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WELCOME I was five years old when I learnt to ride a bike. My dad had made a make-shift handle and attached it to the back, and I’d been pedalling away as fast as my little legs could take me, blissfully unaware that he’d let go. I could do it all by myself! Out of sheer amazement, I then of course crash-landed to the ground – but isn’t that all part of the fun? London is a superb place to start pushing those pedals. I caught up with dad-of-two Sir Chris Hoy, as he shares his secrets on how to get kids on two wheels (p.50). Speaking of fatherhood, 17 June is a day dedicated to the dads in our lives. To celebrate we caught up with brothers, fathers, and managing directors of Jude’s ice cream (p.98) Chow and Alex Mezger. I can’t promise you won’t be hankering for an ice cream afterwards though! It’s been wonderful to see Londoners basking in the precious sunlight over the past few weeks. And for me, this marks the start of it all – the shades are out and they are staying on. Each summer I make a vow to myself to see something new in the capital, be it a new venue, an area I’ve never trekked to or a park I’ve never explored. This year, you’ll find me looking confused and devouring strawberries at the tennis. Wimbledon, here I come! If, like me, you’re looking at more ways to discover the amazing city we live in, then our what’s-on guide on p.91 will see you and the kids breeze through the longer days. Plus, make sure the brood look the part with our scorching reader offer – a free pair of kids’ sunglasses from Monkey Monkey, find out more on p.78. And if all that wasn’t enough summer excitment, check out how you could win £500 to spend at Mini Boden (p.19). Enjoy!
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FE ATU R ES 19 WIN ! A £ 500 GIFT VOUCHER FROM MINI BODEN Celebrate the launch of Boden’s new store with our competition
30 MY LITTLE LONDON Maggie Bolger, CEO and co-founder of Maggie & Rose, talks parenting in the city
32 LONDON CALLING We celebrate the capital in this selection of the best reads for kids
46 “MOTHERHOOD HAS GIVEN ME PERSPECTIVE I NEVER KNEW I HAD” Scarlett Johansson opens up about motherhood, movies and #Metoo
50 ON YOUR BIKE
59 TRAVEL NEWS What’s new in the world of family travel?
60 POSTCARD FROM ITALY Louise Pyne heads to Tuscany for the ultimate family holiday
63 CLOSE TO HOME Swap the city for an idyllic rural getaway
66 THE DELIGHTS OF THE DEEP SOUTH Zoey Goto explores Southern America with her five-year-old daughter
EDUCATION 86 EDUCATION NEWS What’s going on in classrooms and beyond
88 DAD’S THE WORD
We catch up with Sir Chris Hoy to discuss
Rob Kemp explores the growing trend of
bikes, books and being a dad
dad-and-toddler-only playgroups
52 THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF WIGGY Wiggy Hindmarch reveals how she juggles family life with running her fashion label
79 NACHO BOWLS Australian food guru, Donna Hay, shares
R EGUL A R S 13 LITTLE NEWS The latest on all things big in kid world
20 DIARY Dates to note for the next two months
her recipe for this tasty Mexican dish
80 TOP SPOTS FOR LITTLE TUMS
34 INSTA INSPO We meet Natalie Lee at @stylemesunday
A round-up of the best family-friendly restaurants across London
82 DITCH OR SWITCH
70 PARTY TIME WITH CAROLE MIDDLETON Plan your own summertime street party
Uncovering the so-called ‘health foods’ that aren’t as virtuous as you might think
SHO PPIN G & ST YLE 23 LITTLE LOVES
73 INTERIOR NEWS Inspiring finds from brands big and small
74 GET CRAFTY Seasonal activities to keep kids busy
Step out in style with these fresh kicks from Italian shoe brand Superga
77 FOOD NEWS The latest foodie finds for your mini diners
25 FLY THE FLAG Gear up for the great British summer with PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN MODEL: BETTY HEADBAND, £90, GUCCI AT ALEX AND ALEXA. DRESS, £32, BEAU LOVES AT TROUVA. TOP, FROM £4.50, NEXT. SHORTS, FROM £5.50, NEXT
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these patriotic picks in red, white and blue
36 SPORTS STARS
91 AGENDA The best summer events in the capital
98 THE BUSINESS
Athletic shapes and go-faster stripes take
Behind the scenes with the founders of ice-
high summer fashion to new levels
cream brand Jude’s
7
THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS MAGGIE BOLGER
CHLOË COLLYER
Maggie & Rose co-founder
Creative director
Where do you live?
Where do you live?
Kensington.
Islington.
Greatest family holiday of all time?
When the kids were younger, we rented a villa for six weeks in the South of France. This year we went on a tour across India, which was incredible. Favourite thing about summer in London?
Londoners seem to come out in force – there is much more positive energy radiating from everyone, and every park within the city becomes a beautiful oasis.
Maggie talks city living with her four children in My Little London on p.30
Greatest family holiday of all time?
I had the most amazing family holiday in New Orleans. There’s something to see, eat, listen to or watch round every corner, and the locals are the best. Favourite thing about summer in London?
The city comes alive when it’s warmer, and people make so much more of the outside spaces – pop-ups on rooftops, picnics in the parks and walks along the canal. And everyone’s happier!
little london EDITORIAL
EDITOR REBECCA MOORE SUB EDITOR NATALIE KEELER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ANNIE QUINTON
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS LEONORA BAMFORD, MARISSA HERMER, CAROLE MIDDLETON, EMMA FREUD
DESIGN CREATIVE DIRECTOR CHLOË COLLYER DESIGNERS NATALIE DOURADO, ANNEL CHRISTOPHER
PUBLISHING PUBLISHER CAROLINE SCOTT EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MAXINE BRIGGS CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER VICKI GAVIN DIRECTOR OF MEDIA JAMES DOBSON MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGER GEORGIE WALTON MARKETING & EVENTS EXECUTIVE MEAGAN HYETT
ADVERTISING HEAD OF MARKET LYNDAL BEETON SALES EXECUTIVES CAROLINE KIMBER, JESSICA KNIBBS DIGITAL AND CREATIVE SOLUTIONS MANAGER BEN LEEK MANAGING DIRECTOR PAUL DOBSON DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR STEVE ROSS
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NEWS
little NEWS Updating you on all things big in kid world Scamp & Dude’s new collection is available for kids aged from six months to eight years
LUCKY STRIPES
Scamp & Dude’s Sundowners collection has arrived just in time for your summer holiday. The line includes super soft candy-striped shorts and sweaters in neon shades of yellow, turquoise and coral, with slogan tees, towelling hoodies and a brand-new tiger print, too. scampanddude.com
Treat your kids to the wonders of KidZania all year round with the new annual pass. Visit as often as you like for 12 months, with fast-track entry, five free adult tickets and discounts on selected food and merchandise. £129, kidzania.co.uk LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
13
NEWS
FREE SPIRITS
The latest collection from Outside the Lines has got us truly in the mood for festival season! The girls’ range takes on a quirky Bohemian vibe, with embroidery, pom poms and tassels featuring across a line of shorts, dresses, playsuits and blouses, in a palette of muted shades with flashes of neon. Sizes from age three to 13. outside-the-lines.co.uk
PL AY TI M E P I E C E S
Danish designer Anine Bing is bringing some Scandinavian chic to her new kidswear brand Bing Kids. The collection features comfortable, wearable pieces perfect for playtime, so expect plenty of slogan tees, leather trims and leopard prints for both boys and girls. Sizes from age two. From £27, eu.aninebing.com
Movement for Modern Life is a tool that encourages women to try yoga in the comfort of their own home. Accessed via your device, classes are curated to suit your lifestyle and skill level. From £10.99 per year, movementformodernlife.com
U R BAN TRO P I C S
The new interactive Rainforest Adventure experience at Sea Life London will see you come face to face with some of the Amazon’s most amazing inhabitants, including the Goliath Birdeating Spider. Tickets from £20.40, visitsealife.com/london
Spider spectacles
To celebrate the release of Avengers: Infinity War, Vision Express has launched a range of Spiderman-themed frames. Kids can choose from a bold yellow spider’s web design or a funky comic strip-style pair featuring the hero himself. £20 with an NHS voucher, visionexpress.com
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H IT TH E H I G H N OTE S If your little one is an aspiring vocalist, the new birthday party package from Lucky Voice will send them mad with excitement. Kids can pick songs from a wide selection of music, all the while indulging in mocktails, pizza and cake. From £15 per child, luckyvoice.com
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Discover blissful baby & toddler friendly holidays Everything that parents need for stress free getaways in luxury villas and resorts All private pools barriered
0800 014 2770 www.totstotravel.co.uk
Free 20+ items of baby & toddler kit
30 point child safety check
NEWS
MIFFY AND BALLOON £10 KINGANDMCGAW.COM
H E A D E AS T
What Mother Made is opening its first flagship store in trendy Hackney. Stocking its seasonal collection, you’ll also find a range of footwear, books, toys and lifestyle items on display from other children’s brands, as well as a dedicated section for parents. Customise your buys in-store for a totally unique look. 192 Well Street, London, E9 6QT, whatmothermade.co.uk
MIFFY LAMP £125 TROUVA.COM
MIFFY PORTRAIT LEGGINGS £20 TOBIASANDTHEBEAR.COM
MIFFY BLACKBOARD £29.99 MIFFYSHOP.CO.UK
Modern monochrome
The team at Anamoly have created a playful new line of interior pieces in ever-stylish black and white. The Mono collection includes wallpaper, cushions and aprons in sweet animal prints, from whales to penguins and bears. Mix and match the pieces with colourful accents, or stick to monochrome patterns for a modern take on children’s interiors. ana-moly.co.uk
CROCHET MIFFY £25 SHOP.TATE.ORG.UK
MIFFY CLOCK £27.50 TROUVA.COM
YO U R S TO KE E P
MIFFY AND THE ROYAL BABY £5 MIFFYSHOP.CO.UK
Immortalise your child’s drawings onto a bag of your choice with Honey & Toast. Whether it’s a doodle, drawing or handwritten name, there’s two styles for adults available to personalise – the Etter saddlebag and Eddie shoulder bag – with three styles in the kids’ range. £45 for personalisation, honeyandtoast.co.uk
Hop to it!
She might not look a day over 21, but the month of July sees Dick Bruna’s much-loved Miffy turn 63 years of age. Young at heart, this adorable fluffy friend makes the perfect addition to any kids’ bedroom. miffyshop.co.uk
Keep your kids safe as they surf the internet with the new Family Link app from Google. Parents can set online guidelines on their child’s gadgets, block certain apps and even remotely lock devices. Free, apple.com/itunes LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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NEWS
SUMMER SPLASH The latest kids’ collection from Ted Baker is a riot of colour and digital prints. Patterns range from rainforest designs to oriental blossom, with options for daytime, formalwear and swimming gear, too. tedbaker.com
B E AC H B U M S
Let dad get in on the twinning action with the swim shorts from L’Étale. With sizes for both men and boys, the four limitededition prints include alpacas, bicycles, aliens and ostriches. Snap them up while you can! From £45, letale.co.uk
Dolly girl
Severina Kids has teamed up with linen label Camomile London to create a line of limitededition bedtime dolls. The three designs come in a set of button-down pyjamas, each with their own tiny teddy or miniature cushion. £85, severinakids.com
S H O P ’ TI L YO U D RO P
Discover outdoor and interiors products for both grown-ups and kids at new lifestyle store Beyond the Stork. You’ll find a mix of independent brands – spanning outerwear, interiors, toys and gifts – alongside favourite labels such as Jem + Bea and Cam Cam Copenhagen. beyondthestork.co.uk
Head to Harrods’ fourth floor for the new one-stop-shop for families, bringing together an unrivalled edit of children’s fashion, toys and services. The space is also home to a new toy department, as well as a sweet shop. harrods.com 18
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WIN!
Each design is hand-drawn in the studio by Boden's talented design team
A £500 GIFT VOUCHER FROM
B
ritish fashion brand Boden is renowned for outstanding quality and serious style with an injection of fun, brightening customers’ lives with clothes that make them look and feel fantastic. Since launching its first standalone store in Chelsea last November, Boden has been taking London shoppers by storm, so much so that the brand has now opened up a second shop in Westfield White City. Mini Boden creates adventure-proof clothing for children aged up to 16 years, boasting unique designs with hand-me-down-able quality and colours and prints. The range is created in-house at Boden HQ in West London, by a talented group of print and product designers. From sketch to stitch, the design process often begins with the brand’s memorable prints, each of which are beautifully hand-drawn in the studio by the team. Prepare to fall in love with the hero prints in the summer 2018 range, which feature Surfer Girl and Under The Sea. Whether you’re dining, dancing or deep-sea diving this summer, do it in style with the help of Mini Boden. We can’t get enough of the fluttery feathers and unique details, including pop-up pockets and colour-changing sequins. Best of all, to celebrate the new opening of its second store, Boden is giving away a fantastic £500 voucher to be enjoyed in store or online for one of our very lucky readers. Good luck, and happy shopping! boden.co.uk L
To enter, visit littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/competitions SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. COMPETITION CLOSES 11.59PM ON 30 AUGUST 2018
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19
Little London Awards are back and making a splash with the help of Harbour Club Kensington
you’ll also be automatically entered into a prize draw to win a year’s family membership to Harbour Club Kensington. awards.littlelondon magazine.co.uk
14
Today is your last chance to catch the Kid & Co pop-up shop from Pepa & Co in Notting Hill. Browse a variety of premium children’s brands, with interiors, clothes, toys and skincare on display. Open from 10am to 6pm.
DIARY
What to do and where to go in the capital over the next two months
pepaandcompany.com
June
londonbridgecity.co.uk
The brand-new Sea Creatures: Life Beneath the Ocean exhibit at RHS Lawrence Hall – opening today – is where you’ll learn all about the science and anatomy of sharks, penguins, whales and more. Tickets from
Primary Academy in Kensal Rise, there will be over 40 street food stalls from some of the country’s best loved restaurants and chefs, as well as live music and crafts for kids. Tickets from
1
Head to London Bridge from today to enjoy Summer by the River – an outdoor festival with a packed schedule of events and entertainment running until early September. Themed on an English country garden, attractions include an outdoor cinema, live music and comedy, plus a wide selection of street food. And what’s more, the whole festival is completely free!
20
GINGHAM SMOCKED DRESS £86, PEPAANDCOMPANY.COM
9
Held in East London at The Yard Shoreditch, ShopUp from Babyccino Kids has returned for another season. Explore over 30 independent boutiques, from clothing to toys and interior accessories. And if you’ve got the kids in tow, there’s crafts on hand to keep them occupied while you browse.
£2.50, franklinforktofork.com
£12, seacreaturestour.com
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21
Luna Kids Cinema is screening a number of family-friendly classics over the summer, from The Greatest Showman to Paddington. Venues include Hampton Court Palace and Dulwich Park. Tickets from
How are you celebrating Father’s Day? Show Dad how much he’s loved with a picnic in the park, or maybe just a snuggle on the sofa with a film. Flick to page 88 for our pick of the best groups and classes for fathers and toddlers.
£7.50, lunakidscinema.com
July
Luna Kids Cinema
4
Voting for the Little London Awards 2018 opens today! Work your way through the 23 categories to ensure your parenting favourites bag an award this year. By voting,
Free entry, theshopup.com
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Back for another year, the Fork to Fork festival is perfect for foodies both big and small. Held at Ark Franklin
ShopUp
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FESTIVALS 12-15 JULY: LATITUDE Suffolk’s Latitude Festival has areas on site created just for kids, with an entire programme of activities and events they’ll love. Highlights for 2018 include circus skills, wildlife crafts, family-friendly comedy and live music. And if you’ve got a teenager with
you, the Inbetweeners’ Area is a haven of media, tech and fashion suspended in the trees. latitudefestival.com
the festival boasts the world’s biggest bouncy castle, bikes and go-carts, a separate toddler’s Camp Bestival
26-29 JULY: CAMP BESTIVAL
area and so much more. The line-up features bands, DJs, comedy acts and performances to amuse the whole family. campbestival.net
21-24 JUNE: ISLE OF WIGHT FESTIVAL
Kids rule the roost at Camp Bestival. Held at Lulworth Castle in Dorset,
This much-loved island event has been awarded
20
Family Festival of the Year twice, and with good reason! Not only do under 12s go free with a paying adult, there’s also a dedicated Kids Zone that features magic shows, shadow puppet workshops, costume making and craft sessions. isleofwightfestival.com
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See the world, differently. Warm weather, dramatic scenery and new place to explore every day. A sailing holiday is an adventure for the whole family. You can spot landmarks on the horizon, row the dinghy to a secluded bay, fish off the back of the boat or swim ashore for ice cream. Join a flotilla and keep the little captains happy with beach barbecues, kids’ activities, treasure hunts, and games. Kick back and relax as an expert skipper guides you from dock to deepest blue.
CALL 0330 332 1184 OR BOOK ONLINE
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little loves… Explore the capital this summer in cool and comfortable footwear
Walk this way
Summer steppin’ has never looked so good as Italian shoe brand Superga has the perfect pair for every day of the week. Make the most of sunny days in London with fancy footwear in rose gold, royal red and cool grey, or opt for the playful sticker-style trainers in blue and white, embroidered with gallant ghosts and cheeky lollipops. FROM £32 SUPERGA.CO.UK
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CAYATI SCARF £36 BONPOINT.COM
Fly the f lag EAMES ROCKING ARMCHAIR £424 MINIOBJECTSOFDESIRE.COM
Gear up for the great British summer with these patriotic pieces in red, white and blue
PATACHOU BUTTERFLY DRESS £59.99 PANACHEKIDS.CO.UK
GUCCI FRILL OVERLAY HOODIE £180 HARRODS.COM
GINGHAM SHIRT £30 WHATMOTHERMADE.CO.UK
CHEVRON ANKLE SOCKS £30 CARAMEL-SHOP.CO.UK
KAHUNA SHORTS £22.95 THEBONNIEMOB.COM
DOLCE & GABBANA VELCRO TRAINERS £295 ALEXANDALEXA.COM
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SHOPPING
MILITARY JACKET £160 STELLAMCCARTNEY.COM
MAYORAL GINGHAM PLAYSUIT £34 CHILDRENSALON.COM
BANWOOD BALANCE BIKE £149 THEBABYROOM.CO.UK
GINGHAM DRESS £112 BONPOINT.COM
OLIVER FURNITURE BUNK BED £1,592 SCANDIBORN.CO.UK
CHAMBRAY SHORTS £32 OUTSIDE-THE-LINES.CO.UK
FUB COTTON SWEATER £44.50 FOURFAIRIESANDAPRINCE.COM
WILD & WOLF LIGHT-UP GLOBE £90 JOHNLEWIS.COM
SWIMMER SANDALS £40 SALT-WATERSANDALS.COM
BLOUSE WITH PLEATED BIB £25 JACADI.CO.UK
STRETCHY DENIM JACKET £45 ARKET.COM
MONSOON LONG SLEEVE SHIRT £14 NEXT.CO.UK
POM POM BASKET £18.50 THETIPI.CO.UK
STRIPED JERSEY SHORTS £8 MOTHERCARE.COM
MINI RODINI DOT SWIMSUIT £49 ALEXANDALEXA.COM
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DENIM TROUSERS £71 STELLAMCCARTNEY.COM
OLLI ELLA LUGGY BASKET £45 OUR-KID.CO.UK
VEJA LEATHER SHOES £66 SCANDIMINI.COM
DOUUOD T-SHIRT £44 SMALLABLE.COM
CHLOÉ PLAYSUIT £103 CHILDSPLAYCLOTHING.CO.UK
LITTLE CABARI BED LINEN SET £149 STUDIOMINISHOP.COM
PIPED SHORTS £95 MARIECHANTAL.CO.UK
MICRO SATCHEL £75 ZATCHELS.COM
LITTLE MARC JACOBS SWEATSHIRT £55 CHILDRENSALON.COM
IL GUFO LINEN PLAYSUIT £126 MELIJOE.COM
FISH & KIDS STRIPED PANTS £66 SCANDIMINI.COM
BOSS JELLY SHOES £43 ALEXANDALEXA.COM
PYJAMA SET £24 CYBERJAMMIES.CO.UK
PETIT BATEAU DRESS £40 SMALLABLE.COM
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2018
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Holland Park is great for the kids
PRINTED T-SHIRT £5.99 ZARA.COM
The family will be heading to St Ives this summer
The Maggie & Rose ‘At Home’ range
Celebrating five years of the Maggie & Rose Chiswick Club
When the sun is shining, Maggie and her family love nothing more than a picnic on Hampstead Heath
The Bolger family celebrate Christmas
Weekends are spent exploring Islington
Maggie & Rose Hong Kong opened in 2015
Maggie’s son Ollie at the Natural History Museum
30
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INTERVIEW
My Little London
MAGG I E BOLGE R THE CEO AND CO-FOUNDER OF FAMILY MEMBERS’ CLUB MAGGIE & ROSE, AND MOTHER OF FOUR, TALKS CITY LIVING, HER PARENTING MISSION AND WEEKENDS WITH THE KIDS Maggie loves cooking up recipes and binge-watching TV shows with her kids
use, and because we make it all ourselves, it just made sense for us to start selling them.
Where in London do you call home?
We live in Kensington, which has so much to offer. It’s central with great transport links, and with Holland Park on your doorstep, it’s leafy and great for the kids, too!
Where do you like to go in London for a date night?
I love trying new and different things, and new restaurants are always on my radar. Bun House in Soho is one of my latest finds and I highly recommend it.
INTERVIEW: REBECCA MOORE. PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/THEMAGGIEBOLGER; ISTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK
Describe a typical weekend for you.
Hanging out in our pyjamas is our version of the ultimate family weekend, and we like to be as lazy as possible. This said, we do love cooking crazy recipes in the kitchen from scratch and indulging in lots of yummy dishes. All my kids attended the Maggie & Rose cooking classes, so they’re definitely into their food. We always find time to bingewatch our favourite box sets, too. It’s always a real treat to do this on the weekends, as we’re always so busy getting out and about and doing other things during the week. Where are your favourite places to shop for the kids?
My kids each have their own awesome, unique tastes, so they’re all pretty good at shopping for themselves. However, I love fashion brands like Zara Kids, H&M and Arket Kids. Where is your go-to for a London day out with the kids?
We’ve been heading North as Islington is our latest go-to for a fun food adventure. It’s become a really thriving neighbourhood over the years with so many awesome places to eat and shop – there really is something for everyone. Summer in London is the best with all the greenery and amazing parks. When the sun is shining, we love picnics in Hampstead Heath, but when we’re not so lucky with the weather, we are fortunate LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
enough to have some brilliant museums and galleries right on our doorstep. How did Maggie & Rose begin?
I had my first child at the age of 22, and since none of my friends were having children at that age, I felt I didn’t have anyone who could relate to the experience I was having. I was spending most of my days in brightly coloured soft play areas that – let’s be honest – are a total eyesore, and uninspiring classes that didn’t seem to follow any particular programme. So, I made it my mission to create a space that was cool enough for my friends who didn’t have kids to hang out in, while still being an inspiring and entertaining place for my little ones. This was the start of Maggie & Rose!
You recently opened a nursery in Kensington. Where’s next on the map for London?
The next stop on the Maggie & Rose London journey is Islington, which opens in autumn, and I can’t tell you how excited I am! We’ll be taking three floors in the new Islington Square development and it’s set to be our largest UK venue to date. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled! You’re also expanding overseas... what inspired you to do this?
We were approached by our partners in China, who recognised a need for a space where parents could have fun with their children, away from screens and technology, and where they could create lasting memories together – hence, our overseas expansion.
It sounds like you’re very big on style, is that the main drive for setting up your own ‘At Home’ range last year?
With all these exciting projects going on, have you a family summer holiday planned to take a break?
It’s definitely one of the reasons. I am very set in my ways when it comes to style – I like a certain rustic-chic look and feel, which most brands don’t associate with kids. It’s what has driven the design behind Maggie & Rose and it turns out our members love it! They kept asking where they could buy the products we
My eldest is heading to university this September, so we’ll be spending the summer preparing for the big move. To celebrate though we’ll be enjoying a week with family and friends at a cottage by the sea in gorgeous St Ives down in Cornwall. L
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maggieandrose.com
BOOKS
2-4 YEARS
5-7 YEARS
8-10 YEARS
No, Nancy, No! BY ALICE TAIT
Max The Detective Cat: The Disappearing Diva
Terrible True Tales from the Tower of London
Embark on an action-packed chase across London via the capital’s most famous sights with Nancy and her dog. The book even includes a fold-out map!
BY NICOLA KINNEAR
BY SARAH KILBY AND PETER COTTRILL
Max the detective cat finds himself in a race over the rooftops of London, in a bid to catch a clever thief.
Packed with chucklesome tales from the Tower, including the prisoner who tried to escape through his toilet!
£12.99 • Walker Books
£6.99 • Nosy Crow
£8.99 • Walker Books
Jane Foster’s London
Welcome to London
Emerald Street
BY JANE FOSTER
BY MARCOS FARINA
BY SUSAN MOORE
A stylish celebration of London’s iconic landmarks by designer Jane Foster. With retro-inspired artwork, this will make the perfect gift for a first birthday.
Filled with intricate illustrations, this delightful book features fun activities to keep young travellers entertained as they explore their surroundings.
The second instalment of the Nat Walker trilogy sees our heroine take to the streets of London, where she uncovers some startling secrets about her family.
£6.99 • Templar Publishing
£10.99 • Button Books
£6.99 • Nosy Crow
In Focus: Cities
London Calls!
Mary in London
BY GABBY DAWNAY AND ALEX BARROW
BY GWYNEDD RAE AND CLARA VULLIAMY
BY LIBBY WALDEN
This rollicking rhyming adventure follows a well-dressed pearly grandma and her granddaughter as they take a thrilling tour through the British capital.
Mary takes London by storm in this funny and endearing Mary Plain adventure. A charming book with some beautiful illustrations by Clara Vulliamy.
This super-sized book delves into the identities of 10 famous cities. Lift the giant flaps on every spread to find out more about these iconic destinations.
£7.99 • Tate
£8.99 • Egmont
£15.99 • Little Tiger Press
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LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
INTERACTIVE
London Postcards to Colour These 25 London-themed postcards feature famous London landmarks for little ones to colour in. Look out for Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge and Shakespeare’s Globe! £5.99 • Usborne
London Snap From palace guards to pigeons, this pack of 52 cards includes colourful illustrations of London landmarks, perfect for playing Snap, as well as memory, matching and sorting games.
ILLUSTRATION: NO, NANCY, NO! BY ALICE TAIT; ISTOCK
£5.99 • Usborne
My London Infographic Sticker Book BY KAY BARNHAM
Featuring over 200 stickers, this delightful book is ideal for a trip to the city, long journeys and rainy days. £5.99 • Wayland Books
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
London Calling EMMA O’DONOVAN CELEBRATES THE CAPITAL IN HER ROUND-UP OF THE BEST READS FOR KIDS
FEMINIST NECKLACE £29 ROCKNROSE.CO.UK
GET THE LOOK
RETRO MATTE LIPCOLOUR £18 MACCOSMETICS.CO.UK
I N S TA I N S P O
@stylemesunday SOFT PLAY HELL T-SHIRT £25 WHILEDOLLYSLEEPS.COM
As we celebrate London’s roots, we catch up with Wanstead-based fashion blogger NATALIE LEE
W
ith more than 45,000 followers on Instagram, Natalie Lee launched her blog, Style Me Sunday, following the births of her two children, Alexa, now eight, and Autumn, five. There’s no secret to taking the perfect Instagram shot, she confesses – the beauty of it is that each person’s feed is unique, and you learn to develop your own style.
CROP TOP AND BRIEFS £64 HALFBAKEDLONDON.COM
DUSTER COAT £69 MARKSANDSPENCER.CO.UK
Why did you start your blog, Style Me Sunday?
It’s somewhere I feel at home. What I love most is inspiring people, and hopefully encouraging them to make positive changes in their lives. Is this why you set up the Warrior Woman Project?
It started as a creative outlet while I was on maternity leave with Autumn six years ago. I felt like I needed something other than the kids to occupy my time, and it really helped me establish my identity again.
Yes – the Warrior Woman Project is about breaking down insecurities and not letting anything hold you back. The last event I did was packed with inspiring talks, and the next one is going to be the biggest yet.
The blog’s tagline is ‘Fashion with Feeling’, and there’s a lot of conversation around body image and how we need to smash the idea of traditional beauty standards.
I love @felicityhayward – she inspires me with her fierceness, as does @theslumflower for her #saggyboobsmatter campaign.
What’s your favourite topic to post about?
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What do you love about Instagram?
Who do you like to follow on social media?
What’s next for you?
The Warrior Woman Project is the next big thing you’re likely to see, but I have lots of really exciting projects on the table that will hopefully come to fruition later this year. L
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
ADVERTORIAL
MAG ICAL READS
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Morag Hood & Ella Okstad A wonderfully humorous story, from a new picture book dream-team, Morag Hood and Ella Okstad about a unicorn hiding in plain sight and a little girl who is totally oblivious to his presence despite being a self-declared Unicorn Expert!
A blossoming read, The Secret Sky Garden is beautifully illustrated in line and watercolour
THE SECRET SKY GARDEN
Linda Sarah & Fiona Lumbers Funni loves the old, disused car park, and decides to create a garden in the neglected space, her very own garden in the sky! One day, a little boy, Zoo, spots the square of colour amongst the grey and goes to find it. Soon, flowers aren’t the only things to bloom in the garden, but a very special friendship blossoms too!
GARY’S BANANA DRAMA
Jane Massey Featuring banana dogs, banana moustaches, banana space rockets and an adorable, banana-mad gorilla, this hilarious and vibrant picture book will make children hoot with laughter and fall in love with the hapless Gary.
PRINCESS EVIE’S PONIES: WILLOW THE MAGIC FOREST PONY Sarah KilBride & Sophie Tilley Princess Evie is crazy about her ponies. But Princess Evie’s ponies aren’t like any other ponies – oh no! Her ponies are magic. With press-out pieces and a dressing-up element to play with, kids will love bringing Evie’s adventures to life!
WIN your very own book bundle!
You could win all four of these books, as Simon & Schuster is giving away five sets, along with a Book Den tote bag. Simply enter online at littlelondonmagazine.com/competitions. Plus, if you love picture and story books then sign up to the Book Den at bookden.tumblr.com – the dedicated platform from Simon & Schuster Children’s Books.
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Scarlett played teenage porcupine rocker ‘Ash’ in the 1 ani ated l ing
INTERVIEW
Motherhood has given me perspective I never knew I had SCARLETT JOHANSSON HAS OVER 20 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE IN FILM, BUT BY HER OWN ADMISSION, BECOMING A MOTHER TO ROSE, NOW FOUR, HAS OFFERED UP AN ENTIRELY NEW ROLE. KAREN ANN OVERTON FINDS OUT MORE
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n recent years, Scarlett Johansson has blossomed into a cinematic tour de force. And that’s no mean feat in the current climate - after all, navigating the perilous terrain of the Hollywood landscape is tricky, and when you add political ambitions, social activism and motherhood to the mix, her workload is at times bewildering. But perhaps it was always meant to be this way for the spirited 33-year-old. After all, her career began in rhythms of an Asian whirlwind, as she landed an intelligent and multi-faceted role in indie sleeper hit Lost in Translation, directed by Sofia Coppola. While the mainstream beckoned, the New York-raised actress kicked back hard at being stereotyped and sexualised as the gazing blonde ingénue. And in maintaining integrity, grace, effortless quirkiness and a daring streak
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Scarlett at the Los Angeles Women’s March back in January
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that saw her excel in films like Under the Skin and Luc Besson’s Lucy, Scarlett has become a very acceptable role model to both single parents and those juggling children and partners. “Motherhood has given me perspective I never knew I had,” she admits, “and that feels amazing”. Hitting headlines for her work as a feminist activist – giving a rousing speech at the Women’s March in Washington last year, and more recently in Los Angeles this year – has also seen her become a prominent figure of the Time’s Up movement. “I think empowerment is a buzzword that won’t now go away,” she says. “This isn’t a fad, it’s a movement that has an anchor in modern society, and while it’s important for the current generation, it’s even more important for our children, because this is a very real set of standards we are creating for them to benefit from, to inherit, and to take forward.” Part of this driven approach to current affairs is down to Scarlett’s own evolution
INTERVIEW
as a woman, but since becoming a mother to Rose in 2014, the actress appears to have become even more impassioned than ever, referencing her daughter several times during her Women’s March speeches. “I would like to my daughter to grow up with the awareness that she can go into the world and pursue whatever she wants in life without fear. At the very least I would like her to have the spirit to go out and try to achieve a lot, but also accept the fact that in life sometimes you’re going to win and sometimes you’re going to lose,” she says proudly. “I look at my daughter and I want to fill her with all the courage, optimism and love that means she can go out in the world and do something special, just as any parent would.” Sometimes being an independent woman means having to go it alone, and following the demise of her three-year marriage to actor Ryan Reynolds, it looked as if the star had found her ‘happily ever after’ with French journalist Romain Dauriac, whom she wed
The actress shares custody of Rose with her ex-husband, French journalist Romain Dauriac
in 2014. Sadly, the couple divorced in 2017, and while the separation hasn’t been without its moments of acrimony, she and Dauriac are said to be on good terms as they share custody of four-year-old Rose. Naturally this new arrangement means Johansson will often have her daughter on set with her, as was the case when she was filming sci-fi thriller Ghost in the Shell. But when asked if this posed logistical problems, the actress shrugs her shoulders and replies simply: “I have a job that’s very advantageous in that way – I can parent and then go do the scene, then go back and parent. There’s a bit of back-and-forth but it works.” Nor does Scarlett believe that motherhood has altered the sorts of roles she will take in the future. “Again, it’s a job that works with you; I have a freedom that others don’t, so I’m grateful,” she says. “It hasn’t changed the way I work, but it might in future… we will see.” From playing an apathetic teen in Ghost World to embodying one of the feistiest female superheroes ever as the ‘Black Widow’, Rose will certainly be in awe of her mother’s tremendous contribution to modern cinema. As a responsible parent though, Scarlett won’t
be exposing the four-year-old to too much of her back catalogue, revealing that the only film that her daughter has seen so far is the one where her mother appears as an animated punk rock porcupine. “Sing, I’m sure, is the only one… I’ll need to have a look back at the others but, off the top of my head, most of the other movies will have to wait,” she says with a laugh. “I’m not sure how much of an impact any of it is making right now, but absolutely, in the future, I want her to know and absorb the lesson of working hard and going for your dreams and making it happen.” Having started her own career very young – Johansson landed her first professional gig aged just 10 in the fantasy film North – the actress is fully aware of how important it is to protect precocious but vulnerable children. She clearly yearns for a candid relationship with Rose as her daughter gets older. “Communication is fundamental,” she says. “I would like her to feel that she doesn’t need to keep any secrets from me and that she should be free to tell me everything.” “I’ve never liked the feeling when I’ve been bossed around, so I hope that I won’t be too 48
With Chris Evans and Don Cheadle as ‘Black Widow’ in Avengers: Infinity War
strict or domineering as a mother.” Johansson’s own childhood, as one of five, was a humble one with modest means. Obviously, neither financial constraints nor lack of a support network are going to be an issue to the multimillionaire, even if she chooses to expand her brood. “I think it’s one step at a time,” she says. “We have a really nice family unit at the moment – two people who adore each other, and I don’t feel the need to look too far beyond that. “I admire the freedom I have as well, and have never considered that having a child has taken away any part of that. I would never want to be boxed in like that – I can throw a few punches, after all!” L LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY; SPLASH NEWS; EMMA MCINTYRE/GETTY IMAGES; GREGORY PACE/REX/SHUTTERSTOCK
We have a really nice family unit... I don’t feel the need to look too far beyond that
REAL RIDERS NEED REAL BIKES
The new HOY range is now available to buy exclusively at Evans Cycles. Still the best fit for small riders, with easy-to-use controls and now lighter than ever. evanscycles.com
INTERVIEW
On your bike REBECCA MOORE CATCHES UP WITH SIX-TIME OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALLIST, SIR CHRIS HOY, TO TALK BIKES, BOOKS AND BEING A DAD
When did you first get on a bike?
And once kids are more familiar?
I was six years old. I remember going to visit my friends, one was the same age as me and the other was four. Both could ride and I couldn’t, and I was thinking I’m not having that! So we went to this little courtyard area in Napier College [now Edinburgh Napier University] and I learned to ride my bike there and then. That’s the reason I named the Evans balance bike Napier as that’s where it all began for me.
Once they’re used to cycling, while it might be tempting to stick to grass, this will actually be more challenging to pedal on. A smooth, tarmac surface, that is still relatively open and away from traffic, is ideal as it helps the child to pick up some rolling momentum and gauge how the bike responds to their body movements. There are some great places to ride around London – such as Victoria Park, Hyde Park and Richmond Park.
Callum loves riding a bike! He’s now three and a half, but learned to ride on his balance bike when he was two and a bit. Initially, he wasn’t that keen. So we just left it in the house and eventually he began to take an interest and started moving around the house on it. When the summer came around, we went outside for Callum to practise. We popped his helmet on and stuck to the grass so he was safe. Eventually, he began to walk with it, then started running with it to the top of the garden, which has a slight hill. Finally, he lifted his legs up and flew down the hill on the bike! We have all this to come again with our daughter Chloe, she’s only eight months so we’ve got a while yet. So, it’s fair to say Callum’s a keen cyclist already?
Yes, he loves it now. However, he always wants to ride with me and says ‘get your bike daddy’, so we often ride around the garden together. It’s great though, I just think learning to ride a bike gives a sense of freedom which is so important for kids. In your experience, what is the best
In the genes… Callum is already a budding cyclist
way to encourage kids to cycle?
My best advice is to make sure you start with the right bike – and in my opinion the best to start on is a balance bike. They teach children the important aspects of cycling first, such as learning to effectively control the bike before worrying about pedalling. With balance bikes, you don’t have to spend a huge amount of money to get a high-quality one either. I recommend starting slowly. They should learn to walk with the bike, push themselves while they’re riding, and eventually lift their feet off the ground. Where would you recommend taking children to cycle in London?
If you are teaching your child to cycle, then learn away from the traffic in a safe, open space so they are not worrying about other people. If they’re still in the wobbly stages, I’d try practising on grass as it’s soft. You can of course learn in cycling-specific facilities such as Herne Hill Velodrome or the VeloPark at Stratford. But you really don’t have to go to a designated cycling area to practise. 50
Could you tell us about your range with Evans Cycles, and do you have a favourite?
I’ve been working with Evans Cycles for five years now. The whole process has been really enjoyable, and I’ve had a lot of fun doing it. My favourite bike? It’s tough from the kids’ range as they’re all so good. I think from my perspective, even I can hop on the 26 inch HOY Bonaly with disk brakes and ride it because the bikes are so strong – I’m not suggesting that any mums or dads do this of course! You’re also involved with the GoRide scheme, can you explain your involvement in it?
I started working with Go-Ride back in 2015, and it’s a great way to encourage children to learn cycling skills in a fun environment. From a performance point of view, the scheme has been incredibly successful with 85 per cent of the GB team starting out in Go-Ride clubs. It is clear that the scheme has had fantastic success in bringing kids into the sport and developing their techniques and strengths. But for me, more importantly, it’s about inspiring kids so they simply enjoy riding their bikes. LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/CHRISHOY1
Is your eldest child Callum showing an interest in riding a bike?
RUNNING HEAD
Power to the pedal! Sir Chris Hoy believes cycling gives children a sense of freedom
Two years ago you launched your first children’s book. What inspired you to write the Flying Fergus series?
The aim of the books is to try and encourage kids to read, and off the back of that I want them to go out and ride their bikes. But on a deeper level, I wanted to get across the importance of hard work and doing your best – success isn’t always overnight. What you see in the media is instant success and fame and the book is the antithesis of that, I want to instil the importance of hard work, and doing your best with what you have. As a family, what do you like to get up to at the weekends?
Callum is obsessed with trains! He likes to go to the train station and watch the trains, so I’ve definitely got a budding train spotter on my hands. But generally, we love anything that involves getting out in the fresh air. With six gold Olympic medals under your belt, what is your proudest moment as a father?
I was very proud at Callum’s nativity play last year as it was his first ever public performance. He was only three and he’d been practising for ages. Sarra and I were both so nervous on the day, but there was no need – he aced it! L Sir Chris Hoy has a range of kids’ bikes exclusively available from Evans Cycles. evanscycles.com/hoy
GET THE GEAR...
‘FROG 43’ BIKE’ £240 FROGBIKES.COM
Wheel your way with our edit ‘TARGET’ BELL FROM £6.30 KIDDIMOTO.CO.UK
GLOBBER HELMET £20 KIDLY.CO.UK ‘GOGGLE’ HELMET £31.50 KIDDIMOTO.CO.UK/
HOY ‘NAPIER’ BALANCE BIKE £110 EVANSCYCLES.COM
‘PINTO’ BIKE £329 BLACKMOUNTAIN.BIKE
‘MELODY’ BIKE £189.99 RIDGEBACKKIDS.COM
RUNNING HEAD
Despite attending performing arts school in her youth, Wiggy’s true passion has always been design and retail
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INTERVIEW
The wonderful world of
W I G GY
LISA CARTER TALKS TO MUM OF TWO WIGGY HINDMARCH ABOUT JUGGLING FAMILY LIFE WITH THE RUNNING OF HER OWN BEACH LABEL PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG
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meet Wiggy at her home in Chiswick on a glorious May morning – a rare moment to catch her in between summer sales, meetings and time spent promoting her latest capsule collection. Wiggy greets me at the front door in a sparkling white dressing gown, before politely excusing herself to “throw something on”, introducing me to her 10-year-old daughter Scarlet and her tutor on the way. There is an industrious feel to the household – boxes filled with Wiggy Kit line the floors, and prototype bags are piled up on the counter alongside children’s crafts and art work on the walls, all beautifully housed in a modern light-filled kitchen. The house itself is the most beautiful 1720 Grade-II listed home that Wiggy and her husband Will bought last year from Cath Kidston, who has left her mark with an eclectic mix of traditional and new. The kitchen has a modern glass box at the end, which looks out onto a beautiful lawn with a vegetable patch and swimming pool. Beyond that is the River Thames. Wiggy describes the home as their “country house in London”.
Wiggy’s daughters Scarlet and Marina in their Chiswick home
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She reappears in her own-design, freshest blue, linen chambray ‘tie-top bib dress’ looking as though she’s just stepped off a boat in the Caribbean. As it happens, she and her husband Will have a house in Harbour Island, which they adore and have recently returned from, having taken their children out of school in the UK for a term and sending them to the local school out there. Wiggy credits being in Harbour Island as “probably her most inspiring, creative and productive time”. They now spend every vacation there – Christmas, Easter and summer. Will – who set up and runs BOTB (Best of the Best), a spot-the-ball competition where you win luxury cars weekly – clearly shares his wife’s entrepreneurial streak, and it appears to run in his own family, too. While Will’s sister, Anya Hindmarch runs an eponymous handbag label, his other sister, Nicole set up the first Wedding List Shop on Walton Street, which she later sold. Nicole now runs the children’s shoe shop Papouelli, favoured by Prince George and Princess Charlotte (and worn at their aunt Pippa’s recent wedding). The Hindmarch’s father is also credited with inventing an abundantly used plastic plant pot, and has undoubtedly been a driving force for all three of his children’s businesses. Wiggy, too, grew up among entrepreneurs, with her father running their third-generation family business making specialist marine clocks and chronometers used by the intrepid polar explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton. The business was later sold, prompting a move to America when Wiggy was 18. Having spent her youth at a performing arts school, she wanted to follow her true passion – all things related to fashion, design and retail. Even at this early stage she remembers her desire to one day run her own business. It was while living in the southern American town of Charlotte that Wiggy met Laura Vinroot Poole, when she walked into her boutique and asked if she could work for her. Fortuitously, Wiggy was exactly the person Laura needed to
MORE THAN 30 INDEPENDENT CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUES UNDER ONE ROOF F U N F O R T H E W H O L E FA M I LY S A T 9 J U N E 12— 6 P M S U N 10 J U N E 11A M — 5 P M T H E YA R D 8 9 1/ 2 W O R S H I P S T R E E T E AS T LO N D O N, EC2 A 2B F @THESHOPUP #THESHOPUP T H E S H O P U P. C O M
I spend quality time with the children while cycling along the river... putting the world to rights
help run her increasingly successful business, and Wiggy now credits Laura with teaching her everything she knows about the fashion retail world. Five years later with a few more jobs under her belt, Wiggy returned to London, where she went to work for Catherine Prevost, doing everything from “taking out the trash to designing key collection pieces,” she explains. It was around this time she met and married Will, and fairly soon afterwards she fell pregnant, working up until “virtually a week before Scarlet was born”. Two years later, her second daughter, Marina arrived. “It wasn’t until Marina started preprep that I felt ready to start thinking about the business I had always hoped for,” Wiggy says. She dug out a dress she had designed and shelved 10 years earlier, named it the ‘Tux Trapeze’ dress, had a prototype made in an Indian factory and never looked back. As a testament to Wiggy’s timeless designs, the Tux has been her best-selling piece in all three collections to date. Wiggy tells me working life is non-stop; she had no idea when she started how many hours her new venture would demand of her. She now juggles everything with the help of an assistant, a housekeeper and a “very helpful husband”. Recently she bought herself what she calls a “dutch bike”, where she manages to squeeze the two children on the back, with their bags piled up-front for school runs. “These bike trips are when I spend quality time with the children, while cycling along the river chatting with them about their days and putting the world to rights.” With their spacious ‘country in London’ set-up, they have no desire to rush off to the actual countryside for weekends,
choosing instead to stay put. “We love to walk along the river as a family on Sundays to the quaint Dove pub, where we will have a pint before heading home for a roast,” Wiggy says. They also love heading to the cinema for date night, and for her weekly indulgence, Wiggy is an Urban Massage devotee. She tells me Will’s family have been nothing but supportive through this exciting journey. “Family lunches in the Hindmarch house always involve much discussion about their own businesses,” she explains, “so I feel I couldn’t have married into a more suitable environment where I’m understood, and inspired about what one can achieve.”
We love to walk along the river on Sundays before heading home for a roast Will put all his faith into Wiggy and her business from the beginning, and was the sole investor of her first sell-out collection three years ago. Excitingly, luxury retailer Matches started stocking her collection last year, and after selling out they reordered immediately. At the moment Wiggy produces one collection a year, but would like to introduce an extra cruise collection made of silk twill and versatile enough to wear all year round. But for now, she’s managing to juggle it all with family life, and it’s proving a winning combination. L 56
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ADVERTORIAL
And so to bed… Help your little one to establish a good sleep routine with Mummy Love Organics’ magical products
The delicate blend of essential oils promotes a calm and restful night’s sleep
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oining Mummy Love Organics’ award-winning collection of reed diffusers, hand-poured massage candles and pulse-point oils – designed specifically for new mothers and pregnant women – is the brand new baby range. Products include an organic foot oil (£12) and reed diffuser (£35), both crafted to help induce sleep for both babies and children. Blending only the purest essential oils of mandarin, frankincense, English lavender and Roman chamomile, they help little ones to relax and endure less stirring and restlessness. The brand was founded in 2016 by a maternity nurse and baby sleep consultant, who spent six years perfecting the scents for each product to promote good sleeping habits. LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Using only the gentlest ingredients, all of Mummy Loves Organics products are handpoured in its Harrogate studio, and, of course, as the name suggests, are completely organic and free of nasties. Battling to get a child to sleep or selfsettle is a problem that most parents can relate to; whether it’s sleep training a newborn into a routine, or reestablishing bedtime habits following a spell of sleep regression, parents around the world are united in the challenge of inducing sleep. Thankfully, the all-new and natural Sleepy Feet Foot Oil from Mummy Loves Organics is specially designed to help little ones fall into a sweet slumber quicker and stay asleep for longer. It’s also a wonder product 57
at helping ward off bad dreams and night terrors in toddlers and older children. Perfect for calming children, it is a great product to take on flights too! Simply apply to the soles of the feet, temples and behind the ears before bedtime, and allow to dry. Sleepy Feet Foot Oil is not tested on animals, and is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. It’s recommended for use on babies and children over 12 weeks, and the beautiful aroma and gentleness of the oils will mean mum and dad will want to use it, too. L Each 8ml bottle of Sleepy Feet Foot Oil will last approximately two months. £12, visit mummyloversorganics.com
HELEN BARTLETT PHOTOGRAPHY
www.helenbartlett.co.uk | info@helenbartlett.co.uk | 0345 603 1373
Journey to the stars with your family and the London Symphony Orchestra Sunday 8 July 2.30–3.30pm, Barbican for families with 7- to 12-year-olds FAMILY CONCERT lso.co.uk/voyager 020 7638 8891
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WORTH THE WAIT… On the 14th day of each lunar month, Hoi An’s Ancient Town is illuminated by hundreds of candles and lanterns for the annual Lantern Festival. Extend the celebrations with the special family package at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, where you can soak up the culture with daily candle-lighting rituals. Rooms from £555 a night, fourseasons.com
t ravel
NEWS
Keeping big and little globetrotters on the map and in the know SAFARI SUNSETS New on the safari scene this year is a luxury camping experience in the heart of Botswana, at the Lodge at Feline Fields. Families will embrace the wonders of the wild and free, as you sleep under the stars, canoe down the Delta and see wildlife in its most natural habitat. From £4,832 per person for six
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Cornwall is calling this summer as Polurrian Bay Hotel launches four new coastal villas. Available from June, each guest house is full of home comforts while benefitting from the hotel’s facilities and direct access to the beach. Bliss! From £510 for three
nights, felinefields.com
nights, luxuryfamilyhotels.co.uk
TRAVEL BUDDY Say farewell to the dreaded ‘are we there yet?’ as Lonely Planet Kids new collection has landed. Mini travellers can solve puzzles, show off their art skills, and put pen to paper to create a scrapbook. From £7.99, Lonely Planet
Immerse yourself in nature at São Lourenço do Barrocal estate in rural Portugal. The newly launched cultural family programme covers everything from foraging to clay sculpting – but save time to check out the new kids’ pool. From £245 a night for a family of four, Barrocal.pt LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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POS TCAR D from
ITALY LOUISE PYNE and her family headed to Italy for the ultimate holiday experience WHAT’S NOT TO LOVE ABOUT ITALY? Superb cities, sprawling countryside, iconic style... oh, and did I mention some of the best food in the world? With almost guaranteed good weather from April through to October, Italy has always been one of my favourite places to visit. I wanted to share my love for the dolce vita with my partner Ozy and three-year-old son Leo, so off we went on an Italian road trip that took us all the way from picturesque Tuscany in central Italy, to stunning Calabria in the south. Ready some quality family time, our first stop was the Monteverdi resort in Tuscany. Set on a hilltop surrounded by countryside, the idyllic resort forms part of the medieval hamlet of Castiglioncello del Trinoro, and its tranquil vibe was just the break we needed. Leo quickly made friends with other children in the resort, and playing with them kept him busy for hours. But the hotel doesn’t just focus on keeping the kids happy – it also has a spa with an amazing menu of treatments, from signature massages to full-body exfoliations and glow-inducing facials. With ample-sized luxury rooms, villas and suites complete with child-friendly toiletries
and private garden areas, the resort is wellcatered to families. Florence is a drivable hour-and-a-half away, so we jumped in the car to check out the view from the top of the city’s iconic Duomo and strolled through the beautiful Boboli Gardens. As one of the largest parks in Florence, the Boboli Gardens are a showpiece of horticultural artistry, with perfectly manicured hedges and fountains. We took on the four-hour drive to Salerno a few days later, a little seaside hub near Naples with pockets of old-school charm. This delightful town is fringed with pretty medieval churches, amazing pizzerias and tasty ice cream bars. We also travelled to Calabria, which is the southernmost region that stretches all the way to the toe of Italy’s boot. Famous for its turquoise waters and soft sandy beaches, we stayed in Catanzaro Lido, a charming seaside town that faces the Ionian sea. We topped up our tans while helping Leo build sandcastles, then whiled away the evenings nibbling on Calabrese antipasti, which included local cheeses, bruschetta and sun-dried tomatoes. The perfect end to a wonderful holiday! L
Louise’s son Leo loved the trip
The Monteverdi resort sits within the medieval village of Castiglioncello
The Muri Antichi villa features stylish wooden interiors
monteverdituscany.com
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An exhibition organised by Dulwich Picture Gallery and the McMichael Collection of Canadian Art in collaboration with the Vancouver Art Gallery, with the support of the National Gallery of Canada.
! Make reading simple
Six clear stages from first steps to independent reader
Clear navigation of the reading journey—next steps are easily visible
Welcome to Read with Oxford – a brand new series of home reading books to help your child read, with a simple levelling system. S TA G E
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First steps
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Early reader
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Early reader
First steps
I am starting to use letter sounds to read simple words
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Growing reader
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I can use letter sounds to read simple words and short sentences
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Growing reader
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Gaining confidence
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Gaining confidence
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Becoming independent Independent reader
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Gaining confidence
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I am starting to read more words and longer sentences with less help
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Becoming independent
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Independent reader
I can read and understand longer chapter books by myself
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S TA G E
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TITLES
AVAILABLE
Available now in all good bookshops and online. For more information go to www.oxfordowl.co.uk
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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Growing reader
S TA G E
I can read and enjoy a whole story by myself
I sometimes read by myself, and I can read lots of everyday words
AVAILABLE
Early reader
AVAILABLE
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Becoming independent
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TITLES
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TITLES
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Clear descriptions explain each stage
Every stage is matched to book bands
Brilliant books for Little Londoners from Usborne
Find out more at Usborne.com/London For engaging books for creative minds, look for the Usborne balloon
Family Holidays in Cornwall Kids’ Clubs
Spacious family suites
Lots of activities
01637 872864 // www.sandsresort.co.uk // Porth, Cornwall
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TRAVEL
Close to home Staying in the UK this summer? Swap the city for an idyllic rural getaway in the South of England
CORNWALL Five hours from London
Porthminster in St Ives is one of the many Blue Flag beaches in Cornwall
Gyllyngvase beach, Falmouth, Cornwall
If you’re a fan of the seaside, you’ll struggle to find a UK destination as breathtaking as Cornwall. You’re never more than 17 miles from the sea wherever you are in the county, which means there’s plenty of sandy ground to cover. Porthcurno is especially popular with families, thanks to its stream which is perfect for paddling. Or if you fancy having a go at rock pooling, top spots include Port Isaac and Castle Beach in Falmouth. Water sports fanatics can surf and bodyboard at Watergate Bay, where there’s over two miles of beach and the Extreme Academy surf school. Or if you’d rather get out on your bike, pedal down the Camel Trail, an 18-mile track that stretches along the Camel Estuary from Padstow to Bodmin. Burford, The Cotswolds
THE COTSWOLDS Two hours from London
Running across 800 square miles, it’s no surprise that The Cotswolds is best known as the ‘walking and exploring capital’ of the UK. The Cotswolds Wildlife Park & Gardens is particularly great for families, and is home to a wide variety of truly fascinating creatures. For a slice of history, the Roman Baths offer a captivating insight into the life and society of the Romans. The children’s audio guide is worth a listen, too, especially as it’s narrated by the one-and-only Michael Rosen! LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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TRAVEL Saunton Sands, North Devon
The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth The Bluebell Railway runs from East Grinstead to Sheffield Park
WEST SUSSEX Two hours from London
Those looking for a peaceful countryside getaway will love escaping to the wilderness of West Sussex. If the weather’s on your side, treat yourself to a tranquil day out along the coast – both West Wittering and Littlehampton are firm favourites with tourists. Or if turn-of-the-century transport is what captures your child’s interest, take a ride along the Bluebell Railway, where you’ll see one of the UK’s finest collections of vintage steam locomotives and carriages.
DEVON Four hours from London
Charming seaside spots and delicious cream teas are just some of the reasons to visit Devon on your holidays. Croyde Beach in particular is a popular place for watersports, or if you’d rather avoid getting wet, take a cliff-top walk to Baggy Point or down to Saunton Sands, where you’ll see one of the largest sand dune systems in the UK. At Pennywell Farm in Buckfastleigh, kids will love egg collecting, goat milking and meeting all sorts of adorable farm animals. Or, for further tugs on your heartstrings, The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth is where you can learn all about the hundreds of donkeys, mules and hinnies who have been rescued from mistreatment, and are now living happily under the charity’s care.
Step inside the house, explore the library and learn all about the family who lived there
Palace House, Beaulieu
NEW FOREST, HAMPSHIRE Two hours from London
Rain or shine, there’s plenty to keep you busy at the New Forest. Purchase tickets to Beaulieu, an estate at the heart of the forest, and you’ll gain access to all the attractions inside, from Palace House to Beaulieu Abbey. Fans of all things science should check out the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium, too, which is only a 20-minute drive from the New Forest National Park. There’s over 100 interactive exhibits to discover, as well as the UK’s largest standalone digital planeterium.
HOLIDAY HIDEAWAYS
23 SALCOMBE RETREAT
CHURCH COTTAGE
SOUTH DOWNS LODGES
WATERGATE BAY HOTEL
NEW PARK MANOR HOTEL
With views over Soar Mill Cove, this threebedroom lodge is equipped with all the essentials, including a children’s play area.
This five-bedroom Cotswold home has cosy interiors, a heated pool, and a nearby country pub.
Tucked away within the South Downs National Park, choose from five luxury selfcatering lodges.
Retreat to the New Forest and enjoy some family time, with activities for all ages and a spa.
luxurycotswold rentals.co.uk
southdownslodges. co.uk
Set on a two-mile stretch of the North Cornwall coast, there’s so much to enjoy here, from fine dining to water sports.
bluechipholidays.co.uk
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watergatebay.co.uk
newparkmanor hotel.co.uk
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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK; MATT AUSTIN; KIRSTIN PRISK HR
Somewhere to relax at the end of a long day...
Children deserve adventure
They’ll find it on the Isles of Scilly Please quote reference: LL18
01720 423 523
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TRAVEL
Getting all shook up on Nashville’s Broadway
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TRAVEL
THE DELIGHTS
of the
DEEP SOUTH A ROAD TRIP THROUGH SOUTHERN AMERICA WITH A FIVE YEAR OLD, WHILE PREGNANT, MIGHT SOUND LIKE A NIGHTMARE TO SOME. BUT FOR ZOEY GOTO, IT PROVED TO BE THE BEST HOLIDAY YET
There’s entertainment aplenty while you dine at Dolly Parton's Stampede
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ur epic Tennessee adventure started as soon as we touched down in Nashville, following a 14-hour trip. With no direct flights from London and a change of planes at Dallas, it was a long journey, but we hit the road running. In our oversized American hire car we headed just over three hours east to Pigeon Forge, an area in the beautiful Smoky Mountains made famous by Dolly Parton’s theme park, Dollywood. While I wouldn’t class myself as a theme-park fanatic, Dollywood has something to tick most people’s boxes – from daredevil rollercoasters to displays of the local Appalachian crafts. That evening we saddled up and went to Dolly Parton’s Stampede, where dinner is washed down with drinks served in kitsch plastic cowboy boots, enjoyed while you sit back to watch an awe-inspiring horse show. We hit the hay that night at The Inn at Christmas Place, a brilliantly bonkers hotel that celebrates the festive season all year round. Our daughter Summer, 67
unquestioningly accepted that Father Christmas was there to greet her at breakfast, despite the glorious sunshine outside! On the road again, we headed back to Nashville to explore its musical heritage. While Pigeon Forge is tranquil and scenic, Nashville is bursting with energy. Our first stop was the Country Music Hall of Fame, where interactive screens and high-tech displays engage younger visitors. Summer even got to channel her inner Taylor Swift by recording a track on the singer’s tour bus and designing her own album cover. Exhausted from our day of music making, we ambled through the bustling Downtown area. Live music drifted out of the nearby honky-tonk bars, as we found our way to our warehouse apartment at Music City Loft, which was decorated in homage to Elvis Presley. As Nashville is blessed with a warm climate, there are plenty of outdoor activities to explore, from old plantations (Nashville’s most famous is The Hermitage) to the Zoo at Grassmere, which has a great outdoor
TRAVEL
Making music in Elvis’s bedroom
WHERE TO STAY PIGEON FORGE The Inn at Christmas Place: Wish it could be Christmas every day? It is here! innatchristmasplace.com
NASHVILLE Gaylord Opryland Resort: Set in an atrium with its own river that can be explored by boat. marriott.com
The interactive iPad tour around lvis resleyʼs raceland hel s to engage younger visitors
Homewood Suites by Hilton: A budget-friendly condo for families wanting their own kitchen and pool. homewoodsuites3.hilton.com
Nashville’s Hermitage mansion is rich in history
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Loews Vanderbilt Hotel: One of those rare hotels that manages to be both chic and child-friendly in equal measure. loewshotels.com Music City Loft: These New Yorkstyle apartments are decorated in the style of famous musicians, like Johnny Cash. musiccityloft.com
MEMPHIS Uptown Square: Elvis’s two-bed place has been restored to its former 1950s glory. uptownmemphis.org
WHAT TO PACK • Travel light with the help of Baby’s Away (babysaway.com), a rental company that provides everything from car seats and cribs to boxes of toys. It has 70 locations across the US – the Nashville branch delivered the items directly to our hotel. • Insect repellent – Pigeon Forge can be a bit of a mosquito-fest. • Road-trip activities. We stocked up on a batch of never-seenbefore sticker and activity books, which were miraculously produced whenever a backseat meltdown was brewing!
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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
has put country music on the map since 1925. The Opry still attracts a plethora of big-name American musicians and each performer does a song or two – the perfect length to hold children’s interest. We stayed at the Gaylord Opryland Resort next to the theatre, a fantastically tropical hotel set in nine acres of lush indoor gardens. Spurred on by our time in music city, we embarked on our final leg, driving three hours west of Nashville to Memphis to visit Elvis Presley’s former mansion, Graceland. There’s plenty here to keep children occupied, from Elvis’s jungle-themed den to Graceland’s retro diner. Memphis is also home to the best Southern American barbecue food, with slow-cooked pork being its specialty. That evening, we stayed in the Uptown Square apartment where Elvis and his parents Suited and booted: had once lived. As my Summer gets ready for the daughter strummed on a Grand Ole Opry concert guitar, sat in Elvis’s actual bedroom, I realised this holiday had created moments that our family will treasure forever. If your children can endure the long-haul flight, the Deep South repays you in abundance – with a rich musical heritage, great food and activities, and a healthy dose of good old-fashioned Southern hospitality, there’s a lot to love. L
jungle gym. To let off steam on a rainy day, head to the Adventure Science Center, which fuses soft play with educational exhibits. Should you prefer classical music to country, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is a beautiful venue to experience familyfriendly concerts. We were lucky enough to get last-minute tickets for a classical adaptation of Summer’s favourite book, Dr. Seuss’ Green Eggs and Ham. That evening we received a warm welcome at the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, a short drive from the centre of Nashville. Thankfully, the evening knock on the door wasn’t to ask my daughter to keep the noise down, but a friendly face offering cookies, milk and a soft toy for her to play with. No trip to Nashville would be complete without taking in a show at the Grand Ole Opry – the music concert that
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All this partying can build up an appetite. These union jack lemon cupcakes are just the ticket
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Lemon cupcakes Dr. Oetker’s beautifully British cupcakes will give your party the wow factor! YOU WILL NEED: • 12 muffin cases • 240g plain flour • 1 tsp baking powder • ½ tsp salt • 250g unsalted butter, softened • 250g caster sugar • 3 medium eggs • Lemon zest and lemon juice from 1 lemon • 1 tsp lemon extract • 180g quick-cook polenta • 6 tbsp strawberry jam • Ready-to-roll white (200g), blue (100g) and red (100g) icing Pre-heat the oven to 180°C. Cream together the butter and caster sugar, then gradually add the eggs to the mixture. Add the lemon juice, zest and lemon extract. Sieve the flour, baking powder and salt and fold into the mixture. Finally stir in the polenta. Divide the mixture equally among the muffin cases. They should be about 2/3 full and level on top. Bake for 30 minutes, until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean, and they are golden on top. Allow to cool for 5 minutes in their tin, then turn out and cool completely on a wire rack. Warm 6 tbsp of strawberry jam in the microwave until it thins, then brush onto the top of each small cake. Roll out the blue icing and using a round cutter the same size as the top of the cupcakes, stamp out 12 rounds and place one round on each cupcake. Roll out the white icing and cut into even sized strips about 4mm wide, then place on the cake. Roll out the red icing, cut into 2mm wide strips and place on top of the white strips.
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1. DENIM DUNGAREES £110 KINGDOMOFORIGIN.CO.UK 2. T-SHIRT £30 SOMEDAY-SOON.COM 3. COTTON SOCKS £2.99 SOCKSHOP.CO.UK 4. COTTON SHIRT £44 LACOQUETAKIDS.COM 5. HAND SMOCKED SKIRT £78 PEPAANDCOMPANY.COM 6. DESERT BOOTS £32 WILLABEANS.COM 7. NOÉ & ZOË T-SHIRT £32 LIBERTYLONDON.COM 8. ALL STAR CONVERSE £37 SCHUH.CO.UK 9. LINEN SHORTS £115 VILEBREQUIN.COM
For more recipe ideas see oetker.co.uk PICNIC BASKET £15 FLYINGTIGER.COM
PAPER PLATE (PACK OF 100) £6.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK
SMALL FLAG £1.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK
PORTABLE BLUETOOTH SPEAKER £14.99 CURRYS.CO.UK
REUSABLE ICE CUBES £1.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK
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REVERSIBLE THROW £50 NATIONALTRUST.ORG.UK
FLAG BUNTING £2.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK
PARTIES
PA R T Y T I M E W I T H
Carole Middleton
Busy bodies
Before taking on the cake, keep guests – big and small – busy with these much-loved favourites. Players will be sure to build up an appetite! From £13.99 partypieces.co.uk
TAKE A SEAT
STREET PARTY Gather all your family and friends together for a relaxed summer afternoon feast they won’t forget
CHILDREN’S CHAIRS & TABLE This lightweight camping set is the perfect companion for when little legs need a rest! £22.95, homebase.co.uk
BEACH DECKCHAIR Keep it classic with a foldable deckchair. Put your feet up, stretch out and soak up the atmosphere. £29, johnlewis.com
A SUMMER STREET PARTY DECKED OUT WITH FOOD, DRINK AND brightly coloured décor is the perfect excuse to get to know your neighbours and spend time with close family and friends in this warm weather. Long tressle tables adorned with flowers, bunting and colourful crockery will set the scene – and don’t be afraid to mixand-match your chairs, crockery, napkins and glasses for a real homespun, vintage feel. Red, white and blue is a fun and vibrant colour scheme – and union jack prints add that retro vibe to the day. When it comes to serving your food, choose large platters, casserole dishes and oversized wooden serving spoons so everyone can dig in, and let the little ones help themselves to drinks with your very own Kilner dispenser filled with homemade lemonade or punch. Fun is the order of the
day for a street party, so you could even have your own drinks station filled with jars of chopped up fruit, mint and paper straws so kids (and adults!) can jazz up their punch. And don’t forget the sweet treats either – a showstopping Victoria sponge topped with strawberries and cool cake pops work well, or beat the heat with homemade ice lollies, or hire an ice cream van. Finally, eating and drinking is all part of the action, but don’t forget to include a few games and activities to keep the kids busy, too. Tug-of-war, hopscotch, water fights, bicycle races and fancy dress competitions are all classic choices. You may want to steer clear of ball games unless you have sufficient space! You could organise special party bags filled with activities like colouring books and pens, and paper flags, to keep them entertained, too. L DRAWSTRING BACKPACK
£18 CATHKIDSTON.CO.UK
UNION JACK BUNTING £11 NOTHS.COM
‘ALL WEATHER’ CUSHION £7 WILKO.COM
‘GUZZLER’ WATER BOTTLE £14.99 HYDRATEM8.CO.UK
RED VELVET CAKE £29.85 HUMMINGBIRDBAKERY.COM
LED LIGHTING CHAIN £29 IKEA.CO.UK
FLAG CUSHION £25 CATHKIDSTON.CO.UK
TO THE BEACH French interiors brand Gautier began transforming bedrooms in 1960 with its nautical-themed kids’ furniture. Now in its tenth iteration, the Mistral collection is the latest bid. Drift away with floating fin shelves, ship-inspired bookcases and boat decking headboards. See for yourself at the Chiswick or Chelsea showroom. From £132, gautier.co.uk
interior
NEWS
Stylish updates and inspiring finds to make your house a home
how o all o your avourite things with this rinted eg oard
WONDER WALL Bring walls to life with whimsical prints from Abigail Edwards. Embracing the beauty of nature and fairy tales – in a choice of wallpaper, fabric and accessories – expect hand-drawn details, from winding oak trees to Rapunzel’s plaits. Wallpaper from £60 a roll, abigailedwards.com
SEASIDE CHIC
PRIDE OF PLACE
Known for its bold prints, lifestyle brand Anorak’s four new designs are making a real splash. The fish, orca, wave and coral patterns feature on a whole range of items, from picnic blankets and roll-top cool bags to towels, bedding and kitchen accessories. From £5, anorakonline.co.uk
Put prized possessions on display – whether that’s books, toys or pics – with this patterned pegboard from London-based Kreis Design. Crafted from sustainable birch plywood, the boards come in two sizes, with a selection of pegs and shelves to arrange as you wish. From £125, kreisdesign.com
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CREATIVITY
get CRAFTY
LEONORA BAMFORD AND NANNY ANITA HAVE GONE CAPITAL CRAZY AS THEY SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE LONDON-INSPIRED ACTIVITIES
T
he flowers are blooming and school’s almost out for the holidays – hooray for summer! Anita and I have been having fun with oodles of crafts, so thought we would adapt some old favourites with a London-themed twist. Our greenhouse is looking rather lush at the moment, and we’ve also been growing broad beans, which are great fun for the kids to help pod. I found a delicious recipe at Daylesford, which is easy to make and should even encourage your little ones to eat their greens. In keeping with the theme of London, I’m taking inspiration from Notorious Kids’ Instagram (@notorious_kids), which is all about the capital this summer. Whether it’s a trip to the lido, the zoo or crazy golf, we can’t wait to get out and explore! L
LONDON PRINT PYJAMAS £22 THEWHITECOMPANY.COM
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PAPER PLATE CRAFT You will need: • paper plate • scissors • pencil • glue • gems • paint • paintbrush • cotton wool • black pen Method • On the back of the paper plate, draw 4 lines across the flat part, then cut the lines up to where the plate starts to curve. • You should now have 8 triangles. Paint these gold, and the rim of the plate red. • Once it’s dried, glue cotton wool to the rim of the paper plate. • Add the finishing touches by gluing gems on and drawing some black spots onto the cotton wool.
Notorious Kids produced these fabulous London-themed party bags for a recent royal-themed do NOTORIOUSKIDS.COM
BUILD YOUR OWN LONDON BRIDGE
Method • Arrange 4 straws in a horizontal line and stick together using celotape, at both ends. • Evenly space out the 3 loo rolls, and then place the row of straws on the top. • Feed the straws through the row on either side of all 3 tubes, to give you your 3 uprights. Tape these into position. • Use different coloured straws to make your ‘V’ shape and celotape where necessary.
You will need: • 250g peas • 250g podded broad beans • 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped • 3 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped • 2 handfuls peashoots • 50g butter • sea salt and black pepper
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG; ISTOCK
I’ve been desperate to visit Kew Gardens for over a year now, and I can’t believe I missed the Peter Rabbit trail. However, they have a really cool-looking dragon hunt at the moment – Here Be Dragons – which is running until September. I’m going to take the kids soon, and we’ll make a day of it with a picnic on the lawns, too. There’s always so much to see at Kew, so it’s a good idea to set off early for opening and stay for the whole day. kew.org
You will need: • long paper craft straws • tape • 3 loo rolls • scissors • celotape
DAYLESFORD BROADBEAN DIP
Method • Have a bowl of iced water ready. • Half-fill a large saucepan with water and bring to the boil. Add the peas first if fresh, and cook for about 5 minutes, adding the beans for the last 30 seconds. If the peas are frozen, you can put both these and the beans in together and bring back to the boil, then take off the heat after 30 seconds. Drain in a colander, then transfer to the bowl of iced water and leave for 5 minutes. Drain well again and slip off the skins from the broad beans.
HERE BE DRAGONS
• Transfer the peas and beans to a bowl and crush with the back of a fork. Add the herbs and pea shoots and stir well. • Melt the butter in a large non-stick pan. Add the crushed bean and pea mixture and heat gently, stirring regularly, until warmed through. • Season and serve.
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TV DINNER New TV show Shane The Chef is the first animated series for kids that focuses around healthy eating. Follow Shane and his daughter Izzy on a culinary journey, in the seaside town of Munchington. Each episode revolves around a new dish, allowing viewers to learn the benefits of a healthy and balanced diet. milkshake.tv/shane-chef
food
NEWS
BODY BOOST
The latest and greatest foodie finds for your mini diners
Despite recommendations from the Department of Health, nearly two thirds of parents have never given their children vitamin supplements. Mother to a fussy eater herself, Rochelle Humes has teamed up with vitamin brand Haliborange to support its Fusstrations campaign, teaching mums and dads about the importance of daily supplements. haliborange.com
WASTE NOT, WANT NOT
DINNER IS SERVED Looking for some inspiration in the kitchen? Little Cook Box’s aim is to make meals easier for time-short parents and more fun for mini chefs. The delivered meal kits contain pre-prepared fresh ingredients, and easy-to-follow recipes for children. Each dish takes no longer than 20-30 minutes, ranging from posh sausage and mash to the more exotic empanadas. From £19.80 for four meals, littlecookbox.com
In a mission to tackle the nation’s food waste, Ocado and Little Inventors have called on kids across the country to create an invention that combats the problem. The winning design will be turned into a real-life product! ocado.littleinventors.org
A survey conducted by Dr. Oetker has found that baking can significantly improve mood, with 67 per cent saying it lifts their spirits, and almost half saying it makes them feel happy. What better reason to dig out the apron and get baking with the brood? webake.co.uk LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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FOOD
NACH O BOWL S
Australian food guru and mum of two, DONNA HAY, shares her mouth-watering Mexican-inspired dish – a feast for the whole family INGREDIENTS (SERVES 4) • 6 x 20cm wholemeal flour tortillas • extra virgin olive oil, for brushing • 90g grated cheddar • avocado, peeled and chopped or 1 x pot of guacamole
These cris y dee lled nacho owls are sure to e a new a ily avourite
FOR THE NACHO FILLING • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped • 80g finely grated courgette (roughly one) • 140g grated pumpkin or carrot • 1 tsp ground cumin • 1 tsp ground coriander • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika • 1 x 400g can chopped tomatoes • 180ml passata • 1 x 400g can black beans or red kidney beans, rinsed and drained • 1-2 tsp maple syrup • sea salt and cracked black pepper • 1 lime (optional) Method 1 Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). 2 Arrange 4 tall ramekins or ovenproof mugs upside-down on a baking tray. Using a pastry brush, brush 4 of the tortillas with oil and place them, oil-side down, over the ramekins. Set aside. 3 Line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper. Brush the remaining 2 tortillas with oil and place them flat, with the oil-side up, on the prepared tray. 4 Bake all of the tortillas for 8 minutes or until they’re nice and brown. Wearing oven gloves, carefully remove the trays from the oven and allow to cool (the tortillas will turn crispy as they cool). 5 To make the nacho filling, place the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion, courgette and pumpkin and cook, stirring with a wooden spoon, for 8 minutes or until the onion is brown and soft. 6 Add the cumin, coriander and paprika and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. 7 Add the tomatoes, passata and beans and cook, stirring, for another 5-6 minutes or until thick. Add the maple
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syrup, salt and pepper and stir. 8 Take the tortillas from the ramekins and flip them over to make nacho bowls. Spoon the nacho filling into the bowls and top with the cheese and avocado (plus a squeeze of lime, if you like). Break pieces of your bowl and
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scoop up the filling. Slice or break the flat tortillas into extra crispy dipping chips. Basics to Brilliance Kids by Donna Hay, is available now. RRP: £20, HarperCollins
FOOD
Top spots for little tums We round up the best family-friendly restaurants the capital has to offer R.S. Hispaniola
CAU
The Real Greek
Galvin at Windows
Galvin at Windows Not only will little ones love whizzing up in a lift to the 28th floor of the London Hilton on Park Lane, their taste buds will be taken to new heights, too. Galvin at Windows might not be the obvious choice for dining en famille, but prepare to be impressed at just how familyfriendly this Michelin-starred restaurant is. The kids’ menu has been lovingly created by a group of children with the help of head chef, Joo Won, and kids eat free during the holidays, too. Bon appetit! galvinatwindows.com
The Real Greek You’ll find The Real Greek in almost every corner of London, with eight different restaurants spread across the capital. Diners of all ages can expect a Mediterranean
Inamo
medley, and for just £6.75 younger guests can enjoy a souvlaki wrap or mix and match with the kids’ meze selection, which also comes with a choice of soft drink and dessert. therealgreek.com
Dipping Dessert a try – kids will love the popping candy sprinkled on the top! inamo-restaurant.com
R.S. Hispaniola Hop on board City Cruises’ R.S. Hispaniola, the warm and welcoming floating restaurant ship permanently moored on the Victoria Embankment. Kids can spot London’s famous landmarks as you dine in the Upper Deck restaurant or on the outdoor deck. From £10 each, little ones can enjoy a choice of family favourites, including haddock, grilled chicken or homemade beef burgers. Crayons are dished out too, to colour-in their own nautical-designed menu. hispaniola.co.uk
Inamo If you’re keen to introduce your children to the wonders of pan-Asian cuisine, Inamo is a great starting point. This small chain is best known for its interactive tables, which encourage diners to play games, draw and even watch the chefs prepare food via the ‘Chef Cam’. Most of the dishes are childfriendly in terms of heat and flavour, and for pudding, be sure to give the Chocolate
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Don’t try this at home! Draw doodles on Inamo’s interactive tables while you wait for your food
CAU Buenos Aires comes to London with contemporarystyled steak chain CAU. Big eyes and little tummies can prepare for a feast with the Mini Eats menu, available at all three of the capital’s restaurants. Kids can choose from five main courses each priced at £6.50, including rainbow tacos and 100% grass-fed beef burgers. To kick things off, little diners are spoilt with complimentary cherry tomatoes, cucumber, hummus and a soft drink – plus wordsearches to keep them busy. Don’t forget to save some room for the Cornflake Sundae! caurestaurants.com L
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Battersea Park Children’s Zoo... who will you see?
From cheeky monkeys to leaping lemurs, noisy otters to snuffling coatis, who will you come face to face with?
PLUS our fun play area for kids of all ages!
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Battersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate Battersea London SW11 4NJ
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RRP £22.99 Available in 8 colours
ENJOY FREE RANGE FAMILY FUN ON THE FARM
THIS SUMMER! Giant indoor play barn
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PLUS A full programme of fun farm activities including pony rides, goat milking, pig racing and much more!
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Ditch or switch NUTRITIONIST LOUISE PYNE REVEALS THE SO-CALLED ‘HEALTH FOODS’ THAT AREN’T AS VIRTUOUS AS YOU MIGHT THINK
W
e all want our children to eat healthily, but even with the best intentions it can be difficult to make the right choices. Your little one’s development and growth relies on them getting the right mix of nutrients to help them develop properly, and good eating habits begin in childhood. This means there’s no better time to start paying extra attention to what’s on her plate than from the time you begin weaning, through to toddlerhood and beyond. The problem is that many seemingly healthy foods actually fall short in the nutrient stakes, which means you could be fuelling your child’s consumption of sugar and fat without realising. So, to help you make smarter choices, here are some of the key foods to avoid, plus some simple ways to fast-track healthy eating.
FLAVOURED YOGHURT Yoghurt typically seems like a healthy option for snack time or dessert. After all, it’s a source of calcium to feed your child’s growing bones, and is packed with probiotics to nourish the friendly bacteria in her digestive tract. However, flavoured yoghurts are also filled with a surprising amount of sugar – in fact, research shows that a single yoghurt pot can contain over 22g of the sweet stuff. This can lead to dental problems such as tooth decay, as well as obesity – a worrying epidemic that’s currently affecting almost a third of two year olds.
Swap for: Natural Greek yoghurt
There really is so much to love about Greek yoghurt. It is a concentrated source of protein, which is good for a growing body, and includes digestion-boosting probiotics and bone-building calcium. The thick consistency will satisfy their taste buds, too. Add chopped strawberries or puréed fruit for a sweeter flavour that packs in healthy antioxidants.
ORANGE JUICE Your little one might fall for the colourful packaging, but a glass of OJ contains more added sugar than you might realise. Whereas eating a whole orange offers a big hit of fibre, which keeps your child’s digestive system running smoothly, in juice form the fibre is removed, overriding any of the major health benefits like vitamin C. Swap for: Green smoothies
WHITE BREAD
Smoothies are a healthier option than their fruit-based counterparts, as blending rather than juicing retains the skin, pulp and fibre. Sneaking in vegetables with low-sugar fruits will also help to lower the natural sugar content, but start by adding more fruit than greens to get her taste buds used to the flavour. Pop half a frozen banana and a quarter of an avocado with a few spinach leaves and two tablespoons of frozen berries into the blender. Pour in 150ml whole milk and blend until smooth. To get your child used to the new colour, serve it in a brightly coloured cup with a paper straw, and over time throw in more spinach leaves.
Carbohydrate is an important macronutrient that fuels children’s energy levels, so bread seems like a safe option. But this flour-based food is actually low in nutrients, because the goodness of the wholegrain is removed in the milling process. This means that it’s broken down quickly as a ‘sugar’, resulting in a rush of energy followed by a dip, which could lead to mood swings or energy lulls.
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Swap for: Wholegrain bread
Wholegrains are a complex carbohydrate, so they take longer to digest, keeping your little one fuller for longer. Therefore, you should always try to choose wholegrain slices, rolls and wraps over white varieties. LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
THREE INSTANT HEALTH-BOOSTERS Simple tips to bring more nutrition to meals.
1 PLAN IN ADVANCE Making healthy meals is all down to organisation, so plan a few days’ worth in advance. This will allow you the time to think up dishes that are balanced in all three macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, fats), along with lots of fresh vegetables. Cook in batches and freeze, so you always have something healthy to hand.
2 START SLOWLY
CEREAL Everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and eating a healthy, nutrient-rich morning meal will set your child up with sustained energy levels. However, most children’s breakfast cereals are packed with sugar, with some brands adding much as three teaspoons of the sweet stuff, which is practically equal to the amount found inside two chocolate biscuits. PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
Swap for: Porridge
Substituting sugar-laden cereals for a bowl of oats, with two tablespoons of mixed berries, will provide her with the right amount of healthy nutrients. Oats are rich in energising B vitamins and fibre to keep her full, while LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
berries are low in sugar and high in healthgiving antioxidants, making this a perfect breakfast combo.
COLD CUTS Sandwich fillers like ham, chicken or turkey slices might seem like a convenient option, especially when you’re in a hurry, but these processed meats usually have a lot of preservatives added to them. Swap for: Roast chicken
Ditch deli slices for a whole roast chicken, which will provide multiple meals and save you time in the kitchen. Simply slice into small pieces for sandwiches, or make into a smooth chicken soup or wholesome stew. L 83
If your child is fussy when it comes to food, try introducing new flavours slowly while enforcing the positives. It’s incredible how little anecdotes, like spinach will make her strong or carrots will give her super eyesight, will encourage kids to be more adventurous at mealtimes.
3 COOK TOGETHER By involving your child in the cooking process, she’ll be more interested in tasting what she’s made. Whether it’s stirring ingredients together or choosing produce in the supermarkets, she’ll be far more tempted to tuck into meals she’s helped to create.
Hawkesdown House School
For Boys & Girls aged 3 to 11 years
Open Morning dates: Wednesday 8th February Wednesday 24th May
OPEN MORNING DATES 2018: (Doors 9.30) • Tue 30th October Wed 23rd May • Wed 17thopen October (9:30am – 11:00 am Doors Open at 9:20am)
LYNDHURST HOUSE
Preparatory and Pre-Preparatory School 27 Edge Street, Kensington, London W8 7PN Telephone: 0207 727 9090 Email: admin@hawkesdown.co.uk www.hawkesdown.co.uk
24 Lyndhurst Gardens, Hampstead, London NW3 5NW Telephone: 0207 435 4936 Email: office@lyndhursthouse.co.uk www.lyndhursthouse.co.uk
Olé Kids
Naomi Martin
Spanish classes for children and parents
Bilingual and beginners. Children learn languages through immersion and play.
Weekly Touch Typing Courses for Children in Holidays and Half Terms
★Group classes across London ★Spanish in Nurseries ★After School Clubs ★Private classes at home ★Birthday parties Free weekend workshops at Iberica Canary Wharf while you eat www.ibericalondon.co.uk
• Beginner and Intermediate skill levels • Morning and afternoon classes • Based in Fulham
★Adult Spanish Classes ★GSCEs’ and A’levels
• 90 Minute Classes • Small Groups
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• Ages 7+
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Contact Naomi: naomi@nmtouchtyping.co.uk www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk
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EDUCATION Did you know? Little Forest Folk, London’s first full-time outdoor nursery, has received a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category, recognising its unique education model and commercial success. Congratulations!
T H G I R B YO U N G T HIN GS An essential guide to your child’s education
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CARAMEL COTTON BLOUSE NOW MAKE THIS £65 FARFETCH.COM £16.95 UK.PHAIDON.COM
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EDUCATION IT’S A NUMBERS GAME
PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP Researching schools
If you want to know more about schooling and want to plan for the future, check out our sister title, The Guide to Independent Schools. Published twice a year, this 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! Visit chelseamagazines. com/independentschool-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.
With the summer holidays nearing help keep brains active with tilebased game Numbalee. One set provides more than 12 games of playled learning, each complementing Key Stage One and Two curriculums. Suitable for ages six plus, players are encouraged to verbalise their sums to improve confidence. Packed in a handy zipped bag, it can travel with you, too! £19.99, numbalee.com
education
NEWS
Everything you need to know about what’s going on in and out of the classroom
EXAM SUCCESS
NATURE'S TEACHINGS
The advantages of outdoor learning are numerous – from increased self-esteem to improved confidence and resilience. A Year of Forest School, the second book from Jane Worroll and Peter Houghton, shows families how to make the most of their local environment, with games, crafts and activities whatever the weather’s up to. £12.99, Watkins
Inspired by her children’s experience of the 11+, Katie Knapman’s Revision Fun for Clever Kids combines puzzles and problem solving with the challenges of studying for an exam. Full of tips and tricks with extra activities disguised as a fun ‘break’ from revision! £8.99, Jumping Yak
Got a James Bond super-fan on your hands? Join the Infinity Spy Academy at The Corner House in West London to learn the tricks of the trade over a 10 week course. £150, thrilleducation.com
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Summer Open Evening Monday, 25 June 2018 4.30pm - 7.00pm
London’s only diamond structure school with single-sex teaching in a co-educational environment for girls and boys aged 4-18.
Next Open Morning: Saturday, 23 June 2018
We are a city school with 30 acres of grounds where north east London meets Epping Forest.
Built on Tradition – Embracing the Future
www.forest.org.uk | admissions@forest.org.uk 020 8520 1744 | E17 3PY
Headmaster’s Welcome at 9.30am o register please email o ce parkside school.co.uk
Co-educational boarding and day 3–13 Years
Cheam School, Headley, Newbury, Berkshire, RG19 8LD registrar@cheamschool.co.uk +44 (0)1635 268242 www.cheamschool.com @cheamschool
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EDUCATION
DAD’ S TH E WOR D
B
y 9:15am on a bright and breezy Saturday in April, there’s already a queue of dads with toddlers in tow, signing in at the desk of a West London branch of ‘WhoLetTheDadsOut?’. The aroma of fresh coffee and bacon fills the canteen area of the refurbished former community centre, as volunteers lay out various pieces of play equipment, from soft toys to wooden trains and a railway track. Once they’ve signed in, some dads remain in the canteen greeting friends or ordering breakfast, while almost all the children immediately head off through the double doors into the main hall, with its huge, blue and green inflatable slide and bouncy ball-pit. The average attendance for this group – held on the third Saturday of every month – is around 50, but the whole building “can comfortably hold about 70 dads and their kids,” explains Andy Bacon, group organiser and father of two (with another on the way). Originally set up with just 20 dads at Hoole Baptist Church in Chester in March 2003, ‘WhoLetTheDadsOut?’ now offers over 200 groups nationwide. It’s inspired a number of similar regular gatherings across London, too. There are ‘dads out’ groups in Barking, Orpington, Woodford Wells, Enfield, Hackney, Peckham, Pinner, Richmond and Surbiton, with plans for more. Many local authorities also run groups for dads and male carers – such as ‘Saturday Tiny Sports Stars’ in Hounslow – through stay-and-play facilities. In Wimbledon, Brockwell Park and Tulse Hill, the ‘Dads And Little ’uns’ playgroups
take place during the week. These also offer an opportunity for local stay-at-home or flexible working dads to bring their children. “We’ve been running ‘Dads And Little ’uns’ for 13 years,” explains Grant Simpson, who coordinates events on Monday and Friday mornings in Wimbledon, and Fridays from 10am to 12pm at the Trinity Church in Tulse Hill. There’s a charge of £2 per dad per session, and the group also runs trips to the Horniman Museum and Tooting Bec Lido, as well as a Christmas party and summer picnic. While the ‘WhoLetTheDadsOut?’ scheme is run by the Bible Reading Fellowship, church membership isn’t a requirement for those dads who pay £4.50 to attend the session. “For that, dads get unlimited tea and coffee, a bacon roll and use (for the kids) of all the facilities,” says Andy Bacon. “We knew if we’d mentioned our church in the name, we might put some people off, so that element is pretty low key.” I get chatting with father of three and commercial airline pilot Paul Stevenson. “The group is a great idea and a really supportive place to be,” he explains. “I’ve been coming here about five years. I’ve got three boys, who are two, four and six, and they’re always excited about coming here. My wife gets to take a break for a few hours, too.” Craig Skelton, meanwhile, is here with his five-year-old daughter Nancy. “I’ve been coming here since she was a baby,” says Craig. “There’s five of us dads with kids all around the same age. It’s a great idea because it has all the toys I wish Nancy could have, but I don’t have room for in our house!” L
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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK
Dad-and-toddler-only playgroups are on the rise, allowing like-minded Londoners to meet other fathers. ROB KEMP finds out more
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
EDUCATION BONDING TIPS FOR DADS New to the world of father and toddler groups? Here are a few moves that’ll help you find new friends…
PHONE AHEAD If it’s your first time, call the group organisers and get the name of someone who’ll be there on the day. They can introduce you to other dads and volunteers.
GET IN THE ZONE Some venues have different areas and activities according to the ages of the children attending. Striking up conversations with dads of kids the same age as yours will help you form a common bond.
MEET THE TEAM “Most of the volunteers here are fathers who’ve been through that first-time anxiety,” says Bacon.
GO FOR A CUPPA Hanging out in the canteen area or just joining the queue is usually enough for the newcomers to get chatting.
DON’T GO IT ALONE If you or your partner made friends at your antenatal group, this could be a perfect place to meet up again. With a ‘wingman’ alongside you, you’ll find comfort in having a familiar face to speak to.
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WHAT’S ON
AG E N DA
MARTHA ALEX ANDER reveals what’s going on in the capital
PHOTOGRAPHY: CITADEL FESTIVAL
CITADEL FESTIVAL Sunday 15 July, 12pm to 10.30pm. This festival is all about celebrating Sundays as a day of happiness and pleasure. As well as music and and array of delicious food for adults, there’s plenty to keep children busy thanks to a dedicated Kids’ Camp. Little ones can learn to make puppets with help from Little Angel Theatre, and there’s also lots of opportunities for singing, percussion and painting.
FAMILY CRAFT AT KENWOOD
MR STINK
CHILDREN’S ART WEEK
Sunday 3 June, 12pm to 4pm. The creative workshops at Kenwood House in Hampstead give children the chance to see the paintings in this famous stately home brought to life. Families can also explore the house and work together on a variety of arts and crafts projects.
Wednesday 18 July to Sunday 5 August, performance times vary. This charming, witty adaptation of David Walliams’ highlyacclaimed book Mr Stink follows the story of Chloe, a lonely 12-year-old who invites a homeless man with questionable hygiene and his dog to live in her family’s shed.
Gunnersbury Park, London W3 8LQ
Kenwood House, London NW3 7JR
Rayne Theatre, London N14 4PE
Various locations across London.
citadelfestival.com
english-heritage.org
chickenshed.org.uk
childrensartweek.org.uk
Admission: Adults, £49.50; children, £10.
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Admission: From £2 each.
Admission: From £10 each.
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Saturday 9 to Sunday 17 June. Galleries across the capital will be hosting a variety of workshops for this year’s Children’s Art Week. The annual festival invites budding artists take part in a wide range of arts and crafts, from drawing and animation, to costume design. Admission: Free.
WHAT’S ON
MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD SUMMER FESTIVAL Sunday 22 July, 11.30am to 4:30pm. The V&A Museum of Childhood’s annual summer festival boasts a whole host of live entertainment to please all ages. Children will love having their faces painted, riding in rickshaws, and tasting a range of different foods.
Lego Reef at Legoland Windsor
LEGO REEF
SMALL WONDERS
Daily, from 10am. New to Legoland Windsor for 2018, Lego Reef invites visitors to dive deep and build sea creatures out of virtual bricks using touchscreen technology. Kids can create their own digital fish, before watching them swim through the interactive floor-toceiling coral reef. Feed your fish using the interactive fish-feeding buttons – simply touch the button closest to your fish to release food and make them swim faster.
Saturday 2 June to Friday 13 July, performance times vary. This beautiful production by pioneering theatre company Punchdrunk has been created especially for families with children age five to 11. Audiences venture inside Nanny Lacey’s flat, where tiny scenes detail the memories she shares with her daughter Bella. Each memory is a story, and the performance revolves around bringing these past moments to life.
threes go free.
Bernie Grant Arts Centre, Tottenham
Winkfield Road, Windsor SL4 4AY
Green, London N15 4RX
legoland.co.uk
punchdrunk.org.uk
NOT NOW, BERNARD
COME PL AY MONTES SORI
Admission: From £32 each; under-
Sunday 27 May to Sunday 1 July. For over 30 years, David McKee’s iconic picture book – which follows Bernard, a boy whose parents don’t listen to him when he says there’s a monster in the garden – has enchanted adults and children alike. Now, families can see Bernard’s story brought to life in an adaptation created for children aged three and over.
EAST LONDON BUBBLE RUSH Sunday 10 June, 11am to 4pm. This five-kilometre route passes through Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and four ‘stations’, which will pump out masses of different coloured bubbles. Move around the course however you like, from a toddle to a sprint! All proceeds will go to four hospices within London and Essex. Admission: Adults, from £20;
Admission: Free.
children, £17; under-threes go free.
V&A Museum of Childhood,
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park,
Bethnal Green, London E2 9PA
London E20 2ST
vam.ac.uk/moc
bubblerush.co.uk
LIFE IN THE DARK
SUMMER EXHIBITION
13 July to 6 January 2019, 10am to 5.50pm. This stunning new show invites visitors to experience what life is like for creatures of the night. Learn what some of the world’s most extraordinary nocturnal creatures get up to in the shadows, including snakes, fish, foxes and bats, who all thrive in the pitch-black thanks to their super-senses.
Tuesday 12 June to Sunday 19 August. Brilliant for older children, the Royal Academy’s annual exhibition is a great place to discover abstract paintings and skilful sculptures. With Grayson Perry as the head curator, this year boasts a witty and thoughtprovoking show.
Admission: Adults, from £11.50;
Burlington House, Piccadilly,
under-16s go free.
London W1J 0BD
The Natural History Museum,
royalacademy.org.uk
Admission: Adults, £16; under-16s go free.
Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD nhm.ac.uk
CHESTERTONS POLO IN THE PARK Friday 8 to Sunday 10 June, times vary. This spectacular social event enjoys its ninth year at London’s Hurlingham Park this summer. With up to three matches of polo each day, visitors have access to restaurants and street food, the Lanson champagne garden and the Little Hooves Kids’ Club. Sunday is typically the best day for families, with plenty of free entertainment for children. Kids can also take part in a pitch invasion on Sunday morning!
Admission: From £8 each.
Sunday 3 June, 11am until 4pm. These delightful drop-in sessions are the perfect opportunity for under-fours to spend time exploring Montessori activities and creative ideas. Activities include making shapes on the floor, completing puzzles and writing poems.
ARCHITECTURE EXPLORERS Saturday 9 June, 10.30am and 1.30pm. Children aged five to 11 will have the chance to design their own building in this workshop at the British Library, which will enable them to experiment with a variety of exciting materials. Admission: Free.
The British Library, London NW1 2DB bl.uk/events
Admission: Adults, from £30;
Admission: Free.
children, £10; under-fives go free.
Admission: Adults, £16; children, £10.
V&A Museum of Childhood,
Hurlingham Park, Fulham,
147 Tooley Street, London SE1 2HZ
Bethnal Green, London E2 9PA
London SW6 3RH
unicorntheatre.com
vam.ac.uk/moc
polointheparklondon.com
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Chestertons Polo in the Park
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
WHAT’S ON
JACK AT THE BEANSTALK CAFÉ Wednesday 13 to Sunday 17 June, performance times vary. Ideal for children aged four to eight, Hand to Mouth Theatre presents a visual feast for families in this delightful performance at the Beanstalk Café. Watch and giggle as two grown-ups play with their food as they search for the recipe for the perfect story. Mixing puppetry, live music and hearty songs, this show is a mischievous magical banquet.
PETER PAN
LIT TLE FEET
Until Thursday 14 June. This beautiful puppetry production of Peter Pan is staged in the magical outdoor surroundings of Regents Park’s open-air theatre. Created to appeal to all ages, this retelling of a classic story is told via a group of wounded soldiers, for whom imagination is the only escape from the horrors of the First World War.
Monday 16 July, 10.30am and 12pm. This class encourages underfives to explore the work of the artist Rodin, while trying out different creative techniques. Booking is essential to avoid disappointment.
from £12.50.
THE ENORMOUS ELEPHANT RUN
The Lyric Centre, King Street,
Saturday 16 June, 10.45am. Have you herd? The Enormous Elephant Run is coming to Clapham Common! This familyfriendly five-kilometre fun run is organised by The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and all funds raised will benefit the charity’s conservation projects in Africa. The route is suitable for off-road buggies, and under-10s can have a go at an elephantthemed quiz walk, too. Once the run is over, enjoy refreshments, a children’s activity tent and various stalls.
lyric.co.uk
Admission: Adults, £25; children, £10;
go free.
under-threes go free.
Burgh House, New End Square,
Clapham Common SW4 9DE
Hampstead, London NW3 1LT
runforelephants.com/london
bachtobaby.com
Admission: Free.
Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG britishmuseum.org
Admission: Adults, from £25; children
Admission: Adults, £13; children, £11.
Regents Park, London NW1 4NU
Little Angels Studios, Sebbon Street
openairtheatre.com
THE 3FOOT PEOPLE FESTIVAL Tuesday 26 to Thursday 28 June, from 9.30am. Billed as the largest outdoor festival exclusively for preschoolers, The 3foot People Festival aims to inspire and delight up to 14,000 young children. Little ones will be thrilled at the variety of activities on offer within the ‘village’ of tents at the festival, comprising theatre shows, crafts and storytelling, as well as a giant sandpit and a petting zoo. Admission: Adults, £12; children, from £2. Hylands Park, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 8WQ chelmsford.gov.uk
BICYCLE BOY Saturday 23 to Sunday 24 June. As part of Greenwich and Docklands International Festival, this delightful musical tells the story of Sam and Mike, whose love for their bicycles is recalled in adulthood as they clear out their grandfather’s workshop. The show, which is ideal for children aged between six and 10, includes songs, laughs and plenty of audience interaction.
LIT TLE RED RIDING HOOD Saturday 28 July, 2pm. Laughter and singing is par for the course during this production of a children’s classic. Audiences will be treated to puppetry, songs and audience interaction as our heroine is helped on her journey. Admission: From £7 each.
The Cockpit, Gateforth Street, London NW8 8EH thecockpit.org.uk
L AMBETH COUNTRY SHOW Saturday 21 to Sunday 22 July, 12pm to 8pm. Vegetable competitions and sheepdog and owl displays, set to a backdrop of reggae, folk and soul music, mean the atmosphere at Lambeth Country Show is always a hit with families. You’ll also find a fun fair and tonnes of tasty food stands.
Hammersmith, London W6 0QL
BACH TO BABY AT BURGH HOUSE Wednesday 20 June and Wednesday 4 July, 10.30am. Although Bach to Baby operates throughout London and beyond in year-round dates, the sessions are Burgh House are particularly appealing thanks to the beautiful venue. Concerts last for around an hour and make for a relaxing, unusual activity for parents and children alike. Admission: Adults, £12; children
The Enormous Elephant Run
Admission: Free.
Brockwell Park, London SE24 9BL lambethcountryshow.co.uk The 3foot People Festival
Admission: Free.
Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich SE10 9NN festival.org
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Monday 23 June to Friday 27 July. This five-day project uses drama to explore who we are and how we make up our global community. Open to children aged between seven and nine, the course will concentrate on devising writing and acting skills, after which the class will take part in a short performance. Admission: £40 per term.
Community Centre, London N1 2EH littleangeltheatre.com
THE SUMMER OF BIG QUESTIONS : WHO?
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WHAT’S ON
THE GREAT SUMMER OF ENGINEERING
Giffords Circus
Saturday 21 July to Monday 3 September. From robotics to steam power, youngsters have the chance to take a deep dive into the world of engineering as part of this six-week summer activity. Children are invited to take a look at feats of the past and meet real-life engineers working today, collecting sticker rewards for each activity attended.
Midsummer Horse Carriage Rides
MIDSUMMER HORSE CARRIAGE RIDES Thursday 21 to Sunday 24 June. Pulled by magnificent shire horses, these carriage rides through Richmond Park are nothing short of magical. Each carriage seats six people, and once inside you’ll be taken for an hour-long ride through the park – the perfect midsummer treat. Suitable for children aged eight and over. Admission: £125 per pair.
Holly Lodge, Richmond Park,
GIFFORDS CIRCUS Thursday 28 June to Monday 9 July, performance times vary. This old-fashioned circus brings charm, humour and fantastic costumes to some of the most beautiful locations. In London, it settles at Chiswick House and Gardens. With acrobatics, dance, songs, horses and a big bear, this is a visual treat for all families.
Admission: Adults, from £15; children,
London TW10 5HS
from £10.
royalparks.org.uk
Chiswick House and Gardens, Burlington Lane, London W4 2RP
WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT
giffordscircus.com
Wednesday 4 July to Sunday 2 September. This live performance of Michael Rosen’s charming and enduringly popular book is set to be captivating. The story follows a family of intrepid adventurers, who set out to catch a bear, splashing through rivers, squelching through thick, oozy mud and swishing through long grass – only to be chased home when they find him!
RHS HAMPTON COURT PAL ACE FLOWER SHOW
Admission: £15 each.
Hampton Court Palace, East
The Lyric Theatre, London W6 0QL
Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU
bearhuntlive.com
rhs.org.uk
Tuesday 3 to Sunday 8 July. Children and adults will be in awe of the beautiful horticultural displays at Hampton Court for the world’s biggest flower show. This year, a ‘river’ of Verbena bonariensis is being cultivated especially for the event, resulting in a tremendous floral vision.
HERE BE DRAGONS Until Sunday 30 September, from 10am. Children will love hunting for dragons in the beautiful surroundings of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew. Leaflets for the trail can be found at every entrance gate, to help you find each of the dragon sculptures. There’s also an entire exhibition dedicated to the sculptures next to Kew Palace.
Admission: Adults, from £16; children,
Admission: Free.
from £4; under-fours go free.
London Transport Museum, Covent
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew,
Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB
Richmond TW9 3AE
ltmuseum.co.uk
kew.org
DOUBLE ACT
MONSTROUS !
Friday 15 June to Sunday 5 August, performance times vary. For children aged seven and older, this hilarious adaptation of Jacqueline Wilson’s multi-award winning book Double Act tells the story of identical twins Ruby and Garnet, who do absolutely everything together. But their lives are about to drastically change, after their father impulsively buys a bookshop in the middle of the countryside.
Sunday 29 July, 9am to 1.30pm and 2.30pm to 7pm. This one-day family festival debuts in July with an incredible line-up of entertainment. The Chelsea FC Foundation team will be teaching football skills in the Soccer School Zone, and families can also have a go on the world’s largest inflatable obstacle course, where you’ll be able to bounce and dance your way around 32 obstacles.
240 The Broadway, Wimbledon,
Printworks London, Surrey Quays
London SW19 1SB
Road, London SE16 7PJ
polkatheatre.com
monstrouscreations.co.uk
Admission: £10 each.
Admission: £28.50 each.
Monstrous Festival at Printworks
Admission: From £19.50 each.
RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
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LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
GROUPS AND CLASSES Our favourite things to get out and do J O I N GY M N A S T I C S
Classes in Shepherd’s Bush, Streatham, Sydenham and Tooting Bec. The highly experienced team at Benchmark Gymnastics take a holistic approach to teaching, using sport to encourage confidence, leadership and teamwork skills in children aged one to 16 years, through two types of classes. The Parent and Toddler classes are aimed at little ones who have just learnt to walk, through to children up to four years. The programme has been designed by British Gymnastics to help develop physical, social and emotional life skills. The Floor and Vault General Gymnastics classes are for children aged five years and older. benchmarkgym.com
LEARN TO SWIM
SUPER SCIENCE
FO OTBALL C OAC H I N G
Fun and imaginative workshops.
Football fun for all the family.
t: 0800 092 1062 littlehouseofscience.com
t: 020 7937 7965 kiddikicks.co.uk
Little Maths, Rhythm & Shapes and Little Science are two fantastic afterschool workshops that nurture curiosity while making a child’s first steps in the world of maths and science that much easier. Little Maths workshops, for two to four year olds, help to build confidence with quantities and numbers ranging from one to 10. Meanwhile, tackling that other difficult-to-grasp subject, the Little Science workshop for three to eight year olds introduces new scientific concepts in an age-adjusted way, through an exciting mix of discussions, practical demonstrations and scientific experiments.
FUN FRENCH LESSONS
The very best football coaching for toddlers and children aged from 18 months, with Nippers from 18 months, Runners from two-and-a-half years, Racers from threeand-a-half years and Ligasoccer match play from five to 10 years. The classes are unique as they involve the whole family by encouraging parent participation. Get involved and see your child score a hat-trick of football, fitness and fun. Parties, private tutorials, holiday classes, nursery and after-school sessions are also available. Kiddikicks is available to franchise, too. Sign up today to receive your free mini player’s kit.
MAKING MUSIC
Classes in Chelsea, Knightsbridge and South Kensington.
Classes in Chelsea, Putney, Notting Hill and St John’s Wood.
Classes in Knightsbridge, Kensington and Notting Hill.
t: 07557 051904 swimmingrocks.co.uk
t: 020 7385 5565 clubpetitpierrot.co.uk
t: 07530 459468 thelittlelondonmusicschool.com
Swimming Rocks has established itself as London’s most exclusive swim school. Its dedicated teaching team are well-known for their outstanding knowledge. Providing swimming lessons in luxury locations, courses are available for babies, children and adults either on a private or shared basis, or in a small group. And Swimming Rocks’ creative teaching pathway ensures every child develops their individual swimming style. Lessons are available daily during term time, as well as intensive courses in the holidays.
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Club Petit Pierrot, London’s premier French club since 1993, offers innovative, stimulating programmes for children from as young as eight months old. Led by a team of passionate, qualified native teachers, children flourish and learn French effortlessly while having fun with a wide range of activities. The contemporary songs from the club’s educational CD also add to the enjoyment. Language experts agree that learning a second language early on enhances overall cognitive skills and improves a child’s brain development.
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The Little London Music School introduces your child to the joy of music and builds the foundations for learning an instrument. Specialising in classical music, it offers classes and tuition for children aged from six months to five years. The Little London Music School classes feature a tailor-made curriculum for each stage of your child’s development. With professional musicians, teachers and orchestral instruments, its comprehensive curriculum is designed to foster enjoyment and understanding of music. Enjoy a free trial.
BOUTIQUES
SHALIA WEARS JACKET, £114, GOSOAKY. SWEATSHIRT, £39, MINIATURE AT TROUVA. JOGGERS, £35, MINIATURE. TRAINERS, £49, MINI MISS KG. CAP, £65, C.P. COMPANY.
ALEX AND ALEXA
MIMI & LULA
Home to more than 200 fashion, sportswear and toy brands from across the world, Alex and Alexa is one of the coolest online boutiques around. Founded more than a decade ago by husband-and-wife team Alex Theophanous and Alexa Till, the site remains dedicated to offering parents the world’s best kids’ brands at the click of a button. Look out for stylish collections from the likes of Adidas Originals, Billybandit, Stella McCartney Kids, Young Soles and many more.
Let your little one express her unique sense of style with the debut collection from Mimi & Lula. The children’s accessories brand offers colourful clips and hairbands, playful bags, jewellery and fun dress-up pieces featuring cool prints, glitter, pom poms and more. You can shop the collections according to style; is your child a fairy princess or a cool kid? Party girl or school star? Mix and match to your heart’s content – getting ready in the morning has never been so much fun!
alexandalexa.com
mimiandlula.com
PETIT BATEAU
LA COQUETA
Petit Bateau is renowned for its chic, laidback aesthetic, and uses only the finest quality cottons to create iconic, timeless staples for babies, adults and children, from soft knitwear to classic Breton-stripe tees. A Little London favourite, Petit Bateau remains the go-to destination for discerningly stylish parents in the capital who yearn for an injection of classic Gallic chic for their family’s wardrobe.
Inspired by the childhood of founder and mother-of-five Celia Muňoz, La Coqueta’s collection channels the Spanish aesthetic to perfection. Pretty smock designs, ruffled collars, vintage-style frocks and delicate pointelle knits are given a contemporary twist with rich colours and modern prints. Shop here all year round for truly charming clothes to see them through the seasons.
ASOS
ASOS.COM
BEAU LOVES
TROUVA.COM
BOBO CHOSES
ALEXANDALEXA.COM
CARLIJNQ
CARLIJNQ.NL
CONVERSE
OFFICE.CO.UK
C.P. COMPANY
CPCOMPANY.CO.UK
EGG HELMETS
EGGHELMETS.COM
FINGER IN THE NOSE
FINGERINTHENOSE.COM
GIVENCHY
CHILDRENSALON.COM
GOSOAKY
GOSOAKY.COM
ISOSSY CHILDREN
ISOSSYCHILDREN.COM
KENZO
CHILDRENSALON.COM
LOUD APPAREL
LOUD-APPAREL.COM
MINIATURE
MINIATURE.COM
MINI MISS KG
KURTGEIGER.COM
MSGM
FARFETCH.COM
NEXT
NEXT.CO.UK
NOÉ & ZOË
ALEXANDALEXA.COM
THE ANIMALS OBSERVATORY ALEXANDALEXA.COM THE BRAND
ALEXANDALEXA.COM
UNAUTHORIZED
UNAUTHORIZED.DK
Stores across London petit-bateau.com
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Stores in Hampstead, Notting Hill and Battersea lacoquetakids.com
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
PHOTOGRAPHY: HELEN MARSDEN
STOCKIST INFORMATION
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26/04/2018 97 13:50
There are 15 delicious flavours within the Judeʼs range, including Caramel Pecan and Truly Chocolate
THE BUSINESS Chow and Alex Mezger founders of
LITTLE JUDE’S The managing directors of Little Jude’s talk balancing business with family life
in the dairy barn at home, with a mission to make the very best British ice cream. Our mum’s name is Jude, so that’s where the company’s name comes from. A: It wasn’t long before we both got involved, and we now supply some of Britain’s best restaurants, grocers and venues. Why did you launch Little Jude’s? A: Branching off into children’s snacks was
a natural progression after we both had our own children. We launched Little Jude’s with the intention of helping kids to eat more heathily. This is what we were doing every day at home, so it made sense to start doing this at Jude’s.
Describe a typical day for you. C: We are both fortunate enough to work
close to home, so we both get time to hang out with the kids before work. Our day consists of sampling and developing ice creams, designing packaging, planning exciting collaborations, meeting new customers, and discussing ideas with existing customers.
Do you each have distinct roles? C: Alex looks after our customers, I look after
the marketing, and our friend James runs all the operations. We’re a closeknit team and work collaboratively on developing new flavours and ideas.
What’s the best thing about your job? A: We love leading a team of talented,
motivated people towards a shared goal and vision. We want to become Britain’s favourite ice cream, and we get a buzz every day working towards this. What’s been your proudest moment? C: Supplying Wimbledon tennis with our ice
cream has to be up there. Otherwise, it is a genuine thrill to see Jude’s ice cream on the shelves of any shop. We still go and straighten the tubs on the shelf whenever we see them! Milk Lollies joined the Judeʼs range last year
How do you juggle family life with work? C: Our work is flexible, so we can prioritise
time with family. When we all get together we have a rule not to talk about work. This allows us to spend good time together just being family, rather than colleagues.
Where are your favourite familyfriendly spots? A: My kids are members of Battersea Park
Zoo, which is always a fun expedition. This is usually followed by coffee and brunch in the amazing Pear Tree Cafe next to the lake.
If you had to choose, what flavour ice cream would you go for? C: Salted Caramel! As far as we know, we
were the first people to make this flavour of ice cream in Britain, after Alex spotted it on holiday in France. A: I’d have to agree. It’s our best seller and go-to whenever we have friends for dinner.
What’s next for the business? C: We’re working on some great new flavours
for both Jude’s and Little Jude’s. We’ll also be travelling around the country with our icecream-parlour horse trailers this summer, so watch this space! L
judes.co.uk
LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK
PHOTOGRAPHY: INSTAGRAM.COM/JUDESICECREAM
Tell us about the story behind Jude’s. C: Our dad started making ice cream in 2002
INSPIRATION - LEARNING - FUN
INSPIRATION - LEARNING - FUN - -FUN INSPIRATION - LEARNING INSPIRATION - LEARNING FUN
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