Families London SW March 2018 issue 274

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TAKE

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OME

South West

IN THIS ISSUE

Easter activities and things to do Plan your child’s next party Prep schools Are we over-testing our children?

Making maths fun

FREE activities

A mine of information!

Issue 274 March 2018

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Contents

Children need to go outdoors. We are blessed with so many parks and commons in South West London, it is easy.

Have you found RHS Wisley down the A3 yet? It is a great place to go; or closer to home, the Wetland Centre in Barnes is fabulous too.

4-5

Local news

6

Families Top Five activities this month

7-17

PREP SCHOOLS • Local schools Open Days • Why happiness matters • News from Prep Schools • Making maths fun

18-23

EDUCATION • How early learning can predict a child’s success • Are we over-testing our children?

24-29

EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 1

31-36 • Families London SW 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.

CHILDCARE • Could Shared Parental Leave work for you?

• Finding the right childcare provider • Your childcare issues solved

39

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

HEALTH What is croup and how to deal with it

40-43

PARTIES Make your child’s birthday one they’ll talk about!

Your local entertainers

44

FREE activities

46-51

What’s On Diary dates Babies and toddlers Drama Museums, Galleries and Days Out Art activities

Families SW|Issue 274 ®

March 2018 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: April 2018 DEADLINE: 1st March 2018 ISSN 1354-9553 All content ©Families SW 2018

• Printed by Ridgeway Press, Wilts • Designed by Shirley Trimmer • 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.

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NEWS

YOUR UNWANTED BABY CLOTHES ARE WANTED

ENJOY DELICIEUSES CRÊPES IN THE HEART OF CHELSEA

Join Jojo Maman Bebe in their initiative “From A Mother To Another”, their recycling charity initiative. The aim is to reduce the shocking levels of clothing waste that ends up in a landfill whilst helping those in need in the UK with distribution via Trussell Trust food banks and thousands of Syrian refugees living in Lebanon. Last year they saved 65,000 pieces of clothing from ending up in landfill.

FAMTA - JoJo Maman Bebe

Bring your good quality baby and children’s clothes in sizes 0-6 years as well as children’s shoes. Kindly put together complete outfits sorted by size, sex and season, with shoes in a separate bag and take them to one of their 87 stores across UK. Collection in stores until 11th March.

Stores in SW3, SW11, SW12, SW15 and SW19, full list of stores here www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk/stores A young girl in a refugee camp in Jordan

Who doesn’t love crêpes? The Families team headed for the Chelsea Creperie for a yummy testing session (such hard work); we can vouch those crêpes are the real thing! Norwegian with smoked salmon & rocket or the classic Suzette or salted caramel, they were all delicieuses! The crêperie is the new project by Darya, a FrancoRussian mum of three, who created Chelsea Swim Spa. It is a lovely coffee place and crêperie with breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Chelsea Crêperie offers sweet and savoury crepes, made fresh in front of you. You can choose from a wide range of choices, including gluten-free crepes, and vegan, artisan coffees and a large variety of cider/beer/sparkling and wine.

240 Fulham Road, SW10 9NA opposite Chelsea & Westminster Hospital. 07988 431229 www.chelseacreperie.co.uk

THERE’S STILL TIME TO BE PART OF ‘WEAR A HAT’ DAY Taking place on Thursday 29th March, this is the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event. Join in the fun as schools and families across the UK get involved to help raise funds for research into brain tumours.

“Wear A Hat Day is a perfect opportunity to bring the whole school together and support this game-changing charity.” – Mr Dan Gross, Deputy Head Curriculum, Beachborough School.

In 2017, families and schools came together alongside other organisations and communities across the UK and helped raise over £300,000 to fund vital research. With your help we can double this in 2018. They are aiming for £600,000, enough to keep a group of researchers funded for a year. Don't worry if Helen and Alfie Wilson, Waddesdon Village School, Wear A you can't make it that day, just choose another! Get your Hat Day 2017 fundraising pack from www.wearahatday.org

INNOVATIVE NEW CYCLE SCHEME Residents in Kensington and Chelsea can take part in an innovative new cycle scheme this spring. ‘Hire to Buyer’ helps people take up cycling by offering them a brand new bike and accessories, plus at least one session with a qualified cycling instructor, for just £20 per month. Now you can get fit, save money and even reduce your carbon footprint. ‘Residents who sign up to the scheme hire the bike and continue the monthly payments until they either decide to return it or the value of the bike has been paid off and it becomes their own,’ said Cllr Gerard Hargreaves, Lead Member for Transport. You’ll even get a full cycle skills training package as part of the scheme, for free! www.rbkc.gov.uk There is also free cycle training offered in Merton borough this year – the 6-week course is open to complete beginners or those wanting to brush up on their road skills.

Find out more at www.cyclinginstructor.com/Merton

4 Families South West • March 2018

DO YOU CARE ABOUT AIR POLLUTION? Did you know that over 1000 schools and nurseries in London are within 150 metres of dangerously polluted roads? If you think your child deserves clean air to breathe then join the grassroots campaigning group Mums for Lungs www.facebook.com/MumsforLungs Formed just nine months ago, they've already had huge success including meeting the London mayor and launching a petition which has attracted over 1500 signatures. Their current campaign involves responding to TFL's consultation on the introduction of a new Ultra Low Emission Zone in the capital. https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/environment/airquality-consultation-phase-3b/ If you'd like to join the group, please contact celeste.hicks@gmail.com

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NEWS

DANCE CLASSES FOR BOYS Boys love to dance! Does yours? Dance Attack and Boys Ballet classes are held on Saturday mornings in Southfields. Dance Attack is the perfect introduction to dance for boys ages 6 – 11. "The boys have so much energy and fun and they really appreciate the opportunity to dance with other boys" said Principal and coach Ben Garner. “Dance Attack classes always start with circuit training and then we do some gymnastics and we cover lots of different dance styles including street dance.”

07884 187913 www.garneracademydance.com

GROOVAROO BABYWEARING DANCE The popular baby-and-you dancing sensation has arrived in London! Having kicked off late last year, they are growing quickly in communities in SW London—Veronika has even been invited on ITV’s Loose Women show! The weekly one hour class teaches you different soul line dances to R‘nB & Hip-hop music. Because you are dancing with your baby, it is perfect to deepen your intimate bond with your baby. While it is not expressly designed as an exercise program, most mums break a sweat and it also keeps your mind sharp.

“Most of all it is pure fun—we simply dance away to cool music and we don’t take ourselves too seriously!”

For more information visit www.groovaroo.com/england or call Veronika on 07708154156.

LAWS ON SMACKING CHANGING New laws are coming into force in the UK relating to smacking children. Currently, it is legal for a parent or carer to smack their own child but only when it amounts to ‘reasonable punishment’, as laid down in the Children Act 2004. What is defined as ‘reasonable punishment’ is a grey area as it is not set out in the law and depends on each individual case.

However, changes are planned in the Scottish and Welsh legal systems which will ban the smacking of children under any circumstances.

This means England will be the only country in Britain where parents will still be able to legally smack their children.

In England it will remain illegal for teachers, nursery staff or care workers to smack a child.

Privately hired carers such as nannies and babysitters may smack, but only if permission has been given by the child’s parents.

For more information visit www.childlawadvice.org.uk

FIRST EVER SPLIT POT BABY FOOD Launched by a local mum these new Mediterranean inspired Stage 3 meals are the answer to weaning mums needing help with pureeing food. The four recipes were only launched last month in their (world first!) split pots, which ensure the nutrients are kept in and the grains keep their texture. The split pots also means parents have the flexibility to mix the grains and the sauce together or keep them separate so the babies can see what they’re getting with each mouthful— something that’s really important as babies develop increased independence and preferences.

COMMUNITY CENTRE GETS THE GREEN LIGHT The new Sands End Arts and Community Centre has been awarded planning approval for its site in South Park, Fulham. The centre will be run by local people for local people, and will include plenty of creative space. Work on the centre has already begun and the new building is scheduled to open in 2019.

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Baby food was sampled and approved by the team over lunch in the office!

Available from Waitrose, Ocado, Tesco and Morrisons RRP £2.79

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FAMILIES TOP FIVE...

Here are our top picks of the best days out for the whole family this March…

EASTER EGG HUNT AND OTHER HOLIDAY FUN Battersea Park Children’s Zoo Battersea Park SW11 4NJ www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk 30 March – 2 April There is always loads of fun to be had at the Children’s Zoo at Easter, and this year you can join in the Easter Egg Search, have an Easter Bunny Day or Chicken and Egg Day, or visit during the very special Bumblebees, Frogs and Hedgehog Days. Usual entrance fees apply, small extra charges apply for some of the activities.

WINNIE-THE-POOH: EXPLORING A CLASSIC V&A Museum Cromwell Road, Knightsbridge SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk To 8 April This exhibition reveals the story behind the creative partnership of A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepard and the phenomenal success and enduring popularity of Winniethe-Pooh. Designed for both Photograph of A. A. Milne and Christopher children and adults, visitors Robin, ca. 1925-1926 will be led on a multi-sensory journey to rediscover these classic books, such as discovering language as a child and inspiring creativity with drawing.

SPECIAL FORCES: IN THE SHADOWS

HORRIBLE HISTORIES: MORE BEST OF BARMY BRITAIN! Museum of London EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk 18 March To celebrate the museum’s horrible new display, Fatberg, this spectacularly hideous show highlights some of London’s truly gross past… We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for a special onehour production of Horrible Histories featuring more of your favourite characters from our barmy past. Clap along with crazy King Charles, vomit with the vile Victorians and prepare to do battle in the frightful First World War. It’s history with the nasty bits left in. 1.30-2.30pm and 45pm, age 5+, free.

6 Families South West • March 2018

National Army Museum Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk From 17 March Discover the elite training and extreme skills needed to make the cut as this exhibition explores the operations our Special Forces have undertaken around the world over the past 70 years. A wonderful new exhibition at this completely refurbished museum, perfect for all ages and especially for families with curious youngsters. From £4.

A Chinook lowering an SBS Rigid Raider boat into the sea

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(c) National Portrait Gallery

Kew Gardens, Kew, Surrey www.kew.org 30 March – 15 April Join Peter Rabbit and all his furry friends on a botanical bunny adventure this Easter. Visitors can expect an exciting activity-packed day out with games, crafts and storytelling inspired by Beatrix Potter’s iconic tales. Follow a Peter Rabbit trail to find activity pop-ups, then take a trip to Mr McGregor’s potting shed and plant your very own seeds to take home and nurture. Around the festival hub, children will also be able to get stuck into all sorts of giant food card Benjamin Bunny games, while the hilarious veggie consequences workshop will offer the chance to create incredible monster vegetables.

Credit 'Beatrix Potter Frederick Warne & Co

ENJOY A BIG DAY OUT WITH PETER RABBIT

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Call to book your place NOW

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS 2018 Compiled by Joanna Parry

SW1 ST MATTHEW’S SCHOOL 3-11 Co-Ed Visits by arrangement throughout March 020 7504 0500 www.stmwschool.org.uk

MORE HOUSE SCHOOL 11-18 Girls Visits by arrangement in March 020 7235 2855 www.morehouse.org.uk

SW4 EATON HOUSE THE MANOR 8-13 Boys Open Morning 7/3 9-10.30am 020 7924 6000 www.eatonhouseschools.com

HYDE PARK SCHOOL

PEREGRINES PRE-PREP

4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 21/3 11am, or the school offers showrounds on Wednesday and Friday mornings 020 7225 3131 www.hydeparkschool.co.uk

3-8 G & B Open Day 28/4 10-12pm 020 8992 5189 www.peregrinespreprep.co.uk MERLIN SCHOOL 4-8 Co-Ed Open Days 9/3 and 11/5, book in advance 020 8788 2769 www.merlinschool.net

SW10 REDCLIFFE SCHOOL

SW16

3-11 Co-Ed Tours Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout March 9.30am booking required 020 7352 9247 www.redcliffeschool.com

STREATHAM AND CLAPHAM HIGH SCHOOL 11-18 Girls Open Morning 9/3

SW11

ALLEN EDWARDS PRIMARY

THE DOMINIE

4-11 Co-Ed Open Days TBC in March, booking required or call school to arrange alternative date 020 7622 3985 www.allenedwards.co.uk

6-11 Co-Ed Tours by appointment Please contact the school to find out more about their specialist teaching for dyslexic children 020 7720 8783 www.thedominie.co.uk

PARKGATE HOUSE SCHOOL 2.5-11 Co-Ed Open Day 9/6 9.30am-12pm 020 7350 2461 www.parkgate-school.co.uk

OLIVER HOUSE SCHOOL 3-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 14/3 10am-12pm 020 8772 1911 www.oliverhouse.org.uk

9.15-10.45am register online 020 8677 8400 www.schs.gdst.net

THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE 11-16 Co-Ed Open Mornings 8/3 and 25/4 11am-1pm 020 7228 3933 www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

SW18 THE ROCHE SCHOOL 2.5-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 2/3, 11/5 and 13/6 9.15-11.15am call to make an appointment on 020 8877 0823 www.therocheschool.co.uk

PARK HOUSE SCHOOL / TRAM HOUSE SCHOOL 4-19 Co-Ed Open days 22/3 and 19/4 1-3pm 020 3031 9707 / 9700 www.beyondautismschools.org.uk

SW12 SW6

LONDON STEINER SCHOOL

FULHAM PREP SCHOOL

4-11 Co-Ed Weekly school tours by appointment every Wednesday at 9am 020 8772 3504 www.waldorflondon.co.uk

4-13 Co-Ed Pre-Prep Open Morning 13/3 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

SW19 THE STUDY PREP SCHOOL

HORNSBY HOUSE SCHOOL

4-11 Girls Open Day 3/3 9am-12pm, plus Tours on Tuesdays throughout March 9.20-10.30am 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk

4-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 8/3 and 7/6 9am 020 8673 7573 www.hornsbyhouse.org.uk

WILLINGTON INDEPENDENT PRIMARY SCHOOL

PARSONS GREEN PREP

WHITE HOUSE PREP SCHOOL

4-11 Co-Ed Midweek tours on Thursdays at 9am by appointment only 020 7371 9009 www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

4-11 Co-Ed Open day 21/04 9.30-11.30am Call to book 020 8674 9514 www.whitehouseschool.com

4-13 Boys Tours of the school by appointment 020 8944 7020 www.willingtonschool.co.uk

SINCLAIR HOUSE 2-13 Co-Ed Prep School Open Morning 15/3 10-11.30am, Montessori Nursery Open Morning 16/3 9.30-11am 0207 736 9182 www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

L’ECOLE DES PETITS 4-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 1/3, 8/3, 15/3 and 22/3 0207 371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk

SW7 THE HAMPSHIRE SCHOOL 3-13 Co-Ed Tours of main school on Wednesdays at 9am and of Early Years School on Mondays and Thursdays at 1.30pm 020 7352 7077 www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk

ST NICHOLAS PREP SCHOOL 2-10 Co-Ed Open Morning 10/5 9.30am, plus Open House every Wednesday and Thursday during term time 9.30-10.30am book in advance 020 7591 2630 www.stnicholasprep.co.uk

SW13 THE HARRODIAN SCHOOL 4-18 Co-Ed 11+ Open Morning March TBC, plus regular tours during term time 020 8762 6321 www.harrodian.com

SW14 TOWER HOUSE PREP SCHOOL 4-13 Boys Open Morning 11/5 9.15am 020 8876 3323 www.thsboys.org.uk

SW15

WIMBLEDON COMMON PREP (also known as Squirrels) 4-7 Boys Open Morning 16/5 9.15-11am, go to website to make a booking. 020 8946 1001 www.wimbledoncommonprep.co.uk

WIMBLEDON HIGH SCHOOL 11-18 Girls Junior School (4+ and 7+ entry) 2/5, Senior School (11+) Open Mornings 21/3, 28/3 and 18/4, Sixth Form Open Evening 22/5 020 8971 0900 www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net

KINGS COLLEGE SCHOOL 7-16 Boys, 16-18 Co-Ed Junior School (7+ to 10+ entry) Open Morning 22/6 9.30am-12pm, Senior School (11+ entry) Open Evening 11/6 6pm, 16+ Entry Open Evening 13/6 6pm 020 8255 5437 www.kcs.org.uk

IBSTOCK PLACE SCHOOL 3-18 Co-Ed The Prep School Open Mornings 2/5 and 20/6 9.30am, The Senior School Open Evening 9/5 5-7pm (for prospective entry in 2019) booking required 020 8876 9991 / 020 8392 5803 www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk

GRANARD PRIMARY SCHOOL 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning in March TBC call to book a place 020 8788 3606 www.granardprimary.co.uk

SW20 THE NORWEGIAN SCHOOL Co-Ed 3-16 Open 21/4 12-2pm, or tours any time 8947 6617 www.norwegianschool.org.uk

W6 RAVENSCOURT PARK PREP SCHOOL

PUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL

4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 6/3 9am, booking necessary 020 8846 9153 www.rpps.co.uk

FRANCISCAN PRIMARY SCHOOL

4-18 Girls 11+ Open Day 9/3 9am 020 8788 4886 www.putneyhigh.gdst.net

SE22

4-11 Co-Ed Reception and Nursery Schools Tours throughout March 9.15am 020 8672 3048 www.franciscan.wandsworth.sch.uk

FALCONS SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

JAMES ALLEN’S GIRLS’ SCHOOL

7-11 Girls Scholarship Day 17/3 9-10.30am 020 8992 5189 www.falconsgirls.co.uk

4-18 Girls Tours Wednesday mornings by appointment. 020 8693 1181 www.jags.org.uk

EATON HOUSE BELGRAVIA PREP 8-13 Boys Open Evening 14/3 6-8pm 020 7924 6000 www.eatonhouseschools.com

We take every care preparing this info, but things can change, so do please check with schools or websites before setting out.

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Families South West 9

10 Families South West • March 2018

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PREP SCHOOLS

Parsons Green Prep in a football tournament at Cranleigh Prep School

PREP SCHOOL TEAMS UP WITH CHELSEA FC FOUNDATION Parsons Green Prep School recently teamed up with the Chelsea FC Foundation to provide high-quality football coaching to boys and girls across all year groups at the school. It’s a first among prep schools in Fulham and it has turned out to be a massive hit with children and parents alike. The Foundation was formed in 2010 and provides outstanding coaches who are experienced, highly qualified, passionate, knowledgeable and enthusiastic about football, the most played sport across all schools worldwide.

The children have sessions with the coaches twice a week at Hurlingham Park, as well as after-school clubs three days a week for all age groups on the school’s own Astroturf pitch. The children are learning various ball skills in passing and dribbling and playing small-sided games. The coaches also attend curriculum games lessons for Key Stage 2 and a few children were invited to train with the Chelsea FC Foundation squad at one of their coaching centres. These children were then coached and checked on regularly to monitor their progress, with a view to advancing to academy level.

Through the Foundation Parsons Green Prep has also been invited to two tournaments at Cranleigh Prep School with ex-Chelsea and England international Graeme Le Saux, where they had fantastic days out and picked up silver medals in 2017. The school also fielded a girls’ Under-11 squad at a recent ISA tournament at LVS Ascot. It was the girls’ first-ever competition and they ended up winning the U11 category.

PGP’s head of sport, Mr Will, is busy building on this big improvement in the children’s footballing ability and interest. ‘This is fast-track learning in how to approach the mental, physical and emotional side of the sport,’ he says. ‘Operating as a team, communicating clearly, being responsible, increasing assertiveness, improving fitness and learning a good attitude around how to win and how to lose together—these are all life skills that do not just apply to football.’ And the future of the scheme is looking very bright, with plans to run a tournament supported by the Chelsea FC Foundation on the cards. www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

DO YOU THINK PRIVATE SCHOOL IS NOT AN OPTION FOR YOUR CHILD? Choosing a school for your child can feel both exciting and a little daunting, since the range and complexity of that choice can be so broad, that it may seem overwhelming at first. ‘Where do I start?’ May be the first question you ask yourself when embarking on your journey to choose the right school for your child. Finton House School, an independent mixed ability school for boys and girls from 4-11, would advise not to dismiss the option of a private education for your child even though you may not be able to meet the cost of school fees. Twelve bright and talented children have already passed through Finton House School, who have been offered a bursary of up to 100% of the school fees. If you know a child who would benefit from a bursary place at Finton, please ask them to contact the Registrar at Finton House School: admissions@fintonhouse.org.uk

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12 Families South West • March 2018

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PREP SCHOOLS

SOME NEWS FROM YOUR LOCAL PREP SCHOOLS

HELP FOR ‘CHILDREN WITH CANCER’ This year, The White House Prep School in Balham has chosen Children with Cancer as their school charity. Based in Great Ormond Street, Children with Cancer is providing vital research into cancers most commonly found in children, including leukaemia. Gemma, from the Children with Cancer team, visited the White House Prep this term to talk to the pupils about their amazing research and to encourage them with different fundraising ideas. The White House Prep children behaved wonderfully and were very mature about this sensitive subject and are now busy thinking of ways they can raise money, including a bake sale and a fun run in the playground.

The White House Preparatory School, www.whitehouseschool.com Open day on the 21st April 9.30-11.30am

PERMANENT HEAD ANNOUNCED FOR PARSONS GREEN PREP Tim Cannell, formerly head at The Prebendal School in Chichester, West Sussex, has been appointed the permanent headmaster at Parsons Green Prep in Fulham, London. Tim started at PGP in September 2017 and was covering Mrs Helen Stavert’s maternity leave.

Tim comments: ‘I am privileged to be offered the opportunity to lead Parsons Green Prep on a permanent basis. It is a gem of a school with superb facilities and a large outdoor space. Most importantly, PGP allows children to enjoy their childhood whilst offering a first-class education, preparing them for a wide selection of top London schools and beyond. … I firmly believe that schools should be places that put the pastoral welfare at their heart as if children feel happy and secure they will rise to the challenges that are put before them and have the courage to explore the many new opportunities that PGP has to offer.’

Parsons Green Prep School, Fulham Park Road. www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

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Falcons competition winners with Headmistress (right), Mrs Sophia Ashworth-Jones

FALCONS SCHOOL FOR GIRLS CREATIVE HEALTH-KICK Falcons School for Girls has hosted a series of innovative nutrition focused activities, as part of an awareness programme for living a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Girls at the school really enjoyed designing a healthy three course meal including a starter, a main meat dish and main vegetarian dish, before their culinary delights were put forward to a panel of judges.

Head of Sport, Amber Walters commented: “Encouraging balanced, nutritional eating amongst our girls is incredibly important to us here at Falcons School for Girls. A healthy lifestyle aids a healthy mind, something that can help them in achieving their best academically.” Falcons School for Girls is one of London’s Leading Independent Preparatory Schools and is part of the prestigious Alpha Plus Group. The school offers an optimal learning environment and has specialist facilities for Science, Mathematics, Art, Drama and Dance. Leadership can be seen at every level of the school contributing to a cherishing and challenging culture.

Falcons School for Girls Putney, www.falconsgirls.co.uk Scholarship Day 17th March call 020 8992 5189.

TECHNOLOGY GOOD FOR LEARNING Recent research indicates that a staggering 96% of teachers believe technology has had a positive impact on the way children participate and learn in a lesson, whilst 56% believe that pupils are more engaged when technology is used, according to a survey conducted by Smoothwall.com, a web filtering provider for schools.

An impressive 86% of teachers also say that technology has made them perform better and prepare more varied and exciting lessons. And parents are on board too. A survey conducted by The Knowledge Academy shows that 91% of parents believe technology is making it easier for them to be involved with their child’s education and 68% say that technology has increased their ability to help children with school work.

However, there are some concerns. At least a third of teachers are worried about using technology in class because they cannot control what each child is doing whist it is being used. A similar number of parents also think that children already have too much access to technology and don’t need it at school.

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Please use the code FAMSWMAR18 to receive ÂŁ15 off your registration

14 Families South West • March 2018

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PREP SCHOOLS

One in 10 children experience a mental health difficulty by age 11

WHY HAPPINESS MATTERS Happiness matters more than we might realize. It is actually crucial to our children’s physical and mental health as well as their resiliency in the face of obstacles and crises. We asked Eaton House The Manor to explain what they do to maximise wellbeing for all the Pre-Prep and Prep children in their care.

Recently, the Duchess of Cambridge launched the Mentally Healthy Schools initiative by organisation Heads Together to support mental wellbeing. Because 5-11 February 2018 was also Children’s Mental Health Week in which we encouraged children, young people and adults to celebrate their uniqueness, it seems a good time to talk about the importance of the ‘happiness factor’ which is one of the key concerns at Eaton House Schools.

those who are already vulnerable. Changes often act as triggers: moving home or school or the birth of a new brother or sister, for example.

Some children who start school feel excited about making new friends and doing new activities, but there may also be some who feel anxious about entering a new environment. “At Eaton House The Manor we aim to provide all-inclusive pastoral care,” says Mrs Segrave. “We have a buddy system and a house system of peers to make sure every child feels part of something and supported. And, most importantly, an over-arching structure of supportive teachers who make sure that no child falls through the cracks.”

The heads at Eaton House The Manor, which includes a Nursery, together with Pre-Prep, Prep and Girls’ schools, agree with the recent campaign for Mental Health Week—as The website www.mentallyhealthyschools.org.uk launched Mrs Nicola Borthwick, Headmistress the campaign says, it is all about #BeingOurselves. That is an of the Pre-Prep School where by the Duchess of Cambridge, will provide especially important message for children join aged 4, also agrees that a resource for teachers and schools, to help them children at all stages of their school happiness is one of the most talk to children about issues from bereavement, to career. “When we have a positive important things for any school to anxiety, to eating disorders. view of ourselves it can help us to prioritise. “To make a child feel cope with life’s challenges. happier in a school setting there are Recognising the different qualities of others can allow us to connect with various strategies you can prioritise,” she says. “The first, and in many those around us which is vital for our own and others’ wellbeing,” ways the most important, is to try to make children as independent as says Mrs Sarah Segrave, Headmistress of Eaton House The Manor possible. This means everything from letting children make some Prep School. decisions to practising getting dressed and helping around the home.”

Mrs Segrave feels that a school is not a building, a curriculum or a timetable but, rather, a place where children grow intellectually and emotionally, guided by teachers who are determined that, on their watch, children succeed and are happy. In her view, an outstanding education is one where teachers are emotionally connected with their pupils and where the relationships between staff, teachers and pupils are bound in a common sense of purpose. “Knowing the boys, sharing their highs and lows, being there for them in every way is of prime importance to us.

Pastoral care is intrinsic in all we do; the fundamental cornerstone of Eaton House The Manor.” Most things that happen to children don’t lead to mental health problems, but traumatic events can trigger problems for

Skills such as good pencil control, table manners and using a knife and fork properly will stand them in good stead, as will “having a positive chat about all that school will entail and what an adventure it will be,” says Mrs Borthwick. Her best advice to parents with boys starting at the Pre-Prep is to “Come to the pupil teas and establish contacts with other parents and teachers, because it’s great to build an early friendship network.”

Other tools that can help to make early school experience better are “limiting ‘tech time’ to avoid overload, using positive thinking and chat, exploring mindfulness and breathing techniques and yoga,” she says. “The app ‘Smiling Minds’ can also be helpful.”

Eaton House The Manor, 58 Clapham Common Northside, London, SW4 9RU www.eatonhouseschools.com

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Families South West 15

16 Families South West • March 2018

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PREP SCHOOLS

Making maths fun

By Kjartan Poskitt

I always say that maths is like broccoli. You either like it or you hate it but you have to have some because it’s good for you. Now I’ll tell you a secret. I do not like broccoli, but I do find it helps to have a bit of brown sauce on it! Similarly, maths becomes more exciting when it’s spiced up a little.

It’s important that your children are comfortable enough with simple sums that they don’t have to rely on a calculator—that’s like using arm bands for swimming! If they can develop an instinct for numbers, simple sums become much easier. The secret is to spend some time playing around with numbers and getting to know them.

Here are a few little facts, games and tricks to share with your children to help them see that numbers have quirky behaviours and make fun patterns.

TRICK 1 If you write out the digits 1 2 3 4, you can turn them into 12 = 3 x 4.

You can also do this with 5 6 7 8 because 56 = 7 x 8.

TRICK 2 Pick any three consecutive numbers (e.g. 4, 5, 6). Multiply the smallest by the biggest, and then add one. (So here we get 4 x 6 =24, then 24 + 1 = 25). The answer is always the same as the middle number squared … i.e. times by itself. (Here we get 5 x 5 = 25 YAY!) This works with any three consecutive numbers, so let’s try 7, 8, 9. 7 x 9 = 63, then 63 + 1= 64 and that’s the same as 8 x 8!

TRICK 3 The numbers in the 3 times table have a special trick, because if you add the digits together, the answer will always divide by 3. For instance 8 x 3 =24, and 2 + 4 = 6 which divides by 3. You can use this to test if any number divides by 3. Let’s test 71865. 7+1+8+6+5 = 27 which divides by 3, so 71865 also divides by 3.

TRICK 4 Prime numbers are numbers which will only divide by themselves and 1.

For example, 7 is a prime number because nothing else divides into it; 8 is not a prime number because 4 x 2 = 8.

Place seven playing cards in a pile face down with the bottom card as a joker. Choose a magic number less than 7. (Let’s say you choose 4).

One by one slide a card off the top and put it back on the bottom. When you get to the 4th card, turn it face up and then put it to the bottom of the pack. Keep doing this, turning every 4th card face up. The last card to be turned over will be the joker! Try this trick again picking a different

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magic number – eg 5. It will always work! What’s more you can have any prime number of cards, so try the trick with 5, 11, 13 or even 17 cards!

The magic number can be any number smaller than the number of cards.

THE TABLE ATTACK GAME Try to play this game with your children regularly in short bursts of about 10 minutes. You need two or more people and a pack of playing cards.

Remove the jacks, queens and kings from the pack and put them back in the box. Now take the aces, twos, fives and tens from the pack, and just one joker. The aces count as one and the joker counts as zero. Put the other cards aside for a moment. We’ll call these the power cards.

Shuffle the 17 normal cards then put the pack face down. Two players each take a card from the top without looking and then together they turn their cards face-up. Players must multiply the numbers on the cards together, and the first person to shout the right answer wins a point.

Make sure you are multiplying and not adding! (So if you see 5 and 1, the answer is five not six.)

NOW MAKE IT MORE EXCITING! Without looking, pick a couple of the power cards and slip them in with the others, then play again. Once you’ve got used to the extra cards, keep adding a few more power cards until you have all the cards in play.

This is a fabulous, quick fire way to get your children to firm up on their times tables.

THE DICE CHALLENGE Throw three dice, but don’t let anyone else see how they land. Tell everybody what the three numbers add to, and also what they multiply to make. Who can work out the numbers on the dice?

So, for example, if the three dice add to 9 and multiply to make 12, what are the three numbers?

Answer: 1, 2, 6.

There – I hope some of these things help. And just to make you feel better, while you’re practising your numbers, I’m going to go off and eat some broccoli!

Kjartan Poskitt is author of the series of books Murderous Maths, published by Scholastic. He is also the Ambassador for the National Young Mathematicians’ Awards, the only team maths competition for primary schools in the country, run by Explore Learning in collaboration with the NRICH project at the University of Cambridge.

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18 Families South West • March 2018

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EDUCATION

Are we over-testing our children?

There is a feeling among many that the tests children are required to take at primary school in England are overly complex and a source of “unnecessary” pressure on children at too young an age. On the contrary, the Government says testing is an important part of ensuring that children master the basics of reading, writing and mathematics early on.

THE RECEPTION BASELINE TEST It is proposed by the Government that reception pupils will face a “baseline assessment” when entering school from the year 2020. The test is intended to take place during the first six weeks of school and to provide a baseline measure to track your child’s progress during the primary school years. It probably won't be a formal "test,” rather an assessment done over a period of time. The Government has said that if the Reception baseline is introduced, then key stage 1 tests will be scrapped.

THE YEAR 1 PHONICS SCREENING CHECK Taken by all children in Year 1 in June, this test is meant to demonstrate how well your child can use the phonics skills they’ve learned up to the end of Year 1 and to identify children who need extra phonics help. The check consists of 20 real words and 20 pseudo-words that a pupil reads aloud to the teacher. The assessment usually takes between four and nine minutes per child. Children should not realise that they are being formally assessed and the exercise should be perceived by the child to be part of their everyday phonics activities.

THE YEAR 2 KEY STAGE 1 SAT Key Stage 1 SAT take place at the end of Year 2 in May. They consist of six tests in total, four of which are compulsory for your school to administer and two of which were optional in 2017. You should check with your school as to whether it will be running the optional tests in 2018.

and the results are used to measure the school’s performance via Ofsted reporting and published league tables.

Reading Test requires your child to answer questions on passages of text. The test lasts one hour.

Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling Test consists of two parts: a grammar and punctuation paper requiring short answers, lasting 45 minutes, and an aural spelling test of 20 words, lasting around 15 minutes.

Maths Test 1 Arithmetic takes 30 minutes and children have to give the correct answer to calculations, including long multiplication and division.

Maths Tests 2 and 3 Reasoning requires children to answer questions in two separate tests designed to measure problem solving and reasoning skills with number, measures, geometry and statistics. Children have 40 minutes to complete each paper.

MARKING OF KEY STAGE 1 AND 2 SATS Children are given a score that is “scaled” across the whole country so the average score nationally is fixed at 100. This means if your child has a "scaled score" higher than 100 they are doing better than average and if it is below 100 it means they need more support. For KS1 SATs you won't receive your child's actual SATs scores unless you ask for them, but you will be told whether your child is working at the “expected standard”.

CATs

THE YEAR 6 KEY STAGE 2 SAT

Children aren’t required to take any formal tests between the end of Year 2 (KS1 SAT) and the end of Year 6 (KS2 SAT) but schools still have to assess achievement and attainment. In many schools, this takes the form of ongoing teacher assessments or internal tests, but some primary schools opt to use formal tests called CATs (cognitive abilities tests) instead. CATs are used to give a snapshot of a child's potential, what they could achieve and how they learn best. CATs focus on a child’s natural cognitive ability by assessing verbal reasoning processes using words, quantitative tests looking at the same processes but using numbers and symbols and non-verbal tests looking again at reasoning processes but using shapes and figures. CATs are not statutory tests set by the Government and have no bearing on school league tables.

At the end of Year 6, children sit tests in reading, maths, spelling, punctuation and grammar. These tests are both set and marked externally

For more information visit www.gov.uk and www.theschoolrun.com

The tests will be in your child's usual classroom, with their usual teacher.

Children will be grouped in small groups or sometimes as a whole class and they will not be seated in an exam style arrangement so it’s quite possible your child will not even realise they are being tested. The tests are not strictly timed, as they are not intended to assess your child’s ability to work at speed but each usually lasts around 30 minutes. Although the tests are set externally, they are marked by teachers within the school.

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20 Families South West • March 2018

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OAK TREE DAY NURSERY 3 months to 5 years

8 am to 6 pm (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 * 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

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Families South West 21

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

Christ Church Street French Nursery We are a bilingual nursery and all parents are welcome whether or not they are French. All the staff are qualified and 70% of the staff speak French; children learn French every day.

The nursery is a warm and happy place for any child to be part of our family.

Children from 1 year old are welcome.

Incorporating art, cooking, music, sport, languages, drama, yoga and all aspects of the Early Years Curriculum. Please arrange a visit to see the learning and excitement in action. www.oaktreenurseryschool.co.uk Ramsden Hall, 21 Ramsden Road, Balham, SW12 8QX Tel: 020 8166 5932

3 Caversham Street, SW3 4AF 020 7351 9648 and 07530 825528 Lindaccsfn@gmail.com www.frenchnursery.co.uk

22 Families South West • March 2018

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EDUCATION

SOME ATING FASCIN !

INFO

How early learning can predict a child’s success

By Dr Robert Titzer

You may be surprised to learn that the long term effects of children learning language and maths skills at an early age is one of the greatest predictors of their financial success as adults. How can this be possible you may ask? With the many confounding variables such as a child’s IQ, formal education and socio-demographic background, it’s hard to believe that early reading or maths skills can be one of the most important factors associated with doing well as an adult.

However, a 2013 study from the University of Edinburgh1 shows that early maths and reading abilities have major long-term benefits. Children who performed better in reading and maths tests at age 7 were shown to be more likely to earn higher wages later in life according to researchers.

Children who had advanced by just one grade level in reading by age 7 earned an average of £5,000 per year more at age 42 than their classmates.

The study also concluded that “mathematical and reading ability at age 7 are substantially and positively correlated with financial success at age 42, independently of relevant confounding variables.” In other words, it was the actual reading and maths abilities at age 7—not just the child’s socioeconomic status, the child’s IQ, or other factors—that had a lasting impact on the person’s life chances.

UNDERSTANDING WORDS Research consistently indicates that the earlier a child learns language skills, the better the long term outcome.

A well-known study in 19952 found that the number of words spoken to a child by age 3 was a better predictor of a child’s vocabulary at age 11 than the parents’ IQs, parents’ socio-economic status, or which school the child attended.

A more recent study on the topic found that babies who learned more words by 18 months of age had greater vocabularies at age 3. In addition, the researchers found that 18-month-old babies who knew more words had faster brain processing speed. The study also concluded that the “language gap” that exists by 18 months of age would be hard to overcome, meaning that babies who had been taught fewer words in the first 18 months of life could have later delays in learning language skills3.

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EARLY READING AND MATHS SKILLS Reading problems at an early age are hard to counter-act later on in life.

Very few children who cannot read at the appropriate level at the end of first grade ever catch up.

There are also significant advantages in learning to read early. Studies back in the 1960s concluded that children who were taught to read at ages 3 or 4 read better than children of the same IQ who were taught at ages 5 or 6. Those with the same IQs who were taught at ages 7 or 8 were even farther behind. Six years later, the children who were taught to read earlier were still ahead of the same-IQ children who were taught later. In addition, the earlier the child was taught to read, the more likely the child enjoyed reading.

Parental involvement in teaching children about reading and writing words is also related to the development of early literacy skills. In turn, early literacy skills directly predict word reading at the end of first grade (age 67 years) and indirectly predict reading in third grade (age 8-9 years). Word reading at the end of first grade predicts reading comprehension in third grade.

So, if you are wondering how to give your infant a head start in life, it’s worth investigating the resources available to help you teach little ones language and maths skills as early as possible. You can read my tips at www.yourbabycanlearn.com Dr Robert Titzer is an Infant Researcher and expert speaker at The Baby Show returning to London ExCeL 2nd – 4th March 2018 (www.thebabyshow.co.uk)

1. Ritchie, S. J. & Bates, T. C., (2013). Enduring Links From Childhood Mathematics and Reading Achievement to Adult Socioeconomic Status. Psychological Science.

2. Hart, B. & Risley, T., (1995). Meaningful Differences in Everyday Parenting and Intellectual Development in Young American Children. Baltimore: Brookes.

3. Fernald, A., Marchman, V. A. & Weisleder, A., (2012). SES differences in language processing skill and vocabulary are evident at 18 months. Developmental Science.

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EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 1

Let them have first hand experiences in nature

Chelsea Young Writers

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.

SPARK4KIDS

Compiled by Joanna Parry

ARTS AND CRAFTS EDDIE CATZ Putney, Wimbledon and Earlsfield First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street SW15 1SF 42 Station Road SW19 2LP 279 Magdalen Road SW18 3NZ 0203 4755268 eddiecatz.com Throughout Easter Holidays Holiday Activities Across the 3 branches in SW London – Putney, 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.

LITTLE HOUSE OF SCIENCE Imperial College, Kensington SW7 2AZ 0800 092 1062, info@littlehouseofscience.com www.littlehouseofscience.com 3-5, 10-12 and 17-19 April Easter Science Lab: Physics, Chemistry or Geology Little House of Science invites the Little and Young Scientists to explore the fascinating world of Physics, Chemistry or Geology on these fascinating Easter camps. Handson, project based holiday camps, Tuesdays – Thursdays 10am-3pm, age 4-13, £240 per child, sibling discounts apply.

PAINT POTS EASTER FUN Paint Pots, St Mary The Boltons, The Boltons SW10 9TB www.paintpotshouse.com 26-29 March Arts, crafts, music, games and other seasonal activities, age 3-6, 9.30am-12.30pm £45, 9.30am3.30pm £65.

Venue TBC 020 8090 1444 www.spark4kids.com See website for dates Easter Coding Workshops Workshops introducing children to Computer Coding, Minecraft Modding, Robotics, Games Design, Python, HTML/CSS and JavaScript in a fun, engaging environment.

Ages 5-7 years, and 8+.

Touch typing courses for children aged 7+, classes are 90 minutes long, £250 for the week. Classes are mixed age and ability. Sibling discounts available, 9.30-11am or 11.30am-1pm.

YELLOWBIRD EDUCATION Parsons Green Prep School, 1 Fulham Park Road SW6 4LJ 020 7731 0695 / 07790 912318 www.yellowbirdeducation.com 3-6 April and 9-14 April Easter Creative Writing Workshops 4 or 5-day workshops exploring creative writing techniques, times vary, from £349.

Book online.

UNLOCK LEARNING

Paint Pots arts and crafts at Easter

DEVELOPING SKILLS NAOMI MARTIN TOUCH TYPING Sinclair House School, 59 Fulham High Street SW6 3JJ 07949 204553, www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk 26-29 March, 3-6 April and 913 April Touch Typing Courses

Kingston University, Penrhyn Road Campus, KT1 2ET Call Emma 07887 570997 www.unlocklearning.org.uk 3-6 and 9-12 April Easter Courses Transform learning with technology. These clubs use a combination of technology, games and traditional teaching methods. Tech+ Course helps dyslexic children read, write, spell and type, 9.30am-11am, age 8-12. Typing+ Course is a typing course which also covers useful Word tips. 11.30am-1pm, age 816. £200 per place, sibling discounts available.

ROLE MODELS

Develop resilience and confidence with Role Models (fab course!)

24 Families South West • March 2018

Chelsea SW10 0AB 020 3637 7107 www.rolemodels.me 9-13 April Easter Confidence & Resilience Course All of their courses focus on the importance of developing what are defined as ‘life and career skills’ and ‘learning and innovation skills’. This course includes team- building exercises, interview skills, debating and public speaking. They focus on developing a growth mindset and the key ‘soft’ skills required to thrive at school, at home and in life ahead. Cost is £395, age 8-12, 10am-3pm.

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EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 1 CHELSEA YOUNG WRITERS St John's Notting Hill Church W11 2NN 020 3773 5381 www.chelseayoungwriters.co.uk 3-13 April Create original stories at this two-week Easter programme, with classes including: art-inspired workshops (8-12 years), 5-day intensive 'Steampunk adventure' course (8-12 years), 11+ English preparation course (Year 5) and ‘My First Story’ workshops for young (6-7 years) story makers.

All workshops and courses are designed to inspire creative and critical thinking in a fun, smallgroup environment. 10am-1pm

FIRST HAND EXPERIENCES Jesse Mylne Education Centre, Fulham Palace, Bishop's Avenue SW6 6EA 01843 652833 www.firsthandexperiences.co.uk April 3rd - 6th & 9th - 13th Easter Holiday Day Camps, 3-5 and 6-11.

Outdoor Exploration: Pond dip, forage for food, build a fire, paint

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bluebells, hunt for bugs, craft a giant bird’s nest and build a junk orchestra to beat the sound of spring!

Whole Food Adventures: Freshly prepared picnic lunches and daily cooking sessions included.

Create and Celebrate: This week sees us assemble and play our own junk orchestra showcased for parents at Friday’s show. £300 per week (sibling £270).

Daily £65 (£55) including all food and activities

Performing arts camp at Stagecoach Battersea

EXCEPTIONAL ACADEMICS

LANGUAGES

info@exceptionalacademics.com or 020 3002 3770 www.exceptionalacademics.com 2 –6 April Easter Revision Week for 11+, 13+ & GCSE. “ After the initial assessment, Dara explained to us our son's strongest and weakest areas. She tailored her teaching totally accordingly to ensure his weak areas were addressed immediately.” BE, Battersea

ET PATATI PATATA

Learning French is fun!

Thomas’ Academy, Parsons Green SW7 07966 893674, caroline@etpatatipatata.com www.etpatatipatata.com Throughout Easter Holidays Fun French Day Camp Join the award winning French immersion programme and learn French without leaving London. Fun activities including French music, art, and patisserie, French coding, French musical, sport…it’s all 100% French fun! Age 4-13, 9am-3pm

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EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 1

Learn tennis with award winning All Star Tennis

Fulham Football Club Academy Easter courses

ALPINE FRENCH SCHOOL

FUNKY MONKEY KEYBOARD CLASSES

STAGECOACH BATTERSEA

Streatham, Balham, Herne Hill, Beckenham 01732 457100, mail@funkymonkey.info www.funkymonkey.info Dates in March and April TBC Funky ‘One Hit Wonder’ Taster Days Leave your little ones in their creative hands for fun-filled music workshops for 4-8 yr old beginner musicians, introducing them to the electronic keyboard, how it works, and how to start reading and writing music too, 10am-2pm, £40/£35 sibling discount.

Northcote Lodge, Bolingbroke Grove SW11 6EL 07956 288928 www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea 10-13 April Easter Holiday Performing Arts Camp 4 fabulous days of dance, acting and singing. Brilliant musical theatre fun with experienced theatre practitioners. Put on a performance for family and friends on Friday 13th (12pm & 4pm performances). 9.30am-12.30pm 46 year olds or 10am-4pm 7-14 year olds, from £120.

French Alps +33 4 50 79 08 38 www.alpinefrenchschool.com Dates throughout Easter Holidays French Camps (Morning, Day and Residential) GCSE French Courses in the French Alps. Combine a family skiing holiday with French tuition, or residential options available. 12-15 years, private and group tuition, from €225.

CLUB PETIT PIERROT Luke's Church Hall, St Luke's Street, Chelsea SW3 3RP 020 7385 5565 www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk 9-13 April French Easter Holiday Club Creative activities and fun projects such as arts & crafts, cooking, singing, dancing, sporty games, theatre and language games to develop your child’s

communication skills in French, as well as developing their creativity, critical thinking and imagination.

For ages 3-5 and 6-8, £68 per day, £299 for 5 full days.

MUSIC AND DRAMA DANTASTIC Across SW London 07460 222003 www.dantasticproductions.com/classes Throughout 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, dates vary depending on venue.

ALLSORTS DRAMA More House School, SW1 Notting Hill Prep School, W11 020 8969 3249 www.allsortsdrama.com Drama Workshops Popular and fun drama workshops for ages 4-6 and 7- 11, dates vary depending on venue. The perfect way to keep your child entertained and stimulated in a creative and structured way.

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com 11-19 April Easter Holiday Workshops A range of exciting holiday workshops for budding actors, directors, designers and costume makers, including Chocolate Cake Hunt, Spring into Action!, Easter Bunnies in Training, and Polka Youth Theatre. Ages, times, dates and prices vary, see website for details.

UPBEAT MUSIC Thomas’s Academy, Fulham Road, Parsons Green SW6 07816 901396 www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk 9-13 April Pop and Rock at Upbeat Easter Camp Sing, dance, play in a band, record your tracks and perform them. Age 4-14, 10am-4pm, sibling discounts available.

Upbeat Music

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28 Families South West • March 2018

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EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 1

SPORT AJ COACHING CRICKET ACADEMY Drax Playing Fields, Preston Road, SW20 0SS (outdoor pitch) 07790 935428 www.ajcoaching.co.uk 2-5 April Holiday Camp Cricket camps focusing on skills and match practice, all abilities welcome, age 5-10, 8.30am-1.30pm, £100.

CENTRAL LONDON GOLF CENTRE Burntwood Lane SW17 0AT 020 8871 2468 www.clgc.co.uk 26 March – 13 April Junior Golf Holiday Camps What better way to spend the holidays than improving your golf at one of these fun Easter camps with an array of skills challenges, competitions and tasks. Whether your child is a beginner to the game of golf or a progressive golfer, camps are designed to improve their enjoyment and ability under professional supervision. Includes golf coaching, daily fun competitions, skill challenges and prizes. Age 7-14, morning only camp 9am-12pm, £30, whole day camp 9am-3pm, £45.

Bring a packed lunch.

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.

LITTLE GYM Smugglers Way SW18 1DB 020 8874 6567, wandsworth_fulham@thelittlegym.eu www.wandsworthfulham.thelittlegym.eu 27-29 March Easter Gym Camps These exciting 3-hour drop-off sessions include imaginative Easterthemed adventures in the gym, crafts, snacks and many challenges.

Adventure Camp is for ages 3-8, Skill Thrill for ages 6-12, 9.30am12.30pm.

LITTLE KICKERS

Playball is great fun!

Venues across SW London www.littlekickers.co.uk Throughout Easter Holidays Classes and Workshops A positive introduction to sport by teaching high quality football skills in a friendly, pressure-free environment. There are four different classes tailored specifically to the needs of children between 18 months and 7 years.

Dates in March and April TBC 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. 310 years, times and prices vary.

SWIMWAY Balham, East Sheen, Putney, Kensington, Kew Gardens and Wimbledon 020 8871 3972, info@swimway.co.uk www.swimway.co.uk 3-6 and 9-13 April Easter 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.

YOUNGSTARS MULTISPORTS AND ACTIVITY CAMP

TELFORD PARK TENNIS 35a Killieser Ave, London SW2 4NX 07736 068 375 www.telfordparktennisclub.co.uk Easter tennis camps for 317yrs. Five days of coaching in well structured and progressive sessions for all abilities. Also performance camps for the competitive players! No membership required.

ALL STAR TENNIS Locations: Leaders Gardens (SW15 1LS), King Georges Park (SW18 2GJ), Wandsworth Common (SW18 3RT) and Tooting Common (SW17 8JU)

Book: www.allstartennis.co.uk/holidaycamps/ info@allstartennis.co.uk 020 8871 4706 26 March to 13 April Tennis camps for everyone 3yrs to teens All Star Tennis award wining camps are renowned for their fun and creative approach to learning

FULHAM FC FOUNDATION

Balham, Clapham, Parsons Green, Putney and Wimbledon 07749 343116, info@youngstars.co.uk www.young-stars.co.uk

Venues in Fulham 0870 442 5432, holidaycourses@fulhamfc.com www.fulhamsoccerschools.com Throughout Easter Holidays Easter Holiday Courses Easter soccer schools run every day of the holiday, 9am to 3pm. 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 £16 per day, with discounts for booking the whole week. 3-5yrs, 9-11am, 6-14 yrs.

Hop on the Lindt Bunnny trail at RHS Wisley

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tennis. Packed with games, drills, tennis technique, match preparation, fun tournaments, trick shots, prizes and team games.

Together with a chance to improve your LTA rating and dressing up on the last day! Places available this Easter across the borough of Wandsworth

PLAYBALL Battersea Park SW11 and Oak Lodge School, 101 Nightingale Lane SW12 8NA 07738 375317 www.playball-London.com 9-13 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…

DAYS OUT RHS WISLEY www.rhs.org.uk/wisley Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt: 24 March - 15 April Hop through the garden on the trail of the Lindt Gold Bunny and follow the clues that lead you to a delicious treat! Bring your family along for a full day of Easter fun every day and join in with arts and craft sessions.

Birds of Prey: 7- 8 April Watch magnificent birds of prey displays and get to meet these fascinating birds up close. Agility displays run at 11am and 2pm daily.

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0844 879 7189 www.likeminders.co.uk

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CHILDCARE

Could Shared Parental Leave work for you?

By Mandy Garner

Shared Parental Leave (SPL) allows parents to share time off work during the first year after their child is born, with dads and mums both taking some of the leave, whilst being paid at a statutory rate.

When Craig Curran and Sarah Farquharson looked into sharing the time off after their baby was born they couldn’t believe their luck. They both worked for Virgin Money which offered enhanced shared parental pay for parents on SPL—meaning they would receive a higher level of pay than the statutory rate. Sarah also earned more than Craig so it made better financial sense for Craig to share the leave with her. Even better, the couple were able to take a month of leave together—Sarah took the first five months of leave alone, the couple shared the sixth month and Craig took the last two months.

The result for Craig and Sarah has been a closer family relationship and a greater sharing of parental responsibilities—with neither parent’s career suffering as a result. Sarah was promoted just after she found out she was pregnant whilst Craig returned from his leave to a promotion. “If anyone asks me about it, I say just do it. You never get that time again” says Craig.

“I would 100% do it again.”

Both Craig and Sarah report that their managers and colleagues were very supportive of their leave plans. However, that is not always the case.

In its annual survey Workingmums.co.uk found that only 37% of respondents said they would consider taking SPL. The majority would not. Some of the reasons given were the negative impact on household finances, fears that the dad’s career would suffer and a lack of knowledge about SPL. Some 43% of respondents said they wouldn’t take SPL because it would not make sense financially but the majority of these said that even enhanced SPL pay wouldn’t make a difference to their decision.

Clearly, the suggestion is that other non-financial factors are at play, such as the desire many women have to spend as much time as possible with their baby. 17% of mums said they didn’t want to share their leave.

What SPL does is give parents greater choice over how they manage the care of their new born child and it can be an important building block in facilitating change in discriminatory working environments. However, take

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up remains very low nationally, possibly because the legislation is complex and dry. HR managers are recommending that the language is simplified and that managers are given tools they need to implement SPL, as well as being able to give concrete case studies which show the many different ways in which SPL can be taken: in one chunk or in separate blocks over a period of time; overlapping with the mother for all or part of the leave and so forth. Being able to read about other parents’ experiences brings the whole process to life.

One of the benefits of SPL is that dads who have taken it feel much more confident about being in sole charge of their children. They also have a greater sense of empathy about what looking after a baby involves, and there can also be a positive impact on mental wellbeing. One dad who took SPL is John Birrell from the law firm Berwin Leighton Paisner. His wife went through a traumatic emergency C-section followed by hospitalisation for an infection. Having her husband to share the months after the birth meant she was not left on her own to recover from major surgery while doing the physically exhausting work of looking after a young child. “Mental health is too often ignored and post-natal depression must be one of the most common forms,” says John.

Workingmums.co.uk collaborated recently with daddilife.com on a series of videos highlighting the need for parents to have open conversations around Shared Parental Leave. One couple who took part are Eulalia Pereira and Martin Stopher from London. Eulalia said: “As a mother there is a sense you should be doing everything. I know (as a result of taking SPL) that Martin, on a day to day basis is there, that he is involved with the kids. I could not have hoped for more.”

• Mandy Gardner is editor of www.workingmums.co.uk, a platform dedicated to finding flexible, challenging work for mums. To view videos in which three couples discuss their choice to take Shared Parental Leave, take a look at the Workingmums.co.uk Youtube Channel.

Families South West 31

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

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

THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

THE MONTESSORI CHILDREN

TEA TIME FOR TODDLERS

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.

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

CALL US TO BOOK A VISIT TO THE NURSERY

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

BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE We offer a drop-off and pick-up service to and from local schools, with breakfast club, help with homework and supper.

Holiday school also offered.

www.themontessorischool.co.uk 32 Families South West • March 2018

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CHILDCARE

Finding the right childcare provider Finding good quality childcare can be a difficult task for parents. Here is a step by step guide to the things to look out for and the questions to ask when selecting the childcare provider that is right for your child.

MAKE A LIST Draw up a shortlist of providers using information from your local Family Information Service which should be available from your local authority.

Remember to check: • The hours that childcare can be provided • The hourly, daily, and/or weekly cost • If they have places available for your child • Whether they are offering the 30 hours of government funded childcare (if you are eligible).

VISIT PROVIDERS ON YOUR SHORTLIST It's a good idea to visit several settings and to ask questions in person. It might help to take a friend or your partner to give you a second opinion.

Things to look for: • Trained and experienced staff, ready to learn and respond to your child's individual needs • Busy but relaxed children who seem happy and purposeful • Safe, clean, welcoming premises • Outside play space • Cultural sensitivity and responsiveness to children's home life • A staff team and group of children who reflect local ethnic and cultural groups • Fun activities planned each day – childcare providers all need to plan their days with children's interests and enthusiasms in mind • Planned exercise and quiet times to relax are important • A big welcome for you and your child What to ask: • What is the ratio of staff to children?

How many children do they care for?

• What qualifications and/or experience do the staff have?

• What are the daily routines and how can they incorporate my child's and other children's routines?

• Do they operate a key worker scheme (whereby one member of staff has main responsibility for your child)?

• What are their policies on discipline and how do you manage children's behaviour?

• Do they provide meals, snacks, nappies, etc. or will you need to provide them?

• What will your child enjoy?

Here's a list of the things children said were most important when asked for their views: Friends - check that a stable group of children attend so your children can make and maintain friendships Food - check mealtimes are relaxed and fun and ask if children can help themselves to drinks and snacks Familiesonline.co.uk

Fun outside - check the outside area is well planned, spacious and safe as children love playing outside Discovery - make sure there is plenty of opportunity for children to learn new things with varied, carefully planned, structured things to do Feeling safe and loved - check that the staff are able to respond to individual children's needs, to comfort and encourage them and to keep them safe Remember to also think about the things that matter to you and your child, and make sure you ask about them.

CHECK THE QUALITY Most childcare providers looking after children under the age of eight years usually have to be registered with Ofsted. You can check Ofsted's grade and report for the providers you are considering at www.ofsted.gov.uk

TAKE UP REFERENCES Other parents' experiences of a childcare provider can be very useful. It is advisable to take up at least two references. Childcare providers should be happy to give you names of other parents to speak to about the service they provide.

BOOK A PLACE Book your child's place and arrange details like hours, start date, and who is allowed to pick up your child. You may need to pay a retainer fee to keep the place open until your child starts.

SETTLING IN Your child may take some time to settle into any new childcare setting, so allow them time to adjust to their new surroundings, especially if this is their first time in childcare. Most settings will offer a ‘settling in period,' during which you have an agreed length of time to assess whether the setting is the right one for your child and that they are happy there.

FUNDING SUPPORT Some two year olds and all three and four year olds in England can get 570 hours of ‘free’ childcare, the equivalent of 15 hours a week for 38 weeks of the year, but check whether will be charges for ‘adds on’ such as materials and snacks. You might also be able to get an additional 15 hours of free childcare if you are in work and meet certain requirements.

• The Family and Childcare Trust provide a useful ‘Childcare Finder Tool’ and ‘Help with Childcare Costs Guide’ which can be found at www.familyandchildcaretrust.org Families South West 33

Make a splash! ... at Dawmouse Montessori School Come and see how we teach with passion in our two Montessori Schools in Fulham.

Fully qualified staff, small class ratios, established for over 20 years, modern in our approach.

Call Miss Emma on 020 8398 9294 or visit our website www.dawmouse.co.uk

LITTLE ANGELS NURSERY SCHOOL A Traditional Teaching Nursery - Learning through Play We are an Ofsted rated 'Good' day care nursery school. We lay the foundation of learning where your child's interests form the base to develop their full potential.

Our nursery is very homely and friendly, and staff are fully qualified with many years' experience in Early Years.

Open all year round 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday except bank holidays and four weeks in a year.

15/30 hours weekly free sessions available for 2-4yrs.

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

34 Families South West • March 2018

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CHILDCARE GOT AN EVENT? WHY NOT HIRE A MOBILE CRÈCHE? If you need to attend an adult-focused event with your children, you may want to organise some special childcare on site. Harmony at Home South West London offer mobile and event crèches which are managed

by Norland Nannies and nursery nurses.

A mobile crèche is a site-specific childcare provision, which allows parents to relax and enjoy themselves. Harmony at Home typically provides mobile crèches for weddings, conferences and other special events.

“The children were kept occupied and happy, with lots of toys and arts and crafts, including personalised busy bags, tailored to each age group from 2 years old. When they started to get tired, a sleeping den was set up, with mats and blankets, and travel cots for the babies, while the parents enjoyed themselves.” Event held at https://brunswickhouse.london in January 2018

FAMILY LAW FIRM SHARES THEIR “SCHOOL RULES” IN TIMES OF FAMILY CONFLICT

They always provide a premium level of childcare on site, allowing the children to play and make new friends under the capable supervision of excellent Harmony-registered childcarers. Quotations vary depending on the age and number of children involved, the length of time needed, the venue location and the type of service needed.

Planning your child’s education can be challenging, especially if you and your partner are separated and cannot agree what is best.

Please contact owner Allie Bell at Harmony at Home South West London on 07766 202071

Burgess Mee Family Law are experts at dealing with children cases including disputes over the choice of school. This decision may also involve relocating to a different area, which can add another layer of potential disagreement. Such decisions usually require parental agreement, or a court order called a Specific Issue Order. In deciding the order, a judge will apply a list of factors, called the welfare checklist.

NOT ENOUGH HOURS IN THE DAY? GET HELP!

Before that becomes necessary, there are “school rules” to getting it right for your child. We asked Burgess Mee to share their tips: 1. Be on time Timing is crucial in this type of decision and it is important to start early. If an agreement cannot be reached with the other parent, then a court application may take 6-9 months or longer so the earlier you start to plan the better.

2. Speak up Courts like parents to communicate and not make unilateral decisions. We appreciate that this can be difficult if there is high conflict. Our team includes skilled mediators and collaborative lawyers who can help you consider whether a process of dispute resolution is right for your family.

SpareMyTime was created to help busy people get things done.

They can blitz that to-do-list by helping with everything from house moves and property maintenance to finding children’ activities or shopping for the perfect gift.

They say "Our priority is always quality and customer care, so all services are handpicked, reference checked, rated and reviewed.

It’s flexible, reliable and really easy."

3. Do your homework If your case must go to court, then a Judge will carefully analyse your plans. We can guide you on the areas to consider giving you the best prospects of success.

For more information visit www.sparemytime.com or email Melissa@sparemytime.com

4. Teamwork There is nothing more important than the wellbeing of your child, and their stability and security. Our lawyers can be your best team. We appreciate that this is an emotional process and we can guide and support you to reach the right outcome.

MOTHER THE MOTHER – A DOULA’S ROLE

Burgess Mee told us: “We are top ranked family lawyers and an awardwinning team. All our expert lawyers are skilled strategists and sympathetic listeners and advisors. We are a full service modern practice offering affordable solutions, including mediation, collaborative law and other dispute resolution options alongside our vast magic circle litigation backgrounds.”

• To discuss any of these issues call Antonia or Peter and the team on 0203 8249 950 or mail@burgessmee.com or share this article with anyone who may need their discreet and specialist services.

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Jeannie Dalton, the owner of Sticky Fingers Day Nursery, is branching out: she is now offering a Doula service in South West London. having completed her training with Nurturing Birth. Jeannie offers antenatal, birth, postnatal and night support. If you are interested in having support for the birth of your baby, please email her at j.m.dalton@btinternet.com

Families South West 35

AJ COACHING

CRICKET ACADEMY’S EASTER CAMP Our exciting cricket camp will help keep children productively occupied while sharpening their skills.

These specialist sessions focus upon the core areas of cricket: throwing, bowling, batting, fielding and catching in a fun and innovative way.

Our four-day outdoor cricket camp is for 5-13 year olds and will help them get ready for the imminent season at school or club.

Our success is based on the enjoyment of cricket.

We build motivating environments that encourage every individual to ‘have a go’ and embrace the sport.

Dates: Tuesday 3rd April to Thursday 6th April Times: 08:30-13:30 Venue: Drax Playing Fields, Preston Road, SW20 0SS (outdoor pitch) Cost: £100 For more information and to book on our course, log onto: www.ajcoaching.co.uk or email Ali Jaffer on: coachcricket@ajcoaching.co.uk

36 Families South West • March 2018

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Families South West 37

38 Families South West • March 2018

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HEALTH

What is croup? And how to deal with it

By Dr Shahida Iqbal

Croup is a common childhood illness that can cause a distinctive bark like cough. It can also cause difficulty breathing which can be frightening for both you and your child.

Croup is most commonly caused by parainfluenza viruses. This affects the airways to your lungs including the air tubes of the lungs (bronchi), windpipe (trachea) and voice box (larynx). This causes them to swell and become narrower. It usually affects children between the ages of six months and three years old, with most cases occurring in one year olds.

As children become older their breathing tubes become firmer and wider and thus croup becomes uncommon after the age of six.

Autumn, winter and spring are prime times for this condition, thanks to the prevalence of colds and flus around these times of the year.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? Your child will have a harsh, barking cough. Many people liken this sound to the noise seals make. Raspy sounding breathing difficulties are also common. Croup symptoms cause the airways to narrow which may cause harsh grating sounds when breathing in, called stridor. These croup symptoms are generally worse at night. Other symptoms may include runny nose, sore throat, fever and being off their food.

HOW CAN YOU MANAGE CROUP? Stay calm. This will reassure your child no matter how young he or she is. Children with croup may become distressed and crying may make symptoms worse.

Sit your child upright on your lap if breathing is noisy or difficult. Let them find the most comfortable position.

Soothe their throats and keep them hydrated with cool drinks little and often. Although do not force fluids as this can distress the child.

Stay with your child or check on him or her regularly as you need to be aware if symptoms are getting worse.

Your GP will advise parents to manage mild cases of croup at home.

Croup tends to get better on its own within 48 hours, although a very mild but irritating cough may persist for a further week or so.

MEDICATIONS? Give your child paracetamol to lower a fever and to treat any pain.

Follow the instructions on the bottle.

Your GP may also prescribe a single dose of an oral corticosteroid. This will treat the swelling of the throat and make your child much more comfortable.

WHAT YOU SHOULD NOT TO DO...

Do not put anything in your child’s mouth to look at the throat, this may significantly worsen the symptoms.

Do not give your child cough medicines. These will dry the mucus making the airways even smaller.

YOU SHOULD SEE THE GP IF: - you are worried/unsure about a case of croup (or at least call NHS 111) - your child has a temperature above 39°C or looks distressed/ill - your child is taking less fluids than normal for him or her - your child is below 6 months.

WHAT ARE THE COMPLICATIONS? It is rare for complications to develop from croup. However severe cases can cause a child to struggle to breathe and will require hospitalisation.

GO TO A+E OR CALL 999 IF: - your child is struggling to breathe (you may see their chest or tummy sucking inwards/their breathing sounds different) - their skin or lips start to look blue/grey - they are unusually quiet and still

HOW CAN YOU PREVENT CROUP? Croup itself cannot be prevented. It spreads like colds and flu. Washing your hands and cleaning surfaces can help. Routine vaccinations will help protect against some of the infections that can lead to croup.

Dr Shahida Eva Iqbal MBChB BSc MRCGP DRCOG works as a General Practitioner at Sands End Health Clinic, Fulham.

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Families South West 39

40 Families South West • March 2018

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Action Station

PARTIES

Make your child’s birthday one they’ll talk about!

Before you start The differing needs and interests of each age group largely dictate what makes for a successful party. Don't feel the party has to last all afternoon—around two hours is enough, before everyone gets tired and emotional (not least the host parents). As a guide: One and two year-olds aren’t yet ready for a big affair. Most parents opt for a family get-together or a not too big buffet with a handful of friends with similar aged children. Enjoy it while you can—it's a doddle to organise and sociable for the adults (it has been known for babies to sleep right through while the grown ups catch up over nibbles).

Three year-olds respond well to simple planned activities. Name sticker them on arrival then capture their imagination with simple 'circle time' singing and clapping games, or 'dancing' (ie jumping up and down to music). Balloons burst and it can all end in tears—hang them high as decorations rather than introducing them as playthings.

Four to six year-olds enjoy joining in. Plenty of engaging games and giggles keep things rolling, and if you're hiring help, puppeteers, musicmakers or storytellers are a good bet. Allow space and time too for simply zipping around for a burst of unstructured play (which is where you'll be thankful you blew up all those balloons). Finish with a round of Sleeping Lions so everyone can calm down a little.

The Action Station Choosing the right entertainment for your party, engaging the attention and respect of an event room filled with children (and parents) is always challenging. With more than 10 years experience in Children’s Entertainment, The Action Station offers unique entertainment solutions, tailored to the age of the children, your preferred theme and budget.

Specialising in Imaginative Interactive Storytelling and Drama Workshops, a team of professional actors and actresses share their passion with their audience, taking them along their unique adventures. Focusing on what’s fun for children, with loads of live action and originality, new concepts and themes are continually created.

Seven to nine year-olds are ready for more concentration and involvement in the party entertainment. Most are now old enough and skilled enough for arts and crafts (making their own goodie bag filler at the same time is jolly handy). Alternatively, dancing, circus skills, drama or a team treasure hunt are good ways of harnessing energy—if you fail to plan they're likely to fall back on that old favourite: "who can scream the loudest?"

Tens to teens and this worldly-wise lot is unlikely to want Mummy and Daddy embarrassing them by donning a paper hat and insisting on joining in (save it for when they're reaching their teens—it'll be SO much more fun for you). They'll be wanting to do something special such as bowling, karting, a mini dance club in the living room, or a themed drama and singing workshop. Alternatively, a good bet is a jaw-dropping magic show, particularly when it's interactive'.

Call in the professionals Crowd control—ah that's the way to do it! Experienced party entertainers are a sound investment, bringing fun and games so you can sit back and enjoy the fun.

There are excellent local entertainers—now’s the time to make contact!

Choose from mermaids, witches, fairies or princesses, knights, pirates, cowboys, and many more! 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. Choosing from juggling acts, stilt walkers, fire eaters, puppet shows, mad cap magicians and clowns, Illusionists, DJs, face painters …. and much more! – The Action Station continues to seek out the best and most unique entertainment option for your party.

Create and plan memorable fun-filled parties with The Action Station: call 0870 770 2705 www.theactionstation.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

Families South West 41

PARTY SPECIAL

POPSTAR RECORDING STUDIO PARTY Looking for something really different? Then what about a real recording session in a recording studio?

Studiostars offers just that with a party thrown in— everything is included: music, lyrics, drinks and snacks, plus a photoshoot and a CD per person.

You can get involved and listen to the mix in the control room or hide away in the soundproof lounges!

The children will choose their songs, name their band, and make their first CD. They’ll record three tunes over two hours, with plenty of time to take photos and videos. The team will show you some of the tricks they use to make real pop singers sound better. There’s also a photoshoot for the CD cover, which usually involves plenty of pop star posing!

It’s an unforgettable event, ideal for that special birthday or treat. It is so successful they have children coming back year on year.

To find out more visit www.studiostars.co.uk

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?

“Just wanted to say a massive Thank You for today! It was such an amazing party & Kitty had the best time ever!!!” Sarah 020 8959 1045 / 07969 121094 info@adamantsparties.co.uk www.adamantsparties.co.uk

BESPOKE PARTIES WITH LYDIE We are all Peter Pans at heart, well, I like to believe I am. Lydie’s Parties offer magical musical, theatrical themes for children and adults from 4 to 104. Her bespoke parties are totally unique, you must see it to believe it. Children are entranced by the magic world she creates in her stories and her stunning decors.

“Thank you so much for Jack's wonderful magical party. We all loved it.

I can't believe how lucky we were to find you! ” Holy, London.

To know more about Lydie's parties go to her website, or even better, talk to her, you will not regret it. 07957 296 675 www.lydieparties.com

BOCKETTS FARM PARK WHAT ABOUT A KARTING PARTY? For all those budding Lewis Hamilton's out there, why not come and sample a real kid’s motorsport party experience with The London Karting Company?

With their large mobile circuit being setup in Battersea and Roehampton, drivers from 4 -11 years old can race one of the amazing F1 styled karts around the 150-international track. Drivers will receive race suits and helmets and are given a full safety briefing along with live race commentary throughout the event. They then nicely finish off with the trophy and medal podium presentation.

The London Karting Company have been running motorsport parties for children all over the UK since 2011. They are fully mobile and can either bring their party format to their popular London locations, or if you prefer they can bring the event to your preferred location.

020 8677 8677 www.london-karting.com

42 Families South West • March 2018

The ideal place for a fun filled birthday party. With animals galore, exciting play areas, a private animal handling session, plus a hot or cold menu in one of the decorated party rooms, it’s a great day out!

Bocketts Farm, Leatherhead.

01372 363764

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PARTY SPECIAL

PRIVATE VENUE TO HOST YOUR GLOW DISCOS, SOFT PLAY AND SPORTS PARTIES AT KIDSFUSION Based in the heart of Battersea, a beautiful private venue to have a bespoke personalised specialist party for your child!

•Glow Discos •Soft Play Parties •Sports Parties

Book your child’s party experience today!

KidsFusion.co.uk parties@kidsfusion.co.uk 0207 998 8480 @Kf Parties

: kidsfusionbirthdays

•Private party venue •Free Parking •Pre-decorated party venue with customised themes •Facepainters, Caricaturists, Balloon twisters, Qualified fun sports coaches and more!

The perfect place to host your Soft play or Sports party

‘Toy Story’ themed party

Silly Millie the Clown Parties for 3-9 year olds Funny Magic Show, Puppet’s, Party Games, Silly Songs and Balloon Animals Call 020 7823 8329 - 07939 239397

www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk

The Children’s Entertainer Fun & Games, Mini Disco, Magic, Juggling, Puppet Shows 07961 355269

www.mrbooboo.co.uk Recommended by the Evening Standard

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

The perfect party for little ones.

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

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Families South West 43

FREE ACTIVITIES

There’s plenty to do in London for FREE! MORDEN HALL PARK Morden SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhall-park Throughout March Join a nature trail around the park and make some delightful crafts to take home. £4 per child, entry to Morden Hall is free. 11am-4pm.

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk 30 March – 15 April Jungle survival skills – Workshop Learn how to survive in the jungle at this free family friendly workshop.

Imagine you’re in the jungle, surrounded by tall trees, critters scuttling over the floor, and rain falling. How do you survive?

10.30am-12.30pm, 1.30-4.30pm, drop in.

love elderflowers), then feed your own little ones at the Mudchute Kitchen. All ages.

BFI MEDIATHEQUE BFI Southbank, Belvedere Rd, South Bank SE1 8XT www.whatson.bfi.org.uk Throughout March Revisit childhood telly classics at the BFI Mediatheque For film lovers, students and families it is a chance to search for and watch films, documentaries and a vast collection of homegrown and international animations. Cuddle up on the soft seats in a viewing station, put your headphones on and enjoy. All ages.

STAY AND PLAY Brixton Library, Brixton Oval SW2 1JQ 10, 17 and 24 March Playtime, songs and arts and craft activities for under 5s Free, all ages welcome, 9.30-11am.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 11 April Animal Sculptures Join artist Lydia Hardwick for this sculpture workshop. Using mixed media, build a 3D model of the animals featured in The Lost Words. Suitable for age 5+, drop in sessions 11am-1pm and 2-4.30pm.

MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM Crowmwell Road SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk Throughout March Winnie the Pooh: Exploring a Classic This multi-sensory and playful exhibition rediscovers the magical world of one of the most adored fictional characters of all time. 10am-5.30pm, small fee applies.

FULHAM PALACE

No.1 Warehouse, West India Quay E14 4AL www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum -london-docklands Throughout March Sailortown Visit the stinky streets and dark alleyways of Sailortown hear the noises, peer into the shadowy alleyways, gaze through the window of the chandler’s shop and see inside an old East End boozer. All ages.

Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org 18 March Hand’s On Archaeology – Building with the Tudors An opportunity to get up close and personal with archaeology and learn more about the rich and varied history of this ancient site. 1pm3pm, no booking necessary.

MUDCHUTE FARM

Horniman Museum and Gardens, 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk 24 March Youth Takeover: Family Day The Horniman Youth Panel take over the museum for an exciting day of activities for families, inspired by their new exhibition Colour: The Rainbow Revealed. 12-4pm, all ages.

Pier Street E14 3HP www.mudchute.org Throughout March An unexpected patch of countryside on the Isle of Dogs, Mudchute Park and Farm is a laidback and friendly day out, with the chance to get close to all kinds of animals. Join the regular crafting workshops and feed the beasts (the cows particularly

44 Families South West • March 2018

Compiled by Joanna Parry

Fulham Palace has hands on archaeology

PUMP HOUSE GALLERY Battersea Park SW11 4NJ pumphousegallery.org.uk 10 March Sounding Objects Free drop-in family arts and crafts workshops.

11am-4pm, all ages, no booking necessary.

FLEDGLINGS ON THE COMMON Bolingbroke Early Years Centre, Chivalry Road, Wandsworth Common SW11 1HT Saturdays in March Stay and play sessions aim to help parents/carers learn how to include play in every day routines with their children. 9.30-11.30am, age up to 8.

BRITISH LIBRARY 96 Euston Road NW1 2DB ww.bl.uk/events 24 March Wondrous Libraries! A creative workshop exploring different materials for you to design your own extraordinary library map with.

Be inspired by the architecture of the British Library, their wonderful collection of maps and tales of unusual libraries. 12-12.30pm and 13.30pm, ages 5-11, first come first served.

CASS ARTS WORKSHOPS YOUTH TAKEOVER: FAMILY DAY

66-67 Colebrooke Row N1 8AB www.cassart.co.uk Saturdays in March These sessions are a lovely way to inspire ideas and nurture budding artists. A free activity table is set out with a range of materials, inviting kids to let their imaginations run wild. Children must be accompanied by an adult, but sessions are drop-in and all materials are supplied, 10am-12pm.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Dates throughout March Investigate for Families Get a feel for how scientists work by having a go yourself. Explore hundreds of real nature specimens that form the evidence museum scientists use in their work. Age 311, 11am-5pm.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA www.vam.ac.uk/moc 10 and 17 March Scientists’ Museum Celebrating British Science Week, a special interactive activity to explore how a scientist views the Museum’s collection from mechanical toys, children’s medical tools to computer games.

Drop-in, age 4+, 11.20am – 12pm.

BATTERSEA ARTS CENTRE Lavender Hill SW11 5TN www.bac.org.uk Final Saturday of the month Family Saturdays Fun, free activities for ages 0-11, including face painting, music, toy and clothes swaps, plus older children and young people can get involved in their Homegrown programme.

Includes The Bee’s Knees, a magical indoor play space for ages 0-5.

10am-1.30pm, free, (The Bee’s Knees is £3 per child).

BROMPTON LIBRARY Brompton Road SW5 0BS First Saturday of every month Saturday Storyland 10-10.40am, plus story and craft 10.30-11.30am.

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FAMILY FESTIVAL AND CAMPING EXPERIENCE WITH LITTLE WOWO Families with children under 5 years old, do consider joining their Little Wowo Weeks. These are family camping experiences with tailored activities and workshops to suit you and your little ones in a relaxed outdoor environment.

Nature walks, story time in the tipi, forest school, bug hunts, nature arts and crafts, fireside cooking. Perfect for first time campers and those that want to introduce camping to their children at this wonderful age.

Bring your own tent or book a unique glamping option.

Head to their website and check out the Little Wowo page under Workshops.

Find them on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with the latest news.

July 1st-5th and September 2nd-6th Sussex www.wowo.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON

SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR

DIARY DATES We take much care in preparing these What’s On pages, but please do double check with organiser before setting out as things change.

THE BRIGHT EMPORIUM 103 -105 St John’s Hill SW11 1SY www.thebrightemporium.com Every Saturday in March Messy Toddlers All the mess, all the fun but none of the tidying up.

For mini artists in the making.

10am, age 1-4.

LITTLE SCIENCE Imperial College, Exhibition Road SW7 2AZ www.littlehouseofscience.com Saturdays in March Fantastic science workhops, helping lay the foundation for your child’s future academic progress.

10am, age 5-8.

TCH KIDS CLUB The Climbing Hangar, 33-35 Parsons Green Lane SW6 www.theclimbinghangar.com/london Saturdays in March Sports Club Climbing session led by experienced instructors and open to all abilities. Age 7-9, 9.30am.

KIDS CLUB FILM Clapham Picturehouse, 76 Venn Street SW4 0AT www.picturehouses.com/cinema/ Clapham_Picturehouse Saturdays in March Movies exclusively for children and their parents and carers. Includes My Little Pony and Shaun the Sheep.

FIRST AID FOR LIFE

IF YOU ONLY DO ONE THING THIS MONTH DON’T MISS MICHAEL ROSEN’S CHOCOLATE CAKE Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com 23 March – 13 May Follow the adventures of two brothers and the night-time disappearance of a chocolate cake in this scrumptious new musical adaptation by the creators of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and How to Hide a Lion. The play comes right out of the pages of Michael Rosen’s beloved poem Chocolate Cake, which has just been published as a picture book. Age 4+, tickets from £10. We love this perfect concoction by Polka—get your ticket now and don’t miss out!

And why not join in a fun Chocolate Cake Workshop on 11 April and explore Michael Rosen’s story through creative and imaginative drama and crafts? 10.30am3.30pm, age 5-7, £30, book now.

Workshops explore gender equality, what it means to be a girl and what boys can do to help ensure equality.

WANDSWORTH FOSTERING EVENTS 020 8871 6666 www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fostering 15 March If you think you may want to become foster carer, Wandsworth is there to help you in your journey. Day or evenings event to guide and inform you.

DROP-IN CHOCOLATE MAKING The Chocolate Museum, 187 Ferndale Road SW9 8BA www.thechocolatemuseum.co.uk 10 March

Creative and fun workshop. Age 5+, 2.30-5.30pm, from £9.50.

SATURDAY CLUBS LNS Bluebell Cottage, 8 Hornton Place, Kensington W8 4LZ www.londonnurseryschools.co.uk/lnsbluebell-cottage 10, 17 and 24 March Saturday clubs offering specialist areas of learning and development for little ones. From £40, 9am1.30pm.

NCT CLAPHAM www.nct.org.uk/branches/clapham 14 March and 7 April First Aid for Babies Course 14 March - 7-10pm at Eddie Catz, Earlsfield SW18 3NZ. 7 April - 25pm at Physio For All, Webbs Road SW11 6SF.

SCIENCE FAMILY DAY John Burns Primary School, Wycliffe Road, London, SW11 5QR www.sciencefamilyday.com Saturday 17th March Come back in time to visit some science of the last 200 years. What will you discover? Meet creatures with an ancient legacy in the Animal Show, build a slime monster, extract DNA and explore historical geometry. Play with polymers in Fantastic Plastics and team up for the Family Turbine Challenge. Refreshments and Science Toy Shop also available.

Aimed at families with children aged 3-11. 1.30pm-5.30pm. Entry (includes all activities): £4 per child, adults free.

ROBOTICS WORKSHOP

WOW – WOMEN OF THE WORLD FESTIVAL

Imperial College, Exhibition Road SW7 2AZ inspiredmindstutors.com/workshops 17 March Take robots apart to learn how they work. Then build your own!

These carefully crafted workshops are full of hands-on, fun activities.

11am-1pm and 2-4pm.

Southbank Centre SE1 www.southbankcentre.co.uk 7-11 March A global festival celebrating women and girls With interactive workshops for girls and boys aged 6-10 in the Under 10s Feminist Corner, on 10 and 11 March.

Ricards Lodge High School, Wimbledon www.mum2mummarket.co.uk 17 March Come along and buy all kinds of nearly new toys, clothes, books,

74 Ramsden Road, Balham SW12 8QZ www.firstaidforlife.org.uk 2, 10, 14, 23, 24 and 28 March Paediatric 6 Hour First Aid Course

46 Families South West • March 2018

MUM2MUM MARKET

Art activities at the Unicorn Play Club

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YOUTH TAKEOVER: FAMILY DAY Horniman Museum and Gardens, 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk 31 March – 1 April Horniman Easter Fair. Go on an Easter trail, create something crafty in a workshop, have your face painted and join in family activities across the Gardens. Age 3+, FREE

CHELSEA PHYSIC GARDEN

Book now for London Transport Museum's Open Weekend 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. 2-4pm.

LEEDS CASTLE Maidstone ME17 1PL www.leeds-castle.com 20 March – 2 April Circus Fun. Leeds Castle will be the host of Tarzanna, a playful aerial theatre show. Families can watch the performers climb, jump and swing through the air during this incredible performance. Kids will also be able to learn circus skills throughout the day. Included with price of admission.

30 March – 15 April Easter Quest. Seek out the clues that are hidden around the Castle grounds this Easter on a fun quest for children of all ages. Answer all

of the questions and receive a chocolate treat as a fun reward.

There is an additional £1 charge for the Easter Quest.

RHS GARDEN WISLEY Woking, Surrey GU23 6QB www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley 24 March – 15 April Easter Holiday Fun - Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt. Hop through the garden on the trail of the Lindt Gold Bunny and follow the clues that lead you to a delicious treat.

Bring your family along for a full day of Easter fun and join in with arts and craft sessions.

66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW3 4HS www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 3 April Chocolate Tuesday Join them to look into the history, geography and science of chocolate and celebrate this very special substance. The day will include craft activities, a Garden tour, chocolate tasting and the chance to create your own mixtures to take away. There’ll be a gourmet tasting session with staff from Rococo

WHAT’S ON

Chocolates. Age 7+.

6 April Wiggly Wild Show Discover the wonderful world of mini-beasts, bugs, reptiles and creepy crawlies with 'The Wiggly Wild Show'. See and hold a pygmy hedgehog, giant snails, millipedes and much more!

Age 3-7, 10.30am and 1pm.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM ACTON DEPOT www.ltmuseum.co.uk 21-22 April Open Weekend: Capital Design Discover a treasure trove of vintage vehicles, poster art and a vast array of transport ephemera, tucked into their rarely open working museum store. Discover their poster art collection on a guided tour, browse the sign mezzanine and learn more about the famous Johnston Font, or join a talk from their weekend lecture series on maps, poster art and underground design. 11am-5pm, from £10, children go free.

LONDON FIRST AID TRAINING Venues in Battersea SW11 www.firstaidtraininglondon.co.uk 24 March and 14 April Paediatric First Aid Course.

Includes resuscitation procedures, drowning, choking, shock, spinal injury, burns and scalds. From £80.

Rug Rythmes at the Southbank Centre

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WHAT’S ON

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BABIES AND TODDLERS

THE GRAVENEY AND MEADOW 40 Mitcham Road SW17 9NA graveneyandmeadow.com

Child friendly day time choir at the Graveney and Meadow Wednesdays in March Kids’ and toddlers’ arts and craft classes. See website for details.

Thursdays in March Pram Chorus Child friendly daytime choir, 10am, £7 per adult, see website for times.

Fridays in March Rhythm n’ Babies Music classes for babies and their carers with instruments. 9.30am, £5.

THE BEDFORD PUB 77 Bedford Hill SW12 9HD thebedford.com Tuesdays and Fridays in March Baby Sensory classes and Pram Chorus See website for details.

Plus, they are running dance classes and hold a Big Fish Little Fish kids’ and parents’ “rave” every month, featuring top DJs, craft drop ins, bubble machine and parachute dance.

Last Wednesday of every month Screaming With Laughter London’s original afternoon comedy club, designed for parents with babies under 1 year. See the

48 Families South West • March 2018

best acts from TV and the comedy circuit without having to book a babysitter. Buy tickets at www.wegottickets.com/ScreamingWi thLaughter

BYOB Comedy Clapham, East Dulwich, Teddington, Putney, Tooting www.byobcomedy.com Dates in March Bring Your Own Baby Comedy A funny, friendly afternoon of top comedy and you get to bring your own baby! They provide toys, baby changing, buggy parking, bottle warmers and more, so that baby is happy and you can relax and enjoy top comedy stars from the circuit and TV.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays in March, depending on venue A Community of Choirs for Women, with or without children.

Sing world songs, folk songs, gospel and more. A warm welcome awaits all singing abilities. Contact southlondonsingingmamas@gmail.c om, tel 07947 609780.

Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk Every Monday in March Little Explorers Bring your little ones to enjoy crafts, outdoor activities, songs and stories. Little Explorers is a fun activity session for children aged 2-5, 10am, £2 per child, £1 siblings.

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM

THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL

Park Row, Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Tuesdays in March Play Tuesdays Embark on a museum adventure that includes trails, arty workshops, songs and stories. 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2pm.

Kensington Gore SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com Tuesdays and Wednesdays in March Storytelling and Music Sessions A series of sessions for babies and toddlers aged 0-4, to encourage interaction between parents/carers and their little ones using musical instruments, singing, movement and stories. 10am and 11.30am, £5.

BACH TO BABY

MUSEUM OF LONDON

Founding Museum, 40 Brunswick Square WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 15 March and 19 April Discover the award-winning classical concert series for babies, toddlers and parents. Themed concerts are performed by pianist Miaomiao Yu along with other internationally renowned musicians. 10.30am, £12 adults, children free.

EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk Wednesdays in March Little Moles Toddlers Group and Mini Moles Babies Group Fun, hands-on, creative sessions for toddlers, parents and carers. 3.304.30pm, book in advance. Plus sensory, hands-on, play-based activities for you and your baby to enjoy together, 11am-12pm.

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com Saturdays in March Up Club Join the Unicorn Play Club most Saturdays for free dropin activities from portrait painting and potato printing to giant rocket making and more. 12noon - 2pm.

SINGING MAMAS CHOIR South London Liberal Synagogue, Streatham / The Half Moon (Workshop Room), Herne Hill www.singingmamaschoir.com

DO-RE-MI BABIES CONCERTS Barnes, Chelsea, Fulham, Wandsworth www.doremibabies.co.uk Dates throughout March Inspirational and fun classical concerts Babies and toddlers are welcome to crawl, dance, sing, cry, nappy change and more, so you can relax and enjoy some wonderful music. £10 per adult, children free, tickets online or on the door. Dates vary depending on venue.

MORDEN HALL PARK

FULHAM PALACE Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org Mondays and Tuesdays in March The Palace Explorers Join the Palace Explorers, weekly parent/carer and toddler sessions for children aged 2-4. £4 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack, booking essential. 9.30am10.30am.

KENSINGTON PALACE W8 4PX hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace Selected Wednesdays and Saturdays in January and February Tiny Explorers Explore and play in the Palace together. Discover the stories of Kensington Palace through music, movement, messy play and more. £6 per child, price includes up to two adults £5 per child for members. 10.30am – babies, 1pm – walkers, 2.30pm – walkers.

DRAGON BABIES

Copyright Nelli Ali

SOUTHBANK CENTRE SE1 www.southbankcentre.co.uk Dates in March Rug Rhymes A short session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories. Times vary.

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Throughout March Toddlers aged 3-5 can experience the sounds of Southbank Centre's gamelan (Javanese orchestra) through singing, movement and play. 11am, £5.

Fulham Palace, Palace Explorers

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WHAT’S ON

DRAMA Seven Dials, 32-34 Earlham Street 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.

COLOUR HOUSE THEATRE Watermill Way SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Saturdays and Sundays to 8 April Pinocchio Craftsman Geppetto has made an incredible little wooden puppet, Pinocchio, however one magical night his creation transforms into a real boy!

Pinocchio’s adventure has just begun… 12pm, from £10.

NATIONAL THEATRE Upper Ground SE1 9PX www.nationaltheatre.org.uk 10 March – 14 April The Great Wave On a Japanese beach, teenage sisters Hanako and Reiko are caught up in a storm.

Reiko survives while Hanako is lost to the sea. Their mother, however, can’t shake the feeling her missing daughter is still alive. From £15.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre 19-24 March Of Mice and Men Set in the trying times of the Great Depression, Of Mice And Men is a powerful portrait of the American spirit and a heartbreaking testament to the bonds of friendship and what it means to be human.

OMNIBUS THEATRE 1 Clapham Common Northside SW4 0QW www.omnibus-clapham.org 18 March My Dad, The Magician The year is 1991. Tom is 11 years old.

His dad is a magician and Tom is his

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assistant. Using handmade magic tricks, live music and a rabbit called Horace, this nostalgically inventive show tells the story of a real magician whose greatest trick will be making sure there’s food on the family table. Age 7+, from £7, 11am and 2.30pm.

PEACOCK THEATRE WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com 29 March – 7 April English National Ballet – My First Ballet: Swan Lake This charming show features a shortened version of Tchaikovsky’s music, and a narrator to guide the young audience through the story of the beautiful princess Odette, who was turned into a swan by the evil magician Rothbart.

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com 16-18 March The Steadfast Soldier The tale of a resilient one-legged toy soldier and his extraordinary adventures out in the world. This playful retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s story uses puppetry, projected animations, music and shadow play for a unique theatrical experience. Age 3-6.

23-25 March The Little Mochi Man It’s almost New Year and Little Mochi Man, tired of being bullied for being small, decides to run away.

Join him on his adventures from the snowy mountains of Hokkaido, to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

With ‘origami’ puppets, animation and specially composed music, this is the perfect introduction to Japan for young children.

Wonderful monkey marionettes at the Puppet Theatre Barge and turns performed by monkey marionettes to music, with all the skill of the circus.

RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ www.atgtickets.com/venues/richmon d-theatre 27-31 March Thoroughly Modern Millie Winner of six Tony Awards, this takes you back to the height of the Jazz Age in 1920s New York City, when ‘moderns’ including a flapper named Millie Dillmount were bobbing their hair, raising their hemlines, entering the workforce and rewriting the rules of love.

SHAFTESBURY THEATRE 0330 333 4812, www.bearhuntlive.com 4 July - 2 September, We're going on a Bear Hunt The smash-hit production returns vividly and noisily to the West End in director Sally Cookson's fun-

filled adaptation set to Benji Bower's versatile lively score. Join the intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on a quest to find a bear. Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure. The production is adapted for the stage from the modern classic written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. Ages 3+, from £15.60.

THE UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com To 11 March Seesaw Being little can be hard work. There are holes to dig, sand castles to make, treasures to find, adventures to be had. It's much easier when you have a friend to help. But what if making friends is hard work too? Seesaw explores the push and pull of friendship, and the ups and downs of being very young. Age 3-6, the perfect first theatre show for tiny ones.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Little Venice, Blomfield Road W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com 24 March – 13 May The Birdman A poetic story about an old man who rescues a small bird that has fallen out of the nest. Staged with beautiful lighting and specially composed music.

24 March – 13 May Monkey Business Check out some exciting and hilarious tricks

© Lesley Cook

CAMBRIDGE THEATRE

We’re going on a Bear Hunt: a ‘must see’ show

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WHAT’S ON

LO OK O f NU or th UT ME e RO US

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FR EE

MUSEUMS, GALLERIES & DAYS OUT 12.15pm, 2pm, 3.15pm.

31 March and 1 April The Ugly Duckling Meet the most unlikely duckling hero and hear the story of the duck who was different. Featuring song and puppetry, The Ugly Duckling is a classic heart-warming tale for all the family. Age 3+, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2.30pm, 3.30pm (30 minute performance), from £1

AC TIV ITI ES

on the London of tomorrow. 48pm, FREE

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM Park Row, Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Saturdays in March Character Encounters Join an exciting performance and journey bringing maritime history to life.

12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm, age 6+.

KENSINGTON PALACE Ink Stamped Poems at the Foundling Museum

CHARLES DICKENS MUSEUM 48 Doughty Street WC1N 2LX www.dickensmuseum.com Last Sunday of every month Highlighting the Collection Drop-in object handling sessions 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.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 13 April Ink Stamped Poems In this creative writing workshop, imagine animals featured in The Lost Words. Make rubber letter stamps and then write your own acrostic poem using stamped, printed and written words and pictures.

Age 5+, FREE 15 April A Funny Thing Happened A brilliant, fun, laugh out loud poetry show workshop where you get to change the world in your pocket. Warning – show contains rhymes and highly infectious laughter, make no plans for the next day. Aimed at children and families, this will be fun for the whole family. From £13, 3pm.

HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace Throughout March The Magic Garden Discover

50 Families South West • March 2018

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.

24 March – 14 April Lindt Gold Bunny Easter Hunt Hiding in the palace and gardens will be the Lindt Gold Bunny, with new stories to be discovered with every bunny found, before the chance to claim a delicious chocolate prize.

30 March – 2 April Cooking for the Court Head to the Tudor Kitchens for a chance to join the King’s Cooks and discover the truth behind Henry VIII and his legendary appetite. With the palace’s historic chefs providing live Tudor cookery demonstrations, uncover the secrets behind creating a dish fit for a king!

HORNIMAN MUSEUM AND GARDENS 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Throughout March Colour: The Rainbow Revealed Be dazzled by prisms showing how colours are made, peer through a giant human eyeball to find out how we see colour, discover how animals use colour to attract and hide, and look into how different colours mean different things across the planet. FREE 30 March and 2 April A World of Stories Hear some seasonal tales from wonderful storytellers. Age 5+, 11am,

W8 4PX hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace 25 March Funtastic Sundays Fun-filled activity days for families with the chance to try out the palace’s activity bags and trails, enjoy Story Time or take part in special creative workshops.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Throughout March Poster Girls Girl power comes to Covent Garden when Poster Girls - a major new exhibition about 20th and 21st century female graphic artists opens at the Museum.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Throughout March Whales Beneath the Surface A major new exhibition exploring the extraordinary life of whales.

ROYAL OBSERVATORY GREENWICH Blackheath Avenue SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory Weekends in March Weekend Space Cadets Family workshops related to space science and space exploration; from the International Space Station to the latest discoveries about the Solar System and the wider universe. 12.45pm, from 5+, FREE

MUSEUM OF LONDON EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sundays in March Museum Explored Explore the galleries through fun, hands-on activities. 11am and 2pm. Plus, join a fun and engaging tour of the museum’s galleries, especially for families. Age 5+, 2-2.30pm.

Sundays in March Hands-on history Hear incredible London stories as you touch and hold real museum objects. Age 5+, 2-4pm.

17 March Our Future City Young Londoners takeover the museum with this special event.

It’s all about London: what it is, who shapes it, and what it should be like in the future. In response to the City Now City Future season this event highlights the opinions, creativity and actions of Young Londoners through music, performance, interactive workshops and collective art making. Join in with your thoughts

SCIENCE MUSEUM Exhibition Road, South Kensington SW7 2DD Sciencemuseum.org.uk Throughout March Wonderlab: The Statoil Gallery Don’t miss out on this fantastic new interactive gallery with live demonstrations and an Explainerled experience revealing the beauty and wonder in the science and mathematics that shape our lives. Truly fascinating! £8/£6.

TOWER OF LONDON St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london Throughout March 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.

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Selected Sundays to 2 April Twilight Tours Take in worldfamous sights such as Traitor’s Gate, the scaffold site and the Bloody Tower, and be appalled and amazed by tales of prisoners and past residents. Age 12+, 6.45pm, from £25.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk To 20 May Sister Brother The roles we are given within the family group are embedded from an early age and become defining elements of who we are. This set of portraits by Madeleine Waller aims to explore sibling relationships and how they affect our sense of identity.

From 30 March Century of the Child, Nordic Design for Children 1900 to Today The 20th century’s most iconic and influential Nordic designs for children, from BRIO to LEGO, Marimekko and the Moomins have been brought together for the first time in this stunning new exhibition.

To 31 March Defend the Tower! England’s greatest medieval fortress is under attack! Relive the life and death struggles to overcome its mighty defences in this live performance drama.

•If you have any events for inclusion, please send to whatson@FamiliesSW.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

ART ACTIVITIES V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk 24 March Toddler Art Class Join artists Albert Potrony and Aya Kobayashi for an exciting morning of open ended and exploratory, 10.30am1pm, age 6 months – 4 years.

LANDMARK ARTS CENTRE Ferry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN www.landmarkartscentre.org 24 March Kids’ ART Club Fun workshops with a different project for each session including drawing, painting, relief making, printing and collage.

10am-12pm, age 5-11, £13.50.

TATE BRITAIN Millbank SW1P 4RG www.tate.org.uk Dates in March Under Fives Explore the Gallery Experiment with a range of materials while discovering exciting routes and journeys through the galleries alongside other families.

HORNIMAN MUSEUM AND GARDENS 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk 3 and 17 March Art Makers Have fun with different art techniques to create

Horniman Museum and Gardens Art Makers something fabulous to take home inspired by the Horniman’s collections or seasonal celebrations. Different themes each week. 1.30pm & 2.45pm, £3, age 3+

V & A MUSEUM Cromwell Road SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk/families Throughout March Family Activities Pick up a family trail from the Information Desk and explore the museum through puzzles, drawing and observation. There are also hundreds of exciting hands-on exhibits containing plenty to touch and try out, plus regular activities and workshops for ages 7-12.

palettes. All ages, 1.30pm–4.30pm,

FREE

SIR JOHN SOANE’S MUSEUM 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields WC2A 3PB www.soane.org Third Saturday of the month Free drop-in activities for all ages.

1.30-4.40pm.

THE NATIONAL GALLERY Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sunday in March Family Sundays Art activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 2pm, age 5-11, FREE

FREE

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY St Martin's Place WC2H 0HE www.npg.org.uk Every third Sunday of the month Drop In Family Sundays Dropin with children aged 3+ to take part in portrait-related events.

FREE

THE WALLACE COLLECTION Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org First Sunday of the month The Little Draw Meet artist Grace Holliday and use specialist drawing, handling and surface design techniques to respond to the stimulating forms and colour

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TATE MODERN Bankside, SE1 9TG www.tate.org.uk Throughout March Family Friendly Art Activities A range of free arty and crafty workshops, see website for details.

FREE

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY Gallery Road, Dulwich Village SE21 7AD www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk First and last Sunday of each month Art Play Creative drop-in workshops for adults and children, with a different activity each session. Make anything and everything from bunting to block printing and all things in between.

2-3.45pm.

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