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IN THIS ISSUE

Education Focus Feature: The Early Years

Winter Party Ideas

Whats On at your local library - 2018 Calendar

Unlock with our expertly led singing, your child’s dancing and acting classes potential for 4 -18 year olds.

CHEAM & WORCESTER PARK 01372 730363 020 8773 4242

COULSDON & SUTTON CATERHAM 01372 740284 0345 078 0805

CROYDON SHIRLEY 0845 265 7083 020 8949 1116

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Creative Courage For Life

Issuefamiliesonline.co.uk 78 January/February 2018 familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Borders , , Claygate and Esher E: [email protected] T: 01932 223309 , , Walton on the Hill, and South Epsom E: [email protected] T: 020 8432 0811

AGES 4-14 MORE THAN JUST

Voted no.1 MATHS AND ENGLISH Find out how we can help your child PRIVATE TUITION CENTRE PROGRESS in the UK Independently proven results. Since 2001 over 200,000 children have excelled academically, reached their potential and achieved the best possible results with Explore Learning. BE EXAM READY With a huge range of courses and programmes mapped to the school curriculum, Is your child preparing to sit the 11 our centres are an environment where children of all abilities thrive. Of course we Plus, a local entrance exam, the believe that maths and English are extremely important, but in addition to that SATs or an end of term test? we are truly passionate about inspiring a generation of ‘fearless learners’; children who can excel in the classroom, be confident in exams and are ready to tackle anything their future may hold. CONFIDENCE Confidence is the first step on a AL For more information visit FREE TRI child’s journey to success. SESSION! explorelearning.co.uk or call 033 0124 3802

Your nearest centres are in Addiscombe, Epsom, , North Cheam, A FEARLESS FUTURE Purley and Wallington. Supporting children to succeed in school and beyond.

EducationInvestor Awards 2016 Maths Problem English Reading Spelling Comprehension solving

2 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk London Surrey Borders Tel: 01923 239 664

Editor Tamar Pearson [email protected] Editor’s welcome Design Rebecca Carr In this issue... Printer Print Mates This is a wish for me to you, that 2018 will give you and your families all the 21,000 copies printed happiness and contentment your hearts 4 Jan/Feb news 42,000 readers per issue can hold. 5 Education news & School open days

Next issue March/April 2018 Remember to be peaceful and gentle 7 Early years childcare with each other. To look past the bad Booking deadline 9 February 2018 and only focus on the good. To tackle 9 Nursery directory tasks with love in your hearts, and to

Families London Surrey Borders is part of Families Print be grateful for every moment you have 10 Nursery news board Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the together. group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham 11 Winter party directory House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families London Surrey Borders May 2018 fill your homes and hearts are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or with happiness, love, kindness and 12 What’s on photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London Surrey Borders. Every care respect. is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families 15 2018 Library calendar London Surrey Borders; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the Tamar accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. xx

AS SEEN ON MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN! DISCOVER RUGBYTOTS Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email: 0345 313 3242 [email protected]

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The MultiSports Group Change your game

MultiSports AmershamSutton&Chorleywood & Cheam Weekend sports for boys and girls aged 4 - 16 of all abilities Tel: 084401293 3 377405150450 www.multisports.co.uk

ENROLLINGENROLLING NOW NOW FOR FOR OUR OURAUTUMN SUMMER TERM WORKSHOP WORKSHOP IN JULY AND AUTUMN TERM IN SEPTEMBER Extensive variety of sports – Professional coaches – Ofsted registered - Childcare vouchers familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 3 Spin a Tale during National Jan/Feb News Storytelling Week

The first week of February marks National Storytelling Week, a chance to reflect on one of the oldest art forms in the world. We are all immersed in stories — from conversations retelling events in our lives, to watching our favourite television shows.

Speech and language therapists believe that storytelling is vital for children’s academic success as it promotes narrative skills and strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer a child needs to be a good Mums Want More Flexible speaker and listener first. But above all, storytelling is fun. Working Opportunities Whether we are listening to someone else’s story or telling our own, inventing and adapting narratives can open doors to exciting new worlds — both real and imaginary. According to a survey by Workingmums. co.uk, almost three quarters of working National Storytelling Week takes place in storytelling clubs, theatres, museums, schools, mums identify flexible work as being hospitals, spoken word venues, and care homes. crucial to getting more women into senior roles. The Society for Storytelling has lots of information as “the home of UK oral storytelling” and offers free packs for schools to download. Visit www.sfs.org.uk to find a local event or The survey shows that mums feel flexible to look through its extensive archive. working is vital for them to manage work and family life and that 60% of those who work flexibly would like even more Petite Ecole de Reigate flexibility. receives its second Quality So what can individuals do to help Framework Award persuade their employers to agree to them working flexibly? Here are some tips: Petite Ecole de Reigate is proud to • Think through what the job requires ‘Bee Boppers’, an original, new obtain its second Quality Framework and whether the tasks you have to Award by the National Resource perform can be done at a different music and storytelling group for Center for Supplementary School location ie from home, or at times (NRCSE). It was lovely to be outside of the standard working day. children and parents, starting presented with this richly deserved Take account of any additional costs January in Sutton award at the end of term Christmas or challenges this might involve and show by Pascale Vassie, the head of discuss them honestly. Created and run by two professional NRCSE. Congratulations to all the • Give examples of the ways in which songwriters and Early Years teachers, wonderful teachers and pupils. “Great your work can be successfully carried ‘Bee Boppers’ sessions aim to improve to see how confident the children have out under any new working pattern confidence, co-ordination, memory and become”, said Pascale you are proposing, and show that it language skills. Each class is tailored will not harm the business. Point out towards the Early Years curriculum thus Petite Ecole de Reigate offers French any business advantages. providing your child with a pre-school boost. classes to beginners and French • Research some case studies, ideally Speakers from 3 to 14 years old. in your sector that shows how the Featuring catchy, unique songs, live work pattern you are suggesting can accompaniment, magical stories and exciting visit www.petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk be mutually beneficial to you and props, your little ‘Bee Boppers’ will be for more details. your employer. buzzing with inspiration once they enter this • If managers are dubious, suggest a world of music, story and fun. trial period. 55x70_alison.qxp_Layout 9 25/08/2016 10:52 Pa • Have a compromise solution as a The 40 minute classes run on Fridays back-up. between 11:40-12:20 at Trinity Church, Sutton, SM1 1DZ and are for accompanied For more information and flexible work children from walking age up to 5 years. opportunities, visit www.workingmums. co.uk First session is frre. Limited spaces! Book now. Email Helen: beeboppersmusic@gmail. com. www.beeboppersmusic.co.uk

Birthday For classes of pure MADness, Parties join MAD Academy Too! Babies from 3 months action songs and sensory stimulation Walkers to 2 years music, movement and motor development 2 to 4 years dance, musicality and beat competency Classes in & surrounding areas Call Alison on 020 8407 1726 or email: [email protected]

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

4 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk Preparing Your Child for The 11+, SATS or GCSE’s Learn to Leading mock test provider, MockTestMasters, has opened a new dance, act & sing tuition centre ‘’Exam Pass Masters” in Wallington, offering expert tuition to help your child better prepare for the 11+ , SATS and GCSE exams. Little Stars (4 – 6 years) Stars 1, 2 & 3 (7 – 16 years) All our tutors have excellent track records and deliver tuition focused on Maths, English and Science, either in 1 to 1 or group courses. New term now booking Our experienced teachers concentrate on the key areas children find particularly challenging, giving them the knowledge and skills to pass the exams with confidence. Free trial sessions For maximum flexibility, we don’t insist on long contracts - book are available at all classes as little as 4 weeks of tuition. Take advantage of our money saving Call us on 020 8460 5711 now or visit introductory offer - 1 lesson free when you book 4 lessons (11+ and www.spotlightstheatre.co.uk to book SATS tuition only.) spotlightsuk spotlightsuk @spotlightsuk 11+ and SATs tuition starts on Saturday 13th January 1 lesson Beckenham | Bromley | Croydon | Orpington 2018. GCSE English Masterclasses start on 20th Sanderstead | South Croydon | West Wickham January 2018. FREE when you book 4 Come and find out more at our Open Day on 13th January between 2 – 5pm. SUA3708 Families Magazine New Term Ad Ad 87x85_FINAL.indd 1 14/08/2017 13:43 To enrol your child, call us on 0208 064 1011 or visit www. exampassmasters.com. The Lotus Practice

Now offering baby Downsend Launches New massage and yoga! Senior School And GCSE Expansion Plans ü Cranio-sacral therapy

Surrey pupils now have a greater ü Baby Massage Courses choice when taking their GCSEs as in Leatherhead ü Baby Yoga Courses will expand to include a Senior School from September 2020. Baby massage is relaxing and enjoyable for both Reflecting an initial capital investment of £3 million by the school’s mum and babies, supporting bonding between owner, , the development builds on Downsend’s track you and your baby with quality time that’s fun. record as an established preparatory school with strong academics alongside character development and wellbeing, particularly in the areas of sport and the performing arts. The new Senior School ) 07956442223 will educate girls and boys up to Year 11, seeing them through the : [email protected] completion of a new 3 year GCSE Programme. 8 www.thelotuspractice.com For more information please visit www.downsend.co.uk

11+11+ Mock Mock Tests Tests StageCEM WALLINGTON1 style- Mock 11+ StageOrpington/Kent 2 SuttonSUTTON Schools Selective Eligibility Test Selective Eligibility Test SelectiveBexley(SET) Eligibility Tests& Stage 2 Test MockGrammar (SET)Tests & Stage Schools 2 Dates:Dates: 20/2/1530/3/15 Fri – Mon.Half Term pm Dates: 18/2/1531/3/15 Wed – Tue. Half Sch. Term hols Dates: Sat 28/3/15 11/4/15 12th Jan Saturday – Sat. (Weekend) am Dates: Mon 01/4/1526/5/15 12th Wed - Feb Tue. Easter (Half Half termterm)Hols Gymboree Play and Music Cheam 29/5/15 Fri Half Term 27/5/15 Wed Half Term Fri30/5/15 16th Feb – Sat. (Half am term) Tue04/7/15 3rd April– Sat . (Easter)am Sensory Baby Play Play & Learn Where: Hurst Community Whe re: Crofton Halls, Where:Centre, HurstWallington Place, SM6Hurst Rd, CWhere:rofton Road,Sutton OrpingtonSM3 or Art Music Parties Where:Bexley DA5The Centre,3LH Milton Rd, BR6Where: 8PR WallingtonSutton Life SM6 Centre, 24 WallingtonSeeTime: the 1.30pm website SM6 – 3.45pmfor9RP full address. Time:SeeAlcorn the 9.30am Close, website Sutton- for1pm full SM3address. 9PX

Fee:Fee: From FromFee: £45 £22.50£25 for per 2 papers paperper paper including including detailed detailed feedback &and TRY A FREE CLASS TODAY! feedback andaccessFREE online toonline all software questions. tests.* to practise. BOOK NOW 07990 761 259 [email protected] www.mocktestmasters.com FEEDBACK includes ü www.gymboreeclasses.co.uk ✔ Detailed Ranked report table on ofyour results child’s ü Your✔ child’sStrengths strength & weaknesses and weaknesses report ✔Access ü to mock test questions & answers Access to mock test questions & answers ✔ü YAnswerour child papers’s answer returned, papers if applicable returned familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 5 Spring School Open Days

Banstead Preparatory School Sutton Lane, Banstead, SM7 3RA 01737 363600 Tues 16 Jan and Fri 9 Mar Nursery Stay and play sessions, Mon 22 Jan and Wed 14 Mar www.bansteadprep.com

Collingwood School 3 Springfield Road , SM6 0BD 020 8647 4607 Sat 24 Feb www.collingwoodschool.org.uk

Cumnor House Boys & Tree Tops Nursery 168 Pampisford Rd, CR2 6DA Explore Learning gets behind “more 020 8660 3445 20 Feb (Y1-Y8) maths for everyone!” www.cumnorhouse.com

In November 2017, the government released Dad to borrow money? Give them some Cumnor House Girls & Tree Tops their budget which stated they were options 1) They can either save up their Nursery committed to investing more money for pocket money or do jobs to earn the 1 Woodcote Ln , CR8 3HB maths teaching in schools. Whatever your money. 2) You will give them the money 020 8668 0050 political belief and aside from the debate, we upfront, but they then have to pay you 27 Feb (All School) can all get behind the chancellor’s sentiment back with interest. So, if they want £50 www.cumnorhouse.com of “more maths for everyone”. they have to give you £55 back over a Ewell Castle Junior and Senior set period of time. This way they will Church St, KT17 2AW Helping the next generation to master maths start to understand about the debt they 020 8393 1413 concepts, be confident mathematicians and could create by using loans. [email protected] proud problem solvers is our responsibility Sat 27 Jan as educators and parents. 3. Learn about pay. A great activity we www.ewellcastle.co.uk do with our older members at Explore Charlotte Gater, Head of Education at Learning is to get them to research how Homefield Preparatory Explore Learning added “This way we much they would get paid for their ideal Western Road, SM1 2TE can help children to develop the skills job. They then have to see how far their 020 8642 0965 needed, not only in so many jobs, but also monthly wages would go. Looking at Wed 24 Jan to be financially healthy. Whilst listening tax, rent, bills etc gets them to see how www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk to the budget speech, and the chancellor’s much disposable income they would comments on how much the country spends have! , Epsom on debt, it is clear that we need to teach 56 West Hill, KT19 8LG children the importance of good financial Let’s take the fear out of maths, relate it to 01372 723590 management. real life situations and encourage children Thurs 22 and Sat 24 Feb to get to grips with finances. More maths for www.kingswoodhouse.org Charlotte has put together some top tips everyone…yes please! Manor House School & Nursery to help you help your children have a good Manor House Lane, KT23 4EN understanding of budgets: Explore Learning is 013 7245 7077 award-winning maths Reception Class Taster Morning Wed 7 Feb 1. Get them involved with shopping. Give and English tuition for www.manorhouseschool.org them a budget to spend for the week children aged four to and get them to meal plan. Encourage 14, voted number one Old Palace School of them to shop around different brands private tuition centre Preparatory or supermarkets to see if they can get in the UK! We’re confident 2, Melville Avenue, CR2 7YN more for their money. you’ll love it so why not call to book your free 020 8688 2027 trial with your nearest centre today on 033 Thurs 25 Jan & Thurs 1 Mar 2. Teach them about interest rates. Does 0124 3802. Senior - Old Palace Rd, CR0 1AX your child turn to the bank of Mum and Wed 21 Feb & Sat 24 Feb www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org

Reedham Park School 71a Old Lodge Lane, Purley, CR8 4DN 0208 660 6357 Pupils aged 4 – 11 years Parents are always welcome at Reedham Park School. To arrange a personal tour please fill out our online booking form ENROLLING NOW FOR www.reedhamparkschool.org.uk GCSE ENGLISH & SCIENCE Sutton High, Nursery and Juniors MASTERCLASSES 86 Grove Rd Sutton, SM1 2AL 11+ TUITION 020 8225 3075 Sutton High Seniors 55 Cheam Rd, SM1 2AX Starts January in Wallington. 020 8642 0594 Places are limited. Open Morning Senior School & Sixth Form Wed 14 Mar For more information Open Morning Nursery & Junior School Thurs 18 Jan Call 0208 064 1011 www.suttonhigh.gdst.net www.exampassmasters.com

6 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk

60% of all A Level grades at A*/ A in 2017

Early Years Activity Mornings Monday 22nd January, 9.30am - 11.00am Wednesday 14 March 9.30am - 11.00am Come and enjoy a fun session for families. Nursery and Reception places available.

An academically challenging education for girls from Nursery to Sixth Form A new, co-educational independent prep school for girls and boys aged 2 - 11 Open Mornings on 18 January & 14 March

SUTTON LANE, BANSTEAD WWW.BANSTEADPREP.COM 01737 363600 Book now at www.suttonhigh.gdst.net

INSPIRE | NURTURE | ACHIEVE Inspiring An independent co-educational day school for pupils aged 3-18 young minds

At Downsend, we open young minds to learning through discovery and active play. We would love to invite you to experience our happy school where inspiring your With an ethos in which each child’s achievements are child academically* and acknowledged, valued and celebrated, pupils thrive nurturing their talents are academically as a result of a varied curriculum, an given equal focus. extensive extra-curricular programme and outstanding pastoral care *98% of Reception ‘meet or exceed’ Early Learning Goals (vs 69% national average) Open Week Whole School Open Morning 26 February-2 March Saturday 27th January 2018 10am - 12noon Call to book a visit For further details and to pre-register Personal tours available anytime please visit our website ewellcastle.co.uk Enrolling now for Nursery and Reception 020 8394 3576 [email protected] T: 01372 372311 www.downsend.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 7 Education Focus Feature: The Early Years Can You Really Get 30 Hours of Free Childcare Per Week? By Ben Black

The recent increase from 15 to 30 hours of free One of the key issues is the negative impact of early education and childcare per week brings the 30 hours funded childcare on the business with it no shortage of complications for parents models of childcare providers. This is because looking to take advantage of the scheme – and the hourly rate received by the provider from the confusion is rife. Government may not cover the running costs of setting, leading to a funding shortfall. As a In theory, the new 30 hours of free childcare result, some providers have chosen to opt out scheme should be hugely helpful for parents of of the scheme all together, whilst others will be 3 and 4 year olds in England who will be eligible. charging parents for additional things such as However, there are sure to be some difficulties in nappies and food, or charging more for babies the transition and the reality may be somewhat and children under 2 years old, meaning that different from what was envisaged. the so-called ‘free’ childcare may not actually be free at all. Applications must be made by parents through the Government’s childcare service The consequence of childcare providers opting on the gov.uk website the term before they out of the scheme is that parents need to act as plan to start using free childcare. There are quickly as possible to secure the places that are strict termly deadlines for application, so it’s on offer. Some providers may choose to offer important for parents to keep a close eye on the only some of the funded hours, so parents may To feature your nursery in our Government’s cut off dates - or they will miss also need to consider splitting their childcare next issue call 01923 239 664 out on funding for the following term. between more than one setting.

If parents are eligible, they’ll receive a code that Another factor to consider is the time period will allow them to arrange their childcare place over which the funded childcare hours are with any childcare provider on Ofsted’s Early distributed. The existing 15 hours are usually Years Register. This code will allow for childcare taken weekly over 38 weeks and many with the provider for three months, before the participating parents in the new 30 hours code expires. Parents will be notified before scheme will be expecting to use them in the the expiry date, giving them the opportunity to same way. However, childcare providers are log back in and either confirm or update their perfectly entitled to offer fewer hours over a circumstances. longer period. Whilst this may be helpful for To be eligible, children must be 3 or 4 years old, parents looking to spread the hours out to cover each parent (or sole parent) must be working, more weeks, it will mean that you actually get based in England and earning more than £120 fewer than 30 hours of funded childcare each per week (for those aged 25 or over) and no week. more than £100,000 year. It is important that parents are fully aware of all their options. Check eligibility and in particular, Participating childcare settings include nurseries discern whether your preferred childcare setting and nursery classes, playgroups and pre- will offer some – or all – of the free hours and schools, childminders and Sure Start Children’s how they will implement the scheme. Centres. The key word is ‘participating’ as not all childcare settings will be participating in the Ben Black is CEO at My Family Care. You can scheme. find out more information on the new childcare Parents who are not eligible will be able to options on the My Family Care website at www. continue receiving 15 hours of funded childcare. myfamilycare.co.uk, as well as on the new Those who become ineligible after commencing Childcare Choices website set up by the HRMC to use 30 hours funded childcare will receive a at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk. This also gives ‘grace period’ of 30 hours funded care, before information about the new Tax Free Childcare returning to the 15 hour entitlement. Scheme.

Kiwi's Pre-schools Wood Chips Forest School Learning to play - Playing to learn

We care for children from 18months – 5 years Ofsted registered – GOOD Parent/Carer and Toddler Free Funding accepted for 2-5 year olds group 30 hours funding available

Kiwi’s Woodmansterne Kiwi’s Nork Kiwi’s Meadvale Woodmansterne Village Nork Community Centre, Copse Road, Meadvale, Hall, Carshalton Road. Nork Way, Banstead Redhill

For more information please contact Spaces Come and have fun with your little ones in beautiful Catherine on 07899654463 or available Chipstead woodland. Sessions each Weds and Thurs. Run Email [email protected] for January by fully qualified Forest School Leader. For more info 2018 email: [email protected] or contact Susie www.kiwisplaygrouppreschool.co.uk 07982 1984 51

8 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk is a wonderful team of childcare place at their first choice senior Reedham Park School Early Years practitioners who all share Kiwi’s school, with a creative approach 71a Old Lodge Lane, Purley, statment of “Learning through to learning that inspires young CR8 4DN Directory play.” They offer the professional minds from the time they first step 0208 660 6357 care required by Ofsted while through our doors. From their www.reedhamparkschool.org.uk ensuring a safe environment early years and nursery, through to looked for by parents. Year 8 Downsend provide the right Reedham Park is a small, platform for academic success. successful school that provides a It is this approach towards caring and nurturing environment childcare and the belief in close Ewell Castle Junior and Senior for 4-11year old boys and girls communication between parents Church St, Ewell, KT17 2AW and prove that an excellent and staff that makes Kiwi’s such a 020 8393 1413 independent education need wonderful setting where children www.ewellcastle.co.uk not cost you a fortune. Reedham thrive. offers a traditional, no frills, Ewell Castle Nursery offers a preparatory school experience Banstead Prep School warm, caring and stimulating at a fraction of the fees charged Play BC PreSchool Sutton Lane, Banstead, SM7 3RA environment for children at the by other independent schools 020 8088 4808 01737 363600 start of their school life. The in the area. The curriculum www.playbc.co.uk www.bansteadprep.com children learn and play in the is broad and fulfilling, from purpose-built Nursery building, introducing the children to times Play B C is a teacher led preschool Banstead Prep School Nursery and benefit from new facilities tables in Reception to learning in Wallington. Good preschools offers girls and boys a happy and a bright, spacious area. In the Shakespeare and Latin by time and playgroups have a lasting and secure environment in a Outdoor Area, children can play in they leave us. Thus Reedham positive impact in all areas, dedicated building on the main a quiet area, on the climbing frame Park Schools’ founding principle particularly where a trained school site with full access to or in their own castle! All children of ‘delivering an exceptional yet teacher is present. This means all that Banstead Prep can offer. are individuals, and at Ewell Castle affordable education to local sensitive adult interaction and Children in the nursery enjoy Nursery, each child is given the children’ remains to this day. developmentally appropriate Forest School sessions and time and space to grow and be activities. We also have a fantastic specialist teaching for PE, Music themselves; becoming confident, Sutton High School Nursery & learning environment in our new and French. The Nursery team, independent learners. Children are Junior School home in Butter Hill. led by a dual qualified Early Years supported with focused learning 86 Grove Road, Sutton Surrey, Teacher, ensures our children opportunities each day across the SM1 2AL Our well-qualified and are completely prepared for a Early Years Curriculum and are 020 8225 3003 experienced staff prioritise confident transition to Reception encourages in every way to reach www.suttonhigh.gdst.net developing a relationship with and beyond. their potential, whilst making new your child and offering fun but friends and feeling part of our At Sutton High School our priority challenging learning. OFSTED We are running stay and play happy Nursery. is to enable girls to be happy, says our children’s ‘emotional well- sessions, including a visit to confident and independent. Our being is well supported’ and they the Early Years classrooms, for Little Learners Day Nurseries belief is that when girls enjoy ‘make good progress right from children who would join Nursery in 46 Haling Park Road, South coming to school they develop a the start’. 2018/2019 to attend with a parent Croydon, CR2 6NE, 020 8649 love of learning and feel supported or guardian on Mon 22 Jan and 7745 I 156 Whitehorse Road, to try challenges and discover At Play B C Preschool we aim Wed 14 March at 9.30am. For more West Croydon, CR0 2LA their individual talents and to make every day a learning information and to book a place 020 8683 2476 I The School gifts. We would be delighted to adventure and be the next best call 01737 363600 or admissions@ House, Beaumont Primary, Old welcome you to visit us to learn thing to families. bansteadprep.com. Lodge Lane, Purley, CR8 4DN how we value the whole girl, from 020 8406 0080 our academic focus, through a Kiwi’s Nursery Downsend Schools www.little-learners.net connected curriculum, to their 07899654463 Pre-Prep Leatherhead - 01372 enrichment in our extracurricular kiwisplaygrouppreschool.co.uk 385437 At Little Learners, we operate programme. Girls can join our Pre-Prep Epsom- 01372 3 small and very friendly day Nursery in the half- term before Kiwis Woodmansterne, Banstead, 385438 nurseries in the Croydon area. their third birthday, and we also SM7 2PP, Kiwis Meadvale, RH1 Pre-Prep Ashtead - 01372 372197 Caring for children aged 6 months provide wrap-around-care during 6NW, Kiwis Nork, Banstead, SM7 Prep Leatherhead - 01372 372197 – 4 years at our South Croydon term time. 1JB www.downsend.co.uk and West Croydon branches and children aged 2-4 years at our We are ideally situated on a green The team at Kiwi’s believe that As a specialist Pre-Prep and Purley branch. We offer full time, and leafy site with our Junior with childhoods getting shorter Prep School in Surrey, Downsend part time and Early Years Funding School and Senior School on the it is important that children enjoy understand every single stage sessions (including 30 hours) as same campus so transition into their precious time while being of your child’s educational well as extended opening hours of Senior School life is the natural prepared for starting school. development. They go beyond 7:30am-6:30pm at all 3 branches, next step. At each of their three sites there preparing our children for a subject to availability.

familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 9 Nursery News Board My Busy Bots – Busy Bags of Fun Buttons are Recruiting At My Busy Bots we create busy bags containing fun, for Nannies educational activities that will engage your little ones and Do you have a childcare keep them occupied. qualification and a few years nanny Our busy bags can be used experience? Are you looking for a new job in 2018? Then look no either at home or on the go and they’re perfect for keeping children further as Buttons Nanny Agency can help you find your next nanny happy and absorbed while at the doctors, getting your hair cut, role. travelling, answering that crucial email, cleaning, cooking or out for lunch. There’s no glue, glitter or paint – no mess! You must have the following:

As busy mums ourselves, we love how they captivate enquiring little • DBS/Ofsted registered minds and encourage time away from using screens. Our activities • Paediatric First Aid Certificate help them discover new topics as well as develop essential abilities • Minimum 2 years nanny experience (like fine motor skills and visual perception skills). Neither crafts • Childcare qualifications (which are messy and can be completed only once) nor toys, the • Car driver and car owner (for Surrey branch registration) bags use everyday items in unusual ways that will intrigue and develop your child. We are looking for enthusiastic, caring childcare professionals who

are seeking to progress in their career. These colourful busy bags also make brilliant gifts for your friends

– what mum doesn’t need the gift of five minute’s peace? To see Buttons Nanny Agency was established in 1991 and has a large our ranges, visit our website www.mybusybots.com. Follow us database of nannies, covering Surrey, London and Hertfordshire. on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news, freebies and We have part time, full time and emergency/short term roles competitions. available. Registration is FREE. Please send your CV to surrey@ buttonsnannyagency.com or for more information on our nanny services, visit www.buttonsnannyagency.com or call 020 3637 4040. Wood Chips Forest School is back in the woods...! Town and Country wins Great news for parents and carers and their a Platinum Award in the little ones! Wood Chips Forest School returns Best Books for Children to the woods this February after their short winter break. Now in its fourth successful (5+) category at the year this fun and exciting outdoor Parent/ Junior Design Awards Carer toddler group welcomes families to beautiful Chipstead each Wednesday and 2017 Thursday. Enjoy sharing woodland games and crafts, den building, bug hunting, songs, stories, and a hot chocolate in a friendly and fun Town and Country is a delightful book that will capture any young woodland setting. Run by Susie Timms, a qualified Forest School mind. Illustrated by Brighton based Craig Shuttleworth, Town and Leader and one of the first UK Skogsmulle Leaders after training in Country gives children an comparable insight into the lives of Sweden. Morning and afternoon sessions are available and must be country and town folk and is full of clever little details – spot buses, pre booked. trains, and skyscrapers in the town and tractors, mountains, and farm animals in the country. For more information contact Susie: [email protected]

With a mini glossary for each picture – featuring tiny pictures picked out from the main scene – Town and Country is completely Banstead Prep Early Years play and stay session absorbing for children who are just starting to engage with simple written words. Banstead Prep, a Co-educational Nursery and Prep School for girls and boys aged 2 – 11 are running stay and play sessions, Town and Country is published by Ivy Books and can be purchased including a visit to the Early Years classrooms, for children who for £8.99 at Waterstone, Amazon and other retail outlets would join Nursery in 2018/2019 to attend with a parent or guardian on Monday 22 January and Wednesday 14 March at 9.30am. For more information and to book a place contact Admissions on 01737 Local Coulsdon Mum picks up a 363600 or [email protected] Gold at the Mother & Baby Awards

Local mumpreneur, Anna Lloyd, the inventor of Buggi Lights, a ladybird shaped lights which clip to the bars of a buggy - has been rewarded for her lightbulb moment by winning one of the most rigorously judged awards in the parenting industry.

I came up with the idea for Buggi Lights because I simply didn’t feel safe crossing roads at dusk with Sam in the pram. And much as I tried to avoid being out with him at this time, it was virtually impossible in winter when dusk can fall as early as 4pm.

Buggy Lights are available from the Hippychick online shop, as well as through JoJo Maman Bebe, Amazon and Precious Little Ones and good independent shops

10 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk Moo Music VENUES /ONSITE PARTIES www.moo-music.co.uk Let’s Party the Moo Doo way. Park A Moo Doo is a fantastic way of Bocketts Farm Park is the ideal celebrating a birthday whatever place for a fun filled birthday age you are. party. With animals galore, exciting play areas, tractor rides Perform and animal handling sessions, www.perform.org.uk plus the menu of your choice in Based around a colourful theme one of the decorated party rooms, and involving lots of lively you can be sure of a great day games, Perform use the power out! Enjoy a full day of fun on the of children’s imaginations to farm park, private animal handling transport them to a different session, fully decorated party world. room, balloon and animal mask for each child. Call 01372 363764 Winter Party Ideas Play Ball www.bockettsfarm.co.uk www.playballkids.com Our Playball parties are great We love this feature. It is always such fun to plan and hold your Bouncing Bunnies Soft Play birthday party entertainment and children’s birthday party. We have listed everyone and everything Café are a hit with parents because 1st Nork Scouts Hut (St. Paul’s) to make your child’s party one to remember. our Playball coaches take the Warren Road, Nork, SM7 1LG reins, handle all the games and Bouncing Bunnies is a family run ENTERTAINERS / ACTIVITIES Kiko Soccer School activities, while you and your soft play area for children under www.kikosoccerschools.com guests sit back and watch your six. ARTventures Kiko Soccer School parties aim party peeps have a blast! www.artventurers.co.uk to provide the most fun football Craggy Island Sutton ARTventurers have a range of parties for your children without Hartbeeps Children’s Parties Oaks Sports Centre, fabulous creative party packages you having to worry about www.hartbeeps.com Woodmansterne Road, to suit all age groups! the stress of booking venues, Hartbeeps makes your little one’s Carshalton, SM5 4AN organising games ect. birthday the best ever by bringing Climbing Parties that are great Baby Ballet all the magic of Hartbeeps to life fun for everyone! www.babyballet.co.uk MAD Academy especially for them.1-5 years Babyballet dance party give your www.madacademy.com Everyone Active little ones and their friends a MAD Academy birthday parties Mini Monkey Gym Everyone Active runs offer a chance to play and dance in a real are all about singing and dancing www.minimonkeygym.co.uk range of fun filled birthday party life babyballet class. – and that’s what they do best! croydon-and-beckenham packages. For more information, ‘’We love nothing more than Mini Monkey Gym pride and to find your nearest center Baby Sensory bringing our MAD enthusiasm, themselves on providing fun filled, visit www.everyoneactive.com www.babysensory.com energy and expertise to your high quality playgym parties for Baby Sensory will give your little child’s party to ensure it’s one under 5’s. Dinotopia Education Centre one a fun-packed party that your everyone will remember’’ 286A Lower Addiscombe Rd, guests will talk about for weeks MAD Parties cater for all children, Presto Performing Arts Croydon CR0 7AE and you’ll remember fondly! from babies of 3 months, toddlers, www.prestoperformingarts. Dinotopia have a great party and young children. Let MAD co.uk centre for small guest list and a Creaion Station Academy make your birthday Presto Performing Arts have small budget, prices start from www.thecreationstation.co.uk party sparkle! Email: alison. a wide range of Presto! Party £9.50 per child. Creation Station parties are [email protected] Packages. tailored around your child and are Dotty’s Teahouse great fun for you too, giving you Monkey Music Ready Steady Go Kids 108 High St, Carshalton SM5 3AE less to do. www.monkeymusic.co.uk www.rsgk.co.uk A truly delightful teahouse with “My son loved his Monkey Music Ready Steady Go Kids put all of crafty party packages just for the EzeeSport 1st birthday party - as did all his their amazing Multi-sports fun little ones. www.ezeesport.com friends and their older siblings. into a great party experience. Outrageous Multi Sport Party Very well planned and engaging Fusion Lifestyle- Croydon Fun making’ your child’s birthday for the children. Monkey Music Rugbytots Leisure Centers party EZEE! parties make having a birthday www.rugbytots.co.uk Croydon Leisure offer a range of party easy and more importantly A Rugbytots Party is a fun filled birthday party packages. Froggle Parties Ltd the little ones loved it! Highly fantastically fun-filled way to For more information, and to find www.froggleparties.com recommend.” celebrate your child’s birthday or your nearest center visit www. High energy parties that are any other special event. fusion-lifestyle.com nonstop fun. Every little monkey loves to party. Monkey Music parties bring Stagecoach Themed Birthday Giggles Soft Play Jo Jingles together singing, dancing and Parties The Harrier Centre, King Georges www.jojingles.com playing musical party games into www.stagecoach.co.uk Recreational Ground, Poole Rd Jo Jingles parties are perfect for a great party, that is individually Let your child enjoy the wonderful KT19 9R any celebratory occasion and tailored to your little one. You world of make-believe as Giggles Soft Play offer exclusive your can rest assured that our Monkey Music host will ensure Stagecoach takes them on a parties on a Saturday and a local and qualified music teachers that all your party guest, and roller-coaster ride through his/ Sunday. will make sure that your child and the birthday boy/girl will have a her imagination. Please visit their friends have a wonderful and special day to remember. the website to find your nearest Glazed all Over truly memorable birthday party! Stagecoach Party provider. 102 Stafford Rd, Wallington For parties in Cobham, Epsom For parties in in Banstead, SM6 9AY & Fetcham and Leatherhead and Claygate please contact Tumble Tots Parties Children love being able to please call Viv Hunt on 07751 Dinah at banstead.claygate@ www.tumbletots.com choose from a range of items, and 438943 [email protected] monkeymusic.co.uk. For parties in Tumble Tots Epsom, delivers a fun then using their imaginations and Or Lorraine Bryant for parties in Epsom, Dorking and Leatherhead filled 2-hour, tailored party full of our extensive range of colours Banstead, Sutton and Purley on please call contact Tina or Emma active play.Walking to 5 years create something to be proud of. 07376 381617 lorraine.jojingles@ [email protected] yahoo.com familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 11 What’s On Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ...and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families London-Surrey Borders!

Every Mon Term time only bad behaviour lead to the belly of a Little Explorers beast. Adults £12, children £8. Hall Park, SM4 5JD 10am – 11.15am & 1pm-2.15pm Sat 13 Jan – Sun 4 Mar 0344 800 1895/ 0208 545 6850 Butterflies in the Glasshouse Help your under 5s discover the RHS Garden , GU23 6QB world around them and learn about Set hearts aflutter this winter with mini beasts, the weather or get green exotic butterflies among plants from fingered. 18 months - 5years. £2. Book far-off shores in the paradise of the in advance. Glasshouse. Be amazed by the many colours and sizes of butterflies in Jan to Mar 12-4pm the‘jungle’ and learn all about them Get Fired all: Setup, Decorations, Service of Through the keyhole: private lives with our interactive displays. 914 Brighton Rd, Purley CR8 2LN Refreshments, Cleanup & Much unlocked at Ham You bring the people and we’ll More! To book your party please Ham House and Garden, TW10 7RS Sat 13 Jan & Sat 10 Feb 9am–1pm Discover more about the private lives Wallington Farmers Market supply the creative fun. Great for visit www.mygym.com/wallington of the residents of this great house. Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, children’s birthday parties Tours on selected days and tickets are SM6 0NB Once Upon A Time Soft Play available on a first come first serve Quality local produce. Gymboree Play & Music, Cheam Epsom Square, 7 The Derby basis NAA. [email protected] Square, Epsom, KT19 8AG Sat 13 Jan, 2pm-5pm Until Fri 9 Feb Fighting for Air 07990 761 259 A bright and spacious indoor soft Winter walkies Honeywood Walk, SM5 3NX No two children or Gymboree play area for 0 to 5 year olds Ham House and Garden, TW10 7RS National Aircraft Factory Centenary Play & Music parties are exactly For the first time, our four legged family Event Design and make a “WW1 the same. Allow us to make Oxygen Freejumping members are invited in to the garden. Poster” An artist led workshop inspired your child’s birthday party The Colonnades Leisure Park, We’re ready with walking routes, and by the posters of WW1 looking at the Ham bones for our new visitors. NAA. “First Blitz” and spotting enemy aircraft. unforgettable at our fabulous site Croydon. Oxygen Freejumping, FREE. in Cheam Village. Croydon’s favourite trampoline Every Fri in Jan - 10.15am – 11am www.gymboreeclasses.co.uk park, is making your celebrations Snappity the Crocodile’s activities Sat 13 Jan, 1pm to 2.30pm this year one to remember with Kingston Museum Crimean War and Florence Jupiter Jo’s Soft Play Café the ultimate kids party! Wheatfield Way, Kingston KT1 2PS Nightingale Come along for a story or song and a Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF Cox Lane, West Ewell, KT19 9PS Rugrats Stay and Play Café making activity. Free but donations are Discover Florence Nightingale’s life Jupiter Jo’s Soft Play Café is a fun The Royal British Legion Hall, welcomed. For under 5’s. story; hear about her famous lamp filled two-level play zone and just Mickleham Gardens Cheam at Scutari Hospital and her later waiting to be explored by young A new stay and play soft play café Mon 1 Jan – Wed 28 Feb, 10am–4pm campaigns for nursing and health astronauts up to ten years old for children 0 – 5. Wake up Winkworth reform in England. £5. Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Spot which plants have woken up from Mon 15 Jan, 1pm-3pm Kidspace Adventures Si5 Spy Missions Croydon their winter slumber with our self- Carshalton Community Allotment The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, 7 Exchange Square, Croydon guided walks. NAA plus 50p per trail. session Croydon, CR0 4RQ CR0 1TR Westmead Allotments, Colston London’s number one children’s Si5 SpyMissions is the ultimate Sat 13 and Sat 20 Jan, 11am Avenue, Carshalton, SM5 2PW Everybody is welcome to take part spy mission birthday party An Actor’s Life for Me - Pinocchio party venue. Workshop growing food and take a share of the experience in for kids of all ages. The National Theatre, SE1 9PX harvest home to eat! No need to book, Little Lambs Soft Play Explore the world of Pinocchio in a fun it’s entirely free. Sessions run on Mon 38 - 40 Chipstead Valley Rd, Stitches Haberdashery family workshop where drama, music 1-3pm and Fri 10.30am-12.30pm. Coulsdon CR5 2RA 16 Upper Mulgrave Road, Cheam, and design combine in a quest to bring the story of the famous puppet-boy Sat 20-Sun 21 Jan, 11am-3pm With a wide variety of soft play Surrey, SM2 7AZ to life. Using costume, improvisation, Big Wetland Birdwatch equipment for under 5’s Little Cushions, buntings, bean bags songs and story-making, families will Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD Lamb’s can host a perfect party. and more. Stitches have a range create scenes exploring how lies and Find out more about the birds living of fantastic, creative party’s Mother Kitty’s suitable form 5 years up. Rickman Hill Park, Coulsdon, CR5 3DU The Good Ship Lollypop 10th - 18th February 2018 A delightful, vintage style soft play at Tooting & Community café with birthday facilities that Sports Club promise to delight. Imperial Fields, Bishopsford Road, FEBRUARY www.motherkittys.co.uk Morden, SM4 6BF Funky and fun soft play venue HALF TERM FUN My Gym Wallington with amazing birthday party Daily birds of prey 4 Melbourne Road, Wallington, packages. flying demonstrations(Mon-Fri only) 70 GORGEOUS SM6 8SY Plenty of indoor play & activities NEWBORN 02086 698510 The Sports Village LAMBS DUE At the My Gym Wallington Rose Hill Park, Rose Hill, Sutton, Early Spring lambing starts HEATED location, every birthday party is Surrey SM1 3HHAt Sutton Sports PLAYBARN a perfectly planned celebration Village, your child will enjoy an PLUS: & SEATING Animal handling, goat AREA! created especially for your hour of their chosen activity with milking, tractor rides, pig child, with special song and our fun and friendly coaches racing and pony rides daily!

game requests made prior to followed by 45 minutes in a AWARD WINNING! the birthday party. Our amazing decorated party room with food www.bockettsfarm.co.uk birthday party specialists will Situated in Leatherhead, Surrey. 5 minutes from J9 M25. make your birthday party unique Village Ceramics # and special. And all our birthday 31 Station Way, Sutton SM3 8SD SPECIAL £2 OFF full price farm entry per person* parties feature nonstop action- Village Ceramics has become a Valid weekends from 6th Jan - 11th Feb 2018. Only with this packed activities, games, puppets, very popular stress free venue for OFFER voucher (*max 5 people). OFF PEAK WINTER WEEKDAY RATES songs, and more! My Gym does it birthday parties in Cheam. £7 per person apply Mon - Fri, 3rd Jan - 9th Feb 2018. FM

12 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk in our wetland with our volunteer bird Sat 24 Feb, 10am– 12noon Fri 16 - Sun 18 Feb 11.30am -4.30pm guides. Make a craft too. All Saints Church, Croydon Chinese New Year - Year of the Dog CR2 9AB Honeywood Walk, SM5 3NX Sat 20 Jan 3.30-5.30pm Are you a Dog, Monkey, Rooster or a Wallingdon Mum2Mums Nearly New HALF TERM EVENTS Pig? Have fun with themed craft and Sale follow our ‘Famous Dogs’ trail. FREE. The Centre, SM6 9RP Sat 10–Sun 18 Feb, trail available Buy quality second hand and nearly daily 10am–4pm Sat 10 Feb, 1-2.30pm new baby & children’s stuff. Half-term invasive species trail The Tower - Escape, Imprisonment Claremont Landscape Garden, and Execution. Mon 22 Jan, 10.30am start KT10 9JG Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF Bach to Broadway Come and discover some of Discover the dark bowels of this great Sat 10 – 18 February St. Mildred’s, CR0 7EB Claremont’s invading beasts and where Royal palace and the stories of those February Half Term Fun at Bock- Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed to find them. NAA plus 50p for trail. held prisoner there. £5. classical concert series for babies, etts Farm Park toddlers and their carers. Sat 10 Feb–Sun 18 Feb, 10am–4pm Mon 12 - Tues 13 Feb, 11am-2pm Enjoy a great day out on the farm Children’s half-term trail Wow! It’s an owl! this February Half Term with the Tues 23 Jan, 11am–12.30pm Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY start of the Spring lambing. There Winter walk Get some fresh air as you explore the Follow the owl trail to see and interact are up to 70 lambs due from Feb Claremont Landscape Garden, Arboretum with our children’s trail with real live owls! Discover more 10th - you may even see one being KT10 9JG during this half term holiday.NAA 50p about these lovable creatures and born! Birds of Prey will also be at Join our friendly guide Hilary to see for per trail sheet. make an owl mask to take home. £5. the farm Monday-Friday where you what Mother Nature is up to at this 3yrs+. can meet them up close and watch traditionally quiet time of the year.NAA. Sat 10 Feb - Sun 18 Feb, 12-4pm the flying demonstrations twice February half-term trail at Box Hill Horniman Museum and Gardens daily. What’s more, there is a full Sat 27 Jan, 11am The Old Fort, KT20 7LB Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ programme of fun farm activities Playful Puppets (a relaxed workshop Enjoy our half term trail based on 50 Mon 12 Feb - Fri 16 Feb including pony rides, tractor rides, for families with additional needs) things to do before you’re 11 and 3/4s. Family Art Fun animal handling and pig racing. The National Theatre, SE1 9PX Join free and fabulous craft activities Outdoors, enjoy the jumping pillows, Become a puppeteer for the day in this Sat 10 Feb–Sun 18 Feb inspired by the Horniman’s new treehouse towers, pedal go karts practical and fun family workshop. This Ham unlocked family exhibition Colour: The Rainbow and play trails. Plus, the large indoor workshop has been created specifically Ham House and Garden, TW10 7RS Revealed. Free. area with a giant heated playbarn, for families with disabled children aged Follow our trail with keys and locks this 6 – 12, but is open to all. Adults £5, February half term and unlock Ham Mon 12 Feb - Fri 16 Feb trampolines, ride-on tractors and a children £3. House’s secrets. £2 per trail. Horniman Explorers coffee shop means you can have a 11am-12.30pm, 2-3.30pm great day out whatever the weather! Sun 28 Jan, 11.30am – 1pm & Mon 12-Fri 16 Feb, 11am-4pm Take part in a series of challenges 2–3.30pm February half-term that could have you trying on clothes, www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Travelling Stories Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD playing music, drawing and exploring The British Library, NW1 2DB Make your own portable kitchen objects on our holiday theme. 10am, 11.15am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm, Jump aboard and hear tales that have garden to take home ready for spring. 3.45pm (45 min sessions) sailed seven seas with storyteller Olivia Learn how to plant your own salad and Wed 14 Feb, 10.30am-3.30pm Learn to dance like you’re partying Armstrong. yourself and discover how take care of it with our urban ranger Big Wednesday - Colour & Carnival through the streets of Brazil with to tell your own travelling tale. team. £5 per child. Join us for a day of performances and Gandaia Arts. Ages 4+. £5 pp. storytelling inspired our new family- Wed 7 – Sun 18 Feb Tues 13 Feb, 11am – 12.30pm and friendly exhibition. Gatton Park, RH2 0TW Southbank Centre’s Imagine 1.30pm – 3pm Mon 12 Feb, 10am-12noon or 1-3pm Children’s Festival Chinese Tales and Ribbon Dance Thurs 15 & Fri 16 Feb Fantastic Foxes (4-7yrs) Southbank Centre’s Imagine Children’s The British Library, NW1 2DB Colour - Carnival Dance Workshop Find out more about these clever Festival returns for a seventeenth Celebrate Chinese New Year at this year celebrating storytelling and fun family workshop. Join artist and changemakers. performer Jih Wen Yeh as she weaves fascinating stories and performs a Weds 14 Feb, 7-9pm beautiful ribbon dance. Then take part Cake and prosecco fundraiser in a ribbon dance workshop for all the Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD family. Help us raise money for our romantic folly by tasting loads of different cakes Tues 13 -Thurs 15 Feb, 11am-1pm with a glass of bubbly. £35 per person. Half-term drop in traditional crafts Online booking essential. Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Mon 19 Feb, 10.30am start Come and join us in the thatched Bach to Broadway cottage with some traditional wooden St. Mildred’s, CR0 7EB crafts and see how children entertained Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed themselves before television. NAA plus classical concert series for babies, £1.50 per craft. toddlers and their carers. Wed 14 Feb 11am-1pm Tues 20 Feb, 11am–12.30pm Honeywood Mini Explorers - Winter walk Paddington Bear Claremont Landscape Garden, Honeywood Walk, SM5 3NX KT10 9JG Listen to a Paddington Bear story, Join our friendly guide Hilary to see make a marmalade sandwich, play pin what Mother Nature is up to at this the hat on Paddington and join in with traditionally quiet time of the year.NAA. other themed crafts. 6 – 10 years. FREE.

Sat 24 Feb, 3pm - 4.30pm Wed 14 Feb, 11.30am -4pm NCT Nearly New Sale A 1912 Wallington Wedding St Andrew’s Church, SM2 7HF Honeywood Walk, SM5 3NX Top quality baby and children’s clothes With love in the air, come and see the and equipment at bargain prices. £1 beautiful wedding dress worn by Emily per adult. Clara Brougham. She married Robert Henry Pentleton in the Holy Trinity NEARLY NEW SALES Church in Wallington in 1912. Mum2Mums Nearly New Sales Buy quality second hand and nearly Wed 14 & Thurs 15 Feb, 11.30am new baby & children’s items. -4.30pm Victorian Valentines Sat 27 Jan & Sat 17 Feb 2-4pm Honeywood Walk, 3NX Ruxley Church Hall, Epsom Croydon Follow your heart through the museum KT19 0JG on our trail and join us to make a Victorian Valentine card. Leave a note Sat 3 Feb & Sat 3 Mar10am-12pm on our landing board about what Thomas Wall Centre, Sutton makes your Valentine so special. SM1 4DP

familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 13

165LiingWithature21Families13mmAW.indd 1 1221 1622 animals, follow a smell trail and take Cheam Library, SM3 8QH MacDonald’s Farm show comes the part in a giant collaborative artwork. Ages 6-11 - £10. spookiest show ever. £7.50 per child. Mon 12 Feb, 1.30pm-3.30pm Thurs 15 Feb Thurs 15 Feb, 10am-12noon or 1-3pm Decoupage & Decorate – Workshop Cirque Enchantment February Forest Fun (4-7yrs) Westcroft Library, SM5 2TG Features stunning choreography, Join our Forest School, explore Cedar Ages 6-11 - £10. breathtaking vocals and mesmerising Wood, make woodland crafts and enjoy cirque performers. a snack around the fire. £7.50 per child. Thurs 15 Feb, 10.30am-12pm Sea-Life Crafts Sat 10 March Wed 14 & Fri 16 Feb, 10–11.30am or Wallington Library, SM6 0HY The Jungle Book Sat 10 – 18 Feb 1.30–3pm Ages 2-5 - £5. Join Mowgli and his friends Baloo the Living with Nature at Hever Castle Toddler Trails and Tales (2–4 years) bear and Bagheera the panther on a Discover more about conservation Enjoy the story of Sharing a Shell by Thurs 15 Feb,1.30pm-3pm madcap adventure in the jungle. and local wildlife as part of Hever Julia Donaldson and go for a walk Wacky Wildlife Crafts Castle’s February half-term event, around the park to bring it to life. £7.50. Sutton Life Centre, SM3 9PX Living with Nature. Ages 2-5 - £5. The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1QG Beddington Park, SM6 7NN 0870 060 6646 Following on from the RSPB’s Big Wed 14 Feb, 11am-1pm Fri 16 Feb ,10.30am-11.30am Wed 21 Feb – Thurs 22 Feb Garden Birdwatch (27 - 29 January) Half-term Xplorer challenge Ballet, Music and Movement Peppa Pig’s Adventure and the Big School’s Birdwatch (2 Explore the park and hunt for the Worcester Park Library, KT4 8ES Peppa Pig and friends are back in the Jan- 23 Feb) families and individuals themed markers. Collect a map and Ages 2-6 - £5. brand new live show. are invited to visit the historic castle complete the challenge as fast as you can! Start point by the Pavilion Café. Fri 16 Feb, 10.30am-12.30pm Fri 23 Feb – Sat 24 Feb in Kent to enjoy ‘Living with Nature’ Lantern Making Workshop Russian State Ballet of Siberia’s aimed at school aged children. Thurs 15 Feb, 10am Phoenix Library, SM6 9NZ Romeo and Juliet Habitat box half-term workshop Ages 6-11 - £10. From the grandeur of the masked ball Find out how to create habitats and Build a wooden bird or bat box for our to the intimacy of the lovers’ balcony, encourage wildlife into your garden northern woodland belt. Fri 16 Feb, 1pm - 2pm this star-crossed story is unmissable. and join the RSPB workshop. Ballet, Music and Movement Sat 17 Feb, 2pm Circle Library, SM5 1JJ Polka Theatre Join RSPB volunteers on a stroll CTC cycle ride Ages 2-6 - Cost £5. 240 The Broadway, SW19 1SB around the grounds to learn about Meet outside the café at 1.45pm. 020 8543 4888 natural and manmade habitats Join Sutton CTC on their beginner’s THEATRE Wed 14 Feb – Sun 18 Feb or take a self-guided ‘Wildlife cycle ride. An easy cycle ride starting I Believe in Unicorns Detective’ walk to investigate animal from Beddington Park and exploring An enchanting tale about the power of footprints and tracks. Learn about the surrounding area. Rides last 2-3hrs. Ashley Avenue, KT18 5AL books and one boy’s bravery. 6–8 years. nature throughout history from how 01372 742 555 fur was used to keep warm to which Sat 24 Feb, 10.30am Fri 26 Jan Thurs 22 Feb – Sun 4 Mar birds belong to the Queen. Community Tree Planting The Beach Boys Story - A Tribute Grandad’s Island Grab a spade and help us develop and Guaranteed to leave everyone with A heart-warming adventure filled with improve our woodland! Equipment and a smile on their face, a song in their songs and laughter. 5–8 years. Encourage creepy crawlies into your gloves provided. heart and a truly memorable live music garden by building a bug house or experience to cherish, this is a show Wed 28 Feb - Sun 4 Mar buy a bag of bird food and feed the you do not want to miss. Glisten birds. SUTTON LIBRARY Watch as the theatre fills with colour, Wed 14 Feb sounds and surprises, creating a www.hevercastle.co.uk Mon 12 Feb , 10.30am-12pm Crafty’s Creepy Castle sensory landscape ready to explore Cookery–Perfect Party Food From the team behind Marty after the performance is over. 0-18mths. Register for Wear A Hat Day 2018 and start planning your event!

Wear A Hat Day is the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event. It takes place on Thursday 29th March 2018. March is also UK Brain Tumour Awareness Month. Schools and families across the country get involved to help raise funds for research into brain tumours.

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer… yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Families are being left devastated by this dreadful disease. This is unacceptable!

Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK that is purely dedicated to raising funds for continuous and sustainable scientific research into brain tumours.

Taking part can be as simple as putting on a hat and donating on the day, but most families like to create entertaining fundraising events. Many schools for example have inventive hat competitions, parades and fashion shows and raise hundreds if not thousands of pounds.

Register now on www.wearahatday.org and start planning your Registered charity number 1153487 (England and Wales) SC046840 (Scotland). Company limited by guarantee 08570737. hattastic fundraising event. More information, event ideas and fundraising tips can also be found on the website.

14 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk CUT OUT AND KEEP " Your 2018 local library calendar Libraries offer families some great activities for all ages. We have put together all the regular events held at your local library for 2018.

Storytime Rhymetime Wiggle & Jiggle: Homework Club LEGO Education l Booking required Under 5 years 0 - 5 years 0 - 5 years 9 - 16 years Workshops Term time only Term time only 8 - 12 years

MITCHAM AND Homework Club Wiggle & Jiggle Rhymetime: Tues 11-11.30am Rhymetime Fri 11-11.30am MERTON Tues & Thur 3.30–5.30pm, Tues 11–11.30am 18m+ Saturday 2-5pm Stay and Play: Tues 10-11am Worcester Park Library Mitcham Library Rock and Rhyme Windsor Road, KT4 8ES 157 London Road, CR4 2YR Bradmore Green Library Sat 10.30-11am Craft Time: Wed 4pm - 5 pm 020 8337 1609 0333 370 4700 Bradmore Way, CR5 1PE (ages 5 - 10, term-time only) 020 3700 1003 Storytime Rhymetime Fri 10.30-11am Sat 11-11.30am ages 2+ Family Film Sat 2.30pm (Spaces are limited, collect 1:1 Reading for Children l a free ticket from the library Mon 4.15–5.45pm (ages 5+) Crafternoon Sanderstead Library Code Club Computer for desk from 10am) Tues 3.15–4.15pm (ages 3-11). South Croydon, CR2 0HL children Mon 4-5pm (ages Storytime Tue & Thur 020 3700 1015 9-12) Scrabble club Wed 1–4pm 10.30–11am Storytime: Wed 2.15-2.45pm Craft Session for Kids Rhymetime Wed 10-10.30am Homework Club Coder Dojo 1st and 3rd Sat Bookstart Rhymetime Thurs 11–11.30am Tues and Fri 3.30pm - of the month 2pm – 4pm l Fri 11–11.30am Wiggle and Jiggle 5.30pm, Sat 2pm -5 pm info@ wpcoderdojo.org.uk Morden Library Wed 11-11.30am Games Club Fri 2pm London Road, SM4 5DX EPSOM AND 0333 370 4700 Storytime SUTTON Broad Green Library SURROUNDS 89 Canterbury Road, Fri 3.30-4pm ages 2½ + Welcome Morning for Cheam Library CR0 3HH Ashstead Library Under 5s: Church Road, SM3 8QH 020 3700 1005 Selsdon Library Woodfield Lane, KT21 2BQ 10.30–11am 020 8644 9377 Addington Road, CR2 8LA 01483 543599 Rhymetime: Saturday Stories & Song: 020 3700 1017 Rhymetime Wed 10-10.30am Fri 10-10.30am Rhymetime Fri 10.15-10.45am 11–11.30am Rhymetime Mon 11–11.30am Storytime: Sat 11.15-11.45am Homework Club Mon & Fri Circle Library Craft for Kids: Green Wrythe Lane, Banstead Library Wed 5–5.30pm 3.30–5.30pm, Sat 2-5pm Storytime Tue 10.30–11am SM5 1JJ Bolters Lane, SM7 2AW 020 8648 6608 Coulsdon Library Rhymetime Fri 10.30-11am 01483 543599 Chess Club for Children: Thur 5–6pm Brighton Road, CR5 2NH 020 3700 1007 Rock and Rhyme Rhymetime:Tues 1.30-2pm Rhymetime Sat 10.30-11am Tues 10.15-10.45am Children’s Book Club: Sutton Life Centre, Fri 10.15-10.45am 1st Thur of the month 5–6pm Rhymetime Tue 10-10.30am Storytime Sat 2.30–3pm SM3 9PX 020 8644 9696 Wiggle & Jiggle Dads Rhymetime Read & Rhyme Contact the library for more Fri 10.30–11.30am Thur 11–11.30am Crafternoon Sat 3-4pm Rhymetime Thur 10.30-11am days and times Craftytime Games Club Tues 4 pm Sing & Read: Storytime Thur 2.15-2.45pm Thur 11am –12pm Fri 3.45-4.30pm (ages 5-7) The Phoenix Centre Parent’s Club Mon 11.30am Wallington, SM6 9NZ Caterham Hill Library Homework Club Rock and Rhyme – 12.30pm & Fri 11am-12pm 020 8770 4901 Westway, CR3 5TP Thur–6pm Sat 10-10.30am (Under 5s) 01483 543599 LEGO Education Workshop Rhymetime Fri 10.15-10.45am Story and craft Every Tues alternating CROYDON Rhymetime Thur 10.30-11am Sat 3-4pm (Under 8s) between StoryStarter and The Westcroft Centre WeDo from 4-5pm l Croydon Central Library Carshalton, SM5 2TG Storytime Fri 2.15-2.45pm LEGO Education Workshop 020 8647 1151 Katharine Street, CR9 1ET Every Mon alternating Laughing Club First Mon of 020 3700 1034 between StoryStarter and the month 4.30–5.15pm. 4+ Caterham Valley Library Rhymetime Wed 10.30-11am Stafford Rd, CR3 6JG WeDo 4-5pm l Rhymetime: Shirley Library 01483 543599 Wed & Sat 11-11.30am Sutton Library New Addington Library Wickham Road, CR0 8BH Thurs 10.30-11am & St Nicholas Way, SM1 1EA Rhymetime Fri 10-10.30am 61 Central Parade, CR0 0JD 020 3700 1019 11.30am–12noon 020 8770 4740 020 3700 1009 Rhymetime Fri 10-10.30am Storytime Fri 2.15-2.45pm Homework Club Rhymetime Tues 10.15 Tues & Thurs 4-6pm Rhymetime Wed 11-11.30am Craft Workshops Age 4+ -10.45am & 11.15-11.45am Chatterbooks Saturday 2-5pm Fortnightly Sat 2.30-4pm Fri 10.15-10.45am & 11.15- Every four weeks on Sat, Storytime Thur 11-11.30am 11.45am l 3-4pm (ages 9 to 12). LEGO Education Workshop Book Buddies Every Fri alternating Homework Club Mon 4-4.30pm (Under 7’s) Closed for refurbishment until Epsom Library between StoryStarter and Tues & Thur 3.30–5.30pm & February. Sessions held at The Derby Square, KT19 8AG WeDo from 4-5pm l 01483 543599 Sat 2 -5pm South Norwood Library Sutton College or Thomas Lawrence Road, SE25 5AA Wall Children’s Centre while Rhymetime Thur 10.30-11am Ashburton Library Library 020 3700 1021 Sutton Library is closed for Shirley Road, CR9 7AL Croydon, SW16 4UW refurbishment. 0203 700 1001 Storytime Tues 2.15-2.45pm 020 3700 1011 Rhymetime: Mon 11-11.30am Rhymetime Mon at and Fri 2–2.30pm Ewell Library Rhymetime Rhymetime Fri 11-11:30am Sutton College 1-1.30pm & Tues 11–11.30am 2-2.30pm l Bourne Hall, KT17 1UF Wiggle and Jiggle 01483 543599 Wiggle and Jiggle Wed 11-11.30am Wiggle & Jiggle Thur 10.30-11am Rhymetime Thurs at Thomas Wall Children’s Rhymetime Thur 10.30-11am Thurs 11–11.30am Rhymetime Fri 2-2.30pm Storytime Sat 11-11.30am Centre 10-10.30am & Book Buddies 11- 11.30am l Storytime Wed 2-2.30pm Storytime Sat 11am Thurs 4-4.30pm Under 7’s. Purley Library Ewell Court Community Banstead Road, CR8 3YH Wallington Library Addiscombe Young Thornton Heath Library Library, Epsom KT19 0EB 020 3700 1013 Shotfield, SM6 0HY Writers Two Sat a month. 190 Brigstock Road, CR7 7JB 020 8770 4900 01483 543599 9.30-10.30am. Ages 6-11. 020 3700 1023 Rhymetime Tues 10–10.30am Rhymetime Tues 11-11.30am Rhymetime Wed 2-2.30pm familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 15 Unlock your child’s potential with our expertly led singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 -18 year olds.

CROYDON CHEAM & WORCESTER PARK 0845 265 7083 020 8773 4242 stagecoach.co.uk/croydon stagecoach.co.uk/cheam

EPSOM COULSDON & CATERHAM 01372 730363 0345 078 0805 stagecoach.co.uk/epsom stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon

SHIRLEY SUTTON 020 8949 1116 01372 740284 stagecoach.co.uk/shirley stagecoach.co.uk/sutton

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