Families NW London Mar/Apr 23 PRINT issue

Top value family holiday destinations

By Ashley Lutz

Travelling abroad as a family is a wonderful experience for all. It can seem quite a significant financial outlay but with careful planning you can still find destinations that offer excellent value for money and magical memories for years to come. Here are my 2023 hot spots for your next family holiday and you can find out more at www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/ashley.lutz

Turkey

Make the most of the long, warm Turkish summers and the pound’s strength against the lira. Choose from many familyfriendly resorts and eat out at a reasonable cost as a threecourse meal can come in at just £12 a head in the popular beach resort of Marmaris, while a round of drinks should cost you less than UK prices, particularly if you stick with local beer and wine.

Montenegro

Montenegro offers a great alternative to its popular neighbouring country Croatia, with cheaper prices and quieter beaches. The local food is delicious and accommodation can cater to a variety of family budgets. Boasting golden beaches, whitewashed villages and lush green forests, it’s one of the most picturesque spots in the Balkans.

Portugal

While sterling’s value against the euro has plummeted since Brexit, Portugal is one Eurozone destination where your cash can work harder. In the Algarve, dinner for two will come to around £20, half the price of eating out on the island of Madeira. But despite the bigger food bills, Madeira and the Azores are still relatively inexpensive compared with some Greek equivalents.

Mauritius

Looking further afield, Mauritius offers great value, with prices almost half those of the neighbouring Seychelles. With white sands, crystalclear waters and adrenalinfilled activities, Mauritius has something for children and adults of all ages. If you’re after a family holiday with a difference, this should be on your list.

CONTACT US:

EDITOR:

Heather Waddington

T: 01923 237 004

E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

42 Norbury Ave, WD24 4PJ

LISTINGS AND FEATURES EDITOR:

Anna Blackshaw

E: Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

WWW.FAMILIESNWLONDON.CO.UK

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Where is Families

Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west. You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know.

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Placing the wellbeing of the child at the heart of all we do, HHS encourages independence, individuality and creativity, within the framework of a robust, quality education. Our pupils quickly develop a love of learning coupled with an outstanding work ethic that enables them to aspire and achieve across the curriculum in a caring community which fast becomes, and remains, a family.

Stretching your child’s imagination

By Jemma Z Smith

Imagination is the ability to create mental images, thoughts or ideas. It helps us to generate new ideas, to think creatively and to consider possibilities that may not be rooted in current reality. Imagination can be a powerful tool for problem-solving and innovation.

Imagination is often associated with childhood and is an important aspect of child development. Children use their imaginations to create stories, games and other forms of play in which they explore their environment and learn about the world.

However, imagination isn’t only important in childhood. There are many jobs that rely on imagination and creative thinking. For example, imagination is used by the following professionals in the following ways:

Painters, sculptors, photographers - to create works of art;

Novelists, screenwriters and other writers - to create stories and characters;

Actors - to portray characters and bring stories to life;

Architects - to design buildings and other structures; Graphic designers - to create visual designs for websites, advertisements and other media;

Musicians - to compose music and create new sounds; Game designers - to create interactive games and virtual worlds;

Marketers - to come up with creative marketing campaigns and advertisements;

Teachers - to create engaging lesson plans and activities for their students;

Engineers - to design and build new products and systems.

Imagination takes many forms, including visual imagination to create mental images or pictures, verbal imagination in stories or ideas using words and musical imagination creating melodies and harmonies. It can also involve the use of all five senses, such as when someone imagines the taste, smell, or texture of a food they have never experienced.

By providing opportunities for children to use their imagination and encouraging them to be creative, parents can develop their creative thinking skills.

All imaginative play starts with an understanding of the world around us, so to help a child to use their imagination we must first introduce them to different experiences, from sensory experiences such as discovering new foods or smells, to listening to different accents and instruments. This exposure to the world allows your child to have a large mental ‘dressing up box’ to use when creating characters and scenarios for their imaginative play.

Jemma Zoe Smith is Director of The Education Hotel (www.educationhotel.co.uk).

Activities to develop imagination

Encourage open-ended play. Playing with certain toys allows for open-ended exploration and creativity. Blocks, dolls and dressing-up clothes can all be used in a variety of ways, led by a child’s imagination.

Encourage storytelling. Parents can encourage children to create their own stories and characters, either through verbal storytelling, drawing or writing.

Encourage experimentation. Children use their imagination and creativity when trying new things and experimenting with different materials. For example, parents can provide children with art supplies, such as paint, clay or markers and encourage them to create their own projects.

Read together. Reading with children stretches their imagination and exposes them to new ideas and concepts. Encourage them to ask questions and make predictions while reading, to help stimulate their imagination.

Encourage role play. Role play is a fun way to use imagination, for instance, pretending to be a doctor with dolls and soft toys or pretending to be a chef while cooking dinner.

ACTIVITY CENTRES

BigShots Golf (HA1)

BigShots Golf is transforming the game of golf to make it accessible and fun for everyone. They have developed cutting edge ball tracking technology and created colorful, virtual games so that even a total beginner can step up and swing on to have fun! www.bigshotsgolfuk.com

Lincolnsfields Playzone (WD23)

A soft play centre in Bushey for children up to the age of 11. Birthday party packages available. Open daily during school holidays, and Monday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday during term time. www.lincolnsfieldsplayzone.co.uk

Ninja Warrior Watford (WD25)

Our Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Park is a supervised activity and fitness venue inspired by ITV’s hit programme Ninja Warrior UK! A great place for supervised family activities and for keeping fit, we welcome you on your Ninja journey. No charge for spectators to come and watch your Ninjas from our Café area and treat yourself to our full range of hot and cold food plus a wide selection of drinks!

www.ninjawarrioruk.co.uk/watford

Harrow Woodcraft Folk

Join our Elfin group (6 to 9 years). Meeting in Central Harrow. Tuesday evenings (term time): 6:30-8pm. Email harrowwoodcraftfolk@yahoo.co.uk for more details. www.woodcraft.org.uk

Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime

Children’s Activities Limited (HA1)

Pick up from four local schools at the end of the school day, then take the children back to the club for a snack and the daily activity. Open Mon-Fri 3-6pm at The Cadet Centre, Harrow, HA1 2QA. Call 07575801623, email holidays@activetime.co.uk www.activetimedaynursery.co.uk

Willesden and Brent Chess Club (NW2)

Provides social chess for players of levels, set up Club competitions and tutor juniors. For the more competitive player they enter teams into local leagues and refer members to our county team. At Cricklewood Library, 152 Olive Road, NW2 6UY. Call Anthony on 07974 238357, email fulton790@aol.com www.willesdenchess.wordpress.com

DiscoG Coding Academy (HA3)

Run weekly term-time classes and holiday courses and workshops for students aged 6 to 18. Join in to learn Computer Science, Coding, Robotics, AI and Machine Learning. Contact Gerard & Kat on 07767300940, email: info@discogcodingacademy.com www.discogcodingacademy.com

Little Coders

Coding class for children aged 4 to 6 years. Develop critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication. www.littlecodersclub.co.uk

Blank Canvas Art Club

Online, fine art classes for kids and adults from 6-106 teaching skills & techniques whilst encouraging imagination and finding your own style whatever your experience. Weekday afterschool kids classes. Adults evening or daytime classes suitable for beginners or refreshers. Email Suzi blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com www.Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub

L Marsh Art Studio (HA7)

We celebrate the making of art by tapping in to the creativity, interest and enthusiasm of our students and providing the space, time and guidance for it to happen. Classes are taught from a purpose-built art studio, either in small groups or 1-2-1 private tuition. Skills and techniques are taught according to each student’s individual readiness. 90-minute after-school art classes

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday. Term-in-a-Week Painting Courses during school holidays. Private classes by arrangement. All ages from 7 y/o and upwards. All levels of experience. www.facebook.com/art1stanmore

EDUCATION SUPPORT

Brain Train Tuition Centre (HA2)

English and Maths Tuition for Ages 5 to 16 years. Brain Train Tuition will help to improve your child’s academic and social skills, as well as building their confidence and a belief in their ability to succeed. call 0208 426 84250. Email: braintraintuition@gmail.com

Free Readers (various)

At Free Readers, your child’s academic success is their priority. They help children of year groups and individual needs, from ages 3 to 11. They offer enrichment or extra help in Reading, Maths and English, homework and test preparation. Individual teaching and attention in small groups is the preferred way to help children. They encourage them how to learn, enabling them to reach their full potential. www.freereaders.co.uk

Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5)

Hatch End 11+ Tuition (HA5)

Hatch End 11+ Tuition is an established and successful tutoring centre offering a warm and friendly environment where children are encouraged and motivated to achieve their maximum potential whatever their ability. Their aim is to build children’s confidence and help achieve high standards of work in an engaging and challenging environment 020 8421 3066.

www.hatchend11plus.co.uk

Little Big Leaders (HA8 & WD23)

Maths/English or Phonics & Writing for 3.5 to 11 yearolds at our Saturday School, Summer and Winter School. Tutors support and challenge pupils to improve their learning and have a track record in enabling pupils to demonstrate progress in their mainstream setting and/ or in 5+, 7+ and 11+ examinations. Childcare vouchers accepted. Free trial lessons. Call 020 3637 6266.

www.littlebigleaders.com

The Learning Wheel (Northwood Hills)

Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11. www.thelearningwheel.co.uk

Raviv Practice London (UB5)

Catch up reading course. Improve reading age by 1 year in 3 months of home-based work. The computer interventions is similar to having a tutor in your home with daily monitoring and feedback. Call 07766 837 6168 info@ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist). www.ravpracticelondon.co.uk

DANCE

Street Dance Academy (various)

Teach children aged 5-18 yrs every weekend during school term time, with clubs in and around London, Hertfordshire and Surrey. Street Dance Academy also teach Adult Street Dance and Zumba Classes in Twickenham every Wednesday. Call 0800 0236 236. www.streetdanceacademy.co.uk

Elina Patrou Academy of Dance (HA7)

Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations. Online private ballet lessons available. call 07555 861561 or email elinapatrouacademyofdance@gmail.com www.elinapatrouacademyofdance.com

New Strathspey School of Dancing

Code Ninjas

Kids learn to code in a fun, safe, and inspiring learning environment, with a game-based curriculum that they love. Parents love it too, because their kids make real progress and gain valuable skills while having a great time. Everyone wins at Code Ninjas! www.codeninjas.co.uk

Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration. Call Usha Patel 07766 837 616 or email ushapatel.raviv@gmail.com www.integratedbrain.co.uk

Highland Dancing for fitness and fun. Children’s Saturday morning highland dancing class for 5-11 year olds, starting September 2022 at Knutsford School Hall, Watford. Full details of all classes is available on the website. Contact Sandy at shunt@moose.co.uk www.rscdsherts.org/new-strathspey

Divine Yoga (Borehamwood and Kenton)

In each of our classes yoga is brought to life using creative games and mindful movement ending in a relaxing mindful activity. Classes are for children 4-10 years, teens, families, schools and nurseries. Why not trial a FREE class? To book visit www.divineyoga.com/booknow

FREE

MAGAZINES

For your school, nursery, cafe, shop or club. just ask us!

editor@familiesNWLondon.co.uk or 01923 237 004

AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS

HEALTH & WELLBEING LANGUAGES & DEVELOPMENT

Etiquette and Emotions

Etiquette and Emotions offer live, interactive, and enjoyable workshops for children and teens aged 7-15 to elevate their emotional intelligence and social etiquette. Workshops are run by a certified children’s coach and include videos, discussions, and a quiz. Get 10% off! Use discount code: ee10off at checkout! www.etiquetteandemotions.com

Kids Yoga with Yana (Watford) www.facebook.com/kidsyogawithyana

Yana is a qualified Kids Yoga teacher with a passion for empowering children to be the best version of themselves through yoga and mindfulness practice.

MD Massage Therapies

Massage has many health benefits - it helps to reduce pain, anxiety and fatigue, repetitive injuries, increases range of motion, relieves stress and much more! Gift vouchers available. Intro 20% off first treatment. Email info@mdmassagetherapies.co.uk, call 07950 84674. www.mdmassagetherapies.co.uk

Baby Lab (WC1E)

Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College. Travel expenses refunded. www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Phonics with Robot Reg (various)

Provide fun, high energy classes which teach early phonics skills to children 1 to 4 years. Fun, varied and educational classes. https://robotreg.co.uk

Gymboree Play & Music Watford

Sensory classes for babies, art and music classes, as well as Play & Learn classes for little ones who are on the move. They also offer a range of fabulously fun birthday parties. Find them upstairs in the Atria shopping centre at the top of the Queens Car Park. https://gymbo.co.uk/locations/watford

Monkey Music (Various)

Award-winning Monkey Music, trusted by parents since 1992, introduces babies and young children aged 3 months to 4 years to music with a unique four-stage curriculum tailored to each age group. Classes run 6 days a week, in Uxbridge, Eastcote, Northwood, Ickenham, Harrow, Stanmore and Watford. Call 020 8427 6595. www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Sing and Sign (Various)

Achieve Arts

(HA5/NW7/NW11)

Achieve Arts is a performance centre teaching drama, speech and singing to children and young adults. Young performers work towards their LAMDA examinations in acting, verse and prose, public speaking and musical theatre whilst learning some key life skills. The exceptional teaching team have a wealth of experience and are invested in the students to Achieve their best. call 020 8087 2461. www.achievearts.co.uk

PQA (Pauline Quirk Academy) (various)

PQA provides outstanding performing arts tuition for 4 to 18 years. Each week students rotate through specialist sessions in Musical Theatre, Comedy and Drama and Film and TV taught by leading industry professionals. PQA is enrolling for September. Book a free taster session at your local Academy. www.pqacademy.com

Perform drama, dance and singing classes (various)

Confidence-building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination.Classes run in Bushey, Eastcote, Harrow, Ickenham, Kensal Rise, Northwood, Pinner, Ruislip, Stanmore and Watford. To book a FREE class visit www.perform.org.uk/try

Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA5, HA6)

Performance based theatre school for children aged 3-18 with venues based in Hatch End and Northwood. Weekly classes in Musical Theatre, Ballet, Tap, Modern, LAMDA and Acrobatics. www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk

Stagecoach (Various)

World of Children’s Yoga

New Weekend Family Yoga, for:

Learning & Development: Yoga for a confident, stable, calm, well-rested, focused state of mind, ready to receive learning.

Family Yoga with Pre-Schoolers (30 mins)

Family Yoga with Children (4-8 years) (40 mins)

Puberty & Change: Yoga for strength, flexibility, self-awareness, positive self-image and self-worth, emotional regulation

Dads & Lads Yoga (11+ years)

Mum & Daughter Yoga with Tweens (8-11years)

Mum & Daughter Yoga with Teens (11-15 years)

Yoga for Women: Yoga for balance, love, strength, healing, wisdom.

This is where Yoga for Women and all ages comes in and I share yoga designed for a woman’s body, women’s cycles, women’s lives.

anjli@worldofchildrensyoga.com

Facebook & Instagram: @worldofchildrensyoga

Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills. For babies 6 to 30 months. Email info@singandsign.co.uk www.singandsign.com

TISKA Karate

Learn the art of Karate. Classes held weekly in Harrow, Northwood and Wembley. Families welcome, Ages 4+. 4 week free trial (07739 572487) patel.karate@icloud.com. www.tiskakarate-harrow.co.uk/ www.tiskakaratenorthwood.co.uk/ www.tiskakarate-wembley.co.uk

Watford Cycle Hub

Offering cycle repair services, maintenance courses and cycle training. They also offer advice and information about cycling and bikes, including local cycle routes and maps, news about locally led rides and opportunities. www.watfordcyclehub.org.uk

Aqua Vie

Regular after school weekly classes in Bushey during term times. Spaces for new babies, toddlers and adults on Tues and Wed. Learn mindful, effortless swimming in a calm environment in warm water. office@aqua-vie.com or call 01923 245 773 or 07814 987 153. www.Aqua-vie.com

Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, by having fun! Call Harrow 020 3504 0100, Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294, Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154, Watford 01727 768 738, Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 or Northwood 01442 263 599. www.stagecoach.co.uk

CLASSES FOR GROWN UPS

Woodcarving (Iver)

A small group who would welcome new members. Drop in for a chat! Meet Monday mornings 9.30am-12.30pm at Evreham Centre. Email webb1959@btinternet.com.

Please say you saw these listings in

Would you like to include your clubs or class in our directory and reach 1,000’s of local parents? Email Heather at

Lincolnsfields Playzone, Bushey Hall Drive, Bushey WD23 2ES

We’re recruiting infants from birth through school age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s BabyLab & ToddlerLab in central London. Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses. We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies

Meet George Webster

Families chats with George Webster, the 22-year-old TV presenter, actor, dancer and ambassador for Mencap. George was catapulted into the public eye when he spoke about Down syndrome in his myth-busting video for BBC Bitesize. A trailblazer, he is now the first ever CBeebies presenter to have Down Syndrome. In November 2022, George won a BAFTA (Children and Young People Awards) for Best Presenter.

Congratulations on winning your BAFTA! How do you feel about that achievement?

I feel really proud and really honoured to achieve the award for presenter. I work with so many brilliant people at CBeebies and I feel like things are starting to improve for people like me in the media industry.

Tell us about your journey to become a presenter on CBeebies.

I always loved acting, dancing and performing at school and since then one thing has led to another. While volunteering at Parkrun, Sky filmed me for a documentary and I then became a Mencap ambassador. When my BBC Bitesize video busting the five myths of Down syndrome got five million hits, CBeebies got in touch inviting me to be a

guest presenter and now I’m a regular!

Who has been most supportive in helping you achieve your success?

My parents have been really supportive throughout my life and they always keep telling me ‘just be yourself.’ I always am and I want to say thank you to them for their love and support. Also, my support teachers at school, my friends, the NHS and local charities.

What advice would you give to encourage other youngsters who are facing challenges and want to pursue similar careers?

Be yourself and dream big. We can all dream big so don’t let anyone else decide for you as it’s your life. Get involved with local performing arts groups too.

GIVEAWAY!

Five signed copies of This is ME! picture book

Families has teamed up with BAFTA award-winning TV presenter, George Webster, CBeebies’ first presenter with Down syndrome, to o er five lucky children copies of George’s new book, This is ME!

This is ME! is a heartfelt and uplifting story that follows a little boy called George as he tells the reader all about who he is, his life and his experiences. George knows that having Down syndrome is an important part of him but it does not define him.

Featuring George’s real-life friends and family as well as a joyful cast of characters reflective of society and with bright and bold illustrations by best-selling illustrator, Tim Budgen, This is ME! celebrates uniqueness, being ourselves and how our di erences make us special.

Scan the QR code to apply or visit familiesmag.co.uk/go

Closing date: 21 April

T&Cs at https://bit.ly/gwbookgiveaway

What do you enjoy most about presenting?

I love everything about presenting at CBeebies! I’ve met loads of brilliant people and now we’re great friends. I also enjoy showing the viewers at home that people like me can be represented within the media and that ‘difference’ can inspire their kids’ lives. Their kids can have many role models, no matter who and what they are.

You’ve now written a picture book called This is ME! Tell us more.

This is ME! is about me, my friends and family when I was younger. It’s about celebrating differences no matter what we look like and who we are. It’s also about each person having their own glow inside that we all need to see.

The book illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to your rhyming words. How did the partnership come together?

My publisher, Scholastic Children’s Books, paired me with the wonderful illustrator, Tim Budgen. Working with him and my co-author, Claire Taylor, has been brilliant and a real collaborative effort.

What has been the best moment of your career so far?

There are so many! Working with CBeebies, writing a book, winning a BAFTA, being on Casualty, going to the premiere of S.A.M and dancing on stage with Talent Hub. Plus going to UDance National Finals to represent

Yorkshire as the first inclusive dance group with Meshdance and watching my appearance on Strictly Come Dancing back on Christmas Day.

You are ambassador for the charity Mencap, which works to improve the life of young people with learning difficulties. Tell us what this work means to you.

It means a lot to me as I have many friends with a learning disability and they’re all brilliant. People like us exist and working with Mencap means our voices get heard. I want people to understand us more rather than be scared of us.

Where would you like to see your career heading in the future?

I’d love to do more presenting and acting work. I would love to be in Death in Paradise, EastEnders and Doctor Who. Or I could be the new James Bond - why not! Also, I’d love to compete on the main show of Strictly Come Dancing.

If you had to bust one myth about having Down syndrome, what would it be?

‘People with Down syndrome are always happy.’ This just isn’t true! We have a range of emotions like every living person has.

What do you do to relax?

I love going to the theatre or cinema, watching films and tv and listening to music. Oh, and thrashing my dad at FIFA!

What’s new or free in 2023

By Claire Winter

To help you and your family get the best out of the year ahead, Families brings you the lowdown on exciting free events and new products for 2023.

The Young V&A (formerly the Museum of Childhood) will re-open in Bethnal Green, London this summer as a new national museum and creative powerhouse for children and young teens.

www.vam.ac.uk/young

Manchester Museum has undergone an incredible £15m transformation project. The Golden Mummies of Egypt promises to be an exciting exhibition featuring more than a hundred objects including eight mummies. www. museum.manchester.ac.uk

Go on a night-time adventure to look at constellations and galaxies at one of England’s growing range of dark sky experiences and festivals. 2023 marks the tenth anniversary of Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, the UK’s largest and first International Dark Sky Park, which spans nearly 1,500 square km of Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water and Forest Park. https://bit.ly/northdarkskies

Explore the North Downs Art Trail on foot or bicycle to enjoy stunning views between Dover in Kent and Farnham in Surrey, where a series of sculptures work as benches or shelters. Choose from a range of downloadable, self-guided walking or cycling routes. https://bit.ly/ndownsarttrail

Check out the all-British and all-electric Firefly Sports car for kids. It’s hoped the car will help educate youngsters about road safety and how future motor vehicles can be an environmental force for good. Try driving the Firefly Sport at Young Driver’s UK venues for £20. Book a lesson at www.youngdriver.com

All eyes will be on London with the Coronation of King Charles III on Saturday 6 May. Plus, we get a new bank holiday on Monday 8 May to continue the celebrations. Expect lots of free royal-themed events, exhibitions and celebrations across the UK. www.royal.uk

LEGO Friends® releases five new sets this year with diverse characters that better represent children. The new sets will be inclusive of various ethnicities, disabilities and neurodivergence and will feature characters with limb difference, Downs syndrome, anxiety, vitiligo and even pets with disabilities, including a blind dog and a dog with a wheelchair. https://bit.ly/friendsdiverse

The new car sunshade from Shady® is the only car sunshade that allows you to wind down your car window. The sunshade blocks nearly all harmful UV rays and sticks firmly to the glass of the window. It’s perfect for any age and if you have a newborn, it has been specifically developed to nurture and stimulate vision and the optic nerves by incorporating high contrast, black-and-white, fun images whilst providing protection from direct sunlight. www.sunshady.co.uk

Baboodle is the first baby equipment subscription platform, renting baby essentials to parents for as much time as they need. There are huge discounts on baby equipment and the scheme reduces the waste associated with baby equipment. Sign up and start saving at www.baboodle.co.uk

NEW

Secrets of our first thousand days

By Professor Lucy Green & Professor Mark Hanson

Have you ever wondered why keeping healthy is so tough for some of us but seems easy for others? And why the so-called ‘non-communicable’ diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes still account for most deaths around the world, despite all the efforts of doctors and health care systems? Did you know that unconscious communication with your baby in the womb helps their body’s control systems develop for lifelong health?

An increasing number of medical experts would say that we are missing a fundamental clue to what makes us healthy. Our lifelong risk of chronic diseases can be established during our first thousand days, from conception until age two. This critical time affects how our bodies are put together and how we will respond to the world we will live in, with its stresses, need for exercise and good diet, adequate sleep and healthy behaviours.

The secrets of the first thousand days of our lives start from the moment of conception. Once the egg and sperm have fused, the very early embryo begins ‘tasting’ its environment. It detects signals about the world from the mother’s hormones and the nutrients from the food she eats. These leave small ‘epigenic’ marks on the embryo’s DNA. It’s not just about the mother; the father’s sperm brings the egg its own marks too, affected by his diet and lifestyle. These change the instructions given by the inherited genes and can change how the unborn baby develops.

As the foetus grows it senses more signals from the mother’s lifestyle and nutrition. This is important because some organs developed before birth must serve us for a lifetime, like the muscle cells in our hearts and the filtering units in our kidneys. We even started practising breathing, albeit underwater, inside the womb and our lungs are sensitive to cues from our mother. Scientific advances reveal even more surprises; for example, that foetal brain electrical activity looks like adult sleep states. Could the foetus even be dreaming?

Children continue to respond to care and signals from the environment as they achieve major milestones before the age of 2, such as eating solid food, speaking their first words and taking first steps unaided. Some developments are less visible, like colonisation of the gut with bacteria, building an immune system based on ‘experience,’ or the changes in nerve cells and connections within the brain as they learn to recognise new faces and voices.

We are quite used to checking our children’s growth from the moment of birth. It is particularly important because poor foetal growth is associated with greater risk of non-communicable diseases later in life and small babies sometimes struggle to thrive. In addition, more young people than ever are overweight or obese and this risk of poor overall health can pass across generations too.

Knowing the secrets of development and how they can affect risks of ill-health later in life makes us think: if all parents were better prepared before pregnancy they would give the best first thousand days to the next generation. Our children won’t remember it or grow up to thank us but they’ll stay healthier.

Mark and Lucy, both at the University of Southampton, have spent decades researching the processes underlying human early development, which are now published in their new book What Makes a Person: Secrets of Our First 1,000 Days, available from www.bookshop.org

What Makes a Person

The achievements of biomedical research over recent decades have made it clear that while genes are the tools which our bodies use to develop, the plan of how we each develop and the use of the tools to do the job, is very flexible. The messages about life received from our parents sets the course of development.

What Makes a Person: Secrets of Our First 1,000 Days reveals less obvious and well-known scientific ‘secrets’ of development in the womb and early childhood.

interoception

By Usha Patel - SEE ADVERT ON BACK COVER

‘My child is in the 99th percentile for reading but he is not able to tell me when he is hungry or thirsty.’

Traditionally, our mainstream education system tells us that a child is successful when they achieve at curriculum subjects such as reading and writing. We rarely associate academically bright children with learning difficulties or other cognitive issues, so these can often go overlooked in an academically achieving child.

These days, we are more aware of dyslexia and ADHD and how they can affect us but other more subtle difficulties can be difficult to understand. For example, I recently spoke to a parent of an 8-year-old boy who is a very fast learner and enjoys reading, of which his mother is, of course, very proud. However, he struggles a great deal with other things. Every week, there is a near accident in the toilet department; he doesn’t seem to know when he is hungry, cold or thirsty and his teachers report that he is socially aloof. So what could be going on here?

This is a problem with something called interoception and it can be worked on and improved by an experienced and qualified therapist.

What is interoception?

Interoception is better known as our body’s ability to understand messages from our internal organs. This includes the sense that we feel hungry or thirsty. Ignoring or not understanding these feelings can cause all sorts of problems. For example, not understanding when your bladder is full can lead to accidents.

As children grow, they learn to interpret the signals their bodies give them. However, sometimes interoception can be a difficult skill to acquire. Many children and even adults need help to

develop this internal intelligence, which is distinct and separate from academic skills such as reading and writing. It is not uncommon for internal intelligence and academic skills to be out of synch.

Developing mindfulness can be very beneficial to us all in understanding how our interoception works. It can be a top-down way to deliver awareness and improve our understanding of our bodies. Giving ourselves the ability to better understand our body’s signals naturally leads to better interoception.

What happens when we can’t tap into our feelings?

Interoception is part of something larger called neuroception, which is our response to all sensory triggers, both internal and external. As it includes our body’s signals and those around us, such as different sensations and noises, it plays a huge part in how we understand if we are safe or not. For example, neuroception is responsible for how we interpret the tones of others’ voices: whether they seem gentle and friendly, or angry and threatening.

Of course, these skills don’t just affect us physically, they also affect how we interpret our emotional state and how we decide to act on our emotions. If we can’t understand our own emotions, we can’t understand those of others either. This leads to awkward social interaction, which is where that sense of aloofness from a person with poor neuroception often comes from, as well as their apparent lack of empathy.

Not feeling safe because we don’t understand how to read the environment and those around us can lead to a poor sense of self and be linked to mental health problems. It’s fortunate that there are ways to help children with this issue.

Usha Patel is a neurocognitive therapist who runs Raviv Practice London (www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk).

Improving mindfulness

Here is a simple exercise your child can try at home. Sit in a favourite chair with both feet flat on the floor. Have one hand on the navel and the other on the chest. Be still in this position for ten to twenty seconds.

Experience the rise and fall of the tummy and the beating of the heart. Ignore the outside world and enjoy this moment. This is easy to say but not always easy to do. Practice makes perfect!

What's On listings for all the family

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing. Email Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk

Many activities and events require advance booking. Please check the website in the listing to confirm terms and conditions for attending before heading out.

MARCH

Until Fri 31 Mar - Museum Mystery Trail (HA5) Visit the galleries at the Heath Robinson Museum before 31st March to find a free Museum Mystery Trail for families, just ask for the activity sheet at the front desk! The trail was created to celebrate the release of the brilliantly funny new children’s book Montgomery Bonbon: Murder at the Museum written by comedian Alasdair Beckett-King and illustrated by Claire Powell. You’ll be able to find copies of the book in the museum shop!! www.heathrobinsonmuseum.org/ whats-on/museum-mystery-trail

Sat 4 Mar & Sat 1 Apr - Northwood

Craft Market (HA6) Taking place at Methodist Church Hall, Northwood from 10am-2pm, there will be a variety of handmade crafts to browse & buy. It’s the perfect place to find original gifts, or a treat for yourself. Children can try some hands-on

crafts and make something to take home.

www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk

Sat 4 Mar & Sat 1 Apr - Object Handling (WC1N) Have you ever wished you could reach out and touch something in a museum? If so, you might want to head along to the Picture Gallery at the Foundling Museum any time from 2pm-4pm for their object handling sessions. Guided by a member of staff, you’ll have the chance to hold a selection of objects mirroring those in the Museum’s collection, such as replica tokens, hand-made items of clothing, and copies of billet books. The sessions are open to everyone of all ages and abilities, and are free with museum admission. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk/ event/object-handling-march

Sat 4–Sun 5 Mar - Family Fun Weekends (SE10) Taking place on the first weekend of every month, Cutty Sark Family Weekends feature

workshops, songs, activities and experiences for all ages. Meet characters from Cutty Sark’s past and sing along with the resident sea shanty singers - for the real sailor experience, why not dress up as a member of Cutty Sark’s crew? www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/cuttysark/family-fun-weekend

Wed 8 Mar - International Women’s Day at The Yellow (HA9) Join The Yellow for International Women’s Day on Wednesday 8th March. The Yellow team at Wembley Park has organised a full program of exciting and diverse activities, including refreshments for International Women’s Day 2023. 9am-2.30pm. www.wembleypark.com/whats-on/ the-yellow-international-womensday-8-march-23

Wed 8–Sun 12 Mar - Science Fiction Film Festival (SW7) To celebrate the Science Museum’s blockbuster exhibition Science Fiction: Voyage to the Edge of Imagination, you are invited to explore realms beyond reality at this epic Science Fiction Film Festival. From special IMAX screenings of old (and not so old) classics, to fascinating discussions with subject matter experts, immerse yourself in all things sci-fi at the Science Fiction Film Festival. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/seeand-do/science-fiction/sciencefiction-film-festival

Sat 11 Mar - Trinity Orchestra: BRAHMS Academic Festival Overture (HA6) Join Trinity Orchestra in Northwood Hills for an evening of contrasting orchestral works, conducted by John Andrews. To perform the concert’s centrepiece, Richard Strauss’ Horn Concerto No. 2, Trinity Orchestra is delighted to welcome back the superb young horn player Ben Goldscheider, recently named as one of Classic FM’s Rising Stars of 2022. Concert 7.30pm, Pre-concert talk 7pm at St Edmund’s Church. www.trinityorchestra.org.uk/ th_event/mar2023

Sat 11–Sun 12 Mar – Crafterama (N22) Inspiration and shopping for crafters at Alexandra Palace. Art stamps, mixed media, art journalling, die cutting, decopatch and much more. Head along for a weekend of crafty fun!

www.alexandrapalace.com/whatson/crafterama-3

Tue 14 Mar – Herts Family Centre Baby Fair (WD25) New Baby Fair events are for expectant parents or parents of a child under 1 year, bringing together everything you need to give your baby the best start. Meet other local parents; Baby play area; Save money with the baby clothes swap; Enjoy free refreshments; Find out what’s on at your local Family Centre; Hands-on expert advice from the team qualified in Early Years Development. At Meriden Community Centre from 2-4pm. www.hertsfamilycentres.org

Sat 18 – Sun 19 Mar - The London Festival of Railway Modelling (N22) Regarded as one of the UK’s biggest and best model railway exhibitions, The London Festival of Railway Modelling at Alexandra Palace is the must-attend event for anyone interested in miniature railways. Visitors can expect over 35 of the country’s best model railways hand-picked by The Model Railway Club.

www.alexandrapalace.com/whatson/the-london-festival-of-railwaymodelling-6

Sat 18 Mar - Military Medicine and Recovery (SW3) Speak to soldiers and medics at the National Army Museum and gain a fresh insight into military medicine and the support available to those who have served. In this Spotlight event, learn about the importance of military medicine and see how the Army and charities play an essential role in the rehabilitation process of service personnel.

www.nam.ac.uk/whats-on/ military-medicine-and-recovery

Sat 18 Mar - LGBTQ+ Family Network (SE10) A safe space for local LGBTQ+ families to meet one another, get involved in creative activities for all ages and explore the stories within the collection at the National Maritime Museum. Pop in with your family between 10am12pm. Together you can explore, create and get to know other families within the Network.

www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/ national-maritime-museum/lgbtqfamily-network

Sun 19 Mar - Family Workshop:

Make your own Tudor Bling (HA2) In this workshop at Headstone Manor Museum you’ll be creating your own Tudor inspired jewellery using recycled metals and upcycled gems. Using simple embossed drawings, stamps and wire, turn your trash into treasure. Ages 5+. 11am & 1:15pm.

www.headstonemanor.org/events/ family-workshop-make-your-owntudor-bling

Wed 22 Mar & Wed 5 Apr - Relaxed

Opening Tours (NW1) Relaxed opening tours allow people with autism and other neurodiversities to enjoy ZSL London Zoo in a calm and safe environment. Relaxed opening tours will take place before the Zoo opens to the public, at 8.30am. www.londonzoo.org/plan-yourvisit/events/relaxed-opening-tours

Wed 29 Mar–Mon 10 Apr (closed 3 & 4 Apr) - Easter Adventures at Waddesdon (HP18) Head to Waddesdon Manor this Easter for a fun-filled Easter adventure sure to surprise and delight! As well as the popular Easter trail, make sure to stop off at the newly-refurbished playground and refuel with delicious

food and drink from the various food outlets. To guarantee a place, tickets must be pre-booked.

www.waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/ easter

Fri 31 Mar–Sun 16 Apr - Easter Fun with Pip and Posy at Whipsnade Zoo (LU6) Join Pip and Posy discovering the amazing animals at Whipsnade Zoo this Easter. Enter their wonderful world of play and exploration following a familyfriendly trail to learn about some of Whipsnade’s impressive animal residents.

www.whipsnadezoo.org/plan-yourvisit/events/easter-fun-pip-posywhipsnade-zoo

Sat 1 Apr - Caribbean Takeover (SE10) Celebrate black history and culture in Britain with the Caribbean Social Forum as they take over the National Maritime Museum. This unique event celebrates the fusion of cultures from Africa, the Caribbean and Britain. From free masterclasses to fabulous performances on the Great Map, we’re dedicating Sat 1 April to celebrating black history and culture in Britain.

www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/ national-maritime-museum/ caribbean-takeover

Sat 1–Sun 2 Apr - Kew The Run (TW9) Get your running shoes on and take part in the spring 10K, Half Marathon and Family Mile at Kew Gardens. The run is welcome to all abilities and runners/ power walkers can enjoy a scenic tour past the beautiful architecture of the Palm House and Temperature House. www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whatson/kew-the-run

Sat 1–Sat 15 Apr - Autism and Sensory Friendly Pond Dipping (SW13) The most popular activity at WWT London Wetland Centre for families is pond dipping. These sessions have a limited capacity and will be running at the quietest part of the day. Grab a net and join the team to find out what lives in the water. From snails to newts and shrimps, you’ll be amazed just how much you’ll find. Sat 1, 8 & 15 April at 10am. www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ london/whats-on/autism-andsensory-friendly-pond-dipping

Sat 1–Sun 16 Apr - Gnome Trail (HA2) Can you find those pesky gnomes hidden around Headstone Manor? Find them all and solve their puzzle to earn a prize!

www.headstonemanor.org/events/ gnome-trail-2

Sat 1–Sun 16 Apr - Pilot Training (NW9) Have you got what it takes to train like an RAF pilot during the Second World War? Are you brave enough to embark on a mission that will test your speed, brain, and teamwork skills? Join the pilot training programme this Easter at the RAF Museum London and find out if you’ve got what it takes to be a RAF Pilot!

www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london/ whats-going-on/events/pilottraining-london

Sat 1–Sun 16 Apr - Easter

Adventure Quest At Kenwood (NW3) Join in a cracking adventure quest at Kenwood House this Easter holiday. Explore the grounds to hunt for clues and challenges and discover traditional Easter games like egg rolling and the egg and spoon race. Track down the Easter eggs and you’ll be rewarded with an

adventurer’s certificate and a tasty chocolate treat.

www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/whats-on/kenwood-easteradventure-quest

Sat 1–Sun 16 Apr - Easter Holidays: Bubbles! (TW8) What do you get when you mix soap and water?

Bubbles! Head along to the London Museum of Water and Steam this Easter holiday for some bubbletastic fun! There’ll be crafts, handson activities and the popular Wet and Bubbly Science Show! www.waterandsteam.org. uk/event/easter-holidaysbubbles/2023-04-01

Sat 1–Sun 16 Apr - Easter Holidays: Ways into Drawing (SE10) This Easter, play with mark-making and materials to turn drawing on its head! Go along to the National Maritime Museum and get stuck in this spring with SEAson of Drawing activities for the whole family, inspired by the Van de Velde display at the Queen’s House. These Free, drop in sessions, are suitable for all ages and abilities and will run on select dates in the Easter holidays. www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/ learning-space/easter-holidaysways-drawing

Sat 1–Sun 16 Apr – Superworm (TW9) This Easter at Kew Gardens, join Superworm for a new adventure with all the heroes from the bestselling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Set out on a journey through the plant and animal kingdoms, against the magical backdrop of the Gardens in spring. Follow the trail and discover familiar scenes from the story.

www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whatson/superworm

Sat 1–Sun 16 Apr - Duck Detectives (SW13) Head along to WWT London Wetland Centre for a family day out of exploration and discovery that will put all of your senses to the test. To succeed as a Duck Detective and complete the Easter trail, you’ll need to get closer than ever to nature.

It’s time to investigate underwater mysteries. Follow tracks to work out who’s been creeping around at night. And use everything from feather bird calls to animal poo (honestly!) to reveal the wildlife secrets only a true Duck Detective knows.

www.wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/london/whats-on/duckdetectives-6

Sat 1–Sun 16 Apr - Osterley Park and House Easter Trail (TW7) Hop along to the Easter trail at Osterley Park and House this spring and follow Bunny’s rhyming trail around the garden and parkland. Take part in hopscotch, egg hoopla, word scrambles and a game of ‘pass the egg’ along the way. 10am-5pm (last entry 4pm).

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ london/osterley-park-and-house

Sun 2 Apr - Hop to it: Easter Trail (N3) Hop-on down to Stephens House and Gardens for their egg-citing Easter Trail. Follow the clues and claim your prize. Booking essential. 1-3pm. www.stephenshouseandgardens. com/events

Tue 4 Apr - The King of Nothing Tour (WD3) Aimed at ages 5-11, MONSTRO and Little Angel’s latest Puppet Musical is an anarchic retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s Emperor’s New Clothes, in which the characters (and the audience) discover that people can be made to believe ANYTHING. With songs, puppetry, slapstick and more, the two Swindlers (or should we call them “actors”?) will weave their cunning magic on children and adults alike. At Rickmansworth Library from 10.30-11.30am.

Tue 4 & Tue 11 Apr - Terrific Tuesdays (HP8) It can be tough finding activities to keep the children entertained throughout the school holidays. So on every Bucks school holiday Tuesday throughout Chiltern Open Air Museum’s open season the Museum’s Education team have created special themed family activities, games and crafts all for the standard admission price! www.coam.org.uk/events/easterholiday-activities

Wed 5 & Sun 30 Apr - Children’s Garden Quiet Sessions (TW9)

Head to Kew Gardens for a quiet session in the Children’s Garden for ages 2 to 12 with special educational needs and disabilities. Wed 5 Apr, 4.15-6pm, Sun 30 Apr, 8.30-10am. www.kew.org/kew-gardens/ whats-on/childrens-garden-quietsessions

Thu 6 Apr - Tote Bag

Customisation Workshop (HA5)

This tote bag customisation workshop at Harrow Arts Centre is a great opportunity for families and individuals to get creative with art in a relaxed environment. Led by professional street artist and illustrator ’Roo’, this session allows participants to use their own initiative or receive guidance, in practicing with and using fabric pens

to customise their own tote bags, which they get to take home and keep. 10am - 12pm, for families with children aged 7+.

www.harrowarts.com/whats-on/ event/learn-harrow-tote-bagcustomisation-workshop

Fri 7–Mon 10 Apr - Easter Weekend

(HP8) Head along to Chiltern Open Air Museum this Easter Bank Holiday weekend and explore the historic buildings and learn about some Easter traditions. Take part in the Easter trail, have a go at some family crafts and see the baby lambs. There are 45 acres for you to explore including woodland and new adventure playground.

www.coam.org.uk/events/easterevents

Fri 7 – Mon 10 Apr - Easter Trail

(SG1) Head to Knebworth House and Gardens for a Spring dayout over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend. On arrival collect your sheet and follow the Trail around Knebworth Gardens looking for clues to complete the word puzzle. Each child with a trail sheet will be able to collect a prize at the end. www.knebworthhouse.com/ events/easter-trail

Sat 8 Apr - Easter Chick Trail

(HA5) This Easter event taking place at West House, Pinner, involves a 20 min trail around Pinner Memorial Park. Help Squishy find their friends by answering quiz questions to get a little prize! 11am-3pm. Ages 3-10. www.heathrobinsonmuseum.org/ whats-on/easter-chick-trail

Sat 8 Apr - Pedal Power Disco

(SE1) Put the pedal to the metal as you cycle to power the party at the Southbank Centre. The disco can’t go on without you! 12pm. www.southbankcentre. co.uk/whats-on/familyyoung-people/pedal-powerdisco?eventId=935246

Sat 15 Apr - South West Herts 41st Annual Model Railway Exhibition (WD23) The Watford Model Railway Exhibition will take place at Queens School, Bushey between 10am4.30pm. A host of excellent model railway layouts have been invited in a variety of scales and gauges. Refreshments will be available, as will a children’s quiz sheet. www.southwesthertsmrs.org.uk

Sun 16 Apr - Family Workshop: Magical Mini Garden Workshop (HA2) We all know Gnomes love gardening, but what would their tiny gardens look like? Go and make miniature flowers, trees, ponds…. who knows what you’ll create? At Headstone Manor Museum at 11am, 12:15pm & 1:45pm.

www.headstonemanor.org/events/ family-workshop-magical-minigarden-workshop

Sun 16 Apr - Book Buzz (N12) Head down to Artsdepot for a massive celebration of all things books and reading as their legendary book swap returns! What wonders will you discover? Entrance is free and no booking is required. 11am-4pm. www.artsdepot.co.uk/familyeaster-holidays/book-buzz-1

Wed 19 Apr–Mon 1 May - Forever Flowers with Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity (HP18) This April, see a thought-provoking installation of 1000 hand-crafted forget-me-nots in the Aviary Gardens at Waddesdon Manor, in partnership with Florence

Nightingale Hospice Charity. Forgetme-nots have a symbolic meaning of remembrance, love and devotion and each flower in the display is dedicated to the life and memory of a loved one no longer here.

www.waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/ forever-flowers

Fri 21–Sun 23 Apr - The Cycle Show (N22) The UK’s biggest cycling show will celebrate its 20th anniversary in London this April at Ally Pally. Three days showcasing all things cycling, from the biggest brands and stars of the sport to incredible custom bikes, retro MTBs and BMX, demo tracks, skills sessions, and some of the industry’s top experts.

www.alexandrapalace.com/whatson/the-cycle-show-3

Sat 22 Apr - The Wild Escape (N6) On Earth Day 2023, Lauderdale House are celebrating Waterlow Park and its value to the local community through a series of free, art-based workshops for children aged 7 - 11. The workshops will run from 10am until 3pm and consist of a printing activity using leaves and other natural materials from the park. The children will also receive a Waterlow Park Trail activity book that will take them around the park, with additional pages to be used throughout the seasons! Free, but please book your place. www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk/ whats-on/wild-escape

Sat 22 – Sun 23 Apr - Pillows and Pilots (NW9) The popular Pillows and Pilots event is back! On Saturday 22 April, budding aviators have the amazing opportunity to explore the RAF Museum London

after opening hours. The event is open to youth groups with young people aged between 7 and 15 years. www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london/ whats-going-on/events/pillowsand-pilots-london-2023

Sat 29–Sun 30 Apr - HistFest 2023 (NW1) The dynamic history festival celebrating the brightest and the best in the world of history returns to the British Library. Join in an exciting weekend of talks, discussions, performance and music. Expect laughter and learning with an amazing line-up of historians, writers and novelists. www.bl.uk/events/histfest

Sat 29 Apr–Tue 2 May - Milldon Art Society (NW7) An exhibition of over 150 paintings at Mill Hill. Free entry. Trinity Church, NW7 3TB. 29 Apr 2-8pm; 30 Apr 1-8pm; 1 May 10am8pm; 2 May 10am-5pm. Society members meet to paint every Wed. 7-9.30pm at Eversfield Centre, NW7 2AE. Visitors welcome. www.milldonartsociety.org.uk

Sun 30 Apr – Mon 1 MayElizabethan May Day Bank Holiday Event (HP8) This May Day, Chiltern Open Air Museum are delighted to welcome back the Suffolk Free Company and Myal Pyper to bring you a vibrant and engaging taste of Elizabethan (the first time round) life and celebration. There will be music and dancing to the finest tunes and the most popular dances of the time. You will also find sumptuous food being prepared and a variety of crafts for you to enjoy.

www.coam.org.uk/events/mayday-bank-holiday-event

Spring confidence-building fun with Perform

Spring is the perfect time of year to get those feel-good endorphins pumping and Perform’s new summer term themes will get bodies moving and hearts singing. What’s more, your child can try a class for FREE!

Perform offers a different type of children’s drama class. It doesn’t focus on creating perfect dancers or the next child star. Instead, children’s social development is at the heart of its classes, using a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential.

Exciting termly themes keep young imaginations buzzing while small class sizes ensure lots of individual attention from experienced, professionally trained actors, dancers and singers. Classes are for children of all abilities and they can join at any point in the term; just be ready to have the best fun of the week!

This term, ages 4-7 will be setting sail on the Jammy Dodger in Mermaids & Pirates, whilst ages 7–12 will take part in The Dream, an hilarious adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

With local venues in Bushey, Eastcote, Harrow, Ickenham, Kensal Rise, Northwood, Pinner, Ruislip, Stanmore and Watford, find the right class and book at www.perform.org.uk/try

What's On Theatre & Family Shows

The Alban Arena, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk

Sat 1–Sun 2 Apr

Tales from Acorn Wood

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved Tales from Acorn Wood stories are brought to life on stage in an enchanting lift-the-flap experience. All ages.

Mon 3–Wed 5 Apr

Dinosaur World Live

Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family. Ages 3+

Artsdepot, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk

Thu 30 Mar

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy

Grown up comedy...babies welcome! The award winning shows feature the funniest comedians in a totally baby-friendly environment. (15 month age limit).

Sun 2 Apr

Animals

Fun, interactive with original songs, Animals! is an empowering and uplifting performance about animals, humans and nature. Ages 6+

Sun 2-Thu 6 Apr

Jack V Giant

Join Jack, a brave young girl who embarks on a giant adventure when she sells the family cow in return for magic beans. Brought to life through puppetry and music. Ages 4+

Mon 3-Wed 5 Apr

Hey Diddle Diddle

Featuring live music, puppetry, laughter, and lots of chances to join in. It lasts 45 minutes and every performance is relaxed, making it an ideal introduction to theatre for children. Ages 0-6 yrs

Sat 8 Apr

The Bubble Show

A unique blend of magic, storytelling and bubble art! An interactive, fun, international award-winning bubble extravaganza! Ages 3–12

Sun 16 Apr

Tom Thumb

This classic story is brought to life in a fascinating show full of magic with feathery spinning birds, a flying house and a portable forest. Ages 3+

The Beck Theatre 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk

Sun 26 Mar

The Jungle Book

Filled with original music, audience interaction and bags of comedy, you are invited to join Mowgli and his friends on a madcap jungle adventure. Ages 4+

Mon 10 Apr

Dinosaur Adventure Live

Join the intrepid rangers on a quest to recover the data crystal, restore power to the island and save the Dinosaurs! All ages

Fri 14–Sat 15 Apr

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Filled with amazing stage spectacle including the high-flying car herself and unforgettable songs by the Sherman Brothers, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a fantasmagorical, fun-filled, simply unmissable stage experience.

Chickenshed, Southgate, N14 020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk

Tue 11-Sat 15 Apr

Easter Bunny Tales

Enjoy some egg-stra special Easter fun. Held in the large Rayne Theatre, the Tales from the Shed team will get the audience involved - meet some new characters and join in with the singing, dancing. Ages 0-6yrs

Fri 14 Apr

Easter Planet Play

Especially recommended for very young children, join the Tales team for a fun and interactive sensory session with an egg-stra special Easter theme. Ages 0-3

Harrow Arts Centre, HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com

Sat 11 Mar

The Captain Calamity Science

Explosion

Captain Calamity and his crazy Crew explode onto the scene with a brand new show full of stretchy slime, pop rockets, smoke rings, flying toilet roll, fountains of foam and more. Ages 4-12 yrs

Tue 4 Apr

Alice in Wonderland

Join Alice on a magical wander through Wonderland as she meets a whole host of crazy characters straight out of the classic book by Lewis Carroll. Pop songs, puppets and magic illusions bring this fantastic Easter pantomime to life.

Tue 11 Apr

I Spy With my Little Eye

Molly and Bingo the puppy are having a birthday party and best of all, you’re invited! There’ll be a terrific treasure hunt, all your favourite singalong songs and lots of fantastic games to play. Ages 2+

Little Angel Theatre, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com

Until Sun 23 Apr

The Flying Bath

Julia Donaldson and David Roberts’ playful and adventurous story splashes into life in this adaptation featuring catchy songs, quirky bath toys and everyday heroes. Ages 2–5

Until Sun 16 Apr

The Instrumentals

Bursting to life with brilliant puppetry and bold music, the Instrumentals is full of love and laughter, about the memories we hold and how we celebrate life. Ages 4–8 yrs

Fri 21–Sun 23 Apr

The Nosy Little Troll Head along for this funny Scandinavian story starring a tasty brown cheese song, a lost goat

and a bushy old troll with green fingers. Garlic Theatre hold their young audience spellbound with wonderfully crafted troll puppets and live music. Ages 3–8

Pump House, WD17 01923 241 362 www.pumphouse.info

Thu 23–Sat 25 Mar

Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR

Follow all of your favourite friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar.

Thu 27–Sat 29 Apr

Nativity! The Musical

Every child in every school has one Christmas wish, to star in a Nativity and at St Bernadette’s School they’re attempting to mount a musical version!

Puppet Theatre Barge, W9 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com

Sat 11 Mar–Sun 7 May

The Blue Pool of Questions

A brand new production fusing puppetry, storytelling and live music. Performed using table top puppetry and the rarely seen black light theatre technique. Ages 3+

The Radlett Centre, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Mon 3 Apr

Fireman Sam

Join in this singing, dancing, actionpacked show. Become a fire-fighter cadet and then watch the magic of the circus. Ages 3-7 yrs

Wed 5 Apr

The Jungle Book

Filled with original music, audience interaction and bags of comedy, you are invited to join Mowgli and his friends on a madcap jungle adventure. Ages 4+

Sun 23 Apr

Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show

Mark’s Spectacular Science Show explores the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephant’s toothpaste, vortexgenerating dustbins and even howling jelly babies!

Watersmeet, WD3 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk

Sat 8 Apr

The Three Little Pigs

Join the three pigs as they excitedly leave the family sty in search of new adventures! Get those trotters tapping and those snouts a-squealin’ with new catchy songs, dancing and plenty of audience participation.

Thu 13 Apr

Ministry Of Science Live: Science

Saved The World

Join the presenters as they dive deep

into the world of science and look at how science shapes the modern world we live in with a few loud bangs along the way!

Watford Palace Theatre, WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

Tue 28 Mar–Sat 8 Apr

The Lost Spells

A fun, wild and boisterous adventure full of paw-tapping music and dancing, played live on-stage by talented actor-musicians. Ages 6+

Wed 12 Apr

Curious Investigators

Curious Investigators is a cracking adventure created in collaboration with engineering experts from Lancaster University: a delightfully surprising, highly visual show for ages 3-7.

Fri 14 Apr

Pop Princesses

Featuring a soundtrack of top pop hits from artists such as Little Mix, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor and Miley Cyrus, plus all the best songs from all your favourite films and musicals.

Wed 19 Apr

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy

Grown up comedy...babies welcome! The award winning shows feature the funniest comedians in a totally baby-friendly environment. (15 month age limit).

Fri 21–Sun 23 Apr

Twirlywoos Live

Join Great BigHoo, Toodloo, Chickedy, Chick and their friends as they discover the wonderful world around us! Expect mischief, music and plenty of surprises as they set sail in their big red boat. The funny, loveable Twirlywoos are brought to life on stage with beautifully inventive puppetry promising an hour of colourful fun and laughter.

Winston Churchill Theatre, HA4 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk

Wed 8–Sat 11 Mar

Disney’s Little Mermaid Hillingdon Musical Society are proud to present this magical, feel-good musical based on the Hans Christian Andersen book of the same name.

Wed 22–Fri 24 Mar

High School Musical

This production features a super talented young cast, great songs from there film, and the classic story of Troy, Gabriella and the other pupils at East High.

Wed 12–Sun 16 Apr

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Pantomime returns in the Easter holidays. Expect all the usual jokes, songs and audience participation in this timeless tale with Dorothy, Toto, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and Scarecrow.

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