Little London June/July 2015

little london LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Mini me

To match, or not to match?

20 % OFF Carole Middleton PLANNING THE PERFECT PARTY

Elizabeth Hurley on motherhood in the capital

Summer is sorted!

Everything you need to entertain your little ones

GAME ON! ACTIVE FASHION, WINNING INTERIORS PLUS HOW TO BE A GOOD SPORT

JUNE/JULY 2015

BESIDE THE SEASIDE Buckets & spades at the ready!

£3.99 06

9 772055 336694

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.

armadillo family Call in store or go online for a demonstration at mamasandpapas.com/armadillofamily

because we’re family

NEWS

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2

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Plan ahead for your perfect party this summer on p52

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1. MINI-ME OUTFITS FROM £112 BONPOINT.COM 2. ROUNDERS KIT £30 ASPACE.CO.UK 3. FISH SWIM TRUNKS £39 RACHELRILEY.COM 4. FRINGE WELLINGTONS £70 HUNTER.COM

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

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EDITOR’S LETTER

W

ith a summer of sporting highlights ahead it seems most fitting to be focusing on sports and the outdoors in this issue. With research proving that children thrive when they spend more time outside, there has never been a better reason to switch off the screens and decamp to the garden, the local playground or one of London’s many parks. From our tennis-themed fashion shoot (p36) to the best places to go horse riding in the capital (p101) or the most family-friendly festivals (p106), there is something for everyone, whatever your activity of choice. Sports presenter Alex Payne is on hand to advise on how to encourage budding competitors to play by the rules (p65). And we’ve rounded up some fabulous garden games (p50) and a selection of sports-themed interiors ideas (p22) to keep your little Londoners feeling active whatever the British weather is up to.

We are delighted to welcome Carole Middleton to our team of contributing editors here at Little London and look forward to exploring the magical world of children’s parties over the coming months. With more than 25 years of experience in the party business, Carole will be sharing her top tips 3

for throwing the perfect party, starting with outdoor parties (p52). Regardless of whether you’re hosting a party in your back garden or your nearest park, there is a myriad of clever and creative ideas to try.

My childhood holidays featured buckets and spades in a major way and there is nothing like making your children re-live your own experiences, regardless of how much they enjoy it! But, I think it’s fair to say that sandcastles and rockpools appeal to all children, so we’ve chosen our favourite beach destinations both at home and away (p76).

Love it or hate it, the mini-me trend has caught on in a major way, with the very best of fashion brands creating scaled-down versions of their favourite looks. We explore the growing trend and reveal some of our favourite finds for your mini fashionistas (p68). Do get in touch via social media and tell us what you make of matching your wardrobes!

KATE FINNEY, EDITOR

Stokke® Scoot™

Soft Dots

stokke.com

Retro Dots

Stokke® Scoot™ design: Hans-Cato Slotterøy, Alf Vegard Fjelland, Hilde Angelfoss, Oskar Johansen, Eivind Halseth.

Stroll in style!

Get in the Wimbledon spirit with our sports-inspired fashion shoot

CON T E N T S J UNE/ J ULY 20 15

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52

47

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FEATURES 26 MY LITTLE LONDON

19 LITTLE LOVES

We catch up with actress and model Elizabeth Hurley about city living

The perfect accessory for fashionistas and budding sportsmen alike

52 OUTDOOR PARTIES WITH CAROLE MIDDLETON

21 GET SPORTY

In the first of her new series, our contributing editor Carole Middleton shares her tips for throwing a magical summer party

47 TEEPEE TIME

Time to play under the cutest canvases 50 GARDEN GAMES

Top Hat Catering creates some foodie fun for the best of birthday parties

Where hours of fun rule the land

Sports presenter and dad of two, Alex Payne talks good sportsmanship 73 LITTLE LIBRARIES

The latest community-led book borrowing trend where sharing really is caring 84 COOKING UP PLANS

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

We’re all geared up with our active edit

56 PARTY FOOD FAVOURITES

65 PLAY FAIR

PHOTOGRAPHER: ABI CAMPBELL MODEL: MEG @ GRACE & GALOR DRESS, ROKSANDA ILINCIC BLOSSOM. TENNIS CAP AND SOCKS, CHÂTEAU DE SABLE. TRAINERS, H&M. MINI RACQUET AND AUTOGRAPH BALL, THE WIMBLEDON SHOP.

SHOPPING

Thomasina Miers gets educational with food 101 GIDDY UP!

As the weather warms up, we go horse riding 5

STYLE 31 SCANDI STYLE

Taking little wardrobes by storm, we round up our favourite labels from the trendiest of Scandinavia’s offerings 36 ANYONE FOR TENNIS?

The latest sporty-inspired trends hitting London’s mini runways 58 SWEET DISPOSITION

We embrace pastels for the freshest look this summer

CONTENTS

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little london

LITTLE LONDON IS PUBLISHED BY THE CHELSEA

MAGAZINE COMPANY LTD, JUBILEE HOUSE, 2 JUBILEE PLACE, LONDON SW3 3TQ WEB: LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK EMAIL: EDITOR@LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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TEL: 020 7349 3700 FAX: 020 7349 3701 EDITOR KATE FINNEY MANAGING EDITOR REBECCA MOORE SENIOR SUB EDITOR NATALIE MILNER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT CAROLINE LEEPER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ELEANOR DOUGHTY SENIOR ART EDITOR CHLOË COLLYER SENIOR DESIGNER EMILY WELLER DESIGNER MARIA SAGUN MANAGING DIRECTOR PAUL DOBSON DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR STEVE ROSS

A little treat for you and your mini stylist

PUBLISHER ANNABELLA WARD ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER STEPHANIE ORGAN COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR VICKI GAVIN

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MARKETING MANAGER WILLIAM DELMONT DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER JAMES DOBSON DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR ANDREEA DRAGOI ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER LESLEY MCDIARMID KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER JESSICA WAY SALES EXECUTIVES KATIE AMPS CARLY BELL-LEWIS LAURA PROWSE

68 MINI ME FASHION

96 DEALING WITH DYSLEXIA

Summer Litchfield reveals her pick of the very cutest co-ordinating pieces

How to diagnose and the next steps

TRAVEL 76 OH WE DO LIKE TO BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE

99 MEET THE HEAD

Michael Beach from Parkside School

REGULARS 13 NEWS

79 BUCKETS & SPADES ON TOUR

44 GET CRAFTY

Fancy something further afield? Alice Callander rounds up some luxurious locations

Leonora Bamford and Nanny Anita put on a summer fête

90 LEAP INTO NURSERY LIFE

Maggie & Rose founder Maggie Bolger gives advice on making the transition 92 GAME FOR SPORT

Lynne Taylor Gooby steps out of the classroom to encourage families to get active this summer

AMY THACKER CONTRIBUTING EDITORS ALICE CALLANDAR OLIVIA FALCON SUMMER LITCHFIELD CAROLE MIDDLETON LITTLE LONDON ISSN 2055-3366 DISTRIBUTED BY SEYMOUR DISTRIBUTION LTD. 2 EAST POULTRY AVENUE, LONDON EC1A 9PT

Inject some nostalgia as you head to Britain’s best beachside retreats

EDUCATION

COCO STRUNK

TEL: 020 7429 4000 | FAX: 020 7429 4001

Updating you on all things big in kid world

PRODUCTION ALL POINTS MEDIA PRINTED IN ENGLAND BY WILLIAM GIBBONS © THE CHELSEA MAGAZINE COMPANY LTD 2015.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

83 OLIVIA’S LITTLE LUXURIES

It’s holiday season and Olivia Falcon helps you pack the best suncreams 103 AGENDA

What’s on in London plus our unmissable family festival special 109 GROUPS AND CLASSES

Activities for your little one

subscribe Enjoy Little London’s special subscription offer for the summer.

You’ll receive six issues of Little London magazine delivered straight to your door. Subscribe today from just £14.99 and receive a £20 voucher to spend at JoJo Maman Bébé + a FREE pair of Kids Cébé sunglasses worth £25* Just quote P505LL *Sunglasses only available while stocks last

95 EDUCATION NEWS

114 THE BUSINESS

Essential homework for parents with snip bits on all you need to know from the classroom

We speak to Julie Hamon the founder of interior design boutique bobo kids 6

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family

rules

no.1

IF WE PLAY TOGETHER WE STAY TOGETHER

Family Rules. They’re the smart way to survive the whole parenting shebang. Being able to ferry your family everywhere in comfort and style helps. Which is where the Fiat 500L family comes in, with up to 7 seats,* oodles of boot space and more storage compartments than you have wet wipes. Time to gather the clan…

RANGE

FAMILY RULES

fiat.co.uk

Fuel consumption figures for the Fiat 500L range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 30.4 (9.3) – 62.8 (4.5); Extra Urban 49.6 (5.7) – 76.3 (3.7); Combined 40.4 (7.0) – 70.6 (4.0). CO2 emissions 163 – 105 g/km. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.

*Based on Fiat 500L MPW 5+2 seat configuration. 5 standard seats and two extra seats for persons up to 1.65m.

CONTRIBUTORS

AB I CAMPB ELL

ALEX PAYNE

K ATE YOUDE

photographer

sports presenter

freelance journalist

Where do you live in London?

What do you like about living in town?

Where do you live?

I live in Tooting, which has a thriving Indian community. Being an eighth Indian myself I love the area for its authentic curry, diversity and cheap eyebrow threading!

I live in Shepherd’s Bush which I love. It is 15 minutes to Soho, 15 minutes to Sky, for work, and 15 minutes to get on the motorway heading west. It is an exciting place to live right now, and it suits us perfectly.

I live in Leyton, east London. I love my little local free library, which is outside the Albert & Francis café.

What drew you to the world of children’s fashion?

What’s your earliest sporting memory?

Like a lot of photographers who specialise in children, it was having my own that put me on a career path to shooting kids’ fashion.

Are you a sports fan?

I’m more of a techy geek than a sports fanatic.

Although I do venture down to Craven Cottage to see a Fulham match occasionally. I can play golf and would watch some Masters or Rider Cup coverage, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to record it!

One of my favourite memories is being part of my prep school’s first victory over our arch rivals at rugby. We won 8-0 and we celebrated by throwing our rugby master in the pool fully clothed. Heady days!

What do you love about fatherhood?

Because I work from home a lot I love it when both kids come in through the front door – we inevitably end up rolling around and wrestling on the floor.

Did you like books and libraries when you were younger?

I grew up in a book-loving family and was a voracious reader as a child. My mum and I used to make regular trips to the local library after school.

What’s your favourite childhood book?

It’s too hard to pick a favourite childhood book, as I have fond memories of so many!

As a toddler, I loved the Postman Pat books so much that my dad (who read them to me) used to joke that he could go on Mastermind with that as his specialist subject.

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www.le-mu.co.uk

THE RASPBERRY URBAN PUSHCHAIR Now available with FREE seat liner

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We’ve designed the Raspberry to be the ultimate urban pushchair. The Raspberry allows you to swap between parent or world facing seat position, and has a 3 position recline with lie-flat for your newborn.

Raspberry ensures families enjoy life to the maximum – lightweight, compact, manoeuvrable and suitable from birth to 25kg.

With an effortless fold and smooth rolling action from the TPU wheels, you’re sure to fall in love with the quality of the Raspberry.

Find your nearest iCandy stockist at www.icandyworld.com

Ollie & Boo Kids is an online boutique for boys and girls aged newborn to 14 years

www.ollieandbookids.com

SUMMER N TIO C E L L O C LE AVAILAB NOW ONLINE

SPECIAL OFFER FOR LITTLE LONDON READERS RECEIVE 20% OFF YOUR FIRST ONLINE ORDER BY ADDING DISCOUNT CODE OB20LL

Ollie & Boo Kids stock the following brands...

NEWS

little NEWS

THE CIRCUS COMES TO TOWN

For the first time in over 10 years the legendary Gifford Circus is coming to London and we all want to go. This vintage-themed spectacle is all about the more traditional charms of the circus, with mischievous fun, beautiful choreography, a live orchestra, clowns, horses and a much loved goose! This most English of circuses is not to be missed. Price: ÂŁ25 adult, ÂŁ15 child and under threes free | giffordscircus.com

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NEWS

FLOCK TO IT

Following the success of his hit movie, Shaun in the City, there’s now even more sheepy fun to be had. With 50 giant Shaun the Sheep sculptures scattered across the capital, The Sheep Spotter app will have your little ones out and about exploring London’s most iconic sites all summer. Shaun in the City Sheep Spotter | £1.49

Is the sun out? Gather together a little flock of adventurous minis and follow the baa-rilliant trail

ALL SUMMER LONG

LONDON MUSIC FACTORY

Whether your little one is a beach bum or more of a poolside poser, they’ll love the latest collaboration from children’s nail varnish brand Little BU and the coolest swimwear label in town, Beanie & Bear. Bright, colourful and super cool, these guys have set the summer style stakes high. beanieandbear.com

Founded with the intention of creating a modernised version of a music school, the new London Music Factory focuses on creative and contemporary learning. Supported by the Prince’s Trust, the school offers individual and group lessons at homes and schools across London. londonmusicfactory.co.uk

TO INFINITY… AND BEYOND!

Check out this brilliant creation from Harry & Jack’s. Both the Jetpack and Scubapack will capture the imagination of any little explorer with their heart set on a big adventure. harryandjacks.co.uk

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NEWS

food NEWS HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES

SWEET DREAMS Matching is one thing, matching with your teddy bear is on a whole other level. So it’s no surprise that we’re pining after this adorable and very aptly timed, patriotic pyjama set from My 1st Years which is also available in ultra-mini sizes for teddy.

Plus, you can personalise both sets.

Kids £30 | Teddy £25 my1styears.com

SUPERTREATS With no refined sugar or stimulants but oodles of natural vitamins, minerals and calcium, this is a ‘chocolate alternative’ that’s actually good for you. supertreats.co.uk

FRUIT HEROES Enhancing lunch boxes across London, these friendly fruit bars contain no preservatives, colourings or added sugar and count as one of your five a day. fruitheroes.co.uk

20 % OFF

MUNCH BUNCH The veteran of healthy treats has just had a make over. Now with 30% less sugar, Munch Bunch’s little pots of fromage frais goodness look even more appealing. munchbunch.co.uk

E XCLU S IV E O FFER

With a summer collection set to melt big and mini hearts alike, what better way to celebrate the new season than with a fantastic 20% discount at Rachel Riley. Use online – quote LittleLondon20 – or simply bring your magazine into store with you. rachelriley.co.uk *Not valid in conjunction with any other offer, or on sale items, the Heritage Collection, footwear, dolls or teddies.

Stores: 14 Pont Street, SW1X 9EN and 82 Marylebone High Street, W1U 4QW

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NEWS

Sprinkle over cereal or yoghurt for a nutritious start to the day

VITAMIN BOOST

Ensure your little one is meeting their recommended daily nutrient intake with the new range of supplements and multivitamins for children from fertility and pregnancy expert, Zita West and MyBaba parenting website founder and mother of two, Leonora Bamford. Suitable from 12 months up to four years old. £29.95 | mybaba.com

Publisher Annabella Ward with speakers Annabel Karmel and Jenny Scott

Delicious cocktails from Eclipse

Kate Finney, editor of Baby London and Little London

CONNECT EVENT Seriously good canapés from Top Hat Catering

We were joined by 100 inspirational women at Blue Almonds boutique on Walton Street, for a fabulous evening of networking, motivating speeches, and delicious cocktails and canapés sponsored by Eclipse and Top Hat Catering. Annabel Karmel captivated the room with her inspirational story of building up a multimillion pound business empire and her brilliant networking tips. And we were delighted to announce the launch of the Little London Awards which will celebrate excellence across the baby and children’s industry. Watch this space for more details!

Because with an outfit this cool, who cares? These super cute waterproof splash suits are a must for any mini festi-goer as they’re practical, whacky and you’ll be able to spot your little one a mile off. Kids Charco Rain Suit £30 | regatta.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, HELENE SANDBERG

LET IT RAIN...

Annabel Karmel and Blue Almonds owner Izabela Minkiewicz

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SHOPPING

little loves…

Mix and match the straps to suit your mood, your activity or your look for the day!

New to the UK from Italy, these shoes have already stolen our hearts!

They tap into children’s love of customisation and promise to provide a myriad of looks for little fashionistas and budding sportsmen.

It’s time to strap up, and step out in style.

PLAE SHOES FROM £45 BIFFKIDS.CO.UK

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The Worlds Finest Luxury Brands for Newborn to 16 Years

Free delivery • Over 100 designer brands • Free returns

SHOPPING

PRINT MESH CAP £7.99 ZARA.COM

I-WALK HIWIRE COBALT £45 BOBUX.CO.UK

LEATHER FOOTBALL £150 HEDGEHOGSHOP.CO.UK

GET SPORTY Give your mini athlete a winning wardrobe and bedroom to match with our active edit

Urban sporstwear for a cool look

VARSITY CARDIGAN £99 MARIECHANTAL.CO.UK

ROLLERSKATE T-SHIRT £32 STELLAMCCARTNEY.COM

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

SWIM AREA DRESS £31 BUBBLECHOPS.COM

SCOTCH SHRUNK SCOTCH-SODA.COM

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STICKY FUDGE – BRANDON SWEATSHIRT £36 ELIASANDGRACE.COM

SHOPPING

12-IN-1 FOLDING MULTI GAMES TABLE £165 JOHNLEWIS.COM

PERSONALISED FOOTBALL CUSHION £32 THELETTEROOM.COM

KIT BAG £15 HEDGEHOGSHOP.CO.UK

FOOTBALL BED IN UNBRUSHED WHITE PINE £295 CUCKOOLAND.COM

Kick, throw, catch and more with this multiple ball rug

FOOTBALL LAMP £46 GIGIBROOKS.COM

SET OF TWO BALLERINA CANVASES £15 NEXT.CO.UK

BALLS RUG £144 GIGIBROOKS.COM

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RUNNING HEAD

VOTING OPENS:

June 2015

PHOTOGRAPHY: ABI CAMPBELL

SPONSORED BY

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LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Sweet

sunshine style

Home | Bedroom | Candles & Fragrance | Clothing | The Little White Company Exclusive introductory offer

20% OFF PLUS FREE DELIVERY * Quote code A F 5 6 8

* Please see thewhitecompany.com/help/terms for full terms and conditions. Offer is valid on full-priced items only. Offer expires 24th June 2015.

Elizabeth has always been obsessed with holiday clothes, now branching into a girls line

INTERVIEW

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INTERVIEW

Actress and swimwear designer Elizabeth enjoying quality time with her son Damian

MY LITTLE LONDON

EL I Z A BE T H HURL E Y WITH HER LATEST SWIMWEAR COLLECTION HITTING THE SHELVES, BRITISH ICON ELIZABETH HURLEY TELLS US ABOUT LONDON LIFE WITH SON DAMIAN

Where do you live in London?

How did Elizabeth Hurley Beach begin?

As a child, what did you love wearing?

I live in south west London, on a street lined with beautiful cherry trees.

I decided to venture into beachwear not only because I’ve always been obsessed with holiday clothes, but also because it’s an area where women, regardless of shape or size, can either look amazing or get it wrong. I wanted to come up with a resort collection which would make a woman feel fabulously sexy at any age.

My mother used to dress me and my sister identically, but one of us would be in pink and one in blue. It was the early 70s and children still dressed in very short skirts, socks and t-bar shoes. We had zip up terry cloth robes with pom poms which my mum made and I have nearly identical ones in my collection.

As a London mum, where are your favourite places to take your son Damian for a treat?

We play at the Round Pond in Kensington Gardens or stare in horror at the dinosaurs in the National History Museum.

And when you’re treating yourself?

I can often be found at Harrods, lurking with their personal shoppers.

Where do you keep meaning to go?

I’ve never quite made the Tate Modern.

When you escape London?

I go to my country home in Gloucestershire.

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

What was the inspiration behind extending your collection to include a line for girls?

I love little girls looking both sweet and cool. Most girls love pink, so I try to find prints and designs that make girls feel special, without looking naff. Many little girls love animal prints too and our pink cheetah print is a big hit.

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Do you have a favourite piece?

I love the ladies aqua snake kaftan and the girls pink heart print.

Are you a beach girl or a poolside lover?

I love the beach, but I only stay in the sun for a few minutes as I get too hot. I usually tend to set up camp under a shady palm tree.

INTERVIEW

Elizabeth does Pilates to keep fit and healthy and models her own collections

What is the most important thing to you when you’re creating a new design for your collection?

I have to like it. Sometimes people urge me to include things that I personally can’t stand because they’re trendy and they think they’ll sell, but I just can’t.

What are your thoughts on the current mini-me trend?

I love it. It’s a bit cheesy but I know if I had a little girl I’d be very tempted.

Have you any plans to launch a London boutique?

I would love my very own boutique.

Fingers crossed for next year.

As you model your own designs – where in London keeps you fit and healthy?

I recently joined Grace Belgravia, a gorgeous health club which is ladies-only. I’ve been doing Pilates classes there and I think they’re brilliant.

Little beach babes look great in pretty prints

What is your beauty secret?

I’ve used Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair for years and I’d be lost without it.

I also love their Sumptuous Extreme Lash Multiplying Volume Mascara and pale pink lip glosses. Tom Ford does a wonderful bronzer and I love all Origins hair care as they smell divine.

Elizabeth can often be found shopping in Harrods or visiting the Disney Café

With so much going on – filming, your business, charity work and family – how do you fit everything in?

It’s true that I have many balls in the air but so does almost every mum I meet. I’m lucky that my son adores being on my film sets. Occasionally I have enough of everyone and everything and I go and camp in my shepherd’s hut without my phone to get a few hours peace.

On an evening in, what would you be getting up to?

I sink into a bath with a Jo Malone bath oil, a glass of wine and a good book. Heaven…

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Finally, what are your three hot tips for London days out with a young child?

We have the best parks in the world so definitely a huge walk; a theatre visit, and the Disney Café at Harrods – my guilty secret. L

Ladieswear from elizabethhurley.com Childrenswear from alexandalexa.com

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Find nearest stockist at www.molo.com

Scandi Fun Kids Clothing at Fabulous Prices Past season stock from; Molo, Katvig, Smafolk, iestha,

, Fred‛s World, Melton, Ej Sikke Lej and Mala (and more) at

www.tootsieandfudge.com

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scandi ST YLE

Quirky, urban, nostalgic, eco, playful, seriously cool… Scandinavia’s miniature designs have it all, and we Londoners can’t get enough of them!

Icelandic fashion created to inspire, made to last

ÍGLÓ & INDÍ Born in Iceland but fast becoming a much-loved British brand, Ígló & Indí is characterised by its playful designs that have a typically Scandinavian approach to practicality.

Promising bursts of colour and graphics that will inspire little imaginations to explore the world and have fun! igloindi.com

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RUNNING HEAD

GRO Demonstrating exactly why we are THIS obsessed with Scandinavian brands, GRO’s elegant and minimalistic approach to childrenswear oozes with Scandi-chic style. Beautiful, contemporary designs let little ones work that prim and proper look without too much effort. gro.dk

Get in the Scandi spirit LISTEN • Aurora aurora-music.com • José González jose-gonzalez.com

Follow the example set by the über cool Molo and add a touch of urban style

EAT & DRINK • Fika Bar fikalondon.com • Lisa’s Kitchen + Bar lisasportobello.com • Nordic Bakery nordicbakery.com • Scandi Kitchen scandikitchen.co.uk

MOLO The go-to brand for the very coolest of kidswear, Danish born Molo continues to create collections that are eternally stylish. With everything from a silver-coated leather bomber to a pair of cartoon-print jeans that come with pens for adding your own graffiti, the brand manages to channel just the right level of urban grunginess.

INTERIORS • Haus London hauslondon.com • Skandium skandium.com

molo.com

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RUNNING HEAD

Don't shy away from colour and pattern, rock it with playful Scandi-inspired edge

ANNALIV With such gorgeously nostalgic designs, it comes as no surprise that Annaliv’s founder grew up in England but spent the holidays in Denmark.

The charming Danishinspired prints and cuts tell a story of wistful childhood memories and idyllic wanderings across Scandi-countryside. annaliv.co.uk

ME&I In true Scandi style, this Swedish label creates pieces that are made so children can be children. Bright, colourful prints embellish easy to wear pieces that are reassuringly practical, plus Me&I are commendably unisex in their approach to design. meandi.com/uk

LITTLE REMIX

If you're on the hunt for mini-me dressing without the sugary-sweet status look no further

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

The shrunken version of Copenhagen’s much sought after women’s label, Designers Remix, this line is all about effortlessly modern style in miniature.

With double-breasted army coats and leather trousers on offer get ready to dress with attitude. designersremix.com

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RUNNING HEAD

MINI RODINI It’s fair to say that Mini Rodini fans don’t shy away from being noticed! Founded

by Swedish illustrator Cassandra Rhodin, this playful, quirky label offers brilliantly bold and eclectic designs in the form of tees, dresses and bomber jackets that are faultlessly cool and unmistakably Scandi.

LIMITED TIME SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

minirodini.com

SUMMER SPECIAL

SUBSCRIBE TO LITTLE LONDON AND GET

TWO FREE GIFTS

KIDS SUNGLASSES

Balloon Copenhagen ballooncph.com • Ministrikk ministrikk.no/en • Mini A Ture miniature.com • Little Artichoke littleartichoke.com • Sunbird Kids sunbirdkids.com

Mini Rodini’s quirky childrenswear illustrates the playful personality of Scandi style at its best

£20

+

WORTH £25

VOUCHER *Direct Debit orders only

INCLUDES FREE iPAD ACCESS

EASY WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE www.littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/subscribe 01442 820 580 quote code P505LL

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SUNGLASSES AVAILABLE WHILE STOCKS LAST

Other brands to look out for

www.igloindi.com #igloindi

THIS PAGE LOIS WEARS LETI DRESS, £139, CARAMEL BABY & CHILD. RIBBED SHORT SOCKS, £5, LA COQUETA. METALLIC SNEAKERS, £19.99, ZARA. RIGHT PAGE MEG WEARS MEL MAJORETTE ALL-INONE, £87, STELLA MCCARTNEY KIDS. RIBBED KNEE-HIGH SOCKS, £6, LA COQUETA. RITZ TRAINERS, FROM £101, STELLA MCCARTNEY KIDS. SUNGLASSES, £2.99, H&M.

ANYONE FOR TENNIS?

PHOTOGRAPHER: ABI CAMPBELL ART DIRECTION & STYLING: ISABELLE BRANSON HAIR & MAKEUP: AMY ATKINS

OREN WEARS STRIPED COTTON POLO SHIRT, £45, RALPH LAUREN. SHORTS, MODEL’S OWN. TENNIS RACQUET, JOHN LEWIS.

LOIS WEARS ACOSTA DRESS, £59, LA COQUETA. RIBBED KNEE-HIGH SOCKS, £6, LA COQUETA.

LOIS WEARS QUILTED ZIP SWEATSHIRT, £55 TO £70, LACOSTE. TENNIS DRESS, £38.99, CHÂTEAU DE SABLE. SHOOTING STAR 4 WEEKENDS BAG, £75, DANDY STAR. SCRUNCHIE, £3.50, BEANIE & BEAR. VISOR, SCARF, GLASS AND STRAW STYLIST’S OWN. TENNIS RACQUET, JOHN LEWIS.

OREN WEARS SCOUT JACKET, £101, STELLA MCCARTNEY KIDS. JOE SHORTS, £55, STELLA MCCARTNEY KIDS. ARLO DRIVE-IN T-SHIRT, £37, STELLA MCCARTNEY KIDS. TRAINERS, £9.99, H&M. SOCKS STYLIST’S OWN. TENNIS RACQUET, JOHN LEWIS.

HOLDEN WEARS EXCLAMATION SWEAT, £33, DANDY STAR. WIMBLEDON PLAYER SHORTS, £15, THE WIMBLEDON SHOP. HEADBAND STYLIST’S OWN. TENNIS RACQUET, JOHN LEWIS.

OREN WEARS BOYS TENNIS POLO SHIRT, £26.99, CHÂTEAU DE SABLE. BOYS TENNIS SHORTS, £34.99, CHÂTEAU DE SABLE. SPORTS CAP, £25, RALPH LAUREN. RIBBED SHORT SOCKS, £5, LA COQUETA. TRAINERS, £9.99, H&M. WIMBLEDON WRISTBANDS, £6 PAIR, THE WIMBLEDON SHOP. WIMBLEDON MENS CHAMPIONSHIP TOWEL 2015, £29, THE WIMBLEDON SHOP. TENNIS RACQUET, JOHN LEWIS. DRINKS HOLDER, STYLIST’S OWN.

Photographic Assistants: Rosie Duca and Alessandro De Bessi. Location: IRIS Studios.

With thanks to The Spencer Tennis Club, London SW18 (spencertennisclub.org) for the loan of the umpire chair and trophy and model agency Grace and Galor.

CREATIVITY

Tasty fun, kids love nibbling their way to the finish line

A SPORTY OUTING

With Wimbledon fever underway why not pay a visit to the Wimbledon Museum where you can watch interactive films, see the trophies and watch their new 3D film? They even have a ‘ghost’ of John McEnroe that appears in the changing room he used to use. If you don’t make it to the museum catch a few games on the big screens that pop up all over town.

THE HANGING DOUGHNUT RACE Simply thread doughnuts on a string and suspend them from a horizontal line (like a washing line). The players have to eat their doughnut with their hands behind their back, and the first to finish their doughnut, wins!

Riding Essentials

If you’re serious about riding with the little ones, I would definitely get them a body protector, and you can get these at any good equestrian shop. I like a proper old-fashioned hat, which I get from Riders & Squires in Kensington. When it comes to riding boots, AlexandAlexa have a great selection and I always go for Regent for little ones, and Ariat for older children.

I usually team these with a pair of half chaps, to stop any rubbing. For jodhpurs, Harry Hall does a great selection, and my favourite at the moment are the Jenilee Pull-On Jodhpurs which are far more comfortable than the itchy ones I wore as a child!

Make a Rosette

You will need: Glue • Scissors • Tissue paper • Paper • Pen • Draw a smallish circle on the paper and then cut it out – that makes the centre of the rosette.

• Glue the circle onto some tissue paper and then trim the edge of the tissue paper so that it makes a slightly bigger circle.

• Repeat step 2; each circle should get slightly bigger.

• Cut out two tails and then stick them onto the back of the rosette.

• Finish up by writing your message in the centre of the first circle.

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HEALTHY HOMEMADE LEMONADE A summer fête is never without homemade lemonade. Squeeze six lemons into a jug, pour in five cups of cold, still or fizzy water, and then stir in half a cup of honey, xylitol, or unrefined sugar. I find this dissolves easier if you mix it with a tiny bit of boiling water before pouring into the mixture. Refrigerate and serve with ice cubes in old Kilner jars.

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

GET CRAFTY

get CRAFTY

Creative duo Leonora Bamford and Nanny Anita are feeling super summery and to celebrate they’re sharing their very best ideas for outdoor play

I

can’t believe it’s summer time already, the bulbs that the children planted in January are in full bloom, the birds are singing, and it’s nice to finally be able to spend more time outdoors with the kids. With the sun shining, Nanny Anita and I have been reminiscing about good old-fashioned games, and decided to create our very own summer fête. There are so many simple games to choose from when you really think about it – the coconut shy, throwing hoops, fishing for ducks, apple bobbing, and of course, the good old egg and spoon race.

Wherever you are this season, why not create a bit of nostalgic fun? mybaba.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG, ISTOCK, ©WLTM

Here comes the summer… I love a village fête and it's so much fun recreating one at home

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SHOPPING

teepee TIME Inspire little imaginations to roam the magical world of make-believe and adventure with our selection of top tents. And when the weather turns, bring the fun indoors!

Bring the tribal gathering inside with this playful wallpaper from Hibou Home

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PLAYTIME

INDIAN TEEPEE £83 HEDGEHOGSHOP.CO.UK

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ARIZONA ZIG-ZAG £112.59 SMALLABLE.COM

NOBODINOZ TEEPEE £129 MOLLYMEG.COM

Kit out the interior to make it all cosy – a padded base, cushions and toys are the perfect additions

HAZEL TWIGWAM £175 HEDGEHOGSHOP.CO.UK

VILAC NATHALIE LETE TENT £93.96 SMALLABLE.COM MOULIN ROTY £145 GIFTSFORLITTLEONES.COM

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If your teepee is likely to be on the move, go for a classic design to suit different spaces

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Enjoy FREE RANGE FAMILY FUN at

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RUNNING HEAD

TIP P O T ’S E L O R A C s a nd m tree branche

ons fro Drape decorati re perfect for a g n ti n u b d n a om s bushes – pom p ul and effective rf u lo o c lly a re this and are 52

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PARTIES

Our contributing editor, Carole Middleton, set up her family business, Party Pieces, in 1987 after struggling to find party decorations for her own children’s parties

“Hanging a pinata from a tree makes for an explosive party game. I love being imaginative with the fillings.”

MEXICAN PINATA £12.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

“Croquet is perfect for everyone from two year olds to 99 year olds! Leave it set up all summer so it’s ready to play.”

CROQUET SET £28 LAURAASHLEY.COM

OUTDOOR PARTI ES WITH

CAROLE MIDDLETON

“The cake is the centrepiece of a birthday party. Go for something fun that matches your theme!”

BESPOKE SPORTS CAKE CAKESBYROBIN.CO.UK

FROM GAMES IDEAS TO STYLING SUGGESTIONS, EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO HOST A MAGICAL SUMMER PARTY

I

am thrilled to have joined the Little London team and look forward to updating you on the most exciting products and trends from within the children’s entertainment industry.

I came up with the idea for Party Pieces when my children were small and I was frustrated with the complete lack of party paraphernalia on the market. It was impossible to find anything easily in the shops and trying to find value-for-money party bag fillers was a complete nightmare!

This prompted Michael and I to launch our own small mail order company from a shed in our back garden in 1987, and whilst we’ve grown in size, we’re still very much a family business. I love sourcing and developing LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

new products and I’m delighted to share my favourite finds with Little London readers.

We’ve always believed that parties do not have to be lavish and expensive occasions and it’s amazing what you can achieve by being clever and creative. For this issue, I’m focusing on outdoor parties, which are perfect for the summer months, be it in your back garden or in the local park.

Children love being out in the fresh air and there’s nothing better than hosting a party outside, plus it saves on tidying up! If you have the space, be well-prepared with a host of outdoor activities. Classic sports day games are great as everyone will know what to do, and there’s nothing better for burning off some excess energy!

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“There are few bigger draws for children at a party than a bouncy castle!”

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ONDON Karting Co.

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kids@notoriousproductions.co.uk 020 7326 0210

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PARTIES

PARTY GAME IDEAS SPORTS DAY SET £16.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

“Scandi-style bunting is perfect for decorating an outdoor party, or a bedroom or playroom after the party has finished.”

FABRIC BUNTING £29.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

• What's the time Mr Wolf • Hoopla • Kick the Can • British bulldog • Grandmother's Footsteps • Rounders • Egg and Spoon Race • Obstacle course • Apple bobbing • Treasure hunt • Sardines • Welly throwing • Sack race

“This has everything from water balloon pinatas to setting up camp. I promise you won’t be disappointed!”

100 THINGS FOR KIDS TO DO OUTSIDE £11.99 WATERSTONES.COM

“Not just for parties, but great for playhouses too.”

CHILDREN’S CHAIR £10 IKEA.COM

“These confetti balloons will catch everyone’s eye.”

CONFETTI BALLOON KIT £11.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

“Kids love miniature versions of the things us grown-ups love, so set up a stall and let their imagination run free...”

POPCORN PARTY STALL £14.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

LAY THAT TABLE 2 1

"Totally re-usable, dishwasher-safe, and when the time comes, 100% biodegradeable."

3 "A napkin roll is so handy when you're picnicking or barbequeing."

"A simple and stylish table runner.

My favourite tip is to use smaller pieces as individual placemats."

1. GINGHAM TABLE RUNNER £6.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK 2. ECO-FRIENDLY SPOONS £9.50 & COLOURFUL BOWLS £26 YOURSSUSTAINABLY.COM 3. MYDRAP NAPKIN ROLL £14 JOHNLEWIS.COM

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PARTIES

Party Food Favourites FOUNDER OF TOP HAT CATERING, HATTIE MAULEVERER-JONES, SHARES SOME FOODIE FUN FOR THE BIG DAY

If it rains bring the garden inside with paper leaves. Decorate the tables with fruit, and cut out a few holes, as we all know caterpillars love a nibble!

SHAPES AND COLOURS Children always need to be amused, so children’s party food should provide entertainment too – create dishes that are full of colour and different shapes.

FRUITY JELLY Prepare your various jellies as to the product instructions and keep to the side. Take your oranges and cut in half. Run your knife round the outside of the orange flesh, trying not to take off too much pith. Use a spoon or grapefruit knife to get to the bottom of the orange and scoop out the flesh gently.

Now that you have a cup-like shape you need to make it stand on its own. Slice the base of the orange without making a hole (otherwise the jelly will seep out). Fill the oranges with your liquid jelly and leave to set in a fridge (6-12 hours). Leave some in half and cut some into quarters before you serve.

FRUIT KEBAB Depending on your child’s favourite fruit, there are lovely combinations you can make.

Try kiwi, apple and blueberry. Slice the kiwi and apple into thick wedges placing them flat on the surface, cut with shape cutter in the centre. Slide onto a skewer, with a blueberry in between to make it more colourful.

DISGUISE THE FRUIT AND VEG

Think about the saying ‘naughty but nice’ and use this to create party dishes that are healthy but masquerade as something more fun.

It is easy to make little boats by adding flags from cocktail sticks and paper. Don’t forget little teaspoons

APPLE SANDWICHES Take your child’s favorite variety of apple.

Slice fairly thin pieces from the whole apple.

Take a star cutter and cut out the middle (core) of one of the slices. Spread the nut butter onto the piece that doesn’t have the cut out and sandwich the star cut out slice on top.

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PARTIES

Kids love straws but sometimes they're too long, cut them down to size for little mouths

THEME THE PARTY We love a themed party, it is great fun for the children and you’ll most likely find you’ll really enjoy all the planning, decorating and creating the themed food. We find The Very Hungry Caterpillar works wonders! The storybook is beautiful, colourful and easy to incorporate into a birthday party.

DON’T FORGET THE DRINKS

On a hot afternoon it is so important to make sure little ones stay hydrated, especially when they are bound to be rushing around.

PERFECT PUNCH Brew 4 bags of chamomile and 4 bags of a berry tea in a saucepan. Set to one side and cool for an hour or so. Once cool remove all tea bags. Add a dash sugar syrup and a couple of squeezes of lemon juice (to taste). Stir well and add in the selection of fruit (apple, cucumber, strawberries, oranges and mint) with cubed ice. Don’t forget the straws!

BUG BALLOONS Blow up green balloons to create the caterpillar’s body, then one red for the head.

Cut out black legs, eyes and antennas from black paper. Get the kids involved by letting them draw on the balloon. Then stick them together to create a long caterpillar.

CATERPILLAR SANDWICHES

Cut circles out of bread with a pastry cutter, spread with cream cheese or butter and add a filling of your choice.

Stack the sandwich and place them into a long caterpillar shape. Creative and crawlie!

PAPER PARTY HATS Roll a piece of paper into a cone. For affect cut out a bite on the tip. Glue on different shades of green circles for the caterpillar’s body then red for his head, green and yellow for eyes and nose and black for antennas! Pre-cut all these shapes and then get the children to have a go to keep them busy. L tophatcatering.co.uk

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s w e e t DI S P O S I T I O N PHOTOGRAPHER: EMMA TUNBRIDGE STYLIST: KARI NYACK AT STYLE MY BABY LONDON HAIR AND MAKEUP: FREYA DANSON HATCHER

LEFT PAGE: AARON WEARS WAISTCOAT, £57.95, SCOTCH SHRUNK. POLO TOP, ¤60, FINGER IN THE NOSE. SHORTS, £50, MILLER. SHOES, STYLIST’S OWN. THIS PAGE: KANI WEARS TOP, £48, HUCKLEBONES. SKIRT, £80, LITTLE REMIX.

THIS PAGE: LIBBY WEARS DRESS, ¤57.20, SPROUT BY GRO. BELT, ¤30.53, SPROUT BY GRO. RIGHT PAGE: AARON WEARS HAT, £27.95, SCOTCH SHRUNK. SHIRT, £61.95, SCOTCH SHRUNK. SHORTS, ¤70, FINGER IN THE NOSE. SOCKS, ¤7, ETIQUETTE CLOTHIER.

Stylist Assistant: Annalisa Paolucci

LEFT PAGE: KANI WEARS JACKET, FROM £199, PALE CLOUD. BLOUSE, FROM £109, PALE CLOUD. SHORTS, FROM £99, PALE CLOUD. THIS PAGE: LOTTIE WEARS HEAD SCARF, FROM £49, PALE CLOUD. DRESS, FROM £149, PALE CLOUD.

FROM THE FIRST WHISTLE TO THE LAST Wembley Stadium is home to the most important games in football, from The FA Community Shield and England’s European Qualifiers to The FA Cup Final. To find out how you can guarantee your place at this year’s biggest sport and entertainment events with Club Wembley, contact Chris Crouch on 0208 795 9521 or Chris.Crouch@wembleystadium.com

FEATURE

PLAY FAIR

SPORTS PRESENTER ALEX PAYNE TACKLES GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP IN CHILDREN ON AND OFF THE PITCH

I

’ve just come back from a few days in France with work.

It was one of those trips which had been ringed in red in the diary; two thunderous Anglo-French rugby matches with hulking athletes playing for high stakes in ferocious atmospheres. Sport over the channel is special, the mass community buy-in means the occasions are laced with intensity which in turn fires the competitive juices. When the home side and their supporters get going, the stadium rocks and the tremors can be felt on the other side of the city.

Throw in some early summer sunshine, and a couple of bottles of rosé by the port in Toulon once we were all done, and it all made for a pretty good work trip. We mused by the Med about how good life was on weekends like this; about how much we enjoyed front row seats at modernday Colosseums. One couldn’t help but be in awe as these gladiators smashed seven bells out of each other for two hours, only to hug like long lost brothers on the final whistle. It was a weekend to demonstrate rugby’s code of honour was alive and well: what happens on the field stays on the field. Win with humility and lose with good grace.

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Which wasn’t exactly how I’d describe the conduct of my son the following day as I towed him sobbing and shrieking to the side of the road. His sister had overtaken him on her scooter and wouldn’t let him win the race to the playground.

I thought of the giants who fight through pain for glory every weekend as I wiped away his snot and summoned up the strength to explain, once again, about good sportsmanship.

‘It’s the taking part that counts’ is our big parental focus at the moment. But my word, it is a lengthy process. We’ve just about got to the point where we can trust our five-year-old to shuffle the cards. It has taken a year of dissuading her from sneaking off to sort out an unbeatable hand before returning to deal out a suitable shambles to everyone else. We’re also in the process of ironing out the constant gloating after these inevitable victories. The continual cries of ‘I’m a winner!’ has goaded even her most placid of grandparents to the brink.

This process of educating one’s children to ‘play nicely’ is not easy. But here’s the thing – and I’m going to hold my hands up at this point – I would much rather have to tone down a child’s competitive instinct than have to install the hardware from scratch. Call it the wiring of natural selection.

As an example, and although it is not exactly in keeping with the festive spirit, I will admit to a small glow of pride watching my son in last year’s nativity play. Not because he managed to face the right direction and bow at the right time but because, when one of the shepherds tried to snatch his

It is non-stop accelerating and braking or in my daughter’s case, not braking at all

66

mini hoover off him (our lectures on standards of cleanliness are clearly registering more than those on good sportsmanship) my little inn keeper hung in there and took it back. As this electrical appliance fracas broke out in Bethlehem, his mother delivered that helplessly ineffective ‘silent telling off routine’ from across the audience – the one that looks like you’re being electrocuted in short sharp bursts – and yet I couldn’t help but give him a nod of approval at the same time. To me, this was ‘survival of the fittest’ in a microcosm.

Given all the conflicting advice they’re receiving, I pity the children. We are teaching them how to win, to want to win, not to give up but not to mind when they don’t win. We are trying to ignite the fires of competition whilst also spraying an extinguisher around to make sure they don’t get out of control.

I find myself regularly saying ‘Don’t! But do a little bit…’. It is non-stop accelerating and braking. Or in my daughter’s case, not braking at all.

Because, while trying to head in four different directions at once, we also have to add in the rules to play by. Neither really works without the other, as our eldest proved at her first sports day. I had actually only just arrived back from a month in Australia covering a great British sporting triumph, but the joy of watching our best rugby players win on the other side of the world was nothing compared to the pride of my daughter’s first 25 yard dash. She tore into the lead (in a field of three) but if you’ve not been told that you can stop once you’ve dipped for the line and broken the finishing tape, then you don’t.

Without this information, my daughter did what any competitive animal in the race for survival would do – and kept running. Through the Year 1 egg and spoon race, over the Year 2 long jump, beyond the Year 3 discus.

Past the cake stall, around the picnics, out into the car park, noone could get her to stop. If it wasn’t for the end of the earth, she’d probably still be going. Paula Radcliffe would’ve stood to applaud.

In fact, perhaps professionals like Paula are our best hope in all of this. Our children need sporting idols who do the things we’re all preaching about so they can actually see what ‘good sportsmanship’ looks like. No more mixed messages from me, I’m taking the kids and this life lesson back to the Mediterranean this summer.

And if I’m honest, I could do with a refresher course too.

After those four nights away in France, my wife and I ended up sitting down after dinner with a glass of wine and the Scrabble board. Within half an hour the night had descended into swearing, cheating, hair pulling, fighting, biting, gloating, anger (hers) and glory (all mine!). Apparently you could feel the tremors on the other side of London. L LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

FEATURE

RUNNING HEAD

Mini-Me

style

AS THE TREND FOR MATCHING CATCHES ON, SUMMER LITCHFIELD REVEALS HER PICK OF THE VERY CUTEST CO-ORDINATING PIECES

PHOTOGRAPHY: MINI PREEN AND JAMES CHAMPION PHOTOGRAPHY

Like mother, like daughter… why not try similar prints, in different cuts and colours?

Mini Preen preenbythorntonbregazzi.com

Budgie Print poppyengland.com

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PARTIES

E

ven the least precious of us find it hard to resist being subtley matchymatchy with our small ones from time to time, and designers such as Petit Bateau and Ralph Lauren have long realised the charm of producing miniature versions of some of their key pieces. Think Petit Bateau’s yellow raincoat and Ralph Lauren’s stripes, polo shirts and cable knits.

Not so long ago shoe designer Charlotte Olympia upped the mini-me ante with her kitty and spider web slippers in ‘Incy’ sizes, which are still on most must-have lists, and an increasing number of other shoemakers are following suit. Ferragamo now make their iconic Varina pumps for little ladies (sizes starting at 28) and for the more tomboyish amongst us ASH have downsized some of their styles such as the gold baseball sneaker.

Last winter luxury label Bamford launched matching mother and baby cashmere, heart motif sweaters, proving that it’s never too soon to start dressing alike, and if you’re after 50s style dresses for you and your little jitterbug look no further than Poppy London.

For diminuitive hipsters, Mini Preen has been a hands-down favourite since the line was launched in 2013. And Yasmin Sewell’s laidback, luxe sportif label Etre Cecile recently introduced a kids collection, Etre Petite, featuring slogan sweatshirts and graphic animal prints.

Also on our wish lists this summer are the divine, ditsy-print cotton smocks and dresses

by Australian label printbebe, and, just in time for those first rays of sun, Heidi Klein are launching their first own-label collection of swimsuits for ages two to 10 years. Go for a nautical navy and white stripe and you’ll both be the last word in beach chic.

Emma Smith, creator of the blog Little Style Fix, enjoys playing with matching outfits. “I often find that my daughter and I are dressed in the same kind of thing without LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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RUNNING HEAD

even thinking about it,” she says, “but there’s a fine line between being just matchy enough and going over-the-top. There are also some things that just aren’t age appropriate. I would never dress my daughter in leather or pleather, for instance; it just doesn’t seem right. But skinny jeans, matching sneakers and similar sweatshirts always work.”

So, whether you’re into dressing up or dressing down, whatever your style there’s a mini-me look out there for you. But remember, less is more so if you’re a firsttimer opt for something subtle like Madeleine Thompson cashmere beanies (from Net-aPorter for you, Blue Almonds for baby) and you’ll both be stylishly in sync. L

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Purrfect for the whole family!

LAYERED SILK DRESS BURBERRY.COM CASHMERE HEART JUMPER BAMFORD.CO.UK

ICONIC RAINCOAT PETIT-BATEAU.CO.UK

VELVET KITTY FLATS CHARLOTTEOLYMPIA.COM SWIMWEAR HEIDIKLEIN.COM

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PHOTOGRAPHY: RENE HABERMACHER PHOTOGRAPHY

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Beautifully Made for Little People

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• Full time day care from 8 months to 5 years Full time dayTeaching care from •• Montessori from 2 ½ years 8 months to 5 years • Open 7.30am - 6.30pm • Montessori Teaching from 2 ½ years • Newly renovated Baby Room • Open 7.30am - 6.30pm • Fantastic Outdoor facilities • Newly renovated Baby Room • Good daily balance of play, • Fantastic Outdoor learning and socialfacilities interaction •• Good daily balance of play, Wide selection of flexible learning social interaction childcareand options

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FEATURE

LITTLE

Libraries

IN BOOK-WORLD, SHARING REALLY IS CARING. KATE YOUDE EXPLORES THE LATEST ECO TREND FOR MINI READERS

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with books. Passers-by can then take away something to read from the “library”, or donate one of their own for others to enjoy.

“I wanted to encourage my children from a young age to really enjoy reading and sharing books,” says Lauren, on her motivation for hosting a library outside the home she shares with her husband Jan and three children.

“I also wanted to encourage them to be community minded, so not only getting pleasure from reading but also being able to share that with the local community.”

hen it comes to choosing a bedtime story, Lauren Sodderland’s daughters put on their pyjamas and head out to their local library. They don’t have far to go: it’s in their front garden.

The family, who live in Bow, are among the growing number of Londoners embracing the Little Free Library Project (LFLP). The charity funds and installs small wooden house-shaped boxes outside the homes or businesses of volunteers who fill them LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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FEATURE

Bianca Loh and family with their personalised Hansel and Gretel themed library in Muswell Hill

The LIttle Free Library Project in Finsbury Park

guests could bring books to donate and take new ones away.

“My children absolutely love it and every morning they check it and again after school,” says Bianca. “We have a very good children’s library nearby, but this is different. The public library is quiet whereas this has become a real hotspot for meeting and talking.”

The project is inspired by the Little Free Library scheme in the United States, which has run since 2009, and comes at a time when many public libraries in the UK are experiencing cutbacks. But LFLP director

The public library is quiet whereas this has become a real sort of meeting, talking hotspot illustrator Teresa Robertson’s Finsbury Park library depicts the Sex Pistols’ Johnny Rotten in conversation with politician and social reformer Samuel Plimsoll.

Creative mother-of-three Bianca Loh chose to decorate her family’s library in Muswell Hill herself. The Hansel and Gretel-themed installation features a mouthwatering array of sweets, chocolate and candy canes made from Fimo, not to mention a music box. “It’s the talk of the neighbourhood,” says Bianca, who hosts the library with her husband Christian and their three children Tati, five, Hunter, six, and Mia, 14. They installed the library to coincide with Tati’s fourth birthday party, so

Nick Cheshire, who set up the project with his wife, Rebecca, says the initiative is designed to create another source of books, not replace council facilities and importantly, encourages community engagement. “People say they have got to know neighbours and their community members they’d passed by on the street over a number of years but never had a reason to talk to,” he adds.

For Lauren, meeting new people is definitely one of the benefits, while for her children, it’s the surprise of discovering what people have left in their library. “It can bring such joy from very little.” L littlefreelibraryproject.org.uk

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OTHER CAPITAL BOOK SWAPPING IDEAS: • When is a phone box not a phone box? When it is Lewisham Micro Library. South east Londoners can pay a call to the traditional red box in Loampit Hill, and come away with something new to read. facebook. com/Lewishammicrolibrary

• Unwanted books destined for landfill are given a new lease of life by the charity Healthy Planet, which rescues and redistributes them to communities through 27 Books for Free centres. There are two in London - in Shepherd’s Bush and Stratford - where you can take away (for free) up to three titles per person per visit, or donate some of your own books. healthyplanet.org

• The waiting room on platform 8 at Wimbledon station is a destination for bookworms thanks to its book swap shelves, which attract a real mix of titles, from children’s books to adult fiction, magazines to school textbooks. facebook.com/

wimbledonstationbookswap

• Islington council has book swap sites around the borough as part of its Islington Reads campaign promoting wider reading among residents. You can pick up a book, or pass one on, at various leisure or learning centres and youth hubs. islington.gov.uk

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Since launching in Walthamstow in May 2014, LFLP has installed 32 Little Libraries across London, from Stoke Newington to Leyton, Woolwich to Wanstead. The charity, which aims to promote reading, art and community engagement through its book swapping scheme, hopes to have 100 up and running in the UK within the next year.

Each library is designed by a local artist, with eye-catching results. Tattoo artist Leticia Molera Vasquez’s design for a library in Leytonstone takes inspiration from the nearby Epping Forest, while children’s book

TRAVEL

LYME REGIS, DORSET

Hunt for fossils and nuture your mini-geologist’s enthusiasm along this stretch of UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coastline.

Where to eat: The Courtyard Cafe at the Town Mill (townmill.org.uk) is a hidden gem, or head to the Hix Oyster and Fish House for mealtimes with a view.

Where to stay: Book a Cottage Apartment at the Alexandra (hotelalexandra.co.uk), a boutique hotel overlooking the little harbour, or opt for a suite at the quirky Hix Townhouse (hixtownhouse.co.uk) for stylish interiors and breakfast hampers.

Oh I do like to be

BESIDE THE SEASIDE…

KEEP IT SIMPLE WITH A NOSTALGIC TRIP TO THE BEACH, COMPLETE WITH WINDBREAKS, NERVOUS PADDLING AND SANDY ICE CREAMS!

BRANCASTER, NORFOLK

However popular Norfolk might be, there is always space for families on the broad sweeping beaches, perfect for games of cricket and football. Visit the Queen at nearby Sandringham, browse the shops in Holt and Burnham Market, and kick back on the beaches of Brancaster and Holkham.

Where to eat: Combine birdwatching with eating at the superbly located White Horse Inn (whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk), or stock up on ice creams and snacks without having to step off the sand at the Beach Kiosk (brancasterbeachkiosk.co.uk).

Where to stay: With access to the coastal path and views over the atmospheric marshes, the White Horse Inn has family rooms and a children’s menu. Further inland, The Hoste, is a cosy boutique hotel dating from the 17th century in the middle of ultra-chic Burnham Market (thehoste.com).

WATERGATE BAY, CORNWALL

A stunning two-mile stretch of sandy beach near Newquay. With a relaxed vibe, it is perfect for families. The Extreme Academy (extremeacademy.co.uk) is based here, and teaches everything under the sun from surfing to mountain-boarding.

Where to eat: Jamie Oliver’s celebrated restaurant, Fifteen Cornwall, overlooks the bay (fifteencornwall.co.uk). Otherwise the Watergate Bay Hotel has several different dining options, including a restaurant for parents keen to eat early with their children.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Where to stay: The Watergate Bay Hotel, with views out over the expanse of beach, is a resort-style hotel with a contemporary feel and features a great indoor pool and spa and evening entertainment for little ones in the Kids’ Zone (watergatebay.co.uk).

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TRAVEL

RHOSSILI, WALES

The Gower Peninsula was the first area in the UK to be voted an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and with nearly 20 miles of sandy beaches it’s not hard to see why. Hire wetsuits and surfboards from Sam’s Surf Shack and hit the waves in style.

Where to eat: Visit the Fairyhill Hotel’s restaurant for some serious dining (fairyhill.net); or keep it low-key and familyfriendly at the Bay Bistro for delicious cakes and sandwiches (thebaybistro.co.uk).

Where to stay: Book a cottage with character on the fabulous Penrice Estate (penricecastle.co.uk) and take your pick of Gower Peninsula beaches to visit, or opt for views over Rhossili Bay at the Worm’s Head Hotel (thewormshead.co.uk).

BLACKPOOL SANDS, DEVON

SOUTHWOLD, SUFFOLK

The iconic beach huts lend this seaside town a colourful charm, and there’s something very British about strolling down the promenade to the restored pier. Shop for Mulberry handbags and DVF dresses in the chi-chi boutiques, or take on some crabbing down at the harbour, where there’s a rowing boat to ferry you over to Walberswick.

Where to eat: Try the fresh fish and chips and a pint of Adnams ale at The Harbour Inn (harbourinnsouthwold.co.uk), seafood platters at the Southwold Smokehouse (solebayfishco.co.uk), and don’t forget the treats and artisan bread on offer at the artisan bakery and patisserie Two Magpies Bakery (twomagpiesbakery.co.uk).

Where to stay: Live like a local and book a cottage from Durrants (durrantsholidaycottages.co.uk) or Suffolk Secrets (suffolk-secrets.co.uk). Or treat yourself to a stay in The Swan Hotel (adnams.co.uk/hotels), family-friendly and located in the charming market square.

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About three miles from Dartmouth, Blackpool Sands is a truly beautiful awardwinning privately managed Blue Flag beach in south Devon. With a turquoise blue sea, it has an almost Mediterranean feel enveloped by evergreens and pines.

Where to eat: A hop, skip and a jump away is the Venus Café. Sitting right on the beach, enjoy the beautiful views complemented by delicious local food. From their fresh crab, organic Devon steak to homemade cream teas, you can eat in or take away!

Where to stay: Set in a traditional English country setting, Gitcombe House Country Cottages is situated in a south Devon valley (gitcombe.co.uk). About 20 minutes from Blackpool Sands this boutique bolthole is a perfect getaway from the city.

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TRAVEL

ZANZIBAR

On the east coast of Zanzibar, Baraza Resort is an intimate all-inclusive resort hotel situated with idyllic free-standing villas dotted around tropical gardens. Children are warmly welcomed here – as the Swahili proverb says: “Children are the reward of life”. So it is no surprise that Baraza is dedicated to ensuring their younger guests have a wonderful experience and that the entire family makes the most of the beautiful natural surroundings, activities and cultural experiences that they have to offer. There is a fully equipped Kids’ Club with a variety of toys, games, activities and a shaded children’s pool perfect for kids aged four to 12 (younger children are welcome if accompanied by an adult). For older kids there’s ping pong, table football, a children’s pool table and the Water Club where they can learn to kitesurf, sail, pedal boating or go on a snorkeling trip. baraza-zanzibar.com

BUCKETS & SPADES

on tour

FOR GUARANTEED SUNSHINE ALICE CALLANDER ROUNDS UP SOME LUXURIOUS LOCATIONS

KENYA

MOROCCO

Kinondo Kwetu is a family-friendly beach hotel on the coast in southern Kenya. The Swedish owners Ida and Filip Andersson have brought up their two children here.

“We love having families staying with us,” says Ida. “For the younger ones we have the beach as well as a big child friendly pool, kids riding, beach toys, first aid trained nannies, homemade baby food, baby car seats, baby cots, baby life jackets and acrobats that come in to entertain them. For the older ones we have first-time PADI diving in the pool, a skate park, canoes, tennis courts and kitesurfing and skydiving lessons. We have a lot of space for parents to find peaceful spots at the same time as kids are having fun.”

Make like Morocco’s rich and famous and head for La Sultana Oualidia, a boutique hotel set on a sleepy lagoon just outside Oualida itself. It has a spacious garden and a sandy beach for little ones, as well as a beautiful outdoor infinity pool and heated indoor pool. If you’re keen to get involved with the surfing, there is a safe beginners area in the lagoon while the more advanced can opt for the Atlantic side. Experiences like private lunches on the Atlantic and dinner in a Berber tent are magical, especially as a family treat. Fly to Casablanca, Marrakech or Essaouira.

kinondo-kwetu.com

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lasultanahotels.com

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TRAVEL

OMAN

We loved our stay at Zighy Bay, a beach resort in Oman, that’s only a two-hour drive from Dubai airport. The gorgeous one and two bedroom villas with private pools, dedicated kids’ club (that offers everything from crab hunting to water polo) and sandy beach, combine to make Zighy Bay an ideal family getaway, whilst also providing all the luxury and peace needed for parents to unwind. sixsenses.com/resorts/zighybay

WHAT TO TAKE

1

2

3

THE MALDIVES

CARIBBEAN

In Antigua, family-owned resort Blue Waters understands families’ needs and prides itself on offering a range of dedicated activities and facilities. Run by highly qualified staff, children attending the Kids’ Club will take part in various activities including football, tennis, cricket, jewellery design, ice cream trips and team challenges. bluewaters.net

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For a proper desert island hideaway, Petit St Vincent in St Vincent and the Grenadines ticks every box – there are no televisions or phones in the rooms here, if you want room service you simply hoist the flag outside your room! It is perfectly safe on the island with a no keys policy so again truly wonderful in this day and age for families, allowing the children to explore the island and enjoy the natural beauty of the island and the clear turquoise seas surrounding it. Diving, football games, tennis, paddle boards, kayaks and windsurfing is also on offer, and children can feed the resident tortoises. An international airport opens on St Vincent in mid-2015 making the island more accessible.

Soneva Fushi is a small hotel with a Robinson Crusoe vibe. The Balinese style accommodation is beautiful and features outdoor bathrooms with the sounds of the jungle all around. The ethos here is all about traditional family values. Jump on their Dutch bikes to explore the island together and tuck in at their family focused meal times.

The food is delicious, and includes a choice of 30 ice cream and sorbet flavours and a cheese and meat room. This is proper barefoot luxury with a beautiful beach and clear blue sea. Plus there is a new children’s “den” with two pools, a zip wire, mocktail bar, outdoor activities and napping facilities, and plenty of family villas and rooms. Fly direct with British Airways. soneva.com/soneva-fushi

petitstvincent.com 1. BABY BUCKET SET £5 ELC.CO.UK 2. BUCKET SUN HAT £12 JOJOMAMANBEBE.CO.UK 3. BEACH BALL £3 JOHNLEWIS.CO.UK 4. SUNGLASSES £15 MONKEY-MONKEY.NET 5. HACKETT LONDON ZIG ZAG BATS £40 JOHNLEWIS.CO.UK

For more beach ideas and inspiration visit sallyandalice.com

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HEALTH

OLIVIA’S LITTLE LUXURIES

COLUMNIST OLIVIA FALCON UNEARTHS THE BEST SUN PROTECTION FREZYDERM KIDS SUN AND NIP SPF50+ I discovered this brand in Greece and later found out it has a cult following.

Paraben-free, it can be used on the face and body and it also has a built-in insect repellant to ward off nasty bugs. £18.54 frezyderm.com

KORRES SHEA BUTTER SUNSCREEN SPF50 This is not new but one of my personal favourites.

Using light reflecting filters rather than the heavy chemical ones it also contains soothing aloe and shea butter which makes it good for fighting allergies and prickly heat.

LANCASTER SUN FOR KIDS INVISIBLE MIST SPF50 This genius product is a must for water babies who are constantly in and out of the pool or sea. It coats wet skin and couldn’t be easier or more fuss free to use.

Love, love, love it. £21 selfridges.com

£22 ASOS.com

A

s a nation we may not be blessed with tropical summers but recent studies have alarmingly revealed that British children have the highest skin cancer rate in Europe. Bearing in mind that even on cloudy days 80% of harmful UV rays can still do skin significant damage, seize this moment to stock up on the season’s latest sun care. Check out my top six picks, tried and tested on my own kids. @oliviaFalcon1

TOP TIPS FOR APPLYING SUNSCREEN

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

• Always apply sunscreen 30 minutes before your kids go outside to play • Re-apply every two to three hours regardless of what it says on the bottle • A shot glass size measurement is what you need to cover the face and body of a child aged five years old and use slightly less for toddlers

HAMPTON SUN SPF70 Proof that super high protection doesn’t have to be a ghastly gluey experience, this super light mist is ideal for wrigglers as it gives a gusty spray even when you hold the bottle upside down. Also can be used on wet or dry skin. My beach bag is never without a bottle.

LA ROCHE-POSAY DERMO KIDS SPF50 This is part of my kid’s school uniform in the summer term. Suitable from three months to three years, it offers high protection and contains soothing spring water and shea butter – an ideal everyday choice.

JURLIQUE SUN SPECIALIST SPF40 CREAM Although this is not technically a kids brand – I use it myself – I often slather it on the girls. They love the smell – a delicious blend of Australian berries.

Containing marine ingredients it soothes skin that’s been exposed to harsh wind, sun and heat.

£33 spacenk.com

£16 feelunique.com

£27 jurlique.co.uk

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COMING SOON…

For those planning some winter sun, look out for Child’s Farm Sun Cream SPF50 arriving in Boots stores in September, it’s suitable for sensitive and eczema prone skin and it’s formula uses 60 per cent natural ingredients. £11.99 boots.com

Thomasina’s latest venture sees her combine food and education

FOOD

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FOOD

Cooking up plans

THOMASINA MIERS THE WINNER OF MASTER CHEF, FOUNDER OF MEXICAN STREET-FOOD CHAIN WAHACA AND MOTHER-OF-TWO TELLS LISA CARTER ABOUT HER LATEST FOOD INITIATIVE

PHOTOGRAPHY: © TARA FISHER

T

homasina’s impressive career kicked off when her imaginative culinary expertise won the hearts and taste buds of John Torode and Gregg Wallace on Masterchef in 2005. Having been brought up by parents with an “immaculate attitude towards food”, Thomasina learnt to focus on good quality ingredients, skillfully cooked in an old-fashioned, now fashionable, way!

And this is something she continues today when cooking for her own children – she has two girls, Tatyana, four years old, and Ottilie, two. “A fundamental part of being a mother is knowing that my children are eating well,” says Thomasina.

Finding the time to cook with the children is a priority. “Tatti loves crushing things with the pestle and mortar,” laughs Thomasina, who will do anything to get home in time for bath and bed, even if it means whizzing across London from Soho and back in time for an event at one of her restaurants.

Eating together as a family is also high on the list. “The children don’t eat as many chillies as we do, but they eat everything else we eat,” Thomasina explains. The family grow their own vegetables in their small back garden and the children love to pick, eat and cook their fresh produce.

Thomasina believes passionately that this contact with nature is crucial to a child’s development, which is the key to her newest venture, the Open Air Classroom.

Most days, Thomasina would walk past the ARK Franklin Primary School in Kensal Rise, near her home, where she noticed there was a great outdoor space that she felt could be put to good use. She approached ARK who were “unbelievably enthusiastic, positive and un-beuracratic”.

In order to make the Open Air Classroom a reality, Thomasina has teamed up with fellow foodie Laura HarperHinton (founder of Caravan restaurants) to raise £100,000.

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Their Fork to Fork Food Festival in June, will bring together some of London’s most talented chefs, restaurateurs and producers, with food stalls, chef demonstrations, a world fête and a secret picnic garden along with live music and activities.

The ARK Franklin Open Air Classroom will work hand-in-hand with the Edible Schoolyard Project, and will feature raised beds for growing vegetables, as well as a pond for marine science, a conservation and wildflower area to attract butterflies and bees, and a solar-powered oven and forest school to teach the children new skills. And not only will the food be cooked and eaten in the school, but they will

A fundamental part of being a mother is knowing that my children are eating well be allowed to sell vegetables at the Queen’s Park Farmers’ Market, encouraging experience of commerce too.

“The outdoor classroom is about bringing learning to life, bringing subjects alive,” enthuses Thomasina. “To feed yourself is fundamental to survival, and girls and boys need to be taught these skills in school.” The project aims to give children the freedom to explore the natural world, and has the additional benefit that they’re much more likely to eat healthy food if they’ve grown it themselves. “I worry about how pressurised the education system is,” confides Thomasina, adding that “life is not just about results”.

For tickets and more info visit franklinforktofork.com

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FOOD

A SIMPLE SPANISH FISH STEW WITH AN ALMOND CRUMB Fish stew is one of those fail-safe dishes that I cook often. It always reminds me of a weekend in Spain when we went out with some local fishermen and caught enough to feed 40 which we cooked in an old beaten-up tin barrel.

I have added a crumb to this version, as it lifts the stew from a cosy supper dish into something altogether more glamorous. Make it your own by using your favourite type of fish and, if you like, add shellfish for more body.

INGREDIENTS: Feeds 4 • 4 tbsp olive oil • 2 medium onions, finely chopped • 1 medium fennel bulb, finely chopped • 4 garlic cloves, sliced • 2 tsp fennel seeds, roughly ground • 1 Chile de árbol • 2 good pinches of saffron strands • 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 2 x 400g tins plum tomatoes • 500ml water or fish stock • 600g new potatoes in 2-3cm chunks • 900g line-caught cod, cut into large 2-inch chunks For the almond crumb • 100g blanched almonds • 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika • 1 tsp sea salt

METHOD: Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/gas 4 Heat a large casserole dish over a high heat and when hot add the olive oil.

Turn the heat down to medium before adding the onions, fennel, sliced garlic, fennel seeds, chilli and saffron, and seasoning generously with salt and black pepper. Sweat the vegetables in the olive oil for 10 minutes before adding the garlic and cooking for another 5 minutes. Add the plum tomatoes, breaking them up with a wooden spoon, then pour in the water or stock and the new potatoes.

Simmer the stew for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes offer up no resistance when you push a sharp knife through. In the meantime, put the almonds on a baking tray and pop in the oven for 5-10 minutes until a pale golden colour. Roughly chop with a knife to make coarse breadcrumbs, stir in the paprika and salt.

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Add the fish to the stew once the potatoes are cooked and simmer for a further 5 minutes until the fish turns from translucent to opaque. Spoon into hot bowls and scatter the almond crumb on top before serving.

Recipe taken from Chilli Notes by Thomasina Miers published by Hodder & Stoughton (£25)

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EARLY YEARS

Leap into Nursery Life…

WITH MAGGIE & ROSE

THE FOUNDER OF LONDON’S FAVOURITE KIDS’ CLUB, MAGGIE BOLGER SHARES HER IDEAS ON HELPING TO MAKE THAT BIG STEP

S

tarting at nursery is a big moment for young children. It can also be a very scary time for parents too!

Leaving your child with someone that you don’t know very well (yet!) can feel very unnatural and it’s important to recognise this anxiety.

Here at Maggie & Rose nurseries, we have plenty of experience in settling in. Try our top tips on how to make the process as smooth as possible…

Does your childcare provider arrange settling in sessions?

Before your child’s official start date it’s a great idea to settle them in with at least one play date or settling in session.

This will give your little one a taste of nursery life, allow them to familiarise themselves with new surroundings, and teach them it’s okay to be away from mum and dad. It’s a great time for parents to meet the team and most

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importantly the key person who will be working closely with your child.

You hold the key to your child being settled…

Children need to feel that their parents are happy and relaxed about them being at nursery. During your first few visits, you can help this process by staying calm and being friendly and positive (it’s hard to hold the waterworks

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EARLY YEARS

Are you ready?

Below is a series of mini challenges that we ask our nursery parents to do during settling in sessions. When you and your child can easily complete these, it’s likely you can confidently leave your child for a full session at their nursery.

CHALLENGE ONE As your child is playing move a little further away – about two metres or so. Can your child carry on playing when you are not next to them? Gently repeat this until your child can do this without any distress.

CHALLENGE TWO Once your child is playing, say that you have to collect an object from the other side of the room – then go (don’t worry if your child tries to follow you). Keep repeating until your child can cope. It is important that they know that you are moving away as this way your child is learning that you go, but always come back.

IMAGES: MAGGIE & ROSE

CHALLENGE THREE back at times!). Ask your child questions about their day (without overloading them) and show a great interest in everything they have achieved that day. Remain strong, and don’t feel as though it won’t work if your child is still upset at leaving you a few days or even weeks into their new nursery life. It will take time. Sometimes even those who appear to settle in seamlessly can have a delayed reaction after a few months.

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Continue nursery themes at home Ask your child’s key person what the focus of the day or week is. It might be that there’s a particular theme, or song, or colour. Extend the learning of that particular theme at home so that your little one feels confident when carrying over activities from home to nursery life. This way home and nursery work hand in hand. L maggieandrose.com

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Leave the room! Let your child know that you are going out to the car or to get something from another room. Go and come back immediately. Make sure that your child sees that you’ve come back. (Don’t worry if your child tries to follow you.) Repeat until your child accepts that you come and go, and increase the time away each time to lead up to long sessions of separation.

EDUCATION

GAME FOR SPORT PRINCIPAL LYNNE TAYLOR GOOBY STEPS OUT OF THE CLASSROOM TO ENCOURAGE FAMILIES TO GET ACTIVE THIS SUMMER our daily lives are significantly unphysical.

How many families walk any distance to school and back each day or indeed anywhere else? How many children engage in physical tasks around the house with their parents like gardening or cleaning? Very few. Anxiety about dangers means that the current generation of children has very little freedom.

Many children now spend a great deal of time sitting at a screen. This has real health implications that were unknown to a generation whose life was lived outdoors.

We’re all aware that it is important for parents to model reading in order to bring up children who love books, and the same is true about sport and physical activity. Parents who spend all their leisure hours at home

with their feet up are not likely to produce physically adventurous children. Even those who do not take part in an organised sport can enjoy walking in some of London’s beautiful parks. The ideal, of course, is to find a sport which the whole family enjoys.

Walking and camping certainly come into this category as do sailing, swimming, cycling and riding. There is something for every taste and every budget and it not only provides the valuable physical exercise which children need but gives the opportunity for families to have positive shared experiences. So this summer, make sure you and your family get plenty of fresh air and exercise too! L Lynne Taylor-Gooby is Principal of The Royal School, Surrey

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

I

t is a cliché to say that parents learn from their children but it is certainly true in our family that my children have taught me a great deal, particularly about sport. As a low to averagely sporty person, I did all the usual things girls do at school including playing in the house hockey team and occasionally in the school tennis team. In many of the schools I taught, early in my career, I was detached from the PE department and except for match reports and assemblies, I had very little idea of its importance to individuals. Then I had a family. My children’s engagement with sport divides very clearly into gender lines. I regret to say that neither of my daughters has ever been particularly sporty but both of my sons have loved physical exercise from an early age and have both been extremely keen footballers and cricketers as well as taking up other sports along the way.

Ask any parent, but particularly of a family of boys, and they will usually tell you that physical activity is essential. On rainy days when children are trapped indoors, the pent up physicality will be only too apparent, making itself obvious in noise, squabbles and restlessness. The wet playtime is dreaded in many schools, simply because of the consequences in terms of behaviour later in the day. Take any toddler to an open grassy space and watch them run. Watch them imitate the birds and swoop around screeching and gurgling with delight.

We have evolved a way of living in which

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

SEPARATELY SEPARATELY

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

St Nicholas’ School FLEET•HAMPSHIRE

YEAR 5 TASTER DAY

CONFIDENT LEARNING

Friday 26th June 2015 8.45am - 3.45pm

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 10th Oct 2015 10am - 1pm • Boys and Girls 3-7 years • Girls 3-16 years • EarlyYears Funding Scheme • Small classes with individual attention • Beautiful rural setting • School open 8am until 6pm

01252 850121 st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk For more information please contact the Registrar: registrar@st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk St Nicholas’ School, Redfields House, Redfields Lane, Church Crookham, Fleet, Hampshire GU52 ORF Registered in England Reg. No. 872200 Reg. Charity No. 307341

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www.justwilliamstoys.com

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Fun and inspirational toys and games Built on Tradition – Embracing the Future for newborns and up...

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The Summer Open Evening will be held on Monday 22 June, 2015, from 4.30pm - 7.00pm

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01/04/2015 10:04:31

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NEWS

education

NEWS Everything you need to know in and out of the classroom

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then check out our sister title. Published twice a year, The Guide to Independent Schools is essential reading for parents looking to continue their child’s educational journey within the independent school sector.

The Guide covers each stage of the school career, from nursery to sixth form, and includes a comprehensive directory of independent schools across the United Kingdom as well as expert advice to help you make the right educational decisions for your child’s future.

Order the latest issue now!

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Visit chelseamagazines.com/ independent-school-parent or call 020 7349 3700 The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for just £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

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Girls are often keen to be top of the class, while misbehaving boys can be an unwelcome distraction

CLEVER CLOGS Children can get mechanical with this new app from Seven Academy. Crazy Gears allows kids to learn the function of cogwheels in a playful way by solving the puzzle games. £1.99 iTunes

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NO PRAISE FOR GIRLS

Teachers should stop praising girls in the classroom, a leading headmaster has said.

Patrick Wenham, based at Bickley Park School in Kent, claims that too much praise for girls widens the gender gap, as boys tend to underperform at school when compared to their female counterparts. “Boys have shorter concentration spans which means they are often perceived to be a nuisance when sat alongside girls, who are often eager to please,” he said. “This culture can lead boys to be disaffected with learning and cause them to be attention-seeking in their behaviour.”

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON Peter Tait, headmaster of Sherborne Preparatory School in Dorset said that parents are too anxious about education and should be more detached from their children, to allow them to develop naturally. Parents should exercise “common sense and parental instinct” he said, and “have confidence in those whose job it is to look after their children’s education.”

EDUCATION

Dealing with Dyslexia PARENTING JOURNALIST AND FORMER TEACHER GLYNIS KOZMA ON DIAGNOSIS AND THE NEXT STEPS

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s your child slow to learn to read, write, spell or learn their times tables compared to their peers? Are they bright in every other way but you are concerned that something isn’t quite right?

The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) says: ‘10% of the British population are dyslexic; four per cent severely so.’ This means that in a class of 30 children, three will be dyslexic. Many dyslexics are never diagnosed, or if they are it may be much later in their lives. Being undiagnosed means a child may not fulfil their potential and grow-up with low self-confidence.

The BDA supports early identification of all specific learning difficulties which can include attention deficit disorder, with or without hyperactivity, dyspraxia and dyscalculia (which mainly affects numeracy).

learn their spellings for the weekly test but have forgotten those words a week later.

All children may have poor concentration, forget what they have just read, forget verbal instructions at home or school, find copying from the board hard, and have good and bad days at school for no apparent reason. A child who was once enthusiastic about school may become demotivated as the work becomes more challenging and they can’t keep up.

Don’t try to diagnose your child from those lists; they are simply a guide. Family history is an important factor: if anyone else in the

may often be behind their peers.” Bliss also suggests; “Don’t have your child assessed solely on family history of dyslexia; wait and see if they develop any of the signs.”

Your child can be assessed by an educational psychologist or a teacher trained in assessing dyslexics. Some schools (mainly independent) have suitably qualified teachers who can assess.

You can find an educational psychologist through the charity Dyslexia Action – they offer assessments across the UK – or through the British Psychological Society.

A specialist teacher can be found through Patoss which is their professional association.

The costs range from around £300 for a teacher’s assessment to £500 for an educational psychologist.

Specialist teaching is always the best option, either in or after school with a specialist teacher. If your child is severely dyslexic, there are a handful of schools across the UK (some are boarding) exclusively for dyslexic children.

With correct intervention many dyslexics go on to become high achievers due to their considerable strengths in some areas. Building your child’s confidence is vital to their success and make sure they know that dyslexia is not linked to intelligence. There is plenty of support available but early diagnosis is key to academic success and confidence. L

POTENTIAL SYMPTOMS

Signs in pre-school children include: persistently jumbled phrases when talking such as ‘cobbler’s club’ for ‘toddler’s club’, difficulty remembering rhymes (cat, sat, mat), slow speech development, forgetting names of common objects, difficulties with putting shoes on the correct feet and getting dressed.

Older children who are at school may leave letters out of words, write letters and numbers in a reverse image, transpose letters in words (was for saw), have problems learning their times tables, days of the week and spellings. Many dyslexic children can

family, including grandparents, aunts and uncles, has similar difficulties it will increase the likelihood. In state schools children are tested in Year 1 on their phonic ability: the Phonics Test. This is not a dyslexia screening test but a low score may be relevant and alert you to some further assessment.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

Educational psychologist Teresa Bliss advises: “Below the age of seven, dyslexia assessment is unreliable. A child needs to be given time to learn. A child with a summer birthday 96

bdadyslexia.org.uk dyslexiaaction.org.uk

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

In a class of 30, three will be dyslexic. Many are never diagnosed, or if they are it may be much later in their lives

Colourful Future Ahead after successful dyslexia therapy program Parent Nadia Ennon Shares her story Rebecca said she hated school. Friends would ask “How are you getting on at school Rebecca, do you like it?” “No I hate it” would be the reply.

Age

6 years

Problem Areas: Reading Issues, Spelling Difficulties, Poor Handwriting Formation, Short Concentration Span, Frustration & Anxiety Levels, Low Self-Esteem

Before she went to school everyone thought she would be fine, tall for her age with a large vocabulary & plenty of self-confidence, you wouldn’t have thought Rebecca would have any problems.

On advice from others we had already taken Rebecca to see a doctor who specialized in children with ADHD & learning difficulties. He did loads of tests & said that Rebecca had a problem with delayed development, said her left side of her brain wasn’t working as well as the right & gave us exercises to help her balance & her concentration.

THE STRUGGLE But that was when she was 5, Rebecca was now at the end of year 1 & she was struggling. It wasn’t just in one area of learning, she struggled with reading & writing but also with concentration & organization. She would jump lines in reading, had poor letter formation & was very slow at anything. She was beginning to be kept in at lunch to finish work, she hated PE because she couldn’t get dressed/undressed quick enough & homework was becoming a nightmare. Trying to concentrate on school work after dinner she would just say “I can’t” & often end up crying.

She was labelled “borderline” by her SEN teacher & told that “she could do it” by her own teacher, I was beginning to worry. Was Rebecca just being lazy or did she have a learning problem? Many people told me it was something that would just “come” & that I should just give it time. I knew I didn’t have “time” – Rebecca was beginning to lose her confidence.

I received an e-mail with details of The Alison Lawson course. The website mentioned dyslexia a lot & I thought “this isn’t what Rebecca needs” – thankfully I read some of the first hand stories. The stories really interested me because there were descriptions in these accounts that really struck me as being so like Rebecca. I filled in an online assessment form & spoke to the Centre. The form was an eye opener in itself because it asked questions about things that I thought were “just Rebecca”!!

After we had been to assessment Rebecca showed more interest in writing & began labelling things on her pictures something she had never done before. Because of the travelling and the intensity of the treatment I requested that Rebecca should have the time off & although the school were a bit skeptical they did allow it. Rebecca took to the therapist from the first visit & enjoyed the eye treatments. Because of her age & ability level the course had been tailored to suit. Each night there was homework to complete & eye exercises to do. This was more challenging than the treatment because you had to make time to do them properly. After a few days Rebecca got used to them & they definitely were an important part of the course.

This treatment is unique and highly specialist & not available just anywhere.

During the course she began to write notes to me & a short note to the therapist. On the final night of treatment Rebecca suddenly decided to write. She wanted a special notebook & she wanted me to write things for her to copy. I would write things on my page & she would copy it neatly on to hers. She had no problem with switching focus between the two pieces of paper.

6 MONTHS ON Small changes began to take place that I noticed over the course of the summer holidays. Rebecca wanted to do coloring. She had always been a free drawer & hated guidelines! She also wanted to do stickers, up to then she had struggled with getting stickers into position correctly. One day Rebecca said “do you know Mum, since my eye tests I can do hopscotch loads better” I did have to laugh! But it did show me that her balance & focus had improved.

She started back to school looking forward to Year 2. She loved her new teacher & was moved up from “starfish” to “sharks” in the first week because she could manage the sums that were set her. Progress since has been steady. She has progressed up through 3 reading bands. Her writing has become a lot quicker, & her spelling although still quite bad is phonetic. Maths is gradually improving and although Rebecca is still just under national level for Year 2, we are hopeful she will reach this by the time she joins Year 3.

THE FUTURE The best of all results is CONFIDENCE! Not only confidence to tackle hard tasks, but a real interest in science & history. Art & craft still come top in her loves, but she is beginning to branch out.

The class have been studying the Great Fire of London & Samuel Pepys, & this has really caught her imagination. They had to write an eyewitness diary & Rebecca told me she was on her second side of writing! Then when we were in the local library Rebecca suddenly said “Mum can you get me a book on the Great Fire of London” I was really pleased.

Homework although not the favorite, has ceased to become the struggle it was. Once she gets started she can complete the written work a lot quicker, & with the maths I have even been sent back to the kitchen while she completes the sums on her own!!

The Alison Lawson treatment gave us back the confidence in Rebecca, & because we were worried about Rebecca learning – she became more worried. Give the mother hope & some positive results & this then transfers to the child.

So if YOU are wondering if this course is right for you or your child I would say definitely fill in an assessment form, speak to someone at the centre & remember that this treatment is unique and highly specialist & not available just anywhere.

Therapy Program Explained The Alison Lawson Center offers a quick & effective program for reading, writing & learning difficulties.

With its 10 fun sessions of eye correction treatment & life changing results, this once in a life time treatment is appropriate from age four & is astounding parents & teachers again & again. www.alisonlawson.com

Sunny Hours 2015 Collection

Shock-resistant | Swiss made watch | Water-resistant 3bar | Machine washable 40째

WWW.FLIKFLAK.COM

Head Mark Beach, with pupils at Parkside School

RUNNING HEAD

MEET THE HEAD PARKSIDE SCHOOL

WE GO BEHIND THE SCENES TO TALK TO MARK BEACH ABOUT THIS BOYS’ PREP SCHOOL IN COBHAM How long have you been head at Parkside School?

I joined Parkside in September 2014 having previously been the head of both the City of London Freemen’s Junior School and Longacre School.

How would you describe the ethos of your school?

At Parkside we focus on providing an education that allows the boys to make the most of their abilities, interests and talents so that they will progress to senior schools as confident and independent individuals, with a joy of learning. We seek to develop children academically, socially and physically, while drawing out their capacity for compassion, generosity and understanding. We believe that children learn best when they are happy, active and challenged.

were valued. This is still very much part of the school’s ethos. Although celebrating all that is traditional, we continue to adapt our curriculum to modern times: “Built on tradition – embracing the future”. Parkside’s aim has always been to inspire pupils by offering them a challenging, innovative, exciting and creative curriculum.

How do you ensure every student achieves their potential?

We have dedicated staff on hand to prepare the pupils for the 11+ pre-tests, Common Entrance and scholarship examinations.

Pupils receive individual targets that are continually monitored through assessment and they receive regular feedback from teachers to help meet these targets. This form

What sort of feedback have you received from parents and children at the school?

Communication between the school and its parents plays a vital part of our commitment to them. We have found that social media has helped to improve our interaction with parents and we regularly receive good feedback, to which this quote from one parent will testify: “We are very happy with our son’s progress and love seeing his continuing confidence and his belief in himself, grow”.

Where do you see Parkside School in the future?

Parkside’s aim for the future is to further build on its core values and I am always looking to implement innovative, creative and exciting ideas into the curriculum to ensure all pupils are stimulated and prepared for life beyond school. L

Does the school have a long history and has it maintained its core values?

The school was founded in 1879 by Thomas Hill, a scholar from Oxford, with four pupils originally. These boys were provided with a harmonious learning environment in which good care was taken to ensure that the pupils LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

of assessment is applied to all aspects of our curriculum. Parkside’s ultimate aim is to give every child a positive attitude and encourage a commitment to lifelong learning.

T: 01932 862749 W: parkside-school.co.uk

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Kingston Riding Centre

© Sophy Ryan Photography

Riding Is For Everyone

HORSE RIDING LESSONS

We cater for all age ranges and all levels of ability. So whether you are looking to have a weekend or summer Our school is proud to offer: evening hack around Richmond Park, a gentle pony ride • A variety of lessons for adults and children on one of our cheeky Shetland ponies for your cheeky starting from age 5 little jockey, you want to “take back the reins” after a • A variety of equestrian courses for all ages number of years out of the saddle or take your horse including BHS and Pony Club courses. knowledge to another level through our structured BHS approved courses, here at Kingston Riding Centre we Whether you are a complete beginner or an can work with you to achieve your goals. experienced rider, we look forward to welcoming We also have Livery and Share-a-Horse you to Kingston Riding Centre soon. schemes available 38 Crescent Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT2 7RG T: 020 8546 6361 • E: kingston.r.c@btconnect.com

www.kingstonridingcentre.com

INTERVIEW

WHERE TO RIDE IN LONDON CENTRAL • Hyde Park Stables, W2 For the ultimate horse riding experience, trot along ‘Rotten Row’ and alongside The Serpentine lake. Lessons for all levels as well as Pony Club sessions.

hydeparkstables.com

NORTH • London Equestrian Centre, N12 Family-run and set in 34 acres on the Mill Hill/Finchley border. Pony days, lessons, hacking, sessions for tiny tots, livery and birthday parties.

Giddy Up! DESPITE BEING A HUGE CITY, LONDON HAS A WEALTH OF HORSE RIDING OPTIONS ON OFFER. TIME TO SADDLE UP…

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f you grew up horsey, constantly smelling of saddle soap and used to getting up early to muck out your pony, before dashing off to school, then you’ll know what we mean when we say we miss the country. Doubtless, you’ll want your little ones to learn to ride themselves, too. Not only are horses wonderful, calming creatures but they can also enhance childhood. They imbue a sense of responsibility in children early on, get them outside and breathing the fresh (ish, remember the hay!) air and doing exercise all at the same time.

But just because you live in the city, it doesn’t mean you can’t get out for a gallop.

London is, not that you’d know it, full of riding opportunities. From hacking in Hyde Park to lessons with a countryside feel in a leafy London village, there’s horseplay all around. You just have to know where to look.

We’ve rounded up the best places to take your children riding, whether you’re after a taster session or a more substantial outing.

And when your little Londoners are well and truly besotted with their four-legged friends, then check out the clever Pony Share Membership scheme at the Shetland Pony Club just outside London. And you never know, you might just fancy getting back on board yourself. We know we’d love to. L

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHETLAND PONY CLUB

2 Look the part with these gorgeous accessories for budding riders!

• Wimbledon Village Stables, SW19 With 25 horses and ponies, lessons take place on nearby Wimbledon Common or in the riding school.

wvstables.com

• Dulwich Riding School, SE21 Runs ‘own a pony’ days, riding in Dulwich Park, group or individual lessons and birthday parties. Family-run and owned for over 50 years.

dulwichridingschool.co.uk

EAST • Aldersbrook Riding School, E12 Based on the Wanstead Flats, this charming School offers lessons, picnic hacks, holiday competitions and even theatrical plays with the ponies!

aldersbrookriding.com

WEST • Stag Lodge, Richmond Park, SW15 From Shetland pony sessions to dressage and jumping for the more advanced, there are also Pony Week courses and outings to big equestrian events.

ridinginlondon.com

• Ealing Riding School, W5

ealingridingschool.net

FURTHER AFIELD

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• Shetland Pony Club, Cobham, KT11

1. JOULES HALF ZIP SWEATSHIRT FROM £19.95 JOULES.COM 2. PINK HAT SILK £15 LUVPONIES.COM 3. HORSE PLAY PILLOWCASE, £10 JOULES.COM

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

SOUTH

For children aged five and over, there are ‘own a pony’ days, stable management and pony handling lessons. Also a tack shop.

HOT TO TROT! 1

londonridingschool.com

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Plan the perfect pony party complete with invitations, rosettes and party bags.

Just off the A3 or the M25, you can bond with one of their ponies through the Pony Share Membership scheme.

shetlandponyclub.co.uk

Family Forest Getaways Short breaks in the New Forest

A relaxing retreat in beautiful surroundings or an action-packed family break, our award-winning five star holiday village has it all.

Book now & save

15%

ON ALL MAY & JUNE BREAKS* Quote FAMILY1

when booking Pet free and pet friendly accommodation available *Book before For a brochure or to make a booking 23 May 2015

0844 693 1336 or visit sandyballs.co.uk LUXURY LODGES

HOLIDAY HOMES

TOURING

CAMPING

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 www.thelittlelondonmusicschool.com NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE • CHISWICK

Classes for curious minds! little Science

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Age 3-4 Age 4-7 Age 8+ (Big Science)

little house of

Science

little maths Age 2-3 Age 3-4

www.littlehouseofscience.com

For children who love science and numbers, Little House of Science is a place for children to learn, experiment, explore and play! www.littlehouseofscience.com T: 0800 092 1062 info@littlehouseofscience.com

little Discovery Age 6-12 months Age 12-18 months

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WHAT’S ON

AG E N DA LIANNE KOLIRIN TELLS US WHAT’S ON IN THE CAPITAL

U D D E R B E LLY F E S TIVAL Runs until 19 July.

ALL ABOAR D TH E H O GWAR T S E XP R E S S

ALI C E ’ S A DVE NTU R E S I N WO N D E R L AN D

Open daily, see website for further details.

Various dates in July and on Saturday

Visitors to the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour can now head for Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express. Pose with a luggage trolley as it disappears through the platform wall and uncover the secrets of these magical movies.

1 August. Check website for details.

Admission: Under-fours go free, children £25.50, adults £33 and family ticket £101.

Celebrating the 150th anniversary, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland returns for families at Opera Holland Park. Composed

by Will Todd, the production takes place in the magical surroundings of Holland Park’s gardens and features a live orchestra and all the characters from the classic book.

A whole host of fun heads to the Southbank Centre with this year’s annual Udderbelly Festival. Enjoy The Showstoppers’ Fantastical Story Factory where the audience decides where the story is set, what happens and who the characters are. Also coming to the big purple cow to entertain the whole family is Phil Ellis with his Funz and Gamez. He’s bringing along some friends too; Jim Elf and Bonzo the dog who will ensure it’s a gigglepacked hour of family fun where anything could happen.

Admission: £10-£15.

Part of the Udderbelly Festival at Southbank

Admission: Children £5, adults £10.

Centre, Jubilee Gardens, off Belvedere Road,

Leavesden WD25 7LR

Holland Park, Ilchester Place, W8 6LU

SE1 8XX

0845 084 0900

020 7361 3570

0844 545 8282

wbstudiotour.co.uk

operahollandpark.com

udderbelly.co.uk

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Studio Tour Drive,

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WHAT’S ON

S H R E K’ S A DVE NTU R E ! LO N DO N

R BC R AC E FO R TH E KI D S

P L AY I N A WE E K

The attraction opens in July.

Sunday 7 June, 9.30am.

Monday 20 to Friday 24 July. See website for

This brand new attraction invites you to step into your own madcap adventure. Ride a magical London bus and enjoy 10 fairy-tale themed shows with amazing animation and captivating storytelling.

Ideal for families, the race is in aid of Great Ormond Street and is suitable for all ages and abilities and participants can run, walk or jog.

specific times.

Admission: Children from £18.72 and adults

Battersea Park, Albert Bridge Road, SW11 4NJ

from £23.40.

020 7239 3270

Unicorn Theatre, 147 Tooley Street London SE1 2HZ

Shrek’s Adventure! London, Riverside Building,

raceforthekids.co.uk

020 7645 0560

Admission: Registration fee is £16 for adults, £11 for children (5-16) and free for infants.

P U S S I N BO OT S Wednesday 17 to Sunday 28 June.

TH E FAI R I N TH E S Q UAR E Saturday 13 June, 12.30-5.30pm.

The Hornsey School for Girls Steel Band and dancers and musicians will perform on stage.

Younger visitors can enjoy creative activities in the kids’ tent, Punch and Judy, rides, circus skills workshops and a sheep shearing show.

Admission: Free, though there may be a small

Admission: £450 for the week.

unicorntheatre.com

County Hall, London SE1 7PB shreksadventure.com

Participants aged seven to 10 work with a professional director and the Unicorn’s prop and costume store and technical team.

Ending with a performance.

With smoke and mirrors discover how this sure-footed feline fools both the King and the Ogre to put his master at the top.

Admission: £13.50.

Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888

N E W LE G O F R I E N D S AR E A AT LE G O L AN D Open daily but opening times vary.

Heartlake Mall provides the backdrop for new live show Friends to the Rescue! Fans can then enjoy a gentle train journey on the Heartlake City Express, before heading to Emma’s Ice Cream Parlour.

Admission: Prices vary.

polkatheatre.com

charge for certain attractions.

Legoland, Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY

Pond Square, Highgate, N6

ALL ABOAR D

0845 373 2640

fairinthesquare.co.uk

Open 10am to 6pm Saturday to Thursday and

legoland.co.uk

11am to 6pm on Fridays.

ARC H IK I D S F E S TIVAL Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July.

Archikids is Open-City’s family festival of architecture, the festival encourages children aged five to 11 to discover the City’s fantastic buildings and architecture

London Transport Museum’s new play zone invites kids to get on the bus, sail the Thames Nipper, and fly the Emirates Air Line.

Admission: Children go free. Adults pay £16 for unlimited admission for a year.

London Transport Museum, Covent Garden

Admission: Free.

Piazza, London WC2E 7BB

Various locations within the Square Mile.

020 7565 7299

archikids.org.uk

ltmuseum.co.uk

C R E ATE AN D B U I L D Workshops run in Clapham Junction, Wednesdays (4pm), Putney, Thursdays (4pm).

Run by award-winning The Build It Workshop, Create and Build are after-school construction workshops aimed at children aged four plus. Sessions last 75 minutes.

Admission: £10.50.

thebuilditworkshop.com

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WHAT’S ON

GAR D E N S F E S TIVAL

A J U D ITH KE R R R E TRO S P E CTIVE

LO N DO N M OTH E R S C LU B

Sunday 7 June, 12-4pm.

Monday 29 June until October.

Friday 19 June, from 8pm.

Head to the Horniman for a day of family events and workshops inspired by the museum’s gardens.

Have tea with a tiger or curl up in Mog’s basket. Enjoy a showcase of artwork by one of Britain’s best loved authors.

Horniman Museum and Gardens, 100 London

adults £7.50. Family ticket £18.

London Mothers Club has run a series of fun and successful supper club evenings. Dads also welcome at what promises to be a fun night of wonderful food and cocktails.

Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ

Jewish Museum, Raymond Burton House,

a welcome drink, a two-course meal and half a

020 8699 1872

Camden Town, London NW1 7NB

bottle of wine.

horniman.ac.uk

020 7284 7384

Bread Street Kitchen, 10 Bread Street, EC4M 9AJ

jewishmuseum.org.uk

londonmothersclub.com

G R E E NWI C H + DO CKL AN D S I NTE R NATI O NAL F E S TIVAL

I N WITH TH E LE M U R S

M I N I O N MA D N E S S

Friday 26 June to Sunday 5 July. Event times

Open 10am to 6pm daily, last entry at 5pm.

Open daily, times vary.

vary, see website for details.

Visitors can get closer than ever to 15 ring-tail lemurs and one black and white ruffed lemur in the new walk-though exhibit at ZSL London Zoo.

Gambado Chelsea is hosting Minion Madness this June. There will be appearances from the yellow fellas, as well as a medley of activities to coincide with the Minions film.

ZSL London Zoo, Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY

Gambado Chelsea, 7 Station Court, Townmead

Admission: Free.

0344 225 1826

Road, London SW6 2PY

Venues across outdoor spaces in London

zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo

0207 384 1635

Admission: Free.

GDIF2015 brings together awesome, nighttime spectaculars with street theatre, art installations and alfresco dance, all coming together to showcase Royal Greenwich and East London at its most creative.

Admission: Under-fives go free. Children £3.50 and

Admission: Prices vary, see website for details.

LE E VALLE Y PAR K FAR M S Open daily, 10am to 5pm.

HYP E R JAPAN Friday 10 to Sunday 12 July.

The UK’s biggest celebration of Japanese culture, cuisine and entertainment is back and there’s plenty for kids at HYPER JAPAN.

Admission: Prices vary, see website for details.

gambado.com/clubs/chelsea/

020 8305 1818 festival.org

Admission: £45 for the evening, which includes

Lee Valley Park Farms has a new outdoor play area for kids to let off steam. Also make friends with the pigs, llamas and meerkats.

Admission: Under-twos go free. Older children £8.50 and adults £9.50.

FAM I LY DAY AT TH E NATI O NAL TH E ATR E Saturday 6 June.

Aimed at six years plus, discover the skills and secrets behind productions with these Beauty and the Beast workshops.

Admission: Prices vary.

Lee Valley Park Farms, Stubbins Hall Lane,

The O2 Arena, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX

Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 2EF

National Theatre, London SE1 9PX

0844 824 4824

01992 892 781

020 7452 3000

hyperjapan.co.uk

visitleevalley.org.uk

nationaltheatre.org.uk

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Admission: Child £3, adult £5.

WHAT’S ON

Family Festivals Special

3FOOT FESTIVAL

STANDON CALLING

BLISSFIELDS

30 June to 2 July

31 July to 2 August

Friday 3 and Saturday 4 July

Celebrating the festival’s 10th birthday, this year expect a whole heap of fun. Head to Chelmsford to see Glastonbabies, a giant sandpit, All Star Mini Kickers, Baby Ballet, Little Stars Theatre and a whole lot more!

It’s a festival with a swimming pool! Regular activities in their designated kids area include face painting, creative crafts, storytelling, yoga classes and drama workshops. And it’s just 40 minutes from London.

chelmsford.gov.uk/3foot

standon-calling.com

Growing as a festival for local families, Blissfields began its venture back in 2001.

Still keeping families at the core of all the festival fun, this year sees the return of Angel Gardens to keep little ones’ weekend action packed with everything from creative crafts to sports day fun.

LATITUDE

BIG FEASTIVAL

16-19 July

28-30 August

The incredibly enticing Kids’ Area is where children are entertained all day and into the night with everything from pond dipping and face painting, to helterskelter rides and theatre workshops. They also have a great family campsite, for broods to cosy down in.

Join Jamie Oliver and Alex James and a bucket load of other talents on Alex’s idyllic Cotswolds farm. Offering a feast for the whole family, this year’s Big Top, presented by Mini nom nom’s, will be cooking up a storm with a big voyage of discovery, with yoga moves, storytelling, jam sessions and dance lessons inspired by travels around the world.

SHAMBALA

jamieoliver.com/thebigfeastival

shambalafestival.org

This multi-award winning festival features a truly enormous children’s area with a host of thrilling activities. This year’s Go Wild theme sees plenty of wild superstars flock to Dorset, with Michaela Strachan’s Really Wild Adventures, How to Birdwatch with Bill Oddie. Alongside the National Trusts 50 Things Meadow and Live Mammal Meetings and whole heap more.

FOODIES FESTIVAL

KENDAL CALLING

Various dates in July

30 July to 2 August

July is the month for feasting in London as Foodies Festival goes North and South of the River at Alexandra Palace, 3,4,5, July and Clapham Common 24,25,26. There’ll be plenty on the menu for little foodies, including the Children’s Cookery Theatre where kids can put their skills to the test.

Expect a fun-filled weekend for all the family at this Kendal Calling festival situated in the beautiful Lake District. Little ones can get involved with a variety of daily workshops, turn their hands to costume making, check out Dr Zigs Bubbles Show and take part in their legendary parade.

campbestival.net

foodiesfestival.com

kendalcalling.co.uk

Hylands Park, Chelmsford, Essex

Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk latitudefestival.com

CAMP BESTIVAL 30 July to 2 August

Lulworth Castle, Dorset

Standon, Hertfordshire

Kingham, Oxfordshire OX7 6UJ

Alexandra Palace and Clapham Common

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Vicarage Farm, near Winchester, Hampshire blissfields.co.uk

27-30 August

A magical place for families, Shambala go the extra mile to make sure little ones are at home in the fields – they even provide kid-sized loos. We love the Family Yurt where you can nestle down with your mini festivallers and listen to a bedtime story.

Secret Country Estate, Northamptonshire

Lowther Deer Park, Hackthorpe, Cumbria

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Think the unthinkable...

thethat unthinkable... a holiday withThink toddlers actually feels like a holiday! aa holiday holiday with with toddlers toddlers that that actually actually feels feels like like aa holiday! holiday!

Gitcombe Gitcombe House House Country Country Cottages Cottages & & Leisure Leisure Spa Spa

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

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B Stylish and unique family portraits by fashion photographer Helene Sandberg

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Children

bethanblasephotography children’s portraits, family, newborn

Capture your children’s spirit and personality through beautiful location photographs, taken in your own home or favourite location

www.theyoungonesportraits.com

Gift Vouchers available • Tel: 07939447786 • Email: bethan@bethanblasephotography.com or visit the website: www.bethanblasephotography.com

helene@helenesandberg.com | 07796 172 434

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GROUPS & CLASSES

Gymboree

Little House of Science

AWARD-WINNING AND INTERACTIVE CLASSES

FUN AND IMAGINATIVE CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS

Gymboree’s commitment to quality is unsurpassed and every day thousands of parents and carers across the UK choose them because they want the best for themselves and their children.

The team has a simple goal: to provide the best play and learn, art and music classes for newborn to five year olds in the world! With over 30 years of experience, their classes and activities are based on a blend of early childhood development theories, with years of hands-on experience.

Gymboree’s tried-and-tested formula of physical, social, sensory and imaginary elements make for 45 minutes of fun. Enjoy challenging and age-appropriate activities which help your little ones through the crucial early stages. Themes, props and set-ups change frequently.

Members also get exclusive access to Open Gym free play sessions at their site. Little ones can bring any adult along with them to play in a clean, colourful and safe environment with purpose-built equipment. Art classes start from 18 months and let children be the artist.

Self-expression and creativity are inspired by painting, drawing, printing and more. Music classes run from six months, using a global mix of language and genres from ‘the classics’ to more modern sounds.

Sensory Baby Play classes start from newborn and feature sensory and physical stimulation from a varied mix of props and activities. Little ones become attentive and interested in their growing understanding of the world through songs, tactile play, physical games and more.

Free trial classes available at: Bayswater and Notting Hill, Bethnal Green, Bromley, Chiswick, Clapham, Docklands, Ealing, East Dulwich, Hampstead, Harrow, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Putney, Wandsworth and Wimbledon.

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.

The very best football coaching for toddlers and children aged from 18 months up to seven years. Nippers arefrom 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).

Busy Bakers

Fun, fitness and music

PERFECT PARTY ENTERTAINMENT

WEEKLY CLASSES IN CHISWICK, CHELSEA, KEW, WANDSWORTH, PARSONS GREEN AND SWISS COTTAGE

t: 0800 092 1062 e: info@littlehouseofscience.com gymboree-uk.com

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t: 0800 092 1062 e: info@littlehouseofscience.com littlehouseofscience.com

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

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Football Coaching At Kiddikicks

t: 020 7937 7965 e: info@kiddikicks.co.uk kiddikicks.co.uk

Amanda’s Action Club offers unique and stimulating active music sessions for toddlers.

Using their own modern nursery rhymes and versatile props, they provide endless interactive activities. Action Club has worked closely with the leading UK early years expert Laura Henry who has linked their programme to the early years foundation stage.

At Amanda’s Action Club the motto is ‘We dance, we sing, we learn through the music and most importantly of all, we have fun!’.

See their website for further information and to find a class near you. t: 01895 623 999 e: info@amandasactionclub.co.uk amandasactionclub.co.uk

A win FOR THE WARDROBE L

ittle Flock of Horrors have teamed up with Little London to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a Little Flock of Horrors outfit worth up to £50!

Little Flock of Horrors is New Zealand’s hottest, new children’s label, fusing edgy design, adventurous colour and a lot of attitude into a chic line of 100% Merino wool clothing.

With bold colours, fun designs and sizing from three months up to seven years, the prize is a Little Flock of Horrors outfit of your choice to the value of £50.

littleflockofhorrors.co.uk

To enter visit littlelondon.co.uk/competitions

HOLDEN WEARS #1 T-SHIRT, £26 DANDY STAR BLAKE SHORTS, £51 STELLA MCCARTNEY KIDS WIMBLEDON HEADBAND, £6 THE WIMBLEDON SHOP WRISTBAND MADE FROM CUSTOMISED “LUCKY” SOCKS, £7 DANDY STAR

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STOCKIST INFORMATION

FREOrder hol the b E gu your ida es ide y d t fa to est mi ina l y tion s

We have researched the best luxury family holidays worldwide

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01279 639600

www.familyholidayscompany.com

BOUTIQUES ONLINE BOUTIQUE

ONLINE BOUTIQUE

ONLINE BOUTIQUE

MINI RODINI

SMALLABLE

BUBBLECHOPS

Founded in 2006 by Swedish illustrator Cassandra Rhodin, Mini Rodini is a playful, bright and bold label that focuses on creativity and humour. The collection is primarily based on Rhodin’s animal and circus-inspired prints that offer children the chance to dress in a way that matches their own personality, mood and creativity. The seriously cool yet very much functional pieces are sure to have both parent and child smiling, and we can’t get enough of their Pug Print collection!

With over 350 international and local designer brands, there literally is no better place to get your online fashion fix. The mini equivalent of ASOS, the site mixes high-end with more affordable brands and features everything from babywear, furniture, interior ideas as well as a little something for yourself.

Trendy, edgier collections from the likes of Stella McCartney and Eleven Paris can be found alongside more timeless lines like Tartine et Chocolat and Bonnet à Pompon.

Just launched is independent childrenswear retailer BubbleChops. There’s an amazing line up of brands celebrating the launch of the website, with limited-edition dresses from Aravore, unisex pieces from Tinycottons, Liberty prints, classic cashmere not to mention the international debut collection from Whimsigirl. And if you’re a sucker for shoes then you’ll adore the handmade shoes

by The Little Shoemaker, in an exclusive design available only on BubbleChops.

minirodini.com

smallable.com

bubblechops.com

HOP LIKE A BUNNY

KIDSEN

OLIVE LOVES ALFIE

Frequented by the more understated amongst Holland Park’s trendiest families, this little boutique is home to a whole host of super cool but equally relaxed, under-the-radar childrenswear labels. The likes of American Outfitters, BelleRose and edgy Scandi brands such as Soft Gallery and Mini A Ture all come together under one brilliantly fashionforward, kid-friendly roof. Its selection of interior products is brilliant too.

Founded by resident Swede Corina Papadopoulou and husband Franco Ofili, this fun and friendly children’s store stocks all the Scandinavian inspired goodies you could ever desire. It’s a worthwhile visit if you’re looking for something that is a little more original, plus we’re huge fans of their mission “to take the hard work out of finding beautiful things for your kids (that don’t cost the earth)”.

Sounds like our kind of shopping!

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

12 Portland Rd, W11 4LA hoplikeabunny.co.uk

111 Chamberlayne Road, NW10 3NS kidsen.co.uk

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

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BOUTIQUES

LA COQUETA KIDS

ASPACE

SCOTCH SHRUNK & R’BELLE

Putting a contemporary spin on classic designs you’ll find a range of adorable items for ages zero to 12 at La Coqueta, including little Bermuda shorts with braces for boys and very sweet smock dresses with Peter Pan collars and cosy, cashmere cardigans for girls. The traditional elements of the brand’s designs are balanced by fun, retro patterns and cuts, creating a collection that has timeless appeal but with a modern twist.

For all of your interior needs, pay a visit to ASPACE. They have been furniture experts for over 20 years so are more than qualified when it comes to creating beautiful interiors.

We also love their fantastic selection of bedding for boys and girls, alongside their brilliant storage solutions. With eight stores across the globe, London is lucky enough to home four of ASPACE’s boutiques, so go on, set the interior designer in you free.

Amsterdam’s Scotch & Soda has finally made its way to London and it won’t be long until we’re all dressing with a touch more colour and attitude. The best bit is the brand’s “no fuss” approach to childrenswear – Scotch Shrunk, the boy’s collection, and Scotch R’Belle, the girls collection, are literally the adult collections but just shrunk down to “little brother and sister” sizes. Both continue the brand’s unique, vintage style.

5 Heath Street, London NW3 6TP lacoquetakids.com

Stores across London aspace.co.uk

Stores across London scotch-soda.com/gb/en

JOJO MAMAN BÉBÉ

JACADI

AMAIA

With a competitively priced yet superb range that includes literally everything you could possibly need for young family life. From maternity wear, baby and childrenswear to toys, home décor and all the pieces in between, Jojo has earned itself a well-deserved reputation. And with ‘drawing areas’ to keep your little ones occupied, shopping at any one of the child-friendly boutiques is enjoyable for all sorts of reasons!

Based in Paris, Jacadi reinterprets the latest French trends to make adorable mini outfits for fashion-conscious kids up to 12 years. This luxury-clothing label has everything from coats to shoes, all designed with timeless cuts and beautiful materials. Head to Jacadi for adorable liberty print dresses, sweet Peter Pan collared blouses and luxurious but light cashmere goodies that are perfect for cooler summer days. They even have a furniture line!

A pink-painted boutique on the corner of Chelsea Green, Amaia stocks adorably smart attire and shoes for babies, boys and girls.

Owners, Amaia from Spain and Segolene from France, design the hugely enviable childrenswear collection, ensuring there’s always be a hint of continental chic about the collection. Sourcing fabrics from all over Europe, the team are experts in creating beautiful outfits for young ones.

Stores across London jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Stores across London jacadi.com/en

14 Cale Street London, SW3 3QU amaiakids.co.uk

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INTERVIEW

What inspired you to set up bobo kids?

I have a passion for interior design and mixing contemporary with vintage pieces, I also come from a family of artists, so it seemed natural to set up bobo kids. When I arrived in the UK from France, I wanted to offer pieces which would encourage kids to be interested in contemporary art, and also enable good design to flow throughout the entire home.

Can you tell us a bit about family life?

Mia is now eight, we’re very close and she has a great sense of humour. We laugh a lot. We dance, we sing, we have the same craziness!

How do you juggle everything?

THE BUSINESS WE CHAT TO THE FOUNDER OF BOBO KIDS, JULIE HAMON, ON JUGGLING WORK AND MOTHERHOOD IN LONDON

A good balance is extremely important and I manage to juggle with help. Mia’s had the same nanny since she was born so she’s like a grandma to her. Recently I’ve been lucky enough to spend extra time at home, allowing us to enjoy more one-to-one moments.

What are your tips for someone looking to set up a business?

To have a realistic and serious business plan, deeply analyse your competitors, and what you could offer. Have a good knowledge of all the marketing and social media involved, too.

What are your London hotspots?

Holland Park is my favourite park! I love Shoreditch for all its new and up and coming shops; Somerset House for its romantic view and Tom’s Kitchen for delicious food.

Julie set up her shop on Chelsea Green in 2007

What’s your style when decorating a kid’s bedroom?

What are your proudest achievements for bobo kids?

To still be running a successful business and flagship store with online competition. But also the time spent with parents through our interior design service, creating their kid’s rooms and making wishes come true.

Any exciting plans you can share?

We’ve just launched our in-house furniture line – ‘furniture by bobo kids’. We’re planning to add new innovative pieces this year, too. L bobokids.co.uk

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BOBO KIDS, 29 ELYSTAN ST, CHELSEA GREEN, LONDON SW3 3NT

To mix modern furniture with pure lines against vintage pieces that will add charm to the room. I love mixing them! I also love to find clever storage solutions and use touches of colours to warm up the room without forgetting the lights for the atmosphere.

www.designersremix.com

Luxury Nursery & Children’s Interiors, Furniture & Gifts

+44 (0)1507 608 251 | Gigibrooks.com Customerservices@gigibrooks.com