Families-LSB May-June 2012

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Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

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Your local edition covering the boroughs of

May-June 2012 Issue 44

www.Families-LSB.co.uk includes local 'What's On' for families with children 0-Teens

Parties Holiday camps and classes Local Diamond Jubilee events

www.stagecoach.co.uk

Call us on 020 8669 5187 or email Editor@Families-LSB.co.uk

news & views Picture courtesy of Angels Face.

Local stockist: Freckle Bay, Banstead

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ne EEke o FRase ta

Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

Pl

Your local edition covering the boroughs of

May-June 2012 Issue 44

www.Families-LSB.co.uk includes local 'What's On' for families with children 0-Teens

Editor: Izabella Shaw 0208 669 5187 editor@Families-LSB.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk

‘Families London-Surrey Borders’ is part of a group of magazines headed by ‘Families South West’ established in 1990. All franchised Local Diamond magazines in the group are independently owned Jubilee events and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and its agents cannot be held responsible for loss or damage, or for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted are sent Printed by Ridgeway Press Limited 01256 at owners risk and, whilst every care is taken, 882131, Bramley, Hampshire. neither Families nor its agents accept liability for © 2011 Families London-Surrey Borders. any loss or damage.

Parties

Holiday camps and classes

Call us on 020 8669 5187 or email Editor@Families-LSB.co.uk

Contents News and views......................................................................................2 Clubs, Classes and Activities............................................................ 3-5 Behind the Scenes at... MAD Academy..............................................4 Parenting: - news roundup....................................................................6 Party feature............................................................................................8 Party listings - Entertainers, venues, supplies..........................9 - 11 Education.......................................................................................12 - 15 Health - babies and toddlers.....................................................16 - 17 What’s on - Jubilee events locally.....................................................18 Book reviews.........................................................................................19 What’s on - Diary dates for families.......................................20 - 21 What’s on - Holiday camps and classes...........................................22 What’s on - Theatre listings...............................................................23 Classified advertisers...........................................................................24

Join us on Twitter and Facebook Families Magazine is now Tweeting. We’re at @FamiliesLSB. Why not follow us? Our tweets can tell you whenever we update our site with competitions, news items, and when we update the What’s On section of our site with new venues and things to do.

@FamiliesLSB

We have been alerted about a possible health risk with bracelets that contain poisonous red and black Jequirity beans. See picture (right).

The bracelets and beans contain the toxin ‘abrin’, which is a controlled substance under the Terrorism Act. If swallowed, it can kill in doses of just three micrograms (3µg). Abrin is chemically similar to ricin, a chemical warfare agent.

The bracelets have been sold through 36 retailers across the UK - one of which is the Eden Project in Cornwall.

If you have bought one of the bracelets, you should bag it, then wash your hands. Avoid touching your eyes. You can then dispose of the bagged bracelet safely in the household waste.

Etymotic earphones protect young ears Etymotic has launched two versions of ETY·Kids SafeListening Earphones. They claim these earphones can’t exceed safe volume levels, permitting children to listen safely for up to four hours a day, even at the maximum volume setting on portable players. The high-definition sound quality earphones also block out background noise so children shouldn’t complain that the volume is too low.

Available in two versions – the ETY·Kids3, a threebutton control headset with mic designed to work with Apple products, and the ETY·Kids5 universal earphone for any portable device. They are available at Amazon for around £41, or find a local dealer at www.etymotic.com/dealerlocator

Petalina is the new name for online doll shop Bambolina, the Epsom-based online store selling a wide range of beautiful dolls, is changing its name.

As of the end of May it will become Petalina. Cate O’Neill, the founder and owner says “nothing else about the business is going to change.” For the time being, you can still reach them at www.bambolina.co.uk which will link to their new website when it goes live.

Learning drums with the experts

We’re also posting updates and stories at Facebook.com/FamiliesLSB. Again, whenever we get late-breaking news or web-only competitions, we can let you know about them. But only if you ‘Like’ our page.

Sample local food in Surrey Localfoodsurrey.com is a new website that

brings together producers, suppliers and consumers of great local produce. It is the brainchild of Tracy Carroll, a devotee of good, local food and Director of The Market Place in Godstone.

The website is an informative online food and drink magazine with a directory at its core, allowing visitors to search for products and services that contribute to the county’s food scene.

To mark the website launch, Tracy is presenting Local Food Fortnight, from 28 April to 13 May, with talks, demontrations, tastings and more. www.localfoodfortnight.com www.Localfoodsurrey.com

Business owners who would like to find out more can contact Tracy or her colleague Maggie on 01883 744653 or email tracy@marketplace.uk.com 2

Get rid of this bracelet NOW!

Mashu Studios in Wallington offers expert drum tuition to students from the ages of 4 upwards. The unique feature of Mashu is that they focus on developing students into the drummers they aspire to be. That means each student is taught how to play exactly like their favourite drummers.

The curriculum includes lessons in reading notation, transcription (writing out music by ear) and composition.

Tuition in Grade Exams 1-8 is also available. All new students receive a free first introductory one-hour lesson.

Call the Studio on 020 8647 7801(Landline) or call Simon’s mobile on 0759 119 4467.

Open from 11am – 8pm Mon-Fri and 11am – 5pm Sat.

Softplay Cafe opens in Coulsdon Kiddies Softplay Cafe at Frames Sports Bar, 202 Brighton Road is the new place in Coulsdon for mums to visit with babies and children up to 10 years. Enjoy floor-level softplay, a baby area and craft activities alongside coffee and lunch. Open Wednesdays and Fridays 9.30am-2.15pm.

Entrance for under ones is £1.50, for one to 5 years, £2.50 and over 5s, £3.00. Find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KiddiesSoftPlayCafe

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

clubs and classes Free coaching sessions for juniors at Chipstead Golf Chipstead Golf Club will be offering free 30-minute taster coaching sessions for juniors on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 May. Boys and girls of all ages and abilities are welcome and equipment will be provided, if required. For more details and to book places call Gary or Nic. 01737 555781 www.chipsteadgolf.co.uk

Monkey Music comes to South Croydon Monkey Music, the UK’s premier pre-school music classes for babies and toddlers, has arrived at three venues in South Croydon and Caterham.

Proprietor Karen Chandler, said new sign-ups get the first class free. Try them out on Friday Mornings at St Paul’s Church Hall, South Croydon.

The age groups are: Heigh Ho (from 12 months) at 9.30am, Jiggety Jig (2 and 3 years) at 10.10am and Rock’n’Roll (from 3 months) at 10.50am.

She also runs classes on Tuesday mornings at Caterham United Reformed Church Hall, and Thursday afternoons at Warlingham Methodist Church Hall, in Warlingham.

To find out, more or to book your free session with Karen, call 0203 251 1061. Or visit the website at www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Avast, me Hearties - Perform the Pirate Perform drama, dance and singing workshops in Epsom, Sutton and Croydon announce their bravest and liveliest theme yet, Mermaids and Pirates.

TheatreKidz designed for Down Syndrome children A new singing and dancing class aimed specifically at children with Down Syndrome is opening at The Harrier Centre in Ewell.

From this April they are inviting all local 4 – 8 year olds to set sail on the good ship Jammy Dodger to discover faraway lands in their Mermaids and Pirates adventure.

Children will discover a world of swashbuckling sea adventures, tropical delights and buried treasure, meet the Seasick Pirate, dance the Coconut Calypso, have a Pineapple Party and discover that X Marks The Spot.

Any interested 4 – 8 year old can try out the classes by attending a free trial session.

Classes Run on Mondays in Purley and Oxshott, Tuesdays in Wimbledon, Dulwich, Ashtead and Caterham, Thursdays in Wimbledon and Oxted, Fridays in Bromley Saturdays in Reigate.

For more information please call 0845 400 1273 or email: enquiries@perform.org.uk or visit www.perform.org.uk

The group is called ‘’TheatreKidz for special stars’’ and runs alongside the TheatreKidz after school club.

The club is the brainchild of Rachel Crouch and Louise Pieri who own and run a dance academy in Guildford. Rachel has a daughter who was born with Down Syndrome in 2010.

Rachel said, “Having Ava has made me realise how able all our children are with Down Syndrome and how genuinely talented they are. This class will be a great platform for our children to showcase their talents.’’ email to info@theatrekidz.co.uk for more information or to register.

Ewell’s Arty Kids Club aims to boost kids’ creativity

Stagecoach opens new school in Coulsdon A new Saturday afternoon Stagecoach School is opening at Woodcote High, Coulsdon on 28 April 2012.

There is also a new “Early Stages” class for 4 – 6 year olds running at 11.15am.

These schools run in addition to the schools running on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings.

Stagecoach runs singing, dancing and acting classes for ages 4 – 16.

For more information on Stagecoach Coulsdon, call Principal Zoe McCready on 0845 078 0805 or go to www.stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon

The Arty Kids Club is a brand new arts and crafts kids club coming to Ewell Village. It is a fun-packed four-hour Saturday session to let your child explore and nurture their own creativity.

Each week the children will get the opportunity to create and make using a variety of different materials and resources. Artwork created from every session is for the child to keep and treasure. The well-qualified all-female team has lots of experience in working with children. All staff have up to date CRB checks.

Classes are starting on Saturday 5 May and will be held at the 2nd Ewell Rainsters Scout Hall, 106a West Street, Ewell Village KT17 1XR. 07719 502 965 www.artykidsclub.com

Confidence, Communication and Concentration Book your FREE Drama Class today Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singing classes. Our weekly workshops will do wonders for their social, linguistic and physical development as well as being the best fun they’ll have all week.

Classes for 4 – 8s and 8 –12s.

Vis witww p.p erf eroform rm.o.org rg.u .ukk to find your nearest venue.

perform.org.uk http://www.perform.co.uk 3

0845 400 1273

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

behind the scenes with...

My challenge is trying to perfect my animal impressions during the classes. Those who come to MAD in Sutton, know I’m not very good at re-creating them. My sea-lions from ‘We’re all going to the zoo’ often sound like the ‘Five little monkeys’ that are jumping on the bed. The kids can normally do a better job than me.

Q A

. What is planned for the coming months?

Q A Q A

. What is your name and title?

Ooh ooh, I’m so excited. We are giving our classes a MAD Sport theme during this Summer Term and having lots of MAD Sports parties. We have loads of new songs, dances and games to enjoy. I can’t wait.

Pauline Llewellyn, MAD Academy Instructor (or known locally as ‘The MAD Lady.’) . What does MAD Academy offer to parents (and children)

We run high energy, physical, music and movement classes for children from three months to 5 years. Classes are packed with dancing and singing, listening and rhythm games, instruments and props. The emphasis is on free spirited, relaxed fun, so parents and children can really enjoy their time together. All our activities are short, highly stimulating and developmental so that children stay engaged and learn whilst they play. We want parents and children to leave each class having shared a fantastic, exciting time and eager to come back next week.

Q A

. How can parents get the best from your classes?

The biggest thing they can do is join in the MADness. Children love the fact that we zoom around the room being space rockets or frogs or penguins. Or that we tuck ribbons into our belts and neigh like horses. But they need encouragement and love to see their mummies and daddies being just as silly – that’s the magic of the classes.

Q A

. Describe a typical non-classes day ... and a typical classes day

Non classes day: I spend my days off during the week with my 3 year old daughter. We spend lots of time with friends, exploring and making things. I try to keep these days as family time and just enjoy being a mum.

Classes day: It’s normally a bit of a blur, zooming back and forth across Sutton. I normally run two classes in the morning on three days, then drive

across town to my afternoon classes. The evenings are also very busy. Once my daughter is in bed, I spend a few hours responding to new customer enquiries, planning my lessons and deciding which fun props to play with next. If you get an e-mail from me it’s more than likely going to be sent quite late in the evening. The weekends are busy too. I run a Saturday class in Banstead every other week and I am often entertaining at children’s birthday parties. I think I will bump into myself one day with the miles I cover.

Q A

. What is the busiest time for you?

It doesn’t really stop throughout the year.

The summer months can be particularly busy. As well as termly classes, birthday parties and holiday classes, the summer brings lots of local fetes and fairs - Cheam and Banstead will be having a touch of MADness this year.

Q A

. What is your biggest headache/challenge at the moment?

Finding time to read. I love to learn more about child development and I’m particularly interested in how babies grow and learn in the early months as it helps me plan stimulating classes for babies. But finding the time to sit and read when you are running your own business, leading classes and being a busy mum is not easy.

We are also supporting ‘Make a Wish’ Foundation to help raise funds for once in a lifetime experiences for children whose futures are uncertain.

Q A

. What do you do for lunch?

I am one of the millions that has lunch on the run. A sandwich, piece of fruit and chocolate bar. Of course that’s purely for energy – I need it with all the dancing and running I do in class.

Q A

. When the end of term comes, how do you feel?

The end of term is very mixed for me.

Whilst I can’t wait to have a rest, I also know that I’ll miss the children and adults that come to my classes. The best thing is that a new term comes around very quickly and I get to have fun again with the fabulous people who come to MAD.

Q A

. What’s your best memory of running MAD Academy classes?

A little girl came up to me and said, “You are just like Josie Jump.” My reply was: “Oh, thank you.” She then said, “But you’re much nicer.” What a compliment!

Contact details

Classes in Croydon call Debbie 01689 844 848 Classes in Epsom call Karen 01372 210378 Classes in Sutton call Pauline 01372 372942 www.MADacademy.com

Free Golf Coaching for Juniors Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th May To book a FREE 30-minute fun coaching session, call Gary or Nic on 01737-555781.

These sessions are open to boys and girls of all ages and abilities

Equipment will be provided if required www.GBAcademies.com

4

www.chipsteadgolf.co.uk Tel: 01737-555781 Email: Office@chipsteadgolf.co.uk

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

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May-June 2012

clubs and classes Stagecoach to open Purley school - try it out on 6 July

Mashu

Stagecoach Croydon members on stage at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London

Studios

Expert Drum Tuition for Ages 4 and Up. Studio phone: 020 8647 7801

This September Stagecoach will be opening a new Friday evening school at Riddlesdown Collegiate in Purley. Principal Rachel Betts took over the Croydon School last year, and will be increasing the classes she offers. The new Friday evening classes will run from 4.30–7.30pm for 6–18yr olds and 4.15–5.45pm for 4–6 year olds.

one-to-one coaching in preparation for LAMDA exams; performing in the West End, as one of their dance troupes did recently; holiday ‘Show in a Week’ workshops; audition master classes from leading children’s West End casting directors and participation in workshops such as the one held last term, led by a performer from STOMP! The Musical.

The venue has plenty of parking and a large stage and hall for dance, full lighting equipment, professional black box drama studio and a specialist music room.

On Friday 6 July at 6.00pm there will be a Discovery Session where children can come and try the classes for free and secure their place for when the school opens in September. To book your place at the Discovery session or the main class, call Rachel on 0845 265 7083 or email croydon@stagecoach.co.uk

Stagecoach Croydon’s aim is to nurture and develop potential through singing, acting and dance classes, stretching young imaginations and building confidence.

They offer students many extra opportunities such as

3age groups www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub www.facebook.com/ArtyKidsClub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub http://twitter.com/#!/artykidsclub

5-7 7-9 9-11

www.theatrebugs.co.uk hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk

sp Limiatces book ed now

11am to 3pm First session Sat 5th May

The Arty Kids Club is a brand new arts & crafts kids club coming to Ewell Village. It’s a fun-packed, 4-hour Saturday session to let your child explore and nurture their own creativity. www.artykidsclub.com – 07719 502965 – INFO@artykidsclub.com

Music classes for babies and young children! ® time of music Nur turing a life

To book your complimentary class in South Croydon and Caterham call 020 3251 1061 or Email southcroydon.caterham@ southcroydon.caterham monkeymusic.co.uk @monkeymusic.co.uk

monkeymusic.com

http://www.monkeymusic.co.uk/ area/south-croydon-caterham 5

Mobile: 0759 119 4467

Action songs and rhymes Music and movement Fun with percussion Musical games Since 1993 thousands of children across the UK have grown up with Monkey Music. Our unique teaching curriculum was written by classically trained musicians, and introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy.

Rock ‘n’ roll - from 3 months Heigh ho – from 12 months Jiggety jig – 2 & 3 year olds Ding dong – 3 & 4 year olds

www.supercamps.co.uk SportsCoach Cheam If your child is sporty, great.... but they dont need to be!

Multi-sports at weekends for 4-16 year olds. SportsCoach is fun and will give your 4-16 year old sporting skills, sportsmanship and self-worth.

Tag Rugby, Martial Arts, Netball, Uni-Hoc, Fencing, Tennis, Football, Basketball, Team Building and much more!

FREE trial Enrolling now

01293 776541 cheam@sportscoach.co.uk www.sportscoach.co.uk/cheam

Winner of the Best National Pre School Activity Award.

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

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May-June 2012

parents page 50 brilliant, fun, exciting things every child should do before age 11¾

© Copyright Flickr user Kevin Krejci

Stuck for something to do? Why not get involved with the National Trust’s new campaign and discover your adventurous side. They’ve compiled a list of 50 of the best things to do outside, from stone skimming to den building.

Knowing how much fun being outdoors can be, they we want to help inspire a generation of children to get out and discover the range of incredible things that they can enjoy doing when they leave the house.

So they’ve launched a new microsite with what they consider to be the 50 best things to do outside.

Check them off to get a secret reward. The site aims to help motivate children to get outdoors and have fun flying kites, rolling down hills, cooking on an open campfire, looking for insects and all kinds of other fun things which many of us parents remember from our childhood.

Once registered, each child aims to tick off each of the 50 adventures to earn rewards to help them personalise their own virtual explorer section of the site.

Get tips on how to get better at these adventures and there’s even a few games and a special explorer medal (and secret reward) for the best explorers. www.50things.org.uk

Website helps parents compare childcare

Looking for the ideal job – to combine work, family life and be your own boss?

A Jo Jingles franchise could be what you are looking for. Jo Jingles, provides babies and children aged from 3 months to 5 years with a fun introduction to the wonders of music, singing and movement. A Jo Jingles franchise offers advantages, including: • Flexible working hours to fit around your own family life • Low start-up costs, good return on investment • On-going training including advertising and promotional support • Equipment and Class Programmes provided • Backing and support of an established brand • Franchise areas are now available from £5,500 to £9,500 plus VAT, depending on the territory.

More from Jo Jingles on 01494 778989

A new website allows parents to enter their postcode and instantly compare the various childcare providers in their area.

headoffice@jojingles.co.uk www.jojingles.com

KidzCareCompare.co.uk was set up by local mums Laura and Kelly after they struggled to find ways effectively to compare different nurseries, pre-schools and other forms of childcare.

Mums get fit with GBMAA KickFit

Laura told Families, “We are aiming at parents with children under 5 to use this service. Our target audience is also the nurseries themselves. She said they already have one of the largest databases of nurseries and pre schools in the UK and expect by the end of the year to be the biggest by far.

They have built a great, user-friendly website which ties into Google Maps and Google StreetView so that parents can instantly see what the facility looks like and its surroundings.

Launched initially on Facebook and Twitter, the site instantly generated masses of interest from parents and from Nurseries. Kidzcarecompare.co.uk

GBMAA Epsom, Leatherhead and Cobham have some great new classes on offer, not just for children and teens, but for Mums too.

New women-only classes have started up in both the Epsom and Cobham academies.

KickFit is a great fun way to keep fit and have fun with like minded people. It’s about losing weight, gaining confidence, keeping healthy and fit and having fun. Take it at your own pace and don’t feel pressurised.

Homeopathy to ease the stress

Call Saffron on 07584 473784.

The strains of raising a family and paying bills in difficult times can prove extremely stressful. But Homeopath Sunita Venchard RShom encourages us to stop and look at what stress can lead to: headaches, indigestion, diarrhoea, insomnia, anxiety, depression etc.

Train to be an NCT practitioner with the University of Worcester

Sunita who runs short courses in homeopathy explained, “So many people are having a tough time at the moment and with a little information about homeopathy they could make life a little better for themselves. Ideally, I hope to give people enough information to empower them to use homeopathy at home.”

NCT has joined forces with the University of Worcester to provide university-accredited training for prospective NCT practitioners.

Sunita, recently ran an ‘Introduction to Homeopathy’ course, teaching how to use homeopathy for fevers, ear, nose and throat infections, colic, teething, injuries etc. One mother commented “It has enabled me to care in a better way for my children and indeed my family as a whole by listening to them, observing them and understanding why they get ill.” www.sunitavenchard.co.uk

07932 620 151

Sunita Venchard lcch RSHom Homeopath 07932 620 151 Short Homeopathic Courses: Introduction to Homeopathy Homeopathy for Women Homeopathy for Stress Introduction to Bach Flowers

www.sunitavenchard.co.uk 6

Jo Jingles franchises available

NCT College admissions are open for courses beginning in September 2012.

The courses allow students to learn through a mixture of tutorials, one-to-one time with tutors and online learning. www.nct.org.uk/nct-college

Business Mums wanted….

Successful local business is seeking five partners to work part-time from home without compromising family commitments.

If you have a Managerial, Sales, Marketing, Recruitment or Self-Employed background and you want to develop a more balanced lifestyle around your family’s needs, call Katie 01737 766403 / 07909 681884

Want to make some money, meet new people and choose your own hours selling AVON products?

Why not become an Independent Avon Representative? Find out more about AVON’s fantastic self-employed earning opportunities.

Call me on 07858 098 804 or e-mail TinasTeam@hotmail.co.uk without obligation, for more information.

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

Selecting a nursery

Clothes Labelling made easy.

Reusable Dry clean

● Secure ● Comfortable ● Boil wash ● Iron proof ● Quick apply ● Small

You provide name

is as easy as...

Clothes labelling made easy

1. Go to www.kidzcarecompare.co.uk

We etch the name

We post

2. Type in your postcode

Order online at: enquiries@attachatag.co.uk www.attachatag.com email: www.attachatag.co.uk info@attachatag.com or call:

01757 638926

No sewing - No ironing - No markers

e

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3. Compare the nurseries and pre-schools

n r s Fu arn you ct u ils EE - e for Contar deta R F fo

Local author seeks mums to help sell books Could you help local mum and author Linda Unugboke to sell this delightful book?

Take advantage of one of the UK’s largest nursery and pre-school databases at..

Kidzcarecompare.co.uk www.kidzcarecompare.co.uk

Book marketing/promotion can be done in mum’s spare time. A percentage commission will be paid.

Local schools can also benefit from a give-back scheme

Call Linda on 0790 0063976 or email tomytdreamer@yahoo.com Ref: Families Mag.

Can you Hit the Right Note?

www.littlekickers.co.uk

Be part of our growing Franchise Team Business Opportunity available in the CROYDON/PURLEY area

• UK franchise established 15+ years • Full Members of the British & Irish Franchise Associations

Have fun while learning social skills and improving concentration.

Cherry Stars for 4-7 year olds

le

• From £5,500 - £9,000 + VAT depending on size of territory

Saturday classes now available for under 8s

ur h yo tale nt as

Un

• Run your own Music, Singing & Movement classes for babies & children from 3 months to 5 years of age

Learn to SING, DANCE and ACT with an Exciting West End Performer Nursery classes and children’s parties now available.

For further details call Jo Jingles on 01494 778989 www.jojingles.com /jojingleshq 7

@JoJinglesHQ

All classes at

THE BRIT SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS Limited places. Book your child’s place now.

Brought to you by Cherry Stars London’s leading early years company.

enquiries@cherrystars.co.uk or 0208 6531662 www.cherrystars.co.uk

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

party feature

Dos and Don’ts of birthday parties Top tips for that all-important party when your children are starting to make friends The party can be a make-or-break moment in their young lives

By Sarah Butters

turn up and every single one of your carefully cut cucumbers, tomatoes and grapes will remain untouched on the table by the end of the party.

DO plan early

If you think you can book your first choice entertainer and venue a fortnight before your child’s party, think again. The best people and places are fully booked months in advance and if they’re not, ask yourself why not. It’s a question I wish I had posed the year I left it late and introduced a knife juggling circus act to my 4 year old. It’s not a mistake I made twice.

Be honest. You only put those healthy things out to make sure the Annabel Karmel Fan Club in the corner didn’t fall out with you. Remember that it’s one meal, on one day and if all the birthday boy eats is a handful of Hula Hoops, a Jam Sandwich and a pack of Smarties then so what? You can force feed him broccoli for breakfast tomorrow.

DO consider a joint party

DON’T make it too long

Instead or entering into a ‘Who can get the invite out first’ race with other parents, join forces and funds. If your child has a friend whose birthday falls around the same time, why not organise a party together. If you’re going to invite the same group of friends and even opt for the same sort of party, this is a great option that halves the cost and the stress. Make sure you and your party partner are clear about the planning and the expectations.

DO decide the guest list

If you let your little one take charge of who they’re inviting, they’ll leave out the friend they’ve fallen out with in the playground. Up to the age of 7, it’s best to stick to either a full class party, or one where you simply invite all the girls, or all the boys. Tempting as it is to leave out the class troublemaker or the girl who leaves your daughter out, this is an approach that will only cause future heartache. Teach your child to be inclusive.

For nursery aged children and over 7s, it’s fine to be selective. Parties tend to become more expensive as children get older and taking 30 children to Build-a-Bear or a Laser Quest Party can easily break the bank.

DO chase late replies

There are few things more irritating than chasing the parents who haven’t bothered to respond to a party invite. Experience has taught me that parents who don’t respond within the first few days of an invite either haven’t received it, or have forgotten. Give yourself a helping hand by putting an RSVP date on the invite. After that, don’t be afraid to ‘remind’ via text or over a pick up time chat in the playground.

Avoid involving bewildered Dads at drop off.

Unless they are in charge of childcare, you’ll be disappointed. For those replies that never arrive, and there will be some, bring along some extra food and a few unmarked party bags.

DO check for allergies

In a group of 20 children, chances are there will be some allergies, and some children who can’t eat certain food for religious reasons. Don’t 8

The length of your party is very much dependant on the age of your children. But there is one consistent rule. Make sure you put a finish time on your invites. Party experts say one hour of entertainment is about as much as the average 2 – 4 year old can take, followed by half an hour for food and farewells. You can increase that to a two hour party once children turn 5 years old. assume parents will inform you. Ask about allergies when you know who is coming along.

DON’T over-cater

You are feeding a group of children not an army of starving soldiers. Appetites shrink as excitement builds. Stick to the tried and tested trio of party favourites – ham, jam and cheese.

Throw in a selection of crisps and a couple of bowls of grapes, cucumber sticks and tomatoes.

Forget leftovers. Peckish parents will clear the plates, often while their children are still eating.

DO consider your party date

It’s heartbreaking to receive a steady stream of ‘No Thankyous’ after you’ve spent weeks securing an entertainer and a venue on a particular date. Give yourself half a chance by avoiding key dates, like Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day, and religious holidays such as Easter Saturday and Yom Kippur. Parents tend to jet off on holiday as soon as school’s out, or just before term begins again, so try to avoid weekends at either end of the school holidays.

DON’T invite too many children

This is a mistake you’ll only make once. 30 children and 30 parents will fill even the most generous village hall. Add a bouncy castle and some uninvited siblings and you are nearly on riot watch.

Ask about siblings on the invitations so you’re not caught out on the day.

DON’T obsess over 5 a day

There are certain things you can depend on. If you’re having a party in your garden, it will rain; if you’ve made 15 party bags, 17 children will

For larger groups and older children, 90 minutes of party entertainment is ideal followed by a half hour party tea. When the party is over, it can be difficult to get guests moving out of the venue.

That’s when you need to be ready to hand over party bags and balloons at the door.

DO give party bags

I know you have found them in the back of your car a week after the party, but woe betide the mum who thinks she’s above a party bag. It’s a sure-fire way to get your guests sobbing as they leave. Don’t fight it, simply be creative and accept that simplicity is the key.

My ideas include popping in a children’s magazine, or in Spring, perhaps, a packet of seeds or a personalised chocolate bar with the birthday child’s picture on it (www.itsyourchoc.co.uk) And if you want to impress by being the ultimate organised mum, include a pre-prepared thank you note. Bribing a child to write notes is easier when there’s the threat of a lost party on the horizon.

DO enjoy it

There are times during the planning you will find this the most absurd piece of advice. How on earth can you expect to enjoy it? Remember that this is one of those ‘gone too quickly’ milestones and if you don’t press the pause button and enjoy the sight of your child laughing with the entertainer or bouncing with his friends then the stress simply isn’t worth it. When the balloons have burst and the cake is just crumbs, it’s those memories that will make you do it all again next year.

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

party feature PARTY PROVIDERS / ENTERTAINERS Amore Beauty Princess Pamper Parties

Kids’ Sports Camp

Belle Princesse Parties

MAD Academy

020 8286 0057 www.amoreprincesspamperparties.co.uk 07944 185 643

ButterflyCats

07402 263436 www.butterflycats.com

ButterflyCats is proud to offer parents the highest standard of face painting at affordable prices for children age 3 – 16. They offer a money back guarantee to parents and encourage late bookings. Covering London and surrounding areas.

diddi dance

Micham, Addiscombe, Croydon and Purley: 07939 520 638 or email melissa.lodge@diddidance.com Sutton, Wallington, Banstead, Epsom and Hooley: 07873 634 292 www.diddidance.com

Parties at your choice of location.

Your little ones enjoy an hour of great activities including dancing games, action songs, hoops, dance ribbons, balloons, bells and bubbles.

Their parties offer fantastic, fun and affordable entertainment which will ensure your party is the talk of the tots. For 2 – 5 years

Dramabuds Adventure Parties 020 8669 2355 www.dramabuds.co.uk

Children will be transported to the land of make believe, captivating their imagination and ensuring your child’s party is a truly magical experience that you, and they, will cherish forever.

Themes available include Jungle adventure, fairytale land, pirates , Dinosaurs and much more. 2 – 7 year olds

Flossie

07954 564372 www.flossiechildrensentertainer.co.uk

Flossie offers parents a stress free party package with good clean family fun entertainment, including comedy magic, novelty singalong songs, puppets, games, dancing, ballooning, all suitable for children aged 3 – 7 years.

9

0776 9627766

Parties offering a range of indoor and outdoor activities Debbie 01689 844 848 – Croydon Karen 01372 210378 – Epsom Pauline 01372 372942 – Sutton Parties are all about singing and dancing – and that’s what they do best. They love nothing more than bringing their MAD enthusiasm, energy and expertise to your child’s party. Let MAD Academy make your birthday party sparkle. Suitable for one- to four-year-olds.

Mother Nature Science Parties

0845 834 0986 www.mnature.co.uk

Parties for children aged 4 – 12 years.

Can be presented outdoors, at your home or at a venue of your choice.

Each party features an impressive array of spectacular demonstrations, interactive activities and children leave with fun and educational takehome experiments. Check their website for details of packages available.

FLOSSIE 020 8647 9967 1 or 2 hour Fun Filled Parties with Magic, Music, Games & Balloons.

07954 564372

www.magictheo.com

Kids’ Sports Camp Parties with a range of fun-filled, indoor & outdoor activities from ball games, racing to boot camp fitness.

Call: 07769627766

Fun Entertaining Magic for Children & Adults Free Magic Wand & Certificate for Birthday Child

020 8642 6519 (Magic Circle & Equity)

1st session

FREE!

Football training with Totstars builds 5 Cs for children ages 2 - 5 Saturday sessions Birthday packages

Communication Concentration Coordination Cohesion Confidence Nursery sessions Trained coaches

www.totstarsuk.com Call 0754 0932356 Email Totstars@hotmail.co.uk

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Perform Parties

0845 400 1273 www.performparties.org.uk

Perform Parties are high energy, fun and totally infectious kids just can’t resist joining in all the activities.

Based around one of their colourful themes and involving lots of lively games, songs and improvisations, they use the power of children’s imaginations to get everyone involved. Themes include Mamma Mia, High School Musical, Mermaids and Pirates, Superheroes, Fairytale Forest, Peppa Pig and In the Night Garden.

Parties available in all areas within a 90 minute drive of Central London.

For one- to 12-year-olds.

Theatrebugs

01483 882244, 07971 004134 www.theatrebugs.co.uk

Parties that are an interactive fun-filled journey crammed with tasks, characters and different worlds to explore. Full of storytelling, imaginative play, drama games and fun - perfect for 2 – 8 year olds. “The perfect solution

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy

Birthday parties too!

Classes in the Sutton Area Contact Pauline on 01372 372 942 email: pauline.llewellyn@madacademy.com Classes in the Croydon Area Contact Debbie on 01689 844 848 email: debbie.mason@madacademy.com Classes in Ashtead, Epsom, Tadworth & Effingham Contact Karen on 01372 210 378 email: karen.morgan@madacademy.com

www.madacademy.com madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

party feature for a party to remember!” Janet, Barnes.

Party bags and face painter also available.

Come and Play at

Kidplay Café

• Soft play frame • Toys and activities • Birthday parties • Coffees & Teas • Special events • Party partners • Snacks and cakes Lower Addiscombe Rd, Croydon CR0 7AE

tel: 020 8655 1583

enquiries@Kidplaycafe.co.uk

www.kidplaycafe.co.uk

Theo The Magician

07711 724129 theo@magictheo.com www.magictheo.com

A Magic Circle and award winning Surrey magician. His most popular children’s party is a two hour show for 4 – 7 year olds, which includes magic, games and plate spinning.

He also offers a Harry Potter Show with Quidditch Games and for children aged 8+; magic workshops teaching card tricks; balloon modelling and plate spinning tricks. For all ages from 1 – 101 years old.

PARTY VENUES Arty Café

16 Station Rd, Belmont, SM2 6BH.

020 3581 8062 www.artycafe.co.uk

No Party like an Arty Party Whether for a birthday, hen do, anniversary or any gettogether, a wide choice of arty/crafty activities are offered, suitable for all ages.

If you have a venue in mind, they can also come to you.

See the website for the range of parties available.

Prices start from just £8.00.

Party food can be provided, if required.

3-7 Middle St Croydon CR0 1RE

020 8680 2088 www.beaniescafe.co.uk

Parties for ages one to 12 years. Options available include the Playful Beanies party (perfect for little ones), Beautiful Beanies (pamper / princess), Dancing Beanies (Disco) and Sporty Beanies. All professionally run with a range of party games, activities and full catering.

Imaginative Drama Classes

dramabuds adventure parties too

020 8669 2355

www.dramabuds.co.uk

p

W

ar e The springboard to tie do confidence for your child s to

o!

Tumble Tots is Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play Programme for children from 6 months to 7 years

Croydon areas: call Ant on 07743 103208 Ewell, Cheam, Morden, Woodmansterne: call Debbie on 07710 424460 www.tumbletots.com

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07540932356 totstars@hotmail.co.uk www.totstarsuk.com

Bespoke Football parties for 2 – 5 year olds.

Totstars qualified and experienced football coaches will come to a venue of your choice. They specialise in tailoring the party to the age and desires of your child with the use of hundreds of fun games and aim to create a day to remember. They can coach up to 24 children and will travel to most parts of London and Surrey.

Tumble Tots Parties www.tumbletots.com

For Croydon areas, call Ant on 07743 103208 For Ewell, Cheam, Morden,Woodmansterne areas, call Debbie on 07710 424460 Party options, available at weekends: Active Antz – For under 5s, comprising of soft play and a bouncy castle; Superbounce – 5 years to 15 years – as previous but with trampoline and a qualified trampoline coach in addition; Dolphin Slide - pool inflatable + floats; Aquarun - pool inflatable + floats.

Everyone Active Sutton Arena

020 8770 4088 www.everyoneactive.com

No mess, no stress just fun. Sutton Arena offers a variety of parties which include Toddlers World (0 – 4 years) Playworld (2 – 10 years) and Football (5 – 9 years). Each session allows for one hour play, followed by 45 minutes in the tea area.

Glazed All Over

102 Stafford Road, Wallington SM6 9AY

020 8647 6463 www. glazedallover.co.uk

Beanies

www.diddidance.com

Growing Buds 2 - 4 years Full Blooms 4 - 7 years Classes in Carshalton, Cheam, Croydon & Worcester Park

Totstars

Bocketts Farm Park

Young Street, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Parties offering animals galore, exciting play areas, tractor rides and animal handling sessions, plus the menu of your choice in one of the decorated party rooms. £11.50 per child. Early booking recommended.

Optional extras include party bags, adult catering and a farmyard cake. For 0 – 8 years.

Craggy Island Climbing Centre Sutton Oaks Sports Centre, Woodmansterne Road, Carshalton SM5 4AN 0844 880 8866

www.craggy-island.com/kids-fun-parties.php

Parties providing a unique subterranean experience, in a labyrinth of caves, tunnels and chambers. For children aged 5 years upwards.

Everyone Active / SLM Ltd / Cheam Leisure Centre 0208 770 4830 www.everyoneactive.com

Painting and Decopatch parties for all ages and occasions. They offer two hour sessions: 1½ hours for the activity and 30 mins for party food and cake, which they are happy for you to bring by prior arrangement. See website for full details.

Heritage Farm Nurseries

38 Telegraph Track, Little Woodcote, Wallington, SM6 0SH 020 8647 5790 / 020 3441 3361 www.heritagefarmnurseries.co.uk

An ideal venue for children’s parties with indoor and outdoor play facilities for younger children and fascinating animals for young and older children alike. Their Animal Encounter parties feature animals range from caiman and snakes to chinchillas and hamsters and offer 30 – 40 minutes of hands-on interaction. See website for lots of different options.

Kidplay Cafe

282-284 Lower Addiscombe Rd, Croydon, CR0 7AE 0208 655 1583 www.kidplaycafe.co.uk

Soft play and cafe catering for children aged 5 and under and their families. All types of parties and celebrations catered for from £9.99 per child (including food). Private hire available. Allergies or special requirements, no problem. Small, family run venue for a personal touch. For ages 5 and under.

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

party feature Kidspace Adventures

The Colonnades, Purley Way Croydon CR0 4RQ 020 8686 0040 www.kidspaceadventures.com/croydon/parties

CAKES and CUPCAKES Cakes & Cones Bakery Epsom, Surrey, KT18 7HQ

07877 387189 www.cakesandcones.co.uk

Let it Be Cake

07932 564 033 www.letitbecake.co.uk

Kidspace Adentures offers funky party zones, the Pod Pizzeria restaurant and one of the largest indoor play structures in the UK. Various packages available with optional extras including children’s champagne, party bags, adult food platters. See website for more details.

Laserquest Sutton

Super Bowl, St Nicholas Way, Sutton SM1 1AT 020 8686 0003 www.lqsutton.co.uk

Littlejellybugs Parties

Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell Village, Surrey, KT17 1UF 07917 117 165 www.littlejellybugs.com

Party Rockers

07766 932 075 www.party-rockers.co.uk

Parties held in Sutton venue

Make & Bake Children’s parties

Held at Pistachios in the Park, Banstead 07792 663126 or amber@vivid-events.com

Sutton Birthday Parties

Located within Sutton Tennis Academy.

020 8641 6611 www.suttonbirthdayparties.com

Sutton Palace Superbowl St. Nicholas Way, Sutton

www.palacesuperbowl.com/main/sutton.html 020 8770 1221

The Old Whitgiftian Association, The Clubhouse

Croham Manor Road, South Croydon, Surrey, CR2 7BG 020 8686 2127 clubhouse@owa.org. www.owa.org Whether you want a Sports party, a disco or an entertainer, the Old Whitgiftian Association can help you. With a venue offering fantastic grounds and clubhouse facilities, plus on-site catering offering food for all menus and budgets, your child will have a fun-filled party.

Whitehall , Cheam Village

020 8643 1236 www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk

Ooh la la cakes

Woodmansterne, Surrey 01737 36 22 44 / 07758 518 766 www.oohlalacakes.co.uk

One of a Kind Cake Co. Coulsdon, CR5 2NE

020 8660 3605 www.oneofakindcakeco.co.uk

The Sweet Cake Fairy

07891 406 865 www. thesweetcakefairy. co.uk info@glazedallover.co.uk www.glazedallover.co.uk

Amazing cakes made of sweets for all ages — adults as well as children.

PARTY EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES www.amazepartyshop.com

For all your balloons and party needs. Based locally in Ashtead, Surrey.

Jesters

Croydon shop: 020 8667 9394 Epsom shop: 01372 740653 www.jesterspartyshop.co.uk

www.butterflycats.com

Everything you need for a party from invitations to party bags.

facepainting@butterflycats.com

Mad About Parties Ltd

07585 776484 www.madaboutparties.com

Party equipment for hire including bouncy castles, soft play toys, garden games and mini marquees ideal for any special event. Available for indoor or outdoor use. Suitable for ages 3 years upwards.

www.families-LSB.co.uk/local-directory

For Local Party services

Partyplus-SM5

7 The Parade, Pound St, Carshalton SM5 3RJ 020 8647 2964 www.partyplus-sm5.co.uk

For other local services

For all your party supplies

Party Superstores, Sutton www.partysuperstores.co.uk

Balloon Fantastic

And much more, visit...

07818 615 626 www.balloonfantastic.co.uk

Balloon decoration and balloon twisting for all occasions.

www.families-LSB.co.uk/local-directory

ArtyCafe .co.uk

for all yourParty needs

Parties

Painting Jewellery Clay Crafting Deco Patching

Activities

Messy Play Pottery Gallery Adorable prints

Food

Sandwiches Salad sticks Seasonal fruits Fairy Cakes

16 Station Road, Belmont, Surrey, SM2 6BH Tel 020 3581 8062 11

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

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May-June 2012

education Levi Roots visits Thames pupils

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OPEN DAYS City of London Freeman’s School, Ashtead 01372 822423 - Thu 24 May, Wed 27 Jun: Coffee morning with senior management and tour of school 9.45am; Thu 14 Jun : Freemen’s Fun 4.15pm; Wed 20 Jun: Open Evening 6.30pm Chinthurst School, Tadworth 01737 812011 Fri 4 and Sat 5 May: Open Morning 9.30 – 12.00pm.

Croydon High School 020 8260 7508 Wed 16 May: Nursery and Reception taster morning 10.30 – 11.30am; 17 May: Junior School open morning 9.30 – 12.00pm Cumnor House Boys School and Tree Tops Nursery (Pampisford Rd), South Croydon 020 8660 3445. Fri 18 May: 9.15 - 11.30 Open morning for main school and nursery.

Levi Roots, the man who famously slayed the dragons on BBC’s Dragons’ Den with his Reggae Reggae Sauce, recently visited Thames Christian College in Battersea to share how he managed to create a brand for a sauce that, in the week it launched in Sainsburys, out-sold Heinz Tomato Ketchup across the supermarket chain.

During Assembly, Levi talked openly about being an entrepreneur, offering practical advice with personal anecdotes of success, mistakes made and lessons learned. As you’d expect from the charismatic Levi he instilled motivation and inspiration in the pupils and fired them up to present their own business ideas to him.

Acting as a ‘Dragon’ he listened to the pupils’ business pitches and offered sound advice. The winning team, pictured with Levi had the idea of renovating second-hand vans, personalising them for commercial customers and selling them on for a profit.

Ralph, one of the pupils on the winning team comments: “Levi Roots is an inspiration, he has really given me the confidence to strike out with my own original ideas. His advice has been invaluable and made me realise I can achieve success if I plan hard and action my ideas.”

Thames Christian College has a good relationship with Levi Roots and is lucky enough to have its school dinners provided by Levi’s own café next to the school. www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Cumnor House Girls School and Tree Tops Nursery, Purley 020 8660 3445. Fri 11 May: 9.15 11.30 Open morning for main school and nursery.

Greenacre School, Banstead 01737 352114 Tue 8 May and Wed 27 Jun: Prospective Parents’ Mornings, by appointment from 10.30am.

Kingswood House School, Epsom 01372 723590 Thu 10 and Sat 12 May: Open morning 9.30- 12.00pm Laleham Lea School, Purley 020 8660 3351 Fri 25 and Sat 26 May: Open morning 10.00 -12.00pm.

Old Palace of John Whitgift School, Croydon 020 8688 3863.

Wed 2 May: Seniors open morning 10.30 - 12.00 (Old Palace Rd. site); Wed 23 May: Juniors open morning 08.30 - 10.00 (Melville Ave. Site) Priory Preparatory School, Banstead 01737 366920 Sat 19 May: Open morning 10.00 - 12.00pm.

Seaton House School, Sutton 020 8642 2332 Sat 28 Apr: Open morning 10.00 – 1.00pm

Downsend School, Main school - Leatherhead 01372 372311. Fri 11 May open morning Headmaster’s Talk 9:30 am.

St. Christopher’s School, Epsom 01372 721807 Fri 11 May : Open morning 9.15 - 10.30am

Downsend School, All Lodges - Ashtead, Epsom and Leatherhead 01372 372311.

Sat 12 May: Open Day 2.00 – 4.00pm.

Thames Christian College, SW11 020 7228 393. By appointment by contacting the registrar, Catherine Holsgrove.

Laleham Lea wins accolades from Inspectors Laleham Lea has received a glowing report after a four-day inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).

Inspectors said pupils were well educated throughout the school and the educational development of children in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) was excellent. It also stated that all of its pupils were thoroughly grounded in literacy, numeracy and information and communication technology (ICT) – making them “well prepared for the next stages of their education”.

The school, which takes children from three to 11 years, was particularly praised for its academic rigour and excellent range of extracurricular activities, with inspectors commenting on the pupils’ success in competitive team sports against other schools.

It also highlighted that the, “most important” strength of the education provision throughout the school was its inclusiveness, with the school’s “ambitious aim to find the unique gift in every child, no matter what the subject or whether it is academic, practical or social and emotional” as being fulfilled.

Headmistress Johanna Staunton said she was extremely pleased with the report – especially since both the report and increasing pupil numbers confirmed the right direction of the school’s new initiatives introduced since April 2009.

Full details of the report can be obtained from the ISI website: www.isi.net

Seeking Young Poets for prizes The Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award is an opportunity for any young poet aged 11 – 17 to boost their writing career.

It’s free to enter, but the deadline is 31 July 2012.

There are two prizes available for the 15 overall winners of the award. The 14 – 17 year olds get the chance to attend a week-long residential course at The Hurst in Shropshire, where they will be tutored by this year’s judges Christopher Reid and Helen Mort.

juniorschool@follysend.org 12

The younger age range winners (11 – 14 year olds) will receive a visit to their school from a professional poet, followed by distance mentoring.

Enter online at www.foyleyoungpoets.org

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

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May-June 2012

www.jancettplaysafe.co.uk

Laleham Lea School

For ages 4 - 11 years

Playsafe Holiday Clubs

Catholic Independent Primary School for boys and girls aged 3 to 11 years.

Open Days: Thursday 29thMay September & Saturday 1st October Friday 25 & Saturday 26 May, 2012 10.00am am to to 12.00 12.00 noon 10.00 noon The school provides a broad, balanced and challenging curriculum within a happy learning environment.

•

Holiday Club Is Open at Beano’s, Carshalton Collingwood, Wallington Dazzlers, Worcester Park Satellites, Wallington Stanley’s, Carshalton Buddies, Purley*

•

Excellent academic results Small classes with inspiring and dedicated teachers Outstanding sports facilities Specialist MFL, music and sports teachers After school clubs available every day A caring and supportive atmosphere for a happy and successful school

•

•

•

•

Laleham Lea School, 29 Peaks Hill, Purley, Surrey CR8 3JJ Tel: 020 8660 3351 www.lalehamlea.co.uk

7.30am - 6.30pm Monday to Friday *Open until 6.15pm

For our club dates please visit: www.jancettplaysafe.co.uk Head office: 020 8669 1725 Email: admin@jancett.co.uk Jancett House, 16 Stanley Park Road, Wallington, Surrey SM6 0EU Or visit our website: www.jancettplaysafe.co.uk

Improve your child’s study skills with Kumon Our maths and English study programmes work to improve your child’s skills, unlocking their potential, inspiring a passion for lifelong learning and building the self-confidence to achieve both in and outside the classroom.

Contact your local study centre today

Belmont Croydon Central Croydon Shirley Mitcham Purley

01737 306 013 020 8686 6833 020 8681 1031 020 8656 2075 020 8660 2602 kumon.co.uk www.kumon.co.uk

Nursery and Junior School Open Morning Saturday 22nd September 2012 8.30am to 12.30pm

Equipping pupils for a changing world www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Exceptional independent secondary school for boys & girls For enrolment and all inclusive fee details call 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, Wye Street, London SW11 2HB

13

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

TCC6106 - Advert in Families, December 2011 V1.indd 1

May-June 2012

09/12/2011 09:12

education

10 things your child should be able to do before they start school As soon as you find out which school your child is going to this September, it’s time to start preparing. Forget force-feeding them phonics, this is about getting your child ready for the social challenges of school. The more prepared they are, the easier they will settle and the more they’ll get out of those early days. will make your child unpopular with their classmates. Reputations earned in the early days of school tend to stick and can be hard to shake off.

By Sarah Butters

1. Can they dress themselves?

Imagine the scene. One teacher faced with thirty children and their coats. By the time each child is zipped up and wrapped up, playtime is over. If your child is able to go some way to helping, they may get some fresh air.

6. Can they use scissors?

Teachers look for this in the early stages of Reception to evaluate dexterity. Get crafty over the next few months.

7. Are they able to count?

If you can see buttons on trousers and skirts becoming a problem during the after-PE change, invest in elasticated waistbands. These will also help during any ‘last minute’ toilet visits. Avoid tights in the early days - they can also lead to unnecessary bathroom accidents. With shoes, stick to Velcro fastenings which your child can do themselves.

If your child is able to count up to 20, and count back from 10, this will give them a really good head start. Use some of their favourite toys or foods to make counting fun. Lay out 10 grapes and get them to eat them one by one, counting as they go. It will give them confidence and help them see learning as fun. It’s also a great way to get one of their 5-aday down them.

2. Are they used to sharing?

Sharing is a difficult lesson for a child to learn, especially if they only start learning it at school. But it’s a vital lesson if you want your child to settle in and make friends easily. No one wants to play with the child who refuses to take turns and share, and before long that child becomes isolated. Start to make a point of praising your pre-schooler for sharing his bag of figures or his last few sweets.

8. Are they able to recognise their (written) name?

If your child can recognise their name, they’ll be able to find their peg, identify their drawer in the classroom and find their cardigan if it gets misplaced. Starting school can make even the most confident child feel a little lost. If they can locate important places, it will make them feel more in control.

3. Can they use the toilet on their own?

Reception classrooms usually have a toilet nearby but children are expected to use it on their own. That can mean less confident children avoid a visit until it’s too late. Encourage your child to begin taking toilet trips without you to build up their confidence. Remind them that hand washing is part of the ‘visit’. Beginning school toilet training now will mean fewer accidents in September.

4. Are they able to eat independently?

9. Can they communicate with an adult?

Giving your child the skills to communicate with their teacher means they will be able to have some control. How else will they ask to go to the toilet? If they don’t understand how to get the attention of an adult, how will they let their teacher know they don’t understand their work? A child who can communicate will get more out of the school day than a child who is unwilling to speak up. Encourage your child to ask and even practice with a raised hand at home to make sure they understand the most appropriate way of getting a grown ups attention.

Lunchtimes can be a real flashpoint in the early days of your child’s school life. Dinner halls are noisy places and can make a child feel overwhelmed.

Make sure they arrive at school able to pick up and use a knife and fork. If 10. Can they follow simple instructions? they’re opting for a packed lunch, make sure they can open a yoghurt, put a The school day is full of instructions. Your child will be asked to put coats straw in a juice box and unpeel a banana. With school a few months off, it on pegs, bring packed lunches into classrooms and sit cross legged on the may seem like the easier option to feed carpet for circle time. If a child is used them, but it won’t help in the long run. to following instructions, they will avoid Practice–however painful–makes perfect. SOME BOOKS YOU MAY FIND USEFUL: being reprimanded. The more time a teacher dedicates to repeating * I am too absolutely small for school (Charlie and Lola) 5. How about discipline? instructions and encouraging by Lauren Child It’s important your child understands co-operation, the less time there is for what’s expected of them when they * Topsy and Tim Start School by Jean Adamson teaching. Start setting your child simple arrive at school. They need to know tasks – perhaps helping with the weekly * Starting School Sticker Book (Usborne) by Felicity Brooks hitting, kicking, biting and hair pulling will shop or with some straightforward jobs not be tolerated. Not only will it bring * Going to School (Usborne First Experiences) by Anna Civardi around the house. It will prepare them your child to the attention of the head * Starting School by Janet and Allan Ahlberg for school life. teacher for all the wrong reasons, but it 14

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

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May-June 2012

HOMEFIELD

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

You probably think your daughter is unique.

Old Palac Nurser

For boys aged 3 -13 Give your child the best start in life

84 scholarships to Senior schools in the last 3 years

We certainly do.

75% Level 5 at Key Stage 2 in 2011 Come and find out more about our exceptional school.

Under-13 National Preparatory Schools Rugby Champions

Old Palac Junior

Nursery and Reception Taster Morning 16th May, 10.30 am-11.30am Junior School Open Morning 17th May, 9.30 -12pm

National Chess Prize Winners Outstanding pastoral care

Call 020 8260 7508 for more details.

Expectation without pressure Please contact us for a tour

Girls who are going places go to Croydon High School

www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk

020 8642 0965

An Independent Day School for Girls aged 3 -18 Croydon High School ESTD. 1874

www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

Old Palac Senior

The very best start in life

Old Palac Sixth Form

Reception places available for September 2012 Tel: 020 8686 7347 Old Palace Nursery

www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org

15

Old Palace Juniors

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May-June 2012

Old P S

babies and early years page

Mind Your Posture in Pregnancy This is the first in a series of three articles about looking after your back before and after your baby is born.

Avoid high heels and wear comfortable, supportive shoes.

Many women experience an increase in lumbar curving during pregnancy due to the increased weight being carried out in front. This puts more pressure on some of the joints of the spine, causing discomfort and, for some women, pain.

Even after giving birth, problems caused as a result of irritated joints and nerves can take a while to resolve.

If you have children already, it can be difficult as they will need lifting and carrying. Always lift with your spine straight and bend knees to avoid leaning, stretching or unnecessary back bending.

Do not sit down for prolonged periods, take a regular break and, when sitting, let the seat take your weight and, if possible, keep as much of your body in contact with the chair so that your whole body is supported. Knees should be lower than your hips.

Helpful exercises include ‘cat stretches’ and lying on the back and bringing knees towards the chest either side of bump for as far as is comfortable. Sleeping with a pillow between the legs may help too.

As breasts grow larger, women may experience upper back aches and pain as there is more pressure being put on the upper back.

Getting measured for bras regularly throughout your pregnancy will help make sure you are wearing the right size and, therefore, getting the maximum support possible.

Also, do some stretches, such as bringing arms in a circle across the front of you and then push back against your hands.

Neck stretches are also useful and can be achieved by bringing the head forward and to the side in order to stretch down the upper back.

As pregnancy progresses into the final stages, relaxin is released in order to prepare for birth and does exactly what it says: softening the Watch out for special buggy exercise classes in your area, such as Legs Bums and Mums who operate in Carshalton and Wallington.

Call Jo Cullen on 07818 036662.

Follow chiropractor Louise Hampton on her blog: Healthybacks.wordpress.com Further information about chiropractic can be obtained from www.chiropractic-uk.co.uk For further information contact the British Chiropractic Association on 0118 950 5950 © British Chiropractic Association 2011 This information may not be reproduced without permission of the British Chiropractic Association. enquiries@chiropractic-uk.co.uk

Post-Natal Posture Advice muscles, ligaments and tendons. At this time it is easy to overstretch or lift something and cause more of a problem than normal. Knee and ankle pain is less common during pregnancy, but can occur at this time due to the relaxation of muscle support and the increase in weight in the final trimester.

Try to keep stretching leg muscles to make sure unnecessary extra pressure is not put on the knees.

Elevate legs whenever possible to offset any weight pressure and reduce any swelling - ankle circles will also help.

If suffering with back, neck or joint pain, chores such as vacuuming should be avoided, as well as walking long distances and carrying bags.

General Posture Advice The fitter you are and the more muscle tone you have before pregnancy, the more likely you are to be able to cope with the body’s postural changes.

Core exercises are very useful and you can talk to a chiropractor, GP, midwife or other healthcare professional for advice on this.

During pregnancy, specialist yoga classes, taken from 12 weeks onwards, can be very beneficial.

Swimming and aqua natal classes are also of benefit, as being in the water takes the pressure off strained joints whilst providing good exercise and relaxation.

Fun, local classes

Try doing lots of gentle stretches and do pelvic floor exercises whenever possible.

Before lifting your baby, gently suck your tummy in to provide a corset of support for your back.

After three months start doing more brisk walks out with the pram, continue to stretch and, as well as pelvic floor exercises, start to do sit ups and stomach exercises. Doing exercises and getting out and about each day will not only help you physically but will also help a general feeling of well-being. Arrange group walks with friends and other mums/dads – make it a regular event.

Breast warmers relieve pain Breast warming pads provide fast and effective relief from hard, sore or lumpy breasts and can help with expressing and blocked ducts.

The slim, light, comfortable pads slip inside the mother’s bra and need no other equipment such as electricity, microwaves or any other technology, to work.

More at www.enviro-pod.co.uk

Parent & Baby Swimming Lessons Weekends and Weekdays

info@tinyfins.co.uk 07757 689303 www.tinyfins.co.uk 16

Relaxin stays in the body for a prolonged period of time after pregnancy, especially if you breastfeed, so you must continue to be very careful when it comes to carrying, walking and lifting.

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

ths 4 monards w p u

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May-June 2012

babies and early years page © Copyright Flickr user John-Morga

Ask the Phonics expert in May, to prepare for the school tests for 6-year-olds from 18 June onwards Parents are invited to ‘Ask the Expert’ ahead of this term’s first-ever Year 1 phonics screening check.

During the week of 18 June, all six-year-olds across England will be tested on their phonics.

This is a government initiative intended to ensure children are on track with learning to read

Join the Sutton fostering community

Many parents will be looking for ways to help their child prepare for the check. To support these parents, Oxford University Press is launching ‘Ask the Expert’: a week-long, live online Q&A session with phonics expert Laura Sharp.

Laura will be online between the hours of 7pm and 10pm from Monday 21 to Friday 25 May to offer tips and advice.

Parents are invited to ‘Ask the Expert’ by posting questions to the Facebook group where the Q&A will be held www.facebook.com/oxfordowl.

They can also follow the conversation live on the Facebook group.

Parents can also visit www.oxfordowl.co.uk for more phonics resources and advice and a range of interactive free eBooks.

Oxford Owl publishes ‘My Phonics Kit’ – an activity pack for parents to use with their Year 1 child, which features familiar characters Biff, Chip and Kipper from the Oxford Reading Tree scheme, used in 80% of primary schools.

Laura is an independent phonics advisor who has been working with Oxford University Press since Autumn 2011 on the development of ‘My Phonics Kit’. www.facebook.com/oxfordowl.

Fostering: take time to care for another child

We urgently need foster carers who can provide a stable environment for older children and teenagers Find out more at our open evening on Monday 14 May at 7pm. If you would like to attend, or want more information, email us on sutton.fostering@sutton.gov.uk, visit www.suttonfostering.org.uk or call 020 8770 6672 today.

The open evening will be at Civic Offices, St Nicholas Way, Sutton SM1 1EA

Win!

one of the best-loved family holidays in the land

One lucky family can win a three night weekend stay with Feather Down Farm Days this September worth £500!

Since the tragic death of baby Peter Connelly in August 2007, more and more children have been coming into care. As the vast majority of children in care live with foster families, thousands of new foster carers are needed.

Children should live with a foster carer whose skills and experience meet the child’s individual needs. The shortage of foster carers means fostering services often struggle to find the right home for a child, first time.

As a result, children often have to live with a foster family a long way from their home, are split up from their brothers and sisters, and have to move from family to family and school to school.

Frequent moves result in children missing out on the stability they need to help them make friends and build other relationships, and to be in one place long enough to receive the support they need to succeed in education.

A wider pool of foster carers with the right skills and qualities would make it more likely that the right homes can be found for children first time, giving them the best chance of a happy childhood and a successful future.

See www.couldyoufoster.org.uk or call Fosterline on 0800 040 7675.

17

Farmers Robert and Jayne look forward to welcoming one lucky reader to Billingsmoor, their picture postcard organic farm in mid Devon. Their tranquil herd of Friesians, Kunekune pigs, sheep and chickens will soon lift the cares of daily life from your shoulders. You'll enjoy spectacular views across rolling countryside whilst your children enjoy the sort of freedom you remember from your youth.

To enter simply go to: www.familiesonline.co.uk/featherdown Closing date for entries: 9am, 2nd July 2012 Please quote this competition code: FDF2012

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May-June 2012

what’s on

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline...

Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee 2012

Get ready for the celebrations across London this summer. 2012 not only marks the Queen’s 60th year as Monarch, but she is also the first to celebrate a Diamond Jubilee since Queen Victoria in 1897.

Izabella Shaw Local Events Sat 26 May St Martins Church Jubilee Fair Church Street, Epsom, KT17 4PX www.stmartinsepsom.org

12.00 - 4.00pm. You are invited to a fun afternoon of face painting and children’s games; plus a red, white and blue stall and others with bric-a-brac, scarves and jewellery, hats and bags, plants and homemade cakes. There will also be ploughman’s lunches and cream teas available. Free admission.

Sun 27 May Aragon Primary School Summer fair Aragon Road, Morden, Surrey SM45QN

Tue 5-Sat 9 June Crown and Tiara Colouring competition Wallington Library 020 8770 4900 Sat 9 June Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Ashtead Village Day Recreational Grounds, Barnett Wood Lane, Ashtead KT22 2BZ

© Copyright PLinda Scannell Photography, www.lindascannell.com

By Joanna Parry and

10.00 – 4.00pm. Programmes (in advance) £2.00 available from the two Ashtead Post Offices and many other local shops, and £4.00 on the gate Sun 10 June NCT Sutton and Epsom Teddy Bear’s Picnic Nonsuch Park, Cheam.

12.00 – 4.00pm. The annual Teddy Bears’ Picnic organised by the Sutton and Epsom Branch of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) has a royal theme this year to mark the Queen’s Golden Jubilee year. Sponsored by Stagecoach Sutton and Sutton High School, the picnic will include special ‘best dressed teddy’ and ‘best dressed child’ competitions, themed around princes and princesses. The event promises to be a fun-filled afternoon for local families, so bring your teddy bears, your little ones, a picnic lunch and come prepared for all weathers to finish your jubilee celebrations in style.

12.00 – 3.00pm. A celebration of the Queens Diamond Jubilee with lots to entertain the whole family.

Sat 2 June Crown Jewels Arts and Crafts Whitehall, 1 Malden Rd, Cheam, SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 www.friendsofwhitehall.co.uk

2.30 – 4.00pm. Get ready for the Diamond Jubilee by making crowns and other jewellery, inspired by the finery of the Tudor kings and queens, to wear on Jubilee day. Booking recommended.

Suitable for 5 – 11 year olds. £4.00 per child Sat 2 – Tue 5 June Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Street Parties and Big Lunch Events

The Big Lunch is encouraging residents to host a street party on 3 June. If you are planning a street party or Big Jubilee Lunch visit the following websites, before 4 May for more information/register to close your road: Sutton - www.sutton.gov.uk/ summerfestival

Croydon - www.croydon.gov.uk/ diamondjubilee Sun 3 June , 12.30 to 4pm The Big Lunch Haling Grove, Croydon

Join the Friends for this nationwide community lunch and family fun in the park. For more information contact friendsofhalinggrove@mail.com

Sun 3 June, Jubilation street party Priory Park, Reigate

Local charity Loveworks have organised an all afternoon and evening party for all the family including games, stalls, live jazz music, refreshments and a Victorian fair. Visit the Loveworks website www.loveworks.org.uk to find out more.

Mon 4 June Wallington Jubilee Street Party Wallington Library car park

11.00 – 2.00pm. Organised by the local councillors. Check our website for more details.

Mon 4 June Lighting of the Jubilee Beacon Epsom Downs Racecourse

8.00 – 11.00pm An evening of entertainment and refreshments with a

beacon lit in honour of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee at 10.00pm.

Mon 4 June Jubilee Beacon event Priory Park, Reigate

An evening event with a beacon being lit at around 10.00pm. Entertainment supported by local traders will include music, food and a torch parade. More information will be available nearer the time. Visit our website for details Tue 5 Jun Teddy Bears Celebration Diamond Jubilee Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6AA 01306 876616 email events@denbiesvineyard.co.uk www.denbiesvineyard.co.uk

11.00am and 2.00pm. Cat’s Grin present ‘Once Upon a Time’. Princes and Princesses welcome. One child per bear. £7.00 per bear

Sat 16 June Diamond Jubilee Fair at Whitehall, Cheam Whitehall, 1 Malden Rd, Cheam, SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 www.friendsofwhitehall.co.uk

10.00 - 4.00pm. Celebrate Whitehall’s Birthday and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with stalls, games, sideshows and a Super Jubilee Raffle. Free admission and piece of cake for all tea room customers courtesy of the Friends of Whitehall.

Diamond Jubilee activities at Heritage Farm Nurseries 38 Telegraph Track, Little Woodcote Estate, Wallington SM6 0SH 020 8647 5790 www.heritagefarmnurseries.co.uk

With themed lunch boxes, themed specials such as a Royal Burger, activities for the children to feel like royalty plus much more, visit Heritage for some British fun.

Don’t forget the extra Bank Holiday.

Monday 4 June and Tuesday 5 June are both holidays this year, so there’s no excuse to get celebrating.

For more local and central London events over the official weekend (2 - 5 June), see our website, www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on or visit the official sites at www.royal.gov.uk, www.direct.gov.uk/diamondjubilee and www.thamesdiamondjubileepageant.org.

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline. ....and please remember to say you saw the event listed in Families London-Surrey Borders.

18

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May-June 2012

book reviews Teenagers explained

Days out in London for a Fiver!

There are shelves-full of parenting books written by psychologists, gurus, trainers and motivators.

Here’s a book by the real experts - teenagers themselves.

Local teenagers Megan and Louise polled friends, schoolmates and other teens to ask what really annoys teens about parents, and how parents can do it better. The result is a book based on personal experience and is full of insights into modern teenagers’ lives. They talk about sex, drugs, homework, games consoles, phones, parties and alcohol in terms of modern teen life.

Practical tips for parents offer advice on how to communicate better; how to entice your teen out of their room and what mistakes to avoid.

Teenagers Explained. ISBN-10: 1905410719 £9.99 online and in bookshops.

Tomy the Dreamer

Step Outside Guides are a series of illustrated books created specifically to help families explore in London.

Each book offers a day following a themed route, packed with interest.

This is a powerful, inspirational book, full of positive messages, love and thoughtful ideas. It is intended to be the first of a series tracking the development of young Tomy, who strives to be helpful, gentle and understanding of his little sister and other family members.

They contain bold, easy to follow maps with simple, clear and detailed explanations suitable for a nine-year-old. Braver parents will let their child take the lead.

It describes a healthy family life, acting as a model for many where the vision of a close family bond has broken down. There are references to God and Christianity, but the messages apply to all families, even if they come from different faiths – or none.

Good picnic spots and free toilets are highlighted, as well as accessibility details for buggies and wheelchairs.

The first two Guides, The London Treasure Trail and Down by the Thames, are now out. They cost £5 each and are available from selected museum and book shop and from www.stepoutsideguides.com.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

Live on stage in the West End! Wed 4 Jul - Sun 2 Sept At Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue Families has one family ticket for four to give away!

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

!

VE GE LISTA ON

WIN tickets to see

Tomy the Dreamer by Linda Unugboke £19.00 ISBN-10: 1467877174 from online shops or direct from Linda at www.tomythedreamer.com/

a musical play by DAVID WOOD based on the book by JUDITH KERR

To Enter online, simply answer the question at www.families-LSB.co.uk/competitions Closing date: 22 June 2012 For more information on the show (and a clue to the competition answer!) visit the website at : www.thetigerwhocametotealive.com Winning family ticket admits four. Tickets valid for performances at Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue Summer 2012 only.

Subject to availability. Illustrations copyright © Kerr-Kneale Product

LYRIC

THEATRE SHAFTESBURY AVENUE

WED 4 JULY - SUN 2 SEPT

Box Office: 0844 412 4661 www.thetigerwhocametotealive.com

PICCADILLY CIRCUS

New school opening in Purley - Friday evenings September 2012 Now B

o

Stagecoach Croydon Come and try for free The original largest and still the best part-time performing arts schools in the world.

For 4-16 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

Call: 0845 265 7083

okin Sum g! work mer Ho lid shop s- G ay Med reas ley a e n Stor d Toy y

Discovery Day on Friday 6th July 6pm at Riddlesdown Collegiate, Honister Heights Purley, CR8 1EX call Rachel to book your place.

Summer Holiday Workshop

Grease and Toy Story 23rd - 27th July at Croydon High School.

email: croydon@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/croydon

Discovery Session spaces limited, try for free-July 6th 6pm- BOOK NOW! 19

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May-June 2012

what’s on

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline...

Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

Diary dates for May Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline or we got it wrong ... and please remember to say you saw the event listed in Families London-Surrey Borders.

(Tuesday to Friday only) and there will be lots of friendly farm animals to meet and plenty of activities to take part in including animal handling, goat milking, pony rides, tractor rides, pig racing and gold panning.

Adults/ children aged 3 – 17: £9.20

VENUE contact DETAILS Bocketts Farm Park

Mon 4 – Fri 8 Jun 11.00am – 3.00pm daily

Young Street, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS

Denbies Wine Estate —Children’s Activities

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Bourne Hall Museum Children’s Club

Mon 4 - Fri 8 Jun 11.00 – 3.00pm daily

Denbies Wine Estate —Lego Exhibition.

Features fabulous Lego models with a Lego build on Thu 7 and Fri 8 June. To exhibit email events@denbiesvineyard. co.uk . Free Admission

Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 1UF

020 8394 1734 dbrooks@epsom-ewell.gov.uk

Denbies Hillside 01372 220644 surreyhills@nationaltrust.org.uk

Wed 6 Jun

Denbies Wine Estate London Road, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6AA

01306 876616 events@denbiesvineyard.co.uk www.denbiesvineyard.co.uk Gatton Park, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0TW

www.gattonpark.com Kenley Common, Kenley Lane, Kenley CR8 5ES

Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

020 8543 4888 boxoffice@polkatheatre.com www.polkatheatre.com Riddlesdown Common

Sat 5 May 12.00 – 5.00pm (Weather permitting)

Banstead Village May Fayre 2012 Procession starts from United Reformed Church, Woodmansterne Lane, Banstead at 11.30am and ends in The Orchard, in front of All Saints Church, with the crowning of the May Queens and the opening of the Fayre at approximately midday. Lots of entertainment including stalls, face painting, tombola, raffles, Pimms and Beer Tent. Raising funds for The Children’s Trust, Tadworth.

Sat May 5 - Mon May 7 10.00am – 5.00pm

The Morden Hall Country Show Morden Hall Park, Morden

Sat 19 and Sun 20 May

Bocketts Birthday Weekend.

Come and join in the celebrations as Bocketts turns 20 years old. With panning for gold and birds of prey flying demonstrations plus all of their usual fun farm activities, you can be sure of a great day out. What’s more, there’ll be a free party bag and balloon for each child.

Adult/Child 3+ years: £9.20 Sat 19 May Cheam Charter Fair.

A parade from St Dunstan’s Church to Park Road will open a market of stalls from local charities, businesses and societies. For more information visit

Riddlesdown Road, Purley, CR8 5AE

www.oakleighfairs.co.uk/morden

Sutton Ecology Centre

St Nicholas Way, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 1EA

Set in the grounds of Morden Hall (a National Trust property) a Family Country Show offering lots of entertainment as well as arts, crafts, gifts and food marquees. See the website for more details. Adults: £6.00; Children (5 – 16 years): £3.00; Family Ticket: £15.00 (2 + 2); children under 5: FREE

Wallington Library

Bird watching for beginners

Includes May Queen, craft stalls, raffle

Bring the family and join our resident bird surveyor on a gentle walk starting in the car park and ending at the Quarry.

Sutton Ecology Centre activity Bat Walk on Roundshaw Downs.

Female bats giving birth to their ‘pups’ need to put on lots of weight so that the young get enough milk to grow. With the aid of bat detectors, find out where the bats are and what they are doing.

Meet at Plough Lane notice board. Cost £3.00 per person or £10.00 per family.

Booking recommended.

The Old Rectory, Festival Walk, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 3NY

020 8770 5822 sec@sutton.gov.uk (unless otherwise stated) Sutton Central Library 020 8770 4700

Shotfield, Wallington, Surrey, SM6 0HY

020 8770 4900

West Wickham Common Croydon Road, West Wickham, BR2 7AL

Worcester Park Library Stone Place, Windsor Road, Worcester Park, KT4 8ES

020 8337 1609

Mon 7 May 9.00 – 11.00am

Riddlesdown Common.

Sat 12 May 1.00 - 2.30pm

Bourne Hall Museum Children’s Club Florence Nightingale. £4 per child Sat 12 May 2.00 – 4.00pm

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM Threadneedle Street, London EC2R 8AH 020 7601 5545 www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. Free.

To 8 Jun. Royal Connection – A Celebration Of The Diamond Jubilee The display will highlight the many connections between the Monarch and the Bank, notably drawing on the wealth of the Bank’s collections to trace the development of the royal portrait on banknotes.

Fri 18 May 5.30-9.00pm

Museums At Night A rare opportunity for an evening visit, including special presentations on banknotes. Bank staff will also be on hand to answer question about gold.

20

Booking by 17 May is essential. Meeting arrangements will be given on booking.

Adult: £8.00; Child: £4.00. For more information and to book contact the Surrey Hills Estate Office.

Cheeky Monkeys Tea Party

Christ Church, 863 Brighton Road, Purley CR8 2BN.

A fun fete for all the family with craft stalls, soft play area and crafts activity for children, tea and lots of cake. Entry by donation in aid of NCT charity, £1 suggested per adult. For more details contact Anya at newsletter@nctcroydon. co.uk.

Sat 12 May 8.15 - 10.30pm

Sutton Ecology Centre Activity Bat Walk at Whitehall, Cheam With the aid of bat detectors, explore the world of these fascinating nocturnal creatures. Meet at Whitehall Museum.

Cost £3.00 per person or £10.00 for families. Booking is essential. Contact Whitehall Museum on 020 86431236 or whitehallcheam@btconnect.com for further details and to book.

Fri 18 May 8.30 – 10.00pm

Denbies Hillside—Search for bats A walk around Denbies Hillside, using bat detectors to try and identify the different species of bats. Please bring a torch.

www.cheamcharterfair.org.uk

Sat 19 May 11.00 – 3.00pm.

Martin Way Methodist Church— May Fair

Buckleigh Avenue (junction with Martin Way), London SW20 9JZ

www.martinway.org.uk

Sat 19 May 8.45 - 10.30pm

Sun 27 May 1.30 - 3pm.

Family Tree Walk –West Wickham Common.

Bring the kids for a short ramble around the Common to learn about the different types of tree found here by looking at the shape of the leaves and the colour of the bark. Meet Luke at the notice board opposite the Assembly Rooms on Gates Green Road.

HALF TERM ACTIVITIES Sat 2 – Sun 10 Jun

Spring Spectacular at Bocketts Farm Bocketts Farm Park, Leatherhead

There’s a lot to enjoy with the Spring Spectacular programme. At ‘Meet the Tractor’ you can sit inside the cab or visit the ‘Pony Parlour’ to meet and groom the adorable ponies in sessions held throughout the day. Birds of prey displays will take place twice daily

The Library@The Life Centre Beanstalk Super Seedlings.

020 8644 9696 Planting session with Ecolocal. 3 – 6 years, 50p each including refreshments.

Contact library for more details.

Wed 6 Jun 11.00am and 2.00pm.

Denbies Wine Estate —Tropical Rainforest Road Show.

See, handle and learn about creatures from all over the globe. £6.50 per child.

Thu 7 Jun 10.00am- 2.00pm.

Denbies Wine Estate —Birds of Prey.

With a spectacular aerial display at noon. Free admission Thu 7 Jun 11.00 - 11.30am.

Wallington Library —Crown Craft with Stories.

Craft for children. 2 – 5 years

Fri 8 Jun 11.00am -3.00pm.

Denbies Wine Estate - Go Potty.

Decorate and plant your own pot for summer. £2.50 per pot Sat 9 Jun 1.00 - 2.30pm

Bourne Hall Museum Children’s Club - The History of Toys. £4.00 per child Sat 9 Jun 10.00 – 12.00pm.

NCT Nearly New Sale

All Saint’s Church, Onslow Gardens, Sanderstead CR2 9AB

Items for sale include toys, baby equipment, DVDs, books, maternity, baby and children’s clothes up to age 11 years, pushchairs, buggies, bedding, shoes etc. Admission by donation to NCT charity (£1.00 suggested). Further details contact Carly at nearlynewsellers@nctcroydon.co.uk Sat 9 and Sun 10 Jun 10.00am

Sutton Ecology Centre Activity Meet the Species BioBlitz Weekend.

One of their biggest events this year.

Meet Sutton’s wildlife up close in the Ecology Centre grounds with drop-in pond-dipping, bird walks, moth trapping, mini-beast hunts, dance performances, and more as part of the national campaign to record as many species as possible in 24 hours.

Free activities suitable for all ages. projectdirt.com/group/biodiversitygardens Sun 10 Jun

Carshalton Community Allotment —Beanstalk: Super Seedlings.

Colston Avenue, Carshalton, Surrey SM5 2PW

Planting session with Ecolocal

10 Jun 12.00 – 4.00pm

NCT Sutton and Epsom Teddy Bear’s Picnic in Nonsuch Park.

See Jubilee feature (p 18) for details.

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

what’s on

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline...

Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk Sun 17 June 12.00pm onwards

PURLEY FESTIVAL 2012

Riddlesdown Family Fun Day. 020 8660 4625 www.riddlesdownresidents.org.uk .

The Riddlesdown Residents Associations’s 75th Anniversary Fun Day. Everybody welcome – with or without family – to this free event. In case of bad weather on the day ring to check whether the event is going ahead.

25 JUN - 1 JUL

This week long event will encompass entertainment, workshops and fun for the entire family all hosted within various community venues and will provide the community of Purley and surrounding areas with their own mini Edinburgh and Glastonbury festivals, hailing the best of what Purley has to offer.

The finale weekend will be a fun filled extravaganza situated at the heart of Purley, on Brighton Road’s Rotary Fields.

The promoters say that this year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than before.

Sat 23 Jun 11.00

Sutton Ecology Centre Activity —Celebrating Chalk Grasslands.

Meet at Oaks Park café for a look at some of Sutton’s chalk grassland species. £3.00 per person or £10.00 per family.

Booking recommended.

Sunday 24 June 11.00 – 4.00pm

www.purleyfestival.com/ Fri 15 Jun 1.30 - 3pm

Kenley Common buggy walk.

Get out, get some fresh air, and enjoy your local patch of countryside. Join Lizzie for a walk around the airfield and learn a bit more about Kenley Common.

Meet at the RAF Memorial Tribute.

Sat 16 Jun

Cuddington Funday, Shadbolt Park, Worcester Park.

A mix of stalls and sideshows, along with arena events, making this a great fun afternoon for all the community.

Sat 16 Jun 12.00 – 5.00pm

St Helier Festival.

A day of free activities with circus shows and workshops in the Big Top, local bands and dancers and an Army’s assault course.

Refreshments include an all day BBQ and

Gourmet Bistro. Bring your family, a blanket and make a day of it. More information at www.sftra.org Sat 16 Jun 10.30am-12.30pm

Worcester Park Library —Father’s Day Craft.

Drop-in card making for children.

Sun 17 Jun 11.00 – 4.00pm

Old Lodge Farm - Open Sunday

Woodmansterne Lane, Little Woodcote SM5 4AZ.

01737 733933 (in advance), 07968 832 523 (on the day) www.farmsunday.org

Old Surrey Downs/Downlands Projects event. Access is via Woodmansterne Lane at the Telegraph Track junction. Lots for all the family to see and do, including guided tours in a trailer pulled by LandRover. Free.

Polka Theatre – Polka Sports Day! A day of free games and fun activities for all the family. A sports day with a theatrical, playful twist – a chance to race, play, perform and make things. Suitable for all ages.

OPEN GARDEN SQUARES WEEKEND, 9 and 10 JUNE Organised by the London Parks and Gardens Trust, the weekend is a celebration of London’s open spaces.

This year, for the first time, the event will be in association with the National Trust.

One weekend ticket provides access to numerous gardens and squares in London not usually open to the public. Other parks and gardens put on special events, such as jazz bands,.

Entrance is free for children under the age of 12 (when accompanied by an adult) and, with its increasingly wide appeal, there is much in the event for the younger visitor to explore.

Tickets bought in advance cost just £9 rising to £12 during the weekend. www.opensquares.org/en/tickets.html

Thu 28 Jun 7.00 - 9.00pm.

Sutton Ecology Centre Activity —Wildlife Cycle Ride.

Meet at the bus stand at the corner of Brighton Road / Downs Road with your bikes for a gentle cycle around some of Sutton’s nature reserves. FREE activity suitable for everyone. Booking not required.

Sun 1 Jul 12.00 – 5.00pm.

Gatton Country Fair Gatton Park, Reigate

A great day out for all the family. Country crafts and demonstrations, children’s activities, gardens and grounds open.

Adults: £4.50; Children: FREE

School Summer Fairs Sun 27 May 12.00 – 3.00pm

Aragon Primary School

Aragon Road, Morden, Surrey SM45QN Sat 16 Jun 12.00 – 3.00pm

Woodmansterne Primary School Carshalton Road, Woodmansterne, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3HU Sat 7 Jul 2012 12.00 – 3.00pm

Hillcross Primary School Summer and Craft Fair

Ashridge Way, Morden Surrey SM4 4EE

www.hillcross.merton.sch.uk 020 8542 6936

http://www.heritagefarmnurseries.co.uk 21

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

what’s on

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline...

Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

HOLIDAY CAMPS / CLASSES /ACTIVITIES FOR PRE-SCHOOLERS

TUTORING

Everyone Active

Southern Tutors,

www.everyoneactive.com Active Ants

01372 721 119 / 07986 564 651 info@southerntutors.co.uk www.southerntutors.co.uk

Sutton Arena Leisure Centre, Middleton Road, Carshalton, SM5 1SL 020 8770 4088

Held at Rosebery School, Epsom (contact tutor, not school for details)

Mon, Wed and Fri. See website for times.

A chance to learn and play with soft toys, bouncy castle and ride on toys. Suitable for 0 – 4 years Sutton Arena Leisure Centre, 020 8770 4088

www.everyoneactive.com Playworld

Mon – Sun at various times, contact centre or visit website Fantasy play area which includes Ball Pond, slides, ropes and a tunnel.

Constructed over 2 levels it offers the ultimate in adventure, fun and excitement.

Suitable for ages 2 – 10.

Theatrebugs Summer Holiday Workshop.

01483 882244 / 07971 004134 hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk The Animal Games

Five fun-filled days of acting, singing, dancing, dressing up, arts and crafts then we hit the stage. Squeaker the Mouse wants to enter the Running Wheel Competition but William Wolf has other ideas. He wants Squeaker to just give up.

Luckily Rover the Dog and Princess Skip are standing in the wings to cheer Squeaker on. For boys and girls aged 3.5 – 8. At venues in Kingswood, Epsom/ Ewell and Oxshott.

For workshop dates and discounts available, see advert on page 9.

© TheatreBugs

Everyone Active

Intensive 11 Plus courses Half term dates: 6 – 8 June Summer holiday dates: 23 – 27 July ; 13 – 17 Aug; 20 – 24 Aug. Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, Maths and English classes for 9 – 10 yr olds.

11+ Holiday Learning Club

MULTI -ACTIVITY Everyone Active Sutton Arena Leisure Centre, Middleton Road, Carshalton, SM5 1SL

0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk

Fit for Sports

During School holidays, Extended Day 8.30 am – 5.30pm or Standard Day 9.30am – 4.30am Everyone Active has teamed up with Fit For Sport, to offer Healthy Lifestyle Activity Camps providing a range of activities, sports, arts and crafts every day. Aimed at 5 – 12 years.

Jancett Playsafe Holiday Clubs 020 8669 1725 www.jancettplaysafe.co.uk Multi activity holiday clubs held in schools in Carshalton, Worcester Park, Wallington and Croydon.

Visit the website for venues, dates, times and prices and to register online.

MUSEUMS AT NIGHT 18-20 MAY

www.culture24.org.uk/museumatnight

An exciting line up of nocturnal activities in museums and galleries throughout the city. An extended programme of events will be taking place at both large, national institutions and smaller, more specialists venues. Keep an eye out for evenings featuring art, live music and performances as some of London’s most famous institutions open their doors to attract the very best sort of culture vultures.

Participants include: The Petrie Museum, Apsley House, The National Portrait Gallery, The Bank of England, The National Army Museum and the Royal Observatory in Greenwich.

Held at Laleham Lea Prep School, 29 Peaks Hill, Purley CR8 3JJ (contact tutor, not school for details)

SPORTS Everyone Active Sutton Arena Leisure Centre, Middleton Road, Carshalton, SM5 1SL

020 8770 4088 www.everyoneactive.com Active Fitness Mon – Fri 2.00pm – 5.00pm Get fit in the gym and take up our monthly challenges. Suitable for ages 11 – 15 years.

PERFORMING ARTS Stagecoach Theatre Arts Croydon ‘Show in a Week’ Summer Camp At Croydon High School, Old Farleigh Rd, Croydon, CR2 8YB

0845 265 7083 / 07986 781380 email croydon@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/croydon 23 - 27-July 9.30-12.30 Toy Story Adventures.

Suitable for 4 – 6 years 10.00-16.00 Grease Medley 6 – 18 years Participants develop confidence working towards a full-scale professional production within a creative, encouraging atmosphere. There are no hidden costs, no experience necessary and family and friends are invited to come and watch at the end of the week. Call Principal Rachel for more information.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Epsom Summer Workshops ‘Fame School’ and ‘We’re finding Nemo’ Blenheim High School, Longmead Road, Epsom

Bocketts Farm Park 2nd -10th June

SPRING SPECTACULAR FANTASTIC FAMILY FUN THIS SPRING! › Meet the Tractor › Pony Parlour › Gold Panning › Birds of Prey

20

CELEB RATE

YEARS OF

BOCKE T FARM TS

Join our Birthday weekend 19th & 20th May. Receive a free party bag and balloon for each child!

See website for details

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

✃

SPECIAL

OFFER 22

£1 off full price farm entry per person

(max 5 people) valid any day in May 2012 excluding May 7th. Only with this voucher.

0800 242 5525 www.holidaylearningclub.com 30 July - Fri 17 Aug. 9.00 - 3.30pm weekdays only.

A fun holiday study club for children taking their 11+ exams this year. Daily tuition by 11+ tutors, with tests, vocabulary sessions and fun activities to stimulate the brain. Visit the website for more details. Suitable for year 5 pupils. £200 per week.

01932 784 001 email epsom@stagecoach.co.uk

www.stagecoach.co.uk/epsom 23 - 27 July Ages 4 – 6 and 7 – 18. Non stagecoach students welcome. Large scale performance with lighting, costume and sound on the last day. No extra costs for costumes or tickets.

Theatrebugs Summer Holiday Workshop 01483 882244 / 07971 004134 hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk The Animal Games

See pre-school section for details Top Hat Screen and Stage School

Stanley Park High, Damson Way, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 4NS

01737 831184 www.tophatstageschool.co.uk Bugsy Malone - Put on a Show in a Week Top Hatters (6 – 17 years): Tue 14 Aug - Sat 18 Aug 10.00-3.00pm - £150 Tiny Toppers (4 – 5 years): Tue 14 Aug - Fri 17 Aug 10.00-1.00pm,: £100 All age groups: Sat 18 Aug 10.00 - 7.30 with show at 6.00pm.

Supercamps courseS Supercamps: 01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk See their website for details of costs.

Most camps run between 9.00 – 5.00pm with extended hours (8.00 - 6.00pm) available at an additional cost.

Multi-Activity Camps Royal Russell School: 9 Jul – 24 Aug Sutton High School: 9 Jul – 24 Aug Whitgift Sch., Croydon: 23 Jul – 24 Aug Wimbledon High Sch: 9 Jul – 24 Aug Action packed camps with over 40 activities on offer (sports, arts and crafts). You can book individual days or full weeks. For children aged 4 – 14.

Raw Adventure Camps Royal Russell School: 23 Jul – 10 Aug Five day courses (Mon - Fri) with activities including shelter building, fire making, bread making and navigation, For

children aged 8 – 14.

A Passion For… Workshops: Mon – Fri workshops led by specialist leaders. For children aged 6 – 16.

A Passion For…Creativity Royal Russell School: 30 Jul – 3 Aug Sutton High School, Sutton: 23 -27 Jul A Passion For…Dance Sutton High School, : 16 – 20 Jul Whitgift Sch: 30 Jul – 3 Aug; 13 – 17 Aug A Passion For…Invention Royal Russell School: 20 – 24 Aug Sutton High School: 13 – 17 Aug A Passion For… Detective; A Passion For… Spy; A Passion For… Dance and Junior Sports Leadership Awards Whitgift School, South Croydon: Various dates between 23 Jul – 17 Aug

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

what’s on

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline...

Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@Families-LSB.co.uk

kaleidoscope of miniature shoes and a comic mouse. Suitable for 4 – 7 years.

For a regularly updated list of local family events visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on

Wed 6 – Sat 9 Jun

Mr & Mrs Sommerflügel Join Mr & Mrs Sommerflügel and their strange menagerie of animals all up to their tricks as they chase each other trying to win, catch or eat what they most desire. A gentle poetic circus of visual antics accompanied by live music, objects shadows and trickery. Suitable for 2 – 5 years

CHARLES CRYER STUDIO THEATRE

39 High Street, Carshalton, SM5 3BB 020 8770 6990

www.suttontheatres.co.uk Tue 22 - Sat 26 May Eves 7.30pm; Sat Mat 2.30pm

Annie Based on the comic strip ‘Little Orphan Annie’ this musical will bring both a smile to your face and a tear to your eye.

Adults: £14.00; concessions: £11.50

Fri 15 and Sat 16 Jun

Sat 23 June 4.00pm

It’s The Ritz Diamond Jubilee A show which is a celebration of dance, music and song; young and old, singing and dancing their way through the decades of the Queen’s reign. Come and Celebrate with us. Adults: £3.50; concessions: £3.00

THE COLOUR HOUSE CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Merton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way, SW19 2RD

020 8542 5511

www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Sun 21 Apr – 24 Jun

Sat and Sun 2.00pm and 4.00pm. Adult: £8.00, Child: £7.00 Legendary Histories A festival of highly entertaining and interactive family theatre, featuring shows straight from the pages of history including ‘The Tudors’, ‘Ancient Greeks’, ‘Victorians’, ‘Egyptians’, ‘Invaders’ and from the pages of the Beano, Derek the Sheep in ‘The Quest for the Googly Glasses’. Suitable for all 4+ years. Online booking available at the website.

EPSOM PLAYHOUSE

Ashley Avenue, Epsom, KT18 5AL

01372 742555/742227

www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk Fri 11 May 7.30pm

Fireman Sam Live– Pontypandy Rocks!

Join Fireman Sam and all his friends as Pontypandy hosts its first ever music festival. £12.00 / £10.00 Sun 27 May 3.00pm

Michael Jackson Tribute Amir Sharma’s portrayal of Michael Jackson in his prime has to be the most vocally and visually accurate tribute to the King of Pop to have ever toured UK theatres. £19.50 Under 16s £15.00 Wed 27 Jun 2.30pm

A Right Royal Knees Up Celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with four weddings and a coronation.

Starring Leah Bell. £11.50

FAIRFIELD HALLS

Park Lane, Croydon CR9 1DG

020 8688 9291 boxoffice@fairfield. co.uk

www.fairfield.co.uk Sun 6 May 3.00pm

LDN Wrestling Adults: £12.00; children: £10; family ticket: £40.00 Fri 1 Jun 7.30pm

American Superslam Wrestling Adults: £15.00; children: £10.00; family ticket: £45.00 (no booking fee) 23

Mon 4 Jun 1.30pm, Tue 5 Jun 10.30am and 1.30pm

The Tiger Who Came To Tea 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.

Following on from the highly successful 2011 tour, the loveable tea-guzzling tiger appears in this delightful family show.

Packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos, David Wood’s stunning stage adaptation of Judith Kerr’s picture book is fun for youngsters everywhere, and their grownups. Ages 3+.£10.00 (£1.50 booking fee per ticket).

Also showing 25-27 June at the Churchill Theatre, Bromley 0844 871 7620, 4 July - 2 Sep at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftsbury Avenue, London 0844 412 4661,

VISITING ADVENTURES Fri 18 and Sat 19 May

Videk’s Shirt Come with Videk and his animal friends and learn how the sheep’s wool is made into a new warm shirt. With puppetry, songs, live music and lots of joining in.

Suitable for 2 – 5 years. Telephone bookings only.

Fri 25 and Sat 26 May

The Little Red Hen Lend a hand in making a delicious loaf.

An intimate interactive storytelling piece involving puppetry, song, live music and play. Suitable for 2 – 5 years. Telephone bookings only.

Fiddlesticks Tap your feet and listen to the beat in this lively blend of clowning, rod and shadow puppets, percussion and live music. A world of musical fantasy with imaginative characters and wonderful puppets created out of musical instruments. Suitable for 4 - 7 years Tickets for Visiting Adventures are £9.00 and concessions £7.00. Check the website for performance times.

SECOMBE THEATRE

42 Cheam Road, Sutton, SM1 2SS 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk Sat 26 May 3.00pm and 7.00pm

Written In the Stars A variety spectacular which showcases talented young singers, dancers and actors from the Sutton and Streatham area. Elite School of Dance and Drama and Momentum Dance Company will be joining forces to amaze and entertain. £8.00.

Fri 1 and Sat 2 Jun.

The Elves and the Shoemaker A much-loved, re-heeled tale featuring a beautifully crafted set and puppets, a

For a regularly updated list of local family events visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on

www.thetigerwhocametotealive.com

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE

The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1QG

0844 871 7646 (bookings)

www.ambassadortickets.com/wimbledon Thu 10 –Sat 19 May.

Starlight Express Two hours of speed, spectacle, energy and turbo charged excitement, combined with an electrifying sound track, dazzling sets and costumes and extraordinary roller-choreography. A memorable musical hit. £19.50/£39.50.

Thu 24-Sat 26 May.

Little Princess Live On Stage Join in the celebration with Little Princess in the theatrical premiere of the hit children’s book and favourite TV character. £9.00/£12.00, family £36. Suitable for 2 years+.

POLKA THEATRE

240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com 1 – 30 Jun

Run! A Sports Day Musical This funny, heart-warming musical follows four students and their teacher, Mr Budge, in a story of falling over, getting up and carrying on. With original music and dance, Polka’s feelgood musical brings an extra special sports day to life this summer. Suitable for ages 7 – 11. £8 – £12 After-show talk: Fri 8 Jun 2.30pm; BSL interpreted perf.

Sat 16 Jun at 2.00pm; Autism Friendly performance Sat 23 Jun at 5.30pm.

School’s out!

Half term fun 6 – 8 June 10:00am – 4:30pm

Crowning Glory Find examples of crowns in our exhibition to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and in the pictures of Kings and Queens in the Museum.

Create your own crown to take home. Enter our competition quiz about monarchs and the Bank with prizes to be won.

Admission free 10am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Closed weekends and public holidays. Entrance in Bartholomew Lane, London EC2R 8AH. Tel: 020 7601 5545 www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

May-June 2012

classifieds Tuition

Business Services

Classes

COMPUTER LESSONS

11+ Mock Tests www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Sat 26th May; Sun 27th May Sat 30th June; Sun 1st July Location: 11+ Secondary School, Wallington SM6 Fee: £13 per subject; includes detailed feedback BOOK NOW! NOW BOOK

www.11plusmocktests.com Email: info@11plusmocktests.com

Southern Tutors 11+ tuition; GCSE; ‘A’ level 11+ courses; 1:1 tuition 01372 721119 07986 564 651 info@southerntutors.co.uk www.southerntutors.co.uk English and verbal reasoning tutor Cherry Mattey, 0208 669 9794 www.tuitionsutton.com Elevensis 11+ Prep Club Testing your child’s speed/ability Purley-(Sun:12-2pm/£10ph) Starts May 2012 Book Now – 07961 344 709

Health www.Mobile-Aromatherapy.co.uk

www.11plustuition.co.uk

Relaxing, Therapeutic Massage At Home While Children At School Or After Their Bedtime

07711 724129 (ITEC Qual - 20+3:53 Years’)PM 9947_CROYDON_FAMILIES LSB_FINAL:CROYDON 4/12/12

Friendly & Cost Effective Services Including Self Assessments, Sole Trader & Limited Accounts email: info@prime-numbers.biz or call: 07961455970

Fun & educational weekly lessons for 2-5 yr olds - at a nursery near you!

Phone: 020 8394 9922 www.clickit-kids.co.uk

Classes for mums Le Club Français after-school French Club Classes in Kenley/Croydon. First class Free 07711 993 129 jlslparsons@yahoo.com

www.legsbumsandmums.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/

Art classes for children in Sth Croydon by professional artist (CRB checked) Children learn drawing and painting through creativity and experimentation using different art materials.

Sat., Sun. and half term bookings. £10 for 1hour 15 mins. All art materials incl.

Call Zainab on 0795 6455853

www.Families-LSB.co.uk/What-s-On For Father’s Day ideas For Diamond Jubilee events and What’s on information

For holiday camps and workshops And much more, visit... www.Families-LSB.co.uk/What-s-On

Page 9950_HOBBLEDOWN-_FAMILIES 1 LSB/FINAL:1/4 page

4/12/12

FAMLSBFREEPASS

The Ultimate Indoor Adventure Park

Open July 2012

Book a party and

get a FREE

months' pass* *Pass valid for birthday child and two adults for 1 month from date of party.

Party must be booked by August 31st, 2012.

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

a mysterical FAR M PAR K adventure

A jumble of paths to explore, Leading this way and that, Or even that way and this.

Most certainly an adventure not to be missed!

A place full of wonder, excitement and play.

Where our friends the Hobblers spend their days, Around the fields and the barns where animals roam, Content as always in their Hobbledown homes.

Hip Hip Hooray!! "like" us on facebook for access to exclusive offers and competitions.

www.facebook.com/kidspacecroydon

for more information call 020 8686 0040 www.kidspaceadventures.com Unit 3, The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon, Surrey CR0 4RQ

"Like" us on facebook to be part of exclusive updates, competitions and offers – www.facebook.com/hobbledown

Th www.hobbledown.com Hobb e le thehobblers@hobbledown.com have rs facebook.com/hobbledownuk arri twitter.com ved Ope n July 2012

5:12 PM

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