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IN THIS ISSUE Great competitions Unique animal encounters Ice Cream Farm walk Why play is so important Four pages of What’s On
Issue 153 March/April 2022 familiesonline.co.uk
familiesonline.co.uk 1
Family News
Win! Be a Little Supernova Why children fight Covid better Scientists at University College London have revealed that children are much less likely to become ill with Covid because their immune systems are better able to recognise dangerous viruses. Adults have a more adaptive immune system, containing memory type cells which have been trained through past exposure to respond to a particular threat. Dr Masahiro Yoshida, an author of the study, said: ‘Because Sars-CoV-2 is a new virus, it isn’t something that the adaptive immune system of adults has learned to respond to. The innate immune system of children is more flexible and better able to respond to new threats.’
s Box of Flit Edie and the
THE LOST PROPERTY OFFICE
More at www.sanger.ac.uk/news
Performing arts are a great way for children to explore who they are and for learning to interact with others, as well as having fun, and what better way to get immersed in that than a holiday club?
Imagine you’re a fox: fun is only a whisker away
We love the arts, so Families North London has teamed up with Little Supernovas to offer readers the chance to win a place on their May holiday workshop. Little Supernovas has run creative, imaginative holiday clubs for almost a decade. In their action-packed sessions, children create art, props and even better - their very own stories! The award-winning holiday clubs, for children aged 4 to 9, end with a short performance which is sent to parents via email. ‘Every school has beautiful, high-quality crafts, lots of fun and interactive storytelling. All staff are trained, enthusiastic and DBS checked,’ said Brooke Dunbar, founder and director. Little Supernovas is running an Easter School and a May School at All Saints Church, Highgate, with a lovely outdoor space. For a chance to win one place on the May Holiday School – that’s the whole three days – go to bit.ly/compMA22. This offer is open to children 5 to 8 years. Entry closes on April 20. See terms and conditions at bit.ly/SupernovasTCs Easter Holiday School, from April 4-8. May Holiday School from May 30 to June 1. Day bookings and week bookings. Early drop-off and late pick-up can be booked. A sibling discount code must be requested by email (hello@littlesupernovas.com) before booking.
littlesupernovas.com
Lost and Found London Transport Museum
N22
Easter Holidays 2-18 April Discover the curious world of London Transport’s Lost Property Office.
LTM
Meet children’s authors Emily Rand and Kate Wilkinson on selected dates. Book at ltmuseum.co.uk
and Found_Print ad_Families Mag_180x130mm_AW.indd 1 2 2022.012_M_Easter Families North Lost London
KIDS GO FREE
16/02/2022 13:41
Have some splashing fun this Easter. Check our What’s On listings for activities, days out and holiday clubs. Photo: The Pirate Castle, Camden. thepiratecastle.org/holidayscheme
Families North London Magazine
2
Editor: Amanda
4 News & Views
Greenley
T: 07359 133954 E: editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk
March April 2022 Issue 153
Win! A place at Little Supernovas May holiday workshops
6 What to do if you don’t get your first choice school
Families North London is part of Families print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The content of Famileis North London are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photogrpahic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent from Families North London. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families North London, our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing can not be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
8 Using play to nurture emotional intelligence 9 Top apps every parent needs 11 How to talk to your child about racial discrimination
13 Win! A Map of Wonders 12 Enjoy a sweet, sweet Ice Cream Farm walk 13 Explore these unique UK animal encounters 14 FOUR pages of What’s On where – theatre, museums, activities 18 From cookery to kayaking – check out these holiday clubs 19 Purple Pages classifieds
Advertise in our next issue. Contact us on 07359 133954. editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk
Follow us on social media and stay up to date, informed and entertained. Tweet us on Find us on @familiesnorthlondon @FamiliesNthLon
LOOKING FOR CHILDCARE? Multi award-winning Holiday Camps for children aged 4-11 Offering only the best in childcare and music
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Contents
Include us on @familiesnorthlondon
The Grove
Nursery and Preschool Space to Explore and Grow
Specialist providers of education and childcare for 0-5 year olds The Grove 91 Shepperton Road Islington London N1 3DF Tel: 02072264037 www.thegrovenursery.co.uk 3
Family News
Future authors publish family past Pupils at Hyland House School are getting their first taste of being published authors. The school, in Tottenham, is taking the work from a whole-school project and turning it into a book. Children were asked to write about a family member or hero who migrated to England from abroad, detailing their loved one’s journey to success along with nuggets of wisdom that their special person has for the younger generation. “It’s so great to see these children training to be future international authors,” said Headteacher Jessica Lemonius. Email: info@hylandhouseschool.org Website: hylandhouseschool.org
Dads can drop in for T Dads can get together and exchange tips and experiences at a new free Drop-In Dads Group at T on the Green, Bruce Castle Park, Tottenham, on Saturdays 12-1.30pm and Tuesdays and Thursdays 3.30pm-5pm. Kids refreshments free. T on the Green, working with charity The Gifted, is looking for peer supporters for the group. Carol Hebbs, from T on the Green, which also runs a breastfeeding group, said: “You don’t need to be an expert. Just somebody who can share their experiences.” If you can help, Contact Carol at tonthegreen.friends@ hotmail.com
Night Hike for cancer Nightingale Cancer Support Centre’s Night Hike is back for 2022. Hundreds of people will gather together to walk 10km or 15km around the borough of Enfield, on May 20. And this will be the support centre’s 20th year of providing support to people across the borough. Sign up at nightingalesupport. org.uk/product/nighthike/
Calling all young Scientists! Help us discover how babies & kids learn! We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s Babylab & ToddlerLab in central London. Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses. We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies
020 3926 1207 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk 4
Families North London
Welcome
Spring beckons, the smell of daffodils is in the air – it’s time to wave goodbye to winter, recharge after the stresses of Omicron, and get out and about to enjoy ourselves. We’re focusing on FUN in this issue and on bringing you some great ideas for good times. You can win a Map of Wonders, or a place at Little Supernovas’ performing arts holiday club in our two great competitions. Take a trip to Lewis of London’s Ice Cream Farm and explore some unique animal experiences. And we take a look at how getting silly with play is a great boost to your child’s wellbeing. Don’t forget, there’s lots more interactive content including craft ideas and recipes in our digital magazine. Sign up to receive every issue straight to your inbox at families.mag.co.uk/go Happy Spring!
Amanda
Our school open days are now listed and updated online. Visit to view or scan the QR code Paper used to print Families North London is from fully-managed sustainable sources and is recyclable.
Top of the Pops One of North London’s own, Sashe Christopher, has been honoured in f:entrepreneur #ialso100’s list of inspirational female founders for her sustainable baby clothing – and to celebrate, Sashe is offering Families North London readers a 20 per cent discount on the entire range. Pop My Way features ingenious mix-andmatch essentials with interchangeable accessories designed to “pop” onto the garment. Add a splash of colour with a collar or bib and keep socks safe thanks to clever ankle poppers. The range is certified organic so everything is measurably sustainable - including cotton harvesting, environmental and social standards, packaging, and beyond with the Pop My Way Preloved scheme. Use code FAM20 at checkout (for T&Cs see her website’s FAQ). Thank you, Sashe. popmyway.co.uk Instagram: @pop_my_way
Want to work a few days a month? Have your own car? We need people to help distribute Families North London to schools, nurseries and other locations Get in touch and find out more: editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk
Family News
Chillax at Red Stairs soft play and cafe A great way for kids to de-stress and have fun is soft play, and there is a new kid on the block. Red Stairs Soft Play and Café has opened its doors. Based in Barnet High Street, it’s the ideal place to meet up with friends and catch up over a coffee and a bite to eat. Find Red Stairs at 101-107 High Street, Barnet, EN5 5UZ. Access is from the High Street, just inside the passage next to the Halifax. redstairssoftplay.co.uk
Plastic-free Red Nose Day Red Nose Day 2022 will return on March 18 with the wildest bunch of noses yet.
Free parking for blue badges Blue badge holders can now park free for three hours at Edmonton Green shopping centre, in line with its ethos to be the hub of the community and accessible to all. It previously introduced dementia-friendly maps and refurbished accessibility toilets. Pre-register badges and vehicles at edmontongreencentre.co.uk/parking-for-bluebadge-holders/, by email to EdmontonGreen@ashdownphillips. com or by popping into the management office in Market Square. Applies to Asda car park, multi-storey and North Square car park.
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CHILDCARE VOUCHERS ACCEPTED
Eight characters include the colourful Cam the chameleon. All noses will be 100% plastic-free, making them green as well as red. To create your own fundraiser for Comic Relief, which campaigns to raise awareness of and end child poverty, or to donate, see www.rednoseday.com
An independent Catholic school for girls aged 4-11 with a brand new co-educational nursery for children aged 2.5 to 4. St. Anthony’s Schools provide a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment where children flourish academically, socially and spiritually.
To book a private tour, please contact 020 3869 3070 info@stanthonysgirls.co.uk Ivy House, North End Road, London, NW11 7SX familiesonline.co.uk SAG and Nursery Fabric half page v1.indd 1
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Education Forest School helps wellbeing Up close with nature. Photo: Coco Jones
Lockdowns have taught us just how good nature is for us. In a survey 83 per cent of children said being in nature makes them happy. However, despite recommendations that children need at least two hours of physical play outdoors a day, many barely get two hours a week. Good quality Forest School programmes offer experience of all seasons and weathers. Qualified leaders empower children to manage their own risks, minimise the ecological impact of their activities and caring for nature. The Forest School Association forestschoolassociation. org has a directory of recognised providers at bit. ly/ForestSchoolProviders, as well as FSA-endorsed trainers if you want to become a leader, with local affiliated support groups at bit.ly/ForestSchoolGroups By Sarah Lawfull, an Education Consultant, Coach, Forest School Trainer and Forest School Association Chair.
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Families North London
Help! We didn’t get our first choice school School allocation day is almost upon us. Thankfully, almost 92 per cent of families are given their first-choice primary and 98 per cent get one of their listed preferences. In secondary, 96 per cent of students get one of their listed schools. But what about those who do not? Here are three suggestions: Give the allocated option a chance If you do not know much about the school, get nosey on their website and call to see if you can visit. In many cases, second or third choices turn out to be brilliant and families are really pleased with the decision. Get on the waiting lists Plenty changes between the Spring and September and there is still a good chance you can get a space at your first-choice school or another you feel happier about. Depending on your local authority procedures, you may automatically go on a waiting list or you may need to request this with your local authority or directly with the school. Appeal. Although this can be challenging, it may be worth a shot and shows you are serious about wanting a place at that school. Your local authority website should explain the appeals process. Sometimes the biggest issue is managing the disappointment you and your child might feel. Look after yourself and take some time to be sad, angry and frustrated. These are important and valid feelings. Telling your child Communicating positively with your child is important, so they don’t feel nervous about their new school. Tell them, there is a different school that wants them to join. Find some specific things about the school they will love, and give examples of a time when a plan has changed and something good has happened. Children of all ages are really receptive to these examples of bigger life lessons and it gives an opportunity to talk about how they feel. By Emma Lewry who co-owns Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd.co.uk/ links) which supports families to prepare for starting school through groups, courses and a school starters planner available from Amazon.
Education
A unique new Early Years experience
Outstanding north London prep school launches new 4+ provision Successful north London school group, North Bridge House, is introducing a new entry point to its high-achieving prep school at the edge of Regent's Park. From September 2022, fouryear-olds will be able to join the independent co-ed day school. Its current provision for seven to 13-yearolds is rated Outstanding by Ofsted, and now Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 classes will be added. North Bridge House Prep School is renowned for its impressive track record of 11+ and 13+ exam results and celebrated 15 scholarship offers in 2021. ‘It will continue to prepare children for entry to the UK’s top senior schools, now with a new Early Years curriculum designed specifically around this longterm goal,’ said headteacher James Stenning. ‘Reception is the start of pupils’ whole school career here at North Bridge House Prep School, and our Early Years
Children are prepared for the learning challenges ahead familiesonline.co.uk
curriculum has been mapped around pupils’ educational journey from start to finish,’ he said. The new Early Years and Key Stage 1 provision will expand on its specialist, individualised curriculum, maintaining small class sizes and incorporating everything from philosophy and Forest School, to French, drama, music and sport. Children will benefit from a rich and varied academic and extracurricular programme, progressing to a Key Stage 2 curriculum designed to further build cultural literacy. ‘Our curriculum is grounded in the strongest evidence about how children learn and retain knowledge in the long-term,’ said Mr Stenning. ’Initiatives such as Forest School and Philosophy teach soft skills that aid higher cognitive abilities, including critical thinking and information processing, while key problem-solving skills are embedded into all aspects of children’s work,’ he added.
The new facilities are innovative with multi-functional indoor and outdoor teaching spaces, including the children’s very own rooftop science garden so they can learn and play among nature. North Bridge House Prep School is a popular choice among North London parents who want the option of the UK’s leading destination schools, or a stress-free all-through education which does not compromise on academic excellence. Internal students are prioritised for places at the highachieving NBH Senior Schools. Mr Stenning added: ‘By accommodating children from the start of their school journey, NBH Prep presents a seamless approach to individually preparing pupils for every path to success.’ Book a visit at northbridgehouse.com/ open or call 020 7428 1520 for more information
Pupils benefit from a rich and varied programme to build cultural literacy
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Parenting
Nurturing emotional intelligence through play
By Dr Anne Lane
When my daughter was in her first year at nursery her favourite game was pretending to say goodbye to me. ‘Bye Mama, I’ve got to go.’ ‘Oh no! You’re not going...’ I’d say. The more I sighed: ‘Don’t go,’ the more she’d giggle and run off. These moments helped my daughter process her separation from me at nursery and reassured her. For a child, life can be full of emotional demands. One of the most effective ways to help children navigate these is through play. Simple, giggly, repetitive play helps children develop a resilience and familiarity with situations and can dispel tension and anxiety. Role-playing real scenarios allows them to reflect on their reactions and beliefs about a situation. They can steady their emotions and become more nuanced and agile in their reactions. The most important aspect of play is that it feels safe. In the real world, people can be cross and make your child feel uncertain. But in the world of play, they get to feel empowered.
Top tips for playing Concentrate less on conversation and more on acting things out. Taking the focus away from language allows your child to relax and connect. Follow the laughter. When your child laughs, they release fear and tension. Let your child be the boss. If you can, get down to their level. If your child seems uncertain, slow down. Tickling can be overwhelming and intense. Prioritise play which creates collaboration, as well as laughter. Play doesn’t have to be over-planned. Some of my children’s favourite games involve me simply looking surprised or pretending to sleep on the sofa! Dr Anne Lane is a clinical psychologist and author. Her new book Nurture Your Child’s Emotional Intelligence: 5 Steps to Help Your Child Cope with Big Emotions and Build Resilience is out now.
School tests don’t affect wellbeing ADVERTISEMENT BOOKING SIGN OFF Primary school tests do not seem to have a significant effect on the wellbeing and happiness of children, according to research by University College London. It suggested there was little difference in levels of wellbeing and happiness reported by children, regardless of whether they took Key Stage two tests or not. The research also found there was no evidence to show that pupils who were happier or more self-confident in the build-up to the tests achieved higher scores. More at www.york.ac.uk/news-and-events
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Families North London
Parenting
Top apps every parent needs By Ari Last It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of apps available in the App Store and you’d be forgiven for wondering how many are truly worthwhile. When it comes to parenting though, getting good apps on speed dial can really save time if you’re looking to keep the children entertained, connect with other like-minded parents, research childcare options or seek guidance on how to make family life that bit easier. Here are some recommendations: Mush (letsmush.com) The number one social app for mums to find friends who live nearby with kids the same age, arrange to meet up and get advice from parenting experts and fellow mums. Allrecipes Dinner Spinner A handy bank of recipes and cooking inspiration which keeps solving the ‘what can I make for dinner?’ question and keeps little bellies satisfied every evening. The Wonder Weeks (bit.ly/WonderWeeksApp) A week-by-week guide to your baby’s development right through from pregnancy to after birth, showing how you can support and stimulate your little one.
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Sound Sleeper (soundsleeperapp.com) Help your baby get off to sleep with this app’s collection of calming sounds. Kidday (kidday.com) The easiest way to store your child’s photographs in one place, as well as share albums with friends and family. Family Locator (family-locator.com) When older children or teenagers are out and about, keep track of their location with this app which keeps your family secure and connected, for extra peace of mind. CBeebies (bbc.co.uk/cbeebies) This staple app on any parent’s phone or tablet offers educational games as well as classic cartoons, for when you just need a break!
Bubble (joinbubble.com) The UK’s biggest on-demand childcare platform, with over 100,000 users and 5-star Trustpilot rating. Parents use the bubble app to find, book and pay local sitters or nannies who come recommended from their friends and other parents in their area. OLIO (olioex.com) Here you can give away unwanted kids’ items to those in the local area, allowing you to help out a neighbour and reduce waste. You can also use the app to look for anything you might happen to need and save some pennies. Ari Last is a parenting guru and founder of childcare app Bubble. For more information, visit www.joinbubble.com
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Education
Perform classes build your child’s confidence Perform puts children’s social development at the heart of their weekly sessions for 4-7s and 7-12s. Using performing arts-based games and inspiring activities, their classes are designed to boost confidence, build concentration, develop communication skills and hone coordination – and are brimming with fun and laughter too. Run by professionally trained actors, dancers and singers, classes are kept small to ensure individual attention, with regular progress reports provided. Fantastic termly resources – such as free apps, music downloads and dance videos support each theme, meaning the fun continues at home. But don’t just take Perform’s word for it, see what parents say by visiting www.perform.org.uk
“The beaming smile you see when Annabelle finishes a class is so wonderful to see. She has grown in confidence and thoroughly enjoys it’. – Katie Pashley Children can join at any point during the term and will still take part in the end of term performance. Classes are for all abilities; children just need to arrive ready to have the best fun of the week! Book a no-obligation FREE trial class to get started at perform.org.uk/try. Families readers receive a £40 discount when booking before 31st March, just quote LN310322. Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk perform.org.uk/try
Free 11+ book offer As thousands of children prepare to sit the 11+ exams for entry into popular grammar schools such as Dame Alice Owen’s. Henrietta Barnett, St Michael’s, Queen Elizabeth’s Boys’ School, The Latymer School to name a few, parents are always on the lookout for useful resources to assist them. Leading 11+ mock test provider Mock Test Masters is offering Families North London readers a FREE copy of its ebook. Mock Test Masters is a specialist in knowing just how to help children. Sandra Nicol, of Mock Test Masters which has mock test dates coming up, said: ‘Our comprehensive feedback reports not only highlight a child’s strengths and weaknesses but also the specific skills that the child needs to master. The report is quite detailed and unique.’ For your copy of ‘How to use mock tests to gain a competitive advantage in the 11+ exams’ visit www.mocktestmasters.co.uk
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Bigger veg portions encourage kids to eat more A study by US researchers has found adding more veggies to children’s plates resulted in them eating more vegetables at a meal. Researchers found that when they doubled the amount of corn and broccoli served the children ate 68 per cent more of the veggies. Serving fruit and vegetable side dishes alongside a meal was slightly less effective. Co-author Barbara Rolls says the findings offer an easy strategy for encouraging healthy eating and stresses that half of the food on a child’s plate should be fruit and vegetables. If you find this method increases waste, just replace some of the more filling food on the plate with even more vegetable produce, she suggests. More at www.sciencedaily.com/releases
JOIN US THIS EASTER HOLIDAY FOR AN ACTION-PACKED WEEK OF FUN AND FRIENDSHIP
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Families North London
KS1 SATs Revision for Year 2
British Science Week is a ten-day celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths from 11 to 20 March. A range of FREE activity packs and other resources suitable for all age groups can also be downloaded for fun family activities in the home. To find a local event, visit www.britishscienceweek.org
Education
How to talk about racial discrimination By Suzanne Brown All parents dream of a world where their children are treated fairly, free of the various discriminations which exist. But how do we achieve this? Teach kindness: From babyhood we can teach our children to be givers and receivers of kind words and actions. When kindness is second nature it helps avoid situations in which discrimination arises. Teach justice: Explore what young children think is fair and unfair. Then, at your child’s level and pace, expand discussions to incorporate an understanding of racial justice. Model good behaviour: Remember, children are always watching, listening and learning from us, particularly from our sub-conscious actions.
The Grove
Nursery and Preschool
Springing back at The Grove Parents are being invited to attend nursery with their children, at The Grove, Islington, to make something amazing together in creative workshops, and the nursery is reaching out to parents in other ways. It has a ‘swap facility’ for exchanging children’s items and provides support and advice to families, with focuses such as children’s health and behaviour. But it’s the children who have the most fun. The highlyrespected nursery runs weekly sessions of Forest School, sports school, yoga, diddi dance and music, as well as French and Spanish, and, after all the excitement, children can relax in The Grove’s cosy dens, in each of its rooms. ‘Our last Ofsted found staff have ‘high expectations of all children’ and ‘adapt activities effectively to meet each child’s next steps in learning’,’ said director Rebecca Browne. ‘At The Grove you can feel assured that your child is in safe and loving hands within a caring and supportive environment,’ she added. The Grove is taking bookings now for personal tours. Register early to avoid disappointment. Call 02072264037.
Use resources: There is a wealth of TV programmes, films, YouTube videos, racially diverse toys and books. See our resource list at www.bit.ly/FamiliesResources
FUN FRENCH LESSONS
Building articulate children: Children who have the verbal ability to cope with wordplay will be less likely to be browbeaten by hurtful ‘jokes’ of a racial, or other, nature. Build articulation with stories, role play and family discussions for older children. Teach children to make the best of themselves: In our house we like to call it building their superpowers. Whatever it is – patience, sense of humour, artistic talent – celebrate it. Finally, don't feel you need to be an expert on racial discrimination. The important thing is that our children see we are open to talk and willing to learn.
Building identity Pride in ethnicity Whatever your child’s ethnic origin, they should wear it as a badge of honour, because that’s what it is. There is so much richness in everybody’s cultural background: language, cuisine, festivals, religion, traditional dress, songs, country flags, family stories. Your child’s genuine pride in their roots will shine through and help create a strong armour against any negativity they may face. Stories Can your child draw parallels between the characters in books from around the world and themselves? The less children see different cultures as ‘other’ to themselves the better. There is more that unites us than divides us. We all belong to one race: the human race!
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Out & About
WIN! A Map of Wonders and let adventure unfold There are so many amazingly adventure-filled things to do in Britain that it’s hard to understand them all without a ginormous map! That’s where ST&G’s Amazingly Adventure-Filled Great British Map of Wonders comes in. Budding explorers will discover 1,000 of the funnest things to do and places to go around Britain on this massive map – from theme parks, festivals and museums to brilliant beaches, cycle routes and cool castles. And that’s not all – there are great games to play, tick boxes and notes to fill in, and even a huge map you can colour in, on the back.
And we have FIVE of these wonderful maps to be won. For your chance to win go to bit.ly/compMA22. Entry closes on April 30. See T+Cs at bit.ly/mapTCs.
Spy a red squirrel These beauties can be easily spotted in one of their last strongholds, Yorkshire’s Widdale Squirrel Reserve. A special viewing area gives an ideal vantage point. www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/places/widdale/ Stay: Mary’s Cottage, Hawes
Walk alpacas Stroll through the countryside with an alpaca friend in tow at Spring Farm Alpacas in East Sussex, and spot other wildlife the farm has encouraged. www.springfarmalpacas.co.uk Stay: Gun Hill Cottage, Heathfield
Get out and go wild! From the cute to the awesome... Whether you dream of taking your family strolling with alpacas or heading out to the deep blue, these animal encounters will create lasting memories.
Stay: 2 Pencoose Barns, Truro
Families North London
Stay: Tirlaggan Studio, Oban
Kayak with seals
Wild badgers are elusive despite their size. Glimpse them at Dorset’s Old Henley Farm where guests can sit in two spacious hides.
The Pembrokeshire coast hosts one of the largest breeding Atlantic seal colonies in the world. Check out Mayberry Kayaking’s ‘seal guarantee’.
www.badgerwatchdorset.co.uk
www.mayberrykayaking.co.uk/seals-inpembrokeshire Stay: Maerdy Lodge, Haverfordwest
Herd sheep in the Lakes Get stuck into life on the farm with the truly unique Lake District Sheepdog Experience. Designed for beginners, one session will see you guiding your flock around a small course. Stay: Winster Fields, Windermere
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Whale watching might seem exotic but it is achievable here in the UK. Just off Scotland, near the islands of Tiree, Coll and Mull you can see Minke whale, dolphins and porpoises.
Spot badgers
Watch beavers
www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk
Go whale watching
Compiled by Yonder, a new travel brand that offers responsible and nature rich stays and experiences. All properties referred to in the article can be found on their website www.yonder.com
Stay: Shepherd’s Hut, Blandford Forum
After 400 years beavers are back thanks to the Cornwall Beaver Project and can be viewed on weekly beaver walks.
ST&G's Great British Map of Wonders is available at marvellousmaps. com – from £14.99 for the double-sided fold-out version. Marvellous Maps are dreamed up, designed and made in sunny Britain.
Out & About
Sundae walk Get out and about for an egg-stra special treat with a walk and trip to an Ice Cream Farm – yes you did read that correctly. Use our directions, below, to enjoy a country walk ending with a well-deserved indulgence at Lewis of London, Galley Lane, Barnet. Or just park up and enjoy! And from April 2 to 18, the ice cream farm has an Easter Eggs-plorer event every day with Easter activities and special ice cream flavours, among the 30 to try, as well as lambs and chicks to see. Ice cream is made in small batches on the family-run dairy farm and includes a dairy-free moo-less range. If you fancy an extra special treat, the ice cream parlour also serves waffles and sundaes, and you can enjoy a cup of coffee while the little ones explore the outdoor children’s playground and have a run around in the field. Open: Weds to Sun 10am to 4pm. From March 28, open seven days a week 10am to 5pm. Nearest postcode EN5 4AL Book Easter Eggs-plorer at lewisoflondon.co.uk
Walk up an appetite for a treat For a circular walk, park at Lewis of London, exit car park and turn left into Galley Lane. At the top of the hill, as Galley Lane bends to the left, follow the bridlepath to the right, through to Oaklands Lane. At the T-junction, turn right into Arkley Lane. Follow it as it becomes a bridlepath, until it meets a major footpath on the right, signposted ‘Galley Lane 740yds’. Turn right to head through Saffron Green Meadows and Wood, turning right at Galley Lane, until Lewis of London is on your left. Approx 1hr 30mins with children. For a shorter walk turn right out of Lewis of London and head to Saffron Green, enjoy the meadows and wood before returning. On public transport, exit High Barnet Tube Station, head to the lower station exit and walk up the road access. Turn right to walk up the hill and cross to Stop Q. Take the 107 towards Edgware. For a 10-15 min road walk, leave the bus at Galley Lane, by The Arkley Pub. Cross the road, beware of fast traffic, and walk down Galley Lane for about 10 to 15 minutes. Lewis of London is on the right, well signposted. For a longer walk, through fields and lanes – can be muddy, but pretty – get off two stops further at Quinta Drive, cross the road and join the circular walk at Arkley Lane. On return, leave the 107 at familiesonline.co.uk
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Whats On?
WHAT’S ON!
To have your event listed on these pages email the details to editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk Disclaimer: We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.
Family Theatre What’s On Every Friday Planet Play Until March 25. Restarts April 22. Magical, interactive, sensory show with songs, music and movement for 0-3s. Chicken Shed, Southgate, 10am & 11.30am. Adults £7.50, children & babies, free, must book. chickenshed.org.uk Every Saturday Tales from the Shed Until March 26. Restarts April 23. Vibrant, inclusive, informal and educational show. Suitable for 0-6s. Chicken Shed, Southgate, 10am & 11.30am. Adults & children £7. Under 6mths free, must book. chickenshed.org.uk Until April 16 Handa’s Surprise Travel to Kenya as Handa takes seven delicious fruits to her best friend Akeyo in the next village. But seven animals have other ideas. Suitable for 2-5s. Various times. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1. Adult £13.50, 1-17s £11.50, Fridays at 4.45pm £8. littleangeltheatre.com
Until April 24 The Singing Mermaid A singing mermaid is tricked into joining the circus. How will she get back to the sea? Suitable for 3-8s. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1. Various times. Adult £13.50, 1-17s £11.50, Fridays at 4.45pm £8. littleangeltheatre.com March 5 Baby Barrier Reef Show for 0-3s by Little Supernovas and Onceupona at Pickled Pepper Books, Enfield, EN2 6SN, 10am & 11.30am. From £7. pickledpepperbooks.co.uk March 5 I, Elizabeth Using only Elizabeth I’s words, this play explores the queen’s struggle, at 25, to reconcile womanhood with the duties of sovereignty. Suitable for 10+. Arts Depot, North Finchley. N12, 7.30pm. From £12. artsdepot.co.uk March 5 & 6 The Tinderbox & Other Nordic Tales Join storyteller Grethe Mangala Jenson for fun, interactive adaptations of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales. Suitable for 3+. 11am & 2pm.
Jackson’s Lane, N6. £5 Jacksonslane.org.uk March 6 Hebrew Children’s Theatre Festival Including The Lion and the Mouse, The Emperor’s New Clothes and an original play for teenagers, Until Further Notice. £5 per show. JW3, Finchley Road, NW3. Various times. jw3.org.uk Multi-Coloured Fairy Tales Interactive puppet show where everyday life becomes a miracle. Suitable for 2-5s. 3pm. JW3, Finchley Road, NW3. £7. jw3.org.uk Stan Stan’s world turns upside down when his parents separate, until he meets Alex, a deaf girl with a powerful imagination and a shared love of dinosaurs. Signed. Suitable for 7-11s. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. 11am & 2pm. From £9. artsdepot.co.uk March 12 Grandad’s Attic Walter’s grandchildren stumble on his attic and discover a world they never knew he lived in. A story about love, loss and special relationships. Suitable for 6+. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. 4.30pm & 7pm. £12. artsdepot.co.uk March 13 The Elves and the Shoemaker Theatre of Widdershins brings to life the classic fable using magical puppets, intricate design, music and the simplest of dialogue. Suitable for 3+. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. 11am & 2pm. From £9. artsdepot.co.uk Party Afonso wants to go to his best friend’s birthday party, but the whole thing is fraught with worries. Full of quirky humour. Suitable for 2-5s. 12noon & 3pm, Jacksons Lane, N6. £9.95. Jacksonslane.org.uk
Part of Family Weekend 2022
March 16 Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Show Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. 12noon, £12. artsdepot.co.uk
balletLORENT The Lost Happy Endings
15 – 16 April
15 & 16 April Xenia Aidonopoulou & Georgia Tegou – Underwater, Lillian Baylis Studio created for babies 0-24 months and their grown up’s 14
Families North London
March 17 Jina and the Stem Sisters Lost Jina is helped home by some of history’s super-STEM women, including Marie Curie and Ada Lovelace. Suitable for 7+. 10am & 1.15pm. Millfield Theatre, N18. £10. millfieldtheatre.co.uk March 20 Jabala and the Jinn A little girl’s encounter with a very cheeky Jinn. Told using physical theatre, original music and vivid design. Suitable for 5-11s. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. 12noon & 3pm, from £9. artsdepot.co.uk March 20 Tweet, tweet! Ćwir, ćwir! Tíst, tíst! Interactive and accessible storytelling adventure in English, Polish and birdsong. 12noon & 3pm. At Jacksons Lane, N6. Jacksonslane.org.uk March 26 Piste, Piste, Piste Movement, illusion, circus skills and handmade image projections, tell the
story of two characters who, one day, discover three little dots…Suitable for 4+. 12noon & 3pm. Jacksons Lane, N6. £9.95. Jacksonslane.org.uk March 27 Party Afonso wants to go to his best friend’s birthday party, but the whole thing is fraught with worries. Full of quirky humour. Suitable for 2-5s. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. 11am & 2pm. From £9. artsdepot.co.uk April 1 Baby Broadway Family Concert Songs from favourite shows and films sung by West End singers. Expect bubbles, poetry and dance moves. Suitable for all. 10am & 11.30am. Chickenshed, Southgate. £7, under 6mths free. chickenshed.org.uk April 2-5 The Smartest Giant in Town Musical, puppet-filled adaptation of the bestselling book – a heartwarming tale of helping those in need. Suitable for 2-8s. Various times. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. Relaxed performance April 3, 2pm. From £9. artsdepot.co.uk April 3 Book Buzz Celebration of books and reading, with storytelling, workshops, craft and a book swap, at Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12, from 10am. Free. artsdepot.co.uk April 5-7 Oh no, George! Delightful tale of a dog who wants to be good but just can’t resist temptation. With acrobatics and slapstick comedy. Sign supported. Suitable for 3+. 11am & 2pm. Jacksons Lane, N6. Jacksonslane.org.uk April 9 Tom Brace: Embrace the Impossible! Family-friendly circus show. Suitable for 8+. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. 7pm, from £9. artsdepot.co.uk April 8-16 Alice and the Chocolate Factory Easter Pantomime with Alice and The Hatter. Various times. Millfield Theatre, N18. £17.50, concs £14.50 millfieldtheatre.co.uk April 9-14 Easter Tales from the Shed Meet new characters, in this Easter special, addition to the regular Saturday shows. 10.30am & 11am. Chickenshed Theatre, Southgate. £7, under 6mths free. chickenshed.org.uk April 10 Slime Slug wants to befriend caterpillar to reach the last leaf in the garden but caterpillar thinks slug is disgusting. Hilarious show told with a handful of words, all signed, and lots of slime. Suitable for 2-5s. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. 11am & 2pm. Tickets from £9. artsdepot.co.uk The Circus Sonas Family Show Family-friendly circus show with a unique and modern twist. Suitable for 5+. 12noon & 3pm. Jacksons Lane, N6. £10.95. Jacksonslane.org.uk
Whats On? April 11 The Not So Ugly Sisters New retelling of Cinderella from the perspective of her sisters. Suitable for 4-104s. 12noon & 3pm. Jacksons Lane, N6. £12.95. Jacksonslane.org.uk April 12 Twirlywoos Live! Fun & laughter with inventive puppetry. 1pm & 3.30pm. Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar. £14. tickets.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk April 12-16 Oi Frog & Friends Olivier Award-winning action-packed adaptation of the best-selling book. Expect songs, puppets, laughs and rhymes, rhymes, rhymes. Various times. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. April 14, relaxed performance 11am, BSL 2pm. From £9 artsdepot.co.uk April 13 So You Think You Know About Dinosaurs…?! Hit show with dinosaur aficionado Dr Ben Garrod. 3pm. Suitable for 5+. Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar. From £12. tickets.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk April 14 Easter Planet Play Easter session of the regular show from the Tales from the Shed team, especially for 0-3s. 10am. Chickenshed Theatre, Southgate. Adults £7.50. Babies and children free. Must book. Chickenshed.org.uk
April 15-16 The Lost Happy Endings BalletLORENT at Sadler’s Wells, Angel, explore what happens when the happy endings are stolen. Magical girl Jub must go on a quest to find them. Packed with spirit, adventure and glorious surprises. Suitable for 5+. Various times. From £18. sadlerswells.com Family Dance Workshops For children and their families based around music and dance in show The Lost Happy Endings. 1pm & 2pm. Studio C – Sadler’s Wells, Angel. £2. sadlerswells.com April 20-May 1 Jina and the Stem Sisters Lost Jina is helped home by some of history’s super-STEM women, including Marie Curie and Ada Lovelace. Suitable for 7+. Various times. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1. Adult £13.50, 1-17s £11.50, Fridays at 4.45pm £8 littleangeltheatre.com April 22 Jekyll & Hyde For older children studying GCSE, this will bring the tale to life. 7.30pm. Culture Palace Downstairs, Unit 27-30, Palace Gardens Shopping Centre, EN2. £10, concs £8. dugdalecentre.co.uk April 23 Bug Ball Show for 0-3s by Little Supernovas and Onceupona at Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL, 10am & 11.30am. From £9.50 pickledpepperbooks.co.uk
ug A 8 2 – l u J 12
KIDS GOICE* HALF PR * Mon-Thurs, excl Band AA. Subject to availability. Offers may be withdrawn at any time.
familiesonline.co.uk
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Whats On? April 24 Vixen There is hidden beauty and friendships that don’t follow the rules, in this tale of Saffi 11, who is turning into a fox. Suitable for 7+. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. 11am & 2pm. From £9 artsdepot.co.uk Norvil & Josephine Magic Show Comedy, magic and variety like no other. Suitable for all. 3pm. Jacksons Lane, N6. £9.95. Jacksonslane.org.uk April 30 Bug Ball Show for 0-3s by Little Supernovas and Onceupona at Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL, 10am & 11.30am. From £9.50 pickledpepperbooks.co.uk April 30 & May 1 Mischief & Mystery in Moominvalley Delightful show using puppetry, ingenious pop-up book set and interactive storytelling. 11am, 1pm, 3pm. Jacksons Lane, N6. £9.95. Jacksonslane.org.uk May 1 SPLAT! Physical comedy as two artists try to complete their works while antagonising each other, taking a journey through the history of visual art. Suitable for 3-6s. Arts Depot, North Finchley, N12. 11am & 2pm. From £9 artsdepot.co.uk
May 2 Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Show Arts Depot, N12. 12noon, £12. artsdepot.co.uk May 7 Bug Ball Show for 0-3s by Little Supernovas and Onceupona at Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8P, 10am & 11.30am. From £9.50 pickledpepperbooks.co.uk May 8 Little Grimm Tales What if wishes were granted? What If magic were real. Head into the woods for a stunning adaptation of favourite tales. Suitable for 3+. Arts Depot, N12. 11am & 2pm. From £9 artsdepot.co.uk May 15 Roald Dahl & the Imagination Seekers All around the world, Roald Dahl’s words are disappearing. Only a secret organisation can stop it and they need your help. Suitable for 6-11s. Arts Depot, N12. 11am & 2pm. From £9 artsdepot.co.uk
Events What’s On Every Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday Dad’s drop-in group T on The Green, Bruce Castle Park, N17. Sat 12-1.30pm, Tues and Thurs 3.30pm-5pm. Free children’s refreshments. tonthegreen.co.uk
A FIERYLIGHT & LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE CO-PRODUCTION
Sundays Crafternoon Until March 27, except March 20, and from April 24. For 3-8s and their families. 2pm-4.30pm. JW3, Finchley Road, NW3. Free. Drop in. jw3.org.uk Family Art & Craft Bruce Castle Museum hosts art, crafts and poetry led-workshops, Suitable for 4-12s, must be accompanied. Free. Plus it has a Mystery Manor Trail with sticker booklet for £1, and a Tree Trail. bit.ly/brucecastle Tuesdays (except April 5) Interactive Storytelling Engaging, sensory stories for children age 0-5, with Little Supernovas and Onceupona, 10am and 10.35am, The Woodman, N6. £6 for adult and child. £10 for adult and 2 children. littlesupernovas.com Tuesdays and Fridays in term-time Singing and Story Sessions London Transport Museum, WC2. For under5s. Various times. ltmuseum.co.uk Ongoing Mac’s Indoor and Outdoor Trails Family discovery trails at Kenwood House, Hampstead Lane, NW3. Family Events have been on hold, but check out english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/places/kenwood/families/ Forty Hall, Enfield, EN2 Features interactive children’s exhibition about the lives of children who may have lived and worked there. Free. Or help Rip the dog find his bones and win a small prize. £2.50. Open 11am-4pm Sat and Sun. From April, open Thurs to Sun. fortyhallestate.co.uk RAF Museum Colindale. Has several family trails, interactive exhibits in RAF: First To The Future – Free entry. And paid-for exhibits, 4D theatre, flight simulator and Spitfire Experience. Open every day. 10am -5pm. Parking charge. rafmuseum.org.uk Grant Museum of Zoology Get to know your dodo from your quagga. Tues-Fri 1pm-5pm. Sat 11am-5pm. Free, no booking required. 21 University St, WC1. ucl.ac.uk/culture/grant-museum-zoology
EASTER HOLIDAY TREAT!
Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology Amazing artefacts tell the stories of ordinary people from Ancient Egypt and Sudan. Tues-Fri 1pm-5pm. Sat 11am-5pm. Free, no booking required. Malet Place. WC1. ucl.ac.uk/culture/petrie-museum
A musical adaptation of the bestselling book by
SAT 2 - TUE 5 APR www.artsdepot.co.uk
The Smartest Giant in Town © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2002 – Macmillan Children’s Books
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Families North London
Until May 25 UNIQLO Tate: Make Studio Free drop-in workshops for families to rip, snip, stick and cut, to create something inspired by what’s on display at Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1. Families with under-5s on Weds. All welcome Sat-Sun. tate.org.uk Until Jun 5 The Laughter Lab The Cartoon Museum. Join a mass experiment to explore the psychology behind cartoon humour. Closed Mondays. Wells St, W1A. cartoonmuseum.org
Wildlife Photographer of the Year 100 powerful photographs tell the story of a planet under pressure. Paid for exhibit. Museum Free. Natural History Museum, Exhibition Road, SW7 nhm.ac.uk Until July 27 The World of Stonehenge British Museum.WC1B Paid for. britishmuseum.org March 5, 12 & 26 Thurs to Sun in school hols Story Space Celebrating inclusive books about children. Read to yourself, someone else or join this storytelling event at 12noon. Tate Britain, Millbank, SW1. Free with entry ticket. Must book. tate.org.uk March 7 Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz The Griffin, Whetstone, N20. 122.30pm. Book at bringyourbaby.org March 10 Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz The Palm, Tottenham, N15. 122.30pm. Book at bringyourbaby.org March 12, 19 & 26 The Little Red Hen By puppetellers Clogless Lobster at Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL. 10am & 11.30am for 0-3s, 20 mins story and 20 mins sensory and meet the puppets. 3.30pm for 2-5s, full 45-min telling. From £9.50. pickledpepperbooks.co.uk March 12-13 Crafterama Alexandra Palace. Exhibition for growing or grown-up crafters, with making sessions. Adult day £5.50, 5-12 years £1.10, weekender £7.70. alexandrapalace.com/whats-on/ crafterama March 13 Family Takeover: Building as Body Play and make with materials to explore structures and skeletons, led by artist Amy Leung, at Camden Art Centre, NW3. Suitable for 3-12 years. 2pm-4.30pm Free. Booking required. camdenartcentre.org/family-takeover March 14 Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz The White Hart, Stoke Newington, N16. 12-2.30pm. Book at bringyourbaby.org March 16 Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz The Arnos Arms, Arnos Grove, N11. 12-2.30pm. Book at bringyourbaby.org March 19-20 Hold On See through the eyes of an aerial circus performer using virtual reality. Suitable for 8+. 30 mins. Various times. Jacksons Lane, N6. £10 jacksonslane.org.uk March 19-20 The London Festival of Railway Modelling Alexandra Palace. Expect 40 working layouts and more than 100 traders and societies, as well as live expert demonstrations. Adult £13, 5-16 years £7, family £38. alexandrapalace.com/whats-on/the-london-festival-of-railway-modelling-7
Whats On?
March 25 Family Fridays Dance workshops for 2-4s and carers. For all abilities. 2pm. Sadler’s Wells Theatre, EC1. £4. sadlerswells.com March 26 The Itch! Youth Theatre Taster Day for 12-17s to create innovative theatre through workshop activities and games in an inclusive environment. 1pm-5pm. Chickenshed Theatre, Southgate. £20 chickenshed.org.uk March 27 Israeli Family Disco Boogie Boogie to Israeli music. 11am. Suitable for under-7s and adults. JW3, Finchley Road, NW3. £7. jw3.org.uk March 30 – Jan 1 Sorting Britain: The Power of Postcodes The Postal Museum. Discover the ground-breaking technology that changed the post forever. Plus ride the Mail Rail, or book a tunnel walk. postalmuseum.org From April 1 to August 28 Superheroes, Orphans & Origins: 125 years in comics Explore the representation of foundlings, orphans, adoptees and foster children, at the Foundling Museum, WC1. Open Tuesday to Sunday. foundlingmuseum.org.uk From April 2 The 100 Story hotel New play exhibit at Discover Children’s Story Centre, running alongside permanent play spaces to fire up children’s imaginations. Stratford, E5. discover.org.uk April 2-3 Family Fun Weekend Cutty Sark. Meet crew, storytelling, sea shanty-singing, games and workshops. 4+. Weekends & hols meet the crew. April 4-8 & 11-14 drop-in windpower workshop. April 14, 11.30am, more in-depth talk on the sailors, their work and life on-board. All free with entry. From April 2 – Rig climb experience, ticketed. SE10 9HT rmg.co.uk/whats-on/cutty-sark/ April 2-17 Easter Activity Trail RSPB Rye Meads Fun-filled family activity trail. Activity pack £3. And on selected days, self-led pond dipping. Find out what lurks beneath. Stanstead Abbotts, SG12 rspb.org.uk/ryemeads From April 2-18 Easter Egg-splorer Lewis of London Ice Cream Farm, Galley Lane, Barnet, EN5 Easter activities, lambs and chicks to see and special ice-cream flavours. Over 1s £3.50. Adults £1.50. lewisoflondon.co.uk
April 2-18 Easter Eggstravaganza Willows Farm is choc-o-bloc with family fun with egg hunt, Easter Grotto, adorable bunnies, new shows, funfair rides, adventure play and more. £24.25, under-2s free. willowsactivityfarm.com Great Easter Eggstravaganza Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park Easter egg hunt, fun characters and adorable bunnies, along with farm residents. 2+ £13.99, 6mths-2 £4.99. leevalleyfarm.co.uk April 2-18 Lost and Found London Transport Museum, Covent Garden. Special trail. Plus April 4-6 Emily Rand, author of The Lost Post reads from her book. Collage your own lost object to add to Emily’s installation. For 4-7s. Various times. April 9-12, author Kate Wilkinson, author of Edie and the Box of Flits, reads from her book. For 7-12s. Various times. ltmuseum.co.uk April 2-19 Power Up Science Museum. Hands-on interactive gaming event featuring the best video games and consoles from the past five decades. Special event April 9. Suitable for 5+. Exhibition Road, SW7. From £8. sciencemuseum.org.uk April 4 Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz The Griffin, Whetstone, N20. 122.30pm. Book at bringyourbaby.org Polish Papercuts Artist Chloe Campbell leads 2-hour evening class in papercutting techniques. Includes museum entry and paper-cutting kit to take away. 15+. Pollocks Toy Museum, W1. £45. pollockstoymuseum.co.uk
April 15 – 17 Easter Egg-stravaganza Capel Manor Gardens. Easter trail, meet the Easter bunny, crafts, storytelling, get up close with creatures, Enfield, EN1 4RQ. Child £7, Adult £9. Booking essential. capelmanorgardens.co.uk April 15-18 Easter Trail Knebworth. And crafty activities 1pm3pm. Trail sheets £1 on arrival, wins a small prize. Admission from £11.50. knebworthhouse.com
These venues often have workshops or family events during holidays.
From April 17, Sundays and some Bank Hols Royal Gunpowder Mills Exhibits on The Rocket Vault, Women at War, and The Armoury. Waltham Abbey, EN9. royalgunpowdermills.com April 22-24 The Cycle Show Alexandra Palace. Test ride the latest MTB, gravel, road, commuter, leisure, electric bikes of all types on the hills in Alexandra Palace’s beautiful parkland. From £16. alexandrapalace.com/whats-on/thecycle-show-2/ May 8 Paw Patrol Chase and Marshall will be appearing at Epping Ongar Railway. eorailway.co.uk
Dugdale Centre
No details as we went to press.
dugdalecentre.co.uk
Check out:
bankofengland.co.uk
Bank of England Museum,
Pollocks Toy Museum, W1,
Design Museum,
pollockstoymuseum.co.uk
designmuseum.org
Little Angel Theatre -
The British Museum,
littleangeltheatre.com
britishmuseum.org
The Cartoon Museum.
The National Gallery,
cartoonmuseum.org
nationalgallery.org.uk
THE PERFECT EASTER TREAT
April 5, 26, May 10 Adventure Babies Sensory storytelling with singalong and messy play, for 0-4s. Various times. £20 for adult-child duo. Natural History Museum, Exhibition Road, SW7. nhm.ac.uk April 6-18 Easter Days Celtic Harmony Camp. Hunt for a dragon egg, make a clay dragon egg and see a friction fire-lighting display, among a day full of activities. 10am4pm at this pre-history settlement. Brickendon, SG13. £12.50 celticharmony.org April 9 Coderdojo Science Museum. Coding session for young people, beginner or expert. Suitable 7-17s. Must be accompanied. Exhibition Road, SW7. Free, must book sciencemuseum.org.uk
Based on the bestselling books by
LIVE
TAGE ON S
April 11 Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz The White Hart, Stoke Newington, N16. 12-2.30pm. Book at bringyourbaby.org April 14 Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz The Palm, Tottenham, N15. 12-2.30pm. Book at bringyourbaby.org
Got an event? Let us know
editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk
April 15-16 Easter Egg Hunt Epping Ongar Railway. Find all the eggs hidden along the historic railway line as you ride the Easter Express. eorailway.co.uk
Illustrations © Jim Field 2014
March 25 It’s Wear A Hat Day. Wear a hat to raise money for Brain Tumour Research. wearahatday.org
TUE 12 - SAT 16 APR artsdepot.co.uk
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Whats On? Looking ahead… June 21-Aug 21 Summer Exhibition Eclectic, vibrant and innovative art exhibition, ideal for introducing children to art. Royal Academy of Art, Piccadilly. royalacademy.org.uk July 3 Red Bull Soapbox Race, Alexandra Palace Entries are open until 11pm GMT March 20. Find out more, or register your interest to be notified when tickets go on sale, at alexandrapalace.com/whats-on/redbull-soapbox-race-2022 July 7 Happy & Glorious Patriotic and nostalgic afternoon with over 60 marvellous songs from Neil Sands and his West End Cast, to celebrate the Queen’s platinum jubilee, ending with a spectacular flag-waving finale. 2pm, Millfield Theatre, N18. £16.50. millfieldtheatre. co.uk July 12-August 28 101 Dalmations Packed with puppetry and brilliant songs, at Regents Park Open Air Theatre. 4+ only. Signed, described, captioned and relaxed performances. From £25. openairtheatre.com
…and further afield June 22 to 24 The Big Bang Fair Huge hands-on festival of science for children, schools and families. NEC Birmingham. thebigbang.org.uk
There are so many great holiday activity camps in North London. Whatever your child is into, there’s bound to be something for them. Here is just a small selection of what’s on offer. Adventure Barracudas. Multi-activity camps for 4-14s. High Barnet. Swimming, art, motorsports track and archery (7+), large inflatables. April 4-14. barracudas.co.uk/camps/barnet
Music The Strings Club. Childcare with music and more, for 4-11s, all abilities. Sites in Islington, Hampstead, Muswell Hill. Check website for dates. thestringsclub.org
Art appreciation Vincent & Frida. The World of Colour. April 11-14. Learn about the dazzling art of Vincent Van Gogh, Henry Matisse, Andy Warhol and Yayoi Kusama - with distinct styles, united by the love of bright colours. Held at Parsons Green Prep School, SW6. yellowbirdeducation.com/book-andpay-workshops-courses/art22vf
Science Mother Nature Science Camp. Packed with hands-on activities for 5-12s, in Southgate, Hampstead, Maida Vale and St John’s Wood. See website for dates. mnature.co.uk Sport Fighting Fit Fencing. Range of sessions – beginners, intermediate and advanced. High Barnet, EN5. See website for details. fightingfitfencing.com
Cookery Gill’s Cookery for children. Develop cookery skills, knowledge of healthy eating, and enjoyment of food. Hampstead Garden Suburb. April 1-20. gilljroberts.wordpress.com
The Pirate Castle. Range of paddlesport and canalbased activities in Camden. April 4-15. Age 8-16. £30 per day. £5 concs (eligibility proof required). thepiratecastle.org
Coding Code Ninjas. In-person. With sites in Enfield, North Finchley and Belsize Park. Various themes. Check website for details. codeninjas.com Multi-activity Future In Your House. Meet live exotic animals, games, group activities, singing, drama, dance, arts & crafts and KS1 SATS revision for Year 2. April 4-8. Southgate. 4-13s. Futureinyourhouse.co.uk
Performance arts and more Join Perform, enter the mysterious world of Misselthwaite Manor and discover the excitement of reawakening a long-abandoned garden in their drama, dance and singing holiday courses based on The Secret Garden. Packed with adventure, these threeday courses are designed to nurture
the creativity, confidence and communication skills of 4–10 year olds, ending with a fantastic show on the last day. April 4-6, and 11-13. 10am-3pm. Venues: East Finchley, Hampstead Garden Suburb, Highbury, Primrose Hill and St John’s Wood. Contact: 020 7255 9120, enquiries@ perform.org.uk perform.org.uk/secretgarden Fixation Academy of Performing Arts. Operates High Barnet, Whetstone and E Finchley. Dance, songs and drama from favourite musicals. Create props, costumes and sets. Check for dates, locations. fixationacademy.co.uk The Artz Kidz, Enfield. April 4-14. Arts with a twist - drama, movement, literacy and artwork for ages 4-11, EN1. theartzkidz.com Little Supernovas. Storytelling, drama, creative moves, games, art, prop-making and imagination for 4-9s. April 4-8. Highgate. Sibling discount. Request code before booking. littlesupernovas.com Stage Academy. Singing, dancing and acting, drama games, with craft for younger ones. Age 4-18. Check for dates and location. stageacademy.co.uk
Join New London Children’s Choir and develop your singing and musical skills. Rehearsals every Sunday afternoon at All Hallow’s, Gospel Oak.
Are you aged between 7 and 18?
Do you like to sing?
www.newlondonchildrenschoir.org.uk 18
Families North London
For more info contact membership@newlondonchildrenschoir.org.uk
Purple Pages After School Club / Education
Entertainment Red Stairs Soft Play & Café 101-107 Barnet High Street, EN5, next to Halifax. A great place for children and adults to unwind and have fun. Check online for details. redstairssoftplay.co.uk
EMENT BOOKING SIGN OFF Clarssroom Highly sought after and recommended professional tutoring, experienced in developing and preparing children to learn, lead and succeed all around. Reading, English, Maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning, ages 3 ½ -13. Book a trial and free assessment today 0203 991 6110 www.clarssroom.co.uk
Stagecoach Highgate aims to bring out the best in your child and we’re not just talking about their new-found skills in dancing, singing and acting. Our students also develop excellent communication skills, grow in self-esteem and enjoy the benefits of improved confidence! We welcome children of all abilities from the age of four to 16 years and offer two-week trials. To find out more visit our website at www.stagecoach.co.uk/highgate
Music and Movement
Colourstrings For a brilliant start and long-term success in music! Develop your child’s musical talent in Kodaly-based music kindergartens and instrumental 11plus Mock Test Masters programmes from six months – 19 11plus Limited and Mock Test Masters years. Call 020 8444 9435 for a trial of are specialist information BOYS / HENRIETTA3 discounted lessons or email LATYMER 11+ providers ofQE and resources for the 11+ entrance admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk BARNETT at THE LATYMER exam. They demystifyST and ease the 11+/ DAME ALICE www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk MICHAEL’S SCHOOL preparation process for parents and their children. BIG 11+ events are run Dates: Dates: in local centres in Finchley and Barnet. Sat 20thAlso July available 2019 Thu 25th July 2019 are Holiday Learning Mock Test Review Sessions, Pass Sat 10thClubs, Aug 2019 Tue 13th Aug 2019 Club – Saturday tuition and Weekly Practice Tests. Location: Location: New London Children’s Choir www.mocktestmasters.com At The Latymer (Grammar) School, At Woodhouse College, Making music for over 25 years, one of Enfield N9 9TN Finchley N12 9EY the finest and busiest young choirs in London. Offers ages 7-18 the unique Fee: £22.50 per £18.75 paper including detailed Fee: From £45 for 2from papers including feedback and opportunity to enjoy all kinds of music Fee: perdetailed paper feedback and online software to practise. access to all questions. and make close friendships. Includes Training Choir, Senior Choir, Youth BOOK NOW Choir and New London Barbers. No www.mocktestmasters.com audition necessary for Training Choir. Vincent &FEEDBACK Frida includes Meets in Gospel Oak, NW3 every Art appreciation Sunday in term. lessonsü Detailed feedback report üChild’s strengths & weaknesses are designed to üAccess to mock test questions & answers ignite in your child a love for art and its stories. Art will become much more than pictures to them and your child will enter the world of wonder. We offer private lessons, holiday workshops and family sessions. Discover more at The Strings Club... Mock Test Masters www.vincentandfrida.com ...has inspired thousands of children aged 4-11 through a range of multi award-winning music programmes. 11/06/2019 We offer Ofsted-registered Holiday Camps, Online Lessons plus School Music Support. Our wish is that each R ISSUE: 137 (July/August andIssue every child who joins us, develops 2019) a lifelong love of music-making – and Club Petit Pierrot we believe that journey starts with us. Fun French lessons & tuition taught Locations in Hampstead, Hackney, Size C 1/6 page (87x85mm) Online and in person where children Islington and Muswell Hill. flourish and learn French naturally! The specially devised immersion programme offers children the opportunity to learn FF: effortlessly with teachers who are fun, dynamic and caring. From age 1 year St Kiernan’s Gaelic Football Club... +. Hampstead and Primrose Hill. More ...is an inclusive, fun environment for information at kids and adults to learn how to play this www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk REQUIRES APPROVAL BY THE ADVERTISER. PLEASE READ AND CHECK THIS PROOF CAREFULLY. high intensity game. We have teams DAYS OF RECEIVING THE PROOF, OR AS SPECIFIED. IF APPROVAL OR AMENDMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN to ranging from under-6s through senior men and ladies of all abilities. WE TIME, THEN IT WILL BE TAKEN THAT APPROVAL HAS BEEN GIVEN. welcome newcomers to all age groups EMAILED - WHICH IS A VERY GOOD REPRESENTATION OF FINAL PRINT QUALITY. ANY and the sport canQUERIES be picked up easily from ourTIME excellent coaches. OF AS QUALITY OF IMAGES OR LEGIBILITY OF TEXT, SHOULD BE RAISED AT THIS AS APPROVAL Sue Walder Summer training is at our new facility at PPROVAL OF FINAL PRINT QUALITY. Naming Celebrant Joyous, bespoke Kind George Playing Fields, Barnet Lane, naming ceremonies to celebrate new EN5. Winter training is at Woodhouse arrivals to your family. I create unique, College, North Finchley. Contact Chris memorable celebrations that can Byrne on 07984 184003 or Declan Ryan include poems, parental promises, on 07818 023639. the appointment of guideparents, and much more. Perfect for babies, first birthdays, and to welcome adopted children. Call me to find out more on 0796 9272235. www.sue.walder@ humanistceremonies.org.uk
11+Mock Mock Tests 11+ Tests
CEM style 11+ Bexley Tests
Orpington/Kent Grammar Schools
Little Supernovas run creative and imaginative actionpacked children’s holiday clubs where the children create art, props and their very own stories! Our schools run every School Holiday for 4-9 year olds. Sibling discount available. www.littlesupernovas.com/ holiday-schools
Baby & Toddler and Nurseries
Sports and Excercise
Children’s Parties and Celebration
Theatre and Performing Arts
Coffee and Crayons Café (Ballards Lane, Finchley, N3) is a fantastic café with soft play area available. The café is also available to hire for birthday parties, special occasions and clubs/classes. www.coffeeandcrayonscafe.com tel 0208 343 1333 info@coffeeandcrayonscafe.com Zebra Ceramics (N10) Pottery painting studio, loved by all ages!! Whether it’ s a mug, plate or bowl being painted, we will help all party goers to create something they will treasure forever. Our parties are designed for ages 5 and above. You may also visit us if you are not organising a party, we are open 7 days a week. Tel 0208 442 1314 or visit our website www.zebraceramics.co.uk
familiesonline.co.uk
Perform Classes Confidence building fun for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class. Use code LN310322 for a £40 discount when you book before March 31 2022. Venues: N1, N2, N4, N5, N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, N14, N16, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN5 EC1, NW1, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk
Mars Montessori Bilingual Nursery (N1) Mars Montessori in Angel is a small bilingual French-English Montessori secondary blue blue nursery. dark We aim to provide very #496CB2 #1F438F high-quality childcare in a nurturing environment in two languages. In light violet light blue September 2018, we also introduced an #7E85C0 #9AD4F3 Introduction to Mandarin program, and we are proud of the brilliant take up. In April 2018, we were given the highest possible rating of OUTSTANDING by CENTURY GOTHIC REGULAR CENTURY BOLDsingle category. Ofsted inGOTHIC every FONT FAMILY
020 7099 0452 www.bilingualnurseries.com
Baby College Do you have a Newborn or a busy toddler? Do you want to bring your baby to a fun class that has new challenges & exciting learning games every week? Join us in singing, dancing, baby sign language, yoga, massage, music play, language exercises & more fun activities that follow the EYFS framework & help your baby reach their developmental milestones. Book now & meet new friends at Baby College!
The Maria Montessori School offers authentic Montessori education for 2-12-year-olds in 5 locations: Abbey Road, Hampstead, Bayswater, Notting Hill and Hornsey Rise. Join a school open day event to learn about the Montessori approach and watch demonstrations of Montessori materials. You will also meet teachers and be able to ask questions. To register for an event please go to - https://www. mariamontessori.org/my-montessori/ my-school/register-for-a-parentinformation-session/
Hyland House School A Christian, independent school. We empower our 2 to 11-year-olds to aim high and dream big. Our children are achieving excellence. Our Early Years is Ofsted-graded Outstanding. Years 1-6 are graded Good. Please contact us for more information or to arrange a visit. See more at bit.ly/HylandVid Hyland House School is at 97 Holcombe Road, Tottenham, London, N17 9AB. 020 8520 4186 email info@hylandhouseschool.org Website: www.hylandhouseschool.org
The Grove
The Grove Nursery and Preschool offers space to explore and grow. Specialist providers of education and childcare for 0-5 year olds. Offering flexible childcare options; Forest school sessions; Yoga, music, drama, French and Spanish. Open 8-6.30pm Monday to Friday all year round. Organic home cooked food Quality Assured, HEY (healthy early years) nursery with good and outstanding Ofsted reports. Based in Islington, N1 3DF. 02072264037 www.thegrovenursery.co.uk
"I"I saw saw you you in in Families Families magazine magazine and..." and..."
www.babycollege.co.uk/haringey Online subscription available.
Humpty Dumpty Singalong Come and sing with your little one at The Humpty Dumpty Singalong! With live ukulele music, puppets, bubbles and much more! Sessions for under 5s and under 1s, in Islington and Tufnell Park, advanced booking only, via Happity, at www.happity.co.uk/the-humptydumpty-singalong. Contact Debs via Happity or email thehumptydumptysingalong@hotmail. co.uk for more information. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @thehumptydumptysingalong. Happy singing!
Tiny Talk Learn to communicate with your baby before they can speak, at an awardwinning TinyTalk baby signing class. Each class includes: Weekly themes giving you the signs you need to share baby’s world, using British Sign Language (BSL). An interactive music class with hands-on sensory activities developing all-round communication skills and stimulating your baby’s senses, Time to relax with a cuppa making new friends whilst your baby enjoys playtime More information at www,TinyTalk. co.uk/zahrak
To appear in purple pages get in touch
07359 133954 editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk
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North Bridge House
New tion 4+ Recep ep, r entry to P Regent’s Park
North Bridge House is on a constant journey of getting to know and understand every child as an individual, realising their true academic and personal potential through specialist provision at every school stage. NURSERY & PRE-PREP WEST HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS FRIDAY 25 MARCH
NURSERY & PRE-PREP HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS TUESDAY 22 MARCH (NURSERY) THURSDAY 24 MARCH (PRE-PREP)
PREP SCHOOL REGENT’S PARK 4 - 13 YEARS FRIDAY 11 MARCH
SENIOR HAMPSTEAD 11 - 16 YEARS THURSDAY 17 MARCH
SENIOR CANONBURY 11 - 18 YEARS THURSDAY 24 MARCH
Book an open day at northbridgehouse.com/open or call 020 7428 1520