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2019 AGa EfD 0–T E E N S kIssue u.oc49 .enMay/June iClnH IoL sDeR EilNim

For families living in the Bromley & Bexley boroughs, Dartford & the

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In this issue...

ISSUE 49: MAY - JUNE 2019

4 Family News Ban idling cars near schools, learning life-saving skills, foster care fortnight 7 Parenting The future of work 8 Health How to sleep better 9 Clubs and classes Holiday camps and more

13 gNaardtioennainlgchwildeerek n's

11 Families It's party time!

Front cover: Deposit Photos

12 Out & About The best of What’s On near you this Spring

Editor: Mima Walia 07792 006546

editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk Design: Kevin Smith Listings Editor: Anna Blackshaw

Fundamental Movement Skills

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Families London-Kent Borders Magazine is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families London-Kent Borders are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London-Kent Borders.

Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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Family News

Ban cars from idling near schools Cars should not be allowed to idle with engines on when parked near schools, a report has proposed.

Public Health England has recommended local authorities “consider a range of interventions” to protect children from the harmful impacts of air pollution.

The report says air pollution was the biggest environmental threat to health in the UK. Air pollution is linked to up to 36,000 premature deaths in the UK each year and more than 2,000 schools and nurseries are near to roads with damaging levels of motor emissions.

This report has been followed by a survey of teachers by YouGov which found that nearly two-thirds would support a ban on cars outside school gates during school drop off and pick up times.

More than half (59%) of the teachers surveyed want the Government to take urgent action to improve air quality near schools.

Parent school holiday fines at record level

WALK TO SCHOOL WEEK 2019

T

housands of children across the UK will celebrate the benefits of walking during national Walk to School Week from 20 to 24 May. Families will be encouraged to walk to school for the whole week to see the big differences that come from small steps: from healthier and happier children, to fewer cars outside the school gates.

Walking to school is an easy way for children to fit more activity into their day whilst also helping them to develop vital road safety skills.

As awareness grows of the dangers of air pollution on our health, walking to school is a positive action people can take to help clean up our air.

Special Walk to School Week classroom packs are available for school pupils containing wallcharts, stickers, diaries and fun walking journey activities.

For more about Walk to School Week, visit livingstreets.org.uk/wtsw

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The number of fines issued to parents in England for taking children on term time holidays has risen to record levels, according to figures from the Department of Education (FfE).

Penalty notices for unauthorised absences rose to 260,000 in 2017-18, an increase of 110,000 compared with the previous year. "Unauthorised family holiday absence" was the most common reason for attendance fines, the DfE said.

In September 2013 the government changed the law so head teachers could only grant a leave of absence to pupils during term time in "exceptional circumstances", such as funerals.

Councils can require parents to pay £60 each per child taken out of school without permission. This rises to £120 if not paid within 21 days, and after 28 days parents can be prosecuted.

Family News

FOSTER CARE FORTNIGHT You Can Make a Difference Foster Care Fortnight™ runs from 13 to 26 May and is the UK's biggest foster carer awareness raising campaign, delivered by leading fostering charity, The Fostering Network.

The campaign showcases the commitment, passion and dedication of foster carers. It demonstrates that 'foster care transforms lives' - not just the lives of the young people who are fostered, but also those of foster carers and their families and friends.

Undoubtedly fostering is challenging but there are tremendous rewards including making a positive difference to a vulnerable child or young person, opportunities to expand skills through training courses, the chance to develop relationships that can last a lifetime and generous financial incentives. The satisfaction and pride in helping a young person with difficulties develop into a rounded individual is the ultimate reward for the majority of foster carers.

For more information, visit www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk/couldyoufoster

LEARNING LIFE-SAVING SKILLS TO BECOME COMPULSORY Beginning in 2020, all state schools in England will be required to teach “life-saving skills” under new plans for health education announced by the Government.

According to draft guidelines released by the Department of Education, primary school children are set to learn basic first aid, as well as steps they can take to protect and support the health and wellbeing of others, including calling emergency services. Children age 5 years will learn basic first aid and children as young as 11 years will be shown CPR at school.

"Learning the basic skills of first aid and techniques like CPR will give young people the confidence to know that they can step in to help someone else in need and in the most extreme cases - it could potentially save a life” announced Education Secretary, Damian Hinds.

More info visit: www.gov.uk/government/news

FIRST CLIMATE CHANGE TEACHERS TO BE TAUGHT IN THE UK

T

eachers across the country have the opportunity to become the first climate change teachers accredited by the UN.

This one of a kind climate change education programme will use innovative learning technology so teachers can learn at home or on the go. The aim is to make sure teachers can help protect the climate by educating their students with the latest data and information on climate change, sustainability, and the green economy.

Education provider YPO sponsors this FREE, global education programme. All you have to do is sign up to Harwood Education’s UN CC: Learn Teacher Academy.

The course, which takes just 8 hours to complete explores the science that supports the existence and effects of Climate Change on children, cities, human health, and gender.

If you work in a school or want to get your child's school involved go to www.unccteacheracademy.com to find out more.

www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2019

5

Wellbeing Education

Maths Anxiety Affecting Young Children Children as young as eight can feel fear, rage and despair as a result of “maths anxiety”, a condition which can severely disrupt their performance.

Researchers at Cambridge University recently surveyed 2,700 primary and secondary students and found that a feeling that maths was more difficult than other subjects often contributed to maths anxiety and loss of confidence.

Researchers say maths anxiety should be treated as a “real concern” because children suffering from it do not fulfil their true maths ability and can find themselves locked in a vicious circle; suffering from anxiety which harms their maths performance, which in turn leads to increased anxiety. Even children who have normal competency levels in maths may avoid it because they feel anxious.

Key triggers for anxiety include poor marks, test pressures, teasing by fellow pupils and a confusing mix of teaching methods, the study found. More info at www.cam.ac.uk/research/news

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The children had read how a magic hat helped a rabbit realise he could do anything if he tried. When the class met the author, that’s what they wore. Do you know what they learnt? It really was true – they could do anything. But the magic doesn’t come from the hat - it is inside them.

Discover how Russell House helps children realise their own magic. Call Anne Irvine on 01959 522352 and arrange a visit.

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Parenting

THE FUTURE OF WORK What Can We Do to Prepare Our Children?

By Gabrielle Nash

It is exciting when your child heads off to school for the first time. What will their first day be like? What will spark their interest? The goal of school is to give your child the necessary tools and skills to enter our grown-up world and ultimately find a job. But what kind of job will that be?

The world of work is undergoing a transformation and future careers will look very different to the those of today. Many of the jobs our children will do don’t currently exist, just as the top ten jobs in 2011 didn’t exist in 2004. As new technologies explode onto the scene, new job opportunities are created. According to Randstad, it is estimated that today’s students will have 10 to 14 jobs before their 38th birthday!

What Type of Jobs?

Just as our parents had never heard of job titles like “social media manager” or “app developer” neither can we as parents fathom what our children might grow up to do.

Redundant is the traditional question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Our children will need to keep an open mind about their career path. Predicting what jobs will be in demand is difficult. They could perhaps include biomedical engineers creating artificial organs; interpreters (a growth industry despite automated translation tools becoming popular); or new healthcare roles looking after our increasing number of over-65s. All of these industries we know have a future.

Naturally our images of the future workplace are dominated by artificial intelligence, robotics and automation.

And whilst it is predicted that the “march of the robots” will remove a quarter of jobs, experts believe that

the future of AI is not to replace humans but to change what humans are capable of.

Interactive Scientific, a British software company, believes that we can teach children key skills like good communication, persistence and problem solving, all before knowing what future technologies will look like. These skills will be vital for our children to navigate an unpredictable jobs market.

What Can You Do to Prepare Your Child?

However good an education your child is receiving, there are very few establishments with a futureproof curriculum, one that can wholly offer the development of skills needed for getting a job in 15 to 20 years’ time.

This is perhaps why more and more emphasis could be placed on vocational education. The Edge Foundation works on developing the future of education. They argue that old certainties like a university degree will no longer guarantee a job.

Edge Chief Executive Alice Barnard believes “We need to support young people to capitalize on their creativity, develop the problemsolving, communication and teamworking skills that employers are crying out for.”

Whilst, as parents, we might think that giving our kids a head start with coding, for example, will equip them with the kind of skills they will need for the future, this is surprisingly not the case. Surprisingly, whilst fostering

a curiosity about technology and digital fluency is paramount, gaining complex skills like coding is not the recipe for success (partly because machines will do that very well); instead it’s more personal or “soft” skills that will help our children excel.

The key things to remember?

1. Interpersonal and communication skills are vital, because the human factor in a job will still be valuable 2. The ability to adapt is crucial. One set of skills will not last 20 years, so teaching a child to be resilient and comfortable with change will help them to continuously learn and evolve.

So if your child seems like they’re not excelling in traditional measures of excellence, don’t panic Instead focus on developing their other skills and exploring all pathways. A child who is behind on maths and English might, in fact, have fantastic potential people skills. If they’re empathetic and kind, or adaptable and able to find solutions, that could take them further than their academic ability and give them the foundation to tackle a myriad of roles in the future.

For more from Gabrielle Nash, read her blog @londonishmum

www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2019

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Health

How to Sleep Better

By Dr. Neil Stanley

A

s we approach the run up to the busiest and most stressful time of the year, any sleep difficulties you generally experience can be heightened.

If you are a sleep deprived parent, it’s most likely because you have a child who is not sleeping well. Of course, there are things that you can do to help your child get a better night’s sleep, which will hopefully result in improved sleep for you but it is also important that parents seek to improve their own sleep.

The key to a well slept household is to put in place whatever sleep arrangements are right for you, your partner and your children - not what your friends, neighbours, motherin-law, sleep experts or self-help parenting books tell you.

Firstly, take control of the situation and agree the ‘sleep rules’ that work for you, your partner and child. How will you react to your child crying in the night or wanting to get into bed with you? How will you handle their resistance to going to sleep at a set bed-time? What is the right bed time? Once agreed, you need to stick to these rules and, if they are working, don’t change them.

How do you know whether it’s working? Simply, if your child is happy, healthy and well behaved and you and your partner feel awake, alert and focused during the day, don’t worry. If any of you are sleepy, moody and prone to temper tantrums, then your sleeping habits need improvement.

Here are some of my tips on how parents can sleep better: Avoid an Overloaded Schedule If your child does not have the time they need to sleep, then it’s likely you won’t either. Identify and prioritise activities that allow for relaxation and sufficient sleep time for yourselves and your children.

Take a Nap, Don’t Resort to Stimulants If you feel sleepy during the day, your body wants sleep - it does not want to be stimulated by caffeine or anything else! A 20 minute power nap will boost your mental performance and that improvement will last for a few hours. Napping for more than 20 minutes means that you risk waking in the deepest stage of sleep and will feel worse when you wake than you did before your nap.

Rationalise Sleeping Arrangements If children feel scared, insecure or lonely, they generally want to be comforted and reassured by a parent.

The most natural thing in the world if they are sleeping in a separate room is to come to into your room, and perhaps get into the bed. The way you deal with this is down to you, but if your child is going to sleep with a parent, it would probably be far easier for you or your partner to relocate to the child’s room or another bedroom, if available.

Alternate Night Time Parenting Rather than sharing the parenting duties every night, which just means that you are both disturbed, you can alternate duties so one partner gets a good night sleep every other night. It is even better, if you have the space, to have a ‘sleep’ bedroom and a ‘parent’ room, so your children genuinely do disturb only one of you every night.

Get Up and Do Something Relaxing If you are disturbed during the night and find it hard to go back to sleep, it is best to get up and do something relaxing, only going to bed again when you feel sleepy. Lying in bed feeling frustrated that you are not sleeping is counter-productive.

Don’t Get Uptight about Not Sleeping The reality is that you will survive a bad night’s sleep and cope okay the next day. Getting over anxious about not sleeping will only compound the problem. Remember that your children will not always need you during the night – all these things shall eventually pass!

Outdoor Exercise Works Getting exercise outside during the day is an ideal way to improve both your physical and mental health and aiding good sleep. You don’t have to jog or go to the gym - just a walk in the park will be beneficial.

Dr Neil Stanley is an independent sleep expert and the author of How to Sleep Well: The Science of Sleeping Smarter, Living Better and Being Productive (Capstone, July 2018).

For more information, visit www.thesleepconsultancy.com

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MAY - JUNE 2019 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Clubs & Classes

YOUR FIRST CHOICE FOR HIGH QUALITY, ACTION PACKED AND FUN SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITY CAMPS! They are a family owned company offering outstanding Easter clubs and summer clubs to keep children entertained in the school holidays.

With over 80 activities on offer, Kids love our multi-activity camps.

Their programmes have been developed over 25 years. Trusted by parents, we care for more children at our Easter camps and Summer camps than any other operator.

They run high quality Ofsted inspected activity day camps for children and young people aged 4 ½ - 14 years Delivering reassuring peace of mind for parents and fantastic FUN for kids. We like to think that we do a

pretty good job, but just to be sure we’re registered with Ofsted who have graded us as 'Outstanding' more times than any other childcare provider – 23 times since 2014.

Committed to offering the very best children’s camps. Introducing

DEVELOPING FUNDAMENTAL MOVEMENT SKILLS

innovative programmes and activities to always give children a choice to keep them busy and safe. They do it with enthusiasm, professionalism and FUN and always aim to give every child such an amazing experience they can’t wait to come back! www.barracudas.co.uk

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-12s

W

e all want our children to have as many opportunities to be happy healthy and confident.

YuniMoves is a Bromley based, independent company set up by Cherylene McLean: a teacher, parent and gymnastics coach who wanted to create a new opportunity to give toddlers and pre-schoolers a great start to developing a healthy lifestyle and a love for learning.

YuniMoves offers a gymnastic based program for 18-months to 5-year olds to discover, explore and learn Fundamental Movement Skills in a fun and engaging way.

The programs are intended to help children learn not only physical skills but to educate them in social, linguistic and problem-solving skills. It is designed on the British Gymnastics FUNdamental Program and uses themes, songs and props to develop body awareness whilst focussing on agility, balance and co-ordination.

A parent and child class is currently running in the Glades, Bromley and classes for children to work independently run during the holidays in Bickley. New classes are planned for 2019 in Orpington and other areas.

Visit www.yunimoves.com for more info

Perform is a unique children’s drama school which has an emphasis on child development. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s potential. Run by energetic and inspiring actorteachers, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration.

The curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, music downloads and videos allowing the magic to continue at home.

Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today.

020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk / www.perform.org.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2019

9

Clubs & Classes

Holiday sports camps Youngstars are delighted to announce that they will be delivering the Holiday Provision of Children’s Activities at the Eric Liddell Sports Centre, Eltham College. The facilities are nothing short of amazing, covering a stunning 70 acre site, there is a huge sports hall, 4 MUGA pitches (Multi-Use Games area), swimming pool, tennis courts & ample field space to run our vast selection of sports & activities.

Starting from May Half Term the camp will be opening up it’s age range to cater for children between 5 and 14 years. Children will be grouped by age at the start of each day before they embark on a day guaranteed to be full of fun, games and excitement along with a multitude of sports including; Football, Hockey, Rugby, Tennis, Swimming, Badminton, Cricket, Athletics, Dodgeball, Tri-Golf, Netball, Basketball & more. Every game, drill and exercise apart from being fun, is designed to improve coordination, awareness, motor skills and above all team work.

All of our Youngstars attendees need a bit of downtime during their time with us; so after snack and lunchtime we will be getting the creative juices flowing with 20/30 minutes of

structured and rotated arts and crafts activities.

Our team is a great blend of full time Teachers, Activity Leaders and Sports Coaches who possess the character, enthusiasm and experience to deliver a fun, structured and safe Holiday Camp. This is combined with a strong desire to work with and make a difference with our target age group.

All of our venues are OFSTED registered and can accept all form of childcare vouchers including the Government’s Tax-Free vouchers.

We take our responsibility over the safety and care of your children very seriously and the way we structure

y C 2 sw ear ele 01 im s o br 9 m f h ati in ig ng g h le qu ss a on lit s y

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HURRY... PLACES GOING QUICKLY

SUMMER INTENSIVES AT BROMLEY HIGH Mini 3 day Intensive course 24 - 26 July 2019 Summer 5 day Intensive course 29 July - 2 August 2019 Weekly term time Lessons at Bromley High, Bickley Park and Green Street Green. Adult and Child Lessons at Green Street Green Swimming is an essential life skill - so make sure you get it right!

Visit our website: www.aquakids.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @aquakidsuk, Instagram: @aquakids.uk or connect with us on Facebook: Aquakids

Swimming Lessons that last a lifetime

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MAY - JUNE 2019 www.familiesonline.co.uk

and operate our Holiday Camps has safe guarding at the very centre of it.

MAY HALF TERM HOLIDAYS Dates: Tues 28th - Fri 31st May Times: 8.30am – 5.30pm (Half Day options of 8.30am - 1pm & 1 - 5pm) Cost: £16 p/half day, £32 p/full day (£4 p/extended day) All bookings can be made via the website www.young-stars.co.uk/ camps.php For more info Email: info@young-stars.co.uk Call 0845 222 1313 or 07749 343116 www.young-stars.co.uk

COMPUTER CODING WORKSHOPS IN DULWICH Summer Holiday computer coding workshops Spark4Kids are running all-day holiday workshops that introduce children to computer coding through the medium of games. Available are courses on Minecraft Modding, Roblox Coding, Robotics, Games Design, MicroBit & Arduino coding, Python, HTML/CSS, JavaScript and Unity/C# in a fun, engaging environment. Ages 5-7 years, 8-12 and 13-16. The Summer Holiday workshops are taking place over two weeks in Dulwich from Monday 29th July to Friday 2nd August 2019, and then from Monday 12th August to Friday 16th August 2019.

Visit www.spark4kids.com or call 020 8090 1444 for more details.

Families

! e m i t y t r Pa

IT'S

P

lanning your child’s birthday can involve deep-breathing and military-style planning. This annual event has kids jumping for joy but many parents breaking out into a cold sweat. Claire Winter takes a look at some different party ideas to inspire you.

Food Parties Kids love food, so why not theme your party around it? A pizza making party is always winner. You can go to your favourite pizza restaurant or hold a DIY party at home. Cupcake decorating parties also go down well and the guests can take home the tasty treat instead of a party bag. How about a doughnut themed party? They are even trending on Pinterest! Why not set up a Doughnut Wall covered in a variety of doughnuts? You could even attempt a DIY version.

You could also serve food that has a surprise element to it. A cake that is full of sweets when you cut it. Ice cream cones filled with savoury fillings. You could also mix up healthy food with treats, such as marshmallows and fruit kebabs or tortilla chips with hummus and crudités. Number cakes decorated with fruit, meringues, and flowers are also all the rage. They make a great centrepiece on a party table.

Active Parties According to Pinterest searches for scavenger parties are up by 302%.

These are similar to treasure hunts and start with a list of things to find (or do) and a time limit. But there is no set path as players scavenge around and search for all of the items on the list. The player or team who finds everything on the list first or finds the most items before the time is up wins. These parties can be great fun and relatively inexpensive you could hold one in your garden or a local park or wood.

You can also do a whole variety of different activities at your local leisure centre. They often offer a variety of swimming, inflatable and sports parties. Why not pick a sport your child loves? You could also check out your local trampoline park to see what party packages they offer. Other easy activity parties include paintballing, bowling, laser quest and go-karting.

Parties at Home If you want to host a party at home, think about hiring a company to help. You can even get specialists to come in and set up a sleepover these days. They will put up tents in your garden or your home, and some even supply breakfast on a tray!

Or host a science party where someone comes in to do experiments and make goo with the children.

They’ll even clean up afterwards.

There are also gaming party providers who bring all the entertainment to you. If you prefer a more traditional party, why not hire an entertainer like a magician or clown?

Themed Parties Magical forest and flower-themed parties are great fun to host if you like being creative. A perennial favourite is also a superhero party. It ticks a lot of boxes and offers great

fancy dress options for boys and girls. There are also loads of great decorations you can make, or buy if you don’t have the time!

Another popular party is a Harry Potter party. You can make up lots of magical games to recreate a mini Hogwarts at home. You could also try something a bit different like a Mexican themed party. Decorate the house with cacti, serve guacamole and dips, hit a Piñata and have plenty of themed games.

Art Parties If your child loves making things, an arts and crafts party is the perfect choice for them. You can go to pottery centres, art studios or get a party provider to come to your house to host a craft party. You can do a huge variety of things like mosaics, pottery, painting and jewellery making. Your potential Picassos will also get to take their masterpiece home instead of a party bag.

Remember not to stress too much!

Your child will remember your efforts whether you hire a circus performer and a bouncy castle; host a fun party at home or organise a trip out the cinema or a trampoline park. Enjoy it and embrace the mayhem; they grow up quickly! www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2019

11

Clubs & Classes

Out & About T H E B EST O F W H AT ’S O N N EA R YOU

MONSTROUS FUN IN THE WEST END THIS SUMMER! THE GRUFFALO LIVE ON STAGE Celebrating the 20th birthday of the much-loved picture book, 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 from Wednesday 3 July to Sunday 8 September 2019.

The Gruffalo written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, published by Macmillan Children’s Book in 1999, was adapted for the stage

by Tall Stories in 2001 and has since been delighting audiences around the world. Founded by Artistic Directors Olivia Jacobs and Toby Mitchell, Tall Stories’ other productions include ‘Wilde Creatures’, ‘The Canterville Ghost’, ‘The Gruffalo’s Child’, ‘Emily Brown and The Thing’, ‘The Snail and The Whale’, ‘The Snow Dragon’ and ‘Room on the Broom’.

Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood. Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the highspirited Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there is no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there?

Expect songs, laughs and monstrous fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups!

WEDNESDAY 3 JULY – SUNDAY 8 SEPTEMBER Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 7ES Gruffalolive.com

12

MAY - JUNE 2019 www.familiesonline.co.uk

ONGOING

FAMILY EVENTS AT CUTTY SARK Cutty Sark, King William Walk, Greenwich, London, SE10 9HT

Calling all…sailors! Take the family to Cutty Sark in Greenwich for an actionpacked day out on the fastest ship of its time. Meet characters from the ship’s past such as Captain Woodget and the ship’s cook and listen to their epic stories about life on board. Try and outwit the crew in the Sailors’ Challenge game, find your sea legs by taking the helm at the ship's wheel, follow a family trail or take part in fun workshops. Book now to save 10%. www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark

3 M AY ZOG

The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED Time: 11am, 2pm, 4:30pm

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog comes to life in this magical adaptation with a sumptuous folk score featuring live

musicians. Zog promises to be roaring fun for all ages.

Until 6 May 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

4 M AY

BROMLEY PARKRUN Norman Park, Hayes Lane, Bromley, BR2 9EF Time: 9am

Weekly free 5km timed run. Go along and join in whatever your pace! Please register before your first run.

0300 303 8658 www.parkrun.org.uk/bromley

MAY DAY FESTIVAL Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Celebrate May Day at Hever Castle & Gardens over the early May Bank Holiday. Join Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn and dance around the Maypole with brightly coloured ribbons intertwined. There’s a Green Man trail through the grounds and a duckling trail in the Castle, plus children can have their face painted.

Until 6 May 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

Out & About

5 M AY

Time: 10am-4pm

Cascades Leisure Centre, Thong Lane, Gravesend, DA12 4LG

Award winning Village fete with displays, activities, dog show, Cycling info, bike marking and tryouts, stalls, fun, food and drinks. www.facebook.com/ WickhamDay

MINIATURE STEAM TRAIN RIDES Whatever the weather the miniature trains runs every Sunday from April to October, 2pm until 5pm, at the grounds of the Cascade Leisure Centre.

50p a ride – FUN FOR ALL! www.gmmes.co.uk

MONTHLY FARMERS MARKET Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road , Bexley, Kent, DA5 1PQ Time: 10am - 2pm

On the first Sunday of every month you can buy the best local produce at Hall Place. Meet the farmers and producers, try food samples and buy everything from home-grown fruit and vegetables, through to delicious cakes, breads and cheese. Free entry.

Also 2 June 01322 526 574 www.hallplace.org.uk

6 M AY

WEST WICKHAM VILLAGE DAY Blake Park Recreation Ground, Pine Ave, West Wickham BR4 0LW

1 1 M AY

Wood, Gravesend, DA12 4SD

Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA

Go along to the Family Festival at Riverview Junior School.

Back by popular demand the very talented Miss Vintage.

BEN & HOLLY’S LITTLE KINGDOM Join Ben and Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter.

This beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence will delight all the family!

1 1 M AY

MUM2MUM NEARLY NEW SALE Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 3DH. Time: 2-4pm

Also 12 May 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

Grab a bargain or sell your nearly new items.

Refreshments, cake, face painter and kids activities at every event. Free car park.

1 3 M AY

BRING YOUR OWN BABY COMEDY

Also 8 June www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED Time: 12-2pm

WITH MAP AND MUSKET National Trust Quebec House, Quebec Square, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1TD Time: 1-4pm

Bring history to life with an historic re-enactment. Join the eighteenth century surveyor as he explains how map makers played a key role in the Quebec campaign.

Also 8 June www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quebechouse

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy is the UK’s premier baby friendly comedy club! Their shows feature the funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV. Also 10 June 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

1 8 M AY

FAMILY FESTIVAL Riverview Junior School, Cimba

FAMILY FOREST FUN CLUB SESSIONS Pickhurst Infant Academy, Eastry Avenue, Hayes, Kent BR2 7PQ Time: 10-11.30am

These sessions are for any child age 0-10 years old accompanied by an adult.

During a session children will be playing and exploring the site, mud painting, den building, and much more, as well as collecting wood for the camp fire. There will always be a craft on offer such as making a bird feeder or planting a seed.

Also 15 June www.forestfunclub.co.uk

1 9 M AY

DORSET ROAD ALLOTMENTS OPEN DAY Dorset Road Allotments, Dorset Road, Beckenham, BR3 4EA Time: 11am-3pm

A fun day out at this community run allotment site. Lots to see and do, including activities for children and a range of stalls and

THIS SUMMER, WHY NOT GET INVOLVED IN NATIONAL CHILDREN’S GARDENING WEEK? Happening from 25 May to 2 June, this week-long event sees garden centres around the country providing activities and resources that offer parents a great opportunity to get children outside enjoying nature, plants and wildlife.

Gardening can play a huge part in a child’s health and wellbeing with over 1.5 million children gardening at school in the UK. As well as simply good outdoor fun, school gardening has been shown to have many benefits to health and wellbeing. These include being more physically active and feeling happier and more connected with the natural world.

There are many ways to get involved with National Children’s Gardening Week from DIY activities at home to attending an event at a garden centre.

Visit www.childrensgardeningweek.co.uk for DIY project ideas and details of local events.

www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2019

13

Out & About

entertainment. www.dorsetroadallotments.org.uk

2 0 M AY

BRING YOUR OWN BABY COMEDY Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA

A funny, friendly afternoon of top comedy and... you can bring your baby! Bring Your Own Baby Comedy is the UK's premier baby friendly comedy club! Their shows feature the funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV. 020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

2 2 M AY

TOM GATES LIVE ON STAGE The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED Time: 10:30am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm, 7pm

Based on the best-selling books by Liz Pichon, this brand-new story is bought to you by the award-winning producers of Horrible Histories and Gangsta Granny. It’s pure fun for the whole family whether you're a lover of the books or new to Tom and his friends!

Go along to the crafting tent to decorate a mask with an abundance of natural materials to choose from.

Craft flowers from pipe cleaners. Take the perfect portrait as spring blooms in the Red House garden.

Until 2 June www.nationaltrust.org.uk/redhouse

MAY HALF TERM EXOTIC ANIMAL TRAIL Chartwell - National Trust, Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1PS.

Discover Winston's favourite exotic pets and animals from London Zoo and all around the world hidden throughout the garden on this fun family trail.

Some of them roar, some of them climb, others fly, two of them swim and one of them even hops!

Until 2 June www.nationaltrust.org.uk

HALF-TERM ACTIVITY TRAIL Lullingstone Country Park, Castle Road, Eynsford, Kent, DA4 0JF Time: 10am-3pm Cost: £3

BACH TO BABY FAMILY CONCERT: VICTORIAN VOX POP

Shorne Woods Country Park, Brewers Road, Shorne, Gravesend, DA12 3HX Time: 10am-3pm Cost: £3

Explore the woods following our self-led activity trail and see what you can discover about the park. All completed trails will receive a small prize.

Until 9 June 03000 41 18 11 www.kent.gov.uk

2 6 M AY

ELLIE’S MINI MARATHON Cyclopark, The Tollgate, Wrotham Road, Gravesend, DA11 7NP

EDWARDIAN LIFE Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

www.ellie’sminimarathon.

03000 41 18 11 www.kent.gov.uk

LIVE ON STAG E

BASED ON THE PICTURE BOOK BY

JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER

WED 3 JUL - SUN 8 SEP

BOOK NOW gruffalolive.com MAY - JUNE 2019 www.familiesonline.co.uk

The Gruffalo © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 1999 – Macmillan Children’s Books.

2 5 M AY

14

01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

Ellie is calling children aged 5-16 years old to take to the tracks at Cyclopark in Gravesend for the best children’s Fun Run in town!

This is a chance to inspire our young philanthropists as each participant is asked to raise a minimum of £30 in sponsorship to support this local hospice.

Until 26 May 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

Red House, Red House Lane, Bexleyheath, London, DA6 8JF

the whole family! Direct from their new series on itv Sooty, Sweep and Soo head into town accompanied by TV’s Richard Cadell.

SHORNE WOODS HALF TERM ACTIVITY TRAIL

Explore the woods following the self-led activity trail and see what you can discover about the park. All completed trails will receive a small prize.

MAY HALF TERM ACTIVITIES

During May half term at Hever Castle you can meet costumed characters from the Edwardian era and play traditional games of the period. Traditional Punch and Judy show and games from the period such as hoopla, tin-can alley, and boules.

SING-A-LONG-A THE GREATEST SHOWMAN Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA

Sing-a-long-a Productions brings you their newest show, the smash hit film musical that everyone can’t stop singing The Greatest Showman! Fancy dress is strongly encouraged and full audience participation essential. Please note this is a screening of the movie not a live stage show.

020 3285 6000 www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

2 7 M AY

THE SOOTY SHOW The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED Time: 11am, 2:30pm

Izzy wizzy let’s get busy! Sooty is back in a brand-new show with guaranteed giggles for

01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

2 8 M AY

Bromley United Reformed Church, 20 Widmore Road, Bromley BR1 1RY

This spring, celebrate the 200th birthday of Queen Victoria with Bach to Baby!

Doors open at 10am. Concert lasts for about an hour. www.bachtobaby.com/bromleymusic-concerts-for-baby-andfamily

DINO MAY Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road , Bexley, Kent, DA5 1PQ

Go and have a ROARING time at Hall Place & Gardens this May! Includes a hilarious story and dinosaur craft to take home. 10am & 2pm (1 hr session). £4 children, adults free. Advance booking required.

Until 31 May 01322 621 238 www.hallplace.org.uk

3 0 M AY

BIG PET EVENT Gravesend Borough Market, Queen Street, Gravesend, Kent DA11 0AZ Time: 9am - 5pm

A fabulous pet event is taking place at Gravesend Borough Market this May. There will be a market full of pet related stalls, you can take part in fun free activities and enjoy talks and advice from the animal experts. www.gravesendboroughmarket. co.uk

3 1 M AY

THE LUNA CINEMA - THE GREATEST SHOWMAN & BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY Danson House, Danson Park, Danson Road, Bexleyheath, DA6 8HL

Danson House will once again play host to the Luna big screen this summer.

This beautiful grade 1 listed Palladian villa, built in 1766, and its award winning grounds will provide the ultimate backdrop for some fantastic nights of cinema under the stars.

Out & About

Until 1 June www.thelunacinema.com

1 JUNE

ENCHANTED CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL 2019 Priory Gardens, Orpington BR6 0HH

A free children's community festival set in the beautiful Priory garden's, Orpington This is a one day event that will allow children and their families to enjoy a free, fully programmed day of arts and creativity with music, performances and loads of free workshops. www.enchantedfest.com

2 JUN

THE BIG LUNCH Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road , Bexley, Kent, DA5 1PQ

The Big Lunch is the UK’s annual get together for a nationwide act of community and friendship.

So why not go down to Hall Place and picnic in the beautiful grounds with friends and family, or even enjoy the BBQ and Riverside Café onsite.

01322 621 238 www.hallplace.org.uk

8 JUNE

CHILDREN’S ART WEEK Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road , Bexley, Kent, DA5 1PQ

A UK wide programme to encourage children, young people, families and teachers to engage with the visual arts.

Join in by visiting Hall Place and drawing your favourite scene.

Until 16 June 01322 621 238 www.hallplace.org.uk

9 JUNE

CHEEKI MONKEYS BIG BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET Gravesend Borough Market, Queen Street, Gravesend, Kent DA11 0AZ

Go along to the Cheeki Monkeys Big Baby & Children‘s Market from 10am-2pm. Save up to 90% on quality preloved goods - clothes, toys, prams, cots, walkers, high chairs, books, playpens and much more! www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk

SUMMER SHOW The Woodlands Farm Trust, 331

Shooters Hill, Welling DA16 3RP Time: 11am-4pm

All are welcome at the Woodlands Farm Trust Summer Show which is combined with Open Farm Sunday again this year. Go and meet our animals, watch the Falconry Show, a Sheep Shearing Display and an opportunity to try the TractorDrawn Trailer Rides.

020 8319 8900 www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

15 JUNE

FATHER’S DAY SUPERCAR WEEKEND Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Classic cars in a stunning location with a myriad of food options to boot – the perfect way to thank dad this Father’s Day is at Hever Castle & Gardens. There will be supercars on display as well as fun activities for the kids.

Until 16 June 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

17 JUNE ANNIE

The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED

FAMILY FUN AT HEVER CASTLE & GARDENS Discover more about the Edwardian era with a host of fun half term activities at Hever Castle and Gardens (25 May to 2 June).

Visitors can enjoy a traditional Punch and Judy show as well as try their hand at games including hoopla, tincan alley and boules or enjoy a leisurely game of croquet.

Join famous author Arthur Conan Doyle as he investigates reports of fairy sightings around the gardens.

The smash-hit production of ANNIE comes to Dartford for one week only direct from London’s West End. With its Tony® award-winning book and score you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll love it!

Children will also have a chance to learn about the roles of the household at a Butler School.

Until 22 June 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

More info at www.hevercastle.co.uk

22 JUNE

HEVER’S HOME FRONT Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Step back in time to wartime Britain at Hever’s Home Front at this 1940s event. Take part in a swing dance in the tea dance tent, tap your toes to music and browse stalls selling vintage wares and refreshments.

Until 23 June 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

23 JUN

BABYBALLET: TWINKLE & TEDDY'S GRAND ADVENTURE The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED Time: 10.30am 1.45pm & 5pm

Join Twinkle and Teddy as they

In the Castle young visitors can learn about Edwardian inventions.

head on their Grand Adventure with their friends Flutterstar the Fairy, Chuck the Cowboy and Grandad Jack but most importantly the real stars of the show, the babyballet boys and girls.

01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

28 JUNE

CHISLEHURST FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL Chislehurst Recreation Ground, London, BR7 5DF

Something for all the family, with food stalls, hot food and beverages. Friday: 11am to 7pm, Saturday: 9am to 7pm, Sunday 10am to 5pm.

Until 30 June www.marketsquaregroup.co.uk

29 JUNE

MUM2MUM NEARLY NEW SALE Ravens wood School, Oakley Road, Bromley BR2 8HP Time: 10am-12noon.

Grab a bargain or sell your nearly new items.

Refreshments, cake, face painter and kids activities at every event. Free car park. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

1 J U LY

CANADA DAY National Trust Quebec House, Quebec Square, Westerham, TN16 1TD Time: 1-4pm

Help celebrate Canada Day with storytelling and go and try Mrs Wolfes recipes. nationaltrust.org.uk/quebec-house

www.familiesonline.co.uk MAY - JUNE 2019

15

Ages 5-14yrs

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