Families SE London JulyAug 2019 issue 198

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FR EE

TAKE M E

South East

SCHOOL’S OUT Summer holiday clubs and workshops

LONDON CALLING Free outdoor festivals and family-fun events

Issue 198 July August 2019

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The long school holidays - don’t you just love ‘em? It’s a resounding “yes” from children (and teachers), and a mixed bag from parents with all those days to fill. But hey this is London - the finest playground in the country, filled with holiday workshops and daycamps and parks and back gardens and festivals and free museums to explore. There’ll barely be time to draw breath before it’s time to play hunt the schoolshoes again.

We’ll be back in September with our next issue but in the meantime, our Facebook page and Twitter feeds have daily local updates - join us on the links below.

Robina Cowan, editor

IN THIS ISSUE 2-3

Local News and Views Free family days in Blackheath and Camberwell parks; Children in Need funding for Lewisham projects; and summer’s free Space Chase in local libraries

4

Education News A new nursery in Sydenham; parents who are baffled by school; and Recycling with Michael

5

Starting School Parenting author Liat Hughes Joshi writes about preparing children for ‘big school’ in September

6-7

Holiday Clubs and Classes Supervised daycare, drama, craft and music workshops, and sports camps to keep children entertained through the holidays

8

9

email your news to editor@familiesse.co.uk

Come Rain or Shine in Camberwell Burgess Park will burst into life with free family fun over the last weekend in July.

Rain or Shine, on 27 and 28 July, will be a free outdoor festival of circus, theatre and storytelling for families and the young at heart in Camberwell’s beautiful Burgess Park. Make a date for a weekend of workshops, music, circus and family-friendly theatre designed for children of all ages.

For the second year in a row, Theatre Deli are bringing nationally touring aerial theatre companies and local favourites alike to engage the southeast London community. Southwark-based Mandinga Arts have long had a partnership with Theatre Deli, hosting a parade of costumes and dance for the Dia de los Muertos Festival and unmissable circus and performance workshops for the inaugural Rain or Shine. Join them as they return with new workshops and performances - come rain or shine!

Admission free - check the festival website for full details. www.theatredeli.co.uk/rainorshine

The Book Page

Small shoes, smaller prices

And chill. After a day’s play, downtime is at its best with a book or two, chosen for your reading pleasure by the bookseller Justine Crow

Throughout the whole of July, Emmanuelle Marshall is offering 10% off all back-toschool shoe sales - how useful!

Sydenham’s little children’s shoe shop offers a professional measuring service, a coffee-shop style loyalty card bonus scheme, and frequent sales.

See more on page 9.

What’s New Getting arty with BIC, and the products we’re loving this summer

11-15

LocalNews

What’s On Events, shows and workshops to inspire your family life Front cover: Photo by Limor Zellermayer on Unsplash September-October issue published 6 September, deadline 16 August

Families South East PO Box 11591, London SE26 6WB 020 8699 3958, editor@familiesse.co.uk

www.familiesse.co.uk for back issues and our media pack

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Families South East is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. 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. The contents of Families South East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families South East. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families South East, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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Children in Need funding in Lewisham BBC Children in Need has awarded new grants totalling £95,332 to four projects working with disadvantaged children and young people in Lewisham. The grants have been allocated through the charity’s Small Grants Programme: • Community Sports Coaching Foundation will use a one-year grant of £10,000 to provide confidenceboosting fitness and aerobic after-school activities for primary school girls • Mosac has benefited with a three-year grant of £27,287 to provide play therapy sessions for children and young people who have been affected by childhood sexual abuse • XLP will use funding of £28,044 to provide weekly football coaching and group mentoring sessions for young people living in the local area • MyLife Productions 2013 CIC has received a three-year grant of £30,000 to provide film-making, media and IT skills workshops for young people.

Across Lewisham, BBC Children in Need is currently funding 23 projects to a value of £1,465,708. Speaking of the new grants, Clare Cannock, Regional Head of South at BBC Children in Need said: “We are so pleased projects like these are able to benefit from our Small Grants Programme and make a difference in the local community. The generosity of the British public allows us to make these grants possible and make a positive impact on the lives of children and young people.” www.bbc.co.uk/pudsey/grants

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Space Chase - 2019 Summer Reading Challenge

Summer Sunday Extravaganza On Sunday 28 July, Mycenae House and The Friends of Mycenae Gardens are presenting a Summer Sunday Extravaganza as part of Royal Borough of Greenwich’s PARKSfest series.

Celebrate creativity, family, fun and local life through music, dance, wellbeing sessions, arts and crafts, and a varied programme of workshops and activities. The day brings musical vibes and a packed programme of live performances, art and dance workshops, a children’s Play Zone, tastebudtickling foods from the international Street Food Zone, and goodies from the Stall Zone.

The superb live music line-up includes performances from The Kimberleys (folk superstars), Mississippi MacDonald (blues guitar legend), The Grizzly Mutts (country, Americana and blues), Mary & The Lost (co-writes with Ed Sheeran ), Sam Winston (folk rock/alt pop), The Green Chain Quartet (60’s cool, jazz & RnB), plus more.

Activity highlights include diddi dance, Bo Peeps Preschool, Tiptoes & Tappers, Theatre Train, Emergency Exit Arts, Language for Fun, Follies Face & Body Painting, Toddlersense, Special League Soccer, Greenwich Music School, JK Performing Arts, Ballroom Burn and Greenwich Morris Men. All takes place at Mycenae House & Gardens, 90 Mycenae Road, Blackheath Standard, London, SE3 7SE from midday to 5.30pm, admission and parking free. www.mycenaehouse.co.uk

Children’s reading can decline during the summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure; so here’s a fun and free way to capture their imaginations.

The Summer Reading Challenge encourages 4-11 year-olds to read six library books during the long summer holiday.

This year the challenge will focus on the theme ‘Space Chase’ - an out-of-this-world a dventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

Children are challenged to read at least six library books over the school holidays, collecting rewards such as stickers, on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal.

The Challenge will launch in libraries on Saturday 13 July across England and Wales.

For competitions, book recommendations and special online badges and rewards, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Kids Week is back

Anne-Marie is a winner

Running throughout August, the Society of London Theatre’s annual Kids Week allows one child aged 16 or under to go free to a wide range of shows when accompanied by an adult paying full price, and up to two extra children can go for half price, per transaction. There are shows for all ages from under 5s to teens; this year’s include Aliens Love Underpants, Braniac Live, Disney’s The Lion King, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, The Worst Witch, Mamma Mia! and Wicked.

Children can also take part in a fantastic range of free activities and events on stage and backstage at many of the West End’s iconic venues, often with the cast and crew of the resident shows.

Tickets are booking fast at https://officiallondontheatre.com/kidsweek/

Congratulations to Anne-Marie Martin, founder of the successful diddi dance franchise, on scooping the most prestigious award bestowed by EWIF to become ‘Inspirational Woman in Franchising of the Year 2019’, sponsored by Little Voice.

Encouraging Women into Franchising’s annual award ceremony is designed to celebrate the successes of the industry’s best. At this year’s Awards for over 150 franchise professionals, Anne-Marie shone through the finalists to win her title.

She commented: “It is such an honour to have my work recognised in this most prestigious of categories and to be awarded the title of Inspirational Woman of the Year. Thank you to EWIF and all of its members for this amazing tribute!”

Anne-Marie has worked tirelessly to grow diddi dance to the national success it is today. From her first class in southeast London 15 years ago, diddi dance has grown to become the only pre-school dance class in the UK offering 16 different dance styles, with a new style adopted each half term.

Using various dancing games and exercises, bells, hoops and dance ribbons to diddii dance’s own funky pop songs, little ones improve their rhythm and co-ordination, along with spatial awareness, creativity and gross motor skills.

EWIF is a not-for-profit organisation run entirely by volunteers, providing advice and guidance to anyone looking to break into the franchise industry. www.diddidance.com www.ewif.org

Your Local Travel Experts with Personal Service and Great Deals N From family friendly adventures to tailor-made and package holidays, with Not Just Travel you can sit back, relax and let us take care of everything.

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E D U C AT IO N N E W S Flummoxed by phonetics

Recycle with Michael

In a new survey of parents across Britain, an astonishing 89% admitted that the way the education system has changed in recent years has confused them; half don’t understand their child’s school report, or even know what SATs are.

Explore Learning’s research reveals a massive knowledge gap in what is one of the most important aspects in their children’s lives. The good news is that almost two thirds (62%) believe that the standard of education today is better than when they were young. The main reason for this is credited to better teachers with better training, more resources, and a bigger focus on children’s mental health. The 38% of parents who feel that today’s education system is worse, blame under-staffing and teachers’ high workloads, followed by a less rounded curriculum and the rise in class sizes.

Charlotte Gater, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning commented: “The government needs to provide clearer guidance when it comes to helping parents understand just what is going on with their children at school. It’s hard enough helping them with their homework, let alone getting to grips with new academic terms and changes happening in the curriculum every few years.”

Explore Learning teaches out of school English and maths for 4-14 year-olds through centres across the UK. For more information and free trial bookings, read more online. www.explorelearning.co.uk

Schools, Cub Scouts and families in London are being encouraged to go eco via The Salvation Army’s Recycle with Michael initiative, which is working with children to divert thousands of tonnes of reusable clothing and shoes away from landfill.

The Cub Scouts have launched a newly revised badge designed to teach the importance of environmental conservation in everyday life. Young Scouts wishing to obtain their unique badge must learn about and undertake activities across a broad spectrum of climate change subjects such as actively reducing energy and water usage in their own homes and schools, studying renewable energy alternatives, and practising responsible food/ home waste recycling. Qualifying projects include planting a tree, tidying waste land, picking litter and making a natural bird feeder.

Recycle with Michael offers plenty of inspiration, including where and how to recycle usable items instead of sending them to landfill. www.recyclewithmichael.co.uk www.scouts.org.uk/skillsforlife

BeBright in Sydenham BeBright Bunnies is a new day nursery in Sydenham which offers a safe, creative environment for young to learn and staff to thrive.

Committed to developing children and carers alike, BeBright Bunnies puts the wellbeing of all its people first and foremost. With decades of experience in childcare and a successful nursery in Brockley, BeBright bring their unique, creative approach to Sydenham.

BeBright Bunnies is all about giving space and opportunity for children to excel at what they do best - play, learn and grow. Conveniently located next to Lower Sydenham train station, the new purpose-built nursery has vibrant, colourful and spacious rooms for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers and a wonderful outdoor space.

Telephone 020 8658 4617 to book a visit. www.bebrightbunnies.co.uk

A rst-class education for girls aged 4 to 18, since 1887

Nothing should hold a girl back.

Visit us to discover how we develop fearless girls, happy and con dent about their futures.

Open events and taster days throughout the autumn.

Book online at www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net admissions@syd.gdst.net | 020 8557 7004 15 & 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL

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ED UC AT I ON N EWS

Starting Primary School the easy way

By Liat Hughes Joshi Starting primary school is a major milestone in your little one’s childhood and indeed in your life too. So how can you ease them into this big change and limit the potential for tears on the first day?

Here are a few tips to help you prepare your little one for their very first day at “big school”...

be going there to learn - teachers don’t expect any prior knowledge. Focus instead on non-academic ‘school ready’ skills: things like going to the loo independently and cleaning themselves afterwards, putting their own coat on and eating using cutlery. Being able to listen, sit still, share and follow instructions will make school life easier too.

Help your child get used to the idea of school

The day or two before the big day...

In the months approaching the big day, read books about going to school together - Janet Ahlberg’s Starting School or Lauren Child’s I am Absolutely Too Small for School are ideal. This will introduce them to what goes on and let you discuss school together, answering any questions your child might have.

Talk too about your own happy school memories or encourage an older sibling or friend to discuss the things they enjoy at their primary school.

Build familiarity with their new school Attending settling-in sessions is invaluable to build familiarity and demystify what school is all about. They’ll let your little one meet their teachers, see the classroom, dinner hall and loos, and at least a few prospective classmates.

Meanwhile, if you’re driving or walking past the school, point out positive features, such as the playground equipment.

Don’t worry about reading, writing and maths beforehand Many parents are concerned that their child can’t recognise letters or count before they begin school but remember this is what they’ll

Highlight the things they’re excited about, such as a toy that caught their eye in the reception classroom, or seeing the lovely teacher or their friend from nursery again. Pre-empt their anxieties too - these can be little things, for example, how to let the teacher know if they need the loo, or what happens if they don’t like any of the lunch options.

Double check where you are meant to be and when on the first day and what your child needs to bring with them. If you’ll be driving, work out where you’ll park - mum or dad spending 30 minutes getting flustered because you’re late and can’t find a space will not create a relaxed mood for day one.

The night before Ease the morning rush by getting everything ready now - uniform laid out, packed lunch made (if they aren’t having school lunches) and school bag packed.

Help the first morning run smoothly Getting kids from bedroom to classroom on time can be challenging even for the most organised parents. Minimise stress (and how many times you have to say ‘hurry up’) by putting away any toys or turning off screens that

are too distracting. Be clear with your child about what needs doing when and keep any messy eaters in PJs until breakfast is over, to avoid ruining that pristine first-day uniform.

It’s time to go in...

We all want that perfect first day photo but don’t make them late - and irritable - with endless attempts to get it. Stringing out your goodbyes for ages can end in tears that otherwise wouldn’t happen - simply remind them to have fun and that you’ll be there to collect them later and give them a hug. If they’re nervous or unsure, start a small ritual, perhaps putting a ‘kiss’ in their pocket for them to grab later if they’re missing you.

Don’t forget the tissues There’s a time and a place for concealing your own feelings from your children and if you’re upset or anxious, this is one of them! Try your best to wait until you’re out of sight before sobbing, otherwise you could confuse or upset your child unnecessarily. Once they’ve gone in, if the waterworks do roll, rest assured you probably won’t be the only one, so don’t worry about what other parents or teachers think!

About the author Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including New Old-fashioned Parenting and How to Unplug Your Child (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

Improve your child’s study skills

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to improve your child’s skills, develop their confidence and inspire a passion for learning.

Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Herne Hill Study Centre Juhi Prasad 020 8819 3857

FREE Families magazines For your nursery, school, cafe or shop - just ask editor@familiesse.co.uk

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This centre is Ofsted Registered. kumon.co.uk Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

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C LU B S & C L AS S E S

Summer Holiday Clubs HOLIDAY DROP OFF MULTI SPORTS CAMP

HOLIDAY DROP OFF MULTI SPORTS CAMPS

PERFORM SUMMER WORKSHOPS 29 July - 2 August in BLACKHEATH, 5-9 August in EAST DULWICH, and 19-23 August in BECKENHAM, 020 7255 9120, www.perform.org.uk/wizard Perform are taking children off to see the wizard this summer, singing and dancing down the yellow brick road on Wizard of Oz holiday courses. With colourful costumes, uplifting songs and dazzling dancing, your child will have the best fun of the summer bringing this story to life over five magical days. Ages 4-7, 10am3pm each day, bookable online.

Every school holiday including 8 July - 23 August at DULWICH COLLEGE SPORTS CLUB SE21, www.holidaydropoff.com Your children will have a blast at HDO’s fantastic multi-sports camps! Children from age 5+ can take part in a whole range of incredible indoor and outdoor sports to keep them happy and active through the school holidays, including swimming pool inflatable sessions and many new exciting activities www.holidaydropoff.com. If your children simply can’t wait for the holidays, you can book one of their amazing weekend party packages www.eventdropoff.com.

NIMBLE ARTS HOLIDAY CLUBS 22 July - 23 August and all other school holidays (except Christmas) in EAST DULWICH SE22, 0333 014 2576, www.nimblearts.co.uk Sign up your child for creative holiday fun where no two days are ever the same. Immersive adventure and arts activities are tailored around a different theme every day. Ages 4-11, open 8am-6.30pm, from £48 a day, sibling and full week discounts available.

GERALD MOORE GALLERY Mottingham Lane SE9 4RW, 020 8857 0488, https://geraldmooregallery.org Book your little artist into a daylong craft workshop where they will learn new skills, make new friends, and a memento to take home.

July workshops for 6-10 year-olds run from 9.30am-3pm, £50 per child or two for £90. August workshops for ages 5+ run from 10am-12noon and 1-3pm, £5 per child or two for £8.

ART DAY: PAINT, 10 July. Explore the world of paint in a jam-packed day full of colours. Ages 6-10.

NIMBLE ARTS

GERALD MOORE GALLERY

ART DAY: SCULPT, 17 July. Sculpt using a range of materials including clay and cast your own body parts. Ages 6-10.

ART DAY: BUILD, 24 July. Inspired by architecture, create buildings and design your own miniature garden. Ages 6-10.

WEST AFRICAN PRINT PENCIL CASES, 7 August, ages 5+.

POWERFUL PLANT POTS, 14 August, ages 5+.

SATURDAY ART CLUB, July and August. Ages 5-7yrs 9.30am11am, ages 8-11yrs 11.30am-1pm, £12.50 per child.

ALPHA HOLIDAY CLUBS School holidays in ELTHAM SE9, 020 8469 1888, www.thealphaclub.co.uk Alpha Holiday Club offers safe and professionally-run daylong childcare where children play, learn and explore a variety of creative activities, games, physical activities and local trips out.

Ages 3-11 years, open from 8am (earlier drop-offs available on request) to 6.30pm.

COMPUTER CODING WORKSHOPS IN DULWICH 29 July to 2 August and 12-16 August, 020 8090 1444, www.spark4kids.com Spark4Kids are running all-day holiday workshops that introduce children to computer coding through the medium of games.

Available are courses on Minecraft Modding, Roblox Coding, Robotics, Games Design, MicroBit & Arduino coding, Python, HTML/CSS, JavaScript and Unity/C# in a fun, engaging environment. Ages 5-7, 8-12 and 13-16 years.

STAGECOACH DULWICH SUMMER WORKSHOPS 5-9 and 12-16 August in DULWICH, 020 8949 4116, www.stagecoach.co.uk/dulwich Join Stagecoach’s talented team and create a wonderful show in just five days. Costume, lights and sound are all provided and the players perform for friends and family at the end. Main school ages 8-18, £195 per week, siblings £175. Early stages ages 4-7 £160 per week, siblings £140.

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lasses hool dance c funky presc oys for girls and b

Tiny Tots age 2.5-3

Little Aces Junior Champs Grand Slammers age 3-4

age 5-7

age 8-11

fun filled tennis games and activities indoors with sponge balls and mini tennis rackets classes held across SE London for more information and to book call Anne-Marie : 07973 982790 email: info@diddidance.com

FREE introductory session phone

07877 391005

www.tennis-4-kids.com email: gordon@tennis-4-kids.com

YES, I can touch-type

Touch-typing taught in just 10 hours

Summer Holiday Courses

With proper tuition children can learn to touch-type surprisingly quickly and, what’s more, enjoy the whole experience.

■ Improved speed and effectiveness in study.

■ Well presented work increases self-esteem.

■ There are particular benefits for those with dyslexia or dyspraxia.

Courses run in SYDENHAM

020 7515 1707 To find out more call:

email: info@yes-tuitionandtraining.co.uk or call Norman on 07961 427640

www.yes-tuitionandtraining.co.uk

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CLUB S & CLAS S ES

KRAV MAGA SELF DEFENCE FOR KIDS RTS

SPARK 4 KIDS

STAGE COACH

REALISTIC SELF DEFENCE

TENNIS 4 KIDS

REALISTIC SELF TRAINING FORDEFENCE 8-15 YEAR OLDS TRAINING 8-15 YEAR OLDS The course is taught in a funFOR environment Mondays 5:30-6:30pm

by highly recommended instructors from the European Federation of Krav Maga.

Adult classes are also available 3 times per week.

EUROPEAN FEDERATION OF

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SELF DEFENCE - SOUTH LONDON

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KRAV MAGA PERFORM

FUNKY MONKEY KEYBOARD CLASSES

Ho lid ay

TENNIS-4-KIDS 29 July - 15 August in EAST DULWICH, 07877 391005, www.tennis-4-kids.com/summer Rally round for a smashing time learning to play tennis with other children. Tennis-4-Kids run Junior sessions from 3-11 years old, giving children lots of fun learning basic to advanced tennis skills. The friendly coaches run small groups for total beginners and for the more experienced Junior. Lots of fun tennis related games and activities; all rackets and equipment provided.

St Martins Sports Hall, 155 Tulse Hill Road, SW2 3UP

Arts & Crafts

Cooking & Baking

Face Painting

Clu bs

Woodland Walks

FREEDOM ACADEMY PERFORMING ARTS 19-23 August in DULWICH, 07530 061 658, www.freedomacademy.co.uk Sing, dance, act and perform this summer with Freedom Academy. Toy Story, for ages 3-6 years is 9am12noon each day; Sing for ages 7-12 years is 9am-3.30pm each day.

INTENSIVE TOUCH TYPING School holidays and Saturday classes in SYDENHAM, 020 7515 1707 or 07961 427640, www.yes-tuitionandtraining.co.uk Learn a new skill with a touch typing courses run by YES. Children find them fun, and they work - most children are tapping away proficiently in just ten hours. Sessions can be booked to fit around other holiday commitments so children can progress at their own pace.

FUNKY MONKEY KEYBOARD CLASSES SUMMER WORKSHOPS 29 July - 9 August in HERNE HILL, SYDENHAM, BLACKHEATH and STREATHAM 01732 457 100 www.funkymonkey.info Wonderful one or five day workshops for beginner electronic keyboard enthusiasts with a different theme depending on the season - the perfect opportunity to try out the keyboard and make music the fun way. Children learn in small groups how to write and play notes C-G and try some famous tunes using electronic keyboards. It’s a wonderful, relaxed introduction to practical and theoretical music, and with games, quizzes and art activities all based around music thrown in for good measure, you’ll be amazed how much they can learn whilst having fun. £35 per day, £30 with sibling discount, £125 per week, £110 with sibling discount.

GLOBAL CAMPS School holidays at KELVIN GROVE SCHOOL, Sydenham SE26 6BB, www.globalcamps.co.uk Sports, outdoor education and languages for 4-11 year-olds. £24 a day includes snacks and activities; sibling discounts, breakfast and after-club available.

SOUTH EAST LONDON TENNIS CAMPS 22 July - 22 August, LADYWELL FIELDS tennis courts and Ladywell Centre sports hall, 0773 993 6999, www.southeastlondontennis.com Four-day blocks of tennis coaching, games and other team events with a mini tournament on the last day, all run by enthusiastic, professional coaches. Beginners and improvers welcome. Facilities are available for wet-weather activities if necessary. The camps are split into age groups for 4-6 year olds, 7-10s and 11-15s. From £15 a day/ £50 for each four day week.

YOUNGSTARS SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMP 23 July - 23 August, Eric Liddle Sports Centre, ELTHAM COLLEGE, www.young-stars.co.uk Youngstars camps offer fun, games and excitement through team-based sports including football, basketball, cricket, lacrosse, hockey, t-ball, tennis, rugby and athletics. To catch their breath, there are also structured arts and crafts activities.

Ages 5-12 years, open 8.30am-5.30pm, with half day options, from £16 per half day, sibling discounts available.

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Cinema Trips

Visit to Local Parks

Eltham CofE Primary School

Deansfield Primary School

Contact us now 020 8469 1888/ 07951 720737 email info@thealphaclub.co.uk Children from 3 years to 11 years.

Open 8am (ask for earlier start if needed), finish 6.30pm - Mon to Fri

LET'S DRUM! Established 2001

Forest Hill & Penge Drum School

6 Pro Drummers coaching adults & children

7 days a week/ 10am - 10pm including summer, all bank holidays & half terms

*100% success for Trinity College and Rock School Grades 1-8 - mostly with merit or distinction!

Experience the joy of creating!

Call or text now! 07930 415185 www.schoolofrhythm.com

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The Bookseller Crow

is a fantastic, volume stuffed shop run by some of the most knowledgeable bookworms in the business.

Call in for the feel of a real bookshop, or if you’re too busy, pick up the phone or head to their website for a fast mailorder service. Justine Crow recommends this month’s best titles.

My summer reading recommendations have an extra aspect this time around, thanks to an urge to look skyward on a clear, warm evening. No, I haven’t toppled onto my back in the dark after too much sangria (though give it time). As a kid raised in an atmosphere of lunar obsession, from Smash instant mash ads fronted by tin-can Martians, to the Clangers and David Bowie, I’m particularly partial to these significant birthday celebrations of the Moon Landing this year. The theme from Star Trek was a meme in our house before memes were even invented, from the moment my little sister said in a stern four year old’s voice: “Space... the final frontier... to bogie-ly go...” with one finger absently exploring her nostril.

THIS WAY TO TREASURE ISLAND by Lizzy Stewart - Frances Lincoln rrp £11.99. And so we are about to boldly go on holiday with Matilda and her dad, who get along splendidly even though the pair are very different. She is methodical, he’s... well... a bit distracted. Once they arrive at a cracking-looking beach, Matilda whips out a map and announces that she has a plan. After taking the (very VERY) scenic route (dads always do), they each go their separate ways to see who gets to the “big red X” that marks the spot first, but somehow they end up finding the treasure together. And what a kaleidoscopically glorious find! In fact, the whole production is a treasure look no further for the most beautiful picture book so far this year.

BOOK OF THE MOON by Laura Cowan, illustrated by Diana Toledano - Usborne rrp £12.99.

Wherever you are with the tiddlers this holiday, get them thinking about the ultimate reading light up there, with yarns that have been passed around for hundreds of years as well as the modern day tales of daring when the Apollo missions dominated the news and as a curious child admittedly I wasn’t the sharpest hook in the tackle box - I would look at photos of astronauts and ponder where they pulled the chain on the special loo inside their suit.

HOW TO BE ON THE MOON by Viviane Schwarz - Walker rrp £11.99. An old friend of this page, the accomplished author of the delightful There Are Cats in this Book as well as Counting With Tiny Cat has produced a companion adventure to How to Find Gold. This time Anna and Crocodile pack a picnic and decide to make their very own rocket but will they actually make it?

Her nimble illustrations never disappoint and I especially like the picture of them both in their space suits, the transparent visor on Crocodile’s

helmet helpfully elongated to accommodate his long snout and gnashers, as they gaze at the distant earth. Ah, now I’ve given the game away!

THE BUG COLLECTOR by Alex G Griffiths Andersen rrp £12.99. Meanwhile, back down on terra firma again the night sky is abuzz with life when an avid young scientist, fired up by a visit to a wildlife museum with his granddad, decides to make his own live display of insects. The only problem is, after a day spent netting and bagging every fluttering, wriggling, scuttling creature he can, night falls with an eerie silence. Fortunately Gramps returns and sets the hoard of mini beasts free for all the children to enjoy whilst explaining why each and every one (mini beast, not child) is important to the eco system. George agrees that watching bugs in their natural habitat is best.

There’s just one issue I have here - none of the many kids present at the happy ending are itching their heads. In reality, I can guarantee that at least one or two of those tykes have their very own collection of insects right behind the ears, and normally would be scratching like hounds.

PENGUINAUT! by Marcie Colleen, illustrated by Emma Yarlett - Scholastic rrp £6.99. No sooner back down, than we ascend once more. This time it’s the prize-winning tale of a small penguin with an inferiority complex whose catchphrase “I can do it myself” may just have more than a smidgen of resonance for any adults out there watching.

LOOK UP! by Nathan Bryon - Puffin rrp £6.99.

From a co-writer of Rastamouse, we meet Rocket who is bonkers about space. If only she can persuade her brother Jamal to stop looking at his phone and cast an eye upwards instead, then he might just learn a thing or two about what goes on in a universe beyond the edges of a digital screen.

WHERE’S MR ASTRONAUT? by Ingela P Arrhenius - Nosy Crow rrp £6.99. Where’s Mr Lion?

Mr Owl? Mrs Hen? This is a timely (nothing publishers like more than an anniversary) addition to a great series of arty board books that come with felt flaps for the teeny tiniest of travellers’ explorative digits.

50 THINGS TO SEE IN THE SKY by Sarah Barker, illustrated by Maria Nilsson - Anova rrp £9.99. Ooooh, and I do like a guide by a pukka scientist and this one has collaborated with NASA in the past so expect ‘supergiant red stars,’ the Space Station, ice volcanoes, alien storms, quasars and lots and lots of cheese. Okay. No cheese. I may just be hungry after all that fresh galactic air out there.

THE GOOD THIEVES by Katherine Rundell -

Bloomsbury rrp £12.99. This author has become the go-to recommender (should such a word exist) for us booksellers when confronted by an exasperated parent and bored child who has “read eeeeeeeeeverything” on the planet so thank the heavens she’s pulled her finger out yet again with a heist novel (yesssssss!) to rescue us all.

THE COSMIC ATLAS OF ALFIE FLEET by Martin Howard, illustrated by Chris Mould - Oxford rrp £6.99. Alfie looks as if he has been made out of sticks and string and is hardly the kind of lad you’d expect to end up zooming around various worlds, from Smallhenge to a Sea of Bling, on the back of a moped called Betsy, writing travel reviews with one - cue curly Euro accent - Professor BowellMouvement (though I’m not entirely convinced that he’s really French). But that’s what happens when you lose a fortune on the stock market just as you need to buy your mum a foot spa for her birthday.

THE ADVENTURES OF HARRY STEVENSON by Ali Pye - Simon & Schuster rrp £5.99. Some early reading here to take away on a trip with a new kind of superhero. How IS it that Billy’s favourite pet, who is mainly just a furry, sleep-fuddled and forever hungry, um, Tribble, gets to go on so many adventures?

THE MISSING BOOKSHOP by Katie Clapham, illustrated by Kirsti Beautyman - Little Tiger Press £7.99. From a new imprint, Stripes, a range of simple stories for new readers. Milly just can’t get enough of her favourite shop run by Mrs Minty, an experienced purveyor of fine reads. But one day, she heads on down the street for her fix of faraway lands and magical beasts and discovers that - and I can hardly bring myself to say this - the bookshop has GONE. Good grief, kids’ fiction just gets scarier and scarier these days, eh? And yet you may have noticed that for once, after all the centuries that I have been providing this page for your delectation, there are zero adult recommendations. That’s because this time, for all your seasonal getaway requirements, I want you to get off your screen-shaped backsides and into your southeast London indy bookshops and ask them for something fabulous to read. All of us real Mrs Mintys (and Misters) are struggling terribly at the moment and, call me a hoary old pessimist (hey, less of the ‘old’), if you guys don’t spend your money locally, you may soon find that the only thing left lighting up your high street is the moon.

The Bookseller Crow, 50 Westow St. Crystal Palace, London SE19 3AF Telephone: 020 8771 8831 email: info@booksellercrow.co.uk Twitter @booksellercrow www.booksellercrow.co.uk 8 Families South East

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What’sNew BIC Kids’ big picture

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This summer, the BIC® KIDS Young Artist Award is giving proud parents the opportunity to see their child’s drawings graduate from the fridge door to billboards.

Open to all 5 to 11-year-olds, entrants are encouraged to exercise their artistic flair, let their imaginations run wild and draw with complete freedom using pencils, pens and/ or crayons.

Judges will award points for everything from creativity and use of colour, to composition and subject matter. An expert judging panel will select 13 finalists to represent their region, with their work being displayed on their very own, local billboards from late August. A public vote will then decide the ultimate winner, whose drawing will go nationwide in late September and win a creative art party for up to 10 people.

Entries are open from 1 July to 4 August. www.bickids.co.uk/youngartist

Childs Farm is one of the best brands out there for vegans, sensitive and eczema prone skin; for babies and beyond. The paediatricianapproved suncare range is free from artificial colours, parabens and mineral oils, instead using largely sourced naturally derived ingredients. Stay comfortable with Childs Farm suncreams, lotions, roll-ons and sprays, priced from £5. www.childsfarm.com

Slumbersac babies are cool While summer sunshine is most welcome, it is not just uncomfortable but can be potentially dangerous for small babies who can’t yet regulate their own temperature.

Slumbersac’s award-winning muslin sleeping bags are made from naturally breathable bamboo muslin to help keep babies cool and comfortable. In a selection of designs for 0-10 year-olds, the sleeping bags are priced from £17.99. www.slumbersac.co.uk

To infinity and beyond (or to the park and back at least...) To coincide with the cinema release of Disney Pixar’s Toy Story 4, Halfords have launched a new collection of children’s bikes, balance bikes and scooters, all featuring the legendary Buzz Lightyear and priced £18 to £110. www.halfords.com

Net gains When I was a child, my grandmother used to whip out a net bag for her groceries. With single-use plastic now all out of favour, these woven, naturally dyed, stretchy net bags are just the job for the weekly shop.

Four colours to choose from including pink, if you must; £7 from Wearth London. www.wearthlondon.com

London bookends So, you’ve read Justine’s review page and bought the books - wouldn’t they look great between these jolly bookends which celebrate our great city? £19 from The Contemporary Home. www.tch.net

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CATFORD VEGAN FESTIVAL

ON BLACKHEATH

RAIN OR SHINE FESTIVAL

What’sOn D I AR Y DAT ES FO R G R OWNUP S CATFORD VEGAN FESTIVAL 14 July, CATFORD BROADWAY SE6 4SP, www.catfordfoodmarket.com Southeast London’s only all-day vegan festival features all kinds of food you might not know can be plant-based, from Scandinavian open sandwiches, Filipino classics and jerk chik’n, to a range of vegan cheeses. Now in its second year, the festival shows that meat and dairy free doesn’t mean taste free. Alongside the eats, non-food traders will offer much-coveted Catford hoodies and t-shirts alongside vegan cosmetics, homeware, craft and plants. There’ll also be free children’s activities, live music and an urban picnic area. 10am-5pm, admission free.

A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO FAMILY HISTORY 16 July, ALLEYN’S SCHOOL. Townley Road SE22 8SU, www.alleyns.org.uk/celebrate400 Archivist Nicola Waddington will lead a chronological journey revealing methods and approaches to family history research, including how to keep records, how to verify your information and possible traps and pitfalls along the way. The workshop is part of ‘Alleyn’s 400’ lectures, workshops and performances in celebration of the school’s history. 1.30-4.30pm, free but book first.

T H E G RE AT O UT D OO RS ONBLACKHEATH 13-14 July BLACKHEATH SE3, www.onblackheath.com ONBlackheath is back, with fun-filled activities for the whole family, mouth-watering food and world-class live music.

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ONCE UPON A CASTLE AT HEVER

performing on Sunday 14 July. Also on the line-up - prolific hip-hop group The Roots, soulful sensation Rag’n’Bone Man, multi-platinum singer James Morrison, one of Britain’s biggest reggae bands UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Astro, R&B hit makers Soul II Soul and many more. Doors open 12noon. Day and weekend tickets available - book first.

PICNIC IN THE PARK 14 July, GRANGEWOOD PARK, Grangewood Road, Thornton Heath SE25 6TW, www.grangewoodpark.co.uk Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in the park, with a treasure hunt, sports activities, a Bake Off challenge, photo competition, entertainers, stalls, live music and storytelling, bouncy castle, facepainting, and more. 1-5pm, free entry.

RAIN OR SHINE FESTIVAL 27+28 July, BURGESS PARK, Wells Way, Camberwell SE5 0PX, www.theatredeli.co.uk/rainorshine Rain or Shine is a free, outdoor festival of circus, theatre, and storytelling for families and the young at heart, set in Burgess Park.

Enjoy two days of workshops, music, circus and family-friendly theatre designed for children of all ages.

For the second year in a row, Theatre Deli are bringing nationally touring aerial theatre companies and local favourites alike to engage the southeast London community. Southwark-based Mandinga Arts have long had a partnership with Theatre Deli, hosting a parade of costumes and dance for the Dia de los Muertos Festival and unmissable circus and performance workshops for the inaugural Rain or Shine. Join them as they return with new workshops and performances - come rain or shine! Admission free - check the festival website for full details.

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MISSION: INVERTEBRATE

SPA VALLEY RAILWAY

CAMP BESTIVAL 2019

GERALD MOORE GALLERY

MYCENAE HOUSE & GARDEN

MoreWhat’sOn LAMBETH COUNTRY SHOW

MISSION: INVERTEBRATE

RACING TO A CURE

20+21 July, BROCKWELL PARK, Herne Hill SE24 9BJ, www.lambethcountryshow.co.uk All the attractions of a traditional country show: sheep and owl displays, home grown vegetable and flower competitions, an abundance of craft and food stalls and even an onsite farm. Music always plays a big part of the show too, featuring a mix of dub, Afro-beat, disco, jazz, folk, ska and soul. Open noon - 8pm, admission free.

31 July - 29 August, LONDON’S ROYAL PARKS, www.royalparks.org.uk/missioninvertebrate Uncover the fascinating world of invertebrates which live in London’s royal parks this summer, from bees and beetles to snails and spiders, as The Royal Parks’ Mission: Invertebrate goes on the road. Join a bug hunt, jump onboard the Bugmobile and explore insect habitats, learn fascinating critter facts during interactive story-telling and make bug-inspired crafts to take home.

Budding young environmentalists will meet the hidden heroes of the parks and learn about the vital roles they play as recyclers, pollinators and sources of food. The summer roadshow is suitable for ages 3-11- and is free. See the event website for full venue and date details.

Two charity events this summer are calling on movers of all ages to support vital research: Walk for Parkinson's on 20 July in Greenwich Park www.parkinsons.org.uk/walk; and Cancer Research UK Race for Life on 21 July in Crystal Palace Park, www.raceforlife.org..

LONDON WILDLIFE TRUST EVENTS VARIOUS VENUES, www.wildlondon.org.uk WONDERFUL WOODLAND AT NEW CROSS GATE CUTTING, 24 July. Learn about woodland wildlife through a collection of family fun interactive activities and games.

11am-12.30pm, free drop-in. Entrance on Vesta Road SE4 2NR. BUG DAY AT SYDENHAM HILL WOOD, 25 July. If you love bees, butterflies, dragonflies, beetles, bugs, slugs and pond dipping, you will love bug day! A family-friendly day to celebrate the amazing invertebrates that are so vital to our world, as part of London National Park City Week. 11am-2pm, free, entrance on Cox’s Walk SE26 6SB.

HEVER CASTLE HEVER CASTLE & GARDENS, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG, 01732 865224, www.hevercastle.co.uk Explore the historic Castle and grounds of the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, where children can go wild in the Tudor Towers or Acorn Dell play areas. Gardens open 10.30am, castle 12noon, exit 4.30pm. Admission £17.74 adults, under 5s free, £9.95 children, £46.85 families.

ONCE UPON A CASTLE, 17+28 July. Find a Princess’ missing cat and meet Flame the dragon on an adventure through the gardens in search of a new shield, where you will meet more fairy tale creatures along the way. There will also be a chance to experience what it was like to live in Tudor England with displays of authentic Tudor crafts, armour making and cookery; and live demonstrations of archery and crossbow. The popular Summer Jousting Tournament will be in full swing, offering a thrilling display of brave knights riding the quintain, spearing heads, and lancing rings followed by foot combat with weapons of their choice.

CASTLE CANINE, 3+4 August. Whether you have a dog or just love them, enjoy displays and entertainment from a variety of different breeds, enter your own pooch into competitions, meet canine expert and browse the stalls. Admission £9.40 children, £14.95 adults, families £41.10, dogs free.

WWT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT, 020 8409 4400, www.wwt.org.uk From birdwatchers to families there is plenty to discover all year round. With experiences to suit all ages offering access to a huge variety of wildlife, WWT offers an award-winning day out. Open 9.30am-5.30pm daily, admission £8.70 children, £14.30 adults, £39.10 families.

WEEKEND FAMILY ACTIVITIES, until 14 July. Some of the biggest wonders come in small packages. You can find all sorts lurking under stones, logs, in bushes and trees. Join a WWT warden to get up and close to the tiny world of invertebrates and learn how to identify different species including bees, butterflies and crickets.

SPRINGWATCH EXPERIENCE, until 20 July. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a wildlife presenter? Grab a cue card, learn from the information provided and present your wildlife knowledge to camera, whilst sitting on a Springwatchinspired sofa!

WETLAND EXPLORERS, until 1 September. Head to Wetland HQ, pick up a trail map and set off into the wild to get wet and muddy and learn explorer skills through wild play challenges and the ‘Swamp Survival Squad’. It’s a wild day out for the whole family.

12 Families South East

SPA VALLEY RAILWAY From West Station, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QY, 01892 537715, www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk Book some affordable fun for the whole family with the ‘Kids for a Quid’ promotion on the Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells on Thursdays throughout July. Experience a steam or heritage diesel train journey, stopping off and exploring destinations along the line including Royal Tunbridge Wells, Eridge and Groombridge. Family tickets £26 for unlimited travel all day - book online.

CAMP BESTIVAL 2019 25-28 July, LULWORTH CASTLE, East Lulworth, Dorset, www.campbestival.net Camp Bestival’s four-day festi-holiday offers the whole family hundreds of things to see and do. From headliners Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Jess Glynne and Annie Mac, family fun with Mr Tumble, Mister Maker and Shaun The Sheep, to science shows and circus workshops, there’s so much for children of all ages to enjoy.

Tree-climbing, woodland workshops, helter skelters, giant bubble workshops and face painting for the kids through to teens having poetry slams, teen-only spinning classes, sleeping out under the stars and How To... workshops, there really is something for everyone.

Parents are particularly spoilt at Camp Bestival; well, they do buy the tickets! Amazing live acts and DJs, raves, discos, parties, comedy, literary talks, parenting advice and stories, cocktails, award-winning street food, likeminded people all in a big old field by a castle and the sea.

E VEN TS AND MU SEU MS SUMMER MILE FAMILY RACEDAY AT ASCOT 13 July, ROYAL ASCOT, High Street, Ascot, Berks SL5 7JX, www.ascot.co.uk Ascot Racecourse is in full midsummer bloom and the pace is relaxed. There is a competitive seven-race card, live music, elegant picnic lawns, and eclectic Champagne and cocktail bars to enjoy at your leisure. Summer Mile Family Raceday also features a dedicated and separate family zone with a host of free attractions to thrill children aged 4-15. Free workshops feature alongside clip clop pony and fairground rides, and a stage provides live music between races. Gates open 11am, adult tickets from £26, all under 18s tickets free per paying adult, and under 12s can also enjoy free food at certain outlets in the family enclosure.

GERALD MOORE GALLERY Mottingham Lane SE9 4RW, 020 8857 0488, www.geraldmooregallery.org Southeast London’s Gerald Moore Gallery is a contemporary art gallery which brings together a rich mix of people to offer innovative learning opportunities and foster meaningful experiences through art. For children’s summer holiday workshops, see pages 6 and 7.

FAMILY DAY CRAFTERNOONS, every Tuesday in July and August. Drop in for free family art activities from 2-4pm.

THE HORNIMAN MUSEUM HORNIMAN MUSEUM and gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ, 020 8699 1872, www.horniman.ac.uk The museum’s music gallery and hands-on base, regular weekend and holiday drop-ins and workshops allow family visitors to explore the collection through arts and crafts, music, stories and hands-on sessions. All this within 16 acres of beautiful green space which has the oldest nature trail in London, an animal corner, a butterfly house, a crazy golf course and a Farmers’ Market every Saturday morning. Museum open 10.30am-5.30pm daily, admission free, charges apply for special exhibitions and the aquarium.

BRICK WONDERS, until 27 October. Discover amazing wonders from around the world made entirely from LEGO bricks. From an ancient Egyptian pyramid to Old London Bridge, and from the natural wonder of a coral reef to the modern marvel of the international space station, travel through history and explore over 70 models made using half a million LEGO bricks. Build your imagination at the interactive play areas, and don’t miss two special models of Horniman icons, designed especially for the show. Admission £5 children, £9 adults, £20 families.

MY MODEL CITY, 6 July - 1 September. What might the city of the future look like? And whose ideas, needs and dreams should shape it? My Model City will become the testing ground for a new vision of urban life, explored through an installation created by young people from Peckham Platform and the Horniman, in collaboration with muf architecture/art. Free.

TRINITY LABAN DANCE FESTIVAL, 7 July. Enjoy a day of dance performances and workshops for all the family. Bring your dancing shoes and join in the fun! 12 noon - 5pm, free.

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENTS, 24 July - 30 August. Join in with sessions of pond-dipping, hands-on events, art workshops and storytelling - check the museum website for full dates and details.

FAMILY DAY RAVE, 28 July. Award-winning family favourites Big Fish Little Fish are back and taking over the Horniman Gardens for an afternoon of outdoor festival style raving fun. Dance outside with your family under bubbles and balloons to acid house, techno and drum and bass. With iconic DJ Alex Paterson (The Orb) and drum and bass legend Aphrodite on the decks plus Big Fish Little Fish residents Baker and Beale. 2-6pm, children £12.50, adults £15.

SUMMER WELLY WALK, 3 August. Get your wellies on and follow the Horniman Nature Trail to explore the animals, insects and plants that thrive there in spring. Have a go at sweep-netting, tree-beating and identifying what you discover. Suitable for children aged 5+, 1.45-3.30pm, children £2.50, adults £5.

HORNIMAN KIDS’ SLEEPOVER, 17-18 August. Roll out your sleeping bag and camp out in the galleries for an unforgettable night at the museum full of fun activities, surprises and exciting exploration. From 7pm Saturday, children £50, adults £50.

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MYCENAE HOUSE AND GARDENS 90 Mycenae Road, Blackheath SE3 7SE, www.mycenaehouse.co.uk Mycenae House is an historic building within the grounds of beautiful public gardens, filled with activities for local families and adults, and a cafe/ bar. Check the website for full summer holiday listings.

PARKSFEST SUMMER SUNDAY, 28 July. A fun-filled, family focused afternoon will include live music, dance, theatre, arts and crafts; a packed programme of workshops and activities, and food and drink.

This is Mycenae House’s sixth Summer Sunday Extravaganza, run as part of Greenwich PARKSfest.

Noon-5.30pm, admission free.

ROYAL MUSEUMS GREENWICH National Maritime Museum, Queen’s House, Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark, Greenwich SE10, 020 8858 4422, www.rmg.co.uk Royal Museums Greenwich holds the world’s largest maritime collection. It is housed in historic buildings forming part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site and incorporates the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the 17th-century Queen’s House, and Cutty Sark. Weekend performances and workshops entertain family visitors, and general admission is free; some buildings, special exhibitions and events have an admission fee.

THE MOON, 19 July - 5 January. To celebrate fifty years since NASA’s Apollo 11 mission landed the first humans on the Moon, the National Maritime Museum is staging the UK’s biggest exhibition dedicated to Earth’s nearest celestial neighbour. Featuring objects from national and international museums and private collections, the exhibition presents a cultural and scientific relationship with the Moon over time and across civilisations. Tickets £5.85 children, £9 adults.

CUTTY SARK CUTTY SARK, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT, 020 8858 2698, www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark The world famous 19th century tea clipper offers visitors four levels to explore. Take in the views from the main deck and steer at the ship’s wheel, meet the crew who worked on board, explore the various cargoes from wool to whiskey, and see how tea was loaded on board through interactive displays, props, information boards and animations. Family friendly events run at weekends and during school holidays.

Open 10am-5pm daily, admission from £6.30 children, £12.15 adults, from £24 families.

Bundled tickets are available with the other Royal Museum Greenwich attractions.

MOON KITES, 3+4 August. Celebrate the National Maritime Museum’s new moon exhibition by creating a traditional Malaysian moon kite inspired by Cutty Sark’s voyages. 11.30am, and 2pm starts, free with admission.

HUNGRY FISH, 7+8 August. Swimming is hard work and every now and then a fish needs a snack!

Come and craft some very hungry fish and their food in this make and take workshop. 11.30am, and 2pm starts, free with admission.

PLASTIC BAG WEAVING, 21+22 August. Try some eco-crafting by upcycling ordinary plastic bags into wonderful woven creations. 11.30am, and 2pm starts, free with admission.

THE FOUNDLING MUSEUM 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ, 020 7841 3600, www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Britain’s first home for abandoned children and London’s first public art gallery reveals the stories of the Foundling Hospital’s founder Thomas Coram, the artist William Hogarth and composer George Frideric Handel. Open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Saturdays and from 11am Sundays. Admission free for children, from £12 adults.

OBJECT HANDLING SESSIONS, 27 July and 30 August. Get closer to the Museum’s Collections at the free handling sessions, guided by expert staff. 2pm, free with admission.

What's On this Summer

Holiday Workshops Wednesdays 10, 17 + 24 July for 6-10 year-olds Wednesdays 7+14 August for ages 5+

Plus

Family Day Crafternoons Saturday Art Clubs

FULHAM PALACE Bishop’s Avenue, Fulham SW6 6EA, 020 7736 3233, www.fulhampalace.org The Museum of Fulham Palace charts the long history of the palace site, from Prehistoric times and Roman settlement, through Medieval, Tudor, Georgian and Victorian bishops to the present day. The museum collection includes paintings, archaeology and artefacts. Open noon-4pm Sundays, 12.30-3.30pm Mondays to Thursdays, admission free.

SUMMER SEEKERS, Mondays and Tuesdays 22 July - 27 August. Make the most of the summer weather; each week will explore a different aspect of the Palace with games, crafts, stories and songs.

10.30-11.30am.

CRAFT AT THE PALACE, 7, 14, 21, 28 August. Join a drop in session: each week will feature a different masterpiece, from mosaics to squirrel puppets. 1-3pm.

BISHOP FOR A DAY, 25 August. A free family fun day - learn about the Bishops of London who called Fulham Palace their home, create a mitre and meet the top 12 Bishops. 11am-3pm.

Mottingham Lane, London SE9 4RW

To book or reserve visit www.geraldmooregallery.org

SCIENCE MUSEUM SCIENCE MUSEUM, Exhibition Road SW7 2DD, 0870 870 4868, www.sciencemuseum.org.uk The Science Museum makes sense of the science that shapes our lives, sparking curiosity, releasing creativity and changing the future by engaging people of all generations and backgrounds in science, engineering, medicine, technology, design and enterprise. Open daily 10am-6pm except 24-26 December. General admission free; tickets required for some events and special exhibitions.

DRIVERLESS; WHO IS IN CONTROL? until October. Get up close with examples of real self-driving vehicles. From self-driving cars to autonomous flying drones and smart underwater vehicles like the Autosub Long Range fleet which includes ‘Boaty McBoatface’, this new exhibition explores how much of the seemingly futuristic technology already exists and extends far beyond the cars we’re familiar with, how much control we’re willing to transfer to them and how their wider deployment could shape our habits, behaviour and society. Admission free.

MUSEUM OF LONDON MUSEUM OF LONDON, 150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN, www.museumoflondon.org.uk From specially-designed interactive children’s galleries, free activity bags and stimulating online games, as well as all-important details like high chairs and babychanging spaces, the Museum of London is a perfect fun family venue. Open 10am-6pm daily, admission free.

BEASTS OF LONDON, until 5 January 2020. Step into an immersive tour through London’s history, narrated by the animals who once lived here. Beasts of London explores the fascinating role animals have played in shaping the capital. Be guided through time, from the Roman era through Medieval London and right up to present day, narrated by the beasts themselves. Discover how animals - from lions and elephants, to horses, rats and pigeons - have shaped the city and its beastly history. Ages 7+, family tickets from £20.

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UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL SOUTHBANK

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE

BRIANIAC LIVE!

ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND

MoreWhat’sOn MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS, Warehouse 1, West India Quay E14 4AL, www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands Find out more about London’s history, through displays covering events such as the Great Plague, Londoners’ jobs and occupations, and Roman life. Open daily 10am-6pm, admission free. On Sundays, museum hosts help visitors explore the galleries through fun, hands-on activities at 11am and 2pm.

SECRET RIVERS, until 27 October. For centuries Londoners have existed beside a series of waterways, which have shaped the city and people within it. Discover the forgotten secrets and stories of London’s rivers, streams and brooks through excavated artefacts, paintings, prints and contemporary art. Ages 5+, free.

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE Bow Street, Covent Garden WC2E 9DD, 020 7304 4000, www.roh.org.uk FAMILY SUNDAY: FAMILY PRIDE, 7 July. Visit a family festival packed with pride at the Royal Opera House - a day of celebration, conversation, singing, dancing and making. The morning after the Pride in London parade continues the festivities with family-friendly activities that welcome you celebrate the triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community. Discover the worlds of opera and ballet and take part in a Big Tea Dance, making activities and dressing-up. Family Pride gives everyone the chance to create, and explore what Pride means. 11.30am-2.30pm, tickets from £8.

FAMILY SUNDAY: FABULOUS CREATURES, 28 July. Step into the magical worlds of opera and ballet and discover some fabulous creatures. Opera and ballet are full of fabulous creatures from magically transformed swans and the Firebird to dragons, water goblins and the Minotaur - not to mention fantastical human creatures such as mermaids and fairy godmothers. From pop-up performances and singing workshops, to dancing and making with Royal Opera House artists, the day will be full of surprises, for children aged 3 and over and their families. 11am - 3pm, tickets from £8.

SOUTHBANK SOUTHBANK CENTRE, Belvedere Road SE1 8XX, 020 3879 9555, www.southbankcentre.co.uk TALES OF THE TURNTABLE, 15-26 August at Queen Elizabeth Hall. Budding young DJ Eric and his grandfather George find out they have more in common than they once thought. Inspired by moments from Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure and Back to the Future, George winds back the clock through his gramophone to show Eric the importance of what has come before. Join the pair on an adventure through time - from the early origins of hip-hop, funk and soul through to disco, house and rap. Tickets £25.

PEPPA PIG: MY FIRST CONCERT, 14-26 August at the Royal Festival Hall. Everyone’s favourite Pig family is back, leading an interactive introduction to live orchestra. Watch as Daddy Pig and Mummy Pig learn how to conduct an orchestra, exploring all the different sounds that instruments make together. Tickets from £12 children, £16 adults.

MALORIE BLACKMAN IN CONVERSATION, 8 September at Queen Elizabeth Hall. 2pm, tickets £10. The wait is over for the next novel in the groundbreaking young adult fiction series Noughts & Crosses - join the author herself for an introduction to Crossfire. Hear more from an author whose stories have survived and impacted generations, and shed necessary light on the social injustices present in the world. 2pm, tickets £10.

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM V&A MUSEUM, Cromwell Road SW7 2RL, 020 7942 2000, www.vam.ac.uk Pick up a family trail from the Information Desk and explore the museum through puzzles, drawing and observation. Suitable for 7-12 year-olds. There are also hundreds of exciting hands-on exhibits containing plenty to touch and try out. Museum open 10am-5.45pm daily, admission free.

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QUEEN VICTORIA & PRINCE ALBERT’S BICENTENARY, until 1 September. Celebrate the 200th anniversary of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s births with a season of events and displays, including a new addition to the jewellery collection - Queen Victoria’s stunning sapphire and diamond coronet, now on display.

On Saturdays, costumed guides take visitors on a promenade performance, talking about life in Victorian times as shown in the exhibition.

BEATRIX POTTER’S ART, until 17 November. As a young girl, Beatrix Potter showed keen design skills. Track the development of Potter’s artistry through examples of her childhood sketches and domestic projects alongside her adored, famous illustrations that came later.

BACK-PACKS, Saturdays. Pick up a back pack and explore the museum with fantastic jigsaws, stories, puzzles and games.

10.30am-5pm.

POP-UP PERFORMANCES: VICTORIA AND ALBERT, Saturdays until 31 August. Dig up some of the secrets and surprises of the museum’s story with Queen Victoria or Prince Albert and Jim the Dog and find out about life in Victorian times along the way. This is a promenade performance for all the family that moves around the museum. 11am, 1 and 3pm, free.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200, www.museumofchildhood.org.uk This gem of a museum houses dolls, dolls’ houses, puppets, teddy bears, games, childcare, clothing, furniture and art and photography. Everyday drop-in activities include storytelling, arts and crafts, and trails. There’s dressing-up, role play and an under 3s area, an indoor sandpit, and regular special events. Open 10am-5.45pm daily, admission free.

PLAYING WITH BUILDINGS, until March 2020.

Seventy first-year BSc Architecture students from UEL re-think how visitors might interact with the museum and designed new inventive spaces for playing and learning. Pupils from Morpeth Secondary School and St Johns Primary School have user tested their prototype designs and created their own inventive responses.

Belvedere Road Coach Park, London, SE1 8XX, 0333 344 4167, www.underbellyfestival.com A wealth of comedy, music and family performances burst to life at this year’s Underbelly Festival at the Southbank. See the full line up on the festival website.

SHAKESPEARIENCE, until 14 July. Five-star smash-hit Shakespearience returns! The Bard’s best-loved works burst into life in a high-octane, whistle-stop tour of three of Shakespeare’s plays, the perfect introduction for the next generation of budding Romeos and Juliets. Ages 5+, tickets from £11.50.

ELMER THE PATCHWORK ELEPHANT, 20+21 July. Elephants, as everyone knows, are big, have trunks, and are grey. But Elmer is a patchwork of brilliant colours! His fun-loving and cheerful personality keeps everyone in a playful mood, until the day he gets tired of being different and tries to blend in with the herd. Ages 1+, tickets from £11.50.

MONSKI MOUSE’S BABY DISCO DANCE HALL, until 28 July.

Why toddle when you can dance, dance, dance! This international-hit, early childhood event lets parents and children five and under loose on the dance floor, in this friendliest of discos.

Tickets from £8.50.

SHARK IN THE PARK, 23-28 July. Featuring Shark in the Park, Shark in the Dark and Shark in the Park on a Windy Day - this fin-tastic, family musical follows Timothy Pope (and his telescope!) on three exciting adventures. Ages 2-7, tickets from £11.50.

TWIRLYWOOS LIVE, 3-31 August. Featuring all the favourite characters from the hit TV show, expect mischief, music and plenty of surprises as the Twirlywoos embark on a new adventure onboard their Big Red Boat. With beautifully inventive puppetry, Twirlywoos Live! promises to be a laugh-out-loud treat for little ones. Ages 1+, tickets from £14.50.

MORGAN & WEST’S MAGIC SHOW, until 1 September. Witness a mountain of mysterious magic, a hatful of hyper-reality, and a truck full of tricks and tea. Mixing brain boggling illusion and good old fashioned tom-foolery, Morgan & West present a show for all the family, where magic and silliness abound! Fun for ages five to 105, tickets from £10.25.

THE BRITISH LIBRARY 96 Euston Road NW1 2DB, 01937 456030, www.bl.uk The British Library is open to everyone and offers Reading Rooms for research and study, exhibitions and events for curious people of all ages, tours and great places to eat, drink and shop. Open 9.30am - 8pm Mondays to Thursdays, to 6pm Fridays, 7pm Saturdays, and 11am-5pm Sundays, admission free.

DRAWING WITH WATER, 22 August. Work with artist Ella Phillips to explore how water bubbles, ripples and spins. Using photographic paper and invisible inks, you will record your experiments and build a unique artwork inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci’s studies of water. 10.30am and 3pm starts, ages 5-11, free.

STANLEY HALLS 12 South Norwood Hill SE25 6AB, 020 8251 0184, www.stanleyhalls.org.uk FAMILY DISCO AT THE HALLS, 29 August. BeatsAhead provide the music for an afternoon of disco and dancing, games and prizes, facepainting and refreshments. 4-7pm, tickets £3 for under 13s, £1 accompanying adults, under 2s free.

MUSI C AND T H EAT R E ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND 26 July - 4 August, MAYOW PARK, Sydenham SE26 4SS, www.spontaneousproductions.co.uk/alice Sydenham’s not-for-profit theatre company Spontaneous Productions return with an original, open-air walkabout retelling of Alice’s adventures for families, where the wonderland is leafy Mayow Park. Tickets from Kirkdale Bookshop and online.

CHURCHILL THEATRE High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA, 020 3285 6000, www.churchilltheatre.co.uk TABBY McTAT, 21-23 July. Tabby McTat is a cat with the loudest of meee-ews and a best friend with a guitar. Together they sing their favourite songs delighting the crowds in a heart-warming tale of friendship and loyalty interwoven with original songs and a sprinkling of magic. Tickets from £11.50.

SHREK THE MUSICAL, 8-10 August. Follow an action packed journey filled with fairtytale folk, talking animals, a dragon and of course an ogre or two! This is a non-professional production from the team that performed last year’s spectacular Bugsy Malone.

Tickets from £14.50 children, adults £19.

IN THE NIGHT GARDEN LIVE, 20-24 August. Join Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends at In the Night Garden Live for a brand new show on their first ever UK theatre tour in 2019.

Tickets from £16.50.

STANLEY HALLS 12 South Norwood Hill SE25 6AB, 020 8251 0184, www.stanleyhalls.org.uk THE ENORMOUS TURNIP, 21 July. It’s getting bigger and bigger and BIGGER - come and see how enormous this turnip will grow!

Three Feathers presents a charming adaptation with original music, lights, and puppetry. Inspired by workshops with children aged 0-24 months, this classic tale is certain to entertain the youngest of theatre goers. Tickets from £5.

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZ, 020 7845 0580, www.unicorntheatre.com AESOP’S FABLES, until 3 August. As far as we know, Aesop was a slave and storyteller who lived in ancient Greece between 620 and 564 BC. But although we don’t know much about the man himself, over 725 of his stories are passed down from generation to generation. The Unicorn Theatre is retelling stories for today’s audiences with two productions; suitable for ages 4-7 and 8-12.

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LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE, 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross Street N1 2DN, 020 7226 1787, www.littleangeltheatre.com SUFFRAJITSU, until 13 July. A young girl learns that being small doesn’t mean you can’t change the world. Inspired by the real lives of suffragettes and told through puppetry and original music, this is the story of a movement that divided the nation, ultimately helping to win the fight to give women the vote. Ages 7-11, tickets £12 children, £14 adults.

THE SLIGHTLY ANNOYING ELEPHANT, until 4 August. One day Sam gets a very big surprise as a tired, hungry, antiqueloving, cycling enthusiast elephant turns up on his doorstep.

Adopting an elephant at the zoo turned out to be a lot more than he bargained for as he didn’t realise the elephant would actually come to live with him - silly boy! This hilarious story by comedian and author David Walliams is brought to life through puppetry.

Ages 3-8, tickets £11.50 children, £13.50 adults.

LEICESTER SQUARE THEATRE 6 Leicester Place WC2H 7BX, 020 77134 2222, www.leicestersquaretheatre.com MAD HATTER THE MUSICAL, 15+16 July. Discover the untold story of Franklin Magellan as he makes his way to Wonderland.

The show follows a crippled man from boyhood, through all the tragic and life-changing events that lead him to becoming the famous “Mad Hatter.” The story introduces Marybeth, former dancer and wife, Yola, the exotic Cheshire cat, and even the evil Queen of the Hearts herself. PG rated, 7pm start, tickets £21.25.

THE SCARECROWS’ WEDDING, 20 July - 1 September. Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay are excellent scarecrows. Their wedding plans are all coming together until Harry leaves Betty’s side and the devilishly smooth Reginald Rake tries to take Harry’s place. Will Harry make it back in time to save their special day?

This heart-warming and award-winning adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book is bursting at the seams with Scamp Theatre’s inimitable style. Ages 3+.

GARRICK THEATRE 2 Charing Cross Road WC2H 0HH, 0330 333 4811, www.nimaxtheatres.com/shows/brainiac-live BRANIAC LIVE! 31 July - 2 September. The show that laughs in the face of science is coming to London’s West End for a strictly limited season. Based on the much loved, popular science entertainment TV show, the live show is a breathless, fun and fact-filled exploration of the weird and wonderful world of science, that through a series of high energy experiments delves fearlessly, and perhaps a little foolishly, into the mysteries of science. Expect exploding dustbins, supercharged spinning chairs and the ultimate Airzooka challenge! Ages 6+, tickets from £17.

DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE 18 July to 1 September, TROUBADOUR WEMBLY PARK THEATRE, Fulton Road, Wembley HA9 8TS, 0844 815 4865, www.dinosaurworldlive.com, www.troubadourtheatres.com/wembley-park Using stunning puppetry to bring remarkably life-like dinosaurs to the stage, Dinosaur World Live presents a host of impressive pre-historic creatures including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, along with a Giraffatitan, Microraptor, Segnosaurus and Triceratops. The show introduces Miranda, daughter of palaeontologists, who grew up surrounded by dinosaurs on a far-away island off the coast of South America.

She has brought her pre-historic pals to Wembley Park and would love you to meet them. Warning: some of these dinosaurs aren’t as docile as they seem! Ages 3+, tickets from £14.

A RT AC T IVI T IES SYDENHAM ARTS: ARTISTS’ TRAIL 6-7 and 13-14 July across SYDENHAM, SE26, www.sydenhamarts.co.uk Now in its eleventh year, this year’s event will show the work of over new and established 100 artists who will open their homes, studios, shops and schools to demonstrate their skills, run workshops and provide many opportunities to buy original works.

11am-5pm.

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY, Gallery Road, Dulwich Village SE21 7AD, 020 8693 5254, www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk Open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Fridays, from 11am weekends and bank holidays. Admission free for accompanied children, £8 adults. Listed activities free for families with a gallery ticket or £3 per child.

CUTTING EDGE: MODERN BRITISH PRINTMAKING, 19 June - 8 September. Celebrating 90 years since the inaugural exhibition of British linocuts at the Redfern Gallery in London, Dulwich Picture Gallery brings together 120 prints, drawings and posters to highlight a radical movement that incorporated metropolitan and rural life, men and women, British and international students.

Iconic, vibrant prints champion the energy of contemporary life translating ordinary, everyday scenes into modernist compositions.

Admission free for under 18s, adults from £15.

COLOURFEST FAMILY FESTIVAL, 4 August. Kick of summer with a celebration of colour for all the family. Spend a day at the gallery exploring colour in many different ways. Enjoy rainbow storytelling, printmaking, drawing, building, and be the first to try the new gallery family trail. 10am-5pm, free but book first.

THE COLOUR PALACE, until 22 September. The Colour Palace is inspired by the buzz of fabric markets in Lagos and Nigeria, incorporating symmetry, curves and right-angles. On each side of the Pavilion, brightly coloured timber slats create layers that shift when viewed from different angles, bringing the Gallery’s grounds into technicolour life in a fusion of West African and European influences. The pavilion will act as an outdoor welcome and orientation space for visitors to the Dulwich Picture Gallery, as well as a flexible public space for performances, talks and other events.

ART PLAY, first and last Sunday of each month. Creative drop-in workshops for adults and children, with a different activity each session. Make anything and everything from bunting to block printing and all things in between. 2-3.45pm.

FREE FAMILY TRAIL. Ask a gallery assistant or stop by at the Gallery Friends desk for a free trail; updated frequently and available for the permanent and temporary exhibitions.

THE BARBICAN CENTRE Silk Street EC2Y 8DS, 020 7638 4141, www.barbican.org.uk AI: MORE THAN HUMAN, until 26 August. Engage with the past, present and future of artificial intelligence in a centre-wide ‘festival-style’ exhibition which explores creative and scientific developments in AI. Bringing together artists, scientists and researchers, the exhibition offers interactive exhibits, installations and cutting-edge research projects. Little ones can enjoy the exhibition through its immersive exhibits; while older children, teenagers and adults can learn more about the science of neural networks and algorithms and take part in the ethical and philosophical debates of how this new technology is shaping our future. Prepare for your preconceptions of AI to be challenged.

Admission £15, under 14s free.

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TATE BRITAIN Millbank SW1P 4RG, 020 7887 8888, www.tate.org.uk Tate Britain is the home of British art from 1500 to the present day.

Young people are encouraged to explore art and take ownership of the gallery through regular activities and events for visiting families. Open Mondays to Sundays 10am to 6pm, general admission free THE EY EXHIBITION: VAN GOGH AND BRITAIN, until 11 August. The first exhibition to take a new look at the artist through his relationship with Britain explores how Van Gogh was inspired

by British art, literature and culture throughout his career and how he in turn inspired British artists, from Walter Sickert to Francis Bacon. The exhibition includes over 45 works by the artist from public and private collections around the world including Self-Portrait 1889 from the National Gallery of Art, Washington, L’Arlésienne 1890 from Museu de Arte de Säo Paolo, Starry Night 1888 from the Musée d’Orsay, Paris, Shoes from the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, and the rarely loaned Sunflowers 1888 from the National Gallery, London. Admission £22 adults, under 12s free (up to four per family adult), 12-18 year-olds £5, advance booking recommended.

BLAST OFF STORIES, Wednesdays to Sundays 24 July 2 September. Sit back, relax and read together in the Tate’s storytelling oasis. Discover lots of new books and exciting stories celebrating voices of colour. For families of all ages.

11am-4pm, free.

TATE MODERN BANKSIDE SE1 9TG, 020 7887 8888, www.tate.org.uk OLAFUR ELIASSON: IN REAL LIFE, until 5 January 2020.

Olafur Eliasson returns to Tate Modern for an unmissable exhibition of his career to date, offering a timely opportunity to experience the immersive world of this endlessly inquisitive artist; both inside and outside the gallery. Driven by his interests in perception, movement, and the interaction of people and their environments, Eliasson creates artworks which offer experiences that can be shared by visitors of all ages. Open 10am-6pm daily and to 10pm Fridays and Saturdays.

PICK UP AND PLAY, weekends during school holidays. Take part in family activities, discover playful ideas and create large-scale artworks in learning-assistant workshops. 11am-4pm free drop in.

THE BRITISH MUSEUM BRITISH MUSEUM, Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG, 020 7323 8181, www.britishmuseum.org EDVARD MUNCH: LOVE AND ANGST, until 21 July. The creator of ‘The Scream’ - art’s most haunting and iconic face. A radical father of Expressionism. Norway’s answer to Vincent van Gogh.

But who was Edvard Munch? The British Museum lifts the veil on Munch’s life and works in the largest show of his prints in the UK for 45 years. Munch’s innovative techniques, bold use of colour and dark subject matter mark him out as one of the first truly ‘modern’ artists. Discover how he mastered the art of printmaking and explore his remarkable body of work. Tickets free for under 16s, adults from £14.

THE DESIGN MUSEUM DESIGN MUSEUM, 224-238 Kensington High Street W8 6AG, www.designmuseum.org The museum offers a programme of regular events and activities with plenty of opportunities to get creative, offering free and ticketed workshops and gallery experiences for adult visitors and families with children aged 5-11 years. Open 10am-6pm daily.

CREATE AND MAKE, once a month on Sundays and during school holidays. Be inspired by the museum and its exhibitions through informal drop in sessions focusing on light-touch design and making. Ages 5-11.

GET INTO DESIGN workshops and courses run for families and young people. Led by specialist tutors, they include input and inspiration from some of the rising stars in contemporary design.

Check the website for dates and details. Ages 8-11.

THE WALLACE COLLECTION THE WALLACE COLLECTION, Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN, 020 7563 9500, www.wallacecollection.org The Wallace Collection displays wonderful works of art collected in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries by the first four Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, the son of the 4th Marquess, in their main London townhouse. Family multi-media tours and trails bring the exhibits to life for younger visitors. Open 10am-5pm daily, admission free.

HORRIBLE HELMETS FAMILY DAY, 13 July. Book a special tour of the Wallace Collection with Deaf guide Edward Richards, explore objects from different countries and cultures, try on some real armour and then work with an artist to make some spectacular creations of your own to take home. A free, fun and creative day for children aged 5+ and their families with members who are deaf. 10.30am-3.30pm.

A4 BRASS QUARTET CHILDREN’S CONCERT, 26 July. Sing and play along with this multi-award-winning ensemble as they perform music ranging from film favourites to Rossini and Tchaikovsky. 10.30am start, free.

THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER, 9 August. Hear Madame Chausseur’s tale of the little elves who came every night secretly to make wonderful shoes. With costume, props and set, the children will help Madame re-tell this magical tale, taking on the roles of the shoemaker, his wife, all the characters in the village and the little elves who saved the day. Ages 3+, free.

SOMERSET HOUSE SOMERSET HOUSE, Strand WC2, 020 7845 4600, www.somersethouse.org.uk Art and culture in the heart of London in a stunning riverside setting. Open daily, admission free with a charge for some exhibitions. Free family workshops run on occasional Saturdays check the website for details. Children aged 6-12 years must be accompanied by an adult.

GET UP, STAND UP NOW, until 15 September. A major exhibition celebrating the past 50 years of Black creativity in Britain and beyond. Beginning with the radical Black film maker Horace Ové and his dynamic circle of Windrush generation creative peers and extending to today’s brilliant young Black talent globally, a group of around 100 interdisciplinary artists showcase work together for the first time, exploring Black experience and influence, from the post-war era to the present day. Historic works and new commissions will sit alongside items from personal archives, much of which has never been seen by the public before, Under 12s free, adults £12.50.

THE NATIONAL GALLERY TRAFALGAR SQUARE WC2N 5DN, 020 7747 2885, www.nationalgallery.org.uk Open daily 10am-6pm, Fridays to 9pm, admission free.

With over 2,300 paintings in the collection, there are hundreds of reasons to visit the gallery, along with free hands-on art workshops and magic carpet storytellling for families at weekends and during school holidays. No need to book, but places are limited and allocated on arrival up to one hour before the start.

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SUMMER MILE FAMILY RACEDAY Saturday 13th July 2019 With the racecourse in full bloom this is the ideal chance to enjoy the warmer months alongside Flat racing, picnics and plenty of free family entertainment.

CHRISTMAS FAMILY RACEDAY

FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR FAMILY RACEDAY The Jumps Season gets off to a bang at Ascot with one of Berkshire’s largest fireworks displays after racing and free fairground rides.

ASCOT FOR FAMILIES Children under 18 go FREE Adult tickets from £26pp ascot.co.uk

This festive finale to the year includes a visit from Father Christmas and his reindeer, storytelling with Mrs Christmas, pony rides, huskies, carol singing and much more.

COLTS AND FILLIES CLUB Younger racegoers can join the FREE Colts and Fillies Club to enjoy exclusive events, trips and their own racehorse in training.

Unlock your child’s potential

with our expertly led singing, dancing and acting classes for 4-18 year olds.

GREENWICH 020 7112 8242 stagecoach.co.uk/greenwich DULWICH 020 8949 4116 stagecoach.co.uk/dulwich UPPER NORWOOD 07442 532386 stagecoach.co.uk/uppernorwood SYDENHAM 020 7228 0981 stagecoach.co.uk/sydenham BROMLEY 020 3780 4893 stagecoach.co.uk/bromley Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

16 Families South East

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Families South East Tel: 020 8699 3958 Email: info@familiesse.co.uk Contact: Robina Cowan Website: www.familiesse.co.uk MAGAZINE DESIGN: Lancasters 020 8658 9975 www.lancasters.co.uk Printed on paper from sustainable forests. www.ridgewaypress.co.uk

Saturday 21st December 2019

Saturday 2nd November 2019