® SouthWest March/April 2016

Easter holiday activities

BABY feature How to build PREP SCHOOLS resilience in children SPECIAL Three parties children Find the perfect childcare love but you hate MINDFULNESS Should your child learn it?

Really useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in SW London ® 25 YEARS Find us online: FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk 2 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Nurturing and developing young people's potential through dance, drama and singing. Fo r 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

Stagecoach Schools enrolling now Battersea 020 8946 2986 Fulham 0845 202 5727 Merton Park & Tooting 020 8942 3502 Putney 0845 265 7050 Wimbledon 020 8946 3400 www.stagecoach.co.uk

March/April 2016 ® 3 Noddy’s Nursery Schools in Putney and Southfields

OPEN Monday to Friday 07.20 - 18.30 51 weeks a year

T: 020 8785 9191 E: [email protected] www.noddysnursery.co.uk 2 Gwendolen Avenue, Putney, London, SW15 6EH Trinity Church Hall, Beaumont Road, London, SW19 6SP

4 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Contents Families® SW London | March/April 2016 | Issue 254

FEATURES

09-18 Education •School Open days •How to build Resilience in children •School news •Talking in the classroom

24-27 Childcare Feature

•Your rights as working parents Monkey Music Monkey Check out our Baby and Childcare feature pages 24-32 •Help with finding the perfect childcare •What’s new in childcare?

IN EVERY ISSUE 28-32 Baby Feature •Developmental milestones 06-07 Local news •Gentle Osteopathy •Local baby services: shops, jewellery, yoga, 08 Families ‘Top 5’ this month antenatal workout, charities etc •Why do women fear childbirth? 45 Health and well being Mindfulness is the big buzz, should your 33-39 Easter Activities Listings child do it? Arts & crafts, music, dance, drama, sport, revisions courses, FREE activities etc 49-54 What’s On •Diary dates & events 40-43 Parties Feature •Theatre •Three parties children love but you hate •Museums and galleries •Six great party bag fillers •Days out •Your local party entertainers

54 Classified 46 Make a cress head

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

March/April 2016 ® 5 Please tell Local news advertisers you saw them New fun French group in in Families Earlsfield It makes a HUGE difference Club Petit Pierrot has opened of a new fun Thank you French Parent & Toddler group (1-3 year olds) at Eddie Catz, Earlsfield, on Thursdays from 9.45am to 10.15am.

Welcome a new Eddie Catz soft play centre! Parents & toddlers learn together in ½ hour lessons, interacting in French the whole time. Family favourite Eddie Catz has opened a new softplay centre in SW London. The company Activities specially adapted to the language has taken over the much loved Earlsfield based It’s A Kid’s Thing, now offering a 2-tier play development of this age group; songs, dances, structure, daily classes for 0-4 year olds, plus seasonal events and, of course, party hire. ‘We rhymes, multi-sensory activities, games, are delighted to take over from It’s A Kid’s Thing,’ said Eddie Catz founders Maria and Darren puppets…all great fun!! Johnson, ‘and preserve and build on what they have created. The centre is much loved by the Free trial session. ( 7385 5565 local community and we hope to continue to deliver great parties, food and service.’ : clubpetitpierrot.co.uk 279 Magdalen Road SW18 3NZ, ( 8739 0909, : eddiecatz.com Try Time Rugby Try Time Rugby have created rugby-based games and activities that increase kids enjoyment of sport as well as develop them physically. They believe passionately that their rugby play sessions will give children the attributes they will need to go on and play the next level of rugby... or indeed any sport. They cater for children from 2yrs to 7yrs. Wandsworth, Dulwich, Richmond. ( 01252 794150 : trytimekidsrugby.com Turmeric and black Does your child get 'tech pepper paste headaches'? Did you know? Turmeric is a miracle New research shows that two-fifths of parents admit herb. It is also one of the most their children suffer from ‘tech headaches’, according researched spices today with more to a study conducted by Optical Express. The study than 600 possible health benefits: suggests that children complain of headaches after powerful antioxidant, anti- spending a prolonged period of time in front of an inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-fungal, electronic screen, especially televisions, computers anti-bacterial and more. We’ve just and smartphones. ‘Sometimes, headaches bought on learnt from a breast cancer sufferer, as a result of prolonged exposure to an electronic who adds it to her diet regularly, that screen will indicate that a child has an underlying when combined with black pepper, problem with their eyesight, and these should not be turmeric releases its maximum ignored,’ said Dr Steve Schallhorn, Chief Medical benefit. Director of Optical Express. ‘We are urging parents 1/4 cup Turmeric Powder who have even the slightest concerns about their 1/2 tsp. Ground Black Pepper child's eye health, or those whose children haven't 1/2 cup Water been tested for a while, to take them to a local opticians during the holidays in order to put their Measure the ingredients into a small minds at rest.’ Do also make sure your child never saucepan and heat over medium-high sits next to your router, this is where the radiation is heat until a paste forms. Store in a at its highest and never sleeps next to a smartphone, small jar in the refrigerator. Always even turned off. check if this is suitable for you.

6 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Local news

New London museum Coming soon! Keep your eyes peeled for London’s newest heritage attraction, The Postal Museum and Mail Rail. Due to open later this year, London’s first new national museum in over a decade will offer 7 interactive exhibition New boutique/café/ spaces covering five centuries of social and workhub in Fulham communications Check out the new boutique Cuckoo Hibou history, plus an in Parsons Green. It is a café with a underground ride on the hidden Mail Rail! Try on a uniform, ride a five-wheeled cycle or find difference – a relaxing place to eat and meet out about the attacking lioness! Alongside the museum a dedicated learning space will enable friends, plus a boutique gift shop with toys, 10,000 school children a year to visit and learn about the ingenuity of the British postal service, books and stationery, and a range of classes and its impact in shaping the world we live in today. Find out more at : postalmuseum.org for children ranging from music, drama and French speaking to arts and crafts and yoga. Learn to sew They even have baby massage and nutrition classes. It’s a new nest for the whole family in Sign up now for the new After School the heart of Fulham, and all with a French Sewing Club from Sew Me Pretty. twist. ‘We are looking forward to offering Kids aged 7-12 can get stuck into fun families a warm and welcoming space where projects including appliqué cushions, we care for children and parents can simply tote bags, pencil cases, buntings, felt relax,’ says owner Alice. 181 New Kings toys, skirts and much more. Classes Road SW6 4SW : cuckoohibou.com take part on Mondays 4.30-6pm, materials included. For older kids and teenagers book now for the Young Designers Sewing Club, Mondays 6.30- 8pm, where they can use patterns to make clothes. Classes take place in Wimbledon - find out more at : sewpretty.me.uk or call ( 07714 252660

Ready, get set, bake! Get hands-on in the kitchen at new Cooking with Kids workshops from Mini Cooking Club. These free Arts workshops in workshops are for young children and families, where trainee cooks learn new skills and see their confidence in Chelsea cooking grow. Best of all, you get to eat what you have The Little Art Society specialises in fun and cooked at the end of each session! The council-funded creative arts and craft workshops and programme will teach you how to cook two healthy dishes birthday parties for children. Workshops per session, plus kitchen hygiene, safety and nutrition and are held on Saturday mornings 9am -12pm in healthy eating. For ages 7-11, Saturdays 11am-1pm at Chelsea and some holiday dates. Please visit London Cooking Project, 1 Ethelburga Street SW11 1AG, the website to book a place on to their next email to book your place workshop : thelittleartsociety.co.uk [email protected] : theminicookingclub.org.uk

Is your child a future Adele? Develop your And have you got what it takes to win the 2016 Young Songwriter Competition? Now open for intelligence with music entries across the UK, the competition is open to songwriting talent aged 7-18 - in fact anyone who has written their own original song. And why not ask a professional songwriter to give you feedback lessons and tips on how to develop your songs before you enter? You can receive written feedback on your Learning an instrument helps develop general song, or even book a drop-in session at Song Academy’s Brook Green venue. Find out more at intelligence, research has shown —but of : songacademy.co.uk, competition deadline 9 April 2016, entry only £5. course the main reason for learning is enjoyment and personal fulfillment. Mark Lester is a piano teacher based in Wandsworth, with over 20 years' experience teaching children and adults. He combines the best of traditional teaching with an emphasis on creativity and improvisation. Call for a chat on ( 8870 7830

March/April 2016 ® 7 Families ‘Top 5’ this month The Easter holidays are approaching, but here are our some of our top picks to keep you and your family entertained before and during the big break.

Hunt for chocolate in the Cutty Sark! King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT 1 www.rmg.co.uk 25-28 March. Easter Egg Hunt Cutty Sark’s chickens have been laying their eggs in some strange places, but how many can you spot around the ship? Join in the hunt for a chance to win a family ticket to Camp Bestival.

Admissions fees apply, ©National Maritime Museum all ages welcome.

4 Collection © The Wallace Paint at and draw at Visit RHS Garden Wisley The Wallace Collection Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB rhs.org.uk Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN Just down the A3, Wisley is perfect 2 www.wallacecollection.org for a day out from SW London. 29 and 31 March. 19 March – 10 April Painting Portraits Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt Learn how to paint a portrait using acrylic paints with Hop through the garden on the trail artist Alison Kusner. A wonderful session for all ages, of the Lindt gold bunny. Follow the 10.30am-3.30pm, £12 per child. clues to lead you to a delicious treat 3 April for your best Easter ever! Bring your The Little Draw family along and join in with arts & Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities. craft sessions every day from 25th Exploring the Wallace Collection through drawing and March to 10th April. doodling on to discarded materials inspired by both the 9–10 April museum's collection and building. FREE Birds of Prey Weekend Bring the whole family to discover all about birds of prey. See the magnificent birds up close, with agility displays at 11am and 2pm. 15 April: National Open Gardens Day Free opening of the Garden to all visitors.

Packed day at the Horniman Museum and Gardens 3 100 London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk 5 26-27 March. Easter Fair Hop around the Design your own T-shirt Gardens with the HMS Belfast Horniman Bunny, go on The Queen's Walk SE1 2JH an Easter Egg trail, take www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast part in craft activities, 25 March – 10 April. discover what’s in their Tattoo T-Shirts

arts and crafts market, Coevorden Cliff Van Impress your friends and family by designing your very

visit the Farmers’ © own t-shirt, inspired by traditional Navy tattoos, and the Market for seasonal produce (Saturday only), and enjoy food, drink, and more. sailor legend of Davy Jones's Locker. Family fun for all. 10.30am–4.30pm, free entry, suitable for all ages Sessions 11am–12.30pm and 2–4pm, all ages.

8 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 March/April 2016 ® 9 10 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Sinclair House School www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

School Open Days Call to book your place now

Hill House School SW1 Falkner House SW7 White House Prep School SW12 4-13 Co-Ed Tours every weekday morning in 4-11 Girls Open days by appointment 4-11 Co-Ed Tours Tuesday mornings at term time, 8.30am booking required ( 7373 4501 9.15am ( 8674 9514 book in advance ( 7584 1331 : falknerhouse.co.uk : whitehouseschool.com : hillhouseschool.co.uk The Hampshire School SW7 Hornsby House School SW12 St Matthew’s CE Primary School SW1 3-13 Co-Ed Tours of main school on 4-11 Co-ed 10/3 9am 4-11 Co-Ed Tours Monday mornings 10am, Wednesdays at 9am and of Early Years School ( 8673 7573 : hornsbyhouse.org.uk call to book ( 7504 0500 on Mondays and Thursdays at 1.30pm : stmwschool.org.uk ( 7352 7077 Broomwood Hall Upper School SW12 : thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk 8-13 Girls 21/5 9-11am ( 8682 8830 Francis Holland School SW1 : broomwood.co.uk 4-18 Girls Senior School Open Morning Ravenstone Prep School SW7 16/3 9am ( 7730 2971 : fhs-sw1.org.uk 4-11 Co-Ed Pre-Prep 8/6 Prep 9/6 booking Ibstock Place School SW15 required ( 7225 3131 3-18 Co-Ed Pre-Prep and Prep 27/4 and 15/6 Streatham & Clapham Prep School SW2 : ravenstoneschools.com 9.30am Senior School 11/5 5-7pm booking 3-11 Girls Nursery and Prep School 3/5 9am- required ( 8876 9991 / 8392 5803 10.45am ( 8677 8400 : schs.gdst.net St. Nicholas Preparatory School SW7 : ibstockplaceschool.co.uk 2-10 Co-Ed 9/3 9.30am, plus Open House Bonneville Primary School SW4 every Wednesday and Thursday during term The Lion House School SW15 3-11 Co-Ed Tours by prior appointment time 9.30-10.30am book in advance 3-7 yrs 23/4 10am-12pm ( 8780 9446 ( 8673 1183 ( 7225 1277 : lionhouseschool.org.uk : bonneville-primary.lambeth.sch.uk : stnicholasprep.co.uk Broomwood Hall Lower School SW16 Fulham Prep School SW6 Redcliffe School SW10 4-8 Co-Ed 19/5 9-10.30am ( 8682 8830 4-13 Co-Ed Pre-Prep 15/3 and 23/6 9.30- 3-11 Girls 3-8 Boys Tours Tuesdays and : broomwood.co.uk 11am call to book a place and time slot Thursdays during term time 9.30am booking ( 7371 9911, Prep School tours by required ( 7352 9247 : redcliffeschool.com The Roche School SW18 appointment only ( 7386 2444 2.5-11 Co-Ed 11/3, 6/5 and 22/6 9.30-11am : fulhamprep.co.uk Dolphin School SW11 ( 8877 0823 : therocheschool.co.uk 4-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings most Thursdays Kensington Prep School SW6 9.15-10.30am by appointment ( 7924 3472 St Anne’s C.E. Primary School SW18 4-11 Girls 4/5, 12/5, 24/6 and 22/6 1.45pm : dolphinschool.org.uk 4-11 Co-Ed 21/4 and 9/6 booking required Open days are for girls registered for 4+ ( 8874 1863 : st-annes.wandsworth.sch.uk entry in September 2017. Please telephone Northcote Lodge SW11 the Registrar Mrs Bonner on ( 7731 9300 to 8-13 Boys 21/5 10am-12pm ( 8682 8888 The Study Prep School SW19 reserve an Open Day place. Deadline for : northcotelodge.co.uk 4-11 Girls Tours on Tues morns by appt registration for 4+ entry in 2017 is 30th ( 8947 6969 : thestudyprep.co.uk September 2016 ( 7731 9300 The Dominie SW11 : kensingtonprep.gdst.net 6-11 Co-Ed Tours by appointment Please Wimbledon Common Prep SW19 contact the school to find out more about (also known as Squirrels) 4-7 Boys Parsons Green Prep SW6 their specialist teaching for dyslexic children 11/5 call to book ( 8946 1001 4-11 Co-Ed Midweek tours on Thursdays at ( 7720 8783 : thedominie.co.uk : wimbledoncommonprep.co.uk 9am by appointment only ( 7371 9009 : parsonsgreenprep.co.uk Thames Christian College SW11 Willington Independent SW19 Co- ed 27/4 11am-1pm ( 7228 3933 Preparatory School 4-13 Boys 23/3 booking Sinclair House School SW6 : thameschristiancollege.org.uk essential ( 8944 7020 : willingtonschool.co.uk 2-13 yrs Co-ed 10/5 10-11.30am and nursery 11/5 9.30-11am London Steiner School SW12 The London Acorn School SM4 ( 7736 9182 3-14 Co-Ed Open Day 27/4, please call for 3-14yrs Co-ed 18/3 1.30-3.30pm & : sinclairhouseschool.co.uk details ( 8772 3504 : waldorflondon.co.uk 6.30-8.30pm : thelondonacornschool.co.uk

March/April 2016 ® 11 12 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Prep school feature Don’t tell children what to think, teach them HOW to think

By Elvire Hairy, Chelsea Marketing Consultant Today, one of the main concerns of school heads is the growing number of “cotton wool” children, surrounded by “helicopter” parents who, by over protecting and over tutoring, hamper children from developing their natural resilience.

Theory of Intelligence developed by Carol Dweck, author of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, the idea that we can grow our brain's capacity to learn and solve problems. She demonstrates that the ability to learn is not fixed, and it can change with effort. In her study, children who were taught about the brain, and how it changes in response to challenges are more likely to persevere when they fail. This is because these students didn't feel as though failure is a permanent condition - making them more resilient! Developing a growth mind set Children need ritualised time at home Siobhan McGovern, manager at Beau Peeps’ nursery, told us: All the school heads agree, resilience can’t be taught to children as a “Children need to learn how to make their own risk assessment. They need topic. It is a quality, inherent to their development, that they only learn to explore, to have the time to do things on their own and to know that it is by experiencing it, and that from a young age. Mrs Griggs, Falkner all right to make mistakes”. Unfortunately children are constantly rushed House Head teacher: “We can’t feed children resilience, it is an approach about. They don’t have the time to achieve the smallest tasks – though to life. We want our nursery children to learn how to be independent. For each one is crucial to their development. Mr Cummings, the White example they need to learn how to put their socks on; they need time, House School Headmaster, is adamant: “Failure is a learning opportunity patience and attention from their parents”. Unfortunately, “children don’t and a step to success, children will develop a growth mind-set from it. They have the time anymore” adds Mr Brennan, “and they need ritual: it need to be allowed “to struggle through” and to solve their own problems”. nourishes them, and gives them time to explore things at their own pace”. Mr Cummings agrees: “They need time in shared family experiences”. Children need to learn how to spell disappointment Parents are role models Mrs Griggs is clear: “Parents need to be involved in their child’s education, Pressure is high, reaching an unprecedented level, to enter the top they can’t delegate everything. Most importantly they need to believe in London academic schools and children are asked to perform at their themselves as role models.” Mrs Prest adds: “It is the parents’ best, continually. “Children don’t know how to fail anymore” says Mrs responsibility to be strong enough to show resilience but also to equip the Prest, Headmistress of the Merlin School. “We need to teach them children to be resilient.” Mr Cummings concludes: “By demonstrating that it is OK to make mistakes. The Merlin’s spirit is to have a go, and and modelling resilience in their own approach to life, parents will give the always to look for the positive coming out of it” she adds. Donal best example a child can have.” The parent’s role is to encourage, to Brennan, the Hampshire School Headmaster explains: “Children need stimulate, to educate—to push if necessary, to say no and to explain to learn how to cope with failure, and then to grow up from it. They need boundaries to their children. to learn how to spell disappointment”. Elvire Hairy – Strategy and Education Consultant – : chelseamarketingconsultant.com

March/April 2016 ® 13 14 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Prep school feature Local schools News Newton Prep selected for cosmic classroom launch Sophie Atkinson, a Year 3 pupil, has been selected from amongst thousands, to be linked live with Tim Peake on board the International Space Station (ISS) and ask him a question, along with another ten other children. Three hundred children in all, from around ten schools, took part at Liverpool’s World Museum in this one-off session with a live stream of the event on the TES website. “We are so excited to be part of this extraordinary, once in a lifetime event” said Stuart Wilson Head of Science of Newton Prep. : newtonprepschool.co.uk Helping teenagers to turn social media to their Unique holistic school set in a park The London Acorn School is a advantage small, OFSTED outstanding, holistic Rather than ignoring the growing social media school for 3-14 year olds, set in phenomena, Thames teaches pupils how to use National Trust gardens in Morden social media to their advantage in a safe and Hall Park. beneficial way. They recognise that whilst connecting online can enhance relationships, it can The school follows the unique, also put pressure on young people. In this successful model of The Acorn impersonal world it is easy for relationships to School in Nailsworth, Glocs (est. break down and bullying to occur. 1991) also consistently graded “At Thames we help pupils develop good social skills outstanding by OFSTED. Amazingly and navigate friendships, online and off. Our Year 11s students do not sit external exams. are learning to use the tool CV+ and how to build a Their high-level work speaks for strong positive online presence. This will enable them itself: every Acorn student applying to present themselves in a fun and mature way to for university has been accepted on the basis of their extensive final year project. future employers.” They have recently introduced ‘Thinking In the lower school, education is centered on the children’s own experiences of art and craft, Breakfasts’ where pupils gather over hot chocolate music, carpentry and spending plenty of time outdoors, not in front of screens. Academic and croissants to discuss a modern day moral or work is introduced at the age of seven, like many Scandinavian countries. The children are value-based dilemma. A recent topic on social happy and make rapid progress, reporting there is “nothing” they would change. media, song lyrics and music videos provided a forum for pupils to explore how online culture can The school has spent a low-key three years whilst establishing their core team. They are now affect them. looking to expand and have spaces for 6-14 year olds. The school plans to extend to age 18. : thameschristiancollege.org.uk “Pupils’ outstanding achievement owes much to an approach to learning and personal development that is centered on their physical and emotional well-being and their moral and spiritual development.” OFSTED (2014) : thelondonacornschool.co.uk Dolphin School news Dolphin School looks forward to welcoming Mrs Little green fingers at Sinclair House School Nicola Baldwin as its new Principal from September 2016. Mrs Baldwin has been a highly Pupils in the Nursery have become respected Head for the last twenty years, most keen little horticulturalists this term recently at St Peter’s, Eaton Square, and she will and have been keenly tending to their take the helm of a strong and talented Dolphin beans and strawberry plants, while team. Dolphin was delighted to find an pupils in the Preparatory School work exceptional and experienced Principal whose with First Hand Experiences who run vision and values match its educational philosophy a “Grow Make Eat” club. This spring and distinctive ethos. Last year’s Independent term they have been busy digging, Schools Inspectorate report recognised the weeding and seeding in the school school's excellence in its standard of teaching; in rooftop garden. Children have been the quality of its pupils' achievements and learning; carefully re-potting broad beans, and in their spiritual, moral, social and cultural sowing peas in the new polytunnel, development. League tables are never a judge of and planting special varieties of turnips and carrots. all that the school hopes to be, but it was also Children were very excited with their first harvest, and worked hard to pull-up some tasty encouraging to see its academic achievement baby leeks that they had planted before the winter. They made a delicious fresh salad with recognised nationally when Dolphin made it into these, adding quinoa, carrot, and chickpeas. They also learnt how to make crunchy bean the Sunday Times list of the top 100 independent crostinis with some fresh lemon thyme from the garden. This kind of Food Education is an preparatory schools in the country, based on 2014 important part of school life, helping children to engage with where food comes from, to SATs results. Dolphin looks forward to building on appreciate how it’s produced, and understand the various nutritional benefits of plant-based its strong foundations as Mrs Baldwin takes the foods. Interactive activities in the garden encourage positive food habits from a young age, as baton in the new academic year. well as an understanding of children’s place within a broader ecological system. : dolphinschool.com : sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

March/April 2016 ® 15 Prep school feature Talking time in the classroom?

When Tom Mylne, Head of Prep at Streatham & Clapham High less confident to ‘give it a go’. Tom Mylne comments: “If you give School, walks into a classroom he doesn’t want to hear silence; he children time to talk through their ideas, you will see a considerable rise in wants to hear pupils talking, plausibly and with confidence. He has participation levels. Children express themselves more confidently if there is introduced Talk4Writing (T4W), an approach whereby time to practise and a shared ownership over children learn a story verbatim with accompanying the result.” actions. This approach embeds the language children need for a particular topic orally, before moving on to reading and analysis of its language and structure. It Time to think develops confidence in children to talk about their The 10-second answer time given to all own ideas, and to clarify and articulate their own children means the less confident child is views before they write about them. Prep English not so daunted by the immediate ‘hands- Coordinator Jane Hayes comments: “With this up’ of classmates. The child has time to approach the children can see how and why they have consider, choose their vocabulary and improved, giving them the confidence to recognise and articulate their answer, improving the overcome any challenges faced with growing quality of answer. It supports the independence.” Deputy Head Rachael Fordham adds development of social skills, such as turn “What makes this programme different is the fact that taking, positive assertiveness and clear talk is planned, timely, and intentionally used to engage communication - all of which are key to pupils, enrich the curriculum and extend understanding at future success. key points throughout a lesson. No child can sit idly by and ‘be taught’. Tom Mylne has a clear vision for the Prep, where curiosity and They must be active participants.” engagement underpin all aspects of the school. He wants a culture of learning where pupils have time to talk, but also have the time and the Talking skills in mathematics environment to think deeply about ideas. He emphasises how important it is for a child with a problem to be able to talk about it. “I Verbal skills and confidence are equally important in mathematics, from want SCHS Prep to be a ‘talking school’, where good communication skills Talk Partners, where children initially look at the problem and how to have a profound affect on all aspects of the school culture and where all solve it with a partner, to Talking Tasks, where new vocabulary around pupils’ voices are heard.” a mathematical concept is consolidated. Talk Partners encourage the : schs.gdst.net

16 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016

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

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

Ofsted Registered We accept Childcare Vouchers

18 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 PAINTING & DECORATING Interior / Exterior Experienced, Reliable, Clean Fully Guaranteed / Insured FREE ADVICE & QUOTE John:- James & Lamont 020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695

March/April 2016 ® 19 Dawmouse Montessori Nursery School “To assist a child we must provide him with an environment which will able him to develop freely” Maria Montessori

Celebrating 20 years of excellence in Montessori teaching Come and visit one of our two Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools in Fulham and discover why we have enjoyed such a long period of success teaching children from 2yrs to 5yrs in their early years education. To learn more about us just visit our new web site at www.dawmouse.co.uk or email [email protected] www.dawmouse.co.uk Tel: 020 83989294

Passionate about teaching and learning

20 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 THE STUDIO DAY NURSERY (Established 1987) Montessori Teaching Method 8.00am to 7.00pm Full & Part-time Cooked Lunch & High Tea provided Boys & Girls Aged 2yrs-5yrs

93 Moore Park Road Fulham SW6 All enquires: 020 7736 9256 Principal: J.M.R. Williams, NNEB, RSH (Norlander).

THE PARK GARDENS DAY CARE AND NURSERY (adjacent to King Georges Park, London SW18 4DN)

Following our recent total refurbishment we are offering full and part time day care in our well-established nursery which is rated outstanding by Ofsted.

We offer a cheerful environment with a variety of activities for the children to have fun, make friends and enjoy learning through play.

Breakfast club, Lunch club, After school and holiday clubs are all available and Sports, Music, Ballet, Cooking and Tennis are included in our weekly programme. The nursery grant is available to 3 and 4 year olds.

For more information please look at our website www.gardenschildcare.co.uk or email [email protected] or alternatively call Johanna Wilson on 020 8875 1277

March/April 2016 ® 21

Childcare feature Working parents’ toolkit What do you do if your child is ill or you need to juggle your working hours to fit around your home life? We asked SW19 Lawyers to explore your rights as a working parent— it also applies if you are adopting.

Bad weather shuts your child’s school- what can you do? For emergencies there is a statutory right to reasonable unpaid time off for dependants. You have this right from day 1 of employment. This right also covers your children when they are ill. It’s usually for 1-2 days at a time and not for longer-term caring issues.

What about if you need to take more time off work, say if your child needs to stay at home for a longer period of time? Here you may need to turn to another legal right – parental leave. To be entitled, you need to have been working for one year. You can then take up to 18 weeks unpaid leave for each child, usually in blocks of a week, with a maximum of 4 weeks per year.

What are your options as a new parent? • The burden of additional costs Maternity and paternity leave are fairly well established (these rights fall • Detrimental effect on ability to meet customer demand outside the scope of this article) but remember that you can now, if you • Inability to reorganise work among existing staff qualify, also choose to share the care of your newborn between partners. Financially, this can be effective, especially where the father’s • Inability to recruit additional staff policy is more generous than the mother’s. You can decide to split the • Detrimental impact on quality leave available so you are off work at different times (or together). • Detrimental impact on performance Except for the first two weeks after the birth, the remaining 50 weeks • Insufficiency of work during the periods the employee can be shared. proposes to work • Planned structural changes- a reorganisation What if you need to change the way you work, to be able to manage your family’s demands and work? Perhaps you want to work part time or leave early to collect from In practice, it’s not that hard for employers to rely on one of these nursery. If you’ve worked for 26 weeks you have a right to ask to work reasons, if they want to say no. A refusal may mean you may have a flexibly. It has to be considered reasonably. Give it your best shot. It’s claim but you’d need to think carefully about taking the matter further if worth putting care and effort into your application: try and anticipate you want to stay working there. issues and problems and suggest solutions. Your employer can only Your company may offer more generous benefits so it is worth checking refuse for a specified reason. These are: their handbook.

Employment specialists, SW19Lawyers, have offices in both Wimbledon and the City. They are holding a coffee morning on 21 April at 9-11am at Cannizaro Hotel, West Side Common, London SW19 4UE to talk about issues facing working mothers and mothers thinking about going back to work after maternity leave. ( 8947 7997 : sw19lawyers.co.uk St. Mark’s Montessori Pre-School St. Mark’s Church, St. Mark’s Place (Behind Wimbledon Library) SW19 7ND Mon-Fri 9.30-12.30 Tue & Thurs afternoons till 3.15

OPEN MORNINGS PLEASE COME AND VIEW US IN ACTION (No appointments for open mornings) TUESDAYS ONLY, 10.15-10.45 AM 8TH,15TH AND 22ND MARCH 3RD, 10TH, 17TH AND 24TH MAY

Small Classes – ages 2 till 5 – established 1998 Very large secure lawn garden with play/learning equipment Daily Breakfast Club 9 a.m. till 9.30 a.m. (NEW FEATURE) Very good Ofsted - 3/4 year old funding. Weekly visiting specialist teachers for music, ballet & French.

For a personal viewing of our pre-school or for a brochure please Call 07956 346938 or email [email protected]

24 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Childcare feature

Social life freedom: an ideal gift Childcare Vouchers not just for nurseries for busy parents Did you know that even if your child is at school you can still use your Childcare Vouchers to save on childcare costs? Vouchers can be used to pay for any Like Minders, the bespoke childcare agency providing direct registered childcare provider for children up to the age of 16, so can be used for and stress-free access to high quality babysitters and before- and after-school clubs as well as nannies, au pairs, child-minders and childcare, is now offering annual memberships: an ideal gift nurseries. They can even be used for holiday camps this Easter. If your employer for busy parents who yearn to have their social lives back. doesn't offer a Childcare Voucher scheme, contact Busy Bees Benefits who will get in touch with your employer to set up a scheme. Taking the hassle out of organising child care, Like Minders is Find out more at : busybeesbenefits.com available 7 days a week, 365 days a year and offers a wide range of flexible, affordable and trusted childcare services including babysitting, flexible daytime care, emergency childcare and holiday nannies.

Founder Bryony Sullivan, said: “I lost count of the number of times friends were unable to come for a night out because Do you need help at home, but no time to they couldn’t get a babysitter. We think we have fixed that, as London parents can book with us even for a very last minute, even look for help? spur of the moment celebration. This means that ‘can’t find a Mrs Ford required weekend help to assist with her 4 children under the age of 10 babysitter’ sits up there now with ‘tidying my sock drawer’ years and the running of her busy household. She was introduced to Dallas Dacre for excuses on not having a good night out. It remains our Lacy’s agency by a friend, who had hired her existing housekeeper through the mission to give hard-working parents their pre-child freedom agency 8 years previously. back and we know how much that is appreciated by the thousands of families that use us.” Having spoken with Dallas, Mrs Ford was given the peace of mind that Dallas fully understood her family’s needs and would find an employee to match her specific All child carers are DBS checked and registered through a requirements. Over the following weeks Mrs Ford also asked Dallas to find a daily stringent screening process to ensure they match strict housekeeper and a family driver. This invaluable introduction to Dallas resulted in standards and levels of experience. The result is a trusted Mrs Ford having a strong team of staff to ensure the smooth running of her busy source of the very best baby sitters and child carers including household. primary and nursery school teachers, trained nannies, medical students, maternity nurses and Ofsted registered Like Mrs Ford, many of Dallas’s clients and candidates are longstanding and child minders. introduced to her agency through personal recommendation. : likeminders.co.uk : dallasdacrelacy.com

We asked Diana and Amanda of Nappy Valley Nannies to tell us why is it so challenging to match the right nanny with the right family "To ensure a long and happy commitment, it is very important to get the matching between nanny and family absolutely right. From the onset, it is crucial we have the family's full search criteria and that expectations are realistic. We are happy to give guidance on this, if required. Once we have this, we can then shortlist appropriate candidates for the role.

We have personally met the nannies registered with us, all of whom have been thoroughly checked and vetted. Additionally, we have spoken with each candidate's last few employers before accepting them on our books. We ensure the candidates being put forward have full details of the role and their agreement to be put forward to the family.

We see our position as having a duty of care to both our clients and our nannies, and we are always happy to stay in contact for any advice even when the placement has been done.

Our approach has ensured we have a high success rate and have maintained an excellent reputation with both families and nannies alike." : nappyvalleynannies.co.uk

March/April 2016 ® 25 26 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Childcare feature What’s new in Childcare?

By Maxine Henderson There are a number of changes proposed by government which should supposedly make the cost of childcare cheaper in the near future. Here’s what you need to know about these changes and how they will work. Free childcare for children ages 3 and 4 Replacement of Childcare Vouchers with Tax-Free As you will probably now be aware, the government has offered 30 Childcare Scheme hours of free childcare a year for children ages 3 and 4 from September Last year, the government’s proposals for delivering Tax-Free Childcare 2016. But is it really that straightforward? were found to be lawful by the Supreme Court and the changes should come into force early in 2017. When does the scheme start? In September 2016, but the scheme is not launching everywhere at this The Tax-Free Childcare scheme will replace the current Childcare time. Instead, it will be piloted in some areas, and these are still to be Vouchers system, although, parents who are currently signed up to the determined. There is currently still no indication as to when the Childcare Vouchers scheme will be able to continue using it. scheme will be available nationally. The key differences between the two schemes are Which parents will be entitled to the 30 hours? as follows: Unlike the current scheme, under which parents of 3 and 4 year olds • The current Childcare Vouchers scheme is a tax and National are eligible for 15 hours of free childcare a week, the additional Insurance saving scheme, offered as a benefit from the employer of 15 hours will only be available to working parents. A statement on the a parent, but only where the employer chooses to offer the scheme. government website says it will support up to 600,000 working families, The good news is that the new policy is expected to be open to all but it is not clear at this stage how many hours parents should be working parents who meet the set criteria. working to qualify as “working parents.” • Where both parents work, families can save around £1,800 a year Which children will be eligible? under the Childcare Vouchers scheme, but will save £2,000 per year Children aged 3 or 4 in September 2016 living in the pilot areas with under the new scheme. working parents (as stated above, the definition of working parents • Self-employed parents will also be eligible for support under the remains unclear) who have an annual household income of less than Tax-Free Childcare scheme. £150,000. • It appears that under the new proposals, the Tax-Free Childcare Nurseries have already raised concerns about their ability to offer 30 scheme will only be available to one earner in a family where both hours of free, flexible, childcare. There is concern within the nursery parents are working. Families with a single earner will be excluded. industry that the money they receive from government to run the current grant scheme of 15 hours does not cover the costs they incur in Maxine Henderson is Operations Manager at Tinies Childcare, a leading providing these hours, meaning that an increase in free hours is simply childcare specialist which helps families, nurseries and other childcare not sustainable. Employment Minister, Priti Patel, has been tasked with settings find the right childcare professionals to suit their needs. For more launching a policy that will actually work in practice – no mean feat! information, visit : tinies.com

New nursery on the block: what’s different about their approach?

The London Preschool is opening its first nursery in nursery education and our focus on the individual Osiers Road, Wandsworth, SW18 1GZ. Unlike other development of each child,” exclaims Zuckerman. day nurseries or nursery schools, The London “Imagine watching all of our 3–5 year olds on stage, Preschool focuses on an individual curriculum for performing an opera that they composed. Their each child based on the child’s needs talents, words, their ideas, their choices for music, costumes interests and abilities. The founder, Bill Zuckerman, and scenery. Not reciting lines they were being told to has 14 years experience in developing innovative day learn by adults; they were bringing to life characters nurseries and has worked closely with leading that they invented and nourished through their own academics in the UK and the US designing a unique imaginations. “ learning experience for children. He is bringing in an experienced team of professional educators who, In addition to performing arts the nursery uses state of between them have had the accolade of most of the art technology (tablets, interactive whiteboards, their nurseries being graded Outstanding or Good parental webcams and leading edge security), provides with Outstanding Learning and Development by nutritionist-designed menus, has an all inclusive fee Ofsted. policy. Outdoor activities provide further opportunities for exploration and learning. “Our Explore, discover, learn Wandsworth nursery has a large area for outdoor play They believe that the nursery has a responsibility to and we will encourage the children to go outside a help children explore a broad spectrum of minimum of three times a day, come rain or shine.” experiences including classical music, world music, ballet, performing arts, sports, art, art history, science and discovery, technology, language • The London Preschool in Wandsworth will and literacy and numeracy. To deliver such a different curriculum The open from 7am to 7pm, 51 weeks of the year to London Preschool engage only experienced, qualified teachers for each accommodate the needs of working parents. The of the specialist areas. nursery is accepting enquiries now for the September 2016 opening. For more information ( “We have always run the nursery of choice for parents and children, telephone 3538 7602, email them at [email protected] or : wherever we have operated. This results from our unique approach to visit londonpreschool.co.uk

March/April 2016 ® 27 We specialise in: • Adult and Baby lessons • Toddler lessons • Learn To Swim classes • Pre-Club Squad Training for Children • Adult Beginners and Intermediate Training Cindy’s Swim School is focused on delivering a variety of personalised • Half-term Crash Courses lessons to local families. • Swim Clubs for more We have a passion for swimming advanced swimmers • Holiday Crash Courses instruction and practice within a structured and safe environment. Our swimmers learn the joys of swimming and stroke technique with programmes incorporating games and exercise to improve each swimmer’s confidence in the water.

Quote 'SWF-1' to get 1 lesson free when booking into the Summer term Adult & Baby swimming course. For new customers only. [email protected] 07902 782675

28 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Baby feature

Developmental milestones Sustainable jewellery Skills such as “sitting,” “linking two words” are called developmental milestones. Development is A majority of us have given or received an divided in four areas: gross motor, speech and language, vision and fine motor, personal and item of jewellery at some point in our social development. One must remember that each child is unique and progresses at his own lifetimes. Jewellery holds pace so developing a skill a little earlier or later is fairly common. We can’t tell exactly when a deep sentimental value child will learn a skill but we expect skills to be mastered during a specific time frame or close to our hearts. But "window". A skill not developing after a specific time can be a sign that something is not right. behind the love and cherished moments of our If you are concerned about your child’s development, developmental paediatricians can help. treasured jewellery, often These experts in child development have a holistic approach, work in partnership with families lies a hidden story tainted to support children’s development and to help them achieve their best potential. with pain and anguish. The affects of mining are far Dr Marie Le Page, Developmental Paediatrician, : southlondon-paediatrician.com reaching, the use of mercury in the mining MyHealthcare clinic, Battersea Reach Wandsworth ( 7099 5555 practices contaminate the local water supplies and have a detrimental affect on the eco systems. Human rights violations are rampant and the impact on families and women are extremely negative.

Ama Hazel thinks it is important that consumers are more aware of the mining practices and how it affects purchasing jewellery. Ama Hazel: “We only use recycled or responsibly sourced precious metals in the creation of our jewellery, we incorporate green practices throughout our production process. Long term we want to ensure future generations benefit from sustainable practices by respecting both people and the earth through co-operation.”

: Amahazel.com ( 07922 617664

Gentle osteopathy for clear results Osteopathy at Naval Mair’s clinic for newborn babies, toddlers and all kids into their teens is well known to be helpful for overall health and wellbeing. It is safe, their practice is ethical and Music to nurture baby keeps high standards. They are guided by regulators to assure patient peace of mind. Monkey Music run award winning specialist Babies especially are incredibly receptive to the gentle unwinding that careful Osteopaths can baby classes for babies from 3 months. Their provide. The effects of a difficult birth, for example, often correlate to tensions that manifest in highly skilled teachers create a calm, nurturing children. These tensions might reveal themselves as digestive difficulties, inability to be at ease or musical experience, which aids your baby's even as bodily malalignment. Careful, sensitive, precise paediatric Osteopathy for children can cognitive, social and motor development. It's un-tether the child’s bodily tensions resulting in improved health overall. also fun for you and a great way to make new Naval Mair and his team have been helping babies and children in South West London for 25 friends. Classes are run all over SW London. years with a proven track record and a great reputation. Please visit their web site Give them a call or email for impartial advice, they can probably help! ( 8812 3733 : monkeymusic.co.uk pop in your postcode : navalmair.com and book your first free class.

March/April 2016 ® 29 All our applicants are

personally Nannies, Maternity Nurses, interviewed Housekeepers and Mother’s Helps

and their Permanent and Temporary Creative Little Minds references Residential, Daily, Full and Part-Time ART AND CRAFT & BUILD AND CONSTRUCT checked Evening Babysitting Register WORKSHOPS Tel: 020 8947 4666 two different activities that enhance children's creativity [email protected] Locations: Chelsea, Fulham and Belgravia www.wimbledonnannies.com Facebook: Wimbledon Nannies Twitter: @wimbledonannies 184 Copse Hill, SW20 0SP www.creativelittleminds.co.uk [email protected] 07711 992451

30 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Baby feature

Recycling baby clothes charity January saw the launch of SW London’s newest family charity. Set up by local mums, Little Village collects good quality baby clothing and equipment, and works with health visitors and social workers to give these items to new parents in need.

Founder Sophia Parker said “We want to make it as easy as Marmalade 250 possible for local families to support each other. I know that there We love this lovely shop. They love toys and especially the super, super are cupboards across SW London bulging with outgrown clothes soft Little Jellycat’s. They have lots to choose from, all suitable from birth, and unused kit. We want Little Village to be a way you can put all making them the perfect baby gifts as no one can resist their charm. that stuff to good use.”

250 Battersea Park Rd, SW11 3BP. : marmalade250.com To make a donation or to get involved, visit : littlevillagehq.com

Great birth services directory Fun football from 18months Nurturing Birth is thrilled to launch a new Directory where you can find Little Kickers provides toddlers with an early introduction to the listings for people who support pregnancy, birth, postnatal and feeding - fun and excitement of football from 18 months old. The classes from doulas to antenatal teachers to are a fun-filled activity and were developed by FA qualified pregnancy yoga to independent coaches and nursery teachers. They aim to teach basic football midwives to lactation consultants to skills in a vibrant group play environment. Invaluable social skills sleep consultants - everyone on one site, like listening, sharing, taking turns and teamwork are woven into a with easy search and contact options and class that places as much emphasis on simple learning concepts, individuals listed by distance from your like colours and numbers, as it location. No registration necessary - does on fine-tuning a child’s basic making it easier for parents to find the balance, agility and co-ordination. support they need! ( 8675 1155 : littlekickers.co.uk : nurturingbirthdirectory.com

Baby Bumpkin yoga classes Baby Bumpkin classes offer bendy giggly yoga for clever minds and strong bodies. The classes are tailored to your baby’s developmental stage and incorporate music, movement and magical storytelling with postures inspired by hatha yoga. Classes are available for wrigglers (six weeks to crawling) and explorers (crawling to wobbly walking). Come and move, stretch, dance with Baby Bumpkin - roar like a lion, hiss like a snake, buzz like a bee, down like a dog then ssshhhh, still as a mountain.

[email protected] ( 07415 225 650 : tattybumpkin.com/clapham

March/April 2016 ® 31 Baby feature Why do women fear childbirth? We live in a society where childbirth is Support on your side relatively safe, it is also a normal We also know that childbirth is like a rite of physiological process, yet fear of childbirth passage where women benefit from having the support of a trusted, knowledgeable person by appears to be increasing with hospitals their side on the journey. Ideally this would be having to set up special clinics for women their midwife but the way that maternity services who cannot face the prospect of normal are organised in the UK means that most women childbirth. will not meet the same midwife twice. This is why services like Neighbourhood We do know that birth has disappeared from our Midwives offer complete continuity with a known normal lives with our only images being via the midwife who will walk the journey with the media (the less said about that show the better.) woman, on call 24/7 and providing all antenatal and postnatal care at home plus continuous care Up until the ‘60s, birth often took place at home in labour. This type of care leads to better so women heard and saw their mums, sisters and outcomes for mum and baby and greater aunties giving birth and they saw them minutes satisfaction, plus dads feel more comfortable and after, tired but triumphant with their new baby. at ease.

Now birth takes place in a medicalised environment with its own Women who book this care can still remain NHS patients and have vocabulary and technology, it is very safe indeed. However it takes their baby in hospital if they choose but they have the services of their place among strangers, when we know that the hormones of birth own midwife by their side throughout. require a safe and familiar environment. “We don’t know what we would have done without her and have no doubt the whole experience of birth would have been very different,” says Very often women wait until their career is established and having a Roberta, a client of Neighbourhood Midwives. baby becomes a step on the achievement ladder. It is often all too much by Tina Perridge pressure. : neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk Mothering the mother

By Margherita Tessarin, Ayurvedic practitioner and Ayurvedic doula

Our society has made women believe that She is also discouraged from going out they are fit to get up and out soon after and busying herself with house chores giving birth. In the past women were not and people. She must rest, feed and allowed to go outdoor and do physical bond with her baby. Great care is chores for at least 40 days as it was well taken to ensure that her needs are met known that this is a very delicate time for a to make her happy as it was woman health. Ayurveda says “40 days for traditionally accepted in the past—and 40 years” as what a woman eats and does now supported by scientific evidence— for at least few weeks after childbirth place that her happiness makes the baby the foundation of her future health. happy and improves the quality of their relationship. Ayurvedic postnatal care combines diet and treatments and starts with a healing Although in many other cultures ceremony where the mother receives a hot mothers are still looked after during the oil massage, followed by a herbal paste and a postnatal period (and, not surprisingly, bath. Her tummy is wrapped to remove air postnatal depression does not exist), in and blood as well as realign the internal Scientific evidence shows that mum’s happiness is key our western society (and especially in organs and prevent back ache. She will be big cities), not many women are aware served a hot, light and nourishing postnatal meal to restore her energy. that only a proper postnatal care can restore their health quickly—as well as prevent the onset of future problems. The principles follow the simple rule of counteraction as Ayurveda believes that after giving birth the mother’s body is imbalanced by a That’s why when women feel a pressure to get back to "normal" life as cold, dry and mobile energy (known as Vata, or the air energy) and quickly as possible, it is important to remind them to honour the needs “oiliness and warmth” in term of food and treatments to postnatal period as the benefits will prove that they actually have not rebalance it. lost but gained time and well being.

Hot oil massages, known as Abhyanga are given daily, and for the first 10 Margherita Tessarin, Ayurvedic practitioner and Ayurvedic doula. Pregnancy days postpartum a special postnatal diet is provided to boost her yoga teacher and baby massage instructor, BA Ayurveda, member of APA digestive power and improve the quantity and quality of the breast milk. and Doula UK ( 07930 607 277 : doula-ayurveda.vpweb.co.uk

32 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 March/April 2016 ® 33 34 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Easter holiday activities listings

Vauxhall City Farm 165 Tyers Street SE11 5HS ( 7582 4204 [email protected] : vauxhallcityfarm.org 29 March – 1 April Wild About Easter A club for kids aged 8-11 to explore the farm through fun activities from animal care to Please tell cookery classes. 11am-3pm, £25 per day. advertisers Easter Fun at Paint Pots you saw them The Boltons SW10 and Bayswater W2 in Families ( 7223 0123 : paint-pots.co.uk 11-15 April Creative sessions of Art, It makes a Craft, Music & Games HUGE difference Different activities each day. Each fun-packed Thank you session is led by our experienced teachers. Book a full week or individual sessions. Un-accompanied sessions for 3-6yrs: 9.30am- Intensive swimming courses with SwimWay 3.30pm, £65 or 9.30am-12.30pm, £40-45 We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed. Please Accompanied sessions for 18m-3yrs: double check event with the organiser to avoid disappointment. 3-4.30pm, £25 Please also check our website for more activities: we keep our listings constantly updated with new material. We’ve also got a section of FREE activities, which we have no room to print here. www.familiessouthwest.co.uk LANGUAGES Et Patati et Patata Sewing and art ARTS AND CRAFTS Fulham Start Centre and St Andrew’s Church, East Sheen, SW148QR Fulham SW6 : Active Art thecrafthouseuk.com ( 07966 893674, 29 March-11 April [email protected] The Nature Study Centre, Wandsworth Common Join The Craft House : etpatatipatata.com ( 07775 781332, [email protected] Wildlife Wonders this 29 March-1 April : naturescope.co.uk Easter as they celebrate Fun in French Easter Day Camp 29 March - 8 April wildlife in all art forms taking inspiration 100% French club, 100% fun. An Active Art Easter Holiday workshop from art through the ages, famous artists as unforgettable week of learning – all en francais! Totem Pole Art and Mexican Patterns. well as oceans, jungles and rainforests across French classes, workshops and activities, with Explore Mexican art, patterns and sculptural the globe. French dancing and storytelling, ages 4-6 and 7- forms in the environment and work with large- OFSTED registered. Childcare vouchers 10, 9am-3pm. scale prints. Age 3-6 and 7-12, 9.30am-3.30pm accepted. or half days 9.30am-12.30pm Aprons, equipment, sewing machines all Club Petit Pierrot supplied ready to create some Chelsea and Notting Hill wickedly wonderful projects. Sewing 8+ daily Fulham Palace ( 9.30-3pm; Art & Craft 5-11yrs daily 10-3pm 7385 5565, [email protected] Bishop’s Avenue SW6 6EA : clubpetitpierrot.co.uk ( 7736 3233 4-8 April Easter Holiday Club – Le Petit : fulhampalace.org Prince Do you want your children to have fun 27 March-6 April and flourish while doing lots of arts & crafts, Easter Holiday Workshops Sew Me Pretty cooking, drama, outdoor sporty games, singing Easter Trail, 27 and 28 March 1-3.30pm, £2 Wimbledon Park Road SW19 6PE and learn French effortlessly at the same time? per child, no booking necessary, age 2+. ( 07714 252660, [email protected] Fun French Easter Holiday clubs across London Make your own Bishop’s Mitre to wear and take : sewpretty.me.uk for ages 3-5 and 6-8. 9am-1pm or 9am-3pm home. 4-9 April Family Drop-in, 30 March, 2-3.30pm. £2 per Kids’ Holiday Sewing Workshop child, no booking necessary, age 2+. Feeling creative? Want to become a fashion Bird Sculptures Family Drop-in, 6 April, 2- designer? Try something different at these MUSIC, DANCE 3.30pm. Create your own Fulham Palace bird creative workshops. 10am-1pm or 1.45- sculpture. £2 per child, no booking necessary, 4.45pm £24. Or full day sessions 10am-4.45pm AND DRAMA age 2+. £48, ages 7-12. Academy of Live & Eddie Catz Putney, Wimbledon and Earlsfield Recorded Arts First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street SW15 1SF John Archer Way, London SW18 3SX 42 Station Road SW19 2LP : alra.co.uk/workshops 279 Magdalen Road SW18 3NZ ( : ALRA is launching its first Youth 020 3475 5268 eddiecatz.com Workshop for young people of 10+ years. Throughout Easter Holidays Holiday Workshops Record your own devised scenes on With three branches now in SW London, there will be plenty of Easter professional equipment, understand stagecraft Camps to choose from including Lego Workshops, Playball, Little while building confidence. Run by experienced Science, Dance, Drama, Art and Ballet. Prices usually include lunch and a free play at the tutors, this 5 day workshop will focus on film venue. Eddie Catz appears in all venues twice a day to meet and greet the children. acting. 4-8 April, 10am-4pm Cont p.36

March/April 2016 ® 35 Easter holiday activities listings

activities. Last day concert performance! [email protected] Studio Film School 10.30am-12.30pm, £110 for the week, £105 : stagecoach.co.uk/Battersea Broomwood Hall School, Balham SW12 8NR sibling discount. 5-8 April from p.35 Chelsea Academy, Chelsea Harbour Easter Holiday Performing Arts Camp SW10 0AB : studiofilmschool.co.uk Funky Moves Put on a show in 4 days (or mornings) ... 4-8 April. Easter: Murder Mystery Week The Bedford, 77 Bedford Hill, Balham, featuring songs and routines from Pitch Join the Easter holiday crime fighting club SW12 9HD Perfect, Footloose, Snoopy, Big Hero 6 and and make a thrilling Whodunit murder ( 07810 431101 many, many more. Join a team of high-energy, mystery film. Ages 7-10 and 11-14, 9am - [email protected] experienced musical theatre professionals to 3pm (Late Club available until 5pm), £245 : funkymovesdance.com put on a truly memorable show. No includes DVD. Check website for details of 4-7 April Easter Holiday Course experience necessary - open to everyone! 4-6 venues. Amazing Street Dance workshops, funky arts year olds 9.30am-12.30pm (performance at and crafts activities, fancy dress games and 12.30pm on Friday) £115. 7-15 year olds spectacular performances. Winners of UK’s 10am-4pm (performance at 6pm on Friday) Allsorts Drama Best Kids Dance Class 2015 (Kallikids Awards). £145 Notting Hill Prep, 95 Lancaster Road W11 9.30am–12.30pm, ages 4-12, £95 for the 4 More House School, 22–24 Pont Street SW1 days. Upbeat Music ( 8969 3249, [email protected] Parsons Green SW6 : allsortsdrama.com The Music House for Children ( 07816 901396, 4-8 April Easter Drama Workshops 306-310 Uxbridge Road W12 7LJ [email protected] : 9.30am-3.30pm, ages 4–6 and 7-11. See ( 8932 2652 upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk website for details depending on venue. : musichouseforchildren.co.uk 29 March-1 April 7 April. 11am The Secret Garden Upbeat Easter Holiday Fun Amanda’s Action Club A glorious tale for young children. £8/£6, ages Sessions include dance and singing, electric Skylark Café, Wandsworth Common SW18 3RT 0-6. 2pm. Try a fabulous range of orchestral guitars and drums and songwriting. CD ( 01895 623999, and percussive instruments with a truly presentation and performance on final day. [email protected] magical musical adventure. Cornet, Trumpet, Age 4-14, 10-4pm. : amandasactionclub.co.uk French horn, Fife, Violin, Piano, Keyboards, Throughout Easter Holidays Percussion, Guitar, Ukulele, Flute, Clarinet. £5 Active Music Baby and Toddler Classes per child. Ages 4-11, EDUCATION, Fun and energetic, for little ones and older 8 April Musical Theatre Come along with children too. £10 pay as you go, check website Annie and friends on a musical adventure set for times. in New York. High energy fun with singing, SKILLS & SUPPORT dancing, art and design. A fabulous showcase The Chickenshed Theatre will be presented at 3pm. Ages 5-11, Chelsea Academy, Lots Road SW10 0AB workshop starts 10am, £40 including lunch. Special Needs camps ( 8292 9222 (SEN Camps) : chickenshed.org.uk Song Academy For more 29 March – 1 April Chickenshed Holy Trinity Church, Brook Green W6 7BL information, FAQs Kensington & Chelsea Easter Holiday Bush Studios, 151 The Arches, Shepherds Bush and the sign up form, Project W12 7LA see : A great opportunity for children to develop ( 07710 023743, rolemodels.me their performance skills at this 4-day [email protected] workshop £100 for the 4 days with a 50% : Contact Hugo at [email protected] or on songacademy.co.uk ( sibling discount, age 5-12 6-8 and 13-14 April 07825 598344 4-8 April Easter Shed, see website. Easter Holiday Workshops This Easter, Role Models are running two Develop creative lyric writing skills, improvise Special Educational Needs (SEN) Activity Funky Monkey Keyboard melodies and harmonies and compose Camps for a maximum of 25 children per instrumental parts and solos. Each workshop is Classes camp (aged 6-12) from April 4-8 at Vanessa over two afternoons 2-5pm, with a Nursery in Ravenscourt Park and at Albemarle Streatham, Battersea, Herne Hill, Beckenham performance of the finished song at the end. ( School in Wandsworth. 0800 107 7949 [email protected] Ages 8-11 and 12-16 depending on venue and : funkymonkey.info dates, £75, siblings £70, snacks provided. 4-8 April Electronic Keyboard Workshops – ‘Keyboard Superstars’ Stagecoach Battersea Brilliant taster courses for ages 5-9, with super Yellowbird Education Northcote Lodge School, spooky themes, teaching children to read, play Parsons Green Prep School, 1 Fulham Park Road 26 Bolingbroke Grove SW11 6EL and write notes C-A, plus music-based SW6 4LJ ( 07956 288928, ( 7731 0695 [email protected] The Siegeris School of Dance : yellowbirdeducation.com Venues include Wimbledon, Raynes Park and Mitcham 4-8 and 11-15 April [email protected] Easter Creative Writing Workshops ( 07730536499 Use your imagination, use power words and : siegerisdance.com improve descriptive writing in short stories - The Siegeris School of Dance is delighted to be offering some fun ready for exams, assessments and most dance Easter Workshops this April. The dance school, with its happy importantly enjoyment. Lively, engaging environment has a professional and enthusiastic approach with a high sessions that enable children to meet others, standard of teaching from fully qualified dance teachers. gain confidence in a group environment and "Let’s Make a Ballet" and "Musical Madness" will be a fun way to spend find their own voice by writing as individuals. some time during the holidays and gain skills. Age 6-12, 10am-12.30pm, £259

36 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Easter holiday activities listings

Intensive revision classes By Oxbridge Masterclasses ( 7084 6357 : oxbridgemasterclasses.co.uk Director Richard Blaine MEng, BA (Hons) Cambridge says: “With our classes delivered only by top Oxbridge graduates who are also experienced tutors who consistently get results, you will excel with us.” 15 to 20 hours of tuition will help your GCSE or A level student gain confidence by getting familiar with exam techniques and past papers. Very competitive rates.

Life Skills courses Chelsea Academy School SW10 0AB and Notting Hill Prep School W11 1QQ Contact Will at [email protected] on ( 07958024459. : rolemodels.me 4th – 8th April Mon-Fri (10am-3pm) Tr u l y unique confidence and resilience courses. The week will cover interview techniques, debating skills, public speaking, team building and the qualities of a successful school leader in a fun, and active learning environment. The courses are designed to grow the core competencies looked for by the top selective Easter Junior Golf with Central London Golf Centre schools, support children moving from junior to senior schools, those going through the challenges and prizes. £30 - 9am-12pm, : fulhamfc.com 11+ process and to give all the attendees the £45 - 9am-3pm. Free Golf Tasters every Throughout Easter Holidays platform they will need to succeed in life. Sunday at 1pm. Holiday Courses Age 8-12. Holiday courses for all abilities in a fun and Chelsea FC Soccer School challenging environment. 3-5yrs, 9-11am, 6-14 Venues across SW London yrs, 9am-3pm, from £15 per day. SPORT ( 7957 8220 [email protected] / Kiddikicks [email protected] Across South West London Central London Golf Centre : chelseafc.com/foundation ( 7937 7965, [email protected] Burntwood Lane SW17 0AT Throughout Easter Holidays : kiddikicks.couk ( 8871 2468 : clgc.co.uk London Soccer School Throughout Easter Holidays 29 March-15 April For boys and girls aged 3-13. Times vary Holiday Sessions Easter Junior Golf Camps according to course, from £30. Kiddikicks (football 18m to 5 years) What better way to spend the holidays than Kiddisports (multi-sport 18m to 5 years) and improving your golf at one of these fun camps Fulham FC Foundation Ligasoccer (football Under 8’s) sessions run with an array of skills challenges, competitions Venues in Fulham throughout the holidays. Or arrange a and tasks. For children of all levels, includes ( 0870 442 5432, bespoke session (1 to 3 hours) for your player golf coaching, daily fun competitions, skill [email protected] and their friends: pick your sport and they’ll provide the coach, equipment and place. Moving Matters Elmgreen School and Lambeth Academy ( 3691 4576 [email protected] : moving-matters.org Moving Matters is an organisation with an outstanding reputation for providing high quality support to primary schools in physical education and school sport. Send your child to one of their multi sports camps. Only £24 per day. 8.30-3.30pm Age 5-13. Merton Active plus Book at : merton.gov.uk/activeplus, places fill up quickly. Exciting range of leisure activities from Wimbledon Park Watersports and outdoor centre to Sailing or Kayaking. Learn horseriding at Wimbledon’s Ridgeway stables or brush up on your tennis skills in time for Make a thrilling Whodunit murder mystery film with Studio Film School Cont p.38

March/April 2016 ® 37 Easter holiday activities listings

summer. There are also crafts and music Westminster Boating Base First Hand Experiences classes. Courses from just £10 per hour and 136 Grosvenor Road SW1V 3JY All Saints Church Hall, multi activity day camps cost from just £20. from p.37 ( 70a Fulham High Street SW6 Ages 5 + (depending on activity) 7821 7389 [email protected] ( 07917 583759 The Little Gym Wandsworth : westminsterboatingbase.co.uk contact@firsthand experiences.co.uk April dates TBC, probably last week of : firsthandexperiences.co.uk & Fulham Easter holidays. Sailing and Kayaking Courses 29 March-15 April Compass House, Riverside West, SW18 1DB Courses for ages 10+, see website for details. Easter Holiday Camps ( 8874 6567, 'Wake Up!' is a camp full of time old traditions [email protected] Woodfield Grove Tennis with a distinctly modern twist. Visit a working : thelittlegym.co.uk 9 Woodfield Grove SW16 1LR City Farm to meet their new arrivals, go to Throughout Easter Holidays ( 079464 31514 : wgtc.co.uk Kew Gardens to be 'plant detectives' and stride Holiday Camps 15% new members when mentioning around Richmond Park to test your navigation Their ever popular 3 hour camps (OFSTED Families skills with a Spring scavenger hunt. Back at approved) for over 3s build new skills and 29 Mar-8 Apr base, build team spirit through song, drama, develop confidence while the kids have loads 5-10yrs old £17 per day, 10-1pm art, craft and healthy whole food. £55 per day of fun. Call for timings. Monday,Tuesday, Thursday and 2-5pm including lunch, snacks, transport and trips, Wednesday and Friday 10-16yrs £12, 2-4pm sibling discount offered. SwimWay Tuesday and Thursday. East Sheen, Putney, Kensington and Wimbledon Wild Learning ( 8871 3972, [email protected] Youngstars Multi-Sports and Wimbledon Common : swimway.co.uk Activity Camp ( 01483 424 400 29 March-8 April Swimming Courses : wild-learning.net Clapham, Parsons Green, Putney and Wimbledon Intensive courses to improve your child’s 29 March-8 April Easter Holiday Camps ( swimming technique, on a private or semi- 07920 426499, [email protected] Fun, outdoor holiday clubs giving children the : private basis. Never more than two children young-stars.co.uk chance to play, learn, get muddy and just be 29 March-8 April per instructor! Courses run for half an hour kids in a safe, nurturing but wild environment. Holiday Activity Camps each day, book early to avoid disappointment. Ages 5-12, 10.15am-4pm, from £45 per day Plenty of fun, games and excitement whilst 3-9yrs, dates and times dependent on venue being introduced to all aspects of sports in an Super Camps all inclusive and non-competitive environment. Telford Park Tennis Club Several locations in SW London 3-7 years, times and prices vary. 35A Killieser Avenue SW2 4NX ( 01235 467316 ( 8674 5979 : supercamps.co.uk : telfordparktennisclub.co.uk Outstanding Ofsted rating camp gives you the Throughout Easter Holidays MULTI ACTIVITY peace of mind that your children are in the Tennis Camps best possible care. Camps include a variety of A series of fun, 5 day coaching sessions for all CAMPS sports, games and arts and crafts. No two levels and abilities from 5 to 15 years, days are the same and the price includes all 11.30am-4pm, £30 per day or £140 for the Activ Camp activities. week, no membership required. Barnes, Wandsworth, Wimbledon, Tooting Urban Ascent Rock Climbing ( 07896 546067 : FREE Unit 5 Parsons Green Depot, 33-35 Parsons activcamps.com Green Lane, Fulham SW6 4HH Throughout Easter Holidays Holiday Camps ACTIVITIES ( 7751 0913, [email protected] Fun-packed multi-activity camps for children : urbanascent.co.uk aged 4-14, including dodgeball, quad biking, We have compiled a listing of FREE Throughout Easter Holidays inflatables, water slides, indoor rock climbing, activities, however there is no room in Holiday Climbing Club swimming, crazy crash mats, foam stick these pages to print then: we are full to Get the most out of this Easter Holiday with hockey, obstacle courses, the list goes on and bursting! We’ve uploaded it on rock climbing sessions, daily at 1.30pm, 3pm on… Dates and times vary according to venue, www.familiesouthwest.co.uk which we and 4.30pm, each session lasts 1 hour and from £37 per day. keep constantly updated. costs £12, ages 5 and up. Book ahead to avoid disappointment Barracudas Bank of England Museum At Streatham High School, Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH SW16 1AW ( 7601 4878 : barracudas.co.uk ( : bankofengland.co.uk/museum 0845 123 5299 29 March-8 April 29 March – 8 April EGGcellent Easter Adventure Activity day camp Follow the trail to find the chicks and egg Over 80 fun and exciting hidden in the museum. You can then colour activities from sports to in an Easter animal mask of your choice to Arts & Craft. take home. There is a chocolate egg for every child.

NO ROOM AT THE INN! Sadly, we can't print all the listings we've received, but fear not— we've uploaded them all here for you: www.familiessouthwest.co.uk

38 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 SONG ACADEMY W, SW, C The leading Singing & Songwriting club for 8-16 year olds Hammersmith, Chelsea, Fulham, Notting Hill & Chiswick

EASTER WORKSHOPS 8-11 yr olds: 6th & 7th Apr & or 13th & 14th Apr 12-16 yr olds: 7th & 8th Apr

PLUS, Enter our YOUNG SONGWRITER 2016 COMPETITION, open to 7-18 YR OLDS

[email protected] 07710 023743 www.songacademy.co.uk

March/April 2016 ® 39 Pizzas!! Best ever party!

Delicious authentic Italian pizza HolidayBook camp, your 4-8 Easter April delivered right to "Music, theatre, dance" your party venue!

Church halls, school/nurseries... pappaciccia.com

Le petit conservatoire Quotefor Families a 10% discountmagazine Mes ateliers artistiques tout en français! We deliver to: For kids aged 3 to 10! A bientôt SW15 – SW14 – SW13 – SW18 – parts of SW19 SW6 – SW5 – SW7 – SW3 – SW10 – W6 – W14 www.lepetitconservatoire.co.uk

40 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Parties Three parties children love... but you hate

By Sarah Butters

Art parties Swimming parties Sleepoverss Don’t try this at home. No seriously. Most mums are reluctant to strip off to a Let’s face it. They shouldn’t be called sleepovers. This is one to hire a hall for and call in swimsuit when the sun is shining and the They should be called stay awake overs because you the experts. Arty parties are fab fun but sangria’s flowing. So the thought of doing it in will sleep about as well as a meerkat balanced on a frankly terrifying if you have a home that front of your school gate ‘chums’ while at the branch and the kids won’t sleep at all. However if local pool is unthinkable. However a you follow a few basic rules, you may survive. Keep swimming party is always a popular choice. the numbers low. As far as sleepovers go, more is Avoid hosting a swimming party for younger defiantly not merrier but children – wait until your child and their it is noisier. Keep them friends are fairly competent swimmers, thus busy – I’ve heard tales removing the need for parental submersion. of parents setting up Many such pools have a low rate room for night time obstacle hire so you can follow the wet fun with a courses to exhaust their homemade party tea to keep costs down. pint sized house guests. Remove electrical devices at a reasonable hour and make sure you you’re proud of. The idea of a dozen have a note of all Reception children attempting to find parental contacts. As the toilet, while their hands are coated sure as night follows day in a mixture of purple paint and glitter is someone will get homesick at about midnight and enough to make your reach for a infect everyone. For those who do survive the lunchtime Sauvignon Blanc. We have overnight stay, arrange for an early collection. It gives some super local providers who can you the day to remove Haribo from your beige save you the stress of a pre-school carpet, and you’ll only have your own sleep deprived, redecoration of your home. sugar shocked child to deal with.

PARTIES! Wonderfully fun musical parties for your under-5’s! Guitar-accompanied songs with actions, joining in, jumping and dancing, instruments, puppet and parachute! The perfect party for little ones. Call 020 8677 6871 [email protected] www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

March/April 2016 ® 41 Parties Your local party entertainers Parties for Perfect party pizza every time young folk Pappa Ciccia delivers delicious authentic Pizza to your party venue. Love the outdoors? First Hand With branches in Fulham and Experiences offer wonderfully Putney they are a popular choice theatrical parties set in the great with parents wanting a healthy outdoors. They take a well pizza with high quality ingredients. known, much loved children's They also have a highly rated story, and create a themed event Gluten free and Vegan pizza option. in which your child and their Pizza-making parties at their Fulham friends can immerse themselves branch remain a firm favourite. fully, thereby developing their Children get to make their own imagination. With the handmade pizza and enjoy a 2 hour party costumes they provide, interactive experience. outdoor games, live music and Details and ordering through their website or give them a call. songs all set in wonderful outdoor • 105/107 Munster Road, SW6 5RQ ( 7384 1884 space, your child and their friends • 41 Fulham High Street, SW6 3JJ ( 7736 0900 are sure to have their very own • 96 Lower Richmond Road, SW15 1IN ( 8785 7349 Luxury Star Wars wild rumpus! : pappaciccia.com Perfect for for 4-6 year olds. parties www.firsthandexperiences.co.uk See the children transported to a fantasy they’ve only ever dreamt Amazing magical parties for children about as they play, dance and Vice President of The Magic Circle, Richard Pinner is a party with their galactic idols in proper magician using strong magic to amaze and amuse Funky Moves latest party theme. children and adults alike. Drawing on 25 years of personal experience, Richard’s shows are perfect for Children are wowed as they play modern children, maintaining traditional birthday party values whilst using cutting edge magic. Parties full themed games with Princess Leia, of fun, laughter and amazement leave every child with tales to tell and special memories to keep. watch Luke Skywalker and Darth 020 7352 3524 [email protected] : MagicAndLaughter.co.uk Vader breakdance battle and become fully-qualified Jedis themselves as they perform an Ask the experts for help amazing final routine for the Occasions is a family run party shop based in Pimlico which specialises in mums and dads. Plus they can children’s parties, fancy dress and balloon decorating for all kinds of events. take home their very own light “We have been entertaining children for over 5 years with expert face painters, saber. It really is out of this world. balloon modelling, nail art and a full collection of party games guaranteed to [email protected] ensure your party is one to remember,” says owner Laura. Occasions is filled with a wide selection of children’s and adults fancy dress costumes to cover all themes. They also have accessories for all events including Hen & Stag parties and baby showers. Whether you are looking to hire their amazing popcorn machine, in need of a balloon arch or looking for Occassions’ Olaf mascot to attend your event, Occasions will fulfill your party needs, simply because they are experts at it! : occasionspimlico.co.uk

Lydiie Chiilldren’’s Partiies 0207 622 2540 The Unique Birthday Experience The theatre of Peter Pan, Superheroes, Fairies,Arabian Nights and more... In your home! Unforgettable Bilingual English/French www.lydieparties.com

42 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Parties Six great party bag fillers Because we all want to reduce plastic rubbish but can’t really avoid those blessed party bags altogether…

By Claire Muffett-Reece 4. Make your own Superhero 4 mask kit, £2.45 Not on the high street This crafty role play creation features cut outs, jewel embellishments, glue dots and elastic to design their very own super-hero mask.

1

1. Vegetable seed sticks, £1.05 Part Ark These pocket-sized treats contain vegetable seed-loaded card sticks, simply tear off and pop in to compost to germinate.

2. Julia Donaldson picture book 5. Catch a bubble, £3.95 5 collection, £11.99 Prezzybox The Book People After blowing, simply wait a few This line-up features 10 books 2 seconds for these clever bubbles to including The Gruffalo, A Squash and a set, before party guests can catch Squeeze and The Snail and the Whale – and stack them as high as they like! and all for under £1.20 a book! 6 6. Animal hand temporary tattoos, £3.95 3. Backyard science anthill making Prezzybox kit, £4.79 Sold as a box of eight these simple to apply creations include insectlore.com instructions for making a number of animal characters. Not too many kids to buy for? This mould-your-own plaster creation is designed to house real ants so kids can observe their daily activities. 3

Silly Millie the Clown Face Painting & Parties for 3-9 year olds Funny Magic Show, Puppet’s, Party Balloon Modelling Games, Silly Songs and Balloon Animals Contact Susie 07814 925462 Call 020 7823 8329 - 07939 239397 www.magicaldesigns.co.uk www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk Party shop New party shop opened by Miss Dee Faced and family catering for all your party needs in and around London. We have been entertaining at children’s parties for the past 5 years and specialize in balloon decorating so whether you are planning a wedding, christening, birthday or just after a fancy dress costume contact ENJOY 10% off balloons when Occasions. you book a party valid Childrens / Adult Face until 31st May painting Balloons 020 7730 7088 [email protected] Popcorn machine hire www.OccasionsPimlico.co.uk Fancy Dress 27 Ebury Bridge Road, Pimlico, SW1W 8QX

March/April 2016 ® 43 Mindfulness for children using creative breathing techniques, visualisation and other fun activities

I can help your child • relieve anxieties and fears • relieve exam stress • improve sleep patterns • increase self-esteem and confidence • develop concentration skills

Sessions can be 1-1 or group in central location in Putney Ellen Ley, BA (Hons) Early Years professional status Dip Counselling, Children & Young People [email protected] 020 8789 2474/07790 782157 Trained and qualified with founder and internationally renowned author Lorraine Murray

44 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 Health & well being Mindfulness for children It’s all the buzz – should your child do it too?

By Jawad Al-Nawab, a paws. b teacher

“Finger breathing is my favourite. I really enjoy it.” says Sasha aged 8, “I use it in class and I do it without anyone knowing.“

‘Finger breathing’ is one of the many practices children and parents learn whilst completing the 6 week paws .b training, which was developed by the Mindfulness in Schools Project in conjunction with the Centre for Research and Practice in Mindfulness, University of Wales. Launched in 2013, and developed specifically for primary school children, it is now taught across the country in schools, after-school clubs and also on a 1-2-1 basis. Children are introduced to a new practice each week, linked to an understanding of how the brain and emotions work.

Sasha’s mother, Peggy, a university lecturer, sat in on her child’s lessons and encourages parents to do so: ‘I think it is very important that parents sit in, it’s important for the parents to know what it is all about but also they’ll know how to engage with the material with their child, and practice together.”

Other paws .b practices learnt by Sasha and Mindfulness in Schools Project Peggy include petal hands, mindful floor (bum on chair), eating, chest and belly breathing, behaviour, specifically reduced hyperactivity breath counting and the popular FOFBOC and impulsivity, anxiety and depression. (feet on floor, bum on chair). What Mindfulness is Finally, I asked Sasha what she would tell other NOT: Benefits of Mindfulness children about paws .b, she paused and with a smile replied, “It keeps you calm; you can Soft, fluffy, hippy dippy Peggy explained that part of the original do it whenever you like; it’s easy to do and … you have fun!” I couldn’t have put it any There is a solid evidence base for motivation to teach her daughter mindfulness teaching mindfulness. was to assist with bedtimes and sleep. better myself. Mindfulness however, like exercise or a healthy balanced diet, is about much more. As If you would like to know more about the A disciplinary technique elite sports people, such as former English potential benefits of mindfulness for you and It’s for the learners themselves to rugby hero Jonny Wilkinson and basketball your child you will find the following sites an experience what is going on for player Michael Jordan have discovered, an excellent starting point: www.mindfulnessinschools.org them (agitation, anger, the urge to established mindfulness practice can definitely fidget etc). help us flourish. www.youthmindfulness.org/ym-kids- programme/ As a teacher of mindfulness and a parent, this Buddhism by the back door is what attracts me to it: parents and children •Jawad teaches in a variety of Mindfulness is totally secular and settings including schools, can learn and practice together, and can both can be engaged in by anyone of any drop-ins for parents and benefit—ultimately throughout our lives. The faith, or none. list of researched and documented benefits of carers, a weekly mindful ‘simply mindfulness is growing, it includes: increased walking’ group on Tooting Bec emotional regulation, social skills, better Common and a 8-week mindfulness for parents Relaxation attention and working memory, enhanced training. In March he will guide London’s first The prime goal of mindfulness is to sense of calmness, relaxation and self Mindful Cycling session. For more information be with whatever is happening, acceptance, increased quality of sleep. Equally, about any of these classes and training call ( including if necessary, tension and research shows decreased test anxiety, ADHD 077996 17693 or email [email protected] anxiety.

March/April 2016 ® 45 Make a cress head

Cress is an amazingly child-friendly plant, because it grows so fast in the smallest space and can be eaten. Packing the cress seeds into a homemade head means that once it germinates the cress will look like hair. The hair can then be trimmed with scissors and used in salads or in an egg and cress sandwich.

1. Tip some cress seeds into a stocking 2. Stuff the toe with cotton wool and 3. Make a nose for the head using an or a leg cut from a pair of tights knot the end of the tight to make a elastic band to pinch the filling

4. Add the finishing features and stand One of the many ideas from The Children’s Cress will germinate in eggshells filled your cress in a container of water Garden, published by Frances Lincoln £14.99 with damp cotton wool. Bon appétit!

46 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 March/April 2016 ® 47 Learning to have fun with live music for ages 6 months - 4 years Local favourite First Steps Academy is excited to introduce Ballroom & Latin Dance to our existing timetable. Build your child’s confidence and creativity through a plethora of dance styles ranging from Jive to Waltz.

This class is open to children aged 6-11 years old Wednesdays from 5:15-6:15pm, STRICTLY BALLROOM classes only £7.50 Call: 020 8677 6871 & LATIN CLASSES @ First Steps Academy of Dance & Drama

First Steps Academy 234 Lillie Road, Fulham, SW6 7QA. 0207 381 5224 [email protected] www.firststepsacademy.co.uk

48 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 What’s on We took every care in Science Family preparing these entries but sometimes events are Fun Day cancelled or times changed. John Burns Primary School, Wycliffe Please double check event Road SW11 5QR with the organiser to avoid : sciencefamilyday.com disappointment. 12 March Fun-packed afternoon of science for all the family With DIARY DATES hands-on experiments, Colour Magic chemistry trail, Make & See more events in our online Take home activities and the Family Engineering Challenge. calendar What’s On Plus water and bubble shows from Science Made Simple – Do-re-mi Babies prepare to get wet! 1.30pm- Concerts 5.30pm, entry £3 per child, £2.50 siblings, free for adults. Barnes, Chelsea, Fulham, Wandsworth Brockwell Park Community Greenhouse : doremibabies.co.uk workshops 10.30am-12.30pm, £5 Great opportunity to see owls, Dates throughout March & Pump House Gallery per child Email hawks and falcons up close. Fun April Battersea Park SW11 4NJ education@brockwellgreenhouse for all the family. 2pm–4pm Inspirational and fun classical : pumphousegallery.org.uk s.org.uk to join the family event concerts. With different 13 and 27 March Sunday mailing list. musicians, instruments and Socials: Cut and Paste Drop in 28-30 March and 4-6 April Talk on employment programmes there is plenty to to these family workshops with a Easter Holiday Workshops inspire your little ones. Babies and range of art activities for all ages, issues Family workshops for all ages, toddlers are welcome to crawl, 11.30am-3.30pm, free, no using the garden as inspiration for Cannizaro Hotel, West Side dance, sing, cry, nappy change booking required. games, craft, stories, food and Common, London SW19 4UE and more, so you can relax and FREE ( more. Check the website or 8947 7997 enjoy some wonderful music. £10 : email sw19lawyers.co.uk per adult, children free, tickets Merton Active education@brockwellgreenhouse 21 April online or on the door. Dates vary : merton.gov.uk/watersports2 s.org.uk for details. All workshops Coffee morning by Employment depending on venue. Saturday 19th March 10.30-12.30pm, £5 specialists, SW19Lawyers, about Give watersports a try at their issues facing working mothers and The Royal Albert Hall taster session Chelsea Physic mothers thinking about going Kensington Gore SW7 2AP Open to anybody aged 8 years or back to work after maternity : royalalberthall.com older (including parents and Garden leave. 9-11am. Babies and Every Wednesday in March grandparents) Two sessions 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea toddlers welcome. FREE and April available 10am-11am or 11.30am- SW3 4HS Storytelling and Music 12.30pm, £20 per person per : chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Sessions Session for babies and session 29-31 March and 5-7 April The Wallace toddlers, encouraging interaction Easter Activities Includes Collection between parents and their little Mum2Mum Market Spectacular Seeds, Water World, ones using musical instruments, Nearly New Sale Puppetry in Motion, Animal Hertford House, Manchester singing, movement and stories. Encounters, Potions and Poisons Square W1U 3BN The Church of St Stephen and St : Ages 0-4, 10am and 11.30am, £5 and more. Times, ages and dates wallacecollection.org Thomas hall, on the junction of vary so check the website. 29 March NCT Kensington And Coverdale Road and Uxbridge Pixel Art Using 'Hama' beads Road W12 8JJ Painshill Park work with artist Hattie Moore to Chelsea Meet Up 19 March create a very special pixelated Portsmouth Road, Cobham Gambado Chelsea, 7 Townmead Buy top quality baby and version of your favourite painting KT11 1JE Road SW6 2PY children's secondhand goods at or object in the Wallace : painshill.co.uk : nct.org.uk/branches/ these award winning, pop-up Collection. 10.30am–12.30pm or 29 March – 8 April kensington-chelsea baby and children's market nearly 2–4pm, £7 per child, age 6 +, to Wild Easter Camp Have a wild Every Wednesday in March new sales. Admission £2 on the book call 020 7563 9527 or email adventure with bushwhacking, and April door, children free. 3.30-5.30pm [email protected] bivouac building and mud A great opportunity to meet 31 March sculptures. Ages 8-13, 9am- other mums with babies under 1. Brockwell Park Painting Portraits Learn how 4.30pm, £40 a day or £170 for a 9.30-11am, £1, show your NCT to paint a portrait using acrylic Community 5 day week. Advance booking card to get in. paints with artist Alison Kusner. required. Call 01932 868113 or Greenhouses Explore some of the different book online www.painshill.co.uk Sew Me Pretty Brockwell Park, SE24 9BJ portraits found throughout the 24 April : brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk Wallace Collection before Wimbledon Park Road SW19 6PE Bird Song Walk Learn all about 19 March, 2 and 16 April learning how to paint with : sewpretty.me.uk how to identify birds by song and Saturday Family Workshops acrylics. 10.30am-3.30pm, £12, 13 March by sight. For ages 12+, 8am - Join BPCG on the 1st and 3rd age 9–13, to book call 020 7563 Open Day Want to learn 10.30am, £15/£10, advance Saturdays of the month for fun- 9527 or email something different, but not sure booking required. filled family workshops for all [email protected] if you want to commit to a full 24 April ages. Learn, make, explore and 6 April course yet? Come along and Birds of Prey Flying Display garden, taking inspiration from The Little Draw Free drop-in enjoy a free 45min session with a Watch fantastic flying displays and nature. Includes National Science drawing workshop for all ages glass of bubbly, tea and cake. discover more about the Week and The Big Dig. All and abilities, 1.30–4.30pm FREE 10am-2pm, ages 10+ wonderful world of falconry. Cont p.50

March/April 2016 ® 49 What’s on 8 April Little Folk with Albo Badge of Honour Explore the LOCAL MOTHER & BABY Wallace Collection looking at Concert from p 49 paintings and objects that reflect Colour House Theatre, Watermill the spring season. Draw your Way SW19 2RD CINEMAS favourites before using different : littlefolkwithalbo.com Enjoy a film with baby for a change! Screening times were not collage techniques to create your 23 April available at time of going to press. own badge back in our studio. Albo continues his third season of Ages 5+, 11am – 1pm folk style concerts for kids 0–5 Toddler Time at Ritzy Picturehouse and their families. Come for folk Coldharbour Lane, Brixton SW2 1JG Fulham Palace song favourites, American camp ( 020 7733 2229 songs, traditional children’s songs SW6 6EA : picturehouses.com/cinema/Ritzy_Picturehouse and Albo originals for kids. 10.30- : fulhampalace.org For preschool children and their parents or carers, Tuesdays and 11.15am, £5 Throughout March and April Thursdays at 11am, £3 per child The Palace Explorers For children aged 2-4, £3 per child, First Aid Course Big Scream at Clapham Picturehouse which includes a drink and healthy Battersea ( 020 8133 8552 Venn Street, Clapham SW4 0AT snack. Booking essential, 10.30- : ( 0871 704 2055 11.30am firstaidtraininglondon.co.uk [email protected] : picturehouses.com/cinema/Clapham_Picturehouse 19 March 19th March and 16 April For parents or carers with babies under the age of 1, Sundays and Young Archaeologists’ Club: Accredited Paediatric First Thursdays at 10.30am, £8 adults, babies free Aerial Photography for Aid course £80+vat Archaeology Join Martyn Newbies at Odeon Putney Barber, Senior Investigator, Aerial Survey & Investigation at Historic 26 Putney High Street SW15 1SN ( England, for the final Mum2Mum Market 0871 224 4007 Archaeologists' Club this team, Nearly New Sale : odeon.co.uk/cinemas/putney Baby-friendly screenings of the latest releases, days and times vary, looking at how aerial photography Ricards Lodge High School, Lake babies go free can be used by archaeologists. Road, Wimbledon SW19 7HB 10.30am-12.15pm, £15 : mum2mummarket.co.uk Electric Scream at Electric Cinema 29 March 23 April Palace Stories Hear the Palace’s Buy or sell quality baby and 191 Portobello Road W11 2ED ( history brought to life in these kids goods at this pop-up indoor 020 7908 9696 tales of the characters who lived market. 43 stalls under one roof : electriccinema.co.uk here and stories inspired by our with thousands of kids bargains at For parents or carers with babies under 1, Mondays 11am, £12.50 beautiful surroundings. 2pm- a fraction of the high street price. to £20, babies free 2.30pm, free, no booking Admission £2, kids free, 2-4pm necessary. FREE 3 April London Transport A Night with Boy Blue One of Chickenshed Museum Drop-in During this the UK’s most sought-after hip- Stone Age themed family drop-in, Museum’s Depot hop dance companies presents an Kensington and try on period costume, handle 118-120 Gunnersbury Lane, Acton energy-fuelled showcase of Chelsea To w n W 3 9 B Q artefacts and learn about the astonishing moves and urban Chelsea Theatre, 7 Worlds Ends : history of Fulham Palace. 2pm- ltmuseum.co.,uk music. Age 6+, £15-£20 Place SW10 0DR 3.30pm, free, no booking 23-24 April : chickenshed.org.uk Open Weekend - The A to Z of necessary. FREE The Cambridge 22-23 March London A rare opportunity to Theatre Ta k e A w a y The story of a town see inside London Transport GoSkyRide in the grip of onions - everyone is Museum’s Depot in Acton, which Seven Dials, 32-34 Earlham Street : goskyride.com doing what they can to get their holds over 320,000 artefacts from WC2H 9HU Cycling’s even more fun when : fix. A poetic ensemble piece London’s transport history and is uk.matildathemusical.com you ride with other people. about a community who pay the usually closed to the public. The Throughout March and April Check out a range of easy ways price for refusing to keep their event will celebrate the 100-year Matilda The Musical Inspired by to get out on two wheels with promise. Age 11+, 7pm, £8/£5 anniversary of the Johnston the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, your children. Big traffic-free rides Matilda revels in the anarchy of for all ages and abilities. Use the typeface with themed workshops, Colour House tours, talks and family fun. £10/£8, childhood, the power of Easter holidays to be cycle more imagination and the inspiring story Theatre confident, ready to cycle to under 17s free of a girl who dares to change her Watermill Way SW19 2RD school! destiny. : colourhousetheatre.co.uk Geffrye Museum DRAMA Every Saturday and Sunday to Broadway Theatre 10 April 136 Kingsland Road, Hoxton Catford Broadway SE6 4RU Hansel and Gretel Hansel and E2 8EA See more events in our online : broadwaytheatre. Gretel are lost in the forest with : geffrye-museum.org.uk calendar What’s On ticketsolve.com/shows no hope of finding their way back 5-8 April 6 April home. When they find a house Easter Holiday Activities The Barbican Pop Factor 2016 A celebration made of sweets they think their Celebrate the changes of the Theatre of the biggest popstars and luck has changed, but things take season in Spring has Sprung. current chart hits. From Taylor a turn for the worse. 2pm and Decorate plant pots, make Barbican Centre, Silk Street Swift to Ed Sheeran, top 4pm, £12/£10 scented herb bags and create EC2Y 8DS professionals perform a current Every Saturday in March and garden animals from clay. Ages 5- : barbican.org.uk set list for a non-stop high energy April 16, 10.30am-12.30pm and 2-4pm 8-9 April ride for the whole family. 2.30pm Little Folk with Albo Popular FREE Boy Blue Entertainment

50 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 What’s on

Wimbledon folksinger Al Clogston signature blend of intricate 18-20 March Bed Time It's bed time, but it’s performs a series of Saturday puppetry and mesmeric music, Nipt Meet two neighbours who not quite time to go to sleep… morning concerts for kids. Folk Leaper follows one fish's arduous borrow each other’s sugar, tea, Celebrate this very special time of songs, American camp songs, quest against the ever-growing vacuum cleaner, the odd egg, old day with songs, storytelling, traditional children’s songs, sing- natural and manmade challenges family photographs and a piece of silliness and maybe even a pillow alongs and original songs, of the sea. 11am and 1pm, £8 wall. But what happens when fight! £12/£9 10.30am, £5 16 April they move in together? Ages 6+, 6-8 May Every Saturday and Sunday Three Keepers Welcome to £13.50/£10 Frogs and Snails and Teddy from 23 April Flounder Rock Lighthouse, where 19 March-15 April Bear Tales It’s bear’s birthday The Little Mermaid In the three men live and work, battling Happy Harry's Cafe Happy tomorrow. His head is full of depths of the ocean lives Aerial, a the elements and the long lonely Harry serves great soup at his excitement. How will he ever get young mermaid who dreams of a night watches, with only each café. It’s so deliciously good that to sleep? Children are invited to faraway land. When the magical other and the seagulls for his friends all rush to get there bring a teddy bear to share the Sea Witch grants Aerial’s wish, company. 11am and 1pm, £8 before it runs out. But today performance. £12/£9 casting a spell to make her a something’s wrong with Matt – he human, what will happen when New Wimbledon says the soup’s no good. Ages 3- Puppet Theatre she falls in love with a walking Theatre 5, £12/£9 Barge human Prince? 2pm and 4pm, 23 March-10 April £12/£10 The Broadway, Wimbledon Snow White With endless meals Little Venice, Blomfield Road SW19 1QG to prepare, a pile of dishes to W9 2PF : : atgtickets.com/venues/new- wash - not to mention the huge puppetbarge.com wimbledon-theatre mirror that needs polishing To 13 March 22-26 March morning, noon and night - life’s Joey's Fireworks A marionette Matthew Bourne's Sleeping never easy for the royal servants spectacle celebrating the arrival of Beauty If you loved Nutcracker! downstairs at the palace. the New Year and featuring and the famous Swan Lake with £13.50/£10 traditional characters such as its all-male ensemble, this 16-17 April Burglar Bill, Dog Toby, Joey the production will become another The Emperor's New Clothes Clown and Mr Punch. 3yrs+, firm favourite. From £19.40 Illusions of grandeur are burst like £8.50/£10 20-21 April soap bubbles as the well-known From 19 March Peppa Pig's Surprise Peppa, story of vanity is recounted with a The Town Mouse and the George and their friends are back washing machine, a clothes line, Country Mouse These two in Wimbledon in a brand new live puppets and song. £12/£9 famous cousins visit each other stage show. From £17.15 22-24 April and both experience new sights 26-30 April Rumpelstiltskin A fairytale and sounds. Town Mouse meets Riverdance Riverdance has favourite spun before your eyes in the Billy Goats Gruff whilst Colour House Theatre performed across the UK where Country Mouse meets a town cat Hansel and Gretel this woolly wonderland of a show it has been experienced by over with weaving, puppetry and and a grandfather clock. Music, The Little Angel 2.9 million people in over 1000 music. £12/£9 songs and rod puppets for 3-8 performances! From £36.65 27 April to 1 May year olds. 3pm Cont p.52 Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross Street Omnibus Clapham N1 2DN 1 Clapham Common Northside The Little Angel Theatre : littleangeltheatre.com SW4 0QW 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross Street N1 2DN ® : omnibus-clapham.org 12-13 March ( LOVES! Alice in Wonderland Join Alice 13 March 7226 1787 : on her remarkable journey in this Sea Story Weaving together 100 littleangeltheatre.com Have you discovered this little gem of a theatre new production to enchant all stories written by young people, yet? Although it’s a bit ages. Sea Story takes you on a magical further, tucked away in 17-18 March journey over, under, and through the heart of Islington, Frankenstein the sea. 11am and 2pm, £9/£7 Little Angel Theatre is 24 March – 1 April 6-8 April very special: it is one of Handa's Hens Storystock If you’re a Wimpy only three building-based 2-7 April Kid, like Potter or are as mad as a puppet theatres in The Magic Beanstalk Hatter, you’ll love Storystock. England. Established in 8-10 April Bookish acts bring stories to life 1961, the theatre is at Leaper through shows, storytelling, the centre of all of their 16 April – 26 June creative workshops, parties and a activities, standing side- We're Going on a Bear Hunt story treasure hunt. Ages 2-11, 10am-5pm by-side with a workshop Lyric Hammersmith where all of their new The Polka Theatre productions and puppets Lyric Square, Kings Street W6 0QL are developed, carved and constructed. : lyric.co.uk 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon With a wide range of high quality puppet theatre, Little Angel Theatre 12 March SW19 1SB is aimed at family audiences, offering workshops alongside their shows : The Elves and the Shoemaker polkatheatre.com and a lively and imaginative Education Programme with schools, youth Ah, new shoes... Delightful on the 10-13 March and community groups. feet. Soft, dancing shoes, swarthy Kite A lonely girl is taken to live Why not sign up now for their Saturday Puppet Club, Crafty Kids Club pirate shoes, silver buckle and in her grandma’s flat where the or Youth Theatre? Or join in one of their regular Kids Fun Days and silken soles. No one makes shoes windows are shut tight. Her holiday clubs. Plus, you can hire the theatre for an event or a party, or like an elf. 11am and 1pm, £8 memories of seagulls and sand even hire a puppet! 19 March dunes begin to fade until one Leaper - A Fish Tale Using a night a handmade kite comes to life. £13.50/£10

March/April 2016 ® 51 What’s on Putney Arts Theatre control of every corner of the Tricycle with performances of Ravenna Road SW15 6AW theatre, film, music, poetry and FARMERS’ MARKETS : from p 51 ticketsource.co.uk/putney more. This 11-day event is in its artstheatre Stay clear from processed food, embrace fresh, local produce .. 3rd year so keep an eye out for 30 March-1 April covered with lovely earth hmmm .. new exciting ways to get involved. The Big Top Create your own fun at the circus and use your Balham Farmers’ Market imagination to make this Big Top Henry Cavendish Primary School, Hydethorpe Road, Balham SW12 0JA come alive with drama, music and MUSEUMS & ( 020 7833 0338 movement. Ages 4-7 (4 year olds : facebook.com/Balham-Farmers-Market must be in reception), 10am-2pm, GALLERIES Every Saturday, 9am-1pm. The school is a perfect location for a £65 for the whole workshop. farmers' market, with lots of space to fill with fresh fruit, juices, 17-19 March See more events in our online vegetables, meat, poultry, eggs, honey, breads and much more. Try It Snows Boy doesn’t meet Girl. What’s On calendar the hot food stalls (hot dogs and hamburgers) and check the Balham Girl doesn’t meet Boy. Mum and Facebook page for updates about guest stalls. Dad have declared war...against The British Museum each other. Weird neighbour. Lavender Hill Farmers’ Market Usual ordinary gloominess. Then, Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG : Shaftesbury Park Primary School, Ashbury Road, Battersea SW11 5UW one day, it snows. britishmuseum.org ( 12 March 020 7833 0338 4-8 April : Innovation Lab Use a new digital facebook.com/Lavender-Hill-Farmers-Market Ariadne and the Minotaur Every Saturday, 10am-2pm. Stalls include Ambrose Sausages, device, experiment with exciting Because of a past wrong, Athens Brambletye Fruit Farms, Moreton Mushrooms and Windrush Valley software or work with a digital is forced to ship off young people Goat Dairy. to Crete every few years. On expert. 11am-4pm arrival, boys and girls are met by 26 March South Kensington Saturday Farmers’ the man-eating Minotaur. Can British Museum Broadcast Prince Theseus save future Use mobile devices to create Market children from this tragedy? Ages your own news report in the Bute Street, South Kensington SW7 3EX 7-11, 10am-4pm, £105 for the galleries, inspired by Museum ( 020 7833 0338 whole workshop. objects. 11am-4pm : facebook.com/South-Kensington-Farmers-Market 27 March Every Saturday 9am-2pm. South Kensington Farmers' Markets St James Theatre Digital Workshop - Digital takes place in one of Kensington's premier foodie destinations and Dress Up Turn yourself into a 12 Palace Street SW1E 5JA has been a hit with locals on Saturdays when the street is closed to Samurai warrior, an ancient Greek : stjamestheatre.co.uk traffic. Look out for traditional sausages from Parsons Nose, fresh or other characters using From 13 April fish from Les Lawrence's day boats on the South coast and a fantastic Photoshop. Age 7+, 11am-4pm My Mother Said I Never array of soft fruit. Bute Street itself is also home to some great food 3 April Should Keatley’s award winning shops including a fabulous ice cream parlour and excellent Every Drawing Tells a Story play is a moving exploration of the fishmongers. Develop your drawing skills using relationships between mothers a range of exciting software on and daughters and the Twickenham Farmers’ Market tablets and phones. 11am-4pm consequences of breaking the Holly Road Car Park, Twickenham TW1 4HF 12 April most sacred taboo of ( 020 7833 0338 motherhood. 2.30pm and : facebook.com/TwickenhamFarmersMarket 7.30pm, £15-£45 Every Saturday 9am-1pm. One of London's longest-running Digital Workshop: Conductive farmers' markets, with a real community atmosphere. Top priority is Weaving Inspired by shoes in the The Tricycle Theatre the food - look out for great organic lamb, beef and mutton from Museum's Collection, create your Grant at Lee House Farm, fresh fruit and veg from farms in Kent, 269 Kilburn High Road NW6 7JR own magical shoes that light up Oxfordshire and Lincolnshire and always a healthy selection of great- : tricycle.co.uk when conductive threads create a value house and garden plants from Surrey-based Beauchamp 13-23 March circuit. Drop-in, 11am-4pm Takeover 2016: Paradise Nurseries. Young people from Brent and Foundling Museum surrounding areas will take 40 Brunswick Square, singers, Bach to Baby concerts at Learn traditional methods of Camden Town the Foundling Museum are bookmaking to produce a bound WC1N 1AZ inspired by Handel and bring copy of your own story. Sessions : foundlingmuseum classical music to babies and their 10.30-12pm, 1-2.30pm and 3- .org.uk parents. 10-11am, adults £10, 4.30pm 17 March children free 5 April Bach to Baby Led by 26 March Shh! We Have a Plan classical musicians and Illustrated Book Binding Join Illustrator Chris Haughton leads a artist Daniel very special family workshop. Lehan to Inspired by his hilarious children’s create and book Shh! We Have a Plan, join illustrate a them on a fun adventure to story capture a beautiful bird perched inspired by high in a tree, using puppets and characters collage. Sessions 10.30-12pm, 1- featured in 2.30pm and 3-4.30pm the 23 April exhibition Spinning Tales Explore Drawing on characters in the exhibition Childhood. Drawing on Childhood and create

52 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 What’s on an optical toy that brings the tales by torchlight in this special after of these child heroes to life. hours' event. Enjoy hands-on Sessions 10.30am, 1pm and 3pm activities throughout the night exploring London's history. 6.45- Horniman Museum 9.30pm, ages 7-11, £60, book in 100 London Road SE23 3PQ advance. : horniman.ac.uk Every Saturday in March & The National Gallery April Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN Hands on Family Workshop : nationalgallery.org.uk Fun family sessions exploring a Every Sunday in March and different theme each week using April real museum objects. Family Sundays Activities 11.45am–12.30pm and 1–1.45pm designed for families to enjoy and Every Saturday in March & learn together, 11am and 2pm, April age 5-11 FREE Art Makers Have fun with art skills and exciting techniques to Natural History create something fabulous to take Museum

home. 1.30pm–2.15pm and Sissinghurst Nuttery - NT Jonathan Buckley 2.45–3.30pm Cromwell Road SW7 5BD Sissinghurst Castle Garden, a joy at Easter : nhm.ac.uk Check out walks in National Trust properties and on Familiesonline Imperial War To 10 April Wildlife Photographer of the including the Clangers, Bagpuss, 8 April Museum Year Visit the Natural History Noggin the Nog and Ivor the Drop-In Art Workshop: Badge Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ Museum's world-renowned Engine. Drop-in, all ages, 2-4pm of Honour : iwm.org.uk exhibition to see the best wildlife FREE Look at paintings and objects that 19-20 March photographs on the planet. From 25 March – 8 April reflect the spring season. Draw Introduction to the Holocaust £6.75 Easter Holiday Activities your favourites before using A free discussion and replica Includes Small Films Marathon, different collage techniques to object handling session. Suitable Science Museum Puppet Workshop, Cosmic create your own badge. for children aged 11 and above. Exhibition Road, South Kensington Shoebox Workshop, Drawing Drop-in, age 5+, 11am-1pm 11.30am and 2.30pm SW7 2DD Workshop. Drop in, all ages. FREE 25-31 March : sciencemuseum.com 23 April Make a Moving Animation Throughout March and April St George's Day Discover the Create your own spinning Leonardo da Vinci: The delights of English folk music and DAYS OUT drawing, based on a popular 19th Mechanics of Genius The dance traditions with rousing century toy called a Mechanics of Genius brings the song, dance and instrumental Thaumatrope. 11am-4pm intricate mechanical concepts of performances by the Trad See more events in our online Leonardo da Vinci’s restless and Academy. Drop-in, all ages, What’s On calendar Museum of London curious mind to life in a major 11.30am-4.30pm FREE Docklands interactive exhibition. £10 The Wallace The Battersea Park E14 4AL V&A Museum of : museumoflondon.org.uk/ Collection Children’s Zoo docklands Childhood Hertford House, Manchester Battersea Park SW11 4NJ 19 March Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA Square W1U 3BN : batterseapark.org : London’s night owls sleepover : vam.ac.uk/moc/events wallacecollection.org 26 March-10 April What happens in the Museum 25-27 March 3 April Easter Fun Includes Easter Egg once the doors close for the Easter Weekend Short Films The Little Draw Drop-in Trail, Spring Trail, Rabbit Day, night? Walk in the shoes of past Marathon See back-to-back drawing workshop for all ages and Hedgehog Day and much more. Londoners and hunt the galleries abilities. 1.30-4.30pm Entrance fees apply.

screenings of animated classics Cont p. 54

Children Learning to Succeed

Maths, English, 11+ Preparation

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

March/April 2016 ® 53 What’s on Dance, sing and set sail on an 12-13 March adventure with Nannie, Cutty Cracking Codes Sark's figurehead. 11am, 12noon, Intercept messages, map hazards from p.55 1.30pm and 2.30pm on a sea chart and make up your 29-31 March own secret code. Learn about the Land Yachts skills intelligence officers had to Make your own amazing land have as well as some of the yacht powered by the wind, just dangers that surrounded HMS like Cutty Sark, and take part in Belfast at sea. 11am-12.30pm and some fun science demos to find 2-4pm out about ships and sailing. 11.30am-1.30pm, 2-4pm The London Wetlands Firepower - The Centre Queen Elizabeth, Barnes Royal Artillery SW13 9WT Battersea Park children's zoo Museum : wwt.org.uk Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST 16 March The Chelsea Physic Cutty Sark Star Gazing Evening : firepower.org.uk Garden King William Walk, Greenwich Throughout March and April Expand your horizons by discovering more about the stars 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea SE10 9HT In Their own Words : and the planets in our solar SW3 4HS rmg.co.uk An exhibition about the Great system and the galaxies beyond. : 25-31 March War bringing to life artillerymen chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 6.30-8.30pm, £10 12 April Ahoy Captain! of different nations, through 25 March – 10 April Snowdrop Days Meet Captain Woodget, Cutty extracts from their diaries, letters Easter Duck Hunt The Garden’s annual Snowdrop Sark’s longest serving master, to home and photographs. Some of the ducklings have gone Days return with stunning new learn about life on board the missing, can you help them find displays highlighting the fastest tea clipper. 11am, 12noon, HMS Belfast them? Follow the Easter duck snowdrops intricate beauty. With 1.30pm and 2.30pm The Queen's Walk SE1 2JH trail around the nature reserve to a programme of walks, talks and 27 March : iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast discover where they are hiding. workshops.10am-4pm Nannie the Witch Classified South West London Junior Chess Club Experienced tutors. Weekly Chess Club, Holiday clubs and private tuition. 07718 883285 [email protected] www.swchess.co.uk

Violin and Piano Tuition Passionate about teaching. Experienced. Conservatory diploma. SW15 based. Home visits possible. 0208 785 6494 /07956 307624 [email protected] PUBLIC SPEAKING Individual Tuition Piano Lessons Creative Writing Experienced piano teacher Speech & Drama based in Streatham Hill, SW2 Clare Price. LGSM, ALAM 07795 625 564 [email protected] [email protected] tommyharrington.co.uk (020) 7735 3156

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54 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® March/April 2016 March/April 2016 ® 55