Families London SW Issue 215 April 2012 by Families Magazine

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

April 2012

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Iss

South West

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ISSN ue 21 4 135 4-95 Est 53 19

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BABY feature Easter Egg hunts Easter activities Easter days out

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already here heaven is on ea be in rth o Everyth t ing that is supposed

April 2012

Contents

SouthWest

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04-05

Local news & information 04-05

06-07

Community Spirit How to make a positive impact on local life. Transition Towns

All content ©Families 2012 www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680 Fax: 020 8696 9679 Editorial: editor@familiesmagazine.co.uk News: news@familiesmagazine.co.uk Adverts/artwork: adverts@familiesmagazine.co.uk Personal ads: personalads@familiesmagazine.co.uk Events, diary dates, whats on info: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Why we need to eat more fat not less

11-15

•“Families® South West” heads a group of magazines. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

Bad posture and what parents can do

17-19

Playgroups listing part 2

20-21

Easter days out

We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources — meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced. Inks are soyabased, which can be re-cycled. Find us on Facebook and Twitter FamiliesSW

in Surrey and Kent Ten best Easter egg hunts

24-26

Easter listings part 2 Camps, workshops, courses

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Luca and Maya make Easter Eggs

Parenting

24-26

Setting boundaries

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31-37

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What’s On • Drama • Events • Exhibitions & Museums • Easter events

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BABY Feature • Real nappies... • Fevers in babies • Acupuncture • Hypnobirthing • Baby Directory

Next issue: May 2012 Deadline: early April

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Health

News

By Joanna Parry

Need a nanny?

Follow the torch

A new nanny agency opens this spring, run by seasoned nanny and maternity nurse Lizzie Petersen. Willow Nannies and Maternity is a small, friendly and approachable agency in SW London aiming to offer a bespoke personal service finding nannies, night nannies and maternity nurses. So, if you’re looking for a hardworking, reliable, competent, flexible and unflappable nanny, give them a try! 020 8788 3029, info@willownannies.co.uk, www.willownannies.co.uk

The 2012 Olympic Torch visited Hornsby House School in Wandsworth this winter, an exciting and memorable experience for all. “It was gold and shiny,” said one pupil. “It was as big as me!” The children were joined by the school’s swimming coach Adrian Turner, who took part in the 2004 Olympics in Athens. “What a wonderful opportunity this was for the children and the school community,” said Jon Gray, Headmaster. “Some had seen pictures of the Torch but all were amazed to see and touch the real thing. It was a truly inspirational morning and a terrific way to launch our Olympic theme." www.hornsby-house.co.uk

Olympic Torch and Olympian Adrian Turner with children at Hornsby House School

Baby needs help? Local clinic Physio For All now has branches in both Chelsea and Battersea, offering specialised paediatric physiotherapy for children and babies. Addressing the needs of children from birth to adolescence, it has developed a service specifically for respiratory conditions, while paediatric physiotherapy can promote independence, facilitate motor development and improve strength. Battersea 020 7228 2141, Chelsea 020 7373 0050, email info@physio4all.com. Baby Chest Physiotherapy 7/7 Help Line 07980 655 248. www.physio4all.com

Mystical wizard

Party idea to shout about Check out the new ‘Storybook Party’ from Notorious Kids. The entertainment specialists can bring to life your child’s favourite storybook, working their magic to create the characters and even making the birthday child one of the characters in the story. See your story leap off the page in front of your eyes. Notoriously excellent! 020 8682 2799, kids@notoriousproductions.co.uk, www.notoriousproductions.co.uk.

Run for your money Sign up for RBC Race for the Kids 5k challenge in Battersea Park this June and help raise vital funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital. The charity needs to raise £50 million every year to help refurbish GOSH, buy vital equipment and fund pioneering research, so between now and Sunday 24 June they are encouraging families to sign up – with your help they can keep the magic alive for the very ill children they treat at GOSH. Run, jog or walk the 5km distance and afterwards enjoy stage acts, arts and crafts, face painting and bouncy castles. www.raceforthekids.co.uk, 020 7239 3164 or email raceforthekids@gosh.org. www.gosh.org

Bespoke jewellery in New party idea! If you’re looking for something fun and refreshing Wimbledon for your child's birthday party, look no further! Discover beautiful handmade jewellery by a local jewellery artist. If you’re looking for bespoke jewellery for a gift or even a treat for yourself, take a look at www.aliajewels.com. Based in Wimbledon, Alia offers a jewellery design service that takes into account the astrological and numerological facts of the client and incorporates this with the creation of the piece, creating stunning jewellery that reflects the personality and taste of the wearer. Worth a peek!

Miss.Stitch provides sewing parties for children aged 6 and above - working with felt is an easy and fun way to learn, providing the children with an achievable creative project and a fantastic creation to take home with them. Miss.Stitch is a local company based in St. Margarets and provides parties across SW London. All materials are supplied and parties start at £85 for 6 children. 07866 249717, info@miss-stitch.com miss-stitch.com

New classes with... added bubbles! Check out the new Smiley Time classes drop-in session for babies to under fives where they will be entertained for 30 mins with nursery rhymes, songs, stories and bubbles! Mondays at 10am at The Althorp (previously The Bowler), 20 Bellevue Rd, Wandsworth SW17 7EB, Tuesdays at 10am and 10.45am at Belle Amie, 404 Garratt Lane, Earlsfield SW18 4HP, and Thursdays at 10am, also at The Althorp. Smiley Time runs throughout half terms and school holidays and is also available for private parties. www.smileytime.co.uk

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Cross country champs! The Study Preparatory School, Wimbledon is not only renowned for its academic achievement but has now added another sporting success to its record. In the recent ISA Regional Cross Country Championships 2012, the Team Winner Prizes were awarded to three Study girls, and the school received the U12 London West Team Cross Country The Study Cross Country team Girls Trophy for the second year running. “I am delighted that the girls’ hard work and rigorous training schedules have paid off so well,” said Alison Dalgleish, Head of PE. “I am confident they will perform brilliantly at National level also.” www.thestudyprep.co.uk

Pets win prizes All aboard for the London Pet Show 2012! Come and explore a wonderful world of creatures great and small on May 12 and 13 at Earls Court Two. The event will showcase a range of pets and will have four zones: Discover Dogs, Discover Cats, Discover Small Furries and Discover Animals. Each area will have its own live interactive features with demonstrations, talks and activities. £13 adults, £9 children, under fives go free. 0844 873 7332, www.londonpetshow.co.uk

Larkhall Primary

Kids sell their wares

Sing with your pram!

This summer pupils from Clapham’s primary schools will be taking a pitch at Venn Street Market to sell fruit and vegetables grown from this year’s harvest. The Clapham Leaf Club project is designed to enable pupils of the Clapham and Larkhall Collaborative schools (Allen Edwards, Clapham Manor, Heathbrook, Lark Hall Primary and Macaulay CE) and St Mary’s RC, to learn all aspects of growing their own food from preparing the soil to sowing seeds and culturing crops. The schools will also be linked to a blogging space so they can share ideas, making this a truly collaborative community project! www.vennstreetmarket.co.uk/clapham-leaf-club-6/

Move over Military Wives – now the singing bug is biting local mums! If you like to sing, check out the new parent and carer singing group, Pram Chorus. Here, parents can have it all: they can sing in a choir while their pre-school-age children play around them. The kids love it too, enjoying the spectacle and hearing the adults singing. For more information contact Ruth Routledge on pramchorus@gmail.com or 07946 900543.

Pastel workshop at SCHS

Recycle creatively Start Imagining is a new recycling programme for schools and families, inspired by HRH The Prince of Wales to stimulate young people to create arts and crafts from scrap or reclaimed materials. To kick-start the campaign a national competition has been launched for ages 5 to 16 to create a model boat that will be exhibited in London throughout June. Children have the opportunity to create an extraordinary and visionary model using reclaimed materials. ‘Start Imagining’ is a collaboration between Start, Cool it Schools, Craft Club and Freecycle and is available to schools through free, online resource packs. So get re-using! www.startimagining.co.uk

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Cutting edge art There are some exciting activities going on in the Art Department of Streatham and Clapham High School! Using the very latest technology, the school is hosting an innovative programme of pastel workshops and art tutorials - Liz Jory, artistin-residence at Dulwich Picture Gallery, ran a series of oil pastel workshops, while to complement the David Hockney exhibition at the Royal Academy of Art, SCHS hosted a tutorial on a painting/drawing application for iPads and iPhones, a technique favoured by the artist himself. Head of Art, Amy Sillitoe commented, “This is hugely exciting for the department. In addition to developing traditional art skills, we encourage our pupils to explore new and interactive media”. www.schs.gdst.net

Community spirit

How to make a positive impact on local life

Welcome to happy town

If you want to have a say in local decisions and improve your quality of life, it’s time you joined the Transition Town movement Perhaps you haven’t heard of Transition Towns. You might find you are living in one already. You should find out, because Transition Towns are the most exciting urban revolution in decades, and being part of yours gives you the chance to change your life and that of your family for the better.

Trashcatchers Carnival in Tooting

What Transition means to you

What is happening in London?

The movement has a strong showing in South West London where Towns are working to develop liveable and practical solutions to daily life once the cheap energy has dried up. Nicholas Crane, the presenter of Town and Coast, called Transition Towns “the biggest urban brainwave of the century.” It’s a genuine people’s movement, determined to enhance local life through initiatives as diverse as community gardening, knitting groups and talks on efficient insulation. Transition Town members find that through their efforts they know their neighbours, strengthen contacts within their council and have a real sense of achievement.

Trashcatchers Carnival in Tooting

Tooting- Credit Simon Maggs

There are few certainties in life, but one of them is that the planet is rapidly running out of oil. As it does so, oil will become so expensive that we are forced to find alternatives to every aspect of our lives, including travel, heating and manufacturing. A growing number of people around the world are embracing the changes that such a development will force on us by establishing Transition Towns. The guiding spirit of Transition Towns is a refusal to let global events overcome us, but to get out and make a change ourselves.

There are around 1,000 registered Transition Towns globally, and several in South West London, including Tooting, Brixton and Wandsworth. Transition groups get together in whatever configuration suits them locally. In the country, they are likely to have a large proportion of people connected with land-based skills. In a city, the spread of talents tends to be more varied. Several initiatives in South West London, for example, have benefitted from having landscape architects in their teams, who have designed efficient and stylish community gardens. Transition Towns work in tandem with their local councils, but without financial or policy control from them. Transition Towns are a-political and welcome all-comers – after all, a change in the world’s oil supply will affect us all equally.

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Tooting- Credit Simon Maggs

Compiled by Samantha Chippindale

Community spirit How do I get involved?

What am I missing? Transition Town Wandsworth is quite a new group but already has 60 people on its mailing list, of all whom bring different skills and interests. Tooting, a more established Town, has some 450 members, which gives it a comprehensive spread of talents and networking potential and allows it to organise some major events, such as last year’s Trashcatcher’s Carnival in July, which took to the streets in a blaze of recycled, colourful glory. It also hosted Foodival last October, an event that saw local restaurateurs being given produce from the community gardens in Tooting to cook for an open restaurant event.

Taking a role in your Town is easy. Everything Transition groups do is based on voluntary time. You don’t sign up for a full-time commitment, but what time you can manage, doing what you are good at and enjoy. If that means two hours gardening once a fortnight with the children ‘helping’ while you do it, then good for you, you are part of your Transition Town’s efforts. “Everyone comes at Transition from a different angle,” says Miranda Simmons of Transition Town Wandsworth. “I’m inspired by the Transition side of things – it’s practical and creative and every group is different. It has to be fun of course, to keep people coming.” No one considering joining a Transition Town group needs to be an alternative lifestyle guru or grow-your-own fanatic. As one of the key founders of Transition, Rob Hopkins has said about joining in: “It’s a party not a protest.” Skills among group members cover a wide variety of tasks. If you are a PA or office manager, you could be the ideal person to coordinate the work and progress within a Transition group. If you are in IT or design, then setting up a Town website could be your task. If you are a cook, showing people how to use the produce grown could be your contribution. “Expertise within a group directs the focus of that group,” says Simmons. Membership of Transition groups actively benefits if members both young and old can be recruited. It might be the younger members of a Transition community who do the heavy digging to get a garden started, for example, but the older local residents might well be the ones who know about planting rotation, bottling and preserving produce. As Simmons says, “We are all still learning. What is important is that the feeling behind what we are doing is so positive.”

To buy food at Foodival, customers used the Tooting Root, the local currency. It has its parallel in the Brixton Pound. In both Towns, local currencies were founded to encourage people to shop locally in outlets supporting the scheme, thus reducing food and car miles, promoting closer community ties and helping to keep small, independent shops going. It’s about bringing a village mentality to the city and encouraging a sense of co-dependency and shared effort. As a well-established Transition community, Brixton has a comprehensive range of groups to join, talks to attend and projects to become involved with. In some instances, locals are even set to benefit financially from their involvement. Brixton Energy is looking into to fitting solar panels to rooftops in the Loughborough Estate, working with Lambeth Council and the Low Carbon Zone. Brixton Energy is asking for financial pledges to buy panels, and is offering investors around a 4% annual return on their money. Now that’s what we call a win-win situation.

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The Transition Companion – Making Your Community More Resilient in Uncertain Times, by Rob Hopkins, published by Transition Guides, £19.95 Transition Network – a charity that connects Transition groups and offers support, www.transitionnetwork.org Transition Town Wandsworth, www.ttwandsworth.wordpress.com Transition Town Brixton, www.transitiontownbrixton.org Transition Town Tooting, www.transitiontowntooting.blogspot.com www.greattransitionstories.org Transition Town Streatham www.transitionstreatham.org upplies e party s Onlin

Birthday Partyware Birthday Invitations Party Bags & More www.partymagicbox.co.uk

Tooting Credit Simon Maggs

Trashcatchers Carnival in Tooting

Transition inspiration

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Health

Why we need to eat more fat not less By Penny Crowther

Fat is good for you!

Whilst everyone knows that cutting down on saturated fat (found mainly in, for example, fatty meats, fried food, pies, cakes and biscuits, cheese and cream), the fats we need more of are the omega 3 and 6 fats. These polyunsaturated fats (PUFAS), unlike saturated fats, are termed “essential” because they must be obtained through the diet and inadequate intake results in chronic symptoms.

What essential fats will do for you Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are required for producing prostaglandins, hormone-like substances which are present in all tissues and cells and which influence a whole range of body functions. They are needed for the metabolism to function efficiently. Therefore they are more likely to help rather than hinder weight loss. EFAs positively influence the following: • Immunity • Brain and nervous system (remember the brain is 60% fat!) • Mood (In 2005 a review in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry concluded that the omega 3 essential fatty acids DHA and EPA were of significant benefit in the treatment of mood disorders. Those suffering from depression have been found to have lower levels of omega-3 in their blood than non-depressed individuals). • Blood pressure control & healthy cholesterol management • Protective mucus of stomach • Hormone production. • Management of inflammation • Healthy skin and hair • Cell membrane structure – this must be exactly the right flexibility and strength in order to let nutrients into the cell and keep harmful toxins and bacteria out. The role of EFAs in brain function is no surprise since the brain contains such a high proportion of fat. Essential fatty acids pull oxygen into the body. This is important for all body tissue but particularly

for the extra active brain and nervous system tissue in which a high level of chemical reactivity takes place and a lot of oxygen is used up. EFAs also form electric charges which when activated produce tiny electrical currents that enable nerve cells to communicate with each other.

How to get enough daily EFAs in your diet 1. One tablespoon seeds (e.g. mix of pumpkin, sesame and sunflower). Raw seeds are ideal (with salads, muesli or porridge for example), but the ready made seed mixes are also fine. Provides omega 3 & 6 oils. 2. One tablespoon Walnut oil or Hemp seed oil (either on its own after a meal or with a salad or yoghurt smoothie). Provides omega 6 oil. Must not be heated. 3. At least 1000mg pure, contaminant – free fish oil © Robinson - Fotolia.com

Lack of PUFAs is a common problem as they don’t naturally appear in abundance in a “normal” diet. See below for how to get enough in your diet

One tablespoon seeds...

1000mg pure fish oil

Spring is a time of year when we often feel motivated to get healthy. Thoughts of fitting into holiday swimwear may loom large and for many this means dieting. Unfortunately weight loss still tends to be associated with going low or no fat and this misguided notion can lead to issues such as low mood, poor memory, dry skin and hormonal problems to name but a few.

Flax, walnut & pumpkin oil are alternative omega 3 sources to fish oil. But remember that, unlike fish oil, these vegetable oils do not directly contain the important DHA/EPA fats. The body has to make the DHA/EPA from the oil and depending on factors such as excess sugar, alcohol or a lack of vitamin B6, B3, zinc or magnesium, the conversion may not happen very efficiently. People with conditions involving high insulin e.g. diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure or cholesterol may also have poor conversion. The conversion problem also applies to making the omega 6 fat, GLA which is why evening primrose oil is sometimes needed.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR ON FOOD LABELS When looking at food labels, look out for the saturated (bad) fat content. A food containing 20g or more of fat per 100g is high in fat but it may be unsaturated (good) fat. The average total daily fat intake in the Uk is around 140g and it should be half this (around 70g)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR ON FOOD LABELS

Fat Saturates Total Sugars Salt

Low g/100g

Medium High g/100g g/100g

0-3g 0-1.5g 0-5g 0-0.3g

3-20g 1.5-5g 5-15g 0.3-1.5g

20g or more 5g or more 15g or more 1.5g or more

Source: Food Standards Agency

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Real nappies … real easy!

Super Quick Salmon Fish Cakes (for 2 people) This omega 3 rich recipe is adapted from a Jamie Olive recipe and the rye bread crumbs make it hang together nicely with no flour needed. 2 x 150g salmon fillets without skin (can also use other oily fish such as tuna) 2 slices of Rossisky rye bread or spelt bread Flat leaf parsley Half a garlic clove Squeeze of fresh lemon juice Put the bread in the food processor to make fine crumbs and put to one side. Add the fish to the processor with the parsley leaves (stalks removed), a good squeeze of lemon juice, garlic clove, black pepper and a teaspoon of olive oil. Process until coarsely mixed. Tip the fish mixture onto a plate and add 2 heaped tablespoons of breadcrumbs. Mix with hands and form into 4 evenly sized cakes. Pat them down to flatten. Coat both sides in the remaining breadcrumbs. Add olive oil to a frying pan and when hot, fry the fishcakes for approx 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Serve with green salad or veg or a fresh salsa (cucumbers, chillies, tomatoes, spring onions, fresh basil or coriander).

Flax Salad Dressing Juice of one freshly squeezed lemon 4 tablespoons organic flax oil 1 teaspoon tamari sauce 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion (can put in food processor) Half teaspoon mixed dried herbs or 2 teaspoons fresh herbs

Real Nappy Week 2012 will take place between the 16th and 22nd of April The event will be running alongside Real Diaper Week in the US and we will also be joined by many other European countries to show parents across the globe that Real Nappies are Real Easy! Research carried out by Go Real in 2010 found that parents are sometimes put off using Real Nappies because they believe that they will take up too much time, are inconvenient and messy! These are popular misconceptions which Nappy Week will do its best to disprove! See the details of all Real Nappy Week events through the events calendar online. If you fancy doing your bit to tell others about how great Real Nappies could you hold your own event? A Real Nappy Week event can be as simple as inviting a few friends around to your living room for a quick demo. What ever you are doing there is support from handy advice guides and promotional resources. Just drop an email to: tara.jones@goreal.org.uk and let her know what type of event you are interested in hosting and they’ll send you a Real Nappy Week event pack. www.goreal.org.uk/real-nappy-week

Why is there such a demand for doulas? Dr Michel Odent of www.paramanadoula.com: "Until recently a woman could not have a baby without releasing a complex cocktail of "love hormones". Today, in many countries, most women give birth without relying on the release of such a flow of hormones. Pharmacological substitutes that block the release of the natural substances and have no behavioural effects are widely used (e.g. epidural anaesthesia replacing endorphins, plus drips of synthetic oxytocin). Ideally, a doula has herself given birth without any medication and without any intervention; she is an experienced mother or grand-mother. More and more young women feel that there is something wrong in the current system. They meet a series of midwives for ante-natal care. They experience one or several shifts of midwives during labour and they usually meet other midwives for post-natal care. They feel the need to rely on one only mother figure before, during and after the birth – and so, the demand for doulas is increasing.

Beat lemon juice and flax oil until creamy. Stir in tamari sauce, onions and herbs. For a creamier, richer dressing add a soft mashed avocado to the dressing mixture.

Classic Mayonnaise with Flax Oil

The next doula course by Paramanadoula is 24-26 May on London.

Mayo has acquired an unhealthy reputation but if homemade from the best ingredients it is quite the opposite. It is useful for a creamy, non milk based sauce to add to pasta as well as salad dressings.

To find a doula contact www.wellmums.co.uk www.doula.org.uk www.doulas.info

1 egg yolk (from free range egg) 180mls organic flax oil 1 teaspoon mustard 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice Sprinkling of white pepper Separate the yolk from the white and put in blender. Trickle in the oil very slowly, and blend on low speed until the mayo has a creamy consistency. Add the remaining ingredients. •Penny Crowther DN Med MBANT CNHC has a nutritional therapy practice in Putney. The Putney Bridge Clinic, 265 Putney Bridge Road, London SW15 2 PT. Call 07761 768 754 or see www.nutritionistlondon.co.uk for more information. Please note the information in this article is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have a medical condition and/or are taking medication, check with your health practitioner.

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NCT Kensington & Chelsea family yoga

The Osteopathic Centre for Children

New family yoga for toddlers aged 1- 4 years and parents. The eight-week course takes place on Fridays, 10am to 11am, in Earl’s Court.

The Osteopathic Centre for Children is a charity, founded in 1991, that seeks to ensure that paediatric osteopathy – a gentle, effective and environmentalfriendly treatment – is established as an option for parents and carers concerned for their child’s health. We run a full-time clinic in Wandsworth, London, where we welcome mums and mums-tobe, babies, children and teenagers. www.occ.uk.com 22a Point Pleasant London SW18 1GG 020 8875 5290

A lively family class that will provide you with a great chance to bond with your child. Teachers will bring along props such as scarves, feathers, plastic rings and balls. And of course there’ll be a chance for some quiet and relaxing practice towards the end! The class will be tailored to the ages of the children and will be a very informal and relaxed atmosphere – suitable for toddlers and children of all abilities and temperaments. Finishes just in time to head to the Bumps & Babies group at the Maggie and Rose Family Club (free entry). You are welcome to join afterwards for a hot drink and lunch. Earl's Court Health & Wellbeing Centre. The mezzanine room, 2b Hogarth Road, Earl’s Court SW5 0PT. Fridays 10am-11am, 27 April – 18 May. £85 toddlersnctkensington@yahoo.co.uk or 0844 243 0007.

Fevers in babies

What can I do if my child has a temperature?

By Alexandra Redpath, Senior Nurse Trainer RGN RSCN ENP PGCE ALS APLS GIC Instructor

A temperature can make a baby or a child uncomfortable, irritable, off feeds and difficult to settle. • Give the child regular paracetamol or ibuprofen. They help to lower the temperature rather than treat the cause; they do not mask symptoms and are effective for 4 hours, after which the temperature will return. They can be given in alternation to give you 24hours cover. It is worth waking a baby to give during the night so they get a good night’s sleep. • Remove layers of clothes from the child, thin layers of clothing is better. • Their feet and hands are often cold when they are unwell, this is expected. • Ensure that the room is at between 19-21oC. • Offer them regular cool drinks throughout the day to prevent dehydration. • Do not cold sponge or use cold baths as this can make the child too cold and be distressing. • A direct fan is not encouraged, however may reduce the temperature of the room. • Keep your baby or child away from daycare/nursery/school until they are better.

Fevers are common in babies and young children. Normal body temperature is between 36oC and 37oC. Temperatures can be measured using an ear thermometer, under the arm or using a forehead thermometer strip. Be consistent: use same type of thermometer with same hand to same surface or you will get multiple readings. ᭏ ᭏ ᭏ ᭏ ᭏ ᭏ ᭏

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

Causes of temperature A temperature in a baby can be caused by too many clothes, post immunisations, during teething or overheating. Viral illness (colds, cough, flu and diarrhoea) can also cause your baby’s temperature to rise. Viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics, just rest and take medicines like paracetamol and ibuprofen. Less common cause is bacterial infections (pneumonia, urine and kidney infections, septicaemia and meningitis) which can be more serious and require antibiotics.

When to get help You should seek medical attention if your child still has a temperature after 3-4 days and does not seem to be improving. You should seek medical attention if you suspect your child is becoming dehydrated. Signs of dehydration include dry tongue, fewer wet nappies and lethargy. If a child has a serious infection they usually get worse despite efforts to bring their temperature down. Young children and babies can have a febrile convulsion if they become too hot to quickly. REDI Training: Teaching you to be Ready for Emergencies through Demonstration and Instruction. 020 7348 7117 www.redi-training.co.uk

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Bambino Merino showroom now open Local natural baby wear company Bambino Merino recently opened a showroom opposite Wandsworth Park. With so many parents enjoying the facilities in the park, it’s an ideal location to showcase their range of natural merino baby wear. Director Rochelle Milligan says “Whilst customers can learn about the benefits of dressing their babies in merino from reviews and the information on our website, many are surprised at the softness of our garments and how well they regulate body temperature. Opening the showroom gives local customers the opportunity to browse and try before they buy.” Showroom visitors enjoy reduced prices and special offers not available online, making it worthwhile dropping in next time you’re passing. Bambino Merino, 213 Putney Bridge Road, SW15 2NY. Phone 020 8877 1111. www.bambinomerino.com

Bambino Merino Showroom

Exclusive offer for Families SW readers: £10 off orders over £50 until 30th April. Quote code fswten online or in store (excludes clearance items).

Put yourself in control of your birth experience By Mary Grace Anderson

One-stop website to find childcare

TotalCareOnline is a national online resource listing childcare, elderly care, disability and respite care jobs as well as carers, agencies and support services across the UK. The site also includes interview tips and advice for those looking for carers. Making the TotalCareOnline site easy to use was a priority for Kath who understands that some people can still find online searches rather daunting. “I have spent a lot of time making sure people can access what they need simply and quickly”, she says. TotalCareOnline.co.uk is free for families and job seekers to use although they can upgrade to paid-for packages. The site is currently offering a free 90 day trial for subscribers.

To achieve a better birth, you can prepare yourself with simple but specific relaxation, self hypnosis and visualization techniques. Hypnobirthing is a way of training the mother to overcome the physical, mental and emotional obstacles to a successful and pain-free childbirth experience. Several techniques are used which incorporate learning self-hypnosis for deep relaxation, focusing on the positive aspects of childbirth, and creating a natural anesthesia though the power of your own mind. The advantages are fantastic for before AND after childbirth because you can use the skills for the rest of your life. It allows you to discover and experience the joy of birth, which is unique to you. What is involved? Hypnobirthing teaches you the different levels of a waking trance state, which will allow you to be able to talk, move, have your eyes opened but be relaxed and in control. You'll always be aware of what is happening to you, and around you. This is preparing for birth so you experience a calm, relaxing, comfortable and positive birth. The benefits? Women who are calm and have positive expectations of their birthing tend to experience less pain. Fear creates tension, and tension causes muscles to tighten, causing a more difficult labour. When women are relaxed and work with their bodies, they have less or no pain, more effective contractions and therefore a shorter labour. •Hypnobirthing at The Putney Clinic with MG Hypnosis, DCH, DHP, H-CBT, CNHC, NGH, GHR Reg 07931 547414 mghypnosis@aol.com www.mghypnosis.co.uk ROBIN FARQUHAR-THOMSON Wonderful Pictures of Children

020 8788 3029 info@willownannies.co.uk |www.willownannies.co.uk robinft.co.uk 020 7350 0312 info@robinft.co.uk

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feature

A little bit of time for you

Is a relaxing holiday with a baby/toddler possible?

By Serena Forbes MBAcC

Feeling the stresses of being a parent and putting yourself second.... It is so easy to keep going, one often forgets to have a few quiet moments to oneself. Our body is always talking to us, but we are often too busy to listen, or too selfless to put ourselves first. In these circumstances we can get tired, impatient with those around us, and sometimes sick too. We create an obstruction from happiness because we have not taken the time to balance, calm and care for ourselves. Spring is here; days are getting lighter, the temperature warmer and nature’s beginning to bloom. This is the time of year when one’s body should be feeling more energised and new ideas and plans should start to form in one’s mind and heart. Perhaps you have done too much over those winter months, not rested adequately or have been ill and are not feeling in tune with the spring season yet. A regular acupuncture treatment can help bring the body back into balance in an often chaotic life. It helps you get that ‘me time’ you deserve and need in order to bring one into harmony with the seasons Through working with the flow of the body’s energy, moving blockages and nourishing deficiencies, acupuncture can help one become healthy, balanced, and full of energy. It can help you find the energy to make changes that increase the quality of your life.

Rita of Mum and Baby Experience says definitely yes! “Just ask some of our guests who have been on the mum and baby experience in Tuscany. Isabel Choat commented “It has been the most relaxing break since becoming a mum by a long shot”.

Acupuncture may be able to help with: • Insomnia • Anxiety/ Stress • Menstrual problems • Infertility • Turning breech presentations • Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy • Post-natal depression • Menopausal symptoms • Digestive complaints • Tiredness • Coughs and colds • Hay fever • Headaches/ Migraines • Backache • Sciatica • Muscular pains • Seasonal Adjustment Disorder (SAD disorder) Whether you have any of the above conditions or just feel like you need a moment to yourself, Acupuncture is worth a try. It is a preventative medicine and the results of a regular treatment can do wonders to one’s life, health, energy and joie de vivre. Serena Forbes BA (Hons), BSc (Hons), Lic Tui Na, MBAcC is a practicing acupuncturist in South London and fully qualified member of the British Acupuncture Council. Contact: serenaforbes@hotmail.com 07786 473 746

The Mum and Baby yoga and cooking break takes place in Caprese Michelangelo, Eastern Tuscany and caters for babies/toddlers from 3 months to 4 years. After having worked in the travel industry for 18 years and having renovated our Tuscan house with love and attention to detail and safety, I had the idea of turning Casa Alessia (named after my daughter) into a fun retreat for mums and babies (dads welcome too!). The perfect place to relax, cook and do some yoga. Especially as your little ones are entertained and cared for in the garden while you are doing the classes. After a morning yoga session, Breakfast is served, fresh smoothies, fruit salad, homemade muesli, cake, all eaten on the terrace, while soaking up the view of Lago di Montedoglio below and the Appenine mountains. Lizards flit among the old stones, birds sing and a gentle breeze ensures it never feels too hot. In the afternoon Fernanda and Giovanna show you how to make some wonderful local specialities such as Gnocchi al tartuffo (gnocchi with truffle sauce), zuppa di farro (spelt soup) and tirimisu. The pizza is made by Giovanna, the local pizzeria owner, using our outside wood burning traditional oven. Mums and toddlers have a go too, and find it is not as easy as it looks, but have fun stretching the dough and throwing it up in the air. Some of our guests have said it is the best pizza they have tasted, Giovanna’s version, not their own. A visit to Italy would not be complete without stocking up on local specialities in the nearby market in Medieval Anghiari. There are plenty of stalls selling pancetta, salami, aged parmesan and truffle oil at the fraction of English prices. Our market visit is followed by a delicious lunch at our local olive mill together with the Ravagni family who own it. Nonna Ravagni makes a big fuss of the children and makes them her special ‘pappa’. Prices include accommodation, all food with wine, massage, airport transfers, excursion to Anghiari, all classes and babysitting during classes. Fitness breaks and weekly rentals of Casa Alessia also available. For further details see www.mum-andbaby-experience.co.uk or contact Rita Kobrak 0778 5571292.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

directory HEALTH SERVICES Affordable Acupuncture 07934 252028 www.affordableacupuncture.org.uk Trying for a baby? Affordable Acupuncture can help with fertility & pregnancy issues. £20 per session, in Thurleigh Rd Practice, Balham. BirthConfidence 07718 629445 www.birthconfidence.com Natal Hypnotherapy workshops now running in Wimbledon. Using hypnosis and other techniques to conquer fear, increase confidence in giving birth. Clapham Family Osteopath 07779 017965 www.claphamfamilyosteopath.co.uk Gentle, effective osteopathic treatment helps your baby thrive by helping them recover from birth and thereby express their true health. Essential Acupuncture 07917 007800. www.essential-acupuncture.co.uk Acupuncturist and aromatherapist specialising in women's healthcare, fertility and pregnancy. British Acupuncture Council member. Fulham Osteopaths 769 Fulham Road, SW6 5HA www.fulhamosteopaths.co.uk Fulham Osteopaths have been providing care for the youngest to the oldest members of the family since 1989. They specialise in cranial osteopathic check ups for newborns & toddlers, advice on flat head syndrome, growing pains, posture, through to “maternity care” to ease away annoying aches & pains, and to support wellbeing during & after pregnancy. Not sure if they can help you or your child? Call them on 020 7384 1851 for informal chat with one of their osteopaths. Families’ Readers Offer, quote FO2012 when booking & receive a £15 discount off your first appointment.

PRODUCTS/CLOTHES Back-2-Nature Bodycare Ltd www.back2naturebodycare.com Natural Handmade Bodycare products. Made with the finest ingredients. Body butters, Bath bombs, Soaps, Eco cleaning & more... 10%OFF!! The Little Legs Company 020 7223 9041 www.thelittlelegscompany.com Independent children's clothing retailer with a penchant for uncovering emerging UK designers. Online or visit pop up shop on Northcote Road, SW11. Renew 07757 867 515 www.renewitall.co.uk Kim Dean Tailor/Clothing Up Cycler Save cash & time & revamp what’s in your wardrobe!

CLUB FOR FAMILIES Cupcake, Parsons Green 020 3326 4986 and Putney 020 8875 1065 www.cupcakemum.com Cupcake is a club for families, from the first scan through to the first days of school. Members enjoy free classes and seminars in a warm, stylish and welcoming environment. Classes include Pilates, yoga, antenatal and postnatal fitness classes, wellbeing classes, seminars and award-winning children’s classes. Cupcake is located in Parsons Green and Putney and is designed to suit family life - whether you are planning your first baby, or you are an old hand at managing the adventures parenting brings - you can cherish the moments together at Cupcake. Ring us today to join.

HypnoBirthing London 07876 251 582 or 0208 704 1852 www.hypnobirthinglondon.co Returning Birth to a calm, beautiful, peaceful experience. Group and private antenatal classes, marta@hypnobirthinglondon.co Join the blessed mothers and blissed babies. Lisa Barnwell Pregnancy & Early Postnatal Care 020 7751 4170 www.lisabarnwell.co.uk Feel great with expert, bespoke Home Pregnancy Massage & Early Postnatal Reflexology, trusted and chosen by Chelsea & Westminster Hospital. Lucy Pilkington, Wellmums 07973 784503 www.wellmums.co.uk Give birth with confidence. Feel nurtured, empowered and supported. Prepare for labour using relaxing pregnancy treatments, become birth fit and enjoy the whole journey. Lucy, experienced doula, reflexologist and massage therapist can help you before during and after the birth of your baby. Physio for All Battersea 020 7228 2141 Chelsea 020 737 0050 www.physio4all.com From our Chelsea and Battersea clinics the physiotherapy and osteopathy teams provide specialized baby and child therapy. Cranial osteopathy is a gentle and safe technique for helping babies who might be suffering from birth trauma, colic, poor sleep, crying and feeding difficulties. Few sessions often produce very beneficial results. You may be concerned about your baby‘s flat head, late walking, flat feet, clumsiness…Our orthopedic and motor developmental physiotherapists will assess and provide tips and advices. Don’t worry and don’t be afraid to ask expert help to get your child to his best potential! Physio for All -20 years of experience- recommended by leading pediatricians.

Shiny Happy Babies 07531 489010 www.shiny-happy-babies.co.uk Baby massage courses, babycare workshops, first aid courses and postnatal support providing practical advice and skills for new parents. The Baby Yoga Company 0780 8586 153 www.thebabyyogacompany.com Come along and enhance your baby's mental and physical development while doing some yoga. Baby Yoga classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. £8 per class or £10 for a drop-in. whYoga 01372 459 400 www.whYoga.com Established Pre and Post-Natal Yoga in Balham Library on Monday evening and Earlsfield Library on Wednesday evening with whYoga. Classes are held by whYoga founder Vicky Oliver RYT500, natural birth advocate, researcher and experienced yoga teacher. The classes are informed by cutting edge physiological examination and Vicky's own experience of practicing and teaching yoga during three pregnancies. The strength, stamina and mental focus fostered by a whYoga practice are powerful tools that an expectant mother can use to facilitate a joyful birth. For extra support Vicky offers partner birth workshops and pregnancy yoga teacher training for yoga teachers, recognised by the Yoga Alliance. Yoga Mama 020 8789 3881 www.yogamama.co.uk Mum and baby yoga classes 10.40am every Thursday at the Putney Clinic, upper Richmond. Come and meet other mums whilst doing yoga with your baby.

NANNY & CHILDCARE Abbeville Nannies 020 76273352

www.bluewaveswim.co.uk Swimming lessons for all ages, including lessons for babies and toddlers. Thursdays and Saturdays in SW17 & SW19. From September 2012, also on Mondays.

www.abbevillenannies.co.uk Nanny agency based in Clapham run by two local mothers, established 10 years. We offer permanent and temporary daily nannies with extensive baby experience as well as maternity nurses, night nannies and mothers helps. Part time and full time nannies are available, hours tailored to suit your needs. Abbeville Nannies was established in 2001 and offers a professional and friendly service for families based in the South West and South East London areas. Abbeville Nannies are the most established agency in the area.

www.bootcamppilates.com Mother & Baby Classes. Every Friday at 11am in Fulham. We're taking the hassle out of looking for care and inviting you to bring your baby along to the class. Buggyfit Putney, Wandsworth and Tooting Common 07779 271655 www.buggyfit.com Get fit, get in shape with Buggyfit. Twice a week for baby and you with qualified post natal instructor. Drop ins welcome.

Monkey Music 01582 766464 www.monkeymusic.co.uk Monkey Music Nurture your child’s love of music right from the start! “Sharing a song is precious time spent together and makes your baby feel loved and secure”. Monkey Music offers an award winning specialist curriculum for babies from 3 months old. Research has shown that early exposure to singing, listening and playing music really does benefit early developmental progression! Our classes are specifically designed to stimulate your baby in a musical and sensory environment with fascinating sounds and absorbing activities and it’s a wonderful way of making new friends too. Come along and join us to try a complimentary class in one of our many venues across South West London. Call 020 8764 5185 or see our advert for further details.

MUM OR BABY CLASSES Blue Wave Swim School 07764615047

Bootcamp Pilates Mum & Baby Classes

MARCIA HUGALL, OSTEOPATH BSc (Hons) Ost, MSc Paediatric Ost. Member of the Cranial Academy of America ASPEN OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE 0208 670 6979, AND RECENTRE HEALTH, BALHAM 020 8672 4455. www.marciahugallosteopath.co.uk Marcia has trained at the Osteopathic Centre for Children, Foundation for Paediatric Osteopathy and uses gentle cranial osteopathic techniques in the treatment of babies and children. She also treats pregnant and post partum mothers as well as all types of musculoskeletal and sporting injuries, Based at ASPEN OSTEOPATHIC PRACTICE 86 Wolfington Road, West Norwood, SE27 0RQ and at ReCentre Health, 260 Balham High Road, Balham SW17 7AN

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MG Hypnosis 07931 547414 www.mghypnosis.co.uk Offering hypnobirthing, smoking cessation, weight management, manage stress and eliminate anxiety, phobias, increase confidence, self esteem. Adults and children 7+. See Website. Serena Forbes Acupuncture 07786 473 746 www.serenaforbes.com Acupuncture for menstrual disorders, infertility, post-natal depression, digestive disorders, colds, hay fever, pains, urinary tract infections and many other complaints... SUE LEWIS M.C.S.P S.R.P Women's Health Physiotherapist www.suelewisantenatal.co.uk Running Ante-Natal, Post-Natal and Pelvic-Core Pilates classes in Wimbledon (with creche) Private 1:1 appointments for pregnancy or gynaecological problems. The Beaumont Osteopathic Practice 020 7223 7171 www.osteopathy4health.co.uk Cranial osteopathic care for your baby giving them a happy, healthy start to life. Call now to make an appointment.

Latino Bambino 07961 838349 www.latinobambino.co.uk Lively and unique post-natal Salsa fitness workout where mums wear their babies (six weeks old and up) in carriers or slings. Babies are part of the workout and very much involved in helping their mums losing the pregnancy weight, tone up and burn calories in a sociable fiesta atmosphere. Toddler classes for ages 1-4 full of Latin/Tropical rhythms enriched with props have been designed to build confidence; develop motor skills, coordination and balance. From goo-goo, ga-ga to cha cha cha! Latino Bambino also offers fun and affordable dance entertainment for Children’s Birthday Parties for ages 2-5. Call 07961 838349 for more info. Little Signers Club 07823 336487 www.littlesignersclub.co.uk Baby signing fun for you and your little one! Call us now for classes in Balham, Battersea & Clapham.

After School Nannies 020 8871 2211 www.afterschoolnannies.com After school/holiday childcare across South West London for working parents or those just needing an extra pair of hands. Like Minders 0844 879 7189 www.likeminders.co.uk Babysitting and Ad Hoc childcare throughout London. Trustworthy, flexible and reliable service. All childcarers CRB checked and personally interviewed. Willow Nannies & Maternity 020 8788 3029 www.willownannies.co.uk A small, approachable agency providing a personal, affordable, bespoke service to families looking for a nanny or maternity nurse. 10% Discount.

MUM HOLIDAYS

Mum and Baby holidays 07785 571292 www.mum-and-baby-experience.co.uk Fitness and fun under the Tuscan sun. Mum and baby/toddler cooking and yoga holidays in Tuscany . From 3 months - 4 years.

Health

Bad posture and what parents can do By Melinda Cotton

Concerned parents often complain about their children’s posture. They often feel something is wrong about the way their child stands, or how they sit doing their homework. Parents naturally want to protect their children, and help them develop good posture, because they don’t want them to suffer from back problems either now or in the future. These days there is much talk about “ergonomics” but how does it relate to your child? Ergonomics is all about adapting our physical environment so that it “fits” us, so that our bodies are comfortable and can work without unreasonable strain, rather than the opposite way around, where we adapt or “fit” ourselves to our furniture and work environment. Ergonomics is rooted in common sense, and with a few tips parents can make a real difference to their child’s sitting posture. Have a look at photo 1; this is an example of a child “fitting” themselves to their desk. Look at the child’s back, look at their arm, and look at their neck…. Ahhh! Everything is wrong with this child’s desk setup!

How can I help my child sit well? Start with the following two easy steps. 1. Taking a photo of your child from the side sitting at their desk when they are not looking. 2. Look at the photo. Does anything strike you as being wrong or in need of attention? For a child to sit well with a “straight back”, it is vital to get correct relationship between their arms and the desk. This may mean changing or adjusting their chair, or adding a cushion. Ask your child to relax their shoulders and bend their elbows to 90 degrees; in this position your child’s arms should then be able to rest on the front of the desk. Is their desk is too high, just right or too low? The most common issue is that a desk is too high. If this is the case, then your child’s seat will need to be raised either by adjusting the seat height or adding an appropriate cushion. If the desk is too low, the desk will need to be raised. Your child may have grown out of their desk, and it is time to change it, or you may be able to adjust the desk by putting some blocks under its feet. Occasionally when a desk it too low, the chair needs to be lowered, but this is rarely the case.

This position will be your guide to making all other changes. To help avoid wrist and shoulder strain, wrists should ideally rest on the front edge of the desk, with the keyboard accessible from this position. The keyboard should be flat, look to see if there are little fold up feet at the back you can fold back in. To minimise strain from using a mouse, place it close to the front of the desk, with your child’s elbow as near to their waist as possible.

Fitting the desk

Next - Are your child’s feet on the ground? If they are dangling it is impossible for your child to sit with a straight back for any significant period of time, because their back muscles will quickly fatigue. Your child’s feet must be on the ground or supported by a footrest. You may want to buy a footrest, but in many homes there is something that you could use to improvise with. The angle behind your child’s knees should be at least 90 degrees. If it is less than this, it is a sign that your child’s chair is too low, or their footrest is too high. Correct monitor height and position help reduce neck and eye strain. The monitor height should be neither too high nor too low. If your child has to tip their neck to look up, the monitor is too high. If they have to tip their neck down the monitor is too low. Your child should be more or less looking straight ahead. It is important that the monitor is not too close to your child’s eyes, as a rough guide, it should be at least an arm’s length away from them.

Correct position

A low monitor is easily adjusted by something under it. Finally - Take a photo and compare it with the first. Are you happy or are some more tweaks required? Now look at picture 2. When a child’s desk set up is correct it supports good sitting posture, and a child will naturally sit well. They don’t need encouragement, it just happens! © Melinda Cotton 2012. Consultant Osteopath at Fulham Osteopaths, SW6 5HA www.fop.co.uk 020 7384 1851.

Remember, your child needs to relax their shoulders, and bend their elbows to 90 degrees.

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Playgroups listing

Playgroups, parent-and-toddler groups and pre-school drop-in sessions, Part 2 Compiled by Joanna Parry

See www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/playgroups to see the full list of playgroups!

SW1

SW2

Just for Dads Marsham Street Children's Centre (Westminster), 121 Marsham Street, SW1T 4LX Tel 020 7828 4083 www.westminster.gov.uk/services/ed ucationandlearning Open First Saturday of every month 10.30-11.30am at Pimlico Library, Rampayne Street, SW1V 2PU. 2nd Saturday of each month 10am-12pm at Marsham Street Children’s Centre, ages 0-5 No fee

Hillside One O'Clock Club Hillside Gardens, Hillside Road, Streatham Hill, SW2 3HJ Tel 020 8678 0698 www.lambeth.gov.uk Open Monday to Friday, 1-4.30pm, all year round Fee £1

Napier Hall Toddler’s Group Napier Hall, 1 Hide Place, Corner Vincent Street, SW1P 4NJ Email harper.terry@gmail.com Open Thursdays 3-4.30pm all year round, ages 0-5 No fee but donation on the door Buckaroochies Westminster Chapel, Buckingham Gate, SW1E 6BS Tel 020 7834 1731 office@westminsterchapel.org.uk westminsterchapel.org.uk/ministries/ children/buckaroochies.php Open Wednesdays during term time 10-11.30am. Fee £25 per family PER TERM. They are oversubscribed so call first – you might have to join the waiting list!

Brixton Tate Library Storytimes Brixton Oval, Lambeth, SW2 Tel 020 7926 1056 brixtonlibrary@lambeth.gov.uk Open Tuesdays 10.30am-12pm, term time only. Ages 0-5. Fee 50p Under 5s Parents and Baby Storytime All Saints Church, 250 Lyham Road (just off New Park Road), Brixton Hill, Brixton, SW2 5NT Tel Mariam 07985 383107 Email msmariamb@yahoo.co.uk Open Wednesday mornings 9.30am12pm during term times (they are open for some half terms and a few weeks during summer break – call for more info). Ages 0-5. No fee but please bring a piece of fruit for your child

SW3

SW6

Chelsea Open Air Nursery School and Children’s Centre 51 Glebe Place, SW3 5JE Tel 020 7352 8374 info@coans.rbkc.sch.uk www.chelseaopenairnursery.co.uk Open Stay-and-Play, ages 0-3, Wednesdays 9.15-10.45am and 1.152.45pm, term-time only No fee

Tiny Tunes St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Terrace, SW6 7JS Tel 07841 668171 www.stpetersfulham.co.uk Open Thursdays during term time, 10.15-11am

SW4 Baby Bright Playgroup Old Choir Vestry, St Barnabus Church, Clapham Common Northside, SW4 9SW Tel 0207 978 4109 / 07900 825422 manager Irmela Hopkins irmelahopkins@yahoo.co.uk Open Mondays-Fridays 10am-12pm. Limited number of 14 children with their mothers or carers. Ages 18-30 months. No drop-in – parents must sign up for the term. Fees for a term £121. Clapham Common One O'Clock Club Windmill Drive, SW4 9DE Tel 020 8673 5736 www.lambeth.gov.uk Open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 12.30-3.30pm, all year round No fee Play Time at St Paul's St Paul's Community Centre, St Paul's Church, Rectory Grove, SW4 0DX Tel 020 7622 2128 admin@stpaulssw4.org www.stpaulssw4.org/children Open Thursday mornings 10.3011.45am. Under 3s only. Fee £2.50 per child, £3 for 2 children Clapham Library Parent and Toddler Group 1 Northside, Clapham Common, SW4 0QW Tel 020 7926 0717 Website libraries@lambeth.gov.uk Open Tuesdays 10.30am-12pm. Max 44 children, first come first served. Fee 50p Clapham Library Storytime 1 Northside, Clapham Common, SW4 0QW Tel 020 7926 0717 Website libraries@lambeth.gov.uk Open Fridays 10.30-11.15am. Max 44 children, first come first served. No fee

Amica at Worlds End under 5’s playgroup

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Mumbies St Dionis Church Hall, Parsons Green Lane, Fulham, SW6 Tel Lisa Leaf 07956 931 929 www.stdionis.org.uk/midweek/ mumbies Open Tuesday mornings 10-11.30am during term time No fee Fulham Palace Family Centre Palace Playground, Bishop's Avenue, SW6 6ES Tel 020 7371 9297 / 07540 914 628 bishopsparkcc@pre-school.org.uk www.lbhf.gov.uk Open Monday 10am-12pm Messy Play, 3-4.30pm Stay and Play with Twins Club; Tuesday 10am-12pm Physical Play, 2.30-4pm Baby Group; Wednesday 10am-12pm Creative Play, 1-3pm Creative Art, 1-4pm Gardening, 3.30-4.30pm Physical Play; Thursday 10am-12pm Gardening Play; Friday 10am-12pm Stay and Play; Saturday 10am-12pm Father’s Club. Ages 0-5. Fee £3 per family per session

SW7 Bumps & Babies at Gymboree, South Kensington Gymboree, Lower ground floor, Baden Powell House, 65-67 Queen's Gate, SW7 5JS Tel 0844 243 0007 www.nct.org.uk bandbnctkensington@yahoo.co.uk Open Tuesdays 12.30-1.45pm, ages 0 to pre-school age. No fee, donations gratefully received

SW8 Springfield Community Flat Toddler Group Brocket House, Flat 53/4 Union Road, Lambeth, SW8 2RE Tel 020 7720 2699 admin@springfieldcommunityflat.com Open Thursdays 1.30-3.00pm, term time only No fee

page 18

Playgroups listing Heathbrook Park One O'clock Centre Heathbrook Park, St Rule Street, SW8 3EH Tel 020 8871 7827 / 8871 8821 streversh@wandsworth.gov.uk www.wandsworth.gov.uk Open Monday to Friday 1-3.30pm, ages 0-5 No fee Yvonne Carr Children's Centre 2 Thessaly Road, Nine Elms, SW8 4HT Tel 020 7720 5515 www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fis Open Stay and Play Mondays 10am12pm and Wednesdays 1-3pm; Music and Story Time Fridays 11.30am12.30pm. Ages 0-5. Dads Stay and Play, first Saturday of each month 10am-12pm, ages 0-8 No fee

SW9 Clapham Playgroup St John the Evangelist Church Hall, Clapham Road, SW9 0JJ Tel 020 7274 6693 claphamplaygroup@gmail.com Open Wednesdays 10am-12pm, babies and toddlers only Donation £2 per child, £3 family

Loughborough Centre One O'clock Club Moorlands Road, SW9 AU Tel 020 7737 1009 www.lambeth.gov.uk Open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 12.30- 3.30pm No fee Slade Gardens One O'clock Club Robsart Street, SW9 0BU Tel 020 7733 3630 www.lambeth.gov.uk Open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 12.30 to 3.30pm

SW10 World's End Under Fives Centre 18 Blantyre Street, World's End Estate, SW10 0DS Tel 020 7351 5871 worldsend@under5centre.fsnet.co.uk www.rbkc.gov.uk Open Monday to Friday 9.30am11.45pm, all year round, ages 0-5 No fee

Alex and Mia at Worlds End under 5’s playgroup

SW11

SW13

Battersea Bumps and Babes St Michael’s Church (main entrance), Cobham Close, SW11 6HR nctbumpsbabes@gmail.com www.nct.org.uk Open Mondays 10-11.30am. Pregnant mums and under ones Donation £2

Mummy Matters Castelnau Community Centre, 7 Stillingfleet Road, Barnes, SW13 9AQ Tel 020 8741 6526 Philippa Marshall www.castelnaucentreproject.co.uk Open Mondays 11am-1pm, for precrawling babies No fee

Bolingbroke One O'clock Children’s Centre Chivalry Road, Wandsworth Common, SW11 1HT Tel 020 7228 6674 streversh@wandsworth.gov.uk www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fis Open Monday to Friday 1-3.30pm, ages 0-5 No fee

Kitson Kids Kitson Hall, Kitson Road, Barnes, SW13 9HJ natalie1972@hotmail.co.uk www.stmarybarnes.org/kitsonhall Open Tuesdays 10-11.30am, ages 0-4 Fee £5 per family

SW12 Balham Community Centre Coffee & Chat, Baby and Toddler Group Balham Community Centre, 91 Bedford Hill, Balham, SW12 9HE Tel 020 8675 4800 / 07514 983725 jackiebcc@btconnect.com www.balhamcommunitycentre.org Open Tuesdays during term time 1011.30am, ages 0-3 Fee £2

Shene Fitness Centre Toddlers Club Richmond Park Academy, Park Avenue, East Sheen SW14 8AT Tel 020 8090 9630 leisure@richmond.gov.uk www.richmond.gov.uk/shene_sports _fitness_centre Open Tuesdays and Thursdays 1011.30am, ages 0-4 Fee £4.20 for Leisure Card holders, £4.60 for non-card holders. Siblings £2

Happy Mondays Parent and Toddler Group St Stephens Church, Weir Road, London, SW12 0NU Tel 020 8675 5086 office@stwss.org.uk www.stwss.org.uk Open Mondays 3-5pm, for preschool age children Fee £2 for first child, 50p for siblings over one

Teddy’s Mother and Baby Group St Mary Magdalen's RC Church Hall, 61 North Worple Way, Mortlake, SW14 8PR Tel 020 8876 6521 / 0208 876 1326 info@stmarymags.org.uk www.stmarymags.org.uk Open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 10.30am-12.30pm Fee £4

Triangle One O'clock Children's Centre 366 Cavendish Road, Balham, SW12 0PP Tel 020 8673 4106 streversh@wandsworth.gov.uk www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fis Open Monday to Friday 1-4pm, ages 0-5 No fee

SW15

SW14

London Mums Playgroup Eddie Catz Putney, 68-70 Putney High Street, SW15 1SF info@londonmumsmagazine.com www.londonmumsmagazine.com Open Mondays 4.30-5.30pm, ages 0-8, drop in Fee £6.50 per session, or pay for whole term in advance = equivalent of £4 per session. Includes free play at Eddie Catz. Babies under 7 months free. 30% siblings discount

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Playgroups listing Alton Parent and Toddler Group Alton Children's Centre, Ellisfield Drive, SW15 4DR Tel 020 8789 7881 rblal@wandsworth.gov.uk www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fis Open Mondays to Fridays 9.30am11.30am, ages 0-5 No fee St Margaret’s Baby and Toddler Group St Margaret's Church Hall, Putney Park Lane, SW15 5HU Tel 020 8876 7490 Sarah Watts toddlergroupstmargaret@gmail.com www.stmargaretsputney.org.uk Open Fridays 3-5pm during term time, ages 0-4 but older siblings welcome Fee £2 per family

SW16 Little Fishes St. James Church Centre, Mitcham Lane, Streatham, SW16 6NT www.mlbc.org.uk/wo-children.htm Open Thursdays 10-11.30am, for pre-school age children Fee £1 per family Parent and Child Group The Waldorf School of South West London, Streatham Methodist Church, Riggindale Road, London SW16 1QH Tel 020 8671 6846 info@waldorf-swlondon.org www.waldorf-swlondon.org Open - Indoor sessions Mondays and Tuesdays 1-3pm in the church, term time only. Ages 0-3.5. Outdoor session Tuesdays 10am-12pm, term time only. Meet at Tooting Bec Lido car park. Ages 0-3.5. No booking needed, but please telephone the school before leaving home to confirm the session will be held. Fee £5 per family per session

SW17 Garratt Park One o'clock Centre Siward Road, Earlsfield, SW17 0LA Tel 020 8946 0366 kkettell@wandsworth.gov.uk www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fis Open Monday – Friday 1.30-4pm, open all year round, age 0-5 No fee Furzedown Parent and Toddler Group Furzedown Family Centre, Upper Graveney School, Welham Road, Tooting, SW17 9BU Tel 020 8672 6924 info@furzedownfamilycentre.org.uk www.furzedownfamilycentre.org.uk Open Monday – Friday 9.3011.30am, age 0-2 Fee £2.50 Rompers Trinity Road Chapel, 205 Trinity Road, Tooting, SW17 7HW admin@trinityroadchapel.org www.trinityroadchapel.org/ministries /children Open Tuesday mornings 1011.30am, ages 0-5. Call before you come to join the group as there may be a waiting list Fee £1

St. Michael's Steiner School Parent and Child Group – drop in group St Michael Steiner School Centre for Early Childhood, Open Door Community Centre, Beaumont Road, Southfields Tel 020 8870 0500 info@stmichaelsteinerschool.co.uk stmichaelsteiner.mattottewill.com Open Wednesday afternoons 23.30pm, drop in Ring school to confirm attendance at this session on a week-by-week basis Coronation Gardens One O'Clock Centre Pirbright Road, Southfields, SW18 5NB Tel 020 8874 3975 yolayiwola@wandsworth.gov.uk www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fis Open Monday – Friday 1-3.30pm, age 0-5 No fee

SW19

SW18

Colour House Toddler Group The Colour House Theatre, Merton Abbey Mills, SW19 2RD Tel 020 8542 5511 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk/main website/childrenstheatre Open Friday mornings 10-11.30am, ages 0-5 Fee £5 for adult and toddler, £2 per sibling, under 1s free

St. Michael's Steiner School Parent and Child Group – book in advance 5 Merton Road, Wandsworth, SW18 5ST Tel 020 8870 0500 info@stmichaelsteinerschool.co.uk stmichaelsteiner.mattottewill.com Open Friday mornings 11am-12pm, book for the term Fee £42 for 6 sessions. Book in advance as places are limited.

Deen City Farm Parent & Toddler Group 39 Windsor Avenue, Merton Abbey, SW19 2RR Tel 020 8543 5300 information@deencityfarm.co.uk www.deencityfarm.co.uk Open Wednesdays during term time 10.15-12pm Fee £2.50

St Mary’s Summerstown Montessori Nursery School

Scallywags St Mary’s Parish Hall, Church Path, Merton Park, SW19 3HJ Tel Barbara 020 8542 3427 office@stmarysmerton.org.uk www.stmarysmerton.org.uk Open Tuesday mornings 10am11.30am, term time only, ages 0-4 Fee £2

SW20 St Saviour's Parent and Toddler Group St Saviour's Church Hall, Church Walk, Grand Drive, Raynes Park, SW20 9DG Tel 020 8540 2493 m.wright493@btinternet.com Open Tuesday afternoons 1-2.30pm, ages 0-3, drop-in Fee £1 Kiddywinks Carer & Toddler Group Raynes Park Methodist Church Hall, 195-205 Worple Road, Raynes Park, SW20 8ET Tel 07951 911695 kiddywinksplaygroup@gmail.com www.fsd.merton.gov.uk Open Tuesdays 9.30-11.30am, term time only, ages 0-5 Fee £2.50 per family

Although we have taken every care in preparing these listings, times and dates can change and we take no responsibility for any changes. Please check with the playgroup before you set off!

Day Nurs on er k Yu

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

St Mary’s Summerstown Montessori Nursery School situated between Earlsfield and Tooting, in a beautifully renovated church hall.

Welcoming atmosphere, excellent teaching, good Ofsted, grants available, term-time places inclusive of Ballet, Cookery, French, Music and PE. Fees reasonable, can be paid for by childcare vouchers and free entitlement grant. Contact Liz on tel : Tel: 020 8947 7359. www.stmaryssummerstownmontessori.co.uk

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

* * * * * *

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

To view call 020 8675 Limited spaces

8838

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

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Easter days out

Days out in Surrey & Kent Surrey is only about an hour’s drive away. Take a few friends and a picnic and make it a day out! For more info on Surrey visit www.FamiliesSurreyWest.co.uk and www.FamiliesSurreyEast.co.uk and download the local Families magazine!

TEN BEST Easter Egg Hunts Bocketts Farm Park 1 Young Street, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS Easter Eggstravaganza 31 March – 15 April Join the Easter Egg Hunt trail around the farm, with a chocolate treat for everyone! Eggstra fun at Bocketts Farm this Easter: Lambing - over 300 newborn lambs - plus cute chicks and cuddly bunnies in the animal handling sessions. Indoor and outdoor play plus pony rides, tractor rides, pig racing, gold panning, meet the tractor and more. Open 10am - 5.30pm. Adults and children 3+ yrs - £8.50. 2yrs - £6.95. <2s FREE. bockettsfarm.co.uk

Denbies Wine 2 Estate London Road, Dorking RH5 4DR Tel: 01306 876616 The annual Easter Egg Trail takes place daily 1-13 April, 11am-3pm, along with other Children’s Activities. Sunday, 1 April, 11am & 2pm. Punch & Judy. Traditional Family Fun. Free. Monday, 2 April,11am & 2pm ‘A Yummy Easter’ Chocolatey Easter Treat making. £5 per child. Tuesday, 3 April, 11am & 2pm. Tropical Rainforest Road Show See, handle and learn about creatures (& some furry friends) from all over the globe! £6.50 per child Tuesday, 3 April, 11.30am & 12.30pm. Teddy Bears Picnic. Includes train ride, packed lunch and story telling. £7 per bear (plus one child), £2 accompanying adults. denbies.co.uk

T he Hop Farm 3 Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PY Tel: 01622 870821 31 March-15 April – Hopper's Eggstravaganza. Daily Egg

Hunts, ‘eggciting’ activities and cute spring animals – under cover and outdoors. Also: Sing-alongs, live Puppet Shows and Farmyard Party Dances. Giant Jumping Pillows, The Magic Factory, Children’s Driving School and Pirate Cove. You can even camp at The Hop Farm! 20% discount on online tickets. thehopfarm.co.uk

Your local 4 National Trust See the National Trust website for discounts on membership online www.nationaltrust.org.uk/membership Normal admission prices apply plus a small cost for children’s activities

Polesden Lacey (NT) Great Bookham, Dorking RH5 6BD, Tel: 01372 452048 Easter Weekend Family Fun Fri 6 – Mon 9 Apr 11am-4pm The Easter Egg Trail is back! With special activities for children including face painting and storytelling. £2 per child. From Sat, 31 March – Thurs 5 Apr and Tues 10 – Sun 15 April, 11am4pm The Easter Family Trail keeps the little ones busy. £1 per trail.

Surrey Hills (EAST) (NT) Estate office, near Dorking, Tel: 01372 220644 Children to be accompanied on these trails. They are all self-guided and everyone gets a chocolate prize! Booking not required. Easter egg trail – Reigate Hill Friday, 6 April, 10am–3pm Hunt for clues around Reigate Hill and Gatton Park. £2 per trail guide, from Wray Lane CP, Reigate Hill, off junction 8 M25. Tel: 01342 843225. Easter egg trail – Holmwood Common Saturday, 7 April, from 1-4pm Hunt for clues around Holmwood Common. £2 per trail guide Start at St Johns Church, Willow Green,

Holmwood. Tel: 01306 712711. Egg-olympics – Leith Hill Sunday, 8 April, 2-4pm Bring your own boiled egg (BYOBE) for the great egg rolling contest and other eggy activities. Refreshments from Leith Hill Tower Servery. Free Meet: Leith Hill Tower. Best car park for buggy access is Starveal Corner car park on Abinger Road. Tel: 01306 712711. Easter egg trail – Box Hill Sun-Mon, 8-9 April, 10am-3pm £2 per trail guide. Trail guide from outside the National Trust shop on Box Hill. Tel: 01306 742809.

Clandon Park West Clandon, Guildford, Tel: 01483 222482 Easter Egg Trails Fri & Sat 6-7 April, 11am-3.30pm. Easter themed trail with riddles and clues around the garden. £2 per child Make and do Sun, 1 April – Sun, 15 April, 11am-4pm Simple Easter and Spring themed arts and crafts activities for children. Pony Magic, pony rides for children Fri & Sat, 6-7 April, 11am-4pm Safe ponies and experienced handlers. 3-5 minute ride. 2-11 yr olds £2.50 per ride clandonpark.co.uk

Claremont Landscape Garden Esher KT10 9JG Tel: 01372 467806 Easter Egg Trail Friday, 6 and Saturday, 7 April, 10.30am - 4pm – play area, face painting, storytelling, and a fun-filled trail with a chocolatey treat. £2 per trail. Easter Bonnet Parade and Competition – prize for the best adult and best child Easter bonnet. Saturday, 7 April, 3pm

Winkworth Arboretum Hascombe Road, Godalming, Surrey GU8 4AD Tel: 01483 208477 Easter Egg Trail and activities for children, Sun-Mon 8-9 April, 10.30am-4pm. 2 per child nationaltrust.org.uk/ winkwortharboretum

Dapdune Wharf Wharf Road, Guildford GU1 4RR Tel: 01483 561389 Easter ‘Egglimpics’ Friday, 6 April 11am-5pm.£2.50 per child. Egg and spoon races, tug o’war and various obstacles courses with Easter egg prizes for all the winners. Craft activities. Great ‘Eggs-Factor’ Family Challenge Trail – Sat-Mon, 7-9 April, 11am-5pm. £1.50 per trail. Easter Trails

Leeds Castle 5 Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL Collect a chocolate Easter egg from the Bunny Burrow and also enjoy animal fun and crafts in the grounds. 6 to 9 April, 10am-6pm. Admission + £2.50. Plus easter egg archery and face painting. leeds-castle.com/events

Hever Castle 6 Hever, Nr Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG Tel: 01732 865224 Annual Easter Egg Hunt – 6-9 April. Follow the clues in the gardens and claim your egg. Step into Easter: 10-15 April Brass rubbings workshop. Hever Lake Walk. Rowing boats for hire. Adventure Playground and Water Maze, 100-year old Yew Maze. Gardens open 10.30am; Castle opens 12 noon-5pm. Admission £14.50; Children £8.30; Family ticket £37.30. hevercastle.co.uk

Surrey Wildlife 7 Trust Wild Wednesday Eggstraordinary Eggstravaganza Wednesday, 4 April. 10am-12noon or 1-3pm Newlands Corner Visitor Centre, Shere Road, Guildford, GU4 8SE. Easter egg hunt with prizes and springtime-themed crafts for 5-9yr olds. Café and picnic area. Booking essential. Children £6, adults free. Bookings: SWT Membership Manager, Kati Reeve 01483 795460

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Easter days out tts F a

Bedgebury Forest 8 BedgeburyRoad, Goudhurst, nr Scotney Castle, Kent TN17 2SJ Drop in Easter Egg Hunt – Tues-Thurs 3-5 April. 10.30am-3pm. All ages. Families follow a self-guiding Easter Egg trail leading back to the classroom, where they can make an Easter card to take home and enjoy a sweet treat. £3 per child. Booking not required.

Priory Farm 9 Sandy Lane, South Nutfield, Redhill, Surrey, RH1 4EJ Tel: 07754 188824 Sun-Mon, 8-9 April Egg Rolling on Discovery Walk – Easter Sunday and Monday 2pm-4pm. Discovery Walk entry £2.25. prioryfarm.co.uk

Tulleys Farm 10 Turners Hill, Nr. Crawley, West Sussex. RH10 4PE. Tel: 01342 718472. Farm Shop, Tea Room and Hay Rack Espresso Bar. tulleysfarm.com Sat 31 March to Sun, 15 April – open from 10am. The Big Hatch Festival! Annual Easter Egg & Bunny Hunt. Hunt down the cartoon bunnies and cheeky eggs, find them all to win a prize Easter weekend: Follow the charming walk to meet the Easter Bunny in his Secret Burrow. The Egg Spotting Wagon Ride: A rustic egg counting ride, score as many as you can to win a prize. Lambing tent and Baby animal barn. Easter Fun Activities: Giant Slide, Quad Barrel Train Ride, Trampolines, Corn Bounce and Duck Racing. Plus Singing Chicken Show and more!

Bower Hill Farm Easter Walk

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National Trust Claremont Landscape garden Easter egg trail

More Easter attractions Malden Miniature Railway Willow Bank, Claygate Lane, Thames Ditton KT7 0LE Miniature railway riding Opening on Easter Sunday and Monday, 8-9 April then the first Sunday of the month and every Bank Holiday Sunday and Monday until October. Trains run from 2pm to 5.30pm. Catering available 2.30pm to 5.30pm. Admission to site if free, single rides cost £2.50. (No cheques or credit cards) malden-dsme.co.uk

Godstone Farm Godstone Farm, Tilburstow Hill Road, Godstone RH9 8LX Tel: 01883 742546 godstonefarm.co.uk Open 10am - 5pm everyday including bank holidays. 31 March-15 April, Easter egg Quiz (small additional charge), a FREE craft plus animal holding, tractor rides, pig and duck feeding sessions and use of the indoor soft play area. Plus new baby lambs and an appearance from Bubbles the Bunny!

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Bower Hill Farm Bower Hill Lane, S. Nutfield RH1 4EH Tel: 01737 822639 Open Day on Easter Sunday, 8 April, 11am-4pm, with an Easter Hunt around the grounds and bluebell woods. Baby animals, farm produce, a fun day for all the family! www.bowerhillfarm.co.uk

British Wildlife Centre Newchapel, Lingfield, RH7 6LF Open school holidays plus every weekend / public holidays March to October Easter holiday: Sat 31 March to Sun 15 April open daily. 10am to 5pm (last admission 4pm)

Holmbush Farm World Crawley Road, Faygate, West Sussex, RH12 4SE Tel: 01293 851110. www.holmbushfarm.co.uk A traditional, working farm in a beautiful setting. Plus tractor rides, animal barns and handling, goat racing. Picnic and play areas, tea room and gift shop. £7.25, child £6.25, family entry £25. Dates for Easter: Amazing tricks from Poz the Magician and his

Punch & Judy Show April 3 & 4, 10am-5.30pm Tommy the Jester and his Circus Workshop April 5 & April 12, 10am5.30pm Charlie the Clown joins the animals for some fooling and falling about April 6 & April 7, 10am5.30pm Steve arrives with his stunning collection of snakes and reptiles. April 11, 10am-5.30pm

Fishers Farm Park Newpound Lane, Wisborough Green, nr Billingshurst, W. Sussex RH14 0EG Tel: 01403 700063. fishersfarmpark.co.uk 31 March & 1 April Peppa Pig visits Fishers! Meet Peppa throughout the day for a great pig hug!! Plus special events such as ‘Pig Racing’ and a ‘Name The Piglet’ competition! 31 March-15 April EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA! 14-15 April A Weekend with Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom A little kingdom of elves and fairies is coming to visit Fishers! Magical fun and exciting adventures and meet Ben & Holly themselves! 28 April Birds of Prey Day

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Little Rascals

Your local traditional toy shop for ages 0-6 Soft and wooden toys from brands including:

•Jellycat, •BigJigs, •John Crane, •Wheelybugs, •ShooShoos, •Grobags©, •Greeting Cards, and more! Visit our enticing shop at 140 Merton Road South Wimbledon SW19 1EH 020 8542 9979 Open Tues to Sat 9-5.30 (Between Polka Theatre and South Wimbledon Tube) www.little-rascals.co.uk

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Easter listings, part 2

Please make sure you say you found them in Families South West.

Easter holidays are coming up! Children on your hands for all or part of the Easter holidays? Joanna Parry has found a great selection of activities for you. Make sure you tell everyone where you’ve found them! See more EASTER ACTIVITIES part 1 on www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk It includes language courses, music and drama, lots of sports and ideas for a day out.

ARTS AND CRAFTS Eddie Catz Wimbledon, 42 Station Road, Merton SW19 2LP 4 April. Toddler Easter Fun Morning – Games, activities, crafts and egg hunting. 10am-12pm, ages 24, tickets £6.95, includes lunch for the kids 4 April. Lasertag Disco Evening – Giant Laser Tag with disco music, lights and Easter surprises! Battle will commence 6-8pm, ages 6-12, £15, includes pizza and juice, goody bag and Easter egg hunt 11 April. Crazy Science Workshop – A show all budding scientists will love. 10am-1pm, ages 5-10, £20, includes play at Eddie Catz after the workshop. Bring a packed lunch.0845 201 1268, www.eddiecatz.com Eddie Catz Putney, 68-70 Putney High Street, SW15 4 April. Easter French Eggstravaganza – A fun hour of French with Club Petit Pierrot and a Pirate and Treasure

Hunt theme. 4-5pm, ages 0-10. First child £10, siblings £5, includes play at Eddie Catz. Call Club Petit Pierrot 020 7385 5565, admincpp@btconnect.com 10 April. Toddler Easter Fun Morning – Games, activities, crafts and egg hunting. 10am-12pm, ages 2-4, tickets £6.95, includes lunch for the kids 0845 201 1268, www.eddiecatz.com

MUSIC AND DRAMA Kidz'n'Rock Sacred Heart Primary School, Este Road, SW11 2TD 2 - 4 April. Easter School of Rock A holiday course with band practice, instrument tuition, singing, stage coaching and rhythm trials. Activities arranged by age groups and experience, complete beginners welcome. Ages 5-12. contact@kidznrock.co.uk, www.kidznrock.co.uk

Pinxie Music East Sheen, St Margarets, Teddington April dates tbc. Easter holiday classes – Fun music classes for children under 5 with Pinxie the Rabbit. Music, singing, dancing, puppets, bubbles and more! £6, £2 siblings. 07930 182780, pinxiemusic@gmail.com. www.pinxiemusic.co.uk Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 3 – 13 April. Easter Workshops – Act, sing, dance and create at Polka Theatre! Clowning Around – 3 April, 10am-12.30pm, ages 7-11, £20 Easter Egg Detectives – 4 & 5 April, 9.45-10.45am for ages 3-4, 11.15am-12.15pm for ages 4-5, £25 Polka Pop Stars – Take 2! – 11 April, 10am-12.30pm, ages 5-7, £20 Puppeteer for a Day – 13 April, 10am-3.30pm, ages 7-11, £25 020 8543 4888, www.polkatheatre.com Theatrebugs Balham, Barnes, Battersea, Clapham, Earlsfield, Fulham, Putney, Richmond 2-13 April depending on venue. Three-day dramatic adventures – Easter adventures packed with

drama, music, dance and arts and crafts. Buzz around with Buzz the Bee to help Fairy Petal. 3 and a half-8 year olds. £78, 10% sibling discount, includes snack and drink. 0800 975 5290, enquiries@theatrebugs.co.uk. www.theatrebugs.co.uk Theatre Tribe Streatham & Clapham High School, 42 Abbotswood Rd, SW16 1AW 10-14 April. Mamma Mia Madness! Rehearse the routines from the hit West End show for an all-singing all-dancing spectacle. Ages 7-15. 020 3239 3149 / 07751 238 932, contactus@theatretribe.co.uk, www.theatretribe.co.uk Quote the code ‘FAMILIES’ and pay £220 as opposed to £255 for the week. Young Film Academy April 2nd - 5th. A 4-Day Film School at Christ Church, Wimbledon, 16 Copse Hill, SW20 0GH. For ages 10-14. Cost: £390. To book a place or for more information, contact dnyan@youngfilmacademy.co.uk or call 020 7387 4341 More details can be found at www.youngfilmacademy.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Easter listings, part 2 Make it an eco-friendly Easter Approximately 80 million chocolate eggs will be sold in the UK this year. It has been estimated that this will generate around 4,370 tonnes of cardboard, 160 tonnes of foil and millions off discarded plastic waste items. However, you can still enjoy Easter, save money and help reduce your impact on our planet!

1. Avoid over-packaging For chocolate lovers and eco warriors alike, the chocolate-to-packaging ratio of a standard Easter egg is a massive let-down. When choosing your Easter egg avoid those which come in giant boxes and contain sheets of plastic. Instead, choose one wrapped in foil, which can be easily recycled. 2. Buy Fairtrade or organic Opt for an Easter egg made using organic and Fairtrade ingredients: that way you ensure you’re not the only one celebrating at Easter. Vote with your feet: the more we buy the more will be on the shelves in the future. 3. Make your own Easter treats Create some childhood memories of Easter by pouring delicious melted chocolate into bunny-shaped moulds. Homemade shredded wheat and chocolate bird’s nests are also hugely entertaining. 4. Choose longer-lasting gifts Rather than just giving gifts that end up in the bin or that leave you in need of a gym workout, consider something a bit longer lasting such as some natural Easter soap or opt for the sweet organic cotton bunny. 5. Get the family together Look for holiday activities to get the whole family outdoors spending quality time together. We list loads of local Easter egg hunts! Or organise your own egg hunt. EthicalCommunity.com is a marketplace where you can buy ethical products directly from the producers products. Since the site launched in October 2010 the EthicalCommunity marketplace has offered unique products ranging from Fairtrade coffee to handmade natural soap and up-cycled t-shirts. EthicalCommunity.com gives (often small, one-man- band) sellers a platform to sell products. It also gives consumers all the information they need to demystify ethical shopping. Liam Patterson, an avid environmentalist, developed the Community idea while at University of Leeds EthicalCommunity.com

SPORTS Activ Camps for kids aged 4 14. For non-stop, action-packed fun in the holidays, look no further than Activ Camps. The combination of an endless list of activities that kids really love; and an abundance of fully trained, enthusiastic staff makes this multi-activity camp totally unmissable. Free extended days, competitive pricing and great discounts for siblings and more means that parents love Activ Camps

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

too. Activ Camps are running at the following locations over the Easter and summer holidays: Emanuel School, Battersea Rise, Wandsworth, SW11 1HS Barnes Sports Club, Lonsdale Road, Barnes, SW13 9QL and NEW for this Summer at Wimbledon College, Edge Hill, Wimbledon, SW19 4NS Don't miss out! Visit www.activcamps.com or call 07896 546067 for more info. Amanda’s Action Club Chiswick, Ealing, Putney

2-4 April depending on venue. Fun with music – Classes over Easter at Eddie Catz, Putney, Ealing Town Hall and Chiswick Town Hall. For details visit www.amandasactionclub.co.uk Battersea Sports Centre Hope Street, SW11 2DA 2-13 April. Multisport Activities – A variety of sports, fun and games, arts and crafts, dance, trampolining, martial arts and more. £9.50 per day or £36 per week paid in advance, 10am-3pm, registration from 9.30am. Ages 7 – 13. 8871 8529 or 7228 0632,bsc@wandsworth.gov.uk. www.wandsworth.gov.uk Chelsea FC Soccer School Battersea Park, Barnes, Balham 2-5 and 10-13 April. London Soccer School – For boys and girls ages 3-14 (Mini Kickers ages 3-5, Soccer Schools 5-14, Goalkeeping 8-12). 7957 8220, londondevelopment@ chelseafc.com. www.chelseafc.com/soccerschools Fit For Sport Chelsea, Chiswick, Richmond, South Kensington, Twickenham, Wimbledon 2–13 April. Easter Activity Camps – Have fun and make friends in a wide range of sports & activities at the Fit For Sport Healthy Lifestyle Activity Kids Camps. From £2 per hour. 0845 456 3233. www.fitforsport.co.uk Kiddikicks Across South West London 2-20 April. Multi-sports activities – Big 5 Holiday Programme – 5 sports over 5 days. Daily classes of Kiddisports rugby, cricket, hockey, bat and ball, ages 18 months–7 years. Call 0845 602 8276 or 020 7937 7965, sarah@kiddikicks.co.uk. www.kiddikicks.co.uk The Little Gym Wandsworth, Fulham, Hampton, Teddington

3-5 April 3-hour camps – Specially-created gymnastics camps over for children aged 3-12. 8874 6567 (Wandsworth), email wandsworth_fulham@ thelittlegym.co.uk or 8977 0099 (Hampton), email hampton_teddington@ thelittlegym.co.uk www.thelittlegym.co.uk Wandsworth Leisure Balham, Tooting, Wandsworth 2-13 April depending on activity. Holiday Fun programme – Glee Club Dance, Kidz Club Multisport, Sport Skillz Multisport and Trampolining. Ages 3-13 depending on activity. 8871 6756, holidayfun@wandsworth.gov.uk. www.wandsworth.gov.uk/holidayfun Menace Tennis 12 14 April Ravenscourt Park, Hammersmith, and Kensington Memorial Park, Notting Hill. 07788 486469 www.menacetennis.co.uk

SCIENCE Mother Nature Science Camp 2-5 and 10-13 April In celebration of the London 2012 Olympics, the fun, hands-on activities will explore the fun science behind Olympic sporting events. Children make their own take home science experiments every day, understanding how and why Olympians prepare their bodies, investigating the effect of friction, air resistance, Newton’s 3rd law, forces and motion and even having a go at building boats and racing friction sprinters and more! Places very limited. 8863 8832, or info@mnature.co.uk www.mnature.co.uk Group discounts available. Holland Park Ecology Centre 2-13 April Outdoor and craft activities for ages 5-12 www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecology 8 page 26

Plenty more Easter activities under What’s on

Easter listings, part 2

Orleans House Gallery Riverside, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ 3-13 April depending on activity. Easter Clubs – Coach House Club, 10am-3pm, ages 6-9, £25 per day, bring a packed lunch CH2, 10am-3pm, ages 9-14, £25 per day Half-day Techniques Workshops, 10am-12pm for ages 4-7, 2-4pm for ages 7-10, £10 per workshop Half-day Workshops, 10am12pm or 2-4pm, ages 4-5, £10 per workshop Easter Bunny, 5 April, 2-3.30pm, £8.50 per child, age under 8 Book on 020 8831 6000, www.richmond.gov.uk/arts

Orleans House Gallery

IDEAS FOR A DAY OUT

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES Gunnersbury Park Museum 1 April Discover what life was like for working class Victorian children, dress up in period costume and role play. For all ages. 11.30am, 12noon, 1.15pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. Venue: Gunnersbury Park W3 8LQ Cost: £1 per child. Advance booking essential on 020 8992 2247. London Transport Museum 39 Wellington Street, WC2E 7BB 2-13 April. Easter family fun – Storytelling, 2-6 April and 9-13 April, 11am and 1.30pm Tip Top Hats and Bonnets Workshop, 2 and 6 April, 12-1.30pm, ages 5+ Craft Workshop: Tickets Please! 2 and 6 April, 23.30pm, ages 5+ Kids free, adults £13.50 but tickets allow entry for one year 020 7565 7298, www.ltmuseum.co.uk National Gallery Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN 9-11 April. Free family fun – Storyscape, 9 and 11 April, 10.30-11am, ages 2-5. Interactive story sessions that take you on a wild and wonderful journey discovering quirky characters, curious sounds and fantastic places Drawing Stories, 10 April, 10.30-11.30am, ages 2-5. Tell a story through art Studio workshops, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm, ages 5-11 No need to book but places limited and allocated on arrival Call 020 7747 2894/2885, www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Fortnum and Mason 181 Piccadilly, W1A 1ER Throughout April. Eggcellent fun for all ages – 40 day Faberge Big Egg Hunt, ends Easter Day. Eager egg hunters eggsplore London in search of clues and discover eggs all over the capital containing clues, secrets, and prizes Hot Cross Bun Demonstration, 3 April, 1pm. Bakers Fred & Andrew show you how to make the ultimate Hot Cross Buns Super Scotch Egg, 5 April, 1pm Call 0845 300 1707, www.fortnumandmason.com Morden Hall Park Morden Hall Road, SM4 5JD 6-9 April. An Easter Eggstravaganza – Take part in an Easter trail sponsored by Cadbury’s. Activities and games for all the family – and a chocolate egg to take home! £3 per child, 11am-4pm Sunday 8th April, Easter Eggstravaganza, Bunnies Picnic & a Big Bouncy Castle at Merton Abbey Mills, Wimbledon 11.30am. – 1.30pm. Hop along, dressed as Bunnies or Chicks for some cracking fun! Stay for a Bunnies Picnic and a play on the big “Bouncy Castle”. Fun & goodies for everyone. Bring your own picnic and some carrots and don’t forget a basket to collect the yummy eggs. Watch out for the Easter Bonnet Parade! For children ages 2-11 years who must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Call 020 8545 6850, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park Or www.party-bounce.co.uk

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Luca and Maya make Easter Eggs

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速

Parenting

Setting boundaries by Helena Foss

Relentless: That is the word I tend to mutter when I’m stomping around in a grumpy haze, steadying myself on walls and furniture, hand clamped onto forehead, begging the powers that be for strength as I surrender to the teethclenching exasperation that sometimes constitutes motherhood.

Actually, mothering is only really relentless when I am not quite rising to the challenges it is chucking at me. And the last few months, dear readers, I have mostly been struggling with: boundaries. Ah yes, that old brick wall that children just love kicking against, for as long as they possibly can, until their little metaphorical feet hurt too much to keep going. What is it with little ones? Why do they give us such a hard time? I mean, where is their respect?

Losing it Not long ago I found myself in that awful position of being the kind of mother I thought I would never be, losing my rag as I attempted to manage an all-guns-blazing tantrum, smack bang in the middle of town, at rush hour. Reasoning was not getting anywhere. Neither was shouting. In the end, I had to grab my boy by the scruff of the neck and yank him onto a bus, holding him at arms length to avoid his attempts to scratch me. Determinedly ignoring the bus full of tut-tutting commuters, I pulled him and his flailing limbs upstairs and mercifully found a place right at the back for him to howl himself into exhaustion. Not my finest hour. I really thought I knew about boundaries. Not only do I have a background in therapy, hey, I watched almost every episode of BBC3’s ‘The House of Tiny Tearaways’ with child psychology expert Professor Tanya Byron at the helm. The theory is great; but practically speaking, I had no idea how tough it would be to draw that all important line without resorting to threats, bribery or a big stick. With the jigging motion of sitting on the back seat of that bus starting to calm us both down and normalise my blood pressure, I noticed that my internal dialogue was sounding horribly judgemental: ‘After all I have done for you,’ my inner embittered doormat moaned, ‘you ungrateful

‘It’s just relentless.’ I hiss to myself. ‘Relentless! Why did no-one tell me just how damn hard this parenting thing was going to be?’

little...’ Cue the scratchy sound of a needle veering off an old vinyl record. ‘Noooooo!’ I yelled inwardly, sitting up with a jolt as if waking up out of a nightmare. This was not the person I ever wanted to be.

The blame game See, I know that blame is the easy option. The popular American family therapist Dr Phil insists that you have to teach people how to treat you. In fact, it is your job to point out when people are taking you for granted. But this takes courage, tenacity and, importantly, respect for oneself. It means giving up the niceness and need-to-beneeded so prevalent in the female conditioning. Lying in bed that night, still stunned at just how hellish my afternoon had been, it dawned on me that I had been giving into everyone’s wants apart from my own – and lost my sense of self in the process. It was indeed mortifying to mentally assess just how resentful towards my family I had become; how relentless everyone’s needs felt upon me. My son had given me the gift of reflecting back just how secretly angry I was at myself, for relentlessly ignoring my own needs. The art of good taking good care of oneself, as well as our children, I have found, is being able to set ground rules as a matter of fact. ‘This is Mummy time’ has to be said in the same straightforward manner as ‘the grass is green’. It is just how it is; no need to defend it with barbed wire and machine guns. As a friend of mine likes to say, ‘once everyone in the family knows their place, even the dog and the cat, we can all relax.’

Cute tantrums ‘You know, when I think back to those days of tantrums,’ a mother of several teenagers reminisced to me recently, ‘I actually think it was really cute.’ Cute?! It took me a while to get my head round that one. Children’s little brains, I have to remind myself, are not wired for considered, rational behaviour. If they want something they want it. Now. Not having it can bring on a full-blown grief reaction. As overt as they are with their sadness, they are with their happiness and love too. There is nothing quite like my son running up to fling his arms around me when I walk through the door, after nipping to the corner shop. The other week, my son’s school nursery teacher told me she had asked the class if anyone knew what a tantrum was. My boy’s hand, apparently, shot up. ‘A tantrum,’ he said solemnly as he stood in front of the class, ‘is when you just pry and pry and pry.’ (He hasn’t got the hard ‘c’ sound nailed in that particular word just yet). The discussion opened up and, one by one, the faces of his nursery chums lit up. ‘Oh yes,’ they chimed, ‘I do that sometimes too!’ And: ‘So do I!’

A four-year-olds tantrum support group! Awwwww. Now that really is cute.

•Helena is a hypnotherapist and writer about all things holistic and spiritual. See: www.helenafoss.co.uk

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

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 The Spanish Nursery School SW7 and SW1 The Spanish out of school club for children from 2 to 5 years old. Toddler Group from 1 year old

The Kensington Gardens Nursery School, W2 For a brochure please call Bilingual Nursery school French/English Marie-Laurence Edmonstone For children 1-5 years old 020 7259 21 51 marie-laurence@thefrenchnurseryschool.com

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THE WILLOW NURSERY 823-825 Wandsworth Road, Clapham, SW8 3JL Tel: 020 7498 0319 Est.1981 E-mail: admin@thewillownursery.co.uk Joint Heads: Caroline Henson & Virginia Bisset. Opening hours: 8.15am to 12.15pm Sessions: Mornings only Weeks open a year: Termtime Ages: Two and half to 5 years Max no. of pupils: 40. Pupil/teacher ratio: Under 3yrs: 4:1, 3-5yrs 8:1 Curriculum: Montessori and traditional methods. Activities: Art, craft, cooking, Spanish, gardening, home corner, ICT, messy play, computer club. Four specialist teachers for singing, dance, gym and cooking. Facilities: Large, bright, spacious hall and a smaller reception room. Contact: Please contact Amanda for Prospectus and to arrange a visit. The Willow is renowned for its creativity. Our aim is to create a stimulating, happy and fun environment so that the children love coming to school. We develop confidence and a keen interest to learn both independently and with individual attention.

www.thewillownursery.co.uk

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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...

HILDRETH STREET MARKET Food Market, Balham SW12 10am-4pm. WEEKLY. This market brings a fantastic range of artisan food producers to Balham.

DIARY DATES

BALHAM FARMERS’ MARKET Chestnut Grove Primary School, Junction of Chestnut Grove and Hearnville Road, Balham, SW12 8JZ Every Saturday 9am-2pm. Delicious fresh fruit, juices, vegetables, meat, poultry, eggs, honey, breads and much more. And it’s a very familyfriendly location too!

EVENTS FOR CHILDREN WILDLIFE WATCH CLUB -WIMBLEDON COMMON. Meet on the first Sunday of each month at the information Centre, Wimbledon Common, near the Windmill. 10am-12pm. 6-14yrs. £1 registration fee and £2 per session. 020 8540 6154 8 Apr. HAIRY HEDGEHOGS AND SEEDS AND SOIL 6 May. POND DIPPING. Eddie Catz PUTNEY 68-70 Putney High Street, London SW15 1SF 0845 2011268, www.eddiecatz.com Playframe, Toddler & Baby area, Café, free WiFi, classes for under 5’s, Holiday Camps, free video games. 9.30am-6.30pm Mon-Sat & 10am-6.30pm Sun. April. mykidscoach starts a new 10 week cricket course for young, enthusiastic cricketers who are in the U7/U8/U9 year groups, keen to develop their core cricket skills through fun games, innovative drills and match play. www.mykidscoach.co.uk mykidscoach@me.com Eddie Catz WIMBLEDON 42 Station Road, Merton SW19 2LP 0845 2011268, www.eddiecatz.com Playframe, toddler playframe & play area, indoor multi-sports pitch, Disco, Café, free WiFi, holiday camps, video games, kiddie rides 9.30am-6.00pm Mon-Sun. Check the website for a full programme of events, workshops and weekeday classes. OASIS CHILDREN VENTURE –UNDER 5s NATURE PLAYGROUP Larkhall Lane SW4 6SP 020 7498 2328/ 07841 198173 or naturegarden@oasisplay.org.uk Fri 10.30am-12noon during term time. Sessions run in all weather–indoor area available. Parent supervision required. No need to book. Games, singing, art, building, exploring and play, all in a safe and natural setting. Each week has a theme: growing, minibeasts, habitats, recycling.

Workshop Saatchi Gallery conversations and drawing activities, children will have the opportunity to touch, experience and interact with the art materials. 4-12yrs (younger siblings welcome). Bkg essential. 6-7 Apr & 9 Apr. ARTIST’S EGG Do you want to make a Damien Hirst’s Egg? Or been inspired by an artist in the exhibition GESAMTKUNSTWERK: NEW ART FROM GERMANY? or you can just come in and create your personal painted egg. £5 per egg (provided) All ages. No bkg, drop-in between 11am-4pm. For info & bkg: through websites or email RIDGWAY STABLES 4 days courses of riding and stables management through the Easter holidays 3-6 Apr & 10-13 Apr. For 8-16 yr olds. Also private lessons for children from 4yrs old. www.ridgwaystables.co.uk or www.merrton.gov.uk/activeplus or call Julia 020 8946 7400

THINGS TO DO EN FAMILLE VENN STREET MARKET Clapham Common, London SW4 www.vennstreetmarket.co.uk This much loved market aims to encourage flower, plant and food production, better reflect the seasonal nature of food and plants, reduce produce mileage and packaging and support the local economy. WEEKLY Market on Saturdays 11am-4pm. Food Market.

SMILEY TIME NURSERY RHYMES & STORY TIME £5 per child (sibling discount £3), drop-in sessions. Babies to under 5s THE ALTHORP Restaurant 20 Bellevue Road Wandsworth Common, London SW17 07540 990133 www.smileytime.co.uk Mondays & Thursdays 10am.. Café BELLE AMIE 404 Garratt Lane, Southfields, SW18 4HP. Tuesdays 10am and 10.45am WORKSHOPS AT SAATCHI GALLERY Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, London SW3 4RY www.familyworkshops.wordpress.com familyartworkshops@gmail.com or www.valeriaamadei.wordpress.com On Sundays until 29 Apr. A BAG FULL OF ART 10.30am, 12pm, 3pm & 4.30pm. £3. The tour begins with the opening of a bag that contains media used by today’s artists, then along with

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Balham Farmers market From 1 Apr. WEEKLY on Sundays, with a great craft section as well. 11am-4pm. Satu 28 April 10-4pm Macmillan Cancer Support, Merton SPRING FAIR on at Christchurch Hall, Cottenham Park Road, West Wimbledon SW20

A TICKET TO RIDE THE BT TOWER, AND HELP YOUNG CANCER SUFFERERS Thurs 26 Apr. Tickets must be purchased in advance and include a “lift pass” to travel the breathtaking 189 metres up to the 34th floor, where guests can enjoy light refreshments and a glass of bubbly whilst taking in the spectacular views of London. £50 a ticket, the money raised will be split between The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust and Barretstown. Bkg: www.stubmatic.com/emct/event/7022

EVENTS FOR ADULTS CRAFTY PINT WORKSHOP The Tooting Tram and Social Pub, 46-48 Mitcham Road, London SW17 9NA. 7 Apr. TEA TOWEL PRINTING WORKSHOP 2pm-5pm. £15 which includes tools, material, tuition, and a cake or two! Booking: www.craftypint.co.uk INTERIOR DESIGN CLASSES BBC BAR, 7-9 Ramsden Road, Balham SW12 www.londonpropertymakeover.com 16 Apr. DESIGNING CREATIVE CHILDREN’S BEDROOMS 12.30pm-3pm With creative ideas, get inspired to make a wonderfully creative space for your child. £60 21 Apr. INTERIOR DESIGN MASTERCLASS 1pm-4.30pm. Learn how to make your home a HOT property. £60. For info and booking please visit the website 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 PEDIATRIC COURSES FULFILLING OFSTED CRITERIA covering the full syllabus specified by Ofsted for childcarers: Thurs 19 Apr, Sat 21 Apr, Wed 2 May, Sat 5 May, Fri 18 May. EMERGENCY COURSE/FIRST AID FOR BABIES 9.30am-12.30pm. Tue 24 Apr, Sat 28 Apr, Wed 23 May. THE PAPERED PARLOUR 7, Prescott Place, London SW4 6BS 020 7627 8703 www.thepaperedparlour.co.uk Sun 29 Apr. HAND PRINTED WALLPAPER WITH CUSTHOM DESIGN 12noon-5pm Another opportunity to join bespoke wallpaper artist Jemma Ooi of CUSTHOM Design to explore the wondrous world of block printing. £133 (includes materials +refreshments) Class size 6.

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What’s on DRAMA HALF MOON YOUNG PEOPLE’S THEATRE 43 White Horse Road, London E1 0ND 020 7709 8900 www.halfmoon.org.uk All tickets £6. Sat 31 Mar. TRAVELS WITH GRANDDAD 11am & 2pm. Evocative sound, light and exquisite puppetry combines to create a classic performance, which will enthral and delight the whole family. 3yrs+.

THE LYRIC HAMMERSMITH THEATRE Lyric Square, King Street, London W6 0OL 0871 22 117 20 www.lyric.co.uk Sat 31 Mar. LITTLE BO PEEP 11am & 1pm. With magnificent puppets, fantastic scenery and some favourite nursery rhymes. Messy Pay 12pm & 2pm. 2-7yrs. Sat 14 Apr. THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE 11am & 1pm. A tiny snail hitches a lift on the tail of a huge humpback whale and together they go on an amazing journey. But disaster strikes. Can the tiny snail save the day? Messy Play 12pm & 2pm 4-10yrs. Sat 21 Apr. KID CARPET AND THE NOISY ANIMALS 11am & 1pm. The adventures of a singer and his animal band. This lively performance combines a unique mix of comedy, animation and original live music. Messy Play 12pm & 2pm. 3-8yrs. Sat 28 & Sun 29 Apr. CIRCUS MINIMUS Sat 10.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm. Sun 10.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm & 2.15pm. Family favourite Lyngo are back with a circus that puts you in the ring and brings the everyday to life. Messy Play 11.15am, 12.45pm & 2.15pm. 2-5yrs.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Little Venice, Blomfield Road, London W9 2PF 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Tickets: £8.50/£10. BRER RABBIT VISITS AFRICA 31 Mar 11am & 3pm, 1 Apr to 15 Apr daily at 3pm, 21 Apr 11am & 3pm, 22 Apr 3pm, 28 Apr 11am & 3pm, 29 Apr 3pm. A contemporary story adapted from the original stories by Joel Chandler Harris, featuring the traditional folk character of Brer Rabbit. Performances 11am & 3pm, or 3pm depending on schedule, please check the website

POLKA THEATRE. 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com SHOWS To 21 Apr. TWIST OF GOLD by Michael Morpugo. With famine gripping Ireland, Sean and Annie have just one chance of survival – they must find their father. Leaving their dying mother behind, they travel across rough seas to America. With only the gold torc that Annie wears as a necklace to protect them, they embark on a long and dangerous journey. But will they ever be reunited with their family? An epic adventure written by the masterful storyteller and author of War Horse, Michael Morpurgo. 913yrs. £6/£12.

Thu 5 Apr 2pm. After-show Talk. VISITING ADVENTURES £7/£9 Tue 3-Sat 7 Apr. No 7 DANDELION STREET The Major discovers some of the extraordinary inhabitants of his cottage garden and has great difficulties to cope with a flying potato and a badtempered witch! A colourful and exciting show with puppets and music. 3-6yrs. Tue 10-Sat 14 Apr. THUMBELINA Follow Hans Christian Andersen’s extraordinary tale of a girl no bigger than a thumb and her adventures with a frog, mouse, and a mole in a show that offers the perfect setting for a child’s introduction to puppet theatre. 3-5yrs. Tue 17-Sat 21 Apr. TREASURE Welcome aboard for a sparkling adventure around the Islands of Objects. Meet the fantastic creatures living there and keep a look out for hidden treasure.. a gentle, interactive performance/play session. 6mths-2yrs (Tue-Thu) & 3-yrs (Fri-Sat) Bkg: 020 8543 4888. FREE EVENTS AT POLKA -First Sunday of each month: POP-UP POLKA FAIR. 11am-4pm, free, all ages. With handmade crafts, gifts and delicious treats! Young people can enjoy Polka’s playground and the café will be open as usual. -Sat 7 Apr. WORLD OF STORIES AND MUSIC Travel with storyteller Christine Cooper to a time when giants, fiddlers and flower maidens roamed the hills of Britain. Booking at storytelling@polkatheatre.com AFTER-SCHOOL CLUBS Please check the website for details of this exciting programme!

THE COLOUR HOUSE THEATRE Merton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way, SW19 2RD 020 8767 8886 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Sat & Sun 2pm & 4pm both days. £7/£9. To 15 Apr. WIZARD OF OZ We’re off to see the wizard again as Dorothy puts on those ruby slippers and follows that Yellow Brick Road all the way to the Emerald City with her good friends. A new musical adaptation of this wonderful classic.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE The Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1QG 0844 871 7646 www.ambassadortickets.com/wimbledon Sun 1 Apr. FIREMAN SAM LIVE – PONTYPANDY ROCKS! 1pm & 3pm. Join Fireman Sam, and all his friends, as Pontypandy hosts its first ever music festival. Tue 17-Sat 21. DANCING QUEEN – ABBA’S GREATEST HITS Dig out those flares, put on your dancing shoes and get ready for the best 70s party in town! £10/£24. Mon 23-Wed 25 Apr. CHINESE STATE CIRCUS –YIN YANG Don’t miss this stunning production that features the most daring, breathtaking and thrilling artistes to tour the UK. £15/£26, family £50/£70.

RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7651 www.ambassadortickets.com/richmond Sun 1 Apr. SCIENCE MUSEUM – LIVE ON TOUR 4pm. Unleash your inner Einstein – explosive fun for all the family! Experience spectacular science, dangerous demonstration and extraordinary experiments as the Science Museum takes to the stage with a fantastic live show.

£13.50/£15.50. Mon 2-Sat 7 Apr. SPAMALOT – THE MONTY PYTHON MUSICAL starring Todd Carty. Mon-Sat eves 7.30pm, Wed & Sat Mats 2.30pm. The legendary tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the round Table with hilarious songs. £19.50/£35

PUTNEY ARTS THEATRE Ravenna Road, Putney SW15 6AW 020 8788 6943. www.putneyartstheatre.org.uk/welcome GROUPE 64 EASTER HOLIDAY PROJECTS Mon 2-Fri 6 Apr. WONDERLAND 10am-4pm Come and discover the magical world of Wonderland, where anything weird and wonderful is possible! Let your imaginations run wild with this fun and creative week of drama. 7-11yrs. £95. 020 8788 6935. Mon 9- Wed 11 Apr. SPACE ADVENTURE, STARS AND SPARKLES Let your imagination take you on a Group 64 adventure to the milky way and back again. Great for confidence building and letting those creative ideas loose! 4-7yrs. £50. 020 8788 6935 Tue 24-Sat 28 Apr. THE WINSLOW BOY by Terence Rattigan. 7.45pm, Sat matinee 3pm. When 14 yrs old Ronnie Winslow is expelled for stealing a 5-shilling note a sequence of events is set in motion that ends with “right” being pursued through the highest court in the land. Though set in 1912, its concern with political, judicial and journalistic unfairness also makes this story an extraordinary pertinent drama for our time. Tickets Tue £7/£5, Wed-Sat £10/£7. Box Office: 020 8788 6943

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, Southwark, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com Fri 30 Mar-Sun 15 Apr. THE LEGEND OF CAPTAIN CROW’S TEETH Will is nine and he has to spend three weeks in a cramped caravan by the sea with four brothers. Not a very promising family holidays! But this is not an ordinary seaside town. Hundreds of years ago it was terrorised by the legendary Captain Crow. Join will, his family and a motley crew of pirates in a trilling adventure. 7yrs+ Tue 17-Sat 28 Apr. DNA A group of teenagers do something really bad, then panic and cover the whole thing up. But when they find that the cover-up unites them and brings harmony to their otherwise fractious lives, where’s the incentive to put things right? 12yrs+. Tue 3-Sat 7 Apr. GOLDILOCKS Using tabletop puppetry and musical influences from around the world, a production brings this classic story to life with a twist. 2-5yrs. Wed 4 -Thu 5 Apr. RUBY RED TELLS TALES Join Ruby and her friend Ella in a magical fairytale world. With humour, live music and the real words of small children. 3-5yrs. Tue 10-Sun 15 Apr. EGG & SPOON A highly interactive production for children under 5 and their family, where you can rock and roll around the clock to our lullaby or crawl into the middle and be a star. 5yrs and under.

PEACOCK THEATRE Portugal Street, Holborn, London WC2. 0844 412 4322 www.sadlerswells.com

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What’s on 19-22 Apr. A LITTLE PRINCESS, by LONDON CHILDREN’S BALLET The professionalism of the productions, imaginative choreography and star quality of the dancers are all hallmarks of the Company and make LCB a sellout success year after year. Joeley Gibson and Georgina Farrar, from Wandsworth dance school Fancy Footwork have beaten off over 600 other young hopefuls to secure places at London Children's Ballet. Fancy Footwork is based in SW11, SW12 & SW18 and offers tuition in RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap & Modern and an associate programme for the gifted dancer. Take exams and participate in their bi-annual performance at the New Wimbledon Theatre. www.fancyfootwork.co.uk PREMIERE EVENING Thu 19 Apr. 7pm, tickets from £40, book direct from the LCB on 020 8969 1555 PUBLIC PERFORMAMCE Fri 20 Apr. 7.30pm, Sat 21 Apr. 1.30pm & 5.30pm and Sun 22 Apr. 12.30pm & 4.30pm. Tickets from £14 (£50 limited number superseats).

murder and mayhem HORRIBLE HISTORIESBARMY BRITAIN explores stories from Roman, Tudor, Stuart, Georgian, Victorian and WW1 periods and features famous characters such as Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, Florence Nightingale and General Earl Haig. £14.50, £12.50, £10. 6yrs+

Easter entertainers at Hop Farm

CINE LUMIERE/ INSTITUT FRANCAIS 17 Queensberry Place, London SW7 2DT 020 7871 3515 www.institut-francais.org.uk Sun 29 Apr. JACKIE AND THE HORRIBLE FAMILY 3pm, in (easy) French and English. The young Jackie is sad because her parents are arguing. She goes to the land of the giants to ask for an advice to her friend 'Gentil', the kind giant. But on her way, she meets 'les Affreux", the family of the mean giants... Wonderful and entertaining performance specially adapted for primary school children wishing to progress further with French language and culture. 5-11yrs. £8.

EVENTS WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR LONDON – THE MAKING OF HARRY POTTER www.wbstudiotour.co.uk Near Watford, 20 miles North-West of London and less than 3 miles from the M1 and M25 motorways. A fantastic opportunity to journey behind-thescenes and experience the magic that has gone into creating the most successful film series of all time. See firsthand the sheer scale and detail of the actual sets, costumes, animatronics, special effects and props used in all eight of the Harry Potter films. £28 adults, £21children, £83 family. Tickets must be booked in advance via the website www.wbstudiotour.co.uk or through approved tour operators. 8

GARRICK THEATRE 2, Charing Cross Road, London WC2 0HH 0844412 4662 www.barmybritainlive.com UNMISSABLE EASTER TREAT! HORRIBLE HISTORIES – BARMY BRITAIN Written by Terry Deary, Neal Foster and Ciaran McConville. Wed to Fri 1pm, Sat 10.30am & 12noon, Sun 3pm & 5pm. British history is full of barmy people who did nasty things to each other. With blood, battles,

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What’s on THE HOP FARM FAMILY PARK Maidstone Road, Beltring, Paddock wood. Tonbridge TN12 6PY (just 40 miles from Central London) 01622 872 068 www.thehopfarm.co.uk 31 Mar-15 Apr. A whole host of eggciting activities: including the chance to see cute spring animals and daily Easter Egg hunts. Lots of entertaining things to do, most of the attractions are undercover. There will be regular encounters with new spring animals including lambs and bunnies and the fluffy chicks in the Animal Farm! Also Sing-alongs, live Puppet Shows and Farmyard Party Dances. Other attractions include the Giant Jumping Pillows, The Magic Factory, Children’s Driving School and Pirate Cove.

BATTERSEA PARK CHILDREN’S ZOO Battersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate, London SW11 020 7924 5826 www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk 10am-4.30pm. Adult £7.95, children (2-15) £6.50, family £26. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Usual entrance fee applies for activities. 31 Mar-8 Apr. EASTER EGG HUNT! Around the zoo, animals are guarding Easter Eggs, purchase a quiz sheet upon entry & use the clues to work out where they are. £1.50 (includes prize) Usual entrance fee applies. Tue 3 & Thu 5 Apr. MAKE AN EASTER CARD 11am-12.30pm & 1.30pm-3.30pm. Drawing, colouring & sticking fun! £1. Tue 10 Apr. RABBIT DAY! Help the keeper to feed the rabbits. Rabbit Story-Time: 11.45am & 3.15pm . Free. Rabbit Badge & Mask Making: £1. Drop-in sessions: 11am-12.30pm & 1.30pm-3.30pm. Thu 12 Apr. CHICKEN DAY! Chicken Portrait drawing, colouring & feather sticking fun! £1. Chicken Story-Time: 11.45am & 3.15pm. Free. Drop-in sessions: 11am-12.30pm & 1.30pm3.30pm.

SEALIFE LONDON AQUARIUM County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB 9am-8pm. 0871 663 1678 www.visitsealife.com/london £7.50 (16yrs+) £4.98 (3-15yrs) BEHIND THE SCENES TOURS Visitors will have privileged access to the working areas usually closed to the public where they can learn about the extensive breeding, research and conservation

programmes and see how the fish food is prepared! Tickets for the Tour must be purchased with an admission ticket to SEALIFE London Aquarium. SHARK REEF ENCOUNTER The new, extended Shark walk will allow visitors to walk above a stunning shoal if sixteen sharks, including two striking 2.8m brown sharks and a group of 10 sleek black tip reef sharks, as they swim inches beneath. Next stop, come face to face with the sharks in their magnificent pacific display, spanning three floors and dominated by a selection of imposing Easter Island Heads, finally, get ready for some shark myth-busting in the interactive Shark Academy with lots of touchy feely learning.

KEW – ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS £12.50/£14.50, free for under 17s. 020 8332 5655 www.kew.org 31 Mar-15 Apr. KEW’S MAYAN CHOCOLATE ADVENTURE A journey through ancient Mayan culture and the creation of chocolate, with fun filled family days, adventurous trails and some delicious chocolate on offer. Sun 8 Apr. EASTER EGG HUNT around the gardens 30 Mar-15 Apr. Join a Mayan themed self guided interactive family trail around the gardens or take part in a variety of exciting Mayan-themed activities. SPRING AT KEW Come and admire the stunning beauty of over five million bulbs blooming!

SYON PARK Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 8JF 020 8560 0882 www.syonpark.co.uk Open Wed, Thurs, Sun and Bank Hol Mondays (also Good Fri and Easter Sat) 11am-5pm. £4, £8, £10, family £22. EASTER SUNDAY AND BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY: EASTER TRAIL Look at the clues inside Syon House and outside in the garden. House and Garden adm costs apply.

SNAKES AND LADDERS Syon Park, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 8JF 020 8847 0946 www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk 6-9 Apr. EASTER EGG SCRAMBLE On Easter Saturday children are invited to race around the playframe for hidden Easter Eggs. Plus throughout the Easter weekend they can earn a sweet treat by following the Easter Trail.

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 APRIL: COLOUR LIGHT AND LANDSCAPE. Drawing from themes of the exhibition “Turner Inspired: In The Light of Claude” 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). For children aged 2 to 5: MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING 10.30am-11am & 11.30am-12noon. 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 & 2pm. Young artists explore how National Gallery paintings can be used as inspiration. Take place in the Gallery only. Families can feel free to drop in and out. (80mns) Studio Sundays: 11am & 2pm. Hands-on workshops that start in the Gallery followed by a studio session. (2hrs) BURSTS OF BRIGHTNESS: SUNSETS AND SHIPS Explore glowing suns and illuminated ships, learn how to make two-dimensional boats sail the seven seas of your imagination. Drawing Sunday 1 Apr. FOLD, CRUMPLE, TWIST Discover new and old ways of using paper to make new ideas and create textures through collage and drawings. Drawing Sunday: 15 Apr. PAINTMAKERS How does paint work? Beginning with two very different landscapes, one very rocky and one smooth, move from black and white to colour, exploring pigments and the effect of light. Studio Sunday 22 Apr. WINDMILLS AND COW FLIPS Look into a painting to find beautiful sun and shadow, and create what happens next in pop-up. Drawing Sunday 29 Apr. FAMILY TOUR 12.30pm-1.30pm. Join us on a themed journey through the collection where we will walk, talk and bring paintings alive! Suitable for all ages. 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.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on 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. Mon 2-Fri 6 Apr. EASTER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES Family Art Workshops-Horrible Histories is coming to the Gallery this Easter! Meet the cast of Horrible History-Barmy Britain and come face to face with portraits of the famous historical figures who star in the show. FAMILY EVENTS: Meet in the Ondaatje Wing Main Hall Sat 21 Apr STORYTELLING FOR FAMILIES 10.30am & 1.30pm. Exciting storytelling sessions followed by a fun art activity. 3yrs+ FAMILY ART WORKSHOPS 11.30am & 2.30pm. Explore portraits in the collection, followed by an art activity. 5yrs+. PORTRAIT OF THE DAY 12noon. FAMILY AUDIO GUIDE £6 up to 5 audio players, £4 for 2 audio players (one adult and one child) Explore amazing facts and stories about people in the collection with a specially designed recorded tour and interactive touch-screen players 7-11yrs.

THE WALLACE COLLECTION Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN, 020 7563 9500/ 9551 www.wallacecollection.org 10am-5pm. Free. SPECIAL EVENTS Sun 1 Apr. THE LITTLE DRAW 1.30pm-4.30pm Learn about looking, drawing and interpretation using the rich wealth of objects and architecture on display. Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages. For more info about the “Big Draw” and other workshops, visit www.drawingpower.org.uk Mon 2 Apr. LOUD DAY! ROUND THE WORLD IN ONE MUSEUM 10.30am-12.15pm & 2pm-3.45pm. Discover unexpected treasures from around the world and join in with map reading, post card making and much more in this relaxed workshop where families can make as much noise as they like. Tue 3 Apr. MAD HATTERS EASTER TEA PARTY! 10.30am-12.30pm & 2pm-4pm Try on our historical replica hats and helmets and then create your own headwear with colourful paper, ribbons, feathers and handmade pompomchicks. Celebrate your new spring style with tea and biscuits. £7, 6yrs+ Fri 13 Apr. JEWELS OF SPRINGS:

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WATERCOLOUR PAINTING WORKSHOP 10.30am-3.30pm. First learn the main techniques, then sketch some of the beautiful paintings and develop ideas to incorporate into your final studies. £14, 9-12yrs. DAILY SELF GUIDED ACTIVITIES- NO NEED TO BOOK - FAMILY MULTIMEDIA TOUR with interactive games. Small fee. - FREE ARMOUR HANDLING Daily. Find out what a brigandine is and how heavy a bullet-proof breastplate really was. - FAMILY TRAILS Themed family trails available from the information desk at the front Entrance.

MORDEN HALL PARK A 125 acre (50 hectare) National Trust property in Morden. Free to enter, open 365 days a year and attracts over 750 000 visitors a year. www.ntationaltrust.org.uk/main/wmordenhallpark-2 Visit the London’s first historic LIVING GREEN VISITOR CENTRE, combining the highest standards of restoration work with the latest energy-efficient technology. The newly restored Victorian stable block is among the most energyefficient historic buildings in the country. The new Centre houses a permanent, interactive exhibition about sustainable green living and renewable energy, a changing exhibition area, craft stalls for local artists, and a small café.

EXHIBITIONS & MUSEUMS THE MUSEUM OF FULHAM PALACE Bishop’s Avenue, London SW6 6EA 020 7610 7165 www.fulhampalace.org The Museum: Open five afternoons each week: Sat, Sun, Mon, Tue & Wed 1pm-4pm Drawing room Café: Weekdays 10am-4pm and weekends 9am-5pm. Gardens: Open daily from dawn to dusk. Until 16 Apr. BISHOP’S PARK: FULHAM’S VICTORIAN OASIS Explore the history, restoration and reinvention of Bishops Park.

WWT WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth's Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT. 020 8409 4400. www.wwt.org.uk Daily 9.30am - 5pm £4.95/ £8.95, under 4s free, family £25. Sat 31 Mar- Sun 15 Apr. EASTER EXTRAVANGANZA Two interactive duckling shows every day: Find out more about the fluffy ducklings and join in with some special duckling games. Watch the newly-hatched ducklings taking their first swims in their very own pool. Our team will be on hand to explain how the ducklings have developed and about their behaviour and habitats. April is the time when wild ducklings start to hatch. Fat, fluffy mallard ducklings chase after their mother across the ponds in the sunshine and stripey Great Crested Grebe chicks hitch a ride on their parents’ backs. -Fun pond dipping sessions: see what you can find swimming around under the surface of the water. - Easter trail (£1) and small prize.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road, London SW7 020 7938 9123. Info: Mon-Fri 020 7942 5000. Sat & Sun 020 7942 5011 www.nhm.ac.uk Mon-Sat: 10am – 5.50pm Sun 11am-5.50pm. Free. From 6 Apr. ANIMAL INSIDE OUT Strip away the flesh and travel on an anatomical safari of the natural world and explore the intricate biology and physiology of some of the world’s most spectacular creature. £6/£9, family £27. To 2 Sept. SCOTT’S LAST EXPEDITION Explore Robert Falcon Scott’s epic Terra Nova expedition to Antarctica, with powerful tales of endurance and many scientific achievements. WHO DO YOU THINK YOU REALLY ARE? For the first time ever, you can bring a dinosaur and an early human to life before your eyes. Guided by Sir David Attenborough, this film uses three independent screens, webcams and specially 8 designed hand-held devices that allow you to take page 36

What’s on part in a virtual journey through your evolutionary past to where extinct creatures will appear to roam around you in the studio. Every day at 15.30, most weekend 11am.8yrs+ DAILY FAMILY ACTIVITIES Weekends and school holidays 11am-5pm. Quieter times are 11am-12noon and after 3pm. Mon-Fri in term time 2.10pm-5pm. Free. Full listing on www.nhm.ac.uk/whats-on

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 To 13 Apr. STEPHEN HAWKING: A 70TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Visitors will discover objects and papers primarily sourced from Hawking’s own archives, the exhibition also features audio, specially recorded by Professor Hawking for the exhibition and a projection of photographs from his life and career. To 30 Apr. ME IN 3D The Craniofacial team from Great Ormond Street Hospital, University College Hospital and the Eastman Dental Hospital and Institute ask visitors to help them with a study investigating the structure of different faces. Visitors can have their photograph taken in 3D and explore what they look like in another dimension. The photographs will form part of a database of 3D images. This will be the largest database of its kind in the world and could help treat patients with facial disfigurement in the future For free family events, special highlights and the IMAX and £D experience, please visit the website.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB info: 020 7379 6344, bkg: 020 7565 7298 www.ltmuseum.co.uk Sat to Thurs 10am-6pm. Fri 11am-6pm. £10/£13, under 16s free. EASTER HOLIDAY FAMILY FUN Mon 2 to Fri 6 Apr and Mon 9 to Fri 13 Apr. STORYTELLING – MONTY MAKES HIS WAY TO LONDON 11am-1.30pm. Meet characters from the past, as they tell the story of Monty the Mole and his adventures in London. Mon 2 to Fri 6 Apr. TIP TOP HATS AND BONNETS 12noon-1.30pm Design your own

Bonnet to take home, once created run back up to the 19th Century gallery to compare. 5yrs+.

BRITISH MUSEUM Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London WC1 3DG 020 7323 8299 www.britishmuseum.org FAMILIES Sun 1 Apr. OLYMPIC CHAMPIONS! 11.30am-15.30pm Use a green screen and Photoshop to make an ancient Greek Olympic champion’s portrait to print and keep. 40mns, free, limited places. Sat 14 Apr. CREATE A COMIC 11.30am3.30pm Turn one of the Museum’s objects into a crazy comic strip to take home. 30/40mns, free, drop-in. Sat 21 Apr. DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY DAY 11.30am-3.30pm Follow photography trails around the Museum, learn to photograph objects or have your picture taken wearing ancient Greek costumes. 20/40mns, free, drop-in. e-newsletter: keep up to date with events and activities for families – sign up online at www.britishmuseum.org/families

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200, www.vam.ac.uk/moc Daily 10am-5.45pm. Free. EXHIBITIONS To 9 Sept. BEAUTIFUL GAMES What makes an athlete successful? How does the latest technology help us to become faster and stronger? And where do we draw the line between fair play and downright cheating? As part of the exhibition, visitors young and old can get their own blood pumping with a white knuckle ride in a virtual skeleton bobsleigh, measure their reaction time with a ‘beat the clock’ test, and throw some moves on an electronic dance floor. EVENTS 30 Mar. WONDERTOTS: SNAKES AND LADDERS 10.30am-12noon and 1pm-2.30pm. Join in the fun with interactive workshops drawn from the Museum’s bumper collection of games. Bookings taken up to 14 days in advance of each session. Under 5s. Sat 31 Mar-Thu 5 Apr & Tue 10 Apr-Sun 15 Apr. WORD UP! 10.30am-4pm. An active re-telling of some popular tales (11am-12noon) then make a mask inspired by your favourite (2pm-4pm) Drop-

in, all ages. Mon 2 Apr. WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY. MAKING SENSE WORKSHOP 12noon-4pm. A day of fun and informative workshops for families with children with autism. More info: please visit the website. Fri 6-Mon 9 Apr. EASTER HOP-ALONG FUN. BOING BOING Join the Bunny Hunt to find out where the Easter Bunny has hidden her chocolate eggs (11am), enjoy an active re-telling of the Bunny Who Found Easter (12noon), make a pop-up Easter Egg Card (2pm-4pm) Drop-in, all ages. Sat 21 Apr. ST GEORGE’S DAY EVENT 11.30am-4pm Live music and dance, storytelling, traditional games and arts & crafts activities. FAMILY BACK PACK FOR UNDER 5s Devised in collaboration with Montessori, the Museum of Childhood has made four new resources for families on their visit. Backpacks suitable for various age groups contain a train map, storybooks, play mats and question sheet. Free.

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM Threadneedle Street, London EC2R 8AH 020 7601 5545 www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. Free. Bank of England

28 Mar-8 Jun. ROYAL CONNECTION – A CELEBRATION OF THE DIAMOND JUBILEE The display will highlight the many connections between the Monarch and the Bank, notably drawing on the wealth of the Bank’s collections to trace the development of the royal portrait on banknotes.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on 2-5 Apr & 10-13 Apr. EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA 10am-4.30pm Follow the treasure trail to find the chicks and eggs hidden in the Museum, then create and decorate your own Easter basket to take home. A chocolate egg for every child and prizes to be won.

DESIGN MUSEUM Shad Thames, City of London SE1 2YD 020 7403 6933 www.designmuseum.org EXHIBITION Until 15 Jul. DESIGN OF THE YEAR 2012 The most innovative and progressive designs from around the world, spanning 7 categories: Architecture, Fashion, Furniture, Graphics, Digital, Transport and Product. The winner will be announced in April. RUNABOUTS KIDS SUNDAY WORKSHOP FOR AGES 5-11 15 Apr 2pm-4.30pm. To coincide with the “Designs of the Year” exhibition, join this transport design workshop to create a model of your own innovative transport solution. 5-11yrs. £4.50/£8.50, price includes entry to exhibitions.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM LONDON Lambeth Road, London SE1 6HZ 10am-6pm 020 7416 5320/5321 www.iwm.org.uk EXHIBITIONS From 5 Apr. A FAMILY IN WARTIME Experience the life on the home front, during the second World War, through the eyes of one London Family; William and Alice Allpress and their ten children. The exhibition will be brought to life through interactive exhibits, photographs, recorded interviews with the family, archive film footage, paintings, personal documents and an intricate model of the Allpress family home. Free. FAMILY EVENTS 6-15 Apr. A FAMILY IN WARTIME 11am -1pm & 2pm-4pm. In these hands on activities, discover how the family coped with the difficulties of living on the home front during the Second World War. Free drop-in. 28-29 Apr. INTRODUCTION TO THE HOLOCAUST 11.30am & 2.30pm. Suitable for children 11yrs and above. Note the Holocaust Exhibition is recommended for children aged 14yrs+ . Free drop-in.

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HT 020 7730 0717 www.nam.ac.uk Daily 10am-5.30pm. Free EXHIBITIONS To 30 Apr. DRAW YOUR WEAPONS - THE ART OF "COMMANDO" COMICS. A colourful and dynamic exhibition exploring the history of the war comic from its initial conception and subject matter to its continuing popularity. Free To 31 Aug. WAR HORSE: FACT & FICTION A new major hands-on exhibition exploring the true history behind the hugely popular “War Horse” novel by Michael Morpugo. Free. FAMILY EVENTS 30 Mar. WAR HORSE LATE – EVENING EXHIBITION VIEWING Visitors can unwind and enjoy a fun evening at this exciting equine exhibition or indulge in a range of delicious drinks and food at the Museum Café War Horse Exhibition until 9pm. Free. National Army Museum 4, 5 & 6 Apr. THE BIG SPRING CLEAN Captain Clean will be identifying the “Agents of Decay” such as woodworm and mites and revealing the ways in which you can defeat them and ensure the Museum’s objects are here for visitors to enjoy for years to come! Hunt for clues and solve puzzles, pick up tips for looking after your family heirlooms. Free. ACTIONS ZONES – VICTORIAN SOLDIERS ACTION ZONE Quizzes, games and hands-on activities help you learn about life as a Victorian Soldier and the part they played in the shaping of Britain’s Empire. Free, in “Changing the World Gallery”. KID’S ZONE Daily 10.10am-5.15pm. This new children’s play area explores aspects of army life from camping to clothing and includes a dedicated soft play space for babies, plus art and crafts, dressing-up costumes, books, interactive toys and panels. Adm charge applies. www.nam.ac.uk/kids

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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PARTIES

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FREE PERSONAL ADS: Ads can also go online If you have unwanted baby goods, prams, or clothes sell them to other families locally. Please log on to www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/personalads If you are looking for childcare or offering your services as an au pair, nanny or housekeeper go to www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/childcareads It is FREE!

To appear here email to: personalads@familiesmagazine.co.uk HOUSEKEEPING/CHILDCARE • Outstanding Childminder SW17, 4 days week place for 0-3 yr old avail June 2012. Term time only. I also pick up from Furzedown Primary School. High quality childcare in a fun environment. Tania's Tots 07946 527 254 • Cleaner available in Battersea, Wandsworth, Ballham or surrounding area. 10 years of experience and very good references. Reasonable rate. Call Nelly 07429 065 544 • Cleaner available in South West London. Please call Amanda on 07916 759 537 • Flexible, energetic, fun and practical nanny /cleaner. I'm

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FOR SALE • Maroon leather, loafer style shoes, air cushioned soles, size 6, new £30; 020 8682 0771 • Guitar, excellent condition, £20. Sylvanian Families houses, excellent condition, various prices. Tel: 07990 580 578

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Phone Sean on 020 8764 6705, 07932 723010 (leave message) sean.flood@hotmail.co.uk seanguitartuition.com

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

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PAINTERS & DECORATORS General Building Maintenance

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HOLIDAYS HOLIDAY FLAT IN PROVENCE Vaugines (Luberon), 30 min from Aix/ Marseille. In the centre of an historical village a flat on the first floor, accommodation for 2 to 5 people. One room with double bed, and mezzanine two small beds. Huge living room looking on to the Durance valley. Perfect pied a terre to visit and discover this part of Provence. Price 400 Euros/week Dep 250 Euros. Please contact l.metge@hotmail.com Ring us 00 33 474 67 59 17 fax 00 33 474 67 50 29.

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