed at sunset and if you stand on top of the sand dunes the beach stretches as far as the eye can see. The glorious sandy beaches of Formby are perfect for family picnics, coastal walks, wave jumping, kite flying or just lazy days at the beach.

A closer look reveals thickets of pine woodland which are home to cherished local celebrities, the red squirrels.

Check out the signage to find out about the surprising history of the beach from prehistoric footprints to asparagus farming. A coffee cart and ice cream van are on site most days so why not enjoy a tasty treat with the sand between your toes.

Best Beach Activities: • Jump over waves • Fly a kite • Create some wild art • Find a Geocache

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/formby/ Find out more and complete your coastal adventure here: www.50things.org.uk

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summer fun Carole Ann Rice is one of the UK’s leading life coaches and has run her own coaching practice for 12 years. She is author of two books Find Your Dream Job and Start Your Dream Business and has her own column Happy Mondays each week in the Daily Express. Her coaching academy www.purecoachingacademy.com is training people to be become coaches from all over the world.

• I f you don’t know the family well your child is staying with then use your parent grapevine to find out more about them – trust what others say

r e m m TheeSpuover Sle vival Sur de Gui

• T ell the parents your child is staying with what your own boundaries are – i.e. What certificate films you allow, not too many sweets/ fizzy drinks, bed times etc

hor

ut and a coach e e f i l by Ric e Ann Carol

As the long summer holidays stretch ahead you could be thinking of the myriad of ways in which you can spend the days cheaply and cheerfully as a family. Summer days drifting away but, oh, those summer nights. Am I the only mother who groans when she hears the dreaded plea – ‘Mum, can I go on a sleepover?’?

Along with other Trans-Atlantic exports such as High School Musical, trick or treating and Prom Night parties complete with limos, the sleepover is a social phenomenon that has got lost in translation. Images of a giggling sorority of gleeful tweens and teens; all bunny slippers, face packs and pillow fights pale into the clear light of day as sleepdeprived, ratty-mooded horrors cast a pall over your family weekend.

Not so much the popcorn and gingham cheer of Doris Day in the Pajama Game but more Night of the Living Dead with the cast of Twilight.

Not only are they becoming an almost weekly request which waves goodbye to precious sleep, family plans and homework but they’ve become a hot bed of social insecurity that your child dare not miss for fear of exclusion. Do I want to be the only parent saying no and risk alienating my child from her peer group?

The fall out of refusal is equally painful as the dread of saying yes and dealing

with the consequences of no sleep until dawn and kids ratty, tearful and dismal the next day.

When children are at primary school you at least stand a chance of knowing the parents well enough to trust your offspring are in safe hands due to school gate networking and friend-building. However there is no guarantee there isn’t a deadbeat, sofa-bound dad in the background chugging beer that you haven’t yet met.

But it’s a risk you have to take.

But come secondary school it is as much as you can do to stop yourself doing a check-up of the home, run a CRB check on the father and uncles and ask around about the psycho older brothers in the loft conversion just waiting to play ‘truth or dare’ with your pre-pubescent cherubs.

One can’t be too vigilant and less liberal.

There are a few guidelines however one can stick to in order to ensure safety for your children and peace of mind for you.

Remember to trust your instinct and if ever in doubt err on the side of caution.

WIN tickets to the completely new Shrek’s Adventure! London Opening 1st July 2015 To celebrate the opening of the UK’s newest and funniest attraction on 1st July we are offering a family the chance to take a magical DreamWorks Tour at the ALL NEW Shrek’s Adventure! London, a prize

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• Don’t allow too many sleepovers in one week – your child will find this very tiring and disorientating • B e specific about when you will collect your child in the morning so you don’t walk in on a snoozing dorm come mid-day which is going to take hours to remove your child from • B e clear with the sleepover parent what your guidelines are for letting your child out to the park/ shops etc when you are not there • D on’t be railroaded – if you child asks you out of the blue to go on a sleepover do give yourself time to consider.

• D on’t be afraid to say no – better safe than sorry • M anage your expectations – it’s highly unlikely young teens will get much sleep, wash teeth or eat healthily – this is all part of the fun.

Allow for a degree of occasional toxicity.

• T he sleepover is a once in a while treat – not a nightly norm

www.realcoachingco.com

worth nearly £100.

Shrek’s Adventure! London will open 1st July 2015 on London’s South Bank, next to the Coca-Cola London Eye. Book NOW to avoid ogre-sized disappointment at www. shreksadventure.com.

To enter send your details and why you would like to visit Shrek to editor@ familieseast.co.uk by 15th August 2015.

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summer fun

Have endless fun in London with a Merlin Annual Pass With a Merlin Annual Pass, you and your family can enjoy 12 months packed with adventure in 31 Magical Worlds across the UK – including London’s most famous attractions and fantastical theme parks just a short trip away.

These worlds are bursting with astonishing sights, spectacular thrills and wondrous contraptions that will fill your family with utter delight. They have rollercoasters and water rides, famous stars and infamous rogues, sensational sea creatures and awesomely exotic animals. They include Madame Tussauds, the Dungeons, Coca-Cola London Eye, Legoland Windsor Resort, Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Thorpe Park Resort, Sea Life London Aquarium. They’ll make you giggle with joy, gasp with surprise and gawp in disbelief.

And they promise endless fun for any age.

To experience the magic, simply unleash your imagination and decide where to start. Maybe dive down into the murky ocean depths to see incredible sea creatures and go eyeball to eyeball

with our deadly sharks. Or go on safari to see exotic animals of all shapes and sizes.

Alternatively, sneak up next to your favourite superstar – either from this world or a galaxy far, far away – and capture a moment you’ll remember forever. Venture down into our dark, dank Dungeons and tiptoe around truly terrifying villains, or see your children take charge behind the wheel in LEGO® City Driving School.

Then again, why stick to the roads when you can take to the air? The incredible, 360° views from Coca-Cola London Eye offer timeless fun for everyone. And if you prefer fun that’s seriously fast, we have rollercoasters – lots of rollercoasters. Climbing like a rocket, dropping like a stone, looping the loop, backwards and forwards, you’ll be screaming like a banshee – and coming back for more.

To unlock all these worlds for 12 sensational months, simply buy a Merlin Annual Pass from just £129pp at any one of our 31 worlds, online at www.merlinannualpass.co.uk or over the phone on 08444 774444. Then unleash your inner wizard, enjoy amazing adventures and experience a year of incredible, astonishing, extraordinary fun!

BUY YOURS NOW To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

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summer fun

Light Bites in the Summer Sun We’ve teamed up with Annabel Karmel to share the ultimate picnic recipes. From light bites to fantastic finger foods, we’ve got your hamper inspiration sorted with these delicious and nutritious lunches, guaranteed to tempt even the fussiest of toddlers.

Puff Pastry Pizzas

Exotic Fruit, White Chocolate and Cereal Cupcakes

1 x 375g packet ready rolled puff pastry 2 tbsp red pesto 2 tbsp passata 2 tbsp sweetcorn 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped 100g cherry tomatoes, sliced 100g Mozzarella, sliced 50g Cheddar cheese, grated Method 1. Pre heat the oven to 220oC/425oF. Line a baking sheet with non-stick paper.

2. Roll out the pastry on a board so it is around 2mm thick. Cut out 6 rounds using a 120cm round cutter. Arrange on the lined baking sheet. Prick the bases with a fork.

3. Mix the passata and pesto together and spread over the bases leaving a border around the edges.

4. Top with sweetcorn, basil and tomatoes and sprinkle over the cheeses.

5. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes on a lined baking sheet until golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and serve.

150g porridge oats 50g crispy rice 100g mixed exotic dried fruits, e.g. papaya, mango, pineapple, chopped 60g pecan nuts, chopped 100g unsalted butter 125g golden syrup 85g white chocolate, broken into pieces Method 1. In a bowl combine the oats, crispy rice, chopped exotic fruits and nuts.

2. Put the butter, golden syrup and white chocolate into a saucepan and heat gently until melted.

3. Stir the mixture into the dry ingredients until they are well coated.

4. Line a muffin tray with 12 paper cases and divide the mixture between them, pressing down lightly. Store in the fridge.

Makes 12 cupcakes

Makes 6 portions

For more recipe inspiration download Annabel’s Essential Guide to Feeding Your Baby & Toddler app. Access more than 220 delicious recipes, as well as a host of features to keep your family on track and enjoying meal times.

Download the new version from the App Store now or visit www.annabelkarmel.com

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Lara’s Chicken Wraps 2 chicken breast fillets Sunflower oil, for cooking 4 large tortillas 4 tbsp mayonnaise A handful of shredded iceberg lettuce, washed 4 tomatoes, washed and cut into strips Salt and pepper Marinade: 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 1 garlic clove, lightly crushed 1 tbsp dark soy sauce 1 tbsp dark clear honey ½ tbsp brown sugar 2 tbsp sunflower oil Method 1. Score the chicken with a sharp knife.

Mix together all of the ingredients for the marinade and marinate the chicken for about 20 minutes.

2. Brush a griddle pan with oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade and, when the griddle is hot, cook the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Cut the chicken into strips and set aside.

3. Spread each tortilla with 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise and arrange the chicken strips in a line down one side of the tortilla, about 4cm from the edge of the tortilla.

4. Place the shredded lettuce and strips of tomato in lines beside the chicken. Roll up and cut each tortilla in half and wrap in foil.

Makes 4 wraps

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summer fun Summer is a wonderful time to share good food. These favourite summer time recipes are quick and easy; meaning more time to get outside and enjoy the weather and spend time with your family.

Yummy Salmon and Rice Salad 285g salmon fillets, cut into chunks 400ml fish stock a knob of butter 200g long grain rice 200g frozen peas 1 red pepper, washed, deseeded and diced 1⁄2 cucumber, peeled and diced 1 small bunch spring onions, sliced 2 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley 2 tbsp chopped dill 2 tbsp chopped chives 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar 2 tsp runny honey salt and pepper Method 1. Put the salmon into a saucepan with the fish stock and butter, and poach over a gentle heat for about 7 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

2. Alternatively, place the salmon in a microwave-proof dish and sprinkle with lemon juice. Cover the dish with clingfilm and pierce several times. Cook the salmon on High for about 2 minutes, or until it flakes easily.

Allow to cool.

3. Cook the rice following the packet instructions, adding the peas for the last 4 minutes of the cooking time. Drain and refresh in cold water.

4. Put the remaining ingredients into a large bowl. Add the rice and peas, then flake in the cold salmon. Season well, then cover and chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Avoid the summer learning slide and save £50 with Explore Learning maths and English tuition this July!

The school holidays are almost here, and we’re sure learning will be the last thing on a child’s mind. However, research has revealed that two thirds of children fall behind in their studies over the holidays meaning that when they finally go back to school, many children are lacking in confidence and unable to recall things they learnt in the previous school year.

Carey Ann Dodah, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning says: ‘It’s surprising how much children’s academic ability slips over the summer holidays and it seems such a waste of all the time and effort they have

put in over the previous year. Of course, we’re not saying it should all be work, work, work – but just a couple of hours a week to keep you topped up can make the world of difference when September comes around.’

July is the most popular time of the year for families to join Explore Learning, as parents across the country look for an engaging way to keep their children’s brains active over the long summer break.

Also, families joining in July will save £50 registration fee at participating centres, so now is a great time to join if you haven’t already!

Explore Learning has maths and English tuition centres across the UK – try us for free to find out how your family can benefit! To book your trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call your local centre.

Makes 4 portions

0845 644 5452

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book corner

Room

Reading

Ed’s

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Summer book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online and from good bookstores.

See these reviews, download the specially written reading activities for these books and buy the books online at www.EdontheWeb.com. Have fun reading!

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

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Nixie the Bad, Bad Fairy

by Cas Lester (Oxford £5.99)

Ed says: ‘Meet Nixie – a bad but delightful fairy.

Nixie’s magic wand is as naughty as she is and is forever getting her into trouble, as if she needed any help! The fairies are preparing for the Blossom Ball, putting up the party tent, icing fairy cakes and stringing fairy lights on the trees. But with Nixie around, tidying the petals turns into a mini tornado and making a magic potion ends up with magical mayhem. Hopefully it will be all right on the night.

‘This is a super book in an exciting new series. It features a fun-loving character whose mischief will be enjoyed by girls and boys alike.’

Superhero School: Alien Attack!

by Alan MacDonald (Bloomsbury £4.99)

Ed says:

‘Stan and his friends at Mighty High School are on an exciting school trip to a Superhero Convention.

Stan is hoping to meet Captain Courageous but all he manages to do is buy some bionic bubblegum. When Miles sees a spaceship

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landing in the car park he can’t resist going to meet the aliens but in so doing complicates things for his friends. Will they be able to rescue him from the aliens, will the bionic bubblegum prove to have been a good buy and will they finally meet Captain Courageous?

‘This is a very funny book that is a real page-turner. It has fantastic illustrations throughout that complement the story brilliantly.’

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

7+

The Accidental Prime Minister

by Tom McLaughlin (Oxford £6.99)

Ed says: ‘When Joe’s mum announces they are closing the park Joe realises it means her job is finished. But when he tells his mum he’ll think of something she doesn’t realise where it will all lead. Joe accidentally becomes Prime Minister. He doesn’t know how he is going to run the country – all he knows is he wants laughter instead of grumpiness and a rollercoaster in Downing Street.

All goes well until his nasty deputy plots his downfall. How will Joe deal with this? And will he be able to get the Queen on his side?

‘This is a hilarious tale that is actionpacked from start to finish. It will entertain and delight young – and not so young – readers.’

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Theodore Boone: The Fugitive

by John Grisham (Hodder £12.99)

Ed says: ‘Theo is on a school trip to Washington DC with his class mates, seeing the sights and learning about the capital city of the US. When he catches sight of the most wanted man in the history of his home town he doesn’t realise how deep he could be drawn into the manhunt with the FBI and the subsequent court case.

Will Theo find himself in more danger than ever before and will the fugitive be brought to justice?

‘Here is another exciting and fascinating story featuring the young would-be lawyer, Theodore Boone.

This fast-moving legal drama is a brilliant read. Look out for the other books in this fantastic series.’

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Ed’s Reading Room is at www.

EdontheWeb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating.

See Maggie’s latest ebooks at www.

WalkWalk.co.uk.

You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

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clubs and classes

Clubs & Classes In this section we feature the very best clubs and classes in East London. This season there is a wealth of great clubs and classes to attend. If you would like your class to feature in this section please call 020 8202 2034.

Art & Craft LEE VALLEY PARK visitleevalley.org.uk Wild Family Fun August 4, 11, 18, 25 Explore nature with creative activities.

Meet at Lee Valley Ice Centre, E10 7QL. 08456 770 600. Booking required.

5-12 years. Cost £1 per child.

Learning & tuition EXPLORE LEARNING Hornchurch 01708 629 620 Lakeside 01708 869 650 Romford 01708 767 819 Woodford Green 020 8090 6716 explorelearning.co.uk Tuition Centres Tailored courses to support children of all abilities to become confident and engaged learners, providing Maths, English and 11+ tuition. Children attend centres twice a week on a drop-in basis.

Centres are open seven days a week.

5-14 years.

Shouldn’t you be seen in the Number 1 magazine for families and young people in East London?

Contact adverts@familieseast.co.uk.

FLEET TUTORS 0845 644 5452 fleet-tutors.co.uk Tuition Help students reach their potential with private home tutoring.

LA PETITE ÉCOLE DES CROCODILES Round Chapel, Powerscroft Road, Hackney E5 OPU 07749 973 791 info@les-crocodiles.org French French classes for francophone children 0-14 years on Tuesdays & Wednesdays; French classes for English speaking children on Mondays; Drama in French for 8+ years on Saturdays; French library twice monthly and Little French Film Festival. Play, songs and stories for young children, writing, grammar, spelling, reading and drama classes for older children.

READING EGGS readingeggs.co.uk Online Programme Comprehensive range of online reading

lessons and eBooks to teach children literacy skills and to make learning phonics and basic reading skills fun.

Hundreds of reading lessons and activities to explore. 3-13 years.

Performing arts

PERFORM Barbican, Chigwell, Chingford, Epping, Hackney, Loughton, Stoke Newington, Victoria Park, Walthamstow, Wanstead, Woodford Green 0845 400 4000 perform.org.uk enquiries@perform.org.uk

Ilford, Edmonton 020 8447 4530 jigsaw-arts.co.uk

Ice Queen Enchanting holiday drama courses based on the magical Ice Queen story at selected venues. 4-7 years. Cost is £153 with an exclusive 10% discount for Families Magazine readers, 25% discount for siblings and reductions for groups.

Classes Weekend dance, drama and singing classes with shows and performances.

Two week trial available. 3-18 years.

Stoke Newington August 10-14 Abney Public Halls, 73a Stoke Newington Church Street, N16 OAS.

JIGSAW PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL

Lea Valley Park: Wild Family Fun

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

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clubs and classes

Collins Atlas Collins Picture Atlas and Collins Children’s World Map are the perfect way to introduce children to the countries of the world and their colourful cultures.

Beautiful illustrations and fun, fascinating facts take children on a journey of discovery, ideal for home learning whilst developing essential reading skills.

For a chance to win send us your details, and tell us where in the world you would like to go and why! Email us at editor@ familieseast.co.uk.

Perform – The Ice Queen

Islington August 17-21 St James Church Hall, 11 Prebend Street, N1 8PF.

THE ANNA FIORENTINI THEATRE & FILM SCHOOL Based in North London, Hackney, Bethnal Green, Docklands and Lewisham 020 7682 1403 annafiorentini.com Theatre & Film School Drama, singing, dance, film, set

and costume design with shows, competitions, annual Oscar Night and holiday schools. Students get the chance to be considered for professional work via the agency, Lamda qualifications and master classes in stagecraft, hair and makeup and presenting. Classes on Saturdays in North London and Hackney, Tuesdays in Bethnal Green, Wednesdays in Docklands and Thursdays in Lewisham. Free taster days – check online for dates and reserve a place. 4-18 years/Fiorentini Weenies for 3-6 years.

YOUNG & TALENTED Oxford House, Bethnal Green, E2 6HG and Broadway Theatre, Barking, IG11 7LS 020 8556 5348 youngandtalented.co.uk Classes Acting, singing and dancing classes on Saturdays with theatre productions. 3-16 years in Bethnal Green and 5-19 years in Barking.

Sports FIT FOR SPORT 0845 456 3233 fitforsport.co.uk Looney Tunes Summer Activity Camps Fun sports, energetic games and activities. Bookings for Summer Camps.

3-12 years.

TRY TIME KID’S RUGBY Victoria Park, Stratford Dulwich, St Albans, Richmond, Wandsworth 01252 794150 trytimekidsrugby.com sales@trytimekidsrugby.com Classes Rugby based play sessions to develop

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social, mental and physical skills.

Experienced and enthusiastic coaches.

Free trial class. 2-7 years.

Theatre workshops UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, London SE1 2HZ ( London Bridge) 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com Unicorn Play Club Held on Saturdays with free drop-in activities and special events themed around the shows. 4+ years.

Play in a Week July 20-31 Intensive drama courses. Work with professionals to create an original performance on the stage. Invite family and friends to the final day performance.

7-14 years. Cost £450.

Up Club Ice Ice Babies: Musical Play Sessions September 5, 12 Play time and music after the performance. Bring a soft toy animal.

2-5 years. Cost £4 per child.

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for animal tracks, to things that are a little more scientific such as growing crystals, making a lava lamp or building a balloon rocket, Catherine Cox has put together a fantastic collection of vintage past times.

THE THREE LITTLE PIGS 5 August-6 September Palace Theatre, Cambridge Circus, Shaftsbury Avenue W1D 7DY 0844 482 9676 www.nimaxtheatres.com/palace-theatre He can huff and puff until the cows come home, but will the Big Bad Wolf get the better of the three little superstar piglets in this brand new retelling of the classic story? Full of catchy songs, jokes and japes for little ones and parents alike, this endearing musical will leave you squealing with glee and howling with laughter. For ages 3+. May not be suitable for vegetarians. Tickets from £15.

Go-Carts, Catapults & Midnight Feats 101 Vintage Pastimes for Modern Kids

By Catherine Cox June 2015, £20 Paperback Original

Go Karts & Catapults The summer and the school holidays are both fast approaching, which means parents, or grandparents, have six long weeks to fill with entertainment and activities.

What better way to keep the kids entertained, active, and (most importantly) outdoors, than a throwback to the past times of our own youth, with added extras that even we would have loved to try when we were younger!

From older classics such as building a tee-pee, playing pooh sticks or searching

Vintage pastimes and traditional activities to keep bored children amused and away from their computers.

• N one of the activities require complex equipment, batteries, computers or access to the internet • A mixture of frivolous fun and educational activities; • Illustrated with over 100 original line drawings perfect for colouring in.

To enter please send your details and tell us what your favourite summer activity is to editor@familieseast.co.uk by 15th August 2015.

Shouldn’t you be seen in the No.1 magazine for families and young people in East London?

Contact: adverts@familieseast.co.uk.

Fun at the Unicorn Theatre

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

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places to go summer days out

Places To Go

Your guide to East London Family Entertainment

Welcome to our great seasonal guide of all the very best places for you to visit. We hope you enjoy all your days out. To advertise in this section call 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk.

Summer Days Out CHINGFORD BIG WEEKENDER Ridgeway Park, Old Church Road, E4 6RS (Chingford Station) August 15, 16 Music concert on Saturday and family events on Sunday. Free event.

COLLIER ROW CARNIVAL havering.gov.uk August 2 Parades through the town centre.

Check date and times online.

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY Gallery Road, SE21 7AD (North Dulwich station) 020 8693 5254 dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk Art in the Garden August 5, 12 19, 26 Drop in sessions on particular themes.

All ages. Admission £5/children free.

HAVERING SHOW Harrow Lodge Park, Hornchurch, RM11 1JU havering.gov.uk August 30, 31 Community activities and live bands.

Free entry.

LEE VALLEY PARK visitleevalley.org.uk Community Haystacks August 1, 2 Walthamstow Marshes, Lee Bridge Road, E10 7QL. Celebrate Lammas Day with harvest fun and a Ranger Ramble walk.

Bring a picnic. All ages. No booking required. Free Beside the Seaside August 12 Lee Valley Park Farms, Essex EN9 2EF. 01992 892 781 Punch and Judy shows, sand castle competitions and meet the friendly farmyard residents. Entry £9.50/£8.50/ under 2s free.

Love the Lea Festival August 23

Horseshoe Thicket, Walthamstow Marshes – picnic area opposite Springfield Park, E5 9BL. Music, craft and river themed activities. All ages. Free.

LEYTONSTONE BIG WEEKENDER Cathal Green and Church Lane September 12, 13 Arts, culture, food and live entertainment.

Family friendly event. Free.

LOVE PARKS WEEK loveparks.org.uk July 24-August 2 Raising awareness of the importance of parks and green spaces.

MORE LONDON FREE FESTIVAL The Scoop, More London Riverside, London SE1 ( London Bridge) morelondon.com June to September Free events including music, sports screenings, theatre and films.

PLAY DAY playday.org.uk August 5 The first Wednesday in August is allocated as the national day to celebrate children’s right to play. Organised local community events.

ROYAL COLLEGE OF MUSIC Prince Consort Road London SW7 2BS ( South Kensington) 020 7591 4314 (box office) rcm.ac.uk Igniting Sparks August 10 Learn about music and work with musicians. Drop-off event for children only. 6-9 years. Cost £12.

Free or Subsidised Places Free tickets for RCM Sparks events are offered to young people and families subject to eligibility. Check online for listed criteria.

ROYAL GREENWICH TALL SHIPS REGATTA greenwich.co.uk August 25-31 Festival fun in Greenwich to see and sail on Tall Ships on the Thames.

STEPNEY CITY FARM Stepney Way, E1 3DG ( Stepney Green) 020 7790 8204 stepneycityfarm.org Furry Tales July 14, 21, 28 Specifically for those over 60 years old, however bring an older family relative to take part in therapeutic nature-based and animal assisted sessions. Book in advance. Free.

Welfare Weekends – Hen Ho Down July 18, 19 Farm Club July 30, August 6, 13, 20, 27 Popular holiday activities at the farm.

Early booking recommended. £3 per session.

Crafty Saturdays August 1, September 5 Themed craft activities.

Glorious Stepney Games August 22, 23

Discover Children’s Story Centre

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cinema • museums • exhibitions places to go Harvest Festival September 12, 13 Celebrate vegetables and learn why we should eat less meat.

SUTTON HOUSE NATIONAL TRUST 2 & 4 Homerton High St, Hackney E9 6JQ ( Bethnal Green) 020 8986 2264 nationaltrust.org.uk/suttonhouse Music Hall Mayhem July 26 Create a special East End Music Hall performance and dress up and star in an East End poster in the photo booth. Free.

Breaker’s Yard August 1-31 Visit the Breaker’s Yard garden with bouncy tyres, sand pit and sand castle, magical caravan and a big greenhouse bus. Entrance £3.90/£1.10/family £7.60.

WALTHAMSTOW GARDEN PARTY Lloyd Park, Forest Road, E17 5JW ( Walthamstow Central) July 18, 19 Creative and cultural community event with music, theatre, food, crafts and family activities. Presented by the Barbican and Create. Free entry.

Cinema BARBICAN CENTRE Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS ( Barbican) 020 7638 4141 barbican.org.uk/film/families Framed Film Club: Brave (PG) July 18

CANARY WHARF canarywharf.com Summer Screens Until August 18 Sports, culture and live opera screenings outdoors. Bring a picnic. Unreserved limited seating. Free.

THE LUNA CINEMA thelunacinema.com Open-air cinema experience.

Back to the Future (PG) July 24, 25 Greenwich Park.

Ghostbusters (12A) July 22 Hall Place, Bexley September 8 Battersea Park

Museum of London

A range of films for families. Soft play area in the foyer for young children.

Cost £4/£7 adult + child/£9 adults.

Museums & Exhibitions BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM Bartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH ( Bank) 020 7601 5545 bankofengland.co.uk Mask-erade July 23-28 Follow a trail, colour in a mask and become an animal of your choice.

Free event.

Flora and Fauna Exhibition on plants and animals connected with the Bank.

BRITISH MUSEUM Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG ( Tottenham Court Road) 020 7323 8000 britishmuseum.org

Jenkins Lane, Barking, IG11 OAD showcasecinemas.co.uk

Samsung Digital Discovery Centre July 18-August 30 Weekend activities for all ages and abilities. Check online for particular workshops and age related events.

Booking may be required for some workshops. Free.

Autism Friendly Screenings July 12: Minions Special screenings on selected dates with low lights, less volume, no trailers, own food and free movement around the cinema is allowed. 10am start.

28 Shad Thames, SE1 2YD ( London Bridge) 020 7940 8783 booking designmuseum.org

SHOWCASE CINEMAS

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, SE1 2HZ ( London Bridge) 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com Summer Cineclub Movies August 3-15

any material – a cereal box or a balloon.

Booking essential. 12-16 years. No experience necessary. Free.

DISCOVER CHILDREN’S STORY CENTRE 383-387 High Street, Stratford, E15 4QZ ( Stratford) 020 8536 5555 discover.org.uk Tickets £5/family (4) £18/Newham Residents £4.50/under 2 years free.

Events are pre-bookable. Closed for maintenance September 7-11. Check information online.

Once There Was…The Wonderful World of Oliver Jeffers Until September 6 Oliver Jeffers’ magical worlds in an interactive family exhibition bringing his picture books to life. 6 years and under.

Boat, Plane – Home Again Until July 23 Short sessions inspired by the exhibition.

0-3 years.

Hot Hot Hot! July 24-September 6 Stories, crafts and activities on the Story Trail and in the Story Garden with a new theme every week.

Splish, Splash, Splosh!

July 24-September 6

Stories and songs with water inspired sessions for 0-3 years. Also fun games in the garden weather permitting for 3-6 years.

The Teddy Bear’s Picnic August 17-23 Join the Story Builder and take part in craft activities. 3+ years.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar August 24-30 Stories, craft, and activities in the Story Garden.

Stuck by Oliver Jeffers August 31-September 6 Story telling and activities in the garden.

FASHION & TEXTILE MUSEUM 83 Bermondsey Street SE1 3XF ( London Bridge) 020 7407 8664 Draw like a designer July 22, August 12 Drawing and design tips. Book in advance. 12-16 years. Cost £10 includes exhibition entry.

GEFFRYE MUSEUM Kingsland Road, E2 8EA ( Old Street or Hoxton Station) 020 7739 9893 geffrye-museum.org.uk

DESIGN MUSEUM

Electro-Dough Workshop July 26 Build a 3D model using modelling dough, LED lights and sounds. 5-11 years. Dropin sessions free with museum entry.

Build Your Own Speakers August 3 Design and build a speaker using almost

‘Brave’ at the Barbican

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

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places to go museums • exhibitions SE10 9NF (DLR Cutty Sark) 020 8858 4422 rmg.co.uk Maritime Museum Pirate Takeover August 1, 2 National Maritime Museum: Dress as a pirate and take part in weekend activities aboard the Cutty Sark and at the National Maritime Museum. Cost includes admission to Cutty Sark £15/£7.50/ under 3s free.

Baby Friendly Tours August 5 National Maritime Museum: Special curator’s tour for parents and babies under 1 year. Booking required. Free.

International Slavery Remembrance Day August 23 National Maritime Museum Day of remembrance of the first successful slave uprising in Haiti in 1791.

All ages Free.

V&A MUSEUM Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL ( South Kensington) 020 7942 2000 vam.ac.uk Design Museum

Shoes: Pleasure or Pain Exhibition on footwear from around the world with over 200 pairs of extreme shoes on show.

Home Front Family Day July 19 WW1 themed activities with games, drama and craft workshops. Free.

Beautiful Butterflies August 5 Art and butterflies workshops. 7-11 years.

Booking required. Cost £30.

school holidays. Check online for current programme. Free.

Sensory Homes and Gardens July 28-August 14 Summer garden-inspired activities.

5-16 years.

Flying Colours August 23 Learn about the characteristics of a butterfly’s wings. Free.

1st Floor Exhibition Area, Redbridge Central Library, Clements Road, Ilford, Essex, IG1 1EA 020 8708 2317 redbridge.gov.uk/museum

Nursery Rhyme Time July 28, 31, August 4, 7, 11, 14 Stories, songs and activities. 2-5 years.

Cambridge Heath Road, E2 9PA ( Bethnal Green) 020 8983 5200 museumofchildhood.org.uk

Bat Festival August 29, 30 All about bats with talks, workshops and activities. Free.

Craft Activities July 28, 29, August 4, 5 Themed activities for 5-12 years. £1.50 per child.

Story Fest July 31 Storytelling workshops and art activities.

All ages. Free drop-in.

THE RAGGED SCHOOL MUSEUM

Craft Activities August 11, 19 Themed activities for 2-5 years. £1.50 per child.

Kites and Flight August 7 Have fun with flying toys. Free drop-in.

MUSEUM OF LONDON-DOCKLANDS West India Quay, E14 4AL (DLR West India Quay) 020 7001 9844 museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands Sailor Sea Shanties August 10 Fun musical session. 1-5 years. Free tickets allocated on arrival.

46-50 Copperfield Road, E3 4RR ( Mile End) 020 8980 6405 raggedschoolmuseum.org.uk Summer Holiday Craft Fun Craft activities on selected dates during

REDBRIDGE MUSEUM

ROYAL MUSEUMS GREENWICH National Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory, The Queens House

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD

Make and Move Day August 14 Dance and movement workshops.

0-12 years. Free.

Performing Play August 21

Support the Suffragettes August 17 Create a Suffragette badge. 5+ years.

Free.

Enter an Edwardian Photograph August 21 Enter the world of photographer Christina Broom and use blue screen technology to dress up and become part of the photograph. Free tickets allocated on arrival.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD ( South Kensington) 020 7942 5000 nhm.ac.uk Sensational Butterflies Ends September 13 Interactive displays of butterflies, moths and caterpillars. Cost £5.90/family £19.80/under 4 years free.

Coral Reefs Ends September 13 A live reef with strange and beautiful specimens. Cost £10/£4.50/family £24.

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William Morris Gallery

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theatres • concerts places to go

Stepney City Farm

Drama and performance from Half Moon Theatre. Free drop-in.

Great Games Day August 28 A day of board games old and new.

Free drop-in.

WHITECHAPEL GALLERY 77-82 Whitechapel High Street, E1 7QX ( Aldgate East) 020 7522 7888 whitechapelgallery.org Family Day July 25 Make colourful capes and take part in an activity trail. Free family day.

WILLIAM MORRIS GALLERY Lloyd Park, Forest Road, E17 4PP (Walthamstow Central station) 020 8496 4390 wmgallery.org.uk Family Days July 25, August 29 Make and do themed activities on the last Saturday of the month. Free.

Summer Holiday Storytelling July 29, August 5, 12, 19, 26 The Canterbury Tales retold for a family audience. 6+ years. Free drop-in sessions.

Theatre Shows & Concerts EPPING FOREST The View, 6 Rangers Road, Chingford, E4 7QH 020 7332 1911 cityoflondon.gov.uk/epping-forest The Sorcerer’s Apprentice August 12 Wanstead Park, The Temple Enclosure.

Open-air theatre production. Cost £14.95/£8.95/£3.95/family £45.

HACKNEY EMPIRE 291 Mare Street, E8 1EJ (Hackney Central station) 020 8985 2424 hackneyempire.co.uk

What the Ladybird Heard September 15-16 Colourful farmyard adventure with songs, puppets and audience participation. £12/ £9 for schools and groups of 10+ receive the 11th ticket free.

KIDS WEEK

Families East highly recommends this

0844 238 5151 kidsweek.co.uk August 1-31 Kids go free to top London shows. During August, children 16 years and under go free when accompanied by an adult paying full price, also tickets for two additional children can be purchased at half price. Online or telephone bookings.

NATIONAL THEATRE South Bank, SE1 9PX ( 020 7452 3000 nationaltheatre.org.uk

Waterloo)

Family Days Monthly activities with ticketed and drop-in workshops suitable for families with children 6-12 years. Cost £5/£3 – maximum three children per adult.

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE Covent Garden, WC2E 9DD ( Covent Garden) 020 7304 4000 roh.org.uk Peter Pan July 24, 25 Family opera. Pre-performance talks with stories and music. 8+ years. Cost £75-£4.

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, SE1 2HZ ( London Bridge) 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com Breaking The Ice September 2-October 4 A show inspired by an unlikely friendship between a wild polar bear and a Husky.

Highly visual show with little or no language so all performances will be suitable for deaf and hard of hearing visitors. Cost for adult + child £15/£10 previews/additional adult £5. School and Nursery tickets £10.

Jousting and Medieval Tournament Week Returns to Arundel Castle Castle in West Sussex to host the longest jousting competition of its kind in the world – 21-26 July The stage is set as, for the 8th year running, Arundel Castle in West Sussex will play host to the world’s longest international jousting competition, as part of its Jousting and Medieval Tournament Week taking place from 21-26 July.

Jousting and Medieval Tournament Week is a spectacle beyond any other seen at Arundel Castle, as challengers from

across the globe converge on the Castle grounds, all hoping to be crowned champion of this illustrious jousting contest.

Four teams comprised of knights from as far afield as the USA will vie for glory, while the individual knights will also compete for induction into the Order of Arundel – the highest honour a knight can receive in the UK. Mounted on beautiful steeds, specifically trained to be ridden in jousts, these knights put on an astounding showcase of strategic and physical prowess throughout the week long tournament.

Further information on the Castle and its 2015 event calendar can be found at www. arundelcastle.org.

To advertise in Families East London please call on 020 8202 2034 or email adverts@familieseast.co.uk

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Don’t forget to say you saw the advert in Families East!

Come and explore

Enjoy our exhibitions, and join in events and activities for all the family

© Andrew Quilty, Oculi for Turquoise Mountain © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Bethnal Green Admission free vam.ac.uk/moc/whatson/

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