Families London SW July-Aug 2019 issue no.288-9

FREE

TAKE M

E HOM

South West

Your local summer guide IN THIS ISSUE

Local child-friendly festivals, outdoor cinemas, days out, camps, workshops, classes, museum activities Issue 288 July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

E

There is a wealth of festivals, outdoor events, fascinating workshops, shows and exhibitions this summer. Book them early and make sure to mention Families! It matters hugely.

contents

Swimway Intensive swimming courses throughout the summer holidays, www.swimway.co.uk

• Families London South West 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 London South West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London South West.

• Designed and Printed by Ridgeway Press, Wilts.

• Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families SW, our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

• Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 Editorial: editor@FamiliesSW.co.uk News: news@FamiliesSW.co.uk Adverts/Artwork: adverts@FamiliesSW.co.uk Events/Diary Dates/What’s On: whatson@FamiliesSW.co.uk Next Issue: September 2019 ISSN 1354-9553. All contents ©Families SW 2019.

July/August 2019 Issue 288 4-5 Families showcases local businesses 8-11 CLUBS & CLASSES Why planning ahead pays Three of the best Clubs & Classes

12-19 SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES From dance to sports, music and days out: there is something for every child!

20-28 PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR NURSERY • Preparing your child to read • Preparing your child to become independent • Transition from home to nursery School • Brain stimulating activities to keep learning alive • Dawmouse Montessori 25 years anniversary

30-31 Child friendly cafes reviewed by local mums

33-39 WHAT’S ON • Diary dates • Child friendly festivals • Outdoor cinemas • Babies and Toddlers • Theatre • Museums and galleries

Spot the reviews from our team of Roving Mums throughout the magazine!

To join our team please email editor@familiesSW.co.uk

Advertise in our next issue.

Contact us on 020 8696 9680 Find us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram FamiliesSWLon

familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 2019 • Families South West 3

Families showcases Nourish App celebrates mothers’ wellbeing

(Really) affordable fitness

Nourish, a new social enterprise, has launched a wellbeing app after successfully raising money through crowd funding. The app is made by mothers, for mothers, to offer every mother a personal support team, help with their mental wellbeing as well as helping them to be the best mothers they can be.

The app consists of over 120 selfcare tools including positive psychology, meditations, yoga poses, mindfulness, breathing exercises through videos, audio and articles. The app also sends supportive and uplifting messages, quotes and reminders to be kind to

SW11 offers child friendly group workouts and personal training sessions designed for busy women throughout the school day and for families at weekends. Classes are as little as £5, there is also a ‘Can’t pay you can still play’ option. Drop in is £5 during the week and £8 at the weekend. Classes in SW18, SW11 and outdoors.

Check out their classes at Doddington and Rollo Roof Garden on Battersea Park Road.

GIVE AWAY! Michelle has 5 weekly passes to give away to Families readers.

First come first served!

The garden is lovingly tended by the residents from the estate, who open it to local people and groups.

Contact Michelle on 07960 112 547 www.fitsw11.com

yourself and nourish your mind.

Nourish is the creation of Sara Campin, a personal development coach and strategy consultant, who admits to struggling with emotional wellbeing many times during motherhood.

Available on Apple’s App Store now and on Android later this year. www.thenourishapp.com

Reviewed by Melissa Reynolds Child-friendly restaurant Tom’s Kitchen

Reshape Tone Detox naturally

Tom's Kitchen is a welcoming, relaxed and child-friendly restaurant in Chelsea. It was a lovely Sunday family activity. We went to St Luke's playground, just a 2 minute walk from the restaurant.

By then, we were all hungry and ready for our Sunday roast. Our little girl chose pasta from the children's menu. The adults feasted on the Sunday sharing roast. It is one of the best roast I've had. The meat was tasty and juicy, the vegetables were cooked perfectly. Our 9 month old enjoyed the Yorkshire pudding.

Some of us just can’t do it: we can’t seem to shift that weight, can’t get into an exercise routine and despite our best intentions, could really improve our diet. If you have tried going to the gym— or perhaps never dared to go—you may be interested in Figurella, a new concept, which we tried for you. It’s not a gym, not a private club and not a nutrition centre but one to one exercises and nutritional advice tailored for your needs alone: this is seriously motivating!

Now here is the really good bit:

tried and tested you only need for you to exercise for 30 minutes, yes THIRTY minutes! The only clever trick is that you exercise in a bubble, see picture, heated at 37degrees. Together with the nutritional advice you’ll receive, begin to see the weight decrease after each visit—it is guaranteed!

It is not cheap but you do get a personalised programme, which is partly why you get motivated and why it works.

Cinnamon Row, Plantation Wharf Battersea www.Figurella.co.uk

They also offer Bottomless Bubbles and children eat free at weekends.

If you're happy to venture East, the Canary Wharf restaurant has a play room. Ideal, for a long leisurely lunch.

27 Cale St, Chelsea, London SW3 3QP https://tomskitchen.co.uk

Reviewed by Irene Bausas who gave it a 5 out of 5!

4 Families South West • July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

local businesses Travel Designers Thanks to the lovely locals who support our High Street, Travel Designers on Balham High Road has been named London’s top travel agency for the second year in a row and the nation’s top weddings & honeymoons agency.

This is amazing for a small independent on Balham High Rd, our heartfelt congratulations!

service." Why don’t you let Travel Designers design your next holiday and enjoy £100 off?

Quote Families.

8 The Boulevard, Balham High Road, SW17 7BW www.traveldesigners.co.uk

Travel Designers was selected for the prestigious titles as part of a power-list of the nation’s best agents by industry bible the Travel Trade Gazette, who said: "The team at Travel Designers impressed our judges with their innovative approach to doing business, their support for their local community, and their tireless focus on personalised customer

READER OFFER! Book your holiday with Travel Designers and enjoy £100 off (plus £50 to Trinity Hospice) Please quote Families

Indian Summer Indian Summer is a colourful lifestyle emporium selling an eclectic mixture of womenswear, homeware, babyware, stationery, cards and gifts.

Established in 2004, and once voted

by Vogue as one of their top 100 secret gems, the famous pink shop is a one stop shop to suit everyone’s needs! Their cotton 'ELLE' Kaftan has been an all time bestseller for many years—they are now offering a new 'Linen Elle' kaftan, in new colourways.

624c Fulham Road SW6 5RS indiansummerlondon.com

Shays Party Days These London-based Event Planners will help you create a truly magical party experience! They specialise in Bespoke Family Events and work towards each client’s individual budget. Whether you are looking for single prop hire, decorations, entertainment, dessert, party bags or just balloon set up, they will work with you to put together a bespoke party to remember.

20% OFF any of their services quoting Families

07908 406 029 www.shayspartydays.co.uk

If you are a local business, would like to feature on these pages and have a Reader offer for our readers, please contact editor@FamiliesSW.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

FamiliesSWLondon

July/August 2019 • Families South West 5

6 Families South West • July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 2019 • Families South West 7

Get children active, conďŹ dent and loving all things sports.

Come and join our physical development multi skills sessions. marnie@sportyminis.com

Trial Classes available via https://hoop.co.uk/go/sportyminis/

8 Families South West • July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

Clubs & Classes

Planning ahead pays

By Andrew Campbell

T

he summer holidays may seem long but they will soon be over. So it’s not too early to start thinking about what after school classes and clubs and weekend activities you may want to book for your child in September.

This is particularly important if you have a child who wants to undertake a number of activities or classes or if you have multiple children. It’s essential to work out a schedule whereby all the activities fit together neatly and you are not left rushing from place to place with too little time to spare.

Planning ahead gives you time to research all the options thoroughly, talk to providers and book into free trials and taster classes that are scheduled early in September, before the term gets into full swing. Testing out your child’s interest in a new activity by taking advantage of free trials and taster classes is definitely recommended if you want to avoid a situation where you pay for an activity in which your child swiftly loses interest.

Without prior planning, it’s easy to find yourself scrabbling around in a hurry at exactly the time

when you are also preparing for your child to go back to school. There’s the chance you’ll miss out on something suitable too, as popular classes fill up quickly.

It’s also easier to get a session time that suits your family’s schedule if you are ready to book early, as well as being able to avoid travelling further to get exactly what you want.

If you want to book your child into an activity with friends, there’s likely to be some co-ordination involved with their parents, so preplanning is beneficial.

Last but not least, you may find you can save money by taking advantage of ‘early bird’ booking discounts offered by many activity providers.

See our many advertisers on our pages and read up some news about some of them here: The Little Gym, children's gym filled with movement, music, learning and laughter

Balham FC Saturday Football School Balham FC is delighted to announce the return of its very popular Saturday Football School for primary school aged boys and girls from reception to Year 6 of all abilities and open to all in or outside the club. All coaches are FA Qualified, first aid trained and Enhanced DBS checked. Founded in 2001 as Balham Blazers, Balham FC is a high achieving, multi-award winning FA Charter Standard Club. Their Under 18 Youth Team play in the FA Youth Cup. 10-11.45 am. The cost is £8 per session to be paid on the day. Term time.

Chestnut Grove Academy jaden@balhamfc.com or call 07908 201762.

Busy Lizzy fitness, baby and pregnancy classes Busy Lizzy is the destination for all your fitness classes, baby classes and pregnancy classes. They really have thought of everything to make it easy for mums and mums to be: • 9 different weekly classes to choose from • No childcare needed—baby comes too • Mix and match your classes to suit you and your family • 2 hour cancellation before a class starts • 14 day cooling off period • Great way to meet like-minded new mums Come and try any of their classes for free. Sign up here: www.busylizzyclaphamandbattersea.co.uk/bee-my-guest or email amy@busylizzy.co.uk

ALLSORTS DRAMA Notting Hill Prep School W11 020 8969 3249 www.allsortsdrama.com Drama workshops Popular and fun drama workshops for ages 4-6 and 7- 11.

The perfect way to keep your child entertained and stimulated in a creative and structured way.

9.30am – 3.30pm. Fee £230

familiesonline.co.uk

FamiliesSWLon

July/August 2019 • Families South West 9

PROMOTION

Challenge. Learn. Grow with Timbernook At the heart of TimberNook programming is the philosophy that children flourish when given the time and space to play in sensory-rich, experiential learning environments. Bringing exploration and nature together results in a truly unique way to reach children at a key point in their development. TimberNook camps have included children reenacting stories out in the woods, digging for dinosaur bones at a mud construction site and creating their own musical instruments from recyclables before going on a musical march!

Time and space At TimberNook children are not rushed and the approach of the supervisor is to step back and empower age appropriate risk taking and deep play. Children are able to work out solutions to problems and develop complex play schemes. They are trusted

office amongst many other things!

that what they have chosen as their activity at that particular moment is exactly what they should be doing. Children can find the time and space to just be kids.

TimberNook experience At the centre stage of a typical camp day is a meaningful play experience that providers set the

10 Families South West • July/August 2019

stage for ahead of time. Children then enter a world where they are free to explore and see where imagination takes them. The environment here acts as a third teacher, where ideas are tested and all the senses challenged.

Campers have constructed obstacle courses for each other, held a tea party, set up an ice cream shop and opened up a post

Transformation TimberNook is full of stories of transformation as children grow in confidence over the week. A four-year-old who never climbed a tree before, on the last day proudly shows off her balancing skills on a giant log. A child who first felt too shy to join a group, after a few days runs wildly with the gang. A child who never stepped away from an older sibling, finds her own friends that she can’t wait to greet the next morning. A child who never played in the mud before shouts: “this is the dirtiest I have been in my life, but I love it!”

Timbernook camps take place on Wimbledon Common www.timbernook.com/provider /timbernook-london/

familiesonline.co.uk

Clubs & Classes

Three of the best Clubs & Classes Choosing an after school club is not easy. There are so many aspects to consider: quality and appeal of the teachers, class sizes, experience of the school, courses offered etc. To help give you an insight into a few companies we thought we’d ask three of the best ones why THEY think they are special! I believe you’ll find this helpful.

Perform All Star Tennis What is unique about your classes?

Perform is a different type of drama school with child development at the heart of everything we do. We use drama-based games, exercises, songs and dances in an imaginative way to develop confidence, concentration, communication and coordination. We are centrally run, not franchised, which results in quality and consistency.

What do you do really well?

We structure our classes around drama, singing and dancing and incorporate a different lifeskill in each session. One week we could be learning how to walk into a room confidently, the next we could be learning about assertiveness or being a good team player. Our fabulous end of term performance for family and friends is a celebration of everything the children have learned.

We focus on a child's enthusiasm and engagement in the activities rather than their precision or ability to learn moves. We provide fun resources to enjoy at home which keep the sessions alive. Classes are kept small ensuring lots of individual attention by our experienced teachers, hand-picked for their warmth and affinity with children.

London Youth Conservatoire What is unique about your school?

Our ethos is to provide a comprehensive music programme for all abilities and ambitions, in a fun and friendly environment. We offer one of the widest choices of orchestras, choirs and ensembles in London, as well musicianship classes and individual lessons in 15 different instruments. We also run a special programme ‘First Steps’ for children aged 4 and 5 integrated in our curriculum.

What do you do really well?

We pride ourselves in creating a lively school with a community feel. We give our students plenty of performance opportunities and we prepare many of them for ABRSM exams, up to grade 8 and beyond.

Most importantly, we ensure our students have fun learning and making music with their friends.

What is a typical comment from a parent?

Fantastic drama classes which inspire oodles of confidence and fun.

(Perform parent)

What is a typical comment from a child or parent?

“The children are always happy to come to London Youth Conservatoire. For us music must be a pleasure and it is the children’s choice to come here.

We enjoy the atmosphere, the fact that they can play with others. They also have opportunities to take part in activities and concerts.”

www.perform.org.uk

www.londonyouthconservatoire.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

FamiliesSWLondon

What is unique about your classes?

Over the years, we can’t quite believe it and definitely don’t look it but we turn 20 this year and are renowned for our fun and creative approach to delivering high quality tennis coaching for everyone. We are still as passionate about realising the potential of everyone as when we started in 1999 and it has been a delight to be part of the Wandsworth Community over the years.

What do you do really well?

We provide a friendly, welcoming and accessible environment to ensure everyone feels comfortable to learn and have fun. Players of all experience are welcome to join us and through our teaching philology will have a great time developing their tennis. It has been said that every child leaves our camps with a smile on their face and we are very proud of that. Our courses are for all abilities and are based on the internationally recognised LTA Mini Tennis Scheme.

What is a typical comment from a child or parent?

“The best week of my holidays!" www.allstartennis.co.uk

July/August 2019 • Families South West 11

Summer Camps Drama & Singing Lessons of Distinction

Children aged 4 - 13 years will be transported through four days of: script learning, singing, dancing, making new friendships and building confidence working towards a final performance.

WEEK 1 - ‘The Greatest Showman’ Monday 29th July – Thursday 1st August Sinclair House School, FULHAM 9.30am – 3.30pm each day WEEK 2 - ‘The Lion King’ Monday 19th – Thursday 22nd August Belleville Primary School, CLAPHAM 9.30am – 3.30pm each day £180.00 per child • Get £10 off before: Friday 12th July! www.littlevoices.org.uk/locations/london-putney/putney-richmond-fulham-theatre-weeks Email: swl@littlevoices.org.uk • Call: 0208 088 0113

familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 2019 • Families South West 13

Summer Holiday Activities part II Time for children to make a song and dance, brush up on tennis skills, have an outdoor adventure, make music, discover computer coding or boost their school skills ahead of the new term.

Simply arm yourselves with part One and Two of this listing, (see part one here http://bit.ly/FSW2019MayJune) and together with our What’s On column get planning!

Please make sure to always tell companies where you saw them, they need to know Families works!

Drama

Camps

Perform Across July and August. 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk.

Battersea, Chelsea, Clapham South, Fulham, Kensington, Putney, Wimbledon Book online at www.perform.org.uk/wizard Sing and dance your way down the yellow brick road in the Wizard of Oz holiday course.

With colourful costumes, uplifting songs and dazzling dancing, your child will have the best fun of the summer as we bring this story to life.

You can banish the familiar school holiday cry of 'I'm bored' with their unique holiday courses.

Three, four and five-day courses. 10am to 3pm each day. 4-10 years.

Star Performing Arts club Tara Theatre, Earlsfield www.starspaclubs.com - 29th July - 2nd August, ages 6-9 The Greatest Showman - 27th - 30th Aug, ages 8+ Harry Potter Summer Holiday Clubs One week of acting, dancing and singing with West End professionals!

Barnes Summer Play School The Barnes Village Nursery, Station Road, SW13 OLF Contact them for an application form and available dates. bspschool@aol.com http://barnessummerplayschool.org.uk 22nd July to 23rd August This small family run school, established in 1989, focuses around the children and keeps them occupied during the summer months. The activity School offers something for every child which is why the children keep on coming back year after year!

Arts and Crafts, music, dance, face painting, games, dressing up and having fun are all held on site. 8 to 14 year olds participate in a wide range of off site activities like trampoline parks, high ropes, museums, boat trips, theme parks, water parks, crazy golf and laser tag. The obvious theme that runs through the school is that all children have enormous fun and value their very precious time at simply being children.

Ofsted registered. 3 to 14 year old

Barracudas

Dance, act and sing with Star Performing Arts

14 Families South West • July/August 2019

For more information or to book, call them on 01480 467 567 or you can book online at www.barracudas.co.uk 22 July to 16th August Looking for something to keep the kids entertained during the summer holidays?

Barracudas are running activity day camps for children between the ages of 4.5 - 14 years at a location near you!

Barracudas

Camp Beaumont 16 fantastic locations across London inc Wimbledon and Putney.

Book now at campbeaumont.co.uk/summer or call 01603 851000 and quote ‘FAMILIES’ From 8th July to 23rd August Summer day camps adventures Bored kids?

Early mornings? Late meeting? Their multiactivity day camps are taking place across 16 locations throughout Greater London and London this summer. They are here to relieve school holiday boredom and make school holiday childcare easy and FUN with a choice of 40 exciting activities from zorbing to biscuit decorating. Happy kids means happy parents – and vice versa. For 3 to 16 year olds.

TimberNook Wimbledon To book: www.timbernook.com TimberNook summer camps provide time for children to explore their surroundings, create, build, design, take risks and dive into their imagination while fostering a love for the great outdoors! 9.30-1.30.

TimberNook London is an Ofsted registered provider and is able to accept childcare vouchers.

22–26 July Storybook.

Ages 4-8 29 July –2 August Barefoot and Buckets.

Ages 4-8 12–15 August Wild Ones – tribal beginnings.

Ages 7-11

familiesonline.co.uk

Your child could do this! With Wandsworth & Lambeth summer camps

Make music with Tin Pan Annie

Wandsworth & Lambeth Summer Camps For full details for enrolment please visit www.wandsworthsummercamp.org and www.lambethsummercamps.org Summer fun is on offer at the Wandsworth Summer Camp at Burntwood School SW17 and the Lambeth Summer Camp Norwood SE27 . These projects are Police managed and run in partnership with the charity, Parallel Youth Enterprise. The activities will include on-site workshop, a day long sports schedule and over 50 off-site trips to sailing, canoeing, trampolining, rock climbing, London Zoo, ice skating, ten pin bowling, London Dungeon and more.

Music & Drama BE.Dance Alderbrook School, Oldridge Road, London, SW12 8PP becca@bedance.co.uk 07545 697352 25 & 26 July BE.Dance Summer Mash-Up is two days of dance, giving our students a taste of different dance styles, including Lyrical, Commercial, Tap and Broadway, culminating in a sharing of work at the end of day two. 9am-4.30pm. For 8-16 years, £100.

Little Voices swl@littlevoices.org.uk, 020 8088 0113 Four days of script learning, singing, dancing, making new friendships and building confidence working towards a final performance. (get £10 off if you book before Friday 12 July.)

familiesonline.co.uk

29 July–1 August The Greatest Showman Summer Camp. 9.30am-3.30pm, £180 per child. At Sinclair House School, Fulham SW6 3LF. 19-22 August The Lion King Summer Camp 9.30am-3.30pm, £180 per child.

Belleville Primary School, Clapham, SW11 6PR

Tin Pan Annie tinpanannie.co.uk St Barnabas’ Church Clapham Common Northside SW4 9SW 22 July-9 August Three weeks of sunny summer fun in the summer holidays when all other classes stop, but your child’s energy and enthusiasm doesn’t. All classes are mixed ages for 6 months-5 years. One class £10 per child, £14 for 2 siblings, £17 for 3 siblings Flexi pass–any 4 classes for the price of 3.

Space at the back of the hall for older siblings to sit quietly with their tablets/books. Classes at 10am and 10.45 every weekday.

Developing skills

Coding for 6-10s Introducing concepts such as logic and loops and using graphics, audio and rules, your child will create an amazing game supported by their friendly coders.

29 July-2 August and 19-23 August LEGO® for 4-10s With a different building theme each day, your child will join their team of energetic engineers as they tackle some challenging construction projects.

The Chocolate Museum 187 Ferndale Road, Brixton, SW9 8BA info@thechocolatemuseum.co.uk www.TheChocolateMuseum.co.uk

Role Models Life Skills Courses Chelsea Academy School SW10 0AB 020 3637 7107 www.rolemodels.me, info@rolemodels.me 22 July-30 August Resilience, Collaboration, Leadership or Creative Problem Solving Courses Delivered through active learning, these courses challenge and empower children. Focusing on either Leadership, Resilience, Collaboration or Problem Solving. Age 8-11, 10am-3pm, £395, sibling discounts.

Spark4Kids Perform Chelsea and Kensington perform.org.uk/CREATE Practical CREATE courses encourage children to express themselves creatively while developing problem-solving and design skills. With structured sessions divided into individual instruction, creative expression and group games and exercises, your child will enjoy a brilliant week stretching their creativity, making new friends and having fun. Four and five-day courses. 10am to 3pm each day.

5-9 August

Chocolate making workshops The workshops involve making truffles, bars and lollipops, using the best quality and very colourful ingredients. Their App ChocoTale gives you also the option to taste 13 different chocolates going through the history of chocolate as a taste and quiz game. Expect to be covered in chocolate and to go home with goodies that you make yourself. Morning holiday workshops or just turn up for afternoon drop-in sessions; more info under the What’s On page. It is great fun and for all ages.

Venues in Dulwich. 020 8090 1444 . www.spark4kids.com 29 July-2 August and 12-16 August Computer Coding Workshops introduce children to computer coding through the medium of games. Available are courses on Minecraft Modding, Roblox Coding, Robotics, Games Design, MicroBit & Arduino coding, Python, HTML/CSS, JavaScript and Unity/C# in a fun, engaging environment. Ages 5-7 years, 8-12 and 13-16.

Continued on p.17

July/August 2019 • Families South West 15

16 Families South West • July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

Barracudas

Yellowbird Education 020 7731 0695 www.yellowbirdeducation.com 8-12, 15-19 July, 27-30 August Holiday Workshops for Children held in locations across London.

Hugely popular educational workshops to develop skills in Creative Writing, Handwriting, Comprehension and Composition, English Exam Prep, Interview Skills and recently added Reasoning workshops. With extensive knowledge of the British school system the workshops offer practice and support to children preparing for 7+, 8+ and 11+ entrance exams whilst aiming to build confidence and enlighten children to the joy of learning.

Suitable for children aged 6-12 (Years 2-6). We anticipate these workshops will book up fast so advise booking early to avoid disappointment.

Sport All Star Tennis Leaders Gardens SW15 1LS, King Georges Park SW18 2GJ, Wandsworth Common SW18 3RT, Tooting Common SW17 8JU 020 8871 4706 www.allstartennis.co.uk/holidaycamps 8 July to end August Summer Holiday Tennis Camps All Star Tennis award-winning camps are back and filling up

quickly, packed with games, drills, tennis technique, match preparation, fun tournaments, trick shots, prizes and team games. Plus, a chance to dress up on the last day! 3-4 years, 3-4pm, 5-7 years, 10am-1pm and 3-5pm, 8-12 years, 10am-3pm, teens 12-4pm.

Little Gym Smugglers Way SW18 1DB 020 8874 6567, wandsworth_fulham@thelittlegym.eu www.wandsworthfulham.thelittlegym.eu

22 July – 30 August Put on your super cape, it’s time for Summer Adventure and Skill Thrill Camps, full of exciting, creative missions and gymnastics drills, to exercise your muscles, imagination and cooperation skills. Schedule a day, or few days, or several few weeks sessions. Age 3-8, 9.30am12.30pm Monday–Friday, and 25pm on Wednesdays, age 6-12 Tuesdays and Thursdays 2-5pm, members £39, non-members £46.

There are also drop in classes available.

London Sports Academy Burntwood School and Tooting Bec Athletics Track Throughout the holidays A really exciting daily timetable of sports for age 3-5, 5-8 and 8-12.

With four different daily sports and specialist coaches for the youngest group, everyone can learn new skills, make great friends and have

Fit in some time for your child to work on his writing skills with Yellowbird Education

familiesonline.co.uk

Camp Beaumont

Camp Bestival See under Festivals page 35

a LOT of fun. NEW for 2019 Hugely popular Laser-Tag sessions now run all day. This summer, they've got new taggers, a HUGE arena and 6 different game modes to keep players on their toes!

Playball London Holiday Camps

Swimming Rocks

Venues in SW London www.playball-london.co.uk 020 8123 2217 22 July–30 August Playball holiday camps are tailored to meet the needs of younger children and are based on the fundamental sport skills for just about any ball sport you can imagine! Water slides, treasure hunts, water fights and a whole host of other exciting activities all make up a morning at a Playball holiday camp. Age 3-9.

SwimWay Balham, East Sheen, Putney, Kensington, Kew Gardens and Wimbledon 020 8871 3972, info@swimway.co.uk www.swimway.co.uk Throughout the Summer Holidays Swimming Courses Intensive courses to improve your child’s swimming technique, on a private or semi-private basis. Courses run for half an hour each day, book early to avoid disappointment. Age 3-9, dates and times dependent on venue.

Venues in Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Fulham, Marylebone and Golders Green 07557 051 904 info@swimmingrocks.co.uk www.swimmingrocks.co.uk 22 July to 30 August Summer Holiday Crash Courses 30 minute lessons over 4 or 5 subsequent days. A wellrespected London swimming tuition provider, offering a fantastic learn to swim programme to babies, children and adults. Recognised locally as a leading swimming tuition company delivering progressive lessons with a strong reputation based on effortless service and a hugely experienced team of swim coaches. Private (1:1) or shared (2:1) lessons alongside small groups for babies. Term Time lessons and crash courses.

Continued on p.18

Little Voices

July/August 2019 • Families South West 17

Summer Holiday Activities Youngstars Multi-Sports and Activity Camp Balham, Clapham, Parsons Green, Putney and Wimbledon 07749 343116, info@young-

nest swings, climbing frames, tree houses, bikes and trailers. They are all securely fenced, providing a safe environment where children can explore freely.

stars.co.uk www.young-stars.co.uk

15 July–30 August Summer Holiday Camps Plenty of fun, games and excitement whilst kids are introduced to all aspects of sports in an all inclusive and noncompetitive environment. 3-12 years, times and prices vary so see website for details.

Special Educational Needs Lady Allen Holiday Playground Chivalry Road, Clapham Junction 020 7228 0278 www.kids.org.uk and Chelsea Adventure Playground Royal Hospital grounds, SW3 4SR 0207 352 6959 www.kids.org.uk KIDS’ Adventure Playgrounds provide an opportunity for stimulating and inclusive play on a closed access site. Playgrounds vary in size however they all have a wide range of equipment including soft play, zip wires, sensory rooms,

Days Out RHS Wisley Woking GU23 6QB www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley Amazing Maze Built from 600 straw bales, it is Wisley’s summer fun play area. About one metre high, young kids will have super fun hiding and trying to find their way through the intricate maze.

17 July and 8 August Bat Walk Discover the secret world of bats on an evening walk.

Adult £9, child £5 for members and non-members. Book via the website. 9-11pm 20 July–1 September Family Fun Garden Adventures with the Very Hungry Caterpillar Explore lifecycles as well as helping children understand where their food comes from and how it grows. Included in Garden entry, pre-book entry for 10% discount.

Make your summer picnics a walk in the park with Treat Trunk Summer holidays are the perfect opportunity to enjoy some quality time with your children. Take the hassle out of packing your summer picnics with a Treat Trunk—a new subscription box filled with tasty, healthy snacks for all the family.

Carefully curated and delivered to your door from just £19.99 a month, each Trunk is full of surprises handpicked for families. All the treats are made with natural ingredients and include familiar favourites alongside new up-and-coming independent snack brands—all taste tested by founder Sally and her two children!

Perfect for every snacking occasion from picnics to school lunches, every Treat Trunk also feeds a child in need through our ShareTheMeal charity partnership.

Ready to ditch the junk with Treat Trunk? To start your adventures in snacking and read our 5 top tips for healthy eating visit www.treattrunk.co.uk

0208 679 4243

18 Families South West • July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

It’s about developing New Skills, growing in Confidence, having great Role Models, making new Friends and being super Active but most of all it’s about having Fun! FOUNDATION PHASE DEVELOPMENT FOR 2-8 YR OLDS

familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 2019 • Families South West 19

Our skilled staff prepare children aged 2-5 years for their next school and start them on a journey of life-long learning.

Incorpora ng art, cooking, science, music, sport, languages, drama, yoga and all aspects of the Early Years Curriculum.

Please arrange a visit to see the learning and excitement in ac on.

www.oaktreenurseryschool.co.uk Ramsden Hall, 21 Ramsden Road, Balham, SW12 8QX Tel: 020 8166 5932

The quality and standards of the early years provision: OUTSTANDING

Effectiveness of leadership and management - OUTSTANDING 1 Quality of teaching, learning and assessment - OUTSTANDING 1 Personal development, behaviour and welfare - OUTSTANDING 1 Outcome for children - OUTSTANDING 1 Quotes from Ofsted

‘Staff use their extensive knowledge of individual children’s needs’ ‘Staff make inspiring variety of activities that challenge children of all ages’ ‘The provider has established excellent working partnership with parents and other professionals and continually evaluates her setting’ ‘Children make exceptional progress, self-assured and eager to learn and explore’ ‘Children are tremendously happy, behaviour is exceptional!’

Call 07939268861 to arrange a visit Email: admin@sparkiesnurseryschool.com www.sparkiesnurseryschool.com

Where teaching is a work of Heart

20 Families South West • July/August 2019

345 Nursery School provides an outstanding start to a child's educational journey. We ensure that our pupils have gained a sense of independence, self-confidence and a desire to learn.

Our independent nursery is situated close to Wandsworth Common and has a very large outdoor space. The curriculum includes Sport, Spanish, Music, Ballet and Tennis.

Contact Jill Pearce info@345nurseryschool.com www.345nurseryschool.com 345 Nursery School, Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity Road London SW18 3SA Tel: 020 3633 4185

familiesonline.co.uk

Prepare your child for nursery

Preparing your child to read with these simple tips: Families asked Somerset Nursery School in Battersea to tell us how parents can prepare their child for nursery

R

eading is a key skill that helps us to learn and to live our lives, so starting to read is an exciting and important stage in children’s development. Children practise many of the skills they need for reading over a long period long before they are ready to make sense of printed words. This includes things like:

• Speaking and listening: talking with children helps them build up a store of words they will meet later in print.

• Role play: children who see reading as a part of everyday life and have opportunities to pretend at reading are becoming prepared for the real thing.

• Rhyme: sharing rhymes with children helps them to listen to the patterns of language.

• Remembering: as they become readers children will need to remember letters of the alphabet and the sounds they represent, the meanings of words and also the sense of what they have just read.

Some of the ways parents can help: • Talking with children as you go about everyday activities • Telling them the words for unfamiliar objects • Using describing words as you explore things together • Take time to stop and look carefully at things on a walk • Sharing songs and rhymes • Playing games like ‘I spy with my little eye

familiesonline.co.uk

something that rhymes with…’

• Playing with your child will help them to concentrate and develop their memory skills such as matching pairs or ‘I went to the market and bought…’ taking it in turns to add something to the list.

Sharing a book Sharing a book is fun, so finding the time when you both are receptive and not too tired is important. Have a conversation about the story and the pictures, encouraging your child to tell you the story if they wish, to turn the pages, and to ask questions. Please allow them to choose the book again and again – repetition and familiarity are building blocks for the development of language and literacy and confidence. Children may wish to tell you their own version of the story too.

As parents and carers you play a vital part in your child’s education and sharing books will help to develop a love of stories and reading and show your child how enjoyable books can be. In turn these experiences will encourage further language development and discussion of ideas and feelings. Your child will see how you value books and reading.

Above all have fun and enjoy your time together!

Somerset Nursery School 157-159 Battersea Church Rd, Battersea, London SW11 3ND somerset.wandsworth.sch.uk

July/August 2019 • Families South West 21

22 Families South West • July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

Prepare your child for nursery

Preparing your child become independent

By Miss Rebecca, Head of Lower School at Finton House School

S

tarting school is exciting and potentially nerve wracking for children and parents but there are many ways to support a happy, calm transition. It is tempting to focus on academics when preparing your child for school, but little steps towards everyday independence can make the biggest difference.

Some key areas to focus on over the summer before your child joins Reception are: • Putting on coats, socks and shoes Rather than standing like a scarecrow waiting to have their coat put on, teach your child to place the coat on the floor in front of them, stand by the collar end, slide their hands into the sleeves then flip the coat up and over their

head. Tah dah! Mentioning superhero capes really helps too!

• Keeping clean Using the toilet, washing their hands and blowing their nose independently are really important skills to master for school. Trust me, your child’s teacher will thank you for it.

• Recognising their own name On starting school children are responsible for lots of belongings.

Making sure they can recognise their name on clothing tags and classroom labels will really help them to feel independent and in control. Please name everything, literally everything! www.fintonhouse.org.uk

Transition from home to Nursery School Families asked Oaktree Nursery school about their ‘Settling in policy’

A

t Oaktree Nursery School, we recognise how important it is for both children and their parents to have a seamless transition from home to nursery. It is on this strong foundation that trust is built between parents, children and our professional and friendly team.

positive and exciting. Settling-in to nursery should therefore not be viewed as a single event, but a process. While some children are happy to simply say goodbye on day one, others may find it overwhelming. Having honest and open on-going conversations with parents is key to a successful

settling-in programme. Small ways to keep in touch with parents, such as a reassuring phone call or text and frequent updates on our online learning-journey system, gives peace of mind.

At Oaktree, we never underestimate the transition and the time it may take for a child to

settle in, however we know that all children can have a positive start.

Greeting the children’s smiling faces every morning highlights the success of our bespoke settling-in policy—it is the first step to a happy school life. www.oaktreenurseryschool.co.uk

Having a positive start to a child's first experiences of their school journey can cement their outlook on education. Our settling-in policy includes ‘Stay and Play’ sessions, ‘Home Visits’, and short settling-in sessions. We work individually with each family to tailor a settling-in programme specifically to their needs As parents and educational professionals, we understand the feelings triggered when a child first leaves the emotional safety of their home for an unfamiliar environment. This can be upsetting for parents and children, which is why we provide support to ensure that the experience is

familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 2019 • Families South West 23

Prepare your child for nursery

Brain-stimulating activities to keep learning alive

By Claire Winter

T

he summer holidays are a great time for children to reboot and relax, but it’s also been reported they can lose 25% of what they’ve earned during the long break. Keep their learning alive with these brain-stimulating activities to do this summer.

Keep a summer journal Encourage your child to document the summer with pictures and writing, perhaps choosing a theme. If they prefer computers, you could get them to create a digital journal with written entries, video diaries, and photos.

Write stories and postcards Documenting the summer on Instagram with pictures and captions is one way to get a child who loves social media platforms involved.

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

Learn to code Coding is fascinating and great for kids who love their tech. There are some brilliant, free websites which teach your kids the basics of coding, such as scratch.mit.edu and Alice.org where children can learn to programme, tell stories and animate!

Learn to cook Children could design a menu for the day, a picnic or an evening meal. Let them be in charge of choosing the menu, buying the ingredients, even if you need to accompany them to the supermarket or help them order online. Weighing, measuring and following instructions all keep the brain active.

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

Scrabble helps with vocabulary and Monopoly boosts Maths and money management skills.

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

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

Congratulations to Miss Emma as Dawmouse Montessori celebrates 25 years as Headteacher is such an achievement and definitely something to celebrate. Miss Emma arrived at the school in Fulham in September 1991 as a newly qualified Montessori teacher (to give some perspective, the Channel Tunnel opened in 1994!). She became owner of the school in September 1994. That school became Dawmouse Brunswick. The school has since expanded to include another Fulham site in St Peters Terrace in 2005, now Dawmouse St Peters.

The schools have gone through many changes in government educational initiatives, but Emma has always maintained the Montessori philosophy and beliefs that children learn best at their own pace and develop a sense of independence and well-being by working in an environment that encourages them to learn together using Montessori materials.

The schools actively encourage parents to be involved in the learning process and they often attend to read stories or take part in school

24 Families South West • July/August 2019

activities. A room full of smiling children who have a thirst for knowledge—and desire to learn—is hardly the worst place to come to teach every day! There are many ups and downs running a busy school, but if you are prepared to dedicate yourself to the work and retain a sense of humour then the rewards are worth it.

Miss Emma’s advice to anyone thinking of running their own school is to dedicate yourself to your work, always put the children’s needs first and be kind to everyone, it will always pay dividends.

Maria Montessori’s words are often quoted and one of Miss Emma’s favourites is: “The essence of independence is to be able to do something for one’s self”. Well done Emma – 25yrs and counting… there must be many children and parents who are grateful for passing through your doors. www.dawmouse.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

“Somerset is a highly developed effective educational practice, where every child is treated as an individual”– OFSTED 2018 A stimulating, vibrant, challenging, inclusive environment where children are able to pursue their own curiosities, take risks and discover from first-hand experiences.

Led by qualified, experienced teachers who enable children to become happy, independent creative thinkers, with a joy for learning.

Places Available: - Free 30 hours where eligible - Free 15 hours part time - Free 15 hours for 2 yr. olds where eligible - 15 or 30 hours fee-paying To arrange a visit please call the school on 0207 223 5455 157 Battersea Church Road, London SW11 3ND www.somerset.wandsworth.sch.uk Maintained and funded by Wandsworth Borough Council

26 Families South West • July/August 2019

Breakfast and Afterschool Clubs Available!

familiesonline.co.uk

Expanding the field of learning An extraordinary school development is underway at 10-13 Prince’s Gate in Kensington.

Four expansive Georgian townhouses are currently being renovated for the opening of Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School in 2020.

L

ocated on the doorstep of our world-famous museums, the children will benefit from a ‘uniquely-tailored curriculum’ and rigorous 11+ preparation, with access to world-class learning spaces and industry-leading technology including a cuttingedge learning zone and an Innovation Lab. Their extracurricular clubs will encourage pupils to try new things from music ensembles and choir, to ballet and yoga. They will also offer clubs in music tech, Mandarin, drama, debating, a range of sports, creative writing, science, robotics, cookery and arts and crafts— ensuring the children find a valuable outlet from their academic studies. Current affairs, critical thinking, interview and exam practice and weekly scholarship sessions will also be a valuable part of the school curriculum.

Amazingly, children will also have access to the school’s large garden, as well as Hyde Park for their outdoor and sports activities.

Jill Walker, the Headmistress, is keen to nurture a global perspective in her pupils and prepare children for the ‘exciting challenges that life can offer through a myriad of activities’. She says: “Education begins in the classroom, but continues in everyday activities and at home. So our rigorous tracking and assessment procedures will be complemented by achievable targets for every child, creative homework tasks and detailed feedback for parents—because together, we can help every child excel.” familiesonline.co.uk

Turning visits and outings into learning opportunities The summer is the perfect time to expand our children’s learning, to expose them to new cultures and experiences—abroad or not—and to take them to visit museums and galleries. It is such an easy way to open their minds and their intelligence while having fun!

Many museums have free entry or activities.

Here is how Prince’s Gardens Prep School aims to weave museum visits into the teaching. It makes very interesting reading and hopefully will provide inspiration

for parents to use museum visits or indeed any new experience, as an extension of the learning at home, with perhaps some related reading, some related arts and craft at home etc.

Reception visit to... The Bear Exhibit at the Natural History Museum The day will start with reading the well-loved story ‘We are Going on a Bear Hunt’, they will then go bear hunting at the Natural History Museum, where they will find a variety of species including polar bears, black bears and brown bears. Back at school, they will be

introduced to ordinal numbers, as they order them from smallest to largest. Other challenges will include making their own jointed (split pin) bears, working collaboratively to produce large scaled bear collages, baking bear biscuits, using mobile devices to record their retelling of the story and using art apps to turn photos of themselves into a bear.

Year 2 visit to... the National History Museum The symmetrical features and stained glass windows in the Central Hall naturally lend themselves to studying geometry and the properties of shape. With the overall learning objective of being able to identify a line of symmetry, the children will use tablets to photograph the symmetrical features in the Central Hall. Back at school, the pupils will take on a variety of challenges such as designing their own stained glass window, and they will use a design programme to manipulate the photographs they took to produce a repeating or symmetrical pattern. They will also create symmetrical light paintings using floor robots and long exposure apps on mobile devices.

Prince’s Gardens Prep School will hold an information event on Monday 23rd September, 10am at the Premises of the Royal Geographical Society, 1 Kensington Gore, SW7 2AR. To reserve a place go to www.princesgardensprep.co.uk

July/August 2019 • Families South West 27

Southfields call 020 8870 8300 email southfields@numberworks.com

Battersea call 020 7223 1882 email battersea@numberworks.com www.numberworksnwords.com/uk

28 Families South West • July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

info@donna-margherita.com

BOOK NOW: 020 7228 2660

DonnaMargherita O U R P I Z Z A W I L L S U R P R I S E YO U W I T H I T S TA S T E A N D L I G H T N E S S Come and taste our authentic Neapolitan cuisine! Wood-fired oven, centuries-old recipes and a very kind and friendly service make Donna Margherita a great place to bring your family.

***SPECIAL SUMMER OFFER TILL AUGUST 15TH*** (just quote Families South West) ALL DAY SUNDAY: 20% off your total bill (including wine) and a free ice cream for children TUESDAY - FRIDAY: 15% off your total bill (including wine) and a free ice cream for children

183 Lavender Hill • SW11 5TE

familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 2019 • Families South West 29

Child-friendly cafes These cafes have been reviewed by our team of roving mums and their children. They are rated for their facilities including high chairs, children menus and space available for buggies. Interestingly many of their preferred cafes are in churches—in the actual churches, not in a hall! Do try them and please mention Families. There should be magazines displayed at all these to pick up.

5

Lantern Coffee House

out of 5

195-205 Worple Road, SW20 8ET lanterncoffeehouse.co.uk

(mainly for convenience and price!)

A friendly little cafe with the added bonus of a large “play zone” next door for 0-4 year olds (open Tue-Fri, 10am-3pm, £1.50 per child, free for under 3mths). There are books to borrow and local flyers to peruse, giving the place a cosy community feeling and the impression that you are welcome to stay and relax without pressure to rush as soon as your drink is finished.

WE LIKE Photo: Helen DaCosta

Prices are reasonable and the food is good quality.

Reviewed by Rasha Barrage

Parish Coffee 23 Malwood Road, SW12 8EN www.ascensionbalham.org

Lovely new cafe based inside the church. Amazing children’s area with good selection of toys. Lots of space for buggies. Reasonably priced and tasty menu for adults and children. I’ve taken my 2 children here and we’ve spent hours there, they played while I had lunch and coffee.

WE LIKE

It’s a short walk to Clapham Common.

Reviewed by Irene Bausas

5 out of 5

Faithful Bean St Thomas Church, Telford Avenue, SW2 4XW www.faithfulbean.co.uk

4 out of 5

Another good cafe based in a church. Indoor and outdoor toys for little ones.

Comfortable sofa and carpet area for the children. Outdoor seating. Homemade cakes, quiche and soup at affordable prices. Good quality, affordable tasty food.

Children’s menu at £2.50. Short walk to Tooting Common.

WE LIKE

Weekly activities in the church: a playgroup, a breastfeeding drop in first Monday of each month and pilates.

Reviewed by Irene Bausas 30 Families South West • July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

Cheeky Chicos 126 St. John's Hill, SW11 1SL www.cheekychicos.co.uk

Cheeky Chicos is the latest addition along St John’s Hill—easy to spot it with its bright pink exterior. There’s lots of space inside and the place is lovely and bright. Family friendly with high chairs and a changing area. Tasty Mexican fusion food such as tostadas, tacos and salsas. Amazing selection of drinks such as margaritas (classic and flavoured), mojitos and Pina coladas.

WE LIKE

5 out of 5

Toast Rack

Easy walk from Clapham Junction station and local parks nearby and they do brunch!

Reviewed by Irene Bausas

314 Trinity Road, SW18 3RG www.toastrackbakery.co.uk

Great menu for adults and children made by their in house chef. Good space for buggies.

Has toys for babies and toddlers. Weekend brunch is quite relaxing with toys for the children.

Quality bread made onsite, good option if you’re in the Wandsworth Common area, playground and common is just 5 minute walk. Children can choose from pancakes etc or toasts.

WE LIKE

4 out of 5

Unlimited DIY toast station where you grab your toast and put whatever you want on it.

4.5 Bliss Café 264 The Broadway, SW19 1SB www.facebook.com/blisscoffeeshop

Welcome to Bliss as the locals refer to it. It’s small but cozy and you will always run into someone you know from the neighbourhood. Serving breakfast and brunch fare, you can try out such favourites as their American Style Pancakes, their Veggie Breakfast with halloumi, avocado and eggs or an Acai bowl for something lighter.

Bliss is a great child friendly café because it has its own children’s menu (the Yummy Cinnamon French Stars are a favourite) as well as a large bookshelf full of children’s books to look at while mum enjoys her coffee. High chairs are also available for very little ones.

WE LIKE

Reviewed by Irene Bausas

out of 5

Their homemade scones and cakes aside, Bliss’ best kept secret is the live jazz sessions they offer on Saturday afternoons!

Reviewed by Melissa Reynolds

GooseBerry Bush Cafe

4.5

115 Kingston Road, SW19 1LT www.gooseberrybushcentres.com

out of 5

The GooseBerry Bush is so much more than just a café.

Stop in for their all day brunch, or settle in for some lunch offerings of salads, sandwiches and toasties, homemade cakes and cookies and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. With its comfy, couch-like seating, ample high chairs and a separate children’s menu, GooseBerry Bush is a great place for kids to enjoy a meal, they can also check out the books and play items for sale (although your wallet may not thank you!).

WE LIKE

Adults can browse the café’s selection of greeting cards, as well as candles, cookbooks, artwork and tea.

Upstairs are treatments and classes from acupuncture, osteopathy, baby massage and photography.

Reviewed by Melissa Reynolds familiesonline.co.uk

FamiliesSWLondon

July/August 2019 • Families South West 31

PORTRAITS

by Mary-Maye

Commissions Gifts & Memories

Calling all baby Scientists!

Help us discover how babies learn!

Calling all infants from birth to 18 months to take part in fun studies at the Birkbeck Babylab in central London. We provide a black cab if you live within 5 miles of Birkbeck, or we refund any travel expenses.

020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk 32 Families South West • July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On July/August 2019 Balham Comedy festival

If you only do one thing this month…

Spend time in the new children’s garden at Kew

Horrible Histories Barmy Britain, Apollo Theatre Photo: Mark Douet

Make sure to go to this garden this summer!

Kew Gardens, www.kew.org The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew has embarked on its most ambitious design project in recent years, with the creation of a giant new Children’s Garden. The size of nearly 40 tennis courts (10,000m²) it has been designed by Kew garden designers around the elements that plants need to grow: earth, air, sun and water.

Children will be able to play and explore as they wind their way through a landscape filled with over 100 mature trees, discovering hidden treasures and adventure, and developing their love of nature, plants and the outdoors along the way. This unique space will not only be a hub of fun and adventure but will also stimulate imaginations, and bring a different perspective on how plants grow and why they are so important. Ages 2-12.

Diary Dates ...

raffle prize draw in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital. Come along and enjoy a carnival atmosphere at the award-winning Battersea Reach development.

11 am-3 pm

Royal Society

Mum2mum Market

6-9 Carlton House Terrace SW1Y 5AG www.royalsociety.org 1-7 July Summer Science Editor’s Pick Exhibition A week long programme of thought-provoking talks, jaw-dropping demonstrations and entertaining performances alongside 22 exhibits of hands-on science and technology. FREE

Ricards Lodge High School SW19 www.mum2mummarket.co.uk 13 July Come along and buy all kinds of nearly new toys, clothes, books, strollers, car seats, feeding accessories, baby equipment and so much more. £2 on the door, children free. Visit the Mum2mum Market website to get 2 for 1 admission. 3.30-5.30pm

NCT First Aid course www.nct.org.uk 6 July and 3 August At Physio for All, Webbs Road, SW11 6SF 2-5pm 8 August At Eddie Catz, 279 Magdalen Road, SW18 3NZ 7-10pm

Battersea Reach Summer Fair 13 July Fun activities for all the family and a familiesonline.co.uk

The Golden Hinde SE1 www.goldenhinde.co.uk 17th July All Aboard The Golden Hinde Quiz Test your knowledge of anything and everything with this fun alternative quiz! 7.30 £8 3rd August The Golden Hinde Night Voyage Family Editor’s Pick Event An amazing night-

FamiliesSWLon

time sleepover adventure awaits on The Golden Hinde! Gets sold out quickly! 5pm–9am next day. £45 per person

Could you foster a teenager?

Venues in Wandsworth www.wandsworth.gov.uk/carer_ex periences 18 July Find out more about fostering at this event. Go to the website or call 020 8871 6666 to find out more.

Tin Pan Annie Summer Show St Barnabas’ Editor’s Pick Church, Clapham Common Northside, SW4 9SW Book now places go fast! tinpanannie.co.uk 20 July After the success of their sell out Christmas Shows this is the‘Go-to’ summer event for all the family, ages 0-100. Come and boogie, bounce, clap and sing-along to all the best family favourite s about buses, trains, unicorns, monkeys, sausages….Although it is aimed at the under-fives, older siblings

always have a great time too. Lots of space for buggies, wheelchairs, nappy changing, feeding and boogying. Shows at 11am and 3.30pm. £5 adults £5 children 12 months and above.

Family Saturdays at the BAC Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill www.bac.org.uk 27 July and 31 August Join the BAC on the final Saturday of every month for a day of fun, food and free activities, including face painting, music, workshops storytelling and free entry into the magical indoor play space for under 5s. 0-11s

Clapham Old Town Fair The Polygon, Clapham Old town 1 September In partnership with Omnibus Theatre and the London Fire Brigade, the event by “This is Clapham’, only started 2016, will have over 40 stalls including Vauxhall city farm, live music, a dog show and much more. 12-5pm Continued on p.35

July/August 2019 • Families South West 33

34 Families South West • July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

Summer by the River

CHILD FRIENDLY FESTIVALS Balham Comedy Festival The Bedford pub, Balham www.balhamcomedyfestival.com 5–13 July Produced by Banana Cabaret’s Dave Vickers and John Moloney, comedy legend and star of BBC Radio Four’s The John Moloney Show, the 2019 Balham Comedy Festival will play host to an avalanche of top comedy names, some of whom will be giving ‘sneak peaks’ of their forthcoming Edinburgh shows with work in progress sets. This one is for grown-ups actually!

River Stage Festival 2019 National Theatre SE1 www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows /river-stage-2019 5 July–4 August A free outdoor festival of arts and entertainment. Each weekend, River Stage partners take over the stage outside the National Theatre and offer a full line-up of events for all ages, including family workshops, theatre, activities, live music and performances.

Happy Streets Festival St George’s School playground & ROSE Community Centre and garden, Ascalon Street, SW8 4AN nineelmslondon.com/events/creati ng-happy-street 13 July Celebrate the colourful redesign of Thessaly Road rail underpass at a free festival for the whole family.

Join in with arts workshops, listen to live music and watch performances. 12pm to 6pm

Southbank www.southbankcentre.co.uk July-September Summer at Southbank Centre sees

familiesonline.co.uk

Tin Pan Annie

Kensington Palace Photo: ©Historic Royal Palaces James Linsell-Clarke

the 17-acre site play host to an array of free events and an abundance of fun and entertainment for the whole family.

Check the website for the full listings.

24-26 Aug The return of Editor’s Pick Peppa Pig: My First Concert everyone’s favourite pig family leads a fun, interactive introduction to live orchestra. From £12 children, £16 adults.

14-26 Aug Disco Loco Family friendly queer programme for everyone by Hackney Showrooms.

Check website for prices.

Underbelly Festival www.underbellyfestival.com 3-31 August The wonderful world of Twirlywoos – as seen on CBeebies – will be brought to life on stage for the first time in London this Summer, when Toodloo, Great BigHoo, Chickedy, Chick and Peekaboo set sail for the Underbelly Festival Southbank.

Camp Bestival Lulworth Castle, Dorset July 25th-28th Camp Bestival is Editor’s Pick known as the UK's ultimate family festival, having won Best Family Festival at the UK Festival Awards five times. Hundreds of things to see and do from headliners Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Jess Glynne and Annie Mac, family fun with Mr Tumble, Mister Maker and Shaun The Sheep, to science shows and circus workshops, there’s so much for kids of all ages to enjoy. Tree-climbing, woodland workshops, helter skelters, giant bubble workshops and face painting for the kids through to teens having poetry slams.

Lambeth Country Show Brockwell Park, Herne Hill SE24 9BJ

www.lambethcountryshow.co.uk 20 & 21 July One of the biggest free family festivals in the UK. Expect all the attractions of a traditional country show, sheep and owl displays, home grown vegetable and flower competitions, an abundance of craft and food stalls and their very own on site farm. Music always plays a big part of the show too, featuring a mix of dub, Afro-beat, disco, jazz, folk, ska and soul. A fantastic day out. FREE

a huge variety of films in the 2019 programme, including this year’s biggest children’s releases, from The Lego Movie 2 to Disney’s highly anticipated live-action remakes Dumbo and Aladdin.

There will also be exclusive screenings of The Gruffalo, The Highway Rat, Zog and the brand new Peppa Pig movie–Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun among many other family favourites. From £13.50 to £18.50 for adults and £8 to £13 for children

Playday UK

Pop Up Screens

www.playday.org.uk 7 August This year the Playday 2019 theme is ‘Play Builds Children’ aiming to highlight the many ways in which play is beneficial to children and young people. From small-scale community events to thousands of children taking part in events organised in parks and open spaces, Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them. Check the website.

Venues across SW London including Fulham Palace, Brixton and Parsons Green www.popupscreens.co.uk Check from a number of films, including the Greatest Showman, Mama Mia and Jurassic Park.

Summer by the River londonbridgecity.co.uk Throughout the summer With open air cinema and theatre, big screen summer sports, live comedy and music performances, fun family days, fitness classes and a host of events to let your hair down on a Friday, Summer by the River will be the ultimate London experience this summer.

AL FRESCO CINEMAS Luna Kids Cinema www.lunakidscinema.com Dulwich park and Hampton Court The first and only open-air cinema experience designed specifically for families and children of all Editor’s Pick ages. Families can choose from

Film4 Summer Screen Somerset House Sitting under the starry sky on a balmy summer evening, audiences can now choose from a new range of seating options, including luxurious Bean Bags and Director’s Chairs. With London’s largest outdoor screen, every position provides a prime viewing experience.

Painshill Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1JE www.painshill.co.uk An amazing setting for watching a film al fresco! Check website for film details.

Open air cinemas for grown-ups Check these out for some well deserved time for grown ups! www.whereisthenomad.com, www.secretcinema.org, www.backyardcinema.co.uk in Wandsworth, www.rooftopfilmclub.com. Check also Movies On The River www.timeout.com, www.freefilmfestivals.org in Herne Hill and the Royal Opera House's BP Big Screens www.roh.org.uk Continued on p.36

July/August 2019 • Families South West 35

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show.

Photo: Credit Pamela Raith Photography

BABIES AND TODDLERS Babble talks The Bedford, 77 Bedford Hill, London SW12 9HD www.babbletalks.com 14 August Bacteria and You From the moment we leave our mothers we are coated with them, they populate our guts and infiltrate our lives. But do bacteria affect the way we think and feel? 11.30am £10

Monski Mouse’s Baby Cabaret Underbelly Festival www.underbellyfestival.com 24, 25, 26 July at 11am The perfect family day out for families with young children, Gran, uncle, mum, dad, Step out of babies, tots and your comfort zone preschoolers can and immerse dance, party and yourselves in full play to classic tracks, disco-dancingcrazy tunes, and role-play thumping nursery rhymes.

Irene Bausas’s reviews: “We spent the morning at Southbank, watching the boats, exploring the playground and enjoying the sights. After lunch, we were ready to burn off some more energy on the dance floor. Monski Mouse had a great selection of songs that the whole family can dance to. The Spiegeltent was an amazing venue. It was quite a sight to see the whole room doing Lion King’s “In the Jungle” with the children mounted on the back’s like Simba. We had a great work out and lots of fun!”

Dinosaur World Live

Kids’ and toddlers’ arts and craft classes 10-11am £5.

Every Friday Rhythm n’ Babes Music classes for babies and their carers with live instruments. 9.30-10.15am, £5.

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Tara Arts 356 Garrat Lane, Earlsfield, SW18 4ES www.byobcomedy.com 17 July A funny, friendly Sure to afternoon of give a boost top comedy to morale! and you get to bring your own baby! They provide toys, baby changing, buggy parking, bottle warmers and more, so that baby is happy and you can relax and enjoy top comedy stars from the circuit and TV. £12.50 Irene Bausas review: “Daytime comedy for adults, soft play for babies under 1 which takes place all over London and nearby areas. Excellent provisions for the babies, very clean soft mats and toys, changing area within the venue, lots of space of buggies etc.

It’s a comedy and playdate in one.”

4 out of 5.

5

THEATRE

National Theatre www.nationaltheatre.org.uk 25 July-31 August Mr Gum and the dancing bear–The

The Graveney and Meadow SW17 9NA graveneyandmeadow.com Every Wednesday

36 Families South West • July/August 2019

The Previous Cast of The Worst Witch - UK Tour Photo: Manuel Harlan

musical Mr Gum is a complete horror who hates children, animals and fun of any kind – so when a big bear strolls into town, trouble can’t be far off. Can nine-year-old Polly and her band of misfit friends help the bear escape the villain’s evil clutches, or will Mr Gum and his gruesome butcher sidekick prevail? 7yrs+

Unicorn Theatre is retelling stories for today's audiences with two productions; suitable for ages 4-7 and 8-12.

Lyric West End www.nimaxtheatres.com 3 July–8 September The Gruffalo Live on stage Songs, laughs and monstrous fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups in the Editor’s Pick much-loved show that’s toured Britain and the world! Anniversary production – 20 years! Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood.

Careful though, is there a Gruffalo about? From £15. Under 18m free

Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Alice in Wonderland theatreonkew.seetickets.com 20 July-26 August (exc Mondays) Join Alice on her amazing journey through Wonderland and experience an adventure like no other. Enjoy this family-friendly outdoor theatre production of Lewis Carroll's classic story. With colourful costumes, interactive games and catchy songs this is the perfect way to go on a fantastic adventure. Outdoors. Times vary.

Adults £22.90 Child £17.90 Aged 5+.

Unicorn Theatre www.unicorntheatre.com Until 3 August Aesop’s Fables As far as we know, Aesop was a slave and storyteller who lived in ancient Greece between 620 and 564 BC. But although we don't know much about the man himself, over 725 of his stories are passed down from generation to generation. The

Vaudeville theatre www.nimaxtheatres.com Please check website for full schedule details 24 July to 8 September.

The Worst Witch, by Jill Murphy.

For a limited time in the summer!

Most suitable for Ages 7+.

Performances: 1.30pm, 2pm, 5.30pm & 7pm. Just over 2 hours inc interval. From £20

Iris Theatre iristheatre.com To 27 July Hamlet Enjoy an outdoor promenade performance of Shakespeare’s Hamlet in the beautiful grounds of St Paul’s Church in the heart of Covent Garden. A thrilling, contemporary production of Shakespeare’s greatest play. £20 adult/£15 under 16yrs. 8yrs+ 1 Aug to 1 Sept.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame This vibrant, outdoor production of Victor Hugo’s epic tale of injustice, survival and love will be a spectacular adventure for all the family. And given the events of earlier this summer, is very timely. £20 adult/£15 under 16yrs.

8yrs+

familiesonline.co.uk

Ali Baba at Fulham Palace

Apollo Theatre www.nimaxtheatres.com 6-31 Aug Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain– Part Four Birmingham Stage Company is returning to the Editor’s Pick West End this summer with Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain – Part Four! We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it's time to prepare yourself…. and be reduced to rubble by the ruthless Romans!

Ages 5+

Leicester Square Theatre www.leicestersquaretheatre.com 15+16 July Mad Hatter the Musical Discover the untold story of Franklin Magellan as he makes his way to Wonderland. The show follows a crippled man from boyhood, through all the tragic and lifechanging events that lead him to becoming the famous "Mad Hatter." PG rated, 7pm start, tickets £21.25 20 July-1 September The Scarecrows’ Wedding A heartwarming and award-winning adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's bestselling book is bursting at the seams with Scamp Theatre's inimitable style. Ages 3+

Garrick Theatre www.braniaclivelondon.com 31 July-2 September Braniac Live The show that laughs in the face of science is coming to London's West End for a strictly limited season. Based on the much loved, popular science entertainment TV show, the live show is a breathless, fun and fact-filled Editor’s Pick exploration of the weird and wonderful world of science, that through a series of high energy experiments delves fearlessly, and perhaps a little foolishly, into the mysteries of science. Ages 6+, tickets from £17.

familiesonline.co.uk

Astonights.

Photo: Benjamin Ealovega, Science Museum

Mask Making by Polka Theatre at Morden Hall Park

Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre Dinosaur World Live Fulton Rd, Wembley HA9 8TS 0844 815 4865 www.dinosaurworldlive.com 18 July–1 September Amazing interactive Editor’s Pick children’s theatre bringing dinosaurs to life on stage. Using stunning puppetry to bring remarkably life-like dinosaurs to the stage, including every child's favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, and Triceratops. From £14. Ages 3+

Troubadour Theatre WhiteCity Troubadourtheatres.com/ white-city 0844 815 4866 7 August-1 September The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show The show features a menagerie of 75 enchanting puppets during a magical show that faithfully adapts four of Eric Carle’s best loved books for the stage. The 50th Anniversary production will feature a brand-new line-up of stories for 2019. Suitable for children and families of all ages. Babes in Arms welcome. £15-25

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES Family Heritage Trail Battersea Arts Centre www.bac.org.uk NEW! Saturdays from 3rd August Launching this August the trail explores the hidden corners of BAC through the people, stories and values that have shaped its 125-year history. Visitors will uncover hidden history and encounter new specially commissioned artworks with a self-guided trail created by theatremakers and artists. Discover the stories of exceptional people, solve puzzles, see new artworks. Free but booking recommended. 11am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm. 6-11 years.

BFI families www.bfi.org.uk/families Saturdays in July and August Saturday Film Clubs These Saturday film clubs are a must for any child who loves film and wants to have fun! Topics cover

everything from animation and adverts, to sci-fi and special effects. These clubs are hugely popular so book early. Mini Filmmakers for ages 8-11, 10.30– 12.30, Young Filmmakers for ages 12-15, 2-4.30pm.

Check website for full programme.

14 July is Family Funday Preview and also a workshop : Horrible Histories: The Movie – Rotten Romans.

Chelsea Physics Garden www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk One of our favourite places in London, the Garden is home to a unique living collection of around 5,000 different edible, useful, medicinal and historical plants contained within its sheltering walls. Late evenings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays this July and August.

Great selection of family activities, £11 pp half day, £15 pp full days, from 10.30am.

- 6 August Chocolate Tuesday. 6–11yrs.

- 8 August Pulp Fiction: Paper-making 6+yrs

Continued on p.38

RHS Wisley Woking GU23 6QB www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley 28 July Wind in the Willows (outdoor theatre) Boating with Ratty, a feast with Badger and high jinx on the open road with that reckless ruffian, Mr Toad… Adult £12, child £9. Please book via website.

Kids Week officiallondontheatre.com/kids-week/

For all of August, a child aged 16 or under can go to any participating show for free as long as they’re with a full paying adult. Adults can buy up to two extra children’s tickets then at half price and there are no added booking fees. It includes a wide variety of London musicals, plays, comedies and children’s shows.

July/August 2019 • Families South West 37

Twirlywoos Live Photo: Pamela Raith Photography

- 15 August Lotions and Potions - Introduction to herbal medicine for your summer holiday. 8+yrs.

- 22 August Creepy Crawling Garden Safari 5+yrs - 27 August Living Natural Dyes Workshop 8yrs.

- 28 August Dinner with Dinosaurs. Find the living fossils that these magnificent reptiles wolfed down for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 5–12 yrs.

The Foundling Museum Camden Town WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Britain's first home for abandoned children.

27 July and 30 August Object Handling sessions

Fringe Monski Mouse

Get closer to the Museum's Collections at the free handling sessions, guided by expert staff.

2pm, free with admission.

Fulham Palace www.fulhampalace.org A wide range of activities for the whole family, check out the website.

Every Monday and Tuesday in July & August Summer Seekers Creative activities for 2-7yrs and their adults. 10.3011.30am 7 July Watch Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves performed in the walled garden by award winning theatre company Illyria. 2.30-4:50pm Adults £14, children £8.50, under 3's £3

29 August Frankenstein the musical Bring your own seating or rug. Suitable for all ages 7-10pm Adults £14, children £8.50, under 3's £3

The Horninam Museum Forest Hill SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Until 27 October Brick Wonders Discover amazing wonders from around the world made entirely from LEGO bricks.

Build your imagination at the interactive play areas, £5 children, £9 adults, £20 families.

24 July-30 August Summer Holiday events Join in with sessions of pond-dipping, hands-on events, art workshops and storytelling, check the website for full details.

28 July Family Rave Awardwinning family favourites Big Fish Little Fish are back for a dance outside with your family under bubbles and balloons to acid house, techno and drum and bass.

2-6pm, children £12.50, adults £15.

Imperial War Museum Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk IWM shows and records war through the eyes of the people who lived it. Be moved. Be inspired.

Be transformed. Open 10am to 6pm daily, admission free.

Kensington Palace Selected dates in the summer Time Explorers station Discover the stories and explore the palace with an activity bag: don’t forget to also pick-up your crown!

Make a palace a home family trail Pick up a family trail from the trail stand in White Court. 5-11yrs.

London Transport Museum www.ltmuseum.co.uk Throughout July and August Future Engineers Gallery Have fun exploring the fascinating world of

38 Families South West • July/August 2019

Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House Photo: Tom Nicholson

transport engineering in the new Future Engineers gallery, which opens to Always a the public as a favourite with permanent display. Test children! your skills, solve transport conundrums faced by modern day engineers, and enjoy a series of interactive exhibits.

Throughout July and August London Stories Visit this new exhibition featuring 100 illustrations celebrating London and revealing some of the fascinating tales of London life past and present. From urban myths, historic events and remarkable characters, to daily lives and adventurous animals, the exhibition offers new insights into the cultural history and heritage of London. It’s quirky, amusing and bizarre!

Morden Hall Park nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hallpark Too many events to list, check the website to see them all.

19 July, 9, 17 August Family bat walk Bring your family along for a walk around the park after dark as you look and listen for bats. Booking essential. 8.15– 9.30pm. Adult £5, child £3 20, 27 July, 1 August Arts & Crafts with Polka. Join Polka experienced workshop leaders for creating amazing creatures, masks and more from their vast array of materials. 4-6yrs.

Times vary.

20 & 21 July Morden Hall Park Summer Fair A weekend not to miss. With animal shows, craft stalls and food vendors, it's a great day out for the whole family. Adult £7.50, child £3 10am-5pm 2, 3 &5 August Outdoor acrobatic theatre New for 2019, Star Flower will amaze you with a magical performance of aerial and ground based acrobatics, dance and physical theatre, bringing to life one of our trees in the Rose Garden.

Times vary. Adult £12 Child £9

familiesonline.co.uk

Bring Your Own Baby, comedy Photo: ElyseMarks

Museum of London www.museumoflondon.org.uk Until January 2020 Beasts of London Step into a tour through London’s history, narrated by the animals who once lived here.

Beasts of London explores the fascinating role animals have played in shaping the capital. Discover how animals – from lions and elephants, to horses, rats and pigeons – have shaped the city and its beastly history. Age 7+

National Army Museum www.nam.ac.uk - Free children's trails A wide range of topics to suit a variety of age groups. Open 10am-5.30pm, admission free.

- Playbase Whether your child wants to take on the soft play assault course, climb aboard a truck or prepare scoff in the cookhouse, Play Base lets every child shine.

Ages 0-8, £4.50 per child for an hour-long session.

Natural History Museum www.nhm.ac.uk Until January 2020 - Museum of the Moon is six-metre model featuring meticulously detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface, ambient moonlight and an evolving soundscape. An exciting programme of events for space enthusiasts of all ages. Free. Join interactive theatre-makers Coney in Companion: Moon, a free experience where you can join in or observe as multiple art forms

Family-friendly outdoor production Kew Gardens

combine in a beautiful performance. 20, 26 July, 1, 8, 15, 17, 22 and 29 August. FREE, tickets not required. Family yoga classes under the Moon: 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 August 08.45-9.30am. £14 16 August - Dinosnores for Kids Unique sleepover for 7-11yrs to explore the Museum after dark while taking part in fun and educational activities: explore a torch-lit trail, get creative, enjoy an educational science show. At midnight, it's time to settle down to sleep. In the morning, breakfast is served early, get to experience a live animal show before waving goodbye to the Museum when it opens to the public at 10am £60

Royal Academy youngartists.royalacademy.org.uk Online until 31 December 2019, a selection of these artworks will be on display at the RA from 13 July–4 August Young Artists Summer Show Building on the success of the Summer exhibition and the A-Level Summer Exhibition, The Young Artists’ Summer Show will recognise artworks made by talented young artists at primary and secondary school level.

Royal Museums Greenwich www.rmg.co.uk From 19 July The Moon Exhibition Visit the UK's biggest exhibition dedicated to Earth's celestial neighbour. The NMM exhibition features over 180 artefacts, artworks and interactive moments, charting

After School Club, Holiday Club and Drop In Crèche

Give your child a unique experience Dino Snores

the cultural and scientific story of our relationship with the Moon. £5.85 children, £9 adults.

The Great Explorer An interactive game for families. Borrow a tablet device and set sail across The Great Map to explore distant lands and discover treasures from all around the world. Where will you visit and what will you find? 11am-4pm, free.

Science Museum 20 July Apollo Astronights Oneoff, family-only, overnight space spectacular. Discover what astronauts eat in space, hitch a ride and journey across the Moon in a lunar rover workshop or get handson in highly interactive drop-in sessions at this bumper sleepover.

10 July–23 February 2020 Top Secret: From Ciphers to Cyber Security. Explore the story of Alan Turing and the team of Bletchley Park codebreakers who broke the Enigma code in 1941, uncover spycraft from 1960’s Cold War espionage and challenge your friends and family to become codebreakers in our interactive puzzle zone. Free – booking required Open Daily Wonderlab: Fuel your imagination and immerse yourself in a world of wonder at the most spectacular interactive gallery in the world, with over 50 mind-blowing exhibits, shows and demonstrations to enjoy. Science shows are performed daily, featuring: Live Wire!: Where does electricity comes from?

The Rocket Show: Learn how

astronauts get into space and back safely.

Prime Time: How do we use maths in our everyday lives.

Tower of London www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london Throughout July and August Armoury in Action A family friendly exhibition revealing the fascinating story of arms and the armoury at the Tower. From shooting arrows and assembling firearms to brandishing swords, a thousand years of history at the Tower is brought to life in this exciting, hands-on experience.

WWT London SW13 9WT www.wwt.org.uk 20 July-1 September Wetland Explorers Grab your free Wetland Explorer log book and start your expedition. There are loads of exciting wetland challenges waiting for you including pond dipping, wild painting and raft building. Free log book.

Every Friday 2-30 August Children's Night Safaris An exciting night Editor’s Pick adventure of building dens, exploring the centre with all your senses, listening to wildlife and looking for bats and other nocturnal animals. If it’s a clear night they’ll even show you how to recognise stars in the night sky. And they’ll finish the evening with stories around a roaring campfire toasting marshmallows. For age 7+, 7pm10pm. £25.50 per child.

Gwendolen House can offer the solution for your ad hoc childcare needs for further details:

0208 704 1107

www.gwendolenhouse.com familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 2019 • Families South West 39