Families North London July/August 2021

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IN THIS ISSUE 30 Things to do this Summer Mums in Business Competitions and Giveaways

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Issue 149 July/August 2021 familiesonline.co.uk

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July/August 3

Orchard Toys Game Giveaway!

Calling all young Scientists!

Help us discover how babies & kids learn!

We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s Babylab & ToddlerLab in central London. Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses.

We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies 020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

6 bundles available, worth £27.80 each 3 games per bundle

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Welcome

In this issue: 6 Mums in Business 7 Family News 8 - 15 Summer and Holidays 16 Purple Pages 18 - 21 Health 22 - 25 Food 26 - 27 Family Life 28 - 36 Education and Summer Learning

CONTACT US: Families North London Magazine Editor:

Danielle & Helen T: 07815 573 052 / 07411 070 316 E: editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk HADLEY WOOD HIGH BARNET

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FINCHLEY HENDON BRENT CROSS BRENT CROSS

Welcome to our July/August Issue! Summer has arrived in London and we have everything you need to stay busy and entertained right here in our Summer issue. With ‘30 Ideas for Summer Fun’, advice for travelling with toddlers and kids and ways to boost learning this summer, you’re sure to get the most out of this season.

We’ve also got some great giveaways and competitions to enter. So, grab yourself a beverage and get stuck in!

Enjoy your summer and stay safe.

Danielle and Helen

Danielle

Helen

Paper used to print Families North London is from fully-managed sustainable sources and is recyclable.

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Welcome to our July / August issue!

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THE PERFECT SUMMER TREAT

WIN a family ticket for 4 to see What the Ladybird Heard Live on Stage at the Palace Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue LIV E O STA N GE

Based on the award -winning picture book by

Julia Donaldson & Lydia Monks © Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks 2009.

PALACE THEATRE 15 JUL– 29 AUG BOOK NOW nimaxtheatres.com

Familiesonline.co.uk

Email your answer to the question below with your name and the subject heading LADYBIRD SOUTH WEST COMPETITION to info@familiesmagazine.co.uk before midnight on Wednesday 21st July 2021. Applies to selected performances only*.

What do Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len want to steal from the farm? a. The Ladybird b. The fine prize cow c. The woolly sheep Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer's fine prize cow. But the Ladybird has a scheme of her own! Join the clever Ladybird as she leads the animals on their quest to save the day. With live music, puppetry and a whole farmyard of fun, this 55-minute family favourite is the perfect summer treat! For ages 3+ whattheladybirdheardlive.co.uk @LiveLadybird T&Cs - Prize is for one family ticket (admits 4, minimum 1 adult) to see What the Ladybird Heard at the Palace Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue for selected performances from * Saturday 24 July to Sunday 29 August 2021 only. The winner will be selected by random prize draw of the entries with the correct answer. Tickets are subject to availability, hold no cash value and are not transferable. No answers will be accepted after the closing date of midnight on Wednesday 21st July 2021 and all decisions are final.

What the Ladybird Heard © Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks 2009. Macmillan Children’s Books

July/August 5

HOLIDAYS

Mums in Business

Top tips for a successful start up

By Kath Goodes

Maternity leave was the first time in my life when I was not constantly rushing around, working or studying or doing something.

Suddenly I could spend some time thinking about business ideas!

If you are thinking of starting a business, like I was, here are my top tips for a successful start up.

A business idea Ideally, your business idea should be something that you are really passionate about. Best to choose something that you enjoy every day or you will run out of steam very quickly. Also, think about your Unique Selling Point – what are you offering that is different?

I feel really passionate about creating safe and personalised baby toys and could talk about it all day thankfully. When I go shopping, I go around looking at baby toys and checking out their safety labels!

ESTABLISHED KIDS CLUBS

FOR SALE

MUSIC

ARTS

Home-based business Children's parties/events Toddler groups

Hampstead NW3

DRAMA

Trade just 14 weeks per year / 3 hours per day

Large database

Staff managed

This business offers Kids Clubs and Children’s Parties and events for clients throughout the North West London area. There is enormous scope to expand into any area of the country as the business is partly home-based and offers children’s parties in client’s homes, as well as leasing a hall in the holidays for kids clubs.

SALE PRICE: £55,000

6 July/August

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Support from partner and family I am really lucky to have an extremely supportive and patient husband, although I think I must have really tested the limit of his patience sometimes. The house was overrun with stock, he had to stay up late packing orders with me – it was all a struggle. So, I highly recommend having a conversation with your partner up front so that they are fully bought in to your business idea.

A support network of other small business owners One thing I discovered early on is a network of other small business owners, who I can reach out to for advice – from day to day operational things like Royal Mail queries, to more strategic questions like market expansion and marketing. I also do a lot of joint marketing events, such as giveaways with other small businesses.

Funding The adage ‘you need money to make money,’ is certainly true. You will need to think about how you fund your venture, whether that’s from your own savings, a loan or a grant. There are some government schemes that offer funding so...

READ MORE Familiesonline.co.uk

Family News Going local at the Festival of Archaeology The UK’s biggest archaeological event, the Festival of Archaeology runs from 17 July to 1 August and the theme this year is ‘Exploring Local Places.’

Through nationwide digital and on-site events, archaeological experts will help families discover how your local landscape has changed and shaped to become what it is now, as well as discover exciting stories about your local community.

Join educational guided walks, listen to talks, get involved with exciting archaeological excavations, or join digitally online through social media, and discover more about your local area.

Marcus Rashford’s new family cooking show Football star Marcus Rashford has teamed up with award-winning chef, Tom Kerridge to launch a new family cooking show called Full Time: Get Cooking With Marcus and Tom. The Manchester United striker, who last year forced the Government to extend free school meal provision for struggling families, said he wanted to inspire people to make easy but healthy meals on a budget.

More info: festival.archaeologyuk.org

The pair’s fifty two tutorials will be posted on Instagram every Sunday, and cover recipes including fish pie, Mexican-style chicken, and Mr Rashford’s childhood favourite, spaghetti Bolognese, with Mr Kerridge showing the Manchester United player how to cook.

New dating app for single parents

They are aimed at families on a tight budget, with limited time, few expensive kitchen gadgets little knowledge of cooking.

A new dating app catering solely to single parents has been launched in the UK. Called Playdate, the app was developed by a single mum, Nevine Country, who was frustrated at the lack of opportunities to meet like-minded single parents. Its purpose is to allow single parents to find love as well as a partner who can support them and their children.The app’s main feature will be based on your location so will only show you other single parents in your area and in your school district.

The clips will also feature famous faces from sport, music and television. Recipe cards will be available in supermarkets, schools and food banks.

More info: Instagram @fulltimeals

The app will also provide childcare options and date ideas to make the dating experience stress-free.

More info: www.gotoplaydate.com

2021 Summer Reading Challenge - Wild World Heroes The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children ages 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal.

Children’s reading can decline during the holidays if they don’t have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure.

This year’s nature-themed challenge called ‘Wild World Heroes’ will inspire children not only to read books but to discover how they can make a difference to the environment too.

The Challenge will launch in libraries and online on Saturday 10 July.

More info www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 7

Summer

Outdoor toys for summer We asked our friends at The Good Toy Guide (www.goodtoyguide.com) to put together their recommendations for fun, educational outdoor toys for the season.

You can read reviews of each toy on their site.

Discovery Adventures Digital Walkie Talkies Ages 6 to 8 years

floor game for two to four players, this game is great for getting children active indoors and outdoors and encouraging co-ordination and balance. Children layout the coloured discs and use the spinner to decide their next move through the stepping stones, disappearing discs and racetrack.

£24.99 These walkie talkies are great for encouraging children to engage in active and imaginative play, the superfood of the healthy play diet.

The kit includes two lightweight and compact digital walkie talkies with an outdoor range of up to 3km and call alert and press to talk buttons.

Learning Resources 5 in 1 Outdoor Measure Mate Ages 4 to 7 years

Geosafari Kidnoculars Ages 3 to 8 years

£27.00

£22.50 Child-friendly binoculars with built in microphone and no focus required. Promotes STEM-based scientific observation of nature. Looking and listening to their surroundings teaches children observation skills as well as promotes the learning of new vocabulary.

Diditrike Ages 1 to 2 years £39.99 A lightweight, durable ride-on, which features smooth wheels and an easy to manoeuvre handlebar and no pedals or batteries. It has been designed to provide ultimate support and stability and the freewheeling design allows for some serious whizzing around. Suitable for use indoors and outdoors on any smooth, flat surface.

Galt Hop Skip Jump Game Ages 5 to 7 years £19.99 An exciting, 3-in-1 8 July/August

The 5-in-1 Measure Mate is a great tool for introducing children to the concept of measurement and for showing them it’s not just distance that can be measured. It can be used to its full potential once an adult demonstrates how to use it and is easy for children to take apart to use each element and then put back together again.

Trends Paint-a-Puzzle Ages 3 to 8 years £12.99

how weather systems work and allows them to investigate wind, rain, storms, clouds, temperature, evaporation, pressure and more.

The JUNKO Zoomer Kit Ages 6 to 10 years £36.99 A STEM toy that is both fun and educational and turns junk into toys that go, showing children that recycling can be fun! Makes thousands of different toys. Fits all sizes of boxes, bottles and cartons and more. Sturdy, re-usable parts mean the kit can be used again and again.

Discovery Adventures Metal Detector Ages 6+ £22.99 This lightweight metal detector is a great way for young explorers to discover common metal objects.

Featuring a sensitivity and volume control, the detector emits a beeping sound when close to metal, and the flashing indicator lights speed up and change colour.

Perfect for little hands, Paint-A-Puzzle comes with twelve giant sturdy pieces, which are easy to build. The super silky Paint Sticks create strong, vibrant colours that bring the puzzle to life. A fun, clean and convenient way to paint with water-soluble, child-friendly solid paint that twists up and down like a glue stick.

Thames & Kosmos First Weather Science Kit Ages 5+ £13.50 Build a weather station and follow the simple instructions delivered mostly through illustrations to carry out eight weather experiments. This Weather Science kit helps address common questions kids have on Familiesonline.co.uk

Summer

ENTER OUR MAGICAL WORLD OF MYTHS AND LEGENDS

13 Aug – 5 Sep

Book Tickets Today! openairtheatre.com/dragons

Familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 9

Summer

Out and About in North London A. Flying high. The top of Hampstead Heath not only gives you breathtaking views of London’s skyline but a perfect site to fly a kite on a windy day. They’re cheap and easy to buy, or you can even make your own. Read up on tips about how to fly them. www.thekitesociety.org.uk

E. Visit a Castle. Immerse yourself in history in one of North London’s stately homes and gardens. Choose from Myddleton House, Stephen’s House and Gardens or Kenwood House, to name a few. Visit www. sloely.com/north-london-historichouses/ to find out more.

B. Festival of Fun Chickenshed is back this summer with its brand-new Festival of Fun. Nine days packed full of events for children aged 0 to 11 years. Events include performances of Keilly Swift’s best-selling children’s books The Tigon and the Liger and How to Make a Better World, plus our hugely popular Tales Big Day Out - and much, much more! For information on all the activities, visit: www.chickenshed.org.uk. Sat 31 Jul – Sun 8 Aug, Chickenshed, Southgate N14 4PE

F. Dragons and Mythical Beasts at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Calling all brave heroes! Enter into a magical world of myths and legends in this fantastical new show for all the family. Visit www.openairtheatre.com/ for more information.

C. V isit a city farm. North London is so fortunate to have a number of superb city farms for the public to enjoy.

Check out the ones at Freightliners City Farm, Kentish Town City Farm, Mudchute Park and Hackney City Farm for a great day out. www. freightlinersfarm.org.uk/ D. G o to a festival. Missing the fields since lockdown? There’s plenty of family-friendly festivals out there.

Check out Livestock Music Festival at Forty Hall Farm on July 24th 2021.

Find out more at www.livestockuk. com/

G. Get paddling. Paddleboarding or SUP is a growing sport, which you can do with the whole family. Give it a whirl on the canals in Camden at www.paddleboardinglondon.co.uk/ H. Head for heights. Rock climbing is another great activity for adults and kids (8+) alike. Visit The Castle Climbing Centre, N4 for a fun challenge for the family. www.castleclimbing.co.uk/ I. Waterway Wonder. Drifting on the canals is one of the best ways to see the capital. Take it one step further and learn about the unique history at the London Canal Museum, N1. www. canalmuseum.org.uk/

deciding what to grow and charting its progress. Visit www.finchleynurseries. net/ for all your gardening needs.

K. Park, Woodland and Garden adventures. Explore your nearest woodland (www.forestryengland. uk/). Waterlow Park, Highgate Woods and Alexandra Park have an array of activities to offer with cafes, wildlife, sports, woodland and water. www. alexandrapalace.com/ L. Sand sculpture. Sand sculpting isn’t just for professional artists. Why not take your children on a beach day out with sculpture in mind? A beach in London? Try www.thebeachbrentcross.com/ M. Wild swimming. Nothing beats swimming in nature, you could try wild paddling if you have little ones!

North London has some great spots, including the infamous Hampstead Heath. Try out the West Reservoir Centre, N4, for a variety of water sports. www.better.org.uk All Over… Explore geocaching. Join the world’s largest treasure hunt! Did you know there are over 8000 geocaches to be found in London? What are you waiting for? Download the app and get searching! www.geocaching.com/play

J. Get green-fingered. Plant a veggie grow bag. You don’t need any more space than a window-box, or a tiny space in your yard. Your kids will love

A little Further...

Celtic Harmony. Hunter Gatherers / Stonehenge Builders / Celtic warriors Summer Days Out at The Festival of Prehistory, Celtic Harmony Camp, 10 miles North of Enfield.

Thursdays - Mondays 17 July-2 August.

Enjoy a day of fun activities, good food and shows from Friction Fire lighting to Stone Age Talks, Hunter Gatherer Quest, Cave Drawing and visit the Palaeolithic Cave. Pre-bookings only with limited entry slots - book today at www.celticharmony.org Roundhouse Overnight Stays Thursday-Sunday, 17 July to 30 August.

Celtic Harmony Camp, Outdoor Prehistory Settlement, 10 miles North of Enfield. Escape for an overnight break, sleep in the comfort of your own roundhouse with king size bed and single beds (up to 2 adults and 3 children) all linen and towels included.

Enjoy a tasty BBQ dinner with vegan and vegetarian option and explore the woods at night on a Bat Walk before storytelling and marshmallows

10 July/August

around the fire. Wake up to freshly baked croissants for your continental breakfast. Check availability & Book your overnight stay at www.celticharmony.org Find Pooh Bear. Just beyond Barnet, in Aldenham Country Park, lies 100 Aker Wood, home to Winnie the Pooh.

Follow the trail and see where Pooh has his new home before indulging in a picnic and adventure playground.

All aboard. If you’ve got a budding engineer in your family, inspire them at the London Transport Museum’s Future Engineers exhibition where you can ‘drive’ a London Underground Tube train. www.ltmuseum.co.uk Van Gogh in 3D. A multi-sensory family-friendly experience designed to immerse visitors in the life of Vincent van Gogh is coming to Kensington Gardens in London and Birmingham this summer. Special technology will display the artist’s works in a

kaleidoscope of colour. www.vangoghaliveuk.com History fun. Visit the Foundling Museum and explore the history of the Foundling Hospital, established in 1793.

The museum always hosts activities to engage children and families as they wander. www.foundlingmuseum.org. uk/ Light me up. Hidden in an unassuming area of London is God’s Own Junkyard.

It’s the largest collection of vintage neon signs in Europe. Its late owner, Chris Bracey, created props for legendary directors Tim Burton, Stanley Kubrick and Christopher Nolan. www. godsownjunkyard.co.uk Take to the skies. For a really special treat, book a hot balloon flight for the family. Suitable for children who are 7+ and at least 4ft 6in (1.4m) tall. Must also be accompanied by a responsible adult. www.adventureballoons.co.uk/

Familiesonline.co.uk

Summer

Trent Park

Forty Hall Estate

Dyrham Park

Enfield

D

B

J

Barnet E

Haringey

K

Alexandra Park

L H

Hampstead Heath

M

Islington

A

Camden

C G F

Regents Park

I

DISCLAIMER: We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these lists are compiled several weeks in advance and due to possible changes in restrictions, events and attractions may be subject to change.

Please check before setting out.

Other great activities to try at home…

Bubble fun. Lockdown has seen a boom in garden parties. You could host a hot tub party or book it as a summer weekend treat for the family! Go the whole hog and hire a projector and keep the party going until the evening! www.4fungroup.co.uk Letter fishing. This is a fun game for pre-schoolers. Grab yourself some magnetic letters from the fridge, some string, a pencil, and a paperclip. Make a DIY fishing rod so your little one can fish for letters.

Family History. How about finding out a bit more about your past and making a family tree? Get your kids to do some research about their grandparents and distant relatives. Websites like https:// www.ancestry.co.uk/ and https://www. findmypast.co.uk/ are useful places to start.

Write it out. Journaling has really taken off in the last few years and it’s a great non-screen activity which can also help children understand

Familiesonline.co.uk

emotions and developing creativity.

You can buy one or get your kids to create their own. Younger children can draw pictures instead of writing. www. hobbycraft.co.uk/ Treasure Hunt. Go on a colour treasure hunt. Give your kids a map with colours on it so they can hunt for something matching each colour in nature. You could try it for leaves and flowers too.

Draw outside. An outdoor blackboard will encourage all sorts of games and creativity. All you need is a piece of board, ideally marine plywood, cut to the size you require, and some blackboard paint. Keep chalks in a waterproof box, ready for artistic inspiration.

Get appy. Get reluctant kids excited to go out for a walk with a brilliant app, Caper. Download the app, and receive a call from Captain Redtail who needs help locating a crashed spaceship. Find out more a www.caper.co/ Stargaze! Choose a night when the sky is very clear, and there’s no moon. Before you go out, research a constellation that should be visible at the time of year. You can also use an app like Skyview Lite too. Or check out the 5 best sky gazing apps at www. sciencefocus.com/space

July/August 11

Summer

Chickenshed is back this summer with its brand-new Festival of Fun. Join us for nine days packed full of events for children aged from 0 to 11 years. With shows and activities centred around the themes of togetherness and caring, we have something for everyone.

Alongside our sensory show for the very youngest of audiences, Planet Play, there will be other shows and activities for the 0-7s, such as the return of our 2019...

READ MORE

Holiday Clubs

Artz Kidz Summer School for ages 4-7yrs and 8-11yrs years at Raglan School EN1.

Little Supernovas popular awardwinning holiday schools for ages 3-9 year olds, N6, N19

Stage Academy’s Wonderland! holiday camp for 4 – 8 year olds, N6

Stage Academy: Week in the West End Summer Holiday workshops for ages 8+ with teachers direct from London’s West End, N6

Perform’s Alice in Wonderland summer holiday course for 4-10s, various locations 12 July/August

Familiesonline.co.uk

Whats On!

WHAT’S ON!

To have your event listed on these pages email the details to listings@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk Disclaimer: We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks before hand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.

JULY July & August Bach to Baby Concerts, Various Venues across North London classical concert series for babies, toddlers & carers, check website for venues, dates and times,booking essential, www.bachtobaby.com July & August Kenwood House (NW3) Pick up to five discovery tools to take with you as you explore Kenwood together, for families with children between 5-11 years old, https:// www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ kenwood/ FREE July & August Natural History Museum (SW7) Discover where the real world and the Wizarding World intertwine &how the wonders of the natural world have inspired myths, legends and magical creatures for generations. All Ages, tickets from £13.25 https://www.nhm.ac.uk Mon to Thu, 5 Jul – 31 Aug Shells Beach Club & Baby Beach Club @JW3 (NW3) an interactive, creative & sunny beach experience for you & your little ones, with crafts, singing, and yoga, ages 4-6 @ 2pm & ages 0-3 @ 3.30pm, booking essential at https://www.jw3.org.uk/whats-on/shellsbeach-club FREE Fri 9 Jul – Sat 17 Jul Tales from the Shed Summer Season @ Chickenshed (N14) vibrant, interactive theatre shows for young children. Informal, lively & amazingly engaging. There will be plenty of colourful puppets & live songs,

ages 0-6 years, visit website for ticket info https://www.chickenshed.org.uk/Event/ tales-from-the-shed-summer-season Sat 10 Jul – Sun 11 Jul Rock n Rolla Weekender @ Byng Road Playing Field High Barnet (EN5) A fun-packed family two-day event, including DJs, Inflatable Laser Tag, Foam Party and more at the pop up fun park, Admission £3 per person, advance booking https://www. thebestof.co.uk/local/barnet-borough/ events/feature/rock-n-rolla-weekender/ Wed 14 Jul – Wed 25 Aug (every Wed) Tatty Bumpkin Yoga @ JW3 (NW3) Join Tatty Bumpkin & Friends for a very special yoga adventure on the JW3 Beach, sessions brought to life with storytelling and music, ages 2-1 11am, £10 per child + £5 per extra sibling, booking essential https://www.jw3. org.uk/whats-on/tatty-bumpkin-yoga Sat 17 Jul Smiley Faces - Out Of Lockdown @ Arts Depot Theatre (N12) Family Friendly Boutique Festival, fun-filled party for everyone, dance & have fun together in a family friendly environment! Tickets from £6.50, 14.30-16.30, for more info & to book https://www.artsdepot.co.uk/family/smileyfaces-–-out-lockdown NOW – 23 Jul Singing and Story Sessions @ London Transport Museum (WC2) Stories about hopping on a bus to the Museum & music making the sounds of London Town.

Sessions include rhythm, dancing & storytelling Every Tue & Fri. Book Tickets https://www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/

Summer Days Out at Celtic Harmony Camp

singing-and-story-sessions NOW – 25 Jul Sunday Shed Workshop @ Chickenshed Theatre (N14) Weekly drop-in workshop sessions in subjects such as Dance, Acting & Art for ages 5-18! Designed for all children & young people. From £8. To Book https:// www.chickenshed.org.uk/Event/sundayshed NOW – 8 Aug The Smartest Giant In Town @ Little Angel Theatre (Studios N1) This heart-warming tale about friendship & helping those in need is brought to life in a musical, puppet-filled adventure, Based on the bestselling book

by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, ages 3-8, Tickets £1.50-13.50, approx. 45 mins long https://littleangeltheatre.com/whatson/the-smartest-giant-in-town/ EDITOR RECOMMENDS Sun 25 Jul Relaxed Early Opening for Families @ British Library (NW1) 09:00-11:00, An event for families with children on the autism spectrum & other sensory needs, take part in a story telling workshop & hands on activities, ages 5-15 years www.bl.uk FREE Tue 27 Jul - Thu 29 Jul The Tale of Peter Rabbit & Benjamin Bunny @ Stephens House (N3) 11:30 & 14:30, Join Peter and Benjamin on their adventures in this enchanting adaptation of the Beatrix Potter classic.. Staged in the Bothy Garden, Tickets £11.50, under 2’s Free, Booking essential http://www. stephenshouseandgardens.com/events Fri 30 Jul – Sun 29 Aug The Grufallo – Live on Stage @ Alexandra Palace Theatre (N22) Stories’magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, ages 3+, to book https://www.alexandrapalace.com/ whats-on/the-gruffalo/# Sat 31 Jul & Sat 21 Aug Family SEND Explorer Events @ London

Transport Museum (WC2) For families with Special Educational Needs, incl Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Enjoy the Museum at a quieter time, free from the general public & with many of the gallery sounds turned off.

Advanced booking is essential online, 31 Jul - 08:30, 21 Aug – 18.15 https://www. ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/family-sendexplorer-events FREE Sat 31 Jul – Sun 8 Aug Festival of Fun @ Chickenshed (N14) Join us for nine days packed full of events, incl performances and play, ages 0-11, visit website for event booking https://www. chickenshed.org.uk/Event/festival-of-funsummer-2021

AUGUST Sun 1 Aug The Wind In The Willows @ Stephens House (N3) 19:00, join Mole, Ratty, Toad & Badger on a wild adventure. Frantically feral fun for older children (5+) & their families, Tickets from £12.50 http://www. stephenshouseandgardens.com/events Wed 4th Aug Mr Stink by David Walliams @ Forty Hall (EN2) 17:00, Join Heartbreak Productions for David Walliams’ best-seller Mr Stink on the outdoor stage. Pack a picnic, grab a chair & dress for the weather, age 7+, tickets from £8 https:// www.fortyhallestate.co.uk/whats-on/mr-stink/ Sat 21 Aug Baby Broadway Family Concert @ Chickenshed (N14) Enjoy well-known musical numbers from your favourite shows and films, expect bubbles, puppetry, dance moves and lots of audience interaction, ages 0-6 years, Tickets £6, Babies under 6 months Free https://www.chickenshed.org.uk/Event/babybroadway-aug21 Sat 21 Aug – Sun 22 Aug StrEATlife @ Alexandra Palace (N22) legendary free street food and craft beer festival, no booking required https://www. alexandrapalace.com/whats-on/streatlife/ FREE

Safe Venue’ with Good to Go pledge. We have measures in place to keep your stay safe such as social distancing, limited visitor numbers (prebookings only), staggered entry slots, one-way quest trail hand sanitisers and regular cleaning.

For an extra special adventure, sleep overnight in the comfort of your...

Journey through time this summer on a Summer Day Out at Celtic Harmony Camp, the Outdoor Prehistory Settlement just north of London. Enjoy a fun packed family day out this summer and experience life as Hunter Gatherers to Stonehenge Builders and Celtic Warriors.

Explore the reconstructed thatched roundhouses located in a beautiful native woodland, watch displays such as Friction Fire lighting and Stone to Iron Age Talks, take part in primitive crafts and practise your READ MORE aim on the Mammoth in the Hunting Zone.

Celtic Harmony Camp is a ‘Covid Familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 13

Holidays

Baby and Toddler Travel Essentials We asked our friends at NapNapUK for their top product picks to make travelling with your little one easier this summer.

Babasac

A multi tog baby sleeping bag with removable inner layers.

Dribblebuster Baby Dribble Bibs

The designer bib for dribbly babies with soft absorbent backing.

SnoozeShade Original

The UK’s favourite baby buggy sun and sleep shade.

14 July/August

TUM TUM Travel Cutlery Set

Toddler travel cutlery with ‘make a picture’ handles & handy travel case.

Snugglebundl

Travel wrap to move baby without waking wherever you are.

NapNap Lullaby Sleep Mat

Award-winning mat with white noise and gentle vibrations.

Totseat

The original portable travel high chair, your washable, squashable lifesaver.

Tidy Tot Cover & Catch Bib

Perfect to keep mealtime mess at bay, with handy travel bag.

Gummee Mini UV Steriliser

Portable, attachable, rechargeable. No water, chemicals or fuss.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Holidays

Fun travel activities for kids

By Jemma Zoe Smith At long last, we’re able to go on holiday with the kids. But before the fun can begin, there’s the journey to deal with. Don’t despair!

These activities will help keep your kids occupied and your sanity intact.

What can you spot?

Get your kids to spot cars/lorries from different countries. Younger children can spot cars or lorries of different colours. Books like the i-Spy series or Usborne Minis are great for primary school children.

They can tick off what they see as they travel, whether that’s wildlife, birds or trees.

‘Person Do Thing’ The challenge is to describe a complex idea (eg ‘glasses’) in just thirty six simple words (eg person, see, thing, use, good, bad, yes, no).

See beginner’s version.

Road trip bingo Download/create bingo cards.

Different ages can work at different difficulty levels; your toddler might need to spot a cow or a caravan, while an older child might need to spot an Eddie Stobart lorry.

Audiobooks If your child suffers from car sickness, audiobooks are an alternative. Give the kids a shortlist to choose from, and let them rule out options so the final choice is something everyone’s happy with.

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Colour with water Colouring books can be difficult in the car but water colouring books let your child colour with a messfree, reusable, water-filled pen. Galt Toys has a good range.

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Two other titles also available *while stock last T&Cs apply

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Magazine July/August 15

Purple Pages After Sch Club / Education

Children’s Parties Sue Walder – Naming Celebrant

Clarssroom

Joyous, bespoke naming ceremonies to celebrate new arrivals to your family. I create unique, memorable celebrations that can include poems, parental promises, the appointment of guideparents, and much more.

Perfect for babies, first birthdays, and to welcome adopted children.

Highly sought after and recommended professional tutoring, experienced in developing and preparing children to learn, lead and succeed all around.

Reading, English, Maths, verbal

Call me to find out more on 0796 9272235. www.sue.walder@ humanistceremonies.org.uk

11+ Mock Test Masters

Coffee and Crayons Café

11plus Limited and Mock Test MastersTM are specialist providers or Information and resources for the 11+ entrance exam.

They demystify and ease the 11+ preparation process for parents and their children.

BIG 11+ events are run in local centres in Finchley and

Coffee and Crayons Café (Ballards Lane, Finchley, N3) is a fantastic café with soft play area available. The café is also available to hire for birthday parties, special occasions and clubs/ classes. www.coffeeandcrayonscafe. com tel 0208 343 1333 info@ coffeeandcrayonscafe.com

Nicky Grace, Textile Artist BASED IN MUSWELL HILL, offers craft parties and workshops for children (and adults) in a calm, natural place which seats up to 14 people round the table.

Children take home the beautiful things they have made so no need for party bags! nicky.grace@hotmail.co.uk https:// thegreenshedn10.com

Barnet.

Also available are: Holiday Learning Clubs, Mock Test Review Sessions, Pass Club - Saturday tuition and Weekly Practice Tests. www. mocktestmasters. com

Les Trois Oursons

Zebra Ceramics (N10) Pottery painting studio, loved by all ages!! Whether it’ s a mug, plate or bowl being painted, we will help all party goers to create something they will treasure forever. Our parties are designed for ages 5 and above. You may also visit us if you are not organising a party, we are open 7 days a week. Tel 0208 442 1314 or visit our website www.zebraceramics.co.uk

(W2) (French/ English/Mandarin) is a small private nursery in Paddington, offering Montessori education and a bilingual environment with an additional introduction to Mandarin program.

We offer extended day care for children aged 10 months to 4 years.

Little Supernovas

(N1) (French/ English/Mandarin) is a small private nursery in the heart of Islington, offering Montessori education and a bilingual environment with an additional introduction to Mandarin program.

We offer extended day care for children aged 18 months to 4 years.

Little Supernovas is an award winning drama and storytelling company.

Providing unique, fun and engaging storytelling and drama sessions for children aged 4-9.

Our 50-60 minute classes include drama games for warm up, followed by an Interactive Action Adventure, and through this they develop dance and drama skills.

The nursery is open from 8am6pm, Monday to Friday for 47 weeks of the year.

020 7099 0452 www. bilingualnurseries. com

Vincent & Frida Art History Lessons for children. Art history lessons for children.

Our engaging fun hands-on interactive lessons will run in small groups online and face-to-face. We provide learning experiences that are inspiring and meaningful.

Email office@

Big Supernovas 6-9 year olds will learn all about acting, devising and performance

Music & Movement

provides outstanding performing arts tuition for 4 – 18 year old’s. Each week students rotate through specialist sessions in Musical Theatre, Comedy & Drama and Film & TV taught by leading industry professionals.

PQA is enrolling for September! Book a free taster session at your local Academy today by visiting www.pqacademy.com

Stage Academy

Colourstrings

The nursery is open from 8am6pm, Monday to Friday for 47 weeks of the year.

020 7099 0452 www. bilingualnurseries. com

Colourstrings – for a brilliant start and long-term success in music!

Develop your child’s musical talent in Kodaly-based music kindergartens and instrumental programmes from six months – 19 years. Call 020 8444 9435 for a trial of 3 discounted lessons or email admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk

Theatre & Performing Arts

is your local independent after school and weekend performing arts school for ages 4 to 18. Building self-confidence, teamwork, ambition and responsibility.

We unlock the potential inside every young person giving them the chance to be the stars of tomorrow.

On-stage or off.

Book a free trial in one of our venues across North London to secure your space for September! stageacademy. co.uk 0800 808 5327 contact@ stageacademy. co.uk

Do you want to bring your baby or toddler to a fun class that has new challenges & learning games every week?

Join us in singing, dancing, baby sign language, yoga, massage, music play, language exercises & more!

We follow the EYFS framework & help your baby reach their developmental milestones.

Book now & meet new friends! www.babycollege. co.uk/haringey Online subscription available.

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The Artz Kidz is a Creative School focusing on ‘The Arts’ as a whole including: Drama, Dance, Art and Singing, for ages 2-12 yrs. Saturday Schools, AfterSchool Clubs, Parties and Holiday Camps. LAUNCH OFFER: 25% off in January for 8-12s 9.15-12am at The Raglan Schools

Enfield. Fully qualified Drama & Primary School Teachers. DBS checked, First Aid Trained & COVID Secure. Contact Helen 07925 581 057. Info@ theartzkidz.com www.

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Mars Montessori in Angel

Ages 18 months – 4 years

Les Trois Oursons in Paddington

Ages 10 months – 4 years

16 July/August

skills. Our classes incorporate action storytelling, music, props, drama, movement and plenty of giggles.

Classes are lead by Hannah and Brooke.

Venue: Archway Methodist Church.

Every Thursday 4pm-5pm Contact us: 07791235247 or hello@ littlesupernovas. com Book now: www. littlesupernovas. com

Pauline Quirke Academy vincentandfrida to register your interest for the academic year 2020/2021. www. vincentandfrida. com

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and non-verbal reasoning, ages 3 ½ -13. Book a trial and free assessment today 0203 991 6110 www.clarssroom. co.uk

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4 Collins Yard, (off Islington Green), LONDON N1 2XU

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feedback and online software to practise. access to all questions.

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs & Classes

Performing Arts prepares your child for the new school year The start of the school year is a great time to consider new activities for your child and the skills learnt in performing arts can be hugely beneficial to children.

These include empathy, listening, problem solving and confidence.

Empathy One challenge children face when they return to school in September is changes to friendship groups.

Empathy is essential to help them react appropriately to their peers and develop their social skills. To portray a character in a play we need to be able to step into their shoes and understand their situation; if a child learns to understand a character in this way, they can apply this skill to everyday life.

READ MORE

OUTSTANDING PERFORMING ARTS TUITION FOR 4 - 18 YEAR-OLDS

ACT, DANCE, SING AND MAKE FILMS! Find your local Academy at pqacademy.com

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FR TASTEEE SESSI R NOWON !

2 Familiesonline.co.uk July/August

Familiesonline.co.uk July/August 17

Health

Improve your child’s mental health Using proven cognitive-behavioural therapy methods along with fun and engaging activities, these peer-reviewed children’s wellbeing activity books, published by Summersdale, have been approved by a children’s mental health practitioner.

Aimed at children ages 7 to 11, because much happens during these years that can impact a child’s sense of self-worth, the books can help

establish how your child is feeling and offer ways to improve their confidence and self-esteem and lower their anxiety levels.

Children are guided through the activities and, with the help of a friendly character, supported to navigate their inner world. These great practical guides are also interspersed with useful tips, inspirational statements and practical information for parents.

For more details an purchase d ,c on the bo lick ok image.

Emotional well-being for new mums

Getting kids to talk feelings

By Marie Louise

By Esther Marshall

Baby brain. Baby blues. Postnatal depression. Add Covid 19 into the mix and it’s not surprising that pregnant women and new mothers are more anxious than ever before. Are you prepared for the effect that pregnancy and new motherhood can have on your emotional well-being?

It’s not always easy to get children to open up.

READ MORE 18 July/August

Author of the Sophie Says children’s book series, Esther Marshall, shares with us her five top tips for helping children feel safe and comfortable enough to start talking about the difficult stuff.

READ MORE Familiesonline.co.uk

Health

Family Couch to 5K (ish)

By Andrew Campbell During the pandemic, lots of people chose running as their ‘exercise of the day’ and experienced a significant boost to their health and wellbeing as a result. The NHS ‘Couch to 5K’ programme allowed many to gradually build up their endurance until they were able to run a five kilometre course.

So, is it time for the whole family to get in on the act? Is it realistic or advisable to expect children to run such a distance?

Government guidelines stipulate that children ages 5 to 18 should accumulate an average of at least sixty minutes of physical activity per day across a week. Such activity can include running. However, it isn’t appropriate to expect children as young as age 5 to run continuously for five kilometres. As, they get older, however, it’s certainly possible to entice your child to extend their ability to run.

Encouragement and fun will be the key to keeping them on board.

Kids love a big occasion, so join a family fun run event or take the whole family to your local parkrun, where children are welcome to join their parents on a five kilometre course through parkland or open space.

Don’t feel you need to run the whole course – starting small is best and you don’t want to push your child beyond what they are comfortable with. Try alternating running and walking and praise their effort.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Alternatively, make your ‘family run’ a scavenger hunt with prizes. Or use the Couch to 5K plan to develop your own week by week plan to work towards running a shorter distance as a family.

Free gift for our subscribers!* Readmio app (worth £49.99) Bring children’s books to life with sound effects triggered by your voice!

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Magazine

APPLY HERE July/August 19

HEALTH

The Worry Cabinet

Download this activity, complete with instructions, to help your child deal with their worries. The Worry Cabinet is an activity for children taken from The Worry Workbook: The Worry Warriors Activity Book published by Summersdale.

The Worry Cabinet

The Wo

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In every pe about lurk rson’s brain is a w and som etimes it orry cabinet. It’s whe can get a Write yo bit over-f re all the things ur ull. that you and the bi worries on the worry labels; th g drawer e lit s are for the things tle drawers are When we for small that you w ev rit w e eryd orry abou down ou with your rw t the mos ay worries, t. the most child on this activ orries, it can mak solutions attention, so that ity, it can help th e them seem less em to wor you can for them scary. If yo tackle th . k em togeth out which wor u work ries er one by one, and need find

Things yo u can’t co ntrol Once yo u you can’ have finished th t control e worry ca - lik a news pr ogramm e thunderstorm binet, try getting e. rid s or som ething yo of the worries See if yo that u have he u ard abou control. O can compile a lis t on t nc fro e m your w you realis easier to or e ry th stop wor rying ab at these things ar drawers of the th out them in e gs ou t of your yo . hands, it u can’t becomes The Wor ry The Wor Cabinet is an ac ry

by Imogen Workbook: Th tivity for children eW ta Harrison , publishe orry Warriors A ken from ct d by Sum mersdale.ivity Book

DOWNLOAD FOR YOUR CHILD NOW!

20 July/August

Familiesonline.co.uk

Tween

Screen time (out?)

By Chris Skeat

Most of us old enough to have tweens in the house, will remember the mantra from our childhoods that ‘watching too much television will make your eyes go square.’ Now the choice of screens and screen activities to be glued to is significantly wider with everything from Fortnite to TikTok competing for attention. But are beneficial for their children’s just how detrimental is this to the development, how do we maintain overall well-being of tweens and a healthy balance? are there any significant lasting effects?

WeareTwixt, offers parenting support for tweens/teens. We asked The British Psychological them for their thoughts.

Society warns that ‘too much screen time can unintentionally READ MORE cause permanent damage to stilldeveloping brains.’ It also advises that when using screens ‘the For What’s On ability to focus, to concentrate… to sense other people’s attitudes and near you, pick up communicate with them, to build a large vocabulary… are harmed.’ your local print

magazine!

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With new research suggesting that four in five parents think gadgets

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Let’s also not forget that it’s valuable for today’s generation to be ‘tech savvy’ when it comes to the workplace.

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However there are some pluses.

Screens can be social, interactive and provide escapism. They can be an opportunity to connect with friends and family members; they can, at times offer a welcome break and respite from the challenges and anxiety of modern day living.

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Magazine July/August 21

Food

Annabel Karmel’s easy toddler meals Enjoy these toddler meal ideas for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, specially curated for Families by baby weaning and toddler food expert, Annabel Karmel.

Apple cinnamon sultana pancakes

Chicken apple balls

Dippy eggs and crumpet fingers

Sweetcorn and tomato rainbow fritters

Courgetti tomato sauce

Cheese and cherry tomato muffins

Mini fish pie

Spinach frittata

Mini cottage pie

22 July/August

Familiesonline.co.uk

Food

Tasty summer lunch ideas

Without too much time spent in the kitchen, you can keep the kids full of yummy, nutritious food. And involve them with the preparation, of course!

Ham and pineapple pizza muffins

Easy veggie fried rice

Salmon and cucumber sandwich

Egg mayonnaise pitta pockets

Scrambled egg, tomato and sweetcorn on toast

Tuna pasta salad

Chicken pasta salad

Beans, mushrooms and tomatoes on toast

Tomato and bacon muffins

Familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 23

Food

Away from home? Simple meal ideas Cooking in a kitchen with more limited facilities than usual or on a BBQ? Find inspiration here.

Rainbow pizzas

Fish finger butty with lemony mayo

Tuna rice salad

Anytime eggs & potatoes

Campfire doughnuts

Cowboy chicken & bean stew

Traffic light chicken shish kebabs

Campfire nachos

Marshmallow & strawberry kebabs

24 July/August

Familiesonline.co.uk

Food

DIY coconut, vanilla and blueberry yogurt ice lollies Emily Leary, multi-award-winning food, lifestyle and parenting writer, presenter and photographer and author of A Mummy Too shares her yummy fruit and yogurt lolly recipe - the perfect healthy summer cooler!

Equipment Chopping board * Kitchen knife * Weighing scales * Jug blender * Four lolly moulds with sticks * Spoon

Prep Time: 15 mins Freezing time: 8 hrs Servings: 4

Step 1

Pulse the blueberries, vanilla yogurt and coconut milk in blender.

Step 2

Continue pulsing until ‘smashed’ but not completely blended.

Step 3

Carefully spoon the yogurt mix into four lolly moulds.

Ingredients

90g blueberries 100ml coconut milk 100g vanilla yogurt

Step 4

Place a lolly stick into each cup. Freeze for a minimum of 8 hours.

Families Special Offer!

50% discount on RocketLearn summer school RocketLearn is holding a two week online Summer School for children ages 7 to 13. Aimed at keeping children learning over the Summer in a light, fun manner, the online sessions, accessible whenever, will cover maths, English, daily PE challenges and well-being sessions. The academic enrichment sessions will include challenges in coding, esports and teamwork among others. Maths sessions have three levels for different age groups, focusing on topics covered throughout the year in school, whilst English will be about fostering a love of reading – complete with suggested reading lists for children. The School is priced £50 for two weeks. Families readers can register for a 50% discount if they enter the code FAMILIES2021 HERE. Familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 25

Family Life

Talking about racial stereotypes

By Bilkis Miah With Black Lives Matter still on everyone’s minds, many questions have come to the fore about how we can challenge racial stereotypes and help our children thrive, regardless of their race. As parents and communities become more reflective, here are some tips to help you and your little one identify and talk about race.

How do children learn racial bias?

Children learn about racial bias from a young age, often from their surroundings and the people they come into contact with. This could be at school or at home.

As early as 6 months, a baby’s brain can notice race-based differences.

Between ages 2 to 4, children can begin to internalise racial bias.

This is an important time to work to unpick these beliefs.

So what can I do?

Plenty! Including talking to your children about race and the existence of racial bias, confronting your own bias and encouraging kids to challenge the stereotypes and bias they see. You can also give your children access to lots of different types of role models and expose them to many people from different cultures from a young age.

READ MORE

By age 12, many children become set in their beliefs and embedded in their views about racial stereotypes.

Black

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Based on Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman Music and lyrics by Howard Blake

White

Magazine

“Sheer theatrical magic. Go see The Snowman and melt”

IT’S FREE!

The Times

Black overprint Magazine 26 July/August

BLE NOW £20 EARLY BIRD TICKET AVAILA 100c 75m 0y 0k

20 Nov 2021 - 2 Jan 2022

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Family Life

Is a vegan diet ‘safe’ for children?

Managing your child’s moods

By Louise Palmer-Masterton

By Louise Baty

When it comes to a child’s diet, balanced nutrition is important.

It’s obvious that fifteen packets of beef and onion crisps for dinner means you’ve lost your way. But how do you know what constitutes a balanced plantbased diet for your family?

Dreaming of lazy beach days?

Picnics in the sunshine? You’re not alone. It’s understandable to hold high hopes for this particular summer. But what if family days out are marred by the darkening of your child’s mood or their public outbursts of emotion? What can you do?

READ MORE

READ MORE

Why doesn’t my ex want to see our children?

While supporting parents with legal aspects of their divorce and separation, Only Mums & Dads are contacted regularly by parents concerned that their ex-partner does not want to be involved with their children. This concern is usually accompanied by much emotion and sadness.

So how can this be handled?

READ MORE Familiesonline.co.uk

Orchard Toys Game Giveaway!

6 bundles available, worth £27.80 each 3 games per bundle

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Magazine July/August 27

North Bridge House

New for er: Septemb Open day fairs

Subject stalls, school tours, taster activities and talks from the Senior Leadership Team. Book now at northbridgehouse.com/open NURSERY & PRE-PREP

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Weekday open events and guided tours available online. Book your visit or call 020 7428 1520 to find out more.

28 July/August

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Education

The Force Of Nature How one north London nursery and pre-prep is using an outdoor curriculum to accelerate academic and personal growth in the early years of education.

The theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week and central to the UK Parliament’s new Environment Bill, nature is top of the agenda for 2021.

Ahead of the trend, North Bridge House Nursery & Pre-Prep West Hampstead opened its doors last September to provide a unique Early Years education, centred entirely around continuation of the curriculum outdoors.

With sheltered teaching and outdoor play space, teachers can collapse the timetable and take any lesson outside at any given time. And with a vegetable garden, mud kitchen, timetabled Forest School and school pets, children connect with nature as part of their everyday life.

While access to nature has been directly linked to improved mental and physical health in the early years, one in five (21%) London households has no access to a garden (National Office for Statistics, May 2020). North Bridge House Nursery & Pre-Prep West Hampstead aims to create a greener future for children, Familiesonline.co.uk

providing a home from home that transforms their childhood experience when it matters most.

“The early years are fundamental to a child’s academic and personal development and to their future successes. Nature and outdoor learning provide the building blocks for educational achievement, developing all of creative, communication and language, maths and problemsolving skills,” says Head of School Eilish Sleator.

But for NBH Nursery & Pre-Prep West Hampstead, the force of nature promotes more than just the school’s pursuit for academic excellence, developing children socially, emotionally and physically in a society rife with childhood mental health and obesity concerns.

With 50% of mental health problems established by age 14 (mentalhealth.org.uk), Head of School Eilish aims to promote wellbeing from the outset of children’s education...

READ MORE July/August 29

Summer Learning

Back to school Get organised now!

Don’t end the summer holidays with a frantic last-minute rush!

Manage a successful and stressfree return to the classroom. Get organised early.

Doctors/Dentist/ Optician Get done at beginning of holidays.

Haircut Phone early to get an appointment close to start of term.

School shoes Visit a shoe fitter. Shop before the last minute rush.

Uniforms & sports kit Do the summer sales.

Check out second hand options or unbranded supermarket alternatives.

Labelling Label everything.

Choose your preferred labels and start early to avoid late nights!

Stationery Check out supermarket kits. Buy plenty of spares!

Book after school care All schools are required to provide access to wraparound childcare but it’s popular, so book early.

After school activities Take advantage of early bird/free taster sessions.

SUMMER SCHOOL 2021 Learning & Playtime Camp for ages 3½ to 13 Years Old MONDAY 26TH JULY– FRIDAY 13TH AUGUST 9AM-1PM | WEEKDAYS

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Accelerated Reading for children 3½ onwards Maths & English Exam Preparation for 4+, 5+, 7+ & 11+ GL, CEM and Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning Optional afternoon playtime scheme

VISIT ON OPEN DAYS St Andrew’s Southgate Primary School , 297 Chase Road, London N14 6JA Available every Saturday throughout June and on 3rd & 10th July 9:30AM & 11:30AM Childcare Vouchers Accepted

CALL NOW ON 020 3991 6110 CLARSSROOM.CO.UK/SUMMERSCHOOL

30 July/August

@CLARSSROOM

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Summer Learning

Fun educational apps for all ages Make screen time learning time with our top picks.

Khan Academy

Fish School

Think!Think!

Free app with high quality/creative early learning activities.

Ages 2-7.

Learn basic ABCs & 123s with fun fish pals.

Ages 3+.

Engaging mini game.

Develops lateral thinking and spatial reasoning. Ages 7+.

LEGO DUPLO World

DIY.org

Teach your monster to read

Free-play and goaloriented mini games.

Ages 2-5.

Virtual treasure trove of craft, activity and practical activities.

Ages 5+.

Engaging way for kids to learn phonics and reading. Ages 4+.

ScratchJr

The Human Body

Marvel Hero Tales

Introduces coding with interactive stories and games. Ages 5-7.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Brilliant interactive app about the human body.

Ages 7+.

Beat the villains & learn language skills.

Ages 7-11.

July/August 31

Summer Learning

Audiobooks for family road trips Great audio entertainment for the whole family to while away the traffic jams!

Ladybird Classics: The Complete Audio Collection Ages 3+.

10 hours 45 mins.

Matilda

Ages 7+.

4 hours 18 mins.

The World’s Worst Teachers Ages 8+.

4 hours 6 mins.

32 July/August

Finn Family Moomintroll

Ages 5+.

3 hours 33 mins.

Winnie-the-Pooh: The Complete BBC Collection Ages 4+.

3 hours 42 mins.

The Complete Chronicles of Narnia

How to Train Your Dragon

His Dark Materials: Northern Lights

Wolf Boy Book 1

Ages 7+.

15 hours 7 mins.

Ages 9+.

10 hours 45 mins.

Ages 7+.

3 hours 29 mins.

Ages 9+.

6 hours 25 mins.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Summer Learning

Seven steps to a book-filled summer Start small. For reluctant readers, start with magazines, comics or graphic novels.

Let them choose. Children need to feel they are in charge of selection – as long as it’s age-appropriate.

Join the Summer Reading Challenge. Your child will need to read six or more books during the holidays. Rewards include stickers and small prizes.

Audiobooks improve literacy skills and whet appetites for more stories.

Summer Book Club. Encourage your child to start a Book Club with friends. Then host a playdate with snacks and chats about their

favourite/least favourite parts.

Keep it handy. Wherever you go this summer make sure you have reading material to hand.

Make it a routine. Try to schedule regular daily ‘downtime’ for reading.

Pick up a book at the same time as your child, so you can be a reading role model.

Children’s books with sound effects App from Readmio Watch how it works!

Familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 33

Summer Learning

Free printable activity sheets for all ages

My Daddies! colouring sheets

Tad activity sheets

Hungry Caterpillar activity sheets

Ladybird bumper activity pack

Pirate Stew activity pack

Building a Home activity sheets

50 Things to do before you’re 11 ¾ activity pack

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Hard Luck activity sheets

Swallows & Amazon activity sheets

34 July/August

Familiesonline.co.uk

Summer Learning

Make ‘n’ do learning activities for under 5s Keep your little ones busy and engaged all summer long.

Bottle bowling

Enormous crocodile word game

Water boats

Touch and feel board

Ocean life zip lock sensory bag

Homemade potato stamps

Three Little Pigs masks

Farm tuff tray

DIY toilet roll poppers

Familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 35

BOREDOM BUSTERS

Make ‘n’ do learning projects for primary school kids Keep ‘em busy on those dull or rainy days this summer.

Recycled marble run

Water rocket

Water balloon piñata

Tin can stilts

Fruit & vegetable art

Vinegar volcano

DIY articulated hand

Rusty Rivets robot

DIY Luna Love Lovegood glasses

36 July/August

Familiesonline.co.uk