Families London South West Jul-Aug 2011 by Families Magazine

July/Aug 2011

Issue No. 208 ISSN 1354-9553 Est. 1990

SouthWest FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

SIZZLING SUMMER? outside, may be —who knows? But inside the mag there’s lots to read and do…

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Families SW – useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in SW London

'Come & paint in our garden! Fun pottery painting for all ages' Capture your Baby’s Footprints forever Parties for Birthday, Hen, Office & any get together Personalise Gifts, Commissions, Gift Vouchers Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-6pm 85 Nightingale Lane, Wandsworth SW12 8NX 020 8772 8702 www.smartypaints.co.uk

July/August 2011

EXCLUSIVELY ON FamiliesOnline.co.uk

Contents

• Arranging suitable childcare during the school holidays by Best Bear Childcare • Lack of iodine affects intelligence, hair and skin health, hormone related issues and depression by Nutritionist Penny Crowther. • 215 million children under 18 years of age engage in child labour, ChildHope reports

04-06

Local news & information

Musings of a desperate parent

• Daily family deals site launched by Apprentice winner, check out LikeBees.com

seeking common sense when it comes to wireless technologies

• Ten facts about rapeseed oil

JULY/AUGUST 2011

Calling all adventurers

4-6

• Family rituals bring a sense of togetherness by The Parent Practice

10-11

Peeping at postcodes Maggie researches the best things and places in SW4/SW11

Camps, workshops and classes in South West London

SouthWest Families® South West

All content ©Families 2011

www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 Fax: 020 8696 9679 Editorial: editor@familiesmagazine.co.uk News: news@familiesmagazine.co.uk Adverts/artwork: adverts@familiesmagazine.co.uk Personal ads: personalads@familiesmagazine.co.uk Events, diary dates, whats on info: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources — meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced. Inks are soya-based, which can be re-cycled. Picture credit to MarksandSpencer.com

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July/August 2011

Clapham Picture House

Neil’s foodie page

10-11

The Admiral Codrington reviewed and fruit lollies tried and tested

18-19

Activities and events along the river Thames

20-21

Baby page

Next issue: September 2011 Deadline: early July • “Families® South West” heads a group of magazines. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. • There are over 30 UK local editions with a print run of more than 600,000 copies in all, in which you can advertise too. Oh, and we have a big website… familiesonline.co.uk • MOVING? Families® magazines can be be franchised in new areas. Read initial franchise information on the website or call. • Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd, Tadley, Hants

Holiday Activities

Trunki suitcases

Lose that baby weight!

22-23

New Products Great summer products to take away

Competitions and give aways

Fifteen fabulous and easy things to do this summer

33- 38

What’s On

Summer Festivals

Theatres, exhibitions, events, galleries, diary dates and much more Duck Tours

33-38 3

local news

compiled by Joanna Parry

Inclusion in these pages is always FREE

Shared parental leave

Two new shops •The third branch of independent toy shop Just Williams has recently opened in Balham. The shop is packed with everything from baby toys, arts and crafts and traditional board games to the ever popular brands such as Sylvanian Families, Brio, Lego, Playmobil, plus a great range of pocket-money toys. This family-run business provides great customer service and is an enjoyable shopping experience for both parents and children. Just Williams, 8b Balham Hill, SW12 (next to the Bathstore). www.justwilliamstoys.com

The NCT welcomes the new plans for shared parental leave that have been announced by the coalition government. "New parents make dedicated, loyal, hard-working employees, so long as their parental leave and return to work are managed well,” says Elizabeth Duff, Senior Policy Adviser at NCT, the UK's largest parents' charity. Just Williams

•The Hoad family have been selling children’s shoes since 1898 and now the fourth generation of the family are bringing their quality and expertise to their new shop in Wandsworth. Hoads of London is a specialist shoe shop offering a wide range of brands including Clarks, Start Rite, Geox, Converse, Timberland, Kickers, Birkenstock, Primigi, Ricosta, Bobux and Hunter to name but a few. Get your children’s feet fitted perfectly at Hoads of London, 39A & B Allfarthing Lane, Wandsworth, SW18 2AP. 020 8870 7203 hoadsoflondon.co.uk

Clapham NCT branch is top The NCT Clapham branch has been awarded the Gold Standard for its NCT ‘Nearly New’ sales this summer, an accolade that recognises the branch’s sales as being amongst the best in the UK in terms of providing a valuable service for new and expectant parents and also achieving fantastic fundraising success for the NCT charity. “We’re delighted to receive this award,” says Jenny Hemsley, Chair of the Clapham Branch. “It recognises all the hard work our volunteers contribute to ensure the sales are a success. There is always a terrific atmosphere at the events, which makes it good fun for our members.” Look out for the next Clapham NCT Nearly New Sale if you are looking for new gear or even if you want to clear out your old baby kit. If you have larger equipment to sell, the NCT will do it for you and you will receive 70% of the sale proceeds. To find out more email claphamchair@claphamnct.com www.nct.org.uk

“Introducing a period where both mothers and fathers can take time together is a positive change, and more flexibility could help parents find the balance between work and home life that will reduce the current strain on families. Longer or more flexible parental leave should be a realistic option for all parents, so we continue to call for improved provision for parents who receive the statutory pay of less than £130 a week. In addition, we are concerned the new proposals may not be supported by legislation but be available only at employers' discretion. Greater clarity and support for employers and parents is needed, especially in smaller companies.” www.nct.org.uk

Changes to SEN Special Educational Needs statements will be replaced with a ‘health and care’ plan – and parents will be given a personal budget to spend on implementing it, under new government proposals. The aim is to give parents whose children have SEN more power over their care – but ministers also believe it will reduce the number of children labelled as having SEN, because they believe too many children are currently given SEN status. The new plans are being piloted from September 2011, and will be introduced nationally next year.

Stay sun safe with a UV Angel Slapping on the suncream can be a battle especially when children don’t understand why it’s necessary. Families Leeds has discovered a fun range of sun jewellery from Yorkshire-based UV Angel. These great products, made from sun sensitive beads, change colour to let you know that the UV you’re being exposed to could be damaging your skin. “The idea came after a good friend developed skin cancer,” says Angela Thompson from After UV Angel. “When the beads change colour, Before it makes you think. It reminds you that there’s UV out there and you need to protect yourself.” There’s a wide range of UV Angel products to choose from including bag tags, key rings, necklaces and bracelets. There’s a fun range for children, as well as a more contemporary range for mums. The darker the beads go, the more UV there is and they act as a great way to prompt not just sun cream application, but also conversation about the dangers of the sun. Take a look at the full range of UV Angel products at www.uv-angel.com. Prices start at £2.50.

visit www.familiessouthwest.co.uk for more ...

Eco-chic for girls Another London mum with a sense of style is Sophie Gaxatte, who has set up online store www.mademoisellesophie.com Mademoiselle Sophie is a new eco-chic brand for young girls aged 3 to 6, and is a collection that you will be sure to treasure for years to come! Building on the ethos of comfortable, ethical and environmentally sustainable clothes for fashion conscious children, the range features exciting, colourful and classic pieces to be worn, worn and worn again. Check out their gorgeous frilly tops in cambric cotton for £20 and their reversible pinafores for £34, made from environmentally friendly fabric that is softer and kinder on the skin. Use the promotional code FAM at the checkout for a 10% discount. www.mademoisellesophie.com

July/August 2011

local news

send to news@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Calling all young adventurers

Don’t forget the last detail For beautiful baby gifts and room decorations take a look at finishing touches company www.thelastdetail.co.uk If you’re anything like us, picking out baby presents is officially one of the world’s best shopping trips – whether it’s for your own child, a niece or nephew or if you’ve been honoured with Godparent status. www.thelastdetail.co.uk offers a choice of enchanting, hand-picked gifts perfect for special occasions such as Christenings and birthdays. Set up by a local mum of two, it is also the ideal place to shop for delightful, high quality and unique finishing touches from wedding favours to personalised keepsakes. We love their personalised bunting from £34.95 and room hearts for £16.50. Worth a look!

Champions of the track Senior pupils from Streatham & Clapham High School recently competed with other schools in Lambeth to become the Lambeth Athletics Champions. Streatham & Clapham High School was outstandingly represented by athletes from a wide range of year groups. The Year 7 girls took part in the Super Eights, where eight girls competed in all the track and field events, and with several SCHS girls winning their heats and finals in a number of events including relays, sprints, middle distance running and field events, the school was placed first and received a magnificent trophy to add to their already bulging cabinet! “We are so proud of the girls,” says Liz Basson, Head of PE. “They show such outstanding sportsmanship and skill, and work so hard to do their best for our school.” www.schs.gdst.net

July/August 2011

Mine, all mine A South West London mum has recently set up website www.minelondon.com offering gorgeous personalised fleece blankets for kids of all ages. Lovingly hand-crafted in England, the blankets are ultra soft and not too heavy, perfect not just for bedtime but for all those comfort-blanket moments in between, from sleepovers to car journeys or simply curling up on the sofa with a favourite movie. Choose from Pram, Cot Bed or Single Bed sizes in a choice of 3 colours, from £23. And keep an eye out for personalised beach and bath towels which will be also on the website shortly. www.minelondon.com are offering Families readers an exclusive discount of 20% when shopping online – just type in the promo code ‘families’ at the checkout. Offer valid until end of September 2011.

Consumers robbed of right to natural health A new EU Directive on Natural Health takes the freedom of choice away from the UK Consumer and has forced some UK companies out of business. The directive, which came into force on 1st May 2011, takes away the right of consumers to buy some natural health products they have been using for decades. The Traditional Herbal Medicinal Products Directive (THMPD) states that it is now illegal to sell herbal medicines which have not been registered under the new legislation, despite them having been used safely as drug-free alternatives for centuries. The EU argues that their aim is to regulate the use of herbal medicines, although many of those in the natural health industry see this as merely a moneymaking scheme, and the move has already forced many small UK companies out of business due to the insurmountable costs involved. “It costs between £60,000 and £70,000 to register a product under this new law,” says Simon Bandy, Manager at Health Plus, a family-run company which produces nutritional supplements. “As a result of the directive we have had no choice but to delist some of our most popular products such as Echinacea and St. John’s Wort, which have been helping people improve their health and wellbeing for centuries.” Bandy continues, “This legislation favours large manufacturers who can afford to pay the astronomical registration costs for keeping their products on the shelf.” Info: www.anh-europe.org

Call 020 8696 9680 or familiessouthwest.co.uk

News.... continues p.6

National Geographic Kids, the UK’s mostpopular children’s magazine, has launched the National Geographic Kids Adventure Awards, inviting readers to enter a competition that will crown the first-ever National Geographic Kids Young Adventurer Of The Year. Adventures can happen anywhere, so celebrity judge Steve Backshall, presenter of CBBC’s Deadly 60, will be looking out for a truly intrepid spirit, whether it is somebody who has climbed a mountain for charity, overcome an illness to battle back with a sporting challenge, or lent a helping hand at a far-flung wildlife sanctuary. In association with family travel specialist, The Adventure Company, National Geographic Kids will reward the winner with the family holiday of a lifetime – a 13-day trip to Nepal, where they will explore Kathmandu, the Himalayas and the Chitwan wildlife reserve. On top of that, five runners-up will receive National Geographic adventure kits from Trends. Cast your vote at www.ngkids.co.uk - the closing date for the Awards is 31st August 2011 and the winner will be announced in the magazine’s November issue.

local news Summer’s here, time to detox? Families South West employee Andrena Dookun tried the Forever Living (Aloe Vera) 9-day detox programme and was impressed with the results. There are many reasons to detox, as parents we often slide into unhealthy eating habits, find it hard to make time to exercise, feel low in energy or just want to lose a few pounds. Having never done a detox before I wasn’t sure what to expect … I think I secretly hoped I could carry on as usual, just take some extra supplements and magically feel the benefits! Not so. Like all things worth changing, you have to put the effort in and doing a detox is a good way to make yourself start. Lara Zimmern runs the Forever Living detox programme and is passionate about what it offers: “Most of us carry around 10 lbs of toxins in our bodies. The idea of doing a detox is to release the toxins and give our digestive system a rest and cleanse”. Lara is there to take you through the whole process and support you during the 9 days. The essentials of the detox are aloe vera gel, supplements, exercise and lots of water. The first two days are akin to going cold turkey – no food and just capsules, a foul-tasting gel and a milkshake. Just when you’re about to give up, it suddenly gets easier as you’re allowed a daily low calorie meal from the third day and by then, you’re so grateful to eat that your healthy meal feels like a feast. This is where the re-educating starts to kick in. As the days passed I was

Could you help children in your spare time? surprised at how quickly my energy levels and motivation increased as my hunger decreased – I even started to almost enjoy the aloe gel! There appear to be some lasting changes too: I’m more aware of what I eat, want to drink more water and have almost gone off caffeine – this for someone who was addicted to tea - if I can change, anyone can! Lara can be contacted on 07793 057 120 or goodbodyforever@myflpbiz.com Find out more about Forever Living at www.forevergoodbody.myflpbiz.com Clean 9 costs £106.68 Visit www.familiessouthwest.co.uk to read the full version of this article

Polarn O.Pyret brand now online Sweden's leading baby and childrenswear first is pleased to offer 10% off and free p+p to Families readers. Clothes are smart, functional, bright, over 30% of the range is organic. 120 stores nationwide. www.polarnopyret.co.uk Use discount code FMSWLDN11 valid until 31.08.11

Parents helping Parents Are you a parent with a few hours to spare each week? Would you like to help other parents whilst gaining valuable experience yourself? Part of a national charitable network, Home-Start Lambeth supports vulnerable families with children under 5 by training volunteers who befriend and visit families for a

few hours each week in their homes, and by running playgroups in the borough of Lambeth. Families may need help for a variety of reasons such as the disability of a child or parent, postnatal depression, a multiple birth or social isolation. Home-Start Lambeth supports parents to grow in confidence, strengthen their relationship with their children and widen their links to the local community.

visit www.familiessouthwest.co.uk for more ...

Volunteer Reading Help is a National Charity whose key aim is to help children read. Ameilia Shaw, Volunteer Services Manager asked Families to spread the urgent help required: “Our reading helpers work in local primary schools throughout London South West, Wandsworth and surrounding areas. They share books, play games and talk, enabling the children to become more confident readers, and to see that reading is fun. We are particularly seeking reading helpers to visit schools in the Inner London area. Enquiries from all areas welcome as our branch network covers a wide variety of areas.” For more information please telephone: Volunteer Reading Help (Reg. Charity No: 296454) 0845 4500331 innerlondon@vrh.org.uk

Your child? in a mobile classroom? Up to 72,000 families across the UK will fail to get their first choice of primary school this September, according to predictions. The disappointment is likely to be greatest in London, where there is most pressure for school places – there, around a fifth of pupils are unlikely to get a reception class place at their first choice school. A rise in birthrates, combined with an influx of immigrants in some areas, has contributed to the current pressure on places – and 70 per cent of councils are now planning to install mobile classrooms in playgrounds, or to erect new buildings, to cope with the shortfall. Home-Start Lambeth is looking to recruit more volunteers to help with its vital work. Training courses for volunteers are generally run three times a year. The next one will start on 15 September in Stockwell, running one day a week 9.30 to 2.30 for 8 weeks. Volunteers don't need qualifications, just a commitment to the family you would be visiting for 2 to 4 hours a week, good listening skills, understanding and discretion, and some parenting experience. What a great scheme! •If you would like to find out more about volunteering please call Home-Start Lambeth on 020 7924 9292 or see their website www.homestartlambeth.co.uk

July/August 2011

Musings of a desperate parent seeking common sense when it comes to wireless technologies By Patty Hemingway

Well, after much debate, a European Committee composed of scientists from 14 different countries concluded that exposure to cell phone radiation was a possible carcinogen and classifed it into the 2B category, (the same category as DDT or car exhaust). I started to feel that common sense was prevailing after all. Then in June, as the World Health Organisation committee on cancer (IARC) announced that nonionising radiation was a possible carcinogen, the advertorials carried on as usual, and the commercials showing happy families playing wireless games, stepped up the pressure on parents to cave in and buy that device they might have had second thoughts about. Radio presenters enthused about ideas to turn shopping centres into wireless hot-spots to improve marketing to shoppers, with instant updates and special offers sent to their mobile phones. Are children supposed to be left at home when parents go shopping? What about the baby cradled in a parent’s arms, inches from the back of the phone (and its built-in antenna)? It seemed the telecoms industry had a whole new batch of products to market to parents, children, and yes – even babies – and they were not going to let a little consideration like our children’s future health get in their way.

Warm loving environment for 2+ to 5 year olds Montessori-qualified staff International atmosphere Light and airy premises Private sunny patio Fulham /Hammersmith border Please ring— Morning sessions plus Tuesdays 1-3pm

020 7381 3511 020 7736 8729

Children’s brains are more vulnerable because its development is not complete until 25 yrs. This is why, in some other countries such as France, teenagers are advised to text rather than hold a mobile phone to their heads, and governments are encouraging manufacturers Buy your children an earpiece (and one for you too) to produce text-only mobiles. Awareness-raising campaigns are urgently required The author of the Council of Europe report said that "awareness-raising

campaigns targeting teachers and parents should be implemented rapidly, warning of the risks of prolonged use of mobile phones by children from an early age." By contrast, here in the UK, we have journalists gushing about the usefulness (?!) of apps for toddlers and babies. In my day babies were soothed by a parent’s crooning, soft music and fascinating mobiles. A baby should not be anywhere near a mobile phone, and after considering the evidence, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, recommends a raft of measures be put in place to protect children from the potential health risks from “DECT-type wireless telephones, baby monitors, and other domestic appliances that emit continuous pulse waves.” (Resolution 1815, 2011) Immediate results on clearing eczema I recall a toddler I treated a few years ago, when wireless was just being introduced. His loving parents gave him the best of everything, and he lived in a wonderful home and had a healthy diet, but still he was covered in eczema, and had been for most of his life. I suggested that they remove all the sources of wireless radiation from the home environment, computer, cordless DECT phones, baby monitor, and the multiple mobile phones that he seemed to enjoy playing with. His mother was grateful for this advice, because within a week his skin was clear. Skin rashes are a common symptom in people sensitive to electromagnetic radiation. Other common symptoms in children include nose-bleeds, insomnia and night terrors, hyperactivity, and eye problems with or without headaches. If all this is new to you, and it might be, since the health and safety information that comes with mobile phones is buried in the small print, then there are plenty of websites where you can get more information from parents and scientists. www.mobilwise.org www.wiredchild.org www.powerwatch.org.uk www.es-uk.info www.wifiinschools.org.uk wwww.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation •Patty Hemingway (RMANM) is a family homeopath and EFT Practitioner with a special interest in electromagnetic radiation sickness www.pattyhemingway.com or tel: 020 8333 0413.

July/August 2011

See www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk/Radiation

THE SOUTHFIELDS SCHOOL OF BALLET We offer imaginative Ballet and Jazz classes for children (boys & girls) from 21/2 years. The emphasis of the school is on fun, musicality and fitness, with the option to take Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) examinations.

020 8683 0222 classes held in Southfields and Wimbledon

Sibling Discount Join anytime Principal: Mrs. Eliane Gerhard, BA (Hons), LRAD

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July/August 2011

Summer in the UK? Trust Families to help… Check out our huge listings online: days out, activities, workshops, forest walks, Fun days and events from our sister Families® magazines: Families Surrey, Families Upon Thames, Families South East and more. Check out www.familiesonline.co.uk

July/August 2011

Maggie’s treasure trove: Clapham/Battersea SW4/SW11

Maggie O’Brien continues her search for the best things and places in SW London... this month it is Clapham and Battersea bits of both! (SW4/SW11) Clapham and Battersea seem to work hand in hand, a huge jigsaw to unravel! I have just plucked out a few things to illustrate its diversity. Clapham, to me, spells the fabulous common, markets, fashionable and avant-garde shops, restaurants and endless cafés! Choosing what to feature has been hard, really hard!

Clapham Picture House

La Valentina La Valentina

Clapham Common I walked the length and breadth of the common (well almost) to get my bearings and to fully appreciate its size. There were football players, people basking in the sun and children enjoying the designated playgrounds. Being one of the largest open spaces in London, it offers everything from a wonderful historical bandstand, still used very much today, dog free children’s play areas, cafés, a One O’Clock club, fishing and sports facilities.

Slightly off the beaten track and opposite the cinema, this café cum- gift shop is the perfect place to unwind. “I think because it’s out of the hub, it makes it easier for families to feel less rushed”, said Artist Manager, Valentina Gomez. Having set up the shop just a couple of months ago, she has managed to achieve a combination of fun art, gifts to buy and a café that welcomes children. (Unusually, dogs are welcome too).

Under the Greenwood Tree Newly opened, (mentioned in our June issue), a children’s book and toy shop in Clapham Old Town, which is refreshingly about children.

Music has always been a big feature and there are regularly concerts to suit all tastes. The beautifully restored bandstand will feature many bands and musical events throughout July and August.

The café seating area is very well thought through, with high chairs and easy access for buggies to get around. (Don’t worry, good coffee too)!

Crossing the common at different points brings you to lots of specialist shops, restaurants and things to do. Why not go for a paddle and then a stop off at ‘The pavement’ area to have afternoon tea or an ice cream.

Sophie Greenwood, owner, said, “I felt that there was a real need in the Clapham Common area for somewhere selling children’s books and toys. The café is very child-friendly with baby changing facilities, nappies and wipes and free babyccinos. We do storytime at the weekend and free half term and holiday activities which are advertised on our website”.

Clapham Picture House This smart, recently revamped cinema is situated conveniently close to Clapham Common tube station. Described as the ‘cultural and social landmark in the community’, it has a nostalgic retro feel to it. There is a Kids’ Club, at only £4 a year to join including the first film free, admission to creative activities in the bar and a chance to win a prize each week. There are excellent membership benefits for all the family and every first Friday of the month, there is a special reduced price screening for community groups.

Clapham Library Within spitting distance of the paddling pool area and across from the common is the good old reliable library. Samarys Ramdhum, mother of Andave, and Krishmary, said, “I like to visit with my children, they love getting out books and I like to see what’s going on. I have only been here a year, but I think I may start organising local painting classes for children, the library has given me lots of ideas”. (See website later for listings of what’s going on).

Log on www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/Peeping to read about the postcodes we have peeped at in previous issues:SW1, 3, 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16 18 and 19

July/August 2011

Peeping at postcodes Macaron French boulangerie & pâtisserie I resisted the temptation of popping into this inviting tea room. It was full, always a good sign. People were sitting outside and being opposite the Common, it appeared relaxed. The cakes I am told, are fabulous.

Happy Faces We need more places like this. If your children hate having their hair cut, make a trip to this fabulous hair salon. It’s fun, funky and affordable.

Under The Greenwood Tree

Lollipop Completely changing direction and moving up towards St John’s Hill, I stumbled across this dream of an old fashioned style sweetshop. I had to mention it as I think it is truly an outing for any child and fun for parents too! The presentation, selection and wrapping of the sweets is both exciting and colourful. When your children may have a treat, get it here.

A few more ideas, activities and useful information Clapham Books –Story Time, stories, singing and fun for ages 1-5 every Wednesday at 11am (free). Zumba Fitness –Dance your way to fitness, evening and daytime classes. Clapham Manor Children’s Centre – Play and learn for 0-5years. Tutti Time – creative and lively music and movement classes on Mondays for under 5’s. Clapham NCT – run weekly drop - in sessions and... Clapham Playgroup – for babies and toddlers. Wednesdays 10am-12noon. Clapham Pottery - Fun family activities; also classes and workshops for adults and children. The Papered Parlour offers classes like dressmaking, silversmithing, parties and art exhibition a lovely junky place! 7 Prescott Place, London SW4 6BS 020 7627 8703 www.thepaperedparlour.co.uk Peppermint – Excellent nursery goods at online prices with great service and support. Buonasera –fabulous pizza in a child friendly environment. (Awarded Parent Friendly by The Daily Telegraph). The Grand – Something for the adults. Great venue particularly for comedy, every Saturday night. 21-25 St Johns hill, Clapham, London. SW11 1TT info@claphamgrand.com

Further information: SW11 Lollipop

Northcote Road market and shops No piece about Clapham could be complete without talking about Northcote Road. Northcote Road is unrecognisable from what it used to be, only a few years ago: big labels are tapping into this huge nappy valley, there are smart restaurants and bijou shops galore; yet somehow still manages to feel villagey. On Saturday morning you see the dads bringing home the papers and croissants, mums chatting in the pavement cafes over a latte. The atmosphere is definitely worth checking out. Northcote Road Market is open six days a week and is the largest of Wandsworth’s markets. There is fresh fruit and vegetables as well as crafts and clothes. The Eat Me, cake stall is a popular favourite with assorted, tempting cupcakes on offer. FSW editor’s personal favourites are Northcote Road Antiques Market, Verde natural beauty products, the Hive honey shop, La Cuisiniere, Northcote music shop and the Fara charity shop for great quality bargains !!

Samba Swirl (frozen yoghurt your way) This was recently opened and a real find; low fat frozen yogurt made with delicious fresh ingredients and you can serve yourself! Treat the whole family without worrying about it being unhealthy. “I just love the whole concept of people having fun, getting exactly what they want and leaving with a smile on their faces”, says Kate Vallon, Manager.

July/August 2011

• Clapham Common – Windmill Drive, London. SW4 9DE parks@lambeth.go.uk Tel: 0207 926 9000 • Clapham Picture House – 76 Venn Street, London. SW4 OAT www.picturehouses.co.uk Tel: 0871 902 5727 • La Valentina – 57 Venn Street, Clapham Common, London. SW4 0BD Tel: 020 7274 2132 • Under The Greenwood Tree – 11, The Polygon, London. SW4 OJG www.underthegreenwoodtree.co.uk Tel: 020 7627 4557l • Clapham Library - 1 Clapham Common Northside, London. SW4 0QW Claphamlibrary@lambeth.gov.uk Tel: 020 7926 0717 • Lollipop – 201 St Johns Hill, London. SW11 1TH Tel: 020 7585 1588 • Northcote Road Market – see both info@lambethcouncil.co.uk and www.wandsworth.gov.uk • Samba Swirl – 77 Northcote Road, London. SW11 www.sambaswirl.co.uk Tel: 020 7585 1871 • Clapham Books – 120 Clapham High Road, London. SW4 7UH www.claphambooks.com Tel: 020 7627 2797 • Zumba Fitness - Studio 3b, 9 Park Hill, Clapham. London SW4 9NS Amanda@clear-wellness.com • Clapham Manor Children’s Centre – contact: Families Information Service Tel: 0845 601 5317 / younglambeth.org • Clapham Playgroup – St. John the Evangelist Church Hall, London. SW9 OJJ claphamplaygroup@gmail.com • Clapham NCT – see: www.nct.org.uk/clapham • Clapham Pottery - 4a Rectory Grove, London. SW4 ODZ • Verde, aromatherapy, pure plant preparations, organic, essential oils, bath, creams... 113A Northcote Road, London 020 7223 2095 www.verde.co.uk • La Cuisiniere, 3 different shops on Northcote Rd, www.la-cuisiniere.co.uk Great service. • The Hive Honey shop. Live bee hive to look at, bee keeping equipment and books, fantastic hay fever remedy and of course delicious honey! 93 Northcote Road, London SW11 6PL www.thehivehoneyshop.co.uk • Northcote Music, music sheet, music exams, musical instruments repairs they do it all with a smile. 155C Northcote Road, 020 7228 0074. • Tutti Time – St John’s Community Development Hall, Clapham Road, London. SW9 9AR Tel: 07095 134 057 • Peppermint – 56 Northcote Road, London. SW11 1PA & 176 Northcote Road, London. SW11 6RE Tel: 0203 393 3101 www.peppermint.co.uk • Buonasera - 22/26 Northcote Road, London. SW11 1NX Tel: 020 7228 9925 General enquiries • Macaron – 22 The Pavement, London. SW4 OHY Tel: 020 7498 2636 • Happy Faces - 50 Webbs Road, London. SW11 6SF Tel: 020 7228 8151 www.yourhappyfaces.com

Holiday activities listings As there is no room to print everything in the magazine, we have uploaded to our website.

Compiled by Karin Snelson

It is now time to book your child’s summer camps and classes. Residential or day camps, workshops, hourly classes like tennis or football… there is a HUGE range of things to choose from.

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/ holidayactivities We’ve got details of all of these below, plus plenty more ! As usual Families comes up trumps!

Day and Residential Camps and Holiday Ideas

For our complete listing simply go to FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/ holidayactivities We’ve done the hard work for you!

The details of these activities are online. Too many to list here!

Playball - one of the many activities to join in this summer

• AVP Sports • Horniman Museum • Do It 4 Real (YHA) • Camp Wild • SuperCamps • Barnes Summer Play School • Single with Kids • Kick Asthma UK ....and more

27-31 July and August:

Club Petit Pierrot

Act Drama

Sports

Streatham & Clapham High School, 42 Abbotswood Road, SW16 www.actdrama.co.uk 07976 873161

St Mark’s Church Hall, Abercorn Place NW8 Flourish through French! Also term-time sessions at venues in SW London. www.clubpetitpierrot.uk.com 020 7385 5565

25 July to 26 August:

18 July to 19 August:

BackFlip Performers Gymnastics

South West Swimming School

• Wandsworth Summer Uni • Millenium Arena Battersea • Barn Elms Boat House Rowing • Playball • Telford Tennis Club • Chelsea FC Soccer School • Little Kickers • Barn Elms Boat House • Wimbledon Park Sailing Club • Aspire Centre • Kiddikicks • Ridgway Stables • Wimbledon Village Riding Stables • Allstar Tennis • Wigmore LTC ....and more

www.backflipperformers.com 020 8940 7998 25-29 July:

Funky Moves Dance The Exhibit, Balham Station Road, SW12 www.funkymovesdance.com 07810 431101

Emanuel School, SW11 and Ernest Bevin College, SW17 020 8767 2723 25-29 July:

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Battersea 40 Parkgate Road, SW11 www.stagecoach.co.uk 020 8946 2986 25-29 July and 1- 5 August:

25-29 July and August

Stagecoach Wimbledon

Playball

Art, Craft and Cookery

Wimbledon High School, Mansel Road SW19 www.stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon 020 8946 3400

• Artyard • Arty Party • Cookie Crumbles • Eddie Catz Putney and Wimbledon • Horniman Museum • Little Hands Design • Paint Pots • Somerset House • Fun with Fimo • Play with Clay • Puppet Planet ....and more

Playball Summer Camp: fun, skills and games. Mondays and Tuesdays 25-26 July, 1-2, 15-16 and 22-23 August on Battersea Park tennis courts 11-13. Wednesdays to Fridays 27-29 July, 3-5, 17-19 and 24-26 August at Oak Lodge School, Nightingale Lane, Balham. For 3-8s. Sessions from 10am-1pm. Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Also in Richmond and Barnes www.playball-london.com 11 July to 19 August:

Central London Golf Club Burntwood Lane, SW17 020 8871 2468 www.clgc.co.uk

The Little Gym Wandsworth & Fulham, Riverside West, SW18 and Hampton & Teddington, 94-102 High Street, Hampton Hill, TW12 Wandsworth & Fulham 020 8874 6567 Hampton & Teddington 020 8977 0099 www.thelittlegym.co.uk 25 July to 26 August:

Theatrebugs St Luke’s, Balham; Village Nursery, Barnes; Contact Centre, Clapham; Christchurch, Fulham, and Eddie Catz, Putney www.theatrebugs.co.uk 020 7350 2995

Languages

Kiddisports

26 July to end August:

Drama, dance, and music

5 weeks, 5 days, 5 sports (football, rugby, cricket, hockey and bat and ball), for children aged from 18 months up to age 8 years.

Tin Pan Annie St Barnabas Church, Clapham and St Luke’s Church, Ramsden Road, SW12 www.tinpanannie.co.uk 020 8670 0644

• Group 64 Youth Theatre • Green Dog Arts • Imperial War Museum ....and more

25 July to 5 August:

PLUS:

August 1st to September 2nd

Old Deer Park, Richmond, Hyde Park and Maida Vale, London. www.kiddikicks.co.uk, 020 7937 7965. Kiddikicks.co.uk (18m to 5yrs football) Kiddisports (18m to 8 multisport) and Ligasoccer.co.uk (under 8’s football)

25 July to 1 September:

Upbeat Music Chelsea and Fulham www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk 07816 901396

• Club Petit Pierrot • Le Club Tricolore

Days Out Animal Encounters farms and zoos July/August 2011

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July/August 2011

Neil’s foodie page Hello, I’m Neil Hennessy-Vass, This is a page for all to enjoy and hopefully take something from. I believe in a healthy eating philosophy which is simply you can eat what ever you want but in moderation (that’s the hard bit I know). Looking forward to hearing from you with ideas and suggestions for this page. Neil Hennessy-Vass

The Admiral Codrington Restaurant review 17 Mossop Street London SW3 2LY Tel: 020 7581 0005 We set off for lunch in wonderful sunshine and lets face it outdoor space is one of the most splendid aspects of summer dinning. With the prospect of a retracting roof I was looking forward to trying out the recently revamped Admiral Codrington, a rather swish pub with a rather swisher restaurant in Mayfair, you can eat in either, the menu is the same. As we arrived it started to pour with rain. Typical. The real wow factor of the dining space is the enormous glazed roof, which can open up to reveal the heavens. Under which sits a long and very comfortable banquette. We got going on fresh Crab Linguini with Chilli, Garlic and Parsley, the pasta was ‘to the tooth’, Crab was light and the chilli very subtle – a good combination. Some Asparagus with gorgeous Morels in a light cream and a crispy Egg was good but I would question serving these ingredients at the end of season. These starters began at £8.50. I couldn’t resist ordering a Jack O’Shea Angus Rib Eye steak. Jack’s meat is very good and as if proof were needed he is Heston Blumenthal’s butcher of choice. It was juicy, succulent and arrived with a Mustard and Peppercorn Butter on top, perfect. The Admirals Cod, Tomatoes, Mushrooms and Herb Crust proved worthy, again fresh and full of flavour with nothing dominating. We also ate superb chunky hand-cut chips. These mains Asparagus with gorgeous morels started at £15.50. The Steak was £26 though.

Fruit lollies on the market tried and tested With all this good weather we have been having I thought it was time to look at the healthier option when it comes to the traditional thirst-quenching fruit-lolly. Finding any that are 100% fruit and free of added sugar was quite hard. The main contenders were Waitrose, Del Monte and a company called Yummy Lollies. I asked the children to help with this ‘onerous’ task – not surprisingly they jumped at the chance. There was quite a scrabble to try the more unusual flavours, our youngest son tried Yummy’s Blackcurrant “absolutely loved, it’s the best by far Dad”. Others were broader in their views, the Strawberry and Banana from Yummy’s again was devoured and my wife declared “it was sweet and had the texture of a smoothie, I like it”. The Pineapple from Del Monte faired better than their Orange effort, which was very bitter, all four of us didn’t like it at all and it wasn’t even finished - how often does that happen with a fruit lolly?

Crab linguini with chilli, garlic and parsley

Baked Cheese Cake is a fondness of mine that does me no good at all – so I thought I’d try that. It was very simple and almost fluffy inside. An Apple and Blackberry Crumble, was eaten completely by my wife but for me it was a bit oaty – maybe I’m a purist. Puddings were all priced at £5.75. The only drawback was something not under their control – the weather. It rained throughout our lunch. But, just as the last plates were cleared a ray of sunshine appeared and “as if by magic” the giant glass roof opened just a little, allowing us a glimpse of how, The Admiral Codington may fair, if only the weather was better in Mayfair.

Waitrose pulled a little magic out of the hat with their take on Orange using Valencia oranges. This just sung ‘sweet Mediterranean fruit on a hot day’ to me – absolutely wonderful and totally refreshing. The main point of a fruit lolly I would have thought. I also favoured the Yummy British Apple and Raspberry, which I noted as being muted but refreshing – another winner. Our eldest son pronounced that “Strawberry and Banana from Yummy and Orange from Waitrose were the only ones worth buying”, I think he might have had his eye on the rest of the box from Waitrose! There was a Mango and Apple from Yummy that whilst very nice, tasted much more of mango than apple. So in conclusion, I would say that there are some very interesting choices out there and it’s fun finding which ones you like. Most of these lollies claim to offer one of your ‘five a day’ within each lolly, so searching for your favourite can also be healthy as well as something the whole family can enjoy.

July/August 2011

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A river runs through it

great ery for l l a G l iona tivities 12 Nat arty ac

photo by Nick Cottrell

Over 20 exciting exciting family attractions to discover on the River Thames this summer… off you go!

4 London Wetland Centre for a nature adventure

7 Houses of Parliament for a dose of democracy

10 8. London Aquarium for something fishy

9 8

3 Kew Gardens to explore the world

6 4

5. In the Night Garden, Return of last year’s top-selling CBeebies children’s show in amazing showdome 30 July - 13 August: Old Deer Park, Richmond 0844 5811251

9. London Eye to soar like a bird

1 Syon Park for a breath of fresh air 2 Hampton Court for a slice of history

Cinema under the Stars, 18-21 August. Four great films, alfresco! www.lady-in-red.co.uk

6. Battersea Zoo to encounter wild animals, giggle at their antics and simply marvel how beautiful they are..

July/August 2011

10 St Jam es’s Park to row, row , row your boat

11. Masses of fun at the Mayor’s Thames Festival, 10th and 11th September

12 15 Off with their heads at the Tower of London

19. The O2 Arena to find the Dinosaurs Unleashed Exhibition

15 13

20. Thames barrier for the world’s largest flood barrier

19 20

Hop on and off to places with Thames Clipper's Daily River Roamer ticket: unlimited travel from 9am to 9pm. Under 5's travel for free.

17 Use Thames Clippers to get you there and back fast!

14. HMS Belfast for a 20th century naval voyage

17. Royal Naval College, Greenwich for the National Maritime Museum

18. Royal Observatory, Greenwich for London’s only Planetarium

Thanks to Visit Britain for all images on the page except for: 2 Kew Gardens - Image from RBG Kew 4 London Wetland Centre - Shelduck at London Wetland Centre, photo by Nick Cottrell 9 National Gallery - © National Gallery, London 10 Thames River Festival - Image by Barry Lewis

13. Shakespeare’s Globe for a dramatic step back in time

16. The Design Museum for

This River Thames image is not to scale nor to be used as a map, or to settle any border disputes.

wicked design workshops July/August 2011

Baby page

Tara Lee leaning over Rania

by Joanna Parry

Lose that baby weight, baby! Congratulations, you have a baby! Or two, or even three…. The downside of the arrival of your little bundle of joy is probably that, like most of us, you’re carrying some extra weight and you’ve got a mummy tummy and flabby thighs, not to mention the stretch marks! But when is it time to really think about exercising? And with summer here and that bikini threatening, just what is out there for new mums?

Exercise at home With a new baby, finding the time to exercise can be difficult. Lack of sleep and breastfeeding can leave you feeling drained of energy, but remember that not only does exercise help your body recover from pregnancy and birth, there’s also some research to show that it can help treat and prevent postnatal depression. From pilates to yoga and running in the park to yummy mummy clubs, there is a whole range of exercise out there that is just for you. Getting back in shape is not something you can rush. It has taken nine months for you to gain your pregnancy weight, so it may take a similar length of time to lose it. Your body has done an amazing job of bringing your baby into the world, so give it a chance to recover. It’s also important to remember that if you’ve had a caesarean you should give yourself six weeks to heal before you even think about any exercise. If you’ve had a normal delivery there are some exercises you can do straight away - the ones you'll have benefited from doing all through your pregnancy – the pelvic floor! 2-3 weeks later, it’s OK to do some simple abdominal crunches, providing you have been checked out by a doctor. Your abdominal muscles have been stretched during pregnancy and may have split down the middle so it’s important to be examined before exercising. Ten Pilates

After six weeks, there are more exercises you can try at home: On your hands and knees, breathe in and as you breathe out, tighten your pelvic floor muscles and pull your belly button in and up. Lift your left arm straight out in front of you and hold it there for 10 seconds. Repeat up to 10 times and then repeat again with the right arm In the same position, lift your left leg out straight behind you. Hold this position for 10 seconds without holding your breath or allowing your pelvic floor or tummy muscles to relax. Repeat up to 10 times and then repeat with the right leg Stay on your hands and knees and lift your right arm out in front of you and your left leg out behind you at the same time. Hold this position for 10 seconds. Repeat up to 10 times. Then do the whole thing again with opposite arms and legs Lie on your back and bend your knees. Tighten your pelvic floor and then lift your bottom into the air as high as is comfortable. Hold this position for around 5 seconds while breathing normally. Lower and repeat 10 times Still on your back, bend your right knee and keeping your left leg straight, lift it slightly off the floor. Try not to allow your left knee to wobble and keep your hips level. Hold for 5 seconds. Lower your bottom to the floor and repeat 10 times. Then repeat with the other leg. Lie on your right side with your knees bent towards your chest. Tighten your pelvic floor and lower tummy muscles. Keeping your heels together, lift your left knee up towards the ceiling. Hold for 5 seconds and then lower. Repeat 10 times, then move to other side. Do some gentle sit-ups by lifting your head and shoulders off the floor. Hold for 3 seconds and lower.

July/August 2011

Out and about If you want to lose weight as well as tone you will need to do some cardiovascular exercise such as brisk walking or swimming. If you’re lacking motivation, why not try a buggy class in the park? It’s a great way to meet other mums and companies such as Buggy Fit and Pushy Mother hold classes all over the country at a park near you. You can also do a buggy work-out on your own or with friends with the Pushy Mothers Buggy Workout Album – just download it from iTunes. With an hour of motivating music plus expert exercise advice for postnatal mums, it’s like have your own Pushy Instructor on your iPod! Powerpramming run fantastic classes across South West London and also have a great post

Battersea Yoga

Centre in Notting Hill. She uses a dynamic yoga form to aid recovery and rebuild the mother's strength after the birth of her baby. Battersea Yoga, Bend It Like Lisa and the Fairlee Wellbeing Centre also do great mother and baby classes. Bikram Yoga is another popular option. Taking place in a room heated to 40 degrees with 60% humidity, it might not sound like everyone’s cup of tea but it is a good way to build core strength after you’ve given birth, and the heat adds a detoxing element. If you are breastfeeding, remember to get advice from your doctor before taking part.

British Military Fitness natal exercise DVD. For the more hardcore (although they do have beginner’s classes) British Military Fitness run outdoor exercise classes across the UK if you can leave your baby, and buggy, at home.

Nice and warm, indoors If you don’t fancy the park, there are many other classes around that are specifically designed for postnatal women. Yoga is not only great to prepare you before the birth but is also good exercise for new mums. Many yoga centres offer mother and baby classes where you can do yoga

Postnatal pilates is another option that is great for strengthening your core and burning calories. Many pilates classes offer a holistic approach to rebalancing your body,while improving strength, flexibility, posture and stamina. There are some great pilates studios across SW London offering postnatal classes, including Absolute Pilates Plus and Ten Pilates.

Gyms and spas Many gyms offer postnatal exercise classes and also have crèches you can use. With your membership you will often be offered a free session with a personal trainer, who will be able to create a training programme especially for you, so take advantage of this. In South West London the rise of the yummy mummy club continues to grow. In Wandsworth, Fulham and Putney, Cupcake offers a myriad of classes for mums (and dads), from a full-on, fat-burning Boot Camp to the intense full body workout of Fighting Fit to Mum and Dad’s Circuit Training, most of which you can do with or without a buggy or baby!

Websites Out and about www.buggyfit.co.uk www.pushymothers.com www.powerpramming.co.uk www.britmilfit.com Nice and warm, indoors www.taraleeyoga.com www.batterseayoga.com www.benditlikelisa.co.uk www.yogaembodied.com www.fairleewell.co.uk/mother-baby-yoga www.hotbikramyoga.co.uk www.tenpilates.com www.thepilatespractice.com www.pilatesperformance.co.uk www.physio4life.co.uk www.physio-on-the-river.co.uk www.absolutepilatesplus.com Gyms and spas www.holmesplace.co.uk www.virginactive.co.uk www.davidlloyd.co.uk www.cupcakemum.com Bootcamps www.trimmeryoubootcamp.com www.newyoubootcamp.com www.thebootcamp.co.uk www.prestigebootcamp.com

If none of this rocks your boat and you think drastic action is called for, there’s always a residential bootcamp. From luxury, women-only bootcamps to the more military style, if you can leave for your baby for up to a week you’ll be sure to see the results! Bikram Yoga while your baby lies on a mat next to you, (hopefully) gurgling happily. Then it’s baby’s turn, where yoga and music are used to encourage your baby’s development and flexibility. Check out Tara Lee’s Mother and Baby Yoga classes at the Life

July/August 2011

Whatever form of exercise you choose, remember to get checked out by a doctor before you start, don’t push yourself too hard and above all, good luck!

Absolute Pilates

Product page by Joanna Parry

High five! Children’s favourite Trunki is five years old this spring and celebrates its fifth birthday with the launch of the Quinn – the new ride-on limited edition suitcase. As with all iconic Trunki suitcases, the utterly tot-tastic Quinn can be packed, pulled,

‘star’ hygiene rating, with places highlighted in green indicating a clean hygiene level and facilities in amber indicating more parents need to rate them to confirm their status. There are over 5,000 changing facilities on the app including Asda, Café Rouge, Debenhams, Giraffe, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Nandos, Pizza Hut and Sainsbury’s. The app is now available from www.apple.com and will also be available to non-iPhone users via the NCT website later on in the year. www.nct.org.uk •REMEMBER: not to place your phone near baby!

Make a splash this summer… Perfect for your summer holiday or a visit to your local swimming pool, Puddle Jumpers is a new swimming aid for children which guarantees fun and safety in the water. Water safety has never been so fun with the new range of bright and

towed and ridden and if you miss out on Quinn, why not let your tot befriend Freddie Fire Engine or Princess Penelope instead? Still limited edition, Freddie and Penelope (£40 each) are perfect for role-play and come with foam axe and helmet or tiara and wand. Get your Quinn before they run out at www.trunki.com. The Quinn Trunki costs £34.99.

NCT phone app What do you do when you’re out for the day, your baby needs changing and you don’t know where the nearest baby changing rooms are? NCT Babychange is a new phone app by the NCT free to download, it allows you to locate the nearest changing facility in the area with sites including supermarkets, train stations, shops, restaurants and libraries. Selecting a particular facility will bring up its name and current

important to try to keep relaxed during toilet training,” says paediatrician Dr Eve Fleming. “Dry Like Me pads can help to reduce the stress and accidents in potty training and make everyone feel more relaxed.” Dry Like Me pads cost £3.49 for a pack of 18 and are available from branches of Morrisons, ASDA Living and Wilkinsons. www.drylikeme.com

Is bottle-cleaning a chore? colourful Puddle Jumpers that not only provide parental peace of mind but that kids will love to wear. The comfortable fit with a no-chaff, soft fabric cover allows for natural movement and greater freedom, meaning children can swim and explore with maximum confidence. The Puddle Jumper costs £19.99 from www.amazon.co.uk.

Well, no longer! Now you can make light work of preparing bottles with OXO’s versatile collection of cleaning tools, designed to make life that bit easier for busy mums and dads. OXO Tot’s

Creative Mums Two entrepreneurial mums have created a unique new product to help with toilet training. Dry Like Me pads fit in a child’s own pants and are designed to capture small accidents, helping children and parents manage the stress and mess of toilet training. Judith Hough and Diane Titterton came up with the discreet pads - perfect for older children who may have accidents or when children start school and need extra confidence – which are cheaper than many other disposable alternatives and create less waste. “It is

bottlebrush comes complete with teat cleaner and stand and ensures bottles, teats and breast pump parts are thoroughly cleaned, ready for the sterilizer. With bristles for both gentle cleaning or serious scrubbing, the flexible neck allows you to

July/August 2011

Product page easily reach inside bottles of any shape and the silicone teat cleaner tackles hard to reach areas. Also check out OXO Tot’s handy dishwasher basket which allows you to rinse through baby equipment without the fear of losing small parts forever! Prices from £6.13 at John Lewis, Jo Jo Maman Bebe and Amazon.co.uk. www.oxo-uk.com

Bring fun to education and education to fun! Check out the latest BrainBox Games from the team at Green Board Games, including the new BrainBox Olympian Sports, Reminisce 1990-2010 and World History for 2011. Aimed at children aged 3-11, the games can be played at home or at school, with teachers using the games to support key areas of the national curriculum from numeracy and literacy to science and history. BrainBox games also won the Green Apple Award last year, so you can rest assured you are buying a product which is made of recycled and ethically sourced materials. Many games are also multi-lingual! They cost from £10 at www.greenboardgames.com

Lost child? Have you ever been at a crowded event and lost your child? We all know how easily this can happen, and it is exactly what occurred when mum Donna Newman’s son Bradley wandered off at a local music festival. As a consequence, Donna was inspired to launch new child safety initiative Please Call Mum to help reunite lost children with parents. Please Call Mum is a range of temporary tattoo transfers that can be personalised with a mobile number and applied easily to a child's forearm. So, for an extra level of reassurance when you’re out and about, or to let people know if your child has an allergy or other medical condition, it’s worth a look. Transfers cost £6.50 for a sheet of 12 from www.pleasecallmum.com and you can choose from designs such as princesses, submarines and racing cars. Please Call Mum are offering the first 100 Families readers free transfer tattoos – just use the promotional code FMSW11 on their website.

Carry it with you! Demand for the most exciting innovation in baby products - My Carry Potty - has been overwhelming since entrepreneur Amanda Jenner first launched it to take the stress out of potty training. And now the potty is available in a whole range of new colours, allowing your toddler to choose their favourite. Unlike a regular potty My Carry Potty has been designed to use anywhere. Fitted with an ingenious rubber seal and clip shut lid, it’s completely leak and odour-proof and there’s no messing about with liners or assembly. £24.99 at www.mycarrypotty.co.uk

July/August 2011

Competitions, give-aways and reader offers For your chance to win one of these fabulous prizes, log on to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/competitions

WIN a family ticket to the theatre production IN

THE NIGHT GARDEN LIVE! Popular children’s TV characters Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and their friends make a much anticipated return this summer in the magical nationwide tour of the theatre production IN THE NIGHT GARDEN LIVE. This much-loved show takes to the road again in its custom-built all-weather, inflatable showdome. www.nightgardenlive.com To enter, go to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/competitions Terms and Conditions apply. Closing date for the competition is 1st August 2011.

WIN a style consultation with Dress with Confidence! Bored with wearing the same things all the time because they feel safe? A style consultation with Dress with Confidence includes Colour and Body Shape Analysis and Assessment of your Style Personality. You’ll discover how relatively small changes, like the shade of blue you wear or the neck-line of a top, really can make a difference and immediately start making better choices when shopping. www.dresswithconfidence.com

WIN a copy of the fun-packed album The Best of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Friends! Perfect for pre-schoolers, this album is bursting with the very best of Disney Junior’s most loved soundtracks designed to keep children entertained this summer, including Mickey Mouse Clubhouse’s hugely popular ‘Hot Dog’ song. The CD also comes with extra special DVD content including music videos and featurettes from Disney Junior’s favourite shows including; Imagination Movers and Handy Manny and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

To enter, go to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/competitions Terms and Conditions apply. Closing date for the competition is 1st August 2011.

To enter, go to

WIN

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk/competitions Terms and Conditions apply. Closing date for the competition is 1st August 2011.

• Little Charley Bear Musical TV • The DVD ‘Are you there, Charley Bear’ • CBeebies magazine featuring Little Charley Bear! © Chapman Entertainment Limited and Annix Studios Limited 2011

WIN a family stay at Crowne Plaza Marlow plus a 2-day family pass (2 adults, 2 kids) to Legoland!

www.littlecharleybear.com To enter, go to www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk/competitions Terms and Conditions apply. Closing date for the competition is 5th September 2011.

This family-friendly 4-star hotel is a stunning weekend destination set in the heart of Buckinghamshire and there’s a summer of fun planned at the Crowne Plaza – from BBQ Fridays, with FREE bouncy castles, to family fun weekends with games on the lawn, a new Wii Room, Movie Club and the Crowne Club for Kids. www.crowneplazamarlow.co.uk To enter, go to www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk/competitions Terms and Conditions apply. Closing date for the competition is 1st August 2011.

July/August 2011

Fifteen fabulous and easy things to do this summer! With the help of Joanna Moorhead

The school holidays are here, what are you going to do – ideally without spending a fortune while laying down some happy memories.

5. Stargaze! It might take a while to work things out, but stick with it – and once you’ve identified a constellation, you’ll always find it easy to spot. Always magical to go out at night. popastro.com

7. Build a den An innate ability in children or join a course, it can give them ideas for dens for the entire summer. For den-building courses see www.forestry.gov.uk or google them.

1. Visit a pick-your-own farm “That was the best day of my life,” says my daughter Miranda, 12, of our trip a couple of summers ago to a pick-your-own farm. A cheap day out with the added touch of learning about picking and growing and making jams or puddings when back home. www.pickyourownfarms.org.uk

2. Organise a street party It’s a lovely way to spend a summer evening – and if you don’t want to go to the hassle of getting the council to close the road, and if you have a park or green space nearby, you could always hold it there instead. Simply drop invitations through your neighbours’ doors, and organise a planning meeting. www.streetparty.org.uk • Play streets are back! What about turning your street into a play street? See londonplay.org.uk (let us know if you do it so we can report in Families…)

3. Plant a few seeds or a veggie grow-bag You don’t need any more space than a windowbox, or a tiny space in your yard, your kids will love deciding what to plant, sowing the seeds, remembering to water them and then charting their progress from seedling to stomach. Children love anything to do with nature.

4. Pitch a tent in the garden Nothing beats the excitement of a tent pitched in the garden or borrow one from a friend! Encourage the children to decorate it with cushions, blankets, books, iPods. And of course, lunch and tea can be picnics under canvas!

July/August 2011

13. Borrow a dog If your child is a dog lover, chances are that a dog would be a welcome guest – so why not invite one over, for the day or even for the weekend? To find your dog, just ask around: dog-owners need breaks too.

8. Go wild swimming...

14. Fly your kite

...or even, if your kids are tiny, wild paddling? Nothing beats the fresh, cool, vibrant feel of wild water on your face or even just between your toes. See www.wildswimming.co.uk. If you’re an abject townie who really can’t get to somewhere with a stream or river, make do with a lido instead. www.lidos.org

Most homes have at least one kite forgotten in a cupboard – or you can make your own, using dowelling and paper and glue. If you’re really keen, there are even professionals who’ll give you kite-flying lessons in windy spots across the country – see www.kitevibe.com

9. Try sand sculpture Sand sculpting is bigger than ever before – each summer, the papers groan with photographs of wonderfully-crafted figures, buildings and entire kingdoms on beaches near and far. Start with a flotsam and jetsam-collecting session, since this will add plenty of fuel to your ideas, and then set off.

10. Organise a rounders match Everyone loves a rounders match (or you can make it cricket). Simply phone a few other families, choose your day, and bring picnics for lunch. Make sure the teams are well-balanced in terms of age, ability etc, and play hard! It’s a wonderfully bonding experience.

11.

15. Go to a child friendly festival Some festivals are designed with families in mind. Carefully planned programming will include things like baby yoga and pre-school favourites, skate parks and chart-topping acts, toddler spaces, puppet shows, workshops, music and more. Check out festivalkidz.com See recommended family friendly festivals on www.familiessouthwest.co.uk Sorry no space in here. We also have an article on safe festivals for teens! RGandKidz

WILD! Outdoor This new book RUN es, published by tur ven Ad and s Game of great ideas! full is n, Frances Lincol

Fesival kidz

6. Go cycling Check out routes on www.sustrans.org.uk If you haven’t got any bikes, hire them out and exploring your neighbourhood in a whole new way. Get ready for cycling to school in September.

Row a boat

Everyone has a park with a boating lake somewhere within striking distance, so why not throw caution to the wind and try out the boats? Make sure the kids wear life jackets (which should be available from the hire attendant), and take it in turns to row (so what if you end up going round and round?

12. Go fishing Kids love fishing! If you know an adult who enjoys fishing, get your child to chat with them – or go to visit the local riverbank or lake where people fish, and let your child ask the fishing folk questions. If you and your child take up ‘proper’ fishing, you’ll need a licence from the Environment Agency (www.environment-agency.gov.uk). ®

See ideas for days out and events from our sister Families magazines at familiesonline.co.uk

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July/August 2011

Bilingual education since 1996 The French Nursery School For children from 2 years old to 5 years old. (Toddler group from 1yr) Morning or afternoon sessions available Full time sessions 9h - 15h

SW7 Queen's Gate SW1 Knightsbridge Group of international nursery schools

The Belgravia Nursery School Bilingual Nursery school French/ English. For children 2-5 years. (Toddler group from 1yr) Part time session 9h - 12h Full time session 9h - 15h • 15h35-17h

All schools have native language teachers, excellent facilities and lovely outside The Spanish Nursery School playground / garden.

SW7 and SW1 The Spanish out of school club for children For a brochure please call from 2 to 5 years old. Marie-Laurence Edmonstone Toddler Group from 1 year old 020 7259 21 51 marie-laurence@thefrenchnurseryschool.com

Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools WWW.DAWMOUSE.COM There are now two established Montessori Nursery schools in Fulham bearing the Dawmouse name. The original Dawmouse Brunswick in Haldane Road, SW6 7EU and Dawmouse St Peter’s at St Peter’s Terrace, SW6 7JS. Both schools offer a wide range of Montessori equipment and have outdoor play areas. They will offer a safe, stimulating and active environment in which children can have fun and achieve. The broad curriculum covers all areas of the Early Learning Goals and includes science, drama, cookery and music lessons. Project work will give the children scope for creative development as well as an increased understanding of their world. We insist on our staff being Montessori trained teachers. For a prospectus and a visit to view the schools please contact : www.dawmouse.com or speak with Miss Emma 020 7381 9385

July/August 2011

What’s on Compiled by Sophie M-C. Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline or we got it wrong...

DIARY DATES EVENTS FOR CHILDREN THE BEE’S KNEES AT BATTERSEA ART CENTRE Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5TN 020 7223 2223 www.bac.org.uk Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. A MAGICAL NEW INDOOR GARDEN CAFÉ for parents and under 5s filled with free activities and games. Sit and relax over lunch or tea & cake while your children explore and discover. Free. Babies facilities. Available to hire for birthday parties. Eddie Catz PUTNEY and WIMBLEDON 68-70 Putney High Street, London SW15 1SF and 42 Station Road, Merton SW19 2LP Playframe, Toddler & Baby area, Café, free WiFi, classes for under 5’s, Holiday Camps, free video games 0845 2011268 www.eddiecatz.com CRAFTY PINT WORKSHOPS Tooting Tram & Social, Mitcham Road, near Tooting Broadway, London SW17. First Sat of the month. 07792 776218. Bkg: www.craftypint.co.uk or Gillian@craftypint.co.uk Sat 3 Aug. FUSED GLASS MAKING. 10yrs+ with an adult. £15 all materials and tutorials included. WILDLIFE WATCH CLUB -WIMBLEDON COMMON. Meet on the first Sunday of each month at the information Centre, Wimbledon Common, near the Windmill. 10am12pm. 8-14yrs. £1 registration fee and £2 per session. 020 8540 6154 7 Aug. FIRE AND FOOD 4 Sept. NATURE’S PALETTE

THINGS TO DO EN FAMILLE UPBEAT ROCKS 2011 Imperial College (next to the Albert Hall) Saturday 9th July 7- 9pm. Held every year for the last 10 years and showcases 80 children onstage singing/dancing/ playing guitars and drums in bands. Upbeat music is a successful Saturday music school based in Parsons Green, this is always a unique performance experience. Children range from 5 - 14 (imagine how a 7 yr old band goes down!). www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk/music-video BUGGYTHON IN BATTERSEA PARK Wed 13 Jul. Battersea Park, South West London. 10am-12noon. UK’s first ever Buggython for willing Mums and Dads to come down to the park and push their buggies around a gentle 2.5km course. Bio-Oil is hosting this event to support the British Skin Foundation. Register on www.buggython.com , this event includes a minimum £10 donation to the BSF. Everyone who takes part will leave with a goodie bag! VENN STREET MARKET Sun 17 Jul in Hildreth Street, Balham SW12. Part of the WANDSWORTH’S FOOD AND DRINKS FESTIVAL taking place all over Balham.

This symbol means why not go by boat when visiting this place? Check out nearest piers etc on www.thamesclippers.com

LOVE PARKS WEEK 23-31 Jul. 91% of people believe that public parks and open spaces improve their quality of life; show your support for them with “Love Parks Week”. From Tai-Chi classes to jazz nights, urban street games to Teddy bear picnics, there’s an event for you! Please check full details on www.loveparksweek.org.uk ICKLE PICKLES CHARITY PARADE Tooting Bec Common (by Dr Johnson Avenue SW17 8JU) www.icklepickles.org Sun 31 Jul. 11am-5pm Funfair rides, bouncy castle, face painting, children’s entertainment, food and music, medieval stocks, beat the goalie, storytelling and much more... Ickle Pickles raises funds for life saving neonatal equipment for sick and premature babies. This year’s parade will raise money for St George’s Tooting. Eddie Catz supports this charity. CAPOEIRA FAMILY CLASSES The Old Bakery, Lower Richmond Road, London SW14 7HJ (behind the Morlake Training Centre) www.capoeirasurrey.co.uk bicudo@acercapoeira.com 07851764628 Every Saturday 11am-1pm. Brazilian martial art, acrobatics, dance, music, self defence.

EVENTS FOR ADULTS R.E.D.I Training 1 U2 Cooper House, 2 Michael Road, London SW6 2AD 020 7348 7117 www.redi-training.co.uk Tues eve in Fulham: Accident and Illnesses: 13 Jul Wed mornings in Fulham: Accident & Illnesses: 13 Jul FRIENDS OF TOOTING COMMON WALK www.friendsoftootingcommon.org.uk Sun 24 Jul. BIRD WALK Free guide walk. 4 hours, bring your own binoculars if you can, please no dogs or very young children. Meet at the Staff Yard at 8.30am. FIRST AID COURSES With Emma Hammett, Qualified Nurse, First Aid Trainer and local Mum. HSE and Qualsafe approved. Over 20 years of healthcare and teaching experience 020 8675 4036 emma@firstaidforlife.org.uk or www.firstaidforlife.org.uk EARLY YEARS FIRST AID COURSES Sat 9 Jul, Thurs 14 Jul and Sat 23 Jul. Ideal for Nannies and au pair too! SHORT EMERGENCY FIRST AID COURSE Thu 7 Jul and Sat 16 Jul. Covering CPR, recovery position and injuries in adults, babies and children. LANDMARK ARTS CENTRE AUGUST SUMMER ART SCHOOL Ferry Road, Teddington, Middlesex, TW11 9NN 020 8977 7558 www.landmarkartscentre.org Explore your creativity and improve your skills with an exciting range of short daytime art courses. Botanical Art, Life Drawing, Drawing for Beginners, Experimental Drawing, Felt Making or Summer Painting with Acrylics. Detailed courses descriptions can be obtained through the office.

The show is a one stop shop for anyone wanting to become a parent and provides information on all issues and potential avenues, assisting visitors in making informed decisions on parenting. With scheduled seminars and sessions on fertility treatment, co-parenting, surrogacy, adoption and fostering, legal issues surrounding parenting rights and ethics surrounding parenting by single people or gay couples. £8 online, £12 on the door.

DRAMA POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com MAIN THEATRE To 6 Aug. ALL JOIN IN..AND OTHER STORIES by Quentin Blake. Rhyme, rhythm and colourful characters all combine in this musical extravaganza inspired by some of Blake’s well-loved stories. It’s a toe-tapping, sing-along show, with plenty of chances to take part in the fun! £8 to £12. 4-7yrs. 6 Jul-20 Aug. ARCHAEOLOGY A WORM’S STORY A unique and playful performance specially created to ignite the imaginations of the very young with an invitation to explore the archaeological site afterward the show! 1-3yrs. SUMMER HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS Tue 26 Jul. ARCHAEOLOGY – A WORM’S STORY: THE BIG DIG WORKSHOP 3-4yrs: 9.30am-10.45am & 4-5yrs 11.15am-12.30pm. Find a map and go digging for buried treasure in this craft workshop. Wear old clothes! POLKA SUMMER SCHOOL Create your very own piece of theatre with our professional theatre makers and invite your friends and family watch you perform at the end of the week. Wed 27 Jul. BEHIND THE SCENES: SONGWRITER FOR A DAY 10am-3.30pm. With Polka’s Musical director, write lyrics and create songs, if you play an instrument bring it along. £25. 8-12yrs. Thu 28 Jul & Fri 29 Jul. SUMMERTIME STORIES 10.30am-12pm. A two-day interactive drama, music and craft workshop inspired by the summer. £30. 3-5yrs. Mon 8 - Fri 12 Aug. POLKA’S PUPPETEER SUMMER SCHOOL 10.30am-3.30pm. design your own puppet and create a story to share with family and friends. £90. 6-9yrs. Mon 1 Aug. BEHIND THE SCENES: BACKSTAGE WORKSHOP 10.30am-3pm. Learn all about lighting and sound, see how the props get made, operate the lights and the sound for your very own show. £35. 9-13yrs. Mon 15-Fri 19 Aug. BEHIND THE SCENES: MUSICAL SUMMER SCHOOL 10.30am-3.30pm. Great for anyone who wants to be involved in staging a musical production. Write and perform songs, devise a script, learn dance routines, work with our directors and technical team to stage your very own show. £90. 7-11yrs.

OPEN AIR THEATRE REGENT’S PARK

THE ALTERNATIVE FAMILIES SHOW www.alternativefamiliesshow.com Sat 17 Sept. 10am-5pm. Grand Connaught Rooms, 61-65 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5DA

Regent’s Park Inner circle, London NW14NU www.openairtheatre.org tickets info 0844 826 4242, other info 0844 375 3460 2 Jul -23 Jul. PERICLES by William Shakespeare. Reimagined for everyone aged 6 and over. The young prince, Pericles, takes to the high seas on a quest to discover the world. An odyssey adventure of shipwrecks, tournaments and of love lost, and found, this is a journey into adulthood and a celebration of family to enjoy together, All tickets £14, standard family package £44.

visit www.familiessouthwest.co.uk

July/August 2011

Please send info to our editor to be considered: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk (inclusion is free)

What’s on

VAUDEVILLE THEATRE

ABBEYFEST 2011

404 Strand, London WC2R 0NH 0844 412 4663 www.thetigerwhocamealive.com Wed 6 Jul-Sun 4 Sept. THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA Based on the award winning picture book by Judith Kerr, this delightful family show is packed with fun and perfect for developing literacy and listening skills, and audience participation is highly encouraged! 3yrs. £12.50/£15.50, premium seats £19.50.

Merton Abbey Mills. Merantum Way, SW19 2RD A wonderful show for families part of the Abbeyfest. ISOBEL’S TREE 4 Aug 2.30pm, 6 Aug 2.30pm & 7 Aug 2.30pm. £5/£7. www.wegottickets.com/event/120011

UNICORN THEATRE ************ 147 Tooley Street, Southwark, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com 6-8 Jul. CLASS ACTS. 5 YEAR ANNVERSARY FESTIVAL Join pupils from primary schools across London as they put their months of work into action and perform 6 specially commissioned plays. £2.50. 14-16 Jul. BALLET CENTRAL AND THE CENTRAL SCHOOL OF BALLET 6yrs+ Ballet Central has an exciting new programme of ballet, contemporary and jazz. Central School of Ballet’s End of Year performances showcase the talented Senior School dancers, who will be performing a variety of dance styles including ballet, contemporary, jazz and Spanish. £10.50/£16.50. 6-7 Aug. UNICORN SUMMER YOUTH THEATRE PRODUCTION Every summer 30 young people from the Unicorn youth theatre create original drama that dazzles the audience with its fiery theatrical imagination and collective heart. £3/£5. More info about any of the above projects and opportunities to get involved 020 7645 0511.

Learning through

Arts & Language

In the future the Earth is covered in junk, nature is on its last legs and Isobel has never seen a tree! As she meets new friends, they will take her on a journey back through time building the past with musical building blocks. They show her how the tree died out and what could have been done to prevent this! www.Munmunproductions.com

Sonnia 07946 529717 / 020 7450 3460

TARA STUDIO

THE COLOUR HOUSE THEATRE

356 Garratt Lane, Earlsfield, London SW9 9RD 020 8333 4457 www.tara-arts.com Thurs 28 – Sat 30 Jul. THE MAGIC SNAIL 10.30am & 1.30pm. Mischievous and fun, this snail turns “hide and seek” into something much more magical. Join the friends in their hilarious adventure. Can you solve the puzzle of the magic snail? Delightful performance, catchy songs, adorable puppets and one extraordinary snail! 3-7yrs and families. £7.50/£8.50.

Merton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way, SW19 2RD 020 8767 8886 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Tues 9- Sat 13 Aug (excluding Fri 12) THE QUEST FOR THE GOOGLY GLASSES £5/£7, family £20 Exploding from the pages of the Beano and performing before your very eyes! Encounter a world of wacky characters, odd ball escapades and countless close-shaves as Derek embarks on an intrepid journey to discover the true meaning of friendship.

For our online offering go to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/whatson

Cont. pg 30

Ravenna Road, Putney SW15 6AW 020 8788 6943 Wed 13 – Sat 16 Jul at 3pm. WIND IN THE WILLOWS by Kenneth Grahame, adapted by Alan Bennett. Join Moley as he discovers the dangerous and enchanting world of the wild wood. A tale filled with adventure, friendship and messing about in boats. A classic story Group 64 style! £7/£10, family £30.

July/August 2011

Thursdays 10-12noon All Saints Church, Lyham Road, SW2 5NP

RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond, TW9 1QJ. 0844 871 7651, www.ambassadortickets.com/richmond SHOW Fri 5 Aug. ROARY – THE RACING CAR 1pm & 3.30pm. The number 1 little racing car visits the Richmond Theatre in a brand new live stage! £15.50. COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS Sat 18 Jul. PLAY TIME! 10am-12pm. Fun, free family arts and crafts and storytelling. 4yrs+ and their family. Fri 3 Aug. FAMILY TOURS Take a peak behind the scenes and learn secrets of Richmond Theatre in this fun and informative tour. 8yrs+. £3/£5. Sat 5 Aug. PRE SHOW ARTS & CRAFTS – ROARY THE RACING CAR 12pm & 2.30pm. Free. Mon 8 – Fri 12 Aug. WEST END SUMMER SCHOOL 9.30am-4pm daily. £125 via the Box Office. Learn a variety of theatre skills, from songs and dance to mask making, take part in a backstage tour and perform onstage.

PUTNEY ART THEATRE

FREE Spanish and Arts for under 5s Arts, story time, songs and puppets.

Isobel Tree: AbbeyFest

from page 29

What’s on MERTON ABBEY MILLS KIDSFEST Merton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way, SW19 2RD Mon 29 Aug. A special day solely dedicated to kids. Great hands on workshops in art, crafts, pottery, music, drama, dancing, singing, balloon modelling, DJ skills and drumming. Soft play and storytelling areas, archaeological digging, relaxation sessions, kid’s fitness, rides, face painting and

This symbol means why not go by boat when visiting this place? Check out nearest piers etc on www.thamesclippers.com

FILM FUNDAY Sun 24 Jul. HORRID HENRY FUNDAY WORKSHOP 12.15pm Foyer. Can you create a character horrid enough to take on the incorrigible Henry? Draw us pictures and tell us all the naughty adventures your character will go on. With all the usual Funday competitions and prizes. Sun 24 Jul. FUNDAY PREVIEW: HORRID HENRY: THE MOVIE IN 3D (UK 2011) 2.15pm NFT1. After years of seeing Henry animated on TV, come and see him in live action on the big screen in 3D. Some cast members will join us for a Q&A following the screening. £6.50/£9.50, under 16s £5.

NATIONAL THEATRE ************ South Bank, London SE1 9PX www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/wts 1 Jul – 11 Sept. WATCH THIS SPACE Join this free festival in Theatre Square for theatre, circus, fire, juggling, music, dance and street performance. July highlights include FAMILY WEEK, which begins the first week of the school holidays. Expect musicians and circus performers, monkeys on a trampoline in a mini,

SUMMER PROGRAMME FOR THE BARBICAN CINEMA

Kidfest caricaturing. Visits from the animals at Dean City farm, the local Fire Brigade, the Police and St Johns Ambulance. On the Bandstand there will be great musical entertainment with performances by children and special guests with talent competitions, giveaways and a few surprises thrown in!! The whole day is FREE

SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE ************ Bank Side, 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT 020 7902 1400 www.shakespeares-globe.com To 21 Aug. ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL by William Shakespeare. Grinds the romantic against the realistic at every turn and brilliantly reverses all the usual expectations of Shakespearean comedy. To 1 Oct. MUCH ADO ABOUTH NOTHING by William Shakespeare. Box Office for the whole season: 020 7401 9919/0871 297 0749 or online. Please check the website for full detail of the performances.

BFI SOUTHBANK

www.barbican.org.uk/film Box Office 0845 120 7527 or www.barbican.org.uk/artgallery The main focus is animation, with the “WATCH ME MOVE - ON THE BIG SCREEN” season, which compliments the Barbican Art Gallery’s Watch Me Move exhibition. In July the programme ranges from the work of Czech animators to Japanese animations with a STUDIO GHIBLI retrospective and much more. In August the Barbican Cinema moves to Canada Square Park in Canary Wharf for outdoor screenings organised in partnership with the CREATE 11 festival. The season ends in Sept with THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL ANIMATION FESTIVAL, which comes to the Barbican for the first time.

KIDS WEEK IN THE WEST END www.kidsweek.co.uk 12-26 Aug. One child (aged between 5 and 16) can go absolutely free to any participating show when accompanied by a full paying adult, and another two children can go for half price. Choose between the hottest tickets in town with new shows and much-loved longrunning favourites. Kids Week also offers free workshops designed to engage and inspire the next generation of theatre lovers: West End dance or vocal workshops and behind scenes tours will be available. Booking line opens mid-July.

FESTIVALS, EVENTS AND DAYS OUT .

THE DISNEY 50 AT THE BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE 020 7928 3232 www.bfi.org.uk/ southbank £6.75/£9.50, family £20. Every weekend throughout 2011, the Disney heritage will be gloriously showcased, spanning seventy years of films that combine beautiful artistry, masterful storytelling and ground breaking technology. Two new tickets offers for Disney fans: “Disney 50 Pass” and “Family Ticket” check the website for more info.

SOUTHBANK CENTRE ************ www.southbankcentre.co.uk To 4 Sept. FESTIVAL OF BRITAIN WITH MASTERCARD Celebrating the 60th anniversary of Festival of Britain with a four months festival of British culture and creativity. Experience performances, new outdoor environments, talks, events, concerts and gigs by some of Britain’s leading artists and thinkers.

“Watch this Space” National Theatre Spanish Theatre with Captain Marvella and mini Circus with Circo Rippopollo. A wonderful range of family entertainment . In August there will be invigorating juggling involving paintballs, street theatre, music, comedy and free dance lessons. Also THE ALTERNATIVE VILLAGE FETE by home Live Art with their urban twist on traditional fetes for the Bank Holiday Weekend.

STREATHAM FESTIVAL 2011 Top of the Common, Streatham Common South www.streathamfestival.com Sat 2 Jul-Sun 10 Jul. 1pm-6pm, free. A fantastic week of Arts Events, with a programme of over forty events from comedy, film visual art, photography, literature, food, music and dance, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This year the festival celebrates its 10th year and the theme for 2011 is “Earth”, expect a wide range of creative ideas and activities to celebrate the planet. Sat 9 Jul evening. WORLD SOUND CONCERT St Leonard’s Church, 8 Tooting Bec Gardens.

ABBEYFEST 2011 Merton Abbey Mills, London SW19 2RD www.abbeyfest.co.uk 8 Jul – 29 Aug. The summer festival of Music, Comedy and theatre in South London is now in its 14th year and as always its theme “Keep it alive” is once again very much alive this year! It creates the opportunity for many new aspiring and established actors, performers, musicians, writers and directors to have a platform to showcase their work. It’s all about being entertaining, having fun and being accessible for all the family.

visit www.familiessouthwest.co.uk for What's On

July/August 2011

Please send info to our editor to be considered: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk (inclusion is free)

THE KENSINGTON PALACE PARTY Kensington Palace, Greater London 0844 4827777 8-10 Jul. 12noon-6pm. A party filled with dancing, storytelling, fashion and art activities, inspired by the stories of Kensington. Free and great fun for people of all ages. 15 Jul. Late opening until 9pm. ENCHANTED PALACE AT NIGHT. Experience the dazzling spectacle of the Enchanted Palace after dark. 24 Jul. A MUSICAL PARTY AT COURT 10am-1pm. A morning of royal music making in this family workshop and learn to play a piece of 18th century music fit for a king. Adult £5, child £15. Bkg: 020 3166 6646.

What’s on

PROMS PLUS FAMILY (7yrs+) Offers imaginative and interactive ways to explore the music of the Proms, where participants can bring along their own instruments, play alongside professional musicians and explore the stories behind the music. Highlights include: Sat 27 Aug. 1pm-3pm. PROMS PLUS FAMILY ORCHESTRA AND CHORUS Royal College of Music. Mozart and Beethoven session. Mon 29 Aug. 1pm-3pm. PROMS PLUS FAMILY ORCHESTRA AND CHORUS Royal College of Music. Hollywood Magic. Full booking details for all events please visit the website.

LEEDS CASTLE SOUTHBANK CENTRE ************ Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX 0844 875 0073 Thurs 14 –Sun 17 Jul. STREET DANCE XXL UK CHAMPIONSHIPS COME TO SOUTHBANK AS PART OF WEEKEND OF HIP-HOP CULTURE. www.southbankcentre.co.uk/hiphop “Intelligent Movement” : A celebration of hip-Hop Culture in association with Channel 4. A weekend exploring the four pillars of Hip-Hop – Djing, MCing, Brealing and Graffiti – as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations of the Festival of Britain with Mastercard.

ENGLISH HERITAGE PICINIC CONCERTS www.picnicconcerts.com 0845 658 6960 Gather a group of friends and family and enjoy the worldclass music, relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking settings of Kenwood House and Audley End. KENWOOD HOUSE Hampstead Lane, Hampstead, London NW3 7JR. Highlights include: Fri 15 Jul MUSIC FROM THE MOVIES Sat 16 Jul JAMES BLUNT AUDLEY END Audley End House, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4JF. Highlights include: Sat 23 Jul THE SATURDAYS Sat 30 Jul TOM JONES Sun 31 Jul LAST NIGHT OF THE AUDLEY END PROMS starring KATHERINE JENKINS

BBC PROMS FOR FAMILIES

Picture credit: Chris Christodoulou

www.bbc.co.uk/proms Fri 15 Jul-Sat 10 Sept. Horrible Histories, Human Planet and family Orchestra – as the Proms offer more ways than

Seven miles east of Maidstone and clearly signposted from junction 8 of the M20. £11/£16/£18.50, under 4s free. 01622 765400 or www.leeds-castle.com The beautiful moated castle is set in 500 acres of tranquil parkland and has a rich 1,000 year history, making it an ideal day out throughout the year. 16 Jul. THE LEEDS CASTLE OPEN AIR CLASSICAL CONCERT John Rigby conducts the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra in a programme of classical favourites, plus, display from two classic World War II aircraft, a Hurricane and an American P-51D Mustang “Big Beautiful Doll”. Access to concert site from 3pm. Live music from 5pm, main concert 7.30pm. Picnic £35; seated £45. 17 Jul. LIVE AT LEEDS CASTLE Major outdoor music event with The Wanted, Eliza Doolittle, Stacey Solomon & Aggro Santos. Access to the concert from 4pm. £27.50 28-30 Jul. 7pm. SHAKESPEARE’S A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM £12/£15. 12-14 Jul. 5pm. CHILDREN’S THEATRE “SNOW WHITE” Families can bring a picnic and enjoy a fairy-tale summer evening with ice-cream and drinks available. £10/£12 26 Aug. 6pm. OPEN AIR CINEMA “SOME LIKE IT HOT Bring a picinic and enjoy a sunset performance by a live jazz band playing the songs from the film. Bkg: www.whereisthenomad.com £12/£15. 27-28 Aug. 5pm. CHILDREN’S THEATRE “WIND IN THE WILLOWS” Families can bring a picnic and follow Ratty, Mole, Badger and Mr Toad on their adventures in this interactive summer event. £10/£12. 3 & 4 Sept. BALLOONS AND BENTLEYS a celebration of travel from the Edwardian era to the 1930s. Hot air balloons, steam engines, boats and veteran cars, plus a craft fair.

Hop Farm Camp Hop BBC Proms

July/August 2011

HOP FARM FAMILY PARK Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PY www.thehopfram.co.uk 01622 872 068 Daily 10am-5pm, from £10.80 for children. 25 Jul-31 Aug. CAMP HOP Six weeks of holiday fun with activities inspired by the most famous West End and Broadway Musicals, including: a daily music and dance show on the new outside staging area inspired by the hit TV series Glee, musical sing-a-longs, dance and cheerleading master classes, learn to play musical instruments workshops and American ballgames such as basketball. There is also a new summer outdoor activity area featuring an inflatable assault course, bouncy castle, pedal go-karts and Frisbee golf.…

See also www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/whatson

...cont page 32

ever for families to learn about classical music. Seats for all Proms concerts across the season are half price to under 16s (except on the Last Night) and Proms Plus offers lots of ways for children and families to get involved for free. Highlights include: Sat 23 Jul 1pm-5pm. HUMAN PLANET IN THE PARK Kensington Gardens in Hyde Park. An afternoon of music from around the world on the Human Planet in the Park stage. Sat 30 Jul 11am-1pm. HORRIBLE HISTORIES FREE FAMILY PROM Royal Albert Hall. Free Prom collaborates with CBBC’s hit television series “Horrible Histories” for the first time to create a spectacular live show. Free tickets available from 8 Jul.

from page 31

What’s on …Superb touring and camping park set in 500 acres of beautiful Kent countryside for families who want to stay the weekend. Check the website for full details.

SUMMER OPENING OF THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT ************ 29 Jul-3 Sept and 19 Sept-1Oct. £10/£15, under 16s £6 0844 847 1672 www.ticketmaster.co.uk/housesofparliament The tours take in the Lords and Commons Chambers plus other highlights such as Westminster Hall, the Queen’s Robing Room, the Royal Gallery, Peer’s Lobby, Members’ Lobby and St Stephen’s Hall. The tours now also include six vast paintings depicting the Spanish Armada.

This symbol means why not go by boat when visiting this place? Check out nearest piers etc on www.thamesclippers.com

and Sun, incl Bank Hol weekend). The knights and their Ladies bring to life the colourful middle ages with tales and demonstrations. Family fun and spectacular reenactement.

LONDON DUCK TOURS 020 7928 3132 or www.londonducktours.co.uk London Duck Tours is a sightseeing company that offers

LOLLIBOP FESTIVAL Regent’s Park, London NW8 7RG www.lollibopfestival.com 5, 6, 7 Aug. Some amazing entertainment from the best loved kids performers such as : Zingzillas, Charlie and Lola, Horrible Histories, Dick and Dom, Waybuloo, the Bopps, The Roald Dalh Museum, Science Museum “Live”, Minimission with Baby Loves Disco and many more..Also: facepainting, arts and crafts, comedy, Babyoke, hairdressing, go karting, pizza making workshops, football factory, an enchanted forest with wizard & fairy schools, DJ workshops and even gorilla enclosure. Single ticket (adult or child) in advance £23, at the gate £30. Family ticket (4 people) in advance £80, at the gate £108. £1 in every ticket is donated to Oxfam.

TOWER OF LONDON ************ Tower Hill, London EC3 Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-5.30pm 0844 482 7799 www.hrp.org.uk £10.45/£17.05/£19.80, family £55, under 5 free. Events included in adm. EXHIBITIONS To 24 Jul. RAREE SHOW (with Royal Beasts!) The Menagerie 1250-1850. Be introduced to the wonders of nature, the bizarre, the incredible and the frankly unbelievable, as the “raries” and the “Curiosities” of the tower throughout the ages are revealed. SUMMER EVENTS 23-24 Jul. TOWER OF LONDON ARCHAEOLOGY AND DISCOVERY WEEKEND Tower Beach and Wharf. 11am-4pm. Beach open: Sat 23: 12.30pm-2.30pm; Sun 24: 1.15pm3.15pm. a free, fun weekend of activities. Hunt for treasure on the foreshore of the Thames, discover the secrets of archaeology and conservation at stalls on the Wharf and take part in art activities. All ages. 25 Jul-31 Aug. KNIGHT SCHOOL (Mon to Thurs, except Mon Bank Hol) Learn the skills to become a noble knight. 29 Jul-29 Aug. MASTERS OF THE SWORD (Fri, Sat

tours from a fleet of bright yellow amphibious vehicles originally used for the D.Day landings in 1944. It is the only sightseeing tour that combines a trip on land and river. THE D.DAY DUCK TOUR. In a lively, entertaining and informative adventure suitable for all the family, a professional character tour guide will reveal London’s most important Second World War sights. This tour will operate the first Sunday of every month. £16 to £22. BRAND NEW TOUR: THE JAMES BOND TOUR! Discover many central London locations used in the classic film series. A character guide will lead visitors on an adventure-packed journey of intrigue, espionage, and of course Ian Fleming, revealing many little known facts about the famous author, his greatest creation and spying in general. The tour will operate on the 3rd Sunday of every month.

EXHIBITIONS & MUSEUMS

SCIENCE MUSEUM Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk Open 10am-6pm. Info & bkg 0870 870 4868. Adm is free but charges apply to some special exhibitions, IMAX cinema and simulator rides 23 Jul-31 Aug. SPACE CAMPAIGN. Daily events. Space at the Science Museum is the summer holiday destination of choice. When arriving at the Museum visitors will be welcomed to space and will be encouraged to check into space on facebook, pass through passport control and travel through different areas of space across the Museum. Each part of space they visit will help them complete their passport. Lots of space fun all around the Museum!

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road, London SW7. 020 7938 9123. Open: Mon-Sat: 10am – 5.50pm Sun: 11am-5.50pm. Info: Mon-Fri 020 7942 5000. Sat & Sun 020 7942 5011. Free. www.nhm.ac.uk

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HT 020 7730 0717 www.nam.ac.uk Daily 10am-5.30pm. Free

Day Nurs er

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London Duck Tour

EXHIBITIONS: To 4 Sept. AGE OF THE DINOSAUR Combining stunning imagery with amazing specimens and interactives. £6/£10, family £28. To 11 Sept. SENSATIONAL BUTTERFLIES Experience the sensory world of butterflies, explore the five different sensory zones of sight, smell, taste hearing and touch. £3.50, family £12. ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES HANDS-ON NATURE: DINAUSAURS 2pm-5pm. Sats, Suns and School Hol. Visit the handling trolley in “Lasting Impressions” and take a closer look at some interesting specimens with the help of science educators. Free. DAILY FAMILY ACTIVITES 11am-5pm. Mon-Fri in term time. Free. Younger visitors can pick up an Explorer backpack and take a mini adventure around the Museum. Don’t miss the Dippy floor puzzle, perfect for under 8’s. Complete the puzzle of the 26-metre long “diplodocus” and you’ll get a funky Dippy sticker! INVESTIGATE CENTRE 11am-5pm. Mon-Fri in term time. Encourages children to look closely at real objects using the many tools provided to find out more and become a scientist for the day. EVENTS FOR FAMILIES: check the full listing on www.nhm.ac.uk/whats-on DINO SNORES: Starts 22 Jul at 7pm, finishes 23 Jul at 9.50am. Investigate the Museum’s nocturnal nature and learn more about extinct creatures and deadly bugs. Visitors will take a torch-lit tour into the darkest depths of the galleries to discover clues and solve a nature puzzle. At midnight, snuggle down for the night in the iconic Central Hall and shadow of “Diplodocus”. In the morning, breakfast will be served before more activities. 8-11yrs. Each booking must include a minimum of 5 children in the group to be accompanied by a maximum of 3 adults. Visitors must have a proper meal before attending and bring a snack for later in the evening. Children £45, adults free. 020 7942 5000.

For children (2-5) Full/part time vacancies * * * * * *

Bright well-resourced centre Pre-school education guaranteed Flexible hours/days Children in small groups Offers French, dance & swimming Positive emphasis on physical education * Very good OFSTED report

To view call 020 8675 Limited spaces

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Yukon Rd. Balham Hill Estate, Balham Hill, SW12 9DN

visit www.familiessouthwest.co.uk for What's On

July/August 2011

Please send info to our editor to be considered: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk (inclusion is free)

From 18 Jul. NEW KID’S ZONE An exciting new space for children 0-8yrs where then can climb, crawl and slide through tough terrain, wrestle through woodland and build their own den in out new adventure climbing frames and soft-play areas. The brand new dressing-up, art and reading areas will help children to explore and expand their imaginations. Also a safe and stimulating baby play-area. Sat 27 Aug. VICTORY JIVE – DANCE NIGHT The whole family can get their dancing shoes on and hit the dance-floor with an authentic ‘40s dance night. With fantastic dance instructors from the London Swing Dance Society and authentic ‘40s hair and make-overs!

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200, www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Daily 10am-5.45pm. Free. EXHIBITION To 4 Sept. A RETROSPECTIVE OF WORK BY JUDITH KERR See original artwork and sketches (such as “The Tiger Who Came To Tea”) and her childhood drawing which will be on display for the first time. There will also be a replica kitchen where children can play at having tea with a life-size tiger. SPECIAL EVENT Sun 7 Aug. SUMMER FESTIVAL 11.30am-4.30pm. Enjoy live music and performance, explore a range of stalls selling delicious homemade cakes, toys and games, and take part in all the usual festival favourites. Drop-in. all ages. SUMMER HOLIDAY FUN: FUNKY FRIDAYS Fri 29 Jul. MOG WITH JUDITH KERR 2.30pm3.15pm. Join much-loved author for some reading and book signing. Bkg from Mon 18 Jul. All ages. Fri 12 Aug. TIGER TEA PARTY 12noon-4pm. With lipsmacking tea tasting, tiger face painting and tiger themed arts & crafts. Drop-in. all ages. Fri 19 Aug. FELINE FESTIVAL 12noon-4pm. Dress up as a cheetah, tiger, lion or leopard then swing down your tail on our “Cat Walk” for the chance to win a prize. Dropin. All ages. Fri 26 Aug. SKETCH, SCRIBBLE, SQUIGGLE 12noon-4pm. Be inspired by Rebecca Fortnum’s portraits of children, then dabble in an afternoon of sketching and drawing. Drop-in. All ages.

THE HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY MUSEUM ************ Horse Guards, Whitehall, London SW1A 2AX www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk Daily 10am-6pm. £4/£6, family £15. SUMMER FAMILY FUN Mon 25- Wed 31 Aug. PLAY DETECTIVE Take part in a fun detective trail and family quiz and find out about all sorts of unusual and interesting things to do with the household Cavalry. Mon 25 to Fri 29 Jul and Mon 1 Aug to Fri 5 Aug.

July/August 2011

What’s on

CRAFT ACTIVITIES Free for children with an accompanying paying adult. Small charge for material, prebooking recommended. Tue 26 Jul, Mon 1 & 8 Aug, Wed 17 Aug. STORYTELLING Stories about the Household Cavalry and their magnificent horses. 5-8yrs. Book early 020 7930 3070.

HORNIMAN MUSEUM 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ 020 8699 1872 www.horniman.ac.uk Daily 10.30am-5.30pm, £1/£2, family £5. LOTS OF CHILDREN’S AND FAMILY ACTIVITIES. Some highlights. Check the website for a full programme. Every Sat from 2 Jul to 24 Sept. HANDS ON FAMILY WORKSHOP 11.45am-12.30pm & 1pm-1.45pm. Touch real Museum objects from all over the world. 3yrs+. Free Every Sun from 3 Jul to 25 Sept and every Tue from 26 Jul to 30 Aug. DISCOVERY FOR ALL 2pm-3.30pm. How sharp are shark’s teeth? How do you wear a sari? Explore thousands of objects from around the world in these drop-in sessions. 3yrs+. Wed 17 Aug. FALCONRY FLIGHT DISPLAY 2pm2.45pm & 3.15pm-4pm. A thrilling live falconry display that showcases some of the most amazing birds of prey. Everyone welcome, children must be accompanied by an adults. Do not bring dogs.

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM

exhibition “Archaeology in Action” discover some of London’s deeply buried secrets including finds from recent excavations across the capital. Free, 7yrs+. Fri 19 Aug. ARCHAEOLOGY UP AND CLOSE – EXCAVATING ARCHAEOLOGY 12noon-4pm. This session unearths the secrets of how archaeologists and archivists from the Museum date, interpret and study artefacts from London sites. 5yrs+. Free.

MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS ************ West India Quay, E14 4AL 020 7001 9844. Open daily 10am-6pm. THE PIRATE GRACE O’MALLEY Sat 23 Jul 12.30pm1pm, 2.30pm-3pm & 3.30pm-4pm. Hear the story of this famous pirate, Ireland’s very own pirate Queen. 4yrs+. Free. PIRATE WATERCOLOUR PAINTING Sat 30 Jul 11am-3pm. Join us to create beautiful watercolour paintings with pirate theme. 3yrs+. Free. ROBIN HOOD AND THE PIRATES Tues 9 Aug 12.30pm-1pm, 2.30pm-3pm & 3.30pm-4pm. The legendary Robin Hood even fought pirates off the English Coast. Join us to hear this and other dashing stories of derring-do.

Information for What’s On send to whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Threadneedle Street, London EC2R 8AH 020 7601 5545 www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. Free. 25 Jul-2 Sept. COME WRITE WITH US Children will be given blank books, images of the Museum displays and colouring materials to write their own story, plus all the Museum’s attraction including banknote jigsaws, an inflation roller-ball game or a virtual air balloon. Activity sheets for children of all ages are available with a small prize to win. Activities are free.

The MUSEUM OF LONDON and MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS are having family fun Victorian style this May. Please visit the websites for full details of children activities. www.museumoflondon.org.uk and www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands

MUSEUM OF LONDON London Wall, EC2Y 5HN 020 7001 9844. Open daily 10am-6pm 16-31 Jul. FESTIVAL OF BRITISH ARCHAEOLOGY. Lots of workshops for families and children. Check the full listing on the website. ROMAN ARCHAEOLOGY IN ACTION Mon 18 Jul 2pm-2.20pm, Tue 19 Jul 2pm-2.20pm, Wed 27 Jul 2pm2.20pm & Thurs 28 Jul 2pm-2.20pm. Around the

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ÂŠFamilies Magazine

July/August 2011