Families SW London Jan-Feb 2019

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IN THIS ISSUE

Nursery Special, Half term activities, Reiki, Things to do with Babies, Museums and Events

Baby friendly activities and holidays...

Issue 283 January/February 2019

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IN THIS ISSUE 6-7 Local news 8 Families Top Five activities this month 9

New Year New You Take part in Wear A Hat Day and help raise vital funds for research into brain tumours.

10 Six of the best things to do while you’re on Maternity Leave

11-17

eDuCaTioN • Open days • School news • Why Girls should start independent education at 4

18-29 NurSerY • Nursery Selection: The Start on the Education Map • Improving the Number Foundations of Pre-Schoolers • Curiosity is key to early childhood success • Local nursery news

contents

30 Learn to support your child on an emotional and spiritual level

32-34 ClubS & ClaSSeS • Get Active! – Your New Year’s resolution for the whole family • Your Clubs & Classes news

41-43 FebruarY HalF Term aCTiviTieS

January/February 2019 Issue 283 www.muddypuddles.com

From sport to art, days out, music, drama etc

44-47

Travel Baby friendly holidays, glamping with little ones and fabulous holiday ideas

48-54 wHaT’S oN • Diary dates • Drama • Museums and galleries • Art Activities • Babies and toddlers

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 editorial: editor@FamiliesSW.co.uk News: news@FamiliesSW.co.uk adverts/artwork: adverts@FamiliesSW.co.uk events/Diary Dates/what’s on: whatson@FamiliesSW.co.uk Next issue: March/April 2019 ISSN 1354-9553. All contents ©Families SW 2019.

News

Not so 'free' childcare Up to 30 hours a week governmentfunded childcare is available to eligible parents who sign up to an approved preschool provider, including schools with nurseries, private day nurseries, childminders, playgroups and preschools.

All good news, except the allowance doesn't always cover costs, particularly here in London where decent childcarer pay, rent and rates are not always covered by the payments brought in by parents. As a result, some local nurseries have had to shut down or charge for extras.

New Year, New Challenge?

Would you have some spare time to help a local family? Home-Start Wandsworth are looking for people to join their amazing network of volunteers supporting families with young children across the borough through home visiting and group activities. You would support families who are finding it difficult to cope and provide them with emotional support, practical help and friendship. You can use the knowledge and experience gained from looking after your own family to support others who are struggling. All you need are empathy, enthusiasm and reliability.

Research for the Department of Education confirms that 56% of parents are charged for additional items or activities including meals and snacks, and special activities such as music, gym lessons or outings. Furthermore, almost half of parents said that they had seen restrictions placed on when they could use the hours or that they had to be taken at times specified by the provider.

Parents can save money with a Tax-free Childcare account. Pay in £8 and the government will top it up with an extra £2, raising the amount available to spend on childcare to £10. Across the year, this could cut your childcare bill from £6,000 to £4,800. The credit can be used for all kinds of regulated childcare from nannies, nurseries and childminders, to breakfast, after-school and holiday clubs.

Check online to see if you are eligible www.childcarechoices.gov.uk

Amanda Thompson, a leading antenatal teacher, will be launching her own company Bundle in Streatham, Wandsworth and Fulham in the new year. Classes will focus on the all important post natal period without diluting the antenatal offering. “We know that being a new parent can be overwhelming but with the right support you can enjoy every minute of it!”

Merton Live: a great day out for the whole family

6 Families South West • January/February 2019

Did you know? Singing improves your mood, it is also good for your health and well being. So why not join a choir where you can sing your heart out and meet like-minded mums? Pram Chorus does not require any experience or talent to join, everyone is welcome to join.

It's about YOU doing something creative and fun for yourself, where your little one is also welcome (in all his/her vocal glory!). So bring yourself, your bump, babies, toddlers and preschoolers and come to sing a huge variety of songs— no nursery rhymes.

Various locations in South London.

Get in touch for more info or to join ruth@pramchorus.com www.pramchorus.com

New antenatal and post natal classes

They have a training programme to help prepare you to support families, covering a range of topics including coaching, mental health awareness, boundaries and signposting.

Volunteering requires only 2 to 4 hours a week.

Their next preparation course runs for 9 sessions (9:30-14:30) on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 27th February-27th March 2019, at 20-22 York Road, Battersea, SW11 3QA. 020 7924 5268 or enquiries@homestartwandsworth.org.uk

Wimbledon Guild, the local charity that supports people across Merton, together with New Wimbledon Theatre are holding a brand-new community event on Saturday 26 January from 10am-5pm to celebrate local talent in Merton.

Merton Live! will showcase a fantastic line-up of local bands, dance, drama and gymnastics groups. In addition, the theatre will be throwing open its doors for ticketholders to explore this historic building with backstage tours and a host of theatre related

Why not join Pram Chorus, the parent’s choir?

activities for all the family including: workshops, dressing up in theatre costumes, face painting, insight to technical side of the theatre, arts and crafts, treasure hunt, food and drink, plus lots more.

Join Bundle and you will have access to a team of experts (midwives, antenatal instructors, nutritionists, obstetricians) who will be there to help you. Weaning, First Aid, Baby Massage and Breastfeeding support will be on offer from February, antenatal courses from June.

Email team@bundlelondon.com for more information or visit www.bundlelondon.com

Get your ticket here www.atgtickets.com/wimbledon

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BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU

#K@RRDR +HCR

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Lancet warns of WIFI health risks for children Mounting scientific evidence suggests that prolonged exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation has serious health effects, says The Lancet For years at Families SW we have been reporting on our concerns about human exposure to WIFI. I was relieved — at last — to read an article in The Lancet, December 2018, commenting: “Evidence exists for an association between neurodevelopmental or behavioural disorders in children and exposure to wireless devices, and experimental evidence, such as the Yale finding, shows that prenatal exposure could cause structural and functional changes in the brain associated with aDHD-like behaviour.

These findings deserve urgent attention.” “…Some government health authorities have recently taken steps to reduce public exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation by regulating use of wireless devices by children and recommending preferential use of wired communication devices in general, but this ought to be a coordinated international effort.”

Do your own research, investigate the many sites that provide information like wifiinschools.org.uk and others, then sign petitions, fight 5G, it’s really scary and must be fought.

In the meantime why wait to protect your children? We can begin to protect our families by adopting simple, preventative measures like turning our routers off at night, limiting our children’s exposure to any sort of WIFI enabled gadgets like smart phones, tablets, wireless baby monitors (yes them too) and refusing to have a smart meter installed.

Read the Lancet article here http://bit.ly/Lancetarticle

New School BJJ is one of the top clubs in the country teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a martial art famous for its grappling techniques. These are safe and fun to learn, whilst being extremely effective for self-defence.

Their Youth Squad compete regularly, and have had success in International and national competitions!

Why not join the fun with New School BJJ! www.NewSchoolBJJ.com 07469 192329

Congratulations to All Star Tennis who will be celebrating their 20th Anniversary this year!

Sessions for tots through to teens and a fantastic holiday programme in 4 locations across the Wandsworth borough. www.allstartennis.co.uk

Spin a tale during National Storytelling Week The first week of February marks National Storytelling Week, a chance to reflect on one of the oldest art forms in the world. We are all immersed in stories—from conversations during which we re-tell events in our lives, to watching our favourite television shows. Speech and language therapists believe that storytelling is vital for children's academic success as it promotes narrative skills and strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer a child needs firstly to be a good speaker and listener.

Above all though, storytelling is fun. Whether we are listening to someone else's story or telling our own, inventing and adapting narratives can open doors to exciting new worlds—both real and imaginary. To find a local event or to look through its extensive archive, visit the organisers' website www.sfs.org.uk

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January/February 2019 • Families South West 7

Families Top five...

Here is our pick of the best five things to do with the whole family this January and February…

imagine Children’s Festival Southbank Centre SE1 www.southbankcentre.co.uk 13-24 February The largest festival of its kind in London, dedicated to art and culture for kids and families. This year includes The League of Laureates with Malorie Blackman, Chris Riddell and Jacqueline Wilson celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Children’s Laureate, Sue Perkins guest-conducting Noisey Notes interactive concert, and Peppa Pig’s First Orchestra, with Mummy Pig conducting for the first time. Plus, see We’re Going on a Bear Hunt live in concert, and take part in West End Kids Workshops in performance, song and dance with the child performers from The School of Rock.

Kew orchids Festival: Colombia! a great day out Kew Gardens, Richmond, Surrey www.kew.org 9 February – 10 march Visit Kew’s first ever Orchids Festival, on the theme of Colombia. This South American country is the world’s most bio-diverse for orchids, with over 4270 species! Also, enjoy Carnival music, street food and crafts for kids during the half term week – there promises to be loads to do to keep even the littlest entertained!

puddle Jumping Championships !!

WWT London Wetland Centre, Barnes SW13 9WT wwt.org.uk 16-24 February Join the Wetland Centre for the London Puddle Jumping Championships this half-term where children of all ages are encouraged to grab their wellies and have fun jumping in puddles. Jumping is free with paid admission to the centre and free to WWT members.

party at the palace!

experience life in the baroque palace

Kensington Palace W8 4PX hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace 17-22 February

Hampton Court Palace KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace 16-24 February

This February half term, come and join in the gossip, display and fun of the Baroque court at Kensington Palace. Take part in traditional court games for a chance to meet Queen Anne, along with other hands-on activities perfect for all the family.

Included in Kensington Palace admission.

Experience life in the Baroque Palace and meet characters from the past this February half term at Hampton Court. Perfect for all the family, visitors can enjoy live drama and hands-on activities exploring the stories of Queen Anne and her courtiers. Included in Hampton Court Palace admission.

8 Families South West • January/February 2019

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Register now for Wear A Hat Day If you’re looking for a fun activity for the whole family, look no further than Wear A Hat Day. The annual fundraising event takes place on Friday 29th March, 2019 and the Brain Tumour Research charity needs your help to make it the biggest, boldest and hattiest EVER! There are so many ways to get involved and the little ones will have so much fun, all whilst helping an important cause. From organising a hatty fashion show and making Easter bonnets, to hosting a bake sale and going on a hat-tastic walkabout, you can plan any type of event you fancy… just don’t forget your hat!

By taking part in Wear A Hat Day, you will be helping to raise vital funds for research into brain tumours. The disease is indiscriminate and it can affect anyone at any age. What’s more, brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet historically just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. register for wear a Hat Day and your family can help change this, simply go to www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/wear-ahat-day/wear-a-hat-day-registration

Keep Your Family Healthy In 2019 Doctors and physios to your door, 7 days a week

Postnatal Pilates Re-connecting to your bodies with Holistic Body Focus.

Fridays 11.45-12.45 at Fresh Ground, 68 Battersea Rise SW11 1EQ

SPECIAL OFFER! £10 Taster class when booking online with code HBFPN10 www.hbfocus.co.uk These classes are led by pre & postnatal specialist Hannah Brown aiming to support the postural demands of life with a baby and improve muscle tone, strength and mobility. In her friendly and relaxed classes you will meet other mums and babies and get personalised advice on a safe and effective way to return to your pre-pregnant physique. This class is suitable for mums from 6 weeks after your baby is born (8-12 weeks post c section) until baby is crawling.

Come and trial a class and give your body some much needed TLC. To book or for more info please go to the website www.hbfocus.co.uk

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Sometimes waiting weeks to see a doctor simply isn’t an option, especially when it’s for your little one. Here at Qured, we know what it’s like to trek to A&E when the surgery is closed, only to be faced with a long wait to be seen.

Qured provides some of London’s best doctors and physios to your door, day and night, saving you precious time. You can use our brilliant app or go to qured.com, to book a doctor or physio to your home and be seen in as little as 2 hours, or whenever best suits your schedule. It really is that simple! we also offer:

• Prescriptions • Referrals • Sick notes • Vaccinations

SPECIAL OFFER! For £25 off your first appointment, use code FAMILY25 For more info or to book an appointment, head to qured.com or download our app from the App Store. hello@qured.com +44 (0)20 948 1634

January/February 2019 • Families South West 9

Six of the best things to do while you’re on Maternity Leave by ruth bennett, co-founder of babble Talks You’re expecting a baby – congratulations! Whether this is your first or your fourth, thinking about how to spend your maternity leave can be overwhelming. As all mothers will attest, maternity leave is NOT a holiday (partners take note, please!). Babies disrupt everything and the experience is unlike anything else in the world. It’s amazing and challenging in equal measure.

The way that every new mother copes is individual and, as the weeks and months go by, the needs of your baby will change too. For some, it’s all about going with the flow, whereas others rely on getting things planned in to give their days some structure.

If you’re looking for inspiration about how to spend your maternity leave, here are my top six things to do:

1. enjoy our green spaces!

3. Get active!

From Wandsworth to Wimbledon, there are plenty of lovely commons and parks that are perfect for walking with the buggy. Getting out and about allows you to be active without putting too much pressure on your recovering body, and it gives your little one some fresh air and a wealth of interesting sights and sounds.

Take a moment for a drink and a bite to eat in one of the many lovely cafes.

Once you’ve been given the thumbs up from the GP at your six-week check, mother-andbaby yoga is a time to stretch, relax and entertain your baby all in one go. I loved Kathleen Beegan’s six-week postnatal yoga course in Streatham (kathleensyoga.co.uk).

Have fun and make friends at the parent and child classes at The Little Gym https://wandsworthfulham.thelittlegym.eu or enjoy baby swim classes at Swimway.co.uk or Waterbabies.co.uk

2. Grab the popcorn and head to the cinema!

In the early days of your maternity leave, life can feel like a constant cycle of feeding, burping and nappy changing. Hopefully baby will be sleeping lots too … but you, not so much! So heading to a late-morning showing of a new release at the cinema is a great way to give yourself a break and connect with what’s going on in the world outside of the baby bubble. There are mum and baby cinemas at the Ritzy, Odeon, Cineworld, Clapham Picture House.

10 Families South West • January/February 2019

4. Stimulate those senses!

There are so many options for classes that introduce little ones to sights, sounds and senses. Pretty much all new experiences are exciting for a little one, but babysensory.com classes are full of fun and provide lots of toys and props to play with. From around six months, we loved the Tiny Clippers classes, involving puppets, songs and sensory http://cliptheatre.com/tinyclippers

5. Get communicating!

A highlight of our week were our baby-signing classes. A combination of easy-to-learn songs and signs, this is a way to help communication and understanding before babies begin to form words. As your little one develops, it’s exciting to realise just how much they understand.

Signing is an additional way of helping them navigate this strange new world – and it’s fun too! singandsign.co.uk

6. Don’t forget about you!

All new mothers want the very best for their little ones. Trying to make everything just right can be exhausting. Make sure you don’t neglect yourself, as this will end up having an impact on both of you. Take a break from baby-focused activities once in a while and head to an activity that’s all about you! Sing your heart out with Pramchorus.com or enjoy a dose of much-needed laughter with BYOBComedy.com—or if you’re feeling like your mind is going to mush, BabbleTalks.com is an event where expert guest speakers present talks on everything from artificial intelligence to archaeology, especially for parents with babies under 1. See more baby friendly events in the Baby and toddler section page 54 in the What’s on column. ruth bennett is co-founder of Babble Talks.

Founded in 2018 in response to a lack of activities that allow new parents to stimulate their minds, with baby in tow!

Visit www.babbletalks.com for more information.

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11 PLUS TUITION

Mrs Jones EDUCATION

Y4 & Y5 COURSES 2019 & 2020

11 Plus Foundation – Year 4 (one year)

Limited Space

11 Plus Preparation – Year 5 (one year and 16 months) 11 Plus Mock Exams – Year 4 & Year 5 Highly Experienced Graduate Teacher EXCELLENT RESULTS

Call us to book your child’s place

0208 390 6076 South West London

11 PLUS MOCK EXAMS State Grammar and Private Schools Mathematics, English, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Cloze Procedure and Exam Technique

All the Year 4 Foundation and Year 5 Preparation Courses include weekly tuition classes and monthly mock exams.

Year 4 and Year 5 NOW BOOKING courses starting in January 2019

www.11plustuition.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

January/February 2019 • Families South West 11

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

Schools Open Days JaN/Feb 2019 SW1 eaton House belgravia pre-prep 3-8 Boys Open Evening 13/3 7-9pm 020 3917 5050 www.eatonhouseschools.com

SW2 Christ Church Streatham Ce primary School, 411 Co-Ed Open Day 14/1 at 10am and 2pm 0208 674 4308 www.christchurchstreatham.lambeth.sch.uk

SW3 The Hampshire School Co-ed 3-13yrs Open day 30/1 9-11.15am. 020 7352 7077. To book a place, please visit www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk/open-day Hill House 4-13 Co-Ed Tours of school available every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday during term time at 8.30am, no appointment necessary 020 7584 1331 www.hillhouseschool.co.uk St Joseph’s Catholic primary School Nursery open day 7/2 2-3pm 020 7589 2438 www.stjosephs.rbkc.sch.uk

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

SW11 Dolphin School 2.5-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 10/1, 17/1, 31/1 and 28/2 at 9.15-10.40am, by appointment only 020 7924 3472 www.dolphinschool.org.uk l’ecole De battersea 3-11 Co-Ed School visits are held on Friday mornings 11/1, 18/1, 25/1,1/2, 1/3, 8/3, 15/3, 22/3 and 29/3 at 10am, by appointment only 0207 371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk Thames Christian School 11-16 Co-Ed Open Mornings 26/2, 6/3 and 25/4 020 7228 3933 www.thameschristianschool.org.uk Christ Church Cofe primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Day 9/1 10.30am-12pm, by appointment only 020 7228 2812 www.christchurchwandsworth.sch.uk belleville primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Tours of the school 10/1, 31/1 and 21/3 at 9.30am 020 7228 6727 www.belleville-school.org.ukSt mark’s C of e primary School School tours Mondays andFridays at 9.15am 020 7735 1467

SW4 eaton House The manor 8-13 Boys Open House 16/1, 23/1, 30/1, 6/2, 13/2, 27/2, 6/3 and 20/3 at 9am 020 7924 6000 www.eatonhouseschools.com parkgate House School 2.5-11 Co-ed Open morning 2/3 9.30am-12 020 7350 2461 www.parkgate-school.co.uk

SW6 Fulham prep School 4-13 Co-Ed Pre-Prep Open Mornings 28/2 and 26/3 at 9.15am, 10.15am and 11.15am, call to book a place and time slot 020 7471 4217, Prep School tours by appointment only 020 7386 2444 www.fulhamprep.co.uk l’ecole Des petits 3-6 Co-Ed School visits are held on Thursday mornings 10/1, 17/1, 24/1, 31/1, 7/2, 28/2, 7/3, 14/3, 21/3 and 28/3 at 10am. Visits are by appointment only 0207 371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk Sinclair House School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Day 14/3 10am-11.30am 020 7736 9182, www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

SW7 eaton House belgravia prep 8-13 Boys Open Evening 13/3 7-9pm 020 7924 6000 www.eatonhouseschools.com St Nicholas prep School 3-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 17/1 9.30-11am 020 7225 1277 www.stnicholasprep.co.uk

12 Families South West • January/February 2019

SW12 The white House 2-11yrs Co-ed. Open morning 27/4, 9:30-11:30am. www.thewhitehouseschool.com Hornsby House School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 14/3 at 9am 020 8673 7573 www.hornsbyhouse.org.uk ravenstone primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Days 10/1, 28/2 and 26/3 at 9am, booking required 020 8673 0594 www.ravenstoneschool.co.uk/

. . . e t a d Up SW18 The roche School 2.5-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings 16/1, 1/3, 10/5 and 12/6 at 9.3011.30am, call to make an appointment on 020 8877 0823 www.therocheschool.co.uk St michael’s Cofe primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning by appointment only on 7/1 at 9.30am 020 8874 7786 www.stmichaels.wandsworth.sch.uk

SW19 The Study prep School 4-11 Girls Open Morning 9/3 9.30am-12pm, plus Tours on Tuesday mornings throughout January-March 9.20-10.30am 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk wimbledon Common prep (also known as Squirrels) 4-7 Boys Open Morning 23/1 9.1510.45am, bookings are open now 020 8946 1001 www.wimbledoncommonprep.co.uk wimbledon High School 11-18 Girls Senior School Open Mornings 19/3 and 26/3 at 8.50am, Junior School Open Mornings 26/2 and 12/3 020 8971 0900 www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net Kings College School 7-16 Boys, 16-18 Co-Ed Junior School (7+, 8+, 9+ and 10+ entry) Open Morning 21/6 9.30am-12pm 020 8255 5437 www.kcs.org.uk albemarle primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Days 11/1, 8/2 and 15/3 at 11am 020 8788 3170 www.albemarle.wandsworth.sch.uk our lady Queen of Heaven primary School 411 Co-Ed Open Afternoons 10/1 and 5/2 at 2pm, by registration only, plus monthly tours for Reception and Nursery can be booked through the school 020 8788 7420 www.ourladyqueenofheaven.wandsworth.sch.uk ronald ross primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 11/1 at 9.30am 020 8788 5233 www.ronaldross.org.uk

W6 SW14 Tower House prep School 4-13 Boys Open Mornings 25/1 and 1/2, plus tours of the school by appointment 020 8876 3323 www.thsboys.org.uk

SW15 ibstock place School 3-18 Co-Ed The Prep School Open Morning 30/1 at 9.30am, booking required 020 8876 9991 / 020 8392 5803 www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk Granard primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 1 0/1 at 9.15am, call to book a place 020 8788 3606 www.granardprimary.co.uk Falcons School for Girls 3-11 Open day 13/3 9.15-11am www.falconsgirls.co.uk 020 8992 5189 mosaic Jewish primary School 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 10/1 at 9.30am 07973 137002 www.mjps.org.uk

ravenscourt park prep School W6 4-11 Co-Ed Open Morning 17/1 9am, booking necessary 020 8846 9153 www.rpps.co.uk

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

BATH King edward’s School bath 3-18 Co-ed Open morning Pre-prep and nursery 27/2 9am-12 01225 820 399 www.kes.com

Call to book your place now! familiesonline.co.uk

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January/February 2019 • Families South West 13

Education News New Head at the Hampshire School Chelsea The Hampshire School Chelsea welcomed a new Head last September, as Dr Pamela Edmonds, previously Head of St Cedd’s School in Chelmsford Essex, succeeded Mr Donal Brennan. With a teaching career spanning over two decades within independent schools as Head and in senior leadership roles in the UK and abroad, in addition to being called upon to inspect as an Education Quality Team Inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) and a member of the Association of Governing Bodies of Independent Schools (AGBIS) Board, Dr Edmonds has a wealth of experience to draw from.

The Hampshire School Chelsea provides an education for children aged 3–13 years through its Early Years, Pre-Prep and Prep School. The Pre-Prep and Prep School is housed in the iconic old Chelsea Library, with the early learners within close proximity benefitting from an EYFS setting at Wetherby Place.

15 Manresa Road, SW3 6NB, 020 7352 7077 (Pre-Prep and Prep School) and 5 Wetherby Place, SW7 4NX, 020 7370 7081 (Early Years) www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk

peregrines pre-prep connects with the big apple Pupils at Peregrines Pre-Preparatory School are participating in an innovative transatlantic partnership with the highly-prestigious Wetherby-Pembridge New York, also part of the Alpha Plus Group of schools. Excited Year 1 and 2 children from the Putney-based school recently enjoyed the launch of the new initiative in which both schools communicated via video to undertake a variety of creative joint projects.

To kick-start the venture, Peregrines pupils created an educational, historical piece of film of them acting out the Gun Powder plot. This

award for eaton House belgravia Eaton House Belgravia (Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep schools) has just won a Highly Commended Award in the Independent Boys’ School of the Year Category in the Independent School of the Year Awards 2018, is now registering for 2020, with a few 2019 places remaining.

They are holding two Open Evenings from 7-9pm on Wednesday 13 March and Wednesday 12 June 2019, bookable via the website at www.eatonhouseschools.com. To find out more, please contact Jennifer McEnhill, Head of Admissions, at jmcenhill@eatonhouseschools.com or on 0203 917 5050.

taught their American friends all about the English tradition of Bonfire Night and why it came about. In exchange, the children at Peregrines enjoyed watching imaginative footage from Wetherby-Pembridge about American Thanks Giving.

Taking inspiration from their media exchange from across the ocean, the young learners crafted and wrote labels to people who they are thankful for to show their gratitude. To register for an Open Day, call Harriet Stokes, Registrar on 020 8992 5189 or email admissions@falconsgirls.co.uk

Common entrance exams dropped Westminster, St Paul’s and Wellington College will stop requiring pupils to take the Common Exam from 2021. They will rely solely on their ‘pre-test’, which is taken at the age of 10 and 11.

Patrick Derham, Head Master of Westminster said he wanted to “remove uncertainly and unnecessary stress” and it would “allow prep schools to adapt their curriculum in Years 7 and 8 in ways that are rigorous but inspiring. “

Scholarships at Dolphin School Following last year’s excellent exam results and many offers to top Senior Schools, with 13 scholarships offered, Dolphin School are delighted to offer 7+ Academic Scholarships for entry into Year 3 in September 2019.

For further information and to apply please contact the Admissions Registrar, Mrs Benson at admissions@dolphinschool.org.uk Applications need to be in by 22nd January and the Assessment Day will be held on 29th January. Open Morning Tours, by appointment, will be held on 10th and 17th January. They look forward to meeting you.

14 Families South West • January/February 2019

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January/February 2019 • Families South West 15

Education From the first New Girls’ Tea Party aged 4 many Prep school girls bond with their closest friends, but what are the real reasons why parents should opt to send their girls to an independent school early rather than at age 7 or 8? It is important to be honest with parents and say that it can be hard to catch up on later entry, although of course we do our best to make it a seamless transition. Beyond purely academic factors, there are a number of extremely good and positive reasons why girls benefit from coming to us straight from nursery.

Why Girls should start independent education at 4...

1. FrieNDSHipS: Lifelong friendships are often formed in the first years of Prep school.

Groups form early and many last a lifetime— even beyond senior school.

2. aCaDemiC CoNSiSTeNCY: The academic excellence, consistency and familiarisation of a warm, genuine (and often specialist) teaching staff from the ages of 4-11 can prove key to girls’ academic success later.

3. broaD aND balaNCeD CurriCulum: A broad and balanced curriculum is key. The girls receive lessons in Maths, English, Science, Topics, Computing, Art, Music, Drama, French, PE, Games, Swimming, Ballet and TPR (Theology, Philosophy and Religion). In the senior half of the school, Reasoning, Critical Thinking and Latin are also introduced.

4. Small ClaSS SiZeS: With class sizes of up to 20, and one teacher and one teaching assistant with the girls throughout the first three years, we ensure that each girl receives a more bespoke learning process, often receiving

16 Families South West • January/February 2019

1:1 tuition. Date of birth is a factor in class grouping and is taken into account so that ‘summer babies’ don’t miss out.

5. CoNFiDeNCe: Through our single sex ethos, we put the girls’ confidence front and centre of all we do without any gender stereotyping. We adopt a ‘sky is the limit’ approach to academic learning and in all things.

6. CommuNiTY: We have a strong community where parents and carers are always in and out of the school twice a day at drop off and pick up, house events, play rehearsals, concerts and much more. The mothers of the youngest children often become firm friends as we are a very local school, based on beautiful Clapham Common.

7. SCHolarSHipS: Consistency of education aged 4-11 is important for potential scholars.

Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School achieved 25 scholarships in two years to London day and boarding schools and the early pace of work at age 4-8 allowed them more time for scholarship prep later.

8. aDDeD eXTraS: Our clubs and activities programme runs before and after school every day with over 35 pursuits on offer, from Junior Drama Club to Netballs Skills and Bookworm Club. Authors, explorers, scientists and charity leaders are just some of the remarkable individuals to have visited in the past year.

9. paSToral Care: We strive to make our pastoral care excellent in every way, supported by form teachers and the House system. We are extremely experienced in helping our smallest girls to enjoy learning without any pressure. If it’s happy and fun, it’s working!

Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School

By oliver Snowball, Headmaster of Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School www.eatonhouseschools.com

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Southfields call 020 8870 8300 email southfields@numberworks.com

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

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January/February 2019 • Families South West 17

18 Families South West • January/February 2019

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Nursery Education

improving the Number Foundations of preSchoolers

Nursery Selection: The Start on the education map

F

or the majority of new parents, looking ahead and beyond their child’s next feed or bath time is a challenge. For many London parents these fraught first days are further complicated with concerns for their child’s education before they can often walk or indeed talk!

The growth in what is now frequently termed ‘educational mapping’ has developed from the need to navigate early schooling options in a city where competition is fierce for popular and often oversubscribed nursery schools with many requiring registration from birth.

Undoubtedly there is much choice with the structure of nurseries becoming increasingly diverse to accommodate changing needs of parents. Furthermore, nursery education is often characterised by a range of ‘approaches’ in the best teaching methods to be introduced during these key early years. Parents are progressively forced to research the growing options available just to meet frequently

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changing family circumstances.

If an individual child’s larger ‘educational map’ is considered, these choices are further complicated. Many top London prep school admissions operate a ‘selective’ entry procedure for children joining from as young as reception age. These early admission challenges place further responsibility on nursery schools and pressure on parents to select a school that is able to equip their child with the required skills for this critical next stage of their educational journey.

Janie Richardson of JR School Search is confident that by supporting clients with informed advice and careful planning the selection of a ‘strong fit’ nursery can provide a valuable step to ensuring the best choice of school is available to be plotted next on the education map.

Janie Richardson School Search & Placement www.Jrschoolsearch.com

A leading child psychologist from Kingston University has produced a series of number games for nurseries and parents which are proven to boost the confidence and ability of pre-school children in maths in just 5 weeks.

Dr Jo Van Herwegen created the games based on her research into the Approximate Number System (ANS), a mechanism used by the brain to differentiate between groups that have more or fewer items in them without counting. The ANS games are based on two foundations - estimation and matching approximate large amounts. "The activities we've developed are fun, rather than formal lesson plans, but they're based on scientific evidence about the cornerstones of mathematical learning and how to nurture this in young children."

Her research showed that playing these specially-designed games for 10 minutes a day for 5 weeks improved young children's number foundations, the essential building blocks needed for mathematics. This improvement was still apparent 6 months later, when the children had started formal education.

To download the free games, visit www.kingston.ac.uk/research/researchshowcase/research-case-studies

Curiosity is key to early childhood success New research links curiosity levels in young children with later academic success.

Researchers from the University of Michigan assessed the reading and maths ability of 6,200 kindergarten children and found that the children of parents who reported their child’s behaviour as highly curious did the best at school, regardless of socioeconomic status. The results were consistent for both boys and girls.

The children’s reading and maths scores were consistently better the more curious they were. That was true even when the students weren't very good at a self-control measure called "effortful control," which tracks how attentive and persistent students are when completing tasks. “Even if a child manifests low effortful control, higher curiosity may be associated with more optimal academic achievement,” the authors of the study wrote.

The study, published in the journal Pediatric Research said that that cultivating curiosity in children, especially in those from deprived backgrounds may be a valuable way of fostering academic achievement.

More info at www.nature.com

January/February 2019 • Families South West 19

FLEDGLinGS On THE COMMOn ‘Where childhood memories are made’ • Ofsted registered for 28 children

• Open 9.15am – 12.15pm term time only

• Staff are qualified, committed and enthusiastic practitioners

• Exceptional outside environment able to support high quality learning opportunities which build on the children’s interests and capabilities

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

Full and part time sessions offered

• We provide a safe, secure nurturing environment to support your child’s individual needs

Places available for EECP funded children

• 2year old Early Education funding available for eligible children

fledglingskindergarten@cbcservices.org.uk

• FNEP Funding accepted

Please contact: John Barleycorn Fledglings on the Common 1 O’Clock Centre Chivalry Road SW11 1HT Tel no: 0207 7101 2034

Email: fledglingsonthecommon@cbcservices.org.uk

Ofsted rated: good

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

FLEDGLinGS EARLy yEAR & OUT OF SCHOOL CARE

‘Where childhood memories are made’

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

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

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

environments to support children’s interests and capabilities

• Flexible full time and part time packages

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

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

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

Contact 0207 101 2033 visit our website at www.cbcservices.org.uk info@cbcservices.org.uk 0207 738 1958 Ofsted rated: good

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

FLEDGLinGS On THE COMMOn CHiVALRy ROAD, WAnDSWORTH COMMOn SW11 1HT

0207 101 2034

fledglingsonthecommon@cbcservices.org.uk

OPEn PLAy SESSiOnS

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

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

under 5s under 5s under 8s

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

Monday to Friday (school holidays)

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

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

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

0207 738 1958

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

THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

THE MONTESSORI CHILDREN

HOLIDAY AND AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS

We provide a delightful environment for children from 2yrs of age. Offering the full Montessori curriculum with visiting teachers for Music, Dancing, Yoga, French, Drama, Sports & Gymnastics.

Local children up to the age of 8yrs are welcome to join in with our fun and creative activity days during school breaks.

School pick-ups and homework clubs are also available during term time.

CALL US TO BOOK A VISIT TO THE NURSERY

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

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

www.themontessorischool.co.uk

“Somerset is a highly developed effective educational practice, where every child is treated as an individual”– OFSTED 2018 A stimulating, vibrant, challenging, inclusive environment where children are able to pursue their own curiosities, take risks and discover from first-hand experiences.

Led by qualified, experienced teachers who enable children to become happy, independent creative thinkers, with a joy for learning.

Places Available: - Free 30 hours where eligible - Free 15 hours part time - Free 15 hours for 2 yr. olds where eligible - 15 or 30 hours fee-paying To arrange a visit please call the school on 0207 223 5455 157 Battersea Church Road, London SW11 3ND www.somerset.wandsworth.sch.uk Maintained and funded by Wandsworth Borough Council

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Breakfast and Afterschool Clubs Available!

January/February 2019 • Families South West 21

Nursery Education

Characteristics of Effective Learning Unlocking young minds through play The Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum highlights the importance of what children learn as well as how they learn. The ‘Characteristics of Effective Learning’ run through the Hampshire School’s day to day routine and underpin three essential indicators of learning through play: ‘Playing and Exploring’, ‘Active learning’ and ‘Creating and Critical Thinking’.

by Samantha Danison, Head of Early Years, The Hampshire School Chelsea allowing children free play choices while extending their play experiences Playing and Exploring in our Early Years setting means that children are able to create their own learning experiences where they can practise skills they have learnt. In order for children to demonstrate their depth of play through child initiated learning, our team prioritises a high quality provision and a learning environment that allows children to self-serve and have free access to resources that will enrich their play.

Whilst complete exploration is a pivotal factor to learning in the Early Years, there should also be a balance of adult initiated activities. At The Hampshire School Chelsea, highly skilled teachers plan purposeful activities for children to play and engage with. These activities are planned with a learning intention which allows pupils to work on their developmental next steps whilst playing. The classroom environment is set up so that all additional resources provide free choice and exploration to further extend their play experiences. active learning expresses the children’s motivation for learning Nurturing the children’s love of learning is essential and we strive to ensure that this is based upon the children’s interests and natural

22 Families South West • January/February 2019

curiosities. Whilst play and exploration is vital for learning, active learning is facilitated by support and careful planning of a class teacher so that young children know how to improve and what their next steps are. In our Early Years setting, we have high expectations of our children and we share their next steps with them. Thus, the children are motivated to try activities to support their progression.

Furthermore, Creating and Critical thinking encompasses children being independent learners. Children display this characteristic when they have been given the tools and stimulus to think and have their own ideas to make links with their learning. The only way children can demonstrate this characteristic within their play is if the adult supporting enables the environment and lesson stimulus to lend itself to children taking an idea and making their own decisions about how to approach a task. who’s gone bananas? encouraging critical thinking A great example of Creating and Critical thinking in our Early Years, is when adults set up a stimulus in the classroom. One example I witnessed was when one particular classroom was a mess with bananas on the floor. The children had to share ideas and conclude what

had happened. The children agreed that it was a ‘monkey that escaped from London Zoo’.

They then decided to write wanted posters to help catch the monkey. Then, during a period of free flow exploration; many children wrote lists to create a trap, used creative materials to construct ‘lifelike’ bananas in order to create a trail; in addition, others used magnifying glasses to check the rest of the school inspecting to see if there was a route he followed. Teachers allowed children to engage with the learning in a way of their choice.

Observation of children in their play indicated that through one stimulus, the children explored and were able to demonstrate skills in all areas of the curriculum. They were highly motivated and challenged themselves through the activities chosen.

To conclude, the Characteristics of Effective Learning provide us with the ways in which children learn generally. As professionals, we work carefully to pay attention to individual learners through personalised learning and ensure each play and learning opportunity within school, is tailored to the unique aspects of each child.

15 Manresa Road, London SW3 6NB (Pre-Prep and Prep School) and 5 Wetherby Place, London SW7 4NX (Pre-Prep and Prep School) www.TheHampshireSchoolChelsea.co.uk

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Education News Deadline for applying for free childcare Are you a working parent with a three year old child? Does your child attend a nursery or childminder? All 3 and 4 year old children are entitled to 15 hours of funded term time childcare, from September 2017, some working parents are able to claim an additional 15 hours of funded childcare.

Find out if you qualify for 30 hours free childcare by visiting www.wandsworth.gov.uk/30hours. You will need to apply and verify your code by 31 March. For more information, contact the Wandsworth Early Education and Childcare Team on 020 8871 7899.

music at the white House Music is at the forefront at The White House Prep School in Balham. Year 3-6 kicked off back to school after the half term with a choral performance at the Barbican. This was followed by a superb performance at The Royal Albert Hall to help raise money for Barnardos.

outstanding Somerset nursery Somerset Nursery School is one of three local authority schools dedicated to the early years.

In February 2018 they were delighted to receive an ‘Outstanding’ school inspection.

They are a highly trained and experienced team

of qualified teachers and nursery nurses, who have a passion for creating interesting and exciting, learning experiences; set in the most wonderful purpose built school, with an amazing outdoor space. 020 7223 5455 www.somerset.wandsworth.sch.uk

Not to be left out, Year 1 & 2 sung Christmas songs at Southwark Cathedral and the term finished with the whole school singing Christmas Carols on the drive, with mince pies and mulled wine. www.whitehouseschool.com

For the love of forests The children's love of the forest at The Roche Nursery Schools is a highlight of their week.

Dressed in their school puddle-suits, they set off to Wimbledon Common in search of wonderful adventures. Den building and natural hidey-holes are favourite themes of exploration. Roche Rangers have discovered that you can make music by finding tapping sticks and striking them against the bark of any tree. The children adore the freedom of being outdoors and to make daring decisions such as balancing on logs! A strong emphasis on outdoor learning is encouraged and supported at The Roche Nursery Schools. Both have spacious outdoor areas including a magical garden at Keswick House.

020 8877 0823 www.therocheschool.com

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January/February 2019 • Families South West 23

ST MARK’S Church of England Primary School

Monday to Friday mornings and afternoon sessions now available

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

24 Families South West • January/February 2019

A school where children develop the passion to learn, the skills and knowledge to achieve and the confidence to take Christian values into our diverse society.

School Tours Mondays and Fridays at 9.15am

Harleyford Road, Kennington, London, SE11 5SL TEL: 0207 7351467 email: admin@stmarkscofe.lambeth.sch.uk Website: www.stmarkscofeprimarylambeth.co.uk

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OAK TREE DAY NURSERY 3 months to 5 years

8am to 6pm (Mon to Fri)

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

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

020 8674 4844

www.oaktreedaynursery.com

26 Families South West • January/February 2019

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Job opportunity - nursery practitioner The Woodentops nurseries, located in Balham & Clapham, are looking for passionate practitioners, full of creative ideas and enthusiasm to join the team.

Candidates should be nVQ level 3 or above.

The nurseries are family-owned and run and our teams are made up of some very special people. Through our nurseries and parent school, The White House Prep, we have been providing outstanding education and childcare in Clapham for over 30 years.

To apply contact nurserymanager@woodentopsnurseries.com woodentopsnurseries.com

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January/February 2019 • Families South West 27

Great for small parties

Perfect for Baby Showers, Gender Reveal and Bridal Showers

28 Families South West • January/February 2019

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Education News

amazing playground at playdays In May 2018 Playdays Wimbledon Hill undertook a complete refurbishment of their outdoor play area. The amazing space offers the children lots of freedom and space to explore as well as being an extension to the nursery classrooms throughout all weathers with the addition of a huge canopy.

Playdays believes that outdoor learning has a positive impact on our children’s well-being, learning and development, so it was designed with one fully lawned area with play apparatus for the younger children as well as a separate area where obstacle courses, construction activities can be set up for the more boisterous.

All in all, this fantastic area allows the children to explore their senses whilst enjoying being outdoors.

020 8944 8959 www.playdaysnurseries.co.uk

Give your child the best start at oak Tree Day Nursery Oak Tree Day Nursery in Streatham Hill aims to provide each child the opportunity to achieve their potential in a safe and stimulating environment.

The nursery follows the EYFS curriculum and have state-of-the art ICT equipment with touch screen and educational programmes for the children’s use.

The nursery also offers extra curricular activities such as French, Music and Movement and Fun sports at no extra cost.

The nursery has a sensory room and a large garden, which offers

the children plenty of opportunity for exploration, play and learning.

They also have a mud kitchen and pots to grow vegetables. The children enjoy outings to places such as the local library, fruit & vegetable stalls, parks, farms and Polka Theatre. Free baby and parents music workshop on Saturdays mornings for children aged 0-2 years.

Get 75% off registration fee in January with their advert page 26 .

Offer ends on 31/1/19.

020 8674 4844 www.oaktreedaynursery.com

Structured play sessions for little ones Little Learners is an OFSTED registered morning nursery offering children from 15 months the opportunity to enjoy regular structured play whilst developing essential preschool skills. Children learn the principles of sharing and turn taking whilst developing skills in problem solving and negotiation.

Influenced by the Montessori/Steiner approach to learning they use a range of

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techniques and resources to stimulate curiosity and critical thinking whilst promoting speech, language and social development.

Nurseries in SW11 & SW12 and open from Monday–Friday 9.3012.15 during the term times.

07941 103860 www.thelearners.co.uk

January/February 2019 • Families South West 29

Learn to support your child on an emotional and spiritual level by maria Cooper-Gomes, Holistic therapist

W

ith the increase in anxiety, low mood/depression amongst children young people these days, wouldn’t it be lovely to have a way to support your child on an emotional and spiritual level? Learning Reiki 1 as a parent is a wonderful way to increase the tools in your parenting tool box.

Anyone can learn Reiki 1, you do not need any previous experience, all you need is an open mind and an open heart. It can be learned in a day or over a course of two days. It is a process, so although the course is not long, it is more of a personal healing journey that awakens your inner self.

life long benefit of reiki Introducing Reiki to your children from a young age will teach your children about the importance of self-care, to take responsibility for their emotional, mental health and physical health. It raises their self-awareness, aiding a positive attitude. On a deeper level it heals negative family patterns that are carried from one generation to another. It educates children from a young age to be and stay authentic, helps them to trust themselves and the world that they live in.

I first learned Reiki just before I became pregnant with my eldest, who is now 21. I used it throughout my pregnancy, he has always loved reiki and always found it comforting, reassuring and safe. I used it at a time when I was going through a separation from an abusive relationship with my son’s father.

Having this tool meant that I could help and empower myself as well as support my son. I still believe to this day that it was Reiki healing that held me together from spiraling into chronic depression. My son who is 21 now

For more information on learning Reiki contact Maria on 07961 803 298 or look up www.mariacoopergomes.com

Photo by Chiến Phạm on Unsplash

So how can reiki help you and your family?

It is gentle, safe, non-invasive, comforting and nurturing. It is inner wisdom, it is magic at your hands. Children are sensitive beings and like sponges, their energy loves Reiki. Reiki assists deep relaxation, calms the emotions bringing all aspects of self-mind and body into balance.

It is a great tool to have and use for your child’s first day at school, settling in period into school, bullying, dealing with changes, moving home, changing school, arrival of a new sibling, pressure of exams, family issues, when dealing with separation/divorce/death etc.

It can help with emotions like anxiety, fear,

anger sadness, loneliness. It helps with sleep, self-esteem, confidence, concentration, raise self-awareness, support physical with pain and discomfort.

describes Reiki makes him feel grounded, gives him a warm glowing feeling, a sense of wholeness and helps him connect to other people especially when he is feeling detached from the world. My 9-year-old also loves Reiki and I use it as his bed time routine, he describes as relaxing, calming and helps him feel safe at night time.

You can incorporate this healing in your daily activities, it does not have to be a structured treatment. Children are free beings and they like to move this way. You can simply treat your child while they are playing, reading, eating, watching television.

For you as the parent, Reiki will nurture and empower you so that you can then nurture and empower the family and be able to support them fully, fill your cup first and then let this flow to your family. Reiki will teach you how to practice self-care, be committed to your wellbeing and lead by example. Reiki healing helps by boosting your energy levels, be more centered, grounded, and balanced. This modality helps to balance hormones when experiencing both with moon cycle as well experiencing any menopausal symptoms.

Learning Reiki will expand you and your child allowing creativity to flow. It can help with intuition and support the body to heal naturally by activating the immune system.

Lastly and more importantly Reiki helps create a safe bond between you and your loved ones. This bond is healing, caring, compassionate and loving. In times of challenges Reiki can be there to support you and your family.

30 Families South West • January/February 2019

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All our applicants are personally interviewed and their references checked

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

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January/February 2019 • Families South West 31

Get Active! – Your New Year’s resolution for the whole family

by Tobias rossberg of The little Gym wandsworth & Fulham ou are feeling a little jaded after the festive season, the children spent too much time on their screens and parent guilt is in full force. Now is the time, bolstered by your New Year’s resolutions, to re-acquaint yourself with the gym, prep for that marathon or just do those 10,000 daily steps, measured on your new Christmas present. But what about the children? They should also be getting out and doing some exercise. Actually, not just in the first couple of weeks of the new year—they should be getting back into a regular weekly programme of activities.

Y

We all know why it is so important that children do regular exercise? It is healthy for them, helps them to keep a steady weight, and fit and healthy heart and lungs.

It comes as no surprise that active children are more likely to become active adults. A series of studies from multiple countries makes it increasingly clear that children spend far too much time sitting and that this inactivity is happening earlier than ever before. Getting your children involved in regular physical activity as early as possible may alter this trend for the better. Young children who acquire “fundamental movement skills” such as running, hopping, catching, throwing, balancing and twisting are more likely to get and stay physically active. Success in physical activities and games can also boost a child’s confidence. Research shows that children make judgments about their motor skill abilities at an early age, which may affect their willingness to take on new physical challenges as they get older.

exercise for self confidence The real surprise is it not just their overall physical health that benefits from regular exercise. Research suggests that creative physical activity may be the key to fostering confident, successful kids. For example, a 2007 report by the American Academy of Pediatrics noted the importance of play in promoting healthy child development both physical, cognitive and social.

exercise for mental health Did you also know that physical activity boosts children’s mental functioning? Young children’s brains undergo tremendous growth and change, which we can see reflected in a child’s improved processing speed, working memory, self-control and strategic decisionmaking ability. To foster this intellectual growth, you can encourage your child to participate in structured and repetitive physical

32 Families South West • January/February 2019

activities. Active games feature unpredictable elements and solvable problems to nurture “executive function” skills, which help children make plans and strategies to pursue their goals.

What’s more, researchers believe that physical games that require sustained focus and standing still at times can help with overall attention, even in extreme cases like ADHD. Cooperation is just one of a battery of teachable friendship skills that reflect healthy social and emotional development in a child.

The relevant skills vary by age, but include playing fairly, listening, demonstrating empathy and resolving conflicts peacefully. Other studies have tracked the leadership success of children who developed the ability to take turns and wait for a reward. These children grew into adolescents who were better able to handle frustration and stress, pay attention and make plans, and generally perform better in both school and social situations.

So maybe it is important that all the family have a New Year’s resolution of getting active and that we should ALL stick to it, both you, but probably more importantly the younger members of the family who have a whole life time to benefit from their early start to regular activity. what is the best activity for a child to take up?

Any and all is the best suggestion but I would of course recommend Gymnastics!

Gymnastics is widely regarded as one of the best early organised activities a child can participate in, providing an amazing variety of physical, cognitive and social skill development opportunities / challenges in a safe and structured way.

The little Gym wandsworth & Fulham offer a 7% discount if you mention Families.

020 8874 6567 www.wandsworthfulham.thelittlegym.eu familiesonline.co.uk

Clubs and Classes News

Choosing an after school activity: what really matters As parents we aim to support our children and equip them with the tools they need as they take on new challenges. Whether music, sport, drama, dance or STEM, term time courses are a great option, but it can be difficult knowing which one to choose.

If you are considering extra-curricular lessons for your child at the start of this new term, here are a few tips from The Strings Club Head Office Team, all gained from experience as parents as well as education professionals. make it fun It goes without saying that your child has to have fun. If this first box isn’t ticked then they won’t be interested in the class and it will have a negative impact. Make sure your chosen course creates an exciting atmosphere, meet the team if you can, just like at our Discovery Days.

make it rewarding In our experience children gain the most when they are rewarded for their progression.

Whether, like our weekly music lessons, your chosen course has incentives and a nationally recognised scheme such as Music Medals from ABRSM, make sure there is something which helps your child understand that they are doing well so they can feel good about themselves and encouraged all the time. boost development You understand that your child’s time is precious that’s the reason you are considering the course after all. Make sure you look out for how your chosen course talks about the positive impact it has on your child, what they will learn and how it will help them fulfill their potential. If they are seriously on their game they will have a personal report just as we do in our Term Time Courses.

If you’d like more information on The Strings Club go to www.thestringsclub.org or call 0121 296 9204.

How to choose a ballet class by blandine lamaison, la Sylvaine School of Dance Exposure to sports and the arts help children to develop into well rounded young men and women. Have you thought about ballet?

Dancing is a great activity for girls and boys. A lot of research is bringing stunning results.

Scientists can now affirm that ballet increases the development of children’s bodies by 40%, and slows down the ageing of the body by 40% after age 50. ballet for football and rugby teams Ballet dancers make it look effortless as they move across the stage, from lifts to pointe work. Your child can also be a part of this through the practice of classical ballet. Ballet for Boys was also rediscovered partly thanks to the immense success of Billy Elliot. Did you know that it is becoming “a must” for football and rugby teams who are now learning the benefits of controlled movement to lengthen or strengthen muscles? ballet will help children who start young with all sports Skills and coordination acquired during childhood and adolescence remain in our physical memory throughout our lifetime.

In ballet classes, your child’s co-ordination lateralisation and balance will develop. Group discipline will gently be established as your child learns to share and take turns. familiesonline.co.uk

In an environment where creativity is favoured, your child will enjoy mimed songs, free dance, improvisation and childhood stories. Through playful exercises using percussions, a child will gradually feel and understand musical time and rhythms.

Choose a school with properly trained teachers British organisations such as the RAD and ISTD lead the world in terms of dance education as they have devised teaching programs for “once week amateurs” through to vocational students, as well as Teacher Training Courses.

It is most important for parents to choose a school where teachers are properly trained as teachers, fully qualified and registered with one of the main bodies in the UK. Be wary of schools where teachers are introduced as “ballerinas”. Being a professional dancer is entirely different from being a trained teacher who study physiology and child’s development to teach children safely. Lets draw a parallel: can an accomplished writer teach little children how to read and write in a classroom?

At La Sylvaine and Wendy Bell School of Dance, your children will be looked after and taught in a warm and caring environment, by fully qualified and very experienced teachers, all of whom are RAD registered. Their schools are part of a large international family, founded in Paris in 1930. Many students have become renowned dancers and performers but most importantly, your children will be nurtured to develop self-confidence and a love of dance for life. Most carry on dancing for 15 years and further. www.lasylvaine.co.uk in Kensington, Chelsea, Fulham, Hammersmith.

January/February 2019 • Families South West 33

Your local Clubs & Classes

weekend Netball classes for all abilities For school Yrs 2-6 From complete beginners to school/club players wanting to improve individual skills and understanding of the game.

Their fun and friendly classes with fabulous coaches focus on developing key netball skills, teaching the rules of the game and building confidence—all whilst making new friendships and having FUN! Classes run during term time in Wandsworth, Kingston upon Thames and Elmbridge. Visit www.sistersnsport.com for more information and to book.

Sporty aND fun!

We instinctively know that active children learn better and are more confident, don’t we? Then why not try SportyMinis? They create fun, motivating, outdoor activity sessions for children ensuring a multi skills approach allowing for the development of ALL the fundamental movement skills children need to excel physical development. You can find them at their exclusive charity partner venue Fledglings on the Common SW11 1HT. Book via hoop.co.uk/sportymini

learning balls skills with playball Playball offers high quality, fun filled, classes tailored to meet the needs of younger children.

3-8 year olds learn the fundamental sport skills like tennis, hockey, cricket, golf, football, rugby, basketball, football, volleyball and just about any ball sport you can imagine. Also fantastic holiday camps and Mention Families birthday parties. to get one week FREE! www.playball-london.com 020 8123 2217

New Friday Stagecoach sessions from January Due to overwhelming demand for spaces at Stagecoach Fulham, they will be launching new

Friday sessions from January 2019. Early Stages (4-6 years) will run from 4.15pm to 5.45pm and Main School (6-18 years) from 4.30pm-7.30pm.

Term starts on 11th January and runs until 29th March.

To enrol, please call 0845 2025 727, email fulham@stagecoach.co.uk or visit their website at www.stagecoach.co.uk/fulham.

Keyboard Classes

paperbirds art classes

Learning the keyboard at home can be a lonely affair, but with Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes children learn in small groups, which is far more fun. Children get introduced to practical and theoretical music, with games, quizzes and art activities all based around music thrown in for good measure, you'll be amazed how much they can learn whilst having fun.

Streatham, Furzedown (New), Clapham and Blackheath, Herne Hill, Sydenham 01732 457100, mail@funkymonkey.info www.funkymonkey.info Attend a free class, book a term of classes and claim a 2nd free class!

Ready. Set. Paint! Paperbirds art classes are a wonderful way for children to express themselves, learn, unwind and have a lot of fun. Children paint, draw, build and create, learn about artists and experience with different techniques and always come home with a wonderful masterpiece. There are classes for children of all ages, events and amazing art parties and holiday camps …

Book early, they always sell out fast! www.paperbirds-london.co.uk contact@paperbirds-london.co.uk

raising Confident Children with perform Sara has two children, Honor (8) and James (6) who have both been attending Perform classes since they were 4 years old. Sara was drawn to Perform because of its focus on developing confidence and self-esteem in a fun way. “I’ve always wanted my children to feel confident speaking in public and chatting to all sorts of people. I think these are essential life skills these days. It’s not a pushy stage school” she explains. “Each week, the classes focus on a topic like manners, making eye contact or introducing themselves, but this is wrapped up in a highly engaging way in the context of drama and songs.”

“Since my children started attending Perform, other parents frequently remark on their confidence and how well they speak in school assemblies. I’m really impressed with how they chat to adults in places like shops and restaurants.”

Classes at Perform are small with two teachers per class. “The teachers are professional actors with amazing energy and enthusiasm. They go out of their way to understand and engage every child” reports Sara.”

Perform offers a FREE no-obligation dance or drama class in Balham, Battersea, Barnes, Chelsea, Clapham, Earlsfield, East Sheen, Fulham, Raynes Park, Streatham, Tooting and Wimbledon. Visit perform.org.uk/try to book.

Cricket in wimbledon and wandsworth Aspire Centre, SW18, Rutlish Indoor Sports Hall, SW19 and St Cecilia’s School, SW18 Very popular action packed cricket courses aimed at boys and girls aged under 5s to under 13s school years of all abilities. These skill packed courses ensure that all participants learn and develop a variety of batting, bowling and fielding skills at an energetic and fun pace.

Also holiday courses and birthday parties. info@cricketdynamics.co.uk 07946 559572 https://cricketdynamics.co.uk/

Skateboarding club Well done Urban studio who teaches urban sports disciplines such as skate boarding, inline skating, scootering and BMXing. They have successfully delivered funded social projects across the borough of Wandsworth, aimed at young people who participated in skateboard design and tuition workshops. They are encouraging young people as well as adults to participate in these activities to improve fitness levels and general wellbeing. Their urban sports programme focuses on developing motor skills, coordination, balance, strength, agility, stamina, accuracy and judgement. All the sessions and programmes are tailored to suit all ages and abilities and welcome those who have disabilities. www.urbanstudiosessions.co.uk/events or contact Michael on 07950 581 981.

Cricket Dynamics

34 Families South West • January/February 2019

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Cricket parties

Football fun for children aged 18 months-7 years.

Learning the FUNdamentals of Football

Bespoke clothing for schools and clubs

Term time courses in Wimbledon and Wandsworth

Book your free trial class!

Extra 10% discount on Cricket Dynamics kit and equipment using the code CD10OFF.

Email: trichardson@littlekickers.co.uk Tel: 020 8675 1155 Website: www.LittleKickers.co.uk

Also Holiday courses.

Offer expires 31st January 2019

1:1 Coaching Equipment manufacturer

info@cricketdynamics.co.uk

Follow us @cricketdynamics

07946 559 572

www.cricketdynamics.co.uk

Like us /cricketdynamics

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Guitar tuition in your own home Saturday guitar lessons Sean Flood DipLCM(TD) RGT@LCM tutor Learn Rock, Pop, Blues, Jazz and Folk Grades, music Theory/Reading Contact Sean on 07932 723010/ 0208 764 6705 seanflood01@gmail.com • www.seanguitartuition.com

40 Families South West • January/February 2019

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February Half-term activities Compiled by Joanna parry

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

Chelsea FC Soccer School

Sport Role Models

All Star Tennis dwallace@wildlondon.org.uk

Developing Skills

Spark4Kids Venues TBC 020 8090 1444 www.spark4kids.com 18-22 February Holiday Computer Coding Workshops This half term, Spark4Kids are running holiday workshops to introduce kids and teens to computer coding through the medium of games. Choose from updated courses including Minecraft Modding, Roblox Coding, Tech 4 Little Kids, Games Coding 4 Kids, Robotics 4 Kids, Unity/C#, Robotics, Games Design, MicroBit, Python, HTML/CSS and JavaScript in a fun, engaging environment.

Ages 5-7 years, 8-12 years and 1318 years. Visit their website for more details.

Naomi Martin Touch Typing Sinclair House School, 59 Fulham High Street SW6 3JJ 07949 204553, www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk Throughout February Half Term Touch Typing Courses for children aged 7-18, classes are 90 minutes long, and of mixed age and ability.

Sibling discounts available, 9.3011am or 11.30am-1pm, £250 for the week.

familiesonline.co.uk

Role Models Day Courses Chelsea Academy School SW10 0AB 020 3637 7107 www.rolemodels.me, info@rolemodels.me 18-21 February Resilience Course – Celebrating China Role Models have partnered with Dragons Teaching to offer a course which helps develop resilience and also explores Chinese culture and language. Learning to step outside of your comfort zone, try things for the first time and challenge yourself are all important ways of applying resilience. Age 7-11, £395, sibling discounts are available.

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 18-22 February February Half Term Tennis Camps Join the award winning All Star team for their February holiday camps for players of all levels. All Star Tennis award winning camps are renowned for their fun and creative approach to learning tennis. Packed with games, drills, tennis technique, match preparation, fun tournaments, trick shots, prizes and team games. 5-7 years, 10am-1pm, 8-12 years, 10am-3pm.

Venues across SW London 020 7957 8220 londondevelopment@chelseafc.co m / soccerschools@chelseafc.com www.chelseafc.com/foundation / www.chelseasoccerschools.co.uk 18-22 February London Soccer School For boys and girls aged 4-13. All abilities welcome, times vary according to course, from £30.

Fulham FC Foundation Venues in Fulham 0870 442 5432, holidaycourses@fulhamfc.com www.fulhamsoccerschools.com 18-22 February Holiday Courses Soccer schools run every day, 9am to 3pm. Play tons of football, learn new skills and make lots of new friends.

Taking place at Fulham FC’s continued on p.42

To advertise in

Families

Call: 0208 696 9680

Playball

January/February 2019 • Families South West 41

Perform

Swimway

Training Ground in Motspur Park, Bishops Park in Fulham, Dundonald Rec in Wimbledon and other venues across South West London.

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

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

18-22 February February Half Term Gym Don’t miss out on the opportunity to join these popular classes for children of all ages. The programme focuses on building new skills and

developing confidence while the kids have loads of fun.

SwimWay Balham, East Sheen, Putney, Kensington, Kew Gardens and Wimbledon 020 8871 3972, info@swimway.co.uk www.swimway.co.uk 18-22 February Swimming Courses Intensive courses to improve your child’s swimming technique, on a private or semi-private basis. Courses run for half an hour each day, book early to avoid disappointment. Age 3-9, dates and times dependent on venue.

S W Swimming School Emanuel School SW11 1HS Burntwood School, Tooting SW17 0AQ 0208 767 2723, operations@swswimschool.co.uk www.swswimschool.co.uk 18-22 February Intensive Courses A 4- or 5-day intensive splash courses where children swim everyday with same instructor. All lessons are 30 minutes each day, running between 9am-12pm Monday to Friday.

Youngstars Multi-Sports and Activity Camp Balham, Clapham Common, Clapham Junction, Putney and Wimbledon 07749 343116, info@young-stars.co.uk www.young-stars.co.uk

18-22 February February Half Term Camps Plenty of fun, games and excitement whilst kids are introduced to all aspects of sports in an all inclusive and non-competitive environment.

Guaranteed fun! 3-10 years, times and prices vary.

child enjoys every minute as they work towards a show-stopping performance of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe to delight family and friends. Ages 4-10, 10am-3pm, price from £206 depending on venue.

Polka Theatre Drop off at Multi Sports camp Every school holiday including 1822 February and 1-19 april at Dulwich College Sports Club E21, www.holidaydropoff.com Your children will have a blast at HDO's fantastic multi-sports camps. Children from age 5+ can take part in a whole range of incredible indoor and outdoor sports to keep them happy and active through the school holidays, including swimming pool inflatable sessions and many new exciting activities www.holidaydropoff.com.

music & Drama Dantastic Across SW London including Southfields Library, Sindbads Raynes Park and Corfield Centre, Streatham 07460 222003 www.dantasticproductions.com/classes

Dates in February Half Term Baby and Toddler Classes Action packed, interactive musical adventure classes aimed to inspire, educate, build confidence and improve fitness. Expecting plenty of singing, dancing, puppets, instruments and sensory activities.

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

240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com 18-22 February Half Term Holiday Workshops A range of exciting holiday workshops for budding actors, directors, designers and costume makers. Age 2 upwards, dates, times and ages vary depending on workshop.

Sparks Ignite Broomwood Hall School, Nightingale Lane, Balham SW12 8NR 020 71019329 www.sparks-ignite.com/balham 18-22 February The Scene of the Crime Make a thrilling murder mystery movie, explore new creative skills in movie production, meet new friends and produce a dramatic movie to be proud of. Over three days, movie makers will explore lots of techniques to build suspense, along with mystery plot twists, red herrings and plenty of ‘CSI’ details to help catch the criminals. Age 714, 9am-3pm, £165.

Perform Drama Chelsea, Clapham South and Kensington 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk 18-20 February The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe With a sprinkle of fairy dust, Perform’s team of skilled actors, musicians and dancers will work their magic to ensure your

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Kids En Cuisine

The Strings Club Tooting Primary School, Franciscan Road, Tooting SW17 8HE 0121 296 9204 www.thestringsclub.org 18-22 February February Half Term Camp Discover Days or Week Long Courses - each day with The Strings Club is wonderfully different, including exciting creative workshops alongside high quality small group instrumental sessions.

Fully Ofsted registered, all children aged 4-11 are able to attend for the whole day. Half days from £20, early bird and late club £5.

arts & Crafts Kids En Cuisine Venues across SW London 020 3015 2966 www.kidsencuisine.com 18-22 February Cookery Camp Learn about healthy food by cooking real dishes with vegetables, fruits, aromatic herbs and spices. Join the team at Whole Food Market, Planet Organic, As Nature Intended, in their purpose-built kitchen in the heart of Westminster or they can even come to you with all the kitchen utensils you need to have lots of fun!

Little House of Science Baden Powell House, 65-67 Queen's Gate, Kensington SW7 5JS

0800 092 1062, info@littlehouseofscience.com www.littlehouseofscience.com 18-22 February Half Term Holiday Camp – Scientific Story of our Planet Take a scientific journey from Big Bang to the modern times and the future of human existence. Find out about stellar explosions and the formation of the solar system, while developing scientific understanding of the earth and other planets’ geological structure and natural processes. Do rocks have a life cycle? How will our planet look in 10,000 years? Will we inhabit other planets? Ages 412yrs.

Eddie Catz Putney, Wimbledon and Earlsfield First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street SW15 1SF 42 Station Road SW19 2LP 279 Magdalen Road SW18 3NZ 0203 4755268 eddiecatz.com Throughout February Half Term Holiday Activities Across the 3 branches in SW London – Putney, Earlsfield and Wimbledon Colliers Wood – there will be plenty of holiday camps, creative workshops and parties to choose from. See www.eddiecatz.com for more information and to book online.

Prices usually include lunch and a free play at the venue, plus Eddie Catz appears in all venues twice a day to meet and greet the children.

Little House of Science

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January/February 2019 • Families South West 43

Personally selected places where both parents and children have a real break

by Sian williams of baby Friendly boltholes Thanks to a former career in luxury travel PR and a well-formed boutique hotel habit, I am a self-confessed spoilt brat when it comes to holidays and mini-breaks.

Just because junior loves doing the macarena with the hotel’s mascot, you won’t find me propping up the bar in a package holiday hotel… well, not unless I am sobbing into my Sauvignon! Luckily, my spoilt tendencies and travel writer contacts ended up coming in very useful and, by the time my own little one had turned one, I’d set up www.BabyFriendlyBoltholes.co.uk and was sharing my best finds.

Caserio del Mirador, Spain

J

ust over a decade and a ton of feedback from grateful parents later, I’ve learnt more than a thing or two about family holiday game changers i.e. what can take a holiday from “more stressful than staying at home” to “memorably marvellous” — and why.

Here are my best finds: Without doubt, the best loved luxury resort hotel has to be Martinhal Sagres in Portugal, followed closely by Domes of Elounda in Greece. Both have interiors to rival a boutique hotel but a fun and friendly approach for little ones. Parents always tell me how, as well as the stylish little play areas and pools, what they love most is the simple pleasure of being able to linger over an evening meal or glass of wine whilst the offspring are nipping to the supervised craft or toy tables found at every restaurant or bar within the resort. Such a stroke of genius and clearly inspired by the

44 Families South West • January/February 2019

personal experience of the Stern family who founded the resort.

For those who prefer a more ‘local’ experience on holiday, we’ve found an abundance of gorgeous Italian, Spanish and France farmhouse villa, cottage or apartment clusters that are well set up, not just with nursery kit and toys, but play areas with sociable seating so parents can share tips and advice over drinks whilst mini guests make holiday playmates. Many of the best loved are run by British ex-pat families who understand it is no mean feat to truly relax on a holiday with under-10s in tow and have put everything in place to make that happen. indulge in a mini-break Having discovered the hard way just how challenging it can be to keep little ones from climbing the walls on rainy weekends, I have

found salvation in the form of mini-breaks to brilliant little cottage clusters. The ones on Baby Friendly Boltholes are all beautifully designed but also have onsite indoor pools, soft play zones, games rooms and, at some, daily animal feeding rounds. So rather than dreading a weekend of wracking our brains on how we can burn off excess toddler energy, whilst maintaining our sanity, we’ve been looking at making amazing memories and really bonding, even in the worse the British weather has thrown at us!

Here and overseas, everyone involved in Baby Friendly Boltholes is just so passionate about making sure families make the best memories in their free time. Just drop Juliet, Tori or Sian a line via email or the LiveChat system at www.babyfriendlyboltholes.co.uk and they will personally help you find the best break possible.

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Travel

Holidays with a difference

by Claire winter Are you fed up with package or resortbased holidays? Why not try some of these quirky suggestions for a short break or alternative summer holiday destination.

Little Wowo

Go glamping with your under 5s

Italian villa with child friendly activities

little wowo is a family campsite in the heart of Sussex offering an adventure for the whole family.

Enjoy campfires, workshops, nature’s playground, music in a tipi with Al Start from Go Kid Music, and a free bowl of our famous veggie soup with most stays. They have unique glamping options in different locations with yurts, shepherds huts, and lotus bell tents or bring your own tent and choose your pitch.

villa radicata sleeps up to 12 people, offers stunning lake and mountain views, fenced pool and garden, stair gates for little escapers, plenty of toys and baby equipment (highchairs/cots/sterilizer).

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

They host special events for families with under 5 year olds:

Little Wowo Weeks 3rd-6th June and 1st-4th July 2019.

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

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

familiesonline.co.uk

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

How about a House Swap?

Try treehouse life The Garden village in Slovenia is a beautiful eco-village of treehouses, glamping tents, Finnish sauna, massage pavillion and a garden, which supplies the on-site restaurant with fruit and vegetables. The tree houses are raised cabins with two levels and have indoor nets to lounge about on, kitchenettes and bathrooms. The wooden-floor pier tents are by a stream and

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

fishpond, while glamping tents have a mezzanine level, bathrooms, TV and hot tub.

Lake Bled, which offers a vast array of activities, is just a short walk away. Treehouses are expensive in peak season (€360 a night) but tree tents which sleep four and have shared bathrooms/toilet facilities, are less at €260 a night. www.gardenvillagebled.com

A house swap can be a great way of exploring the world and cutting holiday costs. You lend your home to another family, while you live in theirs. All you have to do is buy your flights or ferry ticket. You do need to clean and tidy your home so another family can live it.

You also have to empty some cupboards and drawers for their clothes and leave a manual about

the house. You can negotiate to swap cars and look after each other's pets too.

Try love Home Swap (www.lovehomeswap.com) or Home exchange (www.homeexchange.com).

January/February 2019 • Families South West 45

best for babies and toddlers princesa Yaiza, lanzarote Children will love the exceptionally family-friendly Princesa Yaiza which is ideal for year-round sun. Located in an excellent location in Playa Blanca on a wide sandy beach, within walking distance of local restaurants in the old town or the modern marina, along a lovely promenade, perfect for pushchairs. Its family facilities include a mini-disco and musical shows which will leave you hurrying your dinner so your little ones can get to them. Kids’ club here is superb in the form of Kikoland, a 10,000m² children’s playground area, with an extensive programme for tiny babies (with a professional creche) to teenagers.

Travel Promotion best for relaxing Columbia beach resort, Cyprus This charming resort has recently been refurbished and is located in a stunning location in a beautiful Blue Flag beach bay, within easy walking distance of local shops and restaurants. The 80m swimming pool is truly tranquil and there’s a great spa and kid’s club. The charming and typically Cypriot village of Pissouri, with its old square, is only a five-minute taxi away.

Must-travel

DESTINATIONS

Melissa Barker, Owner of Travelbeam Luxury Holidays, shares her family favourites and what makes them stand out from the crowd. best for multi-generational families pine Cliffs, portugal

The range of self-catering accommodation at this resort is perfect for grandparents and their families who are travelling together. The Pine Cliffs Residences (which can sleep up to 8) are luxury self-catering luxury apartments with a living room, fully equipped kitchen and a laundry room. You can enjoy all the facilities of this extensive resort such as fabulous children’s facilities (huge kids’ club village with pirate adventure playground), plenty of dining options, a fantastic beach and there’s a golf course and spa for the grandparents. New this year is a football academy with coaching by Andy Cole and John Barnes.

best for luxury all-inclusive - ikos resorts, Greece & Spain

best new hotel - parklane, a luxury collection resort & Spa, Cyprus

These popular resorts are selling out even before they are built! IKOS Aria in Kos opens this May. On offer are gourmet restaurants, fine wines/ branded spirits, 24-hour room service with entertainment and some water sports activities such kayaking all part of the cost. IKOS Andalusia in Spain opens May in 2020 and is available to book now.

This new beachfront property, only 15 minutes from Limassol, opens this April after huge investment. We were very impressed with the level of finish and quality when we visited. There’s a large sandy beach and an amazing Park Kidz children’s club with outdoor splash pool.

Do get in touch to discuss your holiday plans: or to order a copy of our new brochure: 0345 845 0145 | www.travelbeam.co.uk

what’s on January & February 2019

if you only do one thing this month…

FREE community event Take the children and have a walk in the dark!

window wanderland Around Southfields Grid and surrounding area 9-10 February We love this idea! The aim is to transform the streets of Southfields into a magical outdoor art gallery for all to see with cut out designs in the windows. Taking part is Free and everyone in the community is welcome. Simply go for a walk and enjoy the efforts of the local people.

Residents are encouraged to make a display in the windows of their house, business, shop or even front garden. Alternatively, they might stage a performance in their front room, host karaoke in their front garden or project something fantastic onto their building.

5.30-9pm. Find out more at windowwanderlandsouthfields@gmail.com or www.windowwanderland.com/event/southfields-london-2019

Diary Dates ...

animated adventures... let your imaginations take flight! 11.30am.

Can You Foster?

Mum2mum Markets www.mum2mummarket.co.uk 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.

19 January At Ricards Lodge High School, Wimbledon. 10am-12pm 19 January At Immanuel and St Andrew's Church, 452 Streatham High Road SW16 3PY. 3.30-5.30pm

The Big Garden Birdwatch ww2.rspb.org.uk Sat 26 – mon 28 Jan Get your garden ready and be part of something HUGE! The Big Garden Birdwatch is the world's largest wildlife survey – all you need to do is register then count the birds you see in your garden or local park.

Day out on the Cutty Sark www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Save 10% by booking online.

Throughout January and February Calling all sailors! Bring the family to Cutty Sark in Greenwich for an action-packed day out on the

fastest ship of its time. Meet characters from the ship’s past such as Captain Woodget and the ship’s cook and listen to their epic stories about life on board. Try and outwit the crew in our Sailors’ Challenge game, get your sea legs by taking the helm at the ship's wheel, follow a family trail or take part in regular workshops.

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

26 January Funday Preview: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.

Everyone’s favourite boy-dragon duo, Hiccup and Toothless, must travel to find a hidden world, long dismissed as a myth. Join in a Q&A with director Dean DeBlois and producer Brad Lewis, bring your little ones along to the dragoninspired arts and crafts area, and be in with a chance to win some fangtastic prizes. Create firebreathing creatures, dragon masks,

48 Families South West • January/February 2019

Venues in Wandsworth www.wandsworth.gov.uk 17 January, 14 February and 21 march Caring for someone else’s child is hard work, but the rewards are unbeatable. 10am-12noon, 2-4pm or 6-8pm. Find out more about fostering at one of these events.

Go to the website or call 020 8871 6666 to find out more.

Fulham Palace Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org 19 January Young Archaeologists’ Club.

Explore the wealth of archaeology at Fulham Palace and discover the past through investigating artefacts and exploring the world around you. Age 8-16, 10.30am-12.15pm.

LSO Family Concert Barbican Centre www.barbican.org.uk 27 January Folksong & Fantasy. Experience the spectacle of a live symphony orchestra with your family and be captivated by traditional tunes and tales of yore. The stories hail from the sparkling skies and icy mountains of northern lands, including Catch the Wind – a tale of elves and dragons all the way from the Faroe Islands. Age 7-12.

23 February Barbican OpenFest. Free and for all ages, the day will showcase works from Sky Arts’ Art 50 which invites artists of all kinds, from all walks of life, from all artistic genres, to create a piece of work which says something important about national identity in 2019. Celebrate the diversity and creativity of a nation through dance, music, photography and film.

Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave www.bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk 3 February at The Amersham Arms, 114 New Cross Rd SE14 6TY 26 January at the V&A Museum of Childhood World famous, award-winning, Glastonbury Festival performing, offers family fun for the post-rave generation of parents. The multisensory dance floor has glitter cannons, bubbles, giant balloons and a parachute dance finale.

Captain Cookie Craft tables with giant mural, themed crafts and playdoh table. There's a licensed bar, free transfers and glowsticks.

Optional fancy dress encouraged.

Check online for price and times.

Pre-walking infants free.

Chinese New Year Chinatown and Trafalgar Square 10 February Join London's Chinese New Year celebrations, the largest outside Asia, with colourful parades, performances and displays. Watch familiesonline.co.uk

colourful floats and more than 50 teams take part in the vibrant Chinese New Year parade, which kicks off with dragon and lion dances and handcrafted floats. The fun includes screen shows and a thanksgiving ceremony, followed by firecrackers, speeches and the Lions’ Eye-Dotting Ceremony.

The Baby Show ExCeL www.thebabyshow.co.uk/excel 1-3 march The UK's largest event for parentsto-be, new parents, grandparents and babies is a unique familyfriendly shopping and advice experience. Expert speakers give advice on sleep, birth, breastfeeding, weaning, health and wellbeing as well as celebrities sharing their experiences of parenthood. Save money and time with leading baby brands all under one roof, plus boutique, not on the high street products and tons of exclusive show offers.

THeaTre

Leicester Square Theatre www.leicestersquaretheatre.com 19 and 20 February.

Alice in Wonderland. Let's All Dance returns with this fabulous family favourite. Join Alice as she enters the curiouser and curiouser world of the White Rabbit, Queen of Hearts and Mad Hatter.

Stunning dancing, much loved characters and super costumes bring the famous tale to life in this magical ballet production. Suitable for all, especially 2-11 year olds, including children with special needs. Tickets £21.50 children, £24 adults

Lyric Hammersmith W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 19 February – 16 march The Animals and Children Took to the Streets. Like a graphic novel burst into life, 1927 invites you on a theatrical journey of startling originality. Seamlessly synchronising live music, performance and storytelling with stunning film and animation. From £10.

New Wimbledon Theatre Cambridge Theatre WC2H 9HU uk.matildathemusical.com Throughout January and February 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 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk SW19 2RD To 27 January Jack and the Beanstalk. Jack is in big trouble when he comes home with a pocket full of magic beans instead of gold in return for his cow, Daisy. Furious, Jack’s Mum throws the worthless beans into the garden, but overnight the tallest bean stalk you’ve ever seen grows into the clouds…

Saturdays and Sundays 9 February – 14 april Beauty and the Beast. Many years ago a wicked witch put a spell on an arrogant young prince, turning him into a hideous Beast. The spell can only be broken if the Beast learns to love and be loved in return, before a magical rose loses its final petal.

2pm and 4pm, from £10. familiesonline.co.uk

SW19 1QG atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre 31 January – 2 February Russian State Ballet of Siberia.

Performances include Cinderella the world’s favourite rags to riches fairy-tale where dreams can come true is a magical mix of Prokofiev’s energetic score, lively choreography and colourful costumes.

18-23 February Fame The Musical. Based on the 1980 phenomenal pop culture film, this international smash hit sensation follows the lives of students at New York’s High School For The Performing Arts as they navigate their way through the highs and lows, the romances and the heartbreaks and the ultimate elation of life.

4-5 march Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom.

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

Holly is a young Fairy Princess who is still learning how to fly and her magic doesn’t always go quite according to plan. Her best friend, Ben the Elf, doesn’t have wings and he doesn’t do magic, but he runs very fast and flies on the back of

Gaston the Ladybird. They live in the Little Kingdom, a tiny land where flowers and grass rise high above them and every day is an adventure.

Piccadilly Theatre W1D 7DY www.piccadilly.londontheatres.co.uk

To 23 February The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. After huge success around the world, including an extended run in London’s West End, the National Theatre’s stunning production of Simon Stephen’s play returns.

Directed by War Horse’s Marianne Elliot, the story follows young Christopher Boone as he goes on an adventure to discover just what happened to his neighbour’s dog.

Peacock Theatre WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com / www.peacocktheatre.com 20 February – 9 march Cirque Eloize - Hotel. Celebrating their 25th anniversary, Canadian contemporary circus crew Cirque Éloize open the doors to their new show. In an art deco grand hotel, tourists and travellers, the famous and infamous, mingle in the 1920s, stopping over in the 1970s and 2040. Sneak behind closed doors to witness their intimate stories, guided by the time-spinning groom and the artful maître d’hôtel.

Polka Theatre SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com To 17 Feb The Wind in the Willows. When Mole abandons spring cleaning for the delights of the riverbank, he has no idea of the adventures that lie ahead. With Toad’s obsession for all things fast causing chaos (poop, poop!), it falls upon his friends Ratty, Mole and wise old Badger to save him.

To 17 February In the Winter Wood. When Pig and Goat discover they’re being fattened up for a winter feast, they decide to run away to find a little house in the winter woods, where they can live happily together.

Along their journey they meet Goose, Hare and Cockerel, who offer their special skills to help build their new home.

It’s Hot It’s Not, Unicorn

Puppet Theatre Barge Blomfield Road (opposite 35) W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com 9 February – 24 march The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse. The two famous mouse cousins take it in turns to visit one another. First the Town Mouse goes to stay with the County Mouse and has to face up to the unfamiliar world of the wild countryside. Then, the Country Mouse heads into town and has to learn to escape from the house cat and navigate the noisy city traffic. A delight for young and old, told with rod puppets, music and sing- along songs.

Time and Leisure Studio Wimbledon SW19 1QG www.atgtickets.com 4 February and 4 march Bring Your Own Baby Comedy.

It does what it says on the tin!

22-24 February Mimi and the Mountain Dragon.

With lively original songs, atmospheric storytelling and magical puppets this is an exciting new show about friendship, courage and adventure for anyone who loves snow, dragons and stories. High up in the snowy mountains of Switzerland the villagers of Dorta bang drums, blow horns and ring the bells to keep the fearsome Mountain Dragon away.

The Unicorn Theatre SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com 26 January – 10 march Icarus. A new take on the classic myth. Here, where pleasant cottages stand colourful in the friendly village and a gentle breeze wafts through the air, children play in the square laughing and shouting – but Icarus, oldest son of the builder Daedalus, does not play with them. He sits looking out over the sea and thinks about his father.

Age 8-12.

January/February 2019 • Families South West 49

muSeumS, GallerieS aND DaYS ouT British Library

Icarus, Unicorn

2 February – 10 march It’s Hot, It’s Not. Weather the Whether. This surreal, funny and carefully crafted physical performance explores the weather in all its forms and takes delight in discovering the world anew and how we experience it differently, wherever we are. Age 2-5.

NW1 2DB www.bl.uk/events 26 February – 12 may Friendship Before Facebook. How were friends selected, collected and put on display, before the digital era? Explore the Library’s collection of pocket-sized friendship albums – made between the 16th and 19th centuries – full of celebrity autographs, music, miniature paintings and bawdy liftthe-flap pictures.

Charles Dickens Museum Kew Gardens

WC1N 2LX www.dickensmuseum.com Last Sunday of every month Highlighting the Collection. Dropin 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

50 Families South West • January/February 2019

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 16-24 February Half Term Events. A week of events, activities and workshops for the whole family including Bach to Baby, Family Poetry Workshops, Ideal Home Show and Pillow Prints.

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

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

Throughout January and February Tudor Kitchens. Last summer saw 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 now feature interactive technology and sensory experiences, so for the first time ever visitors are able to see, smell and touch their way through the process of preparing a meal fit for a king.

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

Ahoy! National Maritime Museum

familiesonline.co.uk

February – october Brick Wonders. Discover amazing wonders from around the world made entirely from LEGO® bricks.

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

London Transport Museum WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Throughout January and February Future Engineers Gallery. Families, young people and ‘big kids’ can get hands-on and have fun exploring the fascinating world of transport engineering in the new Future Engineers gallery, which opens to the public as a permanent display.

Test your skills, solve transport conundrums faced by modern day engineers, and enjoy a series of interactive exhibits.

Museum of London EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sundays in January and February 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 January and February Hands-on history. Hear incredible London stories as you touch and hold real museum objects. Age 5+, 2-4pm.

National Army Museum SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk To 3 march Call in the Cavalry. New exhibition - from flamboyant uniforms to fast horses, this exhibition looks at the shared heritage between the Hungarian and British hussars.

During the 19th century, 12 British Army regiments were retitled or created as hussars, adopting traditions established by the Hungarian hussars of the 17th century. Learn about the traditions they have developed, and the many famous cavalry charges they have taken part in. Free, drop in. familiesonline.co.uk

National Maritime Museum SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Saturdays in January and February Character Encounters. Join an exciting performance and journey bringing maritime history to life.

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

Natural History Museum SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Throughout January and February Whales Beneath the Surface. A major exhibition exploring the extraordinary life of whales.

To 24 February Life in the Dark. Are you afraid of the dark? Well, it’s the perfect time to find out. Descend into underground caves, plunge to the depths of the oceans and see what awakens in the night in this immersive exhibition. Free for children aged 16 and younger, adults from £8.50.

Fri 1 & Fri 23 February Dino Snores for Kids. This unique sleepover gives kids aged 7 to 11 the chance to explore the Museum after dark while taking part in fun and educational activities. The night begins as you set up camp in one of the Museum's spectacular galleries. Stalk the galleries as night descends and find T. rex in hidden in shadows. At midnight, it's time to settle down to sleep. In the morning, breakfast is served bright and early and you'll get to experience a live animal show before waving goodbye to the Museum when it opens to the public at 10.00.

10 February and 28 april Dawnosaurs. A free event for children on the autism spectrum, free from the hustle and bustle of the general public. Visitors have access to a wide-ranging programme of activities, including a chance to see, meet and even touch live animals. All activities are supported by experienced, autismaware facilitators. A dedicated Sensory Room is also available for those children needing a quieter and calmer space. 8-10am, ages 5 to 15 with grownups, free but book first.

the Royal Observatory Greenwich includes a show in London’s only public planetarium and the chance to look through the gigantic Great Equatorial Telescope at what the night sky has to offer. Plus, spend some time on the Greenwich Meridian with a hot drink, an amazing view and astronomers on hand to answer all your spacerelated questions. Age 7+. weekends in January and February Young Astronomers Workshop. A programme of weekend family workshops - participate in a varied range of activities related to space science and space exploration, from the International Space Station to the latest discoveries about the Solar System and the wider universe. Free, age 5+ Throughout January and February Space Safari. Follow the adventures of Ted as he searches the Solar System for the great, big bear in the sky, visiting the Sun, the Moon and the Planets. In collaboration with local schools, music and songs have been developed by Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Age 7 and under, from £5.35.

Science Museum SW7 2DD Sciencemuseum.org.uk Throughout January and February 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.

To 6 may The Sun: Living with Our Star. The sun, its beauty and power have inspired us since the dawn of civilization. Set at the centre of our

solar system, its brilliant light shapes our sense of time, our health and our environment. This is the story of humanity’s everchanging relationship with our nearest star. Free for children aged 16 and under.

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

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

To 31 march Life in the Medieval Palace. Step back 700 years and enter the Tower of London’s Medieval Palace, home of King Edward I, Hammer of the Scots. Meet characters from the past, including Edward’s new wife and Queen, Margaret of France and enjoy live drama exploring a world of chivalrous knights, troublesome lords and royal prisoners.

16 – 24 February Knight School – Defend the Tower! This February half term, become a knight and defend the Tower of London. From manners, continued on p.52

Royal Observatory Greenwich SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory 11, 12, 25 and 26 January An Evening with the Stars. The popular after dark experience at

Big Fish Little Fish

January/February 2019 • Families South West 51

What’s On etiquette and entertainment, to martial skills and fitness, learn the essential components of a Knight’s arsenal. The training culminates in a knighting ceremony, where new recruits are enlisted to defend the Tower and keep the great landmark safe from marauding invaders.

Victoria and Albert Museum Cromwell Road, Knightsbridge SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk To 24 February Videogames: Design/Play/Disrupt.

Explore the design and culture of contemporary videogames. This exhibition provides a unique insight into the design process behind a selection of groundbreaking contemporary videogames. Design work, including concept art and prototypes, feature alongside large-scale immersive installations and interactives.

V&A Museum of Childhood E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk To 20 January Dream On. An exploration of

dreams, the unconscious and an imaginary world between sleep and wakefulness. This gem of a museum houses dolls, dolls' houses, puppets, teddy bears, games, childcare, clothing, furniture and art and photography.

Everyday drop-in activities include storytelling, arts and crafts, and trails. There's dressing-up, role play and an under 3s area, an indoor sandpit, and regular special events.

Open 10am-5.45pm daily, admission free. until 22 april A Pirate’s Life for me. Enter an imaginary swashbuckling world of adventure and exploration from a moody coastal inn to a tropical treasure island in search of sparkling riches. This is the V&A Museum of Childhood's first major exhibition to focus on fictional pirates and their influence in popular culture, featuring key loans from the V&A collections, including toys, games, books, real pirate coins and treasures and more, spanning over 300 years. At its heart, a large-scale pirate ship inspires learning through active play. Admission

52 Families South West • January/February 2019

Image Festival

arT aCTiviTieS

free.

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

Art Makers Horniman Museum and Gardens SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Saturdays in January and February 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+.

Family Activities V & A Museum SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk/families Throughout January and February 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.

Drop In Family Sundays National Portrait Gallery WC2H 0HE www.npg.org.uk every third Sunday of the month These are great for any raining afternoon! Drop-in with children aged 3+ to take part in portraitrelated events. Free.

familiesonline.co.uk

The Little Draw

BABIES AND TODDLERS

The Wallace Collection W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org First Sunday of the month 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.

Free drop-in activities for all ages Sir John Soane’s Museum WC2A 3PB www.soane.org This magical, mysterious museum encourages young visitors to explore Soane's treasures and develop new skills with specialist guidance. Sir John Soane (17531837) was an inveterate collector, filling every nook and cranny of his beautiful home with items that fascinated him. He intended that after his death both his house and its extraordinary contents should be used to educate and inspire.

Free drop-in activities run on the third Saturday of every month, with activities for all ages and families can take part together from 1.304.40pm.

Family Sundays The National Gallery WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk every Sunday in January and February Another great place to spend a rainy Sunday afternoon. Art activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 2pm, age 5-11, free.

Family Friendly Art Activities Tate Modern SE1 9TG www.tate.org.uk Throughout January and February A range of free arty and crafty workshops, see website for details.

Free.

Creative art workshops Dulwich Picture Gallery 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.

familiesonline.co.uk

Toddler Time

Imagine Children’s Festival Southbank Centre www.southbankcentre.co.uk 13-24 February It’s the largest festival of its kind, dedicated to art and culture for children and families. Download the programme from the website, here is a taster of some of the events running: Have fun drawing on the Giant chalkboard, hop, jump, skip on the outdoor games, play an immersive musical instrument in the activity soundpit, join Hippity Hop the multi-sensory musical, snuggle up and rediscover the joy of bedtime stories, Scream with laughter with your baby, interact with Peppa Pig in My First Concert, join children’s songwriter Al Start for an hour of original songs, warm up your body and mind with a musical morning boost with activity music time, enjoy face painting with Glitterbox.

Escape to the seaside with a musical story based on the popular children’s book The Singing Mermaid, join former Children’s Laureates Jacqueline Wilson, Malorie Blackman and Chris Riddell for a glimpse behind the scenes of the League of Laureates, Hip-Hop dance workshop for kids with Little Groovers, Voyage to the stars with the author and illustrator of children’s book The Skies Above My Eyes. Spend a whole day of music making totally free with Chineke.

Cutty Sark King William Walk SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark every wednesday in January and February Bring your little sailors along for songs, stories and playtime on board. 10-11am, age under 4.

Storytelling Horniman Museum and Gardens 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk every Sunday in January and February 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 January and February Busy Bees. Lively sessions for under-5s. Activities include storytelling, art and craft and outdoor play. Free.

Dates in January and February Hands on Base: Family Activities.

Each week these fun family sessions will explore a different theme using objects from our Handling Collection, from flying animals to musical instruments.

Age 3+, free, 11am, 11.45am and 12.30pm.

Music at the Southbank Centre SE1 www.southbankcentre.co.uk Dates in January and February Rug Rhymes. A short session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories. Times vary. continued on p.54

There are so many events we can’t list them all!

Sing alongs, rug rhymes, storytelling, illustration workshops, free performances, We are going on a Bear Hunt performance, drum, sign. meet authors phew.. there is much much more. Don’t miss it!

Many FREE activities.

January/February 2019 • Families South West 53

BABIES AND TODDLERS that includes trails, arty workshops, songs and stories. 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2pm.

Toddler group

©Bach to Baby, Alejandro Tamagno photographer

Lots happening for babies at The Graveney and Meadow SW17 9NA www.graveneyandmeadow.com wednesdays in January and February Kids’ and toddlers’ arts and craft classes. See website for details.

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

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

Comedy at The Bedford Pub 77 Bedford Hill SW12 9HD www.thebedford.com Tuesdays and Fridays in January and February Baby Sensory classes and Pram Chorus. See website for details. Plus, they are running dance classes during October half term 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

BYOB Comedy Clapham, East Dulwich, Teddington, Putney, Tooting www.byobcomedy.com Dates in January and February 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.

Play at the Unicorn Theatre SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com Saturdays in January and February Up Club. Join the Unicorn Play Club most Saturdays for free drop-in activities from portrait painting and potato printing to giant rocket making and more. 12noon - 2pm.

Singing Mamas Choir South London Liberal Synagogue, Streatham / The Half Moon (Workshop Room), Herne Hill www.singingmamaschoir.com Tuesdays and wednesdays in January and February, 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.

Play Tuesdays

Pram Chorus

National Maritime Museum SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Tuesdays in January and February Embark on a museum adventure

54 Families South West • January/February 2019

Museum of London EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk wednesdays in January and February 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.

Do-Re-Mi Babies Concerts Barnes, Chelsea, Fulham, Wandsworth www.doremibabies.co.uk Dates throughout January and February 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.

Crafts at Morden Hall Park SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk every monday in January and February 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.

Become a Palace Explorer Fulham Palace SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org mondays and Tuesdays in January and February 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.

Explore Hampton Court Palace KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace every Thursday and Saturday in January and February Tiny Explorers. Explore and play in the Palace together. Discover the stories of Hampton Court 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.

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

Check out baby friendly events at

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

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

Storytelling and Music Sessions The Royal Albert Hall SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com Tuesdays and wednesdays in January and February 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.

Tara Arts SW18 www.tara-arts.com Throughout January and February Children’s Classes. A range of children's classes, parent and baby shows, Froggy's Famous Fanclub, Baby Broadway and Bring Your Own Baby Comedy.

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