Summer 2019 • Issue 5
SUMMER TIME IS PARTY TIME
HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY CHERUBS
Girls’ Pinafore with Permanent Pleats
£10 - £14
2 Pack Girls’ Slim Fit Polo Shirts
£7 - £13
2 Pack Boys’ Slim Fit Polo Shirts
£7 - £13
Advertising Feature
4
On the 31st August we will be holding a community fundraising event at St Michael’s Primary School, S4K Hotshots! We aim to bring all of our skills centres, nurseries and schools together for a day of action packed fun to raise money for our local church, St Michaels and All Angels – ALL ARE WELCOME!
“Winner of the family and visitor attraction awards - Best Children and Toddler Sport Classes - London” As announced in Lux Magazine The quest to revolutionise children’s sports and entertainment has arrived in the boroughs of Enfield and Barnet – Give your little ones the best opportunity to engage with sport and monitor their progress with award winning Sport4Kids (18 months to seven years). Sport4Kids (S4K) have launched revolutionary, award winning children’s sports development and entertainment classes for toddlers, kids and children (from 18 months upwards) on Saturday mornings at Southgate School in Southgate and Cockfosters, Bush Hill Park Primary in Bush Hill Park, Sunday mornings at St Ignatious College and Tuesday mornings at St Andrews Parish Centre. Rugby classes and football are running at these venues and we offer, of course, free taster sessions to experience the S4K Way to help make the decision whether the classes are right
for your little one! Golf, cricket, tennis and dance to come later in 2019. The breadth and depth of the S4K model is significant. Endorsed by Colin Jackson, one of the country’s most successful Olympians, this is ultimately a win for children, parents, schools and nurseries in the area. It is fuelled by research and continuous development, to offer groundbreaking programmes that get better and better, allowing children and parents to engage with development and see the progress. The recent Parliamentary Review 2018 provided S4K national recognition as a Best Practice Representative – showcasing service industry standards and innovation. Highlights include research-driven, Ofsted-accredited curriculum, player progression pathways, practice@home books, and much more. Children are
developed through programmes based on child psychology, Montessori learning methods, and world class skills coaching. One smile at a time. We truly believe S4K is revolutionising the Enfield and Barnet toddler and children’s sports market with this winning combination. Following rapid growth, seeing the opening of four venues in the first six months many classes are close to being filled so book in now to avoid your children missing out! Give your little ones the best chance to engage with and develop through sport, from toddler through to pre-school and beyond! We are also providing sessions within a number of nurseries in the borough and providing four local schools in the area a term of free PE to experience the S4K Way.
10 reasons why we believe Sport4Kids is the winning formula for
parents looking to engage toddlers and children with Football and Rugby classes across the borough of Enfield & Barnet 1. Passionate about smiles
Children enjoying themselves is the most important thing to S4K. We’re inspired by Walt Disney and aspire to develop our programmes that engage children alike through creative storytelling as we take children through their S4K learning journey. This is a key founding principle as we work to maximise the number of smiles on kids and parents, the S4K Way.
2. Child psychology
Children need to feel comfortable in order to build passion and engagement, to be the best they can be. One of our co-founders, Dr. Mark Gould, is a Doctor of Psychology, instils research-driven methods into every way S4K interacts with children.
Children can best succeed when in an environment that best allows the development of motor, cognitive, and social skills. Research suggests modern technology and safety are limiting development of motor skills, which is impacting cognitive skills development. S4K apply Montessori learning methods that are based on the ‘prepared environment’ for the ‘prepared child’.
Children deserve access to high quality curriculum, that gets better and better. S4K programmes have been accredited by Ofsted. Further, S4K review and update lesson plans every month, which are prescribed and scripted to ensure each child and parent gets the true S4K experience.
5. World class technical skills development
Children can learn world class technical skills through being taught how to apply theory.
Children develop skills through repeat-ability (practice!). S4K have created well-defined and clearly structured learning programmes, and child progression can be easily tracked in sessions and most importantly developed through practising at home! S4K provide practice@home books for every age group across every sport, so it’s easy to understand which areas to focus on for every child.
7. First class service delivery
Children services often do not have the same levels of service standards expected in other service industries, and can often appear unprofessional, providing a bad experience to children and parents. One of the co-founders, Steve Jones, brings his professional services industry heritage and quality standards into every way S4K operates. S4K is all about providing the best possible experience to every child and parent, and this is clearly resonated by many parents and children across the S4K community.
8. Coach development pathways and audits
Children will get the best experience with the best coaches. S4K want to ensure every family gets the proper S4K experience, and ensure coaches are well-trained to perform to their best ability. Our detailed coach development pathways include online
9. Community builders
S4K children and parents will form close bonds with a shared passion for development and enjoyment through sport. S4K take pride on extending the family-oriented culture within S4K community hubs, and parents can connect online through Facebook pages and groups for each hub. In Enfield we plan to hold a number of fun, child-centred events throughout the year.
10. Nursery & school offering
We partner with a number of nurseries to provide bespoke sports solutions to suit every need. Our solutions focus on encouraging healthy lifestyles in our toddlers and children but also assisting them in meeting the Early Years Foundation Stages (EYFS) through fun filled physical activities. The difference between us and our competitors is that all of the EYFS criteria are met through fun games and activities that are designed from a child’s perspective to ensure maximum levels of enjoyment at all times. The S4K Education Partnership Programme for schools provides the complete solution for PE and school Sport. The six pillars of the partnership are designed to help support schools in line with PE and School Sport Premium Funding, National Curriculum and International programme guidelines. The S4K PE Curriculum is designed for primary aged children (Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2). The S4k Pupil Pathway, S4K PE Books, S4K Early Risers Club, S4K Home Club and S4K wraparound care are some of the options/services we provide our schools though our S4K Education Partnership Programme.
Find us on Facebook: sports4kids Cockfosters & Southgate & Sport4Kids Enfield To book a free taster at any of our venues you can do so at www.sport4kids.biz
To advertise email info@cherubsmagazine.com
4. Ofsted accredited, continuously improving curriculum
6. Practice@home books
learning through the S4K University so our coaches and entertainers know exactly what’s expected of them, and how they can get better and better. We regularly audit coach performance to strive to always provide S4K standards for every child and parent, every time. We also provide training to our coaches via an early years Specialist
cherubsmagazine.com
3. Montessori learning methods
S4K identify and apply a composite of renowned best practices across each sport for each skill area, and break each skill down into the motor skills that can be understood and applied at each age group. For example, football is based on the Dutch Coerver methods for ball manipulation and dribbling, Spanish ‘Tiki-Taka’ for space creation through quick tempo passing, and Brazilian Futsal for samba-inspired skill and flair. Rugby is based on precision ball handling techniques inspired by the All Blacks (Rugby Union) and Australian Rugby League sides.
The Gruffalo © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 1999 – Macmillan Children’s Books.
D 19 EN 0 T 2 ES ER W MM SU
BASED ON THE PICTURE BOOK BY JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER
LIVE ON STAG E
WED 3 JUL - SUN 8 SEP gruffalolive.com
Piccadilly Circus 5 mins
Contents Summer 2019 • Issue 5
They say time flies when you’re having fun and it certainly does. Where did that year go? How has my baby, Cherubs, turned a year old already and gained such wonderful interest from you, my lovely readers? I can only thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting a mum with a dream. No business has an easy run in its first year, often there are more downs than ups. However, with the love, care and heartfelt support we’ve received from you all, it’s allowed Cherubs to be one of the most popular free, family lifestyle magazines in London! If you have an idea, jot it down on a Post-it note somewhere. Or if, like me, you lay awake at night after being woken several times by the kids for no apparent reason and your mind starts wondering, let it wander to the place that reveals your creativity. More often than not, after we have children, it’s common to feel a loss of identity. We become the person that hovers in the background and is recognised if something is needed. When the time is right, take a step forward and nurture your soul. Being the proud owner of a business is one of my biggest achievements in life. Enjoy the Summer, whatever you may be doing. This edition is jam-packed with things to do with your joyful ones over the long summer holidays. Don’t pack everything into one week, allow a few movie days, drop them to the grandparents for a few hours (days, if you get lucky), you can even turn a few chores into ways of making some extra pocket money.
8 22 32 46 52
Education 14 How to help your anxious child 20 School daze to school days Health & Wellbeing 23 Mama’s little instinct 30 10 things I wish I’d known about potty training Lifestyle 34 To Dad 42 Happy 1st birthday Cherubs Travel 48 Real life Disney destinations you can actually visit 50 Surviving summer travel with kids Summer Activities 58 Museums to visit this summer 62 Fun for dogs and kids with Pooches & Prams
Whatever the weather, rain or shine, be thankful for the air you breathe and smile at the memories you’re creating. I dedicate this edition to my father, a man who didn’t need the sun to sparkle as it constantly shone through his eyes. Here’s to the next year.
Sevim x
Love
EDITOR
BUB91
Publisher & Editor: Sevim Safer Style Editor: Antonia Sanchez-Toomey Health & Fitness Editor: Mary Huckle Yoga and Movement Therapist: Cathy Underwood Healthy Food Columnist: Christianna Karaolis Lifestyle Blogger: Jason Suttie Make up Column: Elena Lazarou Travel Expert: Eda Ayyildiz Cake Artist: Stevie Georgiou Designer: Chris Webb Printers: The Roma Group, 3 Drakes, Enfield Front Cover Photo: ©Konstantin Yuganov | Dreamstime.com
To advertise in our next issue email info@cherubsmagazine.com or call 0203 978 7332 While we take every care to ensure details are correct the publisher will take no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are advised to check information published with individual advertisers and take legal advice where appropriate before entering into any transactions. Where prices or dates are quoted they are correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change. Unless specifically stated the publisher does not endorse any product or service appearing in the magazine. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher.
Follow us on social media for daily updates @CherubsMagazine
Education
Education
8
Keble Prep Winchmore Hill
Bringing together all areas of learning providing boys with a solid foundation to
– GROW, SUCCEED & ACHIEVE –
Tel: 020 8360 3359
Email: admissions@kebleprep.co.uk
www.kebleprep.co.uk
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01/03/2019 09:51
Winchmore Hill
Keble Prep is a school with a long tradition of doing just what its name says, preparing boys for their next school. At Keble we understand the importance of strong foundations, which is why we have a committed Early Years team in Reception. Their aim is to set your son on the right track in his school life, and for our dedicated teaching staff to continue this throughout his Keble career. Studying at Keble is much more than just passing exams, and being part of the school means ensuring the boys here are not only well educated but also develop their skills and talents across a range of areas.
We are able to achieve this due to our small class sizes and the high expectations we have of the boys. We pride ourselves in combining high academic standards with opportunities for boys to achieve in Sport, Music and Drama, as well as enjoying a broad extra-curricular programme.
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Being a standalone school means our boys sit entrance exams to a large array of senior schools for 11+ and 13+, and with great results. This year has proved no exception and we are proud of the success our current Year 6 and Year 8 boys have had in gaining senior school places. In recent years boys have been offered places at selective grammar schools such as Latymer, Dame Alice Owens and Queen Elizabeth Boys, testament to the preparation they have received for the examinations here at Keble. We have also secured places for our boys at many Independent schools at both 11 and 13, including Mill Hill, St Albans, Haberdashers’, Highgate, Haileybury, St Edmunds, St Columba’s, Westminster and City of London. If you are looking for a school where your son can grow, achieve and succeed, then do come along to one of our Open Mornings where you can see for yourself how our approach to learning can benefit your son. Contact Jane Wicks for more information on 0208 360 33359.
12/01/2018 16:26
Right Start Montessori Botany Bay and Enfield Baptist Church settings today announced that they have received national recognition for going above and beyond the minimum requirements in paediatric first aid. With its robust processes and documentation, the nursery staff strive to keep children safe by minimising risks and accidents and givingparents that greater reassurance.
Right Start Montessori comments: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded Millie’s Mark This is a special achievement and shows how serious we are about ensuring children are safe when they are in our care. I would like to thank everyone who has supported us during this process and we are all very much looking forward to celebrating our success.”
Right Start Montessori Nursery has been awarded Millie’s Mark by National Day Nurseries Association in collaboration with Department for Education and Millie’s Trust. Millie’s Mark is named after Millie Thompson, who tragically died as a result of choking in a nursery in 2012. Her parents Dan and Joanne Thompson have campaigned for all staff to have paediatric first aid training and having Millie’s Mark demonstrates that nurseries have met this. In addition, it shows they work hard to keep these crucial skills in the forefront of employees’ minds, so they are competent and can apply paediatric first aid in any situation.
Purnima Tanuku, Chief Executive of National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) adds: “Achieving Millie’s Mark is a great achievement for the nursery, it shows that all staff are fully trained in paediatric first aid and that they have reflected on their current practice to improve competence and confidence. Becoming a Millie’s Mark’s nursery is a clear indicator for parents that this nursery has met the highest standards and gives them the reassurance that their children are safe’. © NDNA August 2016
T H E O N LY P R E P S C H O O L IN N21 OFFERING A TOP
P R I VAT E EDUCATION FOR BOYS AND GIRLS FROM 3 YEARS THROUGH TO 11+ • • • •
High academic standards Small classes 11+ preparation Specialist subject teachers
PLEASE CONTACT US TO ARRANGE A VISIT 13 The Chine, Grange Park, London N21 2EA T: 020 8360 1469 E: office@gpps.org.uk
www.gpps.org.uk
• Competitive fees • Extensive extra curricular programme • Wrap around care 7:45am - 6:00pm
VOT E D I N T H E TO P 10 0 INDEPENDENT ENGLISH P R E PA R ATO R Y S C H O O L S I N T H E CO U N T R Y
Why Choose Palmers Green High School? Education - Advertising Feature
12
A PGHS education will give your daughter a great start in life. Headmistress Wendy Kempster discusses the reasons why… Traditional Values A forward thinking school with strong traditions. We are driven by our aims, ethos, tradition and values to create a community of parents, pupils and teachers working passionately towards the same goals. Our teaching and pastoral care embed strong moral and spiritual values, exemplified by our 114 year old school motto “By Love Serve One Another”.
Academic Success
We specialise in educating girls, providing exciting learning opportunities to encourage curiosity, creativity and confidence. PGHS is TOP of the Sunday Times League Table for small independent schools. Girls leave PGHS with outstanding GCSE results transferring to high-achieving sixth forms before moving on to the top universities in the country.
Nursery to GCSE
PGHS is a very special ‘through-school’ where strong friendships are formed and extend beyond year groups. Pupils progress in a familiar setting, benefiting from seamless transitions across Key Stages and there is an authentic feeling of being one family.
Attention to detail from small class sizes
Small class sizes enable staff to spot and nurture the potential of each individual. Our lower staff-to-pupil ratios encourage close relationships between staff, pupils
and parents and a greater level of individual attention.
Wide range of extracurricular activities and trips
In addition to academic success, we understand the importance of developing well-rounded individuals. PGHS offers an exciting programme of extracurricular activities with over 80 running every week! School trips to museums, theatres, galleries, field trips, as well as language, history and art trips abroad offer valuable learning opportunities outside the classroom. Other activities include Kingswood, skiing and the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Teachers
Our School combines high standards of teaching with superb pastoral care. PGHS teachers are highly qualified and passionate about their subject. Specialist teachers deliver timetabled sport, music, drama, art, D&T and languages to pupils at all educational stages. Pastoral care is exceptional and dedicated staff support pupils throughout their time at PGHS. Pupils develop the strength of character and vision to become confident and responsible young people.
Excellent facilities
Learning is enhanced by specialist teaching, facilities and resources. Teaching rooms are all equipped with stateof-the-art teaching walls providing modern, bespoke learning environments. Girls also benefit from using the school’s specialist science laboratories, D&T workshop, music
suite, library and art studio.
Sports
We are committed to enabling girls to discover and develop their sporting talents. Sports are taught on site and at the local Walker Cricket Ground where the pupils enjoy year-round use of the high-quality netball and tennis courts, athletics field and football pitch. In addition, we use both Southbury and Southgate Leisure Centres to ensure pupils are offered a diverse range of sporting activities including aerobics, badminton, basketball, swimming and trampolining.
Wrap-around care
In an environment that nurtures and cares for children combined with healthy, nutritious food. We run a Breakfast Club and have exclusive links with M+M Childcare who provide bespoke after-school provision for PGHS.
Location
We are your local school. Your daughter can be involved in extracurricular activities after school and be home at a reasonable time to be involved in activities outside of school, to tackle her homework and still have time to relax. Come along to one of our Working Open Mornings or arrange for a personal tour at a time that suits you. Details can be found on our website at www. pghs.co.uk or telephone 0208 886 1135.
Your local Independent School for Girls aged 3-16 years Number 1 in The Sunday Times national league table for small independent schools
Open Morning ‑ Saturday 12ᵗ� October 2019 11+ Scholarship & Entrance Exam ‑ Saturday 18ᵗ� January 2020 Nursery Open Mornings every Wednesday at 9.30am by appointment ● Outstanding Nursery with excellent facilities ● Specialist teaching from Reception class ● Small class sizes/excellent pastoral care ● Over 80 extra-curricular clubs run each week ● Wrap around care available ● Half class teaching groups in the Senior School ● Scholarships and bursaries available at 11+ ● Excellent GCSE/IGCSE results in 2018 - A*/9/8 - 53% and A*/9 to A/7 - 79%
Palmers Green High School, 104 Hoppers Road, London N21 3LJ Tel: 020 8886 1135 www.pghs.co.uk Email:office@pghs.co.uk
14 Education
How to help your anxious child By Sunayana Clark Our strongest desire is for our children to be healthy and living a life filled with love and laughter. However, anxiety is a pervasive invisible illness that robs our children of their smiles. It reminds me of the Dementors from Harry Potter – sucking the joy out of children’s lives. So what do we do about it? Sometimes anxiety can be a good thing. It teaches us to self-soothe; builds resilience and gets us thinking creatively for solutions. For example, a child who is starting a new school can be helped to calm their nerves by walking the route or if they have to take the bus, doing the journey with them in the holidays to build their confidence. By modelling this type of behaviour, we are teaching our children that situations (and our anxiety) can be managed. For a child with generalised anxiety – characterised by inexplicable tummy ache (or other pains), refusing to go to school, feeling tearful or angry, feeling isolated from their peers and struggling with self confidence,
not sleeping or unable to concentrate – there are some things we can do as a family to help them. Remind them how much you love them morning, noon and evening. If said, irrespective of how well they are doing at school or in their clubs, it becomes a constant that they can rely on. Hug them too – if they will let you, as physical touch is beneficial. Make yourself available to them. Let them know that you are here to listen and not judge. You may find yourself shocked about what your children say and question your parenting but this is not the moment to let them know that. Your job is to keep quiet, listen and reassure them that you love them no matter what, and, together, you will find the help that they need. Practical ways to help are to have games night playing board or card games as they are brilliant ways to bond and laugh. Laughing releases endorphins (which are your feel-good chemicals), reduces cortisol and adrenaline (your stress hormones) and
shows them that life is not awful. Wrap up warm and get outdoors as a family. It reduces stress levels (which are very high when we are anxious). Spotty skin will clear up and irritable hormone-driven behaviour will disappear as they feel mentally calmer. Anxiety is pervasive and is an accumulation of smaller stresses. By creating a nonjudgemental, loving environment, you are providing your child with a safe haven from the outside world, the space to come up with their solutions and teaching them that this anxiety will pass. My final tip is to emphasise the need for a good night’s sleep. Sit with your child (like you did when they were smaller) and talk about gentle neutral subjects that will help to relax them. For some anxious teens, weighted blankets can be useful to help them sleep. Feelgood Treatments T: 07515 561514 www.feelgoodtreatments.co.uk
cherubsmagazine.com - Advertising Feature
Cherubs Magazine’s Chosen Charity This is a great opportunity for parents to get together to share interests and support each other.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be working with such a professional and dynamic team.” – Ayse Adil, founder and project manager of FBS.
Solution Focused Parenting Group
What do we do at Family Based Solutions?
What you can expect: A light-hearted conversation-based group, where we can use solution focused tools and techniques to help us understand the way we parent and deal with everyday family life.
Our coffee mornings are held on Tuesdays (term time only) between 10am and noon.
“
What is Solution Focused? Solution-focused is a future-focused, goaldirected approach to therapy that highlights the importance of searching for solutions rather than focusing on problems Date: Thursday’s 10am-12pm Starting Thursday 6th June 2019 for 5 weeks Where: FBS, 5 Chase Side Crescent, Enfield EN2 0JA Cost: Funded by the Big Lottery. Free to parent/carers The sessions will be delivered by Barbara Sebti. Please contact Ayse Adil to book your place. Spaces are limited to 12 adults: ayse@ familybasedsolutions.org.uk or 02083636262
Quote from a parent Since coming to FBS my relationship with my daughter has healed and we are now able to enjoy each other’s company. Before FBS I felt isolated and scared of my daughter. As a parent, it was very difficult for me to admit that my child was violent towards me behind closed doors. The FBS team were very supportive and my daughter actually enjoyed attending the sessions.
“
• We work with families where there is an ongoing child to parent abuse. Over 75% of the young people we work with have witnessed parent to parent domestic abuse. • We support families recovering from domestic abuse through the NSPCC, Domestic Abuse and Recovering Together programme. • We offer support to schools and services through our ‘Building on strengths and solutions’ programme. • We hold weekly parenting sessions and coffee mornings. • We deliver solution-focused training to professionals and parents.
To advertise email info@cherubsmagazine.com or call 0203 978 7332
Family Based Solutions previously known as PAARS is proud to have been chosen by Cherubs magazine as their chosen charity.
16 Education - Advertising Feature
“It’s not rocket science, it’s personal development” In order for children to achieve their full potential, schools must focus on pupils’ personal development says one North London nursery school. Personal development has become a key focus in education, with school reports detailing children’s social and emotional growth as well as their academic progress, and Ofsted now changing its inspection framework to judge this criterion as a standalone category (from September 2019). From building confidence and independence in pupils to shaping their thought patterns and life skills, schools have an important part to play in developing the world of a young person, which begins in the early years at the independent co-ed school, North Bridge House. From parent-child mornings to lunch dates with the older Key Stage 1 children at the Pre-Prep, North Bridge House Nursery School pupils have a busy social calendar from the moment they join the outstanding school in Hampstead. Building relationships is just the beginning of life at North Bridge House though, where the emphasis is very much on developing the whole child. “Children’s development is holistic, which
means that the progress made in one area will positively impact on other areas,” says Christine McLelland, Headteacher of both North Bridge House Nursery and Pre-Prep Schools. For example, through focused play – ranging from Lego and tower block construction to light box projected puzzles North Bridge House pupils are encouraged to develop their fine motor skills, which in turn progress their handwriting and cognitive skills. By the time children reach Reception, they are often writing independently and last summer, 46% of pupils were performing in the top 4% of the country for literacy. Reading and writing are further developed through speaking and listening activities, which are part and parcel of the musically rich curriculum. “Music is essential to the children’s personal development as it encourages confidence and growth of character,” says Mrs McLelland. As well as their timetabled music lessons, NBH Nursery pupils enjoy music and movement classes with Finchley Ballet School, drama workshops with the Unicorn Theatre and optional, extra-curricular LAMDA (The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) lessons.
“A child’s development is very much a personal journey; children develop at different rates and learn in different ways, particularly in the early years of education, when curiosity can often and more naturally be sparked outside the classroom,” explains Mrs McLelland. As such, outdoor learning, school trips and extra-curricular activities are fundamental to child development and academic progress at North Bridge House Nursery. Themes such as Wild Science Week see pupils making the most of the school’s two-tier playground, or nearby Hampstead Heath and Regent’s Park. Trips to the local fire station, country farms and Science Museum all help to develop knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviour that can be utilised in and outside the classroom. Instead of limiting the curriculum and pupils’ personal development by preparing them for often stressful 4+ or 7+ assessment, North Bridge House ensures children have time for creative learning and the development of practical thinking skills. “Personal development is vital in the Early Years of education in order for children to achieve their full academic potential,” concludes Head of North Bridge House Nursery School, Christine McLelland.
North Bridge House Nursery, Pre-Prep & Prep Schools
Knowing the individual, realising their potential.
Age: 2–1 years3
Now accepting September 2020 applications for Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School entry. admissionsenquiries@northbridgehouse.com 020 7428 1520
North Bridge House Nursery School, NW3 • Pre-Prep School, NW3 • Prep School, NW1
18 Education
Stormont School Celebrates 75 Years in Potters Bar In June this year Stormont celebrates its 75th birthday and we are super excited to invite old Stormont girls and staff back to celebrate with current pupils and staff. Stormont started in the grounds of Queenswood School but had to relocate in 1944 when buildings were needed for boarders. It opened its doors for over 50 day pupils on its present site in Potters Bar, Hertfordshire. Stormont now educates girls from the age of 4 to 11 and has special links with its brother school, Lochinver House. The school is vibrant and from the outside is deceptive in what it offers. The school is centred on a beautiful Victorian villa which has many of its original features, surrounded by a full size sunken sports hall opened by Beth Tweddle, the Millennium music and IT building with its own studio and teaching rooms, and the stables courtyard where our
Art and DT are taught in their own designated areas together with Science, French and a purpose-built Library. Add to that the one and a half acres which include a playground with climbing apparatus and two floodlit courts for netball and tennis, tree lined paths and driveways that approach the school, and the 3 acre field which is used daily for sport and play. If you haven’t thought about a girls’ school for your daughter yet or you’re not sure about all girls’ education, come and see what we can offer your daughter. It is proven that girls learn much better in an all girls’ environment, there are none of the distractions of a mixed school, the girls are focussed and can express themselves without reservation or embarrassment. We have wonderful links with Queenswood and other senior schools. Our current Year 6 girls have been offered sporting and academic scholarships at St Alban’s High, St Edmund’s College, Queenswood and Haileybury.
Education at Stormont is about the whole child and our curriculum provides a broad learning experience giving the girls confidence to be their best and be challenged at the same time. Interested? Call the School Office to arrange a visit, we’d love to meet you. Did you attend Stormont School? Do you know someone who attended however long ago? Get in touch via email, 75years@ stormontschool.org and let us know about your time at the school. You are invited to visit us on Friday, 21st June for the annual SOGS (Stormont Old Girls Society) rounders match at 4.30pm followed by refreshments and tours between 5.30pm and 7.00pm. We’d love to see you. The Causeway, Potters Bar EN6 5HA 01707 654037 www.stormontschool.org
BROOMFIELD SCHOOL
A school for our community
thinking about secondary school options for september 2020? Come and visit us to see what Broomfield can offer your child as they embark on their next step to Secondary School
OPEN EVENING tuesday 8th october 6pm to 8.30pm
OPEN MORNINGS Thursday's - 23rd May, 27th June and 11th July, 26th Sept, 17th and 31st Oct 2019 at 9.15am
Head's Talks at 6.15pm and 8pm
#bepartofoursuccess www.broomfield.enfield.sch.uk broomfieldschool Enfield
@broomfieldsch
Wilmer Way, Southgate, N14 7HY
20 Education
School Daze to School Days By Aimee Hart
Being a parent AND a teacher is difficult. I had always assumed that having this profession behind me would enable a smooth transition to parenthood. I was wrong. ‘The book of parenting’ is written by a completely different author to that of ‘The book of teaching’. However, over the past four and a half years (since my darling daughter has grown, changed and become a fully-fledged school goer) I have begun to write a new book. A book that combines the two, which I will share with you now in the hope that it will help develop a confidence and a comfort when your child reaches nursery or school age.
Chapter 1 Confidence for the Child Starting at school or nursery for the first time can be daunting and sometimes stressful for children. Below are some tips I’ve known to
work as a teacher and that I currently do with my daughter:
• The main thing is to reassure your child
that you WILL be coming back and give an incentive for the end of the day. Describe something they will do when they come home. This can be as exciting as having meatballs for dinner or a quick trip to the park or simply to play their favourite game.
• Allow the child to see how happy you are
for them to be there. They sense anxiety and feed on it. If there is something concerning you, pull the teacher aside out of the reach of tiny senses (eyes and ears mainly, although they will probably have something in their mouth too).
• Give them the boost of maturity that they need. Ok, the first few days/ maybe a week, you will enter their classroom domain and
help with their endless accessories. After a week, allow them to be ‘grown up’, ‘big boy’ or ‘just like mummy’ when they organise themselves. This will be harder for you, I know, but it helps them to feel like it is their own space.
• Ensure they know you and the teacher are
singing from the same hymn sheet (even though at times you might not agree) they need to know you are a team.
involved before action is taken; or simply, no one saw and things can get heated. But be comforted by the fact that everything is logged, even if only in the teachers’ minds.
• Go
easy on yourself. School is not a battle or competition. Children all learn and develop at their own rates. During preschool and nursery girls develop a lot faster and engage in social games more openly. However toward the end of infant school boys have already caught up showing off academic and physical talents. If you have genuine concerns about the development of your child then speak privately to the teacher. Chances are they are already aware and have strategies in place to encourage your child in different ways.
Chapter 3 Together be Confident
Confidence for the Parent Allowing someone else to care for, teach, enable and praise your child can be overwhelming. The likelihood is they will see your child for longer than you over the course of a working week. This can be a hard pill to swallow. Here are some things that can allow you to walk away with a spring in your step:
• Take
the time to get to know your child’s teacher: The truth is they work bloody hard! Long hours, mountains of paperwork, endless meetings, barely any breaks, four sips of cold tea, 300 sticky fingers demanding attention. But, I can guarantee that they care. A whole lot. I would go as far as to say that most teachers view their class of children as THEIR children. I know I do. Knowing this will help you feel confident with the person in charge of your offspring so take a little time to find out about them.
• Teamwork
with the school. This is something a lot of parents find hard. I can understand this now being a parent but trust me it is worth it. When something happens at school or nursery, something you don’t like, something that has upset your child you naturally go into ‘savage’ mode. The key is to listen. If the situation hasn’t been dealt with the way you think it should there is usually a reason. Either, the story was told differently at the time; staff wanted to discuss it with all members
1.
Get a blank piece of paper and get them to draw themselves at the bottom.
2.
Discuss and list the things they are anxious about. It may be making new friends, wearing a uniform or being away from you. Note them down around the image, showing they have been heard.
3.
Next, discuss some solutions together, draw on your experiences from school and record them in a different colour (drawing little images will help younger children). Some anxieties may not have concrete solutions and they need to be aware of this.
4.
Then take a third colour, this one is important, ask your child to list positive traits about themselves. This can be as a simple as being smiley, friendly or even good at sports or art. Allow them to see that even though we have worries, we have things we will be bringing to school that others will want to learn. Allow children to understand that anxieties are real but we can support them in finding solutions.
@hart_at_home www.myevelynandme.com
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Chapter 2
If you are keen to have this discussion with your child then below is a creative way to approach it. This is a really nice activity to do with your child and something I have done with my class at the start of a new year. It will allow them to confide their anxieties and excitements but also build their personal confidence and may even surprise you!
“Teachers who love teaching teach children who love learning.” There has never been a quote that is so accurate about children in school. Having started Evelyn at full time school nursery, it is clear that she is ready to learn, ready to be independent and ready grow. Not all children will have this feeling straight away. Don’t feel disheartened if your child is the one who cries, who won’t sit still or doesn’t quite know how to make friends. This is what school is for. This is why children attend. The teachers are qualified to ensure your children learn and sometimes that begins with helping them adjust to this new way of life.
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The modern day child is already more developed than we think and they are aware of issues and excitements that occur at school. Take the time to listen to their concerns, no matter how small, and let them know they have been heard.
Complete this activity again at the end of the year, looking back at the previous one, so the child can see that their anxieties were overcome and their talents will have increased. It will also enable to child to see that anxiety will come, go and change, so they need to build their own bank of solutions. Self-confidence is built from within and although we, as teachers and parents, are there to allow children to have experiences, we cannot guarantee they will see it for themselves. These tips and activities will hopefully allow them to discover their confidence and for you to continue your pride.
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Health & Wellbeing
Mama’s Little Instinct
When Cassie (@mamas_little_squares) came face to face with a terrifying experience, she thanked the universe that she had completed a baby and child first aid training course and was prepared for what was happening in a split second.
This was my experience with Chester, my youngest. A very energetic and spirited 19-month-old that had become quiet, sleepy and in need of all my love. Chester and his older brother had both been suffering from croup and on one particular evening, I noticed Chester was very hot and very restless. I made the decision based on my instincts to set up our spare room and spend the night in with him. Chester became especially agitated around 3:40 am and I noticed him twitching. I pulled back the cover and immediately knew what was happening; he was having a febrile seizure. His little body was curled up, tense and convulsing. His head tilted back, his eyes had rolled into the back of his head and he was making a gurgling noise as the fluid in his mouth, hit his throat. Utterly terrifying. Fortunately, when I was expecting my first son, I went to Baby and Child First Aid Training and to my amazement, the information regarding a febrile seizure came flooding back. I knew that the seizure was due a spike in
After about one minute, he stopped moving, his eyes were still rolled back, he was still gurgling but now he was floppy. I carried him to my husband, explained what had happened and we called 111. Quite quickly we were asked to wake him up and after several attempts, he was still unresponsive. It was at this point I became terrified. The operator told me an ambulance was on its way and two minutes later, three wonderful paramedics appeared in my spare room; calm, kind and reassuring. By now, I had moved Chester into the recovery position, removed his vest and he had shown more responsive signs. The heart that had been pounding through my chest was now gently beginning to slow and my boy was breathing normally again. I packed a bag and we went to the hospital by ambulance (my eldest son was gutted to have missed out on this adventure) where Chester was monitored for several hours.
After speaking to two consultant paediatricians, both said the same; although a febrile seizure is very common and almost all children make a full recovery, Parents believe their child is dying. This is the horrifying truth. It is also so vital to share that this febrile seizure, although extremely distressing, was brief and Chester was up watching Frozen and raiding the hospital biscuit tin hours later. I am eternally grateful to my younger self for taking that training, without it I know my experience would have left me traumatised. The intrusive memories of that evening will stay with me and I have been mindful of the importance to share this experience; not only to help raise some awareness but to heal some of the emotional after-effects that leave darkness and fear around future illness with my sons. My learning for the future is to continue to trust my gut and if ever we face this moment again, to call 999 immediately. Follow Cassie on Instagram with her honest blog - @mamas_little_squares
What’s covered in our classes? What to do in an emergency and when to get help
• CPR & recovery positions
• Choking • Meningitis • Anaphylaxis • Burns
• Head injuries • Febrile seizures • Fractures • Poison • Bleeding and bandaging Book a venue class or private home class today at www.daisyfirstaid.com
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‘A mother’s instinct’ is a phrase bounced around as soon as parenthood begins, we are attuned to our babies and can sense when something feels ‘off ’. Ordinarily, that might be the restless night followed by ‘oh they must be teething’ or the extra cuddly baby ‘going through a developmental leap’ however, there are times when something more unexplainable grips a mother and the need to be close to their vulnerable tot becomes overwhelming.
Chester’s temperature (over 38 degrees) and that I needed to attempt to time it, while gently reassuring him and moving all blankets/pillows out of his way.
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We hear Cassie’s story and hope it will trigger you to book onto this all-important training course.
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Tips On How To Help Curb Your Cravings
Craving a particular food can be overwhelming. Such a powerful sensation, in fact, that very few of us can resist it. The desire is so intense that it can seem uncontrollable, believing that we need to satisfy that craving to make it go away. Every person experiences cravings differently. Some experts believe they last only about three to five minutes, others say around 20 minutes. Research shows that women tend to go for the fat/sweet combinations like chocolate or cake. Men, on the other hand, usually prefer foods involving salt/fat combinations. Whichever way you look at it, cravings are usually junk or fast food and
are unfortunately often the ones that are detrimental to healthy eating or weight loss intentions. Carbohydrates and sugars can be especially hard to resist because they release serotonin in the brain. This is a chemical that has a wide variety of functions in the human body. It is sometimes called the happy chemical because it makes us feel fuzzy, warm and happy. So, why do we get cravings? According to studies, food cravings are caused by the areas of the brain that are responsible for memory, pleasure, and reward. An imbalance of hormones can cause food
cravings, or they can be due to endorphins (happy hormones) that are released into the body after someone has eaten, which mirrors an addiction. Feelings and emotions may also play a part in causing a food craving, especially if a person comfort eats. Pregnant women can experience powerful cravings, which may be due to hormonal changes disrupting their taste and smell receptors. There is also some evidence to suggest that there is a connection between cravings and nutrients, stating that our bodies crave certain food because it lacks those specific nutrients. To be honest, I wouldn’t agree with that notion entirely. For some, it may just be the perfect excuse to keep eating the wrong foods.
Cravings can be selective or non-selective. Selective cravings are cravings for specific foods, which, for example, may be your favourite chocolate or crisps. Non-selective cravings, meaning you just want to eat anything and everything. Women often get this increase in appetite just before or during a period. The hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle can make you feel ravenous, and the mood changes that sometimes accompany your period might lead you to crave certain foods. Now that Easter is well and truly over, and you’re hopefully no longer surrounded by copious amounts of chocolate, this is a good time to combat your cravings. Here are some great tips:
1
Reduce stress levels – feeling stressed is not only dangerous to our general health, but it may also promote emotional eating and cravings for comfort foods. Studies suggest that women who are stressed are more prone to cravings for sugar.
2
Lack of sleep – not getting enough sleep could alter the body’s hormonal balance. Studies suggest that this can contribute to overeating and weight gain. From experience, clients who have trouble sleeping also find it difficult to lose weight.
5
Protein – protein can make you feel fuller for longer, therefore keeping cravings at bay. Higher protein intake can ultimately help with weight loss by boosting your metabolism and burning more calories.
6
Chewing gum – believe it or not, this can help stave off those snack cravings by keeping your mouth busy and your mind off food.
7
Brush your teeth – yes, this works too! It’s a great way to signal your brain to stop eating. For those who are trying to lose weight, brushing your teeth to stop hunger pangs and cravings is sound advice.
8
Distance yourself from food or change the scenery – some cravings are caused by habits. For example, if you buy a Snickers bar and a can of coke every morning as you pass the sweet shop, you’re reinforcing that craving, and you may even consider this an addiction. Chocolate isn’t addictive by the way, and by labelling it so, you may be giving yourself a good excuse to
overeat. The simplest solution would be to take a different route. You’ll have no choice but to eliminate the temptation. When you’re at home if you sense a craving, distance yourself from food as quickly as possible. Go for a walk in the garden or down the road or do some housework. Dare I suggest a short workout might help? Do anything to distract yourself for as long as it takes for the craving to subside. This is obvious, but make sure that your fridge and cupboards don’t contain any of your craved foods.
9
Be aware of how and what you eat – at what times of the month, if you’re female, or when during the day, do you get cravings? What foods do you crave? Gathering information and possibly keeping a log will make it easier for you to understand the triggers. Sometimes, it may be better to satisfy the craving with a small portion of whatever it is that you fancy, as completely avoiding the food could lead to overeating or misery. If you’re more likely to binge eat, then, of course, it’s best to do whatever you can to avoid the craving altogether.
10
Planning is key – taking time to create a healthy shopping list which includes good quality, wholesome snacks is a fundamental and helpful tool to help curb those cravings. So, if you are suddenly overwhelmed by a sweet craving, you’ll have a healthy option to hand.
3
Drink plenty of water – dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger and can heighten cravings, especially for sugary foods. Drinking water should help reduce cravings, as well as flushing out toxins from the body and alleviating bloating. Aim to drink 8 glasses of water per day.
Here are some of the most common cravings and their healthier alternative.
which contains antioxidants. The intensity of dark chocolate makes it easier to feel satisfied with less, so one square or segment at a time is plenty.
be helpful for counteracting cravings when you’re out and about. I find that one Medjool date works brilliantly as its sweetness is so intense.
Crisps: replace these with salty popcorn.
Cake: sugar cravings can be easily satisfied with fresh fruit. Keeping dried fruits, such as prunes or raisins, on hand may also
Fizzy drinks: sparkling water with a drop of fruit juice or a slice of lemon or orange can do the trick.
Chocolate: replace this with raw chocolate
WITH MARY HUCKLE Mary Huckle is a personal trainer and Pilates instructor from Enfield, North London and is the founder/owner of Breakthrough Fitness. She is married with three children. Her passion for anything health and fitness related has been a lifelong affair. After working in finance for many years she eventually changed her career path in 2003 when she left the world of finance to retrain as a fitness instructor and personal trainer at the YMCA. She is also qualified in prenatal, postnatal and children’s fitness. www.breakthroughfitness.co.uk Instagram @maryhuckle Facebook @breakthroughfitness1
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Don’t starve yourself – when you skip a meal, you are more likely to experience cravings simply because you will become extremely hungry. This means reaching for anything and everything remotely edible. If you know this happens to you, then it’s better to eat something filling in the first place.
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It’s important to remember that stress alone may also cause weight gain, without the extra food cravings. It produces the cortisol hormone, which undoubtedly will hinder any desired weight loss, as well as promoting belly fat.
4
David Lloyd Clubs are for the whole family! By Stefani Castiglione
Our DL kid’s team deliver Holiday Club at every half term, plus six weeks of the summer holidays too! You can choose from half or full days with an added option of early drop off and late collection. These action packed fun filled days include a range of themed activities from Sports, games and arts to keep the children entertained all day! All-stars tennis and swim lessons delivered by our tennis and swim professionals will be included in some of the days.
To keep your children well nourished throughout the day, breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks from our DLicious café is also included. Book now for the Summer Holidays starting on 24 th July till the 6 th September! To offer even greater value for money take advantage of our discounted Offer on booking a 3 day week. The children have a great time in our sessions and we enjoy seeing them return again for more fun!
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THIS IS WHAT THE PARENTS HAVE TO SAY...
I wanted to say thank you! for all the support you and your team have given Vinayak during his time at the DL kids holiday club, all the staff and team were amazing. Vinayak had a great time and made lots of new friends, I would really recommend the holiday club to parents for their children during school holidays.
My two girls love DL kid’s holiday club. As a parent I like the mix of craft and range of games and sporting activities. We have been using the holiday club since Amelia was 5. My girls said they like it because they play fun games and make new friends. - Claire Marlow and her daughters
- Minal Patel
My son really enjoys attending DL Kids Holiday Club, the activities are varied and the staff are friendly and enthusiastic. The half term club is good value for money. - Mrs Gaskell
DL Kids club has been a godsend for us. Ella loves it and I love the balance she gets between sports and crafts all day and everyday. They have been incredible dealing with her allergies and I have complete peace of mind knowing that she is fully cared for. They can also accommodate the 8-6pm for working parents. - Mum to Ella Shah age 7yrs
Keep your kids active this summer with tennis, swimming, team games, crafts & plenty of fun For kids aged 5-13. Full or half days available
Eat Happy Feel Good WITH CHRISTIANNA
Health & Wellbeing
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This is what happens when two of the Cherubs team get together. Our healthy food columnist Christianna and makeup artist Elena spent the morning playing with gold paint & makeup and talking food. This fabulous photo was the result. And incase you were wondering... yes, they did eat the bread and grapes! Follow her journey and get more of her delicious, healthy recipes @eathappyfeelgood
Kiddo Feedo Snack Tray
Banana Porridge
Snack trays are a great way to serve kids and always gets a happy reaction from my littles. We filled our green Kiddo Feedo tray with lots of fruit and veg, some seeds for those healthy fats and a treat! We all have treats regularly and I want to teach my children that it’s ok to eat some foods just because they’re fun or taste good and make us smile. As long as most of our food is nutritious there is always room for treats.
• • • • • • • • • • •
Berry Nice Ice Lollies Who doesn’t love an ice lolly in summer? We do, and these are one of our favourite versions.
Ingredients • Berries!
This couldn’t be simpler. Take whatever berries you like, blitz them, pour into ice lolly moulds and freeze. If you want them a little sweeter you could add a little agave syrup or honey, which is yummy too.
Same ingredients, two ways for some breakfast inspiration. Porridge is one of the healthiest, easiest and yummiest breakfast you can have and a favourite in our home. But sometimes even the five minutes it takes to make porridge are five minutes you just don’t have in the morning or maybe you just don’t fancy it. These bananaoat cookies give you all the goodness of porridge in a cookie. Could breakfast be any easier? And they’re vegan, gluten free, dairy free and absolutely delicious... think banana cake!
Ingredients
2 medium ripe bananas 1/8 cup almond butter (peanut also works) 3 tbsp maple syrup 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla 1/2 cup ground almonds 1 1/2 cup gluten-free jumbo oats 1/4 cup almond milk 1/3 cup raisins 1/3 cup chopped walnuts Pinch of salt
Method
• In a large bowl mash the bananas. Add the almond butter and maple syrup and mix well. • Add the cinnamon, salt, vanilla, almonds, oats and milk and mix untill well combined. • Stir through the raisins and walnuts. • Let the mixture sit for 10 mins while you preheat your oven to 180C. • Shape into 12 thick patties and bake for 12-15 minutes. • Let them cool completely. Enjoy!
Healthy Coleslaw Summer means BBQs and for us that means... coleslaw. It’s a salad, a condiment, the perfect side and this version is light and refreshing but still creamy and everything you’d want from a coleslaw. To make it even lighter you could use fat free Greek yoghurt and light mayonnaise.
Ingredients
Method
• In a large bowl mix together the cabbage and carrots. • In a smaller bowl mix together the yoghurt, mayo, mustard, salt and lemon. Mix well... I find hands work best for this stage. Taste and add more salt / lemon if needed.
Ingredients • • • • • • • •
Rice noodles (cooked as per pack instructions) Toasted sesame oil Bean sprouts, blanched Mangetouts, blanched Raw unsalted cashew nuts Raw carrots, shredded Edamame beans, deforested Baby corn, blanched
Method
• Prepare the rice noodles as per pack instructions. • Dress with a little toasted sesame oil to prevent them from sticking together. • Bring a large pan of water to the boil. When water is bubbling add the mangetouts, baby corn, and baby corn. Cook for one to two minutes, depending on how crunchy you like your vegetables, drain and rinse with cold water to stop them cooking further. • Shred or grate the carrots and make sure the edamame is fully deforested. • If you want to, cut the baby corn into pieces. • Toast your cashews by placing in a dry pan and moving them around till golden. • Add the nuts and vegetables to the noodles and mix all the ingredients well. This is your basic salad done.
Extra Ingredients
• Mummy’s salad: added fresh chillies, sesame seeds, fresh coriander and a dressing of toasted sesame oil, tamari and lime juice • Kids salad: sweet chilli dressing
Veggie Loaded Tuna Wraps & Picnic Dinner Serving my kids their meals as a picnic is something we do lots of over summer. They find it so much fun and it’s really easy to do! Veggie loaded tuna wraps, veggies with hummus and fruit makes a tasty and nourishing meal my kids really enjoy. They both love these wraps and it’s a great way to get more veggies into them. To make the mix I used 2 cans tuna in brine, drained, 1 large can sweetcorn drained, 1 large grated carrot, 1 large handful baby spinach finely chopped and just enough mayonnaise to bind it together. A little salt for seasoning and it’s ready. Also yummy as a sandwich filling, on a jacket potato, with pasta added to it to make a pasta salad, over lettuce and cucumber to make a tuna salad.
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I have always tried to serve my children the same food I cook for myself and my husband. When they were babies I would leave out the salt and use less spice but generally speaking they have always eaten what we eat. That being said... they’re children. They’re not supposed to enjoy the same things we do as adults. Think back to when you were a child.. did you enjoy some of the things you love now? Probably not. That being said, with a few easy and simple changes you can still cook one meal for the whole family, taking everyone’s preferences into account and this Thai salad is the perfect example.
1/4 red cabbage finely shredded 1/4 white cabbage finely shredded 2 large carrots, grated 3 tablespoons Greek yoghurt 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Pinch of salt Squeeze of lemon juice
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Mummy & Me Thai Salad.
• • • • • • • •
30 Health & Wellbeing
10 Things I Wish I’d Known About Potty Training By Donna Jackson Most parents are keen to get their little one out of nappies, but potty training is a daunting task for both the potty trainer and potty trainee. It’s a milestone with no set rules so go into it with an open mind and a lot of patience. Six weeks after my daughter Olivia was born, my son Finley aged two and four months announced he didn’t want to wear his nappies anymore and he wanted to use the toilet. Previously, I had read every pottytraining book out there but nothing could prepare me for what to really expect. Here are ten things I wish I’d known about potty training that the books don’t tell you.
1. Bribery
No matter how much you dress it up, the only way is bribery. Reward charts, chocolate, the entire floor of Hamleys, use whatever tactics you need and feel no guilt.
2. Regression
Potty training regression is real. The key to potty regression is to carry on encouraging them to use the potty or the toilet as you did before. It will soon pass, which leads me
About Donna Jackson
nicely to my next point.
3. Do not leave your tot alone
In the early days, accidents are bound to happen, so be available to assist your child when they need to use the toilet.
4. The pooping area
Never forget your child’s favourite pooping area. In the early stages of potty training or regression, you may find that your little one may retreat to their favourite space to use the toilet. So just be mindful and maybe keep your potty nearby.
5. The poo face
Never forget your child’s poo face. It may be the only thing that gets you through this milestone.
6. Time
Asking your tot every two minutes if they need the toilet will just irritate them. Why not, take them to the toilet with you or trust them to tell you. You may find that your little one has a facial expression they pull when they need to use the toilet or may start hopping from leg to leg. These are the signs
to look out for when they need to use the loo.
7. Never leave home without a portable potty Leaving the house while you’re potty training can be daunting, but having a foldable travel potty or seat with you wherever you go can do loads to relieve your worries about possible out-and-about toilet accidents.
8. Change of clothes
Never leave home without 263,674 changes of clothes
9. Nappy bags
Never leave home without something to put those wet clothes in. Nappy bag anyone?!
10. Poo talk
Well actually, talking about your potty training days is all you will talk about until the whole saga is over. The End... thankfully!
Donna is a mother of two and a digital marketing consultant and freelance writer. The Curious Mummy is an inspirational lifestyle blog centered around Family. Moments are captured and thoughts are shared, from the clothes we wear, to the activities we experience and the milestones we face. Bringing together family, motherhood, career, style, food and travel under one blog. @thecuriousmummy
Yoga also promotes emotional growth and psychological strength. The practice actively encourages a deeper selfawareness and cultivates empathy. This boosts selfesteem and a confident individual will be more inclined to explore social experiences. All sounding very positive for classroom learning, group inclusion and even the supermarket trip.
How yoga helped James
Living with Autism
I first met James Keane and his mum Marianne when teaching yoga at the Treehouse special school in Muswell Hill, London.
By Cathy Underwood
We arrive at the checkout and there’s a commotion. At first I’m frustrated at the delay but then I notice there’s a young family ahead of us struggling to calm their child. She looks about 13 years old, has ear defenders on
the enormous challenge these tasks pose for the autistic child with complex needs. Commonly social situations coupled with sensory overload issues, aversion to sounds, lights and commands, can prove just too overwhelming for them.
Exasperated, the family abandons their groceries and make for the exit. The father is clearly very distressed and as he leaves he shouts out “Alright, alright we’re going! It’s not her fault, she’s autistic!”
Yoga as a sensory intervention strategy
There’s an embarrassed silence and I wonder how many are regretting their words and thoughts? I look at my boys and think of all the simple daily tasks we take for granted. Getting out of bed, brushing teeth, getting dressed, eating breakfast, driving to the shops, stepping into a busy supermarket. I then think about
Try this gentle squeeze and release technique to soothe and regulate sensory overload 1. Cradle your child’s hands and with your thumb gently massage the seat of the palm.
About Cathy Underwood
Not every child living with autism will experience extreme escalations but anxiety is a common characteristic. Yoga is an effective sensory intervention tool that, with regular practice, can help our young people self regulate during challenging situations. Gentle postures, breathing exercises and massage techniques assist in their sensory processing and help soothe their nervous system activating calming hormones.
During our yoga sessions, we’ve explored postures to help his fine motor skills, balancing postures to boost his sensory system and sound therapy to improve his focus. He’s a real whizz at the tree pose (balancing on one leg) and will happily play the Tibetan singing bowl that we use for meditation. A keen yoga practitioner herself, Marianne is convinced that yoga has offered James a place of calm in his life and is a tonic during stressful times. She’d love to see more acceptance and understanding of autism by the wider community. Much like the family in the supermarket, she also feels the sting of people’s comments and opinions. Marianne says: “It would be great if people saw beyond the behavior and were more empathic. James is just like any other young adult of his age. He simply wants to go out, explore and be happy.”
2. Use both hands to gently squeeze up the length of each arm to the shoulder. 3. Do the same on the feet, squeezing gently up to the knee. 4. Cupping your hands, gently press and release about the head. 5. Ask them to roll onto their tummy and apply gentle pressure on their back, either side of the spine.
Cathy is a busy mum of two and the founder of the award-winning Yoga4mums and IMTYoga, specialising in somatic provision for autism and special needs. She has senior teacher trainer status recognised by the Yoga Professional Alliance UK and recently became one of the first Female Founder Ambassadors for the UK, championing women in business. Find out more: visit www.yoga4mums.com/imtyoga
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I’m in the supermarket with my two teenage boys. It’s Saturday and the place is packed. There’s a sense of urgency as we hurry about collecting groceries and piling them into the shopping trolley. I bark orders to my boys: “Ok,Tyler, you get the bread and milk. Corben, you’re in-charge of the cereal.” I shake my head regretfully as he grins back in delight. Sure enough, he returns arms loaded with the sort of sugary coated cereals I would never normally agree to but at this point I want to get the shopping done and go home.
and her hands are covering her eyes. Her behaviour is beginning to escalate and she starts to scream. Everyone is looking. Some are even judging “Why can’t they control their child?”, “They shouldn’t be in here”, “Id have put a stop to that!”
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Sensory processing disorders
The wonderful James
James is 17 years old and living with global developmental delays and complex autism. He is non-verbal but communicates very well using a proloqou2go app on his iPad.
Lifestyle
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Lifestyle
Summer glow with Elena @els_makeup_box
Summer is upon us and there are a lot of beautiful things about this season. Long, warm evenings, sea with sangria and of course a frantic rush to keep our legs hair free. However, don’t let make up be a burden in the heat! I have put together my top six iconic make up products along with tips and tricks to use throughout the blistering summer period.
Chanel Soleil Cream This lightweight gel bronzer leave the skin with a sunkissed look. Wear on its own to enhance the complexion.
$50.00
Violet Grey www.violetgrey.com
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Lancôme Hypnôse Waterproof Mascara This mascara intensifies your lashes up to six times thicker. The brush separates every hair, while the creamy formula keeps lashes looking supple.
£25.50
Lancôme www.lancome.co.uk
£26.00
Mac www.maccosmetics.co.uk
Elemis Kefir Spray Mist Refresh your skin with this formula that can be used as a toner, primer, setting spray and refreshing facial mist. Contains aloe vera and coconut water to hydrate the skin. £26.00 Elemis www.elemis.com
Iconic London Illuminator Drops Who doesn’t love a stunning glow? Glide the luxurious fluid over the high points of the face and body for the ultimate summer glow.
£30.00
Iconic www.iconiclondoninc.com
Like with all make up products, I advise to use products that are suitable for your skin type.
To advertise email info@cherubsmagazine.com or call 0203 978 7332
Mac Cosmetics Face Body Foundation A lightweight fluid that is moisturising and longlasting. Glides onto the face and body.
To Dad Lifestyle
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By Sevim Safer
Growing up I’m not sure we took Father’s Day seriously. My dad wasn’t one who acknowledged these sorts of days, in fact, if we presented him with a card and gift on Fathering Sunday, he would be confused and say it wasn’t his birthday till September. Don’t get me wrong, he lapped up the cuddles and the new bottle of aftershave that he would spray 46 times in the space of one minute. Dad was a man that didn’t think these commercialised days were important, “waste of money” he would say. What mattered to him was respect, acknowledgment and most importantly family meal times. Sunday breakfast was like a holy day in my household, if you weren’t down by 10am making toast, you were in trouble – serious trouble. To be fair, our whole lives revolved around meal times. Sitting around the kitchen table was where we had our laughs, debates, tears, confessions. A table, where as a strong unit of four we would gather and share whatever was on our minds. Mind you, often it didn’t end well, that was the beauty of it. Now when I look back, the heated debates and the escalation of particular topics were like rockets taking off. Sometimes those rockets would keep going up and up until they disappeared, other times they would go to the moon then land safely back on Earth. I can laugh about it now, what beautiful memories. If you asked my dad to describe his idea of
the perfect Father’s Day gift. He more than likely would have said “seeing my family sitting around the table eating steak and chatting”, he would have preferred that over any bottle of aftershave. Because of this, I guess we took the actual day for granted. It just seemed like every other day and there wasn’t anything ‘special’ planned. Should we have planned more? Did he realise how much he actually meant to us?
Dad was our umbrella. He shielded us from the big wide world whatever the weather. It’s been seven years since his passing and as the day that we never took seriously fast approaches, my longing for him to be here, telling us not to spend our money on material things, advising us to invest into property instead of holidays gets harder and harder. Hearing my full name screamed from downstairs to get up and lay the table was something I would roll my eyes over and mumble a few censored words under my breath… now, that’s all I
wish to hear. The realisation that I won’t ever write ‘To Dad’ on a card again, eats me up every day. Only when I became a parent myself did I finally get what he was trying to say. It’s now loud and clear. Of course, it makes sense to buy a house instead of going to Las Vegas. Of course, sitting as a family to eat a meal is incredibly important – when else is there time to communicate? Yes Dad, it makes sense to me now to have a stable job instead of being a wanna-be actress prancing around Europe. Every word I couldn’t be bothered to listen to are now what I’m reciting in my everyday conversations. Time is definitely not a healer, who came up with that phrase? Time allows you to realise that the friends posting pictures on social media on Father’s Day are not doing it to rub in your face, they’re simply acknowledging their own world’s best father. I asked people around me why their father was or is the ‘world’s best’ and I received answers like… “He gives great advice.” “His dinners are the best.” “Always slips a £50 note when you’re knee deep in minus.” “Finds a solution to everything.” “Protects you from danger.” “Picks you up at 3am.” “Comforts you after a breakup.” The list could go on…
is looking down with those sparkly eyes that told a million tales, proud. Proud of a family that he built, that he was the King of and that will continue speaking his name proudly for the rest of their lives.
Days that you took for granted are now so heightened, it’s like a black cloud approaching you from a distance. I thank the universe that I now have my husband to concentrate on, all the things I believe I should have done with my own I now do with my little family. Bizarrely, the best part of the day is always around a table doing what we do best... eating.
For those spoiling their loved ones on this special day, make memories that in the future will be your stories. Most of all, be thankful. I thank my stars that I had my own world’s best father for the 27 years that he was in my life.
How do you write about a man that was the perfect father? It’s hard, let me tell you. There aren’t enough pages nor enough words that could do him justice. According to my children, he lives on the moon – a perfect location for a legend to watch over us all and steer us in the right direction. Wherever he is, I pray that he
I miss you every second of every day.
Wishing all my readers a happy Father’s Day. Whether you’re a mum stepping in for a dad, a step dad, a foster dad or someone who’s like a dad… you’re all wonderful.
Our umbrella may have gone down, but in our hearts it remains up forever.
Loving you always
Sevim x
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People are being kind and well-meaning when they text you those all-important words “I’m thinking of you today.” But for me, remembering dad is not just about Father’s Day. When I watch my children playing and growing up, knowing that he’s missed everything… are you thinking of me? When I watch Turkish television of an evening, something I loathed as a child yet now watch endless hours of programmes to keep his spirit alive… Are you thinking of me? When as a family we sit around the kitchen table and look to the corner where he would sit, wishing he was there… are you thinking of me? Those few words on one day of the year, no matter how well intentioned, cannot take the grief away. Yet, what would anyone say instead? Whoever invented the emoji, needs a pat on the back. Sometimes a simple heart is enough.
No one can have everything, that would be the perfect world – which we certainly don’t live in. What I’m going through on Father’s Day another person is going through on Mother’s Day. I remember vividly the year before I lost him sitting on Valentine’s day with both parents around me longing to be with that someone special, by the next year I had met that someone yet lost the biggest love of my life.
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My answer to this question is simple. Dad was our umbrella. He shielded us from the big wide world whatever the weather. He done a very good job of protecting us all, looking after us, advising us, but most of all giving us the strength we hold today. He was our first love, still is.
FATHERS DAY 16 JUNE 2019
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“You are looking amazing today!” Who doesn’t like to get a compliment like this? But we all know that compliments are not everything. You can and should feel happy in your own skin/body so you can show the world your best side! You feel that physical features are holding you back from being confident and happy with yourself? We might be able to help with that even though
we’re sure you’re beautiful just the way you are. If you want to change the things that healthy nutrition and a gym membership won’t be able to change, let us give you a hand. We feel that everybody should have the opportunity to protect or even enhance their appearance if they so wish.
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Summertime
Vibes WITH ANTONIA
Antonia Sanchez-Toomey is the founder of Tinker Tailor, lifestyle store and online destination www.tinkertailor.online. For daily inspiration follow her Instagram: @tinkertailoronline
Summer wardrobe sorted! Nail summer trends with this Boho skirt Multi-stripe Tiered Midi Skirt This absolute beauty of a dress will see you through every event this summer from a day at the races to your best friend’s wedding. Cotton/silk mix from the pattern geniuses at Rixo Monet – Blue Leopard Daisy Rixo www.rixo.co.uk
Warehouse www.warehouse.co.uk Don’t be nervous about wearing this absolutely scrumptious suit, yes the 80’s vibes are strong but so is the glam factor. It comes in nude too if you aren’t feeling the candy pink. Cotton-Rich Double Breasted Blazer
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Nothing says summer like seashells but keep it simple with a little nod to the ocean in the form of chic shell hoops.
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42 Lifestyle
Happy 1st Birthday!
If you haven’t already figured it out – Cherubs turned one this Summer! We thought it would be the perfect opportunity to put faces and names together. This team is made up of down to earth, kind-hearted beings who want the best for each other. Each of them have extremely successful businesses, families and a calendar full of taxiing small people around the place. Somehow, among their busy lives they find the time and energy to support my magazine and make it what it is today. So it is with great pride that I introduce you to the Cherubs Team. *please note there are some absences.
Top row left to right
Elena - Makeup column @els_makeup_box, Karen – blogger @n4mummy, Christianna – Healthy food columnist @eathappyfeelgood, Aimee – Blogger @hart_at_home, Antonia – Style Editor @tinkertailoronline, Eda – Travel specialist @eda_travelcounsellor, Stevie – Cake artist @steviespantry, Nese – Blogger @freshnesh_, Cathy – Yoga and Movement Therapist @yoga4mums.
Bottom row left to right
Mary - Health and Fitness Editor @maryhuckle, Jason - Lifestyle/Dad Blogger @my1440.life Sevim - Publisher and Editor @twobabiesonepram, Chris - Designer @chriswebbdesigns.
Special thanks to Milana Events for the decor @milanaevents, Balloon Bar Parties for the gorgeous balloons @balloonbarparties and the wonderful Richie & team from Chi Chi’s Coffee & Waffle House for housing our special event @chichiscoffeeandwaffle. Photography by Feriha Kemal @feri.photography
Antonia always has a smile on her face!
A whole years worth of Cherubs magazines – proud moment.
Stevie
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Sevim and Elena celebrate with a hug
Sevim having a heart-to-heart with her dedicated bloggers. Karen
Jason, Mary and Nese catching up on life Jason
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It’s all giggles and fun with Christianna and Eda.
STEVIE’S PANTRY
Rainbow Cake
PA N T R Y
Photo credit: Jenny Duce
Stevie’s Pantry offers bespoke cakes, french macarons, biscuits and healthy treats. As a busy mum of three Stevie still finds time to create masterpieces from her very own kitchen and we were surprised to learn that this lovely North London mama taught herself all she needed to know. Follow this yummy mummy to see what amazing creations she produces while juggling mum life. Instagram, Facebook & Youtube @steviespantry
So who doesn’t love a rainbow cake!? It’s such a fun loving, bright, summertime cake and it’s super easy to make.
Step by step...
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Step 1 Make your basic sponge mix. TIP – rainbow cake turns out best if you make a vanilla sponge or any white sponge cake so that you can easily dye the cake mix. Step 2 Once you’ve made your mixture (one basic recipe will be enough for a 4-inch round rainbow cake, double the recipe for a 6-inch round rainbow cake) you will need to weigh out the cake mix equally into six individual pots Step 3 (Pic 1) Once you have your six lots of cake mix all weighed out you can add your dye. The amount of dye you add depends on the brand of colouring, but start with a little dye and mix it in, then add more if you’d like the colour more vibrant. TIP – the cake mix will become a little less vibrant when being baked, so add more dye if you want a really bright cake. Step 4 (Pic 2) Once each lot of mix has been dyed you can begin to bake. Step 5 Pour your mixture into your desired tin(s) and bake. Depending on how many of the same sized tin you have, you may have to bake the first mixture, then turn the cake out, then wash and bake the next lot of cake mix. This may take a while. TIP – cover the remaining cake mixture in cling film so that the mixture doesn’t lose its air or form a crust on the top. Step 6 (Pics 3 & 4) Once the cakes have been baked and have cooled, slice off the top of the cake and make sure each cake is the same height. Step 7 (Pic 5) Prepare your buttercream, split the mixture evenly between the six colours and add each one into its own piping bag. TIP – cut the bottom of the piping bag, you don’t need to use a piping tip, just make sure the holes are roughly the same size.
Step 8 (Pics 6 & 7) Start with one end of the rainbow, and build the cake up with the correct colours in sequence. Put a little bit of buttercream at the base of the cake and add buttercream in between each layer, until you have added all of the layers of cake. Cover the entire cake lightly with buttercream. And chill in the fridge for five minutes. Step 9 (Pics 8 & 9) Pipe each colour round the cake, starting at the bottom, adding about two or three layers of the coloured buttercream, depending on the size of the hole you cut in the piping bag. You’ll be able to estimate the equal amount of coloured buttercream you should add, so that you have roughly the same amount of coloured buttercream going up the cake. Step 10 (Pic 10) This is the fun bit. Use your scraper, or ruler, make sure you have a firm grip on the tool you’re using and it’s flat against the base of the cake. Now slowly, move the scraper around the cake, squashing the buttercream into the cake slightly and pulling off the excess buttercream. You may need to do this two times, and there will probably be some gaps around the cake. Step 11 (Pic 11) Fill in the gaps around the cake with the appropriate colour and re-scrape. Keep doing this until all of the gaps have been filled. Step 12 (Pic 12) Now add any sprinkles you want to the top and bottom of the cake. While the cake is still wet is the best time to add the sprinkles so that they stick well to the cake. TIP – put some sprinkles in your hand and place onto the bottom of the cake, all around the base.
Step 13 (Pic 13) Ta-da! Your rainbow cake should be finished and looking wonderful.
Enjoy your cake!! Message me on my social media pages if you have any questions - also check out my Instagram, Facebook and YouTube channel (Stevies Pantry) for a video on how I made this rainbow cake – then you can put it into practise yourself.
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Tools you will need... • Rainbow-coloured edible dyes. There are a range of these, and my local cake decorating shop – Decorative Supplies on Chase Side, Enfield – have an array of different brands, some very inexpensive. • A tall scraper, alternatively you can use a clean, long ruler. • Weighing scales • Sprinkles of your choice
Top tips...
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You can use this method of making a rainbow cake in any colours you choose. For example, they could be different ombrestyle shades of pink, blue or whatever colour you like.
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Travel
Travel
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Family holidays are the perfect excuse to switch off from the day to day routine and spend some quality time with your children, whilst being able to explore a whole host of new and exciting places. For many, selfcatering holidays are an ideal solution, thanks to the flexibility and space that rental properties can offer a family, but how can you ensure that you truly make the most of your time away? Self-catering experts Lakelovers, outline their top tips for making the most of your self-catering family holiday.
Come prepared UK breaks are a fantastic way to enjoy some time as a family, and ensuring you’re prepared for all eventualities should make your holiday go off without a hitch! By packing clothing and footwear that’s suitable for all weathers, you’re sure to be
able to enjoy an array of activities come rain or shine.
Prepare for Picnics One of the many positives to a self-catering holiday is the dining flexibility. Whether you want to plan your meals ahead, or go with the flow, there’s something for everyone. What better way to enjoy a sunny afternoon than by indulging in a picnic? Not only can picnics act as a great social event for the entire family, they can also be relatively cost effective and fun!
Games Galore If you’re planning a self-catering holiday, you’re going to want to create your own entertainment. Consider bringing along a
range of both indoor and outdoor games, and weather dependent, hold a garden sports day for the ultimate outdoor adventure.
Enjoy the local area Self-catering properties allow you to immerse yourselves in the local culture, whether it’s through heading to local markets, sampling the local cuisine or simply chatting to the locals. By involving yourself in the community, your family will have the opportunity to live like a local for the duration of your stay. For more information on self-catering holidays in the Lake District, head to www.lakelovers.co.uk For booking enquiries: 015394 88855
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Top tips for making the most of your selfcatering holiday
Real-life Disney destinations you can actually visit Taj Mahal, Agra, India
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2019 is the year when some of Disney’s mostloved animated films literally come to life. Tim Burton’s live-action version of Dumbo has grasped its lucky feather and flown into our lives with real-life remakes of Aladdin and The Lion King set to follow respectively. This multi-billion dollar, live-action project may be a recent trend, but Disney’s enchanted worlds have been more than just drawings on a screen, as many of the locations from these timeless movies are based on actual locations that you can visit in real life. That’s right, the silver screen isn’t your only window into these magical worlds, and we’ve dug out our old VHS cassettes to pick out the real-life Disney destinations that you can visit.
Beauty and the Beast: Alsace, France
Aladdin: Taj Mahal, Agra, India Disney’s original Aladdin from 1992 was set in the fictional city of Agrabah, supposedly close to the River Jordan, but the royal palace (pictured above) from which Princess Jasmine flees bears an uncanny resemblance to a certain mausoleum in India. Place a shot of the Sultan’s Palace alongside that of the Taj Mahal, which stands as one of the New7Wonders of the World on the south bank of the Yamuna river in the Indian city of Agra, and the likeness is hard to deny.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: Alcázar of Segovia, Spain
Building and the snaking Lombard Street, whose eight sharp turns have earned it the title of the most crooked street in the world. Other recognisable locations in the film
include James Lick Middle School – where Riley tears up in front of her class on her first day – and the steep Hyde Street. The hipster pizza joint that only serves broccoli pizza is a parody of Arizmendi Bakery in Emeryville, which also only offers one flavour of pizza daily. There’s even a stair railing in the Russian Hill neighbourhood that could be the very same that Riley briefly considers sliding down.
Cars: U-Drop Inn, Texas, USA
This animated musical romantic fantasy flick from 1991 has already received the live-action treatment, with Emma Watson reprising the role of Belle alongside Downton Abbey’s Dan Stevens as the fearsome yet fragile Beast in 2017. Belle – the opening song in both versions of the movie – shows off an idyllic yet unnamed French village with charming fountains and wooden-frame buildings. The remake was filmed on a closed set at Surrey’s Shepperton Studios, but it was based on Colmar, which sits in the French region of Alsace and undoubtedly bore a big influence on the film’s fictional setting. Barely 20 kilometres from the German border, the town of Colmar packs undeniable charm with its half-timbered houses, canals and the flower-decked town centre – it’s a mustvisit for anyone keen to discover the gentle Alsatian lifestyle
The setting for Disney’s classic retelling of this Brothers Grimm fairy tale isn’t mentioned by name, but many believe that the inspiration for the Evil Queen’s castle came from the Alcázar of Segovia. This Spanish castle – 100 kilometres north-west of Madrid – strikes the same balance of quaint beauty and mystery, surrounded by snowy forests. Its Spanish name translates literally to ‘Segovia Fortress’ and stands as one of the most distinctive castle-palaces in Spain due to its ship bowlike shape. Over the centuries, it has been a royal palace, a state prison, a Royal Artillery College and a military academy. However today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site serves as a museum and military archives building.
It’s no secret that many of the locations in the first Cars film are based on real-world places. Radiator Springs - the film’s primary setting - was inspired by Amboy, California – a town that, like Radiator Springs, suffered a decline in popularity following the opening of an Interstate highway. Elsewhere, the rock formations in the distance of the town heavily resemble Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Then there’s the U-Drop Inn, also in Texas, which bears uncanny similarities in its design to Ramone’s House of Body Art in the movie, most notably its soaring name tower.
Inside Out: San Francisco, USA Much of this 2015 computer animation takes place within the mind of an 11-year-old girl, but some of the film’s key plot points centre around her family’s relocation from Minnesota to San Francisco. Indeed, the film’s title appears overlaying a magnificent backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge, quickly followed by a shot of the San Francisco Ferry
Fancy experiencing some real-life Disney magic for yourself? Contact Eda Ayyildiz Travel Counsellor today and enjoy exclusive access to benefits such as full financial protection and a 24-hour duty office ready to assist you before, during and after your stay.
With the promise that all your holiday plans are in the safest possible hands. Remember how easy it used to be to go on holiday? When someone else took care of everything? At Travel Counsellors we believe this is the only way to sell travel – it’s such a personal thing that everybody deserves their very own personal expert. At Travel Counsellors we’re all about you. So if you’re looking for a holiday to remember, contact me today. Travel, tailor-made for you, with care.
Eda Ayyildiz Travel Counsellor 020 3393 5460 eda.ayyildiz@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.com/eda.ayyildiz
Surviving Summer Travel with Kids
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with Jason Suttie @my1440.life
There are two things that are synonymous with the British summer – rain and travel. Whether you’re going on a day trip or travelling to the other side of the world to escape the rain, at some point you’re going to be stuck in a metal box with windows for what may seem like eternity with your little bundles of joy. Not long after my son Sebastian was born, we started dragging him all over the world. His first trip, at 10 weeks old, was to visit my family in Australia, a 30+ hour journey doorto-door. We booked it when we were in the pre-child denial of ‘How hard can it really be?’. The upside is that we had to just do it and deal with whatever travelling with a child threw at us.
Thankfully the trip was fine, and it didn’t put us off travelling again. Since then we’ve been on short and long-haul flights, driven across Europe and seen parts of the world by train. With every trip we learn something new that makes travelling easier. So here are a few of my tips for surviving summer travel:
Plan, plan and plan Gone are the days where we can throw some clothes in a bag, grab your passport and go somewhere for the weekend. If you haven’t already figured it out, kids suck most of that youthful spontaneity out of life. They force you to plan for things that may or may not happen. Try to embrace this and think about the trip from start to end. Where could something go wrong? What haven’t you thought of? It’ll help remove some uncertainty and give you at least one answer to the million annoying questions. When planning your trip, it’s worth taking into account your kids’ ages and personalities. If you have an active child, plan a drive that has extra stops. If you have a child that needs naps plan your journeys around them. We don’t tend to book package holidays, so when we travel, we book every bit separately. I use tripit.com to put all the details of the holiday in one place. I then carry a printout
of the full itinerary. I store all documents and copies of passports on dropbox.com and they’re synced to my phone, so I can access them without the internet.
Keep time on your side Feeling rushed adds unnecessary stress, so always build extra time into your plans. To be honest, it’s taken us a while to fully appreciate this. For me, the holiday only starts when we arrive at our destination. So, spending more time to do the travel part feels like I’m doing less holidaying. But, allowing extra time means the wife and I are more likely to still be talking and Sebastian isn’t wearing his food where I’ve tried to shovel it into his mouth in time to board the plane because he eats… so… flipping… slowly. Think about extra time for toilet breaks, snack breaks, leg stretches, nappy changes, strops and removing all the luggage from the boot to retrieve the marble that rolled under the back seat.
Divide and conquer When we travel, I’m generally the logistics manager, I take care of bookings, documents, how to get from A to B, liaison with anyone outside of the family, and paying for stuff. My wife is generally in charge of wellbeing. She manages the snacks, entertainment, distractions, toilet breaks and the general mood.
number two turtling. The challenge was not to be too distracting that he lost sight of the end goal and let it slip out. We still talk about our shared parental achievement of holding that potential disaster off. Although I’m not sure how good they are at holding number twos we recently bought some TravelJohns. A TravelJohn is a little bag with a conveniently shaped nozzle that absorbs liquid. Great for child emissions from either end. On our last trip we even got to test it with both.
Bring supplies However you are travelling, and at whatever age your children are, wet-wipes are vital. They can also help you make friends with other parents. Although I’d question the parental abilities of a parent not travelling with wet-wipes. After a few unfortunate experiences we now always keep an extra change of clothes accessible. For everyone. If we’re flying, they’re in our carry-on. If we’re driving, they’re in an easy to access part of the car.
Pack like a pro
Time for ones and twos I don’t know how many times the seatbelt sign has lit up on a plane and it’s immediately followed by “I need a wee!” Take every opportunity to use the toilet. It’s worth the fight to get them to try. We had one occasion where, instead of a wee, Sebastian needed a poo as we started taxiing onto the runway. The plane then stopped, and we were informed that we were being held on the runway. We spent about an hour employing every distraction technique to a four-year-old who had a
We also recently bought some Play Prompts by PlayHooray. These cards have ideas for short games to keep your children amused while travelling. There’s also nothing wrong with letting kids get a little bored. A bit of self-entertainment can bring out all kinds of interesting games, songs and stories.
While we’re sorting out which luggage is coming with us, my dad brain starts mentally packing the boot like a game of Tetris. So when it’s ready to load into the car I know where everything goes. If it’s a long drive making sure things like snacks, changes of clothes and the potty are accessible is super important.
Stay calm and enjoy the journey
Also think about the types of bags you’ve got. As good as it feels to stroll through the airport terminal pulling your wheelie cabin bag, like that scene in Catch Me If You Can, a backpack will leave you with two free hands to drag a kid out of the way of a runaway trolley if you need to.
This sort of goes without saying. But think about how you can make the trip easier for yourself at every stage. You might need to be a little more relaxed about your rules for sanity’s sake. If mealtimes or nap times need to be earlier or later it’s ok, accept that life might be a little different until you get back home.
Keep them entertained Successful travel entertainment is all about how close you can get to the destination before hearing “Are we there yet?”. You’ll have the best idea of what’s going to entertain your child but it’s best to have
Social Interaction
Most of all remember that you’re going on holiday. This is the start of a fun family time away and having a well-planned trip and happy kids means you’re going to enjoy it even more. If things do go wrong take a deep breath and think about how to solve it, after all you’ve factored in the extra time.
What’s your favourite outdoor day trip? Share your images with us @cherubsmagazine and @my1440.life for a special shout out in the next edition!
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Make sure it’s clear who’s doing what and stick to it. If something that’s my responsibility gets moved, all of a sudden, the whole trip has gone to pot because whoever did it gets blamed for everything that goes wrong from that point.
Kindles and iPads are great for a period but for some children there’s a limit on how much they can watch in a car. We’ve heard that the limit can sometimes be indicated by a deep gutteral noise followed by the feeling of your child’s lunch dribbling down the back of your neck. Something we’ve not experienced, yet.
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Snacks and water will also help stop people, my wife included, getting ‘hangry’. Between motorway services and inflight meals fend off the hangries with snacks they like and are happy with.
a range of options. Think about using sandwich bags to contain types of toys.
Summer Activities
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Summer Activities
Top things to do this summer with our favourites! We’ve rounded up our most loved, local #instaparents to bring you the best things to do in your area.
the farm and at the playground next to the farm entrance. Take a selfie with “Pooh at 2.” Free entry but car park fees apply.
HERTFORDSHIRE
Aimee Hart @hart_at_home
Vertigo Adventures Stanborough Park, Stanborough Road, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6DF See Website for specific days First session 11:00, last session 15:00 Enjoy wonderful views across Stanborough Park from your 30ft-high viewpoint. With over 20 challenging elements to master, there’s something for everyone. Tackle the Trapeze Walk, before you soar across the zip – then choose your route. Dare you take on the extreme route with Totem Poles, or play it safer via the Kitten Bridge on the easier route? Either way, this course is set to challenge the brave. Varied tickets starting from £8. Lee Valley Boat Centre Old Nazeing Road, Broxbourne, EN10 6LX Daily 09:15-17:30 (booking essential) With a variety of boats and cruises, Lee Valley provides the perfect action-packed day out for the family. Whether you choose a rowing boat, pedalo or an 8-seater motor boat you will find the adventure down the river! Private hire starts from £9 per boat (see website for further details).
100 Aker Wood Aldenham Country Park Farm, Aldenham Road, Elstree, WD6 3BA Open daily 09:00-16:00 Make the most of the day and explore 100 Aker Wood, the home of Pooh and all his friends. You can play ‘Pooh Sticks’ at Pooh Bridge, get inside Eeyore’s Gloomy Place, post a letter and even make it all the way to the North Pole! Pooh Bear can also be seen at 2pm at the weekends and school holidays on
Harry Potter World Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden, WD25 7LR Daily First tour, 09:30 weekday, 08:30 weekends. Last tour 21:00 Breathtaking sets, authentic props and incredible costumes. Visit the award-winning studio to see the best of Harry Potter. For any family who have enjoyed watching the Harry Potter series then this is a must. Spend the whole day exploring the sets and seeing costumes worn by the actors themselves.
Roald Dahl Museum Great Missenden, Bucks, HP16 0AL Tuesday-Friday 10:00-17:00, Saturday and Sunday 11:00-17:00 Get hands-on in the three galleries, packed with activities perfect for 6 to 12-year-olds and their families. Find out about Roald Dahl’s school pranks, peek into the author’s original writing hut, and discover how Roald Dahl’s real-life adventures inspired his stories. The Museum puts your imagination centre stage to help you and your family create your own swashboggling stories – just as Roald Dahl did. Adults £7, children £4.70, under-5s free.
ENFIELD Kat loves the summer season, especially when there are so many things going on around her. Don’t miss these events showcasing Enfield in full summer swing.
Kat @the_enfield_explorer
Enfield Gin Festival The Old Grain Store, 4 Pymmes Mews, London N13 4PF 29 Jun First session 11:00-16:00, second session 17:00-23:00 Old Bakery Gin has organised a day of celebrating all things gin. Showcasing some of the UK’s finest small-batch artesan distillers, this is a great chance to try, buy and meet the makers. Price TBC. Livestock Festival Forty Hall Farm, Enfield EN2 9HA 27 Jul 12:00-23:00 The Livestock Festival is back and promises to be bigger than ever. Now in its 8th year, this festival is set against the picturesque backdrop of Forty Hall Farm and features three diverse stages of superb music, children activities, food vendors and three bars. It’s known for supporting and promoting local Continued overleaf...
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Hitchin Lavender Fields Calwell Farm, Ickleford, Hitchin, SG5 3UA Monday 27 May onwards 09:30-17:00 Hitchin Lavender provides the perfect family day out! Included in the price of entry you get a pair of scissors and a paper bag to fill with your lavender cuttings. A lovely farm shop and tea rooms ensure you have a great day out! Something we will be doing again this year! Adults £6, Under 14’s £3, under-5s free – all prices include picking.
Hawkswick Lodge Fruit Farm Harpdenden Road, St. Albans, AL3 6JG Jun 2019 See website for daily timings Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blackcurrants and gooseberries galore! Pick your own and enjoy a sunny day ambling around the bushes. The website provides a details calendar of when the fruits are ripe, so be sure to check before you visit. £2.50 minimum spend per person (under-4s free).
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Hertfordshire in the summer offers a wealth of activities to keep the family busy. The summer season is in full swing across the county. Aimee’s top picks for things to do this season range from farm trips to museum outings, something for everyone.
Adult £45, Child (5-15) £37, family ticket £148 (2 adults and 2 children) under-4s are free.
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talent and has an amazing line-up of bands. Children under 12 are free, teens 13-17 £5, early bird tickets are £20, standard advance are £25, on the gate £30, evening pass tickets are £15 and are valid from 7pm. The Winchmore Hill Fancy Fair Winchmore Hill Green, N21 6 Jul 10:00-19:00 The Fancy Fair brings the whole community together for some old-style fun! With hundreds of stalls and attractions, local artists and artisans, classic fairground rides and donkey rides, it promises to be a great day out for the whole family! Free.
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Palmers Green Festival Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4RB 1 Sep 10:00-18:00 This is Palmers Green’s Annual Community Festival, a free event for the whole family, showcasing the best of the area. Free. Jubilation – Celebrating 80 Years Of Jubilee Park Jubilee Park, Galliard Road, Enfield, EN3 9 Jun 11:00-15:00 Fun dog show, police dogs and horses, Enfield Brass Band, football pitch, memories and history of park, Playstreet, Ray and Johnny with their ukuleles, refreshments, health checks and more. Free. Mauritius Open Air Festival Trent Park, Cockfosters Road, Enfield, EN4 0DZ 14 Jul 12:00-20:00 The UK’s largest exhibition about Mauritius and its interesting culture. With great food, live music and entertainment for the whole family, the event represents everything that makes Mauritius the gem of the Indian Ocean. Ticket prices vary with children’s early bird starting at £5, adults £12.50 and family tickets (2 adults, 2 children) £30. Lee Valley Farm Unicorn Weekend Lee Valley Farm, Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey 29-30 Jun 10:00-17:00 Enter the farm’s magical realm and meet a real life unicorn and unicorn princess. Take on flame the dragon and get your face painted to transform into your very own magical creature. £10 per person.
HARINGEY Our ethical yummy mummy can’t wait to stroll around these great activities with her family this summer.
Karen @n4mummy
Summer Weekend Festival Stationers Park, N8 8-9 Jun Sat 10:30-21:30, Sun 11:30-20:00 They’ll be a craft market, food festival, music and dance, open air cinema and lots of children’s activities. Including kids theatre, games and face painting. Free. Crouch End Festival Community Picnic St. Mary’s Church Tower, N8 16 Jun 12:00-17:00 Come along to St. Mary’s Tower for a family picnic with free food, music, bouncy castle, games for kids and lots more. Free. Street Life Alexandra Palace Way, N22 7AY 15-16 Jun, 27-28 Jul, 17 Aug 12:00-late The perfect place to sample street food and craft beer and enjoy some music. Plus there is an excellent children’s play area, skating park and duck pond, so great for all ages. Free. Park Road Lido Park Road Pools and Fitness, Park Road, N8 8JN Mon-Sun 10:00-13:00 & 14:00-17:00 (check website for changes) A huge 50m outdoor pool with children’s paddling pool. On warm sunny days it is advisable to book online as tickets sell out quickly. Also do call ahead to check whether the children’s pool is open as it only opens when the temperature is 22C or more. Phone: 020 8341 3567. Child (under 16) £2.70, adult £6.00. Carter’s Steam Fair Priory Park, Hornsey, N8 7RD 5-7 Jul Fri 14:00-20:00, Sat & Sun 11:00-20:00 Experience the thrills of a bygone era and feast your senses: the rock’n’roll music, sumptuous colours, steam engines, twinkling lights, lilting fairground organ, the aroma of doughnuts, candy floss and coal. A fabulous family day out. Free entry, ride tokens can be booked online or at the fair. Kenwood House Hampstead Lane, Highgate, NW3 7JR Fridays term-time only (check English Heritage website for details) 10:30-11:30 During term time, families with under 5’s can
join in craft making, storytelling and singalongs. It’s also a great place to go for a cup of coffee and/or lunch as there is a lovely outside terrace. Plus a large green space for children to run around. Child £2 (for the story time). Snug Cafe 549 Green Lanes, N8 0RL Mon-Sat 9:00-17:30, Sun 10:00-17:30 A small family run café, that has a safe indoor children’s play area. They cater for vegans and vegetarians and have an affordable children’s menu. Basically, a great place to catch up with friends and to keep little ones entertained. Price: A cup of coffee, though I’d recommend staying for lunch.
HACKNEY, CAMDEN & CENTRAL LONDON Can’t decide which one to go to? Max will be attending all these wonderful events... how can you miss out?
Max @struggleofthejuggle
Potions Afternoon Tea Cutter and Squidge, 20 Brewer Street, Soho, W1F 0SJ Weekdays 12:00-14:0, 15:00-17:00, 18:00-20:00 10:30-11:30 A true Hogwarts style afternoon tea suitable for anyone 8+. Leave the hubbub of the busy London streets behind you as you descend the stairs to the potions room, where you and your potions master will whisk and while away the hours creating your own concoctions. Prices include the class experience and afternoon tea. Child (8-17) £39.50, adult £49.50. Regents Park Treasure Trail Marylebone Road, Marylebone, Greater London, NW1 5LA Summer days 10:00-17:00 Follow in the footsteps of London’s most famous detective along the Murder Mystery Trail in Regents Park. With three trails to choose from, and lots of things to see (plus the chance to win £100), pack your magnifying glass and enjoy some outdoor time with the whole family. £6.99 per trail (4-5 people per trail). Hampstead Summer Festival Hampstead High Street, NW3 1QE Sunday 7 Jul 12:00-17:00 The highly anticipated annual event, consisting of over 150 stalls and attractions, including donkey rides, competitions, street dance and food aplenty! Spend the whole day eating, drinking and enjoying the music, all free thanks to the residents and businesses of Hampstead Village. Free (costs for attractions vary).
Trapeze Flying School Marylebone Road, Marylebone, Greater London, NW1 5LA Apr-Sep Times vary Ever wanted to be part of the circus? Backflip from a height, swing from the sky and somersault to happiness at the Gorilla Trapeze Flying School. Classes are two hours long but you can sign up for as many as you like. Book now to avoid missing out. Child (8-17) £30, adult £30. Buckingham Palace Summer Tour Westminster, London, SW1A 1AA 20 Jul-29 Sep 09:30-17:15 Explore the cavernous Royal Halls, see the changing of the guard and celebrate 200 years since Queen Victoria became a monarch. Visitors come from all over the world, so book to avoid disappointment! You never know, you might get to see Queen Elizabeth herself, walking her corgi! Child (5-17) £13.50, adult £24, under 5’s free.
Notting Hill Carnival Marylebone Road, Marylebone, Greater London, NW1 5LA 26-27 Aug 12:00-late A London summer just wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the capital’s biggest annual festival that’s been going since 1966! The bejewelled dancers, the music floats and of course, the copious amounts of Caribbeanstyle food and drink make for the perfect end to what is sure to be a magnificent summer. Free (food and drink vary).
BARNET Stephanie has all of these summer activities on her ‘to do’ list and can’t wait to share all the fun and adventure with her little family this season.
Stephanie @barnet_mum
Coffee & Crayons Café 161 Ballards Ln, Finchley, London N3 1LJ Mon-Fri 08:00-18:00, Sat-Sun 09:00-18:00 A lovely play cafe with soft play available. Various classes also held. The soft play is opened Monday & Tuesday and costs £3.95 for children up to 12 months and £4.95 for one to four-year-olds. The play area can be used during opening hours, food or drink to be purchased.
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Brent Cross The Beach Brent Cross Shopping Centre, Hendon NW4 3FP 22 Jun - 8 Sep 2019. The beach at Brent Cross offers family the chance of going to the beach in the middle of the city. There is a Pool, sand, deck chairs, rides and food. Entry is £3 per person and under-3s free, Extra for rides.
Belmont Children’s Farm The Ridgeway, London NW7 1QT Daily 8:30-17:00 Great local farm where you can meet many different animals and watch them being feed. There is a tractor which offers a 15-minute ride around the farm area. From £4.
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Children’s Art Week: Drop-in Styrofoam Printing RAF Museum, Grahame Park Way, London NW9 5LL 8 Jun 13:30-15:00 Free, booking required.
High School Musical JR performance The Bull Theatre, 68 High Street, Barnet EN5 5SJ 13 Jul 14:30 & 18:30 Adult £12, under-11s £10.
Summer Activities - Advertising Feature
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The Best Teepee Sleepover in Town Wondering how to keep the kiddies entertained while everyone is sunning themselves on holiday? Muddy Boots Sleepovers provide us with some great advice for the best summer sleepover your kids will ever have. Who needs a beach when you have a teepee tent in your living room?
Pick a theme Whether your little princess loves fairy tales and make believe, or your little prince wants to explore the jungle, when you pick a theme for your party you’ve got the foundations laid down.
Food and Snacks Pizza is an excellent option for a slumber party, as you can order several with different toppings. Have plenty of other finger food snacks that the kids can graze on throughout the night, such as crisps and cut-up fruit and vegetables – unless you want a house full of hyper children, remove the sweets!
Who said they were too old for party bags? Party bags are always a big hit and you can really make all party guests feel special with something personalised. The contents are what the guests take away but also it’s a good idea to fill them with items for the sleepover too. We fill our personalised goodie bags with a toothbrush, fluffy socks, fluffy eye mask and a cute lip balm!
Have some planned
activities
Almost all ages can belt out their favorite tunes with a karaoke machine. Pull out some dance video games so the guests can test their dance skills. If you have a spacious garden, organise a football game before it gets dark. The more they do, the quicker they will fall asleep.
Muddy Boots Sleepovers favourite games to play Cucumber Face Race The girls might love the idea of putting cucumbers on their eyes as a cheap spa treatment but a silly group of girls will love this Cucumber Face Race slumber party game. Get the girls to lie on their beds, put a slice of cucumber (you can use chocolate instead) on each girl’s forehead and see who can get the cucumber down to her mouth first. The catch? No hands allowed! Blindfolded Make-Over Pair the girls up and have them take turns putting make-up on each other. However, the one doing the makeup is blindfolded, so she is not sure what she is using and how well she is doing. Provide plenty of washcloths or make-up remover pads for cleanup. Pull out the camera for this game. www.muddyboots-sleepovers.com Call: 07713140434 Email: hello@muddybootssleepovers.com
Musical Theatre
Summer School & Showcase
STREET DANCE SUMMER SCHOOL
Summer School
Date: Monday 29th July - Friday 2nd August 2019 10.30am - 4.30pm daily Cost: £250 Age Groups: 8-10, 11-13, 14-16 & 17+ Suitable for all levels of ability.
Date: Monday 5th August - Friday 9th August 2019 Cost: £250 Age Groups: 8-10, 11-13, 14-16 & 17+ Suitable for all levels of ability.
020 8351 8839
PINEAPPLEARTS.COM PINEAPPLE PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL
@PINEAPPLEARTS
ADMIN@PINEAPPLEARTS.COM PINEAPPLEARTS
Museums to visit this Summer with Summer Activities
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@milkatthemuseum
Museums are a great place to visit in the summer. They are the perfect place to get away from the midday sun and can also be a lot quieter on a hot summer’s day. Many of them also have fantastic outdoor spaces on their doorsteps. Below are my recommendations of places families should definitely check out this summer.
Tickets for the museum are FREE.
National Army Museum
National Maritime Museum The National Maritime Museum, based in beautiful Greenwich is a great place to head to in the summer. With inspirational stories of exploration and endeavour at sea and packed to the brim with fascinating objects and galleries this is a little haven for the kiddiewinks. Try out the boat simulator, meet Nelson, Columbus and Cook, chat on a ship phone, send messages in morse code and jump in the ocean on their Great Map. They have also got the brilliant Ahoy! Children’s Gallery for 0-7’s which is superb. With the Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark and the Queens House on its doorstep it makes for a super family day out. Not only that it
is right next to Greenwich Park, perfect place for a summer’s day picnic. Their family events are top notch and it’s worth taking the trip there for them alone. Tips if you visit Do not rule out the All Hands children’s gallery, which is aimed at ages six to 12, if you have smaller children. My four and twoyear-old had a great time in there too.
The National Army Museum, situated in Chelsea, explores British Military history from the English Civil War up to the present day and is a bit of a hidden gem for families. Albeit a gritty subject matter, the National Army Museum addresses it perfectly for kids with their family-friendly interactives. It is one of our favourites to take the kiddies to with so many interactives including a tunnel under a tank, dressing up, playing a soldiers drum, marching in a drill, sorting your rations and climbing aboard a tank... and this is just in the galleries. They also have an incredible Play Base area, an immersive experience for ages eight and under, which includes a soft play assault course, climbing aboard an army truck and preparing food in the cookhouse. Family activity backpacks are also on offer for two to seven-year-olds and one for eight-plus and to top it all off they run excellent relevant events throughout the summer holidays.
Tips if you visit Make sure you book Play Base in advance to avoid disappointment on the day and checkout the shop, it’s full of fun, quirky, relevant goodies. Battersea Park is only a 12-minute walk away and has a boating lake and adventure playground. Tickets for the museum are free. Tickets for Play Base cost £4.75 for children aged one to eight. Adults and children under one go free.
V&A museum This museum has plenty of space for little legs to run around in but not that many interactives. They always offer lots of family friendly activities throughout the holidays though and I recommend this one in the summer purely for their splash pool which every kid loves. Be wary though, it may be busy but then you do have the Science, Natural History museums and the Princess Diana Memorial Playground not too far away. Tips if you visit Take plenty of spare clothing, the kids will get wet. Keep your eyes peeled for holiday activities running in the Summer.
Tips if you visit Definitely book in advance for this one, you do not want to miss out on the Mail Rail Ride. Coram Fields is a short walk away if you fancy a bit of outdoor space, a playground or a picnic in the sun.Tickets for general admission (Mail Rail and exhibitions) cost £17.05 for adults, £10.45 for children. Tickets for children to also enter the Sorted! play space cost £11.95. Tickets include unlimited access to their exhibitions for a year.
Museum of Childhood
The Postal Museum
Finishing with one of my absolute favourites, the Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green is one not to miss. It is home to the largest collection of childhood objects in the UK ranging in date from the 1600s to the present day. This museum is just as appealing to nostalgic adults as it is to kids. The galleries are full to the brim with objects children can get their hands on which include rocking horses, building blocks, a sensory area, Lego and a sandpit which is always an absolute winner. There are regular family friendly events in the Summer holidays. Facilities are good and they are currently in the process of having a major redevelopment with its aim to become a world leading museum of design and creativity for children and families. Exciting stuff!
The Postal Museum, near Farringdon station, reveals five centuries of history through the eyes of its iconic postal service. The museum galleries have plenty to keep the little ones entertained with activities such as posting a letter through a vacuum tube, creating a personalised stamp, dressing up as a postie
Tips if you visit You may have to book some of the summer holiday events in advance. They have a small park next door to the museum where you can take a picnic if the sun is out. Tickets are FREE but some holiday activities you may have to pay for.
Tips if you visit Make sure you check out Sailor Town, a recreation of the old docks from the 19th century. The dark, spooky, atmospheric streets are so real you are instantly transported back in time. The Mudlarks Gallery is free but you can book in advance, which I would totally recommend doing in the holidays. Tickets are FREE.
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The Museum of London Docklands, located in Canary Wharf, explores the history of London’s River Thames. The Docklands is a really nice area to stroll around when the sun shines and this museum is fun for all the family. They have recently added a load of child-friendly interactives throughout the galleries, allowing us parents to have a read of the displays too. Yay! Activities for the little ones include building a bridge, 19th century fancy dress, drawing, and shipbuilding to name a few. The Mudlarks Gallery, an interactive space for children up to 8, is superb. You can weigh cargo, tie nautical knots and load a tea clipper while learning museum facts in a fun and stimulating environment. They also have a soft play area for babies and toddlers where they can climb into a boat or drive a DLR train. Family facilities are fantastic with plenty of high chairs, changing facilities, activity bags and word games on offer. To top it all off their regular family events are superb with pirate takeovers, family raves and plenty of workshops throughout the summer holidays.
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Museum of London Docklands
and the Jolly Postman trail. The museum is quite small but that’s what is appealing as it is the perfect size for those little legs. In addition, they have the brilliant Mail Rail Ride which takes you on a 15-minute journey on a miniature train through the original tunnels and station platforms under the streets of London. To really maximise the family appeal, they have the fab Sorted! play area for children up to eight years old, an immersive play space with all things postal to play with including streets, slides, buildings, trolleys, pulleys, and chutes. With familyfriendly events in the summer holidays this museum is a must-see for families.
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Fun for dogs and kids The Pooches & Prams team share with us their top 5 places to visit in North London that are perfect for both dogs & children.
Bear + Wolf Café
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Lunch In The Roebuck Pub, Hampstead
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62 Summer Activities
*P&P TIP* Dogs are not allowed into the playroom because of hygiene reasons so make sure you go with someone to help you keep an eye on your pooch while you are in there with your little one.
A Family Visit To Lee Valley Park Farm
We’ve walked in most of North London’s parks and ‘Ally Pally’ has to be one of our favourites to spend our summer days. The parking is nice and easy (boring we know, but it’s all about parenting logistics) and with its panoramic views and stunning 19th century building, this is the perfect place for a summer picnic with the whole family. *P&P TIP* There are lots of steps down from the palace to the grounds, so if you have a pram make sure you park near one of the ramps.
5 A stone’s throw from Hampstead Heath this pub is great for a post or pre dog walk. The pub itself is a little dark inside but the courtyard is idyllic with flowery sun loungers and cute little arbours with booth seating. A very stylish and well-decorated pub and fairly secure for the kids to run around in. They have a kids menu, colouring to keep them entertained and of course water for the pooches. *P&P TIP* There are lots of other dog and child-friendly pubs in Hampstead but with our toddlers’ nap time this one works for us as they serve food from 11am (Mon-Sat).
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Coffee & Cake At Bear + Wolf Café, Tufnell Park
It’s very difficult to find a café that has good coffee AND is child and dog friendly – and when we say child friendly we don’t just mean staff being nice to the kids but a play area and a good kid’s menu. Bear + Wolf ticks all these boxes and also includes a huge variety of kids snacks and homemade cakes including vegan/refined sugar-free options. It has a safe environment for them to run around in and even has an enclosed garden space leading from the playroom, which is lovely to sit in and watch the kids have fun.
We all know how much toddlers love animals and there are plenty of these here! There is also a great playground, perfect for burning off all that energy. Dogs are welcome in the farm but must be kept on the lead, which is understandable. A fun-filled day out for all the family. *P&P TIP* Make sure you get there early on weekends and school holidays as it can get busy. Also booking online before you go can often save money.
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A Stroll Through Alexandra Palace
Foodie Fun At Farmers Markets
There are a few farmers markets in North London but our two favourites are; The Sidings market in Winchmore Hill (Sunday’s 9am-2pm) and Forty Hall Farmers Market (once a month over the spring/summer). There are plenty of pooches and children at both and the selection of food stalls is top notch including the Malaysian street food stall at The Sidings, and Holtwhites at Forty Hall which are our chosen favourites. They also sometimes play live music at The Sidings which creates a real fun and lively atmosphere. *P&P TIP* With lots of food around keep an eye on what your dog picks up from the floor, and remember to take water for them with you. @poochesandprams A place that celebrates parents, pooches and little ones - run by mums @milkitmama and @victoriafrend
Illustration Š Quentin Blake 2009. Licensed by HarperCollins Publishers Ltd.
19 - 20 Jul
For ages 6+
020 8292 9222
www.chickenshed.org.uk Registered charity no:1012369
Young Creators is a free professional development programme which offers young people vocational training and practical work experience in a variety of theatre skills. Participants have the opportunity to apply for the Young Creator Trainee programme which consists of more intensive, advanced training alongside Chickenshed practitioners. Young Creators runs annually from September to July for ages 14-25. Find out more by visiting www.chickenshed.org.uk/yc or by contacting Georgina Jacobs on georginaj@chickenshed.org.uk | 020 8216 2744 Registered charity no: 1012369
Summer Fun with The Grandparent Hub With the summer holidays soon upon us, we have been looking at how we can keep the grandchildren entertained for the whole six weeks. Days out are lovely, and we love to mix bigger treats with low-cost/ no-cost days out. Here we share some of our favourite ideas…
Local Parks
What better thing to do on a summer’s day then head down to your local park. You and the grandchildren can enjoy all the space on offer and many parks these days have plenty of activities including the usual slides and swings, with lots also offering splash areas etc. Why not play nature detectives and see what bugs and trees you can identify? And don’t forget to take a picnic, skipping rope and ball with you.
Library
Garden Activities
Outdoor space is great for your little ones. They can run around and let off steam but having a few activities up your sleeves will also help. Den-building is a must, you can use whatever you have around – some sheets over a table or chairs can work well. Another fun one for the little ones is a teddy bear’s picnic. If the weather is good, why not turn the sprinklers on and let the grandchildren run around and get wet. If you don’t have sprinklers paddling pools can be purchased at a reasonable cost but we must say, don’t leave your grandchild in the garden alone if there is
a paddling pool out there. You can also fill up some washing up tubs with bubbly water and let them splash around – why not blow some bubbles too?
Places To Go
If you are looking to go further a field then do some investigating to find out what’s on. There are a number of places to go which are free including farms such as Deen City Farm in Wimbledon and museums like the National History Museum and National Gallery and many websites, including www.thegrandparenthub.com, showcase offers for other paid for attractions. If you are a member of the National Trust, English Heritage or the RHS, the summer is a great time to put your membership to use and you’ll find many family-focused activities taking place. However you choose to spend your time this summer, we hope you have fun making memories with your grandchildren.
www.thegrandparenthub.com
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Why not check out what’s happening at your local library. Each year most libraries run the Summer Reading Challenge
which encourages your grandchildren to pick up a book over the summer holidays. Even the little ones can join in with your help. Find out more at the Summer Reading Challenge website: https://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/. Many libraries also run a variety of other activities including story time and sing-alongs, so take a look at the local timetable.
Special offer for Cherubs Magazine readers The Grandparent Hub is a free website full of stories, ideas and information. They also have Grandparent Hub+, the UK’s first membership service exclusively for grandparents, where you will receive: • A FREE 12-month tastecard+ worth £104.98.
• • • •
Giving you 50% off the food bill in over 6,500 restaurants, 40% off 350 cinema locations and much more. Fantastic Grandparent Hub+ offers from the UK’s leading brands. Exclusive Grandparent Hub+ competitions. Discounts and access to amazing days out in the UK. Access to our Book Club.
All for only £39.99 a year! And, as a Cherubs magazine reader you will receive 10% off the annual price when you subscribe by 31 August 2019 and quote GPHCHERUBS19. To find out more about membership and the terms & conditions visit: www.thegrandparenthub. com/grandparent-hub-membership
Summer Reads
Recommended by Pickled Pepper Books Pickled Pepper Books is a specialist interactive children’s bookshop located in Crouch End, North London. Pop in to meet an author, experience some theatre, join a workshop or for a great book recommendation! journey to the Natural History Museum. Join our feisty heroine Eliza Jane, who has her heart firmly set on a prehistoric pet, on a marvellous magical tour of their local dinosaur department store. The rich, vivid art is sure to appeal to toddlers and young children and the witty rhyming text will transform grown ups into champion storytellers.
Ottie The Elephant 6 months-3 years
not easy managing the needs of penguins when there’s a heatwave on and a huge ice shortage!
The Storm Keeper’s Island 8-14 years
Hotel Flamingo: Holiday Heatwave
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4-9 years
This lovely new interactive first story incorporates all your toddler’s favourite interactive elements in one board book. Follow Ottie on a colourful, fun adventure around town, lift the flaps to see what’s inside her basket, make funny faces in the mirrored page, and touch the soft felt of Ottie’s house. This is sure to be a favourite read with both you and your little one!
Dinosaur Dept. Store 2-5 years
If you have a dinosaur-loving child this is the perfect picture book to share on a
This is an enchanting series featuring the adventures of Anna and her array of animal friends. Alex Milway’s text and illustrations throughout work for younger children wanting a longer story, or for children starting to establish themselves as readers. In this second book Anna needs help to get Hotel Flamingo back to its usual shining self in time for her busy summer. She’s excited to receive word from King Penguin royalty asking to holiday in their Royal Suite. But it’s
This is a fantastically magical read for older children and young teens. Catherine Boyle’s lyrical writing combines Irish folklore, fantasy and characters from the modern day with great effect. When Fionn sets foot on Arranmore Island, it begins to stir beneath his feet. The time has come for Fionn’s grandfather, a secretive and eccentric old man, to step down as the island’s Storm Keeper. But as the battle to become the island’s next champion rages, a more sinister magic is waking up, intent on rekindling an ancient war. This is sure to keep your keen readers entertained on holiday!
www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk | 10 Middle Lane, Crouch End, London N8 8PL | 020 3632 0823
Editors top reads for the beach bag! Somebody I Used to Know
Searching for Sylvie Lee
Somebody I Used to Know is both a heart-rending tribute to the woman Wendy Mitchell once was, and a brave affirmation of the woman dementia has seen her become.
A deeply moving story of family, secrets, identity, and longing, Searching for Sylvie Lee is both a gripping page-turner and a sensitive portrait of an immigrant family.
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