Families NW London Magazine issue 127 Mar April 2019

IN THIS ISSUE

Party Planning Guide Education Parenting Easter and Summer Camps & Activities!

Issue 127 March/April 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

Welcome to the March/April issue!

IN THIS ISSUE: 3. News 8. School Open Days

CONTACT US: Families North West London Magazine Editors: Heather Waddington and Janine Mergler P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF T: 01923 237 004 E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk Listings and Features Editor: Anna Blackshaw E: Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

10. Spring Cleaning with Kids

www.facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon @FamiliesNWLon Readership of over 60,000 local parents, carers and teachers every issue.

Published seven times a year. For families from birth to twelve.

UPCOMING ISSUE: May/June 2019 - Summer Camps and Activities Planning! Deadline: 1 April 2019

12-13.Party Planning 16-21. What’s On 22. Easter and Summer Camps

Cover image: depositphotos.com

Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.

Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com. Other images have been supplied by independent sources.

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Where is Families North West London?

Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west.

You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know.

2 Families North West London

11. Mummy on the Edge

Families North West London Magazine is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families NW London Magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families North West London Magazine. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families North West London Magazine, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

familiesonline.co.uk

New Self Empowerment Drama School opens in Wembley!

NEWS

Young A-Listers is live in Wembley!

The first of its kind incorporating Personal Development, Drama and filmmaking. The school is run by actor Samuell Benta (Power Rangers Operation Overdrive, Eastenders E20) with the purpose to educate, inform, teach and heal with acting and self-empowerment. The idea of the school is to transform children’s lives and strengthen them, making them performers with strong integrity and knowledge of TV and film business. The school deals with ages 9-17yrs with plans in the making for younger and older students. “I want to provide the youth with what I wasn’t given at school, I want to give them information that can literally save them years of trial and error and wasted time. Young A-Listers teaches them that they can be an A-lister in their own movie called ‘life’ and success is all a mindset.” – Samuell Benta. www.YoungAListers.com

Celebrate Peppa Pig’s 15th anniversary with Save the Children’s Muddy Puddle Walk Fundraiser Last year families and nurseries that took part in the event helped to raise an incredible £225,000 for Save the Children’s vital work and since its launch in 2017, Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children has generated a fundraising total of almost half a million pounds. This year the event is sponsored by The Entertainer (TheToyShop.com) and, to celebrate Save the Children’s centenary in 2019, the charity hopes that even more people will sign up, take part and donate. Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children will be taking place from 13th – 19th May 2019.

Sign up your nursery or family now at www.MuddyPuddleWalk.org to receive your free Fundraising Pack

familiesonline.co.uk

On ‘Yer Bike (or scooter or just walk!) for The Big Pedal 2019 Families across London are being invited to take up the Big Pedal 2019 – the UK’s largest cycling, walking and scooting challenge for schools.

Organised by the walking and cycling charity Sustrans, the competition will run from Monday 25 March to Friday 5 April and will encourage young people from across the UK to travel by bike, foot or scooter for their journey to and from school. During the 10 days, participating primary and secondary schools will compete with one another to make the most journeys by bike, foot or scooter. The Big Pedal 2019 is open to individual classes as well as whole schools, with hundreds of thousands of pupils expected to take part. Schools and classes will be entered into daily prize draws for rewards, including scooters, if more than 15% of a school cycle, walk or scoot on each day of the challenge.

Ask your child’s school to sign up to Sustrans Big Pedal 2019.

For more information visit www.bigpedal.org.uk

Families North West London 3

NEWS Ditch the Chicken Dippers!

Cooking classes for Parents with La Cucina Caldesi Cookery School Families Magazine was invited to try out one of La Cucina Caldesi Cookery School’s new Italian cooking courses - ‘Cooking for Parents’ held at their Marylebone location in Central London.

A very hands-on, relaxed and friendly class, the course was designed for all skill levels. We had fun squeezing the last drop of moisture out of the spinach, laughed as we bashed the chicken breasts flat with a pan and smiled as we added the maybe-a-little-too-much brandy in our apples.

It’s a course designed to let parents and kids appreciate fresh ingredients, be amazed by the vibrant colours of food, explore different flavours and enjoy getting into the kitchen and having fun. As Katie said, we can ditch the chicken dippers and start to appreciate real, fresh, healthy food that kids and adults alike will enjoy eating.

La Cucina Caldesi Cookery School hold a wide variety of classes and corporate events in Marylebone in Central London, Bray in Berkshire and Gerrards Cross in Buckinghamshire. http://caldesi.com/la-cucina-caldesi/

Places available for Year 6 and Year 7 to start Sept 2019 at unique west London school The Sylvia Young Theatre School is a specialist performing arts school offering excellent vocational and academic education for boys and girls (Year 6 - Year 11) with a much valued family atmosphere.

Students can start in Year 6. The intake is small with an emphasis on individual attention. It is a great introduction for children who have an interest in drama, singing or dance. As the majority of students change schools in Year 7, Year 6 gives students a rare opportunity to ensure that this is what they really want before continuing their studies in Year 7.

Sylvia Young says “In spite of a three-day academic programme (plus two day vocational) students are still able to achieve academically, (our 2018 GCSE results were excellent) whilst following professional opportunities.

Currently Billy aged eleven appears in the new Feature Film “Blinded by the Light” which will be released in the UK later this year and Harriet, also eleven years will appear in Tom Hooper’s film adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Cats”, four of our students are members of “Kidz Bop”, while others have lead roles in David Walliam’s “The Midnight Gang”, “Killing Eve, and the “Four O’Clock Club”.

Other students appear at the RSC, National Theatre, Matilda, School of Rock, Annie etc. However successful our students are - we aim to keep their feet firmly on the ground.” www.syts.co.uk

Local ‘Rapunzel’ is going for a ‘Chop for Charity’ and needs your support!

Help Local School Children Break a Guinness World Record!

To celebrate Shakespeare’s birthday on April 23rd, the Henrietta Barnett School is attempting to set a Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous Shakespeare recital.

Ruby, a local year 7 pupil at Parmiter’s School in Watford, is 12 and has never cut her hair - it kept growing and growing until her nick-name permanently became Rapunzel!

Once it had reached her lower back and people started commenting on the fact that she had never cut it, it gave her the idea of using it to raise money for charity. She found the Little Princess Trust who make real hair wigs free of charge for children and young people that have sadly lost their own hair due to cancer treatment and other illnesses. Her quest began to grow her hair long enough to donate 13” to make a full wig.

Ruby has been personally aware of cancer from a young age as it has taken both her grandfathers and most recently her uncle and she feels this is her opportunity to help in a very special way.

She is asking for others to help achieve her goal by donating money to the charity toward the cost of making the wig. Ruby hopes to help restore a bit of confidence and happiness for these young people who have already gone through so much. www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ruby-rodriguez; www.littleprincesses.org.uk

4 Families North West London

They are looking for judges to witness and validate the attempt.

Email skay@hbschool.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

NEWS Environmental charity Hubbub encourages local community groups to run ‘Street Store’ events to reduce textile waste With approximately 300,000 tonnes of clothing ending up in landfill annually, environmental charity Hubbub has launched ‘Street Store’, a new initiative to help combat the issue by reducing textile waste in.

Developed by Hubbub, and funded by North London Waste Authority (NLWA) under the Waste Prevention Community Fund, Street Store is a community clothes swap which encourages people to update their or their children’s wardrobe for free by bringing along pre-loved high-quality clothing to swap. A typical Street Store will have a simple clothes rail allowing people to bring along their highquality pre-loved clothes, hang them up, and take something else in return, with all swaps based on trust. People will also be able to pick up tips on how to care for clothing so that favourite pieces can be enjoyed for longer.

The initiative was successfully trialled in two North London locations in 2018 and now Hubbub is encouraging other local community groups, businesses, schools and charities to run their own Street Store events to help benefit their local communities and prevent clothes going to waste. The charity has produced a simple how-to guide which contains information on everything needed to set up a Street Store event: those interested in launching one can download the guide at www.hubbub.org.uk/ run-your-own-street-store.

Street Store has been designed by Hubbub to be as flexible and accessible as possible. It can be a one-off event or longer-term community fixture and no experience is needed to set one up. While Street Store can take place anywhere, it works best in locations where members of the public regularly meet up in the community such as; schools, libraries, cafés, community spaces and local businesses.

Organisers can choose whether to run a general event for the whole community, a kids’ clothesspecific swap or a swap for a particular item e.g. Halloween or Christmas clothes. www.hubbub.org.uk/run-your-own-street-store.

familiesonline.co.uk

Volunteer opportunity with local mentoring charity Promise Foundation is a mentoring charity based in NW London. The charity deploys the resources of the community to provide young people from disadvantaged backgrounds with a mentoring relationship that unlocks their unique potential.

Our mentors assist with broadening horizons, work experience, developing and acquiring life skills.

We are looking for mentors to help meet our increasing demand.

Please contact our Project Coordinator Khadija Zaim on: khadija@thepromisefoundation.org.uk 07913 126055 www.thepromisefoundation.org.uk. ‘

Families North West London 5

Education Advertorial

A Head’s reflections on school’s mathematical prowess having won first place in an Ealing Schools’ Maths Challenge

I

never excelled in mathematics whilst at school; this engendered in me, a strong admiration for those who did. As a Head, I was keen to explore ways in which mathematics was relevant to the children in a way that was accessible to all, was exciting, was fun and in a way that built confidence.

We are fortunate in the independent sector, to have small class sizes and to be able to work with a manageable size of pupils that results in productive attention to all. The catchment area of our school is, in addition, an oasis tucked away in west London that bursts with an abundance of family life that is ambitious and aspires for the best for their children, beyond and above any socio-economic stereotype. As such, in Ealing, we are blessed with exceptional independent and maintained schools.

The selection of highly qualified staff together with an inspiring and imaginative curriculum is the essence without which a bright and shining star cannot glow. All children are stars and all children have the potential to glow. Our choice of mathematics scheme five years ago was spurred from a critical appraisal of what was available to primary schools in the UK at that time. We were keen to find a scheme that was practical and that enabled children of all abilities to make good progress, supporting the less mathematical ones of us and stretching the most able. We embraced the Singapore Maths scheme and began an intensive training programme for our teaching and non-teaching staff. The rest is history.

The top and most highly selective schools in our local area, were invited to a Maths Challenge run by DCBeagle, aimed at testing skill and speed; mostly problem solving based, the challenge sets to test the ‘inquisitive mind’. Six of ‘the best’ schools in Ealing from both the independent and maintained sector, accepted our invitation and the two-hour long challenge took place on 6th February 2019.

It was an event that reached out to our local community and brimming with anticipation and excitement, we welcomed our neighbouring schools to Harvington, and revelled in the opportunity to bring together children of the same age to mingle and to share in their passion for mathematical problem solving.

Children were arranged in pairs and each school had up to 5 groups that represented them. The challenge was to complete the problems one by one and to swiftly present the answers to the markers on stage, who were the teachers from the schools present. As each problem was solved, the children returned to their seats and progressed to the next one, with the object of completing as many as possible, during a given period of time.

And all at once, mathematics became a joy; a puzzle to be solved; an urgent collaboration of young minds; an energetic quest amidst the most electric exuberance that was 11-year-old children with a purpose.

What was overwhelming to behold, was the outstanding participation of absolutely everyone and to that end, it is almost a pity to have ‘winners and not winners’, but of course that was the essence of the magic on the day!

My reflections on our success are many and touch upon the oldest debates in education, providing evidence for discussions such as, gender stereotypes, differentiation (Singapore Maths does not promote differentiation), competition, small classes/ small schools, I could go on. But for now, our school community celebrates; our school community is proud; and our winners glow, heads bowed with humility, quietly bursting at the seams.

Anna Evans is the Headmistress at Harvington Prep School in Ealing, West London. www.harvingtonschool.com

6 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

Call us to arrange an individual appointment

familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 7

Education Please check school websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days. Listings are subject to change.

Aldenham School Elstree WD6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs (Boarding/Day) enquiries@aldenham.com

Open Day: Jun 2019 (date TBC). Prep School 01923 851664. Senior School 01923 858122

Alpha Preparatory School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs. www.alpha.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: By appointment 0208 427 1471

Buckingham Prep School Pinner HA5 Boys School 4-11 years www.buckprep.org

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 2737.

Charlotte House Prep School Rickmansworth WD3 Girls 3-11 yrs www.charlottehouseprepschool.co.uk

Open Day: Thu 7 & Sat 9 Mar, 10-11.30am. 01923 772101

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Elstree WD6 Boys 5-18 yrs. www.habsboys.org.uk

Open Day: Sat 5 Oct, 1-4pm. 020 8266 1700

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School Elstree WD6 Girls 4-18 yrs. www.habsgirls.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8266 2302 email ldevine@ habsgirls.org.uk

Haberdashers’ Adams, Newport, TF10 7BD. Boys 11-18 yrs (boarding) Girls 6th form. www.adamsgs.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 01952 953810

High Elms Manor School Watford WD25, Boys and Girls 6 months – 11 years. www.highelmsmanorschool.com

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 681103

The John Lyon School Harrow on the Hill HA2. Boys 11-18 yrs. www.johnlyon.org

Open Day: Tue 18 Jun, 5-7pm; Sat 21 Sep, 9.30am-12pm. 020 8515 9400

Krishna Avanti Primary School Edgware HA8. Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs.www. avanti.org.uk/kapsharrow

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8381 3344

Longwood School and Nursery Bushey WD23 Boys and Girls 3 mths – 11yrs. www.longwoodschool.co.uk

Open Day: Every day is Open Day, just call to book a tour.

01923 253715

Merchant Taylor’s Prep Rickmansworth WD3 Boys 4-13. Northwood HA6 Boys 11-18yrs www.mtpn.org.uk www.mtsn.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 825648 (Prep) 01923 845514 (Senior)

North London Collegiate School Edgware HA8 Girls 4-18yrs. www.nlcs.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 8 Mar, Wed 13 Mar, both 1.30-3.45pm (11+). Jun Sch 020 8952 1276, Sen Sch 020 8951 6481/6468.

Northwood College Northwood HA6. Girls 3-18 yrs. www.northwoodcollege.gdst.net

Open Day: Wed 3 Jul, 9.30-11am (Early Yrs & Jun Sch) Mon 1 Jul, 9.30-11am (Sen Sch); Sat 5 Oct, 1-4pm (whole sch) 01923 825446.

North London Grammar School London NW9 Boys & Girls 11-18 yrs. www.northlondongrammar.com

Open Day: By appointment. 0208 205 0052

Orley Farm Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 Boys and Girls 4-13yr www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: Sat 11 May, 10am. 020 8869 7634/7600

Quainton Hall School Harrow, HA1. Boys 2.5-13yrs, Girls 2.5-11 yrs. www. quaintonhall.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. admin@quaintonhall.org.uk 020 8861 8861

Reddiford School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9months – 11 yrs. www.reddiford.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 0660

Roxeth Mead School HA2 Boys & Girls 3months-7yrs. www.roxethmead.com

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092

The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3 – Ruspini House Pre School (boys and girls aged 2-4) Cadogan House Pre-Prep and Prep Department (girls aged 4-11), Senior School (girls aged 11-18)

Open Day: Sun 6 Oct. 01923 725354

St John’s CofE Primary School Watford WD17 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.watfordstjohns.org

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 255 017

St Helen’s College Hillingdon UB10 Boys & Girls 2-11 yrs www.sthelenscollege.com

Open Day: By appointment 01895 234 371

St Helen’s School Northwood HA6 Girls 3-18 yrs www.sthelens.london

Open Day: Thu 13 Jun, 9.30am-12pm; Sat 21 Sep, 9.30am-12.30pm.

01923 843230

St Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs. www.sthildasbushey.com

Open Day: By appointment. 0208 950 1751

St John’s School Northwood HA6 Boys aged 3-13. www.st-johns.org.uk

Open Day: Wed 22 May, 9.15am. 020 8866 0067

St. Margaret’s School Bushey WD23 Girls 4-18 yrs (boarding/day) www.stmargaretsbushey.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8901 0872

St. Martin’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 3-13 yrs www.stmartins.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 26 Apr, Sat 27 Apr, all 10am-12pm.

01923 825 740

York House Rickmansworth WD3. Boys and Girls 3-13 yrs www.york-house.com

Open Day: Sat 18 May, 9.30am-12pm. 01923 772 395

8 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

Why children misbehave

and how to handle it

By Kristina Bill, Joy Marchese and Jane Nelsenr

H

uman beings are fundamentally social beings. Our primary goals are to belong (connection) and to have a sense of purpose and contribution (significance). In their pursuit of these goals, it is normal for children to test the waters by misbehaving.

They do so when they are struggling to achieve these goals and feeling discouraged.

When children misbehave and parents feel frazzled, we often resort to quick fixes such as punishment, reward and bribery, because yes, they deliver temporary results. However, many of these approaches do not empower children to find connection, belonging and a sense of purpose and contribution. This leads to a vicious cycle of discouragement and renewed misbehaviour.

To see sustained behavioural change, we need to focus not just on the misbehaviour, but on the belief behind the behaviour – the discouragement our children are experiencing. Then we need to use parenting tools based on encouragement that help our children experience their deep need to belong and feel capable through contribution.

■ Building Confidence and Resilience Here are some strategies that we can use to help our children develop the skills they need to pursue their goals.

■ Connection before Correction Brain research has shown that children do better when they feel better.

This does not mean feeling better because they get everything they want. They feel better because they feel connected (belonging) and responsible (significant). Thus it is very important to make a connection with your child before you attempt correction. One of the easiest ways to do this is to validate their feelings.

■ Focus on Solutions Reduce power struggles by focussing on solutions rather than consequences of bad behaviour. Learn to think in terms of problem = solution instead of problem = blame and punishment. It can be effective and empowering to help children explore the consequences of their choices by asking, “What do you think caused that to happen, and what ideas do you have to solve the problem?” This teaches them valuable life skills such as problem-solving, respectful communication, decisionmaking, conflict resolution and negotiating strategies.

Effective parenting means constantly looking for win-win solutions, rather than winning at the expense of your child. Co-operation is the best way to avoid power struggles and feelings of inadequacy in children, reducing your stress in the process.

Jane Nelsen is the founder of the Positive Discipline Methodology programme.

London-based educators Joy Marchese and Kristina Bill worked with Jane to co-author the book Positive Discipline for Today’s Busy (and Overwhelmed) Parent: How to Balance Work, Parenting and Self for Lasting Well Being.

Published by Harmony Books and available from Amazon at £12.99.

■ Validate Feelings “I know you’re upset because you can’t have that toy, but if you save your pocket money, I’m sure you can purchase one soon.” You are connecting by showing understanding and validating your child’s feelings AND you are giving them the opportunity to contribute (earn and save their money) instead of rescuing them and buying something for them.

■ Positive Time Out When your child misbehaves, firstly you need to check in with yourself and make sure you are calm enough to deal compassionately with your child at that time. If you are not, chances are you will react with shortterm strategies. Say to your child that you are upset and need some time by yourself. This models self-regulation, an essential life skill. Ask if it would help him to have some chill time too. To ensure your child understands what you are doing, discuss as a family what happens when we’re stressed – our brains are flooded with stress hormones so we can’t think. Then explain that when one of you is stressed, you can ask for chill out time in a different place in the house that works for each individual.

This Time Out should ALWAYS be a choice and NEVER a punishment.

11+ Mock Tests

SW Consortium

QE Boys subjects

Saturday 6 May 2019 ............................2pm - 4.30pm Saturday 1 June 2019 ...........................2pm - 4.30pm Nascot Wood Junior School, Nascot Wood Road, Watford WD17 4YS

From £27.50 per paper including detailed feedback

BOOK NOW www.mocktestmasters.com FEEDBACK includes:

✔ Detailed report on your child’s strengths and weaknesses ✔ Access to mock test questions and answers ✔ Over 20,000 pupils have taken our tests

familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 9

Parenting

Spring cleaning can set your kids up with the right mindset

By Susie Ramroop

S

pring is around the corner and we naturally begin to want to refresh and declutter. Our physical environment has a direct impact on our mental environment – it can bring clearer thinking, space to be creative, and the ability to feel calm and in control.

When children come along that environment can feel a little out of reach as we recall what our physical space was like before - clear surfaces, things in their place, and, generally, a sense of order.

In case you have been asleep during the Marie Kondo phenomenon (see Netflix if you have), there is a way to connect to your joy through tidying up. Yes really. Here’s how to do it with kids:

Plan to finish The first recommendation is to create a day when you will focus on this decluttering task until it is completed. There is no point creating piles that are never dealt with, and where satisfaction is never realised.

Start small Tackle one key area at a time, and do so in this order: clothes, books, toys, then the rest. This means that you start with collecting together all the clothes in one place. Take an item, one at a time, and see what emotion it generates. If you love it, keep it, if it is too small, but it good condition, put it in the charity pile, if you are indifferent, let it go. You may be left with very few clothes, which is perfectly OK if your child is at school 5 days a week.

Repeat with the other categories

Many parents feel compelled to give up entire weekends to clear their children’s clutter, and often attempt to sneak away belongings that may have generated emotional attachment over the years. I believe this is not only unnecessary, but that we are missing a key teaching that could set our children up for life.

Choose what is in our lives based on how much joy it brings us We don’t have to take this responsibility from our children if they are over the age of 4, we can start to teach them to know the difference between true joy and mediocrity now, so that they are not tempted to settle later in life.

10 Families North West London

I recently did this with my 7-year-old: I didn’t tell her what to let go of, I helped her decide by connecting with how she felt. The things she loved were not even debated. The things she didn’t like were easy too. Those in the middle, she drew an interesting conclusion about, all on her own: “well if I don’t love it, someone else might”.

Exactly. Now a family friend is benefiting from previously adored books and dolls.

Marie Kondo would be proud of her as she thanked her belongings, telling them she loved them before passing that love onto someone else. Magical!

So in summary, there’s only so much stuff you can truly love, and there is potential in your releasing belongings to create love for another person. You and your children will learn to create more mental space, and be happier when you base your choices on joy. Combine this with giving, and there lies your contribution to a happier world.

Susie Ramroop is a transformational Mindset Coach helping busy parents to lead their families to more joy.

To enrol in her Spring Clean Your Life online course (for grownups), go to: www.susieramroop.com/spring-clean-your-life

familiesonline.co.uk

Mummy on the Edge A star is born.

T

he teen was in her new high school’s production of Sister Act. Her part was ‘unnamed gangster’. For this, she learned dance steps and songs and performed them with perfectly menacing gangsterliness. Participation necessitated hours and hours of rehearsal after school and at weekends and during school time (insert scream emoji here). I was very happy that she had found something she enjoyed at her new school and it was a wonderful way to get to know people outside of her classes. By the time I remembered to log on to Parentpay to buy our tickets all the proper seats had gone and only cushions and beanbags were available. I’m a lady of a certain age so sitting on a cushion for 3 hours was not ideal but before it started I happened to contribute to the PTA fund by buying a packet of Maltesers and small bottle of Castello Whatsit red wine so luckily that helped ease my discomfort and it was a great show!

It feels like only yesterday that I was sitting in the audience at primary school, chin in hands, ears surreptitiously plugged with fingers while the kid’s entire Year 1 class gave a demonstration of what they had learnt on the violin that term. Imagine: thirty violins playing what sounded like thirty different tunes - badly. That one occasion aside, I am going to miss these concerts and shows when the Teen goes off to University. Luckily I have friends with younger kids and last Friday, we shared in one of their moments of glory: We set off for Harrow late because I couldn’t remember where I had parked the car (I blame undiagnosed perimenopause) and we walked down the wrong hill for 10 minutes looking for it - and back up again. By the time we found it, located on a different street just 2 minutes from our front door, Friday night traffic was in full force and there was no time to even grab a bite before the show.

Shania is the eldest daughter of one of my closest friends and is one of the most driven kids I have ever met - she has always known she wants to be in show business. She is also the daughter of the most generous, hardworking and energetic mum (who has another two daughters whom she also encourages and ferries around to various activities). Shania has dedicated her time and attention to achieving her dream, attending countless classes – classical singing, rock singing, drama, piano, as well as weekend and late evening rehearsals for a tonne of professional-standard shows in local and London theatres, not to mention all her school productions. In

year 7 she played Tracey Turnblad, the lead character in Hairspray, with great humour and perfect American accent. In year 8, she played Mrs Potts, the teapot in Beauty and The Beast with aplomb, singing the title song.

Last week, The Teen and I went to see the utterly marvellous Shania as Princess Jasmine in her year 9 production of Aladdin. I told myself that this time I WOULD NOT CRY but I failed, crying as much as I did when I saw The Teen singing beautifully on stage when she was younger. I’m lucky she’s more interested in engineering than acting because to be honest, I’m not sure I would have the energy to keep up!

On the way home, The Teen and I stopped off at Nando’s for dinner (Peri-Peri-menopause!) Later that night, stomachs bursting with chicken and hearts bursting with pride for our star we turned on the TV to watch the programme we had recorded to look for…

Shania who was dressed up as a 50s schoolgirl in Grantchester!

We squealed with delight when we saw her in one of the opening scenes and took turns rewinding and pausing Sky to take photos all the way through the programme. Remember Pauline Quirk from Birds of a Feather? Shania is a student at her acting school, PQA academy and is on the books of their Quirky Kidz talent agency.

So far, as well as Grantchester, she’s found work playing a football prodigy on an online film, and there is more to come. Casting agents take note… and watch this space – and follow shaniasings on insta. Looks like I have many more years of surrogate stage-mum happy-tears to come.

Listen to Angelina’s popular chat show Dessert Island Discs on live on www.thepulsehr.uk Thursdays at 10am or catch up at www.mixcloud.com/angelina-melwani *facebook.com/angelinamelwani * twitter @appleina * mynotesfromtheedge.blogspot.com *Instagram @mynotesfromtheedge

Open: Monday – Friday 8am to 6pm Year Round/Term-Time Ages: 3 months – 6 years • Excellent Standard of Care & Education • Qualified Montessori Staff

familiesonline.co.uk

• Safe Play Areas

We are an Ofsted Registered Independent Montessori Nursery School

• Nutritious meals prepared daily by our on-site chef

St Michael’s Church Annex St Michael’s Church Road Cricklewood NW2 6XG

0208 830 7331 info@livingspringmontessori.com

Families North West London 11

Parties

PARTIES

We love this feature – it is always so much fun to plan and hold a birthday party for children. We’ve listed everyone and everything you need to know in our local area to help you create a wonderful special day for your ‘someone special’…

Party Entertainers/ Planners/Activities BeatBuilding Percussion Party - Whether you are organising a birthday party, family gathering or just a get together, beatbuilding can run a percussion workshop as part of your event for a fun filled experience that will leave you and your guests smiling and feeling energised. Games and activities using drums and percussion from around the world that culminates in a unique performance at the end of the workshop - lots of fun for everyone! 07721 623171 www.beatbuilding.co.uk Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 4 - 9-year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike! 0333 433 08458 www.enjoy-a-ball.com Huzzah - offers bespoke parties for your child that will leave them talking about it for weeks afterwards! From the moment the party leader arrives at your chosen venue the children will be hooked on the Drama games, songs and dances that fit around a theme of your choice. As well as being hugely fun, these parties are also focused on building confidence and creativity with friends. Why hire an entertainer when you can have a performing arts expert who will teach the children to make their own entertainment? Suitable for ages 4+. www.huzzahperformingarts.com KangaRooKids Drama, Music & Mini Disco Parties Ruth & puppet Roo the kangaroo take your child on an adventure with music, engaging props, fun jumping & dancing! Ruth Silver 07801 748 699 ruth@ kangarookidsgroup.co.uk London Academy of Gymnastics and Dance Parties LAGAD parties include a fun-packed hour of Gymnastics or Dance activities led by highly-trained teachers, followed by private use of the canteen for an hour for the party celebrations. Venues across North London, including the spacious hall and dance studio at The Ark Elvin Academy, Wembley HA9 7DU. www.lagad.co.uk/parties info@lagad.co.uk 0208 883 4675 LEGO® Engineering Clubs, Parties And Workshops. E2 Young Engineers programmes inspire young people to be innovative critical thinkers and problem solvers by exploring aspects of engineering and science building working models using their custom-made kits.

Programmes available for ages 4 – 99! www.young-engineers.co.uk Little Kickers – in Watford and Northwood. Celebrate your child’s birthday with Little Kickers! It’s fantastic fun; it’s healthy too, and they guarantee every child leaves with a huge smile and a shiny medal. Take to the side-lines while the qualified football coaches ensure your child and their friends enjoy a party to remember!

0208 123 9346 jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk Monkey Music – Monkey’s parties are great fun for children and babies of all ages. Each party is individually tailored to suit each separate occasion and includes singing, dancing, playing instruments and musical party games as well as colourful and sensory props. uxbridge.harrow@monkeymusic.co.uk 020 8427 6595 Neverland Events, a bespoke children’s party company specialising in 5* entertainment. They tailor make their parties to fit to any theme you wish for, providing amazing entertainment ranging from interactive storytelling adventures to comedy magic shows, epic discos plus so much more! www.neverlandevents.co.uk info@neverlandevents.co.uk Perform Parties - Based around an exciting theme of your choice, Perform’s energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter to create fun-filled, action-packed parties to remember.

Call 0207 255 9120 or visit performparties.co.uk for more info.

A Rugbytots Party is a fantastically fun-filled way to celebrate your child’s birthday, starting school or any other special event. Distinctive and dynamic and whether your child already attends their classes or not, at a Rugbytots Party they’ll be sure to have a ball! www.rugbytots.co.uk

12 Families North West London

Sparkle Pamper Party - Pamper parties for children aged 4-16. They will beautify your home or chosen venue into a relaxing and fun mini spa. Choose from a wide range of exciting pamper party packages. All packages can be tailored to suit your needs.

07391 717267 or visit www.sparklepamperparty.co.uk Stagecoach - Princesses, pirates or detectives, there’s a Stagecoach Party for everyone, and for all occasions! Their themed parties are perfect for children and teenagers looking for a unique celebration to remember. With lots of birthday themes to choose from, younger children are taken on a roller-coaster ride through their imagination as they take part in party games, storytelling, dancing and singing. www.stagecoach.co.uk Takayo – can make a party truly unique and inspiring, with a Japanese-themed celebration that everyone is sure to love. Kimono makeover parties are absolutely perfect for girls aged 5 yrs and above. www.takayo.co.uk 07862 874583.

Party Venues/Parties onsite Arc House, Harrow - Arc House performance space is designed to offer a flexible, multi-use facility and includes the Lounge@ Arc House café. It holds a performance area and an outdoor amphitheatre. The 49m2 indoor performance space is fully fitted with AV and PA equipment and is available for hire. For all bookings and requests for information, contact 020 8736 6810 archouse.enquiries@harrow.gov.uk Aspire Kidz Zone Stanmore - can help you party with their range of exciting parties. From sports hall to swimming pool parties, their experienced staff will ensure your child has a party to remember. 020 8420 6725, www.aspireleisurecentre.org.uk

Cinnamon Square Cinnamon Square, a multi-award winning bakery based in Rickmansworth, has been teaching children to bake for over 13 years, through a range of parties and workshops. During the classic baking party, suitable for 5 years and upwards, children make bread, pizza, cookies and their own Birthday cake. The newest hands-on baking party involves making scones, finger buns, pizza and a Birthday cake. Cupcake and Chocolate Making parties also available for children 9 years and over. Workshops and special classes for adults and children to attend together, run during the school holidays. For more details and dates visit the website www.cinnamonsquare.com or call 01923 778353 Cloud 9 Leisure Imagine a giant inflatable world which combines the fun, challenge and excitement of Ninja Warrior, Gladiator and Total Wipeout! Cloud 9 is an incredibly new, exciting, active leisure experience for all ages. From a giant inflatable obstacle course and dodgeball arena to a 1v1 battle platform, the fun is endless with plenty more surprises in store. Parties at Cloud 9 are for groups of 10 or more people & include one hour General Admission followed by the Party room for 40 mins. www.cloud9leisure.com

familiesonline.co.uk

Parties

Perform Parties Echo’s Equestrian Centre - Want something a little different for your child’s birthday party? Echo’s Equestrian Centre offers a range of tailor made birthday packages. Not only do they offer pony rides, but the chance to groom and decorate Bella and Poppy the miniature Shetlands and meet all the other animals, including rabbits, goats and Luna the dragon.

They also offer the chance to do arts and crafts, paint a pony, outdoor games (tug of war, space hopper racing, on foot jump course, water fights). www.echosequestrian.co.uk Forever Green Forest School - If your child likes the great outdoors, then why not throw them an outdoor activity party run by Forever Green Forest School.

They can make a bespoke party based on a theme of your choice that can include fire lighting and cooking, whittling, den building and woodland craft. www.forevergreenforestschool.com Gambado Watford Gambado offers children the chance to play, learn, explore and party in Watford’s most exciting indoor soft play & adventure centre.

Gambado parties are fun for all & hassle-free for parents. Gambado have party packages to suit everyone. www.gambado.com Go JumpIn Located in Borehamwood/Elstree, Go JumpIn offer the perfect trampolining party package for your special occasion! Jumpin’, pumpin’ parties everyone will want to be part of! JumpIn offers VIP packages, amazing themed rooms and all the clearing up done for you! www.gojumpin.com Hertfordshire Sports Village - Choose from a range of fantastic birthday parties to celebrate your kids special day at Hertfordshire Sports Village and make it a birthday to remember. Pool Slide Party; Battle Zone Party; Sports Party; Bounce & Play Party; Splash Party and Cheerleading Party. Party Room available. www.hertssportsvillage.co.uk Paradise Wildlife Park Celebrate your child’s birthday with all of their favourite animals, from meerkats and lemurs to zebras and big cats. Why not consider

familiesonline.co.uk

booking one of the animal experiences as the perfect gift for your child on their birthday? There are three fantastic fun-filled packages for children’s birthday parties in the Tumble Jungle and Safari Sam’s Diner.

Children can take their friends and enjoy the amazing animals at the park or enjoy exclusive entry to the Tumble Jungle Indoor Soft Play area after hours. www.pwpark.com Parents Paradise A birthday party at Parents Paradise is one to remember. They offer a fabulous children’s party range suitable for ages 1 to 11 years. Parents Paradise aims to take away all the stress from a kid’s party and their service includes a dedicated children’s party host to take care of your party group’s every need. Why not try the VIP parties and hire the whole venue for the kids party event of the year. 01923 248 747 www.parentsparadise.eu Partyman World of Play Wembley - From Teddy Tastic parties to Art & Crafts there is something fun for everyone here. www.partymanworld.co.uk Rumble-Tumble Harrow - take the hassle out of organising birthday parties, they will do it all for you, from party invites to entertainment to food and even the cake! They offer a range of packages to suit all budgets as well as the option of hiring out their venue. All you have to do is turn up with your child and guests and they will take care of the rest!

020 8427 8847 www.rumble-tumble.com The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) Fun for kids, hassle-free for parents, birthday parties at The Windmill Studio Centre, Ruislip Manor, for 1-10 years boys & girls include invitations, party leader & assistant(s), freshly prepared food, decorations, music, lights, games, dancing, props and prizes.

Optional extras - adult refreshments, face-painting and party bags. Lots of themes from Princesses and Super Heroes to Monsters, Trolls, Makers and Mad Hatters! Modern & clean venue. 01895 624755 thewindmillstudio@gmail.com www.thewindmillstudio.com

Families North West London 13

Local Clubs and Classes Directory CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS Adult Art Classes in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for adults. Weekday morning studio sessions in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk BaB – Bring a Baby courses for adults. All Bring a Baby Courses are designed for you, the grown up, but are fun and engaging for your kids too. Their courses get 5* reviews because they make it possible for you to learn a new skill and be with your children. Photography, Knitting, Embroidery, Cake Decorating and more.  www.bab-courses.co.uk Busy Lizzy Hillingdon (UB) Fitness and fun for mums and little ones. All you prenatal, postnatal and baby classes together in one place. Free trial class available!  Hillingdon@busylizzy.co.uk  0333 939 8787 Capital Connection Chorus - female A capella harmony (HA4) Calling women who love to sing! Particularly need lower range voices at present.

Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a great group of women.

Wed night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at Ruislip Community Centre.  www.capitalconnection.org.uk Eggless Cake Delights (HA) offer eggless baking, cake decorating and dessert classes for kids & adults in Harrow. Classes are held in small groups in hands on and Demo format, during weekdays, weekends and during term holidays in a friendly environment.  07737847405 or info@ egglesscakedelights.com.  www.egglesscakedelights.com Meditation (HA5) Every FIRST Thursday of the month, 8.00pm at The Stables, Eastcote House Gardens, Eastcote Village, HA5 2FE. Everyone 18+ welcome. Just £5. Feel energised, increase happiness, improve mental clarity and memory recall. Flush out negative thoughts and improve physical and mental health. Ten minute stress relief treatment for newcomers FREE. No booking needed, just come along. For more information, contact Alexandra Barrett: alexandrabarrett@me.com;  0775 334 90 24 Movers and Shapers (NW6) Fitness with babies in tow. Book online. www. moversandshapers.co.uk 020 7624 8687 queenspark@moversandshapers.co.uk Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based yoga classes for women throughout their lives. The sessions incorporate traditional yoga asanas (postures) adapted for water, water relaxations and positive life building experiences for women, mothers and mothers to be. There are AquaBellies - Aquanatal yoga for pregnancy, AquaMamas, post natal and AquaBelles aqua yoga classes suitable for all women. NEW YogaBelles: yoga designed for a unique women’s body.  07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli Zest For Life Studio is a new secret fitness oasis for vitality and wellness near you. Let me welcome you in my garden studio to share an invigorating hour of zesty fitness, a unique programme of toning circuit & zumba: enjoy a variety of class at 9am, a personal touch, small group of 6-8. In&outdoor classes. marion.bignone.zumba.com zestforlifestudio@gmail.com

First Aid MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs.  Margaret 07814 191 395  mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk

LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT All Saints Toddler Group (HA8) Every Thursday 10am-11.45am. Everyone welcome. A small friendly group run by the pre-school, with qualified staff on hand to provide help and support if needed. At Waltham Drive, Queensbury, Edgeware, HA8 5PQ.  07985 284 498/07958 473 475.  allsaintpreschool@hotmail.co.uk www.allsaintpreschool.com Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development.

Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258  www. cbcd.bbk.ac.uk Chinmaya UK (HA) Do you want your children to connect to their Indian culture through stories, games and celebration of festivals? Go along to Bal Vihar classes to explore culture and values in an engaging, positive environment. Every Sunday in Harrow and Hendon for children aged 5-17.  bv@chinmayauk.org www. chinmayauk.org 07812 146428 Giggling Panda Chinese School (UB5) offers fun, creative and engaging Mandarin classes for children aged 3-11. Small size classes are run on Sundays and the school is located conveniently off A40 with onsite parking. Alec Reed Academy Bengarth Rd, Northolt UB5 5LQ Lisa.malde@ gigglingpanda.co.uk 07916165228 www.gigglingpanda.co.uk Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Saturday morning at 9am and 10am at St Lawrence Church in Eastcote, Pinner.  www.sansaar.org Little Stars Baby Club (HA9) A fun and friendly baby club where new mums with babies from birth to sitting can relax and meet new friends whilst babies play and explore with a range of lovely sensory toys. Every Friday 9:30-11:15am at Powell Suites @ Chalkhill Community Centre, The Welford Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley Park HA9 9FX. £2.00  0208 385 1836  littlestarswembley@gmail.com The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An Independent Practice providing an exceptionally high quality, caring and individualised service for promoting the communication needs of children.

We offer Speech and Language Therapy sessions within a modern clinic base, nurseries and schools. 01923 824 074 07956 994721  www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Portuguese for Children (NW6) Every Saturday, from 10am to 12pm, the International Gospel Church on Belsize Road will be open for children from 4 to 12 years of Brazilian-English parents to enrol. Lessons will include how to read and write and Brazilian culture, including music. Lessons run from September and February 2016 and are free.  contact@igclondon.org.uk

14 Families North West London

Guju Tots Swagatham! Kem Chho? Come along to a FREE taster of these fun-filled 45 minute classes in NW London to help kids 6 months to 5 years learn Gujarati through songs & stories! Interactive, relaxed classes, plus plenty of material to practice at home!  07956 385 316  www.gujutots.co.uk

Outdoor Forest School Parent & Toddler Programme. Monday and Friday Oxhey /Northwood. Come and explore in the woods, led by experienced and qualified Forest School Practitioners. Developing learning, confidence and well being through fire, den building, song, storytelling, craft and tool use.  07900 215 512  www.forevergreenforestschool.com

Sign Language Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills.

Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and Harrow.  www.singandsign.com

HEALTH AND WELLBEING Wellbeing Kids Workshops (WD3) Well-being workshops for children aged 9-12yr and 13-17yr olds. Holiday masterclasses to support the holistic mind, body and spirit learning. By exploring emotional intelligence, imagination, yoga, mindfulness, role-play and many more creative/ outdoor activities.For more information, please contact Anita  07956 849614,  wellbeingkids@gmail.com

Massage & Yoga Human Values Based Yoga After school classes run in Harrow by a qualified yoga teacher with over 40 years yoga experience and over 30 yrs teaching yoga in various settings, including adult education and family learning, community clubs, hospitals and mental health centres. For adults and children 6-11 years.  Joyce on 07912 879 103  joycedpower@aol.com YogaBelliesKidz Family yoga (HA & WD) Share the mental and physical benefits of yoga...peace of mind, relaxation and increases body strength and flexibility!

YogaBellies Mum and Baby yoga: Monday afternoons (birth to 10 mths) YogaBellies Little Angels pre-school yoga (18 mths to 4 yrs): Sat mornings, Bushey YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (4-12 yrs): Sat & Sun mornings, Bushey NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 yrs): Weekday evening, Bushey 07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk; www.yogabellies.co.uk/ members/anjli

ACTIVITY CENTRES Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide range of activities available from 6mths to 12yrs. 020 8954 5759  kidzzone@ aspire.org.uk. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP Cloud 9 Leisure (WD25) Imagine a giant inflatable world which combines the fun, challenge and excitement of Ninja Warrior, Gladiator and Total Wipeout! Cloud 9 at Francis Coombe School in Watford is an incredibly new, exciting, active leisure experience for all ages. From a giant inflatable obstacle course and dodgeball arena to a 1v1 battle platform, the fun is endless with plenty more surprises in store.  www.cloud9leisure.com JAMtots (HA4) An interactive daytime activity centre for parents with babies and toddlers. All pay as you go with a variety of sessions that include Parent & Toddler Groups, Musical Tots, Gym Tots and one off events plus special visits from Jimmy the JAMtots Bear. 01895 624755  thewindmillstudio.com Rumble Tumble Harrow (HA1) Harrow’s only indoor supervised soft play children’s play group. Why not take advantage of the Drop & Shop facility and have a stress free shop, or book a special event in the Party Room available for all occasions. You can even relax and have a snack in the restaurant while your little ones are playing. 0208 427 8847  info@ rumble-tumble.com www.rumble-tumble.com The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting activity centre that has just about everything to offer for all ages from babies to adults including classes, courses, complementary therapies and room & studio hire. 01895 624755  www. thewindmillstudio.com

MUSIC & MOVEMENT Beat Building Vibrant & energising music classes using African drums and funky percussion. Great songs and games get the imagination glowing & introduce the concepts of beats, rhythmic patterns, time keeping & also encourage sharing, taking turns and listening. A wonderful introduction to music and rhythm, beat Building is brilliantly fun! 07721 623 171  info@beatbuilding.co.uk www. beatbuilding.co.uk www.facebook.com/ beatbuilding Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 yrs with small, age-related classes. Classes are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and core music skills.

New class starting in Hendon in Jan 2017. 020 8444 9435  www. nlcolourstrings.co.uk Diddi Dance Harrow & North Hillingdon (various) At diddi dance we enhance children’s endless energy and enthusiasm through funky, full of fun sessions that build confidence, co-ordination and creativity. Classes in Pinner,Ruislip & Stanmore with new ones opening soon. To book a FREE TRIAL contact tejal. patel@diddidance.com Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning Monkey Music introduces babies and young children to music in a way they understand and enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum, written by classically trained musicians, ensures that classes are a “good fit” for pre-schoolers. Parents across the UK have voted it as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity”. Age guides are as follows: Rock’n’ Roll from 3m,

Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Classes are open 6 days a week, at venues in Uxbridge, Eastcote, Northwood, Harrow and Stanmore. 020 8427 6595  www.monkeymusic.com Sling Swing (various) Award Winning Fun Dance Classes for Parents/Carers with your little one in a Sling/Carrier. For Babies aged from 6 weeks* No Experience Necessary. Slings available to use in Class. Dance styles include Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet, Salsa and Commercial. Hatch End- Ruislip- UxbridgeWatford- Stanmore.  www.slingswing.co.uk Info: gemmagoodman@ slingswing.co.uk

SPORTS AND EXERCISE All Stars Cricket Gives boys and girls aged 5-8 the chance to play, learn great skills and make new friends! 8 week course starts May 2018.  www.allstarscricket.co.uk Capoeira Academy UK (HA) Classes in Stanmore providing outstanding and fun classes for children aged 4+years. A unique blend of martial arts, dance, acrobatics and music; capoeira develops skills for life with inspiring and nurturing teachers. 07841342874  capoeiracademyuk@gmail. com www. capoeiracademyuk.com Echo’s Equestrian Centre (SL0) A small friendly livery yard and Pony Club Centre in Iver, Buckinghamshire. Junior Pony Club and a Hoof Club during the holidays. 07895 706053  www.echosequestrian.co.uk Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for the perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike! 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886  www.enjoy-a-ball.com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time, Field End Rd for ages 5–11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.45am, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 12.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Tracey fieldendflyers@gmail.com Harrow Junior Hockey Club (HA1) run sessions for children aged 4- 16 years on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings at The John Lyon School Playing Fields, Sudbury Hill, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3NA. Everyone welcome please contact us for more information  harrowhcjuniors@ outlook.com Hertfordshire Sports Village (AL10) have plenty of activities and sports sessions to keep your children active throughout the year. They cater for all children between the ages of 0 – 17 years and offer everything from swimming lessons, Gymnastics, Mini Movers, Trampolining and Mini Boots.  www.hertssportsvillage.co.uk Ignite Tennis (HA3) Coaching courses for ages 3+ at Kenton Lawn Tennis Club. Junior group coaching is for those who wish to improve their tennis skills with others of a similar age and ability. Each session will cover different aspects of the game and they will relate from one session to the next. All sessions include technical, tactical, physical and mental skills.

Contact James  07852 180905  info@ignitetennis.co.uk www.ignitetennis.co.uk Kaishi Karate School runs classes for children and adults in North London.

Karate helps with discipline, confidence, coordination and fitness. First class is a free trial and free karate suit to new members during the month of October. Call on 07875501674 or see class times on  www.kaishikarate34@gmail.com Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet 020 8201 1084  jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford  0208 123 9346  jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley  0208 422 0676  niro@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk London Academy of Gymnastics and Dance (LAGAD) Wembley and across north London (HA9, N2, N3, N12, N8, N10, N14, N15, N20, N22, NW11) LAGAD is a specialist company passionate about the provision of high quality, dynamic and fun dance & gymnastics classes. Classes for youngsters from 3.5 years through to advanced levels. Our fully-trained, highly qualified coaches and dance teachers work with all abilities to bring out the best in each child and help them develop a range of fantastic physical and life skills. Birthday Parties also available. Trial Classes throughout the term. LAGAD aim to inspire and ignite a passion. 0208 883 4675  info@lagad.co.uk www.lagad.co.uk

SportsKids Academy ((WD3 & HA3) SportsKids Academy provide 4 -16 year olds with an exciting and educational sports programme at weekends. We encourage and develop young people to grow as athletes and individuals. We have an extensive programme of team and individual sports as well as weekly team building challenges. ALL CHILDREN participate in a wide range of different sports , grow in confidence through leadership skills and have fun making lots of new friends. Their programme includes; American Football, Dodgeball, Handball, Basketball, Rugby, Softball, Gaelic Football, Rounders, Athletics, Cricket, Gymnastics, Tennis, Fencing, Lacrosse, Archery, Netball, Volleyball, Martial Arts, Football, Badminton, Hockey, Orienteering and Golf.  07983392479 8 sportskids@outlook.com www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Local Clubs and Classes Directory TISKA (HA1/9) Learn the fascinating art of Karate. Classes held in Wembley and Harrow. Families welcome, minimum age 4 yrs. 07739 572487  patel.karate@icloud.com www.tiskakarate-harrow.co.uk Y Active (HA2) New Harrow classes booking now for children and adults at the YMCA. A beautiful studio with free parking and a play garden. Baby, Ballet, Gym, Soft Play and Classes from £4.40. 020 8832 1576  yactive@ymcawestlondon.org www.ymcawestlondon.org

Swimmimg Aqua Vie are doing Regular weekly Tues Wed and Sunday classes in Bushey during term times. Spaces for new babies Tues, Wed and new group Adult swim classes. Learn mindful effortless swimming in a calm environment in warm water. Use less effort, swim further and experience the joy of water.  office@aqua-vie.com  01923 245 773 www.Aqua-Vie.com Brent Dolphins (NW10/HA0) Swimming lessons for children 5 years and over at Willesden and Vale Farm. Sessions are held in a fun and friendly environment from beginner to competitive swimming level.Further details are available on our website www.brentdolphins.org.uk or you can email our Club Secretary at: info@brentdolphins.org.uk

THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA examinations to advanced level. 07974 750 224  www.beverleydance.co.uk.

Future Stars Theatre Arts (various) Drama – Dance – Sing – LAMDA. Future Stars is an established stage school with an outstanding reputation for excellence. They provide fun, fresh and dynamic training in Drama, Dance, Singing and LAMDA taught by the very best in the industry. Ages: 3-18 years. Classes in Stanmore College, Northwood, Aldenham and Radlett.

Visit the website to book your FREE TRIAL now! Limited availability! info@futurestarstheatrearts.co.uk  07912538656  www.futurestars.co.uk Huzzah Performing Arts & Mindfulness Build confidence from the inside out with a Huzzah weekly class. Drama, dance, singing and a touch of mindfulness. Ages 4 - 7. Saturday 1 - 2.20pm in Queen’s Park. Sunday 10 11.30am in West Hampstead. Sign up for a FREE TRIAL  www.huzzahperformingarts.com. Creative, calm, confident kids.

JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Truly like no other, with classes available in dancing and drama from 2.5 years – adults, male and female plus an incredibly busy Agency that is always looking for new recruits for TV, films and commercials. 01895 624755 www.jam2000.co.uk Perform Weekly drama, dance and singing classes. Confidence building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions.

Venues in Croxley Green, Golders Green, Northwood, Pinner, Harrow, Hatch End, Kensal Rise, Kentish Town, Queens Park, Stanmore and Wembley.  020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) “A new school year is here, which means that children across London and the Home Counties are taking to the stage as Jigsaw begins an exciting new term of drama, singing and dance classes; the perfect activity to escape the cold, wet October weekends.

Classes are designed to develop children’s confidence, focus and social skills, while having fun and making lots of new friends. With more children attending Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools than ever before, now is the time to book a two-week trial and discover these unique benefits at a school near you. For more information or to book a two-week trial,  www. jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.

Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Performance based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Stanmore where children 3-21 attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions. 01923 437693  www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by having fun!  Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599  www.stagecoach.co.uk Sylvia Young Theatre School (W1H) A specialist performing arts school offering a high level of academic & vocational studies. The Sylvia Young Theatre School is committed to providing high-quality part time training for students aged 4 to 18 years old. Classes are held on Thursday evenings and Saturdays at their Central London school at 1 Nutford Place, and focus on singing, dance and drama. www.sylviayoungtheatreschool.co.uk Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, Drama and Communication Skills for children 3-18yrs.  wordworksstudio@ymail.com Young A Listers (HA0) Young A-Listers is the UK’s first part-time Selfempowerment Drama School, founded by Actor/Writer/Director Samuell Benta, with an intention to raise young people’s awareness about their personal strengths and power. The school offers the chance for children to pursue a career in acting or simply learn some new skills and build their confidence as a person. Classes every Tues and Thurs at St Johns Community Centre in Wembley. www.youngalisters.com info@YoungAListers.com 07508 031 672

familiesonline.co.uk

Dance Instep School of Ballet (HA/WD) Trains students of all ages and abilities in ballet, tap, pointe and performance. The school offers examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (ballet) and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (tap), and all teachers are fully qualified and registered with the RAD and ISTD. They produce a summer show each year. Classes in Harrow, North Harrow and Bushey.  07814 793 772  instepschoolofballet@yahoo.co.uk www.instepschoolofballet.co.uk London Academy of Gymnastics & Dance (LAGAD) LAGAD is a specialist company passionate about the provision of high quality, dynamic and fun dance & gymnastics classes. Toddler and Parent Ballet (from age 18 Months) and Children’s Ballet and Street Dance classes for children aged 3.5 years upwards at the Ark Elvin Academy. All abilities welcome, Trial Classes available throughout the term. Wembley (HA9) and venues across North London.  0208 883 4675 /  info@lagad.co.uk www.lagad.co.uk Tartan Tots A fun introduction to Scottish dancing for 3 and 4 year olds.

Encourages co-ordination, rhythm and keeping time to music. Experienced and qualified teacher. Saturday mornings in Watford. Classes also in Highland dancing for primary aged children.  07866 295694  shunt@moose.co.uk The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations  020 8950 2457  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

ARTS AND CRAFTS Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for children and adults. On-going, small groups Mon–Thurs afternoons and Saturday mornings in Term Time for children from Year 1 up. Weekday morning studio sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment. 020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or 11-12pm at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric printing and much more!

For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided. Qualified teachers. 07946 055 422  info@mysistersandme.co.uk Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) A new and exciting Arts and Crafts activity club for children ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and holidays. They offer and Mother Toddler Group art club (aged 1-4 yrs) and an After-school/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs) Contact to book your place: Keshma 07419343105  keshma.artzania@gmail.com The Bite Me Corner’s Confidence building cooking & Nutrition programmes! (HA9) Come, join our engaging Saturday cooking and nutrition sessions held in the heart of Wembley Park at The Yellow! 1 Humphry Repton Lane, Wembley Park, London HA9 0GL. Booking required for these sessions: 11am-12pm ; 12:30- 1:30pm. Ages 7+. Create a variety of quick and tasty recipes from great pizza to double chocolate muffins!

Healthy options start from being confident with your ingredients! Using organic and commercial food produce we’ll get you fired-up and back in the kitchen to create fantastic dishes! HEY, THERE’S MORE! If you would like to join on our After- school fun programmes which are held at: Cranford Park Academy, Phelps Way, Hayes, Middx, UB3 4LQ on Tuesdays 3:30-4:30pm or Friday 3:30-5:00pm or have one of our exciting Wellbeing Workshops contact Lauri on:  www.thebitemecorner.com contact@thebitemecorner.com Blank Canvas Art Club (HA4) Do your kids love Art? Then welcome to the club! Sign them up for these fun classes where I teach art techniques to 5+, 7+ and 11-18 year olds. Weekly term time classes & holiday workshops, with public or small group private options are available in Ruislip Manor & Eastcote. Special member’s benefits, sibling discounts and a refer a friend scheme are available so why not book now & let them develop a love of Art that will last a lifetime! Contact Suzi at  blankcanvasartclub@gmail. com, 07773 819 603 8 www.Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts for the very young and their families, with lots of mess and none of the tidying up! Exploring different materials and textures each week. Ages under 5, come dressed for mess! 0208 416 8989  www.harrowarts.com/ family Stitch Club (HA5) Stitch and Sketch Club for children and teens. Start with simple hand sewing then developing sewing machine and design techniques to design and create your own items. Saturday Sketch Club develops looking and drawing skills and confidence. Also parties and one-off workshops. Adults’ weekly Dressmaking sessions and occaisional Beginners workshops.  stitch.club E: sam@stitch.club

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/EDUCATION SUPPORT Academic Primary School Tuition (HA8 & WD23) in Maths/English or Phonics & Writing for 3.5 to 11 year olds at our Little Big Leaders Saturday School, Summer School and Winter School, in our 8th year of success. Tutors support and challenge pupils to improve their learning, and have a track record in enabling pupils to demonstrate progress in their mainstream setting and/or in 5+, 7+ and 11+ examinations. Childcare vouchers accepted.

Free trial lessons. 020 3637 6266  www.littlebigleaders.com Adams Tutors (various) A bespoke tuition service from London’s leading tuition provider – one to one and group tuition. Experts in maths. 11+, Entrance Exams, 13+, GCSE, A-Levels. All tutors are DBS Enhanced checked. 020 7859 4556  www.adamstutors.co.uk All Saints Pre-School Queensbury (HA8) Free childcare for 2-5 yrs, 15-30 hours. Visit anytime Mon - Fri. Waltham Drive, Queensbury, Edgeware, HA8 5PQ. 07985 284 498/07958 473 475.  allsaintpreschool@hotmail.co.uk www.allsaintpreschool.com

Brownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units exist across the area which provide fun activities for girls aged from 5 onwards.  www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or Peggy Brand 020 8205 7597 Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes held at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every lesson is designed to complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials available. 020 8434 7111.  www.clickit-kids. co.uk. wendy@clickit-kids.co.uk.

DiscoG Coding Boot Camp (various) Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels.

Adult courses are also available. Gerard on 07767 300940  info@ discogcodingacademy.com www.discogcodingacademy.com Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest centre or call to book a free trial class!  www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time adjacent to Field End Junior School, Field End Road, Eastcote, HA4, for children aged 5 – 11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.15am and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 11.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves, water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Contact Tracey at fieldendflyers@gmail.com The Harrow Woodcraft Folk (HA) Elfin group for children, 6 to 9yrs.

Parents wishing to join their children should contact the District Secretary; John Woolf: 020 8428 2409 or harrow@woodcraft.org.uk www. harrowwoodcraftfolk.btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better allround motor integration. Usha Patel 07766 837 616 ushapatel.raviv@ gmail.com www.integratedbrain.co.uk JKEducate Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL. 020 3488 0754  www.jkeducate.co.uk Karen Wilkin Tuition (HA) 4+/5+ tuition. One to one, tailor made, handson, fun sessions in the comfort of your home. Experienced Montessori teacher with excellent results in all the top schools. Term time and holiday sessions available. 07887 984 401, wilkin@afrormosia.com Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. 07985 588 085  www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus classroom based learning, to yr 4 and 5 students. Prepare students to sit exams for Grammar and private schools.  For a call back email your name and number to info@thelondontutors.co.uk Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework support. 0333 12 33 445  www.mathscool.com Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11.  www.numberworksnwords.co.uk The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior Schools (NW6) - 3.30pm to 6pm term time. Play schemes available out of term-time. 0207 407 6744. admin@theplayshelter.co.uk www. theplayshelter.co.uk Pinner Tuition Centre (Pinner) After school and Sat tuition for Reception to Year 11 by fully qualified teachers. Tuition in Maths, Reading, Spelling, Writing, SATS, 11+ and GCSE. Free assessment. Ofsted Registered.  www. pinnertuitioncentre.co.uk Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course. Improve reading age by 1 year in 3 months of home based work. The computer interventions is similar to having a tutor in your home with daily monitoring and feed back. Usha Patel on 07766 837 616  info@ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist) Science Group Tuition (HA8) for KS3 and GCSE pupils at our Little Big Leaders holiday schools - Winter, Summer, Easter for only £200 per week.

Only 10 pupils per class. Our highly experienced tutor takes pupils through academic content in CGP Revision Guides and supports pupils through the completion of CGP Workbooks for KS3 and GCSE examination boards AQA, Edexcel and IGCSE. 020 3637 6266  www.littlebigleaders.com Stem Den (HA6) Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths for children aged 5 to 13 years. Develop problem solving skills and learn programming.

At St John’s School in Northwood. www.stemden.co.uk Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the students on the courses have achieved success.  020 7683 0734  www.sdeuk.org/swherts Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA2) Learn to touch type!

Weekly lessons and intensive holiday courses for children from age 8-18.

Highly recommended for children with dyslexia. Classes are held at their office in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult classes also available.  020 8434 7111.  www.typeitforkids.co.uk. wendy@ typeitforkids.co.uk.

Families North West London 15

What’s On

What’s On

listings for all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing (May/June 2019 issue) send your entry by 1 April 2019 Email Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

Tue 12 & 26 Mar; 23 & 30 Apr- Mini Museum (HA2) Under 5’s and their grown-ups will have so much fun discovering Museum objects, singing and getting crafty at Headstone Manor! Each session has a different theme to do with the history of Headstone Manor and Harrow. 2-2.30pm in the Granary Learning Centre. www.headstonemanor.org Wed 13 Mar - Regional Festival of Music For Youth (HA5) Harrow Arts Centre and Harrow and Ealing Music Services are proud to be the hosts of a Regional Festival of Music for Youth, part of the biggest Music Festival in the country. The Regional Festivals are a fantastic chance for young musicians to perform and share their music, listen to performances from other groups, meet other musicians and gain expert advice from professional musicians and music educators: our Music Mentors. Sessions at 10am-12pm, 1-3pm and 4-6pm. www.harrowarts.com Wed 13 – Sun 17 Mar - The Wonderful World of Disney On Ice (HA9) A Magical Medley of Classic and Modern Tales, including Disney’s The Lion King, Frozen and for the first time in the UK Disney Pixar’s Finding Dory! Audiences will relive the magic and memories of their favourite Disney animated films when The Wonderful World of Disney On Ice skates into the SSE Wembley Arena. Join Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as they venture through a treasure-filled journey bound for heartwarming adventure. www.disneyonice.co.uk

Royal Museums Greenwich

MARCH Ongoing - Calling all…sailors! (SE10) Take the family to Cutty Sark in Greenwich for an action-packed day out on the fastest ship of its time. Meet characters from the ship’s past such as Captain Woodget and the ship’s cook and listen to their epic stories about life on board. Try and outwit the crew in the Sailors’ Challenge game, find your sea legs by taking the helm at the ship’s wheel, follow a family trail or take part in fun workshops.

Book now to save 10%: rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Sat 9 Mar – Lots for Tots Sale Ruislip (HA4) A busy sale where you can find great quality, second-hand baby and

toddler equipment, clothes, toys and more, at bargain prices! At Dean Park Hall in Ruislip from 2-4pm. Entry £1, free parking. www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk Sat 9 – Sun 10 Mar – MineVention at Dreamland Margate (CT9) Minecraft maniacs and Fortnite fans assemble! MineVention is coming to Dreamland with a packed programme of demos, tournaments, talks and even a Guinness World Record attempt for Minecraft lovers big and small.

But they won’t be building and battling alone… for the first time at Dreamland, the online gaming phenomenon Fortnite will be pulling into the park on the iconic Razer Gaming Bus and running tournaments throughout the event. www.dreamland.co.uk

Thu 14 Mar - Jon Culshaw’s Guide to the Night Sky (SE10) Join astronomer and comedian Jon Culshaw for a personalised tour of the night sky in his own unique style. Jon is one of the judges for Insight Investment Astronomy Photographer of the Year and a frequent contributor to BBC Sky at Night amongst an illustrious comedy career, and will be curating and sharing his own trip around the cosmos. From the near reaches of the Moon to the far reaches of the galaxy he’ll be sure to wow you with a symphony of celestial delights. 6.30-7.30pm, ages 11+. www.rmg.co.uk

Paediatric First Aid Courses Sat 23 Mar; Sat 27 Apr; Sun 19 May - Harrow on the Hill

Suitable for Ofsted Registration.

Includes some home study.

Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85

Contact Margaret at mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk or on 07814 191 395 for bookings Other dates available

16 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On Thu 14 Mar – Thu 18 Apr - Made of Money 5 Week Course (HA1) This course is for every parent who feels they would like to spend less and try and save . If you would like to find out how to manage your household budget more effectively then this is the course for you. Parents have constant pressure on their finances, having to meet expectations and demands from their children. It’s not always easy to find the time and space to make the subject of money, and its challenges, part of family life and the children’s understanding. Takes place at Hope Harrow, 9.30-11.30am.

020 88637319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk Sat 16 Mar - BSL-led Family Storytelling (SW3) Discover more about Army animals in this British Sign Language-led, bilingual and interactive storytelling session, designed specifically for deaf and hearing families to enjoy together. At the National Army Museum, 11am & 1pm. Free, Booking recommended. www.nam.ac.uk Sun 17 Mar - Wacky Wallpaper (HA2) Print your own wallpaper at Headstone Manor, taking inspiration from the wallpaper discovered during the restoration of the Manor House. Free artist led family fun suitable for ages 5+ and their grown-ups! Drop in any time between 11am-3pm. www.headstonemanor.org Sun 17 Mar - Woof Walkies Highgate 2019 (N6) Calling all dog owners! Join Cancer Research UK for a furry family fun day out in Waterlow Park this Spring. Woof Walkies is a chance to spend a few hours with family, friends and your beloved dog in the great outdoors whilst raising those essential funds to research all 200+ cancers. On the day there will be: Refreshments, A Raffle, Stalls and a Dog Show. www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk Sun 17 Mar - Early Birds at the Science Museum (SW7) Early Birds is a sensory friendly morning for families with children who need a quieter environment to enjoy the museum. This event is suitable for children who benefit from visiting the museum free from the hustle and bustle of the general public (for example, children with autism spectrum conditions or sensory processing differences). The Early Birds accessible events are completely free and suitable for families with children aged 4–15, open from 8am. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

Sat 23 Mar - Northern Ballet: Bite-Sized Ballets: Three Little Pigs (WD25) Northern Ballet, in collaboration with CinEvents, is making its debut in cinemas in the new year with over 200 screenings across the UK of some of its most popular children’s ballets. Three Little Pigs will be showing at the Vue cinema in Watford on 23rd March. The children’s ballets have been adapted for TV following their premières amassing over 1M viewers, and this first venture into cinema will enable more families than ever before to access Northern Ballet’s productions and provide an engaging introduction to both ballet and cinema. www.bitesizedballets.com

Thu 21 – Sat 23 Mar - The Pirates of Penzance (SE10) To celebrate 150 years since work began on building Cutty Sark, Merry Opera bring an exuberant production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s Pirates of Penzance. Enjoy an evening of sentimental pirates, blundering policemen, absurd adventures, improbable paradoxes –and realistic women. Age: 11+. www.rmg.co.uk

Sat 23 Mar - AKO Autism Expo (UB8) An event run by a charity who created the AKO Autism Expo as a way of supporting and informing as many families and carers as possible.

It’s a time to meet like-minded people, share stories, talk to an expert in one of the clinics and to find out more about Autism and it’s related conditions. At Brunel University from 9.30am-4.30pm. www.akoautismexpo.co.uk

Thu 21 Mar & Thu 18 Apr - Bach to Baby (WC1N) Discover the award-winning classical concert series for babies, toddlers and parents at the Foundling Museum. Bach to Baby is an innovative and award-winning concert series for babies, toddlers and their parents to enjoy together. Founded by mother and concert pianist Miaomiao Yu, the series features acclaimed musicians with regular performances in venues across London and Surrey, as well as guest appearances at major festivals across the UK. www.bachtobaby.com.

Sat 23 Mar & Sat 6 Apr - Pillows and Pilots Sleepovers (NW9) In March 2019, the RAF Museum are launching Pillows and Pilots, so grab your sleeping bag and get set for an evening of fun. These sleepovers are for organised groups of children aged 7 – 15. So if you’re part of a scout, brownie or cadet group this is perfect for you! Activities include a film, before settling down for the night surrounded by aircraft and artefacts. For early risers, there will be a chance to go on some fascinating tours in our other galleries and early bird access to the Museum Shop. www.rafmuseum.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Northern Ballet: Bite-Sized Ballets: Three Little Pigs Sat 23 Mar - Cutty Sark tour in British Sign Language (SE10) Join deaf historian John Wilson for a tour of Cutty Sark and her history in BSL. Explore the 1869 clipper, celebrated for her record-breaking passages around the globe and find out about life on board and the fascinating story of her survival.

Assistance dogs welcome. 11am-12pm & 1.30-2.30pm. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 23 – Sun 24 Mar - Learn to Play Day 2019 (Various) For the seventh successive year Music for All’s national Learn to Play Day will be returning to a music venue near you offering everyone opportunities to receive FREE ‘taster’ musical instrument lessons. On the day there will be a host of rock stars, celebrities and local dignitaries lending support.

Full details of the event, including participating venues and local appearances, can be found at www.learntoplayday.com Sun 24 Mar - Family Takeover: Make and Create (NW1) Enjoy playful multisensory activities and learning resources for all ages at the British Library. A selection of children’s books are available to relish, read and even perform if you wish! Alongside a range of materials on hand to inspire you to freely make, create and invent something to take home. Not forgetting the Building Family Trail to explore the Library through puzzles, drawings and games. Families are welcome to drop in at any point during the afternoon. Stay for 10 minutes or the full four hours! 12-4pm. www.bl.uk Continued on page 18

Families North West London 17

What’s On Continued from page 17

Tue 26 Mar – Tue 4 Jun – Living With A Teenager (HA1) A course for every parent with a teenager or adolescent aged 12+. Topics include understanding and acknowledging the needs of pre-teens and teenagers; negotiating and setting limits; finding ways to communicate effectively, and peer pressure. At Hope Harrow from 7-9pm.

020 88637319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk Sat 30 Mar - Harrow Mum2Mum Market Sale (HA3) The next mum2mummarket nearly new sale in Harrow is at Weald Rise Primary School from 2-4pm. Entry is £2 on the door and everyone welcome. Buy top quality preloved baby and children’s goods at a fraction of the high street price. All great brands in top condition. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk harrow@mum2mummarket.co.uk Sat 30 Mar - Junior Challenge 2019 (WD18) The Junior Challenge is a road race (fun run) held annually by Watford Harriers at Cassiobury Park. This is open to all children in primary school and secondary school years 7-9. This is also regardless of ability and a great opportunity for athletes to represent their schools in a competitive event. There will be two races in the following age categories: U8s & U10s-U14s. www.watfordharriers.org.uk/junior-challenge Sat 30th Mar - Butterflies Table Top Sale & Community Coffee Mornings (UB10) Table Top Sale & Community Coffee Morning at Ickenham Village Hall.

Admission free to a variety of tables selling, Crafts, Jewellery, Pre-loved items, Books, Homemade Cakes, Raffle, Tombola & Refreshments. Meet friends for Coffee & Cake. 9:30am to 1pm.

ButterfliesIckenham@yahoo.com Sun 31 Mar - Mum goes free for Mother’s Day at WWT London Wetland Centre (SW13) Spring is the ideal time to visit London Wetland Centre, with the flowers beginning to bloom and ducklings waddling after their mothers. Treat your mum to a relaxing day out with a walk to watch the wildlife flitting among the gardens and meadows. Your mum gets free admission to the Centre when accompanied by a paying child or adult. Just quote ‘Mother’s Day’ at admissions. www.wwt.org.uk

APRIL Wed 3 Apr – Colourdash in Aid of Michael Sobell Hospice (UB8) Run, walk or dance 5km in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice Charity. At Brunel University London at 3pm. www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk/colourdash-2019 Fri 5 Apr – Sun 5 Jan - Beasts of London (EC2Y) Beasts of London is the Museum of London’s next major experience catered especially for families. It will bring to life the history of animals in the city told from the unique perspective of the animals themselves. You will be guided by various animal characters through time, from the Roman era through medieval London and right up to present day. Discover how animals – from lions and elephants, to horses, rats and pigeons - have shaped the city and its beastly history. Ages 7+. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

Sat 6 Apr - Little Grand Tour Sat 20 Apr - Community Arts & Craft Fair – Easter Special (NW10) This special event at the Brent Hub Community Centre will feature a large group of local talented artists exhibiting and selling their unique and interesting creations including jewellery, hand-crafted products, art, woodcraft, accessories, therapies, foods, books, fashion and much much more.

A nice opportunity for the community to find an interesting or special gift in a fun and relaxed atmosphere this Easter. 12pm - 7pm Free entry. www.brenthub.co.uk Thu 25 Apr - Conservation Interactive Exhibit (SE10) Drop by to the National Maritime Museum and try your hand at some interactive conservation. From globe making to identifying pests that damage our collection, these fun short activities are a taster into the essential behind the scenes work undertaken by the conservation team. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 27 Apr - Puzzle and Toy Fair (WD5) Good as new puzzles for all ages from young children to adults. Some board games - all ages. Good as new toys - mostly suitable for younger children. All at very reasonable prices - from 50p upwards.

Tea/coffee/juice and cakes available. All proceeds to The Friends of St Lawrence. 10am - 1pm at St Lawrence’s Church, Abbots Langley.

Free entry. www.abbotslangley.org.uk/home/friends-of-st-lawrence.html

Easter Holidays Mon 1 – Tue 30 Apr - Atomic 50 – Time Travels in Tin (E10) A brand new immersive experience at Leyton Sports Ground for children aged 7 – 11. Children will clock in as factory workers before being led by performers through the mysterious Atomic 50 ghost factory into workshops past and present. Exploring different rooms and installations, children will discover the history of tin making, learn about its use as a more sustainable alternative to plastic & produce their own tin objects on the factory line to be displayed as part of a spectacular finale sculpture. www.blackhorseworkshop.co.uk/atomic-50 Sat 6 Apr - Sea Signs (SE10) Go aboard Cutty Sark for a fun-filled day of family craft activities, storytelling, character performances and guided tours for deaf and hearing families.

Activities are either BSL-led or supported by BSL interpreters.

11.30am-4pm. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 6 Apr - Little Grand Tour (HP18) Waddesdon have teamed up with The Little Grand Tour to introduce children to the beautiful world of Waddesdon’s collections. Waddesdon is the first country house to welcome these art wizards, whose fun tours make the art world accessible to the next generation of art fanatics.

Includes snacks, worksheets, merchandise and postcards. Parents do not accompany children and can explore Waddesdon during the workshop. 7-12 yrs, 10.15am-12.15pm. www.waddesdon.org.uk Sat 6 – Sun 14 Apr - Now Play This (WC2R) Annual games festival Now Play This returns to Somerset House for its biggest edition ever, with even more exciting hands-on gameplay for all ages to enjoy. This year’s extended festival focuses on the idea of community, exploring how dedicated communities formed

18 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On amongst players and game-makers alike feed into the creative process behind some of the most inventive and thought-provoking games of today.

This year’s festival also features two free outdoor games, open to all visitors of Somerset House. www.somersethouse.org.uk Sat 6 – Sun 21 Apr - Gnome Hunt (HA2) Those naughty Gnome’s are back again at Headstone Manor! Can you find all of the gnomes and solve their puzzle? 10am - 4pm, available during Museum opening hours (please note that the Museum is closed on Monday’s). www.headstonemanor.org Sat 6 – Mon 22 Apr – Easter Holidays at Waddesdon Manor (HP18) Over the Easter holidays, celebrate nature together by taking part in spring activities throughout the Waddesdon grounds.

Challenge yourself with an outdoor trail, explore the Woodland Playground, and enjoy a treat or two from the Treaterie. 10am-4pm. www.waddesdon.org.uk Sun 7 Apr - Fly the Flag (SE10) Learn how to send a coded message using signal flags and design your own flag in this fun family workshop at the Cutty Sark.

What will your messages say? 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. www.rmg.co.uk Mon 8 - Fri 12 Apr - Easter Crafts (HP4) It’s your chance to get creative this at Ashridge Estate this Easter. Make and decorate your own bird feeder to welcome back migrating birds to your garden. £2 per craft.

10am-4pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge Mon 8 - Thu 18 Apr - Eggs Marks The Spot (EC1R) Follow the Easter egg trail at the Bank of England Museum to find the brightly decorated eggs that have been placed around. Make a note of where you find them and finirsh the trail to win a small prize. You can also enjoy Easter crafts during your visit. The Easter event and activities are free. You don’t have to book in advance. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Mon 8 – Mon 22 Apr Animal Easter Trail (NW9) The Easter Bunny has lots of his animal friends in the RAF Museum, go and find them and find out why they might be hiding underneath the aircraft. You will receive a delicious chocolate prize when you find all the animals. Tickets are £3 per child and can be purchased at the shop on arrival to Hangar 1.

The trail runs from 11am to 3pm, (last chance to buy tickets 2.30pm). www.rafmuseum.org.uk Tue 9 Apr - Star Baker: House Challenge (WC1N) Does the smell of baking make you feel at home? Work with artist

familiesonline.co.uk

Anne Harild at the Foundling Museum to bake biscuits in the shape of fantastical houses, then use them to construct imaginative and inspiring structures. Suitable for age 5+. The workshops are free for children and up to two accompanying adults, and include complimentary admission to the Museum both before and after the session.

Book a place on the day. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Tue 9 – Wed 10 & Tue 16 – Wed 17 Apr - Out Of This World (SE10) Take a family trip to the Moon with a planetarium show, interactive quiz and immersive virtual reality activity at the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Start your orientation in the state of the art digital planetarium, continue your mission with a brain bending quiz and finally take a virtual step onto the lunar surface to feel what it’s like to be a moonwalker. This session includes rock handling for a tactile experience of how the surface of the Moon looks and feels up close and a chance to discuss your findings with Astronomers. 10am12.30pm, ages 7+. www.rmg.co.uk Thu 11 Apr - Toy Homes (WC1N) Thinking about how important homes are as places for children to feel safe and happy, work with artist Anne Harild to make a roll-along home to take with you on your travels. Suitable for age 5+. Workshops are free for children and up to two accompanying adults, and include complimentary admission to the Museum both before and after the session.

Book a place on the day. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Sat 13 Apr - Morning Stars (SE10) This early morning show at the Royal Observatory Greenwich is for children with an Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) and their families and carers.

Explore the night sky and find out live from a Royal Observatory Astronomer what is visible on the night of your visit and the month ahead, with opportunities to ask questions afterwards.

10-10:30am, ages 5+. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 13 Apr - The Spectacular Science Show (N6) Explore the strange and magical properties of matter with fireballs, fire tornadoes and amazing chemical reactions! A show for all the family, children and grown-ups alike at Lauderdale House. There will be a short, free children’s arts and crafts session afterwards for all audiences, no extra ticket or booking required. www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk Sun 14 Apr - Easter Bonnets (HA2) Create an egg-citing Easter Bonnet to wear whilst searching for gnomes at Headstone Manor! Free artist led family fun suitable for ages 5+ and their grown-ups. Drop in any time between 11am-3pm www.headstonemanor.org Continued on page 20

Families North West London 19

What’s On Continued from page 19

Sun 14 Apr – Eggtastic: Egg Hunt and Egg Decorating (N3) An eggtastic drop-in session and eggcellent Egg Hunt at Stephens House and Garden. Let your little explorers follow the clues on a quest for eggs and then they can have lots of fun decorating their own! Start your hunt any time between 2.30 and 4.30pm. Polystyrene egg and decorating materials provided. Limited availability booking essential. www.stephenshouseandgardens.com Tue 16 Apr - Music for Bedrooms (WC1N) Get creative in this composition workshop at the Foundling Museum. Led by composer Charlotte Harding, explore the identities expressed in the bedrooms featured in the exhibition, then create and perform your own musical creation. Suitable for age 5+. Workshops are free for children and up to two accompanying adults, and include complimentary admission to the Museum both before and after the session. Book a place on the day. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Tue 16 – Thu 18 Apr - Dashing Dragons (SE10) Visit this artist-led workshop at the Cutty Sark, and learn how to create your own dragon inspired by the ship’s voyages to China and Wales. 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. www.rmg.co.uk Fri 19 – Sat 20 Apr - Easter Trail (SG3) Children can follow the Easter Trail symbols hidden around the Garden’s spring flowers, within the Edwardian maze and among the trail of 72-life sized dinosaurs at Knebworth House.

Complete the trail sheet to claim an Easter surprise! www.knebworthhouse.com Sat 20 Apr - Morning Explorers: Exploring Buildings (EC2Y) Explore the Museum of London at this relaxed early opening, sensitive to the needs of children with autistic spectrum conditions. The galleries will be open exclusively for Morning explorer families from 8.30-10am, alongside activities for the whole family such as object handling, arts and crafts and a sensory space. www.museumoflondon.org.u

20 Families North West London

All Stars Cricket Sun 21 Apr - Easter Egg Decorating & The Great Egg Roll (N6) Go along to Lauderdale House on Easter Sunday for their traditional Easter eggstravaganza - a fun and creative family event with egg decorating, a mini egg hunt and the great egg roll. Lots of prizes to be won! An outdoors event, so wrap up warm and bring a picnic rug to sit on while decorating your eggs on the Tea Lawn. Starts at 11am – advanced booking recommended. www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk Sun 21 – Mon 22 Apr - Easter Medieval Jousting (SG3) The turrets and towers of Knebworth House provide a spectacular backdrop to the costumed knights on majestic warhorses galloping at full tilt across the arena in a fantastic display of horsemanship. The crowds are encouraged to cheer and jeer the Knights of Arkley as they demonstrate their skills in hand-to-hand combat.There are two scheduled jousting displays on both days at 12.30 pm and 2.30 pm. www.knebworthhouse.com

May Thu 2 May – Bring Your Own Baby Comedy (HA5) The UK’s premier baby friendly comedy club, featuring the funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV. Takes place at Harrow Arts Centre, which has a fully licensed bar, coffees to die for, and the most fantastic performance space, with lots of room for buggy parking, and for your babies to crawl around! www.byobcomedy.com

Fri 3rd May - South Herts Breast Cancer Now (WD7) South Herts Breast Cancer Now group are holding a Shopping Day at The Radlett Centre. Over 25 stall holders selling everything from gifts, clothing, homeware and jewellery.

Entry is £5 with all proceeds going to Breast Cancer Now. Come along and support this amazing charity.

More information is on our Facebook page - South Herts Breast Cancer Now. From May 2019 - Join All Stars Cricket Today! (various) All Stars Cricket is a programme aimed at children aged 5-8 years old to give them a great first experience in cricket. Sessions are accredited by the England & Wales Cricket Board and delivered nationwide at over 2,000 centres.

All Stars Cricket will help your child develop key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in too and help create #BigMoments you’ll both treasure! Following successful registration, All Stars Cricketers will receive a brand-new kit bag full of goodies to help them get their summer of cricket started and fully look the part when they attend their 8 weekly sessions.

This year we have a brand-new Cricket World Cup themed activity book that is full of top tips, games and, it’s a great place to keep those weekly stickers to celebrate your All Star’s achievements. Plus, it’s all delivered straight to your door.

To find out more about how to get involved this summer, simply visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk and get your place booked as sessions begin May 2019.

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 21

Camps and Activities

CAMPS and ACTIVITIES Whether you are looking for childcare to cover term breaks or something to break up the monotony of days at home, we’ve found a fantastic collection of local choices for the whole family!

Aqua Vie are doing Regular weekly Tues Wed and Sunday classes in Bushey during term times. Spaces for new babies Tues, Wed and new group Adult swim classes. Learn mindful effortless swimming in a calm environment in warm water.

Use less effort, swim further and experience the joy of water. Email office@aqua-vie.com tel 01923 245 773 www.Aqua-Vie.com Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) Children’s Arts and Crafts activity club ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and holidays.

Parent Toddler Group (aged 1-4 yrs); After-school/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs). Contact to book your place: Keshma: 07419343105 E: Keshma.artzania@ gmail.com Cinnamon Square (WD3) Baking workshops take place during the school holidays.

Classes include chocolate making, classic cake making, cupcakes and an all-round baking workshop. The 2 hour hands-on sessions, which combine learning with fun, are suitable for 5 years and upwards. Everything the children make they take home with them including recipe sheets to continue baking at home. www.cinnamonsquare.com DiscoG Coding Academy will be running a series of hands-on coding bootcamps on the Python programming language for children aged 6 - 8, 9 - 14, GCSE and A Level students. Join us to learn the language that writes the future.

Call Gerard on: 07767300940 www.discogcodingacademy.com Location: 504 Kenton Lane, Harrow, HA3 8RD Echo’s Equestrian Centre - Easter Hoof Camp from 3rd – 7th and 10th – 13th of April. Ages 5+ - get the chance to experience what it would be like to own your own pony. Each

22 Families North West London

day consists of approx. 1 hour group riding, lots of hands on stable management and fun and creative theory. In addition to seasonal related arts and crafts, there will be an eater egg hunt.

9am-5pm. www.echosequestrian.co.uk Forever Green Forest School: Family Forest School. Sessions in the woods for the whole family during the school holidays. Activities include fire lighting, toasting some delicious food on the fire, make a woodland bracelet or keyring, fun games and more! Places must be booked and paid for in advance. www.forevergreenforestschool.com Fun Fest Holiday Club-Watford at Holywell Primary School offers children a choice about spending their holidays. With an exciting menu of activities to choose children can plan their own individual holiday programme, developing social and physical skills. Fun Fest -Watford is Ofsted registered for children from 3 years, run by qualified and experienced childcare practitioners along with sports coaches/ enthusiastic students.

Tel: 07892721317 www.fun-fest.co.uk watfordoffice@funfestholidayclub.co.uk Future Stars Theatre Arts (HA5) Run an amazing Easter and Summer Academy each year which is held at The Harrow Arts Centre. Students work towards professional performances, firstly to increase their confidence and secondly for parents to see first-hand how their child’s ability is developing. Their shows are exceptional, be prepared to be amazed at what your child achieves at Future Stars! Give your child a confident start! info@futurestarstheatrearts.co.uk 07912538656 www.futurestars.co.uk

Future Stars Theatre Arts Harrow Arts Centre - Captain Calamity Workshop: 48 Hours to Show Time! This Easter holiday, a group of young people will be given the opportunity of a life time. Imagine how much fun your child will have working alongside multi award winning and Guinness World Record Breaking Children’s Entertainer Captain Calamity and his production team together with technicians from the Harrow Arts Centre in an amazing joint enterprise. Wed 17 - Thurs 18 Apr, 10am-3pm. £95 For Both Days. Ages 7-12yrs. www.harrowarts.com Hertfordshire Sports Village have a range of activities over the holidays for children aged 0 – 18. Activities include Multi-Sports Day Camps, Unlimited Soft Play, Swimming and much more. An ideal childcare solution for working parents during school holidays, parents can drop children off between 8-9am and pick-up between 4-5pm. www.hertssportsvillage.co.uk Holidaytime Holiday Club – Holiday club open 7.30am-6pm for children aged 2-13 years. Indoor and outdoor space. , sports, arts and crafts, cooking, trips, workshops, free time.

Qualified and experienced staff. Full day, half day booking, Childcare vouchers except & tax free childcare. 07794078452 Elmgrove road Harrow. holidays@activetime.co.uk www.activetime.co.uk Huzzah Performing Arts - Looking for an Easter Holiday Camp that has your child’s wellbeing at heart? Huzzah Performing Arts and Mindfulness Easter Holiday Clubs are the perfect answer. For calm, creative & confident kids. Ages 4 - 12. April 8th - 12th & 15th - 18th. St Helen’s Church Hall, W10. wwwhuzzahperformingarts.com.

02039767171 Ignite Tennis (HA3) A great way for kids to stay active and use their brains by learning a skill.

Staying Fit and Healthy during the school holidays is quite a challenge these days, so join in this fun holiday programme. 3 Camps accommodating 3yrs – 16yrs. Main Camp Tennis in the morning and a mixture of multiple sports in the afternoon. Easter courses from April 8th – 12th and April 15th – 18th.

May Half Term course 27th – 31st May. info@ ignitetennis.co.uk 07852 180905 ignitetennis.co.uk Little Kickers Courses running throughout the summer. Football training for kids from 18 months to under 7 years. Ruislip, Pinner, Harrow, Harefield, Rickmansworth & Watford jodiesloan@ littlekickers.co.uk 0208 123 9346. Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk 0208 201 1084. Bushey & Harrow HA3 0208 422 0676 www. littlekickers.co.uk Monkey Music workshops are a popular way to keep children entertained during the holidays. Unlike the regular classes where children are strictly grouped according to age, the holiday workshops cater for a mixed age group of children. Older siblings love joining in the fun and we also welcome friends and visitors. Book early to avoid disappointment. 0208 427 6595 www. monkeymusic.co.uk

NumberWorks‘nWords Maths and English tuition classes which will target identified needs to improve achievement levels. Catering for all levels from 4 to 16 years old. Specialised programmes for 7+, 11+ and SATs. www. numberworks.co.uk 0208 868 7672 eastcote@ numberworks.com The Olivier School (HA3) Run high quality courses for primary-aged children, including Easter School & Summer School. The Olivier School offers outstanding courses for children aged between 3 – 11 years old. They supplement a child’s primary education through carefully constructed programmes delivered by highly experienced and qualified teachers. www.olivierschool.co.uk Perform - Alice in Wonderland: Perform’s three day Easter holiday course for 4-10s. Your 4 –10 year old can have fun tumbling down the rabbit-hole into the topsy-turvy world of Wonderland. A dynamic team of actors, singers and dancers will inspire and encourage your child as they create a thrilling performance for family and friends. www.perform.org.uk/holidays 4 - 10 yrs. 15 - 17 April. Three day courses from 10am to 3pm. St Luke’s Parish Hall, Love Lane, Pinner, HA5 3EX T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@ perform.org.uk Raviv Practice London - Prevent regression in the school holidays- Keep your child’s brain stimulated and improve academic performance during the holidays. Raviv Practice London offers three evidence-based computer programs that present the perfect compromise between play and work. One-to-one intervention scientifically proven to improve your child’s grades. Contact Usha Patel -Raviv Practice Londonon 07766 837 616 Stagecoach - Children and Teenagers can make friends, have fun and develop some great new skills at the fabulous Stagecoach Holiday Drama Clubs and Workshops for 6-18 yrs. At the end of their time at the Stagecoach holiday workshops, the students will join together to showcase their new-found singing, acting and dancing skills to family and friends. www.stagecoach.co.uk Sylvia Young Theatre School Mon 8th - Thurs 11th Apr. This fun filled busy four days offers a combined course of theatre skills.

On the first day students are introduced to Drama, Audition Technique, Singing, Singing, Microphone Technique, Street Dance, Jazz and Basic Circus Skills. From the second day students can choose to either follow their groups set sessions or the additional optional classes in Singing/Drama/Jazz.

The day commences at 10.15am and ends at 4pm.

Parents are invited to visit classes on the last day of course. At 1 Nutford Place, W1H. www.sylviayoungtheatreschool.co.uk Type IT! Typing Crash Courses for children age 10+. Learn to touch type in just one week with our fun, interactive tutor-led typing courses. Courses running during half terms and Easter and Summer holidays. To book call 020 8434 7111. www.typeitforkids.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

What’s On Children’s Theatre We couldn’t fit them all in! More online www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check with the venue directly before setting out.

The Alban Arena Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk Tue 16 –Thu 18 Apr - Zog Large in size, and keen in nature, Zogis so eager to win a golden star at Madam Dragon’s school, where dragons learn all the things that dragons need to know. Luckily, the plucky Princess Pearl patches him up ready to face his biggest challenge yet…aduel with Gadabout the Great!

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog comes to life in this magical adaptation with a sumptuous folk score featuring live musicians Tue 23 –Wed 24 Apr - Dear Zoo Rod Campbell’s best-selling lift the flap book has delighted generations of young readers since it was first published in 1982 and has sold more than 8 million copies worldwide! This production will delight all those who have read the book (both young and old) as it unfolds with childengaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction. Ages 2+

Artsdepot 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk Sat 6 - Wed 10 Apr - Elmer the Patchwork Elephant Show Based on the classic book series by David McKee, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant is a celebration of individuality and the power of laughter! The show’s subtle message that it is always best to be yourself, combined with the vibrant colour and cheeky humour of the main character, a great show for children of all ages. Ages 2+ Sun 7 Apr - Comedy Club 4 Kids Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been getting the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit to do their thing for an audience of children and their families… but without the rude bits! In fact, it’s just like a normal comedy club, but it’s on in the day, kids are allowed in, and thus there is a higher than usual chance of heckles like “why is that your face!?” Ages 6+ Sun 14 Apr - Young Herbert’s Horrors Young Herbert is a little horror. Living on a boat should be the ideal life for a wannabe pirate, but the boat’s grounded until Herbert can learn to tidy his cabin, eat his greens and be more polite. A big storm brews up when Herbert is sent home from school and Mum calls on Great Uncle Albatross - navy captain and scourge of all pirates - to warn him of the dangers of rebellion. Featuring swashbuckling verse, jaunty music, gallows humour and the obligatory parrot, Justin Coe’s brand new spoken word show for children, following the highly popular Big Wow, Small Wonder. Ages 4-9 yrs Mon 15 -Tue 16 Apr -The Chit Chat Chalk Show The Chit Chat Chalk Show follows Kiko, a confused young girl, struggling to understand how she feels about the strange new world she lives in. With the help of her quirky new friends, she embarks upon a quest to discover the mixture of emotions and colours that make her unique. A charming, physical show, packed with interaction for families. Ages 3-8 yrs

The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes. 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Sun 28 Apr -Beauty And The Beast Belle lives a quiet provincial life in the village of Ooh La La until her father accidentally stumbles across a terrifying Beast and she is taken captive. Now it is up to Fairy Enchante, the village idiot Wally and his mother Dame Dolly to pit their wits against the the evil Enchantress and rescue Belle from the Beast. Prepare yourselves for another all-singing, all-dancing, laugh-a-minute ride through the fun and frolics of panto land - arriving Easter 2019.

Chickenshed Chase Side Southgate N14.

020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk Sat 13 -Thu 18 Apr -The Tigon and the Liger Tyler the tigon was terribly rare. A big cat like him isn’t found everywhere. Unique from his ears to his tail to his tum, his dad was a tiger, a lion his mum… The Tales from the Shed team proudly

familiesonline.co.uk

present a brand new show about appreciating your differences, and learning to love the skin you’re in. Based on the book by Keilly Swift. Ages 3-7 yrs

Compass Theatre Glebe Avenue, Ickenham UB10 01895 673 0200 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Wed 10 –Sun 14 Apr - The Wonderful Wizard of Oz The exciting, entertaining and timeless classic of The WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ brought to life by the same production company who produce the magical Compass Pantomimes. Young Dorothy Gale finds herself whisked somewhere over the rainbow to the magical Munchkin Land by a Kansas cyclone. Follow her journey along the yellow brick road to the land of Oz. There will be an opportunity for the audience to meet members of the cast, in the foyer, after every show.

Harrow Arts Centre Hatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com Tue 9 Apr - Snow White, Rose Red, Bear Brown Snow White and Rose Red have lived in the forest since they were Babes in the Wood. Bought up by their hardworking Mother to be kind, caring and forest fluent. When their quiet life is interrupted by a friendly bear a newchapter begins. But why has the bear chosen them as playfellows? Why is there sadness in his eyes? And who on earth is that rude little man with a ridiculously long beard that they keep bumping in to? All questions will be untangled in this new show from the Woods of Widdershins, using puppets, storytelling, original music and a fantastical fairytale forest. Ages 4+ Tue 16 Apr - Captain Calamity: The Big Clean Up Captain Calamity is on a mission to save Calamity Cove from an environmental disaster. Using magic, interactive games, giant balloons, spectacular bubbles, puppetry and songs, the Captain his friends and you are invited to help save the day.

Ages 3+

Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com Fri 1 Mar-Sat 20 Apr -The Flying Bath When everyone has left the house in the morning, the bath toys spring into action and head off on exciting adventures in their magical flying bath! From giving a muddy piglet a shower to putting out a fire for a frightened baboon, they have water at the ready for any emergency –as long as they’re home for the children’s bath time at the end of the day. Julia Donaldson and David Roberts’ playful and adventurous story splashes intolife in this adaptation featuring catchy songs, quirky bath toys and everyday heroes. Ages 2-5 yrs

Pump House Lower Watford High Street, Watford WD17 01923 241 362 www.pumphouse.info Fri 22–Sat 23 Mar - Flour Babies In this one act play, when the annual school science fair comes round, Mr Cartwright’s underachieving class don’t get to work on the Soap Factory, the Maggot Farm or the Exploding Custard Tins. To their intense disgust they get the Flour Babies -sweet little six-pound bags of flour that must be cared for at all times.

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 (During the summer the Barge is at Richmond, TW10) 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Until Sun 14 Apr - My Shadow and Me Drew Colby A fun and engaging show for children and family audiences made of shadows and reflected light.

Sat 30 Mar - Sun 28 Apr -The Insect Circus Visiting company String Theatre invites the audience to forget reality and become immersed in the strange and beautiful world of the Insect Circus.

The Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Sat 6 Apr - The Amazing Adventures of Pinocchio Based on Carlo Collodi’sfantastical children’s book, this magical story leaps off the page and onto the stage in a vibrant re-telling of Pinocchio’s extraordinary adventures. Packed with comedy, audience interaction, and a completely original score guaranteed to have you singingalong from start to finish, this high energy musical promises to be the perfect treat for the whole family. Ages 4+ Wed 17 Apr - Alice in Wonderland Join Alice down the rabbit hole in her magical adventures through Wonderland in this brand-new staging ofLewis Carroll’s family favourite ‘Alice In Wonderland.’ Goand join the tea party and meet the Mad Hatter, The White Rabbit, Cheshire Cat and the Queen of Hearts plus many moreexciting colourful characters! This exciting and playful take on the tale features a professional cast of energetic performers, catchy new songs and lots of humour that will entertain and delight the whole family!

Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street, SE1.

020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com Thu 21 Mar –Sun 28 Apr -The Show In Which Hopefully Nothing Happens Welcome to the most boring show in history: an actor who never gets to perform and a security guard who just hopes nothing will occur. Created in the Netherlands, this carefully crafted, absurdist masterpiece of hope, humour and failure has been adored by critics and children across Europe, the US and Canada for the last 12 years.

Ages 6-10yrs Tue 26 Mar –Sun 28 Apr -The Polar Bears Go, Go, Go! Join the two very loveable but slightly hapless Polar Bears on their holiday adventures. Will they ever reachtheir destination? Or are they just going around in circles? Have your ticket ready, find your seat, fasten your seatbelt and anchors aweigh –take off and go, go, go! Ages2 -5 yrs

Watford Palace Theatre Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Sat 13 Apr -David Baddiel’s ANiMALCOLM The Musical Malcolm doesn’t like animals, which is a problem because his family love them, in fact, they’re wild about them. Their house is full of pets of all shapes and sizes, but what it’s NOT full of is stuff Malcolm likes. Such as the laptop he wanted for his birthday. The only bright spot on the horizon is the Year Six school trip, which Malcolm never thought his parents would pay for.

And yet there he is, on the bus, heading to……a farm. What follows is a school trip like no other, where Malcolm begins to understand animals more deeply than anyone. But will he end up the same as before? Because sometimes the hardest thing to become is yourself.

Tue 16 Apr -Aliens Love Underpants Aliens love underpants Of every shape and size But there are no underpants in space So here’s a big surprise! This zany and hilarious tale based on the best-selling children’s book is wonderfully brought to life on stage for the very first time. With stunning effects, madcap action, original music (and lots of aliens of course!) this fantastically fresh and funny production will delight the whole family. You’ll laugh your PANTS off! Ages 3+

Watford Colosseum Rickmansworth Road Watford WD17 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Sat 6 -Sun 7 Apr -In The Night Garden Live Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends are back in their brand new live show Igglepiggle’s Busy Day! Join Igglepiggle as he looks for his friends in the Night Garden by following their funny sounds until he finds them all! You’ll see all your favourite characters beautifully brought to life with full-size costumes, magical puppets, and enchanting music. The show lasts just under an hour and it’s a completely new production for the very first In the Night Garden Live UK theatre tour.

Families North West London 23