Families London SW Mar-April 2020

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IN THIS ISSUE

• Prep schools • Reviews • Easter activities • Competitions • WIFI protection • FREE activities Issue 295 March/April 2020

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E

In this issue 4 & 5

6 & 7

8-19

READER OFFERS & COMPETITIONS

SOFT PLAY CENTRES REVIEWED

PREP SCHOOLS FEATURE

20-25

28 & 29

32-36

BI-LINGUAL EDUCATION

REWARD CHART

EASTER HOLIDAYS ACTIVITIES

38 & 39

46

50-55

TEN THINGS TO DO WITH BABY

FREE THINGS TO DO

WHAT’S ON

See more local news and events on:

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To advertise: 020 8696 9680 | Editorial: editor@FamiliesSW.co.uk | News: news@FamiliesSW.co.uk | Adverts/Artwork: adverts@FamiliesSW.co.uk Events/Diary Dates/What’s On: whatson@FamiliesSW.co.uk | Next Issue: May/June 2020 | ISSN 1354-9553. | All contents ©Families SW 2020.

Don’t miss these great Exclusive offer to readers of 10% off any classes or PT sessions quoting Families SW.

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• Tuesdays 7.25pm pregnancy and post natal fitness, Raynes Park • Wednesdays-9.30am Bootcamp @Joseph Hood Rec., Merton • Thursdays-2.15pm mum & baby fitness @Lantern Arts Centre Personal training is also available and can take place at your home, a fully equipped gym or outside.

Free trial/ more information: Candice_toughmothers@outlook.com | @toughmotherslondon

Special 10% off for readers quoting FLSW10

Protect your family from WIFI radiation Protect 3 devices Our modern lives are becoming plagued with more for £42 or protect and more imbalanced frequencies from our phones, up to 6 devices for laptops, air and water. Soon when 5G and the world just £75 instead of connected devices is upon us, it will be even worse. of £ 84.

More than 240 scientists published an appeal to the United Nations to reduce public exposure and are calling for a moratorium on 5G citing “established” adverse biological effects of RF radiation. Scientific data on the biological effects of radiofrequency indicate the immediate need for a cautionary approach to protect the public. The research has accumulated enough to provide strong evidence that even low levels are not safe. https://ehtrust.org/science/research-onwireless-health-effects/ Omnia Radiation Balancer have developed a product/stickers to put on your phone that they say is effective in harmonizing the radiation fields.

Government guidelines updated on 4 February say: “…. uncertainties in the science suggest some additional level of precaution is warranted, particularly for sources such as mobile phones where simple measures can be taken to reduce exposure.” See the recommended Government precautions here: http://bit.ly/Reducingexposure.

While scientists argue whether it is safe or not why not protect your family now? Get your stickers here: http://bit.ly/Omniaproducts

Brilliant playHOORAY! Activity Cards Cosy venue to hire Keep kids busy and give yourself five minutes for a cuppa with playHOORAY! activity cards. Devised by early years specialist, Claire Russell, there are over 20 themes available including Outdoors, Travel, Eating Out, 123s and ABCs. Each pack includes fun, educational and realistic play ideas designed to boost children’s speech and language, encourage physical and social development, and stimulate the imagination. What’s more, all ideas can be quickly and easily set up using everyday household items or those which can be sourced cheaply from a pound shop or supermarket.

Spanning messy, sensory and creative activities the range caters for a variety of ages including babies, toddlers and primary school children.

Personalised tins are also available and make great gifts. www.playhooray.co.uk

Are you a therapist and need a private room?

Do you receive clients and need a comfortable meeting space?

Do you run day time classes?

Only Do you need a space for small scale events? £15 an hour Also ideal for first birthdays as it is so cute and intimate The Living Room is a small, cosy space. All white, spread over two floors, equipped with tables, chairs and 2 sofas. There is also a kitchen.

until 3pm weekdays.

Based in Furzedown, 19 Thrale Road, SW16 1NS. Free parking in the area. www.thelivingroom.place info@thelivingroom.place

4 Families South West • March/April 2020

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Reader offers!

Fabulous Families Book Quiz and Competition...

Encourage your child to have a go!

With World Book Day having just passed, you and your child may have been thinking quite a bit about books and reading already this Spring. So now’s the perfect time to test your knowledge!

Families has teamed up with Young Writers to bring you this amazing quiz. It’s divided into two sections for ages 4 to 7 and ages 8 to 11.

We have a £50 National Book Voucher for the winner of the ages 4 to 7 category.

Thanks to Young Writers, we have a fantastic book bundle of 10 books for the winner of the ages 8 to 11 category, including popular, recently published books such as You Won’t Believe This by Adam Baron, Agatha Oddly Murder at the Museum by Lena Jones and What’s that in Dog Years? by Ben Davis.

Look out for the answers to the quiz in our next magazine or request them in your email entry. T&Cs online.

Young Writers organise poetry and creative writing competitions for children in schools. For further information, visit www.youngwriters.co.uk

To enter the competition, just email info@familiesmagazine.co.uk with your child’s name, age, your telephone number and answers to the questions in the relevant section. Closing date: 15 June 2020. Only one entry per child please!

Quiz for ages 4 to 7 Years

Quiz for ages 8 to 11 Years

1.

1.

Name 3 fruits the Hungry Caterpillar ate.

Where do Silky, Moon Face and Saucepan Man live?

2. In the Charlie and Lola books, what is Lola’s invisible friend called?

2. How is Stanley Lambchop better known?

3. Which book series do the characters Bottomley Potts and Blitzer Maloney feature?

3. Who is the main character in Diary of Wimpy Kid?

4. Which animal visits Sophie and her mummy one tea time?

4. Who does Barney meet when exploring an old chalk pit?

5. Who wrote Where the Wild Things Are?

5. In the book Holes, who gets sent to Camp Green Lake Juvenile Detention Centre?

6. Who was the ‘Room on the Broom’ for?

7.

6. Who wrote about characters called James, Matilda, Sophie and Charlie?

What is the name of the boy who builds The Snowman?

8. What is the name of Biff and Chip’s dog?

7.

9. Who lives in Hundred Acre Wood?

8. What are Mary Norton’s tiny characters called?

10. Aliens, pirates and dinosaurs love these…

9. Who is the main character in The Bed and Breakfast Star by Jacqueline Wilson?

Which David Walliams’ book is his character Joe from?

11. Who is Perfect Peter’s rather naughty brother?

12. What are the names of the witch and cat Valerie Thomas writes about?

10. In which book series does Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III appear?

11. The dormouse, a gryphon, a mock turtle and a rabbit are characters from which classic children’s book?

12. Who wrote My Brother’s Famous Bottom book series?

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March/April 2020 • Families South West 5

Soft play and Rainy Reviewed by Families Roving Mum team

Tooting Leisure Centre Greaves Pl, Tooting, London SW17 0NE www.placesleisure.org Tooting Leisure Centre has a soft play for children aged 18 months-6 years. It has a slide, ball pit and mini football area. We always take our son there after going swimming on a Saturday morning (he doesn't let us leave the building without going in!). Also perfect to allow a younger child to play while an older sibling might be having a class. Parents can sit and watch at the tables and chairs next to the soft play. Cost: £4.50 per child. Open Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat & Sun 11am-3pm.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Daniela Hale

Bertie and Boo 205-207 Balham High Rd, Balham, SW17 7BQ www.bertieandboo.com This is a great place to visit if you want to grab a coffee and a bite to eat and let the children play. There's also a huge buggy parking area for any sized buggy you might have. Staff are extremely friendly and both my 4 year old and I had a great time. Eliana was free to explore and have fun in a safe environment while the adults could sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee. Story time is also available (Mo-Fri at 9.45, 10.30 & 4pm for 30 minutes; no afternoon session on Fridays,) and worth attending as the children are mesmerized and captivated by the storytelling. We were also allowed to leave and come back as many times as we wanted to.

This is definitely one of my favourite child friendly cafés and there should be more like them. Entry to soft play £5.50. Ages 0-6 years (6 months and under go free). Story time £1 per person on top of admission price.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Andi Petrou 6 Families South West • March/April 2020

March and April can be very wet months, so when the looong Easter holidays come you need to have a Plan B! Once you have exhausted all parks and all your wet weather play options it is time to get indoors and allow STEAM, and lots of it, to be let out. Soft play areas are fantastic: they are super safe, children are actually allowed to run riot, scream and shout (ok within limits) and they have bright, comfortable cafés where mums can relax in-relative-peace. Our team of Roving Mums tell you what they like about local places.

Wandle Recreation Centre Mapleton Rd, Wandsworth, London SW18 4DN www.placesleisure.org The centre has a great 'Adventure Zone' soft play with slides, trampoline, 3 levels with different climbing equipment, plus a seating area for parents/carers/snack time.

We used to go every Friday morning after Playball before my son started school—he absolutely loved it. It's quite big so there is plenty of space for your little ones to let off some steam! Bonus for tired mums and dads: Southside Shopping Centre with its many coffee pit-stops is just around the corner!

(Children must be supervised by parents/carers at all times however). Cost: £4.45, additional siblings: £2.50. Open Mon-Fri 9am-6pm.

Under 8's only.

Flip Out Wandsworth Bendon Valley, Wandsworth SW18 4LZ www.flipout.co.uk

Reviewed by Roving Mum Daniela Hale

Sinbads Soft Play & Cafe 82 Durham Road, Raynes Park, London SW20 0TL

All four of my children love Flip Out! For my youngest, the under-five area is amazing. It has several small trampoline spaces for them to jump, a foam block pool to jump into and a soft play area with a small climbing structure and ball pits. If you have older children with you, it’s difficult to watch them while staying in the under-five area. You can go during special toddler times. Standard Jump sessions give you unlimited access for £12 off peak, £13 peak. All ages and abilities welcome.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Melissa Reynolds

www.sindbads.co.uk/ While Sinbads is a bit on the smaller size, that's what I like about it! It's cozy, and you can see your child no matter where you are sitting. It's a great spot to sit with a friend and have a chat while your children are playing and there is plenty of food and snacks to choose from in the cafe area, especially kid- friendly eats. 1 to 4 years old £4; 5 to 8 years old £5.50; siblings : £2.50.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Melissa Reynolds familiesonline.co.uk

day play areas Bee’s Knees Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill SW11 5TN www.bac.org.uk It is not just a soft Play, apart from having toys, books, lots of colourful cushions on the floor and birthdays parties, the place is a bucolic scenery from a summer afternoon in the countryside. My little daughters love running up and rolling down the green hill, crossing the fake river and jumping on the little bridge. Bee Knees for 0-5yrs and located in the always impressive Battersea Art centre. My daughters and I can find the inspiration in every corner by playing piano, painting, getting lost in the building and discovering lots of activities for all ages as the Heritage trail called “The mysterious letter”, for the older kids. £3 per child.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Noemi Garcia

Wacky Warehouse Unit 5, Priory Retail Park, 131 High Street, Colliers Wood, SW19 2PP www.wackywarehouse.co.uk/kiss-me-hardy Wacky Warehouse was really more suitable for my older children (6 and 9yrs). It has one large play structure and while it does have a section for younger children it isn’t really separate from the older children. My son could have played in the structure for hours and I love that I could sit and watch, and there is a lot of seating available. Also arts and craft sessions. 9.30am3pm term time only. 1 hour play £4.25, Tot Club £2.25, Monthly play pass from £7.50 with a Wacky Club card.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Melissa Reynolds

Kidzania Westfield London Shopping Centre www.kidzania.co.uk Kidzania is an indoor city run by kids. Children explore 60 real-life activities and experiences. We played police officers, firemen, paramedics, mechanics, cashiers, spacemen and women, designers, pilots and so much more. We also created our very our personalised Pokemon card and story. Kidzania is an actual life-size role-play experience and totally worth visiting!

What I loved the most was how my son was playing and learning skills at the same time: the ultimate play heaven! We learnt how different job roles needed a set of skills and in turn we earned a wage. It was a little overwhelming for my son as the venue is large and loud, however within minutes he was fully involved and loved every second. With every experience he was keen to have another go and try new things!

Overall we thoroughly enjoyed Kidzania and would recommend to other parents! I would advise eating before visiting. Situated within Westfield Shopping so could be part a whole day out for the family.

Suitable for ages 4-8years old. Adult £16, child £19 if bought online. A ticket entry is for 4 hours only, two time slots: 9am and 2 pm.

7, Station Court, Townmead Rd, Chelsea, London SW6 2PY www.gambado.com We were invited to meet at Gambado for a play date. We hadn’t been before so this was our first experience. It was only 1 minute walk from Imperial Wharf Station so super easy to get to. The setup was very much like many other soft play venues. The soft play structure at Gambado is larger than many other soft play areas, it also has dodgems, a carousel, an under 5s and baby area too.

My 4 year old son had a great time with his friend. They enjoyed the slides the most! We also stopped by the cafe for healthy drinks and snacks too.

I would definitely recommend Gambado to other families. Play and eat £9. Toddler time special offer £7 plus one free adult. Book your child’s party with them and they’ll get unlimited free visits! See page 49.

Army Museum play base National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Road, London, SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk It was a cold and dreary Saturday morning and we did not have much planned. The army museum's play base seemed like the perfect choice.

My 4 year old has a lot of energy and this is a great place for them to burn off some steam. The session is an hour long and is an army play base for under 8's. There is an assault course, slide, climbing frame, army base kitchen and much more. My four year old particularly liked the wooden carts and found an eager participant to push around. We had a great morning and would definitely visit again. There are size sessions from 9.40am-5.20pm. Children aged 1-8 years old £5.75.

Children under 1 year old free.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Andi Petrou

Eddie Catz Wimbledon 42 Station Rd, London SW19 2LP www.eddiecatz.com My six year old and nine year old love the big play structure which is full of slides and climbing while my three year old was happier in the under-five area. There she had slides, balls, ride-ons, a see saw and a little house to play in. I love that I can sit and see all of my children from one spot, even while picking up a snack or drinks, which are plentiful there! I find it a good value for the price of admission. Prices according to height and peak/off peak from £2.50 to £8.50. Meal deal £9.50. Great memberships. Also many classes happening there, Playball, ballet etc check the website.

Reviewed by Roving Mum Melissa Reynolds

Reviewed by Roving Mum Negin Malik familiesonline.co.uk

Gambado

Reviewed by Roving Mum Negin Malik

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March/April 2020 • Families South West 7

Why thinking should be a curriculum subject

Prep school feature

By Dr Neel Burton, a leading psychiatrist and author of Hypersanity: Thinking Beyond Thinking

F

ollowing his defeat at the Battle of Actium in 31 BCE, Marc Antony heard a rumour that Cleopatra had committed suicide and, in consequence, stabbed himself in the abdomen—only to discover that Cleopatra herself had been responsible for spreading the rumour. He later died in her arms.

‘Fake news’ is nothing new, but in our Internet age, it has spread like a disease, swinging elections, fomenting social unrest, undermining institutions, and diverting political capital away from health, education, and good government. So how best to guard against it?

As a medical specialist, I have spent well over twenty years in formal education. With the possible exception of my one-year degree in philosophy, the emphasis of my education has been firmly and squarely on fact accumulation.

Today, I have little use for most of these facts, and though I am only middle-aged, many are already out of date, or highly questionable.

But what I do rely on—every day, all the time— is my faculty for critical thinking. As BF Skinner once put it: “Education is what survives when what has been learnt has been forgotten.”

Can critical thinking be taught?

The answer is ‘yes’ or, at least, the beginnings of it. So why not make more time for it and be more rigorous and systematic about its learning? Logic is a good start, but there is much more to critical thinking than mere logic.

Educationalists often amalgamate thinking with logic. True, logic is able to provide immediate certainty and the authority and credibility that goes with that. But logic is a lot more limited than many people imagine.

Logic essentially consists of a set of operations for deriving a statement from other

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statements. In a sense, it merely makes explicit that which was previously implicit. It brings nothing new to the table. The conclusion flows from the premises as their inevitable consequence: 1. All birds have feathers. (Premise 1) 2. Woodpeckers are birds. (Premise 2) 3. Therefore, woodpeckers have feathers.

(Conclusion) What’s more, logic is not concerned with the actual truth or falsity of the premises or, indeed, the merit or relevance of the conclusion.

Reasoning is a much broader psychological activity Reasoning also involves selecting and assessing evidence, creating and testing hypotheses, weighing competing arguments, evaluating means and ends, developing and applying mental shortcuts, and so on. All this requires the use of judgement, which is why reason, unlike logic, cannot be delegated to a computer, and also why it so often fails to persuade.

Just as there is more to reason than logic, so there is more to thinking than reasoning. If school curricula make very little time for logic and reasoning, they make even less time for non-rational forms of cognition such as the emotions, intuition, and imagination.

To see the significance of non-rational forms of cognition, let’s hone in on the emotions.

With the decline of religion and traditional social structures, our emotions have come to assume an increasingly dominant role in our

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lives. It has forever been said that we are ruled by our emotions, but this today is truer than ever. Much more than reason or tradition, it is our emotions that determine our choice of profession, partner, and politics, and our relation to money, sex, and religion.

Yet, remarkably, the emotions are utterly neglected by our system of education, leading to millions of mis-lived lives. Nothing can make us feel more alive, or more human, than our emotions, or hurt us more. To control our emotions is to control ourselves, and to control ourselves is to control our destiny.

Our school curriculum needs to make more time and space for thinking. And we need to rehabilitate alternative forms of cognition, such as the emotions, intuition, and imagination, that can support, supplement, or supplant reason and return us to wholeness.

Hypersanity: Thinking Beyond Thinking, is out now, £12.99. To find out more, visit www.neelburton.com

March/April 2020 • Families South West 9

12 Families South West • March/April 2020

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Education for the 21st century

By Alison Melrose, Head of Prince's Gardens Preparatory School Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School is a brand spanking new, independent school opening in Kensington this September. The head teacher Alison Melrose is very passionate about the 4Cs of education; but what are they and why are they pivotal in our children’s lives?

T

only do they need to listen to their teacher, but he happiness of a child is a true measure they also need to work collaboratively to play of success and it’s a fact that children the same piece of music. They need to think learn best when they are happy. At critically about how they stand, how much Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School, we feel space they need so they don’t bump into their the 4Cs—creativity, collaboration, neighbour, or poke them in the eye with a bow, communication and critical thinking—all help and then they create some wonderful music to build confidence and support the need for a and have the confidence to perform in front of broad curriculum; successfully preparing each an audience. These active and engaged pupil for life as an intellectually accomplished children retain information and are inspired to and fulfilled adult. We don’t know what the find out more, which ultimately results in future holds for our children so we must greater progress. prepare them to be adaptable to change as well as having an excellent “Knowledge Outdoor learning and academic education. Knowledge will get them so far, but they must will get them so far, residential trips also be able to think on their but they must also And while progress is important feet, work in a flexible manner, for the children, we also need to be able to think on ensure that we are mindful of be independent learners and have the human element, which their feet, something their wellbeing—healthy minds and bodies. Prince’s Gardens has robots and AI can’t deliver. robots and AI can’t its own two-acre outdoor area deliver” behind the school which is very Creativity, collaboration, unique in terms of London schools. We communication and critical also have access to a 70-acre outdoor learning thinking centre in Hertfordshire supporting the The 4Cs can be found across the curriculum character education programme in tandem being applied in all aspects of education. Gone with an excellent academic programme. And are the days of the teacher standing at the we have initiatives such as outdoor learning front of the class with an endless monologue. and residential trips which provide fantastic We all learn in different ways and the three opportunities for collaborative and active most well-known areas are visual, auditory and learning. Prince’s Gardens has a specialist physical, ensuring we teach to all learning teaching room called The Maker Space where styles is pivotal in engaging with all children. children can really develop the 4Cs. All of For example, in a music class where the these activities develop character, teamwork, children are playing musical instruments, not resilience and a sense of pride.

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As always, communication remains hugely important in education, particularly in terms of feedback. Teachers must understand what good feedback looks like and give personalised responses for each child in a meaningful way.

Not necessarily to praise, but to guide the path forward as to what went well and how the work could be even better next time. At Prince’s Gardens we feel feedback delivered to each pupil in class is much more meaningful than a comment in a book that they read a week later.

Technology in relation to the 4Cs is also key within classrooms. It allows collaborative learning with teachers able to sit with pupils but still display and model parts of the curriculum, or the children’s own work, from a tablet directly to a screen. Classes can be delivered with children around the world, including Skype calls and collaborative activities to share learning about different cultures and languages.

Ultimately, schools must be nurturing environments where we support children to be the best version of themselves, make friends and to try out a wide variety of activities and subjects to find where their talents lie. And most of all, to enjoy their childhood and develop great social and emotional skills. At Prince’s Gardens we want the children to step out confidently in the future, be ambitious and tenacious whilst also being mindful of the world and their responsibility for it; and the 4Cs are pivotal in helping us deliver that.

10-13 Prince’s Gardens, London SW7 1ND www.princesgardensprep.co.uk March/April 2020 • Families South West 13

NUMBER

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IN LONDON

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NATIONALLY

Update...

School Open Days Please check to confirm the event is still on before starting out

SW3 and SW7 The Hampshire, 3-11y, B&G. Open morning 12 Mar. 020 7352 7077 www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.c o.uk/tour St Joseph’s Catholic Primary, Nur-11y, B&G. 020 75892438 www.stjosephs.rbkc.sch.uk

SW4 Parkgate House School, B&G 2.511y. Open Morning 16 May 9.30am-12pm. Register/book via 020 7350 2461 or www.parkgateschool.co.uk Eaton House, 4+y, B&G. • Eaton House The Manor now has Open Days for Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School on most Tuesdays during term time: 3 Mar, 10 Mar and 17 Mar • Eaton House The Manor Boys’ School on most Wednesdays during term time: 4 Mar, 11 Mar and 18 Mar. Heads and senior staff will be on hand to greet visitors and conduct tours, and refreshments will be provided. Book on www.eatonhouseschools.com or contact Head of Admissions, Sam Feilding 0203 917 5050 or sfeilding@eatonhouseschools.com

SW6 Parson’s Green Prep, 4-11y, B&G. Tours by appointment.

020 7610 8085 www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk Sinclair House, 2-11y, B&G. Open 12/3 at 10-11.30am 020 7736 9182 Register on www.sinclairhouseschool.com/ope ndays L’Ecole des Petits, 3-6y, B&G. Visits are by appointment only.

020 7371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk St Thomas of Canterbury Primary, Nur-11y, B&G, Catholic. 18/3 and 29/4 at 9.30am. Register on 020 7385 8165 www.stthomasrc.lbhf.sch.uk

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Knightsbridge School

SW7 Prince’s Gardens Prep, 3-11y, B&G. Opening in Sept 2020. Open mornings on 3/3 and 4/5 at 10am 020 7591 4620 www.princesgardensprep.co.uk

SW11 Shaftesbury Park Primary, B&G, Nur-Y6. Bilingual and International Primary Curriculum. Show-rounds every Thurs 9.30am.

020 7228 3652 www.shaftesburypark.wandsworth. sch.uk L’ecole de Battersea, 3-11, B&G. Visits by appointment 020 7371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk Dolphin, 2.5-11y. B&G. Open Mornings Thursday by appointment.

020 7924 3472 www.dolphinschool.org.uk Belleville Primary, 4-11y, B&G. Weekly Thursday tours and by appointment.

To book: enquiries@bellevilleschool.org or 020 7228 6727 www.belleville-school.org.uk

SW12 The White House Prep, 2.5-11y B&G and Woodentops Nurseries SW4 and SW12. Babies from 6m.

Visits by appointment. www.whitehouseschool.com and www.woodentopsnurseries.com

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Hornsby House, Recep -11y, open morning 12 Mar 9am, or individual visits.

020 8673 7573 www.hornsbyhouse.org.uk Ravenstone Primary, Recep-11y, B&G. Open 9am on 26 Mar. 020 8673 0594 www.ravenstoneschool.co.uk

SW20 The Rowans, 3-7y, B&G. Weekly show-rounds.

020 8946 8220 www.rowans.org.uk

SE26 Sydenham High, 4-18y, G. Senior School Open Mornings: Weds 18 March and Weds 29 April.

Prep School Open Morning: Thurs 26 Mar Y7 Taster Sessions for current Y5: Thurs 21 May.

SW15 and SW20 Hall School Wimbledon, 4-16y, B&G. Open Days: 7 March 9.30am. www.hsw.co.uk

Outside London

SW17 The Kindergartens. SW17: Crescent I and Crescent II, and SW12: Crescent III. Visits by appointment on 01622 833331 www.thekindergartens.com

SW18 The Roche, 2-11y, B&G. Open mornings 7 May and 5 June.

020 8877 0823 www.therocheschool.com

SW19 The Study Wimbledon, 4-11y G. 14 Mar 9.30-12pm 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk Wimbledon Common Prep, 4-7y, B. Open 9.15-10.45 on 13 May, book on website.

020 8946 1001 www.wcps.org.uk

Hawthorn’s, Surrey, 2-13y, B&G. Open morning 12/3 and 1/5 after booking or by individual appt on: 01883 743048 www.hawthorns.com Burgess Hill Girls, 2.5-18y. Nur: boys to age 4y. Open Nursery 21/3 10am, Whole school 15 May 5pm. www.burgesshillgirls.com King Edward’s School Bath, 3-18y, B&G. Open Mornings: Pre-prep and Nur 6 May. Register via www.kesbath.com or call 01225 820399 Paragon, 3-11y, B&G. Contact for next open day or tours.

01225 310837 www.paragonschool.co.uk Kingswood Prep Bath, 9m-18y, B&G. Yr1&2: open 12/3 9-11am; Lower Senior: 20/6 10-12noon. www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk

March/April 2020 • Families South West 15

‘e pupils’ attitudes to learning are excellent. ey have extremely well-developed work habits and a positive approach to learning.’

ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk Parsons Green Prep 1 Fulham Park Road London SW6 4LJ T: 020 7610 8085 E: admissions@parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

16 Families South West • March/April 2020

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March/April 2020 • Families South West 17

Education News Girls at The Hawthorns School in Bletchingley, Surrey are eagerly looking forward to their second season of Football. Last year the School introduced Football as one of its four curriculum girls’ team sports for Years 5 to 8.

Vitoria Middleton, Head of Girls’ Games said: “The girls enjoyed the camaraderie of learning together, supporting each other with a can-do approach and acknowledging that it takes practice to develop new skills. They are excited to be playing a sport that is gaining recognition both nationally and globally.”

Due to the success of this trial, this year girls and boys alike will enjoy playing Football from Reception right through to Year 8.

Andy Morris, Director of Sport commented: “The Hawthorns School has an ethos of ‘Sport for All’ and encourages all pupils to enjoy sport regardless of their ability. Alongside Football girls also play Netball, Cricket and Hockey as part of the curriculum.” www.hawthorns.com

On the ball at The Hawthorns School

Hall School Wimbledon opens a sixth form

By September 2020, Hall School Wimbledon will be opening its own Sixth form, educating children aged 11 to 18 at the Senior School. The school currently teaches children age 4–16.

At the Senior School, classrooms have been refurbished to allow for enhanced digital learning as well as Google Classroom.

Going forward, the Oberon Fields site will become a space

Knightsbridge School is moving up and extending to 16

of outdoor learning, performing arts and cookery.

There will be renovated tennis courts, netball courts, a nature trail, orchard, garden allotments and a Forest School area.

Redesigned pitches will allow for more athletic use as well as refurbished change rooms for boys and girls.

For more information please visit www.hsw.co.uk.

To advertise Call:

0208 696 9680

18 Families South West • March/April 2020

Knightsbridge School (KS) will be opening its doors to older students from September 2020, starting with a class of Year 9s. KS started out as a prep school in 2006 founded by its charismatic Principal, Mr Magoo, who now wants to take the school further by adding the provision of GCSEs. Families that choose KS will now have the choice to stay for an allthrough education, eliminating the stresses of 13+ exams.

An exciting all-rounded curriculum is also being implemented which includes all the core academics as well as a personal fitness morning module, guest speaker seminars with industry experts, a 1:1 teacher and student mentoring system and an individual extended project module.

KS has an exciting new building that will host many of the senior classes, located at Elvasten Place. A great location for out of classroom learning; right beside the Natural History Museum and the V&A Museum. The designs being implementing for the building will incorporate a mature study space and area to relax, where students can feel more independent.

Mr Magoo says “It’s a very exciting time for us here at Knightsbridge, we look forward to the coming years to see how we all, staff and students, progress and develop together in this new chapter.” registrar@knightsbridgeschool.com www.knightsbridgeschool.com familiesonline.co.uk

Bilingualism

The benefits of learning a new language We live in an amazing multicultural, multi-national society. In London alone, where over 300 different languages are spoken, countless families speak their mother tongue at home and English away from it.

I

t's so sad to think of a future where people only communicate by holding phones in front of each other using a translation app! There are so many benefits—both short and long-term—to learning new languages: It's fun Learning a new language really can be lots of fun. Classes with native speakers, tailored to different age/ ability groups are best, typically including games alongside interactive teaching methods. At the very least, there are plenty of teaching apps out there if you have the discipline to log in regularly. Meanwhile, many people practise their accent and pronunciation by watching popular TV shows in a different language.

It promotes culture When your child is learning Spanish, French, German, Greek, Mandarin, Polish or Japanese (the list is endless), they will be able to communicate with a wider range of people once they have crafted their new skill. This will give them an appreciation of different cultures and a better understanding of the world.

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It is enriching While we already know that it can go far in sprawling cities like London, your child will also find it enriching when they go abroad. Even just starting with please, thank you, good morning or hullo, in my experience hotel and restaurant owners appreciate our efforts to use their language, and are particularly charmed by children's attempts. This means that holidays aren't just about sun, sea and sand but another adventure where young ones can hone their skills.

It helps with education Studies have shown that foreign language learning improves the function of the brain, which can benefit other school subjects too.

In particular, problem solving is one area that should develop, making it easier for your child to excel in other 'pattern' subjects such as maths.

Your child's English can improve In many cases, your child's grasp of English will improve after they have learnt a new language.

This is because they will understand root words, syntax and grammar. In turn, this will

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boost your child's vocabulary and writing skills, which should be noticeable when they get older and start taking important exams such as GCSEs and A-Levels.

Other languages come more naturally Once your child knows an additional language, they will find it easier to learn a third language in the future. There's no telling how many languages your child could know by the time they are in their twenties.

It can lead to wider career options Many employers take notice of foreign language qualifications because they reflect self-discipline. Meanwhile, some jobs will even specify that they require a bilingual candidate because it means they can do business with people from overseas. Essentially, multilingualism is just another skill that will (one day) make your child's CV stand out.

Start young for success It is known that as we become older, it becomes harder for the brain to absorb new information like it once could. Eager young brains are well suited to taking in and understanding new languages, so the sooner— the better! While most children will be able to grasp the skill from as young as three, the majority will still benefit by starting their linguistic journey before they reach secondary school.

March/April 2020 • Families South West 21

Shaftesbury Park Nursery Classes SHOW-ROUNDS EVERY THURSDAY from 9.30am Bilingual Class

This option will offer the invaluable opportunity for your child to learn French from an early age using a dynamic, immersion approach.

Enterprise Class

The exciting choice of: Bilingual Class or Enterprise class

This option will offer the fantastic opportunity, through an exciting outdoor programme, for your child to develop 8 key Enterprise skills: Problem solving, Leading, Aiming high, Teamwork, Creativity, Staying Positive, Sharing ideas and Listening Carefully.

For further information or to book a place for open mornings please contact the school: T: 020 7 228 3652 E: info@shaftesburypark.wandsworth.sch.uk 22 Families South West • March/April 2020

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Bilingualism

L’école des Petits

French-English cultural bilingualism from an early age Families asked L’école des Petits, in Fulham, how they achieve teaching in two languages in their school: “Founded in 1977, our bilingual schools teach the French curriculum integrated with the best parts of the British curriculum. This structure is approved by the French Department for Education and subject to DfE Ofsted inspections (consistently awarded “Outstanding” on both sites).

Our school community is very diverse with pupils coming from a vast array of linguistic backgrounds. Early bilingualism and a strong awareness and open-mindedness towards world culture turn our pupils into motivated, curious and respectful citizens.

Our aim is for them all to reach perfect oral fluency in both French and English by the age of 6. They can then acquire solid reading and writing skills with us until they turn 11 and move on.

After-school clubs ranging from yoga to football, as well as science, art and drama also expose pupils to both languages.

Beyond our education ethos governed by For each pupil, focus will be put on the the strict discipline required for bilingual “weakest” language to strengthen it in teaching (i.e: each native speaker will always order to achieve a balanced level of and only speak their own language proficiency. Classes are taught by whichever of the two they may be native speakers of both We are rightfully addressed in by their pupils), our languages, assisted by native known as the most schools offer a perfect combination of speaking assistants. Correct the French and British Education British of the use of the language is systems.

Uniforms and schoolbags are encouraged throughout the French schools! our most visible British touch, while day, even at informal times. houses and bilingual assemblies are part Mastering both languages is of the structure. Our school’s assembly song achieved through academic teaching is a testament to our truly bilingual cultural as well as a combination of arts, music and identity: it has been written in both languages sports classes which are an integral part of the using pupils’ own words about their favourite curriculum. Pupils are constantly exposed to activities at school.” both languages as class swaps and rotating science, ICT and sports workshops are held www.lecoledespetits.co.uk intra- or inter-level.

Les Petits Choux – fun French lessons for children in Southfields Now in its sixth year, Les Petits Choux runs French lessons for children at the Aspire Centre, Merton Road, SW18 4SS. Whether your “petit chou” is a complete beginner or a fluent bilingual, there will be a class to suit them.

learners playing games, reading stories, doing arts and crafts, and singing songs, and much more, all in French. On Wednesdays there are two bilingual classes from 4–5pm and a beginners’ class from 4–4.45pm.

After school on Wednesdays and on Saturday mornings, the well-equipped classrooms at the Aspire Centre are alive with the sounds of little

On Saturday morning, there is the chance for your child to do a bilingual “intensif” class from 10–11.30am. This longer class means bilingual

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children can also work on their reading and writing skills in their “cahier maternelle”.

Email now to book your child’s place: info@lespetitschoux.org.uk

March/April 2020 • Families South West 23

A book to inspire the joy of learning French Bienvenue à Shaftesbury Bilingualism

Park Primary School

By Bunmi Richards, Head of Shaftesbury Park Primary

The gift of languages is one of the best presents you can offer your child. As an experienced French teacher, Elisabeth Ruiz finds that bilingual storybooks are an ideal and fun way to engage children and ignite their interest and enthusiasm about languages. Her own book La Famille Jolineau en vacances is aimed at children learning French at primary school. With this story, children can steadily develop their curiosity and confidence with the French language without feeling the effort of learning. Her book includes colourful, eyecatching illustrations and gives the opportunity to explore all aspects of learning French:

Post Brexit, the importance of teaching and learning a foreign language is becoming all the more relevant in the classroom today.

Preparing our children for an increasingly global world where cultural exchange, travel and work opportunities are of growing significance is at the heart of Shaftesbury Park Primary School’s vision for preparing our children for the 21st century.

international mindedness and encourages personal learning.

To this end Shaftesbury Park Primary School offers something quite special—a bilingual education that is open to all! Seven years ago, we began our journey into offering the children in Battersea and beyond an opportunity to benefit from all the advantages that bilingualism brings. Using the International Primary Curriculum— a comprehensive, thematic, creative curriculum to teach subjects such as science, history, geography and art—we adapted it to teach these lessons in French with an immersive approach.

Research shows that children in immersion programs acquire impressive amounts of the second language, attain native-like receptive skills and develop much higher levels of proficiency than typical Modern Foreign Language teaching. We have now established a bilingual curriculum that is innovative, creative and powerful and develops

“ The first school in the UK to be awarded the prestigious LabelFrancEducation accreditation by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs! “

You can order the book online from www.learnfrenchforkids.co.uk Paperback (free postage) and Ebook formats available.

The Label is granted to schools promoting French language and culture as part of their specific curriculum. It recognised our school’s offer of an enhanced instruction of the French language and the teaching of other subjects in French and in promoting outstanding education in French among students and parents.

Shaftesbury Park is incredibly proud of its commitment to excellence in education, inclusion, multilinguism and French in the UK!

The Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle has been offering worldclass education for over a century, giving pupils the option of French, Bilingual and British curricula.

Today, the community welcomes more than forty nationalities and encourages confidence, solidarity and ambition.

From Nursery to Year 6, children thrive in a bilingual and dynamic learning environment. French, British and international cultures blossom with a dedicated team always engaging in varied projects.

Large outdoor spaces and spacious bright classrooms are ideal for the wellbeing of pupils. Organisation and cooperation are a few of many skills being promoted, while kindness and respect are values encouraged daily. English is taught at all levels and children quickly learn to use both languages with pleasure and ease.

The Lycée told Families: “Our school makes a simple and honest pledge: to offer every student the best conditions in which to realise their academic potential, to allow them to develop and thrive in a peaceful environment, and to enable them to achieve the level of excellence required to enter their chosen courses—even at the most competitive universities. This has

Bilingual Children’s Nursery in Streatham

Our results at the end Key Stage 2 (2019) may place us as one of top achieving schools in Wandsworth and nationally, but our curriculum offers so much more. It is a curriculum that is not restricted by testing but instead, allows our children to flourish as global citizens in an international world.

Ashbury Rd, Battersea, London SW11 5UW shaftesburypark.wandsworth.sch.uk

Parent Satisfaction Survey

To book your free tour call us today on

020 8127 8581

www.littlelinguistsnursery.co.uk 24 Families South West • March/April 2020

• • • •

reading proactively with the right pronunciation speaking as they answer questions prompted by a curious ladybird writing with some games to memorise vocabulary and learning about French culture.

Why not send your child to the Lycée? remained our mission to families since 1915. Thanks to our multilingual, multicultural and multidisciplinary education, we nurture each individual with care and equip them to become global citizens of the future.”

For over 60 years, the British Section has provided the opportunity for students to study a traditional academic programme of GCSEs and A-Levels, which are delivered in English as per an English school.

The British Section is an integral part of the Lycée, and is situated on the main site at South Kensington.

A school within a school, 220 students receive a personalised, well supported experience. Each student receives their own academic targets and are closely supported in their journey towards realising, and often exceeding, them. A weekly lesson with a tutor formalises this process and is also an opportunity to deliver an engaging programme of Personal, Social and Health Education.

The combination of a dedicated teaching body and motivated students guarantees us exceptional results.

35 Cromwell Road, London SW7 2DG www.lyceefrancais.org.uk

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Our little Bilingual Directory Schools ECOLE JEANNINE MANUEL WC1, Co-ed 3-18yrs, Bilingual school. www.ecolejeanninemanuel.org.uk LYCEE FRANCAIS, SW7, SW4, SW6 and W7 B&G, 3-18yrs French, Bilingual & British Curricula www.lyceefrancais.org.uk RUSSIAN SCHOOL, SW7, B&G www.russianschool.org.uk L’ECOLE DES PETITS & L’ECOLE DE BATTERSEA SW6 and SW11, B&G, Fulham (36yrs) & Battersea (3-11yrs). www.lecoledespetits.co.uk L’ECOLE BILINGUE W2, B&G 3-11y Bilingual French-English school. www.lecolebilingue.com SHAFTESBURY PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL SW11, B&G International Primary Curriculum and French bilingual section www.shaftesburypark.wandsworth.sch.uk

WHITGIFT SCHOOL CR2, Boys 10-18yrs; French section www.whitgift.co.uk

Nurseries ANGLO-SPANISH NURSERY SCHOOL SW4, B&G, 2-5yrs www.anglospanishnurseryschool.co.uk

L’ECOLE DU PARC SW11, B&G, 2-5yrs.

British and French education in a warm and nurturing environment 020 7993 6460 www.ecoleduparc.co.uk

LEARN FRENCH Bilingual storybook for children aged 6yrs+ www.LearnFrenchforkids.co.uk BABYCCINO SW19, Italian language and activities.

Facebook @BabyccinoClubItaliano AD MELIORA SW19, Italian tuition Facebook @AdMelioraAcademy

ITALIAN DAY NURSERY SW9, B&G, 0-4yrs Facebook @ The Italian Day Nursery

ET PATATI PATATA SW6 Popular French language classes, école du samedi, holiday activities 3-14yrs. www.etpatatipatata.com

LITTLE LINGUISTS NURSERIES SW16, B&G, Bilingual French & English. www.littlelinguistsnursery.co.uk

LES PETITS CHOUX SW11, French language classes www.lespetitschoux.org.uk

PEQUES NURSERIES SW6, Bilingual French & Spanish www.peques.co.uk

LE FRENCH PROGRAMME LTD SW6, French language club www.lefrenchprogramme.com

Classes IL CLUB ITALIANO Learn Italian with Club italiano for children and for adults.

020 8748 6418

ALPINE FRENCH SCHOOL Language tuition and holiday camps, Morzine, France.

From age 5 - adults www.alpinefrenchschool.com KIDSLINGO French & Spanish classes www.kidslingo.co.uk SPANISH HOUSE SW4, language classes www.spanishhouselondon.com GOETHE INSTITUT SW7, German language courses and culture www.goethe.de/ins/gb/en/sta/lon. html BOULE DE NEIGE SW15, 5-11yrs, French Saturday school www.bouledeneigelondonfrenchsc hool.webs.com PETITE ECOLE WIMBLEDON SW19, French & Spanish Facebook @petiteecolewimbledon

BATTERSEA SPANISH SW11, cultural centre classes and events www.batterseaspanish.com

WENLIN CHINESE SCHOOL SW11, Saturday Classes and activities www.wenlinchineseschool.org.uk

ARC EN CIEL SW19 French holiday club Facebook @ArcEncielClubs

RICHMOND DUTCH SCHOOL SW14, Saturday school www.richmonddutchschool.org.uk

COLLEGE GUARDIANS

Ever Thought of Hosting an International Student?

YOUR CHILD THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN THE WORLD

We are currently seeking host families to look after children attending boarding school in the UK whose parents are based overseas.

Our hosts look after the children during some half term holidays and occasional weekends. Dates of stays will depend very much on the school that the child attends.

In exchange for your hospitality you will receive a generous compensation package as well as the invaluable experience that hosting an international student can bring to you and your family.

For more informa on please contact Caroline Lloyd, Guardianship Manager

caroline@collegeguardians.co.uk • +44 (0) 1684 581600

www.collegeguardians.co.uk

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FamiliesSWLon

March/April 2020 • Families South West 25

Clubs & Classes for your child

Invisible goodness wrapped up in fun

Clever Clubs by Love Learning London - Includes First Phonics Club for 3-5 Years, setting families on the right path for successful reading.

- A Creative English Club for 7-11 Years for reading, writing, comprehension, confidence, public speaking.

- A Reasoning Club for 7-11 Years.

Problem solving, resilience and confidence.

11+ 7/8+ Prep. Consultation, private tuition, assessments.

Holiday Courses. Travelling Tutors.

Kind trusted tutors, highly recommended with full DBS checks.

07976 640976 Lovelearningcompany@icloud.com www.Lovelearningcompany.com

Families asked Perform founder, Lucy Quick to tell us more:

Would your child enjoy cricket?

“Perform classes are a bit like a awareness. Rescuing a mermaid pasta sauce that’s filled with hidden from a pirate ship might seem like vegetables: kids think it’s really just imaginative improvisation for 6 tasty and don’t realise that it’s full year olds, but it's teaching of healthy nutrition. I see our problem-solving and team-work classes like this - invisible goodness too. wrapped up in an hour of games, Early drama, dance and singing role-play, dance routines and lessons changed my life and songs. The children think helped shape my vision for they’re enjoying an Perform - to deliver classes Introductory hour of fun but with a specific focus on £40 discount they’re also being developing a child’s when you quote equipped with confidence and social LSW300420 if you essential confidenceskills - not to create just book by building social skills. another drama school.”

30th April.

We all want our Try a FREE no-obligation children to be happy, feel drama class. Classes in Balham, confident enough to try new things Barnes, Battersea, Chelsea, and interact well with others.

Clapham, Earlsfield, Fulham, Taking part in regular drama Kensingon, Knighstbridge, activities encourages confident and Mortlake, Parsons Green, Pimlico, fluent speaking, boosts reading and Putney, Southfields, Streatham, writing abilities and enhances Tooting, Wimbledon. Visit coordination and spatial www.perform.org.uk/try to book.

All Stars Cricket is a programme aimed at children aged 5-8 years old to give them a great first experience in cricket. Sessions are accredited by the England & Wales Cricket Board and delivered nationwide at over 2,000 centres.

All Stars Cricket will help your child develop key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in too and help create #BigMoments you’ll both treasure!

Following successful registration, All Stars Cricketers will receive a brand-new kit bag full of goodies to help them get their summer of cricket started and fully look the part when they attend their 8 weekly sessions and it’s all delivered straight to your door.

To find out more about how to get involved this summer, simply visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk and get your place booked as sessions begin May 2020.

26 Families South West • March/April 2020

Award-winning, original, multisensory musical classes.

Bubbles, costumes, massage, sensory textures and lights, puppets and more. Also deliver fabulous parties.

Classes designed for each stage of your baby’s development.

Baby bells: Newborn-sitting Beeps: Sitting-Standing Happy house: Toddler & siblings Classes in Streatham, Wimbledon, Tooting, Clapham and Balham Anna-belle@hartbeeps.com Classes in Putney, Kew, Fulham, Chelsea, Wandsworth, Barnes, Sheen, Earlsfield and Victoria e:kimmy@hartbeeps.com www.hartbeeps.com

Arts & Craft sessions Harry’s Emporium www.stylestationworkshops@gmail .com Entrance through Car park, 332 Balham High Rd, Tooting Bec, SW17 7AA Arts & craft classes sessions for Toddlers and preschoolers on Wednesdays, term time only. Two sessions 10.15-11.15 am and 11.3012.30am. £8 per class.

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March/April 2020 • Families South West 27

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When I have coloured in all my animals, we can enter the competition to go to the zoo!

Competition Entry: Email an image of your child’s chart with a minimum of 3 rows of animals coloured in to info@familiesmagazine.co.uk with your child’s name, age, your postcode and up to 50 words from you or your child explaining how the chart has helped them achieve their targets.

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Clubs & Classes Directory ART Art-K With over 30 clubs across England and over 2000 students being taught weekly, Art-K has created a community of art lovers. Students study different mediums as well as take part in yearly exhibitions and national Art-K events. Ages 6-16. Clapham, Fulham, Putney, Wandsworth, Wimbledon. customerservice@art-k.co.uk www.art-k.co.uk

MUSIC Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes Group based electronic keyboard lessons for 4 and 11 years who want to learn keyboard/piano skills.

Holiday classes. Clapham, Streatham, Tooting. mail@funkymonkey.info www.funkymonkey.info Music Bus Singing and dancing combined with coffee, snacks and play time after make for an enjoyable hour of fun. From birth up. helen@musicbus.com www.musicbus.com

Clapham Pottery After school and Saturday morning classes for children where they learn how to make and decorate pieces using a range of pottery techniques. Ages 6 and up. Located in Clapham. £80 for a 10 week term. www.claphampottery.co.uk

Mini Mozart Mini Mozart aims to get children interested in music so that instead of simply hearing, they are actively listening. For babies and toddlers. Wimbledon, Wandsworth, Battersea, Barnes. hello@minimozart.com www.minimozart.com

Paint Pots Creative Classes Starting from 6 months old in the wonderfully peaceful Treasure Basket class, children move naturally onto Messy Play, Toddler Art and Music, Early Montessori, Toddler Messy Play, Creative Storytelling and Art Club. 6 mths–6 yrs. SW10 www.paintpotshouse.com

Upbeat music courses Experience the fun and excitement of learning, recording and performing music. Sing & dance, play electric guitars and drums, record cds at their on site studios, perform at an gig at professional venues. For 4 – 18 years. upbeatmusiccourses@gmail.com londonupbeatmusiccourses.co.uk

Play With Clay Saturday morning pottery classes where children can use their imagination to create projects using different techniques. Age 6 and up. www.play-with-clay.com

PERFORMING ARTS

DEVELOPING SKILLS Little House of Science London's favourite after school club that is showing kids how fun science can be. Holiday camps, school and nursery clubs, After school STEM weekend clubs.

3-12yrs. SW7. info@littlehouseofscience.com www.littlehouseofscience.com Naomi Touch Typing Learn the importance of having the correct typing posture and at the end of the week all children will know how to touch type. Weekly Touch Typing courses for children in holidays and half terms.

7-18yrs. Fulham. naomi@nmtouchtyping.co.uk www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk

DANCE Be.Dance Focus on commercial and street dance styles, they draw upon influences from the world of musical theatre, jazz, hip-hop, tap, ballet and lyrical dance, creating inspiring choreography and developing students' technical skills. Balham, Clapham Junction and Wandsworth. From 18mths. www.bedance.co.uk La Sylvaine School of Dance Qualified Tuition in the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA) and The British Ballet Organization (BBO), tuition in ballet, tap, theatrecraft, modern jazz and freestyle. Classes for all ages. sylvaineschoolofdance.co.uk Southwest School of Ballet A ballet school that provides a continuing and progressive education in ballet for as long as they wish to study. The school promotes a love of dance in an imaginative and stimulating environment. Age 2.5 and up. www.southwestballet.co.uk West London School of Dance Ballet & pointe, jazz, tap and singing. Summer School includes Ballet, Repertoire, Choreography & Body Conditioning. From 2.5yrs. info@westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk 30 Families South West • March/April 2020

Perform Drama classes, courses and holiday camps for 412yrs. Develops the 4 Cs: confidence, concentration, communication and coordination with games, role-play, dance routines and songs, giving children the best fun they'll have all week.

Very wide number of locations. www.perform.org.uk Stagecoach Performing Arts Stagecoach teaches children and teens to sing, dance and act, not only on stage, but perform better in life. Suitable for those looking to pursue a career in performing arts or just looking to have some fun and gain some new skills. Age 4 and up. Wimbledon, Merton Park, Battersea, Tooting, Balham, Fulham and Cheam. www.stagecoach.co.uk Jigsaw Performing Arts School Jigsaw delivers fun and exciting dance, drama and singing classes. While some students join to become better performers, others join to unlock a hidden talent or overcome their shyness and increase their social skills. Age 6 months and up. Wimbledon and Balham. www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

SPORTS All star tennis Junior and Adult tennis courses, holiday camps & tennis lessons. 28 tennis courts across Wandsworth, Tooting & Putney. Making Tennis fun and accessible for all! From 3yrs. info@allstartennis.co.uk www.allstartennis.co.uk Fighting Fit Learn Kung-fu and kick boxing moves through this effective and unique training system. Improve confidence, problem solving skills, coordination, balance, flexibility, concentration. Age 4 and up.

Wimbledon, Streatham, Cheam and Tooting. tony@fighting-fit.com www.fighting-fit.com Little Kickers Four different football classes aimed at different age groups, and all focus on the play not push idea, as well as the idea that football can be educational.

Ages 2-7. Wimbledon, Southfields, Wandsworth, Raynes Park, Merton Park, Putney, Parson’s Green, Chelsea, south Kensington. www.littlekickers.co.uk

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Little Foxes club Children can enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle while enjoying a wide range of sporting activities. Choose from football, rugby, multi-sports, and gymnastics.

Suitable for children age 18 months and up. Battersea and Fulham. info@thelittlefoxesclub.com www.thelittlefoxesclub.com Mini Athletics Children learn the basic skills of running, jumping and throwing to develop sporting competence and confidence. Age 2-7 years. Wimbledon and Raynes Park. www.miniathletics.com Playball Focusing on cognitive and social development, as well as growth, Playball aims to use sport as a fun medium to develop, learn and interact with others.

Suitable for ages 2-10 years. Battersea, Fulham, Chelsea, Clapham and Balham. gavin@playballlondon.com www.playball-london.com Rugby Tots Structured play sessions take children on a journey of sporting imagination with engaging and energetic coaches supporting them every step of the way whilst teaching how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team. Ages 2-7. South Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Putney, Wandsworth, Tooting. enquiries@rugbytots.co.uk www.rugbytots.co.uk SwimWay Specializing in private and semi-private lessons, children learn the fundamentals including breath control, buoyancy, body position, gliding and correct leg kick action before moving on to strokes. Ages 3 months to 9 years. Balham, Clapham Common, Putney, Wandsworth Common and Wimbledon. 1:1 lesson £45, 1:2 lesson £29. info@swimway.co.uk www.swimway.co.uk Teddy Tennis Teddies are everywhere for these lessons. They are in photos, demonstrations, and videos, all showing inspiring images of teddy bears characters playing Teddy Tennis. Children will learn by seeing, listening and playing. Age 2 to 5 plus. Chelsea, Fulham, Wandsworth, Battersea, Wimbledon and Merton. info@teddytennis.com www.teddytennis.co.uk Water Babies From getting your little one used to the water to having them swim on your own, Water Babies has your covered through those early years. Tooting, Putney, Wandsworth, Southfields, Morden, Balham, Battersea, Fulham. www.waterbabies.co.uk Wimbledon Village Stables Horse riding and horse riding lessons. A multi-award winning riding school offering horse riders the opportunity to escape the city and enjoy the stunning countryside and wildlife of Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park. Try their state of the art, fully interactive horse riding simulator! 020 8946 8579 www.wvstables.com Youngstars Youngstars camp is guaranteed to be full of fun, games and excitement whilst introducing aspects of several sports including football, basketball, cricket, lacrosse, hockey, t-ball, tennis, rugby & athletics all within a non-competitive & all inclusive environment.

Designed to improve coordination, awareness, motor skills and above all team work. info@youngstars.co.uk www.young-stars.co.uk

Keep this page safe: each of our Classes directory contains totally different information!

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0208 088 0117

Little Voices Putney: St Mary’s Church, Putney High Street, SW15 1SA Little Voices Fulham: St Etheldreda Church, Fulham Palace Road, SW6 6JF

0208 679 4243

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March/April 2020 • Families South West 31

Easter Holiday Listings Developing skills

Chelsea Academy School www.rolemodels.me 0203 6377101 6-9 April Easter Life Skills Courses Courses for 6-11 year olds that promote greater mental wellbeing, improve school results and develop the life skills that help children thrive.

This Easter their courses will cover Resilience, Collaboration and Leadership as well as developing Confidence and a Growth Mindset. They say: “Run by our Inspirational Role Models, we can guarantee ambitious content, active learning and serious fun!”

Fulham - Various Locations contact@paperbirdslondon.co.uk www.paperbirdslondon.co.uk Get creative with Paperbirds Art during the Easter Holidays and join them for a spring inspired Art Camp at Fulham Palace.

You will paint, draw, print and experiment with many different materials and techniques, be inspired by famous artists and—as always—have lots of fun!

Bookings via the website, the camps and the weekly art classes are very popular so please book early.

Naomi Martin Touch Typing

Easter with Kids En Cuisine

www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk From 30 March-17 April Weekly touch typing courses Being able to touch type is an invaluable skill. A touch typer is not reliant on looking at the keyboard, so ideas can flow more readily, making you more productive.

Moreover, touch typing is extremely beneficial for those with learning difficulties such as dyslexia or dyspraxia. It helps with handwriting and spelling, as word patterns are learnt using muscle memory. Children who were once struggling feel liberated, their selfconfidence is boosted, as is the quality of their work. They aim to teach children how to touch type in one week and to make it fun as well! 7-18yrs. £200-250.

Wandsworth and Fulham www.kidsencuisine.com 12 and 18 April Learn how to cook good food that’s also good for you!

12th April at Whole Food Market Fulham and 18th April at Planet Organic Wandsworth.

Funky Monkey

Inspirational mentors for Easter escapades This Easter why not choose a Clarendon Inspires mentor to guide and excite your child around London’s hottest attractions and experiences?

Their 110 mentors, who are rigorously trained, are passionate about learning, well-educated and enthusiastic. Explore the Bank of England museum with Luke, who studied at Eton and is now an undergraduate in Economics at LSE. Or, tour the Houses of Parliament with Annabelle, a History undergraduate from Oxford University.

There are lots of fun, educational ideas listed on our website.

Alternatively, tell them what you’d like their mentors to do on a bespoke day out.

Mentors will even pick your children up from home and drop them back.

Pricing is on a per child basis starting from £9 per hour for groups, to £25 per hour for one-to-one. All mentors are DBS checked.

Visit www.clarendoninspires.com to find out more.

Call anytime on 020 7206 2569.

32 Families South West • March/April 2020

Paint Pots Easter Fun Paint Pots, St Mary The Boltons, The Boltons, London, SW10 9TB Book online at www.paintpotshouse.com 30 March–3 April Arts, crafts, music, games and other seasonal activities—lots of creative activities. Have fun and make friends.

Led by their fully qualified Nursery School and Creative Classes teachers.

3-6 yrs *All sessions are unaccompanied. 9.30am12.30pm, £45 / 9.30am-3.30pm, £65

Perform

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SwimWay

Computer coding workshops Dulwich 020 8090 1444, www.spark4kids.com Visit www.spark4kids.com for more details 6-9 April Easter Holiday computer coding workshops Spark4Kids are running all-day holiday workshops that introduce children to computer coding through the medium of games. Available are courses on Minecraft Modding, Roblox Coding, Robotics, Games Design, MicroBit & Arduino coding, Python, HTML/CSS, JavaScript and Unity/C# in a fun, engaging environment. Ages 5-7 years, 8-12 and 13-16. The Easter Holiday workshops are taking place in Dulwich.

Active/days out Battersea Park Children’s Zoo Battersea Park www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk All free with entrance, £2 for Cocoa Day Fun 28 March-16 April Easter Holiday Fun Find which animals have hidden Easter eggs, learn all about eggs—from painting them to egg races, make an ecofriendly newspaper plant pot, learn about bunnies and hedgehogs and don’t forget Cocoa Day Fun—all about chocolate! Running, activities run different days, children must be accompanied by an adult.

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The Little Gym

GoApe goape.co.uk Tree Top Adventure and Tree Top Challenge course in Battersea Park, open for all of the Easter Holidays.

See website for more details on prices and ages.

Kew Gardens TW9 3AB www.kew.org 4-19 April Gruffalo adventures Easter activities Take a journey through Kew Gardens’ Arboretum where visitors will encounter Fox, Owl and Snake. With a map and face-painted whiskers, children will discover the animals’ hiding spots, and interactive activities at each stop. Included with entry to the Gardens

The Little Gym Wandsworth and Fulham www.thelittlegym.eu 7, 8, 9 April Easter Camps Three hour Adventure camp 3-8 years or Skill Thrill camp 6-12 years.

Your little one can take part in an exciting, Easter-themed drop off session that includes adventures in the gym, crafts and snacks, as well as some festive challenges!

Youngstars Easter Holiday Camp Tooting, Putney, Wimbledon, West Wimbledon, Clapham Common, Battersea and Balham www.young-stars.co.uk 6-9 April and 14-17 April Enjoy some fun, games and excitement while learning the aspects of football, basketball,

FamiliesSWLon

Kids en cuisine

cricket, lacrosse, hockey, tennis among others. Non-competitive and all inclusive, every aspect is designed to improve coordination, awareness, motor skills and team work! Ages vary depending on location. From £20 for a half day, £50 for a full day.

Choice of several sessions, half days, full days and extended day (for an additional £2).

Music Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes 01732 457 100 mail@funkymonkey.info www.funkymonkey.info 4-8 yrs inclusive - complete beginners only 10-2pm Monday 6th April Herne Hill 10am-2pm Tuesday 7th April Streatham 10am-2pm Thursday 9th April Sydenham £35 for first child/£30 for subsequent siblings 'Cheeky Chick' Music Workshops Fun-packed group electronic keyboard workshops for complete beginners. Easter-themed art, music-making and fun and games aplenty!

Youthsayers Instrumental workshop

FREE Streatham Space WORKSHOP Project, Sternhold Ave, Streatham, London SW2 4PA www.streathamspaceproject.co.uk/ musicfest/youthsayersworkshop 28 March A FREE inclusive

workshop lead by Youthsayers, rising Lambeth-based youth band of international, touring Jazz/Afrobeat group, Soothsayers. The workshop is open to all ages/abilities for those interested in getting deeper into the techniques and history of the music.

Instruments welcome! 6-7.30 pm

Upbeat Easter camps 07816 901396 www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk upbeatmusiccourses@gmail.com 6-9 April and 14-17 April 10-4 Parsons Green Pop and rock fun Sing, dance, play guitars and drums, songwriting, record your tracks and perform them. 4 - 14yrs. Sibling discounts available. Instagram ‘upbeatlondon'

Drama

Held at Notting Hill Prep, 95 Lancaster Road W11 1QQ 07740 428238 www.allsortsdrama.com Allsorts drama classes for ages 7 – 11 & 11 – 14 Saturdays 11am–1pm.

Popular and fun classes designed to cover all aspects of drama including Lamda exams.

March/April 2020 • Families South West 33

34 Families South West • March/April 2020

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Easter activities Introductory £40 discount when you quote LSW300420 if you book by 30 April

Perform Chelsea, Kensington, Clapham South and Wimbledon 020 72559120 enquiries@perform.org.uk perform.org.uk 6-8 April and 15-17 April Superheroes: Perform’s three day Easter holiday course for 4-10s. Fly with them to Superhero School this April for an action-packed Top Secret Mission to save the world.

Your child will discover their own special powers as they zoom towards a supercharged showcase for family and friends. Filled with brilliant music, funky dances and fabulous costumes, this course is a real Easter treat. 4-10 years. Three day courses from 10am to 3pm each day.

Stagecoach Performing Arts Battersea 07956 288928 battersea@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/Battersea 14 - 17 April 4 days (or mornings) of dance, acting and singing for children and teens aged 4 - 16! Put on a fabulous show with experienced West End professionals in just four days/mornings! 9.30-12.30pm (46 years £120), 10am-4pm (7-16 year olds £165) Book now!

Childcare vouchers accepted.

Stars Performing Arts Clubs Tara Arts, Earlsfield www.starspaclubs.com 6-9 April Easter Holiday Theatre Club Enjoy a week of acting, dancing and singing with West End professionals. End the week with a show for family and friends in the Tara Theatre, complete with lighting, costumes and props!

Matilda ages 5-9, We Will Rock You, age 10+ Marlborough College

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Languages Et Patati Patata Hammersmith www.etpatatipatata.com 14-17 April Fun French Easter Day Enjoy some French drama, French circus, French workshops and 100% French fun! A range of fun activities all done in French immersion and led by a certified French speaking primary teacher will have your little one saying Bonjour in no time.

Workshops in the mornings and sports in the afternoon. 3-14 years of age

Sports Battersea Sports Centre Camp Battersea Sports Centre www.enablelc.org/bsc 6-9 April and 14-17 April Children can enjoy a day full of fun and a range of different sports such as football, cricket, basketball, volleyball and more! Ages 6-13.

10am to 3pm.

London Sports Academy James Boit 07421 273426 www.londonsportsacademy.co.uk 6-9 April London Sports Academy are back once more at Burntwood School this Easter, with three age groups, five different daily activities and half day laser tag sessions at no extra cost. Use promotional code families when you check out to receive 15% off your booking. A safe and inclusive kids' clubs in our community

Little House of Science Holiday Inn Forum, Courtfield Road, London SW7 4DN (1 min from Gloucester Road Station) Easter science camps 2020 30 Mar-3 April: Meet the Elements or the Exciting World of Chemistry 6-9 April (Mon-Thu): Fascinating Intro to Aerodynamics and Aerospace 14-17 April (Tue-Fri): Amazing Zoology: Explore the Fascinating World of Primates, Fish, Molluscs and Mammals Daily Monday-Friday, 9.30-3.30 (8.45 am early drop-off), For 4-7 and 8-12 years (age-adjusted & separated taught groups, 10% siblings & friends discounts)

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South West Swimming School Emanuel School, Battersea Rise and Burntwood School, Wandsworth To book or reserve a place contact 020 8767 2723 operations@swswimschool.co.uk www.swswimschool.co.uk 6-9 April (4 days) and 14-17 April Two Intensive courses 30min classes from 9am-12pm. Price for 5 day splash varies depending on ratio of class: 4:1-£130; 2:1-£180 and 1:1- £290. All lessons are running between 9-12 pm (30 min lessons only). New customers will need to pay a joining fee of £28, all new swimmers receive hat + pair of goggles as a welcome pack.

More info about other courses on the website.

Et Patati Patata

SwimWay Putney, Kew Gardens, Kensington and Balham info@swimway.co.uk or call 020 8871-3972 www.swimway.co.uk 6-9 April and 14–17 April SwimWay is delighted to announce they will be running another series of intensive swimming course during the Easter Holidays for children aged 2yrs – 9yrs. The lessons will be provided on a private or a semi-private basis for half an hour each day. You can find full details of their Easter crash course Program on their website.

Stagecoach

Yellowbird Education Locations across SW London 020 7731 0695 www.yellowbirdeducation.com anna@jrschoolsearch.co.uk 30 Mar-3 April; 6-9 April and 14-17 April Easter Workshops Hugely popular holiday workshops carefully designed to develop skills in Creative Writing, Handwriting, English Exam Preparation, Interview Skills and Reasoning.

With extensive knowledge of the British school system the workshops offer practice and support to children preparing for 7+, 8+ and 11+ entrance exams whilst aiming to build confidence and a joy of learning.

Small groups adjusted by age (6-11 years)

Role Models

Youngstars

March/April 2020 • Families South West 35

Summer holidays Marlborough College Summer School

Learn French on a family holiday in the French Alps!

Read more about the different possible holidays, course and camps at www.alpinefrenchschool.com/juniors

Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 1PA 01672 892388 summerschool.co.uk For enriching learning experiences and entertainment your whole family will enjoy, sign up now for Marlborough College Summer School – 12 July to 8 August 2020.

Young people can attend as day students or as residents with their families.

While there are over 400 inspirational courses for adults, the programme for young people is a winning formula. Junior Troopers (3-6 years) and Children’s Activities (6-9 years) adopt the multi-activity approach and feature art, music, sports and outdoor fun. Meanwhile, Young Adventurers (9-12 years) and Teenagers (13-17 years) can choose a morning and afternoon course that they continue all week. Just some of the diverse courses available this summer, include Mountain Biking, Crochet Your Own Amigurumi Pets, African Drumming, Cricket, Robotic Coding, a horrible history inspired course, Gruesome Grub and Gory Stories and even a Spy Agency! Tax-free childcare and vouchers accepted.

Alpine French School is based in Morzine in the French Alps offering the perfect location for French and activity holidays. Cleverly you can combine French lessons (for the children or all the family) with activities (for the children or as a family) for a great family holiday with never a dull moment. This is perfect for keeping sporty active children and families busy on their holidays. Alpine French School offers Morning, Day and Family Camp options from their school in the centre of Morzine.

Accommodation can be arranged if required in apartments, chalets or hotels and transfers from Geneva airport can be booked on your behalf to make the process hassle free. With activities such as tennis, mountain biking, swimming, cycling, mountain biking, paragliding, white-water rafting, hiking, canyoning, climbing, adventure park, summer luge and much more, there is never a dull moment.

36 Families South West • March/April 2020

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Babies During the first three years of life, a baby’s brain is developing rapidly which is why this period contains so many critical milestones for their speech development.

Interestingly, much of your baby's speech development depends on your "baby talk" skills as well as those of your baby!

When should babies start talking?

By Andrew Campbell

The first “baby talk” is non-verbal and happens soon after birth Babies grimace, cry, and squirm to express a range of emotions and physical needs, from fear to hunger to frustration. It is important to listen to your baby’s different cries, work out what they mean and respond accordingly.

At the age of 3 months, you’ll notice your baby listening to your voice, watching your face as you talk, and turning towards other voices, sounds and music.

Before babies start talking, they are gathering information. That information eventually becomes the foundation of the first baby talk.

And the best way for parents to help their babies make it to those first words – and thrive with language development in the months after – is to talk to them.

At around 6 months of age, you’ll hear your baby begin to babble and coo, as they play around with different sounds. This “baby talk” is a happy, gentle, repetitive, sing-song vocalisation sounds similar the world over, despite the language of a baby’s parents.

After 9 months of age, babies can say and understand a few basic words like "no" and "bye-bye." They also may begin to use a wider range of consonant sounds and tones as they try out sounds and find their own voice. Babies may also be able to point to people, objects, and body parts you name for them. They

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repeat words or sounds they hear you say, like the last word in a sentence, but they often leave off endings or beginnings of words. For example, they may say "daw" for "dog" or "noonoo's" for "noodles."

Most babies say their first words sometime around their first birthday Now, importantly, they know what they are saying. They should also respond to -- or at least understand, if not obey - short, one-step requests like: "Please put that down.”

Over the next six months, your baby will start to use language in a more recognisable way and you may start to hear them talking. You might find that initially only you and a few of your baby’s favourite people can make out what they’re saying though! By the age of 2 years, babies can string together short phrases of two to four words, such as "Mummy byebye" or "me milk." They're learning that words mean more than objects like "cup" - they also mean abstract ideas like "mine."

Over the course of the next year, your baby’s vocabulary expands rapidly, and "make-believe" play spurs an understanding of symbolic and abstract language like "now," feelings like "sad," and spatial concepts like "in."

Ideas to encourage talking The more words children hear, the more they learn.

Here are some fun things to do together to encourage your baby’s speech and language development: Chat to your baby about the things you’re doing, even if you think they’re boring – for example, ‘Daddy’s vacuuming the carpet to get rid of the dust that makes you sneeze.’

Repeat your baby’s attempts at words to encourage a two-way conversation. For example, if she says “mama” you could say “mama” back to her. Build on your toddler’s words. For example, when baby says: “train,” you say: “Yes, it’s a big red train.”

Show interest in your baby’s babbling and talking by smiling and looking him in the eye.

Respond to and talk about your baby’s interests. For example, if your baby starts playing with a toy train, you could say “Toot, toot.”

Read, tell stories, share songs and nursery rhymes with your baby.

Praise your baby’s efforts to talk. For example, if your baby points to a dog and names it, you could say: “Well done for pointing out the dog, Georgie!”

Infants all develop at a different pace, but if you're worried about your child's speech or language development, talk to your GP or health visitor. If necessary, they will refer your child to your local speech and language therapy department.

More info: www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/helping-your-childs-speech www.nct.org.uk/baby-toddler/learning-talk-and-communication-your-baby

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March/April 2020 • Families South West 37

10

THINGS TO DO WITH BABY THE FIRST YEAR by roving mum Melissa Reynolds

They say that the first three months after baby is the fourth trimester—that you’re in that fog of having a brand new person to take care of, one that has trouble conveying their wants and needs. You lack sleep, humour and the ability to see beyond those first three months.

But once those months have passed, there is a whole new world waiting for you and your baby, and that first year together can be one of the most precious times you’ll ever spend together. Families has some suggestions on how to make those moments count.

1. Record those moments. It’s true what they say, time does move so quickly, especially when watching the growth and changes in a child. Try to record as much of it as you can. Make some home movies, take lots of photos, and, if you have the time, try to find some way to organize them like a scrapbook. You’ll be glad you did when you have them to look back on.

Families Roving Mums recommend: Negin notes that she made foot and hand prints of her son which could then be framed. You could also try joining a scrapbooking class which not only helps you tuck the memories away but gets you out and about with other parents.

2. Try a Baby Class. Little minds need stimulation, just as much as you need to get out of the house and interact with other adults.

Anything that will appeal to baby’s growing senses is ideal. Try out music, singing, puppets, anything that will have your little one smiling.

The sensory awareness and fine motor control from these classes is beneficial for baby’s growing brain.

Families Roving Mums recommend: Jess loved Baby Sensory classes. She notes “Baby loved the lights, singing and activities…each week had a different theme which makes for an exciting session.” Also check out Caterpillar Music www.caterpillarmusic.com, Monkey Music www.monkeymusic.co.uk, and Gymboree www.gymboreeclasses.co.uk . There are many to choose from if you take a look.

3. Meet with other mums in your neighbourhood. Trying to find others in the same boat as you is one of the most important things you can do. Raising a child does take a village, so start building yours now. Find groups 38 Families South West • March/April 2020

you can join, that meet with their babies and share the highs and lows of motherhood. It’s important to have a support group that’s local and knows what you’re going through.

Families Roving Mums recommend: Start out with your NCT group which can provide you with support and information those first few months. The Peanut App aims to help mums meet other mums with the same likes and dislikes in common. You can also try finding some mum get togethers on Next Door.

4. Get wet. Babies like to be naked, after all,

Join a baby class and make new friends

it’s how they’ve spent the past 9 months in your body. Give them something to enjoy while naked by making the most out of bath time or going to the local pool. Try using some bubbles in the bath, toys, pouring water out of cups and even singing some songs while you splash together.

Families Roving Mums recommend: Your local swimming pool is a great place for you and baby to get wet and bob around. Bring some squishy toys and enjoy. You can also try sharing a bath with baby with bubbles and toys. Your little one will love the closeness!

Massage help babies to thrive

5. Try baby massage.. Massage can not only soothe your baby, but can help soothe your nerves too. Massage can help your baby sleep, can improve weight gain, digestion, circulation and even help with teething pain. Not to mention it’s a great way to spend time with your baby in a calm and soothing way.

Families Roving Mums recommend: You can do a great baby massage at home, courtesy of YouTube or a DVD. That way you can target baby when they are at their fussiest. Another option is organizing one with some friends or trying one out through your NCT group!

Get close to nature

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Babies

6. Get outdoors. With the right clothing and bundling, baby can spend

Get outdoors-it will lift your spirits

quite a bit of time outdoors. Not only is the fresh air good for you both, but if the weather is nice and sunny, the vitamin D will do you good too! Try out a farmer’s market for bright colourful fruits and vegetables, talk a hike through the forest or even just sit in the park and take in your surroundings.

Your little one will love taking in all of the new sights and sounds.

Families Roving Mums recommend: There’s no shortage of parks and open green spaces in London to take a walk or sit for a while. Head to a farmers market and get some shopping done at the same time. Check out www.lfm.org.uk to find one close to you.

7. Take in a movie. There’s no better time to take in some of the movies you might have been missing. Many cinemas offer mum and baby movie times with lower sound and softer lighting. Plus you’re among other moms, so no need to worry if your little one starts to cry!

Families Roving Mums recommend: Many cinemas offer baby movie times, check out their website for details. Try Odeon’s newbies, or Big Scream at Clapham Picture House or The Ritzy in Brixton.

8. Learn baby sign language. It can be difficult to understand what all of those cries and noises mean the first year. It can make you feel frustrated and at a loss as to what your baby wants and needs. Why not give baby sign language a try! It will allow your infant to communicate their needs more clearly to you and it’s an amazing bonding experience.

Families Roving Mums recommend: There are many classes out there, including those online. Check out Sing and Sign www.signandsign.co.uk or Tiny Talk www.tintalk.co.uk, which both run classes in the South West area.

9. Get physical. Exercise will not only help you shed any extra baby weight, but will make you feel better too with a kick of endorphins. Why not involve your baby if you can? Try some mum and baby yoga, or dancing with baby, buggy fit. It gives you time together, plus a good boost of energy!

Families Roving Mums recommend: Why not give a baby and yoga class a try, some buggy fit or even a dance class with baby. Not only will it boost those endorphins, you’ll meet some other mums looking for a bit of company too!

10. Story time at the library. All children love to be read to, no matter what their age. And they benefit from being read to also. Check your local library for story times so you can join other mums and your baby can fall in love with books.

Families Roving Mums recommend: Check the website of your local council to find the library closest to you and what they offer. You may find they also offer special seasonal activities and even meet ups for mums and babies.

The first year is hard, and it can be even harder doing it by yourself. Try one, or try all of the points above and hopefully you too will start to grow your own village. Child-raising isn’t easy and we all benefit from one.

Learn baby sign language

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March/April 2020 • Families South West 39

Montessori NEWLY REGISTERED Well stocked Montessori environment, ages 2 - 4 yrs Streatham Methodist Church Riggindale Road, SW16 1QH Register Interest/Contact: 07368 454 408 montessori@souniquechild.co.uk www.souniquemontessori.co.uk

ENGLISH NANNY/TEACHER Available - full or part time 6 days a week.

Very flexible.

Qualified and experience teacher for English and Maths from early years to 10 years old.

Homework help and extra English and maths lessons.

Enhanced and updated DBS. Paediatric First Aid Qualified.

Child Care Qualified from Birth to Primary age group.

Excellent references.

Own car with Kensington and Chelsea parking permit.

And a mother myself... Call Laura: 07912 037769

40 Families South West • March/April 2020

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Babies

Thinking of using cloth nappies?

Roving mum Irene Bausas shares what she learnt.

“I am using cloth nappies with my second one as I felt bad thinking about where our waste ends up. It was quite overwhelming doing the research and finally taking the plunge.

For me the first 3 months were crazy, I was juggling 2 children on very little sleep so when I started cloth nappies, it just stressed me out more and I nearly gave up on it. It is harder work, specially number 2 nappies but there’s a certain satisfaction with using cloth nappies.

You’re saving money and saving the earth. So my advice would be don’t start it too soon.

There are Facebook groups for cloth nappy users. I also met a lady through the group who became my mentor. It was useful to chat with someone who knows more about it.

There’s also the Nappy Lady. You can contact her for an initial free assessment and she’ll make recommendations based on your lifestyle/needs.

The initial cost of cloth nappies is quite high but you can buy them second hand. I even got some of mine for free from a local parent group.

My baby did not take it to it at the start but with some tweaking, change of nappy brand (I swear by Bumgenius), letting him get used to it, we are now using fewer disposable nappies.

I’ve been using Little Gubbins cloth wipes (available via Amazon) and they are amazing!

They’re the perfect size for wiping up messy hands and faces. They come in different colours so I colour code them for face and bums and cost less than other brands. “

Helping you find a nanny

How young should your baby start being active?

Kirsty Fletcher started Nanny State with the goal of helping families find the perfect nanny. With a diploma in Nursery Nursing and over 20 years of experience as a professional nanny, she became the go-to person for parents looking for advice when hiring.

She now offers a personal service in South West London that removes all the stress in finding and employing the perfect person.

If you are looking for a new nanny, then let Kirsty’s wealth of experience benefit you and your family and get in touch for a free initial consultation.

Without you knowing, your baby has been active from 7 weeks old in your womb. This increases periodically from week 15–17. It is recommended to create an environment “parent & child together” where babies receive enough stimulus to allow their brain to develop. Elements such as music, parallel bars,

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bouncing mats and colourful equipment will boost your baby’s overall sensory perception development.

You’ll find all these elements at The Little Gym Wandsworth and Fulham 020 8874 6567 wandsworth_fulham@thelittlegym.eu

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Book an initial consultancy meeting, at a time and location to suit you, via their website www.nannystate.com

FREE to Families readers, usually £185

March/April 2020 • Families South West 41

LITTLE ANGELS NURSERY SCHOOL A Traditional Teaching Nursery - Learning through Play Ofsted rated 'Good' nursery.

Established in 2000, very homely, friendly and staff are fully qualified in Early Years. Age 3 months to 5 years with three spacious rooms to explore, learn and grow in confidence and intellect. There are two large gardens. Open all year 8am to 6pm. 15/30 hours weekly free sessions available for 2-4yrs.

Please contact our office on 020 7274 8333. info@littleangelsbrixton.co.uk www.littleangelsbrixton.co.uk 50 Gresham Road, Brixton, SW9 7NL "Overall, staff provide a stimulating learning environment where children are motivated and eager to learn" OFSTED

St Mary Magdalen Montessori St Mary’s Summerstown Montessori

SW14 : 020 8878 0756 • SW17 : 020 8947 7359

For children aged 18months — 5years Monday — Friday Mornings Afternoon Sessions available

www.sparkiesnurseryschool.com Email: grace@sparkiesnurseryschool.com or call 07939~268~861 to arrange a visit 194 Ramsden Road | Balham | SW12 8RQ

42 Families South West • March/April 2020

Providing Education and Care in a Warm, Welcoming Environment including Cookery, Ballet, Dance, Football and Singing as part of our curriculum.

Private fees or Free Government Funding.

Good OFSTED with excellent love and care.

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THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

THE MONTESSORI CHILDREN

HOLIDAY AND AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS

We provide a delightful environment for children from 2yrs of age. Offering the full Montessori curriculum with visiting teachers for Music, Dancing, Yoga, French, Drama, Sports & Gymnastics.

Local children up to the age of 8yrs are welcome to join in with our fun and creative activity days during school breaks.

School pick-ups and homework clubs are also available during term time.

CALL US TO BOOK A VISIT TO THE NURSERY

0208 673 8037 102 Chestnut Grove Balham, London, SW12 8JJ

TEA TIME FOR TODDLERS This session takes place from 3:30pm to 4:30pm for children from approximately 2yrs of age to attend with an adult

www.themontessorischool.co.uk

Dawmouse Montessori Nursery School

Passionate about teaching and learning

www.dawmouse.co.uk

Dawmouse Brunswick: Brunswick Club | 34 Haldane Road | Fulham | SW6 7EU | Tel: 020 7381 9385 Dawmouse St Peters: St Peters Church Hall | St Peters Terrace | Fulham | SW6 7JS | Tel: 020 7835 5731

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March/April 2020 • Families South West 43

First eco-nappy to be named as "Best Performance Nappy Range"

Babies

Having fewer toys may be better You’ve probably suspected it—well, it may now have been confirmed! Children who have too many toys are more easily distracted, and do not enjoy quality playtime, a new study suggests.

Researchers at the University of Toledo in Ohio, US, found that youngsters were far more creative when they had fewer toys to play with.

They also played with each for twice as long, thinking up more uses for each toy and lengthening and expanding their games.

The authors of the study conclude that parents, schools and nurseries should pack away most of their toys and just rotate a small number regularly, to encourage children to become more creative and improve their attention spans.

More information: www.sciencedirect.com

Whilst just 7% of parents opt for a reusable nappy, the other 93% would like a more sustainable option in a disposable range. But they want reliability and quality as well.

Bamaboo has proven this is possible. Bamaboo

by Mama Bamboo is a premium range of nappies with softer-than-cotton bamboo layers, compostable liner and natural, chlorinefree pulp core. Designed to provide babies with a gentle, safe, comfortable experience, all products are tested rigorously to ensure they are suitable for even delicate, new born skin.

They are hypoallergenic, naturally antibacterial and contain no harsh chemicals. Along with bamboo’s natural temperature regulating and moisture wicking properties and the liner’s breathable qualities, manufacturers say these nappies can also reduce nappy rash. www.bamaboo.co.uk

Bamaboo is the only eco-friendly nappy brand to ever win the Mother & Baby award for BEST PERFORMANCE NAPPY RANGE

Over half of parents feel lonely New research has found that over half (56%) of parents with children under the age of 5 years experience loneliness at least some of the time.

The study by the charity, Coram Family and Childcare reveals that the issue affects significantly more women than men, with twice as many mothers than fathers saying they often feel left out, as well as younger parents, with nearly 37% of parents aged 18 to 24 often feeling a lack of companionship, compared to 21% of parents aged 25 to 34.

Loneliness is most prevalent around the birth of a baby, particularly if parents are unable to get out of the house easily and when the children are older but haven’t yet started school.

Focus groups conducted by Coram Family and Childcare revealed that parents felt the best way to combat loneliness and isolation is to meet other parents by participating in activities that their child will enjoy.

More information: www.familyandchildcaretrust.org

Don’t buy your premium buggy — hire it!

Founder Dr Jackie Lenders told Families: “The inspiration for Buggi came from our own experience of having a child. With safety and comfort in mind, we spent over £1,000 on a larger buggy for our daughter, only to find that 6 months later we needed a more lightweight model to whizz around town with.

We did some research and found it wasn’t uncommon for parents with multiple children to have bought 4+ different models, costing several thousand pounds. We created Buggi to provide a solution: a more affordable and sustainable alternative to buying short-lived buggies.” info@buggi.co.uk www.buggi.co.uk

Calling all baby Scientists!

Help us discover how babies & kids learn!

We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at the Birkbeck Babylab in central London. Our prime location is easy to reach via public transport and we refund travel expenses.

020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk 44 Families South West • March/April 2020

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Free events for your weekends or for the Easter holidays St. Patrick’s day in London

Fun family photos

Piccadilly www.london.gov.uk 15 March Get there early for a good spot to watch the elaborate floats, marching bands and Irish dancing schools strut their stuff. End up at Trafalgar Square for the St. Patrick’s Day Festival and enjoy the best in Irish food, drink, arts and performance.

British Museum www.britishmuseum.org

The Oxford and Cambridge boat race

See our What’s On section for more FREE events Enjoy earth hour on the 28 March

15 March-5 April Develop your photo editing skills and use our green screen to create a picture of your family interacting with some of the Museum’s most fascinating objects. 5+yrs, drop in.

Underbelly Festival

River Thames between Putney and Mortlake www.theboatraces.org 29 March Pick a side of the river, pick a team, and start cheering! Up to 250,000 people line the riverbanks every year to cheer on Oxford and Cambridge in their annual rowing boat race.

Southbank www.underbelly.co.uk 5 April– 29 September The popular festival is back for another year. Located on the Southbank, the Underbelly Festival combines the best of Underbelly Festival and London Wonderground, to bring you the best in circus, comedy and family entertainment.

Watch London go dark for Earth Hour

Scenes in the Square at Leicester Square

All over London 28 March Not only can you participate, you can also watch much of London go dark for Earth Hour. Between the hour of 20:30 and 21:30 most of London will go dark to raise awareness for climate change, including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye!

Leicester Square www.leicestersquare.london Until 30 June Join some of film’s most loved characters through an interactive trail of eight bronze statues that welcome you to touch, talk, dance and sing. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with your favourites!

Make the most of London free museums!

Family Saturdays Cherry blossoms in London All over London March and April With winter behind us, it’s time to get outside and enjoy what nature has to offer. First on the list, searching for the best locations around to find some cherry blossoms in bloom! St. James’s Park, Greenwich Park and Kew Gardens are top on the list.

Final Saturday of every Month Battersea Arts Centre www.bac.org.uk On the last Saturday of every month, families have the run of the Battersea Arts Centre for a day of food, fun and free activities. Face painting, music, toy and clothes swaps and more! Storytelling for under 5s.

Global recycling day events

Mudlarks Gallery

Location to be announced www.globalrecyclingday.com 18 March The Global Recycling Day team will showcase the scale of what is possible, by using large bundles of recycled materials at a central location. You could share your own global recycling day on their website or social channels? Check the website for more information.

Museum of London Docklands www.museumoflondon.org.uk On now until further notice Mudlarks offers an interactive space where young ones can learn in a fun and stimulating way. The sessions are aimed at those from babies up to 8 years old. There is also a soft play area for young ones. Mudlarks is free, but a ticket is required.

Imagine Festival is truly fantastic

Marvel at the blossom at Kew Gardens

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PARTIES

Reducing waste at parties: think reusable party kits! By Roving mum Irene Bausas We go to a lot of birthday parties and the amount of rubbish we generate after every party is enormous. Parties are a great way to teach the children about sustainability and what we can all do to help reduce waste.

Reusable party kits are growing fast all over the UK. Party kits usually contain reusable plastic plates and cups for about 30 children. Some do it for free/charity, some run it as a business with washing up service, birthday party themes,

all the same fun but a lot less disposables. If there’s none in your area, maybe you and your friends can consider starting one for your community/school. www.partykitnetwork.uk Do also look at Greentail.co.uk You can hire a full set of re-usables , eco-friendly and good looking party tableware made of bamboo. They have an affordable door to door delivery and collection service.

Some unusual, and plastic-lite, party bag ideas By Jude Fellowes As a mum of three, I know that opinion on whether party bags are an essential component of a children’s party is almost as divided as on whether it’s really necessary to invite the whole of your child’s class to their party.

I like to think of myself as a good parent (most of the time), but I confess I do my very best to avoid party bags! I loathe looking round for suitable tat to put in them and feel guilty about the fact that most of what I’m buying will end up in landfill or down the back of my fellow parents’ sofas.

Having said this, I would NEVER let my daughter know what I think of party bags because she LOVES them. She also enjoys the excitement of giving them to her friends.

So, love them or loathe them, if you are going to “do” party bags, then here are some budget friendly suggestions: Books You can get hold of reasonable quality children’s books from discount book stores a little as £1 or £2 a book – and at least this is a gift that’s educational.

Personalised biscuits/cupcakes Buy or bake some gingerbread men or cupcakes and ice with the name of each party guest for them to take home. This is something your child will also enjoy helping with.

Flowerpot with a packets of seeds Why not get the children to decorate the pot and plant the seeds as a party activity.

Bumper packs of sweets Buy several large bulk packets of sweets, divide into small portions and wrap in cellophane for each guest. Tie with a pretty ribbon.

Go traditional Party blowers, balloons and bubbles always bring a smile to childrens’ faces almost regardless of age, and most supermarkets tend to have a good selection of these party staples on special offer.

Sock puppets Younger children love sock puppets, so get them to make their own. Buy some cheap socks and colourful craft materials with which to decorate them and you have a fun party activity and another memento for their party bag.

The Little Gym parties Little Gym offers private, fully supervised parties where you can enjoy exclusive use of the whole gym. The party is led by two qualified gymnastics instructors—children will have one hour to explore the gym during which the instructors will facilitate age-appropriate games and physical activity. Trust us, they’ll be busy!

Little Gym use special gymnastics equipment as well as their parachute, balls and hoops. After an hour of fun and games in the gym, it’s time for birthday cake in the special decorated party area. The party is private so your child and birthday guest will have 100% of the team’s attention. The best bit? They handle all the details and clean all the mess—you just show up with the children. £360 for members, £410 non-members, for 12 children; maximum 24 children and any additional child pays £12.

The Little Gym Wandsworth and Fulham, Compass House, Riverside West, SW18 1DB thelittlegym.com; 020 8874 6567; wandsworth_fulham@thelittlegym.eu

PARTIES! Wonderfully fun musical parties for your under-5’s! Guitar-accompanied songs with actions, joining in, jumping and dancing, instruments, puppet and parachute!

The perfect party for little ones.

Call 020 8677 6871 info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

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PARTIES Adam Ants offers amazing parties at affordable prices.

Creative cake and coffee shop in Fulham

Adam Ants and his talented team make sure their parties are non stop fun. With something for all ages: magic, balloon modelling, puppets, music, dancing, games, face painting.

We love Jack and Beyond, a creative cake and coffee Shop, where your child will enjoy an unforgettable birthday party full of fun, creativity and cake!

You can hire tables and chairs/bouncy castles/soft play and ball ponds.

Why not invite your favourite character to the party from Mickey Mouse to Pepper Pig and many more?

The birthday boy or girl can choose their favourite cake flavour, design their birthday cake and share it with their friends. The children also have a glimpse into the life of a cake decorator and learn how to decorate their own Gingerbread cookies.

020 8959 1045 / 07969 121094 info@adamantsparties.co.uk www.adamantsparties.co.uk

They also host Cake Decorating Classes for beginners. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff will show you that you don’t have to be a star baker to decorate your own cakes and biscuits: Learn the basics from how to make your own piping bags to creating simple designs with Royal Icing and impress your friends and family with your skills at your next birthday party!

Of course you will get to take all your creations home with you after the class.

606 Fulham Road SW6 5RP info@jackandbeyond.com https://jackandbeyond.com

Go Ape for your child’s next party!

Looking for a unique and memorable birthday celebration which offers something a little different? Why not treat your young ones to their very own jungle VIP experience with an outdoor adventure.

Watch in delight as your child and their tribe take to the trees on Battersea Park Treetop Adventure course. They will spend an hour of canopy exploring, trail blazing and wobbly obstacles, all up to 6 metres off the forest floor. Return to earth by descending an epic zip wire, then enjoy a picnic lunch in the Party Rooms—the perfect place for the children to exchange gifts and dig into their well-deserved Go Ape party bags.

020 7223 0580 www.goape.co.uk

Gambado Chelsea This soft play centre in Chelsea offers a huge play frame, dodgems, a carousel, a toddler area, a café and a wide choice of party and party themes.

Laser Tag Parties Forget the PAINball experience, why not try Laser Tag! Laser Tag is a game, a bit like “tag” or “hide and seek”, where players generally run around, trying to “tag” and “find” each other. The game has evolved to new levels with the introduction of the Quote PF28 infrared beams of light sometimes called “lasers”—and kids love them! They also have foam dart parties for the younger when you book players. to grab yourself

a £20 discount Party with the Tiger You can choose from their ever popular make a bear workshops, or their fabulous Tiger Party and Tiger Tots party package where Gambado the Tiger himself is a guest. Short of time?

You can also choose party bags, party plates, helium balloons and even an additional party host for an extra pair of hands.

Good to know: Parties cost from £9.95 per child. When you book a party your child gets a free month of play! Free parking available for Gambado visitors every Saturday & Sunday.

Arrange your party by contacting 020 7384 8901 or email chelsea@gambado.com or head to www.Gambado.com/parties to see all your options and to book.

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What’s On March and April 2020

The Cutty Sark

Diary dates SPINE Festival Libraries in Wandsworth, Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea , Southwark, Hammersmith and Fulham 5-15 March Youth Arts Festival Libraries are celebrating young people’s power to change the future of our planet in a special arts festival. A chance for local children and schools to get creative in an exciting, free programme of events. Children will meet and work with spoken word and visual artists and create a legacy artefact. Expect to be surprised, inspired and entertained!

Mitcham VR Festival Digitaldrama.org 7 March Showcasing state of the art immersive technologies, this incredible and free one-day event will present Virtual Reality and 360-degree films, giving visitors the opportunity to engage with a broad range of movies.

Skill Share Saturdays Balham library 16 Ramsden Road, SW12 8QY www.TheWiserCollective.com 28 March and 25 April The Wiser Collective, a new intergenerational community initiative that matches older people with skills to younger families who need them the new, We has launched these monthly, free love this! events for local residents of different generations to meet in an informal way to discuss their hobbies and interests. Families with young children wanting to work with older people outside of the monthly events can also do so outside of these days. From 2-4pm. FREE

Boat race 2020 family day

SEN events Eddie Catz

St Mary’s Church, southern end of Putney Bridge 29 March Family day The perfect location for families to soak up the atmosphere together as the iconic sporting event takes to the Putney riverside, with a big screen to watch the BBC coverage live from start to finish.

Bouncy castle, face painting, BBQ and more. Raising money for the Parish Support Fund to help local communities. From noon.

www.eddiecatz.com Exclusive session of play SEN for all Special Needs Event children, their siblings and parents. Sessions include full access to the soft play area, disco room with music turned down and soft lights. Wheelchair users have access to area with soft mats, balls and toys. Quiet chill out area where children can have a little quiet time if needed.

Earlsfield 16 &17 March 6-7.30pm Wimbledon 16 March & 13 April 6-7.30pm.

NCT Nearly New Sale Clapham & District branch, Broomwood Methodist Church 155a Broomwood Rd, SW11 6BD www.nct.org.uk 7 March 9.30-11.30am £2 priority entry for card carrying NCT members. FREE entry after 11am.

HMS Belfast SE1 2JH www.iwm.org.uk 5-14 April Sea legs Pick up a Kit Bag and learn more about the crew who served on board HMS Belfast during Operation Neptune in 1944. Teams will work together to find hidden messages, predict the weather for sailing, discover ship life and crack Morse code. 10am2pm, included in admission price.

4, 11 + 18 April Ship Shape The whole family is invited to help keep the iconic warship, HMS Belfast, in tip-top condition. Find out what it takes to conserve HMS Belfast and put your learning into practice by working through specially assigned tasks searching for hungry insect pests and caring for fabrics with specialised tools.

11am-1pm and 1.30-3.30pm, included in admission price.

50 Families South West • March/April 2020

CONCERTS Bach to Baby www.bachtobaby.com The critically acclaimed classical concert series for baby and you.

Outstanding musicians, exhilarating performances. Check the website for the programme.

18 March, 15 April in Kensington 20 March, 17 April Clapham 21 March, 18 April Wimbledon 28 March, Balham

Morden Hall Park

Wigmore Hall

www.nationaltrust.org.uk 7 & 8 April Quacky Races One of Morden Hall Park's favourite traditions is back. For £2.50 borrow a plastic duck and race it down the river to see if yours will be the fastest. 11am-3pm

W1U 2PB www.wigmore-hall.org.uk 28 March Family day: coastal adventures. Age 5-7 20 March Chamber tots: jungles and rivers Music-making workshop for children aged 1–2.

LGBT Parents Group Coin Street Children's Centre, Southwark Opportunity for LGBT parents and their children to meet informally, take part in play activities and listen to guest speakers. Just turn up, no booking required. 10am-12pm, ages 0-8 years

Mum2mum nearly new sales For enquiries about this event or to book a business stall please email tessa@mum2mummarket.co.uk www.mum2mummarket.co.uk 21st March At Ricards Lodge High School, Lake Road, SW19 7HB 10am12pm.

25th April At Immanuel and St Andrew's Church, 452 Streatham High Road, SW16 3PY 3.30pm-5.30pm.

The Royal Albert Hall www.royalalberthall.com 14 March Opera for kids Performed by members of Albert’s Band, this concert features a carefully selected ‘proper’ classical repertoire but presented in a relaxed environment for children to express themselves, with no expectation to stay still or be quiet.

11am & 1.30pm £12 adult, £6 child 18 April I Piano The perfect show to bring your little ones to, as part of Love Classical at the Royal Albert Hall, an interactive family show combining thrilling theatre with stellar piano playing, and spellbinding shadow puppetry with everyone in the room.

11am & 1.30pm £11adult, £11child familiesonline.co.uk

Power UP at the Science Museum Photo: Benjamin Ealovega

THEATRE Tara Arts 356 Garratt Ln, Earlsfield, SW18 4ES 1 April Froggy's Famous Fanclub Froggy's Famous Fanclub is named in honour of 'Froggy' the puppet friend who has participated in every one of Jake's music with pre school kids over the last 20 years. Child £7 (sibling £4.50) adults go free! 9.15am-10.45am

Turbine Theatre SW11 8AB www.theturbinetheatre.com New theatre at Battersea Power Station.

8-18 April The Jungle Book A fresh retelling of Rudyard Kipling’s classic Mowgli stories, packed with adventure, comedy, puppetry and original music that takes you deep into the magical heart of the jungle. Age 4+

Little Angel Theatre www.littleangeltheatre.com Until 27 March The bed Take a journey sprinkled with fantasy and escapism, where you will meet elephants, macaws and parakeets - without ever leaving the comfort of your own bed. This enchanting poem by Sylvia Plath, written for her own children, is brought to life in a special show for babies and toddlers. Ages up to 3 years, £9 children, £11 adults.

Until 18 April The Paper Dolls When a little girl cuts out a string of paper dolls she takes them by the hand and together they go on a fantastical adventure whirling through their home

The children’s workshop, Foundling Museum and garden. Adapted from the acclaimed book by Julia Donaldson, this magical tale is brought to life through puppetry and music. Ages 3-8, £12 children, £14 adults.

Peacock Theatre WC2A 2HT Families www.ballet.org.uk/myloves this! first-ballet-cinderella/ 9-18 April My First Ballet: Cinderella English National Ballet and English New Ballet School bring a new version of the much-loved fairy-tale in a series created especially for children as young as three. Adapted to an hour in length and with a narrator to help young audiences follow the story, this is the perfect introduction to the magic of ballet. Tickets from £10.

Leicester Square Theatre www.leicestersquaretheatre.com 23 & 30 April Captain Breadbeard's Bready Brilliant Comedy Cookbook A surreal 2-handed comedy sketch show.

Fast- paced, pun-tastic and breadybrilliant... with chicken walking tutorials, cracker eating contests and buttered bread experiments. All ages. £12

Lyric Hammersmith W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 25 April Sunshine Audiences are promised plenty of belly laughs, fun, audience participation and the odd bit of flying seaweed! Age 3+ 14 March There was an old lady who swallowed a fly Age 2+ 21 March Beastly belle A contemporary twist on the classic Beauty and the Beast tale. Featuring a skillful mix of

Chocolate Tuesday at Chelsea Physics Garden

puppetry, film projections and an original musical score. Age 4+ 28 March One duck down Inspired by a Winner true tale that saw of Family Show 7000 rubber of the year at ducks cast adrift in Vault Festival a mighty storm.

Age 3+ 7-11 April Chloe and the colour catcher Chloe lives in a world with only one colour; grey. This is a call to arms for young activists and future worldchangers to speak out against what’s wrong and to celebrate their differences. Age 4-7

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice www.puppetbarge.com 4-19 April Hanging by a thread An exciting marionette show by visiting multi-award winning Italian puppet company Di Filippo Marionette. Age 3+ Until 5 July Brer Rabbit Visits Africa Using traditional hand carved marionettes and beautifully narrated by Rudolf Walker. Age 3 +

Cambridge Theatre WC2H 9HU www.matildathemusical.com Booking until Dec 20 Matilda the musical Multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl.

Colour House Theatre Watermill Way, Colliers Wood, SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Until 12 April Hansel and Gretel Find out if the bond between a brother and sister can prevail over an evil witch in one of Colour House Theatre’s favourite musical productions. 12pm and 3pm £12/£10.

25 April-28 June The Little Mermaid Arielle, against her father’s wish, swims to the top of the water where she sees peculiar creatures with two legs and feet. What will happen? Andersen’s enchanting tale is adapted in this innovative musical.

Unicorn theatre SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com 15 March-3 May Gulliver's travels Blending film and live performance, this playful, funny and highly inventive production uses Jonathan Swift's biting satire to view our own world from a very different angle. Ages 7+, £8 children, £12 adults.

17 March-3 May WILD Adapted from the glorious picture book by artist Emily Hughes, Wild is told with atmospheric sound, movement and puppetry, celebrates the free spirit in all of us.

Ages 2-6, from £12.

Polka Theatre The Polka is currently engaged in an exciting A magical rebuilding phase, experience! completing in autumn 2020. Improvements will include an extended Adventure Theatre, a centralised Creative Learning space offering an expanded programme, a new multisensory garden and improved outdoor play area. continued on p.52

Alicja Ostrowska artist, illustrator and art workshops Work exhibited at Classic Prints, Chelsea, E&A Wates, Streatham and the Riverside Gallery, Barnes Alicja is a local mum, whose work we stumbled upon in E&A Wates Streatham. We love her illustrations, contemporary paintings and limited edition prints which would be perfect for any room including a child’s bedroom.

She also takes commissions for children, pet and people portraits. See her website to browse her collection or see her work at the above galleries. Nice work!

alicja@alicjadesigns.com | www.alicjadesigns.com

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The Colour House Theatre

New Wimbledon Theatre www.atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre/ 20 & 21 March The Emperor’s New Clothes Expect bright colours and over-the-top characters as Act One reinvents the classic Andersen tale for a world gone fashion-mad! From £11 16-18 April Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens Fly away with this stage adaptation of J.M.Barrie’s lesser-known prequel story. Discover the origins of how one child called Peter became ‘the boy who wouldn't grow up.’

Streatham Space Project SW2 www.streathamspaceproject.co.uk New venue and bar. Comedy nights and new performers, new works/plays/music for adults and children. Monthly memberships or pay per show.

29 March. PLAY!! A thrilling immersive performance fuelled by the think tank of its audiences' inner child. Suitable for all ages. £5/£8

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

Dinosnore, Natural History Museum

Chloe and the Colour Catcher, Lyric Hammersmith Photo: Paul Blakemore

technology on tablets, and see yourselves as part of Museum objects 5+ Drop in, FREE. 29 March-25 April Digital little feet Touch, play, make and discover while you explore animals from the British Museum's collections. Under 5S Drop in, Free.

8 March-4 April Samsung great court games Come to the Great Court with your family to play digital games, solve challenges and explore trails that will lead you to unexpected places in the Museum! 5+ Drop in, Free.

11 April Colour the Collection Design your own colour schemes for some of the Museum's most famous objects. 5+ Drop in, Free.

19 April Egyption photo booth Use technology to turn yourself into a pharaoh, an Egyptian god and other characters! 5+ Drop in, Free

Life before dinosaurs A fascinating, family-friendly exhibition you can sift through interactive dig pits, follow an adventure trail around the show, and get creative in an art area as you discover more about this mysterious time period.

Until May 2021 Green turtle A magnificent taxidermy mount of a male Green Turtle, Chelonia mydas, on loan from the Natural History Museum is on display in the Natural History Gallery.

Until 19 April. Stages of making Step into an immersive exhibition where all the artworks have a story to tell about design, techniques and time. Inspired by the history of the Horniman and its collections. Works include painted walls, table tops made from yoghurt pots and a giant rag-rug created from used t-shirts by members of the public. Free.

Chelsea Physic Garden

Museum of Childhood

SW3 4HS www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 7 April Chocolate Tuesday The day includes craft activities, a Garden tour, chocolate tasting and the chance to create your own mixtures to take away.

10.30am-2.30pm. For ages 6-11 9 April A passion for plants: beginners gardening Take something to grow at home. 10.30am-2.30pm Age 3-6.

E2 9PA www.vam.ac.uk/moc/ 4 April to 5 April Magical Museum Sleepover 2020 An evening of Museum enchanted Sleepover! exploration, magical mayhem, exploding potions (and wands) and musical bedtime story, 6-12 year olds (accompanied by an adult), £40pp 19:00-10:00, a

British Museum

Foundling Museum

WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org Digital workshops Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety of themes. FREE, 11am-4pm, for ages 7+ (unless stated).

21 March-12 April Build Roman Britain in minecraft Build a wall in Minecraft to mark the edges of your empire, or make a unique creation inspired by the Romans in Britain. Find out about Roman Britain, from Claudius’ invasion to Hadrian’s famous wall, through the Museum's objects. FREE, drop-in, for age 7+.

22 March Make a mosaic mask 5+ Drop in, Free.

28 March Green screen greeks Discover how to use green screen

WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 8 April Easter egg marbling Use multi-coloured marbling inks to create swirling designs on your Easter egg 5+

Imperial War Museum www.iwm.org.uk SE1 6HZ 4 & 5 April Spies and disguise Take a crash course spy school inspired by real life spies from the Second World War to the present day. This secret mission involves dressing up to look the part, an assault course with Commando Joes, object-handling, immersive theatre elements and gallery activities. 11am4pm, free drop in.

6, 8, 10-13, 13, 15 and 17-19 April Story seekers Learn about the global impact of conflict, from the First World War and Second World War to today.

Get hands-on with real artefacts and explore some of the most interesting and unusual stories of conflict. Free drop in.

Museum of London www.museumoflondon.org.uk From specially-designed interactive children's galleries, free activity bags and stimulating online games, as well as all-important details like high chairs and baby-changing spaces, the Museum of London is a perfect fun family venue.

Until 19 April The Clash: London calling Go behind the scenes on the making of The Clash's groundbreaking London Calling - an album that rocked the music scene, serving as an anthem for London, Londoners and music lovers globally. Free drop-in.

Museum of London Docklands www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands Find out more about London's history, through displays covering events such as the Great Plague, Londoners' jobs and occupations, and Roman life. On Sundays, museum hosts help visitors explore the galleries through fun, hands-on activities at 11am and 2pm.

21 & 22 March Adventures at the docks: Family quest Are you and your family up for a challenge? Travel around the museum solving puzzles as you go, gather the stories of incredible characters and earn special cards to complete the quest. You can also take part in workshops with games and mini challenges too in this exciting weekend at the museum. You might even discover a mythical beast! Ages 5+, 11am-4pm, free drop-in.

National Army Museum Chelsea SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk The National Army Museum is a leading authority on the British Army and its impact on society past and present.

Through its collections the museum preserves and shares stories of ordinary people with extraordinary responsibilities; exploring the role of the army and its relevance today. Free children's trails cover a wide range of topics and suit a variety of age groups.

FREE. Play Base Daily. Whether your child wants to take on the soft play assault course, climb aboard a truck or prepare scoff in the cookhouse, Play Base lets every child shine. Ages 0-8, £4.50 per child for an hour-long session.

National Gallery WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun Family Sundays Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm.

Art detectives tour Follow in the art

The Horniman Museum PLAY by Snakebox at Streatham Space Project

Forest Hill SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Until 25 October Permian monsters:

52 Families South West • March/April 2020

Titanophoneus Animatronic Permian Monsters Courtesy Gondwana Studios

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Investigate Photo: The Trustees of the Natural History Museum detectives' footsteps as they search for clues and meaning to some of the National Gallery's most mysterious paintings. Family ticket £10

Natural History Museum SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Get back to nature Visit the museum’s very own outdoor gallery - the Wildlife Garden. It's home to thousands of British flora and fauna. Free, no booking required. 10am-3.30pm Investigate for families Get a feel for how scientists work by having a go yourself. Come and explore hundreds of real nature specimens that form the evidence Museum scientists use in their daily work. 7+. Mo-Fri 4-5.15pm and Sat and Sun all day until 5pm. FREE, drop-in, no booking required.

Until 31 May 20 Wildlife Photographer of the year Explore the world's best nature photography, exhibited on 100 stunning lightbox displays. Simply stunning.

Dino snores for kids Ever wondered what goes on at the Natural History Museum at night? 7pm till morning, torchlit trails through the museum, live animal shows and more. For ages 7-11.

March & April dates are sold out, book now for 22 May and 6 and 19 June.

21 March & 10 May Dawnosaurs Early morning fun, free from SEN the hustle and bustle of the general public, learning for Event families with children on the autistic spectrum. FREE. Roarsome fun at home Great ideas on the museum’s website to do at home: arts and craft. How to press flowers, make a bird feeder, how to spot insects in the dark etc

Royal Opera House www.roh.org.uk Until July Family Sundays Discover everything you didn't know about the Royal Opera House in these fun-packed Sundays, full of creative activities - ideal for all the family. Tickets from £10.

16 March, 20 April, 4 and 11 May Opera dots Discover the world of opera through fun participatory 45 minute workshops for children and adults, full of singing, music and stories. Tickets £10.

9 and 30 March, 27 April Ballet dots Explore the repertory of the Royal Ballet with your babies and children. The 45 minute creative movement and dance workshops are accompanied by live piano music. Tickets £10.

20 March, 17 April, 1 and 15 May Dance with the Royal Ballet Whether you're an aspiring dancer or taking your first

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Wild at Unicorn theatre

Gulliver’s Travels at The Unicorn Theatre

ballet steps, try out with workshops led by a member of The Royal Ballet team.

Ages 14+, 2.15-3.30pm, £10.

Sir John Soane's Museum 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields WC2A 3PB www.soane.org Tucked away in Lincoln's Inn Fields at the heart of London, this magical, mysterious museum encourages young visitors to explore Soane's treasures and develop new skills with specialist guidance. FREE drop-in activities run on the third Saturday of every month, with activities for all ages and families can take part together from 1.30-4.40pm.

for visitors to explore: hands-on workshops for 3-6yrs, 30 minute science shows, make your own stethoscope 6yrs and much more! FREE Until 28 June Treat your teddy Have a go at becoming a Teddy bear doctor in this workshop for children under six.

Daily Typhoon Force Experience the power of the RAF’s newest frontline Typhoon jet in this action-packed flight simulator. From 4+ Daily Pattern Pod A captivating, interactive multi-sensory area for children to identify the many types of pattern around us.

Southbank Centre

London Transport Museum

SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Until 17Jul Dragon Babies Bring your little ones to shake, rattle and gong.

Gamelan for ages 3-5. £5 Until 25 July Family gamelan taster sessions Bring your family and friends to play Javanese gamelan percussion orchestra. Artists as varied as Claude Debussy, Olivier Messiaen, Steve Reich and Björk have taken inspiration from gamelan music, and now you can learn to play this beautiful instrument. Each workshop lasts for two hours. £10 4 & 5 April Comedy club for kids Age 7+ 15-19 April BIG UP! A perfect show for little people who want to be big, and big people who just might have forgotten how to play.

16 & 17 April Into the clouds Highly visual experience for babies and young audiences with sensory needs.

14 April Peppa pig: my first concert 7-11 April Tiddler and other terrific tales Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's terrific tales retold with music and puppetry. Age 7+

www.ltmuseum.co.uk 4-19 April Billy Brown of London town Explore the Museum this Easter as you hunt for Billy Brown! Pick up a hunt card at the Family Desk to help you track him down and decipher the clues to find out who he is and what his job is.

V&A Museum Every Saturday until 28th March Popup Performance Take part in exciting and unique performance events suitable for all ages. 11am, 1pm & 3pm. FREE

National Maritime Museum Queen's House, Royal Observatory, Greenwich SE10 www.rmg.co.uk Housed in historic buildings forming part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site, the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the 17th-century Queen's House and Cutty Sark work to illustrate the importance of the sea, ships, time and the stars and their relationship with people. On Saturdays and Sundays free performances and workshops entertain family visitors, while on Tuesdays preschoolers can make music and play with parents and carers.

AHOY! Drop into NMM's brilliant children's gallery for a boatload of fun and adventure. Stoke the boiler of a continued on p.54

Science Museum www.sciencemuseum.org.uk 17 April, 2 May, 5 June Astronights Ticketed overnight event for 7-11 year olds, featuring exciting hands-on workshops, science shows, and a sleepover at the Science Museum among the amazing exhibits – all World’s followed by a tasty largest breakfast. 6.45pm medicine until 10am. £60pp galleries Medicine season The Wellcome Galleries has transformed the first floor of the Science Museum with five vast and visually stunning new medical galleries

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Living-Medicine, Chelsea Physics Garden

steamship, land a fish and work in the interactive boatyard. Polar exploration, pirates and a host of other maritime themes are brought to life in this playful and immersive gallery, which also has a buggy park and easy access to all the facilities you need to have a stress-free visit. Ages 0-7, free and open daily The Great Explorer is an interactive game for families. Borrow a tablet device and set sail across The Great Map to explore distant lands and discover treasures from all around the world. Where will you visit and what will you find? Take a photo and share your adventure. 11am-4pm, free.

Saturdays Character encounters Join an exciting performance and journey bringing maritime history to life.

12noon, 1, 2 and 3pm.

The Design Museum W8 6AG www.designmuseum.org 29 March Winter sunday create and make puppetry 5-11 Free, drop in 29 March Create your own framed poster Use graphic design techniques.

8-11.

see FREE weekend and Easter activities pages 31-36

IDEAS FOR THE WEEKEND/EASTER

Easter at Fulham Palace ©Giselle Brosnahan

Cutty Sark Greenwich SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark The world famous 19th century tea clipper offers visitors four levels to explore. Take in the views from the main deck and steer at the ship's wheel, meet the crew who worked on board and see how tea was loaded on board through interactive displays, props, information boards and animations.

Family friendly events run at weekends and during school holidays. From £24 families.

Kew Gardens TW9 3AB www.kew.org Every Sunday Story time Fun-filled family session of stories about the extraordinary Marianne North. 12pm, 1pm and 2pm Included with entry to the Gardens

Morden Hall Park www.nationaltrust.org.uk 10-13 April Cadbury Easter Hunt Take the Easter bunny's challenge!

A favourite event where you'll complete a trail of outdoor activities to earn your Cadbury chocolate treat. 10am-4pm 16 & 17 April The Great Big Tree Climb Join instructors from the Great Big Tree Climbing Company for an exciting tree top adventure, 1-hour time slots available 10am-4.45pm. £25 per hour.

Booking essential.

Learn pottery Battersea Arts Centre www.bac.org.uk Family Saturdays On the final Saturday of every month families take over Battersea Arts Centre for a day of fun, food and FREE activities inc face painting, storytelling, clothes swap, The Bee’s Knees magical indoor space for under 5s and workshops. £3 Familyfriendly café.

Wildlife photographer of the Year

www.claphampottery.co.uk Second Saturday of the month 1.30-3.00pm These workshops take place in a relaxed environment where the whole family can have fun together and make their own work. £12.50 per person.

Science Museum Your weekends taken care of! There is so much to do here we can’t list everything. We love the interactive Wonderlab with explosive demonstrations and immersive experiences, The Garden an interactive space for 3-6yrs, Engineer your future with problem solving and big thinking workshops, the amazing multi sensory Pattern pod for under 8 and experience the thrill of flying with the Red Arrows in the Fly Zone FREE but many are ticketed.

Rug-Rhymes at Southbank

Tate Modern

London Wetland Centre

Family Activities Pick-up activities are a new way to get you talking and creating in the galleries together as a family.

Collect Cone, Sculpture Strip or the Time-traveller activity. For younger visitors, Collection Case invites a hands-on exploration connected to the Materials and Objects display and anyone is welcome to take a seat at a digital sketch pad and get drawing.

10am-6pm, FREE

Barnes www.wwt.org.uk An urban oasis for wildlife and people, close to central London. Stroll among the lakes, ponds and gardens. The café is perfect for relaxing, and children will love the play areas. Regular events include: meet the otters, bird feeding with a warden, talks, have a go at being a Wildlife presenter, and wetland explorers and more. Family activities at weekends Make a seed bomb to help pollinators in your garden, test your survival skills at a den building session, family ticket £32

Family fun swim with slides Check your local leisure centre for family sessions with waves, slides, floats and toys. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Bright Emporium Clapham www.thebrightemporium.com Every weekend delve into their books and share their imaginative worlds and characters through creative workshops.

Messy Play Let the little ones get stuck in to some messy play that doesn't wreck your home! 9.15-10am. 1-3yrs; 10.15am-11am Ages 3-5. £5 per child.

Storytime Sunday Enjoy a reading from your favourite stories, then settle in for some crafting based on the book.

10.30-12pm, from £10.

Fulham Palace SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org Natural play area Logs and wooden objects saved from onsite tree work have been built into a new play area, sparking creativity in order to encourage a lifelong love of nature for the children who use it. Open daily from dawn to dusk, suitable for all ages, entry FREE. Every Saturday Archaeologists' club (YAC): Fish traps The Young Archaeologists' Club (YAC for short) is for 8 and 16! 10.30-12.30 £45 for the term, booking essential.

22 March Family fun day: from bud to blossom Spring has arrived, celebrate new life.

4 April Little green fingers Gardening workshops, morning or afternoon sessions. £10.50 per child 10-13 April Easter trail Hunt around the house and garden this spring to solve our Easter trail! FREE 12 April Springtime at the Palace Help us bring spring to the Palace at our Easter Sunday family activity day 11- 3pm

Brass rubbing St Martin-in-the-Fields Creative family fun with an historical twist Brass rubbing in London and throughout the UK was a fashionable Victorian pastime that continues to be popular today. From £4.50. 11.30m-5pm

Young Astronomers Workshop Greenwich Planetarium & Astronomy Centre Every Saturday and Sunday until 29th March Drop-in workshops facilitated by Observatory Explainers mixing demonstrations with make and do activities. Get hands-on in these short drop in family workshops themed around space science and exploration, from the most recent discoveries about the Solar System to our latest understanding of the wider universe.

With a team of Observatory Explainers include those who are studying astronomy at degree or postgraduate level and can answer your burning space questions such as: how big is the Universe and why is Pluto not a planet anymore? 11am-2.30pm, ages 7+

Aqua Run Tooting Leisure Centre, SW17 0NE Every Monday and Thursday throughout the school holidays & on Sundays. Inflatable fun in the pool! Call 020 8333 7555 to book or pay on the day, space permitting. 3.30-4.30pm For ages 8-15. £6

BABIES & TODDLERS Southbank Centre SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Until 17 Jul Gong Babies Join this relaxing music workshop aimed at new parents, carers and non-crawling babies. £5.

• Families London South West is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. • The contents of Families London South West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London South West. • Designed and Printed by Ridgeway Press, Wilts. • Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families SW, our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. • Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources.

The Curious Tale of The Stolen Pets, Mitcham VR Festival Photo: Fast Travel Games Until 10 Jul Rug Rhymes Find your spot on the poem rug for a short session of nursery rhymes and poems for under5s. FREE

National Gallery WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun Family sundays Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm.

Magic Carpet Storytelling For children aged 2-5. Sundays 10.3011am and 11.30am–12pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day.

Bring your own baby comedy byobcomedy.com A funny, friendly afternoon of top comedy and you get to bring your own baby! They provide toys, baby changing, buggy parking, bottle warmers and more, so that baby is happy

V&A Pop up Performance © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

The Jungle Book at the new Turbine Theatre, Battersea Power Station Easter holidays

30 March Time and Leisure Studio,Wimbledon,SW19 1QG Doors open 11.15 , show starts 12pm £13.20 (including booking fee) 1st April Clapham Picturehouse 76 Venn St, SW4 0AT £11 in advance.

Doors open 10.30am for 11am start.

Singing Mamas Choir www.singingmamaschoir.com southlondonsingingmamas@gmail.com Tuesdays: St Leonards, Streatham, 1011.30am . Fresh Ground, Clapham/Battersea, 1-2.30pm A fun weekly dose of heart-warming harmony for women of all ages. No experience necessary, this is for all ages and abilities- bring your little ones or come just as you are. Recharge, nourish & connect with great harmony songs, tea and cake!

Bursary places available for PND sufferers/ DV survivors.

The Graveney and Meadow pub 40 Mitcham Road SW17 9NA graveneyandmeadow.com Fridays Rhythm n’ Babies Music classes for babies and their carers with instruments. 9.30am, £5.

Wednesdays Makers: Toddler Art Session Fun relaxed art sessions for ages two and up. On offer each week is a set of creative activities, gently introducing art skills including markmaking, drawing, collage, painting, cutting with scissors and more

New Wimbledon Theatre www.atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre/ 30 March BYOBaby Comedy.

Crib Notes cribnotes.co.uk Crib Notes is a friendly, non-auditioned choir for parents or carers of young children, based in South London.

Babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers are welcome, and you get to do something for yourself (no nursery rhymes!).

Formerly the highly successful Pram Chorus, led by Ruth Routledge, and now run by local musicians Jake Alexander and Eleanor Rastall, and local mum Amandine Olivier.

Streatham Mondays 10.30-11.30am @The Well Centre, 16 Wellfield Road, SW16 2BP Brixton Wednesdays 10-11am @Effraspace, 21 Effra Parade, SW2 1PX Balham Fridays 10.15-11.15am @venue TBC drop in £10.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Hever Castle & gardens Hever, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NGm www.hevercastle.co.uk/whats-on Explore the historic childhood home of Anne Boleyn - spring offers a great chance to explore the stunning gardens and enjoy dazzling daffodil displays.

Work up an appetite with a wander

around the stunning 125 acre grounds and let your little ones run off some energy in the Tudor Towers adventure playground or the Acorn Dell natural play area. Open 10.30am, castle and gardens admission £18.80 adults, children £10.70, family of four £50.10.

21+22 March Mother’s day Children can take part in a free workshop to make a keyring, plus one free face paint per paying child. Book first and treat mother to afternoon tea in the Pavilion Restaurant, complete with a glass of fizz.

2-19 April Hop into Easter Fun Hunt for colourful carrots and the Hever bunny in a fun free Easter trail, take part in an Easter egg hunt in the grounds, and create an egg shaped tree decoration. Each child will receive a chocolate for completing the trail and a mini chocolate egg for each Easter egg they find.

Kent life heritage farm park Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3AU, 01622 763936, www.kentlife.org.uk Kent Life provides plenty of fun activities for children of all ages. Meet farm animals large and small, take a tractor or land trail ride, run wild in the outdoor play area, burn off steam on pedal tractors, leap on the bouncy castle or take a ride on adorable donkeys.

14+15 March Bugs and grubs weekend Get up close and personal with nature with the Kent Life bug hunter, visit critter corner or make a mini-beast house to take home. Special guest the Gruffalo will be appearing at intervals throughout the day. 10am-5pm, family admission £33.95.

2-15 April Spring into Easter Say hello to new faces, help with bottle feeding of lambs and goat kids and meet Easter chicks and piglets! From Friday 10 to Monday 13 April, the Easter Bunny will be popping up with some yummy treats! 10am-5pm, family admission £33.95.

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