Families London-Kent Borders September/October 2012 (Issue 9)

The essential magazine for parents of children aged 0–12

London–Kent Borders

Issue 9: September/October 2012

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Back to School •Reading Special •Independent

School Open Days •Clubs & Classes

Win

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•A Family Portrait with

Smile Please Studio •A Kindle with Metanium Everyday •A One-Day Home Fitness Bootcamp with Return to Glory

Plus: News, ‘What’s on’ & much more inside! ★ For families living in the Bromley & Bexley boroughs, Dartford & the surrounding areas of Kent www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

artwork 87mm x 130mm wide:Layout 1 18/07/2012 14:00 Page 1

Breaside PreParatory school

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL

WITH

US

A Co-Ed School for Children Aged 2½ - 11 Years

THRIVE

Ofsted say that we are “Outstanding”!

SHE WILL

Ofsted report 2011

Open Mornings Saturday, 6 October 2012, 10.00 am - 12.30 pm Tuesday 27 November 2012, 9.30 am - 12.00 pm

A reputation for its friendly, unique • environment with individual attention and specialist teaching in small classes.

“Bromley High helps you succeed in anything you want to do in life” Eve, Year 7

Outstanding results to Grammar Schools, St Olave’s and Newstead • Wood and Senior Independent Schools including Bromley High and Eltham College.

A GDST School

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 29TH 2012

Entry at 2½ years of age in the • Kindergarten or through assessment at 4 –11 years of age.

9.30 AM ‐ 1.00 PM

SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING MONDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2012, FROM 6.45 PM

4+, 7+, 11+ AND 16+

Fees Assistance & Scholarships available

J?????_Babington_Family_Ad_180x130mm:Layout 1 29/8/12 admissions@bro.gdst.net Tel: 020 8781 7000 www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net/fken1

14:46

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41 Orchard Road, Bromley, Kent, BR1 2PR Tel 020 8460 0916 Fax 020 8466 5664.

Email: info@breaside.co.uk www.breaside.co.uk

Babington House School Independent School for Boys aged 3 – 7 & Girls 3 –16

Open Day Saturday 6th October 2012

9.30am - 12.30pm

Headteacher available for individual time with parents.

Join us for a working school morning.

Pupils will provide guided tours.

Headteacher Mrs D Leek-Bailey Grange Drive, Off Elmstead Lane, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5ES Telephone 020 8467 5537 Email enquiries@babingtonhouse.com Website www.babingtonhouse.com

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www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

Give your child a head start at school!

The online reading program for children!

FREE

5 WEEK TRIAL!

Register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk and use this code: UKB24LKB

In this issue

4 News 5 Mothers Mean Business 6 How to encourage a love of reading 7 School News 7 Open Days 8–10 Clubs & Classes 12 What’s On 13 Top tips for skiing holidays 13 Competitions 14 Events 15 Out & About

Hurry, this great trial offer ends on 31st October 2012

S . S a m u e l Photo g r a ph y

Welcome

to a new school year full of lots of new and exciting challenges! In this issue we have our popular Clubs and Classes listings and we look at simple ways to encourage your child to love reading. Plus, if you’re stuck for something to do, take a look at our ‘What’s On’ section which is packed with things to do at the weekend and during Half Term. And we have some fantastic prizes to win including a family portrait with Smile Please Studio, a Kindle with Metanium Everyday and a one day Home Fitness Boot Camp experience with Return to Glory.

To enter visit: www.familieslondonkent.co.uk/competitions Good luck and happy reading!

Have natural professional photos taken of your family

For further information, prices or to make your booking please contact Sham Samuel:

m: 07528 190773 e: sham@samuelphotography.com

www.samuelphotography.com

Le tri

Home & Office Organiser

Juliette Dixon, Editor 020 8466 6977, editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk Follow us on Facebook at Families London–Kent Borders Magazine and on Twitter @familieslkb © Families London–Kent Borders. 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 consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families London–Kent Borders nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families London–Kent Borders is part of the Families® group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. Printed by Williams Press Ltd, www.williamspress.co.uk

Music classes for babies and young children! ® time of music Nur turing a life

For your FREE trial class call: Bexley, Dartford & Eynsford Tel - 01322 862021 Beckenham, West Wickham, Bromley & Chislehurst Tel - 020 8777 6700

monkeymusic.com

020 8466 6977

Action songs and rhymes Music and movement Fun with percussion Musical games

• Get decluttering and you’ll be amazed at the difference!

• Le Tri will declutter and organise any room in your home or office and also provides a cleaning service.

07551 329 645 (Julianah) • info@letri.co.uk

www.letri.co.uk

Business MuMs Wanted Successful local business is seeking five partners to work part-time from home without compromising family commitments.

If you have a Managerial, Sales, Marketing, Recruitment or Self-Employed background and you want to develop a more balanced lifestyle around your family’s needs, call Katie

01737 766403 / 07909 681884

Since 1993 thousands of children across the UK have grown up with Monkey Music. Our unique teaching curriculum was written by classically trained musicians, and introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy.

Rock ‘n’ roll - from 3 months Heigh ho – from 12 months Jiggety jig – 2 & 3 year olds Ding dong – 3 & 4 year olds Winner of the Best National Pre-School Activity Award.

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Babble from the borders

News & Views

CBEEBIES presenter, Sid Sloane will be wearing his pyjamas for Humphrey’s Pyjama Week (8–12 October) to help raise money for The Children’s Trust. ‘This is a fun opportunity to raise money for a very important charity that helps children with multiple disabilities and complex health needs, who need specialist care,’ explains Sid. Sid is hoping that nurseries, playgroups and primary schools will get involved. ‘For a voluntary donation of £2 youngsters and staff can wear their favourite sleepwear for a day during the week and organise themed events.’

Participating nurseries and schools will receive an event pack which includes Humphrey stickers, posters, party hats, a certificate for each child and a story booklet.

To find out more visit www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/ humphrey or email: humphrey @thechildrenstrust.org.uk

Calling all little piglets

Playful Piglets is a new, fun-filled ‘music and developmental play’ class for babies and toddlers in West Wickham.

Each week the age-appropriate sessions (Baby Piglets: birth to walking and Toddler Piglets: walking to 4 years) feature a different theme and a huge ‘piglet play area’ full of quality toys, equipment and an amazing black-out glow show POD. The activity sessions have been carefully planned in accordance with the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) to ensure your little one is learning and encountering developmental opportunities while having loads of fun!

For more information visit www.playfulpiglets.co.uk or contact Katie to book a free trial class on 07748 440835/ info@playfulpiglets.co.uk

Bromley High’s fashion stars

Year 12 girls from Bromley High School were joined by boys from local schools (and some brave members of staff) to model clothes from various High Street stores for their Annual Fashion Show to raise money for charity. This year’s show, entitled ‘Pulse’ raised a magnificent £500 for Demelza House.

Declutter with Le Tri

If your house is suffering the after effects of the Summer Holidays then a visit from Le Tri could be the answer. Set up by Julianah Ked, Le Tri promises to professionally declutter and reorganise any room of your house or office and also offers a cleaning service and advice on time management, all in the strictest confidence.

For more information visit www.letri.co.uk or call Julianah on 07551 329645 or email her at info@letri.co.uk

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www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

Mothers Mean Business

Ismini Phillips, Pilates Teacher & Breast Cancer Exercise Specialist Tell us a bit about yourself I am a Pilates Teacher, Breast Cancer Exercise Specialist, Back4Good Practitioner and Back Care Professional offering a variety of classes from beginner to advanced, including specialist exercise classes such as the Pink Ribbon Program, Back4Good and Healthy Back classes. I have also taught Salsa and Zumba, but my Pilates work has become so popular that I am teaching this form more and more.

Every girl deserves a pretty dress If you have a daughter, chances are she has plenty of pretty dresses to choose from, so spare a thought for the children growing up in poverty in countries like Malawi, Kenya, India, Uganda and Ghana who do not own a single one.

If you have some basic sewing skills, there is a way you can make a difference with a charity called Dress A Girl Around the World which collects handmade dresses and arranges for them to be sent to projects in the relevant countries. The dresses are being made out of new fabric or recycled pillowcases by sewing groups, schools, colleges and individuals across the UK. You don’t have to make a dress though, if you are handy with a sewing machine you can also make boys shorts, bags, hair bands and bracelets.

For more information, sewing tips or to see the dresses visit: sewscrumptious.blogspot.com

Ideas for wheat-free lunch boxes

Good quality proteins, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats are the key to a super wheat-free lunch box.

• Quality proteins – Deli meats, cheese and cheese spreads, salads (chicken, turkey, tuna), soup, yogurt, protein bars, hard-boiled eggs, falafel • Complex carbohydrates – Vegetables and fruits (celery, carrot sticks, sugar snap peas, broccoli, cauliflower), rice, whole grain gluten free bread and crackers, hummus, gluten free pasta with pesto, rice cakes with fun toppings (jam, cheese) • Healthy Fats - Olive oil, raw seeds, dried fruit, avocados, olives

020 8466 6977 www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

What made you choose this career path? I have been involved in dance and fitness from a young age and have a varied teaching background. I took up Pilates during my third pregnancy at the age of 41 to avoid back pain, including sciatica, which had plagued me in earlier pregnancies.

I found Pilates helped and was able to continue with Pilates and salsa throughout my pregnancy. I have been teaching Pilates since 2007 and have a broad range of knowledge gained from various bodies including Body Control Pilates, the Australian Physiotherapy & Pilates Institute, Future Fit Training, Alan Herdman, Michael King and others.

How did you become involved in the Pink Ribbon Program?

The Pink Ribbon Program is a Pilates based post operative workout specifically created for breast cancer patients and I trained as a Pink Ribbon Program Breast Cancer Exercise Specialist in 2011.

I am now training as an Instructor Trainer for the Program and I’m proud to be one of the first 30 instructors to be trained in Europe and one of the first Instructor Trainers to be trained in the UK. I am excited about the Pink Ribbon Program as it is unique and specifically works on the rehabilitation of breast cancer patients by increasing range of motion, mobility, strength and much more on their affected side. With 1 in 8 women and 1% of men suffering with breast cancer it is extremely rewarding, especially when I see patients with whom I work, feeling much more confident about themselves, their recovery and their improvements. I run

classes and workshops and the joy they feel as they improve is wonderful to see.

What about your other work?

As a Back4Good Practitioner and BackCare Professional I offer specialist classes for the management and maintenance of low back pain. The Back4Good Program is a referral programme for the medical professional to send their clients to, or can be for self-referral when someone has acute or chronic back pain and it is about the management of back pain. The Healthy Back classes are more about keeping back pain at bay. Both Programmes are useful to me as a teacher as I can modify exercises accordingly for clients who have had back pain and attend my mainstream classes. I offer a confidential and holistic approach and by teaching Pilates and Salsa/ Zumba, I am helping my clients with postural problems, abdominal and core strength, back problems, rehabilitation after injury or surgery, cardiovascular fitness, post cancer care and ante and post natal fitness, and I receive many referrals from local osteopaths/physiotherapists and local hospitals.

What do you like about working for yourself? It gives me the flexibility I need to spend time with my six year old daughter and it means that I can see her develop and grow, as well as watch my clients develop and achieve their goals. I have been working for myself on a full time basis for over a year now and it has meant hard work, long hours, commitment and perseverance. My business is growing daily and so my next project is to open my own studio and run a variety of classes ranging from Pilates, to the Pink Ribbon Program, Back4Good and Healthy Back classes, Zumba and much more.

Ismini Phillips is a member of REPS, registered at Level 4 Specialist Instructor, the Body Control Pilates Association, Back Care Charity, Fitpro and Zumba Instructor Network, with classes in Bromley, Chislehurst, Eynsford & Dartford.

Next Pink Ribbon Program workshop: 14 October, Thistle Hotel, Brands Hatch; weekly classes start there on 15 September. www.isminiphillips.com or email Ismini@ isminiphillips.com or call 07711 906750

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Education issues

Read to succeed

Reading opens up a new world to your child and gives them a chance to use their imagination. Elisabeth Dolton introduces five simple steps to encourage your child’s love of reading

1

Set up reading time every day

• Decide when and where a reading session will take place which fits into your household schedule, and keep it – 10 minutes is fine.

• Encourage your child to read aloud. They don’t have to get every word right, and praise them often. If they are discouraged by their own reading, you read aloud.

The pleasure of listening to you read can restore their enthusiasm. Offer to read every other sentence, page or chapter, and have conversations and discussions about the content.

• Make it fun – children love sound effects, different voices and pulling faces.

2

During reading time • Introduce the bookmark. Stop after a few pages and pick up where you left off at another time.

• Provide an accessible, special place for your child to keep its own books.

• Use special incentives such as an extra five minutes to finish a chapter, a promise to take them to see the film of the book, sticker charts and certificates.

• Notice what attracts your child’s attention, even if it’s only pictures, and build on that interest. Gather more information on the same subject.

• Listen to audio books (in the car too).

These help develop visualisation, a critical pre-reading skill.

• Let them choose their own books. Don’t worry the books are too young or too easy, early reading success can came from several ‘non-traditional’ sources such as comics.

• Buy a special notebook and record all the

✯

• Visit the library and give your child its own library card. They can choose their own library book or listen in on Story Time.

5

Be a role model • Let your child see you reading for pleasure. Read aloud everyday items such as menus, road signs and food labels.

• Give books as gifts.

• Leave books, magazines and colourful catalogues around your home.

• Write short notes for your child to read.

books they have read, add their thoughts and a star rating.

3

See the teacher and judge where they are • Find out what reading programme the school follows, get to know the levels, and aim to supplement the programme at home.

• Prepare a timetable. Know what level your child is at and the next, with some idea of when it can be achieved. But remember, there is no race to be the first to read, it just puts things into context.

4

Plan specific reading linked activities • Extend your child’s positive reading experiences (eg If they enjoyed reading about dinosaurs, visit the Natural History Museum).

• Encourage activities that require reading (eg something with instructions and directions), play games that require reading and use a reference book to look up something you have seen.

Helping children with learning difficulties • Books and Audio: Follow a book as the audio book plays. Listen to a chapter and then read it together.

• Turn on the TV subtitles: Sub-titles on your TV or DVD help increase sight word vocabulary, while developing a sense of flow of written and spoken language.

• Make your child the star of its own audio book: Your child can read into a recorder and then follow the book together during playback.

• Reserve 30 minutes each evening for family reading time. Each family member reads different material and then shares information about it, or takes turns reading aloud from the same book.

• Support their learning: Help ensure your child doesn’t get behind in reading material necessary for school subjects, ask for help with obtaining textbooks on CD ROM. Together identify unfamiliar words and show your child how to look up the meanings of words.

Children with specific learning difficulties and dyslexia could benefit from the PQ4R strategy (http://learningdisabilities.about.com/od/ instructionalmaterials/a/pq4rstrategy.htm).

Five week free trial with Reading Eggs & Reading Eggspress

Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress are a fun, online programme from educational publisher Blake Publishing designed to support school learning and home educators. Reading Eggs is a phonics-based system for 3 to 7 year olds and includes 120 reading lessons which take children who have little or no reading experience right the way through to them reading books confidently. In addition to the reading lessons there are also a series of spelling lessons, an introduction to comprehension and grammar, a story factory, plus educational games and activities to keep children motivated.

The next level, designed for 7 to 13 year olds, is Reading Eggspress.This focuses on comprehension and grammar, writing and reading fluency and includes a Library which holds over 1000 e-books.

To try the programmes free for up to five weeks, simply register at www.readingeggs.co.uk and enter the promotional code: UKB24LKB.

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www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

School News

Babington House: New Head Teacher Appointed From 1 January 2013 Tim Lello (right) will take up the post as Head Teacher of Babington House School in Chislehurst, as the current Head, Deborah Leek-Bailey, leaves to pursue other interests in education. Tim joins Babington from Queen’s College London, where he is the Deputy Principal.

He was educated at the universities of Newcastle, London and Jesus College, Cambridge where he developed a passion for music and sport; he still enjoys playing competitive hockey and sings in a professional opera company when work commitments allow it.

Breaside: ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted and exam results Breaside Preparatory School in Bromley is once again celebrating an excellent set of school entrance examination results. This follows an ‘Outstanding’ report from Ofsted Inspectors who praised the teaching staff and ‘the outstanding quality of education the school provides’.

This year pupils received scholarships to Eltham College, Trinity, Colfe’s and Bromley High, together with 23 places offered to local Grammar Schools.

Alun and Joy Jones Environmental Studies Awards This year’s awards saw outstanding entries from over 1,100 students celebrating the theme ‘The Pride of Great Britain’. Top schools included Babington House School, which received the Alan Jones Award for the school with the most entries, followed by Red Hill School and Farringtons School.

Other winning schools included Beaverwood School, Bromley High School, Bullers Wood School, Coopers Technology College, Edgebury Primary School, Marjorie McClure School, Mead Road, St Peter and St Paul’s and St Nicholas C of E Primary.

www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

Independent School Open Days • Babington House School, Chislehurst (020 8467 5537), 6 October, 9.30am–12.30pm • Bickley Park School, Bickley (020 8467 2195), 12 October, 9.15am–12pm • Bishop Challoner School, Shortlands (020 8460 3546), 6 October, 9am–12pm • Breaside Preparatory School, Bromley (020 8460 0916), 6 October, 10am–12.30pm & 27 November, 9.30am–12pm • Bromley High School, Bromley (020 8781 7000), 29 September, 9.30am– 1pm & 8 October, from 6.45pm (Sixth Form) • Colfe’s School, Lee (Pre-Prep: 020 8463 8266, Prep: 020 8463 8240, Senior: 020 8852 2283), 29 September, 9am–12pm, 11 October, 5.30pm–8.30pm (Sixth Form), 6 November, 9.30am–11am (Nursery, PrePrep & Prep) & 10 November, 9am–12pm (Senior) • Eltham College, Mottingham (020 8857 1455 ), 15 September, 10am–12.30pm & 10 October, 7pm–9pm (Sixth Form) • Farringtons School, Chislehurst (020 8467 0256), 22 September, 9am–12pm & 7 November, 9am–11am • Merton Court Preparatory School, Sidcup (020 8300 2112), 22 September, 9am–12pm & 13 November, 9am–3pm * Please note some Open Days require you to register before attending.

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Clubs & Classes

After school activi After School Clubs Chucklebox

0208 777 0218 www.chucklebox.net 4–11yrs Venues throughout Bromley Breakfast clubs, after school and holiday clubs.

Arts & Crafts Art for Kids www.artforkids.org.uk Chislehurst Sew Fun 020 84673920 annecoopermail@gmail.com 8 to adult Bromley Fun sewing classes for children and adults. Next adult classes on 12 & 19 October at Ripley where students can learn how to make a cushion cover or a tote bag.

Cookery Cookies Kitchen info@cookieskitchen.co.uk Kent

Kitchen Stars 07904 238748 info@kitchenstars.co.uk 2 to adult Beckenham & West Wickham

Languages La Jolie Ronde French & Spanish Classes Beckenham (0208 4023226), Bromley (07799 673 981), Petts Wood (020 8325 3841) & Welling (07787 484 142).

El Quijote Spanish Club 020 8325 1043 Bromley

Music & Performing Arts Act Arts 020 8304 7800 Bexleyheath & Bromley All THE ARTS THEATRE SCHOOL 020 8850 2384 Bexley, Chislehurst & Sidcup Bexley School of Dance 07527 846251 Bexley, Bexleyheath & Sidcup

BIRD COLLEGE www.birdcollege.co.uk Sidcup

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BROMLEY YOUTH MUSIC TRUST www.bymt.co.uk

Oliver! & Peter Pan. New term now booking. Free trial class.

Bromley

STAGECOACH

Dance Fusion

Dartford & Orpington: 01732 750783 dartford@stagecoach.co.uk/ orpington@stagecoach.co.uk Sidcup: 01732 354007 sidcup@stagecoach.co.uk 4–18yrs Stagecoach Theatre Arts offers high quality performing arts training in ‘Early Stages’ classes (4– 6yrs) & ‘Further Stages’ (16-18yrs, Dartford only). Children in small classes (maximum 15) learn to sing, dance and act led by qualified, experienced teachers. They gain in self confidence & team skills while having fun in a safe, challenging environment.

Street Starz 07989 433073 vickysinfield2@yahoo.co.uk Bexleyheath

07973 559158 dancefusion@fsmail.net 2 to adult Orpington Fun, structured & supportive classes and holiday workshops developing dance skills, creativity & friendships. Free trial class plus PAYG & discounts.

The Funky Chicks Academy info@funkychicksacademy.com Venues include Beckenham, Chislehurst & Sidcup HELEN O’GRADY DRAMA ACADEMY www.helenogrady.co.uk Beckenham, Bexleyheath, Biggin Hill, Chislehurst, Crayford, Dartford, Hayes, Orpington, Petts Wood, Sevenoaks, Shortlands, Sidcup, Welling & West Wickham ITALIA CONTI admin@italiaconti-chislehurst. com Chislehurst JIGSAW PERFORMING ARTS enquiries@jigsaw-arts.co.uk Bexleyheath, Bromley, Chislehurst & Sevenoaks

THE LUCY GRIFFITHS DANCE AND THEATRE ACADEMY 01689 827 669 lucy@lucygriffiths.co.uk Rising 2 to adult Chislehurst, Green-Street-Green & Orpington Ballet, tap, modern, street dance, theatre performance, drama, singing & pre-school classes.

PERFORM enquiries@perform.org.uk C Beckenham, Bromley, Petts Wood M & Sevenoaks

SPOTLIGHTS THEATRE SCHOOL 020 8460 5711

STUDIO 74 DANCE & THEATRE SCHOOL 0208 2954255 info@studio74dance.co.uk Babies to adults Bromley Classes include Taekwondo, Stage School, Baby Ballet, ISTD Tap & Modern, RAD Ballet, Drama, Theatre Company, Advanced Musical Production, Hip Hop, Commercial Street & Jazz, Breakdance, Zumba, Pilates, Yoga, Pregnancy Yoga, Baby Singing & Music Classes, Teenage Bootcamp, Cheerleading & more!

Term time classes and holiday workshops.

Pre-School Classes BABY SENSORY

Beckenham, Bromley, Orpington & West Wickham: 07809 427789, bromley@babysensory.co.uk Bexley, Bexleyheath, Hither Green, Lee Green & Sidcup: 07966 532 987, sidcup@ babysensory.co.uk Birth to 13 months

BABYBALLET 020 8311 2824 (Miss Jessie), dartfordandbexley@babyballet.co.uk & bromley@babyballet.co.uk 6 months–5yrs Bexley, Bexleyheath, Bromley, Chislehurst, Dartford, Greenhithe & Sidcup Babyballet classes are a friendly introduction to the basic ballet moves taught in a caring environment.

BALLET BELLES 07703 531060 Bromley

BOPPIN TOTS vicky@boppintots.co.uk Bromley borough Fun drop-in sessions with a weekly theme.

GYMBOREE BROMLEY 020 8313 3921 bromley@gymboree-uk.com Under 5s Baby Play, Play and Learn, Music, Arts, Theatre Arts, Fitness Fun and School Skills.

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CM

info@spotlightstheatre.co.uk MY 2–16yrs CY Beckenham, Bromley, Orpington & West Wickham & Croydon CMY Fantastic drama, dance and singK ing classes that build self confidence. Successful agency with students currently cast in Shrek,

www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

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ties for everyone

k booto u o t y ge ies r en il Wh n’t fo Fam nt do tion –Ke n n . me ondorders L Bo

JO JINGLES Beckenham & Bromley: 020 8290 0909, jojinglesbromley@ntlworld.com Dartford, Bexley, Bexleyheath, Meopham, Gravesend: 07525865030 jojinglesgravesham@hotmail. com 3 months–4yrs Fun, educational, structured, interactive music & movement sessions with singing, instrument playing and dancing. 45-minute class with a maximum of 15.

JOLLY DINOSAURS MUSIC CLUB 01689 852194 (Paul) Orpington, New Eltham & Sidcup MICROSPORT 01689 600992 angela@micro-sport.co.uk 2–7yrs Beckenham, Bromley & Tatsfield During the term, children will learn about cricket, tennis, hockey, basketball and football as well as learning about warming up and cooling down and running races. Classes are taken by trained coaches with an emphasis on fun. There is now an after school club for 4–7s in full time education.

Minimaths info@minimaths.co.uk 2–4yrs Bromley Minimaths provides interactive classes that gently boost the mathematical skills of pre-school children through fun, creative and stimulating activities.

nicola@talkingtots.info 1–4yrs Bromley, Beckenham, West Wickham, Orpington & Sidcup The classes are fun, with a variety of activities for your little one, including songs, games, rhymes and much more. Each session is designed to help boost children’s social confidence, communication, listening, turn-taking and sharing skills, vocabulary and pre-literacy ability.

Toddler Sense Monkey Music Beckenham, Bromley, Chislehurst & West Wickham: 020 8777 6700, helen.whitaker@monkeymusic.co.uk Bexley, Dartford & Eynsford: 01322 862021, bexley.dartford@ monkeymusic.co.uk 3 months–4yrs Award-winning music classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

Introducing music to children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy. Well-established, very popular and great fun!

Pipsqueaks Music Ltd 01689 823880 (Jo) www.pipsqueaksmusic.co.uk 6 months–5yrs Otford & Petts Wood Fun music and dance classes for children. Free trial available.

Playful Piglets 07748 440835 info@playfulpiglets.co.uk

Birth to 4yrs West Wickham Music and developmental play classes for babies and toddlers with sensory and EYFS linked activities, amazing glow show POD, songs and instruments, messy play, colour recognition games.

Free trial available.

Sing and Sign 01689 837 905, singandsignbromley@gmail.com 6 months–2yrs Bromley, Beckenham, Chislehurst & Petts Wood Sing & Sign’s award winning programme uses songs, props and pictures in musical activities designed to stimulate speech and language development. The signs are based on British Sign Language and are used alongside speech to emphasise the key word and do not replace it.

Talking Tots 07504 166107

Beckenham, Bromley, Orpington & West Wickham: 07809 427789, bromley@ toddlersense.co.uk Bexley & Crayford: 07940 911073, katybexley@toddlersense.co.uk Beckenham & West Wickham: beckenham@toddlersense. co.uk 1–3yrs A fun adventure which changes each week for both toddlers and their parents, with great equipment including bouncy castles, airflow tunnels, sportsfield, ramps, slides, ball pits and soft play.

Wiggly Kids Music & Movement 07546 221000, music@wigglykids.co.uk 1–4yrs Bexleyheath & Crayford

Sport Football

LITTLE KICKERS Beckenham & Bromley: ksullivan@littlekickers.co.uk

Clothes Labelling made easy.

Reusable Dry clean

Secure Comfortable Boil wash Iron proof Quick apply Small

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We etch the name

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Order online at:

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info@attachatag.com or call:

01757 638926

No sewing - No ironing - No markers 020 8466 6977

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Petts Wood, Orpington & Sevenoaks: pbanister@littlekickers.co.uk Bean, Bexley, Bexleyheath, Northfleet & Sidcup: nrobinson@littlekickers.co.uk 18 months–7 yrs GYMNASTICS

Help your baby to communicate BEFORE speech with our award winning MUSIC program.

Our unique music courses combine action songs and nursery rhymes with gestures derived from sign language.

Contact Karen 01689 837 905 e: singandsignbromley@gmail.com Classes in Bromley, Beckenham & Orpington www.singandsign.com

BROMLEY VALLEY GYMNASTICS CENTRE office@bromleyvalley.co.uk HORSE RIDING

CHELSFIELD EQUESTRIAN CENTRE 01689 855 603 MOUNT MASCAL STABLES 020 8300 3947 Bexley NORTH CRAY & SIDCUP RIDING SCHOOL 020 8300 1378 MARTIAL ARTS

Music and Developmental Play Classes for babies and toddlers (birth to 4 years)

www.playfulpiglets.co.uk 07748 440835 info@playfulpiglets.co.uk

Book a free trial now!

MICROSPORT -real sport for under 5 s CELEBRATING 20 YEARS! A fun & educational introduction to ball sports: soccer, tennis, hockey, cricket and much more. We have a long proven record of success & our small sports come back again & again.

Trained adult coaches & lots of classes.

AGES 2,3 & 4

For classes in Bromley, Beckenham & Tatsfield: angela@micro-sport.co.uk 01689 600992 For classes in Sevenoaks, Pembury, Orpington, Dunton Green, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells: jnoble@micro-sport.co.uk 07863 330200

Kaigaishii Karate Association sensei_james_ricketts@ yahoo.co.uk Sidcup KNIGHTS KARATE CLUB 020 8658 2629 www.knightskarate.co.uk

www.pitchero.com/clubs/ oldelthamians Orpington RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ orpington

RUGBY TOTS 0845 3133242 2–7yrs Bexley, Orpington & Sevenoaks Small classes develop social and physical attributes while gently encouraging rugby specific skills.

SIDCUP RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ sidcuprfc SKIING

BROMLEY SKI CENTRE 01689 876 812 SWIMMING

Angelas Swim School www.angelasswimschool. co.uk 4 months to adult Dartford, Gravesend, Otford & Sevenoaks The school is dedicated to inspiring each individual to achieve their very best with classes all year round.

AQUAKIDS RUGBY

BECKENHAM RUGBY CLUB www.pitchero.com/clubs/ beckenham BEXLEY RUGBY CLUB www.pitchero.com/clubs/ bexleyrfc BROMLEY RFC www.bromleyrugbyclub. co.uk DARTFORDIANS RFC www.pitchero.com/clubs/ dartfordians OLD ELTHAMIANS RFC

aquakids@me.com 3+yrs Bromley High School Small classes with teacher in the water focus on building confidence through fun and excellent teaching. Deep water experience, rookie award, survival & diving awards for more advanced swimmers. Term time and intensive crash courses during the school holidays.

CRYSTAL PALACE DIVING 020 8771 4729

TENNIS

BEXLEY LAWN TENNIS, SQUASH & RACKETBALL CLUB 01322 524544 www.bexleyclub.co.uk CHISLEHURST LAWN TENNIS CLUB 07754 089280 www.chislehursttennis. org.uk RAW TENNIS 07563 603822 bookings@rawtennis.co.uk Hayes

Tuition

Fleet Tutors 0845 644 5452 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk One-to-one tuition in prep school entry, 11+, common entrance exams, SATS and for dyslexia/remedial help at the pupil’s home.

Kumon www.kumon.co.uk Beckenham (0208 123 9364), Bexleyheath (0208 303 2821), Biggin Hill (01689 880497), Blackfen (0208 3063478), Bromley (020 3602 9746), Chelsfield (01689 602 196), Dartford (01732 760 231), Elmstead (01689 812731), Orpington (020 8325 2250), Otford (0208 333 9550), Park Langley (020 8402 2443) Petts Wood (01322 521 907), Sevenoaks (01342 851221) & Sidcup (020 8466 7970) Kip McGrath www.kipmcgrath.co.uk Bexleyheath (01322 522702), Bromley (020 8466 6713), Dartford (01322 285685), Gravesend (01474 326322), Sevenoaks (01732 453657), Sidcup (020 8298 9001) & Welling (020 8304 8342)

www.micro-sport.co.uk

Adult Sewing Classes at the Ripley Arts Centre, Bromley

Fridays in October, from 9.45am until 1.00pm

Learn to

dance, act & sing

Stars 1, 2 & 3 (7 – 16 years) A specialist choreographer, drama coach and singing coach take classes in their own particular discipline. Each term covers a variety of material ending with a showcase to family and friends.

Make a lovely tote bag £49.00 all material and refreshments provided, max 6 students, 12th Oct

Little Stars (4 – 6 years)

Sew a simple cushion cover £49.00 all materials and refreshments provided, max 6 students, 19th Oct

Mini Stars (2 – 3.5 years)

ANNE COOPER: 07932 626691 www.sewfunclasses.co.uk annecoopermail@gmail.com

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Little Stars classes are a fantastic introduction to the fun of performing arts. Each term we use fresh material based on a different theme, finishing with a performance to family and friends.

Mini Stars is a fun, parent-present, interactive and creative workshop featuring drama games, singing and funky dance routines.

Free trial sessions are available at all classes

Call 020 8460 5711 or visit www.spotlightstheatre.co.uk to book Locations: Beckenham | Bromley | Croydon | Orpington Petts Wood | Purley | Sanderstead | Selsdon | West Wickham

www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

AQUAKIDS www.aquakids.co.uk

SMALL CLASSES HELD AT BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL 3 YEARS AND UPWARDS TEACHER IN THE WATER

TERM TIME CLASSES TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY

NEXT CRASH COURSE 29 OCTOBER–2 NOVEMBER 9.30AM-11AM CHECK WEBSITE FOR DETAILS BOOKING FORMS ON THE WEBSITE

aquakids@me.com

STUDIO 74 DANCE & THEATRE SCHOOL

Classes for Babies to Adults

Classes: All styles of dance, RAD Ballet, Baby Ballet, Drama, Stage School, Taekwondo, Children’s Parties, Recording Studio, Gymnastics, Tots Tennis, Zumba, Baby Yoga & so much more

★ WWW.STUDIO74DANCE.CO.UK ★

Studio 74 LTD

• 020 8295 4255 • INFO@STUDIO74DANCE.CO.UK

STUDIO 74, THE HALL, ST AUGUSTINE’S AVENUE, BROMLEY, KENT BR2 8AG

Bromley, Chisehurst, Dartford, Eltham, Eynsford

Working together to make the best choice for you and your family.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts

Parental Choice is the essential “one-stop shop” for your childcare needs and advice on your legal rights before, during and after pregnancy.

The original and largest network of part-time performing arts schools in the world.

Dance, drama and singing classes for 4 - 18 yrs

4 Childcare options clearly presented 4 Employment legal rights explained 4 Nanny employment and payroll services.

thethe Autumn Term!

Now enrolling enrollingforfor Spring Term!

Dartford 01732 750 783 Orpington 01732 750 783 Sidcup 01732 354 007 www.stagecoach.co.uk

Theatre Arts Schools

Stagecoach

Our services include:

4 4 4 4 4 4

Advice on maternity and paternity employment rights Complete childcare package sourced for you Guidance on all your childcare options and the costs Nursery search to find the best nursery closest to you Advice on employing nannies Bespoke employment contracts and payroll services.

Parental Choice: dedicated to helping you make the right choices for you and your family.

www.parentalchoice.co.uk Please use code: FMPC1 for a 5% discount

020 8466 6977

11

What’s On

✶

Out &about THEATRE

CHURCHILL THEATRE High Street, Bromley, www.atgtickets.com/bromley 28–30 Sept Cirque du Ciel’s Shangh With superb costumes, sets and lighting, this stunning extravaganza combines acrobatics, modern dance, original music and martial arts.

11 & 12 Oct Spirit of the Dance

FAIRFIELD HALLS Park Lane, Croydon, www.fairfield.co.uk 23 Sept, 4pm The Wonderful Wizard of Oz 21 Oct, 5pm Treasure Island Join Jassa from Disney’s Art Attack! in this fun adventure.

30 Oct, 3pm & 6.30pm High School Rocks!

29 Oct–2 Nov Horrible Science

THE ORCHARD Dartford DA1 1ED, 01322 220000, www.orchardtheatre.co.uk 26–28 Oct Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 31 Oct–3 Nov Seussical This musical brings together some favourite Dr Seuss characters including Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Mazie La Bird, the Whos of Whoville and, of course, The Cat In The Hat.

The StaG Sevenoaks TN13 1ZZ, 01732 450175, enquiries@stagsevenoaks.co.uk, www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk 14 Oct, 4pm Family Concert Travel around the world in this exciting family concert inspired by the arrival of the first train in Sevenoaks 150 years ago.

DAYS OUT

BEDGEBURY NATIONAL PINETUM & FOREST Goudhurst, nr Cranbrook, Kent TN17 2SJ, 01580 879 820, www.forestry.gov.uk/bedgebury ONGOING EVENTS Seasonal trails, family cycle trails (bikes for hire: 01580 879 694) & Go Ape (www.goape.co.uk) 30 Sept Forest Discovery Day 30 Oct The Big Draw Collect and Draw (10am– 11.15am) and Bedgebury’s Autumn Colours (1pm–2.15pm. Prebooking advisable; £2 child.

1 Nov, 10am–12pm Feed the Birds £6 per child.

Booking essential. Age 5+.

BEWL Water Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Tunbridge Wells TN3 8JH, 01892 890000, www.bewlwater.co.uk Quad Bikes (available every weekend until 16 Sept). Attractions open every weekend until 31 Oct. 15 & 16 Sept Dragon Boat Festival 13 Oct Lap the Lake Help raise money for Build Africa. For more information call 01892 519619.

THE BLUEBELL RAILWAY Sheffield Park Station, East Sussex, 01825

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720800, www.bluebell-railway.co.uk 27 Oct–4 Nov Kids for a Quid Trains run on the hour from 11am–4pm.

BRANDS HATCH CIRCUIT Fawkham, Longfield, Kent DA3 8NG, www.motorsportvision.co.uk/brands-hatch 22–23 Sept MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship 20–21 Oct MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship 3–4 Nov Truck Superprix and Fireworks

BROMLEY MUSEUM The Priory, Church Hill, Orpington BR6 0HH, 01689 873826, bromley.museum@bromley.gov.uk Free family club first Saturday of the month.

30 Oct–1 Nov, 2pm–4pm Half Term Drop In Sessions: World War I based activities.

CHISLEHURST CAVES Caveside Close, Chislehurst BR7 5NL, 020 8467 3264, www.chislehurst-caves.co.uk Entrance to the caves is by guided tour only. See website for opening times and special events.

Open every day during Half Term.

DARTFORD BOROUGH MUSEUM Market Street, Dartford, Kent DA1 1EU, 01322 224739, museum@dartford.gov.uk www.dartford. gov.uk/museum Discover more about Dartford and its history with the help of children’s activity sheets.

Until 24 November Play to Win! An exhibition celebrating the history of sport in the borough, featuring local clubs, sports and sporting heroes.

DIGGERLAND Roman Way, Medway Valley Leisure Park, Strood, Kent ME2 2NU, www.diggerland.com/kent This adventure park is great fun for all ages. Where else can you ride, drive and operate full size construction machinery to your heart’s content? * Don’t forget to use your 15% money off voucher – see page 13.

as ide do e r mo s to ilies For thing .famo.uk of www nt.c ke it vis ndon lo

Art Makers, Family Art Fun, African Drumming Workshops for Children, Nature Explorers, Discovery for All sessions and Pond Dipping (check website for dates and times).

7 Oct, 11am–11.45am A World of Stories 29 Oct & 2 Nov, 11.30am, 1.15pm & 3pm Take a Tour with Mr Horniman

KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY 01580 765155, www.kesr.org.uk Booking essential.

29 & 30 Sept A Day Out With Thomas 29 Oct–2 Nov, 10.40am, 11.45pm, 1.15pm & 2.45pm Halloween Fun 31 Oct & 2 Nov, 6.30pm Fright Night Train Hop aboard for a spooky ride.

KENT LIFE Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone ME14 3AU, 01622 763936, www.kentlife.org.uk 6 & 7 Oct Apple Weekend 27 Oct–4 Nov Spooktacular Half Term Fun Children can play trick-or-treat, knock on the doors of historic homes and see who is lurking behind them, plus there are sweets for every child who dares to wake the residents! 3 Nov Bonfire & Firework Spectacular Be amazed by fire breathers lighting the roaring bonfire and join in the countdown to this annual spectacular musical firework display. Enjoy fairground rides, music and more.

SPA VALLEY RAILWAY West Station, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QY, 01892 537 715, www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk 16, 7, 13 & 14 Oct A Day Out with Thomas

Days out – Historical Houses & Gardens CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE

Hill Hoath Road, near Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7AD, 01892 870347, www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk 16 Sept Country Fair 28 Oct, Halloween carve a pumpkin and bob for an apple!

CROFTON ROMAN VILLA

Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 9QG, 01892 861 444, www.groombridge.co.uk Half-Term activities TBC.

Crofton Road, Orpington BR6 8AF, 020 8460 1442, crofton.roman.villa@gmail.com 31 Oct & 2 Nov, 10am–4pm Half Term Fun Activities include mosaics, Roman games, dressing up and brass rubbing.

THE HOP FARM FAMILY PARK

ENGLISH HERITAGE PROPERTIES

GROOMBRIDGE PLACE GARDENS & ENCHANTED FOREST

Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PY, 01622 872068, www.thehopfarm.co.uk 15 & 16 Sept, 9am–5.30pm Southern Model Air Show 25–31 Oct, 6pm–late Freak Week Hop Farm Fright Nights Not recommended for children under 10. 27 Oct–2 Nov, 10am–5pm Half Term ‘Witches and Wizards’

HORNIMAN MUSEUM Forest Hill SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Regular activities include: Busy Bees, Storytelling,

Members free. www.english-heritage.org.uk

ELTHAM PALACE & GARDENS Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE, 0870 333 1183 28–31 Oct Time Travellers Go…Ghosts & Ghouls Creepy crafts and spooky activities.

HOME OF CHARLES DARWIN (DOWN HOUSE)

Luxted Rd, Downe Kent BR6 7JT, 01689 859119 31 Oct–4 Nov Time Travellers Go… Discoveries & Inventions Activities to inspire your budding Einsteins.

www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

»

Win a family portrait with Smile Please Studio!

We have teamed up with Smile Please Studio in Sidcup (www.smilepleasestudio.co.uk) to offer one lucky reader a free family portrait (up to a maximum of six people)

Worth £150!

Smile Please Studio prides itself on its stylish images that capture everyone’s personality! With Christmas just around the corner, this would make a perfect present to give to loved ones.

To be in with a chance of winning visit: www.familieslondonkent.co.uk/competitions All entries must be received by 31 October 2012. * Prize is valid until 24 December 2012 for a maximum of six people; prize not valid for acrylics and canvases.

Win a Kindle with Metanium Everyday

Top tips for Family Skiing Holidays

Paul and Francesca Ayres moved to Morzine 18 years ago, started a family ski company (Chilly Powder) and had three children.

We asked them to tell us about the most important things you should consider when taking your family on a ski holiday

1

Don’t rush to high altitude resorts because children can sometimes get altitude sickness. It’s also unsafe for babies under the age of one to go up in high cable cars because of the air pressure.

Finding a resort with an easy, short airport transfer will be a blessing! Also check that your airport transfer company is properly licensed and has the child car seats you’ll need.

While you’re on your transfer vehicle from the airport to your holiday accommodation, try to sit as near to the front of the bus as possible – then there’s less chance of the windy roads making your children sick.

It’s pointless wasting money on expensive ski clothes for your children – they’ll only outgrow them by next year!

Borrow what you can from friends or try TK Maxx in September and October!

If your children are attending ski school or childcare, make sure you sew their names in to their clothes so they don’t get mixed up with others.

If you’re taking a pushchair to use during your holiday, take one with large wheels. Standard chairs will be impossible to push in the snow but your holiday company may have a stash of them for you to borrow.

Don’t forget that sun block is just as important on a winter holiday as it is in the summer. Take sun block rather than spray so that you don’t have to take your gloves off to rub it in!

2 3

Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment (www.metanium.co.uk) is giving away a Kindle which can store over 1,000 of your favourite books. It’s small, light and portable so you can even slip it in your changing bag! * Plus, one runner up will win a specially designed set of seven baby body-suits.

• Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment has a unique double action formula to help guard against nappy rash. It helps seal in the skin’s natural moisture keeping the skin soft, smooth and supple. It’s gentle enough to use every day and at each nappy change.

•Metanium Everyday is available at Boots, Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, leading pharmacies and www.boots.com

To enter visit: www.familieslondonkent.co.uk/competitions All entries must be received by 31 October 2012.

Home Fitness Bootcamp... 5 days flat!

Win a 1 day experience (worth £54)!

Your body. Your place. Your time.

The home fitness bootcamp in 5 days flat designed for busy mums and dads that puts the fun back in exercising and is the most efficient life-changer in town (www.returntoglory.co.uk).

Losing inches, increasing fitness levels, improving body shape are some of the benefits you can expect to achieve with Return to Glory’s expert personal home fitness trainers dedicated to get your mind and body in tune in 5 days flat! In the privacy of your home we develop 1 hour workouts, each day for 5 days that are challenging for athletes yet safe enough and modified for your needs. It’s bespoke to you, your maximum level of fitness and training goals. Each exercise targets the mind with consecutive high intensity one-on-one training ie weights, aerobic (cardio) and anaerobic using kettle bells, club bells, medicine ball workouts and high energy yoga. All the equipment/products are supplied

by Return to Glory. The Home Fitness Bootcamp... 5 days flat is £270.

To enter visit: www.familieslondonkent.co.uk/competitions All entries must be received by 31 October 2012.

4 5 6 7

For more details about Chilly Powder see www.chillypowder.com

020 8466 6977

13

What’s On

booking essential. 31 Oct, 1 & 2 Nov Autumn Park Trail for Families £1 per person.

Events

Paws in the Park

22–23 September Detling, www.pawsinthepark.net A pawfect event for dog lovers everywhere with have a go events and attractions including agility, K9 AquaZone, flyball, My Dog’s Got Talent and search and rescue. Adult: £10 (£8.50 in advance), child & concessions £7.50 (£6.50 in advance).

The Big Draw: 2012 in Lines www.campaignfordrawing.org/ bigdraw Local events include: Chislehurst Common: 29 September, 1pm–5pm ‘Forever England’ Celebrate English heritage, folklore and traditional crafts. Adult £2, child £3. www.thebigdraw.co.uk Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks: 6 October, 11am www.nationaltrust.org. uk/emmetts-garden Cutty Sark (Greenwich): 6–7 October,

Red House 11am–1pm & 2pm–4pm Take a closer look at lines in and around the ship and create a reflection of Cutty Sark using a range of drawing materials.

Normal admission charge applies. www.rmg.co.uk/ cuttysark Gerald Moore Gallery (SE9 4QF): 6–7 October, 10am–2pm Come and draw using crazy materials and unexpected tools! Drop-in and pick up a pen to work on a fun large-scale drawing with other families and a local artist. £1 donation. www.geraldmooregallery.org Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest (Goudhurst): 30 October, 10am–2.15pm Pre-booking advisable; £2 per child. www.forestry.gov.uk/ bedgebury Red House, Bexleyheath: 31 October–4 November, 1.30pm–4pm Why not take your inspiration from the Red House, William

Morris and the Pre-Raphaelites?

Normal admission charges apply. www.nationaltrust.org. uk/red-house

Bexleyheath, Kent DA6 8JF, 020 8304 9878 14 Oct, 11am Apple Day 31 Oct–4 Nov, 1.30pm–4pm The Big Draw Why not take your inspiration from the Red House, William Morris and the Pre-Raphaelites?

SISSINGHURST CASTLE

Baby & Toddler Show 5–7 October Glow, Bluewater, www.babyandtoddlershow. co.uk The Baby & Toddler Show is perfect for mums and mumsto-be with over 200 brands exhibiting, plus specially designed workshops from everything from baby safety to finance. Adult £10 or £7.50 for two; online 2 tickets for £10 with code BT16. Children free.

The Baby Show 26–28 October Earls Court, London, www.thebabyshow.co.uk There’s over 300 baby and maternity brands for new and expectant parents plus advice and fashion shows. Advance tickets can be purchased until midnight on 25 October.

Sissinghurst, nr Cranbrook, 01580 710700.

15 Sept, 7am Early Bird Walk £12, including a breakfast roll. 13 Oct, 7am Early Bird Walk £5.

27–30 Oct, 11am–2pm Great Escape Can you find the password to escape and win a prize. Kids eat free with every trail purchased.

Smallhythe Place

Smallhythe, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 7NG, 01580 766111 22 Sept, 11am Orchard Day 27–31 Oct, 11am–4pm Halloween Trail £1.50.

PENSHURST PLACE & GARDENS Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8DG, 01892 870307, www.penshurstplace.com 27 Oct–4 Nov Spooky Half Term Fun Pumpkin trails from 10.30am & crafts from 12pm to 4pm.

31 Oct Slightly Scary Storytelling & Fancy Dress Competition

FUN WITH ANIMALS CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

Cudham Road, Downe Village, Kent BR6 7LF, 01689 861603, www.xmastreefarm.co.uk Check website for Half-Term activities.

EAGLE HEIGHTS WILDLIFE PARK LULLINGSTONE ROMAN VILLA Lullingstone Lane, Eynsford, Kent DA4 0JA, 01322 863467 Wonder at the display of artefacts and dress up in traditional Roman costumes.

HALL PLACE AND GARDENS Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ, pre-book tickets on 01322 621238, www.hallplace.org.uk Until 16 Sept The Mystery of the Hidden League and the Misplaced Museum Join this trail of over 60 tasks that will lead you through the grounds and into the historic house.

16 Sept, 2pm Eco Explorers Garden Walk £2.

21 Oct, 2pm–4pm Eco Explorers Garden Activity Make a Lantern £2.

29–31 Oct & 1 & 2 Nov, 10am–2pm Holiday Activity: Sun Printing Follow in the footsteps of Victorian photographers by making your own sun print. £4 per child, adults free.

HEVER CASTLE Hever, near Edenbridge, TN8 7NG, 01732 865224, www.hevercastle.co.uk 14–16 Sept New Country Life at the Castle Country craft demonstrations and stalls. 29 Oct– 4 Nov Halloween Half Term Spooky Fun

LEEDS CASTLE near Maidstone, ME17 1PL, 01622 765400, www.leeds-castle.com

14

27 Oct–2 Nov Halloween at Half Term 3 & 4 Nov Fireworks Spooktacular Pre book.

NATIONAL TRUST Members free. For prices & opening times visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk Chartwell Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS, 01732 868381 31 Oct–2 Nov, 4pm–7pm Hallowe’en Twilight Trails Tickets £10.95 (pre book).

Emmetts Garden

Ide Hill, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 6BA, 01732 751509 22 Sept Family Volunteering Day 22 & 23 Sept, 10am–4.15pm Fantastic Fungi 6 Oct, 11am The Big Draw 27–31 Oct & 3 & 4 Nov, 10am–5pm Spooks and Splashes Enjoy the autumn colour this Half Term.

Ightham Mote

Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks TN15 0NT, 01732 810378 22 Sept Apple & Orchard Day Try varieties of apples dating back to 1220.

27–29 Oct & 2 & 3 Nov, 10.30am–4.30pm Wild Child: Woodland Trail £1 per trail.

28 Oct, 12pm Decorate a Halloween Biscuit 30 Oct, 10am & 2pm Children’s Halloween Cupcake Workshop £5.50, booking essential.

Knole

Sevenoaks TN15 0RP, 01732 450608 / 01732 462100 14 Oct, 2pm Knole Family Deer Walk £2,

Lullingstone Lane, Eynsford, Kent DA4 0JB, 01322 866 577 www.eagleheights.co.uk Flying displays 12pm & 3pm, reptiles and mammal encounter 1.45 pm & daily demonstrations. Check website for Half Term activities.

FARMING WORLD Nash Court, Boughton, Faversham, Kent ME13 9HY, 01227 751144, www.farming-world.co.uk 29 Oct–2 Nov Spooky Halloween Week 31 Oct Spooky Invicta Arachnids Day 2 Nov Halloween Have A Go Falconry

FOAL FARM ANIMAL RESCUE CENTRE Biggin Hill TN16 3AX, 01959 572 386, www.foalfarm.org.uk 1.30pm–4.30pm (except Tues) 29 Sept Fun Day for Dogs Events include a fun dog show and unaffiliated agility show to help raise money for the kennel rebuild. Schedule available at www.agilitynet.com

Godstone Farm & Playbarn Tilburstow Hill Road, Godstone, Surrey RH9 8LX, 01883 742546, www.godstonefarm.co.uk See website for Half Term activities.

Howletts Wild Animal Park Bekesbourne, Nr Canterbury, Kent CT4 5EL, 0844 842 4647, www.aspinallfoundation.org/ howletts Passport events: September: The pachyderm party; October: Fanged Fiesta!

www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

✶

ngs isti at L e e l r s Movailab milie .uk a w.fa t.co n wwonke d lon PORT LYMPNE WILD ANIMAL & SAFARI PARK Lympne, Nr Hythe, Kent CT21 4PD, 0844 842 4647, www.aspinallfoundation.org/portlympne Passport events: September: Go Native; October: Who’s Hunting Who?

SOUTH OF ENGLAND RARE BREEDS CENTRE Woodchurch, Ashford, Kent TN26 3RJ, 01233 861 493, www.rarebreeds.org.uk 27 Oct–2 Nov Halloween Fear & Fun 26, 27 & 29–31 Oct Fright Night (Evenings) Not recommended for children under 12.

WILDWOOD Herne Bay CT6 7LQ, www.wildwoodtrust.org 15 Sept Spider Day Event includes spider hunt at 11am & spider crafts from 2pm to 4pm.

15 & 16 Sept Saxon Re-enactment

THE WOODLANDS FARM TRUST Welling DA16 3RP, 020 8319 8900, www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org Closed Mondays

child (includes Little Seedlings lunch).

27 Oct–4 Nov, 10am–4pm Busy Bee’s Woodland Walk Answer questions to win a prize.

Free with Nature Trail entry, no need to pre book.

29 & 31 Oct, 11am Halloween Cookie Workshops £8.95 per child, includes lunch. 5+.

30 Oct & 1 Nov, 11am Build a Bug or Bird Box Workshops £8.95 per child. Age 5+.

LULLINGSTONE COUNTRY PARK & VISITOR CENTRE Eynsford, DA4 0JF, 08458 247 600, www.kent.gov. uk/kentcountryparks Charges may apply, pre-booking on some events advisable 14 Oct Wiggly Weekend Celebrate all things wormy with this family-friendly event with the Earthworm Society of Britain. For more information call 01322 865995.

27 Oct–4 Nov, 10am–3pm Half Term Activity Trail £2.50 per trail sheet.

28 Oct, 5pm–6.30pm Mini Scream Spooky pumpkin trail for the under 8s. £5.

29 Oct, 10am–12.30pm Prickles in the Park Meet and learn about Harry the hedgehog.

Under 12s (only one adult per child). £6.

FUN WITH NATURE

RUXLEY MANOR GARDEN CENTRE Maidstone Road, Sidcup DA14 5BQ,

Main Road, Knockholt TN14 7LJ, 01959 534386 All activities must be pre-booked.

27 Sept & 25 Oct, 10am, 11am, 12pm & 1.30pm Storytelling for the Under 5’s Enjoy ‘Handa’s Surprise (Sept) & ‘Kipper’s Toybox’ (Oct). £4.50 per

020 8300 0084, www.ruxley-manor.co.uk 27–29 Oct, 10am–4pm Halloween Hats £3.99.

COOLINGS GREEN & PLEASANT

SHORNE WOODS COUNTRY PARK Brewers Road, Shorne, Gravesend,

DA12 3HX, 08458 247 600, www.kent.gov.uk/ kentcountryparks Charges may apply, pre-booking on some events advisable.

26 Oct, 6.45pm–9pm Shorne Scream Explore the park by lantern and prepare for some spooky encounters! Age 8+. 27 Oct, 6pm–7.30pm Mini Scream Spooky pumpkin trail for under 8s.

27 Oct–4 Nov, 10am–3pm Half Term Activity Trail 30 Oct, 10am–12.30pm Prickles in the Park Meet and learn about Harry the hedgehog.

Under 12s (only one adult per child).

TROSLEY COUNTRY PARK Waterlow Rd, Vigo, Meopham, Kent, DA13 0SG, 08458 247 600, www.kent.gov.uk/kentcountry parks Charges may apply, pre-booking on some events advisable 20 Oct, 6pm–7.30pm Mini Scream Follow a trail for some spooky encounters. Under 8s.

1 Nov, 10am–12.30pm Prickles in the Park Meet Harry the hedgehog. Under 12s.

WILDERNESS WOOD Hadlow Down, East Sussex TN22 4HJ, 01825 830509, enquiries@wildernesswood.co.uk, www. wildernesswood.co.uk Lots of fun weekend activities ranging from woodskills, storytelling in the woods and craft activities. All activities must be pre-booked and children must be accompanied by an adult.

14 & 30 Oct Family Fungi Hunts 29 Oct Woodland Monsters We have taken every care in preparing the listings in this magazine but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed, so please double check details before setting out.

Look out for the November/December issue

Countdown to Christmas: fun things to do as you prepare for the festive season, plus What’s On, competitions & much more

Classified Ads FOR SALE Baby Clothes for Sale End of line stock for sale, all new.

Call 020 8300 1830 for more information

You could be here...

020 8466 6977

Tuition

Services

Le tri

Home & Office Organiser

• 07551 329 645 (Julianah) • info@letri.co.uk

Handyman For all your household repairs and odd jobs.

I offer a professional and courteous serivice.

www.letri.co.uk

www.shaunthehandyman.co.uk 020 8249 3264 or 07913 656 502

To advertise your business here call 020 8466 6977 or email editor@

PAINTING & DECORATING

familieslondonkent.co.uk

Interior / Exterior Experienced, Reliable, Clean Fully Guaranteed / Insured FREE ADVICE AND QUOTE John:- James & Lamont 020 8462 4646-07802 535695

15

Become

a foster carer “Fostering has been an amazing experience - it’s really changed our lives” Could fostering be the right challenge for you?

FOSTER WITH FCA • Competitive fee, up to £397.25 p/w • Comprehensive and ongoing local support • 24 hour support, 7 days a week

INTERESTED? If you want to make a lasting difference to a child or young person’s life and you have a spare bedroom then get in touch.

We are an established independent fostering agency with 15 years’ experience, specialising in looking after children of all ages.

0800 023 4561 www.iwanttofoster.com Issue 46 : (E)

the

boathouse

Blend Celebrate with friends, family and colleagues at one of our DJ Parties or Tribute Nights.

We have some great acts which include: Freddie Mercury, ABBA, Rod Stewart, Robbie Williams, Elvis, Madonna, Adelle, Motown and more...

On New Years Eve we open until 2am, see details and book online at:

www.BlendBarGrill.com

Book for Christmas now www.dansonboathouse.com

0208 298 0284

In Danson Park, Bexleyheath

www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

272-274 Broadway, Bexleyheath.

0208 298 0284