Families London SW Mar-April 2021 issue 304 print

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Easter activities Prep school feature Boost your child’s mood Staycations Issue 304 March/April 2021

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Time to get our bicycles out!

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e’ve been indoors too much, why not get those bikes out of the shed and get going? I love my bike and honestly wonder why people are denying themselves the pleasure of cycling! If you feel a bit rusty or need extra confidence, here are a few tips for those of you taking on this important project.

Teach in short sessions: Do not overtire your children or they may be put off cycling. 30 minutes at a time is enough for young children. Finish the session on a high, even if they haven’t managed to pedal unaided, and stop when boredom or frustration set in.

Location: It is best to use a hard, level surface, rather than grass. Ideally, choose somewhere with a gentle slope.

Make sure the location is traffic-free but keep an eye out for pedestrians and animals.

Bike setup: Check the rider’s clothing is appropriate and the helmet fits correctly with the straps not too loose or too tight. It should be seated over the front of the rider’s head.

movements for turning. Make sure the rider can reach the brake levers and can put their feet comfortably on the ground when seated on the saddle. Lower the saddle if necessary to the lowest setting.

Braking: The best way for children to grasp the concept of braking is for them to walk alongside the bike with their hands in position and attempt to use the brakes in this way.

Scooting: Ask the rider to let go of the brakes and start scooting. They should use the bike like a hobby horse and push along the ground using their feet.

Balance: Use a balance bike or take the pedals and stabilisers off a normal bike. Stabilisers are not recommended when children are learning to ride as they will learn the wrong weight distribution and arm

Supporting: Whilst they are learning to pedal you may need to support them. Hold them gently under the arms or by gently holding the middle section of the back of your child's top.

Super useful local links * Wandsworth Council offer several types of cycle training and is highly recommended!

Children must be aged 5 or over, and the sessions will cater to the needs of the leastable cyclist in the family. Lessons are two hours, and each participant must provide their own, roadworthy bike. The Council training is totally free to those who live, work, or study in Wandsworth. www.wandsworth.gov.uk/roads-andtransport/transport/cycling/cycle-training-and-skills/ * CycleStreets is a not-for-profit organisation which provides a free to use national journey planner, which includes many London Cycling Network routes. Free mobile app is available. wandsworth.cyclestreets.net * Watch this series of 13 'commute smart' short clips on YouTube (British Cycling) on how to position yourself on the road correctly, negotiate simple junctions, be safe etc. http://bit.ly/3qWaDoX * Try Before You Bike is a flexible bike scheme where you can try a bike from £20 (adults) a month / e-bike from £100 a month, Babboe from £100 a month and even trailers from £15 a month. If you fall in love with your bike (you will!) you can buy it at a reduced price. Free induction. www.peddlemywheels.com/try-before-you-bike * How safe is your bike? Advice by the Met Police on keeping your bike safe and out of the hands of thieves and what to do to try to get it back if it is stolen. http://bit.ly/Howsafeisyourbike * Info on cycling safety, cycling tips, how to repair a puncture and more by Transport for London (TFL) and free cycle skills training for all abilities. tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling * If you are tempted to cycle to work check out the bike to work scheme: you can get an electric bike at a significantly reduced price. It’s not too late to register for the scheme, or to ask your employer to sign up. https://www.bike2workscheme.co.uk/

Mood lifting, fresh air, exercise, zero emission and great savings: cycling is in!

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Balham in Bloom 2021 Residents and businesses are invited to take part in Balham’s Get planting.. first ever competition. Balham in Bloom will involve the and make sure whole community and encourage the beautification of to involve your Balham through living floral displays.

children!

Competition entries for the first Balham in Bloom are now open and include the following categories…

* Best residential front garden * Best residential window box * Best residential hanging basket Enter before the 1st June 2021 Presentation on 26th June 2021 Competitors will be judged by a carefully selected panel of experts and community figures. Prizes will be awarded for the winner and runner-up of each category. Residential entry is free.

To register for Balham in Bloom 2021 go to https://beautifybalham.org Beautify Balham encourages the residents and businesses of Balham to be actively responsible for their shared outdoor environment through tree planting, gardening, litter picking and campaigning for a greener, cleaner and more beautiful Balham.

Please check their Instagram page for regular updates on Litter Picks.

In collaboration with @balham_street_gardeners, who are currently recruiting volunteers. Get involved!

Love Wimbledon’s local market on The Piazza has returned!

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ith street foods from around the world, artisan bread, pastries and a variety of home-baked foods on offer, the market is bursting with great cuisine to keep the most discerning foodie happy.

6–7 March, 2–3 April, 1–2 May, 5–6 June, 26–27 June. https://lovewimbledon.org/monthly-markets/

Featuring popular and much-loved stallholders who are making a return like Olivier’s Bakery, Little Greece and LusoBrazil, as well as some new faces.

The market is single-use plastic-free, where possible, bring a bag, your contactless card and #LoveYourLocalMarket.

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March/April 2021 • Families South West 5

10

BABY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES YOU NEED NOW

Raising a baby can be hard work, and a lot of decision making.

Families has tried to make it a bit easier with 10 great products and services to make that first year a bit easier!

1. The Shnuggle.

Parents can breathe a little easier during bath time. Suitable for newborns, the tub can support little bodies with a bum bump to prevent sliding and is comfortable up to 12 months plus. With a plug to empty and a compact size its easy to use and store. Bath time is now comfy and cozy for little ones and a lot easier for mums and dads. www.shnuggle.com

Why we love it: “We used it for bath, but also any sensory play where he could be in a sitting position,” Roving Mum Adelyne.

2. First aid for life.

The Shnuggle

First aid is an essential life skill, and even more so when you have babies and toddlers who are still exploring their world. First Aid for Life covers all the common first aid emergencies that can happen in those early years and gives you the confidence to face any situation. www.firstaidforlife.org.uk

Why we love it: “We did a baby first aid course in which they taught us about resuscitation and what to do if a baby or child is choking… a must for all parents.” Roving Mum Daniella.

3. Childs farm moisturizer.

Made from natural and naturally derived ingredients, Childs farm moisturizer is both deeply moisturizing and hydrating to the skin.

With its own unique fragrance, it can be used right from the newborn stage. A bottle is sold every 20 seconds in the UK! www.childsfarm.com

Why we love it: Works on super dry skin, including eczema.

First aid for life

Childs farm moisturizer

4. Meal delivery.

Those first few weeks home with a new baby can be stressful and overwhelming. Make mealtimes a bit easier by setting up meal delivery ahead of time. www.cookfood.net will deliver all kinds of frozen meals right to your door, ready when you are.

Why we love it: A great meal delivery service can take some of the pressure off when it comes to deciding what to eat.

6 Families South West • March/April 2021

Let Cookfood save the day!

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5. Laundry service.

With www.oxwash.com, your laundry is picked up, washed, ironed and folded and delivered back to you clean and smelling great.

Take care of the piles of dirty baby clothes and burp cloths without the burden of washing them yourself. With the recycling water process Oxwash uses, you’re also doing a great thing for our planet.

Why we love it: It’s just one more load taken off your mind so you can focus your attention on your new baby.

6. A great changing bag.

Changing backpack Done by Deer

Babies and toddlers need a lot of stuff to go out, so why not pack it away in a changing bag that’s both stylish and functional? Done by Deer’s Changing Backpack is full of inner pockets for organization as well as adjustable straps, a changing mat and two stroller hooks.

A bit of rain? No problem as the bag is completely waterproof! www.donebydeer.com

Baby Mori more than your average muslin

Why we love it: “38 PET bottles are recycled when manufacturing both the outer fabric and inner lining, equalling 100% recycled polyester,” Done by Deer.

7. Your go-to Baby-friendly café.

Every mum needs to get out now and again, even with baby in tow.

Some places are better than others for a relaxing break with baby.

Give Cheeky Chicos, Bliss Café or The Toast Rack a try for some great eats and relaxing atmosphere in SW London.

Why we love it: Getting out can make a new mum feel so good and having a place to relax with baby makes it that much better.

8. Muslin swaddle.

A good versatile muslin can be an essential part of your baby gear. Not only can it be used for swaddling, but can double up as a pushchair cover, breastfeeding cover or light blanket at night. Baby Mori’s Organic Muslin Swaddle offers breathable, organic cotton. www.babymori.com

Why we love it: “Fab to cover your pram when it’s bright outside,

breastfeeding in public…it’s small to keep in your baby bag or in your pram pockets,” Roving Mum Adelyne.

9. NCT.

The NCT for mums and mums-to-be

You local NCT group is there for a reason, so use it as much as you can to help you out. They offer support, information, workshops and the chance to meet and bond with other mums in the same stage of parenthood as you. www.nct.org.uk.

Why we love it: So many resources, all in one place!

10. A Nappy Service.

A good nappy service can provide you with a full kit of cloth nappies and supplies to last as long as you need. Check out www.southlondonnappies.org that offers kits from newborn into toddler years as well as advice on using cloth nappies.

Why we love it: Cloth nappies are a great decision for the environment, and your wallet.

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Washable nappies do not end up on landfill sites

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Full STEAM ahead at Parsons Green Prep

By Matthew Faulkner, headmaster The world of education is no stranger to acronyms and, as with everyone else, these tend to get longer with every passing year (anyone remember PSE?). The latest subject to grow in this way is STEAM (formerly STEM). So what is this new letter? A is for Art, and we welcome it to the team, recognising that the previous STEM focus (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) wasn’t sufficient.

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e have heard for many years that the workplace is changing and that the workers of the future will require quite different skills to the workers of today. Schools have been quick to react, removing subjects from distinct silos and amalgamating them into things such as Humanities and Creative Learning. In addition to these subjects, chess is a daily activity, taught by the talented Viv Richardson; children and parents value it hugely for all the strategic and planning skills it draws out. And now STEAM is coming right to the fore. This subject combines the skills of research, creativity, planning, prediction and improvisation, to name but a few.

Engaged and eager to learn At Parsons Green Prep we already devote significant curriculum time to these subjects.

PGP’s move to carbon neutrality within three STEAM subjects encourage children to become years. From counting the recycling bins to confident in accepting challenges, in identifying appropriate locations for solar researching and collaborating. We panels, everybody has a role to play and want our children to be able to Children with different children will contribute, stress-test think for themselves, and feedback on different areas of research. an aptitude for confidently hypothesise, By raising the profile of STEAM further, we STEAM will be in accurately analyse data and wish to stimulate the brain, giving it a free hot demand in the rein to create, rather than simply to text, synthesise information accurately and apply their workplace of the replicate what is already known; to enhance knowledge to new situations. our children’s critical thinking skills so they future.

They should learn to deal with are able to draw on a wide range of sources unexpected results and be adept at and develop sophisticated study skills. starting all over again without missing a beat.

Why adding Art into STEM? Most importantly they need to be engaged and The addition of Art to the quartet is a welcome actively involved in their learning and able to and long overdue one. All the work done in challenge their own understanding of the world.

STEAM is inherently artistic. The quest for Some challenges reside within discrete elegant solutions to practical problems runs lessons (building a balloon powered car, for throughout our current work. Art underpins example), whereas others are school-wide and both the form and the function of everything we open ended. This year the whole school is create. To quote Steve Jobs, ‘design is not just involved in investigating and contributing to

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what it looks and feels like. Design is how it works’. Mathematical concepts as art are evident all around us, from the snowflake to the shell of a snail to the Corinthian Column. Every successful design is a combination of function and aesthetic and both are essential to the products we make and the services they perform.

So we are delighted to add the A to the team.

At PGP we are developing the designs for our new STEAM room, to run alongside the new playground also in development. Due to open in September 2022, the architects are working in conjunction with Lucinda Waring, the founder.

Samantha Porter is leading this STEAM initiative, ably supported by our Science coordinator and head of KS2 Phoebe James and our Year 6 teacher and head of pastoral, Ryan McAvoy. All their pupils are similarly engaged on the project and will be presenting their findings to parents in the summer term of 2021.

The building will incorporate the latest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, but Art will straddle these four. Whether underpinning the design itself or simply making the work eye-catching to the end-user, Art will be behind every decision we take in the process.

Needless to say, the children are going to be deeply involved in the creation of this facility, from the bottom up. Ms Porter anticipates the process like this: ‘While the older children will be busy comparing the merits of one laser cutter over another, our youngest children will be researching the comfiest bean bags and the most ergonomically satisfying computer mice!’

This project is pure STEAM and we look forward to sharing the results of our work – the Art bit especially – in a future edition.

www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

March/April 2021 • Families South West 9

EDUCATION

Helping your child become an e ective learner

By Gail Hugman Nowadays, there are many things that can get in the way of a child learning e ectively, including not wanting to practise di icult things; being discouraged by failure; comparing themselves with others; or simply not making much e ort.

This is frustrating, both for the child who is underperforming, and for parents, tired of nagging and at a loss as to how to motivate them.

It’s worth bearing in mind that a child hasn’t learned to see the world the way we do and doesn’t know how it works. Feelings are the only tool they have to navigate and experience the world and often they find these hard to interpret. If they feel confused, contradicted, overwhelmed or under pressure, they are unlikely to be able to explain what’s wrong and so they switch o . We’ve all asked the question: “Why did you do that?” and been met by a shrug. They ‘did that’ (whatever it was), because they were reacting to what they were feeling at the time. Looking at it through a child’s eyes, we might see it as self-preservation in a crazy-ish world!

Many children feel that they have to ‘wait to grow up’ before they can DO anything, and some behave as though education is being ‘done’ to them. Punishment and bribery may change the outward behaviour, but will not fix poor motivation, which is needed for meaningful, happy learning to happen.

To help your child when they have gone o track, step back and look beyond the behaviour. Understand that deep down, your

child wants to succeed, wants you to be proud of them and doesn’t want to let you down, but has got stuck and doesn’t know how to get unstuck.

Explain to your child that their job as a child is to grow - what they know, what they can do, their experience and their abilities and that school is a place that can help them to do this.

Children also benefit from focussing on grasping one skill or piece of learning in any task, otherwise there is potential for them to get confused and end up absorbing very little. It helps to explain to them what skill or piece of learning they are aiming for and to let them know when they have achieved it.

Gail Hugman is the founder of Lessons Alive. Gail has 46 years’ experience teaching and motivating children to be the best they can be in school and in life. This article contains extracts from her book 100 Things to Learn Before You’re 10, available at www.theendlessbookcase.com. For further information, visit www.lessonsalive.com.

Using spelling to practise three essential learning skills Tell your child which skill they are developing each week.

Listening Week 1: Break each word into syllables or phonics, and talk about the sounds in each word. Make sure your child is correctly pronouncing them.

Week 2. Whisper the words, so they need to listen carefully and tell you what you said!

Memory Week 1: Make two sets of the words on small cards and play pairs. Lay the cards face down and win by selecting matching words.

Week 2. Write the letters of each word onto post-its and muddle them up. Let your child rearrange them to make the word!

A simple way to explain learning to your child SO much happens in everyday life! The part of our brain that loves new things really enjoys it, but if it isn’t exciting, it doesn’t remember anything for more than about twenty minutes because there’s just too much going on!

To learn something new, we must take action, and that action is practise!

Organisation Week 1: Teach your child to sort the words in alphabetical order to remember them.

Week 2: Tell them to sort them according to the number of letters in the word.

When you do something over and over again, your brain gets the message that what you’re doing is important and makes a little track about it (called a neural pathway). After a while, when you’ve done it lots of times, your brain knows it’s important and wraps up the little track to make sure you don’t lose it! That’s when you say: “I’ve got it!”

All these activities will not only help your child to remember their spelling words but will consciously boost their learning skills. You can use other subjects to boost skills too.

For example, spend three minutes every day focused on learning one of the times tables. Write it out and say it repeatedly and in a week or two, your brain will wrap it up so you’ll know it forever. Your brain wants to help you!

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Forest School activities promoting confidence and environmental awareness PLEASE RING TAYLOR ON

020 7228 3652

TO SECURE YOUR PLACE Nursery places (2 and 3/4 year olds) still available for September 2021

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NUMBER

2 16

IN LONDON

TH

NATIONALLY

Top tips to choose a school

PREP SCHOOLS

By Bridget Saul, Headmistress of Cameron Vale School

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he process of selecting a school for your child can, at times, appear overwhelming and somewhat daunting, even more so in the midst of a global pandemic. Tempting as it is to be swayed by the opinions of others, above all, children should join or move onto a school which is right for them as an individual.

There is a wealth of choice available and amongst this choice, is the right school for your child.

1. Communication throughout the entire process is paramount. As a first step, it may be helpful to speak with your child’s current headteacher and ask any questions.

2. Use Open Days wisely. If you are able, visit schools during the day time as this will give a clear insight in to how the school operates on a daily basis and will help to strengthen your understanding of its ethos, the type of educational experience it offers and suitability for your child.

inspection reports and pay particular attention to how the school has performed over time.

be supplementary forms and there may be complicated arrangements for submission.

4. Think about your child’s talents and interests and consider whether they will be catered for.

6. Where do pupils go on to from the school?

You want to see at least some children doing well academically and aiming for good courses at top universities as it shows support for the most ambitious.

8. Listen to your child’s feelings and involve them in the final decision-making process, they will potentially spend many years there and deserve a say.

5. Look at the school’s league tables, but do not centre your decision around this. Read

7. When the time comes to fill in application forms, allow yourself plenty of time. There may

3. Choosing a school is like buying a house; you know when you have found the perfect match. Listen to your instincts. If a school does not feel right, move on.

9. Remind yourself that there is more than one school that can be right for your child. www.cameronvaleschool.com

Senior provision at Knightsbridge School

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n September 2020 Knightsbridge School (KS) opened their doors to their first Year 9 class at the new Senior School building in Elvaston Place. As Ms Shona Colaço (KS Head) recounts, even during these extraordinary times ‘the excitement from students and parents has been matched by that of the staff across the school’. This year is the next step in the KS journey toward building an all-through school, providing education for students from 4 to 16 years old. KS is committed to nurturing every student's unique talents by providing an enriching education, tailored to each individual.

Life Perspectives an innovative subject Building on the success of the bi-annual Entrepreneurship Competition, Life Perspectives at Knightsbridge School offers students the chance to explore and utilise the key skills used in business—engaging with industry and broadening their understanding of the global economy. This innovative subject also extends earlier programmes of study, developing students' curiosity through consideration of metaphysics, ethics, politics and social issues. High profile guest speakers from a range of sectors, engage students in discussions on contemporary topics, cultivating intellectual curiosity as students prepare for GCSE qualifications including Business, Sociology and Citizenship.

The energetic and expressive Arts teams continue to inspire and nurture students' talents through Art & Design, Dance, Drama and Music. Whether through the five hours of weekly Games and PE, or the weekly team building and yoga sessions, the physical and sporting provision gives students scope to successfully pursue a range of both individual and team sports. Finally, an increased language offering complements and completes the traditional academic subjects on offer at GCSE.

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As with many city centre schools, outdoor space on site is a luxury However, we are incredibly fortunate to be able to offer daily breaks in Hyde Park, which is located right on our doorstep, as well as sport, at a range of outstanding facilities including Burton Court and Imperial College’s Ethos Centre. We are able to make the most of a whole host of learning opportunities with museums such as The V&A, the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum all just a five minute walk away. www.knightsbridgeschool.com March/April 2021 • Families South West 15

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COLLEGE GUARDIANS

Ever Thought of Hosting an International Student?

YOUR CHILD THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN THE WORLD

We are currently seeking host families to look after children attending boarding school in the UK whose parents are based overseas.

Our hosts look after the children during some half term holidays and occasional weekends. Dates of stays will depend very much on the school that the child attends.

In exchange for your hospitality you will receive a generous compensation package as well as the invaluable experience that hosting an international student can bring to you and your family.

For more informa on please contact Caroline Lloyd, Guardianship Manager

caroline@collegeguardians.co.uk • +44 (0) 1684 581600

www.collegeguardians.co.uk

SCHOOL VISITS 1:1 tours by appointment with the Admissions Registrar

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March/April 2021 • Families South West 17

School Open Days SW1 Knightsbridge School, 4-16y, B&G. Currently interviewing for places in Y7 and Y9. 020 7590 9000. Online tours. www.knightsbridgeschool.com Eaton House Belgravia, 3-11y, B. Admissions: 020 3917 5050. www.eatonhouseschools.com

SW3 Cameron Vale, 2-11y, B&G. Tours by appointment. admissions@cameronvaleschool.com 020 7352 4040 The Hampshire, 2-11y, B&G. Open Day 18/3 at 5pm. Contact admissions@thehampshireschoolchelse a.co.uk or see www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk /open-day

SW4 Eaton House The Manor, 3-13y, B and 3-11y, G. Virtual Open Mornings for Boys 24/2 and 10/3 and Girls 23/2 and 9/3 9.30am -10.30am.

Take a look inside Eaton House The Manor Boys’ School:

https://youtu.be/6wQ4thRJZMc Girls’ School: https://youtu.be/z7siwhPe_SY Nursery: https://youtu.be/R9VyNfDGTc Admissions: 020 3917 5050. www.eatonhouseschools.com

SW6 Parson’s Green Prep, 4-11y, B&G. Tours by appointment.

020 7610 8085 www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk Ecole des Petits, 3-6y, B&G. 020 7371 8350 admin@lecoledespetits.co.uk www.lecoledespetits.co.uk

SW11

SW12 The White House Prep, 2.5-11y B&G and Woodentops Nurseries SW4 and SW12. Babies from 6m. Visits by appointment. www.whitehouseschool.com and www.woodentopsnurseries.com

SW15 Ibstock Place, 4-11 and 11-18y, B&G. 020 8876 9991 Senior Open Evening 5/5 from 5-7pm but check website: www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk

SW18

Shaftesbury Park Primary, B&G, NurY6. Bilingual and International Primary Curriculum. 020 7228 3652 www.shaftesburypark.wandsworth.sch.uk

St Anne’s CE Primary, 4-11y, B&G. Open days continue by appointment.

020 8874 1863 admin@stannes.wandsworth.sch.uk

Dolphin, 4-11y, B&G. Tours by appointment. admissions@dolphinschool.org.uk www.dolphinschool.org.uk

Wandsworth Prep, 4-11y, B&G. Book a one-to-one tour on 020 8870 4133. www.wandsworthprep.com

Ecole de Battersea, 3-11y, B&G. 020 7371 8350 admin@lecoledespetits.co.uk www.lecoledespetits.co.uk

Anglo-Portuguese, 4-11y, B&G. 020 3417 0905 www.angloportugueseschool.org

. . . e t a d p U SW19 Donhead Prep, 4-11y, B. Only a few places available for entry in Sept. headmasterpa@donhead.org.uk or see www.donhead.org.uk The Rowans, 3-7y, B&G. 020 8946 8220. Tours by appointment. registrar@rowans.org.uk Our Lady Queen of Heaven, 4-11y B&G. Tours by appointment.020 8788 7420 www.ourladyqueenofheaven.wandswor th.sch.uk See website for virtual tour.

The Study Wimbledon, 4-11y G. Virtual tours by appointment. 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk

SW20 Hall Wimbledon, 5-18y, B&G. 020 8879 9200. Visit the website to book an informal chat with the head. www.hsw.co.uk

SE26 Sydenham High GDST, 4-18Y, G. Next virtual Open 19/3 10-10.45am. Book online https://www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.n et/admissions/open-events-taster-days/

Hall School Wimbledon is the only non-selective, coeducational, all-through 5-18 school in Wimbledon.

The school is extensively resourced with a variety of facilities both on-site and at their extensive playing fields ‘Oberon’, a 15-minute walk from the main site.

Anything is possible “The core values of Hall School are its 3 Is: Inclusive, Individual and Inspiring. This is our DNA and gives us direction, provides cohesion and a sense of mission. All students are valued, regardless of academic prowess, artistic flair or sporting ability, with opportunities for all to join in and try new things. Our outstanding approach to pastoral care, coupled with a broad curriculum, supports our pupils to develop into well-rounded individuals.”

The school is on an upward trajectory HSW has recently undergone some significant strategic change and continues to build upon this excellent work to make HSW an outstanding school to work and learn in every section of the school. https://hsw.co.uk/

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BILINGUALISM

A bilingual education is a gift for life L’Ecole du Parc tells Families the benefits of learning an additional language

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id you know that most people in the world speak more than one language? This might be because of the environment they grew up in, or because their parents chose to raise them bilingually.

We also work closely with parents to help them promote and develop both languages at home.

Practical methods such as books, songs and games in home language and the language of education will ensure that both languages are seen as positive and of equal value.

Finally, beyond the benefit of speaking and understanding another language, children enjoy discovering new cultures, habits and foods—including the French baguettes! www.ecoleduparc.co.uk

30 years ago, bilingualism was seen as a disadvantage for children and parents were discouraged from speaking their mother tongues. In fact, since then, numerous studies have demonstrated multiple, exciting advantages for children who grow up bilingual: • Bilingual children are more creative and better at planning and solving complex problems than monolinguals.

• Bilingual children are better able to focus their attention on relevant information • They also demonstrate a head start on fundamental social and emotional skills • They find it easier to learn additional languages And that’s not all, benefits continue in older life too: the effects of aging on the brain are reduced among bilingual adults. In one study, the onset of dementia was delayed by 4 years in bilinguals compared to monolinguals with dementia!

So, how early should children start learning a new language?

Simultaneous acquisition, when a child is raised bilingually from birth, or when the second language is introduced before the age of three, is usually seen as most effective. As teachers at l’Ecole du Parc, we firmly believe that full immersion through the “One Person, One Language” principle (OPOL) is the best way to educate the children who attend our two Outstanding bilingual nurseries. We create warm, nurturing, enabling environments that promote communication. Children develop their first friendships in both English and French, as noted by OFSTED in their report: “Children move forward in their language development exceptionally and become highly confident bilingual communicators.” familiesonline.co.uk

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BILINGUALISM

Brighter minds for bilingual children in a safer environment F

ounded in 1977 L’Ecole des Petits in Fulham and L’Ecole de Battersea in Wandsworth combine the best elements of both the English and French systems.

Their highly qualified teachers provide a truly bilingual and rich cultural education from age three through to age eleven.

Immersed in both languages and cultures on a daily basis, their pupils develop an agility of mind, enquiring minds, strong self-confidence and a profound sense of understanding and tolerance of others.

pupils. “Children’s safety and well-being, emotionally, mentally and physically are of paramount importance to us, and to them.

This has been especially important during the unprecedented circumstances of covid19 and lockdowns. We have A bilingual maintained a combination of on-line education from an and in situ education and support throughout the last 12 months for early age provides both children and parents. enormous benefits

“Our school community is very closely knit together, and offers strong support to our diverse range of over 32 nationalities.

Our aim is for pupils to reach to the development A priority for us has been to provide oral, written and writing fluency of children. in both English and French by the the healthiest and safest time they leave the school at age 11, environment possible in the school. To when they are in a position to be able to this effect we installed high performance choose to apply to top English schools or take HyperHEPA air purification equipment (hospital the International Lycée route (A levels or Bac standard) in all classrooms, gyms and canteens International).” Mastering both languages and in 2019. These remove PM2.5 man-made cultures is achieved not only through academic pollution particles from the air, and also viruses teaching but also a combination of arts, music, (Covid-19) and bacteria from the air, reducing sports and after school clubs which are all an risk of infection.” integral part of the curriculum.

L’Ecole des Petits – L’Ecole de Battersea Underpinning this happy community is the International Primary and Nursery schools attention given to pastoral support for the www.lecoledespetits.co.uk 020 7371 8350

The Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle— international more than bilingual A

t this centenary school, well established in the heart of South Kensington with sister primary schools in Clapham, Ealing and Fulham, the emphasis is squarely put on multilingualism and multiculturalism.

and A-Levels in the British Section, pupils are given the opportunity to reinforce their bilingual skills and to learn at least one additional language (German, Russian, Italian, Spanish or Arabic) including Latin or Ancient Greek.

Catering for 3,500 pupils from age 3 to 18, the LFCG welcomes over 40 nationalities and teaches French and English, as well as seven other languages including Classics.

No Frenglish!

Beyond classroom learning where pupils are also taught about the history, culture and literature of other countries, they take part in international projects with other schools and experience class exchanges. Outside classrooms, pupils do not speak Frenglish, they simply use the words that best express their thoughts, fluidly moving between multiple languages, often within the same sentence.

From nursery classes, various paths for language learning are on offer.

Two of the primary schools are in a partnership with local English schools. The main focus for early years is the acquisition and mastery of the spoken language in both tongues, achieved mostly through play and socialisation.

One person = one language approach Following the Ronjat-Grammont educational approach, one person = one language, teachers consistently speak their mother tongue. Pupils can either receive a mainly French education with intensive English, or be taught in both languages with learning time 20 Families South West • March/April 2021

equally split in the weekly timetable.

Irrespective of the chosen language learning path (French programme with intensive English or 50/50 curriculum), all pupils attain writing proficiency in both English and French at the end of the primary phase.

At secondary level, the offer becomes even wider. Whether preparing for the French Baccalaureate in the Plurilingual Section, or OIB (Option Internationale du Baccalauréat) in the International Section, or even taking GCSEs

The diversity of language teaching is combined with robust academics in all learning areas, as demonstrated by outstanding exam results.

This allows pupils to pursue further education anywhere in the world, particularly on the most competitive courses in the UK, USA, Canada and France. www.lyceefrancais.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

BILINGUALISM

A NEW Anglo-Portuguese bilingual primary

What is Kidslingo?

A leading, multi award-winning language franchise that teaches French & Spanish, their aim is simple: to inspire young children from birth to age 11 years to love languages.

“Our unique teaching methodology is focused on fun, play and interactivity via songs, games, actions, story-telling and let’s pretend. During these unprecedented times, we are dedicated to continuing to offer our fun, engaging and interactive classes online via both live video and pre-recorded videos.”

IDEAL FOR: parents looking for private or group tuition, for nurseries looking for engaging language lessons and for schools looking for high quality, engaging MFL curriculum classes.

Get in touch to discuss your requirements zoeolivier@kidslingo.co.uk or 07961 107707.

This new primary school, which opened in September 2020, is England’s first to provide a bilingual curriculum in English and in Portuguese. Open for all children from the local and wider community, it offers an innovative curriculum underpinned by the values of the UK national curriculum and global pedagogical approaches. It boasts a strong focus on developing creativity and children´s individual interests with exceptional language provision as well as club provision, offering a range of enrichment opportunities.

Facilities include two outdoor areas, brand new classrooms and equipment for all year

A school where creativity and individual talents are nourished

groups, a large gymnasium and a performance room, state of the art play decks and a fully equipped music room sponsored by the Gulbenkian Institute, Lisbon.

They welcome children of all language abilities, whether they have never been exposed to Portuguese language before or they have spoken Portuguese at home since infancy. https://angloportugueseschool.org Wandsworth High Street (South Thames College site) SW18 2PP | 020 3417 0905

French camp and online learning: Et Patati et Patata The go-to French learning company, with a team of super enthusiastic French teachers! Currently teaching online, one hour of French lessons and one hour of workshop (drama-singing-art-music all in French) in small groups of 6.

They also have a Saturday school and an immersion holiday program of 30 hours offering a wide range of fun and creative activities all in French tailored on the French program of the French schools. They encourage children to talk, write, relate and children progress in French with fun. Led by experienced, native French speaking

primary teachers (école française) From Foundation (Grades 1-3) to teen (12-16). www.etpatatipatata.com 07966 893674 caroline@etpatatipatata.com

Should your child join a bilingual primary?

W

e asked Mrs Bunmi Richards, Headteacher of Shaftesbury Park Primary School, about their bilingual provision and enterprise stream Shaftesbury Park Primary School is an awardwinning, innovative, community primary school in the heart of Battersea. As the first school in the UK to be awarded the prestigious LabelFrancEducation, Shaftesbury Park has developed and embedded an exciting bilingual curriculum where the children are taught their class topics in French for up to 50% of the week. With our strong partnership with the French Institute and other bilingual schools, we successfully integrate a Francophone culture within our classes, enabling our pupils to graduate primary school with a high proficiency in French. The 100% pass rate for pupils entered for the DELF A2 exam 2019 (this includes non-native speakers) is impressive and a testament to the quality of teaching!

Our Gold Award UNICEF Rights Respecting School status has enabled us to develop a mutually respectful and positive learning environment where our pupils are encouraged

22 Families South West • March/April 2021

to play a valuable role in our school, the local community and the wider world. From this foundation our children have the choice of being taught in either a Bilingual or Enterprise stream.

Enterprise stream Shaftesbury Park’s links to local and international communities and businesses across London and beyond, makes learning relevant and meaningful.

Throughout their primary years, all our children in the Enterprise classes will have the opportunity to plan and run their own small business, campaign for positive change within the school and community and to fundraise for good causes. In so doing they will embrace eight lifelong skills: Leadership, Problem Solving, Teamwork, Aiming High, Using your Imagination, Sharing Ideas, Listening Carefully and Staying Positive. By the end of Year 6 our children are financially aware and understand how to use their voice to make a difference!

Both streams go far beyond the National

Curriculum. The teaching in both is dynamic, extremely relevant and ambitious, our outstanding academic results are simply a byproduct of the work we do! shaftesburypark.wandsworth.sch.uk

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Anglo Portugese School

BILINGUALISM DIRECTORY

NEW! ANGLO PORTUGUESE SCHOOL OF LONDON SW18. A free 4-11yrs primary.

England's first school providing a bilingual curriculum in English and in Portuguese. Opened Sept 2020. www.angloportugueseschool.org THE GERMAN SCHOOL Richmond. Kindergarten, pre-school, elementary school, middle school and upper school. Also a Saturday school. www.dslondon.org.uk LYCEE FRANCAIS SW7. The original French Lycée and the largest French school in the UK The primary school offers French and bilingual classes. In the secondary school, children can choose between the French and the British section to study for GCSEs and A-Levels. www.lyceefrancais.org.uk L’ECOLE INTERNATIONALE FRANCOANGLAISE (EIFA) W1. An English-French international co-educational nursery, junior and senior independent day school.

London www.eifaschool.com ECOLE JEANNINE MANUEL WC1. A co-educational bilingual international French school for 3-18 year olds in the heart of London.

Sister school of its Paris namesake. www.ecolejeanninemanuel.org.uk ECOLE D’ANDRÉ MALRAUX Ealing. The fourth Lycée primary with 300 pupils in 11 French classes. www.lyceefrancais.org.uk RUSSIAN SCHOOL SW7. B&G www.russianschool.org.uk

L’ECOLE DES PETITS & L’ECOLE DE BATTERSEA SW6 and SW11. B&G, Fulham (36yrs) & Battersea (3-11yrs). www.lecoledespetits.co.uk L’ECOLE BILINGUE W2, B&G 3-11y Bilingual FrenchEnglish school. www.lecolebilingue.com familiesonline.co.uk

BELLEVILLE WIX SW11. Two languages, three streams: English, bilingual and French. An international, language and culture rich on-site cooperation between Wix Primary School and the Lycée Charles de Gaulle. www.bellevillewix.org.uk SHAFTESBURY PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL SW11. B&G International Primary Curriculum and French bilingual section. www.shaftesburypark.wandsworth.sch.uk

The Fulham Bilingual

FULHAM BILINGUAL SCHOOL PRIMARY SW6. A unique partnership between Holy Cross Catholic Primary, a state English school and L'Ecole Marie d'Orliac, a French private school. www.fulhambilingual.org.uk WHITGIFT SCHOOL Croydon. Boys Independent day and boarding school for 10-18yrs, strong French section. www.whitgift.co.uk RICHMOND DUTCH SCHOOL SW14. Saturday school www.richmonddutchschool.org.uk WENLIN CHINESE SCHOOL SW11. Saturday Classes and activities. www.wenlinchineseschool.org.uk L’ECOLE DU PARC SW11. B&G, 2-5yrs. A nursery school and a bilingual school. British and French education in a warm and nurturing environment 020 7993 6460 www.ecoleduparc.co.uk ANGLO-SPANISH NURSERY SCHOOL SW4. B&G, 2-5yrs.

PEQUES NURSERIES SW6. Bilingual French & Spanish.www.peques.co.uk CLUB PETIT PIERROT Several areas. Popular after school fun French lessons and tuition, online and in person. Est. 25years www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk ET PATATI PATATA SW6. Popular French language classes, école du samedi, holiday activities 3-14yrs. Follows the French curriculum from maternelle to college. www.etpatatipatata.com BABYCCINO SW19. Italian language and activities.

Facebook @BabyccinoClubItaliano AD MELIORA SW19. Italian, Russian, English, Spanish, French and German while you enjoy your hobbies.

Facebook @AdMelioraAcademy LES PETITS CHOUX SW18. A French School for bilingual children, FLAM. www.lespetitschoux.org.uk LE FRENCH PROGRAMME LTD SW6. French language club within Parsons Green school, saturday classes. www.lefrenchprogramme.com BATTERSEA SPANISH SW11. cultural centre classes like flamenco, events, Saturday creative classes and languages classes for children. www.batterseaspanish.com ARC EN CIEL SW19. French holiday club Facebook @ArcEncielClubs KIDSLINGO Fun French and Spanish language classes for young children using song, dance, games and drama to inspire their young learners. 0-11yrs. www.kidslingo.co.uk SPANISH HOUSE SW4. Language classes.www.spanishhouselondon.com

BOULE DE NEIGE SW15. French Saturday school School for French- speaking children, will shortly offer Russian, Spanish, Polish and Arabic classes. Multilingualism and speech therapy workshops.

5-11yrs. https://babylingualism.com LA PETITE ECOLE WIMBLEDON SW19. French Saturday school for all.

Wide range of classes for non native children, francophone/bilingual children, a playgroup for 1-3yrs coming soon. Adult classes and drama classes in French for 5-10yrs Facebook @petiteecolewimbledon IL CLUB ITALIANO SW13. Learn Italian with Club italiano for children and for adults.

020 8748 6418 NANOS SPANISH Online. Learn a language through games, action songs and educational activities. Toddlers to preschool children. www.nanospanishclub.com BILINGUAL BEATS Spanish classes with a musical twist.

From babies to six years old, each one learning at their own pace.

Online or face-to-face, live music. www.bilingualbeatsonline.com AVERY HILL EDUCATION Online French, Spanish, Italian & German Classes. Primary & Secondary. Preparation for examinations - DELF Prim, DELF Junior, GCSE, A-level & SAT. www.averyhilleducation.com LEARN FRENCH STORYBOOKS Bilingual storybook for children aged 6yrs+. www.LearnFrenchforkids.co.uk ALPINE FRENCH SCHOOL Morzine, France. Learn French in the beautiful French Alps. A wide range of French language courses, camps and activities to suit all abilities and ages, plus online French courses.

Age 5-adults. www.alpinefrenchschool.com

Welcome to

www.anglospanishnurseryschool.co.uk

YUME NURSERY AND PRE-SCHOOL SW18. A fully immersive English/Spanish NEW! bilingual nursery plus, complimentary languages such as French, Mandarin and Korean are also taught as a Language Programmes both for parents & children. Opened Feb 2021. www.yumeschool.com ITALIAN DAY NURSERY SW9. B&G, 0-4yrs Facebook @ The Italian Day Nursery LITTLE LINGUISTS NURSERIES SW16. B&G, Bilingual French & English. www.littlelinguistsnursery.co.uk FamiliesSWLon

Nursery School WE ARE THE ONLY FRENCH BILINGUAL NURSERY IN THE AREA WE OFFER UNIQUELY FLEXIBLE HOURS LIMITED FUNDED PLACES FOR ELIGIBLE 2-5 YEAR OLDS OFSTED REGISTERED

March/April 2021 • Families South West 23

“Bilingual primary in the heart of Wandsworth where creativity and individual talents are nourished” • New primary school for all children from the local and wider community • Innovative curriculum underpinned by the values of the UK national curriculum and global pedagogical approaches • Strong focus on developing creativity and children’s individual interests • Exceptional language provision • Club provision offering a range of enrichment opportunities

Facilities: Two outdoor areas and a covered area for the Early Years Brand new classrooms and equipment for all year groups Large gymnasium and a performance room State of the art play decks for every key stage Fully equipped music room sponsored by the Gulbenkian Institute, Lisbon

info@angloportugueseschool.org | https://angloportugueseschool.org Wandsworth High Street (South Thames College site), SW18 2PP | 020 3417 0905

L’Ecole du Parc bilingual schools have been welcoming children from 2 to 5 years old for 20 years in a warm and nurturing environment that combines the best of the French and British systems.

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Go to https://bit.ly/subscribetoFSW Afterschool care till 6pm www.ecoleduparc.co.uk Clapham

24 Families South West • March/April 2021

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Boosting your child’s mood

By Caroline Roope Our children’s mental health has never been more important.

With everything Covid 19 has flung at us - lockdown, school closures, separation from friends and family - coupled with the long, dark days of winter, it’s hardly surprising we’re all feeling somewhat deflated. Children in particular can be prone to mood swings because they have not yet developed the emotional language to express their feelings.

If your child needs a pick-me-up, try one of these activities to help banish the blues. as far as possible, but don’t overstretch. Bring your elbows and forearms to the ground beneath your shoulders whilst keeping your palms flat.

Get creative in the kitchen Cooking your child’s favourite dish together is a sociable experience with a (hopefully) enjoyable outcome. If it doesn’t turn out as expected (try not to pull a face!) encourage them to consider what they might do di erently. This helps encourage problem-solving skills. If your child is older, let them go it alone in the kitchen - it’ll be a great opportunity to build up their selfesteem.

Yoga Yoga is a brilliant mood booster and encourages co-ordination and strength. Try these animal poses with your child: Lion – kneel on a mat and sit back on your heels. Press your palms into your knees, splaying out your fingers like claws.

Breathe in through your nose whilst opening your mouth, stretching your tongue down to your chin. Breathe out with a roar!

Frog – go onto your hands and knees. Walk your knees out wide

Find your inner child Children are always delighted when their parents stop being their usual sensible selves and act a bit silly. Next time your child is having a pillow fight, playing chase or splashing in a puddle, why not join in too? Getting inside your child’s games creates shared experiences. It’s important for our children to see us laughing and good for our mental health if we can take a break from “adulting” and spend some time “childing” instead!

Parenting is one of the most rewarding jobs in the world, but also one of the toughest. Bringing up happy children is no mean feat, but at the core of inner happiness is a sense of connection, something that is innate in all parent and child relationships. So, you’re already most of the way there!

Find more simple ways to boost your child’s mood in Help Your Child Feel Happier by Caroline Roope, published by VIE (£9.99)

What being unhappy looks like Often a child’s behaviour is a useful indicator of how they are feeling, particularly with younger children who may not have the vocabulary to put their emotions into words.

Signs to look out for include: •

Becoming withdrawn, or, if a usually quiet child, becoming aggressive;

•

Excessive mood swings;

•

Complaining about physical problems such as stomach or headaches (rule out illness first);

•

Changes in appetite;

•

Sleep disturbances;

•

Unwillingness to engage in their normal routine such as not wanting to go to school or after school clubs.

Trust your instincts: you know your child best. If you feel something isn’t right, it’s time to work out why.

Try tracking your child’s mood in a diary to see if there are any patterns – for instance, are they always upset after a particular occurrence or situation?

It’s useful to identify triggers but be mindful of belittling their emotions – a younger child’s perspective is very di erent to our own and they may feel genuinely unhappy about something we consider trivial.

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FamiliesSWLon

Encouraging an optimistic outlook An important part of growing up is acknowledging that life doesn’t always go to plan. For some children, disappointment can lead to feelings of self-doubt and sadness. By encouraging a positive mindset, we can help our children to re-shape how they feel about themselves, giving them the resilience to weather life’s storms and the confidence to feel happy.

Create a positivity poster A strong visual message can help remind the whole family to think positively. Get together and choose a quote from a book or use the internet to research a saying that can become a family mantra, such as Roald Dahl’s famous quote: “If you have good thoughts, they will shine out of your face like sunbeams.”

Write it in the centre of the poster and decorate the space around it with images of things that make you all feel happy.

Younger children can draw their happy pictures or colour the poster in. Hang it somewhere where everyone can see it and get those positive vibes flowing!

March/April 2021 • Families South West 25

EASTER HOLIDAYS

Your child shall go to a camp!

Parents are doing a great job in trying to normalise their children’s lives, with home schooling, long walks and lots of play. But, as Tobias from The Little Gym Wandsworth points out, unfortunately one element in a child’s development which is difficult to emulate while in lockdown, is their need for interaction with others, both adult and other children.

This is also the case for new-borns who would normally be taken to lots of social gatherings and meet other adults and babies. Babies need social interaction to aid their development, even if it is just to understand facial expressions while lying in their prams.

Socialisation is a fundamental element of The Little Gym’s philosophy, where their classes start for children as young as 4 months old (with Bugs).

They should be able to re-open on 12th April and will be thrilled to help local families in what has been a very hard time for us all.

To avoid the rush, book your introductory visit now!

020 8874 6567 www.wandsworthfulham. thelittlegym.co.uk Youngstars multi sport & activity camps Balham, Clapham, Clapham Junction, Wimbledon, Putney 07749 343116 or 0845 222 1313 campbookings@young-stars.co.uk www.young-stars.co.uk 6-9 and 12-16 April Easter holiday camps. Guaranteed fun through games, sports and arts & crafts.

The camps are all inclusive and non competitive, designed to improve co-ordination, awareness, motor skills. Ages 3-10yrs.

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes Many venues in SW 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk Visit www.perform.org.uk/beauty to book.

7-9 April (when used as childcare) and 12-14 April. Venture into the

spooky wood to explore the enchanting tale of Beauty & the Beast. With songs, dancing, costumes and music, this magical performance will delight family and friends. A perfect holiday treat!

Three-day courses from 10am to 3pm each day for 4-10 years.

Introductory £40 discount if you book by 30/4/21 quoting LSW300421 Stagecoach Wimbledon 07710 056094 wimbledon@stagecoach.co.uk Book online www.stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon 6-9 April Easter break musical theatre workshop. Four days to have fun and be creative, working on different musicals throughout the week. Places are limited.

Develop confidence and skills in acting, dancing and singing, working in small groups to suit age and ability, led by top industry professionals, no experience necessary, open to everyone aged 6-16 years.

Stagecoach Battersea In person. Book now via the website

www.stagecoach.co.uk/Battersea 13-15 April Fun-filled Performing Arts camp for children and teens aged 4-6 and 7-16 years, a musical theatre-tastic 3 days/mornings event.

Let’s Act drama Earlsfield, Wimbledon and Clapham www.letsactdramaclasses.co.uk 12-16 April. Easter camps.

Confidence building fun with a filmed showcase to share with family.

Little Voices Putney 020 8088 0113 swl@littlevoices.org.uk www.littlevoices.org.uk 12-15 April Spectacular Easter holiday camps packed with lots of laughs, fun, drama, singing and performing allowing everyone to build in confidence whilst fully adhering to government guidelines.

Group size capped at 15, lots of time outdoors. Children will be working towards a professionally filmed performance. 9am-3.30pm each day. Age 5-11 yrs.

Upbeat Music Courses Thomas’s Academy, Parsons Green upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk 6–8 April 10am–12 Online 12–16 April 10am– 4pm Parsons Green Sing, dance, play in a band, record, write songs and enjoy spending time with the Upbeat team in a fun and caring environment. Exciting Upbeat performance at the end!

Fully qualified teachers and professional musicians. 4–14yrs.

(Covid permitting)

Little House of Science Covid permitting, camps will be held at Holiday Inn Kensington Forum. Daily live zoom classes www.littlehouseofscience.com 29 March-1 April, 6-9 April, 12-16 April Easter camps. Stimulating and engaging classes for inspiring and exploring science. Easter classes include: The Invention of Telephone , the Periodic Table in our Bodies, Let’s Study Pressure, The Science of Smell, Neurosurgeons: the Brain and the Central Nervous System, Jane Goodall and the Apes, The Invention of Wheel and Axels and more. 10am-4.30 Chelsea Young Writers SW London www.chelseayoungwriters.co.uk 29 March-1 April, 6-9 April, 12-16 April Holiday courses and creative writing workshops designed and delivered by acclaimed children’s authors and creative writing tutors.

An educational, fun holiday camp or holiday activity for your children designed to stimulate children's creative thinking and improve their creative writing skills in a fun and entertaining way. See website for the full programme. Ages 6-7yrs and 8-12yrs.

Yellowbird Education In-person Parsons Green Prep School, SW6 4LJ 020 7731 0695 hello@yellowbirdeducation.co.uk yellowbirdeducation.com 29 March – 1 April creative writing, Y1-Y5, 7+, 8+, 10+, 11+ English Exam Prep, Y1, Y2, Y4, Y5. 11+ Reasoning, Y5 continued on p.28

Stagecoach

26 Families South West • March/April 2021

Perform

familiesonline.co.uk

Helping children believe they can do anything Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

BATTERSEA 07956 288928 battersea@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/battersea

NEW MALDEN 0208 540 7791 newmalden@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/newmalden

FULHAM 07498 213142 fulham@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/fulham

PUTNEY 020 8099 9861 putney@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/putney WIMBLEDON 020 8946 3400 wimbledon@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

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March/April 2021 • Families South West 27

EASTER HOLIDAYS 6-9 April creative writing, Y1-Y5.

7+, 8+, 10+, 11+ English exam prep, Y1, Y2, Y4, Y5 11+ Reasoning, Y5. Handwriting, ages 8yrs and up. Art appreciation, ages 7yrs and up 12-15 April Creative writing, Y1-Y5.

7+, 8+, 10+, 11+ English exam Prep, Y1, Y2, Y4, Y5. Handwriting, ages 8yrs and up. Art appreciation, ages 7yrs and up Prices vary, ages: year 1-year 6 students.

Et Patati Patata online www.etpatatipatata.com 07966 893674 caroline@etpatatipatata.com 1-16 April Up to 3 hours of French everyday on their e-learning platform in small groups of 6.

French lessons face to face instant sharing in small groups of 6, plus all in French dance, singing, music, creative arts, theatre, debate.

Polka Theatre Online www.polkatheatre.com Step into Spring this Easter holiday with Polka Theatre’s range of online activities. Polka will be presenting a digital double-bill of short films from Second Hand Dance—Sunny Days and Insect Hands—which will inspire you to look a little more closely at the world and the mini beasts around you. To accompany the films they’ll be running some of their very popular Zoom workshops inspired by sunny days, buzzing critters and wriggling bodies— helping you to Step into Spring!

Films: Free to newsletter subscribers. Workshops via Zoom: £6 including activity pack.

Age range: 3-7yrs.

The Strings Club In person and online 0121 296 9204 www.thestringsclub.org The Strings club offer 2 things: Face to face holiday camp and Online holiday camp Face to Face holiday camp in Tooting Offering the best in childcare and music: fun-filled “Learn together, Play together” instrumental sessions that include free hire of an instrument (guitar and ukulele).

Online Holiday Camp.

Wc 5th April (excluding Mon) + wc 12th April.

Fun-filled sessions taking place every day 10-11:30am, two different sessions: • 30 mins instrumental lesson (violin, guitar, ukulele) OR 30 mins music club (no instrument needed) • 45 mins carefully-created workshops that would usually be run at the Holiday Camps. £15 per 1.5 hours or £70 for 5 days.

Naomi Martin Touch Typing Sinclair House School, 59 Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JJ naomi@nmtouchtyping.co.uk www.nmtouchtyping.co.uk 29 March-16 April Touch typing courses for children aged 7- 18yrs.

9.30-11am and 11.30am-1pm.

Try Time rugby Battersea, Clapham, Fulham, Wandsworth, Wimbledon and classes now in Streatham and Tooting. www.trytimekidsrugby. com/come-along Your child needs to go outside, be active and having lots of fun? Try Time Kids’ Rugby is back from 3rd April offering classes on Saturdays and Sundays running right through the Easter holidays up until 24th July. For 2-7 year old girls and boys. Book a free trial!

The Little Gym classes plan to re-open on 12th April

BoomBoom Netball Wimbledon Park 07974 161226. sarah@boomboomfitness.co.uk www.boomboomfitness.co.uk 29, 30 March, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13 & 14 April.

Learn new and exciting skills in this fun and friendly netball camp. Your child will learn the basics of netball and also play lots of fun netball skill related games to build confidence.

For girls in Years 2-4. 9am-3pm.

Little Kickers Various venues in SW London www.littlekickers.co.uk 29 March-16 April Football coaching and football games for kids from 18 months to 7 years. Children learn the foundations for football and team sports.

SportyMinis Online. marnie@sportyminis.com https://sportyminis.com A Physical Education Programme on demand gives you curriculum linked activities sessions to enjoy at home. 15/20 minute sessions can be done in any space with limited equipment and are guaranteed fun,

engaging and educational. The sessions include multi skills, fitness, rugby, football, dance and gymnastics. Two programmes: Early years = 18mths-5yrs and Primary = 5yrs-7yrs.

G-tennis Larkhall Park tennis courts www.g-tennis.com 29 March-16 April.

Holiday camps. Book early to avoid disappointment, tennis club for children and adults.

All Star Tennis Leaders Gardens (SW15 1LS), King Georges Park (SW18 2GJ), Wandsworth Common (SW18 3RT) and Tooting Common (SW17 8JU) info@allstartennis.co.uk 020 8871 4706. www.allstartennis.co.uk 29 March-16 April. A fun-active learning environment, where children enjoy developing their tennis skills and learn to play.

Children progress and develop their game with appropriate court sizes, rackets and softer balls. Our courses are for all abilities and are based on the internationally recognised LTA Mini Tennis Scheme.

Swimming Swimming should re-open from 12th April.

Avoid the rush and book your classes now!

Swimway Balham, Clapham, East Sheen, Kensington, Kew Gardens, Putney, Wandsworth and Wimbledon Homeguard@swimway.co.uk 020 8871 3972 www.swimway.co.uk Very popular intensive swimming courses, book early.

NEW! Brand new purpose built 20m training pool in East Sheen.

Also parents & baby lessons and group adult lessons.

South West Swimming School Emanuel School, Battersea Rise.

To book or reserve a place contact 020 8767 2723 operations @swswimschool.co.uk www.swswimschool.co.uk Intensive courses 30min classes from 9am-12pm.

Water Babies Tooting, Putney, Wandsworth, Southfields, Morden, Balham, Battersea, Fulham. www.waterbabies.co.uk From getting your little one used to the water to having them swim on your own, Water Babies has you covered through those early years.

The Sarah Harris School of Swimming Linden Lodge School, SW19 theswimschool.co.uk

28 Families South West • March/April 2021

familiesonline.co.uk

Childcare and creative activities

When parents are expected to homeschool, work and carry their families through a pandemic, undoubtedly, emotions run high. Léa Henry and Corinna Bordoli are on a mission to reduce that burden through guilt-free and flexible childcare arrangements while supporting the creative sector which is amongst the most affected in the current crisis.

As many artistic projects have been halted during this time, CocoRio are doing their part to provide job opportunities in the sector. They vet, train and match amazing creatives with families to provide a smarter childcare solution. Their “creative sitters”, as CocoRio calls them, perform childcare duties and share their love of creativity with the children they care for.

Think your favourite creative class, tailored to your child and in your living room (or online), it’s your choice. They offer a smart solution for families and meaningful work for freelancers in the creative industries.

Register your interest at www.cocorio.co.uk/register

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FamiliesSWLon

March/April 2021 • Families South West 29

Jina and the STEM sisters, a new musical show!

Streaming from 15 March–11 April Aimed for primary school children and their families, STEM Sisters focuses on historical female scientists and mathematicians whose work was so often unrecognised, but who contributed in so many ways to major developments in our lives today.

Join budding scientist Jina as she seeks her way out of the forest helped by some of history’s amazing female scientists and mathematicians. Digitalcoder rapper Ada Lovelace, glamorous inventor Hedy Lamarr, and ‘radiating’ Marie Curie are amongst those empowering Jina with scientific gifts to help her get home and become the best scientist she can be!

Building future readiness can learn skills from coding, working with AI to games design and digital music production.

There is a lot of debate about the future of work and what skills our children need to develop today to meet tomorrow’s challenges.

Never has science been more relevant, but women continue to be underrepresented. Using puppetry, music and theatre this production for children aged 8+ shares inspiring true stories and engages us all.

From 8+. All tickets £10. www.hmdt.org.uk/hmdtmusic/stemsis ters/the-show

WIN a Timber Tots Magic Tree (RRP £39.99) and enter an enchanting woodland adventure with your pre-schooler's imagination.

Find out more about the offering at www.Fire-Tech.com

The World Economic Forum identified several areas of development including critical thinking, problem-solving, design thinking as well as the effective use of technology. They believe these are key for the future jobs market.

Fire Tech's courses for 8-17 year olds build future-readiness, addressing these skills and empowering kids to explore the universe of tech at their fingertips. Through exciting and engaging project-based work kids

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Little ones and parents alike will love working lift, a swing, garage and exploring the nostalgic Timber Tots Magic secret hideaway you are all set to Tree (based on the original from 1975). Press enjoy the next Timber Tots adventure. on the roof and 'Pop!', the tree lifts up to Suitable for 18months+ reveal a charming little house—ideal living for Explore more of the range here: woodland creatures. With two characters, a www.timbertotstoys.co.uk/ To enter simply email the word ‘Timber Tots’ to editor@familiessw.co.uk

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Award-winning, original, multi-sensory musical classes. Bubbles, costumes, massage, sensory textures and lights, puppets and more.

Also deliver fabulous parties.

Classes designed for each stage of your baby’s development.

Baby bells: Newborn- sitting Beeps: Sitting- Standing Happy house: Toddler & siblings * Classes in Clapham, Battersea, Balham, Putney, Kew, Wandsworth, Fulham, Chelsea, Barnes, Sheen, Earlsfield, Southfields and Victoria.

Kimmy@hartbeeps.com * Classes in Streatham, Wimbledon, Colliers Wood and Tooting Niamh@hartbeeps.com www.hartbeeps.com

Nuturing talent and inspiring passion for writing the fun way (8-11 years)

WRITE! A term-time Storytelling Club New! Young Debaters Club email: clare@creativehare.co.uk www.creativehare.co.uk 30 Families South West • March/April 2021

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EASTER ACTIVITIES

Make an Easter chick With Easter just around the corner, it’s time for some crafty creating with your children to celebrate. Need inspiration to make something special and don’t know where to start? This simple craft takes just minutes to set up and creates a colourful Easter chick.

Doing craft activities together allows your little one to develop new skills as they practise using scissors, hone in on developing fine motor skills and learn about the world around them.

While making your chick, spend time talking about where chickens live and what sounds they make. Then help your child display your finished creation in a prominent place!

You will need: Scissors

Glue

Yellow tissue squares

Feathers

Paper plate

Eyes, beak, legs and feet pictured below. Cut these out with a pair of scissors.

Step-by-step guide:

Step 1 Cover the paper plate in glue Step 2 Stick the tissue squares onto the plate

Step 3 Fold the legs along the dotted lines to make them bendy Step 4 Attach the feet to the legs and then stick on the feet

Step 5 Fold the beak in half and stick to the plate and then add the eyes

Step 6 Finally stick the feathers onto the plate to make the wings Step 7 Leave to dry before displaying.

Karen Allen is co-owner of Kidzplay Playbox which produces creative playboxes guaranteed to be fun and contain high quality, engaging activities. Visit www.kidzplay.co.uk for playboxes delivered to your door. familiesonline.co.uk

FamiliesSWLondon

March/April 2021 • Families South West 31

EARLY YEARS

The lowdown on potty training

By Andrew Campbell If you think your child is ready to begin potty training, the next step to consider is what style of potty training is the best fit for your family. There is no one right method and each comes with advantages and disadvantages.

There are many types of methods, varying from the superintensive to almost hands-o . Here we provide a brief overview of some of the more common methods.

Fast track – 3 days This ‘fast track’ method may be attractive to parents who want to get their child toilet-trained quickly. It requires focussing 100% on potty training for a full three days at home. Your child goes naked and is taken to the potty regularly - or in a hurry if they start going - until they begin to go on their own. Although research supports a good success rate for this method, especially with children over 24 months, accidents will almost certainly continue for some time after.

Infant training – start early This method, also called Elimination Communication, introduces the potty to your baby at a very early age – usually between birth and 4 months. Instead of using nappies, babies are placed on a potty after a meal or when they show signs of wanting to go.

This works through two way communication between the parent and the baby. Parents follow the baby’s cues and babies learn to interpret the signals provided by their parents to empty their bowels or bladder.

Get the job done – 1 week Made popular in a book by Gina Ford, this method is more flexible but is still quite regimented and relys on rewards to make it work. The first stage consists of getting your child to practise sitting on the potty for 5-10 minutes at regular intervals a few days before the potty training week begins. During the week of potty training, toddlers switch to pants and visit the potty starting at short intervals of every 15 minutes with intervals between visits gradually increasing. This can be labourintensive!

Child-oriented method– gentle but slow The child-oriented method seeks to create a positive and stressfree potty-training experience for the parent and child. It is regarded as gentle because it respects the child’s readiness for each new step, and because the child sets the pace; parents do not force new steps if the child pushes back. This method may work well if you stay home with your child, you have a laid-back personality, or your child is headstrong.

Is my child ready?

What age is best?

There are a number of signs that your child is ready to start potty training:

Children are able to control their bladder and bowels when they’re physically ready and when they want to be dry and clean. Every child is di erent, so it’s best not to compare your child with others.

• • •

• •

they know when they’ve got a wet or dirty nappy; they get to know when they’re peeing and may tell you they’re doing it; the gap between wetting is at least an hour (if it’s less, potty training may fail, and at the very least will be extremely hard work for you); they show they need to pee by fidgeting or going somewhere quiet or hidden; they know when they need to pee and may say so in advance.

Potty training is usually fastest if your child is at the last stage before you start the training. If you start earlier, be prepared for a lot of accidents as your child learns. Your child also needs to be able to sit on the potty, get up from it when they’re done and follow your instructions.

More info: www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby 32 Families South West • March/April 2021

Bear in mind that most children can control their bowels before their bladder.

By age 1, most babies have stopped doing poos at night; By age 2, some children will be dry during the day, but this is still quite early; By age 3, 9 out of 10 children are dry most days – even then, all children have the odd accident, especially when they’re excited, upset or absorbed in something else; By age 4, most children are reliably dry during the day.

It usually takes a little longer for children to learn to stay dry throughout the night. Although most children learn this between the ages of 3 and 5, one in five children aged 5 sometimes wet the bed.

More info: www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby

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Look and feel amazing in 2021!

For a special 10% OFF my New You Package (wardrobe detox, style & colour analysis, personal shopping), quote Families South West

Start the New Year with a confident and stylish new you!

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] Personal/business admin/VA ] Organising/decluttering home/office ] Comfort food cooking & baking ] Running errands ] Personal shopping ] Travel arrangements ] Nursery/school runs Have you ever felt overwhelmed by trying to do it all and would love to free up some time in order to share more memorable and quality time with your friends, family or even yourself?

How we dress affects how we feel and I’m passionate about helping women achieve the style and look that’s perfect for them.

I’m a qualified local personal stylist (and mum of three boys!) who has been helping mums for almost 10 years look and feel amazing in their new clothes.

I was born and raised in Sweden, to a big Cantonese speaking loving family. Studied Hotel Management at Cesar Ritz College Switzerland. In the past years I have obtained significant experience in luxury hotels and private members club for families, where I’ve developed lifetime skills within personal/executive assistance, office management, meetings & events planning and being a mum.

I’m all about creating a fabulous wardrobe that fits into your lifestyle needs and budget.

You can follow me on Instagram @crstyling for everyday fashion inspiration and high street finds.

My values in life: being kind, honest, humble, positive, caring, flexible and professional.

I look forward to supporting you in any possible way.

Maria

catherine@crstyling.co.uk www.crstyling.co.uk | @crstyling

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Experienced Lifestyle PA for busy urban families

maria.lifestyle.pa@gmail.com | www.marialifestylepa.com

FamiliesSWLon

March/April 2021 • Families South West 33

FAMILY LIFE

Evidence-based parenting books (that don’t shame parents!)

By Dr Sarah Mundy

When we first have children, we can feel overwhelmed by unsolicited advice. So, where do we turn for help?

There are thousands of parenting books but no one gold standard manual that addresses every dilemma. In my experience some parenting books make us worry about getting things wrong - and I’d always avoid anything with perfect in the title! Di erent books also o er contradictory advice. We are all di erent, thankfully, and it’s important to be confident in our parental choices. So pick and choose the advice that suits you.

Here are some accessible, evidence-based and non-shame inducing parenting books that I have appreciated both as a mum and psychologist.

What To Expect – series of books (Heidi Murko ) A really helpful resource covering pre-pregnancy to the toddler years, with frequently asked questions, information about developmental milestones and advice on breastfeeding, sleep, potty training, discipline, play and communication.

No Drama Discipline – The Bestselling Parenting Guide to Nurturing Your Child’s Developing Mind (Tina Payne-Bryson and Dan Siegel) Translating up-to-date neuroscience into parenting, these authors communicate the theory in an accessible way with clear examples (often illustrated) of how to put it into practice. They have written other books that are worth reading.

Parenting handbook – helping you and your child make sense of everyday challenges (Dr Sarah Mundy) Written for parents of children ages 2 to 4, my book is short and realistic as I know it’s hard to find reading time with youngsters around. It considers emotional and behavioural development and provides top tips in areas that we often find di icult to manage – like separation anxiety, tricky behaviour, bedtime routines etc. It also introduces the importance of storytelling and the attachment relationship. Interactive children’s stories (Bartley’s Books) accompany the book, designed to help parents support their children to understand their feelings and experiences and find ways to manage them.

Other Recommendations: Calm Parents, Happy Kids: The Secrets of Stress-Free Parenting (Dr Laura Markham) Focusses on the need to manage our own feelings, as well as highlighting how children need connection and empathy.

What’s My Child Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents (Tanith Carey and Dr Angharad Rudkin) Deals with developmental milestones in the first 7 years and provides helpful advice on areas that parents commonly find di icult.

34 Families South West • March/April 2021

The Power of Showing Up - How Parental Presence Shapes Who our Kids Become and How Their Brains Get Wired (Tina Payne-Bryson and Dan Siegal) Based upon attachment science, this book outlines how parents can develop a secure attachment relationship with their child, focussing on a child’s need to be safe, seen, soothed and secure.

What Every Parent Needs to Know – Love, Nurture and Play with your Child (Margot Sutherland) Dr Sutherland is a child psychotherapist and has written many books about children’s emotional wellbeing. This book brilliantly pulls together up-to-date research into practical and accessible advice on parenting children ages of 0 to 12.

The Danish Way of Parenting – What the Happiest People In the World Know About Raising Competent, Capable Kids (Jessica Joelle Alexander and Dissing Sandahl) They must be getting something right! For me, the biggest take-away is the No Ultimatums section. I am forever telling my children that unless they do something, they won’t get something (yesterday was chocolate trifle!). This book has helped me consider the helpfulness of this approach!

Dr Sarah Mundy is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Author of Parenting Through Stories. www.parentingthroughstories.com

Books with di erent approaches The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (And Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did (Philippa Perry) This book delves more deeply into relationships and feelings and is less focussed on development milestones, strategies and techniques – not surprising as Philippa is a psychotherapist. It emphasises the importance of parents understanding themselves and their children, asking readers to think about their own experiences of being parented, as these drive how we parent, often unconsciously. In my mind, this is so important and often missed in other books. As Philippa says, this is “not a straightforward parenting book” and, at times, it can feel a bit challenging.

The Gentle Parenting Book – How to Raise Calmer, Happier Children from Birth to Seven (Sarah Ockwell-Smith) This book focusses on helping parents become confident and calm and then putting gentle parenting into practice, enabling their child to become happy, confident and secure. I like the idea of gentle parenting, but must admit I don’t get it right quite as often as I’d like to!

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Please tell advertisers you found them in Families LITTLE ANGELS NURSERY SCHOOL A Traditional Teaching Nursery - Learning through Play Ofsted rated 'Good' nursery.

Established in 2000, very homely, friendly and staff are fully qualified in Early Years. Age 3 months to 5 years with three spacious rooms to explore, learn and grow in confidence and intellect. There are two large gardens. Open all year 8am to 6pm. 15/30 hours weekly free sessions available for 2-4yrs.

Please contact our office on 020 7274 8333. info@littleangelsbrixton.co.uk www.littleangelsbrixton.co.uk 50 Gresham Road, Brixton, SW9 7NL "Overall, staff provide a stimulating learning environment where children are motivated and eager to learn" OFSTED

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FamiliesSWLon

March/April 2021 • Families South West 35

THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

THE MONTESSORI CHILDREN

HOLIDAY AND AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS

We provide a delightful environment for children from 2yrs of age. Offering the full Montessori curriculum with visiting teachers for Music, Dancing, Yoga, French, Drama, Sports & Gymnastics.

Local children up to the age of 8yrs are welcome to join in with our fun and creative activity days during school breaks.

School pick-ups and homework clubs are also available during term time.

CALL US TO BOOK A VISIT TO THE NURSERY

0208 673 8037 102 Chestnut Grove Balham, London, SW12 8JJ

TEA TIME FOR TODDLERS This session takes place from 3:30pm to 4:30pm for children from approximately 2yrs of age to attend with an adult

www.themontessorischool.co.uk

It's time for your child to shine at a FREE Perform class Perform classes are back in person this summer term and there’s no better time for your child to try a class. Packed with self-esteem boosting activities, these weekly classes will help children get back to doing the things they love most. With a focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration, Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child's potential.

The termly curriculum ensures plenty of fun, friendship and laughter, with drama games, catchy songs and funky dances. Class material is specially designed by Perform, with apps, downloads and videos for the children to enjoy at home. Small classes, run by warm, friendly and enthusiastic teachers, ensure plenty of individual attention and each child receives a Introductory progress report every ten weeks. Classes are £40 discount available for ages 4-7 and 7-12 with a new if you book by creative theme each term.

30/4/21 quoting To book a no-obligation FREE trial!

Many venues locally, visit www.perform.org.uk 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk

36 Families South West • March/April 2021

LSW300421

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FAMILY LIFE

What is family mediation?

By Louisa Dickson

“I’m getting divorced and need to find a solicitor.” This is a statement that Only Mums & Dads, a not-for-profit social enterprise that supports people through divorce, hear daily.

Their advice is always to try mediation first (where there is no domestic abuse) and if it breaks down, to try again. Divorce solicitors agree. Family court cases are notoriously expensive, long and stressful and it’s recognised that these stresses have a negative impact on children.

But the full benefits of the mediation process are not always understood. Only Mums & Dads asked Louisa Dickson of Southern Family Mediation to explain them.

Mediation is a way of resolving disagreements and making decisions about issues with the help of a specially trained Family Mediator so that you reach a situation acceptable to all parties, and avoid expending vast sums of money, time and emotional stress on going to court.

Separating from your partner when you have children is not like falling out with a friend. They are in your life for the rest of your life, and so you need to find a way to go forward as harmoniously as possible.

Mediation can help with: • • • •

Parenting arrangements for children after you break up – with whom/where/when they spend their time; Divorce; Child maintenance payments; Finances, eg. your house, savings, pension, or debts.

The alternative is going to court. Except the court isn’t there to decide on which days and times your children will spend with you and your ex. It’s there to decide on serious matters such as safeguarding.

So mediation helps you both to stay in control. It’s about compromise, negotiation and saving time AND money. It means finding your own solutions, putting your love for your children before your dislike/hate of your ex, and it o ers an opportunity to resolve conflict and improve communication.

Mediation is NOT: • • • •

Someone else telling you what to do or making decisions for you; Winning or losing; Counselling or therapy; Being told your view is right (court won’t do that either!)

Most people who start mediation reach agreement without going to court.

Visit www.onlymums.org and www.onlydads.org

Choosing a mediator Check cost. These may be outlined on their websites. If not ask them what they charge. Also ask how long they would expect mediation to take, how many sessions and what the total cost could be.

Make sure they are registered with the Family Mediation Council (FMC). All FMC mediators are trained, regulated and insured. On the web, you will find many claiming to be mediators but they may lack su icient training or regulation and are best avoided.

Check if they are a sole practitioner or part of a team.

Bigger teams can have more specialisms to deal with your particular family situation.

Have an initial chat. Everyone enters mediation with doubts and concerns and this is an ideal opportunity to talk these through. First impressions are important and it will give you the confidence to continue with the mediator you’ve chosen.

Covering all SW London postcodes.

Appointments available on Zoom.

Don’t rely solely on recommendations from friends/family.

Choosing the right mediator for you is very important and you will be the best judge.

familiesonline.co.uk

FamiliesSWLondon

March/April 2021 • Families South West 37

Calling all young Scientists!

All our applicants are personally interviewed and their references checked

Nannies, Maternity Nurses, Housekeepers and Mother’s Helps Permanent and Temporary Residential, Daily, Full and Part-Time

020 7631 6258 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Evening Babysitting Register

Tel: 020 8947 4666 Facebook: Wimbledon Nannies Twitter: @wimbledonannies Instagram: wimbledon_nannies

Help us discover how babies & kids learn!

We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s Babylab & ToddlerLab in central London.

Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses.

We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies

info@wimbledonnannies.co.uk www.wimbledonnannies.com 184 Copse Hill, SW20 0SP

Would you like to earn extra money?

To advertise in

Call: 0208 696 9680

Capital Focus Groups are looking for people who enjoy giving their opinions and are willing to share their views on the products and services they use for many of the country’s largest companies and well-known products.

It’s free, it’s fun and you will be financially rewarded as a thank you for taking part!

Register now to earn extra money, by calling Liz on 07761 128059 or e.dahlgren@btinternet.com

Need a space for a

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WE ARE OPEN FOR COVID COMPLIANT EVENTS

• Families London South West is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. • The contents of Families London South West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London South West. • Designed and Printed by Ridgeway Press, Wilts. • Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families SW, our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. • Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources.

TRAVEL

Staycations 2021 Ideas and inspiration for UK holidays

By Claire Winter

It looks like travel restrictions may be here for a while yet, so here are Families top ideas for places where you can enjoy a brilliant staycation in the UK this year!

Experience a 5 Star hostel

Stay on a private island

Visit an island retreat

Enjoy dog friendly Luxury

The Rocks at Plas Curi is a privately-owned luxury hostel and holiday cottage, a stone’s throw from Snowdon, and a short drive to the North Wales coastline and the awardwinning Zip World sites (with 10% o for hostel guests).

Family-friendly but boutique, bedrooms are spacious with private showers. Enjoy walking and biking adventures, paddleboards and even wild swimming, plus soak up the peace at the new outdoor fire pit with mountain backdrop in the evening. Dogs welcome.

A private island o Scotland’s west coast, Eilean Shona was visited by JM Barrie and was his inspiration for Neverland, the fictional world where Peter Pan enjoyed his adventures.

It still provides children and families with a magical stay in one of nine cottages. When not discovering the network of tempting paths along the coast or through the enchanting woodland and hills, days are filled with wild swimming, kayaking, painting, building camp fires or visiting the glorious beach at Shoe Bay.

The Isles of Scilly o er the perfect alternative to a European break. Lying just 28 miles o the Cornish coast, these are a group of sandfringed islands bathed in the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. The islands are the regions best kept secret with car-free roads and empty beaches. Life here moves at a slower pace, as relaxing as the rhythm of the tides. Travel by air with Skybus flights from Land’s End, Newquay or Exeter Airports, or by sea on the ferry from Penzance.

Families and pooches are welcome at Bovey Castle & Spa in Devon. Perfect for a child-friendly stay in a relaxed, character-filled, five-star country house hotel, located in Dartmoor National Park.

Choose between dog-friendly family hotel rooms and private lodges and enjoy archery, deer park tours, nature trails and walking routes within the 275 acre estate. There’s also a spa with an indoor swimming pool and a pooch parlour where your furry friends can spruce up!

www.therockshostel.com

www.eilieanshona.com

www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk

www.boveycastle.com

Eco glamping experience

Four poster luxury

Top of the treehouse

Stay in a boutique jail

Check out Welsh Glamping, located in Powys Wales. The site opened mid-2020 and is set among 185 acres of wild farmland and waterfalls.

Guests can spend the day exploring the valley and nearby villages or walking, hiking and wild swimming in the nearby waterfalls. Choose from luxury log cabins, Lotus Belle Tents or stay in a cute cottage.

Stay at Crewe Hall in the stunning Cheshire countryside with walking trails and bike routes galore. Enjoy a suite with a four poster bed, a rejuvenating spa, the heated swimming pool and famed afternoon tea. The area boasts a host of family attractions such as the magical Gulliver’s World and the adrenalin rides of Alton Towers.

Winchcombe Farm Holidays has Warwickshire’s only treehouse, o ering the height of luxury and nestling in four sycamore and ash trees – three of them growing through the outside deck and one even growing through the kitchen!

There are five unique places to stay at this gorgeous glamping retreat on the Warwickshire/ Cotswolds border.

The Bodmin Jail Hotel has been transformed from the walls of an 18th century prison into a 4-star boutique hotel.

Perfectly positioned in the heart of Cornwall, just minutes from both coasts, it’s the ideal spot to linger. Many of the bedrooms have been created by transforming three former cells – the kids are sure to love a night behind bars!

www.welshglamping.com

www.crewehallcheshire.co.uk

www.winchcombefarm.co.uk

www.bodminjailhotel.com

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FamiliesSWLon

March/April 2021 • Families South West 39

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