Families NW London July/Aug 2014 Issue 94

Issue 94: July/August 2014 www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

FREE North West London Including North Middlesex and South Hertfordshire (Queens Park, Wembley, Edgware, Stanmore, Harrow, Northolt, Northwood, Watford and all the areas in between)

Over 10 pages to help you plan:

WHAT TO DO WITH THE KIDS THIS SUMMER!

PLUS

Competitions, What’s On and much more inside!

In this issue:

Welcome to the July/August issue!

CONTACT US:

www.facebook.com/ FamiliesNWLondon

Families North West London Magazine

@FamiliesNW Circulation 30,000+ copies every issue.

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

Editors: Heather Waddington and Janine Mergler P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF T: 01923 237 004 E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

6 Babies: The Wonder Weeks 7 What’s New 8 Education: Stop the Summer Slide 12 Making Summer Memories 13 What to do with the KIDS this Summer!

20 Local Clubs and Classes

Upcoming IssueS: September 2014: Clubs and Classes Deadline: Monday 4 August 2014 Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Front cover image: Deposit Photos © Eduard Stelmakh

Trending articles on the FNWL website: ▲▲ What’s On for kids and families

in July & August 2014

▲▲ Children’s Summer Holiday

Camps & Courses Summer 2014

▲▲ 20 Memories you can make with

your family this summer

Scan our QR code to take you straight to the most current local information! www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

A Truly Unforgettable Party!

These fast and fun Inflatable and Trampoline parties are ideal for 3 – 14 years. Offering 3 huge inflatables, a trampoline and staff. We cater for all your needs!

Held at Breakspeare School Sports Centre in the heart of Abbots Langley, this is an idyllic setting for a special birthday party. We offer 1 hour and 15 minutes of jam packed fun with music and 45 minutes of food time in the colourful themed food room.

The main hall offers 3 huge Inflatables, trampoline and access to a soft play room.

£185

per party!

Call to make your booking today!

01923 270980

£5 million public liability with every party. Website offers a full gallery and film clip.

www.bouncy-castle.com

e-mail: contact@bouncy-castle.com 2

NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

www.activetime.co.uk

News & Views from around North West London FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk has a Fresh New Look We are delighted to announce Families Online is now much easier to use than ever.

Our fresh re-branding expresses our aim to cover all things ‘families’, as well as offering ‘endless ideas for families’. You can set the website to show only information local to you. Simply enter your postcode once and the site will remember you after that, no need to log in. Use our interactive Whatson calendar to search for things to do locally (or where you want to go), our Directories are filled with clubs & classes, schools & nurseries, party entertainers etc and we have a huge amount of content of interest. It’s all for you and to make your life easier! www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Summer Holiday Camp - 10% Discount for Families Readers with Perform Fly away to Neverland with Peter Pan, Wendy, the Lost Boys, Tinkerbell… for local 4-8 year olds. Their five day courses will take children on a magical trip to Neverland with Peter Pan, Wendy, John and Michael as they help rescue Tinkerbell from the dastardly Captain Hook.

Perform’s energetic young team of actors, musicians and dancers will be with them every step of the way to inspire and encourage. Using funky dance and quick-witted improvisation, they’ll take the children on a dazzling adventure guaranteed to fire their imaginations culminating in a fantastic show what will delight family and friends.

The cost of the course is £149 (with a 25% discount for siblings and reductions for groups). Book by 1st August and receive 10% off when you quote FAMI220814.

Eastcote’s Coteford Children’s Centre – here to help!

Within the heart of the community, Coteford Children’s Centre supports and nurtures all, offering services and activities for parents and children aged 0-5, ranging from parenting courses, adult education and stay & play sessions for various age ranges.

Their timetable is updated on a monthly basis and this gives you full details of services. Staff at the centre are also available to give advice on a range of subjects including weaning, breast feeding support, behaviour, hygiene routines and health eating. www.cotefordchildrenscentre.co.uk. 01895 671963

www.perform.org.uk 0845 400 1275.

Swimming School •Take the Plunge.

Learn to Swim •Boost swimming skills •Increase confidence •Small groups •One to One •Children and adults •In Bushey and Northwood

Tel: 07925 954144

aquastyle@aquaswim.org

www.aquaswim.org

NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

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News and Views Learning to Swim with Aweswim Aweswim’s runs swim schools in Watford, Kings Langley and St Albans and Royston in Herts and others further afield.

In order to provide the highest possible quality of teaching groups are kept to a maximum of six students so that each participant’s progress can be carefully monitored. For adults and children that would prefer one-to-one teaching private lesson are also offered with the advantage that teaching can be specifically tailored to the needs of the individual.

For a unique experience they offer ‘My First Swim’, where parents can hire the pool and take their baby for her or his very first dip. Because it is an exclusive occasion photographs can be taken of this special moment (photography is not allowed during group swimming lessons). During these sessions siblings and extended family can watch a comfortable viewing area.

01923 53 70 70

www.aweswim.co.uk

Boys Thrive at Buckingham College Prep “A happy school full of busy, motivated, polite and smiling boys.” This was Loraine Cavanagh’s first impression of Buckingham College Prep School, when she took over as Head at this thriving Pinner prep school in November.

The school aims to produce happy, motivated, independent thinkers, confident all-rounders who are well prepared for the wide range of excellent independent senior and grammar schools to which they transfer at 11+, often with academic, music and drama scholarships. “We want our boys to succeed academically,” says Mrs Cavanagh, “but at the same time and just as importantly, we aim to seek out the talent in each individual In music, sport and art.” The school sees these as the life skills which prepare the boys for the future, enhancing and building resilience, an ethic of working hard, strength of character and above all, a feeling of high achievement and self-esteem, not just for their choice of senior school, but for life.

“We want our pupils to be life-long learners, flexible lateral thinkers and we aim to lay the foundations here at Buckingham College Prep.”

The school welcomes visitors who can experience for themselves the palpable atmosphere of enthusiasm, joy of learning and celebration of success. www.buckprep.org

Enro l for Su Now m Work mer shop s!

Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford call: 0208 123 9346 email: jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet call: 0208 201 1084 email: jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk Harrow (HA3), North Wembley and Bushey call: 0208 422 0676 email: niro@littlekickers.co.uk

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News and Views Volunteers needed for Pram Shed museum

A ‘man trap’ used in the 19th century to catch trespassers is one of the many fascinating objects displayed at the Pram Shed, a mini-museum on the Manor Farm site in Ruislip, which is packed with historical farming tools. Hillingdon Council, which manages the Manor Farm site, is now asking people to volunteer to help the Pram Shed stay open for longer, particularly on weekends and bank holidays, after investing £15,000 of Chrysalis funding to weatherproof the building.

The collection of farming tools displayed in Pram Shed gives a real insight into what rural life was like at that time and it would be wonderful if we could give even more residents the opportunity to visit the Pram Shed and enjoy learning about our borough’s farming history. If you have time to spare and are interested in becoming one of the many valued volunteers at Manor Farm, please do get in touch.

Potential volunteers can email artsvenues@hillingdon.gov.uk or register at the volunteers section of www.compasstheatre.co.uk

Stagecoach Students make West End debut Students from local Stagecoach schools had the chance to perform on a West End stage when they recently took part in a spectacular musical celebration at one of London’s most famous venues, Her Majesty’s Theatre. Students aged 7-18 years, from Stagecoach Harrow, Stanmore, and Uxbridge schools were among students from 14 Stagecoach Schools who entertained the audience with a lively programme of songs and routines from favourite musicals.

Principal Emmy Hamilton said “ It’s an invaluable experience to work at such a professional level and a real achievement for all the dedicated students involved. The opportunity to perform at the home of Phantom of the Opera is unforgettable and a real boost for their confidence as individuals and performers!’’.

Stagecoach is Britain’s largest group of part-time theatre schools, now in their 26th year, offering quality training in drama, dance and singing to young people from 4-18 years at weekends, after school and in the holidays where classes are designed to build confidence and develop communication through performance skills. Currently there are over 620 schools in the UK. For your nearest holiday workshop check out the website. www.stagecoach.co.uk/holidayworkshops

The complete labelling solution – because kids lose stuff!

Labels4Kids offers a wide range of name labels, so whatever you need to be able to identify, they’ve got a solution, with labels for school, camp, sports clubs, daycare, and more. Choose from iron on labels, sew in labels, sticky labels, click on labels, and dishwasher and microwave-proof labels for water bottles or lunch boxes. Labels4Kids offers such a large, tried and tested amount of labels that there really is something for everyone. Labels4Kids continues the expansion and modernisation of their website to make the ordering process faster and smoother. Not only can you design your vinyl order onscreen now, but postage is free for orders of £20 or more, and they have a 100% money-back guarantee if you have any problems with your labels. Labels4Kids apologise for any ordering problems you may have encountered last year during the website move which took longer than expected but is now completed. The popular company is expecting a very busy summer, so do remember to get your orders in early at the start of summer to guarantee a quick turnaround in time for school. Follow them on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter or Flickr, or sign up to their blog for news of more developments later this year! Progressing labelling for your benefit, Labels4Kids care, because try as they might, kids DO lose stuff! www.labels4kids.com/fam

PC & Laptop Repairs, Training and Support ……………… for Home Users and Local Businesses ……………… in Herts, Bucks, Middlesex and West London ………………

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NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

5

Babies

What on earth are Wonder Weeks?

By Frans Plooij, an international expert on the mental development of infants and author of The Wonder Weeks Have you ever wondered what’s going on in your baby’s head?

Why does a normally well-tempered baby suddenly become difficult and demanding? No, it’s not cramps, teething or other standard answers. It’s a wonder week! When this phase is over, your baby will be doing things he could not do before. Wonder Weeks are key developmental leaps in every baby’s life.

They influence the rest of a child’s life.

Frans Plooij shares his five golden tips with Families.

1. Stop doubting yourself or your baby.

All babies go through ten wonder weeks during his first 20. Every wonder week consists of three phases: the fussy phase, the week of wonders (in which he is happy again and suddenly does a lot of new things), and the practice period. The fussy phase is the phase in which parents start doubting themselves, or even worse, their baby. The truth is there is nothing wrong with either you or your baby. Remember: the fussy behaviour is actually a sign of a gigantic leap forward.

fussy phase shorter and sweeter. A parent who is able to really understand what a baby is going through and what the baby wants to discover in that particular wonder week, is helping their baby to build up self-confidence, happiness and from a developmental point of view: stimulating the brain in the right way.

4. Don’t see the fussy phase as a carte blanche to stop parenting.

OK, we now know when the leaps will start and when they will end. Yes, these wonder weeks will start and end without any interference from you. However, this does not mean you should just wait for them to pass! You should really help your baby, be there for your baby and show him he can rely on you. He’s going through a hard time and needs your help and love.

5. Try to see the world through your baby’s eyes!

This is of course in line with informing your self about what you baby perceives in each leap so you can help him, but it’s also just a lot of fun.

During the leap of patterns (8 weeks), your baby loves observing patterns.

So these kinds of pants will be a visual treat!

2. Know when the leap starts and when it ends.

The good news is you can calculate pretty accurately when your baby will be making a leap. The leaps are based on the due date. Not the date of birth. (see book) 3. Inform yourself about the leap.

This is really the most important thing to do. If you know what your baby is looking for in a particular leap you can make the

Do you know why a baby now starts to look at your eyes and mouth, and before only at the outsides of your head? Before

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk more local events, news, competitions and features!

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this leap he could only really perceive contrasts.

So he would look at the contrasts of your face against the light sky.

After the second leap he looks at the patterns in your face: your eyes, mouth and your hairline.

Does he move a bit like Pinocchio? That’s because his body now is able to move in patterns. The ‘ah ah oh oh’ sounds he now makes? Patterns with his vocal cords!

Try following a moving object with your eyes and feel how your eyes are making a smooth movement. Your baby is now able to do this for the first time in his life.

It’s so much fun to see the world through your baby’s eyes and if you know what to look for in each wonder week, you’ll see so much more of the special things your baby does and you’ll be so much more equipped to give him the proper help.

The Wonder Weeks.

How to stimulate your baby’s mental development and help him turn his 10 predictable, great, fussy phases into magical leaps forward describes in easy-to-understand terms the incredible developmental changes that all babies go through during the first 20 months of their lives.

Available at Amazon, Waterstones and your local bookstore.

Price: £15.99

What’s New Kozi Kidz’ Waterproof All-in-Ones Family festivals are on the rise and children’s clothing expert Kozi Kidz has festival fashion for your baby or toddler wrapped up with its colourful and practical Waterproof All-in-Ones. Offering 100% protection from wind and rain, the all-in-ones are perfect for guaranteeing that less than perfect weather doesn’t impact on the family fun. RRP £39.80 www.kozikidz.com Families Rating: ★★★★

Aubrey Natural Suncare for Kids Safe, natural and effective, these new sun screens will leave little ones skin hydrated and protected. UVA and B protection featuring organic aloe to soothe and hydrate the skin. Water resistant for 40 minutes. Unscented, Reef safe, vegan friendly, gluten free and not tested on animals.

RRP £15.98 www.aubreyorganicsuk.co.uk and health food stores.

Families Rating: ★★★★★

Almondella gift boxes Almodella have hand-picked the most thoughtful gifts tailored to your baby’s age and delivering them direct to your door each month in a beautifully wrapped box.

There are 36 baby boxes with a selection of up to 5 care products per box comprised of, toys & clothing and has a retail saving of up to 50%. 1, 3 or 6 month subscriptions available.Starting from £37 a month.

Trial box £12. Free Delivery www.almondella.com Families Rating: ★★★★

Tried and tested!

Pogu High Visibility Buggy Reflectors Available in black or silver, both colours reflect bright white and are 100 times more visible than non-reflective materials in low light conditions. Discreet in daylight, this is a hassle free safety accessory for any stroller or pushchair. RRP £7.99 www.poguinfant.co.uk Families Rating: ★★★★

Born Free straw cup Be prepared for this summer’s picnic season with a Born Free straw cup.

The straw cup is a fantastic safe and spill-proof cup that incorporates a twisting soft silicone straw mechanism to keep the straw clean and ensure comfortable drinking. Suitable for 12+ months. BPA free. RRP £4.99 www.babybornfree.co.uk Families Rating: ★★★★

LumiPotti This day to night potty with a night light encourages children’s natural progression through every stage for total toilet training. The innovative, movement activated night light helps children master night dryness. Even once day and ight dry are mastered, LumiPotti Light becomes a portable night-light for that final stage, the independent night walk to the bathroom.

Summer Offer £19.99 plus P&P www.lumipotti.com Families Rating: ★★★★

New Books Help! I’m a Dad: All a new dad needs to know about the difficult first few months by Nick Harper. With a combination of expert advice from midwives and health visitors, along with first-hand accounts from mums and dads who have already been there, Nick Harper shares his hard-won experience in this indispensable book for every prospective father. This book covers all the nuts and bolts: from nappies and transport to feeding, bathing, sleeping and more. RRP: £9.99. Available from all good book stores Families Rating: ★★★★ My Dad’s Beard - Zanib Mian. My Dad’s Beard is a brilliantly illustrated and funny story, about a little boy’s love for his father, personified through his beard. The book is targeted at 2-7 year olds. From biscuits lodged in Dad’s facial hair and questioning his handsomeness without the growth to tickly kisses and symbols of refuge, the young character expresses his amusing thoughts on his father’s beard. Sweet Apple Publishers, June 2014. RRP: £5.99. Available from all good book shops.

Families Rating: ★★★ New Dad’s Survival Guide – Rob Kemp. In this useful guide for new dads, Rob Kemp, the best-selling author of The Expectant Dad’s Survival Guide, reveals what to expect in the first 18 months. Covering everything from how to bond with your baby and support his development to practical issues, such as how to manage your working arrangements and finances, this book gives new dads the confidence, skills and knowledge to enjoy fatherhood – and do a brilliant job of it.

Vermillion/Trade Paperback June 2014. RRP £10.99 Available from all good book shops.

Families Rating: ★★★★ How to Get Kids Offline, Outdoors, and Connecting with Nature; 200+ Creative activities to encourage self-esteem, mindfulness and wellbeing - Bonnie Thomas. Full of ideas, activities and exercises, this book provides imaginative ways to inspire young people to put down the computer games, disconnect from social media, and spend more time away from a screen. In whatever capacity you work or care for children and young people, this book will help you motivate them to reboot their connection with nature and become healthier for it. RRP £15.99 Available from all good bookshops.

Families Rating: ★★★★★ NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

7

Education

Avoid summer regression!

Prepare your child for their new school year and assessments Summer holidays are a perfect time to play, have fun and gently prepare your child for their return to school and assessments.

So, what can you do?

Start by reading through end of year school reports and check the targets that have been set in the various subjects you want to cover over the summer.

Use these to form the basis of the summer work at home.

Read books, visit museums and invest in plenty of discussions together - this will all help to support new learning over the summer.

In addition, trips to the local bookstore and purchasing online will provide the range of inexpensive revision workbooks you will need for the targeted summer work. Visits to the cinema, theatre and talking book CDs will provide lots of language opportunities and bring books to life for reluctant readers.

Educational publishers provide excellent revision materials for summer work. For example, CGP have lots of colourful practice books available, which are easily accessible to all students at primary and secondary school levels. Their books contain clear explanations and useful follow-on practice questions, which provide step by step explanations for you and your children to follow and learn from.

In addition Schofield and Sims, Lett’s and Scholastic all offer suitable materials for summer revision and learning.

If your child is starting on the 11+ journey, then the Bond series will be helpful with a range of materials available

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from Oxford University Press who took over Bond. It’s important to take professional advice before deciding to take the 11+ as you need to make sure it is appropriate for your child’s ability. You can ask your school, check the national curriculum levels and also complete some of the assessments in the 11+ instructional books from Bond and CGP. There are also teachers and organisations that will assess including Jaderberg Krais, www. jaderbergkrais.co.uk Once work has been learned, children should test themselves and then work through their mistakes to make sure they can find the answer, checking their progress as they go along. If correct, they should continue, if not they should go through the explanations and try again if they’re not sure. Parents should monitor, only intervening once second attempts have failed and they really need further explanations and examples. Parents often step in too early, thinking that explaining answers early on will address the problem.

In fact the opposite is true, children need to be able to work successfully alone to really be sure their understanding is correct and they have embedded a new concept or way of working. They also feel a greater sense of satisfaction if they achieve this on independently.

Parents’ enthusiasm for learning is contagious and children will be far more eager to learn over the summer if they believe it is valued and it is approached in a positive and enthusiastic way, with

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rewards in place such as sticker charts and treats agreed together.

A daily schedule of fun and learning together activities will help children respond positively. When they feel included in decision making and perceive they have some control, they become far more motivated and see the challenge as exciting and worthwhile.

So, there’s no need to worry about going back to school – simply continue over the summer with fun and stimulating activities, rewards and positive feedback and watch your children flourish and grow ready for their new year…

Summer study resources may be bought from: www.cgpbooks.co.uk www.schofieldandsims.co.uk www.scholastic.co.uk https://global.oup.com/education/content/ children/series/bond/?region=uk www.collins.co.uk/category/Revision

Lorrae Jaderberg and Katie Krais are two highlyqualified and experienced teachers specialising in helping school children achieve their potential, whilst also supporting parents and carers. They offer advice and guidance on all aspects of education through their consultancy, www.jaderbergkrais.co.uk

Education News

By Joanna Parry

Grammar school shake-up Over 50% of state grammar schools are planning serious changes to their admissions policies in order to attract pupils from more disadvantaged backgrounds, according to the Grammar School Heads Association.

30 of the country’s 164 selective schools have already agreed the move, with another 58 planning to do so shortly, following a report from education charity the Sutton Trust which said that grammar schools were being monopolised by students from wealthier homes. Michael Wilshaw, chief schools inspector, said they were ‘stuffed full’ of middle class children and so failed to improve social mobility.

Under these new changes many grammar schools will reserve places specifically for pupils from poorer homes who pass the 11-plus. Barry Sindall, chief executive of the GSHA, added that the new admissions rules would not mean a reduction in the number of places for children from better off homes.

These changes follow on from Schools Minister David Laws revealing that the Government is involved in talks with grammar school heads to make 11-plus tests less ‘coachable’, to avoid middle class parents gaining an advantage through being able to afford private tutoring.

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Education News

By Joanna Parry

New Children and Families Act A landmark Act comes into law this summer giving greater protection to vulnerable children, better support for children whose parents are separating and help for parents to balance work and family life.

It will also help children with Special Educational Needs and disabilities, while ensuring vital changes to the adoption system meaning more children who need loving homes are placed faster. The Act will also make it easier for families to access more flexible childcare, while making amendments to the law to protect children in cars from the dangers of second-hand smoke, and giving parents new options to share parental leave following the birth of a baby. Possibly the most interesting change is that from this June every employee across the country will be granted the right to request flexible working hours, with a duty on employers to consider requests in a ‘reasonable’ manner.

‘Current workplace arrangements have not kept up with the times,’ said Jenny Willott, Employment Relations Minister.

‘By enabling any employee to request to work flexibly, we want to remove any cultural assumption that flexible working is only for women, or just for parents and carers.

The new system is good for business as it will create a more motivated and flexible, talented workforce. Employers will be able to attract and retain women – from the boardroom to the shop floor - and prevent them from dropping out of the world of work once they start a family.’

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Families Summer Summer

20 memories you can make with your family this summer!

Joanna Moorhead has some ideas on how to do it Summer is a great time to enjoy being together with your nearest and dearest. But for many families these days, even together time is dominated by mobiles phones, iPads, TV and other devices. According to a recent survey, even kids themselves recognise the need to unplug and welcome the chance to ‘do something different’.

Butterfly World Project

Here are our top 20 ideas for what that ‘something different’ might be.

1. Go wild swimming: swimming in a pond or lake, or in the sea, is a very different experience from an indoor pool 2. Build a den: whether you do this indoors or in the garden, or out in the woods or on the beach, you’ll have loads of fun.

9. Borrow a dog for a weekend: if you’re not a dog-owning family, having one on loan for a few days can be a hugely rewarding experience. See www.borrowmydoggy.com

3. Go fruit picking: not only will you have a good time, you’ll also be setting up your next family project - making jam!

10. Climb a big hill: this can be a mountain or a fairly small hill, depending on how old your children are.

4. Sleep under canvas: for families that haven’t camped, just one night away, or even in the garden, can be a huge adventure.

5. Cook on a campfire: this is a perfect addon to your camping adventure. Get advice online about how to build your fire and what foods are best to cook on it.

6. Go on a long bike ride: if you’ve all got your own bikes you probably do this all the time. If not, it can be a really fabulous and different day out to hire bikes and follow a cycle trail.

7. Play a board game: a game like Monopoly or Cluedo, which children can play from a young age or can play in teams, is a genuinely bonding experience.

8. Reorganise your family photographs: online galleries are a great way of sharing pictures with relatives and friends – but there’s a huge amount of fun to be had from creating an old fashioned album together.

11. Go fishing: you can do this with a net in the rock pools at the beach, or in a stream or river inland.

12. Have a snail race: find some snails, and set up the course; place bets on which snail will win, and watch the action unfold.

13. Go star-gazing: do some research beforehand, and when you get a clear evening, head off in to a space where the sky is open in search of the North Pole, Saturn and the Plough.

14. Hunt for treasure or bones: beaches can be great places for this, or look online to see if there are any ‘treasure troves’ near you (eg if you’re in London, mudraking on the banks of the Thames has plenty of potential).

15. Go geocaching: ok, so this is one activity you will need your mobile phone for. But the high-tech treasure hunt is fascinating, and it pulls all members of the family in.

Try it!

More information at www.geocaching.com/

SportsKids - Multi-Sports Academy Sports Activities for 4 to 16 year olds Tel: 01923 255099

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 12

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16. Switch roles in the kitchen: if you’re usually the meal-maker, and the children are usually the table-setters, do things the other way round.

17. Have a family talent show: this is a good one when you have another family or relatives visiting. Everyone has to do a turn; no wriggling out allowed, however shy the mums and dads are.

18. Make a family journal or scrap book: this can be a good project for a family holiday or a school holiday. Like a talent show, everyone needs to contribute something – a review of a local pub, an accounts of a day out, or a book review.

19. Fly a kite: they’re cheap and easy to buy, or you can even make your own. Read up on tips about how to fly them at www. thekitesociety.org.

20. Go birdwatching: you don’t need to know anything about birds to enjoy watching them, but if you go to a birdwatching sanctuary or wetlands centre you’ll learn loads.

For more information see www.wwt.org.uk

Families Summer Day Summer Camps

DAY CAMPS Whether you are looking for a change of pace and variety for the kids, or just a peaceful day for yourself, Day Camps are a great place to spend some of those long summer days.

Many of these will have last minute availability but best to book in advance if you can!

Apex Multisports run a series of fun and affordable Multi-Activity and Dance holiday camps every school break across various locations in Hertfordshire. www.apexmultisports.co.uk/apex-camps or email Ricky.Boxall@apexmultisports.co.uk.

Aqua Style – Run fast track swimming courses during the holidays.

These are available in Northwood and Bushey. 020 8931 1811 www.aquaswim.org Aqua Vie – 5 days consecutive swimming lessons in Kingsbury and Bushey. 07814 987 153 www.aqua-vie.com Art and Craft Summer Camp with My Sisters and Me. Summer Camp at Harrow Arts Centre from Mon 29 July – Fri 2 August. 9.30am-3pm, for ages 5-11 years. 07946 055 422 info@mysistersandme.co.uk www.mysistersandme.co.uk 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 Barracudas Day Camps are for children aged 4-16 yrs. All camps are OFSTED registered. Offering 29 locations centres at summer camps including Watford, Northwood and Barnet.

0845 123 5299 www.barracudas.co.uk BrightStars Learning Summer School is a two-week English and arithmetic programme aimed at 4 -11 year olds. Based in Edgeware, Middlesex. Contact Reena Damani on 07538 656810 brightstarslearning.co.uk Explore Learning – Offer Maths and English tuition sessions for 5-14 year olds throughout the school holidays.

01895 636378 www.explorelearning.org.uk

Fit For Sport delivering OFSTED registered Activity Camps for children aged between 3 – 12 years old. Fit for Sport, the UK’s Leading Healthy Lifestyle Activities Provider! 0845 456 3233 or www.fitforsport.co.uk

Regent Learning – Run a Holiday School from Monday-Friday, 8.45am-3.30pm for 3-16 year olds.

020 8966 9900 www.regentlearning.com

Holidaytime Holiday Club – Offer a fun, active and safe time for all children aged between 3 and 12 years at Quainton Hall School in Harrow. 07903 126486 www.activetime.co.uk

Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts – From 26-30 Aug Sharpe Academy are running a Musical Theatre Summer School at Watersmeet in Rickmansworth. There is a session for 3-5 year olds daily at 1.30am-12.30pm, and for 6-18 year olds at 10am-4pm each day.

01923 711023 www.sharpeacademy.co.uk

Kiddikicks Daily classes and summer multi-sports camps for children aged from 18 months up to age 7 years. Class duration from 45 minutes up to 2 hours. Hyde Park and St John’s Wood.

0207 937 7965/ 0845 602 8276 www.kiddikicks.co.uk Leaders Are Readers Their Summer School is attended by children from all over the world and early booking is advised. 29 July – 16 August at North London Collegiate School, and 12-30 August at Merchant Taylor’s School. 01992 651300 www.leadersarereaders.co.uk Little Kickers Courses running throughout the summer. www.littlekickers.co.uk Mini Picassos Fab, fun and creative! Holiday workshops from 12-3pm weekdays for children aged from 4-13 years.

07903 638817 www.minipicassos.co.uk Mother Nature Science Holiday Camps: for 5-12yr olds. There are two amazing science weeks to choose from this Summer: Science Explorer! & Scientist Factory! weekdays 22nd July-23rd August 2013. www.mnature.co.uk 020 8863 8832 Northwood Community Arts Group Summer Circus Skills from 29 July – 2 August, 10.30am-3.30pm. for 6-12 year olds. 01628 675800 northwoodarts@artreach.biz NumberWorks‘nWords 12th August to 30th August (3weeks) Morning Sessions 9am - 12pm Afternoon Sessions 1pm - 4pm Maths and English tuition classes target identified needs to improve achievement levels. www.numberworks.co.uk 0208 868 7672 Raviv Practice London Prevent regression in the school holidaysKeep your child’s brain stimulated and improve academic performance during the holidays. Contact Usha Patel - Raviv Practice London - on 07766 837 616

Stagecoach Summer Workshops performing arts holiday workshops for 4-7 year olds (half day) and 6-18 years (full day). Stagecoach Harrow 29 July-2 August. 0203 504 0100; Stagecoach Sudbury Hill& North Wembley 12-16 August 01923 248294. www.stagecoach.co.uk/holidayworkshops Supercamps Summer multi-activity day camps for children aged 4-16, 40 + activities. 25-31/5 and 22/7-23/8 at Heathfield School Beaulieu Drive, Pinner HA5 1NB 22/7 – 30/8 at Royal Masonic School for Girls, Rickmansworth, WD3 4HF 01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk The Dan Tien – Join in with a week of singing, dancing, making, sticking and loads of fun games too. Suitable for ages 4-12, from 29 July – 2 August at Harebreaks Community Hub in Watford.

01923 441043 www.thedantien.co.uk The Performing Arts Club in Ruislip – Hold a four day workshop during the summer holidays with a theme. Sessions run from 10am-3pm at Ruislip Methodist Church.

01438 831281 www.active-creative.com Type IT! – Fast track holiday courses suitable for boys and girls aged 10+ and other family members such as parents and grandparents.

020 8864 0325 www.typeitforkids.co.uk Willows Farm Village – Activity Day Camps Weekdays from 22nd July – 30th August except bank holidays. except bank holidays. Willows Activity Day Camps are OFSTED registered.

01908 209217 www.willowsfarmvillage.co.uk.

The Windmill Studios – 5 day Creative & Performing Arts Workshop for 7-12 year olds during the summer holidays.

01895 624755 www.thewindmillstudio.com

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Summer

What’s On

Summer listings for all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event in the next What’s On listing (Sept 2014) send your entry by Mon 4 August 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.

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

July

Throughout Jul & Aug – Horrible Histories @ Warwick Castle (CV34) Why not take a trip to Warwick Castle this summer and visit their Horrible Histories exhibition.

See the foulest and funniest moments from history brought to life through five different areas of the Castle, each with live actors telling stories and interactive games such as Toilet Tipping in the Measly Middle Ages and exploding barrels with the Slimy Stuarts. Venture through over one thousand years of the great and the good – and often grimy and gruesome history as you are taken on a rotten journey of action packed games and adventure with nasty nuggets and foul facts aplenty - history has never been so horrible! www.warwick-castle.com

Warwick Castle

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Throughout Jul & Aug - London Transport Museum is going undercover with the help of junior codemakers and breakers during the special Going Undercover family fun activities. Interactive family storytelling and creative make-and-take craft workshops, as well as Be Safe Week. The events are free to children and adult tickets last a whole year for unlimited daytime admission to all the Museum galleries and special exhibition.

Weeks 1 and 4: The adventures of Constance the Clippie. 28 July to 1 August and 18 to 22 August. Listen to Constance the ‘conductorette’ as she teaches you her clever tricks for catching thieves and cheats who try to short-change her and dodge paying their fares under the cover of darkness. Suitable for families with children aged 3 to 7. Make a stash of clay coins before stitching yourself a secret pouch in which to hide them. Suitable for families with children aged 4 to 12.

Week 3: Be Safe Week 11 to 15 August. This week involves a Going Undercover circuit where young visitors can dash between different transport safety scenarios, solving clues and learning from the professionals. Get your fingerprints taken and learn how the police gather evidence, become a bike safety Detective and identify different particles of objects. Each young person that completes the circuit will go into a prize draw.

Weeks 2 and 5: Pigeon Post 4 to 8 August and 25 to 29 August. Percy and Penny Pigeons are in love, but Percy is in Belgium and Penny is in France, kept apart by their code-carrying wartime missions – can you help them reunite? Suitable for families with children aged ages 3 to 7. Make your own secret messages and take them home with your specially made carrier pigeon. Suitable for families with children aged 6 to 12 www.ltmuseum.co.uk

NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

Throughout Jul & Aug - Butterfly World Events (AL2) Head along to Butterfly World this summer and join in with the many events they have planned. These include butterfly arts and crafts activities, Popdance workshops, storytelling and Dizzy Wizzy’s Amazing Butterfly Show. There is also a Family Fun day planned on Mon 25 Aug. Please take a look at their website or phone for further details on these events.

01727 869203 www.butterflyworldproject.com

Throughout Jul & Aug - Summer Reading Challenge 2014 (various) Head along to your local library during the summer holidays and take part in the 2014 Summer Reading Challenge. This year the theme is Mythical Maze, which challenges children aged four to eleven to find their way around a labyrinth that introduces them to fantastical creatures from the world of legend and mythology, collecting stickers of each character along the way. Every time children finish a book they get stickers and rewards and there’s a certificate for everyone who finishes. summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/

Families Summer What’s Summer On Throughout Jul & Aug – The Great Railway Treasure Hunt 2014 (various) Steaming on into 2014, Peter’s Railway Books is delighted to announce the return of this fun adventure for families across the UK, inspiring youngsters to learn about and enjoy our engineering heritage. The aim is to encourage visits to as many heritage railways and museums as possible during the summer, answering questions along the way. This free competition is for children under the age of 14 and each participating Railway or Museum has a Treasure Hunt quiz sheet with 10 questions for kids to answer when they visit. www.petersrailway.com/treasure-hunt.aspx

Butterfly World

Throughout Aug - Shows for Families (WD17) Watford Colosseum have a whole host of shows suitable for families in August. From 14-16 Aug see ‘Scooby-Doo! The Mystery of the Pyramid’, where Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Velma and Daphne must solve the mystery of Pharaoh Hatchepsout’s Pyramid. On 20 Aug ‘Milkshake Live!’ arrives starring two Milkshake presenters who will take you on a fun milkshake adventure. ‘Angelina Ballerina: The Mousical Live On Stage’ will be showing from 21-22 Aug, where everyone’s favourite little star pirouettes onto the stage in this sparkling musical packed full of singing and dancing. Finally, 24 Aug sees ‘The Sooty Show’, where joining the nations favourite bear will be Sweep , Soo and Sooty’s TV Partner Richard Cadell -who will be attempting to keep Sooty from getting up to mischief!

0845 474100 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Throughout Jul & Aug - Summer Trail (HP4) Family event at Ashridge Estate, suitable for all ages. Daily from 10am to 4pm.

01442 851227 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge Wed 2 Jul – Sun 7 Sep – The Tiger Who Came to Tea (W1D) Adapted and directed by David Wood OBE, Judith Kerr’s ferociously popular tale is a great musical play and if you’ve never had a tiger arrive for tea, then this loveable production at the Lyric Theatre will show the whole family how to behave if one rings the doorbell. When Sophie and her mummy welcome the hungry Tiger to tea, he proceeds to eat all the sandwiches, buns, biscuits and more. And even manages to drink all the water in the tap! The perfect slice of teatime mayhem with sing-a-long songs, oodles of magic and interactive fun for children ages 3 plus and their families.

0844 412 4661 http://www.nimaxtheatres.com/

Thu 3 Jul - BBC Antiques Roadshow (WD3) BBC One’s ever popular Sunday evening programme Antiques Roadshow will be filming for its 37th series in the grounds of Chenies Manor, near Amersham. Doors open 9.30am-4.30pm, entry is free.

01494 762888 bbc.co.uk/antiquesroadshow Fri 4 – Sat 5 Jul – Grease (WD3) Join Sharpe Academy at Watersmeet Theatre as they present this hit musical.

01923 711063 www.Watersmeet.co.uk Sat 5 Jul - Bushey Parish Summer Fair (WD23) The Fair will be held at St. James’s Church and will mark the beginning of this year’s Bushey Festival. Entertainment will include the N. London Military Wives Choir and Watford Eclipse Majorettes.

Many local schools and organisations will be taking part. Hot food, BBQ, licenced bar and other refreshments will be available and the many stalls will cater for every age. Children’s games, raffles, tombola and much more. Go and enjoy a family day of fun!

11.00am-4.00pm.

07787 538232 m.golding@hotmail.co.uk www.busheyparish.org/ Sat 5 Jul - Junior School Open Morning & Fete (WD6) Open Morning for the Junior School at Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls, and St Catherine Parents’ Guild Summer Fete.

10.30am - 1.00pm 020 8266 2300 www.habsgirls.org.uk/ Sat 5 Jul - Active & Creative - The Woodoaks Association Summer Festival (WD3) An event for the whole family to enjoy! Includes sports, theatre, local stalls and sellers, heritage walks, live music, food and drink and open classes. From 12.30-6.30pm at Woodoaks Farm.

07855 039728 evehoward@thewoodoaksassociation.co.uk www. thewoodoaksassociation.com/

continued on page 16 v

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Families SummerSummer What’s On www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk/RegularEvents for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every Monday! continued from page 15

Sat 5 Jul - Northwood Craft Market (HA6) Handson crafts for children at the monthly market while Mums & Dads can browse and buy from the many stalls of beautiful handmade crafts.

Crafts vary at each market. Teas, coffees and delicious homemade cakes are available at the church coffee shop. 10.00am - 2.00pm 01923 840633 www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk/ Sat 5 Jul - Arnett Hills School Fair (WD3) This is always a fun event with stalls, rides, BBQ and other refreshments. Go along and support them on the day or contact Jo Dobson before hand to book a stall for the event. All proceeds go towards the school via the PTA and help to but educational and fun items for the children to use at school. 12.00-3.00pm 07973875361 joseylou@madasafish.com www.arnetthills.herts.sch.uk Sat 5, Sun 6 & Sat 12 Jul - Summer Proms in aid of St Lukes Hospice (HA1) St Luke’s Hospice is proud to present its 4th Summer Proms series of concerts, taking place in the historic Speech Room at Harrow School. All concerts start at 7.30pm but doors open at 6.30 for guests to enjoy a drink on the terrace or in the beautiful War Memorial room. Sat 5 Jul Grimsdyke Opera presents Gilbert and Sullivan, Sun 6 Jul violinist Jack Liebeck with the Haydn Chamber Orchestra and Sat 12 Jul is the Last Night of the Proms with the London Gala Orchestra www.stlukes-hospice.org/summerproms Sat 5 – Sun 20 Jul – Bushey Festival (various) Since 1983, the Bushey Festival has grown to become one of the country’s largest Festivals organised entirely by volunteers. Run during the first fortnight in July, the aim is always to produce a varied programme of events for the local community. To many people, the Festival is the highlight of the Bushey calendar and is a much loved part of Bushey community life. See website for details on the different events taking place. http://www.busheyfestival.org.uk

Love Parks Week

Sun 6 Jul - Golden Anniversary Celebration Day (WD3) Celebrate their 50th Birthday at Maple Cross School from 12-5pm. There will be a petting zoo, circus workshops, Punch & Judy, Live Band, School reunion and exhibition, Children’s Rides, BBQ and Hog Roast and much, much more. www.maplecross.herts.sch.uk/ Sat 12 Jul - Harefield Infants School & Nursery Summer Fayre (UB9) Lots of fun for all the family, Refreshments and home make cakes and lots more. 11am-2pm. www.harefieldinfants.co.uk/ Sat 12 Jul - Summer Concert (WD17) South Oxhey Choir summer concert at St John’s Church in Watford. Phone or visit website to buy tickets, or alternatively they are available at Oxhey Wood School on Tuesday evenings.

01923 236174 www.seetickets.com/

Sun 13 Jul - Vintage Affair (HA6) A Vintage Affair consisting of Morning Affair from 10am-2pm suitable for all the family, entry £1. Opens with the Stardust Big Band playing and tea rooms, gift stalls, classic cars, Double Vision Duo playing, Jimmy Jam Tots Bear with balloons, massages.Afternoon Affair is ticket only £15 each with a full afternoon tea and a glass of bubbly and musical entertainment suitable for adults. www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk/events

Sat 12 Jul - Ruislip Lions Club Open Air Event Treasure Island (HA4) An open air event will be held in the Manor Farm Courtyard - Treasure Island. Gates will open prior to the performance to give people the opportunity to enjoy a picnic. Gates will open at 5.00pm for picnics and the performance will commence at 6.30pm. The café will be open before the performance and at the interval.

01895 277643 www.ticketweb.co.uk/event/treasure-islandtickets/114505

Thu 17 – Sat 19 Jul - Les Miserables School Edition (WD7) Originally adapted from Victor Hugo’s timeless novel, Les Misérables School Edition introduces a new generation to the grand and inspirational story that has touched the hearts of millions. Set amid the political and social turmoil of early 19th century France, the show includes a majestic score with favourites such as On my Own, Do you Hear the People Sing?, Castle on a Cloud and Master of the House. At the Radlett Centre.

01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Sat 12 Jul – Hayes Carnival (UB3) This year’s Carnival will celebrate the diverse cultures and communities of Hayes. Enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of these vibrant cultures as they unite to create a spectacular carnival. Be dazzled by the parade, soak up the atmosphere in the park and sample a wide range of activities.

The main stage will showcase the best musical talent Hayes has to offer alongside a range of world music and classic tribute acts, while elsewhere you will find a food court, a funfair, a dance arena, sports activities, the traditional community stalls and much more. At Barra Hall Park from 1.30-5.30pm. Parade from Pump Lane at 12.30pm. http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/hayescarnival

Sat 19 Jul - The Big Family Sports Day (WD17) In association with Everyone Active and Watford Footbll Club. Celebrate a summer of sport with school sports day style fun for all the family at The Parade in Watford. www.watford.gov.uk/ccm/content/calendar/

Sat 12 – Sun 13 Jul - The Big Dance (WD17) Once Upon a Time in Watford in association with dancedigital and Watford Palace Theatre. Dancers take over The Parade in a breath taking event for all the family. The final will be at 8pm on 13 July. www.watford.gov.uk/ccm/content/calendar/ Sun 13 Jul - Baby and Children’s Market (NW6) De-clutter your nearly new high quality baby and children’s items,

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sell it in their markets and get 100% profit on market day. Lots of stalls selling excellent quality kid’s items from birth to 6 years. Plus a small selection of unique businesses in the baby & children’s industry showcasing and selling their products and services all under one roof!

All the events are indoors at Salusbury Primary School. Pushchairs welcome. 10.30am-1.30pm www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk/

NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

Sat 19 Jul - Family Fun Day @ Harrow Arts Centre (HA5) Go along for a fun day of free art, dance and music activities for the whole family! Everyone will have the opportunity to be creative, develop new skills and enjoy the challenge of doing something entirely different. 11am-4pm 020 8416 8989 www.harrowarts.com/family/400?event=family-fundaySat 19 Jul – Southlands LIVE (UB7) Go along to THE music festival this summer, in the borough of Hillingdon. There will be 9 top quality music acts playing a variety of original music, as well as some popular covers, in the idyllic settings of the Southlands Arts Centre. http://www.southlandsarts.co.uk/southlandslive

Families Summer What’s Summer On

Sat 19 Jul – Sun 31 Aug - Summer Spectacular @ Willows farm Village (AL4) Make sure you find your way out from the A-maize-ing Maze in time to take part in the popular traditional sports day races. There’s all day family entertainment with a packed programme of activities and events.

0870 129 9718 www.willowsfarmvillage.com/ Sun 20 Jul - Abbots Langley Orchestra Summer Afternoon Concert (WD5) This Summer afternoon concert conducted by Scott Wilson and led by Marion Garrett features Irish violinist Ciaran McCabe. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear this up and coming soloist in the wonderful historic setting of St Lawrence Church, complete with refreshments including Pimms. 3.00pm. www.abbotslangleyorchestra.co.uk/ Sat 20 Jul - Family Open Day @ Headstone Manor (HA2) A day of family friendly activities including a chance to see finds from the ongoing excavations, go on a site tour, experience medieval re-enactments, take part in hands-on activities, see highlights from the Museum of London’s medieval collections, and learn about the skeletons of medieval Londoners. 11am-4pm. www.harrow.gov.uk/info/200070/museums_and_galleries/312/harrow_museum_buildings_ headstone_manor Sat 20 Jul - Middlesex Grand Family Fete (WD3) An enjoyable day out for all the family with over 60 stalls and events, Lindy Hop Dancers, Pirate Show, Tug o War Challenge, Bouncy Castles, Fair Ground Rides, Reptiles and Exotic Animals, Live Music, Dog Show, Ferret Racing, Classic Cars and Bikes, Beer Tent, Many Foodstalls...and much much more!! All in the beautiful setting of the Royal Masonic School for Girls which there are regular tours of throughout the day. 11am-4.30pm www.mgff.co.uk Sun 20 Jul – Rotary Club of Uxbridge Autoshow (UB8) One of the largest car shows in the South East of England. 2000 cars from Club and individual entries, trade stands, catering, funfair, arena events and more. All proceeds go to Charity. Open from 10am to 5pm at the Middlesex Showground, Park Road. www.uxbridgeautoshow.com Mon 21 Jul – Fri 1 Aug – Perform’s Summer Holiday Course – Peter Pan (Various) Peform Drama School’s 5 day course will take 4-8 year olds on a magical trip to Neverland with Peter Pan, Wendy, John and Michael as they help rescue Tinkerbell from the dastardly Captain Hook. The course is £149 (with a 25% discount for siblings and reductions for groups). Book by 1st August and receive 10% off when you quote FAMI220814. (Dates vary according to venue, please phone or check website for further details).

0845 400 1275 enquiries@perform.org. uk www.perform.org.uk Thu 24 Jul - Captain Calamity Mega Party (WD7) Following the ‘sell out’ popularity of Captain Calamity’s Mega Party in January; he’s back again with another hour of marvellous magic, brilliant balloonery, amazing action-dances, great games and bubbletastic bubbles. Go and join the award winning Captain Calamity in Chocolate Button Bay at The Radlett Centre for another laughter filled, interactive show. www.radlettcentre.co.uk Thu 24 - Sat 26 Jul - Mega Makers Holiday Club (HA3) Drama, Bible Stories, Songs, Craft and loads of Fun. At St Michael and All Angels Church, Harrow, from 10am-12noon for 5-14 year olds. All places must be pre booked. Register Sunday 13th or 20th July at 11.30am at St Michael’s or telephone.

020 8861 1383 Thurs 24 July – Sun 10 August What The Lady Bird Heard (SW1X) Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. But they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all: the Ladybird has a plan of her own! Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ award-winning picture book bursts onto stage with plenty of colour and verve. Ages 2+, tickets from £14.50.

020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com

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Families SummerSummer What’s On continued from page 15

Tue 29 Jul - Wildchild Outdoor Summer Adventure Days - Wild Survivor Adventure Day (WD4) Learn how outdoor explorers survive in the wild. Take part in adventurous wilderness and bushcraft activities, including shelter-building, fire-lighting, tracking and navigation games, carving simple wooden objects and water filtration. Suitable for 8-12 years, at Phasels Wood Activity Centre. www.wildchildactivities.com

August Mon 4 – Fri 8 Aug - Summer Circus Skills (HA6) Northwood Community Arts turns big top for a week! Albert and Friends Instant Circus will lead the week long circus skills course at St Johns Church, Northwood for 60 participants aged 6 – 12 years.

They will have the opportunity to try out stilt walking, Rolla-Bolla, juggling, diablo tricks, giant ball trotting, unicycle and tight-wire walking. On the last day family members are invited to come and watch participants perform all the new skills learned during the week. Daily from 10.30am-3.30pm.

01628 675800, northwoodarts@artreach.biz www. northwoodcommunityarts.co.uk Fri 15 – Sun 17 Aug – Lollibop (AL9) A fantastic day out for the children! A children’s festival with favourites from Cbeebies, Nick Jr and Milkshake, plus hundreds of free activities and workshops. http://www.lollibopfestival.co.uk/ Sun 17 Aug - Medieval Festival (HA4) The popular medieval festival returns to the Manor Farm Site, with the usual mix of authentic re-enactments, thrilling battles and all manner of medieval curiosities. The headline attraction this year will be the return of the Mounted Jousts on Pinn Meadow. Elsewhere you will find...A Hog Roast, A Medieval Encampment, Displays of Hand to Hand Combat, Medieval Dancing and Medieval Music. The Duck Pond Artisan market will also be onsite, offering the usual range of ethical local craft products and mouthwatering food. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/medfest

London Transport Museum

Tue 26 Aug - The Gruffalo (WD7) Join Mouse on an adventurous journey through the deep, dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation of the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Mouse can scare hungry animals away with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo, but what happens when he comes face to face with the very creature he imagined? Songs, laughs and scary fun … Let your imagination run wild! At The Radlett Centre. www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Sun 24 – Mon 25 Aug - Harrow in LEAF’s 10th Horticultural Show and Family Fun Day (HA2) Horticultural & Craft Show, with vegetable, fruit, flower, cookery and home preserves, home-made wine and beer, and arts and crafts sections. Beekeepers’ marquee, with information on bees and beekeeping, and sections for honey, mead and beeswax.

Refreshments, petting zoo, archery, entertainment for all the family, information on allotments and wildlife, stalls selling crafts, plants, food, and much more. At Headstone Manor from 12-5pm. www.annualshow.harrowinleaf.org.uk

Sat 30 Aug - Herts Pride 2014 (WD18) This year Hertfordshire Pride Society presents Herts Pride 2014 - We Are Family!

The event will be FREE in Cassiobury Park in Watford from 11am to 9pm. Just like last year there will be loads of fantastic entertainment on the day with different stage around the park. Plus loads of market stalls to browse and enjoy. www.hertspride.co.uk/

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk/Whats-On for a detailed list of What’s On this summer

It’s updated everyday!

LIKE us on Facebook to get after-press updates on local events and activities! www.facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon

Paediatric First Aid Courses Sat 19 July & Sat 30 August Pinner/Harrow Area Accepted for Voluntary OFSTED Registration.

Training can be extended for Full Registration at no further charge.

Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85

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

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NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

Summer

Elisa’s Tutorial School Edgware from 21/2 years to 16 years of age.

Give your child the best start.

26 years experience. Ex St. Michaels’ Grammar School teacher. BA. PGCE Expert tuition in English, Maths and reasoning for 4 plus, 7 plus, 11 plus, 13 plus and also GCSE. Pre-school reading, maths and writing classes taught through music, art, toys and stories, computer lessons also.

020 8958 1192 07956 868119 Online tutoring available at

www.childrensstories.net

Families NW London Magazine is distributed to over 30,000 families.

To advertise YOUR BUSINESS with us, call: 01923 237 004 email: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

19

Local Clubs and Classes Directory ADULT CLASSES

First Aid

Fused Glass Workshops (HA8) Design and create your glass piece in their Studio in Edgware (platter, wall clock, coasters, mirror, picture frame...). Open to adults and teenagers. For dates and availability, (0773 3321094 8 eva@crescendo-art.co.uk www.crescendo-art.co.uk NCT – Yoga for Pregnancy (Various) Classes focus on gentle postures, breathing techniques, positions for labour and relaxations. Designed so you can attend throughout your pregnancy and can be adapted to individual needs. 8 www.nct.org.uk

ACTIVITY CENTRES

LANGUAGE AND BABY 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 8 www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk Baby Sensory (Harrow, Watford & Hemel Hempstead) The sessions are specifically aimed at babies from birth to 13 months and each week is different.

All activities are accompanied by developmental information so you understand the value to your baby’s learning experience. It also helps you develop fun ideas for home use and much more.

Classes held weekly in North-West London areas.

(Lina (Harrow): 07809549103 8northharrow@ babysensory.co.uk (Clare (Watford, HH): 07779 234228 8 hemel@babysensory.co.uk www.babysensory.com La Jolie Ronde (HA5) Fun Spanish classes at Cannon Lane Methodist Church. Tues 4:15pm 8 consueloroso@gmail.com ( 07949894212.

Baby Massage & Yoga Baby Massage (HA) Learn to massage your baby.

Baby Massage has huge benefits for both mum and baby including development of the brain and immune system and help with colic, sleep, bonding and attachment. This is a wonderful 5 week course accredited by the Royal College of Midwives. ( Niki 07956 388 748 8 nikicotsen@hotmail.com Positiv-Life Fitness (various) Specialise in Small group Personal training Pregnancy Pilates, Mum & Baby Yoga & Postnatal Pilates & Baby Massage, for those in & near Eastcote Ruislip, Pinner, Northwood & Uxbridge. info@positivlifefitness.com ( 07974 062 973 8 www.facebook.com/ positivlifefitness Twitter @PositivLifeFit

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: ( Angelina Melwani 07956 948776, 020 8950 0888. 8 www.singandsign.com TinyTalk (Ruislip, Ickenham and Rickmansworth) Baby Signing Classes up to 20 months. Toddler Talking Classes 20 months to 4 years. Thursday: St Giles Hall, Ickenham: 10am Toddlers, 11.30am Babies.

Friday: Methodist church, Ruislip: 10am Babies, 11.15am Toddlers, 1pm Babies.£5.50 per hour (paid 6 weeks upfront) ( Louisa Felton 07879 604 967 8 louisaf@tinytalk.co.uk www.tinytalk.co.uk/louisaf

MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course.

Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration.

Certificate valid for 3 yrs. ( Margaret 07814 191 395 8 mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk

Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide range of activities available from 6mths to 12yrs. ( 020 8954 5759 8 kidzzone@aspire.org. uk. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP Gambado Watford (WD25) Giant play-frame, dodgems, climbing wall, and parties. ( 01923 892140 8 www.gambado.com Parents Paradise (WD23) Soft play centre for all ages up to 11 with a large play frame, separate baby and toddler area, go-kart track, shooting gallery, party rooms and café. Offers different party themes; Paradise Play, Go Kart King, Forever My Bear Party and Arty Pottery Party. Parents Paradise aims to take away all the stress from a kid’s party. ( 01923 248 747 8 www.parentsparadise.eu Partyman World of Play - Wembley (HA0) A magical place of multi-level play structures, air cannons, comfy seating for mums and dads to relax. Indoor playcentre and fabadousa party venue. ( 0208 904 9044 8 vwww.partymanworld.co.uk The Windmill Studio (HA4) The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting venue which hosts many activities for ALL ages from babies to adults. ( 01895 624755 8 www.thewindmillstudio.com

MUSIC & MOVEMENT Active in Music (HA5) Active in Music is a music school for children aged 5+, combining individual and group learning to give a fully rounded approach to learning an instrument. Piano, violin and guitar are available to learn. Please see website for further details and call to arrange a time to see the classes and the school. ( 020 3504 1000 8 www.activeinmusic.com Jiggle Gym (various) Physical soft-play classes for under 3s in Borehamwood, Edgware/Mill Hill and Finchley/Hendon. Children are challenged by a different set of obstacle courses to climb, crawl, walk, and jump through. Classes also combine music and movement activities, sensory developmental activities, and parachute play! Jiggle Gym also specialises in parties and hire. ( 07817323010 8 andrea@jigglegym.co.uk www.jigglegym.co.uk Jo Jingles (Various) Interactive music and movement classes for children from 3 months to 5 years. Watford, Croxley Green, Abbots Langley, Bushey, Bricket Wood and Radlett. ( 01923 445221 8 jojingleswatford@gmail.com www.jojingles.co.uk/watfordarea Little Notes (HA1) Music Teachers’ Awards for Excellence Finalist 2014. Pre-school music classes run exclusively by professional musicians. Real music, real instruments, really fun! Classes for children from 0 to 5 years. Please see website for more details and to book a Free Taster Session. ( 020 8426 4114 8 www.littlenotes.org Mini Maniacs (Various) Interactive stay and play dropin session for Parent with babies (6m+) and preschool toddlers. Different activities each week. Free tea, biscuits & juice! ( 01923 840 690 8 info@mini-maniacs.com www.mini-maniacs.com

Directory editor: Anna Blackshaw

Monkey Music (Various) Founded in 1993, Monkey Music is widely recognised as the UK’s premium provider of music classes for babies and children aged 3 months – rising 5 years. Their unique four-stage teaching curriculum was written by classically trained musicians, and introduces music to very young children in a way they easily understand and enjoy.

Parents across the UK have voted Monkey Music as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity.”

(01895 674587 (Uxbridge, Harrow, Eastcote) 8 www.monkeymusic.com The Sound Cube (WD17) Grab a mic and unleash your inner popstar! Go solo, or party with your friends, and sing your favourite songs just like your pop idols.

Sing, Dance, Record and receive a FREE full-colour personalised *DVD of your performance! (*Party sessions only) Suitable for 7 years +.

(01923 222654 8www.thesoundcube.co.uk The West London School of Tabla (HA2) Learn rhythm and improvisation with classical Indian Percussion.

Syllabus aimed at 4-11 years with assessments and examinations. (020 8864 6364 8 www.wlstabla.co.uk

SPORTS AND EXERCISE Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 year 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 18months to 3 years.

Perfect for active little ones who love playing with balls and more! Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Call 08452 26 26 94 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!

(08452 26 26 94 8 www.enjoy-a-ball.com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com Fit For Sport (Various) ‘The UK’s leading healthy lifestyle activities provider’ 3-12 yrs. (0845 456 3233 8 www.fitforsport.co.uk Kiddikicks (NW6) the Early Years Sports Specialists.

Classes cater for 18 months up to age 7 years for full timetable and to book see 8 www.kiddikicks.co.uk (020 7937 7965 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 8 jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk. Ruislip, Northwood/ Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford (0208 123 9346 8 jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley (0208 422 0676 8 niro@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children. We cover all sports. All students are taught in small groups with children of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years ( an hour and a half.) Main Academy 6-16 years (3 hours).

All students are taught in small groups with children of similiar age and ability. (Previously known as SportsCoach.) Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth ( 01923255099 8 sportskids@outlook.com www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk

White Crane Karate School (HA8) For children aged 4-11. Classes introduce children to the discipline of karate in a fun and friendly way. Karate teaches children self-discipline and develops confidence.

Classes currently held in Edgware Friday evenings, East Finchley Saturday morning and in Stanmore from September. (Sheena 0787 550 1674 8 whitecraneedgware34@hotmail.co.uk www.karatewhitecrane.co.uk Facebook: Children’s Karate Classes–Edgware & Finchley.

Swimmimg Aqua Style (WD23/HA6) teaches children, babies and adults to swim without aids in small groups, or One to One. Good facilities and plenty of parking. They run Intensive ‘Fast Track’ Courses during School Holidays and weekly ‘Term Time’ courses.

8 www.aquaswim.org (07925954144.

Aqua Vie (WD23, WD5) Small classes based on the Alexander Technique. Babies from 6 weeks.

(07525 657 9878 8 office@aqua-vie.com www.aqua-vie.com Aweswim (various) Aweswim offers courses for people of all ages and abilities, ranging from parent and baby groups through to adults.

8 www.aweswim.co.uk ( 01923 537070 Little Fishes ((WD23) Swimming lessons in Bushey from 4 months-9yrs. Using a hydrotherapy pool – perfect for babies and young children learning to swim. Family orientated swim school teaching through play and having fun. We are a very successful school running classes all over North London & Hertfordshire.” (Debbie 01707 276734 8 www.littlefishesswimclub.co.uk 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 Childrens Activities 07794078452 Swimming Nature (various) For babies (3 months3yrs), Swimming Nature for Children (3-15years) Weekly lessons in wonderful family orientated clubs.

Classes are tailored to the child’s ability and they follow the Swimming Nature progressive scheme that builds strong and competent swimmers. They don’t use floats or swimming aids and they only teach the correct strokes. (08445 040506 8 www.swimmingnature.com Swimkidz Watford Ltd (WD4, HA1, HA9) Structured, progressive and fun swimming lessons for babies, toddlers and children.(07545523196 8 georgie@swimkidz.co.uk www.swimkidz.co.uk

THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA examinations to advanced level. (07974 750 224 8 www.beverleydance.co.uk.

JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Classes available for everyone from 2.5 years – adults, male and female that include a creative explosion of styles in dance, drama and singing. (01895 624755 8 www.jam2000.co.uk

To be included in our LOCAL Clubs and Classes Directory contact Anna Blackshaw – Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance • Ballet classes for boys & girls aged 3-16 • Royal Academy of Dance examinations Results – Distinction - Merit • Established 12 years

• Successful places at Royal Ballet School, Tring Park, Central School of Ballet & London Junior Ballet • Numerous cups/medallists – British Federation of Festivals Classes are held in the Stanmore and Harrow Weald area Suzanne Van Niekerk (RAD Qualified Teacher)

Tel: 020 8950 2457

www.vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

“Develop poise, technique and expression through dance”

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NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

Local Clubs and Classes Directory Perform Drama (Various) Together with a team of experienced theatre professionals, the children will combine live original music, inspirational dance and quick witted improvisation and colourful costumes into a performance at the end of the term. Perform sessions are specially designed to encourage creativity, confidence and communication skills as well as being a kaleidoscope of fun!

(0845 400 1275 8 www.perform.org.uk Perform PLUS (NW11) is a new type of children’s drama school. They use a unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. In Hampstead Garden Suburb will be on Saturdays Hampstead GS Free Church on Northway at 9.30 am and 11.15 am. All children are invited to a Free Trial Session. (0845 400 1275 8 www.perform.org.uk Harrow Perform PLUS (HA1) are delighted to announce that they have a new venue opening in Jan 2014 for 7-12 year olds. Fridays 4.15pm - 5..45pm at St Peter’s hall, Sumner Road, HA14BX. They would love to give every Reader at £30 discount off a block of 10 sessions in January 2014. Please quote Families offer.

(07984808622 8 Lucybonnar@perform.org.uk Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Sharpe Academy is a performance based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Stanmore where children aged 3-21 attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions. ( 01923 437693 8 www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines or 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 8 www.stagecoach.co.uk

Dance Chantraine Dance of Expression (NW6) Classes for all ages covering all aspects of dance - rhythm, technique, creativity, choreography - for the development of the whole person. Friendly, noncompetitive environment. All abilities welcomed. ( 020 7435 4247 8 www.chantrainedance.co.uk Dinky Dancers classes are a fantastic & original mixture of dance, creative movement, P.E. skills & musical activities. Their classes include warm-up, character dances (such as Peppa Pig & Bob the Builder!), action songs, percussion instruments, P.E. equipment (hoops, ribbons, balls, bean bags, feathers & parachutes) & creative movement activities based on half-termly themes. Written by experts & based on the Early years’ Foundation Stage, go and find out why OFSTED rate them as ‘Outstanding’! Their classes are not only designed to to help improve physical skills such as hand-eye co-ordination & balance but help develop skills vital for education such as listening, following instructions, turn taking & concentration. ( 01923 239424 / 0208 207 2109 Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge. Offer classes for ages 2 through to adults. Ballet (RAD), Tap (ISTD), Contemporary, Hip Hop, Street Dance, Break Dancing, Street Cheer, Pole Fitness, Gymnastics, Free Running and Children’s Parties. Classes range from beginners to advanced/competitive levels. ( 01895 251224 8 www.futunityuk.com.

Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) Exciting, Energetic and popular dance classes that teach a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip-Hop and Kathak.

Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults, you will learn from professional teachers and all dance levels welcome. Come and try a class.

(020 8423 9543/07944 457 984 8 www.kspark.co.uk Lorna Clark School of Dance (Various) Established for over 40 years, training students from 3-18 yrs to acquire Poise, Confidence and a love of Dance in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Classical Greek and National.

All classes taught by fully qualified teachers. 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. Many pupils have gone on to perform and to train as teachers. Weekly Jazz and Drama classes are held and the school participates in Festivals and produces a Bi Annual show. All classes held in South Harrow/Eastcote. Book a free No Obligation Lesson with this advert, ( 0208 8662105 or 01923 285380.

8 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 8 www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

ARTS AND CRAFTS After-School Art Classes For Kids in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed-media. Mon–Thurs and Sat for Reception through GCSE. One-to-one tuition for all ages, including portfolio-building for University applicants. (Lisa 020 8954 2897 8 myartclub@yahoo.co.uk Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mondays 4.30-5.30 and Saturdays 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. All materials provided. Qualified teachers. ( 07946 055 422 8 info@mysistersandme.co.uk JAMtots (HA4) Creative arts session Includes homemade cooking, sticking, making, colouring, model making, painting and more. (01895 624755 8 thewindmillstudio.com Makes ’n’ Bakes Fun, educational baking classes with arts & crafts for 2.5 to 5 year olds in Stanmore.

Term time and holiday classes held in the comfort of my home. Maximum of 6 children per class. One to one 4+ and 5+ assessments and tuition also offered (Montessori trained). (Karen on 07887-984401 8 wilkin@afrormosia.com.

Mini Picassos (NW10) Offer exciting after school art courses for children aged 4-13 years. Toddler Picassos - weekdays at 10am & Tues 2.45-3.45pm: Painting, water play, collage, play dough and songs. Ages 15 mnths–3 years. Adults evening Life drawing classes.

Get creative with a Mini Picassos Arty Birthday Party for children aged 2-10 years and Summer Holiday workshops too! (07903 638 817 8 www.minipicassos.co.uk info@minipicassos.co.uk Stitch Club (HA5) Sewing club and workshops from 8yrs, teens and adults. After school, weekend and home-educated groups, holiday and adult workshops. 8 sam@stitch-london.co.uk www.stitch-London.co.uk

The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) offers pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Offer group and one-to-one hands on courses. ( 0208 204 1906 8 www.veggiekitchen.co.uk

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB 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 8864 0325.

8 www.clickit-kids.co.uk. wendy@clickit-kids.co.uk.

Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware. Programmes for children from 2.516 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 8 www.childrensstories.net 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 find out about their free workshops on the 15th April and to book a free trial session!

8 www.explorelearning.co.uk.

First Class Learning (Various) Structured yet flexible programme, designed for children studying the UK National Curriculum. Tailored to a child’s learning needs & style. Find out more about this structured approach to learning, by contacting one of your local Centre managers. 8 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Fleet Tutors (Various) Private home tutoring for Maths and English; 33 years’ experience. ( 020 8580 3911 8 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk Hatch End 11+ (various) Provide courses to fully prepare children for the 11+ and Independent School Examinations for Year 4, and Year 5 students. We have successfully prepared hundreds of children to enter schools of their choice. The lessons are carefully constructed to fully meet the requirements for the exams. We cover Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, Maths, Mental Arithmetic, Creative Writing, Grammar and Comprehension. The small class sizes mean the students’ progress is closely monitored and an open dialogue between teacher, parent and pupil gives each student the best chance for achieving their potential. 8 www.hatchend11plus.co.uk 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. Open Monday- Friday 3pm-6pm ( Nicole 07794078452 8 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 8 ushapatel.raviv@ gmail.com www.integratedbrain.co.uk

Jaderberg Krais Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL. ( 020 3488 0754 8 www.jaderbergkrais.co.uk Leaders are Readers (HA8) Award winning reading programme helping children from as young as 3 years to read fluently, often to a standard three to four years above their peers reading age. ( 01992 651 300 8 www.leadersarereaders.co.uk Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-oflesson homework support. ( 0844 840 8400 8 www.mathscool.com The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An independent service covering a range of children’s communication difficulties. ( 01923 824 074 8 www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) After school 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. Summer School classes available. 8 www.numberworksnwords.co.uk Play and Learn (WD23) Children aged 3-16 years.

They provide a formula that works to inspire and encourage learning with the added benefit of play.

Each session includes a snack and drink, a 50-minute lesson and an hour’s play. ( 01923 248747 8 play.learn@parentsparadise.eu www.parentsparadise.eu/play-and-learn The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior Schools (NW6) - 3.30pm to 6pm term time.

Play Schemes available February 2014, Easter 2014, Summer 2014 and October 2014. ( 0207 407 6744 for more information. 8 admin@theplayshelter.co.uk www.theplayshelter.co.uk 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 8 info@ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist) Regent Learning (HA2) Harrow based learning club for 5-16 years enhancing their understanding of English, Maths, Science and ICT. ( 020 8966 9900 8 www.regentlearning.com Stanmore Tutor CRB checked. Preparation for 7+ and 11+ Grammar/Independent entrance exams.

(020 3538 2437 Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA5) Learn to touch type! Specifically designed courses for children from age 8-18. The Type IT! course follows the National Literacy Strategy and so also helps with literacy skills including spelling and word patterns.

Highly recommended for children with dyslexia.

Classes held at Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult classes also available. ( 020 8864 0325. 8 www.typeitforkids.co.uk. wendy@ typeitforkids.co.uk.

U C MAS (HA2, HA3, WD18, UB4) A successful Abacus Mental Arithmetic training programme have been teaching hundreds of children in the UK since 2005, giving them a solid arithmetic foundation by applying the multiple intelligence of the human brain in learning mental arithmetic from the age of 4 with the help of the wonder tool Abacus which not only inculcates a love towards maths for children but also enhances the child’s ability to listen, focus and think in pictures in a play way method without any stress or repetition. Enrol now to give your child a lifetime skill and discover the genius within them. ( 0208 907 8009 8 www.ucmas.uk.com

NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

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Mummy on the Edge

I

n my previous life I worked in Marketing for Clarins. This was ideal for me because I really knew it was the best plant-based skincare on the market. I was very good at my job which consisted of copywriting (thinking up lesser-used synonyms for “radiant” and “flawless”); planning and buying national advertising (negotiating impossibly fantastic deals with magazines); print buying and proof-reading (I once pulped thousands of promotional invitations that I had signed off which stated “Receive a free lipstick lipstick…” whoops); ordering staff uniforms (producing a complex algorithm predicting backsidegrowth trends); overseeing the customer loyalty scheme (never once plugging my friends’ names and addresses into the database so that they received free products directly to their home) and other Really Important Stuff.

I gave up my job (causing much wailing from my sisters and mother) after I had Midi-Me because at that time there was no obligation on employers to provide a part-time work option. I freelanced for a bit and then decided to start teaching Sing and Sign because the video (TAPE back then!) had worked so well for us and I knew it would work for others. (See, there is a theme here: Successfully doing things that I believe in - it’s why I never lasted selling advertising for Rectum Radio.) After I left my job, there began an official period of mourning.

Dark times, dear reader. My beauty routine changed from Clarins: Gentle Foaming Cleanser, Yellow Toner for Normal to Dry Skin, followed

by Multi-Active Day Cream and Night Cream to Pampers: Baby Wipes.

Having enjoyed a dramatic career change myself, I always find it fascinating nosing into the careers of the many parents that come to my classes. Most recently, I have met Deepa who holds down a high powered job in finance, whilst launching bloomandbeyond.com, whose most interesting products to me are these “Shrinkx” belt-things that mould you back into shape post-partum, when your bones are still malleable, your back in need of strong support, and your muscles in need of squashing back together. I have heard of cultures in South East Asia and South America using ancient-style wraps successfully for the same purpose.

Twelve and a half years ago, I had an emergency C-section and after perusing the Bloom and Beyond website I discovered that the name for the physiological legacy I am left with is “The C-shelf”. It is surely too late for me to invest in the “Shrinx Belly” or the “C-Panty”, and to be honest I just tuck my C-shelf into my highwaisted Agent Provocateurs and forget about it. But I have a plan for my future which happily lets Midi-Me off the hook, too. Y’know how wigmakers buy hair from long-tressed Indian ladies?

I’m going to sell my C-Shelf to Donatella and she will use it to make a handbag that she will gift to Angelina Jolie (she would totally carry it - vials of blood hanging around her neck and all that) for PR purposes.

Picture it: Angelina wearing Angelina.

In exchange, (and in order to avoid a huge inheritance tax bill for Maxi-Me,) Donatella will give me something money cannot buy (unless you are a Kardashian or Real Housewife

COMPETITIONS Prizes for the littlies…

Enjoy the sunshine safely this summer with the new Instant Sundome from outdoor expert Coleman. Featuring the brand’s innovative ‘instant’ technology, the Sundome is quick and easy to erect in seconds and once pitched, provides protection from harmful UV rays and a generous sheltered area for your family to relax. Find out more at www. coleman.eu. RRP is £79.99.

H 1 Coleman Instant Sundome to win

More from the edge of Ragdale Hall at mynotesfromtheedge.blogspot.com.

Twitter @appleina Angelina runs Sing and Sign award-winning baby signing classes in Harrow, Bushey and Rickmansworth. www.singandsign.com.

Enter at www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Prizes for the older kids…

Super Awesome are giving one lucky winner the chance to win a year’s subscription to the MEGA Box of Awesome or Box of OMG! Box of Awesome is the mystery box sensation taking YouTube by storm! Launched in early 2013 Box of Awesome is a FREE box filled with awesome items, targeted at kids aged 6-10 and 11-14 years old. The MEGA Box is the largest box, crammed with even more awesome items – past inserts have included Bear Grylls, Match Attax and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

PLUS, the Box of OMG is the pinker, girlier box, with #TotallyOMG books, movies, music and fashion included! Find out more about Box of Awesome and Box of OMG, and how to win a FREE box every 2 months, here: www.

BoxOfAwesome.tv/ www.BoxOfOMG.tv

H 6 Mega Boxes to win

of Beverly Hills or similar): a lifelong place in the world’s first Versace Care Home (Weekly complimentary Rhassoul Mud treatments to combat saggy skin; A coupé of franciacorta with your nightly Xanax; Adonis-like men serving Locatelli on Wheels; Swarovski-encrusted zimmer frame; gold logo-embossed loo-roll...) In 50 years, the popular sibilant tongue twister will thus become “She sells C-shelf on the surgeon’s saw” In the meantime though, I must take better care of myself. My beauty routine no longer includes baby wipes. And this week, while Midi-Me is off with her year group to Bude in Cornwall for a week (abseling, highroping, swimming in a freezing sea pool, unable to contact me), will I be pining for her and wondering if she’s alright? Erm... Yeah... A bit.

But mostly I will be rocking with delight as I check in for an achingly glorious Special Offer Two (-TWO!) Night Taster Break, at Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa, pinnacle of spa experience in the UK. A place I oft wrote about but never stayed at, in my Neolithic, pre-C-shelf period.

Win great prizes for the whole family!

WIN a Year’s Subscription to Box of Awesome or Box of OMG!

WIN a Coleman Instant Sundome

Angelina Melwani on career changes, work/belly balance and a plan for her future.

Prizes for the whole family…

WIN A Family Pass WIN A Family Ticket to What to Butterfly World the Ladybird Heard Visit Butterfly World in Chiswell Green for lots of family fun. Learn about the lifecycle of the butterfly in the Tropical Butterfly House where you can experience over 500 beauties at any one time. Visit Ant World, and wonder at the busy leafcutter ants taking their leaves back to the nest via the overhead ropes.

In our Insect Study Centre, get ‘hands on’ with creepy crawlies during regular Insect Handling sessions. Children will love to let off steam in the Natural Play area whilst parents enjoy a wander through the 18 designer gardens and wildflower meadows, and take a break at the Nectar House Café.

Our Children’s Holiday Activity Programme has something exciting for all ages, including craft sessions and environmental workshops.

See the Butterfly World website for further information. Open 10-5 every day. 01727 869203 www.butterflyworldproject.com

H 2 family tickets (2 adults, 2 children) to win

Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. But they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all: The Ladybird has a plan of her own! Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog as they take on the villains and win, in this brand new stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Lydia Monks’ colourful farmyard adventure. With live instrumental music, original songs, rhyming and repetition, this production is the perfect family treat and the ideal introduction to theatre for pre and primary school children aged 3+.

Full tour listings see below or visit www. whattheladybirdheardlive.co.uk

H 1 family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) to win

H For full competitions terms and conditions and to enter log on to H

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk and click on competitions.

22

NORTHWEST (LONDON) JULY/AUGUST 2014

Classified education A N D classes

Classified: Health & beauty, childcare, tuition, holidays, services for the home, e.g. cleaning, plumbing or electrical work.

To advertise your business or service in classified, please call 01923 237 004 or email Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Upcoming Issue: September 2014

Clubs and Classes Deadline: Monday 4 August

PA R T IE S

Stanmore Tutor CRB checked

Prep for 7+ and 11+ Grammar/Ind Exams Exam workshops

New! now offered

Call 020 3538 2437

SPEECH & LANGUAGE THERAPIST An independent service covering a range of Children’s communication difficulties.

Contact THE NORTHWOOD PRACTICE MRCSLT, HPC

Call 01923 824074

To advertise your business with us call or email;

01923 237 004 Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

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COMPETITION TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. Only one entrant from same e-mail address or household will be accepted. 2. Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering. 3. Entries must be received by the closing date and proof of sending cannot be taken as proof of receipt. 4. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries. 5. All decisions of Families Magazine are final and no correspondence will be entered into. 6. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize. 7. Winners’ details will be supplied to the Promoter of the competition. 8.

Families Magazine is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition. 9. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms.

Where is Families North West?

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.

Distributed to over 30,000 families!

CONTACT US AT: Families North West, Box 2378, Watford, WD18 1RF Tel: 01923 237 004 Email: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Families North West London Upcoming Issues September 2014

October 2014

Clubs and Classes

Education and Schools

Families North West is designed by Lisa Bibby and printed by Warners. Copyright Families North West Magazine 2014. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families North West is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.