Families North London July/August 22 Print

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IN THIS ISSUE WIN! A Little Hotdog Watson hat Eco holiday products Summer childcare options SIX pages of Summer What’s On

Issue 155 July/August 2022 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk 1

BROOMFIELD SCHOOL

A LOCAL SCHOOL FOR OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

The Governors are delighted to announce the appointment of a new Headteacher Ms Adele Christofi from September 2022

OPEN EVENING SCHOOL TOUR & COFFEE WITH THE HEAD A small school with a family feel www.broomfield.enfield.sch.uk

Tuesday 4th October Various dates in September & October Please see school website for details

11-16 years

Entrance on both Wilmer Way & Powys Lane @broomfield_sch

Tea in the sunshine, brass band playing, historic vehicles from Whitewebbs Transport Museum and a Jubilee walkway with painted stones, donated by Barkers Landscapes. “This will be an event our children will never forget!” - Jonquil Izard- Headteacher, Forty Hill School

Welcome

There’s so much to look forward to this summer It seems as though the Jubilee has launched a summer full of events with everyone making up for lost time - but while busy family days out are fun, and sometimes a tonic, I hope not all lessons of lockdown will be forgotten.

As our article about Make-Do Play reminds us, making time for unstructured play is not only great for developing our children’s imaginations and resourcefulness, I believe it’s vital for wellbeing too. Having time to noodle about is important for our children to process all that they’ve seen and done.

So, if you have days where not much is going on, or you need to work, don’t feel guilty, Recognise that those days have value too. And when you’re

ready to rock ‘n’ roll, check out our What’s On - and remember, there are lots of great offers, recipes and ideas for low-cost summer fun in the interactive digital version of our magazine.

Sign up to receive every issue straight to your inbox at families.mag.co.uk/go

Contents July August 2022 Issue 155

5 How to create open communication

10 Piecing together summer childcare

6 Juggling school holidays and homeworking

10 WIN! The cutest Little Hotdog Watson hat

7 It’s Plastic-Free July!

How to stay green on holiday

12 Make-Do Play: re-thinking playtime

8 Could you be a foster carer? Case study

13 WIN! Nature puzzle 13 SIX pages of What’s On! 19 Purple Pages classifieds

Overnight Stays Relax with Dinner, Evening Activities & Breakfast

Amanda

Follow us on social media and stay up to date, informed and entertained.

Tweet us on Find us on @familiesnorthlondon @FamiliesNthLon

Include us on @familiesnorthlondon

Families North London Magazine Editor: Amanda T: 07359 133954

Greenley E: editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk

Families North London 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 content of Famileis North London are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photogrpahic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent from Families North London. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families North London, our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing can not be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. familiesonline.co.uk

It was great - very comfortable and a great way to get a feel for Celtic life. Jack 2021

Escape to Prehistory at

celticharmony.org 3

News & Views Sleep problems affect reading New research published in the British Journal of Educational Psychology suggests that sleep problems may negatively affect children’s reading ability.

The study found children whose parents reported increased sleep-disordered breathing, daytime sleepiness and a short time for their children to fall asleep had poorer performance on reading tasks.

“Being a good reader is a strong predictor of academic success and improved life outcomes, so we recommend screening children with sleep problems for reading difficulties and children with reading difficulties for sleep problems,” said co-author Anna Joyce, PhD, MSc, of Regent’s University London.

Calls for England smack ban England should consider following Scotland and Wales in banning the smacking of children, the Children’s Commissioner has said.

Dame Rachel de Souza has signalled her support for changing the law.

Wales made any corporal punishment, including smacking, hitting, slapping and shaking, illegal in March, while Scotland banned smacking in November 2020.

A survey commissioned by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children found more than two thirds of adults in England believe it is wrong for parents or carers to physically punish their child, with 58 per cent thinking it was already illegal.

A royal treat for The Queen

Her Majesty the Queen is in for a royal treat with a gift from the children of North London.

Children across Enfield wrote poems for a book in a competition run by Edmonton Green Shopping Centre to allow local children to play their part in history and to create a wonderful gift for the Queen. Entrants have been presented with their own copy of the book.

“I felt really honoured to be part Noor, 7, signs Queen’s letter of the celebrations to mark our wonderful Queen’s Platinum Jubilee,” said Elliot of West Grove Primary School, Southgate. Seven of children at the school have had their work published and a letter from the children was sent to the Queen with the book.

Children’s Poetry for Her Majesty costs £5.99 from Amazon. Proceeds will go to local charity Time to Help. Find it at amzn.to/3O8LQJh

The Grove

Nursery and Preschool Space to Explore and Grow

Specialist providers of education and childcare for 0-5 year olds The Grove 91 Shepperton Road Islington London N1 3DF Tel: 02072264037 www.thegrovenursery.co.uk

Young poets: pupils from West Grove Primary are in the book

Go, Go Gadget readers This Summer’s Reading Challenge is called Gadgeteers and is themed on science. It encourages children age 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.

The challenge launches in libraries on July 9.

More info: www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk Find events in your local libraries: www.barnet.gov.uk/libraries/library-events www.camden.gov.uk/childrens-activities-suggestions

www.haringey.gov.uk/whatson www.enfield.gov.uk/services/libraries/information-for-parents For activities in Haringey parks go to bit.ly/HarParks

Calling all young Scientists! www.bilingualnurseries.com

Mars Montessori in Angel

Ages 18 months – 4 years

Les Trois Oursons in Paddington

Ages 10 months – 4 years

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Families North London

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

Lower Ground Floor, 170 Gloucester Terrace, LONDON W2 6HS

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 3926 1207 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Education

Lend a teaching ear How can we help our children, of all ages, to develop great communication habits? It all starts with talking - and listening

Listening and talking effectively are invaluable life skills we can impart by being effective role models.

Open communication takes work and practice. It will not always be perfect. What’s important is making the effort to communicate with our children. The result will be a closer, more honest, open and positive family relationship.

Listening: the key to effective communication Make and maintain eye contact. Watch your child’s facial expressions and body language. Listening isn’t just about hearing words, but also about trying to understand what might be behind those words.

Eliminate distractions. Listening with undivided attention is essential. If you are unable to do so, then make sure your child knows when you will be free to give them that time.

Listen without interrupting. Offer encouragement with a smile or touch. Interruption can break a train of thought so try to let your child finish before adding your own words of advice or wisdom.

Ask open ended questions and not too many. Build on what your child is saying and show your interest with phrases like “Tell me more about ...”, “Really!” and “Go on ...”.

Validate. Repeat and rephrase what your child has said from time to time. This lets your child know you’re listening and helps you check what your child is saying.

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

By Lisa Wander & Catherine Loble, co-founders of Emparenting (www. emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with insights, skills and tools to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.

Hendon Highgate Islington Muswell Hill Stoke Newington Rolling bookings... apply now to start soon!

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5

Family life

Juggling school holidays and homeworking School holidays can be challenging. Even with childcare and holiday clubs there are days when you have to meet deadlines while acting as a snack vending machine or having to “look at me!” Here are a few tips.

Prepare in advance Realistically, you probably won’t get as much done on the days your children are home. Accepting this can immediately lessen the stress and frustration. If you have big projects or deadlines looming, try to get the bulk of the work out of the way so you’re left with smaller tasks.

Manage clients expectations by letting them know you won’t be available for a big order or that deadlines will need to be extended to allow for shorter working days. Keep boundaries by highlighting reduced office hours and using automated out of office email responses.

Achieve Arts Stage and Screen Skills Summer School UNLOCK YOUR INNER CREATIVITY WITH THE ACHIEVE ARTS TEAM THIS SUMMER! DURING A FIVE DAY ACTION PACKED COURSE, YOUR CHILD WILL LEARN FROM INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS FROM THE WORLD OF TELEVISION AND LONDON’S WEST END. THEY WILL JUMP INTO THE WORLD OF PUPPETRY, SCRIPTWRITING, VOICEOVER ANIMATION , SHAKESPEARE AND ENJOY SPECIAL GUEST WORKSHOPS FROM THE TOP MUSICALS IN TOWN. IT’S GOING TO BE A WEEK NOT TO BE MISSED!

Book your child’s place today at www.achievearts.co.uk

Sibling Discount Available Spaces are limited

Fill their cup It can be hard to focus with a child clamouring for attention. But by giving your child enough quality time, they are often more accepting when you need to step away to work. I often find when I am very engaged with my children for a short time, they are happy to then play alone for a while. Getting them set up with a game or with Lego building are great ways to give them your time and then allow you to step away.

*(STUDENTS WILL BE DIVIDED INTO SEPARATE STUDIOS ACCORDING TO AGE GROUPS) **(STUDENTS ARE TO PROVIDE THEIR OWN NUT FREE PACKED LUNCH)

25TH 29TH JULY _

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15TH 19TH AUGUST _

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CAPE ADVENTURE STUDIOS, 85 CROUCH HILL, N89EG

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

Communication is key Communicate with your team. Be transparent about your situation and capacity. Explore flexible working options. Setting boundaries is important when you are trying to work with other family members around. Communicating to children

Stagecoach Highgate

CHILDCARE VOUCHERS ACCEPTED

SUMMER CAMP LATINO MUSICALS

This summer, Stagecoach Highgate brings you a fun filled week performing arts workshop for children. Come and join in the fun with singing, drama and dancing with have lots of fun.

25TH- 29TH JULY

Age: 6 - 14 year olds Time: Mon - Fri, 10.00am - 4.00pm Performance: Fri 4.00pm Cost: £200 (£150 for siblings) Venue: St Michael’s C of E Primary School, N6 4BG ENROL NOW FOR SEPTEMBER TERM! Ages 4-16yrs

stagecoach.co.uk/highgate 07956 436028

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Families North London

and partners when you are and are not available can prevent misunderstandings or resentment. Younger children hear the word “no” a lot, so a more positive way of asking them to be patient is to give them something to look forward to after you’ve finished your work - a collage you’ll make together or a den you’ll build.

Ask for help Don’t forget or be afraid to ask for help. We can often feel that we have failed in some way if we don’t manage everything. However, asking for help is a sensible way to relieve stress and maintain some balance.

Older children and other family members may be able to help with housework or babysitting. You could even organise a swap with a fellow working parent, allowing you each to work on your child-free days.

Use your pockets of time If you can organise your days as you need, allocate tasks according to the different lengths of time you have available. During nap time, TV time or minutes when the kids are playing a game, catch up on emails and admin. Leave longer tasks for longer pockets of time. It can be helpful to have a list of quick jobs you can do in a spare few minutes.

Louise Goss is a journalist and the Founder of The Homeworker magazine (www.thehomeworker.com) which supports people who work from home and remotely.

Beauty spots Take nature’s pulse in the Big Butterfly Count - a UK-wide survey to help the Butterfly Conservation charity assess the health of the environment. Butterflies play a vital part in the ecosystem as pollinators and components of the food chain.

Taking part is easy. Between July 15 and August 7, take 15 minutes to count the butterflies you spot and submit sightings online or via a free app. There’s also a free downloadable butterfly chart. www.bigbutterflycount.org

Family life

Eco Summer... ...starts with plastic-free July We all like to do our bit for the planet but, when it comes to holidays, it’s easy for good intentions to fall by the wayside. We asked Vicki Bradley from Tested by Tots for ideas on some easy, eco-friendly holiday products. She even came up with some offers.

Beeswax wraps A natural alternative to clingfilm. Simply wrap sandwiches or leftovers, sealing with the warmth of your hands.

Plastic-free, washable and reusable for up to six years.

Use TOTS15 for 15% off. www.beeswaxwraps.co.uk Shampoo bars Ditch weighty plastic bottles and save space by packing shampoo and conditioner bars. Mini bars from Ethique are perfect for holidays and just as effective as the runny stuff! Trial sizes are available. bit.ly/EthiqueMiniShampoo Reef-friendly sunscreen Scientists have recently discovered that oxybenzone and octinoxate could be damaging ocean life. Nivea has a

familiesonline.co.uk

biodegradale spray, compliant with the Hawaii Reef Bill. bit. ly/ReefFriendlySunscreen Sustainable toys Green Toys have a great range for babies upwards, covering bath time, pretend play, outdoors - and the beach, made from recycled materials and vigorously safety tested for happy times in the sand. Use 10GREENTOYS22 for 10% off. bit.ly/ EcoFriendlyGreenToys Beachwear Style out the holiday in Frugi swimwear and clothing.

Beautifully designed to be bright and colourful plus allorganic, Frugi only uses GOTS certified organic cotton and its outerwear is made from recycled materials. Available in baby to adult sizes. bit.ly/ Frugibeachwear Tested by Tots checks out and recommends only products and services that are genuinely childfriendly. For hints and tips on holidaying with children, including holiday packing checklists, go to www.testedbytots.com.

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Make 2022 the year you foster!

Jennifer’s story!

Jennifer and her Husband have fostered for Barnet since 2018. Here she reflects on how fostering has transformed her family’s outlook on life and improved the prospects of her foster daughter Ella.

Fostering in our home For me, fostering feels the same as caring for my own children, Ella is part of the family and is treated no different. Up for school, home for teatime, homework, and bed whilst our weekends are filled with fun activities.

Fostering has been positive for all our family. My girls have learnt to share their home, their family and our love. It has been nice giving back. Although Ella may be due to move onto independent living when she turns 18, I would like us to remain a ‘family’ beyond her time in foster care with us.

What it takes to Foster Why I chose to foster I feel blessed to be healthy and to have had a lovely family and wanted to give other children the same opportunity. I had also wanted to foster for many years before, but my husband wasn’t quite sure at the time, and we needed both of us to be on board and on the same page.

I started out applying to be a short-term carer but have since taken on caring for a girl called Ella who is with us long term now, we felt our family would be a perfect match for her. She is in year 10 and will still be with us when she goes off to university.

Fostering takes caring personalities, especially people who would like to find a home for every child. There is never going to be a right time so would encourage people to just do it now. You can help Barnet provide a home for every child.

It definitely is a rewarding, purposeful journey.

Case study *names have been changed for confidentiality.

Our offer to you:

• 24/7 support • Extensive training • Dedicated Earn up to social worker £581 • Peer support per week Join our fostering community today and see how you can change a child’s life: Email: fostering@barnet.gov.uk www.BARNET.GOV.UK/ FOSTERING • 020 8359 6274

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Families North London

Being a foster carer is humbling and rewarding as you can really make a difference to a young person’s life.

Wellbeing

Performing develops key skills for life Whether it’s diving into their dressing up box or stepping on stage, performing is important to children and young people and it teaches skills that can be used in everyday life.

Creativity Imaginative and make-believe play can enable a child’s social and emotional development, helping them to form new ideas and develop resourcefulness.

Problem solving The ability to solve problems creatively within the safety of a performing arts environment can be transferred to everyday life. If children feel comfortable exploring and dealing with problems in a non-linear way, it makes them more confident overall.

Empathy Performance is a classic form of storytelling, not only for entertainment but for sharing tales and ideas. Performing in character can help children appreciate another person’s point of view. To

Keying in to life skills: PQA students shine on stage accurately portray a character, we need to step into their shoes, understand their situation. If a child understands a character in this way, they can apply this to everyday life, helping them react to friends and adults and develop social skills.

Listening The ability to listen is an important skill, especially when a child is in a new setting with new routines and expectations.

During performing arts classes children take direction from teachers and peers.

This encourages them to be receptive to others’ ideas and work collaboratively.

Confidence Building Some children are never happier than when putting on a show for their family and friends, but for some standing up in

front of an audience can be daunting.

Performing arts are hugely beneficial to children’s confidence levels. Learning new skills, rehearsing, and performing in a safe space, with the support of expert teachers and encouragement of their peers, can prepare children to deal with situations in which they feel anxious.

At the Pauline Quirke Academy we believe that our three core modules, Musical Theatre, Comedy & Drama and Film & Television, offer our students the very best mix of both performance based and technical training as well as providing them with skills for life to help them grow into well-rounded individuals.

Would you like to host and teach English to a foreign student in your home?

We are currently recruiting hosts who can offer a spare bedroom, three meals per day and the required lessons and activities.

You choose who to host and when to host!

Earn up to £1,000 per week.

Get in touch to find out more: influentme.com be@influentme.com

World Class Care Hadley Wood Hospital is a dynamic private healthcare facility in the heart of Barnet.

As part of the Royal Free London – Private Patients Unit, at Hadley Wood Hospital we offer you access to London’s expert consultants in a discreet, tranquil setting. We provide competitively priced diagnostics, imaging and surgery, all under one roof.

T: 020 4502 8305 E: rf-tr.privateenquiries@nhs.net W: royalfreehadleywood.com @royalfreelondonppu

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9

Summer Time

Here comes the holiday childcare jigsaw w For many parents, the long summer holidays can cause a massive childcare headache.

An enormous amount of juggling, “piecing it together” and cost may be involved. If you know you’re facing the school holiday puzzle soon, here are some of the pieces that you might be able to fit together in your jigsaw.

Share the care Family members, typically grandparents, are often more than happy to share the childcare burden but if you don’t have family close by, teaming up with other parents and taking turns to care is a great way to spread the load. But it requires forward planning - so get in now. Try setting up a summer childcare WhatsApp group with the parents of your child’s friends.

Private nursery Nurseries attached to schools and pre-schools usually follow school term dates but many private nurseries, such as The Grove, Islington, continue as normal throughout the summer.

Some private nurseries will take on some younger children just for the summer holidays. The Grove (https://thegrovenursery. co.uk) opens all year, Monday to Friday 8am-6.30pm, for children from 4 months to 5 years, with five rooms allowing for age-specific activities and equipment, a sensory room and soft play area, as well as offering yoga, Diddidance, Sports

WIN!

Little Hotdog Watson Hats

Let the sun shine

Get your hands on a stylish kids hat that has become an Instagram hit!

Little Hotdog Watson hats keep kids - and adults cool and covered with their fun designs. The brand is a growing British success story with exclusive designs now stocked in Selfridges.

Each hat is made from high-quality cotton, fully machine washable and incorporates smart design technology to protect young explorers from the Sun, keep away bugs and the fabric adapts to keep your child’s head the perfect temperature. Available in three styles: the Cub, the Adventurer and Classic Baseball, see the range at littlehotdogwatson.com from £20. Families North London has teamed up with Little Hotdog Watson to give five lucky readers the chance to win one of these cuties.

For a chance to win one, go to bit.ly/ compsFNL Competition closes July 31. See T+Cs at bit.ly/ HotdogTCs

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Families North London

School, music, Spanish and French and Forest School. Contact private nurseries now to enquire.

Nanny share A nanny share or “home childcarer” can let families share the costs and responsibilities of employing a nanny to look after your children in your home. Look out for one registered with ANA (Association of Nanny Agencies) or the British Au Pair Agencies Association (Bapaa).

Holiday camps or workshops Run by private providers, these can be multi-activity day camps focusing on a variety of sport and/or creative activities, such as Future In Your House which has a varied and imaginative programme aimed a giving children skills as well as being fun-filled. It offers an earlybird discount for booking before July 17. https://futureinyourhouse.co.uk Single-activity camps can be great for those with a passion for a particular sport or activity. Performing arts camps broaden horizons and skills. Achieve Arts, one of the top LAMDA Speech and Drama Schools in North London, has created an action-packed course, where children will learn from industry professionals from TV and London’s West End. There is puppetry, scriptwriting, voiceover animation, Shakespeare and special guest workshops from the top musicals in town. https://achievearts.co.uk Perform has Peter Pan summer courses throughout July and August. www.perform.org.uk/peter pan Stage Academy has Wizard of Oz, 4-7s, and Week In The West End, 8+, workshops. https://stageacademy.co.uk Stagecoach Highgate is exploring Latin American with Encanto & Coco, 6-11s, and West Side Story and In The Heights, 11+. www.stagecoach.co.uk/highgate See the flipside with Circus School. The National Centre for Circus Arts Summer School offers flying trapeze, silks, acrobatics, balancing, juggling and more, with a class for 8-11 years, and beginner or intermediate classes for 12-18 years.

From July 26-29. Prices from £280. www.nationalcircus.org. uk/summer-schools-2022 info@nationalcircus.org.uk Holiday playschemes Playschemes are usually for children of primary school age.

Run by schools, councils, youth clubs and community groups, they provide a range of activities and typically cost around £30 a day although this can vary widely, with subsided prices offered for low-income households.

Whatever you choose, the secret to getting the provision you want is to book quickly as places go fast.

Summer Time

Celtic Games are here

Science fun-damentals

If science and maths figure highly in your child’s passions, check out the Royal Institution’s summer workshops.

There are age-specific workshops for 7 to 18 years and with titles such as Crash Testing, Hide & Seek in Space, and Cosmetic Chemistry, there’s something for all. www.rigb.org

Celebrate play on Playday

Warriors, prepare to face the Games - Celtic-style Journey through time on a day out at the Celtic Games.

Embark on a quest in beautiful native woodland and explore reconstructed roundhouses at Celtic Harmony Camp, Brickendon, from July 23 to Aug 7. Hunt the mammoth, build a den, listen to the warriors’ talks and stories, see their weapons and dress as a warrior with your own torc necklace and get your face painted, ready for the fire procession at the end of the day.

For an extra special adventure, stay overnight in your own roundhouse - with home comforts! Explore the woods at night on a bat walk before roasting marshmallows and storytelling round the fire. Gather family or friends and enjoy the camp to yourselves when you book all six roundhouses!

Exclusive this summer, stay longer on a 3-day 2-night break on a Prehistory Family Adventure from August 9 to 20 with workshops from Archery to Outdoor Cooking led by experienced educators. Limited spaces.

Playday is the national day for play, with thousands of families playing outside at events across the UK, and will take place this year on August 3. As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives.

You can hold and register your own Playday event or find one close to you by visiting www.playday.org.uk

JOIN US THIS SUMMER HOLIDAY FOR AN ACTION-PACKED MONTH OF FUN AND FRIENDSHIP Multi-Activity Camp for Ages 4 to 13 Monday 26th July – Friday 19th August 2022 St Andrews CE Primary School Southgate, 297 Chase Road N14 6JA

Indoor & Outdoor Games

From £32/day*

Group Activities

Singing, Drama & Dance

Arts & Crafts

Team Sports

To book a day, a week, or the entire 4 weeks: CALL NOW ON 020 4534 3939 FUTUREINYOURHOUSE.CO.UK

*Standard daily rate for one week booking. To secure rate, book by Sunday 17th July 2022.

www.celticharmony.org

Circus Arts for Everyone Summer Schools Experience Days Birthday Parties Recreational Courses Corporate Workshops and much more!

Visit nationalcircus.org.uk

Coronet St. London N1 6HD

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#NationalCircus

11

Early years

Make-Do believe in better play

Photos by North London-based photographer Jenny Ellen, Mapie-Eye Photography. See more of her work at www.magpieeyekids.com magpie.eye.photography@gmail.com

A brush with treasure-hunting: this little on discovers there’s a world of wonder under our feet

Something very special is happening in a new community garden in Crouch Hill.

Play has been given back to the children.

“We often offer messy play – paint or slime, shaving foam, a mud kitchen,” says Kerri Burton, one of the founders of Make-Do Play. “There’s definitely no rules about not mixing the paint colours here and more often than not most of the paint ends up on the children. It’s a relief for many parents who want to embrace this sort of play but find doing it at home is not manageable.”

At Make-Do Play, children are given freedom to explore the space in Tollyrise Happiness Garden, in the grounds of St Mary’s Church Hornsey Rise. “We fill it with open-ended activities and plenty of loose parts,” said Kerri.

Loose parts are objects which have lots of potential for play but aren’t necessarily designed as toys. They can be played with in a multitude of ways, depending on what the child’s imagination needs.

“It really is the simple things,” she adds.

“Plastic storage boxes, tyres and old bits of shelving become bridges and obstacle courses. The sides of an old cot become a climbing frame.”

Strings of plastic bottles and ribbons hang from a tree and children delight in running through them and watching them blowing in the wind.

“We do woodwork with real tools and encourage even the youngest to have a go with the hammer or saw because we know children are more capable than we might expect. Many parents tell us that they have never seen their child play so independently or imaginatively before.”

Activities are not directed, explains Kerri, a playworker for 20 years. “Children are the experts in their own play and our aim is to create an inclusive, non-judgemental space where families feel comfortable to be themselves and let their children do what they like without unnecessary adult interference.

“We are open to all ages because we know magical things happen when children play in mixed age groups, and we are completely free to everyone because we know that play is a right, not a privilege.”

You tube? Me tube: children explore their way 12

Families North London

Jenny Ellen

Step out: we never tyre of a bridge Sessions are every other Thursday 10.30am-1.30pm, including school holidays. The project is crowdfunding to continue its commitment to free access. make-do-play.weebly.com

Stripe me pink: there’s more to paint than how it looks

Whats On

WHAT’S ON!

To have your event listed on these pages email the details to editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk Disclaimer: We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out. has stolen a hat. And two turtles have found a hat. Based on Jon Klassen’s classic books. 3-6s.

Various times/prices. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2DN Every Friday www.littleangeltheatre.com Planet Play Until July 15. Magical, interactive July 2 songs, music and movement for Race of the Pirates 0-3s. 10am & 11.30am. Adults £7.50, children & babies, free, must Warm and playful new Haringey Shed musical with Children’s book. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. Theatre and Shed Moves. 12noon www.chickenshed.org.uk & 2pm. Pay what you can, £5 sugg.

Bernie Grant Arts Centre, Town Every Saturday Hall Approach Road, N15 4RX. Tales from the Shed www.berniegrantcentre.co.uk Until July 16. Vibrant, inclusive, informal and educational show.

July 6-9 For 0-6s. 10am & 11.30am. Adults Don Quixote & children £7. Under 6mths free, must book. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. An explosion of Spanish sunshine and vivacious comedy for all ages. www.chickenshed.org.uk Various times. July 9 2.30pm audio described performance and touch Sundays Jul 24-Aug 28 tour. From £15. Sadler’s Wells Bandstand Concerts At Golders Hill Park Bandstand and Theatre, EC1R 4TN. www.sadlerswells.com Parliament Hill Bandstand. 3pm5pm. Various artists. Free.

July 7 www.heath-hands.org.uk Happy & Glorious Patriotic and nostalgic afternoon Until July 31 with over 60 songs to celebrate I Want My Hat Back Trilogy the Queen’s jubilee, ending with A bear has lost his hat. A fish

What’s On Family Theatre

Boost your child’s confidence with a FREE Perform class

Perform’s autumn-term weekly classes are packed full of fun and will get the academic year off to a brilliant start. With a focus on self-esteem boosting activities which develop confidence, communication, coordination and concentration, Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s potential.

The curriculum ensures plenty of friendship and laughter, with drama games, catchy songs and funky dances.

Class material is specially designed by Perform, with apps, downloads and videos for the children to enjoy at home.

Small classes, run by two professional actors, ensure plenty of individual attention, and each child receives a progress report every 10 weeks. At the end of term the children put on a fabulous show for family and friends.

This autumn, classes for 4-7s will enjoy a spellbinding adventure in The Magician’s Chamber, while 7-12s work on a festive adaptation of A Christmas Carol, in Ebenezer.

No obligation FREE trial at Venues in: N1, N2, N4, N5, NEW classes in N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, NEW classes in N13, N14, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11. Coming Soon: N1 Thurs 6.05pm, N7 Tues 4pm & 5.05pm, N13 Thurs 4pm & 5.05pm, NW5 Mon 4pm & 5.05pm, NW2 Thurs 4pm & 5.05pm. www.perform.org.uk/try

Perform’s Peter Pan drama, dance and singing summer courses are running across July and August. www.perform.org.uk/peter pan familiesonline.co.uk

a spectacular flag-waving finale. £16.50. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk July 9 Baby Barrier Reef Show for 0-3s by Little Supernovas and Onceupona at Pickled Pepper Books, Enfield, EN2 6SN, 10am.

Adult £11, child 9.50. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL. www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk July 10 Influencer Hip-hop spectacular. Cast of 200 performers. Explores, through a young girl’s eyes, how social media influences young people’s self-esteem. Non-professional showcase from Streetz Ahead.

1pm & 5pm. £12, concs £10.

Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk July 11-13 House of No Escape Trapped in magical rooms, can the children solve enough puzzles to break free? Children’s Theatre 2 at Angel Shed Inclusive Theatre.

Tickets £8, £4, pay what you can.

7pm. Angel Shed, Camden Road, N7 0SP. www.angelshedtheatre.org.uk July 12-August 28 101 Dalmations Vibrant show packed with puppetry and brilliant songs. 4+ only. Signed, described, captioned

WIN!

and relaxed performances. From £25. Kids go half-price Monday to Thursday subject to availability.

Regents Park Open Air Theatre.

NW1 4NU. www.openairtheatre.com July 13 Charity Showcase Part of High Barnet Chamber Music Festival. 6.30pm. Friends’ Recital Hall at QE Boys’ School, Queens Road, EN5 4DQ. Free.

Retiring collection to aid Ukraine. www.hbcmf.co.uk July 13-17 Cirque Du Soleil: Corteo.

Various times. From £47. The O2, Peninsula Square, SE10, 0DX. www.theo2.co.uk July 17 Ben Tarlton & Robin Green Beethoven, Boulanger and Rachmaninoff, part of High Barnet Chamber Music Festival. 3pm.

The Friends’ Recital Hall, QE Boys’ School EN5 4DQ. £10. 8-25s free. www.hbcmf.co.uk July 21-Sept 4 Room on the Broom Fun-filled musical. 3+. Various times. From £10. Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7ES. https://thelyrictheatre.co.uk July 21-31 Pirates Immersive family dining experience. Promises an amazing

Fine Feather Puzzle

Dive into nature Let your children lose themselves in nature this summer with these beautiful puzzles. Each one is made with sturdy pieces and includes a double-sided poster with colouring-in on one side and information about the animals on the other. At 500 pieces and 55cm in diameter, they are ideal for children and families to get stuck into over the holiday.

Made by Fine Feather Press, a company on a mission to inspire a love of nature in children, In Search of Sealife and In Search of Insects feature a strong ecological message and are plastic-free.

They are available from Bookshop.org, Hive, Amazon or any good bookshop, but Families North London has three of these lovely puzzles to be won – and winners can choose which one they prefer.

For a chance to win one, go to bit.ly/compsFNL Competition closes August 31. See T+Cs at bit.ly/FFpuzzle 13

Whats On acrobatic performance and swashbuckling sword fights while you eat. All ages. £25, £30. Various times. Arts Depot, N12 0GA. www.artsdepot.co.uk

every one can change our world for the better. 2.30pm & 6.30pm.

Adults £17, children £16, family £62. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

July 23 & 24 Tales From The Shed on Tour At Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. Perfect for young children. 10.30am. Adult £10, child £5, family of 5 £25. www.fobp.events

July 28-Aug 21 Midsummer Mechanicals Hilarious follow-up to the playwithin-a-play from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, for families. Various prices/times. 5+. Plus. family workshop 9-12s, Aug 4-20, £10.

Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

July 23 & 24 Cinderella in Boots Chickenshed Theatre gives the classic panto a modern spin.

4.30pm. Adult £14, child £8, family of 5 £35, under 2s free. Arrive early, 2.30pm-4.30pm for house plant sale, grown from cuttings in the park conservatory - cash only.

Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events July 24 The Jungle Book Bagheera and Baloo help Mowgli back to the man-village. All ages.

3pm. £9. Family £32. Myddelton House Gardens, EN2 9HG. www.visitleevalley.org.uk July 26-28 The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny Oh, naughty bunnies, going into Mr McGregor’s garden! How ever will they escape? £12.50. Under 2s free. Stephens House and Gardens, East End Road, N3 3QE. www.stephenshouseandgardens. com July 27 Hasbro Stars Live It’s the greatest talent show ever – Ben & Holly, PJ Masks, My Little Pony, Mr & Mrs Potato Head and even Mr Monopoly. 10.30am, 1.30pm. 4.30pm. Adults £17, children £16, family £62. Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk July 28 Hegley & Cannelloni Family Show Fun, laughter, music, magic, poetry and participation. All ages. 7pm.

Tea lawn £15 pp, bench (4) £60, picnic table (6) £90. Lauderdale House, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk Ministry of Science Live!

Explosive science show proving 14

Families North London

July 29 David Walliams’ Awful Auntie Packed with fun, humour and a heart-warming message. All ages.

3pm. Adult from £12, child £8, family from £35. Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events July 29-30 Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever A road-trip full of adventures and friends. Various times/prices.

Hackney Empire, E8 1EL. www.hackneyempire.co.uk July 31 – August 14 Children’s Festival of Fun July 31 Tales Big Day Out Tales From The Shed takes over in a two-hour event with song, dance, action and workshops. 0-7s. £10, free under 12mths.

Aug 3 Storyworld Yoga 2pm 0-7s. £5.

Aug 4 Sing Sign 1.30pm 0-6. £6.

Aug 5 Storyworld 1.30pm 0-7s. £6.50.

Aug 6 Planet Play 9.30am 0-3s.

Adults £8, babies/children free.

Aug 6, 7 & 13 Making a Better World 1.30pm. Colourful musical show for 6-11s. £7.50.

Aug 10 Storyworld Yoga 2pm 0-7s. £5.

Aug 11 Sing Sign 1.30pm 0-7s.

3pm 7-11s. £6.

Aug 12 Storyworld 1.30pm 0-7s. £6.50.

Aug 13 Sound Adventures 10am.

Enter a world of cartoon noises and breath-taking visuals. 6-9s. £6.

Aug 14 Planet Play 9.30am 0-3s.

Adults £8, babies/children free.

Book more than one event and get 10% off. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk August 3-13 Cinderella in Boots Chickenshed sprinkles its magic on the tale to create a unique modern twist. 3+. Various dates, times. £8, babies under 12m free.

Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk Aug 4&5 The Reluctant Dragon Everyone knows St George has to battle the dragon, but what happens when the dragon simply won’t fight? Tickets £12.50, under 2s free. Stephens House and Gardens, East End Road, N3 3QE. www.stephenshouseandgardens. com Aug 7 As You Like It Shakespeare’s play brought to life by an all-male cast. Suitable for all.

7pm. £10-£17. Knebworth, SG1 2AX. www.knebworthhouse.com Aug 8-18 Dr Dolittle Join Wild Immersive Theatre on a journey into the animal kingdom.

Mon-Thurs, various start times.

Adult £25, child £18. Chelsea Physic Garden, 66 Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HS. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Aug 9 & 10 As You Like It with Cbeebies Special Shakespeare adaptation for preschoolers and families. 11am & 2pm. 3+. Various prices. The Globe Theatre, New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT. www.shakespearesglobe.com August 10 & 11 Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday Join Sarah, Duck and favourite friends. 1pm. £12-£14. Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar, EN6 2HZ. www.tickets.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk Aug 14 As You Like It Shakespeare’s play brought to life by an all-male cast. Suitable for all. 7pm. £10-£17. Kenwood, Hampstead Lane, NW3 7JR. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ whats-on/kenwood-as-you-like-it August 16-Sept 4 The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Four of Eric Carle’s stories brought to life using 75 puppets. 1+.

Various times. From £15. Lyric Hammersmith, King Street, W6 0QL. www.lyric.co.uk Aug 20 Baby Broadway Family Concert Well-known numbers performed

by West End singers, plus bubbles, poetry dance and audience interaction. All ages. 10am & 11.30am, £7. Under 6m free.

Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk Aug 20 The Wind In The Willows Hilarious recount of how Mole, Ratty and Badger save their friend Toad and his shiny motorcar from deep trouble. Open air. All ages.

4pm. Adult £14, conc £11, family £41, under 3s free. Myddelton House Gardens, Enfield, EN2 9HG. www.cambridgetouringproductions. co.uk Aug 22 & 23 Storytelling: As You Like It For 5-12s. £10. The Globe Theatre, New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT. www.shakespearesglobe.com Aug 24 David Walliams’ Awful Auntie Fun, humour and a heart-warming message. Open air. Age 7+. 4pm.

Adult from £14, child £10.

Forty Hall, Forty Hill, EN2 9HA. www.fortyhallestate.co.uk Aug 24-26 Storytelling: Romeo and Juliet For 5-12s. £15. Sam Wannamaker Playhouse, New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT. www.shakespearesglobe.com

Aug 24-Sept 3 Beyond Bollywood Breathtakingly colourful journey through Indian culture, dance and music. Various times. Sept 3, 2.30pm, audio-described and touch tour. From £18. Peacock Theatre, WC2A 2HT. www.sadlerswells.com August 25 Musical Theatre Singalong with Tim McArthur A gallop through favourite songs.

Join in, or go for the fun and “actalong” to great classics such as Hakuna Matata, Chitty Chitty Bang, Bang and more. 7pm. Tea lawn £15 pp, bench (4) £60, picnic table (6) £90. Lauderdale House, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk The Railway Children Retelling of the classic. Open air.

Bring a picnic. 4pm. Adult £14, conc £11, family £41, under 3s free. Myddelton House Gardens, Enfield, EN2 9HG. www.cambridgetouringproductions. co.uk Rapunzel Fast-paced new musical. 4+. 6pm.

Adult £14, child £12, family £48.

Knebworth, SG1 2AX. www.knebworthhouse.com

August 29 Cinderella In the open air. Admission includes entry to gardens from 10am.

Last admission £3.30pm. Show 4pm. Adult £18, child £11, family £50, under-2 free. Capel Manor Gardens, Enfield, EN1 4RQ. www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk Sept 6-10 & 12-17 Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo All-male ballet company, known for sassy spoofs, a sense of fun and flawless dance. 8+. Sept 10, 2.30pm, audio-described and touch tour. From £18. Sadler’s Wells Theatre, EC1R 4TN. www.sadlerswells.com Sept 10 The Wind in The Willows Riotous family open-air adventure, from Calf2Cow theatre with the river bank friends. 2.30pm. Adult £15, child £12, family £35, under 2s free. Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events Sept 11 Milkshake! Monkey’s Musical Featuring Paddington, Daisy & Ollie. Milo, Noddy, Pip and Posy, Blue’s Clues & You! and of course Milkshake! in a spectacular new show. 10.30am, 1.30pm, 4.30pm.

Adult £17, child £16, family £62.

Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

What’s On Events SEN sessions Some venues run sessions for children with special needs. See our page at www.bit.ly/FNLsen

Whats On Ongoing Mac’s Indoor and Outdoor Trails Family discovery trails at Kenwood House, Hampstead Lane, NW3. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/kenwood/families/ The Gunpowder Plot Immersive experience inside the Tower of London vaults. Weds-Sun. Various times, prices. 8-12 Tower Hill Vaults, EC3N 4EE. https://gunpowderimmersive.com Forty Hall Features interactive children’s exhibition about the lives of children of the past. Free. Or help Rip the dog find his bones and win a small prize – £2.50. Open 11am4pm Thurs to Sun. Forty Hall, Forty Hill, EN2 9HA. www.fortyhallestate.co.uk RAF Museum Family trails, interactive exhibits in RAF: First To The Future – Free entry. And paid-for exhibits, 4D theatre, flight simulator, Spitfire Experience, Spitfire Obstacle Course 8+ and Mini-Spitfire Obstacle Course for 4-7s. Open every day. 10am -5pm. Free.

Must book. Parking charge. RAF Museum. NW9 5LL. www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london Grant Museum of Zoology Know your dodo from your quagga.

Tues-Fri 1pm-5pm. Sat 11am-5pm.

Free, no booking required. UCL, University St WC1E 6DE. ucl.ac.uk/culture/grant-museumzoology Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology Amazing artefacts tell the stories of ordinary people from Ancient Egypt and Sudan. Tues-Fri 1pm5pm. Sat 11am-5pm. Free, no booking required. UCL, Malet Place WC1 6BT. ucl.ac.uk/culture/petrie-museum The 100 Story hotel New play exhibit running alongside permanent play spaces designed to fire up children’s imaginations.

Must book. Discover Children’s Story Centre, Stratford, E5 4QZ https://discover.org.uk Ted’s Space Adventures Planetarium show, under 7s.

11.30am, 2.30pm. Also Meet The Neighbours, 7+. 12.30pm.

Starstruck, 7+, 3.30pm. The Sky Tonight, 7+, 1.30pm (may change), 4.30pm. Weekends, school holidays.

Adults £10, child £5. Student & under 25 £6.50. Booking advised. Royal Observatory, SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk

Every Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday Dad’s drop-in group T on The Green, Bruce Castle Park, N17. Sat 12-1.30pm, Tues and Thurs 3.30pm-5pm. Free children’s refreshments. tonthegreen.co.uk Saturdays Character Encounters Join an exciting performance and see maritime history brought to life. Various times. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Term-time Sundays Discover Sundays Hands-on creative activities. All ages/abilities. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Sundays Family Art & Craft Bruce Castle Museum workshops suitable for accompanied 4-12s.

Little explorer gallery with interactives and dress-up. Free.

Plus Mystery Manor Trail with sticker booklet £1, and Tree Trail. bit.ly/brucecastle Sundays Until July 17 Sunday Shed Stand-alone workshops, including elements of dance, drama, music and art. Booking recommended.

Little Spark! for 5-7s. 9.30-11am. £8. Spark! for 8-11s. 11.15am12.45pm. £8. See website for longer projects. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk

From July 23-August 29 Uniqlo Tate Play: The Obliteration Room Add provided stickers to transform a white room, and create your own art-work to add to an installation. Free. Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG. www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern Until August 31 Cornelia Parker Iconic suspended artworks, an exploded shed, monumental embroidery and more. Adult £16, 12-18S £5, under-12s free. Tate Britain, Millbank, SW1P 4RG. tate.org.uk Until July 15 Small is Beautiful See more than 130 miniature artworks. Adult £16, child 6-12 £11.50. Closed Mondays. 79-85 Old Brompton Rd, SW7 3JS. https://smallisbeautifulart.com Until July 21 & Sept 8-Dec 15 Amazing Tots Developmental stay and play for under 2s with a disability or developmental delay. Free. Email Karen.Rodrigues-Ayers@kids.org.uk.

JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk Until July 24 Story Seekers Use your wits and imagination to

find connections in the collections.

Free. Imperial War Museum, SE1 6HZ. www.iwm.org.uk Until Aug 7 Astronomy Photographer of the Year Daily. Adults £10, concs £6.50, child £5. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Weekends until Aug 7 Sea Legs & Family Mission D Day Get to grips with the science and skills needed at sea in interactive family activity Sea Legs. In Mission D Day use your kit bag to find hidden messages and crack Morse code. 7+. 10am-3pm. Drop in free with admission. HMS Belfast, The Queen’s Walk, SE1 2JH. www.iwm.org.uk Until Aug 21 Summer Exhibition Eclectic, vibrant and innovative art exhibition, ideal for introducing children to galleries. Paid entry.

See workshop on July 24. Royal Academy of Arts, W1J 0BD. www.royalacademy.org.uk Until Aug 26 Earth Photo 2022 Shortlisted entrants in the society’s international photographic competition, great for sparking conversations about our world and its inhabitants. Mon-Fri. Free. Royal Geographical Society, SW7 2AR. www.rgs.org

Sundays Until July 17, and Sept 4-Dec 4 Crafternoon For 3-8s and their families.

2pm-4.30pm. JW3, Finchley Road, NW3. Free, drop-in. JW3 Community Centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk

Ou Fam r Sum ily m Pan er to

Tuesdays in term-time Play Tuesdays Facilitated play, songs and stories for under-5s. £4. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Tuesdays and Fridays in term-time Singing and Story Sessions London Transport Museum, WC2.

For under-5s. Various times. ltmuseum.co.uk

Bring Your Baby Pub Quiz & Walks Various dates, venues throughout North London. www.bringyourbaby.org

Two Wednesdays a month Secret Garden Pop-Up Café Exciting activities for little ones such as Busybricks, Tales and Trails and Crafty Chefs, while you meet friends for coffee, homemade cake and lunch. Or get creative with a craft pack. Summer events in August, Check website. Free entry to café. Book activities.

9.45am-2pm. Salisbury House, Bush Hill Park, N9 9LA. www.thesecretgardenpopup.com

First weekend of the month Family Fun Weekends Workshops, songs, activities and experiences for all ages. Meet characters every weekend and school hol. Cutty Sark, SE10 9HT. www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark

Until July 17 Uniqlo Tate Play: Make Studio Embellish Rip, shape and snip to piece together your own wearable art.

Wednesdays under 5s. Weekends all welcome. 10am-6pm. Free.

familiesonline.co.uk

Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG. www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern

Cinderella Coming this summer to Chickenshed!

3 - 13 Aug | Ages 3+ Tickets £8 020 8292 9222

Boo ki Now ng !

www.chickenshed.org.uk

15

Whats On Until Aug 19 Vision & Virtuosity by Tiffany & Co Exhibit marking the jeweller’s 150th anniversary in London. Free.

Booking advised. Saatchi Gallery, SW3 4RY. www.saatchigallery.com

Until August 28

Superheroes, Orphans 7 Origins: 125 years in comics

pushed the game to new limits.

Adults from £16.80, child £8.25.

See multi-sensory tour July 2.

Family ticket from £27. Must book.

Design Museum, W8 6AG. designmuseum.org Until Sept Our Future Planet Exhibition exploring carboncapture tech. Free. Must book entry to museum and entry to exhibiton.

Check out Engineer Your Future, free interactive gallery for 11+ WedsSun. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk Until Sept 4 John Burningham: An Illustrated Life Discover the wild, wonderful, irreverent work of this author and illustrator of children’s books. Free.

Weds-Fri & Sun. 10am-4pm. Burgh House, NW3 1LT. https://burghhouse.museumssites. com

It’s time to discover the back stories of the legends you know and love. Superman. Batman.

Spider-Man. Black Panther. X-Men. Have you ever noticed they are all foundlings, orphans, adoptees, and foster children? Their early life experiences impact on the stance they take over good and evil.

There are also characters from early newspaper comic strips, Japanese Manga and contemporary graphic novels, with examples of international comics rarely exhibited in the UK. As well as new artistic commissions by comic artists Asia Alfasi, Bex Glendining and Woodrow Phoenix.

Plus Marvellous Marvel Me July 26, 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm.

Choose a character from the exhibition and insert yourself into the story.

Make Your Own Comic Book July 27, 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm. Design and make your own comic book.

Design Your Own Superhero July 28, 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm. Learn to draw your favourites.

3D Character Design July 29, 11am-1pm (with BSL interpretation) & 2pm-4pm. Create a 2D character in drawing and collage, then bring it to life in clay.

Find out more and book your tickets at foundlingmuseum.org. uk.

And super news - under 21s go free.

Foundling Museum, 40 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Until Aug 29 Rooted Being Reflects on our relationship with plants and fungi. Runs alongside permanent exhibitions Being Human and Medicine Man. Free. The Wellcome Collection, NW1 2BE. https://wellcomecollection.org Until Aug 29 Football: Designing the Beautiful Game Learn how design innovation has 16

Families North London

Until Sept 18 Superbloom Spectacular floral display in the moat, in tribute to the Queen’s Jubilee. Includes a family-friendly slide into the moat. Various prices.

Viewing from path above moat is free but must be booked. Tower of London, EC3N 4AB www.hrp.org.uk Thank You Darling Exhibition by celebrated contemporary artist Lily van der Stokker, on themes of family, relationships, work and home.

Good conversation starter. Free, must book. Camden Art Centre, Arkwright Road, NW3 6DG. https://camdenartcentre.org Until October 16 Weird Sensations Feels Good: The World of ASMR Adults from £9.50. Family from £21. Must book. Design Museum, W8 6AG. designmuseum.org Until Oct 30 Life Through a Royal Lens Exhibition. Free with admission.

Kensington Palace, W8 4PX. www.hrp.org.uk Until December Harry Kane: I Want To Play Football Exclusive display in collaboration iconic footballer Harry Kane.

And Grime Stories: From the Corner to the Mainstream, The history of Grime in East London and the community at its heart.

Free, booking advised. Museum of London. EC2Y 5HN. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Until December 31 Walk Through British Art With art from 1545 to present. Tate Britain, Millbank, SW1P 4RG. Free. tate.org.uk Until Jan 8 Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature Discover Potter’s life as a scientist and conservationist in this familyfriendly exhibition. Adult £14, under-11s free. V&A, SW7 2RL. www.vam.ac.uk

Sorting Britain: The Power of Postcodes The Postal Museum. Discover the ground-breaking technology that changed the post forever. Plus ride the Mail Rail, or book a tunnel walk. See Dear Zoo Trail July 22. postalmuseum.org The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Activities, experiences and exhibition to mark the Queen’s connection with the armed services. Imperial War Museum, SE1 6HZ. https://www.iwm.org.uk Until April 28 Slavery & The Bank How wealth created through slavery shaped Britain. Free. Bank of England, museum entrance on Bartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum July 1-2 East Barnet Festival Music, dance, food and craft stalls, children’s activities, funfair and dog show. Classic cars on Sunday.

Free. Oakhill Park, East Barnet, EN4. www.eastbarnetfestival.co.uk July 2 Multisensory Tour of Football: Designing the Beautiful Game For blind and partially-sighted people. 11am-1pm. Free. Design Museum, W8 6AG. www.designmuseum.org Insect Safari Join the rangers to look for bugs and minibeasts. Free, book.

10.30am-12.30pm. Highgate Wood, Muswell Hill Rd, N10 3JN. www.heath-hands.org.uk From July 2 Africa Fashion Exploring the global impact of a dynamic fashion scene through photos, textiles, music and visual arts. £16, under-26 £10, under-12 free. July 23-Sept 1 Family Display: Pattern Studio 11am5pm, drop-in free. Aug 7 Pop-Up Performance: Music Makers Sing, make sounds and dance in a fun interactive workshop. Free.

11am, 1pm, 3pm. Aug 11 Wind and Weave Workshop drop-in free, 11am-4pm. Aug 18 Families Workshop: Body Adornment 11am-3.30pm, £5 booking essential.

V&A, Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL. www.vam.ac.uk July 2, 9 & 16 Minecraft Masterpieces: Stonehenge Explore Stonehenge though Minecraft. Free, drop-in. July 2, 9, 16. Museum entry free, must book.

British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org July 3 Red Bull Soapbox Race Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY. www.alexandrapalace.com Music on the Lawn A variety of performers create a day of live music, with food and craft stalls, children’s activities and bouncy castle. Profits go to conservation on Forty Hall Estate.

£15. Accompanied children under 15 free. 11am-6pm. Forty Hall Estate, EN2 9HA. www.fortyhallestate.co.uk Myddleton Road Summer Festival Stalls, live music, rides, activities and more. Family friendly. 12noon6pm. N22 8LZ. www.myddletonroadmarket.co.uk July 3-Aug 28 Hampstead Beach At JW3, Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sun 10am-9pm. Free. No book.

See guidelines. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk July 4-Aug 31 Beach Club with Chloe Crafts, singing and yoga.

Accompanied 0-4s. Mons and Weds. 2pm. Free. Drop in. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk July 6 & Aug 10 Batwatch Join the rangers for a walk looking at bats. £8. Highgate Wood, Muswell Hill Rd, N10 3JN. www.heath-hands.org.uk July 6-Aug 2 Art at Lauderdale House See Alison Blomfield’s vibrant landscapes and Blaise Thompson’s paintings inspired by doors, caves, letterboxes, windows & pockets – portals of every kind. Thurs-Tues 12noon-4pm, Weds 11am-3pm.

Free. Lauderdale House, Waterlow Park, N6 5HG www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk July 7 The Invisible World of Germs How germs shaped everything on our planet, and why snot, sweat and earwax are your superpower.

Talk by award-winning author Isabel Thomas. Ideal for 6-12s.

6pm. £16, £10. The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. www.rigb.org July 8 Charity Golf Day For Nightingale Cancer Support Centre. One for adult members of the family. Promises a full day of golf, food and drink at Crews Hill Golf Club, EN2 8AZ. https://bit.ly/NCSgolf July 8-10 Crouch End Festival Community-based arts festival.

Various locations. Check website. www.crouchendfestival.org July 9 Summer Sizzler Big Beat Playground’s family friendly mini-festival, with 3 DJs, inflatable balls, confetti, creative space, soft play and more. Child £8.25, adult £10.25. Some activities may cost extra. 2.30pm. Artsdepot, N12 0GA. www.artsdepot.co.uk July 10 Summer Family Disco Boogie With Ilana Banana. 11am. Adult £3.

Child £7, siblings under 6m free.

With craft, soft play and games.

Whats On Shalom Sea! A Kids’ Maritime Party on the Beach Inviting Russian-speaking families to set sail on an exciting adventure. 3pm. 0-4s £10. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. jw3.org.uk July 13 Mysterious Numbers: Unlocking the Secrets of the Universe Can numbers explain black holes and other cosmological problems?

In-person and livestream. For 13+.

7pm-8pm. Various prices. The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. www.rigb.org July 14 Little Feet: Exhibition Explorer Focused and relaxed activities for under-5s and their adults on Feminine Power: the Divine to the Demonic. 10.30am-12noon. Free, drop in. Must book free ticket to British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org Let’s Walk! Tottenham Fun, friendly circular walk by Canal & River Trust volunteers from Tottenham Lock, going through Walthamstow Wetlands. Slow to moderate pace. 11.30am-12.30pm.

Free, must book. https://canalrivertrust.org.uk July 16 Festival of Archaeology Day of activities. First-come firstserve. Free. Must book entry.

British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org Mudlarking 10.30am-5.30pm. Meet mudlarks, archaeologists and those who work and live on the river Thames.

Southwark Cathedral, London Bridge, SE1 9DA. www.archaeologyuk.org The Girl Who Noticed Everything – author event Uplifting story about curiosity and caring. Storytime with author Jane Porter, and activity session.

2.30am. 2-7s. £12.99 includes book. Sibling ticket £5, redeemable against books on the day. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL. www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk Nearly New Sale Top-quality baby and children’s clothes sold by mums to mums at a fraction of the high street price.

Parents with outgrown goods can sell and keep 100 per cent of the proceeds. 10am-12noon. Also Oct 1, Nov 5, Dec 3. St Stephens Church Hall, Park Avenue, EN1 2BA. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk Palmers Green Food Festival 11am-6pm. Free entry. Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events July 16 & 17 East End Canal Festival Celebrate the Regent Canal’s 200th anniversary with boat trips, making workshops, music, storytelling, carnival costumes and more.

11am-5pm. Free. Art Pavilion, familiesonline.co.uk

Clinton Road, Mile End Park and Regent’s Canal, E3 5QY. www.regentscanalheritage.org.uk/ canal-festival July 16 & 17 Elsyng Family Days Mystery objects, displays, quizzes & crafts on the site of a former Tudor palace of Henry VIII, lost for many years, thought to be the size of Hampton Court. Free drop-in.

11am-4pm. Elsyng Palace Site, Forty Hall, Forty Hill, EN2 9HA. www.fortyhallestate.co.uk July 16 & 17 Great British Food Festival Ticket includes access to Knebworth Park, gardens, dinosaur trail and adventure playground.

From £11.50. Knebworth, SG1 2AX. www.knebworthhouse.com July 17 Give it a Go! Celebration of physical and mental wellbeing with many free activities and sports to try. Drop in. 1pm5.30pm. Parliament Hill, NW5 1QR. www.heath-hands.org.uk Community Orchard Picnic With live music, refreshments and a tug of war. 1pm-5pm.

The Orchard, Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events Wonderful Wildlife Weekend Drop-in free family activities with London Wildlife Trust. 10.30am-12 & 2-3.30pm. Woodberry Wetlands, New River Path, N16 5HQ. www.wildlondon.org.uk

25, 27, 28. 11.30-12.30 & 1.30pm2.30pm. Free with admission.

Play area Sorted! costs extra.

See discount for booking with admission. The Postal Museum, Phoenix Place, WC1X 0DA www.postalmuseum.org July 23 Family Fun Day: Science Spectacular Talks, demonstrations and handson science. 11am-4pm £16, £10.

Ideal for 7-12, siblings welcome.

Gets booked up quickly. The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. www.rigb.org July 23 & 24 Barnet Summertime Daytime festival. Emerging local artists as well favourite tribute acts Flash: A Tribute to Queen, Duran, The Bowie Experience, Typically Tina, Rickie & Melvin and more.

Family-friendly. Various prices.

Barnet Playing Fields, EN5. https://barnetsummertime.co.uk Juy 23 -Aug 7 Celtic Games Embark on a quest, hunt mammoth, hear the warriors’ talks and stories, hold a weapon and more. Make a torc necklace and have facepaint for the fire procession at the end of the day. £12.50pp. Under-4s free. Celtic Harmony Camp, Brickendon, SG13 8NY. https://celticharmony.org July 23, Aug 6, 20 & Sept 17 Making Masks: Japan

10am-4pm. Free drop-in, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org July 24 Family Studio: Have Your Voice Heard Workshop. Design slogans, banners and placards to tell the world about issues that impact you. Part of the Summer Exhibition events. 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm.

Free for families. Booking advised.

Royal Academy of Arts, W1J 0BD. www.royalacademy.org.uk Ice Sunday Descend into Victorian Ice Wells – must be physically fit and 13+.

Plus, ice-related activities. Normal admission. Adult £6, child £3, family £14. London Canal Museum, New Wharf Road, N1 9RT. www.canalmuseum.org.uk July 25 & 26 Family Dressing Demonstration See how Elizabethans got dressed and try on the clothes of a gentleman or a ne’er do well.

Various times. £5. The Globe Theatre, New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT. www.shakespearesglobe.com July 26 From Faraday to the Future Michael Faraday invented the electric motor in just one day.

This talk examines his innovative process. 13+. 7pm-8.30pm. £16, £10. The Royal Institution, Albermarle Street, W1S 4BS. www.rigb.org

There and Back Sunday Ride a real miniature steam train, see model railways and dioramas in the Bothy Gardens, plus a Train Trail with a chance to win tickets to The Reluctant Dragon (see Family Theatre July 24). 12noon4pm. £5. Stephens House and Gardens, East End Road, N3 3QE. www.stephenshouseandgardens. com

Superheroes, Orphans & Origins:

July 18 The Itch!

Youth Theatre Taster for 12-17s to create innovative theatre through workshop activities and games in an inclusive environment. 1pm5pm. £20. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. www.chickenshed.org.uk

Until 28 August 2022

July 22, 29, 30 Southwark’s Archaeology Travel through thousands of years of history on a guided walk and see excavations still visible in the landscape, and handle real historical objects. Arguably the largest archaeological site in the world. 10am-12noon. www.archaeologyuk.org July 22-August 31 Dear Zoo Trail Find the animals plus Dear Zoo: Storytelling Aug 4, 7, 11, 14, 11am and 12.15pm. 2-7s. Meet Rod Campbell Aug 11. Crafts: Magical Menagerie July 28, 30, 31, Aug 6. 11am-4pm. Crafts: Toucan Make a Difference Aug 13, 18, 20, 21. 11am-6pm. Crafts: Animal Suncatchers, first-come, Aug

125 years in comics

Discover our free family workshops Free for under 21s Book online with code ENTRYFAM to receive 10% off admission foundlingmuseum.org.uk

New York World’s Fair Comics, Vol. 1 #2, Jack Burnley & ™ DC. All Rights Reserved. Used with permission.

Zenobia, 2016 Morten Dürr and Lars Horneman

JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. www.jw3.org.uk

17

Whats On July 26 & 28 Dippy Tales Storytelling to learn all about the nation’s favourite dinosaur for under-7s. Doors open 8.30am.

Various family prices. Natural History Museum, SW7 5HD. www.nhm.ac.uk

Aug 1 & 4 Botanical Soap Making Design your own botanical soap.

10.30am & 2pm. Aug 4 2pm only.

Adult £22, child £18, includes entry to garden. Chelsea Physic Garden, 66 Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HS. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

July 27 & Aug 31 Tots at the Docks Free monthly play sessions for 1-4s. 11am-1pm, 2pm-4pm.

Free. Drop in. Museum entry free.

Can book. Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

Aug 3 The Origin of the Universe from the Multiverse Talk. 7pm. 13+. In person £16, £10. Livestream pay what you can.

Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. www.rigb.org

July 27, Aug 2, 29 Chocolate Workshop Learn about the cacao tree and make your own treats to take home. 10-30am. Aug 2 & 29, extra session 2pm. Adult £20, child £18, includes entry to garden. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk July 28-Sept 04 Lost in Wonderland Maize Maze Follow Alice down the rabbit hole to discover the topsy turvy world of Wonderland. Adult £7, child £8.50. Lewis of London Ice Cream Farm, Galley Lane, EN5. www.lewisoflondon.co.uk July 28 The Hidden World of Animal Consciousness Talk. 7pm-8.30pm. 13+.

Livestream. Pay what you can.

Royal Institution. W1S 4BS www.rigb.org July 28-Sept 10 Impossible Images: ancient Egypt Create an Egypt-themed family photo. Free drop-in. 10am-4pm.

July 28, 29, Aug 11, 12, 25, 26, Sept 10. Must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org July 29-30 & Aug 19-20 Big Wild Sleepout Camp at RSPB Rye Meads and experience nature after dark in this family-friendly event. Perfect opportunity to spots bats and moths. £10.50-£25.50. RSPB Rye Meads, SG12 8JS. events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads July 30, Aug 13 & 27 Making Masks: Aztecs Design a mosaic mask inspired

by Aztec gods. 10am-4pm. July 30, August 13 & 27. Free, drop-in, must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org July 30 & Aug 27 Guide in a Hide Join the hide guides for advice, bird-spotting tips and information.

2pm-4pm. Binoculars available to hire. RSPB Rye Meads, SG12 8JS. events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads Aug 1 Maths Madness Exciting, joyous and slightly chaotic. 6+. 2pm. £16, £10. Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. www.rigb.org 18

Families North London

Aug 4 & 18 Design Your Own Plant Pot Plant a seed and design your pot to take home. 10.30am. Adult £20, child £15, includes entry to garden.

Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Aug 4-Sept 24 Minecraft Masterpieces: Rome Try your own Roman construction.

Free drop-in. 10am-4pm. Aug 4, 5, 18, 19, Sept 3, 24. Must book entry.

British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org Aug 10, 15, 25 Make Your Own Paint With Plants Learn that plants are used to make dyes, paints and pigments and make your own. 10.30am. Adult £20, child £15, includes entry to Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Aug 11 & 16 Make Your Own Plant Puppets Using foraged and plant-based materials. 10.30. Adult £22, child £18, includes entry to garden.

Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Aug 11-23 Kidz World Fun Fair 12noon-8pm. Montrose Playing Fields, The Greenway, NW9 5AT. Aug 12 The Horrible Science Show With Nick Arnold, author of the Horrible Science books.

6-12s. 6pm. £16, £10. The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. www.rigb.org Aug 12-21 Cogger’s Family Fun Fair 12noon-9pm. Friary Park, Friary Road, N12.

Aug 13 The Fitzrovia Fete A day of free art workshops and performances, 11am-5pm, on the streets around Pollock’s Toy Museum, W1T 2HL. www.pollockstoymuseum.co.uk

splash - or relax on Bikini Bottom Beach. Various prices. Knebworth, SG1 2AX. www.knebworthhouse.com Aug 18 Let’s Walk: Olympic Park Family walk led by Canal & River Trust volunteers. Buggy-accessible route. Starts at Hackney Wick Station, E9. 11am-12.30pm. Free must book. canalrivertrust.org.uk Aug 26 Explosive Food Show about about the incredible amount of energy in the food you eat. 2pm & 6pm. 6-12s. £16, £10.

Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. www.rigb.org Aug 28 K-Pop Festival Music, Korean culture, funfair and more. Family-friendly. Various prices.

12noon-8pm. Barnet Playing Fields, EN5. www.kclub.tv Aug 28 & 29 Classic Motor Show Static show and arena parades.

Includes access to park, gardens, dino trail & adventure playground. £11.50. Knebworth, SG1 2AX. www.knebworthhouse.com Sept 4 Biddall’s Family Funfair Aimed at younger children. noon6pm. Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events Classic and Vintage Car Show 10am-5.30pm. Adults £10, child £6, Family £30, under 2 free. Capel Manor Gardens, Enfield, EN1 4RQ. www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk Angel Canal Festival City Road Basin, Angel, N1 8GJ. See website for details. https://canalrivertrust.org.uk Sept 5 Little Feet: Little Leaders Take part in a story and make a prop to take home about Feminine Power: the Divine to the Demonic. Under-5s. 10.30am12noon. Free, drop in. Must book entry. British Museum, WC1E 7JW. www.britishmuseum.org Sept 10-11 DogFest Hay-bale racing, dog diving, fun dog show. Get training tips, advice from animal experts and enjoy all things dog. Various prices.

Knebworth, SG1 2AX. www.knebworthhouse.com

Aug 13-28 Family Sword Fighting Demo Various times. £5. The Globe Theatre, New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT. www.shakespearesglobe.com

Sept 10-11 Bee and Honey Show See an observation hive, roll candles and buy honey. Capel Manor Gardens, Enfield, EN1 4RQ. www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk

Aug 14-27 The Nickelodeon Experience Ten activity zones include immersive experiences featuring Nickelodeon favourites, with creative and skills-based challenges. Meet and greets, play,

Sept 18 Apple Day Try unusual varieties, and freshly pressed juice. Broomfield honey on sale. Free. Orchard, Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events

Looking Ahead...

Oct 17 The Original Harlem Globetrotter Spread Game Tour. 7.30pm.

Magic Pass, to play with the Globetrotters available. The O2, SE10, 0DX. www.theo2.co.uk Oct 26 Fireman Sam Saves the Circus Millfield Theatre, N18 1PJ. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk Dec 2-Jan 1 Christmas at Kenwood Light trail. Kenwood, NW3 7JR. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ whats-on/kenwood-christmas-atkenwood Dec 19-23 Dine With Santa It’s what it says on the tin. A treat for you and them. Adults £38, children £28. Knebworth, SG1 2AX. www.knebworthhouse.com Dec 22-31 Disney on Ice: Dream Big The O2, Peninsula Square, SE10. www.theo2.co.uk Dec 24-31 The Nutcracker Aimed at families. Sadler’s Wells, EC1R 4TN. www.sadlerswells.com Oct 14, Nov 12, Dec 10 Science Fiction Astronights Space-themed sleepover for 7-11s. £70. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk Keep an eye on…

Open House Festival. Popular venues get booked up. https://open-city.org.uk/openhouse-festival

...And Further Afield July 29-31 Campo Sancho Festival Music, singing, dancing and art.

Family-friendly with Panic Circus, Crafty Kid’s Factory, bushcraft courses, kids disco and Teen Spirit clubhouse. East Herts. www.sanchopanza.org/camposancho

These venues often have holiday family events

No details as we went to press Pollocks Toy Museum www.pollockstoymuseum. co.uk Little Angel Theatre www.littleangeltheatre.com The Cartoon Museum www.cartoonmuseum.org Dugdale Centre www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Bank of England Museum www.bankofengland.co.uk Museum of London (check out family walks). EC2Y 5HN. www.museumoflondon.org.uk National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Rd, SW3 4HT. Character meets www.nam.ac.uk Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey KT8 9AU. Character meets and talks www.hrp.org.uk

Purple Pages Parties & Celebrations Little Supernovas create imaginative parties with an adventure tailored to your child’s wishes and theme and include all their favourite magical characters and stories. Holiday Clubs too.

Our parties incorporate action storytelling, music, props, drama, movement and plenty of giggles. www.littlesupernovas.com/parties hello@littlesupernovas.com N-Sun Café (Ballards Lane, Finchley, N3) kids cafe with soft play, spacious venue for parties, classes and activities too.

07399947748. https://n-sun.co.uk

National Centre for Circus Arts The National Centre for Circus Arts is a space to explore and learn all things circus from Flying Trapeze to Tightwire to Juggling. We offer opportunities and experiences for all ages including: Experience Days, Birthday Parties, Sensory Circus, Recreational Courses, Summer Schools and Corporate Workshops. Whether a beginner or advanced, we aim to cater for all accessibilities. Get in touch info@nationalcircus.org.uk, 02076134141.

After Sch Club/Education Magic of India Hindi classes Speak from the first lesson.

No previous knowledge needed. Small group zoom classes. Missed class: support & recording. Classes: 5 to 7 years, 8 to 14 years, 15-18 years and adult.

Private lessons too. Free trial class.

Quick learning Holiday clubs too. www.magicofindia.org

Ant Learning Highly sought after and recommended professional tutoring, experienced in developing and preparing children to learn, lead and succeed all around. Reading, English, Maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning, ages 3 ½ -13. Book a trial and free Zebra Ceramics assessment today 0208 050 5798. www.antlearning.co.uk

After-School Learning The After-School Learning Centre caters for all children aged 4-18 and Is totally dedicated to helping your child achieve the best grades possible in English, Maths, Science, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning and Mandarin through personalised and tailored one-to-one tutoring. Located in North London and Southgate. www.afterschoollearning.com

Vincent & Frida Art appreciation lessons designed to ignite in your child, a love for art and its stories. Art will become much more than pictures to them and your child will enter the world of wonder. We offer private lessons, holiday workshops and family sessions. Discover more www.vincentandfrida.com familiesonline.co.uk

Music

Stage Academy

Hendon Highgate Islington Muswell Hill Stoke Newington

Building selfconfidence, teamwork, · Enjoyable, active, fun musical learning based on traditional and classical music ambition and · Fosters social interaction, language development and – for a brilliant self-esteem in small age-related year groups responsibility, start and long-term · High quality music education—broad, structured, proven methodology we unlock the success in music! · Foundation for our hugely successful instrumental programme potential inside every young Develop your child’s · Professional musicians, specialists in Colourstrings/ Kodaly/child development person, giving them the chance musical talent in · Long-term success on instruments 5-6yrs to 19yrs to be the stars of tomorrow - on Kodaly-based music www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk Call Yvonne 020 Book 8444 9435 stage or off. a free trial to kindergartens and instrumental Colourstrings … a wonderfully imaginative musical journey... discover the Stage Academy programmes from six monthsHelping – 19 children to long-term musical success since 1995 difference - and to secure your years. Call 020 8444 9435 for a place for September. trial of 3 discounted lessons or Act, sing, dance and succeed! email admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk https://stageacademy.co.uk www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk

Colourstrings

Rolling bookings... apply now to start soon!

Music Kindergartens ... … for babies, toddlers and children!

Sports & Excercise St Kiernan’s Gaelic Football Club... ...is an inclusive, fun environment for kids and adults to learn how to play this high intensity game. Teams from under-6s to senior men and ladies of all abilities. We welcome newcomers to all age groups and the sport can be picked up easily from our excellent coaches. Summer training at our new facility at King George Playing Fields, Barnet Lane, EN5. Winter training is at Woodhouse College, North Finchley.

Call Chris Byrne on 07984 184003 or Declan Ryan on 07818 023639.

Performing Arts Perform Classes Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s.

Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination.

Holiday clubs. Visit www.perform. org.uk/try to book a FREE class.

Venues: N1, N2, N4, N5, NEW classes in N7, N8, N10, N11, N12, NEW classes in N13, N14, N19, N20, N21, N22, EN2, EN5 EC1, NW1, NW3, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW11 Coming Soon: N1 Thurs 6.05pm, N7 Tues 4pm & 5.05pm, N13 Thurs 4pm & 5.05pm, NW5 Mon 4pm & 5.05pm, NW2 Thurs 4pm & 5.05pm.

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

Stagecoach - Highgate We aim to bring out the best in your child and we’re not just talking about their new-found skills in dancing, singing and acting. Our students also develop excellent communication skills, grow in self-esteem and enjoy the benefits of improved confidence! We welcome children of all abilities from the age of four to 16 years and offer two-week trials. To find out more visit our website at www.stagecoach. co.uk/highgate

Achieve Arts Unlock creativity with our five-day action-packed holiday course.

Puppetry, scriptwriting, voiceover animation, Shakespeare, and special guest workshops. We aim to make it the best week of their summer!

MUSWELL HILL, July 25-29.

CROUCH END Aug 15-19.

Fee for week £280.00. 15% sibling discount. 6+. Book at www. achievearts.co.uk Achieve Arts run weekly LAMDA classes for ages 4 upwards. Book a free trial at www.achievearts.co.uk

Multi-Activity Future In Your House Multi-activity holiday camp.

Imaginative programme for a packed month of fun and friendship. Earlybird discount. https://futureinyourhouse.co.uk

Schools & Nurseries Hyland House School A Christian, independent school, we empower our 2 to 11-year-olds to aim high and dream big. Our children are achieving excellence.

Our Early Years is Ofsted-graded Outstanding. Years 1-6 are graded Good. Please contact us for more information or to arrange a visit.

See more at bit.ly/HylandVid. Hyland House School is at 97 Holcombe Road, Tottenham, London, N17 9AB. 020 8520 4186/ email info@hylandhouseschool.org www.hylandhouseschool.org

Mars Montessori Mars Montessori in Angel is a small bilingual FrenchEnglish Montessori nursery. We provide very highquality childcare in a nurturing environment in two languages. In September 2018, we introduced an Introduction to Mandarin programme, and we are proud of dark blue the brilliant take up. In April 2018, #1F438F we were given the highest possible rating of OUTSTANDING by Ofsted in every category. 020 7099 0452 light violet www.bilingualnurseries.com #7E85C0

North Bridge House Schools Independent school for children aged 2 to 18, on six locations for different age groups. We understand that success is not simply defined by outstanding academic achievement, but by every pupil finding a direction in life that truly reflects their unique talents and personality. Call admissions to check for occasional immediate places on 020 7428 1520. www.northbridgehouse.com

Vacation Celtic Harmony Overnight Stays Step into an adventure with an overnight stay in our prehistory settlement, with home comforts.

Enjoy a batwalk and storytelling round the fire and wake up to breakfast in our beautiful Celtic roundhouses.

Exclusive this year 3-day, 2-night break Prehistory Family Adventure with workshops, available Aug 9-20. www.celticharmony.org

"I saw you in Families magazine and..."

Make 2022 the ye Health & Wellbeing Jennifer’s story!

Hadley Wood Hospital

Jennifer and her Husband have fostered for Barnet s

has transformed her family’s outlook on life and imp Expert consultants in a discreet tranquil setting. Competitivelypriced diagnostics, imaging and surgery. A dynamic healthcare facility - part of the Royal Free London - Private Patients Unit.

Positively welcoming Actively respectful Clearly Communicating Visibly Reassuring www.royalfreehadleywood.com Email rf-tr.privateenquiries@nhs. net Why I chose to foster

I feel blessed to be healthy and to have had a lovely family and wanted to the same opportunity. I had also wanted to foster for many years before, b wasn’t quite sure at the time, and we needed both of us to be on board an

Family Life

I started out applying to be a short-term carer but have since taken on car Ella who is with us long term now, we felt our family would be a perfect ma year 10 and will still be with us when she goes off to university.

Barnet Fostering secondary blue #496CB2

You could have what it takeslight toblue #9AD4F3 become a Foster The Grove Carer, but Ourunless offer you to you: you’ll never know get in FONT FAMILY The Grove Nursery touch! Find out• how fostering can 24/7 support and Preschool offers CENTURY GOTHIC REGULAR fit into your life• and what it can add Extensive training CENTURY GOTHIC BOLD space to explore and to your life. Every child deserves a • Dedicated grow with Forest safe and loving home Barnet Earn up to socialand worker school sessions, are on a mission to provide the best£581 • Peer support yoga, music, drama, possible care for our looked after per week French and Spanish. children. Get in touch.

Specialist providers www.barnet.gov.uk/fostering, Join our fostering community today and see ho of education with flexible childcare email fostering@barnet.gov.uk Email: fostering@bar options for 0-5s. Open 8-6.30pm 020 8359 6274. www.BARNET.GOV.UK/ FOSTERI Monday to Friday all year round. Organic home cooked food Quality Assured, Baby & Toddler HEY (healthy early years) nursery with good and outstanding Ofsted reports.

Humpty Dumpty Singalong With Islington, N1 3DF. 02072264037. live ukulele music, puppets, bubbles www.thegrovenursery.co.uk and more! Sessions for U-5s and U-1s. Islington and Tufnell Park.

Book at www.happity.co.uk/theBroomfield School humpty-dumpty-singalong. Info Open Evening - thehumptydumptysingalong@ October 4 hotmail.co.uk We aim to provide Tiny Talk Learn to communicate outstanding with your baby before they can secondary speak, at an award-winning TinyTalk education for baby signing class. Interactive music our diverse and class and sensory activities, plus time dynamic community, with emphasis for a cuppa. on high standards, inclusion and To appear in Purple Pages www.TinyTalk.co.uk/zahrak supporting social mobility. We offer a broad, balanced curriculum and get in Purple touch Pages To appear extensive enrichment activities.

07359 133954 office@broomfield.enfield.sch.uk get in touch editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk 07359 133954 editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk

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North Bridge House

Join our Saturday Open Day Fairs

North Bridge House is on a constant journey of getting to know and understand every child as an individual, realising their true academic and personal potential through specialist provision at every school stage.

NURSERY & PRE-PREP WEST HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS SAT 17 SEPTEMBER

NURSERY & PRE-PREP HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS SAT 1 OCTOBER

PREP SCHOOL REGENT’S PARK 4 - 13 YEARS SAT 24 SEPTEMBER

SENIOR HAMPSTEAD 11 - 16 YEARS SAT 17 SEPTEMBER

SENIOR CANONBURY 11 - 18 YEARS SAT 24 SEPTEMBER

Book an open day at northbridgehouse.com/open or call 020 7428 1520 Subject stalls, school tours, taster activities and talks from the Senior Leadership Team.