Families London South West Mar 2011

March 2011

Issue No. 204 ISSN 1354-9553 Est. 1990

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SouthWest FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk • Easter Holiday

Activities • Olympics 2012 • Organise a

Street Party • Childcare cuts

Picture credit: Mamas & Papas

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

Paint your own Pottery Everyone Can Do It! Parties for Birthday, Hen, Office & any get together Capture your Baby’s Footprints forever Personalise Gifts, Commissions, Gift Vouchers Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-6pm 85 Nightingale Lane, Wandsworth SW12 8NX 020 8772 8702 www.smartypaints.co.uk

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March 2011

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Our comprehensive Easter activities listings are only online!!

Contents 04-05

Local news & information

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Family walks in Mortlake East Sheen, SW14

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Peeping at postcodes

Familiessouthwest.co.uk/holidayactivities

MARCH 2011

Maggie researches the best things and places in Brixton SW2/SW9

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Live entertainment shows

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Tried and tested

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SouthWest

A great local Spa, plus a really good online tutoring service

Families® South West All content ©Families 2011

PO Box 4302, London SW16 1ZS www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 Fax: 020 8696 9679

How to enjoy quality Easter time Where to find all Easter listings Easter egg hunts, workshops, camps, museum workshops etc.

Next issue: April 2011 Deadline: early March • “Families® South West” heads a group of magazines. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

• There are over 30 UK local editions with a print run of more than 500,000 copies in all, in which you can advertise too. Oh, and we have a big website… familiesonline.co.uk • MOVING? Families® magazines can be be franchised in new areas.

Read initial franchise information on the website or call.

• Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd, Tadley, Hants.

Picture credit: Mamas & Papas

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Competitions

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Organise a Street Party

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Countdown to Olympics 2012 Get involved!

We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

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Paper used to print Families is from fullymanaged sustainable sources — meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced. Inks are soya-based, which can be re-cycled.

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Book reviews

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Order your FREE FSW magazine PDF

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What’s On

Find us on Facebook!

Families SW London

March 2011

Easter time

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Editorial: editor@familiesmagazine.co.uk News: news@familiesmagazine.co.uk Adverts/artwork: adverts@familiesmagazine.co.uk Personal ads: personalads@familiesmagazine.co.uk Events, diary dates, whats on info: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Childcare feature Will childcare cuts affect you?

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

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local news

compiled by Joanna Parry

Inclusion in these pages is always FREE

Rock star kids This winter sees a fantastic new concept in children’s birthday parties burst onto the scene in South West London – the Rockstars party. A studio in Balham High Road plays host to your party to remember, offering you a fantastic level of expertise and advice, along with a top quality recording studio with first rate facilities. Their Rockstars Recording Studio Parties are open to children aged 7 years upwards and are for up to 10 children. At your party the birthday girl or boy can pick up to 3 songs for everyone to sing, with each child receiving a group photograph to take home with them. There is a great range of parties for all budgets, or the studio can arrange a personalised, bespoke party for you. If your children play in a band and would like to record with instruments, they can even accommodate that.

From the cool Rockstar CD invitations you’ll be provided with to send out to your friends, to the party snacks and take home CD for each child, a Rockstars party promises to be a party to remember. Go to www.rockrecordingstudios.co.uk, call 020 8767 1125 or email enquiries@gubbinsproductions.co.uk for more information.

Flip a little

Shop ‘til you drop A new boutique has hit the streets of Barnes.

‘Nina’ is a new lifestyle boutique in the heart of SW13, providing a one-stop-shop for a gorgeous outfit for you, a gift for a friend or treats for the kids. If you are looking for unusual and interesting fashion, jewellery, homeware and gifts sourced from all over the globe, then Nina is for you. Set up by Barnes resident and mother of three Nina Dimond-Brown, it offers an eclectic selection of goods, with luxury yet functional clothes made from 100% natural fibres such as silk and cashmere. “I was fed up with seeing the same stuff trotted out in so many shops in London,” says Nina.

“I wanted to inject some fun and some luxury with a twist into Barnes.” Discover labels from across the globe, including Juliette Longuet from France and Lucid New York alongside the coolest of British knits, as well as handmade linen from Finland and ceramics from Spain. You can even bring the kids to spend their pocket money on Hello Kitty and other well-known toy brands. Keep those wallets handy! Nina, 55 Church Road, Barnes, SW13 9HH, www.shopnina.co.uk

Hypnotherapist achieves CNHC Registration This winter, a Putney-based hypnotherapist has achieved a new national standard for her practice.

Marygrace Anderson has been registered by the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), the government-backed UK regulatory body for complementary healthcare practitioners, a recognition that places her at the forefront of a national drive to provide a benchmark for standards and safety for the public. “Achieving CNHC registration is not only great news for me and my clients,” says Marygrace, “but a vital step for hypnotherapy.”

Hypnotherapy is a treatment using hypnosis to alter the way you feel or change aspects of your life that need improving, with incredible success rates in helping overcome phobias, panic attacks, stress reduction, weight loss and stopping smoking, among other conditions. Marygrace adds, “by providing a verification of standards, the CNHC allows GPs and hospitals to refer patients with confidence to practitioners of hypnotherapy and to make the therapy more readily available in health centres, doctor’s surgeries and hospitals.” Marygrace works out of the Putney Clinic and Drakefield Homeopathy in Putney - for further information contact Marygrace on 07931 547414 or email mghypnosis@aol.com. www.mghypnosis.co.uk

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

Have you got a little flipper in your family?

Or perhaps a back flipper, or even a cheerleader? If so, check out Backflip Performers for a range of gymnastics classes across South West London for children aged 2 – 12, from Little Flippers for pre-school children, a great way for 2-4 year olds to develop body awareness and learn coordination and agility, all the way up to advanced back flippers, cheerleaders and breakdancers, not forgetting adult fitness classes, holiday camps and private parties.

Set up by 5-times British Champion Katie Cannon, the classes have been running since 2008 but this winter new classes are opening in East Dulwich, Richmond, Brentford, Barnes and Wimbledon. For more information call 020 8940 7998 or go to www.backflipperformers.com

House of Sweetling For age appropriate teen bras that are funky and fun, look no further than www.sweetling.co.uk Dedicated to designing and making unique and beautiful bras that are free from underwiring and padding, Sweetling was created by local mums Maria and Sophie (who have 8 children between them!) when they couldn't find any stylish, natural fabric bras for their own daughters.

Sweetling first bras offer an alternative to the synthetic moulded, underwired bras that are being pushed towards young girls, and are designed to support breast tissue whilst it is developing. For great tips on how to have healthy breasts, go to healthybreastscampaign.com where you can order your free Breast Health Pack, which includes advice for protecting your daughters' breasts. Sweetling bras are available for £23.95 from their website, or through John Lewis stores. www.sweetling.co.uk

March 2011

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local news

Calling all drama Kings and Queens Why not kick off 2011 with classes for your little ones at Debutots? Their fun-filled story-telling and dramatic play classes mesmerise, energise and inspire children aged 6 months to 7 years – a place where imaginations soar, communication skills grow and creativity and confidence blossom. At Debutots, 2011 starts with a magical journey through Traditional World Stories, before jumping straight into a Colour Crazy world, meeting Princess Clementine and Rita the Rainbow Ranger, and finally Animal Adventures will creatively explore the animal kingdom. Your little ones will love it! For more information on classes in the Clapham, Balham and Wimbledon area, contact Rachel on 020 8672 5963 or Rachel@debutots.co.uk. www.debutots.co.uk

NEW The drop-in Anglo-Italian Playgroup Busybees playgroup is now held every Friday from 11am 12pm at 75 Stane Grove SW9 9AL www.intelligenteachers.co.uk

Congratulations!

Local school Streatham and Clapham High School are proud to announce their success in the Surrey U15 Gymnastics Competition, in which they took the title, beating top gym schools such as Tormead and Croydon who have both won numerous times in the past. The girls competed on floor and vault and their combined score placed them clearly in first place.

The team also earned a second place at the Carita House Gymnastics U16 competition before Christmas, narrowly missing out on a place to compete in the National Finals this March. Head of PE at SCHS, Liz Basson, says, “The last time we earned a place in a Surrey Competition was in 2001. Not only are these girls brimming with talent, they have also worked in credibly hard. They thoroughly deserve their success.”

Are you a new-ish mum in business?

Done networking lunches yet?

Motivatingmum organises events to give advice, support and affordable opportunities to meet while networking, finding new business, sharing experiences, ideas and developing confidence.

Give it a try! In February Laura Tenison, (above) founder and Managing Director of the hugely popular JoJo Maman Bébé kindly shared her tips at the Businessmums’ Networking Lunch in Wandsworth.

Next up is on the 15th March Businessmums networking lunch with Joanne Nye of Glam-Net.com at The Firestables, Wimbledon Village.Check details on www.motivatingmum.co.uk

Walk into spring As the weather (hopefully!) grows warmer, a new campaign from Hi-Tec, Walking for Wellness, encourages us all to set ourselves a rewarding goal and get out in the great British countryside to walk for wellness, rather than weightloss. Walking has been proven to have a positive effect on many different areas, including mental health, living longer, preventing illness and strengthening the immune system as well as our bones. It’s true – the very fact that you are out and about exercising means your body will be releasing endorphins which will boost your mood and take you away from the stresses and strains of everyday life. On top of that, in 2010 a study by the World Cancer Research Fund found that about 10,000 cases of breast and bowel cancer could be prevented in the UK each year if people did more brisk walking, while researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine discovered that regular daily walking strengthens the brain’s memory circuits.

They even recommended that those with Alzheimer’s should walk five miles per week to reduce the chances of the disease getting worse and that by walking six miles per week, healthy people could reduce their chances of developing it. Plus, experts have found that regular exercise is linked with reduced mortality rates, meaning that walkers live longer. No more excuses – get out there and get walking! For more walking tips and kit advice visit www.Hi-Tec.com

March 2011

Jenny Gore of Jambaroo

Buy British Check out the very latest in British design: recently launched, www.jambaroo.co.uk features the very best of British made and designed children’s clothing, gifts and accessories. Their products are unique and handmade here in Britain, bringing the best of British design to your front door while keeping your carbon footprint to a minimum.

Choose from gorgeous pinafore dresses, divine fairy-tale themed pyjamas and slippers and appliquéd t-shirts. I love their Grand Old Duke and Hickory Dickory Dock cushions for £45.00.

Shop online, shop green and shop British at www.jambaroo.co.uk

You should find a leaflet from Perform Drama in this issue. Call 0845 400 1278 for more information.

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local news ElectroMagnetic Radiation We reported on the danger of mobiles and WIFI to children in our last issue. Did you know cordless phones are just as bad? — if not even worse?

Do you have cordless phones at home? If you use a cordless home phone the radiation pulses 24/7 and penetrates walls and ceilings.

If you sleep next to or in a room above the base station your sleep patterns will be disturbed and your melatonin production will be affected. Headaches and misbehaviour in children are other side effects. Inform yourselves! There is loads of evidence out there.

For convenience we've put up the must watch videos, recent articles in the media and a forum on www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation If you are pregnant you need to pay even more attention. Join the debate online at www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiationtalk

Guess how far a microwave oven leaks radiation?

Watch our video and be amazed! very amazed! www.familiesonline.co.uk/Radiation

Forgotten all your French?

How about spending an hour a week practising your rusty French over a glass of wine or two in a relaxed atmosphere?

Le Club Tricolore hosts The French Cocktail Party on Monday evenings from 6.30pm at Couleur Café on Webbs Road. This is a great opportunity to meet friends, catch up on local gossip and network with professionals en français. Wine is served as well as soft drinks to help the language flow and native French speakers are at hand if anyone gets stuck! If you are learning French, then this is also a good opportunity to practise and improve your command of the language, as all levels are catered for. Each guest receives an e mail the following day with words and phrases used during the session. One enthusiast said: “It's like being in France for an hour a week!” Mondays 6.30 – 7.30pm at Couleur Café 32 Webbs Road, SW11 There is also a French Coffee Morning on Wednesdays from 9.30 – 10.30am.

For more details call Teresa: 07889 967 003

New venues for lovely Tin Pan Annie!

Tin Pan Annie Music, London’s most loved pre-school music company, run really fantastic classes for babies and young children, as well as providing brilliant party entertainment. Music is the single most important tool in a child’s early learning and development and classes are specifically written to enable little ones to gain the maximum benefits from music, captivate and stimulate children’s imaginations – no matter how young the baby, and being great fun for both the children and their grown-ups!

Live music, percussion instruments, props, posters, bubbles and more! Check out their Easter Holidays on www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/holidayactivities New classes held in Putney on Wednesday mornings and at the Wilditch Community Centre, just off Battersea High Street, on Wednesday mornings as well as lots of new classes in existing venues across South London.

FREE TRIAL. www.tinpanannie.co.uk, tinpanannie@btinternet.com 8670 0644

Italian Conversation with literature This Italian class will continue reading and discussing the booklet “Ti ho sposata per allegria” by Natalia Ginzburg, all in italian, ‘naturalmente’! and in a friendly small group. Grammar points will be explained and excellent exercises will be provided by the textbook “Espresso 3”. At the BCA Rose House, 70 Barnes High Street on Wednesdays 11.45 to 13.45 from the 2nd March to the 25th May. To enrol call Stefania on 020 8748 6418. For more Italian classes in Richmond see website www.racc.ac.uk

Simple tips for mums

- useful advice?

From Mia Holman, Director of Culture Kids www.culture-kids.com

It is not only fun but also educational to teach your children about celebrations from around the world. Thursday 17th March is St Patricks Day, a day where all things Irish are celebrated.

You can start the day by teaching them to do the Riverdance……. only joking!

Put on some traditional Irish music and let the day begin.

Irish soda bread is not only delicious but also really easy to make too.

In our Culture Kitchen cooking classes we have the two year-olds making this so there really are no excuses.

1/2 cup sugar 2 cups white flour 2 cups whole wheat flour 1 tsp salt 4 tbsp butter 11/2 cups plain yogurt or buttermilk 1 cup raisins 2 tsp baking soda

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Combine all the dry ingredients into a bowl and mix.

Add in butter and rub between fingers until the mixture has a breadcrumb consistency. Now, add the raisins and either yogurt or buttermilk before transferring to a floured surface and knead for a minute or so. When done, manipulate dough into a flat round. Cut an ‘X’ shape into the top and place on a greased baking tray. Place in a preheated oven at 350°F, and leave to bake for three quarters of an hour. Once cooked, place the loaf on a wire rack to cool down. Serve warm with Irish butter!

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

While you wait for the bread to cook you can have a go at making an Irish flag.

Either use paint or scraps of green, white and orange tissue for a collage.

For older children you can make a worksheet for them.

Print off an A4 picture of the Irish flag from Google images and get them to write as many things that are the same colour as the flag stripes in each section.

Grass Snow Satsuma Apple Clouds Tiger

March 2011

Family walks in South West London

SW14 Mortlake and East Sheen Taking you far out into the leafy suburbs, this walk features a glimpse of historic Mortlake and the Thames riverside, before visiting Palewell Common and the willow-lined Beverley Brook, unobtrusively making its silent way through Richmond Park Distance: 41/2 miles.

Time: 2-21/2 hours.

Terrain: Pavements and footpaths, which can be muddy enough to require walking boots in wet weather.

Food and drink: A choice of cafés in East Sheen, a café at Roehampton Gate, and a snack kiosk at Palewell Common. There are several pubs on the route, including The Ship at Mortlake and The Plough at East Sheen.

Toilets: Sheen Lane, Mortlake, Palewell Common, Richmond Park.

Start and Finish: Mortlake station. Trains from Clapham Junction, Putney etc. Buses 33, 337, and 493 stop nearby in Upper Richmond Road, East Sheen, while Bus 419 calls at Ship Lane.

The Beverley Brook flowing through Richmond Park

Spencer Cottages

Memories of past times, Upper Richmond Road

South-West London Walks, 30 enjoyable walks for the whole family

By Patrick Hamilton, £9.95.

Patrick is always happy to send copies out post-free (sometimes even delivered by hand while on a walk!).

Email him on capitaltravelbooks63@yahoo.co.uk Or call 07939 260405

We love this book by local author Patrick Hamilton. There are 30 walks to try out, 2 – 5 miles long, that seek out the most interesting parts of the SW postcode area. Walk in areas you perhaps didn’t know like Knightsbridge, Westminster, to Barnes, Putney, Wimbledon, Streatham, and just about everywhere in between. Unexpected delights for the whole family to discover. The book can be purchased from Wimbledon Books, Bolingbroke Bookshop, Village Bookshop at Wandsworth Common, Clapham Books, and branches of Waterstone’s, as well as several outlets in central London. It is also stocked at Little Rascals toyshop of course, Patrick owns the shop! 140 Merton Road, South Wimbledon. There’s a great range of traditional soft and wooden toys to discover.

March 2011

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You should find a leaflet from Ruggerbeez in this issue. See their website for more information.

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March 2011

Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools WWW.DAWMOUSE.COM There are now two established Montessori Nursery schools in Fulham bearing the Dawmouse name. The original Dawmouse Brunswick in Haldane Road, SW6 7EU and Dawmouse St Peter’s at St Peter’s Terrace, SW6 7JS. Both schools offer a wide range of Montessori equipment and have outdoor play areas. They will offer a safe, stimulating and active environment in which children can have fun and achieve.

The broad curriculum covers all areas of the Early Learning Goals and includes science, drama, cookery and music lessons.

Project work will give the children scope for creative development as well as an increased understanding of their world.

We insist on our staff being Montessori trained teachers.

For a prospectus and a visit to view the schools please contact : www.dawmouse.com or speak with Miss Emma 020 7381 9385

Bilingual education since 1996 The French Nursery School For children from 2 years old to 5 years old.

(Toddler group from 1yr) Morning or afternoon sessions available Full time sessions 9h - 15h

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

The Belgravia Nursery School Bilingual Nursery school French/ English.

For children 2-5 years. (Toddler group from 1yr) Part time session 9h - 12h Full time session 9h - 15h • 15h35-17h

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

SW7 and SW1 The Spanish out of school club for children For a brochure please call from 2 to 5 years old.

Marie-Laurence Edmonstone Toddler Group from 1 year old 020 7259 21 51 marie-laurence@thefrenchnurseryschool.com

March 2011

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Maggie’s treasure trove: SW9/SW2

Maggie O’Brien continues her search for the best things and places in SW London... this month SW9/SW2 Brixton Mention Brixton to some people and immediately their reaction can be somewhat wary. There has indeed been bad press over the years, but with renown for The Fridge and Brixton Academy it boasts some of the very best in theatre and celebrity concerts. It is a Transition Town* with its very own currency: the Brixton Pound. During my recent visit, I found parts of it absolutely charming: the Electric Avenue Market felt just that, ‘electric’ and I particularly liked the Brixton Village Market.

There is an excellent, well positioned Recreation Centre with a huge range of activities on offer, as well as ‘The Ritzy’ cinema, one of the oldest cinemas in the UK. If department stores are your thing, then mosey on down to Morley’s, in Brixton Road.

There is heart and soul in Brixton, a place that feels really alive. As ever in these introductory reviews, I am only able to sprinkle about a few ideas, but do go and experiment, there’s plenty more to discover!

Brixton Village Relay Tea Room I felt really spoilt for choice as to where to go on my tour of this now revamped indoor market, it is full of character, complete with the original glass roof, I particularly loved the Relay Tea Room. Set up by Mpho (mother of 3 children, including a young baby), and her sister Nonki, it had only been open for a couple of days but it had success written all over it. The sisters felt that there was a gap in the market, with plenty of coffee shops everywhere, now it was ‘Time for Tea’. Aimed at everyone from parents in between nursery drop offs, to local traders, musicians, artists and shoppers. A quick cuppa and catch up in a gorgeous setting. The seats are even hand covered in patchwork by the two sisters. (They alone are worth a look)!

“We built and made everything with love from the kitchen cupboards to the cakes. We hope it will be a chance to do the ordinary in a special way”. With the cake stands and proper tablecloths, as well as the inviting array of teas and cakes on offer, I’m sure Mpho and Nonki will do very well.

Studio 73 – Photography Another very new addition to the Village, is Studio 73 run by Adrian Flower.

“I set up Studio 73 in an effort to bring my photography to a very vibrant area in south London . I love the ability to capture life in a colourful way”. Adrian believes that life is about smiling and being happy and photographing these moments, he thinks helps put a spring in his step. It is important to him that Studio 73 is a celebration of life through the medium of photography.

(Studio 73 is offering a free portrait session and a free print for every Families reader; simply mention the magazine when you get in touch).

WAGfree What a great name for a Wheat & Gluten free bakery cum café cum deli. It’s clean, inviting and attractive, and managed to lure me in to try and test one of the sumptuous loaves of bread (made with almond flour) on offer. Yes, I can vouch for it being absolutely too delicious and yes, I do mean I ate the entire loaf!

Set up by David Scrace, a coeliac sufferer, who found it very difficult to find nutritious and quality foods in his limited choices. After working in Dubai for a couple of years developing some ideas, he returned and set up this new venture. A very useful resource for those with wheat and gluten allergies and intolerances and particularly helpful for children. “It’s great, usually it’s so hard to find tasty products for my daughter, a coeliac sufferer”, said Jen, a local young mother.

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

March 2011

Peeping at postcodes Brixton Library As well as being very central and easily accessible from the tube station, the library offers free drop in sessions for the under 5’s: Storytelling & Parent & Toddler Groups on Tuesdays 10.30am -12am and Chatterbooks Reading Group for 8-12 year olds.

Brixton Market

Recreation Centre Brixton’s Recreation Centre has too many classes on offer to mention them all here (see website for full listings). The Crèche Play and Learn for under 5’s, the Play Zone for under 11’s, the Energy Zone for 5-15’s and the Fitness Zone for 8-15’s seem particularly worth a mention; as does the Team Zone for 3-15’s, a 3G pitch is an indoor 3rd generation Astroturf football pitch where courses for 3-15 year olds are held in partnership with Fulham Football Club Foundation. Take along those budding Beckhams!

The Centre is also available for Birthday Parties, with a wide range of affordable parties for under 16 year olds. With Holiday Clubs and Swimming, what else could you ask for?

The Volunteer Centre I’m always heartened to find a dedicated Volunteer Centre. Run as a charity, the Centre is devoted to getting people involved, giving their time to do something useful without getting paid (apart from expenses).

‘Volunteering can be a great way to obtain satisfaction of time and effort well spent. The Centre actively helps people to identify voluntary opportunities in and around Lambeth that match their skills and interests’ (The Volunteer Centre).

So, a place of huge interest, from the inspirational sculptures of massive cherries and a fox sitting up high above the Market on Electric Avenue (by Lucy Casson) to a night at the flicks at The Ritzy, yes, I liked Brixton!

Further information: Brixton Market -Electric Avenue – Best Information at: Lambeth Council, Town Hall, London. SW2 1RW Tel: 020 7926 1000 info@lambeth.gov.uk Brixton Village Market – Coldharbour lane, London. SW9 8PS Tel: 020 7274 2990 Relay Tea room – 74 5th Avenue, Brixton Village, London. SW9 8PS relay.boutique@gmail.com / www.relay-boutique.blogspot.com Studio 73 – 73 Brixton Village, Coldharbour Lane, London. SW9 8PS Tel: 020 7537 2851 WAGfree – 26 Brixton Village, London. SW9 / www.wagfreefood.com Brixton Recreation Centre – 27 Brixton Station Road, London. SW9 8QQ Tel: 020 7926 9779/9780 www.gll.org.brixton The Volunteer Centre – 35 Brixton Station Road, London. SW2 8PB Tel: 020 7326 5490 www.lambethvac.org.uk Parks & Open Spaces – Lambeth council; parks@lambeth.gov.uk Tel: 020 7926 9000 The Ritzy Cinema – Brixton Oval, London. SW2 1JG Tel: 0871 902 5739 Brixton Library – (Along from ‘The Ritzy’), SW2 1JG (see Lambeth Council website for information on further details).

Other Suggestions;

The Ritzy Cinema

In Brixton Village: Pink Hair Salon (looks like something out of ‘Hairspray’); Federation Café (great coffee says Mpho of The Relay Tea Room); Ella’s Seafood Kitchen (looks so inviting); and Peggy B Cupcakes (ubiquitous and fashionable).

ALSO: Community - 6, First Ave, Granville Arcade, Brixton Village Market, London.

SW9 - filled with ways to do things to help the environment; includes useful information and advice on Brixton Reuse Centre – (BRC) www.remadeinbrixton.org ; Transition Town Brixton – organises “everyone and anyone to share food, skills, inspiration and connect with Transition Town Brixton, Brixton Pound, Green Community, Remade in Brixton, Brixton Skill Share, Brixton Low Carbon Zone and more....” www.transtiontownbrixton.org Brixton low carbon zone www.lambeth.gov.uk/brixtonlcz Tel: 020 7926 3473 AND....

Morleys of Brixton Ltd – 472-488 Brixton Road, London. SW9 8EH Tel: 020 7274 6246 (A refreshing change from the usual chains).

Formerly The Electric Pavilion and one of England’s oldest purpose built cinemas, The Ritzy is a multi screen complex with a bar and café. It has a regular slot for new parents with babies and films for children every Saturday. There is invariably something interesting going on in the Gallery Space too. This is an increasingly popular and stylish cinema south of the river.

* Transition Towns These are groups of people raising awareness on local environmental issues.

Why not join your local group?

See www.familiessouthwest.co.uk to read an article about local Transition Towns.

Parks and green spaces Max Roach Park, Rush common, and Windrush Square Brixton certainly doesn’t lack green and open spaces. Max Roach includes a nature trail and a purpose built play area and extends into Rush Common, which has a dog free play area. Windrush Square named after the original boat that sailed over from Jamaica with new settlers, the SS Windrush, (Brixton is full of history) is a great place to sit, chill and maybe take in a musical concert and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.

March 2011

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Tried and tested Amanda’s Family Extravaganza at London’s Clapham Grand

Fancy Footwork 10th Anniversary Showcase performance of Coppelia

On Saturday 12th March 2011, 2-5pm join Amanda and Special Guest Performers for an unforgettable song and dance Spectacular at London’s Clapham Grand.

On Sunday 6th March at the New Wimbledon Theatre, 5:30pm pupils from the Wandsworth based ballet school, Fancy Footwork, will be performing the much loved story of Coppelia (with a local twist!).

There will also be special guest performances by members of the English National Ballet.

A packed line-up guarantees something for everyone - from toddlers to teenagers and mums and dads too. Action Amanda will get the afternoon underway with one of her interactive fun, fitness and music sessions.

Popstar Alison Wheeler (of the Beautiful South) will then join Amanda to sing funky songs from Amanda’s music albums.

Professional break dancer Will Baki is up next to show the kids how to bust some serious moves in a dance workshop.

Zumba instructor Fu Lin will then invites you to shake your stuff in her high-energy zumba class - it’s calorie-burning, fantastic fun.

Finally Danny Oliver, the UK’s No.1 Michael Jackson Tribute Artist and Celena Cherry, the chart-topping lead vocalist with the Honeyz join forces to give an unmissable tribute to the late King of Pop. Healthy food and hot and cold drinks for all ages will be available for purchase, provided by Fait Maison.

Tickets cost £10 per head. So call 0844 847 2438 or visit www.ticketweb.co.uk or www.amandasactionclub.co.uk

Tickets available from £25 with all profits to go to local children’s charity, The Elifar Foundation.

For tickets please visit: www.ambassadortickets. com/New-WimbledonTheatre or call 0844 871 7646 For further information on Fancy Footwork, the classes on offer and other events, please visit www.fancyfootwork.co.uk or email info@fancyfootwork.co.uk

and a devoted fan of Families Magazines. “We hope our customers enjoy receiving our e-newsletters every now and then and will fully support our facebook, twitter and blog Congratulations to Labels4Kids for winning Internet Retailer of the Year page including the parents forum. We are interested in any topics for discussion you 2010 First Prize. would like to talk about and welcome ideas for discussion topics or new products.”

Labels4kids is not just about selling name labels and ID products. We actively Labels4kids success is based on quality products and an ever changing and encourage a “labels4kids community” to help each other and talk about children updating website which is well laid out and easy to use. This year will see a related issues on our blog and forum. Make some noise … join us! website upgrade with better titles on their pages, an easier to use checkout and an www.labels4kids.com/blog for our blog updated more sleek looking wide-screen layout. or join them on Facebook and remember to click the LIKE button!

“Here at Labels4kids we like to think about the customer first and make their To order. www.labels4kids.com/fam shopping experience an enjoyable one”, says Ann-Maree Morrison, Company Director make sure you add the /fam after the web address!

Internet Retailer of the Year 2010

Creativity Classes for Children Seasonal themes Drawing, watercolour painting and crafts On Wednesdays 4.30/6pm (French/English speaking) Thursdays 4.15 – 5.45pm (English speaking)

The Dovehouse studio is a safe and nurturing space for children to develop their creativity and skills. We provide scope for artistic continuity and growth on a short, mid and long term basis.

One to one sessions available For booking or info please call us on 07976 751559 or 07775 682094

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March 2011

Tried and tested Check into a great local spa review by Kim Cotgrove (who works here at Families office) If you're looking for hush and calm, perhaps a well-earned break from the children, you'll find it at Spa Verta in Battersea.

We experienced a muscle-melt massage treatment followed by lounging in the hydrotherapy pool - beautiful water quality, then sat back and watched the twinkling stars in the ceiling of the steam room. Alongside the beautifully serene thermal suite, there is a fitness suite (why not take out a membership?) and we loved the ‘experience showers’, choose ice rain or tropical!

A swanky and handy option for those arriving in the capital by helicopter, Hotel Verta is adjacent to the London Heliport in Battersea and is a stylish modern 70-bedroom riverside hotel decorated with vintage objets in keeping with the theme of aviation.

Exquisite Valpolicella was recommended by the sommelier as we sat in the Patrisey Restaurant (the Anglo-Saxon name for Battersea) overlooking the Thames and I felt excitement seeing the landing lights marking heliport at night. A vast selection of European dishes are served from the open-plan kitchen, and ours were beautifully presented with impeccable service, look out for the Dark Chocolate Fondant oozing over pistachio ice-cream.

Enjoy a family lunch at the weekend with the children watching helicopters take off (the windows are tripleglazed) or meet a girlfriend at the spa and sip champagne in the Vertilon Bar!

Hotel Verta, London's Vertical Gateway, Bridges Wharf Battersea, SW11 3BE 020 7801 3500, www.hotelverta.com

March 2011

One to one tuition – online Brightsparks one-to-one tuition, for students aged 7 to 16, from only £12 per hour. All tutors are all maths graduates, trained in the UK curriculum.

By Aphra Liddington, 11 years old: “On my first visit to the Brightspark website it was clearly laid out and user friendly. Booking the lessons was quick and easy and there was even an option to look at past papers or take selfassessment tests. At the beginning of my first lesson I was slightly nervous but as the lesson progressed, I grew more accustomed to online tutoring and found it enjoyable.

The Brightspark tutors give very clear instructions in a firm and friendly manner.

I was encouraged to solve maths problems with gentle persuasion and received lots of praise when I was successful. This approach really boosted my confidence.

After my lesson my mum received an email about my maths lesson giving information on my progress and areas to work on. She liked that.

I recommend this site to parents and children and the only area that I feel could be better is the initial introduction to the tutor. I would have liked a five minute chat to get to know my tutor before the lesson started. Apart from that it was exciting and I have learnt so much in a short time. I give it 9/10 and will definitely be using it again.”

• Her mother was very impressed indeed. Her daughter’s tutoring made huge difference to her child. She found it ‘brilliant’ and now actively recommends to her friends. What more can you ask for? www.brightsparkeducation.com

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Easter holiday activities

Enjoy quality time with your children this Easter

By Joanna Parry

The Little Gym Wandsworth.

Fun gymnastic-based Easter camps.

020 8874 6567 www.thelittlegym.co.uk

Funky Moves Modern Moves for Modern Kids 07810 431101 www.funkymovesdance.com

This year our comprehensive Easter Activities Listing is not here, it is online: www.families southwest.co.uk/holiday activities It is full to bursting with workshops, camps, classes, etc.

Log on now…

Whether you’re a working parent or a full-time mum desperate to fill a long school holiday, all you need is a bit of planning to make it fun and memorable! With a few inspired ideas, and the help of our amazing Easter Listings online, you can avoid the tantrums and enjoy your time together.

1. Plan the day The holidays are a great time to spend real time with your children. It can be hard at first, throwing yourself into games and activities, but this is the stuff that childhood memories are made of. It is important to plan your day: write out a holiday timetable of activities such as painting and board games for the morning and playing in the garden and a small amount of TV in the afternoon. If you let them drift from one cartoon to the other you’ll both get frustrated very soon!

2. Activities at home With a little thought, you can come up with dozens of fun things to do at home, from building castles out of rubbish to dens in the garden, but when you run out of ideas, here are a few more.

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let your hair down and release your innerchild. Go out in the garden with your kids, make mud pies, dig for worms and make dens out of sheets and washing lines. Light a fire and cook a few sausages.

Smarty Paints Pottery

020 8772 8702

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pass the parcel. Why save it for parties?

Your kids can do the wrapping too using old newspaper, with prizes as simple as a sticker or packet of raisins.

hardboil some eggs and paint with food colouring. (or better empty them first by blowing contents out) When they are dry they are great for egg rolling - if you haven't got a hill, a slide will do!

Stagecoach Wimbledon New! 2 day drama workshop 020 8946 3400 wimbledon@stagecoach.co.uk

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water painting - paint with a clean paintbrush and a pot of water outside on walls, paving slabs, fences. It’s very effective and the sun removes the evidence!

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put a cloth on floor as a picnic rug and serve lunch on living room floor. Or in the garden.

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decorate biscuits by mixing icing sugar and water in a bowl to make runny icing and decorate with smarties. Make pasta jewelry

invest in some Play-Doh, art supplies and face paints and get creative, ignore the mess for the duration of the holidays: no relative allowed to visit!

Painting Studio Fun paint your own ceramic eggs!

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home camping – hang a tablecloth over furniture, add a torch and a sleeping bag and have some fun!

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roll a sheet of newspaper into a ball and play volleyball over a washing line.

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make salt dough with 3 cups of plain flour, 1 cup salt and 1 cup water. Model it like playdough and dry out finished models in a cool oven. Then paint and varnish.

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treasure hunt – hide toys or sweets around the home and give your kids clues to find them. Kids like setting the hunts too.

Alternatively, devise a nature trail where they have to find a series of items such as different coloured leaves.

March 2011

Easter holiday activities 3. Invite their friends over

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Let them set up a home cinema in your living room: they can close the curtains, rearrange the furniture, make tickets and prepare snacks before putting on their favourite DVD.

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apple bobbing. Float an apple in a bowl of water and get your kids to try to bite it without using their hands. If you don't mind mess you can repeat the game with a chocolate or grape in a bowl of flour!

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hit the park and get active. Borrow the nearest friendly dog and go for a walk, or set up an obstacle course in the garden with buckets, chairs, tables, gardens rakes…anything goes really!

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the holidays are the perfect time to clear out old toys or games and replace them with new finds from the charity shop or swap with friends.

Take the chance to reintroduce some traditional board games and toys into the mix.

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encourage your kids to dig a vegetable patch of their own in your garden. If you don’t have any outside space, make a mini garden by filling a plant tray with earth and arranging small sprigs of leaves, daisies and grass over the soil. Try small pebbles for paths and foil for a pond.

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Switch of all electricity in the house, light a few candles, read stories, play music, Play hide and seek, cuddle up ...

When you’ve run out of ideas, invite your children’s friends over to play. It is often easier to have playmates around to entertain each other. It also means they will get invited back, giving you a much-needed break!

Go to

Wetlands Centre,

4. Don’t interfere If you have more than one child and they are playing nicely together let them get on with it.

Children need clear space: being bored leads to creativity, believe it!!

Easter Fun at UPBEAT, a unique holiday activity in town.

the ducklings are hatching!

One of many Easter holiday listings, view it online.

020 8409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk

07816 901396 www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk

5. Give them some jobs to do for pocket money Children like to earn their own money and to get a bit of responsibility – they will often jump at the chance to do a chore that you have been putting off for ages.

6. Give them a treat Take them on a trip to a theme park, swimming pool or cinema as a special treat. Make full use of local resources to find out what’s going on in your area - there are always free activities and events going on during school holidays.

Stagecoach Battersea Circus skills and musical theatre thrills 020 8946 2986 battersea@stagecoach.co.uk

7. Plan time for yourself!

Swap babysitting, arrange playmates, invest in a crèche, a children’s course (see our online Listing) …. look after number One, you must!

Useful websites www.rspb.org.uk/youth/makeanddo/index.asp www.allfreecrafts.com www.familyfun.go.com/ www.golondon.about.com/od/aprilannualevents/tp/eastertop10.htm www.kidsturncentral.com/links/esitelinks.htm www.timeout.com/london and the most useful of all ….

www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/holidayactivities (local workshops, camps, sports, art&craft, theatres, language courses, events, Easter egg hunts etc)

allsorts drama

Great golfing fun this Easter!

Local Wandsworth golf course.

020 8871 2468 www.clgc.co.uk

March 2011

Kiddicamps, Kiddikicks, Kiddisports;

Easter Holiday workshops in Kensington and Putney 020 8969 3249 or 020 876 7529 allsortsdrama.com

camps, football and multi-sports training from 18m to 8.

020 7937 7965 kiddikicks.co.uk

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Easter holiday activities The Animal Man Show at Eddie Catz!

One of many activities happening there.

0845 2011268 www.eddiecatz.com

Perform’s Wind in the Willows Holiday course coming up this Easter.

Cookie Crumbles

0845 400 1278 perform.org.uk

Cooking fun with 8876 9912 cookiecrumbles.co.uk

See full activities listings on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/ holidayactivities

Glitterbug Easter art and craft workshops

Our complete Easter Activity Listing is online:

07951 724 045 glitterbugfun.co.uk

Go to

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk /holidayactivities Tin Pan Annie

• All the companies shown on this page run Easter activities • There are many, many more online!

• View the second part of this listing online from 18th March.

• Email your activities to editor via Listings@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Music Classes for 0-5 years 020 8670 0644 tinpanannie.co.uk

Recommended FamilyHolidays.com Family holidays recommended by parents.

Arty Party Holiday Workshops 020 8675 7055

Club Tricolore Let us give your children a taste of France for a day or longer!!

020 7924 4649

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Theatrebugs Confidence Through Creativity 020 7350 2995 theatrebugs.co.uk

March 2011

London South West Why you must register on www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk FamiliesSW is one of many Families sites within FamiliesOnline.co.uk.

The good news? You have access to thousands of really useful articles.

The clever bit? It displays your LOCAL contacts at the bottom!

So if you are reading an article on football, your local football clubs will be automatically displayed.

The way to do it? Give us your postcode when Registering, (it is free and fast)

(we promise we will not give your email address to ANY third party)

Go to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk and click REGISTER.

March 2011

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Competitions and give aways!!

For your chance to win one of these fabulous prizes, log on to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/competitions

WIN an annual subscription to AQUILA children’s magazine - worth £40!

Inspire a love of books and learning with AQUILA! Written and presented in an accessible fun style, AQUILA Magazine will boost your children’s general knowledge and inspire their imagination.

It is perfect for bright, inquisitive youngsters of 8 – 13 years. There is no ‘dumbing down’ in AQUILA - it is full of intelligent reading and serious topics with science in every issue. Children love to receive something in the post every month and AQUILA’s arrival through the letterbox is eagerly anticipated! www.aquila.co.uk To enter, go to www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk/competitions Terms and Conditions apply.

Closing date for the competition is 3rd May 2011.

WIN a £50 voucher to spend at the online boutique Monica & Joe! WIN a Classic Rocking Horse from The Wooden Toy Gallery!!

This hand-crafted built-to-last Rocking Horse will bring enjoyment throughout childhood years and will look good in any child’s room and the interior of any home. Enter now! www.woodentoygallery.co.uk To enter, go to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/competitions Terms and Conditions apply.

Closing date for the competition is 4th April 2011.

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Monica & Joe is a newly launched contemporary online boutique, offering an expert edit of some of Europe’s most exciting new collections and designers which include Cacharel, By Malene Birger and Designers Remix. www.monicaandjoe.co.uk To enter, go to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/competitions Terms and Conditions apply.

Closing date for the competition is 4th April 2011.

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www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/whatson for ice rinks, Christmas shows and days out, events, pantomimes etc

March 2011

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Organise Street Party!

A right royal do Let the bells ring out – here is our guide to a fantastically memorable 29th April.

Whether you’re a raging royalist or a resolute republican, the extra bank holiday granted for the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton on 29th April this year provides you with an extra long weekend and a perfect opportunity to gather people together, to get to know your neighbours and to celebrate the day in your community. You could hire a hall, arrange a picnic in a public space or you could do what the British do best and organise a street party.

Street parties for Royal Weddings are a great British tradition. They are a chance to get together with your neighbours, stoke up the community spirit and enjoy a good party. And now, with the Royal Wedding imminent and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee taking place next year, many councils have acted to change their regulations, stripping away the red tape and making organising a street party or fete much easier. Communities Secretary Eric Pickles is leading this change to minimise red tape, and our local councils seem to be following his lead. In Hammersmith and Fulham the council have done away with the previously complicated paperwork and licences needed, and now residents only need to fill in a simple online form. “2011 is set to be the year street parties are revived and we start talking and celebrating with our neighbours again,” says Councillor Harry Phibbs, H&F Council's cabinet member for community engagement. “With the royal wedding and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee coming up, this stripping away of bureaucracy has happened just in time and I look forward to seeing the bunting out and the parties in full flow.”

If you are organising a street party the approval process through your local authority should be minimal, as long as you are organising a private event for residents and neighbours as opposed to one open to the public at large. No licence is necessary if music is incidental and there is no selling involved. If you do want to have a cash bar or live band or intend to charge money for your event, you will need a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) which will allow you to carry out licensable activities for a limited period for a cost of £21.

Also, if you plan to close the street to traffic, you may have to act quickly – some local councils require an application a minimum of 8 weeks before the big day. However, a temporary traffic order needed to close the road is usually free and residents don't even need to hire cones – you can block off the road using other means. Of course, councils vary in what arrangements they require, so don’t forget to consult them, and if you can’t close the road properly, think instead about using the pavement, parking bays, driveways and front gardens - anywhere you can get people together in a 'Street Meet'. You could even have it in the local park or on a playing field.

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Francesca O’Keeffe m: 07880 500176 francescaokeeffe@ personallysorted.co.uk

March 2011

Plan it

Get creative

So where should you start? Here is our guide to getting the party in full swing:

Every party scene needs to look right so get out the fairy lights and buy or make bunting to festoon the space. You can buy or hire bunting at www.isca-flags.co.uk, www.beautifulbunting.co.uk, www.portfolio-display.co.uk/html/bunting.htm or www.cottonbunting.co.uk. Or get creative and make your own - cut out triangles and other shapes from medium-weight fabric or plastic, then sew or tie the shapes onto tape or thin rope.

Experiment by adding pictures or words, paint, sequins and buttons. Bunting is best hung from side to side across the road, between the upstairs windows, lampposts and trees. (Mind how you go though, and remember, what goes up must come down!). Added touches could be welcome mats at each end of the street, lampshades on lampposts and drains full of flowers. You could even carpet, turf or sand the street for a cushioned dance floor, and a soft area to sit with a sofa and carpet for toddlers is a good idea. Check out www.thebiglunch.com for more creative ideas, and local party suppliers for balloons and table wear: www.circuscircus.co.uk, www.nonstopparty.co.uk, www.partysuperstores.co.uk.

•

Establish that enough people are keen to make a party – even just two or three households can be ample for a jolly good time!

•

Set up a Facebook page and organise a couple of meetings in the lead up (ideally in the street, as it is more welcoming!). It pays to be organised; prepare an agenda, take notes, delegate and keep everyone (of all ages and of all different tastes) involved. Inviting people face to face is a must to get people involved.

You need to send round paper invitations too this may be needed to show your council that you have 'consulted' everyone. Some people, especially older ones, can feel wary or vulnerable and so a little effort may be needed to encourage them to join in.

•

Areas to cover will be: any necessary notifications (the council, other local households), food and drink (caterers or provided by the group), entertainment (music, games or cabaret), decorations, tables and chairs and last but not least, how to show consideration for those in the vicinity who are not taking part. Work to everyone’s strengths and be flexible and open to ideas.

•

On the day, remind people to move their cars.

Get the bunting up early to get people going, along with the road barriers. And don't forget to clear up and move the barriers at the agreed time.

•

Make sure that the music, if you are having it, is not too loud, too long, or too late!

•

Having a follow-up after the event can really make the most of it. Post photos online (with permissions), keep your Facebook page updated and maybe even put together a souvenir newsletter. You can share your event with Streets Alive on their website too.

•

Set a date for next year and begin planning for an even better event in 2012!

Think about your food for the day. Often the best way to do it is for everyone to bring a dish to share. You can lay them out on a table with labels e.g. ‘Brownies from number 12 - with nuts in’.

There are some delicious recipes for street parties on The Big Lunch website, from iced strawberry tea, to raspberry and almond slices and Easy Peasy chicken curry. And don’t forget the cakes!

Get some activities going – have a swap table, a Bring and Buy or an auction. Get people up onto their feet with a tug of war or skittles, or get creative by doing chalk drawings on the pavements. Finally, get competitive with a cake competition or Best Decorated House.

Too late for the wedding?

If a street party is what you have set your heart on but you’ve left it too late to make April 29th, fear not. Why not organise a summer street party?

The Big Lunch is encouraging us all to hold an event on Sunday 5th June to celebrate a one day get-together with your neighbours. There are also plans for a weekend of celebration on June 10th to 12th 2011 to mark the 90th anniversary of the Royal British Legion. Suggestions for local events marking the Great Poppy Party weekend include street parties and barbecues. Or save it for next year and celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee on the first weekend of June 2012.

To find out everything you could possibly want to know about planning a street party go to www.streetparty.org.uk And why not sign up to The Big Lunch newsletter at www.thebiglunch.com Their site is packed with advice and inspiration for food, decorations, music and entertainment. For the latest news on the Royal Wedding, go to www.princeofwales.gov.uk.

So get out there, and have a ball!

Mayall Road, Big Lunch Street Party July 2009 all pictures by Pete Gibbons

HAPKIDO SELF DEFENCE Kicks for Kids & Self-defence for children ages 5 and upwards Ki breathing, Kicks, punches, throws, joint-locks, tumbles, jumps and breakfalls.

NEW: Classes for Parents and Adults and self-defence classes for Women Hapkido teaches: •Respect •Fitness •Discipline •Confidence •Control & sensitivity •Inner calm & peace •Defence •Strength & agility Instructor: Jon Bailie, 2nd Dan Qualified Hapkido Instructor and fully insured Classes available @ Balham Leisure Centre SW17, St Luke's Community Hall SW12, Broomwood Hall SW11, The Contact Centre SW4 and other venues

For all enquiries/bookings, please call on

07932 667 336 Private tuition/home visits also available

www.semokwan-hapkido.co.uk

March 2011

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21

Countdown to 2012 Lesley Bishop, editor of Families East, takes you for a visit around the emerging Olympic site as it takes shape in the heart of East London.

Recently I joined a handful of pupils from a local School in Ilford for a chance to tour around the rapidly developing Olympic site. It proved to be an exciting and informative experience for all of us especially after we found out that David Beckham had been on the same bus that morning!

Where is the Olympic site?

What has happened so far?

The Olympic site is located in the Lower Lee Valley and covers 2.5km square. It covers parts of the boroughs of Hackney, Waltham Forest, Tower Hamlets and Newham with the nearest public transport at Pudding Mill Lane.

The Main Stadium is around 90% completed and will seat a total of 80,000 people. A key feature of this is the ‘bowl’ will hold 25,000 seats and will be surrounded by 55,000 demountable seats that can be taken away after the Games, a first in Games design. It is a staggering 53 metres high and has 700 underground rooms for the athletes.

The area has a high water table and the River Lee runs through it, now with 32 bridges throughout the site. Her Majesty The Queen planted the first of 4,000 trees in 2009 that will complement the extensive landscaping planned throughout.

Before the London Olympics the area was primarily used for industry. Since the late 19th century around half of the site has been used for landfill with around 75% of the land having some form of contamination including petrol, oil, tar and heavy metals like arsenic. The soil was so polluted with toxins it had to be cleaned and 1.4 million tonnes of soil was processed allowing 70% of the soil to be re-used. The majority of the area was cleared and cleaned by summer 2008 and 97% of material reclaimed from demolition in the Olympic park can be re-used or recycled.

From the mini-bus tour we gained excellent views of the emerging Main Stadium, Handball Arena, International Broadcast Centre, Basketball Arena, VeloPark and Aquatic Centre.

The Handball Arena will be transformed into a community sports centre after the games. The International Broadcast Centre will accommodate 20,000 journalists and media professionals who will be broadcasting to over 4 billion people worldwide.

The Basketball Arena is the only temporary structure on the park and will be dismantled after the games. That’s the big white building with the big ridges all the way down, which help it “self clean” when it rains.

The VeloPark was a favourite for the children – it’s the wooden building you can see from the A12 that looks like a Pringle! One of the main design features of the VeloPark is that the roof catches rainwater that can be re-used throughout the park. Scheduled to be ready in January 2011,

it is made from Siberian wood that does not expand or contract in the rain. Spectators will be able to watch the athletes from 360 degrees.

The Aquatic Park will act as a gateway to the Olympic Park with two 50m swimming pools and diving pool with pool floor able to be lowered or raised.

We also drove past the Olympic village, which will house around 17,500 athletes. Each flat will have a balcony and each block designed by a different architect. In all there are 2,800 flats in a configuration of 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms. After the games 50% of these flats will be converted for social housing.

We spotted a large circular building in the centre of the site, which we learnt would become a performing arts school after the games, Chobham Academy for 4-18 years. The lucky children who attend this academy will have access to so many facilities.

The excellent transport links to the Olympic park will provide 10 different rail routes to the site, with the new Javelin Train being able to transport passengers to and from Kings Cross in just 8 minutes and Ebbsfleet in Kent in only 13 minutes.

For further information visit: www.london2012.com

Indicative map of the Olympic Park at Games-time

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March 2011

Olympics 2012

Get involved Volunteering Nearly a quarter of a million people have applied to be one of the 70,000 London 2012 volunteer Games Makers. The applications have now closed but there are plenty of other ways to volunteer at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Why not check out the Mayor of London's London Ambassadors or the pre-Games Trailblazer programme? London Mayor Boris Johnson needs 8,000 London Ambassadors to help and advise all the visitors who will travel to London at Games time, providing a personalised, passionate and knowledgeable visitor welcome. And while the majority of volunteers will be needed at Games time, a select number of volunteers, known as Trailblazers, are needed in the run-up to the Games. Eighty-three Trailblazers have already been recruited and the programme will re-open in spring 2011, searching for more Trailblazers. Each Trailblazer will volunteer one day a week, performing a wide range of administrative duties in various departments, from Sport to Communications. If you think you have the commitment, dedication and passion to be a Trailblazer, go to www.london2012.com.

Renting your house If you can’t volunteer, how about taking advantage of the Olympics in London and rent out your home? A practice already enjoyed by many Londoners during the Wimbledon fortnight or the upcoming Royal Wedding, it can be

March 2011

extremely financially rewarding! Independent websites offering this service include www.london2012olympicsrentals.com, www.2012homerentals.com and www.rentduringthegames.com. London 2012 will also run an official 'Homestay' programme where local residents offer accommodation to athletes' families as an alternative to hotel accommodation. Keep an eye on the 2012 website for updates and how to get involved. Alternatively, swap your home with someone else and get away from it all during the games! Many members of home-swap sites have been getting enquiries regarding Summer 2012 already. Take a look at www.guardianhomeexchange.co.uk, www.homeexchange.com or www.homelink.org.uk.

Tickets Don’t forget to sign up for tickets for the games too - visit www.tickets.london2012.com and register your interest. Applications for London 2012 Olympic Games tickets will open on Tuesday 15 March 2011 and close at 11.59pm on Tuesday 26 April 2011, with tickets available at a wide range of prices starting at £20. Paralympic Games ticket applications will open on 9 September 2011.

The website www.london2012.com is packed with information on the games, from venues to transport and everything in between. You can also shop for a great range of clothing, jewellery and collectables.

Check it out now!

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Childcare feature

The cost of paid work Oh dear, with cuts to the working tax credit, an end to the £250 child trust fund and the cutting of child benefit from 2013 for some families, working when your children are young just got more expensive…

Joanna Moorhead reports

Picture courtesy of Tom Reynolds

We’re all in this together – we’ve all heard that, many times, from our politicians about our country’s financial problems.

But from April 2011, if you’re a working parent you could be forgiven for thinking you were maybe taking more than your fair share of the hit.

Why so? Well, that’s when cuts to state-funded help with childcare announced in last year’s comprehensive spending review start to kick in: and what they’ll mean is a cut in income of up to £1,300 a year to some families in London, according to the Resolution Foundation.

Chancellor George Osborne announced last year that the percentage of childcare costs recoverable through the working tax credit system would be reduced from 80% to 70% this month. But, says the Resolution Foundation, many families are still unaware of the changes – and, says its chief executive Gavin Kelly, those on middle-to-low incomes are the ones likely to find the losses hardest to bear.

“Many parents find support with childcare costs absolutely essential to staying in work, and the big worry is that some will now find that work doesn’t pay,” he says. And he points out that, coming after recent rises in travel costs, the cuts come at a time when families are feeling the pinch very hard indeed.

“There is no doubt the cuts will make going back to work less financially viable for some mothers, but in my experience the vast majority are still keen to return. At Gina’s Nannies we always try to give good, honest advice about childcare options” says Emma McCarthy, owner of Gina’s Nannies

After all, for working parents childcare cuts don’t just represent a loss of income: they force parents to think about whether working when their children are young is actually worth the effort at all. Given that the government is committed to helping parents to work if they want to, that doesn’t make much sense.

To be totally fair about it, of course, a two-parent family should view the costs of childcare as a proportion of their joint income. But in practice, how it’s seen by most couples is as a proportion of the mother’s wage. And if the proportion of that income spent on travel, lunches and childcare becomes too high, then many mothers start to think: what’s the point of carrying on working?

After all, life is hard enough when you’ve got a small child or small children; if the money you’re bringing in is making a big material difference to your family, then it’s worth it. But when it ceases to do that, you might as well reduce the stress in your own life and increase the amount of time you spend with your child or children, and quit work.

The problem in the UK, as compared with many other countries in Europe, is that childcare costs already eat up a huge proportion of a family’s income – 33%, according to recent figures from the OECD, compared with 4% of a family’s income in Belgium, 11% of a family’s income in France, and even compared with 19% of a family’s income in the US.

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Picture courtesy of Tom Reynolds

Childcare feature

And many campaigners argue that failing to invest in childcare, and so reducing the proportion of a family’s income spent on childcare, is failing the long-term economic future of the country. After all, working mothers are extremely valuable to the economy: they’re paying into their pensions, they’re learning new skills, they’re keeping their confidence up, and even if they only tread water while their children are young, they’re keeping connected with the world of work in a way that will make it much easier to up a gear when their children are at school.

From the government’s point of view, of course, the changes to working tax credit are all part of a cuts package that has to affect everyone in the land. This month’s changes to the childcare element of the credit will save £270m next year, rising to £385m by 2014-15. The policy is one of several deficit reduction measures which will hit families, including an end to the £250 child trust fund for new babies, and the cutting of child benefit from 2013 to families where one parent is a higher-rate taxpayer.

What’s especially unfair is that, if women leave the workplace when their children are tiny, they often find their working choices hugely reduced when they try to return to work three, or five, or even ten years down the line.

And given that we’re being encouraged to anticipate living longer, and working for longer, that makes no sense.

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March 2011

The cost of childcare: what mums say I’ve got two children aged two and three, and to be honest I reckon it costs me to work. Around 70% of my income goes on childcare, and the rest is eaten up in travel, lunches and clothes to wear for work. I keep telling myself that it’s a long-term investment in my capacity to work when the children are older and at full-time school, but there are days when that rings very hollow indeed. The truth is that it’s a real slog, working so hard when you’ve got small children...somewhere in your mind you know they’re happiest when they’re with you, and you know you’re happiest when you’re with them, and if you’re not even making money out of it, there comes a point when you think: why bother. (Julie, 37, works in marketing)

I’ve worked out that unless I can earn at least £35,000 a year, it’s simply not worth going back – so, for the moment, I’ve decided to stay at home. What worries me is how I’ll get back into the job market – I feel that while I’m at home I’m not getting the kind of experience employers are interested in, and that my confidence will be much-diminished by the time I’m ready to put in job applications again. Like many working parents I’d rather work part-time than full-time, but working part-time means an even lower salary, and you still have to get yourself into the office, buy lunches and so on, and that costs a huge amount. What I need is a system under which my children could get good, affordable childcare so that I could at least keep my toe in the water with my job, for the long-term.

(Suzy, 34, former curator)

Nannies, Maternity Nurses, Housekeepers and Mother’s Helps

All our applicants are personally interviewed and their references checked

Permanent and Temporary Residential, Daily, Full and Part-Time Evening Babysitting Register

Tel: 020 8947 4666 info@wimbledonnannies.co.uk www.wimbledonnannies.com 184 Copse Hill, SW20 0SP Fax: 020 8947 0405 bestbear.co.uk accredited

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Childcare feature Childcare you can trust

Wellington Nannies Call 020 7183 4374 wellingtonnannies.co.uk 1 Newburgh Street / W1F 7RB

from pg25

– Nannies – Mother’s Helps – Maternity

However, there are solutions out there, or at least ways to ease the problem. What affects working parents has a knock-on effect on child care providers and many nanny agencies are noticing the cuts. “We are receiving many more requests for part-time nannies,” says one agency owner. “A fulltime nanny costs around £35,000 a year once you factor in their tax and NI, so some mums are now finding it more cost effective to switch to part-time work and only have a nanny three days a week.”

Many agencies are tackling this dip in profits head on, boosting business by offering discounts or promotions, or adapting to parents’ needs. Five years ago Gwendolen House Nursery School was set up in Putney. A year later childcare agency Gwendolen House Childcare followed, specifically to support and encourage working mothers. At Gwendolen House Childcare the team of consultants are made up of local SW London working mothers who understand the pros and cons of working in this current economic climate, so can they help parents find exactly what they need for their childcare solution.

Some agencies offer more flexible, dip in-dip out childcare too. “Given the current economy, many parents do not want the expense or burden of full time childcare,” says Georgie, of the babysitting and childcare agency Like Minders, “so we specialise in offering an ad hoc service as and when parents really need it. We are able to provide parents with that flexibility of choice, where they can pick and choose when they need childcare and dip in and out as and when required, whether it is babysitting, regular help on a Tuesday afternoon, or a month with a full time nanny. It’s the benefits of a nanny without any long term commitment.” Like Minders have noticed a huge increase in enquiries and memberships over the last year, confirming that they are offering something that many parents want now.

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Picture courtesy of ‘Likeminders’ baby sitting agency

This spring let Best Bear take the fear and hassle out of finding your childcare solution. Operating nationwide, www.bestbear.co.uk can help you find a nanny, au pair, baby sitter or even a nursery safely – they have thoroughly vetted all of the nanny agencies on their site so you know you can relax when contacting them. Alternatively, find a nanny directly by advertising for childcare quickly and easily on Best Bear’s website – browse CVs from hundreds of childcarers looking for work, and then use the site’s Reference Checking Service for complete peace of mind. This spring, Best Bear are offering a 10% discount to Families readers on their reference checking service. (normally £60 for 3 references checked) Let Best Bear do the running around chasing references, providing you with peace of mind and reassurance that you are employing the right person for your children. Simply call 08707 201277 to speak to an advisor and quote ‘Families’ to ensure your discount. Go to www.bestbear.co.uk or email info@bestbear.co.uk for all of your childcare needs.

Websites such as www.greatcare.co.uk are becoming more popular too, where parents can find nannies online.

At the end of the day many mothers will continue to work, despite the cuts.

As a gesture towards helping working mothers Gwendolen House Childcare would like to offer a 10% discount on their Agency Fees if you register with them at www.ghchildcare.com before the end of April 2011.

More information • Daycare Trust http://www.daycaretrust.org.uk/ • Working Families http://www.workingfamilies.org.uk/ • Childcare tax credits: http://www.direct.gov.uk/

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Book reviews

Reviewed by Maggie O’Brien

Baby’s Here! Who Does What?

By Duncan Fisher Published by GS Press ISBN 978-1-905550-05-0 RRP £8.99 (All the profits from this book go to fund Family Info Ltd) Duncan Fisher suggests challenging tradition, taking a step back and looking at ways to accommodate both parents. Sharing care, something I think every new parent should look at. He is humorous and points out the unrealistic ideas prospective parents have, the rut that can so easily develop, and the valid point: “If we haven’t been hands-on with the little ones, we are rarely in a good place when it comes to dealing with stroppy teenagers”. So true.

He looks at the laws around paid leave and how both parents can work and it’s all laid out in short burst chapters with excellent summing up.

Families Rating: 5 out of 6

Cyberbullying

By Vanessa Rodgers Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers ISBN: 978-1-84905-105-7 RRP £9.99 This is an informative book that once dipped into makes it feel like an essential read.

Described as a valuable resource particularly to people working with children and teens, it soon becomes apparent that it would be useful for all parents. It is packed with practical exercises that explore different hypothetical scenarios; how to deal with all kinds of cyberbullying and how to deal with being the bully. It is punchy and inventive helping young people face this issue without being alarmist.

I found some of the cyberbullying examples mirror recent cases in the press and this makes it very real.

Families Rating: 4 out of 6

Emotional Healing For The Inner Child (A Survivor’s Guide To The journey Of Life)

By Anne Cummings Published by The Book Guild Ltd ISBN 978-1-84624-285-4 RRP £17.99 Is the way you react to your children because of your own childhood and upbringing? Do you feel inhibited by some things, possibly associating it unknowingly, with something that happened to you? Have you got the right work/life balance?

Anne Cummings takes us through various stages of our lives likening it to a ferry crossing, looking carefully at the beginning and the various calms and turbulences along the way. Initially sceptical about reading her book, it intrigued me. I felt like I was being counselled as I read it, even though at times, I felt slightly overwhelmed by some of her references to different psychology studies.

Families Rating: 6 out of 6

Reviewed by Rosie Elphinstone

Maths For Mums And Dads

By Rob Eastaway and Mike Askew Published by Square Peg ISBN 978-0-224-08635-6 RRP £10.99

Many adults claim that they are ‘hopeless’ at maths, convincing themselves they are in no position either to understand or help their children with maths homework. This book sets out to challenge that premise and to clarify mathematical principles. It suggests that learning should be fun but that anything worth learning requires effort. Problems are there to be solved – not getting it right first time does not translate into ‘incompetence’.

Whether it removes the terror for the maths phobic, I am not sure, but I have greatly enjoyed this book and have found it enlightening, challenging, instructive and fun, and would highly recommend it to any parent wanting to increase their knowledge and confidence in maths.

Families Rating: 5 out of 6

Stress-Free Parenting in 12 Steps

By Christiane Kutik Published by Floris Books ISBN 978-086315-762-2 RRP £7.99 Modern day parenting, with all the pressures of 21st century life, is undoubtedly stressful and I value any book that successfully advises how to avoid the pitfalls that exacerbate the stress levels.

This book does so very well, largely because it draws on sound, traditional values with clear roles, rules and respect. Each chapter starts with a familiar challenging scenario; the author then demonstrates how deftly to handle these potentially stressful situations, remembering that the parent should always remain in control. I found this book deeply insightful and the advice, in its simplicity, so helpful and achievable, and I would highly recommend it.

Families Rating: 5 out of 6

London South West Register on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk The good news? You have access to thousands of really useful articles.

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Book reviews Reviewed by Emilie Amos

Split in Two

By Karen Buscemi Published by A & C Black ISBN 978-4081-2815-1 RRP £5.99

The Second Baby Survival Guide

By Naia Edwards Published by Rodale ISBN 978-1-905744-67-1 RRP £10.99

The text has a compassionate tone, and sprinkled throughout are answers to questions that readers might have, as well as snippets of advice from teenagers who have found what works best for them.

Clear and informative, this guide provides helpful advice for parents considering — or already on their way to — having more than one child.

Different temperaments, different routines, and different sleep patterns all come to mind during the first few months following my second child’s birth. I had naively thought that it would be easy with a second child as I knew what to expect, and that the new baby would magically slot in. This book suggests many coping mechanisms, which include planning a sibling strategy; understanding rivalry issues; managing sleep with two; and looking after two or more children while sustaining your marriage.

Families Rating: 4 out of 6

Families Rating: 4 out of 6

This book, aimed at the teen market, helps the reader to learn how to split their time between their separated/divorced parents’ two homes.

Strategies are given as to how to negotiate with their parents; how to become more organised; how to save money; and how to become an expert packer. It gives tips on how to reclaim a sense of self, gain more independence and generally feel less confused.

Babynomics: Money Saving Tips for Smart Parents

By Madeline Thomas Published by White Ladder Press ISBN 978-1-90541-065-1 RRP £9.99 If you are shocked by the terrifying fact that it costs up to £200,000 to raise each child until the age of 18, then this book is definitely for you. It illustrates how you can cut the alarming cost of bringing up children so you can give them the quality of life you want.

Great money-saving tips are given, including how to feed a family of four for under £50 a week and how to organise a memorable birthday party for under £30.

Invaluable advice is also given on financial topics ranging from statutory maternity pay to making a will.

Families Rating: 5 out of 6 For more book reviews by real parents go to www.familiesonline.co.uk/reviews

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TUMBLE TOTS At Tumble Tots we endeavour to provide the opportunities, through a challenging environment of active physical play, for children to explore fully and develop their physical capability, especially their motor skills of balance, agility and co-ordination, whilst at the same time stimulating the imagination and having fun. Classes also include music, songs and rhymes, and are split into different age groups starting at six months up to 7 years.

Venues: Contact: Times: Ages:

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Clapham, Dulwich, Blackheath & Battersea.

Julia Forrest.

Tel: 020 8464 4433 julia.forrest1@ntlworld.com Various—phone for details in your area.

6 months to 5 years.

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

DIARY DATES EVENTS FOR CHILDREN SMILEY TIME NURSERY RHYMES & STORY TIME The Bowler, 20 Bellevue Road Wandsworth Common, London SW17 07540 990133 www.smileytime.co.uk Mondays & Thursdays 10am. £5 per child (sibling discount £2), drop-in sessions. Babies to under 5s.

Studio 106 Art Gallery, 106 Dawes Road, Fulham SW6 7EG FASHION, TEXTILES & SCREEN-PRINTING for 9-13yrs.

Fridays 4.40pm-6.30pm. £20. Introducing basic ideas about textural processes, collage techniques and garment construction, this course provides the opportunity to develop skills relevant to art, fashion and design.

GRAPHICS, DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY AND SCREEN-PRINTING for 9-13yrs.

Studio 106 Art Gallery, 106 Dawes Road, Fulham SW6 7EG Tuesdays 4.30pm-6.30pm. £20.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY FOR ADULTS Studio 106 Art Gallery, 106 Dawes Road, Fulham SW6 7EG Every Tuesday until 22 Mar. 7pm. £20 A unique chance to get a solid and essential introduction to photography that will then move into a series of photographic lessons which cover a range of skills and techniques. Bring a friend and get two workshops free.

CREATIVE TEXTILE DESIGN FOR ADULTS Studio 106 Art Gallery, 106 Dawes Road, Fulham SW6 7EG March-June £20. Introducing a variety of basic print techniques and textural processes, this hands-on workshop offers the chance to create pieces of textile work for fineart, fashion and interiors. Bring a friend and get two workshops free.

BUSINESS MUMS MENTORING EVENT As part of BusinessMums Mentoring Month and in celebration of 100 years of International Women’s Day, MOTIVATING MUM will hold a speed mentoring event on Tuesday the 8th March offering 16 lucky Businessmums the opportunity to gain invaluable support and advice from 8 established and successful business women of different fields – all at one event. Each Businessmum will get 8 mns with each mentor and can put to them any business challenge they are currently facing. www.motivatingmum.co.uk/events-andworkshops/current-events or www.motivatingmum.co.uk/ mentoring-mum/mummy-mentoring-mum

THINGS TO DO EN FAMILLE VENN STREET MARKET Saturdays 10am-5pm: Fresh food Market. Sundays 12pm5pm: Food, garden pants &crafts.

Sat 26 & Sun 27 Mar (last weekend of every month) www.vennstreetmarket.co.uk Venn Street Market is going WEEKLY. More stalls will be introduced – in particular more locally sourced produce such as fruit, veg, meat and diary to make an excellent weekly shopping destination.

BUGGYFIT CLASSES IN SOUTH WIMBLEDON Tuesdays 10am-11am Morden Hall Park Thursdays 10am-11am John Innes Park An effective and safe post natal workout with a qualified post natal instructor, a mix of cardio-vascular and strength training, improves posture and strengthens core muscles, great for fat burning, motivation to exercise, group support for new mums dad's come free. £7. Call Gayle 07985 280109 THE OXFORD AND CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY BOAT RACE 26 Mar. www.theboatrace.org Go and join the fun on the banks of the Thames between Mortlake and Putney and cheer on the rowers.

EVENTS FOR ADULTS THE IDEAL HOME SHOW 11-17 Mar. Earl’s Court, London 0844 415 4144 www.idealhomeshow.co.uk Britain’s best love consumer home event! £11 to £18.

Thurs 17th March 10-12:30pm (Clapham). PARENT PRACTICE WORKSHOPS: ‘Getting away from the Naughty Step – more effective forms of discipline.’ All £45pp, £75 per couple or £80 for two friends booking together. Check website or call for details. 68 Thurleigh Road, SW12 8UD. 8673 3444 www.theparentpractice.com RHS LONDON ORCHID SHOW & RHS BOTANICAL ART SHOW 19-20 Mar. RHS Horticultural Halls, Westminster, London.

10am-5pm www.rhs.org.uk/flowershows See rare and exotic orchids from across the globe and view magnificent botanical art from the RHS archives.

COUNTRY LIVING SPRING FAIR 23-27 Mar. Business Design Centre, London 0844 848 0152 www.countrylivingfair.com/spring Shop for unique gifts and treats and enjoy a great day out! £16

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School in Streatham Hill, London SW16. All welcome.

Drop-in. £12.

With Anja Brierley Lange A qualified Ayurvedic Practioner and Yoga teacher.

R.E.D.I Training 1 U2 Cooper House, 2 Michael Road, London SW6 2AD 020 7348 7117 www.redi-training.co.uk 29 Mar. Emergency Care 23 Mar. Accident and Illness All courses in Fulham on Tue evenings & Wed mornings.

PARENTING PROGRAMME 10 WEEK Family Links Nurturing Programme for parents with children any age.

Starting May 5th in Battersea and Wandsworth.

Day and evening session available. Kathryn 07779 5959 76 or kathrynarielshearing@gmail.com, Anastasia 07908 883 307 or find “courses” at www.infinityparentcoaching.com

DRAMA YOUNG VIC THEATRE 66, The Cut, London SE1 8LZ 020 7922 2922 www.youngvic.org To 12 Mar. AND THE RAIN FALLS DOWN (The Maria) YUMMY MUMMY WEEK – 26 March-3 April.

“At home” and “working Mums” between the age of 25 and 45 can organise some great “get together” events, have a brilliant time and raise money to help families where a child has cancer. There are lots of ways you can get involved – from pamper nights and coffee mornings to dinner parties and ‘dress-pink’ days at work – and all the money raised will help CLIC Sargent continue to provide clinical, practical and emotional support for children and young people with cancer, and their families.

Get involved is easy, just visit www.yummymummy.org.uk to register for a FREE fundraising pack.

COURSES WITH ANNABEL HARGRAVE YogaBirth Teacher & Doula and Ratna Vohora – Cranial Osteopath.

07817931571 or hargrave.family@ blueyounder.co.uk YOGA FOR PREGNANCY Wednesday evenings 7.15pm.

New YogaBirth Class at Jitterbugs Café, Wimbledon SW19.

HYPNOBREATHING FOR COUPLES Friday evenings 7pm at the Vitality Centre, Southfields SW18. Exploring yoga, relaxation, massage and hypnobreathing techniques for birth preparation and labour.

YOGA CLASS A safe way of working using postures to undo tension and feel the connection with the breath and the spine.

FIRST AID COURSES With Emma Hammett, Qualified Nurse, First Aid Trainer and local Mum. HSE and Qualsafe approved. Over 20 years of healthcare and teaching experience 020 8675 4036 emma@firstaidforlife.org.uk or www.firstaidforlife.org.uk EARLY YEARS FIRST AID COURSES Fri 11, Sat 26 Mar, Fri 1 and Thu 7 Apr. Ideal for Nannies and au pair too!

SHORT EMERGENCY FIRST AID COURSE Sat 12, Thu 17 Mar, Thu 31 Mar and Wed 11 May. Covering CPR, recovery position and injuries in adults, babies and children.

PREGNANCY BLISS –YOGA AND MASSAGE 07963 820 702 www.yogaembodied.com Tuesdays and Thursdays 6.30pm-7.40pm at the Capoira

Imagine a world where every drop of water has a life of its own. Imagine a place where rainbows form from umbrellas, where fountains spout from plugholes, and where eventually the rain really does fall down. The show is a visually stunning celebration of the watery things of the world. £8/£10. 3-4yrs.

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com MAIN THEATRE To 9 Apr. THE MACHINE GUNNERS, based on the novel by Robert Westall. It’s 1940, and Britain is at war.

Young Chas McGill has the second best collection of war souvenirs in town but desperately wants it to be the best.

One day, he stumbles across a shot-down German bomber and snatches the ultimate souvenir to add to his collection: a machine gun.

A moving and touching story. £6/£12. 9-13 yrs.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1QG 0844 871 7646 www.ambassadortickets.com/wimbledon Fri 11 & Sat 12 Mar 7.30pm.

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

March 2011

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

TROCADERO DE MONTE CARLO A combination of pure comedy, extraordinary technical prowess and genuine love of ballet has made them a global phenomenon since they formed in New York in 1974. £13 to £30.

Tue 15-Sat 26 Mar. HAIRSPRAY The musical with everything –the ultimate feel-good show which has played to sold houses in London, on Broadway and theatres around the globe. £16.50 to £46.50.

Fri 1 Apr 7.30pm. RICHARD ALSTON DANCE COMPANY Celebrated and musically-driven contemporary dance. £13.50 to £22.50.

Tue 5-Sat 9 Apr. SWAN LAKE ON ICE, with “The Imperial Ice Stars”. With Tchaikovsky’s glorious music, exhilarating new choreography and dazzling new costumes, this innovative portrayal of the classic love story will take your breath away. £14 to £35.

Tue 19-Sat 23 Apr. JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT Sparkling family musical with unforgettable songs. £13 to £34.

RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7615 www.ambassadortickets.com Mon 7-Sat 12 Mar. R.C SHERRIFF’s Classic First World War Drama JOURNEY’S END Based on the author’s own experience of the Front and life in the trenches, it celebrates humour and courage in the face of certain tragedy. A must-see of British theatre. £13 to £27.

Mon 14-Sat 19 Mar. THE RELUCTANT DEBUTANTE Bursting with witty one liners and sparkling dialogue in the tradition of Noël Coward, this affectionate caricature of 1950’s British society brings the glamour and charm of the debutante scene gloriously to life. £14 to £32.

Tue 5 – Sat 9 Apr. GREAT EXPECTATIONS by Charles Dickens re-imagined in nineteenth-century India. A stunning new version, painted in vivid colours across a vast landscape of characters and locations. £15 to £28.

What’s on

fun and laughter with added excitement as Pretty Polly walks the tightrope.

26/27 Mar, 2/3 Apr, 9 to 25 Apr. BRER RABBIT AND THE TAR BABY 3pm. Carved marionettes, dramatic lighting and effects, specially composed music and story telling by well known stage and TV star Rudolph Walker will enchant and delight all ages.

THE LYRIC HAMMERSMITH THEATRE Lyric Square, King Street, London W6 0OL 0871 22 117 20 www.lyric.co.uk Saturdays shows 11am/1pm £6/£8, then “MESSY PLAY” arts and crafts activities £5, 12pm & 2pm. £9 for Show and Messy Play Workshop. Add Messy Play to your family ticket for just £3 extra per child. Family ticket £25.

SATURDAY SHOWS & FAMILY SUNDAYS Sat 12 Mar. LITTLE RED ROBIN HOOD Why is Robin Hood wearing girl’s clothes? Is it the Sheriff of Nottingham or the big bad wolf? A merry mix up in the forest when two classic tales come together. 4-7yrs.

Sat 19 Mar. VIDEK’S SHIRT 10.30am, 12 pm, 1.30pm, 3pm. Learn how sheep’s wool is made into a lovely warm shirt with Videk and his animal friends in this multi-sensory show exploring the countryside. Messy Play 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm. 25yrs.

Sat 26 Mar. SMALL WORLDS 10.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm & 3pm. Step inside a magical tent and into the miniature worlds of a bug, a goose, a fox, a cat and a little girl. Brought to life with beautiful puppets, animated film and wonderful visual effects.

Messy Play 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm.

Sun 27 Mar. Family Sunday shows 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm: Kids activities all day and relaxing areas for grown-ups.

TARA STUDIO 356 Garratt Lane, London SW18 4ES 020 8333 4457 www.tara-arts.com Tue 22-Sat 26 Mar. DRUM 10.30am & 1.30pm. Listen to the gentle rhythm of the big bass drum, watch the shadows dancing on the surface of the small drums. A multi- sensory show for babies and toddlers and their adult companions. £6.50/£7.50. 6 mths 2 yrs. Advance booking strongly advised.

THE COLOUR HOUSE THEATRE Merton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way, SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Sat & Sun 2pm and 4pm. £7/£9. Parties £6.

To Sun 17 Apr. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST A great family show with plenty of fun and excitement!

Half moon The Fabulous Butterfly

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Little Venice, Blomfield Road, London W9 2PF 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com £8.50/£10.

12/13 & 19/20 Mar. JOEY’S CIRCUS COME TO TOWN 3pm. Once again Punch comes to the rescue. With the help of Dog Toby, he saves Clown Joey’s circus from being shut down by the Beadle. Pretty Polly is the star. The show provides a lot of

43 White Horse Road, London E1 0ND 020 7709 8900 www.halfmoon.org.uk Tickets £6.

Wed 9 Mar- Sat 19 Mar ( except 13 Mar) PLUM AND PICKLE Explores growing up at a time when friendships are made and the world around is discovered. Fusing dance and an original soundtrack, it’s an innovative show which will make you see shapes in a new way! 2-5 yrs.

Thu 24 Mar. ODYSSEY 4.30pm & 7pm. The classic Greek Myth is reinvented by theatre Ad Infinitum, whose poignant storytelling and highly physical performance bring Homer’s breathtaking adventure to life. 14 yrs+.

Sat 26 Mar. THE FABULOUS FLUTTERBYS 11am & 2pm. Using recycled materials, Little Angel theatre bring this joyous puppetry show to the stage, accompanied by live music, created by jazz legend Barb Jungr. 3-6yrs.

Sat 2 Apr. FLYAWAY KATIE 11am & 2pm. This lovely show is about the power of imagination and features an original soundtrack. There will be an opportunity to meet the puppets after the show. 2-6yrs.

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

Cont. pg 34

March 2011

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from page 33

What’s on UNICORN THEATRE

Battersea Zoo Belgian hare

147 Tooley Street, Southwark, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com 22-27 Mar. THE BIRTHDAY OF THE INFANTA, from the story by Oscar Wilde. Adults and young people alike are invited by the Infanta, the Spanish Princess, to her twelfth birthday party. This is the only day of the year she is allowed to play with other children, but mixing with those not of her own rank comes at a price. £9 /£11, family £32. 9yrs+.

29-30 Mar. THE DAY THE WATERS CAME The story of a teenage girl facing the shattering impact of Hurricane Katrina. £9/£11, family £32.

2 Apr - 8 May. THE THREE MUSKETEERS. With a contemporary twist to Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel, the show is full of adventure, intrigue, romance and swordfights. £8 to £12, family £34/£54.

BFI SOUTHBANK THE DISNEY 50 AT THE BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE 020 7928 3232 www.bfi.org.uk/southbank £6.75/£9.50, family £20.

Some of the world’s most celebrated family films of all time on the big screen throughout 2011 Thu 10 Mar. 18h30. THE THREE CABALLEROS. USA 1945.

Mon 7 Mar 6.30pm & Sat 12 Mar 1pm. MAKE MINE MUSIC. USA 1946 Sat 19 Mar 1.30pm & Tue 22 Mar 6.20pm. FUN AND FANCY FREE. USA 1947 Sat 26 Mar 1.30pm & Tue 29 Mar 6.20pm. MELODY TIME. USA 1948 FILM FUNDAY Sun 20 Mar. A TURTLE’S TALE: SAMMY’S ADVENTURES 1.30pm. (Belgium 2010) the epic journey of Sammy, spanning 50 years from birth in 1959 to maturity.

This 3D animation is a corning of age story that carries serious ecological overtones highlighting man’s destruction of the ocean.

FUNDAY WORKSHOP Sun 20 Mar 11.30am. Foyer. Create your own Turtle Tale then bring it to life through this exciting animation workshop. (Free for ticket holders for the Funday preview)

EVENTS BATTERSEA PARK CHILDREN’S ZOO. Battersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate, London SW11 020 7924 5826 www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk Daily from 10am. Usual child entrance fee £6 with activities.

9, 16, 23 & 30 Mar. STORY TIME WEDNESDAYS 11am. Listen to animal story, colour in their picture and

then go out into zoo to meet the real life characters!

Sat 19 Mar. MAD MARCH HARE EARS DAY! Children who visit the zoo today wearing rabbit ears can claim a free poster!

SOMERSET HOUSE Strand, London WC2 1LA 020 78454600, www.somerset.org.uk SATURDAYS FREE FAMILY WORKSHOPS: 2pm3.30pm. Free Family Workshops. Collect tickets from 1pm from the information desk in the Seamen’s Hall on the day. Children 6-12yrs must be accompanied by an adult.

Sat 12 Mar. HATS OFF! Transform the two-dimensional into 3D, and design your own headdresses and hats in the style of those found in some of the portrait masterpieces in The Courtauld Gallery (Courtauld Gallery) Sat 19 Mar. BOOKED AND HOOKED Design your own illustrations for a well-loved fable or song using pop-up storybook techniques (Embankment Galleries) Sat 26 Mar. POSTER CAMPAIGN Create dazzling poster designs to market a product or brand of your own invention (Embankment Galleries)

THE NATIONAL GALLERY Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN 020 7747 2894/2885 www.nationalgallery.or.uk and for family events www.nationalgallery.org.uk/what FAMILY SUNDAYS Fun activities designed especially for families to enjoy and learn together. Free hands-on art workshops at 11am & 2pm every Sunday. Meet in the Education Centre Foyer (orange St entrance). Workshops last 2hrs.

FOR CHILDREN AGED 2 TO 5: MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING 10.30am-11am & 11.30am-12noon every Sunday. Fly away on the magic carpet, which comes to land in front of a different painting each Sunday.

FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN AGED 5 TO 11 DRAWING SUNDAYS: 11am-12.20pm, repeated 2pm3.20pm, alternate Sundays. Young artists explore how National Gallery paintings can be used as inspiration STUDIO SUNDAYS: 11am-1pm, repeated 2pm-4pm, alternate Sundays. Hands-on workshops that start in the Gallery followed by a studio session.

27 Mar & 3 Apr. SHOOTING STARS Find your Hopes and Dreams in the mystical universe and make your own heavenly body.

13 Mar & 17 Apr. ART’S THE BUSINESS Meet important people and experiment with “frottage”, or paper-block printing, revealing sumptuous secrets.

20 Mar & 10 Apr. TINY STUDIO Did artists 500 years ago use candlelight or electric light?, create your own shoebox studio.

MORE GALLERY FUN TRAILS AND AUDIO TOURS Families can print it out from www.nationalgallery.org.uk/families or pick one up at Information Desks.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY St Martin’s Place, London WC2H 0HE 020 7306 0055, www.npg.org.uk/events Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun 10am-6pm. Late opening Thu, Fri 10am-9pm.

FAMILY EVENTS: Meet in the Ondaatje Wing Main Hall Sat 19 Mar. STORYTELLING FOR FAMILIES 10.30am & 1.30pm.

Bring the Gallery’s portraits to life in this exciting storytelling sessions followed by a fun art activity.

Sat 19 Mar. FAMILY ART WORKSHOP 11.30am & 2.30pm. Explore portraits in the Collection, followed by an art activity in this enjoyable family session. Free ticket required and available one hour before the event.

NEW FAMILY AUDIO GUIDE £6 for up to five audio players £4 for two audio players (one adult and one child) Explore amazing facts and stories about people in the Collection with specially recorded tours and interactive touch screen players. 7-11yrs

TATE BRITAIN Millbank, London SW1P 4RG 020 7887 8888 www.tate.org.uk/britain Open daily 10am-6pm. Until 10pm on the first Fri of the month.

FAMILIES TRIALS Available daily from the information desks. Free, for 5yrs and under. Go on a journey around Tate Britain and post your discoveries into your POST IT! Box as you go. When you get home, open up the box and show your friends what you found. Or you could follow the JOIN UP! Trail: play the listening game, search for shapes, patterns and talking hands..and make your own sculptures.

ART TROLLEY ROTUNDA Every weekend, free, all ages. All things marvelous and messy can be found on the Art Trolley where kids are encouraged to imagine and create.

Visit 345 Nursery where “The quality of teaching and learning is outstanding” (Ofsted 2008).

Children become independent inquisitive and motivated in this rich and vibrant learning environment.

Great outdoor space!

Options include Afternoon School, Lunch Club and Early Bird Club. www.345nurseryschool.co.uk Please contact us on 020-8870-8441 or dixonannab@aol.com Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity Road, London SW18 3SA

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®

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

March 2011

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

What’s on

TATE MODERN

SNAKES AND LADDERS

Bankside, London SE1 020 7887 8888 www.tate.org.uk/modern Open Sun-Thu 10am-6pm. Fri & Sat 10am-10pm FAMILY ZONE Anytime during gallery hours. Tate Modern, Level 3 Concourse. Free, 3yrs+. A bright red family-friendly zone offering activities for all: stop here to browse fun art books. Meet the Start team and pick up games to play on selected dates.

CHILDREN MULTIMEDIA GUIDE Daily from the Information Desks on Levels 3 & 3. £4.50, 5yrs+. Will keep youngsters captivated and animate artworks through music, video clips and entertaining games – a sensory experience for all the family to enjoy.

START: WEEKEND SESSIONS Every weekend 124pm. Level 3 Concourse, free, 5yrs+ With the help of a friendly Start Team, stimulate your weekend with games, map-making or clue-matching. (BSL interpreter will be available on Sat 15 Jan) TATE MODERN FAMILY RESOURCES Available daily from the Information Desks on Levels 1 and 2. Free, for all ages.

Pick up a free families resource and set off to explore the Galleries with paper-based activities that will help you look, enjoy and learn about art.

For more family listing visit: www.tate.org.uk/families/modern/

Syon Park, Brentford, Middlesex TW8 8JF 020 8847 0946 www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk Open daily 10am-6pm. £3.90 to £7.30.

Thu 17 Mar. ST PATRICK’S DAY FUN! Wear green and save £1 on child entry. Make sure you download your voucher at www.snakes-andladders.co.uk/offers and bring it with you.

EVERY THURSDAY DURING TERM TIME. ARTY CRAFTY THURSDAYS 11am New fun and exciting activities every week.

EVERY TUESDAY DURING TERM TIME. MUSICAL MAYHEM 11am. Toddlers can enjoy dance, musical instruments and all their favourite songs.

HMS BELFAST Tooley Street, London SE1 2JH 020 7403 6246 www.hmsbelfast.iwm.org.uk Open Daily 10am-5pm. £10.80/£13.50, children under 16s free.

12 & 13 Mar. SHIP’S CONSERVATION Drop-in 11am-12.30pm & 2pm-4pm. Get your hands dirty and examine objects that relate to the ongoing work of London’s largest conservation project, HMS Belfast. A unique opportunity to learn more about the process from experts. Suitable for all ages with parental supervision.

National Trust

NATIONAL TRUST HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN LONDON www.nationaltrust.org.uk/localtoyou or 01494 755500.

FREE ENTRY TO MOTHERS ON 3 APRIL!

HAM HOUSE Ham Street, Ham, Richmond upon Thames TW10 7RS 020 8940 1950 Garden, shop and café open everyday, 11am-5pm. House open every day except Friday 11.30am-3.30pm, then 124pm from 2 April.

Until 31 Mar, the 17th-century time capsule, widely reputed to be haunted, is running guided tours of the sumptuous interiors, which take in baking demonstrations and food testing in its historic kitchen.

In March “Taster Tour” (Thus, Sat, Sun) The large grounds can be explored with a self-guided garden trail for children, whilst a garden toy box provides further free entertainment.

From 2 Apr, visitors are free to explore the mansion alone, which children can do with the aid of a house trail that introduces them to exciting and colourful past. Plus, handson activities.

3 Apr. On Mothering Sunday Children will have the opportunity to create an hand-made floral gift for Mums, whilst the Orangery restaurant is running a special Mothering Sunday offer of a free glass of wine or soft drink with every two course meal.

Tuesday Tutors • We coach children for state and independent school and entry tests: VR, NVR, English, Maths and interview preparation.

• We are also happy to offer Maths and English support for children in school, and Home Education.

• NEW- a dedicated Maths tutor up to A Level available for home-visits in central London

OSTERLEY PARK

March 2011

See also www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/whatson

Tuesday Tutors has placed many children in top state and private schools. It is advisable to contact us early, as high demand may mean that your child will be placed on our waiting list. ...cont page 36

Jersey Road, Islework, Middlesex TW7 4RB Garden, shop and café open Wednesday to Sunday 11am5pm (house 12-3.30pm) Park open every day.

Just 8 miles from Piccadilly Circus!

Until 27 Mar. Special family guided tours.

From 30 Mar. Visitors are free to explore the house on their own, with children’s aids including an interactive handset, junior guidebook, and wooden compass and marigold counter which reveals more about Osterley’s exotic past.

27 Mar. FAMILY DISCOVERY DAY Children can find out more about the rich textiles in the house using creative

Experienced tutors welcome Tel: 020 7735 8268

07906 312541

tuesdaytutors@hotmail.co.uk tuesdaytutors.com

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travelmatters For the family holiday, flights or even a short break * Your local travel agent

from page 35

What’s on hands-on activities and storytelling. 12-4pm, free upon normal adm, no bkg.

3 Apr. Children can treat Mums to a spring time posy with a little help from the flower arranging team at the Make Mum Day craft workshop 12-4pm.

GARDEN TOURS A garden quiz leads children on a tour of discovery around the grounds, including a rare cork oak tree and a boathouse island.

www.travelmatters.co.uk Call Karen or Catherine

020 8675 7878

HUGE SALE OF NEW AND SECOND-HAND SKI CLOTHES FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN SKISUITS, JACKETS, SALOPETTES, GLOVES, SNOWBOOTS, GOGGLES, HELMETS, ETC. BIG REDUCTIONS ON LAST YEAR'S STOCK PLUS THIS YEAR’S NEW COLLECTION At 22 Northbourne Road, Clapham, SW4 7DJ

www.skiderouge.com

LONDON DUCK TOURS 020 7928 3132 or www.londonducktours.co.uk London Duck Tours is a sightseeing company that offers tours from a fleet of bright yellow amphibious vehicles originally used for the D.Day landings in 1944. It is the only sightseeing tour that combines a trip on land and river.

BRAND NEW TOUR: THE D.DAY DUCK TOUR. The tour will take passengers back in time to London’s home front during the Second World War. In a lively, entertaining and informative adventure suitable for all the family, a professional character tour guide will reveal London’s most important Second World War sights.

This tour will operate the first Sunday of every month. £16 to £22.

Any enquiries ring Libby de Rougemont on

020 7720 4871 / 07939 051220 libbyderouge@hotmail.co.uk Do come and bring friends £2 entry for charity

EXHIBITIONS & MUSEUMS

This exhibition will transform the second floor of the Wellcome Wing in the Museum, making it THE destination to explore the science of climate change. The exhibition includes a 700 year-old Antarctic ice core and hopes to inform the public about Climate Science, its limitations and its history. Free.

FLY ZONE Visit the brand new Fly Zone simulator area where you take control in 360 degree flight simulators or fly with the Red Arrows in our sensational 3D motion effects theatre. Charges apply.

IMAX 3D Cinema. Charges apply.

LAUNCHPAD SCIENCE SHOWS Launch a rocket, turn your head into a sound box and control a magnetic cloud and play with 50 more brand new interactive exhibits demonstrating light, sound, electricity and magnetism and more amazing physics phenomena. Free. 8-14yrs.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM Lambeth Road, London SE1 6HZ. 10am-6pm. 020 7416 5320/5321. www.iwm.org.uk NEW EXHIBITION To 30 Oct 2011. ONCE UPON A WARTIME: CLASSIC WAR STORIES FOR CHILDREN The exhibition delves into the pages of well-loved books, bringing five stories of war dramatically to life. Behind the scenes of the stories, see what inspired the authors to write their books, and find out about the historical context of each story through objects, photographs and films. £3.95 to £5.95, family £12.50.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

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

020 7381 3511 020 7736 8729

Cromwell Road, London SW7. 020 7938 9123. Open: Mon-Sat: 10am – 5.50pm Sun: 11am-5.50pm.

Info: Mon-Fri 020 7942 5000. Sat & Sun 020 7942 5011.

Free. www.nhm.ac.uk EXHIBITIONS: To 11 Mar. LAST CHANCE TO SEE: VEOLIA ENVIRONEMENT WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR The world’s most prestigious showcase of wildlife photography is back with the latest winning entries from its annual international competition. Visually stunning and often thought-provoking, the images provide an insight into the beauty, drama and variety of nature. £4.50 /£9, family £24. www.nhm.ac.uk/wildphoto To 2 Oct. SEXUAL NATURE A multi-sensory journey, allowing visitors to experience the diversity of methods exploited in seduction and reproduction. Through more than 100 real Museum specimens, learn how potential mates maximize reproductive potential and investigate how mate choice has evolved in humans. £4/£8, family £21.

DARWIN CENTRE: The hidden world of the Natural History Museum’s scientific collections and research.

Daily 10am-5.50pm. To book time tickets for Cocoon 020 7942 5725 or www.nhm.ac.uk/darwin-centre EVENTS FOR FAMILIES: check the full listing on www.nhm.ac.uk/whats-on Here some highlights: Sats, Suns and School Hol. HANDS-ON NATURE: CORALS 2pm-5pm. Visit the handling trolley in “Lasting Impressions” and take a closer look at some interesting specimens with the help of science educators. Free.

19 Mar. CRAFTY NATURE: OCEAN MAMMALS 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm. Use interesting materials to make fun creations based on natural history themes,. In the Mammal Gallery. Under 7yrs. Free.

27 Mar. NATURAL PUPPET TALES. 12noon & 1.30pm. A lively storytelling workshops based on discovering amazing facts about the natural world. Free, to reserve a place visit the Central Hall information Desk.

DAILY FAMILY ACTIVITES Younger visitors can pick up an Explorer backpack and take a mini adventure around the Museum.

SCIENCE MUSEUM Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk Open 10am-6pm. Info & bkg 0870 870 4868. Adm is free but charges apply to some special exhibitions, IMAX cinema and simulator rides ATMOSPHERE: EXPLORING CLIMATE CHANGE

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NEW FAMILY ACTIVITY 5-6 Mar. STORY TELLING 11.30am, 1pm & 2pm. Kids are invited to listen and participate in tales all of which link to the theme of children and war. 6yrs+. Free.

26-27 Mar. FAMILY INTRODUCTION TO THE HOLOCAUST 11am-12noon. This session is suitable for children aged 11 and above but please note that the holocaust Exhibition is recommended for children aged 14 and above. Free drop- in session.

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200, www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Daily 10am-5.45pm. Free.

EXHIBITION To 25 Apr. FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD Explores how food plays a central role in our lives. Foodies young and old can explore eclectic displays of labour-saving gadgets and historic culinary devices and explore kitchen larder, packed with interesting food stories and nostalgic packaging.

Visitors can also share their food likes and dislikes using special food phones.

EVENT FOR FAMILIES Sat 12 Mar. MONTESSORI FOR FAMILIES 11am4pm. Discover useful techniques to aid your child’s learning with a practical workshop led by Montessori educators. Drop-in, all ages.

Sat 26 Mar. GOING ON A BEAR HUNT, with Michael Rosen. 2.30pm-3.30pm. Enjoy an afternoon of poetry with this unique opportunity to meet one of the nation’s favourite poets. Bookings taken from Mon 14 Mar 020 8983 5205 or email mocbookings@vam.ac.uk. Age 4-11.

®

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

March 2011

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

Children under 12 must be accompanied.

CHURCHILL MUSEUM & CABINET WAR ROOMS. Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London SW1A 2AQ 020 7930 6961.

Open daily 9.30am-6pm. £12.80 to £15.95. Under 16 free.

19 & 20 Mar. CHURCHILL CABINET OF CURIOSITIES Drop-in 11am-12.30pm & 2pm-4pm. An

Churchill War Rooms

What’s on

provide about the violent formation of the Solar System.

Plus there’s the chance to see and touch real space rocks in the ROG’s astronomy galleries.

SPECIAL EVENT: NATIONAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING WEEK. EVENING WITH THE STARS 11, 12 & 14 Mar. Get involved with National Science and Engineering Week at the popular after-dark experience at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich: watch the Sky Tonight planetarium show, look through the gigantic 28-inch telescope and use small telescopes in the Meridian Courtyard. 5.25pm, 5.30pm, 6.45pm, 6.50pm (2hrs). £16, family £54. 7yrs+

MUSEUM OF LONDON London Wall, EC2Y 5HN 020 7001 9844. Open daily 10am-6pm MUSEUM EXPLORED Join one of the Museum's Hosts and explore the galleries through fun, hands-on activities.

Museum of London

engaging drop-in session where visitors can examine replica objects that have become unique symbols of Churchill, the most famous of British wartime leaders..and even try on the clothes! Entry included in adm price. Suitable for all ages with parental supervision.

BRITISH MUSEUM Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG, 020 7323 8000, www.britishmuseum.org NEW EHXIBITION: To 3 July. AFGHANISTAN: CROSSROADS OF THE ANCIENT WORLD A unique opportunity to see an exceptional collection of over 200 objects which show how ancient Afghanistan was at the heart of a cultural crossroads. It revolves around precious objects drawn from some of the most important sites in the country. Each tells a story of how the inhabitants traded with or were influenced by the fashions of their ancient neighbours. Adm charge.

GREENWICH NATIONAL MUSEUM AND QUEEN’S HOUSE Daily 10am-5pm.

Adm free. 020 8858 4422, www.nmm.ac.uk FAMILY EVENTS: EXPLORE SATURDAYS 12, 19, 26 Mar. 12noon, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm. Meet a character from the past and take part in an exciting performance that will bring maritime history to life. 6yrs+.

DISCOVER SUNDAYS 13, 20, 27 Mar. 11.30am1.30pm & 2pm-4pm. Be inspired by our maritime past and explore your personal connections to the sea. All ages.

PLAY TUESDAYS 8, 15, 22, 29 Mar. 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm, 2pm. NMM. Young children can have fun with their families as they explore the Museum through making music, dance and drama. Under 5s. Timed sessions, collect free tickets from admission desk.

THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY, GREENWICH Daily 10am-5pm.

Adm free. 020 8858 4422, www.nmm.ac.uk EXHIBITION 12 Mar-29 Aug. IMPACT: COLLISIONS AND CATASTROPHES From meteor showers to giant asteroid impacts, the Earth is constantly bombarded by debris from space. This brand new exhibition takes a look at these fiery visitors and their impacts on our planet, which can cause death and destruction, laying waste to vast areas and even triggering mass extinctions of plants and animals.

It also explores the vital clues that asteroids and meteorites

March 2011

Il Club Italiano Italian for children aged 3-11, 4 to 5pm Sun 20 Mar 11.30am -1.30pm & 2pm-4pm. Free MASK MAKING Create a mask for a Victorian pleasure garden. 5yrs+. Free Sun 13 Mar 12.30pm – 2pm & 2.30pm-4pm PUNCH AND JUDY Come and join in with this popular Victorian entertainment.. 5yrs+. Free Sun 27 Mar 1pm-1.20pm, 2pm-2.25pm & 3pm-3.25pm

Thursdays: Fulham Fridays: Chelsea Also: Italian for adults in Barnes and Richmond

STEFANIA Tel: 020 8748 6418

Approx £121 per term.

www.italianlearning.co.uk www.racc.ac.uk Italian for adults classes in Richmond.

MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS West India Quay, E14 4AL 020 7001 9844. Open daily 10am-6pm.

UNDER 5’s STORY TIME Stories, music and fun every Thursday during term-time, then come and play in Mudlarks. 0-5yrs. Free Thu 10 Mar 3pm-3.30pm Thu 17 Mar 3pm-3.30pm Thu 24 Mar 3pm-3.30pm Thu 31 Mar 3pm-3.30pm THE GHOST CHICKEN OF POND SQUARE Have you ever wondered what inspired the first frozen chicken?

Or what became of that chicken? Come and hear the story of Francis Bacon which you may just find a bit hard to swallow! 5yrs+. Free.

Sat 12 Mar 12.30pm -1pm, 2.30pm-3pm & 3.30pm-4pm.

MAMI WATA COMES TO LONDON Mami Wata was an African-Caribbean mermaid/anaconda woman. Learn about her journey to London with the Baku spirit trapped in a bottle, and help us make an animated story. 5yrs+.

Free.

Sat 19 Mar 12.30pm -1.30pm & 2.30pm-3.30pm The MUSEUM OF LONDON and MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS have a fantastic programme of family events coming up in March.

Please visit the websites for details. www.museumoflondon.org.uk and www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands

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

Visit www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/whatson

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FOR SALE

CHILDCARE etc

• Halfords Apollo Sweetpea 14" girl’s bike, lilac with flowers, with stabilisers (not attached), on offer at Halfords now for £60 will accept £25. Good condition.

Please call Jo 07944 030465 •2 bicycles, superb condition, one to suit 7 to 10 yr old, one to fit 10 to 12 yr old. £30 and £60. Metal cot side, £10. Tel 07990 580578 •Tutti Bambini deluxe white recliner glider chair (feeding chair) plus gliding foot stool, very comfortable with excellent lower back support (foot stool still has plastic protective covering) £100. Contact Nathalie 07894 460334 • Baby clothes, toys and books in good condition 0-3 yrs (mainly boys): Gap, John Lewis, etc up to £3 each; Jane Navy blue rocker padded seat, multi position, suitable from birth, £25; circular baby gym £20; Tippitoes door bouncer and numerous other baby items, please call for details (Southfields): 020 8870 4471 • Wooden single bunk bed with mattress and detachable ladder, very solid (John Lewis) £60; IKEA child’s desk, yellow laminate with bureau style shelves, computer shelf etc £40; white-painted wooden rocking chair £40 020 8769 6400

Offered •Wimbledon, Childminder for ages 4 to 10 (4 spaces available). Safe and loving family environment in Merton park with free parking. Degree educated, mother offers aftercare with school pick-up. Possibility of drop-off in the mornings. 90% holiday cover. Homework support/healthy meals provided.

Paediatric first aid certificate, and Ofsted registration (incl. CRB check) pending. Lovely garden with dedicated activities room. English, Afrikaans spoken. Please call Lisa on 07582119675 for further info.

•Ofsted registered, qualified and experienced nanny NVQ level 2 with first aid certificate and CRB check.

Please call Wilmot 07961 505119 for more info.

• Experienced and reliable Nanny/Mother's Help looking for part-time work (mornings only).

Live-in and can baby-sit. Excellent refs available. Please ring 07543 647321 and leave message.

• Friendly, reliable and enthusiastic nanny available for evening and weekend babysitting, located in Fulham, 5 years childcare experience, checkable references.

Please call Aneta 07891 197693 • Outstanding Childminder SW17, 4

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days per week place for 0-3 yr old available in September 2011. Term time only. I also pick up from Furzedown Primary School. High quality childcare in a fun environment. Tania's Tots 07946 527254 taniaaross@yahoo.co.uk • 22 years old, fully qualified primary teacher, loves children with experience of working with them would like to live in as an au-pair for 12 months plus to improve English.

Could start from July 2011.

References available. Contact azibai@euskalnet.net • Qualified nanny with nine years experience in Battersea looking for evening and weekend babysitting work or full days Monday or Friday in surrounding areas. I have a valid first aid/CRB certificate. Please call Gaby on 07708 654036 Wanted • Part-time, live-in nanny in SW12 required for three children. Selfcontained studio annex available to live in and we're looking for about 20 to 25 hours (flexible) per week.

Looking for an experienced, funloving and deeply caring nanny to keep our children safe and happy whilst we work. Please call Claire on 07976 826 852 or email clairebrynteson@buy-time.co.uk for further details.

• I am looking for a personal carer to help my family with either school runs or babysitting, Brixton area, 7 to 10 hours available. Must have a full drivers licence and some experience of working with children with special needs. Please call 07941 533 747 • One to one Arabic and Islamic teacher wanted!!! Brixton area for Sundays. 07963 247919

HOUSEKEEPING

•I am looking for cleaning work, all areas. Available to clean gardens as well - the spring is coming! Honest lady with lots of experience and references. Call Nelly 07988 884994 or 020 3093 4015 •Experienced cleaner with good references looking for work in Knightsbridge and Chelsea on Saturdays. Please contact Yahira Tascon on 07507 153759 • Experienced domestic cleaning and ironing to a high standard, competitive rates. Please call Mary (Mon to Fri) 07860 578355 •Busy Life? Are you looking for help? I can help you with housework. Hard worker, reliable and honest with good refs. Please call 07939 129991 housecleaner4u@hotmail.co.uk

March 2011

classified ads Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy Creative therapy for children and adolescents, parenting groups and consultations. South and South West London. *Kathryn Shearing,** **MA (TCAP), Dip Co., Dip SP, UKCP *Reg*.*

Tel.07779 5959 76 kathrynarielshearing@gmail.com www.kathrynshearing.co.uk

Reliable Handyman • Garden maintenance and building work (fences, patios, sheds, etc..)

• Jobs around the house (carpentry, painting, fitting furniture, etc…)

• Computer maintenance (repair, teaching) £20/hour or packages possible.

Call Brian: 0774 513 6424

Handyman Reliable, skilled and tidy General home maintenance, including: • Carpentry and painting • Garden clearance and fencing • Flatpack assembly and fitted kitchens Please call Nigel Fletcher for further details or free quotation. 07988 983273

TUITION

Learn to massage your child Massage is relaxing and brings loving closeness.

Learn simple techniques in your own home or your friend's.

Hands-on parent and child workshop by qualified massage therapist and aromatherapist.

Call Lorraine on 079101 14153 Come all the family and learn

AMITY COMPUTER SERVICES

Spanish with Pedro.

Home and business computers repaired & managed.

Consultancy and tuition also available.

Group and individual lessons.

Call Pedro on 07956 699963

Phone Danny on

SPEECH SPECIALISTS

8944 0681 or 07961 428 596

Individual Tuition Public Speaking, Confidence Building, Interview Technique, Speech & Drama

E-mail: acs@amitygrove.com

PAINTING & DECORATING

SERVICES Man Friday Carpenter/Handyman • Doors • floors • flatpacks • • kitchens • bathrooms • • painting • decorating • • lettings maintenance • gardens • Fully insured and CRB checked.

Tel Dave: 07761 055071 Office: 020 8874 2830

PAINTERS & DECORATORS General Building Maintenance

"The perfect painters"

BUILDING AND HANDYMAN SERVICE Painting, decorating, carpentry, plastering.

Fit lights, switch, sockets.

Change a lock, hang blinds, picture. Assemble furniture, putting up shelves.

CALL MARK 07834 069943

(020) 7735 3156

John:- James & Lamont

020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695

Carpenter RELIABLE, FRIENDLY & AFFORDABLE SERVICE No Job too small City & Guilds Qualifications SAM FROST 07855 433 412

PRIVATE SPANISH TUTOR Qualified & experienced class teacher G.C.S.E. & A-Level preparation Younger age groups / beginners Maria Baker 07881 828513 www.wimbledonspanish.co.uk

MUSIC FLUTE LESSONS IN YOUR HOME Experienced teacher & musician Please call Maria 07742 519743 www.marianikiforos.co.uk

PIANO TUITION Friendly, experienced and qualified teacher of children 6+ and adults.

Take exams or learn purely for pleasure.

Different styles covered.

Home visits possible.

Mark Lester MA, CT ABRSM

020 8870 7830 www.marklester.biz

VACANCY

Est. 25 years

020 8741 4242 Prompt reliable seven day service for deep down cleaning, removing dust, mites, dirt & stains

• CARPENTER• 30yrs experience working in SW London homes

Design + build 020 7610 0906 • 07966 159234 www.mccormackcarpentry.com

March 2011

Earn Extra Money?

Capital Focus Groups are looking for people to take part in Market Research and give their opinion on a variety of subjects.

If you would like to earn extra cash please call Liz on 07761 128059 or e-mail e.dahlgren@btinternet.com

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www.familiesmagazine.co.uk

JAMES ALLEN CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANERS

Clare Price. LGSM, ALAM, SRD.

adverts@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Family-friendly painters, decorators, plasterers, household jobs…

Call Tony for a reasonable quote.

07930 348095

SW8 & SW19 Studios

Interior / Exterior Experienced, Reliable, Clean Fully Guaranteed / Insured FREE ADVICE & QUOTE

Contact us: PO Box 4302, London SW16 1ZS 020 8696 9680 Fax: 020 8696 9679

HEALTH

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ŠFamilies Magazine

March 2011