Families SE London July-August 2018 issue 192

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South East ONLINE EDITIONg

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SCHOOL’S OUT •• Summer, Summer, here here we we come come

SUNLIGHT, CAMERA, ACTION! •• Top Top photography photography tips tips to to capture capture summer summer memories memories

WHAT’S ON •• Where Where to to go, go, what what to to see, see, what what do do to to this this summer summer

Issue 192 July August 2018

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Oh the joy of summer (cue a big yippee from children and school teachers across the country). The school-run free mornings, that take-each-dayas-it-comes freedom. The Great Outdoors promises a plethora of sun-drenched days, all at the end of a short bus ride - and personally I’m looking forward to not having to listen to any more football talk.

If your children have energy to burn, turn to pages 4-5 for holiday courses and play camps where experienced and admirably energetic staff lay on all manner of sporty, theatrical, crafty and fun activities for days on end. Places go fast, so book yours soon - and please tell them you found them in Families.

If you’re off on your hols; have a wonderful time! We’ll be back in September - enjoy the break.

Robina Cowan, editor

IN THIS ISSUE 2-3

Local News and Views Baby equipment and tool hire, movement and music classes for children, the Young Photographer Award

4-5

Holiday Workshops and Daycamps Playschemes and holiday camps to keep the little ones entertained over the summer

6

Education News South London signs up the The Daily Mile, nursery children in nursing homes, and monitoring pupils’ vulnerability to air pollution

7

Seize the Summer Sneak some learning-based, fun activities into the holidays to keep children’s brains ticking over

8

Family Health What cradling baby dolls says about your child, clever apps, eco friendly wipes and chomping on a monkey

11

The Book Page Justine’s pick of summer books for parents and offspring to enjoy on the sunlounger, on a picnic rug, at bedtime...

12-15

email your news to editor@familiesse.co.uk

NEWS FOR PARENTS Tiny Tots Rental Baby equipment hire - now there’s a brilliant idea for families on the move, or if you want to try before you buy.

Tiny Tots Rental has a huge range of clean, tested, safety standard compliant pushchairs and travel systems, car seats and carriers, high chairs, pop up cots, trikes, play and feeding time items for hire. Jolly useful if you want to travel light while visiting family and friends, or if you have visitors who’ll need equipment you don’t have.

The company offers a flexible collection service from their Peckham base, and delivery services from £15.

Phone 0741 802 8273 for an appointment or browse online. www.tinytotsrentals.co.uk

Sunlight, Camera, Action!

Expert tips for capturing memorable moments for the photo album

10

LocalNews

What’s On Daytrips, events and shows galore for family fun

Autumn issue out

The Library of Things is the place to borrow items that are costly to buy and bulky to store between infrequent uses. Lawn mowers, power tools, pasta and bread makers, sewing machines, GoPro cameras and gazebos for low cost daily hire - the list goes on.

Thanks to crowdfunding we now have one in southeast London within the Upper Norwood library hub. The venue also hosts restart parties - where you can learn how to fix problematic toaster, laptops, blenders and clothes that need patching up or repairing.

To browse the ‘things’, and find out how it all works, see the website. www.libraryofthings.co.uk/crystalpalace

7 September, deadline 17 August

Families South East PO Box 11591, London SE26 6WB 020 8699 7240, editor@familiesse.co.uk

www.familiesse.co.uk for back issues and our media pack

Families South East London

@FamiliesSELon

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

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The Library of Things

Special needs nursery opens in Catford Bubbly Nursery is a spacious setting where highly trained staff will care for children who are delayed in their milestones. Opening soon, the nursery will support and encourage children to meet all areas of development; including those who already have diagnoses, or are undergoing assessment.

Facilities include sensory and soft play areas, special toys and equipment, music and art therapy, wheelchair access and a playground, with a high staff to children ratio to support children who have additional needs. www.bubblyspecialneedsnursery.co.uk

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AC T I V I TI E S FO R C HI LDR EN Free trial and Early Bird Offer with Funky !!Monkey Keyboard Classes Music plays an invaluable role in a child’s development and Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes provide an excellent service that strives to be accessible! to all. They love what they do, they care about who does it and are delighted to see children succeed! ! (director and founder) and her team have an Ali Edwards, absolute passion ! for music. They know exactly how to teach it in an engaging, understandable way, with lessons perfectly balanced for ! the younger beginner from 4 years old. Small groups are taught how to play the electronic keyboard, and to read and write music, from the very beginning right through to first grade. A well-balanced lesson of group, individual, theory and practical work, games and quizzes, means their classes delight and inspire children year after year. The action-packed sessions are designed to provide a comprehensive and stimulating introduction to keyboard skills - an ideal starting point if your child isn’t quite ready for individual tuition.

SPECIAL OFFER: Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes are offering a free trial class and 10% discount for Sept-Dec fees if you register by 31 August 2018. To register and gain your free trial plus special offer fees, book online where you can also watch an inspiring mini film and show your little musician what it's all about. www.funkymonkey.info

!

Athletics for mini people Newly arrived in southeast London, Mini Athletics run classes for 2-7 year-olds, structured to develop physical, cognitive and social skills. Plenty of running, jumping and throwing games introduce children to the movements and skills necessary for a wide range of sports, promoting a healthy, active and happy lifestyle.

Classes for 2-31⁄2, 31⁄2-5 and 5-7 year-olds are held in Forest Hill, Dulwich Village and Peckham, with free taster sessions available.

Email awilliams@miniathletics.com or read more online. www.miniathletics.com

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Young Photographer Awards !

Do you have a keen young photographer in the family? If so, point them in the direction of this year's RSPCA Young Photographer Awards. In a range of categories, the RSPCA wants to see young people's pet photos; images depicting the human impact on animals and more, with judges! including Chris Packham overseeing entries.

The overall prize is a weekend photography break from Nature's Images - 'Deer and Birds of Prey UK - 2019' (worth £890), and up to £600 of camera vouchers from Wex Photographic for the category winners. Winners will also receive a trophy and certificate.

The closing date is 4pm on Friday 17 August. Read more, find tips and enter online. www.rspca.org.uk/ypa/18

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Holiday Workshops and Daycamps

STAGECOACH DULWICH: HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 1 AND 2

School’s out for summer - hurray!

Time for children to make a song and dance, brush up on tennis skills, have an outdoor adventure, make music, discover computer coding or boost their school skills ahead of the new term

FLY TO NEVERLAND WITH PERFORM

FREEDOM ACADEMY SUMMER WORKSHOPS 20-24 August, KINGSDALE FOUNDATION SCHOOL, West Dulwich SE21, 07530 061 658, www.freedomacademy.co.uk Now in their 10th year, Freedom Academy are back with two brand new summer workshops, run by professional actors, vocal coaches and choreographers.

TROLLS. A week long exciting adventure with all your favourite characters from the hit movie Trolls, with fun-packed mornings of song, dance and crafts. Ages 3- 6, 9am-12noon.

THE GREATEST SHOWMAN. Be part of the Greatest Show! Freedom Academy’s junior and senior performance workshop will be based on the smash hit movie “The Greatest Showman”. Join their fantastic vocal coach and learn all the hit songs from the epic musical and a professional street dance choreographer who will be putting the budding performers through their paces for a magical one off performance at the end of the week. Not only that... a top casting director from the world of TV and film will attend this amazing week to lead an unmissable TV workshop and Q&A. Ages 7 - 16, 9am to 3.30pm.

13-17 August, John Ball Primary School, BLACKHEATH SE3, 020 7255 9120, www.perform.org.uk/summerfun “Let’s have fun” said Peter Pan and that’s exactly what is planned this summer, when your child could be flying away to Neverland on one of Perform’s five day holiday courses.

Set sail for an unforgettable drama, dance and singing adventure. With a sprinkle of fairy dust, Perform’s team of skilled actors, musicians and dancers will work their magic to ensure your child enjoys every minute as they work towards a show-stopping performance to delight family and friends. Ages 4-7, 10am-3pm each day, 25% discount for siblings.

HOLIDAY DROP OFF 9 July - 24 August, DULWICH COLLEGE SPORTS CLUB, Pond Cottages, West Dulwich SE21 7LE, 020 3488 1410, www.holidaydropoff.com Your children will have a blast at HDO’s fantastic multi-sports camps. There’s a whole range of incredible indoor and outdoor sports to keep them happy and active through the school holidays, including swimming pool inflatable sessions and HDO’s amazing inflatable obstacle course. Ages 5-14, 9am-4pm with extended hours available, sibling and full week discounts available.

30 July - 3 August and 6-10 August in DULWICH, 020 8949 4116, www.stagecoach.co.uk/dulwich It’s a summer ‘troll-iday’ with theatrical workshops run by Stagecoach Dulwich - now running for two weeks due to popular demand.

Join Stagecoach’s talented team on the Monday and set about creating a wonderful show in just five days.

Costume, lights and sound are all provided and the players will perform for friends and family in the fabulous Michael Croft Theatre at Alleyn’s School, Dulwich at the end. Ages 8-18, £195 per child, sibling discount available. Ages 4-7 £160.

THE STRINGS CLUB HOLIDAY CAMPS 23 July - 31 August in BROCKLEY & GREENWICH, 0121 296 9204, www.thestringsclub.org The Strings Club’s multi award-winning Ofstedregistered Holiday Camps are perfect for both those who have never played an instrument before and those budding strings players! Each day is different and includes “Learn Together, Play Together” sessions in the morning where your child can learn to play the guitar, violin or ukulele. Each afternoon offers creative workshops, ranging from musical theatre to body percussion to beat boxing.

Ages 4-11, bookable by half day, full day or full week, with wrap-around care available from 8am-5.45pm. Childcare vouchers accepted plus 10% discount for siblings.

Dance classes for both Children and Adults, running 5 days a week (Tues-Sat) Venue: That Place in The Park, Lucas Street, Deptford, SE8 4QH www.danceonbroadway.co.uk Contact Sharon or Scott on 07934383994 or danceonbroadwaytippytoes@yahoo.co.uk

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Summer Holiday Courses

With proper tuition children can learn to touch-type surprisingly quickly and, what’s more, enjoy the whole experience.

■ Improved speed and effectiveness in study.

■ Well presented work increases self-esteem.

■ There are particular benefits for those with dyslexia or dyspraxia.

Courses run in SYDENHAM

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CLUBS & CLASSES FUNKY MONKEY KEYBOARD CLASSES SUMMER WORKSHOPS

SPARK4KIDS SUMMER CODING WORKSHOPS

13-24 August in HERNE HILL, SYDENHAM, BLACKHEATH, STREATHAM and CLAPHAM, 01732 457 100, www.funkymonkey.info Wonderful one and five day workshops for beginners with a different theme depending on the season - the perfect opportunity to try out the keyboard and make music the fun way!

Children learn in small groups how to write and play notes C-G and try some famous tunes using electronic keyboards. It’s a wonderful, relaxed introduction to practical and theoretical music, and with games, quizzes and art activities all based around music thrown in for good measure, you’ll be amazed how much they can learn whilst having fun!

30 July - 3 August and 13-17 August in DULWICH, 020 8090 1444, www.spark4kids.com This summer, Spark4Kids are running holiday workshops that introduce children to computer coding through the medium of games. Available are courses on Minecraft Modding, Unity/C#, Robotics, Games Design, MicroBit, Python, HTML/CSS and JavaScript in a fun, engaging environment. Ages 5-7 years, and 8+. Visit the website for more details.

JUST DIVING HOLIDAY COURSES

23 July - 23 August, LADYWELL FIELDS tennis courts and sports hall, 0773 993 6999, www.southeastlondontennis.com Four day blocks of tennis coaching, games and other team events with a mini tournament on the last day, all run by enthusiastic, professional coaches. Facilities are available for wet-weather activities if necessary. Beginners and improvers welcome.

The camps are split into age groups for 4 - 6 year olds, 7 - 10s and 11 - 15s. From £13 a day/ £45 for each four day week.

24 July - 31 August, CRYSTAL PALACE DIVING, Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, Ledrington Road SE19 2BB, 07776 284 651, www.crystalpalacediving.co.uk Week-long courses for confident swimmers who are new or fairly new to diving and want extra practice. Jump in, swing in harnesses and work towards jumping off the top board. The courses are run by Swim 21 certified professional coaches, under the leadership of World Champion Chris Snode. Ages 6-14, £47.25.

TENNIS-4-KIDS 30 July -2 August in EAST DULWICH, 07877 391005, www.tennis-4-kids.com Rally round for a smashing time learning to play tennis with other children. Tennis-4-Kids run mini sessions giving children lots of fun learning basic to advanced skills.

The friendly coaches run small groups for 3-11 year-olds from beginners to Grandslammers, with all equipment provided. Term time sessions available too.

SOUTH EAST LONDON TENNIS CAMPS

MOVING MATTERS SPORTS AND DRAMA CAMP 23-26 July, 30 July - 2 August, 28-30 August, JULIAN’S PRIMARY SCHOOL, Wolfington Road SE27 0JF, 020 3691 4576, www.moving-matters.org Moving Matters and Nutty’s Children’s Parties have joined forces again to present their unique sports and drama camps this summer. Each week offers various sports, games, drama games, acting, arts & crafts and above all, fun! Ages 6-11, 8.30am3.30pm, £27.50 per day, 10% discount for early bird bookings before 16 July; book on the Parents section at www.moving-matters.org. For more info on Nutty’s Children’s Parties, visit www.nuttyschildrensparties.co.uk.

INTENSIVE TOUCH TYPING School holidays and termtime classes in SYDENHAM, 020 7515 1707, www.yes-tuitionandtraining.co.uk Learn a new skill with a touch typing courses run by YES. Children find them fun, and they work - most children are tapping away proficiently in just ten hours. Sessions can be booked to fit around other holiday commitments so children can progress at their own pace.

HERNE HILL VELODROME 104 Burbage Road, Herne Hill SE24 9HE, www.hernehillvelodrome.com/holidayclub/ How about a cycling holiday club based around mountain biking, track cycling or club racing? All available at Herne Hill velodrome, as well as an advanced holiday club for children who are already track racers. Ages 8-16, 10am-3pm during school holidays, £15 per day includes bike and helmet hire; £10 for those with their own suitable bike.

AND MORE....

SUMMER DRAMA AND MUSIC WORKSHOPS www.infinitejest.co.uk www.slyt.co.uk www.dyodulwich.com www.minidrama.co.uk

HOLIDAY PLAYSCHEMES www.minichampions.co.uk www.supercamps.co.uk www.fitforsport.co.uk www.nimblearts.co.uk www.jagssportsclub.co.uk www.thehive-kids.com www.campbeaumont.co.uk www.languagesforall.org www.ultimateactivity.co.uk www.alleyns.org.uk/holidaycamps

BOOK ONLINE TM

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EDUCATION NEWS The big school run The Daily Mile is catching on fast across the country, and what’s not to like?

Originally pioneered by a Scottish primary school head teacher, the idea is simply that children run a mile each morning; even reluctant starters have found their fun, with startling improvements to their health, happiness and concentration.

The movement has now come together into a Daily Mile Foundation charity, which prime minister Teresa May has praised while calling for more schools to sign up.

The Daily Mile founder Elaine Wyllie says: “... we now have over 700,000 children across 36 countries taking part which means the lives of thousands of children are being transformed for the better. It is my hope that every child in every primary school in the UK will sign up to The Daily Mile!”

Here in southeast London, Lewisham is ahead of the game, with 23 schools signed up at the last count, 9 in Greenwich, 8 in Southwark, and 5 in Lambeth, with numbers increasing steadily. www.thedailymile.co.uk

Air pollution study

Bridging the age gap Nursery school children from Bromley are making weekly trips to a local nursing home to help develop their communication and socialisation skills with a different generation of people.

Staff from Bickley Park School take around a dozen three year olds on regular visits to Crown Meadow Nursing Home where they partake in a range of activities with residents. These include parachute games, reading stories together, colouring, building Lego structures, jigsaws, and throwing and catching balls. The activities help children with their confidence, and the residents love spending time with the youngsters. www.bickleyparkschool.co.uk

Primary school children in polluted areas of London and Luton will have their lung health monitored over a four-year period in a new international study led by Queen Mary University of London, and launched by the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan.

Children’s Health in London & Luton (CHILL) will test whether policies to improve air quality, such as London’s new Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), are associated with improved growth of children’s lungs and reduced chest symptoms.

Children are especially vulnerable to traffic pollution, with evidence showing stunted growth of children’s lungs in polluted areas worldwide, leaving them at risk of lifelong breathing disorders and earlier death. Pollution also triggers asthma, asthma attacks and chest infections.

Researchers are currently recruiting primary schools to take part, offering interactive science lessons and £1000 for taking part. www.qmul.ac.uk/chill

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EDUCATION NEWS

How to seize the summer with Explore Learning The summer holidays are a great time for families to spend time together. However, it can also be a time when children forget some of the skills they have mastered at school.

Miss Evans, a year 6 teacher, explains: “Teachers often find that children begin the new school year having forgotten key skills. It is important that children have opportunities over the summer break to continue to develop their abilities.”

Here are some ideas from Charlotte Gater, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning, on how to seize the summer.

Start a blog Give your child a little note book to jot down ideas while you are out and about, then write up what you’ve done. Take lots of pictures as these are a great tool to help children who find writing tricky.

Encourage them to describe what is happening in the picture to get their creativity flowing.

Send a postcard Let your friends and family know what you’ve been up to. They’re only short so are a wonderful way to get a bit of writing going during the holidays. If your child is reluctant to write, then why not try a postcard app like ‘By Post’? They can take their own pictures to make into postcards and type their message.

Play some games These are great for so many reasons, from developing language to improving memory skills. Needs some new games? Have a scavenger hunt in local charity shops to see who in the family can find the best game.

Tuition To keep your children progressing over the summer, a tuition centre is a great option. Prevent the battle ground of getting children to do work at home and get them along to a tuition centre where there are lots of other children getting involved. Explore Learning offers free taster sessions, so get in touch today by calling 033 01243802.

Read, read and read some more Pop a book in your bag ready for travelling on days out. We will be uploading weekly activities that you can complete with your child to help keep them engaged with what they are reading. Find out more and download your first activity online. www.explorelearning.co.uk/summer

About Explore Learning Explore Learning has been voted number one private tuition centre in the UK. With over 137 centres nationwide, since 2001 they have helped over 200,000 children aged four to 14 to achieve their potential.

They get to know every child as an individual, giving them the space to unlock their imagination and discover the magic of learning.

Explore Learning is offering a saving of £50 to the first 65 members who join between 11 July and 11 August 2018. T&Cs apply www.explorelearning.co.uk/offer

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F A M I LY L I F E

Ania Wilk-Lawton

Summer Photography Top tips from a top photographer

The air is beginning to smell like sun cream which can mean only one thing - the summer is here!

Long days, great light, warm weather all make for great photo opportunities. With that in mind, here are five tips for great summer photography from our friends at Photography for Parents.

1. Don’t just snap, tell a story: Let’s face it, you have a million snaps of your child’s face on your phone already. They’re great but why not try something different? Tell the story by going from ‘scene’ to ‘detail’.

Photograph a wider view of what is happening and where first. Then take a photo focused mostly on your child and what they’re doing.

Finally - capture a small detail, something sensory. Put together - the photos will tell a full story in a way that makes the most sense to how we remember things.

2. Avoid midday sun: I know, not easy, we’re often out an about when the sun is at its hottest, highest and unfortunately least flattering. If you take photos at that time of the day you end up with either deep ‘panda eyes’ shadows or children squinting in the sun. Instead, look for the shadows. Get your child just on the edge of the shade, facing towards the light and you’ll have beautiful, evenly lit photos.

Amanda Vickers, Photography for Parents student

By Ania Wilk-Lawton

3. Action = fun There is something about movement that is capable of conveying joy in a way that static photos just do not. Encourage your kids to jump, run, splash, hop, twirl and dance and you’ll be capturing pure happiness.

You need your camera to be fast for this one so switch to a sports mode and if possible - burst (multishot) option as well - that way you’ll be able to capture multiple shots, giving yourself the best chance of catching that awesome high air kick on the trampoline!

4. Flower power In Britain, we’re not often blessed with a whole rainbow of colours, so definitely make the most of the stunning summer flowers while they last.

Go picking humble daisies, play peek-a-boo from behind rose bushes or go running through lavender or poppy fields. Top tip - if you know you’re heading into a flower field - make sure the kids are wearing colours that compliment, not clash with the flowers.

5. Stay up late There is a time of day photographers call the ‘golden hour’ - about an hour before sunset.

The light takes on this beautiful golden hue, is much gentler on the skin and gives everyone an effortless glow. So if you dare, make the

kids’ bedtime late one day and take them out somewhere where you’ll still be able to see the sky at sunset. It’ll be worth it!

But most of all, make sure you do take the photos, make sure you document the summer, create a visual diary of your days - you’ll be thanking yourself in years to come!

And if you want more tips on how to make the most of your camera and capture your kids at their best - check out our free 5-part Clickstarter course: www.photographyforparents.co.uk/clickstarter

About the author Ania Wilk-Lawton is a photographer and founder of www.photographyforparents.co.uk, teaching parents how to make the most of their cameras and photograph their children beautifully.

READER OFFER: Ania is offering £10 off to Families readers; simply quote FMS10 when you book.

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F A M I LY L I F E

Ania Wilk-Lawton

opening soon!

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F A M I LY H E A LT H NHS in your pocket

Birkbeck’s baby bias Children who cradle dolls on their left show higher social cognitive abilities than those who do not, indicating the importance of the bias in children’s social development.

Researchers at Birkbeck, University of London investigated the phenomenon that humans typically cradle a baby on their left side. Placing the baby’s face in the mother’s left visual field is a bias thought to be important for supporting infant wellbeing and social development.

The study was conducted with 98 reception and year 1 children at a mainstream reception school in south London, who were given a baby doll to cradle.

Children held the doll significantly more often in a left cradling position, and had a significantly higher social ability score compared with those who held the doll on the right. The social ability traits tested included likeliness to follow rules, willingness to share with others and an expressed wish to please their teachers.

The children were also given a pillow to cradle, with three dots marked on to suggest a face, with similar results in that even a hint of a face will trigger the response. By contrast, when given a plain pillow without a suggestion of a face, the children demonstrated neither a left nor right cradling bias.

Birkbeck’s Dr Gillian Forrester, who led the study, said: “Faces are so special to humans that just three dots arranged as a face can change behaviour - an effect already present in childhood. The left visual field is directly connected to the brain’s right hemisphere, which is specialised for processing socialemotional information... the left-cradling bias is an evolutionarily old trait supporting infant wellbeing and social development.”

Do you have a little mini scientist at home?

Birkbeck recruit babies for fun research projects into how under 2s learn and develop. www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Ask NHS is a new app with a built in virtual assistant who can provide medical advice, in confidence, any time of day or night. Speak or type in your symptoms and chatbot Olivia will provide either self care help or if needed, refer you to discuss the symptoms further. You can also find local healthcare services with their opening times.

Lewisham is one of the first boroughs in the country to link the app to all of its GP practices by the end of the year; enabling residents to manage and book appointments directly from their smartphones or tablets.

Simple and free to use, Ask NHS is on iOS and Android download stores. www.sensely.com/asknhs/

Eco-friendly wipes Wet wipes have come under fire for clogging sewers and harming riverbeds and marine life when sent to landfill, to the point where the government plans to ban them by 2025. This is great news; more so that eco-friendly choices are already available.

Childs Farm wipes are completely biodegradable, and made with over 99% natural ingredients including a natural grapefruit scent and zesty organic tea tree.

As with all of the company’s hair and skincare products, Childs Farm wipes are dermatologist and paediatrician approved as suitable for sensitive and also eczema-prone skin. Find them in the baby and child aisle in Boots, rrp £1.49 for a x20 pocket pack and £2.49 for a pack of 64, or buy direct, online. www.childsfarm.com

9 months in just 90 seconds Originally inspired by Mcfly’s Tom Fletcher and his wife Giovanna’s famous YouTube bump video, baby scan specialists Window to the Womb’s Bumpies app allows users to snap, save and share photos of their bump from five to 40 weeks gestation. Once you have five or more ‘Bumpies’, the app will stitch all these images together to make a clever time-lapse video; meaning you’re able to enjoy the magic of your 9-month pregnancy in just 90 seconds, and share with family and friends.

The perfect way to track your bump’s progress, the app is free for iOS and Android, with no ads or in-app purchases. www.windowtothewomb.co.uk

Baby’s chewable friend Teething can be a pain for babies - literally.

Matchstick Monkey teething toys are soft enough for children to chew on and help massage the gums during the eruption process. They’re also a fun introduction to toothbrushes, as it’s important for children to get used to brushing as soon as their first tooth emerges. The teethers are FDA approved, BPA free and dishwasher safe, in a range of colours for £9.99. www.matchstickmonkey.com

Next issue Out 7 September School open days, Clubs & Classes, Halloween events Booking deadline 17 August Email info@familiesse.co.uk or download our ratecard online South East

10 Families South East

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The Bookseller Crow

is a fantastic, volume stuffed shop run by some of the most knowledgeable bookworms in the business.

Call in for the feel of a real bookshop, or if you’re too busy, pick up the phone or head to their website for a fast mailorder service. Justine Crow recommends this month’s best titles.

I have just been to New York. Shall I say that a little bit louder? I HAVE JUST BEEN TO NEW YORK. And not only was the usually frantic Big Apple mellowed by an intense summertime vibe but also - Trumpy notwithstanding - there was a sense of a new mature sensibility. Nooo Yoikers now get to recharge their mobile devices on special street points (no sign of scooter gangs circling like sharks either), in launderettes the washing machines have contactless payment systems (a year since the new quid the one near me in Sarf Lundun still has a handwritten notice saying Old Pounds Only), and on the scrubbed boardwalk beside the freshly raked beach at Coney Island (oh yes, I went there too) they have smart yellow gizmos on posts that dispense SPF30 sun lotion FOR FREE. THE BIG BOOK OF 100 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES by Laura Minter & Tia Williams GMC Publishing rrp £14.99. In this busy, cheery tome the authors here have come up with much fun FOR FREE. Or at the very least, cheaply.

Whatever the weather. It was sunny in Coney Island. Did I mention that? With suggestions such as shadow drawing and leaf rubbing, stick wands and rose petal perfume (my activity de choix when I was six), a day out with a bunch of kids needn’t cost a penny. Sadly it doesn’t feature any recipes for natural suntan lotion but I promise several carefully aimed mud pies suffice. So long as you can get the kid to stand still long enough.

SCIENCE SQUAD by Lisa Burke - DK rrp £10.99. The name of the illustrious doctor, Robert Winston, appears solely on the cover and spine of this excellent primer to the sciences for younger children but it mysteriously downgrades the prof to “consultant” on the inside. Nice work if you can get it. Succinctly explained with big fonts and brilliant facts, weather, forces, engineering, micro-life, technology, measures, evolution, getting paid a shedload for being a mere consultant, it’s all here. Okay, so I made the last one up. I’m not so dozy as to not understand why the publisher put a famous telly phisog on the cover but I still think if they really want to encourage younger children, especially girls, to take up science, they could have found a small corner on the ACTUAL FRONT OF THE BOOK for the writer who (along with the rest of the mainly female production team modestly listed within) really provided the content. It’s not rocket science.

WONDERS OF OUR WORLD by Carron Brown & Stef Murphy - Ivy Kids rrp £10.99. By ‘eck, this IS fun. First, find a torch. Switch it on.

Try it several times. Curse. Go in search of a new battery. Insert. Ah, now it’s working. Find a small child (the torch may help in this regard) and together, read the first page. Then, park the torch beam behind the page to reveal a hidden image. Then, turn to the next page to find out all about it. Genius. I particularly like the ghostly temple at Petra as it appears between the rocks. It’s just like shopping in Upper Norwood at low cloud.. Also available in the series, ‘Dinosaurs’ by Sara Hurst & Lucy Cripps. We’ve got a few of those in SE19. It got me thinking I’d love to do a shine-a-light book about the Crystal Palace and other defunct buildings.

Maybe if I flash my torch LOUDLY the publisher will notice..

SUFFRAGETTE by David Roberts - Two Hoots rrp £18.99. An exhilarating retelling of the fight for emancipation with elegant pictures and lots of written info that gives context to the unshakeable persistence of the women behind the cause. You really can sense the wind in their hitherto patriarchally enforced sails.

NATBOFF! by Andy Stanton - Egmont rrp £6.99. From the professor of silliness himself, with drawings by fellow daft master David Tazzyman, comes a million years of the “hysterical, historical” folk of Laconic Bibber, with hairy cavemen, knights, spacemen, princess and inventors. Please note: no real life History was hurt during the writing of this book.

BOB’S BLUE PERIOD by Marion Deuchars Laurence King rrp £10.99. Poor old sensitive Bob was gutted when his pal, Bat, vanishes and suddenly he can only bear to use the colour blue - an inky hue combining Yves Klein with a Matisse azure. Klatisse? Eat yer heart out Farrow and Ball. But his commissioning customers are none too pleased with the monochrome outcome of their portraits so they take matters in to their own wings. And paws.

GARY’S BANANA DRAMA by Jane Massey - Simon & Schuster rrp £6.99. I do like a primate called Gareth. And he in turn is a little partial to the magnificent bendy yellow fruit that he can see everywhere but that somehow eludes his gorillery grasp. I have an admission. Contrary to dear Gaz, I loathe bananas. But the truth is, I couldn’t have weaned my babies without them.

Mindyou, you can soak a baby’s bib for a decade and you still won’t ever get out those tiny brown seeds.

ERROL’S GARDEN by Gillian Hibbs - Child’s Play rrp £5.99. Next, a bright and cheerful picture book for youngsters from a local author who shows us how easy it is to create a green and useful paradise out of the smallest space, one that everybody can play a part in nurturing.

BOATS ARE BUSY by Sara Gillingham Phaidon rrp £7.95. This is a veritable feisty tugboat of a board book starring all sorts of waterborne vessels from launches to fishing craft, yachts to cruise liners of the kind that ply the Atlantic to New York. Did I tell you I’d just been to New York?

YOUR NO GUILT PREGNANCY PLAN by Rebecca Schiller - Penguin rrp £14.99. Don’t expect a Stoppard style infographical manual depicting a week-by-week fruit bowl of developing foetuses: now it’s an orange, now a grapefruit, woah - a melon? No, this prefers to tackle the less visible emotional business behind the bump, like: yikes what the hell have we done? Covering all the clinical basics including mental health, various potential medical glitches and managing discomfort, this guide tells it how it is. And yes, image or no image, it really does feel the size of a watermelon when it comes to pushing.

LITTLE KIDS, BIG DILEMMAS by Sarah Kuppen - Routledge rrp £14.99. More solid science here with an evidence-based approach to parenting that, for instance, examines the theory behind tantrums or when siblings punch nine shades of claret (a scientific term) out of each other. It refers to published results of breastfeeding vs formula, and the difference between a late talker and one that needs speech therapy. All in all it is a reassuringly balanced guide full of facts that has many myth-busting statistics to hand for countering the inevitable claptrap you will encounter at the school gate and wishful thinking of the internet.

Looking at the clouds as I hang out the washing (wishing I was a laundry consultant and not the one doing the pegging), I muse that just supposing we could rely on a decent summer in the UK, if we had suntan lotion on tap FOR FREE, they’d be queuing on Margate seafront with plastic bottles to siphon off the lot, before flogging it down the pub. This time last week it was 28˚C in New York. Did I tell you I’d been?

The Bookseller Crow, 50 Westow St. Crystal Palace, London SE19 3AF Telephone: 020 8771 8831 email: info@booksellercrow.co.uk Twitter @booksellercrow www.booksellercrow.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

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SUMMER BY THE RIVER

LEEDS CASTLE

What’sOn

MORE

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

T H E G RE AT O U T DO OR S LEWISHAM PEOPLE’S DAY 7 July, MOUNTSFIELD PARK, Stainton Road, Catford SE6 1AN, www.lewisham.gov.uk Lewisham’s longest running community festival is a celebration of music, art, craft and community, with hundreds of performances across seven stages, have-a-go sessions with Milwall Football Club, healthy living displays, craft stalls and great food and drink.

12noon-8pm, entry free.

QUEENSCROFT FAMILY FUN DAY 14 July, Queenscroft Park, Eltham SE9 5EJ Stalls and food, bouncy castle and facepainting, DJ and free sports day activities for children - take a picnic and enjoy your local park. Noon to 5pm, hosted by the Friends of Queenscroft Park as part of Greenwich borough’s PARKSfest.

LAMBETH COUNTRY SHOW 21+22 July, BROCKWELL PARK, Herne Hill SE24 9BJ, www.lambethcountryshow.co.uk The countryside in London - why not? Enjoy one of the biggest free family festivals in the UK. Horticultural shows, sheep dog and owl displays, a mini farm, home grown vegetable and flower competitions, and rural retailers. There’ll be plenty of music too; dub, Afro-beat, disco, folk, ska, soul and pop. Wander through the arts and culture village, and refresh yourself from one of the many food and drink stalls. Noon - 8pm (last entry 6.30pm), admission free.

SYDENHAM HILL WOOD SYDENHAM HILL WOOD and COX’S WALK SE26 6LS, www.wildlondon.org.uk Sydenham Hill Wood is one of the largest remaining fragments of the Great North Wood which once stretched from Deptford to Selhurst. Now managed by the London Wildlife Trust and volunteers, it is a wildlife oasis in urban south London, with the remnants of a Victorian railway line to explore, and many species of plants, birds and bugs.

BAT, MOTH AND OWL PROWL, 6 July. Tawny owls are known to breed in the Wood and the local area and can be heard calling in daylight hours as well as in the deep of night. Join the site warden and volunteers, armed with bat detectors to discover nocturnal wildlife. 9-11pm, meet at the Crescent Wood Road entrance. Free, minimum £2 donation recommended. Not suitable for young children (they should be in bed!).

BUTTERFLY WALK, 22 July. Join a guided walk looking at the range of butterflies that can be found in an urban woodland. Wear suitable footwear for uneven paths and gentle inclines. 2-3.30pm, free; minimum £2 donation recommended. Book first greatnorthwood@wildlondon.org.uk.

BUG DAY, 26 July. If you love bees, butterflies, dragonflies, beetles, bugs and slugs, you will love bug day! Explore the weird and wonderful insects that live in Sydenham Hill Wood. Try pond dipping, search for beetles and creepy crawlies under logs, identify butterflies and bees. 11am-2pm, suitable for families with children aged 5-15, free.

GIFFIN SQUARE GIFFIN SQUARE, 9 Giffin Street, Deptford SE8 4RJ, www.deptfordlounge.org.uk Giffin Square is a public space that is also regularly used for a variety of activities and events. The vibrant and bustling Deptford Market is held across the road every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday on Douglas Way and Deptford High Street. There is an abundance of shops and cafes in the local area.

BELLY OF THE WHALE, 11 August. Circus meets sculpture in this exciting outdoor show. Like surfers on a wild sea, the performers ride a giant semi-sircular see-saw made of wood and steel which creaks and groans as it transforms from a catapult to a gently rocking cradle, a tunnel and a slide, creating an ever-changing land and soundscape. 11am, 12noon and 3pm, all ages, free.

12 Families South East

CONSEQUENCIES, 18 August. An award-winning, playful and acrobatic dance piece exploring the relationship between reality and fiction in our everyday life. This joyful work looks at the consequences of being late, off the mark, and out of step with the rest of the world. 12noon and 3pm, all ages, free.

D-CONSTRUCTION, 18 August. A thrilling an energetic hip-hop dance performance set around a metal scaffold structure that creates a playground, prison and place of expression. Six dancers experience the liberation of the mind through movement. They interact with the metal scaffolding as it cages, protects and frees them at the same time. 1 and 3pm, all ages, free.

EXO, 25 August. Featuring two incredible performers and a driver, EXO is a stunning outdoor spectacle for dancers and JCB diggers, exploring the relationship between man and machine. This riveting show sees performers dancing in an extraordinary partnership with a JCB in a breathtaking display of strength, emotion and beauty.

1 and 3pm, all ages, free.

UP AT THE O2 02 ARENA, Peninsula Square, Greenwich SE10 0DX, www.the02.co.uk/events UP AT THE 02. Dressed in full explorer attire, journey up and over The O2 arena for spectacular views of the city from the viewing platform. Tickets from £30, booking recommended.

SKY HIGH TOURS, until 5 September. On the first Wednesday of each month, Museum of London Docklands hosts will accompany guests to the top of The O2’s specially designed observation deck. Guests will be given a 15-minute talk about the history of London’s Docklands and the local area with the opportunity to take photos against a backdrop of London’s iconic skyline.

Tickets from £35, book online at www.museumoflondon.org.uk/skyhigh.

RIVER STAGE FESTIVAL 2018 13 July - 12 August, ROYAL NATIONAL THEATRE, Upper Ground, Southbank SE1 9PX, www.nationaltheatre.org.uk A free outdoor festival running every weekend this summer, featuring live music, dancing, Djs, family workshops, club nights and theatre, all summer, all for free. Plus summer pop up restaurants, cafes and bars, most with al fresco seating overlooking the vibrant South Bank. See the website for the full line up.

SUMMER BY THE RIVER Until 2 September, LONDON BRIDGE to TOWER BRIDGE SE1, www.londonbridgecity.co.uk/events With stunning views of Tower Bridge, The Tower of London and the iconic City skyline, Summer by the River is the perfect place to celebrate all things summer. This year the site will be transformed to take on a vibrant English country garden theme.

With outdoor cinema and theatre, big screen summer sports (including Wimbledon, Ascot and the cricket), live comedy and music performances, fun family days, fitness classes and a host of events to let your hair down on a Friday, Summer by the River will be the ultimate free to enter London experience this summer. See the website for the full line up.

HALL PLACE AND GARDENS Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQ, 01322 526574, www.hallplace.org.uk Hall Place is a stunning Tudor house with magnificent gardens sitting on the banks of the River Cray in Bexley. Admission free for under 5s, £5 children, £10 adults.

FAIRY SCHOOL AT FAIRY HALL, 6-7, 13-15 and 20-23 August.

Dress up and enter a house of enchantment this summer as Hall Place is transformed into Fairy School at Fairy Hall. Step into a world of wonder and excitement, dance in the majestic Great Hall and take refreshments in Elf Garden. Fairy teachers will have you laughing with stories and amaze you with fairy crafts to take home.

Two hour sessions, £10 per child, accompanying adults free, book first on 01322 621238.

DRUSILLAS PARK

LEEDS CASTLE LEEDS CASTLE, near Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL, 01622 767866, www.leeds-castle.com Visitors never forget their first breathtaking vision of Leeds Castle in Kent. With nine centuries of history, fun daily attractions and 500 acres of beautiful Kentish parkland, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy. Visit this summer to see the blossoming formal gardens, find your way through the yew-tree maze, enjoy free flying falconry displays, spectacular events and many more all-year-round attractions.

Summer at the Castle sees fun events throughout July and August. Don’t miss the magnificent 40th Anniversary of the Leeds Castle Classical Concert on 14 July; one of the most memorable summer evenings in the Kent events calendar. Bring a picnic and be entertained by field cannons, fireworks and much-loved music!

From the Open-Air Theatre and Cinema shows, to the many more wonderful attractions, Leeds Castle has everything you need for a perfect summer’s day out. Annual tickets £24.90 for adults; £21.90 for seniors and visitors with disabilities (carer goes free); under 4s free, £16.90 for children. Tickets are valid for 12 months so you can pay once and visit all year round.

ALICE IN WONDERLAND 21 July - 27 August, Royal Botanic Gardens, KEW, Richmond TW9 3AE, www.theatreonkew.co.uk Lewis Carroll’s classic story is cleverly lifted from the page and beautifully brought to life in Glenn Elston’s highly acclaimed outdoor production. Join Alice on her amazing journey through Wonderland and experience an adventure like no other.

Life is suddenly turned upside down for Alice, as she tumbles down the rabbit hole and lands in the magical world of Wonderland. Bump into the skittish, constantly late White Rabbit, sing along with the Dodo and other birds in the Caucaus race and meet the pepper-obsessed Duchess and her extremely crazy cook. The Cheshire Cat will leave you with a grin and you can’t fail to miss Humpty Dumpty on his way to meet Tweedledum and Tweedledee as they tell the tale of the Walrus and the Carpenter.

As a magnificent finale, join the Queen of Hearts and her parade of cards. This is where everyone, both young and a perhaps a little bit older, can be part of the fun.

FULHAM PALACE Bishop's Avenue, Fulham SW6 6EA, 020 7736 3233, www.fulhampalace.org The Museum of Fulham Palace charts the long history of the palace site, from Prehistoric times and Roman settlement, through Medieval, Tudor, Georgian and Victorian bishops to the present day. The museum collection includes paintings, archaeology and artefacts. Open noon-4pm Sundays, 12.30-3.30pm Mondays to Thursdays, admission free.

SUMMER EXPLORERS, Summer Mondays and Tuesdays (check the website for details). Fun drop-in activities aimed at families with 2-7 year-olds, providing the perfect opportunity for you and your children to learn together in a magical environment.

HANDS-ON ARCHAEOLOGY, 22 July. Get up close and personal with archaeology at Fulham Palace, and learn more about the rich and varied history of this ancient site. 1-3pm

KENT LIFE HERITAGE FARM PARK Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3AU, 01622 763936, www.kentlife.org.uk The homes and lifestyles of Kent’s rural past are brought to life through recreated cottages and farm buildings, set in a 28-acre site that is also home to traditional farm animals, owls, a Big Top arena, indoor and outdoor play areas and a programme of seasonal activities. Open from 10am daily, admission £9.95 adults, £8.25 children, £32.95 family of four.

TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC, 14+15 July. A weekend of teddy bear fun for families and cuddly toys alike. Every child who brings their beloved companion will receive a certificate, while all visitors can meet Kent Life’s Teddy, listen to a story, watch Sooty’s show and have the chance to say hello to him afterwards.

SUMMER HOLIDAY FUN, 25 July - 2 September. On top of Kent Life’s programme of activities, there will also be plenty of entertaining shows in the Big Top - all included in the admission price. Complete the Explorer Card in the Summer Holiday Activity Pack and you will be rewarded with a free Firework Spectacular ticket!

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MONSTROUS KIDS’ FESTIVAL

HEVER CASTLE

HAMPTON COURT

KENT LIFE AT THE SEASIDE - UNDER THE SEA, 25 July 12 August. Take the plunge by visiting the ocean underworld, with themed activities including the chance to make your very own mermaid. There will also be plenty of other games, races and crafts to keep children of all ages entertained throughout the school holidays.

KENT LIFE AT THE SEASIDE - BY THE SEA, 13 August 2 September. Pirates and princesses will arrive at the attraction for the second half of the summer break, with many beach-themed experiences on offer. Build a sandcastle, design your own goblet, or take a traditional donkey ride.

ICE CREAM FESTIVAL, 27 August. Cool down on Bank Holiday Monday and enjoy treats from ice cream vendors, chocolatiers and sweet stalls. Elsewhere, visit the face painter and take part in the animal activities.

HORNIMANS

PAW PATROL, various Tuesdays and Thursdays. The heroic pups will be appearing in the Events Arena at intervals throughout the summer. You’d be barking mad to miss them.

HELLO KITTY, Wednesdays 24 July to 29 August. Visit Kitty in her beautiful themed house and have a souvenir photo taken with the cutest girl herself. Meet and greet opportunities will operate at intervals throughout the day.

PEPPA PIG & GEORGE, 14 August. Join in the excitement and snorts of laughter as Peppa Pig embarks on a Drusillas Park adventure, with her brother George. The cheeky pair will be making appearances at various intervals throughout the day.

SPIDER MAN, 30 August. The crime-fighting crusader will be launching his web-slinging fun and Super Hero antics during meet and greet appearances throughout the day.

DRUSILLAS PARK Alfriston, East Sussex BN26 5QS, 01323 874100, www.drusillas.co.uk Widely regarded as the best small zoo in the country, Drusillas has an animal and child friendly environment where the focus is always on fun finding out. Animals are only half the fun; with Go Wild!, Get Wet!, Go Safari!, Amazon Adventure, Eden’s Eye maze and Hello Kitty Secret Garden offering a paradise for anyone wanting a theme park experience. Open 10am - 5pm during the summer.

CREEPY CRAWLIES WEEKEND, 21+22 July. The Discovery Centre will be swarming with weird insects, slimy molluscs and scary spiders and experts from the British Tarantula Society will be available to answer your questions. 11am-4pm.

KNIGHTS AND PRINCESSES SCHOOL AT HEVER CASTLE 21 July - 27 August, HEVER CASTLE & GARDENS, Hever, Kent TN8 7NG, 01732 865224, www.hevercastle.co.uk Experience what it was like to grow up and serve in a royal household in medieval times at Hever Castle this summer.

Children are encouraged to come in costume to really get into the spirit of their training session, which includes preparing for battle, the correct way to curtsey, have a go jousting activities, and a certificate to take home. Ages 6-12, free sessions included in Hever admission cost; families £39.90.

HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU, www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace THE MAGIC GARDEN. Discover something new around every twist and turn in an immersive world populated by mythical beasts, including a 25m dragon! Take the family to become Tudor Knights, besiege the battlements, storm the Tiltyard Towers and explore a mysterious secret grotto. Included in palace admission.

ON BLACKHEATH 2018 8+9 September , BLACKHEATH SE3, www.onblackheath.com On Blackheath is the perfect festival for unwinding and putting a smile on your face; showcasing the best in local and international artists, serving up amazing food, and offering a world of fun for all ages.

This year’s musical line up includes Squeeze, Paloma Faith, Billy Bragg, The Divine Comedy, De La Soul, Corine Bailey Rae and the Lightning Seeds. Plus a Family Playground filled with adventures, stories and craft activities for children. Open noon to 10.30pm Saturday, to 10pm Sunday, day and weekend tickets available online.

CATFORD STREET FOOD MARKET Last Sunday of each month, CATFORD BROADWAY SE6, www.catfordfoodmarket.com Some of southeast London’s most exciting food entrepreneurs have set up stall to offer locally made international street food, including sourdough pizza, Japanese delicacies, Caribbean fayre, hand-crafted pasta, vegan bakes, cakes and breads, gin and pale ale. Non-food treats include work by local Catford artists and designers, multicultural children’s books, music, arts and crafts workshops and community events. Open 10am-4pm.

Tennis-4-Kids New Logo with Baseball Cap.pdf 1 4/2/2013 5:05:13 PM

Tennis-4-Kids New Logo with Baseball Cap.pdf 1 4/2/2013 5:05:13 PM

lasses hool dance c funky presc oys d b an irls for g

Tiny Tots age 2.5-3

Little Aces Junior Champs Grand Slammers age 3-4

age 5-7

age 8-11

fun filled tennis games and activities indoors with sponge balls and mini tennis rackets classes held across SE London for more information and to book call Anne-Marie : 07973 982790 email: info@diddidance.com

FREE introductory session phone

07877 391005

www.tennis-4-kids.com email: gordon@tennis-4-kids.com

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EDWARD BAWDEN RETROSPECTIVE

UGLY BUG SAFARI

MOTHER BEAR

SPICE GIRLS EXHIBITION

MoreWhat’sOn M US EU M S & EV E NT S THE HORNIMAN MUSEUM HORNIMAN MUSEUM and gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ, 020 8699 1872, www.horniman.ac.uk Museum open 10.30am-5.30pm daily, admission free, charges apply for special exhibitions and the aquarium. The museum’s music gallery and hands-on base, regular weekend and holiday drop-ins and workshops allow family visitors to explore the collection through arts and crafts, music, stories and hands-on sessions. All this within 16 acres of beautiful green space which has the oldest nature trail in London, an animal corner, a butterfly house, and a Farmers’ Market every Saturday morning.

FESTIVAL OF DANCE, 8 July. Bring all the family for a day of exciting dance and music from around the world, and discover unique acts across the beautiful Gardens. Co-programmed in partnership with Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance.

10.30am-5pm, free.

SUMMER WELLY WALK, 28 July. Put on your wellies and follow the Horniman Nature Trail to explore the animals, insects and plants that thrive there in summer. Have a go at sweep-netting, tree-beating and identifying what you discover. 1.45-3.30pm, suitable for children aged 5+. Children £3, adults £5.

BANDSTAND CONCERTS, 5, 19 and 26 August. Put on your dancing shoes for upbeat concerts guaranteed to make you move, with a different combo each week. Enjoy an eclectic mix of Afro-Latin styles, reggae, Afrobeat and funky Ethojazz from nine-piece bands and soulful artists. 3-5pm, free.

COLOUR: THE RAINBOW REVEALED, until 28 October. Be dazzled by prisms showing how colours are made, peer through a giant human eyeball to find out how we see colour and discover how animals use colour to attract and hide.

BUTTERFLY HOUSE. Get up close with hundreds of beautiful butterflies in a tropical indoor garden. The specially-planted habitat is the perfect place to experience free-flying butterflies and discover amazing facts about the life-cycle and behaviour of these fascinating creatures. Adults £6, children £6, families £15.

MONSTROUS KIDS’ FESTIVAL 29 July, PRINTWORKS, Surrey Quays Road SE16 7PJ, 0796 646 0434, www.monstrouscreations.co.uk Monstrous is a one day festival experience aimed at families with children between the ages of 4 - 14yrs. Expect a line-up jam packed with live performances, amazing experiences, exciting attractions and wonderful adventures - all resulting in a fantastic family day out! Chelsea FC Foundation team will be teaching essential football skills in the Soccer School Zone; there’ll be a 272m long inflatable obstacle course; console games; a fairy tale land filled with princes, princesses, unicorns and singalong booths; Monty’s Monstrous Disco; Punch & Judy, a magical funfair, and a sensory play garden for babies. 9am-7pm, tickets £24.50 covers access to the entire festival.

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY, Gallery Road, Dulwich Village SE21 7AD, 020 8693 5254, www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk Open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Fridays, from 11am weekends and bank holidays. Pick up a free family trail, and look out for the Art Play family workshops on the first and last Sunday of each month.

Admission free for accompanied children, £8 adults. Listed activities free for families with a gallery ticket or £3 per child.

EDWARD BAWDEN RETROSPECTIVE, until 9 September.

Graphic designer, book illustrator and printmaker Edward Bawden RA SBE (1903-89), is best known today for his monumental linocuts and for the witty designs he made for companies like Shell and Fortnum & Mason. The exhibition features 170 works, exploring themes such as fantasy and animals, the world ‘off duty’, and gardens and plants. The exhibition will also shine a spotlight on Bawden’s lifelong love of storytelling, with works that are both colourful and inventive, such as linocuts from his much-loved series, Aesop’s Fables alongside fanciful illustrated books created

by Bawden for his children. Tickets £16.50 adults, under 18s and Gallery Friends free.

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DULWICH PAVILION 2019, until 22 July. View the free display and have your say on the six shortlisted designs for the second Dulwich Pavilion; a temporary outdoor structure which will be open to the public next summer. Models and visualisations by the six emerging architecture practices can be seen in the Gallery’s glass walkway in full view of Sir John Soane’s architectural masterpiece.

Visitors’ votes will be combined with the panel’s votes to select the winning design.

DOWN HOUSE - HOME OF CHARLES DARWIN DOWN HOUSE, Luxted Road, Downe, Kent BR6 7JT, www.english-heritage.org.uk/downhouse MEET THE DARWINS, 24-28 July. Join Charles and Emma Darwin and find out about their life and work in Victorian England.

Hear tales of Alice in Wonderland as told to the Darwin children, and make crafts to take home. 11am, 12noon, 1.30, 2.30 and 3.30pm. Family tickets £31.20, English Heritage members free.

FANTASTIC FOSSILS, 31 July - 4 August. Step back to the 1800s and join palaeontologist Dorothea Bate in uncovering the secrets and importance of archaeology, and make your own fossil to take home. 11am, 12noon, 1.30, 2.30 and 3.30pm. Family tickets £31.20, English Heritage members free.

GROWING UP AT DOWN, 21-25 August. Join Darwin’s daughter Etty Darwin for some good old fashion fun. Discover the stories of the children at Down House - from indoor cricket to assisting with scientific experiments, share in the chronicles of this much loved family home. 11am, 12noon, 1.30, 2.30 and 3.30pm. Family tickets £31.20, English Heritage members free.

BUTLER SCHOOL, 28 August - 1 September. Being the butler of a country house is no easy job - do you think you’ve got what it takes? Make sure your shoes are polished, your clothes are immaculate and you’re standing up straight. Meet the Darwin’s very own butler Joseph Parslow and learn about the etiquette of a Victorian house, from dressing a table to folding a napkin. 11am, 12noon, 1.30, 2.30 and 3.30pm. Family tickets £31.20, English Heritage members free.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB, www.ltmuseum.co.uk THE GREAT SUMMER OF ENGINEERING, 21 July - 3 September. Delve into the fascinating world of engineering during six weeks of STEM related interactive challenges, storytelling and demonstrations at the London Transport Museum this summer.

Each week a new transport challenge will explore themes such as steam, electricity and design. Ages 3-12, children go free and adult admission tickets allow unlimited daytime entry to the Museum for a whole year.

ELTHAM PALACE & GARDENS Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE, www.english-heritage.org.uk/eltham DISCOVERIES AND INVENTIONS, 23 - 27 July. Are you a budding Darwin or an up-and-coming Brunel? Get your thinking caps on and your brains buzzing at Eltham Palace. Take a trip through history’s most exciting inventions from the totally practical to the downright wacky - can you design something to add to the record books? 11am-5pm, adults £15, children and English Heritage members free.

GLOBETROTTERS SAFARI, 30 July - 3 August. Explore the palace as you search for the exotic animals (and pets!) that the Courtaulds loved. We know they loved their Madagascan pet lemur Mah-Jongg, but what other exotic animals did they see during their exciting world travel? 11am-5pm, adults £15, children and English Heritage members free.

UGLY BUG SAFARI, 6-10 August. Grab a magnifying glass and join the big hunt for some mini beasts. Peer into the parterre, unearth insects near the moat and encounter gruesome bugs near the great hall. Discover the secret life of our creepy friends and create your own to take home. 11am-5pm, adults £15, children £9, families £39.

WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT

TRAIN THE TROOPS, 13-17 August. Discover Eltham’s wartime past with this hands on experience of soldiers on the front line.

Become a Home Front hero and be put through your paces at Eltham Palace. Fall into step and polish your shoes or it’ll be basic rations for you. 11am-5pm, adults £15, children £9, families £39.

KNIGHTS AND PRINCESSES, 20-24 August. Polish your armour and dust off your tiara, it’s time to learn the tools of the trade as you become a knight or princess for the day. You’re cordially invited to Framlingham Castle where courtly experts will teach you skills in heroic chivalry and eloquent etiquette - you’d be a jabbering jester to miss it! 11am-5pm, adults £15, children £9, families £39.

HEROES AND VILLAINS, 28-31 August. Deadly enemies and bitter battles, choose your side and start your training. Pick up your weapon to advance in the battle drill and hear astonishing tales of your favourite rogues and brave heroes. 11am-5pm, adults £15, children £9, families £39.

‘MOTHER BEAR’ FAMILY DAY 4 August, BONUS PASTOR COLLEGE, Winlanton Road, Bromley BR1 5PZ, www.motherbear.xyz A day-long event for ‘Mother Bears’, their cubs, family and friends.

Browse eight themed zones for inspiring talks, workshops, classes, demonstrations and exhibitors covering parenthood, health, fitness, work-life balance, education and more - everything you need for pre-natal to pre-school. A full and varied programme throughout the day will inform parents and entertain children.

11am-5pm, single tickets £3, families £10. The event is organised

by The Brun Bear Foundation, a registered charity that supports a mix of community, animal welfare and medical research projects, www.brunbearfoundation.uk.

THE SPICE GIRLS EXHIBITION 28 July - 20 August, BUSINESS DESIGN CENTRE, Angel Islington N1 0QH, www.spicegirls-exhibition.com Music and fashion fans alike can unleash their inner Spice Girl this summer. A celebration of, and tribute to, the biggest girl-group of all time, the exhibition showcases thousands of items of memorabilia, alongside hundreds of the Fab Five’s iconic stage costumes, some of which have not been publicly displayed since they were first worn by the girlband in the 90s. Alongside merchandise from around the globe, visitors will learn just how significantly and successfully the Spice Girls went from band to brand on a scale that truly took over the world. Under 12s free, tickets from £10.

THE TOWER OF LONDON St KATHARINE’S & WAPPING, EC3N 4AB, www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london ARMOURY IN ACTION, throughout July and August. A family friendly exhibition revealing the fascinating story of arms and the armoury at the Tower. From shooting arrows and assembling firearms to brandishing swords, a thousand years of history at the Tower is brought to life in this exciting, hands-on experience.

GO MEDIEVAL, 4-6 August. Step into 1445 as England celebrates the arrival of a new Queen, Margaret of Anjou. At the heart of the festivities are the fierce medieval knights who go head to head in sword fighting combat. Fire a real crossbowand get a closer look at the impressive swords used by the heroic knights.

ARREST AND THE LAST DAYS OF ANNE BOLEYN, until 28 August. Arrest and Last Days of Anne Boleyn. Follow the dramatic story of Anne Boleyn, second wife of King Henry VIII, through her arrest, imprisonment, trial and execution at the Tower in this new play. From hope to hopelessness, watch Anne’s journey unfold in a live performance which will be staged twice per day.

ACTIVITY TRAILS, daily. Explore the home of the Queen’s Crown Jewels and the rooms of Edward 1 with a family trail, packed with fun quizzes, activities, facts and illustrations.

ROYAL BEASTS, daily. Discover the fascinating stories of the many exotic animals kept at the Tower of London and explore how they lived in the Royal Menagerie.

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THE GARDEN MUSEUM Lambeth Palace Road SE1 7LB, 020 7401 8865, www.gardenmuseum.org.uk FLOWER FAIRIES, BOTANICAL MAGIC, 8 August 30 September. Since they first crept out from behind leaves and flowers in 1918 for the Elves and Fairies postcards, Cicely Mary Barker’s Flower Fairies have been enchanting and delighting children and adults alike. A selection of these charming characters will be on display in an exhibition which celebrates the centenary of the earliest publication of Cicely Mary Barker’s first fairy illustrations. See original illustrations for more than 40 of her Flower Fairies designs, drawing extensively from the Warne Archive, Penguin Random House UK. There will also be previously unseen sketchbooks and drawings together with her research materials. The exhibition will be held alongside a number of family friendly events, including cookery workshops which explore the use of edible flowers in food and garden workshops which will allow children to make fairy gardens. Open Sunday to Friday 10.30am-5pm, Saturday 10.30am-4pm, closed first Monday of the month, tickets £10, concs available.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, Cromwell Road SW7 5BD, 020 7942 5000, www.nhm.ac.uk Dinosaurs, volcanoes, precious gems and creepy crawlies discover the diversity of the natural world through the nation’s finest collection of natural history specimens. Fascinating exhibitions display up to 70 million plants, animals, fossils, rocks and minerals, with a hands-on education centre where you can meet real scientists at work. Museum open 10am-5.50pm, admission free.

INVESTIGATE FOR FAMILIES, every weekend. Get a feel for how scientists work by having a go yourself. Explore hundreds of real nature specimens that form the evidence Museum scientists use in their daily work. Drop-in, ages 3-11, 11am-5pm.

LIFE IN THE DARK, 13 July - 6 January 2019. From the dead of night, to the darkest caves and into the deepest oceans, there is undiscovered life in the dark. Explore the extraordinary diversity of

animals that survive and thrive in a world without light in a familyfriendly exhibition that delves into the darkest corners of earth to reveal a vibrant, buzzing ecosystem as rich and diverse as any fuelled by sunlight. Under 16s admission free, adults £14 includes a donation.

DINO SNORES, once a month on Saturdays. Discover what really happens at the museum when the staff and visitors have gone home. Children aged 7-11 years, from 7pm to 9.50am the following day. Tickets £60.

CENTURY OF THE CHILD: NORDIC DESIGN FOR CHILDREN 1900 TO TODAY, until 2 September. Explore the cultural exchange of ideas between the Nordic countries and Britain and the worldwide impact of child centred design. The exhibition features iconic designs from BRIO to LEGO, Marimekko and the Moomins, alongside several ‘Nordic Icons’ including Arne Jacobsen, IKEA, Alvar Aalto, BabyBjörn and Tetra Pak. In celebration of children’s creative freedom, there is a host of Nordic inspired interactives for families to explore and enjoy.

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM

National Maritime Museum, Queen’s House, Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark, Greenwich SE10, 020 8858 4422, www.rmg.co.uk Royal Museums Greenwich holds the world’s largest maritime collection. It is housed in historic buildings forming part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site and incorporates the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the 17th-century Queen’s House, and Cutty Sark. The Museums works to illustrate for everyone the importance of the sea, ships, time and the stars and their relationship with people, and is also a major centre of education and research. On Saturdays and Sundays free performances and workshops entertain family visitors, while on Tuesdays preschoolers can make music and play with parents and carers.

Open 10am-5pm daily. General admission is free; some buildings, special exhibitions and events have an admission fee.

V&A MUSEUM, Cromwell Road SW7 2RL, 020 7942 2000, www.vam.ac.uk/families Pick up a family trail from the Information Desk and explore the museum through puzzles, drawing and observation. Suitable for 7-12 year-olds. There are also hundreds of exciting hands-on exhibits containing plenty to touch and try out. Museum open 10am-5.45pm daily, admission free.

BACK-PACKS, Saturdays. Pick up a back pack and explore the museum with fantastic jigsaws, stories, puzzles and games.

10.30am-5pm.

FRIDA KAHLO: MAKING HERSELF UP, until 4 November.

Experience a fresh perspective on Kahlo’s compelling life story through her most intimate personal belongings. This exhibition will present an extraordinary collection of personal artefacts and clothing belonging to the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Locked away for 50 years after her death, this collection has never before been exhibited outside Mexico. Tickets £15.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200, www.museumofchildhood.org.uk This gem of a museum houses dolls, dolls’ houses, puppets, teddy bears, games, childcare, clothing, furniture and art and photography. Everyday drop-in activities include storytelling, arts and crafts, and trails. There’s dressing-up, role play and an under 3’s area, an indoor sandpit, and regular special events. Open 10am-5.45pm daily, admission free.

T H E AT RE SH O WS WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT

THE MUPPETS TAKE THE O2

Until 2 September, SHAFTSBURY THEATRE, 210 Shaftsbury Avenue WC2H 8DP, 0330 333 4812, www.bearhuntlive.com The smash-hit production of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt returns vividly and noisily to the West End in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join the intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on a quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick, oozy, squelchy mud!

Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure. The production is adapted for the stage from the modern classic written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. Ages 3+, tickets from £15.60.

13 + 14 July, 02 ARENA, Peninsula Square, Greenwich SE10 0DX, www.the02.co.uk/events With a cast of characters headlined by the inimitable, yet exasperating Miss Piggy, the hilarious Fozzie Bear, the inexplicable Great Gonzo and the extremely-loud Animal, The Muppets remain as beloved and befuddling entertaining as ever. Following a hugely successful trio of sell-out shows at the Hollywood Bowl last year, this exclusive European show is the first time The Muppets have ever performed their full live extravaganza outside of the USA.

SHAKESPEARE’S TELLING TALES 27-29 July, SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE, 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside SE1 9DT, 020 7401 9919, www.shakespearesglobe.com The Globe is bringing back its annual storytelling festival, featuring a host of Shakespeare characters alongside storybook favourites.

Performers, poets, musicians and storytellers will bring productions, talks and workshops to family audiences throughout the three days - see the website for details and bookings.

SOUNDS AND SORCERY: DISNEY ‘FANTASIA’ 3 July - 30 September, THE VAULTS, Leake Street SE1 7NN, 020 7401 9603, www.soundsandsorcery.com A family-friendly experience taking audience members on an interactive journey through The Vaults beneath Waterloo. Wearing individual headphones, experience the music of Disney Fantasia while surrounded by theatrically designed installations, performances and interactions. Tickets from £30.

GREENWICH THEATRE OLD VIC THEATRE The Cut, Waterloo SE1 8NB, 0844 871 7628, www.oldvictheatre.com A MONSTER CALLS, 7 July - 25 August. Thirteen-year-old Conor and his mum have managed just fine since his dad moved to America. But now his mum’s very sick and she’s not getting any better; his grandmother won’t stop interfering and the kids at school won’t look him in the eye. This is a staging of Patrick Ness’s bestselling novel which tells the tale of a boy coming to terms with his mother’s cancer, appealing to children and adults alike with its dazzling insight into love, loss and healing. Ages 10+.

ALBANY THEATRE THE ALBANY, Douglas Way, Deptford SE8 4AG, 020 8692 4446, www.thealbany.org.uk JUDE STARBEAM, 28 July. When her spaceship crashes on a desolate planet, Jude Starbeam finds herself stranded in a far corner of the galaxy. At night she looks up to the stars and planets who sing songs to her. This work-in-progress performance uses the metaphor of being lost in space to speak about the experiences of the family of a girl who acquires a brain injury in an accident using puppetry, music and song. 3pm, ages 8+, free but ticketed.

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GREENWICH THEATRE, Crooms Hill SE10 8ES, 020 8858 7755, www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk THE JUNGLE BOOK, 15 -26 August. When the young Mowgli appears in the jungle, and Baloo the bear, Bagheera the panther and Akela the wolf surround him to protect him from the attack of the tiger Shere Khan, none of them can possibly anticipate the series of adventures that lies ahead. The perfect summer treat for all the family, brings Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale to the stage with thrilling percussion, vibrant puppetry and Kipling’s unforgettable, larger-than-life characters. Tickets from £9.75.

CHURCHILL THEATRE High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA, 020 3285 6000, www.churchilltheatre.co.uk BABY BROADWAY, 6 July. Sing and dance along to songs from Motown, My Fair Lady, The Lion King, Billy Elliot, Frozen and many more plus there will be bubbles, puppetry and dance moves in a family concert performed by West End singers. Adult tickets £11.50, accompanied children free.

MILKSHAKE LIVE!, 19 August. This all singing, all dancing, musical masterpiece will take audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairy tales, starring two Milkshake! Presenters and favourites including Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Fireman Sam, Wissper and more. Tickets £16 children, £18 adults.

ROYAL MUSEUMS GREENWICH

THE BRITISH MUSEUM BRITISH MUSEUM, Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG, 020 7323 8181, www.britishmuseum.org The British Museum was founded in 1753, the first national public museum in the world. Each year nearly 6 million visitors pour through the doors to see the museum’s collection of ancient and historical artefacts including the ever-popular Egyptian mummies, or to take in the latest block-buster exhibition. Open 10am-5.30pm daily, admission free, charge for some exhibitions.

DIGITAL DISCOVERY CENTRE, weekends. Learn, discover and create in the Museum’s digital centre. Free activities and workshops using the latest Samsung digital equipment, enabling children to bring the world’s history and cultures to life through advanced technology.

THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD, 25-28 August. One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warning and tiptoes out into the snow. After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist; does he? Tall Stories bring Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s award-winning sequel to life in this magical, musical adaptation, with songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups.

SOUTHBANK SOUTHBANK CENTRE, Belvedere Road SE1 8XX, 0844 847 9944, www.southbankcentre.co.uk UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL, until 30 September. An amazing line-up of entertainment for all ages, now in its tenth year. Family highlights include Circus Abyssinia, SOAP, Arr We There Yet, Children Are Stinky, Aliens Love Underpants, Metta’s Little Mermaid, Monski Mouse, plus comedy and variety from Dick & Dom. See www.underbellyfestival.com for the full line up.

RUG RHYMES, until 13 July. Join the National Poetry Library puppets, Federico and Firebird, on their poem rug to find out what rhymes with rug in a short session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories for the very young. For under 5s and their carers. Free.

DRAGON BABIES - GAMELAN, until 16 July. Experience the sounds of Southbank Centre’s gamelan (Javanese orchestra) through singing, movement and play. Let your Dragon Babies shake, rattle and gong in a music-making session for toddlers.

Ages 3-5 with carers, £5.

SEA CREATURES 20 July - 30 August, RHS LAWRENCE HALL, Greycoat Street SW1P 2QD, www.seacreaturestour.com Sea Creatures: Life Beneath The Ocean is a unique, awe-inspiring, eye-opening insight into the science and anatomy of sea creatures. This immersive and interactive experience is packed with 50 full body, real specimens, 150 body parts and organs and an interactive digital show. Sea Creatures invites family audiences to explore and truly understand marine life, conserving marine species and raise awareness of marine conservation. Family tickets from £52.

LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE, 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross Street N1 2DN, 020 7226 1787, www.littleangeltheatre.com SLEEPING BEAUTY IN THE WOOD, until 29 July. This adaptation of the story of Briar Rose by the Brothers Grimm conjures a dreamlike fantasy of palaces and forests, ogres and fairies, princes and babes. It tells the story of a King and Queen desperate for a child, and a fairy who grants their wish. But when the fairy is not invited to baby Rose’s christening, she casts a different kind of spell - on her 16th birthday, the young princess will prick her finger and everyone in the kingdom will fall asleep for 100 years. Only the arrival of a prince from the Far East brings hope of an awakening. This bold production spins puppets, projections, automata and live music to weave an irresistible magic. Ages 4-9, tickets £11.50 children, £13.50 adults.

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Greenwich Office 8th Floor, 6 Mitre Passage, Greenwich, London, SE10 0ER

16 Families South East

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