Families West London May-June 2017

ISSUE 114 May-June 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Check out our great offer on page 9

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NEWS & VIEWS RYA Sailing and Windsurfing lessons

In this issue...

It’s our party issue and we have all the info you need to host a wonderful party that your child will be talking about until their next birthday! And now that the weather is warmer and sunnier (sometimes) it’s time to get outdoors and exploring all that London has to offer for families. We have a bumper issue of activities galore as well as the usual clubs and classes and holiday workshop listings. Enjoy!

Are you looking for an activity for your children where they can learn new skills, make friends and have fun in the fresh air? This summer, get your youngsters active by introducing them to sailing and windsurfing through RYA OnBoard. They’ll learn an exciting new sport in a safe environment, get out on the water and gain valuable life skills from problem solving to taking responsibility. Once they get started in sailing the opportunities are endless.

Everything you need is provided by the instructor. It’s affordable, fun and you don’t need to have done it before. Anyone aged 8-18 can take part in OnBoard sessions and with over 245 RYA approved venues across the country there’s bound to be one near you.

You might even find you want to join in too!

To find your nearest OnBoard activity please visit: www.rya.org.uk/onboard #GetOnBoard

Contents News & Views

Page 2

Mindfulness

Page 4

Party Time!

Page 6

Education

Page 10

Diary Dates

Page 14

What’s On in west London

Page 15

The Importance of Sleep

Page 22

Classified Section

Page 23

Clubs & Classes

Page 24

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Families Needed! - Scientists and pollinators want your help…

Imagine living in a desert with barely any food, hardly any water or any place to shelter.

Unfortunately, this is exactly what it is like for the pollinating insects currently living in Britain.

Loss of habitat, pesticides, and farming practices have left these insects hungry and homeless, suffering from a lack of feeding, nesting and shelter habitat. Which is why The Polli:Nation Project needs your help. Now in its second year, the Polli:Nation survey is looking for families across the UK to take part in aiding research on the health and status of pollinating insects across the UK. The survey can be completed in under an hour in outdoor spaces such as gardens, school grounds, or local parks, and uploading your findings will contribute to important scientific research. Free survey resources can be downloaded at: www.opalexplorenature.org/ polli-nation And results can be submitted either online or by post.

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NEWS & VIEWS West London Dance Academy students perform The Nutcracker For the first time, West London Dance Academy students based in Chiswick and Ealing will perform their own version of the enchanting ballet ‘The Nutcracker’. More than 100 pupils will be pirouetting, tapping, scampering, leaping, marching, and pivoting as Mice, Soldiers, Sweets, and Snow in front of a large audience of friends and family at the Chiswick Town Hall on Sunday 2nd July. With pupils as young as 3 years old, it will be a new experience for some as they will step on stage for the first time. After a gruelling two terms of dance exams and achieving outstanding results, the Academy can now start to enjoy preparing for their debut.

Rehearsals are well underway, dances choreographed and costumes are arriving from all over the world! Pupils, parents and principal Miss Natalie cannot wait to unveil their amazing talent and hard work. Tickets go on sale on 2 May. For information about the Academy contact Miss Natalie Parnell on 07795 578781.

Email: Natalieparnell.wlda@gmail.com www.westlondondanceacademy.com

Super Camps half term holiday camps Super Camps’ fabulous new Multi-Activity programme at St Augustine’s Priory, Ealing allows children to get involved in some great activities. As well as taking part in the fun-packed programme, children are cared for by fully qualified and vetted staff to create a thoroughly enjoyable time on camp. As Ofsted noted, Super Camps runs “An excellent programme of well-planned, fun and exciting activities that contributes highly to the children’s play and learning environment.”

St Augustine's Priory is located on Hillcrest Road, Ealing, London, W5 2JL. Camps run from 30th May - 2nd June.

Save 15% with code FAMILIES17. www.supercamps.co.uk

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The BENEFITS OF MINDFULNESS in children The past two decades have seen an abundance of research, and hundreds of studies conducted, all about the increasingly popular practice of mindfulness.

A great increase in stress, so much so that some Fortune 500 companies in the US for instance, have even employed mindfulness coaches to benefit their employees.

Specific programs for businesses around the globe have been created for their employees to help reduce stress, keep employees’ minds fresh and focused and in turn able to perform better at work and of course be happier and healthier from the inside out.

But, just what is mindfulness?

And does it has the same positive effect on younger children, specifically those between the ages of three and 11?

In short, mindfulness is a simplistic program of meditative activities.

It is a simple, yet powerful observation free from criticism and is a new and improved way of seeing what is happening to us in our lives. Although very effective once learnt, mindfulness does of course not rid you of everyday problems and pressures, yet it does, however, provide you with the tools and mindset needed to handle them in

a calmer way. This calmer way has been said to benefit not only your mind but also your heart and body, thus providing an improved way of life and a greater sense of clarity and focus.

How can mindfulness help young children?

Extensive research has shown that mindfulness can help children between the ages of three and 11.

If we take a look at the developmental changes that occur within children, the physical changes and events such as starting school, socialising, and simply learning about life, it makes perfect sense to equip youngsters with tools on

how to deal with their emotions, and how to develop a positive outlook on life with mindfulness skills.

Children can learn vital stressrelieving skills such as breathing techniques, mindful hearing and listening. If children struggle with an emotion or getting angry they can revert to mindfulness techniques to learn how to deal with, and control, those emotions.

Mindfulness and autism, ADHD and ADD The Autism Research and Treatment study undertaken by Sequeira is a piece of research that supports the notion that mindfulness meditation has a great

Lemon Tree and St Matthew’s Montessori schools based in Ealing Broadway offering both full day care (8.00am-6.00pm) and term time (9.15am-3.15am) for children aged from 1 years to 5 years old.

We offer French, Ballet, Yoga, Drama and PE inclusive of fees.

Full and part time sessions available. Qualified and experienced teachers offer a high standard of learning, nurturing and care.

Lemon Tree Montessori: 07495 898 760 (Full Day Care) St Matthew's Montessori: 07564 834 687 (Term Time) Website: www.lemontreemontessori.com

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May-June 2017

positive effect on children with autism. To be mindful helps one keep focused in a precise moment.

Taking medication for autism, ADHD or ADD does not have long-term benefits, however, mindfulness can help long term given it is practised daily and part of one's lifestyle, not only for children but also for adults. Parents and/or carers who look after children with such disorders can often find themselves dealing with stress, so things such as meditation and mindful thinking can help reduce the effects of stress, thus enabling them to deal with situations in a calmer, more helpful way, to themselves and children.

Some of those with autism suffer from psychological imbalances,

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such as lack of rhythm.

Children who struggle with this can have difficulty when trying to balance the inner and outer world, which can result in issues with interaction or distorted relationships.

One area of mindfulness that may benefit these children is Mantra Meditation. This type of meditation is all about repetition, such as repeating a sound or repeating a movement or word.

It’s this calm and harmonising meditation that can help to restore the child’s sense of rhythm.

Can mindfulness help your child thrive at school?

It is a sad and somewhat worrying fact that more and more children are feeling the stress and pressure of school life.

With a push to succeed

academically, to make friends or even anxieties related to changing or starting new schools, these pressures are simply no good for our children.

With this in mind it is no surprise that teachers, carers and parents are looking towards proven methods of mindfulness to protect and nurture their youngsters’ mental and general wellbeing.

Some children find short yoga routines at the start or end of their day a great way to clear their mind and relax, as well as stay in tune with their mind and bodies. These sorts of activities are perfect for all ages, from very young children to the elderly.

Children who are undertaking exams may find yoga a much-needed break from studying, as

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even 10 minutes’ practice can provide great clarity and help to re-focus the mind.

Many practitioners are encouraging schools and parents to practise mindfulness with their children due to the plethora of proven benefits to all.

For instance, Susan Kaiser Greenland has published a study named “Mindful Revolution in Education.”

This informative piece goes into more detail on the ways in which mindfulness programs for children can help create a more compassionate, calmer youngster with good practices.

For more information, please visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/ wellbeing

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The A-Z of Party BUZZ Words!

A is for Animals.

Most children are intrigued by them and enjoy opportunities to get close.

Try: Odds Farm Park. A day out at the farm with everything thrown in. Packages include use of the private party room for 2½ hours, party food, bags, invites, animal masks, animal fee for the goats and sheep and free admission for one adult for every child’s place booked. 01628 520188 www.oddsfarm.co.uk ...And for Adventure Playgrounds.

Try: Bramley’s Big Adventure London’s most central indoor adventure playground hosts all-inclusive parties. 136 Bramley Road, London W10 6TJ. 020 8960 1515. www.bramleysbigadventure.com B is for Baking.

Parties are available for children from age 4 and kids of all ages will enjoy licking out the bowls! Most parties take place in your own home or anywhere with a kitchen, but you don’t have to do the clearing up!

Great for small groups.

Try: The Kids Cookery School. The party guests cook three dishes chosen by the birthday boy or girl and then eat them together for their party tea! Located at 107 Gunnersbury Lane, Acton W3.

C is for Ceramics.

An ideal choice for arty children, who can decorate pottery animals, mugs, egg cups and more, and have them fired and glazed on-site.

Try: The Ceramics Café www.ceramicscafe.com/studio-locations/ west-ealing/ ...And for Crafts.

The best things about a party where children do arts and crafts is that they have a lovely time and they get to take something home so you don’t need to think about a party bag!

Try: Fun with Fimo Clay www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk D is for Dance.

Book a dance party! Choose between ballet, street dance, latin and more, depending on your child’s taste. Alternatively, opt for a

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dance - themed party which might include dancing games, action songs, and dance ribbons.

Try: Diddi Dance. www.diddidance.com ...And also for Drama.

Always a good idea for a mixed group. A drama party means that everyone is involved.

Try: Perform Parties. High energy, fun and totally infectious parties! Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter to create a fun-filled, actionpacked parties. Whether your child wants to be a swashbuckling pirate, a shimmering mermaid or a dazzling superhero, they’ll be sure to have a brilliant time. Call 0207 255 9120 or visit: www.performparties.co.uk

Allsorts drama for children will be running their popular Easter drama workshops at More House School, 22 - 24 Pont Street SW1 from 5th - 7th April for ages 4 - 6 & 7- 11 from 9.30am - 3.30pm.

The children will have fun with games, prop making and working towards a show that they will perform to family and friends on the last day.

Fee £150 with a 20% sibling discount.

To book please call: 020 8969 3249 or visit: www.allsortsdrama.com

E is for Entertainer.

Some specialise in magic or dance, others provide all round entertainment tailored to a particular theme, some provide a ‘Special appearance’ by a television character and others still focus on party games.

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Try: Adam Ants Parties. Adam Ants and his talented team makes sure their parties are non-stop fun, with something for all ages Magic, balloon modelling, puppets, music, games, dancing and face painters. They also offer amazing disco/sports parties or the ever popular build a bear party. Plus hire of tables and chairs/ bouncy castles and soft play.

020 8959 1045 or 07969 121094. info@adamantsparties.co.uk www.adamantsparties.co.uk F is for Families.

You will need as many of your family (and friends) to lend a hand to make your child’s birthday go without a hitch. Don’t be afraid to ask! there is also plenty of information about parties online on at: www.familiesonline.co.uk/life/party-time G is for Golf.

Enjoyable and exciting indoor golfing parties include stimulating games that use a range of large, colourful targets, child-friendly equipment and safe foam balls.

Try: Putt in the Park (Acton) www.puttinthepark.com/acton-park H is for HAPPY BIRTHDAY! For all your party needs, a party shop is the place to go for ensuring a very happy birthday.

Try: Party Plus at 4 Acton Lane, Chiswick, London W4 5NB. It also has a mail-order company: www.partyplus.co.uk They have a wide range of themed party-ware available from stock including Paw Patrol, Power Rangers, Peppa Pig, In the Night Garden and much more. 020 8994 1674.

I is for Inflatables.

There is nothing that is more guaranteed to get a young child smiling than the sight of a bouncy slide and castle at a birthday party!

Find a suitable venue to house these inflatables and hire them in!

J is for Jeeps.

Jeep driving parties are still fairly unique, considering that you can hold them indoors or outdoors, on a tennis court or in a church hall. An inflatable track and jeeps are provided and jeep parties are fantastic entertainment for children aged 4 to 8.

Try: Into The Blue www.intotheblue.co.uk K is for Karts.

Go Kart Parties are a whole lot of fun and suit kids from age 4 to 14. They can be held on almost any surface, so leisure centres, local halls, sports fields or playgrounds are all feasible. Parties generally build to a big, final race at end the day.

Try: Team Sport. A karting track in Acton.

Parties for ages 8+ www.team-sport.co.uk/go-kart-racing-events/ kids-go-karting And London Karting (local venue in Kensington) www.london-karting.com L is for Laughter.

And for plenty of laughter at your child’s party you may want to hire an experienced children’s entertainer.

Try: Boo Boo The Children’s Entertainer For lots of laughter, fun and games with mini disco, balloon modelling, juggling, magic tricks and puppet shows. He has vast experi-

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ence entertaining children of all ages and is suitable for all occasions. Recommended by the Evening Standard. 07961 355269. www.mr-booboo.co.uk And, L is for Leisure Centres.

Many leisure centres provide great sport, soft play, trampoline or gymnastics parties Local leisure centres: CHISWICK Brentford Fountain Leisure Centre.

Swimming, sport and soft play parties.

TW8 0HJ. 0845 456 6675.

New Chiswick Pool. Swimming parties W4 2RG. 0845 456 6675.

EALING Elthorne Sports Centre. Sports and Games Parties. W7 2AD. 020 8579 3226.

Greenford Sports Centre. Sports, games, bouncy castle and trampoline. UB6.

020 8575 9157 Gurnell Leisure Centre. Swimming parties W13 OAL. 020 8998 3241.

Southall Sports Centre. Sports, games and trampoline parties UB1 1DP. 020 8571 8871.

Northolt Leisure Centre. Swimming parties. UB5 4AB. 020 8825 7014.

Southall Sports Centre. Sports parties.

UB1 1DP. 020 8571 8871.

Twyford Sports Centre (Acton).

Sports, games and trampoline parties. W3.

020 8993 9095.

HAMMERSMITH Phoenix Fitness Centre and Janet Adegoke Swimming Pool Centre. Sports Themed party packages. W12 7DB. 020 8735 4900.

Jubilee Sports Centre. Soft play parties with use of the hall. W10 4RR. 020 8960 9629.

KENSINGTON Westway Sports Centre. Climbing, Tennis, Football, Wallball and Fives Parties.

W10 6RP. 020 8969 0992.

WESTMINSTER Seymour Leisure Centre. Soft play parties in the Jungle Gym and Sports parties.

W1H 5TJ. 0333 005 0416.

M is for Music.

Often with similar features to the classes they derive from, music parties are generally suitable for the 0-5 age group who love the mix of music, dance and musical instruments.

N is for Nature.

For kids who like the great outdoors, head to an outdoor venue. Many provide engaging games and activities as well as a venue for birthday tea.

Try: The Ecology Centre in Holland Park.

The birthday party package includes an outdoor environmental and/or craft activity led

by Ecology Centre staff, suitable for all children from four- to 12-years-old, followed a chance to meet the Centre’s animals. www.rbkc.gov.uk/subsites/wildlife/hiringtheecologycentre/birthdayparties.aspx O is for One Stop Shop.

Reduce party stress with a party provider that offers a venue, entertainment and food.

Remember to check this out when you are doing your research!

P is for Ponies.

Many children love ponies, so imagine how special a party at a riding stables would be!

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Children can learn to groom the horses, go on a ride in a nearby park and learn some riding techniques.

Try: Hyde Park Stables www.hydeparkstables.com/horseriding/horse-riding-birthday-parties or; Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre www.wormwoodscrubsponycentre.org/PonyParties-for-children.html Q is for Quality.

Remember that the most expensive parties are not necessarily the best quality!

R is for Rugby.

These parties often follow a similar format to football parties, and include lots of running around, rugby-related activities, and fun for girls and boys from age 2 upwards.

Try: Rugby Tots www.rugbytots.co.uk S is Soft Play.

These venues can be hired inclusive of toys, inflatables and ball pits and are a very popular choice for kids of all ages, as most either cater for under 5’s or have a separate area for young children.

Try: The Piccolo Playcentre. Chiswick: 0203 643 2574 07525 773 659, Ealing: 0208 992 5852. www.piccoloplaycentre.co.uk T is for Toddlers.

The little ones need their own kind of party.

Try: Hartbeeps Parties. Exciting, interactive and fun! Their award-winning parties bring the magic of Hartbeeps to you with original music, bubbles, costumes, sparkly parachutes, puppets, lighting effects, exciting props and more! Contact Louise: loulou@hartbeeps.com 07738 522856. ...And for Themed.

Many party providers these days will plan your child’s party around a particular theme, either one from a selection they offer, or one chosen by you. Popular themes include princesses, super heroes, pirates and mermaids, dinosaurs and jungles!

Try: The Action Station. Offering imaginative, interactive story-telling parties. Choose from mermaids, funky witches and wizards, fairies or princesses, pirates, knights or cowboys, spies or drama parties. Clowns, magicians, jugglers, circus skills experts, face painters, make up artists and DJs also available. 0870 770 2705. www.theactionstation.co.uk And of course T is for Trampolining!

What could be better than a high energy jump about with all your friends.

Try: Oxygen. The perfect kids party at Oxygen Freejumping, London's favourite trampoline park, and explore over 100 connected trampolines and 8 jumping zones! Then relax and refuel with pizza and drinks. It's the ultimate party recipe! It is located on Kendal Avenue, West Acton W3 0AF. To book, visit: www.oxygenfreejumping.co.uk Phone: 0203 846 1386.

U is for Umbrella.

Essential for outdoor parties, even in Summer!

W is for Weather.

But remember not to rely on it!

X is for eXtraordinary!

Don’t worry, your child’s birthday party will always be eXtraordinary, just like your child!

To make it even more so,

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Try: Stagecoach Performing Arts. Chiswick and Kensington, run all year round parties for all age groups. Themed parties can range from Pirates and Princesses to Jungle World and everything in between. Popstar Parties and Musical Theatre parties are popular with the 7-10yr olds. Murder Mystery Dinner Parties are increasingly popular with ages 12-16yrs. There's always something for everyone! Chiswick: 0208 398 4709. chiswick@stagecoach.co.uk Kensington: 0208 398 8106, kensington@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/chiswick www.stagecoach.co.uk/kensington Y is for Yoga.

Want your kids to have a zen experience?

Yoga parties often provide a combination of yoga and other forms of entertainment.

Z is for ZZZZZ...

After all the excitement, they will just want to flop in their favourite pyjamas. But for the next day, don’t forget the thank you cards.

Download free virtual cards that include a picture of your child enjoying their gift at: www.paperlesspost.com

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PARTYTIME IN WEST LONDON

- In the bag!

Are you out of ideas for party bags? Do you think your kids sometimes come home with a bag full of plastic and sweets? You’re not alone.

In reality, it’s actually not that difficult to find all manner of unique goodies that will be gratefully received by child and parent alike.

With a little time spent searching, and a little creativity thrown in, we discovered alternative children’s party bag ideas that won’t break the bank - and will still be talked about next year!

7) LittleLuLubel.com offers gorgeous, pre-filled treat bags for boys and girls, £3.75

1) Take home and make a rocket wand or superhero mask from cottontwist.co.uk Or why not incorporate that as an activity into the party?

8) Museum shops offer great party bag ideas. These Chocolate dinosaur lollies from the Natural History Museum nhmshop.co.uk make for a unique and delicious rip-roaring treat at £2.00 each.

4) The stretchy award winning Oogi Junior is ultra cool and offers endless creative options. £4.99. Toyella.com 5) Dog pens £3.25 by Red Berry Apple, a personalised rainbow notebook, £2.00 by Half Pint Home, together with a personalised bright and bold pencil case, £6.00 by Popkid.

Notonthehighstreet.com has lots of bespoke ideas.

9) Think outside of the box bag, with an educational alternative.

The Spark Range science kits from ThamesandKosmos.com £5.99

2) LEGO Minifigures: blind bags from £2.49 and key rings from £2.99, who doesn’t enjoy the Danish brick brand?

3) From Frozen to Dinosaurs and perfect for all themed parties, Top Trumps go down really well, from £3.99

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6) Kids will go potty for this playdough pack from the dotty dough factory from £2.50.

What’s not to love?

Emma Oliver is a journalist who has worked for various magazines and websites, mainly covering travel and parenting. She is also a mum to two young girls. When she's not off gadding about she can be found blogging at: WritingLifeAsItIs.blogspot.co.uk

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Parties - Should I invite the WHOLE class?

When the whole class is invited If you do indeed want the whole class to come, consider a hall or park, or use your garden rather than your home. Remember, if you invite the class, it’s unthinkable to leave out just two or three children.

The tricky etiquette of parties for kids...

When you’re having a party for your child, is it practical to invite the entire class? We discuss the pros and cons.

Age matters For pre-schoolers the rule is that you should invite the same number of children as their age, plus themselves. Parties for very young children tend to involve family members so if you add too many kids, your child will be overwhelmed. Many children will come with a parent in tow, which means catering for them, too!

Problem child Your child may have some very close friends but may also have problems with one or more fellow pupils. If this is the case, it is very difficult to invite the whole class but leave out one or two children.

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Avoid this by considering a single sex or theme party or continue to give your child a number of friends they can invite. Inviting just special friends keeps the party manageable.

Budget How much you can afford?

A theme park, restaurant or similar, costs a lot more than sandwiches and cake at home.

Work out what’s affordable and then discuss with your child who they would like to come.

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Make a plan, explain it to your child and stick to it...

Don’t be emotionally blackmailed into adding more to the guest list and if the whole class is invited make sure that’s what happens – the whole class!

By Sally J. Hall Sally is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

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EDUCATION: 7 Ways to make homework FUN! 3. Find a study buddy Hold a homework playdate where your child and one of their friends do their homework together. Set some rules ahead of time and reward them afterwards with an activity of their choice. Or join your child yourself and accomplish some work of your own be it catching up on emails, paying bills or planning a holiday.

Win-win!

‘Homework? Boooring!’

Is this a regular moan in your house? We’ve all been there! We want our children to progress and do well at school but after a long day, many youngsters will feel reluctant to sit down to get on with their homework and no amount of nagging seems to help!

We’ve teamed up with the experts at Explore Learning to bring you seven awesome ways to make homework ACTUALLY fun.

1. Set up a fun and creative space Having a special place to do work, decorated in personalised decor, can really help children to focus. Avoid busy areas and make sure there is no other distractions, like technology or televisions.

Younger children may appreciate their own artwork hung on the walls, while older children may prefer more desk space and personalised planners, so they can organise their work.

2. Magical motivators Keep homework battles at bay by using incentives to keep your child on track. Younger children may be motivated by sticker charts, where they can pick a reward once it is full, whilst older kids may be persuaded to crack on with their work with the promise of time on the iPad. Make sure your child understands the value of developing good homework habits, rather than just receiving a reward!

4. Turn it into a game Turn learning into a fun game. For spellings, you could use flashcards or writing words in foam, or for maths, you could use sweets like Smarties to help visualise numbers.

When they get a right answer, they get to eat some!

5. Get outside If the weather is good, why not let your child do their homework outside?

The fresh air will help them concentrate after being inside a stuffy classroom all day. Let them have a short break in between exercises, like a game of Frisbee or football.

6. Be positive Always be upbeat about school and homework and give your child bags of encouragement.

Reinforce how well they are doing, write them inspiring messages and chat to family members about your child’s achievements.

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7. Make it visual If your child feels overwhelmed by everything they have to do, visually being able to see their progress will help. Make a list or chart on a white board or special planner and get them to cross each task off as it is completed. Some new

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pens and exciting stationary will also keep them happy!

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DIARY DATES/HALF TERM WORKSHOPS 4 May OPEN DAY AT ST BENEDICT’S SENIOR SCHOOL, EALING

13, 14 May BARNES CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL

Call 020 8862 2254. admissions@stbenedicts.org.uk for more information. www.stbenedicts.org.uk

Author talks, workshops, story time and craft sessions, music, film and more. www.barneskidslitfest.org

6 May MUM2MUM MARKET IN CHISWICK A pop up market where you can buy or sell nearly new baby, children's and maternity goods in good condition at fraction of high street prices. Takes place at Southfield Primary School, Southfield Road, Bedford Park W4 1BD. From 1.30-3.30pm. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/north-andwest-london-nearly-new-sales.html

6, 7 May IMPERIAL FESTIVAL Flying robots, immersive art and delicious food are just a taste of the hands-on experiences available. Activities and talks for all ages at Imperial College, South Kensington. With zones themed around Robots, Superbugs, Health The Future, and Energy. www.imperial.ac.uk/festivals

8 May KEY STAGE 2 SATS WEEK 13 May OPEN DAY AT ORLEY FARM SCHOOL Call: 020 88697634. registrar@orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

14 May COVENT GARDEN MAY FAYRE AND PUPPET FESTIVAL Enjoy a day of traditional puppetry and celebrate the 355th birthday of Mr Punch at St Paul’s Church Garden, Bedford Street, WC2E 9ED. Admission free. Grand procession around Covent Garden at 11am, followed by puppet shows and workshops. www.alternativearts.co.uk

17-20 May MUSEUMS AT NIGHT Take part in special events, tours, talks and sleepovers as museums, galleries and historic spaces open their doors after hours. www.museumsatnight.org.uk

18 May, 15 Jun OPEN DAY AT ST BENEDICT’S NURSERY AND JUNIOR SCHOOL, EALING Call 020 8862 2254. admissions@stbenedicts.org.uk www.stbenedicts.org.uk

20 May OPEN DAY AT CLIFTON LODGE SCHOOL, EALING 10am-12 noon. Call 020 8579 3662.

admissions@cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk www.cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk

21 May BMW LSO OPEN AIR CLASSICS IN TRAFALGAR SQ. Enjoy a taste of Rachmaninov’s melodies with a free outdoor classical music concert by the London Symphony Orchestra, open to all in Trafalgar Square. www.lso.co.uk/whats-on/bmw-lso-openair-classics.html

21 May MUM2MUM MARKET NORTH KENSINGTON Award-winning baby and children’s nearly new sale - clothes, toys, books, baby equipment and more. Great quality, top brands, bargain prices. 1.30 - 3.30pm.

Takes place at The Harrow Club, 187 Freston Rd, North Kensington W10 6TH. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/north-andwest-london-nearly-new-sales.html

7-28 May FERIA DE LONDRES An Andalusian festival for the whole family with children’s activities, delicious Spanish tapas, live entertainment and workshops. Takes place at Tower Bridge.

9-25 Jun BEDFORD PARK FESTIVAL There is something for everyone at this huge local community festival including art, photography, drama, music, film, poetry, talks, walks and children’s and community events. www.bedfordparkfestival.org

11 Jun MUM2MUM MARKET IN WEST DRAYTON A pop up market where you can buy or sell nearly new baby, children’s and maternity goods in good condition at a fraction of high street prices. Takes place at Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Road, West Drayton, UB7 9JL from 2-4pm www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/north-andwest-london-nearly-new-sales.html

17 Jun HANWELL CARNIVAL Parades, music, dance, entertainment for all the family, including a fairground, inflatatables and the ever-popular animal zone. Plus plenty of charity and trade tents and refreshments. 12-6pm, Elthorne Park, Boston Road W7. www.hanwellcarnival.co.uk

17 Jun MUM2MUM MARKET IN EALING A pop up market where you can buy or sell nearly new baby, children’s and maternity goods in good condition at fraction of high street prices. Takes place at St Barnabas Church Hall, Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QG from 2-4pm. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/north-andwest-london-nearly-new-sales.html

18 Jun FATHER’S DAY Time to give the old man in your life a big treat.

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

Half Term Camps and Workshops Supercamps Multi-Activity Camp (W5) www.supercamps.co.uk 30 May-2 Jun Super Camps’ fabulous new Multi-Activity programme at St Augustine's Priory, Ealing allows children to get involved in some great activities.

As well as taking part in the fun-packed programme, children are cared for by fully qualified and vetted staff to create a thoroughly enjoyable time on camp. As Ofsted noted, Super Camps runs “A excellent programme of well-planned, fun and exciting activities that contributes highly to the children’s play and learning environment.” St Augustine's Priory is located on Hillcrest Road, Ealing, London, W5 2JL. Save 15% with code FAMILIES17.

Arts Ed Musical Theatre Workshops (W4) www.artsed.co.uk/holidaycourses/booking/half-termcourses 30 May-1 Jun Day-long workshops for two age groups, 3-6 and 7-13. The younger ones take part in games, dance and singing and can choose from The Little Mermaid and The Lion King while the older ones will put together Annie or have a Charlie and The Chocolate Day with Wonka Madness!

Odds Farm Park Activity Day Camps www.oddsfarm.co.uk/daysout/childrens-farm-activity-daycamps/ 30 May-2 Jun Leave the kids at Odds Farm Park for great holiday adventures.

Action-packed Activity Day run jointly with Kids Play Childcare include entry to Odds Farm Park, Ofsted Registered Childcare and early and late clubs as well as meals and refreshments.

May-June 2017

activities, create your own unique blend and taste some unusual flavours. For ages 6-10, 10.30am-3pm.

1 Jun LOTIONS AND POTIONS Find out about the history of medicine and the amazing power of plants to heal and soothe. Make some of your own natural and low-cost remedies (ointments, syrups, scented bags) as well as a mini medicinal garden to take home. For ages 7+, 10.30am-2.30pm.

Book Now for summer: Perform Drama workshops (Notting Hill and Chiswick) www.perform.org.uk/holidays

Corner 9 Art Workshops (W10) www.corner9.org.uk 30 May-2 Jun Discover the natural world through drawing, painting and sculpture projects.

Kite Studios Art Workshops (W12) www.kitestudios.org 29 May-3 Jun Workshops in design, drawing, clay modelling, collage and printmaking for ages 4-14+

Hyde Park Education Centre Environmental and Art Workshops (W2) www.supporttheroyalparks.org 30 May NATURE EXPLORERS GARDENING GANG A wild walk to Kensington Garden’s allotment for digging and planting as part of a full day of guided outdoor games and activities.

10am-3pm, for ages 8-11.

31 May, 1 Jun DISCOVERY DAY FLOWER POWER Drop in any time between 11am and 3pm for a fun packed day of free and exciting activities uncovering flowery facts.

Chelsea Physic Garden Environmental Workshops (SW3) www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 30 May CHOCOLATE TUESDAY Learn about chocolate, take part in craft

May-June 2017

July and Aug BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Three and five day summer courses for ages 4-7.This summer, your child could be acting out the classic fairytale on one of the three or five day courses. Venturing into the Spooky Wood and exploring the grand Palace of Dreams, they’ll learn songs, rehearse dances and put together scenes that tell the story of how Beauty met the Beast.

020 7255 9120. enquiries@perform.org.uk

Club Petit Pierrot Fun French Summer Holiday Club (Chelsea, Maida Vale) www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk 17-28 Jul Children learn French effortlessly while doing lots of arts and crafts, cooking, drama, outdoor sporty games and singing. For ages 3-5 and 6-8 in Chelsea and Maida Vale. Half day and full day sessions available. Small groups, dynamic and enthusiastic native French teachers (all DBS checked).

Highly recommended by BBC, Daily Telegraph, Daily Express and Time Out. 020 7385 5565 admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

Arts Ed Musical Theatre Workshops (Chiswick) https://artsed.co.uk/holidaycourses/booking/youth-coursessummer 24 Jul-18 Aug Holiday courses in drama and musical theatre. Children from 416+yrs will have great fun singing, dancing, acting, making films and creating comedy sketches.

Drawing Sunday at THE NATIONAL GALLERY

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk 19 May MUSEUMS AT NIGHT A rare opportunity to visit the Museum after dark! Enjoy a variety of gallery talks, chat to our gold and banknote experts and handle some unique objects from the Bank's collection.

30 May - 2 June PIGGY BANK ON US! Take inspiration from the collection of money boxes by following the trail and then join a creative workshop and decorate your own ceramic piggy bank

BRITISH MUSEUM WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety of themes. Free, 11am-4pm, for ages 7+ (unless stated). Special events include: 15 May EXCEL SKILLS: VISUALISING TOP COUNTRIES SEARCHING THE WEBSITE Use the Museum’s Big Data and learn new skills in data analysis and visualisation. Free, for ages 13-18, 4pm.

Email samsungcentre@gmail.com 19 May, 9, 19 Jun DIGITAL WORKSHOP: CODING IN R Learn coding skills with your friends. 4pm for ages 13+ 4 Jun DESIGN YOUR OWN GREEK TEMPLE 11am, free. For age 6+

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

FOUNDLING MUSEUM WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 27 May, 24 Jun OBJECT HANDLING SESSION a unique opportunity to touch and study a selection of objects similar to those in the galleries. Items in the Handling Collection include children’s clothing, replica Court Room plasterwork and a selection of tokens as found in the Introductory Gallery. Suitable for visually impaired visitors. For ages 3+ No booking. 1-4pm, free.

4 Jun SUNDAY SHORTS A family screening of Philip Hunt’s BAFTA-winning animation Lost and Found, based on the best-selling book by Oliver Jeffers. It tells the unforgettable story of a little boy who one day finds a penguin on his doorstep.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk EXHIBITIONS: HOLOCAUST Film, photographs and a large number of rare artefacts document the history of the Nazi persecution of the Jews and other groups before and during the Second World War. For ages 14+ A FAMILY IN WARTIME Explores the lives of William and Alice Allpress and their ten children and what life in London was like during the war.

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WHAT’S ON SECRET WAR The clandestine world of espionage, covert operations and the work of Britain’s Special Forces.

FIRST WORLD WAR Discover the story of the war - Over 1,300 objects including weapons, uniforms, diaries, letters and souvenirs, will be on display as well as a recreated trench with periscopes and a dug-out, along with a soundscape and projection will evoke what daily life was like for the troops.

Every Sat and Sun OBJECT CONVERSATIONS New immersive object handling sessions where families can explore objects from the collectionsfeel the weight of a shrapnel piece from the First World War and come to grips with real objects. Drop-in, free, for all ages. 11am -12.30pm and 2 - 4pm.

NATIONAL GALLERY WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm.

MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For children aged 2-5. Sundays 10.3011am and 11.30am–12pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day.

DRAWING SUNDAY Explore gallery paintings as inspiration for your art.

For ages 5-11. Sundays 11am and 2pm.

Drop-in.

7 May, 11 June NOW YOU SEE ME, NOW YOU DON’T Portraits stay still don't they? Not this one. Come and find out how to draw a portrait that moves and changes and even disappears!

21 May DRAWING A CROWD Take part in a collaborative drawing adventure and invite characters to step out of the paintings and be drawn into the crowd.

STUDIO SUNDAYS hands-on workshops that start in the Gallery and are followed by a studio session. 11am and 2pm for ages 5-11.

14 May, 18 Jun SIRENS, STORMS AND SUITORS Experience the thrilling adventures frescoed in Pintoricchio’s Penelope with the Suitors and collage a narrative of Odysseus’s story in your own triptych.

4 Jun TALES FROM THE UNDERWORLD Help to unravel the tale of Orpheus in the Underworld and create your own Ancient Greek-inspired urn, painted with scenes from the story.

Every Weds WELCOME WEDNESDAYS Bring paintings to life through interactive music, storytelling, art and messy play activities. Every Wednesday, 10.30 and 11.30am for walkers under age five, 1pm for sitting babies to walkers.

7 May 4 Jun FAMILY WALK AND TALK Free family talk for all ages.

A journey through the collection where

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there is a walk, talk, and bringing of paintings to life.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY WC2H OHE www.npg.org.uk 21 May DROP-IN FAMILY SESSION: PORTRAITS IN CLAY Drop-in to the studio to mould, roll, cut and build with clay using a variety of techniques and processes. During the session families will have the opportunity to create a small clay head inspired by portraits in the Collection.1pm for ages 3+ and 3pm for age 7+ 29 May-2 Jun HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES: FINDING FRIENDS A week of activities exploring the paintings of Howard Hodgkin and portraits in the Collection.

Activities will range from painting to printmaking.11am-4pm., all ages.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Every weekend INVESTIGATE FOR FAMILIES Get a feel for how scientists work by having a go yourself. Explore hundreds of real nature specimens that form the evidence Museum scientists use in their daily work. Drop-in, 11am-5pm.

Until 17 Sept EXHIBITION: SENSATIONAL BUTTERFLIES Escape to the tropical butterfly house and see the crawling caterpillar transform into the beautiful butterfly. Marvel at the behaviour and sheer diversity of these incredible organisms, usually found in the tropical forests of Central and South America, Africa and Asia.

5 May DAWNOSAURS A free event that lets autistic children enjoy the Museum with their families and siblings, free from the hustle and bustle of the general public. Visitors have access to a wide-ranging programme of activities, including a chance to see, meet and even touch live animals. All activities are supported by experienced, autism-aware facilitators. A dedicated Sensory Room will also be available for those children needing a quieter and calmer space. For ages 5-15 plus their siblings.

13 May, 9 Jun DINO SNORES Ever wondered what goes on at the Natural History Museum at night? 7 - 11 years. 7pm till morning, torchlit trails through the museum, live animal shows and more. For ages 7-11.

25 Jun LITTLE MERMAID AND TALES FROM THE DEEP Join the world of the deep blue sea in this puppet show with two delightful stories set beneath the waves. Free, for children up to 7 years old.

SCIENCE MUSEUM SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk WONDERLAB: THE STATOIL GALLERY The UK's biggest interactive

Image courtesy of The National Maritime Museum CUTTY SARK science gallery is filled with speciallycommissioned exhibits and artworks, live science shows, explosive demonstrations and immersive experiences led by the museum's talent team of science communicators. Day pass £8 adult, £6 child, £22.50 families.

OUR LIVES IN DATA Information about our lives is increasingly being captured, analysed and used, transforming the world around us. From toys that can understand a child's personality and smarter public transport planning to new genomic technology that is helping uncover the causes of rare diseases and cancer, big data's invisible revolution has begun. Ages 8 to adult, free.

6 May MAGIC LANTERNS DROP-IN BSL. Put together a simple electrical circuit and make your own paper lantern to put it in, then choose from a collection of slides to project the image of some important objects from science history including the Apollo 10 command module and Amy Johnson's aeroplane. Drop-in, Suitable for deaf and hearing audiences aged 7+ 13 May, 3 Jun SCIENCE NIGHT A special overnight event for 7-13 year olds featuring exciting hands-on workshops, science shows, and a sleepover at the museum.

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk Every Sat POP UP PERFORMANCES Storytelling, interactive plays and dance.

For all ages at 11am, 1 and 3pm. Free, drop in.

Every Sun DROP-IN DESIGN Pick up a design challenge, hunt for ideas in the galleries, then create your own.

10.30am-5pm, for age 5+

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

27 May-4 Jun POP-UP PERFORMANCE Experience a playful and interactive performance as two best friends come together to create their own Music Festival. BSL interpretation on 1 Jun. 11am, 1 and 3pm. free, drop in.

27 May-4 Jun THE IMAGINATION STATION Explore unusual artworks created for iconic bands and design your own album cover. 10.30am - 5pm. Free, drop-in, for age 3+ 29 May-2 Jun MAKE-IT: MUSIC FESTIVAL Led by a music producer and promoter, work with other families to create your very own music festival.10.30am and 2.30pm. Advanced booking essential. For ages 5-12.

24 June POP-UP PERFORMANCE BSL EVENT A story of how a bowl of soup brought a village together.

11am, 1 and 3pm. free, drop in.

FREE ART FUN-BACK-PACKS, ACTIVITY CART AND ANIMAL BAGS Families can pick up an activity Back-Pack, ge creative at Drop-in-Design or go on a gallery adventure trail. Free, drop-in.

Suitable for children aged 4 to 11.

WALLACE COLLECTION W1U 3BN www.vam.ac.uk 7 May 4 Jun THE LITTLE DRAW Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities with artist Niamh Aherne. She will be exploring and rediscovering the Wallace Collection through drawing, observation and plenty of creative experimentation. 1:30 4:30pm, all ages.

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May-June 2017

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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WHAT’S ON 30, 31 May GOING FOR GOLD Join artist Luisa Rivera to create your own golden artwork inspired by the exhibition Gilded Interiors: French Masterpieces of Gilt Bronze. Free, drop-in. 10.30am 12.30pm and 2-4pm 30 May GOLDEN TREASURES Tour the Gilded Interiors exhibition with artist Alex Hirtzel before moulding and casting your own gilded relief sculpture based on the treasures you have seen.

For ages 9-12, 10.30am-3.30pm.

24 Jun CELEBRATE REFUGEE WEEK A day of activities to celebrate Refugee Week. Suitable for all the family. Free, drop-in. 11am-4pm.

DAYS OUT BRITISH LIBRARY NW1 2DB www.bl.uk 21 May TELLING TALES Listen to Norwegian tales of terrible trolls and fantastic foxes. Then become a storyteller yourself, and discover how to make a word salad for a giant story as well as

peforming your story.

For ages 5-11 at 11.30am and 2pm.

25 Jun TRAVELLING WORDS Fun and creative workshops using games, words, music and pictures to tell stories and explore our different pasts and shared futures. Free, drop-in for ages 5-11.

CHISWICK HOUSE AND GARDEN W4 2RP www.chgt.org.uk 29 Jun-10 Jul GIFFORDS CIRCUS ANY PORT IN A STORM An all new Baroque inspired circus show with a great international team including a Cuban troupe, a Hungarian Csikos rider and a Ukrainian flyer. Household favourite Tweedy returns to run amok alongside

CUTTY SARK SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Every weekend CUTTY SARK CHARACTERS Come aboard to hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past.

Suitable for ages 3+ Every Weds TODDLER TIME Bring

The Little Draw THE WALLACE COLLECTION your little sailors along for songs, stories and playtime on board. 10-11.30am for ages 4 and under.

SPECIAL EVENTS: 6, 7 May MUSICAL MAYHEM Drop into Musical Mayhem to make your own instrument and accompany the musician in a sea shanty singalong. 11.30am and 2pm, for all ages.

29 May-4 Jun THE SAILOR’S

CHALLENGE Visitors can demonstrate their sailing skills as they navigate their way around the giant gaming board, collecting cargoes from all around the world. Only the bravest need apply.11.30am and 2pm, for all ages.

FULHAM PALACE SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org every Mon and Tues THE PALACE

From Baby to Ballerina

Classes for Boys and Girls aged 21/2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances

Classes held in: Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush and South Kensington

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

May-June 2017

EXPLORERS A weekly parent/carer and toddler sessions for children aged 2-4. £3 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack.

31 May FAMILY ACTIVITY DAY: THE TREMENDOUS TUDORS Stories of Queen Elizabeth I's eventful feast at Fulham Palace, a photo booth with top to toe Tudor garb, objects to handle and a whole host of fun-filled crafts and games.

Free, no booking necessary. 11am-3pm.

10 Jun LITTLE GREEN FINGERS Explore and learn how vegetables and flowers grow. Practice sowing, planting, caring for and harvesting produce and flowers in the Walled Garden.

10.30am-12.

18 Jun EDWARDIAN GARDEN PARTY Edwardian themed family fun with music, entertainment, traditional games, storytelling, costumes and activities. Free, no booking necessary. 1-4pm.

25 Jun BEE KEEPING AT FULHAM PALACE FOR FAMILIES An interactive family-friendly demonstration led by volunteer bee keepers, with the opportunity to taste delicious honey and even make your own beeswax candle to take home.

10.30-11.30am 25 Jun THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES The lovely emperor is swindled but all shall be revealed! 2.30-5pm for ages 5+ Booking essential.

May-June 2017

HAMPTON COURT PALACE KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace Open now: THE MAGIC GARDEN Experience the legendary world of the Tudor tournament in this imaginative play garden setting. Inspired by the palace’s past, the Magic Garden is located in Henry VIII’s former tiltyard where Tudor tournaments were once held. Discover something new around every twist and turn in an immersive world populated by mythical beasts, including a 25m dragon! Take the family to become Tudor Knights, besiege the battlements, storm the Tiltyard Towers and explore a mysterious secret grotto.

Open from 10am-5.30pm.

11 May-24 Jun TINY EXPLORERS Explore and play in the palace together in one of these special multi-sensory sessions for under-4s! Discover the stories of Hampton Court Palace through music, movement, messy play and more.

Sessions take place every Thurs and Sat excluding half term week at 10.30am for babies and 1 and 2.30pm for walkers.

27 May-3 Jun HORRIBLE HISTORIES - THE BEST OF BARMY BRITAIN AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE From battling Boudicca to horrible Henry and the putrid plague, plunge into the history of Britain... with the nasty bits left in.

Find out whether Parliament survived

What the Ladybird Heard at THE LYRIC THEATRE gunpowder Guy, and what made Dick Turpin so dastardly, as the popular Horrible Histories show comes to the gardens of Hampton Court Palace.

HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk/subsites/wildlife.aspx

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

13 May WALK IN THE WOODS: WILDLIFE AREA OPEN DAY A great chance to explore a hidden corner of the park. In spring the woods are bursting with new life and growth, with woodland

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WHAT’S ON LYRIC HAMMERSMITH W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 30 May-3 Jun THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES When two ‘tailors’ promise to create the emperor an outfit that’s “never been seen before”, our eccentric Emperor doesn’t quite realise the spectacle he is about to make. For ages 3-11.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE

Aesop’s Fables at PUPPET BARGE THEATRE flowers and trees coming into leaf.

Free, drop-in, 12-4pm.

3 Jun POND OF DELIGHTS: WILDLIFE AREA OPEN DAY Have a go at pond dipping to discover its inhabitants. Learn more about the importance of ponds for wildlife and take part in craft activities. Free, drop-in, 124pm.

ODDS FARM PARK HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk A fabulous day out at the farm!

Meet the farmers and get close to the animals in the hands-on area and in the large undercover animal barns. There is a massive adventure play area with a four lane astra slide, two drop slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, swinging ropes and much more. Also a special Toddler and Under 5’s areas.

27 May-4 Jun KNIGHTS & PRINCESSES WEEK Celebrate the opening of the new Fort with shows, crafts and much more.

Mon, Tue, Wed during term-time TODDLER TIME Messy play, arts and crafts, music and singing at10.15 and 11.15am.

FAMILY THEATRE & CONCERTS LYRIC THEATRE W1D 7ES www.whattheladybirdheardlive.co.uk Book Now: 5 Jul–10 Sept WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. But they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all: The Ladybird has a plan of her own. With live music, puppetry, plenty of audience participation and lots of laughs!

A glittering treat for all the family.

W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com Until 14 May BABUSCHA BABOON The story of a baboon who wanted to fly to the moon in a hot air balloon. On the way, she meets an elephant who is threatened by ivory hunters.

String marionettes, shadow puppets, music lighting and moving poetry for ages 3+ 20 May - 9 Jul THE HARE AND THE TORTOISE AND OTHER TALES FROM AESOP An exciting collection of tales, all told with wood-carved marionettes, culminating in the classic The Hare and the Tortoise. For ages 3+ (Relaxed performance on 27 May and Captioned performance on 18 Jun).

RICHMOND THEATRE TW9 1QJ www.atgtickets.com/Richmond 2-4 Jun THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA A musical play based on the book

by Judith Kerr. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be?

What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! For ages 3+ 6, 7 Jun NORTHERN BALLET: THE BOY IN THE STRIPED PYJAMAS An unlikely friendship blossoms against the backdrop of the unthinkable events of World War II, leading to a devastating conclusion. Northern Ballet, present this heart-breaking story through dance for the very first time.

7 Jun NORTHERN BALLET: GOLDILOCKS & THE THREE BEARS Bringing this classic children’s story to life, a perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time.

SADLER’S WELLS EC1R www.sadlerswells.com 12 May NORTHERN BALLET GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS A perfect introduction to ballet for little ones.

SOUTHBANK CENTRE SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Every Fri (except 2 Jun) RUG RHYMES FOR THE UNDER FIVES A short session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories, and the opportunity to look at and borrow books. Free but booking essential.

Until 20 Aug ADVENTURES IN

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

MOOMINLAND Clamber through forests, huddle in caves or set sail on the high seas to try and find the Moomin family. Along the way you can learn how Tove Jansson created these unique characters and stories, while uncovering some special origina drawings.

8, 15, 22, 31 May, 2, 5, 12, 19 Jun DRAGON BABIES Bring your little ones to shake, rattle and gong. Gamelan for ages 3-5.

8 May, 12 Jun GONG BABIES GAMELAN Bring your babies aged under six months for a fun music workshop, with no experience required.

27, 31 May, 2 Jun FAMILY GAMELAN TASTER SESSION Play in a Javanese gamelan percussion orchestra.

For ages 6+ 28, 29 May TALES OF BIRBAL Mashi Theatre’s travelling storytellers stop by to share the enchanting Tales of Birbal, ancient stories of adventure and problemsolving akin to Aesop’s Fables. For ages 6+ 31 May OAE TOTS Introduce your child to the magic of the orchestra in these kidfriendly concerts. Join them on a musical adventure, discovering Baroque music with a theatrical twist. For ages 2-5.

THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE WC2B 5JF www.reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatreroyal-drury-lane Until 22 Jul 42ND STREET the song and dance, American dream fable of Broadway. Young Peggy Sawyer is fresh off the bus from small-town America and just another face in the chorus line on Broadway’s newest show. But when the leading lady gets injured, Peggy might just have the shot at stardom she's always dreamed of…

For age 5+

UNICORN THEATRE SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com 31 May-5 Jun THE MAN WHO KNOWS IT ALL Two performers and a musician go on a quest in search of everything it is possible to know. Along the way it becomes evident that the questions and answers just keep coming, especially when the audience gets involved. For ages 4-10.

Until 19 Aug BABY SHOW A sensory performance with captivating images and intriguing sounds that keep little ones rapt. The show playfully explores getting ready to go outside. For ages 6-18 months.

20 Jun-9 Jul DOUBLE DOUBLE ACT Are children and adults sometimes the same? What does adulthood really mean?

And what kind of things do we both find funny? A show performed with 8-year-olds and adults that playfully explores these questions. For ages 6+

May-June 2017

29 Jun-17 Jul SENSACIONAL 2017 Bring your toddler along to a sound and light show in which they are the participants. Watch as your child puts on a white suit and becomes part of a digital world of ladybirds, shapes, squiggles and squarks that won’t keep still, no matter how hard you try to catch them!

CONCERTS AND MUSIC WORKSHOPS BACH TO BABY www.bachtobaby.com/londonnorth All concerts at 10.30am.

31 May, 28 Jun in Kensington (Christ Church, Victoria Road, W8) 13 Jun in Notting Hill (St. John’s Church, Lansdowne Crescent, W11) 26 May in Chiswick (St. Michael and All Angels, Bath Road, W4)

CADOGAN HALL SW1X 9DQ www.cadoganhall.com 6 May SOUTHBANK SINFONIA FAMILY CONCERT: DO YOU SPEAK MUSIC? 36 musicians from 12 countries

May-June 2017

will be your guides through a symphony written in Italy by a German all about Scotland. Big-screen projections and lighting immerse you within the music during the concert, and then afterwards you can meet the musicians and try out their instruments. For ages 5 - 11.

ROYAL ALBERT HALL SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com 9, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 May 7, 20, 21, 27, 28 Jun STORYTELLING AND MUSIC SESSIONS FOR 0-4 YEAR OLDS Musical instruments, singing, movement and stories to developing coordination, self-confidence and awareness using songs, sounds, rhythms and rhymes.

11-14 May HARRY POTTER AND THE PHILOSOPHER’S STONE™ IN CONCERT The movie will be screened in high definition and in full on a 40-foot screen, as John Williams’ immortal score is played live on stage by a world-class orchestra and chorus.

29 May NICK COPE’S SONG BOOK Monkeys, bears, socks and mud, this man sings about everything children are really interested in! An interactive concert for ages 0-8.

30 May COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS Stand up from grown up, high-quality acts, who perform their usual sets without the swearing or rude bits. For ages 7-13.

31 May FAMILY SCREENING: JUNGLE BOOK 1 Jun STORIES AND POEMS FOR KIDS WITH MICHAEL ROSEN Classics, stories from other cultures, non-fiction and poetry for ages 7-11.

2 Jun ALBERT'S BAND PRESENTS: SYMPHONIC SUPERSTARS Favourite pieces of classical music to include lots of interactive elements for all the family to enjoy. For ages 2-16.

3 Jun CLASSICAL FOR KIDS: FANTASTIC FLUTES A relaxed one-hour concert of incredible classics for kids, featuring music by Bach, Bizet and Bernstein.

Buggies, babies and budding musicians all welcome!

24 Jun JAZZ FOR KIDS: PIANO MASTERS An interactive introduction to the greatest jazz piano players of all time. All ages.

24 Jun ALBERT'S BAND PRESENTS: A SYMPHONIC SAFARI Part of Proms at St Jude's festival– a free and fun interactive introduction to some of the best pieces of classical music related to the animal kingdom. Dress up if you want! Free all ages

WIGMORE HALL W1U 2PB www.wigmore-hall.org.uk 9 May, 15 Jun FOR CRYING OUT LOUD! Relaxed concerts for parents or

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

carers and their babies up to 1 year old.

11am and 12.30pm.

12 May CHAMBER TOTS: BEAR HUNT Music-making workshop for children aged 1 – 2. 10.15 and 11.45am.

20 May FAMILY CONCERT: SEARCH FOR THE STARLIGHT SQUID Interactive concert for families with children aged 5+. 11am.

30 May FAMILY DAY: CHAMBER CHALLENGE Interactive workshop day for families with children aged 5+, 10.30am 7 and 28 Jun CHAMBER TOTS: MINIBEASTS Music-making workshop for children aged 1 – 2. 10.15 and 11.45am.

Please check before you head out to make sure that your Days Out event has not changed after publication of your Families West magazine...

21

The importance of SLEEP for children As adults, we are more than aware of how important a good night's sleep is we need it for balance, mood stability and to enhance brain function.

And anyone who has children will concur that getting a full night’s sleep is essential to combat temper tantrums and tiredness, which can be traumatic for toddlers. Experts from the NHS think that as much as we should prioritise healthy eating and exercise, we should also be ensuring children get around nine hours of solid slumber nightly, to improve their learning.

Particularly when they are young and acquiring knowledge on everything as they begin to shape and understand the world around them, children need a requisite amount of sleep to boost retaining information and help embed knowledge from throughout the day. Ultimately, our brains need rest overnight to allow us to absorb information better, and this is even more important for young minds.

So how much sleep SHOULD they be getting?

The NHS issues guidelines for optimum sleep time for different age groups have been collected by the Millpond Children's Sleep Clinic.

These are: Between the ages of 4 and 16, children should be sleeping through the night for 11 hours, which gradually goes down to about 9 at 14, with 15-minute decrements over the time space.

Why is sleep so important?

We only need to look at some of the poor decisions or small mistakes we have made ourselves when we are tired, and we can begin to understand the importance of sleep. How many times have you started something which you then struggled to finish, simply because of the impact tiredness has on judgement and motivation?

When coupled with the vital rest time for busy, sponge-like brains, 22

getting adequate sleep makes a lot of sense. Whether it's through using sleep aids or planning a meticulous routine, there are several ways to ensure your children are reaching the requisite sleep hours for their age group.

So, how can you encourage them to sleep?

Essentially, fostering a good sleeping habit is much easier with young children than teenagers, who know how to fight back!

Laying the right foundations when they are young, and encouraging them to see sleep as a part of healthy living should make maintaining it, even when they have discovered the joys of socialising, much more straightforward.

Routine, routine, routine...

Whilst they try to convince themselves and their parents otherwise, children thrive on routine, and our brains learn when to start shutting down and getting the allimportant rest they need. Trying as best you can to instil a routine of preparing for and going to bed at the same time every night will help your child, no matter what age they are.

This includes brushing teeth and getting pyjamas on at a certain time, which starts to surreptitiously prepare the brain for sleepy time.

Getting them settled into a routine

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

means preparing the brain for its rest period.

Limit the technology For many people, the evening routine relies on technology. Be it smartphones, tablets or television, we all, including our children, use devices to unwind with at night.

However, these bits of tech are actually stimuli, which make the going to bed routine harder to implement. After dinner, try enjoying some conversation or a board game to encourage them to chat about their day and also allow the brain some all-important decompression time.

Where possible, discourage them from having TV or gadgets in the bedroom at all, as these can be used as a distraction. In fact, making sure that the bedroom is most closely associated with sleep is a better way to negotiate this obstacle - which means keeping it tidy and clutter-free.

The importance of light Whether it's through blackout curtains or nightlights, achieving the correct balance of light in your child's room is key to ensuring consistency in their sleep pattern.

Invest in some heavy duty curtains so that whether winter or summer, their room is dark, and use a little nightlight for a subtle glow that helps orientate them if they do wake up in the night.

May-June 2017

CLASSIFIED ADS & COMPETITIONS FAMILY HEALTH

HOME TUITION Private English Tuition One to one private tuition, literature and language at any level from 11+ to A2.

All sessions tailored to the student’s needs, £25 per hour.

Experienced tutor and current MA literature student with a passion for the subject.

For more information please email: danwatters13@hotmail.co.uk or call: 07879 358 009

Family Health Osteopathy Clinic Specialising in patient groups such as: Mums-To-Be New Mums Babies Children & Teenagers Mums & Dads For more information or to book an appointment please contact us on: 07710 425 301 www.familyhealthosteopathy.com Based in West Ealing

Distributors Needed Part-time work in the Ealing, Acton and Chiswick area.

Own car needed.

Please email: editor@familieswest.co.uk

Our friends at Go Ape have given us a birthday party for eight at Go Ape Tree Top Junior. One lucky winner will take on a fun filled hour in the tree-tops with their friends (exploring the canopy, trailblazing and taking on obstacles) on our adventure specially designed for kids!

Check out their web site for full details: www.goape.co.uk To be in with a chance of winning, simply email your answer to the question (just write 1, 2 or 3) to: familieswest@yahoo.co.uk

See all the latest news, views and what’s on listings on our new website:

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Q: How tall do you need to be to enjoy Tree Top Junior?

1. 1.4m 2. 1.0m 3. 0.7m

Closing date: 5pm, 31st May 2017.

Terms and Conditions: Only one entrant from same e-mail address or household will be accepted. No travel expenses are included with this prize. Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering. Entries must be received by the closing date and proof of sending cannot be taken as proof of receipt.

Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries.

All decisions of Families Magazine are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other. Winners’ details (only) will be supplied to the Promoter of the competition. Families Magazine is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition. Participation and supervision ratios apply.

By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions.

The winner is selected via a random selection process from all correct entries and contacted via the email address provided by the entrant. If the promoter does not obtain a response from the winner within 21 days, we reserve the right to select another winner at random.

‘Families West’ is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. The contents of Families West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.’

Designed by Martin Driscoll. Email: martindriscoll@yahoo.com · Printed by The MANSON Group Ltd, 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road Industrial Estate, St Albans AL3 6PZ. www.mansongroup.co.uk

May-June 2017

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

23

CLUBS & CLASSES MUSIC FOR BABIES & TODDLERS HARTBEEPS. Award-winning, original, multi-sensory musical baby and toddler classes with original music, bubbles, costumes, twinkles, sparkly parachutes, puppets and more.

Classes in West Kensington, North Kensington, Notting Hill, Shepherds Bush and Maida Vale. Contact Louise on: loulou@hartbeeps.com · 07738 522856

DANCE BALLET4LIFE. Since 2004 Ballet4life offers top quality welcoming daily ballet, dance and fitness classes taught by professionals. All classes are held in large dance studios and our programme includes creative dance classes for kids, beginner ballet and barre courses, and dance fitness. Mums and babies welcome. www.ballet4life.com Follow us: @ballet4lifeuk Like us: https://www.facebook.com/ballet4life.uk/ DANCE GALLERY. Dance Gallery is Ealing’s leading dance school and specialises in modern, jazz, tap and musical theatre productions for children aged 4-18 years old. 0208 566 9672 jill@dancegallery.co.uk · www.dancegallery.co.uk KENSINGTON BALLET 18 months - 2 years.

Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Fulham 07957 650 042 · www.kensingtonballet.com WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY Ballet classes in Chiswick & Ealing. Free Trial Lesson.

07795 578781 · natalieparnell.wlda@gmail.com www.westlondondanceacademy.com WEST LONDON SCHOOL OF DANCE 21/2 - 16 years. 020 8743 3856 westlondondance@aol.com www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk

DRAMA

ARTSED EXTRA Saturday Skills Academy. Weekly Musical Theatre, Drama and Dance classes in Chiswick - creative fun for children of all ages and abilities. For ages 4-16. ptc@artsed.co.uk · 020 8987 6692 www.artsed.co.uk PERFORM Perform weekly drama, dance and singing.

Ages: 4-12. About: A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child's true potential.

Small classes and lots of individual attention. No-obligation FREE trial for newcomers.

Summer 2017 term themes: From April, Perform 4-7s will be saddling up and going on a Wild West adventure to find the Horse with the Golden Mane.

The 7-12s will be zooming off on a fun-filled outer space adventure with Robinson Crusoe in a space-age version of the castaway survival classic.

Dates: Summer term runs until 21st July and starts up again 2nd September 2017.

Venues:Acton, Brook Green, Chiswick, Ealing, Hammersmith, Kensington W8, Ladbroke Grove, Maida Vale, Marylebone, Nottinghill, Shepherds Bush, Turnham Green, West Kensington.

020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk · www.perform.org.uk/try STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS Dance, drama and singing for 4-18 year olds.

Chiswick: 0208 398 4709 Ealing: 01494 260249 Hammersmith & Kensington: 0208 398 8106 info@stagecoach.co.uk · www.stagecoach.co.uk

FOOTBALL KIDDIKICKS Football (W2,W4,W8,W10,W11,TW8).

Available for boys and girls from 18 months to age 7.

020 7937 7965 info@kiddikicks.co.uk · www.kiddikicks.co.uk

GYM & DANCE

TWISTERS Gymnastics, Ballet,Dance Drama. Toddlers to Teenagers. 020 8933 9997 or: 020 8840 4452 twisters@btinternet.com · www.twisters.org.uk

SWIMMING WATER BABIES Maida Vale, Bayswater, Great Ormond St, Fulham. 020 7585 1510 · www.waterbabies.co.uk

LANGUAGES ARABIC for Women and Children.

Female teacher. 07956 845 053

TUTORS & LEARNING SUPPORT EXPLORE LEARNING Maths & English Tuition Centres.

5-14 years. Free Trial session.

Ealing 020 8090 8710 · Hayes 020 8561 8530 Westfield London 020 809 01216 www.explorelearning.co.uk FLEET TUTORS Private home tutoring.

020 8580 3911 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk VICTORIA PAGE Private tuition 21/2 -11years. 07050 246 810 VIVIEN BORNEMANN Home tuition, Arts, craft & design.

All ages. 020 8932 1010

ARTS & CRAFTS

FUN WITH FIMO Creative Craft Sessions for ages 6+ in Acton. www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk

BABY YOGA & MASSAGE WEST LONDON BABIES Baby Massage and yoga classes, Chiswick Sling Library, Family First Aid session, Breastfeeding Buddy sessions and Pregnant Parents Social Club. Also The Bub Hub which runs every fortnight and is a collective of professionals working together to support parents during the first year of their baby's life. Subjects covered include baby massage and babywearing, sleep, feeding, managing expectations, returning to work, Mums of More than One, 6-12 month old focus and lots more. info@westlondonbabies.com www.westlondonbabies.com