West Kent Family Grapevine - Winter Edition 2020

AUTUMN / WINTER 2020

WEST KENT

The

ONLINE with hyperlinks

Essential Guide for Families in West Kent

#SupportLocal

Inside

Essential Information for Parents Competitions: WIN A family Ticket for Robin Hood at EMF Theatre 1 of 4 Family Tickets for Spring Live 1 of 2 11+ Vocabulary Quiz Games A copy of 'Understanding Children and Teens' Daisy First Aid Winter Advice What is Hueristic Play?

NSPCC Returning to School Post - Covid - 19 Volunteering with the Girl Guides Upcoming Events in West Kent Edible Christmas Decoration Recipe!!

Chocolate Yule Log Recipe Childcare • Education • Parties • Family Support • Activities • & More...

www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent

The Family Grapevine is a free magazine, in print and online, packed with local family information, services, events, and competitions. Aimed at parents, grandparents and carers, we provide concise and up to date details of local businesses, groups, activities and informative content relevant to children and families.

The West Kent Family Grapevine traditionally distributes a minimum of 10,000 copies across our area to schools, nurseries, day care centres, health visitors, leisure centres, supermarkets, libraries and other pre-selected venues where it will be picked up by parents.

Profile picture by Lucy Mckenzie Photography

01892 711114 james@thefamilygrapevine.co.uk www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent

@FamilyGrapevineWestKent

@FamilyGrapevineWestKent

@GrapevineJames

In combination with our social media presence and online audience, we’re proud to be supporting local businesses and making parenting a little bit easier.

Each edition is published in March, July and November, with parents frequently keeping the magazine for reference throughout its four month shelf life.

It can also be viewed online and on the move via mobile, tablet and on social media. Our websites are constantly updated with events, local information and updated free local business listings.

We appeal to both large and small advertisers, offering an affordable, yet highly effective, promotional tool. The statistics speak for themselves; with many advertisers repeat booking every year.

If you would like more information about advertising with us, please click here to download our media pack or get in contact for a no obligation chat.

Print Publication Dates are 1st week in March, July and November Artwork deadlines 10th of the month prior to publication Discounts are available for series bookings in consecutive issues

Disclaimer: The Family Grapevine West Kent is independently owned and part of The Family Grapevine Group operated by Grapevine Magazines Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior permission of the publisher. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken in the preparation of the material in this publication and to ensure the accuracy of its content, no warranty is given as to its correctness. All adverts are submitted and approved by the advertiser and this does not imply a recommendation or necessarily the views of the publisher. You should make your own enquiries and comparisons as with any other form of advertising. I accept no liability for loss, damage or difficulties resulting from contacts made through the directory, from errors or omissions, from claims made by advertisers or from omissions or inaccuracies relating to an advertisement or other entry, regardless of how caused.

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www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent

Welcome!!

Introduction Welcome to our Online Autumn / Winter edition of the West Kent Family Grapevine Magazine.

It's that wonderful time of year, when the leaves change colour and there's the anticipation of Halloween, Fireworks night and Christmas.

We've got lots of seasonal local events on our website, which is constantly updated, so do have a look for some great ideas. You can also view our magazine and website on your tablet or smartphone so you need never be without up to date family information.

In this edition we have all our usual family relevant business listings, however with the current on-going Covid situation, please bear in mind that not everyone will be running or offering their usual service.

We're delighted to have valuable First Aid advice from Nicola at Daisy First Aid, and a great article from Stacey Appleby @what_dorothy_does about Heuristic Play.

We've got some brilliant competitions too and a lot more which we hope you will find both interesting and useful. All of our advertisers and contributors have hyperlinks attached so just click on the advert image or article for more information We hope you have a safe and fun winter and wish you all a wonderful Chrsitmas and New Year.

Our Spring edition is published in March 2021, but in the meantime do follow us on social media and check out our website for updated family events, information and posts.

Best wishes

James and Clare

Contents

Competitions

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Articles Daisy First Aid, Winter First Aid Advice What is Heuristic Play?

NSPCC - Retruning to School Post-Covid-19 Inspiring Girls in West Kent

9 14 22 23

Fun Stuff!

Letter to Santa

Recipes Word Search & Xmas Tree Maze Upcoming Events

6 24 24 25

Listings Family Health & Support Antenatal & Postnatal Services Baby & Toddler Groups Childminders & Nannies Preschooler Activities Nurseries & PreSchools Primary & Independent Schools Private Tutoring A-Z Activities for Children 5-16 yrs Everything Party...

Holiday Schemes & Activities Family Days Out Upcoming Events

Please tell advertisers you you heard about them through thethe 'Family Grapevine' Please tell advertisers heard about them through 'Grapevine'

4 7 8 8 10 11 13 16 17 20 21 21 26

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Local Business • Family Health & Support

Cheeki Monkeys baby’s & children’s tabletop sale, Tonbridge, buy or sell, tel 07940 252265

Hildenborough Library, 3 Riding Lane, Hildenborough, Tonbridge TN11 9LN, tel 03000 413131 Kemsing Library, Dippers Close Kemsing, Sevenoaks TN15 6QD, tel 03000 413131 Otford Library, High Street, Otford, Sevenoaks TN14 5PH, tel 03000 413131 Paddock Wood Library, 9 Commercial Road, Tonbridge TN12 6EN, tel 03000 413131

Congnitive Behaviour Therapy and Mindfulness Qualified and accredited with BABCP, tel 07845 031102

Pembury Library, Henwood Green Road, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 4HS, tel 03000 413131

Family & pet-friendly taxis, up to 8 seats, for those who need extra care, tel 01892 642121

Riverhead Library, 31 London Road, Riverhead TN13 2BU, tel 03000 413131

Local Businesses Babyprints, Unique 3D casts of babies, children, families and pets, tel 07714 531747 Baldwins Travel, independent travel agent, tel 01892 506445

Felicity Harvest, Humanist UK Clebrant, for your namings & other ceremonies, tel 07708 933607 Independent travel agent specialising in family holidays worldwide, tel 01892 882750 KMJ Property, your local, independent Estate Agent, tel 01892 515188 KW Cleaning, professional cleaning with a personal touch, tel 07586 830056 Mum2Mum, nearly new sales in Kent MyChristie, Professional & Creative Graphic Design Services, tel 07796 105190 Organic, preservative and additive free ready meals delivered to your door, tel 01892 740023 RMW Services, Kitchen painting and custom painted furniture, tel 07761 530679 Sarah McIntyre specialises in bespoke baby naming ceremonies. Truly memorable, tel 01732 833121 The Good Estate Agent Sevenoaks, friendly & professional local agents, low rates, tel 01732 617066 The Magical World of Children’s Books. Huge discounts. Find us on fb, tel 07895 243757 Toy Central, Quality Wooden Toys, Sevenoaks, tel 01732 467307 Vibrance Beauty, Mobile Beauty Therapist. Tonbridge & surrounding areas, tel 07377 994655 Xtreme2Clean, professional Carpet & upholstery care, tel 07903 654710

Local Information Offices Tourist Information Centre and Council office, Tonbridge Castle, Tonbridge, tel 01732 770929

Photographers Capture Me Happy, relaxed family photography, location, studio and event, tel 07977 564811 Lucy McKenzie Photography, Maternity, Baby & Children, Tunbridge Wells, tel 07863 550676 Nic Bisseker Photography - Family Portrait and action dog photography, tel 07879 840171

Libraries Borough Green Library, High Street, Sevenoaks TN15 8BJ, tel 03000 413131 East Peckham Library, Pound Road, East Peckham, Tonbridge, Kent, TN12 5AU, tel 03000 413131

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Rusthall Library, Rusthall High Street, Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 8RZ, tel 03000 413131 Seal Library, High St, Sevenoaks TN15 0AL, tel 03000 413131 Sevenoaks Library, Buckhurst Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 1LQ, tel 03000 413131 Sherwood Library, Lakeside, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 3LZ, tel 03000 413131 Showfields Library, Showfields Road, Tunbridge Wells TN2 5PR, tel 03000 413131

Competitions WIN A Family Ticket for Four to see WICKED PRODUCTIONS

Robin Hood And his Socially Distanced Merry Men at the EMF Theatre in Tonbridge (Keep an eye out for characters from Robin Hood in the Magazine!)

Magazine!)

Southborough Library, Yew Tree Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN4 0BA, tel 03000 413131 The Eden Centre Library, Four Elms Road, EdenbridgeTN8 6BY, tel 03000 413131 Tonbridge Library, 1 Avebury Avenue, Tonbridge TN9 1TG, tel 03000 413131 Tonbridge North Library, 5 York Parade, Tonbridge, TN10 3NP, tel 03000 413131 Tunbridge Wells Library, Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1NS, tel 03000 413131

WIN A copy of 'Understanding Children and Teens'

by Judy Bartkowiak

WIN

West Kingsdown Library, London Rd, West Kingsdown TN15 6EL, tel 03000 413131 Westerham Library, London Road, Westerham TN16 1BD, tel 03000 413131

Gifts and Keepsakes Babyprints, Unique 3D casts of babies, children, families and pets, tel 07714 531747 Caricatures by Lesley Harvey, drawn from your favourite photo, tel 07722 236741 Kiddicone, themed gifts to celebrate the first day at school, tel 07976 828348

Outdoor Activity Equipment The Adventure Zone- try before you buy, swings, trampolines, tel 01732 822659

Employment Opportunities Successful Mums help mums return to work, change career or start a business, tel 07761 615371

Bereaved Parents and Family Members Financial & emotional support for families who’ve lost a young adult aged 16-25, tel 01323 482772

Widowed and Young (WAY) offering a peer-to-peer support network for anyone who's lost a partner before their 51st birthday, www.widowedandyoung.org.uk

One of Four family tickets to Spring Live 2021 at the South of England Showground

WIN One of Two Farquhar's 11+ Vocabulary Quiz Games To find out more & to enter click on a competition or visit the 'Competitions' Page on our website

www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk

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Competition Page

To enter visit: www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent/competitions/ (T&Cs Apply)

To enter CLICK on a COMPETITION (T&Cs Apply)

Please tell advertisers you you heard about them through thethe 'Family Grapevine' Please tell advertisers heard about them through 'Grapevine'

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NSPCC Letter to Santa

Send a Letter from Santa!

Choose from 8 brand new festive letters to personalise!

Keep the magic of Christmas alive this year for your little ones and help us be here for children with a suggested £5 donation.

Santa’s op Worksh is now open!

I

NP

CC

NP NP

CC

CC

Dear Liam,

CC

With Christmas fast approaching, we need to test all the toys. Even pet toys! Only the best ones get delivered on Christmas Eve!

ng, truly exciti a, as, how Dear Olivi t Christm writing! very firs poem I’m d, It’s your on for this ’s decorate the reas the tree And also ed! festive, captivat e looks so everyone The hous as night, l face has istm tifu Chr beau t Your , your firs ng bright! istmas Day shini Chr s t star Your firs filled with edible joy, the sky, what incr Look to istmas, as toy! first Chr t Christm Your very firs to you, your , are here In giving that you ! be happier my reindeer go, We couldn’t away with y to I must fly we’re read But now bed, and ed up in HO HO! You’re tuck with a HO farewell you I’ll bid

CC

NP

Dear Emma, Cup Final! time for the Elf Christmas, it’s North Pole FC. Now it’s nearly Cane United versus ?

This year it’s Candycheering on Candy Cane United who’s football Can you spot We really love having fun, Emma. So instead of football I heard you like grass. not on ice, of snow. And here. But we play ! The ball is made skates ice icicles. wear giant n the boots, we the ball betwee you score by kicking referee is? the great Can you see who you’ve been learning you friend told me So, your best now you’re bigger Keep it up and team when they things this year. just like the winning might win an award, lift the Elf Cup! to put on my present last I’ve got one who?

After the game, Can you guess a special child. who’s sleigh. It’s for for kick-off. But e Dasher is ready Well, it looks like on a sledge? They’r towards the pitch help! that charging I’d better go and t for Dasher! heading straigh Merry Christmas!

Look, can you see the toys for dogs, like balls they can catch?

And, of course there are toys for cats too – like feathers that tickle! There are even toys for hamsters, like wheels that spin round and round! Gosh they make me dizzy! What’s Rudolph playing with? Can you guess what type of pet that’s for?

Now you’re bigger, and you’ve been such a good child this year, we’ll deliver a special toy for you too on Christmas Eve. The elves are just making it now! I hope you’re excited to open it on Christmas morning!

CC

Before I get back to playing with…I mean, testing the toys, your best friend told me you’ve been learning great things. Amazing!

They also said you love having fun, which sounds brilliant!

Right, I need to find my hat. I’m sure I left it around here somewhere. Can you spot it?

Merry Christmas!

NP

Dear Yara, Now it’s nearly Christm as, it’s time for the This year it’s Candy Elf Cup Final!

Cane United versus Can you spot who’s North Pole FC. cheering on Candy Cane United?

I heard you like having fun, Emma. We really here. But we play love football on ice, not grass.

So instead of football boots, we wear ice skates! The ball is made of snow. you score by kicking And the ball between the giant icicles.

Can you see who the referee is?

So, your best friend told me you’ve been things this year. learning great Keep it up and now you’re bigger you might win an award, just like the winning lift the Elf Cup! team when they After the game, I’ve got sleigh. It’s for a special one last present to put on my child. Can you guess who?

Well, it looks like Dasher that charging towards is ready for kick-off. But who’s the pitch on a sledge? heading straight for They’re Dasher! I’d better go and help!

Merry Christmas!

MINCE

PIES

TREATS

as Olivia!

istm Merry Chr

Dear Elija h, With Chr istmas fast toys. Eve approach n ing, we Christm pet toys! Only as Eve! the best need to test all ones get the Look, can delivered on And, of you see the toys course there for dogs tickle! There , like are toys for cats balls they can round and are even toys catch? too – for playing withround! Gosh they hamsters, like like feathers that wheels that make me ? Can you guess dizz Now you’ what type y! What’s Rud spin re olph of pet that we’ll deliv bigger, and you’v ’s for? er elves are a special toy e been such a good for just mak Christm ing it now! you too on Chr child this year as morn , istmas I hope you’ ing! re excited Eve. The Before I to open get it on best frien back to playing d They also told me you’ve with…I mean, test been learn said you ing the toys, your ing grea love havi Right, I t ng fun, need which soun things. Amazing somewhere to find my hat. ! ds brilliant . Can you I’m sure !

I left it spot it?

Merry Chr around here istmas!

1

Visit nspcc.org.uk/santa-letter to order ©NSPCC 2020. Registered charity England and Wales 216401. Scotland SC037717. Registered with the Fundraising Regulator.

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HOT CHOC OLATE

PHOTOBOO TH

Family Health & Support • Antenatal • Postnatal Child and Family Health

Woodland Chiropractic Clinic caring for the whole Family, Borough Green, tel 01732 887177 Creating healthy beginnings- from pregnancy to age 2. Mother & baby wellness, tel 07393 995583 Hairforce, nit and head lice professional treatment, tel 0208 2497381 Mindfulness classes, 3-11 yrs, tunbridge wells. private and group sessions, tel 07887 951968 Supporting families with a new baby or a child aged under five-years-old, tel 0300 7900243 Tunbridge Wells Cloth Nappy Library, Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas, tel 07733 161744 Yoga in primary schools to nurture physical & mental wellbeing. Mindful fitness, tel 07914 837102

Child and Family Support and Advice

Amanda Sokell Practical support for parents with a child struggling at school, tel 07711 183919 Helping families become fully functional through Coaching and Mentoring, tel 07825 411793 The Money Advice Service, clear unbiassed money advice, tel 0300 500 5000

Fostering and Adoption Anchor Foster Care, Foster Care Services, Medway & surrounding areas

Children and Young People with Disabilities Auditory Verbal UK- helping deaf babies and children listen and talk, tel 01869 325000 IMAGO, support and empower vulnerable groups, tel 01892 530330

Children with Reading or Learning Difficulties Cog-Ed, Educational, Dyslexia and Psychological Services, tel 07972 624969 Early Action for Autism: 1:1 ABA therapy, tel 07400 608998

Counselling Services Helping families become fully functional through Coaching and Mentoring, tel 07825 411793

Mediation Services West Kent Mediation, free family mediation for families living in West Kent, tel 01732 469696

Parenting Courses and Support Daisy First Aid Tunbridge Wells & Sevenoaks, Baby & Child First Aid Classes, tel 07939 507662 Baby and You, a course for new parents and their babies, 6wks-6mths, tel 03000 411035 Baby and You, The Ark Children Centre, 6wks-6mths, tel 03000 411035 New Parents Groups, Paddock Wood Children’s Centre . New Borns-Crawling, tel 03000 411035 TKE Training: Parent First Aid courses at your home re Baby & Child emergencies, tel 0800 756 2348

Good Birth Practice, practical & fun hypnobirthing classes, courses & workshops, tel 07905 986810 LoveBirth, feel relaxed and confident about the upcoming birth of your baby, tel 07738 001564 Strong Like Mama, hypnobirthing and antenatal - for a calm, confident birth!, tel 07711 078507 Tiger Stripes, hypnobirthing, tel 07864 596165 TrueWay Hypnobirthing antenatal classes for a positive birth experience, tel 07966 483931

Speech and Language Hayley Quinn, Speech Language Therapist, tel 07780 910992

Stay Fit and Healthy

Reachout Youth, Tunbridge Wells based organisation providing free, confidential emotional wellbeing and support for teenagers aged 13-19, tel 07545 208899

Tonality Dance/Aerobic Fitness Classes - Frant Hall, Frant Near Tunbridge Wells, tel 07721 747201

Domestic Abuse, Support and Advice

Hey Baby 4D is a boutique private ultrasound clinic based in Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 489166

National Centre for Domestic Violence, tel 0800 970 2070

Providing practical and emotional support for new mothers and their families, tel 07974 001362

TKE Training: Parent First Aid courses at your home re Baby & Child emergencies, tel 0800 756 2348

Hypnobirthing

Osteopath for the little ones with Ian Clutton, Integrated Health, tel 01732 464109

MyPilates group mat mixed abilities classes, Sundridge & Brasted, tel , tel 07375 200495

Daisy First Aid Tunbridge Wells & Sevenoaks, Baby & Child First Aid Classes, tel 07939 507662

You Baby Beyond, 1-2-1 PT (studio or home visits) + Mum & Baby Fitness Classes, tel 07592 305124

Registered Children’s Complementary Therapists

Psychotherapist/Counsellor working with adults on personal + relationship issues, tel 07970 440441

First Aid Training for Parents and Carers

Buggyfit Sevenoaks, outdoor prepostnatal fitness for mums and babies, tel 07487 774380 Busylizzy Tunbridge Wells, Antenatal and Postnatal Fitness and Baby Classes, tel 01892 323232 Freestyle Yoga Project Studio, Pregnancy Yoga, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 624398 Inhalexhale Yoga Pregnancy Yoga & Postnatal Yoga with Baby Massage in Tunbridge Wells, tel 07702 751143 Pregnancy YOGA, Paddock Wood Children’s Centre, TW, Saturdays at 10.30am, tel 07885 754556 Sandrines Pilates, Mum and baby pilates, tel 01892 618493 Unity Birth Programme - Comprehensive mind & body antenatal courses in T-Wells, tel 07702 751143

Antenatal Services

Strong Like Mama, hypnobirthing and antenatal - for a calm, confident birth, tel 07711 078507

Antenatal and Postnatal Exercise At home fun Mama & Baby/child workouts, suitable for all ages incl, prenatal, tel 07707 346552

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Antenatal • Postnatal • Childcare • Baby & Toddler Midwives and Doulas Flourish Birth & Baby, Carole Youdan, Birth & Postnatal Doula, tel 07786 610328 Private Midwife prenatal & postnatal care. One-off appointments/packages of care, tel 07985 526595 Providing practical and emotional support for new mothers and their families, tel 07974 001362

Groups

Breastfeeding, Weaning Help and Support Boobie Milk Ltd, maternity and nursing bras, etc, tel 07951 600777 NCT Baby Café, Manna Café, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 522323

Baby and Toddler Massage

NCT Breastfeeding Helpline, tel 0300 330 0700 South Tonbridge Children’s Centre, Tonbridge, tel 03000 418008 Spring House Children’s Centre, Sevenoaks, tel 03000 411035

Children’s and Family Centres Edenbridge Children’s Centre, tel 03000 420995 Harmony Children’s Centre, Rusthall, tel 03000 420890 Little Forest Children Centre, Tunbridge Wells, tel 03000 420892 Little Foxes Children’s Centre, Waveney Road, North Tonbridge, tel 03000 418008 Paddock Wood Children’s Centre, open week days 9am-12pm. Activities for 0-5 yrs, tel 03000 411035

Professional Nanny Ad Hoc, Daytime, Evening, Travel, Temporary, Emergency, tel 07852 345124 Sunny Smiles Au Pair Agency, specialising in placing European au-pairs in the UK, tel 07717 214041 The Childcare Company, nannies and au pairs, tel 01732 451997 The Little Au Pair Agency: Bromley based, small, friendly, covering the UK, tel 020 8462 6041 Tinies Childcare, tel 01732 458822

Lingfield Littlies, Friday 9.00am 10.30am, free stay and play, baby & toddler, tel 01342 778772 SEVENOAKS, Baby and Parent Cinema Club, Stag Community Arts Centre, Tues10.30am, tel 01732 450175 Trinity Theatre, mums and babies film club, tel 01892 500673

Father’s Groups Dad & Me 0-5yrs Tunbridge Wells Baptist Church 1st & 3rd Saturdays, tel 01892 541118

South Tonbridge Children’s Centre, Tonbridge Youth Hub, tel 03000 418008 Southborough Children’s Centre, tel 03000 420891 Spring House Children’s Centre, Sevenoaks, tel 03000 421137 The Ark Childrens Centre, Broadwater Lane, tel 03000 414600 West Kingsdown Children’s Centre, tel 01474 854624

Babysitters and Childminders Angel Placements Childcare Agency, tel 01622 815271 Ofsted ‘outstanding’ childminder in Edenbridge, term time, tel 07917 744515

Nannies and Au Pairs A TRAVEL NANNY. Professional Nanny Providing Travel Nannying all year round, tel 07852 345124 Angel Placements Childcare Agency, tel 01622 815271 County Nannies, meeting the needs of parents and childcarers, tel 01795 520060 East Green Childcare Services, taking care of all your childcare needs, tel 01732 838417 Elizabeth Henry Nannies: Nannies, Maternity Nurses, Nursery Staff, babysitting, tel 01732 851313 Event Childcare, tel 07557 043736 Family Rules childcare employment services for nannies, maternity nurses, etc, tel 020 8133 5437

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Creating healthy beginnings- from pregnancy to age 2. Mother & baby wellness, tel 07393 995583 Inhalexhale Yoga Mummy & Me Pilates Classes every Wednesday at 11am at Pembury Pavilion, tel , tel 07876 787869 Postnatal Yoga for Mum & Baby Massage, Yoga and songs for babes!, tel 07702 751143 Tatty Bumpkin, Sevenoaks, fun yoga-inspired activity, 6wks-7yrs, tel 07870 598606 Yoga for children 4+ Available for group sessions in schools or youth clubs, tel 07885 754556

Baby and Toddler Other Groups At home fun Mama & Baby/child workouts, suitable for all ages incl, prenatal, tel 07707 346552 Baby Sensory, baby development classes, birth-13mths, Tunbridge Wells, tel 07793 682490 Baby Stay and Play, The Ark Childrens Centre, Broadwater Lane, tel 03000 414600 CYCLEme TOTS, Mid-Kent Classes, 2-7 years, tel 07739 389281 Dad & Me 0-5yrs Tunbridge Wells Baptist Church 1st & 3rd Saturdays, tel 01892 541118 Daddy and Me 0-5yrs, Pantiles Baptist Ch, Frant Rd, Tunbridge Wells 2nd Sat am, tel 01892 521093

Daddy and Me. Ark Childrens Ctr 1st Sat of every month, tel 03000 414600 Pandas Playgroup Daddy and Me, 2nd Saturday mornings 0-11yrs, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 521903 Pops and Tots for Male Carers, 1st Sat monthly, New Life Ch, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 691509

Baby and Toddler Additional Needs Groups The Children’s Trust School Taddies Playgroup for children with complex needs, tel 01737 365810

Baby and Toddler Yoga Baby Bumpkin: Age 6 weeks-2 yrs, Baby Massage and Yoga, tel 07511 048803 Banana Studio Yoga, Toddlertastic Yoga Club. Pre School & Youth Yoga Courses, tel 07834 518619

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Baby and Toddler Explorers, for 0-2 years, for your child’s sensory development, tel 07947 380135 Baby Massage, for babies 6-16 weeks, Sevenoaks, tel 07788 971627 Blissful Bébé Massage group and private baby massage courses, tel 07732 808623 Sunny Smiles pregnancy and postnatal yoga and baby massage classes, tel 07944 029443

Baby and Toddler Music and Dance Babee Ballet, ages 2.5-5yrs. Buzzie Bee Ballet fun! Various locations and times, tel 07889 647338 babyballet Song and Dance Academy, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, tel 07809 148348 Colourstrings Music Classes, Tunbridge Wells, babies - 7yrs, various groups, tel 01892 559319 Dance, craft, story time and Music classes for children aged 18 months-6 years Gymboree Play and Music, Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells, 0-5 yrs, tel 07308 160024 Gymboree Play and Music, Dunton Green, Sevenoaks, 0-5 yrs, tel 07827 910978 Lamberhurst School of Theatre Dance, Tunbridge Wells, tel 07817 290552 Little Notes, Tonbridge School Centre as part of their Recre8 Programme, tel 01892 300103 Mini Boppers, the fun innovative way to keep your kids in shape, tel 07909 984547 Monkey Music - Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Pembury, Hildenborough, tel 01892 671997 Mummy and Me Ballet with Just Dance, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 864517 Musical Bumps Music Classes with traditional songs, lullabies and musical games, tel 01732 321217 Tatty Bumpkin, Yoga and Music 2-7yrs, tel 07511 048803 Top of the Tots, baby/ toddler music, Bessels Green Baptist Church, Sevenoaks, tel 01732 454921

Baby and Toddler Signing and Communication Sing and Sign Baby Signing the fun way, Tunbridge Wells area, tel 01342 836743

Baby and Toddler Swimming Aquatots, baby swimming, Sevenoaks, Halstead, and Otford, tel 020 8688 6488

Daisy First Aid • Winter First Aid Tips

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Baby & Toddler • PreSchooler Activities

Preschooler’s Gym and Physical Play Charlton Football Coaching 3-5yrs, Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, tel 01732 470700 Jumping Beans: Creative, physical and fun classes, 3mths-5yrs, tel 07768 038172 Little Kickers, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, 18mths-7yrs, tel 0208 432 0982 Pre School Gymnastics, 6mths-3yrs with parents or 3-4yrs, tel 01892 540744 Preschool Gymnastics and Trampoline, U5yrs, Angel Leisure Centre, tel 01732 359966 Ready Steady Sport - Multi sport for all children 3yrs upwards, tel 07764 187401 Ruggerbugs, Sports Development inspired by non-contact rugby, 18m-6yrs, tel 01279 797777

Little Fishes, parent and baby/toddler/ children 4ys+, Oxted and Westerham, tel 07834 737211

Evolution Dance Academy, ballet, street, musical theatre, several venues, 2yrs+, tel 07709 348723

SwimKidz NW Kent & Sevenoaks, for Pregnancy, Babies, Toddlers and Children, tel 07809 227637

Firefly Dance School, Ballet, Modern, Tap, National, Irish Boys/Girls, all ages, tel 07734 816989

Puddle Ducks, Swimming classes from 0-4 yrs - Sevenoaks, Hildenborough & Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 617246 Water babies, from birth, Classes held across Kent, tel 01424 892568

Preschooler’s Art and Messy Play Messy Monsters - Messy play company, weekend Sessions, suitable for 6m - 5yrs, tel 07538 952689 Story Sock, arts and crafts, Tunbridge Wells, Langton Green, Crowborough, tel 07957 136270

Preschooler’s Dance and Drama

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy, Kindy Drama, preschool classes, 2½-5 yrs, tel 07587 006176 Inception Dance, fun, lively ballet and dance classes, Hartfield, 2yrs+, tel 07920 181454 Jigsaw Performing Arts, 3-18 years, Sevenoaks, tel 020 8447 4530 KA Dance Academy, Ballet, Tap and Stage, 3yrs+, Crockham Hill Village Hall, tel 07810 443575 Lamberhurst School of Theatre Dance, Tunbridge Wells, tel 07817 290552 Make Believe Sevenoaks: Sing, Act, Dance Ages 3-18, tel 0208 123 7927

Babee Ballet, ages 2.5-5yrs. Buzzie Bee Ballet fun! Various locations and times, tel 07889 647338

Mini Motion, creative parent/toddler classes, Crowborough, T’ Wells, Langton Grn, tel 07734 863791

Babyballet Song and Dance Academy, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, tel 07809 148348

Mummy and Me Tiny Tutus Ballet, 18 mths+, Hildenborough Village Hall, tel 07966 398224

Catherine Bellinger School of Dance, Tunbridge Wells 2yrs+, tel 01892 542549 Diddi dance, funky pre-school dance, Tunbridge Wells, Langton Green, Hastings, tel 07788 246073 Dynamic Dance, for all ages from toddlers, various venues, based in Tonbridge, tel 01732 357518

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Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, Toddlers Gym, tel 01732 470700 Tiggers Trampolining Time, Preschool, Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, tel 01732 470700 Toddler Gym, under 5yrs Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, tel 01732 470700 Toddler Sports, U5yrs, Edenbridge Leisure Centre, tel 01732 865665 Toddler Trampolining under 5yrs Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, tel 01732 470700

Preschooler’s Educational and Multilingual Sessions Caroline Cunnington-King, French tutor, Tonbridge, tel 07884 255749 Kidslingo Preschool French and Spanish, from 18 months, tel 07726 590289

Preschooler’s Multisensory Sessions

Little Notes Music Classes by top notch musicians, tel 01892 300103 Monkey Music - Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Pembury, Hildenborough, tel 01892 671997 Moo Music, Edenbridge and Oxted, tel 07940 503624 Music Bugs, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, tel 07738 878821 Musical Bumps Music Classes with traditional songs and musical games, tel 01732 321217 Pipsqueaks Music, Otford, tel 07951 587806

Preschooler’s Swimming Alison Marks Swim School, Hildenborough, 3yrs+, tel 01732 365440 Aqua Swimming Ltd, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells venues, 3 years+, tel 01732 455800 Puddle Ducks, Swimming classes from 0-4 yrs - Sevenoaks, Hildenborough & Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 617246 Swimming classes from 0-4 yrs Sevenoaks, Hildenborough & Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 617246

Soft Play Centres Buzy Bee’s, Soft Play Area and Café and outside toys, Ash, 0 to 12 years, tel 01474 874118 Edenbridge Leisure Centre 0-4yrs, tel 01732 865665 Little St Sevenoaks, Children’s Role Play Centre, tel 01732 668347 Manic Monsters, The Gardiner Business Park, Edenbridge TN8 6LH, tel 01732 866115 Minor Mania, soft play, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 752042 Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, tel 01892 540744

Baby Massage, Rhyme and Music, Sevenoaks, 4 -18 months, tel 07788 971627

Preschooler’s Music and Movement Brittens Music Colourstrings Kindergarten music classes for 0-7 Tunbidge Wells, tel 07724 466064

Showtime Performing Arts 3.5yrs+ Malling School Oxted School Weekends Only, tel 07749 650222

Family Music Fun 3mths-5yrs Angel Centre, Tonbridge, Friday am’s, tel 01732 359966

Southborough School of Dance, Tunbridge Wells 3yrs+, tel 01892 531632

Hartbeeps, various venues, tel 07795 103197

Theatre Train Mini’s Dance Act Sing 4-5yrs, tel 07710 478246

Humpty Dumpty Club Music and Movement, tel 07860 801173

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Silly Willy Scarlet

PreSchooler Activities • Nurseries & PreSchools Daycare Nurseries BRENCHLEY, Kinderversity Pre-school, wrap around care, holiday clubs, 0-11 years, tel 01892 458231 DUNTON GREEN, Broughton Cottage Day Nursery, TN13, 3 months to 5 years, tel 01732 462339 EDENBRIDGE, Monty’s Day Care, TN8, 3 months-5 years, tel 01732 864629 HILDENBOROUGH, Stables Daycare, TN11, 3 months to 5 years, tel 01732 833266 Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery, Edenbridge High street, 3 months - 5 years, tel 01732 605341 Ofsted Registered Childminder ‘Trish’s Tiddlers’ Please call for availability, tel 07940 029793 PADDOCK WOOD, Barnies Day Nursery, Hop Farm, 3 months to 5 years, tel 01622 872788 PENSHURST, Well Place Day Nursery and Preschool, 3 mths-5 yrs, tel 01892 870118 SEVENOAKS Day Nursery, Otford Road, TN14, tel 01732 460384 SEVENOAKS, Acorns Day Nursery, TN13, 6 months to 5 years, tel 01732 459162 SEVENOAKS, Asquith Nursery and Preschool, TN13, tel 0330 057 6242 SEVENOAKS, Busy Bees Children’s Day Nursery, TN13, 6wks-5yrs, tel 01732 450466 SEVENOAKS, Oakley Day Nursery, TN13, 3 months -5 years, tel 01732 459651 SEVENOAKS, Steps to School Day Nursery, TN15, 3 months - 4 years, tel 01732 780431 SEVENOAKS, Teddies Nurseries, (Bright Horizons), TN13, tel 01732 742252 SOUTHBOROUGH, Asquith Woodlands Day Nursery, TN4, tel 0330 057 9741 SOUTHBOROUGH, Holden Park Preschool, 2 to 5 years, tel 01892 520626 TONBRIDGE, Asquith Nursery and Preschool, Pembury Road, TN9, tel 0370 218 8553 TONBRIDGE, Asquith Nursery, West Kent College, Brook Street, TN9, tel 0330 057 3654 TONBRIDGE, Barnies Day Nursery, Hadlow, TN11, 3 months to 5 years, tel 01732 850033 TONBRIDGE, Hilden Oaks Nursery, TN10, 3mths+, tel 01732 353941 TONBRIDGE, Oaklands Day Nursery, TN9, 4mths-5yrs, tel 01732 353486 TONBRIDGE, Teddies Nurseries, (Bright Horizons), TN9, tel 01732 500565 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Asquith Day Nursery and Preschool, TN4, tel 0333 920 2726 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Bishops Down Primary School Nursery 3+ yrs, tel 01892 520114 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Forest Park Nursery and Pre-School, TN2, 0-5yrs, tel 01892 512313 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Little Cottage, Breakfast / Tea available, 2-4 yrs, two sites, tel 07702 180487 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Little Rascals Nursery, TN1, 6 months-5 years, tel 01892 313245

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Nuffy Bear Day Nursery, Knights Park, TN2, tel 01892 882795 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Rainbow Creche and Nursery, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, TN4, tel 01892 517215 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St Georges’ Childrens Project Nursery, TN4, babies-5yrs, tel 01892 543982 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Teddies Nurseries, (Bright Horizons), TN4, tel 01892 531128 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, The Green Cave Organic Day Nursery, TN1, 14mths-5yrs, tel 01892 800033 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, The Tunbridge Wells Nursery and Montessori PreSchool, 3mth-5yrs, tel 01892 540068

Montessori Nurseries

SEVENOAKS, Hollybush Montessori Nursery, TN14, tel 07984 133318 SEVENOAKS, Moniques Montessori Day Nursery, tel 01732 452931 Trillium Montessori House, Nursery PreSchool, Paddock Wood, 2-5 Years All Year, tel 07848 855820 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, New World Montessori, Linden Park Cricket Club, Fir Tree Road, tel 07787 155247 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, The Tunbridge Wells Nursery and Montessori PreSchool, 3mth-5yrs, tel 01892 540068

Sessional Preschools and Nurseries BIDBOROUGH, Village Nursery School, Village Hall, TN3, 2 to 5 years, tel 07517 145731 CHIDDINGSTONE, Chiddingstone Nursery School, TN8, 2 to 4 years, tel 01892 871315 EDENBRIDGE Nursery School, Edenbridge Primary School, 3 to 4 yrs, tel 01732 863787

PENSHURST, Penshurst Pre-School, Village Hall, 2 -5 years, tel 01892 870250

SEVENOAKS, Weald PreSchool, Church Road, tel 01732 450272

RIVERHEAD, St. Mary’s PreSchool Group, Village Hall, tel 07502 428413

SOUTHBOROUGH, Holden Park Preschool, 2 to 5 years, tel 01892 520626

RUSTHALL, Holding Hands Pre-School Nursery, 2-5 years, tel 01892 513777

EDENBRIDGE, Church House Preschool, Rickards Hall, tel 07748 673798

SEAL, Top Banana PreSchool, 2-4 years, tel 07958 528808

SOUTHBOROUGH, Southborough Preschool, Community Centre, Crundwell Rd, 2-5 years, tel 01892 538666

EDENBRIDGE, Marsh Green Preschool, St John’s Church, tel 01732 864553

SEVENOAKS, Bradbourne Park PreSchool, grds of Sevenoaks Primary, 2¾ to 5 years, tel 01732 779149

SPELDHURST, Speldhurst Nursery School, St Marys Lane, 2-5 years, tel 01892 860577

SEVENOAKS, Chevening School Nursery, TN13, 2½-5 years, tel 01732 452342

The Little Learning Tree Preschool @ Salvation Army TW, for children 2-5 years, tel 07948 085991

EDENBRIDGE, St Paulinus PreSchool, 2-5 years, tel 07796 795811 FORDCOMBE, Fordcombe PreSchool, Village Hall, tel 07895 472610 FRANT, Frant Nursery School, 2 to 5 years, tel 01892 890961

SEVENOAKS, Halstead Nursery, Otford Lane, TN14, 2-5 years, tel 07950 681846

Groombridge, Groombridge PreSchool, tel 01892 861113

SEVENOAKS, Pipkins Nursery School Chevening, TN14, 2-5 years, tel 07480 832356

HADLOW Community Pre School, 2 to 5 years, tel 01732 853225

SEVENOAKS, Platt School Nursery, TN15, 2-5 years, tel 01732 886600

HARTFIELD, Hartfield Playschool, am and pm sessions, 2 -5 years, tel 01892 770830

SEVENOAKS, Plaxtol Nursery School, TN15, 2½-5yrs, tel 01732 811395

HILDENBOROUGH, Stocks Green Preschool, TN11, 2½ to 5years, tel 01732 834115 HILDENBOROUGH, The Oaks Nursery, Riding Lane, TN11, tel 01732 834401 LANGTON GREEN, Village House Nursery, Village Hall, tel 07935 156969

SEVENOAKS, Radnor House Nursery, 2.5 years +, tel 01959 563720 SEVENOAKS, Spring Board PreSchool, TN13, 2 years 3 mths-4 years, tel 01732 452039

TONBRIDGE, Brenchley Preschool Limited, 2-5 years, tel 01892 724261 TONBRIDGE, Capel Preschool Playgroup, tel 01892 833363 TONBRIDGE, Delarue Crickets Pre-School (2-5 Years), Welland Rd, TN10 3TD, tel 07496 288372 TONBRIDGE, East Peckham Preschool, tel 01622 871268 TONBRIDGE, Happy Faces PreSchool, Hectorage Rd, TN9, 2 to 5 years, tel 01732 368823 TONBRIDGE, Horsmonden Kindergarten, 2-5 years, TN12, tel 01892 724805

SEVENOAKS, St Lawrence PreSchool, TN15, tel 01732 763354

TONBRIDGE, Longmead Nursery (Robin Class), 3-5 years, tel 01732 350601

PADDOCK WOOD, Scalliwags PreSchool, tel 01892 835980

SEVENOAKS, Steps to School Day Nursery, TN15, 2 - 4 years, tel 01732 780431

TONBRIDGE, Playaway Preschool, Cage Green School, TN10, tel 01732 354325

PEMBURY School House Nursery, TN2, 2-5 years, tel 01892 825580

SEVENOAKS, The Children’s Workshop, TN13, 2-5 years, tel 01732 741391

Little Fosse Nursery, Fosse Bank School 2-3yrs, tel 01732 834212

TONBRIDGE, Roselands Preschool, Woodlands School Grounds, TN10, tel 01732 368580

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Nurseries & PreSchools Kent Baby Matters

TONBRIDGE, Sevington Playgroup, TN9, tel 01732 367391 TONBRIDGE, St Margaret Clitherow Catholic Nursery School, TN9, 2-5 yrs, tel 01732 358000 TONBRIDGE, STEPS, St Stephens Church Pre School, Waterloo Road TN9, tel 01732 363642

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Little Dragon’s Playgroup at St George’s, tel 01892 543982

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Niven Lodge PreSchool Nursery, Tunbridge Wells TN2, tel 01892 547259

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Little Owls, Toch Hall, tel 07840 977238

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Number One Pre School, Number One Community Centre, TN2, 2-5 yr, tel 07747 052348

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Little Rascals Preschool, TN1, 2 -5 years, tel 01892 313244

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Bishops Down Primary School Nursery 3+ yrs, tel 01892 520114

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Manor Road PreSchool, tel 07972 739852 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Nivan Lodge PreSchool, King Charles the Martyr Hall, 2-4 yrs, tel 07563 908977

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Hawkenbury Nursery School, Forest Road, tel 07833 772857

TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Papillon Nursery School, TN1, 2 to 5 years, tel 01892 537723 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St Augustine’s Nursery, TN4, tel 01892 542783 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St Georges’ Childrens Project Nursery, TN4, babies-5yrs, tel 01892 543982

BISHOPS DOWN NURSERY SCHOOL



From Age 3



Beautiful Outdoor Space



30 hours Funding Available



Qualified Teacher Led



Cooked School Dinners



Woodland Explorers



Wrap Around Care from



Extra Buy In Private Sessions

(Forest School)

07:30-18:00 Contact Jo Sheldon for information or to book a tour 01892 520114 jsheldon@bishops-down.kent.sch.uk www.bishopsdownprimary.org Rydal Drive, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9SU

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St James’ Church PreSchool, TN2, tel 07905 276612 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St Matthew’s High Brooms PreSchool, Church Hall, TN4, 2-5 years, tel 07768 518191 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, St. Luke’s Nursery School, St Luke’s Church Hall, TN4, 2½4yrs, tel 01892 619955 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, The Rocking Horse Nursery, TN1, 2 yrs+, tel 01892 532704 TUNBRIDGE WELLS, The Tunbridge Wells Nursery and Montessori PreSchool, 3mth-5yrs, tel 01892 540068

Independent Schools • Primary Schools

Independent Schools Beechwood Sacred Heart, Tunbridge Wells 3-18yrs, tel 01892 532747 Fosse Bank School and Fosse Bank

Sacred Heart School, Wadhurst 3-11yrs, tel 01892 783414 Sevenoaks Preparatory School, 2½-13 years, tel 01732 762336

Primary Schools Bishops Down Primary School,

Paddock Wood Primary School, Paddock Wood, tel 01892 833654

Tunbridge Wells, 3-11 years,

Pembury Primary School, 4-11 years,

tel 01892 520114

tel 01892 822259

Brenchley and Matfield Primary

Penshurst Primary School, Penshurst

School, Tonbridge TN12, 4-11 years, tel 01892 722929

TN11, tel 01892 870446

Broadwater Down Primary School, Tunbridge Wells TN2, 4-11 years, tel 01892 527588

tel 01732 882596

Cage Green Primary School, Tonbridge, 4-11 years, tel 01732 354325

Seal Primary School, Seal, 5-11 years,

Edenbridge Primary School, 4 to 11 years, tel 01732 863787

Sevenoaks Primary School, TN13, 4-11

Fordcombe Cof E Primary School, Tunbridge Wells TN3, tel 01892 740224

Shoreham Village School, Sevenoaks

Kindergarten, Hildenborough 2-11yrs,

Sevenoaks School, co-ed, day and

tel 01732 834212

boarding, 11-18yrs, tel 01732 455133

Hilden Grange School, Tonbridge, co-ed,

Solefield School, boys, Sevenoaks TN13,

3-13 years, tel 01732 351169

4-13yrs, tel 01732 452142

Hilden Oaks School and Nursery,

Somerhill Pre-Prep at The Schools at

Tonbridge 3mths-11yrs,

Somerhill, Tonbridge TN11, co-ed, 3-7

tel 01732 353941

yrs, tel 01732 352124

Holmewood House School, Langton

St Michael’s Preparatory School, Otford

Green, Tunbridge Wells 3-13yrs,

3-13yrs, tel 01959 522137

tel 01892 860000

The Granville School, Sevenoaks girls

Kent College Prep School, Pembury 2.5-

3-11yrs boys 3-4yrs, tel 01732 453039

11yrs, tel 01892 822006

The Mead School, Tunbridge Wells TN2,

Kent College Senior School, Pembury

co-ed, 3-11yrs, tel 01892 525837

TN2, 11-18yrs, tel 01892 822006

The Schools at Somerhill, 3 schools, pre-

New Beacon School, Sevenoaks, boys

prep co-ed, boys 3-13yrs, girls 3-11yrs,

4-13yrs, tel 01732 452131

tel 01732 352124

Radnor House Prep School, Sevenoaks,

The Schools at Somerhill, Derwent

tel 01959 564320

Lodge, Tonbridge TN11, girls, 7-11 years,

Ightham Primary School, 4 to 11 years, tel 01732 882405

Radnor House Senior School, Sevenoaks,

tel 01732 352124

Kemsing Primary School, 4 to 11 years,

Tunbridge Wells TN4, tel 01892 529796

tel 01959 563720

The Schools at Somerhill, Yardley Court,

tel 01732 761236

St George’s C of E Voluntary Controlled

Rose Hill School, Tunbridge Wells,

Tonbridge TN11, boys, 7-13 years, tel 01732 352124

Langton Green Primary School, tel 01892 862648

Primary School, 4 to 11 years,

3-13yrs, tel 01892 525591 Russell House School, Otford, Sevenoaks,

Tonbridge School, boys, day and

St James School, 7- 11 years,

tel 01959 522352

boarding, 13-18 years, tel 01732 365555

Long Mead Community Primary School, Tonbridge, 3-11 years, tel 01732 350601

Sackville School, Hildenborough 11-

Walthamstow Hall, Sevenoaks 3-18yrs,

Longmead Community Primary School,

St Johns C of E Infant School, Sevenoaks

18yrs, tel 01732 838888

tel 01732 451334

tel 01732 350601

TN13, tel 01732 453944

Four Elms Primary School, Edenbridge, 4 to 11 years, tel 01732 700274 Ide Hill Cof E Primary School, Sevenoaks, 4-11 years, tel 01732 750389

Platt Primary School, TN15, 4 to 11 years, Rusthall Primary School, TN4, tel 01892 520582 tel 01732 762388 years, tel 01732 453952 TN14, 4 to 11 years, tel 01959 522228 Southborough C Of E Primary School, tel 01892 529682 Speldhurst C of E Primary School, 4-11years, tel 01892 863044 St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School,

tel 01732 882401 tel 01892 523006

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13

What is Heuristic Play?

What is Heuristic Play?

by Stacey Appleby @what_dorothy_does Throughout the world play is the primary way babies and young children learn, it is the universal language of childhood. Living in a western society means we have access to a large variety of commercial toys. However, why is it when we give our child a present they are more interested in the box? Could it be that this actually provides your child with a greater learning experience than the toy you just purchased?

Children in less affluent societies do not have access to the same number of manufactured toys, and will play with unconventional items. Research has shown that all children’s play is meaningful and the learning outcomes are equal if not greater when a non commercial product is being used.

Children learn through exploration of their environment, using all of their senses, and the human brain thrives when provided with varied sensory stimuli.

Commercial toys are often full of visual stimulus, but lack other sensory experiences. Items of plastic food may look different, but to a child a plastic apple tastes and smells the same as a plastic chicken. Eleanor Goldschmied the founder of heuristic play stated, that children cannot understand the world around them if they are not given the opportunity to feel it.

The word heuristic is defined as ‘to discover or gain an understanding of’, meaning heuristic play is an opportunity for babies and nursery aged children to explore without active adult interaction. By using non commercial items, we create open ended play opportunities which nurtures children’s natural curiosities, as there is no set way to play with the object. This type of play is fundamental in supporting children in all of their developmental areas.

If we go back to the box mentioned at the beginning, this could support children’s expressive arts and design development, as it can become a drum kit, a rocket or a house. Alternatively they could explore shape, space and measurements to see what can fit inside the box, developing their mathematical skills. The role of an adult within heuristic play is to source collections of items and provide uninterrupted time to play with out distractions. As parents we want to help our children achieve, we frequently will turn a puzzle piece around so it fits, but their learning is greater if we allow them to freely explore. Heuristic play is totally child led, this allows them to think critically and creatively to find out what can be done with each object.

Just as there is no one way to play with heuristic items, there is also not a set list of what to include.

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What is Heuristic Play?

Heuristic resources are individual and therefore will vary. Collections are not static and items can be changed throughout the year. I will often alter items to follow the seasons or to facilitate a particular interest my daughter has shown. Recently she showed an interest in balls, so I created a basket of objects that rolled differently, including lemons, kitchen roll tube and a bobbin. When selecting your resources try to incorporate lots of different sensory elements, below are some examples of what you could use: • Wooden items: bowls, spoons, spatulas, honey drizzler, boxes, large buttons, curtain rings, bobbin, wooden egg, mug tree, dolly peg • Cardboard items: boxes, kitchen roll tubes, egg box, sellotape ring • Plastic items: plant pots, costume jewellery, bottles, ping pong ball, ice cube tray • Natural Items: fir cones, pine cones, shells, citrus fruit, conkers, natural sponge, sticks, cork, stones • Textures: ribbon, hair roller, loofah, fur, leather, brushes, exfoliating mitt, silk scarf • Metal items: tins with and without lids, chains, jar lids, bangles, saucepan, cake tin, muffin tin, colander, kitchen utensils Resources will differ depending on the age of your child, be mindful of their developmental stages and check items for damage before use. Even though this is a child led activity, they should be monitored at all times to ensure their safety, but with limited adult interaction.

Heuristic play supports the uniqueness of all children and we can provide it for free by using items we already own. We lead busy lives and are often engaging with our children or using independent play time as an opportunity to pop the washing on, however heuristic play provides you with the opportunity to sit back and watch your child learn. You will see their thought process and how exploratory play puts in the building bricks of learning. Also you can have that opportunity to drink your coffee whilst it’s still hot!!

Follow us on Instagram @What_Dorothy_Does for more play ideas and feel free to message us with any questions. I really hope you have found this inspiring and interesting and mostly have a chance at enjoying heuristic play with your little ones!

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15

Primary Schools • Private Tutors St John’s Cof E Primary School, Tunbridge

Joe’s Academy of Music: music for all ages and abilities, Tunbridge Wells, tel 07938 226435

Wells TN4, 4-11 years, tel 01892 678980 St Katharine’s Knockholt Church of

Timothy Lowe ARCM, FISM Expert piano and theory tuition, tel 07588 549622

England Primary, Sevenoaks TN14, 4 to 11 yrs, tel 01959 532237

TW Music School: Drum, Guitar, Bass, Vocal Piano, tel 01892 750157

St Lawrence C of E Primary School, Sevenoaks TN15, 4 to 11 years, tel 01732 761393

Activities for additional needs children

St Mary the Virgin C of E Primary School, Hartfield, 4 to 11 years, tel 01892 770221

Bradbourne Riding Centre (Riding for the Disabled), Sevenoaks, tel 01732 453592

St Michael’s Primary School, Withyham, 4 to 11 years, tel 01892 770307

Arts and Crafts

Temple Grove Academy, Tunbridge Wells, 4-11 years, tel 01892 520562 Weald Primary School, come and visit us just outside Sevenoaks to find out more. tel 01732 463307 West Kingsdown CE Primary School, 4 to 11 years, tel 01474 853484 Woodlands Primary School, Tonbridge, tel 01732 355577

Tutoring, standard school subjects and 11+ 1:1 tuition; Maths, English, piano and 11+ for all ages. Free trial lessons, tel 0800 1120303

Little Springers: Baking, cooking, Crafts, Gardening, Music 3yrs+, tel 07768 466327

Foreign Language Tuition

Sevenoaks English Language Centre,

Caroline Cunnington-King, French

english for foreigners, tel 07717 214041

and Spanish Tutor, Tonbridge,

Spanish for children, Edenbridge rea,

tel 07884 255749

native teacher, tel 07917 744515

Elisabeth Reichert-Eckersley,

Tonbridge Russian School, Beginners

conversational german tuition,

to GCSE and A-level, 10yrs experience,

tel 01342 811099

3yrs+, tel 07715 559035

Fable Languages Spanish for all ages and

Instrumental and Vocal Tuition

abilities, tel 01892 543094

11+ mock tests and revision courses Tunbridge Wells run by experienced tutors, tel 07517 861487

German Saturday School, Tonbridge

Caroline Stinton, Piano, Bassoon

Kidslingo Preschool French and Spanish,

and theory lessons, Tunbridge Wells,

to 11yrs, tel 07726 590289

tel 01892 524315

11+ Training, KS1-KS3 English, Maths, Science, Mock 11+, Summer Courses, tel 07759 045444

My Spanish Tutor, One to One Online

Classical singing lessons Tunbridge Wells

Spanish Tuition for All Ages and

from beginners to advanced. all ages,

Levels, tel 07545 018144

tel 01892 538453

Basketball

English all ages to A level/IB, Creative Writing, French, tel 07786 392763

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre 14-15yrs,

Exams Access Arrangements Assessor (Y5-Y13) available now West Kent/ Sussex, tel 07504 939649

Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, under

tel 01732 470700 16s, tel 01892 540744

Circus Skills

Extra Tuition Centre, all over Kent, 11+, tel 0800 9174194

Showtime Performing Arts 3.5yrs+

First Class Learning in Sevenoaks maths and English tuition for all ages, tel 07760 419307

Malling School Oxted School Weekends

Fleet Tutors: Britain’s Leading Tutoring Service Provider, tel 0333 920 9629

Chimera Climbing Centre, a vibrant and

IELTS Exam Lessons. 1:1 with very experienced teacher. Tunbridge Wells area, tel 07504 939649

tel 01892 457294

Only, tel 07749 650222

Climbing modern public amenity, Tunbridge Wells, Clip n Climb, Indoor climbing arena for adults and children, tel 01732 753330

Kip McGrath, English and Maths Tuition, Tunbridge Wells, 6-16 years, tel 01892 458184

Extreme Ventures, outdoor rock climbing courses, nr Tunbridge Wells, 6yrs+, tel 07835 528548

Kumon Maths, Sevenoaks, tel 01342 851221

Kent and Sussex Climbing

Kumon Maths, Tonbridge, tel 01622 817544

Indoor, Climbing Academy 6yrs+,

Lyn Wurf private tutor - I teach primary Maths/English/touch typing from my home, tel 07792 052292

Kids @ Chimera, minimum age 5 years

Student Support Centre, home based study in English and Maths,

Nuts 4 Climbing Outdoor Climbing

tel 01892 673167 (under 16’s adult supervision required), tel 01892 457294 activities, tel 01892 860670

tel 0800 999 6999

The Climbing Experience Fun Wall

Tutor English GCSE. Very experienced teacher. Tunbridge Wells area, tel 07504 939649

16

and Bouldering Gym, Maidstone 4+, tel 01622 677977

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A-Z Activities for Children

Robin Hood Cookery Smart Raspberry West Kent, Children’s Cookery Classes -Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks, ages 2-16, tel 07904 108591

Cricket Tunbridge Wells Cricket Club 7yrs+, tel 01892 825513

Cascade Dance: Ballet, street,

Firefly Dance School, Ballet, Modern,

Just Dance: Ballet, Modern, Tap, Street

contemporary, Tunbridge Wells and

Tap, National, Irish Boys/Girls, all ages,

Dance, Musical Theatre, Tunbridge

Sevenoaks, tel 07540 724027

tel 07734 816989

Wells, tel 01892 864517

Catherine Bellinger School of Dance,

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy,

KA Dance Academy, Ballet, Tap and

Tunbridge Wells 2yrs+, tel 01892 542549

Otford, Sevenoaks, 5-18yrs,

Stage, 3yrs+, Crockham Hill Village Hall,

D2Dance School: Ballet, Modern, Street,

tel 01689 812336

Singing, Tap, Musical Theatre 3yrs-adult, tel 07709 173256

Inception Dance, fun, lively ballet and dance classes, Hartfield, 2yrs+,

tel 07810 443575 Kent College Theatre Academy, Theatre and Drama lessons, 5-18yrs, tel 01892 822006

Cycling

Dance Academy Sevenoaks, RAD Ballet

CYCLEme TOTS, Mid-Kent Classes, 2-7 years, tel 07739 389281

3yrs+, tel 01732 469806

Italia Conti, Tunbridge Wells,

Dancing Boutique, 82 Victoria Road,

tel 01892 529112

Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 529720

Jigsaw Performing Arts, 3-18 years,

Make Believe Sevenoaks, Sing, Act,

Dynamic Dance, for all ages from

Sevenoaks, tel 020 8447 4530

Dance Ages 3-18, tel 0208 123 7927

toddlers, various venues, based in

JPA Academy, Acting Singing Dancing

Medway School of Dance, Tonbridge,

Tonbridge, tel 01732 357518

Academy 6-18yrs, tel 07870 460687

Latin Ballroom and Disco Dance 3 yrs+,

Evolution Dance Academy, ballet, street,

tel 01732 358355 School, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells,

Southborough and District Wheelers, 8yrs+, tel 01892 537758

Dance and Theatre Arts Act II Academy of Drama & Performing Arts, LAMDA Teaching in the Sevenoaks Area, tel 01732 463293

Cont tap Modern, Commercial Jazz,

tel 07920 181454

Cannon Irish dancers 2yrs+,

musical theatre, Edenbridge area, 2yrs+,

Judy Hamlet School of Dance, Kemsing - Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Street for 3yrs+,

tel 07977 500673

tel 07709 348723

tel 07971 679055

Lamberhurst School of Theatre Dance, from babies to adults, Tunbridge Wells, tel 07817 290552

Pauline Quirke Academy Summer tel 07961 387798 Perform weekly drama, dance and singing class for 4-7yrs and 7-12yrs, tel 020 7255 9120 Razzamataz FREE TASTER SESSIONS in Singing Dance & Drama for ages 2-18, tel 07401 801318 Showtime Stage Schools now in Kent & Medway, Sat & Sun 4-18yrs Free Trials, tel 01732 430300 SJ School of Dance Academy 5yrs+, tel 07880 499801 Southborough School of Dance, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 529720 Stagecoach Performing Arts, 4-16 yrs, Tonbridge, tel 01444 456208 The Dance Studio, 2.5yrs+ Ballet, Tap and Jazz. T Wells, Paddock Wood, Otford, tel 07812 565826 The Talentz Musical Theatre 5-16yrs, tel 07899 998249 Theatre Train Dance Act Sing 6-18yrs, tel 07710 478246 Trinity Youth Theatre 8-18yrs, tel 01892 500673

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17

A-Z Activities for Children VR School of Dance, Ballet, Street

Edenbridge leisure Centre, Stangrove

Jazz, Modern, Musical, Sevenoaks,

Park, Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 5LU,

tel 07539 551568

tel 01732 865665

Fencing

Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre,

Junior Fencing, School ages, Angel

Mascalls Court Rd, Tonbridge TN12 6NZ,

Centre, Tonbridge, tel 01732 359966

tel 01892 838290

Royal Tunbridge Wells Fencing Club, 7

Sencio Community Leisure Centres,

years +, tel 07786 000488

Edenbridge, tel 01732 865665

First Aid Courses for Children

Sencio Community Leisure Centres, Sevenoaks, tel 01732 470700 Sencio Community Leisure Centres,

Daisy First Aid Tunbridge Wells &

Swanley, tel 01322 662188

Sevenoaks, Family First Aid Classes,

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre: pool,

tel 07939 507662

gym, sports hall, crèche, martial arts,

British Red Cross, tel 0800 028 0831

tel 01732 470700

St John Ambulance Kent, enquiries,

Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre,

tel 0344 770 4800

tel 01892 540744

Fitness and Activity Clubs

Wildernesse Sports Centre, Seal Hollow

‘A’ Team Fun Club, 5-12yrs,Sat 09:30-

Pure Football Academy, Additional

12:00, Angel Centre, Tonbridge,

Training, Kent & Sussex, 18mnths -

tel 01732 772685

14yrs, tel 07872 864016

At home fun Mama & Baby/child

The Rondos Advanced Football

workouts, suitable for all ages incl,

Academy, 5-18yrs, Hildenborough,

prenatal, tel 07707 346552

tel 01892 822554

Mummy & Me Pilates Classes every

Toddler Football, up to 4yrs,

Wednesday at 11am at Pembury

lessons 5-18yrs, tel 01892 822006

Edenbridge Leisure Centre,

Pavilion, tel , tel 07876 787869

tel 01732 865665

PreSchool, Juniors, 7-11yrs and Tramps,

tel 01342 302192

Ruggerbugs, St Gregory’s School,

5-14yrs, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre,

Tonbridge Invicta FC, New! Girls

tel 01892 540744

Football for 11yrs+, football club and

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, Gymnastics,

Frontier School of Karate and Kickboxing (FSK), Crowborough, 3yrs+, tel 01273 702662

coaching, tel 07891 626537

4-16yrs, tel 01732 470700

Tunbridge Wells Foresters FC,

Hockey

Tunbridge Wells, Sat am. 9am-noon, tel 01279 797777 Sarah’s Runners, Nevill Pavillion Cricket Ground, TN2 5ES, minimum age 17 years, tel 07900 825836 Saxons Orienteering, Juniors to Adults, various venues, tel Contact through website Sevenoaks Nordic Walking, tel 01732 453271 Target Shooting School - Term time

Football Club and coaching 5yrs+, tel 07718 393138 Tunbridge Wells Ladies FC, Girls Football 5-16yrs, tel 07801 045941 Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, Fun Footie 5-7yrs, Girls 11-14yrs, Junior U16yrs, tel 01892 540744

Golf

Gymnastics Gymnastic Club Kent, Tunbridge Wells, all ages, tel 01892 550530 Gymnastics, Angel Leisure Centre, Tonbridge, tel 01732 772685 Kent College Gymnastics Academy Gym

Tunbridge Wells Hockey Club 6-16yrs, tel Email via website Tunbridge Wells Inline Hockey Club 6yrs+, tel 01892 535439

Horseriding Bradbourne Riding Centre, Sevenoaks, tel 01732 453592

Road, Sevenoaks, tel 01732 451437

Martial Arts, Self Defence Bushido Judokan, Tunbridge Wells 5yrs+, tel 07823 441460 Fortitude Taekwond Tunbridge Wells, Martial Arts for ALL ages and abilities in Tunbridge Wells. FREE TRIAL,

Martial Arts South East Juniors, Tunbridge Wells, tel 07986 825817 Oaks Martial Arts, 3yrs+, Sevenoaks, Hildenborough, Edenbridge, tel 01732 759988 PPCKD Self Defence for children as young as 3.5 years. Fun, fitness and friends, tel 07590 559421 Sama Karate Kids Karate 4yrs+ and Kickboxing 10yrs+, tel 01444 461889

Hever Castle Golf Club 5yrs+,

Tonbridge, tel 01732 852204,

Sevenoaks KJK Club (Karate Jutsu Kai), all ages from 5 yrs, tel 07976 482384

tel 01732 700771

tel 01732 853588

Shinseido Karate, Riverhead Parish Hall,

Hilden Golf Centre, Tonbridge 3yrs+,

Matfield and District Riders Association,

Sevenoaks, 18yrs+, tel 07710 437485

tel 01892 540744

tel 01732 833607

5yrs+, tel 01892 836058

Vision Taekwondo, Tunbridge Wells

Football

Knole Park Golf Club, Sevenoaks,

Orchid Riding School, 6yrs+, Tunbridge

Sports Centre 3yrs+, tel 01892 540744

junior membership 11-17 years,

Wells, tel 01892 652020

tel 01732 452150

Riding Farm Equestrian Centre, 4yrs+,

Multiple Sports

classes, holiday workshops, parties 8-18 yrs, tel 07426 301849 TeenFit and Junior Spin 11-15yrs, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre,

Charlton Football Coaching 3-13yrs, Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, tel 01732 470700 D&D Footie Focus, weekend and

Hadlow College Equestrian Centre,

Lamberhurst Golf Club, Tunbridge Wells 6yrs+, tel 01892 890591 Nevill Golf Club, Tunbridge Wells 6yrs+,

Hildenborough, tel 01732 838717

EXCEL Fitness Programme, 11-

South Farm Riding Stables, 5yrs+, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 864807

tel 01732 359966

16yrs, Angel Centre, Tonbridge,

tel 01892 525818

Wellgrove Farm Stables, Pembury 3yrs+, tel 01892 822087

Kickstart Fitness mixed games

years, tel 07969 669153 First Class Football: Advanced

Poult Wood Golf Centre, Tonbridge

White Rocks Farm Western Riding, near

tel 01732 772690

Football Skills Coaching 2yrs+,

8yrs+, tel 01732 364039

Sevenoaks, tel 01732 761888

Langton Green Community Sports

tel 07929 861394

Tonbridge Golf Centre 3yrs+,

Leisure Centres

Association, tel 01892 862967

Little Kickers, Tunbridge Wells,

tel 01732 353281

Angel Leisure Centre, Angel

Multi sports for 3-16yrs 3rd Sun 13:00-

Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, up to 7

Wildernesse Sports Centre, Sevenoaks,

Lane, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1SF,

14:30 Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre,

years, tel 0208 432 0982

tel 01732 451437

tel 01732 359966

tel 01892 540744

evening football coaching for 2½ to 8

18

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5-10yrs, Angel CentreTonbridge,

A-Z Activities for Children Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, 5yrs +,

RTW Monson Learn To Swim

Edenbridge Sub Aqua Club, Edenbridge

Hildenborough Village Hall, six rooms for

tel 01892 540744

(Level 3-competitive swimming),

Leisure Centre, 14yrs+, tel 07702 473898

hire, tel 01732 833092

Music Groups, Centres

tel 07779 703317

Yoga

Horsmonden Village Hall,

Brittens Music School, Tunbridge Wells,

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, Classes and

Banana Studio Yoga, Kids Yoga & Teens

tel 01892 723955

Yoga, tel 07834 518619

Langton Village Hall, tel 07581 471147

Yoga in primary schools to nurture

Mencap Hall, Hitchen Hatch Lane,

tel 01892 559319

fun swimming, tel 01732 470700

Singing Mamas Choir Fridays 1.30pm

Starfish School of Swimming all ages and

at Brittens Music - all women welcome,

abilities, Sevenoaks, tel 01732 834186

tel 07724 466064

Tonbridge Swimming Pool, Castle

fitness, tel 07914 837102

Outdoor Pursuits Centres

Street, indoor and outdoor pools,

Youth Clubs

Bowles, Eridge Green nr Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 665665

Out of School Clubs Hubbub Out of School Club, After School Childcare 3-6pm, tel 07942 937006

Rollerblading and Skateboarding Tunbridge Wells Tigers Inline Roller Hockey 7yrs+, tel 01892 535439

Rugby

tel 01732 367449 Tunbridge Wells Sports and Tennis, Swimming classes for all ages, tel 01892 540744

Table Tennis Byng Hall Table Tennis Club 7yrs+, tel 07768 742414

Tennis Evolution Tennis Coaching at Brenchley and Matlock Tennis Club Juniors, tel 01622 532354 Jarrett Tennis School at Tunbridge

Rugby Tots for 2-7 yr olds, weekday and weekend classes throughout West Kent, tel 0345 3130807

Wells Sports and Indoor Tennis Centre, tel 01892 538445 Jarrett Tennis School for 5-14yrs,

Tunbridge Wells RFC Girls Rugby Years 7-13 girls only / Years R-6 Mixed, tel 07753 933936

Snow Sports

Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 538445 Oakbury Tennis Club Juniors, Sevenoaks,

5-18yrs, tel 01892 546252

Tunbridge Wells Squash Rackets

Tennis Academy, Tonbridge and

Club - Junior Squash and Racket Ball,

Sevenoaks, tel 01959 523377

tel 01892 527736

Tunbridge Wells Lawn Tennis Club,

Wildernesse Sports Centre, Sevenoaks,

tel 01892 525625

tel 01732 451437

Trampolining

Angela’s Swim School, Sevenoaks, tel 07703 185837 Aqua Swimming Ltd, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells venues, tel 01732 455800 Edenbridge Leisure Centre Swimming, Classes and fun swimming, tel 01732 865665 Helens Swimming School, 4 months +, tel 01892 662484 Holmewood House Swim School 5yrs+, Langton Green, tel 01892 860035 Little Fishes, parent and baby/toddler/ children 4ys+, Oxted and Westerham, tel 07834 737211

Ashurst McDermott Village Hall, tel 01892 740618 Bells Yew Green Village Hall, tel 01892 543025 Benenden Village Hall, tel 07419 989830 Bessels Green Baptist Church, Bessels

tel 01732 458775 Pembury Baptist Church Hall, Pembury, tel 01892 825590 Pembury Village Hall, tel 07983 228181 Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre, Paddock Wood, tel 01892 838290 Rickards Hall, Edenbridge, tel 01732 865368 Showfields Hall, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 514544 Speldhurst Village Hall, tel 07786 948952

Green, Tonbridge, tel 01732 454921

St Barnabas Church Hall, Tunbridge Wells

Bidborough Village Hall,

St Dunstan’s Church Hall, Southborough,

tel 07517 145731

tel 01892 529158 01892

Brenchley Memorial Hall,

St James Church Hall, Tunbridge Wells,

tel 01892 832579

tel 01892 521703

Camden Centre - Tunbridge Wells,

St John the Baptist, Sevenoaks,

tel 01892 521384

tel 01732 541710

Short Tennis, Tunbridge Wells Sports St Johns Tennis Club, Tennis Courses,

Hildenborough, 3yrs+, tel 01732 365440

Hall and Room Hire

Cowden Memorial Halls, 2 halls,

Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 665665

Alison Marks Swim School,

tel 03000 418008

Copt Hall, Hawkhurst, tel 01580 752058

Centre 4-10yrs, tel 01892 540744

Swimming, Pool Sports

The Hub, South Tonbridge,

tel 07821 621403

Dry Ski Slopes at Bowles, Eridge Green nr

Squash

physical & mental wellbeing. Mindful

kitchen and car park, day and evening, tel 01342 850532 Delarue Hall and Barn, weekend and bank holiday hire, tel 01732 367917 Delarue Hall, Tonbridge, Hire for all occasions, tel 01732 367917 Dunton Green Village Hall,

St John’s Church Hall, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 540897 St John’s Methodist Church, Southborough, tel 01892 544578 St Luke’s Church Hall, Sevenoaks, tel 01732 743045 St Mary’s Church Hall, Riverhead, tel 01732 450408

tel 01732 469610

St Matthew’s Church Hall, Tunbridge

Edenbridge WI Hall, tel 01732 865368

Wells, tel 01892 618108

Frant Memorial Hall, tel 01892 752123

St Paulinus Church Centre, Edenbridge,

Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre, Paddock Wood 5yrs+, tel 01892 838290

Groombridge Village Hall,

tel 01732 864070

tel 07552 170679

St Peter’s Church, Tunbridge Wells,

Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, Trampolining, 4-15yrs, tel 01732 470700

Hadlow Old School Hall,

tel 01892 327734

tel 01732 851878

St Philip’s Church, Tunbridge Wells,

Edenbridge Leisure Centre, trampolining coaching 5-16yrs, tel 01732 865665

Trampolining, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, tel 01892 540744

tel 01892 531031 St Stephen’s Church Community Centre,

Wildernesse Sports Centre Trampolining,

Tonbridge, 3 halls, tel 01732 771977

Sevenoaks, tel 01732 451437

Sunnyside Hall, Rusthall, Tunbridge

Uniformed Groups

Wells, tel 08450 743399

Girlguiding UK for your nearest Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Rangers, tel 0800 999 2016 Scoutbase UK for nearest Beaver, Scout, Venture, Air and Sea, tel 0345 300 1818

Watersports

TN2 Community Centre, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 538230 Tonbridge Christ Church Centre,

Dame Tuck

tel 01732 770334 Trinity Youth Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 500673

Penguin Swim School, Walthamstow

Bewl Water Outdoor Centre: canoeing,

Hall, Sevenoaks 2yrs+ 07795 177214 /,

sailing, wind surfing etc, 8 years +,

Wesley Centre, Paddock Wood,

tel 01892 535438

tel 01892 890000

tel 01892 521384

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19

Everything Party...

Party Venues Angel Leisure Centre, Tonbridge, tel 01732 359966

Private Tutoring

Birthday experiences at Bowles, Eridge Green nr Tunbridge Wells, tel 01892 665665 Diggerland, Medway Valley leisure Park, Roman Way, Strood ME2 2NU, tel 0871 22 77 007 Edenbridge Leisure Centre, tel 01732 865665 Extreme Ventures, outdoor rock climbing/scrambling, nr Tunbridge Wells, 6yrs+, tel 07835 528548 Manic Monsters, Soft Play, Edenbridge, tel 01732 866115 Parties at Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, tel 01892 540744 Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre Paddock Wood, tel 01892 838290 Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, tel 01732 470700 Temper Temper Chocolate, Chocolate workshops and parties, tel 01892 538758 Wildernesse Sports Centre, Seal Hollow Road, Sevenoaks, tel 01732 451437 Woodland Parties, the perfect woodland venue for children’s parties, tel 07889 094821

Party Supplies and Planners Moondreamers is a luxury Teepee sleepover company providing for East Sussex/Kent, tel 07943 958937 Party Bag Online, your one stop shop for personalised filled party bags, tel 07976 728857 Twilight Tents provide beautiful themed Tent Sleep Over Party packages, tel 07710 078467 Walking Balloons offer a great variety of animal balloons that walk beside you, tel 07763 860066 Wishful Winks provide a stress free sleepover party experience, tel 07957 491146

D&D Footie Focus, football themed parties, 5 to 12 years, tel 07969 669153 Dance Parties for girls and boys, aged 3-12yrs. One or two hours available, tel 01892 864517 Dandelion and Clover Yoga - Yoga and art parties with a theme of your choice, tel 07734 435708 diddi dance parties for pre-school children, tel 07788 246073 Enchanted Events, magical party & events entertainment, styling & catering, tel 07788 998441 Face and body painting, glitter designs and tattoos. Surrey Kent & Sussex, tel 07931 935539 First Class Football Parties 2yrs+, tel 07929 861394 Froggle Parties, drama games, dancing, story telling, balloon models, prizes, tel 0208 617 9070

Froggle Parties, face painting, glitter tattoos, any kind of designs, tel 0845 0504509 Funky Footsteps, high energy disco parties, games, facepainting & fun!, tel 07912 685680 Hartbeeps the most original musical parties on the planet, tel 07795 103197 Humpty Dumpty Club Musical Parties, tel 07860 801173

Party Catering, Cakes Sprinkles Cakery, bespoke Cakes for all occasions with free delivery in Tunbridge Wells area, tel 07720 986299 Clever Cooks, Catering and China Hire, tel 07768 993456 Large selection of partyware, balloons & cake decorating in Tunbridge Wells, tel 01622 717177 Vintage Afternoon Tea served in your own venue perfect for that special occasion, tel 07545 807031

Party Entertainers Allsortsoffun, Pirate, knight, spy party, magic, puppets, tel 07845 320001 Angels’n’Divas, Pamper Parties for girls (4-16yrs), tel 07771 964626 Buzy Bee’s, themed parties such as Frozen, Princess, Football and more, 0-12 yrs, tel 01474 874118 Captain Fantastic Parties, Parties for 3 - 7 year olds, tel 07540 539190 Childrens party entertainer and magic shows, Kent, Sussex and Surrey, 4-11 years, tel 07734 101987

20

Jumping Beans Parties, tel 07768 038172 Kazzamataz comedy magic show, crazy games and dance routines, tel 07859 015231 Little Kickers, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, 18mths-7 yrs, tel 0208 432 0982 M Sporti Football and Multisports, tel 07920 780983 Mini Motion dance parties, Crowborough, Tunbridge Wells, Langton Green, 3-7 yrs, tel 07734 863791 Moondreamers is a luxury Teepee sleepover company providing for East Sussex/Kent, tel 07943 958937 Music Bugs: Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, tel 07738 878821 Nuts 4 Climbing Outdoor Climbing activities, tel 01892 860670 Once Upon a Wish Events - Events and Party entertainment tailored to suit you!, tel 07739 584988 Perform Parties for 4-7 years are high energy, fun and totally infectious, tel 020 7255 9120 Princess and the Pea Events, fun singing & dancing character packages, tel 07557 145648 Ready Steady Sport - Multi sport for all children 3yrs upwards, tel 07764 187401 Show Offs Parties: Circus Acts, Balloon modelling, themed parties, tel 07749 650222 Stagecoach Parties, tel 01444 456208 Story Sock Parties, for 2-6 years, tel 07957 136270 Superstar Pamper Parties exclusive pamper parties for girls aged 5-14 years, tel 07941 509495 Vintage Afternoon Tea served in your own venue perfect for that special occasion, tel 07545 807031 Zebadee Kidz Parties Tonbridge, one stop shop for all your entertainment needs!, tel 07773 066645

Holiday Schemes and Activities Time out Bags for Kids, activity packs for kids, crammed with snacks and travel activities, 3-10 years, tel 07798 773960

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Holiday Schemes & Activities

Angel Centre, Tonbridge - Drop in fun sessions, tel 01732 359966 Aqua Swimming Ltd, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells venues, tel 01732 455800 Barracudas - Activity Day Camps, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Maidstone, tel 0845 123 5299 Bewl Water Outdoor Centre, kids camps, variety of activities, 4 years+, tel 01892 890000 Bishops Down Holiday Play Scheme, Tunbridge Wells, 3-11yrs, tel 01892 520114 Camp Beaumont Holiday Camps, Kent College, Tunbridge Wells, tel 01603 851000 Funtech.co.uk - Summer Tech camps, Tonbridge, tel 01628 621216 Hubbub, School Holiday Childcare, education, fun & adventure, High Brooms, tel 07942 937006

Junior Summer Golf Camps, Poult Wood, Tonbridge. 7-14yrs, tel 01732 364039 M Sporti Football and Multisports, tel 07920 780983 Nuts 4 Climbing Outdoor Climbing activities, tel 01892 860670 Perform, holiday activities and workshops, tel 020 7255 9120 Pied Piper Activities, tel 01273 504485 Play ‘n Grow holiday club is a new club based in Southborough for 2-11 yrs, 8am-6pm Tue to Thu, tel 07727 692645 Premier Playscheme - action packed activity days, several venues, tel 01953 499 040 Recrea8 Tonbridge, , tel Sporting & Creative term time and holiday courses, tel , tel 01732 304123 Southeast Kids Camps, activity day camps across Sussex/Kent - Children 4-12 yrs, tel 01444 461889 Super Camps, holiday activities in Sevenoaks and Tonbridge, tel 01235 467300 Target Shooting School - Term time classes, holiday workshops, parties 8-18 yrs, tel 07426 301849 Workshops & science activities, school summer holidays, tel 01323 832731

Family Days Out Chartwell, family home and garden of Sir Winston Churchill, Westerham, tel 01732 868381 Chiddingstone Castle, Edenbridge Kent TN8 7AD, tel 01892 870347 Emmetts Garden, an Edwardian estate, tel 01732 868381

Groombridge Place, moated manor house, fun things to do for families, tel 01892 861444 Heaven Farm, nature trail, camping, tea room, family fun, tel 01825 790226 Hever Castle and Gardens, Edenbridge, tel 01732 865224 Penshurst Place and Gardens, the medieval Baron’s Hall is one of the grandest, tel 01892 870307 Quebec House, the birthplace of General James Wolfe, tel 01959 567430 Spa Valley Railway, journey through the High Weald countryside, tel 01892 537715 The Hop Farm Family Park, full of attractions, Paddock Wood, tel 01622 872068 Tonbridge Castle, Motte and Bailey Castle with a splendid 13th Century Gatehouse, tel 01732 770929

Places to Visit

Chartwell, family home and garden of Sir Winston Churchill, Westerham, tel 01732 868381 Chiddingstone Castle, Edenbridge Kent TN8 7AD, tel 01892 870347 Creams Café, T-Wells, Geltao, Waffles, Sundaes, Crepes, Indulge your senses, tel 01892 680059 Diggerland, Medway Valley leisure Park, Roman Way, Strood ME2 2NU, tel 0871 22 77 007 East Grinstead Museum - Kid’s activities and exhibitions take place all year, tel 01342 302233 EM Forster Theatre, Tonbridge, tel 01732 304241 Emmetts Garden, an Edwardian estate, tel 01732 868381 Groombridge Place, moated manor house, fun things to do for families, tel 01892 861444

Hever Castle and Gardens, Edenbridge, tel 01732 865224 Kent Life Heritage Farm, tel 01622 763936 Kent Wildlife Trust, lots of events for the whole family, Sevenoaks, tel 01622 662012 Penshurst Place and Gardens, the medieval Baron’s Hall is one of the grandest, tel 01892 870307 Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Hythe CT21 4LR, 50 species of animals to see, tel 01303 264647 Quebec House, the birthplace of General James Wolfe, tel 01959 567430 Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Sevenoaks, tel 01732 459777 Scotney Castle, National Trust, Lamberhurst, Kent, tel 01892 893820 Spa Valley Railway, journey through the High Weald countryside, tel 01892 537715 The Hop Farm Family Park, full of attractions, Paddock Wood, tel 01622 872068 The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceaux, tel 01323 832731 Tonbridge Castle, Motte and Bailey Castle with a splendid 13th Century Gatehouse, tel 01732 770929 tel 01689 861603 Go Ape, Bedgebury, high-wire Tree Top Adventure and Tree Top Junior, tel 01603 895500 Godstone Farm, so much to do, a great family day out, tel 01883 742546 Heaven Farm, nature trail, camping, tea room, family fun, tel 01825 790226 Leeds Castle, 900 years of history, 500 acres of beautiful parkland and gardens, tel 01622 765400 The Llama Park at Ashdown Forest with Christmas Wonderland, Wych Cross, tel 01825 712040

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21

NSPCC Returning to School post COVID-19 Advice from the NSPCC Returning to school post Covid-19 Coronavirus has had a huge impact on young people’s lives. Not being able to go to school and see friends means many have lost their support network.

Between January and May this year Childline volunteers delivered nearly 7,000 counselling sessions with children worried about Covid-19.

Most schools are open again now and it’s only natural for children to worry about how things will be different, catching up on missed schoolwork and keeping safe and following social distancing.

Advertising on our website costs from between £3.50 and £6.50 per week.

Our minimum advertising period is just one week!

If you are interested in short term online advertising, contact me at James@thefamilygrapevine.co.uk

The following advice can help put them at ease: Write it down Encourage them to write down worries and anything they’re excited about. Urge them to show the list to a trusted adult (could a parent/ carer or teacher) so they can help them.

Talk about lockdown A lot has happened while they were off. They might have started to feel down or even lost friends or family members. Talking about it can help.

Let your feelings out There are plenty of tools on the Childline website to help children and young people express what they’re feeling when they can’t find the words.

Visit childline.org.uk and try the mood journal or art box.

Take your time It’s going to take a while to adjust to being back at school. It’s ok if it doesn’t feel comfortable at first. Once they’re home from school, make sure they do something each day that they enjoy.

Volunteer Childline counsellors are available online and over the phone, free and in confidence, call 0800 1111 or visit www.childline.org.uk.

22

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WEST KENT

Volunteering with the Girl Guides Inspiring girls in West Kent "I love volunteering with Guides for the opportunities it provides to learn new skills and to learn from the girls...it's reminded me how much fun life can be – it’s easy for us adults to forget!"

Jess, Edenbridge Guides.

Did you know that volunteering can actually make you feel healthier and happier? Volunteering is incredibly rewarding. It can boost your mental health, lead to new friendships, and can even help you develop the skills you need to excel in your career. The trick is to choose a way to volunteer that relates to your interests and aspirations.

Volunteering with Girlguiding Girlguiding is the leading charity for girls and young women in the UK. Girls get incredible benefits from being an active part of their community and having their own space. They learn skills, discover new interests, develop their confidence and have a lot of fun!

“I used to be really shy. My Brown It’s the Girlguiding volunteers who make this possible for the Owl helped me learn to be braver.” – girls in their local community. Leaders and helpers support girls by providing experiences and opportunities within the setting of Evie, Brownie their local Rainbows, Brownies, Guides or Rangers units.

Volunteering in West Kent The Holmesdale district is an area of West Kent that includes Edenbridge as well as multiple villages such as Chevening. In this area a committed and enthusiastic team of Brownie and Guide leaders and helpers make a remarkable difference to local girls.

There are current opportunities for new volunteers to join the Holmesdale district as Brownie and Guide leaders and helpers.

Wouldn’t it be amazing to combine your aspirations with inspiring girls in West Kent?

Your unique skills and interests will be valued and help girls grow and have fun.

Find out more about volunteering opportunities with Girlguiding in West Kent.

Email holmesdalegirlguiding@gmail.com or visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/getinvolved

“I love Guides. I recently got to cook on a Blitz oven, make a video about a local campaign and had a Mocktail party! My leaders are really kind and helpful. They make everything fun and encourage me to have a go.” – Lydia, Guide

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Fun Stuff !!

s Kid

Winter Word Search Winter Wonderland

Words to find BAUBLE CAROL

CRACKER ELF HOLLY PRESENT REINDEER

Ingredients • 100g/3½oz unsalted butter, softened at room temperature • 100g/3½oz caster sugar • 1 free-range egg, lightly beaten • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 275g/10oz plain flour To decorate • 400g/14oz icing sugar • 3-4 tbsp water • 2-3 drops food colourings • Edible glitter

SANTA SLEIGH SNOWMAN STOCKING

WINTER

CAN YOU WORK OUT THESE WINTER WORDS? Answers

words can be in any direction

MISSING LETTERS 1 2 3 4

S - AT- N G G-O -TS-O-B-LL B-I-Z-RD

Method • Preheat the oven to 190C/375F/Gas 5. Line a baking tray with greaseproof paper.

• Cream the butter and sugar together in a bowl until pale, light and fluffy.

• Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, a little at a time, until well combined.

• Stir in the flour until the mixture comes together as a dough.

• Roll the dough out on a lightly floured work surface to a thickness of 1cm/½in.

• Using biscuit cutters or a glass, cut biscuits out of the dough and carefully place onto the baking tray. To make into Christmas tree decorations, carefully make a hole in the top of the biscuit using a straw.

• Bake the biscuits for 8-10 minutes, or until pale golden-brown.

Set aside to harden for 5 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.

For the icing • Sift the icing sugar into a large mixing bowl and stir in enough water to create a smooth mixture. Stir in the food colouring.

• Carefully spread the icing onto the biscuits using a knife and sprinkle over the glitter. Set aside until the icing hardens.

Recipe from BBC Foods

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5 6 7 8

C-ES-N-TS M-S -L-T-E TU-K-Y T-N-E-

1-SKATING 2-GROTTO 3-SNOWBALL 4-BLIZZARD 5-CHESTNUTS 6MISTLETOE 7-TURKEY 8-TINSEL

These Christmas biscuits makes perfect presents and they can also be made into Christmas tree decorations. Makes 36 biscuits Preparation time is less than 30 mins - Cooking time is only 10 to 30 mins

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Fun Stuff !!

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Upcoming Events in West Kent *With the current Govt restrictions in place please ensure you check openings and any restrictions before travelling Christmas at Bedgebury, November 20 – December 31 This family-friendly one-mile magical festive trail in the heart of the High Weald AONB countryside will once again be awash with colour. Christmas at Bedgebury is full of seasonal surprises and shimmering reflections that cast light on beautiful silhouettes of majestic trees www. christmasatbedgebury.co.uk Christmas at Hever Castle, November 21 – December 18 With welcoming log fires, and beautiful decorations in the Castle, a Christmas trail to follow and the chance to see Father Christmas – be enchanted by the magic of Christmas at Hever www.hevercastle.co.uk Winter Fair South of England Showground, November 21 – November 22 Visitors can shop till they drop with a plethora of artisan goodies from local, independent traders. It’s not just about the shopping though; families are sure to enjoy the live music, festive entertainment, and of course the traditional funfair www.seas.org.uk Glow Wild, Wakehurst, November 26 – December 30 Join us at Wakehurst on a spellbinding winter lantern trail for all ages.

As darkness falls, the gardens are brought to life with glowing lanterns, mesmerising projections, immersive soundscapes, and glistening torches of fire www.kew.org/wakehurst Christmas Market Leeds Castle, November 28 – December 20 Visit the Christmas Market on the lawn overlooking the Castle to discover a splendid array of seasonal gifts, toys, festive decorations, specialist food and drink www.leeds-castle.com Christmas Farmers and Craft Market, Reuthe’s The Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks, December 4 – December 6 Offering fresh local produce and gifts over 3 days of festivities. Santa and his elves will also be paying us a visit, you can book tickets to see him at www.reuthes.com Robin Hood & His Socially Distanced Merry, EMF Theatre, December 18 – January 3 The EM Forster Theatre and Wicked Productions have been planning hard to bring you a Covid safe festive family show 'Robin Hood and his Socially Distanced Merry Men' www.emftheatre.com For your chance to win a family ticket for four to see Robin Hood at the EMF Theatre, visit our Competition page at www.thefamilygrapevine.co.uk/west-kent

For lots more regularly updated family events in West Kent

click here

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