Families SW London April 2018 issue 275

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A mine of information!

Issue 275 April 2018

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Casual Dining, Serious Cuisine Authentic, high-quality, French bistro-style food served by friendly staff offering a prix fixe and extensive a la carte menu. Dinners available Tuesday through to Saturday.

Lunch Thursday to Sunday. Breakfast menu available Saturdays and Sundays from 10am. £12.50 2 courses prix fixe menu available everyday except Sunday.

French Kitchen, 216 Trinity Road, SW17 7HP. A stone’s throw from Wandsworth Common.

020 8767 2720 www.frenchkitchenandbistro.co.uk

2 Families South West • April 2018

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Contents Lindt Bunny Hunt at Hampton Court Palace

THIS ISSUE IS ALL ABOUT

EASTER! We’ve got Easter eggs hunts, Easter camps, activities for babies and toddlers and much more— enough to occupy all ages!

Families SW|Issue 275

4-5

Local news

6

Families Top Five activities this month

7-13

EDUCATION

9

Open days

11

Teach your child to love reading alone

13

Special Education Needs •Five early signs of autism •Touch Typing and SEN

16-20

EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 2 Developing skills, arts, music, dance, drama, sports etc

20

Book now for your child’s summer activities

22

Alternative Easter Gift Guide Special Easter gifts this year that aren’t made of chocolate

24-28

BABY FEATURE Great local services: Post natal fitness, baby swimming, childcare solutions, cranial osteopathy and more •What to do if your child is poorly •New Health visitor service •Swimming with baby •Sing with baby with Pram Chorus

29-35

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

®

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April 2018 • Families South West 3

NEWS

An exciting opportunity to get involved in a children's opera–free of charge!

KIDS GO WILD! #lionopera could be coming to a primary school near you! Combining music, performance and wildlife conservation, this innovative new children’s opera is an exciting opportunity for Key Stage 2 students. Leading British composer James Olsen has joined forces with animal charities Born Free, The Donkey Sanctuary and LionAid to present the second instalment of his children’s #lionopera – ‘One of Our Lions is Missing!’ Primary schools up and down the country can signup free of charge to stage their own production this summer, with a range of digital support resources provided. ‘Born Free’s heritage with lions goes back over 50 years,’ said co-founder of the Born Free Foundation, Virginia McKenna, ‘and it is vital that our message of Compassionate Conservation is brought to each new generation. James’s genius has created #lionopera, an exciting, powerful and engaging musical opportunity.’

To find out more or to get your school involved, go to http://olsenverlag.com/lionopera

‘CREATE’ BREAKS DOWN BARRIERS Award-winning arts charity Create is delivering More Creative, a creative arts programme bringing adults with learning difficulties and primary school children together. The programme offers a chance for people with and without disabilities to collaborate on creative projects, breaking down barriers and developing shared understanding using creative arts to promote community cohesion. ‘The inclusive nature of More Creative is enabling both schoolchildren and adults with disabilities to develop new skills and shared understanding,’ said Create’s Co-Founder, Nicky Goulder. ‘I can’t wait to see friendships blossom and creativity flourish, and I’m excited to see their sculpture on permanent display in Southwark Park.’ www.createarts.org.uk

NEW DADS MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS New research reveals that almost 40% of men experience anxieties after having children. The research released by the Priory Group of Harley Street, London also claims to show that thousands of men experience anxiety—and in some cases depression—as they enter fatherhood. One in five men believed they were actually suffering from Paternal Post Natal Depression, although only 2% were officially diagnosed. This accords with earlier research by the parenting charity the NCT, which showed around 1 in 3 new fathers are concerned about their mental health.

The increased pressures of fatherhood, more financial responsibility, changes in relationships and lifestyle, combined with a lack of sleep and an increased workload at home, may all affect a new dad’s mental wellbeing. Concern about their partner is another worry for new fathers.

The NCT found that almost three quarters (73%) of dads were worried about their partner’s mental health.

For more information visit www.nct.org.uk/dads-PND or www.priorygroup.com

4 Families South West • April 2018

SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR LIE-INS Unfortunately for our lie-ins, children are led by our actions, so if we want our children to go out and play outdoors, we need to go to! Outdoor sport is about more than physical exercise, it builds their immune system, improves their attention span and encourages teamwork, so that means you need to be on the sidelines all year round!

A wise man once said “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing”, so wrap your kids up, shove a hot water bottle down your jumper and get outside!

Try Time Kids Rugby offer individual or small group coaching sessions, as well as school holiday rugby camps for players aged between 6-18 years.

There is a strong emphasis on fun but also on personal development on and off the field. www.trytimerugby.com

NEW HOME FOR STRINGS CLUB The Strings Club is delighted to announce its new home for their award-winning programmes in South West London: Tooting Primary in SW17.

Tooting Primary and The Strings Club share a lot of common values—inspiring children to learn new skills, promote confidence and help children fulfil their potential.

All of The Strings Club’s programmes will be available to aspiring young musicians aged 4-11 in the Tooting area, with Term Time courses, Holiday Camps and Parties to look forward throughout 2018. Plus special Discovery Days are a chance to try out instruments for free! To find out more go to www.thestringsclub.org/tooting or call 0121 296 9204.

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NEWS

HELP REQUIRED TO SET UP A COMMUNITY INTEREST COMPANY Families’ favourite First Hand Experiences are hoping to become a Community Interest Company—a social enterprise that channels its profits and assets for the public good, which means that when your child goes on one of their camps or clubs you will also be helping other children access their unique programme of activities who might not otherwise be able—what a great idea! This spring they are launching a dynamic crowdfunding campaign designed to raise funds for their sleep away camp facilities and awareness of what they are about, so if you have experience in working in marketing/PR/ funding or think you can contribute with your skills and bags of enthusiasm then do get in touch. They are offering pro bono pay such as free camps for your children in exchange for at least a day a week of your time from now to mid May. With the camp season coming up this could be a good opportunity for those with some time to get free childcare and contribute to a wonderful innovative and rewarding campaign! Find out more at www.firsthandexperiences.co.uk or call 01843 652833.

BOOK YOUR CHILD'S RUGBY NOW Brixton Bulls Rugby League are recruiting boys and girls ahead of their season in the summer term, when they will play in various festivals against other clubs. They are also further expanding to Years 7 to 11, to add to the existing Reception to Year 6 teams. The club are holding a free Open Day on Saturday 21st April for Reception to Year 6 at 10.30 am and Year 7 to 11 at 12pm. Brixton Bulls is the only rugby club in Lambeth, and one of the fastest growing rugby clubs in London. Sessions are every Saturday at those times, year round (during term time) at Woodmansterne Playing Fields, 49 Stockport Road, SW16 5XE. For more information or to register email info@minibullsrugby.co.uk or visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/brixtonbullsrlfc

FAMILY LUNCH AT THE IMPERIAL ARMS, CHELSEA It’s fantastic to see pubs peeling off the old layers and transforming into beautiful spaces that families can enjoy: The Imperial Arms on the Fulham/ Chelsea border, one of the last remaining original Victorian pub buildings, has been entirely refurbished, providing a real home from home experience. The stunning building has been given an extensive makeover which blends the great character of this traditional pub with a sleek modern style that reflects the best of British design. Enjoy delicious lazy Sunday brunches or roasts in the beautifully restored garden with your family or hire the party room upstairs for children’s parties or events.

577 Kings Road, Chelsea, SW6 2EH. 020 7736 6081 www.the-imperial-arms.com

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TECHNOLOGY: GOOD FOR LEARNING, BUT IS IT HEALTHY? Recent research indicates that a staggering 96% of teachers believe technology has had a positive impact on the way children participate and learn in a lesson, whilst 56% believe that pupils are more engaged when technology is used, according to a survey conducted by Smoothwall.com, a web filtering provider for schools. An impressive 86% of teachers also say that technology has made them perform better and prepare more varied and exciting lessons. And parents are on board too. A survey conducted by TheKnowledgeAcademy.com shows that 91% of parents believe technology is making it easier for them to be involved with their child’s education and 68% say that technology has increased their ability to help children with school work.

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

Curious about whether sleeping with their phones next to their heads was having an adverse effect on their ability to concentrate, a group of secondary school students devised an experiment to investigate the impact of wi-fi radiation on living cells. The experiment entailed placing one set of six trays of cress seeds in each of two rooms. The temperature in both rooms was kept constant, and all the trays received the same amount of water and access to sunlight throughout the experiment. But in one room the trays were placed next to two wi-fi routers. The wi-fi router emits the same type of radiation as mobile phones, allowing the students to recreate the impact of sleeping with your phone near your head.

After 12 days, the cress seeds in the room without wi-fi were flourishing, whereas the seeds in the room with the router showed no real growth.

The results from the students’ experiment are similar to the findings by King’s College London and Cardiff University that suggested having a device even when switched off in a child’s bedroom can cause sleep disruption. A good solution is to ban mobiles in bedroom, and to turn off routers at night; you could also fit a R2L to the back of your child’s phone, to help protect against the long-term effects of radiation (not tested by us). www.screen2bsafe.com

April 2018 • Families South West 5

FAMILIES TOP FIVE...

MICHAEL ROSEN’S CHOCOLATE CAKE

AWFUL AUNTIE

Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com To 13 May When I was a boy, I had a favourite treat…Chocolate Cake! Follow the adventures of two brothers and the night-time disappearance of a chocolate cake in this scrumptious new musical adaptation by the creators of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and How to Hide a Lion from Michael Rosen’s beloved poem Chocolate Cake, which has just been published as a picture book. Age 4+, tickets from £10. We love this perfection from Polka – get your ticket now and don’t miss out!

Plus, take part in a Chocolate Cake Workshop on 11 April and explore Michael Rosen’s story through creative and imaginative drama and crafts.

10.30am-3.30pm, age 5-7, £30.

New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledon-theatre 24-28 April When Stella sets off to visit London with her parents, Lord and Lady Saxby, she has no idea her life is in danger.

Waking up three months later, only her Aunt Alberta can tell Stella what has happened. But not everything Alberta tells her Awful Auntie by Birmingham Stage Company. turns out to be true and Stella quickly discovers she’s in for the fight of her life against her very own awful Auntie. From the award-winning West End producers of Gangsta Granny comes the world premiere of David Walliams’ amazing tale of frights, fights and friendship, featuring a very large owl, a very small ghost and a very awful Auntie!

TO THE MOON

Photography by Ash

Lyric Hammersmith One Lyric Square W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 21 April Join a princess like no other as she embarks on the biggest journey of her life – to the Moon! But how will she get there? A magical, playful and charmingly entertaining circus theatre show—with two performers and many more characters, this brilliantly comical story-telling performance uses an aerial rope, hoop and bags of imagination. Age 2-5, £8.

LONDON CHILDREN’S BALLET – THE CANTERVILLE GHOST Peacock Theatre WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com 19-22 April London Children’s Ballet returns to the West End with a ballet based on Oscar Wilde’s witty novella. Sir Simon Canterville has haunted his ancestral home successfully for centuries. That is until an American family moves in. While the youngest family members gleefully torment the indignant ghost, their older sister bravely decides to set him free forever.

Set in the roaring 20s, The Canterville Ghost is performed by an all-child cast and set to the music of a live orchestra. Age 5+.

6 Families South West • April 2018

BEGINNERS The Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com To 15 April Three families are trapped in a waterlogged holiday cottage over summer. The children are bored.

The adults are down the pub. So far so normal. Renowned, awardwinning writer and director Tim Crouch (National Theatre, Royal Court, Unicorn) presents this joyous and imaginative new play for families everywhere. An extraordinary Easter Holiday show for everyone who has ever wanted to be understood.

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Photo by Mark Douet

Here are our top picks of the best theatre for the whole family to see this April…

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April 2018 • Families South West 7

Christ Church Street French Nursery

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

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

8 Families South West • April 2018

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

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

Children from 1 year old are welcome.

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

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Call to book your place NOW

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS 2018 Compiled by Joanna Parry

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

MORE HOUSE SCHOOL 11-18 Girls Visits by arrangement in April and May, Open Evening will be in October 020 7235 2855 www.morehouse.org.uk

SW4 EATON HOUSE THE MANOR 8-13 Boys Open Days in Summer Term TBC 9-10.30am 020 7924 6000 www.eatonhouseschools.com

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

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

SW6 FULHAM PREP SCHOOL 4-13 Co-Ed Pre-Prep Open Morning 26/6 9.15am, 10.15am and 11.15am, call to book a place and time slot 020 7471 4217, Prep School tours by appointment only 020 7386 2444 www.fulhamprep.co.uk

school offers showrounds on Wednesday and Friday mornings 020 7225 3131 www.hydeparkschool.co.uk

QUEEN’S GATE SCHOOL 4-18 Girls Senior School Open Day 10/5 and 27/6 020 7589 3587 www.queensgate.org.uk

SW10 REDCLIFFE SCHOOL 3-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 11/5 9am at the Pre-Prep, plus Tours Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout April and May 9.30am booking required 020 7352 9247 www.redcliffeschool.com

SW11 THE DOMINIE 6-11 Co-Ed Tours by appointment Please contact the school to find out more about their specialist teaching for dyslexic children 020 7720 8783 www.thedominie.co.uk

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

DOLPHIN SCHOOL 3-13 Co-Ed Open Mornings every Thursday 9.15-10.40am by appointment 020 7924 3472 www.dolphinschool.org.uk

PUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL 4-18 Girls 16+ Open Evenings will be held in the Summer Term, plus bookings are already open for their annual Open Week from 13/10 020 8788 4886 www.putneyhigh.gdst.net

FALCONS SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 7-11 Girls Open Day 28/4 10.30am-12.30pm 020 8892 5180 www.falconsgirls.co.uk

MERLIN SCHOOL 4-8 Co-Ed Open Day 11/5, book in advance 020 8788 2769 www.merlinschool.net

SW16 STREATHAM & CLAPHAM HIGH SCHOOL 11-18 Girls Nursery, Reception, Years 1 and 2 Open Morning 18/4 9-10.45am register online 020 8677 8400 www.schs.gdst.net

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

PARK HOUSE SCHOOL / TRAM HOUSE SCHOOL 4-19 Co-Ed Open Days 19/4, 24/5 and 21/6 1-3pm 020 3031 9705 www.beyondautismschools.org.uk

ST MICHAEL’S CE PRIMARY SCHOOL 4-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings by appointment only 4/6, 11/6 and 18/6 020 8874 7786 www.stmichaels.wandsworth.sch.uk

PARSONS GREEN PREP

SW12

4-11 Co-Ed Midweek tours on Thursdays at 9am by appointment only, Open Day will be in September or October TBC 020 7371 9009 www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

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

L’ECOLE DES PETITS

HORNSBY HOUSE SCHOOL

4-11 Co-Ed School visits are held on Thursday mornings until May 0207 371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk

4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 7/6 9am 020 8673 7573 www.hornsbyhouse.org.uk

4-11 Girls Tours on Tuesdays throughout April, May and June 9.20-10.30am 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk

THE WHITE HOUSE PREPARATORY SCHOOL 2-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 21/4

WILLINGTON INDEPENDENT PRIMARY SCHOOL

SW7

9.30-11.30am www.whitehouseschool.com

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

SW13

THE HAMPSHIRE SCHOOL

LONDON STEINER SCHOOL

SW19 THE STUDY PREP SCHOOL

THE HARRODIAN SCHOOL

WIMBLEDON COMMON PREP (also known as Squirrels)

4-18 Co-Ed 11+ Open Mornings throughout the Summer Term TBC 020 8762 6321 www.harrodian.com

4-7 Boys Open Morning 16/5 9.15-11am, go to website to make a booking 020 8946 1001 www.wimbledoncommonprep.co.uk

ST NICHOLAS PREPARATORY SCHOOL

WIMBLEDON HIGH SCHOOL

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

SW14

11-18 Girls Junior School (4+ and 7+ entry) 2/5, Senior School (11+) Open Morning 18/4, Sixth Form Open Evening 22/5 020 8971 0900 www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net

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

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

FRANCISCAN PRIMARY SCHOOL 4-11 Co-Ed Reception and Nursery Schools Tours throughout April and May 9.15am 020 8672 3048 www.franciscan.wandsworth.sch.uk

HYDE PARK SCHOOL 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 9/5 11am, or the

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

SW15 IBSTOCK PLACE SCHOOL 3-18 Co-Ed The Prep School Open Mornings 2/5 and 20/6 9.30am, The Senior School Open Evening 9/5 5-7pm (for prospective entry in 2019) booking required 020 8876 9991 / 020 8392 5803 www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk

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

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

SE22 JAMES ALLEN’S GIRLS’ SCHOOL 4-18 Girls Tours Wednesday mornings by appointment only 020 8693 1181 www.jags.org.uk

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

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April 2018 • Families South West 9

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

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

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

10 Families South West • April 2018

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EDUCATION

Teach your child to love reading alone

By Justine Crow

We all have that exquisite oft-repeated childhood memory, don't we? Nose in a book, legs dangling, miles from those meddling adults—metaphorically at any rate...

So why is it so impossible for our own children to achieve literary independence; that feeling of wanting neither the chapter nor the afternoon to end?

Instead, when your child proclaims that they are bored and you suggest they read a book, their sceptical facial expression says it all. But it is hardly surprising that there's a difference in our experience—we grew up without mobile phones, tablets, Xboxes, YouTube, or the lure of Minecraft. It was even customary then to have the telly rationed.

Now, it would be a miracle if they could concentrate long enough to watch a whole CBBC programme undisturbed. Here are my top ten tips for ensuring the book is as much of a distraction as its digital competition.

1. Start them young Board books, cloth books, lift the tab. Show them how it works and then let them do it themselves. Don't be precious. Let them bite and chew and tear. Keep the delicate pop-ups out of reach.

2. Encourage growing babes to turn the pages themselves Not only will they get an idea of how a book functions very quickly, it will also help develop the fine motor skills that are essential for learning.

3. When choosing books for toddlers, consider their complexity Hardbacks are desirable but they are heavy for little hands.

With siblings around, especially newborns, have a box of books the first child can escape to. Tell them it is theirs and nobody else's. They can choose to share with the new baby or enjoy by themselves.

4. When they are tiddlers, keep tablets and phones solely for games—preferably educational ones Small children need the magic of a physical book to encourage their love of reading. As they grow older, ereaders have their place, such as on long journeys but don't forget, not only do children spend a lot of leisure time online, their schools increasingly use technology in the classroom. For them, screens are the norm, not a refuge.

5. The switch from picture books to chapters is an exciting rite of passage Now that they can actually read words, celebrate by going to the library or bookshop and allowing them to choose stories to try. It's

okay for them to discover they don't like something they've picked out— they will find their preference in time. Don't put them off 'big' books— most modern kids manage to get through the Harry Potters without a problem. The arcane language of many children's classics is tough to make sense of, even for a seasoned adult reader, but let them have a go.

6. Get them to make a bookmark and feel proud of how many pages they clock up without interruption.

7. Tintin is the perfect type of leave-alone-reading Just because graphic novels are illustrated doesn't mean they lack in quality; just listen to the giggles when they get an Asterix book to themselves. Many favourite authors are available in accessible comic book form, especially the classics. Short story anthologies are less daunting and juicy fact books are often hard to put down.

8. Lead by example if your child sees you gaining pleasure from the simple act of finding a corner and a book to retreat with, even for a mere five minutes, they will follow. Inevitably into the same corner as you!

9. Don't push them to read at bedtime when eyes and minds may be tired Offer to finish a chapter aloud for them instead. It will keep them wanting more. And if they turn the light back on after you've closed the door to continue the adventure, is it really such a crime?

10. Don't force them, ever Reverse psychology is a wonderful device.

Keep screens for the mundane, for emergencies and homework. It is pretty hard to 'love' an e-reader, to 'treasure' a download—and how can a beloved library be built out of something that cannot be 'seen?'

As an adult, there is nothing quite like the sheer heavenliness of being left in private with something thrilling and absorbing. Get it right and they'll long for that sensation all their lives. However, nagging your offspring to read will have the opposite effect—this is one of the proven laws of parenting, after all. Now do you mind, I've got a chapter to finish…

Justine Crow is the author of The Little Book of Nits published by Bloomsbury. Parent of three, with her partner she owns her very own bookshop The Bookseller Crow on the Hill, and is a qualified swimming teacher. www.booksellercrow.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

April 2018 • Families South West 11

All our applicants are personally interviewed and their references checked

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

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

12 Families South West • April 2018

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

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SPECIAL EDUCATION NEEDS

Five early signs of autism Touch typing and SEN Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder can mean parents don’t have to wait for their child to start school to implement intervention programmes. Early autism intervention programmes can address the primary behavioural symptoms of autism in children from as young as 18 months of age and can have long term positive effects.

In a world where online activity is dominating the way we communicate, computers, laptops and tablets are fast becoming an essential item for everyone. Being able to touch type is therefore an invaluable skill—as important as learning to drive or cook a basic meal. A skill that once learnt will be appreciated forever.

Many children with autism appear to be developing typically until they start pre-school or kindergarten, when language and social delays stand out in contrast to the development of their peers.

A touch typer is not reliant on looking at the keyboard, so focus is not wasted on finding the keys. Being able to type as fast as you can think means that ideas flow more readily, so you are immediately more productive, detailed and expressive in your written work.

These five signs of autism can be observed in children as young as 12 to 24 months of age.

Your child does not look when you point at something.

A child with autism may not look when you point at an object across the room and may not follow your gaze when you look at something.

Your child does not point with one finger to request items or get help.

A child with autism may not use gestures like pointing with one finger to ask for things or to direct your attention.

Your child does not respond to his or her name.

Children with autism may not understand the response you expect when you say their name, or they may not be motivated to respond in the same way as a typically developing child.

Touch typing is a necessity for some children Most significantly, recent research into learning difficulties like dyslexia or dyspraxia has concluded that touch typing is not only a huge benefit for those with SEN, but in some cases is considered to be a necessity. Not only is it a relief for children who struggle with handwriting, but it also helps with spelling, as word patterns are learnt using muscle memory.

Intelligent children, who were once falling behind in class, due to having difficulty translating the thoughts in their head onto paper, feel liberated.

Their self confidence is boosted, as is the quality of their written work.

And the results speak for themselves.

Naomi Martin Touch Typing teaches children how to touch type in one week and to make it fun as well! For more information go to www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk

Your child avoids looking you in the eye.

A child with autism may find eye contact challenging or painful and may avoid looking you in the eye when you are talking to, playing with, or dressing him or her.

Your child ignores you or does not seem to understand directions.

A child with autism may have trouble understanding spoken language.

If you have concerns about your child, contact your GP or healthcare provider today.

For more information on early intervention visit www.autism.org.uk or www.gemiini.org, which is a web based learning programme offering online video modeling to parents without a formal diagnosis or access to regular services.

Familiesonline.co.uk

April 2018 • Families South West 13

0844 879 7189 www.likeminders.co.uk

PUBLIC SPEAKING Individual Tuition: Verse & Prose, Reading, Acting, Interview Technique, Confidence.

LAMDA/Trinity exams taken.

C. Price. 0207 735 3156 / 07721 762351 clareprice@tiscali.co.uk A. Wieland. tony@wieland.force9.co.uk

14 Families South West • April 2018

Calling all baby Scientists!

Help us discover how babies learn!

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

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

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April 2018 • Families South West 15

EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 2

Compiled by Joanna Parry

Did you get our March issue with Part 1? We listed Arts & Craft activities, lots of sporting activities, day camps, music, science, drama, touch typing, confidence building, learning with technology, French camps in France, learning with nature and more. We’ve done the research for you, all you have to do is to choose and book.

• If you missed the March issue, you can find it on www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed. Please double check event with the organiser to avoid disappointment.

spot of Pond Dipping or find out how to build a nest during one of the Wild Play sessions.

DOVE STUDIOS

RHS GARDEN WISLEY

105 Dovehouse Street, Chelsea SW3 6JZ 07775 682094 www.dove-studios.com 9-13 April Easter Holiday Art Camp Painting and drawing, making cards and gifts, puppet making, felt making and much more in these fun, intensive holiday camps. Age 6-8, 1-3pm, £250 for the week.

Wisley Lane, Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB 01483 224234 www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley To 15 April Easter Holiday Fun - Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt Hop through the garden on the trail of the Lindt Gold Bunny and follow the clues that lead you to a delicious treat.

Bring your family along for a full day of Easter fun every day and join in with hands-on arts and craft sessions. Under 5s go free.

OUTDOORS WWT LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk/wetlandGiant centres/london Duck H unt 30 March – 15 April Trail!

Dusty’s Giant Duck Hunt There’s a group of giant rubber ducks on the loose at London Wetland Centre this Easter and they need your help to find them. Use your detective skills to follow the Easter Giant Duck Hunt Trail and find out where they’re hiding – find them all and receive a yummy treat. Trail £1 per person including a chocolate prize (plus paid admission to the Centre). Plus, join the team for a

LANGUAGES ET PATATI PATATA Thomas’ Academy, Parsons Green SW7 07966 893674 caroline@etpatatipatata.com www.etpatatipatata.com Throughout Easter Holidays Fun French Day Camp Join the award winning French immersion programme and learn French without leaving London. Special Circus week with so many fun activities including French, music, art, patisserie, French coding, French music, sport… 30 hours per week of French immersion led by an experienced, native DBSFrench speaking primary teacher. It’s all 100% French fun!

WWT London Wetlands Dusty’s Giant Duck Hunt Age 4-13, 9am-3pm. Book now for the May half term camp.

DEVELOPING SKILLS SPARKS IGNITE Broomwood Hall School, Nightingale Lane, Balham, SW12 8NR 020 7101 9329 www.sparks-ignite.com/balham 9-13 April The Unbeatables: Movie Making Easter Workshop with Sparks Movie makers taking part will put together an ultimate superhero movie masterpiece, full of stunts and special effects. 9am 3pm, £265, siblings £225.25.

CHELSEA YOUNG WRITERS St John's Notting Hill Church, Lansdowne Crescent, W11 2NN 020 3773 5381 www.chelseayoungwriters.co.uk Easter holiday workshops 3-6 April, 9-13 April Create original stories with classes including: one-day workshops (812 years), 5-day intensive 'Steampunk adventure' course (812 years), 11+ English preparation course (Year 5) and ‘My First Story’ workshops for young (6-7 years) story makers. All workshops and courses are designed to inspire creative and critical thinking in a fun, smallgroup environment. 10.00–13.00.

INKHEAD

Learn French in a fun way with Et Patati Patata this Easter

16 Families South West • April 2018

Venues in Streatham, Brixton and Beckenham 07943 514408 www.inkhead.co.uk Dates in April Holiday courses Exciting and

inspiring courses for young avid (and not so avid) writers. Includes Crime Writing Course - 4-6 April, 10am-1pm, £135; What If? Fiction 8-11 Year Olds – 9-11 April, 10am-1pm, £135; Playwriting Course – 4-6 April, 10am-1pm, £135; GCSE Revision – 9-11 April, 10am-1pm, £135.

MUSIC DANCE DRAMA SIEGERIS SCHOOL OF DANCE Holy Trinity Primary School, Wimbledon SW19 8PW 077 3053 6499 www.siegerisdance.com 9 and 11 April Let’s Make a Ballet Create a ballet story, whether it be Sleeping Beauty or Coppelia. All children who love stories and dancing will enjoy going through the costume and prop box during the workshop. Age 4-6, 9.30am12.30pm, £28 per day or £50 for 2 days.

10 and 12 April Musical Madness Dance to a mixture of Contemporary, Jazz and Modern Dance and sing along to your favourite musical songs. Age 4-6, 9.30am-12.30pm, £28 per day or £50 for 2 days.

PERFORM DRAMA Venues across SW London 020 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk 4-11 April Mr Toad’s Wild Adventure Zoom off to the wonderful world

Cont. p. 18

ARTS & CRAFTS

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THE EVER-POPULAR AJ CRICKET COACHING ACADEMY’S SUMMER SESSIONS, ARE BACK! What sort of Summer do you envision for your child? An exciting time of discovery, enrichment and learning or a “lost Summer” spent cruising the couch while tethered to the latest high-tech gadget.

Prevent cabin fever (and save your sanity!) by enrolling on AJ Coaching Cricket Academy’s summer course. After a very successful first year in the NEC league, AJ Coaching Cricket Academy has entered four age groups this year. The Academy welcomes both boys and girls of all abilities.

These specialist sessions are for 5-14 year olds focusing upon the core areas of cricket; throwing, bowling, batting, fielding and catching in a fun and innovative way. This enables children to represent the club in league matches throughout the summer.

The basis of all coaching is encouragement in a welcoming and progressive atmosphere.

Dates: Every Saturday From Saturday 28th April to Saturday 14th July Times: 09:00 – 10:30am for 5-9 year olds and 09:00 – 11:00am for 10-14 year olds.

Cost: £190 Venue: Dundonald Recreation Ground, SW19 3QH For more information and to book on the Summer Academy, www.ajcoaching.co.uk or email Ali Jaffer on: coachcricket@ajcoaching.co.uk

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April 2018 • Families South West 17

EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 2

PLAYBALL •Battersea Park SW11 •Oak Lodge School, 101 Nightingale Lane SW12 8NA 07738 375317 www.playball-London.com 9-13 April Easter Holiday Camps Fun camps for 3-8 year olds, with treasure hunts, Playball games and skills, water balloons and a whole lot more. You may do as many days as you would like and you do not have to be a Playballer to join…

Dates vary depending on venue.

10am-1pm (lunch at around 11:30am) Parents may drop children off for the duration of camp, as there will be 7 coaches present

from. p. 16

Every child should have Playball skills of Wind in the Willows and join Ratty, Mole, Badger and the inimitable Mr Toad as they whizz down country roads on a colourful adventure packed with songs, dances and games. Whether they’re exploring the Wild Wood, outwitting the weasels and stoats or simply messing about on the river, they’re guaranteed to find excitement and laughter. Age 4-7, 10am-3pm, £200, 25% sibling discount.

FUNKY MONKEY KEYBOARD CLASSES Streatham, Clapham and Blackheath 01732 457100, mail@funkymonkey.info www.funkymonkey.info 9-13 April Funky Chicken Music Workshops These one-day workshops are a perfect opportunity to try out the keyboard and make music the Funky Monkey way. Learn how to write and play notes C-G and try some famous tunes, plus theory, keyboard games, quizzes and art activities based around music.

Age 4-8, 10am-2pm, £45/£35 with sibling discount.

TELFORD PARK TENNIS CLUB

One day workshops

Funky Monkey Keyboard

THE STRINGS CLUB Tooting Primary School, Franciscan Road, Tooting SW17 8HE 0121 296 9204 www.thestringsclub.org 3-6 and 9-13 April Easter Holiday Camp Each day with The Strings Club is wonderfully different, including exciting workshops alongside high quality small group instrumental sessions. Children aged 4-5 join in with the ukulele session whilst those in Year 1+ take part in one of the Sound Start guitar sessions.

Half days from £20, early bird and late club £5, 9.30am-4pm, half days 9.30am-12.30pm or 1-4pm, wrap around from 8am until 5.45pm.

Telford Park Lawn Tennis Club SW2 4NX 07736 068375 www.telfordparktennisclub.co.uk 3-6 and 9-13 April Easter Camps A fun 4 or 5 day coaching course for all levels and ages from 5-15 years. 11.30am4pm, £31 per day, £118 per week.

Intensive tennis coaching encourages real tennis learning, teamwork, and the development of key physical and technical skills.

SW SWIMMING SCHOOL •Emanuel School SW11 1HS •Burntwood School, Tooting SW17 0AQ 0208 767 2723, operations@swswimschool.co.uk www.swswimschool.co.uk

3-6 and 9-13 April Intensive Courses A 4- or 5-day intensive splash course where children swim every day with the same instructor. All lessons are 30 minutes each day, running between 9am-12pm Monday to Friday.

BATTERSEA SPORTS CENTRE Battersea Sports Centre, Hope Street, SW11 2DA 020 8871 8529 www.enablelc.org 3-6 and 9-13 April Easter Holiday Activities Take part in a range of sports for all ages and abilities. 10am-3pm, £55 for 5 days, £45 for 4 days, £13 per day, sibling discount available

ALL STAR TENNIS Leaders Gardens SW15 1LS King Georges Park SW18 2GJ Wandsworth Common SW18 3RT Tooting Common SW17 8JU 020 8871 4706 www.allstartennis.co.uk/holidaycamps To 13 April Tennis Camps These award winning camps are renowned for their fun and creative approach to learning. Packed with tennis drills, techniques, matches preparation, fun tournaments and team games.

“The kids all had a great time based on the amount of laughter you can hear which is important when they start their tennis journey,” said one parent. "My daughter is always so excited about doing the tennis camps during the school holidays and is always really happy and excited to tell me all about her day when I pick her up. All the staff are totally fantastic and really care about every single child.”

ALLSORTS DRAMA More House School, SW1 Notting Hill Prep School, W11 020 8968 3249 www.allsortsdrama.com Drama Workshops Popular and fun drama workshops for ages 4-6 and 7- 11, dates vary depending on venue. The perfect way to keep your child entertained and stimulated in a creative and structured way.

18 Families South West • April 2018

All Star Tennis camps are such fun!

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SPORT

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April 2018 • Families South West 19

from. p. 18

EASTER HOLIDAY LISTINGS PART 2 WIGMORE TENNIS CLUB SW16 1UJ 020 8144 3123 www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/WigmoreC oaching 3-6 and 9-13 April Holiday Camps Fun holiday courses for children aged 3-14 of all abilities. Each day and session is carefully structured to provide an introduction to all the strokes in tennis, offer technical and tactical advice, and give everyone the opportunity to develop their skills in a relaxed environment. 10am3pm, from £31 per day.

BARRACUDAS ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS

DAY CAMPS PAINSHILL Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE 01932 868113 www.painshill.co.uk 3-5 and 10-12 April Wild Easter Camp Have an egg-celent time in the woods this Easter. Make friends while exploring the forest and outdoors at Painshill. Each day is themed differently with activities ranging from bushcraft, den building, and woodland craft, an egg-citing treasure hunt. 9am– 4.30pm, £40 per day, age 8–13.

Barracudas

Venues across SW London Money b 0845 123 5299 ac guarante k www.barracudas.co.uk e for all ne Throughout Easter w bookers!

Holidays Fun Easter Holiday Camps School holiday fun for kids aged 4-14. For as little as £3.64 an hour, children have a choice of quality activities for every session, run by friendly, professional and enthusiastic staff in exceptional settings. Includes archery, crafts, fencing, football, drama and more. More ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted ratings than any other comparable provider.

BOOK NOW FOR YOUR SUMMER ACTIVITIES FREE TENNIS www.LTA.org.uk/GBTW Kickstart your summer and make the most of the great outdoors by joining a FREE Great British Tennis Weekend event near you.

From May to August Over a thousand parks, clubs and venues across the nation will be opening their doors to host FREE tennis sessions for the whole family. So there is sure to be one near you!

Whether you’re a complete beginner, dusting off your racket or practically a pro, there will be something to serve up a smile for all ages and abilities!

From Mini Tennis sessions to Cardio Tennis classes, there will be lots of fun activities for everyone to get stuck into—and with rackets and balls on hand at each event, it really couldn’t be made easier.

FREE RESIDENTIAL CAMPS FOR CHILDREN WITH HEALTH CHALLENGES For children with health challenges Various locations across the UK www.otw.org.uk April to October

20 Families South West • April 2018

The charity Over The Wall will provide Free recreational activity camps to children with health challenges and their families with the experience of a lifetime.

Children will have the opportunity to experience the magic of camp through activities such as kayaking, fishing, climbing, swimming, dancing, taking part in challenge courses, archery, arts & crafts, talent shows, discos and much more.

To volunteer calling Over The Wall on 02392 477110.

STORY-WRITING THROUGH ART AND GAMES https://paintwritenow.co.uk/ summer-holidays katherine.smith@gmail.com 07779 100 659 Creative Writing Courses in Wimbledon with Katherine Smith: artist, writer, Oxford graduate, passionate about helping children to emerge as confident artists and writers, for 6-11 year olds.

Heroes and Villains (w/c 13th August)

Under the Sea (w/c 20th August) Myths and Monsters (w/c 27th August) Want to inspire reluctant writers or encourage committed writers?

Sign up today!

Limited availability: maximum 6 students per class (students divided by year groups). Call or email for more details, including times and prices.

Paint Write Now encourages story-writing through art and games

ALL STARS CRICKET Easy online registration www.allstarscricket.co.uk From May 11th through to July Only launched in March 2017 the programme has had an incredible first year with over 1,500 All Stars Cricket centres delivering the programme to over 37,000 children. Boys and girls from 5 to 8 years old have fun, cricket activities and games with the basic movement skills to begin a lifelong love of physical activity.

The programme is delivered by trained volunteers who deliver game based activities that teach basic cricket skills like catching, throwing, hitting a moving ball and social skills like team work and communication.

Reasons to join: Eight one-hour sessions, held over eight weeks, emphasis on fun and being active, focus on developing your child's

movement skills, great first introduction to cricket, safe and fully accredited, valuable time with your kids – mums and dads are encouraged to take part too.

Learn cricket with All Stars Cricket

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April 2018 • Families South West 21

ALTERNATIVE EASTER GIFT GUIDE Compiled by Claire Winter

Bored of chocolate? Do you want to give your loved ones a special Easter gift this year that isn’t edible? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s our alternative guide for 2018.

Row of Speckled Eggs cushion, £26.99, welovecushions.com

Personalised Egg & Soldier Board, £25, hugosworkshop.co.uk

Personalised Bunny Dining Set, £39, ellieellie.co.uk

This range of fabulous cushions has a variety of stylish designs featuring eggs, bunnies, hares and cockerels.

They would make a lovely addition to any sofa.

This fun personalised Egg & Soldier board is made from upcycled oak kitchen worktops and is personalised with the name of your choice. It is a beautiful, unusual gift that will last for years.

This cute, personalised bunny plate set is a great way to add a touch of fun to any table this Easter. Each set includes a dinner plate, side plate and mug and every item includes a bunny silhouette with your chosen name.

Oskar & Ellen Doll's House with Bunnies £24.99, borngifted.com

Snazaroo, Mini Theme Pack, £2.99, snazaroo.com

Kooshi Backpack, £34.99, kooshi.co.uk

This gorgeous, handmade Swedish designed toy looks lovely and is great fun to play with too. It’s a cloth house that has a cute bunny family inside. It also has a carry handle so it’s easy to transport. Suitable for children aged three and above.

Snazaroo has launched these pocketfriendly face paint packs. They’re just £2.99 per pack, with instructions and face paints included. They have ten designs to choose from including an Easter bunny and chick. It’s a really fun, budget friendly present for boys and girls.

We love this Kooshi Bunny backpack.

It was designed by a mum who was fed up using valuable space in her kids’ bags transporting things for them to nap on during journeys. The pillow can be detached and used on a plane, car or bus, so your child can sleep in peace. The perfect bag to take on holiday!

Greatest Egg Hunt Ever Jumper, £23, ellieellie.co.uk Perfect to wear on an Easter hunt and an ideal gift for the little adventurers and the all- round mini-sleuths in your life. Made from a cotton blend these unisex sweatshirts have a soft feel with a fleecy lining and are designed for a ‘relaxed’ fit. Available in fuchsia and pastel blue.

22 Families South West • April 2018

Colour-In Easter Top, £14, selfieclothing.co.uk This really cool company does a range of colour-in clothes. You can get a colour-in Easter top, in different sizes for children aged two to ten. Each top is printed with a design ready for your child to colour in with Selfie pens to make it their own. Once they have been coloured in and ironed, the designs will stay permanently, so your child has a unique piece of clothing they can keep. The company offersa huge variety of designs, including capes and PJs too!

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April 2018 • Families South West 23

BABY FEATURE

£10 OFF A FIRST TREATMENT FOR BABY, MUM OR BOTH WITH THIS MAGAZINE

Baby Swimming Give your baby the best start The Baby Swimming Company will give your baby the best introduction to swimming in their purpose-built baby swimming pools. Their pools in Wandsworth and Wimbledon are designed and built especially for baby swimming with clean showers, baby changing rooms and warm filtered water.

Why choose them: • Health and Safety approved centres • Small classes (6 maximum) • Free catch up classes • Free cover pants and first waterproof nappy on enrolment • Highly qualified and experienced teachers Free Trial Classes Go and have a class on them and see if your new baby is a natural swimmer. They have trial classes every week.

They are now taking bookings for their next 7week term starting on the 9th of April. Give them a call on 020 8417 1231 to book your place or go to www.thebabyswimmingcompany.co.uk

All your Childcare Solutions under one roof...

With almost 20 years’ experience in child-care recruitment, the company is run by an ex-maternity nurse/nanny and mother of 3 (including twins).

The whole team are similarly experienced—all working mummies with a true understanding of the needs of new mothers and families with young children.

The Maternity Nurse Company can guide and advise you in selecting the most appropriate help following the birth of your baby, making those early days of parenthood a smooth and blissful transition.

The Elite Nanny Company can offer continuity in the transition to long-term child-care solutions. Both their Maternity Nurses and Nannies are of the highest calibre.

“There are many childcare agencies in the UK but we believe ours stands out from the rest.” says Ruth Reckitt, Director. “We offer a personal approach and we look forward to helping you!” www.maternitynurse.co.uk / www.elitenannycompany.co.uk admin@maternitynurse.co.uk / admin@elitenannycompany.co.uk

24 Families South West • April 2018

Cranial Osteopathic treatment of babies is very gentle and supportive.

Osteopathy is about helping the body function well through supporting good anatomical function, and cranial technique is extremely gentle.

The post partum period is a moment where mum can be adjusting as much as her baby and both may need some careful attention as they settle into this new phase of life. Julia is always pleased to meet partners too; this is an important moment for the family unit and lays the foundations for the coming months and years.

“Julia was quick to win my trust and I was very much comforted and reassured by the confident and careful way that she treated my son."

Julia has extensive paediatric osteopathy experience, having trained at the Osteopathic Centre for Children and worked there for a total of eight years. She has good connections with local midwives, doulas and breastfeeding counsellors and other allied professionals via the Pure Pregnancy network.

Joint mother and baby appointments available, book today on 020 7993 8116.

Julia Finlay B.Ost, M.Sc , Clapham Family Osteopath, www.claphamfamilyosteopath.co.uk

Post-Natal Nutrition and Fitness Training Lindsay Holden runs health and fitness company Pure Lifestyles and specialises in post-natal rehabilitation.

“The pressure on mums to get back to their pre-baby weight can be enormous and that has to stop” she says. Lindsay creates progressive exercise programs and realistic and easy to follow nutrition plans for mums to help them start to feel like themselves again without the pressure.

Lindsay is based in Clapham and sees clients 1-1, in groups or coaches via email and calls through distance coaching methods. Babies are always welcome along to the sessions. Lindsay also runs a mum and baby bootcamp on Clapham Common every Wednesday at 11am—the first session is free!

Head to www.purelifestyles.co.uk to find out more about everything Pure Lifestyles has to offer.

Contact Lindsay via email lindsay@purelifestyles.co.uk or phone 07845 273 746.

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BABY FEATURE DED

MEN

M ECO

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Mindful Parenting made simple Learn how to give your child the best emotional start in life at this great Foundations in Parenting one-day workshop. It’s as easy as ABC...

Do you know what to do if your baby is poorly?

Would you know what to do if your baby choked or stopped breathing?

Do you feel confident looking after your little ones when they're unwell?

Doctor Bear is a team of four paediatrician mummies who understand those middle of the night panics with an unwell baby. They have used their collective, extensive experience to create fun and highly informative courses.

• Awareness: Find out who you are and what sort of parent you hope to be.

• Behaviour: Identify your own negative behaviours so you don’t pass them on to your child.

• Compassion: Learn skills for self-compassion, as well as tips on supporting your child’s emotional needs.

Courses cover: 1. ‘Baby Bears’ – aimed at parents of babies under 6 months covering all the essential baby questions – immunisations, weaning, feeding problems, child development.

The Hoffman Institute has been teaching personal development for over 50 years.

2. Accidents, injuries and First Aid

“We believe that the sturdiest foundation in taking care of others comes from taking care of yourself. Our workshop will boost self-knowledge, increase confidence and offer a selection of practical Hoffman tools to apply to your parenting.”

3. Common childhood illnesses

Workshop date: Saturday 12 May Venue: The Welsh Chapel, Beauchamp Rd, Clapham, SW11 1PQ Cost: £65 per person/£120 for two people Suitable for: Parents or carers of children aged 0-12, childminders, KS1 teachers, parents-to-be, grandparents.

They also offer bespoke courses to run in your home where you can choose from their bank of topics and tailor-make a course most relevant to your needs. “We are passionate about empowering caregivers with up to date knowledge about child healthcare. Please see our 5* reviews on Facebook and for further course information and our blog see our webpage.“ 10% off COURSES WHEN QUOTING FSW

www.doctorbear.co.uk www.hoffmaninstitute.co.uk/parenting

Follow their blog on Instagram: doctorbears

Swimwear with maximum sun safety Platypus Australia, the global UV swimwear brand is excited to announce the launch of its 2018 UV Swimwear and Beachwear Collection.

Innovative and reflective of current trends, the new range boasts exclusive prints, colour blocking and neon accents in the latest silhouettes. The collection is Platypus Australia’s most comprehensive and directional to date whilst remaining true to the brand’s key mission: to produce eco-friendly, high performance swimwear that provides maximum sun safety for babies and children.

A selection of Baby styles are now available at Alex and Alexa and online at House of Fraser with the entire Collection available online at www.platypusaustralia.com

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Naturalmat are bringing a touch of the Devon countryside to nurseries and kids bedrooms with their handmade natural fibre mattresses. Made by hand in Devon using the finest natural and organic materials, these award-winning mattresses are naturally breathable and self-ventilating. This helps your child regulate their body temperature and sleep comfortably. Their most popular baby mattress, the Coco Mat was launched in 2001 and has won numerous accolades including a 2017 Mother & Baby award for Best Natural Product.

To complement the mattresses, Naturalmat have a range of GOTS certified organic bedding and organic Westcountry lambswool duvets and pillows. You can see these beautiful products at the Naturalmat Baby Boutique at 99 Talbot Road, W11 2AT in the heart of Notting Hill.

The shop also displays contemporary nursery and kids furniture from brands including Leander, Stokke and Oeuf plus bedtime accessories and gifts from Aden + Anais, Merino Kids and Naturalmats’ own cosy lambskin collection.

You can save 10% on Naturalmat baby and children’s mattresses and bedding with code FAMILIES valid until 31.05.18 in store or online. www.naturalmat.co.uk

April 2018 • Families South West 25

BABY FEATURE

A hidden gem of a Forest School in the heart of Brixton

Madagascar Childcare is a brand-new setting, registered to care for children from birth to 5 years. They also offer wrap around care—breakfast and afterschool club, serving schools within a 1 mile radius. They are situated right next to woodlands, which offers children the opportunity to engage in Forest play.

There is a tennis court and outside space 2 minutes away, which give children plenty of opportunities to do sporting activities.

Corry Drive Chestnut Nursery Forest School is located right in the heart of Brixton with an amazing outdoor space.

The nursery is set in its own beautiful grounds providing a unique and secure outside area away from it all. The stunning garden offers areas for learning, fun and adventure. They are able to offer space to run around, explore nature, become involved in the 'growing' area or simply sit quietly in the shaded area.

Their bright, spacious and fully resourced rooms allow the children including babies to free flow between the indoors and the outdoor environment.

Core Curriculum activities include Exploring Science with Little Scientists, experiencing the natural world with Little Explorers, cooking and art.

The ‘happy nursery’!

Why don’t you go and have a look at this unique Nursery School?

Extracurricular activities include Russian and Portuguese lessons, dance and multisports. Staff are fully qualified with all the relevant training.

Visitors parking at the front of the nursery school.

1 Corry Drive, Brixton SW9 8QS 020 7274 4421 www.chestnut-nursery.co.uk

62 Covington Way, Norbury SW16 3SQ. 020 8935 5154 www.madagascardaynursery.com

Teach your baby to swim with Water Babies Babies and toddlers just love being in warm water and it’s really good for them, too. For many parents, their child’s first swimming lessons are among their most precious memories: memories you capture beautifully with spectacular photos you'll treasure forever. Swimming is also the perfect exercise for little ones, since water allows muscles to move freely, supported by its buoyancy.

Lo Winchurch of Water Babies South West London told Families South West: “We’ve got the best baby swimming teachers in the world: only Water Babies teachers can obtain a national diploma in baby swimming. Trained to tune in very carefully to the needs of both you and your baby, they work hard to ensure you both feel safe and happy.

One of our core philosophies is that we’re teaching you to teach your baby to swim, so we’ll always explain why we’re doing something, as well as carefully demonstrate exactly what to do. Together, we’ll teach your child to feel safe and confident both above and below the water. And to help chart your little one’s swimming adventures you’ll receive a special keepsake book with exclusive stickers and badges to collect along the way.”

Water Babies runs multi-award baby swimming classes from birth across Central and South West London.

To find out more call 020 7585 1510, email readygo@waterbabies.co.uk or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk

26 Families South West • April 2018

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The only UK charity providing specialist paediatric osteopathy on a donate-what-youcan basis

GENTLE PAEDIATRIC OSTEOPATHY Choosing the right healthcare for your child can feel challenging.

If you’re after a gentle, non-pharmaceutical approach then try the Osteopathic Centre for Children (OCC). Their highly-trained osteopaths will give you the time you need to discuss your concerns, and after observing your child, will use effective, non-invasive physical techniques to help promote, maintain and restore health and wellbeing.

They specialise in treating children from birth to 18 years presenting with a whole range of conditions, as well as women in the perinatal period, and will always work alongside traditional medicine where appropriate.

OCC parent, Georgia said, ‘What I like about the consultants at the OCC is that they don’t give me a hard time if we do decide to go down the [NHS drug-treatment] route but support my family in what we do next. Having seen the effect of the osteopathic treatment on my family, the OCC will always be my first port of call for my children’s health. We think it is absolutely brilliant.’

Book an appointment today on 020 8875 5290 www.occ.uk.com Registered charity number 1003934

BABY FEATURE

New Health Visitor Service in Wandsworth Despite huge cuts in Government funding, Richmond and Wandsworth councils have recently successfully launched a new Health Visitor Service so they can better support local parents. The service will stretch across both boroughs and will help all pregnant women, parents and carers with children aged up to five. The service will also provide support and advice in order to promote good health, to detect issues early, prevent accidents and ensure immunisation. A great idea, it seems.

Services offered by the new Health Visitor Service will include a named health visitor for all families with children aged 0-5, plus weight and wellbeing clinics, parenting support, breastfeeding clinics and support groups, baby and child developmental assessments and antenatal and postnatal groups. These services will all be supported by home visits. On top of this, a dedicated ‘Health Matters’ website will be set up where families can post questions and receive answers within 2 working days.

“The health and wellbeing of our families is vital,” said Cllr Paul Ellis, Wandsworth's cabinet member for adult care and health, “and this new integrated service means we can offer the best possible support for our children, parents and carers.”

“As a parent, I know how vital the health visitor service is—providing family services from pre-birth, right through to school,” added Cllr Mark Boyle, Richmond Council cabinet member for public health. “Despite huge reductions in Government funding, particularly for public health grants, we

have been able to protect this valued and much needed provision. This new service will provide a number of different ways in which people can contact their health visitor and a single point of access for all queries.”

Janet Lewis, divisional director of children’s services at CLCH said: “We’re delighted to be working alongside Richmond and Wandsworth councils to support families across both boroughs through this vital service.”

Residents can access the service via online digital hub https://healthmatters.clch.nhs.uk/

Group-singing reduces symptoms of Post-Natal Depression Ruth Routledge founded Pram Chorus, a parent’s choir where you can bring babies/toddlers, six years ago. She wasn’t at all surprised to find that what she has been hearing anecdotally from her members has now been demonstrated in new research published in the British Journal of Psychiatry. Ruth, a choir-director, founded Pram Chorus after the birth of her daughter, whilst struggling herself with issues of depression, loneliness and the identity crisis which often accompanies the experience of becoming a parent. As well as having an amazingly positive effect for her, she is often told by members how much the choirs improve their mental health, with it being described as “my saviour” and “the one activity which kept me going through the week”. So new research demonstrating this is great news.

For the research project, women experiencing PND were split into three groups. One did group-singing, the other did creative play and the third had their usual treatment of talking therapies, medication and mindfulness.

The results were remarkable, with the women in the singing group experiencing a far quicker reduction in their symptoms.

The significance of this cannot be understated. Many women wait months for treatment on the NHS, during which their symptoms can worsen, having a negative impact on their baby, and compounding feelings of guilt and shame in the mother. Finding a quick, effective, drug-free treatment (particularly important for breastfeeding mothers) is wonderful news for women and their families.

Pram Chorus on prescription anyone?

So what now? Are doctors prescribing “choir-therapy”? Ruth from Pram Chorus would love to see this happening, but in the meantime, encourages anyone suffering from PND or who is feeling lonely, isolated or down, to join one of her singing-groups in South London (Streatham, Brixton, Balham and Tooting). They are friendly, inclusive, non-auditioned groups who sing a wide variety of songs. Franchises are also available for people to set up their own Pram Chorus group closer to home. It can feel scary, but it is worth trying a choir to sing away the baby-blues! www.pramchorus.com ruth@pramchorus.com

The Research: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/the-british-journal-of-psychiatry/article/effect-of-singing-interventions-on-symptoms-of-postnatal-depression-threearm-randomised-controlledtrial/534122E539704BAEAC0824F9FCACC5A8

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DIARY DATES CHELSEA PHYSIC GARDEN 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW3 4HS www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 6 April Wiggly Wild Show Discover the wonderful world of mini-beasts, bugs, reptiles and creepy crawlies with 'The Wiggly Wild Show'. See and hold a pygmy hedgehog, giant snails, millipedes and much more!

Age 3-7, 10.30am and 1pm.

10 April Storm in a Teacup Discover the bitter/sweet stories of our favourite brew, all served with Studio Cultivate’s special blend of dynamic story-telling, dramatic adventure and brilliant botany.

Age 5–12, 10.30am-3pm.

12 April Lotions and Potions Can a food be a medicine? Can a poison be a medicine? Explore a brief history of medicine and find out about the amazing power of plants to heal and soothe, plus make your own natural and low-cost remedies to tackle spring ailments and plant a mini medicinal garden. Age 8+, 10.30am-2.30pm.

SOMERSET HOUSE Strand WC2R 1LA 020 7845 4600 www.somersethouse.org.uk 6-8 April Now Play This The three-day games festival returns as part of the citywide London Games Festival, with a host of hands-on activities for all ages. Explore international experimental game design from the 1990s to the present day, focussing on identity and place. From £6.50.

20 April – 6 May 2018 Sony World Photography Awards Exhibition Featuring inspirational works by more than 600 artists, showcasing winning and shortlisted works from the 2018 Sony World Photography Awards, the world’s most diverse photography competition.

IF YOU ONLY DO ONE THING THIS MONTH GO AND SEE … VENOM: KILLER AND CURE Natural History Museum Cromwell Road SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk To 13 May Enter the realm of venomous creatures in this eyeopening exhibition - explore the fear and everlasting fascination that venom evokes as you get up close to snakes, spiders and scorpions, plus 250 other startling specimens that are on display together for the first time. Find out how across cultures and time, venom has transformed from a deadly weapon to a cure that is used in medicine today to save lives, and then discover how vipers bring down prey with blood-curdling venom, explore how cone snail venom has yielded a drug that can treat chronic pain, and why bee venom is used as an ingredient of facial cream. See the world’s deadliest ants, which are more dangerous than a cobra. Yikes! From £5.

ROBOTICS WORKSHOP

FIRST AID FOR LIFE

BOCKETTS FARM

Imperial College, Exhibition Road SW7 2AZ www.inspiredmindstutors.com/works hops 7 April and 5 May Take robots apart to learn how they work Then build your own!

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

11am-1pm and 2-4pm.

74 Ramsden Road, Balham SW12 8QZ www.firstaidforlife.org.uk 14, 18, 21 and 27 April and 2 May Paediatric 6 Hour First Aid Course.

From £125.

Young Street, Fetcham KT22 9BS 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk To 15 April Easter Eggstravaganza Enjoy a great family day out with over 300 gorgeous baby lambs due, newborn chicks and cuddly bunnies. Plus goat milking, tractor rides, pony rides and pig racing, and complete the Easter Trail and take home a chocolate treat.

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

LONDON FIRST AID TRAINING Venues in Battersea SW11 www.firstaidtraininglondon.co.uk 14 April Paediatric First Aid Course Includes resuscitation procedures, drowning, chocking, shock, spinal injury, burns and scalds. From £80.

FOSTERING INFORMATION EVENT Town Hall, Wandsworth High Street SW18 2PU 020 8871 6666 www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fostering Go and see the newly born animals at Bocketts farm

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KEW GARDENS Kew, Surrey www.kew.org To 15 April A Big Day Out with Peter Rabbit Join Peter Rabbit and all his furry friends on a botanical bunny adventure this Easter.

Visitors can expect an exciting activity-packed day out with games, crafts and storytelling inspired by Beatrix Potter’s iconic tales. Follow a Peter Rabbit trail to find activity pop-ups, then take a trip to Mr McGregor’s potting shed and plant your very own seeds to take home and nurture.

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DIARY DATES 19 April and 17 May Find out more about the possibility of fostering in Wandsworth at these informative events. 10am-12pm, 24pm and 6-8pm on both dates.

FULHAM PALACE Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org 21 April Little Green Fingers This handson gardening workshop is for children and their adults to explore how vegetables and flowers grow, with the opportunity to sow, plant, and care for produce and flowers in an exclusive Little Green Fingers bed in the Walled Garden. 10.30am12pm, £10 per child, booking essential, age 3+.

MUM2MUM MARKET Ricards Lodge High School www.mum2mummarket.co.uk 21 April and 19 May Come along and buy all kinds of nearly new toys, clothes, books, strollers, car seats, feeding accessories, baby equipment and so much more. Or if you fancy a quick clear out, why not book a stall?

Admission £2 on the door, children free. Visit the Mum2mum Market website to get 2 for 1 admission.

2-4pm.

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

WWT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT 0208 409 4405 www.wwt.org.uk 28 April Dawn Chorus A unique opportunity to enjoy this wonderful wildlife reserve before daybreak.

Enjoy listening to the birds sing as the sun rises over the reed beds, lakes and ponds. 5am, £20, booking essential and wrap up warm!

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

For mini artists in the making.

10am, age 1-4.

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

10am, age 5-8.

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

KIDS CLUB FILM Clapham Picturehouse, 76 Venn Street SW4 0AT www.picturehouses.com/cinema/Clap ham_Picturehouse

Saturdays in April Movies exclusively for children and their parents and carers. Includes My Little Pony and Shaun the Sheep.

DROP-IN CHOCOLATE MAKING The Chocolate Museum, 187 Ferndale Road SW9 8BA www.thechocolatemuseum.co.uk Saturdays and Sundays in April Creative and fun workshop Age 5+, 11.30am-5pm, from £9.50.

THE MOONWALK LONDON 2018 www.walkthewalk.org 12 May Sign up now for a fun-filled night not to be missed! Join thousands of walkers at Walk the Walk’s iconic challenge, walking through the streets of London at Midnight wearing brightly decorated bras.

This year they are heading out to the Wild West, grab your partner and dosey doe whilst raising money and awareness for breast cancer.

Sign up now for the Half Moon (13.1 + 2 miles) or Full Moon (26.2 miles), age 13+, £49.50.

EASTER EGG HUNTS BATTERSEA PARK CHILDREN’S ZOO

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM

Battersea Park SW11 4NJ www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk To 2 April Easter Holiday Fun With Easter Egg Search, Easter Bunny Day, Chicken and Egg Days, Bumblebees and Frogs and Hedgehog Days. Usual entrance fees apply.

Threadneedle Street EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum/i nside-the-museum To 13 April Easter Eggstravaganza Explore the galleries, displays and corridors – with added Easter fun! Get the most out of your visit by following the Easter trail. Answer questions, find three mischievous chicks and a golden egg hidden in the Museum to claim your own chocolate egg.

HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace To 14 April Lindt Gold Bunny Easter Hunt Hiding in the palace and gardens will be the Lindt Gold Bunny, with new stories to be discovered with every bunny found, before the chance to claim a delicious chocolate prize.

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BOCKETTS FARM Young Street, Fetcham KT22 9BS 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk To 15 April Easter Eggstravaganza Complete the Easter Trail and take home a chocolate treat.

KEW GARDENS Kew, Surrey www.kew.org To 15 April A Big Day Out with Peter Rabbit Join Peter Rabbit and all his furry friends in an Easter egg hunt extraordinaire!

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

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

Maidstone ME17 1PL www.leeds-castle.com To 15 April Easter Quest Seek out the clues that are hidden around the Castle grounds this Easter on a fun quest for children of all ages. Answer all of the questions and receive a chocolate treat as a fun reward.

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

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BABIES AND TODDLERS THE GRAVENEY AND MEADOW

100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Every Sunday in April A World of Stories Enjoy stories from some of the best storytellers in London. Their tales bring the Museum’s varied collections to life and will whisk you away to faraway places and different times. Suitable for families with children aged 5+, FREE 2-2.45pm and 3.15-4pm.

Every Tuesday and Wednesday in April Busy Bees Lively sessions for under-5s. Activities include storytelling, art and craft and outdoor play. FREE

40 Mitcham Road SW17 9NA www.graveneyandmeadow.com Wednesdays in April Kids’ and toddlers’ arts and craft classes.

See website for details.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Last Wednesday of every month Screaming With Laughter London’s original afternoon comedy club, designed for parents with babies under 1 year. See the best acts from TV and the comedy circuit without having to book a babysitter. Buy tickets at www.wegottickets.com/Screaming WithLaughter

Sing with your child with Pram Chorus

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

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

SINGING MAMAS CHOIR South London Liberal Synagogue, Streatham / The Half Moon (Workshop Room), Herne Hill www.singingmamaschoir.com Tuesdays and Wednesdays in April, depending on venue A Community of Choirs for Women, with or without children Sing world songs, folk songs, gospel and more. A warm welcome awaits all singing abilities.

Contact: southlondonsingingmamas@gmail.c om, tel 07947 609780.

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

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

10am and 11.30am, £5.

DO-RE-MI BABIES CONCERTS Barnes, Chelsea, Fulham, Wandsworth www.doremibabies.co.uk Dates throughout April Inspirational and fun classical concerts Babies and toddlers are

welcome to crawl, dance, sing, cry, nappy change and more, so you can relax and enjoy some wonderful music. £10 per adult, children free, tickets online or on the door. Dates vary depending on venue.

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

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

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

11am, £5.

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HORNIMAN MUSEUM AND GARDENS

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DRAMA BATTERSEA ARTS CENTRE Lavender Hill SW11 5TN www.bac.org.uk 3-6 April Homegrown Festival A week of bold ideas, live music and performance from young voices, tackling everything from racial tensions to the addictive nature of Tesco value meals. See a show from emerging and UK theatre companies, watch a gig from up and coming unsigned artists and get inspired.

his claws on Mowgli? Will King Louie deceive the young boy into telling him how to make fire? Will Baloo and Bagheera be the heroes?

Monkey Business at the Puppet Theatre Barge

CAMBRIDGE THEATRE Seven Dials, 32-34 Earlham Street WC2H 9HU www.uk.matildathemusical.com Throughout April Matilda The Musical Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, Matilda revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dares to change her destiny.

COLOUR HOUSE THEATRE Watermill Way SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Saturdays and Sundays to 8 April. 2pm and 4 pm Pinocchio Craftsman Geppetto has made an incredible little wooden puppet, Pinocchio, however one magical night his creation transforms into a real boy! Pinocchio’s adventure has just begun… from £10.

Colour House Theatre The Jungle Book

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH One Lyric Square W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 13-14 April A Midsummer Night’s Dream The Lyric and Filter’s riotous reinterpretation of one of Shakespeare’s best loved plays returns to the Lyric for two performances only. Featuring original live music, this classic tale of young lovers and warring fairies is given a unique and irreverent twist.

From £10, age 14+.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre 9-14 April Sunset Boulevard One of the alltime great musicals, Sunset Boulevard is a compelling story of romance and obsession, based on Billy Wilder’s legendary film, with Don Black and Christopher Hampton's wonderful book and lyrics.

OMNIBUS THEATRE

Colour House Theatre Pinocchio Saturdays and Sundays 21 April to 24 June. 2pm and 4pm The Jungle Book Join Mowgli on his amazing adventure as he meets all the friendly, dangerous and unusual characters that make this story so iconic. Will Shere Khan get

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1 Clapham Common Northside SW4 0QW www.omnibus-clapham.org 23 April Kaleidoscope Blink. Blink again.

What do you see? Inspired by research into how a baby’s sense of sight develops and how they instinctively begin to categorise colour, watch as your baby enters the multicoloured world of Kaleidoscope. A show for babies 6– 18 months and their parents, 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm, from £7.

PEACOCK THEATRE

RICHMOND THEATRE

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

The Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ www.atgtickets.com/venues/richmon d-theatre 22 April Motown’s Greatest Hits: How Sweet It Is This stunning 100% live show combines first class music together with slick choreography, and an amazing band. Truly outstanding, the best MOTOWN experience you will ever have!

POLKA THEATRE

SADLER’S WELLS

240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com To 15 April Much Ado About Puffin Traverse stormy seas and reckless tides in this tale about a man all alone, a friendly puffin, and a whole lot of fuss over nothing. Using puppetry, beautiful music and good old-fashioned storytelling, this delightful show is about old habits, new friendships, and stepping out into the unknown.

Rosebery Avenue EC1R www.sadlerswells.com 12-21 April English National Ballet – Voices of America A programme of works packed with the audacious attitude of American-style neoclassical ballet, featuring two works by one of dance’s leading figures, William Forsythe.

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

To 13 May Monkey Business Check out some exciting and hilarious tricks and turns performed by monkey marionettes to music, with all the skill of the circus.

The Birdman at Puppet Theatre Barge

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MUSEUMS, GALLERIES & DAYS OUT East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace

Free Easter fun at the Geffrye Museum

CHARLES DICKENS MUSEUM 48 Doughty Street WC1N 2LX www.dickensmuseum.com Last Sunday of every month Highlighting the Collection Drop-in object handling sessions throughout the historic interior of 48 Doughty Street. Discover a unique set of Dickensian curiosities from a cheque signed by Dickens, to a beautiful dolls house, an engraved snuff box and even a collection of original props from The Invisible Woman.

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

13 April Ink Stamped Poems In this creative writing workshop, imagine animals featured in The Lost Words. Make rubber letter stamps then write your own acrostic

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poem using stamped, printed and written words and pictures.

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

GEFFRYE MUSEUM OF THE HOME 136 Kingsland Road E2 8EA 020 749 6026 www.geffrye-museum.org.uk 4-6 April Transformation!

Free Easter fun for families explore how nature transforms gardens at springtime and how the Geffrye will be changing over the next two years in these free creative workshops and drop-in activities for 2-16 year olds.

10.30am-4pm.

Throughout April A great The Magic day out !

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

From 5 May Tudor Kitchens This May sees a complete re-imagining of the famous Tudor kitchens, transporting visitors back to a time when they were the beating heart of life at Hampton Court Palace.

New displays will feature interactive technology and sensory experiences, so for the first time ever visitors will be able to see, smell and touch their way through the process of preparing a meal fit for a king.

HORNIMAN MUSEUM AND GARDENS 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk A jewe Throughout April a museul of m Colour: The for children Rainbow Revealed !

Be dazzled by prisms showing how colours are made, peer through a giant human eyeball to find out how we see colour, discover how animals use colour to attract and hide, and look into how different colours mean different things across the planet.

FREE Throughout April Horniman Butterfly House Get up close with hundreds of beautiful butterflies in a tropical indoor garden. The habitat is the perfect place to experience freeflying butterflies and discover amazing facts about the life-cycle and behaviour of these creatures.

From £6.

11 April Big Wednesday: Year of the Reef Take part in activities including art and storytelling, inspired by the International Year of the Reef and the sea.

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AC 10.30am-3.30pm, FREE TIV ITI 13 April ES Family Bat Walk Learn more about bats in this fun family session. Create some batinspired art and craft before going into the Gardens to search for bats using real detectors. Aged 8+. 79pm, from £3.

28 April Welly Walk on the Nature Trail: Signs of Spring Join on the Horniman Nature Trail to explore the animals, insects and plants that thrive there in spring.

Have a go at sweep-netting, treebeating and identifying what you discover. Age 5+, from £3, 1.453.30pm.

KENSINGTON PALACE W8 4PX hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace To 6 April Easter family activities Meet Queen Mary II at Kensington Palace, with drop-in sessions and family activities exploring her story, then create paper Chinese vases to add to her precious collection.

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

MUSEUM OF LONDON EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sundays in April Museum Explored Explore the galleries through fun, hands-on activities. 11am and 2pm.

Plus, join a fun and engaging tour of the museum’s galleries, especially for families. Age 5+, 2-2.30pm.

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

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk

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HAMPTON COURT PALACE

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

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Throughout April Special Forces: In the Shadows Discover the elite training and extreme skills needed to make the cut as this exhibition explores the operations our Special Forces have undertaken around the world over the past 70 years. A wonderful new exhibition at this completely refurbished museum, perfect for all ages and especially for families with curious youngsters. From £4.

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

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

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

To 28 May Wildlife Photographer of the Year Showcasing the world’s very best nature photography, highlighting the incredible range of life on Earth. The most prestigious photographic competition of its kind. From £7.50.

Throughout April Sensational Butterflies Escape to the Museum’s tropical butterfly house and watch the crawling caterpillar transform into the beautiful butterfly. This immersive exhibition is filled with life, colour and beauty and features

species found in the tropical forests of Central and South America, Africa and Asia. From £5.85.

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

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

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

Ink Stamped Poems at the Foundling Museum

34 Families South West • April 2018

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WHAT’S ON

Winnie the Pooh Photograph of A. A. Milne and Christopher Robin, ca. 1925-1926 From 6 May Arrest and Last Days of Anne Boleyn Follow the dramatic story of Anne Boleyn, second wife of King Henry VIII, through her arrest, imprisonment, trial and execution at the Tower. From hope to hopelessness, watch Anne’s journey unfold in this live performance which will be staged twice per day.

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

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

2-13 April Easter Activities Be inspired by the colours and shapes of flowers and plants, explore different

natural materials for crafts and enjoy folk stories from Nordic countries. 11am-4pm. Includes Clayworld Workshop and Animated Clay Creatures Workshop.

7 and 14 April Nordic Folk Stories Join storyteller Nell Phoenix in the special story hut in the Century of the Child exhibition for some Nordic Folk fun. Drop-in, all ages, 2pm and 3pm.

21 April St George’s Day Event A day of English merriment to celebrate St George. Enjoy live song and dance traditions, storytelling, games, arts and craft activities. 11.30am4.30pm.

V&A MUSEUM Cromwell Road, Knightsbridge SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk To 8 April Winnie-the-Pooh: Exploring A Classic This exhibition reveals the story behind the creative partnership of A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepard and the phenomenal success and enduring popularity of Winnie-the-Pooh. Designed for both children and adults, visitors will be led on a multi-sensory journey to rediscover these classic books, such as discovering language as a child and inspiring creativity with drawing.

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WHAT’S ON

ART ACTIVITIES V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk 3-5 and 10-12 April Nature: Pattern Print Workshop Get inspiration from Nordic design classics like Marimekko, and work with artist Helen Rousseau to design your own block print pattern. £7 per child, age 4+, 10.40am, 12.30pm and 2.10pm.

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

10am-12pm, age 5-11, £13.50.

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

HORNIMAN MUSEUM AND GARDENS 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk

7, 14, 21 and 28 April.

Art Makers Have fun with different art techniques to create something fabulous to take home inspired by the Horniman’s collections or seasonal celebrations. Different themes each week. 1.30pm & 2.45pm, £3, age 3+.

V&A MUSEUM Cromwell Road SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk/families Throughout April Family Activities Pick up a family trail from the Information Desk and explore the museum through puzzles, drawing and observation.

There are also hundreds of exciting hands-on exhibits containing plenty to touch and try out, plus regular activities and workshops for ages 7-12. FREE

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

FREE

THE WALLACE COLLECTION Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org

Horniman Museum and Gardens Art Makers First Sunday of the month The Little Draw Meet artist Grace Holliday and use specialist drawing, handling and surface design techniques to respond to the stimulating forms and colour palettes. All ages, 1.30pm–4.30pm,

FREE

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

1.30-4.40pm.

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

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

FREE

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

2-3.45pm.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA 020 8983 5200 www.vam.ac.uk/moc 3, 5, 6, 10, 11 and 12 April Clayworld Workshop Create an imaginary miniature clay world with the help of artist Sarah Dhanjal. £5 per child, age 4+, 11am. Also Animated Clay Creatures Workshop - What if the creatures in the display Dream On... came to life? Imagine surreal worlds and create a stop frame animation, £10 per child, age 8+, 2pm.

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

April 2018 • Families South West 35