Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list at www.bit.ly/ND24recipients
Welcome
Winter is nearly done! March can still be cold and dreary but at least finer weather is just around the corner… it’s time to dust off the cobwebs and get the family outside! And Easter is coming! Make sure you get out your calendar and check our What’s On section for the Easter weekend and school holidays. As always, there are some fabulous events and activities for families happening locally and across London.
Are you wondering how AI like ChatGPT can be helpful in your child’s education? Should your child be using it and, if so, what for exactly? Find out more in our Education feature. More and more children are suffering emotionally-based school refusal; if this is your child, learn what you can do to help.
We all want our children to be confident. For some children, confidence comes naturally, others have to work at it – with their parents’ support. Discover some useful tips inside.
Finally, in this issue, we have Kent and Stowe Kids’ Gardening Sets and National Geographic Build Your Own Volcano Kits to giveaway! Apply inside. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.
Linda
Editor, Families South East
This product is made of material from well-managed, FSC®-certified forests and other controlled sources.
Families South East London is a franchise of Families Print Ltd of 75 Lisbon Avenue, Twickenham, TW2 5HL. Families is a registered trademark of Families Print Ltd. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. The contents of Families South East London are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families South East London. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but the franchise owner and Families Print Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
ChatGPT and your child
By Erin Miller
An increasing area of concern for both schools and parents is how children are incorporating AI into their learning, particularly when they are learning independently.
While AI offers tremendous opportunities to enhance learning, it is also essential to be aware of the potential negative impacts that AI may have. This article explores some of the risks of children using AI in their learning but also provides some guidance for when and how children can use AI in a productive and useful way.
As a teacher, I now frequently use AI tools to assist me in my lesson planning and they have been hugely beneficial in saving my time.
The reason why I am confident in using AI tools is because when AI produces a response, I am able to fact-check it myself. After over ten years of teaching, it is clear to me when AI has produced erroneous information or not responded to my prompt with the information I’m looking for.
However, children, especially younger children, will not have developed this critical faculty as they do not yet have subject expertise. Therefore, children blindly relying on information produced by AI is not conducive to learning.
The main lesson that I impart to my students surrounding the use of AI is: AI cannot do your thinking for you.
Children at all ages need to understand that AI provides a great platform for researching factual information but using AI to come
Prompts and context
Here are a few tips to share with your child if they are using AI tools in their independent learning:
Use precise prompts. AI tools are only as good as the prompts they ar given. The more precise the prompt, the more accurate the response.
For example, if your child is researching the Tudors, instead of using the prompt ‘tell me about the Tudors,’ suggest they are more specific and use a prompt such as ‘give autobiographical details about Henry VIII’. If your child is researching a wide area, discuss prompts they can use and design them together before beginning to use the AI tool.
Provide context. If AI tools are not providing the desired response, try adding more context. For example, if your child is researching the Romans, which is a huge area of history, they should include places and dates to get more specific information e.g. ‘Tell me about the Roman invasion of Britain in AD43.’ This may sound obvious but children will often simply search ‘Roman Britain’ or similar.
up with ideas in creative tasks puts a stop to thinking.
The same applies to tasks where children are being asked to make interpretations or give their opinions on something. There is no viable shortcut for thinking, as the process of deep thought is invaluable in forming neural pathways, which is how children remember information.
AI tools are a part of our present and future and children should engage with them, where appropriate. But schools and parents should be aligned in how to introduce children to AI and help them engage with it safely and responsibly.
Your child’s school may have an AI policy in place, which is worth reviewing if you have any concerns. As this technology continues to evolve, schools are likely to be open to hearing your thoughts and feedback on their AI policies and usage. So don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s school to continue this important conversation!
Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.
Further guidance for AI use
If your child is using AI tools in their independent learning, try the following to help them to use AI effectively and responsibly:
Encourage your child to go into the sources referenced by the AI and read the full source to check that the information given by the AI tool is accurate.
Start conversations about plagiarism early. Unfortunately, AI has provided a way for children to plagiarise and disguise this plagiarisation. AI is able to produce whole essays or examples of creative writing and these can be put through ‘humanising’ tools, which give the essays a more human voice, making plagiarism harder to detect. Conversations at home about plagiarism will go a long way in helping your child understand the seriousness of academic dishonesty and the harm it will do their own learning in the long term.
Discuss with your child whether AI will help them in their learning task. AI is unlikely to help genuine learning in creative tasks that require imagination but is a fantastic tool for factual research.
Sharing behaviour may relate to counting skills
Young children who are good with numbers are more likely to share valued items with friends.
Researchers from universities across the US conducted the groundbreaking research and concluded in a study published in the Child Development Journal that counting skills were the single biggest predictor of ‘fair sharing behaviour’ among children ages 3 to 5.
The findings suggest one of the reasons some youngsters struggle to share is because their counting skills are still developing.
Study author Dr Nadia Chernyak said: ‘This is the first research to investigate whether symbolic counting exerts a causal impact on sharing behaviour. We reasoned that children who do not share fairly would benefit from the modelling of proper counting behaviours thereby providing them with a behavioural tool that would facilitate fair sharing.’
More info: www.neurosciencenews.com
Developing your child’s emotional intelligence (EQ)
By Ngaire Telford
A recent article in Inc. Magazine concluded that ‘emotional intelligence (EQ) is the best predictor for a child’s future success’ and should therefore be the ‘focus if you want to raise happy, successful kids.’
Sir Richard Branson, Founder of Virgin Group, famously left school at age 16. He is a prime, although perhaps extreme example of someone who illustrates that the school a child attends is less important than the EQ skills they acquire – skills for which the crucial foundations are all laid in early childhood.
This thinking is based primarily on the findings of The Dunedin Study, considered to be one of the most comprehensive and longlasting longitudinal research projects into human development globally.
This pioneering 1972 study assessed more than 1037 babies throughout childhood and at intervals during adulthood and, decades later, it is clear that the course of the lives of the children that participated can largely be traced to their health, environment and temperament as children.
Childhood self-control
Dr Henry Goldstein, a General Paediatrician and Adolescent Medicine Fellow based in Queensland, Australia, commented that, among other findings, the Dunedin Study ‘found that self-control is a better indicator of positive life outcomes than intelligence or socioeconomic status. Self-control is a personal trait but it can be influenced by parenting, education and early years intervention programmes, with children who receive support and guidance in developing these skills tending to fare better as adults.’ In other words, self-control can be learned.
EQ is a skill, not a trait
The Inc. article also refers to EQ, of which self-control forms part, as a learnable skill with the critical foundations laid in the early years of childhood. It cites the words of Professor Daniel Goleman, who popularised the EQ concept in his 1995 landmark book Emotional Intelligence, Why It Can Matter More Than IQ.
Professor Goleman’s model of EQ involves focusing half inside (self-awareness and self-management) and half on being mindful of and empathetic to others (social awareness and relationship management). He stresses that these are learned and learnable abilities, with ‘mindfulness being very helpful as it enables you to tune into your feelings.’
EQ as the ‘differentiator’
So what’s more important? IQ, EQ or both? Professor Goleman’s view is that IQ and what is learned at school is a basic threshold for, say, getting and doing a job. He goes on to say: ‘after that, IQ doesn’t have that much impact. The higher you go in an organisation, the more emotional intelligence matters. For top leadership jobs, emotional intelligence abilities are eighty to ninety percent of the competency model.’
In answer, then, IQ vs EQ is not ‘either/or’, it is ‘not only... but also.’
It’s clearly fundamental to develop ‘the whole child’ during the early years education period and that ‘soft skills’ require arguably more attention than traditional cognitive and academic development. Similar to Professor Goleman’s description of IQ as ‘basically threshold,’ we consider it as a ‘qualifier,’ with EQ being the ‘differentiator’ that will set children apart, especially in a world of AI.
IQ can more readily follow EQ development than vice versa, i.e. a young child who feels loved and secure and is confident, selfaware, reflective, positive, curious, motivated and resilient will more quickly make academic progress. So, developing EQ skills doesn’t come at the expense of developing a child’s more innate IQ but helps enhance it.
A model for developing EQ
Our school sees the development of children’s EQ as an integration of three inter-related skillsets: social, emotional and selfregulatory/executive function. In turn, the self-regulatory/executive function has three primary strands: inhibitory control, working memory and cognitive flexibility.
As research has unequivocally proven, the crux of developing these three strands is a child-led, experiential, play-based learning approach, especially for younger years and into Key Stage 1. Driven by our exclusive focus on Early Childhood Education, we have developed extensive expertise in this area.
In addition, our curriculum and modus operandi combine countless elements that maximise children’s social and emotional skills, including:
Role modelling by all staff and children (especially the older ones) to create a happy, friendly, positive, loving and caring environment; Nine golden rules, introduced from Kindergarten, which form a moral and behavioural compass for everyone: compromise, forgive, be gentle, help, be honest, be kind, listen, share and strive;
Judicious discussion about topics that deal with social and emotional challenges;
Plentiful outdoor learning and play, which greatly supports and enhances children’s wellbeing;
The leadership and social responsibility roles that come with, uniquely, being the oldest children at the school while still very young;
Activities that introduce additional wellbeing concepts including healthy eating; yoga club and workshops; mindfulness sessions, creativity and working with one’s hands.
In light of the dramatic societal increase in young people and children dealing with mental health issues and/or having some aspect of special educational need, there is no doubt that the development of children’s EQ is more important than ever.
Ngaire Telford is Headteacher at Herne Hill School in South London which specialises in expert Early Childhood Education for boys and girls ages 2 to 7 in a Kindergarten and Pre-Prep school. For more information, visit www.hernehillschool.co.uk
Supporting a child with emotionally-based school avoidance (EBSA)
By Lucy Alexandra Spencer and Francesca Wells
Emotionally-based school avoidance (EBSA) can be a distressing experience both for children and parents. Here’s how to effectively engage with your child and support them through the different stages of this challenge.
Initial hesitation and reluctance (over 90% attendance)
In the early stages, reluctance to go to school is often accompanied by minor complaints about feeling unwell. When this happens, your child needs a safe space for conversation. Sit down with your child and ask open questions about their feelings towards school. Use active listening techniques like nodding, maintaining eye contact and summarising what they say. Key at this stage is validating their feelings by acknowledging that it’s okay to feel anxious and enquiring if there is any action you can take to help.
Increased non-attendance (less than 90% attendance)
As anxiety escalates, your child may either exhibit more pronounced signs of distress or just shut down completely. Ask about scenarios that cause the most difficulty and discuss strategies to help them. Offer to share your child’s concerns with their school and discuss what support the school can provide. It’s very important for your child to identify adults who they feel comfortable with and for you to feed this back to the school.
Refusal to attend
As a rule, we try to avoid the term ‘refusal’ as it suggests wilfulness, which can unfairly stigmatise a child. Understand that a child is not simply refusing school; they are likely experiencing significant emotional distress. Validate these feelings with statements such as: ‘I can see how much this is affecting you.’ Most importantly, book a meeting with the school to discuss
strategies like ELSA support, reduced timetables, therapeutic support or alternative provision.
Building a support network
Throughout the process, encourage your child to share their feelings and stay connected to trusted adults like teachers, family members and peers both from school and out of school settings. Helping them to maintain a collaborative support network is hugely valuable – just don’t forget to do the same yourself.
Lucy Spencer is founder of Education Boutique (www.educationboutique.co.uk), which provides in-person tutoring for children, schools and local authorities, designed to meet individual needs and ensuring that each child can access the right resources at their own pace. If you need support before a meeting with your child’s school, please contact them for free advice.
Raising a confident child
By Poppy O’Neill
Confidence comes in many forms - from public speaking to asking for help - and what it takes is different for everybody. As parents, there’s a lot we can do to help foster confidence in our children. With small daily habits, they can develop the type of true confidence that they’ll use throughout their lives. Here are my go-to tips for raising confident kids.
Be patient
True confidence takes time and patience to build. When your child is finding something challenging, slow it right down.
Knowing they can take a step back, say ‘no’ or back out entirely allows your child to progress through baby steps. For example, if there’s anxiety around a school trip, explore their options. Is there something that could make the day easier? What would it be like not to go? When a child can sense they have a bit of wriggle room, it takes the pressure off and helps them make braver choices.
Talk about a time you overcame low confidence
Kids don’t always like talking about feelings, let’s face itconversations about mental health can feel heavy and awkward.
Talking about your own experiences takes the pressure off and lets your child see how someone like them conquered a similar problem.
Sharing stories about your own inner world will help your child feel understood and less alone. Even if your experiences are quite different from theirs, emotions like fear and bravery are something we all share.
Look for ways to make it a tiny bit easier
As much as we’d like to be able to solve all our child’s problems, encouraging them to try to problem solve builds resilience and confidence. We don’t need to sit back and watch them struggle though.
Think instead in terms of supporting them to work things out independently and how you can make things less daunting for them. This could be sitting together while they study for a
dreaded exam, checking in to let them know you’re thinking of them or talking through a big decision with them.
Be on their side
When children feel sure that you are always on their team, that you will treat their wins with pride and their losses with gentleness, it becomes easier for them to take leaps of faith towards their challenges.
One of the worst things about trying and failing is feeling alone, with the difficult emotions failure brings. Equally, it can be isolating to excel; winning can bring its own challenges. Being a stalwart supporter of your child shows them they are definitely not alone, whatever happens.
Gently nudge
When the time is right - and you can trust yourself to know when this is - nudge your child towards what is difficult or challenging for them. By the time we become adults, we know from experience that fear can hold us back from some of the best parts of life; but your child hasn’t yet learned this.
Without shaming or rushing, help your child to understand that trying things is often the only way to know for sure. Never force them to do something as this usually backfires. Instead, after building the foundations for confidence together, be the one who shows them they’re ready to fly.
Poppy O’Neill has written several books on mental wellbeing for children and adults, including the bestsellers Don’t Worry, Be Happy and You’re a Star. Her most recent book, Be Confident is published by Vie Books.
FIND MORE WAYS TO PLAY IN SOUTH-EAST LONDON
Whether it’s with friends or with family, discover a world of fun for all ages this school holiday. With 13 locations across Greenwich and Lewisham, you’ll find hassle-free fun for everyone.
Find your nearest leisure centre at better.org.uk
Top local kids’ classes
Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes in Blackheath, Beckenham, East Dulwich, Herne Hill and Sydenham
Fun-packed group electronic keyboard lessons for 4-8 year olds. Read, write & play music with its unique scheme! Term classes, holiday courses, online tutorials. FREE Trial + 10% off first term’s fees.
Contact: Mrs Ali Edwards 01732 457100 mail@funkymonkey.info www.funkymonkey.info
Perform in Bromley, Greenwich, Lambeth and Lewisham boroughs
Try a FREE confidence-boosting Perform class in more than twenty locations across South East London and Bromley. Using drama, dance and singing, classes focus on developing the 4 Cs –confidence, communication, co-ordination and concentration.
www.perform.org.uk/try
Pop School and Stage Academy (PSSA) in Beckenham and Crystal Palace
PSSA provides performing arts training for stage and screen. Classes for ages 4-16 year in Beckenham (Fri/Sun) and Crystal Palace (Mon). Students are working towards a professionally staged production of High School Musical Jr in July.
Contact: 07943 656092 info@pssa.co.uk
www.pssa.co.uk
Grafton Dance Academy in Dulwich
Grafton Dance Centre is a historic, warm and inviting space that provides opportunities to dance, keep fit and nurture your well-being, all under one roof. All ages welcome.
An award-winning music school, where children and adults can now enjoy exciting Group Drum Lessons on electronic drum kits! Save 30% compared to one-to-one tuition. These drum sessions are held all year including school holidays.
Mother Nature Science Holiday Camps across SE London
Award-winning STEAM school holiday camps, which inspire children ages 5-12 with a lifelong love of science and learning. Running school holidays (9am to 3.30pm - extended days available) in various locations in South East London. Quote 10OFFFAMILIESMAG for a special discount!
Safe, fun, hands-on camps!
www.mnature.co.uk
forget to say you saw them in Families South
Take Flight Academy in Forest Hill/Sydenham, Honor Oak Park/Crofton Park
Founded and led by West End professionals, Take Flight Academy provides top quality training in singing, dance and drama for ages 4-18. Classes build life skills, creativity and confidence in every child. FREE taster available!
HAYA offers industry leading classes for actors and has created a place where young people ages 5 to 18 can explore the brilliant world of acting and all it has to offer. Young people can discover their true potential, embracing their creativity and learning actor skills for both screen and stage.
Contact: info@thehuntacademy.co.uk
www.thehuntacademy.co.uk
South East YOUR CLUB OR CLASS HERE?
Would you like to promote your club or classes in our next issue and reach 1,000s of local parents?
DANCE CENTRE
Founded and led by West End professionals, Take Flight Academy provides top quality training in singing, dance and drama for children ages 4 to 18 in Forest Hill/Sydenham and Honor Oak Park/Crofton Park.
Take Flight is THE place for children who want to build life skills, creativity and confidence and can also help provide a foundation for entry into the industry.
Classes cater for any ability and everyone gets the most out of their experience. FREE taster available!
information at www.takeflightacademy.co.uk
3 hours, 14/15/16/17 April, 4-8 yr old
HAYA is an industry-leading training ground for aspiring actors, offering tuition in stage and screen performance in Brockley. With a strong emphasis on acting rather than musical theatre, HAYA equips students with essential skills like stage combat, audition techniques and working with film, TV and theatre texts. Providing students with exciting professional opportunities via its close industry ties and professional agency, HAYA is shaping the next generation of top-tier actors and creatives. More information at www.thehuntacademy.co.uk
Herne Hill, Streatham, Beckenham, Dulwich, Clapham
Must-have new baby products to make parenting easier
By Mallory Reynolds-Trout
Knowing what to buy as a new parents can be a challenge. So here is our pick of the latest must-haves for 2025.
Oak Warm Brown Tripp Trapp
Highchair from Stokke
The iconic Tripp Trapp® brings your little one right up to your table and into the heart of your family to connect and develop. Crafted from European wood with sustainability in mind, it is built to last and grow with your child. The newest variation is the beautiful Oak Warm Brown, made from oak wood. Available from £245 at www.stokke.com
Olive & Bud Clothing
Amidst the beautiful chaos of raising little ones, Olive & Bud recognises the need for simplicity, convenience and sustainability. Their oversized, long lasting, comfy clothes in neutral and muted colours are beautiful. New launches include sherpa gilets (£45), gingham dungarees (£29), cosy pramsuits (£40) in popcorn and hotchoccy, with pjs and sleepsuits in navy and caramel (£33). www.oliveandbud.co.uk
PRENTA Shoes
PRENTA’s new collection of shoes seamlessly blends a rich colour tone with a minimalist aesthetic, signature silhouettes and sustainable materials, celebrating a fun and vibrant attitude. Each shoe has been meticulously designed and created in England to offer the ultimate support. www.prentashoes.co.uk
The SmarTrike Traveler
SmarTrike recently launched the SmarTrike Traveler - the groundbreaking stroller that transforms into a trike in seconds, with the push of a button. From baby’s first trip out to toddler’s first ride, it transforms seamlessly from a fully functioning, super lightweight (7.6kg), foldable stroller, to an independent trike. Once little ones are ready, they can pedal away at their own pace! From £399 at www.smartrike.co.uk
Daisy First Aid Kits
Daisy First Aid have launched their eighty two piece Children’s First Aid Kit for just £20. Filled with all the essentials for any outing with the little ones, it’s the perfect size to fit in your changing bag. Contents include plasters, ice packs, tweezers, scissors, saline cleansing wipes, eye pads, gloves, safety pins and even bravery stickers. Order direct from www.daisyfirstaid.com
Healthy Mama Happy Baba Nutritional Supplement
Healthy Mama Happy Baba is a pioneering nutritional supplement designed for expectant and new mothers. Created by an expert nutritionist, Ann-Marie Marshall after her own challenging pregnancy, this unique vegan elixir combines thirty eight key superfoods, vitamins, minerals, probiotics and natural galactagogues to support both mother and baby from pre-conception through to post-birth. Produced in the UK and available from www.healthymamahappybaba.co.uk at £74.99 for a monthly supply.
The YOYO3 Stroller from Stokke
Exciting additions to the new YOYO3 stroller include larger storage space under the seat, a peek-a-boo window, an extended canopy for better sun protection and extra suspension for a smooth ride. Available from £339 from www.stokke.com
The Ultimate Weaning & Toddler Cookbook by Charlotte Stirling-Reed
Regular speaker at The Baby Show, Charlotte Stirling-Reed is set to return this spring with her latest cookbook, The Ultimate Weaning & Toddler Cookbook. Filled with one hundred new, simple, nutrition-packed recipes to help you put good food first in the early years, you’ll no longer need to fall back on the same old processed foods, making cooking for your baby and toddler easier than ever. Published by Vermilion and available from 6 March, RRP £22. www.srnutrition.co.uk
Mallory Reynolds-Trout is the Show Director of The Baby Show, the UK’s bestloved pregnancy, baby and parenting event which returns to the Excel London (7-9 March), the NEC Birmingham (9-11 May) and Olympia London (24-26 October) For more information visit www.thebabyshow.co.uk
What’s on
Compiled by Robina Cowan
All details are as provided when going to press. However, in case of changed plans, do double-check before setting out.
ONGOING
Daily until 25 Mar
Helios at the Old Royal Naval College
Looking for some winter sun? Helios is a new seven-metre celestial artwork created by the celebrated British installation artist Luke Jerram. Old Royal Naval College SE10 9NN www.ornc.org
Daily until 1 Jun
REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground at Southbank
Enter an endless world of play and invention in a limitless recycled playground where children and their grown-ups tap into their imaginations. Ages 6 mths–11 years. Belvedere Road SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk
Daily
The Sky Tonight at Royal Observatory Greenwich
A live show taking visitors on a tour of what can be seen in the night sky, complete with a fly-out to the edge of the visible universe. Ages 7+.
Delve into life onboard the ship through eye-witness accounts of sailors and hands-on objects. Ages 7+.
The Queen’s Walk SE1 2JH www.iwm.org.uk/hms-belfast
Story Seekers at Imperial War Museum
Every one of the objects at Imperial War Museum London has a story to tell. Follow a trail to discover compelling real-life stories of bravery. Ages 5+, FREE drop-in. IWM, Lambeth Road SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk
Weekends and School Holidays
Ted’s Space Adventure at Royal Observatory Greenwich
Explore the solar system with a bear named Ted, learning about the things we find there and how they affect us. Ages 3-7.
Meet the captain, chat with the cook, and take a tour with Nannie the Figurehead!
King William Walk SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark
WEEKLY
Every Mon to 31 Mar
Family Freestyle at Sadler’s Wells Theatre Dance together and have fun with your little ones in a workshop run by professional dance artists. Ages 2-4. Sadler’s Wells Theatre EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com
Every Tue
Rhyme Time at Forest Hill Library
Drop in every week for joyful, hosted singing sessions. Suitable for babies,
toddlers and pre-schoolers. 10am FREE; donations welcome. Forest Hill Library SE23 3HZ www.fhlibrary.co.uk/rhyme-time
Every Wed
Parent and Baby Mornings at Vauxhall City Farm
Pub-style quiz mornings for parents with under-fives, for prizes donated by JoJo Maman Bébé. Book first. Tyers Street SE11 5HS www.vauxhallcityfarm.org
Natter with a Nav at Bellingham Family Hub
Are you looking for a welcoming space to connect, chat and unwind? This regular, navigated session is the perfect opportunity for parents, carers, children and young people to drop in for support and advice. 3.15-4.30pm, FREE, drop in. Email: kashmir.thethi@lewisham.gov.uk 109-111 Randlesdown Road SE6 3HB www.futuremen.org/future-dads
Every Thu Baby Bounce at Forest Hill Library
Join Simone every week for songs, stories, nursery rhymes, play and bubbles. Mums, dads and carers welcome with under-fives. 2-3pm, FREE drop-in. Forest Hill Library SE23 3HZ www.fhlibrary.co.uk/baby-bounce
Every Fri
Family Fridays at Dulwich Picture Gallery
Join gallery artists for weekly, expressive art-inspired activities for families. FREE.
Guided tours bringing to life stories from the museum. Ages 5+. Romney Road, Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/national-maritimemuseum
Family Craft Activities at Horniman Museum and Gardens
Learn about some of the 350,000 objects in the Horniman’s collections, and discover more about music, nature, wildlife, and the world around us as you get stuck into some crafts and have fun at these volunteer-run sessions for all the family. Ages 3+, FREE drop-ins. London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk
Every Sun
Art Sundays at Dulwich Picture Gallery
Be inspired to make art together as a family in these weekly creative workshops at the Gallery. Ages 7-12, FREE.
Family Workshops at Shakespeare’s Globe Shakespeare’s Macbeth comes to life through activities and games in some fun and practical workshops for families. Ages 5-8 and 9-11. See website for dates.
New Globe Walk SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com
1-2 Mar
Family Fun Weekends at Cutty Sark
Climb aboard for family-friendly workshops and activities for all ages on the first weekend of every month.
King William Walk SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark
1-30 Mar
Migration Museum at Lewisham Shopping Centre
A fascinating photograph and exhibit-filled insight into how the movement of people to and from the United Kingdom across the ages has made us who we are - as individuals and as nations. Thu, Fri & Sat. Lewisham Shopping Centre SE13 7HB www.migrationmuseum.org
4-16 Mar
The Windrush Front Room Exhibition at Woolwich Works Learn about the history of Woolwich and the African & Caribbean Front Room in this exhibition and series of activities where you can meet the curator, authors and more. www.woolwich.works/whats-on
7-9 Mar
The Baby Show London at Excel London
Complete with hundreds of exhibitors, exclusive show offers, an abundance of celebrity appearances, expert advice and the opportunity to try before you buy, The Baby Show is a must-go for all new and expectant parents.
Royal Victoria Dock E16 1XL www.thebabyshow.co.uk
8 Mar
SENsory Sailors at National Maritime Museum
A monthly session for families with children with special educational needs and disabilities, led by a SEND specialist. Romney Road SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/national-maritimemuseum
15 Mar
Family Concert at Sinfonia Smith Square
Take a time-twisting musical adventure, with live music written by
composers who lived and worked in London. Meet the musicians and try some instruments!
Smith Square SW1P 3HA www.sinfoniasmithsq.org.uk
16 Mar
Big Fish Little Fish Pirate Family Rave
Family fun for the post-rave generation of parents, on a dancefloor with bubbles, giant balloons, themed crafts and a cracking music set. Dressing-up encouraged! Families with 0-8 yrs. Peckham Levels SE15 www.bigfishlittlefishevents.com
Baby Bach Concert
Critically-acclaimed live classical concerts for babies and their grownups. Babies can ‘join in’ with as much noise as they like! St Mary Magdalen SE1 3UW www.bachtobaby.com
21 Mar
Tiny Treasures Workshop at Woolwich Works
Create memories, friendships and craft gifts with your baby. www.woolwich.works/whats-on
22 Mar
Mum2mum Market
Nearly new baby and children’s clothes, toys, books and equipment. Book a stall to make space in your house, or bag a bargain.
Hayes Free Church BR2 7HU www.mum2mummarket.co.uk
Neon Brush Kids at Glaziers Hall
A creative and family-friendly environment filled with music, stencils, brushes and fluorescent paints. Make your own glow-in-thedark canvases to take home.
Glaziers Hall, Montague Close SE1 9DD https://feverup.com/m/254249
27-30 Mar
Deptford Literature Festival
Four days of performances, in conversation events, readings, writing workshops and more. There’s something for everyone, including events for children and families in Lewisham libraries.
Various venues
https://tinyurl.com/59asav3x
28 Mar
Family Fridays at Sadler’s Wells Theatre
Dance workshops for accompanied children on the last Friday of each month. Facilitated by a freelance lead and supporting artist and managed by the Learning & Engagement Department. Ages 2-4, all abilities.
Rosebery Avenue EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com
WHAT’S ON
29 Mar
Family Space at South London Gallery
On the last Saturday of every month, the gallery hosts creative workshops for families. Sessions are selfdirected and designed for families with children aged 5-12. FREE. Peckham Road SE5 8UH www.southlondongallery.org
29 Mar-4 Jan 2026
Pirates exhibition at National Maritime Museum
Uncover the changing depictions of pirates through the ages and across the globe. Accounts of real pirates include Edward ‘Blackbeard’ Teach, William Kidd, Anne Bonny and Mary Read. Ages 10+.
Free workshops within a friendly and welcoming space, run by support organisations for foster and adoptive families with children under 13. Greenwich SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/national-maritimemuseum
30 Mar
Mother’s Day Mega Family Rave Groove together on a dance floor filled with bubbles, balloons, glitter and topped by the parachute dance in an amazing multi-room, under the arches venue! Families with 0-8s. Fire & Lightbox, Vauxhall SW8 1RT www.bigfishlittlefishevents.com
30-31 Mar
Eid at Burgess Park
A celebration marking the end of Ramadan, showcasing Muslim lifestyles in a festive atmosphere, complete with George Irwin’s Funfair. Burgess Park SE5 7LA
31 Mar-27 Apr
The Moonwalkers at Lightroom Tom Hanks narrates a 50-minute immersive experience, taking audiences from launch pad to the lunar surface and back again. The show is both educational and inspirational as an accessible, cosmic experience for all ages. Lewis Cubitt Square N1C 4DY www.lightroom.uk
EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
HMS Belfast
Step on board this iconic London landmark. Navigate your way around the rooms, climbing up and down ladders to visit all nine decks. Family activities run every weekend and every day during the school holidays. The Queen’s Walk SE1 2JH www.iwm.org.uk/hms-belfast
24 Mar-27 Apr Big Egg Hunt
Leading artists, designers, architects and jewellers are bringing over 100 giant egg sculptures to iconic outdoor locations throughout the city, transforming London into a vibrant art exhibition unlike any other. Across London. www.elephant-family.org/ourwork/events/the-big-egg-hunt
28 Mar-28 Apr
George Irwin’s Spring Funfair at Crystal Palace Park
All the fun of the fair, with classic rides, attractions, stalls and candyfloss.
Crystal Palace Park SE19 1UA www.irvinleisure.co.uk
31 Mar-17 Apr
Mother Nature Science Camps in SE1, SE3, SE16 and SE21
Award-winning 4 day camps running across various weeks of the school holidays in the above locations. For ages 5-12 years. The theme is Brilliant Biology. Packed full of hands-on science sessions and experiments, take-homes, indoor and outdoor play and more. www.mnature.co.uk
4 Apr
End of Term Party at Woolwich Works
Celebrate the end of term with snacks and dancing in the cafe to welcome the Easter hols.
The Fireworks Factory, 11 No 1 Street SE18 6HD www.woolwich.works/whats-on
5, 13 & 19 Apr
Crafternoon: Easter Special at Woolwich Works
Three special dates to take part in over the Easter holidays where children and their adults can cut, colour, glue, stick and make in these popular crafternoons.
The Fireworks Factory, 11 No 1 Street SE18 6HD www.woolwich.works/whats-on
5-6 Apr
Family Fun Weekends at Cutty Sark
Climb aboard for family-friendly workshops and activities for all ages. King William Walk SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark
5-21 Apr
Supertato at Kew Gardens
Get ready for a spud-tastic family day out with Supertato and his heroic veggie friends! Based on the bestselling books by Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet, this fun-filled event is a vibrant celebration of all things fruit and veg.
Kew Gardens, Richmond TW9 3AE www.kew.org
Easter Adventure Quest at Eltham Palace
Follow a cracking adventure quest, hunting for clues in the grounds and tracking down Easter eggs for a tasty chocolate treat.
Court Yard SE9 5QE www.english-heritage.org.uk
Easter Fun at Hever Castle
Help the Easter bunny find sweet treats as part of a quest around the grounds or get creative in a free egg decorating workshop.
Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk
Easter at London Transport Museum
This year Transport for London (TfL) is turning 25! Visit the museum for a series of fun, transportrelated activities; map out your own transport network and join a storytelling about the people who make London’s Buses keep moving. Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk
7-11 Apr
The Strings Club Easter Holiday Camp Fun-filled music-making and activities with ukeleles. Led by the UK’s best childcare practitioners and string teachers, each day is wonderfully different - from instrumental sessions to interactive workshops, ending in a Grand
A unique mix of language learning, sports coaching, arts & crafts and outdoor adventure to keep young ones active and engaged during all school holidays. Ages 4-12. Kelvin Grove School SE26 6BB www.globalcamps.co.uk
Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes
Imaginative, fun-packed workshops introduce basic keyboard techniques including reading and writing music, performance skills plus extra fun and games and a take home workbook. Half day or five morning options for beginners. Ages 4-8. Herne Hill, Beckenham, Dulwich www.funkymonkey.info/holidaycourses
12 Apr
SENsory Sailors at National Maritime Museum
A monthly session for families with children with special educational needs and disabilities, led by a SEND specialist.
A treasure hunt for children, Easter bonnet competition, plus free craft workshops and chocolate treats. Brixton Windmill, Blenheim Gardens SW2 5DA www.brixtonwindmill.org
Easter Family Concert at St Mary Magdalen SE1
An Easter themed, live classical concert for the whole family to enjoy together. Babies are welcome to ‘join in’ with as much noise as they like! St Mary Magdalen SE1 3UW www.bachtobaby.com
18 Apr
Easter Eggstravaganza at Herne Hill Velodrome
Let your kids run wild around an offroad bike trail scavenger hunt, with games, face painting, tasty chocolate treats and balance or pedal bikes to try! Ages 2-10, book first. Herne Hill Velodrome SE24 9HE https://tinyurl.com/4a2ebfjp
19 Apr
Horniman Spring Fair
Pop on your Easter bonnet and enjoy a day of live music, crafts, street food, bubbles and more. Practice your circus skills, enjoy traditional fete games and discover more about
what the natural world in spring. Horniman Museum & Gardens, London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk
Family Workshop at Sinfonia Smith Square
In a workshop with organist Benjamin Collyer, you’ll get the chance to discover how the organ works and explore the keys, pedals and stops. From thunderously loud, room-filling music to soft delicate sounds, help bring this giant instrument to life. Ages 10+. Smith Square SW1P 3HA www.sinfoniasmithsq.org.uk
APRIL CONTINUED
25 Apr
Family Fridays at Sadler’s Wells Theatre
Dance workshops for accompanied children on the last Friday of each month. Facilitated by a freelance lead and supporting artist and managed by the Learning & Engagement Department. Ages 2-4, all abilities.
Rosebery Avenue EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com
26 Apr
Family Space at South London Gallery
On the last Saturday of every month, the gallery hosts creative workshops for families. Sessions are selfdirected and designed for families with children aged 5-12 years old. FREE. Peckham Road SE5 8UH www.southlondongallery.org
Until 2 Nov
The Robot Zoo at Horniman Museum and Gardens
Meet larger-than-life animals recreated from a variety of familiar machine parts and gadgets to discover how their real-life counterparts see, eat, hunt and hide. Try jet-propelled squid racing, shoot a chameleon’s ‘tongue-gun’ and even design your own ‘mutant’ robot creature. London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk
Making Egypt at Young V&A
The UK’s first child-centred museum exhibition around creativity in ancient Egypt, showcasing ancient artefacts, contemporary art and design, and captivating scenography. Hands-on activities bring the display to life.
Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA www.vam.ac.uk/young
Daily
Home Song at Unicorn Theatre
By Nina Photography
BARBICAN www.barbican.org.uk
9 Mar
London Symphony Orchestra: Family Concert
A fun opportunity to learn more about music and the instruments of the orchestra, with FREE workshops before the concert. Ages 7-12.
BLACKHEATH HALLS
www.blackheathhalls.com
15-16 Mar
The Gruffalo
Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Ages 3+.
5-6 Apr
Michael Morpurgo’s Farm Boy
Michael Morpurgo’s compelling sequel to ‘War Horse’ returns to the stage in this delightful, familyfriendly show. Ages 8+.
13 Apr
Teach Rex!
Get up close and personal with life-like dinosaurs in an interactive, theatrical Teach Rex show. Ages 3+.
25-27 Apr
The Elmer Adventure
Join three friends on a joyful jungle adventure in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the muchloved Elmer books by David McKee. Ages 3+.
Don’t forget to say you saw these in Families South East magazine!
A panto style production with dazzling song and dance routines, colourful scenery, jokes and more.
19 Apr
Mess!
This fantastical puppetry adventure is jam packed with original music, magic and comedy. For everyone everywhere who delights in making a Mess! Ages 2+.
LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE www.littleangeltheatre.com
Until 19 Apr
Little Angel Theatre’s Miniature Travelling Circus
Take your seats for the smallest circus in town, featuring nostalgic magic tricks, beautiful puppets and tiny acts you won’t see anywhere else! Ages 2-5.
Until 27 Apr
A Squash and a Squeeze
A fun, heart-warming adventure with puppets and songs, based on Julia Donaldson’s book. Ages 3-8.
PEACOCK THEATRE www.sadlerswells.com
16-27 Apr
My First Ballet – Swan Lake English National Ballet bring the thrill of the world’s most famous ballet in a specially adapted version for young audiences. Ages 3+.
PUPPET THEATRE BARGE www.puppetbarge.com
Until 30 Mar
The Flight of Babushka
The story of a baboon who wants to fly to the moon in a hot-air balloon, told with string marionettes, shadow
puppets and moving poetry. Ages 4-10.
SOUTHBANK www.southbankcentre.co.uk
14 + 28 Mar
Rug Rhymes
Get snug as a bug while National Poetry Library puppets share some of their favourite poems, nursery rhymes and rhyming stories. Ages 0-5.
15-16 Mar
Disney Jr. Live on Tour
A character-packed magical event designed for Disney Jr.’s most devoted young fans. With singalongs, dancing, dazzling 3D effects and jaw-dropping acrobatics, this is Disney Jr. like never before.
17-20 Apr
The Lion Inside Embark on an adventure with a shy little mouse who sets out on a journey to find his roar. Ages 3+.
SADLER’S WELLS EAST www.sadlerswells.com
16-19 Apr
Snow White
This visually stunning family friendly dance-theatre production directed by Liv Lorent and retold by Carol Ann Duffy is brought to life by a company of twelve extraordinary dancers.
SYDENHAM CENTRE www.spontaneousproductions. co.uk
8-30 Mar weekends
The Princess and the Pea and The Enormous Turnip
A wonderfully veggie double bill of two beloved fairy tales come together in a highly original family theatre show!
UNICORN THEATRE www.unicorntheatre.com
Until 9 Mar
Home Song
Adwoa and her mum embark on a journey from the bustling streets of Kumasi to the vibrant heart of London to find the true meaning of home. A musical experience with free playtime at the end. Ages 6-18 mths.
22 Mar–4 May
Beegu
Alexis Deacon’s much-loved tale about friendship, respect and the importance of including others is brought to life in this heart-warming stage adaptation. Ages 3-7.
29 Mar-19 Apr
Little Night
Enter a fairytale world bursting with intriguing projections, soundscapes, colour and joy. Ages 18 mths–4 years.
VARIOUS VENUES
Bring Your Own Baby Comedy www.byobcomedy.com
A funny, friendly afternoon of top comedy, where baby (under 12 months) can come and join in with the rumpus. Shows feature a new line up of comedians each month with two acts plus a compere.
6 Mar in Greenwich
25 Mar in Crystal Palace WOOLWICH WORKS www.woolwich.works
8 Mar
Boppin’ Bunnies Music Show
An interactive musical show for babies, toddlers and families where everyone gets to participate in the music making! Ages 0-5.
