® SouthWest January/February 2016

Nursery Special Feature Why every mum should dance! Fresh New Year New You ideas for 2016

Are we over-testing our children? FARMERS’ MARKETS What you need to know when Helping children cope choosing a nursery or playgroup in difficult times Diary dates and events suitable for children School Open Days

Really useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in SW London ® 25 ANNIVERSARY YEARS Find us online: FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Dreaming of relocating your family to Surrey?

Property Potential is a family-focused, professional home search company.

We are your eyes and ears on the ground saving you wasted journeys to view unsuitable houses. Our excellent contacts mean we are first to hear about the very best properties before they hit the open market.

Call Maranda (07776 779993) or Jen (07776 779998) to see how we can help you.

[email protected] www.propertypotentialsurrey.co.uk

2 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Contents Families® SW London | January-February 2016 | Issue 253

We wish all our readers a FEATURES peaceful New Year 06-07 New Year New You Fresh ideas for 2016

09-14 Education •School news •Open days •Are we over-testing our children? See pages 27-41 for our Nursery Special Feature 22-23 Dance yourself happy Why dancing is good for us IN EVERY ISSUE 24 Travel 04-05 Local news Should you go on holiday with another family? 08 Families ‘Top 5’ this month 26 Health and well-being 18-19 Club & Classes news How art therapy can help children cope

42-46 What’s On •Diary dates & events 27-41 Nursery Feature •Theatre •Nursery news •Museums and galleries •What you need to know when choosing a •Days out nursery or playgroup •The power of play 47 Classified •To ipad or not to ipad?

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

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 3 Please tell Local News advertisers you saw them in Families It makes a HUGE difference Thank you

Publishers James and Pascale Gravell celebrated 25 amazing years with advertisers and the team–journalists, designer, sales support, marketing, distributing team, etc, at Eddie Catz’s premises in Putney. A great evening looking back over our 25 years in business and looking forward to a further 25! Families is Picture credit to Bourton Meadow School Picture going from strength to strength. Watch Register now for wear a hat day out for an amazing new website with state of the art search facilities, Wear A Hat Day is a fun-filled, annual brain tumour awareness event helping WhatsOn apps and more. support research. The organiser, Brain Tumour Research, is asking families and children and schools across the UK to put 27 March 2015 in their diaries and don a hat to support the cause. Boosting sports in Battersea Involving families and school children in the campaign is poignant, given that Plans for a new 3G all-weather pitch in Falcon Park are afoot, as brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age part of an initiative to boost sports for young people in of 40. Children have lost parents, family members and teachers, and in many Battersea. The £1.3m pitch will hopefully gain approval this classrooms there remains a tragic reminder of a child whose life has been lost winter, and would replace four existing grass pitches which are or damaged by this cruel cancer. regularly unplayable in the winter months. Replacing them with Schools, nurseries, organisations and individuals can all register by visiting an all weather playing surface means young footballers and other : braintumourresearch.org/wearahatday sports clubs could use them for around 80 hours a week – a huge increase on what is currently possible. Although the new Note: Just to be safe it is always best to avoid prolonged proximity of any wifi pitch would most often be used for local boys and girls’ football enabled devices next to your child; this includes your wifi router. A simple clubs, there may also be scope for cricket too. Fingers crossed basic precaution consists of turning it off at night. Ed. for the local clubs!

Big Garden Birdwatch Last year over half a million people took part in the RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch, spotting more than 8.5 million birds across the UK, and the organisers are hoping this year's watch will be a record-breaking event.

This year's survey takes part on 30 and 31 January. To take part, simply spend one hour counting the birds in your garden or local park, and record the highest number of each bird species seen at any one time. The morning is the best time to look, when the birds are out and about feeding after a cold winter night. To sign up for a free Big Garden Birdwatch 2016 pack, go to : rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

4 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Local News

Cinema for less Get sporty in H&F Take a look at BFI Southbank’s Hammersmith and Fulham council has new £3 ticket offer in their new announced new plans for sports facilities in 25 & Under scheme. With Hammersmith Park. A previous scheme was savings on tickets to events and for all-weather sport facilities, a bar and car Q&As as well as the cinema, park, however residents raised concerns you can save over £8 on regular about the scale of the scheme and the loss of priced tickets. Not bad at all! potential community use. The new scheme is The scheme follows on from a not only less intrusive and more beneficial but successful trial at this year's BFI the plans involve much wider availability to London Film Festival, where local schools and residents, earlier closing last minute £5 tickets were times and the facility remaining under the offered to young people. So whether it's the latest critical hit, a must-see indie flick or a Q&A ownership of the council. It includes a 10- with talent such as recent guests John Waters or Judi Dench, the BFI Southbank has an event pitch centre, club house, a new café and a to suit every taste. It’s a must for everyone from budding filmmakers to young film fans, large number of cycle racks. Keep your eyes cinephiles and students. : bfi.org.uk/southbank peeled – it should be open later in the spring.

Cleaner, greener and cheaper This month Co-wheels Car Club, a social enterprise and the UK’s largest independent operator of its kind, lands in Wandsworth. With 10 low emission pay-as-you-go cars available for residents, the Car Club is also a community interest company, with all of their profits ploughed back into expanding and improving the service, and keeping rates as low as possible for Recycle your cards to members. With their cars polluting 40% less than the average public-owned car, this car club’s mission is to help get cars plant new trees off the road by encouraging car sharing, to improve the environment and congestion in city centres. A great idea, we’re sure you will agree! There are more bays planned for later in 2016, The UK’s largest woodland conservation and now new members can join for free with no annual membership fees. charity is calling on the public to recycle To claim your code go to co-wheels.org.uk/wandsworth their cards this Christmas to help plant thousands of trees across the UK. For every 1,000 cards dropped in to M&S stores for recycling throughout January, a new tree will be planted in the UK. The A taste of democracy for Merton Woodland Trust and M&S have set an ambitious target to collect and recycle six Children in Merton got a feeler for democracy in Local Democracy Week, when the Civic million Christmas cards and therefore plant Centre opened its doors to the borough’s primary school children. With lots of activities plus a 6,000 trees. tour of the building, children took a look at the Council Chamber where all the major decisions are made, and visited the Mayor’s Parlour where the Mayor spoke to them about his ceremonial The Woodland Trust has been planting trees duties. MP Siobhain McDonagh also took schools from her constituency on a tour of the and standing up for woodland for 40 years. Houses of Parliament. What an opportunity! Local Democracy Week aims to encourage Today, the charity owns more than 1,000 democratic participation and inspire young people to get involved in local politics. ‘Our young woods which are open year round for the people are the future of this borough and Local Democracy Week is a great way to spark their public to enjoy free of charge. interest in local decision making,’ said Merton’s cabinet member for children’s services, : woodlandtrust.org.uk Councillor Maxi Martin. Find out more at : congress-eldw.eu

DID YOU KNOW? BUY THIS Simple wireless precautions for pregnant women Organic hemp for kids More than one hundred medical doctors, scientists and public Brand new hemp and organic clothing range health experts from around the world have signed a Joint for children, Poco Rosso is not only good for Statement advising pregnant women to take simple precautions to the planet – it’s long lasting and fun, and comes protect themselves and their babies from wireless radiation. The at supermarket prices! Mum of two Emma is Statement is part of a national right-to-know passionate about her natural and chemical free campaign called the Babysafe Project created range, so no nasties next to your child’s skin. by two non-profit organizations to inform Mix and match the collection of essentials with pregnant women about the issue. an array of funky colours, for ages 3-8. Check out her ethical fashion at : bohohemp.com : babysafeproject.org/the-joint-statement

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 5 New Year New You Fresh ideas for 2016

Health and Wellness Tired of trying all the Try a virtual event 16th January 2016 latest diets? complementary health Need health and fitness advice? Don’t know Rita Arora Pharmacist and Nutritionist BSc clinic? where to turn to or who to speak to? The Hons mBANT tells Families: The Health Circle is a group of highly purpose of the Health and Wellness event in experienced complementary health Streatham is to help individuals make their “For anyone looking to truly make practitioners working in south west London. New Year’s resolutions a reality. It will bring sustainable changes in not only their weight They are currently working in Clapham, together a selection of health and wellness management, but also looking for abundant Balham, Tooting, Battersea, Earlsfield, Putney, specialists who can help make that happen. energy, Nutripharm is the programme for Wandsworth and Streatham as well as Fulham, them. The results speak for themselves and Chelsea and Noting Hill Gate. They run their There will be a variety of therapists in you only have to do a web search on health practices and classes as individual attendance, including a hypnotherapist, an metabolic balance® to see not only the practitioners and come together to offer a acupuncturist, a chiropractor, a beauty celebrities, but normal people talking about cohesive and comprehensive service. They therapist, a healer and more. There will be the changes they've experienced that go offer a wide range of services including fitness specialists present, including a holistic beyond weight management.” Acupuncture, Hypnotherapy, Medical personal trainer, a dance teacher and a yoga Herbalism, Nutrition, Pilates, Personal Fitness, instructor. A money-saving expert will be So why does it work? Reflexology, Aromatherapy and Massage. They there to help with financial wellbeing. “Metabolic Balance® basically resets your have all worked here in south London for many hormone levels, in particular insulin. Insulin is years so you know you can rely on their Attendees will benefit from face to face the hormone that stops us accessing our fat expertise. consultations, rather than simply enquiring by stores, so when we eat the wrong foods, phone or looking up services online. They will levels increase and we struggle to lose How can The Health Circle also benefit from live demonstrations, special weight. By eating the right foods, at the right help me? offers and discounts on a range of services. times we keep insulin low, we help create The New Year is a fantastic time to ‘start anew’ They really are looking to kick-start 2016 in a another hormone called glucagon which as there’s a natural momentum and focus. It is positive way and can’t wait to allows the liver to burn fat for energy. This a great time to really look at your underlying help others do the same! Families will resets our metabolism, and when that health and wellbeing - the aches and pains that definitely visit! balances we start to feel and see the won’t go away, the constant exhaustion, the benefits.” colds and coughs that pass around the family, Marvel Coaching that bloated feeling you’ve been meaning to do something about. At Dunraven Secondary School, Meet the Health Circle at 94-98 Leigham Court Road, SW16 2QB. Mention this article when you call or email to the Streatham Wellness 10am-4pm. Free event. receive 20% off the normal price of the Event 2016 on 16th January, For information email programme. : nutripharm.co.uk meet the practitioners, New [email protected] or call ( 07738 275546 ( 07716 802738 Year discounts. : thehealthcircle.co.uk ( 07951 155869 [email protected]

The Junior Lawyers’ Club

Not just for Workshops for aspiring 8-11 year olds lawyers!

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

Raising confidence, mental agility and self esteem through fun activities

Venues in Kensington and Wimbledon www.juniorlawyersclub.co.uk [email protected]

6 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 New Year New You

Fresh start for your home Bored of cold, white, soulless interiors? We’ve come across a stunning interior design company offering cutting edge design and even modern frescoes for your home.

Gambedotti Design is an Italian design company which started in the 90s, from developing properties in stunning locations to finishing the interiors to specific high end designs. These restoration commissions required detailed knowledge of old techniques and new technologies that would allow them to replicate some classic designs. Slowly they put together an expert team of fine art craftsmen who were able to marry the old with the new and create some very special designs.

They quickly realised that some of these old techniques were time-consuming and very expensive, so they set about finding ways to create better designs using technology and modern techniques which enabled them to work more effectively without compromising the final result. From this were born modern frescoes where they use new technology and cutting edge design to create classical and modern images for the home or business. “Alberto and his team at Gambedotti Design listened to our ideas and in a very short time grasped our vision. Their professionalism, organisational abilities, practical suggestions and eye for detail, left us in little doubt that we were dealing with a company that knew their onions. Well Done” Haidee Colley-Banks, Balham SW12 The results are truly stunning and unique.

See : gambedottidesign.com to see their work. Contact in the UK is Chester Harriott ( 0786 3305 409.

Commission a genuine fresco for your house

Making ‘the move’ Returning to town after staying with family and friends in the country over the Christmas period leaves many of us driving back up the motorway with happy memories fresh in our minds of the wonderful fresh air, long country walks and congenial Christmas tipple at the village pub as we plough through the inevitable traffic back to city life.

So what holds you back from making the move? 1. Will my children get a school place? We all want our children to have the best education they can. There are many excellent, small village schools that provide them with a wonderful introduction to school life plus you get to meet other Marvel Coaching parents and instantly become part of the local community. 2. What about the commute? Our top tip to make the logistics of the daily commute more bearable is, when house hunting, to pinpoint where the smaller stations are that Fed up repeating the same resolutions year after year due are dotted around the commuter hotspot stations. Not only will your to lack of success? drive to the station be shorter, parking will be cheaper, if not free. Determined to make those plans a reality this time around? 3. I’ll be isolated There is life after London! The main commuter areas, in particular, Need help staying on track? are packed with families just like you who have made the move from London, and everybody’s keen to make new friends. Contact Marvel Coaching today and we can help you move forward. Jen Butcher & Maranda Jones run Property Potential Surrey, 07716 802738 [email protected] : propertypotentialsurrey.co.uk [email protected]

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 7 Families ‘Top 5’ this month Here are our Top 5 family activities to fill those long winter days in January and February.

Cracking Codes HMS Belfast The Queen's Walk SE1 2JH 1 : iwm.org.uk/visits/hms- belfast 9-10 January Intercept messages, map hazards on a sea chart and make up your own secret code in these truly immersive family workshops. Learn about the skills intelligence officers had to have as well as some of the dangers that surrounded HMS Belfast at sea. And after that, explore the 4 historic warship to discover what life was like on board for the crew at war and at Half Term Madness at sea from WW2 to 1963. It’s a great family day out – we love it! 11am-12.30pm and 2- 4pm. Free with admission fee. Southbank Centre Plus, don’t miss Darning and Yarning during half term, 13-21 February, and learn Belvedere Road SE1 8PX about the Royal Navy and life onboard as you take part in a cross stitch activity. : £15-£25, under 16s £15, family tickets £70 southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson 10-21 February Check out the Southbank this half term for a fun-packed week of talks, shows, workshops, activities, storytelling sessions and more. Start with The Minpins, Roald Dahl’s epic story presented with music by Sibelius, and Half Term Activities at the Museum of London end with a Q&A session with Judith Kerr of The Tiger Who Came To Teafame, talking about her new book 150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN Cleghorn Seal. There is something for everyone this half : museumoflondon.org.uk term! 13-21 February 2 Choose from We Could Be Heroes, My Family’s Museum Adventure, The Everyday Heroes of Postman’s Park, Hero Boogie and much, much more in this monumental range of activities at the wonderful Museum of London. The museum goes from strength to strength with their range of workshops, art drop-in sessions and dress-ups throughout February and beyond – it is one of my family’s favourites and well worth a look. Age ranges vary, most activities are free.

Family Workshop at the Foundling Museum 5 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ 3 : foundlingmuseum.org.uk Family weekend activities at 16 January The London Wetlands Centre Treasure Boxes Led by artist Isobel Manning, Queen Elizabeth, Barnes SW13 9WT explore the tokens left by : wwt.org.uk mothers when their babies Every Saturday and Sunday to 7 February were admitted to the Join in and get creative with a huge range of nature Foundling Hospital. Create activities and crafts for families. Spot the first signs of your own special token to spring and see which birds have returned from their share with a loved one, and winter ‘holiday’ in warmer climates, plus enjoy a pond make a keepsake treasure dipping session to see what mini-beasts are about. If you box in which to hide it. This can tear your little ones away from this, visit the is a gem of a workshop, and Discovery Centre or the adventure playground with its your little ones will love it. 11am-4pm. Why not return to the museum on 27 zip wires and climbing wall, get soaking wet in the water February for a family workshop: Peter Pan Shadow Puppet Theatre? Make your games or check out Pond Zone, their new high-tech own puppet theatre to take home and explore Peter Pan’s theatrical beginnings, while version of a village pond. It’s a fantastic day out for the helping Peter and the Lost Boys find their shadows. 10.30am, 1 and 2.30pm. kids. 9am-4pm, admission fees apply.

8 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Ofsted Registered We accept Childcare Vouchers

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 9 Parsons Green Prep School www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

School Open Days Call to book your place now

Hill House School SW1 Ravenstone Prep School SW7 Ibstock Place School SW15 4-13 Co-Ed Tours every weekday morning in term 4-11 Co-Ed Pre-prep 9/3 Prep 10/3 9-10.30am 3-18 Co-Ed Pre-Prep and Prep 3/2 9.30am time, 8.30am booking required booking required ( 7225 3131 booking required ( 8876 9991 / 8392 5803 ( 7584 1331 : ravenstoneschools.com : ibstockplaceschool.co.uk : hillhouseschool.co.uk St. Nicholas Preparatory School SW7 Streatham & Clapham High School SW16 St Matthew’s CE Primary School SW1 2-10 Co-Ed 20/1 9.30am 11-18 Girls Senior School 11/3 9.15am-11am 4-11 Co-Ed Tours Monday mornings 10am, call to book ( 7225 1277 : stnicholasprep.co.uk ( 8677 8400 : schs.gdst.net ( 7504 0500 : stmwschool.org.uk Redcliffe School SW10 Franciscan Primary School SW17 Streatham & Clapham Prep School SW2 3-11 Girls 3-8 Boys Tours Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-11 Co-Ed 13/1 9.15am and 10.45am 3-11 Girls Nursery and Prep School 1/3 9am-10.45am during term time 9.30am booking required ( 8672 3048 ( 8677 8400 : schs.gdst.net ( 7352 9247 : redcliffeschool.com : franciscan.ismyschool.net/franciscan/home

Gems Hampshire School SW3 Dolphin School SW11 The Roche School SW18 3-13 Co-Ed Personalised tours on request 4-11 Co-Ed Open Mornings most Thursdays 9.15- 2.5-11 Co-Ed 27/1 and 11/3 9.30-11am ( 7352 7077 : ths.westminster.sch.uk 10.30am by appointment ( 8877 0823 : therocheschool.co.uk ( 7924 3472 : dolphinschool.org.uk Parkgate House School SW4 St Anne’s C.E. Primary School SW18 2.5-11 Co-Ed 27/2 9am-12pm The Dominie SW11 4-11 Co-Ed 7/1 booking required ( 7350 2452 : parkgate-school.co.uk 6-11 Co-Ed Tours by appointment ( 8874 1863 ( 7720 8783 : thedominie.co.uk : st-annes.wandsworth.sch.uk Fulham Prep School SW6 4-13 Co-Ed Pre-Prep 15/3 9.30-11am, call to book a Shaftesbury Park Primary School SW11 St Michael’s C.E. Primary School SW18 time slot 7371 9911, Prep School tours by appointment Co-ed Nursery 12/1 9.30-11am ( 7228 3652 4-11 Co-Ed 11/1 booking required ( : only ( 7386 2444 : fulhamprep.co.uk 8874 7786 stmichaels.wandsworth.sch.uk Broomwood Hall Lower School SW12 Parsons Green Prep SW6 4-8 Co-Ed 2/3 9-10.30am : broomwood.co.uk The Study Prep School SW19 4-11 Co-Ed Midweek tours throughout January and 4-11 Girls 27/2, plus tours on Tuesday mornings by ( : February, Thursdays 9am London Steiner School SW12 appointment 8947 6969 thestudyprep.co.uk ( 7371 9009 : parsonsgreenprep.co.uk 3-14 Co-Ed 20/1 and 2/3 call ( 8772 3504 to book : waldorflondon.co.uk Wimbledon Common Prep SW19 The Moat School SW6 4-7 Boys 20/1 booking required ( : 11-16 Co-Ed 6/1 and 7/1 9am-11am and 2-4pm White House Prep School SW12 8946 1001 wimbledoncommonprep.co.uk ( 7610 9018 : moatschool.org.uk 4-11 Co-Ed Tours Tuesday mornings at 9.15am ( 8674 9514 book in advance Sydenham High School SE26 Falkner House SW7 : whitehouseschool.com 4-18 Girls High School 10/3 Pre-Prep and Prep ( 4-11 Girls Open days by appointment 16/3 9.30-11am 8557 7000 : ( 7373 4501 : falknerhouse.co.uk sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

“Specialists in helping students achieve excellence in education” “Leading provider of home and online private tuition”

www.teleiostutors.com [email protected] +44 (0) 20 8022 2995

10 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Education Schools News

A 125 year old history! Hornsby House Alex and Harry

New Academy for Nine year olds take Low tech for a bright Fulham over! future This January Langford Primary School in Two Year 5 pupils took over as science Did you know Waldorf education generally SW6, a local primary serving the community teachers at Hornsby House School, giving a discourages pupils' use of electronic media for 125 years, will become an Academy. With science lesson on the Big Bang to their such as television and computers? Use of a new dynamic Senior Leadership Team the classmates. Alex and Harry gave the rest of these is understood to conflict with young school has an inspiring new vision with a new their class a lesson on the theory of the origin children's developmental needs, media users curriculum, and has installed exceptionally of the universe - both boys have a passion for tend to be physically inactive, and these high expectations for the future, ensuring that science and impressive subject knowledge for media may hamper rather than exercise the behaviour is excellent. The school also offers their age, and chose the Big Bang as it was a imagination. a free full time nursery, so it is worth a look! topic they were fascinated about and was The stated purpose of this approach is to Why not come and see Langford first hand on related to the space theme they were already awaken the "physical, behavioural, emotional, any Wednesday morning this term? Call to working on. Miss Blunt, Head of Science, cognitive, social, and spiritual" aspects of each book your place now. Langford Primary said, ‘Alex and Harry have a special interest in individual, fostering creative as well as School, Gilstead Road, Fulham SW6 2LG Science and loved sharing their knowledge of analytic thinking. A 2005 review found that ( 7736 4045 : the Big Bang with their friends. I was Waldorf schools successfully develop delighted with how they responded to this "creative, social and other capabilities challenge and the commitment they showed. important in the holistic growth of the It was a very impressive achievement for two person." nine-year-olds.’ Hornsby House, is a co- The classroom is intended to resemble a educational day school for 4-11 year olds, home, and generally teachers attempt to Hornsby House School, Hearnville Road include as many simple and natural materials SW12 8RS, ( 8673 7573 as possible. The tools employed in a lesson : hornsbyhouse.org.uk plan's general activities are also usually sourced from simple, natural materials that are easily enhanced by a child's imagination. 9 Weir Rd, London SW12 0LT ( 8772 3504 : waldorflondon.co.uk

Children Learning to Succeed APOLOGIES In our October issue we made an error in connection with JAGS. JAGS is indeed James Maths, Allen's Girls’ School. Mrs Sally-Anne Huang was English, appointed as the new Head of JAGS 4-18 from 11+ Preparation September 2015. The Headteacher of JAPS, James Allen’s Preparatory Vicky Barnett School, is Miss Finola BA, MSc, PGCE Stack.

020 8876 2553 For admission enquiries www.firstclasslearning.co.uk call ( 8693 1181 or see : jags.org.uk

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 11 Education Are we over-testing our children?

By Carey Ann Dodah

The UK’s education system has traditionally been far less test-centric than its counterparts in countries such as the USA, where last year saw children actively boycotting and protesting against the test-culture. In the USA, children are tested annually and these tests dictate whether they progress into the next year or are held back. Children feel a lot of pressure to do well. Parents want them to do well, but feel simultaneously concerned and disappointed at the way in which creative and life-skills can be side lined in their children’s academic lives.

In the UK, the move towards the new curriculum and introduction of new assessments such as the the Baseline Assessment tests, Phonics Screening check, and KS2 SATS including the new SPAG test, are disturbing many parents, who are concerned that too much emphasis is being placed on teaching children to pass tests.

The baseline test has received a lot of criticism. difficulty. Three Written Maths Tests and a So what exactly are these However, if delivered in the right way, a child will Mental Maths Test not be aware of being assessed and the results will tests? provide valuable data that teachers can use to The new KS2 SATS will initially see pupils and The Baseline Test track a child’s progress. Looking at the rate of schools judged on test results, as there is no 1:1 formal test that will take place within a few progress each child is making is really positive, as historical data to evaluate progress for each weeks of a child starting school. It focusses on a every child is different and learns at a different individual pupil. So the tests will be tough and child’s literacy and numeracy to generate a pace. The test will enable teachers to be those sitting them in May 2016 are going to be ‘baseline’ against which to measure progress to recognised for the difference they are making to challenged with material that would previously Key Stage One and Two. each individual pupil, rather than getting a whole have been expected of children a year or two cohort to one level. older. With this amount of extra material to learn it’s natural that schools will feel the need The Phonics Screening Check to tailor their focus to the test. Taken by pupils in Year 1, this test is designed to Tuesday confirm whether pupils have learnt phonic The new curriculum sets out to provide a Tutors decoding to an appropriate standard. It will creative, collaborative experience for children in identify pupils who need extra help to improve both maths and English but the KS2 SATS tests • We coach children for state and their decoding skills. The check consists of 20 real focus on the mechanics of maths and English independent school and entry tests: words and 20 pseudo-words that a pupil reads and don’t include any creative problem solving activities in maths or any opportunities for VR, NVR, English, Maths and interview aloud to the teacher. Pupils must also take the children to demonstrate their skills in creative preparation. check in Year 2 if they didn’t meet the required writing. The danger here is that the narrowness • We are also happy to offer Maths and standard in Year 1 or haven’t taken it before. of the tests could flow into a narrow focus of English support for children in school, learning during lessons. and Home Education. KS2 SATS • NEW- a dedicated Maths National Curriculum tests which are taken by Despite the increase in testing children in the tutor up to A Level available for pupils at age 11 at the end of Key Stage 2. Tests UK, I remain positive that a test-culture like that home-visits in central London include: of the USA will be avoided. It’s vital that the UK Tuesday Tutors has placed many children in education system maintains a balance between top state and private schools. It is advisable The SPAG Test creating a love of learning in children and to contact us early, as high demand may An English grammar, punctuation and spelling nurturing their creative talents and passions, mean that your child will be placed test which assesses a child’s English skills in four whilst simultaneously teaching them in a way on our waiting list. key areas: spelling, punctuation, grammar, and that enables them to pass tests. The majority of Experienced tutors welcome vocabulary. English Reading Test based on teachers feel similarly and we need to trust in reading comprehension of three texts, with a Tel: 020 7735 8268 07906 312541 the intention they have to preserve this balance total of 35 to 40 questions of increasing [email protected] for our children. tuesdaytutors.com Carey Ann Dodah is the Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning, with centres in Brixton, East Sheen, Fulham, Wandsworth and Wimbledon.

12 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Jan/Feb 2016 ® 13 14 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Jan/Feb 2016 ® 15 16 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 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 January 2016 Spring term Adult&Baby swimming course. For new customers only. [email protected] 07902 782675

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 17 Clubs and classes news

Made for Stage drama school Made For Stage workshops are designed to inject a sense of confidence, raise self esteem, install morality, and develop communication skills through the art of performance. They have developed a series of performing arts workshops that explore children’s creativity whilst stimulating strong communication skills, improved concentration and great physical fitness. If you’re a parent who likes to see results while your children thoroughly enjoy themselves, Made for Stage is the place for you! Prepare to be amazed beyond all expectations. Classes take place on Thursdays from 5pm-6pm for children aged 5-14 @ The Lost Theatre, SW8 2JU : MadeForStage.co.uk [email protected] ( 07886 644887 Develop your child’s imagination through dance This New Year, take a look at the Kensington Ballet School for your little twinkle toes. The Free trial and free school caters to children aged 18 months to 9 years in a fun but structured environment, with first lesson parents encouraged to participate in the toddler classes. Plus, there is a strong emphasis on theatrical performance, with exercises and storytelling helping to stimulate imagination and Local favourite Funky Monkey Keyboard develop rhythm. Or why not book your next children’s birthday party with KBS and let them classes launch a new look this month, and are take your little ones on a magical journey of music and movement, with party games, drama and celebrating by offering a free trial and free more. Classes take place across SW London, find out more at first lesson throughout the month of January. : kensingtonballet.com or call ( 07957 650042. These classes keep going from strength to strength, with their group based electronic keyboard lessons a perfect introduction for 4- 11 year olds. Plus, their term classes and Sew Pretty holiday courses are inventive, creative, Sew Pretty is a small, very friendly and educational and present music making in such independently owned workshop set in a a way that children just keep wanting to relaxed garden studio in Wimbledon, come back for more! Classes take place South West London ran by Katya. She across South and South West London, visit : began stitching dresses for her dolls using funkymonkey.info for more details, email her mum’s sewing machine when she Ali at [email protected] or call ( was just eight years old. Her passion has 0800 107 7949. continued over the years and after graduating as Fashion Designer she set up her own label called ‘Crazy Cow’. Now a mother of two, she has decided to share her passion and inspire others, both young and old, to get creative. For little ones, Katya runs craft birthday parties, an after-school sewing club and her ever- popular sewing camps during half terms and summer holidays. Meanwhile, for mums, Katya puts on short workshops, sewing classes and courses. She can also organise sessions for hen parties, girls’ get-togethers and corporate craft events Email [email protected] or check out : sewpretty.me.uk for a comprehensive list of classes, dates and availability, and to book online.

18 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Clubs and classes news

Congratulations to Funky Moves Families best-loved and funkiest street dance company, Funky Moves have won a national award for Best School Age Dance Class in the UK. While celebrating their 10th year of providing cool and current dance activities for kids of all ages in SW London, this accolade really is the cherry on the cake. ‘It feels so Free Upbeat trial wonderful to be noticed for our original dance service,’ said Creative Don’t miss the free trial day this January at Director, Holly Easterbrook. ‘We Upbeat Music. Sign up now for a free have always prided ourselves on moving with the current trends, and this has led us to many workshop on 9 January at Thomas's Academy, new and exciting ventures over the years, including Holiday Courses, Big Screen Boogie, Festival New King’s Road, Parsons Green SW6. Ages Of Funk and Star Wars Parties. Plus there has always been the constant and unfading popularity 4-7 takes place at 10-11.30am, with ages 8-15 and passion for our funky street dance classes.’ Visit them at : funkymovesdance.com or call at 11.30am-1.15pm. Get set for some ( 07810 431101 and see how you could join one of the UK’s best dance classes. singing, dancing, guitars, drums, performance, song writing, sound production and much more! Call ( 07816 901396 or go to : upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk Fun French lessons Les Petits Choux has been running after- Little Voices are winners! school French classes for beginners and bilingual children in Southfields since Little Voices drama classes are thrilled to September 2014. Last term they added a pre- announce that they have won a national award school class for ages 3-5years on Friday for Best School Aged Music Activity, through afternoons at 4pm and a drop-in French Kallikids. A true testament to their fabulous playgroup for mums and little ones on tutors and pupils, the award is well deserved by Mondays at 9.30am. All classes are held at St these much-loved classes that nuture talent at Michael’s church. The children have fun the same time as building confidence. Based in learning French through songs, stories, Putney, Fulham, Richmond and Wandsworth, puppets and activities. Little Voices also run wonderful holiday camps – they had a great experience with a [email protected] ( 07980 266817 Frozen/Tangled mash up this winter! ( 07823 384992, : littlevoices.org.uk : espetitschoux.org.uk

Calling all Prima Donnas Have you come across G64 at Putney Arts Theatre yet? If you think you have a budding Judi Dench or Meryl Streep on your hands, French is a winner take a look at this resident theatre group for Expansion for Allsorts Et Patati Patata Club, famous for their young people which aims to develop Saturday French school, has been shortlisted creativity and confidence in a safe and fun The popular drama classes from Allsorts are for a Brilliant Business Award Hammersmith environment, whilst giving children exciting expanding this term, with classes at More and Fulham. Even more reason for your theatrical experiences, great memories and an House School, 22 – 24 Pont Street SW1 on children to learn French with these winning abundance of confidence and skills to take out Fridays 4–5pm for ages 4-6, and 5–7pm for language classes, setting your little ones on into the world! With shows as diverse as ages 7–11 and 11–14. Plus, now they are the fast track to becoming bilingual. Plus, try Macbeth and Pride and Prejudice, plus holiday offering Saturday classes at Notting Hill Prep out their holiday day camps, with French and half term projects for ages 4 upwards, School, Lancaster Road W11 at 10–11am for classes, workshops, French dancing and this is a drama group not to be missed. Find ages 4–6, and 11am–1pm for ages 7–11. To cooking for ages 3-10. Bravo les enfants! St out more at www.g64.org.uk, book a free trial this January call Andrew’s church, Fulham SW6, : putneyartstheatre.org.uk ( 8969 3249 or visit : allsortsdrama.com ( 07966 893674, : etpatatipatata.com

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 19 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

20 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Le petit conservatoire Mes ateliers artistiques tout en français! For kids aged 3 to 10! A bientôt www.lepetitconservatoire.co.uk

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

Plus holiday workshops, birthday parties & Young Songwriter competition. Perfect outlet for creative & musical kids, and we develop vital skills for achieving at school & beyond. [email protected] 07710 023743 www.songacademy.co.uk

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 21 Dance yourself happy Why dancing is good for us!

Need an instant boost? Dance is like laughter, you cannot not feel better after you’ve danced. Dance can lift you emotionally and spiritually as much as physically. You can dance your way through disappointment or dark thoughts. Dance can help take you through a process of healing. Dance can make you happy. Everyone can dance and there is a dance for everyone. Don’t worry if you have two left feet and the ungainliness of a wildebeest. The point is to have FUN! Dance for the fun of it Isn’t it utterly sad that we don’t dance any more? Do you wish you knew a place where you could turn up and dance? If you love music and dancing, then try Dance Yourself Fit. It’s a really fun evening, and without even realising you are doing a workout too! © Anetlanda “I soon found myself lost in the music, giggling my way through the class. I really enjoyed Ann's clear instructions, Dance as if no-one is watching and her guidance through my body from In the end, however, dancing does not have to be about fake head to toe using all my tan and sparkly make-up. It doesn’t even have to be muscles groups.” “Felt something you do in a class or have any talent at. So kick off like a night out but was your shoes, put the music on and dance at home. still home by 8.30, First thing in the morning is great, before your shower: put feeling toned and high the music on and have 5 liberating minutes of having fun! Sing with endorphins.” and shout, get set for your day, banish grey moods and Ann Goodsell runs depressive thoughts. Get the children involved, dance around classes at the Exhibit in your bowl of cereal, dance while preparing tea in your kitchen Balham 7.15-8.15pm or have a dance session to reduce TV time. : danceyourselffit.co.uk © Funky Moves © Funky Dance yourself happy Parents have been commenting for years how they wish they had something like Funky Moves when they were young, well they are now being offered the next best thing: a chance to Get Fit With Funky Moves in their own weekly Adult Street Dance Class … but this time, no kids are allowed! Unlike other dance studios in London, there is no pressure to nail the routine first time. It is about having fun with friends and growing in confidence, stamina and technique each week, whilst learning super cool routines to current chart hits. Their teachers are all amazing dancers who are still working in the industry, sparkly, fun, talented and lovely. Use it as a great way to shed a few extra Christmas calories or a chance to have a giggle with friends and let your weekly frustrations out. You’re bound to come out with a huge grin on your face! All ages and abilities thoroughly welcome. Tuesday Mornings 9.30am-10.30am. Dance Studio, Tooting Bec Athletics Track. £8 drop in or £80 for 12 week booking. Contact [email protected] today to reserve your place. : funkymovesdance.com/adults © Funky Moves © Funky

22 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Dance yourself happy

Going all Strictly Dance to feel better But for those inconsolable with the end of 5Rhythms full moon dance for women is a the recent Strictly Come Dancing series, the free style, dynamic practice to both workout and only choice is ballroom and there are classes meditate in the same breath. Dance can help us across Southwest London. Try Ceroc, a bring greater peace to ourselves and therefore modern jive fusion of salsa, ballroom, hip- our environment. We love the session in St Peters hop, tango and jive : ceroclondon.com in Church, near Vauxhall, which is women only. The Putney, Balham, Kensington, Victoria or go five rhythms are flowing, staccato, chaos, lyrical for the more traditional forms of ballroom. and stillness. They come together to create the You can, for example, find these at the Wave, a movement meditation practice. Rather Dance Lab in Putney than having steps to follow, each rhythm is a : thedancelabputney.com They teach from different energy field in which you find your own absolute beginners with social evenings too. expression and choreography, thereby stretching your imagination as well as your body. Practicing Tr u e Strictly addicts can head to Karen them helps us become attuned to the underlying Hardy Studios in Fulham’s Imperial Wharf. Book a complimentary 25-minute private patterns in our everyday existence. In lay term it lesson with a dance professional and you may ultimately find yourself having the complete basically means you just do what you feel in the Strictly experience including professional partner and all the trappings at a live Karen moment and that is just perfect. Hardy Showcase. They teach the Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Quickstep, Cha 310 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall SE11 5HY Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, Jive, Argentine Tango and Salsa – phew! : bodysong.co.uk : fullmoondance.co.uk : karenhardystudios.com

Other classes you could investigate: The Bedford Pub in Balham runs a good number of classes: from Beginners Lindy hop class (Swing, Jitterbug, Jive), jazz, Salsa, Argentine tango, and social dancing. Absolute beginners welcome.

What about Belly dance? : fleurestelle.com based in South Kensington is London’s largest belly dance school. Build your self-esteem, increase your fitness levels and explore your feminine side.

Zumba classes are widely available, try your local church hall or leisure centre.

And yes, Pole dancing is an option too! Try : spunpoledance.co.uk in Brixton. As well as improving coordination, posture, building flexibility and muscle tone, pole dancing can be an amazing confidence builder and tool to help gain and develop a positive body image. From incredibly simple yet graceful dance routines and movements to complex moves requiring strength, stamina and confidence.

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 23 Tr a v e l Should you share a holiday with another family?

By Sally J Hall

It seems like a great idea when you and a friend are daydreaming about your next holiday and it turns out you both want to hire a cottage in Cornwall. If you want to go away with both your families and share the costs of the holiday, read our tips to make this a holiday to remember – not a nightmare.

A little knowledge is a dangerous thing… How well do you know the other family? Are there areas of their life you find difficult to cope with? If you’re a neat freak and they are the kind to ignore mould on the milk bottle – or the other way around – you’re probably not going to get along with each others’ standards of housekeeping. Do you know You can’t go wrong with choosing a property in Urbino, Italy for your summer holiday. what their politics are? Very importantly do Gambedotti.com offer a great choice of superb properties in the lovely countryside. your children get along? Check out their wellness weekends, they sound amazing!

All good friends A room of one’s own So while there may be some things to consider before you embark on a holiday with Your partners also need to get on and you Make sure there’s room for you all to have friends, there are many advantages. You can need to be friends as a foursome. The grown- some personal space. Even the best of friends afford somewhere much nicer than you might ups need to be united if there are disputes can end up getting on each others’ nerves at otherwise have done, you can share chores between the children. Spend a day together times. Letting the kids sleep in the same room and babysitting and you can forge lifelong in the run-up to the holiday and have the may backfire too, as they will be so excited friendships between both the adults and the children on a sleep-over to iron out problems that they may not get to sleep before the children. With a little forethought, this will before you go. small hours. truly be a holiday to remember! Set the rules Make some ground rules before you go. Set a budget and decide how you are going to share the price of the house and shopping once you are away. It’s best to share everything equally (easy if your families are the same size, otherwise work it out proportionately). Talk this all through before you go, as the last thing you want is an argument at the supemarket check-out! Doing the housework The chores will also have to be shared equally, so that nobody has to do all the cooking or all the washing up. Take it in turns and eat out a couple of times so that you all get a break. Do you prefer winter or summer in the Alps… or both? Francesca, Paul and their three children live Us-time in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people. Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular As there are other grown-ups with you, this guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer holidays for either families, couples or mixed groups in would be an ideal opportunity to have some relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities, with unrivalled in-house childcare facilities. time alone with your partner. Take it in turns For many returning guests Chilly Powder is considered a real home from home. to look after all the children, so that each www.chillypowder.com couple has some personal space.

24 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016

Health and well-being How art therapy can help children

Is your child suffering from anxiety, bereavement, a family breakdown or has difficulties at school? Art therapy may be able to help. Art-making and artistic self-expression can help children reduce stress, increase their self-esteem and manage their behaviour. This will also give them a much better chance in life if their issues get sorted early.

We asked Anna Storch HCPC, BAAT, to explain: what is involved

Q: What issues can Art Therapy help with? Q: What change do you see in the children you Art therapy can help with many different emotional and behavioural work with? difficulties. One of the most common problems I help with is children It’s wonderful to see the children I work with become empowered and struggling with divorce. Anger, sadness or even guilt are all common better at dealing with their emotions. I try to offer them tools to deal responses, and this can present in different ways from pushing with challenges instead of acting out. I want the clients I work with to boundaries to temper tantrums. Children can sometimes feel unable to rediscover how to be happy as a family. talk to their parents, while parents can feel at a loss with how to reach out whilst maintaining boundaries around behaviour. Children’s Therapies is an Q: What does Art Therapy involve? independent child therapy practice In my sessions I encourage the child to engage with the art materials on based in Wandsworth. It is a offer, as a way to explore their experiences. I often see children who’ve multidisciplinary, holistic practice. been bottling up their feelings, and being able to talk about it is a huge Their services include speech and relief. Sessions are usually led by the child. They might start drawing a language therapy, child psychology, picture of something that upset them. I’ll encourage them to open up occupational therapy, family support, more; we might re-enact the scenario and try different outcomes. yoga therapy, relax Kids classes as Children sometimes write letters to give to their parents if they feel well as training for parents and comfortable. schools. ( 8673 7930 : childrenstherapies.co.uk

26 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Nursery Special Feature What you need to know when choosing a nursery or playgroup

Many mums return to work after their maternity leave finishes and choose to leave their baby in a nursery. Even if you are a stay-at- home mum or dad, it’s likely that when your child is between the ages of two and three years old you will want her to start at a playgroup or nursery school – for both her benefit and yours. But how do you choose the right nursery for your baby?

You can get a list of local nurseries and playgroups from your local council, from your health visitor, local library, GP surgery or search familiessouthwest.co.uk Speak with other mums about the nursery or playgroup you are most interested in, and go along and spend a morning at each group, together with your child. Gut instinct can be invaluable in these situations. Beau Peeps' Boutique Nursery

10 things to consider when choosing a The ideal atmosphere at a nursery group should be busy and buzzing, but never out of control. Noisy children racing around or charging up nursery: and down on bikes and cars shows a clear lack of organisation. 1. Are you and your child made to feel welcome and introduced to the Another point to consider is whether boys and girls at the nursery are nursery staff, helpers and perhaps to other children? Are you treated equally. Do boys get encouraged to do quiet, creative activities allowed to stay and watch at a time to suit you – not them? or do they run about in gangs and spend a lot of time on sit-on cars and 2. Check out the space itself. The room may be a bleak church hall but toys? Are girls encouraged to do physical play and large toy activities? have the staff made it look lively and interesting? Do boys and girls play together? Both boys and girls need physical, 3. Does the nursery seem too crowded? Numbers are controlled by energetic play, construction play and quiet creative periods with adult local authority regulations, and insurance policies, but some attention. playgroups squeeze in extra children. Try to visit a group while a singing or story time session is going on. 4. Is there somewhere for outdoors play on fine days? Are there books Singing sessions should always be varied and fun with lots of action in a quiet corner where children can go and sit? Is there an rhymes and percussion and have all the children enthusiastically joining interactive area, such as a nature table? in. Story time should also be something the children particularly enjoy. 5. Check out the toys, equipment and art materials on offer. Are the The story teller should be able to hold the children’s attention. Story same toys put out in the same area every day? (this is why it’s a time should not be used as an opportunity for helpers to take the good idea to visit more than once on random, different days) children to the toilet or tidy up.

6. Are there varied activities on offer (painting, sandpits, water play If you like a particular nursery or playgroup, but feel they fall down in areas, Wendy house, play dough, building bricks, puzzles, a dressing one or two areas, then speak with the supervisor. They may welcome up box). Are these accessible all the time? your suggestions and be able to make changes to suit you and your 7. Do the children look excited and interested in the toys available? child. If they don’t, then move on and find one that’s more in line with your requirements. 8. Does the climbing equipment look well-maintained and is there a soft landing area? 9. What about the staff? Are they listening and talking to the children? Are they calmly in control? Do they seem to be caring with the children? Do they notice aggressive or painfully shy children and get them to join in constructively? Do they spend more time chatting Emma’s Diary is the UK’s most trusted and influential pregnancy and baby with each other than with the children? channel. Working in partnership with The Royal College of General 10.Talk to the staff to find out their views on discipline, dealing with Practitioners (RCGP) for more than 23 years, they provide parents-to-be anxious children and free and structured play to see if their ideas and new parents with the very best medical and practical information. : are the same as yours. emmasdiary.co.uk

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 27 Nursery Special Feature The power of play

By Sue Morro, Manager Soho Family Centre Nursery and Maryanne McGregor, Deputy Manager at Townmead Community Nursery (Fulham), LEYF.

“For babies and young children, play is at the very heart of how they learn and develop. From practicing new sounds, to developing gross motor skills, play is fundamental in developing the basic skills that will support children’s literacy, numeracy and understanding of the world later on. At the London Early Years Foundation, all 36 of our London nurseries have a child-centred approach that puts play at the heart of children’s learning.

Some of the key benefits of play: Language and communication Creativity and problem solving Watching and listening to those around them is key to children’s language development. Play involving storytelling, role play and Giving children the freedom to play means giving them the freedom to describing (e.g. different textures) are the perfect platforms to teach make their own choices, allowing for imagination, exploration, and encourage language, with children eager to copy what they are discovery and expression. It is a natural way for them to piece together seeing and hearing. the world around them and in doing so they will develop their creative thinking and problem solving abilities. At LEYF nurseries, we have created our own unique research-based curriculum that supports children’s natural curiosity and confidence, so they leave nursery with a life-long enthusiasm for learning. The proven Social interaction success of play has helped to influence many areas of our approach, Playing with other children as well as adults helps children to develop including: an understanding both of themselves and others. Learning and • Our clean, uncluttered and natural environments, using the nursery practicing things like taking turns, sharing and considering the feelings of space both indoors and out to create exciting opportunities for play. others as they play supports emotional development and social skills. It • Embracing the role that our practitioners play in building loving also helps to prepare them to deal with compromise, conflict and relationships between staff, children and parents. Children need to working with others as adults. feel valued, safe and loved. Being comfortable in their surroundings is key to encouraging them to play and express themselves. • Our home learning programme provides parents with ideas and Physical development resources to play with their children at home, extending and When children play they are continuously practicing and developing enriching their nursery experience. their gross and fine motor skills, helping to build the physical skills • We have a multigenerational approach allowing the children to they’ll need for life. In addition to this, play is the perfect practice in experience the community first hand and connecting all our integrating these large and fine muscle movements, which will later help nurseries with their local community. These real-life experiences go with writing and also language. alongside the children’s play to help them in understanding the world around them. Nurseries in Balham, Brixton, Earls’ Court, Fulham, Stockwell, Westminster and beyond : leyf.org.uk To iPad or not to iPad We’ve all been there, you’re in a restaurant with friends, trying to catch up about life, what’s going on at work, at home, with the children, and one of the little ones starts playing up. Or you’re on a flight and the person behind you is fed up because your children will not be quiet and sit still. So you instinctively reach into your bag and out comes the iPad/iPhone, and suddenly, you have peace and quiet again and a chance for grown up time or a chance to relax.

Putting the ipad on airplane mode and sticking to the recommended 20 minutes at a time should be enough and there are some brilliant apps today for all age groups that can help and support their early learning education. This means that instead of just watching something, they are actively engaged and learning through play with games involving maths, phonics or tracing, rather than just digesting a TV programme or film.

At SMART Preschools we support our curriculum with scheduled and monitored IT sessions, where the children learn with an iPad, as this is the nature of today’s world.

Smart Preschool’s top five apps support learning: Reading: Read with Biff, Chip & Kipper Speech and language: Splingo Phonics, writing numbers/letters, fine Keeping them engaged and learning motor skills: Hairy Letters, Dexteria Maths: Shapes, Monkey Math School We still don’t know all the effects of these fast paced images and time spent exposed to WIFI enabled gadgets on the developing brains of our young children and perhaps we should proceed with caution as to how 48 Leopold Rd, London SW19 7JD ( 8240 1472 much time they get in front of the screens, until we know more. : smartpreschool.co.uk

28 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Nursery Special Feature Creating future leaders

Think ‘creativity’ and one could be easily fooled into believing that digging out the paint pots and getting crafty with glue is just for fun, it’s far from it—it’s a serious business, especially for preschoolers.

At Beau Peep’s boutique nursery in Fulham, creativity is at its core. From the design and fit- out of this new space—with its inviting, colourful illustrations in the window, interactive magnetic walls and even an indoor tree house made from a real tree—to the warm and open-minded staff, every effort has been made to create a safe and stimulating environment where children can develop a sense of curiosity and allow their imaginations to run free.

Nursery Manager, Siobhan McGovern, feels passionately about the lifelong benefits creative education can offer and believes it to be fundamental to children’s development. So much so that Pearson, the world’s leading education and awarding body, chose to focus on Beau Peep’s as a prime example of where a creative environment is key to the day-to-day learning.

Creativity supports language and literacy development, it promotes physical development (both gross and fine motor skills) and cognitive skills such as mathematics and divergent thinking - the key to problem solving.

Don’t rush over and help and dressing-up outfits are key to role play so children can create a world of their own, where anything is possible. Siobhan tells us “when a child can’t figure something out, as an adult our initial instinct is to rush over and help, but when they are left a moment Siobhan summarises: “When people hear the word ‘creativity’, they think longer (under our watchful eye of course), they often make a decision and of artistic pursuits. When I hear it, I think of the future architect - a child solve the problem themselves, using that creative part of their brain – who meticulously built a small city from Lego - or the future engineer, who honing skills they will need to draw upon time and time again as they face saw something was broken and fixed it. I think of future scientists, doctors, the challenges life throws at them.” teachers and leaders, I think of a world of possibilities that will open up to There are many ways in which nursery school can help facilitate this them - and it all starts here, at nursery.” creative learning. At Beau Peep’s children are introduced to new Beau Peep’s was also recently selected as one of a handful of UK materials, words, stories, inspiring displays, movement, music, cookery businesses helping job-seekers gain insight into career options, including and more, giving them the opportunity for sensory development, a traineeship in Health and Social Care. exploration and discovery. Children are actively encouraged to use the well-stocked, open art area when and how they like. The library corner 679A Fulham Road, London, SW6 5PZ, ( 3609 5222 provides inspiration for children to explore their own ideas, while toys : beaupeeps.co.uk

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 29 Nursery Special Feature Local nursery news and information First nursery in London to receive food award Streatham nursery Cavendish Lodge has won the Award for Excellence from the Children’s Food Trust – the very first nursery in London to receive this award. This rubber-stamps the fact that the food the nursery serves, the ingredients they use and the activities they organise around food, growing and nutrition are all top quality. Cavendish Lodge, which already has Ofsted Outstanding status, loves food and eating, and firmly believes that it is really important - just like a car engine, our bodies need good fuel if they are to work properly. Now, the good news is that they have had their commitment to healthy food officially recognised. Rob Rees MBE, professional chef and Chair of the Children’s Food Trust, said: “When parents are choosing a nursery, they always want to know what the food’s like and that the kids will be getting great food and be encouraged to eat well. This award is a clear sign that children Baby Room nursery and nanny agency are getting a healthy start. Congratulations to the whole team, we’re Alison started the first Baby Room nursery on Webbs Road in 2005 delighted to welcome you as the first nursery award winner in London.” when she returned to work in the London Insurance market and could ( not find appropriate care for her daughter - at that time there were no 52 Lewin Road, Streatham Common SW16 6JT, 8835 8500 : : day care nurseries between the Commons! Ten years later there are cavendishlodgenursery.co.uk childrensfoodtrust.org.uk four successful Baby Room nurseries on Webbs Rd, Lavender Hill, in Clapham Old Town and Balham, in addition to the new nanny agency on Northcote Road and many 100's of local children have used their service and very happily gone on to attend local schools.

( 7627 2106 : babyroom.co.uk

Little Starlings into fifth year Lisa Sammut tells us: “It's always so captivating to watch our toddlers arrive as shy, curious individuals and then leave us as happy, contended, carefree children ready to embark on the next chapter of their education. We strive to create a nurturing, cosy and safe environment for little ones who are often being left without parents for the first time.” If you think your little one would enjoy a fun filled morning doing arts, crafts, singing and story time then Little Starlings could be just what you are looking for.

St James’ Centre Ouseley Road SW12 8EW ( 07803 324 821 : little-starlings.co.uk Little Starlings

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

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

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

Contact: Annabel Dixon [email protected] www.345 nurseryschool.co.uk 020 8870 8441 Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity Road, London SW18 3NH

30 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Nursery Special Feature

Childcare solutions for busy parents The Playroom in Wandsworth is a multi service Childcare Provider. They offer a Preschool, a drop in crèche, a breakfast and after school club, birthday parties plus a holiday club; it is open from 7.30 - 19.30pm, 7 days a week!

Preschoolers can join The Playroom from the age of 2 to 5 years, parents can choose short and long sessions. For parents that have varied working hours, they offer a crèche service for children of all ages. They take last minute bookings so don't worry if you have a sudden childcare emergency or the nanny has called in sick.

Most parents struggle to find a solution for their children before and after school (or nursery) the Playroom is here to help. They offer a full wrap around service and their doors open at 7.30am which suits city commuters and school teachers. They’ll give your children a healthy and Sinclair House nutritious breakfast and be safely escorted to school.

Developing science curiosity It can be really difficult to find a childcare solution for after school which Sinclair House Parents’ Association recently raised funds to invest is term time only. The Playroom offers an after school service for £15 a in science-based Early Years resources for the Nursery garden. session and it includes a drink, snack, light dinner and dessert. They New outdoor materials include a “Mini-Beast Mansion” and an “Insect collect your child from school and they come back to The Playroom to Conservation Study Centre,” which provide interactive habitats for have fun with games, arts and crafts and more. insects and pollinators. These help develop pupils’ scientific curiosity Although the session finishes at 6pm, they are open until 7.30pm and you about the natural world around them, facilitate experience-based can extend the session anytime you need to. If you need extra cover insight into ecological patterns, and encourage childrens’ understanding during the holidays the Playroom offers a holiday club for children of all of cycles of growth and change in their surrounding environment. ages. Now that is super useful for busy parents!

Lower Nursery: 196 Munster Road, London SW6 6AU 317 Garratt Lane, Earlsfield SW18 4DX ( 3560 7186 Upper Nursery: 159 Munster Road, London SW6 6DA : theplay-room.co.uk ( 7736 9365 : sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

Free nursery places Have you applied for a nursery place in a school? The deadline is 12 February this year and in advance Wandsworth Council has produced a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a nursery place for your child. Choosing Nursery Education in Wandsworth includes details of where you can find free nursery places, tips on how to recognise good quality nursery provision and a guide to how to apply. All children are entitled to a free, good quality part-time nursery place from the September, January or April following their third birthday, plus two-year-olds may also be eligible for up to 15 hours of free early education for 38 weeks of the year.

For more information call ( 8871 7899 or email [email protected] : wandsworth.gov.uk/fis/ : wandsworth2yearold.org.uk If you live in a different borough do check as deadlines may vary. The Playroom

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 The White House nurseries (the only ones in SW12) Norwood Grove, Copgate Path • Ballet, Football, French and Music classes • Morning, afternoon and full day sessions Off Gibson Hill SW16 3EX (term time only) • Summer Clubs Norwood Grove Pre-School Nightingale 1 Montessori: St Luke's Church Hall, Dedicated friendly staff required 194 Ramsden Rd, SW12 8RQ Preferably NVQ Level II or III Nightingale 2 Montessori: St Stephen's Church To work in a lovely Grade II listed Hall, 35 Weir Rd, SW12 0NU Contact: [email protected] building and beautiful surroundings Nightingale 1 Montessori 07958 567210 Nightingale 2 Montessori 07930 401769 Please contact Joan for further information www.nightingalemontessori.co.uk 020 8670 8567 Register early to avoid disappointment. [email protected]

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 31 Nursery Special Feature

From music class to When the opportunity arose for the nursery, John felt it was a perfect progression for his nursery current music activities. “Starting the nursery seems the natural way to carry on the music Last year saw the opening of a brand education that starts in Fruity Tunes. We new pre-school in Clapham South already do a weekly music curriculum in many called the Fruity Tree Nursery, local nurseries but at the Fruity Tree we can do which alongside an EYFS curriculum, these activities daily, meaning progression is specialises in Early Years Music quick! We want children to learn music so it education. become as innate as their literacy and numeracy. There are many cross curricular Its founder is John Cronin, who many benefits to our music, with motor skills, will know from his Fruity Tunes music leadership and confidence all being developed” sessions in Battersea. It’s been a long journey for John who began Fruity Fruity after school care service launched Tunes 10 years ago near Battersea Park, when he was a stay at home Moving forward, there is another project about Dad for his baby daughter. to start in the New Year, as the Fruity team is “It was quite difficult giving up work, as I’m a very active person, but I starting an after school care service at Sacred used the time as an opportunity to start a small business, which Heart Primary School called Fruity Club, it sounds like another big dovetailed in with my daughter’s routine and my passion for music” challenge. How does John feel about this? “It’s all very exciting and said John. Since then, Fruity Tunes has expanded with sessions all over very busy, but 10 years on, I still realise that parenthood is where this Wandsworth, and provides music education for many nurseries and all began, so as always, I am very thankful for my lovely daughter Leah” schools in the area. John has also turned his hand to choir directorship, winning several awards with the Sacred Heart primary school choir. The Fruity Tree Nursery is open from 8:45am-12pm, during term time. For more information log onto : fruitytree.co.uk or email [email protected]

News from The Park Gardens Learning about sustainable living Many Wandsworth parents have heard about the Ofsted Outstanding This year at Nightingale 2 Montessori Nursery they have been rated nursery The Park Gardens, located alongside leafy King learning about sustainable living and the food cycle. The children have George’s Park. But do you know that this well-established nursery has been growing vegetables, fruit and herbs, using them for snacks and in recently been fully refurbished and is now offering full daycare as well cooking activities and composting the leftovers. The children have also as morning and afternoon daycare sessions for 2-5 year olds? The Park shown lots of enthusiasm in repurposing, reusing and up-cycling Gardens and its sister nursery The Gardens in nearby Southfields (also materials. The children have enjoyed the many plays and shows held rated Outstanding by Ofsted) are owned by Sarah Bokaie. at the nursery and adventure-driven drama classes by Theatrebugs Come and visit the ‘new’ Park Gardens for yourself have been introduced.

( 8875 1277: gardenschildcare.co.uk 35 Weir Road, SW12 0NU ( 07930 4017 69 : nightingalemontessori.co.uk

Outdoor fun and adventure! NEW Playtime nursery in Wandsworth One sunny morning the Choosing the right childcare is important. That's why Playtime make young scientists from sure that their nursery is run to the highest standards. The Nursery Noah’s Ark Nursery will be run by a team of highly qualified practitioners, who have a School, donned warm coats wealth of experience in all aspects of childcare. They will make sure and set off to discover the that your child is happy, secure, safe and well cared for. The nursery world that is known as will be fully equipped to offer a stimulating, warm and comfortable Nightingale Square. Like environment that allows your child to develop a positive image of young Sherlock Holmes, themselves and of others. armed with magnifying The children will have the opportunity to learn and develop within an glasses, they overturned environment that encourages children to explore in open planned leaves and spied under stick rooms and have access to great learning tools. This will inspire and piles to discover the enable them to implement their ideas, encouraging curiosity and risk plethora of insects that have taking. The nursery has a beautiful and welcoming environment. “We made this their home. Faces firmly believe that active learning, critical thinking and creative play is lit up and earnest discussions essential to a child's development. Each area of play will consist of a rich took place as they looked at text environment with resources that allow children to make decisions.” their discoveries. With bags Noah’s Ark French and Spanish, mini yoga and cookery are also offered. full of leaves, sticks and There is a large vegetable garden where the children grow an array of conkers they returned to the nursery chattering excitedly about their herbs, vegetables and flowers according to the season. morning of adventure. The children will socialise in their fun dining area, smell the wonderful Noah’s Ark Nursery School looks forward to meeting any potential aromas from their chef's cooking and watch him prepare and cook scientists at one of their Tuesday Open Mornings, when they can discover food. The nursery is proud to source fresh fruit, vegetables and meat their fantastic outside area. from local suppliers. ( 48 Endlesham Road, Balham SW12 8JL 7924 3472 ext 2 Please call to arrange a visit ( 01932 246747 : noahsarknurseryschools.org.uk : playtimenurseries.com

32 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Nursery Special Feature Families SW London Nursery Feature 2016 Your local nurseries and Please call the number below to book an appointment to view the nursery Ages 3 months to 5 years childcare venues Opening times 8 am to 6 pm (Mon to Fri) Excellent facilities * newly renovated premises * stimulating, caring and homely environment * qualified and experienced staff * outside garden * Good OFSTED report * French * Music & movement * Early years foundation stage curriculum * baby unit * close to public transport * Sensory room

58 Blairderry Road, Streatham Hill, London SW2 4SB Children’s nurseries from birth to five Tel: 020 8674 4844 Open hours: 8am to 6.30pm Fax: 020 8671 0062 [email protected] If you want to visit any of our www.oaktreedaynursery.com popular day nurseries please Energetic - contact us on 020 7627 2106 outside play or email [email protected] area and additional ® SouthWest Battersea (Webbs Road) activities Battersea (Lavender Hill) Visit our online Clapham (Old Town) Balham (Balham High Road) What's On calendar It's packed with events, things to For more information please do, museums, galleries and shows visit www.babyroom.co.uk Flexible - extra for the whole family days and day

swaps Browse ALL the

family events, “ shows and We have such a happy, places to go… kind, thoughtful little girl and “have you all to thank for this www.familiessouthwest.co.uk THE STUDIO DAY NURSERY 93 Moore Park Road, Fulham, London SW6 Tel: 020 7736 9256 Est. 1987 Head: Miss J.M.R. Williams, NNEB, RSH (Norlander). Opening hours: 8.00 to 19.00 Sessions: 8.00-13.00 and 13.00-19.00 (18.30 Fri) Weeks open a year: 51, excl. Bank Holidays. Ages: Two to 5 years Max no. of pupils: 50 Av. class size: 8. Pupil/teacher ratio: 6:1 Curriculum: Montessori, Special Needs. Activities: Numbers, writing, reading, cooking, project work, art, drama, natural studies. Facilities: Glass-roofed “messy play” area, art room, own kitchen. Sports: Games during park visits. How & age to register: Phone or write for enrolment form, any age. Fees: Mornings or afternoons; Special weekly terms. Meals extra. Contact to arrange a visit: Jenny Williams—020 7736 9256.

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

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 33 Nursery Special Feature

34 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Nursery Special Feature

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 Nursery Special Feature

We are pleased to introduce the Mother and Toddler Group and welcome Mums, Dads, Grandparents and Nannies to join us on a Thursday afternoon from 2.30 - 4.00 pm term time at St. Luke's Church Hall, SW3.

A relaxed and friendly environment where Each session children are free to explore and investigate concludes with a their surroundings, develop social skills in play, singing and rhyme session and a curiosity for learning. accompanied by Please pop along for a trial session Margo from 020 7352 8784 Blueberry Playsongs. [email protected] www.ringrosechelsea.co.uk

36 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Nursery Special Feature

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 37 Nursery Special Feature

38 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016

Nursery Special Feature

40 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Nursery Special Feature

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

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 41 What’s on

We took every care in of Tintin and his creator. FREE preparing these entries but 9 January Leicester Square Theatre sometimes events are Free Drop In Family cancelled or times changed. Workshop: Data Vis' for Kids 6 Leicester Place WC2H 7BX ( Please double check event Take a data detox this January 7734 2222 : with the organiser to avoid with Adam and Tobias of Graphic leicestersquaretheatre.com disappointment. Digital Agency. Wise up to what we bring to the world both on If you haven’t yet discovered this little known gem in the heart of and off screen in an afternoon of the West End, it’s time to take a look. Leicester Square Theatre DIARY DATES delightfully data themed activity, is a magnificently restored space bang in the centre of Theatreland, 12-3pm, ages 6-12 FREE with two exceptional theatres running a family-friendly programme of comedy, dance, music and drama. See more events in our online London Model What’s On calendar Choose from shows including wonderful adaptations of Engineering Exhibition Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler tales – Stick Man ® Catch-a-balls Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace bursts into town this January, and recently we were Wimbledon, Esher, Richmond, Kew Way N22 7AY treated to a fabulous romping version of Tiddler and : ( 8398 3034 londonmodelengineering.co.uk Other Terrific Tales. And LOVES! : Catch-a-balls.co.uk 15-18 January don’t miss new versions of 9.30-10am Club BOING (18 One of the leading model shows Robin Hood and the Babes months to 2 1/2 year olds) in the UK, attracting over 14,000 in the Wood this January 10.05-10.50 Club BOUNCE (2 visitors annually. A great day out and Rainbow Magic Live – 1/2 years to 3 1/2 year olds) for all the family. 10am-5pm, Saving Fairyland, arriving The first session is free. from £3 in March. NCT Kensington And Southbank Winter West End Magic brings Festival Children's Magic Chelsea Meet Up Workshops to the Leicester Gambado Chelsea, 7 Townmead Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road Square Theatre on dates Road SW6 2PY SE1 8XX throughout the spring, : : nct.org.uk/branches/ southbankcentre.co.uk teaching children aged 7-13 kensington-chelsea To 17 January the basics of magic by a top Every Wednesday in January Winter at Southbank Centre Magic Circle London and February with NatWest returns, magician, so you can wow A great opportunity to meet transforming the south bank into your friends and family. other mums with babies under 1. a seasonal wonderland. Browse 9.30-11am, £1, show your NCT festive markets stuffed with card to get in. delicious treats and unusual gifts. history of Fulham Palace. 2pm- the Tudor Great Hall. 7.30pm Enjoy live music or see a 3.30pm, free, no booking Geffrye Museum performance, plus free activities necessary. FREE Warner Bros Studio and themed weekends. FREE 136 Kingsland Road, 2 and 23 February Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, Hoxton E2 8EA Palace Stories Hear the Palace’s Hertfordshire WD25 7LR Parent & Baby Coach history brought to life in these : geffrye-museum.org.uk : wbstudiotour.co.uk tales of the characters who lived 16-19 February 07825 914096 To 31 January here, and stories inspired by their Four Centuries in one week: : theparentandbabycoach.com Hogwarts in the Snow beautiful surroundings. 2pm- February half-term holiday Locations across SW London Discover how special effects 2.30pm, free, no booking activities. Explore homes from a 19th Jan, 10am Baby sleep and experts make snow that never different century every day from routine workshop necessary. FREE melts, how set dressers transform 4 February the Tudors and Stuarts, 25th Jan, 7.30pm Toddler sleep locations for Christmas scenes, National Storytelling Week: Georgians, Victorians and finally training workshop (for infants and how flames are created Palace Stories with Olivia the 20th century. Make age 12-36 months) without fire, its most magical Armstrong. To celebrate National candlesticks from clay, crafty 28th Jan, 10am Baby weaning makeover yet. Storytelling Week join storyteller clocks and much more, 10.30am- workshop Olivia Armstrong for an exciting 12.30pm and 2-4pm, free 1st Feb,10am Baby Massage Mum2Mum Market workshop afternoon full of traditional Nearly New Sale Somerset House 9th Feb, Potty Training folktales, legends and myths. 2- workshop 4pm, £2 per child, no booking Ricards Lodge High School, Lake WC2R 1LA necessary. Road, Wimbledon SW19 7HB : 17th Feb, 10am Baby play and somersethouse.org.uk/skate development workshop 8 February : mum2mummarket.co.uk To 10 January Discovering historic replica 6 February Skate at Somerset House is the Fulham Palace costume at Fulham Palace. Learn Buy or sell quality baby and kids ultimate festive destination. For goods at this pop-up indoor SW6 6EA about their fascinating costume young children taking their first market. 43 stalls under one roof January and February collection with Esther Dean, a steps on the ice there’s the Polar with thousands of kids bargains at The Palace Explorers distinguished costume designer. Cub Club, designed exclusively a fraction of the high street price. For children aged 2-4, £3 per Attendees will also have the for under-8s. From £7.50 opportunity to examine the Admission £2, kids free, 2-4pm To 31 January child, which includes a drink and healthy snack. Booking essential, costumes closely and dress up. Tintin: Hergé’s Masterpiece 2pm FREE Cirque Beserk! A family-friendly free exhibition - 10.30-11.30am 26 February Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street drawing on the archives of the 31 January Opera at the Palace A group WC2A 2HT Hergé Museum in Brussels, this Museum Drop-in During this Stone Age themed family drop-in, of exceptional young singers : peacocktheatre.com / new exhibition invites you into arrive from the National Opera : the wonderfully eccentric world try on period costume, handle cirquebeserk.co.uk artefacts and learn about the Studio to the intimate setting of 8-24 February

42 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 What’s on

Showcasing the finest in London International Mime traditional circus thrills and skills, Festival 2015 29 days of epic Ali Baba Zippos CIRQUE BERSERK! physical and visual theatre, films, pantomime brings this treasured form of live workshops and discussions—18 St Mary Magdalene Hall, Trinity entertainment bang up-to-date in productions from Australia, Road, near Wandsworth a jaw dropping West End Belgium, France, Germany, the Common Spectacular. A show great for Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, 07535 925 268 kids and even better for adults! Sweden and the UK. : magplayers.org.uk for tickets From £15, over 5s only 27-28 February 4th – 7th February Boy Blue Entertainment. Can Ali Baba, a poor peasant, Imagine Children’s A Night with Boy Blue One of save the day? Will he save the Festival the UK’s most sought-after hip- beautiful Salima? Can he defeat hop dance companies presents an Al Sadan and the hundred Southbank Centre SE1 energy-fuelled showcase of : southbankcentre.co.uk/imagine thieves? There is only one way astonishing moves and urban to find out – join The 10-21 February music. A packed programme of events Magdalene Players 100th show, spanning theatre, dance, music Broadway Theatre Ali Baba and the hundred and installations alongside thieves! £10 Catford Broadway SE6 4RU readings and workshops with : some of the UK’s top children’s broadwaytheatre.ticketsolve. authors. Over half of the Imagine com/shows Chickenshed Theatre no hope of finding their way back 27 January–21 February home. When they find a house festival programme is free and Chase Side, Southgate Macbeth One of his darkest and made of sweets they think their there is a huge range of activities N14 4PE most powerful tragedies, luck has changed, but things take for children of all ages and their : Shakespeare dramatises the chickenshed.org.uk a turn for the worst when they families. To 9 January psychological and political impact discover the house belongs to an The Twelve Days of Christmas of when evil is chosen to satisfy evil witch…2pm and 4pm, Do-re-mi Babies This year's magical and thrilling the ambition for power. £12/£10 Concerts Wednesdays – Sundays. festive adventure. Brilliantly re- inventing the traditional and well- Barnes, Chelsea, Fulham, Duke of York’s loved song, The Twelve Days of Wandsworth The Cambridge Christmas is a rollicking Christmas Theatre : doremibabies.co.uk Theatre adventure with lots of laughs Dates throughout January and St Martin's Lane WC2N 4BG Seven Dials, 32-34 Earlham Street along the way. Age 5+, £11-£20 : February atgtickets.com WC2H 9HU Inspirational and fun classical To 17 January : Colour House concerts. With different uk.matildathemusical.com Peppa Pig’s Surprise It’s a musicians, instruments and January and February Theatre lovely day and Peppa is playing Matilda The Musical Inspired by outside with her friends. Mummy programmes there is plenty to Watermill Way SW19 2RD the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, Pig and Daddy Pig have got a inspire your little ones. Babies and : Matilda revels in the anarchy of colourhousetheatre.co.uk surprise for her and her younger toddlers are welcome to crawl, Every Saturday and Sunday to childhood, the power of brother George but no matter dance, sing, cry, nappy change and 24 January imagination and the inspiring story how hard they try, they cannot more, so you can relax and enjoy Aladdin Poor Aladdin is tricked of a girl who dares to change her guess what it is. Age 3+, some wonderful music. £10 per by his evil uncle to enter a destiny. : peppapiglive.com adult, children free, tickets online dangerous cave and look for a To 20 February or on the door. Dates vary magic lamp. Soon he is trapped The Chelsea Theatre Goodnight Mister Tom The depending on venue. inside. £12/£10 Olivier award-winning Chichester 7 World's End Place, Kings Road Every Saturday in January and Festival Theatre production of this SW10 0DR February : much-loved children's book returns chelseatheatre.org.uk Little Folk with Albo Popular DRAMA to the West End. From £15 24 January Wimbledon folksinger and The Town & The Country See more events in our online guitarist Al Clogston performs a Mouse Join two friends as they The Little Angel What’s On calendar series of Saturday morning embark on an amazing journey concerts for kids. Folk songs, Theatre and discover that sometimes new American camp songs, traditional 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross Street The Barbican can be exciting and different can children’s songs, sing-alongs and N1 2DN be good, but the most important Theatre original songs, 10.30am, £5 : littleangeltheatre.com thing is friendship. Ages 3–8, Barbican Centre, Silk Street Every Saturday and Sunday in To 31 January 11am and 2pm, £9 EC2Y 8DS February The Giraffe and The Pelly and : barbican.org.uk Hansel and Gretel. Hansel and Me Adapted from the acclaimed 9 January to 6 February Gretel are lost in the forest with book by Roald Dahl, this is the Cont p.44

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 43 What’s on

story about a young boy who dancing snowflakes in the fantastical adventure. Whirling this man sings about everything befriends a Giraffe, a Pelican and a enchanted Land of Frost. 2.30pm through their home and garden children are really interested in! Monkey. Join them on their and 7.30pm, from £21.40 they fly through the air, dodging Professional singer and songwriter from p 43 unexpected adventures when 20-31 January the clutches of a toy dinosaur, a Nick Cope writes, records and they create the Ladderless Shrek the Musical Based on the snapping oven-glove crocodile performs music for children and Window Cleaning Company. Age award-winning DreamWorks and a very real pair of scissors. has established a strong following 4-11, £12/£14 animation film, Shrek the Musical Ages 3-6, from £9 of little and not-so-little people all is this year’s must-see show for all 12-21 January over the world. 11am and 2pm, The London Coliseum the family. From £15 Not Now, Bernard It £7.75 St. Martin's Lane, Charing Cross, 15 February sometimes feels as though WC2N 4ES : eno.org Sing-a-long-a Frozen 2016 everyone’s just too busy to listen To 10 January Calling all Annas and Elsas! to little Bernard, but when he The Nutcracker On a sparkling 3.30pm, from £15.90 finds a big purple monster in the Christmas Eve in a frost-dusted 15 February garden things rapidly go from bad Edwardian London, Clara and her Sing-a-long-a Grease Calling all to worse. Ages 3-8, from £10 enchanted Nutcracker doll Sandys and Danny's! 7.30pm, 2-6 March discover a magical world, where from £15.90 Dogs Don't Do Ballet Join she battles with the Mouse King Ballet Black for a magical and meets a handsome stranger. The Lyric Theatre performance based on the best- From £14 Shaftesbury Avenue W1D 7ES selling book by Anna Kemp, full of : nimaxtheatres.com/lyric- fun, magic and one very special Lyric Hammersmith theatre dog. From £10 Lyric Square, Kings Street W6 0QL To 10 January The Old Vic Theatre : lyric.co.uk The Tiger Who Came to Tea 16-20 February Hold on to your biscuit tin, The The Cut, Waterloo SE1 8NB Sorcerer's Apprentice Magic Tiger Who Came to Tea is roaring : oldvictheatre.com comes to life this February half back into the West End for a To 16 January term with the Sorcerer's smashing Christmas season. Join Dr Seuss's The Lorax Inspired Apprentice. Created by the Sophie and the tea-guzzling tiger by Dr. Seuss's classic tale, The acclaimed company behind Dotty in this delightful family show Lorax tells of a moustachioed and the Dragon and My Pet Monster packed with oodles of magic, sing- cantankerous critter on a mission See the orchids adorning the and Me. 11am & 1pm, £8 a-long songs and clumsy chaos. to protect the earth from the remarkable architecture of greedy, tree-chopping, Thneed- Kew's steamy glasshouse New Wimbledon The Polka Theatre knitting businessman known only Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon as The Once-ler. From £12, with SW19 1SB 50% off some tickets for ages 14 Sadler's Wells The Broadway, Wimbledon : polkatheatre.com and under. Rosebery Avenue EC1R SW19 1QG To 7 F e b r u a r y : sadlerswells.com : atgtickets.com/venues/new- Beauty & The Beast Follow The Royal Albert Hall To 24 January wimbledon-theatre Belle’s courageous journey to the Kensington Gore SW7 2AP Matthew Bourne's Sleeping 14-15 January Beast’s mysterious castle where : royalalberthall.com Beauty — New Adventures Swan Lake From the impressive she must overcome her fears and 16 January–6 March Its run at Sadler’s Wells sold out splendour of the Palace ballroom discover the true meaning of Amaluna Cirque du Soleil before its first performance and it to the moonlit lake where swans beauty. The enchanting children’s returns to the Hall with one of its returns this year by popular glide in perfect formation, this classic comes to life in an newest touring shows. Amaluna demand. £32-£65 compelling tale of tragic romance exhilarating show brimming with has never before been seen in the has it all. 7.30pm, from £21.40 adventure, music, magic and UK and will mark Cirque du Southbank Centre 16 January mystery. Age 6-12, from £11.50 Soleil’s 20th year at the world- Belvedere Road SE1 8PX The Snow Maiden Protected From 8 January famous venue. : southbankcentre.co.uk/ from the outside world by Father The Paper Dolls When a little 17 February Frost, the exquisite Snow Maiden whatson girl makes a string of paper dolls, Nick Cope's Family Songbook 10-12 February plays innocently amongst the she takes them by the hand on a Monkeys, bears, socks and mud,

Send your events details to [email protected]

44 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 What’s on

Shh... Bang! A delicate dance- theatre performance for children FARMERS’ MARKETS and their adults, playfully exploring sound and silence. Make the most of your local Farmer’s markets. Support 11am and 2pm, £12/£6 small local producers who come to you, offering great 15 February quality produce you can trust, no pesticides! The Minpins Roald Dahl's epic story is presented with music by Venn Street Market Sibelius. A small boy comes to Venn Street, Venn Street, Clapham Common SW4 0AT the defence of a race of tiny ( 7622 8259 forest people. Flying on the back : of a magic swan, he defeats a vennstreetmarket.co.uk Runs every Saturday, 11am-4pm, selling high quality local produce, fire-breathing monster who is flowers, hot food and crafts. terrorising them. 12pm, £10/£5 13 February Parsons Green Farmers’ Market Judith Kerr Written and Dulwich Picture Gallery illustrated to Judith’s exquisite Works of M. C. Esher The Thomas’ Academy, New King's Road SW6 4LY standards, it is set to delight : lfm.org.uk/markets/parsons-green readers young and old. Judith Runs every Sunday, 10am-2pm. Lots of top-notch farmers and Kerr joins Ian Craig in artisan producers including rare-breed poultry farmer James Evans conversation, followed by a MUSEUMS & of Pastures Farm, local piemaker James (Little Jack Horners) and Q&A. £10/£5 Eden Farm with excellent organic vegetables from their 18-21 February GALLERIES Lincolnshire farm. The Secret Life of Suitcases Larry works in an office and he Shaftesbury Park Farmers’ Market likes it very much. He likes See more events in our online Shaftesbury Park Primary School, Ashbury Road, Battersea SW11 5UW sorting and tidying and generally What’s On calendar ( 7228 3652 putting things in order. : shaftesburypark.wands worth.sch.uk Everything in its place, a place for Runs every Saturday, 10am-2pm, selling the freshest and tastiest everything. 11am and 2pm, Dulwich Picture food in the area with a wide variety of different meats and cheeses, £12/£6 Gallery not to mention seasonal fruit and vegetables which have been 20 February allowed to ripen fully in the field before being brought directly to Funharmonics: Join the BFG Gallery Road SE21 7AD the market. : and his sidekick Sophie as they dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk concoct a marvellous plan to To 17 January West Hill Farmers’ Market stop the giants from galloping all The Amazing World of M. C. Escher The first major UK show West Hill Primary School, Merton Road SW18 5ST over the world to gobble up : of work by the iconic graphic facebook.com/westhillfarmers market humans as they sleep. 10am- Every Sunday, 10am-2pm. One of the best places in Wandsworth 2pm, £10 adults, £5 children artist will highlight Escher’s (1898 - 1972) supreme skill as a master to find veg, fruit, meats, breads and cakes and many more St James Theatre draughtsman presenting images surprises! A huge selection of seasonal produce from strawberries which made him one of the most to free range poultry, eggs, dairy produce, freshly picked veg and 12 Palace Street SW1E 5JA popular artists of the 20th salads, free range and organic meat, fresh juice, plants, herbs and : stjamestheatre.co.uk century. 10am-5pm, £14 adults, fresh bread. Loads of space for children to play. To 17 January children free Around The World in 80 Days Putney Pier Market Join Fogg and his loyal valet Firepower Royal Putney Pier, Embankment, Putney SW15 Passepartout as they voyage from Artillery Museum ( 8871 8200 the misty alleys of Victorian : facebook.com/artonputney embankment London to the exotic Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST First Sunday of the month, 11am-5pm, with plenty of food stalls subcontinent and the wild west : firepower.org.uk plus fresh fruit and veg, but with an emphasis on art and crafts. in a race against the clock. Throughout January and 2.30pm, 7.30pm, from £15 February Cont p.46

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 45 What’s on

Their own Words A new Natural History Science The Chelsea Physic exhibition about the Great War Museum Museum A MUST Garden bringing to life artillerymen of SEE! Cromwell Road SW7 5BD Exhibition Road, 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea from p.45 different nations, through extracts from their diaries, letters home : nhm.ac.uk South Kensington SW7 2DD SW3 4HS and photographs. Throughout January and : sciencemuseum.com : chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk February From 10 February 30 January–7 February Foundling Museum Wildlife Photographer of the Leonardo da Vinci: The Snowdrop Days 2016 The 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Year Visit the Natural History Mechanics of Genius Garden’s annual Snowdrop Days Town WC1N 1AZ Museum's world-renowned Predominantly recognised as one return with stunning new displays : foundlingmuseum.org.uk annual exhibition to see the best of history’s greatest painters, highlighting the snowdrops 7 February wildlife photographs on the Leonardo da Vinci was also a intricate beauty. These stars of Foundling Sunday Join the planet. From £6.75 uniquely gifted scientist and winter will be unveiled in an Foundling Museum for a 29 January engineer. The Mechanics of innovative take on the traditional screening of four short animations Lates Visit the Museum after Genius brings the intricate Snowdrop Theatre, presenting as part of this special Foundling hours and experience a unique mechanical concepts of this snowdrops as you’ve never seen Sunday. Talk 2pm, concert 3pm, Friday night out in London. restless and curious mind to life in them before. With a programme free with Museum Admission. 6-10pm, a major interactive exhibition. of walks, talks and workshops. FREE £10, concessions available 10am-4pm, from £6.95

HALF TERM ACTIVITIES The secret lives of insects of photography and bring art and London Transport RHS Garden Wisley science together to create a Woking GU23 6QB Museum glimpse of worlds currently Beat the queues and pre-book at Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB beyond our reach. From £5.40 : : ltmuseum.co.uk rhs.org.uk/wisleybutterflies 13-21 February Et Patati Patata Sat 13 – Sun 21 February Discover the secrets of the The Mysterious Midnight Bus ( 07966 893674 butterfly and other insects. Inspired by the history of the [email protected] night bus which is explored in the Fascinating. Free family activities : etpatatipatata.com Papier Mache and cardboard exhibition Night Shift – London every day. Learn French without leaving sculptures to create crazy After Dark, little ones can fashion London with a French immersion engineered structures and a mosaic in creative workshops Battersea Arts programme based on a wide amazing characters, monsters and and hear a story about a magical Centre range of fun and creative activities animals. Ages 4-12, 9.30am- bus in storytime sessions. Free in French blended with outdoor Lavender Hill SW11 5TN 3.30pm, book on 07775 781332 with admission. sport activities. 4-10 years old. : bac.org.uk Natural History Fulham. 9am-3pm Monday to 18-20 February The Importance of Friday. 100% French Fun! At The End of Everything Else Being Earnest Museum When her best friend goes Southside Players, Chestnut Grove Cromwell Road SW7 5BD Youngstars activity missing, Icka puts her inventive Academy Theatre, Hearnville Road : mind to the test and sets off to nhm.ac.uk camps SW12 8RR 21 January - 15 May save him. For children aged 6+, ( 07920 426 499 : southsideplayers.org.uk Otherworlds: Visions of our 11am and 2pm, from £9 campbookings@young- 17-20 February Solar System Travel to the stars.co.uk Pure verbal opera in this witty remote edges of our Solar System Bank of England Camps in Clapham, Wimbledon, farce about two dashing men- in this spectacular new Museum Parsons Green and NEW Putney about-town. From £7.50 photographic exhibition created 15-19th February Multi sports Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH by artist Michael Benson. Using and activities, games, sports, Arts : bankofengland.co.uk/museum Go Ape raw data provided by NASA and 15-19 February & Crafts and more for 3-7yrs. Battersea Park ESA missions, the 73 composite The Battle for Toad Hall Mr : goape.co.uk images on display demonstrate an Toad and his friends Ratty, Mole 0845 519 8739 important chapter in the history and Badger, crept slowly through Book early for your half term the secret tunnel into Toad Hall, session! Take your children ready to commence battle and across the tree tops of Battersea claim back Toad’s home from Park, across those pesky weasels… But will high ropes, they be triumphant? A costumed swings and 3 storyteller will bring to life the different zip classic stories from ‘The Wind in wires. Three the Willows’ in these interactive levels of and fun sessions. 10am-4pm FREE difficulties: we are proud to say The Nature Study Families staff managed the Extreme course—legs shaking Centre and hearts beating fast! Tree Wandsworth Common top junior is open to any child : [email protected] over 1metre high. From £18. 16-19 February 10% per person with this Active Art Make amazing 3d code: FAMBAT.

46 Familiessouthwest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 ® Jan/Feb 2016 Classified

PARTIES Face Painting & TUITION VACANCY Balloon Modelling Lydiie Contact Susie 07814 925462 South West London www.magicaldesigns.co.uk Earn Extra Money? Chiilldren’’s Partiies Junior Chess Club Capital Focus Groups are 0207 622 2540 Experienced tutors. Weekly Chess Club, looking for people to take part The Unique Birthday Experience Holiday clubs and private tuition. in Market Research The theatre of Peter Pan, 07718 883285 and give their opinion on a Superheroes, Fairies,Arabian Silly Millie the Clown [email protected] www.swchess.co.uk variety of subjects. Nights and more... If you would like to earn extra In your home! Unforgettable Parties for 3-9 year olds cash please call Liz on Bilingual English/French Funny Magic Show, Puppet’s, Party www.lydieparties.com 07761 128059 or e-mail Games, Silly Songs and Balloon Animals [email protected] Call 020 7823 8329 - 07939 239397 www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk CHILDCARE

MUSIC HEALTH

PIANO TUITION Friendly, experienced and qualified teacher of children 6+ and adults. Home visits possible. Mark Lester MA, CT ABRSM 020 8870 7830 www.marklester.biz

PUBLIC SPEAKING Violin and Piano Tuition Jon Bailie Individual Tuition Passionate about teaching. Creative Writing Experienced. Conservatory diploma. Holistic Life Coach Speech & Drama SW15 based. Home visits possible. 07932 667336 0208 785 6494 /07956 307624 Clare Price. LGSM, ALAM [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] lifecoachclapham.co.uk (020) 7735 3156

SERVICES

PAINTING & DECORATING Interior / Exterior Experienced, Reliable, Clean Piano Lessons Fully Guaranteed / Insured Experienced piano teacher FREE ADVICE & QUOTE based in Streatham Hill, SW2 07795 625 564 John:- James & Lamont [email protected] 020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695 tommyharrington.co.uk

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk • 'Families SW' London, established in 1990, is part of Families Magazines Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned Tel: 020 8696 9680 and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Editorial: [email protected] Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, News: [email protected] Bucks, SL8 5TD. Adverts/artwork: [email protected] • The contents of 'Families SW' are fully protected by copyright and none of the Events, editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior diary dates, consent of the publisher. • There are nearly 40 UK local editions with a print run of more than 700,000 copies what’s on info: [email protected] in all, in which you can advertise too. • Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd, Pewsey, Wiltshire. Next issue: March 2016 • Designed by Shirley Trimmer Deadline: Early February 2016 • We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the ISSN 1354-9553 contents nor for any consequence. • Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources — meaning trees which are felled are continuously All content ©Families SW 2016 replaced. Inks are soya-based, which can be re-cycled.

Jan/Feb 2016 ® 47