Families NW London Magazine Mar/Apr 2018 issue 120

IN THIS ISSUE

Children’s Party Planning Easter and Summer Camps and Activities Education and Parenting

Issue 120 March/April 2018

familiesonline.co.uk

WATFORD BUSHEY RICKMANSWORTH

M25

STANMORE

HATCH END NORTHWOOD

Welcome to the March/April issue!

HAREFIELD

RUISLIP

ICKENHAM

NORTHOLT

CONTACT US: Families North West London Magazine Editors: Heather Waddington and Janine Mergler

UXBRIDGE

EDGWARE

HARROW WEALD

PINNER

HARROW

KINGSBURY

WEMBLEY PARK SUDBURY

A40

WEMBLEY

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

P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF T: 01923 237 004

Published seven times a year.

For families from birth to twelve.

E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

UPCOMING ISSUE:

Listings and Features Editor:

May/June 2018 - Summer Camps and Activities 2018!

Deadline: 29 March 2018

Anna Blackshaw E: Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

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

IN THIS ISSUE: 6 Teaching independent learning

7 Motivating achievement 8 Schools Open Days 9 Party Planning Guide!

13 Easter Crafts 16 Clubs, Classes and Activities directory

Cover image: depositphotos.com

18 What’s On

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

22 Easter and Summer Camps

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.

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.

2 Families North West London

M1

familiesonline.co.uk

WEST HENDON DOLLIS HILL

BRONDESBUR PARK

QUEENS PARK

WILLESDEN KILBURN

NEWS

New Nursery for Harrow!

Activetime Children’s Activities Ltd has been running Holiday Clubs and After School Clubs in Harrow Since 2007 and are now proud and excited to announce the opening of their brand-new Day Nursery, in April 2018 - located in Central Harrow with two main train stations with less than a 15 minute walk. (Harrow-on the Hill and Harrow and Wealdstone). There is also space for parking onsite for drop offs and pickups. The site will cater for children between the ages of 2-5 years, 07.30am-6.30 pm Monday to Friday, 50 weeks of the year with both full and part time care available to suit the needs of local children and their parents. As a further service to parents in the local community, they will also be offering ‘Breakfast Club’ and an ‘After School Club’ for children between 3-11 years from local schools. Regulated by OFSTED and, following the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum, the planning will be catered to the children’s individual needs, keeping them engaged and interested in all areas of learning.

They will be holding Open days in March. Please contact them to book your space. t:07575 801623 e:Nursery@activetime.co.uk w: www.activetimedaynursery.co.uk

Zollipops ‘After You Eat Treat’ could help prevent tooth decay Makers of Zollipops claim they work naturally to lower the acidity levels in the mouth.

Elevated acidity provides an environment in which bacteria can thrive, which leads to cavities and weakening of tooth enamel.

Adjusting the pH level in the mouth inhibits the growth of bacteria, allowing teeth to remineralize faster for stronger, healthier teeth.

They were a firm favourite for taste in our house and are endorsed by local dentist Alan, Hirschowitz who says “These have healthy, natural sweeteners that lessen the crazy amounts of sugar we are giving to children.”

Zollipops are currently available on Amazon and direct from www.zollipops.co.uk

Incredible first year for

All Star Cricket All Stars Cricket was launched in March 2017.

The programme has had an incredible first year with over 1,500 All Stars Cricket centres delivering the programme to over 37,000 kids The programme is a paid for product that has a RRP of £40, although this can vary across the Country. The cost includes the 8 week All Stars Cricket programme (1 x hour session per week for 8 weeks) and the pack; including a bat, ball, rucksack, cap and t shirt (personalised with their name) – all delivered to your door.

Aldenham Excellent Again!

Celebrations are the order of the day at both Aldenham Senior School and Aldenham Prep School following the recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection.

The School is delighted to again reach the highest possible outcome with full compliance in every standard and the top rating of EXCELLENT. The Headmaster Mr James Fowler congratulated everyone: “This is a very creditable reflection of the work of every one of the school staff, both teaching and support staff, the way in which the pupils respond to what is offered for them, and of course the support for the School by the parents.”

Mrs Vicky Gocher, Headmistress of the Prep School added “It is wonderful for all the pupils and staff, from the Nursery to Year 6, to have the essence of Aldenham recognised in such a way.” www.AldenhamPrep.com

The perfect start to performing arts A new term lies just around the corner and with more children attending Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools than ever before, there has never been a better time to take to the stage than now.

Performing arts classes are hugely enjoyable for children of all ages and they are an excellent way to build confidence and social skills. With schools in Bushey, Harrow, Hendon and with brand new afternoon classes in Watford, why not book a two-week trial today? Visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.

Come on, get Jumpin’ Jump In Trampoline Parks offer the most exciting jump experience for kids and adults including drop slides, tumble tracks, dodgeball courts, trapeze swings, rope ladders, giant air bag, performance trampolines, balance beams plus fitness classes, toddler mornings and after school sessions, available weekly.

They have two fantastic venues – Enfield and Elstree/Borehamwood - both offering a brand-new Tuck In menu and open 7 days a week.

Drop in to JumpIn Enfield or JumpIn Elstree for tasty meal or snack and refuel after a great bouncing workout.

To book visit www.gojumpin.com

Centres will be encouraged to deliver their programmes from May 11th through to July but some Centres may start slightly later than the 11th May. For more information or to register for a summer of #BigMoments please visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 3

NEWS New attraction at Paradise Wildlife Park This Easter visitors to Paradise Wildlife Park will be able to meet some lifesize animatronic Dinosaurs at the incredible ‘World of Dinosaurs’ attraction.

It will be one of the UK’s biggest and most spectacular animatronic dinosaur attractions, set in acres of natural woodland.

It will feature thirty lifesize, moving and roaring dinosaurs – a real thrill for any dinosaur adventurer!

Paradise Wildlife Park is home to over 800 animals and is the only zoo in the UK to home five different big cat species. They also look after one of the largest collections of small monkeys in the UK as well as the largest Anaconda. Visitors to the park can choose from twenty different animal talks, feeds and shows daily.

Set in the beautiful surroundings of Broxbourne Woods, Paradise Wildlife Park is voted Hertfordshire’s No.1 Outdoor Attraction by Trip Advisor.

Book tickets online and use code TREX10 to get 10% off entry. Find out more at www.pwpark.com

Free residential camps for children with health challenges Over The Wall aims to present children with health challenges - and their families - with the opportunity to experience the magic of camp through activities such as kayaking, fishing, climbing, swimming, dancing, taking part in challenge courses, archery, arts & crafts, talent shows, discos and much more. They will also be recruiting for local volunteers for its camps, as well as nurses, doctors and paramedics. If you can help, register your interest now by calling Over The Wall on 02392 477110.

If you have, or know of a child, or family that would benefit from the Over The Wall’s camp, (or you are interested in volunteering) - you can contact Over The Wall or apply directly at www.otw.org.uk

Karate for everyone Over the last few years, there has been an increase in the number of innocent people assaulted. When you stop to think about this, it is easy to understand why there is a reasonable case for learning a method of self-defence. In karate, children react to discipline very well, and are encouraged to develop self-discipline.

Etiquette is placed on politeness, and respect for their fellow students, instructors and parents. They soon become aware that good manners consist of having consideration for others.

Tiska Karate classes in Harrow, Wembley and Southall are run by Mr H Patel who is a black belt 4th Dan and has been teaching karate for over 12 years.

They have been especially designed with the complete beginner in mind and families are made very welcome. The first four classes are free, so why don’t you come along and have a go.

Tiska karate is currently offering the first four lessons FREE for new students.

To find out more visit www.tiskakarate-harrow.co.uk or www.tiskakaratewembley.co.uk

ROXETH MEAD SCHOOL ESTABLISHED 1859

Independent school for boys and girls between 3 years and 7+ ◆◆ Small classes ◆◆ Dedicated staff ◆◆ Excellent academic record ◆◆ Caring and supportive atmosphere ◆◆ Happy, considerate and confident children Vacancies sometimes available for 5 & 6 year olds.

Contact the Headteacher

Tel: 020 8422 2092

E-mail: info@roxethmead.com www.roxethmead.com Buckholt House, 25 Middle Road, Harrow HA2 0HW

4 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 5

Education

The Importance of Independent Learning in a modern and practical curriculum How a modern curriculum should seek to inspire independence, because it’s a difficult skill to ‘teach’

G

iven the pace of life in the modern world, seeing children develop seems to be something that seemingly catches us off guard: From the simple “Gosh – haven’t they grown”, to “Wow – they’re walking already!” or “I can’t believe they’re starting School”. Those who work in Schools and Nurseries are incredibly fortunate to see smaller developments every day, and for many, they represent the most validating part of the role.

What’s peculiar however is that most of these observations refer to developments in a child’s skills and abilities, but then once they start School, we become blinkered by rigidly defined subjects.

With the attention that we place on academic prog ress, it is easy for “Great job tying your shoes.” to become “How did you do on your spelling test?”. We often hear that “Children are growing up faster than ever”. Whilst we shouldn’t seek to accelerate this, and should encourage children to enjoy their childhood, we also have obligation to provide them with life skills such as resilience, compassion and independence.

This focus on skills is difficult to ‘teach’ in the traditional sense of the word, and instead these skills are learnt through experiences.

We can teach children their time tables, but it’s much harder to ‘teach’ them to be independent, and so a modern curriculum should reflect this. I have been very fortunate to see the benefits of this style of curriculum first hand at St Nicholas’ School, and here, these skills are developed in our pupils as soon as they join us in Reception. Giving children responsibility for their own learning is the key step in developing this sense of independence – providing lessons that allow children to explore concepts on their terms, to be free to ask questions that come to them, even if they are not on the lesson plan, and moving away from dull and rigid worksheets.

Developing this approach alongside the normal subjects inspires learning and facilitates progress both in and out of the classroom.

For me, it is incredibly rewarding to be preparing our pupils for a successful future. Watching a group of Year 5 & 6 pupils debate whether or not it is possible to be both collaborative and independent provides that validation that teachers enjoy so much; that we are equipping our pupils with independence in their thinking and a confidence in their convictions to help them

6 Families North West London

when faced with decisions in the future. At St Nicholas’, our whole community has embraced the importance of independent learning, where our unique CIPS (Creative, Independent, Problem Solving) curriculum is an explicit part of our timetable, giving these important skills the emphasis that they deserve in our children’s education. Helping children to be independent learners is an incredibly effective way to generate interest in their studying, teach responsibility and inspire them to want to succeed, and it is this, much more than any subject specific achievement, which helps children to develop and prepare for the future.

Mr Matt Donaldson joined St Nicholas’ School as Headteacher in September 2017. He has worked in a variety of Independent Schools throughout his career and has written for Galore Park Publishers creating curriculum content.

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

New book aims to improve children’s motivation and achievement

R

esearchers at the University of Portsmouth have produced a new children’s book that uses innovative research to raise pupils’ motivation and achievement. ‘My Hero’ is the seventh in a series of beautifully illustrated books, which help children to manage and change their emotions so they can learn from mistakes and not to fear them. They are designed for parents or teachers to read with younger children or for independent readers aged 4-11 years. The books are based on the concept of ‘Growth Mindset’, in which a person believes they can develop their ability and bounce back from failure by adopting coping strategies like trying again, trying harder or trying a different way in order to succeed. On the other hand, a Fixed Mindset is the belief that ability is something that you can’t change very much, you are born with it. With this belief, failure is harder to recover from. Those with a Fixed Mindset will adopt self-protection strategies including avoiding difficult tasks and misbehaving in order to avoid trying and failing.

familiesonline.co.uk

Professor Sherria Hoskins, Head of the Growing Learners research group at the University of Portsmouth, developed the Growth Mindset research programme. The programme has been testing an intervention to improve learning and attainment in school children, based on the Implicit Theory of Intelligence (Mindsets). This theory argues that intelligence is flexible and that teachers can help pupils develop a Growth Mindset by praising their effort, strategy and persistence, over their innate intelligence.

In ‘My Hero’ the hero in question is Albie, a young and dynamic Labrador puppy, who avoids water because he can’t swim. Using a story based on the Growth Mindset theory, the book can be used to help children overcome their fear of a particular subject at school.

Previous books have looked at a variety of issues. In ‘Joseph’s Play’ the hero overcomes the anxiety of appearing in school play, which explored the wider issue of anxiety

that could prevent a pupil from succeeding at school.

The books use creative writing students from the University and young illustrators (some from the University) to produce the books. The students are taught about the Growth Mindset theory to write the stories and they then work with researchers who check the underpinning theory. The eighth and last book in the series ‘The Mystery of Mr Cotter’ is out later this year. The book is inspired by a maths teacher who helped Professor Hoskins conquer her fear of maths and put her on her career path.

To buy ‘My Hero’ or any of the books in the series, please go to Amazon.co.uk and search for ‘Growing Learners Team’.

Families North West London 7

Education Independent School Open Days 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: Sat 16 Jun, 10am-12.30pm. 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

Buxlow Preparatory and Nursery School Wembley HA9 7QJ Boys and Girls 0 - 11yrs (Day) www.buxlowschool.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 89043615

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

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 2737.

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

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8266 1700

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

Open Day: Fri 22 Jun, 9.15am; Sat 6 Oct, 10am (Junior) 2pm (Senior) 020 8266 2302 email ldevine@habsgirls.org.uk

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

Open Day: Wed 2 May, 9.15am & 10.15am. 01923 681103

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

Open Day: Tue 15 May, 5-7pm. 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

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

Open Day: Prep: By appointment. Sen Sch: Sat 12 May, 10am12.30pm. 01923 825648 (Prep) 01923 845514 (Senior)

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

Open Day: Fri 2 Mar, Wed 7 Mar, both 1.15pm. 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 9 May, 9.30-11am (Early Yrs & Jun Sch); Thu 3 May, 9.30-11am (Sen Sch) 01923 825446.

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

Open Day: Sat 12 May, 10am. 020 8869 7634/7600

Call us to arrange an individual appointment

8 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

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

Open Day: Sat 22 Sep, 10am. 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 3-7yrs. 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 7 Oct, 2pm; Mon 8 & Tue 9 Oct (morning). 01923 725354

Stanborough School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 4-18yrs. Boarding/Day. www.spsch.org

Open Day: By appointment 01923 673268

St Christopher’s School, Wembley HA9 8HE Boys & Girls 4 – 11 years (day) admin@stchristophersschool.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 2 Mar; Fri 11 May, both 10am-12pm. 020 8902 5069

St John’s CofE Primary School Watford WD17 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www. stjohnswatford.co.uk

Open Day: Wed 3 Oct, 9am. 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 Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs. www.sthildasbushey.com

Open Day: Fri 25 May, 9.30am. 0208 950 1751

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

Open Day: Wed 23 May, 9.15am. 020 8866 0067

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

Open Day: Thu 3 May, 9.15-11.15am. 020 8901 0872

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

Open Day: Fri 2 Mar, 10am-12pm. 01923 825 740

St Nicholas Prep School and Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PN 3mths – 11 yrs. www.stnicholasschool.org.uk; www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8205 7153

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

Open Day: Sat 10 Mar, Sat 19 May, both 9.30am-12pm (Nursery-yr 8) 01923 772 395

familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 9

Children’s Parties

PART I E S We love this feature!

Neverland Events

Y 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 Captain Calamity - Dov Citron (a.k.a. Captain Calamity!) utilises marvellous magic, interactive storytelling, call-and-response games, crazy clowning, sensational science, incredible balloon twisting, hilarious puppetry, action-dances and jaw dropping bubble performances to enchant children of all ages in a world of interactive adventure. www.madhousekids.com/ Cheeky Chops Cookery Parties Themed parties from the comfort of your own kitchen: Italian, Mexican, Baking, Sushi, Tea Parties and more!

Birthday cakes and cookery-themed going home presents available on request for a small extra cost. Fully trained DBS cleared chefs with 15 years’ experience and collaboration with local schools. polly@cheekychopsparties.com 07968 960 551 www.cheekychopsparties.com Craft Tub – Book Your Party Today and let them come to you! They are open 7 days a week catering for small groups, individuals and large parties. With 6 Years High Street experience, their staff will entertain your children and teach them new skills in craft and creativity.www.crafttub. co.uk

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’…

Creative Fun Factory Toddler Parties (13 mths - 4 yrs) - These parties are run like their Toddler Fun & Music classes. They can entertain up to 30 children for one hour and supply two hosts.

Cheeky Monkey is included too! Harrow/Pinner 0208 427 9797 www.creativefunfactory.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 Froggle Parties are high energy and non-stop fun, providing children with exceptional party entertainment that they’ll be buzzing about for weeks to come. 0208 617 9070 www. froggleparties.co.uk KangaRooKids Drama, Music & Mini Disco Parties - Ruth & puppet Roo the kangaroo take your child on an adventure with music, engaging props, fun jumping & dancing! Farm Easter camp coming up in NW7. Ruth Silver 07801 748 699 ruth@kangarookidsgroup.co.uk Kiddikicks Birthday Parties - bounced on a castle, done clowns? Need a great active kids party? Then book a Kiddikicks football, sports day or multi-sport party that packs in the fun. High energy, high quality sports fun for 1 to 2 hours. 10 to 25 children per group. 020 7937 7965 www. kiddikicks.co.uk 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! Build self-confidence, resilience and creativity through play! www.young-engineers.co.uk Central and West London: 07522 602 1228 Info.westlondon@

youngengineers.co.uk Hertfordshire & Middlesex: 07454 363 766 Shelina@young-engineers.co.uk 07565 195 895 Smita@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 Luchi & Ota - Are a sewing and crafts boutique based in Edgware off the A41 on Mowbray Parade. They host a range of fun and exciting craft parties that are bursting with creativity. All the party attendees get to take home with them the beautiful items they have hand made at the shop. Their most popular creative party is Tie and Dye followed by the Sewing Party. Some of the other parties include, T-shirt Decorating, Mad Hatter Party, Masquerade Decorating, just to name a few more.

They have lots more to offer, please visit their website for more details: www.luchiandota.com Mini Maniacs are an Award Finalist Party Entertainment Business. Specialising in themed and non-themed children’s parties for 1-9year olds. From princesses to Discos, Bouncy Castles to Mascots, they have it all. Their reviews are outstanding and testimonials claim their entertainers are unbelievable. Book today to see the magic for yourself! 07711980132 rav@ mini-maniacs.com www.facebook.com/ theMiniManiacs www.twitter.com/theMiniManiacs www.mini-maniacs.com 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. Please email or call for more information uxbridge.harrow@monkeymusic.co.uk 020 8427 6595 Mother Nature Science - Exciting science-themed parties combining the ideas of “playing” and “learning”. Can be presented outdoors, indoor at home, or wherever you choose. Each Mother Nature Science party features an impressive array of spectacular topical demonstrations and interactive activities, and children leave the party with fun and educational take-home experiments.

020 8863 8832, www.mnature.co.uk

10 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

Children’s Parties We are 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! they are also on hand during the party if any assistance is needed. Not only do they provide entertainment they also have a full props package, not to mention face-painters and glitter stations that add sparkle to any special event.

Neverland Events also have holiday camps and after school clubs around London Website : www.neverlandevents.co.uk Email: info@neverlandevents.co.uk Instagram @NLeventsuk Facebook : Facebook.com/Neverlandeventsuk Contact number: 07526 954059

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! 0845 313 0399/07896 256099 charlie@rugbytots.co.uk www.rugbytots.co.uk Silly Millie the Clown - parties for 3 - 9 year olds.

Funny magic show, puppet’s, party games, silly songs & balloon animals. 020 7823 8329 or 07939 239 397 www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk 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. Call 07391 717267 or visit www. sparklepamperparty.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 years and above. Discover more at www.takayo.co.uk 07862 874583.

Y Party Venues/Parties onsite

Perform Parties - Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter to create fun-filled, action-packed parties. (Call 0207 255 9120 or 8visit performparties.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Abbots Parties @ Breakspeare - offering great inflatable and trampoline parties. The Sport Centre is set in the heart of Abbots Langley village, offers clean modern playrooms and facilities and is large enough to host over 30 children and their parents with ample parking. 07703 532 812 www. abbotsparties.co.uk 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 Rickmansworth - Over 11,000 children have already attended their baking parties and workshops, and they are a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable experience for all concerned. As a parent, this will be the most stress-free children’s party you will experience.

As you sip your cappuccino and indulge in treats from the bakery, your children will be experiencing the joys of baking. Parties and activities include Birthday Baking Parties, Cupcake Parties, Chocolate Parties and Workshops. 01923 778353 www. cinnamonsquare.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 Continued on page 12

Families North West London 11

Children’s Parties Continued from page 11

Go JumpIn

Hertsmere Leisure Centre Offering a wide range of affordable parties including – inflatable pool parties, bouncy castle and play, and football.

Invites included and catering options available. www.hertsmereleisure.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 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 from a go kart party to special toddler birthday parties, 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 Willows Farm Birthdays they provide all the fun and take away all the fuss in organising your child’s birthday party, with everything from party invites to party bags and balloons included in the price. Now also offering a Peter Rabbit Party Package. 01727 829535 www.willowsactivityfarm.com

MORE

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

12 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

Easter

Get Crafty this Easter MARBLED EASTER BUNTING This activity is a great intro to marbling, brilliant for learning about colour-mixing and for developing fine motor skills. Grab an apron, cover your work area, have a tray ready for your finished art and let your little ones get creative!

What you’ll need: Paper or card / Shaving foam / Poster paint (a few colours) / Tray or baking tin / Brush or clean stick What to do: • Spray foam onto the tray and then add the paint.

• Use a brush to make patterns in the foam before laying the paper carefully on top and pushing down gently.

• Lift off the paper and use an old piece of card to scrape off the excess foam.

• Leave to dry and then cut the paper into egg shapes.

• Thread with string and you’ve got some beautiful Easter bunting.

Idea provided by www.dinkydoodlers.co.uk

BOUNCY BUNNY Create this great Easter character and have fun decorating your home with lots of bunnies or putting on puppet shows!

What you’ll need: Craft foam / Googly eyes / Pompoms / PVA glue / Scissors / Felt tip pen/ Glitter / Card or paper / An adult to help you What to do: • Start by making your Bunny head – draw the shape outline including your ears and cut out your craft foam. Cut out two smaller ear shapes from different coloured paper to be the inside of Bunny’s ears. Add your googly eyes, two large pompoms for his cheeks and two small rectangles of paper for his teeth • Bunny body, arms and feet – cut out oval shapes of coloured paper for the belly and feet, and long shapes for arms. Cut two long strips of paper and fold into a concertina to create his long bouncy legs.

• Decorate his body as you like with pens, glitter, sparkles – whatever you fancy!

• Pop him on a piece of string or gift ribbon to make him hop about Idea provided by www.thecreationstation.co.uk

COCK-A-DOODLE-DOO EASTER BREKKIE (AGE 4+)

Make these special eggcups to decorate your festive breakfast table. Requires some cooking, so get an adult to help you.

What you’ll need: Empty eggbox / Scissors / Red & yellow card or felt / Glue / Googly eyes / Feathers / Eggs / Pan What to do: • Carefully cut out a cup from an egg box keeping the central egg divider.

• Using red card or felt cut out a mini cocks comb, and glue it onto the head.

• Using a little scrap of red paper cut out a mini heart shape to form the wattle.

• A mini folded over yellow triangle will make the beak.

• If you have googly eyes to hand use these otherwise draw on your eyes.

• Feathers added to the sides using tape give your cockerel the finishing touch.

• Boil your egg for 3.5 mins - 4 mins for soft boiled or between 7-10 for hard boiled Pop the toast in and start your Easter weekend with your very own handmade eggcups.

Squiggle, Dot & Squeeze create personalized craft boxes for kids, delivered direct to you door. Visit squiggledotandsqueeze.co.uk to find out more.

Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford

call: 0208 123 9346 email: jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk

Harrow (HA3), North Wembley and Bushey call: 0208 422 0676 email: niro@littlekickers.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 13

Parenting

Finding the Space for ME F

rom the minute a new baby arrives, we willingly surrender our own needs.

Our focus goes into survival –food and sleep – for them and us. Drinking a cup of tea while it is still hot feels like an achievement!

We navigate weaning, walking, talking, and by the time school comes we have forgotten about who we are and what we love to do, because we’re not used to having ‘me time’.

Here’s how to get back on track:

• Clear space When you feel you have no time, you often have no space either. Create a space where you have room to relax – a toy-free sofa, a clear dining table, or a room with a ‘no kids’ rule. Clear physical space helps generate clear mental space.

• Please yourself first If we are honest, it’s easy to become resentful about some of the time with our children when we don’t have enough for ourselves. Having more fun together would drastically increase your own levels of joy, and be a step closer to having time for you.

So create a list of the things you can do with your child that you like too. A walk in the woods (throw in a Gruffalo or treasure trail), playing games that YOU like… a great way to connect with the child in you as well as the one(s) in front of you.

• Let go If we don’t design how to spend our time we end up full but not fulfilled. We do monotonous chores that someone else could do like tidying, dishwasher emptying etc. Yes these things have to be done, but there’s room to do them less, and there

is definitely room to delegate…..IF you are willing to let go.

List the top 10 things on your plate, pick three that you don’t like, and delegate them; that might mean hiring a cleaner, or finding another owner at home. Perhaps you think they all fall to you, but that could be the perfectionist in you trying to control things. Are you willing to let go in favour of joy?

• Accept help I often observe this polite space where parents won’t ask for help for fear of parental criticism, and others won’t offer for fear of interfering. The truth is we all have family and friends who want to support us if we allow them to… So find a person whose kids you could bear to look after and agree a swap; you look after their kids one month; they do it for you the next month. Quid pro quo is a great way to overcome guilt, and start feeling supported.

• 15 minute habit When we are overwhelmed with what’s on our plate we desperately crave ‘me time’, but it seems like an insurmountable problem. Don’t target nirvana - 15 minutes a day can make a massive difference to how you feel. Start small and build it into your schedule.

Rather than focusing on the hour or two you are never likely to get, focus on what joy you can extract from 15 minutes. Are 3 high vibe songs enough to bring you joy?

Or a single chapter of a book? Both of these things are better than no time for you.

Once you see the joy you can get from 15 minutes, you will be motivated to spend longer.

Here’s the health warning: it is natural to feel bad at first about taking time away from your little humans BUT, when you are happy, your children will be happy.

When you take time for you, you will be re-energised for your family. So in the interests of them, take care of you. And find that space today using the steps above, no matter where your starting point is.

Susie Ramroop is a Mum to 6 year old Elise, and a Transformational Coach who helps busy Mums do less and have more impact. www.susieramroop.com

MORE

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

14 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

Mummy on the Edge How Angelina won birthdays!

M

idi-Me hardly ever asks for anything specific, which makes it very difficult to get her things when called for by a celebration. This may or may not be some deepseated issue to do with the time when she was about 6 and wrote a letter to Father Christmas at school asking for 2 things: 1) a hammer and 2) peace and quiet. He didn’t bring her a hammer and, Nightmare-Next-Door-Lady did not lose her voice or stop burning things-which-should-not-be-burned in her garden.

Fast forward to this special 16th birthday. I had been saving some earrings that were mine when I was little to give to Midi-Me. She doesn’t like earrings but she is quite sentimental and I am quite lazy so I thought she could look at them from time to time and it meant I wouldn’t have to go shopping. This time, however, a couple of weeks before the day, she asked in a cheeky, only half-serious tone, “Mum, can I have flying lessons for my birthday?”

“Huh?? No!” I immediately replied.

You know when you go on Groupon and Travelzoo and Living Social to look for spa and afternoon-tea deals and then flying lessons pop up and you think that’s cool but who would book a flying lesson on Groupon or Travelzoo or Living Social? Well, I did. There were quite a few available so I asked the google about each flying school and which had the best reviews and then I crossed my fingers, hoped for the best and booked it.

The morning of her birthday I revealed to her a helium balloon (don’t judge me, I know helium is running out but it’s her SIXTEENTH birthday and it was only a small balloon!) And a wrapped-up box of my earrings.

And a wrapped-up tomato Cuppa Soup. “Ah thank you mummy. Lovely earrings. And I did ask you to buy tomato Cuppa Soup,” she laughed.

She ate her special pizza breakfast – yes, at 7.30 in the morning (don’t

familiesonline.co.uk

knock it till you’ve tried it) and then I said, “Hmm this packet of soup feels a bit heavier than usual. Open it and see how many sachets they’ve included. Maybe they’ve given us one extra or something.” She opened it and inside she found a piece of paper folded up into a paper aeroplane revealing my awesome gift of a single flying lesson consisting of a half-hour safety briefing, half-hour of flying and a certificate!

A few days later, and there we were, three of us, on an absolutely freezing and windy field in St Albans. The half hour lesson before the flight turned out to be about ten minutes. I told myself that it was because she must be gifted. I stood and watched as the tiny bi-plane juddered away on the field between two bushes in the distance and then returned, picking up speed before tilting upwards and rising over our heads into the sky.

At lunch afterwards we ate and chatted. She was elated, I was freakedout and he was mildly amused. All perfectly normal for us.

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

Families North West London 15

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 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 for Stress Relief and Wellbeing Feel energised, improve mental clarity, better memory recall, increase happiness, flush out negative thoughts, improve physical and mental health. Plus FREE 10 min stress relief treatment for newcomers. Every 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month at: The Stables, Eastcote House Gardens, Pinner, HA5 2QS. No booking required. All welcome.

Donation to charity. For more information contact: Alexandra Barrett:  alexandrabarrett@me.com,  0775 334 90 24 The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) Pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore.

Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.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 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 Club Petit Pierrot (NW3/8/11) French Parent & Toddler group for 2-4 year olds in Hampstead at the JW3 Centre (NW3). Mon from 10.30am-11.15am and will be a multi-sensory session, totally in French, with many fun and varied activities including songs, rhymes, music, arts & crafts, dances and movement, language games, and puppets…all great fun! There will also be new fun French after-school classes on Weds for 4 to 6 yr olds and 6 to 8 yr olds in St Anthony’s School for Girls, Hampstead (NW11). Multi-sensory sessions with arts & crafts and music & movement also take place in St Mark’s Church Hall, St John’s Wood/Maida Vale (NW8) on Thurs, Fri and Sat.  020 7385 5565  admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk www.clubpetitpierrot.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

Guju Tots Swagatham! Kem Chho? Come along to a FREE taster of these funfilled 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 Sessions for Parent and Toddlers and Home Educators starting in Oxhey Woods in January every Monday. Children are introduced to the wonders of the woodland through play, song, story telling, craft and practical skills. For more information  Emma on 07900 215512 or  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

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 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. 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 Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are filled with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement.Focusing on a range of engaging activities, the classes take you up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster!  hilda@mini-maniacs.com www.mini-maniacs.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

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 Better leisure centres (various) We exist to make community services and spaces better for everyone. That means providing access to quality community leisure and fitness facilities - and more - at a price everyone can afford.  www.better.org. uk/families 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 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. Call 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886 to book a trial session. 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 Everyone Active (various) Why should your child learn to swim? Swimming is lots of fun for people of all ages and also provides loads of health benefits which can help to keep you and your children healthy and happy at the same time. What’s more, swimming is the only sport which can save your child’s life. Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental death in children, so being able to swim is an essential life-saving skill.  To find out more about learning to swim at your local leisure centre visit www. everyoneactive.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 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 Rugbytots - the UK’s first rugby based play programme for 2-7 year olds.

Focusing on developing your child’s motor skills and confidence with fun-filled programmes aimed at improving general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination. Currently classes in Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore.  For more information contact charlie@rugbytots.co.uk SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children.

All students are taught in small groups of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years (an hour and a half) Main Academy 6-16 years (3 hours). (Previously known as SportsCoach.) Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth 01923255099  sportskids@outlook.com www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk 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 White Crane Karate School (HA8) Karate classes for ages 4 years and above held in Edgware, East Finchley, Finchley Central , Stanmore and Harrow Weald. Adult classes in Barnet. Sheena 0787 550 1674  whitecraneedgware34@hotmail. co.uk www.karatewhitecrane.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

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 years 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 (children 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

Swimmimg

Aqua Vie Swimming based on effortless swimming and true water confidence.

Fun classes for babies & Children from 6wks+ to all ages including Adults. New Tues, Wed & Sunday morning classes in Bushey WD23.  01923 245 772  www.aqua-vie.com or email office@aqua-vie.com Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday clubs and After school club held at Quainton Hall School. Swimming lessons also held at Merchant Taylors School and Uxendon Manor Primary School.  Splashtime Swim School 07903126486 Children’s Activities 07794078452

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.

JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Truly like no other, with classes available from 2.5 years – adults, male and female plus an incredibly busy agency that is always looking for new recruits! 01895 624755  www.jam2000.co.uk

Paediatric First Aid Courses Sat 24 Feb, Wed 21 March, Sun 25 March - 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

Local Clubs and Classes Directory 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.

Performing arts classes are an excellent way to build confidence and social skills and are lots of fun. For more information or to book a two-week trial,  www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.

Italia Conti Ruislip (HA5) Performing Arts School for 2yrs to adult, Haydon School Eastcote. ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern, Street dance, Break Dance, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Singing, LAMDA, acting, Gymnastics, Lyrical. Call or email for a Free Trial 20 8838 8747  info@italiacontiruislip.co.uk www. italiacontiruislip.co.uk Perform (various) 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.  020 7255 9120  enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk 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 Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, Drama and Communication Skills for children 3-18yrs.  wordworksstudio@ymail.com

Dance Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge City Centre. Classes for children ages 2 all the way through to adults.

Hip Hop, Street Dance, Gymnastics, Free Running, Breakdancing, Ballet (RAD), Tap (ISTD), Contemporary, Cheerleading, Pole Fitness, and Children’s Parties.

Classes range from beginners to advanced/competitive levels. Three fully equipped studios available for hire, at very competitive rates. Futunity UK also supply dance (all genres) and gymnastics teachers into schools to run after/ before school extra curricular sessions, and PE and PPA cover lessons. 01895 251224  admin@futunityuk.com www.futunityuk.com Harrow Theatre Dance & Pinner Theatre Dance (HA) Ballet, Modern, Tap and Street Dance. In Harrow, Pinner and Ruislip. ISTD qualified teachers and exams.

Classes for children aged 3+. Adult tap and ballet also available. Text: 07804 910 551  Info@HarrowTheatreDance.co.uk Info@PinnerTheatreDance.co.uk 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 Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) Learn a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip-Hop and Salsa at our weekly classes. Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults the courses are Fun, Motivating and KBM offers many performance opportunities.

All dance levels welcome. Contact our friendly team for your class registration.  0208 423 9543/07944 457 984  www.kspark.co.uk Lorna Clark School of Dance (Various) Established for over 40 years, training students from 3-18 yrs - Ballet, Tap, Modern, Classical Greek and National. Royal Academy of Dance Examinations are taken in Ballet from Primary to Advanced Level and ISTD exams in all other Genre to the same standard. All classes held in South Harrow/Eastcote. Book a free No Obligation Lesson with this advert.  0208 8662105 or 01923 285380.  www.lornaclarkschoolofdance.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

familiesonline.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 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  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

1Point4Teacher (HA) Do you have a child in KS1 and KS2? Does your child need more of a challenge? Then give 1Point4Teacher a try today. Lessons from a qualified primary school teacher, with a class ratio of 1 adult to 4 children.

English tuition on Mondays and Tuesdays, covering reading comprehension and SPAG (spellings, punctuation and grammar) with math lessons on a Wednesday.

Harrow, 5 minutes from Kenton Library.  www.1Point4Teacher.co.uk or email the Head Tutor Mrs Edwin on info@1point4teacher.co.uk 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 Champs Learning (HA1) A very structured tuition course for English, Maths, Science and 11+ exams. Courses run at Harrow College. 020 3004 9007  www.champslearning.co.uk 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 Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware. Programmes for children from 2.5-16 yrs. If your child needs a little extra help, in English maths verbal and non-verbal 4+ 7+ and 11+ preparing for entrance exams or you just want to give them every advantage, Elisa can help. 99% success rate. 020 8958 1192 07956868119  www.childrensstories.net www. kidslearnfast.co.uk 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 9 year olds are reopening their group after the Summer holidays on Tuesday 6th September in Central Harrow. Parents wishing to join their children should contact the District Secretary; John Woolf: 020 8428 2409 or  e-mail: harrow@woodcraft. org.uk For more information regarding Harrow Woodcraft Folk visit their web site: www. harrowwoodcraftfolk.btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime Children’s Activities limited (HA1) Pick’s up from four local school’s at the end of the school day, then take the children back to the club for a snack and the daily activity. They are open Monday- Friday 3pm-6pm Nicole 07794078452  holidays@activetime.co.uk www. activetime.co.uk 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 all-round 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, hands-on, 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 Leaders are Readers (HA5 & N21) Offer specialist experience and accelerated learning in their award winning Saturday School, and also run popular Summer and Winter Schools during holidays. 2 hours spent per subject, including English, Maths, Learning to Read and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. All programmes are for ages 3.5 to 11 and the success rate is 90% for helping pupils prepare to sit entrance exams, including 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+. Childcare vouchers accepted. 01992 651 300  www.leadersarereaders.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 Love 2 Learn (HA) Experienced Primary School teacher and tutor for year 1 to year 6 in Pinner. 11-12 week session taught in small groups. Topics include Creative Writing, Mental Maths, Persuasive Writing, Public Speaking and Cross Curriculum Education. Mrs S Mukhtar. 07958 728184  lovetolearncreatively@gmail.com Lumilie’s Learning World (HA) New Children’s Educational/Developmental Classes for 2yrs-5yrs. Dynamic approach of interactive Musical Activities, igniting children’s senses to a world of multiple learning opportunities. Expanding curious minds through language, communication, education and creative experiences for holistic growth. Classes at Harrow Arts Centre - Call Andrea 07914 953123 to book your FREE TRIAL.  www.lumilieslearningworld.com Mastermind Tuition (HA) Specialists in 11+. Maths, English, Verbal and NonVerbal, Grammar & independent School Preparation. £15 per session. Classes in Harrow and Northwood. 075 10 10 50 50. www.mastermindtuition.com 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 The Rainbow Club (various) Specialise in preparing for 3+, 4+ and 5+ entrance exams. 07850 045 471  Sonya.Thiru@gmail.com Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children on the SEN register. Reading courses are flexible with home based learning (via computer) monitored daily. Usha Patel on 07766 837 616  info@ravivpracticelondon. co.uk (registered therapist) 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 17

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 Mon 9 – Tue 10 Apr - Dinosaur World Live Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World in this interactive new show for all the family. Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across unchartered territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs.

A special meet and greet after the show offers all our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Ages 3+ Sat 21 Apr - Sleeping Beauty A classic fairytale set to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, stunning choreography, beautiful costumes all combine to portray the struggle between good and evil. Following the traditional tale of Sleeping Beauty, this ballet is sure to enchant audiences of all ages.

The Apollo Victoria 17 Wilton Rd, Pimlico, SW1V 0844 871 3001 www.theapollovictoria.com Extended Run to May 2019 Wicked Wicked tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two young women who first meet as sorcery students at Shiz University; the blonde and very popular Glinda and a misunderstood green girl named Elphaba. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destines as Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. With show-stopping songs

by Stephen Schwartz and adapted for the stage

by Winnie Holzman from the acclaimed novel

by Gregory Maguire, Wicked is an unforgettable musical that transports audiences to a stunningly re-imagined world of Oz, providing marvels beyond your imagination.

Artsdepot 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk Wed 4 - Sun 8 Apr - Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday The enchanting world of Sarah and Duck is brought to life in a brand-new stage show, featuring the wonderful characters from the BAFTA awardwinning CBeebies show. Join Sarah and Duck and

a host of your favourite friends including The Ribbon Sisters, The Shallots, Flamingo & John and Umbrella, as they plan a birthday party for Scarf Lady in their garden. Told through a fantastic blend of puppetry, storytelling and music, Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday will take you and your children on a magical adventure. Ages 3+ Sun 15 Apr - Monstersaurus!

Follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a whole world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters, but he has a problem - now he has made them all, what is he going to do with them?! Thrills, spills, magic and mayhem will delight the whole family – with original music and plenty of audience participation. Based on the book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort, this show is monster-ously good! Ages 3-7 yrs

The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes. 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Thu 12 Apr - Swan Lake One of the best known love stories, performed by the ever popular Vienna Festival Ballet. Lavish costumes, stunning scenery, international stars, and the glorious music from Tchaikovsky make this a night not to be missed. Swan Lake is the most popular ballet in the world. It’s the ballet that captures like no other the full range of human emotions from hope to despair, from terror to tenderness, from melancholy to ecstasy. Don’t miss this magical evening.

Fri 13 Apr - Alice In Wonderland: An Easter Pantomime Starring Britain’s Got Talent winner Ashleigh Butler and her dog Sully alongside Children’s TV legend Dave Benson Phillips and further casting still to be announced, come and join us on this laugh a minute all-singing, all-dancing panto ride through Wonderland. Will Alice find her way back? Or will she find true love in Wonderland?

Compass Theatre Glebe Avenue, Ickenham UB10 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Wed 11 – Sun 15 Apr - Beauty and the Beast: Easter Panto Join Beauty and Dame Nellie as they attempt to reverse the Bad Fairy’s spell on the Beast – in another fun-filled Easter holiday pantomime, packed with singing, dancing, jokes and cheer.

Harrow Arts Centre Hatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com Thu 5 Apr - The Captain Calamity Easter Sp-EGG-tacular Captain Calamity’s Easter SpEGGtacular is bouncing to Harrow Arts Centre like a chocolate bunny on a pogo stick. This crazy mix of magic, science and interactive fun is set to be the perfect Easter delight for kids aged 3 to 8 yrs old. Guinness World Record Breaking Entertainer Captain Calamity brings his famous brand of silliness to HAC with just a spoon full of Easter fun to add to the spEGGtacle.

Tue 10 Apr - There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly The People’s Theatre Company bring one of the world’s best loved nursery rhymes to life just in time to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Pam Adams’ best selling book! This magical show has been written especially for grown ups to enjoy with their children, so come and relive the delights of this most charming of tales complete with a feast of sing along songs, colourful animal characters and heart warming family fun. It’s the perfect treat for anyone aged 2 to 102!

Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com Until Sun 22 Apr – The Singing Mermaid One day, the singing mermaid is tempted away from all of her sea creature friends and her peaceful home at Silversands to join a travelling circus. Through beautiful puppetry and performance, Little Angel Theatre collaborate once again with Royal & Derngate to bring Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’s enormously popular story to life. Ages 3-8 yrs Fri 16 Mar – Sat 29 Apr - Junk Discover a story about the things we throw away.

Every day, under our very eyes, in rubbish bins and recycling boxes across the country, something strange and exciting is happening. Little Angel Theatre presents ‘Junk’, a puppetry production that brings your milk bottles, newspapers and egg boxes to life, sharing stories through the hidden everyday magic we can easily overlook.

An immersive puppetry experience, where the audience embark on a unique, interactive adventure. Ages 7 – 12 yrs

Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES 0844 482 9674 www.nimaxtheatres.com Wed 4 July – Sun 2 Sept - We’re Going On A Bear Hunt Direct from a smash-hit international tour, Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join the intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure! Ages 3+

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 (During the summer the Barge is at Richmond, TW10) 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Sat 24 Mar – Sun 13 May - The Birdman plus Monkey Business The Birdman - A play without words, Birdman tells the story of a small bird rejected from the nest, using specially composed music and expertly carved marionettes. Enchantingly

18 Families North West London

tranquil and moving – the antithesis of television.

Monkey Business - Imagine if the monkeys took over the circus! A programme of light-hearted fun for all the family, with monkey marionettes performing hilarious tricks – stilt-walking, juggling, trapeze and much more besides!”

The Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Wed 4 Apr - The Jungle Book Immersion Theatre are thrilled to bring their trademark energy to their wildest show yet, a brand new musical adaptation of family favourite, The Jungle Book! Funny, exciting and wildly entertaining, this larger-than-life musical will have you howling with laughter. The perfect treat for the whole family! Ages 4+ Fri 6 Apr - Teddy Bear’s Picnic Hosted by ex-Crackerjack presenter, Jan Hunt, this show is full of new songs, games, stories, fun and laughter and is suitable for under-5s, mums and dads and teddy bears! Children (and mums and dads) are encouraged to bring their teddy bears along with them and there will be prizes given out! So, if you go down to the woods today, especially if it’s your birthday, you’ll be sure of a big surprise… Ages 5 and under

Watersmeet High St, Rickmansworth WD3 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk Thu 12 – Sun 15 Apr – Sharpe Academy Presents: Fame JR FAME the Musical follows a group of students as they attend a four-year training programme at the New York School of Performing Arts. The students, who are expert Musicians, Actors and Dancers, experience the highs and lows leading to their final graduation. Famous songs include the title song Fame, Bring on Tomorrow and Hard Work. This is the JUNIOR version of Fame and is appropriate for children aged 6+ to watch.

Watford Palace Theatre Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Sun 8 – Mon 9 Apr - Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales Under the sea, out on the farm and into the jungle, these terrific tales are woven together with live music, puppetry and a whole host of colourful characters from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestloved titles: Tiddler, Monkey Puzzle, The Smartest Giant in Town and A Squash and a Squeeze.

Funky moves, toe tapping tunes and giggles are guaranteed! This delightful production is brought to you by the team behind Stick Man Live, adapted from the bestselling books by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo. Ages 3+ Wed 11 Apr - Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday The enchanting world of Sarah and Duck is brought to life in a brand-new stage show, featuring the wonderful characters from the BAFTA award-winning CBeebies show.

Told through a fantastic blend of puppetry, storytelling and music, Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday will take you and your children on a magical adventure. Ages 3+

MORE

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

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 2018) send your entry by 29 March 2018 Email Editor@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 for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

March Ongoing – Little Africa at Paultons Park (SO51) The UK’s leading theme park has revealed plans for the opening of a new African-themed animal attraction. Little Africa will house a number of animals native to the continent and will be an educational, interactive and exciting attraction, with a number of animals that children, and even parents, will have not seen before. www.paultonspark.co.uk Until Sun 8 Apr - Winnie-the-Pooh: Exploring a Classic (SW7) This multi-sensory and playful exhibition at the V&A Museum explores the magical world of Winnie-the-Pooh – one of the most adored fictional characters of all time. Experience the timeless and universal appeal of this muchloved bear and discover the story behind the creative partnership of A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepard, brought to life through sketches, letters, photographs, cartoons, ceramics and fashion. www.vam.ac.uk Sat 3 Mar - Holi War 2018 (HA4) Celebrate the festival of colours at The Great Barn on Manor Farm Site in Ruislip.

Experience Holi in its true spirit with Colour play, Indian street food market, Photoshoot, Dhol, lots of Holi related carefully planned activities for kids, fun games, competitions and prizes along with singing and dancing, all in a safe and controlled setting so its not overwhelming for the little ones! 12-3pm. info@cheerkraft.com Sat 3 Mar - Northwood Craft Market (HA6) At the Methodist Church Hall in Northwood from 10am-2pm. There will be a variety of beautiful handmade crafts to browse and buy, a Plant Stall, hands on crafts for children and homemade cakes, teas & coffees. www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk Sat 3 Mar – Sat 28 Apr - Big Wordfest (Various) Big Wordfest returns to Watford this Spring and will be a celebration of all things word-related. The fun kicks off on Saturday 3 March, starting at Watford Museum running from 12 noon to 3pm. Go along throughout the day to meet Alice and her fictitious chums in the town centre. The characters will be paying a visit to some of the many literary and cultural landmarks, including Watford Museum, Watford Central Library and Waterstones bookshop. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sun 4,11,18 & 25 Mar & Sun 8 Apr - Family Takeover at Camden Arts Centre (NW3) Join Family Artist-in-Residence Judith Brocklehurst for weekly sessions where participants will make and break rules, produce

new possibilities, enact the Golden Ratio and create Giorgio Griffa inspired records. Family Takeover is suitable for children of all ages and materials are provided free of charge, but donations are invited.

Every Sunday from 2-4.30pm www.camdenartscentre.org Mon 5 – Mon 19 Mar - Peace of Cake (WD17) Love getting together with friends for a cuppa and a slice of cake (or two)? Why not host a Coffee Morning or Cake Sale during Peace of Cake Fortnight to support Peace Hospice? They can provide you with collection tins, balloons and the Peace of Cake fundraising pack which includes invitations and posters which you can personalise as well as bunting and thank you cards for after the event. You will then receive your own Peace of cake certificate to thank you for the dough you’ve raised!

01923 335 371 fundraising@peacehospicecare.org.uk.

Tue 6 Mar – Tue 3 Apr - Money Matters (HA1) This 5 week programme at Hope Harrow aims to make the issue around money, engaging and fun. Parents have constant pressure on their finances, having to meet expectations and demands from their children and it’s not always easy to find the time to make the subject of money part of family life and the children’s understanding. Topics include: Spending habits and household finances: Ways to start and maintain accurate paperwork: Budget planning and using a spending diary: Understanding need versus want: Savings: Effectively communicating with children and the confidence to say ‘No’ without feeling guilty.

020 8863 7319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk Sun 11 Mar - Families Find Out @ Museum of London Archaeological Archive (EC2Y) This British Science week, the Museum of London are opening their Archaeological Archive so you can go and discover the science behind the collection. Use biology, chemistry, physics and maths to reveal hidden stories from the past and learn how to preserve artefacts for the future. Free advance tickets will be available, and limited tickets will be available on the day. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Mon 12 – Sat 17 Mar - British Science Week at the RAF Museum (NW9) This year’s British Science Week is dedicated to the physics of flight. Why not go along and check out one of the free workshops. Find out what makes aircraft fly and make your own quick experiment to take home. This will be a free drop in session suitable for children aged 6-12 and their families. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Thu 15 Mar & Thu 19 Apr - Bach to Baby (WC1N) Discover the award-winning classical concert series for babies, toddlers and parents at the Foundling Museum. Themed

Power UP @ the Science Museum concerts are performed by pianist Miaomiao Yu along with other internationally renowned musicians. Book tickets online at bachtobaby.com. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Fri 16 Mar - Race Night in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice (HA6) If you fancy a flutter on the horses or a Friday night out with a difference, then Michael Sobell Hospice Charity (MSHC) has the perfect event for you, taking place at the Michael Sobell Centre Lecture Hall at 7pm. Go as an individual or with a group of family and friends - entry is £10pp with prizes on the night awarded for best fancy dress and best dressed. A licensed bar will be provided along with a selection of nibbles or you can take your own food. www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk Sat 17th Mar – Lots for Tots Sale Watford (WD25) The Watford sales take place at Francis Combe Academy, with at least 35 tables selling great quality items. The sale has been successfully running in Watford for 16 years and is popular throughout the surrounding areas. There is parking onsite making it very easy for sellers to unload. The sale opens to the public at 10.00am and finishes at 11.45. info@lotsfortotssale.co.uk www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk Continued on page 20

The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance

SportsKids - Multi-Sports Academy

• Ballet classes for boys & girls aged 3-18 • Outstanding Royal Academy of Dance examinations results • Established 14 years in Stanmore

Tel: 01923 255099 E: SportsKids@outlook.com

•

• •

Successful places at Royal Ballet School, Tring Park, Central School of Ballet, London Senior/Junior Ballet, London Studio Centre, Ballet West Numerous cups/medallists – British Federation of Festivals Contemporary/Jazz classes

Classes are held in the Stanmore and and Bushey Area Suzanne Van Niekerk (RAD Qualified Teacher) T: 020 8950 2457 www.vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk “Develop poise, technique and expression through dance”

familiesonline.co.uk

Sports Activities for 4 to 16 year olds

Sportscoach are celebrating 10 years by expanding and rebranding to

SportsKids Academy

American Football - Dodgeball - Handball - Basketball Tag Rugby - Softball - Gaelic Football - Rounders - Athletics Kwik Cricket - Gymnastics - Tennis - Climbing Wall - Fencing Lacrosse - Netball - Volleyball - Archery - Martial Arts - Kin Ball Football - Badminton - Tri Golf - Uni-Hoc We are located in Harrow and Rickmansworth

www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk Families North West London 19

What’s On Continued from page 19

Sat 17 – Sun 18 Mar - Learn to Play Day 2018 (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

Sat 24 Mar - Wondrous Libraries! (NW1) Join in this creative workshop and explore different materials to design your own extraordinary library map. Be inspired by the architecture of the British Library, their wonderful collection of maps and tales of unusual libraries. Workshops are free , places are limited to 40 people per workshop and allocated on a first come, first served basis. For ages 5 – 11. 10:30am-12pm and repeated at 1-2.30pm. www.bl.uk

Sat 17, Sun 18 & Sat 24 Mar - South West Herts Astronomical Society: Stargazing in the Park (WD18) South West Herts Astronomical Society (SWHAS) is celebrating its 50th year with a number of free, public Stargazing events at Cassiobury Park. There will be astronomical experts and equipment, an astro exhibition, and attendees can have their photo taken with the U.K. Space Agency Space Suit, as well as view lunar rock samples. Free children’s activity packs from the U.K. Space Agency and Science and Technology Facilities Council, in addition to other activities on the night. Fun, free, family event open to all, taking place at the Cassiobury Park Hub from 7.309.30pm. Children will require supervision at all times. www.swhas.org Sun 18 Mar - Stylish Shadows (HA2) Silhouette portraits were a big hit in Georgian England. Find out how artists made these portraits, and have your own silhouette taken by lamplight at Headstone Museum from 11am-3pm. www.headstonemanor.org

Sat 24 Mar – Sun 15 Apr - Easter Eggstravaganza (AL4) Choc-o-bloc family fun with the Easter Bunny, Easter Egg and Bunny Hunts with chocolate prizes at Willows Activity Farm. In addition there will be adventure play and farmyard fun with lots of animals including chicks and bunnies. www.willowsactivityfarm.com Thurs 29 Mar – Wear a Hat Day! – The UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event! In 2017, families and schools came together along -ide other organisation and communities across the UK and helped raise offer £300,000 to fund vital research. With your help they can double this in 2018 – aiming for £600,000 which is enough to keep a group of researchers funded for a year. www.wearahatday.org Thu 29 Mar - Air Hockey Challenge (WD17) Games and good times for 12-17 year olds at intu Watford. Go along to chill out, challenge your mates and take-home top prizes on the first day of every school holiday. Today’s challenge is Air hockey from 12 to 5pm. Challenge your mates and win a £25 intu Gift Card!

Plus, make your own amazing lip balm and personalise with colours and glitter. www.intu.co.uk/watford Fri 30 – Sat 31 Mar – Easter Trail (SG3) Follow the trail symbols around the Gardens and Dinosaur Trail at Knebworth House and complete the quiz sheet to claim an exciting reward! There is plenty to do in the Gardens this Easter – explore the Maze and the Dinosaur Trail. Enjoy the spring flowers and listen to the birdsong. Visit the Gift shop and Tea Room for Easter treats. The huge Adventure Playground is great fun – make sure you try the astro slide, drop slide, zip wire and the splash water play features. www.knebworthhouse.com Fri 30 Mar – Mon 2 Apr – Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt (HP4) Hop like a bunny along the Easter trail at the Ashridge Estate and receive a chocolate egg as a prize. No booking required. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Fri 30 Mar – Tue 3 Apr - Pop-up Performance: Easter Holidays (SW7) Take part in free activities during the Easter holidays and go on a sea-faring adventure. Go along to the V&A Museum during the Easter holidays for adventures at sea around the world in an interactive and playful performance, with original music and songs

by Jo Girdlestone. Performance duration approximately 30 minutes starting at 11.00, 13.00 & 15.00. www.vam.ac.uk Fri 30 Mar – Sun 15 Apr - Power UP @ the Science Museum (SW7) This Easter the Science Museum welcomes back its phenomenally popular interactive gaming event.

Held in partnership with leading gaming specialists European Gaming League (EGL), Power UP takes you on an interactive journey

Sun 18 Mar - Big Fish Little Fish (WD18) Award winning, bonkers family fun with Big Fish Little Fish family rave at Watford Colosseum from 2-4pm! World class DJs on the decks playing classic club tracks with bubbles, glowsticks, glitter, crafts, play, club visuals, giant balloons, legendary parachute dance, licensed bar and so much more! All ages welcome but aimed at families with 0-8 year olds. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Thu 22 Mar - Baby Box Office: Wonder Woman (HA5) A special screening at Harrow Arts Centre exclusively designed for parents/guardians and their babies. With a lowered film volume, soft lighting and free movement during the screening, you can enjoy a film in comfort without worrying about disturbing other guests. 11am to 1:15pm. www.harrowarts.com Sat 24 Mar – Easter Bazaar and Egg Hunt (HA0) Easter fun for all the family at Sudbury Neighbourhood Centre! Meet Mr Bunny, find the lost eggs and win a prize. There will also be face painting, games and music.

The event takes place from 11am-3pm at Sudbury Neighbourhood Centre, 809 Harrow Rd in Wembley, with the Easter Egg Hunt starting at 12.30pm prompt!

0208 908 1220 www.sudburyneighbourhoodcentre.co.uk Sat 24 Mar – Movie Music: Trinity Orchestra Family Concert (HA1) Trinity Orchestra is very excited to announce the return of its popular family concert, offering the chance to enjoy music from film favourites such as Disney’s Frozen and Up, Harry Potter, Pirates of the Caribbean and lots more! The concerts starts at 4pm and takes place at Trinity Church in Harrow.

020 8428 5924 www.trinityorchestra.org.uk

through the history of gaming with 180 systems and hundreds of games for enthusiasts and novices to get their gaming fix, whether playing classic arcade games or trying out the latest VR. From Pong and Pacman to Minecraft and Mario. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/power-up Fri 30 Mar – Sun 15 Apr - Jungle Survival Skills: Workshop (SW3) Learn how to survive in the jungle at this free family friendly workshop at the National Army Museum from 10.30am-12.30pm & 1.30-4.30pm. Imagine you’re in the jungle, surrounded by tall trees, critters scuttling over the floor, and rain falling. How do you survive? Find out at this Easter holiday family activity. www.nam.ac.uk Fri 30 Mar – Sun 15 Apr - A big day out with Peter Rabbit™ at Kew Gardens (TW9) Join Peter Rabbit and all his furry friends on a botanical bunny adventure this Easter at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Visitors can expect an exciting activity-packed day out with games, crafts and storytelling inspired by Beatrix Potter’s iconic tales. The Easter extravaganza will celebrate the beauty of nature at Kew and encourage visitors of all ages to explore the wonderful world of fruit, vegetables and other edible plants, whilst learning about how they are grown. www.kew.org Fri 30 Mar – Sun 15 Apr - Dusty’s Giant Duck Hunt (SW13) Spring is a wonderful time to visit WWT London Wetland Centre as new life is bursting out all around with babies, bugs and buds in abundance. But some of the ducklings have gone missing - can you help find them? Follow the Easter GIANT duck trail around the nature reserve to discover where they are hiding. You’ll need all your special detective skills to track them. If you find them all you’ll win a prize! £1 per trail including a prize. www.wwt.org.uk Sat 31 Mar – Sun 1 Apr - Bengali Spring Festival (E14) Go along to the Museum of London Docklands for a vibrant celebration of spring at this community festival of Bengali arts and culture. Explore the blossoms of the season with hands-on crafts and workshops for the whole family to enjoy, or sit back, relax and enjoy a range of performances from local talents. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands Sat 31 Mar – Sun 15 Apr - Eggtastic Gnome Hunt (HA2) Those crazy little gnomes are at it AGAIN at Headstone Manor. Running off with all of the eggs! Pick up your trail from the Visitor Centre and see if you can find the naughty gnomes and win a prize! Available during Museum opening hours. www.headstonemanor.org

April Sun 1 – Mon 2 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. Knights demonstrate their skills in hand to hand combat to the delight of the crowds who are encouraged to cheer, and jeer, their favourite knights. There are two scheduled jousting displays on both days at about 12.30 and 2.30pm. www.knebworthhouse.com Tue 3 Apr - Family Day: Georgian Easter Celebration (WC2N) Take part in a special Easter egg hunt inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s inventions and scientific work. Suitable for children aged 5-11. At Benjamin Franklin House from 11am-12.30pm. www.benjaminfranklinhouse.org Wed 4 Apr - Family Film: Coco (WD3) Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, young Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz.

Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead. After meeting a charming trickster named Hector, the two new friends embark on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history.

Showings at 11am, 2pm and 5pm at Watersmeet Theatre. www.watersmeet.co.uk Wed 4 Apr - Family Art Day: Art Collectors (N1) Go to the Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art and create your own art collection trading cards. Include exciting information labels and swap them with others to design your own exhibitions.

This is a drop-in workshop so no booking is required. Free for children accompanied by a paying adult. www.estorickcollection.com

20 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

MORE

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

money you raise will help Save the Children’s work to transform the lives of vulnerable children in the UK and around the world. www.muddypuddlewalk.org

Ink Stamped Poems at the Foundling Museum Wed 4 – Sun 8 Apr – Disney on Ice: Worlds of Enchantment (HA9) Enter the dazzling world of Disney magic, live on ice at the SSE Arena Wembley! Thrill to high-speed stunts as Lightning McQueen, Mater and the crew of Disney/Pixar’s Cars race across the ice like you’ve never seen before! Dive into adventure with Ariel in The Little Mermaid’s enchanted undersea kingdom. The toys are back in town when Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Jessie and the Toy Story gang escape from the rambunctious tots of Sunnyside Daycare in their most daring adventure ever! Plus, enter the wintry world of Arendelle with sisters Anna and Elsa and pals Olaf and Kristoff from Disney’s Frozen, as they learn that true love comes from within. www.disneyonice.com Thu 5 & Thu 12 Apr - Pond Dipping (N3) Find out more about underwater creatures at a guided pond dipping session at Stephens House and Gardens. Those taking part will be given a net and tray to look closer at some of the pond’s inhabitants and will be given the chance to examine the creatures with the help of staff before returning them to the water safely. Places Limited booking essential. Sessions take place at 11am & 2pm on both days. www.stephenshouseandgardens.com Fri 6 – Sun 8 Apr - The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party (NW7) Introduce your children to books in this immersive & interactive family adventure at Mill Hill Library. Meet Alice and the White Rabbit as they take you on their magical journey through the library to find the Mad Hatter’s tea party. Finish the day with a wonderful show and a yummy slice of cake...if you can find the Mad Hatter that is! Everyday 3pm to 4pm and 10:30am to 11:30am on Friday. www.barnet.gov.uk info@bigtimeacademy.com Sun 8 Apr - Spring is Sprung! (HA2) Winter’s gone! Summer is on its way! What are the signs that spring is here today? Go along to Headstone Manor Museum and find out, complete the poem, then make a beautiful blossom wall hanging. Part of the Free Monthly Family Events in the Granary Learning Centre! Drop in anytime between 11am and 3pm. Suitable for ages 5+ and their grown-ups! www.headstonemanor.org Mon 9 – Fri 13 Apr - Easter Crafts at Ashridge Estate (HP4) Go along and make your own Easter craft before enjoying a walk in the Ashridge

familiesonline.co.uk

woods. They supply all the materials and instructions, you just need you to take the artistic flair! www.nationaltrust.org.uk Wed 11 Apr - Animal Sculptures (WC1N) Join artist Lydia Hardwick at the Foundling Museum for this sculpture workshop. Using mixed media, build a 3D model of the animals featured in The Lost Words. Suitable for age 5+. 11am-1pm & 2-4.30pm. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Fri 13 Apr - Ink Stamped Poems (WC1N) In this creative writing workshop at the Foundling Museum, imagine animals featured in The Lost Words. Make rubber letter stamps then write your own acrostic poem using stamped, printed and written words and pictures. With artist Isobel Manning. Suitable for age 5+. Sessions run 10:30am-12pm, 1-2.30pm & 3-4.30pm. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Sun 15 Apr - A Funny Thing Happened (WC1N) Go along to the Foundling Museum for a brilliant, fun, laugh out loud poetry show workshop where you get to change the world in your pocket! Warning – show contains rhymes and highly infectious laughter, make no plans for the next day. Aimed at children and families, this will be fun for the whole family. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Sun 15 Apr – PJ Masks in the Park (SG3) On the 15th April, Catboy and Owlette from PJ Masks will be making appearances in Knebworth Park at intervals between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. There will be photo opportunities so don’t forget to take your camera! There is no additional charge to see Catboy and Owlette as the event is included with a Park & Gardens admission ticket. And remember, under 3’s go free! www.knebworthhouse.com Mon 23 – Sun 29 Apr - Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children (Various) This Spring will see the return of the UK’s muddiest fundraising event for little ones – Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children. Whether you splash in puddles along a trail at the park or get creative and make your own puddles indoors from paper and foil – your Muddy Puddle Walk will be a fun day to spend together that littles ones won’t forget. Raise funds in the way that suits you – help walkers get sponsored for their walk, ask for a donation to take part or even bake Muddy Puddle cupcakes to sell on the day! The

Sat 28 Apr – Lots for Tots Sale Rickmansworth (WD3) The Rickmansworth sales take place at Rickmansworth School and will have at least 35 tables selling great quality items. The sale has been successfully running in Rickmansworth for 10 years and is popular throughout Chorleywood, Sarratt, Croxley Green and Watford. Parking is completely free and directly outside the building. The sale opens to the public at 10.00am and finishes at 11.30. info@lotsfortotssale.co.uk www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk Sat 28 Apr - London Jam (E14) Go along to the Museum of London Docklands, be inspired by the Crosse and Blackwell factory which was located near the River Thames in Bermondsey and create your own imaginary jam recipe. What will your favourite flavours be? A free drop in session for ages 5+. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands Sat 5 – Tue 8 May - Mill Hill Art Exhibition (NW7) Go and vote for your favourite picture on the Bank Holiday weekend at Trinity Church, The Broadway, Mill Hill, NW7 3TB (next to Mill Hill Circus roundabout). There will be over 150 paintings by Milldon Art Society and entry is free. Sat 5 May 2-8pm, Sun 6 May 1-8pm, Mon 7 May 10am-8pm, Tues 8 May 10am-5pm. www.milldonartsociety.org.uk Sun 6 May - Watford 10K (WD18) The ever popular Watford 10k returns once again in 2018, with the race taking place along the beautiful Bluebell Route in Cassiobury Park. The longestablished race, organised on behalf of Watford Mencap will, once again, be looking to attract runners of all abilities, from novices to experienced runners. In addition to the main 10k race there will also be the popular 3k race for Juniors and the youngsters 1k fun run - and all events will once again be chip timed. www.watford10k.org.uk Sun 6 - Mon 7 May - Steam Gala & Model Railway Exhibition (HP22) The annual feast of railways of all sizes at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre. With up to 5 locomotives in steam, model railway layouts inside the visitor centre, a miniature railway to ride, as well as trade stands and much more, there will be plenty to sample in the atmosphere of the steam age. www.bucksrailcentre.org Mon 7 May - Watford Celebration (WD18) A colourful, multi cultural event with performance, children’s activities, international food and inter-faith discussion at the Multi Cultural Community Centre. In Celebration you can see performances of music and dance from many cultures, foods provided by people of many nationalities in a lunch time sampling, for which a donation of £2 is asked, a sacred space for those who would like to discuss their beliefs, activities for children including a bouncy castle and free refreshments all day. www.watfordcelebration.com

Families North West London 21

Easter/Summer Camps

Believe it or not…

the Easter and Summer holidays are on their way!

Type IT!

DAY CAMPS Aqua Vie – 5 days consecutive swimming lessons in Bushey. 01923 245773 www.aqua-vie.com Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club 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 Aspire Offer Ofsted-registered activity camps during the school breaks.

Camps are great for 5 - 14 year olds and are run by experienced staff. 020 8420 6725, www.aspire.org.uk Blag Youth Theatre - Fame meets School of Rock. 2 week summer school Chorleywood, Rickmansworth. 10.00am-6.00pm. 2 Performances at the Elgiva Theatre, Chesham. Price £285.00. 10% off when you mention Families.

23rd July - 4th August 2018. It’s gonna be awesome!

01923 772320 www.blagtheatre.co.uk Blank Canvas Art Club Easter Workshops - “Every child’s an artist” said Picasso! Give your child an artistic outlet this Easter with these fun and fabulous workshops for children age 6+. For ages 8-18 there’s 2 days of our “Paint a Van Gogh Canvas” workshop (9.30-3pm 12&13 Apr) where they recreate a masterpiece in acrylic on canvas . For ages 6+ there’s our “Disney Day”, our ever popular “Imagination day” and a “How to train a Dragon” sessions (9.30-12 noon 9, 10, 11 Apr).

Places are limited and prices start at £25 Get in touch with Suzi now at blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com or 07773 819 603 to book your child’s space. www.Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub

DiscoG Coding Academy will be running a series of hands-on coding bootcamps to introduce the key concepts of the Python Programming Language. In our Mini Coders Bootcamps for 6 - 8 year olds, children will learn to visually express their creativity in the form of digital art.

Our Young Coders Bootcamp for 9 - 14 year olds introduces coding through the fascinating world of electronics. Students will take part in a series of simple projects, use a breadboard to build and control basic electronic circuits with LEDs, buzzers, traffic lights, morse code and much more…

Sign up to DiscoG Coding Academy’s half-term, Easter or Summer Holiday Bootcamps to start your coding journey today!

Call Gerard on: 07767300940 www.discogcodingacademy.com Location: 504 Kenton Lane, Harrow, HA3 8RD

The Elms School Holiday Multi-Sports Camps – Action packed daily sports camps running in Stanmore, Hatch End, Ruislip, Barnet, Amersham and many more areas! Football, hockey, tennis, netball and many more sports for ages 4-12 years. 020 8954 8787 www.elmsholidaycamps.co.uk Explore Learning – Offer Maths and English tuition sessions for 5-14 year olds throughout the school holidays. 01483 447414www.explorelearning.org.uk Harrow Woodcraft Folk Fun & freedom in the countryside, at their weekend camps all summer, for all the family. Camp craft such as putting up tents & fire lighting; group games in the fields and woods; exploring nature; arts and crafts and campfire songs & stories. Call 0208 428 2409 www.woodcraft.org. uk Hillingdon Outdoor Activities Centre (HOAC) Sailing, Windsurfing, Kayaking and Land activities for 5-18 yr olds.01895 824 171 www.hoac.net Holiday and term time one to one preparation for 4+ and 5+ entry for assessments in 2018 in the comfort of your home. Experienced Montessori teacher with excellent results in all the top schools. Please contact Karen on 07887-984401 or at wilkin@afrormosia.com.

Holidaytime Holiday Club – Holiday club open 7.30am-6pm for children aged 3-13 years. Indoor and outdoor space. swimming pool, sports, arts and crafts, cooking, trips, workshops, free time. Qualified and experienced staff.

Full day, half day booking, Childcare vouchers except. 07794078452 holidays@activetime.co.uk www.activetime.co.uk JK Educate 11+ Workshops - JK Educate Workshop series helps children succeed in 11+ exams. Sunday, 15th April: English workshop 9am – 1pm; Maths workshop 1.30pm – 5.30pm at Stephens House and Gardens, 17 East End Road, London N3 3QE. www.jkeducate.co.uk 020 3488 0754 Jigsaw Summer Schools – designed to provide enjoyable and stimulating performing arts activities for students during the school holidays. The sessions are split into age groups of 3 to 5 years and 6 to 16 years. 020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

22 Families North West London

familiesonline.co.uk

Easter/Summer Camps

Kids Can Achieve Run playschemes for children with additional needs. The playscheme is all about your child having fun through play and structured activities, and sessions are arranged around constructive play, arts and crafts, outdoor play and swimming. 020 8420 2300 www.kidscanachieve.co.uk Little Big Leaders - Is your child struggling with their Reading, Maths or English and aged 3.5 to 11? That’s where we come in with affordably priced lessons, term time and Summer School with results. Call NOW 020 3637 6266 (24hrs) www.littlebigleaders.com Little Kickers Courses running throughout the summer. Football training for kids from 18 months to under 7 years. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, South Harrow & 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 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 London- on 07766 837 616

Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts From 20th-25th August Sharpe Academy will be running a Musical Theatre Summer School at Watersmeet in Rickmansworth. 01923 711063 www.sharpeacademy.co.uk Stitch Club Textile and Art Workshops in our dedicated Stitch Studio in central Pinner. Suitable for boys and girls aged 8+. All fabrics and materials supplied. 0750 300 1024 www.stitch.club 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 in Easter and Summer holidays. To book contact Type IT! on 020 8434 7111. www.typeitforkids.co.uk

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 zesty fitness, a unique programme of toning circuit & zumba. Small class sizes, cosy studio, unique personal touch.

Plus I offer regular Zesty Little Star Camp every half term for your kids: Join me for 3 fun days of filfulled zesty fitness during Easter Holiday from Wednesday 11 to Friday 13 April 18. - 10am to 2pm. Discover a unique camp offering high quality and personalised coaching with dynamic dancing, fitness and yoga training. From swiss ball exercises, dancing games, coordination parkour and yoga animal poses, we will have such fun moments to build strength and learn new fitness skills!

To check dates and prices, visit /marionbignone.zumba.com/ zesty-little-holiday-camp

www.activetime.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 23