Little London April/May 2015 by The Chelsea Magazine Company

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EASTER ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS FROM TWO TO TEN

Emilia Fox MY LONDON HOTSPOTS

great escape

HOLIDAY MUST-HAVES TOP TIPS FOR AN EASY GETAWAY

CHILD BE LONELY?

What to wear how to wear it

Bobbi Brown

THE BUSINESS OF BEAUTY

Dress up

FASHION FOR FLOWER GIRLS AND PAGE BOYS

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Whether you’re looking for a first stroller for a new baby, or downsizing for an older one, we know you want your little one to be as well protected and comfy as possible. That’s why we’ve created the Armadillo Family, five designs for all kinds of lifestyles. For mums and dads who want one stroller that does it all, we’ve created the revolutionary Armadillo Flip. The most compact fold out there, whichever way the seat is facing, it’s travel system ready and gives your baby plenty of shelter and wriggle room from birth. The groundbreaking design lets you fold it forwards or backwards into the most ultra-compact size there is. And if you prefer a little more comfort from your ride, Armadillo Flip XT comes equipped with all the extras you need. The original Armadillo itself is also ready to go from birth. With the perfect balance between compact and comfy it’s ideal for parents looking for a simpler second stroller. And with the slimline Armadillo City and well-equipped Armadillo XT to choose from too, there’s an Armadillo for everyone.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Spring is well and truly underway and it seems a most fitting time of year to join the Little London team. With another British summer on the horizon, we’ve been busy preparing you for all eventualities – from sunshine to the inevitable showers (p.20). And hand-in-hand with holidays, come adventures! Susannah Warren gives us the low-down on ‘three-generational’ travel (p.82). We’ve also selected the smartest accessories to help make your journey a smooth one (p.79). And whether you’re gearing up for a big trip, or in the midst of one and needing some entertainment, check out our travel-themed reads for little bookworms (p.22). Closer to home, super-glam mother Emilia Fox shares her London hotspots (p.24) and our Agenda pages will guide you right to the centre of the action (p.29), alongside the sweetest Easter activities. With the wedding season nearly upon us, we turn our minds to party fashion. While you can’t always control how they behave, you can ensure

We'd love to know what you think of our latest issue!

that they look their very best. If you have a little flower girl or page boy preparing to walk down the aisle take a look at our fabulous outfits and accessories fit for little princes and princesses (p.53). As a London mother myself, I’m always keen to hear more about educational developments, I’ve recently been swotting up on ‘diamond schooling’ (p.102), which involves both single-sex and co-educational teaching, offering a brilliant solution to cutting down on logistics, as well as suiting the different learning styles of boys and girls. And moving to the playground, the inspirational Gia de Picciotto tells us more about the Edible School Garden project which is now being taken up by some top London schools (p.100). Another reason to encourage your Little Londoners to get outside and enjoy the sunshine!

KATE FINNEY, EDITOR littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

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contents APR/MAY 2015

58 FEATURES 24

My Little London

Life in Miniature

Daddy Cool

Cause for Concern

One Love

Level Playing Field

British actress Emilia Fox tells us why she loves living in the city We talk playtime with Carl Shaw, Toyella founder and dad-of-three Summer Litchfield explores the stigma around having an only child Becky Dickinson looks at 21st century gender stereotyping

Editor Kate Finney uncovers the tales behind our favourite doll’s houses Emma Oliver helps you navigate food allergies and anaphylaxis

SHOPPING 17

Little London Loves

We can’t get enough of this magical tent – perfect for imaginative play

Let it Rain

Forever Sunshine

Love is in the Air

Our favourite wet weather gear to brighten up a grey day It’s time to freshen up your kids’ wardrobe in time for spring Gorgeous outfits for page boys and flower girls; plus thank you presents

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

68 STYLE 58

Street Style

We discover the coolest urban trends for Little Londoners

Bedtime Stories

Travel in Style

Stylish beds for him and her All aboard! We pick the top fashion trends for out and about in the city

TRAVEL 77

Travel News

Three’s a Crowd

Taking you and your little ones across the globe The latest trends on holidaying en famille

39 REGULARS

EDUCATION

99 Education News 100 Eats, Shoots and Learns

Eleanor Doughty chats with Gia de Picciotto, founder of the Edible School Garden project

102 Diamond Schooling

Lynne Taylor-Gooby explores an exciting approach to education

13 22

News Books for Beyond

Little Agenda

Olivia’s Little Luxuries

105 Use it or Lose it!

little london

Columnist Olivia Falcon unearths London’s most desirable essentials Leonora Bamford and Nanny Anita from mybaba.com get creative

107 Meet the Head

BIG

ll is the new Sma

What’s on in the capital

56 Get Crafty

How to keep kids’ brains in gear in the holidays

We speak with Holly Hirst, head of The Royal Junior School

Our pick of the best travel and adventure books

92 Cooking Them Healthy Georgie Soskin and Jo Saunders take a look at digestion

42 110 Groups and Classes

The best activities in town for you and your little one

112 Boutiques

Get shopping in the capital

114 The Business

Make-up range founder Bobbi Brown on balancing work and family life

ELEANOR DOUGHTY | SENIOR ART EDITOR CHLOË COLLYER | SENIOR DESIGNER EMILY WELLER | DESIGNER BRIGITTA HOLMAR | MANAGING

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contributors APR/MAY 2015

ON EXPE ATI RT UC

SHAND, TE ED KA

SHAW, K RL IN CA

Where do you live? I live in Queen’s Park. My daily commute through Hyde Park is one of the biggest highlights of my day. Where did you go to school and what’s your biggest memory? St Mary’s School, Ascot. My best memory is our Shrove Tuesday fancy dress competition. It happened every year and we all dressed up in silly costumes. Read Kate’s advice on tutoring in the holidays on page 105.

FANA TI C

GIE SOSK OR IN GE

OD FO

TOYS OF

Where’s home for you, Carl? I was born in Worcester and we live back there now. What do you love most about being a dad? I love just ‘hanging out’ with my kids. They are six, nine and 12 now and their pearls of wisdom on world topics keeps you feeling young! As a child what was your favourite toy? I loved LEGO bricks. Find out more about Carl’s fascination with toys in our Daddy Cool feature on page 36.

Where do you live, and what do you love most about the area? I live in Shepherd’s Bush. I find it’s full of a lot of creative people. I’m also just round the corner from my sister, which is great! What’s your best childhood food memory? It might not be the most glamorous, but I absolutely love chips and I remember my mum feeding me a lot of them. See Georgie’s delicious recipes on page 92.

LITTLE LONDON ONLINE WHEN YOU’RE ON-THE-GO OR GRABBING A COFFEE AND HAVE A MOMENT TO SPARE, DIP IN AND GET YOUR DAILY DIGITAL FIX

YOU SAY… @bkd_london We’re famous! Thanks @_Little_London for the feature #bkd @mybabablogging So crazy proud of my sister in law @pinklining speaking at tonight’s talk with @_Little_London @Minerva_Edu @_Little_London We are so proud to be in your gorgeous magazine!

8 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

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BIG HEARTS FOR LITTLE PEOPLE

From left to right: Committee members Nathalie Esfandi, Elizabeth Hawtin, Samantha Bauer, Sayoko Teitelbaum, Maryam Akhavan, Leila Moghadam, Patricia Haimes, Nicole Gazal O’Neil, Pippa Vosper and Shona Hampel

Families and friends attended the show-stopping Valentine’s themed party, Big Hearts for Little People at the Louise Blouin Foundation. The event raised a fabulous £145,000 for Great Ormond Street Hospital. The party was attended by magician Dynamo, alongside fashion stylists Pippa Vosper and Lisa Reuben as well as some of London’s top entrepreneurs and their families. gosh.org

Too Cool for School

FAIR FEET

JuJu Footwear has recently released their latest kids’ range of cool sandals in partnership with The Project Jelly Foundation. Your little one will have the fairest feet in the land as 20% of each purchase goes to Great Ormond Street Hospital. £19.50 | projectjelly.com

Th is spring sees the collaboration of two Little London favourites: The Cambridge Satchel Company and Peanuts. The collection is full of character, and you can expect to see Dog Collars, Zip Pouches and a range of Classic Satchels with all the fun and personality of Charlie Brown, Snoopy Lucy and The Gang. Each satchel features the iconic Charlie Brown zig-zag print, and space inside for the details of the proud owner. A nostalgic nod to schooldays that’s perfect for any studious trendsetter. cambridgesatchel.com

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

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20% OFF PETIT BATEAU One of our French favourites, Petit Bateau, has been busy creating their cutest collection to date. Expect to see whimsical little petticoatdresses rub fashionable shoulders with bright, quirky prints. Little London readers can enjoy an exclusive 20% off in Petit Bateau UK stores and online with free delivery. Simply use code 20SS15 – très bien! petit-bateau.co.uk *Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or on sale items.

All Aboard Little Londoners Opening on 28 March, explore the London Transport Museum’s exciting new play zone, All Aboard. Little Londoners can play on a mini fleet of vehicles and dress up in uniforms to become drivers, mechanics, cleaners, station announcers and even river captains. Too much fun to choose from! ltmuseum.co.uk

14 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

Best Book Bites

KIDS COOK FRENCH Go on an arty adventure with Kids Cook French, boasting a wonderful selection of enticing recipes, in both French and English. We love the beautiful illustrations by world renowned chef Jacques Pépin. (Quarry Books, £12.99) THE TICKLE FINGERS COOKBOOK The Tickle Fingers Cookbook is a great kitchen companion for those cooking with little ones. With 30 simple, yet delicious recipes there’s something that every mini-chef will be able to rustle up, almost by themselves. (cookwithtoddlers.com, £8.99) NOODLE KIDS You can now go around the world in 50 fun dinners with Noodle Kids. Th ink Japanese ramen, Italian spaghetti and American mac ‘n’ cheese. Packed full of tips, suggestions and inspiration aplenty. (Quarry Books, £15.99)

NEWS

Power to the Portland

London’s world-renowned Portland Hospital for Women and Children in Great Portland Street has been granted planning permission which will double the hospital in size. A stunning new bridge will link the hospital to an adjacent building, offering three new paediatric floors and 20 new inpatient beds and making a total of 80 dedicated private paediatric beds. theportlandhospital.com

BEE WISE

Swimming in

PHOTOGRAPHY: FREEPIK.COM

Stella McCartney Kids has done it again… this time stealing our hearts with their first swimwear range for children aged newborn to 14 years. Full of playful themes inspired by the spirit, energy and fun of childhood, let little ones swim in style. stellamccartney.com

! S T A T S R SU PE FORGET SPIDERM AN, BATM AN AND SUPERM AN, KIDS DECLARE PARENTS ARE THE REAL SUPER HEROES IN A RECENT SURV EY BY NOVOTEL HOTELS

Fashion label and slogan t-shirt designer Katharine Hamnett has launched a range of organic cotton charity t-shirts in support of PAN UK. The project intends to reduce pesticide use and improve the profitability of cotton production, with a percentage of profits going directly to the charity. The range consists of four t-shirts and a vest in a relaxed boxed fit style. £18 | katharinehamnett.com

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

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L VES

MELON ON THE MOVE This creative tent in mouth-watering What a Melon design is perfect for imaginative play. Super easy to assemble and suitable for indoor and outdoor use, embrace the great outdoors and set up camp! Fruity fun at its best. ÂŁ145 | fieldcandy.com

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALEX & ALEXA BY MIKOLAI BERG

SHOPPING

JUNIOR GAULTIER TRANSPARENT RAIN MAC £127, alexandalexa.com

HUNTER SILVER WELLINGTON BOOTS £38, alexandalexa.com

PUDDLESTOMPER WELLIES £16, muddypuddles.com

CLOUD CHALK BOARD WALL STICKER £39, thismodernlife.co.uk

CATS AND DOGS UMBRELLAS £14.99, hollyandbeau.com

LET IT

Rain

BRIGHTEN UP A GREY DAY WITH THIS ADORABLE WET WEATHER GEAR AE-HEM SPOT PRINT RAIN CAPE £27, rabbit-in-the-moon.co.uk

STELLA MCCARTNEY DANDELION RAINCOAT £115, childrensalon.com

PETIT BATEAU ICONIC UNISEX RAINCOAT £63, petit-bateau.co.uk

WHISTLE & FLUTE KAWAII CLOUD SWEATSHIRT £30, booscloset.co.uk

MINI TEEPEE £30, scandinavian minimall.co.uk

EMILE ET IDA T-SHIRT £20, littleconcept.com

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

SHOPPING LAURA ALLOVER FLAMINGO DRESS €48, igloandindi.com/en

OWL DOUBLE STRAP SNEAKERS £28, poconido.com

DOLCE & GABBANA PALM AND POLKA DOT T-SHIRT £115, harrods.com

TOMS PINEAPPLE PRINT SHOES £28.75, selfridges.com

SCOTCH R’BELLE PRINT JACKET £93.95, scotch-soda.com

SCOTCH & SODA WORLD MAP T-SHIRT ECRU £28.35, smallable.com

FOREVER

Sunshine

STELLA MCCARTNEY FLORAL SWIMSUIT £60, childrensalon.com

KEEP THE LITTLEST MEMBERS OF YOUR FAMILY LOOKING CHIC IN THE HEAT

ROKSANDA ILINCIC LOWE STRAPPY DRESS £300, selfridges.com

RETRO SUNGLASSES £12, boden.co.uk WHISTLE & FLUTE – KAWAII ICE CREAM T-SHIRT $30, whistleandfluteclothing.com

20 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

BOBO CHOSES RUCKSACK £38.50, scandinavian minimal.co.uk

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BOOKS FOR

BEYOND

EXPLORE THE UNIVERSE WITH OUR PICK OF THE BEST TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE BOOKS, AND DARE TO DREAM OF ESCAPADES FAR, FAR AWAY

ATLAS OF ADVENTURES

Illustrated by Lucy Letherland The premier book of charts, maps and joy, Atlas of Adventures is jam-packed with characterful illustrations to show your children the world. Go dog sledding in Alaska, play some bagpipes in Scotland and steer a gondola in Venice. With little facts to see you from shore to shore, this is learning and exploring in tandem! And truly, the best kind of reading. (Wide Eyed Editions, ÂŁ20)

22 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

BOOKS

Essential reading for the truly committed mini jet-setter

USBORNE CHILDREN’S PICTURE ATLAS

CAFÉ AT THE EDGE OF THE MOON

SNAIL, WHERE ARE YOU?

THE DOG DETECTIVES

THE LITTLE PRINCE

WHERE WILL I GO?

Illustrated by Linda Edwards This classic children’s atlas by Usborne is brimming with the best maps to show your little ones around the world. From Mayan temples in Mexico to albratross in Antarctica, you can explore the four corners of the globe while still tucked up in bed. (Usborne, £8.99)

Zoa Gypsy Perfect for testing your navigational skills, in the fourth of the series, Detective Jack and Deputy Poco Loco have decided to cycle across America. Whilst peddling away their exciting little trip takes them to all the best sites. Based on the author’s own cycling adventures with her two rescue dogs. (Maverick, £6.99)

Francesca Simon Meet Janey: so tired of being told what to do at home, she hops off to the café at the edge of the moon where she can do anything she likes. Perfect for those who are beginning to read alone, Francesca Simon, creator of Horrid Henry, scores another winner. (Orion Books, £4.99)

Antoine De Saint-Expuery Possibly the most beautiful book of the 20th century, The Little Prince will appeal to both you and your mini dreamers alike. Exploring different aspects of human nature, the story follows a little prince who falls to earth from a star and the characters he meets along the way. This one is a real keeper. (Egmont, £14.99)

Tomi Ungerer Where has the snail gone? Is it hiding in a violin’s scroll or wrapped around a pink pig’s tail? Have fun looking for the snail on every page of this brilliant book of hide-and-seek. Everyone will enjoy Tomi Ungerer’s charmingly retro illustrations. Inspiring arty-fun. (Phaidon, £8.95)

Richard Sinclair Practise your rhyming skills with the newest book by Richard Sinclair. Wander around a museum with this father and son duo, and experience stories from all over the world. It’s colourful, it’s funny and it’s just a little bit educational, daring children to dream of adventures all over the globe. (Digital Leaf , £6.99)

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

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MY LITTLE

london BRITISH ACTRESS EMILIA FOX TALKS TO EMMA OLIVER ABOUT HER FAVOURITE CITY SECRETS FOR FAMILIES

24 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

INTERVIEW

London has lots of green spaces to explore

Where do you live in London and why?

I live in Acton, west London, because it is extremely family friendly with lots of things to do with children in the area, a beautiful park and a proper community spirit.

How old is your daughter? And how would you describe her in a couple of words?

My daughter, Rose, is four and is a force of nature. She’s funny, loving and strong.

The Park Club,

Tell us a little about your favourite local spots to take Rose…

Our favourite local hangouts are Acton Park for walks, scootering and swings; The Park Club for swimming and trampolining; Laveli and Angela Malik’s for cakes; The Village Trading Store for toys; the butcher’s on Churchfield Road for chicken sausages and our lovely local Londis for sweets. There’s also a new pancake shop on Churchfield Road where we go to for a treat sometimes.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ICANDY, ISTOCK

We are loving the new season’s Emilia bag by iCandy. How did it make you feel knowing it was inspired by you?

I was thrilled and surprised when iCandy wanted to make an Emilia bag. What an honour. And so lovely to have input in creating a bag with all the pockets and accessories I longed for as a new mum – to maintain some kind of order. I wanted it to look good, too, so that it could be smart for going out and be able to double up as a handbag and baby bag so that you don’t have to carry two bags.

iCandy are supporting The Lullaby Trust with £10 from each Emilia bag going to the charity. As you are the brand ambassador, was it your idea? Laveli,

The idea was suggested to me and I entirely supported it as I think there is something uniting in the act of parents supporting other parents.

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

INTERVIEW

The Bark Club

Maggie & Rose

Did you enjoy ‘playing tourist’ for the day in the Emilia bag London photo shoot?

I loved that the shoot showed off different parts of London and hope that it conveys that the Emilia bag is not only practical but fashionable, too. The bag is suitable for all parents wherever they live, but London is a great city to raise children in. Emilia Fox models iCandy’s new Emilia bag

How is city life with a child?

I’m lucky because I have a garden at home. I spent a lot of my early years in a London house without a garden and remember slightly yearning for the freedom of being able to run about in nature. Luckily London has plenty of parks. There are also so many fun and educational things to do. Taking Rose to the Natural History Museum or the Science Museum is a treat to enjoy in an entirely different way as an adult.

Do you ever worry about living in London with a little one?

I suppose I have the same fears as most parents about not letting my child go out without an adult watching at all times, but I think I would have that parental instinct even if we lived in the middle of the countryside!

On a rainy day, when you’re feeling cooped up, where would you usually head to? When it rains, we go to Maggie & Rose in Chiswick or Gambado indoor play centre.

What is Rose’s favourite place to go?

Rose loves The Bark Club where we take our dog – and we talk to dogs for hours while they are being groomed.

And somewhere that’s a bit further afield? We love Kew Gardens.

Finally, what are your three hot tips for London days out with a young child? If I had to pick just three: Hounslow Urban Farm, feeding ducks in Regent’s Park by the rose garden and The Unicorn Theatre for children. L icandyworld.com 26 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

In partnership with

Home of Thomas & Friends

toys

The Little London Music School The Little London Music School Introducing your child to the joytoof Introducing your child themusic joy of music

Comprehensive, structured & stimulating classically based music classes tailored for children 6 months - 5 years Tel: 07530 459 468 Email: info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com Comprehensive, structured & stimulating classically based music classes tailored for children 6 months - 5 years www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com

Tel: 07530 459 468 Email: info@thelittlelondonmusicschool.com NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE • CHISWICK www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE • CHISWICK

Join Thomas & FriendsTM at a heritage Railway near you. Experience a ride on a real steam engine and take part in Thomas-themed activities.

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Day Out With ThomasTM Thomas the Tank EngineTM. Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2015 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2015 HIT Entertainment Limited.

APR/MAY 2015

| littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

Ducksday rainsuits £45

agenda LITTLE

LIANNE KOLIRIN TELLS US WHAT’S ON IN THE CAPITAL

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

CR EE PY CR AW LIES MO NT H AT GA MB AD O GAMBADO CHELSEA will be hosting a CREEPY CRAWLIES will MONTH this May. Children ct have the chance to intera us dro won and learn about many be creatures. There’ll also stories, face painting and – arts and crafts sessions with a crawly twist! OPEN ALL WEEK. TIMES VARY. N GAMBADO CHELSEA, 7 STATIO COURT, TOWNMEAD ROAD, LONDON SW6 2PY 020 7384 1635 GAMBADO.COM/CLUBS/CHELSEA littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

WHAT’S ON

SUSHI SCHOOL: MINI NINJAS

YO! Sushi’s Mini Ninja classes run at selected branches. Kids spend an hour learning about Japanese food and healthy eating, as well as making plenty of sushi which they then get to eat or take home, together with a certificate and rolling mat. Classes on Thursdays and Saturdays. Admission: £10 per child (must be accompanied by an adult). yosushi.com/parties/sushi-school/kids

BINKY BEAR’S LONDON WALK

Binky Bear books are children’s photographic activity picture books set in real locations. Binky’s London Walk starts at St Martin-in-the-Fields, taking in some of London’s most iconic sights. Let your children lead the way as they hop, skip and jump into a real Binky adventure. Before setting out, go online to order the book or download a map. 01962 736 136 binkybear.co.uk

ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND

An immersive production in celebration of the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s classic novel. Featuring the White Rabbit, Queen of Hearts, Alice,and of course Tweedledum and Tweedledee. Saturday 11 April to Friday 29 May. Admission: child £12.50, adult £18.50. The Vaults Leake Street, London SE1 7NN alice-underground.com

AGAINST CAPTAIN’S ORDERS: A JOURNEY INTO THE UNCHARTED

Against Captain’s Orders invites audiences to cast off into an exciting world of maritime history, derring-do and adventure. The National Maritime Museum is collaborating with Punchdrunk Enrichment to create a theatrical journey for six to 12 year olds and their families. Visitors will become members of a real life crew, working together to navigate their way through this highly adventurous exhibition. Runs from Saturday 28 March until Monday 31 August, from 10am daily. Admission: £19.75. National Maritime Museum Romney Rd, Greenwich, London SE10 9NF 020 8858 4422 rmg.co.uk/againstcaptainsorders

MAGGIE & ROSE KENSINGTON CLUB

Maggie & Rose are now running classes for six months to nine years. They offer term time activities, as well as holiday programmes. Activities include art classes, cooking classes, music classes and ballet classes, plus there’s soft play, a cinema and a Wii. Open Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 5pm. Admission: entry on membership basis. 58 Pembroke Road, London, W8 6NX maggieandrose.com 020 7371 2200

REVAMPED LEGO CITY AREA AT LEGOLAND The LEGO City Driving School is bigger than ever this year with even more childen’s cars, as well as a new lane. The Boating School also gets a new look with more boats and LEGO models featuring surprising animations and audio effects. Plus there’s plenty more to keep the family entertained including Pirate Shores, DUPLO Valley, Atlantis Submarine Voyage and Miniland. Open daily, though times vary on different days – see website for details. Admission: prices vary, see website. Legoland Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 4AY 0871 222 2001 | legoland.co.uk

30 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

WORLD’S MOST COMPLETE STEGOSAURUS

See the first complete dinosaur specimen to go on display at the Natural History Museum in nearly 100 years. The 150-million-year-old Stegosaurus stenops is 560cm long and 290cm tall. With over 300 bones, the skeleton was found almost complete in the USA 11 years ago. Open daily from 10am to 5.50pm. Admission: free. Natural History Museum Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD 020 7942 5000 nhm.ac.uk

WHAT’S ON

GO APE TREE TOP JUNIOR If you thought your kids were too young to tackle high ropes and swing from trees then think again. Aimed at six to 12 year olds, Go Ape’s Tree Top Junior is all about having fun and being adventurous. Have no fear, the safety systems mean participants stay attached the whole time. Tree Top Junior is only available at certain Go Ape centres, including: Go Ape Crawley Tilgate Park, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 5PQ Go Ape Black Park Black Park Road, Wexham, SL3 6DS Admission: £18. 033 3331 7223 | goape.co.uk

EDDIE CATZ

There is plenty for children of all ages at Eddie Catz in Putney and Wimbledon. Besides the fun stuff to play on, there’s a padded toddler-only soft play area, bouncy chairs, a dressing up area, regular classes and everything you need for a fun and fuss-free day out. Admission: prices depend on the height of the child and session time. Putney, First Floor, 68-70 Putney High Street, London SW15 1SF Monday to Saturday 9.30am to 6pm, Sundays 10am to 6pm. Wimbledon, 42 Station Road, Merton, London SW19 2LP Monday to Sunday 9.30am to 6pm. 020 3475 5268 eddiecatz.com

SADLER’S WELLS FAMILY WEEKEND

A rich visual piece of dance theatre for families, that tells the poignant tale of one small creature’s struggle to preserve a world in danger of being lost. Good Friday and Saturday 4 April. Admission: see website for details. Sadler’s Wells Rosebery Avenue, London, EC1R 0844 412 4300 sadlerswells.com

BACKSTAGE TOUR AT THE UNICORN THEATRE

Explore what’s happening backstage at London’s fabulous children’s theatre and find out what really goes into making a play. Children aged seven and over – plus interested adults – are invited to learn about some of the magic that goes into producing a successful play on a handful of hour-long guided tours. Saturday 28 March and 25 April at 12pm. Admission: £3. Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 unicorntheatre.com

THE PARTY: 500 YEARS OF HAMPTON COURT PALACE

This never-been-seen-before event, will race through the 500 year history of the palace finishing with a firework display. Good Friday (3 April) to Easter Sunday (5 April), 6.30pm to 9.15pm. Admission: £10 child, £22 adult. Hampton Court Palace Surrey, KT8 9AU 0844 482 7777 hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace

THE TWITS

Mischievously adapted from one of Roald Dahl’s most loved books, Enda Walsh turns the The Twits upside down. Runs from Tuesday 7 April to Sunday 31 May. Performance times vary. Admission: £12 to £35. Royal Court Theatre Sloane Square, London SW1W 8AS 020 7565 5000 royalcourttheatre.com

OPERATION MAGIC CARPET

Nomi lives in London but dreams about Baghdad, where her parents are from. One night a genie appears and Nomi is swept away on a magic carpet to Baghdad. Runs from 3 April to Sunday 24 May. Admission: £14.50. Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 polkatheatre.com

DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS MAGICAL ICE FESTIVAL

Prepare to be whisked away into the wintery world of Disney’s Frozen with this story full of action, adventure, magic and unforgettable characters. Thursday 23 to Sunday 26 April. See website performance times. Admission: £22.25 to £51.75. The SSE Arena Arena Square, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0AA 0844 815 0815 ssearena.co.uk

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

WHAT’S ON

MESSY PLAY AT THE LIBRARY

Under fives are invited to come along and get messy at these regular arty sessions held at the Artizan Street Library and Community Centre. Thursday 28 May, 10.30am to 11.30am. Admission: free. Shoe Lane Library Hill House, Little New Street, London EC4A 3JR 020 7583 7178 cityof london.gov.uk

COVENT GARDEN MAY FAYRE & PUPPET FESTIVAL As the hub for London street entertainers Covent Garden really comes to life for its annual May Fayre and Puppet Festival, with Punch and Judy Professors from all over the country and abroad. Sunday 10 May, 10.30am to 5.30pm. Admission: free. In the garden of St Paul’s Church Bedford Street, London, WC2E 9ED alternativearts.co.uk

SEA DRAGON KINGDOM

Little Londoners will love exploring the amazing and diverse collection of mystical sea creatures included in SEA LIFE’s brand new Sea Dragon Kingdom zone. Open seven days a week from 10am. Admission: £13.52 child, £18.36 adult. SEA LIFE London Aquarium County Hall, London, SE1 7PB 0871 663 1678 sealife.co.uk/london

LONDON FIRE BRIGADE MUSEUEM The museum houses one of the most comprehensive collections of firefighting equipment and memorabilia in Britain. Family visits are self-guided, commencing at 10.30am and 2pm. Children are provided with their own explorer pack, which includes a guide and activities relevant to each section of the museum. Plus, the tour is followed by an opportunity for the children to try on uniforms. Guided tours are available Monday to Friday, starting at 10.30am or 2pm, and last for approximately one hour. Booking is essential. Admission: £3 children, £5 adults. Winchester House 94a Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 0EG 020 8555 1200 | london-fire.gov.uk

CANALWAY CAVALCADE

Take the kids down to see the many colourful narrowboats adorned with flowers and bunting for this annual celebration. The three-day party offers varied attractions for little ones, including shows, music and boat trips. Visitors will also find stalls, competitions, Morris dancers, food and plenty of real ale for grown-ups too. Saturday 2 May to Bank Holiday Monday (4 May). Times on website. Admission: free, though there may be a small charge for various activities. Little Venice Paddington, London W9 07979 676461 waterways.org.uk

ARCELORMITTAL ORBIT

Feel the ground disappear as you make the 80 metre journey by lift to the top viewing platform of the ArcelorMittal Orbit where you will experience a show-stopping panorama. At 114.5 metres high, it gives visitors spectacular views of over 20 miles across London. From two viewing galleries, the capital’s best sites can be seen like never before. Admission: is by timed entry. Opening hours are between 10am and 6pm. Admission: tickets start from £5.95 for children and £11.95 for adults. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Stratford, E20 2SS 033 3800 8099 arcelormittalorbit.com

TOWER BRIDGE EXHIBITION Tower Bridge Exhibition invites visitors to step inside the most famous bridge in the world and explore its iconic structure, current exhibitions and magnificent Victorian Engine Rooms. Visitors can discover how and why the Bridge came into existence through films and animations in the towers, before moving to the Bridge’s high-level walkways, 42 metres above the River Thames. Open daily, 10am to 5.30pm. Admission: £3.90 child, £9 adult and under-fives go free. Tower Bridge Exhibition Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 2UP 020 7403 3761 | towerbridge.org.uk

32 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

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littlelondonmagazine.co.uk |

APR/MAY 2015 33

APR/MAY 2015

| littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

FI N D

SHAUN AND THE FLOCK SPRING INTO KEW GARDENS Aardman’s world famous sheep is flocking to Kew Gardens. Follow Timmy on the Spring Lamb Trail or see how the sound effects for the Shaun The Sheep movie were created with The Vegetable Orchestra – as well as lots of other fun and games. Saturday 28 March to Sunday 12 April. Event times vary, see website for details. Admission: under 16s go free, adults £15. Kew Gardens Kew, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 3AB 020 8332 5655 | kew.org

KENSINGTON PALACE

Discover a trail through the palace gardens that will prepare you to meet the royal court inside the palace. Good Friday (3 April) to Easter Monday (6 April), 10am to 6pm. Admission: children free, adults £17.50. Kensington Palace Kensington Gardens, London, W8 4PX 0844 482 7777 hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace/

PINOCCHIO – EASTER PANTO!

Join the fun at Enfield’s Dugdale Centre for the adventure of a lifetime for one famous puppet – Pinocchio! Wednesday 25 March to Sunday 12 April. See website for details. Admission: £11.50. Dugdale Centre 39 London Road, Enfield, EN2 6DS 020 8807 6680 dugdalecentre.co.uk

EASTER ART FUN

Perfect for little artists aged over three, at the Horniman Museum and Gardens you can make your own Easter bunny messenger, or have a go at a pecking hen or bumble bee headdress. Go au naturel by creating a leafy plant mask or pop along to a mini tree dressing sessions. Activities will run each day from 11am to 2.45pm between Monday 30 March and Friday 10 April. Admission: free. Horniman Museum and Gardens 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ 020 8699 1872 horniman.ac.uk

YOU

EAST R E EV E N R TS

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA AT WILLOWS FARM

Visit the Easter Garden to take part in Willows’ Egg Hunt and join in the Bunny Hunts around the farm with chocolate treats for all children who take part. Don’t miss the pig racing, goat milking and Tristan the runaway tractor! Saturday 28 March to Sunday 19 April, 10am to 5.30pm. Admission: Child £11.50, adult £10.50. Willows Activity Farm Coursers Road, London Colney, Hertfordshire AL4 0PF 0870 129 9718 willowsactivityfarm.com

EGG-STRAVAGANZA DAY

Celebrate Easter at Battersea Park Children’s Zoo. The egg display includes eggs from the smallest up to the biggest laid at the Zoo, plus you can also meet a chicken, drop in at story time, guess how many eggs are in the basket or design your own Easter egg. The family-run attraction is home to a variety of animals, from giant rabbits to miniature Shetland ponies. Activites run on Tuesday 7 April, 10am to 5.30pm. Activity times vary, see website for details. Admission: children £6.50, adults £8.75 and under twos go free. Battersea Park London SW11 4NJ batterseaparkzoo.co.uk 020 7924 5826

EASTER HOLIDAYS AT DISCOVER

First, explore the Story Trail, Garden and interactive exhibition, Once There Was... The Wonderful World of Oliver Jeffers, then join Discover’s Story Builder for stories by your favourite authors and illustrators. Don’t miss the return of the Where’s Wally? Weekend, too. Friday 3 to Thursday 6 September. Admission: children and adults £5, and under twos go free. Discover - Children’s Story Centre 383-387 High Street, Stratford, London E15 4QZ 020 8536 5555 discover.org.uk

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

DADDY COOL

TOYELLA’S HEAD HONCHO AND DADOF-THREE CARL SHAW TALKS TO REBECCA MOORE ABOUT WHY CHILDREN’S TOYS MAKE HIM TICK

FATHERHOOD

After spending 10 years as a graphic designer, followed by 15 years running a web design company, to say Carl Shaw has an eye for detail is an understatement. But it was in 2009 that Carl’s love of detail really took off. His wife, Clare, showed him a magazine cutting of a Bilibo – for those not yet fluent in Swiss toys, it’s an ingenious multifunctional product promising hours of play – and he wanted a couple for the kids. He finally found the toy online, but tentatively entered his card details with a considerable level of uncertainty. “I felt there had to be a better outlet for shopping for family toys. I didn’t want your typical plastic merchandise, I wanted somewhere I could enjoy browsing and feel confident to buy from.” Carl soon came to the conclusion that he was on a mission impossible, so set up his online toy shopping

As a child, Carl was never far away from LEGO bricks. “It was an age when the pieces were less sophisticated and results relied on children pushing their creative and imaginative boundaries.” Toyella introduced something similar to the UK called Plus-Plus. It has a single piece design and, like LEGO, originates from Denmark. And when it comes to playing as a family, the Shaws are suckers for a card game. “We have a pairs matching game called Roundabout which Toyella sourced from Germany. The imagery is really cool and witty,” says Carl. “It always amazes me how good the kids are at remembering the positions of

PHOTOGRAPHY: LAURA MOTT PHOTOGRAPHY

“I AIM TO REINVENT HOW THE TOY INDUSTRY WORKS!” emporium Toyella (toyella.com), naming the company after his fi rst child, Ella. Nowadays Carl’s work consists of a lot of playing from his office and home in Worcestershire. All within good reason though. “These toys need assessing, purchasing, pricing, photographing, loading to the website, marketing, suitable packaging and I’m still personally involved in the strategy for each of these steps.” And of course his three offspring – Ella, 12, Charlie, nine, and Ollie, six – make the perfect toy testers. “Selecting toys for our range is a joy. It’s like shopping and, unlike many men, I actually like shopping,” laughs Carl. “When you become a parent you’re essentially re-exposed to child’s play after a 20-year gap. My re-introduction to toys through my children was a depressing experience until Toyella came along”.

pieces. It reminds you how children’s brains are primed for soaking up information.” Last year Carl also launched Ace Media (ace.media). “We have created an online service that helps exchange news between PR experts, the media and companies, like Toyella, who want to get their message out there,” explains Carl. But his latest venture is a toy distribution company, Four Toys (four.toys). “Still in its early days, Four Toys adopts the same principles as Toyella except it supplies other toy shops and children’s boutiques. Creating a wider market and brand awareness for these great toy brands will ultimately benefit everyone,” Carl highlights. “I aim to reinvent how the toy industry works!” And on that note, a dad that loves toys as much as kids do is, to me, the definition of “Daddy Cool”. L

FEATURE

ONE

Love SUMMER LITCHFIELD ASKS WHY THERE IS A GROWING STIGMA AROUND CHOOSING TO HAVE AN ONLY CHILD

Firstly I have to make something very clear. I have nothing but complete and utter respect for anyone who has two, three, four or more children. How they do it, god only knows, and I would never, for a second, question their intentions. Pretty soon after we had our daughter, as smitten as we were, my husband and I decided that one child would do us just fine. Before, even. Having both grown up as only children (I have a brother who has lived in the US since he was small) we are, I guess, more used to our own space than some. We were happy playing on our own, probably spent more time around adults and I don’t think either of us particularly hankered after having ever-present siblings around. If, as the phrase goes: ‘one is fun but two is a zoo’, why is there such a stigma around choosing to have an only child? I was, and still am, amazed at the amount of

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

FEATURE

AN ONLY CHILD CAN FLOURISH WITH YOUR UNDIVIDED ATTENTION 40 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

Summer and daughter Lily

she wrote a piece for current affairs magazine The Atlantic a couple of years ago. It suggested having more than one child could hinder a (female) writer’s creativity, but in her most recent book One and Only she makes some good points: “The greatest armour against loneliness is to learn how to be less lonely when you are by yourself,” she says. “[Only children] tend to absorb more mature lessons about relationships in terms of responsibility, nurturing and generosity”. Editor in chief of Mr & Mrs Smith, Juliet Kinsman, puts the essence of her own ‘single child happiness’ down to one main advantage: the ability to travel. “By only having one child we have been able to see and do so much that we just wouldn’t be able to do as a family of four. Hotel rooms wouldn’t be big enough and flights certainly couldn’t stretch regularly to another person. I do not miss the sleepless nights or having to saddle up with a million different bottles, toys and tupperware containers for a trip to the park. I feel like my seven-year-old daughter is my buddy now who I have great adventures with and who has learned to be independent and a great conversationalist, thanks to being an only child, for sure.”

Fashion advertising director, and mother to nine-year-old Nat, Susannah Coe, also raves about the benefits. “Nat is used to grown-up company, he is happy chatting to our friends, enjoys a nice meal out and knows how to behave in a restaurant – something I’m sure is down to the fact that he’s an only child.” And in terms of education, teacher and phonics expert Iona Hewitt agrees that being able to focus your attention on one child can have its benefits: “Homework or simply reading in the evenings is such a vital part of a child’s education but can be pretty impossible with other siblings around. With one child, you can focus on a project together and create something amazing.” What of the whole spoilt, selfish, over-indulged business? The flip side of this is that only children can be more confident, secure and do better at school than the average child from a bigger family. But, to be honest, to me it’s not about facts and figures it’s about saying: “each to their own”. So, as property prices rise and we are beginning to get our independence back as a couple, one is the magic number for us, if it’s all the same to you. L

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

surprised – and sometimes verging on appalled – looks I am greeted with (from both strangers and friends) who are taken aback by the idea that, despite our solo backgrounds, we’re totally happy with one. “But that doesn’t seem fair on the child”; “Won’t they be lonely?”; “Oh… but it’s so sweet to see them playing together”. And, the most extraordinary of all: “But what if… something happens”. If anything did happen to our daughter, even if we had another child or two, I can say, without any doubt, that the devastating loss would be no different, no less affecting. I started later than some, having Lily the day before my 40th birthday – but luckily for me it’s not my age that is the deciding factor against having more children. Now that she’s three I am even more sure of the pros versus the cons. Not that I feel the need to ‘fight my case’ but there is, of course, the obvious plus of it being more economically doable. Then there’s the fact that we only have to go through the more restrictive phases to do with sleep, feeding, weaning, potty training, and the like, once. But there are other ways that I feel only children – and their parents – can benefit. Sure there’s the danger of over-focusing on your child but there’s also the argument that they can flourish by having your undivided attention. In my experience it’s no bad thing that an only child is generally more able to play, and just be, on their own; not to mention the blissful lack of bickering. And there’s a great deal of satisfaction to be had in taking one child along to an ageappropriate event without having to drag older or younger brothers and sisters (I’ve learnt, from attempting to do the same with friends who have more kids). American writer and journalist Lauren Sandler faced stiff criticism from Zadie Smith (mother of two), and others, when

travel in style PHOTOGRAPHY Michael Rolt

STYLING Becky Seager

HAIR AND MAKE UP Rachel Jones

This page Lexie wears Samira Tee and Samira Skirt, Mini Preen.

This page George wears Rochester Rain Jacket, Penfield. Fisherman Rib MoulinĂŠ Wool Cashmere Sweater, Burberry. Caped Bandit Jeans, Billybandit at Childrensalon. Caminito Shoes, at Amaia Kids.

Th is page Lexie wears The Sandringham Heritage Trench Coat, Burberry. Red Dress, Mini Preen. Ribbed Grey Tights, Condor at Amaia Kids. Ballet Shoes, Step2wo at Selfridges. Lily wears Denim Dress, Lee Jeans. Ribbed Red Tights, Condor at Amaia Kids. Leather Trainer, Ash Shoes at My Fashion Tribu. Bespoke Giant Bear, Steiff. George wears Spotted Blue Polo Shirt, Scotch Shrunk. Navy Blue and White Check Blazer, Billybandit at Childrensalon. Caped Bandit Jeans, Billybandit at Childrensalon. Sonny Classic Brogues, Step2wo at Selfridges.

This page Lexie wears Samira Tee and Samira Skirt, Mini Preen. George wears Red and Navy Striped Cotton Polo Shirt, Ralph Lauren. Lily wears Double Collar Blouse, Hucklebones at Little Concept. Tye & Dye Short Dungarees, Little Remix at Smallable.

Th is page Lily wears Peach Will Military Jacket, Stella McCartney. Jeans, Hugo Boss. Leather Trainer, Ash Footwear at My Fashion Tribu.

STOCKISTS Condor at amaiakids.co.uk Ash Footwear at myfashiontribu.com Burberry Burberry.com Billybandit at childrensalon.com Dr Martens drmartens.com Lee Jeans lee.com Little Concept littleconcept.com Hucklebones hucklebones.co.uk Hugo Boss hugoboss.com Mini Preen preenbythorntonbregazzi. com My Fashion Tribu myfashiontribu.com Penfield penfield.com Selfridges selfridges.com Smallable smallable.com Stella McCartney Kids stellamccartney.com Steiff steiff.com Step2wo step2wo.com Ralph Lauren ralphlauren.co.uk

This page Lexie wears Ettie Hearts Dress, Stella McCartney at Smallable. Ribbed Red Tights, Condor at Amaia Kids. Blip Kids Boot Red, Dr Martens. The Heritage Trench Coat, Burberry. George wears Fisherman Rib MoulinĂŠ Wool Cashmere Sweater, Burberry. Caped Bandit Jeans, Billybandit at Childrensalon. Caminito Shoes, at Amaia Kids. MODEL AGENCIES: BRUCE AND BROWN, GRACE AND GALOR, URBAN ANGELS MODELS: GEORGE, LEXIE AND LILY LOCATION: THE LONDON BUS MUSEUM

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Little Luxuries COLUMNIST OLIVIA FALCON UNEARTHS LONDON’S MOST DESIRABLE ESSENTIALS

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG, SHUTTERSTOCK

If taking your child to the hairdressers is akin to trying to herd the Beast of Bodmin into a cage, then maybe it’s time to consider the new Mini Me haircutting service at Hari’s (from £90, harissalon.com). A far more civilised take on juvenile grooming, you get to have a fuss-free cut while junior is preened and entertained – my daughters went for hippy plaits with feathers and sparkly nail polish after their trim. Speaking of hair, I also must mention Verity Jones (verityjoneslondon.com). The Farrow and Ball of hair clips (from £2) they have the prettiest palette of colours. Having tried countless other brands, these clips and bows have some real staying power. It’s usually around this time of year that I start to panic about how we’re going to fi ll the endless weeks of the summer holidays. Th is year we’ve decided to swap our usual bucket and spade jaunt to Norfolk with a trip to the fabulous new Châlet Zeno, a three bedroom suite (sleeps up to eight) attached to the Rosa Alpina hotel perched high up in the Italian Dolomites. The chalet has an outdoor hot tub with stunning mountain views and a crackling log fi re to snuggle around at night.

Clockwise from left: Hari’s; Aromatherapy Associates; Verity Jones bows

Grown-ups can enjoy the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant and the spa – the alpine herb muscle relief is just the ticket after a day’s hiking – while family excursions include fossil hunting, mountain barbecues, biking and walks through wild flower meadows. Happily, the hotel provides off-road buggies for when little legs get tired. Châlet Zeno costs €6,500 per night (including breakfast, tea and spa access – rosalpina.it). Last week was a disaster. My daughter fell down our front steps and was rushed to A&E. The cat went missing only to be discovered 24 hours later locked in a neighbour’s garage. And my husband had man flu. For times when the dramas never seem to end, head to Châlet Zeno is the perfect Italian getaway

Aromatherapy Associates Boutique in Knightsbridge (aromatherapyassociates.com). The inner-strength body treatment (£120) is an emotionally fortifying massage, using rose, frankincense and geranium oils. Divine. I’ve recently become re-acquainted with my sofa and the Sunday papers, thanks to Blossom Kidz, a new weekend babysitting service in Maida Vale (from £10 an hour, blossomkidz.com). Geared towards two to seven year olds, the centre is based in a wonderfully well-equipped nursery school and offers seasonal activities like kite making and flower pressing and even a Friday evening cinema club with beds, allowing parents to relax and steal a few hours for themselves at the weekend. Dare I say it, I almost feel ready to spring into spring. L

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

Forest School

Located on the edge of Epping Forest, our 1,300 boys and girls are aged 4-18.

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PARTY

LITTLE BEVAN, EDDIE JUDD PHOTOGRAPHY, STYLIST: MICHELLE PIERRE CARR, PAINSHILL PARK

Follow Little. Bevan’s style,and. co-ordinate your mini helpers at littlebevan.co.uk

We simply adore Little Bevan, their garments are made individually for the special occasion from their workshop in Pimlico

LOVE is in the air

WHETHER YOU’RE WALKING DOWN THE AISLE OR SIMPLY CELEBRATING THE SUNSHINE, DRESS IN STYLE

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

PARTY

Benjamin Linen Set £54.95, heritagechristening.com

Hera Band £18, atticusandgilda.co.uk

Tallulah Cape £350, atticusandgilda.co.uk Hair Wreath, £35, Day Dress £105, Sparkly Plimsolls, £25 ilovegorgeous.co.uk Lace Pink Dress £25, rubiandboris.com

Pink Sandals £30, shooshoosuk.com Liberty Floral Bow Tie £28.50, jcrew.com Floral Hair Clip £15, ralphlauren.co.uk

Cherry Dress £35, totolondon.co.uk

Anniel Ballerinas £95, myfashiontribu.com

54 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

Four Piece Bow Tie Set £50, mamasandpapas.com

Seersucker and Lace Dress £75, ralphlauren.co.uk

PARTY

Edward Knickerbockers in 100% silk £65, suehillhandknits.co.uk

Get the size you need with Sue Hill’s bespoke service at no extra cost Boys Collar Shirt – Ventsy £36, olivierbaby.com

Fun & Fun Bermuda Shorts £44, childrensalon.com

All That Glitters Ballet Pumps £34, gigibrooks.com

Daisy Head Dress £15, ilovegorgeous.co.uk Confetti Bag £39, ilovegorgeous.co.uk

Floral Headband £6, mamasandpapas.com

Blue and White Floral Dress £92, isabelgarreton.com

Navy T-bar Shoes £36, startriteshoes.com

Ash Vicky Lace Off Trainer £83, myfashiontribu.com

JUST TO SAY… THANK YOU TO YOUR LITTLE HELPERS

Buttercup Pointelle Cardigan £57.50, hucklebones.co.uk

2 3 1. Zozo Charm Silver Bracelet £100, patrickmavros.com 2. Elephant 104 Silver

Suzanne Dress £165, littleeglantine.com

Cufflinks £140, patrickmavros.com 3. Little Ella Ballet Shoe

Necklace £10, johnlewis.co.uk 4. Personalised Liberty Bracelet £29, mercimaman.com

Clarence Booties £44.90, littleeglantine.com

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

GET

crafty MYBABA.COM’S LEONORA BAMFORD AND NANNY ANITA GET CREATIVE WITH FAMILY HOLIDAY TIME

We always look forward to Easter as it’s great time of year for crafts. Anita and I have been having a ball dreaming up all sorts of activities. With the holidays upon us, I’ve been thinking of travel, and how to make life easier with little ones in tow. Whether you’re flying, driving, sailing or walking this holiday, don’t forget to relax and to enjoy this special time with your children, especially on Mother’s Day!

I N I NG B

This Easter craft is super easy, travel friendly and is so much fun

TO MAKE YOUR LITTLE DUCKS YOU WILL NEED: Six stones Paint Black marker pens Paintbrushes

These personalised mini Pink Lining Travel Bags are my children’s most prized possessions when we go away. I let them fi ll their own, with a few toys and snacks, and they love carrying them.

56 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

FIVE LITTLE DUCKLINGS

HOW TO MAKE: Before painting your stones give them a wash to remove any dirt. Paint the stones with a few coats, remembering to let them dry in between – I painted five of the stones yellow for the ducklings and one white for the Mummy duck. Next, use your marker pens to draw on the

faces and then write the numbers one to five on the little ducklings. Th is mini activity is great for number recognition. We sing Five Little Ducks together and when one of the ducks doesn’t come back we have to find the correctly numbered duck and subtract him from the group. THIS ACTIVITY MAY HELP WITH: Familiarisation of songs Recognition of numbers Understanding of quantities

With April showers upon us, stand out with homemade umbrellas. WHAT YOU’LL NEED: Child-sized nylon umbrella Fabric paint in a few colours, this way it won’t run when wet Paintbrushes This is a great craft for imagination. Let younger children go freestyle and for the older ones, I would suggest designing their umbrella on paper first. There are unlimited options, from stars and stripes to hearts, letters and numbers. Leave the umbrellas open over night to dry, before closing or using them.

HOMEMADE UMBRELLAS

CREATE

Trunki Travel Pillows

I love the Trunki travel accessories and we never go far without this supportive neck cushion. It has a clever clip so your little one can attach their favourite blanket for the journey.

TR AVEL BITES My daughter and I made these by chance while playing with ingredients in the kitchen. They give the perfect boost of energy when you need a snack on the run. Ingredients • 1 cup of oats • 1/4 cup honey or other substitute • 1/4 cup nut butter (we’re fans of peanut) • 3 tablespoons of mixed seeds, crushed • You can add anything else you like, from raisins and dates, to vanilla and ginger Method Mix the ingredients together, shape into bites and pop in the fridge. I like to store them in a jam jar in the fridge and in a little zip lock bag when we are travelling.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

NANNY ANITA’S WORLD SNAP Th is activity is good for all ages. For younger children, a simple game of snap and for the older ones, added general knowledge to help with worldly news.

YOU WILL NEED: Record cards Glue Scissors Pens

HOW TO MAKE:

Search on the internet for pictures of famous landmarks, print them and cut them out (you will need to print and cut out duplicates for snap). Stick one to a card and then add some general knowledge. You can brand and decorate the back of the cards to make it even more fun.

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

STREET STYLE

PHOTOGRAPHY Helen Marsden STYLING Kellie Daggett HAIR AND MAKE UP Claire Portman MODEL Rhianna @ Urban Angels

Left: Indie Red Belt, £37, Stella McCartney Kids. Grace Dress, £84, Little Remix. Lane Jacket, £95, Little Remix. Socks, £5.99, H&M. Trainers, £26.99, Converse. Hat, £30, Lucky Seven. This page: Black Tee, £10, River Island. Star Jumper, £7.99, H&M. Star necklace, £1.99, H&M. Ring, model’s own.

Aloha T-shirt, £45, Stella McCartney Kids. Grey Hoodie, £16, River Island. Leopard Skirt, £9.99, H&M. Black Shoes, £50, Dr Martens. Stripe Knee Socks, £7.99, H&M. Hat, £30, Lucky Seven.

Check Shirt, £14, River Island. Miller Shirt, £69, Stella McCartney Kids. Mini Skater Skirt, £52, Little Remix. Leopard Hat, £7.99, H&M. Socks, £8, Marks & Spencer. Trainers, £24.99, Nike.

Randy Dungarees, £101, Stella McCartney Kids. Lucky NY Tee, £10, River Island. Socks, £8, Marks & Spencer. Shoes, £50, Dr Martens. Necklace, £27, Tatty Devine. Gold Necklace, £2.99, H&M. Sweatband, £3, American Apparel.

Willow Reversible Bomber, £91, Stella McCartney Kids. Grey Dress, £84, Little Remix. Leopard Leggings, £5.99, H&M. Trainers, £26.99, Converse. Bag, £4.99, H&M.

STOCKISTS American Apparel americanapparel.co.uk Dr Martens drmartens.com/uk H&M hm.com/gb Little Remix designersremix.com/eu Lucky Seven luckysevencaps.com Marks & Spencer marksandspencer.com Nike nike.com/gb Office office.co.uk River Island riverisland.com Stella McCartney Kids stellamccartney.com Tatty Devine tattydevine.com

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DEVELOPMENT

LEVEL

Playing field GENDER STEREOTYPING IS SEEPING INTO OUR OFFSPRING, ON AND OFF THE PITCH, SAYS BECKY DICKINSON

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

and now wants to play every week, as long Since having a daughter, I have reluctantly as I bring enough snacks. conceded that girls may be slightly more The only disappointment was that in a sea genetically predisposed to certain things of muddy five year olds, there was only one than boys. My daughter, Lucia, three, has girl on the pitch. I naively assumed things an obsession with dolls that my son, Joe, had progressed since my own less-thanfive, never displayed – and it’s not because enlightened school days, when boys I’ve encouraged her to play with them, it’s played football and girls played recorder. just the way it’s turned out. Apparently not. My daughter also has a worrying I didn’t sign Joe up to football because inclination for pink, which I do my best to he’s a boy. And if he shows any flair for it, I suppress because I want to avoid certainly won’t put it down to the balls encouraging stereotyped notions about boys between his legs. I signed him up because and girls. Apparently I’m not alone there, with the majority of parents rebelling Are social against gender-specific colours for stereotypes still their children’s clothes. A recent holding girls back? survey by the childrenswear subscription service, Box Upon a Time (boxuponatime.co.uk), showed that a staggering 82% of parents like blue clothing on girls and 47% like pink on boys. In response to these findings Dr Amanda Gummer, child psychologist and founder of Fundamentally Children, an organisation dedicated to helping children develop skills through play, says, “Studies show that adults treat children differently when they’re dressed in gender-stereotyped clothing, so the move towards less gender-stereotyping in clothes and other areas of children’s lives is to be welcomed”. Like most kids, Joe and Lucia have energy to burn, and like most mums I’m happy for them to burn it by any kids need fresh air and exercise. I’m not a available means (preferably cheap and football fan and don’t support a team. But if harmless ones). So this term, Joe joined the an activity helps develop healthy, confident football club at his school. And like a proper and happy kids who know how to play as soccer mum I went along to support him. part of a team, I’m a fan. Joe may not be a budding David Beckham So why aren’t girls benefiting from these – he wore his shin pads outside his socks opportunities too? Because Hello Kitty and I’m not sure he knew which goal he was don’t make football kits? Despite the success supposed to be aiming at – but he loved it of the England women’s national football team – a recent fi xture at Wembley saw the women’s team sell more tickets than their male counterparts for the fi rst time – most of us couldn’t even name a famous female footballer? Presumably, there would be an uproar if schools were to send girls to needlework classes, and boys to woodwork lessons, so why is it acceptable to herd girls and boys into different sports? Yet by the time sport separation happens much of the damage has already been done. The seeds of stereotype have already been sown and are often in full bloom. I am

THIS HAS LITTLE TO DO WITH GENETIC MAKE-UP, AND EVERYTHING TO DO WITH SOCIAL SHACKLES 66 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

amazed at the number of mums who pack their pre-school daughters off to ballet lessons, simply because they’re girls. I don’t dispute that ballet has value as an art form and discipline, what disturbs me are all the inextricable connotations concerning appearance, dressing up and conforming to a certain (potentially dangerous) body type. From the moment they can pick up a hairbrush, girls are drip-fed messages about what it is to be a girl – that is, clean and pink and pretty. Th is has little to do with genetic make-up, and everything to do with social shackles and adult attitudes. At my son’s after-school football club, girls are as welcome to join as boys. Yet they don’t. I asked Joe why not. “Because girls don’t like getting dirty,” he replied. Sadly, at five years old, I think he may be unwittingly close to the mark. What’s the point of equal opportunities, and allowing girls to join football clubs, if they are then shooed off to ballet without further question? And how many girls carry on with ballet past primary school, compared to the number of boys that still play football in their twenties and beyond? Of course, not all girls will enjoy football, just as it won’t appeal to all boys, but we owe it to our daughters to let them find out for themselves. Girls may be allowed to wear trousers to school, but the real world is far from a level playing field. Yes, we have a lot to thank feminism for, but women still have much to fight against – body issues, domestic abuse and the gender pay gap for starters. I’m not suggesting that getting five-yearold girls onto the football pitch will redress all these issues, but it may be a micro step in the right direction. It may help girls realise that ‘being pretty’ isn’t what it’s all about. It may give them the confidence to realise they can be as good as the boys in other areas of life too. And it may help boys grow into men who realise the same. Fortunately, Lucia, despite her penchant for pink, is showing promise. “When I’m big, I want to play football,” she said, after watching her brother slide around in the mud. I just hope she feels the same way in a few years’ time. And I hope she shows the boys how to do it. One thing’s for sure, I won’t be buying her a pink tutu – not unless she wants to wear it on the pitch. L

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, SHUTTERSTOCK

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APR/MAY 2015 67

Kaleidoscope House, created in 2001

There is a magical charm to anything made in miniature, and dolls’ houses encapsulate this sentiment beautifully. Not only do they conjure up memories of happy hours spent day-dreaming of a grown-up house of your own, they also allow the imagination to run wild. The Small Stories exhibition at the V&A Museum of Childhood has selected 12 dolls’ houses to illustrate what these examples can tell us about the era they come from and their inhabitants and owners. In the 18th century, dolls’ houses were known as ‘baby houses’ and were custom-made pieces of cabinetry, decorated in exquisite style. Far from being toys, they were for adults, intended as a display cabinet for miniature objects from around the world, like Chinese porcelain. “In the Victorian era, factories were able to manufacture tin and wooden furniture for dolls’ houses, and as a result they became an essential toy for any self-respecting middle-class nursery,” explains Alice Sage, curator of the exhibition. It was also around this time that they started to be linked to a girl’s education, teaching essential lessons

Life in

1930s. Yet it was made by a painter who lived in a Georgian cottage in Hampstead. She was inspired by the new modernist style of architecture that was springing up in London, so she made the house she would have loved to live in, complete with Bauhaus furniture, lots of chrome and leopard print, and even glass walls. The only house in the exhibition that isn’t English is the fabulous Kaleidoscope House, which was made in 2001 by conceptual artist and photographer Laurie Simmons and architect Peter Wheelwright, and produced in limited numbers. “Despite the brightly coloured walls that slide around so you are able to change the colours of the house, this is a very serious dolls’ house,” remarks Alice. “There is hardly any furniture and definitely no knick-knacks!” The creators intended to make a dolls’ house fit for the 21st century, and commissioned leading artists like Cindy Sherman to make a set of miniature artworks and sculptures to go inside the house. Harking back to the Victorian era of using dolls’ houses as an educational tool, the idea was that children could curate the Kaleidoscope House like a mini art gallery.

MINIATURE KATE FINNEY EXPLORES THE STORIES BEHIND SOME OF THE UK’S FAVOURITE DOLLS’ HOUSES

Wilderness Dreams by Orly Orbach

68 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

like how to make curtains, clean clothes and care for linen. Ever since they’ve been created, dolls’ houses have always been a vehicle for expressing our personalities. “There’s always been a sense of aspiration,” says Alice. “It’s about being able to have the house of your dreams that you can’t have in real life.” One of my favourite dolls’ houses is Whiteladies, a modernist villa from the

Room With a View by Nancy Edwards

If a Budgie Dreamed of Being a Magpie by Bethan Wood

PHOTOGRAPHY: V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD

FEATURE

With everything from country mansions to suburban villas, newly-build council estates and high-rise apartments, the show also has a contemporary element with a new art installation called Dream Houses featuring wooden boxes customised by 20 contemporary designers who were asked to create their dream rooms. Whether aspirational, fantastical, whimsical, technological or practical, the results are fascinating windows into the imaginations of the designers. No one volunteering to design a kitchen, which perhaps reflects an ideal scenario of endless take aways and eating out! It’s rare to find an exhibition that caters to children and adults alike, and there truly is something for everyone here. In a wonderful addition to the main show, two rooms have been super-sized – the 1840s kitchen and a 1960s high-rise living room – so that children can go in, dress up and interact with the concept of dolls’ houses in a completely different way. And experimentation and fantasy worlds are what dolls’ houses have always been about. “I think it’s the way that you can project yourself into a completely different life, they’re like tableaus, you can’t help but spark your imagination,” says Alice. “Being able to play with dolls’ houses, rearrange furniture and artworks within them, and make our own additions, is such a creative act – we can create our own worlds.” L

.Whiteladies House .showcasing the .fashionable generation .between the wars

.The famous .Tate Baby House, .made in 1760.

Box Back Terrace. A 19th century mass .market dolls house

Killer Cabinet Dolls’ House Named after the Killer family who created it in the 1830s

vam.ac.uk/moc

Molly's Favourite Things by Molly Meg

My Dream Space, My Toy Box by Design K

Llama Dreams by Donna Wilson

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

FEATURE

PLAN TOYS BARN AND STABLE from £47.95, greatgizmos.co.uk

PLAN TOYS GREEN DOLLHOUSE WITH FURNITURE £149, greatgizmos.co.uk

BUCKINGHAM PALACE BOOK CUPBOARD £1,425, dragonsofwaltonstreet.com

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70 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

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1. Oeuf NYC Perch Bunk Bed £1,195, nubie.co.uk 2. Linus Single Bed and Trundle £448, made.com 3. Buzz Collection Bed £295, habitat.co.uk 4. Daybed Caramelle £499, chicshack.net

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

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5. Christopher Treehouse Bed £399.99, noaandnani.co.uk 6. Teepee Cabin Bed £399, cuckooland.com 7. Coco Storage Bunk £850, aspace.co.uk

74 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

Inspirational spaces for kids Spring 2015

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Hand-picked family holidays that are perfect for children and their parents too!

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TRAVEL

NEW MINI MARINE BIOLOGIST PROGRAMME Water babies can set sail on a journey of marine discovery with The Residence Maldives’ new Mini Marine programme, all under the watchful eyes of expert guides. Kids will learn to use a mask and snorkel in the shallows, and for more confident swimmers there’s an excursion to see the tropical fish and reef formations. After viewing the coral, and learning about the fragility of this environment, children will have the chance to sponsor a baby coral. cenizaro.com | carrier.co.uk

News TRAVEL

KEEPING BIG AND LITTLE GLOBETROTTERS ON THE MAP AND IN THE KNOW

FOR LEGO-LOVERS May will see the opening of a new LEGOLAND Hotel at the Florida Resort and it’s set to be a real family adventure. Aside from the colourful outdoor pool and brilliantly themed rooms, guests will be able to meet the ‘stars’ of LEGOLAND in the Master Model Builder Workshop and learn to build their own mini masterpieces. Plus, a new land called Heartlake City will be opening in the summer with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions and a separate water park all aimed at children from two to 12 years old. legolandhotel.com

HAPPY HULA-DAY Embrace new cultural experiences at Fairmont Kea Lani this summer. At the all-suite resort, young guests can learn more about Hawaiian culture. Kids can join in with hula dance sessions and string orchid lei as well as learning the basics of playing a ukulele. Those aged five to 13 years can also enjoy a range of activities at the Keiki Lani Kids’ Club including building erupting volcanoes, feeding koi fish, painting coconuts and more. fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui

A FAMILY AFFAIR Combine luxury with a touch of history by celebrating the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta with The Elms Hotel & Spa. Set in the beautiful Worcestershire countryside, the hotel is ideally situated for those eager to follow the Midlands Magna Carta driving trail. At nearby Hereford Cathedral you can see a superb example of the 1217 Magna Carta, as issued by King Henry III, alongside a wealth of other medieval treasures. luxuryfamilyhotels.co.uk

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SKIP HOP ZOO BOTTLE £8.50, jojomamanbebe.co.uk APPLE IPAD MINI 3 £419, johnlewis.com

VILAC – WORD PUZZLE £16.20, smallable.com

FISHEYE ONE NAUTIC £45, lomography.com

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MR MEN CHARACTER SUITCASE £20, sportsdirect.com

ROBOT LUNCH BOX £15, sciencemuseumshop.org.uk MICRO SCOOTERS 3-IN-1 LUGGAGE SCOOTER, STEVE AOKI LIMITED EDITION £349.99, johnlewis.com DINOSAUR STICKER BOOK £5.99, trotters.co.uk INTERACTIVE UK FELT WEATHER MAP £30, corbytindersticks.com LEAPFROG LEAPBAND £29.99, johnlewis.com KAZOO MYPHONES £14.99, griffintechnology.com

CLOWNFISH WHEELIE BAG £39.99, littlelife.co.uk littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

ADVERTORIAL

Be inspired... ENVELOPED BY THE CLEAR WATERS OF THE AEGEAN SEA, SANI RESORT AWAITS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

With one of the most important bird sanctuaries in Greece, Sani Resort’s wetlands and gently rolling pine-forested hills give way to five miles of immaculate white sandy beaches and luscious gardens. Four five-star hotels – each with their own unique ambience – promise an inspiring mix of accommodation including brand new, spacious three-bedroom family suites at the Porto Sani Village which are large enough for families of seven or a group of six adults. Sani Resort is all about relaxation, so take it easy while your children are well-catered for with three Melissa crèches and mini clubs, which cater for children as young as four months old, and one of which is just opening in Porto Sani Village this year. A children’s paradise, this new space offers a baby and toddler room, separate peaceful sleeping spaces, fun themed play areas and a kitchen where they can enjoy the experience of baking cakes and biscuits. Help is at hand even on the beach with the dedicated beachside personnel who are there to look after young ones for a complimentary 30 minutes while you chill out. A great range of baby paraphernalia is also provided upon request including baby cots, bottle warmers, sterilisers, baby phones and children DVDs. Bound to be a hit with guests of all ages, the main outdoor swimming pools are now heated, one of the few resorts in Greece to offer this luxury. Sani Resort’s guests can now enjoy a warm swim in waters of 29°C in any season, perfect for guests enjoying a relaxing break in the late autumn or early spring and also great for little ones. The breadth of activities Sani offers all the family is a big part of the resort’s attraction. The blue flag-awarded beaches promise crystal clear safe water. Grab a copy of the new Sani Green Booklet and jog, cycle or hike in the

80 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

beautiful landscape. For sporty guests, the resort has both a tennis and football academy. If guests wish to channel their inner Federer or Nadal, expert coaches are on hand to teach the best tricks individually or in group classes. You will find a mouth-watering selection of cuisine at the 18 restaurants, some centred around the vibrant Sani Marina, and others in more intimate hotel and beachside settings. With an enticingly diverse culinary range that includes modern Greek, Asian fusion, Italian and Japanese, every appetite is satiated. New gluten-free dishes are also available. Sani Resort has an enduring appeal for those who want to be entertained, and those who simply want to delight in a little beachside opulence. The emphasis is always on relaxed and efficient service with an attention to detail, ensuring your well deserved family holiday is just perfect. L Two children stay free at Sani Beach Hotel and Sani Beach Club. At Porto Sani Village the first child is free, and if you choose to stay in the three-bedroom suites you can also enjoy four hours of complimentary babysitting per day. Free airport transfers for direct online bookings. saniresort.com/baby15

Family holiday inspiration… time together is precious; allow Carrier to create your ultimate family getaway in 2015 Introducing the new collection from Carrier – Luxury Family Escapes – bursting with inspirational ideas for your family travel in 2015. Our curated selection is your perfect starting point to explore some of the finest experiences designed with families in mind. Carrier specialises in luxury tailor-made holidays around the world. Our award-winning team have the skill, knowledge and expertise to craft transformative, bespoke travel that is entirely suited to the requirements of you and your family. Whatever shape or size, be that single parent families, multi-generational families, families accompanied by nannies or extended groups of family and friends, we can recommend the best options. These are the finest experiences and escapes designed by Carrier for you. Our new book is available now – with savings over various school holiday dates. To order your copy or for a personalised quotation please call our dedicated specialists on 0161 660 8847.

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www.carrier.co.uk/little

MARSEILLE PROVENCE, FRANCE

THREE’S A CROWD CRAVING A GETAWAY, SUSANNAH WARREN DECIDES TO ELOPE TO FRANCE WITH MORE THAN JUST THE KIDS IN TOW

We hadn’t even got to the villa and the atmosphere was already tense. It was 40°C in the shade outside Marseille Provence Airport as my husband searched hopelessly for the car hire office. The three kids, whose excitement levels had hit new highs on the plane, were getting impatient. And so, more worryingly, was my father. We all braced ourselves, knowing he was about to blow. It was the fi rst time all three generations of my family had holidayed together, and things weren’t going well. However, such intergenerational holidays have been a fast-growing trend in recent years, one that shows no sign of abating. More than 12.5 million Britons took a ‘3G’ holiday last year, according to a study by Sainsbury’s Travel Insurance. And 80% of those said that the span of generations had had a positive impact on the experience.

82 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

It’s a good concept. With family members often spread out across the globe and modern life demanding more of us than ever before, quality time with extended family is at a premium. A ‘3G’ holiday offers the ideal opportunity for everyone to get together, strengthen bonds and make some lifelong memories. Harried parents get a bit of a break from childcare and grandparents get to spend precious time with the grandchildren. What’s not to love? If you get it right. After a shaky start to our family holiday, it turned out we had got it right, so much so that we’re doing it again in Greece in May. But what made it such a success in the end? Well, it really came down to the villa itself. It’s hard to beat a European villa as a venue for a big family gathering: it’s a short fl ight, sunshine is pretty much guaranteed and

villas offer the space and privacy that’s invaluable when travelling in a large group. They are also great value for money. “Pooling resources enables generations of the same family to share the cost of a property that might be larger or more luxurious than one family might otherwise afford,” says Mary Stuart-Miller of luxury villa specialist CV Villas. Choosing the right villa is imperative, though, and there are a few golden rules to bare in mind. Space is everything, so make sure there is enough of it, both inside and out. If people start to feel cooped up, things will go awry. There should be a big outdoor dining terrace that fits the whole gang, space for the kids to run around and ideally, the odd al fresco spot to enjoy some downtime: a hammock here, a balcony there, a small table and chair in the shade.

TRAVEL

Layout is the next major consideration as lack of sleep is a sure-fi re way to ruin a holiday. Try to book somewhere with an annexe for the grandparents. “Built-in separate wings or renovated outbuildings give the opportunity for holidaying

messing about in a swimming pool, so the bigger the better to allow for all the rubber inflatables and tomfoolery that will ensue. Games such as boules, table tennis and snooker add to the fun and are great ways for families to bond.

SPACE IS EVERYTHING, SO MAKE SURE THERE IS ENOUGH OF IT, BOTH INSIDE AND OUT ‘separately but together’, offering privacy to each family,” says Mary. You can never have enough en suite bathrooms, while a dorm room with DVD player for the children gives parents the potential for lie-ins. Thankfully, kids never seem to tire of

Space around the pool is vital for a relaxing environment. That way, granny can read her book while the grandchildren muck around. A sun lounger each is ideal, plus plenty of shade for non sun-worshippers. Safety is obviously paramount where water

and children are involved, so choose a villa with a secure pool area. Chefs don’t come cheap, but are worth every penny. Book one for as many nights as you can afford. Ours made supper for the children, too, which is perfect if you don’t want to do more work on holiday than you do at home. Whatever you do, take turns with chores so everyone has a few days off. As for location, know your audience. If, like mine, your mum gets cabin fever after a few days, make sure there’s plenty to do nearby and that everyone is able to go off and do their own thing. To this end, don’t scrimp on car hire. Two smaller cars are better than one people carrier. Finally, don’t go for too long. Two weeks in a villa would test even the most genial of families, so why not start with one and make it a week to remember. L

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

TRAVEL

Luxury villas fit for families

RENTAL COMPANIES

LA MAISON DU CHATEAU, FRANCE VILLAS DIRECT With over 80,000 villas on their books, this website also checks flights and car hire prices to give a total holiday price. The site was set up by the Nicholas family who loved the flexibility that villas gave their family. villasdirect.com

LA MAISON DU CHATEAU This idyllic 18th century French manor house sleeps up to 16 guests, and is set in its own parkland in the Burgundy region. The English owners have 10 grandchildren in the family so the house is all set up for litte ones, with cots and highchairs, a playroom, a fenced pool, a tennis court and gardens, plus a wonderful cook on hand. lamaisonduchateau.co.uk BELVEDERE FARMHOUSE The charming seven bedroom villa sleeps up to 12 guests in the heart of Tuscany, 10km from the medieval town of San Miniato. It boasts a fenced swimming pool, sun terrace, pizza oven, beautiful gardens as well as a housekeeper and a chef. belvederefarmhouse.com 84 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

BELVEDERE FARMHOUSE, ITALY

SJ VILLAS A London-based company specialising in luxurious holiday homes around the world. The founders, Sarah Hutchins and Judith Menier, help you to select the perfect villa, and can organise everything from bicycles to cooks. sjvillas.co.uk

VINTAGE VILLAS A huge selection of handpicked holiday villas across Europe in unspoilt locations, all featuring swimming pools. With an extensive website and knowledgeable advisors at the end of phone, there is plenty of advice on offer. vintagetravel.co.uk

0844 482 2152 luxuryfamilyhotels.co.uk Search for us socially

Have fun with your nearest and dearest, yet still have some grown-up time for yourselves. We offer our guests an unstuffy mix of elegant yet comfortable interiors, fantastic seasonal food, pampering spa treatments, extensive gardens and even a complimentary crĂ¨che. Bliss! The Ickworth, Suffolk / Fowey Hall, Cornwall / Moonfleet Manor, Dorset / Polurrian Bay, Cornwall Woolley Grange, Wiltshire / The Elms, Worcestershire / New Park Manor, Hampshire.

ESCAPE IN STYLE

REDEFINING THE ALL-INCLUSIVE CONCEPT, IKOS RESORTS OFFER FAMILIES A NEW ERA OF HOSPITALITY

Dreaming about a five-star getaway, where babies and toddlers are just as important as the adults? With its new Infinite Lifestyle concept, Ikos Resorts in Greece offer beautiful beachfront settings and stylish accommodation. Whether you are seeking total relaxation or an active family holiday you won’t be disappointed. Both resorts in Halkidiki – Ikos Oceania and the recently added Ikos Olivia (due to open in May 2015) – allow visitors both big and small a range of activities including tennis, beach badminton, aqua aerobics and yoga. Or if you’re more interested in heading to the water, you will also find

86 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

sailing academy courses, scuba diving, and private boat tours. All dry land sports and non-motorised watersports are included in your stay. If relaxing on the beach is more your game, the dedicated beachside personnel are on hand to look after young ones for a complimentary 30 minutes while you chill out. Putting your little one’s care at the forefront is paramount and both resorts have an OFSTED rated crèche and kids club with English-speaking staff. A great range of baby paraphernalia can also be provided upon request including baby cots, bottle warmers, sterilisers and kids' DVDs.

Both Ikos Oceania and Ikos Olivia enjoy stunning surroundings, so why not admire the views alongside some fine dining? There are a number of exquisite restaurant options serving cuisine from around the world and if you choose to dine at one of the a-la-carte restaurants, some of them overseen by Michelin-starred chefs, you will be able to take advantage of the experienced sommeliers and their extensive selection of local and international wines. Plus, you don’t have to ‘eat in’ every night. As part of their ‘dine out’ experience, each Ikos Resort has joined forces with a specially selected local restaurant, allowing

ADVERTORIAL

IKOS OLIV IA is opening in May 2015 and spreads across 450 metres of white sandy beach and 22 acres of lush gardens and olive groves. It offers spacious rooms and junior suites, which overlook the beautiful Aegean Sea. The luxury one and two bedroom suites with their private gardens (some with beachfront access and others with heated private pools) are the epitome of style and comfort.

Sumptious rooms .at Ikos Olivia.

IKOS OCEANIA has a stunning 350 metre long natural sandy beach, fringed by pines, olive groves and cypress trees. It is set among 15 acres of gardens with elegant guest rooms and suites which offer panoramic sea views framed by Mount Olympus. Service is exemplary so it’s no wonder Ikos Oceania was recently voted the number one all-inclusive resort in Europe by Tripadvisor. The spa at. Ikos Oceania.

you to enjoy the tempting choice of traditional Greek dishes on offer while still enjoying the all-inclusive experience. Other perks include the 24-hour room service and beachside or poolside waiter service. And after dinner if you’re pining for some entertainment, Ikos promises West End style shows to keep the whole family entertained throughout the evening. But if enjoying a relaxing drink is more your thing, head over to one of the superb bars with an appetising range of branded international and local spirits. Both resorts offer a deluxe collection ensuring visitors can enjoy the ultimate in luxry and indulgence, with benefits ranging from a complimentary spa treatment, premium spirits in your mini bar, dedicated swimming pool and an exclusive area on the gorgeous beaches. These two luxury all-inclusive hotels have stunning surroundings, exceptional service and facilities and most importantly the holiday that you and your family deserve. L

Ikos. .Oceania. .poolside.

PLANNING A GETAWAY? Transfer time is 30 minutes for Oceania and 45 minutes for Olivia. Direct flights to Thessaloniki International airport go from London Gatwick (British Airways and Easyjet) and London Stansted (Ryanair). A seven-night holiday for two adults and two children at Oceania in a Junior Suite reservations@ikosresorts.com

Sea View in May half term costs €1,753 including transfers, and excluding flights. A seven-night holiday for two adults and two children at Olivia in a Panorama Junior Suite Sea View in May half term costs €1,847 including transfers. The price excludes flights.

ikosresorts.com

Tel: 0808 111 0131

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

XXXXXX

Concern CAUSE FOR

EMMA OLIVER REVEALS A STORY THAT’S VERY CLOSE TO HOME AS SHE INVESTIGATES THE EXTREMELY HARMFUL ALLERGIC REACTION ANAPHYLAXIS

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HEALTH

New Year’s Eve didn’t quite turn out how it was planned. Sitting in A&E with my six-year-old daughter having steroids for an allergic reaction to peanuts, had definitely not been on the agenda. She only ate four, and then began to swell immediately, saying her lips felt funny and her throat hurt. En route to A&E, as Esme began to cough and wheeze, I was just thankful to have administered anti-histamine. And to have left straight away. 20 minutes later at hospital, the steroids eventually calmed her hive-covered body, and after a few hours we were all able to leave: with an epi pen and a referral for blood and skin prick tests. We’ve yet to discover the severity of Esme’s peanut allergy. The doctor thinks it is likely she will suffer with anaphylaxis, as this first reaction was both intense and immediate. Anaphylaxis will take some getting used to for all of us, but especially Esme. A peanut allergy is almost certainly for life, and of course she does not yet fully understand the implications, saying: “At least I get to go to the front of the dinner queue at school now Mummy.” As for me, I’m suddenly checking all labels, and thinking outside the box as far as

the bigger issue of cross contamination: no, you can’t have the sponge cake, even with the marzipan cut off. No, you can’t have a pastry, they’ve been next to peanut brittle. No, you can’t have ice cream even if it says nut free. The pistachio one beside it isn’t, and they’re using the same scoop. Endless scenarios have played out through my mind. And as for the potential trip to Thailand where everything is cooked in groundnut oil… good job the flights weren’t booked. In many ways I’m not surprised. We are an atopic family. My dad reacts to aspirin and has asthma, while my mother-in-law has countless food allergies. Esme herself suffered with Cows' Milk Allergy until she was two years old. What’s shocking to me though, is that this reaction was totally unexpected. Esme has been eating peanuts since she was five. I waited until then to introduce them, carefully putting peanut butter on her arm and then lip, watching for a reaction that never came. But on NYE, her body decided enough was enough. I’m just thankful I knew what to do, and could remain calm. I’m even more thankful, that there happened to be some anti-histamine in the cupboard. L

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

WHAT TO DO The current NICE guidelines are to wait until your child is six before you introduce nuts to their diet. Remember that a peanut allergy can develop at any age. Always have antihistamine in your first aid box and check it is in date. And remember that in children, other signs of anaphylaxis could be a sense of doom, or a feeling of weakness or fear. If your child has a nut allergy, it is a good idea to purchase a bracelet for them to wear, alerting others to their

anaphylaxis. MedicAlert have a range on their website: medicalert.org.uk If your child has a serious reaction to food, and you do not possess an epi pen or anti-histamine, call 999 immediately. If you think your infant or child may have a food allergy please talk to your Health Visitor or GP. WHERE TO FIND SUPPORT: anaphylaxis.org.uk allergyuk.org patient.co.uk

NEED TO KNOW ALLERGY is an adverse reaction produced by the body’s immune system when it encounters a normally harmless substance. Here’s a list of the most common food allergens: 1. Cow’s milk 2. Chicken eggs 3. Shellfish 4. Fish 5. Soya 6. Peanuts 7. Wheat 8. Tree nuts like hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts, Brazil nuts, cashew and pistachio nuts SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGY INCLUDE: • Itchy mouth or throat • Hives • Runny or blocked nose • Sneezing and watery eyes • Swelling of lips and face • Nausea, vomiting, tummy cramps and diarrheoa WAYS TO MANAGE FOOD ALLERGIES: • Elimination of problematic food • Anti-histamines ANAPHYLAXIS is different from other allergic reactions to food; it is an extreme form of allergic reaction and can cause swelling of the lips and tongue, trigger breathing problems, and loss of consciousness. Typically, it occurs very suddenly and without warning. The symptoms get rapidly worse, and, without treatment, can cause death. This is because the body’s immune system responds to the allergen (not in itself harmful), in such a way that it fights it quite literally to the death. It is rare, and adrenaline injections can prevent it. It is estimated that about half a million people in the UK have had an anaphylactic reaction to venom (bee or wasp stings), while almost a quarter of a million people have had anaphylaxis due to nuts.

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

Fast-track your child’s healthcare When it comes to making children better, The Portland Hospital has the highest levels of paediatric expertise and the most advanced technology in the UK. Discover how your child can benefit from the country’s leading experts in children’s health today. Story by Stacey Jackson

hould your child get ill, the best person to treat them is a leading paediatric consultant experienced in their condition. Our dedicated children’s unit is home to the largest group of private paediatricians in the UK, covering over 50 different clinical specialties. They are among the best in the world at diagnosing and treating both common and complex childhood conditions from birth to the age of 18. Using the very latest technologies, they treat over 40,000 children each year, ranging from routine check-ups to extremely rare and complex cases. Many of our consultants hold senior posts at leading NHS trust hospitals such as Great Ormond Street Hospital and St Mary’s Hospital. They’re supported by a team of experienced children’s health professionals, including specialist children’s nurses and play specialists.

We don’t treat any adult patients in our children’s unit, so your child’s hospital experience will be completely tailored to their needs. We find that this can relieve your child’s anxiety about visiting a hospital and help them to make a speedy recovery. When you’re thinking about private healthcare for your child, safety will of course be an important consideration. Do bear in mind that some private hospitals don’t offer any on-site critical care facilities. Our children’s unit is fully equipped with the latest medical technology and facilities. Should the need arise, we have a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and a Special Care Baby Unit staffed by a dedicated team of critical care experts. You’ll be pleased to know that you won’t need to join a queue for this exceptional service. Our convenient and rapid appointments give your child the care they need at a time that suits your family and your lifestyle, including during the summer holidays so none of the new school term will be missed.

Rapid appointments Don’t wait. For same/next day appointments, including evenings and Saturdays, call 020 7390 8020.

Why we’re the UK’s number 1 private children’s hospital * The largest group of private paediatricians in the UK * Leading experts in common and complex childhood conditions * Full critical care facilities * No waiting lists * Same/next day, evening and Saturday appointments * Part of HCA Hospitals, which has invested £500 million over the last ten years in the latest technologies and facilities You don’t need medical insurance to take advantage of our world-class facilities, and our prices are very competitive. An initial consultation to assess your child’s condition and determine the best course of action only costs approximately £250. To find out more, call us now on

020 7390 8020 Or visit www.theportlandhospital.com

part of HCAHospitals | World-Class Healthcare

FOOD

Gut

Feeling CHEF GEORGIE SOSKIN AND NUTRITIONIST JO SAUNDERS OF COOKING THEM HEALTHY TAKE A LOOK AT DIGESTION

Did you know that as much as 70 to 80% of our immune system is located in our gut? It is referred to as our ‘second brain’ yet we often regard it as an independent system. The bacteria in our gut plays a vital role in our health, helping to digest food, make vitamins and protect us from bad bugs that may make us unwell.

COOKING THEM HEALTHY’S TOP DIGESTION TIPS USE BROWN NOT WHITE

Simple changes in our diet, such as switching to brown pasta and bread, will help to increase fibre intake. White flour is more processed and as a result is devoid of many nutrients and goodness, such as fibre.

STAY HYDRATED

Not drinking enough can lead to constipation and discomfort. Dehydration is a common side effect of the vomiting and diarrhoea associated with a stomach bug.

GOOD BACTERIA

Taken as a probiotic supplement, after a tummy bug or constipation, this may help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria supporting both digestion and immunity. Also try to increase digestion-friendly foods like live natural yogurt, stewed apples and dried fruit such as apricots and figs. L Go online to see Cooking Them Healthy’s guide to supporting a good digestive system at: littlelondonmagazine.co.uk 92 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

TENDER SQUASHED CHICKEN FINGERS These are a great alternative to breaded chicken and are very simple and quick to cook. Flattening the chicken in this way makes it much more tender and also reduces the cooking time. Adding the lemon zest and thyme creates a delicious freshness but it also works well without if you don’t have them to hand. We have included three different dips that can be used with the chicken fingers. Changing the dips is a good way of adding a variety of tastes and ingredients to your child’s diet.

FOOD

tip

GARLIC BUTTER DIP

Save time by making up a roll of immune-boosting garlic butter dip and store in the freezer to bring out at a later date

Herbs can be incredibly soothing for the digestive system and garlic is wonderful for immune-boosting. It is worth making some extra as it is really handy to have in the freezer and it will last a few months. 80g butter, softened 1 clove garlic, pasted A handful of parsley Seasoning Place your butter in a bowl and mix in your garlic paste, chopped herbs and seasoning. Next, take a piece of cling film and pop your butter in the centre. Using the cling film to protect your hands, roll the butter into a cylindrical shape and place in the fridge. When the chicken is ready, either cut a slice from your cylinder of butter and allow it to come to room temperature or put the butter into a small pan and melt so the fingers can be dipped.

MISO DIP

Children love this unusual, sweet sticky sauce. Miso paste is widely available nowadays and as it is a probiotic food it is really supporting for your digestion. 1 tbsp miso paste 2 tbsp sesame oil 1 to 2 tbsp honey Simply stir ingredients together. It will last in your fridge for at least 2 to 3 days and is great with steamed vegetables too.

HERBY YOGHURT

PHOTOGRAPHY: GEORGIE SOSKIN

SERVES 4 20 MINUTES PREP TIME 400g chicken breast Zest of 1 lemon and teaspoon of thyme (optional) 40g white spelt flour (although gluten-free works well too) Knob of butter

METHOD

Take the chicken and lay on some cling film to prevent it from sticking to your chopping board, then place another piece of cling film

on top. Using the side of a rolling pin gently, but firmly, tap down on the breast and flatten it until its about 2 to 3cm in thickness all the way across. On a plate, mix flour, lemon zest, thyme and seasoning. Place the breast into the flour, coat on both sides, tap off any excess. Meanwhile, heat a knob of butter in a frying pan until it is foaming and add the chicken. Cook for 3 minutes per side, until it is cooked through yet still moist. Finally, slice into chicken fingers and serve with bulgur wheat, roasted baby carrots and the dip of your choice.

This is a great sauce to have in your fridge to throw on pasta or dip pitta in. It is energy and immune boosting as well as fantastic for digestive function. 140ml live yoghurt 3 tbsp sour cream or crème fraîche 1 to 2 tsp lemon juice 1 clove of garlic A large handful of parsley, mint and coriander (light herbs such as dill, tarragon, chervil would all work well too). Use a hand blender to blitz everything together to get this incredibly vibrant sauce. This will last in your fridge for 2 to 3 days.

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

FOOD

BUTTERFLY CARROT CUPCAKES This recipe uses whole-wheat flour which is less processed and higher in fibre, plus B vitamins. The cinnamon helps balance blood sugar levels and walnuts are protein rich and full of good fats.

tip

Bone broths are a highly nutritious food, gentle on the digestive system and rich in valuable nutrients to help repair gut health. Add carrots, peas, celery and any other vegetables you fancy, plus shredded pieces of chicken and white jasmine rice – after a tummy upset this is more gentle on digestion than brown rice. This recipe is crammed with immuneboosting properties from the chicken bones and antibacterial garlic and ginger. It is rich and warming, yet refreshing and incredibly cleansing.

100g white rice, cooked 2 celery, cut into large chunks (this will cook through until very soft) 70g peas 70g sweetcorn 2 to 3 carrots, large chunks (they will cook through until soft) 1 white onion, cut into wedges 2 garlic cloves, leave whole 3cm ginger, cut into large slices 1 or 2 spring onions, sliced 1 chicken carcass from a roast Shredded chicken (taken from the carcass of the chicken) 94 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

METHOD

Start by cooking the rice as per your usual method or the follow the packet instructions. Next, make your fresh chicken stock or broth by taking the chicken carcass and placing it in a large saucepan. Add the onion, carrot, celery, ginger and garlic and cover everything with water. Place onto a high heat and bring the water to the boil. Once boiling, simmer and leave for a couple of hours (or longer if you have the time). Then turn off. When cooled slightly, remove the chicken carcass (making sure you get any small bones that might have fallen) and discard. You now have a wonderful, rich and wholesome stock. If you want the flavour to be more concentrated then increase the heat and reduce the stock by evaporating it down. Add the chicken pieces, peas, sweetcorn and spring onion. When serving, take a portion of the cooked fluff y white rice and add in ladles of your stock and the soft carrot, peas, sweetcorn, and ginger. You want to create a chunky soup. Alternatively you can just add the rice straight into your stock mix. Serve warm and watch it disappear. You can keep any leftover stock and freeze for another time.

DON'T BE FOOLED, LOW FAT FOODS TEND TO CONTAIN HIGHER SUGAR LEVELS (OR MAKE USE OF SWEETENERS) TO IMPROVE THEIR FLAVOUR.

COLD BUSTING CHICKEN BROTH

If you feel the stock would benefit from more seasoning, stir through 1 tsp of Marmite to provide even greater depth of flavour

Did you know?

MAKES 8 TO 10 CUPCAKES 100g butter, melted 1 tsp baking powder 130g whole-wheat flour 60g maple syrup 60g dark brown sugar 100g carrot, grated 1/2 banana, mashed 1 egg 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground ginger 80g walnuts, chopped or smashed 200g full fat cream cheese for icing 60ml maple syrup

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line the muffin tin with 10 cupcake cases. Mix the melted butter, dark brown sugar, maple syrup and egg in a bowl and mix together. Add in your grated carrot, crushed nuts and mashed banana. Sieve over your whole-wheat flour, baking powder, ginger and cinnamon. With a large metal spoon fold together – but try to not overmix or it will become heavy. Spoon into your cases and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until fi rm to the touch. Leave to cool. For the icing, mix the cream cheese and maple syrup until thick. Cut the top off the buns and cut in half to make your wings. Spoon the icing on top of each cake and place the wings to create your butterfly!

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Eaton Square School is an independent, coeducational Nursery, Pre-Preparatory and Preparatory school in the heart of central London, educating children from the age of 2 ½ to 13 years old. The main school is in Belgravia, with four nursery schools located across London. 79 Eccleston Square, London SW1V 1PP T: 020 7931 9469 E: registrar@eatonsquareschool.com

www.eatonsquareschool.com

The Lyceum is a small, non-selective, independent nursery and school for boys and girls aged 3-11, with a unique educational philosophy delivered through topic-based learning. The school is situated in the City of London, near to Old Street and Shoreditch. 6 Paul Street, City of London EC2A 4JH T: 020 7247 1588 E: admin@lyceumschool.co.uk

www.lyceumschool.co.uk

Ravenstone Schools offer your child a unique, well-rounded education, with 2 locations in central London. Our Nursery & Pre-Prep is located next to Hyde Park (W2) and takes children ages 2 - 5. Our Nursery & Prep is in South Kensington (SW7) and takes ages 3 - 11. The Long Garden, St George’s Fields, Albion Street, London W2 2AX T: 020 7262 1190 E: admissions@ravenstoneschools.com 24 Elvaston Place, London SW7 5NL T: 020 7225 3131 E: registrar@ravenstoneschools.com

Open Morning at The Long Garden, Wednesday 6 May 9.30am - www.ravenstoneschools.com

Minerva Education ME

Inspiring Learning

Minerva Education is an independent sector schools group. Each and every school has retained its own special identity, traditions and ethos. However, through our “Inspiring Learning” education improvement programme we believe that the education provision in the schools has improved, with our teachers working together to share best practice.

www.minervaeducation.co.uk

Quainton Hall School Co-Ed Preparatory School and Nursery Boys 2½ - 13 & Girls 2½ - 11 “Excellent personal development contributes

QUAINTON HALL SCHOOL & NURSERY to the good standard of achievement” ISI Inspection Hindes Road, Harrow HA1 1RX IAPS/Church ofRegistration England for 7+ and 11+ Entry is now open.

Some limited places available in other years for September 2015

Boys 2½ - 13 Girls 2½ - 11

WE EXTEND A WARM WELCOME TO PROSPECTIVE PARENTS AND THEIR CHILDREN •  Excellent Academic Results •  Exceptionally broad curriculum •  Extensive extra-curricular activities •  Wide variety of team sports •  Outstanding facilities including an indoor pool •  An open and friendly school community •  Breakfast club and after school care

Further details from the Admissions' Secretary: 020 8427 1304 For Further information: admin@quaintonhall.org.uk www.quaintonhall.org.uk www.martinstewart.com Quainton Hall School, Hindes Road, Harrow, Middlesex, HA1 1RX martin@martinstewart.com Walsingham College (Affiliated Schools) Charity No. 312638 /martinstewartphotography Email: admin@quaintonhall.org.uk 07717 198142 www.quaintonhall.org.uk Telephone: 020 8861 8861

PLATYPUS AUSTRALIA

SUN SEA & SAFE AVAILABLE AT JOHN LEWIS PARTNERSHIP Order online at www.platypusaustralia.com

APR/MAY 2015

| littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

EDUCATION

SEX TALK AT SCHOOL

A government report has advised that sex education be compulsory for children as young as five. A report by the Education Select Committee has called for sex and relationships education to be placed on the national curriculum for the first time. This would make it a statutory requirement in all state schools. What do you think about this? Let us know on Twitter! @_Little_London

OPEN DAYS City of London School for Girls St Giles’ Terrace, EC2Y 8BB Preparatory: 24 June, 4pm to 6pm Senior: 21 September, 9am to 11am Emanuel School Battersea Rise, SW11 1HS 28 April, 2.30pm to 4.30pm Ravenstone Schools The Long Garden, St George’s Fields, Albion Street, W2 2AX 6 May 9.30am

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

St Benedict’s School Ealing 54 Eaton Rise, W5 2ES Junior: 21 May and 9 June Senior: 6 May and 18 June The Godolphin and Latymer School Iffley Road, W6 0PG 17 September, 4.30pm to 7pm

education

news

ESSENTIAL HOMEWORK FOR PARENTS FREE SCHOOLS

Funded by the government, but not run by the local council, Free Schools generally have more control over how they do things. Th is, however, doesn’t mean they can’t run

into problems of their own. One such issue has been identified in the north of England, resulting in the expected closure of one school. The funding agreement for Durham Free School has been terminated after inspectors deemed it ‘inadequate’, pinpointing specific issues with bullying. Th is closure comes at a time when the Department for Education are rolling out a renewed free schools programme. Funding has so far been secured for 50 new free schools, with more in the pipeline, to complement the existing 252 free schools currently open across the country.

littlelondonmagazine.co.uk | APR /MAY 2015

EDUCATION

EATS, SHOOTS &

Learns

The Edible School Garden project, founded by Gia de Picciotto, is a blossoming London-based initiative inspired by the USA-based Edible Schoolyard Project. The aim is simple: to get kids excited about making healthy food choices. “Growing up, my mother and grandmother did everything possible to make our meals more nutritious,” Gia explains. “When I had my fi rst son, I realised that whole food meant wellness. By creating tasty, healthy and seasonal meals for my family, I could support our immune systems and give us an overall feeling of vitality and wellbeing.” It was when Gia’s son started school that the idea for starting the project became a reality. “I learned quickly that many of the parents were lacking the basic knowledge of what it means to eat healthily and that I could help by providing an edible education for them and their kids.” Thus, the Edible School Garden initiative was born, to much applause from parents and teachers across London. Knightsbridge School in Chelsea is one of the early adopters. Anthea Humphreys, head of humanities, explains how the children have

100 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

loved getting involved. “They enjoy getting their hands dirty and like to keep an eye on how the plants are doing. We will plant some vegetable seeds and pupils can see how they shoot, grow and develop.” Feedback from the parents has been splendid, so far. “The Edible School Garden is something a lot of parents didn’t realise they needed until they had it, and their support has been instrumental,” Gia explains. “They are diving in head fi rst and taking action – from initiating fundraisers such as ‘healthy treat awareness’, to joining me in meetings with the school caterers.” It is, after all, a collaborative exercise. “We are all looking for change together.”

THEY ENJOY GETTING THEIR HANDS DIRTY AND WATCHING PLANTS GROW

The schools are able to decide what kind of fruit and vegetables they grow, but Gia suggests engaging with children from the start. “I have been a guest at school assemblies arranging taste testing and then holding votes with the students,” she explains. “In some instances, the student council has taken the vote and made the final decision.” Th is not only gives strength to the project within the school, but empowers children to make their own decisions. “Kids seem to love everything colourful,” Gia says. “The purple cabbage was a tough sell to start, but there is no question that bright colours are attractive! They also love herbs, possibly because of the beautiful aromas that you get from plants like rosemary and mint.” But it’s not just about eating healthily, there’s an emphasis on sustainability too. “We must teach children where food comes from by really and truly showing them,” Gia says. “Th is is the way forward when making fundamental choices about healthy eating.” It turns out that Gia’s grandmother was way ahead of her time. L edibleschoolgarden.net

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

THE EDIBLE SCHOOL GARDEN PROJECT IS GROWING IN POPULARITY IN LONDON. ELEANOR DOUGHTY TALKS TO FOUNDER GIA DE PICCIOTTO

WellKid® and WellTeen® have been formulated by Vitabiotics’ nutritional experts, to help

safeguard your child’s diet every day. The nutritional requirements of young children are particularly high in order to support health and rapid physical growth and development. Each formula provides a carefully balanced range of nutrients. WellKid® Smart Chewable great tasting, fruity flavour chewable tablets providing vitamins, minerals and vegetarian flaxseed oil. Includes iodine and iron which contribute to normal growth & cognitive development of children respectively. WellKid® Softjelly Multivitamins in delicious wildberry flavour pastilles providing 10 vitamins plus flaxseed oil and malt. WellKid® Softburst Omega-3 lemon flavour chewable capsules providing omega-3 fish oil plus vitamins D3 and E. WellTeen® vitamin & mineral tablets with a comprehensive formula of 25 nutrients including green tea and cranberry extracts, suitable for teenagers and young adults aged 13 to 19 years.

* With Vit. D needed for normal growth and development of bone in children.

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SOFTJELLY 4-12 yrs

From Boots, Superdrug, Holland & Barrett, supermarkets, chemists, health stores, wellkid.co.uk and wellteen.co.uk

*SOFTBURST 4-12 yrs

*WELLTEEN 13-19 yrs

EDUCATION

Diamond Schooling di·a·mond [dī′ə-mənd, dī′mənd] schoo-ling [sko̅ o̵ ̅ ling]

n. BRIT type of independent school that combines both single-sex and co-educational teaching in the same organisation

102 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

sibling. Our fi rst child, a daughter, with her lengthy concentration span and early propensity to talk, conformed absolutely to the female stereotype. From six or seven months old she was content on her play mat with a small number of toys, playing happily with them for many hours. She became a highly literate child (and indeed adult). Our second child, a boy, surprised us. He too enjoyed stories but was liable to wander off halfway through, having lost concentration. His need for physical activity was exemplified in his favourite childhood phrase: “Run about, grass!”.

optimal conditions for learning. There is also evidence to suggest that in coeducational classes the boys demand, and get, much more of the teachers’ time and attention than the girls. Reasons seem to suggest that they are more physically turbulent and more assertive in asking and answering questions. “Bad behaviour” is likely to be frustration from being trapped in a classroom for long periods of time when they would really much prefer to be physically active. Teaching boys and girls separately gives both genders the opportunity to maximise their learning in a way that no co-educational environment can match. In a diamond school, both girls and boys benefit from a curriculum, style of teaching and pastoral care that is designed especially to meet their needs. The outstanding successes of single-sex schools in public examinations will be maintained. The small number of diamond schools, of which The Royal School is one, have met a need, and have flourished by offering to families a solution to all of their educational needs within one school. Th is one school has one ethos, one school run, and, most importantly, one identity. L

TEACHING BOYS AND GIRLS SEPARATELY GIVES THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAXIMISE LEARNING, SAYS LYNNE TAYLOR-GOOBY Anyone who has struggled to teach GCSE to large classes in a co-educational school will know that the work rate of boys and girls is entirely different too. The majority of boys have a far higher need for physical activity during the learning day than girls. They have a lower tolerance for lengthy verbalising from teachers, and there is even a suggestion that they learn better at a slightly lower temperature! If you add into the mix the hormonal tempestuousness of the adolescent years, you do not have the

Lynne Taylor-Gooby is Principal of The Royal School , Surrey

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

The age-old debate between the merits of single-sex and co-education has recently been reignited, reaching the conclusion that neither is perfect. It’s a tricky one for parents: if you believe in single-sex education, but do not want your child to be entirely isolated from the opposite sex, what is the solution? I’ve got one: diamond schools. But what exactly is a diamond school? In short, it is a school that combines the best of both educational worlds. The structure begins as co-education in the Early Years, then pupils are split to be taught as single-sex until they reach GCSE (some schools start single-sex in Year Th ree, and others in Year Seven). They come back together to form the apex of the diamond as members of a co-educational sixth form. Alongside the logistical benefits of co-education, the well-attested merits of single-sex teaching will be maintained. But why do we believe that girls and boys should be taught differently? Simply put, because their learning styles are different. Many readers will be the parents of both a son and a daughter. Although gender differences are not universal, there is a strong tendency for boys and girls to conform to the gender stereotype in certain important ways. You may recall surprise at the development of your opposite gender children, having become used to an older

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The Royal School  The Royal School  The Royal School   Senior Boys’ Open Morning 28 April   

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TEACHING BOYS AND GIRLS

SEPARATELY  

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TEACHING BOYS AND GIRLS TEACHING BOYS AND GIRLS

TEACHING BOYS AND GIRLS SEPARATELY

SEPARATELY 

SEPARATELY

   

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St Benedict’s, Ealing Independent Catholic Day School Teaching a way of living Co-education from 3 years through to 18

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The Manor, Stoke D’Abernon, Cobham, Surrey KT11 3PX T: 01932 862 749 E: enquiries@parkside-school.co.uk

T: 020 8862 2254 E: enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk W: www.stbenedicts.org.uk

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We respect the dignity of all and welcome children of other faiths.

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LEARNING

USE IT or lose it! TOP UP WITH TUTORING IN THE HOLIDAYS AND SEE YOUR CHILD’S BRAIN BENEFIT, SAYS KATE SHAND

When you are juggling a busy home life, the long holidays can sometimes be more stressful than term time. What do you do with your children all day, especially when the rain inevitably rolls in? How do you initiate a routine to avoid turmoil when term time comes back around? And who can you trust to occupy your children when you are running around? It’s not just parents who can fear these long breaks. The debate over the length of school holidays has reached fever pitch in educational institutions who are questioning the current structure of the school year. Academic research now suggests that long breaks can even have a detrimental effect on children’s academic performance. One key US study found that, at best, students showed no academic growth over the summer and at worst, students lost three months of learning. This regression can be daunting news, especially if your child is facing exams in the new term. Parents are starting to recognise that they may be doing their child a disservice by not continuing their education over the holidays. However, help is at hand. There are lots of possibilities to explore; whether through a

PHOTOGRAPHY: KATE SHAND

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more structured learning programme or fun, educational games that you can play with your child each day, these exercises will do wonders to keep your children’s minds engaged and active. A 2011 research paper discovered that children demonstrated significant improvements in developing their literacy skills if they took part in academic programmes, putting those children ahead of their peers who’d received no educational input over the holidays. The brain acts like a muscle – you either use it or lose it! Educational activities should be viewed in the same way as tennis or music lessons. If you stop practising a sport you lose muscle strength and it’s not dissimilar for the brain. Maintaining the momentum is essential, especially if your child struggles at school and it will help ensure they are not put at a disadvantage, whatever standard they might be. One way of keeping on top of your child’s learning during the holidays is through gentle tutoring, whether by you or a professional. The right tutor doesn’t just prepare your child for their exams but will take the role of mentor, confidence-grower and inspirer. Tutoring is about expanding children’s educational horizons. Taking a child to the theatre or a museum can bring a subject to life in a way that can’t be replicated in the classroom. If the tutor can work this

experience into a project, a child will then feel the wider creative benefits. The impact of real-world learning has been shown to be effective at bringing subjects to life that children might traditionally have found tricky. A report taken by the University of Manchester in 2010 found that children are more engaged with and enthusiastic about their learning when it is applied to a practical situation. A good tutoring agency will offer you a number of options. Every child is unique and their learning programme should be tailored to reflect that. At Enjoy Education, we ensure that all children are offered a full assessment before being assigned a tutor to understand what areas children need to improve and how each child learns best. Some parents choose to take a tutor away with them abroad, fitting in lessons around activities and down-time, while others decide that a Back to School booster course will suit their child better. This particularly applies for children entering Year Six where they face multiple exams. We’re all agreed that the school holidays provide children with much-needed rest and rejuvenation but they also offer a wonderful opportunity for your children to enjoy learning, explore a passion and build their confidence, ready to take on the new school term with relish. L

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10/10/2014 14:36

EDUCATION

Head MEET THE

This year, The Royal School celebrates its 175th anniversary

WE SPEAK TO HOLLY HIRST, HEAD OF THE ROYAL JUNIOR SCHOOL IN HINDHEAD, SURREY

How long have you been teaching at The Royal School?

My route into education was somewhat unorthodox: after reading history at the University of Oxford I worked as an audience coordinator for BBC’s Question Time and subsequently as head of event management for a global consulting fi rm before joining The Royal School as the admissions coordinator in 2004. I completed a masters in education management in 2009 and moved to the Junior School as assistant head in the same year, becoming head in 2010.

How would you describe the ethos of your school?

The school is often described by visitors and newcomers as exceptionally warm and friendly. We believe in the absolute value of every talent and every individual; the brilliant scholar, sportsperson, charity fundraiser and so on. Th is creates an environment where everyone, adults as well as pupils, respect and encourage each other. We are fiercely competitive on the sports field, but in other respects we are encouragingly collegiate.

What is the school’s history?

The Royal School was founded in 1995 as a result of the merger of two leading historic girls’ schools: The Royal Naval School,

founded in 1840, and The Grove School, which was founded in the 1850s, and 2015 marks the school’s 175th anniversary. The Royal School has evolved over the course of the last 175 years as it has modernised and adapted. In 2003 we opened our International Department, in 2007 we opened our Daycare Department and, most recently, in 2011 we embraced the ‘diamond’ model of education, teaching boys and girls separately. The school has seen many changes over the years but, fundamentally, the emphasis placed by its Christian founders on recognising and valuing each individual underpins everything we do.

How do you ensure every student achieves their full potential?

Taking the time to get to know each pupil well enables us to play to their strengths. Th is approach increases their self-esteem and confidence, qualities they will draw upon when faced with challenges. Staff know whether the children they teach enjoy drama, sport, music or art; whether they might need support in mathematics or extension work in English; whether they are naturally risk-taking or need encouragement. Th is approach is time-consuming but, ultimately, incredibly rewarding as we celebrate individual successes, however small.

We also recognise the benefits of our environment: we are surrounded by wonderful green open spaces and we are fuelled by fantastic food. Most of the children and staff would agree with me when I say that it’s difficult to be downbeat when you’re sizing up a large bowl of apple crumble.

What type of feedback do you receive from parents?

Parents will often comment about how happy and motivated their children are. I’m always particularly pleased to receive this type of feedback from a parent whose child has joined us in the middle of the year from a school where, for whatever reason, they haven’t thrived. It’s lovely to see the relief on their face when they pop in to tell me that their child has started to look forward to Monday mornings. That said, I’m equally pleased when a parent comes to see me about their worries; these are always best addressed before they turn into proper concerns.

Where do you see The Royal School in the future? Going from strength to strength.

The Royal School, Portsmouth Road, Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6BW royal-school.org | 01428 607977 rjsoffice@royal-school.org

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classes

ACTIVITIES

Little House of Science Fun and imaginative classes and workshops Little Maths Toddler and Little House of Science are two fantastic after-school workshops that nurture curiosity while making a child’s first steps in the world of maths and science that much easier. Little Maths Toddler workshops, for two to four year olds, help to build your child’s confidence with quantities and numbers ranging from one to 10. Meanwhile, tackling that other difficult-to-grasp subject, The Little House of Science workshop, for three to eight years old, introduces new scientific concepts in an age-adjusted way through an exciting mix of discussions, practical demonstrations and scientific experiments. t: 0800 092 1062 e: info@littlehouseofscience.com littlehouseofscience.com

Busy Bakers Perfect party entertainment Are you looking for a fun-filled party or event oozing with baking, making, doing and learning but don’t really have the time or courage to tackle this on your own? Busy Bakers provides an exciting hands-on experience with food and crafts, all the while giving children memories they’ll never forget! Whether the entertainment is in the comfort of your own home, or a venue of your choice – the experience is totally bespoke. Workshops, parties, wedding entertainment, bar mitzvahs – small or large, Busy Bakers will provide the baking and craft entertainment for up to 25 children, aged three to 12 years old. t: 07766 135907 e: info@busybakers.com busybakers.co.uk

Football Coaching At Kiddikicks The very best football coaching for toddlers and children aged from 18 months up to seven years. Nippers are from 18 months to two and a half years, Runners to three and a half years, Racers to five years and under eight years. The classes are unique as they involve the whole family by encouraging parent participation. Join the fun and see your child score a hat-trick of football, fitness and fun with Kiddikicks Football Classes! Parties, private and holiday classes, nursery and after school sessions also available. Kiddikicks is now available to franchise. Contact us now to change your life. Sign up today to receive your player’s free kit (registration fees apply). t: 020 7937 7965 e: info@kiddikicks.co.uk kiddikicks.co.uk

Time To Get Baking

Venues across London At the award-winning BKD, they offer fun, messy kids’ baking events, classes and parties as well as innovative baking kits. All handmade in their Hackney-based bakery. They offer a completely bespoke experience, for children aged three plus and can entertain up to 100 children at any London venue or in your own home. BKD provides aprons, boxes and all decorating supplies, and have every corner covered from cupcakes to biscuits, creamy buttercream, glitter, sprinkles, popping candy, googly eyes, cutters, piping bags... the lot. They want to fuel kids’ imaginations and make baking easy, tasty and super fun! t: 07791 097481 e: hello@bkd-london.com bkd-london.com

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LONDON

Boutiques Wether your grabbing a few minutes for some online shopping or heading to town, we’ve put together the ultimate shopping guide

Mini Rodini

no added sugar Lulu & Nat

Founded in 2006 by Swedish illustrator Cassandra Rhodin, Mini Rodini is a playful, slightly wacky label that focuses on creativity and humour. The collection uses animals and circus-inspired illustrations and prints in their designs, creating bold but functional pieces that will have both parent and child smiling. We can’t get enough of their Pug Print collection – well, it does have pugs on it after all!

One of, if not the coolest children’s brands to grace the web, this is the place to go if your little ones like to walk along their own paths when it comes to fashion. With both a ‘don’t mess with me’ attitude and a fabulous sense of humour, no added sugar’s trendy collection lets kiddies rock the London look from the tiniest of tots all the way through to 12 years old. After all, their motto is ‘born and bred in London’.

This company is all about vibrant, playful and bold interiors! The modern designs include everything from bed linen to furniture, and all fabrics are hand block-printed in India giving the fun creations a unique twist. If you want your little one’s bedroom to stand out, Lulu & Nat’s website is the place to shop – plus the collection includes goodies for other rooms too, so we can all add a touch of colour to our lives.

Online boutique minirodini.com

Online boutique noaddedsugar.com

Online boutique luluandnat.com

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SHOPPING

Rachel Riley

notsobig

Rachel Riley’s traditionally-inspired looks are for girls, boys, infants and mamas. They are beautifully crafted and feature hand-embroidery as well as exquisite vintage prints. And we’re spoilt in London with two Rachel Riley boutiques to choose from, both charming and gorgeously styled. These boutiques are the perfect place if you’re looking for something that little bit special or a luxurious gift that will win you top marks.

Named after Roald Dahl’s imaginary crocodile, notsobig’s collection brings the life and soul of these childhood tales to the world of fashion. Unique, fun, and eclectic baby and childrenswear is sourced from around the world, and includes cool, colourful pieces for everyday, as well as lovely occasionwear. The collection blends character with the right amount of ‘trendy’, making this store in leafy north London a worthwhile visit.

For style conscious parents who are bored of their little one’s wardrobe looking too ‘cutesy’, Elias and Grace’s collection offers easy-to-wear, sophisticated pieces that are flawlessly chic. Designer brands like Chloé and Emile Et Ida rub shoulders with of Acne and Little Remix, giving the quintessentially French style a touch of cool. The store’s hip elegance has earned it a host of devotees and is the designer destination for mini style setters.

Stores across London rachelriley.co.uk

31a Highgate High Street, N6 5JT notsobigshop.com

158 Regents Park Road, Primrose Hill, NW1 8XN | eliasandgrace.com

Olive Loves Alfie

The Elfie Boutique

CdeC by Cordelia de Castellane

Since 2006, Olive Loves Alfie has offered a hand-picked selection of imaginative clothing, interiors and unique toys for newborn to 14 years. The fun, brightly coloured clothing with quirky prints and illustrations from a good mix of lesser-known brands including Rukka, Modeerska Huset and Little Tailor. Olive Loves Alfie’s founder Ashlyn Gibson also designs her own pieces that round off the very desirable collection perfectly.

An antidote to today’s glut of sugary sweet childrenswear, Elfie’s vintage style is sweet in all the right ways. With inspiration drawn from nature and the great outdoors, the designs of this homegrown British children’s brand are fun, creative and whimsical. The boutique’s shelves are lined with quirky offerings, from Elf bonnets and ethereal capes to Fairisle jumpers and desert boots. Possibly the most charming British boutique.

Now, eight years on from the launch of CdeC by Cordelia de Castellane, the brand continues to impress us envious Brits craving continental fashion and yearning for our French fashion fix. A certain je ne sais quoi is more than apparent with their collections. With over 18 stores in total, London parents can enjoy their intimate and cosy Fulham store, and their more recent addition situated in the eternally fashionable location of Notting Hill.

84 Stoke Newington Church Street, N16 0AP | olivelovesalfie.co.uk

27 Chilworth Street, W2 3HA elfielondon.com

Stores across London cdec.fr/en/index.htm

Elias and Grace

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From left to right: Bobbi Brown; Bobbi’s essential products; the new Covent Garden store

What inspired you to create your own make-up line?

THE BUSINESS

BOBBI BROWN, FOUNDER OF THE EPONYMOUS MAKE-UP RANGE, TELLS JENNI BADEN HOWARD HOW SHE BALANCES WORK AND FAMILY LIFE

After graduating from college and heading to New York to fulfi l my dream of working as a make-up artist, I soon became frustrated by the lack of flattering make-up on the market. Around the time I found out I was pregnant with my fi rst son, I had this idea to develop a lipstick that was different from everything in stores. I thought about 10 different women I knew and what colours would look good on them. Th is set of colours debuted at Bergdorf Goodman in 1991.

Now, 25 years on, the range is iconic and you’ve written many books. How does it feel?

When I fi rst started my company with a handful of lipsticks, I never thought I’d be where I am today. My goal has always been to empower women. I’ve personally experienced and witnessed how the right make-up and knowledge can help a woman look and feel prettier, and ultimately more confident – while still looking like herself.

How would you sum up your beauty philosophy?

“Be who you are”. More than make-up, beauty is really something that comes from within – it’s about having self-confidence. 114 APR /MAY 2015 | littlelondonmagazine.co.uk

That’s my vision of beauty. The Pretty Powerful campaign, which I started in 2010, celebrates the beauty of real women and is about being comfortable in your own skin, and knowing what makes you happy. It’s evolved to help women of all ages to “be who they are” by supporting educational or career training programmes. On 8 March, International Women’s Day, we introduced the Pretty Powerful II Pot Rouge and for each pot sold in the UK, we’re donating to Smart Works, a UK charity which gives high-quality interview clothes, styling advice and interview training to out-of-work women on low incomes.

Which products do you find yourself reaching for daily?

I never leave the house without Creamy Concealer, black mascara and blush in pale pink. Concealer is the secret of the beauty universe. When applied correctly, it instantly makes you appear refreshed.

You’re a mum to three boys, how do you balance work and family?

To me, the most important thing is my family: my husband and three sons. I try to

keep everything in my life – whether it’s work or home – as simple as possible. If you know what’s important to you, you will always make the right decisions and I’ve always been strict on prioritising.

How do you stay fit and healthy?

I do a mix of different cardio and aerobic workouts like running, biking, yoga and spinning. I try to exercise every day and I’ve also been practising more yoga. It’s relaxing and can actually help you sleep better at night, all of which shows on your face.

You’ve opened a new boutique store in Covent Garden. What do you love about London?

London is one of my favourite places to spend time, and Covent Garden is such a cool part of town. While I’m in London, I’ll have dinner at Scott’s or tea at my favourite hotel, The Connaught – they offer the best selection of tea, especially their ginger tea! Grays Antique Market in Mayfair has the most amazing Louis Vuitton trunks. I buy my scarves from Liberty and I tend to wear a lot of jeans, so I love Selfridges’ new denim studio! L

And so the adventure begins.

The new Peach All Terrain www.icandyworld.com