Families London SW June 2017 issue 267

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South West June 2017 Your FREE guide to what's on for children

Party guide Summer activities Campaign for playstreets 26 YEARS

REALLY USEFUL INFORMATION FOR PARENTS OF 0-12+ YEAR OLDS IN SW LONDON CHECK OUT OUR HYPER LOCAL WEBSITE ! WWW.FAMILIESONLINE.CO.UK

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Contents Don't miss our

PARTIES FEATURE! see pages 18-23

Perform Parties

Families SW|Issue 267 ®

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Local news

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Families Top Five activities this month

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Local parents demand fair funding for schools Local education news

NEWS: news@familiesSW.co.uk

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Why children need playstreets

ADVERTS/ARTWORK: adverts@familiesSW.co.uk

14-17 Book ahead for your Clubs and Classes

EVENTS, DIARY DATES, WHAT’S ON: whatson@familiesSW.co.uk

18-23 Parties Feature The best entertainers, magicians and party shops around

WEBSITE: www.familiesonline.co.uk TEL: 020 8696 9680 EDITORIAL: editor@familiesSW.co.uk

NEXT ISSUE: July/August 2017 DEADLINE: Early June 2017 ISSN 1354-9553 All content ©Families SW 2017

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All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. • Printed by OSC Print, Middlesex • Designed by Shirley Trimmer • We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

• Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources.

24-26 LEARNING TO SWIM Swim with skill Swimming rocks Staying safe around water this summer Why invest in private swimming lessons 27-35 SUMMER ACTIVITIES Arts & craft, music, dance, coding, SEN, Sports and more 35

FREE activities

36-42 What’s On Diary dates Events Babies and toddlers Theatre Art activities Museums & Exhibitions Special Needs 43

Will you go Camping, Glamping or Pausing?

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NEWS Spotlight on

GET RUNNING LEARN HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR CHILDREN BY LEAVING THE PAST BEHIND Do you sometimes wonder whether you’re turning into your mother or father? Do you hear yourself saying things that were said to you when you were growing up? Do you look at your partner and worry that your parenting styles are miles apart? Who taught you how to parent?

Using techniques from the internationally-acclaimed self-development course The Hoffman Process, these new parenting workshops offer support and guidance to create harmony at home or at school.

In order to be fully present to your child’s needs it’s important that you understand more about your own childhood. These workshops help you unpack the past, address the negative and positive aspects of your own upbringing and learn tools to become more present to the wants and needs of the children who you care for.

Local people in Roehampton are invited to join a free running club for beginners, which sets off from outside Café Joy on Danebury Avenue at 5.45pm on Tuesdays. Part of the new sport and physical activities initiative Get Out Get Active to support disabled and non-disabled people to enjoy being active together, the scheme includes a beginners running club, plus netball training, rave fitness and junior non-contact kickboxing. For more information contact Emma Toft, Sport and Physical Activity Officer on 07766361288 or etoft@enablelc.org

Hoffman are now in their 50th year and their workshops are recommended by parents, carers, teachers and health professionals around the world.

Unless you are aware of your own behaviours, you’re likely to pass them on to the next generation...

Saturday 24 June 2017 10am- 5pm, 30 Beauchamp Road, London SW11 1PQ.

Bookings: 01903 88 99 90 info@hoffmaninstitute.co.uk www.hoffmaninstitute.co.uk/parenting-workshops

PRESTIGIOUS AWARD FOR BEATRIX POTTER PRIMARY

PEDAL POWER AND FOOD RECYCLING

Staff, pupils and parents at Beatrix Potter Primary School in Earlsfield are celebrating being awarded the highest level for their work as a Rights Respecting School by children's charity UNICEF. The UNICEF report praised the enthusiasm, confidence and friendliness of the children and the caring relationships between staff and pupils, commenting 'the school has a very strong focus on learning about kindness.’

Staff and pupils at Beatrix Potter are particularly delighted because the school was initially being assessed for a Level 1 award, however when the Unicef assessors saw the level of commitment given to respecting children rights, the school achieved a level 2 - making it just the second school to jump straight to the highest level. Deputy headteacher, Sharon Gleed-Smith: 'It was very heartening to see how the children are able to communicate their views so confidently and for them to be able to affirm their understanding of their rights.' This is fantastic, well done!

Merton residents have been using pedal power to demonstrate the importance of food waste recycling. This spring, visitors to Sainsbury’s Merton were invited to get on their bike as part of an initiative by Recycle for London encouraging local residents to recycle their household food waste. Shoppers were given the opportunity to jump on a ‘smoothie bike’ that uses pedal power to drive a blender, producing fresh fruit smoothies and demonstrating the connection between green energy and food. Sounds like a great idea, as new data shows that one year’s worth of Merton’s domestic food waste could generate enough electricity to power a local primary school for up to nine years! The importance of food waste recycling is also being taught to local children across the borough in schools through initiatives such as those in Wimbledon Chase Primary School.

Beatrix Potter Primary School, Magdalen Road SW18 3ER, 020 8874 1482, www.beatrixpottersschool.com

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www.recycleforlondon.com

June 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk

NEWS DROP-IN BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ

NEW POSTAL MUSEUM London’s newest and most-anticipated attraction, The Postal Museum and Mail Rail, will be opening its doors to the public in July 2017, but tickets have gone on sale already. Celebrating all that is quirky and interesting in the history of Britain’s earliest social network, the post, the museum contains five interactive zones, leading visitors through five centuries of world-class curiosities. You can even descend into the old engineering depot and take a miniature train through its stalactite-filled tunnels! Worth a sneak peek. The Postal Museum, Phoenix Place WC1X 0DA, www.postalmuseum.org

If you are breastfeeding you might find the drop-in Breastfeeding cafe really useful. You can drop in for free support and information from qualified NCT breastfeeding counselors between 10 and 11.30am every Monday. You’ll find a relaxed and friendly environment. ALL welcome.

Open every Monday (except Bank holidays). Please arrive by 11am.

The Grove, 39 Oldridge Road, SW12 8PN balhambreastfeedingcafe@gmail.com www.grovebalham.com

THANK YOU TEACHER GIFTS With the end of term fast approaching, what better way to thank your child’s teacher or teaching assistant for helping them become a clever cookie, than by giving them a Chocolate Chip Cookie Baking Mix gift box? It comes with a choice of two fun teacher themed labels, which can be personalised with a special message.

As well as the gift boxes, Katie Bakes also produces special “Thank You” Teacher Baking Mix Kilner Jars and DIY Tea and Biscuits gift sets. Gorgeous idea.

For more information visit www.katiebakes.co.uk

LOCAL BABYSITTING EXCHANGE Childcare can be hard to find. We learn to rely on family members or formal childcare for support, but sometimes, this isn’t available. Kinnda is a babysitting exchange network that fills in the gaps when it comes to childcare. This clever app allows you to create a private childcare community of parents you trust, using a points-based referrals system.

Using a simple scheduling service, organise parents you trust to look after your children, recommend them as babysitters to other parents, or repay them by looking after their children when they need it most. Simple!

Rather than replace formal childcare support, Kinnda makes other forms of childcare more convenient, flexible and affordable for your family. Why not give it a try? www.getkinnda.com

LOOKING FOR A FLEXIBLE JOB? Local mum of three, Louise Deverell-Smith has recently launched a website offering an exciting new way for mums to find employers who offer family-friendly, flexible roles. The Daisy Chain is a free online platform for mums where they can ‘match + connect’ with employers to enhance their careers and work-life balance.

The Daisy Chain will also provide their members with helpful tips and information on being, or becoming a working Mum. Check them out at www.thedaisy-chain.com

PAINTING & DECORATING

Calling all baby Scientists!

Interior / Exterior Experienced, Reliable, Clean Fully Guaranteed / Insured FREE ADVICE & QUOTE

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

John:- James & Lamont

020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | June 2017

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FAMILIES TOP FIVE

FAMILIES TOP FIVE...

Not long now until half term, so here is our pick of the best ways to spend it with the kids.

THE BORROWERS The Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com 16 June – 20 August Arietty has lived her whole life deep beneath the floorboards, dreaming of the great outdoors. When her father Pod finally brings her upstairs to learn the tricks of borrowing, Arietty meets a human boy. But their friendship risks everything and the ‘human beans’ soon discover the borrowers’ secret world… it’s time to escape! From £10. This is Polka’s big summer show, so book now before the tickets are snapped up.

ARMOURY IN ACTION Tower of London St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london Throughout June This new family friendly exhibition reveals 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. Explore the weapons, skills and people from the Norman to Victorian period through a mix of historic objects and hands-on interactive stations, and then have a go at drawing back a bow to feel the strength and training required to shoot this powerful weapon. Friendly mouse characters guide younger children through the centuries from Norman to Victorian - it’s a truly fantastic exhibition, worth a day out and my kids loved it. Admission is included in the Tower of London prices, and don’t forget a picnic and a long walk all around the battlements of the tower before you leave!

ENCOUNTERS WITH THE TUDORS

Hampton Court Palace East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace Throughout June You are invited to join members of the court to explore the perils and intrigues of life as a Tudor. The cooks in Hampton Court’s historic kitchens will also be roasting meat for the king’s table. This is a lovely, live demonstration that is perfect for children, and you’ll really get a taste of what life was like at the time.

ADVENTURES IN MOOMINLAND

ANNIE THE MUSICAL Piccadilly Theatre, 16 Denman Street W1D 7DY www.anniewestend.com Throughout June The world’s favourite family musical makes its long-awaited return to London this May, starring comedy superstar Miranda Hart. Tickets are going fast so book yours now to see comedy megastar Miranda Hart high kicking, falling over and passing out as Miss Hannigan!

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Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Throughout June The first major exhibition devoted to The Moomins: Adventures in Moominland. This brand new immersive experience explores the internationally-recognised stories of the Moomins through the life of its author Tove Jansson. Visitors to the exhibition will travel through seven different interactive worlds that explore the inspirations behind her much-loved stories. From £12. This is a real good ‘un – don’t miss out!

June 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk

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LITTLE ANGELS NURSERY SCHOOL A Traditional Teaching Nursery - Learning through Play We are an Ofsted rated 'Good' day care nursery school.

We lay the foundation of learning where your child's interests form the base to develop their full potential. Our nursery is very homely and friendly, and staff are fully qualified with many years' experience in Early Years.

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

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

Please contact our office on 020 7274 8333. info@littleangelsbrixton.co.uk www.littleangelsbrixton.co.uk 50 Gresham Road, Brixton, SW9 7NL

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EDUCATION LOCAL PARENTS DEMAND FAIR FUNDING FOR SCHOOLS Lambeth Parents have taken their school funding battle straight to Westminster, joining parents from across the country to deliver a sack-full of postcards to the Secretary of State for Education as part of their campaign against cuts to school funding. Thousands of postcards have been signed by parents from school communities across the country, including more than 400 from Lambeth. The postcards call on the Secretary of State to honour election promises made to parents to protect school funding, on behalf of the Fair Funding for All Schools campaign.

The Fair Funding for All Schools campaign calls on all parties in the 2017 General Election to commit to addressing the massive funding gap facing schools across England, as the National Audit Office has drawn attention to the fact that schools face a £3bn shortfall by 2020, requiring them to make cuts of as much as 8%! Evidence from parents and teachers shows that this is already having an impact on schools, with many reporting the loss of staff, subject choices, specialist provision and increasing demands for parental contributions to plug gaps in school budgets.

The Fair Funding Lambeth group includes representatives from 28 schools across the borough, as Lambeth schools face a loss of £25m in funding by 2019, which is the equivalent of £743 for every child in the borough, every year.

‘Parents in Lambeth are angry that the last government failed to keep its promise to parents to protect pupil funding,’ said Fionna Martin, cofounder of the Lambeth arm of the Fair Funding for All Schools campaign.

‘We are delivering a message not just to Justine Greening but to all politicians. We want their commitment to fund our schools properly, so that every child gets the education they deserve and no child loses out.’

Jason Flemyng, a Clapham based parent and actor currently starring in Jamestown, a new production from the creators of Downton Abbey, said, ‘I’m a dad of 5 year-old twins who go to Bonneville Primary School in

Fair Funding Lambeth Deputation

Clapham. It’s a brilliant school and we’re proud of everything they achieve there but when I saw the figures that said the school was going to lose £600 of funding per child per year, the equivalent of losing seven teachers, I felt I had to get involved.’

HOW CAN YOU HELP? • Become a parent representative for the campaign at your child’s school. The campaign would particularly like to hear from parents north of the borough in Brixton, Stockwell, Clapham, Oval and Kennington. Contact fairfundinglambeth@gmail.com to find out more • Keep up to date and join the conversation online – join Facebook group Fair Funding For All Schools Lambeth or follow on Twitter @FairFundLambeth. Help to raise the profile of the campaign by tweeting about it using #schoolsjustwannahavefunds • Sign the petition - https://www.change.org/p/stop-school-fundingcuts-all-our-children-deserve-a-great-education

NEW HEAD FOR PARSONS GREEN

Local favourite White House Prep goes from strength to strength as it receives an Excellent rating from its recent ISI inspection. On top of that, White House children entered the 500 word challenge and are now delighted to announce that one of their pupils has made it through the first round, beating off 96% of the competition. Year 6 pupil Umar Syed's The Stranger has been selected from 131,798 entries to be one of the 5,000 to go to the Reading Agency for the second round of judging. We wish him all the best for the judging for the final 50!

Tim Cannell, head at The Prebendal School in Chichester has been appointed head at Parsons Green Prep. With over 25 years within the independent sector, Tim will cover Mrs Helen Stavert’s maternity leave from this September, taking on the role on a permanent basis if Helen decides not to return to the school. ‘I believe it is important to maintain and build on the ethos and vision of Parsons Green Prep,’ he says. ‘On first looking around the school I was struck by the energy, enthusiasm and engagement of the children and staff. I firmly believe that schools should be places that put the pastoral welfare at their heart as if children feel happy and secure they will rise to the challenges that are put before them and have the courage to explore the many new opportunities that PGP has to offer.’

The White House Preparatory School, 24 Thornton Road SW12 0LF, 020 8674 9514, www.whitehouseschool.com

Parsons Green Prep School, 1 Fulham Park Road SW6 4LJ, 020 7371 9009, www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

500 WORD CHALLENGE AT THE WHITE HOUSE

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | June 2017

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Picture credit: Henry Gorse/London Play

PLAY STREETS

CHILDREN NEED PLAY STREETS

By Helena Foss

Back in the seventies, or the ‘olden days’ as my ten-year-old likes to call it, I was one of those kids who played out on the street until it got dark and in all kinds of weather. For the Queen’s 1977 Silver Jubilee, the adults blocked off the road by parking a car at each end, set up trestle tables and bunting, and held a street party that continued long after my bedtime.

The exponential rise of car ownership, however, meant that by the eighties, playing out was becoming the exception rather than the norm. I remember my brother, eight years younger than me, growing up in front of the telly rather than outside. Throughout the last century, national car ownership has grown from just 8,000 to 21 million and is forecast to increase another 46% by 2031.

Some 80 per cent of public space in London is made up of streets.

Community organisation London Play believes we should reclaim these spaces for our children to play out safely. Their lottery-funded street play project began in 2008 when they organised over 100 street party events across the capital over several years. The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton helped fuel the trend and the play street movement has been building ever since.

Put simply, play streets give children the chance to play freely by blocking the street off to cars for several hours on a regular basis: weekly, fortnightly, monthly, after school or at weekends. Children enjoy the freedom to chalk the tarmac, kick a ball, cycle or scooter without having to worry about traffic.

NOT ONLY IS IT GOOD FOR CHILDREN, IT BUILDS COMMUNITY TOO Adults work together to organise the road closures. Neighbours lean on their front walls, drink tea and chat. Shy people venture out of their homes. “People are often surprised at how many children actually live in their street,” says London Play deputy director, Fiona Sutherland. “On the odd occasion when residents have been resistant, they come round when they realise it’s a relaxed way to meet their neighbours.”

“In one street, people discovered a reclusive old lady who no-one knew about before,” Fiona adds. “When she later had a fall, neighbours rallied to help and bring her meals. They told me that wouldn’t have happened without the play street initiative.”

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | June 2017

London Play is keen to establish school play streets too – on the actual road the school is on. “Our goal is for every school to set up their own after-school play street,” says Fiona, “creating a traffic exclusion zone, enhancing air quality and creating fun, outdoor play time that so many city children miss.”

HOW TO START A PLAY STREET • Chat to a few neighbours. What do they think of the idea?

• Flyer the whole street and invite everyone to a meeting. (On the street is ideal but you could also use a local school or community centre.)

• At the meeting, agree on a date and timings for your trial.

• Contact the council and ask how to go about applying for your street to be closed for the trial. In some boroughs you can do this online. It can take between four to eight weeks.

• Once the council gives the goahead, meet again with your neighbours to make a plan.

Decide what needs to be done in advance, confirm who will be around on the day and how they’ll be involved.

• Put posters up on the street to promote your play street session.

• Keep talking to your neighbours and get the children you know excited and involved. Then wait expectantly for the day to arrive. Be prepared to meet new neighbours and, maybe, even join in the fun yourself.

Need help? Contact London Play. They can offer advice, supply materials, help approach your council and maybe even help with funding.

See: www.londonplay.org.uk

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CLUBS AND CLASSES

Sparks film school

Book ahead for your Clubs and Classes It’s June, it’s the start of summer and September feels a long way off. There is a whole summer holiday ahead of us and the last thing any of us wants to think about is booking up clubs, classes and after school activities for next term. But wait! A little forward planning can save us lastminuters a lot of blood, sweat and tears further down the line, let alone some cold hard cash.

So why not join the organised early bird parents and start looking now? Check out our top tips and get it out of the way before the holidays arrive: • Some clubs and classes are extremely popular – think gymnastics and swimming lessons, especially those that are limited to certain numbers in each class – and these ones can get booked up months in advance • Many companies offer significant Early Bird discounts – sometimes as much as 20% off the full price, plus extra sibling discounts on top. Over time, this saving certainly adds up!

• Trial classes are often offered in June, or even over the summer holidays in July and August, so you can try before you buy. Sign up for as many trial classes as you can fit in and then when you book your favourite you’ll know for sure your child will enjoy the term ahead

finding a class at that hectic time and free yourself up for more interesting pastimes!

• Many schools offer extra-curricular and after-school activities and won’t send out the list until school is back in September. But ask for an early list (more often than not the timetable will already be arranged) and then you can choose your clubs at your leisure rather than join in the bun fight that can often happen during the first week of term

• September is one of the busiest times of the year for parents, especially if your child is starting a new school, so save yourself the hassle of

• Don’t forget, here are more classes than the obvious out there. In London especially there are all sorts of weird and wonderful classes and courses sprouting up, from Parkour to American Football, aerial flying fantastic to ice hockey, and sewing to cupcake baking. A little bit of research now will uncover unusual clubs that your child may love, rather than just sticking to the obvious

GET YOUR CHILD INTO ALLSORTS DRAMA

DANCE ESSENTIALS FOR A NEW DANCE YEAR

With computer games, TV and the Internet, where play is predetermined, the joys of spontaneity, originality and imagination can often be forgotten.

Whether you have a particular passion for ballet, tap, jazz, modern, contemporary or just a general love of dance itself, you can find all the back-to-dance essentials you will need for a new term of dance, right here at The Ballet Boutique in Wimbledon. They stock a wide range of local dance school uniforms and have complementary accessories including wrap cardigans, skirts, tutus, bags, hair products and much more to have you dance ready for September. They will be running an exciting competition so make sure you pop by to be in with a chance to enter. A gorgeous shop with very knowledgeable staff.

Drama, however, unlocks the imagination, improves self-esteem and boosts confidence. Drama is thrilling for children–they love creating their own imaginary worlds—but it is so much more than just this. It helps them develop important skills and abilities, including behaving socially and getting along with others in a group, empathy, communication skills and concentration.

Allsorts Drama was founded in 1992 by Sasha Leslie and Melissa Healy. It was set up to provide a platform for children to explore drama and express their individuality. Allsorts is now one of London’s most respected children’s drama schools and continues to steadily grow.

020 8969 3249, info@allsortsdrama.com www.allsortsdrama.com

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | June 2017

146 Merton Rd, London SW19 020 8540 9000 www.ballet-boutique.co.uk

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CLUBS AND CLASSES ART AND CREATIVE WRITING COURSES IN WIMBLEDON September classes are filling up!

Does your child lack confidence with Writing or Art? Katherine Smith is an Oxford graduate who offers small group classes where she creates a safe, supportive space in which children can feel happy and creative while writing, painting and drawing. She weaves writing and art techniques into themes for both courses; recently, magic, dragons, shrinking, dream worlds…"My daughter loves these classes! It’s been tremendous to watch her explore her imagination with Katherine’s help!" Rachel Fowler 07779 100 659 katherine.smith@gmail.com wwwpaintwritenow.co.uk

ONE PASS HUNDREDS OF CLASSES ToddlePass is a new membership club that lets parents book hundreds of classes for babies and toddlers with one easy pass.

ToddlePass aims to help parents spend less time scheduling and more time helping their little ones learn and grow.

ToddlePass partners with an impressive range of providers, including Gymboree, Hartbeeps, Teddy Tennis, Little Kickers, Sing and Sign, and Amanda's Action Club. There are no commitments – parents can cancel classes 24 hours in advance and cancel or pause memberships any time. Best of all, parents can save up to 50% on regular class prices.

Sign up at www.toddlepass.com

BOOK EARLY FOR YOUR SWIMMING CLASSES! SwimWay is opening the Autumn Term 2017 bookings on Monday 19th June at 12pm on a first come, first served basis. For all information regarding availability and booking instructions, please register your details with them by emailing info@swimway.co.uk or calling the office on 0208 870 3972. After-school spaces are extremely limited, and most slots are booked up within the first hour of opening the bookings.

Club Italiano CLUB ITALIANO PER BAMBINI Would you like your child to learn Italian? Club Italiano’s small Italian class meets weekly on Thursdays in Fulham. Activities are planned to suit the age group and abilities of the children. They concentrate on speaking Italian using different topics each week, including action songs and acting out.

At the end of the session they sit down with a simple worksheet to complete and to take home. Basic reading, writing and grammar skills are developed. Cost £373 yearly.

If interested call Stefania on 020 8748 6418. Ci sentiamo

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

LAMDA/Trinity exams taken.

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

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | June 2017

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PARTIES

Amelie's Bedazzled birthday

Five top tips for the perfect summer party Summer is here and Bedazzled are ready to party! They’ve been busy in the background over the winter months planning some really exciting summer parties for 2017’s sunny season. We asked them for their best party advice and they’ve come up with 5 top tips for planning the perfect summer party:

1. Choose a theme or colour scheme

4. Offer scrumptious food

Working with a theme and/or colour scheme from the start will help to focus your efforts and help the party look fantastic on the day. There are so many wonderful themes to choose from and summer gives you the chance to be creative outside. Bedazzled designs parties down to the finest detail, transforming any venue into a chosen theme. Themes can be incorporated across all elements of the party, from the invitations and party bags to the games and catering.

Summer parties mean picnics, BBQs, and beautiful buffets. Try to source your food locally and ensure there are lots of delicious goodies for the adult guests as well as the children! Bedazzled offers a wide range of nutritious party food options, from themed food-boxes and sit-down feasts to sweetie tables and the all-important cake.

2. Pick the right entertainment Engaging entertainment is key to a successful party, especially parties with large numbers or varied age groups. From themed characters, jugglers and face painters to balloon modellers and general entertainers who can host the entire party, Bedazzled’s performers are well known for not only entertaining the children but the adults too!

5. And finally, enjoy!

The most important bit of advice when planning a summer party is to enjoy it! Bedazzled takes the stress out of planning a party so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the day. Whatever the budget, we can help with as much or as little as our clients need. From booking the perfect entertainer to planning from start to finish, our dedicated team of expert event planners are full of fantastic ideas to help turn your child’s dream party into a reality.

3. Bring the party to life There are so many ways to bring a party to life, from fun games to craft activities. Another great alternative is to hire a mobile petting zoo.

Animals are such an exciting and educational addition to any party and a favourite amongst our clients.

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For more inspiration visit their website: www.bedazzledevents.co.uk or call 020 3652 5708.

June 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk

PARTIES

The best local party entertainers and magicians in town!

Keep this issue safe: this is the only one you’ll need. We have gathered entertainers, magicians, a mobile zoo, soft play centres, a putting course and party shoes plus party venues and food.

ACTION STATION Imaginative interactive storytelling parties. Choose from mermaids, witches and wizards, fairies and princesses, pirates, knights, cowboys, spies or drama parties.

Clowns, magicians, jugglers, circus skills experts, face painters, makeup artists and DJs also available.

0870 770 2705 www.theactionstation.co.uk

ADAM ANTS PARTIES Adam Ants offers high energy parties. Adam Ants and his talented team make sure their parties are non stop fun. With something for all ages: magic, balloon modelling, puppets, music, dancing, games, face painting. They also offer amazing disco/sports parties or the ever popular a Build a Bear party.

You can hire tables and chairs/bouncy castles/soft play and ball ponds. Why not invite your favourite character to the party from Mickey Mouse to Pepper Pig and many more?

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

ADVENTURE PUTTING PARTY Looking for something different in the party stakes? Why not enjoy a fun filled golf party with CLGC. Little ones will venture out onto the 9-hole Adventure Putting course for an hour, while older children can also try their swing on the enclosed driving range. When

everyone is adventured out the party continues with a sandwich, apple and drink for all. Each child will receive a certificate as well as a CLGC wristband. From £15 per child weekdays, £16.50 per child weekends (minimum of 10 children).

020 8871 2468 info@clgc.co.uk www.clgc.co.uk

ALLSORTS DRAMA FOR CHILDREN Allsorts offers fantastic original themed drama parties.

Understanding how important birthday parties are to children, they want them to have the most fabulous party ever! The parties are always a whirl of excitement, fly to the world of make believe, become a Film star, Magician or Detective. Explore the drama of murder mysteries. The only limit is your imagination!

020 8767 5298 or 020 8969 3249 www.allsortsdrama.com Allsorts also run term time classes, holiday courses and private tuition.

AMANDA’S ACTION CLUB Amanda's Action Club offers dynamic, high energy, creative and fun party entertainment for ages 1 to 7. Action Club party, Build my Bear, mini disco, pamper parties, face painting, glitter tattoos, balloon modelling and bouncy

Allsorts Drama castle hire. Why not add a little extra sparkle to their day and have a princess or meet and greet your guests?

01895 623999 info@amandasactionclub.co.uk www.amandasactionclub.co.uk

AMAZING MAGICAL PARTIES Vice President of The Magic Circle, Richard Pinner is a proper magician using strong magic to amaze and amuse children and adults alike. Drawing on 25 years of personal experience, Richard’s shows are perfect for modern children, maintaining traditional birthday party values whilst using cutting edge magic. Parties full of fun, laughter and amazement leave every child with tales to tell and special memories to keep.

020 7352 3524 Hello@MagicAndLaughter.co.uk www.MagicAndLaughter.co.uk

BATTERSEA PARK CHILDREN’S ZOO This family friendly zoo hosts fantastic kid’s parties which include a mini tour, where children find out lots of funny and foul facts about lemurs, snakes, monkeys, mice and meerkats, get to help a zookeeper to prepare an animal’s dinner, meet and stroke a rabbit, create their own animal badge and the birthday child paints a brick on The Birthday Wall of fame. Party food and goodie bags included, £29.50 per child.

020 7924 5826 www.Batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

BEDAZZLED EVENTS Bedazzled plans and creates bespoke children’s parties and events, delivering unforgettable experiences to make every occasion one to remember.

Whether you’re looking for just an entertainer or help from start to

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

www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | June 2017

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PARTIES finish, their dedicated team of event managers and designers work to your chosen budget offering outstanding entertainment and transforming any space into a perfect party venue.

020 3652 5708 www.bedazzledevents.co.uk

fantastic book based birthday parties for your children. Starting with two fantastic books ‘Gordons Great Escape’ by Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet and ‘Captain falsebeard in a very fishy tale’ by Fred Blunt they bring the stories to life through energetic and engaging entertainers. From £550.

020 7326 0210 kids@notoriousproductions.co.uk www.thebrightemporium.com

THE CREATION STATION

BLUEBERRY PLAYSONGS PARTIES Blueberry parties are lively, interactive musical parties for ages 0-5. One of their talented entertainers will play guitar and sing songs with joining in, actions, jumping games, dancing and instruments. Shaky egg maracas, parachute games and a puppet will add to the fun—perfect for little ones! A 45-minute session in London is £115.

“Blueberry is wonderful entertainment for little ones; fun, cheerful and gentle.”

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

THE BRIGHT EMPORIUM Having worked together in the past NOTORIOUS KiDS and the Bright Emporium had a spark of genius, combining both their space and their party prowess to deliver

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Give your child a fun and inspiring arty birthday party packed with hands on creative art and crafts activities to celebrate their special day and entertain their friends in style. You can relax as they provide all the fun and the party bags filled with treasured masterpieces too!

020 8419 1809 melanie@thecreationstation.co.uk www.thecreationstation.co.uk

EDDIE CATZ With three sites (Wimbledon, Putney and Earlsfield) Eddie Catz offers a fantastic variety of party packages to suit all ages and budgets. Why not hire the whole of Earlsfield venue for a real VIP treat for your birthday prince or princess? The Putney venue is ideal for children 0-7yrs, as this bright space has a gentle playframe, games, rides and dressing up. Parties can also be themed to a favourite character.

The large facilities in Wimbledon make it great fun for all ages: it has a giant playframe, a dedicated Toddler playframe, a sports pitch and a disco for older children.

They also offer Laser Tag parties at the Wimbledon venue, and parents even get a go after the final round!

As well as their popular “Eddie Party” (3-10yrs), they throw Toddler Parties for under 3s, evening Laser Tag parties (6-12 years) and the ever popular Make a Bear parties. www.eddiecatz.com

FOX LIMOUSINES Why not spice up your party by hiring a pink stretch limo from Fox! Choose from a pink Lincoln, a silver Chrysler or a white Hummer!

8406 3758 / 0844 856 5466 info@foxlimousines.co.uk www.foxlimousines.co.uk

FROGGLE PARTIES Froggle Parties are becoming one of the most popular party companies in the business and are known for their varied and high energy parties. They have a fantastic reputation for providing a huge range of party options that are fun, lively and thoroughly engaging. Parties range from entertainers, magicians, themes, discos, science parties, bubble parties, baby and toddler activities, clowns, and more. Party shop supplies, balloon decorating, free

party invites and even help with finding a venue.

020 8617 9070 enquiries@froggleparties.com www.froggleparties.com

GYMBOREE PLAY & MUSIC PUTNEY Lots of fun with zero clean up. Let them know your child’s favourite games, songs and activities and they’ll create your own tailor made event. Guaranteed to be 100% fun! Handpick from a number of themes and let their teachers create a unique, stress-free and enjoyable day to remember.

Themes include train and planes, jungle safari, ocean adventure, Beatles, Caribbean, art or sculpture parties etc.

020 8780 3831 putney@gymboree-uk.com www.gymboree-uk.com

LITTLE KICKERS Tooting, Balham, Streatham Little Kickers offers fun filled football based parties for ages 2-7.

Working closely with you, your energetic and enthusiastic Little Kickers’ Coaches will create the perfect football party. They can

Perform Parties

June 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk

PARTIES adopt your party theme and create imaginative games based on your child's favourite things – be it a swashbuckling pirate, a powerful superhero or a superstar footballer!

020 8675 1155 trichardson@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk

LITTLE HOUSE OF SCIENCE PARTIES Book an amazing science party and get 60 minutes of mind blowing scientific experiments and demonstrations, including chemical reactions, air vortexes and mini robots. The parties are for children aged 4-11 and can be held in your home or your chosen venue in London. www.littlehouseofscience.com

MAGICAL DESIGNS Magical Designs provides an excellent face painting and balloon modelling service in and around London.

Contact Susie on 07814 925 462 magicaldesigns@hotmail.co.uk www.magicaldesigns.co.uk

DOOLITTLE'S ZOOMOBILE Amanda will bring a selection of animals to your home or venue where the children can have a thoroughly hands-on experience, which is both fun and memorable.

She has worked with children and animals for many years so both will be in very safe hands. Who wouldn't love to feed Victor, the bearded dragon, feel the muscular strength of Slartibartfast, the corn snake, cuddle Willow and Hazel, the velvety Rex rabbits?

07940 177 201 doolittleszoo@gmail.com www.doozoo.co.uk

MUKI SPORTS BOOTCAMP PARTY Want to host a fun packed, original and exciting party? Keep children on the go with this 1-2 hour (or longer) workout party: paired and group fitness games, tug of war and much more. No sitting around playing the usual party games: this is not a party for the faint hearted.

07429 347538 info@mukisports.com www.mukisports.com

SKATE BOARDING PARTIES What a good idea: My Little Boarders aim to teach kids the basics of street skateboarding, whilst allowing them to learn skilful tricks, maintaining an interest in a type of exercise that is fun to do.

With highly trained instructors they tailor the party to the ability levels of the children to the rate at which they progress, and have portable equipment so can come to a venue near you. Age 5-14. All equipment provided including elbow, knee and wrist pads, helmet and skateboard.

1 hour £275 (up to 18 children) info@mylittleboarders.co.uk www.mylittleboarders.co.uk

NUTTY’S CHILDREN’S PARTIES A variety of fun-packed, exciting, dynamic, highly interactive, imaginative and original Adventure Parties, Discos, Drama Workshop Parties and more for ages 3-11. All parties are run by experienced, dedicated, professional actors and most themes can be catered for.

07884 050954 danny@nuttyschildrensparties.co.uk www.nuttyschildrensparties.co.uk

Playball parties are fun for any age

PERFORM PARTIES Perform parties are high energy, fun and totally infectious. Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s enthusiastic and energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter guaranteed to ensure every child is part of an enthralling adventure.

020 7255 9120 www.performparties.co.uk

way to add that extra special element to your parties at Polka.

The parties are an hour long and will be in a reserved area of the building. You will have a dedicated member of cafe staff and party bags.

Please contact Maxine on 8545 8330 cafe@polkatheatre.com www.polkatheatre.com

MOSAIC PARTIES PLAYBALL Chelsea, Fulham, Battersea and Clapham Playball parties can be tailor made to suit any child's fantasy, be it their favourite sport, superheroes, princesses, cowboys or space rangers. The treasure hunts are always a popular request, with missions to find wild animals and jungle creatures, underwater caves and tunnels or snake infested Crocodile Rivers!

020 8123 2217 gavin@playball-london.com www.playball-london.com/parties

POLKA THEATRE The Polka Cafe provides Children’s Tea Parties both before and after performances. These are an ideal

They will come to your house with all the materials needed to make mosaics, and talk the children through the process, guiding them and giving them pointers as they go. You can even choose a theme.

Parties are for 6-12 children, from £190. www.pricklypoppy.co.uk

RUGBY TOTS PARTIES A Rugbytots Party is a fantastically fun-filled way to celebrate your child's birthday. Parties have a great emphasis on play, plus plenty of party games and group participation. At a Rugbytots Party they'll be sure to have a ball! www.rugbytots.co.uk

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

The perfect party for little ones.

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

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PARTIES party. Choose your theme (Moana/Pirates/Popstars/Princesses /Jungle Book) and they'll make a show for family to enjoy at the end of the party. Children learn songs and routines from their chosen theme and weave them into a story. Perfect, bespoke party fun.

Stagecoach Murder Mystery Parties - Solve the mystery with your group of friends. Ideal for children aged 10+. Led by a professional actor who comes in as the detective to help unravel the drama. Scripts and props included.

07956 288928 battersea@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/parties

Nutty’s children’s parties

ROCKSTARS PARTIES Book a party to remember with these one and two hour Recording Studio parties for children (aged 7 and over). They are based in South London at a professional studio

SILLY MILLIE CLOWN PARTIES Funny magic show with giggles galore, plus Pass the Parcel, Plate Spinning, Musical Bumps and Parachute Games. And don’t forget Karaoke and lots of balloons.

07939 239397 faith@thetingle.net www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk

SINDBADS SOFT PLAY CAFE

and their experienced staff will ensure that you have a great time and end up with a recording to be proud of.

020 8767 1125 www.rockstarsparties.co.uk

Choose from Play and Eat Parties or Exclusive Private Hire. Age 0-8, includes playtime plus party food and balloons, from £10.99 per child.

0208 947 7987 www.sindbads.co.uk

STAGECOACH BATTERSEA Stagecoach Birthday Parties for 4-10 yrs - Put on a mini-show

STAGECOACH TOOTING Whether your children want to be fairies, pirates or detectives, there is a Stagecoach Party for everyone.

Something that gives that extra special shine is the children will put together a show for the parents at the end of the party. £225 for up to 15 children, £275 for up to 30 children.

020 8942 3502 tooting@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/parties

PARTY SHOPS CIRCUS CIRCUS Circus Circus in Fulham offers everything from kid's fancy dress to party accessories and balloons.

176 Wandsworth Bridge Road SW6 2UQ 020 7731 4128 www.circuscircus.co.uk

NON STOP PARTY SHOP Everything you need for a great party including balloons, fancy dress and tableware. A wellstocked and helpful store.

214-216 Kensington High Street W8 7RG 020 7937 7200 www.nonstopparty.co.uk/kensington OCCASIONS A family run party shop specialising in children’s parties, fancy dress and balloon decorating. Whether you are looking to hire their amazing popcorn machine, in need of a balloon arch or looking for Occasions’ Olaf mascot to attend your event, Occasions will fulfil your party needs, simply because they are experts at it!

27 Ebury Bridge Road SW1W 8QX 020 7730 7088 www.occasionspimlico.co.uk PARTY SUPERSTORES Just a few steps away from Britain’s busiest train station you can find one of the most beloved party shops in the neighbourhood.

Snoop around for masquerade masks, fancy dress wigs, tablecloths and tableware, balloons, novelty party goods, decorations, accessories and lots of trinkets.

268-, 274 Lavender Hill SW11 1LJ 7924 3210 www.partyshoplondon.co.uk/clapham -junction

FOX Limousines

Limousine hire for Children's Birthdays, School Proms, Tours White, Pink, Black Limousines Soft drinks and balloons for children's parties

T: 020 8406 3758 or 0844 856 5466 www.foxlimousines.co.uk info@foxlimousines.co.uk

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PARTIES

PARTY BAGS With the summer party season almost here are you looking for something different to give your party guests as a going home gift?

Award winning Katie Bakes has the answer by providing an innovative take on the traditional children’s party bags, and a delicious one at that.

Katie Bakes’ beautifully presented, personalised party bags, which come in a range of colours and themes to complement any party, contain a baking mix with all the ingredients to make Shortbread Biscuits or Double Chocolate Chip Cookies. All the mixes come with simple instructions and just require the addition of melted butter. They are also made with the highest quality ingredients including Belgian Chocolate, English flour and no artificial colours or flavourings.

Katie’s party bags are loved by adults and children alike and provide a great alternative to the usual plastic tat and sweet filled party bags.

As well as a choice of flavours, there is a choice of label designs to suit your party theme and they even offer the option of a bespoke label service. In addition, you will also receive exceptional customer service for which the company won a Venus Award in 2016. www.katie-bakes.co.uk

Win AN ADVENTURE IN THE TREE-TOPS WITH GO APE Our friends at Go Ape have given us a birthday party for eight at Go Ape Tree Top Junior. One lucky winner will take on a fun filled hour in the tree-tops with their friends (exploring the canopy, trailblazing and taking on obstacles) on our adventure specially designed for kids! If you’ve not come across them before, Go Ape is the UK’s number one forest adventure. Days out at Go Ape are about living life more adventurously, having fun with friends and family and getting in touch with your inner Tarzan (he’s in there, we promise). They offer awardwinning adventure activities for everyone. Set within 30 beautiful forests and parks, families and friends of all ages can unleash their inner Ape on their Tree Top Adventure and Tree Top Junior or explore the forest floor on all-terrain Segways.

Just answer this question: How tall do you need to be to enjoy Tree Top Junior?

1.

2.

3.

1.4m 1.0m 0.7m

Check out their web site for full details: www.goape.co.uk To be in with a chance of winning, simply email your answer to the question (just write 1, 2 or 3) to: editor@familiesSW.co.uk Closing date 30 June 2017

THE ART OF STORYTELLING NOTORiOUS KiDS are storytellers bringing to life imaginary tales and immersing children into magical worlds. If you have ever been to a NOTORiOUS KiDS party with your child you will have noticed how their amazing entertainers can engage the children from the moment they arrive, captivating them throughout the whole party as children are taken on an adventure or mission to a land unknown. Storytelling is at the core of what they do as it is their belief that allowing children to use their imaginations helps them grow in confidence as well as having huge learning benefits.

“We want to inspire imaginations and engage the creativity of the KiDS we entertain allowing them to get totally lost in our adventures and ensuring each and every child has the most magical time”.

Terms and Conditions: Only one entrant from same e-mail address or household will be accepted. No travel expenses are included with this prize Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering. Entries must be received by the closing date and proof of sending cannot be taken as proof of receipt. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries. All decisions of Families Magazine are final and no correspondence will be entered into. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other. Winners’ details (only) will be supplied to the Promoter of the competition. Families Magazine is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition. Participation and supervision ratios apply. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions. The winner is selected via a random selection process from all correct entries and contacted via the email address provided by the entrant. If the promoter does not obtain a response from the winner within 21 days, we reserve the right to select another winner at random.

If your child has a favourite story they can even bring this to life, recently collaborating with The Bright Emporium in SW11 to deliver Storybook Parties in their beautiful gallery space.

If your child has a wild imagination and loves going on adventures, then get in touch with NOTORiOUS KiDS to help make your child’s next party one to remember: 020 73260210 kids@notoriousproductions.co.uk www.notoriouskids.com

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | June 2017

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SWIMMING

Sports Generation is a high calibre swimming coaching company

SWIM WITH SKILL, SWIM WITH SPORTS GENERATION! Shared Private and Small Group Swimming Lessons for Children aged from 3 months old Sports Generation is a high calibre swimming coaching company, cofounded by Christian Kenny and Christopher Whitworth in 2012. With over 37 years’ collective experience of teaching, and running swimming companies, Christian and Christopher believe that swimming is a fundamental life skill that children should acquire as soon as possible. It is the mission of Sports Generation to turn its pupils into strong, confident swimmers with excellent technique at the earliest possible age.

Lessons are currently taught to over 1,500 children at prestigious health clubs and private residences in Richmond, Chiswick, Wimbledon, Bloomsbury, Esher and Hook. The highly experienced and fully qualified coaches all follow Sports Generation’s proven approach, enabling children to progress as powerful, happy swimmers, whilst simultaneously ensuring that lessons are both safe and productive by running them in line with the National Teaching Plan.

The SG Swim Programme is available during term time, weekdays and weekends. Intensive Holiday Courses are also available.

For a ‘No obligation trial’, or to make a booking or an enquiry, please contact the Sports Generation Bookings Team.

020 8940 9431 info@sportsgeneration.co.uk www.sportsgeneration.co.uk

SWIMMING ROCKS! Recognised as one of the leading swimming tuition company’s delivering progressive swimming lessons to over 1,000 students every week, Swimming Rocks is a premier swimming lesson provider, offering lessons to babies, children and adults in 7 venues across London.

They have a strong reputation based on effortless service and are well known for employing some of the most experienced and creative swimming instructors in London.

Lessons are delivered in luxury locations and instructors work inside the water with students to achieve the best possible progress for each and every student.

Term time and holiday crash courses throughout the year. Lessons available 7 days a week Free trial lesson for every new student. Private (1:1) and shared (2:1) lessons and small groups of 6 for babies.

To make a booking or an enquiry, please contact 07557 051 904 Info@swimmingrocks.co.uk www.swimmingrocks.co.uk

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June 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk

SWIMMING STAYING SAFE AROUND WATER THIS SUMMER With summer holiday fast approaching, families with young children will be travelling to resorts with swimming pools, sea side or lakes. Playing with water is a great way to beat the heat, however drowning at a young age is still one of the most common accidental deaths. Being able to swim is an essential life-saving skill that can help save your child’s life.

Give your child a chance to learn basic swimming skills, this will become more than just a skill for a holiday.

SWIMMING IS A HUGELY BENEFICIAL SKILL TO DEVELOP Swimming is lots of fun for people of all ages and children especially love getting in the water and enjoying themselves. Swimming is not just fun, it also provides loads of health benefits which can help to keep your children healthy and happy at the same time:

• Swimming keeps your child’s heart and lungs healthy, improves strength and flexibility, increases stamina and even improves balance and posture • Children of any age or ability can take part and it is also more accessible for children with additional needs than almost any other sport.

• Swimming provides challenges and rewards accomplishments, which helps children to become self-confident and believe in their abilities • Your child will have plenty of opportunities to make friends and grow in confidence • Learning to swim is a skill that once learnt is rarely forgotten and it is open to people of all ages. There are even swimming events for people over 100, and a few Masters swimmers who are still swimming past this age.

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | June 2017

South West Swim School instructors are fully ASA qualified and in house trained to teach within the water, allowing good demonstrations and greater input into the lesson. All teachers are carefully selected for their teaching quality, knowledge and experience.

INTENSIVE SPLASH COURSES Research has shown that swimming daily increases the rate of learning.

SWSS are running popular intensive splash courses during Summer Holidays (see the summer listings page 33 for details). All lessons are 30 minutes each day, running between 9am-12pm Monday to Friday. They are a great introduction into their term time courses for the younger beginners and a great chance to refresh what your children have learnt over term time and a chance to get ahead.

If you are interested, please call the South West Swim school on 020 8767 2723 to reserve your space. www.swswimschool.co.uk •40% discount for special needs depending on availability.

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SWIMMING WHY INVEST IN PRIVATE SWIMMING LESSONS FOR CHILDREN? Parents want the best for their children’s swimming education. If you are looking for the quickest, safest and most effective option for your child to learn how to swim, then private or semi private swimming lessons are the answer.

In large public classes, the instructor may have to split their time between 8 other students or more. That doesn’t leave much time for individual focus and attention. This also means private classes are safer because your children are supervised throughout the whole lesson. It can be frustrating for parents when their child does not receive enough attention in their classes and falls behind other students.

CHOOSE HIGHLY QUALIFIED TEACHERS SwimWay instructors are some of the most highly trained instructors in London when it comes to safety. Dan Pastor of Swimway told Families: “All our teachers participate in safety training at the start of each term which is specially produced by SwimWay for our private pool locations. Because we specialise in private or semi-private lessons, the children receive full, direct support inside the water from their teacher. This allows them to use only a kickboard as a floatation device without sacrificing any safety measures.

Other swim schools often use backpacks, shark wings and noodles, which inevitably delay the learning process.”

A good programme will work on fundamentals such as breath control, buoyancy, body position, gliding and correct leg kick action before introducing the full stroke. Students that are given the correct core elements will thrive, and become good swimmers.

If you would like to see SwimWay’s latest availability for their private swimming lessons go to www.swimway.co.uk and find your nearest pool location

Need to hire a place for a one-off event, to run a course, or a yoga class...?

Special launch price from only £20 an hour to hire

WORKSHOPS • EVENTS • MEETINGS COURSES • DINNER PARTIES ACTIVITIES • EXHIBITIONS VENUE for Families–Children–Adults

The Living Room A new venue for meetings and events on the Furzedown/Streatham border. This small-scale venue is designed to provide homely, flexible space for events, workshops,etc...

19 Thrale Road, Furzedown, London, SW16 1NS info@TheLivingRoom.Place 020 8696 9680 Social media: @LivingRoomPlace www.thelivingroom.place 26

June 2017 | 020 8696 9680 | Familiesonline.co.uk

SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR

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SUMMER LISTINGS

Book your child’s summer activities now While the children can’t wait for school to end and summer to finally start, mums are not always that eager to keep their offsprings joyfully occupied everyday and for the best part of 6 weeks!

I spent my summers at home in the country, playing freely in the fields and woods with my siblings and cousins. This may seem ideal and romantic but in truth I wish I could have participated in almost each one of the activities we list here: science camps where things explode and bubble, learning to put on a play or a dance show, I would have loved to make a film, learn to play golf, learn a language or learn to meditate and do yoga, which of course wasn’t very widely available back then!

Involve your child in the selection process, so that they know what to expect and have input into the choice.

You can tailor this process to support your child's personality, for example, a shy child may be happier in a smaller group.

Ultimately, spending time learning a new skill, make new friends, going out of one’s comfort zone is the ideal way for your child to spend some of their time during that long summer holiday. Spend some time selecting, look at each activity’s suitability, and be excited for your child for one of the most lifeenriching experiences out there.

First Hand Experiences

While not all children are comfortable with the prospect of starting a brand new activity and meeting entirely new children, the benefit of going off to camp for the average child can be a phenomenal boost to their selfesteem and independence.

Familiesonline.co.uk | 020 8696 9680 | June 2017

Cost is obviously a consideration for most families, especially when they have more than one child to pay for. Many companies offer Childcare Vouchers and in addition, they give discounts for multiple or early bookings.

It’s their holiday, so just ensure they’ll have lots of fun.

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PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU SAY WHERE YOU SAW THEM—IN “FAMILIES”

SUMMER LISTINGS

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.

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SEE MORE EVENTS IN OUR ONLINE WHAT’S ON CALENDAR

fluently and descriptively. They run holiday courses and offer private tuition in north and south London.

Compiled by Joanna Parry

ARTS AND WRITING 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 www.eddiecatz.com Throughout the Summer Holidays Summer Holiday Activities Across the 3 branches in SW London – Putney, Earlsfield and Wimbledon Colliers Wood – there will be plenty of Holiday Camps to choose from including Little Kickers Football, Animal Fun and much more. 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.

INKHEAD 07943 514 408 info@inkhead.co.uk www.inkhead.co.uk inkhead run creative writing workshops for children age 8 to 11 years. Their teachers are writers themselves and have developed programmes to encourage children to write more

PAINT WRITE NOW ART AND CREATIVE WRITING www.paintwritenow.co.uk 07779 100 659 In Wimbledon throughout August with Katherine Smith, Oxford graduate Creative Writing Themed classes: Monsters, Giants and more. For older children, structure or freedom as needed.

Art Making Sketchbooks, Journals and Art-Shirts, Creative Painting, Creative Drawing.

Classes are divided by age and maximum 8 students prices and further details on website. For 6-11 year olds.

Inspire children to become confident artists and writers!

LEADERS ARE READERS Dunraven School, Leigham Court Road, SW16 2QB 24 July to 11 August All their courses are available for ages 3½ to 13 years in: • Reading Programme • Year 1- Year 5 Maths and English Programme including Creative Writing Workshop for 7+ Preparation Programme comprehensively covering Maths, verbal and Non Verbal Reasoning and English 11+ Mock and Intensive exam practice.

An opportunity for children to enjoy the challenge of learning new topics or to gain an understanding of tough topics ahead of their introduction in their regular school; to cover a year's essential work in 3 weeks or to just fill in learning gaps.

9am–1pm or 9am–3.30pm 11+ Programme only

Dawes Road SW6 7EN 07949 204553, www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk Throughout Summer Holidays Touch Typing Courses Touch typing courses for children aged 7+, classes are 90 minutes long, £250 for the week. Classes are mixed age and ability. Sibling discounts available.

YELLOWBIRD EDUCATION

HEARTS & ARTS Battersea Scout Centre SW11 5QS info@myadkids.com 07487 735026 www.facebook.com/MeditationYogaAr tsDance 14-18 August Help children to live healthy happy lives.

Hearts & Arts is a new summer workshop combining the benefits of meditation, yoga and creative arts for children aged 5-11 years old. It includes fun filled dance and drama activities to encourage creativity and confidence alongside meditation and yoga practices to encourage mindfulness and a sense of calm. A holistic and a sensory experience using sensory props, art crafts, aromatherapy and Tibetan singing bowls. SEN welcome. 10am – 1pm. £125 if you book before 30th June £150 thereafter.

Parsons Green Prep School, 1 Fulham Park Road, Fulham SW6 4LJ 020 7731 0695 / 07790 912318, hello@yellowbirdeducation.com www.yellowbirdeducation.com 18 July – 1 September Summer Creative Writing Workshops Exciting, creative workshops for Years 2-6. 10am-2pm, £349 for a 4-day week, £399 for 5 days. Also, Intensive Handwriting Workshops, age 6 and up, 24-28 July and 21-25 August at Parsons Green Prep School, £499 per course.

ALPINE FRENCH SCHOOL French Alps +33 4 50 79 08 38 www.alpinefrenchschool.com 9 July – 19 August French Summer Camps (morning, day and residential) Morning French Lessons followed

by Afternoon Activities including mountain adventure activities plus weekend excursions for the residential camp, prices start from 229€ for one week, ages 6-17.

ET PATATI PATATA

LANGUAGES NAOMI MARTIN TOUCH TYPING Sinclair House School, 59 Fulham High Street SW6 3JJ Dawes Road Hub, Matthew Court, 20

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Thomas’ Academy, Parsons Green SW7 07966 893674, caroline@etpatatipatata.com www.etpatatipatata.com 17 July – 4 August Summer Fun French Day Camp Join the award winning French

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SUMMER LISTINGS

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Et Patati Patata summer French camp immersion programme and learn French without leaving London. 30 hours per week led by an experienced native French teacher, 9am-3pm, ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-16.

20 fun activities: pop French music, French Art, patisserie, French coding, French musical, sport…and it’s all 100% French Fun!

theatre and language games in French. 9am-3pm with half-day sessions also available, ages 3-5 and 6-8. Book early to avoid disappointment! Half-day £45 per session (or £190 for five half-days), full day £65 per session (or £290 for five full days).

CLUB PETIT PIERROT

MUSIC, DANCE AND DRAMA

Venues in Chelsea 020 7385 5565, admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk 17-28 July Fun French Summer Holiday Clubs Creative activities and fun projects such as arts and crafts, cooking, singing, dancing, sporty games,

SPARKS (formerly Studio Film School) Broomwood Hall School, Nightingale Lane SW12 8NR 020 7101 9329, hello@sparksignite.com www.sparks-ignite.com Dates in July and August.

Summer Holiday Course Fall in love with film this summer. Over 5 days in July or August, young movie makers aged 7–18 can shoot, crew, direct, act in and edit their own summer blockbuster. You’ll celebrate in style with friends and family as you tread the Red Carpet at your very own VIP Film Premiere at Soho’s Curzon Cinema. 9am-3pm daily, £265 per place, with sibling discounts available.

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ACT DRAMA Broomwood Upper School 68-74 Nightingale Lane SW12 8NR 07976 873161, actdrama@googlemail.com www.actdrama.co.uk 17-21 July Act Summer Drama Week – Peter Pan Holiday Drama 'Play in a Week' Workshops include drama games, improvisation, movement, dance, singing, rehearsals and loads of fun.

At the end of the week you will do a full performance of the play to your friends and family. 10am-3pm, £175 (£145 sibling discount).

Karen Forbes summer dance school

ALLSORTS DRAMA More House School, 22–24 Pont Street SW1 17-21 July 020 8969 3249, info@allsortsdrama.com www.allsortsdrama.com Summer Holiday Drama Workshops - 9.30am-3.30pm, ages 4–6 and 7-11, £220 for the week with sibling and early bird discounts.

DANTASTIC PERFORMERS Sindbads, 82 Durham Rd, SW20 OTL 020 7018 4644 www.dantasticproductions.com/ summer

24 July – 25 August Join the Dantastic team for a fun pack musical theatre adventure!

Make friends, learn new skills and build confidence through a mixture of singing, acting and dancing. At the end of the week friends and family are invited to watch each age group in a show-stopping musical performance. There will be different themes each week so you are welcome to join all summer. 9.30am-12.30 or 1-4pm, 4-6 and 7-12yrs.

FUNKY MONKEY KEYBOARD CLASSES Streatham, Balham, Herne Hill, Beckenham 01732 457100, mail@funkymonkey.info www.funkymonkey.info 24 July – 4 August Funky ‘One Hit Wonder’ Taster Days A brilliant all-round introduction to the electronic keyboard for 4-9 year old beginners. Learn how to read, play and write notes C-A alongside basic keyboard

AMANDA’S ACTION CLUB Skylark Café, Wandsworth Common SW18 3RT 01895 623999, info@amandasactionclub.co.uk www.amandasactionclub.co.uk Throughout Summer Holidays Active Music Baby and Toddler Classes Fun and energetic, for little ones and older children too. £10 pay as you go, check website for times.

The Strings Club will inspire their love of music

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technique, plus composition, artwork, singing and performance skills. All equipment and mid morning snack provided, please bring packed lunch. Maximum 10 children per class, 10am-2pm.

FUNKY MOVES DANCE Balham, Dulwich and Wimbledon 07810 431101, info@funkymoves.com www.funkymoves.com Throughout July and August Dance and Art Summer Courses Amazing Street Dance workshops, break dance skills class, funky arts & crafts activities, fancy dress games and spectacular performances. 9.30am–12.30pm daily, age 4-12, £105 + VAT per course.

KAREN FORBES SCHOOL OF DANCE Rutlish School, Mostyn Road Entrance Mostyn Road, SW19 3LL Contact Karen Forbes on 07506 946 882 Summer School is back! 31st July to 4th August, 9am— midday. Pupils will learn routines from a wide range of dance genres including jazz, modern, hip-hop, ballet and musical theatre with excerpts from Frozen, Wizard of Oz, and Hairspray. £125 for the week, for 4-11 year olds.

PERFORM Clapham, Chelsea, Kensington, Wimbledon 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/holidays Inspire your child’s imagination this summer with Perform’s unique holiday courses.

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SUMMER LISTINGS

During July and August your 4-7 year old could be acting out the classic Beauty & Beast fairytale on one of Perform’s three or five day courses. 7-12 year olds will be joining Zak & Zara and the space age family on an epic cyberspace adventure. They’ll rehearse and perform a funky special written show exploring online safety.

Perform courses are packed with dance, drama, singing and fun and are run by highly skilled trained actors. See website for course dates. From £175.

SIEGERIS SCHOOL OF DANCE South Wimbledon Community Centre, 78 Victory Road SW19 1HN 07730 536499, info@siegerisdance.com www.siegerisdance.com 24-28 July and 31 July – 4 August Summer School This popular summer school will return again this year, and they hope to see you there!

Their much-loved programme involves daily classes and workshops taught by industry teaching professionals in different genres. They explore choreography, music, mime, drama and making props and costumes. It is a truly unforgettable experience for all involved.

The five fun-filled days of dance and musical theatre ends in a costumed show for family and friends to enjoy. Ages 5-6, 7-8 and 8+, 10am-3pm, £180, 10% sibling discount.

THE STRINGS CLUB Balham 0121 296 9204

Central London Golf junior summer camp

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Meditation, yoga and creative arts with Hearts and Arts www.thestringsclub.org Aspiring young musicians can experience award winning music programmes right on their doorstep this summer.

Established by violinist and experienced teacher, Amy Cunningham, The Strings Club is an award-winning music education company, offering children aged 411 a range of high-quality musical experiences, specifically centred around stringed instruments including ukulele, violin, guitar and cello.

Their programmes are a fun, exciting, stimulating and rewarding way to inspire a love of music.

Their Holiday Camps, Term Time classes and Parties ensure there is a popular activity to suit every child and every family situation.

STAGECOACH BATTERSEA AND BALHAM Northcote Lodge, 26 Bolingbroke Grove SW11 6EL 07956 288928, battersea@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea 24-28 July High School Musical Five fabulous days or mornings of dance, acting and singing led by a team of experienced musical theatre practtioners. The perfect Summer Holiday activity for echildren and teens - dance, sing, act and put on a show. Totally brilliant - no experience required and you don't have to attend Stagecoach weekend classes. 4-6

year olds 9.30-12.30pm, £150 (siblings £125), 7-16 year olds, 10am-4pm, £185 (siblings £160).

STAGECOACH WIMBLEDON Wimbledon High School, Mansel Road SW19 4AB 020 8946 3400, wimbledon@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon 24 July – 4 August Performing Arts Workshops Put on a Show in 5 days and perform it in a theatre at the end of the week to family and friends.

This year’s shows are Hairspray the Musical for 7-16 years and The Jungle Book for 4-6 years. Early bird and sibling discounts available.

STAGECOACH MERTON PARK Park Community School, Merton 020 8942 3502 www.stagecoach.co.uk/mertonpark 24-28 July.

Summer Workshops – Matilda the Musical Your child will have five days to work with professional actors, dancers and musicians teaching them script work, exciting routines and learning those all so famous catchy songs. This will lead to the final big performance on the last day, a truly special way to enjoy the summer holidays. Ages 4-7, 9.30am-12.30pm, £125, siblings £105. Age 8-18, 10am-4pm, £150.

Siblings £130.

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STAGECOACH TOOTING AND MITCHAM Graveney School, Tooting 020 8942 3502 www.stagecoach.co.uk/tooting 7-11 August Matilda Summer Workshop See description for Stagecoach Merton Park.

Ages 4-7, 9.30am-12.30pm, £125, siblings £105. Age 8-18, 10am4pm, £150. Siblings £130.

SPORT BATTERSEA SPORT CENTRE Hope Street SW11 2DA 020 8871 8529 www.enablelc.org/bsc 24 July – 11 August Holiday Fun Sports activities and loads of fun include kwik-cricket, short tennis, rounders, table tennis, football, volleyball, street dance, badminton, go-karting, trampolining, dodge ball, basketball, Brazilian ju-jitsu and more! 10am-3pm, age 6-13, £13 per day drop in only or £50 per week book in advance.

CENTRAL LONDON GOLF CENTRE Burntwood Lane SW17 0AT 020 8871 2468 www.clgc.co.uk 10 July – 5 September Junior Golf Summer Camps These fun-based camps for 7 -14 year olds are tailored to children of all levels, whether they want to try golf or have been playing for some time. Morning only camp 9am12pm, £30, whole day camp 9am3pm, £45. Bring a packed lunch.

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SUMMER LISTINGS

SWIMWAY East Sheen, Putney, Kensington and Wimbledon 020 8871 3972, info@swimway.co.uk www.swimway.co.uk Throughout Summer Holidays 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.

SOUTH WEST SWIM SCHOOL 020 8767 2723 www.swswimschool.co.uk SWSS are running popular intensive splash courses during Summer Holidays. See swimming feature pages.

24/07-4/08 @ Ernest Bevin College 7/08-11/08 @ Burntwood School and Ernest Bevin College 14/08-18/08 @ Burntwood School only.

TELFORD PARK TENNIS CLUB 35a Killieser Avenue SW2 4NX www.telfordparktennisclub.co.uk 07736 068375 coaching@telfordparktennisclub.co.uk Telford Park Tennis Club’s LTA supported tennis camps provide fun and inclusive tennis coaching for all abilities. From the complete beginner to advanced level teens, coaching takes place in Telford Parks safe and welcoming environment, encouraging real tennis learning, teamwork, and the development of key physical and technical skills. With excellent coach to player ratios. An excellent way to keep busy over the holidays while making new friends and learning valuable skills. for 3 - 17 year olds.

Swimway

YOUNGSTARS MULTISPORTS AND ACTIVITY CAMP Balham, Clapham, Parsons Green, Putney and Wimbledon 07749 343116, info@youngstars.co.uk www.young-stars.co.uk 24 July – 1 September May Half Term Holiday Camps Plenty of fun, games and excitement whilst kids are introduced to all aspects of sports in an all inclusive and non-competitive environment.

3-10 years, times and prices vary.

GET ACTIVE www.merton.gov.uk/activekids Get active with Merton’s range of leisure activities this summer. Find something for everyone with arts, sports and watersports courses.

Learn horseriding at Wimbledon's Ridgeway stables or brush up on your racquet skills with tennis & badminton. Also choose from football and golf plus crafts and music classes for the creative minded.

Courses from just £10 per hour.

Ages 5 + (depending on activity) Places fill up quickly so book now.

WIGMORE TENNIS CLUB

Give your child First Hand Experiences of nature based activities

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43 Becmead Avenue, Streatham, SW16 1UJ Julia Searle on 07816 004 992 julia@tenniscoaching.london https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/JTennis/C oaching/Junior

10 July to 1st September for children aged 3-14yrs of all abilities.

Camp hours have been designed to be as flexible as possible, with a low coach:player ratio and aim to help the children develop their skills as tennis players rather than purely offering childcare. £12 per session or £20 for both morning/afternoon sessions.

Morning camp (10am-12.30pm) or Full day camp (10am-3pm).

WIMBLEDON SPORTS ACADEMY Wimbledon College, Edge Hill, SW19 4NS www.sportsacademyuk.com Until 22 July Sports Academy is about introducing youngsters to a wide range of sporting activities, harvesting potential no matter how great or small, and developing life skills such as confidence, personal achievement and teamwork.

4 & 16 years.

SPORTS GENERATION Wimbledon, Esher, Richmond, Chiswick, Bloomsbury, and Hook 020 8940 9431 info@sportsgeneration.co.uk www.sportsgeneration.co.uk.

Intensive Holiday Courses available. Check on website for dates.

DAY CAMPS FIRST HAND EXPERIENCES Fulham Palace, Bishop’s Ave, SW6 6EA contact@firsthandexperiences.co.uk www.firsthandexperiences.co.uk The best way to learn is through authentic, first-hand, nature-based experiences. Day camps include theme-based trips and workshop sessions. There are three options...

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SUMMER LISTINGS 10th July to 1st September •Palace Pioneers (3-5yrs) Sustainable living with integrated gardening and cooking sessions, nature craft, original music, yoga and forest school play. Half day sessions for 3 - 4 year olds, full day sessions for 5 year olds.

•Wild Explorers group (6-11 yrs) 3 trips per week to London’s wild green space including crafting a spear from wood to tie-dying with foraged finds, model ship building to tending their own musical market stall at the end-of-week show. They even make their own delicious whole food lunches and snacks with their dedicated camp chef.

•Sleep away (7-14 yrs) More of the same as above but there’s a sleep away camp in Kent too!

See website for details of pricing, which include delicious wholefood.

THE BUTTERFLY PRESCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS 32b Webbs Road SW11 6SF 020 7738 0019 www.thebutterflypreschool.co.uk 31 July – 4 August, 7-10 August Fun Summer Camps Half day or full day camps, spending as much time as possible outside, with every morning session at the park.

Activities include Judy Murray's set 4 sport programme, Water Games, Orienteering, Den building, Canvas creating, Biscuit Making, Nature Hunt, T-shirt decorating, arts and crafts. 9am-1pm or 2-5pm, full day 9am-5pm, from £80 for two half days up to £320 for 5 full days.

Role Models, confidence and resilience building

SUMMER CONFIDENCE & RESILIENCE COURSES www.rolemodels.me info@rolemodels.me 020 3637 7107 Role Models are running their unique Confidence & Resilience Courses for ages 8-12 in SW London from July 17–21st, August 21–25th and August 29th–September 1st (10am–3pm).

The courses include team-building exercises, interview skills, debating & public speaking. They focus on developing a growth mindset and the key ‘soft’ skills required to thrive at school, at home and in life ahead. Cost is £325-£390 (+VAT).

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LITTLE HOUSE OF SCIENCE

The summer is very long and if you have an active preschool age child you’ll want to keep him/her occupied over this period. It’s important to spend time with your little ones and to create memories, but the cost of day trips everyday —and if you also have a baby in tow it can get extremely exhausting. So how can you find summer camps where you can leave your little ones for a couple of hours a day.

CHOOSING A CAMP? Choose a camp that will interest your child. For example, if your child loves sport then choose a sports camp, if your child loves art choose an art camp. There are camps do offer both or a variety of activities. For example Butterfly Preschool camps have both structured sports time as well as free play art sessions outside, to make sure it’s fun and engaging for children of their age.

SEN AND OTHER MOVING OVERSEAS? Summer is often the time families choose to move house. AGS London can move you to any European city from as low as £300! They’ve moved 70,000 families last year. They do storage, corporate relocations, moving vehicles, all risk insurance and much more. Get a free quotes from www.ags360.com

SUMMER SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS CAMPS www.rolemodels.me info@rolemodels.me 020 3637 7107 Role Models are running their awesome SEN camps this summer for ages 6-12 with mild-moderate special needs. The camps take place at schools in Southfields, Richmond and Regent’s Park from July 2428th, August 21-25th and August 29th-September 1st (9.30am–3.30pm daily).

The camps involve structured, fun activities led by experienced staff.

Cost is £72/day, discounted to £60/day if the full camp is booked. Council funding is available.

HOW WILL THEY COPE AT BEING LEFT? Pick a provider that are used to dealing with children of their age group. They will be very used to distracting children and making sure they settle in quickly. Lots of camps offer a large age range of children so if they have older siblings they can go along with them to makes it easier for the younger ones to settle in.

The Butterfly Preschool offer summer camps for children age 2-7 years, with half day (9am-1pm) and full day (9am-5pm) options.

They spend the whole morning out at the park doing a mixture of sports, forest school and art activities to suit all the ages. The afternoons are spent creating craft activities, cooking, water activities in the garden or children choosing their own activity for down time.

• The Butterfly Preschool is at 32b Webbs Road SW11 6SF 020 7738 0019 www.thebutterflypreschool.co.uk

FOUNDLING MUSEUM 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 17 June The Great Get Together Bring a picnic lunch and a favourite children’s book, and join your neighbours in a simple act of friendship and sharing. Actors will be on hand to read your stories aloud and bring much-loved tales to life, in a celebration of community as part of The Great Get Together. 2-4pm

FREE ACTIVITIES SOUTHBANK CENTRE Southbank SE1 9PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Throughout June Urban Beach The beach will be back this year for friends and family to enjoy riverside views, build sandcastles and pop along for design, dance and performances at the Southbank Centre.

17 June Meltdown Mela Come along with the whole family for a day of outdoor entertainment, as

BROCKWELL PARK COMMUNITY GREENHOUSES Brockwell Park SE24 0PA www.brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk 24 June World of Worms (and Waste) Age 5+, £5 (booking required). Get up close to a gardener's best friends: worms! 10.30am-12pm

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SUMMER LISTINGS

SUMMER CAMPS FOR UNDER 5’S

Imperial College, Kensington SW7 2AZ 0800 092 1062, info@littlehouseofscience.com www.littlehouseofscience.com 17 July – 3 September Summer Camps Hands-on, project based summer camps, Tuesdays-Thursdays 10am-3pm, ages 4-11, from £168 per camp. Includes Amazing Human Anatomy, Let’s Explore the Universe, and Amazing Animals: Evolution, Adaptations, Food Chains and Ecosystems.

Meltdown Mela celebrates arts and culture from the UK’s South Asian communities. Enjoy dancing, music and fun, 1-7pm

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HAM HOUSE www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse-and-garden Ham Street, Richmond-uponThames TW10 7RS 4 and 10 June Historic Scenic Walk Free guided walk from Richmond Station to Ham House and Garden.

Meet inside station entrance, no booking needed.

MORDEN HALL PARK Morden SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhall-park

Throughout June Join a nature trail around the park and make some delightful crafts to take home. £4 per child, entry to Morden Hall is free. 11am-4pm

BRITISH LIBRARY 96 Euston Road NW1 2DB www.bl.uk 25 June Travelling Words. 11.30am-1pm and 2-3.30pm, free, drop in, age 511.

ROYAL SOCIETY SUMMER SCIENCE EXHIBITION 2017

Don’t miss this

6-9 Carlton House Terrace SW1Y 5 AG www.royalsociety.org/summerscience 4-9 July Hold a beating robotic heart in your hands, get to grips with the engineering behind bicycle chains that helped team GB’s cycling Olympians and Paralympians get their golds, and learn how we can harness digital technologies to make a difference in the mental health of the iGeneration. 6 days of free science fun for all ages.

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

DIARY DATES HF ARTSFEST Across Hammersmith and Fulham www.hf-artsfest.com 3-11 June This year’s theme is ‘Taking Arts to the People’. Enjoy pop-up performances alongside a packed programme of music, drama, exhibitions, tours and more. Plus a community arts fair with local artists on 3 June.

MITCHAM CARNIVAL Commonside West, Mitcham 10 June Main Stage featuring headline artist BGT's Wayne Woodward, Arena entertainment, British Empire Wrestling, Dog Show, Fun Fair, 100+ Charity and Trade stalls and more. Between 12 noon and 5pm

CLAPHAM NCT NEARLY NEW SALE Broomwood Methodist Church SW11 8BD www.nct.org.uk 10 June Lots of fun family friendly activities as well as an opportunity to pick up some nearly new bargains, meet other parents and grab a slice of cake from the popup cafe. 9.30-11.30am, £1.50 entry for adults.

SPARKLING TIARA’S FUN FAMILY AFTERNOON Cannizaro House (Hotel du Vin), Wimbledon Common SW19 4UE www.treeofhope.org.uk/olivia-lugani / www.olivialugani.com 11 June Support children with rare forms of dwarfism at this free family fun afternoon, 1-4pm. With a bouncy castle, face painting, entertainment, afternoon tea and an auction.

WANDSWORTH HERITAGE FESTIVAL Across Wandsworth www.wandsworth.gov.uk To 12 June A series of local events exploring

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IF YOU ONLY DO ONE THING THIS MONTH… GO AND SEE PICTURING HETTY FEATHER Foundling Museum 40 Brunswick Square WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Throughout June This summer the Foundling Museum presents a familyfriendly exhibition exploring how Hetty Feather has brought the history of the Foundling Hospital to life.

Since the first Hetty Feather book was published in 2008, Dame Jacqueline Wilson’s series of novels has delighted young audiences with the adventures of its heroine, the spirited Victorian foundling Hetty Feather. On display will be props and original costumes from the CBBC television set, alongside unseen treasures from the Hetty Feather at The Foundling Museum Foundling Hospital Collection and archive. Visitors will be able to try on costumes made for the production and take part in a range of interactive activities. This is an amazing exhibition, truly immersive family fun - discover your own ‘picturing’ abilities in relation to the Foundling Hospital story, and imagine what life was like for Hetty and the real-life foundling children. the history of the borough. With loads of free family activities. For more info call 020 7223 2334 or email heritage@gll.org.

GET YOUR SKIN SUMMER READY Eudelo 63 Bondway London SW8 1SJ Tickets sold via www.kensingtonmums.co.uk 13 June Social event with drinks and skinfriendly canapés. Exclusive presentation by celebrity dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams on summer skin damage issues, including sun exposure and urban pollution. Try products, get individual moles of concern checked, demos, goodie bags to take away and much more. 6-9pm £15.

CONFIDENCE & RESILIENCE TASTER DAY Chelsea Academy School, SW10 0AB, info@rolemodels.me 020 3637 7107 www.rolemodels.me 17 June The day’s activities will be teambuilding exercises and public speaking. It focuses on developing a growth mindset and the key ‘soft’ skills required to thrive at school, at home and in life ahead. Cost is £30 (+VAT). for ages 8-12, 10am– 3pm).

FIRST AID COURSES Battersea 020 8133 8552 www.firstaidtraininglondon.co.uk info@firstaidtraininglondon.co.uk 17 June Paediatric First Aid (1 day) £96.

9, 30 June and 14 July CPR Basic Life support £66.

Discount code: Families.

FULHAM PALACE Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org 17 June Youth Panel. 11 to 17 year olds can learn new creative skills and meet new people. 10am-12pm, free, booking essential.

18 June Edwardian Garden Party.

Following in the footsteps of the Bishops of old, join in an afternoon of Edwardian themed family fun on the Main Lawn. Music, entertainment, traditional games, storytelling, costumes and activities abound at this well-loved annual affair. 1-4pm, free.

THE GLOBE FAMILY OFFER 21 New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT Visit the exhibition desk to buy tickets every day or call 020 7902 1599 for more information.

Learn about Shakespeare’s world and his plays through interactive activities and demonstrations at Shakespeare’s Globe. £10 Family tickets for a limited period. Ages 4+ to 5+

Mitcham Carnival 10th June

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WHAT’S ON

(c) Historic Royal Palaces - Hadley Studios

12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm Tuesdays in June Play Tuesdays Embark on a museum adventure that includes trails, arty workshops, songs and stories. 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2pm

MUSEUM OF LONDON

BABIES AND TODDLERS MESSY TODDLERS The Bright Emporium, 103-105 St John’s Hill SW11 1SY www.thebrightemporium.com 17 June, 1 and 15 July Why make a mess at home?

Come to the Emporium and have all the fun with none of the tidying up. Age 0-4, 10.30-11.30am

HORNIMAN MUSEUM AND GARDENS 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Every Tuesday and Wednesday in June Busy Bees Lively sessions for under-5s and their parents/carers during term-time. Activities include storytelling, art and craft and outdoor play. Free, 10.30am, 11.15am, 12pm

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

17 June The Comedy of Errors.

Shakespeare’s hilarious farce performed by the all male cast of the The Lord Chamberlain's Men. This riotous rollercoaster of a comedy, full of Elizabethan costumes, music and dance, will keep you guessing and laughing until its joyous conclusion. 6.30pm, £15 adult, £10 child.

25 June The Emperor’s New Clothes.

Hans Christian Anderson’s classic tale is brought to life in international award-winning outdoor theatre company Illyria's cheekiest show ever. This production is especially suited for ages 5+. 2.30pm, £14 adult, £8.50

EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk Wednesdays in June Little Moles Toddlers Group and Mini Moles Babies Group Fun, hands-on, creative sessions for toddlers, parents and carers.

3.30-4.30pm, 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 June Inspirational and fun classical concerts Babies and toddlers are welcome to crawl, dance, sing, cry, nappy change and more, so you can relax and enjoy some wonderful music. £10 per adult, children free, tickets online or on the door. Dates vary depending on venue.

MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD www.nationaltrust.org.uk Every Monday in June Little Explorers Bring your little ones to enjoy crafts, outdoor activities, songs and stories. Little Explorers is a fun activity session

child, £3 under 3s.

25 June Bee Keeping at Fulham Palace for Families. Explore the world of bees and honey with this interactive family-friendly demonstration led by volunteer bee keepers, with the opportunity to taste their delicious honey and even make your own beeswax candle to take home. 10.30am11.30am, £5.50 per person; booking essential.

Tiny Explorers at Hampton Court Palace for children aged 2-5, 10am, £2 per child, £1 siblings.

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

HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace Every Thursday and Saturday to 24 June 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.

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

Includes live bands and dance groups, stalls, food and drink, old fashioned fairground games, children’s arts and crafts,

W8 4PX hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace Selected Wednesdays and Saturdays in June 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. skateboarding, a bouncy castle and donkey rides. Entry free, 12-8pm, theme is Furzedown on Sea!

FURZEDOWN BIG DAY OUT Furzedown Rec, Ramsdale Road SW17 9BP www.furzedown.net 17 June Furzedown BIG DAY OUT 17th June

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DROP-IN CHOCOLATE MAKING www.thechocolatemuseum.co.uk The Chocolate Museum, 187 Ferndale Road SW9 8BA 17 June Creative and fun workshop Filling, decorations and lolly sticks provided to make beautiful chocolate creations. 12-5pm, from £9.50

WIMBLEDON GUILD VILLAGE FAIR Wimbledon Common www.wimbledonguildvillagefair.org.uk 17 June One of London's largest free outdoor events will again host an amazing jousting display. Last year’s star attraction, The Knights of Middle England, will return for a thrilling tournament as horses thunder and swords clash in an amazing spectacle. With children’s adventure villages, bouncy castles, a climbing wall and petting farm.

10.30am to 5pm, entry is free.

different planet and film a stop motion diary to record events and discoveries. 11am-12.30pm, age 7-11

SUMMER FAIRS • ST LUKE’S CHURCH Sydney Street SW3 6NH 17 June Clothes, toys, books, home produce and more. 12-3pm • ST JOSEPH’S RC PRIMARY SCHOOL SUMMER FAIR Cadogan Street SW3 2QT www.stjosephs.rbkc.sch.uk 24 June With stalls, games and entertainment for all! 11-3pm.

• FIRCROFT PRIMARY SCHOOL SUMMER FAIR Fircroft Road, Tooting SW17 7PP 15 July Loads of stalls and lots of fun!

12-3pm.

• LONDON STEINER SCHOOL MEDIEVAL SUMMER FESTIVAL

SATURDAY COMMUNITY DAYS Oasis Play Nature Garden, Larkhall Lane SW4 6SP www.oasisplay.org.uk/come-andplay/nature-garden 17 June A nature garden for children and their carers to enjoy together.

Picnic, pond dip, garden, cook or join in with workshops teaching woodwork, bush craft skills and more. 10.30am-4pm

LEGO STOP MOTION Imperial College London, Exhibition Road SW7 2AZ www.mini-engineers.com 17 June Go on an epic journey to a

The Kagools at Balham Comedy Festival London. Gather for this annual fun filled family event in the beautiful and panoramic settings of The Rookery. With music, dancing, traditional bread making, magical storytelling, medieval face painting, children’s workshops and a crossbow challenge. Adults £2.50, children free.

St Stephen's Church Hall, 48 Emperor's Gate SW7 4HJ www.mum2mummarket.co.uk 25 June Award-winning baby and children’s nearly new sale - clothes, toys, books, baby equipment and more.

Great quality, top brands, bargain prices. 1.30–3.30pm

THE BIG LUNCH

At Streatham Common Rookery, SW16 3BX www.waldorflondon.co.uk 10 June Brave Knights and Bold Heroines will celebrate Midsummer at the largest Medieval Festival in South West

www.edenprojectcommunities.com/t hebiglunch 18 June Join streets, communities and friends across the UK to have lunch with your neighbours. Go to the website to find out how to get started to host your own Big Lunch, whether it is sharing sandwiches in your front garden, a traditional street party or a big community bash. Your starter pack includes posters, invites and activity sheets.

EMILY'S FAMILY WORKSHOPS 18 Hotham Road, Putney www.dancegrooves.dance 20 June Preparing for the Teen Years 1012.30pm

FAMILY SATURDAY Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill SW11 5TN www.bac.org.uk 24 June and 29 July A day of fun, food and family friendly activities including face painting, storytelling, music, soft play, crafts and more. 10am-3pm Hoffman Institute’s parenting workshops are for all parents

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SUPPORT YOUR CHILD

BY LEAVING THE PAST BEHIND 30 Beauchamp Road, SW11 1PQ 01903 88 99 90 info@hoffmaninstitute.co.uk www.hoffmaninstitute.co.uk/ parenting-workshops 24 June In order to be fully present to your child’s needs it’s important that you understand more about your own childhood. Using techniques from the internationally-acclaimed selfdevelopment course The Hoffman Process, these new parenting workshops offer support and guidance to create harmony at home or at school. Hoffman are now in their 50th year and their workshops are recommended by parents, carers, teachers and health professionals around the world.

10am- 5pm.

LITTLE MIX SUMMER SHOUT OUT Twickenham Stoop Stadium, Langhorn Drive TW2 7SX www.quins.co.uk 25 June As part of their Summer Shout Out Tour, Ella Eyre and Sheppard will be the support acts for Little Mix at the Twickenham Stoop. Don’t miss it!

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RHS GARDEN WISLEY www.rhs.org.uk Wisley Lane, Woking GU23 6QB To 30 June In the Night Garden Trail. Join Iggle Piggle on a magical adventure around the garden for an imaginative play trail that is ideal for children aged 1 to 4. Pick up a free trail at the entrance or download the app to start the magical journey.

23 June Wisley Late Evening. A chance for visitors to experience the tranquillity of Wisley after hours.

Last entry 8pm

BALHAM COMEDY FESTIVAL The Bedford pub, Bedford Hill, Balham Book now on www.balhamcomedyfestival.com 29 June – 8 July Don’t miss this great local comedy event. Acts include Sara Pascoe, Ed Byrne, Mary Bourke, Kagools, Phil Nichol, Jeremy Hardy, Jason Manford, Joe Lycett, Simon Evans.

Best of Banana Cabaret hosted by Festival Co Producer John Moloney.

PARSONS GREEN FAIR Parsons Green 1st July A Fulham tradition for 25 years, the Fair in a fun family day out including craft, trade and charity stalls, children’s carousels and rides, bouncy castle and an animal petting zoo. Over 100 stalls and attractions, food and drinks plus two stages with live music and performances, right in the heart of Fulham.

The day-long event is championing local businesses and community spirit is promoted by and in aid of local community charity FulhamGoodNeighbours.org

CLAPHAM PREGNANCY AND BABY SHOW Henry Cavendish Primary School, Hydethorpe Road, SW12 0JA www.claphambabyshow.co.uk 14 October Organised by Neighbourhood Midwives, Hello Mums and Baby Intuition. The Clapham Pregnancy and Baby Show is back with its fourth event. If you haven't heard about it before, it is a local, free event for expectant and new

parents, a fantastic opportunity to come and meet lots of pregnancy, birth and baby experts all in one morning. In a relaxed and informal setting, you can meet midwives, doulas, therapists and chat 1-to-1 about their area of expertise. Their goody bags are reknowned for being really generous, book now they are limited! FREE entry.

DRAMA THE CAMBRIDGE THEATRE Seven Dials, 32-34 Earlham Street WC2H 9HU uk.matildathemusical.com Throughout June 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.

CHELSEA THEATRE 7 World's End Place, King's Road SW10 0DR www.chelseatheatre.org.uk 29-30 June 00 And His 7: A James Bond Ballet The London Ballet Company embrace the dangerous world of everyone’s favourite spy in this delightful spoof, incorporating some of our favourite aspects - Bond, beauties and baddies! £10/£12, 7.30pm

Parsons Green Fair 1st July reaches 16 years of age she will prick her finger on a spindle and die. 2pm and 4pm, £12/£10

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH One Lyric Square W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk To 3 June The Emperor’s New Clothes Don’t miss this brand new romp through a classic, eccentric tale, telling the story of an Emperor who loves clothes more than anything. But despite a wardrobe the size of Paris he hasn’t got a stitch to wear! Age 3-11, £10

LYRIC THEATRE Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7ES www.lyrictheatrelondon.co.uk 5 July – 10 September What the Ladybird Heard Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ much-loved children’s book comes

to life, bringing farmyard fun to the West End. A glittering tale packed full of fun, What the Ladybird Heard follows two crafty robbers, one very small ladybird and all of her farmyard friends!

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1Q atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre 7-8 July English National Ballet School Summer Performance These talented young dancers will be showcasing their skills at the School’s annual Summer Performance, featuring a blend of classical, neo-classical and contemporary works as well as exciting new choreography from their own emerging choreographers.

COLOUR HOUSE THEATRE Watermill Way SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk To 25 June Sleeping Beauty As the King and Queen celebrate the birth of their beautiful baby Princess Aurora, an evil Green Fairy casts a spell on the new-born, stating that when she

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OMNIBUS CLAPHAM 1 Clapham Common Northside SW4 0QW www.omnibus-clapham.org 6-30 June A Midsummer Night’s Dream Starting in a secret Clapham location, team up to navigate your way through the misunderstandings and mishaps of Shakespeare’s finest comedy.

Follow the trails and deliver the wedding invitations, picking up clues and characters along the way.

But most importantly, watch out for the scheming fairies… It’s Midsummer Night’s Dream like you’ve never seen it before. £18/£16

THE PEACOCK THEATRE WC2A 2HT sadlerswells.com/peacock-theatre 13 June – 2 July Taj Express The Merchant dynasty return to The Peacock with the internationally acclaimed musical, Taj Express, in a stunningly vibrant celebration of the glitz and glamour of Bollywood.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Little Venice, Blomfield Road W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com Throughout June The Hare and the Tortoise And other tales from Aesop. Age 3+, £8.50/£12

SADLER'S WELLS Rosebery Avenue EC1R www.sadlerswells.com 7-10 June Scottish Ballet Sadler’s Wells transforms the 38-strong corps de ballet into a swarming horde of insects for Emergence – a journey into a subterranean hive where classical ballet transforms into strange insect-like behaviour.

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, Southwark SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com To 5 June The Man Who Knows It All Is it possible to know everything? The man who knows it all seems to think it is. Two performers and a

Imaginative play trail at RHS Wisley musician go on a quest in search of everything it is possible to know.

Age 4-10, from £8

THE VAULTS AT WATERLOO Launcelot Street SE1 7AD www.thevaults.london/alicesadventures-underground Throughout June Adventures in Wonderland A magical show, pushing the boundaries of children’s theatre.

Tumble down the rabbit hole in a theatrical adventure like no other, with more to explore than ever before. Meet some of Wonderland’s famous and curious inhabitants, take tea at the biggest un-birthday party with the maddest of Hatters, let the Cheshire Cat take you hither or thither or join the underground movement to rise against the fearsome Queen of Hearts. What a ride! Age 5-10

MUSEUMS, GALLERIES AND DAYS OUT BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM Threadneedle Street EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk Throughout June Stories from the City The Bank of England in Literature. The new polymer £10 note featuring author Jane Austen will be issued this summer. In celebration, this exhibition explores the Bank of England’s literary connections and appearances over the last three centuries.

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CHARLES DICKENS MUSEUM 48 Doughty Street WC1N 2LX www.dickensmuseum.com 18 June The Housemaid’s Tour Step back in time to 1839…Dickens and his young family are preparing to leave for a journey to their ‘home from home’ – a relaxing holiday in Broadstairs is just the ticket. But during their absence, the housemaid is up to no good. Discover the secrets of the esteemed young writer and his growing family.

10.15am, 11am and 11.45am, £15/£8 Last Sunday of every month Highlighting the Collection Drop-in object handling sessions throughout the historic interior of 48 Doughty Street. Discover a unique set of Dickensian curiosities from a cheque signed by Dickens, to a beautiful dolls house, an engraved snuff box and even a collection of original props from The Invisible Woman.

DESIGN MUSEUM 224-238 Kensington High Street W8 6AG www.designmuseum.org Throughout June California While California’s midcentury modernism is well documented, this is the first exhibition to examine its current global reach. Picking up the story in the 1960s, the exhibition charts the journey from the counterculture to Silicon Valley’s tech culture.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Throughout June 6 June – 10 September

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Hetty’s Hospital Inspired by Hetty Feather’s experience of the Foundling Hospital sick bay, young patients on the oncology and hematology wards at Great Ormond Street Hospital worked with artist Davina Drummond to create artworks in response to their personal experiences.

25 June Curator Tour Explore the exhibition Picturing Hetty Feather with Foundling Museum Curator, Kathleen Palmer, who leads a tour for visitors. 3pm, free with museum admission.

HAM HOUSE www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse-and-garden Ham Street, Richmond-upon-Thames TW10 7RS 18 June Father’s Day Come along and take part in the Father’s Day challenge. 10am-5pm

HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace Throughout June.

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.

HORNIMAN MUSEUM AND GARDENS 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Throughout June The Robot Zoo How do chameleons change colour? What

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makes grasshoppers leap so high?

Is a giant squid jet-propelled? At the Robot Zoo amazing animals are recreated in robot form to reveal their inner workings. From £4.40

KENSINGTON PALACE W8 4PX hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace 24 June Make History Get hands on with the palace’s creative workshops for families. Be inspired by a new palace story each month, and make a piece of the past by taking part in a range of exciting activities, from gardening and painting to chocolate making. 11.30am, 12.45pm and 2.30pm 24 June Time Explorers Station Explore the palace and discover its stories using the palace’s themed activity bags, games, trails and ‘make and take’ activities aimed at babies to children aged 13, 11am-4pm

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Throughout June Sounds of the City An exhibition of 100 illustrations, exploring a visual journey inspired by lyrics and language, hubbub and stillness, and heritage and science.

MUSEUM OF LONDON EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sundays in June 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 Saturdays in June

Tank, Sir Muirhead Bone, 1916, Lithograph, Army Museum

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Painshill Park, a great day out Hands-on history Hear incredible London stories as you touch and hold real museum objects. Age 5+, 2-4pm

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk 4, 11, 18 and 25 June War Paint exhibition tour Discuss the purposes behind painting war and highlight some of the techniques used to paint during conflict. 2.30pm.

28 June Hands-on War Paint Markmaking. Be inspired by the War Paint exhibition by getting creative in this hands-on workshop exploring the use of mark-making in art. 7pm, £5

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

12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Throughout June Wildlife Photographer of the Year Enjoy the world's best nature photography revealing the astonishing diversity of life on our planet, from urban foxes to mountain hares.

Throughout June Sensational Butterflies Escape into the tropical butterfly house in the Museum grounds and get up close to these incredible creatures, usually found in the tropical forests of Central and South America, Africa and Asia. From £5.85

THE 02 ARENA Peninsula Square SE10 0DX www.list.co.uk/event/654902-starwars-identities-exhibition Throughout June Star Wars Identities Exhibition An exhibition exploring the concept of identity through characters from the Star Wars universe. Visitors are taken on an interactive quest and leave with a personalised Star Wars character of their very own.

From £10

PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1JE www.painshill.co.uk 18 June Father’s Day Visit Painshill this Father’s Day and treat Dad to a beautiful country walk across the historic 18th century landscape, complete with a Gentleman’s Cream Tea and free entry to Painshill.

SCIENCE MUSEUM Exhibition Road, South Kensington SW7 2DD Sciencemuseum.org.uk Throughout June Robots: The 500 year quest to make machine human Discover how the history of robots has been shaped by religious belief, the industrial revolution and 20th century popular culture.

Throughout June 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

SOUTHBANK CENTRE Southbank SE1 9PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Throughout June The Art of the Brick: DC Super

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Heroes Is it a bird? Is it a plane?

No, it's a truckload of Lego making its way to the South Bank. A purpose-built tent will pop-up by the London Eye this month for 'The Art of the Brick: DC Super Heroes', a collection of largerthan-life sculptures of iconic comic book characters contructed entirely in Lego.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk From 10 June Seen But Not Heard A new photography display giving a unique voice to children in the transition from primary to secondary education.

Throughout June Searching for Ghosts Homes reveal much about the people who inhabit them, offering an intimate portrait of our domestic lives and bearing the traces of the people who lived in them in the past.

Explore this journey of discovery, offering a glimpse into the lived experience of several generations of east Londoners.

SPECIAL NEEDS EDDIE CATZ WIMBLEDON First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street SW15 1SF 0203 4755268 eddiecatz.com 28 June SEN Soft Play Evening Sessions Eddie Catz runs regular SEN indoor soft play sessions specifically dedicated to children ages 3-14yrs with special needs and their families. 6-7.30pm, includes full access to the soft play areas including the toddler area, the disco room will have music turned down and soft lights, wheelchair users will have access to area with soft mats, balls and toys, plus quiet and chill out area.

Book on http://shop.eddiecatz.com/categor y/128/SEN_Eve_Play_Session_Wi mbledon

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk First Sunday of every month Audio-described Tours Experience the First World War Galleries through one of these live audio-

ART ACTIVITIES DESIGN MUSEUM 224-238 Kensington High Street W8 6AG www.designmuseum.org 25 June Get into Design Family Workshop Join design studio OKIDO for an afternoon of learning-through-play by designing and making your own magazine.

Age 7-11

HORNIMAN MUSEUM AND GARDENS 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Every Saturday in June Art Makers Have fun with different art techniques to create something fabulous to take home inspired by the Horniman’s collections or seasonal celebrations. Different themes each week. 1.30pm & 2.45pm, £3, age 3+

description tours for blind and partially sighted visitors, ages 14+.

9.30am, booking essential on 020 7091 3157 or visitorenquiries@iwm.org.uk FREE

GAMBADO CHELSEA 7 Station Court SW6 2PY www.gambado.com/centres/chelsea Dates in June TBC Chelsea Austism Session. Come and join these fantastic Chelsea Autism friendly indoor soft play sessions at Gambado! Children £5, includes 1 adult, extra adults £2.50, see website for details.

DISNEY’S ALADDIN Prince Edward Theatre, 28 Old Compton Street W1D 4HS www.aladdinthemusical.co.uk/autism friendly 29 August Autism-Friendly Performance.

This performance is specially designed to make the West End production more accessible to autistic people. Disney Theatrical Productions will work closely with The National Autistic Society, the UK’s leading charity for autistic people and their families, to deliver the performance. Book your tickets now as they sell out fast.

Wimbledon Guild Village Fair 17th June

Throughout June Family Art Fun Join free and fabulous Horniman craft activities inspired by our temporary exhibitions and Gardens. Sessions run every 45 minutes.

V&A MUSEUM Cromwell Road SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk/families

Throughout June Family Activities Pick up a family trail from the Information Desk and explore the museum through puzzles, drawing and observation. There are also hundreds of exciting hands-on exhibits containing plenty to touch and try out, plus regular activities and workshops for ages 7-12 FREE

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE

Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Family Art Fun: Trails Explore the V&A with the new Undiscovered Museum Family Trail. Follow the images and discover the museum. Journey across the V&A with fantastic stories, games and multi-sensory materials. Plus Curious Ceramics Sensory back-pack for children with visual impairments.

Little Venice, Blomfield Road W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com 18 June Captioned performance of The Hare and the Tortoise and other Tales from Aesop, 3pm.

MUSEUM OF LONDON EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk Dates in June TBC Morning explorers (ASC friendly) Morning Explorers offers families with children who have an Autistic Spectrum Condition the opportunity to explore the museum while it is quiet. Discover fascinating objects and take part in relaxed family activities such as sensory rooms, self-directed trails and an arts and crafts session. Age under 13, 8.30-10am, advanced booking required.

FREE Morning Explorers at the Museum of London

•If you have info, please send to whatson@FamiliesSW.co.uk

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SUMMER HOLIDAYS OR WEEKENDS

Home Farm’s real beds are amazingly soft and luxurious

Will you go Camping, Glamping or… Pausing?

Getting closer to nature and spending time as a family away from work and technology are great reasons to take a family camping trip. A recent study has found that a weekend under canvas can help re-set your body clock and improve sleeping habits too. So you have every reason to take the leap and head for an encounter with nature.

Children need it, you need it. Now you need to decide whether you’ll go Camping, Glamping or Pausing…

Tips for camping

Pausing

• Make sure you are protected from the cold from the ground. Invest in a good quality thermal mat.

Aimee Bryan, founder of Pause for Effect, has teamed up with Home Farm to launch the first in a series of Pause Weekends designed to help people to reset, reconnect and refresh. With three beautiful yurts and nine bell tents set on a meadow, BBQs and campfires next to each tent, fine dining options, open air yoga classes, lakes for fishing, and acres of land and woodland to explore, Pausing is a step up from just glamping. Actually, it’s even better!

• If you don’t like sleeping bags, take your duvet (and pillow of course!)

• Head torches are a great idea. Children love them and it means you can be hands-free for toilet trips, getting dressed, eating and reading.

Glamping Glamping is a blend of ‘glamorous’ and ‘camping’. The Home Farm glamping concept combines the cosy feeling of camping with the luxury of a cottage. Waking up in a real bed, but under canvas is quite the unique experience. One that's heightened by the fact that you didn't have to pack any of the usual camping paraphernalia or put the tent up! We love www.homefarmglamping.com in Elstree, amazingly it is just five minutes from the end of the Jubilee and Northern Lines. Being so close to London means that popping back to the office is possible (if you want!).

For families with primary age children, Aimee has crafted a packed timetable of engaging activities to learn and play to their heart's content. Activities are led by their qualified and DBS certified team, which means you can either choose to join in, or leave them to it and take advantage of the quiet, creative zones created for adults. With all the entertainment and sustenance covered within the experience, there's nothing left for you to do but enjoy family time. We can vouch for the quality of the activities and the intention behind it these weekends. A nourishing pause for the whole family.

Book now for the weekend of 25-27th July 2017. Aimee Bryan on 07711 733036 or aimee@pauseforeffect.co www.pauseforeffect.co/family

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