Families London SW July-August 2021 Print

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Over 120 activities, summer camps and things to do!

Local businesses • What’s On this summer Holiday activities • Plastic-free challenge Issue 308 July/August 2021

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To find out more: Call (020) 8871 6666 wandsworth.gov.uk/fostering fosteringrecruitment@wandsworth.gov.uk Produced by Wandsworth Design & Print. wdp@wandsworth.gov.uk CS.1933 DC 1 (4.21)

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LOCAL BUSINESSES THAT DESERVE SUPPORT

If we have learnt one thing from the pandemic, surely it has to be the importance of local businesses. They provide a unique service, offer locally-sourced products, and their service and attention to detail is paramount. Here are ten local businesses that we like—they deserve your support.

La Pizzicheria

41 Northcote Road, SW11 www.lapizzicheria.co.uk A fabulous little shop and such a welcome addition to Northcote Road. You’ll find a huge range of Italian delicacies, wines, meat, fruit & veg as well and dairy and bakery too.

Owner Alexandro Grapelli, who famously brought roman cuisine to London with his Taverna restaurant (one of the busiest restaurants in London, he claims), opened this deli only a month ago: do support him!

It’s traditional, it’s Italian, the shop is bursting, it’s the real thing!

Why we like it:

Cheerleading

Seen on BBC News and radio recently. Because of their massive success, Cheerleading has exploded in popularity in the UK!

www.ultimate-cheer.co.uk Think you know Cheerleading? But did you know there’s no pompoms? And you are not ‘cheering’ for a team? Cheerleading requires you to throw someone in the air then immediately complete your gymnastics-style tumble pass. There are pyramids, dance and lots of sass! If you’re looking for a team sport that builds confidence and teaches your child to flip, then Ultimate Cheer, based in SW London, is for you!

Ultimate Cheer is fully inclusive and focuses on creating a positive, supporting and welcoming environment for everyone. When your family joins Ultimate Cheer they become part of something so much bigger and make friends for life!

The club is built on a fantastic community.

Why we like it:

VE Kitchen 39 Northcote Road, SW11 1NJ vekitchen.com Can't believe vegan dishes can taste totally delicious? Come this way and try their vegan burgers: they have apparently converted more than one meat eater! The VE Kitchen food philosophy is simple: create deliciously nutritious, freshly prepared plant food dishes in a 100% green energy, all electric, no-plastic eatery. Freshly prepared by their talented chefs, they serve nutritionally balanced super salads, deliciously sumptuous burgers and hot classics to order. Plus local beer and organic wines: what’s not to like?

Their vegan burgers are truly delicious!

Why we like it:

Not just a marketplace—a village of trusted families nathalie@circlehood.co.uk @Circlehood circlehood.co.uk CircleHood is an innovative business that aims to turn second-hand shopping into a unique and positive experience, while connecting parents in their neighbourhood and beyond. Because they care about your experience and understand how precious time is, they have made it possible to Sell, Buy or Donate in just a matter of minutes.

FREE to download and FREE to use, no commissions taken.

Why we like it:

6 Families South West • July/August 2021

To advertise please call 020 8696 9680

The Butcher’s Table 78 St John's Hill, London SW11 1SY www.thebutcherstable.co.uk As the world is slowly waking up to the disastrous effects of cheap imported and low welfare meat coming from the other side of the world, we need to turn to small businesses like this one to provide us with high welfare, free range and responsibly-sourced produce. Owned by two energetic friends who really care about the products they sell, John and Rob are also extremely knowledgeable and very helpful. From field to fork and to your table: they can deliver high quality, high welfare meat, their favourite wines and beers and some delicious deli items.

Why we like it: They are reviving Northcote Road with ‘traditional’ shops providing excellent products.

Neha Lall Estate Agents

020 8798 2505 www.nehalall.co.uk With a passion for property, Neha’s purpose is to provide a warm and personal service, giving the client a seamlessly enjoyable customer journey through to completion.

“Being shown houses by different people is very frustrating. My main aim is to provide that dedicated 1-to1 service: I can be reached 7 days a week to make your journey as smooth as possible. With links to exceptional and competitively-priced solicitors, surveyors, removal firms, architects etc, I will be with you every step of the way—starting from valuation through to completion and everything in between.”

Why we like it: FREE instant online valuation in just 60 SECONDS, exceptional customer service.

Palmer Fisher London

72 Battersea Rise, SW11 1EH www.palmerfisherlondon.com This salon is the dream come true of couple Nikita and Jonathan Palmer. With 30 years experience between them in the industry, the time had come to create their own fun, bright and luxurious salon. They said: “It’s our passion to create a hair salon where our team and our clients feel at home.” Their talented team offers expert advice and creative skills with endless knowledge, and will educate you through every step of your hair service. “A lovely, friendly team and always do an amazing job on my hair. Highly recommend!” said a recent customer. Easy online booking system.

Why we like it: A truly bespoke service, they will work with you and give good advice.

TapaJax

St John’s Hill www.tapajax.com Staying in the UK? Sure a staycation is great and the weather has been good recently, but will you miss the Mediterranean food? Fear not! For your ‘fix’ of authentic, freshly-made tapas in a Mediterranean ambiance, head to Tapajax. They opened a year ago and did well from day 1, which says it all really. This new restaurant prides itself on selling fresh tapas made every day, accompanied with some great wines and cocktails. See you there!

Why we like it: We love the vibe and the authentic food.

Mobile waterless car washing

@filthtoclean, www.filthtoclean.co.uk In line with New to the area is waterless car cleaning Filth, launched by James and Mike. They their environmental began offering to wash their neighbours’ cars during the first lockdown, as a way of philosophy, Filth donate finding something to fill their days. They quickly received a high level of demand, but a portion of their found they were restricted by a limited access to water and electricity. They trialled a few solutions and now Filth uses cleaning products containing Nano and Carnauba Wax profits to (the world’s strongest natural wax) which loosen the dirt before allowing it to be polished Water Aid. to a high gloss. From £24.

Why we like it:

Filth comes to you on electric mopeds with all the equipment they require, including cordless vacuum cleaners

Annabella baby clothes made in Italy @annabella_clothing www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Annabellaclothing Valentina‘s grandmother started making handmade baby clothes in Catania, Sicily in 1972. Recently, Valentina, who lives in SW London, decided to bring her family business to the UK. Together with her aunt she creates and designs timeless Italian classic-style clothes from newborn up to one year old. Today they still operate from the same little hub, creating and designing each model themselves with premium natural fabrics, like pure organic cotton and merino wool. The pieces with handmade embroidery reflect Italian classic design, using the most traditional style and approach. Delivery is within two weeks from placing the order.

Why we like it: All the clothes are custom-made and can be personalised. familiesonline.co.uk

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July/August 2021 • Families South West 9

ENVIRONMENT

Plastic pollution?

Every July marks the Plastic-Free July Challenge where participants aim to reduce their single-use plastic consumption. There are many ways, tips and tricks to accomplish this goal.

Those who participate have made changes in their plastic use at school, work, business and in their community. They use reusable water bottles, carry cloth grocery bags, buy at bulk stores and avoid pre-packaged foods in favour of farmers’ markets.

Solutions are everywhere, and Families readers have a few of their own to share that are simple and won’t take up a lot of time in our busy lives.

“What sparked my need to move away from plastic was the realisation that the vast majority of plastic is not recyclable and here to stay on earth forever. Even the occasional use of reusable nappies makes a major difference to the level of waste produced; using just one reusable nappy in place of a disposable every day could save 730 nappies from landfill during the early stages of a child’s life."

Daniella Walters “There are a couple of easy wins. 1. We use the mesh, reusable bags to buy loose fruit and vegetables. 2. We use an EcoEgg for washing clothes. 3. We use a milkman with glass, reusable bottles. 4. We take our water bottles everywhere with us, so there is less need to buy bottled drinks. 5. We avoid coffee shops!

As a family, the journey to being eco-friendly continues, as we are next going to try shampoo and conditioner bars as opposed to bottles and we are investing in a hybrid car.”

Helen, Editor, Families North “In my strive to reduce plastic I now make a point of always looking to find foods, house products, make up etc, packaged in something

other than plastic. We have been encouraged to buy products packaged in plastic when in fact most of them were either previously packaged in recyclable containers and, if you look hard enough, you can still find them today. Think back to the large laundry boxes our mothers had. They are still available in 3.4kg cardboard packages but they are generally hidden away behind the rows of plastic bottles. Plastic soap dispensers are another perfect example. Why did we stop using plain and simple soap bars? The list is endless and with just a few changes you will make a real change.

Another big change has been to shop for fruit and veg from the local fruit and veg market rather than the supermarkets.

Shopping in bulk has also been a wonderful way of reducing plastic.”

Justine McNeil, Balham Street Gardeners

Buying in bulk saves a lot of plastic!

Refill your own detergent bottles ecoBravo.co.uk

“It’s very important to me that the children use re-usable water bottles and I demonstrate this by using my own re-usable coffee cup wherever I go. We also talk about the impact this has on the ocean which my children have a strong connection to as their grandparents live by a beach. We have been reading ‘Harry Saves the Ocean’ which is a great story to teach children about plastic pollution.”

Samantha Wilson With a bit of work and commitment, we can all do our part, not just in July but all year long!

Milk or juice in glass bottles

Compostable coffee pods ravecoffee.co.uk

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Buy your fruit and veg loose

Shampoo bars, toothpaste in jar, bamboo buds

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ENVIRONMENT

Let’s find a solution!

Let’s party waste-free!

If you have children, then you have birthday parties. Parties for your own children and parties for other children.

It can be astonishing how much plastic can be used in one simple party. There are decorations, tablecloths, goodie bags, disposable plates, and cutlery. The list is endless.

Bamboo toothbrushes and toothpaste tablets from plasticfreedom.co.uk

These are some of the plastic free products we use at home. I am currently learning to make my own oat or almond milk and make my own cleaning products with essential oils Pascale Gravell, Editor

Easy does it, introduce one change at a time!

Shaving Soap in a wooden bowl.

100% natural. www.dalit.co.uk

Buy loose fruits and vegetables in cotton bags.

Refill your own detergent bottles https://ecobravo.co.uk

Try solid shampoo bars, Planet Organic, Holland & Barrett etc

Subscription toilet paper, helps build toilets for people who need them, no plastic. https://uk.whogivesacrap.org

Reusable sanitary pads https://ecobravo.co.uk

Bamboo toothbrushes, natural deodorants, shampoo bars etc www.planetorganic.com www.hollandandbarrett.com Pasta, flour, rice, dishwashing powder in a paper box, most supermarkets.

Compostable coffee pods https://ravecoffee.co.uk Start your own food group to buy in bulk www.sumawholesale.com

Mooncup Menstrual Cup www.mooncup.co.uk Period and day to day underwear www.modibodi.co.uk Reusable nappies www.pepicollection.com Recyclable heads for electric toothbrushes www.livecoco.com Subscriptions for bamboo toothbrushes. fromearthtoearth.com/uk

Refill from your local zero waste shop: Planet Organic, Balham & Wandsworth, Sustenance Groceries, Brixton, Zéro, Wimbledon Centre Court Shopping Centre, The Source, Battersea, Healthier Without, Streatham, BYGRAM, Parsons Green, Whole Food Market, Fulham, Clapham Junction & Richmond, BYO, Tooting market.

Why use a soap dispenser when you can use a simple bar of soap

Shampoo or conditioner work just as well as a bar, try it!

www.babipur.co.uk

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And it’s not limited to plastic. Any type of party can create a good amount of rubbish. There are some easy steps you can take to make your next celebration as eco friendly as possible.

Try to avoid anything disposable. That goes for tableware, cutlery, and decorations. There are many options you can use. Try borrowing supplies from a friend and then passing them on. There are bits you can purchase yourself such as glass straws and recyclable cups and tableware.

If this isn’t feasible, there are many services to help you out. Try www.partykitnetwork.org where you can borrow everything you need in one bundle.

You can also score some eco-friendly party needs at www.littlecherry.co.uk Most parents will agree that goodie bags are a nuisance. Now you can make them green too. Skip the plastic and try paper or cloth ones instead. Look for goodies that are not going to be tossed in the trash once home. Try prettylittlepartyshop.co.uk and www.plasticfreepartybags.com Look for an alternative to balloons. Not only do they take forever to break down, but they also pop and then birds and other animals can choke on the pieces. Instead try some biodegradable confetti! Check out www.gingerray.co.uk for some great options.

Drinks and food can use up a lot of packaging. Instead of handing out drink boxes or bottles, try whipping up your own and serving from a central dispenser served in bamboo or paper cups. Serve foods that you can hopefully buy in bulk and do not even require a plate such small finger foods.

It’s not always feasible to make all changes at once, but any small change can make a difference, not only to the planet but your own lifestyle and wellbeing! Your children will thank you for it.

July/August 2021 • Families South West 11

Balham Nursery School and Children’s Centre Free OUTSTANDING nursery education places Please enquire within or call 0208 673 4055 72 Endlesham Road, SW12 8JL

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CLUBS & CLASSES

The importance of specific positive feedback and direct practice The Little Gym will be running classes for children of all ages during the summer break, alongside their camps so parents of little ones as young as 4 months (up to 12 years) will be able to share in the fun! Book just one or a series of classes over the six weeks, to keep them active while learning new skills and just having FUNNNNN! We asked The Little Gym how they encourage positive feedback: “ Positive feedback should be specific to help children fully understand what they are doing well, what their improvements are and most importantly to build the child’s confidence. “Specific Positive Feedback (SPF)” should be accompanied by a “Direct Practice (DP) which is in simple words a

clear and direct instruction to improve the child’s execution of the task.

The most important element comes when the children begin the “DO” they put their fear of failure and uncertainties on the line, they perform the skill and then they look at the instructor as if to say “was that right?” This is the moment we have been waiting to give positive reference/feedback to something specific that was successful about the action/performance. The first thing they hear from us is praise and success (SPF). This is the confidence boost they need to keep developing and trying new things. Right after we will provide (DP) which is something the child will focus on in order to improve the skill.

We have witnessed throughout the last 18 years and with great results how this approach has changed the way children learn and grow in confidence.

With all these the child feels good about the performance and is ready to do more.

Smugglers Way, London SW18 1DB wandsworthfulham.thelittlegym.co.uk

2021 Summer Reading Challenge The Summer Reading Challenge is wonderful scheme encouraging children ages 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal. Our children have read piles of books because of this scheme!

Children's reading can decline during the holidays if they don't have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure. This year’s nature-themed challenge called ‘Wild World Heroes’ will inspire children not only to read books but to discover how they can make a difference to the environment too.

The Challenge will launch in libraries and online on Saturday 10 July www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Children's Classes this summer GetSetGo! is a brand new family club in Putney where you can dig into dozens of exercise classes for kids and grown-ups, dive into swimming lessons and discover interactive play spaces, a dance and martial arts academy, plus baby and toddler groups.

They also have a cafe for tasty brunches, lunches, dinners and a quiet area to concentrate in the dedicated co-working space.

You'll find time for you, time for them – and time together.

Find out more at www.get-set-go.com/club-putney or call them on 0208 050 0070.

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Children must be active this summer

D

uring lockdown, the wellbeing of many families was impacted by a lack of physical activity. To support growing minds, movement and keeping active is essential. Gymfinity in Wandsworth have put health and wellbeing at the heart of what they offer, together with their amazing team of experts in child fitness.

Gymfinity Kids is a unique 11,000 sq. ft facility located on Garratt Lane (above Sainsbury’s) and is home to a gymnastics & ninja club as well as day nursery. On a mission to get kids moving this summer is Club Manager, Zoe, who explains: “All movement is great for making us feel good. So, as well as our gymnastics, ninja and preschool programs we are also running active holiday camps throughout the summer holidays for both members and non-members to join us!”

Your child will love the holiday camps Children between 6–14 years old can look forward to a summer break jam-packed full of action in the holiday camps, taking place Monday–Friday 8.30am–3.30pm. An air track, beams, vault and foam pit are among the stateof-the-art apparatus, with qualified coaches leading the holiday camps and active classes.

Children from walking to 16-years-old can

become members and join a fun structured weekly class designed to progress them through an awards scheme.

A nursery on site Also giving pre-schoolers a giant leap in their early years’ development, the onsite nursery setting takes an all-round approach to child wellbeing rooted in their 3 pillars of excellence which are nourishment, development and movement. The Ofsted registered setting offers spaces for babies to 5 years on both a full and part-time basis, with daily activity in the onsite children’s gym. Open 52 weeks a year, 5 days a week, 7am to 7pm with plenty of parking available as well as 30 minutes free for drop-off and pick-up. Funded OPEN DAY options are also available.

Safety is a clear priority, a video on 17th July their website demonstrates the overnight fogging machines and choreographed health & safety routine to ensure everyone stays safe. www.gymfinitykids.com www.nurseriesbygymfinitykids.com

Helping children believe they can do anything Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

BATTERSEA 07956 288928 battersea@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/battersea

NEW MALDEN 0208 540 7791 newmalden@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/newmalden

FULHAM 07498 213142 fulham@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/fulham

PUTNEY 020 8099 9861 putney@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/putney WIMBLEDON 020 8946 3400 wimbledon@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

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EDUCATION

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EDUCATION

Back to school – get organised now!

By Andrew Campbell For many of us, the summer holidays too often end with a frantic last-minute rush, creating unnecessary stress at a time when our children might be experiencing a degree of anxiety about the school year ahead.

The key to managing a successful and stress-free return to the classroom is getting organised early. Initially the holidays seem like they will last forever but don’t be fooled into complacency.

Before you know it, those school bells will be ringing in your ears again.

Doctor/Dentist/Optician Get these appointments out of the way (or at least booked) early on. Don’t forget many professionals take holidays too so appointments might be hard to get.

Labelling One of the least popular back to school tasks. Make sure to label everything, including individual socks and stationery items. Start early, order or purchase your preferred labelling method and spread the task out to avoid late nights before school starts.

Haircut Phone early to get an appointment for your child close to the start of term. Otherwise you might miss out and have to squeeze in a haircut once school has resumed.

Stationery You may have a list of required stationery from the school that includes pens, pencils, compasses, rulers and protractors. Some of this you may be able to buy cheaply from the school itself; if not, some of the bigger supermarkets sell kits at a good price.

Buy plenty of spares!

School shoes Growing feet need the right footwear and fitting is best left to a qualified shoe fitter who will be able to accommodate for growth.

This means you can shop before the last-minute rush when styles and sizes often sell out.

After school care All schools are required to provide access to wraparound childcare but it’s popular so book early.

Uniforms & sports kit Shop early while stocks last and the summer sales o er early bargains. Find out from your child’s school or other parents how to obtain second hand items or look for unbranded items at supermarkets and other outlets.

After school activities If you child has a hobby, sport or passion they want to pursue then book early to take advantage of free taster classes or early bird discounts.

School admin Fill in any forms the school has asked you to complete.

Getting school ready

Labelling options

End of holiday playdates. Arrange meet ups with school friends your kids haven’t seen. This will help them catch up and ease any friendship apprehensions and anxieties.

Pre-printed sew-on. A traditional choice and the most time consuming but probably the most durable. Likely to last the whole year but do need pre-ordering online. www.cashsnametapes.co.uk Handwritten sew on. A cheap option with kits available at supermarkets. It’s likely you’ll need to repeat after several washes though.

Iron on labels. A much quicker option and reasonably durable, although ironing them on can still take some time so best not left to the last night. www.easy2name.com Clip on labels. These avoid ironing and sewing and are applied using a small plastic clip. www.nametag-it.co.uk Personalised stamps. Super quick and versatile. For use on fabric, metal, wood and some plastics like pencil cases and swimming goggles. www.stamptastic.co.uk Shoe labels. Bright, distinctive shoe labels will help your child find their own pair in a jumble of identical black shoes. www.stuckonyou.uk Sharpie pen. The cheapest option. Requires good technique to get a legible result and is likely to need reapplication after a few washes.

Avoid blisters. Feet which have worn soft summer shoes can find the transition to harder wearing school shoes tricky. Get your kids to wear in their new shoes around the house.

Early to bed… Bring bedtime forward in increments of ten to fifteen minutes every four days, beginning two weeks beforehand, until you are back to normal routine.

Get back in the groove. Dummy run the school morning routine. Get your child up, dressed, breakfasted and out of the house bright and early. Get back to more structured mealtimes and end grazing in between meals.

Dial down the tech. Devices and screens may have been getting a work out during the holidays. Gradually reintroduce limits, especially before bed.

Homework. Decide with your child on the designated place and time for any homework to be completed.

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Why now is the best time to be at nursery school With the Duchess of Cambridge successfully shining the spotlight on the importance of early years education, nursery schools are now offering a remarkable array of learning activities, teaching methods and confidence-boosting outdoor learning curriculums.

The RULER program helps develop emotional intelligence

A

n increasing number of nursery schools—yes even in London— are offering Forest School or at the very least enhanced outdoor learning opportunities to develop independent, confident and creative learners. Outdoor learning enables the introduction of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) popular now at Foundation stage as an educational concept that better prepares for more technologyfocused careers in adulthood.

Also proving popular is the RULER programme, a method that helps children understand their emotions and translate them into actions. As the Duchess of Cambridge’s work has highlighted, experiences between birth and five years old can often have long-standing effects on behaviour in adulthood which makes these approaches to this formative stage of a child’s life incredibly important. These years are called the Foundation stage for a reason—this is the time to lay down core values and principles that they take forward for the rest of their life.

Outdoor learning brings life-long benefits Research made by educators, psychologists and social scientists has proved that outdoor learning has many benefits. Connecting with nature and the outside world has been shown to boost academic learning and child development and encourage learning through observation, investigation and collaborative problem solving. It also encourages a connection to our environment and a responsibility to the world and its climate.

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Children are closer to nature in a Forest School

Searching for bugs in the undergrowth, making mud pies, building dens are all activities that help develop a sense of curiosity, awe and wonder in our children.

Alice Clark, owner of The Willow Nursery in Grafton Square and The Willow On The Farm Nursery in Oxfordshire is a passionate advocate of the Forest School approach and Outdoor Learning and says: “I cannot stress enough how important outdoor learning is for early years teaching. For some children of this age to have the freedom of learning outside can make all the difference in their future—children who find it difficult to concentrate in the classroom, or those that are shy or nervous, really benefit.”

Making mud pies!

The acronym stands for - Recognising emotions in yourself and others - Understanding the causes and consequences of emotions - Labelling emotions accurately—if you can name it, you can tame it - Expressing emotions appropriately - Regulating emotions effectively. The children talk about how they and their friends are feeling by using the colour-coded ‘Mood Meter’. They might be ‘blue’ (sad, tired, low mood) so how can they become ‘yellow’ (brave, calm, positive). Threaded into all aspects of a nursery day it enables the children to deal effectively with their relationships and be aware of those around them.

The Willow Nursery in SW4 has recently transformed part of its outdoor space into a Forest School play area and is offering regular sessions from September 2021. Led by The Willow On The Farm’s Forest School Leader, Harriet, the children will learn to connect with nature, understand the changing seasons and weather patterns, grow their own flowers and vegetables and explore the habitats of animals and insects

As Alice Clark says of the children at her schools: “I feel that if I have enhanced their Outdoor Learning experience and STEM provision, provided them with the tools to understand and communicate their emotions and offered them a fun and happy environment to learn in, it will surely lead to confident, resilient children ready to move on to big school and life thereafter with a wealth of life-affirming, happy memories!!”

Amazing RULER program builds resilience and self-esteem The RULER programme helps to develop the emotional intelligence and well-being of everyone within a nursery. Created by the Yale Centre for Emotional Intelligence in the US, it has been built on decades of evidence based research.

The Willow Nursery School, established for over 30 years, is an independent, privately-owned nursery school situated at 55 Grafton Square, SW4 in the heart of Clapham Old Town. 020 7498 0319 thewillownursery.co.uk

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CLUBS & CLASSES

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CLUBS AND CLASSES

Starting school post-pandemic

By Victoria Goodson, Head of Prep, Sydenham High Prep School

S

tarting school is an important and exciting milestone in the lives of young children. Since March 2020, life has changed considerably, and as three and four year olds look ahead to starting Reception in September, their schools will be fully aware that their new joiners will undoubtedly have had varying Early Years experiences over this past year as a result of the current pandemic.

The summer is a great time for parents to start building the positive foundations for this exciting new chapter and there are several things that parents can do to support a smooth transition when their child starts school in September.

Develop confidence: Many schools will hold orientation sessions for their new pupils ahead of the start of term. Whilst these sessions may

20 Families South West • July/August 2021

be virtual, they will still provide children with increased familiarity with the school setting and can inspire greater confidence when these children start school.

Develop friendships: Building friendships provides an extra layer of confidence as your child starts school. Whilst it may not be possible to meet up in person ahead of the start of term, parents could ask their child’s new school whether any other new pupils live near them and if possible, make contact for a virtual meet up.

Develop Social and Communication Skills: For many children, opportunities for developing social and communication skills will have been more limited over this past year. Regularly reading to your child will help them to develop their listening skills and to build vocabulary.

Providing your child with opportunities to share

and take turns at home will undoubtedly help your child when starting school.

Develop skills: Valuable skills include being able to go to the bathroom, feeding, dressing and undressing independently and knowing how to ask for help when needed.

Develop routines: Starting school can be tiring for young children so ensuring that your child is in a good bedtime routine before starting school is important. In the weeks leading up to the start of school, encourage your child to go to bed at the time he or she will be going to bed during term time.

To find out what makes us special, take a look at our website and contact us by emailing admissions@syd.gdst.net to find out more about what we could offer your four year old this September.

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EDUCATION

Mind the gap: why Summer learning is important

By Andrew Campbell Parents face a confusing dilemma this summer holidays with seemingly conflicting opinions being o ered on how children should occupy the long summer break.

It is widely acknowledged that children experienced significant setbacks to their educational progress as a result of the pandemic and Ofsted has published a series of reports detailing the impact of school closures. Children hardest hit by the Covid restrictions regressed during the pandemic, with some who were potty-trained pre-lockdown reverting to nappies and dummies, and others forgetting basic numbers. Older children lost physical fitness as well as reading and writing skills with the impact worse for disadvantaged children.

In addition to a ‘Covid attainment gap,’ children now face the prospect of a further loss of knowledge and academic skills during the summer holidays. Longstanding research has established that most children experience a ‘summer learning loss’ when they return to school after the long break. Sometimes referred to as the ‘summer brain drain’, summer learning loss is defined as a loss of knowledge and academic skills over the long summer period.

A systematic review of thirty nine studies found summer learning loss equalled about one month of classroom learning, and students tended to regress more in maths skills compared to reading skills.

So there seems to be a compelling case for parents to take action to prevent their child su ering a major setback to their

educational and emotional development as a result of the combined e ects of Covid and the long summer break.

On the other hand, there is a persuasive stance being advocated by child development experts who say that children need a ‘summer of play’ to recover from the stress of lockdown and a year of Covid upheaval. A group of academics calling themselves PlayFirstUK have warned that intensive ‘catch-up’ plans, intended to help children make up lost ground, could end up worsening children’s mental health and wellbeing and have a negative e ect on learning in the long term.

Whilst there is understandable concern about children’s education, they will not learn e ectively if their mental health is poor. Social interaction, play, physical activity and good mental health need to come first, according to PlayFirstUK. But is it really such a stark choice between a ‘summer of fun’ and a ‘summer of catch up?’ Not if you can make learning a fun part of your child’s summer.

Check out our ideas below.

Fun number activities

More learning activities

Lemonade stand. Team up with a local charity to raise money. Younger kids can measure ingredients and count money. Older kids can set a price by working out the cost per serving and setting a profit margin. A council permit may be required.

Go to the summer sales. Take your young one to the summer sales and ask them to work out the savings. For example, if £25 item has fifty percent o , how much does it cost? Set them a budget so they have to monitor money spent and money remaining.

Bob the builder time. Embark on a construction project.

Whether it’s a bird house or a treasure box, children will have to use a range of maths skills to get the job done.

Gather and sort rocks. Starting a rock collection will introduce your child to geology AND reinforce basic maths skill. They can classify rocks by grouping them – large or small, smooth, jagged or speckled etc. Older children can go one step further and speculate on how the rock was formed.

Study shadows. Have fun in the sun with the physics of shadows. Ask your child to look at their shadow at di erent times of day to show the connection between its position in the sky and the length of their shadow. Use chalk or a stick in the sand to trace their shadow, showing how it shrinks and grows with time.

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Make your own audiobook. Practise reading a favourite story with your child until they feel comfortable with it.

Practise in di erent voices and get silly! Fire up the audio recorder on your device and record the results. Play the recording back so your child can hear how they sound.

Go day-tripping. Zoos or aquariums are packed with science learning opportunities. Similarly, local castles or stately homes can be a three-dimensional history lesson (with a picnic bonus if it’s a nice day).

Encourage creative play. The rigid structure of school life often struggles to facilitate imaginative play. So delve into imaginary worlds this holiday - a box of dressing-up props can be a great starting place.

July/August 2021 • Families South West 21

22 Families South West • July/August 2021

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EDUCATION

Stepping up to secondary school

By Clare Cogan The summer term is drawing to a close and our year six children are preparing for their transition to secondary school.

This can be a challenging time, even without the disruptions of the past year.

Common worries and concerns can include the increase in independence your child will be expected to have, whether they will be with their friends, and even how they will find their way around a much bigger school.

It’s likely that your child’s current school will be helping them prepare for these challenges, but there are some things you can also do to help your child’s transition go as smoothly as possible for them (and you)!

Children’s can feel anxious without realising and sometimes hold these feelings inside. Rather than asking if they are worried about anything, talk to them about change being exciting but scary too. Explain that this is because their brain needs to get used to a new place and way of doing things when it was very comfortable with the old way. Talking about their feelings, using an example of how you or an older sibling felt in their shoes, can help them feel confident that they have the resources to manage and that feeling anxious is okay.

Friendships can be a challenge when moving to secondary school. You’re likely to see your child’s friendships transition and change and this can be hard for parents, especially as we won’t necessarily know their new friends. This is part of their increasing independence as they move into the teen years.

Parents and carers are ideally placed to help navigate the move to secondary school. Practical preparations, as well as

conversations which help your child remember times when they may have felt nervous before and managed it well, can also help them see that they can feel anxious but still have a good experience. There will be tough times ahead, but also fun times too as you watch your child grow in independence and confidence and find their feet.

Try to keep your own focus on the opportunities rather than the challenges and help your child face any potential issues by equipping them with the understanding of what they can do to build resourcefulness and resilience.

Remember that it can take your child a while to settle in at their new school and that the school is there to deal with concerns.

Encourage your child to take worries or issues to their form teacher in the first instance. Many issues can be easily resolved in this way.

Clare Cogan is a Teenage Anxiety Specialist who works with parents and their teens to help them understand how their mind a ects their mood.

More information at www.clarecogan.com

Managing friendships

Practical steps

Friendship challenges and changes are common when transitioning to secondary school. Here are five ways you can support your child.

Do the walk, (car or bus journey) to school with your child.

This helps them visualise what it will be like, and how long it will take and helps them understand the importance of managing their time so they are ready to leave on time, rather than waiting for you to tell them when it is time to go.

Talk to your child about their current friendships and what they like about the people they spend time with. Help them appreciate that friends are people we feel good about being around and not people who leave us feel worried or upset after spending time with them.

Talk about their own good and special qualities and what makes them a good friend to have.

Ask them what advice they would give to another child who was worried about making friends in a new school.

Remind your child that even if they are in a class without anyone they know, other children will be in the same situation. Help them imagine how another child would feel if they smiled and said hello.

Remember that who your child chooses to be friends with is out of your control and that this is a normal and important part of development, even though it can be hard at times!

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Let them build up their confidence walking to and from their existing school, if they don’t already. If you drive, maybe park a bit further away and arrange for them to meet a friend and walk the rest of the way. This will help them become more familiar with paying attention to what’s around them, roads and tra ic included.

Help them to start to understand what they need to do to get ready for school every day. A checklist on the fridge with all the prompts and reminders will help them start to get into the routine and reduce the likelihood of things being forgotten.

Remember that it can take your child a while to settle in at their new school and that the school is there to deal with concerns. Encourage your child to take worries or issues to their form teacher in the first instance. Many issues can be easily resolved in this way July/August 2021 • Families South West 23

We are still accepting Nursery places for September 2021 A forward thinking, successful and joyful school based in Putney, where diversity is prized and everyone is valued.

We cultivate strong, open, warm and supportive relationships between children and staff where children feel confident to thrive in their learning.

School Visits: 1:1 tours by appointment www.stjosephs.wandsworth.sch.uk admin@stjosephs.wandsworth.sch.uk 0208 874 1888

“Bilingual primary in the heart of Wandsworth where creativity and individual talents are nourished” • New primary school for all children from the local and wider community • Innovative curriculum underpinned by the values of the UK national curriculum and global pedagogical approaches • Strong focus on developing creativity and children’s individual interests • Exceptional language provision • Club provision offering a range of enrichment opportunities

Facilities: Two outdoor areas and a covered area for the Early Years Brand new classrooms and equipment for all year groups Large gymnasium and a performance room State of the art play decks for every key stage Fully equipped music room sponsored by the Gulbenkian Institute, Lisbon

info@angloportugueseschool.org | https://angloportugueseschool.org Wandsworth High Street (South Thames College site), SW18 2PP | 020 3417 0905 24 Families South West • July/August 2021

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Could you be a Wandsworth Foster Carer?

Every child is unique and deserves the best care possible in a secure and loving home. Fostering is incredibly rewarding for those who open their homes to a child. Here three families share with Families South West their experiences of fostering.

Lynne wanted to provide a warm and loving environment Lynne and Andrew have three grown up children, one who lives at home and their dog.

They have been fostering for 12 years and they welcomed a girl into their family three years ago and a young boy more recently.

Lynne had been fostered as a child, and knew exactly the warm, loving environment she wanted to create. “I remember the day we met the first 7 year old who was coming to live with us. He sat on the stairs crying, angry and frustrated. I made this big fry up and took it to him, asking do you want some…? To which he replied yes! Food definitely supported our break through moment.”

Lynne feels very well supported financially by Wandsworth, stating it covers everything you need, plus extra allowances for birthdays.

Stability, Loving, Understanding are the three traits children said were the most important in a foster family. Does this sound like you?

We created life long bonds Don’t be scared by the challenge Shiva has a 15 year old son and has been a foster carer for eight years. She currently has a 7 year old and a 7 month old who has been in her care since birth. “I wanted to wait until my son was old enough to understand what fostering was. I started the process when he was 6 years old and had our first foster child by the time he was 7. I have seen the positive impact fostering has had on him, he is very grateful and has a strong understanding of giving and not just wanting.”

Shiva remembers “There was both lots of laughter and tears throughout the process…. reflecting on my own childhood was nice.

Everyone made me feel at ease, and I never felt rushed through the process.”

Shiva explained that every child has his own challenges, but “don’t be scared by the challenge. The Fostering Team is outstanding and very supportive.” From fostering peers to the social workers, “everyone feels like my family in Wandsworth Fostering now.”

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Fostering was the start of a journey for

Scott who moved from a job in the city Scott and his wife Amy have to be a Work Coach in Kingston. two birth children aged 9 “Be patient, gain their He commented that “this is the and 13, as well as a dog, trust, put yourself in their most mentally stretched I have rat and hamster. A 16 shoes. Be there for them. ever been, in the best possible year old young person way. It has significantly Wandsworth has was placed in their improved my life and has care after arriving in beautiful children who allowed me to understand Wandsworth as an need our help. Open that everyone sees and Asylum Seeker, and your heart and door and experiences the world in a they currently have a they will help you in your fundamentally different way.” teenage girl who is own journey.” preparing to move Wandsworth is committed to onto independent adult Shiva, Foster ensuring that all children who are life. “It’s not a job, you Carer for 8 years unable to live with their birth can’t leave it at 5pm. But families are cared for locally in we quickly learnt, knowing we Wandsworth communities—particularly could pick up the phone any time teenagers who are often at the most crucial for support and advice.” crossroads in life.

When asked about their proudest moment Scott immediately said: “After 6 months the first boy we had hugged me for the first time and said he didn’t want to leave our family. We had a very special bond in the end and he still comes over for dinner.”

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Please ring 020 8871 6666 to find out more or visit #lovetofoster website for more information fostering.wandsworth.gov.uk

July/August 2021 • Families South West 25

TOP

10

MUST-DO ACTIVITIES THIS SUMMER

By Melissa Reynolds

The warm summer months don’t last long, so it’s smart to make the most of them. Families has found ten great places and activities to help you enjoy all that London and nearby has to offer.

Enchanted Leonardslee

Get out on the water

What could be better than a stroll through an enchanted woodland trail on the beautiful Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens? See unicorns, dragons, mystical creatures, circus performances as well as rides, live music, street theatre and more. 30th July to 1st August 1st, and then from 6-8 August.

Little ones will love: a ride on a baby unicorn! What could be more magical than that? Book ahead to avoid disappointment. www.enchantedleonardslee.co.uk

What says summer like a water adventure? Paddleboard, sail, canoe or kayak your way through London’s different lakes and rivers. Check out Wimbledon Park Watersports for both children and adults. Albany Park Canoe and Sailing Centre or even GoBoat London for a relaxing day on the water.

Little ones will love: The feel of being out on the water. Older ones, age 10 and up, will enjoy learning a new skill on their own!

GoBoat

Treasure Trails

London Wetland Centre

Did you know there are dozens of treasure trails throughout London and the rest of the UK? Simply visit www.treasuretrails.co.uk, select your trail such as Wimbledon, Putney Bridge, Battersea Bridge and more. Follow the trail and solve the clues along the way to learn more about where you live.

Treasure Trails are themed self-guided booklets, costing £9.99.

Little ones will love: For little ones it’s like a treasure hunt, for older ones it’s almost like being a detective. A great time out for everyone.

Explore over 100 acres of nature reserve full of trails, open fields, ponds, and an abundance of wildlife.

Check the website for special walks and activities.

Little ones will love: Adventure Playground is full of fun with a zip wire and climbing wall, not to mention the Wild Walk. www.wwt.org.uk

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Horse riding

Battersea Park children’s zoo

London is full of places to take in a four-legged ride.

Whether new to riding or an old hand, it can be a great way to experience the outdoors.

Not too big but not too small, Battersea Zoo is a great time out for little ones. With otters, donkeys, monkeys, guinea pigs and more, there is a lot to see and do. There is also lots of fun to be had in the adventure playground with climbing, swinging, riding and more!

Little ones will love: Seeing all the animals and observing feeding times when restrictions ease. www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

Check out Stag Lodge Stables, Wimbledon Village Stables, Hyde Park Stables, Dulwich Riding school and many more.

Little ones will love: Learning to ride first on the Wimbledon Village Stables ride simulator and getting to meet the Fantastic Mr. Fudge, their Shetland mascot!

Wimbledon Village stables

Geocaching London

Outdoor cinema

What could be better than finding real hidden treasure? Give geocaching a try and find out! Using a GPS your family can find and hide containers at specific locations. Popular London spots include the Palace of Westminster, The British Library, The Royal Observatory.

Little ones will love: Finding the hidden treasure! www.geocaching.com

Watching a good movie as a family never gets old. In nice summer weather, why not take it outside? London is full of options including Luna Cinema, The Drive In and Backyard Cinema.

Forest for change

Tee Time

You may not have to venture far out of London to find some forest fun this summer. In the courtyard of Somerset House there are now 400 trees that visitors can wander through. The middle holds an installation of the United Nations’ 17 Global Goals for Sustainable Development. Later, the trees will be donated to London boroughs for planting.

Little ones will love: Finding a forest right in the city! Plus, it’s part of a strong message on sustainable development.

Golfing can be a great way to have fun outdoors and learn a new sport.

Little ones will love: There is nothing better than a movie as a family, and little ones will love the change of venue!

London holds lots of golfing locations including Plonk Golfing on the South Bank, Putt in the Park Wandsworth, Jungle rumble in Putney or Jurassic Encounter in New Malden. Fore!

Little ones will love: Mastering a new skill and getting the ball into the hole.

A great way to work some fine motor skills.

Jungle Rumble, Putney

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Summer Holiday Activities

Phew … We’ve worked hard to find all these places for you.

When making contact please say you found them in Families South West.

We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed. Please double check event with the organisers to avoid disappointment.

See the first part of this listing with even more companies offering summer courses, including Chelsea Young Writers, Little House of Science, SW Swim School, Naomi Touch Typing, Firetech, Kids en Cuisine, Funky Monkey, Upbeat Music, Et Patati and more, here: http://bit.ly/HolActsPart1

Picasso in the Park Barnes 26&27 July and Oval 29&30 July www.picassosinthepark.com Your child will learn about the inspirations and influences of iconic artists and explore their own creativity to produce masterpieces in different styles and mediums, working in both 2D (drawing, collage and painting) and 3D.

Art

Dance

Art4Space

BE.Dance

31 Jeffreys Road SW4 6QU www.art4space.co.uk A community arts organisation that puts visual arts at the centre of everything they do. Summer workshops using a wide variety of materials including recycled art, withy, clay or paint. They also sell great mosaic and art boxes to do at home.

Alderbrook School, Oldridge Rd, SW12 8PP 07545 697352 www.bedance.co.uk 26-30 July A dynamic week of dance with classes in commercial, musical theatre, lyrical, creative, stretch and tap, plus lots more fun and games! There will be a sharing of work at the end of the week. 714yrs. £175 for the week. 9am4.30pm

Art K

Day Activities RHS Garden Wisley www.rhs.org.uk/wisley 22 July–31 August Wonderland Step into a garden adventure with Alice in Wonderland this summer as illustrator Chris Riddell celebrates 150 years of the Macmillan Alice. Enjoy topsy-turvy installations and curiously crafted events throughout the holidays.

Family activities include a garden adventure trail, planting workshops, craft activities, storytelling and more.

Normal garden admission applies.

Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf

Tried and tested

by Irene Bausas

putney.junglerumble.co.uk “Putney High Street is a great place to spend a few hours with family and friends. Our group of 5 enjoyed the three different golf courses. The venue is indoor so appropriate for all weather. It is recommended for children over 4 years old so they can follow the game. Our favourite was

the neon under the sea theme which was in a dark room and everything turned neon when you come in. Try it for child’s birthday party or even a mum’s night out!

They have a good menu of pizzas, burgers, toasties and even draft beer. There’s a bar onsite (as they get really lively at night) but that means there’s cocktails and beers all day if you want it.”

London Wetland Centre Queen Elizabeth Walk, Barnes Book Online www.wwt.org.uk An oasis of wild adventures for children. LEGO brick fans will enjoy exploring The GIANT LEGO® Brick Animal Trail at this incredible nature reserve, to find all of the 14 characters. Wetland Explorers are back from 24 July to 4 September.

Take part on the fun-filled activities, from pond dipping to an intrepid scavenger hunt, 105 acres of awardwinning nature reserve to explore and plenty of wildlife just waiting to be discovered.

Clapham and Wandsworth www.art-kclapham.class4kids.co.uk 14 of July–27 August Summer holiday workshops using clay, acrylics, watercolours, paper sculpture etc. 6-16 years

Jigsaw Arts Chestnut Grove Academy, SW12 8JZ www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk 26 July-30 July A weeklong summer school packed full of fun and exciting performing arts activities perfect for building your child’s confidence and making new friends. 3-16yrs.

Lavender Leonardos RHS Garden, Wisley

Lavender Hill, SW11 5QL www.lavenderleonardos.art In person and online art classes, 6yrs and above. Group workshops, private tuition, parties & adult classes too.

Paint Pots The Boltons, London, SW10 9TB lucy@paint-pots.co.uk www.paint-pots.co.uk 12-30 July Popular Summer Fun holiday classes for children aged from 12 months to 6 years. Children will enjoy a blend of art, craft and music as well as science experiments, cooking and more fun activities. Accompanied and non-accompanied sessions. familiesonline.co.uk

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July/August 2021 • Families South West 29

Ages 3-10yrs s Childrens Multi-Sport & Activity Camp

SUMMER CAMPS

WE ACC EPT CHI LDC ARE VOU CHE RS

TH MONDAY 12 TH JULY - FRIDAY 27 AUGUST

Times: 8.15am - 5.15pm (Half day options of 8.30am -12:30pm & 1pm - 5pm available)

Summer Performing Arts Camp Fulham

Price: £25 p/half day, £49 p/full day

Build your child’s confidence and life skills through singing, drama and dance.

020 8088 0113 swl@littlevoices.org.uk www.littlevoices.org.uk 30 Families South West • July/August 2021

Putney (ages 3-10 yrs) St Josephs RC Primary School, 90 Oakhill Road, SW15 2QD

AGES

5-11

Filmed performance on final day.

Moana: Lion King: High School Musical: Trolls:

Wimbledon (ages 3-10 yrs) The Priory CofE Primary School, Queens Road, SW19 8LX

26-29 July 2-5 August 16-19 August 23-26 August

SMALL GROUPS

VENUES

Clapham (ages 3-7 yrs)

St Lukes Community Hall, Ramsden Rd, SW12 8RQ

40%

Balham (ages 3-10 yrs) Alderbrook Primary School, Oldridge Road, SW12 8PP

FR IDAYS

ALL SES SIO NS DIS COU NTE D BY 40%

Clapham Common (ages 3-10yrs) Belleville Wix Academy, Wix Lane, SW4 0AJ

Clapham Junction (ages 3-10 yrs) Belleville Primary School NEW VENUE *Honeywell Primary School*

9 3.30PM

Contact Youngstars on 07749 343116 or 0845 222 1313.

E: campbookings@young-stars.co.uk www.young-stars.co.uk

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES Sixes Cricket Club 18 Farm Lane, London, SW6 1PP To book: www.sixescricket.com “After a very difficult winter, we needed to have a Tried & family fun day out and tested by we couldn’t find a roving mum Noemi Garcia better place. We played indoors Cricket using a cricket simulator for an hour then enjoyed the fantastic gastropub inspired classics food with some cocktails and ice creams on the terrace under the bright spring sun.

As my older daughter said: “The best day ever! It is a place for everyone: Adults can drink, eat and play, watch TV matches; whereas kids play and have fun, having different and fun birthday parties, drinking cocktails with friends.”

Alma house and deli A kids wellbeing space in SW1 www.almadeli.com An initiative to create and support consciousness from a young age.

Check their summer programme, usually offering a huge range of classes from yoga and chanting, singing bowls, gardening, sensory mess etc

Developing skills Chelsea Young Writers Online and in person info@chelseayoungwriters.co.uk www.chelseayoungwriters.co.uk Designed to stimulate 10% children's creative discount thinking and improve with code their creative writing FSW10 skills in a fun and entertaining way. Children will

have fun exploring new ideas, whilst developing creative skills. All courses are led by expert, friendly tutors and are designed to inspire creative writing and stimulate imagination.

Mathnasium 122 Northcote Road, SW11 6QU www.mathnasium.co.uk Summer math Bootcamp or 11+ Maths Booster.

The Royal Institution www.rigb.org 8-11 July This year the Royal Society’s popular Summer Science Exhibition is going totally digital.

With a packed programme of free inspiring talks, fascinating interactive workshops, fun science from home activities and exciting digital content, there is something for all ages.

Young Film Academy Miniversity Chelsea Academy www.miniversity.com Children will learn about various careers through the use of ICT.

Sixes Cricket

www.youngfilmacademy.co.uk Online, in person and residential courses for 8-17yrs.

Sparks4Kids

Singing & Drama

Sparks4kids

Let’s Act Drama School

computer workshop Online 020 8090 1444, www.spark4kids.com Spark4Kids online Summer computer coding & touch-typing workshops are designed to teach children key digital skills, including Minecraft modding, Roblox coding, Python coding, website, and games design in a fun, engaging environment. Ages 6-8, 9-12, and 13+, all levels and abilities welcome.

Term-time online classes and DofE (Skills) courses also available - see website for more details.

Wimbledon, Clapham, Earlsfield 020 3858 6444 www.letsactdramaclasses.co.uk 26-30 July & 23-27 August Children will have the best week building confidence, making friends and creating a piece of film they will have to keep forever!

Each camp is limited to 10 children and everyone gets a part with lines.

Children work on a show which will be filmed to be showcased to family. 4-12yrs.

Sparks Film & Media Arts Balham, Dulwich and Kensington www.sparksarts.co.uk Action-packed moviemaking camps. Throughout the week, they’ll direct, shoot and crew each of their scenes, working together as a team.

Little Voices St Etheldreda Church, SW6 6JF 020 8088 0113 www.littlevoices.org.uk Four days of singing, drama and dance, working towards a professionally-filmed performance.

Moana: 26-29 July; Lion King: 2-5 August; High School Musical: 16-19 Aug; Trolls: 23-26 Aug.

Let’s Act

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Now booking ahead

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES Small group sizes, allowing everyone a chance to shine! 9am3.30pm each day. Age 5-11 Yrs. £240 per child (childcare vouchers accepted, sibling discounts)

Perform Many venues enquiries@perform.org.uk. www.perform.org.uk Your child will enjoy the colourful topsy-turvy world of Alice in Wonderland and join the White Rabbit, the Queen of Hearts and Alice herself in this magical adventure. 4-10 years. 5 days.

10am-3pm each day.

Polka Theatre Box Office on 020 8545 8320 www.polkatheatre.com Crazy Characters, 24 Aug, 4-6yrs 10am-12.30pm; 7-9yrs 2-4.30pm. £25.

Polka Puppets 25 Aug, 7-9yrs 10am-4pm. £45 Move to the Beat dance workshop 26 Aug 4-6yrs 10am-12.30pm; 7-9yrs 2-4.30pm. £25 Polka Youth Theatre Summer School 9–12yrs wanted to join the Youth Theatre and be the very first performers in their Main Theatre following 2-year refurbishment.

23-27 Aug 10am-4pm.

Performance: Sun 12 September on Polka’s Main Stage!

Razzamataz Wimbledon Sherwood Park Hall, CR4 1JP wimbledon.razzamataz.co.uk 26-30 July Looking to build your child’s confidence after lockdown?

Join in the very exciting Moanainspired Summer School. 10am 1pm each day, 4-8 years. £120. To include an end of school performance.

Stagecoach Battersea Honeywell School, SW11 6EF www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea 07956 288928 26-30 July Put on an amateur production of Matilda the musical (in 20 minutes) an abridged version of Roald Dahl’s Matilda the musical.

Led by professional theatre practitioners. Small, safe classes; big, creative dreams! 4-6 years: 9.30-12.30pm (£160); 7-16 yrs: 10am-4pm (£225)

Stagecoach Fulham Lady Margaret's School, SW6 www.stagecoach.co.uk 07498 213142 26-30 July Over five exciting, action-packed days, students will rediscover the joys of dancing, drama and music with new and old friends. Working towards a showcase performance, their energetic professional practitioners will nurture creativity and confidence. Workshops are extremely popular and have limited spaces, APPLY NOW to avoid disappointment!

Stagecoach, Fulham

A guilt-free childcare solution to try today CocoRio matches families with fully-vetted creative professionals, including musicians, dancers and actors, for smarter child care solutions. Think: your child’s favourite creative class, but in your home and entirely tailored to them. Plus all your childcare duties, also taken care of! Private parties and group sessions are also available indoors and outdoors, perfect for the summer months.

Creativity is an incredible tool to look after our mental and physical health, so rest assured knowing your children are engaging in meaningful activities while you are busy (or taking a well deserved break!). As we emerge from a series of lockdowns, CocoRio sitters accompany the development of your child’s fine motor, language, communication and social skills with tailored, creative and multilingual activities!

Visit https://cocorio.co.uk or contact the team today on 020 8126 5577 or info@cocorio.co.uk

Languages Alpine French School Morzine, France juniors@alpinefrenchschool.com alpinefrenchschool.com Go to Morzine in the beautiful

French Alps, to a French family camp..... the perfect mix of French workshops and activities for children.

Adult courses are also available, or parents can hike or join other activities or simply relax.

Stagecoach, Battersea

Alice in Wonderland, Perform

Razzamataz

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July/August 2021 • Families South West 33

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

For mums

Multi Activity Camps Archy Events Battersea Park

Busylizzy Earlsfield www.busylizzy.co.uk/earlsfield.

St John the Divine Church, Garratt Lane, SW18 4EH A boutique club providing fitness classes for new mums, interactive baby classes, and relaxing classes for mums to be. There is no-need for childcare as baby comes too.

Members love the flexibility they offer and the ability to mix and match the range of classes they decide to attend. Classes run for 51 weeks of the year. FREE trial class.

Too busy? Need help? maria.lifestyle.pa@gmail.com www.marialifestylepa.com Maria is an experienced lifestyle Personal Assistant & Virtual Assistant for busy urban families or professionals. She could take care of your Personal/Business admin/VA, organise/declutter your home, cook or bake for you, run errands or arrange travel. Bliss…

Archie@archyevents.co.uk www.archyevents.co.uk 12-16 July A super exciting summer holiday club lined up for your 4-15yr olds. Every day will be action packed and hold different activities from sports coaching to water balloon wars, to massive code-breaking quests. £65 per day or £295 for the week.

Kids Bop Club

Youngstars

West Hill Primary School, SW18 5ST www.kidsbop.org 2-27 August Arts & crafts, singing, dancing, acting, circus skills, sports, yoga and mindfulness. 8:30am3:30pm (optional wraparound care until 5:30pm). Choose three or four days if you can’t make the full week. From £70-£205 per child, depending on age, number of days and wraparound care

Wimbledon, Putney, Clapham, Balham 07749 343116 www.young-stars.co.uk All sessions 12-27 August Multi on Fridays are sport and activity discounted by camps guaranteed 40%! fun through games, sports, arts & craft. All inclusive and non competitive, designed to improve co-ordination, awareness and motor skills. £49 full day, £25 half day. Ages 3-10yrs.

Paradise Wild Camp Beaumont Many venues www.campbeaumont.co.uk Multi activity day camps for 3-16yrs.

Crazy Camps Balham, Clapham, Earlsfield, Tooting 020 8609 8310 www.CrazyCamps.co.uk 27 July-27 August Activities include: laser tag, arts and craft, archery, dodgeball, pedal go-kart races, football, nerf wars, yoga, races, cricket, baseball, rugby etc in a safe and inclusive environment. Highly qualified staff, low adult to child ratios. From £22 per day, childcare vouchers and tax free childcare payments welcome. Book early to avoid disappointment.

Wandsworth, SW18 @paradisewildwandsworth An outdoor adventurous after school and Holiday club. They connect children to nature and develop bushcraft skills, risk taking and exploring.

Ultimate Activity Camps Fulham and Kingston www.ultimateactivity.co.uk Outstanding Ofsted-regulated activity day camps for children aged 4-14 years during the summer holidays. With over 40 fantastic age-specific activities on offer it’s a great opportunity to try new activities and make new friends.

Sport 12 Rounds Boxing Gym Clapham Junction www.12roundsboxing.co.uk 26-30 July and 2-6 August. Boost your child’s confidence this summer by introducing them to boxing. Daily sessions, taught by fully qualified boxing coaches, include boxing drills and fitness games alongside learning the foundations and discipline of boxing. 7-15yrs, £75.

Boom Boom Fitness Wimbledon Park Sarah@boomboomfitness.co.uk 07974 161226

Calling all young Scientists!

Help us discover how babies & kids learn!

We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s Babylab & ToddlerLab in central London.

Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses.

We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies

020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Please tell advertisers you found them in Families 34 Families South West • July/August 2021

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28 July.

Netball camps for years 3-6. Suitable for beginners to intermediate. One day £50, 6 days £200. 9am-3pm.

age 5+ including a daily swimming lesson. Also 5-day intensive swimming courses.

Gymfinity BHFC Battersea Battersea Park All Weather Pitch www.bhfcbattersea.co.uk.

If you’re looking for your children to play football, then look no further!

They are a long-established Football Club in the heart of Battersea, offering team building, competitive and elite sessions to suit all ages and abilities. If you want a professional, structured, family environment do check them out.

Flying Fantastic Waterloo, Wimbledon www.ffyc.co.uk 26-30 July & 2-6 August A whole week of upside-down! No experience needed to run away with this circus. An epic Aerial Adventure for ages 7-14yrs. You’ll learn tricks on silks, hoop, trapeze and slings, and we’ll even get you bouncing on bungees! 10am-4pm £350

Fun Soccer School SW18 funsoccerschool.co.uk To book a place call 07946731463

FC Battersea Falcon Park 3G venue Email procamp@fcbattersea.com to book and claim a 15% discount Wc 26 July and Wc 9 August. The successful PRO CAMP is running again over two weeks of summer soccer fun. High 15% disciount for performance football camp for girls & boys, Families readers ages 8-14yrs. Mon-Fri: 9.30am to 2.45pm.

GetSetGo! Upper Richmond Rd, SW15 2TR www.get-set-go.com 020 8050 0070 “Make sure you visit this fantastic space near Putney High Street. We spent half a day with the children just playing in the lovely cafe and then we all went for a family swim. It was a great Tried and option on a rainy tested for summer’s day. If you by Irene you would like to Bausas get work done, there’s a quieter coworking space for parents. Amazing birthday parties—with bubble machine and disco!”

Throughout August Multi-activity holiday clubs for guaranteed excitement, fun and friendship. The very best of their clubs and classes on offer pulled together to offer an inspirational week of activities from familiesonline.co.uk

45 Garratt Lane, Wandsworth info@gymfinitykids.com www.gymfinitykids.com Gymfinity Kids are on a mission to get kids moving during the school breaks with active holiday camps. They welcome both members and nonmembers aged 6–14yrs to a holiday camp jam-packed full of action in a state-of-the-art 11,000 sq. ft. facility.

Fun activities like arts & crafts workshops as Use well as getting the promo code chance to use FAMILY specialist gymnastics equipment, ninja obstacle courses, giant air tracks and much more.

Muddy Knees Tooting and Wandsworth Commons 07821 378 898 www.muddykneeskidsrugby.com A range of games and activities that challenge children and introduce them to principles such as teamwork, respect and discipline in fun-filled sessions.

The Little Gym

The Little Gym Smugglers Way, SW18 1DB 020 8874 6567 www.wandsworthfulham.thelittlegy m.co.uk Three hours of exciting, creative fun where your kids can exercise their muscles, imaginations and brains.

The Super Quest Camps (3-8yrs) are all about fun and adventure, while the Skill Thrill Camps build skills & confidence in the older kids (6-12yrs).

From 4mths-12yrs.

Price offer: Buy 6 pay x 5.

Netball Coach UK Wandsworth and Fulham www.netballcoachuk.com 19-28 July Junior Netball Camps provide netballers the opportunity to take to the courts during the school holidays to learn, make friends and have loads of fun! Three day camps, in half-day slots with a different focus each day, including a Superleague player appearance on Day 2! 310yrs.

Ultimate Cheer Clapham www.ultimate-cheer.co.uk

26-30 July Is your child a gymnast

and keen to try a new sport?

Ultimate Cheer’s Cheerleading camps and Tumbling camps might be perfect. Get a taste of what Cheerleading is – getting involved in stunts, routines and learning new skills. Or learn to flip, roll and tuck, in their tumbling camp! For 5-17 years. £30pd or £150pw.

Zebra Skate Clapham Common and the Albert Memorial, Kensington Gardens www.zebraskate.co.uk Go from zero to Skate Hero!

Rollerblading and Skateboarding skate camps in the holidays as well as private lessons year-round.

GetSetGo

South West Swimming School Emanuel School SW11 1HS, Ernest Bevin SW17 7OF, Burntwood School SW17 0AQ and Henry Cavendish SW12 OJA Call 020 8767 2723 to reserve space www.swswimschool.co.uk 19 July to 27 August. Intensive course. Price for 5-day splash varies depending on ratio of class: 3:1 is £170, 2:1 is £180, 1:1 is £290. All classes are 30 min, and run between 9am-5pm depending on venue.

SwimWay Balham/Tooting Bec, East Sheen, Home Guard, Sheen Mount, Kew Gardens, Wimbledon/Southfields info@swimway.co.uk www.swimway.co.uk 19 July-27 August Swimming crash courses running throughout the holidays. 5-day courses.

FamiliesSWLon

July/August 2021 • Families South West 35

WHAT’S ON July/August

Everyone loves

FREE BOOK FOR READERS

Not only have we survived the pandemic, we practically never stopped printing over the last year!

We believe this is a true testament of our popularity with readers and advertisers. We are chuffed to bits as you can imagine!

WIN a family ticket for 4 to see What the Ladybird Heard Live on Stage at the Palace Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue

For the next issues, we will increase the print run by over 30% to 40,000 copies! (up from 30,000) so more people can enjoy it.

Email your answer to the question below with your name and the subject heading LADYBIRD SOUTH WEST COMPETITION to info@familiesmagazine.co.uk before midnight on Wednesday 21st July 2021. Applies to selected performances only*.

What do Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len want to steal from the farm?

To celebrate further, we are giving away a FREE children’s activity book* to people who sign up to our FREE digital magazine.

Sign up at familiesmag.co.uk/books To distribute our free magazine to customers in your shop/business please email distribution@familiessw.co.uk

36 Families South West • July/August 2021

a. The Ladybird b. The fine prize cow c. The woolly sheep Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer's fine prize cow. But the Ladybird has a scheme of her own! Join the clever Ladybird as she leads the animals on their quest to save the day. With live music, puppetry and a whole farmyard of fun, this 55-minute family favourite is the perfect summer treat! For ages 3+ whattheladybirdheardlive.co.uk @LiveLadybird

T&Cs apply *while stocks last

T&Cs - Prize is for one family ticket (admits 4, minimum 1 adult) to see What the Ladybird Heard at the Palace Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue for selected performances from * Saturday 24 July to Sunday 29 August 2021 only. The winner will be selected by random prize draw of the entries with the correct answer. Tickets are subject to availability, hold no cash value and are not transferable. No answers will be accepted after the closing date of midnight on Wednesday 21st July 2021 and all decisions are final.

What the Ladybird Heard © Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks 2009. Macmillan Children’s Books

familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’S ON July/August

Please check availability before starting out

FESTIVALS

Comedy Festival, the longest running UK comedy.

From £10 plus booking fee.

Wandsworth Arts Fringe Live and digital shows

Bloomsbury Festival Bedford Square Gardens, WC1 www.bloomsburyfestival.org.uk 16 July A one-day free pop-up festival in the usually private gated garden. Free events and entertainment in this beautiful outdoor space in the very centre of London.

Food and drink stalls. 2-8pm.

www.wandsworthartsfringe.com Until 11 July A live programme of circus, dance, music, theatre, comedy, visual art, free family days and more... alongside a digital programme which builds on the success of 2020’s award-winning online festival. 130 events, presented by 75 companies, happening across 43 venues and online.

Kensington & Chelsea’s summer festival www.kcfestival.co.uk www.rbkc.gov.uk/ explore-kensington-and-chelsea Until 31 August The festival will mix visual art, a Public Art Trail, theatre, dance, music, family shows, cabaret, comedy, spoken word and street food. As you wander through the myriad entertainment on offer, expect to find ballet and street art, orchestras, celebrations of both circus arts and gaming culture, plus plenty of exhibitions and workshops cropping up around the borough in both well-known and unexpected places.

The extensive events programme will be enhanced by pedestrianised streets with increased capacity of 900 seats for visitors to enjoy outdoor dining and an array of exciting new retailers. Full programme of events online.

Jousting tournaments Hever Castle. Kent www.hevercastle.co.uk 10 July–30 August The brave knights of Royal England will be battling in jousting tournaments to the delight of spectators.

Families can also enjoy the gardens, play areas, adventure playground, water maze and the historic castle. Jousting does not take place every day, so check the website before going. Other activities available throughout the summer months.

Greenwich & Docklands international festival www.festival.org 27 August–11 September A summer extravaganza filled with free outdoor performances from some of the world’s rising stars.

Last year saw over 21,000 audience members join together for 150 socially distanced performances.

Streatham Food Festival

The Children’s Trust Supercar event

www.streathamfoodfestival.com Until 10 July Ten days celebrating the most delicious food and drink available in Streatham’s restaurants and bars—South London’s secret foodie heaven. Discover new places to eat and drink.

Goodwood Motor Circuit, Chichester www.thesupercarevent.com 24 July One-day spectacular charity event to help children with brain injury and neurodisability.

Balham Comedy Festival The Bedford, Balham Book www.balhamcomedyfestival.com 9 to 18 July Buoyed by their sellout stand-up shows since restrictions were eased, Banana Cabaret is proud to announce their ninth critically-acclaimed Balham

ACTIVITIES St Andrew's Club 10km sponsored walk Sign up on Eventbrite 17 July A brilliant community event that also helps to raise valuable funds for the children’s club in SW1.

The Underbelly festival Cavendish Square, W1 Tickets www.underbellyfestival.com 1 July–26 September Enjoy an exciting programme of cabaret, comedy, and family-friendly shows! Circus show Hotel Paradiso will perform as well as Baby Loves Disco, CBBC’s Sam & Mark, Basil Brush, Comedy Club 4 Kids and much more.

Bub Quiz The Sound Lounge, 102 London Road, Morden, SM4 5AX bubquiz@gmail.com 27 July and 24 August The original baby and toddler-friendly pub style quiz.

Test your brain and win fantastic prizes whilst meeting other local parents. Teams or individuals welcome with children aged 0–5 years. 11am. Free for children, £10 per adult.

Free Dino Safari www.loveexploring.co.uk A free to download app, perfect for getting out and about with the family this summer. Just pop your location in and it will show you games or trails to try out. There are questions to answer, and facts for the whole family to learn as you go. It will tell you how long it will take—useful for little legs, and you’ll be guided around things to see as you go.

Bach to Baby www.bachtobaby.com Clapham 16 July; Wimbledon, 17 July; Kew & Richmond, 28 July; Balham & Streatham, 25 July; Regents Park 31 July.

The critically acclaimed classical concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers is back. Tots dance and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with babes in tow. Kids go FREE

familiesonline.co.uk

Underbelly Festival

NCT SW branches, www.nct.org.uk Ante and post natal courses, First Aid, breastfeeding support and much more.

17 July Clapham & District Virtual Community for local parents to build friendships and stay connected.

19 July Wimbledon Walk and Talk.

20 July Weekly drop-in online breastfeeding support Tuesday 10-11am - Public & free.

22 July Wandsworth Walk and Talk The Scrapstore 13 Blackshaw Road SW17 0DA www.workandplayscrapstore.org.uk A fantastic supermarket-style treasure trove presenting waste as arts and crafts materials to inspire creativity... paper and paint, textiles and trimmings, buttons, wood and wondrous props, foam and fine wire and so much more... Only open Thursdays 11am-8pm. Small membership fee otherwise free, take as much as you want.

FamiliesSWLondon

K & C summer festival

OPEN AIR THEATRES & CINEMAS Dragons and Mythical Beasts Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre www.openairtheatre.com 13 August-5 September Calling all brave heroes! Unveil a myriad of dark secrets and come face to face with some of the most magnificent monsters and terrifying beasts ever to walk the earth. A fantastical new show for all the family.

Backyard Cinema Spooky Shows Capital Studios, Wandsworth, SW18 1ET www.backyardcinema.co.uk Get into the spirit of summer with cinema outdoors. Check films and timings online. Food and beverages for sale and social distancing rules apply.

La Luna Clapham Common, Kensington Palace, Regents Park Theatre, Royal Hospital Chelsea, Wandsworth and Westminster parks. www.thelunacinema.com Choose from a wide variety of films and locations in and outside London. Drinks and food available to purchase.

July/August 2021 • Families South West 37

WHAT’S ON July/August

Compiled by Melissa Reynolds, one of our Roving mums

MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITIONS Natural History Museum

National Maritime Museum Do sign up for their most excellent newsletter.

www.nhm.ac.uk - Fantastic beasts, the wonder of nature Until 13 January Discover where the real world and wizarding meet and the myths, legends and magical creatures that reside there.

Meet some magical beasts and fantastic animals and understand our planet’s own extraordinary creatures. Family from £38.50.

- Our Broken Planet: How we got here and ways to fix It In this first part you'll be exploring the subject of food, and how our diets impact the natural world. Online events too. FREE - Wildlife Photographer of the Year Until 1 August Featuring breath-taking animal portraits, otherworldly underwater photography and magnificent aerial shots. Discover animals in far-off landscapes and get a closer look at the creatures living on your doorstep.

- Self-guided tour walks you through some of the Museum's biggest sights and is perfect for families - whether you're a first-timer or returning visitor.

Enter through Cromwell Road and head left from Hintze Hall to begin your tour.

It should take about two hours.

www.rmg.co.uk - Tudors to Windsors: British Royal Portraits Until 31 October In collaboration with London’s National Portrait Gallery, Tudors to Windsors will showcase royal portraits of kings, queens, and their heirs. The exhibit features important artists to have worked in Britain including Cecil Beaton, Sir Godfrey Kneller, and Annie Lebovitz.

- Discover Sundays Little ones can create their own crafts with artist-led activities and discover new stories about the museum’s collections. 10:30, 12:00, 14:00, 15:30.

Suitable for all ages. FREE.

Royal Observatory www.rmg.co.uk - Shows in the planetarium are back.

Out of this world star gazing and astronomy shows for the whole family.

Also amazing virtual planetarium shows online.

- Ted's Space Adventure A special planetarium show for under-7s, perfect for little astronauts everywhere! Adults £10, child £5 - Phantom of the Universe Learn all about the hunt for dark matter and enjoy a thrilling immersive experience.

Suitable for adults and families. Adults £10, child £5

Cutty Sark 150th Anniversary Concert

www.rmg.co.uk There is much to explore on board Cutty Sark in Greenwich, the celebrated historic sailing ship and fastest of its time. Meet the captain, chat with the cook, meet the cast of colourful characters, play interactive games, touch the hull of the ship and see how the crew lived and worked at sea. You never know who you might run into on board... Suitable from 3yrs.

Royal Albert Hall www.royalalberthall.com 19 July Young and old can help celebrate 150 years of music with Circle of Sound, a ten-movement piece that looks back at the music hall’s unique history. Special guests, local choirs, schools and community groups will also take the stage.

Old Royal Naval College

Alice: Curiouser and curiouser

www.ornc.org 500 Years of Mischief and Mayhem Until October Original artworks and illustrations from the booklets of Nick Ellwood feature tales of astronomers, architects, royals, gods and goddesses and figures from the Navy. Children can also take part in drawing workshops, interactive and digital demonstrations, and the launch of the new ORNC activity book.

www.vam.ac.uk Until 31 December Exploring its origins, adaptations and reinventions over 157 years, this immersive and theatrical show charts the evolution of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland from manuscript to a global phenomenon beloved by all ages. £20. Under 12s go free.

Victoria and Albert Museum

Family activity day: Lotions and Potions

Kew Gardens

Chelsea Physic Garden

www.kew.org Until 19 September The secret world of plants. Kew visitors can enjoy large, immersive plantscapes that represent different UK habitats, including coastal cliffs, moorland, and meadows. There is also a programme of artistic activities aimed at appreciating nature and greenery.

www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 4 August and 25 August Explore a brief history of medicine and learn about the power of plants to heal and soothe. Learn how to make your own remedies including herb bags, ointments, lip balm and a bath bomb.

Suitable for age 7+ but garden a real delight for any age.

London Transport Museum WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Learn all about the history of London Transport either in the museum or online, with over 450,000 items to check out. Have a go at the holiday activities, get hands-on with transport history, or join a Singing and Story session. Enjoy stories about hopping on a bus to the Museum with rhythm, dancing and storytelling, as well as the chance to look at objects from the Museum collection. Every Tuesday and Friday until 23 July.

• For families with Special Educational Needs, including Autistic Spectrum Disorder, the museum is open outside regular hours on certain special days.

Advanced booking is essential.

So much to do at the National Maritime Museum!

Wind in the Willows Kew Gardens

To advertise: 020 8696 9680 | Editorial: editor@FamiliesSW.co.uk | Adverts/Artwork: adverts@FamiliesSW.co.uk Events/DiaryDates/What’sOn: whatson@FamiliesSW.co.uk | Next Issue: Sept 2021 | ISSN1354-9553. | Allcontents ©FamiliesSW 2021.

WHAT’S ON July/August

Please check availability before starting out

will delight as Head Chief Rabbit transforms young children into rabbits to join the fun on the riverbank.

THEATRE Much ado about nothing

Maanika and the Wolf

Fulham Palace, SW6 www.fulhampalace.org 18 July Shakespeare’s comedic tale of love comes to life on the main lawn of Fulham Palace by theatre group Illyria. Enjoy a picnic with family and friends while you follow the tale of love, hate and deception. £18 adults, £9 children.

Pericles, Midsummer Night’s Dream and The Tempest

Flute Theatre

One-on-one Zoom Shakespeare for autistic individuals and their families.

www.flutetheatre.co.uk Until 17 July Performances are experienced through sensory games that are musical, funny, and physical, each game tailored to the individual. Online.

The Puppet Theatre Barge W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com 3 July–8 August A unique fiftyThe Town Mouse & The seat marionette Country Mouse These two theatre on a famous cousins visit each converted other and both experience barge. exciting new sights and sounds.

A delight for young and old, told with music, songs and rod puppets. 11am and 3pm.

Suitable for ages 3+.

Polka Theatre www.polkatheatre.com Don’t miss 29 July–29 August Polka at the Being performed at a special pop-up Centre Court! theatre in Centre Court Shopping Centre, Maanika retells the story of Little Red Riding Hood for 3-6 year olds. See grandmother return to her childhood bedroom and recall stories from when she was a young girl and reenacts her own version of Little Red Riding Hood.

The Tiger who came to tea

Theatre Royal Haymarket www.trh.co.uk From 12 July When the doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mum are sitting down to tea, they never expect a Tiger on the other side of the door! Join the tea-loving tiger in this amazing show full of songs, sing-a-longs and magic. Perfect for little ones of all ages.

The tiger came to tea, Theatre Royal Haymarket Zog, Cadogan Hall

Gangsta Granny

Richmond Theatre www.atgtickets.com 7–10 July Ben is expecting to have a boring time spending Friday night with his granny. But Ben’s granny has a secret, and Ben is about to have an exciting adventure with his Gangsta Granny.

Apollo Theatre

Palace Theatre

www.apollotheatrelondon.co.uk 30 July–29 August The Horrible Histories gang is back with a whole new series of rude rulers and kooky characters. Meet King William, King Henry V111 and join the Georgians as they take over England and break into Buckingham Palace and hide from the Queen.

Shaftesbury Avenue www.whattheladybirdheardlive.co.uk @liveladybird 15 July to 29 August From Julia Donaldson bestselling author of The Gruffalo. With live To win original music from a quartet of tickets, see talented actors, puppetry and a page 36 whole farmyard of fun, this 55minute family favourite is the perfect introduction to theatre for 3yrs+. Expect plenty of participation, lots of laughs and rhymes galore!

Wind in the Willows

Kew Gardens www.kew.org 24 July–30 August The entire family can enjoy Kenneth Grahame’s classic story played out in Kew’s beautiful gardens. Little ones

What the Ladybird heard The Puppet Theatre Barge

Zog

Cadogan Hall www.cadoganhall.com 18 August–29 August With lively songs from Joe Stilgoe and directed by Emma Kilbey, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog is a magical production for all ages.

Family-friendly performances. Babes in arms (children up to 2 years of age) are permitted to share a seat with each full paying adult.

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Photo Robert Day

Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain Part 5 The Ladybird and her farmyard friends

Rediscover the borough There’s something for everyone to enjoy, from our parks, high streets and museums, to libraries, local businesses and more. #OurRBKC RBKC kensingtonandchelseacouncil

©2021 Kensington and Chelsea Council ref no. 708.190 design@rbkc.gov.uk

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For more information on things to do in Kensington and Chelsea and what’s on during the Summer of Love, visit www.rbkc.gov.uk/ explore-kensington-and-chelsea from Friday 25 June 2021

Get ready to fall in love with Kensington and Chelsea this summer. Exciting events and activities are taking place across the borough June to September and you’re invited to join in the fun.