Little London April/May 2017

YOUR ULTIMATE GUI DE TO PARE NTING IN STYLE

london

APRIL/MAY 2017 • £3.99

Nicole

Kidman

CAPRICE REVEALS ALL

LIFE IN LONDON AS A MOTHER OF BOYS

THE POWER OF NOW…

MAKE MINDFULNESS PART OF FAMILY LIFE

SPIN CITY

TOP TIPS TO GET YOUR LITTLE ONE ON TWO WHEELS

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Talks about family and her hopes to expand the brood

CHIN UP, KID! TEACH YOUR CHILD EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE

T he g re a t

OUTTH E DOO IS SU R E

E SCAPE

EASTER EVENTS, CITY BREAKS WITH THE KIDS, SPRING FASHION FOR LITTLE ADVENTURERS

The brand new picture book

More sweet adventures from award-winning author Sophy Henn:

AVA WEARS COAT, £29.99, ZARA. SKIRT, FROM £72, BONPOINT. SHOES, FROM £65, YOUNG SOLES. MIKEL WEARS SUIT JACKET, £220, AND TROUSERS, £105, BOTH MARIE-CHANTAL. T-SHIRT (JUST SEEN), £51, CARAMEL. SANDALS, FROM £102, BONPOINT.

WELCOME With spring well and truly in the air, it’s time to release the children! Both of my kids tend to go stir crazy if they are kept indoors for too long – leaving a wake of destruction in their path – so we’re all relishing the opportunity to venture outside a little more and run wild. And there’s no better time to enjoy London’s parks, in all their daffodil-swathed glory, and enjoy the best of the season in our ‘great escape’ issue.

We have a brilliantly jam-packed agenda of things to enjoy with the family in the capital this Easter (p.105), Rob Kemp gives an invaluable guide to cycling in the city with kids (p.60) and Georgina Blaskey and her children venture further afield with their guide to the best family-friendly city breaks (p.92).

And, as if that wasn’t adventure enough, Abi Campbell’s beautiful fashion shoot was captured on location in Zanzibar (p.50).

We were also lucky enough to interview Australian-born actress and mother of four Nicole Kidman about her Oscar-nominated role in Lion and juggling work and motherhood (p.44). And Caprice gives an insight into life as a mother of two little boys in My Little London (p.26). Being a parent can be a minefield but with the right tools it’s easier to navigate. Amber Hatch’s Mindfulness for Parents is a must read (p.75), as well as our fascinating feature about teaching your kids to be resilient and bounce back when life knocks them down (p.99).

If you’ve got a fussy eater on your hands, Becky Dickinson’s tricks to get them to eat might be just the ticket (p.86) and we love Leonora Bamford’s ideas for sweet treats to make at home this Easter (p.82).

Last but not least, Happy Mother’s Day to all the mummies out there, we hope you will be spoilt rotten on Sunday 26 March!

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PRINTED BACKPACK £12 MARKSANDSPENCER.COM

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MIMI LOU COTTON CUSHION £37 BOBOKIDS.CO.UK

www.youngsoles.co.uk Š2017. All rights reserved Young Soles, Photography by Emma Donnelly.

C O N T E NaprT ilSmay 2 017 FE ATU R ES

EDUCATION

26 MY LITTLE LONDON

97 EDUCATION NEWS

Caprice Bourret on family life in the capital

30 TIME TO EXPLORE The best books about the great outdoors

Keeping you in the know

99 HOW TO RAISE A RESILIENT CHILD Keep your kids confident in their choices

32 MEET THE AUTHOR Talking feminism with Yasmeen Ismail

102 MEET THE HEAD We catch up with Michelle McLelland of

44 A MOTHER’S LOVE Actress Nicole Kidman on how she achieves the ever-elusive work life balance

59 SAVVY SHOP REPORT

North Bridge House Nursery and Pre-Prep

T R AVEL 89 TRAVEL NEWS

How our spending habits on our children's

Our round-up for little globetrotters

wardrobes has changed

90 POSTCARD FROM ISLE OF SKYE 60 WHEEL YOUR WAY

Beena Nadeem reports from an active adventure in Scotland

Rob Kemp shares his advice for getting children in London on their bikes

92 URBAN ADVENTURES 65 THE ROAD TEST

The best places to head for a family city break to remember

Putting the Yippie Yo through its paces

66 READ ALL ABOUT IT… The parenting blogs to watch

R EGUL A R S 11

75 MINDFULNESS FOR PARENTS

LITTLE NEWS The latest on all things big in kid world

Finding your way to a calmer family life

29 DIARY 79 SPRING BREAK

Goings-on around the capital this spring

Dad blogger Jamie Day is ready to welcome the season with open arms

35 INSTA INSPO The Woodland Wife talks outdoor living

86 HOW TO FOOL A FUSSY EATER Get them to eat their greens and more with these good-to-know tips

SHO PPING 19 LITTLE LOVES

48 MOTHER STYLE Springtime fashion fixes for mamas

70 PARTY TIME WITH CAROLE MIDDLETON Throw the ultimate Easter party

Our must-have for those blustery days

81 INTERIOR NEWS 21 RAIN OR SHINE

Stylish updates and inspiring finds

Shop our edit of outdoorsy gifts and fashion

82 GET CRAFTY 73 SPRING’S BEST BEAUTY BUYS

New family activities from Leonora Bamford

The hero products of the season

85 FOOD NEWS

ST YLE

Dining delights for little ones

36 NATURE’S CHILD Nostalgia meets nature for hazy spring style PHOTOGRAPHER: KATRINA LAWSON JOHNSTON MODEL: AVA COAT, £29.99, ZARA

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

50 WILD AT HEART Dance until dusk in the coolest of prints

7

105 AGENDA What’s on over the next two months

114 THE BUSINESS Behind the scenes with Wild & Gorgeous

THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS BECKY DICKINSON

ROB KEMP

Journalist

Writer and cycling expert Where do you live?

Where do you live?

After years spent living in London and Surrey, we moved to Devon in 2014. I live with my partner, three children and our dog.

Isleworth, West London with my wife, Amanda, and son, Stanley.

What’s the best thing about spring?

Seeing all the new bulbs burst into life, and the sense of optimism.

Do you have big plans for Easter?

Planting seeds in our garden, eating (the kids’) chocolate, enjoying not having to do the school run, catching up with friends and family. And hoping it doesn’t rain…

Becky reveals how to fool a fussy eater on p.86

What do you love about spring?

I live near the river and the spring tides can be quite exciting! Also, the Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park is well worth a visit when it is in full bloom.

What are your plans for Easter?

We are heading to Rome for a long weekend away – checking out the sights and the vino!

Rob shares his tips for cycling with children on p.60

little london EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF KATE FREUD MANAGING EDITOR REBECCA MOORE FEATURES EDITOR DANIELLE WILKINS EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ANNIE QUINTON

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS LEONORA BAMFORD, MARISSA HERMER, CAROLE MIDDLETON

DESIGN CREATIVE DIRECTOR CHLOË COLLYER DESIGNER NATALIE DOURADO

PUBLISHING PUBLISHER CAROLINE SCOTT BRAND MANAGERS CHATTY DOBSON, GINNY MACLEAN MARKETING EXECUTIVE CATRINA LINZ FINANCE DIRECTOR VICKI GAVIN DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER JAMES DOBSON CIRCULATION MANAGER DANIEL WEBB

ADVERTISING HEAD OF MARKET LESHNA PIRIE SALES EXECUTIVES HARRIET COTTRELL, KATIE JACKSON, EMMA PAYNE DIGITAL AND CREATIVE SOLUTIONS MANAGER BEN LEEK SPECIAL PROJECTS TRISTAN COATES

JOIN US ONLINE Dip in and get your daily digital fix

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MANAGING DIRECTOR PAUL DOBSON DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR STEVE ROSS LITTLE LONDON IS PUBLISHED BY THE CHELSEA MAGAZINE COMPANY LTD, JUBILEE HOUSE, 2 JUBILEE PLACE, LONDON SW3 3TQ WEB: LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK EMAIL: EDITOR@LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK TEL: 020 7349 3700 FAX: 020 7349 3701

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NEWS

little NEWS Updating you on all things big in kid world

KINGDOM OF COOL

Stop the press; there’s a new childrenswear label in town.

Kingdom of Origin creates premium clothes for girls aged four to 11, and prides itself on sourcing materials and manufacturing designs right here in the UK. The first collection, The Starlet, is inspired by the British rock ‘n’ roll era, with a touch of bohemian charm thrown in for good measure. Pieces from £35, kingdomoforigin.co.uk

You’ll fall head over heels for Kingdom of Origin’s luxuriously soft fabrics and spirited designs

Go Ape swings into Alexandra Palace Park this spring, with a treetop adventure course made for little monkeys. Kids can take on the high ropes, wobbly crossings and nets, followed by the heart-thumping 50m zip wire finale. goape.co.uk LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

11

NEWS

BE OUR GUEST

As wedding season approaches, River Island is making its first foray into children’s occasionwear, with an adorable 11-piece collection. The range includes smart pieces for special events, from feather capes and tutu dresses for girls, to waistcoat and shirt sets and paisley-print ties and pocket squares for the boys.

Sizes range from 12 months to 12 years, so little ones of all ages can look the part.

Available from April.

From £10, in selected stores and online, riverisland.com

Must-see show Adventures in Wonderland, based on Lewis Carroll’s classic novel, is back for another year. The multisensory experience takes families on a journey through Wonderland, fusing puppetry, music and storytelling. From 13 May to 3 September, tickets from £15.50. alice-underground.com

BOX C LE VE R

Kids who aren’t infatuated with giant, unsightly cardboard boxes are few and far between. Thankfully, Danish brand Hulki has come up with an alternative with its larger-than-life animal playhouses. The strong cardboard creations are 100% recyclable too, for when they’ve moved on to new adventures. £69.99, toyella.com

Nailed it

Now little ones can paint their own nails with Miss Nella’s child-friendly polishes.

The water-based formula is odourless, toxic-free and simply peels off with no need for polish remover. Suitable from age three years, there’s plenty of bright colours to choose from, including some party-ready glitter varnishes. £5.99, missnella.com

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BEST DRESSED

The 25-year-old high street favourite, Trotters has opened a new flagship store on Kensington High Street. The space will stock the full range of childrenswear, swimwear and toys, with its famous hairdressing service available too. While you’re shopping, impatient kids can be kept occupied with the Jolly Trotter pirate ship installation. trotters.co.uk

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

With over 30 configurations and an integrated ride-on-board, the new British designed and engineered iCandy Orange is packed with innovation. Featuring our trademark elevator adaptors, unique 'cinema' double seating mode and a 64 litre basket, the Orange lead the field whilst still being compact enough to fit through a standard door.

Brilliantly flexible, beautifully crafted and absolutely futureproof.

NEWS

Watch this space

HAPPY FEET

Oh, how we rejoiced when we heard luxury shoe label Aquazzura had launched a line for little girls.

Reinterpreting some of the the brand’s iconic women’s designs, the playful collection features plenty of colourful pom-poms, fringing and lace-up details. The range is available at Aquazzura’s Mayfair boutique. 38 Albemarle Street, aquazzura.com

There were plenty of new and inspiring brands at Bubble London this year; from clothing to toys and interiors. Here are our picks to look out for this season…

TRIXIE BABY

Children’s charity Over The Wall has revealed its Superhero for Superhero campaign, fronted by presenter Natalie Pinkham. It asks the public to donate money or fancy dress outfits for the brave children attending its summer camps. The camps aim to help seriously ill children make life-long memories and new friends. otw.org.uk

HANNAH & TIFF

BULB LONDON

BATHTI M E B LI S S

Bonpoint has added new products to its luxurious bodycare range. The foaming shower gel, formulated with silk extracts to hydrate, and the body lotion, a creamy yet light moisturiser, both carry the brand’s signature orange blossom scent. Little ones can indulge from age six and up – if mum doesn’t beat them to it. From £33, bonpoint.com

A playful read

Design-led label Noodoll has released its first book, A Day in Ricetown. Featuring the brand’s familiar playful characters, get busy with puzzles, games and drawing activities. Particularly dexterous little ones can even have a go at the origami, too. £9.95, Thames & Hudson

MUESLII

TOTO LONDON LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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NEWS

INSIDE AND OUT

Save space, money and washing with the clever clothing from Belgian label Bonjour Maurice. Almost everything is reversible, with one side featuring a bold block colour, the other a fun print. Sizes range from three months to 10 years. bonjourmaurice.be

Panda pals

With less than 2,000 giant pandas left in the world, the ever-charitable TOMS has teamed up with WildAid to support the conservation of the rare animal. The special shoe collection features five designs for men, women and kids, adorned with a stylish panda print. From £25.99, toms.co.uk

30,000 additional childcare places could be created if more families shared a nanny, saving parents as much as £13,000 a year. The research found that, at present, only 17% of nannies work in child shares. Find out more at korukids.co.uk

Win a swimming bundle

With the sun beginning to make a somewhat vague appearance at home, we’re all officially on summer-holiday countdown. This issue, Little London has teamed up with children’s swimwear brand Konfidence to give away three exclusive swimming bundles, worth £65 each. The three lucky winners will receive an Original Konfidence Swim Jacket to ensure mini swimmers feel safe and secure, neoprene DiveStiks to aid and build confidence under water, and a Swimology bag to keep all their items safe. konfidence.co.uk. Entert online at littlelondonmagazine.com/competitions

WIN!

SING IT LOUD Check out the new album from Kidz Bop – the four-piece band creating family-friendly versions of today’s biggest pop songs.

The members’ – all aged between 11 and 12 – debut album features 22 hits from the likes of Taylor Swift and Little Mix, with any colourful language toned down.

Available on iTunes and Amazon Music. kidzbop.co.uk

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R AI N S U P R E M E

Face those pesky April showers in style with Muddy Puddles’ new raincoat design for children. Teaming up with fellow British brand The Bright Company, the Puddle Pac-a-Mac has been reimagined in a fun arrow print, inspired

by American sculptor Alexander Calder. The lightweight coat is entirely waterproof, and can be packed away into its own pocket when not in use. £24, muddypuddles.com

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

It’s time to plan to put your toes in the sand, get a little sunshine and experience your best Florida holiday ever. Come discover a holiday destination filled with memories that will last a lifetime. Take a farm tour.

Zip through treetops at an adventure park.

Ride horseback across the shoreline. From beachside villages to historic downtowns, it’s Florida at its most real and authentic.

BradentonGulfIslands.com

Travel to Anna Maria Island, Florida, staying in a 3 bedroom luxury family home from ÂŁ1059 per person based on 4 adults and 2 children sharing.

Price includes return flights and self-catering accommodation. Departures between 13 July and 2 August 2017. Subject to availability.

To book call 020 3542 8888 or visit www.travelplanners.co.uk/AMI

Cool in Summer. Warm in Winter Superfine Merino for small people lovemysmalls.com

SHOPPING

little loves…

‘April showers bring forth May flowers’ or so the proverb says, and this joyful petal-strewn jacket with removable hood from Stella McCartney will certainly put a spring in your little one’s step. Throw on as required, and when the clouds eventually clear, pack away in its handy pouch which can be worn around the waist.

FLORAL-PRINT JACKET £106 STELLAMCCARTNEY.COM

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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It’s time to embrace the great outdoors – whatever the weather – with the season’s brightest pieces

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WOVEN STRAW HAT £62 BONPOINT.COM

AGATHA RUIZ DE LA PRADA COTTON JERSEY DRESS £37 CHILDRENSALON.COM

RUBBER WELLIES £16 JOJOMAMANBEBE.CO.UK

WAKAMONO COTTON JACKET £55 TODDLIES.COM

WOOL BLANKET £59.99 DOBBIES.COM

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COTTON SHORT DUNGAREES £36 DOTTYDUNGAREES.COM

COTTON LEGGINGS £12 LILCUBS.CO.UK

THE OAK & ROPE COMPANY PERSONALISED SWING £190 JOHNLEWIS.COM

SUNOGRAPHY COLOUR PRINT PAPER £10 LIBERTYLONDON.COM

CANVAS TRAINERS £20 CLARKS.CO.UK

OILILY RAINCOAT £123 CHILDRENSALON.COM

PENNY BOARDS SKATEBOARD £170 SELFRIDGES.COM

LEATHER BAG £55 ZATCHELS.COM

ORGANIC COTTON SWEATER £33 TOOTSA.COM

COTTON T-SHIRT £30 NOE-ZOE.COM

STELLA MCCARTNEY COTTON DRESS £74.95 HARRODS.COM

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Everything that parents need for stress free getaways in luxury villas and 5* resorts

Call 0800 014 2770 or visit www.totstotravel.co.uk

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PAUL SMITH JUNIOR HOODED JACKET £100 HARRODS.COM

LEATHER SHOES £49 STARTRITESHOES.COM

MOLO KIDS COTTON T-SHIRT £40 ALEXANDALEXA.COM

MATHY BY BOLS WOODEN TREEHOUSE BED £2,590 DIDDLETINKERS.CO.UK

BLANCA GÓMEZ PRINT £30 CAROLINEMCGRATH.CO.UK

IZIPIZI SUNGLASSES £30.10 EN.SMALLABLE.COM

COTTON CUSHION £25 LULUANDNAT.COM

COTTON-BLEND SWEATER £32 BODEN.CO.UK

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PRINTED BACKPACK £25 CATHKIDSTON.COM

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INTERVIEW The family has a second home in Ibiza

The mum says she is kept busy at the weekends

With her co-stars on The Jump

Enjoying down time with her boys, Jett and Jax

The model’s lingerie, sleepwear and swimwear ranges continue to thrive

GREY MARL SWEATER £12.99 ZARA.COM

With her partner, financier Ty Comfort

The family live in London’s Notting Hill

By Caprice Home

26

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

INTERVIEW

My Little London

CAPRICE BOURRET THE MODEL, TV PERSONALITY AND MOTHER OF TWO SHARES ALL ABOUT FAMILY LIFE IN THE CAPITAL WITH HER THREE-YEAR-OLD BOYS, JETT AND JAX Caprice admits she has a whole new incentive to work now she is a mother

to adapt accordingly. Whichever range is working well, we just order more and keep on topping it up, and then, of course, we have new designs coming in once every three months or so.

Where do you live in London?

I live West, in Notting Hill.

What do you all get up to on the weekend?

We love going to Kidzania and Gambado, and we usually have a couple of play dates lined up, too. On Saturdays, the boys have piano lessons, a karate lesson and swimming lessons, so we’re always very busy!

Where do you shop for your boys?

I get a lot of stuff from Zara. And I love going to TK Maxx – it has the best designer clothes.

I’ve found the Hammersmith branch is the best one for kids. I also love Baby Gap and OshKosh when I’m back in America.

What do you miss about California?

INTERVIEW: ANNIE QUINTON. PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, INSTAGRAM.COM/CAPRICEBOURRET

The only things I miss are my family and the sun – that’s it.

What’s the best thing about being a mum?

Everything. Oh my gosh, I don’t know where to begin! I would do anything for them – my whole life is based around the wellbeing of my children. I have a different kind of incentive when I work now – a fire in my body to do well and make money because I want my kids to have a great future. It just gives you a purpose. I’ve said this time and time again, but in my past, I was so, ‘me me me’, but now it’s just all about my kids.

What has motherhood taught you so far?

It’s funny when people tell you, ‘When you have kids, your whole life is going to be LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Would you ever consider designing other pieces for the home?

about your children, your life is going to change dramatically’. I said no – but they were so right! They are what you live for. It’s something that’s hard to understand before you become a mother. My boys are now climbing into bed with me at 5am every day, but when I wake up and see their little faces brushing my face – that is what I live for.

Where do you go to escape the city?

We have another home in Ibiza. We have 10 horses there, and you walk outside the door and it’s the most beautiful hike you’ve ever seen. The outdoor life is amazing for the children; it’s what I grew up with in California. They’re not allowed to watch TV or go on the iPad; they’re just outside picking up frogs, going on hikes, riding the horses.

It’s how it should be.

You’ve been designing lingerie for many years, and now you have a By Caprice home range. Talk us through the design process.

By Caprice Home includes duvets, runners, filled cushions and curtains. My designer and I keep an eye on current trends, and she goes to the shows in Paris twice a year. I also look closely at my sales – each week I get reports on every line and range that I have.

I see what’s working, what’s not, and we try 27

I would love to design furniture one day. But right now I’m just trying to keep up with the growth of what we have!

How do you juggle your work with being a mother?

It’s a tough one – and I wish I had a winning formula but I just don’t. I fit in work when the kids sleep, in between school runs, bath time, breakfast, lunch and dinner.

You recently appeared in Channel 4’s The Jump. How was that for you?

I loved it. I loved everyone involved. I had a really good experience. My kids were there with me and they learnt how to ski – they’re now brilliant skiers! You’ve never seen anything so cute in your life – little three year olds on this massive slope. I was so impressed.

What other projects do you have coming up this year?

I’ve just finished filming for a small part in the cult movie series Sharknado and for a short Netflix film called Intruders. The two characters were quite similar – really tough, hard-hitting women who were as cold as ice, with absolutely no emotion. Like a female version of Al Pacino – it was just brilliant fun.

Both films are out in the summer time. L gobycaprice.com

READER EVENT

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Sunday 21 May

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WHAT’S ON

There’s a whole host of Easter fun for all the family going on in the capital

DIARY

April

1

A new animatronic experience will see life-sized dinosaurs taking over UK parks this spring.

Jurassic Kingdom: Where Dinosaurs Come To Life will kick off today at Osterley Park in West London, where the dinosaurs will stay until 17 April.

Adults, £13.50; children, £11.50.

What to do and where to go in the capital over the next two months

jurassickingdom.uk

7

Returning to the big screen, Peppa Pig My First Cinema Experience offers an hour of fun in theatres around the capital with nine new episodes. David Mitchell lends his voice to Policeman Panda and Jo Brand voices Mrs Crocodile.

May

10

peppa1stcinema.co.uk

15

Soho’s oriental hotspot with space-age décor and interactive table tops, Inamo, is hosting a kids’ sushi-making masterclass. Children can try their hand at making maki rolls with the restaurant’s sushi

BILLIEBLUSH RAINCOAT £48 HARRODS.COM

EASTER BAKING SET £12 HEDGEHOGSHOP.CO.UK

master. £17.50 per child.

inamo-restaurant.com

16

Will you be enjoying an egg hunt around the park?

Or a family gathering in the garden? Read Carole Middleton’s tips on how to celebrate Easter Sunday on p.70.

Today is your last chance to shop the Billieblush pop-up at Harrods. Head to the Mini Designers room on the fourth floor to see the bright and playful spring collection.

13

Back for a third year, Barnes Children’s Literature Festival is a weekend committed to some of the best-known names in children’s books alongside new Be transported back in time at Osterley Park

21 Make sushi at Inamo

Although the Queen celebrates her official birthday in June, today is her actual birthday. Listen out for the gun salutes – usually at Hyde Park and the Tower of London.

talent. Catering for ages two to teen, events will take place at various venues around Barnes Pond. barneskidslitfest.org

20label Thomas Pink will This Saturday, luxury

transform The White Horse pub on Parsons Green into the Pink Lions Rugby Club for a family festival. Activities, including kids’ masterclasses, Q&As and a barbecue, will kick off at 12.30pm. Register for free at pinklionrugbyclub.co.uk

21

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book The Scarecrows’ Wedding takes to the stage at Artsdepot in North Finchley today and promises 55 minutes of wit, drama and wedding bells. For ages three and over.

scarecrowslive.com

WHAT TO DO THIS EASTER

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

ZOO ADVENTURES Don’t just give your attention to bunnies and chicks this Easter, ZSL London Zoo is celebrating the 35th anniversary of Rod Campbell’s Dear Zoo from 1 to 17 April. Kids can explore on a self-guided trail around the zoo, discovering the animals

that inspired the nation’s favourite childhood read. zsl.org

GIANT DUCK HUNT For an Easter event like no other, head to WWT Wetland Centre and follow the Easter giant duck trail around the beautiful nature reserve. Find

them all, and you'll win a chocolate prize. From 1 to 17 April, £1 per trail. wwt.org.uk

LITTLE EGGS-PLORERS

THE GREAT EGG ROLL

From 24 March to 10 April, Kidzania is adding Easter activities to the child-size city. Find the hidden eggs, create Easter paintings and greetings cards, and become a master chocolatier at the Chocolate Factory. london.kidzania.com

Have you ever tested how far can you roll an egg? Join in with the Great Egg Roll event at Lauderdale House in Highgate, and little ones can also try their hand at a spot of egg decorating and egg hunting. lauderdalehouse.co.uk

BOOKS

2-4 YEARS

5-7 YEARS

8-10 YEARS

Hidden World: Forest

In Focus: Cities

Atlas of Miniature Adventures

BY LIBBY WALDEN AND STEPHANIE

BY LIBBY WALDEN

BY LUCY LEATHERLAND AND EMILY HAWKINS

FIZER COLEMAN

An enchanting introduction to flora and fauna. Lift the flaps to explore the woodland, learning facts as you go.

Discover fascinating facts about 10 world-famous cities. An intriguing introduction to geography, sure to trigger a thirst for adventure.

A magnificent pocket-sized book crammed with fascinating maps, puzzles and curiosities from seven continents. Perfect for inquisitive minds.

360 Degrees • £9.99

360 Degrees • £15.99

Wide Eyed Editions • £6.99

Safe & Sound

The Big Book of Beasts

Pax

BY JEAN ROUSSEN AND LORIS LORA

BY YUVAL ZOMMER

BY SARA PENNYPACKER AND JON KLASSEN

A soothing rhyming story about the nurturing relationship animals have with their young. A perfect introduction to the natural world – a book to treasure.

An enormous fun-packed book filled with all creatures great and small.

Ever wondered how a hippo marks his territory? This is the book for you…

A heart-wrenching story about a boy and his unbreakable bond with a wild fox. Hauntingly atmospheric, this has all the makings of a future classic.

Flying Eye Books • £11.99

Thames and Hudson • £12.95

Harper Collins • £12.99

A Busy Day for Birds

Good Morning, Good Night

Secret Tree Fort

BY LUCY COUSINS

BY RICHARD JONES AND LIBBY WALDEN

BY BRIANNE FARLEY

This fantastically bold book will have little ones jumping, flapping, swooping and singing along as they learn all about these beautiful feathered friends.

A deeply immersive observation of day breaking on a mountainside. This book perfectly illustrates the never-ending possibilities of nature.

What better way to embrace the environment than getting outside? A charming tale about siblings and the limitless power of the imagination.

Walker Books • £11.99

Caterpillar Books • £12.95

Walker Books • £11.99

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LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

ACTIVITY

The Sky Guys

BY MADELEINE ROGERS

Get creative with this super-stylish combination of story and craft. This book comes with five easy-to-make birds and scenes for little ones.

Button Books • £12.99

Show + Tell Animal Activities

BY NOUS VOUS

This pack includes posters, stickers and a colouring book. Hours of fun will be had while building observation skills and mastering first words.

ILLUSTRATION: A BUSY DAY FOR BIRDS BY LUCY COUSINS

Wide Eyed Editions • £6.99

Forest Life and Woodland Creatures This crafty book introduces little ones to forest life. Learn how to make bird feeders and bear masks, all the while learning about woodland creatures.

DK Publishing • £7.99

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

TIME to explore

EMMA O’DONOVAN ROUNDS UP HER FAVOURITE BOOKS ABOUT THE GREAT OUTDOORS

RUNNING HEAD

Yasmeen’s latest book features a series of fun art activities to encourage young readers to express themselves

MEET THE AUTHOR

Yasmeen Ismail The award-winning children’s illustrator and author talks new work, feminism and artistic heroes

Happy, Sad, Feeling Glad is the third in the Draw & Discover series, so really this story starts with the first two books. With Inside, Outside, Upside Down I wanted to take intangible ideas and help kids put them into context. I created three characters to take them through it; Bear, Duck and Rabbit. When it came to Happy, Glad, Feeling Sad the same rules applied. Three characters – Donkey, Cat and Dog – and activities in which to explore intangible ideas – this time, feelings and emotions.

So how does the Draw & Discover series differ from your other books?

The style is more graphic and the palette, of course, is very limited.

It’s not up to me to make the books colourful this time. I have to leave space for the children

he was talking about – I owe him a lot really.

to draw, paint and stick. These books are for them; it’s their space to play with.

You are known for challenging children’s stereotypes. Where does that passion stem from?

How did you first get into illustration, and what drew you to children’s books?

I spent my twenties working as an animator and co-owned a small production company.

When we drew a line under that, I was left wondering what to do with myself. Illustration was always in the back of my mind – I decided this was the time to take the leap. So, I got a portfolio together and enrolled onto an evening class. After nearly a year of work, I found an agent.

Originally I wasn’t sure what sort of illustrator I would be, but I had a meeting with an agent a long time ago. I went in with my portfolio, full of black and white pictures, and he told me, “Your work is leaning towards children’s illustration, but you need to work in colour.” I knew he knew what

I’m a Girl came from my sister, originally. When we were kids she would often be mistaken for a boy and it drove her crazy. And, of course, there is a new wave of feminism right now, something I feel strongly about. I have been given a small platform and I decided to try and do something with it. I never want to waste an opportunity to give my opinion!

Are any of your other characters based on real people?

Actually, now I think of it, Gracie in Christmas Time for Greta and Gracie is loosely based on 32

my niece, and Lila in Nothing! is based on her sister, and Fred in Time for Bed, Fred is based on Rocky, a friend’s dog. Ha! So yes!

Who are your inspirations?

I meet incredible people all the time. I recently met Marion Deuchars, she is lovely. And Laura Carlin – wow! I love the work of Axel Scheffler, Maira Kalman, Lucy Cousins, Marta Altes… but on a personal level, my husband, my sister, my son.

What does this year hold?

Well, I am just coming off maternity leave and straight into a new book. Then another after that, and another and another… until one day, I will look in the mirror and realise I am 140 years old. L Happy, Sad, Feeling Glad (£8.99, Laurence King) is out 3 April

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

INTERVIEW: DANIELLE WILKINS. PHOTOGRAPHY: OLIVIA HEMINGWAY.

You’re back with a new title – tell us more about Happy, Sad, Feeling Glad.

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I N S TA I N S P O

@thewoodlandwife We’ve left the city in search of some calm, as we catch up with JESSICA CRESSWELL aka The Woodland Wife

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other Jessica swapped life as a graphic designer in the city for the Kent countryside, where she now lives with her husband and three year old daughter. Her blog, The Woodland Wife, is a hub of eco parenting ideas, and her inspirational Instagram account boasts everything from cool crafts to snapshots of life from her rural home.

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What do you love most about Instagram?

The community! It’s a wonderful place to reach out and be inspired. I have formed bonds with some lovely people, some even turning from ‘followers’ into friends.

What’s the secret to a great Instagram photo?

I think the key is to not overthink it and just share an honest account of a moment, while trying to remain consistent in your photo ‘style’.

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

35

Who are your inspirations?

There are so many accounts I enjoy. A tiny taster of the accounts I love visiting include photographer @siobhanwatts, artist @rebecca.kathryn, @littlemaldod, @thegelfis, @allthatisshe, @lapinblu and @me_and_orla.

You’re an advocate for ethical living; which brands are you coveting right now?

This is a topic that I am hugely passionate about, not just for myself, but my daughter too.

Children’s brands we absolutely adore right now include Nellie Quats and Little Cotton Clothes, while the beauty brand I couldn’t be without is Green People; I use its AgeDefy+ range, as well as its children’s products on my daughter. The Soothing Baby Salve is great for those little emergencies that often crop up while on the go, but I also use it on myself! L

THIS PAGE: ELYSIA WEARS SALOPETTES, £17, NICOQO AT JAXON JAMES. BLOUSE, £42, PEPA & CO. HEADBAND, £5, AND SOCKS (PACK OF THREE), £7, BOTH NEXT. SHOES, £65, YOUNG SOLES. BAG, £67, BONPOINT. RIGHT PAGE: HARRY WEARS SHIRT, £45, WILD & GORGEOUS. TROUSERS, £68, AND BAG, £51, BOTH THE ANIMALS OBSERVATORY AT ALEX AND ALEXA. BELT, £51, BONPOINT.

nature’s child

PHOTOGRAPHER: KATRINA LAWSON JOHNSTON STYLIST: YVADNEY DAVIS HAIR & MAKE-UP: AMY ATKINS

ELYSIA WEARS CARDIGAN, £84, AND TROUSERS, £80, BOTH CARAMEL. BLOUSE, £47.30, HUNDRED PIECES AT SMALLABLE. SOCKS (PACK OF THREE), £7, AND SANDALS, £19, BOTH NEXT. HARRY WEARS SHIRT, £72.30, THE ANIMALS OBSERVATORY AT ALEX AND ALEXA. TROUSERS, £42, LA COQUETA. SHOES, £73, YOUNG SOLES.

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With thanks to: Models: Ava, Elysia, Harry, Mikel. Model agencies: Bruce & Brown, Bonnie & Betty.

Photographer’s assistant: James Davey

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INTERVIEW

A mother’s

LOVE

SINCE STARRING IN THE OSCAR-NOMINATED FILM LION, NICOLE KIDMAN TELLS KAREN ANNE OVERTON HOW SHE RELATES TO THE MOVING STORY, AND HOW HAVING HER OWN CHILDREN ON SET HELPS IN ACHIEVING A WORK-LIFE BALANCE “THEIR STORY SEEMED UNBELIEVABLE TO ME,” SAYS A WIDE-EYED NICOLE Kidman. “How is this a real-life story? How could he have been taken away from his family in those circumstances, then attempt to locate them through the use of technology and memory? The magnitude of what Saroo did is astounding. How was that possible?”

Those same questions have been asked by cinemagoers globally as they flocked to see Lion, the incredible true-life story of Saroo Brierley, a boy adopted by an Australian couple after he was separated at age five from his Indian brother and mother, and who later used Google Earth to track down his family and rediscover his roots.

Kidman gives the performance of a lifetime as Sue Brierley, Saroo’s adoptive mother, drawing from a wealth of personal experience. Having adopted two children – Isabella, now 24, and Connor, 22 – during her first marriage to Tom Cruise, the 49-year-old knows all too well the highs and lows that come with raising little ones who are

not biologically your own.

For Kidman the actress, the process of bringing the moving story to life on screen was much more than just a job, but also a welcome break from “some intense roles”.

“While the exploration and the journey is highly satisfying and rewarding, it’s really nice to be part of a film that is sad but is still so full of hope and joy and the goodness of people,” she says.

“It’s for all mothers and all children, not just adoptive; it’s for all mothers who feel unconditional love for their children. It’s about love,” she says. “I saw the film with my sister, who has six children, and she bawled her eyes out and called it ‘an experience’. She’s my gauge, my barometer.”

Of course, Kidman can gauge such things pretty well herself, with her two young daughters – Sunday, eight, and Faith, five – keeping her very much a mum first and an actress second. The secret, she says, is finding the right balance – although that’s as hard as it sounds. “I don’t know how practical it is to live life by rule when you’re raising children, but they’ll come wherever I’m working,” she smiles. “But it has to work for them and their lives. Their routines and their wants are the priority. I can’t be ripping a five- and an 44

Nicole with husband Keith Urban at this year’s Oscars

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

INTERVIEW

The mother says she loves being able to give her girls “a taste of the world”

It’s for all mothers and all children, not just adoptive; it’s for all mothers who feel unconditional love for their children

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

45

INTERVIEW

eight-year-old away from all that! It hasn’t been about me for a long time. I can’t pick up and take a job because it appeals to me, because it’s what I want to do…”

Still, having taken the opportunity while filming Lion to introduce her daughters to the wonders of Hobart, the capital of Australia’s island state of Tasmania, she says hearing them say it was their favourite place in the world “was just gorgeous”.

“To be exposed to so many different cultures is a great part of my job,” she adds.

“I get to give them a taste of the world. That’s broadening them. I love seeing the world through their eyes, and the balance that they provide and the joy that they bring. They are very pure, they are very emotional and they are very immediate – and they won’t allow anything other than the moment to exist.”

While at first glance one might put her turn as the villainous taxidermist in the 2014 live action Paddington down to doing a film ‘for the kids’, she says it wasn’t quite like that.

“Yes, I said, ‘I’ll do this for my children,’ and then they were like, ‘Oh my gosh, are you playing the bear’s mummy?’ I had to tell them, ‘No, I’m not.’ Then I realised they can’t go to see this film! I’m the taxidermist who wants to hunt the bear. And although the bear is adorable, I’m not. I’m awful in it!”

But, that’s just Mummy pretending.

Kidman’s most important role remains as a mother, and it’s clear that having raised her adoptive children years ago, her maternal instincts never went away. Although the children she’s had with her husband – country musician Keith Urban – are biologically hers, there’s no difference in how she treats them or the approaches she takes to raising them. Having described herself as a ‘helicopter parent’ but one With Lion co-star Dev Patel

who tries not to hover around them too much, she admits that sometimes her approach does cross over the thin line of supervision for safety’s sake. Yet in a world where many parents fall short of their responsibilities, it’s obvious that Kidman is driven purely by love.

“You fall into a simple state of mind that is about protecting those closest to you,” she says. “It’s not complex or forced, it’s just there and you would never not want it to be.

“I think when you first become a parent you love the thrill and responsibility of that too – the love is one thing but the intensity of being there for other people is profound. I feel very lucky.”

Although she and Urban went through numerous setbacks before she finally fell pregnant at the age of 41, now approaching her half century, Kidman is keen to try for at least one more baby. She admits to having always wanted children even from a young age, and with her grandmother giving birth to Kidman’s mother at 49, she doesn’t see 46

any reason why she shouldn’t try at this stage in her life too.

“Like most things in life, if it feels right, Nicole is also mother you should do it,” to adoptive children she says.

Isabella and Connor Meanwhile, the pressures of being in demand as an actress – Kidman has just taken on two big television roles – and a fondness for the theatre, perhaps threaten to get in the way of the family life she’s committed to.

“I did DNA discovery drama Photograph 51 in the West End and it was such a profound, spontaneous, incredible experience,” she says.

“I want to do more and more theatre now, and I wanted to do Photograph 51 on Broadway.

That was the plan, but then I put the plan to my girls and they said, ‘nope’!”

She laughs, then ponders for a moment.

“They know what they want. When I did it last year, it was hard. I wasn’t there for bedtimes and I wasn’t there for dinner. It takes up so much of your life, and this is where a balance between work and family is impossible – you have to make a choice and it will always be them. They come first.” L LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PHOTOGRAPHY: PA IMAGES/IAN WEST, REX FEATURES, GETTY IMAGES/DON ARNOLD/BAUER-GRIFFIN

The actress admits her daughters will always come before her work

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Shot on location in Zanzibar

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Multi award-winning Micro Scooter’s new 3-in-1 Mini Micro Deluxe adapts in three stages, and will see your child

Get the youngest member of the family scooting with the 3-in-1 Mini Micro Deluxe Scooter through from their first steps to their first day at school. The 3-in-1 Mini Micro Deluxe is a must-have for parents who want an easy and convenient way to get around with a toddler in tow. Available in eight fantastic colours, it retails at £99.95. L Find out more at littledish.co.uk/ poppops and micro-scooters.co.uk

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LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

RUNNING HEAD Zara is the high street go-to for stylish, pursefriendly basics

COTTON T-SHIRT £5.99 HM.COM

INSIDER TIPS • You can’t beat Zara and H&M for cheap and cheerful basics.

When they no longer fit, recycle them at H&M, where the store will reward you with a voucher.

• Shop for good-quality coats and knitwear during sale seasons – Uniqlo and Cos both offer great cashmere pieces for kids. Alternatively, find designer labels at TK Maxx.

Savvy shop report RETAIL EXPERT EMILY STOTT ON HOW SHOPPING WITH KIDS HAS EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS

I

f you’ve ever packed clothing away until it’s the right size for your child only to forget all about them and miss the slim window of of beautiful childrenswear sites, opportunity, you’re not alone. It’s a precious such as Orfeodesign.com which time when your children are pocket sized and stocks French labels you won’t oblivious to sartorial decisions, but savour see on the high street. it, because all too soon only garments featuring dinosaurs or Star Wars will suffice. Where once you could rely • If you just can’t get on a trip to Mothercare for cotton them out of their wellies, multipacks, now you’re searching check out Canadian high and low for silver Velcrobrand Stonz. The boots RUBBER WELLIES fastened trainers without have cosy (and, more £28 STONZWEAR.CO.UK black rubber soles like David importantly, washable) Beckham’s. Sometimes fleece linings to keep choice is a hindrance, them snug. especially when the kids are only too aware of it.

As the happy-go-lucky store credit years • House of Fraser, John Lewis and inevitably gave way to recession, and budget Debenhams all offer personal children’s stockists such as Adams and shopping appointments. While at Woolworths disappeared, the high end designer Shortstitch.com, create an online stores seemed to thrive. Harrods sold Christian profile and a specially curated Dior baby bottles, while Liberty introduced its wardrobe – everything from hair childrenswear department selling miniature clips to shoes – will be delivered Paul Smith and Stella McCartney designs. straight to your door.

• Explore Instagram for a wealth

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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As long as there was a Kardashian or a Beckham tweeting pictures of their baby in designer togs, the clothes sold themselves.

CASHMERE SWEATER £49 COSSTORES.COM Childrenswear has never been as varied and accessible as it is now.

Thanks to the internet, we no longer have to drag unwilling kids around shopping centres and goods delivered at a moment’s notice can be sent straight back when the cries of, ‘I don’t like it, it’s itchy!’ ensue. This year, stores are upping their game to compete with their web rivals and the in-store experience is not only concerned with keeping customers of all ages happy, it needs to entice them to spend as much as possible. And make sure they return. Complimentary refreshments, freebies and children’s personal shoppers are all commonplace. After all, today’s disinterested toddlers are tomorrow’s self-conscious teens boosting their sales. L

Emily Stott is the author of Shopped: A True Story of Secret Shopping and SelfDiscovery (£8.99, September Publishing)

DEVELOPMENT

WHEEL your

WAY

CYCLING EXPERT ROB KEMP SAYS THE SOONER YOU CAN GET YOUR KIDS ON TWO WHEELS, THE BETTER

F

“

or many parents the first experiences of cycling with their children comes when they fix a child seat to their own bike and take to the local roads,” says Andy Cremin, project manager of cycling charity Sustrans.org. Of the estimated 610,000 cycle journeys made each day in London, a rising number of them feature babies and toddlers being ferried along our busy roads in child seats, trailers or purposebuilt ‘family’ bikes.

One such parent is John Amir, 50, from Herne Hill. “I first took our eldest boy Eddy on the bike seat when he was eight months old. I take his little brother, Kit, who’s 19 months now, in the same seat.” Since becoming a father John has also opened his own bike shop, BonVelo (bonvelo.co.uk). “My partner Karina and I are both keen cyclists so it came naturally to take the boys with us on the bikes as soon as we could. We use a rearfit seat – it’s the most comfortable and will

take a child up to 22kg, so around five years old if you need to.”

While it’s possible to use both front and rear seats on the same bike, it can make things very cumbersome. A more popular solution for carrying two or more children is a trailer or a specially designed cargo bike.

“I use a four-seater cargo bike,” explains Maria Ona, a childminder from Isleworth. “I take children aged 10 months to four years old – including my own – and have used it since doing a trial run with one on Wandsworth Common. I chose this bike because it not only caters for four children, there’s room for school bags, too.

“I’ve always enjoyed keeping fit but being a mum to three children and working up to 60 hours each week as a childminder, it is hard to find time to exercise,” adds Maria. “I can end up cycling 25 miles in a day so this way I benefit fitness wise, plus I reckon I save over £1,000 in petrol annually.”

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TEACH A TODDLER TO RIDE A BIKE Andy Cremin from cycle charity Sustrans.org on how to adapt a pedal bike for first-time riders • Lowering the seat and removing the pedals enables your child to scoot along on the bike with both feet. When they’re ready, encourage them forwards for about 10 metres using giant steps.

• Later, encourage them forwards for 10 metres more using kangaroo hops (both feet pushing together).

• Put one pedal back on – either left or right. Make sure they’re comfortable on the bike and feel secure. An easy way of doing this is to get them to do a little ‘wiggle’ with the brakes on.

• Do a one-pedal scoot: with one foot on the pedal encourage them to scoot forwards using the other foot. Make sure they’re looking up.

Stop after about 10 metres.

• Put the other pedal on. Do the ‘wiggle’ (with brakes on) to show that the bike is stable and safe.

Hold your child, not the bike, explain that you’re going to hold their back and get them to put their feet on the pedals.

• Second go; do the ‘wiggle’ holding them as before and get them to put both feet on the pedals.

Encourage them to look up. If all clear, count down from three and encourage them to let go of the brakes and pedal forwards.

• Encourage them to look up, let go of their brakes and pedal. Walk forwards (still holding them) and slowly release your grip. Stop after a few metres.

• Let go after a few steps, then step back to exaggerate the distance they have travelled. Shout ‘stop’ after five to 10 metres. Now count out the paces so they can see how far they have travelled.

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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DEVELOPMENT

SEATING ARRANGEMENTS A balance bike has no chain or pedals – helping little ones to train their sense of equilibrium

BABBOE BIG CARGO BIKE

The three-wheeled Babboe Big has a cart large enough for two to four little tikes. £1,439, babboe.co.uk

BRITAX RÖMER JOCKEY COMFORT

This easy-to-operate seat will see you through from baby to five years old. £129.99, mothercare.com

DAWES CYCLES DUET TWIN London dad John rides with 19-month-old son, Kit

All sizes of this tandem are fitted with a rear rack to enable you to carry luggage. £899.99, dawescycles.com

TEACHING KIDS TO RIDE

PUKY LRM LEARNER BALANCE BIKE

“We see the parents as the gatekeepers to children cycling confidently,” says Andy. “If you take your children to cycle locally or at any of the great places to ride around London, such as Victoria Park, Hyde Park, Richmond Park, along the canal network or the Olympic Velo Park with its mountain bike, BMX and road circuits, you can give them a great grounding in cycling with confidence.” L Rob Kemp writes for Cycling Plus magazine. He’s also the author of The Expectant Dad’s Survival Guide (£12.99, Vermilion)

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Balance bikes make kids feel safer because their feet are on the floor. £59.99, oldfashionedtoyshop.co.uk

ISLA BIKE BEINN 26

This ultra-lightweight performance bike is designed for growing bodies. £419.99, islabikes.co.uk

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Some parents look to familiarise their toddlers with cycling and using pedals with ride-on toys or push-along tricycles. “But from around the age of three it’s good to try your child out on a balance bike,” says Andy.

These simple bikes have no pedals or chain.

“Take your child to the park with a balance bike – they’re great for mastering control and learning to ride properly.” Once they’ve got the hang of that, they can progress to a pedal bike fairly easily. “There’s a move towards these bikes and away from using stabilisers these days as children can rely on them too much,” adds Andy.

Sustrans helps run BikeIt Plus cycle sessions at schools across London. “Once your child is at school they can have BikeIt Plus sessions, funded by TFL. For older children, schools can also get free Bikeability courses that teach them to ride safely on the roads – these are also run during school holidays on quiet local roads.

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LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

REVIEW

TH E ROAD TE S T

KATE FREUD PUTS THE YIPPIE YO CROSSBUGGY THROUGH ITS PACES WITH THE HELP OF JAGO AND GEORGIA

& DRIVABILITY

THE LOWDOWN

PRACTICALITY

In the 1960s, a German father called Heinz Hofelmann wanted to take his two young children into the countryside but couldn’t find an adequate way of transporting them. He developed a new vehicle which was part handdrawn cart, part pushchair. In 2014, Yippee Yo remodelled it to create the Crossbuggy, which launched last year.

Though I was initially concerned that pulling rather than pushing the buggy would be a problem, it was surprisingly easy to master.

The design has two sturdy wheels attached to a lightweight aluminium frame and a long metal arm complete with handbreak, which makes it feel very safe. It’s so lightweight that even walking up and down the hilly streets of Nappy Valley doesn’t prove a problem. And it’s quite easy to manoeuvre, though there have been a few tight squeezes coming in and out of shops. It’s on Clapham Common that it really comes into its own. We’re up and down hills, into the woodlands and out the other side with minimal effort. It has a shelf at the back, where you can store scooters, and it comes with a bag you can attach to the buggy.

When it comes to fitting it into the boot of a car though, it’s a squeeze, as the pull bar doesn’t retract.

GOOD LOOKING?

It certainly causes a stir! When we walk down Battersea’s Northcote Road I have never seen so many people turn to look, so if it’s the wow factor you’re after, you’ll find it here in spades.

Our Crossbuggy came in a striking red and white colourway, but there is a good selection of other colours to mix and match.

COMFORT

Despite the fact that at five, Jago is way beyond buggy age, he and Georgia, two, both 65

Taking the kids out for a spin on Northcote Road

fit comfortably in the Crossbuggy. There isn’t a huge amount of leg room but they seem to enjoy spending time in it so much the biggest problem we have is getting them out to walk!

THE VERDICT

This is a fantastic buggy for those with a love of adventure. It’s exciting to use, and the kids love it. That said, it doesn’t have a rain cover – essential in London – and it’s big to store in the house because it doesn’t collapse completely. I like to think of this as our bonus buggy – fun for the weekends, but I wouldn’t swap it for my Bugaboo just yet. L £495, yippieyo.com

BLOGGERS

READ ALL

ABOUT IT...

THE INTERNET IS AWASH WITH PARENTING BLOGS, BUT WHERE DO YOU, THE READER, START LOOKING? GEORGINA BLASKEY MEETS THE MOTHERS BEHIND THE BEST

BLOGGERS

THE EVB EDIT, AKA EIMEAR VARIAN BARRY “I set up on Instagram three years ago when I was pregnant. I did photography when I studied film-making and always had a camera glued to me. Combine that with my styling experience and I guess you have a ‘blogger’.

“I work every single night without fail.

When you work for yourself and when you love what you do, you literally live and breathe it. The best thing is that I finally get to call it a job. People don’t realise that you have to start from nothing and, like any business, be patient. I created content and collaborated with brands for three years before I saw any money come into my account. ”

MOTHER PUKKA, AKA ANNA WHITEHOUSE “I started blogging in early 2015 after having a bit of a parental meltdown. I wasn’t seeing my kid because I was working full time and was pretty much on the edge. Mother Pukka started as somewhere to laugh a bit; to offer light relief from the parental storm. It’s for someone feeding at 3am, wondering what’s happened to their mind/body/soul.

“I blog everywhere and anywhere (playground, tinned goods aisle of Tesco) but the majority is when Mae is asleep. I feel a strong sense of, ‘it doesn’t matter how you parent as long as you feel supported’ – I now feel supported and that’s been the best bit.”

CHALK KIDS, AKA STEPHANIE WITHERS “I started Chalk Kids in 2014 with the idea of creating a blog for modern and style-conscious families. We write about everything from kidswear to interiors, family recipes to travel.

I tend to work early in the mornings, and some evenings. Luckily, when you enjoy it you don’t mind squeezing it into awkward hours.

I also find having a planner and scheduling content in advance makes all the difference.

“The best thing about blogging is the sense of community – 100%! It’s really inspiring, and you get to speak with other like-minded parents who you might never have come across otherwise.”

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There’s style inspo for mum, baby and the home over on The EVB Edit

Chloe is mum to two girls and four-year-old Charlie

BLOGGERS

CHLOE LOVES TO SHOP, AKA CHLOÉ SAMWELL-SMITH

MY BABA, AKA LEONORA BAMFORD

“I’ve always loved fashion so I thought writing a blog would fulfil a passion while my three children were at school. My blog is aimed at mums who haven’t got time to trawl the shops, providing outfit inspiration with quick links for those who need it.

“I love hearing from mums who say I’ve inspired them to get their ‘mojo’ back after having children.

I have two pre-teen girls who love clothes as much as me, so they love what I do, although they say I spend too much time on my phone! Sometimes I have to remind myself of why I stopped work in the first place.”

“I started blogging almost six years ago as a hobby. Not many of my friends had babies so it was a way of recording the cool things I came across. It’s more of a parenting/ lifestyle website now, and we have lots of bloggers and experts contributing on all sorts of subjects.

“It’s a great outlet and I meet so many interesting people and brands on a daily basis.

I also think social media is a great way to reach out to different people.

“My family are all proud of what it’s become but my children do take the mickey out of my vlogging, ‘Hi, I’m Leo Bamford from My Babaaaaaaaa!’.”

HURRAH FOR GIN, AKA KATIE KIRBY

LITTLE BUTTON DIARIES, AKA LAURA MINTER AND TIA WILLIAMS

PHOTOGRAPHY: GMC PUBLICATIONS/EMMA SEKHON, HELENE SANDBERG

“I started blogging just over three years ago – I was struggling to find work to fit around the kids, so it was something to do to keep my brain engaged. At the time I struggled to find blogs that talked about my own experience of having young children – namely that it could be bloody hard work! So I created Hurrah for Gin. It’s sarcastic, tongue-in-cheek, always honest and often fuelled by gin, but it really is a full-time job.

“The best things about blogging are the wonderful friends I’ve made, that I got a book deal out of it – which was my dream – and I get sent free gin!”

“We started blogging about four years ago, when we were both on maternity leave. We’ve always loved doing crafty things together but when we had our girls everything got sidelined and we lost our mojo to make stuff.

A lot of the things we make are either for or with our kids, so there’s a focus on children’s craft, but we do make things for ourselves too!

“Our kids don’t really understand what we do yet, they just know they have to stand still by the white wall and smile while we take endless photos of them in whatever we’ve just made! We hope they look back and feel proud of all the things their mamas made for them.”

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An entrepreneurial mum-of-two’s ingenious shoe accessory has walked away with the backing of Kelly Hoppen MBE and Deborah Meaden following a successful pitch on Dragons’ Den. Ally Stevenson, from Hampshire, created heelstoppers to prevent women from sinking into soft ground when they walk in heels outdoors, and also to protect the heels themselves from damage and dirt. These are used also to protect wooden floors, such as events at The National Trust where heels are banned without Clean Heels. Ally

came up with the idea for Clean Heels when she was a guest at an outdoor wedding reception. She popped beer bottle tops under her high heels to help her stand on the grass during a speech and decided there and then to come up with a more permanent solution.

After testing out numerous styles and materials, Ally settled on a neat design using British made materials and made in the UK. Clean Heels are soft, yet flexible, so they provide enough support and are also easy to attach and remove!

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PARTIES

2

1

3

Carrot & Walnut cupcakes Makes: 24 cupcakes

INGREDIENTS • 270ml sunflower oil • 360g light brown sugar • 4 medium eggs, 2 separated • 2 large carrots, grated • 150g pineapple, finely chopped • 140g walnuts, chopped and toasted • 290g plain flour • ½ tsp baking powder • ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1½ tsp ground cinnamon • pinch of salt • lemon syrup (60ml lemon juice and 60g caster sugar boiled and cooled) Preheat the oven to 175°C and line your muffin trays with cases.

Beat the oil and sugar until well mixed and slightly aerated. In a separate bowl, whisk the 2 whole eggs and 2 egg yolks, then add this gradually to the oil and sugar, beating on high speed.

Fold the carrots, pineapple and nuts into the mixture using a metal spoon.

Sift together the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and cinnamon, and fold this into the batter.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg white with the salt until soft peaks form. Mix a third of the egg white into the batter until well combined and then gently fold in the remaining egg white. Using a piping bag or tablespoon, fill the cases until two-thirds full.

Bake for 20-22 minutes. The cupcakes are cooked when the tops are golden brown and spring back to the touch.

If in doubt, insert a knife into the centre of each; it should come out clean.

Brush the tops with the lemon syrup while still warm. Remove from the trays and leave to cool on a wire rack.

Decorate with lemon cream cheese frosting and top with sugarcraft carrots.

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5

6

Dress the par t…

1. RACHEL RILEY COTTON DRESS £75 RACHELRILEY.CO.UK 2. A MINI PENNY NECKLACE £25 AWEATHEREDPENNY.CO.UK 3. COTTON FLEECE TROUSERS £62 STELLAMCCARTNEY.COM 4. OEUF NYC COTTON HOODED SWEATER £64 SCANDIMINI.CO.UK 5. THE BONNIE MOB COTTON T-SHIRT £25 ALEXANDALEXA.COM 6. MINNA PARIKKA LEATHER TRAINERS £180 SELFRIDGES.COM

BESPOKE CRACKERS (SET OF FOUR) £32 HEDGEHOGSHOP.CO.UK

PAPER FAN £1.59 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

PAPER POM-POM £1.99 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

Recipe from Cupcakes by Peggy Porschen (£6.99, Quadrille).

Photography: Georgia Glynn Smith POP-UP PET RABBIT £9 NOTHS.COM

PARTIES

PA R T Y T I M E W I T H

Get crafty

Little ones can get ready for an egg hunt by decorating their own basket.

Bamboo basket, £1.69 and ribbon, £1.49, partypieces.co.uk

Carole Middleton

EASTER

TASTY TREATS

Spring has sprung! Get into the spirit by throwing your little bunnies an Easter celebration to remember WHITE CHOCOLATE LAMB This decorated Belgian chocolate figure makes a sweet alternative to traditional Easter eggs. £4, johnlewis.com

CHOC ON CHOC EGG KIT Make your own chocolate Easter eggs during the holidays with this all-inclusive kit. £6.99, noths.com

WHETHER OUTDOORS OR INDOORS, CHOOSE BRIGHT AND BOLD SPRING hues to decorate your party space; paper pom-poms, fans, hanging paper maché eggs and bunting can all be used to add a burst of colour. Turn your table into an Easter garden, with shredded tissue paper ‘grass’ or a carpet of faux grass topped with fresh flowers in glass bottles and jam jars, and painted mason jars filled with mini chocolate eggs – these could even be gifted to your guests as favours to take home.

Easter is a time to indulge in the sweetest of treats, so why not set up a dessert table?

If you have access to one, an upcycled vintage-style side table works beautifully.

Decorated cupcakes (try our carrot cake recipe from Peggy Porschen, left), marzipan carrots, chocolate birds’ nests filled with mini chocolate eggs and homemade bunny - or

flower-shaped biscuits will enable little ones and adults alike to get their sugar fix.

A crafty corner is sure to keep the children occupied – leave tubs of ribbon, stickers, feathers, paper flowers, mini pom-poms, shredded paper, straws and glitter, along with glue and sticky tape, and get them to decorate their own Easter bonnet or basket – with a prize for the best one, of course!

If playing outdoors, hang egg-shaped piñatas from tree branches filled with sweets and confetti. Get the kids to don their bunny ears and take part in a hopping sack race or egg-and-spoon race, and, of course, you can’t host an Easter gathering without the traditional egg hunt. For older children, leave a trail of clues or eggs to follow around the house or garden. For toddlers, try coaxing them in the right direction with a trail of colourful balloons. L

PAPER PLATES (PACK OF 12) £4.49 PARTYPIECES.CO.UK

DIY PAPER CHICK DECORATIONS SET £6.50 CLARELOVES.CO.UK

BAMBOO PLATES (PACK OF EIGHT) £12.99 LITTLECHERRY.CO.UK

NOVELTY GLASSES £5 PAPERCHASE.CO.UK FAUX GRASS BUNNY £3 HOBBYCRAFT.CO.UK

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Celebrating 25 years

Wet

play?

throughout 2016-17

No With 3 sports

Bright children, exceptional opportunities: visitors to Newton

problem. indoor halls to add to our 70m x 40m huge all-weather pitch

Prep in the last year have included the Dalai

Lama, Rowan Williams, Michael Gove MP, Shami Chakrabarti, Johnny Ball.

World Cup Rugby player Josh Lewsey and film director Alan Parker.

we have more sports facilities than most secondary-level London schools.

During 2016-17, we celebrate

Newton@25,

marking the first 25 years since its 1991 foundation. So far we have raised £25k, giving 25% each to our four chosen charities—and we stage an event on the 25th of each termtime month.

Thinking big: with

“Newton combines knowledge of families with great space and facilities in which children are encouraged to be themselves. All the teachers understand my children, the management is open to fresh ideas and the school is big enough to accommodate variety.”

650+ pupils, aged between 313, Newton is London’s biggest stand-alone prep school.

Current parent Several 100% Bursaries are

If music be the food of love, we are eating well

available from Year 3 upwards for sparky children who

at Newton: over

300 children learn a musical instrument

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might not otherwise be able to afford a fee-paying school.

Bright children Exceptional opportunities

A co-ed London prep school for children aged 3-13 020 7720 4091 www.newtonprepschool.co.uk

RUNNING HEAD Make like mum-to-be Rosie Huntington-Whiteley with multiple piercings

EAR CANDY

Beyoncé rocks the look

Everywhere from the school gates to the red carpet, the trend for multiple ear piercings has made a comeback. And if it’s good enough for our fellow respectable mothers Gwyneth Paltrow, Beyoncé and Julianne Moore – all of whom sport ears delicately peppered with diamond hardware – it’s good enough for me, so I find myself en route to Liberty London, home to piercing queen Maria Tash.

Unlike the first time I had my ears pierced as a 14 year old, which ended up being a brief and forgettable experience, this time it’s a rather more leisurely and refined affair.

Maria’s studio is swish and beautifully clean.

She has garnered a reputation over the past 20 years not only for somehow making ear piercing relatively painless but also for her ‘ear styling’ techniques. If you choose to be adventurous, she can tell you exactly where and what you should have pierced in your ear based solely on your unique ear shape.

I’m not quite brave enough for all that, yet, but spend some time trying a dummy ring in different positions to see what I like, and end up opting for a third hole in each lobe. Best of all, here you can have your ears pierced with the earrings you actually want to wear rather than standard stainless steel studs.

It’s piercing gone posh! Piercings from

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, INSTAGRAM.COM/MARIA_TASH, MATT BARON/BEI/REX/SHUTTERSTOCK, INSTAGRAM.COM/BEYONCE

£15; earrings from £41. 0207 573 9650, mariatashbookings@liberty.co.uk

Gwyneth Paltrow plays it by ear, courtesy of Maria Tash

SPRING’S BEST BEAUTY BUYS

KATE FREUD ROUNDS UP THE SEASON’S HERO PRODUCTS AND MOST COVETED TRENDS QUENCH YOUR SKIN

Clarins’ new Hydra-Essentiel range is designed to give winter-worn skin a boost with its rich moisturising properties. The exotic blend of active ingredients are designed to fortify and soothe as well as reinforce the skin’s barrier. From £36, feelunique.com

PUCKER UP The range is a must-have for time-poor mums needing a uick skin fi

BLOOMIN’ LOVELY Inspired by the spirited artists of the Bloomsbury Set and their legendary country house in Sussex, Jo Malone’s latest perfume collection has something for every occasion. Pick from the heady scents of Tobacco & Mandarin and Leather & Artemesia, to the lighter Blue Hyacinth. £45 (30ml), jomalone.co.uk

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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RUNNING HEAD

Mindfulness for parents FINDING YOUR WAY TO A CALMER, HAPPIER FAMILY AND SELF COULD BE EASIER THAN YOU MIGHT THINK – NO SILENCE OR CHANTING REQUIRED, SAYS AUTHOR AMBER HATCH

Nature provides a rich environment without being over-stimulating – freeing us from screens and advertising

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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RUNNING HEAD

HOW TO BE A MINDFUL PARENT • Attach mindfulness to an activity: Ideally, we would be trying to be mindful all the time, but sometimes it’s worth earmarking a certain activity for special mindful attention. It doesn’t matter what you choose – it could be hanging out the washing or walking up the stairs or reading to your child. Keep this as a regular mindfulness activity, so that you practise every single time you do it. You get many of the benefits of formal sitting (though perhaps not with the same depth of relaxation), yet you can do it while carrying on with your daily business.

WHAT IS MINDFULNESS?

When we are mindful, we experience life as it is actually happening. We can watch where our thoughts are going, rather than be swept along with them. We are also more aware of our feelings, whether they are joy, sadness, contentedness or anger. And when we are being mindful, it is easier to choose whether or not to act on those feelings.

HOW CAN IT HELP US PARENT?

Parents often need to learn new techniques to rise to new challenges of family life, and this is especially true in the first few years. Among other things, mindfulness can help us to stay calm in a crisis; feel more connected to our children; be patient; throw ourselves into an activity; not say something we might regret and keep a sense of perspective.

Being around children is like living with the volume turned up. Everything is more extreme and children can court the full range of human emotions each and every day. Parents may be vomited on, screamed at, poked in the eye, woken up several times in the night; they will have to tear apart children who are trying to bite each other; they will hear ‘I want that lolly’ 27 times; they will be humiliated in the supermarket; they will hear ‘I hate you’ and ‘I love you’ in the same minute; they will, at times, need to do everything one-handed; they will need to read the same story six times in a row; they will have to rescue a child who is gagging; comfort

one who is crying, soothe one who is terrified of the dark; they will have to navigate through perpetual noise and chaos and mess, perhaps all in the course of a single day. Mindfulness can help parents to cope with all of that.

MINDFULNESS IN CHILDREN

Young children live very much in the present moment. When engaged in an activity they are absorbed by it, presumably not distracted by thoughts about the past or future, or by a running commentary. They often approach the world with a freshness, examining objects around them – a spoon, an insect, a crack in the pavement – with curiosity and wonder.

As children grow, their language increases and they begin to conceptualise much more.

Instead of seeing the world as disjointed incidences to be wondered at, they start to make connections, creating a bigger picture, which gets more complex each day. That characteristic fresh-eyed wonder begins to be replaced with notions of familiarity and categorisation. They begin to be more absorbed by their inner worlds of fantasy and imagination. Thoughts come hand in hand with language, and their minds – which no longer need to make sense of their immediate surroundings – are more occupied with the past and the future.

As their brains develop and move toward a more adult mind, their ability to raise mindfulness grows, and also their need for it. L 76

• Make time for play: Earmarking special times for being together is a wonderful way to protect those times for reconnection. It may be that we need to actually schedule in certain times in the day – perhaps at bathtime. Alternatively, look out for opportunities to seize as and when they come along.

• Keep shopping fun: If you have to go to the shops together, reduce the sensory overload by slowing down the task, perhaps by taking time to mindfully explore the aisles – noting all the different smells and colours.

• Work out strategies in advance: When we are confronted with a new or tricky situation, the need to act quickly may make it hard to choose the best course of action in that moment. Later, however, see the incident as a learning opportunity.

Rather than getting caught up in regret, this is a chance to handle the situation differently next time.

• Find ways to empower your child: Look out for campaigns you think would interest them and help them to come up with ways to support that cause. Children can raise money through bake sales or sponsorship, or they could write a letter to a politician. Mindfulness for Parents by Amber Hatch (£9.99, Watkins) is out now.

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Creative play can be a fantastic way to deepen a mindful connection with your child and see the world from their point of view

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FAMILY

Jamie is dad to Edie, four, and one-year-old Arlo

SPRING BREAK

Seriously on the verge of cabin fever, dad blogger and father of two JAMIE DAY welcomes his favourite season with open arms PHEW… WE MADE IT. WINTER IS WELL AND TRULY FORGOTTEN, AND FORGOTTEN IT shall remain – at least until August, when the shops start playing Slade on repeat all over again.

With the arrival of spring, I have a whole new appetite for making the most of these magnificent days ahead with the kids. In fact, after months of spending evenings and weekends cooped up indoors where I’ve mastered the ponytail (yet to conquer plaits), had my nails painted every toxic shade of pink imaginable and pirouetted around the living room as Berkshire’s prima ballerina with my fouryear-old daughter Edie, the change in weather and longer days couldn’t be more welcome.

The change seems to bring about a reawakening in the kids, too. Edie and her brother Arlo, who’s one, both love to be outside, and finally, without countless pseudo swamps to navigate everywhere we go, they can enjoy the outdoors with a new-found freedom. Instead of getting their natural world fix from books and Andy’s Wild Adventures, they can be outside, smelling and touching* everything they see.

And right now, the possibilities seem endless.

Simple pleasures such as eating dinner in the garden

make a noticeable difference to all of our moods.

The children get excited by creepy crawlies on the table, or look on in amazement as flocks of geese pass loudly over our village. The swings in the park no longer have to be a weekend treat, and finally the amount of TV that’s watched in our household is dramatically reduced (I swear Edie has shares in our electricity supplier or something).

Upon arriving home from school now, we take impromptu trips to feed our local Shetland ponies, climb fallen trees on extra-long dog walks, or set up obstacle courses in the back garden – all good fun until Arlo gets his fingers nibbled by a peckish pony, Edie falls from a flimsy branch or they career into each other during the garden Olympics. Cue deafening screams heard for miles.

As parents, we want our kids to be inspired by the world around them, and spring allows us to do just that. And with the increased warmth of summer to come, it can only get better. For me, this is the most exciting time of the year, peckish ponies ’n all. L

@adayinthelifedad * Within reason, of course. Probably best to avoid the

ammonia-stained tree trunks.

THIS MONTH WE’VE BEEN… READING Tracey Corderoy’s Shifty McGifty & Slippery Sam books with Edie; VISITING Legoland Windsor for after-school fun (and managing to swerve the queues in the process); WEARING SCAMP & DUDE T-SHIRT £26 LIBERTYLONDON.COM

Scamp & Dude’s cool printed tees.

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Switch it up • Time to pack the winter boots away and put those new canvas pumps through their paces. Our favourites are Superga – which can also be bunged in the washing machine.

CANVAS TRAINERS £32 SUPERGA.CO.UK

• Instead of heading home, take in a local attraction on your way back from school. Try Kew Gardens or the London Wetland Centre.

• Weather permitting, of course, swap your Sunday roast in the pub for a picnic in the park (but – ahem – take a chilled bottle of Prosecco to make up for missing out on the pub).

knit-planet.com new collection ‘breeze & blossom’ out in April

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA Bocketts Farm Park 1st - 18th April 2017

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01/06/2016 13:17

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DOUBLE DUTY Children grow up so fast that the clever folk behind Danish brand Leander have created a cot that not only evolves into a toddler bed but later the perfect sofa for your teenager. Mix and match the colour scheme to suit your child’s bedroom, with a variety of shades for sheets, linen bumper and canopy. £560, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

interior This cotton cushion will add some serious attitude to a child’s bedroom

NEWS

Stylish updates and inspiring finds to make your house a home LABEL LUXE Swedish label Elodie Details is a veritable treasure trove of goodies, designed to make everyday objects for life with a baby into something beautiful. And it’s done just that, with everything from dummies and bibs to Store My Stuff cotton baskets.

From £7.90, uk.elodiedetails.com

WORD UP

COMPILED BY: KATE FREUD

GRAPHIC DESIGN

What better way to teach your toddler the letters of the alphabet than with these colourful wall stickers from The Jam Tart? The brand also makes cards, name prints and colouring books so you can add a little rainbow cheer to any room. £35, thejamtart.co.uk

If you’re decorating a pre-teen’s bedroom and don’t want to break the bank, Made.com has a brilliant selection of ideas. We love the wacky Manhattan guitar cushion, as well as the Philip Colbert cactus rug and bedding. From 19, made.com

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CREATIVITY

get CRAFTY

LEONORA BAMFORD AND NANNY ANITA SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE SPRING ACTIVITIES TO DO THIS EASTER

S

pring is easily one of my favourite times of the year, and I love teaching the children about the start of new life. We enjoy planting bulbs and watching new shoots grow in the garden, and we spend whole days outside. We’re lucky to have a lambing shed behind our house and my children love helping to deliver these little bundles of joy. My daughter in particular loves bottle-feeding the orphaned lambs.

It really is a magical experience.

Spring has also brought with it the birth of my beautiful little boy, with whom we’re all completely smitten. To keep the other two entertained, Anita and I have been dreaming up lots of little crafts, and for our family outing, we’re going to be joining the Moomins on their botanical adventure at Kew Gardens.

I’m a complete sucker for an Easter treat, too, so we’ll be trying our hand at these simple but delicious biscuits (right).

There are so many wonderful cooking classes for the whole family at Daylesford Cookery School, I’ll definitely be signing up to brush up on my cooking and baking skills for the rest of the year. L dd a s ring ourish to her outfit with a bright au ower hair garland

ROCKAHULA HAIR GARLAND £12 JOHNLEWIS.COM

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CREATIVITY

These biscuits will be crispy on the edge and slightly squidgy in the centre

THE ROBOT ZOO DAYLESFORD’S CLASSIC BUTTER & VANILLA BISCUITS You will need: • 140g salted butter, cold and chopped into small cubes • 280g plain flour • 140g soft brown sugar • 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste • 1 egg Method • Rub the butter and flour together between your fingertips until you have a bowl of something resembling fine breadcrumbs.

• Add in the sugar and vanilla, and mix with a wooden spoon until it is just combined.

• Pop in the egg and mix with a spoon until a dough forms – it will be a fairly firm dough which is slightly sticky to the touch.

• Squeeze the roll into a sausage shape and sandwich it between two sheets of cling film. Roll it with a rolling pin until it is about 2cm thick and chill for 30 minutes. On a lightly floured surface, roll your dough out to 1.5cm thick and using a biscuit cutter of your choice, cut out as many shapes as you can.

• Transfer the shapes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment and chill again for 20 minutes. In the meantime, switch your oven on and allow it to pre-heat to 170°C. • Pop your cold baking tray directly into the hot oven for 7-10 minutes.

Bake until the biscuits start to turn golden brown at the edges. Allow to cool before decorating.

COTTON FLEECE SWEATER £36 JJPARK.COM

You will need: • eggs (hard boiled and left to cool) • acrylic paint • paintbrush • black marker PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

SOCK BUNNY You will need: • sock • dried rice • string • pens

PAINTED CHICK EGGS

Method • Paint the bottom half of the egg in white and let it dry.

• Paint the top half yellow, allow to dry.

• Using a black marker, draw a face for the chick on the yellow part.

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This spring, the children and I will be heading to the Horniman Museum & Gardens in Forest Hill to see the new Robot Zoo. This fascinating exhibition features larger-than-life animals recreated using various machine parts – so you can see just how their real-life counterparts eat, hunt and hide. The kids can also get involved in the interactive exhibits, which includes shooting a chamelon’s ‘tongue gun’! Until Sunday 29 October, horniman.ac.uk

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Method • Fill a sock with rice up to the heel.

You will need to tap it down to get as much rice in as possible.

• Wrap the string around the sock where the rice ends.

• To make the head, wrap some string around the sock two thirds below where the first piece is.

• For the ears, cut the sock that’s left into bunny ear shapes and colour one side pink. Attach with a few stitches at the top of the head.

• Use pens to draw the face on your bunny.

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POPPIN’ POWER Little Dish has added Pop Pops to its snack range – ‘air popped’ crisps made with 40% chickpeas.

Much lower in salt than standard crisps, each pack of the glutenfree snack also features a resealable sticker for eating on the go. Perfect on their own – and even better with a dip – flavours include original, cheese, sweet red pepper and tomato. 75p, sainsburys.co.uk

HEALTHY H2O

food

NEWS

Satiate thirsty children on the run with Pip Organic’s new Fruity Waters. Made with spring water and lashings of organic fruit, there’s no added sugar or sweeteners, and each carton is one of your five a day. Flavours include mango, orange and apple, and blackcurrant, raspberry and apple. £1.29, abelandcole.co.uk/groceries

The latest and greatest foodie finds for your mini diners The ing new a ours include trawberr le ango le and lackcurrant le

BIG BITES Dine with dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum’s new T.rex Grill. The restaurant uses only sustainably sourced produce on its menu, which includes stonebaked pizzas.

The animatronic velociraptors are sure to be a hit, and kids can test their knowledge with games and activities. Open daily, 11am to 4pm, nhm.ac.uk

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PACK A PUNCH Our favourite fruit Yoyos from Bear have been given a zesty twist. Now with a drop of lemon, the Super Sour Yoyos come in three flavours. Each contains only the same amount of natural sugar as an apple, and is one of your five a day. 49p, tesco.com

FOOD

HOW TO FOOL A

FUSSY EATER BECKY DICKINSON REVEALS THE SMARTEST WAYS TO GET YOUR LITTLE ONES TO EAT THEIR GREENS

I

t’s an age-old struggle and a familiar source of angst to anyone who has ever uttered the words ‘eat your veg, or there won’t be any pudding’. Getting children to eat healthy food, especially vegetables, can feel like a never-ending battle.

But according to registered dietician and spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association Lucy Jones, fussy eating is a normal stage of development. “It is thought to be an evolutionary safety precaution against eating poisonous berries, for example,” she says. “One study found that 50% of parents labelled their 19-24 month olds as ‘picky’.”

Fussy eating is by no means restricted to the toddler years, causing many parents to resort to measures such as ‘hidden vegetable’ sauces, or using dessert as a reward.

But while bribery and subterfuge may sometimes seem like the only options, there are other more palatable ways to help your child enjoy food. So here are some tried, tested and tasty ways to encourage them to eat something new.

Grow it

Helping children to grow their own food is a great way to get them to eat it. While living the good life may not always be feasible, especially in London, there is still plenty you can do: salad leaves on a windowsill, a small raised bed in the garden, a few pots on the patio. Pick-your-own farms are also a brilliant day out, and a perfect way to show children where their food comes from.

APPEAL TO THEIR EGO OR SENSE OF HUMOUR

Spinach if they want to be stronger, runner beans if they want to run faster (not strictly true, but neither is the Easter Bunny).

Beetroot if they want their wee to turn pink (just don’t be alarmed when this actually happens), and we all know what happens when you eat baked beans…

Moveable feast

Of course, children should ideally eat at the table. But when my son went through a phase of refusing to sit in his highchair, I found he’d happily eat his lunch if I took him out in the pushchair. I don’t know why this worked, but it did, and I got some exercise.

FUNNY FOOD

Children are delightfully and easily amused, and it’s the same when it comes to food.

Invest in some novelty-shaped cookie cutters such as animals, letters or hearts, and use them to cut out foods like sandwiches, omelettes and homemade pizza. Or try arranging vegetables into silly faces, writing your child’s name in blueberries or peas, making sculptures out of salad, filling an ice-cream cone with chopped fruit, or making a vegetable kebab.

PICNIC TIME

One of the unwritten rules of childhood is that food tastes way better when eaten on the floor rather than at the table. Try turning 86

lunchtime into a picnic, with a rug in the garden or park. If it’s raining, just spread out a blanket on the floor and invite a few teddy bears along to join the fun.

HUNGER GAMES

The hungrier children are, the more likely they are to eat something they’d normally refuse. The key is to help them work up an appetite while having fun: play football, take them to the park, go swimming, or go for a LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

FOOD

TOP TIPS FROM DIETICIAN LUCY JONES • If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. It could take 15-25 exposures before they are willing to try something, so don’t give up!

• No pressure. Don’t force your child to eat; studies show this makes it worse.

• No choccy rewards. Don’t reward eating with liked foods – use a trip to the park instead.

• Don’t restrict access to liked foods. It is only likely to reinforce their desirability.

• Be a role model. Don’t offer vegetables while you eat a takeaway.

• Make mealtimes happy and fun.

And avoid telling off if you can.

Encouraging children to grow or pick their own food is a great way to get them to eat it

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

scoot, then as soon as you get home present them with your most unapologetically healthy dish. It’s best to have something pre-prepared, so you can just heat it up in minutes to avoid a hunger meltdown.

Let them pick

The half an hour before supper is the time they’re most likely to come whining for biscuits. While you’re cooking, leave a bowl of healthy snacks such as chopped vegetables, LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

sliced avocado and baby tomatoes within reach, and let them clock up a couple of their five a day before they’ve even sat down.

REWARD CHART

Every time your little one tries a new food, write it down and give it a star rating. Older children can even do this themselves. Offer a small prize, such as stickers or a pencil, whenever they reach 10 new foods on the chart.

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DON’T STRESS

It’s easy to worry that your child isn’t getting enough of the good stuff. But Lucy Jones says, “most children grow, thrive and learn despite these spells. Showing stress has been shown to worsen and lengthen fussy eating phases.

Try to assess your child’s intake over a week or so, as they are likely to have good and bad days, which tend to even out. If fussy eating becomes extreme, have a chat to your GP about it.” L

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There is ultimate relaxation to be had at Sani Dunes pool

Time to unwind

Sani Resort, Halkidiki’s most stunning family destination, has seen many new additions to make 2017 your best holiday yet

HOUSING ONE OF THE MOST VITAL BIRD SANCTUARIES IN GREECE, SANI Resort’s wetlands, gently rolling pine forests and hills give way to five miles of white sandy beach and luscious gardens.

The resort boasts an exquisite array of fivestar hotels, and 2017 sees the launch of a few updates, including an impressive expansion at the stylish Sani Club. The club welcomes 25 contemporary one- and two-bedroom suites designed exclusively for families, some with a private pool. The Junior Suites have also been completely renovated, offering step-free access for ease and accessibility. Interiors have been redesigned and the bathrooms extended.

This year also sees the introduction of the new Pines restaurant overlooking the Sea You beach at Sani Marina, serving up only the best local produce on its menus.

And just in time for summer, the chic Sani Dunes will open at the end of June. This hotel is designed exclusively for adults and families with children over the age of 12, with sublime facilities, Michelin-starred cuisine and a serene and sophisticated ‘grown-up’ environment for families to enjoy.

Sani Resort is all about relaxation, so take it easy while your children are well-catered for in its Melissa crèches and mini clubs,

which are suitable for little ones as young as four months old. Offering baby and toddler rooms, separate sleeping spaces, fun themed play areas and a kitchen where kids can enjoy baking cakes and biscuits, this is a child’s paradise. Help is also at hand on the beach, with dedicated personnel who are there to look after young ones for up to 30 minutes free of charge, while you kick back and relax.

Also new for this year, enjoy swimming in warm 29°C waters, whatever the season, in the newly heated outdoor pools, and take advantage of the adult-only pool at Sani Club.

The range of activities available at Sani Resort is what brings families back year after year. The award-winning beaches promise safe, crystal-clear waters to explore, and the resort operates tennis, football, dance and sailing academies for active young guests.

You’ll find a mouth-watering selection of cuisine at the resort’s 23 restaurants, too.

With a diverse culinary range that includes Greek, Asian fusion, Italian and Japanese, every appetite will be catered for. New glutenfree dishes are also available. Now that’s food for thought… L 88

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS At Sani Beach and Sani Club, two children under 12 can stay free, while at Porto Sani, the first child is free. Plus, if you choose to stay in a three-bedroom suite at Porto Sani or Sani Asterias, enjoy up to four hours of complimentary babysitting per day. Local airport transfers are also complimentary for direct online bookings. Book now to receive up to 30% off at Porto Sani and Sani Asterias, and up to 20% off at Sani Beach, Sani Club and Sani Dunes. saniresort.com Enjoy stunning views at Sani Dunes beachfront suite

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SUN AND STYLE Santikos Collection, known for its hotels on the Greek isle of Skiathos, is opening a new site on neighbouring island Alonnisos. Marpunta Village Hotel opens this summer, boasting 15 family suites, three private beaches and a kids’ club. Junior suites from £140 per night, on an all-inclusive basis. Open 26 May, marpunta.com

t ravel

NEWS

Keeping big and little globetrotters on the map and in the know ANIMAL MAGIC Could there be a more perfect way to see in spring than with a trip to Tredethick Farm Cottages in Cornwall? Families can feed baby animals, enjoy pony rides and make the most of the indoor swimming pool and hot tub. And for the new season, there’ll be family foraging sessions across the farm’s 70 acres. Cottages

LIFE OUTDOORS

The book is filled with Camping with Kids gorgeous illustrations and

by Simon McGrath is ideas – including how to packed with more than make a moth catcher

400 ways to have fun as a family, from learning how to build a fire to camp-friendly recipes.

Your kids will be budding adventurers in no time.

from £1,300 per week for a family of four, tredethick.co.uk

THE GREAT ESCAPE Set in 400 acres, Beaverbrook in Surrey is the new country pad retreat for the whole family. While you’re relaxing with an Old Fashioned or putting balls on the golf course, you can leave the children in the capable hands of cult entertainers Sharky & George for games in the forest. There’s plenty of fun to be had together, too, with cooking lessons, pony rides and cycling trails. Prices from £640 for a family of four, beaverbrook.co.uk

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£14.99, AA Publishing

The family enjoyed picturesque vistas from the Old Man of Storr

POS TCAR D from

ISLE OF SKYE UP UNTIL NOW, MY SIX-YEAR-OLD LILLIA’S WALKING EXPERIENCE HAD been a daily seven-minute amble to school – my record was hardly much better. So when my partner, Ian, suggested a rambling holiday in Skye, I envisaged tantrums… mostly mine.

A few weeks on, and we’re crossing the bridge that links mainland Scotland to this Inner Hebrides island. Any uneasiness evaporates as I’m bewitched by the black Cuillin mountains rising from cornflower blue skies. As we drive to the tiny village of Elgol, we see the island’s giant mossy peaks sidle next to inky coloured lochs. Strangely, I’m having the urge to get out and walk.

From Elgol, we take a boat around Loch Coruisk. Soon, we are up close to doe-eyed seals and scudding dolphins. Docking at a secluded spot, Lillia is off, scrambling rocks and dodging bogs. Peaty bogs are aplenty in Skye; it’s what makes the whisky here taste so great. On the way back, Lillia takes the helm and steers us to shore with a huge grin.

On day two we head to the Quiraing – a megalith of a crag created from a landslip.

As we traverse gorges and waterfalls, the winds gather. The next 90 minutes are spent battling our way through blackening skies

chucking out sleet and hail. Face gnarled with discomfort, Lillia turns to me and says: “Why would you bring me somewhere like this?”

Wet to the knees, we comfort ourselves in one of the cutesy restaurants of main town Portree. Set inside an amphitheatre of cliffs and lapped by a nearby harbour, the food is a perfect antidote to our broken spirits.

The following day, with heavy legs yet spirits high, we head to Claugan Coral beach.

Created from fossilised and sun-bleached algae, it grows just 1mm a year and shimmers bone white. I watch scenes of happiness unfold as Lillia and Ian build great aquatic channels to the backdrop of turquoise seas.

This is where the sea meets the soul.

Our final day is like something from the clutches of a child’s imagination. The aptly named Fairy Glen is a magical landscape of hills cupped by teaming waterfalls. Dotted around are miniature labyrinths – surely put there by puckish nymphs. The fact it’s not signposted only adds to the mystery.

Our drive home leaves us exhausted yet satisfied to have discovered new parts of ourselves along with this island. As a final farewell, we take a detour past Loch Ness, where from a distance, Nessie waves us off. L 90

Lillia takes in the coastal views

Beena and Lillia discovered just how much they like exploring

The two-hour, seven-kilometre walk at the Quiraing awaits

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

BEENA NADEEM and her family report back from an active adventure in stunning Scotland

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ADVENTURES

WHEN GEORGINA BLASKEY AND HER HUSBAND FOUND THEMSELVES ITCHING TO GO ON CITY BREAKS AGAIN, THIS TIME THEY TOOK THEIR CHILDREN TOO, AND DISCOVERED A WHOLE NEW SIDE TO THEIR FAVOURITE DESTINATIONS

PARIS THE SIGHTS: We started our tour with a boat trip on the Bateau Mouches (bateauxmouches.fr). Embarking near Pont de l’Alma, during this 75-minute trip along the Seine you’ll hear facts about all the famous sights, from the Musée D’Orsay to Notre Dame.

Once docked, we found our way to the Eiffel Tower, just a 15-minute stroll away. Booking in advance is essential if you want to go up via the elevator but as we were feeling a little bit James Bond in our attitude, so we took the stairs – definitely the highlight of the trip.

THE STAY: Hotel 34B (en.astotel.com) in the 9th arrondissement is near Gare du Nord (perfect for the Eurostar) and the Grand Boulevards metro station, offering easy access to all the sights. Housed in an internal

courtyard, complete with atrium, is a lounge where guests can help themselves to free soft drinks, tea, coffee and snacks all day; perfect after a long day of sightseeing (there’s even a complimentary in-room minibar).

CHILL-OUT TIME: During the summer holidays, the Jardin des Tuileries hosts an oldfashioned funfair but offers trampolines and a carousel all year round, while the Jardins du Luxembourg boasts traditional marionette shows, pony rides and a bandstand.

HIDDEN GEMS: We spent an hour at the Smallable concept store, checking out its trendy kids’ labels and design-focused room accessories. The Bonpoint atelier also makes an elegant outing – a Parisian townhouse showcasing the heritage of one of France’s favourite brands.

TRAVEL

See the changing of the guard outside Amalienborg Palace every day at noon

COPENHAGEN THE SIGHTS: Copenhagen feels like it has been designed with children in mind. In the summer, Tivoli Gardens is the smartest theme park you’ll ever visit, where restaurants have white linen tablecloths and flowerbeds burst with colour. Hans Christian Andersen once strolled in these gardens, and we loved watching the ballet dancers perform at the Chinese-inspired outdoor Peacock Theatre.

Witness the changing of the guard at noon each day outside the Royal Family’s residence, Amalienborg Palace, then head to Rosenborg Castle in the King’s Garden for a real-life treasure hunt – tucked away inside the castle are the Crown Jewels. From the King’s New Square (Kongens Nytorv) we strolled down the colourful harbour street Nyhavn and jumped onto a canal tour boat.

THE STAY: Style mavens will love the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel (radissonblu.com), designed by renowned Danish architect Arne Jacobsen. With family suites kitted out in authentic Jacobsen furniture, it’s a midcentury masterpiece. It’s also centrally located opposite Tivoli, just steps from the train station and close to shops and restaurants.

CHILL-OUT TIME: Take the train from the main station and visit the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art (en.louisiana.dk), 35 minutes away, located on a cliff top with panoramic views of Sweden. Here, the Children’s Wing offers drop-in workshops every day, where kids can paint, draw and sculpt. There’s even a Lego room where we lost a couple of hours…

Feast your eyes on Warhol, Hockney, Calder, Moore, Giacometti, Picasso and more.

HIDDEN GEM: The Shooting Range Gardens (Skydebanehaven) in the Vesterbro area of the city are hidden behind vast brick ramparts, originally built to protect passers-by from stray bullets! The space is now a children’s play park, with a toddler pool open on warm days. Skydebanehaven is one of Copenhagen’s staffed playgrounds – they won’t look after the children, but they will arrange activities such as sports tournaments and treasure hunts.

King’s New Square is home to prominent institutions, such as the Royal Theatre

Taking in the sights along the River Seine

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TRAVEL

Shop everything from spices and shawls to bags and perfumes in the vibrant and colourful souks

MARRAKECH THE SIGHTS: At its heart, Marrakech remains an ancient city of crumbling medina walls and winding cobbled alleyways. The best way to experience it is to walk through the souk, which we did happily with our children every morning. Passing residents dressed in the traditional djellaba (hooded gowns worn by men and women), the exotic character of the Red City revealed itself.

Walk though Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, at dusk and the snake charmers, acrobats, fortune tellers and henna artists come to life, as the muezzin sounds his call to prayer.

The family enjoyed a spot of mask-making

CHILL-OUT TIME: The Majorelle Gardens, restored by Yves Saint Laurent, offer a shady and calm retreat. For a cultured antidote to the hustle of the souk, visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa – a Quranic school full of decorative pools and intricately tiled courtyards.

HIDDEN GEMS: Take a dip in the inviting pool and strike a pose at the Beldi Country

VENICE THE SIGHTS: Venice is a destination best seen by boat. The locals use the vaporetto (it’s like the tube, but on water) and it didn’t take long to navigate our way around. However, queuing for the sights in peak season with two children was never going to be an option, so we improvised! Instead of going in to St Mark’s Basilica, we went up the bell tower, Campanile di San Marco, next to it. With a lift providing quick access to the top, we started our day with a panoramic view of the geography of the city (more than 118 islands).

We then walked with the crowds through the little streets to the Grand Canal and the famous Rialto Bridge.

Club (beldicountryclub.com) where Poppy Delevingne got hitched – it’s cool, bohemian and, yes, even child-friendly. For hassle-free shopping, check out the barter-free Souk Cherifia (souk-cherifia.com).

as the kids set off exploring. Alternatively, take a boat to the Lido where the seven-milelong beach faces the Adriatic sea.

HIDDEN GEM: One day we toured with a local guide from Abercrombie & Kent (abercrombiekent.co.uk), which made all the difference. From visiting the oldest gondola yard to mask-making with respected artisans, we discovered the city’s beating heart. L Escape the crowds at the top of Campanile di San Marco

THE STAY: The JW Marriott (marriott.com) is the ideal family accommodation. Located a 20-minute ride away from the hub of St Mark’s Square (there’s a complimentary shuttle service every half an hour), this fivestar hotel on Isola delle Rose is a tranquil antidote to the mayhem of Venice mainland.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

THE STAY: A pocket of peace in the glorious madness of Marrakech is Hotel Tigmiza (hotel-tigmiza-marrakech.com), a luxury, family-owned hideaway in the nearby Palmeraie offering decorative family suites with private pools. If you’re after a hotel with a more international feel, the Four Seasons (fourseasons.com/marrakech) is superb, as is its fun kids’ club designed by a local Moroccan toymaker, where colourful murals adorn the walls.

CHILL-OUT TIME: There’s a cleverly designed adventure playground next door to the hotel pool so we didn’t even leave our sun loungers 94

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NEWS

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT STEP

Researching schools

JUST THE TRICK Abracademy is calling upon the Department of Education to put magic on the curriculum after proving its many benefits. The ‘magic academy’ recently held pilot sessions in 50 schools across the UK, and says practising magic helps children to build confidence and develop vital communication skills. abracademy.com

education If you want to know more about schooling and are keen to plan for the future, then 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/ independent-school-parent or call 020 7349 3700

The Guide to Independent Schools is also available for just £5.95 in selected supermarkets and all good newsagents.

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NEWS

Everything you need to know about what’s going on in and out of the classroom Little ones will be paintbrush pros in no time

VIRTUAL CLASSROOM Katie’s Classroom is the new site offering online tutorials for primary school children. Katie, who has been a teacher for more than a decade, covers all the learning objectives in the National Curriculum and exam syllabus. From £10 per month, katiesclassroom.com

WORK OF ART Encourage your child to get creative with The Painting-In Book by Anna Rumsby. Introducing children to poster paint techniques, the title features 30 activities, from creating a jungle backdrop for Anna’s gorilla to adding toppings to a pizza. £12.99, Laurence King

Handwriting skills are slipping, with over a quarter of primary school children not able to join up a word. The research comes as Berol launches its Write Your Future campaign, offering tips and resources for teachers. writeyourfuture.com 97

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DEVELOPMENT

How to raise a

RESILIENT CHILD GEORGINA BLASKEY DISCOVERS THE KEY TO RAISING KIDS WHO BOUNCE BACK WHEN LIFE KNOCKS THEM DOWN

W

hat do you want for your child as they grow up? A world-class swimming time?

A scholarship to their next school? A degree in a frame and a corner office? These days much of society measures personal success by way of achievements gained, and the ripple effect reaches parenting circles even before kids leave primary school.

The chances are, all you really want is for them to be happy. It’s a simple wish. But it’s LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

easy to lose sight of this basic desire and get caught up in the pressure to ‘do’ and ‘be’ your best all the time, and pass that expectation on to your children. Previous misguided parenting strategies have resulted in a generation – millennials – who struggle with many aspects of life in general. According to motivational speaker and author Simon Sinek, “Too many of them grew up subject to failed parenting strategies where, for example, they were told that they were special – all the 99

time. They were told they could have anything they want in life – just because they want it.

They’re thrust into the real world and in an instant they find out they’re not special, their mums can’t get them a promotion, and you can’t have it just because you want it. Their self image is shattered and you have an entire generation growing up with lower self-esteem – through no fault of their own.”

Parents enjoy praising their children and that still has its place, but how you praise

DEVELOPMENT

REPLAN THE JOURNEY • From newborn to two years, they are physically exploring and investigating.

Let them take controlled risks, for example, climbing over furniture, pulling pans out of the cupboard, and let them fail and find a new way.

• If your child is working on a puzzle and they complete it easily, give them a more challenging one. If they struggle, tell them, “You haven’t failed, we just need to replan how you’re going to finish it.” However many tries it takes, tell them you believe they will do it.

• If during homework your child says, “I can’t do it!”, reply, “You can’t do it yet.” Try to understand why they think they can’t – are they scared they’ll get it wrong or won’t be able to finish?

Break down the journey into more manageable chunks.

We rescue our kids, so they have no experience of knowing if they can cope when things don’t go to plan from mistakes and moving forward. Alicia believes we can help arm our children by relinquishing control. “If a child has lost their jumper at school and is upset, it’s tempting as a parent to go straight in and start looking for it. But all that tells the child is, ‘I don’t think you can do this’. We rescue our kids, so they have no experience of knowing if they can cope when things don’t go to plan. Let them go in and ask the cleaner or the classroom assistant if they’ve seen their jumper.”

Replanning the journey when things don’t work out first time requires patience and perseverance, and encouraging certain activities can help develop these soft skills.

Horse riding, for example, involves taking risks, being responsible for your horse, coping with failure and huge resilience – if you fall 100

off that horse, you will need to get back on it. Similarly, martial arts requires discipline, working with others and picking yourself up.

“Understanding the journey to both winning and losing gives a child information to move forward, it teaches patience, to keep going and bounce back from adversity,” says Alicia.

What lies ahead for our children? That we cannot predict. But as parents we can strive to be their role models through demonstrating patience, perseverance, belief in ourselves, by making mistakes and dealing with them intelligently. Pop those life skills in their backpack and they’ll enjoy life’s journey, whatever they do. L Alicia Drummond is the author of Why Every Teenager Needs A Parrot (£10.99, lets-talk.uk.com)

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

is critical. According to Alicia Drummond, counsellor and parenting coach, we should, “Attach the praise to the action not the child.

Our children are heavily invested in our expectations so to motivate them you should focus on what they get right.” Alicia refers to these remarks as ‘positive strokes’. For example, “You hung your coat up without me asking, that’s really helpful” – in that way you are noticing what they got right and rewarding that by commenting on it, but you are not labelling your child. If you label your child as being, in this case, helpful, they will feel inadequate when they are not being helpful. “By pointing out the abilities they have, they can put those in their metaphorical backpack and remind themselves what they are capable of,” Alicia says. “They don’t always have to be helpful – they haven’t been pigeonholed as the helpful one – but they know they can do it because they’ve done it.”

This backpack full of abilities and qualities gives them the core sense that ‘I’m OK’. It’s an approach which helps mould a more resilient child who is not afraid of failure, of learning

Exceeding Expectations...

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Pupils have access to an array of extra-curricular activities and clubs

MEET THE HEAD

North Bridge House Nursery & Pre-Prep

We chat to the head of the Hampstead-based school, CHRISTINE MCLELLAND How long have you been at North Bridge House?

I became headteacher of North Bridge House Nursery and PrePrep in July 2015. Prior to this, I was deputy head of St. Nicholas Preparatory in Kensington.

Can you tell us a bit about the school’s history?

The North Bridge House group, spanning Hampstead, Regent’s Park and Islington, was founded in 1939 in St John’s Wood, moving to Hampstead’s Netherhall Gardens in the 1950s where our Pre-Prep remains. It wasn’t until the 1960s, however, that our Nursery first opened its doors on Hampstead’s leafy Fitzjohn’s Avenue, where it still thrives today.

What do you see as the strengths of the school?

From as young as two years, nine months, our girls and boys thrive in the school’s nurturing

environment, and it’s my unwavering view that it is our pupils’ happiness that results in their successful learning. One of our major strengths at North Bridge House is our ability to involve our parents in their childrens’ education by giving them the tools to support them at home. Our parent-child mornings and parent workshops create a channel through which both parents and teachers can share advice. They’re an excellent opportunity for North Bridge House parents to experience firsthand the strategies that are used in school and to take away tips to use at home.

Do you offer any activity programmes for your pupils?

We actively encourage our children to grow as individuals outside of the curriculum and to discover their other talents and interests, and as such, our extra-curricular provision is

excellent. At the Nursery, pupils can choose from activities such as yoga, tap dance, drama, art, chess, ukulele and violin clubs.

At the Pre-Prep, the possibilities extend to cookery, karate and science to name a few, while many of the Nursery clubs remain available for pupils to continue their favourite hobbies.

All clubs ensure that each child not only receives an excellent allround education, but also has the opportunity to pursue other areas of inspiration. And we are very proud of our NBH Holiday Club which runs over holiday periods for our Nursery and Pre-Prep pupils. This in-house activity club provides parents with a childcare option where they know activities are tailored specifically for our pupils in order to enhance their learning in a fun and active way.

We also have a very active class reps system across both schools – our parents have organised some fantastic events for both children

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and parents this year, from quiz nights and wine and cheese events to school discos and movie nights, there’s something in the social calendar for everyone.

What’s new this year for the school?

Over the 2016 Christmas period we were delighted to gain a new library at the Pre-Prep.

This now houses a brand new reading scheme which has seen a significant monetary investment.

The children love the new books.

We have also been excited to welcome a new ICT lead who is spearheading the importance of computing at the school, and at the Nursery, we have been running free parent and toddler mornings for parents of children due to join us in September.

These sessions have been a great way for parents and children to make connections before they start school with us. L northbridgehouse.com

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THE VELVETEEN RABBIT A Unicorn Production

By Margery Williams Directed by Purni Morell

++++

‘The children sat entranced’ Daily Mail

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‘Utterly gripping’ The Guardian

UNTIL 15 APR For ages 5+

WHAT’S ON

AG E N DA

LIANNE KOLIRIN reveals what’s on in the capital

CADBURY EGG HUNT Friday 14 to Monday 17 April, 11am to 4pm.

Weave your way around the lawns, terraces, orchard and kitchen garden at Fenton House in your hunt for clues to win a Cadbury chocolate prize this Easter. While there, take the time to explore this handsome 17th century house and grounds, owned by the National Trust.

QUACKY RACES

PRAM JAM

THE TWITS

Thursday 6 April, 11am to 3pm.

Borrow one of the ducks and race it down the river in this Morden Hall Park tradition. While there, take the kids exploring for real wildlife in the wetlands. Watch out for green parakeets, native kingfishers, herons and more.

Wednesday 5 and Wednesday 12 April, 10.30am.

Kick start your day by moving and grooving with your little one, as Pram Jam returns, this time as part of Urban festival. The session is open to children of all abilities aged five and under.

Hampstead Grove, Hampstead,

Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road,

Royal Festival Hall, Belvedere Road,

Wednesday 5 to Sunday 16 April, performance times vary.

The Twits spend their days playing tricks on each other. They also have a sticky trick to catch Roly-Poly birds for their pies!

This adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic promises to be a great Easter treat for the whole family.

London NW3 6SP

Morden, London SM4 5JD

London SE1 8XX

Rose Theatre Kingston, 24–26 High

020 7435 3471,

020 8545 6850,

020 7960 4200,

Street, Kingston, Surrey KT1 1HL

nationaltrust.org.uk

nationaltrust.org.uk

southbankcentre.co.uk

rosetheatrekingston.org

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Admission: £3 per trail.

Fenton House & Garden,

LITTLELONDONMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Admission: £1.50 per duck.

Admission: £5 each.

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Admission: From £13 each.

WHAT’S ON

FUNHARMONICS : ALL ABOARD THE LPO Sunday 30 April, 12pm.

Get ready to be whisked away with the London Philharmonic Orchestra on a journey around the world, from Vienna to New York, in London’s Royal Festival Hall. Arrive an hour beforehand for hands-on science fun and have-a-go instruments in the foyer. Aimed at little ones aged six and over, but family members of all ages are welcome.

Admission: From £10 each.

ART OF MAKE BELIEVE : STAGING CHILDREN’S STORIES Monday to Saturday, 9.30am.

This playful exhibition explores how classic stories have been transformed into theatre. Curious kids will have the chance to operate theatre lighting and sound effects, and play with props and costumes.

Admission: Free.

National Theatre, Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PX nationaltheatre.org.uk

Royal Festival Hall, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX 020 7960 4200, southbankcentre.co.uk

NATIONAL PET SHOW Sensational Butterflies

MOORE FAMILY FUN RUN

SENSATIONAL BUT TERFLIES

Monday 1 May, 10am.

Get the family active over the Bank Holiday on this fun run.

Participants can complete either a 5k or 10k route by running or walking around Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Funds raised will benefit vulnerable primary school pupils across the capital.

Until Sunday 17 September, 10am to 5.50pm.

Sensational Butterflies is back at the Natural History Museum!

Get up close to stunning species in this outdoor exhibition, including the Swallowtail, Blue Morpho, Moon Moth and more with live specimens, games and interactive displays.

Admission: From £15 each; under-10s go free.

Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 May, 9.30am to 5pm.

With hundreds of different animals, free pet care advice and even some celebrity appearances, the National Pet Show is an exciting event for the whole family. Highlights include cuddles for everyone in the brand new animal handling tents, the Secret Rabbit Garden and a chance to meet miniature horses.

Admission: Adults, £21; children, £16; under-fives go free.

ExCel, Royal Victoria Dock, 1

Admission: £6.50 each; under-fours

Western Gateway, London E16 1XL

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park,

go free.

thenationalpetshow.com

Stratford, London E20 3HB

East Lawn, Natural History Museum,

active.com

Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD

THE INSECT CIRCUS

020 7942 5000, nhm.ac.uk

Sunday 14 May, 10.30am to 5.30pm.

That’s the way to do it! This spring, Covent Garden comes alive for its annual May Fayre & Puppet Festival. Besides the regular Punch & Judy celebrations, there’s also folk music, dancers, clowns, jugglers, workshops and stalls to enjoy.

Tuesday 4 to Saturday 8 April, 11am and 2pm.

Amongst astounding arthropod aerialists, balancing beetles and beauteous butterflies, astonishing novelties will be performed by this outstanding troupe of circus stars. Not to mention Sybil, the only performing snail in the western world. Standing seven feet tall, she is remarkable for her immense size and gentle docility.

A warm and witty show the whole family will enjoy.

£3.50; under-fours go free.

The garden of St Paul’s Church,

ticket, £33.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew,

Bedford Street, London WC2E 9ED

The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford,

Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB

020 7375 0441,

London SE8 4AG

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020 8692 4446, thealbany.org.uk

THE MOOMINS AT KEW Saturday 1 to Monday 17 April, 10am to 5.30pm.

With the arrival of spring, the Moomins will be coming out of hibernation for all sorts of mischief. There’s a Moomin trail to enjoy amongst the flowering daffodils, and you might even glimpse Moomintroll through the trees! Little ones will also enjoy the play dens and activities.

Admission: Adults, £15; children,

MAY FAYRE & PUPPET FESTIVAL

Admission: Free.

PEPPA PIG’S MUDDY PUDDLE WALK Monday 8 to Sunday 14 May. Peppa Pig and Save the Children have organised this great way for little ones to explore the outdoors for a worthy cause. Children can be sponsored to walk or splash in puddles at the park. Register online for details.

Admission: Free.

Locations nationwide savethechildren.org.uk/muddypuddle-walk

IWA CANALWAY CAVALCADE Saturday 29 April to Monday 1 May, times vary.

Take the kids to see the colourful narrowboats adorned with flowers and bunting for this annual celebration. The three-day party offers varied attractions, including shows, music and boat trips. There are also stalls, Morris dancers, food and plenty of real ale for the grown-ups, too.

Admission: Free.

Little Venice, Paddington, London W9 07979 676461, waterways.org.uk National Pet Show

Admission: £11 each; family

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WHAT’S ON

THE ROBOT ZOO Until Sunday 29 October, 10.30am to 5pm.

This exhibition features largerthan-life animals that have been innovatively recreated using familiar machine parts and gadgets to reveal how their reallife counterparts see, eat, hunt and hide. Interactive exhibits give you the chance to try jetpropelled squid racing, shoot a chameleon’s ‘tongue-gun’ and design a mutant robot.

GO APE ! AT ALEX ANDRA PAL ACE Daily, 10am to 4pm.

Big kids of all ages will be able to unleash their inner Tarzan at the brand new Go Ape in Ally Pally.

It features a Tree Top Junior course, where little monkeys can scramble around a challenging series of wobbly crossings. The finale is a 50m zip-wire.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY Tuesday 16 to Saturday 20 May, performance times vary.

Everyone’s favourite kooky family are now on stage in a touring production of this musical comedy. Join them and Uncle Fester, Lurch and more for a heart-warming story of family and friendship – with a twist!

Admission: From £15 each.

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT Until Saturday 15 April, performance times vary.

The Velveteen Rabbit is the tale of a shy toy rabbit who longs to become real. He spends his days on the nursery floor, dreaming of being picked up and loved. Then, one day, he is rediscovered and his hopes start to come true...

Admission: Adults, £33; children,

New Wimbledon Theatre, The

from £18.

Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG

Unicorn Theatre, 147 Tooley Street,

Alexandra Palace, Alexandra

0844 871 7646,

London SE1 2HZ

Admission: Adults, £7; children, £4;

Palace Way, London N22 7AY

theaddamsfamily.co.uk

unicorntheatre.com

under-fours go free.

goape.co.uk

MAKE THE FUTURE LIVE

THE ORIGINAL HARLEM GLOBETROT TERS

Horniman Museum & Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill,

EASTER EGG TRAIL

London SE23 3PQ

Saturday 1 to Sunday 17 April, 10am to 5pm.

Embark on the challenge to find the colourful Easter eggs at Battersea Park Zoo – but be careful, they are being guarded by the zoo’s residents! Pick up a quiz sheet for clues and prizes.

020 8699 1872, horniman.ac.uk

TUNNEL : THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF CROS SRAIL Until Sunday 3 September, 10am to 6pm.

This exhibition charts a journey beneath London following the Elizabeth line, uncovering the archaeological discoveries found beneath the city streets.

The objects on display explore 8,000 years of history and reveal the stories of Londoners from Roman Londinium to the Great Plague of 1665.

Admission: Free.

Museum of London Docklands, No.1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London E14 4AL museumoflondon.org.uk

IMPERIAL FESTIVAL Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 May, activity times vary.

This annual festival showcases the best in science and arts at Imperial College London.

Explore the livelier side of science with this weekend of activities and talks for all ages, including demos and workshops.

Highlights include the robot zone and flight simulator.

Admission: £1.50 per trail, plus standard admission applies.

Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, Battersea Park, London SW11 4NJ batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

CELEBRIT Y DUST Y DUCK TRAIL

Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 May. Make the Future Live is a free festival of innovation, featuring the Shell Eco-Marathon Europe, which challenges students to design and build ultra energy efficient cars, then drive them on a purpose-built track.

Other attractions include live performances and immersive experiences.

Admission: Free.

Admission: From £8 each.

Thursday 13 April, 6.30pm.

The world-famous Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, bring their show to the UK. Every game will showcase ball-handling wizardry, trick shots, comedy and interaction.

The stars also sign autographs and take photos with fans.

Admission: From £18.50 each.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park,

The SSE Arena, Wembley,

Stratford, London E20 3HB

London HA9 0AA

queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk

0844 815 0815, ssearena.co.uk

Saturday 1 April to Sunday 21 May, 9.30am to 5.30pm.

Aardman Studios designed Dusty Duck to celebrate WWT’s 70th anniversary and this Easter, Dusty, along with 14 other celebrity-designed Dustys, will be on show at the London centre.

Admission: £1 per trail, plus standard admission applies.

London Wetland Centre, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, London SW13 9WT 020 84094400, wwt.org.uk The Velveteen Rabbit

Admission: Free.

Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus,

Go Ape! at Alexandra Palace

London SW7 2AZ 020 75895111, imperial.ac.uk

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Ninjago World at Legoland

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NINJAGO WORLD From May, see website for details.

The brand new Lego Ninjago World takes guests through interactive scenes in training for Ninjago The Ride at Legoland Windsor. This thrilling ride uses 4D effects of heat, smoke and wind, enabling riders to virtually throw fire balls, ice and lightning using nothing but their hands.

Admission: From £30 each.

Legoland Windsor, Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 4AY 0845 373 2640, legoland.co.uk

LIT TLE GREEN FINGERS GARDENING SES SION Saturday 8 April, 10.30am to 12pm.

Get stuck in with this hands-on gardening workshop for children and their parents to explore and learn how vegetables and flowers grow, with the opportunity to sow, plant, care for and harvest produce in Fulham Palace’s beautiful walled garden.

Admission: £7 per child.

Fulham Palace, Bishop’s Avenue, Fulham, London SW6 6EA

AIRJUMP TRAMPOLINE PARK Open daily, from 10am.

AirJump is the brand new 14,000 square foot trampoline park opening in Orpington this spring. It features a Battle Beam to knock your opponent off, slam-dunk basketball hoops, a giant air bag to throw yourself onto from a tower, a Cardio Wall, as well as a soft-play area for children under five. Classes will be available, including parent and toddler sessions.

020 7736 3233, fulhampalace.org

FOOTGOLF Saturdays, Sundays and school holidays, 12pm to 1.45pm.

Make your way around the 18-hole course using a football in groups of four. The object of the game is to get the ball into the hole using only your feet in the fewest number of shots possible.

Combine power and precision to score a goal in one! It’s outdoor fun for the whole family.

Admission: Adults, £12; children, £6.

Admission: TBC, email for details.

Lee Valley Golf Course, Meridian

5a Lagoon Road, Orpington,

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020 8803 3611,

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Discover the world together at the British Museum!

Challenge your family to complete fun, creative challenges and explore the Museum through a series of special adventures. Who will win? Find out with the Museum’s new interactive game-based guide.

Family guide sponsored by

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Spanish baby and children’s outfits, clothes, baby grow, bonnets, bodysuits, baby rompers, baby condor tights, bloomers, trousers, swimwear and cardigans all from Spanish clothing designers.

www.annaandlouis.com Fun French Lessons

Innovative immersion programme Highly recommended by BBC, Daily Telegraph, Daily Express and Time Out

Venues across London

Est. 1993

020 7385 5565 admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

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

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

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

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NOTTING HILL • KNIGHTSBRIDGE • CHISWICK

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GROUPS AND CLASSES Our favourite things to get out and do BALLET CL AS SES

SUPER SCIENCE

FO OTBALL C OAC H I N G

After-school and Saturday classes.

West London School of Dance was founded in 1986 by Anna Du Boisson.

The purpose of the school is to teach different forms of dance and provide students with the opportunity to perform in professionally staged productions, with classes for boys and girls aged twoand-a-half to 16 years old. The school’s philosophy is to inspire in its pupils a love of music, movement and freedom of expression. The classes are professional, all accompanied by pianists and taught by qualified staff. Unlike other ballet schools in London, the school does not follow an exam syllabus to measure progress; instead it offers the students the challenge and thrill of performance. Studios are located in W1, W2, W11, W12 and SW7. t: 020 8743 3856 westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk

LEARN TO SWIM

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.

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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

MIKEL WEARS JUMPSUIT, £167, CARAMEL. SOCKS, £12.50, MABLI. SHOES, FROM £26, MARKS & SPENCER

MILOU & PILOU

CUCKOOLAND

Capture a slice of Mediterranean style with Milou & Pilou. The Spanish boutique has only been around for a few years, but its comfortable, stylish clothing has proven a whirlwind success with mothers and daughters everywhere. For ages two to 10, its focus is the use of exclusive fabrics, such as traditional linen and Liberty-print poplin.

Everything is manufactured in the sewing shops of Barcelona, ensuring the brand’s production line remains local and ethical.

Create a truly magical and bespoke bedroom for your child with Cuckooland’s range of quirky furniture and toys. From novelty beds made to look like aeroplanes and camper vans, to supersized beanbags, printed teepees and indoor hammocks, this is the place to let their imaginations run wild. The online retailer has plenty of gift ideas and worldwide designer pieces for the rest of the home and garden, too, so parents don’t have to miss out on all the fun.

milouandpilou.com

cuckooland.com

MISTER MASTER & LITTLE MISS

CATH KIDSTON

Also known as MMLM Kids, this online boutique offers stylish and colourful clothing for mini fashionistas aged up to 12 years.

The collections stocked are from several handpicked European brands, while the toys and gifts range goes back to basics to inspire little ones’ imagination through play. Shop everything from sweet newborn ensembles to stunning party outfits and accessories for older children. Every order is sent out beautifully gift-wrapped, too.

Since opening her first shop in West London more than two decades ago, Cath Kidston has become one of the best-loved names in British design. The brand’s range of products includes a selection of children’s bags and stationery, as well as clothing and toys for boys and girls.

The label will soon be releasing its second collaboration with Disney, combining its signature prints with illustrations from the classic film 101 Dalmatians.

ALEX AND ALEXA

ALEXANDALEXA.COM

BONPOINT

BONPOINT.COM

BULB LONDON

BULBLONDON.CO.UK

CARAMEL

CARAMEL-SHOP.CO.UK

CHILDRENSALON

CHILDRENSALON.COM

DANDY STAR

DANDYSTAR.COM

HANNAH & TIFF

HANNAHANDTIFF.COM

JAXON JAMES

JAXONJAMES.UK

LA COQUETA

LACOQUETAKIDS.COM

MABLI

MABLI.CO.UK

MAINIO

MAINIOCLOTHING.COM

MARIE-CHANTAL

MARIECHANTAL.CO.UK

MUESLII

MUESLII.COM

NEXT

NEXT.CO.UK

NOÉ & ZOË

NOE-ZOE.COM

PEPA & CO

PEPAANDCOMPANY.COM

PETITE PEARL

LOWE PEARLLOWE.CO.UK

SMALLABLE

EN.SMALLABLE.COM

SUNUVA

SUNUVA.COM

TOTO LONDON

TOTOLONDON.CO.UK

TRIXIE BABY

TRIXIE-BABY.COM

WILD & GORGEOUS

WILDANDGORGEOUS.CO.UK

YOUNG SOLES

YOUNGSOLES.CO.UK

mmlmkids.com

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Stores across London cathkidston.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY: KATRINA LAWSON JOHNSTON

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Working with

INTERVIEW

The brand is known for its pretty partywear and statement prints

THE BUSINESS Lucy Enfield and Sophie Worthington founders of

WILD & GORGEOUS The designer duo talk family, inspiration and dressing royalty Wild & Gorgeous has evolved in the last year from ilovegorgeous, which you set up 10 years ago. What sparked your passion for children’s clothing?

S: Having our own children. I think we

can both confess that until we had children ourselves, the sartorial problems of a four year old were of no interest to us! But, of course, once we had our very own little ones to dress, it became a different story. Our original aim was to make beautiful clothes for girls using interesting fabrics, styles and trims that didn’t exist in the childrenswear market at that time.

Why did you make the decision to move into boys’ clothing too?

L: We have been making clothes for girls

since we set up shop around the kitchen table, but whenever we thought, yes, let’s add a boyswear collection, we were always

scuppered by the girly name ilovegorgeous.

So really, the rebrand to Wild & Gorgeous was a long-held ambition to create clothes for boys as well as girls.

Describe a typical day for you…

S: Every day brings different challenges

as we both work on multiple aspects of the business, but it always starts with two strong cappuccinos! We work on design together, but Lucy heads up the production team and I head up the marketing team. At the moment we have been launching SS17 online and instore, which involved a two-day studio shoot and a two-day edit. We are showing AW17 to wholesale and working on design for SS18. Our studio is based in Notting Hill Gate, close to where we both live and to Portobello market where we are frequently found browsing on a Friday morning for inspiration.

What’s the best thing about your job?

L: The varied nature of the work.

Every day brings new challenges.

We also love working together to create unique designs.

We also enjoy each other’s company and respect each other’s opinion, so I guess the answer is teamwork.

How do you manage to juggle family life with work?

S: Now our children are a little bit older,

it’s getting easier as they are way more independent. The most challenging time was when they were young and we had to travel or work late. We are both lucky to have supportive husbands and plenty of friends who would step in and help out. I think a lot of women are now juggling children and careers, so we form a mutually supportive network of school runs and sleepovers.

What’s been your proudest moment?

L: Oh gosh, that’s a hard one! Every new

collection that lands feels like a proud moment, as well as every award we’ve won and every compliment from a satisfied customer. We’re also very proud of moments like when David Cameron’s children wore Wild & Gorgeous on the steps of Downing Street as they left No.10, or Prince George wearing a jumper form our first boyswear collection on the Royal Tour last year.

What advice would you give to those wanting to launch their own brand?

S: Keep going. Keep going. Keep going. It’s

a long, hard road establishing a brand in an increasingly competitive market so you need to have a clear vision and lots of energy. L

wildandgorgeous.co.uk

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