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ISSUE 106 MARCH/APRIL 2016 www.familieswest.co.uk

Families West 路 PO Box 32231 路 London W5 1JR 路 Tel: 020 8930 4707 路 Email: familieswest@yahoo.co.uk

Photo credit: Moira Lizzie Photography

In this issue: A very warm welcome to the second issue of 2016.

What a relief it is when you wake up on a Spring morning and there is at least a glimmer of light. While we may not be basking in full sunshine just yet, the feeling to go out and start exploring again after the long (wet) winter months is almost irresistible for children and adults alike. It's a perfect time to grab this copy of Families West and start planning some activity. What a great choice we bring you this issue. Enjoy!

In this issue News & Views Page 2 Childcare Page 4 Education Page 6 The Great Easter Egg Hunt/Easter workshops and What’s On in west London Page 14 Classified Section Page 23 Clubs & Classes Page 24 Like us on Facebook Families West Magazine

‘Families West is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. The contents of Families West 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. 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.’ Designed by Martin Driscoll. Email: martindriscoll@yahoo.com Printed by The MANSON Group Limited, 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road Industrial Estate, St Albans AL3 6PZ. www.mansongroup.co.uk

news & views New family club in West London VeryFairyLand is a magical destination for young families; a family club with a restaurant, play area, and fairy tale adventure tours. While you have a relaxing meal with friends and family at the restaurant, Hands in Pasta, your children can have great fun playing in a specially designed play area, with spectacular play houses set up as a beauty salon, candy shop, library, car garage, magic trees and plenty of toys. Children from ages 2 to 8 years old will enjoy taking part in this 45 minutes' fairy tale Adventure Tour, led by a professional actor. And if you are looking for a venue for your child's next party, this may just fit the bill. Their skilled animators organise amazing birthday parties and other special family occasions. VeryFairyLand is at 2 Holcombe Street, Hammersmith, London W6 9JR. Call them on 020 8748 5000 to find out more. www.veryfairyland.com

Lemon Tree Montessori and Daycare St Matthew’s Montessori is opening a sister school in Ealing Broadway. The Lemon Tree Montessori and Daycare will follow the Montessori ethos of learning and provide a warm and nurturing environment for children aged 6 months to five years. The purpose-built premises has been specifically designed to enhance learning whilst creating a “home from home environment.” The school will operate all year round from 8am to 6pm. Lemon Tree Montessori & Daycare will take a holistic approach to the children’s development so that all aspects of the child are catered for. “A stimulating and safe setting, coupled with qualified and experienced staff, form the basis of our unique approach.” The nursery will open this spring. To register your interest please call 07956 228 959 or email: info@stmatthewsmontessori.com

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March/April 2016

news & views area. This trail is completely free to download from their website www.chiswickpier.org.uk/home/ news-and-events/new-the-cpt-river-trail/. But no peeking at the answers until you’ve finished! For further information on the Pier and how to get there, contact the Chiswick Pier Trust on: 020 8742 2713. www.chiswickpier.org.uk

Parents campaign on school admissions criteria

Free Thames Trail from the Chiswick Pier Trust Keep fit and find out more about the river at Chiswick. How much do you know about the Thames Path from Chiswick Pier to Furnivall Gardens? The Chiswick Pier Trust are putting you to the test with their new Heritage Trail - perfect for anyone wishing to go for a walk with a difference. This hour-long walk from Chiswick Pier, Corney Reach to Hammersmith Bridge is not only beautiful, but also informative as it tests your knowledge of the area. Do you know, for instance, the name of the famous artist of The Rake’s Progress and Marriage-à-la-mode who is buried at St. Nicholas’ Church? Or which celebrated poet lived in Mawson’s buildings? Chiswick Pier Trust’s Thames Trail provides a wonderful opportunity for families, visitors and locals to explore and discover the hidden histories of the

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The schools admission watchdog has said it will crack down on ‘vexatious complaints’ to faith schools from secularist campaign groups. The groups have made several objections to the manner in which faith schools refuse students, without fully disclosing their admissions criteria. Education secretary Nicky Morgan says that public money is being wasted by the complaints and that the new rules will make it “Easier for parents to have a say.” The Schools Adjudicator Elizabeth Passmore says that handling complaints against school admission policies from those with “No connection in terms of seeking a place for their child” is “not good use of an adjudicator’s time and public money.” However, the National Secular Society has suggested that some parents do not wish to make a complaint personally but turn to a group such as theirs to help them. Their spokesman Stephen Evans says that the new rules will allow faith schools to break admission rules with impunity.

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Entries open for Ealing Half Marathon’s Mini Mile The Ealing Mini Mile takes place on Ealing Half Marathon race day, which this year is on Sunday 25th September and starts at 9.15 am, fifteen minutes after the half marathon. The first Ealing Mini Mile took place in 2013 and has become a popular event in the calendar for young runners of all levels aged 6 – 16 who want to be a part of the race day atmosphere and experience the crossing of the finish line of a big race. This race sells out each year and anyone wishing to take part should sign up as soon as possible. The runners cover a one mile route around Ealing’s Lammas Park where the race and charity village are located. A total of 400 places are available and the age categories are 6-11 and 12-16 years. There will be prizes for the winners of the different age categories and every runner gets their finish time. The entry fee for the Ealing Mini Mile is £7.50 per child which includes a medal and a t-shirt for all finishers. http://www.ealinghalfmarathon.com/ealing-mini-mile

childcare - Separation anxiety

How to help your child - and you cope with being apart

It can be very upsetting for a parent when their child screams and cries as they try to leave them with someone else, whether it is at a nursery, with a child minder or relative. This distress at leaving a parent is called separation anxiety and it is more extreme than just being clingy.

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All babies, at some point or other in their development, are likely to experience separation anxiety in some format. It is very common and completely normal. It can happen in phases (sometimes very short ones) and will not last forever. Babies have to learn the ability to trust so when a parent 'disappears' if they haven’t yet learned to trust, they take it as a fearful or threatening situation. Child psychologists liken it to babies using their Stone Age instincts. Little ones don’t instinctively know they are safe at nursery school or with Aunty Jane. To them, when mum walks out of the door, they could be eaten by tigers! Of course we know their tears and tantrums are misplaced, but that’s not to say that it isn’t a difficult thing for a parent to witness and cope with. Nobody wants to think that their child is panicking and upset when they are being left with someone different or somewhere new. At what age does separation anxiety affect children? Separation anxiety often starts at around the age of eight months and usually improves around the one year mark when children are starting to toddle around more actively and have lots on their mind to keep them distracted and entertained. However, the anxiety sometimes returns at around the age of two, when children become more aware of their own independence, the world around them and their feelings.

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How to cope with separation anxiety A baby who has separation anxiety needs to be constantly and convincingly reassured that your absence does not mean you have gone forever. The only way to prove this is to leave her and come back again. There is one school of thought that playing the age-old game of peek-a-boo developed from a need to prove to babies that mum can disappear... and come back again. One thing is for sure; parents can’t give up their plans or skip going to work because of their child’s tears. Separation is something children have to learn to cope with. It’s all part of their emotional journey.

...Nobody wants to think that their child is panicking and upset when they are being left with someone different or somewhere new... There are some practical things you can do to help if your child is showing signs of separation anxiety: • Your baby may be comforted by a soft toy or blanket which they associate with you • Try to time your leaving spells when your baby is awake and alert. If she is tired, hungry or grouchy then her tears could get out of hand • Practice leaving your child for short spells (15 minutes at a time to start with) with a friend or relative

• Try to leave your baby with only a small number of regular people and keep her surroundings as familiar as possible • If you know in advance which child minder you will be using, invite her over a couple of times to meet your baby with you around or if your baby will be going to a nursery, pay a few short visits there with her before she starts there • Have a ‘bye bye’ routine so saying or waving bye bye to you is a fun thing • Never sneak away when she is not looking • Always reassure her you will be returning • If she is old enough to understand explain you will return “after her nap” or “after her teatime.” Give her a time frame to recognise. BUT only if you are sure you can stick to it! • When you’ve said goodbye, GO. Don’t nip back or lurk around watching her unless you are absolutely certain you won’t be spotted.

Emma’s Diary is the UK’s most trusted and influential pregnancy and baby channel. Working in partnership with The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) for more than 23 years, they provide parents-to-be and new parents with the very best medical and practical information. Visit: www.emmasdiary.co.uk

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childcare

Visit us online at: www.familieswest.co.uk for lots of things to do, places to go and see regularly updated family related articles.

Learning through play the Little Stars way… Little Stars is a new independent day nursery providing childcare that meets the need of each individual child and their family. We understand that the importance of the early years in a child’s general development cannot be over-emphasised. Little Stars Nursery opened on 7th September 2015, providing childcare for 2-5 year olds between 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday. For more information please feel free to contact us at: littlestarsnurseryw3@gmail.com Tel: 020 8896 9500 Holy Family Parish Hall · Vale Lane · London W3 0DY www.littlestarsealing.co.uk

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Baby’s development milestones Learn how your baby will grow and change in her first year... As your newborn ‘uncurls’ from the foetal position she will stretch out her body and her muscles will begin to strengthen. At first she will have no control over her head, but as her neck muscles become stronger she will start to lift her head and be able to hold it for a few seconds at a time. You can help to encourage this by giving her short periods of time on her tummy. By three months she will probably be holding her head up quite steadily. Rolling around Once your baby can control her head she will begin to move her body - first from side to side and then from back to front, or front to back. At first these movements are accidental, but your baby will soon realise that they allow her a different view of the world and she will practise them over and over again until she's able to control them. Getting ready to crawl By the time she’s four or five months old your baby will be able to lift her head, shoulders, arms and legs off the floor when you put her down on her front. These new movements are the early stages of crawling. Although she won't be going anywhere yet, she'll keep practising until she is able to move herself, either

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forwards or backwards, probably at around seven or eight months. By the end of her first year she'll probably be on her feet, 'cruising' round the furniture. Once she can stand it won't be long before she begins to walk unaided. Sitting up This requires a different set of movements and it’ll probably be around eight months before your baby can sit unaided and can reach out for things. Before this, once she has neck control, you can prop her up surrounded by cushions. This way, if she topples over she doesn't hurt herself. Developing other senses Your baby needs plenty of sensory experiences, such as touch and sound, in order to develop her senses. Playing soundtracking games, using rattles and toys that make a noise, will help her to learn how to locate different sounds. ‘Feely’ toys that your baby can press, stroke and crinkle, as well as those with different textured surfaces, will help her find out about touch. During these early months your baby will also begin to develop hand-eye co-ordination and manipulative skills. She will be attracted to bright primary colours

and the sharp contrast of black and white patterns. A mobile hung over the cot, a baby gym with toys hanging from the bars that she can reach out for and a safety mirror placed where she can see herself, will give hours of entertainment. Choosing toys Any toys your baby has should always be appropriate to her age. Toys for older children will be too complicated and may have small parts which could be dangerous to a young

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baby, while toys that are too young will quickly become boring. Libraries often have toys that can be borrowed, but do sterilise anything that may end up in your baby’s mouth. Emma’s Diary is the UK’s most trusted and influential pregnancy and baby channel. Working in partnership with The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) for more than 23 years, they provide parents-to-be and new parents with the very best medical and practical information. Visit: www.emmasdiary.co.uk

Skincare for kids We’ve triaged them, so you don’t have to... some of the common skin problems parents encounter Treat at home • Dry skin Apply unperfumed, gentle moisturiser and use wash products specifically designed for kids, the more natural, the better. Most of the lotions and creams you’ll find are based on petroleum jelly but if you’d prefer a more natural option, there are lots of gentle oil-based products available. Just remember that essential oils can also irritate. Plain coconut oil works well. Avoid: olive oil, especially for babies. It’s not great for the skin barrier (so might lead to a nastier skin condition). Try: oats in the bath (put them in a knotted popsock to keep them from turning it into porridge) for a cut-price skin soother.

Keep an eye on • Eczema Start by using lots - and I mean lots - of gentle, un-fragranced moisturiser (see if you can get this on prescription). But if you spot cracking or other signs of infection, get to the doctor, as a topical steroid cream may be needed on prescription. Avoid: using over-the-counter aqueous cream as a moisturiser, as it can irritate. It’s designed for the bath. Try: a quick body-search. If your child has five palm’s worth of eczema, it’s likely to be more than just a ‘mild’ case. • Warts and verrucas When treating them, make sure the product you buy is suitable for children - check with the pharmacist. These usually look nastier than they are but if they become bothersome or change in some way, see the GP. Avoid: putting wart treatments which contain salicylic acid on a

Article by Radhika Holmstrom child’s face. Try: putting a little piece of duct tape over the wart/verruca. Every six days, remove and soak the wart, and scrub off dead skin with an emery board. It may do the job naturally… Take to the doctor • Impetigo These itchy sores aren’t too serious but they’re unpleasant and highly contagious, so get to the GP for antibiotic creams or tablets, which will clear them up quickly.

children, visit the NHS website and search for skin problems in babies: http://www.nhs.uk/ conditions/skin-rash-babies

• Psoriasis This isn’t always serious - it’s the result of a build-up of skin cells but it can be and of course the flaky patches can be quite upsetting to live with too. The recommendation is that you see the GP, who should be able to offer treatments from creams to UV light therapy. For more advice and tips on dealing with skin problems in

Radhika Holmstrom has a strong background in health journalism. She has also written for many consumer and specialist magazines. Whilst she focuses on health, parenting and learning issues, she has also written widely on environmental and ethical issues. She is a visiting lecturer at Middlesex University, lecturing to undergraduates and postgraduates on feature-writing.

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Are we THERE yet? Our top tips on how to survive long car journeys with the kids By Sally J. Hall

Travelling long distances with kids can be tricky. They get bored, they need entertaining, they argue and they think even a short journey is the longest ever! Here are some ways to get there without going grey in the process. Create a magical destination If the children know where you’re going and what they’ll find when you get there, they can be more enthusiastic about the journey. Find out facts about your destination, make them a booklet they can fill in with things they spot and have a ‘prize’ when they get there for being good. Pack Snacks Kids get bored if energy levels drop, so pack snacks they can nibble on along the way; rice cakes, crackers, crisps and mini sandwiches are ideal. However, let the front passenger control these so they don’t eat them all at once. Always save sweet treats until last and make sure drinks are in spill-proof cups. Play Games Why not play the spotting game. The kids win points for every animal they notice - on pub signs, shops, etc. - and the winner gets to pick what you spot next. If you’re feeling really generous, you could offer a small prize.

tablets at home, this is when they are worth their weight in gold. Give each child their favourite film, and of course headphones. If you only have one tablet, you can buy an inexpensive converter for two sets of headphones. Then you don’t have to hear “Let It Go” fifteen times. If they are getting really stir crazy, classical music can calm them. Try Mozart clarinet and string concertos, ballet music, Radio 3 or Classic FM.

• Take a change of clothing. • If your child gets car sick, encourage them to look at the horizon and pack a few plastic bags!

Know where you’re going Make sure you have directions to where you’re going or invest in a Satnav. If you don’t have one, you can use a map package on your smartphone, or alternatively get a helping hand from the AA (aa.com).

• Take some colouring books and pens or pencils, sticker books and games.

Other Essential Tips: • Travel at a time when your children would usually be sleeping or napping.

• Allow more time than you need to allow for traffic jams.

• Take plenty of loo breaks and a portable potty. • Take exercise breaks to allow them to let off steam. Some service stations have play rooms.

• Take pillows and blankets. • Keep a mini first aid kit in the car.

Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to ‘Watch My Baby Grow’ (Dorling Kindersley).

You can also have endless discussions about whether mythical creatures like dragons count or not. Alternatively, spot coloured cars yellow and blue are unusual enough to be worth it. Play Music or Films Whilst you might restrict the use of

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education

Article By Justine Crow

How to Help Your Child Enjoy

Bedtime Reading

We’ve all been there - it’s bedtime, everybody is tired and a little grumpy because homework, bath-time and tooth-brushing all have to happen when both the grown-ups and the children are at their weariest. So perhaps the best answer to create a calm environment after the mayhem is a good bedtime story. It’s never to early to start a bedtime story routine. Babies are soothed by the sound of your voice, so make sure you have a comfy chair in the nursery to settle down in. Soon, your baby will learn to recognise this as their bedtime story moment. When they are a bit older, reading together is not just an opportunity to bond with your child but also to help establish and maintain a good bedtime routine, which is vital in getting the kids off to sleep at a sensible hour. For older children, this is a time to explore your child’s imagination, as story time becomes a shared time of fantasy. Consistency is good and a regular treat at bedtime gives your child something to look forward to. It also does no harm at all to enforce the idea of reading as a positive thing for your child. There’s no harm in choosing your child’s favorite book for their first story time. However, ensure the end of the story is calm and soothing to help your little one drift off. As your child grows you’ll find storytime becomes longer. This is a great opportunity to encourage your child to listen for longer periods of time without interrupting. Soon you will be able to choose long stories and break them up into

manageable pieces or chapters and leave another exciting instalment for the next night. As they grow older and can read by themselves, you can encourage their interest in a story by reading the first part to them at bedtime, then allow them to continue the story by themselves the next day. Try to find time to discuss the plot and the characters to ensure they understand what’s going on and to explain any ‘big’ words they may not have come across before; This is a great way to improve vocabulary. As the books become more difficult, you’ll find the number of illustrations also decrease. However, it’s important to recognize that images are still important to your child’s understanding and imagination. By the time your child is able to read lots of text without any help from you, it’s time to step back and allow them to read what they choose for themselves before going to sleep. Be prepared for the fact that they may have different tastes to you and their siblings. It’s still a good idea to set a time limit before lights out even now, as otherwise you might find your child still gripped by their book at midnight! Don’t abandon the idea of reading together completely; every so often, you could offer to finish a chapter for them to save their tired eyes; they’ll use that time for their own thoughts and fantasies.

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Bedtime stories are also great for educating your child or sharing news with them. For example, a good story can encourage them to learn to swim or potty train and even welcome a new sibling. Many books on subjects such as these have been used by parents to get over tricky stages. Local bookshops and libraries can advise you on the best titles to choose depending on the event or situation and many online book companies categorise books by subject, so it should be quite easy to find what you need. Have a quick read through the book yourself before sharing it with your child to make sure it says what you want it to. Having time to ourselves with a great book is something that adults really appreciate and once they’ve got the hang of it, children also benefit from winding down with something to read. In the words of Dr Suess: “Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.” Justine Crow is the author of ‘The Little Book of Nits’ published by Bloomsbury. A parent of three, she owns her own bookshop with her partner, The Bookseller Crow on Hill, 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.

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education

Article By Liat Hughes Joshi

How to boost your child’s Literacy and numeracy are central to your child’s learning in primary school and will underpin many of the subjects they’ll cover during their secondary education. They are of course crucial to later life too. Whether they’re already acing their algebra or still struggling with basic sums, here are some ideas on how to give these key skills a boost. A little extra learning at home can work wonders... but don’t go overboard! Realistically, it isn’t always possible for teaching staff in busy classrooms of 30 pupils to provide the one-on-one attention children benefit from - perhaps looking at improving handwriting or listening to reading daily. By sitting with your child and working on specific areas, you can make a huge difference to their attainment. Keep it sensible though even just ten or fifteen minutes a day for Key Stage 1 children can have an impact, yet still leaves hours and hours for Lego

literacy and numeracy

building, climbing trees or playing with friends. Find out about the methods their school uses to ensure consistency If you want to do some work at home, it will help your son or daughter greatly if the methods you use are consistent with those they’re being taught at school – otherwise you can do more harm than good by confusing them. Reading and aspects of numeracy are both typically taught quite differently to when most of us were children, so do attend any curriculum information evenings the school holds, or ask their teacher for more information about methods. Employ tech to your advantage There are some brilliant educational apps and websites out there with masses of kid appeal. Try to find ones which align with the National Curriculum (or at least use British English to avoid conflict with what’s done at school). Many of the best apps have an in-built system of rewards and some even provide parents with progress reports.

Web link: https://www.familiesonline.co.uk/locations/national/education-childcare/education-andschools/eight-of-the-best-educational-apps-for-primary-schoolchildren Encourage reading Reading opens the door to almost endless learning and enjoyment. Some children are naturally enthused by books, others need more nudging to get the reading bug. Firstly, encourage any reading at all - be it comics, magazines, the back of the cereal packet - without worrying much about what they are reading. Also try and home in on your child’s interests and give them books that work with these - reluctant readers might gain confidence with non-fiction relating to their hobbies, or a football-mad child might enjoy some sporty tales and then decide fiction is for them. Bedtime stories are a crucial opportunity to snuggle up discussing books together. They’re still beneficial even once children can read independently - parents of older kids could take on a more

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challenging classic together, taking it in turns to read a page before talking about what’s going on. Incorporate ‘stealth learning’ into everyday activities Sneak some maths and literacy into their day-to-day life and you can improve their skills without it feeling like schoolwork. Adding up the cost of the shopping, dividing the bill in a restaurant, playing Monopoly or snakes and ladders, budgeting for that muchlonged for Christmas present or helping with cooking are all brilliant but subtle numeracy activities. For literacy, writing shopping lists, sending a postcard or email to the grandparents, or finding a pen pal might all help.

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

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The Great Easter Egg Hunt Keep up this fun tradition with your children this Easter of where you have hidden all the eggs. You don’t want to find melted chocolate later on where the kids have failed to notice those eggs under a sofa cushion! Some nice ideas to do the day before, especially if it’s raining... Encourage the children to decorate the bags or bowls that they and their friends will use for collecting the eggs in. If you’re using paper bags, make potato stamps and use poster paints to stamp on bold egg or bunny shape designs, then add stickers or glitter. If you have found little wicker baskets, line them with straw or shredded paper and tie ribbons to the handles. If you’re using plastic flower pots, tie a ribbon around each and add a paper label with the child’s name on it.

Where can you do an Easter Egg hunt?

Easter means different things to different people; for some it’s a religious celebration, for others a few days off work and the chance to meet up with friends and family for meals and outings together. But for the kids it is quite simple; it means time off school and plenty of Easter eggs! So why not organise an Easter Egg Hunt with your children and their friends! Here’s how to make this year’s Easter’s egg hunt one that will be talked about for years to come. What is an Easter Egg Hunt? If you’ve never done this before, you and your kids - are in for a treat. The day or evening before Easter Sunday, the grown-ups go around the house and possibly the garden too, including any safe sheds or garages, hiding Easter eggs and other treats. Then the kids have to find them on

Easter morning. For many parents, the planning and organising beforehand is almost as much fun as watching the kids chasing around trying to find where you have hidden the eggs.

First, the shopping list • You’ll need a few eggs per child perhaps one large one each and then several eggs of smaller sizes and colours. Look for bumper packs that will be cheaper to buy than lots of individual eggs. • Next, you need holders for the children to collect the eggs in. Though this could be as simple as paper bags, you could find some inexpensive baskets in a craft shop, some plastic bowls or even washed plastic flower pots. • If you don’t want the kids to overdose on sugar, a few small gifts may be nice among all the eggs. Perhaps some small books or colouring pens. • The final thing you’ll need is a list

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At home, inside the house. This is particularly good if the weather is bad and as Easter is very early this year, it may be cold or wet. Make sure you lock or mark out-of-bounds rooms that you don’t want the children in such as the kitchen and your own bedroom. In the garden. If it’s fine, this is ideal. Don’t put the eggs out the night before though, as animals may eat them, leave this until the morning. As an extra cute idea, why not make bunny footprints near each hidden egg? Cut the shape out of a piece of card and sprinkle flour or talcum powder through the template. In the woods. If you live near some open space, gather the kids and their parents together and delegate one or two members of the grown-ups to keeping them amused (perhaps with an egg themed story) until the other adults have planted the eggs and clues around. Then let the little ones loose!

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Make it better Some ground rules So that the children all feel they have been treated fairly and for safety, have some rules. • When they have collected three eggs, they must come back to ‘base’ before going off again. This gives them all a chance to find plenty of eggs. • Make sure you give the kids boundaries that they must not stray outside. If they go into the garden, make sure any gates or openings to the road are guarded by an adult and unsafe sheds or outhouses are locked. If you’re in the woods or a park, place small kids with grown-ups or much older children for safety. • Children could be asked to collect different colour eggs each - you can achieve this by wrapping eggs in several different colours of tissue or wrapping paper. Alternatively, you could have different colours for very small children and make them much easier to spot but have the slightly better hidden ones nearby for older kids. • Get older children to pair up with younger ones to help them. • Don’t allow the kids to eat the eggs as they find them - they have to bring them all back to base. • Once the game is over, allow them to eat one or two and then the rest should be taken home.

If you want to increase the amount of time the hunt takes up, you could have some challenges or activities along the way. For example, when they all get to a particular place, they could sit down on a picnic blanket for an Easter themed story, or play some games like “What’s The Time, Mister Wolf?” This helps to slow down the hunt and to let off steam too.

Give us a clue If you wish, you can add an extra dimension to a hunt, especially for older children, with clues. Think about where you can hide eggs and then make up a clue about that place. For example, if you have hidden some in the washing machine (unplug for safety), you could have a clue about ‘Where clothes go for a bath’ and so on. You could also make a map and have clues that they find as they follow the map around. This could be themed; they might be looking for numbered pictures of bunnies tied into the trees if you’re in the woods, they could be pirates looking for buried treasure in the garden (and could dress up too) or fairies looking for magic eggs in the house.

Use your imagination!

There are some fabulous organised Easter egg hunts that all the family can participate in all over West London. We list a few below but do check back on the Families West website for more additions:www.familieswest.co.uk 19 Mar-10 Apr Lindt Chocolate Trail at Kew Gardens. Join the hunt, solve the educational clues and receive a chocolate bunny. Also take part in a bean to bar workshop while you’re there and learn more about what you’re eating! www.kew.org 25-28 Mar Cadbury Georgian Easter Egg Hunt at Osterley Park. Read the clues, look on the map and find the eggs in Osterley’s Georgian gardens. 10am-4pm, £3, advanced booking not required. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterleypark-and-house/whats-on 27, 28 Mar Easter trail at Fulham Palace. The Museum and garden are full of clues, find them all and win a chocolate egg. £2 per child, no booking necessary. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for ages 2+.1pm-3.30pm. www.fulhampalace.org

Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of ‘Eco Baby’ and contributing author to ‘Watch My Baby Grow’ (Dorling Kindersley).

Allsorts drama for children will be running their popular Easter drama workshops at More House School, 22 - 24 Pont Street SW1 from 5th - 7th April for ages 4 - 6 & 7- 11 from 9.30am - 3.30pm. The children will have fun with games, prop making and working towards a show that they will perform to family and friends on the last day. Fee £150 with a 20% sibling discount. To book please call: 020 8969 3249 or visit: www.allsortsdrama.com

March/April 2016

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

what’s on EASTER HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS

DIARY DATES

SPORTS AND CRAFTS CAMP

6 Mar MOTHER’S DAY Time to put your feet up mums. Dads- plan something nice for the kids. See: www.familieswest.co.uk for great suggestions in West London.

SUPERCAMPS 28 Mar-8 Apr (date depends on location) Super Camps daily activity camps are the perfect way to put the magic back into the school holidays. The programme is jam-packed with fun activities that will keep your children entertained for hours, and the ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating gives you the peace of mind that your children are in the best possible care. Camps include a variety of sports, games, and arts and crafts. No two days are the same and the price includes all activities. West London locations include Ealing and Kensington. www.supercamps.co.uk

FRENCH CLUB PETIT PIERROT W2, NW8, SW3 4-8 Apr Fun French Immersion Easter Holiday Clubs for children to have fun and flourish while doing lots of arts and crafts, cooking, drama, outdoor sporty games, singing and learning French effortlessly at the same time. For ages 3-5 and 6-8. From 9am-1pm or from 9am-3pm, in Notting Hill, St John's Wood/Maida Vale and Chelsea. admincpp@btconnect.com … 020 7385 5565. www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING PERFORM DRAMA W4, W8, W11, SW7 30 Mar-1 Apr (4-6 Apr in Kensington). Perform Wizard of Oz Easter holiday workshops for children aged 4-7. Three full days (10am-3pm) of fun-packed drama, dance and singing in the company of Dorothy, the Scarecrow and the Tin Man. The course ends with a colourful performance on the last day. www.perform.org.uk/wizard MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN W12 8 Apr Musical Theatre workshop based on “Annie.” High energy fun with singing, dancing, art and design with a chance to showcase to parents at 3pm. For ages 5-11, 9.45-3.30pm. www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk

ART PAINT POTS W2 and SW7 11-15 Apr Creative sessions of Art, craft, music and games led by experienced teachers. Book a full week or individual sessions. Unaccompanied sessions for ages 3-6, 9.30am until 12.30pm or 3.30pm. Accompanied sessions for ages 18 months-3 years from 3-4.30pm. … Call 020 7223 0123. www.paint-pots.co.uk CORNER 9 W10 26 Mar Easter special Art session for children age 5+ Make, draw, paint and model Easter decoration. 10am - 12noon. www.corner9.com

MUSIC MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN W12 7 Apr Instrumental Extravaganza-Try a fabulous range of orchestral and percussive instruments with a musical adventure. Available instruments of the orchestra include Cornet, Trumpet, French horn, Fife, Violin, Piano, Keyboards, Percussion, Guitar, Ukulele, Flute, Clarinet. £5, for ages 4-11, 2pm. www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk

6 Mar CHISWICK PIER TRUST MOTHERING SUNDAY CRUISE A river cruise from Chiswick Pier to Westminster and back with the option to treat your family to afternoon tea on board. www.chiswickpier.org.uk 10 Mar DURSTON HOUSE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING 9.15-11.45am. See the Pre-Prep (age 4-7), Junior School (age 7-9), Middle and Upper Schools (age 9-13). Contact the Registrar for further details. 020 8991 6532. info@durstonhouse.org www.durstonhouse.org 12 Mar CLIFTON LODGE SCHOOL OPEN DAY 10am-12noon. Contact the Registrar for further details. 8 Mattock Lane, Ealing, London W5 5BG 020 85579 3662. admissions@cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk www.cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk 24 Mar WEAR A HAT DAY FOR BRAIN TUMOUR RESEARCH The Premier Brain Tumour Awareness event in the UK, helping to support long-term, life-saving research. Register to receive your free fundraising pack, then visit the Hatter’s Workshop for all your hatty extras; from posters to quizzes, hat-templates to merchandise order forms. www.braintumourresearch.org/wearahatday 25-28 Mar EASTER WEEKEND Time for an Easter egg hunt. Look through our What’s On listings and find out where they are taking place in and around West London. 27 Mar THE BOAT RACE Watch it locally at Chiswick Pier, bar open from 2pm. Big screens available to watch the start and finish, and live as the boats pass from Chiswick Eyot past the Pier and through to the final bend before Barnes Railway Bridge. BBQ, drinks, cakes and ice creams for all the family. www.chiswickpier.org.uk 24 Apr LONDON MARATHON Take a trip with the family to cheer on the runners. All the info you need at: www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com/en-gb/eventinfo/spectator-info 23 Apr NCT KENSINGTON AND CHELSEA NEARLY NEW SALE Top-quality baby and children’s clothes and equipment at bargain prices straight from their owners. 10am - 12 noon. Doors open to the public at 10:15. Venue: Westbourne Grove Church, Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill W11 2R 7 May ORLEY FARM SCHOOL OPEN MORNING 10am - 12noon and Wednesday mornings by appointment. www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES BRITISH MUSEUM WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org 16 Mar LITTLE FEET: MARCH TO THE MUSIC A morning of music and marching for under 5s and their parents and carers. Look for objects that inspire you to make sounds, sing a song and move your body. Free, drop-in, 10.30am-12 noon.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

5, 7 Apr LITTLE FEET: PUT ON THEIR SHOES Put your best foot forward and explore the wonderful world of shoes. Try on some specials shoes, have a go at lacing, move your feet to the music and help teddy put on her socks. For under 5s from 11am-1pm, free, drop-in. DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety of themes. Free, 11am-4pm, for ages 7+ (unless stated). See the Families West What’s on widget online for details FOUNDLING MUSEUM WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 17 Mar, 14 Apr BACH TO BABY An innovative classical babies’ concert created by mum and pianist, Miaomiao Yu, inspired by Handel. 10.30-11.30am. Adults £10, children free. 26 Mar FAMILY WORKSHOP: ILLUSTRATED BOOK BINDING Join artist Daniel Lehan to create and illustrate a story inspired by characters featured in the exhibition Drawing on Childhood. Learn traditional methods of bookmaking to produce a bound copy of your own story. 10.30am-4.30pm for age 5+ 5 Apr FAMILY WORKSHOP: SHH! WE HAVE A PLAN Illustrator Chris Haughton leads a very special family workshop inspired by his hilarious children’s book Shh! Join in on a fun adventure to capture a beautiful bird perched high in a tree, using puppets and collage.10.30am-4.30pm for age 5+ 23 Apr SPINNING TALES Led by artist Jan Cullen, explore characters in the exhibition Drawing on Childhood and create an optical toy that brings the story of these child heroes to life. Sessions at 10.30am, 1 and 3pm. For age 5+ IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk EXHIBITIONS: HOLOCAUST Film, photographs and a large number of rare artefacts document the history of the Nazi persecution of the Jews and other groups before and during the Second World War. For ages 14+ A FAMILY IN WARTIME Explores the lives of William and Alice Allpress and their ten children and what life in London was like during the war. SECRET WAR The clandestine world of espionage, covert operations and the work of Britain’s Special Forces. FIRST WORLD WAR Discover the story of the war Over 1,300 objects including weapons, uniforms, diaries, letters and souvenirs, will be on display as well as a recreated trench with periscopes and a dug-out, along with a soundscape and projection will evoke what daily life was like for the troops. 6, 13, 20 Mar, every Sat and Sun in Apr OBJECT CONVERSATIONS Immersive object handling sessions where families can explore objects from the collections. Feel the weight of a shrapnel piece from the First World War and come to grips with real objects from our collections. 11am and 2pm, for all ages. 6, 13, 20 Mar, 17, 24 Apr CREATIVE RESPONSE Art activities based on themes featured in atrium and galleries. Drop-in, free, for all ages. 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm. 19, 20 Mar, 30 Apr, 1 May INTRODUCTION TO THE HOLOCAUST This free discussion and replica object handling session is a useful starting point for families with children aged 11+ who wish to learn about the Holocaust. 11.30am and 2.30pm.

Museums and Days Out listings continue on page 18

March/April 2016

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

what’s on CONTINUED 25 Mar-10 Apr FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: MAKE A MOVING ANIMATION Create your own unique spinning drawing, based on a popular 19th century toy called a Thaumatrope. Mark 100 years since the introduction of the iconic British Brodie helmet during the First World War and come up with your own hat and helmet drawings, and find out how to make them move like an animation. 11am-4pm. LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk 1, 8, 15, 22 Mar SINGING AND STORIES FOR THE UNDER 5s Join in around the parachute for a fun-filled session of singing, movement and stories. Sing your favourite transport songs and learn some new ones. Get hands-on with a real object from the Museum’s collection and listen to a story about getting around by boat, horse bus, train, tube, bus or taxi. 10.45am, 12, 1.45 and 3pm. The Museum’s All Aboard play zone is perfect for younger visitors as it lets kids play conductor on a real bus, repair a mini Tube train with toy spanners, and work in the ‘Lost Property’ office. Children with a passion for art will love the new London by Design gallery, where an innovative audio-visual display projects a river of images on the floor which leads visitors on a journey to certain showcases in the exhibition.

nurturing every step

Baby Massage: From 6 weeks to crawling Children’s Yoga Adventures: For ages 2+

Call Clare on 07528 688 734 www.milestonesbabymassage.com

NATIONAL GALLERY

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm. MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For children aged 25. Sundays 10.30-11am and 11.30am - 12pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day. 6 Mar, 3 Apr FAMILY WALK AND TALK A walk around the gallery, talking about pictures to make them come alive. DRAWING SUNDAY Explore gallery paintings as inspiration for your art. For ages 5-11. Sundays 11am and 2pm. Drop-in. 13 Mar, 17 Apr FRAMED Make a personal frame with predella scenes all about your life and the journeys you have made. 10 Apr THE TONE ZONE Discover how tonal drawings help artists to paint their wonderful paintings. STUDIO SUNDAYS are hands-on workshops that start in the Gallery, followed by a studio session (11am and 2pm). 6 Mar, 3 Apr FIGURING FORM Explore examples of movement and musculature in paintings, and transform the painted image into a 3D object using wire, wax and modroc. 20 Mar CAPTURE A CREATURE Find your favourite creature in the gallery and turn it into a colourful print. 2, 9, 16 Mar, 13, 20, 27 Apr WELCOME WEDNESDAYS Bring paintings to life through interactive music, storytelling, art and messy play activities. Every Wednesday, 10.30 and 11.30am for walkers under age five, 1pm for sitting babies to walkers. HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS 28-30 Mar, 4-6 Apr HUNDREDS OF HATS Drop-in workshop. Find the incredible range of hats in the Gallery’s paintings, and make your own with an Easter twist. Free, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm. For age 2+ 28 Mar, 4 Apr MESSY MONDAYS: EXPLORING THE STUDIO Drop-in session for children under 5 years. Become a mini artist by exploring materials and mark making in a tactile environment inspired by a painting. 10.30am-1pm and 1.30-3pm. 29 Mar, 5 Apr TALKING TUESDAYS INVESTIGATING PAINTINGS Bringing a painting to life through singing, talking and playing. For under 5s. 10.30am-1pm and 1.30-3pm.

SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Every weekend INVESTIGATE FOR FAMILIES Get a feel for how scientists work by having a go yourself. Come and explore hundreds of real nature specimens that form the evidence Museum scientists use in their daily work. Drop-in, 11am-5pm. 6, 26 Mar MARY ANNING Meet Mary Anning, a pioneering fossil hunter from 19th century. (11.30am and 2pm). 12, 30 Mar, 6, 9 Apr ANIMAL VISION A show which features live animals, reveals a world only visible to certain reptiles and invertebrates. See how adaptations allow them to escape predators and locate prey. 10.30am for age 7+ 19 Mar, 23 Apr DINO SNORES Ever wondered what goes on at the Natural History Museum at night? 7pm till morning, torchlit trails through the museum, live animal shows and more. For ages 7-11. 20 Mar, 10 Apr CHARLES DARWIN Meet Charles Darwin, he will share his collection of beetles and tell you his famous theory of evolution. 27, 29, 31 Mar, 5, 7 Apr PUPPETS-CHICKEN LICKEN The puppeteer and her friend Chicken Licken will engage the whole family about the amazing world of birds. 12 and 1.30pm.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY

Arabic for Women and Children Families welcome – Goal Oriented • Dynamic • Innovative • Effective • Native Female Teacher (& mother of 3!)

Call Reem on

07956 845 053 18

WC2H OHE www.npg.org.uK 20 Mar DROP-IN FAMILY SESSION: PUTTING ON THE GLITZ Drop-in to the pop-up fashion photography studio to create a family portrait inspired by the glitz and glamour of portraits in Vogue 100. With a range of props and costumes on hand, photographer Marysa Dowling will help you create a family photograph. 1 and 3pm. For ages 3+ 28 Mar-1 Apr FAMILY HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES: A GOLDEN AGE A week of ticketed and drop-in sessions inspired by Russian and the Arts, with a range of activities including storytelling and print-making. 11am-4pm., all ages. 17 Apr DROP-IN FAMILY SESSION: ADVENTURES AND INVENTIONS Explore and discover hidden stories of inventors and adventurers in the Collection - from the inventor of the world wide web Tim Berners-Lee to Gertrude Bell, the uncrowned queen of the desert. For age 7+ at 1 and 3pm.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

SCIENCE MUSEUM SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk 16 Apr SCIENCE NIGHT A special overnight event for 7-13 year olds featuring exciting hands-on workshops, science shows, and a sleepover at the museum. VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk Every Sat in March and 25 Mar-3 Apr POP UP PERFORMANCES Storytelling, interactive plays and dance. For all ages at 11am, 1 and 3pm. Free, drop in Every Sun DROP-IN DESIGN Pick up a design challenge, hunt for ideas in the galleries, then create your own. 10.30am-5pm/ For age 5+ 25 Mar-27 Apr IMAGINATION STATION Explore the iconic images of Botticelli and create your own piece of art. 10.30am-5pm for ages 3+ Free, drop in. 25 Mar-27 Apr DIGITAL KIDS Create a postcard souvenir and transport yourself into Botticelli paintings with green screen photography. Free, drop-in for age 5+ 10.30am-5pm. FREE ART FUN-BACK-PACKS, ACTIVITY CART AND ANIMAL BAGS Families can pick up an activity BackPack, get creative at Drop-in-Design or go on a gallery adventure trail. Free, drop-in. Suitable for children aged 4 to 11. Activity Cart: Fantastic hands-on art fun for children to create collages and pictures to take home. Agent Animal Bag: A sensory activity bag that has been developed especially for under 5s. Each bag contains an audio map and fabric cubes. V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD E2 9PA www.vam.ac.uk/moc Until 9 Oct NEW EXHIBITION: THE CLANGERS, BAGPUSS & CO. The original puppets alongside archive footage, sets and storyboards, photos, scripts and filming equipment, all set in a playful recreation of Oliver and Peter’s film studio. Free. 25-27 Mar SMALL FILMS MARATHON Back-to-back screenings of animated classics including the Clangers,

March/April 2016

Bagpuss, Noggin the Nog and Ivor the Engine. Free. Drop-in, all ages 2-4pm. 28 Mar-1 Apr DRAGONS AND UNICORNS ARTICULATED PUPPET WORKSHOP Make beautiful 2D moving paper puppets inspired by the exhibition. For ages 5-12, 10.15am-3.15pm. 28, 29, 31 Mar, 1 Apr COSMIC SHOEBOX WORKSHOP Create your own imaginary world in a shoe box. For ages 5-12, 10.30am-3.30pm. 20 Mar MAKE DO AND MEND CRITTERS WEDNESDAY Upcycle everyday textiles into weird and wonderful creatures. For ages 5-12, 10.30am-3.30pm.

DAYS OUT CHISWICK HOUSE AND GARDENS W4 2QN www.chgt.org.uk Until 16 Mar MAGICAL LANTERN FESTIVAL Experience amazing illuminations of art and light through giant sculpted lanterns in a variety of forms and structures. Soak up the buzzing carnival atmosphere with live cultural staged performances, tease your taste buds with a range of international cuisines and meander through the market and take home a beautiful lantern of your choice to adorn your home.

WALLACE COLLECTION

CUTTY SARK

W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org 6 Mar, 3 Apr THE LITTLE DRAW Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities with artist Millie Nice. 1:30 - 4:30pm, all ages. 29 Mar PIXEL ART Using ‘Hama’ beads work with artist Hattie Moore to create a very special pixelated version of your favourite painting or object in the Wallace Collection. 10:30am and 2pm, £7 for age 6+ Booking essential via 020 75639 527 or booking@wallacecollection.org 31 Mar PAINTING PORTRAITS Learn how to paint a portrait using acrylic paints with artist Alison Kusner. Explore some of the different portraits before learning how to work with acrylics, including working with both a brush and palette knife, building up layers to create your final picture which you will paint onto a special oval shaped canvas. 10.30am-3.30pm, for ages 9-13, £12. To book phone 020 75639 527 or email: booking@wallacecollection.org 8 Apr DROP-IN ART WORKSHOP: BADGE OF HONOUR Look at paintings and objects that reflect the spring season. Draw your favourites before using them and different collage techniques to create your own badge back in our studio. Free, drop-in. Free, drop-in for ages 5+ 11am-1pm.

SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Every weekend CUTTY SARK CHARACTERS Come aboard to hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past. Suitable for ages 3+ Every Weds TODDLER TIME Bring your little sailors along for songs, stories and playtime on board. 2-4pm for ages 4 and under. 5, 6 Mar FAMILY FUN WEEKEND: PORT OF LONDON Help create a modern port of London with famous buildings and places that are important to you. 11am and 2pm for all ages. 25-28 Mar EASTER EGG HUNT Cutty Sark’s chickens have been laying their eggs in some strange places, how many can you spot around the ship? Join in the hunt for a chance to win a family ticket to Camp Bestival. All ages. 29-31 Mar LAND YACHTS Make your own amazing land yacht powered by the wind, and take part in some fun science demos to find out about ships and sailing. 11.30am and 2pm for all ages. 2, 3 Apr MUSICAL STATUES Make a fabulous head-dress to wear in a game of musical statues underneath the ship. 11am and 2pm for all ages. 5-7 Apr CUTTY SARK COMICS Take inspiration from the ship’s many characters and stories to design your own comic strip. 11am and 2pm for all ages.

March/April 2016

FULHAM PALACE SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org every Mon and Tues THE PALACE EXPLORERS A weekly parent/carer and toddler sessions for children aged 2-4. £3 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack. 1, 29 Mar, 5, 26 Apr PALACE STORIES History of the palace brought to life in these tales of the characters who lived there. Free, no booking necessary. 19 Mar YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGISTS’ CLUB: AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY FOR ARCHAEOLOGY Looking at how aerial photography can be used by archaeologists. 10.30am-12.15pm. 27, 28 Mar EASTER TRAIL The Museum and garden are full of clues, find them all and win a chocolate egg! £2 per child, no booking necessary. Children must

be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for ages 2+.1pm-3.30pm 30 Mar MAKE YOUR OWN BISHOP’S MITRE FAMILY DROP-IN A mitre is a special hat worn by a bishop. Make and decorate your own bishop’s mitre to wear and take home with you. £2 per child, no booking necessary. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for ages 2+. 2-3.30pm, 3 Apr MUSEUM DROP-IN During this Stone Age themed family drop-in, try on period costume, handle artefacts and learn about the history of Fulham Palace. 23.30pm. Free.

Days Out listings continue on page 20

From Baby to Ballerina

Classes for Boys and Girls aged 21/2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances

Classes held in: Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush and South Kensington

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

what’s on CONTINUED 6 Apr BIRD SCULPTURES FAMILY DROP-IN Create your own Fulham Palace bird sculpture on the main lawn. £2 per child, no booking necessary. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for ages 2+.2pm-3.30pm 9 Apr LITTLE GREEN FINGERS GARDENING SESSION Learn how vegetables and flowers grow and have a go at seed sowing in the garden beds and other fun gardening activities. 10.30am-12pm HAMPTON COURT PALACE KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk 5, 6 Mar LIVE HISTORIC COOKERY The Tudor kitchens at Hampton Court Palace are famous throughout the world for being those of King Henry VIII. See food archaeologists bring the kitchens to life experimenting with traditional recipes, ingredients and cooking methods to prepare feasts fit for a king! selected Thurs and Sats in Mar TINY EXPLORERS Discover the fascinating stories of Hampton Court Palace in a multi-sensory workshop which includes music, movement and messy play for 0-4yrs. Booking essential. 17 Apr ROYAL RAMBLE: 5KM FAMILY CHALLENGE For ages 5+ Dates TBA: FAMILY GHOST TOURS Join the State Apartment Warders for an early evening walking tour and discover the stories of ghostly apparitions, paranormal activity and all manner of spooky happenings from the palace’s history. For 8 - 14 year olds.

HMS BELFAST

KEW GARDENS

SE1 2JH www.iwm.org.uk

TW9 3AF www.kew.org See the biggest displays of spring colour in the country. Five million bulbs including snowdrops, crocuses, and daffodils in a riot of colour. In April, and, look out for the 250 magnificent magnolias across the Gardens. 19 Mar-10 Apr EASTER ACTIVITIES Include arts and crafts workshops. • LINDT CHOCOLATE TRAIL: Join the hunt, solving the educational clues with the Lindt Gold Bunny and every child receives a chocolate bunny. • BEAN TO BAR WORKSHOPS: Get hands-on and make your own chocolate and explore the production of chocolate.

ONGOING: GUN TURRET EXPERIENCE A chance to see what fighting at sea would have really been like. Lights, audio, projections and movement will recreate the experience, highlighting the hectic and cramped conditions that would have seen twenty-six men in this confined space at any one time. INTERACTIVE OPERATIONS ROOM The nerve centre and brain of the entire ship which now has exciting interactive activities. FREE FAMILY DROP-IN ACTIVITIES: 12, 13 Mar CRACKING CODES Intercept messages, map hazards on our sea chart and even make up your own secret code. Learn about the skills intelligence officers had to have as well as some of the dangers that surrounded HMS Belfast at sea. 11am and 2pm, all ages. 25 Mar-10 Apr TATTOO T - SHIRTS: DAVY JONES’S LOCKER Design a t-shirt, inspired by traditional navy tattoos, nautical superstitions and the sailor legend of Davy Jones’s Locker. Learn more about the history of navy tattoos, what the symbols mean and why as a sailor you wouldn’t want to be visiting Davy Jones’s Locker in a hurry! 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm KENSINGTON PALACE W8 4PX www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace Weds and Sats TINY EXPLORERS Discover fascinating stories about Kensington Palace in these multisensory workshops. Music, movement, messy play and more for 0-4yrs. To book, call 020 3166 6646.

ODDS FARM PARK HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk A fabulous day out at the farm. Meet the farmers and get close to the animals in the hands-on area and in the large undercover animal barns. There is a massive adventure play area with a four lane astra slide, two drop slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, swinging ropes and much more. Also a special Toddler and Under 5’s areas. Mar and Apr SPRING ACTIVITIES Children can bottle feed kid goats, jump on board the daily Tractor and Trailer Rides for a fun tour of the farm and from 25 Mar until 12 Apr, solve the Spring Trail to earn a yummy treat. Plus, see the Easter Lambs; you may be lucky enough to watch one being born. Also meet the farmers and stroke bunnies, hand feed goats and sheep, meet cheeky pigs...

Magic Carpet Storytelling AT THE NATIONAL GALLERY

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

March/April 2016

THEATRE, PERFORMANCES AND CONCERTS BECK THEATRE UB3 2UE www.becktheatre.org.uk 28, 29 Mar HOW THE LION BECAME KING OF TINGA TINGA LAND, is a fun new children’s stage show from the creator of Tweenies. This high-octane adventure will transport children and their families to the African Plains through music, puppetry and lots of interactive song and dance. Children are encouraged to turn up in costume, as their favourite animal. For ages 3+ 30 Mar THE RAILWAY CHILDREN An adaptation of E Nesbit’s classic which gives the whole audience the chance to join in and up to 8 children the opportunity to perform on stage with the professional team of actors! 16, 17 Apr THE WIZARD OF OZ PANTO Follow the Yellow Brick Road for the Easter pantomime starring Bobby Davro as Scarecrow and Dani Harmer (CBBC’s Tracy Beaker) as Dorothy. Packed with well-known pop songs, brilliant dance routines, lots of audience participation and plenty of laughter for all the family. CAMBRIDGE THEATRE WC2H 9HU www.matildathemusical.com Booking until May 16 MATILDA THE MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s magical story about a girl with extraordinary powers. LYRIC HAMMERSMITH W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 5 Mar THE REAL MERMAID TALE An exciting adventure on the high seas with pirates, monstrous sea creatures and mermaid treasure. Follow the intrepid Amelia Buttersnap on her journey full of magic and mutinous rats. For ages 3-8, at 11am and 1pm. 12 Mar THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER This well-known and well-loved tale - made popular by the Ladybird Classic - has Beautifully crafted set and puppets, sublime music, a kaleidoscope of miniature shoes and a comic mouse. For ages 3-9, at 11am and 1pm.

The Real Mermaid Tale AT THE LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

19 Mar LEAPER A FISH TALE Using a signature blend of intricate puppetry and mesmeric music, Leaper follows one fish's arduous quest against the ever-growing natural and manmade challenges of the sea. For ages 4-8 at 11am and 1pm. 16 Apr THREE KEEPERS It’s Young ‘Arry’s first day as a lighthouse keeper, and he’s pretty excited. He’s dreamt of a life full of adventure and heroic deeds- so long as he can bring his teddy. When the storm of the century threatens Flounder Rock, will disaster strike? Three Keepers is performed completely without words, using a fast and funny blend of physical theatre, original music, inventive dance and slapstick comedy. For ages 6-11 at 11am and 1pm.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com until 13 Mar JOEY’S FIREWORKS A marionette spectacle presented in two acts. Act 1 in which Joey visits Mr and Mrs Punch and Punch visits Big Ben and loses the laundry and Act 2 in which Mr Punch is chased by the Beadle. 19 Mar-15 May THE TOWN MOUSE AND THE COUNTRY MOUSE

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN W12 7LJ www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 7 Apr THE SECRET GARDEN What will we find, who will we meet, where will we travel? Follow the musician on another glorious tale for young children. For ages 0 - 6 at 10:30am PEACOCK THEATRE

The Railway Children AT THE BECK THEATRE

March/April 2016

WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com 24 Mar-2 Apr MY FIRST BALLET: SLEEPING BEAUTY As a baby, Princess Aurora is cursed by the evil Carabosse: on her 16th birthday, she will prick her finger on a spinning wheel and die. Her godmother the Lilac Fairy alters the spell so Aurora will not die but will sleep for 100 years, only to be awoken by true love’s kiss. With a narrator to help the young audience follow the story, and a shortened version of Tchaikovsky's gorgeous music, this is the perfect introduction to the beauty of ballet. 21-24 Apr LITTLE LORD FAUNTLEROY A ballet based on Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic tale about a poor American boy who discovers he is heir to an English title and fortune. Through this little boy’s courage, quirky charm and eternal optimism, he softens the heart of his fearsome old grandfather and restores his broken family.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse AT THE PUPPET THEATRE BARGE

Family Theatre and Concert listings continue on page 22

what’s on CONTINUED SOUTHBANK CENTRE SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Every Fri RUG RHYMES FOR THE UNDER FIVES A short session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories, and the opportunity to look at and borrow books. Free but booking essential. Every Mon DRAGON BABIES Bring your little ones to shake, rattle and gong. Gamelan for ages 3-5. Until 3 Jul THE WONDERCRUMP WORLD OF ROALD DAHL A magical and interactive journey through The Wondercrump World of Roald Dahl to discover the secrets of the writer with interactive installations to spark the imagination. 5 Mar LEAPS AND BOUNDS Everyone is welcome at this activity day tailored to disabled under 12’s and their families. If you have specific questions about the accessibility of the site or the event, please call 0844 847 9910. 11am - 5.30pm. 12-13 Mar UNDER 10’S FEMINIST CORNER GIRLS & BOYS An interactive workshop exploring what being a girl means, and get tips on how to start a campaign in your bedroom. This is a mixed session for all genders aged 6 - 10. Afternoon sessions just for girls. 10-11am. 19 Mar PRAM JAM Singing workshop for parents and children under 5. 19 Mar THE RATTLER GATHERING Free singing workshop and pageant for age 7+ 20 Mar BALINESE KECAK WORKSHOP A communal vocal tradition from Indonesia, Kecak is a ‘monkey chant.’ For ages 10+ 16 Apr THE COMPOSER IS DEAD A fun-filled murder mystery matinee exploring the crime and the orchestra’s family of instruments.

THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE WC2B 5JF www.reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatre-royaldrury-lane Ongoing CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Roald Dahl's deliciously dark tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Willy Wonka in a musical directed by Sam Mendes. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. UNICORN THEATRE SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com Until 15 Mar JERAMEE, HARTLEBY AND OOOGLEMORE At the seaside things happen Hartleby spends a lot of time being bossy, Oooglemore does some crazy dancing, Jeramee makes it all OK. This is a surprising and surreal encounter with three people who have a lot to say but only three words with which to say it. For ages 3-7. Until 2 Apr MINOTAUR An impossible labyrinth with a fearsome and lonely beast. Only his sister cares for him and dreams of setting them both free. But she makes a terrible pact with the enemy’s son that changes everything. For ages 8+ 13 Mar-10 Apr MY FATHER, ODYSSEUS Telemachus’ father left long ago to fight a war. Now the man of the house, he must step up to defend his father’s legacy and protect his mother from the suitors that lounge around the court. Meanwhile, the great Odysseus has been trapped by the goddess Kalypso for ten long years and longs to return home. For age 11+ 17 Apr-1 May THE POLAR BEARS GO UP There aren’t many balloons in the Arctic. So when you find one, it’s precious. And if it gets lost, you have to go and find it. So now they must step up and explore unknown territory: the sky above their heads. For ages 2-5.

CONCERTS AND MUSIC WORKSHOPS

30 Mar, 27 Apr in Kensington (Christ Church, Victoria Road, W8) 15 Mar, 12 Apr in Notting Hill (St. John’s Church, Lansdowne Crescent, London W11) 11 Mar, 22 Apr in Hammersmith (St. Andrew’s Church, Greyhound Road, W14) 18 Mar, 15 Apr in Chiswick (St. Michael and All Angels, Bath Road, W4) THE MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN W12 7LJ www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 15 Mar LITTLE BIRDSONG CONCERTS A live instrumental experience for babies, toddlers and their families. Outstanding musicians perform a repertoire of traditional and contemporary music. For ages 3 months to 3 years at 10.30am. THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com Every Wednesday in Mar and Apr STORYTELLING AND MUSIC a series of sessions for babies and toddlers, aiming to engage and encourage interaction between parents/carers and their little ones using musical instruments, singing, movement and stories. For children up to age 4. WIGMORE HALL W1U 2BP www.wigmore-hall.org.uk/wigmore-series/family-events 11 Mar CHAMBER TOTS: IN THE FOREST Interactive music-making sessions for children aged 1 to 5 with songs, percussion and the chance to meet some exciting instruments up close. 16 Mar FOR CRYING OUT LOUD! Hear outstanding performances by musicians from the Royal Academy of Music presented especially for parents or carers and their babies in a relaxed and accommodating environment. For babies up to 1 year old.

BACH TO BABY The Wondercrump World of Roald Dahl AT THE SOUTHBANK CENTRE

www.bachtobaby.com/londonnorth All concerts at 10.30am.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

March/April 2016

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March/April 2016

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clubs & classes DANCE DANCE GALLERY Dance Gallery is Ealing’s leading dance school and specialises in modern, jazz, tap and musical theatre productions for children aged 4-18 years old. …0208 566 9672 jill@dancegallery.co.uk www.dancegallery.co.uk KENSINGTON BALLET 18 months - 2 years Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Fulham. …07957 650042 www.kensingtonballet.com WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY Become a Dance Teacher, a new concept in dance teacher training. …07771 984590 info@westlondondanceacademy.com www.westlondondanceacademy.com www.becomeadanceteacher.co.uk WEST LONDON SCHOOL OF DANCE 21/2 - 16 years …020 8743 3856 westlondondance@aol.com www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk DRAMA ALLSORTS DRAMA drama for children’s term time classes for ages 4 - 16 are held in SW1, W11 and NW3. To book your free trial class for the summer term please call …020 8767 5298 · 020 8969 3249 or visit: www.allsortsdrama.com Allsorts Drama · 34 Crediton Rd · London NW10 3DU

SPORTS

PERFORM Drama, dance and singing sessions held in various venues around London.To find a FREE trial class near you call: …0845 400 1285 www.perform.ork.uk STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS Dance, drama and singing for 4-18 year olds. …Chiswick 020 8398 4709 …Kensington & Brook Green 020 8398 8106 …Hammersmith 020 8398 8106 …Acton 020 8819 1399 …Ealing 01494 700794 info@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk YOURSPACE DRAMA Saturday mornings of drama song and dance (6-16s) plus creative performing arts holiday courses 3-16s) at Easter and in August. Ealing W5. Find out more at: www.yourspacedrama.com …07580 474638 info@yourspacedrama.com FOOTBALL KIDDIKICKS Football (W2,W4,W8,W10,W11,TW8) Available for boys and girls from 18 months to age 7. …020 7937 7965 info@kiddikicks.co.uk www.kiddikicks.co.uk GYM & DANCE TWISTERS. Gymnastics, Ballet,Dance Drama Toddlers to Teenagers. …020 8933 9997 · 020 8840 4452 twisters@btinternet.com www.twisters.org.uk

Will To Win Junior Multi-Sports Camps, Junior Netball, Football & Tennis courses and Drop-in sessions. …Pitshanger Park 020 8991 9844 …Lammas Park, 020 8840 0888 www.willtowin.co.uk LANGUAGES Arabic for Women & Children Female teacher …07956 845053 TUTORS AND LEARNING SUPPORT EXPLORE LEARNING Maths & English Tuition Centres. 5-14 years. Free Trial session …Ealing 020 8090 8710 …Hayes 020 8561 8530 …Westfield London 020 809 01216 www.explorelearning.co.uk SUSAN DAUGHTREY EDUCATION 11+ courses in Ealing (West London) …020 3198 7772 jjacob@SDE11plus.com www.sde11plus.com/ealing FLEET TUTORS Private home tutoring. …020 8580 3911 jwww.fleet-tutors.co.uk MRS JONES 11 PLUS TUITION Mock exam practice. …020 8390 6076 www.11plustuition.co.uk VICTORIA PAGE Private tuition 21/2 - 11years. …07050 246810 VIVIEN BORNEMANN Home tuition. Art, Craft and design. All ages. …020 8932 1010