Families London SW Mar-April 2019

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Your guide to Easter Over 150 local events Take your

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IN THIS ISSUE

Zero waste shopping, the rise of self harming, prep schools, parties, local city farms, days out, child friendly museums, theatre, Easter activities and much more Issue 284/285 March/April 2019

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contents

Do something fun this Easter. Check out our Easter and What’s On listings for activities, days out, courses and fun things to do indoor and outdoors Photo: Go Ape

• 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.

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Local news

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Your local Clubs & Classes news

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Ways to live sustainably

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Favourite places to enjoy the Great Outdoors this Easter

EDUCATION FEATURE • What’s wrong with League tables?

• Why choose a school in Bath • Falcons School for Girls music scholarship programme • News from our local Prep schools • School Open days

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The rise of self harming

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EASTER HOLIDAYS From sport to art, days out, music, drama and much more

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EDITOR’S PICK Our editor chooses 5 things to do this spring

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

• Designed and Printed by Ridgeway Press, Wilts.

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

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

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

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March/April 2019 Issue 284/285

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Cutting the cost of childcare

24-29

BABY FEATURE • When should your baby start being active?

• Very useful local baby services

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Helping parents keep their children through fostering

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PARTIES • Top tips for a budget party • Top party ideas from our local party specialists and planners

48-54 WHAT’S ON • Diary dates • Mother’s day treats • Theatre • Museums and galleries

Find us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram FamiliesSWLon

Advertise in our next issue. Contact us on 020 8696 9680

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News Polka Theatre closed for renovation

Congratulations to children from Priory CofE School in Wimbledon who have been judges of the Blue Peter Book Awards 2019. Although adult judges chose the shortlist, the winners will be decided by children from 12 schools around the country. The winner will be announced on Blue Peter on 7th March on World Book Day.

Further to a £1.2 million award from Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund, our beloved Polka theatre is closed until the summer of 2020 to allow much needed rebuilding and refurbishing–excellent news to celebrate its 40th birthday year and make ready for the next 40 years. The development includes a new Adventure Theatre specially designed for young children up to age 5, a new

rehearsal and development studio, a creative learning studio designed with particular reference to children with sensory needs, as well as improved access facilities.

Polka is one of the few theatres in the UK dedicated exclusively to children. A further £1 million approx is still needed to help complete this £7.5 million project. https://polkatheatre.com

Like to get involved with Families magazine?

Could you help us by distributing a batch of magazines in your school? Would you like to review shows and events and share your reviews?

If so, why not join our team of ‘roving mums’!

We want to involve you in the production of the magazine: share your passions, your favourite eateries and in exchange you will get a chance to win prizes, tickets to shows and to review products to keep. There will be a limited number of mums in the team. Email editor@familiesSW.co.uk or call 020 8696 9680.

About WIFI and Smart Meters In our Jan/Feb issue we mentioned a piece published in ‘The Lancet’ about the potential health risks to humans associated with prolonged exposure to WIFI (mobile phones, computer routers, masts, baby monitors etc). If you haven’t read it yet, do, it is very important.

One reader wanted his viewpoint expressed about smart meters (not about the potential risks of WIFI use). At Families we like our readers to make up their own minds, so please read the Lancet report here http://bit.ly/Lancetarticle, or find out more about smart meters here http://stopsmartmeters.org.uk/ and here’s what our reader has to say: “New gas and electricity smart meters are being offered to every home across Great Britain at no extra cost. With an end to estimated bills and a portable in-

home display showing spending on energy in pounds and pence, smart meters equip families with the tools necessary to eliminate energy waste at home and reduce bills. By reducing energy use, we can cut the amount of carbon we produce as a country and help to tackle climate change. To reassure the public that smart meters are safe, Public Health England has conducted and published extensive peer-reviewed research. This research has found that while smart meters do use radio waves, they do so at a typical rate of a millionth of the minimum international guidelines and significantly lower than existing devices such as mobile telephones or WI-FI.” To learn more about the benefits of smart meters and protections in place, visit www.smartenergygb.org

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Enjoy British Science Week Families can enjoy a wonderful time together during British Science Week 2019 which will take place from 8 to 17 March. Science Week is a celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths with fascinating, entertaining and engaging activities for all ages taking place across the UK. You

can also download a series of FREE activity packs at www.britishscienceweek.org filled with resources and ideas to try out at home or school, without the need for a science background or expensive equipment.

To find an event close to you, visit www.sciencelive.net familiesonline.co.uk

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Knightsbridge School pupils become kindness detectives In February pupils at Knightsbridge School took on the roles of kindness detectives to raise awareness for Children’s Mental Health Week. Each child in the school was given the name of someone in their class and embarked on a secret mission to do something kind for that person during the course of the week.

Acts of kindness included helping their classmates tidy their lockers and carry their bags as well as sharing pencils and helping each other in class.

The younger pupils in the school were also encouraged to play a

very thoughtful game of bingo.

Much like the much-loved game, the children were given a sheet full of things to tick off, only instead of a list of numbers, the page was filled with a variety of kind deeds.

These included sitting with someone who looked lonely, donating something they no longer needed to charity and holding the door open for someone.

“We wanted to let them know that sometimes it is OK not to be OK.” www.knightsbridgeschool.com

Powerleague introduces new flagship site at Nine Elms The original provider of small-sided football in the UK, Powerleague, is proud to showcase a brand new club in Nine Elms, Battersea. The new Club features five 5-a-side pitches, one 7-a-side pitch and wearable tech for players which tracks game performance and stats. The club features exciting digital advances including on-pitch cameras to replay and record game triumphs. Hit a red button on the

side of the pitch and upload goals to watch them back on the Powerleague website or upload to social media channels.

Powerleague Nine Elms caters for all your football and league requirements, as well as corporate events and children’s parties with pitches for hire and additional games including Zorb Football, Nerf Parties and more. www.powerleague.co.uk

Two books we love this month:

Commission a beautiful artist portrait Mary-Maye Lorriman works to create beautiful bespoke portraits.

She paints beloved family pets, children, adults, and even deceased loved ones. Commissioned all through the year for special occasions and anniversaries, her work creates lasting memories.

Here’s the reaction of one recent

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customer: "Such a fun surprise present for my husband, MaryMaye has captured our wonderful dog perfectly and we are both over the moon with it."

Contact Mary-May on 07825 511850, marymayelorriman@gmail.com @marymayelorriman

The Montessori Toddler by Montessori teacher and parent Simone Davies (Workman, £14.99, 10 April) suggests how to bring the values of a Montessori classroom into your own home. Designed to be a practical guide on how to raise self-sufficient, curious and independent toddlers, the book also aims to help parents become more easy going and attentive.

WHY Do I Have To Sleep? by best-selling author Signe Rhode (Make Your Mark Global, £11.98) tells the story of a child who doesn’t want to go to bed but slowly opens up to wanting to sleep while his mother shares with him the importance of a good night’s rest. This book is truly one of its kind as it uses mindfulness and meditation tips to soothe the child to sleep.

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Sustainable M

By Ara Yoo, a local mother of two

Choose your future "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, Nothing is going to get better. It's not."

— Dr. Seuss, from The Lorax

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ustainability is a big word, it’s only when we break it down that it can become less daunting. Searching for perfection can sometimes become the enemy of good, you can delay procrastination and get your sustainable you started today. We all lead busy lives and as a working mum of two girls myself, I have incorporated one new, sustainable, habit, at a time. An overview of some practical steps you can take is set out below.

1. Power brings responsibility Electricity generation is the principle source of greenhouse gas emissions: 25%.

• Switch to energy saving light bulbs as these last 10 times longer.

• Switch lights off and turn off switches at plug sockets too.

• Do less laundry, do big loads,

lower the water temperature and use your tumbler dryer a little less.

• Refrigerants from fridges and air conditioners are the biggest culprits in warming the atmosphere, much more than CO2. When buying new appliances, buy energy efficient ones. Try to fix if broken and recycle wherever possible.

• Is your electricity bill green?

Switch to www.bulb.co.uk • We insulated our house. Cavity wall insulation can save you up to £250 a year of heating bills.

2. Food for thought The next major source of emissions is agriculture at 24%. Some research shows that reducing meat consumption is by far the most effective way to reduce global warming.

• Eat less meat, especially red meat.

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It takes 15,415 litres of water to produce 1kg of beef.

• Swap recipes that have lentils, chickpeas, beans etc. Try your classic recipes without the meat.

We now love our chicken-free fajitas!

• When food shopping, bring your own bags, where possible buy local produce and in bulk.

• Food author Micheal Pollan once summarised it in 7 words: “Eat food, not too much, mostly plants”.

Eat food that your grandmother would recognise, stop before you are full and be generous with fibre.

3. Does it spark joy?

And in third place, manufacturing is 21% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

• First and most important rule, buy less.

• Limit presents to your children and consider eco ones such as gardening kits, chalks to decorate pathways, a mud kitchen, even a worm farm!

The reality is that the vast majority

of personal hygiene and house cleaning products tend to utilise single use plastic.

• You can clean your house basically with vinegar. This is the recipe I use for all-purpose cleaning: one part white vinegar, one part water, lemon rind and rosemary sprigs into a spray bottle (or use essential oils). For kitchen counters and appliances, add 4 tablespoons of baking soda to a litre of warm water. Pour on clean sponge to wipe.

• You should consider trialling soap bar shampoos (wild-sage.co.uk and uk.lush.com). We now use water and apple cider vinegar (four parts and one part respectively) in spray bottles as conditioner. Apple cider vinegar is one of the best natural antidotes for nits.

• Ladies, check out menstrual cups.

It takes getting used to but you should find them safer, cheaper and so much more environmentally friendly than their traditional equivalent. Organicup is highly recommended but you can find many brands in health stores, Boots and online.

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Try also: Hetu Vegan Zero Waste Store They sell whole foods in bulk and sustainable reusable items without unnecessary packaging. They say no to animal products, no to palm oil, no to exploitation, no to single use and no to over consumption.

201 St Johns Hill, Battersea.

Experience the zero waste shopping revolution!

e Me

4. To travel is to live Transport makes 14% of greenhouse gas emissions.

• Whenever possible, use public transport.

• Cycle by using bike2work scheme and newly installed bike paths.

• Car pooling with neighbours when you take children to school or parties is also great to socialise and avoid parking or use a car club.

• Consider taking one less international flight this year.

We love BYO Zero waste shop in Tooting market. Remember to bring your own or purchase bottles, jars, bags etc...to refill with whole foods, household detergents and toiletries—by weight. Their aim is to reduce Packaging and Food Waste in our Homes and Community.

5. Caring is Sharing Connect and engage with your community and neighbours.

• Create a Facebook group for your local area: encourage each other to borrow or lend to each other or repair. Lend your lawnmower against a helping hand with some DYI? • Volunteer at a local clean up.

• Become a board member of a local school and support their sustainability steps.

I’d love to hear about the steps you are taking to become a more sustainable you! Tweet me at @Ara_Yoo_Me familiesonline.co.uk

With a network of stores across the world, The Source Bulk Foods offers over 500 quality wholefoods, dried fruits, oils and cooking liquids, cereals, snacks and household goods for all of the family, with a focus on organic, vegan, gluten-free and paleo-friendly products. 99 St John's Rd, Battersea.

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Education Feature

What’s wrong with League tables?

By Mrs Katharine Woodcock, Headmistress Sydenham High School Discouraging children from comparing their achievements with those of their peers is one of the biggest challenges parents and teachers face. We work hard to ensure that all pupils celebrate their success in the context of identifying their own potential. It is not necessarily a good thing for them constantly to measure themselves, or be measured, against the performance of others.

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very year, I wince when league tables come out, calculating schools’ results and ranking them. Is this publicity helpful, and more to the point is it healthy? What concerns me most about league tables is that they do not tell the whole story about the school or the pupils behind the statistics published. Equally, league tables can be confusing and even misleading, as they do not all use the same measure of comparison.

As a result, parents may make unfair assumptions about an institution, without considering the wider context, or indeed the breadth and spread of results.

tables, but they are no less worthy, no less impressive than those institutions that do.

Furthermore, league tables do not predict the League tables do not reflect the starting point future path of any child and how successful of any given pupil they will be, given the strong grounding It is innate in any good teacher to want to in terms of academic and personal bring the very best out in a child.

Natasha Devon MBE development a school may have Schools that are super selective, for rightly pointed out last provided. example, rejecting applicants who summer that results “don’t fail to hit the target academically in tell you anything about all Measuring the success of selection tests at the tender age of those little moments that pupils must transcend mere 10, should inevitably be high up in leave an indelible mark on letters and numbers the league tables. What these pupils intellectually and GCSE and A Level results alone tables do not measure, however, is emotionally. They simply should not define the worth of a the progress made, the wider can’t quantify what has pupil, or indeed a school. What distance travelled and the valuebeen ‘learned’.” matters is that a school holistically added aspect of those pupils who are enables all its pupils to do their very perhaps late developers. Schools that have best, grow into the person they want to be, in succeeded in helping such pupils fulfil their an environment where they can be true to potential beyond expectation, may not themselves, and those around them. All necessarily make the top places in any league familiesonline.co.uk

schools are ‘academic’, regardless of how they rank in league tables. The process of education is not a precise science. We should not be defined by letters and numbers; what matters is how a school has helped to shape and prepare an individual for their next steps, for their future.

Mental health and wellbeing are key priorities for us all today, when, according to a recent survey conducted by the charity Action for Children, one in three young people suffer from mental health troubles. Theresa May has announced new plans to alleviate this problem and the teaching of resilience is to become part of the national curriculum. We have to consider whether by publicly comparing every cohort’s results with those of another, we are perpetuating a culture that is damaging the wellbeing of our children?

We hope to join a number of other schools in not submitting our results to the national press.

We no longer want to feed the frenzy of results comparison and participate in what Natasha Devon calls the media’s seasonal ‘soap opera’ of results. I have been so immensely proud of the results my classes, and those of the schools I have worked in, have achieved. “Success means doing the best we what we have”—wise words from Zig Ziglar. So let us celebrate what we have, for it is the best our pupils can give us. Let us help our young people to identify and nurture their talents and abilities, feel that all-important sense of worth, take pride in who they are, and rightly applaud their achievements. www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net March/April 2019 • Families South West 9

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Education Feature

Strike a chord with the Falcons School for Girls

Falcons School for Girls, situated in the leafy conservation area of Woodborough Road, Putney, has launched its music scholarship programme, offering unrivalled opportunities for girls across the local area with a passion for music. art of the prestigious Alpha Plus Group, the school has introduced the initiative to allow talented young musicians in Year 3, both current and noncurrent pupils who otherwise may not have the opportunity, to benefit from a first-class education while receiving the finest musical tuition.

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The music scholars will begin their study in the academic year starting September 2019, with the scholarship lasting throughout the pupil’s time at the school. Available to string or

Excellent 11+ results for Sinclair House school Congratulations to Sinclair House School, which has continued to deliver its 100% pass rate at 11+.

SHS's broad and engaging curriculum focuses predominantly on crosscurricular and in-depth learning from Reception and ensures the children receive exam paper practice during their preparation year, allowing pupils to develop a strong and confident skill set whilst also nurturing passions and curiosities that enable them to shine at interview stages. www.sinclairhouseschool.com

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woodwind players working towards or beyond grade 3 standard, the Falcons Music Scholarships provide a much-coveted prospect. Singers are also encouraged to apply, but they must be willing to take up a second instrument offered by the school.

In line with the launch of the scholarship programme, the school also marks the opening of its new music technology suite, the ‘Creation Station’. Pupils are welcome to enjoy the specialist facilities to maintain good progress on their instrument and allow their creative talents to flow.

Applications are now welcome from pupils currently in Year 3 and provided that satisfactory music standards are met, the chosen individual will be eligible for a percentage of their annual school fees to be covered.

In addition to its new scholarship initiative, the Falcons School for Girls offers a thriving academic scholarship programme for girls in Year 4 which lasts throughout their time at the school. The scholarship assessments take place at the end of the Spring term and are open to both internal and external candidates in Year 3.

For more information on Falcons School for Girls, or to register for the Open Day on 13th March, call Harriet Stokes, Head of Admissions on 020 8992 5189 or email admissions@falconsgirls.co.uk

Schools that ban mobile phones improve results Should children be allowed to take mobile phones to school? Opinion is divided. Some advocate a complete ban because of the potential for distraction, while others promote the use of phones as a teaching tool in the classroom.

Schools in England and Scotland have complete autonomy regarding their mobile phone policy, which has resulted in large differences in the timing of the introduction of bans.

Schools that ban pupils from carrying mobile phones show a sustained improvement in exam results, with the biggest advances coming from struggling students, according to research published by the London School of Economics.

The large-scale study found schools in London, Leicester, Birmingham and Manchester that banned mobiles enjoyed a boost in the proportion of pupils getting five good passes at GCSE, compared with schools that allowed pupils to keep their phones, even if switched off. www.lse.ac.uk

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Southfields call 020 8870 8300 email southfields@numberworks.com

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

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Education Feature

The Ursuline Prep School T he Ursuline Preparatory School, Wimbledon, is a Roman Catholic preparatory school for girls and boys aged 3-4 and girls aged 4-11 years, with a strong and very clear ethos characterised by the teachings of the Catholic church and in particular, the lifelong commitment of its foundress, St. Angela Merici.

The Ursuline focus is on the spirit of ‘Serviam’ educating the children to show care and concern for others and strive to achieve their personal best, looking to the future with confidence, keen to make a difference in the world.

“Our commitment is to ensure that every girl and boy will be loved, cared for and believed in to create the fertile soil within which all children can flourish. Equal value is placed on the education of the heart, the mind and the soul, in the

certain knowledge that only through the equal development of all three can a child truly become the person they are born to be; the best that they can be. Our aim is to inspire every child to continue their educational journey with a strong foundation and a desire to go out into our rapidly changing world and make a positive difference. We remind our children that we are far stronger together than apart.

Our School Song finishes with the words “My voice is one, loving and strong, but with you I In March the ursuline become a song.

Preparatory School is picking up Insieme, the eco baton and taking on the Insieme, ursuline Zero Waste challenge.

Together.””

They are calling on their pupils, families and the community at large to take on the #ursulineZeroWaste challenge.

Will you have a go? www.ursulineprep.org

Kensington Prep School is Prep School of the Year!

Congratulations to Kensington Prep School in Fulham which has been named ‘Independent Prep School of the Year’.

Ground-breaking facilities have been created by transforming classrooms into powerful new learning spaces. There are spacious classroom breakout spaces, an immersive high-tech Explore Floor with multi-screens and moveable furniture, a multi-media recording studio and an eco-greenhouse. The school's innovative 'Creating Spaces for Growing Minds' programme particularly impressed the Independent School Parent Magazine judges making the award.

Kensington Prep School encourages independence and questioning thinking and the new facilities are designed to promote critical thinking, curiosity and collaborative learning—essential ingredients to help equip young pupils for success in our fast-changing world. www.kensingtonprep.gdst.net

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School Open Days MAR/APR 2019 SW1 Eaton House Belgravia Pre-Prep 3-8 Boys Open Evening 13/3 7-9pm 020 3917 5050 www.eatonhouseschools.com

SW3 The Hampshire School Co-ed 313yrs 21/3 9-11.15 020 7352 7077. www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk

Hill House 4-13 Co-Ed. Tours of school available every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday during term time at 8.30am, no appointment necessary 020 7584 1331 www.hillhouseschool.co.uk

SW4 Eaton House The Manor schools (Nursery, Girls’ School, Pre-Prep and Prep schools) regular Open Mornings (9-10.30am) on 6 and 20 March, bookable via the website at www.eatonhouseschools.com jmcenhill@eatonhouseschools.com or on 0203 917 5050.

SW6 Fulham Prep School 4-13 Co-Ed Pre-Prep Open Mornings 26/3 and 27/6 at 9.15am, 10.15am and 11.15am, call to book a place and time slot 020 7471 4217, Prep School tours by appointment only 020 7386 2444 www.fulhamprep.co.uk L’Ecole Des Petits 3-6 Co-Ed School visits are held on Thursday mornings 7/3, 14/3, 21/3, 28/3, 4/4 and 25/4 at 10am. Visits are by appointment only 0207 371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk Sinclair House School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Day 14/3 10am-11.30am 020 7736 9182, www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

SW7 Eaton House Belgravia (Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep schools) Open Evenings from 7-9pm on 13 March and 12 June, bookable via the website at www.eatonhouseschools.com. jmcenhill@eatonhouseschools.com or on 0203 917 5050 St Nicholas Prep School 3-11 CoEd Open Morning 2/5 9.30-11am 020 7225 1277 www.stnicholasprep.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

SW10 Redcliffe School 3-11 Co-Ed Open Day 10/5 at 9am, places must be reserved, plus tours Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout March-May 9.30am booking required 020 7352 9247 www.redcliffeschool.com

SW11 L’Ecole De Battersea 3-11 Co-Ed School visits are held on Friday mornings 8/3, 15/3, 22/3, 29/3 and 26/4 at 10am, by appointment only 0207 371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk Thames christian School 11-16 Co-Ed Open Morning 6/3 and 25 April 11am-1pm 020 7228 3933 www.thameschristianschool.org.uk Belleville Primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Tours of the school 21/3, 25/4 and 23/5 at 9.30am 020 7228 6727 www.bellevilleschool.org.uk

SW12 Hornsby House School 4-11 CoEd Open Morning 14/3 at 9am 020 8673 7573 www.hornsbyhouse.org.uk Ravenstone Primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Days 26/3, 23/4 and 23/5 at 9am, booking required 020 8673 0594 www.ravenstoneschool.co.uk/ The White House Preparatory School 4-13 Co-Ed Open Day 27/4 at 9.30-11.30am 020 8674 9514 www.whitehouseschool.com

SW15 Falcons School for Girls 3-11 Open Day 13/3, 9.15-11am. To book call 020 8992 5189 or email admissions@falconsgirls.co.uk Ibstock Place School 3-18 Co-Ed The Prep School Open Morning 1/5 at 9.30am, Senior School Open Evening 8/5 5-7pm booking required 020 8876 9991 / 020 8392 5803 www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk Putney High School 4-18 Girls Senior School Open Day 8/3 8.45-11am 020 8788 4886 www.putneyhigh.gdst.net Mosaic Jewish Primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 15/5 at 9.30am 07973 137002 www.mjps.org.uk

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The Alton School Community school 2/4, 7/5 Please book a tour by calling the school office on 020 8876 8482 www.altonschool.org.uk

SW16 Streatham and clapham High School 11-18 Girls Prep School Open Morning 15/3 9am-10.45am, Senior School Open Morning 22/3 9.15-11.30am, limited places, register online 020 8677 8400 www.schs.gdst.net

SW18 The Roche School 2.5-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 10/5 and 12/6 at 9.30-11.30am call to make an appointment on 020 8877 0823 www.therocheschool.co.uk St Michael’s cofE Primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 3/6, 17/6 and 1/7 at 9.30am by appointment only 020 8874 7786 www.stmichaels.wandsworth.sch.uk

SW19 The Study Prep School 4-11 Girls Open Morning 9/3 9.30am-12pm, plus Tours on Tuesday mornings throughout March 9.20-10.30am 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk Willington Independent Primary School 4-13 Boys Open Day 29/3 book online 020 8944 7020 www.willingtonschool.co.uk Wimbledon common Prep (also known as Squirrels) 4-7 Boys Open Morning 15/5 9.15-10.45am, bookings are open now 020 8946 1001 www.wimbledoncommonprep.co.uk

Wimbledon High School 11-18 Girls Senior School Open Mornings 19/3 and 26/3 at 8.50am, Junior School Open Mornings 12/3 and 25/6 020 8971 0900 www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net Kings college School 7-16 Boys, 16-18 Co-Ed Junior School (7+, 8+, 9+ and 10+ entry) Open Morning 21/6 9.30am-12pm, Sixth Form Open Evening 10/6 6-8.15pm, Lower School Open Evening 12/6 6-8.30pm 020 8255 5437 www.kcs.org.uk Albemarle Primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Day 15/3 at 11am 020 8788 3170 www.albemarle.wandsworth.sch.uk

SW20 The Norwegian School co-Ed 3-16 Open Day 11/5 12-2pm 020 8947 6617 www.norwegianschool.org.uk

W6 Ravenscourt Park Prep School W6 4-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 7/3, 9/5 and 11/6 9am, booking necessary 020 8846 9153 www.rpps.co.uk

SE26 Sydenham High School 4-18 Girls Prep School Open Morning 26/3 9.30-11am, Senior School Open Morning 19/3 9.30-11am 020 8557 7000 www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

Call to book your place now!

Please check the date has not been changed or cancelled before setting out.

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Education Feature Prep school feature

Why choose a school in Bath

By Mrs Sarah Patten, Head of Marketing & Communications, Kingswood School

B

eing a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is a popular destination with many visitors each year. There is something very special about what it can offer with its boutique shops, lively theatre and music scene, and great transport links to London. Bath is a small city and everything is within easy reach.

It has also been labelled as one of the safest cities in England, so parents can be happy knowing their children will be studying and living in a safe environment within beautiful parks and top universities.

Kingswood School is situated on a magnificent 200-acre site in Lansdown, Bath, and offers an inclusive boarding and day community for pupils between the ages of 9 months and 18 years. It is free of pretention and balances academic rigour, strength in the arts and sport, traditional values and outstanding pastoral care.

In addition to ‘The Garden’, our new nursery,

20 Families South West • March/April 2019

recent development includes outstanding facilities for children at the Prep School, including Bath’s first education-based STEAM and Innovation Centre, an unrivalled space that will equip children with the practical skills needed in an ever-changing workplace. The development is the UK’s largest timber shingle development, with custom-built joinery and age-specific play areas. Each room has been purpose-built to allow the children to flourish as they start their educational journey.

Kingswood promotes confidence and openmindedness along with creativity and a spirit of enquiry. Academic achievement takes place within the context of all-round personal development, and students excel on a personal level while also making a real difference to others.

Offering a home-away-from-home atmosphere and boarding from the age of 7,

support for working parents is very much part of the Kingswood ethos. Parents know their children are surrounded by friends and looked after by dedicated staff.

Academic results are consistently excellent.

In recent years, Kingswood has been ranked in the top 5% nationally for added-value, and regularly placed in the top 10 co-educational boarding or boarding/day schools. In the most recent ISI Inspection, Kingswood School was rated as "excellent" in all nine categories of the Inspection.

Kingswood School believes that every individual has talents to be discovered and nurtured. With an extensive co-curricular programme offering over 100 activities a week, pupils achieve astonishing successes as they constantly progress well beyond their natural potential. www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk

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OAK TREE DAY NURSERY 3 months to 5 years

8am to 6pm (Mon to Fri)

* Excellent facilities * Newly renovated premises * Stimulating, caring and homely environment * Qualified and experienced staff * Outside garden * Good OFSTED report * French * Music & movement * Fun Sports sessions * Early years foundation stage curriculum * Baby unit * Close to public transport * Sensory room

56 - 58 Blairderry Road, Streatham Hill, London SW2 4SB

020 8674 4844

www.oaktreedaynursery.com

Monday to Friday mornings and afternoon sessions now available

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‘Where childhood memories are made’

Fledglings Kindergarten

• Open 9.15am – 12.15pm term time only

KATHERINE LOW SETTLEMENT, 108 BATTERSEA HIGH STREET, LONDON SW11 3HP

FLEDGLINGS ON THE COMMON • Ofsted registered for 28 children

• Staff are qualified, committed and enthusiastic practitioners

• Exceptional outside environment able to support high quality learning opportunities which build on the children’s interests and capabilities • We provide a safe, secure nurturing environment to support your child’s individual needs • FNEP Funding accepted

• 2year old Early Education funding available for eligible children Please contact: John Barleycorn Fledglings on the Common 1 O’Clock Centre Chivalry Road SW11 1HT Tel No: 0207 7101 2034

Email: fledglingsonthecommon@cbcservices.org.uk

Ofsted rated: good

This setting is managed by Childcare & Business Consultancy Services (CBCS) a registered Charity (1083895) and Company Limited by Guarantee (4060959)

FLEDGLINGS EARLy yEAR & OUT OF SCHOOL CARE

‘Where childhood memories are made’

Affordable and high-quality childcare for children aged from 6 months to 5 years Out of School for 3 – 11 year olds

Our Early Years provision is open from 8.00am-6.00pm all year round and offers full day care, wrap around and sessional care.

• Qualified, experienced, dedicated and enthusiastic staff team • Safe, secure and nurturing indoor and outdoor learning

environments to support children’s interests and capabilities

• Flexible full time and part time packages

• Nutritious meals cooked freshly on the premises each day • Quality care and early years education

• Nursery education grant funding accepted for eligible children • Nursery vouchers accepted • Ofsted rating good

• Available for Party Hire

Contact: Sherrill Fitkin, 101A Derinton Road, London SW17 8HZ Telephone: 0208 672 7358 EXT1 Email: fledglingstooting@aol.co.uk This setting is managed by Childcare & Business Consultancy Services (CBCS) a registered Charity (1083895) and Company Limited by Guarantee (4060959)

A place to blossom and grow Children Ages 2 - 5 years Term time

Full and part time sessions offered

Places available for EECP funded children

Contact 0207 101 2033

fledglingskindergarten@cbcservices.org.uk visit our website at www.cbcservices.org.uk info@cbcservices.org.uk 0207 738 1958 Ofsted rated: good

This setting is managed by Childcare & Business Consultancy Services (CBCS) a registered Charity (1083895) and Company Limited by Guarantee (4060959)

FLEDGLINGS ON THE COMMON CHIVALRy ROAD, WANDSWORTH COMMON SW11 1HT

0207 101 2034

fledglingsonthecommon@cbcservices.org.uk

OPEN PLAy SESSIONS

Set in a safe environment with outside play Monday to Friday (term time)

1.15 pm – 3.00pm 1.15pm – 4.45pm 3.00pm – 4.45pm

under 5s under 5s under 8s

£3.00 per child £4.50 per child £3.00 per child

Monday to Friday (school holidays)

10.00am – 1.00 pm 1.00pm – 4.00pm 10.00am – 4.00 pm

£4.00 per child £4.00 per child £7.50 per child

Children must be accompanied by an adult over 16 years Also available for party hire on Saturdays and Sundays For further details call us on

0207 738 1958

This setting is managed by Childcare & Business Consultancy Services (CBCS) a registered Charity (1083895) and Company Limited by Guarantee (4060959)

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Cutting the cost of childcare

By Stephanie Rough

Childcare can cost parents up to 45% of their disposable income; after housing, it is the second largest household cost.

At the most expensive end, a full-time nursery place or child minder can set you back over £1,300 per month. When you factor in other costs such as commuting, it’s no surprise that many parents decide it is not financially viable for both parents to continue working.

However, with some foresight and planning, there are some ways to cut your childcare costs.

Help from family and friends Many parents turn to family members for at least some element of their childcare, if this not an option, building a network of local working parents offers the opportunity for sharing childcare responsibilities. Looking after each other’s children on days when you are not working can reduce costs especially during school holidays. If the arrangement is regular and more formal, you may want to consider public liability insurance in case a child has an accident in your home.

Nanny sharing Nannies are expensive which is why it’s common place now to share, particularly when/if you only have one child. Whilst it’s not as easy as a 50/50 split in relation to costs, as each family must be registered separately as an employer, there are definite savings on both employer National Insurance and the nanny’s salary.

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Au pairs Live-in au-pairs are now very popular providing families with childcare and help with general household duties. At £100 to £140 per week for 25 to 30 hours of work, au pairs are a good option for some families. company benefits Are there benefits available from your employer? Whilst company childcare vouchers are now closed to new entrants, those already in the scheme can continue to save up to £243 per month tax free to pay towards OFSTED registered childcare. In addition, companies may also offer discounts at certain childcare providers to help save you money or offer a back-up care provision.

Re-consider working hours Childcare is inherently inflexible but maybe your working arrangements don’t have to be!

So before searching for childcare see if you can make them more flexible. If you are considering working part-time, check whether local nursery providers offer discounts on less popular days (some do!) before confirming your work days.

Employees are entitled to make a formal application for flexible working hours annually and many employees arrange informal flexible working direct with their line manager. Can you work from home to help take the pressure off commuting and being late to collect your child? Are compressed hours or term time only working an option? Co-ordinate a plan with your partner to work out a weekly routine.

If one of you starts work early and the other later, this may reduce childcare costs.

Free hours and tax-free childcare Tax credits and a new style of childcare voucher (replacing the employer scheme) can create savings of up to £2,000 per child for parents meeting the eligibility criteria. In addition, children ages 3 and 4 in England are entitled to 15 hours free childcare for 38 weeks per year. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you may be entitled to 30 hours free. Whilst most nurseries do offer these free hours, you do need to check (especially for the 30 free hours) and calculate if any additional costs must be factored in. To check if you are eligible, go to www.childcarechoices.gov.uk

Stephanie Rough is Corporate Childcare Manager at Parental Choice, the essential one-stop shop for guidance on making the right decisions on your childcare needs. For further information, visit www.parentalchoice.co.uk

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PAINTING & DECORATING Interior / Exterior Experienced, Reliable, Clean Fully Guaranteed / Insured FREE ADVICE & QUOTE John:- James & Lamont

020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED...

Families South West Magazine is looking for distributors in the local area Do you have a car and a few spare hours a month?

Join our delivery team and earn some pocket money.

Email distribution@FamiliesSW.co.uk

THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Calling all baby Scientists!

Help us discover how babies learn!

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

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

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

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All our applicants are personally interviewed and their references checked

Nannies, Maternity Nurses, Housekeepers and Mother’s Helps Permanent and Temporary Residential, Daily, Full and Part-Time Evening Babysitting Register

Tel: 020 8947 4666 Facebook: Wimbledon Nannies Twitter: @wimbledonannies Instagram: wimbledon_nannies

26 Families South West • March/April 2019

info@wimbledonnannies.co.uk www.wimbledonnannies.com 184 Copse Hill, SW20 0SP

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When should your baby start being active?

By Tobias Rossberg of The Little Gym Wandsworth & Fulham The simple answer is as soon as possible— although mums, please don’t worry—you have already started the process before your little one was even born! Movement begins in the mother’s womb at 7 weeks and peaks between the 15th and 17th week and so all babies have had a fairly active start in life…

Baby’s neurons need stimuli to wire up nicely When a baby is born the brain is merely a jumble of neurons waiting to be “glued” together. Some neurons are already hardwired, such as those for breathing and beating of the heart. However, trillions remain unattached, waiting for some stimuli to “glue” them together. So for example when a baby perceives a visual stimulus, say mum’s face, a neuron connection is made from the retina to the visual cortex in the brain…. and so the process begins.

It has been found that the more stimulus a baby experiences—and at the earliest opportunity—the better the baby develops in the future. The brain develops at an astonishing rate and is 80% of the size of an adult by the age of two, highlighting the

importance of these very early years in their development.

So what kind of stimuli should baby receive?

Provide baby with a variety of sensory-motor experiences. Hanging cot toys or playing with a variety of toys on a play mat promotes reaching, which aids hand-eye coordination, improves the knowledge of their limbs and their overall sensory perception. Include a variety of basic gross-motor activities that involve postural control, coordination of movements and locomotion (sitting, reaching, crawling, creeping, body rolling) which all help with core strength. Also add a little music, as research shows that early music exposure aids visual-spatial, verbal and mathematical performance. As the child gets older and more mobile vary the experiences, colour, texture, sound, distance and smell. Do lots of things together, mum, dad and all the family, as this builds intimacy and helps develop strong bonds and trust. You will see your little one start to gain competence, which leads to a sense of mastery and in turn confidence which is a great foundation for life. Most importantly have fun with their learning.

The Little Gym offers a safe, sensory environment where their qualified teachers can assist parents in their early journey with lots of new ideas and challenges.

They offer a 7% discount for new members in their Birds (10-19 months) or Beasts (19-36) classes if you mention “Families SW Baby”.

Ring 020 8874 6567 for details.

Or maybe win your first six months of classes with the Families SW/TLG competition below.

WIN OVER £500 OF CLASSES! The Little Gym is offering one Families reader a chance to win six months free membership and classes only (10-36mths).

New members to TLG only (no existing). Competition closes 18th April at 5.30pm. To enter email ‘TLG competition’ to editor@familiesSW.co.uk On Facebook Like the TLG competition post and add your name. Winner will be the first to be drawn from all entries received.

Are the wheels on your bus a bit deflated?

Is winding the bobbin up winding YOU up? Then bring your baby and join others at Pram Chorus, the friendly parent’s choir.

Group singing is great for: Postnatal depression and anxiety, reducing stress, bonding with your baby, boosting energy levels and meeting other local parents, it will also support your baby’s cognitive, social and emotional development.

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No talent or experience needed.

No nursery rhymes.

Sessions in Streatham, Brixton, Beckenham, Balham and Tooting.

For more info please email ruth@pramchorus.com or visit www.pramchorus.com www.facebook.com/pramchorus @pramchorus Join Pram Chorus, the friendly parent’s choir to lift your spirits!

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Baby Feature

If you have a baby, here is a little round up of great things to do and places to go.

NcT Baby change A new baby can cause untold disruption to routine and life in general. This app helps you to locate changing facilities to use in your surrounding area and aims to take the stress away from being out of the house. The app relies on parents providing feedback on changing facilities after use and adding any new locations to the map. More info at www.nct.org.uk/parenting/nctbabychange-app

Italian villa with child friendly activities Villa Radicata is ideal for families: it sleeps up to 12 people, offers stunning lake and mountain views, a fenced pool and garden, stair gates for little escapers and plenty of toys and baby equipment (highchairs/cots/sterilizer).

Finding time for yourself as well as making sure quality time is spent with your children is a challenge for any parent—Villa Radicata has it covered with a variety of activities, true Italian hospitality, delicious food and

peace of mind, knowing your children are happy with their Italian ‘Nonna’. Choose from: yoga, fitness classes, cooking lessons, mini yoga, art, baby Italian, massage for mum and baby, excursions, shopping and horse riding.

Contact Rita on 0039 349 5018679 / 07785 571 292 www.mum-and-babyexperience.co.uk www.holiday-villa-intuscany.com

Would you like to earn extra money?

Ideal for mums with a baby at home, Capital Focus Groups are looking for people who enjoy giving their opinions and are willing to share their views on the products and services they use for many of the country’s largest companies and well-known products. It’s free, it’s fun and you will be financially rewarded as a thank you for taking part! Register now to earn extra money, by calling Liz on 07761128059 or e.dahlgren@btinternet.com

We love Mini Potters in Earlsfield!

Mini Potters is an independent Pottery Painting Studio in the heart of Earlsfield. It is open 7 days a week and perfect for creating your own baby prints, personalised gifts and clay impressions. There are also many creative opportunities available from evening classes for grown ups, Painting and Prosecco evenings and Fine Art classes. Call to book 020 8944 7466. www.minipotters.co.uk

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Join the Bump and Baby club With sunset yoga on the roof, dinners in funky venues and modern antenatal classes at its core, the Bump & Baby Club are revolutionising

the antenatal education market with a new wave of cool parenting classes helping to support and prepare thousands of couples with child birth, parenting, breastfeeding and baby first aid classes, delivered by a team of experts

who offer impartial guidance and knowledge based on the latest evidence-based research.

Find your nearest venue here www.bumpandbabyclub.com.

Helping parents keep their children through fostering Fostering has evolved over the years. Fostering now includes the fostering of unaccompanied asylum seekers and of parents with their child/ren. For each type of fostering, different skills are required. We asked the Fostering Support Group to tell us more about Parent and Child fostering — we found this really interesting.

What is “parent and child” fostering?

Not everyone grows up in a loving and nurturing environment and knows what it means to provide good parenting for their child. Many are faced with challenges parenting their child, and that is where “parent and child” fostering comes in.

Essentially, parent and child fostering is supporting parents to help them keep their children in their care. A mother, father or both, come into care with their babies or toddlers to receive guidance and life skills such as cooking, providing stimulation and providing a routine for their child. A parent and child foster placement offers a parent the opportunity to learn these valuable life skills in a home environment.

What is entailed?

Parent and child fostering is different from other types of fostering because the parent is responsible for the care for their child—the role familiesonline.co.uk

of the foster carer is to provide guidance and support to help the parent care for their child effectively.

With specialist training from the Fostering Support Group (FSG), our foster carers share their skills with young parents who have different difficulties. can you foster?

Our foster carers come from different backgrounds and experiences. Working with FSG is like one big happy family where you are provided with 24hour support, guidance and training. Foster carers can be employed or

unemployed (even if you are on benefits), single or married, have children or not, homeowners or renting, from a faith background or not. We want to hear from you.

FSG offer a competitive fostering allowance with robust 24hour support from a dedicated supervising social worker, ongoing training and encouragement. Working from home as a foster carer has never been so rewarding.

Get in touch with us to discuss your individual circumstance and to learn how you can foster.

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Great for small parties

Perfect for Baby Showers, Gender Reveal and Bridal Showers

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Top tips for a budget party

Home baking

It is hard not to feel the pressure when arranging a birthday celebration. Parents often try and out do each other and of course if one child has something at their party, then the next one wants it at theirs, which can lead to unnecessary expense.

There is wisdom in the timing

Planning ahead

If you hold a party between 3pm and 5pm, you can provide party snacks or treats instead of a meal. Try fruit kebabs that you dip in melted chocolate for a fun treat. Hiring a chocolate fountain — or try borrowing one from your local Facebook group—could also be a fun way to end the party. Just warn the parents not to dress their children in their best party clothes!

Older children would probably prefer a pizza delivery, Pappa Ciccia deliver to your home or party venue.

Plan ahead and keep your eye out throughout the year for party decorations that are reduced.

Chances are you could pick up everything you need for a fraction of the cost.

Food The tip is to keep it simple and don’t prepare too much. The classics are always the best for a child’s party—sandwiches, crisps, jelly and cake—the perfect combination. Believe me, it is all they want.

Try e-invites Create your own digital invitations to email to guests. You can also use the free option at www.paperlesspost.com and pay a small amount using various other websites, like www.mini-epic.com. Founder of the business Jonathan says “Our digital invitations can be created and sent in just a few minutes, with no paper or postage involved, which not only saves you time and money but also saves some trees! But what's proving really popular is the ability to download your Mini-Epic invitation to share via WhatsApp."

Look for bargains Your pound shop can be a treasure trove of party napkins and decorations. Buy plain paper bags and get the children to personalise them.

You could also make cupcakes and get the children to decorate them. Party favours and entertainment all at the same time!

Simple arts & craft

Share Split the cost by sharing the party with a classmate whose birthday is at a similar time.

Just make sure you agree who is doing what!

Don’t forget to say thanks Take a group photo of all the children at the party and print it off at Boots or use an online site. Get your child to write a thank you note on the back with a Sharpie or gold pen. A great memento and thank you all at once!

Make it sustainable!

Dressing up

Don’t forget to keep hold of candles, cake stands and party decorations and reuse them year after year. One of the biggest expenses and the most plastic-ladden can be party bags.

They are a party must-have but why not think outside the box and find alternatives? You could do crafty activities throughout the party where the children make their own items for the party bags. Plastic bags are a definite nono.

Seasonal birthdays If your child has a summer birthday why not organise a picnic with games in the park to celebrate? That way you get wide-open spaces, plenty of fresh air and all the fun of a picnic hamper.

And if your child is a winter baby, a game of football or rounders is always a favourite, whatever the weather. All you need is the toast and hot chocolate afterwards to warm everyone up.

Football party in the park

Painting is always fun!

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PARTIES Children’s parties are always a hot topic of conversation in most households across the country. Who to invite? What theme? Which location? We’ve talked to local party specialists and planners to find out the top party ideas for 2019, so you don’t have to.

Become a jungle VIP with Go Ape choose your own theme and make it let the experts do the hark work Nutty’s children’s Parties offer a variety of funpacked, exciting, dynamic, interactive, imaginative and original parties. Adventure Parties (with action packed, themed, original characters including: Pirate Dan, Super Dan, Wizard Dee, The Princess and many more), Discos (highly energized games and competitions with a full soundsystem and lights), Drama Workshop Parties, Holiday Workshops and more are all on offer for ages 3-11.

Nutty’s is run by father of two Danny Nutt (hence the ‘Nutty’s’!) and cover the whole of

London and the South East. They also have a team up in Tyne & Wear.

All parties are run by experienced, dedicated, fully DBS checked professional actors and most themes can be catered for.

For more info on Nutty’s and to book, please call Danny on 07884-050954, email danny@nuttyschildrensparties.co.uk or visit www.nuttyschildrensparties.co.uk For regular updates and their many 5* reviews please also visit www.facebook.com/nuttyschildrensparties

Become a Jungle VIP with a unique birthday party at Go Ape. If you're planning a birthday celebration for a group of young explorers then a Tree Top Junior adventure is the answer.

Release those little monkeys onto a Go Ape course designed just for them. They’ll enjoy an hour of canopy exploring, trail blazing and wobbly obstacles, all up to 6m off the forest floor. Return to earth by descending an epic zip wire, then enjoy a picnic lunch in their Party Room; it's the perfect place for the children to exchange gifts and dig into their well-deserved Go Ape party bags. Guaranteed thrills !

Battersea Park www.goape.co.uk

Memorable interactive fun filled children’s entertainment!

With more than 20 years experience, The Action Station offers unique entertainment solutions, tailored to the age of the children, your preferred theme and budget.

Specialising in Imaginative Interactive Storytelling, a team of professional actors and actresses share their passion with their audience, taking them along their unique adventures. Choose from mermaids, witches, fairies or princesses, knights, pirates, cowboys, and many more!

Alternatively their Spy, Cheerleader or Drama parties for older children create a unique, fun and creative experience for all.

From a large selection of vetted performances, they make sure their entertainers have what it takes to impress the young and the restless looking for original entertainment. Juggling acts, stilt walkers, fire eaters, puppet shows, mad cap magicians and clowns, face painters …. and much more! – they seek out the best and most unique entertainment option for your party.

Create unique parties with the Action Station – 0870 770 2705 www.theactionstation.co.uk

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

Action Station performances are sure to captivate young audiences

info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

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Have a legendary Pizza making party Pappa ciccia offer an all round solution for a wonderful stress free party. Their package includes the venue, educational fun and the party food all in one place in Fulham.

Have a pirate party ... on real pirate ship!

“I highly recommend this pizza making, it’s both fun and educational. My husband and I were well looked after with a glass of vino and olives while your staff took care of the party.” Mrs Harty

Ahoy! Climb the gangplank on a real-life pirate ship with your own birthday crew for a truly unique party. The Golden Hinde is the perfect party venue for pirates turning 5 and up, you can even have a sleepover experience aboard the ship too!

The Golden Hinde crew will help you become the best pirate crew in London. If you're worthy pirates, they'll teach you how to fire cannons, hunt for treasure, raise the anchor and set sail for glory. Who knows? You might even come across a Spanish galleon to plunder!

… or get pizzas delivered to your party venue Pappa Ciccia also deliver delicious authentic Italian pizza right to your party venue, church hall, school, nursery, a park etc

Their immersive sleepover experience is fantastic for children aged 6-11. Learn the skills to be part of Francis Drake’s crew and do your bit against the Spanish. Feast together in the hold on Tudor fare of stew and grog, and bunk down in authentic sleeping quarters.

Oh I wish I was a child!

The Golden Hine is moored in central London.

To find out more visit www.goldenhinde.co.uk or call 020 7403 0123.

New for 2019 amazing Lego parties

They deliver in SW3, SW5, SW6, SW7, SW10, SW13, SW14, SW15, SW18, parts of SW19, W6 and W14.

Contact Pappa Ciccia on 07956970258 or visit www.pappacicciacatering.com

Adam Ants parties Adam Ants offers amazing parties at affordable prices. 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.

They also offer amazing disco/sports parties or the ever popular a Build a Bear party. 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?

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

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0208 679 4243

3 Performing arts training of the highest standard 3 For children aged 4 - 13 Years 3 Working towards a yearly performanace & LAMDA examinations 3 Building Confidence and Promoting social development 3 Fun & Inspiring tuition taught in a Enrolling safe and stimulating environment NOW! 3 Small class sizes Little Voices lessons are held at: St Mary’s Church, Putney - Every Monday & Wednesday

BOOK A FREE TRIAL LESSON! For more information and to book a free trial, visit: www.littlevoices.org.uk or call: 0208 088 0112, Email: SWL@littlevoices.org.uk

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Cricket parties

Bespoke clothing for schools and clubs

Term time courses in Wimbledon and Wandsworth

Looking for a club?

Cricket Dynamics are recruiting new players for the coming season.

Playing in the NEC league.

Under 9s, under 11s & under 13s age groups welcome.

Also Holiday courses.

1:1 Coaching Equipment manufacturer

info@cricketdynamics.co.uk

Follow us @cricketdynamics

07946 559 572

www.cricketdynamics.co.uk

Like us /cricketdynamics

36 Families South West • March/April 2019

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Your local clubs and classes news...

Clubs and Classes News

Taking part in extra-curricular activities after school can have a positive impact on children academically and socially.

Learning something outside of the classroom can give children a sense of wonder about the world, and more time to explore their wider interests. Extracurricular activities are also useful for broadening their academic and social lives.

LAGAD Gymnastics & Dance classes in chelsea LAGAD provides high quality, dynamic and fun Gymnastics and Dance classes in London. Their classes in Chelsea run on Saturdays from 2nd March and are specially designed for children aged 3 ½-16 years, General, Intermediate and Advanced levels.

Highly trained and qualified coaches work with all abilities to bring out the best in every child.

All abilities welcome, Trial Classes available.

LAGAD, 155a King’s Road, London SW3 5TX 020 8883 4675 info@lagad.co.uk www.lagad.co.uk

Fun filled drama and singing lessons Little Voices prides itself on creating inspirational, fun filled Drama and Singing lessons for children aged 4-13 years preparing children for the prestigious LAMDA examinations as well as yearly performances. Their exam pass rate is exemplary with 98% of their pupils gaining either Merit or Distinction grades. The life skills that develop by attending Little Voices

for all children are fantastic and it is an accessible activity for all young people not just for the theatrically talented few.

Little Voices are enrolling now for their LAMDA exam semester, with FREE TRIAL LESSONS. 020 8088 0112 swl@littlevoices.org.uk

Four ways to boost your child’s self-esteem

The Art club in Wimbledon The Art club in Wimbledon is held on Saturday mornings during term times at the Building Blocks Hall, 184b Kingston Rd, SW19 3NU. Classes last one hour and are ideal for children aged 6-16 who enjoy art and would like to develop their creativity. The cost is £8.50 per week payable termly in advance. A free trial class can be arranged.

Please email anntagholm@btinternet.com or info@janettefryceramics.co.uk for information or visit www.theartclubinwimbledon.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Perform offer a unique mix of drama, dance and singing—specially developed and written by them—to bring out every child's true potential. They have teamed up with positive parenting expert, Anita Cleare, to bring Families top tips for boosting self-esteem.

Encourage laughter and show you care Play, chat, share jokes and funny stories.

Laughter helps children relax and feel good about themselves. Be affectionate. Snuggle and cuddle! Show your child they are utterly lovable exactly as they are.

Encourage independence When children do things for themselves and are praised for this, they feel proud. Teach your child to dress themselves and wash their own hair.

More tips from Anita can be found at www.anitacleare.co.uk To book a FREE confidence-building Perform drama class in your area, visit www.perform.org.uk/try

use believable praise It’s not believable to tell your child he did something well when he clearly didn’t. Praise concrete achievements. Saying ‘Well done for keeping on running' (even when he lost the race) tells your child exactly what they have done well.

Listen to their ideas Expressing ideas and being listened to help children feel valued. Involve them in practical family problem-solving by asking for their input. This helps them feel they are making a positive contribution.

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Feed the sheep at Bocketts Farm in Surrey. See their Easter activities pages 45

Children need to spend time in nature

Get out for some fresh air this Easter!

Here are some of our favourite places to enjoy the Great Outdoors this Easter. city farms and parks We are blessed with many parks in south west London, did you know we also have the most amazing farms? Deen City farm in Merton and Vauxhall City farm are firm favourites in our family. You can see many small farm animals like ducks, rabbits, sheep, you also book pony rides. Have you taken your child to see the five dinosaurs that lurk around the lake in Crystal Palace? There are remains of a Victorian prehistoric theme park created on the site by Benjamin Waterhouse-Hawkins. There is a farm there too. All three farms are free to visit.

chelsea Physic Garden 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW3 4HS, www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Tucked away beside the Thames, Chelsea Physic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in London and houses around 5,000 different medicinal, herbal, edible and useful plants.

Family activities include exploring the world of mini-beasts to learning how to make your own herbal remedies and chocolate blends. Family ticket £25.

There will run many Easter activities including learning to make your own lotions and potions on 9th April, ages 8+. On the 11th April Dine with dinosaurs: use a Garden map, find living fossils then create your very own Mesozoic garden-terrarium to take home, ages 5-12. On 18th April learn how to photograph wildlife, make plant portraits and turn your pictures into great gifts, ages 12-17. All workshop tickets are £15.

Kew Gardens www.kew.org Connect more closely with nature, discover a

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diverse variety of plants and explore the 250 year history of the Gardens. Balance, hop and skip along the Log Trail. Discover the secret life of bees in The Hive. Explore the underground world of badgers in the life-sized sett, where you can enter into a warren of tunnels that connect food stores, sleeping chambers and nests. Get scared from the Treetop Walkway, admire the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world. Look for bananas, coconuts, cocoa, vanilla, and coffee in the Palm House. Spot orchids, cacti, prickly pears, and giant waterlilies in the Princess of Wales Conservatory.

Families 2 adults & up to 2 children £44*/£40 buy online it’s cheaper!

London, then go cycling in Bishops Park or let them have fun in the large playground.

Hever castle Edenbridge, Kent, www.hevercastle.co.uk Explore the historic Castle and grounds of the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, where children can go wild in the Tudor Towers or Acorn Dell play areas. Admission £46.85 families.

6-22 April. Family entertainment throughout the Easter holidays includes an Easter trail and craft workshops.

Need more inspiration? Visit Ham House and garden in Richmond then go a walk along the Thames, visit Morden Hall park (next to Deen City Farm) and of course make the most of Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park for cycling

WWT London Wetland centre Barnes SW13 9WT, 01453 891 900, www.wwt.org.uk An urban oasis for wildlife and people. Stroll among the lakes, ponds and gardens, take your children to the play areas and stop for cafe refreshments. Open 9.30am to 5.30pm daily, entry £35.54 families. Check the Easter activities online.

Fulham Palace Bishop's Avenue, Fulham SW6 6EA, www.fulhampalace.org The Museum of Fulham Palace charts the long history of the palace site, from Prehistoric times and Roman settlement, through Medieval, Tudor, Georgian and Victorian bishops to the present day. Admission free.

There will be many Easter activities for children, check our What’s on column for details. Spend an afternoon in the walled garden, one of our favourite gardens in

Make lotions and potions at Chelsea Physic Garden

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The rise of self-harming: What can be done?

Expert advice from leading psychiatrist Dr Maite Ferrin

epression and self-harm are growing concerns for parents of adolescents, particularly teenaged girls. According to findings in a recent study by the Children's Society, nearly a quarter of 14 year old girls may have selfharmed in the last year. As your child approaches adolescence, it’s advisable to watch out for signs of stress and anxiety because it is these that can give rise to self-harming behaviour in the teenage years.

D

Self-harm is an adaptive coping mechanism to deal with any stressor in life. Stressors may include social media pressure, bullying, issues concerning sexuality, school pressure or problems within the home or social environment, to name a few. However, selfharming may also reflect a more impairing psychological condition such as anxiety, depression or PTSD. It’s important that a correct diagnosis is made and effective and adequate treatment is obtained from a medical expert specialising in this field. If, at any stage, you have reason to believe your child is selfharming, do seek medical support immediately.

There are many reasons that may contribute towards a child self-harming including an attempt to alleviate emotional pain that cannot be expressed verbally, self-punishment, an attempt to relieve feelings of shame or guilt, an attempt to stop feeling numb, the communication of psychological anxiety, a cry for help or an act to seek attention. The reason your child is self-harming may be one of the above or a complex combination of many different reasons.

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If your child is self-harming: Approach gently The majority of young people who are selfharming feel ashamed of their behaviour. An initial soft, empathetic approach is recommended, as they may worry about you judging them negatively.

Listen Young people who self-harm often feel invisible, unheard and misunderstood. Try to create a safe space in which they can freely discuss their problems without interruption, so that they are more inclined to open up and talk discuss their problems. use empathic language Use simple empathic responses to what your child is saying. Phrases such as “Sounds like things have been quite tough for you,” “I can see how this would be very challenging,” “I understand how difficult this must be for you” can be useful. It is also vital to offer your child some hope and support e.g. “Thank you for sharing this with me. Let’s think about how we can make you feel better.”

Remain calm - getting upset, uptight or emotional (despite the fact that you will be feeling this way) may cause your child to close up and refrain from talking.

Validate and acknowledge your child’s emotions and struggles - share any relevant and relatable experiences of your own.

If your child does not want to talk – don’t put overwhelming pressure on them as this could escalate problems.

Avoid punishing the self-harming act or imply that their feelings aren’t important - this may deepen their feelings of guilt or shame.

Focus on the underlying struggles of the child rather than the actual act of self-harming – remember that the self-harm is a consequence and often a coping mechanism so you need to address the causes and not the symptom.

Encourage healthy ways of coping with stress – exercise, meditation, deep breathing reading or art are all de-stressors. You can help your child find a coping mechanism that suits them.

Reinforce your child’s strengths – sometimes it’s all too easy to focus on the negatives rather than embracing and celebrating your child’s positive attributes.

Don’t expect a quick fix for the self-harming behaviour - it can take a long time to break a habit or change mindset. Be patient.

Allow your child time to learn alternative coping mechanisms to replace the self-harm behaviours.

Accept that you cannot solve this problem alone – seek support from school counsellors, medical professionals and people that have shared a similar experience. There are lots of online resources that also provide great information.

Dr Maite Ferrin is a Consultant Psychiatrist at Re:Cognition Health, a brain and mind clinic with a specialist Children’s and Young Peoples Service which diagnoses and treats a wide range of mental health conditions. For more information, visit www.recognitionhealth.com

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Easter Holiday activities compiled by Joanna Parry

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

Arts & crafts Dove Studios 105 Dovehouse Street, Chelsea SW3 6JZ 07775 682094 dove-studios.com Dates in Easter Holidays Making Art Fun Fun arts and crafts for all, ages 5-8, 9-12 and 13-18, hourly sessions, all levels welcome.

Includes Portfolio prep, painting, drawing, 3D and puppet making.

Kids En Cuisine Venues across SW London 020 3015 2966 www.kidsencuisine.com Dates in March and April Cookery Camp Learn about healthy food by cooking real dishes with vegetables, fruits, aromatic herbs and spices. Join them at Whole Food Market, Planet Organic, As Nature Intended, in their kitchen in the heart of Westminster or they can even come to you with all the kitchen utensils needed to have fun.

Little House of Science Venues in SW7 0800 092 1062, info@littlehouseofscience.com www.littlehouseofscience.com 1-18 April Easter Holiday Camps Join in captivating scientific journeys where children will discover a variety of interesting facts from Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Join in a week of discoveries of the most amazing inventions of humanity: hot air balloons, airplanes, rockets, cars, submarines and Mars exploration rovers.

The Science geniuses who changed the world - familiarising young scientists with the work of some of the greatest scientists and their fascinating discoveries inc atoms, DNA, evolution, forces, electricity, mechanics, gravity, medicine, light, space travel and much more!

The wonders of biology - Why is the world so diverse and how are various species interconnected?

Learn about animal and vegetable cells, microorganisms and their importance.

Age 4-7 and 8-12, 9.30am-3.30pm, with early drop off available.

Languages Alpine French School French Alps +33 4 50 79 08 38 www.alpinefrenchschool.com 8-12 and 15-19 April Intensive French GCSE and A-Level Camps Intensive French GSCE and A-Level courses, helping you to focus on exam skills and how to excel in examinations. Learn insider tips, plus targeted exam preparation and interactive and communicative activities, with emphasis on getting speaking and listening skills up to level. Prices start from 280€ for one week.

Et Patati Patata Venues across SW London 07966 893674, caroline@etpatatipatata.com www.etpatatipatata.com 8-12 and 15-19 April Fun French Easter Day Camps Join the award winning French immersion programme and learn French without leaving London.

Fun activities including French music, French art, patisserie, French coding, French musical, sport…and it’s all 100% French fun!

Age 4-10, plus a Teen GCSE programme, 9am-3pm.

Book now for your Playball Easter camps: they are always very popular!

children to computer coding in a fun, engaging environment.

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.

Naomi Martin Touch Typing Sinclair House School, 59 Fulham High Street SW6 3JJ 07949 204553, www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk Throughout Easter Holidays Touch Typing Courses for children aged 7-18, classes are 90 minutes long, mixed age and ability. Sibling discounts available, 9.30-11am or 11.30am-1pm, £250 for the week.

NumberWorks’nWords Battersea 187a Lavender Hill, Clapham Junction SW11 5TB 020 7223 1882 numberworksnwords.com/uk/ourlocations/unitedkingdom/battersea Dates throughout Easter GCSE Revision Courses GCSE revision courses and SATS practice courses run throughout the Easter holidays. Call them for times and prices. Plus maths tutoring, English tutoring and individual tuition programmes.

Developing skills Spark4Kids Venues in Dulwich 020 8090 1444 www.spark4kids.com Dates in Easter Holidays Easter Holiday Computer Coding Workshops Spark4Kids runs holiday workshops that introduce

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Yellowbird Education SW6, SW4, SW12, W4 and now NW11 020 7731 0695 / 07790 912318 www.yellowbirdeducation.com 1-5 and 8-12 April Hugely popular educational workshops to develop skills in

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

Role Models Day Courses Chelsea Academy School SW10 0AB 020 3637 7107 www.rolemodels.me, info@rolemodels.me 8-12 April Leadership Course Leadership is being able to support, encourage and motivate others to achieve a shared goal, and one of the most important qualities in order to do this is a high level of empathy and emotional intelligence. Learn to identify and understand emotions, strengths and weaknesses in this course. Age 8-11.

Resilience Course Helping your child to develop their resilience is one of the most effective ways to help them thrive at school, home, work and in life in general. By developing a growth mindset, they can learn to push themselves outside of their comfort zone, embrace new experiences and persist within areas that might not be their strengths. Age 8-11, 10am3pm.

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Music and Drama

learn whilst having fun. Age 4-8, 9.30am-1.30pm, £30 per pupil, with a £5 sibling discount.

Perform Drama

Allsorts drama Notting Hill Prep School W11 020 8969 3249 www.allsortsdrama.com DRAMA WORKSHOPS Popular and fun drama workshops for ages 4-6 and 711, 8–12 April . The perfect way to keep your child entertained and stimulated in a creative and structured way.

9.30am – 3.30pm. Fee £230 Yellowbird Education

Dantastic Across SW London including Southfields Library, Sindbads Raynes Park and Corfield Centre, Streatham 07460 222003 www.dantasticproductions.com/cl asses Dates in Easter Holidays Baby and Toddler Classes Action packed, interactive musical adventure classes aimed to inspire, educate, build confidence and improve fitness. Expecting plenty of singing, dancing, puppets, instruments and sensory activities.

Drop in for only £8 (£5 siblings), dates vary depending on venue.

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes Funky Monkey

Streatham, Clapham and Blackheath, Herne Hill, Sevenoaks, Sydenham 01732 457100, mail@funkymonkey.info www.funkymonkey.info 8, 9, 11 or 12 April One Day Easter Holiday Workshops The perfect opportunity to try out the keyboard and make music the fun way.

Children learn in small groups how to write and play notes C-G and try some famous tunes using electronic keyboards. It's a wonderful, relaxed introduction to practical and theoretical music, and with games, quizzes and art activities all based around music thrown in for good measure, you'll be amazed how much they can

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Venues across SW London 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk Dates in April Alice in Wonderland Have fun tumbling down the rabbit hole into the topsy-turvy world of Wonderland. Meet the white rabbit, the Queen of Hearts and Alice herself on this colourful adventure into the land of your own imagination. And things stand to get 'curiouser and curiouser' thanks to tea with The Mad Hatter, a game of imaginary flamingo croquet and even a chat with The Cheshire Cat. Ages 4-10, 10am-3pm, £206.

a performance in the amazing Tara Theatre for family and friends, complete with lighting and costume! Great for building confidence, learning new skills and making friends. 9am-3.30pm.

The Strings Club Tooting Primary School, Franciscan Road, Tooting SW17 8HE 0121 296 9204 www.thestringsclub.org 8-12 April Easter Holiday Camp Inspire your child through music this Easter with The Strings Club’s multi award-winning, Ofsted registered Holiday Camp in Tooting. Children will learn skills, make friends and grow in confidence. Book half days from £20, 8th-12th April. New to them? Bring a friend for free!

Upbeat Music Stagecoach Battersea Northcote Lodge, Bolingbroke Grove SW11 6EL 07956 288928 www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea 15-18 April Easter Holiday Performing Arts Camp 4 days (or mornings) of dance, acting and singing with experienced West End professionals. Come and put on a show for friends and family to enjoy. You don't have to attend Stagecoach classes - everyone is welcome! Childcare vouchers accepted. 9.30am-12.30pm for 4-6 year olds, £120, or 10am-4pm for 7-16 year olds, £165.

Stars Performing Arts club Tara Theatre, Earlsfield 07846 385 423 www.starspaclubs.com 8-12 April Easter Holiday Club. Spend the week rehearsing the smash hit musical ‘School of Rock’, whilst mixing it up with lots of games and prop making. Finish the week with

Thomas’s Academy, Parsons Green SW6 4LY 07816 901396 www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk 3-5 and 8-12 April Pop and Rock Fun at Upbeat Easter Camps Sing, dance, play in a band, record your tracks and then perform them. Courses end with a performance and CD presentation.

Age 4-14, sibling discounts available, 10am-4pm.

Sport All Star Tennis Leaders Gardens SW15 1LS King Georges Park SW18 2GJ Wandsworth Common SW18 3RT Tooting Common SW17 8JU 020 8871 4706 www.allstartennis.co.uk/holidaycamps 1-24 April Easter Holiday Tennis Camps All Star Tennis award-winning camps are back this Easter and filling up quickly. They will be extra special this time as they celebrate their

Stagecoach Battersea

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20th Anniversary, and as always will be packed with games, drills, tennis technique, match preparation, fun tournaments, trick shots, prizes and team games. Plus, a chance to dress up on the last day. 3-4 years - 3-4pm, 5-7 years - 10am-1pm and 3-5pm, 8-12 years - 10am3pm, Teens - 12-4pm.

Chelsea FC Soccer School Venues across SW London 020 7957 8220 londondevelopment@chelseafc.com / soccerschools@chelseafc.com www.chelseafc.com/foundation / www.chelseasoccerschools.co.uk Throughout Easter Holidays London Soccer School For boys and girls aged 4-13. All abilities welcome, times vary according to course, from £30.

Cricket Dynamics Venues across Wimbledon and Wandsworth 07946 559572 cricketdynamics.co.uk 8-11 and 15-18 April, dates vary according to venue Easter Holiday Courses Easter tennis courses for Under 7s, Under 10s and Under 13s, for beginners to advanced. Times vary depending on age groups, see website for details.

Single day play options available, or book for the week.

£21 per day, with discounts for booking the whole week. 3-14 years.

GoApe Battersea Battersea Park SW11 4NJ goape.co.uk/daysout/london/battersea Throughout Easter Holidays GoApe Battersea is open 9am-5pm every day throughout the Easter break, with its Tree Top Junior (1 hour activity), £21. For the fully grown Tarzans and Janes, you won’t even feel like you’re in the city as you’ll be fully immersed in the pursuit to conquer some of the longest and highest crossings with the Tree Top Adventure (3 hour activity), from £28.

Their friendly instructors are ready and waiting to propel you into a leafy world of canopies too, including bridges and zip wires that guarantee a family vibe across the tree tops.

Jonathan Markson Easter Tennis Clinic Barn Elms Sportsground, Barnes www.marksontennis.com/londontennis-camp 15—18 April & 19—22 April Intensive tennis coaching clinics for children 7 - 17 years old (15 - 18 April) and adults (19 - 22 April). Focus on a keystroke per day to help improvers and allow experienced players to perfect their skills in groups of one to six players. £315 pp, 10am—4pm each day.

Fulham FC Foundation Venues in Fulham 0870 442 5432, holidaycourses@fulhamfc.com www.fulhamsoccerschools.com Throughout Easter Holidays Holiday Courses Soccer schools run every day, 9am to 3pm. Play tons of football, learn new skills and make lots of new friends. Taking place at Fulham FC’s Training Ground in Motspur Park, Bishops Park in Fulham, Dundonald Rec in Wimbledon and other venues across South West London. Prices start from

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

16, 17 and 18 April Easter Holiday Gym Camps Don’t miss out on the opportunity to join these popular classes for children of all ages. The programme focuses on building new skills and developing confidence while the kids have loads of fun. Age 3-8, 9.30am-12.30pm, members £39, non-members £46.

Jonathan Markson Tennis

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There are also drop in classes available. Spaces are limited so book in advance.

Playball Battersea Park and Oak Lodge School, Nightingale Lane 020 8123 2217 www.playballLondon.com 8-12th April Easter Holiday Camps: Fun camps for 3-8 year olds, with treasure hunts, Playball games and skills, water balloons and a whole lot more. You may do as many days as you would like and you do not have to be a Playballer to join... Dates vary depending on venue. 10am-1pm (lunch at around 11:30am). Parents may drop children off for the duration of camp, as there will be 7 coaches present…

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

S W Swimming School Emanuel School SW11 1HS Ernest Bevin School, Beechcroft Road, Tooting SW17 7DF 0208 767 2723, operations@swswimschool.co.uk www.swswimschool.co.uk Dates in Easter Holidays TBc Intensive Courses Intensive splash courses where children swim everyday with same instructor. All lessons are 30 minutes each day, running between 9am-12pm Monday to Friday.

Battersea Park Zoo

Multi Activities Battersea Park Children’s Zoo www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk/ There will be many games, craft and chocolate activities this Easter at our beloved zoo. See website for full details. Here is a taster.

6-22 April Easter Egg Search How many lucky zoo animals have got colourful Easter eggs this year?

Simply purchase a quiz sheet upon entry & use the clues to help you work out where those eggs are!

9 April Hedgehog Day The PTES (People’s Trust for Endangered Species) are coming to the zoo; there will be lots of Hedgehog themed activities: Hedgehog arts + crafts, Hedgehog story time, a chance to chat with a hedgehog rescuer and meet a real hedgehog!

Barracudas Activity Day Camps Visit www.barracudas.co.uk/camps or phone 01480 467567 for further details.

Easter holiday entertainment is sorted for 4.5–14 year olds with a brilliant programme of over 80 amazing activities. Standard hours are 8.30am to 5.30pm and cost £40/day.

The camps run at Streatham and Clapham High school from 8-18 April. Early & late pick-ups are available to extend the day from 8am to 6pm.

Bocketts Farm www.bockettsfarm.co.uk 5th – 23rd April 2019 Easter Eggstravaganza. Enjoy a great family day out this Spring, as the lambing season gets into full swing!

With over 350 gorgeous newborn

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lambs due you might even watch one being born! Children will also love to get up close to the baby chicks, ducklings and bunnies, in addition to goat milking, tractor rides, pony rides and pig racing.

Book ahead for the Summer

Eddie Catz Wimbledon and Earlsfield 42 Station Road SW19 2LP 279 Magdalen Road SW18 3NZ 0203 4755268 eddiecatz.com Throughout Easter Holidays Holiday Activities Across the two branches in SW London – Earlsfield and Wimbledon Colliers Wood – there will be plenty of holiday camps, creative workshops and parties to choose from. See www.eddiecatz.com for more information and to book online.

Prices usually include lunch and a free play at the venue, plus Eddie

Catz appears in all venues twice a day to meet and greet the children.

Join All Stars Cricket Youngstars Multi-Sports and Activity Camp Balham, Clapham, Parsons Green, Putney and Wimbledon 07749 343116, info@youngstars.co.uk www.young-stars.co.uk 8-18 April Easter Holiday Camps Plenty of fun, games and excitement whilst kids are introduced to all aspects of sports in an all inclusive and non-competitive environment. 3-12 years, times and prices vary so see website for details.

Barnes, Sheen, Putney, Wimbledon, Fulham and at the Spencer Cricket club.

To get involved this summer, simply visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk, sessions begin May 2019.

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.

This year they have a brand-new Cricket World Cup themed activity book that is full of top tips, games and, it’s a great place to keep those weekly stickers to celebrate your All Star's achievements. Plus, it’s all delivered straight to your door.

Go Kid Music, and a free bowl of their famous veggie soup with most stays. They have unique glamping options in different locations with yurts, shepherds huts, and lotus bell tents or bring your own tent and choose your pitch.

They host special events for families with under 5 year olds: Little Wowo Weeks 3rd-6th June and 1st-4th July 2019.

Specialising in group camping

with their easy to use system get in touch to arrange your class camp for 2020, limited availability for 2019. New since 2018 they now host Sacred Seeds a western herbalist offering consultations and products.

Paint Pots Easter Fun Location: Paint Pots, St Mary The Boltons, The Boltons, London, SW10 9TB Book online at www.paintpotshouse.com Monday 1st —Friday 5th April Arts, crafts, music, games and other seasonal activities for children aged 3-6 yrs 9.30am-12.30pm, £45 / 9.30am-3.30pm, £65. Led by their fully qualified Nursery School and Creative Classes teachers. *All sessions are unaccompanied.

Go glamping with your under 5s Wowo is a wonderful place to take the family this summer, check out availability online www.wowo.co.uk Little Wowo is a family campsite in the heart of Sussex offering an adventure for the whole family. Enjoy campfires, workshops, nature’s playground, music in a tipi with Al Start from

46 Families South West • March/April 2019

Wowo is a wonderful place to take the family this summer, check out our availability on the website www.wowo.co.uk.

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Editor’s Pick!

Here is my choice of the best shows or events for the whole family this March and April…

Have endless fun at Easter Get some crafty inspiration Solo craft fair Balham Bowls club, Ramsden Road, SW12 8QX Meet independent businesses sell their handcrafted wares from local unique traders 12am-5pm Feature of interest: There will be a creative workshop for mum and an activity corner for the children.

Date: 30 March Price: Free entry

underbelly Festival 2019 Southbank SE1 8XX • www.underbellyfestival.com The biggest family programme ever kicks off with Family Fest, which includes the acclaimed adaptation of The Gruffalo, and The Witch and The Warthog. Other classic children’s tales include the mega hit Monstersaurus and a new theatrical adaptation of The Wind in the Willows.

Feature of interest: This year’s family programme includes ultimate family singalong Massaoke for Kids, the original adult and baby mixed bill comedy Screaming With Laughter and the wildly popular Fun Kids Radio Hour.

When? From 5 April and throughout the Easter holidays

Take your child on a theatre barge

See a play in which nothing happens

The Show in which hopefully nothing happens The unicorn Theatre, SE1 2HZ • www.unicorntheatre.com Welcome to the most boring show in history: an actor who never gets to perform and a security guard who just hopes nothing will occur. Age 6-10 Feature of interest: Created in the Netherlands, this carefully crafted, absurdist masterpiece of hope, humour and failure has been adored by critics and children across Europe, the US and Canada for the last 12 years.

Date: 21 March – 28 April Price: from £10

Try a new exciting multi sensory space

Squish Space My Shadow and Me Puppet Theatre Barge Blomfield Road (opposite 35) W9 2PF • www.puppetbarge.com The show uses practically no words with electronic music, a kazoo, a shaker and non- verbal voice effects. We love this truly simple, theatrical blend of amazing skill, humour and shadow magic. 4+ Feature of interest: It’s on a real barge!

When? To 14 April Price: Adults £13, children £9 48 Families South West • March/April 2019

Barbican centre • www.barbican.org.uk Try this new multi-sensory adventure: Squish Space offers children a safe environment to experiment with versatile material giving them the freedom to redesign the space. In this curiosity driven playground for the senses, children and their families have the chance to connect through construction play.

Feature of interest: Make it a day out and go to a Parent and baby or a Family screening.

When: Until 30 June 2019 Price: It’s free familiesonline.co.uk

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What’s On Bug Hunting at Morden Hall Park

Tabby McTat at Southbank

If you only do one thing this Easter…

Go and see Beasts of London At the Museum of London www.museumoflondon.org.uk From 5 April This is the Museum of London’s next major experience, created especially for families. Beasts of London brings to life the history of animals in the city told from the unique perspective of the animals themselves. You will be guided by various animal characters through time, from the Roman era through medieval London and right up to present day. Discover how animals—from lions and elephants, to horses, rats and pigeons—have shaped the city and its beastly history. This is definitely one not to be missed! Age 7+, family tickets from £20.

Diary Dates ...

Mum2mum Market Ricards Lodge High School, Wimbledon and other venues across SW London www.mum2mummarket.co.uk 9 March Come along and buy all kinds of nearly new toys, clothes, books, strollers, car seats, feeding accessories, baby equipment and so much more. Or if you fancy a quick clear out, why not book a stall? Admission £2 on the door, children free. Visit the Mum2mum Market website to get 2 for 1 admission. 10am-12pm

Where’s Wally? Fun run Clapham Common To book literacytrust.org.uk/wally 17 March Dress up as Wally and join thousands of runners and book lovers to raise money for the work of the National Literacy Trust. 5k or 10k run, as well as a 1k version for children under 12. You can run, jog or walk. Family £60

familiesonline.co.uk

Southbank Centre www.southbankcentre.co.uk Sat 6 – Sun 14 April Come to Southbank Centre this Easter FREE holiday for activities! sensational shows and free family fun.

Enjoy original songs and a sprinkling of magic in the heart-warming family show Tabby McTat or perhaps you would prefer to play in giant sandpits illuminated by beautiful graphics at Soundpit.

And expect lots more!

BFI W1T 1LN www.bfi.org.uk/families Saturdays in March and April Saturday Film Clubs. These Saturday film clubs are a must for any child who loves film and wants to have fun! Topics cover everything from animation and adverts, to sci-fi and special effects. The clubs are hugely popular so book early. Mini Filmmakers for ages 8-11, 10.30am – 12.30pm, Young Filmmakers for ages 12-15, 2-4.30pm.

Hotel Chocolat Tasting Experience Coca-Cola London Eye www.hotelchocolat.com/uk/experi ences

Dates in March and April Sample delicious chocolates on board the London Eye. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream: sipping chilled Prosecco whilst learning all about the world of chocolate and taking in the incredible views of the London skyline. You’ll find out how to taste it, when to taste it and, of course, do a fair bit of actual tasting as well – perfect!

NCT Bumps and Babies Group Riverside Pub, St George’s Wharf SW8 2LE Every Tuesday in March and April Come along at 2.30pm to meet up with other pregnant people or people with babies - completely free and nice drinks available.

Contact Caroline Flint 07973 657 642, email caroline.midwife@gmail.com

Kew Gardens Richmond, Surrey www.kew.org To 10 March Orchids Festival. Colombia is the world’s most bio-diverse for orchids, with over 4270 species!

Also, enjoy Carnival music, street food and crafts for kids – there promises to be loads to do to keep even the littlest entertained.

6-23 April Easter Family Programme. Loads of family activities for all ages during the Easter holidays, including exploring the colour spectrum and finding out what colour means to plants.

From 18 May Children’s Garden. Kew’s most ambitious design project of recent years opens this May. The size of nearly 40 tennis courts, this giant new children’s garden has been designed for children to play and explore the hidden treasures, trees and adventure parks. Includes a giant sand pit, quirky play hut village and tunnel slides, a Sun Garden with rings of sunflowers and pergolas festooned with edible fruits, and a Water Garden with water pubs and splash pools.

Ages 2-12.

Comedy Club 4 Kids at Soho Theatre Sohotheatre.com To 16 March Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been getting the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit to do their thing for an audience of children and their families but without the rude bits! It's just like a normal

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Family Workshop, Foundling Museum

2-14 April London Games Fesitval

comedy club, but it's on in the day, kids are allowed in, and thus there is a higher than usual chance of heckles like "why is that your face!?"

second hand goods at our award winning, pop-up baby and children's market nearly new sales.

Admission £2 on the door, children free. 3.30-5.30pm

St Patrick’s Day

Morden Hall Park

Across central London 17 March Join in the lively Irish celebrations with St Patrick’s Day events and activities in London. This year’s theme is #LondonIsOpen.

SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk 24, 30 and 31 March Mum’s The Word. Make a gift for mum that just keeps growing. You'll get to plant up your very own flower and decorate its pot for a present she'll never forget. £4 per child, drop-in, no need to book, all ages, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm.

Can You Foster?

Venues in Wandsworth www.wandsworth.gov.uk/carer_ex periences 21 March Find out more about fostering at one of these events. Go to the website or call 020 8871 6666 to find out more.

NCT Clapham Branch Baby First aid course At Physio For All, 40 Webbs Road SW11 6SF www.nct.org.uk 23 March The course is run in conjunction with First Aid for Life and consists of a single session (2-5pm). £59

Learn to Play Day Venues across London musicforall.org.uk/learntoplayday 23-24 March A free event to Don’t encourage everyone miss this! to start making music, with music shops, teachers, venues and schools throughout London partnering with leading musical instrument brands to offer thousands of FREE music lessons. Includes Croydon Music Hub, Unity Centre of South London in Balham, Early Music Shop on Denmark Street, and Yamaha Music London on Wardour Street.

Fulham Palace Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org 24 March Hands-on Archaeology. Explore the wealth of archaeology at Fulham Palace and discover the past through investigating artefacts and exploring the world around you. Free, all ages welcome, 1-3pm.

11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 25 March Palace Explorers. These fun and creative facilitated sessions are geared specifically to 2-4 year olds and their adults. Each week we will explore and learn together around a different theme, with arts and crafts, storytelling and dressing up, games and gardening. £5 per child.

Wondrous Libraries!

British Library NW1 2DB www.bl.uk/learning 24 March Join in this creative workshop and design your own extraordinary library map. 12-12.30pm and 13.30pm, age 5-11 but younger children welcome. Free, first come, first served.

Mum2mum Market Immanuel and St Andrew's Church, 452 Streatham High Road SW16 3PY www.mum2mummarket.co.uk 23 March Buy top quality baby and children's familiesonline.co.uk

Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. ExCel, Royal Victoria Dock To 31 March Step into the world of superheroes with the immersive Marvel

Mum goes free on Mother’s day at Morden Hall Park

Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. experience.

Train to become one of your favourite Marvel characters using authentic props and technology by NASA. Enjoy never-before-seen character displays spread over several rooms, and discover the backstory and super workings of each Avengers character.

London Games Festival 2019 Across London games.london 2-14 April Celebrate the art, culture and business of gaming, and try out hundreds of games at the 2019 London Games Festival. Includes the amazing Games Character Parade on 6 April.

place of magic, wonder, and enchantment. Hang on the trapeze, hula hoop, juggle, spin high in the silks and more. Family classes accommodate all ages and abilities, allowing the entire family to have fun and get fit together.

Designed for parents and children under 5, the talented Circus Dreams team will constantly be on hand to teach you and your little ones the tricks of the trade, allowing you to master the art of Acrobatics, Ariel Silks, and the Hula Hoop.

Now Play This Somerset House WC2R 1LA somersethouse.org.uk 6-14 April The annual games festival returns for its biggest edition ever, with more exciting hands-on gameplay for all ages to enjoy. From £6.50.

Plus two free outdoor installations, including a large-scale labyrinth in the courtyard and an adventurous trail around the site. £8 / £6.50 concessions.

Circus Dreams Stoke Newington www.circus-dreams.com 4 April Families’ Drop In Sunday. Circus Dreams will whisk you away to a

Mum Goes Free for Mother’s Day WWT London Wetlands Centre ww.wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/London 31 March Treat your mum to a relaxing day out with a walk to watch the wildlife flitting among the gardens and meadows. Your mum gets free admission to the Centre when accompanied by a paying child or adult. Just quote ‘Mother’s Day’ at admissions.

Painshill Park Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea www.painshill.co.uk 31 March Bring Mum for a special Mother’s Day afternoon tea in the enchanting 18th century walled garden, with seasonal flowers and plantings. Choose from finger sandwiches, homemade mini scones with jam and clotted cream and cakes, served with specialty tea or coffee and a glass of Prosecco. Adults £18.50, children £8, members get extra discount.

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Ben and Holly at New Wimbledon Theatre 4 & 5 March. Don’t miss it!

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea One Aldwych WC2B 4BZ www.onealdwych.com From 9 April From golden chocolate eggs and chocolate caramel milk to playful homemade candyfloss, wonderful teatime treats are on offer in a magical experience inspired by the sweet shop.

The Jungle Book Streatham Space Project SW2 4PA www.streathamspaceproject.co.uk 11-14 April High energy family theatre packed with adventure, comedy, puppetry and original music that takes you deep into the magical heart of the jungle. Have you discovered Streatham’s new events space?

It’s great.

THEATRE Cambridge Theatre WC2H 9HU uk.matildathemusical.com Throughout March Matilda The Musical. Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, Matilda revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dares to change her destiny.

Barnes Children’s Literature

The Jungle Book, Streatham Space Project 11-14 April

Meet Judith Kerr at the Barnes Literature Festival

Colour House Theatre www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk SW19 2RD Saturdays and Sundays to 14 April Beauty and the Beast. Many years ago a wicked witch put a spell on an arrogant young prince, turning him into a hideous Beast. The spell can only be broken if the Beast learns to love and be loved in return, before a magical rose loses its final petal. 2pm and 4pm, from £10.

Lyric Hammersmith W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk To 16 March The Animals and Children Took to the Streets Like a graphic novel burst into life, 1927 invites you on a theatrical journey of startling originality.

Seamlessly synchronising live music, performance and storytelling with stunning film and animation. From £10.

Don’t miss out!

13 April Out Of The Hat! When Doris and Delilah wake up to find something strange and sparkly has fallen from the sky, they are inspired to put on the world’s greatest magic show.

But will the conjuring trick work and will anything ever come out of the hat? 11am & 1pm, ages 2–8.

20 April The Three Billy Pigs. Once upon a time there were three little pigs, and now it is time for them to leave home. They set off to build their dream houses. But then these homes are put to the test by a misunderstood wolf who has a little bit of a problem. 11am & 1pm, ages 3–8.

27 April Hansel and Gretel. Deep in an enchanted forest, everybody’s looking for something to eat.

Hansel and Gretel are lost, searching for a way home, only to find themselves on the menu of a sweet-toothed witch. 11am & 1pm, ages 3–8.

New Wimbledon Theatre SW19 1QG atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre 4-5 March Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom.

From the makers of Peppa Pig comes this BAFTA award-winning television animation live on stage.

Join Ben & Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter.

This beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence will delight all the family! Mon at 16:30, Tue at 10:00, 13:00 and 16:30

10 March Braniac Live! Based on the Original TV Show and celebrating its 10th Anniversary live on tour, Brainiac Live! is back. More mischievous than ever before, Brainiac Live! will take you on a breathless ride through the wild world of the weird and wonderful. Expect exploding dustbins, combusting microwaves and loads of live daredevil stunts!

2pm.

Omnibus Theatre SW4 0QW www.omnibus-clapham.org 24 March Escape from Dragon City. When a dragon descends on a city, a boy has to pack a rucksack and search for a new home. He crosses mountains and oceans, looking for someone who will let him live with them. An interactive storytelling and craft workshop for under 5’s, created and performed by Amie Taylor. 11am, £6.

31 March Wow! It’s Night Time. The curious little owl is back, and this time she’s ready to discover the wonders of night-time, from the big, bright moon to the bats in the sky and the foxes deep in the forest. But where are all the other owls? When the wind blows the leaves from her tree, you’ll soon see…

11am, 1pm & 2.45pm, £9/£7, ages 2-5.

Book your ticket from 16th March, don’t miss out!

www.barneskidslitfest.org Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th May 2019 London’s largest dedicated and free children’s literature festival returns! Attracting some of the UK's best authors and illustrators for a funfilled weekend for children of all ages and led

by UK Laureate Lauren Child and master story tellers Judith Kerr, Michael Rosen, David Almond, Frank Cottrell Boyce and Francesca Simon, this year’s programme looks better than ever. The Festival is centred around Barnes Green beside the much-loved duck pond, lending it's unique 'village fair' feel.

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Polar Bears Go Go Go at the unicorn Theatre

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Orchid Festival, Kew Gardens

Peacock Theatre WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com / www.peacocktheatre.com To 9 March Cirque Eloize. Celebrating their 25th anniversary, Canadian contemporary circus crew Cirque Éloize open the doors to their new show, Hotel. In an art deco grand hotel, tourists and travellers, the famous and infamous, mingle in the 1920s, stopping over in the 1970s and 2040. Sneak behind closed doors to witness their intimate stories, guided by the time-spinning groom and the artful maître d’hôtel.

Puppet Theatre Barge Blomfield Road (opposite 35) W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com To 24 March The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse. The two famous mouse cousins take it in turns to visit one another. First the Town Mouse goes to stay with the County Mouse and has to face up to the unfamiliar world of the wild countryside. Then, the Country Mouse heads into town and has to learn to escape from the house cat and navigate the noisy city traffic. A delight for young and old, told with rod puppets, music and sing-along songs.

30 March – 24 April The Insect Circus. Visiting company String Theatre invites you to forget reality and become immersed in the strange and beautiful world of the Insect Circus. Beetles and grasshoppers, wasps and dragonflies, demonstrate their dexterity with great skill and humour. Presented using marionettes, the show breathes new life into the traditional techniques used in Victorian trick marionettes. A show without words, age 3+.

Putney Arts Theatre Ravenna Road SW15 6AW www.putneyartstheatre.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Watch the Insect Circus at the Puppet Theatre

21-23 March Young Companies Double Bill.

Join them for an exciting Double Bill performed by G64 Young Company of 16-19 year olds.

Tickets from £5.

Sadler’s Wells Rosebery Avenue EC1R www.sadlerswells.com 26-30 March Northern Ballet – Victoria. Queen Victoria’s irrepressible love for Albert sparked a royal dynasty, but his untimely death brought the world’s most powerful woman to her knees with grief.

Choreographed by Cathy Marston (Jane Eyre), Northern Ballet’s latest creation Victoria reveals the life of one of history’s most intriguing women – a life so fascinating that her daughter Beatrice tried to rewrite history.

Lyric, Hammersmith, The Animals and Children took to the Streets

discovering the world anew and how we experience it differently, wherever we are. Age 2-5.

26 March – 28 April The Polar Bears Go, Go, Go! Join the two very loveable but slightly hapless Polar Bears on their holiday adventures. Will they ever reach their destination? Or are they just going around in circles? Have your ticket ready, find your seat, fasten your seatbelt and anchors aweigh – take off and go, go, go!

MuSEuMS, GALLERIES AND DAYS OuT

British Library NW1 2DB www.bl.uk/events To 12 May Frendship Before Facebook. How were friends selected, collected and put on display, before the digital era? Explore the Library’s collection of pocket-sized friendship albums – made between the 16th and 19th centuries – full of celebrity autographs, music, miniature paintings and lift-the-flap pictures.

Charles Dickens Museum WC1N 2LX www.dickensmuseum.com Last Sunday of every month Highlighting the Collection.

Drop-in object handling sessions

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake New Wimbledon Theatre SW19 1QG atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre 16-20 April This Swan Lake is perhaps still best known for replacing the female corps-de-ballet with a menacing male ensemble, which shattered conventions, turned tradition upside down and took the dance world by storm. Don’t miss it when it comes to Wimbledon this spring. £13 -61

The Unicorn Theatre SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com To 10 March Icarus. A new take on the classic myth. What can one boy do against injustice? Will he save his father? Will he save himself?

Age 8-12.

To 10 March It’s Hot, It’s Not. This surreal, funny and carefully crafted physical performance explores the weather in all its forms and takes delight in

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Learn to Play Day 23-24 March, FREE event

Swan Lake, New Wimbledon Theatre

Photo: Alan Fletcher

Photo: Johan Persson

throughout the historic interior of 48 Doughty Street. Discover a unique set of Dickensian curiosities from a cheque signed by Dickens, to a beautiful dolls house, an engraved snuff box and even a collection of original props from The Invisible Woman.

production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s Pirates of Penzance. Enjoy an evening of sentimental pirates, blundering policemen, absurd adventures, improbable paradoxes – and realistic women. £28, age 11+.

Foundling Museum Cutty Sark Greenwich rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Throughout March Come aboard to hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past.

Try and outwit the crew in the Sailors’ Challenge game Book now to save 10%

Meet Captain Woodget, the ship’s most daring master; Jock Willis, the man who built Cutty Sark; Nannie, the ship’s figurehead; or the ship’s cook, James Robson, who all have an extraordinary story to tell, follow a family trail or take part in fun workshops. Daily, age 3+.

21-23 March The Pirates of Penzance. To celebrate 150 years since work began on building Cutty Sark, Merry Opera bring an exuberant

40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 9 April Star Baker: House Challenge.

Does the smell of baking make you feel at home? Work with artist Anne Harild to bake biscuits in the shape of fantastical houses, then use them to construct imaginative and inspiring structures. Suitable for age 5+, 11am-12.30pm, 1.152.45pm, 3-4.30pm, free, book a session on the day.

11 April Toy Homes. Thinking about how important homes are as places for children to feel safe and happy, work with artist Anne Harild to make a roll-along home to take with you on your travels. Suitable for age 5+, 11am-12.30pm, 1.152.45pm, 3-4.30pm, free, book a session on the day.

16 April Music for Bedrooms. Get creative

in their composition workshop. Led by composer Charlotte Harding, explore the identities expressed in the bedrooms featured in their exhibition, then create and perform your own musical creation.

Suitable for age 5+, 11am-12.30pm, 1.15-2.45pm, 3-4.30pm, free, book a session on the day.

the natural wonder of a coral reef to the modern marvel of the international space station, travel through history and explore over 70 models made using half a million LEGO® bricks. Build your imagination at the interactive play areas, and don’t miss two special models of Horniman icons, designed especially for the show.

Hampton Court Palace KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace

Throughout March The Magic Garden. Discover something new around every twist and turn in an immersive world populated by mythical beasts, including a 25m dragon! Take the family to become Tudor Knights, besiege the battlements, storm the Tiltyard Towers and explore a mysterious secret grotto. Included in palace admission.

29-31 March Florimania: Embroidered Treasures of Hampton Mother’s Court Palace. This Day Event Mother’s Day weekend, the muchloved Florimania extravaganza will return to the King’s State Apartments, bringing the opulent interiors to life with vibrant floral displays and the sweet scents of spring. This year’s theme is ‘Embroidered treasures of Hampton Court Palace’ and will see the flower arrangements complemented by a variety of historical objects.

Horniman Museum and Gardens SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Throughout March World Gallery. The Horniman’s exciting new gallery, displaying over 3,000 extraordinary objects from around the globe. Free entry.

Throughout March Brick Wonders. Discover amazing wonders from around the world made entirely from LEGO® bricks.

From an ancient Egyptian pyramid to Old London Bridge, and from

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Come aboard the Cutty Sark

London Transport Museum WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Lots going on during the Easter holidays including Singing and Stories and Illustrating London, drop in. FREE. Future Engineers Gallery. Families, young people and ‘big kids’ can get hands-on and have fun exploring the fascinating world of transport engineering in the new Future Throughout March and April London Stories. Visit this new exhibition featuring 100 illustrations celebrating London and revealing some of the fascinating tales of London life past and present. From urban myths, historic events and remarkable characters, to daily lives and adventurous animals, the exhibition offers new insights into the cultural history and heritage of London.

The illustrated stories include the Cross Bones Graveyard, a ghost bus, St Pineapple’s Cathedral, the Faceless Woman of Becontree, and the baffling story of an intrepid rabbit travelling alone on London Underground. It’s quirky, amusing and bizarre!

All ages.

Lyric Hammersmith, Three Little Pigs

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Underbelly Festival

My Shadow and Me, Puppet Barge

Museum of London Docklands

Royal Observatory Greenwich

E14 4AL www.museumoflondon.org.uk/mu seum-london-docklands 16-17 March East End Entertainments.

The Museum of London Docklands has partnered with Comedy Club 4 Kids to offer a free weekend of music, laughs and jokes with special side-splitting workshops designed especially for children.

Enjoy a variety of stand-up comedians, street musicians and captivating craft makers throughout the weekend. Free.

SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory Throughout March Space Safari. Follow the adventures of Ted as he searches the Solar System for the great, big bear in the sky, visiting the Sun, the Moon and the Planets. In collaboration with local schools, music and songs have been developed by Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Age 7 and under, from £5.35.

Weekends in March Young Astronomers Workshop.

Get hands-on in these short drop-in family FREE! workshops themed around space science and exploration, from the most recent discoveries about the Solar System to our latest understanding of the wider universe. The team of Observatory Explainers can answer your burning space questions such as: how big is the Universe and why is Pluto not a planet anymore?

Also if you've always wondered what it takes to become an astronomer - they are the people to ask! 12.45-4.15pm, free, age 7+.

Royal Opera House www.roh.org.uk 17 March and 14 April Mily Sundays. Discover more about opera, ballet and the Royal Opera House in a fun-packed, themed family-friendly day filled with exciting and creative activities.

Ages 3-10 with parents and carers, 11am-3pm.

11 March and 29 April Ballet Dots. Discover the world of ballet through creative, fun and sensory dance workshops for children and adults. Ages 3 months to 5 years in 45-minute, age-block sessions.

Natural History Museum SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Throughout March Whales Beneath the Surface.

A major exhibition exploring the extraordinary life of whales.

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Science Museum SW7 2DD Sciencemuseum.org.uk Throughout March and April Wonderlab: The Statoil Gallery.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic interactive gallery with live demonstrations and an Explainer-

Where is Wally Fun run 17th March

led experience revealing the beauty and wonder in the science and mathematics that shape our lives.

Truly fascinating! £8/£6.

To 6 May The Sun: Living with Our Star.

The sun, its beauty and power have inspired us since the dawn of civilization. Set at the centre of our solar system, its brilliant light shapes our sense of time, our health and our environment. This is the story of humanity’s everchanging relationship with our nearest star. Free for children aged 16 and under.

Tower of London EC3N 4AB www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london Throughout March and April Armoury in Action. A family friendly exhibition revealing the fascinating story of arms and the armoury at the Tower. From shooting arrows and assembling firearms to brandishing swords, a thousand years of history at the Tower is brought to life in this exciting, hands-on experience.

Selected Sundays to 7 April Twilight Tours. Join the Tower’s Yeoman Warders as they lead exclusive tours of the Tower after dark. Take in world famous sights, such as Traitors’ Gate, the scaffold site and the Bloody Tower, and be appalled and amazed by tales of prisoners and past residents, of royal gossip and of the secrets kept within these ancient walls. All ages.

To 31 March Life in the Medieval Palace.

Step back 700 years and enter the Tower of London’s Medieval Palace, home of King Edward I, Hammer of the Scots. Meet characters from the past, including Edward’s new wife and Queen, Margaret of France and enjoy live drama exploring a world of chivalrous knights, troublesome lords and royal prisoners.

V&A Museum of Childhood E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk To 22 April A Pirate’s Life for Me. Developed in collaboration with children, the exhibition’s immersive and playful set design takes its young visitors into an imaginary swashbuckling world of adventure and exploration where they will travel from a moody coastal inn to a tropical treasure island in search of sparkling riches. At its heart a largescale pirate ship inspires learning through active play. This fantastic exhibition is not to be missed!

WWT London Wetland Centre www.wwt.org.uk 27 April Dawn Chorus. Make an early start and enjoy the reserve before daybreak to celebrate international dawn chorus day.

30 April Introduction to Birdsong.

As songbirds declare their territories, learn how to identify birds by song.

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