Families London SW Issue 250 Oct 2015

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SouthWest OCTOBER 2015

! e u s s i y r a s r e v i n n a h t 25 SPECIAL Education Feature Half term activities Hallowe’en events Local Fireworks

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

Find us online: FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

SONG ACADEMY W, SW, C The leading Singing & Songwriting club for 8-16 year olds Hammersmith, Chelsea, Fulham, Notting Hill & Chiswick

Plus holiday workshops, birthday parties & Young Songwriter competition.

Perfect outlet for creative & musical kids, and we develop vital skills for achieving at school & beyond.

Contact@songacademy.co.uk 07710 023743

www.songacademy.co.uk

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FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

October 2015

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More authors for STREAM 2015 STREAM2015 announces more authors joining its stellar line-up.

Author/illustrator and Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell will open the Festival. He is accompanied by Michael Rosen, author, poet, performer and broadcaster. Collaborating for the first time on A Great Big Cuddle, these masters of words and pictures will delight the audience, with in this interactive, entertaining and lively family event.

Join a fabulous Story Shop with publisher Barry Cunningham – the man who made publishing history when he signed J K Rowling with Harry Potter – together with authors from his own publishing company, Chicken House. Audience members bring their own ideas and may have a chance of seeing them developed in to a (very !) short story.

There will be workshops with author/illustrators from Phoenix Comics when you create your own comic characters and comic strips, or have fun with Roald Dahl Funny Prize winner Jim Smith, writer of the hilarious Barry Loser series. For younger readers there is author/illustrator Petr Horacek with new book Blue Penguin and author Elli Woollard with the delightful Giant of Jum,as well as drop-in sessions with storytelling and rhyme. In a workshop for 7-12 year olds, Costanominated local author Ross Montgomery will be reading from his most recent book The Tornado Chasers and showing how to use one’s own fears to make up skin-crawling, pant-wetting horror stories!

STREAM 2015 is free and open to all but it is advisable to book. It is a fantastic day for all the family, packed full of exciting sessions with authors, activities and events, workshops, panels, competitions and book signings. For details of all authors, events and bookings go to www.STREAM2015.co.uk. STREAM2015, November 7 10 am – 5 pm at Streatham & Clapham High School, 42 Abbotswood Road, SW16 1AW.

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FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Contents ®

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October 2015

04-06

• Local news • Clubs and classes

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SouthWest OCTOBER 2015

News & information

10-11

Celebrating 250th • Why is FSW so popular?

• Reader give aways — WIN!

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y issue! r a s r e v i 25th ann

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

Deadline: Early Occtober 2015 • 'Families SW' London, established in 1990, is part of

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Families Magazines Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of 'Families SW' are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher.

There are nearly 40 UK local editions with a print run of more than 700,000 copies in all, in which you can advertise too.

Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd, Pewsey, Wiltshire.

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

Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources — meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced.

Inks are soya-based, which can be re-cycled.

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October 2015

04-06

Local school news How difficult is 11+ maths?

Helping your child with maths Dyslexia the hidden disability SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Which school next?

Tutoring bright children

Teaching children to love reading

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Jamie’s war on sugar

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Working Mums

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Health & wellbeing • Kinesiology • Stress and anxiety

32-33

Helicopter parenting or under-parenting?

34-36

Half-term activities

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Hallowe’en

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Local Fireworks

41-46

What’s On

12-26

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• Diary dates & events • Theatre • Museums & Galleries • Days out

ADVERTISE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE: Contact us on 020 8696 9680 Find us on Facebook & Twitter FamiliesSW

Education

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Classified 5

News

Royal Academy of Dance moves The prestigious and historic Royal Academy of Dance will move to a new purpose built site in Battersea after council planners approved plans for the redevelopment of the Homebase warehouse store in York Road, SW11. The academy, founded in 1920, has been based in the borough since 1972 but its current home in Battersea is cramped and no longer suitable to provide top quality dance tuition. The new academy will offer bigger, brighter and better dance studios and performance space, with modernised changing rooms and office space, a library for RAD’s archives and two cafés. ‘I am delighted that the Royal Academy of Dance has found a new home and is staying in the borough,’ said Wandsworth’s planning chairman Cllr Sarah McDermott. ‘Battersea has a long standing connection with RAD and I’m pleased this association will continue. This is a good scheme for this underused retail site and it makes a good contribution to the area’s housing needs.’ : rad.org.uk

Compiled by Joanna Parry

Family favourite honoured The wonderful Geffrye Museum of the Home has been shortlisted for the Telegraph Family Friendly Museum Award 2015, and is the only London museum to be shortlisted. ‘They have not only welcomed families but gone to extraordinary steps to make their visit live on long after they have left the museum,’ said Dea Birkett, Director of Kids in Museums. ‘Excellent museums can make a huge difference to families, offering opportunities amongst real things that are unique and special.’ The Geffrye hosts a vibrant, free programme for families throughout the year, including school holiday activities, creative workshops and gardens trails. The Geffrye Museum of the Home, 136 Kingsland Road E2 8EA, ( 7739 9893, : geffrye-museum.org.uk, : kidsinmuseums.org.uk/award, : telegraph.co.uk/museumawards.

New 20mph zones

Residents tackle silent killer Nearly one in seven deaths in Hammersmith & Fulham are caused by nitrogen dioxide air pollution every year – the eighth highest level in London – with heavy traffic a major cause of air pollution, and the problem is only expected to get worse. Now Hammersmith & Fulham Council is creating a resident-led commission to tackle the deadly problem head on. The new Air Quality Commission means that local residents and the council will work together to help combat this silent killer – estimated to cause 203 deaths each year in the borough. ‘We are determined to cut air pollution in Hammersmith & Fulham,’ said H&F Council Leader Stephen Cowan. ‘H&F is a very dense and busy borough with a great deal of traffic generating pollution, and increasingly so. It’s important we understand what this pollution is, where it’s coming from and what we can do about it.’ Find out about air quality near your home, work or children’s school at : londonair.org.uk Discover walking routes in the borough away from the busiest, most polluted roads at : walkit.com/cities/london Remember sitting in a car exposes you and your child to 15 times as much air pollution as walking. It’s a no brainer: walking or cycling is the answer to less pollution in our cities.

Late night fun at Tooting Market

Structured play sessions Little Learners is an OFSTED registered morning nursery offering children 15-30 months the opportunity to enjoy regular structured play whilst developing essential pre school skills. Children learn the principles of sharing and turn taking whilst developing skills in problem solving and negotiation. Each session is based on a weekly theme with their team places great emphasis on playing and interacting with their peers. They are passionate about the importance of play and work hard to foster friendships, stimulate minds and boost confidence. From November they will be offering afternoon crèche sessions for children aged from 21/2 from 1-3pm. St Michael’s Church, Cobham Close, SW11 6SP, open from Monday–Friday 9.30-12 term time. : claphamlearners.com

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Tooting Market is now open late on Friday and Saturday evenings, with loads of bars, restaurants and stalls.

Shop ‘till you drop, and then relax with a meal at the market in South London’s largest indoor market, with frequent live music, craft workshops and performances. ‘Tooting Market is already a creative hub and a great attraction in the heart of the town centre, said the council’s business spokesman Cllr Guy Senior. ‘Late night opening will now add a whole new dimension. Tooting’s always been a great place to eat, enjoy a drink and browse some unique shops, but now it’s so much more than that. It’s a warm, close-knit community with an atmosphere all of its own.’ Follow @TootingMarket on twitter for regular updates.

Councillors have given their backing to the introduction of 11 new 20mph zones in residential areas across Wandsworth. After consulting residents, the neighbourhoods that will now benefit from new lower speed limits include Nightingale ward, Thamesfield ward in Putney, the ‘Toastrack’ area of Wandsworth Common and the Southfields ‘Grid’ area.

Highways engineers have already implemented lower speed limits across large parts of Balham and Tooting, with around 12,000 households in Furzedown and Bedford now benefitting from speed restrictions that came into effect in April.

20mph zoning is also coming to Lambeth. A great idea, we think. Now we want more cycling lanes for families to cycle to school!

Safer cycling Councillors in Wandsworth have given their seal of approval to a new strategy to make cycling in the borough safer and more popular. Building on existing programmes, the plans are designed to make Wandsworth a part of London where people increasingly choose to cycle and where cycling is championed as a great way to travel.

The targets include developing a programme of cycle route improvements, implementing Quietways, plus cycle parking and cycle training.

For more information visit : wandsworth.gov.uk Hooray!

Feel physically and mentally exhausted?

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 is packed with the unique Ginseng G115, vitamins and minerals to help relieve temporary periods of fatigue and restore vitality. It is clinically proven to enhance mental and physical performance. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials. Try Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, and never give up. (Licensed medicine) For temporary periods of fatigue. Always read the label.

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Are you wild about hedgehogs?

Kids rule the roost It’s Kids in Museums Takeover Day again! This 20 November children across the capital will take over museums, archives, galleries, historic sites and arts organisations, doing the jobs grown-ups usually do. ‘Takeover Day is the day that kids take over our amazing galleries and museums, and run them for themselves,’ said Kids in Museums Patron, bestselling children’s author Damian Dibben.

‘Everything I feel passionate about – art, science, music, the great endeavours of humankind – began with a trip to a museum or gallery when I was young.’ As part of Kids in Museums Takeover Day, many museums are running special workshops, events and activities – find out what’s going on near you at : kidsinmuseums.org.uk/takeoverday

A BIG thank you to our advertisers who have trusted our pages to promote their goods and services.

A BIG thank you to our beloved readers for picking up the magazine and for telling our advertisers where you saw them: that makes a HUGE difference.

A HEARTFELT thank 1 99 0-2 0 1 5 you to the whole team, past and present, for distributing, designing, looking after the website, social media, marketing and of course writing for the magazine. We are hugely proud to have you on our team.

James and Pascale Gravell, Publisher and Editor

Holiday homes in Europe With over 40 years’ experience NOVASOL, part of Wyndham Worldwide, has more than 40,000 holiday homes in 29 European countries in Northern, Central and Southern Europe across destinations like Croatia, France, Spain, Italy and Denmark. Like the NOVASOL UK Facebook page, subscribe to their newsletter and be inspired by their 2016 brochure for your next holiday! Have a look at their website and to look at their cottages, farmhouses, apartments and villas with pools all over Europe! First come first served! : novasol.co.uk 0845 680 5856

Abracadabra!

Could your child be the next David Blaine? Or the new Dynamo? Local magician Richard Pinner, Vice President of The Magic Circle, has launched his new Magic Workshops across SW London as a way of introducing youngsters to the world of magic. You can even throw a magical party for your little one and they can take the magic home with them! ( 7352 3524 : magicandlaughter.co.uk

Try this

Read this

Did you know?

Turn into an organic family

I See Me awardwinning books Ages 0-8, from £20, : iseeme.com Unique personalised gifts to treasure for a lifetime. Each book tells a different story in which the child is the star, helping them to build their confidence while engaging in learning and building vocabulary skills.

Vitamin D is free

Think buying organic is too expensive? Budget organic shopping is possible if you prioritise.

Slowly turn over store-cupboard staples to organic, reduce your costly meat eating, prioritise perishables with low ‘plate-pesticide’ count. Check the Pesticide Action Network and substitute the worst offenders for organic.

Look out for local food schemes and action groups. One step at a time is the key.

October 2015

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Here is to the next 25 years!

Become a foster carer The start of the year is the most popular month for foster carer applications, so why not make 2015 the year you join them? New research highlights that one child is taken into care every 15 minutes in England, and independent fostering agency Fostering Solutions is encouraging people across the UK, and especially in Greater London, to make a positive change in 2015 and become a foster carer. They are launching the Foster15 campaign specifically to highlight the shortfall. ‘The shortfall in foster carers is only set to increase,’ said Gareth Walton of Fostering Solutions, ‘and Greater London alone has over 15,000 children who desperately need a safe, nurturing and stable home. Becoming a foster carer is one of the most rewarding steps you can take – these children are likely to have had a challenging start to their lives and you can be the person who makes the priceless difference to their life by offering them a home and care.’ If you would like to find out more about being a foster carer with Fostering Solutions call ( 0800 160 1605 or go to : fosteringsolutions.com

Unbelievable but true: Families is 25 years old!

Picture credit - Ali Taylor

In Wild About Gardens Week during halfterm young gardeners across London, are encouraged to unite to save the nations hedgehogs. This year Wild About Gardens Week, 26 October – 1 November, teams up with Hedgehog Street to highlight how you can help our hedgehogs, a much-loved creature that is declining in Britain. Wild About Gardens Week is packed with events, competitions and opportunities to get stuck in. Create a hedgehog hole in your fence, design the best hedgehog home or take part in hedgehogthemed events. ‘Seeing hedgehogs in our garden when I was a child was a magical experience,’ said Twiggy, Patron of the British Hedgehog Preservation Society. ‘Now we all need to help these special mammals – and there’s so much that gardeners can do to reverse their decline. You can leave wild nesting and hibernation areas, ditch the slug pellets and check that bonfire before striking the match! All so easy to do.’ : wildaboutgardensweek.org.uk, : hedgehogstreet.org

Rickets is back as children are plastered in sun cream and don’t go out enough. We only need around 10-15 minutes of exposure to the sun to absorb our daily levels. It’s essential to maintain calcium levels and build strong bones and teeth in adults, children and unborn babies. That’s why we all need to get outdoors, it’s not just for the fresh air!

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

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Clubs and Classes Calling all drama queens This autumn the Lyric Theatre Hammersmith is running its first ever term of classes and activities for young people. Choose from theatre, dance, music, film, TV and digital in this huge range of workshops for all young people aged 2 to 25. Learn how to Hip-Hop, create a game in their free Code Club, join a rhythmic toddler and parent world music session, make a film in a day or learn behind-thescenes skills in their new Production Team course. No class is more £10 per session and bursary places are available. : lyric.co.uk

Young film buffs Don’t miss the new Kids’ Kino Club at Regent Street Cinema this autumn. The screenings are especially for children at 10.30am every Saturday morning, for only £1.75. Films this October include The Box Trolls, Belle and Sebastian, Secret of the Kells, Song of the Sea and a Halloween special, The Corpse Bride. Regent Street Cinema, 309 Regent Street W1B 2UW, ( 7911 5050, : regentstreetcinema.com

Tumble Tots and Gymbabes For the first two weeks of October Tumble Tots is offering £10 off a block of classes booked.

Offer is for new members only.

Designed to develop children's physical skills of agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing along with songs and rhymes. The programme is structured to develop children's positive personality traits including confidence and self-esteem. Each 45-minute weekly session combines fun, excitement and challenge in a safe and caring environment. All sessions use unique equipment and are run by staff specially trained to get the best out of your child. It is structured according to the different ages and stages of a child's development.

Contact Julia.forrest@tumbletots.com or call on ( 8464 4433 or : tumbletots.com

Rock n roll this autumn…

Et Patati opens in Southfields

…with the new range of after school clubs from Song Academy. Learn from experts and perform with a professional band in these unique classes – a real chance to give your child a competitive edge and hone their creative talents while building confidence and a host of other vital life skills. Classes take place in Chelsea, Chiswick, Fulham, Hammersmith and Notting Hill for ages 8-11 and 12-16. Book your trial session now on ( 07710 023743, : songacademy.co.uk

Congratulations to Et Patati Patata,100% French club, 100% French fun, which has just opened in Southfields. After the success of Balham and Fulham, the Award winning fun French lessons for 1-6 years old are coming to Southfields. A French immersion programme led by an experienced, native French speaking primary teacher. After school lessons.

Check out their Saturday morning French school in West Kensington for 2-13yrs. ( 07966 893674 : etpatatipatata.com

Blue Wave best business in SW19 finalist Well done to Blue Wave Swim school who are one of the finalists for the ‘Best Business in SW19’ category of Merton Best Business Awards 2015 (organised by Merton chamber of commerce). Blue Wave has shown the judges how progressively it operates, how much it cares about the quality of its swimming lessons and its clients.

Five years on since it started, its learn-to-swim programme has evolved and keeps getting better. Weekday classes in SW17 and Saturday lessons in SW19 are popular with local families and parents further afield.

Children can join Blue Wave at any stage of their learn-to-swim journey, from 4 months upwards. No age limits and catering for all swimming abilities, parents can choose and stay at this school to have a continuous and progressive swimming journey for their children. ( 8090 1415 : bluewaveswim.co.uk

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New fencing taster classes Fencing is exciting, fun and improves children’s co-ordination, self-respect, self- motivation and their overall fitness. To make fencing more accessible The Fencing School has just launched a new after school drop-in taster classes at the Ethelburga Community Centre in Battersea. The classes are aimed at children aged 7-12 years old who have not fenced before and cost £8 a week which includes the use of the equipment (concessionary rates are available).

Class on Mondays and Wednesdays (during term times) from 4.30 – 5.30pm. ( 07768 698 189 contact@thefencingschool.com : thefencingschool.com

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Active music baby and toddler classes Amanda’s Action Club offers fun and energetic music baby and toddler classes at Skylark Café, Wandsworth Common on Monday afternoons, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings from 4 months to 4 years. £10 pay as you go, £9 with a 5 class pass or £7.50 for block bookings of 10. ( 01895 623999 : amandasactionclub.co.uk

New ballet school Danceworks International Ballet Academy launches its first children's ballet school this autumn. After-school and weekend classes for 6-16 year old boys and girls will follow the International Ballet Curriculum©, focusing on the physicality of American training and developing a lifelong love of the arts. The Ballet Academy is set to become London’s newest centre of excellence for young ballet dancers, as well as producing outstanding theatrical productions. Classes from £145 per term, drop in classes available too, and there are a number of scholarships on offer. Classes take place at Danceworks Studios 16 Balderton St, London W1K 6TN, : danceworks.net/ballet-academy

Le Club Tricolore There’s no such thing as being “hopeless at languages!”. So says Teresa Scibor, experienced teacher, author and founder of Le Club Tricolore in 1988, a French language club for children and adults. Her unique method allows children and adults to absorb French naturally and with a good accent. Based between the Commons, Teresa runs weekly immersion French classes for Tots with art and craft plus informal groups for older children.

For adults, there are opportunities to brush up conversational French at the French Coffee Morning or at the French Cocktail Party in the evening. It’s great fun !

For more details about her classes, call Teresa on ( 07889 967003. : leclubtricolore.co.uk

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

October 2015

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New bilingual nursery in Clapham!

L'Ecole du Parc, a French nursery school in Clapham, was founded in 2002 by three Frenchspeaking mothers who dreamt of a caring and nurturing environment where children could learn French by immersion. Many years on, the school has grown to its maximum capacity of 60 children, yet retained its homely feel. L'Ecole du Parc is now able to meet the very high demand from parents who wish their children to be welcomed in a bilingual, similarly friendly environment. L'Ecole du Parc bilingue will open its doors early January 2016, it will welcome up to 45 children from 18 months to 5 years, on a first come first served basis by order of registration.

More information and an online registration form can now be found on their brand new website : ecoleduparc.co.uk or call ( 7326 9642.

Time to visit schools!

Remember to go and visit schools this month, deadline for applications is 31st October. Make sure you use our Open days listings page 20 and do read our tips to make the most of them.

Meanwhile please note the open day for Woodentops nursery, 1 Poynders Road, SW4 8NX, who are also having an Open Day on Saturday 7th November 9.30-11.30am. ( 8675 5033

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 (the only ones in SW12) • Ballet, Football, French 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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This is our...

250th issue...25 amazing years in business!

The lifeline that is “Families SW” The magazine that became an institution and continues as one today…

I always advertise in FSW and it

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By Joanna Moorhead Long before I met Pascale and James Gravell – and I have known them for around 15 years – I knew their magazine. “Families SW” was, and is, an institution, and I discovered it at the precise moment when I was emerging, shell-shocked, into the bright lights and milky mayhem of life with a baby.

She – my eldest child – had been born very prematurely, and the first few months of her life had been spent anxiously sitting by her cot in the hermetically-sealed special care unit at St Thomas’s Hospital. Then, suddenly, I was thrust out into the big world again; only this time I had no job, no friends…and a baby.

really does work!

Emma Hammett, First Aid for Life

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We get it in our school bag “ I love yourandmagazine! it's my treat with a cup of T! ” Andrea, a local mum

Families SW became my lifeline. In those days the paper version was the only version (I still prefer the hard copy version, as I know many others do as well); and I remember devouring the latest issue as I sat breastfeeding Rosie.

Because she’d been born so early I’d never been to an antenatal class, never met another SW mother-to-be – so it was through the pages of the magazine, and especially the what’s on and where to go listings, that I was able to pick up the threads of my new existence, and slowly start to move on as a mother.

It wasn’t just the ads either, absorbing and exciting and opportunity-offering though they were. The features were a godsend too, mostly because they were tackling exactly what I needed to read about, when I needed to read it.

Where to go on holiday? See page 12. What to look for in a nursery? That’s page eight. How to reduce the chances of sibling rivalry, when a second daughter came along? There’s a feature coming up in the next issue…

Entering the digital era with a bang Families SW gave me the local and wider information and features I wanted, when I needed them. Practical, useful and local, it was tailored for me and people like me, parents with small children in one small but wonderful corner of the capital. James and Pascale have built the Families brand over the years by franchising, culminating in 40 local Families magazines across the UK. Having recently sold the franchise business, but not the South West London title which they still run, readers and advertisers can expect some very positive changes to the website and more exciting digital options. I’m pleased to say that our very own SW version will continue to offer all the attractions we love it for, and will only be bigger and better.

So why is Families so popular?

When I eventually met the Gravells – who were fellow parents at our primary school – the secret of what makes Families SW so successful was obvious. Because this isn’t just a business, or a magazine, or a project for the couple: it’s a way of life, and as parents of five they know absolutely what they’re talking about when it comes to raising children. Over the last few years the magazine has got better and better still, with a special commitment to environmental and ethical issues driven by Pascale.

My youngest daughter (I have four) is now 13, so I have to admit I’ve moved on from the target readership. But find me in one of the hospitable cafes of Wandsworth Common or Northcote Road or Balham, where I am often to be found, and the chances are you’ll still see me taking a copy of Families SW from the stack and browsing through the pages. One day, I hope, I’ll be going through the ads again looking for toddler groups and swimming lessons and party entertainers for my grandchildren. Until then, it’s a feast of memories, and I’m as grateful for those as for the experiences the magazine has given me.

See Wimbledon Nanni es bottom right advert ising on our first issue? They still advertise 25 years on!

See their Ad page 30

to believe that we have been advertising in “ Hard Families since the very first issue! Families represents a really good and useful source of information and activities for parents and childcarers alike and long may it continue! Congratulations on your 25th year anniversary.

Renate Jones, Wimbledon Nannies

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magazine is the one that “ Families everyone picks up to read. ” Anna Wakeham, The House Nurseries

“ Mighty oaks from little acorns grow! ”

A very happy birthday from the principal Ms Carlotta O'Sullivan and everyone at Sinclair House School in Fulham. [another advertiser in our first issue. Ed.] From a small publication distributed to just a few in 1990, Families has become a community “bible,” packed with essential local information for parents. It is with great fondness that we look back at our similarly small origins all that time ago as a pre-prep and marvel at the tremendous growth and development of SHS alongside Families over the last 25 years.

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FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Thank you to all our lovely readers and advertisers!

Over £2,000 worth o f prizes!

Here are loads of goodies you can WIN to celebrate our 25th anniversary!

We have 25 fabulous ‘goody bags’ to win worth from £80 to £300 (contents vary and winners will be chosen at random).

To enter go to www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/competitions Terms and condition apply. The competition closes at 9am on 2nd November.

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A family ticket (4 tickets) to Beauty & The Beast, valid from November 28th and runs through January.

6-12yrs. £72

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First Aid for Life 3-hour scheduled Emergency First Aid courses covering adults, babies and children £65

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25x Eddie Catz vouchers for 2 adults and 2 children valid for 6 months from the end of Nov 2015 £19 each

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Rosalena goodie bag: a luxe size sample of face oil, 10% off a full size bottle, and a Rosalena FaceFit treatment voucher.

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25x children’s books from £8.99 to £28.99 each A digital subscription to Families South West to each entrant.

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A goodie bag incl. selection of products from Product of the Year 2015 £150 Irish Fairy Door £20 Hape Aqua Retro Kitchen £69.99 Hape Dumper truck £24.99 Lego Duplo Doc McStuffins Backyard clinics £19.99 Lego Juniors Spider-Man™ Hideout £29.99 Lego Elves Aira's Pegasus Sleigh £34.99 15x JoJo Maman Bebe Folding Buggy bags £15 each 10x Jurassic Park dinosaurs £25 each Bizzy Bitz construction kit 135 pieces £17.99 2x Galt Tricycles £69.99 each

Thank you London Mums Magazine for supporting our 25th Anniversary competition.

Register for FREE at londonmumsmagazine.com and receive a free gift bag which you can collect from Eddie Catz Putney and Wimbledon.

October 2015

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Education

Local Schools News New head teacher for James Allen’s Junior School (JAGS) Mrs Sally-Anne Huang has been appointed new head of JAGS from September 2015. She told Families : “Many will tell you that Headship is lonely; that has never been my experience. My first eight years of headship have been all about being with people. Heads get to share aspirations, triumphs and difficulties too. It’s a privilege.

As an Oxford graduate, and student of literature, I want pupils to love learning for its own sake and to strive for excellence. But true education always comes back to people. To supporting the young on individual journeys so they are ready to lead purposeful, happy adult lives. As soon as I set foot in JAGS, I knew that this was at the heart of the school’s ethos too. Known for its academic excellence, JAGS is so much more. It is a school with heart and conscience and one which reaches out beyond its own community. I am looking forward to moving to Dulwich with my family and to working at JAGS. Most of all, I am looking forward to getting to know all the people.”

For admission enquiries call ( 8693 1181 : jags.org.uk

Thames Christian College introduces new scholarship scheme

grow in confidence. At Thames we encourage and celebrate our pupils’ talents and these scholarships will enable us to support gifted pupils financially.”

To apply for a scholarship, parents should write to the Registrar when applying for enrolment.

Candidates will be invited to attend the scholarship day in January when they will be assessed.

For further information about the school please visit: : thameschristiancollege.org.uk or contact:( 7228 3933

Tops for equality Merton has been named as the top London borough for promoting equality in schools, as well as being among the top 20 in England leading the way in tackling discrimination and bullying. ‘I am proud that we are top in London,’ said Merton’s cabinet member for education, Councillor Martin Whelton. ‘Merton is a borough of residents from many different backgrounds and we provide all the schools in the borough with continued support and resources in supporting equalities and diversity.’ Sarah Rose from Stonewall added, ‘We have seen phenomenal work from all of those local authorities that have participated in this year’s Education Equality Index – and would like to extend huge congratulations to Merton Council for all of their achievements in continuing to fight against bullying and discrimination.’

Changes at Northcote This autumn Northcote Lodge in Battersea welcomes a new Headmaster, Mark Smith, currently Deputy Headmaster at Caldicott, following the retirement of Mr Hansford. At Northcote’s sister school Broomwood Hall there is also change afoot, as the Head of the Upper School Carole Jenkinson takes over the running of all of Broomwood Hall including both of the Lower Schools and the Upper School.

Northcote Lodge 26 Bolingbroke Grove SW11 6EL ( 8682 8888 : northcotelodge.co.uk, Broomwood Hall 68-74 Nightingale Lane SW12 8NR ( 8682 8830 : broomwood.co.uk

Muddy mondays!

The Reception Class at The White House Preparatory School have started the new academic year enjoying 'Muddy Mondays'.

Storming results

If your child is gifted in Art, Music, Performing Arts, Sport or an academic area, they could

SCHS pupils celebrate excellent GCSE results (from left to right): Madison Lee, Sofia Khan, Holly Jackson, Abigail Rosselli, Lauren Moore, Elaine Traykov and Ginger Frame.

benefit from a new scholarship scheme being introduced by independent secondary school, Thames Christian College, near Clapham Junction.

The school is introducing scholarships for talented pupils which will remain throughout their time at the school, provided they maintain the expected standards.

Stephen Holsgrove, Head teacher, comments: “Our size enables each pupil to be known as an individual and receive the attention they need to enhance their strengths, develop new skills and

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Donning their wellington boots the children have been venturing outside to get in touch with nature. As part of their natural thinkers sessions, which develop their knowledge and understanding of the world, the children take part in pond dipping, nature trails and observing insects and animals in their natural habitats.

What a fantastic idea! SW12 : whitehouseschool.com

The girls at Streatham and Clapham High School have done it again, with a record number of A* grades at GCSE. The SCHS pupils secured the strongest showing at A* in the school’s history, with just under 40% of all grades achieved being at A* and a 100% pass rate at GCSE. ‘I am delighted by the public examination results achieved by SCHS pupils this year,’ said Head Master, Dr Millan Sachania. ‘This is a clear testimony to their hard work, dedication and ambition and I congratulate them, and their teachers, on this achievement.’ The older girls kept up their side too, with an A Level pass rate of 100% for the fourth consecutive year and students achieving results way beyond national average. With a clutch of excellent grades in their hands, many of the girls are heading off to top universities this month. Streatham and Clapham High School, 2 Abbotswood Road SW16 1AW ( 8677 8400 : schs.gdst.net

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Education

Il Club Italiano Italian for children aged 3-11, 4 to 5pm Thursdays: Fulham STEFANIA Also: Italian for adults Tel: 020 8748 6418 in Barnes and Richmond

Picture credit: Cuckooland.com

Cost: £363 per year.

www.italianlearning.co.uk www.racc.ac.uk Italian for adults classes in Richmond.

Children Learning to Succeed

How difficult is 11+ maths?

Maths, English, 11+ Preparation

By Lorrae Jaderberg

From the maths perspective, what are selective schools looking for? Unquestionably, a natural aptitude, borne out by their attempts to make exams ‘tutor-proof ’ by using problem-based questions. Many schools create papers using the Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring (CEM) based at Durham University.

The majority of maths topics in Foundation Level at GCSE need to be learnt to pass most 11+ exams. In fact, a top 11+ maths student could pass Foundation maths GCSE. Such a student would also score higher on an 11+ maths paper than an A-grade GCSE student would. Why? Because secondary schools teach structured, conventional maths, while 11+ exams require a good understanding of the basics along with an unconventional approach to problem-based questions, which rarely exist at GCSE.

statistics. If they have been covered, the requirements of the national curriculum are far below what is necessary for 11+ exams. For instance, algebra is not covered at all until year 6 and even then it is at a most basic standard.

Algebra-based questions in some 11+ exams include the informal usage of up to three-step equations along with simultaneous equations.

Similarly, ratios appear on the syllabus for year 6, but difficult questions requiring inverse ratios are way beyond the national curriculum.

This goes part way to explaining why teaching 11+ maths requires specialist tuition - it requires a tutor with an in-depth understanding of the subject and the methods required to teach GCSE-level topics to 10-year-olds. Additionally, the problem-solving aspect of more difficult 11+ questions involves thought processes that require very specialist teaching. There is also exam technique and strategy to be taught, something that would never be covered in primary school.

Additional maths tuition is essential for students taking the 11+ exams.

Bearing in mind that many 11+ exams are sat in the autumn term of year 6, a number of topics will not have been taught to the required level yet, including algebra, ratios, geometry and

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And remember, before going down the path of selective school exams, it is imperative to have your child assessed to identify their potential. If this does not meet the required level, a more sensible option will need to be considered.

•Jaderberg Krais offer educational advice, assessments and tutoring for all children, including the 11+ and offer a bespoke service. If you would like more information contact Lorrae Jaderberg and Katie Krais on ( 3488 0754 : jaderbergkrais.co.uk

Vicky Barnett BA, MSc, PGCE 020 8876 2553 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

Tuesday Tutors • We coach children for state and independent school and entry tests: VR, NVR, English, Maths and interview preparation.

• We are also happy to offer Maths and English support for children in school, and Home Education.

• NEW- a dedicated Maths tutor up to A Level available for home-visits in central London Tuesday Tutors has placed many children in top state and private schools. It is advisable to contact us early, as high demand may mean that your child will be placed on our waiting list.

Experienced tutors welcome Tel: 020 7735 8268

07906 312541

tuesdaytutors@hotmail.co.uk tuesdaytutors.com

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Education

Helping your child with maths

By Rob Eastaway

Get ready for a maths test. Don’t worry, it doesn’t involve quadratic equations, and you won’t need a slide rule or even a pencil and paper. You just need to imagine that a 10 year old girl has asked you for help with her homework.

Which of the following would you be able to explain to her?

•Partitioning •Number Bonds •Multiplication with the grid method •Arrays •Division using chunking You probably found that tough. In fact, I’m prepared to bet that, however good you think you are at maths, you scored very low in that test. Most parents and grandparents score zero, which is a bit worrying given that this terminology is now commonplace in primary schools across the UK. “He’s confusing me” I’ve always been confident in maths, but even I was intimidated by the new teaching methods. When my daughter started primary school, I was annoyed too because I realised that when it came to explaining how to do things, I was stuck with methods that would mean nothing to her. I was reminded of a friend who sat down to help his son with long division, only for the boy to run off to mum screaming “Dad isn’t helping, he’s just confusing me!”

So now that I have got to grips with the new methods and language, what advice can I give you?

Relax First of all, relax. Like all jargon, this new language is intimidating, but the methods behind it aren’t actually new at all. One mother, who was terrified about having to learn ‘grid multiplication’ discovered with great relief that it was actually very similar to an improvised method she used herself.

Secondly, remember that maths is far more than just the arithmetic children learn at school. It’s the maths they learn while playing board games and helping with the cooking or shopping, which really gives children a sense of numbers and how they fit in the real world. One day, your kids are playing

Monopoly, the next they are looking for the best interest rate deals available, or working out the hidden charges on their mobile phone contract!

For those most comfortable with the traditional shorthand methods of long multiplication and division, the good news is that those methods ARE still taught, usually after children have been introduced to the other more intuitive methods. In fact, one of the legacies of Michael Gove’s period as Education Minister is that old-fashioned arithmetic – including knowing times tables up to twelve – is once again knowledge required by all children when they leave primary school. So children will still be expected to do things like ‘borrow one and then pay it back.’

Borrowing 4 from…

A cautionary tale though. A teacher I met taught subtraction using the traditional method. One day she set a test, which included the calculation 52 take away 16. One boy in the class spotted that you can’t take 6 away from 2, and he knew that this meant he had to borrow. But where from? He noticed that the date was 24 November, so he decided to borrow 4 from the date and add it on to the 2! Everything on the page now added up correctly, as long as the teacher was prepared to accept that he had managed to go back in time four days!

The problem was that Stuart had been taught a mechanical method of arithmetic without any understanding of what it meant. That is why some of the ‘new’ methods, such as grid multiplication, are so useful for many children. They tend to be a bit slower, but they are more visual and children can usually understand them much better than the more efficient ‘black box’ methods that their parents learned.

Practice means confidence In the end, the most important thing is that your child becomes confident in dealing with numbers. The more they enjoy the maths that they do, the more they will practise, and the better they will get. By the time they are 18, few of them will be using long multiplication or any other written method – they’ll be working things out in their heads or using a calculator, like you do. But they will have gained a deeper understanding of numbers and problem-solving along the way, which will be essential in their adult life.

•Rob Eastaway is co-author of Maths for Mums & Dads published by Square Peg (Penguin Random House) RRP £10.99.

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Ofsted Registered

We accept Childcare Vouchers

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Education

Dyslexia: the hidden disability

By Anita Sawyer Vasan, a dyslexia specialist

Many children and young people have specific learning difficulties (SpLD) such as dyslexia, which go undetected. It is either because neither the students, their parents or their teachers are aware that they have processing difficulties. It can be a revelation to find out that there is a reason why they cannot read, spell or write fluently: it is not because they are lazy, it is because they have dyslexia.

SpLD screening checklist for parents Key indicators of dyslexia Observation

Never

Sometimes

Struggles with reading Bizarre spelling.

Mistakes in pronunciation such as remember pronounced “renember”.

Gap between verbal ability and written work.

Doesn’t seem to remember or understand what they have just read or what has been read to them, or what they have been told.

Can’t remember times-tables.

Often

Peter's story When Peter's mother rang me, she sounded upset and anxious: her son had been a happy and easy going child but over the last couple of years he had become increasingly moody and angry.

She told me that homework was a battleground and he hated school. His older brother was achieving well and Peter felt completely demoralised.

“The strange thing is, he makes such intelligent comments and observations when we're talking but he can't seem to remember the simplest of things”, she said.

Forgets books or equipment.

Mental maths makes them very anxious.

Work is incomplete.

Homework not written down properly.

Skips lines or misses words when reading.

Poor formation of letters, spacing and position of the page in handwriting.

Finds it hard to start writing.

Speaking is jumbled or incoherent.

An SpLD diagnostic assessment revealed that he had above average verbal ability and a very weak working memory (the ability to hold information in memory), coupled with poor phonological skills (the ability to break language down into sounds, which is necessary for fluent spelling and reading). As we discussed the results she started crying. “I feel so terrible for shouting at him.”

A few months later, Peter was still finding school challenging but he had a new found confidence.

He was really enjoying being in the peer group reading scheme, his parents were supporting a home-school phonics programme and he had started reading adventure books for pleasure.

Loses concentration and daydreams.

Getting an assessment A full SpLD assessment will let parents and teachers know how severe the students’ difficulties are, identify their learning strengths as well as their weaknesses and provide detailed recommendations of how best to intervene.

For more information or to discuss your child’s difficulties, please call Anita Sawyer Vasan on ( 07916 122 823.

Anita Sawyer Vasan, B.Soc.Sci (Hons), PGCE, CCET, RQTU, Dip. SpLD, APC MBPsS, a qualified SpLD/dyslexia specialist teacher, has worked as a Head Teacher and in SpLD/dyslexia assessment and intervention, both within schools (primary, secondary and FE) and at borough level. : love-learning.org

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Education

The Dominie www.thedominie.co.uk Tel: 020 7720 8783

An outstanding independent primary school for children with dyslexia and associated learning difficulties October 2015

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Education

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See fa milies southw It also e includ st.co.uk/wha es sch t neighb ools in son ouring borou ghs!

School Open Days Call to book your place now

For all September and October School Open days see our searchable Events calendar familiessouthwest.co.uk/whats-on SW1

Northcote Lodge SW11 8-13 Boys 17/10 10am-12pm ( 8682 8888 : northcotelodge.co.uk

Hill House School SW1 4-13 Co-Ed Tours every weekday morning in term time, 8.30am booking required ( 7584 1331 : hillhouseschool.co.uk

The Dominie SW11 6-11 Co-Ed Tours by appointment Please contact the school to find out more about their specialist teaching for dyslexic children ( 7720 8783 : thedominie.co.uk

Eaton Square School 2.5-13yrs Co.ed 12/11 ( 7931 9469 : eatonsquareschool.com

St Matthew’s CE Primary School SW1 4-11 Co-Ed Tours Monday mornings 10am, call to book ( 7504 0500 : stmwschool.org.uk Streatham & Clapham Prep School SW2 3-11 Girls Nursery and Prep School 3/10 10am12pm, 3/11 9am-10.45am, 1/12 9am-10.45am ( 8677 8400 : schs.gdst.net Gems Hampshire School SW3 3-13 Co-Ed Personalised tours on request ( 7352 7077 : ths.westminster.sch.uk Parkgate House School SW4 2-11 Boys and Girls 10/10 9.30am-12pm ( 7350 2452 : parkgate-school.co.uk Eaton House The Manor SW4 4-13 Boys Pre-Prep and Prep 17/10 9.30am-12pm ( 7924 6000 : eatonhouseschools.com Eaton House The Manor Girls’ SW4 4-11 Girls 17/10 9.30am-12pm ( 7924 6000 : eatonhouseschools.com Fulham Prep School SW6 4-13 Co-Ed Pre-Prep 19/11 9.30-11am no need to register, Prep School tours by appointment ( 7371 9911 : fulhamprep.co.uk Parsons Green Prep (formerly Eridge House) SW6 4-11 Co-Ed Open Day 3/10 plus midweek tours in term time by appointment ( 7371 9009 : parsonsgreenprep.co.uk Kensington Prep School SW6 4-11 Girls 6/10 1.45pm booking required ( 7731 9300 : kensingtonprep.gdst.net Ravenstone Prep School SW7 4-11 Co-Ed 12/11 18/11 booking required ( 7225 3131 : ravenstoneschools.com St. Nicholas Preparatory School SW7 2-10 Co-Ed 15/10 and 26/11 9.30-11.30am ( 7225 1277 : stnicholasprep.co.uk Newton Prep School SW8 3-13 Co-Ed 10/10 9.30am-12.30pm plus Headmistress’ Tours every Friday morning by appointment ( 7720 4091 : newtonprepschool.co.uk Redcliffe School SW10 3-11 Girls 3-8 Boys Tours Tuesdays & Thursdays during term time 9.30am booking required ( 7352 9247 : redcliffeschool.com Dolphin School SW11 4-11 Co-Ed Tours most Thursdays 9.1510.30am by appointment ( 7924 3472 : dolphinschool.org.uk

The Thames Christian College SW11 11-16 Co-Ed 3/10 10am-1pm, 7/10 11am-1pm, 5/11 11am-1pm ( 7228 3933 : thameschristiancollege.org.uk Christ Church CE Primary School SW11 4-11 Co-Ed 12/11 9.30-10am by appointment ( 7228 2812 : christchurchbattersea.co.uk Broomwood Hall Lower School 4-8 Co-Ed 13/10 9-10.30am ( 8682 8830 : broomwood.co.uk

SW12

Broomwood Hall Upper School 8-13 Girls 13/10 9-11am ( 8682 8830 : broomwood.co.uk

SW12

Hornsby House School SW12 4-11 Co-Ed 15/10 9am ( 8673 7573 : hornsbyhouse.org.uk White House Prep School SW12 4-11 Co-Ed 28/11 9.30-11.30am ( 8674 9514 whitehouse.fluencycms.co.uk Ibstock Place School SW15 3-18 Co-Ed Pre-Pre and Prep 11/11 9.30am Senior School 4/11 9.30-11.30am booking required ( 8876 9991 / ( 8392 5803 : ibstockplaceschool.co.uk Granard Primary School SW15 4-11 Co-Ed 8/10 9.30am, 3/11 9.30am, 7/12 9.30am booking required ( 8788 3606 : granardprimary.co.uk Lion House School SW15 3-7 Co-Ed 3/10 10am-12pm ( 8780 9446 : lionhouseschool.co.uk Broomwood Hall Lower School 4-8 Co-Ed 15/10 9-10.30am ( 8682 8830 : broomwood.co.uk

Franciscan Primary School SW17 4-11 Co-Ed 13/10 9.15am and 10.45am, 22/10 10.45am, 10/11 9.15am and 10.45am, 18/11 9.15am ( 8672 3048 : franciscan.ismyschool.net/franciscan/home Burntwood School SW17 11-18 Girls 6/10 8.45-11am, 8/10 8.45-11am ( 8946 6201 : burntwoodschool.com Ernest Bevin College SW17 11-16 Boys, 16-18 Co-Ed 9/10 9-10.30am ( 8672 8582 : ernestbevin.london The Roche School SW18 2.5-11 Co-Ed 8/10 9.30-11am, 13/11 9.30-11am ( 8877 0823 : therocheschool.co.uk St Anne’s C.E. Primary School SW18 4-11 Co-Ed 11/11 and 2/12 booking required ( 8874 1863 : st-annes.wandsworth.sch.uk The Study Prep School SW19 4-11 Girls One Open Morning per year, usually in March, tours on Tuesday mornings by appointment ( 8947 6969 : thestudyprep.co.uk Wimbledon Common Prep School SW19 4-7 Boys 14/10 9.15-10.45am booking required ( 8946 1001 : wimbledoncommonprep.co.uk King’s College School SW19 7-18 Boys, plus girls in the Sixth Form Sixth Form Entry Open Day 8/10 6-8.15pm no need to book ( 8255 5300 : kcs.org.uk Rosemead Prep School SE21 3-11 Co-Ed 3/10 10am-12.30pm, 3/11 9.30-11am ( 8670 5865 : rosemeadprepschool.org.uk Dulwich College SE21 7-18 Boys Entry for the Junior School 3/10 9.30am–12pm, 5/11 1.30–3.15pm, Open Morning for Year 7 Entry 10/10 9.30am–12pm ( 8693 3601 / 8299 8432 : dulwich.org.uk Alleyns Junior School SE22 4-11 Co-Ed 8/10 1.130-3pm, 10/11 1.30-3pm ( 8693 3457 : alleyns.org.uk

SW16

Streatham & Clapham High School SW16 11-18 Girls Senior School 14/10 9.15am11.30am, 6/11 9.15-11.30am Sixth Form 8/10 6.30-8.30pm ( 8677 8400 : schs.gdst.net Bertrum House School SW17 2-7 Co-Ed 19/11 9.45-11am ( 8767 4051 : bertrumhouseschool.co.uk Finton House SW17 4-11 Co-Ed 8/10 6-8pm ( 8682 0921 : fintonhouse.org.uk

Jags SE22 4-18 Girls Senior School 10/10 10am-1pm, 12/11 10.30am-12pm, Prep School 10/10 10am12pm ( 8693 1181 : jags.org.uk Sydenham High School SE26 4-18 Girls Junior School 7/10 9.30-11am and 3/11 9.30-11am High School 4/11 9.30-11am, 17/11 9.30-11am ( 8557 7000 : sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net Radnor House TW1 11-18 Co-ed 3/10 9.30am, 12pm and 2.30pm, 14/11 9.30am, 12pm and 2.30pm ( 8090 9688 : radnorhouse.org

(Note: we try and research correct listings, but please check with school before setting out as things can change)

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Open Days - which school next?

by Robina Cowan, editor Families South East

It's the open day term - the best time to explore your options in the hunt for your child's next school.

If you've lived in the area for any length of time, you'll already know where your local schools are; the next step is to find out what they are like behind closed doors.

• Log onto the government website www.direct.gov.uk and type 'find a school' into the search box for lists of local schools, exam results, school profiles and application details • Go to www.familiessouthwest.co.uk for up-to-date open day dates and contact details for London independent and other schools, plus a wealth of education features • Read inspection reports online at www.ofsted.gov.uk (for state schools) and www.isc.co.uk (for independent schools), but be wary of out-of-date reports as things can change very quickly • www.findaschool.info lists schools by type, the distance from your home, a snapshot of recent Ofsted gradings, and a link to the local authority admissions team • Another useful resource is www.goodschoolsguide.uk which has authoritative guides to different school types, school listings, and if you are prepared to make the investment, offers an advisory service which can be tailored to your child.

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Having whittled down your choices and looked at their websites, ask for a prospectus for all the schools you are interested in, plus their admission criteria and an application form: read them, and visit the schools. You wouldn't buy a house without going to see it first, but surprising numbers of parents choose schools without stepping over the threshold first.

Other parents are useful for a view of local schools. Ask what they think about their child's school's strengths and weaknesses, taking with a pinch of salt any extreme comments which might be based on a specific experience and a tad biased.

Another interesting exercise is passing the schools at the end of the day.

Do the pupils look confident and purposeful, are they chatting in groups but still have the grace to let you pass? Or are they pushing each other around, dropping food wrappers and rubbishing their teachers? Could you see your child coming out of this school?

Be wary of reading too much into league table results - they are useful but provide a statistical snapshot without any 'flesh' or explanation. A school with a challenging intake may be making magnificent strides through committed teaching, yet on paper would compare poorly to a school whose more able children find exams easier.

There's no substitute for visiting your shortlisted schools with an open mind, asking lots of questions and trusting your gut instincts.

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Picture credit: Littlewoods Ireland

Schools come in all shapes and sizes, and league tables, prospectuses, Ofsted reports and SATs results are enough to make most parents' heads spin. The good news is that thousands of parents have survived the process before - here's how it's done.

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

Passionate about teaching and learning

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Education Why is everyone giving their (bright) children extra tuition?

There are a number of reasons. First of all competition for good senior school places is now greater than ever. The 11+ exam itself is also becoming increasingly tougher year by year. Some of the country’s most prestigious schools have changed their entrance criteria and exam requirements, with many senior school entrance exams now over a twostage process, with the first exams taking place much earlier in the year.

This means children have to be fully prepared 4-5 months earlier than previously (preferably by the end of July in Year 5) and this has created a rush for tutors. Without extra tuition, they stand little chance of getting into the top grammar and private schools. Even the naturally bright children will need the right tuition to achieve places into the top schools.

Picture credit: F&F Back to School tesco.com

Tutoring organisations have had to adjust their courses by increasing the number of teaching hours and/or the number of lessons, as children now need to be prepared much earlier. For instance, 11+ specialists, Mrs Jones Education, have introduced a separate once monthly Mock Exam Course for their pupils in addition to their weekly teaching course. They introduced this last year and it proved invaluable in helping the children’s confidence and exam technique (an absolute requirement for the 11+). Parents can either choose to do the combined weekly tuition and monthly mock exam course, or, if their child is already receiving weekly tuition elsewhere, they can opt for the Mock Exam Course only. This also means they can offer a more affordable option to parents on lower incomes.

Their Mock Exam Course is unique in that they provide an element of teaching as well as timed exam practice.

What to look out for You should always check that your child’s tutor is a qualified graduate teacher, with substantial experience of the 11 Plus exam requirements and process (including scholarships and bursaries). A good tutor should have an excellent knowledge of the grammar and private schools throughout their area – they should be able to recommend appropriate senior schools depending on your child’s ability, personality and interests. Be realistic and do not push your child beyond their capabilities – find a school which suits them, not one which suits you! Remember your child will potentially be spending the next seven years of their lives at their new senior school, so make sure it is the right choice.

• Contact Mrs Jones Education: ( 8390 6076 : 11plustuition.co.uk : 11plusmockexam.co.uk

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FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

The Junior Lawyers’ Club Workshops for 8-11 year olds

Not just for aspiring lawyers!

Learn the skills of a Lawyer through role-play and drama

Debate - Advocacy - Drama Raising confidence, mental agility and self esteem through fun activities Venues in Kensington and Wimbledon

www.juniorlawyersclub.co.uk info@juniorlawyersclub.co.uk

October 2015

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Party shop New party shop opened by Miss Dee Faced and family catering for all your party needs in and around London.

We have been entertaining at children’s parties for the past 5 years and specialize in balloon decorating so whether you are planning a wedding, christening, birthday or just after a fancy dress costume contact Occasions.

Childrens / Adult Face painting Balloons Popcorn machine hire Fancy Dress ENJOY 10% off balloons when you book a party er, mb e valid until 30th November 020 7730 7088 em n!! r, r we'e laura@occasionspimlico.co.uk e mb allo us me H www.OccasionsPimlico.co.uk Re 's... isit

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Teach children to love reading

By Justine Crow

It doesn’t take a literary professor to win the argument that being able to read is a vital life skill; whether for pleasure or the practical, from birthday cards to bus tickets, reading enhances our dayto-day lives and enlivens our inner ones. But a ‘love’of reading enriches us much, much further, because a passion for reading for reading’s sake leads to curiosity. This helps with all areas of education, starting with confidence in spelling and an increased vocabulary, and later on leading to the ability to research and discover independently. Finally, reading for the sheer heck of it is possibly the most intensely satisfying of all lifelong human activities.

How to get it started So, how do you inspire that passion? Here are my top ten tips.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

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With your baby & toddler, choose books YOU like. Your enthusiasm is infectious.

Ask the advice of your local bookseller; they are a mine of information. But avoid asking a very small child to choose a book as they are much more interested in the playtable.

Learning to read takes time. Have patience and they will crack it eventually. And accept all offers of extra reading support at school without shame.

The books they use at school for Foundation Stage & KS1 to learn to read are different from standard picture books. If you want to develop a love of reading, go and buy books after school simply for pleasure.

Once they’ve cracked it, the key word is ‘indulge.’

Never say, “You’ve got too many books.”

NOBODY has too many books. And if they enjoy a book from a series, buy the next episode.

6.

Many of the books we had on our shelves as children are quite difficult for kids today. Save them for reading aloud at bedtime and they will learn to love them as you did.

7. The new wave of illustrated novels for younger readers are brilliant for introducing the classics.

8. Children often choose titles that appear to be too young for them. This is because they know they can manage them. Age ranges on covers are just a guide. And allow them to read anywhere breakfast table, stairs, backseat, loo. Turn the cereal packet round, consider a comic subscription and get the paper delivered.

9. Reward them with books that appeal to their passions; Frozen, Peppa Pig, Disney and football.

Remember that sticker books are still books, as are colouring, joke, Lego and recipe books.

10. Read by example. Pick up a paperback. If they see you doing it, they will do it too.

•Justine Crow is the author of The Little Book of Nits published by Bloomsbury. Parent of three, she owns her own bookshop with her partner, The Bookseller Crow on Hill in Crystal Palace, and is a qualified swimming teacher. And in what little spare time she has, she also runs gastronomic writing retreat courses in France and is the food critic of The Transmitter. http://booksellercrow.co.uk

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Charlton Manor School

Will you join the war on sugar?

Following on from the success of his Food Revolution campaign, Jamie Oliver now needs your support in his ‘war on sugar.’

The shocking facts

Cookease

Worldwide, more than 42m children under the age of five are either overweight or obese. This current generation will live shorter lives than their parents if nothing is done to address childhood obesity and diet-related disease. Britain’s children are now some of the unhealthiest in Europe, with 1 in 3 children leaving primary school either overweight or obese. A staggering 26,000 primary school children go to hospital each year because of rotten teeth. Pulling them out costs the NHS £30m a year!

One local company which has been successfully doing that for the last 3 years is Cookease.

Jamie’s fight

Different weekly recipes (such as Maple Glazed Salmon, Mushroom and Gruyere Cheese Puffs, Banana Cheesecake and Moroccan Chicken & Fruity Couscous) encourage the children to explore new flavours and textures whilst having fun rolling, mixing and chopping the ingredients. They also learn where the weekly ingredients come from and how they grow, and even grow their own crop each term!

Earlier this year, Jamie successfully campaigned to get compulsory, practical food education on school curriculums for all children up to the age of 14.

He is now lobbying for an introduction of a 20p levy per litre on every soft drink containing sugar and for a reduction of 40%, by 2020, in the amount of sugar added to products. He has just self-imposed a levy of 10p on all soft drinks with added sugar in his restaurants, with the money raised funding food education in schools and other health initiatives.

His aim for both campaigns is simple: to teach children about food, where it comes from, how it grows, how to cook it and have fun cooking it and enjoy eating it. Jamie believes that “equipping children with the knowledge and confidence to cook from scratch will form positive eating habits that will last a lifetime”.

Set up by 2 Wandsworth mums who are passionate about “getting kids involved in all aspects of home-cooking”, they run weekly cookery classes for 2-4 year olds teaching the children important cooking skills with an early introduction to all food types. Classes take place in a wonderful, relaxed home environment.

But, it’s not only the children that learn – many of the mums (and dads) say that the recipes become family mealtime favourites! Abby, mum of William, says “My son has completed a year of Cookease classes and they have been fantastic……The meals they make are delicious, mainly savoury, and we make them again and again!” Abby has just signed up Charlotte, who, as a baby, watched William in class.

To find out more about Cookease or to book a trial, go to : cookease.org.uk info@cookease.org.uk ( 07825 788446 Cookease has added its voice to both of Jamie’s petitions. To add yours, please go to : jamieoliver.com We have.

October 2015

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Working Mums Thinking of going back to work?

There is help out there

By Mandy Garner, Working Mums editor

Have you taken a career break to look after children or relatives and are you looking to get back to work? The good news is that the last couple of years have seen a growth in the number of 'returnship'-type schemes offered by employers to help women back into the workplace. That number has increased significantly this year.

What are Returnships and do they work?

Returnships are initiatives that help mainly women who have taken a career break get ready for a return to work and while some just provide support for getting back to work, others include placements or internships. Some lead to permanent placements. ! Nannies, Maternity Nurses, Housekeepers and Mother’s Helps

All our applicants are personally interviewed and their references checked

! Permanent and Temporary ! Residential, Daily, Full and Part-Time ! Evening Babysitting Register

Tel: 020 8947 4666 info@wimbledonnannies.co.uk www.wimbledonnannies.com 184 Copse Hill, SW20 0SP Fax: 020 8947 0405 Facebook: Wimbledon Nannies Twitter: @wimbledonannies

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bestbear.co.uk accredited

The first initiatives were in the financial services sector where there was a particularly acute lack of diversity in top management roles, but this is now spreading to other sectors from advertising to real estate as many realise they have a similar problem of lack of females in senior positions.

All of the initiatives recognise the kind of challenges women face when they have taken significant time out of the workplace. Lack of confidence is the main hurdle. Women often convince themselves that they have nothing to offer when this is far from the case. They are also worried that the world of work has moved on without them. However, experts say that the core skills often remain the same. Changes in technology can be brushed up on with research and, in some cases, extra training.

That is not to say that it is not hard to get back to work and for some a change of tack may be necessary. Linda Whittern, former Director of Careers Partnership (UK), says women often underestimate how much they may have changed since they left the workplace. They may have acquired greater maturity and what they want out of work may have changed, she says. It is

important to be clear about what you want and how you want to work, research the organisations that you want to work for, monitor their job vacancies, use all your networks to find out about openings and prepare well for meetings or interviews.

How do you explain a career break on a CV? Linda says a good ploy is to write a functional rather than a chronological cv, emphasising what you can do and your experience. “Wow employers with what you’ve got to offer them on the first page of your CV, briefly list your jobs and time out details in a short career history section on the second page of the CV,” she says. In interviews preparation is all. She suggests researching positive ways you can address any challenges your prospective employer might be facing.

Although returner initiatives are still relatively scarce, the fact that growing numbers of employers are recognising that women returners could be an important talent pool for them, offering years of previous work experience plus the skills and maturity that comes with being a parent, marks an important turning point. It could also significantly boost women returners' confidence across the board. : workingmums.co.uk the No.1 jobsite for working mums. Visit the site to search for flexible full time, part time, home based and self-employed jobs and franchise opportunities.

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Health and wellbeing Did you know chiropractors can help relieve asthma? Or that giving birth with confidence and without fear in a relaxed environment can lead to an easier birth, happier babies who then grow up to become confident people? Nor did we. I hope you’ll enjoy reading these lovely case studies.

Kinesiology was discovered by Dr. George Goodheart in the 1960s. It uses muscle testing to discover the real cause of health problems and symptoms. It’s a technique where therapists are able to discover the underlying cause of the health issue – be it physical, nutritional or emotional. It’s a bit unconventional but can provide remarkable results where other therapies have failed. Here is what happened to Tom. Q: What was ailment or condition treated?

A: The condition treated was a difficulty in approaching problem solving, especially maths. This resulted in feelings of anxiety, restlessness and poor concentration. Teachers were concerned by a lack of interest in mainstream subjects, as Tom only seemed to enjoy school because of good friendships and social activities. Learning was very selective even at the very young ages of 6 and 7 and it was extremely hard for his teachers to motivate and teach him in a way that made sense to him. Tom simply did not see the point of learning sequential things like days of the week, colours, or could not get his head around the notion of capital cities and boundaries between countries. These are just examples of how abstract things (therefore especially mathematics) were difficult to grasp.

Q: What therapy was used and how long for?

A: A very foresighted teacher advised Tom’s mother to try kinesiology. Over a period of 12 months, regular kinesiology sessions were performed (on average every 6 weeks) which helped identify and correct a lack of brain integration.

Q: Patient feedback: A: Tom was given a series of exercises (such as cross-crawling on the spot) in order to physically establish vital brain connections, which had been missing apparently as a result of Tom never crawling as a baby. Nutrition and emotional issues were also an important part of those regular kinesiology sessions, making this therapy truly holistic. Not only did it rectify Tom’s learning difficulties but it also contributed hugely in making him the well-balanced and happy individual he is today.

•Contact Francoise Jordan MAR, Cert.ASK, 15 years in practice. ( 0794 1044110 fe.jordan22@gmail.com : francoisejordan.co.uk

Seeking therapy is the beginning of a new road At some point in life, 80% of the population will suffer from problems such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks or loss of confidence. These feelings can develop out of the blue, but they may also be linked to traumatic events such as bullying, bereavement, relationship problems or work issues. Suddenly it can feel impossible to cope, which impacts on the whole family. The good news is that talk therapy can help to resolve these feelings and move in a more positive direction.

A hub for talk therapy The UKTherapyGuide.com is a portal that enables people look up information about life issues and search for the best qualified support. It was the idea of Fulham-based psychotherapist Floss Knight: “I noticed a marked rise in people of all ages looking for help. I wanted to raise awareness of the underlying issues and talk about the effectiveness of talk therapy as a way forward. I set about creating a hub website where people can seek information and find the best qualified therapists. We now have over 500 professional therapists registered with us across the country who specialize in all aspects of individual and family counseling.” The website enables users to type in their postcode and connect with a local therapist who has the correct credentials for their particular needs. The UK Therapy Guide has also started to provide phone and online counseling for people with busy schedules.

Stress and Anxiety Awareness Month As part of Anxiety Awareness Month, which takes place in October, the UK Therapy Guide will be providing the opportunity to connect with leading therapists. You can ask questions about your situation or how talk therapy works.

You can download free relaxation sessions which help you de-stress. There will also be special articles and a blog covering interesting specialist issues. Just login to www.uktherapyguide.com The need to support children too Part of the event will look to focus on particular issues affecting children and young adults. The pressures of developing, school and student life, exams, online bullying and inappropriate behavior are just some of the factors that can be problematic. It is essential that families are able to spot the warning signs and find the right tools to tackle these issues. If feelings are not addressed at an early stage, they can manifest themselves in later life. Experts in the field of child psychotherapy will be posting special videos covering this subject.

To find out more about Stress and Anxiety Awareness Month, go to : uktherapyguide.com/SAAW

•Floss Knight – Founder of : UKTherapyGuide.com

Disclaimer: While, to the best of our knowledge, the therapists are bona fide, experienced and qualified, it is your responsibility to check their references and qualifications.

Names of patients have been changed.

To feature in this column write to editor@familiessouthwest.co.uk

October 2015

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Parenting: building resilience

Helicopter parenting or under-parenting?

Extracts from the book: Green Parenting. How to raise your children, help save the planet and not go mad

Put away your cotton wool Helicopter parents tend to hover over their children, intervening in their every move and twitching to catch them at the tiniest stumble. They always decide for the child whether an activity is safe or not.

The opposite of helicopter parenting is sometimes called under-parenting and it could help you avoid producing a cosseted ‘cotton-wool kid’. It is about giving children some age-appropriate space (both emotional and physical) to explore their world and learn about risk for themselves. A safe outdoors space in which to have adventures is essential, but whether that is your garden or the park, it’s a chance for you to let them make decisions and sort out the squabbles themselves, while remaining watchful.

Picture credits: Phil Barnes, www.philbarnes-commercialphotography.co.uk

This laid-back style of parenting is surprisingly hard to do, because it is challenging not to intervene when there is a risk of minor bumps or during disagreements between friends or siblings. Children who are used to parents watching over them can feel a bit clingy at first as they adapt to making their own choices and mistakes. All this time though they are learning about risk, independence, their environment and how to negotiate with others.

Top 5 tips for under-parenting 1. Set them a task with a reward attached, such as building the world’s tallest Lego tower to gain 20 minutes of telly time, or finding a living creature for 10 minutes more story time before bed. Older children could climb a tree to earn a chocolate biscuit. Then withdraw and leave them to get on with it. This will focus their minds and encourage independent thought and teamwork.

2. Be invisible but present. Can you spy from the kitchen window or listen from the next room to check all is well, but give them the impression they are all by themselves?

3. Ignore dirt and snot slugs. Don’t fuss over them with tissues and wipes while they are still happily playing.

4. Give them a chance to work things out for themselves before you holler ‘Try the steps’ or ‘That’s too high’.

5. If they get hurt, don’t criticize their actions. They will have learnt something new and probably just need a cuddle instead.

Try not to feel guilty either.

Consumerism you can do without Learning from nature The most eco-friendly learning projects are those which use household recycling items, food and objects gathered from nature. These can include pasta art, milk-bottle lids with a pine cone affixed and decorated, leaf prints, bark rubbing, collages out of birthday cards and sewing projects using outgrown clothes.

Of course, you will also need to buy certain items to help create and decorate the many works of art. Source beeswax plasticine, air-drying modelling clay, paints made from natural earth pigments or foodstuffs, wooden beads, plant-dyed felt, recycled tissue paper and crayons containing beeswax (usually combined with paraffin). You can also find eco-glues that are safe for children: look for those containing natural ingredients such as citric acid and rice flour.

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Shop-bought smoothies They are packed full of sugar, often overpriced and create tons of waste. Make your own healthier version with hidden vegetables, or stick to water.

Buggy boards Can be really useful but these make for lazy kids. Just allow more time to get to where you need to go.

Children should be able to walk or scoot half a mile and back from the age of three.

Colour-coded toys Manufacturers frequently produce feminized versions of their best sellers. We all know that boys like playing kitchens and girls like playing with building blocks, so buy rainbow colours if possible to save money and keep everyone happy.

Flavoured water in a bottle Use reusable, BPA free bottles to fill at home from the tap. The mineral levels of some bottled waters make them unsuitable for young children anyway.

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Nature the best teacher Natural settings have so much to offer for children with behavioural, physical difficulties or with autistic spectrum disorders. As with all children, the space and fresh air can improve their sense of well-being and lead to more exercise and a release of tension. It has been found that children with ADHD who play in green spaces exhibit less severe symptoms than those who only play in ‘hard’ landscapes or indoors.

Outdoor activities can show a whole new side to their personality, as well as help with making friends and improving social skills. Not only that, but children with special needs often learn best through doing, so being outside can give them the opportunity to get involved with more practical activities.

You don’t need an organized excursion to a nature reserve to gain these benefits; simple gardening activities or time in a park have been shown to be highly valuable .

that Turn off that TV, hide ve fun tablet and let them ha n and while using their brai imagination....

“During outdoor education sessions that I have run over the years, I would often notice how intently engaged a child was in pond dipping or working out which mini-beast they had found.

Frequently the child’s teacher or parent would reveal that the child could barely concentrate for a moment in the classroom.”

Gooey silly putty for pre-schoolers This stuff is like Play-Doh but more mouldable. You can alter the consistency by changing the amount of Epsom salts you add – less for a gunkier, stickier feel and more for a firmer pliable texture which will bounce if made into a ball, or copy newsprint off a newspaper.

You will need: ½ tsp Epsom salts 2 small cups or bowls 1 tbsp white glue

½ tsp water food colouring a craft stick for stirring

This makes an egg-sized portion of putty ideal for one child to play with. Simply multiply the recipe for more. Stir the salts into the water in a small cup or bowl until it has mostly dissolved (it may not do so completely). Add in a few drops of food colouring. Now add this mixture to your glue in another bowl and stir with the craft stick until it becomes mouldable. Store in a sealed pot in the fridge – it should last for a few months. For easy tidying up, play with it on greaseproof paper.

October 2015

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•Book available from www.greenbooks.co.uk £17.99. 30% discount for Families readers with voucher code GPOCT15, valid until 31st December 2015, FREE UK delivery

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Half-term HOLIDAY activities listings We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed.

Please double check event with the organiser to avoid disappointment.

Compiled by Joanna Parry

ARTS & CRAFTS Active Art The Nature Study Centre, Wandsworth Common ( 07775 781332, artimatelondon@gmail.com : naturescope.co.uk 27-30 October Active Art - Just Doodle Be part of the National Big Draw with ‘Every drawing tells a story’.

Discover drawing techniques, sketching, doodles, crazy marks and 3d drawings. Age 5-12, 9.30–3pm 27-30 October. Earth Craft – The Forest Study and create creatures, habitats, feeders, forest trails, camps and fairy houses. Age 3-6, 9.30am-12pm

Eddie Catz Putney and Wimbledon

Fulham Palace Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA ( 7736 3233 : fulhampalace.org 26-30 October Half Term Archaeology Workshop: Who was here before?

Ever wondered who was here before us? Find out all about our prehistoric ancestors and how they lived on the site of Fulham Palace.

Examine archaeological finds, handle artefacts, try on costumes, and get messy with art and crafts. Ages 812, 10am-4pm, £15, booking essential

Fun with Fimo West London ( 8992 3767 : funwithfimoclay.co.uk 23 and 30 October Holiday Activity Sessions. Fun and creative sessions, fully supervised and non-messy. Includes Minion Madness and Happy Halloween. Age 6+, bring a packed lunch, 10.15am-4.15pm, £50, email to book fimofun@tiscali.co.uk

Landmark Arts Centre Ferry Road, Teddington TW11 9NN ( 8977 7558, education@landmarkartscentre.org : landmarkartscentre.org 26-30 October Half Term Events. A range of arts and crafts classes, courses and clubs throughout the half term holidays, including Hulabop, fun hulahooping workshops for all the family

DANCE Funky Moves

Eddie Catz First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street SW15 1SF 42 Station Road SW19 2LP ( 34755268 : eddiecatz.com 26-30 October Half Term Workshops. Includes Playball, Spooky Science with Little House of Science, Dynamic Dance 'Thriller' Dance, Little Italian Feast with Cookie Crumbles, Paddington Bear with A Little Bit Productions and Halloween Arty Family Fun with The Creation Station. Plus, don’t miss their Halloween parties with spooky spectacular magic, fancy dress competitions, food and entertainment, 29 and 30 October

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The Bedford, 77 Bedford Hill, Balham, SW12 9HD Info@funkymovesdance.com ( 07810 431101 : funkymovesdance.com Spooky Holiday Course & Big Screen Boogie! 4 days of dance, arts & crafts, games & fun, followed by a Friday spooktacular movie club & disco party! For Ages 5-12 Years. Mon 26th Oct – Thursday 29th Oct 9.30am-12.30pm PLUS Big Screen Boogie: Friday 30th Oct 12.30pm – 4.00pm. Discounts available for all those booking both activities!

Fun in French October Day Camp. 100% French club, 100% fun. An unforgettable week of learning – all en francais! French classes, workshops and activities, with French dancing and storytelling, ages 4-11, 9am-3pm

MUSIC & DRAMA Amanda’s Action Club Skylark Café, Wandsworth Common SW18 3RT ( 01895 623999, info@amandasactionclub.co.uk : amandasactionclub.co.uk 26, 27, 29 and 30 October Active Music Baby and Toddler Classes. Fun and energetic, for little ones and older children too. £10 pay as you go, check website for times

The Chickenshed Theatre Chase Side, Southgate N14 4PE ( 8292 9222 : chickenshed.org.uk 26-30 October Autumn Shed. Develop a wide range of performance skills through drama, dance, singing and storymaking. Parents and friends are invited in on the final afternoon to watch a performance. 10am-4pm, £130 for the week with a 50% sibling discount, age 5-12

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes Streatham, Battersea, Herne Hill, Sydenham ( 0800 107 7949, mail@funkymonkey.info : funkymonkey.info 26-30 October ‘Frightful Fingers’ Electronic Keyboard Workshops. Brilliant taster courses for ages 4-8, with super spooky Halloween themes,

teaching children to read, play and write notes C-A, plus music-based activities. 10am-2pm, £40 with a £35 sibling discount.

Studio Film School ( 7101 9329 : studiofilmschool.co.uk October Half Term Workshop Aliens vs. Zombies. Choose your side as you join three days of filmmaking at either Balham or Chelsea centres. Young filmmakers

will have tons of fun making zombie and alien special effects with just the right amount of extra terrestrial ooze or zombie gruesome wounds in this spooky half term workshop.

Suitable for ages 7+

The Music House for Children 306-310 Uxbridge Road W12 7LJ ( 8932 2652 : musichouseforchildren.co.uk 28 October Musical Story Telling. A feast of music about Jack and the Beanstalk with instruments, dancing and lots of imagination. 10am, ages 2-4, £10 28 October Messy Hands. Create wondrous artwork around the theme of Jack and the Beanstalk. 11.15am, ages 24, £10 30 October Into The Woods. A musical theatre workshop, great fun and extremely creative. 10am-3pm, ages 5-11, £40 including lunch.

Perform Drama Across SW London ( 0845 400 4000 : perform.org.uk 26-28 October Alice in Wonderland. Take a tumble with Alice and meet Wonderland's weird and wonderful inhabitants. Perform Drama’s brilliant team of enthusiastic actors,

LANGUAGES Et Patati Patata Fulham Start Centre and St Andrew’s Church, Fulham SW6 ( 07966 893674, caroline@etpatatipatata.com : etpatatipatata.com 26-30 October

Funky Monkey

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Half-term HOLIDAY activities listings

SwimWay The Strings Club musicians and dancers will work their magic to ensure your child enjoys every minute. Daily 2-hour sessions, ages 4-7, £100 for the three days, 25% sibling discount

Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB ( 8543 4888 : polkatheatre.com 27 October Under Foot. An immersive sensory experience using movement, dance and play. Age 1-5, 10–11am, 11.45am–12.45pm and 2.15–3.15pm, £18 per child.

28 October Big Bears and Little Bears. Bring along your favourite bear and explore a snowy story in this creative play session inspired by Raymond Briggs’s The Bear. Age 34, 10.15–11.15am; age 4-5, 11.30am-12.30pm, £18 29 October Behind The Scenes: Scene It!.

Calling all budding actors! Develop short scenes inspired by props and costumes from past Polka productions. 10.30am-3.30pm, age 6-9, £30

Song Academy • Holy Trinity Church, Brook Green W6 7BL • Upper Mission Hall, Parsons Green SW6 4UH ( 07710 023743, contact@songacademy.co.uk : songacademy.co.uk 22-23 October and 29-30 October Half Term Holiday Workshops.

Develop creative lyric writing skills, improvise melodies and harmonies and compose instrumental parts and solos. Each workshop is over two afternoons 2-5pm, with a performance of the finished song at the end. Ages 8-11 and 12-16, £75, siblings £70, snacks provided

The Strings Club The London Steiner School, SW12 0LT. ( 0121 369 1950. : thestringsclub.org Inspire your child with music with The Strings Club Holiday Camp.

October 2015

Packed full of fun-filled musical experiences, the award-winning holiday camp is an ideal introduction to music for both complete beginners and budding string players—with complimentary instrument hire included! Each day features magical musical workshops alongside high-quality guitar, violin and ukulele classes led by top strings teachers.

Half days available. Prices start from £17.50

SPORT Chelsea FC Soccer School Venues across SW London ( 7957 8220 londondevelopment@chelseafc.com / soccerschools@chelseafc.com : chelseafc.com/foundation 26-30 October London Soccer School. For boys and girls aged 3-13. Times vary according to course, from £30

Fulham FC Foundation Venues in Fulham ( 0870 442 5432, holidaycourses@fulhamfc.com : fulhamfc.com 26-30 October Holiday Courses. Holiday courses for all abilities in a fun and challenging environment. 3-5yrs, 911am, 6-14 yrs, 9am-3pm, from £15 per day

Henry Lamb Tennis

East Sheen, Putney, Streatham and Wimbledon ( 8871 3972, info@swimway.co.uk : swimway.co.uk 26-30 October Swimming Courses. Intensive courses to improve your child’s swimming technique, on a private or semi-private basis. Courses run for half an hour each day, book early to avoid disappointment. 3-9yrs, dates and times dependent on venue

Telford Park Tennis Club 35A Killieser Avenue SW2 4NX ( 8674 5979 : telfordparktennisclub.co.uk 26-30 October Tennis Camps. A series of fun, 5 day coaching sessions for all levels and abilities from 5 to 15 years, 11.30am-4pm, £30 per day or £140 for the week, no membership required

Urban Ascent Rock Climbing Unit 5 Parsons Green Depot, 33-35 Parsons Green Lane, Fulham SW6 4HH ( 7751 0913, info@urbanascent.co.uk : urbanascent.co.uk 26-30 October Half Term Climbing Club. Get the most out of this half term with rock climbing sessions, daily at 1.30pm, 3pm and 4.30pm, each session lasts 1 hour and costs £12, ages 5 and up. Book ahead to avoid disappointment

Youngstars MultiSports and Activity Camp Balham, Clapham, Dulwich, Parsons Green, Putney and Wimbledon ( 07920 426499 info@young-stars.co.uk : young-stars.co.uk 26-30 October Half Term Holiday Camps. Plenty of fun, games and excitement whilst being introduced to all aspects of sports in an all inclusive and noncompetitive environment. 3-7 years, times and prices vary

DAY CAMPS Activ Camp Barnes, Wandsworth, Wimbledon, Tooting ( 07896 546067 : activcamps.com 26-30 October Half Term Holiday Camps. Funpacked multi-activity camps for children aged 4-14, including dodgeball, quad biking, inflatables, water slides, indoor rock climbing, swimming, crazy crash mats, foam stick hockey, obstacle courses, the list goes on and on… Dates and times vary according to venue, from £37 per day

First Hand Experiences contact@firsthandexperiences.co.uk : 1st-hand.co.uk Two different themed weeks that are sure to inspire and delight!

October 19th-23rd 'The Cauldron' All Saints Church Hall, Fulham immersive outdoor theatre inspired by this summer's incredibly successful 'Wild,Wild Woods' theme. 8:30am – 4.30pm, ages 4-13.

October 26th-30th 'Transformations' Sinclair House School, Fulham, a celebratory dive into the magical autumn landscape including foraging for fungi, picking

Newton Prep School & Lady Margaret School Contact: Henry Lamb, ( 7498 7614, bookings@henrylamb.co.uk : henrylamb.co.uk Half Term Development Tennis camps for ages: 4.5-15 years. 2 weeks - 19th-23rd & 26th-30th October. £220-£240

Kiddikicks Across South West London ( 7937 7965, sarah@kiddikicks.co.uk : kiddikicks.couk

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Throughout October Half Term Holiday Sessions. Kiddikicks (football 18m to 5 years) Kiddisports (multi-sport 18m to 5 years) and Ligasoccer (football Under 8’s) sessions run throughout the holidays. Or arrange a bespoke session (1 to 3 hours) for your player and their friends: pick your sport and they’ll provide the coach, equipment and place

Half-term HOLIDAY activities listings veg and hunting for seeds. Ages 413 (Half days available for under 5s)

Kaleidoscope

Macmillan Merton’s Autumn Fair

South Kensington, Clapham and Wandsworth ( 3651 7870, info@kalscope.co.uk : kalscope.co.uk 19-30 October Half Term Holiday Camps.

Choose from arts and crafts, music, drama, dance, cooking and outdoor exploration in these new holiday camps, plus excursions to parks, farms, forests, museums, castles and more! 8.30-4.30pm, £60 per day

Sacred Heart, Edge Hill : macmillanmerton.com 24th October Use the half term to do some early Christmas shopping! Browse through 30 carefully picked stalls offering unique, quality products for all the family to enjoy, watch floral and wine demonstrations and check out our Café offering delicious, freshly prepared refreshments.

Wild Learning

Geffrye Museum

Wimbledon Common ( 01483 424400 : wild-learning.net 26-30 October Half Term Holiday Camps. Fun, outdoor holiday clubs giving children the chance to play, learn, get muddy and just be kids in a safe, nurturing but wild environment. Ages 5-12, 10.15am-4pm, from £38 per day

FREE ACTVITIES Bank of England Museum Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH ( 7601 4878 : bankofengland.co.uk/museum 26-30 October The Big Draw - Join the fleet!

Come aboard the life-sized boat moored in the Museum and take the helm of the interactive game to discover what the Bank does to keep the economy on a steady course. Design your own boat and win a prize, with the winning designs displayed on the Bank's website. 10am-4.30pm, drop in

136 Kingsland Road E2 8EA ( 7739 9893 : geffrye-museum.org.uk 27-30 October Half Term Holiday Activities.

Paint mugs for hot chocolate, print cushion covers, make beeswax candles and much more. Age 5-16, 10.30am-12.30pm and 2-4pm. Also, Home Sweet Home: Half-Term Nursery Rhyme Time activities for ages 2-5, exploring homes through stories, songs and craft activities, 10.30-11.30am and 12-1pm

The Horniman Museum 100 London Road SE23 3PQ ( 8699 8924 : horniman.ac.uk 26, 27, 29 and 30 October Half Term Family Events.

Fantastic Horniman craft activities this half term inspired by autumn and the Mexican Day of the Dead festival. Includes making Day of the Dead Banners and designing Stick Insects, 11am-2.45pm, drop in 28 October Big Wednesday. A day of activities inspired by the Museum’s Project Tobong exhibition celebrating traditional Javanese theatre in an urban setting. 11am-3.30pm, drop in

First Hand Experiences

Museum of London 150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN ( 7814 5511 : museumoflondon.co.uk 24-31 October Half Term Holiday Fun. Includes Peg Playmates, Wartime Recipes and A Child’s Garden. Make your own peg doll playmate, create a wartime ration book and meet some wartime children. Times and dates vary, ages 5+, drop in

Museum of London Docklands No.1 Warehouse, West India Dock Road E14 4AL ( 7001 9844 : museumoflondon.co.uk/docklands 24-31 October Half Term Holiday Fun. Includes Woven Creations, World War II sing-a-long and playtime stories, and Soap and Suds. Times and dates vary, ages 5+, drop in.

EDUCATION Creative writing workshops ( 7731 0695 or ( 07912610366 : yellowbirdeducation.com Workshops are held in Fulham.

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Yellowbird Education believe that “all children can write creatively, it’s just that often they don’t really understand how to put it all together.”

They lead with structure and grammar; add excitement and a twist - then let natural creativity flourish. The workshops are run by a published author and former Head teacher and are suitable for children aged 6-12. Monday to Friday, 1012.30: 19th October and 26th October.

Explore Learning FREE workshops East Sheen, Fulham, Wandsworth, Merton : explorelearning.co.uk FREE, fun and interactive workshops for children aged five to

14 on Tuesday 27th October. The English and maths tuition provider will be holding maths, arithmetic, problem solving and personalised sessions from 12pm until 4pm. See website for further details.

The free personalised sessions are available for one hour at any time throughout the day.

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Halloween events Battersea Park Children’s Zoo Battersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate, Battersea SW11 4NJ ( 7924 5826 : batterseaparkzoo.co.uk 24 October – 1 November Halloween October Fun. Including a Pumpkin Quiz Trail, The Big Draw, Hedgehog Day and Halloween Fun Day, with Scary Story Time and some seriously Spooooooky Face-painting. Entry fees apply.

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Eltham Palace

Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich SE9 5QE ( 0870 333 1181 : englishheritage.org.uk/visit/places/eltham-palaceand-gardens 26-31 October Halloween Pumpkin Carving. Grab your cloaks and pick out your pumpkin as your little horrors scare themselves silly. Creepy crafts and shocking stories await at eerie Eltham Palace where you show off your spooktacular costumes and frighten the fearless staff. 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm, first come first served. Entry fees apply.

Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA ( 7736 3233 : fulhampalace.org 30 October Halloween Crafts and Pumpkin Parade. Enjoy Halloween themed crafts and face painting.

Bring along your precarved pumpkin for the pumpkin parade around the Bishop’s Park at 4pm. Free (N.B. small charge for face painting), no booking necessary, 2pm-4.30pm.

Horniman Museum and Gardens

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KT8 9AU ( 0844 482 7777 : hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace

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Morden Hall Park Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD ( 8545 6850 : nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park 29-31 October. Halloween Spooktacular Calling all witches and ghouls to the Halloween celebrations in the Stable Yard. Dress in your Halloween best and bring along a pumpkin to carve the scariest face, then join in the hunt for creepy crawlies before creating spooky crafts and searching for clues on a scary trail. 11am-3pm, £4 per child.

Science Museum

100 London Road SE23 3PQ ( 8699 1872 : horniman.ac.uk 31 October and 1 November The Horniman Halloween Fair.

Join in with some seriously spooky storytelling, haunting happenings, creepy creatures, magnificent arts and crafts markets, fiendishly fine food stalls plus lots more.

Come dressed in your favourite Halloween costume and join the Halloween parades taking place throughout the weekend. 10.30am-4.30pm, free entry.

London Eye

Hampton Court Palace

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Pictu re c redit :W ilkin son

Fulham Palace Fun Day ©Fulham Palace Trust

Fulham Palace

31 October Family Ghost Tours. Join the State Apartment Warders for an early evening walking tour where the history of the palace really does come creepily to life! Along the way you’ll discover the stories of ghostly apparitions, paranormal activity and all manner of spooky happenings from the palace’s history. Ages 8-14, adults £14 children £7, phone booking only.

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Westminster Bridge Road SE1 7JB : Londoneye.com 24-31 October. London Eye Witch Academy Join the quest to unlock the Book of Spells! The Witch Academy is back, offering little witches and wizards the chance to master their magical skills by learning spells and spooky facts about London's landmarks on this interactive tour. £16.95 per child, which includes storytelling, a scary goody bag and a spooky ride on the London Eye.

165 Queens's Gate SW7 5HD ( 7942 4242 : sciencemuseum.org.uk 24 October – 1 November Halloween Family Fun with Little Lab of Horrors. Explore some of the Museum’s spookiest objects, dust them off and investigate some scary science. At the Little

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Lab of Horrors you will investigate examples of ghost photography, put noses to the test with some horrific aromas, study shocking static electricity that will make your hair stand on end and find out how to glow in the dark. Suitable for children aged 8 and over.

Somerset House Strand WC2R 1LA ( 7845 4600 : somersethouse.org.uk 31 October Wild Life Drawing - Half Term Halloween Special! This Halloween Somerset House is playing host to a haunting variety of snakes, reptiles and rather large eight-legged friends and foes. Both adults and children can join Jennie of Wild Life Drawing for a lesson in depicting animals from the dark side. 11am-1pm and 2pm4pm in the South Wing, £30 combined ticket per one adult one child.

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Local Fireworks

Bishops Park fireworks Bishops Park, Fulham SW6 3LA ( 8753 5999 : lbhf.gov.uk 6 November – Doors open 6pm, children’s fireworks 7.15pm, main fireworks 8pm. Plus funfair rides and food stalls. Tickets £7 on the door, under 5s free. Advance tickets £5 from Lyric Theatre box office

Battersea Park fireworks Battersea Park SW11 ( 8871 7534 : wandsworth.gov.uk/fireworks 7 November – Marvel at an impressive display of fireworks choreographed to music. Expect traditional Guy Fawkes fun all evening, with food stalls, glow concessions and a bar. Gates open 6pm, bonfire 7.30pm, fireworks 8pm, advance tickets only £6.50-£10, children under 10 need a free ticket

Blackheath fireworks Blackheath, Shooters Hill Road SE3 0TY ( 8314 7321 : lewisham.gov.uk/fireworks 7 November – The Blackheath Fireworks is one of the city's few major displays that remain free to attend, so it's no wonder as many as

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100,000 people turn up each year.

The display kicks off at 8pm, but the event also features a funfair from midday and food and drink stalls from 4.30pm. Free

Morden Park fireworks London Road, Morden SM4 5HE : merton.gov.uk/newsevents/events/fireworks 7 November – Amazing Bonfire Night action at Morden Park, with two firework displays and traditional bonfires. Gates open at 5.15pm, first bonfire lit at 6.30pm, children’s fireworks 6.45pm, second bonfire lit at 8.15pm, fireworks 8.30pm. £8 adults, £6 children, under 4s free.

Tickets on the gate

Crystal Palace fireworks Crystal Palace Park SE19 2AA : crystalpalacefireworks.co.uk 5 November – Not one but two fireworks displays plus a family funfair and stalls selling traditional food and drink. Gates open 6pm, Children’s Show 7pm, featuring less noisy and more colourful fireworks, Adult Show 8.30pm, a grand display set to music and with all the bangs! Funfair runs until 10pm. Tickets in advance £6 adults, £4 children, family ticket £17.80, under 3s free; tickets on the gate £10/£5. Limited car parking £5

Lord Mayor’s Show

Ravenscourt Park fireworks

River Thames, between Waterloo Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge : lordmayorsshow.org 14 November – The Lord Mayors Show celebrates an 800-year tradition with parades, festivities, fireworks and more in this historic London event. The fireworks display starts at 5pm, from a barge moored between Waterloo and Blackfriars bridges. Watch from the banks or grab a prime position on one of the bridges. Admission is free or book a Grandstand seat through the website

London W6 ( 8741 5378 : lbhf.gov.uk 7 November – Gates open 6pm, children’s fireworks 7.15pm, main fireworks 8pm. Expect rockets, bangers, food stalls, rides and more.

Tickets £8 on the day, £6 in advance from Lyric Theatre box office. Kids under 5 free

Wimbledon Park fireworks Wimbledon Park, Park Road SW18 5NR ( 8545 3667 : merton.gov.uk/newsevents/events/fireworks 5 November – Two bonfires, two firework displays and a fantastic fairground. Gates open at 5.15pm, first bonfire lit at 6.30pm, children’s fireworks 6.45pm, second bonfire lit at 8.15pm, fireworks 8.30pm. Hot food, stalls and drinks. Tickets on gate, £8 adults, £6 children, under 4s free

Southwark Park bonfire night & fireworks display Southwark Park, Lower Road SE16 2PA : southwark.gov.uk/south warkpresents/fireworks 5 November – Short and sweet fireworks, plus family entertainment.

Gates open 5.15pm, fireworks display 7pm, free.

Ealing fireworks Ealing Cricket Club, Corfton Road W5 2HS ( 8997 1858 : ealingcc.co.uk 7 November – If you like your fireworks displays to be dramatic and set to rousing music, then head to the Ealing Fireworks Display. With bars, BBQs, mulled wine, candy floss and children’s rides. Gates open at 6pm, display 7.30pm. Prices TBC

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

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FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

Families ‘top five’ this month Half term is on its way! Take a look at our favourite holiday activities and events in venues across the capital during Halloween week.

Battersea Park Children’s Zoo

Firepower Royal Artillery Museum

Battersea Park SW11 4NJ : batterseapark.org 26-30 October Half Term Activities A range of fun events including The Big Draw, an event for kids and grown-ups who love to draw and those who think they can't, plus Hedgehog Day - come and join in the Hedgehog themed activities with Hedgehog arts and crafts, Hedgehog story time and the chance to meet a real hedgehog. Sounds like fun! Admission fees apply.

Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST : firepower.org.uk 27-30 October Call The Medic Visit Firepower during the Halloween half term and train to become a Military Medic. In the Battlefield Triage Centre face painters will decorate you with cuts, scars and arrow wounds, see some of the medical items from the museum's collection brought out specially for this week, and learn how to tie bandages and use stretchers. Then put those skills to the test in Medic Drilling where you race in teams to get your patient across an assault course. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm, £4.50 plus admission.

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National Maritime Museum Park Row, Greenwich SE10 9NF : rmg.co.uk 26-30 October Here Be Dragons The sea is a strange and scary place but here you can learn about the world’s oceans and create incredible monsters from myth and legend in this special workshop, 11.30am-1.30pm and 24pm. Plus, don’t miss Ghost Ship on 31 October - AHOY! has been taken over by ghosts, ghouls and sea monsters. Come in your best fancy dress and join the Maritime Museum for a day of family fun and frights.

Win prizes, take part in spooky activities and listen to scary maritime stories, 11am-4pm

The Wallace Collection

©National Maritime Museum

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Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN : wallacecollection.org 24-30 October Half Term Holiday Activities Include Still Life: Delicious Painting - look at some of the hidden meanings found in still life paintings with artist Alison Kusner. 10.30am-4.30pm, £12 per child, 27 October.

Plus Ready, Steady, Draw! The Big Draw Off inspired by the collection and the Big Draw theme of Every Drawing Tells a Story your team will go head-to head on drawing challenges set by the museum. 11am–1pm and 2.30–4.30pm, 24 October.

And don’t miss Monster Masks - who can make the scariest mask to frighten friends at Halloween? Join artist Agnieszka Arabska to hunt out strange creatures, dragons and monsters from the Wallace Collection’s paintings, armour, vases, clocks and sculptures.

10.30am–12.15pm and 2–4pm, 30 October

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Up, Up and away

Science Museum Exhibition Road, South Kensington SW7 2DD : sciencemuseum.com 25-31 October Half Term Activities Including Up, Up and Away, a high-flying adventure through the clouds in a fun, interactive storytelling event. Hot air balloons, gliders and flying suits will all be explored and brought to life, ages 7 and under. Plus Icy Cool Adventure - explore the wondrous wintry world of Iceland in this fun, interactive storytelling session with erupting volcanoes, giant glaciers and a little bit of imagination, ages 7 and under. And finally Codebuilder – think, build, create! This dynamic workshop explores the wonder and potential of computer programming through a series of practical experiments with mechanical kit. Students will use basic coding language to devise and input procedures, test them, rework them and see the results in action, ages 11 to 14.

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

DIARY DATES See more events in our online

What’s On calendar

NCT Kensington and Chelsea meet up Gambado Chelsea, 7 Townmead Road SW6 2PY : nct.org.uk/branches/kensingtonchelsea Every Wednesday in October A great opportunity to meet other mums with babies under 1. 9.30-11am, £1, show your NCT card to get in.

Macmillan Merton’s Autumn Fair Sacred Heart, Edge Hill : macmillanmerton.com 24th October 10-4pm Come and browse the carefully picked stalls offering unique, quality products for all the family to enjoy, watch floral and wine demonstrations and check out our Café offering delicious, freshly prepared refreshments.

From Friday 6 - Sunday 15 November check out Macmillan Merton’s third annual exhibition in the Norman Plastow Gallery, 26 Lingfield Road SW19. Fantastic, affordable, eclectic mix of paintings & photographs as well as a celebrity wall of postcard art. Macmillan Christmas cards also on sale. FREE entry.

Royal Opera House WC2E 9DD : roh.org.uk Every Sunday in October Family Sundays A regular event for families to 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

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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 informal performances from Royal Ballet dancers, plus interactive singing and dance activities.

12–4pm, £5 adults, £3 children.

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

Putney Embankment Art and Craft Market The Embankment, Putney (Between the Thai Square Restaurant and Thames Place) : facebook.com/ artonputneyembankment 4 October, 1 November 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

Fulham Palace SW6 6EA : fulhampalace.org Every Monday in October The Palace Explorers. For children aged 2-4. £3 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack.

Booking essential, 10.30am-12pm 4 October The Big Draw. Hear stories about characters from the Palace's past and get involved with craft activities inspired by this year's theme 'Every Drawing Tells a Story'. £2, no booking necessary, 2pm-4pm 11 October Apple Day Celebration. With apple displays and tastings, food and drink stalls, children’s activities, baking competition and much more, celebrate Apple Day in the historic Walled Garden. Free, no booking necessary, 11am-3pm 24 October.

Young Archaeologists’ Club.

Meet a real life Osteologist (ancient bones specialist) at this month’s YAC club looking at what Archaeologists learn from prehistoric burial sites.

Ages 8-16, £15, booking essential, 10.30am-12.15pm

Do-re-mi Babies Concerts Barnes, Chelsea, Fulham, Wandsworth : doremibabies.co.uk 6, 8, 15 October, 3, 5 November Inspirational and fun classical concerts. With different musicians, instruments and programmes each

Get Creative Family Arts Festival month there is plenty to inspire your little ones. Babies and toddlers are welcome to crawl, dance, sing, cry, nappy change and more, so you can relax and enjoy some wonderful music. £10 per adult, children free, tickets online or on the door. Dates vary depending on venue.

NCT Clapham Baby First Aid Workshop Kids Unlimited, 119a Chatham Road SW11 6HJ / It's a Kids Thing, 279 Magdalen Road SW18 3NZ : nct.org.uk/clapham 7 and 20 October Practical training and the chance to get ‘hands on’ so you have the skills and the confidence to know what to do in an emergency. 7-10pm, £59, book in advance by emailing parenting@claphamnct.com.

2015 Get Creative Family Arts Festival Across SW London and beyond : familyartsfestival.com 9 October – 1 November The National Family Arts Festival joins forces with BBC’s Get Creative to form the Get Creative Family Arts Festival, offering families an extraordinary range of events and activities, many of which are free. Explore backstage at a theatre or listen to a concert dressed up as your favourite superhero, plus classic children’s stories, fine art, dance, sculpture, music and almost every other art form known to man.

Something for everyone!

First Aid for Life Balham and Westminster : firstaidforlife.org.uk 10, 14 October, 8, 14, 25, 28 November.

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 (First Aid for Life won the

Best Business for Customer Service, were runner ups for the Best Business for Customer Innovation and won the Overall Best Business in London 2015, wow!)

Sky Ride Wandsworth to Richmond Park : goskyride.com 11 October The popular programme of guided bike rides is back! Enjoy organized rides of varying distances and difficulties taking in local landmarks and hidden gems. FREE

NCT Putney & Fulham Cafe at the Cottage, Fulham Football Club, Stevenage Road SW6 6HH. : nctpregnancyandbabycare.com 14 and 28 October 10am–12pm.

Fulham FC coffee morning. Join Debs if you’re new to the area, starting to get out with your baby or just need an excuse for a welldeserved cup of coffee.

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

Mum2Mum Market Nearly New Sale Ricards Lodge High School, Lake Road, Wimbledon SW19 7HB : mum2mummarket.co.uk 17 October, 21 November Buy or sell quality baby and kids goods at this pop-up indoor market.

43 stalls under one roof with thousands of kids bargains at a fraction of the high street price.

Admission £2, kids free, 2-4pm

Geffrye Museum 136 Kingsland Road E2 8EA : geffrye-museum.org.uk 18 October Making Home: Young People’s Take-Over Family Day. Explore how people have decorated their homes through the centuries. The event will include biscuit baking,

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

What’s On Museum of London 150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN : museumoflondon.co.uk 19 and 24 October London's Night Owls Sleepover.

What happens in the museum once the doors close for the night?

Interactive and hands-on activities uncover London's history from the Romans to the Victorians before bedding down for the night. A bright and early breakfast and family friendly film will follow in the morning. 6.45pm–9.40am, age 7-11, £60, book in advance by emailing sleepover@museumoflondon.org.uk

The Baby Show Boom!

London Olympia : thebabyshow.co.uk 23-25 October The leading event for new and expectant parents in the UK, The Baby Show Boom! is a major shopping destination for new and young families. Choose from accessories, food and feeding products, buggies and pushchairs, toys, nursery furniture and more.

From £11.25 if booked in advance, tickets on the door £20

: royalalberthall.com 28 October Experience the unforgettable thrill of a live orchestral performance while watching one of the most acclaimed and popular family films of the past decade. Ratatouille Live in Concert receives its UK premiere with Michael Giacchino’s classic score played live on stage by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. £19.84-£38.20, a limited number of reduced price tickets available for under-16s, kids under 4 go free with a paying adult. Book now!

Storystock 2015 Bush Theatre, 7 Uxbridge Road W12 8LJ : bushtheatre.co.uk / : storystock.co.uk 28-30 October The hugely popular travelling story circus Storystock returns to the Bush Theatre this October, featuring Children's Laureate Chris Riddell. As well as stories, performances, Q&A events, interviews and workshops, there will also be a games night and Literary Quiz for children. Ages 311. Box Office 020 8743 5050, tickets £4-£18

Little Folk with Albo Halloween Special

Little Birdsong Orchestra

Colour House Theatre, Merton Abby Mills, Watermill Way SW19 2RD : colourhousetheatre.co.uk / : littlefolkwithalbo.com

The Music House for Children, St John’s Church Rooms, Landsdowne Crescent, Notting Hill W11 2NN : musichouseforchildren.co.uk 27 October A classical concert for babies with musicians performing a repertoire of traditional and contemporary music. 10.30am, £10 per adult, babies free

Ratatouille Live in Concert

31 October Albo returns to the Colour House for his third season of folk style concerts for kids 0–5 and their

Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore SW7 2AP

families. Enjoy topical songs, special guests, and a treat or two.

Costumes welcome! 10.30am, £5

Clapham Pregnancy & Baby Show Chatham Hall, Northcote Road on Saturday : purepregnancy.london 14th November 2.30-5.30pm FREE ticketed event. Come and meet doulas, therapists and independent midwives along with some hand-picked products.

Sponsored by “Families SW.”

DRAMA See more events in our online

What’s On calendar

The Ambassadors Theatre West Street WC2H 9ND : theambassadorstheatre.co.uk Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays throughout October Wuthering Heights Emily Brontë’s classic tale of love, loss and revenge is stunningly re-imagined by by the National Youth Theatre. A beloved classic adapted for today’s audiences, it’s not to be missed!

Times and dates vary as this production is in rep, prices vary.

The Barbican Theatre Barbican Centre, Silk Street EC2Y 8DS : barbican.org.uk 17 October Gewandhausorchester Leipzig Family Concert - When the moon rises…you learn to fly! A family performance from one of the world’s oldest orchestras, combining music and theatre to follow the fantastical journey of a child’s dream, created with the music of Richard Strauss. Age 6+, 3pm, £10/£20

Battersea Arts Centre Lavender Hill SW11 5TN : bac.org.uk 29-31 October We Dance, Wee Groove Watch, listen, play and explore the four corners of the dance floor as you are guided on a musical journey around the world and to outer space. You’ll surf, you’ll fly, you’ll groove and bop! Age 6 months-5 years, 10.30am and 2.30pm, £7

The Cambridge Theatre Seven Dials, 32-34 Earlham Street WC2H 9HU : uk.matildathemusical.com Throughout October 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.

The Chelsea Theatre 7 World's End Place, Kings Road SW10 0DR : chelseatheatre.org.uk 29-31 October The Magic Word After their sellout show The Princess & The Frog, Let’s All Dance are back with their second gorgeous, classical ballet.

1.30 and 3.30pm, £10/£8 18 October Theatre of Widdershins – The Elves & The Shoemaker This well known and well loved tale has been re-heeled by Theatre of Widdershins in their own inimitable style. Beautifully crafted sets and puppets, a kaleidoscope of miniature shoes and a comic mouse all make this show a magical mustsee. Age 3+, 11am and 2pm, £9

The Chickenshed Theatre Chase Side, Southgate N14 4PE : chickenshed.org.uk 4 October Family Fun Day Their annual autumn fundraiser is now bigger and better as the whole family is

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

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plant pot decorating a treasure hunt and more for families and young people. All ages, 12pm–4.30pm, FREE

encouraged to come and get involved at the new Family Fun Day! FREE 7-24 October Two by Jim Cartwright Over the course of a single evening in a typical local pub, prepare to become intimately acquainted with your less than genial hosts and the colourful characters who regularly pull up a stool. Chickenshed’s adaptation of this stunningly fresh and relevant piece will expertly play on Cartwright’s renowned use of language and humour. Ages 12+, £12/£8

The Colour House Theatre Watermill Way SW19 2RD : colourhousetheatre.co.uk Every Saturday in October Little Folk with Albo Popular Wimbledon folksinger Al Clogston performs a series of Saturday morning concerts for kids. Albo will present a mixture of folk songs, American camp songs, traditional children’s songs, sing-alongs and original songs for kids. 10.30am, £5 Every Saturday and Sunday to 8 November The Wizard of Oz Travel with Dorothy along the Yellow Brick Road all the way to the Emerald City. With the Wicked Witch of

the West hot on her trail, Dorothy will need all the help she can get from her new found friends! 2pm and 4pm, £10/£12

Lyric Hammersmith Lyric Square, Kings Street W6 0QL : lyric.co.uk 10 October Arnold's Big Adventure Taking place in a special bell tent, Arnold’s Big Adventure features shadow puppetry, original music to sing along to and plenty of thrilling surprises along the way… 11am, 1pm and 2.30pm, £8 17 October The Dragon's Tale An original take on George and the Dragon, told in flashback by the Dragon himself accompanied by a very special Damsel in Distress on a hurdygurdy. 11am and 1pm, £8 24 October Olive & the Dream Train A

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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 rollercoaster ride through the mindboggling mysteries of everyday life… 11am and 2pm, £8 27-31 October Goldilocks and the Three Bears Stuff and Nonsense return with a thrilling adaptation of everyone's favourite bearytale. A brilliant mix of ingenious puppetry, music and mischievous moments. 11am and 1pm, £8 7 November The Boy Who Never Grew Up With live music, puppetry and fun this is a show of imagination and magic for anyone who wishes to never ever grow up. 11am and 1pm, £8

New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG : atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre 30-31 October The Nutcracker Experience the superb artistry of the renowned Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet on their first UK tour. Combining classical training and technique, the company’s magical performances of the best loved Russian ballets have won them international acclaim.

From £20.40 2-7 November Hairspray the Musical It’s Baltimore, 1962 where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV. From £17.90 10-14 November Annie Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire. From £15

The Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB : polkatheatre.com 3-4 October Thumbelina There was once a girl so small she could float on a lily pad and ride on the back of a dragonfly…

Follow Hans Christian Andersen’s extraordinary tale of a girl no bigger than a thumb and her adventures with a frog, mouse, mole and swallow who help her on her journey. Age 3-5, £12/£9 7-11 October Hurricane Boy A charming show combining physical storytelling and live music. Age 5-1 1, £13.50/£10 From 14 October Beasty Baby Mayhem and laughter await around every corner as three people embark on a wild adventure to bring up a very mischievous and totally lovable child. Ages 3-6, £12/£9

The Chelsea Theatre 7 World's End Place, Kings Road SW10 0DR ( 7352 1967 : chelseatheatre.org.uk Have you discovered this gem of a theatre in SW London? The wonderful Chelsea Theatre is a vibrant hub in the heart of Chelsea, combining a thriving children’s programme of shows with an exciting, contemporary performance space.

This season, their productions for children include Three Little Pigs, The Elves and the Shoemaker and The Town and The Country Mouse to name a few, plus the exciting Chelsea Theatre Festival and their Not Television Festival.

Noisy Oyster – Three Billy Pigs

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On top of that, the theatre runs a number of classes and activities for kids – check out their Ballet and Tap for Tiny Tots and Older Kids Too, designed to introduce children to the basics of dance and encourage their natural ability and enjoyment. Classes run on Saturdays, £6 per lesson, with free trials available. They also have a programme from La Sylvaine Ballet School on Saturdays too, teaching ballet, modern and tap to all ages and abilities.

Why not host your next children’s party here? You can treat your little monkeys to a show and then entertain them in one of the theatre’s party rooms. And don’t miss their Chelsea Theatre Family Film Club, with free membership earning you exclusive invitations to family friendly events and activities including crafts, games, competitions, prizes and face painting. Sign up now at : chelseatheatre.org.uk/project/family-film-club-mailing-list.

15-18 October The Sagas of Noggin the Nog In the Lands of the North, where the black rocks stand guard against the cold sea, in the dark night that is very long, the men of the Northlands sit by their great log fires and they tell a tale… of Noggin the Nog! Ages 4-8, £13.50/£10 23 October – 8 November The Bear Join Tilly and her furry friend for a magical adventure as Raymond Briggs’s beloved book comes to life with dazzling puppetry, delicious music and dreamy storytelling. Ages 4-8, £13.50/£10

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice, Blomfield Road W9 2PF : puppetbarge.com 24-30 October The Three Pigs and the Wolf plus Captain Grimey A lively show breathing new life into well known characters. 11am and 3pm, £8.50-£12

The Royal Albert Hall Kensington Gore SW7 2AP : royalalberthall.com 24 October Back to Baby – Strictly Mozart A very special family concert where your little ones can listen, dance, roam about, and feed while you enjoy exhilarating performances by outstanding musicians Katie Stillman (violin) and Miaomiao Yu (piano).

11am 25 October Comedy Academy 4 Kids Calling all budding comedians! If you’re aged 7–13 and fancy a chance to hone your stand-up skills, then the Comedy Academy is for you. This 2-hour workshop gives the next generation of comics a chance to try out ideas and come up with sketches, before giving a short performance at the end of the session. 11am, 12.30pm 28 October Ratatouille in Concert Pixar’s 2007 animated comedy adventure with live orchestral accompaniment.

The film tells the story of Remy, a food-loving rat who risks his life in his pursuit of fine Parisian food, and the partnership he forges with a hapless young kitchen worker.

2pm, 6pm

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What’s On

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Rosebery Avenue EC1R : sadlerswells.com 13-15 October Birmingham Royal Ballet — Swan Lake Ballet's greatest love story returns in Birmingham Royal Ballet's lavish production. This romantic fable of ill-fated passion, powerfully illuminated by Tchaikovsky's legendary score, has bewitched audiences for generations. Age 5+, from £12

Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8PX : cadoganhall.com/event/southbanksinfonia-family-concert 17 October Family Concert Have you ever wondered what happens when an orchestra tries to play without a conductor? In this family concert, Southbank Sinfonia will be doing exactly that as the musicians themselves take control. 11am, £25 family ticket.

Museums & Galleries See more events in our online

What’s On calendar

The British Museum Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG : britishmuseum.org 10 October Make a Mosaic Mask Use tablets to design your own mosaic masks inspired by the Aztec gods. Print your finished mask to take home and wear. 11am-4pm FREE 17 October Fun Family Photos Learn green screen technology skills to create a picture of your family interacting with the Museum’s collection.

11am-4pm FREE

October 2015

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18 October Exploring Egyptian Mummies Explore digital skills used by Museum scientists to uncover the secrets of the ancient Egyptians, and see if you can make your own Museum discovery. 11am-4pm FREE 25 October Green Screen Geeks Become an ancient Greek athlete and use green screen technology to become part of Museum objects. 11am-4pm FREE To 1 November Day of the Dead Family Festival Come to the Museum to celebrate the Day of the Dead – the vibrant Mexican festival where families gather to remember their dead.

11am-4pm FREE 26-30 October The World of the Celts A week of family activities all about the Celts. Make something to take home, contribute to a giant Celtic art installation and listen to ancient Celtic tales. 11am-4pm FREE

Firepower Royal Artillery Museum Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST : firepower.org.uk 31 October Ghost Tours - Family Friendly An evening of (not too scary) ghost stories and a tour of Firepower for families. At the end of the tour warm the chills away with bangers and mash or a hot cup of tea, all included in the price of the tour, in a building inhabited by four of museum ghosts. 6pm, £12 Throughout October Their own Words A new exhibition about the Great War bringing to life artillerymen of different nations, through extracts from their diaries, letters home and photographs.

Foundling Museum 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ : foundlingmuseum.org.uk 27 October The Big Draw: Every Drawing Tells a Story Look through a viewfinder to another world and visualise what’s hidden in the art of the past. Bring the paintings and past of the Foundling Hospital alive through a collaborative and experimental drawing with artist Daniel Wallis. 10.30am-1pm and 24.30pm, free for children and up to two accompanying adults.

FREE 30 October Victorian Stereoscopes Led by artist Isobel Manning, explore the use of Victorian stereoscopes.

Photograph your own stereographic images inspired by the exhibition The Fallen Woman and create a stereoscope to view your images in 3D. 10.30am–12pm, 1–2.30pm and 3-4.30pm FREE

The Museum Of London London Wall EC2Y 5HN : museumoflondon.org.uk Every Sunday in October Museum Explored Join one of the Museum's Hosts and explore the galleries through fun, hands-on activities. 12-2pm FREE

Natural History Museum Cromwell Road SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk 23 October and 7 November Dino Snores Discover what really happens at the Museum when the staff and visitors have gone home.

Ages 7–11, 7pm, ends 9.50am the following day, £60/£54 members

Natural History Museum

V&A Museum of Childhood Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA : museumofchildhood.org.uk Throughout October The Alice Look Get a whole new view of Lewis Carroll’s heroine in this display marking the 150th anniversary of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

FREE

The Wallace Collection Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN : wallacecollection.org 4 October The Little Draw Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities. Come and meet Little Draw artist Millie Nice, an illustrator with a playful approach to history of art and an interest in museum spaces. 1.30-4.30pm FREE

DAYS OUT See more events in our online

What’s On calendar

Alice Holt Forest Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 4LS : forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt 28 October

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Sadler's Wells

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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 Wonderful, Weird and Wacky Walking Staffs Whether you are hiking through forests or across mountain ranges, as a keen explorer you are bound to need a trusty walking staff. Make your own personalised staff from the trees of Alice Holt. Age 10+, booking essential, 10am-12noon, £10 28 October Woodland Walk and Tall Tales Gathering at dusk by the classroom, you'll wind your way through the trees experiencing the forest at night. Bring your torch or lantern and join the adventure. Limited numbers so book early, age 6+, 56pm, £2 29 October Little Art in the Autumn Woodland Join the fun with lots of arty activities from Mud painting and Clay figures, Seed art and Leaf and Stick mobiles to Charcoal and Bark rubbings. Age up to 8, pre-book, 10am-12noon, £6

Brixton Windmill Windmill Gardens, end of Blenheim Gardens SW2 5EU : brixtonwindmill.org Every weekend in October Windmill Tours 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.

Chelsea Physic Garden 66 Royal Hospital Road SW3 4HS : chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 11 October Drop-in Family Activities An assortment of drop-in activities for families. Free on entry to the garden (£6.60 for children and £9.90 for adults)

Cutty Sark King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT : rmg.co.uk/cuttysark 28-29 October Damru Drums Make and decorate a traditional drum inspired by the ship’s voyages to India and the cargoes she collected there.

11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm.

Admission fees apply.

26-28 October Every Cargo Tells a Story Be inspired by different cargo carried aboard Cutty Sark to help create a collaborative artwork as part of The Big Draw. 11.30am-1.30pm and 24pm. Admission fees apply.

30 October Ghost Ships and Spooky Shadows Create a spooky shadow puppet show with ghost-ships, sea monsters and your own Halloween puppet to take home. 11.30am1.30pm and 2-4pm. Admission fees apply.

Dulwich Picture Gallery Gallery Road SE21 7AD : dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk From 14 October The Amazing World of M. C. Escher The first major UK show of work by the iconic graphic artist will highlight Escher’s supreme skill as a master draughtsman presenting images which made him one of the most popular artists of the 20th century. £14, children free.

31 October Halloween Harry Potter An evening of themed gallery tales, M. C. Escher's amazing worlds, an art workshop and a showing of 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'.

6-10pm, £15/£24 30 October – 1 November The Iron Genie Watch Anita

Chowdry's harmonograph create Spirograph-like drawings before your eyes. Explore the instrument's mechanisms and create your own work to take home.

FREE

Isis Education Centre Hyde Park W2 2UH : supporttheroyalparks.org/explore /isis_education_centre 27 October Nature Explorer- Wild Photography A full day of guided outdoor games and activities for children aged 8–11. 10am-3pm, £30 28-29 October Discovery Day - Halloween From exploring the nature trail to getting into the Halloween spirit and taking part in a host of spectacularly spooky activities, there is something for everyone. 11am-3pm, drop in FREE

HMS Belfast The Queen's Walk SE1 2JH : iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast 24 October – 1 November Dazzle Camouflage How do you hide a ship at sea? Learn how dazzle camouflage was used to keep HMS Belfast from being discovered by other ships and take part in an animation workshop and create your own camouflage. 11am– 12.30pm and 2–4pm. Admission fees apply.

The London Wetlands Centre Queen Elizabeth, Barnes SW13 9WT : wwt.org.uk 14 October Star Gazing Evening A beginners guide to the galaxy. Expand your horizons by discovering more about the stars and planets in our solar

system and the galaxies beyond. See some of the wonders of the universe such as Jupiter and its moons, Venus and a galaxy about 10 million light years away. The evening starts at 6.30pm and will last approximately 2 hours. £10, 6.308.30pm, £10 18 October Birding Bonanza A fun bird watching bonanza in the Headley Discovery Hide. 9am-4pm, admission fees apply.

Morden Hall Park Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD : nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hallpark 21 October Nelson's Paradise Merton Tour Join a guided walk starting at South Wimbledon station and discover more about the story of Nelson and Lady Hamilton's life in Merton. You'll stop off along the way for afternoon tea in the Potting Shed cafe finishing at Morden Lodge. Booking essential, 2.30pm-4.30pm, £9 (includes tea and cake) Throughout October.

Exhibitions: 50 Things To Do Before You're 11 3/4 Discover which of the many 50 things you can do in Morden Hall Park.

FREE

Orleans House Gallery Riverside, Twickenham TW1 3DJ : richmond.gov.uk/home/services/ arts/ orleans_house_gallery Every Friday in October See Saw Weekly drop-in sessions for under-fives and their carers, including music, play materials, soft play, creative activities, stories and rhyme time. 10.30am-12.30pm, £6/£3 siblings

What’s On

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CHILDCARE

Sea Life Aquarium London County Hall SE1 7PB : visitsealife.com/london 17 October – 1 November 'Hallow-Marine' Spot some of the scariest creatures in the ocean this ‘Hallowmarine’ as The SEA LIFE London Aquarium puts the spotlight on some bogey-fish of the deep. Keep your eyes peeled for spooky images dotted on displays around the attraction revealing where these elusive bogey-fish dwell.

Admission fees apply.

Face Painting & Balloon Modelling

HEALTH

Contact Susie 07814 925462 www.magicaldesigns.co.uk

MUSIC Clown Pirate Jester Wizard

www.charlietheclown.co.uk

07808 732 390 Astronaut, Magician, Explorer

PARTIES

PIANO TUITION

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

Home visits possible.

Mark Lester MA, CT ABRSM

020 8870 7830 www.marklester.biz

Piano Lessons

Experienced piano teacher based in Streatham Hill, SW2 07795 625 564 info@tommyharrington.co.uk tommyharrington.co.uk

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Online directory • Playgroups, one o’clocks & children’s centres • Schools & nurseries

Ly d i e C h i l d r e n’ s Pa r t i e s

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0207 622 2540

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

ELOCUTION Public Speaking Speech & Drama Individual Tuition

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

October 2015

Clare Price. LGSM, ALAM (020) 7735 3156 clareprice@tiscali.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 Putney Wimbledon www.stagecoach.co.uk

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