Families London South West Issue 243 Jan-Feb 15

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® Jan/Feb 2015

SouthWest

•Help to choose a nursery •New Year New you •Hundreds of events and things to do...

The French Nursery school Bilingual education in SW7 and SW1 • 2-5 years French • Spanish See our advert on page 34 For more information please call on 0207 259 2151 or email:

ABI CAMPBELL

photography

marie-laurence@thefrenchnurseryschool.com

“Families® SW” – useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in SW London.

Find us online: FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Contents

Jan/Feb 2015

04-07

News & info

• Local news • Clubs and activities news • School news

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SouthWest

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Our Roving Reporter’s Column Candida Jones investigates community energy generation

10-12

04-07

New year New you Time to detox our lives, be fit and happy?

14-15 ABI CAMPBELL

photography

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18 All content ©Families 2015 www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 Editorial: editor@familiesmagazine.co.uk News: news@familiesmagazine.co.uk Adverts/artwork: adverts@familiesmagazine.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on info: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Learning holidays We learn more about life when we travel than any other time

Front cover photo, with thanks to:

Perfect angels or little horrors!

How to get your children to behave

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Education at home 10 ways to support and encourage your young reader

Next issue: March2015. Deadline: Late January •“Families® South West” heads a group of magazines.

All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. There are around 40 UK local editions with a print run of more than 700,000 copies in all, in which you can advertise too. Oh, and we have a very useful website… familiesonline.co.uk

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10-12

• Midwife-led units safest for straigtforward-births • Learn to read in 4 weeks for FREE with Reading Eggs • Pauline Quirke Academy in Barbados

• MOVING? Families® magazines can be be franchised in new areas. Read initial franchise information on the website or call us.

• Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd, Pewsey, Wiltshire.

• Designed by Shirley Trimmer

Noticeboard

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NURSERY FEATURE • What to expect from your child’s nursery education • Local nursery news • Twenty years on, what has changed?

• What is Montessori Education?

• We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

• Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources — meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced. Inks are soya-based, which can be re-cycled.

39-46

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What’s On • Theatre • Museums & Galleries • Days out • Diary dates & events

Find us on Facebook & Twitter FamiliesSW

Jan/Feb 2015

35-42

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News

Compiled by Joanna Parry

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FamiliesSW

Rock star kidz

Pop-up cancer shop returns

For your next children’s party why not book the gang from Up Beat Music? Their parties are original and fun - you can dance, sing and record a CD with your friends, or form a band and cut your first single. Each party is tailormade for you so you can choose the song to record or the track to create your dance routine to, before performing it at the end of the party. Plus, you even get a photoshoot for your very own CD cover! Call for a quote on 07816 901396, www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk

70th Birthday One of the UK’s oldest youth orchestras, Wimbledon-based Stoneleigh Youth Orchestra turns 70 this year! To celebrate, the orchestra held a 70th Anniversary Concert at the Royal College of Music, with cellist Richard Harwood joining the orchestra to perform the Dvorak Cello Concerto.

At Stoneleigh, musicians of all backgrounds can develop their skills and nurture a lifelong love of music in a challenging, fun, friendly and supportive environment,. It has over 100 members aged 9 to 18 and rehearses weekly in Wimbledon, each term culminating in a concert at a major London venue such as Cadogan Hall, the Royal Academy of Music or the Royal College of Music. Great news for the future of music education! www.stoneleighyouthorchestra.org.uk

Born to Perform All-time kids’ favourite Perform Drama launches new classes this month at Cineworld Fulham Road.

Classes for 4-7 year olds will take place on Mondays at 4-5pm and 56pm and Wednesdays at 4-5pm, while classes for 7-12 year olds are on Wednesdays at 5-6pm. All Families readers get a free trial session and £30 discount on fees in January – just remember to quote code FAMI30115 when booking.

Don’t miss out!

Call them on 0845 400 1278 or visit www.perform.org.uk

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Like us

The Get to Know Cancer shop returns to Southside this January, helping local people reduce their risk of getting cancer. The shop, which helped hundreds of people last year, will again be giving information on common cancers and advice on how to prevent them.

Specialist nurses will be on hand to provide free health check-ups, including blood pressure and BMI monitoring, and there is no need to book. ‘In Wandsworth, cancer is the main cause of premature death in the under 75s,’ said Director of Public Health Houda AlSharifi, ‘so it’s vital that people are wellinformed and get themselves regularly checked out. We’re also keen to help people make the simple changes in lifestyle that we know can make a huge difference.’ Open everyday but check dates on www.gettoknowcancer.org

Dino arrives!

The world's most complete Stegosaurus went show at the Natural History Museum recently.

The first complete dinosaur specimen to arrive at the museum in nearly 100 years, the 150 million year old Stegosaurus stenops is the only Stegosaurus in a public collection outside the USA, and it will take pride of place inside the Museum’s Exhibition Road entrance. At 560 centimetres long and 290 centimetres tall, similar in size to a 4x4 vehicle, the skeleton has over 300 bones. It was found virtually complete in the USA 11 years ago, with only the left arm and base of the tail missing.

Wow! It’s definitely worth a visit this half term. www.nhm.ac.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Clubs and classes Get ready for back to school with Explore Learning

New French classes on Saturdays

Get the new school term off to a great start at Explore Learning. Their tailored courses are designed to support your child to become a confident and engaged learner.

Explore Learning centres provide maths, English and 11+ tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Explore fits easily around family life; the centres are open 7 days a week, with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis. Call your local centre to book a free trial, or visit www.explorelearning.co.uk

In addition to their very successful holiday camps and after school classes, Et Patati Patata now offers fun French lessons on Saturdays. Ma petite école du samedi is a French immersion programme led by experienced, certified native French speaking teachers. Ideal for 1-9 years olds, in Fulham Library, Balham and West Kensington.

February half term classes too. For more info and to see the detailed programme, please contact Caroline Eugénie on caroline@etpatatipatata.com. www.etpatatipatata.com 07966 893674.

Handwriting practice

Fly off this February…

Perform are running half term holiday courses across SW London, where your little one can transform into a superhero. The Perform Superhero School runs 16-18 February for ages 4-7 – after completing some specially designed Superhero training, the children will go on a thrilling adventure culminating in a mini superhero musical show for friends and family. With costumes, live music, scripts, improvisation and dance, they'll have an amazing time making new friends. Courses take place in Kensington, Notting Hill, Fulham, Battersea, Kew and Putney, £100 (25% discount for siblings), book by 31 January and receive 10% off when you quote FAMI310115. For more details go to www.perform.org.uk/classes-courses/holidaycourses/superheroes or call 0845 400 1278.

Happy 5th anniversary to Blue Wave Congratulations to Blue Wave Swim School, which is now 5 years old. Blue Wave started its operation and to offer lessons on 22 Feb 2010. In the past 5 years, it has gone from strength to strength. Term after term, more and more children are joining them to learn to become confident swimmers.

At the start, Blue Wave was only offering the total of 3 hours of swimming lessons for children aged 3 years old and above. But now, it is operating on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays, at 2 venues in Wandsworth and Wimbledon.

Its learn-to-swim programme includes its very popular ‘Parent & Child’ classes for under 3s. Blue Wave is proud to offer swimming lessons to all ages and swimming abilities: from 4 months to 99 years. To find out what parents think of Blue Wave’s swimming lesson, please visit: www.bluewaveswim.co.uk and check out the testimonials, they are great! 020 8090 1415.

Jan/Feb 2015

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HAPKIDO SELF DEFENCE classes available for children, teenagers and adults.

Free taster class

Dan Jun breathing, Kicks, punches, throws, joint-locks, tumbles, jumps and breakfalls.

Hapkido teaches: •Respect •Discipline •Control & sensitivity •Defence

•Fitness •Confidence •Inner calm & peace •Strength & agility

Instructor: Jon Bailie, 2nd Dan Qualified Hapkido Instructor and fully insured Classes available @ St Luke's Community Hall SW12, Broomwood Hall SW11, The Contact Centre SW4 and other venues

For all enquiries/bookings, please call on

07932 667 336 Private tuition/home visits also available

www.semokwan-hapkido.co.uk

Inclusion in these pages is always FREE: send to news@familiesmagazine.co.uk

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Clubs and classes Spa for babies The wonderful Mandara Spa in the Park Plaza Hotel, Westminster Bridge is now offering brand new baby massage classes for new mums. The ‘Loving Touch Baby Massage' is a new treatment for babies to help smooth the transition from womb to world. Baby massage can help your baby fall into a deeper (and much longer!) sleep while helping to reduce crying. It can also alleviate colic, relieve constipation, and stimulate circulatory and nervous systems. ‘Our therapists are trained to work with new parents on the massaging techniques so this treatment can continue from home,’ said therapist Jade Rowland. ‘A short massage at evenings before bath time will help a baby feel loved and form a deep connection between parent and child.’ Loving Touch baby massages are £85 for 5 sessions and a complimentary Tiddley Pom product. To book call 020 7620 7300 or www.mandaraspa.com/london

Do we really know how fit our children are?

As parents we all know our children's ability in reading, writing and arithmetic, but often have no idea of our children’s fitness levels. We are all aware of the benefits of active children and the impact this has on their future of health how do you find out?

The UK's leading children's activity provider Fit For Sport has been working with kids across the country to help them to get active. A study of 10,000 children found fitness levels improved on average up to 15% over a year, just by engaging kids in their active schools programme.

They're encouraging families across the nation to take their FREE kids active challenge. Fit For Sport founder Dean Horridge said: "It's really easy to take simple steps towards a more active lifestyle. Active children are far more likely to become active adults, so encouraging kids now sets them on a journey for an active, healthy life, and they should have fun doing it!"

To discover your child's fitness levels and how to improve them simply visit www.fitforsport.co.uk to take the Active Challenge, track progress and access lots of tips and advice for an active 2015!

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Funky Moves presents…

The Festival of Funk To launch their 10th birthday in true Funky Moves style, Funky Moves have teamed up with The Bedford, Balham, to bring a fun-filled day for all of the family. From the nightclub room featuring a cool DJ, disco, dance workshops and performances from the Funky Moves crew… to the amazing other 4 rooms, featuring arts and crafts, makeovers, dressing up and photo booth, games, and a toddler area…this event will not disappoint! There are licenced bars in each room for the parents plus amazing giveaways for the kids and with 25% off lunch to all tickets holders from 12-2pm. This will be a sparkly day out in amongst the greyness of February. Come and be colourful, happy and vibrant with the Funky Moves team.

1st February 2015, 2-5pm, all ages welcome, at The Bedford, 77 Bedford Hill, Balham, SW12 9HD. Tickets in advance £8 for adults £5 for kids (under 16) On the door (cash only) £10 for adults £7 for kids (under 16) Book on www.funkymovesdance.com We’ll be there!

Guess who has won an award!

Family favourite The Music House for Children has won the Hammersmith & Fulham award for Best Creative Business. The Music House for Children offers classes in piano, guitar, drums, trumpet, cello, singing and more, as well as specialist music classes for babies and the under 5s. They also run an exciting range of holiday workshops and concerts, and now they have been recognised for their achievements. Well done from all of us at Families Magazine! 020 8932 3652, www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

School news For the love of books Streatham & Clapham High School hummed with excitement before Christmas when the first STREAM South London Book Festival, organised by the school, took place. The Children’s Laureate, Malorie Blackman OBE, opened the event, inspiring her audience with her passion for her craft and about tackling difficult subjects such as racism.

Members of the school and the wider community filled nine venues, from the marquee in the Sports Hall to the Staff Dining Room, while the very youngest visitors enjoyed stories, readings, drawing, and dogs and dinosaurs with a host of authors, and with over 40 authors taking part there was something for every reader including an ‘Adults Writing for Children’ workshop. What a fantastic idea! We really enjoyed the workshops we attended. www.schs.gdst.net

Eridge House becomes Parsons Green Prep School Eridge House has always been a school that creates a happy and positive learning environment, where children can really strive for excellence, both academically and socially. This will continue and develop even more, as they become Parsons Green Prep School.

As well as continuing teaching through the creative curriculum they have also introduced the Maths+ Programme linked to STEM. They say: “We believe that Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics are key subjects to securing positive opportunities and career paths for future generations. The Maths+ Programme aims to challenge and extend children in their mathematical thinking as well as supporting and emphasising the key skills of STEM. Investing in the new computing curriculum, upgrading our Mac suite and providing individual tablets for children to use are just some of the ways that we aim to provide extended opportunities for our children and engage creative minds. Chess clubs is offered for children before school and the benefits of chess will further enhance our Maths+ initiative.

1 Fulham Park Road, London, SW6 4LJ 020 7371 9009 www.eridgehouse.co.uk

Over-praising pupils can lead to low attainment A recent report by the Sutton Trust, ‘What Makes Great Teaching’, claims that lavishing praise on low-attaining students is not encouraging, but can in fact give a message of low expectations. Other commonly used teaching methods, such as streaming by ability, are shown to have little positive effect.

Professor Robert Coe, from Durham University said: “Great teaching cannot be achieved by following a recipe, but there are some clear pointers in the research to approaches that are most likely to be effective, and to others, sometimes quite popular, that are not.” www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educatio nopinion/11204935/What-really-makesgreat-teaching.html

Captured in style Why not start off the New Year by organising that family photoshoot you’ve always wanted?

Leading portrait photographer Victoria Obolensky has been an established photographer for over 12 years, taking stunning photographs of children…pure, relaxed and truly beautiful. ‘I love to create the extraordinary from what could be deemed as ordinary,’ says Victoria. ‘My camera is the tool, which captures the true essence, light and beauty of any person, place or thing.’ Children and Baby Packages start from £350, including the photo shoot and a disc with all edited images. Call Victoria on 07747617987, or email victoriaobolensky@gmail.com. www.victoriaobolensky.com

For your Valentine With Christmas out of the way, the next gift to think about might be for Valentine’s Day. But you don’t need to do any searching for yourselves - we at Families have discovered a fabulous company perfect for when you need that elusive, original gift and don’t have the time to look for it. Set up by two mums, Letteroom has one-ofa-kind gifts that are wonderfully quirky and unique. Choose from a wide array of personalised products, from welly boot cuffs to personalised books to engraved money boxes. For your special Valentine this February, how about an engraved silver-plated bottle stopper, £32.95, or a personalised secret message belt, £19.95? www.theletteroom.com

Jan/Feb 2015

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Our Roving Reporter’s column This month Candida investigates community energy generation

(Solar) Power to the people!

By Candida Jones, winner of our writing competition

“More than 90% of the electricity we use to light our communities and nearly all the energy we use to run or heat our cars, homes and factories comes from large, centralized, highly polluting, non-renewable sources of energy”, according to Greg Pahl, author of the book “Power from the People”. And this energy doesn’t come cheap.

But it doesn’t have to be this way

Power from the people, rather than power sold to the people Community energy groups are springing up across the country with the aim of generating, as the title of the book suggests, power from the people, rather than power sold to the people.

The way these groups work is they raise money through crowd-sourcing, community funding or peer-to-peer lending, to install solar panels on community buildings. The panels then generate clean energy, reduce energy bills and earn a small feed-in tariff (FIT) from the large energy firms. These FITs then repay the initial investment, provide investors with a modest return and help keep energy bills and carbon emissions low. Any spare money raised through FITs is then invested in more solar panels or other community projects.

To put it more simply, these solar panels act like small power stations, owned by and for local people which generate an income for the community. A bit like your very own mini Battersea Power Station in your own backyard. Only clean.

“These schemes represent a win-win approach”, according to Rex Osborne, Leader of the Labour Group in Wandsworth; “because they reduce people’s energy bills, tackle climate change, raise money and give the community a sense of empowerment and common cause.”

And yet the capital is lagging behind. According WSP, a consultancy, London boroughs make up 23 of the 25 lowest ranking local authorities for solar installations and the entire bottom 10 in the national league table.

Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea and Hammersmith and Fulham are all found in the bottom five, with Wandsworth and Merton barely doing much better.

Successfully generating power in Brixton However, the news isn’t all bad. Brixton is one area where the community is successfully generating its own power and reaping the financial, social and environmental rewards.

In 2012, Brixton Energy Solar 1 raised £58,000 with the support of 101 local investors and installed a 37.24kW solar photovoltaic array on the Loughborough Estate. The impact of the scheme has been more than just financial or environmental. The scheme now employs 11 local residents either as Directors or within Repowering London, the cooperative behind the scheme, and many residents gained work experience or training during the solar installation, leading to jobs elsewhere. The scheme is predicted to save £1200 on energy bills and cut emissions by 14t CO2 through the life of the project and it provides an annual 3% return for shareholders.

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It has been so successful that two further projects; Brixton Energy Solar 2, also on the Loughborough Estate and Brixton Energy Solar 3, on the Roupell Park Estate, have since been launched.

Other local groups are trying to emulate Brixton’s success. In Wandsworth two are leading the way; Community Renewable Energy Wandsworth (CREW) and the Furzedown Low Carbon Zone (FLCZ), although both warn that a lack of political support is making it hard to pull off the large-scale projects like those in Brixton, which were set up when FITs were set at a higher rate by the Government.

Great support from the council “Without the active support of the Council and long-term planning from the Government, these schemes are increasingly squeezed”, says, Giles Read, Chair of FLCZ, citing reduced FITs and the Council’s reluctance to allow installations on Council-owned properties. Despite these barriers, however, FLCZ has successfully worked with a local school on energy efficiency measures including insulation and installing thermostatic radiator valves, with the help of a grant provided by Greener Jobs Alliance.

CREW, meanwhile, is working with residents on the Henry Prince Estate in Earlsfield to install solar panels there.

According to Paul White, a CREW member, “if only the Council could see how enthusiastic the residents of the estate are and open their eyes to the environmental and community benefits of these schemes, I’m sure they would let us install some panels on their buildings, but for now, without Council support, we are focussing our efforts on privately-owned businesses. If we pull those off, the Council must surely change its mind”. Other members of CREW are in talks with St George’s hospital on renewable energy projects there.

As Paul White says, “Where there is Government support, great things can be achieved”. He points to Germany where, by 2010, 51% of the more than 50,000 MW of renewable energy capacity was owned by farmers or individual citizens, representing a staggering $100 billion in private investment.

With the obvious and manifold benefits of these schemes, how long until London follows suit and supports solar power to the people? www.chelseagreen.com/bookstore/item/power_from_the_people www.repowering.org.uk www.energyforlondon.org www.brixtonenergy.co.uk www.ucu.org.uk/greenerjobsproject http://yes2renewables.org/2012/01/12/germanys-community-owned-power-leadsthe-way/ furzedownlowcarbonzone@gmail.com crew.coop.london@gmail.com

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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New year New you

Time to detox our lives?

Be fit, healthy and happy?

Many of us wake up on January 1st feeling exhausted from Christmas, a little worse for wear from the night before and desperate for the kids to go back to school. But we also find ourselves scribbling lists of New Year’s resolutions – to get fit, lose weight, get stuck in to that pile of paperwork on the kitchen table and, often, to give our working lives a shake up too. The New Year is not just about detox-ing our bodies – it can also be a time to detox our lives. In fact, January is a fantastic time for those of us with children in nursery or full time education for the first time to go back to work, start a new venture, set up our own business or to re-train in something that will get us leaping out of bed every morning!

From a new job or a whole new career, the world is your oyster as a working mum. If your hours are limited by the school run, setting up your own business or taking up a franchise can offer you the opportunity to do something you love while working flexible hours, and the options are limitless. You can choose anything from running a yoga franchise to teaching little ones dance or drama, from teaching Spanish to starting your own Families magazine*! Take a course, start a marketing business, design websites, set up a blog, open a café – it’s up to you. There are plenty of websites out there to help you get started and find a new job, re-train, choose the right business, give you ideas, advise you on tax and even help you design your logo, so there’s no excuse not to get stuck in this New Year. Take a look at www.gov.uk/starting-up-a-business, www.workingmums.co.uk, www.mumandcareer.co.uk, www.mumandworking.co.uk and www.mumpreneuruk.com You can do it!

Time to relax, unwind, exercise, socialize and meditate?

The Bank of England Sports Centre provides a unique location steeped in English tradition, a private members sports club set in 32 acres of award winning grounds close to Richmond Park. The Centre provides members with the opportunity to relax, unwind, exercise and socialise in wonderful surroundings. With a vast range of facilities, classes and courses they have something for everyone. Email today and arrange a personalised tour.

*NEW FOR 2015* - Meditation Course: they are running a four week course on stress relieving and relaxing techniques invented five thousand years ago. By the end of the four weeks you will have been introduced to seven breathing exercises for meditation and relaxation.

- Junior Netball: The Bank of England Sports Centre is delighted to have joined forces with Skills n Sport to offer their junior members this exciting new activity.

Get in touch today, ask a question or book a tour and find out what else they offer!

Priory Lane, London SW15 5JQ 020 8392 4360.

* in areas where we don’t have a magazine, see Familiesonline for franchise information.

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

New year New you Recipe provided by

5 reasons to choose clinical Pilates rather than normal Pilates Every exercise can be tailored to what your body truly needs.

2. Working under the guidance of a physio ensures that you do exercises that won’t harm you.

3. The exercises can be made more functional and applicable to everyday life.

4. You can then be encouraged to work harder knowing the exercises are safe and effective for you.

5. Your compensations or ‘cheats’ can be spotted and corrected.

1.

20% off at Six Physio Parsons Green. www.Sixphysio.com 020 7371 7666.

Roast lamb with redcurrant glaze

Look after your body

Fancy some gravy? For an extra ProPoints value of 1 each, make up some gravy using 2 tsp lamb gravy granules per person.

12 ProPoints per serving

Time to look after yourself!

“Love yourself enough to live a healthy lifestyle” Kate Horwood, Founder of Body Edit

Body Edit is a new-wave barre method that sculpts your entire body whilst developing balance, strength and flexibility. Create all-over proportion and tautness without the bulk... what more can you ask for?! Contact them now for class locations in 2015 or to book your Private Training consultation. www.bodyedit.com info@bodyedit.com 0794 111 5159.

Jan/Feb 2015

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We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle.

Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks?

Pharmaton Vitality capsules are packed with vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also aid mental and physical wellbeing. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies.

Try Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, to feel the positive difference. (Licensed medicine.) For the relief of fatigue. Always read the label.

Article supplied by Pharmaton

950g (2lb 2oz) leg or half leg of lamb on the bone, trimmed of all visible fat 1 garlic clove, sliced thinly 2 tbsp redcurrant jelly 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint 1 tsp Dijon mustard 900g (2lb) new potatoes, halved if large 480g (1lb 1oz) frozen peas 1 Preheat the oven to gas mark 5/190oC/fan 170oC. Pierce the leg all over with the tip of a sharp knife and insert the slices of garlic into the holes. Season well and roast for 30 minutes per 450g – this joint should take just over 1 hour.

2 Combine the redcurrant jelly, mint and mustard.

Fifteen minutes before the lamb has finished roasting, baste it carefully with the redcurrant marinade. Return it to the oven for the remainder of the cooking time, then allow it to stand for 15 minutes before carving.

3 Meanwhile, cook the new potatoes until tender and steam the peas. Thinly slice the lamb and serve with the vegetables.

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New year New you Time to move to greener pastures?

Are you thinking of moving out of London down to the South East of England? Frances Hollings and Charlotte Tomlinson at Private Organisers Ltd may be the answer to all of your prayers. The friends have set up a new bespoke, and approachable relocation/search company that takes all the stress out of the moving process, viewing houses with only you in mind, creating short lists in the quest for that dream home. Stopping the need for you to be permanently on the M25 viewing unsuitable properties in equally unsuitable areas. They can also advise on schools in the local area and with the help of their enviable “black book” can oversee and recommend architects, builders, plumbers and all those people that make your new house your home.

Whether it is to buy a property or to rent in order to get a feel for the area, from their first informal meeting with you Charlotte and Frances will make sure you tick off all the items on your large ‘to do’ and ‘what if’ lists.

To find out more please visit their website www.privateorganisers.co.uk or call them for an informal chat on 07710 477141

OPEN AIR FIT Time to get fit in the fresh air?

Exercise is one of the most important things to improve physical and mental health in both adults and children. This includes reducing your risk for serious health problems, easing depression and anxiety, boosting your energy and mood, and relieving stress. And the great news is you don’t have to be a fitness fanatic to reap the benefits!

No matter your age or fitness level, Open Air Fit has lots of activities enjoyable ways to help you feel better, look better, and enjoy life more.

They hold regular fitness drop in sessions (like mixed circuits and Boxfit), personal training, post natal fitness classes, toddler physical development groups, multi-sport kids camps, training for those with special needs, and sports-themed parties for special occasions.

If you and your family want to start living a healthier life in 2015, see their schedule of activities at www.openairfit.com or email Melvin@openairfit.com

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WIN one month's fitness training programme with Buggybells!

Beat the baby bulge, get more energy and feel fitter, regain your confidence and meet other mums. Buggybells, run by award-winning Fit Pro Jamie Lloyd, is the Ultimate Fitness Club for mums who want to exercise with their little ones outdoors without the added cost of childcare.

It’s a fast, fun and effective programme three times a week on Wandsworth Common. Using a combination of kettlebells and bodyweight conditioning it increases fitness levels and tones the whole body – including all those stubborn post-natal areas! buggybells@gmail.com To enter, go to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/competitions Terms and Conditions apply. The competition closes at 9am on 2nd February 2015.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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Learning holidays Walpole park and walled garden

By Joanna Moorhead

Of course a vacation is a time to laze around and do nothing; but they're also bursting with opportunities to find out something new, and chasing those chances could give you the most fun of all.

“A learning holiday?” said one of my daughters, when I suggested we could combine going on vacation with supplementing her education. “Have you gone completely bonkers?”

I hadn't; but what I did realise, at that moment, was the folly of being upfront in my views about how holidays could be an opportunity to impart knowledge. The trick is never to mention it, and not under any circumstances to admit or volunteer that you are aiming to weave a thread of anything educational through your spring or summer break. But the truth is, holidays are one of the best learning opportunities a parent has - and finding out new things that complement what's happening in school can be a whole lot of fun when it's far from the classroom and a long way from home.

In terms of focus, there are two possibilities. Either pick up on a child's existing passion — for art, perhaps, or for aeroplanes or fashion or whatever it is — or try to give them a new perspective on a subject they're finding difficult to engage with. In my own experience, I've always taken the former (easier) route; but I do sometimes think I should do more to help my kids with the parts of the curriculum they find hardest, and holidays could be the perfect time to do that.

Learning outside of the classsroom

Where to start? Here are some ideas Bank of England museum

Art Children start learning about individual artists from nursery school. Pick an artist your child has talked about at school, or has seemed drawn to when you've looked at his/her work together. Easilyaccessible artists who use a lot of bright colours are ideal - think Van Gogh, Hockney, Georgia O'Keeffe.

It's easy to make any holiday art-orientated, since art galleries are everywhere: but if you want, you can make it about more than just museums. Try a trip to Arles in the south of France where you can see copies of Van Gogh's most famous paintings set up on permanent easels in the exact spot where he painted them, and dine at the Starry Night Café; or have a trip to Cornwall and find the landscapes and fishing village scenes made famous by the Newlyn School. Or holiday in Pont-Aven in Brittany, once home to Paul Gaugin; or head for Italy and one of the numerous artists' trails there such as the Piero della Francesca trail in Tuscany.

Science & nature The simplest way to introduce nature into your holiday is to go for a walk in an undeveloped area, and to explore the green space around you. Look for bugs, birds, small animals and their habitats; if you're not very knowledgeable about these things yourself, head for a park or arboretum where there are trails and leaflets with advice on what to look out for.

Star gazing is another great way to weave science into your holiday. You can see the stars from your back garden on a clear night, but a camping holiday is often the key to the most impressive display of the constellations. Wetlands centres and natural history and science museums are more great ways to introduce the subject into your vacations in an exciting way.

Literacy Literacy isn't just about books: taking your children to the places where the characters from, and authors of, their favourite books will show them a whole new side to reading. For younger children,

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Children learn from a variety of experiences theme parks such as Thomasland (www.draytonmanor.co.uk) or Peppa Pig World (www.peppapigworld), both open at February half term and then from March, bring their characters to life in a new way and will prompt even more interest in the books; older children will enjoy a trip to Haworth in west Yorkshire, home of the Brontes and their heartrending true story. Or head to the Jane Austen attractions in Hampshire, or to the Thomas Hardy museum in Dorset; or the Lake District for a taste of Wordsworth.

History You can't go wrong with history: in fact, it's hard to have a holiday without it straying onto the margins even if you don't try. Castles, National Trust houses, museums, cathedrals, palaces; the world is heaving with history, and it only takes a tiny bit of imagination to put it into action on holiday. For something different, try taking your kids along to an event at an English Heritage or National Trust property designed to bring the history to life. Or join a child-friendly guided tour of a palace or cathedral - good guides will be full of interesting stories that spark the imagination of even the child who might think history is boring in school.

And don't forget to enjoy learning on holiday yourself!

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Chilly Powder

Learn a new physical skill Summer activity holidays in the Alps must be one of the best-kept secrets in travel.

Francesca and Paul of Chilly Powder have been operating summer Mountain activity holidays in Morzine, France, since 1995 and have seen a massive boom in mountain biking holidays and a steady growth in family activity holidays.

If you’re holidaying with small children, finding a resort that delivers in-chalet childcare, easy access to activities and plenty of entertainment for the parents can prove to be a challenge. Chilly Powder offer the flexibility for parents to do outdoor activities with their children.

Younger children can be left in the crèche or kid’s club available for half or full days. www.chillypowder.com

“We learn more about life when we travel than any other time” We asked Travel Matters, why they have chosen this sentence as their motto … and this for the last 16 years.

Karen, the owner of the travel agency told us: “We love to organize holidays, which are more than a ‘fly and flop.’ We’ve helped several families holiday in Egypt - seeing the Pyramids over half term or Easter is popular. Sunshine as well as education! A short break to the Northern Lights to satisfy the scientist in your family is not unusual. It goes without saying how educational a safari can be for everyone involved.”

Their Make Travel Matter campaign, founded six years ago, is to raise awareness at all ages of how to make travel a force for good. They created an interactive presentation for primary schools. The talks are engaging with children discussing and learning about how their holidays and travel can make a difference to the countries they visit. They encourage the children in thinking critically and creatively about places they visit.

Northern Lights to satisfy the scientist in your family – Travel Matters

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Pop in and see the team, Travel Matters, 10 Blandfield Rd (off Nightingale Lane) 020 8675 7878 www.travelmatters.co.uk

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Nurturing and developing young people's potential through dance, drama and singing.

For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

Stagecoach Schools enrolling now Battersea Fulham Merton Park & Tooting New Malden Putney Wimbledon www.stagecoach.co.uk

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020 8946 0845 202 020 8942 020 8540 0845 265 020 8946

2986 5727 3502 7791 7050 3400

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Perfect angels or little horrors!

Children can quickly turn from one to the other!

How to…get your children to behave

By Hannah Hunter

Picture the scene. You’re at the supermarket and you’ve refused your child something that they want, causing them to freak out and scream loudly. You react by shouting back at them. Before long the situation is out of hand, with both of you at full-volume and people staring.

All kids will have a tantrum at some point, some simple steps can help to avoid this behaviour or at least lessen it. Trying a bit of distraction when the anger starts to build up - telling a joke, pulling a silly face - can be really effective.

Tantrums “Tantrums happen to all parents. They do not mean you are a bad parent. You can try to prevent them with praise and sticker charts. If that fails, you can try to distract the tantrums away. But once started, the best way to stop them is to ignore them.

If it's too late for humour, then take a deep breath and a mental step back. Is their behaviour really unreasonable? Can you just ignore it and carry on with your shopping? Maybe you have a spare few minutes to put the trolley aside and take them out of the situation? It could be either out of that aisle or maybe even out of the supermarket, where you can both calm down.

“Remember: distract, ignore, but do not punish."

Rewards “At home, a sticker chart is a great way of encouraging good behaviour. Each time your child is good, give them a sticker. Naughty behaviour gets a 'sad face'. Points mean prizes - enough stickers get them a treat.”

Positive Parenting This approach may seem like pie in the sky when faced with a screaming 3-year old, but it’s never too early to try what the NSPCC calls ‘positive parenting’. If you show love and affection to your child and praise them when they are behaving well, they will associate getting attention with good behaviour.

Active ignoring is encouraged, while physical punishments like smacking should be off limits: “smacking or biting back gives a very confusing message – that it is OK to use force or to hit physically when you are angry or to make a point.”

So when you feel like you’re at the end of your tether, try to stay calm. After all, a toddler having a tantrum in the supermarket is one thing, but a screaming adult in the frozen food aisle? Not a good look…

Here are some hints from leading Clinical Psychologist, Professor Tanya Byron, on how to smooth out behavioural problems, and get the best from your child.

Be positive "One of the biggest mistakes we make as parents is to leave our children alone and say nothing to them when they're behaving nicely.

“Ignore the behaviour you don't want. Instead, emphasise the positive with cuddles, kisses, and praise, and tell them all the things they need to hear in order for them to understand they will get attention for doing things nicely.”

Distraction “As soon as you feel the temper rising, distract them onto something else: a funny song, story, or 'did you see that green squirrel with orange stripes just fly past the window?”

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Positive example “It's straightforward but it works - your children will copy you. Swear and they will swear, smack and they will smack. Lead by example.”

Ignoring “Ignoring gives the message that the behaviour gets no reward and if you use this technique alongside praising every lovely behaviour, your children will get a very powerful message.”

Time out “First ask your child to stop misbehaving. If that doesn't work, ask again, but more firmly. This gives the child two chances to change his or her behaviour, and if they do, you praise them.

“If they refuse to stop the behaviour, or if the tantrum escalates, you go for Time Out. Take your child firmly but with no attention to a safe place where you can leave them for a period of one minute for each year of their life (i.e. three minutes for a three-year-old) up to a maximum of five minutes. You should not talk to your child through the door or give them any other form of attention during the Time Out period.

“Once the Time Out period is over, explain to your child why they were Timed Out and then move on and praise them at the first opportunity.”

Professor Byron’s new book The Skeleton Cupboard, is out now, published by Pan Macmillan. www.panmacmillan.com/book/tanyabyron /theskeletoncupboar

Helpful Websites: www.nspcc.org.uk/help-and-advice/for-parentsand-carers/guides-for-parents/betterbehaviour/better-behaviour_wda90710.html www.youngminds.org.uk NHS www.nhs.uk/Conditions/pregnancy-andbaby/pages/dealing-with-difficultbehaviour.aspx#close

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Education at home

10 ways to support and encourage your young reader

By Sal Jefford

We all know the importance of reading to babies and toddlers, but it’s equally vital that we continue to read to them, and with them, to support and encourage them as they learn to read for themselves. Here are ten tips to enable you to help them on their way to becoming confident readers with a love of books.

1 Don’t force them to read if they are not in the mood.

That’s a sure way to put them off reading.

7 If they make a mistake and don’t notice, don’t interrupt them.

Let them finish the sentence before asking them to read the word again. If they make a mistake again, ask them “Does that sound right?” or “Does that make sense?”.

2 Continue to read to them.

Reading to your child not only enables them to enjoy some oneon-one time with you, but it helps them to learn about the fluency of reading as they hear you modelling appropriate speed, pacing and intonation.

8 Review the book afterwards.

Ask them what their favourite part of the story was, or why they thought a certain character did something. Make sure you tell them what you thought as well, especially if parts of the storyline could have been seen differently from another viewpoint.

3 Find different types of books Try picture books, short stories, simple chapter books, poetry, etc.

Try non-fiction as well – kids love to know about the world and how things work. If they are interested in the subject then they are far more likely to enjoy reading about it. Remember: you are the expert on your child; you know him better than anyone else and you will have a better idea of what subjects he will or won’t enjoy.

5 Help with deciphering If they are struggling with a word and want you to read it for them, ask them if they recognise any letters, or sounds within the word. Point specifically to parts of the word, or help them to break longer words down into shorter segments. Then blend the sounds together to form the full word.

4 Give them time to experience the book as a whole.

Don’t expect them to sit down with a picture book and read the story without looking at the pictures; pictures bring the story to life and in most books will help the reader to understand what the words are telling them.

Jan/Feb 2015

6 Don’t tell them “you know this word” Even if you know they do know that word, if they knew it or

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remembered it, they would have read it; and it’s frustrating and demoralising to be reminded that you know something but have forgotten it. Instead, help them to work the word out themselves, either using the previous tip or by asking them to look at the picture for clues. Learning to read is not just about decoding a jumble of letters, it’s also about understanding the meaning of the words in the correct context and the pictures can help.

9 Always praise their reading efforts.

Hearing you say “I was so impressed with how you worked out that tricky word using clues from the pictures” will boost their confidence and make them feel proud of their achievement.

10 Finally, let them see you reading regularly Perhaps more importantly, let’s them see you getting enjoyment from reading. If reading is a normal habit for you, then it’s likely that your child will pick up that habit too.

‘Bonus’ tip: Get them to read to a pet, or a favourite teddy, if they feel more comfortable doing that.

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Noticeboard Midwife–led units safest for straightforward-births

(is it really such surprising news?)

Call the midwife: We asked Neighbourhood Midwives to comment on the new NICE Guidance on low risk pregnancies recommending midwife-le d, out of hospital care.

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“We are delighted to read the new updated NICE Intrapa rtum Guidance for care of healthy women and their babies during childbirth.

We welcome the recommendations, which underline the importance of increasing the range of choices available for women particularly in where they choose to have their baby. The guidance includes the finding that giving birth outside of an obstetric unit reduces the rate of interventions. A key priority is that there should be a culture of respect for each woman as an individual and a model of care that offers one to one support in labour.

This is in line with Neighbourhood Midwives own experience and person alised midwifery service that offers women a known and trusted midwife through out their pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period.

Neighbourhood Midwives works in close partnership with the NHS to provide women with the choice of a midwife they can get to know throughout their pregnancy and who will be with them at the birth of their baby, whether they choose hospital care, a birth centre or a homebirth.

Visit Neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk or ring 020 8874 6624 for a free consultation. www.nice.org.uk/news/article/midwife-led-units-safe st-forstraightforward-births

High fliers

The Pauline Quirk e Academy of Performing Arts is taking their fantastic performing arts experience to Savannah Beach Hotel in Barbados this year. In a unique col laboration with Virgin Holidays, childr en aged 4-16 will be able to sing, dance and act in PQA’s action packed works hops while you relax on the beach.

‘I’m really excited about working with Virgin Holidays on the launch of the Pauline Academy at Savannah Quirke Beach in Barbados,’ said Pauline Quirke. know more than any ‘Both parties one how important it is to offer fun activities people while they are for young on their holidays, and our fabulous worksho exactly that. Familie ps do s will go away with som e brilliant holiday me the sessions not only mories as build young peoples’ confidence, but they out the performer in also bring everyone whilst enjoyi ng the sunshine!’

Workshops have bee n skilfully crafted by PQA’s creative team an educational eleme which includes nt tied into the colou rful history of the Ca regaling tales of everyt ribbean, hing from local pirate s to the ghosts of Sav Beach, and culminatin annah g in a performance of the ir very own PQA sho classes are free of cha w. The rge to children stayin g at Savannah Beach www.virginholidays.co . Book at .uk or call 0844 557 3859. Find your nea Quirke Academy at rest Pauline www.pqacademy.c om or call 0845 673 2 022

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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We specialise in:

• Adult and Baby lessons • Toddler lessons • Learn To Swim classes • Pre-Club Squad Training for Children • Adult Beginners and Intermediate Training

Cindy’s Swim School is focused on delivering a variety of personalised lessons to local families.

We have a passion for swimming instruction and practice within a structured and safe environment.

Our swimmers learn the joys of swimming and stroke technique with programmes incorporating games and exercise to improve each swimmer’s confidence in the water.

• Ha lf-term • Sw im Clu Crash Cour ses bs for adva m • Ho nced swimm ore liday C e rash C rs ourses

cindy@cindysswimschool.co.uk 07902 782675

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Concert for children ry 3pm Sunday 1st Februa NW3 1NG Rosslyn Hill Chapel on the door tickets £5 available

Jan/Feb 2015

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Nursery Feature What to expect from your child’s nursery education

By Hannah Hunter

We’ve all heard about the importance of early years education. Apparently a child who has gone to pre-school has more chance of getting better exam results and ultimately earning higher wages, according to new research undertaken by academics at the Institute of Education.

So you send your child to nursery, in the hope that it will improve their education prospects. But what are they actually going to do there all day?

They’re not going to tell you! Teenagers struggle enough to recall what’s happened a few hours before, so you can’t expect detailed information from a 3-year-old.

To give you some idea of what will happen, you can look at the legal requirements for nurseries in the UK. The Early Years Foundation Stage framework is a document that sets out the statutory welfare and developmental goals for children 5 years and under. It gives guidelines for safety and learning and development for all early years providers - all nurseries, child minders, playgroups, preschools and reception classes

The EYFS explained The EYFS framework document can seem daunting, but it’s there to ensure that all children receive a suitable level of care.

It sets out the legal requirements that keep your child safe and promote their welfare.

This includes: • Basic checks, such as staff security checks • Setting the number of children each member of staff can look after • Ensuring the facilities and equipment are safe and suitable • Checking the quality of the environment, e.g. recommending access to outdoor space It also covers the seven areas of learning and development. These are: • communication and language • physical development • personal, social and emotional development • literacy • mathematics • understanding the world • expressive arts and design The activities they will do at nursery, to support their learning and development will be unique to your child’s needs. They will learn by playing and exploring, being active, and through creative and critical thinking which takes place both indoors and outside. There is a requirement for ‘continuous provision’, which in layman’s terms means that there needs to be high quality resources and activities available all of the time, so your child can learn through play in lots of different ways.

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“At London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) we believe in supporting parents to be the best they can be. We do this by creating a consistent, creative partnership between nursery and the home. Good quality parental involvement in children’s development is crucial; evidence shows what parents do is more important than who they are. To inspire parents and children, we share resources, fun ideas, and provide regular feedback to enrich and extend children’s learning.”

Rashid Iqbal, Director for Children and Families Services

Assessment The EYFS also lays out guidelines for assessment of your child’s progress. Soon after your child turns 2, you will get a written summary of how your child is progressing in communication and language, physical development and personal, social and emotional development. Any areas where they need extra help or support will be highlighted at this stage.

The next written assessment will come when your child is 5, usually at the end of their reception year, which is the last year they are classed as being in early years education. This will include assessment of skills such as writing their name, reading and talking about a favourite book, speaking to people your child is not so familiar with or their understanding of numbers. The school will give you a progress report including some of this information.

How will I know how my child is doing?

Your child will have a ‘key person’ at nursery, preschool or reception class, who is responsible for putting together information on how they are developing. This person will be your main point of contact, and it’s important that you work together and communicate well. Any worries about your child should be discussed with their key worker, and they will be able to build on what your child is learning at home.

Look at the full document here: www.gov.uk/government/publications/earlyyears-foundation-stage-framework--2 For a detailed parent’s guide to the EYFS go to: www.foundationyears.org.uk/files/2014/08/EYF S_Parents_Guide-amended.pdf For more general advice for parents: www.ndna.org.uk/parents

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Nursery Feature

Twenty years on, what has changed?

Just over 20 years ago Miss Emma and her husband Keith took over the ownership of Dawmouse Montessori School in Fulham. We sat down with Emma and so Emma over a skinny latte (they me children 20 years ago! never had those 20yrs ago) and talked about her time in the nursery business.

FSW: I suppose the first question should be: How does running your own school for 20 years feel?

Emma: Well apart from very privileged, I should say exhausted.

The truth is the job keeps you so busy that I can’t believe 20 years have slipped by.

FSW: Do you remember the first day at school?

Emma: I can remember we only had 17 children and 4 staff. I was the Head teacher for the previous two years so the job description was the same, but the responsibility for the staff and children became more heightened. I’ve actually been at the school in some capacity for 25 years.

FSW: You must have seen a number of changes in that time?

Emma: Too many to mention really. Being a Montessori Nursery with a philosophy that is over 100 years old the teaching methods have not changed and it is great to see a child develop through

their time with us. That still gives me the most joy. I won’t get on my soapbox about Ofsted and government legislation but it can be very tiresome.

where Jesus went after he died on the cross. One little boy called Sam piped up.”I know Miss Emma, Jesus died and went to Devon”. It still makes me laugh now.

FSW: Do you think the Early Years are taken more seriously these days?

Emma:There’s no doubt the emphasis on early years education has taken prominence over the last few years. The problems that causes is that children are then rushed through a crucial period of their development just to satisfy a prep school wish for them to be reading and writing at 4 years old.

They should be allowed to develop at their own speed and I am determined we at Dawmouse will never change from that ideal.

FSW: I suppose some of you earliest pupils are adults themselves now?

Emma: It does make me shudder.

The worst thing happened just a few weeks ago when a lady called to make an appointment and said she used to come to the school and was now bringing her daughter. Now that does make you think.

FSW: On a light hearted note you must have had some funny anecdotes?

Emma: Again it would take forever to list them. A very early one was when we asked a small group at Easter time if they knew

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

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

FSW: So any plans for retirement?

Emma: I will continue to work as long as I still enjoy it. The children still make the job so special and I still look forward to the first day of every term and the last day of course!

FSW: We wish you the best of luck for the next twenty years.

Bespoke housekeeping and nanny recruitment services

We discuss your needs and expectations to establish a relationship of continuity and trust.

All candidates are subject to a thorough screening process. References and suitability of all candidates are fundamental.

Bees Knees Nursery School

Our philosophy: We aim to fulfil your needs.

We match candidates to their strengths

12 Priory Lane, Putney SW15 5JQ Tel: 020 8876 8252

Safety and discretion is paramount!

A caring, lively, happy and stimulating environment for 2-5 year olds (Two year old grants available)

For more information please visit: www.surteespartnership.co.uk 0844 800 5240 Jan/Feb 2015

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“All my children have loved this very special nursery”

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Nursery Feature

So you think you know about Montessori education?

By Andrea Dalling, founder and owner of Andrea’s Montessori

Maria Montesori was the first woman in Italy to graduate as a doctor of medicine in 1896. She became interested in education when working with children who nowadays would be recognised as having special educational needs. Montessori was given the opportunity to apply her educational methods in 1905 when asked to organise a pre-school in a San Lorenzo slum housing project. She called it “Casa di Bambini” (The Children’s House).

Montessori and the early years: Maria Montessori believed that the most important period in a child’s life is from birth to six years of age, when the child possesses an “absorbent mind”, enabling the child to learn effortlessly as he/ she interacts with his/ her environment. From birth to three years, a child forms basic skills and functions (sensitive periods) such as order, language, movement, and from three to six years a child refines and adds to these skills.

Montessori put strong emphasis on providing a “nourishing place for the child”: a place where careful preparation provides a friendly environment and where educational materials and activities are made easily accessible. Today, a Montessori setting allows specific resources to be arranged by subject matter where they can freely choose activities ranging in complexity.

Guidelines/ tips for parents when choosing and visiting a Montessori provision for their child: Look for Montessori Accreditation and Evaluation Board (MEAB) accredited settings by visiting www.montessori.org.uk. To achieve accreditation means that the setting has undergone rigorous selfevaluation and external assessment and has demonstrated commitment to the delivery of high quality Montessori education, as well as having qualified Montessori teachers leading the learning.

When you visit a Montessori childcare provision observe the following: • Child-centred approach.

• The teacher follows the child’s individual needs within the environment.

• Calm and warm atmosphere offering the “favourable environment”, and where materials are laid out for the children in an orderly manner on child-sized shelves.

• Small vertical (mixed-age) groups that encourage the children’s social and emotional development.

• Free choice of activities to encourage concentration, coordination, independence and confidence.

• Spontaneous play and self-initiated activities through the “work cycle” and “cycle of activity” both, indoors and outdoors.

The “work cycle” is the three-hour period of time in which children have the opportunity to spontaneously select activities both, inside and outside the classroom, playing alone or with friends. During any work cycle the child will be engaged in many cycles of activity; at their own pace.

It is important that parents also ask questions about the daily routine including meals, resting facilities,

how the child learns practical skills and self-care.

Look at the quality and range of learning materials, extra activities on offer and how the freedom of choice is accommodated throughout the work cycle, both during morning and afternoon sessions.

Andrea’s Montessori, 020 8133 4932, SW12. andrea@andreasmontessori.co.uk www.andreasmontessori.co.uk

Dewdrops Play Scheme & Nursery A vibrant new environment for children 3m-5 years.

We offer both full and part-time packages, plus Saturday flexible care 9am-4pm.

Situated conveniently just behind Nandos on Streatham High Road, SW16, we give little ones the opportunity for play and fun, plus learning and developing new skills.

Ofsted registered for 20 children.

To visit call 020 8769 8967 or 0785 279 7990

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Nursery Feature

Your local nursery news Brand new LEYF nursery to open in Stockwell

Northcote House and Bennerley House

In early 2015, Lambeth families can look forward to the opening of the new Stockwell Gardens nursery. Run by the London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) in partnership with the South London YMCA, the nursery will have brand new facilities, toys and equipment as well as an outdoor play area. It is located on Stockwell Road within easy reach of Stockwell tube station and will care for children from birth to five years.

To find out more, please contact LEYF on 07751 064606, email stockwell@leyf.org.uk or visit www.leyf.org.uk

Northcote House based between the Commons in SW11, is a family run daycare and nursery school for children aged from one to three years.

In September 2014 they also opened an adjoining pre-school, after school and holiday club, Bennerley House for children aged from three to eight. The nurseries offer flexible hours (including term time nursery school) in a home from home atmosphere.

• Bennerley House, 72 Bennerley Road SW11 6DS, 020 7924 4338 .

• Northcote House, 67-69 Salcott Road SW11 6DQ, 020 7924 3696 www.thehousenurseries.co.uk

Looking for a parttime childcare solution?

If you need childcare for 1, 2 or 3 days per week, then a nanny may be the solution.

Asquith Nannies offer flexible nannies; as the UK’s largest employer of nannies, they can provide a tailor-made service to suit your lifestyle and commitments. They offer full-time or parttime options for your child to be with a daily nanny at home or combined with time spent at one of their UK-leading Asquith Day Nurseries.

Their part-time options are based on providing a daily nanny for a minimum of 1 full day per week.

For more information call 0845 873 7070 or visit www.asquithnannies.co.uk

Est 1976 Ofsted registered and MEAB Accredited An independent nursery school for children 2 to 5 years

• EYFS and Montessori Method of teaching • MEAB inspected and accredited Montessori nurseries (only in SW12) • French, Ballet and Music classes • Morning, afternoon and full day sessions (term time only) • Summer Clubs Nightingale 1 Montessori: St Luke's Church Hall, 194 Ramsden Rd, SW12 8RQ Nightingale 2 Montessori: St Stephen's Church Hall, 35 Weir Rd, SW12 0NU Contact: info@nightingalemontessori.co.uk Nightingale 1 Montessori 07958 567210 Nightingale 2 Montessori 07930 401769 www.nightingalemontessori.co.uk Register early to avoid disappointment.

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New boutique nursery in Fulham Beau Peep’s is a brand new, boutique nursery for 2-5 year olds, in the heart of Fulham. The nursery offers a fun and unique learning experience, with a low child-staff ratio, a Montessori room, covered garden and on-site chef. Beau Peep's is small, independent and the utmost care is given to make your little ones feel at home.

679A Fulham Road, London, SW6 5PZ, 020 3609 5222 www.beaupeeps.co.uk

Cavendish Lodge nursery school

New heights for 'Outstanding' nursery school Two employees at Oaktree Nursery School in Balham have bought the nursery. Headmistress Jill Pearce and class teacher Katka Goodbody have taken over the reins of the popular school for two to five year olds in Balham Baptist Church in Ramsden Road. The joint-principals said the move allows them to give local children the best start in education by steering the Ofsted outstanding school to new heights. Mother of four Mrs Pearce of Tooting, who had overseen the school’s previous ‘Outstanding’ OFSTED attainment said: ‘Oaktree has a fantastic record and we’re looking forward to building on this in 2015. We have already extended our hours and improved our offerings in sport, music and modern languages’.

Ramsden Road, Balham, 020 8166 5932. www.oaktreenurseryschool.com

Children at Cavendish Lodge nursery school near Streatham Common enjoy the very best facilities, education and food when in their care.

Their two buildings are sunny, spacious and homely and have big, well equipped gardens, with gardening plots and pets. They place huge emphasis on creative play and outdoor activities.

Find out more on www.cavendishlodgenursery.co.uk or call 020 8835 8500.

345 is proud to be entering its 32nd year as an independent nursery school where 'children become independent, inquisitive and motivated in a rich and vibrant environment' (Ofsted).

An exceptionally warm welcome and a very large outdoor space awaits every child. We also have Music, Sport and Spanish plus Playball, Relax Kids and Ballet in afternoon clubs.

Please do visit us to capture some of the children's excitement in learning.

Contact: Annabel Dixon 345nurseryschoolwandsworth@gmail.com www.345 nurseryschool.co.uk 020 8870 8441 Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity Road, London SW18 3NH

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Nursery Feature Playdays Nurseries Both branches of Playdays in Wimbledon have recently undergone extensive refurbishments.

There has been exceptional feedback from parents and this alongside with the excellent quality of care that the children receive, furthers their claim of being one of the standout nursery providers in Wimbledon. www.playdaysnurseries.co.uk Queens Road, SW19 020 8946 8139 and Wimbledon Hill Road, SW19 020 8944 8959.

Blundells Nursery Blundells nursery told us: “The last few months have been so hectic, but great fun! December was taken up with celebrations for Christmas and the children had a wonderful time. All podged up with food from the parties, a visit from Father Christmas and the concerts – so successful – Broadway here they come! Now in the New Year, the children have a new theme for spring: Farm Animals. Blundell’s creativity knows no bounds as they watch their themes come to fruition.”

020 7924 4204. www.blundellsnursery.co.uk

Ecole de Battersea et des Petits

The Woodentops Nurseries The Woodentops Nurseries recently hosted a week of activities and interactive music sessions based on nursery rhymes.

Each of their rooms chose their own favourite nursery rhyme and had fun acting it out with music teacher Roger. The parents also got involved sending in photos of them singing the rhymes at home. At the end of the week all the children went home with a lovely hand decorated book of rhymes.

24 Thornton Road, SW12 0LF 020 8674 9514 www.woodentopsnurseries.com

Oak Tree Nursery Situated in Streatham Hill, South West London, Oak Tree Day Nursery cares for children between the ages of three months and five years. Rated good at the last OFSTED inspection, the nursery continues to deliver a high standard of care and education while maintaining their emphasis of learning through play.

The children attending the nursery receive the individual attention that enables them to grow and develop at their own pace, enhanced by the well-resourced learning environment and the large outdoor provision.

020 8674 4844 www.oaktreedaynursery.com

Gardening at Poppits Nursery In addition to being conveniently located in the Putney Leisure centre, did you know Poppits nursery enjoys a very large garden? Children are able to appreciate the outdoors from an early age. They grow vegetables and flowers from seed and love to muck in!

Brenda Symes, the manager told us: "At Poppits nursery we believe in prioritising a well planned experience for our children. This way children can learn in an effective way and enjoy learning both indoors and outdoors."

Dryburgh Road, SW15 1BL . 020 8785 0388.

Paint Pots

L’Ecole des Petits and L’Ecole de Battersea, a bilingual nursery and Prep school, has launched an artistic project entitled Children Shaping London.

The project will draw the children’s attention to arts and culture in its broadest sense, exploring the wealth of artistic opportunity of London. All their artwork will be exhibited at Dimson Lodge on 13th -15th May 2015. www.lecoledespetits.co.uk

Nightingale 2 Nursery This year, Nightingale 2 Montessori has seen an extended garden and a climbing frame pirate ship added. As an MEAB Accredited nursery they have established a close link with an Accredited childminder Andrea's Montessori resulting in three children progressing to their nursery.

Children from Andrea’s came for last year's Christmas show.

Nightingale 2 Montessori 07930 401769 Nightingale 1 Montessori 07958 567210 www.nightingalemontessori.co.uk

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Paint Pots Montessori schools and creative classes based in Bayswater, Hyde Park, Chelsea and The Boltons, offer a unique experience to children aged 2 – 5 years. Through the Montessori materials and environment, the children develop their independence, concentration, confidence and creativity as well as their social, language and motor skills. At Paint Pots House Bayswater and The Boltons they also provide accompanied and unaccompanied classes for children from 6 months - 6 years.

020 7223 0123 www.paint-pots.co.uk

Yukon Tots & Pre-school Now open for children 6m to 5yrs 1 Excellent baby room 1 Free 15 hours childcare 1 Flexibility of hours / days offered 1 Nursery vouchers accepted 1 Pre - school education guaranteed 1 French, dance & educational trips.

1 Bright, friendly and well-resourced environment.

020 8673 3307 Yukon Road, London SW12 9DN

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Nursery Feature New outdoor nursery in Wimbledon London's first full time outdoor nursery is launching this January in Wimbledon to address the increasing disconnect between children and nature.

In recent decades there has been a shift towards an overly indoor and sedentary lifestyle. This has contributed to rapidly rising childhood obesity and increasing behavioural problems in young children today, in addition to a lack of awareness about the natural world and the wonders it holds. The government is failing children by not offering children direct and regular contact with nature. Forest schools and the benefits they provide are a very contemporary and popular social issue, however this nursery Little Forest Folk is taking the concept of forest school to another level, providing full time childcare where 2-5 year olds can spend the vast majority of their day outdoors, rather than the two-hour sessions offered by most forest schools.

Children who play and learn outdoors develop fitness, agility, coordination, tactile sensitivity, and depth perception. A child has significantly less chance of catching the litany of coughs and colds that plague London’s toddlers from October to March when playing outdoors. Not only are there fewer breeding grounds for illnesses, but also the more time children spend outdoors, the stronger their immune system becomes and the healthier they will be. Creative play develops a sense of freedom, independence and inner strength. It nurtures lifelong positive attitudes about nature.

Leanna Barrett says: “Our outdoor forest setting is a safe and secure nature reserve in Wimbledon containing an 8 metre geodesic dome for shelter. Here children are able to play freely whilst learning and engaging with nature. Our forest setting is a fully fenced woodland meadow and contains open grassland, woods and marshes with an array of wildlife including rabbits, moles, squirrels, frogs, insects and birds.”

The Little Forest Folk 07905 757422. www.littleforestfolk.com

Established for over thirty years, The Willow Nursery has recently relocated to fantastic new premises in Grafton Square, next to Clapham Common, London SW4

Situated in a quiet, leafy residential area, our new premises provide us with superior facilities for all our children including substantial indoor space and a fabulous outdoor play area and garden

Please call the number below to book a appointment to view the nursery

Ages 3 months to 5 years Opening times 8 am to 6 pm (Mon to Fri) Excellent facilities * newly renovated premises * stimulating, caring and homely environment * qualified and experienced staff * outside garden * Good OFSTED report * French * Music & movement * Early years foundation stage curriculum * baby unit * close to public transport * Sensory room 58 Blairderry Road, Streatham Hill, London SW2 4SB Tel: 020 8674 4844 Fax: 020 8671 0062 enquiries@oaktreedaynursery.com www.oaktreedaynursery.com

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The Willow Nursery prides itself on providing a safe and happy environment where learning is a joyful and rewarding experience. We are renowned for our creativity in art, craft, music and drama and believe strongly that praise in work and play builds the crucial foundations for building self-esteem and confidence in children

2½ to 5 year olds, mornings only, term-time only Please contact: 0207 498 0319 admin@thewillownursery.co.uk www.thewillownursery.co.uk

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Nursery Feature Clapham Montessori St Paul’s Community Centre, St Paul’s Church, Rectory Grove, SW4 0DX 020 7498 8324. Ros Bowles ros@montessoriclapham.co.uk

Clapham Park Montessori The Contact Centre, 60 Hambalt Road,SW4 9EH 07757 317179 Lucía Gómez-Santana lucia@montessoriclapham.co.uk Registered with the Montessori Society AMI(UK) Accredited by ME (UK), a quality assurance scheme which validates Montessori practice in the UK. Full Montessori curriculum. Extras: Music, Drama, Spanish Sessions 9.15-12.15 plus lunchtime to 1.45 and pm to 3.45.

38 weeks per year. Ages 2 1/2 to 6 years.

Garden/outdoor space available also at The Contact Centre:

Montessori Infant Community Wendy Thompson 07795 364360

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Caring and well-qualified staff provide a very happy atmosphere in which each child feels secure and is free to develop and learn at his/her own pace.

Sessions 9.30-12.00 34 weeks per year. Ages 1 year to 2 1/2 years.

Visit our website www.montessoriclapham.co.uk

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Nursery Feature

THE STUDIO DAY NURSERY 93 Moore Park Road, Fulham, London SW6 Tel: 020 7736 9256 Est. 1987 Head: Miss J.M.R. Williams, NNEB, RSH (Norlander).

Opening hours: 8.00 to 19.00 Sessions: 8.00-13.00 and 13.00-19.00 (18.30 Fri) Weeks open a year: 51, excl. Bank Holidays.

Ages: Two to 5 years Max no. of pupils: 50 Av. class size: 8. Pupil/teacher ratio: 6:1 Curriculum: Montessori, Special Needs.

Activities: Numbers, writing, reading, cooking, project work, art, drama, natural studies.

Facilities: Glass-roofed “messy play” area, art room, own kitchen.

Sports: Games during park visits.

How & age to register: Phone or write for enrolment form, any age.

Fees: Mornings or afternoons; Special weekly terms. Meals extra.

Contact to arrange a visit: Jenny Williams—020 7736 9256.

Because of the emphasis on learning and school work within a happy and caring atmosphere, most of our children find no difficulty passing into the primary school of their choice. JULY 2000 OFSTED advised: “Taken overall, the quality and standard of the educational provision are acceptable in promoting the Desirable Outcomes for children’s learning.” Primarily a Montessori nursery, school work is fun too: every session, groups of 10 to 12 go to the work room in the Red room for 45 minutes with two teachers to follow a concentrated programme they much enjoy.

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The advertisements in this section are mostly arranged in postcode order

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Nursery Feature RISING STAR MONTESSORI SCHOOL St. Clement Church Hall, 286 Fulham Palace Road, London SW6 6HP. Est. 1992 Tel: 020 7381 3511 Head: Mrs H Casson, Mont Dip. Hours: 9.30 to 12.30.

Sessions: 9.30-12.30. Tues: 9.30 - 3pm Weeks open a year: 3 terms Ages: Two to 5yrs. Max pupils: 24.

Pupil ratio: 6:1 Curriculum: Montessori.

Activities: The 3Rs, French, Cooking, Music & Movement, Art plus Gymnastics.

Facilities: Light, airy hall with private outdoor patio.

How & age to register: Tel for an appointment to visit or application.

Fees: on application.

Contact to arrange a visit: Mrs H Casson—020 7736 8729/381 3511.

Rising Star provides an international atmosphere in which children of many different nationalities and cultures develop self-esteem and confidence. Mrs Casson speaks French, Dutch and Italian which is important for parents and re-assuring for their children. Please ask for our comprehensive brochure.

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Dawmouse Montessori Nursery School “To assist a child we must provide him with an environment which will able him to develop freely” Maria Montessori

Celebrating 20 years of excellence in Montessori teaching Come and visit one of our two Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools in Fulham and discover why we have enjoyed such a long period of success teaching children from 2yrs to 5yrs in their early years education.

To learn more about us just visit our new web site at www.dawmouse.co.uk or email miss.emma@dawmouse.com

www.dawmouse.co.uk

Tel: 020 83989294

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Nursery Feature Blundells Nursery – Battersea The Old Court 194/196 Sheepcote Lane SW11 5BW Tel: 020 7924 4204 www.blundellsnursery.co.uk Parent’s comment: I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and all your members of staff for all the wonderful work you have done with Jack. He has thoroughly enjoyed every minute of his time with you. The dynamic and enthusiastic atmosphere created cannot be found anywhere else - we look at countless other nurseries before deciding on Blundells.

Thanks to your high standards of teaching, we believe my son is more than ready to take on his next challenge. He is now well advanced in his reading and writing and his confidence goes from high to even higher!

You have helped him become a wonderful little man. Thanks again for everything and please thank all your members of staff

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Nursery Feature

POPPITS DAY NURSERY PUTNEY LEISURE CENTRE WITH A LARGE GARDEN opening times 8-6 available all year round Quality Childcare 3 mths – 5 years Monday – Friday 8.00 am – 6.00 pm Flexible sessions am & pm AVAILABLE Contact Brenda Symes on 07896 531851 / 07958 331414 email symesbrenda@hotmail.co.uk

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What’s On

Drama See more events in our online What’s On calendar

Magdalene Players Pantomime St Mary Magdalene Hall, Trinity Road, near Wandsworth Common. SW17 7HP See www.magplayers.org.uk for tickets and details.

Drum roll please… for the 2015 Magdalene Players’ pantomime: Peter Pan! Join Peter as we fly to Neverland to meet mermaids, pirates, fairies and the lost boys. This year’s show promises to be enormous fun for all, so get your tickets now.

Show runs 5th – 8th February.

Battersea Arts Centre Lavender Hill SW11 5TN bac.org.uk Antarctica A trio of performers with songs and puppets conjure an expedition to the South Pole in search of a fantastical creature - the Owlabear.

Age 2-6, 10.30am and 1.30pm, £14/£9 To 4 January

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

Chicken Shed Chase Side, Southgate N14 4PE chickenshed.org.uk Peter Pan Wendy Darling loves telling her brothers bedtime stories of the dastardly pirate Captain Hook and the heroic Peter Pan, and the children's imaginations become reality when Peter flies into their nursery one starry night. From £11 To 10 January

Colour House Theatre Merton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Dick Whittington This Christmas, join Dick Whittington as he and his faithful sidekick Puss take to the streets of London in search of fortune and glory. Will the rats and mice form their own union against Dick’s clever, crafty and cunning cat? An imaginative and vibrant take on the classic pantomime. Saturdays and Sundays 2pm and 4pm, £8-£10

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The Colour House Theatre Watermill Way SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk

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LOVES!

If you haven’t visited the Colour House Theatre yet, you are missing a real treat!

First opened as a theatre in the summer of 1995, Colour House stands in the heart of the delightful riverside setting of Merton Abbey Mills. Over 500 years old, the building was also used for the colouring of fabrics for the Arthur Liberty works in the early 1900's.

Today the venue is open for a wonderful variety of theatre shows, events, music gigs, comedy and, most importantly, Children's Theatre. They produce a wonderful range of original musical adaptions of famous fairy tales, vibrant and colourful and very entertaining! They can also hold your next children’s party, where your little ones can watch a show and meet the cast before having a delicious birthday tea.

A new venture is The Colour House Theatre School – an exciting school run by industry professionals and based in a professional working theatre. Classes run on Thursdays and Saturdays throughout term time and include sessions on everything from directing and characterisation to physical theatre – book at school@colourhousetheatre.co.uk or on 0208 542 5511.

To top all that off, The Colour House Theatre also run regular comedy clubs for grown ups and wonderful concerts for kids. Worth a visit this New Year!

To 25 January Jungle Book Join Mowgli on his amazing adventure as he meets friendly, dangerous and unusual characters. 2pm and 4pm, £8-£10 Every Sat, Sun from 7 February

17-21 February Whatever the Weather A charming tale of a weather house and its inhabitants as the winds of change blow in their direction and bring with them all kinds of topsy-turvy conditions. 11am and 1pm 28 February

Lyric Hammersmith

Lyric Theatre

Lyric Square, Kings Street W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk The Princess and the Pea A funny and fantastical re-telling of the classic tale about a Prince, a Princess and a pesky pea. For ages 3-7, 11am & 1pm 10 January The Magic Porridge Pot and other Tasty Tales Three traditional tales with puppets, pop-up sets and original music. 11am and 1pm 24 January Fireside Tales with Grandad Puppets, storytelling and shadow puppetry combine to create an enchanting show. 11am and 1pm 31 January Hansel and Gretel Music, film and puppets in a show for ages 5-11. 10.30am and 1.30pm on 6 Feb, and 11am and 1pm on 7 Feb 6-7 February Shoe Kangaroo and the Big Bad Boot A journey to the island of lost shoes where creatures strange and mysterious live, including the wondrous, magical Shoe Kangaroo. 11am and 1pm 14 February Dotty the Dragon Dotty is a baby fire dragon who lives at the top of a mountain with her grumpy dad. One day she decides to pay a surprise visit to the children who live in the village below.

An enchanting fairytale adventure. 11am and 1pm

W1D 7ES nimaxtheatres.com/lyric-theatre Room on the Broom Tall Stories' magical musical stage adaptation of the children’s book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler flies back into the West End. Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3 and up, from £14.50 To 11 January

Peacock Theatre WC2A 2HT sadlerswells.com/peacock-theatre The Royal Danish Ballet — Bournonville Celebration Ten years since The Royal Danish Ballet’s last visit to Sadler’s Wells, principals and soloists from this internationally renowned company perform a program featuring excerpts from works by August Bournonville, the acclaimed 19th century Royal Danish Ballet choreographer and ballet master who created more than fifty works for the company 9-10 January

The Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com Grandad, Me...and Teddy Too Mia loves her Grandad very much. He lives far away, on the other side of the world, but now he’s coming to

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Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline or we got it wrong...

Families ‘top five’ this month This month we have chosen our favourite shows to welcome in the New Year.

Book now and don’t miss out!

Jabberwocky The Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross Street N1 2DN www.littleangeltheatre.com Did you love the Lewis Carroll poem as a child? This is the chance to see the play inspired by it, and you’ve only got a few weeks left before it closes! A boy leaves the house where the grown-ups rule and goes into the forest, where rules are strange new things waiting to be discovered.

Somewhere in the forest a fearsome monster is waiting…beware the Jabbawock! From the director and writer of ‘Jonah and the Whale’ this is a delicious, dangerous musical extravaganza. For ages 6+, £14/£12.

It’s ‘a superb piece of nonsense,’ says Lyn Gardner in The Guardian. Don’t miss it!

To 1 February

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Treasure Island National Theatre Upper Ground SE1 9PX nationaltheatre.org.uk If you and your kids like mutiny, mystery and murder, this is for you – the National’s brilliant production of Treasure Island, with a twist. It’s a dark, stormy night. The stars are out. Jim, the inn-keeper’s granddaughter, opens the door to a terrifying stranger. At the old sailor’s feet sits a huge sea-chest, full of secrets. Jim invites him in – and her dangerous voyage begins.

Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of murder, money and mutiny is brought to life in a thrilling new adaptation by Bryony Lavery.

From £15, age 10+ To 19 February

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an (c) Robert Workm

KOOZA

Wendy r and Krupa Pattani as Jonny Weldon as Pete

Peter Pan The Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com Our Families reviewer took her 6 and 9 year old to see this enchanting adventure of a show and all three loved it, so book now! Beyond the stars a thrilling adventure awaits…Magic soars to the sky this winter, as Peter Pan and Tinker Bell whisk Wendy and her brothers off to Neverland. Join them in a fantastical world of pirates, mermaids and tick-tocking crocodiles where they must help The Lost Boys battle the villainous Captain Hook. JM Barrie’s classic takes flight in a stunning show for the whole family. Get ready for one of the greatest stories ever told, bursting with original songs, puppetry, swashbuckling fun and fairy dust. Age 6+, £17.50/£11.50 To 14 February

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The Royal Albert Hall Kensington Gore SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com www.cirquedu soleil.com This is your chance to see the fabulous Cirque du Soleil as it returns to the Royal Albert Hall with the sensational KOOZA, and it’s only here for a few short weeks!

Following the show's hugely successful UK premiere at the venue in 2013, KOOZA is set in an electrifying and exotic visual world full of surprises, thrills and chills.

It tells the story of The Innocent, a melancholy loner in search of his place in the world, through contortionists, trapeze-artists, the high wire and the breathtaking 'Wheel of Death'. It’s an adrenaline rush of acrobatics in a zany kingdom! £17.80-£99.40 6 January – 8 February

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The Caucasian Chalk Circle The Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com Don’t miss the Unicorn Theatre’s major new spring production of The Caucasian Chalk Circle, staged to coincide with and support the play on the English and Drama syllabus of KS 3, 4 and 5. Blood runs through the streets and the Governor's severed head is nailed to the gates of the city. A young servant girl must make a choice: save her own skin or sacrifice everything to rescue an abandoned child... A time of terror, followed by a time of peace. Order has been restored and the Governor's Wife returns to reclaim the son she left behind. Now the choice is the judge's: who is the real mother of the forgotten child? A bold and inventive new production of Brecht's moral masterpiece, accompanied by a live and original soundtrack. £10-£16, ages 11+. Find out more about the Unicorn’s Schools Programme at www.unicorntheatre.com 16 January – 21 March

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s On stay and Mia’s excitement is growing. With playful humour and original music, this is a magical family treat for all generations. Ages 2–5, £11.50/£9 To 8 February Curious Cake making gets messy in this perfect introduction to theatre, guaranteeing giggles galore for the young and young at heart. Journey into a playfully imaginative world where kitchen meets the garden, where dirt is good, and where messiness mischievously conjures the perfect birthday surprise. Ages 6 months–3 years, 10.35am, 12.30pm, 2.35pm, £11/£8.50 13-14 February

New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG atgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledon-theatre Cinderella Matthew Kelly and Matthew Rixon are the two Ugly Sisters in this year's panto. With sumptuous sets, gorgeous fairytale costumes, riotous Panto dames, real Shetland ponies, big song and dance numbers, magic and bags of audience participation, and fun and laughter guaranteed for the whole family To 11 January

Putney Arts Theatre Ravenna Road SW15 6AW www.putneyartstheatre.org.uk The Mighty Jungle Meet roaring lions, slithering snakes and mischievous monkeys in the mighty jungle. Two days of drama, music and movement designed to help build confidence and develop creativity while making new friends. £45, ages 4-7, 10am-2pm 18-19 February Play in a Day One day of non-stop drama, music and fun. Your characters, your plot and your own performance at the end of the day. £30, book on 020 8788 6935, ages 7-11, 10am-4pm 20 February

NEW AND SECOND-HAND SKI CLOTHES

Sadler's Wells

FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN

Rosebery Avenue EC1R sadlerswells.com Edward Scissorhands Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production has carved a place in the hearts of thousands across the world since its premiere.

Presenting its first major revival, Bourne takes a fresh new look at this modern fairytale. £12-£32 To 11 January BalletBoyz — Young Men In an intensely moving portrayal of love, friendship, loss and survival, Young Men explores the theme of war and the bonds that develop between the men consumed by it. £12-£38 14-18 January

SKISUITS, JACKETS, SALOPETTES, GLOVES, SNOWBOOTS, GOGGLES, HELMETS, ETC. At 22 Northbourne Road, Clapham, SW4 7DJ

www.skiderouge.com

Any enquiries ring Libby de Rougemont on

020 7720 4871 / 07939 051220 libbyderouge@hotmail.co.uk Do come and bring friends

Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk The Pied Piper of Hamelin Hear the London Philharmonic Orchestra perform a new version of this familiar legend written especially for families.

12pm, £7/£14 8 February Around the World with 12 Cellists Imagine that 12 cellos break free from the orchestra and form their own group to play melodies, rhythms and harmonies all by themselves. 12pm, £14 15 February OAE Tots The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment's always-popular events for the under sixes and their families return. £9/£1 21 February

Anything Goes This brand new production of Cole Porter’s classic, multi-award winning musicalcomedy, Anything Goes transports you to the magical age of tap dancing and high society From 29 January

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice, Blomfield Road W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com A Christmas Carol Ebenezer Scrooge hates everyone and everything, except of course his money. But one Christmas the past comes back to haunt him and he is never the same again. With a cast of marionettes and shadow puppets, this is a beautifully atmospheric retelling of the Dickens classic. 3pm, £8.50-£12 To 11 January Red Riding Hood And The Wolf Who Tried To Eat Her Specially commissioned by the Puppet Theatre Barge, Little Red Riding Hood is retold with poetic beauty, humour and a new twist.

Presented with marionettes and shadow puppets, original music, lighting and effects, this is an enchanting show for ages 3+, 3pm 17 January - 5 March

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The Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com The Polar Bears Go Wild Two friendly (and slightly naughty) polar bears are off on the adventure of a lifetime. Where are they going? £10-£16 From 9 January

Theatre Royal Drury Lane Catherine Street WC2B 5JF www.reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatre-royaldrury-lane Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Roald Dahl's deliciously dark tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Willy Wonka comes to life in a brand new West End musical directed

by Academy Award® winner Sam Mendes. From £16.50 Throughout January and February

Tricycle Theatre 269 Kilburn High Road NW6 7JR www.tricycle.co.uk Lionboy Charlie Ashanti lives in a future where phones are powered by the sun, cars are banned and companies are more powerful than countries.

Award-winning theatre company Complicite fuses storytelling, circus and live percussion in this

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What’s On gripping adventure inspired by Zizou Corder’s bestselling novels To 10 January

The Vaudeville Theatre WC2R 0NH www.pottedsherlock.com Potted Sherlock Olivier Award nominees Dan and Jeff star in the London premiere of their new show 'Potted Sherlock.' This show sees the duo face their greatest challenge yet: the entire works of one of the greatest detectives in literary history, Sherlock Holmes. A delicious romp through the canon of Arthur Conan Doyle, fabulous fun for the whole family. From £22 8 December to 11 January The Wind in the Willows Join Badger, Ratty, Mole and the irrepressible Toad on their adventures. From lazy days on the riverbank to speeding cars, a jail break and criminal deeds cooked up in the Wild Wood, this criticallyacclaimed production lovingly brings Kenneth Grahame's masterpiece vividly to life To 17 January

Museums & Galleries See more events in our online What’s On calendar

The British Museum Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG britishmuseum.org Sutton Hoo and Europe AD 300–1100 A display of the British Museum’s unparalleled early medieval collections which include the famous Sutton Hoo treasure Throughout January and February

The Design Museum 28 Shad Thames SE1 2YD designmuseum.org Extraordinary Stories About Ordinary Things

There's no room to list more here, but use our unique local searchable What’s On calendar on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Discover key designs that have shaped the modern world and be inspired by this fascinating exhibition of memorable objects from the Design Museum Collection. £11.85/under 12s free Throughout January and February

The Florence Nightingale Museum 2 Lambeth Palace Road SE1 7EW www.florence-nightingale.co.uk Miss Nightingale Said An illustrated talk given by one of the museum’s curatorial team examining the incredible life and achievements of Florence Nightingale. 3.30pm, £5.80/£4.80 Every Wednesday in January and February

The Geffrye Museum 136 Kingsland Road E2 8EA www.geffrye-museum.org.uk Farewell to Christmas Join in with the Geffrye's traditional burning of the holly and the ivy, with carol singing, stories about Epiphany and a taste of mulled wine and Twelfth Night cake. This event takes place in the garden, so wrap up warmly!

3.30-5pm 6 January

The Horniman Museum 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Family Workshops Touch real museum objects in these popular themed sessions for families, or join in with an art workshop, with a different theme each week. £3 Every Saturday in January and February The Big Garden Birdwatch Join in activities all about garden birds including helping count different birds in the Horniman’s Gardens, finding out about birdsong, and making bird puppets.

11am-3.30pm 24 January FREE Half Term at the Horniman A week of activities and events to welcome in Chinese New Year and the Year of the Sheep 16-20 February

Imperial War Museum Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk Horrible Histories® - Spies Uncover the deadly world of spies at this major new interactive

exhibition for families. Horrible Histories®: Spies brings the horrible history of Second World War spies and their secret schemes to life, based on Terry Deary’s book from the bestselling Horrible Histories series. £6.20/£3.30 Throughout January and February Introduction to the Holocaust A free discussion and replica object handling session, designed as useful starting point for families who wish to learn about the Holocaust. Suitable for children aged 11 and above but please note that the Holocaust Exhibition is recommended for children aged 14 and above. 11.30am and 2.30pm 24-25 January FREE

The London Transport Museum Covent Garden WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Goodbye Piccadilly – from Home Front to Western Front Exhibition commemorating the centenary of the start of the First World War, revealing the untold story of London’s Home Front Throughout January and February

The Museum Of London London Wall EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sherlock Holmes – The Man Who Never Lived and Will Never Die An exciting new exhibition delving into the mind of the world’s most famous fictional detective, Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes To 12 April The London 2012 Cauldron A new home for the London 2012 Cauldron tells the story of this iconic symbol of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The exhibition celebrates Thomas Heatherwick’s cutting edge design and the unforgettable moment it was revealed to the world during the Olympic opening ceremony Throughout January and February FREE Museum Explored Join one of the Museum's hosts and explore the galleries through fun, hands-on activities. 11am & 2pm Every Sunday in January and February FREE

What’s On

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What’s On

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The National Gallery Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN nationalgallery.org.uk Family Sundays Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm, age 5-11 Every Sunday in January and February FREE

National Maritime Museum Park Row, Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Nelson, Navy, Nation A major new permanent gallery looks at how the Royal Navy shaped individual lives and the course of British history over the tumultuous 18th century FREE Guiding Lights: 500 Years of Trinity House and Safety at Sea Five hundred years ago, a fraternity of London mariners was given a charter

by Henry VIII and became the Corporation of Trinity House, with instructions to improve the safety of navigation on the Thames FREE

National Portrait Gallery WC2H 0HE www.npg.org.uk/whatson.php Half Term Activities Friendship activities inspired

by Sargent: Portraits of Artists and Friends. During the week there will be a range of ticketed and drop-in activities for ages 5+, 11am-4pm 16-20 February FREE

Cromwell Road SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Wildlife Photographer of the Year Combining the extraordinary work of talented professionals and gifted amateur photographers from around the globe to showcase the beauty, magnificence and diversity of life on our planet. From £5 Throughout January and February Lates with MasterCard Visit the Museum after hours and experience London’s most unique Friday night out. 6-10.30pm 30 January and 27 February

engineers use every day. Ages 11+ Throughout January and February FREE Cosmonauts: Birth of the Space Age For the first time in the UK, the remarkable story of Russian scientific and technological ingenuity that kick-started the space age will be explored in a landmark new exhibition at the Science Museum.

Cosmonauts will bring to life the stories of Russian space endeavour to dramatic life through a unique collection of space artifacts. Age 8+, charges apply Throughout January and February

Churchill’s Scientists

Science Museum Exhibition Road, South Kensington SW7 2DD sciencemuseum.org.uk Engineer Your Future Think like an engineer and have your preconceptions challenged in this free interactive exhibition. Engineer Your Future will put visitors’ problem solving skills to the test, exploring engineering through interactive games and digital experiences that bring to life the skills

Jan/Feb 2015

Unicorn Theatre The Polar Bears Go Wild

®

The exhibition will look at the triumphs in science during Winston Churchill's period in power, both in war and in the post-war era. It coincides with the 50th anniversary of Winston Churchill’s death in January 2015. Suitable for 13+ From 23 January Exhibition: Cravings: Can your food control you? From the flavours you learned to love in the womb to the very next bite you take, your

appetite has been shaped by food. Through personal stories, fascinating objects and cuttingedge science and technology, Cravings explores the power food has over our bodies, brains and behaviour From 12 February

V&A Museum of Childhood Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Small Stories: At Home in a Dolls' House Revealing the fascinating stories behind some of the UK's best-loved dolls' houses, taking you on a journey through the history of the home, everyday lives and changing family relationships Throughout January and February FREE Haunted Doll's House Night Tour Explore the Museum of Childhood in the dark, including a torch-lit tour of Small Stories: At Home in a Dolls' House. Enjoy a screening of a film adaptation of M R James's chilling classic The Haunted Dolls House.

6.30-10pm, £5 15 January

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Natural History Museum

There's no room to list more here, but use our unique local searchable What’s On calendar on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Carmela Guida’s School of Ballet The Dance Lab 63 Upper Richmond Rd, East Putney, SW15 2RD Christ the King Roman Catholic Parish 9 Cresent Gardens, Wimbledon Park, SW19 8AJ

To arrange a free trial class visit:

www.carmelaguidaballet.co.uk

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What’s On

February Half Term Activities Includes Chinese New Year, Miniature Bookmaking and Miniature Wallpaper. Ages vary 16-20 February

The Victoria And Albert Museum

12.30pm and 2-4pm, admission fees apply 10-11 January Tattoo T-Shirts Impress your friends and family by designing your very own t-shirt, inspired by traditional Navy tattoos. 11am–12.30pm and 2–4pm 14-20 February

SW7 2RL vam.ac.uk Wedding Dresses 1775–2014 Trace the eternal fashion of the wedding dress and discover the most romantic, glamorous and iconic dresses from the last 200 years. This magical exhibition highlights exceptional craftsmanship and brings together couture and designer-made wedding garments from key fashion designers including Charles James, Vivienne Westwood and Vera Wang. From £8 To 15 March

Wandsworth Museum 38 West Hill SW18 1RX www.wandsworthmuseum.co.uk Ready, Steady, Play! Led playtime and songs for tots and their parents or carers. For children aged 6 months–3 years. £3 per child, book in advance to guarantee a place. 10.15–11am Every Thursday in January and February HMS Belfast

Days Out

Kensington Palace

See more events in our online What’s On calendar

Brixton Windmill Windmill Gardens, End of Blenheim Gardens SW2 5EU www.brixtonwindmill.org Windmill Tours Explore the windmill with one of their tour guides. Visit the 'two mills in one' and hear the intriguing story of the Ashby family. You will see the original wind-powered machinery and find out how it was once used to make stone ground flour. Booking required Every weekend in January and February

Kensington Gardens W8 4PX www.hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace Glorious George ll Take your place among the glitterati of court, where they play host to some of the greatest minds in the kingdom. Become a courtier for the day, indulge in gossip and gambling, listen to beautiful Georgian music, and even help Queen Caroline get dressed in the morning!

The Chelsea Physic Garden 66 Royal Hospital Road SW3 4HS chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Snowdrop Days Get up close and personal with these outstanding harbingers of spring. This year enjoy the unique opportunity to view the plants at eye level with a range of quirky new displays allowing you to appreciate their minutiae and subtle complexities. £9.90/£6.60 31 January – 8 February

Holland Park Ecology Centre Holland Park W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecology Half Term Holiday Activities Fun packed programme for 5-10 year olds, with sessions on birds, orienteering, spring, creepy crawlies, animal tracks and plants. 10am-12noon and 2-4pm, £4.20 (RBKC residents) or £5.40 (non-residents) 16-20 February

HMS Belfast The Queen's Walk SE1 2JH www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast Cracking Codes Can you decipher secret messages? Come and join in this family activity; intercept messages, map hazards on a sea chart and even make up your own secret code. 11am-

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Museum of Childhood

The London Dungeon County Hall SE1 7PB www.thedungeons.com/london Dig up the Dead Grave robbing is rife at The London Dungeon this February when the live action attraction will be over-run by The London Burkers, a criminal gang of grave robbers famous for making a less-thanhonest living digging up the dead. £20.05/£25.95 15-22 February

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s On

Please send info for consideration to: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Horniman Museum

The Tower Of London Tower Hill EC3N 4AB www.hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon Fortress Tower Welcome to the greatest fortress in the land. Knights and squires prepare to do battle for the Kingdom of France. Admission fees apply Throughout January and February

The London Wetlands Centre Queen Elizabeth, Barnes SW13 9WT www.wwt.org.uk Family Weekend Activities Hear tales of wetland creatures and their amazing adventures, then come on a bird watching walk and see the colourful ducks that live here in the winter. Admission fees apply Every Saturday and Sunday from 10 January

Every Sunday in January and February. Family Sundays

French Coffee Morning Contact Teresa at info@leclubtricolore or 020 7924 4649 / 07889 967003 Get together ‘between the Commons’ for coffee and to speak French for an hour. Lively discussions on a topic (articles are distributed in advance) and a great opportunity to practise your French Every Wednesday morning in January and February

NCT Wimbledon & Wandsworth www.nct.org.uk/branches/Wimbledon Coffee, Me and Baby. Every other Wednesday in January and February, 2pm onwards at The Old Frizzle, Wimbledon. Come along and meet new and expectant mums in the area over a relaxing cup of coffee Breastfeeding Drop-in. Every Thursday in January and February, 10am–12pm, Gooseberry Bush Café (upstairs studio), Wimbledon SW19 1LT

Dulwich Picture Gallery

See more events in our online What’s On calendar

Royal Opera House WC2E 9DD www.roh.org.uk A regular event for families to come and explore the Royal Opera House, its artists and the world of opera and ballet.

Packed full of creative and practical activities for all the family including informal performances from Royal Ballet dancers, plus interactive singing and dance activities.

12–4pm, £5 adults, £3 children

Jan/Feb 2015

®

SE21 7AD dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk Enjoy being creative together in these drop-in Artplay sessions, making everything from bunting to block prints.

2.10pm and 3.10pm, no booking necessary, free for families with a Gallery ticket or £3 per child First and last Sunday of January and February.

Family Sundays

Putney Embankment Art and Craft Market The Embankment, Putney (Between the Thai Square Restaurant and Thames Place) www.facebook.com/artonputneyembankment An exciting market showcasing a range of arts and crafts such as paintings, sculpture and photography, wood carvings and furniture from established and emerging artists. 10am–4pm 4 January and 1 February

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Diary dates & events

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There's no room to list more here, but use our unique local searchable What’s On calendar on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

from p.45

What’s On Somerset House Strand WC2R 1LA www.somersethouse.org.uk Part-Time Punks 10 January Taking inspiration from their exhibition Chris Stein/Negative: Me, Blondie and The Advent of Punk, recall the era and craft neon pop-ups of our names and favourite lyrics to a soundtrack of the times. 123pm, ages 6-12, free drop-in workshop.

Meet at the Information Desk, Seamen’s Hall

First Aid for Life Balham and Westminster firstaidforlife.org.uk

return with Major Damage and Matilda robots battling it out in both friendly and tournament matches during the weekend. £3-£11 16-18 January

Parenting workshops 23 January, SW11.

Learn to get your baby sleep through the night.

24 January, SW11.

Daddy-to-be workshop.

Also weaning, potty training, behaviour workshops and home visits.

By The Parent and Baby Coach. www.theparentandbabycoach.com 0330 6600204.

Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses The Emergency Course A 3-hour course covering care of the unconscious baby and child as well as most commonly occurring injuries and illnesses such as choking, bleeding, breaks, bleeds, burns, head injury and febrile convulsions.

9.30am-12.30pm, £60/£65 10, 16 and 28 January, 13, 21 and 26 February.

A 6-hour Paediatric First Aid course covering the full Ofsted syllabus and suitable for parents and childcarers 7, 17, 23 and 30 January, 7, 12, 27 and 28 February and 4 March

Skate at Somerset House WC2R 1LA, www.somersethouse.org.uk/ice-rink Glide into a Winter Wonderland at Somerset House with a twinkling 40ft Christmas Tree, a rink-side Skate Lounge, Christmas Arcade and Fortnum’s Lodge To 11 January

NCT Putney & Fulham nctpregnancyandbabycare.com Fulham FC coffee morning 10am–12pm at Cafe at the Cottage, Fulham Football Club, Stevenage Road SW6 6HH. Join Debs if you’re new to the area, starting to get out with your baby or just need an excuse for a well-deserved cup of coffee 14 and 28 January, 11 and 25 February.

Putney new mums' group 10.30am–12.30pm at Tried and True Cafe, Upper Richmond Road SW15 6SP. Contact sophie.bartholomew@gmail.com 14 and 28 January, 11 and 25 February.

The London Model Engineering Exhibition Alexandra Palace N22 7AY londonmodelengineering.co.uk A fantastic day out for the whole family, packed with hundreds of displays from gas-turbine locomotives, collections of model ships and aeroplanes plus futuristic rockets, robots and much more! Children (of all ages) will marvel at the moving Meccano displays, such as the Roller Coaster which pulls a car up to the top of the lift and then descends through gravity.

TV show ‘Robot Wars’ makes a welcome

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Dulwich Road SE24 0PA brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk Junior Dig. Teach your children some gardening know-how with this family volunteering session. This month they’ll also be participating in the RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch. Dress appropriately and get stuck in. 10.30am-12.30pm 25 January Nature Explorers. A monthly nature club designed for ages 7-12 years and their carers. New members always welcome.

Requested donation £2 per child. 10am12noon 7 February Valentine’s Day activities. A drop-in family workshop to make a range of Valentine’s inspired crafts. Free. Donations welcome. 10.30am-12.30pm 14 February Half term workshops. Includes Fantastic Mr Fox, Amerindian Crafts, Japanese Gardens and Chinese New Year. Times and dates very. To book for the half-term workshops, please contact Beth on education@brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk or call 07427 685714 16-22 February

Kensington Mums and Bumps coffee morning Kensington Roof Gardens January 26, 2015 @ 10:00 am - 11:30 am | £10 Coffee morning at the amazing Roof Gardens, Babylon. Meet local Mums and make friends. Booking is essential, book early to avoid disappointment. Price £10 per mum and baby. Includes teas and coffees, with pastries, while overlooking London’s beautiful skyline. All mums who book must be registered with Kensington mums and have liked their Facebook page.

Book online www.kensingtonmums.co.uk

London Lawyers’ Chamber Orchestra NW3 1NG. In Time and Peter and the Wolf Sunday 1st February 3pm Rosslyn Hill Chapel tickets £5 available on the door.

Fulham Palace SW6 6EA fulhampalace.org The Palace Explorers. For children aged 2-4. £3 per child, which includes a

drink and healthy snack. Booking essential, 10.30am-12pm Every Monday in January and February Museum Drop-In: Romans. Try on period costume, handle artefacts and learn about the history of the Palace. All ages welcome. Free, no booking necessary, 2pm-3.30pm 8 February Bedazzled Palace Banquet. Join Bedazzled Events for a jam-packed workshop filled with themed games, activities, mini challenges and lots of fun.

Booking essential, 10am-12pm (3-5 year olds) and 12.30pm-2.30pm (6-8 year olds), £14 per child/£12 siblings 17 February Fulham Palace Fun Day. A day of free family fun including crafts, drama and dressing up. Free, no booking necessary, 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm 18 February

Hogwarts in the Snow Warner Brothers Studio, Aerodrome Way, Leavesden WD25 7LS wbstudiotour.co.uk Don’t miss the magic of Harry Potter in the snow! The sets have undergone a festive makeover, with the Great Hall lined with Christmas trees topped by ‘malevolent fairies’, and its tables bearing giant plum puddings and crackers in house colours To 1 February

Bake for Bliss www.bliss.org.uk Support special care baby charity Bliss by taking part in Bake for Bliss. Taking place across the country, you can bake a cake and sell it to friends, or host a bake sale for the whole street. The money raised will go towards supporting families of premature and special care babies 12-15 February

Et Patati Patata Fun French February half term day camp. www.etpatatipatata.com A French immersion programme led by an experienced, native French primary teacher (école française) based on a wide range of fun and creative activities, 100% in French. French drama, French cooking, fancy dress, finger painting, crepes and masks making for Mardi Gras! Les enfants vont bien s’amuser!

16th-20th Feb 2015 Monday–Friday 9am-3pm, for 3-11 year olds.

Arcadia Chesnut Grove School, Boundaries Road SW12 8JZ www.southsideplayers.org.uk Drama on your doorstep! The Southside Players, Balham’s award-winning theatre group, bring chaos and disorder to Balham

Peter and the Wolf All Saints Church, Bishop's Avenue SW6 3LA www.allsaints-fulham.org.uk Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf, performed by the inspirational orchestra Brillig Ensemble. Perfect for all the family.

Doors open 6.45pm, music 7.15pm.

Free entry 6 February

Little Folk with Albo Concerts Colour House Theatre, Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way SW19 2RD www.littlefolkwithalbo.com / www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Recommended for children from babies to 5 years, tickets £5, call 020 8542 5511 or book online 7 February

Imagine Children's Festival

in Tom Stoppard's ‘richest and most ravishing comedy’ Arcadia. £10/£7.50, performances 7.30 pm Wednesday-Friday, Saturday at 5pm. Box office 07914 657524 or book online 18-21 February

Funky Dance workshop

Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk The kids are in charge at the Southbank Centre this February as the two-week children's festival returns. Enjoy theatre, dance, music, film and comedy plus readings from some of your favourite authors. Don’t miss The Big Sleepover where you can stay overnight in the Royal Festival Hall (February 16) 9-22 February

First of ten workshops around London to celebrate a decade of Funky Moves Info@funkymovesdance.com 07810 431101 www.funkymovesdance.com Wimbledon 7th March. Funky street dance style taught by great industry professionals in a fun and friendly structured environment. Saturdays 2:305pm, 5-12yrs.

The Telegraph Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show

Old Truman Brewery, Brick Lane E1 6QL www.trumanbrewery.com Gawp at artworks made entirely of Lego.

Includes large-scale recreations of famous artworks such as Da Vinci's Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo as well as many original pieces including a six-metre long T-Rex skeleton constructed from over 80,000 bricks. Then head to the Interactive Zone to build your own mini masterpiece. £8£16.50 To 12 April

ExCel Centre, 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock E16 1XL www.telegraphoutdoorshow.co.uk A must for all bike, sport, travel and outside enthusiasts with plenty of information, shopping opportunities, guest speakers and family-friendly have-a-go experiences 12-15 February

The Art of the Brick

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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PARTIES

MUSIC

TUITION

Classified Public Speaking

Speech & Drama, Confidence Building Wimbledon/Vauxhall.

Face Painting & Balloon Modelling

Clare Price. LGSM, LLAM

Contact Susie 07814 925462 www.magicaldesigns.co.uk

(020) 7735 3156 www.speechspecialists.co.uk

Ly d i e

PIANO TUITION

C h i l d r e n’ s Pa r t i e s

Friendly, experienced and qualified teacher of children 6+ and adults.

The Unique Birthday Experience The theatre of Peter Pan, Superheroes, Fairies,Arabian Nights and more...

In your home! Unforgettable Bilingual English/French www.lydieparties.com

Mark Lester MA, CT ABRSM

0207 622 2540

LEARN ENGLISH! •Do you or your au pair need to improve your English?

•Highly qualified teacher offers morning classes. •Very reasonable rates!

Masha 07586 259 904 mashanovak@hotmail.com

Home visits possible.

020 8870 7830 www.marklester.biz

SERVICES

CHILDCARE

Reliable Handyman

Silly Millie the Clown

• Garden maintenance and building work (fences, patios, sheds, etc..)

• Jobs around the house (carpentry, painting, fitting furniture, etc…)

• Upcycling furniture and Shabby Chic items available £20/hour.

Call Brian: 0774 513 6424

Parties for 3-9 year olds Funny Magic Show, Puppet’s, Party Games, Silly Songs and Balloon Animals Call 020 7823 8329 - 07939 239397 www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk

HEALTH

Maths, English, Exam Preparation Vicky Barnett BA, MSc, PGCE 020 8876 2553 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

PAINTING & DECORATING Interior / Exterior Experienced, Reliable, Clean Fully Guaranteed / Insured FREE ADVICE & QUOTE John:- James & Lamont

020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695

Clown Pirate Jester Wizard

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07808 732 390 Astronaut, Magician, Explorer

THEO THE MAGICIAN “Voted one of the UK’s Favourite The Magic Circle, Equity & CRB Fun Magic for Children & Adults

07711 724129 www.magictheo.com

Jan/Feb 2015

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