Families North London March/April 2023 Print

North London

IN THIS ISSUE

Nursery Years Competitions

SEVEN pages of What’s On!

How cool are these two? "Gaining confidence, resilience, and forging new relationships are some of the amazing results that our mentors and their child mentees get from being part of The Kids Network," a spokesperson said. Set up five years ago, The Kids Network supported over 450 children last year across London and hope to support over 600 children this year. This can only be achieved with the help of volunteers. If you are over 18, have 1-3 hours a week to spare and would like to have a fun, rewarding, fulfilling volunteer experience, get in touch with thekidsnetwork.org.uk

We often cover topics related to the environment in our magazine but have you ever wondered about how environmentally-friendly we are?

You may have spotted the FSC® logo in the magazine. We’re happy to report that this gives an assurance that all paper we use is made of material from well-managed, FSC®-certified forests and other controlled sources. The magazine is printed by Buxton Press on responsibly sourced paper. Each aspect of our printer’s business has been examined for continual improvement of its green credentials. In fact, Buxton Press has even been recognised for its achievements to date, including winning PrintWeek’s award of Environmental Company of the Year. Read more at www.buxtonpress.com/environment

Families North London Magazine

Editor: Amanda Greenley

 07359 133954

✉ editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk

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.

We’re an environmentally responsible publication

Get hands on the science of surgery

Want to do something fun, FREE, and family-friendly over the Easter holidays? Then make sure you visit the UCL/WEISS annual science fair. On Monday April 3 11am-4pm UCL/ WEISS scientists and staff will lead handson demonstrations for children and adults, showcasing the cuttingedge medical research that they are working on. Use a medical ultrasound scanner, try simulated keyhole surgery, and go on behind-the-scenes tours of their labs to see robot surgeons. For more info visit: www.ucl.ac.uk/events

Engineering success

A team of pupils from Coldfall Primary School, Muswell Hill, placed third in the UK National Finals of the Lenovo F1 Schools Primary Class – and won Best Engineered Car. Another team from the same school won the Portfolio Award at the finals, held at Autosport International, a motorsport exhibition in Birmingham. The innovative STEM initiative challenges primary school students to design, build and race the best miniature paper racing car.

Vaccine trial for babies

A new vaccine aimed at protecting babies from a respiratory virus is being trialled at the Royal Free London.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is one of the leading causes of hospitalisation in all infants worldwide and affects 90 per cent of children before age two. For most, RSV is no worse than a common cold but it is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in babies.

More info: www.royalfree.nhs.uk

Don't screen out tantrums

Research has shown that using screens to calm upset children backfires in the long run because they never learn how to regulate their emotions.

The study of over 400 children age three to five, who were monitored for six months, found that those whose parents relied on smartphones and tablets to calm them down were more likely to have frequent emotional meltdowns, particularly if they were boys.

Scientists said this was because children could become dependent on screens to distract them from negative emotions and never learn to manage their own feelings or self-soothe.

More info: www.bit.ly/ToddlerTantrumResearch

Secrets of our first thousand days

Have you ever wondered why keeping healthy is so tough for some of us but seems easy for others?

And why so-called "non-communicable" diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes still account for most deaths around the world, despite the efforts of health care systems?

Did you know that unconscious communication with your baby in the womb helps their body’s control systems develop for lifelong health?

An increasing number of medical experts would say that we are missing a fundamental clue to what makes us healthy. Our lifelong risk of chronic diseases can be established during our first thousand days, from conception until age two. This critical time affects how our bodies are put together and how we will respond to the world we will live in, with its stresses, need for exercise and good diet, adequate sleep and healthy behaviours.

The secrets of the first thousand days of our lives start from the moment of conception. Once the egg and sperm have fused, the very early embryo begins "tasting" its environment. It detects signals about the world from the mother’s hormones and the nutrients from the food she eats. These leave small "epigenic" marks on the embryo’s DNA. It’s not just about the mother; the father’s sperm brings the egg its own marks too, affected by his diet and lifestyle. These change the instructions given by the inherited genes and can change how the unborn baby develops

As the foetus grows it senses more signals from the mother’s lifestyle and nutrition. This is important because some organs developed before birth must serve us for a lifetime, like the muscle cells in our hearts and the filtering units in our kidneys. Knowing the secrets of development and how they can affect risks of ill-health later in life makes us think: if all parents were better prepared before pregnancy they would give the best first thousand days to the next generation. Our children won’t remember it or grow up to thank us but they’ll stay healthier. For every couple, the period during which preparation is needed for the first thousand days of their child’s life is quite short - likely to be three to six months before conception. It is from this point that healthcare support needs to be in place.

Mark and Lucy, both at the University of Southampton, have spent decades researching the processes underlying human early development, now published in their new book What Makes a Person: Secrets of Our First 1,000 Days, available from www.bookshop.org

CARING, PERSONALISED AND NURTURING LEARNING

Dwight School’s personalised approach led by a team of world class teachers enables students to meet their potential and find their Spark. Join our award-winning provision* and learn more about our top performing international school and nursery, rated Excellent by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

Register for an Open House

*ISA Award for Excellence and Innovation in Early Years, 2022

A personalised journey

Dwight London is an ISA Award Winning School for Excellence and Innovation in Early Years. With excellent student to teacher ratios, they are dedicated to crafting a personalised journey for every student.

"Our students are encouraged to pursue their passions, believe in their own talents while celebrating and learning from the perspectives of others," said a spokesman. Students are inspired to take intellectual risks through the academically rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum — a pathway to top universities worldwide — nurturing creative critical thinkers empowered to help make our world a better place.

Book a monthly open day at dwightlondon.org/families

Ensuring your child is happy at nursery

By Kristen Harding

The process of introducing a child to a new care environment can throw up a number of challenges. However, some can be prevented if your child’s nursery gets to know upfront what you and your child need and want. Before a child arrives, staff should take time to understand your child’s home routine so that potential issues can be nipped in the bud. Settling In – A change in environment can upset a child and parents are generally worried when their child is unsettled. Communication is important at this stage. You need to develop a trusting relationship with the staff and settle into the new arrangement just as much as your child does. Communicating regularly and in as much detail as you need can ease your worry. In turn, any insecurity your child is feeling will also lessen.

Separation Anxiety – Regardless of the time taken beforehand, separation anxiety is a natural and sometimes unavoidable part of leaving a child at a nursery. Generally, separation anxiety lessens over time but you can help by ensuring that nursery staff understand as much as possible about your child’s individual needs, how they behave when they are sad, anxious

Cuddledry hands-free towel WIN!

Make a splash

Enjoying a stress-free bathtime creates a lovely bonding experience. Cuddledry believes one of the keys to a winning bath time is to know that you have what you need on hand to keep the smiles rolling. So, they have created products to set you up for success.

Top of the list is the award-winning Cuddledry handsfree baby towel. Its clever apron-style design keeps you dry while giving you two hands free to lift your baby safely from the water and straight into a warm cuddle. Made with a super fluffy and sustainable bamboo & cotton blend, this towel keeps its softness. £39.99.

Cuddleduck, is a bath and teething toy with no hole – so no mould can grow inside. BPA-free and made with natural rubber. £12.99 in 3 colours.

We can change: pupils reduce school's carbon footprint

Children hear about climate change from a young age, and this can lead some to feel what psychologists have called “climate anxiety”. Encouraging children to take action can do wonders to lessen their distress, and can teach them positive and impactful ways to help save the planet.

CFBL, a French-English bilingual school in Kentish Town, is empowering students to take action against climate change. In addition to classroom activities and school-wide projects, students can take part in several “Eco Committees”, which launch actions and policies to reduce CFBL’s carbon footprint. CFBL is proud to have been awarded the Eco Schools Green Flag award. www.cfbl.org.uk

Stay-soft, silky bamboo Washcloths with natural antibacterial qualities. £7.99.

And fun bamboo character towels – 1-3yrs or 3-6yrs. £34.99-£39.99.

Families North London has teamed up with Cuddledry to offer readers the chance to win a Cuddledry hands-free baby towel. We have THREE to give away. For a chance to win go to bit.ly/compsFNL. See T&Cs at bit.ly/ CuddleTCs. Closing date April 30. See the range www.cuddledry.com

Empowering students to save the planet

or upset and what helps calm them. This will ensure that your child’s nursery cares for your child in the very best way during this difficult period.

Eating – Meal times at nursery can have a real impact on the confidence and comfort of a young child. What your child is used to at home may be very different, whether it’s the food or the way meals are taken. When you visit your child’s nursery, try to do so at meal time occasionally. Meal times at nursery, as at home, should be unpressurised and enjoyable.

Potty Training – Don’t start potty training as your child is starting nursery. When you do decide to begin, ensure it’s not at a time of change or a stressful period at home. Share training methods with your child’s nursery to ensure consistency of approach. For instance, do you want nursery staff to ask your child if he would like to go to go or do you want them to sit him on the potty at specific times of day?

Sleep – It is important that home and nursery work together over nap times, as the needs of individual children differ. If your child struggles to sleep at the nursery, a toy or blanket from home can provide comfort and help them drift off.

Challenges are bound to arise during your child’s time at nursery, most particularly at the beginning, but these can generally be dealt with as long as there is good communication between you and your child’s setting.

Kristen Harding is a childcare expert at Tinies Childcare UK. For more information, visit www.tinies.com

Resilient learners

North Bridge House Nursery

Schools in Hampstead and West Hampstead are focused on providing breadth and depth in the early years of education, to inspire a lifelong love of learning and to equip little ones with the confidence and resilience to thrive in everything they do. Highly experienced staff provide personalised childcare for ages 2+, as well as wraparound care both in and out of term time.

The schools’ large playgrounds provide the perfect space for gardening club or hatching butterflies, while specialist subjects are offered from the outset, with Italian, drama, music and dance delivered on a weekly basis. In the 3+ Pre-Reception class, children also benefit from twice weekly French lessons and bi-weekly Forest School, providing them with a wealth of opportunity to develop their cultural literacy, understanding of the world and affinity with nature.

 call 020 7428 1520. northbridgehouse.com

North Bridge House Nursery Schools Focus on

Bilingual from the start

Located in the heart of Angel since 2000, Mars Montessori is a small private nursery that has received the highest possible rating of Outstanding in every category by Ofsted.

Its bilingual approach includes English, French, and an introduction to Mandarin, delivered by native-speaking Montessori teachers and experienced childcare professionals. "Our small class sizes enable personalized care for children from 18 months to 4 years old with flexible hours from 8am to 6pm, 47 weeks a year. In addition, we provide a fourcourse organic menu," said a spokesperson. Its next open day is Saturday, April 22. So, schedule a visit today to see what sets Mars Montessori apart! bilingualnurseries.com

you in Families magazine and..."

The importance of a holistic education

From before birth to age five, our brains develop faster than at any other time in our lives.

The way we develop, through our experiences, relationships, and surroundings at that very young age, affects everything from how we form relationships and thrive at work, to our mental and physical well-being as adults.

‘’The Early Years acts as a blueprint for our future," said Hendon Prep’s newly appointed Head of Early Years, Dominique RenoufSoar. She added that it is vital for education to be holistic at this age, supporting both children’s education and care.

"By inspiring the heart, mind, and spirit of every child, we can support the joy of childhood alongside preparation for the world beyond,’’ explains Mrs Renouf-Soar.

“Our aim at Hendon Prep is to deliver a broad and balanced curriculum which is pupil-centred, involves possibilities for child-initiated learning, and with differentiation and challenge for each individual child. We offer our children a stimulating learning environment to support discovery and creativity and we work hard to develop strong and effective relationships between staff, parents, and other children.

"We facilitate happiness and achievement, ensuring that by the time our children are five, they are ready to move on to the next stage of their educational journey at Hendon Prep with confidence and vigour.” www.hendonprep.co.uk

Know your pre-school from your nursery

By Andrew Campbell

Is a day nursery the same as a nursery school? Is there a difference between a pre-school and a playgroup? And where on earth does a kindergarten fit in? Here is Families helpful guide to the terminology.

Day nurseries provide childcare (usually from 3 months to 5 years) with a choice of full or part-time care and are usually open 8am to 6pm most of the year and can be run by private individuals, local councils, community groups, Montessori organisations, commercial businesses or by employers. Day nurseries run by councils or community groups tend to be cheaper but may have long waiting lists.

Nursery schools, school nursery class and pre-school offer a more structured early education experience for children age 3 to 5 years which prepares them for primary school. There are generally three types:

Local authority (maintained) nursery schools/classes –are associated with a primary school, run and funded by the local authority and either attached to the primary school or in a separate building. Most offer both full and part-time places and operate during term-time only.

Private nursery schools – can be privately run and may be part of a day nursery setting. A private nursery school may charge fees and have different approaches and philosophies to learning, such as Montessori. They either follow termtimes or can be open for most of the year.

Independent nursery schools – Some are attached to an independent school and are usually run by a private or voluntary organisation as part of the school. Some will not be

St Anthony's School for Boys Focus on

New nursery is the right fit for little explorers

St Anthony’s School for Boys is proud to announce a new mixed nursery housed in its Junior School. It will be part of the St Anthony’s Group of nurseries for boys and girls from 2½ to 4 years. Nursery children will be considered for priority admission into Reception at St Anthony’s Boys’ or Girls’ Schools. Its dedicated learning spaces, inside and outside, are designed for little hands and feet to explore and learn. "We are focused on delivering a high standard of teaching, designed to build knowledge and stimulate curiosity," said a spokesperson. "Well-qualified early years teachers are assisted by subject specialists in music, drama, art and PE."

Senior academic staff from the prep school will oversee and quality-assure the curriculum. The nursery aims to produce effective communicators, hungry to learn and do more. www.stanthonysprep.org.uk

Mars Montessori Bilingual Nurseries Focus on

Hendon Preparatory School Focus on

"I saw

registered with Ofsted but will be monitored as part of the school's inspection. Many offer extended hours allowing early drop off and late pick up to fit in with working hours.

Playgroups/Kindergartens are less formal than nurseries. They operate for a few hours a day and do not provide full-time care. They tend to be run by private individuals or charities. Parents may be asked to volunteer support for certain periods.

Childcare entitlements

��Two-year-old free entitlement: 15 hours of free childcare for 2-year-olds where families meet specific eligible criteria.

�� 15 hours a week free childcare: for every child aged 3 and 4.

�� 30 hours a week childcare: some 3 and 4s are eligible.

�� Tax-Free Childcare: up to £2,000 a year per child (0-11, or 16 if disabled) toward childcare if you earn under £100,000 and more than £152 a week. See www.childcarechoices.gov.uk

A BeSafe high-back booster WIN!

Ride in style and safety

As our children grow out of their car seats it’s tempting to think a booster cushion is enough, but there are safer, more comfortable options.

A booster cushion only has a sitting part beneath the child, whereas a high-back booster seat has a back with an integrated headrest. On some, the backrest can be removed. For both seat types, it is the vehicle belt that secures the child. Innovative Norwegian brand BeSafe says high-back booster seats are one of the safest ways to transport your older children, offering:

Side protection - for your child's torso and head. Even if your car has side curtain airbags, your child might not be at the right height yet for the airbags to have an effect. Shoulder belt guiders – so the belt is always in the right position as your child grows. And a lap-belt guider will keep a belt in the optimal position over your child's pelvis. Support while sleeping - making children less likely to slouch leaving the seatbelt incorrectly positioned. A seat where the sitting area reclines means your child can nap even more comfortably without risk of slouching.

BeSafe has combined all these features in the BeSafe iZi Flex Fix i-size, available in six colours, RRP £239.

Families North London has teamed up with BeSafe to offer readers the chance to win a BeSafe iZi Flex Fix i-size. We have ONE to give away. For a chance to win go to bit.ly/compsFNL. See T&Cs at bit.ly/BeSafeTCs. Closing date April 30.

See the collection at www.BeSafe.com

All aboard for a Cutty Sark adventure this Easter!

Take the family to Cutty Sark in Greenwich for an actionpacked day out on this world-famous historic ship. Meet the cast of colourful characters from the ship’s past, including the fearless Captain Woodget and the ship’s cook, as they share stories about life on board the fastest ship of its time.

Find your sea legs by taking the helm at the ship’s wheel, pull the ropes on the main deck and explore the crew’s bunk beds. Play interactive games, and visit the Cutty Sark figureheads, part of the world's largest collection of ship figureheads.

Follow a free family trail and discover how the ship’s crew lived and worked at sea in the age of sail. Treat the family to an unforgettable experience by climbing Cutty Sark’s iconic masts to see breathtaking views of London and get a taste of life as a 19th century sailor. Book your Easter tickets at Cutty Sark today: rmg.co.uk/cuttysark

20%

A healthy taste of Italy

Review: From the moment we walked in the door at Pasta Remoli, we were wrapped in a warm welcome and in the wonderful scents of Italian cooking.

The model pioneered at Pasta Remoli makes life simple –choose a fresh homemade sauce, a fresh homemade pasta and a cheese – to build a meal you love. It's all part of the informality at Pasta Remoli that creates an ideal space for families to have a relaxed meal.

We chose a variety of dishes between us and all were beautifully cooked, tasty and, despite indulging in some delicious desserts, we left feeling as though we had eaten a good healthy meal, and at a price that fits the family budget.

Families North London has teamed up with Pasta Remoli to offer readers the chance to try it too. Find Pasta Remoli in Finsbury Park, Westfield Stratford, Ealing and Wembley.

OFFER!

Instore: Show this article to get 20% off food bill in-store. Signature dishes included. Excludes drinks and lobster.

Online: 30% off the first order through the Pasta Remoli app. Offer ends April 30. Both offers are not available in conjunction with other offers or discounts. pastaremoli.co.uk

Spring into feeling good with Perform

Spring is the perfect time of year to get those feel-good endorphins pumping and Perform's new summer term themes are sure to get bodies moving and hearts singing. What's more, your child can try a class for free!

Perform offers a different type of children’s drama class. They don't focus on creating perfect dancers or the next child stars. Instead, they put children's social development at the heart of their classes, using a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential.

Exciting termly themes keep young imaginations buzzing while small class sizes ensure lots of individual attention from experienced professionally trained actors, dancers and singers. Classes are for children of all abilities and they can join at any point in the term; the only requirement is to be ready to have the best fun of the week!

From April to July, 4-7s will be setting sail on the Jammy Dodger in Mermaids & Pirates while 7–12s will take part in The Dream, a hilarious adaptation of A Midsummer Night's Dream.

Classes run in N1, N2, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, N13, N14, New Classes N16, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, NW2, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11, EC1R, EC1Y, W1H. 020 7255 9120 ✉enquiries@perform.org.uk To book a FREE trial class, visit www.perform.org.uk/try

Go wild in The Jungle Book this Easter!

Take part in three days of drama, dance and singing with Perform this Easter holiday on a course based on The Jungle Book

Children will join Mowgli and friends as they journey deep into the jungle, meeting Baloo the bear, black panther Bagheera and hunt down ferocious Bengal tiger Shere Khan. Topped off with a fabulously colourful final show, it’s going to be the wildest holiday ever!

VENUES: April 3-5: Highgate, Muswell Hill, Primrose Hill, Islington. April 12-14: Clerkenwell, Crouch End, Highbury, St John's Wood. From 10am-3pm each day. For more info and to book, visit www.perform.org.uk/junglebook

Get the street smarts

Wherever you live, you and your family can make a difference to your local environment by sparing a few hours to take part in the Great British Spring Clean from March 17 to April 2.

Now in its eighth year, the event encourages people across the country to come together to clean up streets, parks, beaches and other public spaces. Find out more at bit.ly/KBTspringclean

Connect with science

British Science Week is a ten-day celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths from March 10 to 19.

This year’s theme is “Connection”. A range of FREE activity packs and other resources suitable for all age groups can be downloaded for fun family activities in the home – or find an event near you at www.britishscienceweek.org

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

Meet George Webster

Families chats with George Webster, the 22-yearold TV presenter, actor, dancer, and ambassador for Mencap. George was catapulted into the public eye when he spoke about Down's syndrome in his myth-busting video for BBC Bitesize, and became a CBeebies presenter. In November, George won a BAFTA (Children and Young People Awards) for Best Presenter.

Congratulations on winning your BAFTA! How do you feel about that achievement?

I feel really proud and really honoured to achieve the award for presenter. I work with so many brilliant people at CBeebies and I feel like things are starting to improve for people like me in the media industry.

Tell us about your journey to become a presenter on CBeebies.

I always loved acting, dancing and performing at school and since then one thing has led to another. While volunteering at Parkrun, Sky filmed me for a documentary and I then became a Mencap ambassador. When my BBC Bitesize video

busting the five myths of Down syndrome got five million hits, CBeebies got in touch inviting me to be a guest presenter and now I’m a regular!

Who has been most supportive in helping you achieve your success?

My parents have been really supportive throughout my life and they always keep telling me ‘just be yourself.’ I always am and I want to say thank you to them for their love and support. Also, my support teachers at school, my friends, the NHS and local charities. What advice would you give to encourage other youngsters who are facing challenges and want to pursue similar careers?

GIVEAWAY!

Five signed copies of This is ME! picture book

Families has teamed up with BAFTA award-winning TV presenter, George Webster, CBeebies’ first presenter with Down syndrome, to o er five lucky children copies of George’s new book, This is ME!

This is ME! is a heartfelt and uplifting story that follows a little boy called George as he tells the reader all about who he is, his life and his experiences. George knows that having Down syndrome is an important part of him but it does not define him.

Featuring George’s real-life friends and family as well as a joyful cast of characters reflective of society and with bright and bold illustrations by best-selling illustrator, Tim Budgen, This is ME! celebrates uniqueness, being ourselves and how our di erences make us special.

Be yourself and dream big. We can all dream big so don’t let anyone else decide for you. it’s your life. Get involved with local performing arts groups too. What do you enjoy most about presenting?

I love everything about presenting at CBeebies! I’ve met loads of brilliant people and now we’re great friends. I also enjoy showing the viewers at home that people like me can be represented within the media and that ‘difference’ can inspire their kids’ lives. Their kids can have many role models, no matter who and what they are.

You’ve now written a picture book called This is ME! Tell us more.

This is ME! is about me, my friends and family when I was younger. It’s about celebrating differences no matter what we look like and who we are. It’s also about each person having their own glow inside that we all need to see.

The book illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to your rhyming words. How did the partnership come together?

My publisher, Scholastic Children’s Books, paired me with the wonderful illustrator, Tim Budgen. Working with him and my co-author, Claire Taylor, has been brilliant and a real collaborative effort.

Closing date: 21 April

T&Cs at https://bit.ly/gwbookgiveaway

What has been the best moment of your career so far? There are so many! Working with CBeebies, writing a book, winning a BAFTA, being on Casualty, going to the

premiere of S.A.M and dancing on stage with Talent Hub. Plus going to UDance National Finals to represent Yorkshire as the first inclusive dance group with Meshdance and watching my appearance on Strictly Come Dancing back on Christmas Day.

You are ambassador for the charity Mencap, which works to improve the life of young people with learning difficulties. Tell us what this work means to you.

It means a lot to me as I have many friends with a learning disability and they’re all brilliant. People like us exist and working with Mencap means our voices get heard. I want people to understand us rather than be scared of us. Where would you like to see your career heading in the future?

I’d love to do more presenting and acting work. I would love to be in Death in Paradise, EastEnders and Doctor Who. Or I could be the new James Bond - why not! Also, I’d love to compete on the main show of Strictly Come Dancing. If you had to bust one myth about having Down syndrome, what would it be?

‘People with Down syndrome are always happy.’ This just isn’t true! We have a range of emotions like every living person has.

What do you do to relax?

I love going to the theatre or cinema, watching films and tv and listening to music. Oh, and thrashing my dad at FIFA!

Bring back playing out

For the majority of today’s parents, the best childhood memories don’t involve expensive toys or organised activities. Instead, they remember the simple pleasures of playing and running around outside with their friends. Their strongest and fondest memories recall a magical sense of freedom and possibility.

There have been many studies into the benefits of free, unstructured outside play. Children playing together use their imagination to create games and invent rules. They learn how to collaborate, share, negotiate and resolve conflicts. They build resilience, independence and social confidence as they learn to navigate the world without adult interference. All valuable experiences as they grow into young adults. Playing outside is also the natural, joyful way that children are physically active and develop running, balancing, skipping, climbing, jumping and even ball skills at their own pace. You don’t have to "make" children do this; just look at a school playground at breaktime!

In the past, playing outside was the easy, free way that children got all these vital health and wellbeing benefits, every day. All it needed was safe spaces close to home: streets, patches of land, small parks children could get to. It didn’t need money, a car or an adult to take them.

Today things are very different. While screens and "lazy" children or parents often get blamed, one of the biggest

barriers is traffic.UK traffic volume has doubled since the 1980s and roads are now seen as "just for cars". Parental fears are justified, as the numbers of children killed or injured on our roads is shocking and should be unacceptable in any society. So what can parents do? Gardens are safe but not everyone has one. Organised activities are great but not always possible and don’t replace the benefits of unstructured play.

Play streets are one way to reclaim some of the freedom children have lost. By temporarily stopping through traffic on a residential street, neighbours can open up a safe space for children to play together on their doorsteps.

In 2009, a group of Bristol parents closed their street to through traffic for a few hours to give their children some of the freedom they grew up with. Their council then agreed that this could happen every week. The idea began to spread and they set up Playing Out to support other parents and residents do the same.

Playing Out brings more play and freedom into children’s lives in an easy, affordable way. Look into setting up your own space at www.playingout.net

Play streets starting up Getting started

Play streets have been spreading across the UK for over a decade and the positive impact on children is backed up by research: regular extra hours of physical activity, the opportunity to make friends with other neighbourhood children and picking up fun and useful skills such as skipping and riding bikes. In short, all the benefits of playing out for health and wellbeing that many of us used to have.

Many streets which have been playing out regularly for several years have found that it’s not just the children who benefit; it can bring the whole street community together. Everyone on the street is invited to join in, whether they have children or not.

Friendships between neighbours are formed or strengthened, while older residents often feel less lonely. When Covid left some elderly or unwell people feeling isolated, those living on play streets found that they already had a support network on their street.

Play streets aren’t just for children, they’re for everyone on the street!

There are four steps involved in setting up a play street: Consult your neighbours. It’s clearly got to be something that they will either actively embrace or, at the very least, find acceptable.

Apply to your council for permission. Not all councils have policies to support play streets but they can often be persuaded if they can see that there is demand from residents. In these areas, why not start with a street party (for the Coronation perhaps), focus on low key space for play and then take it from there?

Effectively communicate what is happening to everyone on the street.

Release your kids to play out. On the day, volunteer stewards supervise the road closure so that residents who need to can still drive in and out and the disruption to neighbours is minimal.

All the information and support you need to take this further is at www.playingout.net

Top value family destinations ✈

Travelling as a family can seem quite a financial outlay but with careful planning you can still find destinations that offer excellent value for money.

Turkey – Make the most of long, warm Turkish summers. Choose from many family-friendly resorts and eat out like a king as a three-course meal can be just £7.50 a head in the popular beach resort of Marmaris (right), while a round of drinks is less than £5.

Montenegro – a great alternative to its popular neighbour Croatia, with cheaper prices and quieter beaches. Boasting golden beaches, whitewashed villages and lush green forests, it’s one of the most picturesque spots in the Balkans.

Mauritius – Looking further afield, Mauritius offers prices almost half those of the neighbouring Seychelles. With white sands, crystal-clear waters and adrenalin-filled activities, Mauritius has something for children and adults of all ages.

Jamaica – the Post Office LongHaul Holiday Report's best value destination in the Caribbean.

Montego Bay is perfect for families wanting an active holiday, keeping beach lovers to snorkellers entertained, or explore the rainforest.

South Africa – not be the cheapest place to get to but once

there you won’t have to dig too deeply, at around £20 per person for a three-course meal with wine in Cape Town and £1.55 for a coffee. The country offers the perfect combination of wildlife, exploration and relaxation: a once in a lifetime family adventure! Albania – Although relatively unknown to tourists, Albania is packed with things to see and do, with a surprising number of attractions that kids will love. A three-course meal and wine wouldn’t cost more than £20 for a family. The Albanian Riviera has some beautiful sandy beaches. Sri Lanka – is open for tourism and the pound is strong against the rupee, providing very good value for money for families  – and a fantastic adventure. Once you are there, it's incredibly easy to holiday on a budget with food, transport and accommodation all relatively affordable. Plus, travelling around this beautiful country by train is great value and fun for families.

By Ashley Lutz, a Travel Counsellor with seventeen years’ experience

working with families to find

needs and budget.

inspiring holidays best suiting their wants,

www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/ashley.lutz

We are currently recruiting hosts who can offer a spare bedroom, three meals per day and the required lessons and activities.

You choose who to host and when to host! Earn up to £1,000 per week.

Would you like to host and teach English to a foreign student in your home? Get

STRONGER, SAFER SWIMMERS START EARLY.

Better Swim School produces over 100,000 stronger capable and safer swimmers across the UK each year. It is designed to be convenient, flexible and affordable for all ages and abilities taught by qualified and experienced teachers. Our safe and friendly environment will ensure your child enjoys life long fun in and around the water.

Find your nearest Better Swim School at:

• Britannia Leisure Centre

• Clissold Leisure Centre

• Kings Hall Leisure Centre

Discover how to kick start your child’s development at better.org.uk/lessons

What's 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

Tuesdays

Storytelling

Sensory interactive stories. 10am & 10.35am. The Woodman, N6 5UA. 0-5. From £7 parent & child. www.littlesupernovas.com/bookings

Fridays

Storytelling

Sensory interactive stories. 9.30am. The Prince of Wales, N6 5JX. 0-5 From £7 parent & child. www.littlesupernovas.com/bookings

Fridays Planet Play

Until March 24, exc Mar 3 & 10. Check for later dates. Magical, interactive, sensory show.. 10am & 11.30amChickenshed, N14 4PE. See Easter Planet Play Apr 14. 0-3. Adults £9, children & babies free, must have ticket. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Fridays

Les Aventures de Martin Avril

Join Martin and his suitcase full of magic for a live music puppet show with musicians from around the world. 10.15am and 11.05am. Check website for French or English. Poppets Stores, N1 1LX. 0-5. £13 adult and one child. https://lesaventuresdemartinavril. com

Saturdays

Tales from the Shed

Until Mar 25, exc Mar 4 & 11. Check for later dates. Vibrant, inclusive, informal and educational show. 10am & 11.30am. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. 0-6. Adults & children £7. Under 6mths free, must book. See Easter Bunny Tales Apr 11-15. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Until Apr 16

The Instrumentals

When Belle is feeling down she slips into her grandfather’s basement and discovers his dusty old instruments. A show for all children, inspired by the African-Caribbean diaspora. Various times. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2DN. 4-8. Adult £14, child £12. Fridays 4.45pm £8. www.littleangeltheatre.com

Until Apr 23

The Flying Bath

When everyone has left the house, the bath toys head off exciting adventures. Based on the Julia Donaldson book. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH, 2-5. Adult £14, child £12, Fridays 4.45pm £8. www.littleangeltheatre.com

Until Jun 6

Sleeping Beauty

Magic and fairytale brought to life through ballet. Various dates/times. See Tour with Lilac Fairy High Tea in Events Apr 11. Royal Opera House, WC2E 9DD. All ages, £5-£170. www.roh.org.uk

Mar 2-5

Coppelia

Silicon Valley’s newest inventor Dr Coppelius reveals a world of robots and clones, as Scottish Ballet asks what it means to be human in a world of artificial intelligence, Various times inc matinees. 80mins. Mar 4 2.30pm. audio described and touch tour. Sadler’s Wells, Theatre, EC1R 4TN. From £15. www.sadlerswells.com

Mar 3-5

Zog

Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Various times. Mar 4, 4pm, relaxed. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 3+. From £12,. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Mar 4

Mister Magnolia

Join him on a wacky adventure to find his boot. 11am & 1pm. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL. 4-10. £8. www.lyric.co.uk

Mar 5

Meet Me a Tree

Interactive first opera with music by Schumann, Delibes and Handel in this multi-sensory experience. 1pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 0-2 and carers. £15 admits one baby and one adult www.artsdepot.co.uk

Professor Slug’s House of Bugs

An eccentric expert helps bugs out with their problems – and you can too. 11am & 2pm. Jacksons Lane, N6 5AA. 3+. £10 www.jacksonslane.org.uk

Mar 8

Lighthouse

Poised between dance, circus and performance art, this solo piece uses gentleness as a tool in the face of adversity and change. A reflection on what it is to be a generation born into a plastic-overflowing world. 7.30pm. Jacksons Lane, N6 5AA. £14. www.jacksonslane.org.uk

Mar 9-25

Rush – Through the Eyes of my Ancestor

Told by three women, connected in ancestry, united in spirit, spanning generations, but divided by experiences of oppression echoing across the centuries. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. 11+. From £8. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Mar 11

The Tap-Dancing Mermaid

A magical story about a tippetty-top tap dancer from the sea. 11am & 1pm. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL. 3-133. £8. www.lyric.co.uk

Mar 12

The King of Nothing

Anarchic puppet musical retelling of The Emperor’s New Clothes. 11am & 2pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 5+. From £10. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Mar 13

S.O.L.O

One-man circus/gymnastic and multimedia performance about life’s struggles, losses and hopes. 50mins. 6pm. Jacksons Lane, N6 5AA. £12. www.jacksonslane.org.uk

Mar 18 Groove Into The Woods Animation, interactive music-making and solid groove, follows three friends in a fairytale forest, who learn important lessons about who you can trust and which troll might eat you. From Groove Baby. 11am & 2pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 3-7. From £10. www.artsdepot.co.uk

The King of Nothing

Anarchic puppet musical retelling of The Emperor’s New Clothes. 11am & 1pm. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL. 5+. £8. www.lyric.co.uk

Mar 19

Curious Investigators

Scribble and Clipboard have a job to do – sort the recycling. But Scribble keeps finding things to investigate. Adventure in collaboration with engineering experts from Lancaster University. 11am & 2.30pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 3-7. From £10 www.artsdepot.co.uk

Nick Cope’s Family Show

The star of Cbeebies Nick Cope’s Popcast sings his child-friendly, funny and unique songs. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 2+. From £12. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Mar 19

Ernie’s Journey

Magical circus theatre journey. Ernie discovers that being himself and following his dreams can lead to adventures. 11am & 2pm. Jacksons Lane, N6 5AA. 4-11. £10. www.jacksonslane.org.uk

Mar 25

Funnybones

Discover the joy of imaginative play in this non-verbal adventure of two scientists who have lost their ideas, based on the tale by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, 11am & 1pm. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL. 4-7. £8. www.lyric.co.uk

Flashdance

Presented by Urdang, part of City University, 2.30pm. Later shows and on other days. Bernie Grant Arts Centre, N15 4RX. £15, concs £12.50. www.berniegrantcentre.co.uk

Mar 27-May 3

Cinderella Ballet. Royal Opera House, WC2E 9DD. £9-£107. www.roh.org.uk

Mar 30 & May 25

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy

Grown-up comedy. Babies welcome. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 12pm & 2pm. For over-18s and babies under 15mths. From £12 adult & child. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Apr 1

Breathe

Extraordinary journey from the perspevtive of an acorn, with puppetry, live camera work, drum & bass and ethereal folk music. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 11.30am & 2pm. 5+. From £10. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Lily and Bear

Musical about friendship, with animation and puppets. 11am & 1pm. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL. U-6. £8. www.lyric.co.uk

Let’s All Dance – Cinderella

Accessible, crystal clear storytelling in this fairytale ballet. 55mins. Photo opp after the show. 3pm. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. All ages. £16, concs £14. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Apr 2

Animal

The animals are gathering but one

species hasn’t turned up – and it’s the one causing all the trouble. 11am & 2.30pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 6+ From £10.

www.artsdepot.co.uk

Apr 2-6

Jack v Giant

Join Jack, a brave young girl, on a musical adventure from underground goldmines to a castle in the sky. Various times. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 4+. From £12.

www.artsdepot.co.uk

Apr 3-5

Hey Diddle Diddle

Spectacular nursery rhyme caberet. Various times. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 0-6. From £10

www.artsdepot.co.uk

Apr 4-8

Johanes Radebe - Freedom Unleashed

After a sell-out debut tour, the Strictly star presents a new fun and feelgood dance show. 7.30pm, and Sat 2.30pm. Touch tour and audio-described Sat 2.30pm. Peacock Theatre, WC2A 2HT. 5+ only. From £18. www.sadlerswells.com

Apr 4-15

Jungle Book Reimagined Mowgli’s journey is reinvented through the eyes of a climate refugee in a tale of connecting with others and the natural world. Apr 7 & 8, 2pm, relaxed. Apr 8, 2pm audio-desc, touch tour, & captioned. From £15. Sadler’s Wells, Theatre, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com

Apr 6-10

The Adventures of the Easter Bunny in Fairytale High Interactive production that promising to have you singing and dancing along in your seat. Various times. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. 3-9. £15, concs £12.50. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Apr 8

The Bubble Show

Unique blend of magic, storytelling, art and bubbles. 2pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 3-12. From £12. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Bossy

Beth is confident, clever and wants to become the world’s best leader, but people keep calling her bossy. 11am & 1pm. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL 5-9. £8. www.lyric.co.uk

Apr 9

The Amazing Maurice

Screening with full orchestra playing the score. 11am performance in aid of charity Cats Protection. The 2.30pm screening features Gabrielle Aplin singing live, performing songs she wrote for the film. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY. All ages. Adult £32.55£111.75. Child from £25.95. www.alexandrapalace.com

Apr 11

The Wish Gatherer

English Touring Opera explores the impact of climate change on the natural world in this adventure story. 11am & 2pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 7+ From £10. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Apr 11-15

Easter Bunny Tales from the Shed Vibrant, inclusive, informal and educational show. 10am & 11.30am. Fri 11.30am. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. 0-6. Adults & children £7. Under 6mths free, must book. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Apr 11-15

The Wizard of Oz

Amateur production by Potters Bar

Theatre Company. 7.30pm, plus 2.30pm on Sat. Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar, EN6 2HZ. £19-£21. https://wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

Apr 11-15

The “Not so” Grimm Twins

Meet the brothers Grimm, and their little sister Lottie, as they tell their tales and then have to defeat the creatures of their own creation. 11am & 1pm. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL. 4+. £10. www.lyric.co.uk

Apr 12

Gulliver

Lost at sea for 9 years, Gulliver returns. They say travel broadens the mind –but how far before it breaks? 7.30pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 12+. From £15. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Apr 13-14

Let’s All Dance – Cinderella

Clear storytelling ballet. 55mins. Photo opp after shows. 1pm & 3pm. From £19.50. Lilian Bayliss Studio, in Sadler’s Wells Theatre, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com

Apr 13-16

Snow White

By London Children’s Ballet. Various times. Peacock Theatre, WC2A 2HT. 3+. Family-friendly. £18 - £55 www.sadlerswells.com

April 13-16

Wizard of Oz

All-singing, all-dancing magical, hilarious show for all the family. Various times. Cockpit, NW8 8EH. Various prices. 20% discount until Mar 31. www.thecockpit.org.uk

Apr 14

Cinderella

Screening of the Royal Opera House ballet 1pm. Wyllyotts Centre, Potters

Bar, EN6 2HZ. £12. wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

Apr 14

Easter Planet Play

Magical, interactive, sensory show with songs, music and movement. 10am & 11.30am. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. 0-3. Adults £9, children & babies free, must have a ticket. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Apr 15

Andy and The Odd Socks Singalong songs from CBeebies Andy and the band. 12pm & 4pm. Meet & greet tickets available. Hackney Empire, E8 1EL. All ages. £17.50-£25. www.hackneyempire.co.uk

Apr 16

Tom Thumb

One night, tiny Tom overhears Mum and Dad says there is nothing to eat and they are going to leave him and his six brothers in the forest. Tom must find a way to protect his brothers in this big adventure. 11am & 2pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 3+. From £10. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Apr 21

Romeo and Juliet

Abridged version. 1.30pm & 5pm. The Bull Theatre, EN5 5SJ. Ideal for schools and older children and teens studying the text. £10. www.thebulltheatre.com

Apr 21-23

The Nosy Little Troll

Deep in the Norwegian Forest live the trolls – big, tiny and a troll with an amazing sense of smell. Funny Scandinavian story. Various times. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2DN. 3-8 Adult £14, child £12, Fridays 4.45pm £8. www.littleangeltheatre.com

Apr 23

Baby Broadway

Well-known numbers from favourite shows, performed by West End singers, plus bubbles, poetry, dance and audience interaction. 11am & 2pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 0-6. From £7. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Wind in the Willows

A beautiful new adaptation of the classic by Box Tale Soup. Jacksons Lane, N6 5AA. 4+. £10. www.jacksonslane.org.uk

High Jinx

See magic tricks, grand illusions and crazy circus thrills in this family show. 2.30pm. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. 4+. £14.50, child £12.50. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Apr 29

Woodland Tales with Granddad

The machines are gathering at the edge of the wood. The animals are worried. Can Granddad save them –and will the mysterious stranger help? With Hattie Naylor. 11am & 1pm. Lyric Hammersmith, W6 0QL. 3+. £8 www.lyric.co.uk

Apr 29-30

Breakin’ Convention

Twentieth anniversary international festival of hip hop. 6pm. BSL interpreted. Sadler’s Wells, EC1R 4TN. All ages. From £15. www.sadlerswells.com

Apr 30

The Instrumentals

See “Until Apr 16” for description. 11am & 2pm. Jacksons Lane, N6 5AA. 4+ £10. www.jacksonslane.org.uk

Comedy Club 4 Kids

The best acts from the international circuit – but without the rude bits. 12pm & 2.30pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA.

What's On

6+. From £10. www.artsdepot.co.uk

May 10

Once On This Island

A musical tale of a love that prejudice forbids. Regents Park Open Air Theatre, through Queen Mary’s Garden, Regents Park. NW1 4NU. 10+. From £25. openairtheatre.com

May 12-Jul 23

The Wolves in the Wall

Lucy’s family ignore her when she says there are wolves in the walls – until the wolves come out and evict them to live in the garden. Spooky and hilarious. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2DN. 6+. Adult £14, child £12. Fridays 4.45pm £8. Plus family workshops. Various dates. www.littleangeltheatre.com

May 19-Jul 30

WOW! Said the Owl

Explore the wonderful world of colours with a curious little owl, from the acclaimed book by Tom Hopgood. Various times. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH 6+. Adult £14, child £12. Fridays 4.45pm £8. www.littleangeltheatre.com

May 22-Jun 10

Every Leaf A Hallelujah

Ben Okri’s new fairytale invites families into an enchanted world of extraordinary, endangered trees. Regents Park Open Air Theatre, through Queen Mary’s Garden, NW1 4NU. 4+. £10. openairtheatre.com

What's On Events

SEN sessions

Some venues run sessions for chil-

dren with special needs. See our page at www.bit.ly/FNLsend

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 www.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 11am4pm Thurs to Sun. www.fortyhallestate.co.uk

Grant Museum of Zoology

Get to know a dodo from a quagga. Tues-Fri 1pm-5pm. Sat 11am-5pm. Free, no booking required. UCL, University St WC1E 6DE. ucl.ac.uk/culture/grant-museumzoology

Whitewebbs Museum of Transport

Open Tuesdays and the last Sunday in the month. Check website for events and closures. Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, Whitewebbs Road, EN2 9HP www.whitewebbsmuseum.co.uk

Being Human

Permanent exhibition exploring what it means to be human, and looking at how humans have sought to understand the human body, protect themselves and care for one other. Free. The Wellcome Collection, NW1 2BE. https://wellcomecollection.org

Ted’s Space Adventures

Planetarium show, under 7s. 11.30am, weekends and school hols. See Mar 18,

Apr 4 and Apr 6 for other events. Check website for One Day On Mars7+, Lunar Encounter, 7+, The Sky Tonight, 7+. Adults £10, child £5. Student & under 25 £6.50. Booking advised. Entry adult £16, child £8. Royal Observatory, SE10 8XJ. See also Until Aug 13 Astronomy Photographer of the Year exhibition. www.rmg.co.uk

Various dates

Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz & Walks Venues throughout North London. www.bringyourbaby.org

Family Art & Craft

Bruce Castle Museum hosts art, crafts and poetry led-workshops. 4-12 must be accompanied. Little explorer gallery with interactives and dressup, 3-8. Free. Plus there is a Mystery Manor Trail with sticker booklet for £1, and a Tree Trail. Weds-Sun 1pm5pm. N17 8NU www.brucecastle.org/families

Storytelling and Music for 0-4s Various times. £5. Royal Albert Hall, SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com

First Saturday of the month Coder Dojo

10.30am-12pm. Prince Philip Maritime Collections Centre, SE3 9QS. 7-17 Free, £1 booking fee. www.rmg.co.uk

Third Saturday of the month

Make, Do and Maintain Facilitated session. Various themes.

10.30am-12pm. Prince Philip Maritime Collections Centre, SE3 9QS. All ages/ abilities. Free, £1 booking fee. www.rmg.co.uk

Sundays Crafternoons

Until Mar 26, exc Mar 5. 2pm-4.30pm. JW3, Finchley Road, NW3. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. 3-8s and their families. Free, drop-in. www.jw3.org.uk

Sundays

Wonderful Wildlife

1pm-3pm. Woodberry Wetlands, N16 5HQ. Free, drop-in. www.wildlondon.org.uk

Every other Sunday

Wonderful Wildlife

Mar 12, 26. Apr 9, 23. 1pm-3pm. Camley Street Natural Park, N1C 4PW. All ages Free, drop-in. www.wildlondon.org.uk

Second & Fourth Sunday

Chess Club

All levels welcome. Children must be accompanied. 1-3pm. Free. Wood Green Library, N22 6XD Email dalmar.gibson@haringey.gov. uk | husseyin.ali-diakides@haringey. gov.uk

First weekend of the month

Family Fun Weekends

Workshops, songs, activities and experiences for all ages. See colourful characters aboard every weekend and school holiday. Cutty Sark, SE10 9HT. www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark

Every Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday

Dad’s drop-in group

T on The Green, Bruce Castle Park, N17. Sat 12-1.30pm, Tues & Thurs 3.30pm-5pm. Free children’s refreshments. tonthegreen.co.uk

Sats & Suns

Character Encounters – Sats. Join an exciting performance and see maritime history brought to life. Various times.

Discover Sundays – term-time. Creative activities. Drop-in. Plus hands-on galleries and trails. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF. All ages, Free. www.rmg.co.uk

Tuesdays

Children’s Board Games Club

Free. No book. 8+. 4.30pm-6.30pm. Muswell Hill Library, N10 3PE. Email mhlibrarygamesclub@gmail.com

Tuesdays in term-time

Play Tuesdays

Facilitated play, songs and stories. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF. U-5,. £4. www.rmg.co.uk

Weekdays term-time

Little Tots and Ice Cream Pots

From early March. Check website. Fun sessions, sensory play, music, animals, and more. Lewis of London Ice Cream Farm, Galley Lane, EN5 www.lewisoflondon.co.uk

Tuesdays and Fridays in term-time

Singing and Story Sessions

For under-5s. Various times. London Transport Museum, WC2 ltmuseum.co.uk

Tuesdays in term time

Library Club

Free, with reading corner and diverse book-pairing service. 3.30-5.30pm. Hackney Showroom, N4 2BN. 0-11 Free, drop-in. www.hackneyshowroom.com

Wednesdays from Jan 18

Easy Rollerz

Hang-out for babies, toddlers and their adults, with soft play and music. 1011am for pre-walkers. 11am-noon tots on the move. £3 donation. Hackney Showroom, N4 2BN www.hackneyshowroom.com/ easy-rollerz

Wednesdays

Girl’s Football

3.30pm-5pm. The Muga, Markfield Park, N15 6UL. 12-16. Free. Email get.active@haringey.gov.uk

Thursdays

Amazing Tots

Apr 28-Jul 2 Developmental stay and play for under 2s with a disability or developmental delay. 10.30am. Free. Email Karen Rodrigues-Ayers@kids.org. uk. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk

Weekends, Fridays and holidays

Play Studio

Until March 31. A place for families to play, make and create together. Plus Tate Draw, every day. Tate Britain, Millbank, SW1P 4RG. All ages, Free. tate.org.uk

Wednesdays and weekends

Uniqlo Tate Play: Empower

Until May 24. Check online for Easter programme. Make an activist poster about a cause you care about. From 10.30am. Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG. Weds: Families with U5s. Weekends: all the family. Free. www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern

Until…

Until Apr 2 Step Into Infinite Space

Experience two of Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms. Be immersed in endless reflections. Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG. £10. www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern

Until Apr 10

Weird Sensations Feels Good: The World of ASMR

Explore the emerging world of creativity triggered through this sound phenomenon. Adults from £9.50. Family from £21. Must book. Design Museum, W8 6AG. https://designmuseum.org

Until Apr 16

Executions

How, over 700 years, public executions shaped the city we know today. Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL. 12+. Various prices. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

Until Apr 16 Africa Fashion

Exploring its global impact through photos, textiles, music and visual arts. £16, under-26 £10, under-12 free. V&A, SW7 2RL.

www.vam.ac.uk

Until Apr 28

Slavery & The Bank

How wealth created through transatlantic slavery shaped the development of Britain. Bank of England, museum entrance on Bartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH. Free.

www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

Until May 4

Science Fiction: Voyage to the Edge of Imagination

Immersive genre-defying exhibition exploring visions of the future through the science of today. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. 8+ recommended. Adult £18, child/concs £16.20.

Plus, design, create or become a sci-fi character. Weekends and school holiday. 3-13. Free drop-in.

Mar 11: Imax screening of Spiderman: Into the Spiderverse (PG), with special guest

Mar 12: Imax screening of Wall-E (U) featuring a conversation with a top Hollywood animator.

Mar 12: How to Build an Android. discussion panel on whether and how we might build advanced humans,. 14+. £10.

www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

TUESDAY 11 APRIL 11AM (RELAXED PERFORMANCE) & 2PM TICKETS: £10 ARTSDEPOT.CO.UK englishtouringopera.org.uk

What's On

Until May 9

Beyond The Streets London Graffiti and street art exhibition with over 150 artists, icons and rule-breakers. From £15, concs available. Saatchi Gallery, SW3 4RY www.saatchigallery.com

Until May 21

Magdelena Abakanowicz: Every Tangle of Thread and Rope Enormous sculptures in fabric. Great for talking about art. Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG. Gallery free. Exhibition, various prices www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern

Until May 28

War Games: Real Conflicts/Virtual Worlds/ Extreme Entertainment Exhibition exploring what video games can tell us about conflict, placing video games alongside real-world artefacts, plus playable retro-gaming focusing on the First World War. Advance book timed entry or walk up and wait. Imperial War Museum, SE1 6HZ. Age suitability not given. Free. https://www.iwm.org.uk

Alternate Saturdays until Jun 24

Transformative Futures

Weekly collective for young people to think, discuss and create together. 2-4pm. Free. Book. Camden Art Centre, NW3 6DG. For 15-25s. https://camdenartcentre.org

Until Jun 25

Yinka Ilori

The colourful world of the artist/designer. Free. Design Museum, W8 6AG. www.designmuseum.org

Until Jul 2

Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Various prices. Must book. Natural History Museum, SW7 5HD www.nhm.ac.uk

Until Aug 13

Astronomy Photographer of the Year Exhibition. National Maritime Muse um, SE10 9NF. Adult £10, child £5, concs £6.50. www.rmg.co.uk

Until Sep 3

The King’s Stamp

First and only chance to see a sheet of King Charles III stamps before they are released. Explore the history of the mail, and ride the Mail Rail. The Postal Museum, WC1X 0DA. Adult from £16, child from £9. www.postalmuseum.org

Until Dec 1

Tutankhamun the Boy: Growing Up in Ancient Egypt

Find out what life was like as a young boy at the palaces of Amarna and Gurob. Tues-Fri 1pm-5pm. Sat 11am5pm. Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology, UCL, Malet Place WC1 6BT. For schools and families. Free ucl.ac.uk/culture/petrie-museum

Day by day

Mar 1, Apr 12, May 10

Gaming@artsdepot

Bring a board game or use one of theirs. 16+. 6.30pm. Free. Artsdepot, N12 0GA www.artsdepot.co.uk

Mar 1-28

Angus Anderson

Exhibition and sale of work left in the studio of the late artist who ran classes at Newtown Community Centre. All proceeds from sales to charities he supported. Gallery open Thurs to Tues 12-4pm. Weds 11am3pm. Except private events. Check website. Lauderdale House, Waterlow

A Polka Theatre production

Park, N6 5HG. Child-accessible work. Free www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk

Mar 4

Minecraft Masterpieces: Rome

Try your own Roman construction. 10am-4pm. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. Free drop-in, must book free museum entry. www.britishmuseum.org

Mar 4

Minecraft Masterpieces: Rome

Try your own Roman construction. 10am-4pm. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. Free drop-in, must book free museum entry. www.britishmuseum.org

Mar 5

Party on Purim

Storytelling and puppets, baking, singalongs, crafts and more. 3pm, adult £10, child £9, under-2 free. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET www.jw3.org.uk

Mar 11

Impossible Images: Japan

Create an Egypt-themed family photo. Drop in. 10am-4pm. Free, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW www.britishmuseum.org

Make a Rubbish Puppet Workshops, 90mins. Be inspired by characters and animals in the Re:Imagining Musicals display. Must book. V&A, SW7 2RL 10.30am 5-7, 1pm 8-10, 3pm 11-13. £12. www.vam.ac.uk

Mar 11-12

Crafterama

Exhibition. Inspiration and shopping for crafters. Watch demonstrations and join a make-and-take. From £5.50, U12 free. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY www.alexandrapalace.com

Mar 11-Aug 27 selected dates

Family Swordfighting Demonstration

See how swords were used on stage in Shakespeare’s day. Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT. All ages. £10. www.shakespearesglobe.com

Mar 12

Holi Festival Colour Party

Science Museum, SW7 2DD. 7+. Free, drop-in. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

Mar 16-Aug 27

Finding Family

Examines the family through art from the 17th century to the present day. Closed Mondays. Foundling Museum, 40 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ. Adults from £9.50. U21 free. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk

Mar 18

Astronomy and Islam Family Special Planetarium show focusing on stories about constellations visible that night and the new crescent moon. 10.30am. Royal Observatory, SE10 8XJ. 7+. Adult £10, child £5. www.rmg.co.uk

Wasps vs Snakes vs Rats

Forget the cute ‘n’ fluffy. Three experts set out to convince that the animal they study is the best. Will you be won over? Particularly suitable for 7+, families and 13+. 6pm. £16, concs £10. The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS www.rigb.org

Making Masks: Aztecs

Drop in. 10am-4pm. Free, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org

Mar 18-19

The London Festival of Railway Modelling

One of the UK’s biggest model railway exhibitions. Expect over 35 of the country’s best model railways. Plus shopping, Adult £14, 5-16s £8. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY www.alexandrapalace.com

Mar 18-26

Free Parking to visit RSPB Rye Meads, SG12 8JS, when you show a National Lottery ticket or scratchcard. events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads

Mar 18 & Apr 22

Nearly New Sale

Top-quality baby and children’s clothes sold by mums to mums at a fraction of the high street price. Parents with outgrown goods can sell and keep 100 per cent of the proceeds. 10am-12noon. St Stephens Church Hall, Park Avenue, EN1 2BA. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

Mar 19

Mother’s Day Family Kokedama

Workshop

Create your own kokedama – a ball of soil, covered in moss and planted – with seasonal spring flowers. 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. 7+, must be accompanied. £25 per person. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Mar 23

Drummers, dancers, food and colour play herald the Spring in this traditional Hindu celebration, All are welcome. Ticket includes one packet of Holi colour. 10am, 12pm or 2pm. Earlybird tickets from £18. Discounts for groups. www.magicofindia.org/holicolourparty

Mar 12 & 24, May 6 & 21

Herstory of the Royal Opera House Tour, uncovering the stories of the women who made it. Lots of walking and info so suitable for older children. ROH recommends 5+. £16. Royal Opera House, WC2E 9DD www.roh.org.uk

Mar 15

Object Handling: Information Age

Families North London

The Stitch Festival Workshops, drop-in area, textile installations and specialist craft supplies. Adult £16.50, 5-18s £7.50. Workshops extra. Check for suitability. Business Design Centre, N1 0QH www.businessdesigncentre.co.uk

Food Wave pop-up and Meet the Scientists

Learn how to tackle climate change one meal at a time, and discover how museum research is helping us understand pressing impacts on the natural world. 11am-2pm. Hintze Hall, Natural History Museum, SW7 5HD. Free, drop-in. www.nhm.ac.uk

Masterpieces in Minecraft: Japan Drop in. 10am-4pm. Free, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org

Nearly New Sale

Top-quality baby and children’s

clothes sold by mums to mums at a fraction of the high street price. Parents with outgrown goods can sell and keep 100 per cent of the proceeds. 10am-12noon, Earlham Primary School, Earlham Grove, N22 5HJ. £2 on the door. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

Mar 25

The Itch!

Youth Theatre Taster Day for 12-17s to create innovative theatre through workshop activities and games in an inclusive environment. 1pm-5pm. Chicken Shed, N14 4PE. 12-17. £20. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Mar 25-Aug 13

After Impressionism: Inventing Modern Art

Celebrating the influences of three greats: Cezanne, Van Gogh and Gauguin on younger generations of artists. Featuring iconic works loaned worldwide. The National Gallery, WC2N 5DN. Good for teens. Entry to the gallery is free. Exhibition various prices. www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Mar 26

K'Mo B'Bayit Pesach

Israeli family get-together for Tu B’Shvat. Songs, games and festival surprises. In Hebrew. 3-6s. 11am. £15 per family. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET www.jw3.org.uk

Mar 26 & Apr 23

Guided Walk

10.30am-11.30am. Camley Street

Natural Park, N1C 4PW. 18+ and accompanied 12+. Free, must book. www.wildlondon.org.uk

From Mar 30

BBC Earth Experience

Travel the natural world and journey through seven continents in this new attraction. With bespoke narration from David Attenborough. From £28 adult and £22 child. The Dalkin Centre, SW6 1TW https://bbcearthexperience.com

Make your own Family Haggadah Workshop

Art and story-sharing workshop. 2pm & 4pm. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. 5-11. Child £10, adult £5. www.jw3.org.uk

Mar 31

Family Freestyle Workshop

Dance workshop on a theme, for 2-4s and their families. 2pm. From £4. Sadler’s Wells, Theatre, EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com

Mar 31-Jan 7 2024

Titanosaur: Life as the Biggest Dinosaur

Exhibition: Step into the colossal world of Patagotitan mayorum. Advance booking advised. Natural History Museum, SW7 5HD. 5+. All ages welcome. Adult £19.60, child £9. Various concs. See Apr 3 Bring a Titanosaur to Life Animation Workshop. www.nhm.ac.uk

Apr 1

Caribbean Takeover

Across the day. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF. All ages. Book free ticket or drop in. www.rmg.co.uk

Apr 1, 3, 4, 11, 14, 15

The Tempest Family Workshop

12pm. Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT. 9-12s and their families. £10. www.shakespearesglobe.com

Apr 1-15

Ways Into Drawing

Selected dates, check website.11am -4pm. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF. All ages, drop in, free. www.rmg.co.uk

Apr 1-16

Superworm

Trail. Explore the world of Superworm. Can you save him from Wizard Lizard? See how plants and animals work together. Kew Gardens, TW9 3AE. Included with entry. Adult from £17, child from £5, various concs. www.kew.org

Pilot Training

Face four challenges to get your Pilot Training passport. £5 or £10 for 3. Can book ahead. Plus free: family trails, interactive exhibits in RAF: First To The Future. And paid-for: 4D theatre, flight simulator, Spitfire Experience. Open every day. 10am -5pm. Must book free entry. Parking charge. RAF Museum. NW9 5LL.

www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london

Easter Activity Trail

Solve the riddles to find out who has left their eggs around the reserve. Discover the mysteries of nests and young animals. Rock painting available – can you design the ultimate egg? Plus self-led pond dipping. Check website for details. RSPB Rye Meads, SG12 8JS events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads

Easter Adventure Quest

10am-5pm

Explore for clues and discover traditional Easter games, find the eggs and win a treat. £2, pay on the day. If entering the house, book free timed ticket. Kenwood, NW3 7JR. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/places/kenwood

Momentous Moments

Meet time-travelling characters from London’s past and get crafty as you build your own futuristic vehicle in a hands-on workshop. London Transport Museum. The Piazza, WC2E 7BB. Free with admission. Kids go free. Adults £21 annual pass only. www.ltmuseum.co.uk

From Apr 1

The Box Rocket

Play exhibit running alongside permanent play spaces designed to fire up children’s imaginations. Must book. Discover Children’s Story Centre, Stratford, E5 4QZ. 0-8 https://discover.org.uk

Apr 2

Family Sing-A-Long: The Prince of Egypt

Join West End musical cast members for this for this child-friendly singalong screening. 3pm. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. All the family. Adult £10, child £9, under-2 free. www.jw3.org.uk

Apr 3

Science of Surgery

Get your hands on ther science of

surgery in this annual medical science fair for families. Meet scientists at UCL/WEISS and find out about their amazing research. Lots of hands-on demos to try. 11am-4pm. Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London, W1W 7TS. 5+ to adults. Free and no need to book. www.ucl.ac.uk/events

Apr 3

Family Funky Bubbles Soap Making 1pm-2.30pm. Chelsea Physic Garden,

SW3 4HS. 5+, Adult £20, child £15. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Apr 3, 6, 10. 13

Bring a Titanosaur to Life Animation Workshop Complements Titanosaur exhibition. Various times. 11+. £35. Natural History Museum, SW7 5HD www.nhm.ac.uk

Apr 4

Family Garden Workshop: Hunting for Weeds

Unlock the fascinating lives of these robust plants. 2pm-3pm. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. 5+, Adult £10, child £5. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

The Power of Patterns

Talk, with audience experiments to understand our relationship with patterns. 6pm-7.15pm. The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. Particularly suitable 11+. Adults £16, child £10. www.rigb.org

Apr 4 & 11

Out of this World: Moons Family workshop. 10.30am-12pm. Royal Observatory, SE10 8XJ. 7+. £5 per child www.rmg.co.uk

Apr 5 & 12

Delve Into The Jurassic

Meet modern-day relatives of the animals that lived alongside Dippy. Animal handling show. 11am, 12.15pm, 1.30pm. Natural History Museum, SW7 5HD. £8. www.nhm.ac.uk

Apr 5-Oct 29

Crown to Couture

How the trailblazing fashion of 18th century nobility has inspired celeb red carpet-looks. From Charles II to Lizzo and Lady Gaga, Kensington Palace,

W8 4PX. Adult £25.40, child £12.70. www.hrp.org.uk

Apr 6-10

Hoppy Easter Fun

Hunt down the giant eggs and unscramble the clues to receive an Easter treat. Visit the mini zoo and the holly maze. Plus Easter crafts and plant a seed to take home. 10am5pm. Capel Manor Gardens, EN1 4RQ. Adult £11, Child £8, under 2 free.

www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk

Apr 6 & 13

Holiday to Space

See a planetarium show before inter active workshop to help Ted decide which planet to holiday on. 10.30am12pm. Royal Observatory, SE10 8XJ. 3-6. £5 per child.

www.rmg.co.uk

Apr 7-9

Easter Trail

Discover the amazing world of plants – ends with a chocolate treat. Book timed slot for trail. 11am-4pm. Arrive any time. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. All ages but designed for children. Trail £5. Entry to garden adult £9.50, child £6.50. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Apr 11

Family Chocolate Workshop

Learn how chocolate is grown and create your own treats. 10am & 2pm. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. 5+ Adult £25, child £20.

www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Apr 11, May 5 & 21

Sleeping Beauty Tour with Lilac Fairy High Tea

Discover how magic and fairytale characters are brought to life in a 1hr tour, themed on Sleeping Beauty, followed by Lilac Fairy High Tea. 2pm. Check for extra dates. Royal Opera

What's On

House, WC2E 9DD. 12+. £55. www.roh.org.uk

Apr 12 & 14

Family Events: Macbeth

Two workshops, 11am. 9-12s and their families, and 5-8s and their families. £10. Macbeth Storytelling, 1hr. 1pm & 3pm. 5-12. £15.

Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT. www.shakespearesglobe.com

Apr 13

Family Garden Discovery: Relaxed

Sensory Tour

Take time to smell the flowers. 11am12.30pm. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. 5+. Adult £10, child £5. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uks

Apr 13, 15, May 28 and more

Family Events: A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Two workshops, 11am. 9-12 and their families, and 5-8 and their families, 11am.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream Storytelling, 1hr. 1pm & 3pm. 5-12 £15.

Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com

Apr 13-16

Easter Dragon Quest

Egg hunt in the forest, make your own clay dragon egg, weave a Celtic dream catcher, in a whole day of activities. 10am-4pm. Celtic Harmony Camp, Brickendon, SG13 8NY. All ages, £12.50. celticharmony.org

Apr 14

Fartology

The extraordinary science behind the humble fart. 2pm & 6pm. The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. Particularly suitable 7+. Adult £16, child £10. www.rigb.org

Apr 16

Book Buzz

Celebration of all things book – with book swap. 11am-4pm. artsdepot, N12 0GA. Check website for activities. All ages.. Free www.artsdepot.co.uk

Apr 21-23

The Cycle Show

The UK’s biggest cycling show, with stars of the sport, demo tracks, skills sessions and experts. 10am-5pm. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY. Adult from £16, child £7. www.alexandrapalace.com

Apr 22

The Wild Escape

Art workshops to celebrate Earth Day. Timed slots. Lauderdale House, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG. 7-11s. Free, must book. www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk

From May 19

Every Wednesday

Secret Garden Pop-Up Café

Check website for dates and events. Activity sessions and cafe. Salisbury House, Bush Hill Park, N9 9LA. www.thesecretgardenpopup.com

Looking ahead

May 19

Night Hike

In support of Nightingale Cancer Support Centre. 10k or 15k walk around Enfield. All ages www.nightingalesupport.org.uk/ nighthike

May 13-Jun 4

UniVerse: A Dark Crystal Odyssey

A tale of courage and selfsacrifice told in ballet and dance. Reimagines Jim Henson’s 1982 movie. £4-£27.50. Linbury Theatre, Royal Opera House, WC2E 9DD. All ages. £6-£35.

www.roh.org.uk

May 27-Jun 1

The Snail and The Whale

Join an adventurous young girl and her dad as they reimagine the story of a tiny snails trip around the world. Various times. Relaxed, May 31. artsdepot, N12 0GA. 4+ From £12. www.artsdepot.co.uk

May 31-Jun 1

In The Night Garden Live

Various times. The Alban Arena, St Albans, AL1 3LD. Adult from £18.50, child from £16.50. alban-arena.co.uk

Jun 4

Disney 100

Concert with legendary film scenes to celebrate 100 years of Disney. 4.30pm. From £36. The O2, SE10 0DX www.theo2.co.uk

Jun 13-Aug 20

Summer Exhibition 2023

Eclectic, vibrant and innovative art exhibition, ideal for introducing children to art. Royal Academy of Arts, W1J 0BD. Paid entry. www.royalacademy.org.uk

Jul 22-Aug 26

Midsummer Mechanicals

The runaway hit of last summer returns. Will get booked up quickly. Check out their family workshops and events too. Undercover in the Sam Wannamaker Playhouse, Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT. 5-105. £18-£28

www.shakespearesglobe.com

Aug 11-Sep 3

Dinosaur World Live

The roarsome adventure is back. Join intrepid explorers to meet a host of creatures. With meet and greet after. Regents Park Open Air Theatre, through Queen Mary’s Garden, Regents Park. NW1 4NU. 3+. From £15.20. openairtheatre.com

...and further afield

Mar 19

Sunday Leisure Walks

Guided walk with Active Herts. around 4 miles. Meet 10am. Rye House Gatehouse, Lee Valley Park, EN11 0EH. Go with older children/teens. Free.

Mar 20

A Guide to the Walthamstow Night Sky

Introduction to urban stargazing with a tour through the wetlands to see the sky. 6.30pm-8.30pm. Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH. Older children and teens. £20.21. www.wildlondon.org.uk

Mar 24

Open Evening Bayfordbury Observatory

Meet experts, see demonstrations, planetarium tour, weather permitting view interesting sky objects. Bayfordbury Observatory, Hertfordshire University, SG13 8LD. All ages. Adults £10, concs £5. www.herts.ac.uk/bayfordbury/ bayfordbury-observatory/visitbayfordbury-observatory/publicopen-evenings

Mar 25

Lee Valley Minithon Athletics fest. Children can compete in three events and have fun. Lee Valley Athletics Centre, N9 0AR. Year 3 to Year 7. £20 www.better.org.uk/leisurecentre/lee-valley/athleticscentre/kids-activities

Mar 25

Willow’s Great Big Duck Race

Hook a duck, decorate a duck and join the duck race in aid of Willow Foundation. 3pm. Lee Valley White Water Centre, EN9 1AB. All ages Free to attend. Racing duck £6. Ducks can be bought online and will be raced for you. www.willowfoundation.org.uk/ events/duckrace/

Apr 1-16

Easter Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt

Find the bunny statues and uncover fascinating stories. Plus win a chocolate treat. Alternatives available. 3-12. Overlaps with Tulip Festival Apr 14-May 1. Hampton Court Palace, KT8 9AU. Included in admission. www.hrp.org.uk

Apr 16

Statues in the Park Guided walk. 2.3m. Meet Fishers Green Car Park (charges apply) EN9 2EF 11am. Suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. Walk Free. www.visitleevalley.org.uk/eventlistings

These venues often have holiday family events No details as we went to press

Little Angel Theatre

www.littleangeltheatre.com

The Cartoon Museum www. cartoonmuseum.org

The Design Museum, holiday courses for 10-14s www. designmuseum.org

Dugdale Centre www. dugdalecentre.co.uk

Bank of England Museum

www.bankofengland.co.uk

National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Rd, SW3 4HT. Character meets www.nam.ac.uk

Lewis of London Ice Cream Farm, Galley Lane, EN5 www.lewisoflondon.co.uk

The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. STEM holiday workshops. www.rigb.org

Parties & Celebrations

Little Supernovas create imaginative parties with an adventure tailored to your child’s wishes and theme and include all their favourite magical characters and stories. Our parties and clubs incorporate action storytelling, music, props, drama, movement and plenty of giggles. Easter holiday club, N6, www.littlesupernovas.com/parties hello@littlesupernovas.com

Education

Giggling Panda Chinese School

We are a Chinese language school established in 2015 specialising in innovative Mandarin language courses for children aged 3-12 in London. Classes suitable for children with or without Mandarin background. At Giggling Panda the focus is very much on fun. We guarantee an immersive experience full of stories, art, crafts, games, songs, poems about Chinese history and traditions, and formal language learning through professional in-house content. Classes at weekends, various choices, at North/East Finchley and Watford. Contact us for a trial on 0793 249 4420. ✉admin@gigglingpanda. co.uk www.gigglingpanda.co.uk

Magic of India

Hindi classes

Speak from the first lesson. No previous knowledge needed. Small group zoom classes. Missed class support. Classes: 5-7, 8-14, 16-adult. New toddler singalong. Private lessons. Free trial class. Quick learning holiday clubs too. "Geeta uses English teaching methods and merges them with songs, poems, drawing, colouring, and various other innovative methods so children are engaged in learning Hindi and at the same time learn about their culture." magicofindia.org

Ant Learning

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 0208 050 5798. www.antlearning.co.uk

Kumon

Delivering proven academic success in maths and English, through work that is set at just the right level for your child, keeping them engaged and making progress to develop their confidence and help them thrive at school. One week free trial promotion is running at Kumon Finchley Central now. 07548 335707. www.kumon.co.uk

"I saw you in Families magazine and "

Purple Pages

Hillgate Tutors

We offer support from age 5 to university, understanding your child’s needs and matching them with one of our highlyqualified passionate educators who will create a tailored learning plan. Hillgate Tutors listen, guide, encourage and monitor your child to help them achieve their absolute best. Tutoring at your home or online. 07748 956581 to discuss.

www.hillgatetutors.co.uk

Vincent & Frida

Art appreciation lessons designed to 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 www.vincentandfrida.com

Sports & Excercise

St Kiernan’s Gaelic Football Club - an inclusive, fun environment for kids and adults to learn how to play this high intensity game. Teams from under-6s to senior men and ladies of all abilities. We welcome newcomers to all age groups and the sport can be picked up easily from our excellent coaches. Summer training at our new facility at King George Playing Fields, Barnet Lane, EN5. Winter training is at Woodhouse College, North Finchley. Call Chris Byrne on 07984 184003 or Declan Ryan on 07818 023639

Performing Arts

Perform Classes

Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Visit www.perform. org.uk/try to book a FREE class.

Venues: N1, N2, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, N13, N14, New Classes N16, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, NW2, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11, EC1R, EC1Y, W1H.

Easter holiday club: The Jungle Book 3 fun-packed days of magic for 4-10s. Apr 3-5: Highgate, Muswell Hill, Primrose Hill, Islington. Apr 12-14: Clerkenwell, Crouch End, Highbury, St John;s Wood. www.perform.org.uk/junglebook

020 7255 9120 ✉enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

Lemon Jelly Arts

Performing Arts

Academy

Classes, Holiday Workshops, LAMDA and in School Workshops/PPA cover. We nurture talent within every child to release confidence for whatever their future holds, and courage to pursue any dream!

Classes in Mill Hill and East Barnet. Jelly Tots 3-5 years, Academy Classes 5-7 and 8-10 years, Fusion Theatre Company for ages 11+

01858 545599

✉office@lemonjellyarts.com www.lemonjellyarts.com

We aim 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 and offer two-week trials. To find out more visit our website at www.stagecoach.co.uk/highgate

Achieve Arts

Unlock creativity, develop performance skills, confidence, solo speaking skills, improvisations and characterisation at our classes for 4-16s, in Crouch End, Muswell Hill, New Harringay Ladder, Tufnell Park, Hampstead Garden Suburb, New Mill Hill, and Pinner. Online classes too. Check out website for details of our Easter Holiday Classes. 100% Lamda success rate. Book a free trial. www.achievearts.co.uk

YPS of Acting

Students learn acting from the best in the business in a fun, inclusive and exhilarating space. High-quality weekly classes for 10-18s taught by professional actors. Act for screen, accents, fight combat and more. Up to 3 industry workshops every term. Audition entry only. All experience levels welcome. Week 1 acts as a trial week.

✉ Info@theyoungactingpro.com

 07342 189 886

Fb & Instagram: @ypsofacting www.TheYoungProSchool ofActing. com

Schools & Nurseries

Hyland House School

A Christian, independent school, we empower our 2 to 11-yearolds to aim high and dream big. Our children are achieving excellence. Our Early Years is Ofsted-graded Outstanding. 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 ✉info@hylandhouseschool.org www.hylandhouseschool.org

Mars Montessori in Angel is a small bilingual FrenchEnglish Montessori nursery. We provide very highquality childcare in a nurturing environment in two languages. In September 2018, we introduced an Introduction to Mandarin programme, and we are proud of the brilliant take up. In April 2018, we were given the highest possible rating of OUTSTANDING by Ofsted in every category. 020 7099 0452 www.bilingualnurseries.com

Hendon Prep

Independent school and independentlyrated outstanding preschool for boys and girls from 3-11 years. We understand every child is unique and offer a vibrant and creative curriculum in a nurturing and stimulating school environment. To find out more contact admissions at admissions@hendonprep.co.uk or call 020 8203 7727.

College Francais Bilingue de Londres

Based in the heart of London, CFBL provides exceptional English-French bilingual education to girls and boys from Nursery to Year 10. Our pupils are nurtured in a welcoming environment where they can discover the joys of learning, supported by attentive teaching staff. CFBL is a multicultural environment with over 35 different nationalities, where pupils grow into creative, open-minded individuals. www.cfbl.org.uk

We've been igniting the spark of genius in every child since 1872, and provide a world class education for children age 2-18 at our international school. We follow the rich rich and stimulating International Baccalaureate programmes. www.dwightlondon.org

North Bridge House Schools

Independent school for children aged 2 to 18, on six locations for different age groups. We understand that success is not simply defined by outstanding academic achievement, but by every pupil finding a direction in life that truly reflects their unique talents and personality. Call admissions to check for occasional immediate places on 020 7428 1520. www.northbridgehouse.com

St Anthony's School for Boys

St Anthony’s School for Boys is set to open a brand new coeducational nursery in 2023. Founded in 1898, the school has an excellent reputation for both its academic and pastoral approach and values curious and creative learners. The nursery is part of the St Anthony’s group of nurseries and will afford priority admission to both St Anthony’s schools. To register interest, please email, pahead@stanthonysprep.co.uk www.stanthonysprep.org.uk

Wellbeing

Special Yoga for Special Children

Special Yoga to improve the lives of children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, Down's syndrome, cerebral palsy. Benefits include Improved sleep, behaviour and emotional balance. Over 10 years experience. Discount for low income families.

✉ natalijaspeciayoga1@outlook.com

 07342 720365

Kassia Karr Photography

London-based photographer specializing in family, maternity and newborn photography. I use my documentary background to create stunning, impactful images of your special moments and milestones, with a unique style. Naturally-lit photographs celebrate the everyday and capture the essence of the wonderful families I work with.

Bookings open for Spring and Summer 2023. Mini sessions are available. www.kassiakarrphotography.com

Baby & Toddler

Colourstrings

Kindergartens for a brilliant start and longterm success in music! Develop your child’s musical talent in Kodaly-based music kindergartens and instrumental programmes 6ms to 6yrs, and avoid waits for our instrumental programme for 5-19s. Muswell Hill, Highgate, Islington, Stoke Newington, Hendon, Call 020 8444 9435 for a trial of 3 discounted lessons or email admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk

Diddidance – We create a funky pre-school dance class suitable for all children. We are here to nurture their love of movement in a relaxed environment and cover 16 dance styles. Classes are suitable for toddlers aged from 18 months up, however if they’re younger and steady on their feet, come and join us!

We run classes in Enfield, Cheshunt and Potters Bar.

Constantina—07983972095

constantina.menezes@diddidance.com www.diddidance.com

Tiny Talk – Learn to communicate with your baby before they can speak, at an award-winning TinyTalk baby signing class. Interactive music class and sensory activities, plus time for a cuppa.

www.TinyTalk.co.uk/zahrak

Cavendish Tots Creative movement classes 18ms to 3. Thurs. New for Jan. Camden. bit.ly/Cavtot

Grown-Ups Matter Too

Choices

Explore your parenting struggles in a welcoming environment. Our Circle of Security Parenting course helps parents understand how to meet their babies and toddlers' real emotional needs providing secure foundations into adulthood. Plus counselling for concerns inc unplanned pregnancy, anxiety during pregnancy and pregnancy loss. Member of the British Assocation of Counselling and Psychotherapy. www.choicesislington.org/ parenting-course

Rebel Business School – Find out how to get your business idea off the ground with a free course from Rebel Business School — a funded initiative to boost business start-ups and to help businesses grow. therebelschool.com/enfield

Mars Montessori

Dwight School London

North Bridge House