Families Upon Thames Issue 131 Jul/Aug 2019 by Families Magazine

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RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career. If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or selfemployed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle

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Issue 131 July/August 2019

Summer Issue featuring summer days out and holiday workshops

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contents

4 5

News Parenting • Interpreting common todler behaviours

8 9 11

Family Camping • How to maximise your enjoyment

• Kingston • Richmond • Brentford • Isleworth • Spelthorne • North Surrey

from a summer holiday oudoors

Families® Upon Thames • Issue 131

Parenting • News • Dealing with Divorce • Teaching children about money

12-13 Clubs and classes listing 14-15 Summer clubs and classes 16-19 Days out 20

...endless ideas for families of young children in

Clubs and classes news

22-23 Whats on To advertise in this magazine contact: MIMA WALIA, Editor SARAH HODGSON, Managing Editor DESIGN & PRINT, Ridgeway Press

m: 07792 006546 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Upon Thames

To advertise in this magazine contact: MIMA WALIA, Editor SARAH HODGSON, Managing Editor DESIGN & PRINT, Ridgeway Press m: 07792 006546 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk

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News...

Help with Apps Celebrate Play on Playday UK!

Government helps parents choose educational apps

Playday is the national day for play in the UK, and will take place this year on Wednesday 7 August. Playday is an annual celebration of children's play with thousands of children and families playing outside at events across the UK. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of children's play and the need for quality play opportunities every day of the year. From small-scale community events to organised in parks and open spaces with thousands of

The Government has announced plans to help parents embrace the beneﬁts of technology for their children. A new advisory panel will assess existing apps and produce tips and guidance for all parents to help them make informed decisions about which to choose for phones or tablets. Announcing the plans, Education Secretary Damian Hinds said: “No parent has all of the answers. Our children are growing up in a constantly changing world and it is hard to keep up.

children taking part, events organised in parks and open spaces, Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them. As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives. You can hold and register your own Playday event or ﬁnd one close to you. www.playday.org.uk

Free childcare so mums can attend smear tests Childcare.co.uk has launched a new initiative to encourage more women to attend a smear test Mothers across the UK are being offered an hour’s free childcare so they can attend a smear test. Childcare.co.uk has launched the initiative to encourage more women to attend a smear test to determine whether they are at risk of cervical cancer. While the test usually takes just five minutes, a free hour of childcare is being offered to allow

for waiting times and travel. In the UK, women are invited by the NHS to get a cervical screening from the age of 25 to 64. However, ﬁgures show the take-up of testing of women is at a 20-year low. Every year in the UK, around 3,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer. In 99.8% of cases cervical cancer is preventable with early treatment.

Childcare UK, which claims to be the largest platform for parents and childcare providers in the UK, provides more information at www.childcare.co.uk/news/free-childcare-for-smear-tests

“Screens can be an easy distraction for children, but harnessing the power of technology to support early communication and development means that we have another tool in our arsenal to help young kids develop those skills.” The government’s plan is to provide reliable information about which educational apps for phones or tablets are the best or most eﬀective. This will help parents choose from the hundreds available on the market.

Encourage holiday reading The 2019 Summer Reading Challenge is on! Children's reading can decline during the summer holidays if they don't have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure. The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday. This year the challenge will focus on the theme ‘Space Chase’ - an out-of-this-world adventure

inspired by the 50th anniversary of the ﬁrst moon landing. Children are challenged to read at least six library books over the school holidays and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way to receiving their challenge certiﬁcate and medal. The Challenge will launch in libraries on Saturday 13 July 2019 in England and Wales.

For competitions, book recommendations and special online badges and rewards, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

4 • Kingston • Richmond • Brentford • Isleworth • Spelthorne • North Surrey - July/August 2019

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Parenting

o you sometimes wonder what goes on your child’s head when they kick up a fuss? Do you often search for exactly the right words to calm them down? In the following extracts from a new book What’s My Child Thinking by Tanith Carey with psychologist Dr Angharad Rudkin, you will find evidence-based strategies to help you respond to two common toddler behaviours: separation anxiety and demanding your phone. ‘Mummy Don’t Go’ Scenario: When you try to drop your child off at the gym crèche for the first time, your toddler clings to you. What she’s thinking: ‘I only want Mummy to look after me.’ What you’re thinking: ‘Why’s she kicking up such a fuss? I will only be forty minutes. I feel so guilty when she begs me not to go.’ Nothing is quite the same as the love and care a parent gives. Toddlers are also only just learning that you continue to exist when you are out of their sight so seeing you leave can be scary for them. How your child reacts will also depend on how sensitive she is to change and whether she’s had sad or happy experiences when you’ve left her to be cared for by others before. So far if she’s mainly been used to being at home with mummy or daddy, the challenge of being in a new environment makes her hold on to you as her security.

What to do: Show faith in your Child’s Carer Your child will take her cues from you. Introduce the nursery worker, smile, ask their name and ask both

Inside your child’s head By Tanith Carey

Interpreting common toddler behaviours - and guiding your response them and your child if there are activities they might like to do together. Use Distraction Help your child shift her focus from her upset feelings outwards. Ask her to engage her curiosity and look around at the new toys she can play with. Point out other children who are already having fun as they will fascinate your child the most. Turn parting into a ritual Saying goodbye will be easier if your farewell is predictable every time. Give your child a hug and two kisses, and tell her what you will do together when you collect her, like going to the park, in order to give her something to look forward to.

As every parent knows, it’s tempting to hand over your phone. It gives you few moments to yourself and may even be a welcome break from some of the repetitive conversation that toddlers have at this age. However, by giving your child your phone you are giving him the message that phones are more interesting than people – and that rather than engage with him you are happy to give him a substitute for your time and attention. If you give in to a tantrum, you will also be sending the message that you will give in if he makes enough of a fuss.

‘Want your phone’

Limit your own phone use Your child is watching you. Keep checking and conversations to a minimum when you are with your child. In this situation, put your

Scenario: While you’re waiting for your lunch in a café, your child says he wants to play with your phone. What he’s thinking: I don’t want to wait and sit still. The bright ﬂashy colours on Daddy’s phone are more interesting. What you’re thinking: ‘At least it will keep him busy until the food comes. If I say no now he may throw a tantrum which would be embarrassing.’

phone out of sight immediately which will mean he will forget about it more quickly. Distract him Come up with a game he loves to play. Ultimately remember that toddlers would always rather have engaged, one-on-one play-time with you than play alone in a onedimensional digital world. Take a longer-term view While a phone may seem to work miracles to calm a fractious child, keep an eye on the bigger picture. It‘s going to be easier if you set clear boundaries now, rather than try to rein back his usage when he’s older.

What to do:

What’s My Child Thinking: Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents by Tanith Carey with Dr Angharad Rudkin looks at how young children think and uses those insights to work out the best ways to help keep them calm and happy in more than 100 everyday situations. (DK, £16.99)

6 • Kingston • Richmond • Brentford • Isleworth • Spelthorne • North Surrey - July/August 2019

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Family Camping

Whys and Hows to maximise your enjoyment of your summer holiday outdoors

ummer is the perfect time for camping. But although a family camping trip can be rewarding, for many parents it is a daunting prospect. So, we asked Andrew Campbell to highlight the undeniably good things about camping – and pass on some expert tips to make your trip even more enjoyable for everyone.

Reasons to Take Your Children Camping Develops a sense of adventure Going camping is fun – even just for one night. A new environment, unfamiliar sights and sounds, other kids to meet and play with, a tent to help put up and sleeping under the stars all make for a adventure. Having a sense of adventure promotes a positive outlook and means life stays full of possibilities. Builds resilience Children rarely move out of their comfort zone these days. Working out where to pitch, helping to put up a tent, ﬁnding the campsite shop and being sent to pick up supplies, dealing with challenges (broken poles, forgotten tent pegs, bad weather) are great ways of building resilience and conﬁdence. Freedom to explore Having the freedom to play, explore and generally behave the way children should is a vital element missing from modern life. Familyfriendly campsites provide a safe, and relatively secure environment for children to roam, giving them a sense of freedom. This freedom, combined with a more natural environment, boosts creativity, with children using their imagination rather than a device to play games and entertain themselves.

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Closer to Nature Developing a love and respect of nature is much easier when children get to spend time outdoors, and camping is an excellent way to immerse them in the natural world. Family Bonding Camping is a great opportunity to create lasting memories for your child – something unexpected always happens! It takes the whole family to make the camp work. Everyone has a role, everyone can pitch in, and therefore everyone is interacting so much more than if you were in a hotel or apartment.

Tips for Camping with Children Conduct a Test Run Try sleeping in a tent in the garden first. Take notes of things you’ll need on a full-blown trip. Rent a Tent Or borrow one. There are a range of companies that hire out camping equipment and deliver it to your door. Many camp sites have ‘ready ‘tents that are already pitched and waiting for you. Don’t Overpack... You don’t need too many clothes. Leave the “just-in-case” items at home and know that you can re-wear things. … Or, Pack Differently Put together an outfit for each day, roll it up with the smallest pieces on the inside (socks, underwear) and then secure each outfit roll with a rubber band. When it’s time to get dressed, pull out a roll and you’re set. Saves having to dig through a bag, plus you’ll know you have enough to wear.

Email: editor@Familiesuponthames.co.uk • Tel: 07792 006546

Pack for all kinds of weather Even if it’s hot during the day, evenings are often cool—so bring an extra layer for night time. Remember rain gear! Unpack and set up camp in daylight Set up the tent first. If you’re planning to cook over a fire, send the kids to gather kindling so you can get it going straightaway. Load up on wipes Bring several packs of baby and antibacterial wipes for those times when you need to clean up the kids but won’t be able to give them a shower. Take toys In the event of poor weather (or boredom), things like puzzles, cards, travel size board games are useful. For outdoors, bring binoculars, magnifying glass, butterfly net, water guns, chalk, bubbles, buckets and shovels. Prepare snacks and meals beforehand Do as much food preparation for the meals and snacks you intend to cook whilst you are at home in a fully equipped kitchen. Freeze food in zip lock bags. Take Glow Sticks Great for seeing your kids at night and for hanging on obstacles that are obvious in the day but dangerous at night, such as tree stumps or tent pegs/ropes. Kids also love them. Ready, packed and set to camp? Enjoy your holiday and all the many benefits it will bring you and your family! Child-friendly campsites and advice on camping at www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

Families Upon Thames • 7

Parenting

Don’t lose stuff! Label your kids’ clothes with Snappy Tags Used by parents all across the UK, Snappy Tag is a ‘one click’ method for securely and quickly labelling multiple garments with your child’s name. You or your children can tag their uniforms quickly using the hand held applicator – push, click, snapped on. The tags are re-usable as they can be removed with the special applicator. You simply buy more backs and re-attach. They are laseretched and guaranteed not to fade or come off in the wash or tumble dryer. About the size of a small button they come in quantities of 25 or 50 in black or white. Snappy Tags work closely with PTAs and schools in the UK and offer a 10% commission scheme to schools who sign up to the scheme. www.snappytags.co.uk

Light living

Stop slips and falls

Aerem candle create a sustainable, naturally-scented home

New safe summer holiday footwear for your children — and you

Aerem means clean air in Latin. The Londonbased Aerem team believes that beautiful home décor should not be at the expense of the environment. This is why they only use two ingredients inside their Coconut Wax candles: 100% coconut wax and 100% essential oils. Absolutely no chemicals are added. Aerem candles oﬀer a cleaner and longer lasting burn than soy candles as they have a higher melting point: burn time is approximately 35 hours (190g) and 40 hours (220g). The wax is renewable and biodegradable and the natural, lead-free wicks are non toxic - they don’t release harmful fumes into our precious air. Each candle is wrapped in recycled tissue paper in a beautiful complimentary soft grey gift box. Made using only recycled materials and plant-based wax the entire product is fully recyclable (including the glassware, packaging and labelling). As coconut wax is a hardened form of coconut oil, you can even use it as a completely natural skin emollient! Their minimalist design is ideal for those who wish to create a fresh scent which is subtle and family friendly.

No more shouting for your kids to stop running around the pool? No more tears when the hot sand or pebbles hurt their feet on the beach? Sounds like bliss! Slipfree shoes are designed to keep children (and adults) safe by helping prevent slips and falls. Made from a light, flexible, quick-drying and breathable fabric, they are the next best thing to bare feet but with the added protection of a firm grip sole. They are super comfortable, easy to swim in and can be used almost anywhere: swimming, surfing, playing on the beach, at the pool or on the waterslide. They come in over 20 fun and colourful designs, including mini-me styles which both children and adults love. Sizes range from infant size 2 to a men’s size 11. Prices are £14.95 for children’s and £18.95 for adults. And what’s extra good – you can wear them all year round year-round: at the swimming pool, at exercise classes, for gymnastics and at home on slippy floors, in the bathroom and garden. Available from stockists nationwide and www.iloveslipfree.co.uk

www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Aerem Email: Aeremlondon@gmail.com

8 • Kingston • Richmond • Brentford • Isleworth • Spelthorne • North Surrey - July/August 2019

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Parenting

Dealing with Divorce Kids Come First helps families deal with divorce and separation

ealing with divorce or sorting out your separation is diﬃcult for everyone involved. And if you have children, navigating your way through this complex journey can prove even more challenging. As you try to resolve all the legal and ﬁnancial implications of your separation it’s easy to lose focus on what’s most important — your children.

Struggling with their own emotions, children are constantly observing your responses and behaviour and depending on you to be strong and resilient — just when you’re finding it hard to function at your best. That’s why it’s so important to find specialist support as early as possible — because the better you cope, the better your kids will too. Kids Come First offers child-focused support and training to suit parents at every stage of separation, with practical guidance on building a better co-parenting relationship and helping you become a more positive parent. Booking a workshop in Hampton or Hammersmith benefits both you and your children.

Visit www.kidscomeﬁrstuk.co.uk or call 0778 949 7275

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Email: editor@Familiesuponthames.co.uk • Tel: 07792 006546

Families Upon Thames • 9

Handwriting Tutor 3 Achieve clear and conﬁdent handwriting 3 Neat handwriting is important in Exams 3 Don't lose marks unnecessarily! Mrs. Cutler: St Margarets, TW1 T: 07521 554188 E: selene.cutler@handwritingsupport.co.uk BA(Hons) Languages - Professional Handwriting Anaiysis/Graphology Member of the National Handwriting Association - DAB checked

11+ Mock 11+Moc 1+M ck k Tests Tests Te t For TIFFIN GRAMMAR SCHOOLS subjects When: Sat 20th July 2019 Sat 17th August 2019

Time: 1.30pm - 4.00pm Time: 9.30am - 11.30am

Where: The Hollyfield School, Surbiton Hill, Kingston KT6 4TU Time: 9.30am – 11.30am Fee: From £25 per paper including detailed feedback.

BOOK K NOW www.mocktestmasters.co.uk ✔ Detailed feedback report Child’s strengths and weaknesses ✔ Access to mock test questions and answers ✔ Over 25,000 pupils have taken our tests ✔

Pots of Wisdom It’s important to teach children about money, says Erik Bohjort PLUS Top Tips to get started

oney. It’s a topic that some of us find difficult to talk about, especially when it comes to discussing personal finances. However, it’s important we are not silent about this topic as studies show that children are likely to grasp money management skills best when they are having fun practising with their parents. Luckily, there are lots of easy ways to get your child started on learning the basics of financial literacy, as well as equipping them with the essential skills such as how to earn, how to save, and most importantly, how to spend responsibly.

Start talking about money Openly communicating with your children about money will encourage them to develop a healthy relationship with it. Consider involving your children in a real-life family budget discussion, allowing them to hear about the impacts that earning, saving, and spending will have on your finances. For starters, have a transparent discussion about the budget you’ve set for a particular family activity that you want to do, and what it means for you to have to save up for it. For example, are you saving up for a family holiday? Will you have to cut down on treats such as eating out in the weeks approaching it? Be clear about the costs and benefits of this savings’ endeavour. This helps your children understand how small savings add up to significant goals. familiesonline.co.uk

Introduce regular Pocket Money Pocket money is another great way to help your child develop financial literacy. Pocket Money lets children be responsible for managing their own money, in a safe environment. It teaches children the essential principles of spending and saving, and the trade-offs between the two. Consider introducing real money to your children from the age of 5 years, starting with a weekly Pocket Money to get them used to receiving money regularly. Then consider transitioning over to a monthly allowance at around 11 so that they learn how to stretch their budget, as they will have to later in life. Spend some, save some Our brains are hardwired to be inherently impulsive. So, encouraging your children to save some of their money for their dream purchases is an excellent way to teach them how to control their impulsivity, and be more sensible in their spending. Gradually, they will start to understand the difference between ‘want’ and ‘need’, which helps to set a precedent for long-term financial wellbeing. Maximise your child’s earning potential Setting rewards for chores is an effective way to teach children where money comes from, and that you have to earn it. Give your child optional chores that they can complete to earn some additional money. For example, perhaps if they empty the dishwasher, they could get 10p on top of their regular allowance.

Email: editor@Familiesuponthames.co.uk • Tel: 07792 006546

Encourage your children to suggest chores too. This is a great way to inspire them to think about their own earning potential. It works even better if they have a savings goal — such as ‘Save for a Scooter’ — so that they can see how earning money moves them closer to their goal. Lose the paper Chores Charts Previously, you might have taught your kids how to manage money using Chores Charts stuck on the fridge and a physical piggy bank, but with cash disappearing from everyday life, it is important that kids learn how to handle digital money from the get-go. Consider using technology to simplify your pocket money and chores management. For example, rather than just handing over weekly pocket money, empower your children to learn the principles of ﬁnancial literacy by saving, earning, and spending through a free pocket money app or online like Go Henry (www.gohenry.com/uk/), where you can have sight of your child’s progress and discuss it as a family. Remember, the earlier you introduce money management skills to your child, the easier and more naturally they will grasp principles that will set them up to be responsible with money in their adult lives. Erik Bohjort is a child psychologist and Head of Research at Gimi (www.gimitheapp.com), a free pocket money app and chores manager

Families Upon Thames • 11

Clubs & Classes ART & CRAFT CERAMICS CAFÉ KEW Ages: All. Children create a unique piece of pottery. Starting with a plain white bisque shape, they paint on their design using ceramic underglazes. Their piece is then ﬁred in the kiln, and ready for collection within 2 to 4 days. Open Tuesday to Sunday, Mondays on Bank Holidays/half terms. In: Kew Contact: Joanna Wronka 020 8332 6661 www.ceramicscafe.com

HAPPY POTTER CERAMICS Ages: 6+. Arts and crafts café for all ages oﬀering pottery painting, clay, T-shirt design, mosaics, foam clay and decopatch. NEW: After School Art Club, plus holiday workshops, baby prints and children’s parties. Adult workshops available also. In: Teddington Contact: Una 020 8973 1468 www.happypotterceramics.co.uk

DANCE JUST IMAGINE BALLET Ages: All. Just Imagine Ballet is an inclusive ballet and dance school for all ages and abilities. Just Imagine values creativity and expression and focuses on the healing and nurturing aspects of the creative arts. Children can progress through four separate ballet programmes created to be in line with their physical, emotional and social development and aligned with the National Curriculum key stages. Glimmer (0-18 months), Twinkle (18 months-5 years), Sparkle (6-10 years), Dazzle (11+ years). Plus: Tap, Contemporary, Street, Jazz, Character Dance, Classical RAD Ballet, Boys Only Ballet, Family Dance/Homeschool Classes, Holliday Camps, Birthday Parties, Adult, Silver Swans Dance (60+ years) and SHINE (SEN Dance classes, workshops and one2one sessions with a Dance Therapist). In: Richmond, East Twickenham, St Margarets, Teddington, East Sheen, Kew Contact: The Fairy Godmother or Miss Jessica, Principal 07813 741189 info@justimagineballet.com www.facebook.com/JustImagineBalletLondon

MUSIC & DRAMA LITTLE VOICES RICHMOND & TEDDINGTON Ages: 4-13 years. Little Voices teaches Singing and Drama to the highest standard whilst building confidence and promoting children’s personal and social development. The lessons give your child specific individual tuition within small group sizes. This is crucial for helping your child to work within ‘a cast’ and acquire the necessary group skills and individual tuition for achieving success in every area of their life. The elementary Vocal and Dramatic techniques are taught in an exciting yet disciplined way and build your child’s confidence and self-belief whilst promoting good posture, articulation, projection, clarity and diction. Lessons work towards a yearly performance as well as highly accredited LAMDA examinations. In: Richmond and Teddington, Every Tuesday and Thursday Contact: Ashlea Pearson 020 8088 0113 www.littlevoices.org.uk/locations/londonrichmond www.littlevoices.org.uk/locations/teddington

STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS Ages: 4-18. Fun, educational and conﬁdenceboosting classes in singing, dancing and drama, which cater for the varying needs of young performers, whether reserved or budding talents. Classes focus on the Performing Arts and having fun in a structured safe environment, whilst learning life skills to prepare them for the stage of life. Two-week trial available. In: Chertsey, Cobham, Hinchley Wood, New Malden, Richmond, Staines, and Weybridge Contact: Chertsey: 0772 517 6102 Cobham: 020 3723 9702 Hinchley Wood: 01372 238238 New Malden: 020 8540 7791 Richmond: 020 8332 6741 Staines: 07802 800633 Weybridge: 0808 208 5134 www.stagecoach.co.uk

STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS TWICKENHAM / TEDDINGTON Ages: 4-18 Thursdays: Ages 4-6 4.15-5.45pm Waldegrave School Thursdays: Ages 6-18 4.30-7.30pm Waldegrave School Fridays: Ages 4-6 4.15-5.45pm Waldegrave School Fridays: Ages 6-18 4.30-7.30pm Waldegrave School Fridays: ages 14+ 4.30-7.30pm Waldegrave Saturdays: Ages 4-6 9-10.30am/9.3011am/10.45am-12.15pm/ 11.15am-12.45pm St Catherine’s School Saturdays: Ages 4-6 9-10.30am/ 9.15-10.45am/ 10.45am-12.15pm St Marys & St Peters School, Teddington Saturdays: Age 6-18 10-1 and 2.30-5.30pm St Marys & St Peters School Teddington Saturdays: Ages 6-18 10am-1pm and 2.305.30pm St Catherines School Saturdays: Ages 15+ 3.30-6.30pm St Catherines School Part time Performing Arts classes for children ages 4-18 oﬀering exciting West End performance opportunities, and learning to sing, dance and act all under one roof. A dynamic and exciting extracurricular school club oﬀering Creative Courage for Life! Price: Ages 4-6 £168 (90 Minutes); Ages 6+ £336 (3-hour session) Contact: Sarah & Will Chitty 07824 999414 0208 979 5276 twickenham@stagecoach.co.uk teddington@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/teddington www.stagecoach.co.uk/ twickenham

STEP ON STAGE Ages: 3-18. Performing Arts – Dance, Drama, Music. Mondays to Fridays: Dance, Drama and Music at The Exchange Arts Centre, 90 London Road, Twickenham (opposite station) – Drama, Dance and Singing Classes, LAMDA, Trinity and ISTD. Saturdays: Dance and Musical Theatre at Hampton Hill Theatre, United Reform Church, Hampton Hill and St James Church, Hampton Hill – Musical Theatre, Ballet, Tap, LAMDA, ISTD and Trinity exams. Oliver the Musical For Ages: 5-14 Dates and Times: August 5th-August 10th 2019 Location: Hampton Hill Theatre, Hampton Hill Middlesex Put on a show in a week with workshops in Drama, Dance and Musical Theatre. Price: £199, discounts available for siblings and multiple bookings

12 • Kingston • Richmond • Brentford • Isleworth • Spelthorne • North Surrey - July/August 2019

The Greatest Show in Town Ages: 5-14 Dates and Times: July 29th-August 3rd In: Hampton Hill Theatre, Hampton Hill Middlesex Put on a show in a week with workshops in Drama, Dance and Musical Theatre. Price: £199, discounts available for siblings and multiple bookings The Greatest Circus in Town Ages: 3-7 Dates and Times: July 30thAugust 1st In: Hampton Hill Theatre, Hampton Hill Middlesex 3 mornings of drama, dance, music and arts and crafts for 3-7 year olds exploring the Big Top! Price: £25 per day discounts available for siblings and multiple bookings The Lion King Ages: 3-7 Dates and Times: August 6th-8th 2019 In: Hampton Hill Theatre, Hampton Hill Middlesex 3 mornings of drama, dance, music and arts and crafts for 3-7 year olds exploring jungles in The Lion King. Price: £25 per day discounts available for siblings and multiple bookings Acting Summer School - Play in A Week Ages: 9-16 Dates and Times: July 29thAugust 3rd In: Hampton Hill Theatre, Hampton Hill Middlesex Put on a show in a week with workshops in Acting, Movement, Physical Theatre, Masks, Stage Combat, devising and directing. Price: £199, discounts available for siblings and multiple bookings Contact: Emma Tinniswood 07973 900196 info@steponstageacademy.co.uk www.steponstageacademy.co.uk

SPORT COERVER COACHING PERFORMANCE ACADEMY Ages: 7-16. The Performance Academy is the UK’s premier football development programme for boys and girls aged 7 to 16 and oﬀers unrivalled level of support, both on and oﬀ the training pitch. Book a FREE Trial Session today! In: Hounslow, Kingston Contact: Michael Cook 020 3544 2284 westlondon@coerver.co.uk www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon

FOOTIE TOTS Ages: Footie Tots (2.5-5), Footie Wizards (5-13) An introduction to the world of ﬁtness and football with lots of goal scoring and fun along the way! Classes encourage the children to lead an active and healthy lifestyle from a young age. All classes indoors. In: Hampton, Twickenham, Teddington, Thames Ditton, Hinchley Wood, Molesey Contact: Andy Scates 07931 707720/020 8979 1497 andy@footie-tots.co.uk www.footie-tots.co.uk

SWIMMING TEAM SWIM SCHOOL Ages: 2.5yrs+ Swimming lessons for all abilities and ages. Fun and engaging classes for nonswimmers, as well as taxing for stroke improvers. Children enjoy the whole pool, not just sectioned areas. NEW: Water Polo for kids – Stage 4 swimmers and above. Contact the school to register interest. Small groups, great results. Plus club swims available three evenings a week. Call or email to arrange a trial lesson. In: Cobham Contact: Paul Furness 07915510720 info@teamswimschool.com www.teamswimschool.com

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TUITION HANDWRITING WITH MRS CUTLER Ages: 4 to 11+ Achieve neat, cursive, joined-up handwriting and boost your child’s self-confidence with one-to-one handwriting lessons. Half term group courses are available for pre-school and older children. Pre-school children will learn to build fine motor skills to improve strength and dexterity in their hands and fingers. The courses for older children will focus on learning how to hold a pencil correctly, letter formation, spacing and cursive handwriting. In: Twickenham Contact: Selene Cutler 07521 554 188 selene.cutler@handwritingsupport.co.uk

MRS JONES EDUCATION – 11 PLUS TUITION Ages: 8 to 11 Mrs Jones Education aims to enable your child to reach their full potential and successfully gain a place at a good senior school where they will achieve and be happy. Learning is structured to maintain your child’s enthusiasm and imagination and to allow them to enjoy learning. In Year 4 children attend 11 Plus Foundation before moving onto 11 Plus Preparation in Year 5. 11 Plus Mock Exams are also available for both age groups. In: Kingston, Surbiton, Wimbledon, South Wimbledon/Sutton, Hampton, Richmond, Twickenham, Chiswick, Ealing, Hounslow and Isleworth Contact: 020 8390 6076 www.11plustuition.co.uk

Just Imagine DANCE

Ballet For ALL Glimmer~Twinkle~Sparkle~Dazzle (6-17 mnths) (18 mnths-5 years) (5-10 years)

(11+ years)

BOOK A FREE TASTER CLASS Richmond - East Sheen Kew - St Margarets Twickenham - Teddington

info@justimagineballet.com

Summer

Performing Arts Camp • The Ultimate ‘The Greatest Showman’ inspired camp • Four days of singing, drama and dancing • Working towards a final performance • Build confidence & make new friends • For boys and girls aged 4 - 13 years

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Get Christs School, Richmond, TW10 6HW £10 OFF Monday 29th July - Thursday 1st August Before 12th 9.30am - 3.30pm each day July £180.00 per child sibling discount available For information and to apply contact

0208 088 0114 SWL@littlevoices.org.uk www.littlevoices.org.uk *You must apply for a place for your child. All Little Voices qualified Tutors are fully enhanced CRB checked.

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Families Upon Thames • 13

Summer Clubs Fun with Step On Stage Join Step on Stage this summer for one of their exciting musical theatre or acting summer schools at the Hampton Hill Theatre. They have lots on oﬀer for 3 to 18 year olds, from one day courses to a whole week on stage. Drama, Music, Dance, Musical Theatre,

Props making, Stage Combat, Special Eﬀects Make Up, Playwriting and drumming – there’s something to suit everyone! Courses run from July 29th – August 10th and 1- and 3-day workshops in August at The Exchange in Twickenham. For more information contact info@steponstageacademy.co.uk or call 07973 900196.

Summer Camp with Performance at Just Imagine Theme: "Under the Sea" Ages: 3-10 years old, boys and girls Dates: Monday-Friday 9 August Times: 10am-1pm daily Venue: Duke Street Church, Richmond Children will delight in an underwater dancing adventure meeting mermaids, tropical ﬁsh, dolphins and seahorses and many more of their favourite sea characters! As well as dancing Just

Imagine also oﬀers art & craft, dress up, drama, music and imaginative storytelling all week! All children will be in a costumed performance on day 5!!! BOOK 1 DAY = £35 plus vat per child, BOOK 3 DAYS = £100 plus vat per child, BOOK 5 DAYS = £170 plus vat per child.

TO BOOK email the Enrolment Fairy info@justimagineballet.com www.facebook.com/JustImagine BalletLondon

Learn to act with Edd Campbell Bird Little Voices summer performing arts camp is hosted by West End performer Edd Campbell Bird, star of Sweeney Todd, Muted and Catch-22, is hosting Little Voices summer performing arts camp. At the summer camp, children aged 4-13 years will be transported through four days of script learning, singing and dancing working towards a ﬁnal performance to showcase to friends and family. Running from 9.30am-3.30pm each day, the camps are a great opportunity for children to build in conﬁdence, learn new skills, makes lots of news friends and most importantly have fun during the holidays!

The Greatest Showman runs from Monday 29 July-Thursday 1 August at Christs School, Richmond, TW10 6HW A Four Day Camp Costs £180 (includes exclusive video of the ﬁnal performance) Get £10 OFF on bookings made before Friday 12th July! Sibling discount available. Email swl@littlevoices.org.uk or call 0208 088 0113. Visit: www.littlevoices.org.uk

“Little Voices camps have been THE half term/summer favourite. My daughter is smitten. It’s her absolute favourite and is requested every holiday. She wholeheartedly loves this creative nugget. What gets me is how these kids, dress up, prepare a stage set, learn a script and loads of songs within only four days. It’s amazing! Thanks Little Voices for setting up and providing us with this creative wonderfulness.”

Summer swim tuition Team Swim School is a private, exclusive swim school in the heart of Surrey, oﬀering outstanding swim tuition in small groups and one-to-ones. They oﬀer a stateof-the-art swim complex, including seating and a café as well as a homework area so all your children’s needs can be met under one roof. Places are limited.

14 • Kingston • Richmond • Brentford • Isleworth • Spelthorne • North Surrey - July/August 2019

To book and register for the summer term please contact Paul on 07915 510720 or email info@teamswimschool.com

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Summer Clubs Happy Potter-ing! Join Happy Potter in Teddington this summer for crafty fun and activities. Drop off the kids (ages 6+) from 10.30am-1.30pm - lunch included! YAY! Activities include weaving rainbows with fluffy clouds, creating decopatch letters, animal origami

and ice cream pompom garlands, designing tote bags, painting Doughnut or Pizza plates and making marbled plant pots and paper ﬂowers and clay pots and pipe cleaner cacti! The makes are endless! www.happypotterceramics.co.uk

Summer Drama Fun with Stagecoach Stagecoach Twickenham & Teddington are delighted to be bringing you two weeks of Summer Drama fun.

older students and the second week will see students heading to the WONDERFUL WEST END for Drama, Dance and Song.

They return to the stunning Normansﬁeld Theatre in Teddington from 29 July-2 August and 5- 9 August to create a show in week! The ﬁrst week sees a fully costumed version of Andrew Lloyd Webber's CATS ABRIDGED for

You do not need to be a Stagecoach student to attend, bring your friends, come and have some fun! Places Limited! Email twickenham@stagecoach.co.uk or call 0208 9795276.

Football skills holiday coures with Coerver for U 7 - U 13 players Coerver® Coaching is “The World’s Number 1 Soccer Skills Teaching Method” and endorsed by some of the games leading clubs, coaches and players. Coerver® Coaching West London is delighted to announce they will be running holiday courses for U7-U13 players at Tiﬃn Girls School, Kingston on Thursday 1st and Friday 2nd August. Each session will be based on the individual 1v1 skills of players such as Mo Salah, Son Hueng-Min & Lionel Messi. Participants will also have the opportunity to use the latest football equipment and win adidas® prizes in Coerver® skill competitions. For ages 7-13, £25 per day. Please book by calling 020 3544 2284 or email westlondon@coerver.co.uk. More details here: www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon.

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Families Upon Thames • 15

What’s On at Wisley Summer events at RHS Garden Wisley Wisley Amazing Maze OPEN NOW Just opened by Wild at Wisley is the amazing strawbale maze. Built from 600 straw bales, it is Wisley’s summer fun play area. Wild at Wisley gets a complete rebuild to include some of the exciting features from the Duchess of Cambridge’s gardens at Chelsea and Hampton Court flower shows this year. About one metre high, young kids will have super fun hiding and trying to find their way through the intricate maze. Fuchsias in the Glasshouse 6 July-18 August. 10am-5.15pm daily. A colourful and exciting display of the Wisley Fuchsia collection featuring a range of forms and sizes. Included in Garden entry, prebook entry for 10% discount. Wisley Live! Saturday Jazz in the Garden 6, 13, 20, 27 July. 1-4pm. Enjoy live jazz every Saturday afternoon from Chi Jazz in the Butterfly Pavilion on Seven Acres. Included in Garden entry, pre-book entry for 10% discount. QUAD open-air cinema 11-13 July. Garden open from 6:30pm. Film starts around 9:45pm Outdoor film screening of Mamma Mia 2 (PG), Bohemian Rhapsody (12A) and The Greatest Showman (PG) for a relaxing summer evening in the garden. Ticket price for member and nonmember: Standard £15.50; Group of 8+ £12.50; Child under 12 £10.50 ;Child under 5 free. To book https://summernightsfilm.co.uk/venue/rhsgardenwisley Bat Walk 17 July. 9-11pm. Discover the secret

world of bats on an evening walk at RHS Garden Wisley organised by The Surrey Bat Group. Adult £9, child £5 for members and non-members. To book please visit the website. Family Fun Garden Adventures with the Very Hungry Caterpillar 20 July-1 September Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Very Hungry Caterpillar, explore lifecycles as well as help children understand where their food comes from and how it grows. Included in Garden entry, prebook entry for 10% discount. Walkies at Wisley 24 July, 21 August and 18 September. RHS Garden Wisley welcomes visitors and their four-legged friends for a special Wednesday evening 'Walkies at Wisley'. Open after hours for a walk around the garden 6-8pm, last entry 7.30pm. Free for RHS Members, Adult £7, Child £5. Two dogs permitted per person. No dogs inside catering outlets. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. Visitors must pick up after their dogs and place in bins provided. Wisley Live! Lates 26 July and 23 August The Garden will be open until 9pm (last entry at 8pm). Experience RHS Garden Wisley after hours with a late evening opening and live music, until 9pm (last entry 8pm). Free for members, special oﬀer for non-members. Wisley Live! Wind in the Willows (outdoor theatre). Sunday 28 July. Performance starts at 5.30pm (1 hour 40 with 15 min interval) Boating with Ratty, a feast with Badger and high jinx

on the open road with that reckless ruﬃan, Mr Toad… Join Mole, Ratty and Badger on their mad-cap adventures in Quantum Theatre’s brand-new adaptation of the Kenneth Grahame classic – a treat for all the family! Tickets: Adult £12; Child £9; Family (2 adults, 2 children) £38; Family (1 adult, 3 children) £35. Please book via the website. Bat Walk 8 August. 8.30-10.30pm Discover the secret world of bats on an evening walk at RHS Garden Wisley organised by The Surrey Bat Group. Adult £9, child £5 for members and non-members. To book please visit the website. Surrey Sculpture Society Trail 17 August-22 September. Follow a trail of contemporary and traditional sculpture featuring more than 100 pieces of work from some of the South East’s ﬁnest established and emerging artists and all set against the beautiful backdrop of RHS Garden Wisley in late summer into early autumn. All sculptures are available to buy. Included in Garden entry, prebook entry for 10% discount.

Storybook Summer at Eden Walk

nce upon a time at Eden Walk there was a glorious celebration of fantastical fiction. This summer, join us on a literary adventure of famous children’s authors — with a different one each week you’re sure to find your favourite! Spellbinding stories, colourful characters and puzzling plots all burst forth from the pages using an assortment of free activities including workshops, storytelling, face-painting, and giveaways (while stocks last)! Be inspired this Summer! Full details and times at www.edenwalkshopping.co.uk

The Gruffalo LIVE ON STAGE Monstrous family fun in the West End this summer Celebrating the 20th birthday of the muchloved picture book The Gruffalo, Tall Stories’ hit musical adaptation, The Gruffalo - LIVE ON STAGE, returns with a UK tour and limited ten-week West End season at The Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue. Expect songs, laughs and monstrous fun for children aged 3 and up and their grownups! Wednesday 3 July-Sunday 8 September at Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 7ES gruffalolive.com Fgruffalolive.com

16 • Kingston • Richmond • Brentford • Isleworth • Spelthorne • North Surrey - July/August 2019

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Fête Accompli! Traditional fun at games at

BROOKLANDS MUSEUM Visiting Brooklands Museum this summer? You will ﬁnd all the fun and games of a traditional village fête on weekdays* throughout August. The focal point will be a lawned area set in front of the iconic Clubhouse with a variety of vintage-inspired games for all ages. Some of the free activities link back to the golden era of the 1920s and ‘30s while others have a familiar modern twist. They include:

• Hopscotch • Hoop and stick • Swing ball • Giant Connect 4 • Giant rope noughts and crosses • Inﬂatable skittles, draughts etc. • Coconut Shy • Quoits Take great ‘selﬁes’ on the winners’ podium (for anyone competing in traditional ‘sports day’ events like the sack and egg and spoon races) and giant deck chairs. Ice cream, lemonade, tea, cakes and other summer treats will be on sale too and of course, the legendary Brooklands Car Rides* will take passengers up the hill climb and along the famous Race Track for a thrilling drive. For a more leisurely ride, hop on board a red double-decker bus for a trip* courtesy of London Bus Museum. In the Brooklands Aircraft Factory and Flight Shed you can clock in and don factory work coats for your ‘Brooklands familiesonline.co.uk

Apprenticeship’. You can see a collection of complete aircraft, sit in the cockpits of the Hawker Hunter and Harrier and walk through the inside of a Wellington Bomber. Workshops and interactives explore skills used over the 80-year history of aircraft manufacture at Brooklands. The Concorde Experience is a half-hour virtual supersonic ‘ﬂight’ on the Brooklands Concorde and runs every day: on weekdays, special Kids’ Tours run twice a day too.The 4D Theatre runs three simulator racing and ﬂying rides each day. The Sunbeam Café is the ideal place for refuelling after all your activities and ten you can pick up a souvenir in the Museum Shop. A perfect day out come rain or shine.

Admission prices (including a Gift Aid donation): £16 (adults), £15 (seniors), £9 (children 5-16 yrs), £42 (family ticket - 2 adults and up to 3 children). Concorde Experience £5 (adults), £3 (children); 4D simulator rides £4 (adults), £2 (children). *Car and Bus rides are subject to weather and operational conditions and require a minimum donation of £1 per passenger. Car Rides will not run on Fridays or Bank Holiday Monday. The main visitor entrance for the Museum is via Mercedes-Benz World, on Brooklands Drive oﬀ Wellington Way between Weybridge and Byﬂeet.

www.brooklandsmuseum.com. More details: Paul Stewart: 01932 857381 ext 249 paulstewart@brooklandsmuseum.com

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Families Upon Thames • 17

Kids and parents love boat trips

ake a seat on deck, sip a cold drink, and enjoy the stunning views from a Turk Launches river cruise. Perfect for relaxing when the kids are running you ragged during the school holidays! Kids love the adventure of being on the water, waving to passers-by, spotting wildlife and cheering on any passing boats or rowers. They are naturally fascinated by the lowering of the chimneys on the larger boats as they pass through the historic bridges and going through Teddington Lock always entertains. Turk Launches run up to 45 boat trips daily between Kingston, Richmond and Hampton Court. During the Summer school holidays, one child goes FREE per full-fare-paying adult on boat trips Monday to Wednesday only (from

9 July to 4 September excludes Monday 26 August) when you quote Families magazine. Bikes and dogs on a lead are welcome on board. The Thames’ towpaths between Richmond, Kingston and Hampton Court are great fun to explore and safe for children. Why not pack a picnic and relax riverside? You can board at: Turks Pier near Hampton Court Bridge, near Kingston Bridge at back of John Lewis and St Helena’s Pier near Richmond Bridge. With plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, plus a helpful crew on hand to assist with pushchairs, the boats are sturdy and the river calm — so no motion sickness, just a happy, family day out! For more information, visit www.turks.co.uk

Princesses, Dragons and Knights – family fun at Hever Castle

Families can enjoy an entertaining programme of events and activities set amidst awardwinning gardens at Hever Castle in Kent.

Kids can experience what it was like to grow up and serve in a royal household in medieval times at Knights & Princesses School (from 24 July).

The Knights of Royal England will once again delight crowds with the annual Jousting Tournament (13 and 14 July; 20 and 21 July; 27 and 28 July; 10 and 11 August; 17 and 18 August; 23-26 August).

NEW: Once Upon a Castle: Help locate a new shield for Flame the Dragon and the Princess’ missing cat (27 and 28 July). https://www.hevercastle.co.uk

18 • Kingston • Richmond • Brentford • Isleworth • Spelthorne • North Surrey - July/August 2019

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New Children’s Garden plus the annual Science Festival: two major new events at The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew make a visit there a summer must-do

A new slant on plants Kew Gardens’ most ambitious design project in recent years is a new, giant Children’s Garden which recently opened its gates to the delight of many local small visitors. Kew’s designers created a space the size of nearly 40 tennis courts (10,000m²) based around the elements which plants need to grow - earth, air, sun and water. Children play and explore at the same time here as they wind their way through a landscape ﬁlled with

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Photo: RBG Kew

What’s new at Kew over 100 mature trees, discovering hidden treasures and adventure and developing their love of nature, plants and the outdoors along the way.

What do they do at Kew? Kew Gardens’ annual Science Festival is an opportunity for families of all ages to get a closer look at what they do at Kew!

This unique space is a hub of fun and adventure which also stimulates imaginations and shows a new slant on how plants grow and why they are so important to us and our world.

The theme this year is 'Rare and Threatened' and Kew’s scientists will come out of their labs and return from far-ﬂung expeditions to bring their scientiﬁc work to life in the gardens. There are pop-up

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science sessions, behind-thescenes tours, hands-on activities, talks and shows. All ages are welcome. The Science Festival 2019 Saturday 20 July and Sunday 21 July from 10am to 5pm. Entrance included free in standard admission to Kew Gardens.

Families Upon Thames • 19

Days Out

Summer must-do Enjoy a fun-ﬁlled family summer at Bocketts Farm

hildren will love the enchanted trail filled with mythical magic. Get creative in Craft Corner and make your own magical wand before having a boogie in the Fairies and Dragons Bubble Disco. Cool off in the brilliant Water Wars Splash Zone, and enjoy launching water-filled balloons at your opponents – great fun for all ages! Pan for

gold in the Last Chance Goldmine before digging and building in the giant sandpit. Other daily activities include pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling, goat milking and the famous pig racing. In addition, meet and feed all of the friendly farm animals in Little Hoppington and the new Animal Discovery Barn.

Travelling down the line Heritage adventures for all the family on the secret railway at Hampton & Kempton Railway and Museum

With two large indoor play barns, trampolines, young drivers’ area, pedal go-karts, treehouse towers and two giant jumping pillows, there's plenty to keep the whole family amused. www.bockettsfarm.co.uk/

Train lovers of all ages love riding in the beautiful restored ‘Devon’ coaches, hauled by ‘Darent’, a 1915 locomotive. And, if you want to know more about the history of water ‘river to tap’ then Kempton Steam Museum, housing the world’s largest working 62ft 1,000-ton pumping engine, is right next door so you can drop by afterwards and explore. Plus... There’s plenty of parking, countryside picnic tables and a play area with static train for the kids to enjoy. Dedicated volunteers make railway events great fun for everyone.

Making tracks for the future

oday we take for granted that our drinking water is safe. But it wasn’t always the case, especially in London during the late 19th century when cholera was rife and the Thames was severely polluted. But what’s this got to do with a local narrow-gauge railway in Feltham, sometimes known as the ‘secret railway’? Quite a lot as it happens! It was partly responsible for helping to clean up London’s

water supply – along with the enormous water pumping engines at Hampton & Kempton Waterworks, now generally known as Kempton Steam Museum. The railway closed in 1945, thanks to great eﬀorts from railway enthusiasts and volunteers, has been partly restored and is now the only heritage operational steam railway loop that provides exciting railway events throughout the summer months for all the family to enjoy.

20 • Kingston • Richmond • Brentford • Isleworth • Spelthorne • North Surrey - July/August 2019

The next step at Hampton & Kempton Railway and Museum is to re-instate the 2.5mile railway down to Hampton, passing by a wetland and a Site of Special Speciﬁc Interest and provide a unique and enhanced railway experience that will attract a mix of enthusiasts, local families and educationalists. The vision also includes building a Visitor and Education Centre that will beneﬁt the whole community. With restoration plans now in place, the railway is now embarking on a £1.8 million fundraising campaign to complete the work.

The next exciting railway event will be Superheroes Day on 14 July. And don’t forget popular Dinosaur Day on 8 September. Prices and opening hours at: www.hamptonkemptonrailway.org.uk www.kemptonsteam.org

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Families Upon Thames â&#x20AC;˘ 21

What’s On - July/August 2019 DAILY KEW EXPLORER LAND TRAIN Kew Gardens, Kew, TW9 3AB Times: Every half hour 10.30am–4.30pm Price: Adults £5; Children £2. Enjoy a guided tour around the Gardens on the Kew Explorer land train and learn about Kew's flora and fauna, historic buildings and vital conservation work. 020 8332 5655 www.kew.org EVERY WED MORNING PARENT & BABY CINEMA AT WATERMANS Watermans Arts Centre, 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Times: 11.30am. Price: £6.50 Screenings of the latest films for parents or carers with babies under one. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk EVERY WED & WEEKEND LOCOMOTIVES IN OPERATION The London Museum of Water and Steam, Green Dragon Lane, Brentford, TW8 0EN Enjoy a steam powered trip around the Museum building on the Museum locomotive. Running every 15 minutes 11am-3:30pm. www.waterandsteam.org.uk EVERY FRI (TERM TIME) & SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SEE SAW DROP-IN SESSIONS Orleans Gallery, Riverside, Twickenham TW1 3DJ Ages: under 5s. Time: 10.30am-12.30pm Price: Child £6 (additional sibling £3) Multi-sensory sessions which include music, play materials, soft play, creative activities, stories and rhyme time in a relaxed informal environment. 020 8831 6000 www.orleanshousegallery.org EVERY SAT MORNING FAMILY CINEMA AT WATERMANS Watermans Arts Centre, 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Time: 11am. Price: £5 per person Your favourite family films old and new, on the big screen. See website for details. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk EVERY SUNDAY SUNDAY STORIES AT KEW Kew Gardens, Kew, TW9 3AB Times: 1pm, 2pm & 3pm. Settle down at Kew Gardens for story time and learn about the fascinating relationship between people and plants. At Davies Exploration House (behind the Temperate House). Price: Included with entry to the Gardens 020 8332 5655 www.kew.org EVERY SUNDAY JUNIOR PARK RUN Osterley Park, Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Ages: 4-14. Time: 9-10am. Enjoy a free timed run around the front lawn as part of the national Junior Parkrun series. 020 8232 5050 www.parkrun.org.uk/osterley-juniors UNTIL 27 OCT CHIHULY: REFLECTIONS ON NATURE Kew Gardens, Kew, TW9 3AB A specially illustrated, colourful and engaging trail will take children and their families around the Gardens, encouraging them to discover the Chihuly artwork. Families can pick up a free trail for the duration of the exhibition from the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art. 020 8332 5655 www.kew.org

4-7 JUL RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE GARDEN FESTIVAL Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court Way, East Molesey KT8 9AU RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival returns with a dazzling summer celebration of glorious gardens, immersive floral displays, unique shopping, gourmet picnicking, celebrity talks and live music. www.rhs.org.uk/hamptoncourt 5 & 19 JUL MUSEUM MONKEYS Chertsey Museum, 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT Price: £5 per child. Time: 9.30-11am Join Charlie the Chimp for singing, stories and crafts Under 5s (must be booked in advance) 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 6 JUL & 3 AUG 15 MINUTES OF FUN Chertsey Museum, 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT Time: 1.30-3.30pm. Free family craft activities. It’s free and you don’t need to book just go along and join in! 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 7 JUL A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM Ham House, Ham Street, Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 7RS Time: 7-9pm. Authentic Shakespeare by the Lord Chamberlain's Men with an allmale cast. Take a picnic and enjoy an evening in the garden this summer. Booking essential. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-houseand-garden 7 JUL & 4 AUG STORYTIME ADVENTURES Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court Way, East Molesey KT8 9AU Times: 11:30am, 12:45pm & 2pm. Duration 20 minutes. Go along to the Queen's Guard Chamber for some family fun and become part of a story! These lively, interactive storytelling sessions are based on well-known children’s books which can be linked to Hampton Court’s magnificent history. www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace 11-13 JUL SUMMER NIGHTS FILM FESTIVAL RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley Lane, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB Watch open-air screenings of Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again (11th), Bohemian Rhapsody (12th) and The Greatest Showman (13th) in the beautiful surroundings of RHS Garden Wisley. www.rhs.org.uk 13 JUL BLACK CHERRY FAIR Chertsey Museum, 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT Time: 11am-4pm. Chertsey's annual town fair. Go along for tea and cake during the town’s annual celebration. Free entry. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 13 JUL TO 26 AUG SUMMER JOUSTING EVENTS Hever Castle, Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG The annual Summer Jousting. Tournaments will begin at Hever Castle on 13 and 14 July. The Knights of Royal England will be entertaining the crowds with exhilarating displays of action, stunts, falls and fights in an authentic arena complete with a Royal Box. Jousting events take place on 13-14, 20- 21, 27-28 July; & 10-11, 17-18, 23-26 August. 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

MORE ONLINE: familiesonline.co.uk 14 JULY SUPERHEROES DAY Kempton Steam Railway, Kempton Park Waterworks, Snakey Lane, Middlesex, TW13 6XH Go along for a ride on a steam train at Kempton Steam Railway, and join in their special Superheroes Day event! www.hamptonkemptonrailway.org.uk 14 JUL SUPERCAR SUNDAY Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 9am - 5pm. Demonstrations on the Mercedes-Benz World track and Test Hill of exotic and exclusive modern and classic cars. A unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy supercars at close quarters. 01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com SAT 20 JUL THE JUNGLE BOOK - OPEN AIR THEATRE Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 7-8.30pm. Join Mowgli's adventures with Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther against the villainous tiger Shere Khan in a lively new adaptation of a children's classic by The Herald Players. Booking essential. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden 20 JUL MINI ACES UNDER 5S CLUB Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 10.30-11.15am & 11.30am-12.15pm Mini Aces club brings the Museum to life through stories, craft, song and dance. With a focus on different objects, stories and exhibits each month, children will discover the treasures in the collection and build self-confidence in a new and exciting environment. Please book in advance. 01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com 20-21 JUL KEW SCIENCE FESTIVAL Kew Gardens, Kew, TW9 3AB Time: 10am-5pm. Go along to Kew for a weekend of wild workshops, hands-on experiments, shows and behind the scenes tours, that will captivate children and adults alike. 020 8332 5655 www.kew.org 20 JUL- 26 AUG (EXC MONDAYS) THEATRE ON KEW: ALICE IN WONDERLAND Kew Gardens, Kew, TW9 3AB Ages 5+ Times: Tue-Sun 10.30am; Fri-Sat 10.30am & 2pm. Join Alice at Kew Gardens on her amazing journey through Wonderland and experience an adventure like no other. Must book in advance. 020 8332 5655 www.kew.org 20 JUL-1 SEP WATER FUN: SUMMER AT THE LONDON MUSEUM OF WATER & STEAM The London Museum of Water and Steam, Green Dragon Lane, Brentford, TW8 0EN Paddle in the Museum’s paddling pools, make a boat to float and take home, find all the boats in the Boats of the World trail and much more. Kids go free all summer! www.waterandsteam.org.uk 20 JUL-28 AUG SIX WEEKS OF SUMMER ADVENTURES Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Price: Admission applies. Seize the

22 • Kingston • Richmond • Brentford • Isleworth • Spelthorne • North Surrey - July/August 2019

summer! Awesome adventure for expert explorers at Claremont throughout the summer holidays. Booking not needed. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden 20 JUL-1 SEP THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SUMMER FUN RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley Lane, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB Take part in The Very Hungry Caterpillar family trail through the garden along with fun activities for all, such as creating a giant collaborative artwork in the Clore Learning Centre, puppet shows, storytelling and music workshops. www.rhs.org.uk 21 JUL & 25 AUG HAVE- A-GO ARCHERY Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Surrey GU4 7RT Ages: 6yrs + Price: Normal admission applies + £2.50 for 6 arrows Time: 11am-3pm . Try your hand at archery with experts from H&H Archery. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park 21 & 28 JUL; 2, 16, 18, 23 & 25 AUG PONY MAGIC Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Surrey GU4 7RT Ages: 2-11 years . Time: 11.30am-2.30pm Price: Normal admission applies + £3 per ride. Pony rides in the garden www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park FROM 24 JUL TO 30 AUG KNIGHTS & PRINCESSES SCHOOL Hever Castle, Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Times: 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm. Throughout the summer holidays your little ones can experience what it was like to grow up and serve in a royal household in medieval times at Knights & Princesses School. Suitable for children ages 7-14 years. 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk 25 JUL, 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 AUG SUMMER FUN Chertsey Museum, 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT Ages: 5-12. Weekly holiday craft activities. 5 year olds must be accompanied by an adult. Advance booking required. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 25 JUL-29 AUG (EVERY THURS) STORYBOOK SUMMER AT EDEN WALK Eden Walk Shopping, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey, KT1 1BL Time: 12-4pm. Every Thursday the shopping centre will be hosting an assortment of activities ranging from workshops, storytelling and face painting to entertain the kids. www.edenwalkshopping.co.uk 26 JUL-1 SEP SUMMER FUN ON THE FARM Bocketts Farm, Young St, Fetcham, KT22 9BS A Magical Trail, Bubble disco, Wand making, Water Wars and Panning for Gold, as well as a full programme of farm activities. 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk 27-28 JUL ONCE UPON A CASTLE Hever Castle, Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Your help is needed locating a new shield and a Princess’ missing cat at Hever Castle this summer holiday. Your little ones will

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MORE ONLINE: familiesonline.co.uk be able to meet Flame the Dragon and go on an adventure through the gardens to ﬁnd a new shield to replace the one he has accidentally burnt. 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk 28 JUL REAL REPTILES Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10.30am-4pm. Price: Free event (admission applies). Tom's Talking reptiles come to Claremont. Go along and meet a special collection of tame reptiles, frogs and minibeasts. Booking not needed. . 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden 29 JUL-30 AUG BROOKLANDS SUMMER FÊTE Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 10am-5pm. Head down to the Museum this summer for all the fun of the fair! Step back in time and re-live the simple days of a traditional village fête with a Brooklands twist. 01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com 30 JUL FAMILY TERRARIUM WORKSHOP RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley Lane, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB Time: 11am-12pm. Create your own family terrarium garden to take home. This practical session provides a demonstration of planting techniques and guidance on suitable plants to choose for this type of project. www.rhs.org.uk 30 JUL-15 AUG SUMMER FREE DROP-IN ACTIVITIES Watermans Arts Centre, 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS There's plenty to do at Watermans this summer without spending a penny! Explore the festival tent where you'll be able to try out musical instruments, delve into the dressing up box or spend some time colouring. In the gallery, ﬁnd a quiet space to chill in our book corner or make bunting on the front terrace. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk

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1 & 8 AUG BAT WALK Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Surrey GU4 7RT Time: 8-10pm. Price: Adult £7, Child £4 Take a twilight walk through the parkland and see how many bats you can hear! Bat detectors will be provided. Booking through Guildford TIC on 01483 444334 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park 3-4 AUG CASTLE CANINES Hever Castle, Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Castle Canines is all about the pooches. Whether you own your own dog or just love them, there is something for everyone, including displays and entertainment. 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk 3-4 AUG THE GRAND PICNIC Ham House, Ham Street, Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 7RS Enchanting magic awaits you inside the bell tent that has magically popped up in the wilderness. Fireside Folktales will be retelling of various myths, legends and folktales through original short plays throughout the day. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-houseand-garden 3-11 AUG HENRY VIII'S SPORTING ACADEMY Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court Way, East Molesey KT8 9AU Take the whole family to Hampton Court Palace this summer and have a go at some exciting Tudor sports. All young competitors will have the chance to win a medal that King Henry VIII himself would be proud to wear. www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace 8-11 AUG THE LUNA CINEMA Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court Way, East Molesey KT8 9AU The Luna Cinema returns to Hampton Court Palace with four of the hottest smash hit movie musicals: A Star is Born, Bohemian Rhapsody, Mammia Mia Here We Go Again! and of course, The Greatest Showman. www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace

July/August 2019 - What’s On 11 AUG BROOKLANDS RELIVED Brookland’s Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 10am-5pm. Capturing the atmosphere of a Brooklands race day, the new-style Brooklands Relived sees us take a step back in time to the heyday of the track. 01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com 11 AUG CRAZY GOLF AT CLAREMONT Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10.30am-4pm Price: Adult £2.50; Child £2.00 Go to Claremont for a great day out for kids and all the family. Play a round of golf in a historic landscape garden. A treat for all. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden 12 AUG SHARP SHOTS PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB Brookland’s Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 10:30am-1pm (ages 7-11). 24:30pm (ages 12-15). If your child loves to take photos of cars and planes, this is the course for them! Photography students will learn how to take a well composed, sharp photograph of all the amazing engines, planes and cars at Brooklands Museum. 01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com 16 & 30 AUG FAMILY MEMBER MINIBEAST HUNT Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court Way, East Molesey KT8 9AU Times: 10am and 12.30pm Become a wildlife explorer at Hampton Court Palace this summer, using the spotter sheet to hunt for ‘mini beasts’ amongst the ﬂowers and vegetables growing in the recreated 18th century Kitchen Garden. www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace 17 AUG BIG CAMP Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Camp out under the stars with family and friends at Claremont Landscape Garden. Experience nature at night with this very

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special family event. Booking essential 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden 18 AUG RISE AND ROAR: QUIET SESSION IN THE MAGIC GARDEN Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court Way, East Molesey KT8 9AU Time: 9-10.30am. A quiet session in The Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace, aimed at those living with or caring for someone with Autism, or those who have any other sensory needs, and their families and carers. www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace 24-26 AUG HAMPTON COURT PALACE FOOD FESTIVAL Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court Way, East Molesey KT8 9AU A summer celebration of food and drink in the iconic East Front Gardens at Hampton Court Palace. There will be plenty of activities on oﬀer to keep children of all ages entertained, from face painting to the circus school, arts and crafts and Dance Stars. www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace 24-26 AUG JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY & JOUSTING Hever Castle, Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Visit Hever Castle’s history event and immerse yourself in diﬀerent periods in history with encampments, re-enactments and stalls as well as more thrills and spills as the brave knights compete in this year’s Jousting Tournament over the bank holiday weekend. 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk 26-27 AUG, OPEN-AIR THEATRE: ALICE IN WONDERLAND Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Surrey GU4 7RT Time: 6-8pm. Price: Adult £12, child £8, family £32 Bring a picnic and a rug, and join Immersion theatre on the lawn at Hatchlands Park for this fantastical largerthan-life musical. Booking through Guildford TIC on 01483 444334 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park

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