Families London SW Issue 214 JanFeb 2012 by Families Magazine

Families SW – useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in SW London. Jan/Feb 2012 Iss

ISSN ue 21 2 135 4-95 Est 53 19

Free ! 90.

South West

The French Nursery school Bilingual education in SW7 and SW1 • 2-5 years French • Spanish See our advert on page 30 For more information please call on 0207 259 2151 or email:

Picture credit Next www.next.co.uk

marie-laurence@thefrenchnurseryschool.com

Competitions & much more online! FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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Jan/Feb 2012

SouthWest

Contents

Picture credit: www.Next.com

04-05

06-07

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@families magazine.co.uk Events, diary dates, whats on info: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

10-11

Families Campaign 10-11

New Year update From your local playgroups and various classes

16-17

Baby page It can be tough, but there’s help out there

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

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Empowering mum

New report by charity Mobilewise calls for action to protect children’s health

• MOVING? Families® magazines can be be franchised in new areas. Read initial franchise information on the website or call.

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.

Community Spirit

The forgotton power of touch

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06-07

Families takes a look at the green and ethical events and issues that are shaping where we live

Next issue: March 2012 Deadline: early February

•There are over 36 UK local editions with a print run of more than 600,000 copies in all, in which you can advertise too. Oh, and we have a big website… familiesonline.co.uk

Local news & information

18-20

Travel feature All aboard for summer 2012

23-34

NURSERY FEATURE

23-34

• Our guide to finding the best nursery • Local nursery news • Early years education funding cuts • Nursery advertising

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35-41

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News

Little soldiers Have you been to the new Kids Zone at the National Army Museum yet? An exciting play area for 0-8 year olds, recently opened, the Zone explores aspects of army life from camping to clothing. It includes a dedicated soft-play space for babies plus arts and crafts, dressing-up costumes, books, interactive toys and panels. It also has forest- and arctic-themed climbing frames for kids to scale, slide and run through. Open daily 10.10am to 5.15pm with six 1-hour sessions per day. £2.50 per child, under 1s are free. www.nam.ac.uk/kids

Calm Baby

Looking after baby… Most of us take antenatal classes to prepare ourselves for giving birth, but it can be a real shock when you actually get home from hospital with your adorable bundle. For many parents, it can be one of the toughest and most tiring times of their lives. A new company set up by a local mum aims to prepare you not only for these early days but for the years ahead with your child. The Baby Care Company shares real life parental experiences through a series of classes, preparing you for what's to come. Courses cost £70 per session, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings in Clapham, Balham and Battersea. Call 020 7228 1041 or go to www.thebabycarecompany.co.uk

The yoga experience If you’ve got a jelly tummy left over from carrying your little bundle of fun check out www.yogabellies.co.uk YogaBellies is a UK-wide group of pre- and postnatal yoga teachers and instructors, working with mums to help them achieve gentle births and peaceful parenting. They use breathing techniques for pregnancy and birth, classical yoga to help ease pregnancy discomforts and deep relaxation and self-hypnosis for birth. YogaBellies teachers are all accredited by the Independent Yoga Network and are fully qualified yoga teachers as well as FEDANT-approved antenatal educators, and they are the only organisation to offer antenatal education with classical yoga to enable peaceful birthing.

Meet with the little ones Sports on Saturday ‘Saturday Sports Club’ is a brand new afternoon sports club for children aged 4-11, run by Solidarity Sports. Sessions are 1-4pm at St Cuthbert with St Matthias Primary School, Warwick Road, Earl’s Court, SW5 9UE. £5 per child per week, including a variety of drills, skills, fun and games. Includes lunch. Contact Sean Mendez on 07958 599 922 or email info@solidaritysports.org. www.solidaritysports.org

A new group has been set up by NCT Kensington & Chelsea Toddler Group – meet local mums and let your little one run riot at The Garden playspace in The Science Museum, Exhibition Road, SW7 2DD. Meet in the picnic area just outside The Garden playspace from 3pm every Wednesday, where a designated NCT volunteer will greet you. NCT members and non-members are welcome – contact toddlersnctkensington@yahoo.co.uk or call 0844 243 0007. Admission free. www.nct.org.uk/branches/kensingtonchelsea/parent-support/toddler-group

Prepare for a more comfortable, empowering birth experience with HypnoBirthing® with www.calmbirthcalmbaby.com New courses in birthing and antenatal classes, as well as baby massage and breastfeeding classes are available across South West and South East London, teaching you how to achieve easy, comfortable and natural childbirth, with many mothers experiencing little or no pain. HypnoBirthing® offers a philosophical approach to childbirth that works with the belief that pain is not necessary and that a woman’s body is perfectly designed to give birth to a baby. The techniques taught during the course enable parents to release fears and to embrace the birth of their baby, allowing them to achieve the natural, calm and comfortable birth they have prepared for.

Something to smile about Check out the new range of baby and children’s tops from local Clapham Mum and graphic designer Kate Emamooden. MooKa clothes are designed to appeal to small children, instead of aiming to amuse or impress adults. The T-shirts feature bold colours and simple, cheerful images, a world away from the brand logos and clever slogans only grown-ups understand. The range also includes leggings and hooded tops. Available from www.mookakids.com and www.notonthehighstreet.com

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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Artwork to eat out of Are you looking for a unique idea for your little one’s artwork? Set up by two local mums, Polka Dot Plates transforms children's designs into high quality plastic melamine plates, trays and aluminium water bottles. You can do anything from simple drawings or handprints to photographs, signatures, hand-written messages and school crests. Check out www.polkadotplates.co.uk to see the fabulous Polka Face Kids products and gorgeous hand-painted designs.

No more waiting in A new London-based company offers families a convenient way to manage their more inconvenient domestic appointments. No more relying on a friendly neighbour or grandparent to stay home and wait for that delivery – now let www.waitingin.co.uk do the waiting in, so you don’t have to. Whether it’s letting in a plumber or taking delivery of a sofa, the team of reliable, vetted and fully insured sitters are available for full day or half day bookings across London. Prices start at £60 for a half day, with no monthly subscriptions or membership fees. Call 0845 519 8080 or go to www.waitingin.co.uk

Art Accolades The Study Preparatory School in Wimbledon has long been renowned for its academic success and highly creative ethos, and now it has had great success in two prestigious local competitions. The Wimbledon Bookfest Young Writers’ Competition 2011 saw just twelve winners across the Borough, with Study Prep student Alexandra Williams winning one of the top prizes. And, once again, The Study’s talented artists have been recognised at the ISA’s London West Art Competition with the school winning four 1st places, for Art, Design, Drawing and Photography. “I am delighted by these wonderful accolades,” said Susan Pepper, Headmistress, “which underscore how much The Study not only brings out the best in our girls’ academic achievement, but also recognises how important creative expression is in a child’s development.” www.thestudyprep.co.uk

Cool kids who can rock! Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes are expanding their SW London centres and opening exciting and creative electronic keyboard lessons at St Francis de Sales Church Hall, 26 Larkhall Lane, London SW4 6SP from March 2012. Beginners (5-8 years) learn to read and write music and master the keyboard in fun packed 1-hour group classes after school. A relaxed, fun approach ensures maximum enjoyment with lively games, composition and first-rate music tuition. Call 0800 107 7949, email mail@funkymonkey.info or visit www.funkymonkey.info

Funding has been secured for the first step to further improve the Greater Thames Estuary, as the RSPB invests £4m in a pioneering new approach towards conservation. Dubbed Futurescapes, the initiative will see projects springing up across the country. Within each Futurescape, conservationists will work with farmers, landowners, local authorities and communities to support and improve the environment for people and wildlife. The Greater Thames Futurescape covers an area from Tower Bridge in London and out into the estuary mouth beyond Southend-on-sea, and will work to improve the river and countryside as well as restoring a rich habitat for coastal wildlife including common seals and over-wintering wildfowl.

Sign, baby, sign Two local mums have recently set up a Baby Sign Language Franchise in SW London. Little Signers Club runs 10-week courses in Battersea, Clapham and Balham and are the only franchise offering Baby Signing in the local area. Signing with your baby is simple and straightforward, and helps with pre-speech communication, bonding and development. So if your baby is between 518 months come along and join them! Contact Nikki on 07823 336487 or Louise on 07702 184534. http://www.littlesignersclub.co.uk/louiseand-nikki.htm

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Credit: Mike Lane, RSPB Images

Tide turns for Thames

Winter plumaged red-throated diver

Community spirit

How to make a positive impact on local life Compiled by Samantha Chippindale

Park life Vauxhall Park has an exciting new year planned When Albert Prince of Wales opened Vauxhall Park, SW8 in 1890, the area around the 8.5-acre site bore little resemblance to the congestion of roads and houses that now surround it, which make this oasis all the more precious to the people who use it. The Friends of Vauxhall Park work to keep the park in peak condition, and have won four consecutive Green Flag Awards for their efforts. Their annual general meeting on January 21st is the ideal chance for locals to find out what is planned for the park and to become friends themselves (£5 per family). The Friends are working to establish an orchard, the fruit from which will to go to a homeless hostel, and are fundraising for picnic tables to be designed by people from the community. Meanwhile, helpers are needed for the annual Easter Egg Hunt and summer fair. Visit www.vauxhallpark.org.uk

Watch the birdie! Pen and paper at the ready, the RSPB needs you You don’t have to be a seasoned twitcher, or even own a pair of binoculars, to join in the RSPB’s annual Big Garden Birdwatch. The RSPB relies on spotters young and old, on their own or in groups, to count the number of birds of different species sitting in their gardens or local parks over a period of one hour on either January 28th or 29th. Visit www.rspb.org.uk for instructions and to download an identification chart if needed.

Credit: Nigel Blake/RSPB Images

Meals on wheels

New Year healthy eating resolutions apply to your children, too Since its foundation in Acton, the excellent Kid’s Cookery School has brought fun, fresh cookery teaching to children in the west. Now, the mobile kitchen means the school can reach families, schools, Brownies clubs, special needs and community groups all over the south west as well, even at weekends and during holidays. “Lots of families don’t often do things together and cooking is one of them,” says founder Fiona Hamilton-Fairley, who is as keen on encouraging family involvement and knowledge about budgeting for food as she is on teaching children about healthy food and how to cook it. For prices, and to book the mobile kitchen, which comes fully equipped and staffed by a chef and assistant, visit www.thekidscookeryschool.co.uk.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Community spirit

Down on the farm A city farm in SW19 gives children a valuable muck-andwellies experience Dean City Farm offers city dwellers a vibrant connection with farm animals and where our food comes from at its five-acre site on the National Trust’s Morden Hall Park Estate. The farm packs in an all-embracing educational programme for children and adults, with farm tours, the chance to see and feed the animals, including sheep, alpacas and pigs, and to learn about growing vegetables. You can even learn to ride a horse. The farm offers an after school Farm Club as well as a youth club for 8–15-year olds. Children are encouraged to get messy and get busy for Own a Pony for a Day, and on Young Farmer Days, while both of which teach them about caring for animals. The Growing Gardens Community Project allows visitors to grow their own and has an important role offering therapy through horticulture for those with physical and mental health problems. Dean City Farm is a registered charity, so while visiting is free, donations are genuinely needed. See www.deancityfarm.co.uk for full details.

A little time and effort Being a good neighbour is easier than you think

Act your age A small theatre company has children acting up in the right way Daniel Pollendine, who runs the Artisans Community Theatre, is a teacher and actor who brings his experience of community theatre to his weekly theatre school for seven-to11-year-olds. Based in the Trinity Congregational Church in Brixton, the lively class meets weekly to rehearse, working on monologues, improvisation and physical theatre. “The kids are great, very focussed,” says Pollendine. “If new kids think they are going to mess around, the class let them know they’ve got another think coming.” Pollendine is hoping to expand to include an older group in 2012, while keeping to the multicultural agenda – and the admirably low cost of each class. “It grows slowly,” says Pollendine, “you create a community link for people to come and get to know each other.” Find out more via www.bigintent.com

The average Londoner doesn’t know their neighbour’s name, so it takes an additional leap of faith to volunteer to help them when needed. Fulham Good Neighbours Service has been doing just that since 1966. Focussing on giving assistance to the elderly and those with mental illnesses and disabilities, the service survives thanks to volunteer helpers, who can give as little as one hour every other week. At this time of year, the service is keen to hear from anyone who can do some light garden maintenance for those with gardens who can’t manage the upkeep themselves. Get on your gardening gloves and contact www.fgns.easynet.co.uk

HAPKIDO SELF DEFENCE classes available for children, teenagers and adults. Dan Jun breathing, Kicks, punches, throws, joint-locks, tumbles, jumps and breakfalls. NEW: Little Samurai’s class for children aged 3.5 - 5yrs Hapkido teaches: •Respect •Fitness •Discipline •Confidence •Control & sensitivity •Inner calm & peace •Defence •Strength & agility Instructor: Jon Bailie, 2nd Dan Qualified Hapkido Instructor and fully insured Classes available @ Battersea Spiritualist Church SW11, St Luke's Community Hall SW12, Broomwood Hall SW11, The Contact Centre SW4 and other venues

For all enquiries/bookings, please call on

07932 667 336 Private tuition/home visits also available

www.semokwan-hapkido.co.uk

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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

Venues: Contact: Times: Ages:

Clapham, Dulwich, Blackheath & Battersea. Julia Forrest. Tel: 020 8464 4433 julia.forrest1@ntlworld.com Variousâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;phone for details in your area. 6 months to 5 years.

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Empowering mum

The forgotten power of touch By Helena Foss

When it comes to empowering parents to take good care of their families and, just as importantly, themselves, it is easy to overlook the simple power of touch. But there is plenty you can do at home with a spare 15 minutes and a willing pair of hands. Our local massage practitioners explain how.

Slowing down

Karlene Wong at Precious Care

“In our fast-paced world with television, computer games and all manner of audio-visual entertainment, we forget how important touch is,” says Sara Wood, who runs a home visit service and a private practice at the Awareness Centre in Clapham, specialising in pregnancy, birth and post-natal support. Sara is also trained to encourage optimal foetal positioning and turn breech babies, which can pre-empt all kinds of complications in labour. “It is lovely to meet my clients’ babies and children, and show them massage routines to use at home,” she says, from encouraging a restful night’s sleep to alleviating colic (see her colic massage routine below), asthma and all manner of common childhood conditions.

Primal bonding

Sibling bonding

Not only does massage help mothers bond with and calm their babies, it can alleviate post natal depression (PND) too. Previously a community nursery nurse, Karlene Wong is a certified infant massage instructor who runs both state funded and private baby massage courses in Merton and across southwest London. “Motherhood can be such a shock,” she says, “and without support, especially working or single mothers can really struggle.” It is the mix of hormonal changes and feelings of helplessness, overwhelm and isolation, she says, that seem to trigger PND. Depressed mothers find it harder to bond with their babies and pick up their cues, so the baby can become more distressed and needy. “It is great for these women to leave their chores behind and practice nurturing touch for an hour. Baby massage has been proven to stimulate growth hormones, improve muscle tone and weight gain, reduce stress hormones and boost endorphins. In fact, it has been shown to raise oxytocin and prolactyn (the love and bonding hormones) not just of the one giving the massage but of other people in the room too.”

Lorraine Gaughan, an aromatherapy massage practitioner with two boys aged seven and 13, started massaging her eldest son when she found he was pushing her away and being unaffectionate. “As they get older, boys especially like to think they don’t need their parents,” she explains. “My eldest wouldn’t talk to me but once I massaged him, his worries would just come tumbling out.” Lorraine has taught her sons to massage both her and each other, which nips sibling rivalry in the bud. “They know that if they argue, they have to massage each other,” she says. “And you know what? It works every time.”

Karlene finds massage is a great way to bond with her children, two boys aged eight and ten. “Children are very much kinaesthetic learners up until the age of 12,” she says. “Studies show they are much more likely to take in praise if it is given with a hug or pat on the back, than without. I find that having quality therapeutic touch time with my children means I get a lot more conversation out of them. They often ask me for a massage. It has become an integral part of our family life.”

Beyond words

Seeing as young children are primarily kinaesthetic learners, it makes sense to bring massage into schools. As well as running her own workshops, Lorraine is a Massage in Schools Association instructor, teaching children to massage each other in class (while clothed). Schools report that the programme reduces bullying, increases concentration and boosts wellbeing and self-esteem, as well as being fun for the children and creating a calmer classroom environment for teachers.

All the therapists agree that it is important to have close bonding time with our children, kind of like chimps sitting around, picking insects out of each other’s fur. If anything, Lorraine adds, we tend to talk to our children too much: “Sometimes just half an hour or even ten minutes of quality touch time can bring about a communication that is far deeper than words.”

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Empowering mum

Sara Wood : Natural Balance Complementary Practitioner

Partner massage for pregnant women by massage therapist Louise Meddar Ask your pregnant partner or friend to lie down comfortably. Using a small amount of almond or rose oil, start at the foot and use long stroking movements towards the top of the thigh and then down again, as many times as you like. (You can use the same movements on the arms and back.) Use thumb and finger movements around the ankles (gently if they are swollen), then move to the feet. Support the heel in one hand and work the sole with thumb frictions. Clasp both hands around the foot and move hands back and forth in a twisting movement not forgetting the toes.

Self massage routine by massage therapist Lorraine Gaughan

Colic and gas relief routine for babies by reflexologist and massage therapist Sara Wood Get your baby warm and comfortable, take a few deep breaths to relax and rest your hands on baby’s tummy. Waterwheel Stroke: Stroke your baby, alternating the whole hand with the pads of the fingers, downwards from the naval to the legs. Repeat six times with each hand. Leg Push: Bring baby’s knees together and push them gently into the tummy. Hold for a slow count of six. Sun and Moon Stroke: With both hands on baby’s tummy, one hand moves in a clockwise full circle, whilst the other moves in a clockwise circle, from around 10 to 5 o’clock. Then repeat the leg push. Repeat the whole routine three times, several times a day for at least two weeks.

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Shampooing: Rub your scalp as if you are shampooing your hair with the whole of the hand. Tugging: Keeping your knuckles close to the scalp, grasp fistfuls of hair at the roots and gently tug the hair from side to side. Squeezing: With the heel of your hand squeeze the temples and, with slow, wide circular movements, move from the temples around to the back of the head. Gliding: Place your right hand on the left side of your neck and firmly glide down to the shoulder. Repeat three times. Kneading: From the base of your neck, gently squeeze the shoulder, working all the way down to your elbow. Work back up again and repeat three times. Friction Rubbing: With the heel of your hand, vigorously rub the forearm until it is warm and tingly. Thumb Circles: Use circular thumb movements on the palm of the hand, pressing deeply from the centre of the palm outwards.

Finger Workout: With the thumb and fourth finger rub in circular movements from the knuckle to each finger tip. Wriggle and jiggle each finger, finishing off by gently pulling each one. Gliding: With slow, fluid movements and working upwards, glide your whole hands up and down the legs. Repeat several times. Knobbly Knee: Stroke the outside of the kneecap, then use circular pressure movement with fingertips to work deeper around the kneecap. Thigh Kneading: With slow, fluid movements, knead the fleshy part of the upper thigh upwards towards the groin. Cat Stroke: Gently work up and down the legs, as if you are stroking a cat. Sandwich Stroke: Bring one foot over the other leg. Sandwich the foot with your hands and stroke up and down the foot. Toe Workout: As the Finger Workout, above. Then wriggle and jiggle and gently pull each toe.

Further Information • Sara Wood: 07970 729738 • Karlene Wong at Precious Care: 07961 733846. www.preciouscare.co.uk • Lorraine Gaughan: 07910 114153

• Louise Meddar: 07957 555164 • Massage In Schools Association: www.massageinschoolsassociation.org.uk • Pregnancy massage at home Louise 07957 555164

Families Campaign

New report by charity Mobilewise calls for action to protect children’s health At Families, we urge parents to use a precautionary approach

When you can, use a corded landline, especially for long chats.

Long term effects still unclear

New report by charity Mobilewise calls for action It is good to have the reassurance that your child can call home in an emergency when out and about, but our children are so technologically savvy these days, it can be difficult to discourage them from becoming mobile phone addicts. According to a Council of Europe resolution in June 2011 however, children should only use mobile phones when absolutely necessary.* This is now backed up by a new report from the mobile safety campaigning charity Mobilewise. Drawing on 200 peer-reviewed scientific studies, the charity outlines evidence of possible harm from mobile phone radiation; citing symptoms from poor sleep, hyperactivity and lowered fertility, to an increased risk of cancer and fragmenting DNA. The charity is calling on the government and manufacturers take action in order to protect children’s health.

Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, mobile phone technology did not get put through extensive safety trials before being allowed on the open market. This means that the research on the longterm effects of mobile radiation is being assessed as we go along. So we still have no clear idea of what this will be. When you consider that children’s skulls are thinner and absorb more radiation than adults, and that their brains and nervous systems are still developing, it makes sense to err on the side of caution. What Mobilewise finds particularly concerning is the assumption that mobile phone use is safe for all ages; that there are phone apps for babies that turn the device into a high tech rattle. The report highlights a clear lack of guidance from phone manufacturers. Any health warnings for children, teens or pregnant mothers are buried deep in the small print. As for babies, it appears they are not mentioned at all.

International Health Warnings

Text whenever a text will do. Use a headset, or the built in speakerphone on your mobile if you can. Try not to carry your mobile in your trouser pocket when it is on. Use your coat, jacket pocket or better still, a bag. Don’t sleep with a mobile phone next to you. Better still, turn it off at night. Avoid using mobiles in cars, buses or trains when the signal is low. They power up hard to connect to the network. (children should be discouraged from playing on WIFI devices on long car journeys) Keep mobiles away from babies, unless they are switched off. (But note some smart phones still emit when turned off) Try a blocsock, a simple phone sleeve to block radiation.

Countries like France, Spain, Russia, Canada and American federal bodies in San Francisco, Maine and Pennsylvania are all taking the evidence seriously and issuing warnings, especially regarding child mobile phone use. But it is not just mobiles we should be concerned about. Mobilewise say that other high frequency radiation devices like cordless landline phones and WiFi also pose health risks. (and of course WIFI in nurseries, think about it ! ed)

• NHS leaflet 2011 says: “As a precaution, the UK Chief Medical Officers advise that children and young people under 16 should be encouraged to use mobile phones for essential purposes only, and to keep calls short.” http://www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/documents/digitalasset/dh_ 124899.pdf Or see Familiesonline.co.uk/radiation to download a copy • A Council of Europe resolution recommended that immediate action was required to protect children. http://assembly.coe.int/main.asp?Link=/documents/workingdocs/doc11/edoc12608.htm June 2011

If you are looking for a place where your little one (from 7 months to 5 years old) can learn Spanish whilst having fun with other children, “Vamos a Jugar” Spanish playgroup offers you this opportunity in a fantastic atmosphere. We are open everyday from 3-5pm (flexible with children arriving after school). Clapham South area. Call Mary for your trial session 07597 671240 or e-mail us at vamosajugar10@yahoo.co.uk

So what can we do? Mobilewise offer the following tips:

The BlocSock® reduces phone SAR levels by over 90% says manufacturer

Further Information - Download the Mobilewise report here: www.mobilewise.org - Learn more about phone radiation and child safety. See the Families archive: www.familiesonline/radiation - www.WiFiinschools.org.uk - www.emfields.org/phones/blocsocks.asp - WIFI in nurseries: Testing a classroom http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FO0AnNH z8vIbb (or watch on www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation)

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

News and updates from your local clubs and classes

Kick away the winter blues… Photo credit Theatrebugs

…with www.ligasoccer.co.uk Tackling childhood obesity is not just about eating better – it’s important to get out there and get active, too. Raise your child’s heart rate and support their physical literacy with 60 minute Ligasoccer football classes in Wimbledon, South Kensington and Richmond. Ligasoccer classes introduce smallsided Match Play for maximum exposure to football – not only fun but also develops superskills. www.kiddikicks.co.uk

New year offer Take advantage of the specialist experience and qualifications of local cranial osteopath Julia Finlay. www.claphamfamilyosteopath.co.uk are offering a one-and-a-half hour New Year Mother and Baby post-natal check for £50 (usual price £75) throughout January. Passionate about the

Confidence through creativity Join Theatrebugs this term for an action-packed all-singing, all-dancing, all-acting after school club that will really knock your socks off. From 4-5pm your child will become a dinosaur, space rocket or caterpillar, they’ll visit the moon and dive under the sea and who knows what else could happen. One thing is for certain - they’ll have a bucket load of fun while you watch their confidence bloom! Classes in Clapham, Barnes and Kingston, ages 3-6. Book your free trial now on 0800 975 5290. www.theatrebugs.co.uk

Live to perform Now your child can focus on the 4 C’s: Confidence, Communication, Co-ordination and Concentration at Perform, a new type of children’s drama school. Using a unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential, their classes are small and children receive plenty of individual attention. Classes are held in Balham, Barnes, Battersea, Chelsea, Clapham, Earlsfield, Fulham, Kensington, Kew, Mortlake, Pimlico, Putney, Richmond, Streatham, Twickenham and Wimbledon. Sign up for a free trial session now on 0845 400 1278. www.perform.org.uk

Spanish for children Why not sign up for new Spanish lessons for children on Saturdays 10-11am or 11.15am12.15pm? Or if your child already has an advanced level of Spanish, try their Wednesday afternoon classes at 4.30pm. Both lessons take place at the Instituto Cervantes, 102 Eaton Square SW1W 9AN. For further information contact the Instituto Cervantes at cenlon@cervantes.es or call 020 7235 0353.

benefits of osteopathy for everyone, Julia treats babies, children (including special needs and developmental delay) and pregnant and post-natal mothers.

Winter adventure Do you fancy your very own adventure playground in your back garden? Designer Max Mueller has been building adventure playgrounds for children for 15 years, dreaming up tree houses, sand and

Perform Live to Perform

Rock n’ roll Kidz’n’Rock is the first real School of Rock in Battersea. Minutes from Clapham Junction train station, it has grown substantially in the past 3 years and now trains children as young as 6 to play in rock bands, as well as organising live gigs and recordings and running after school clubs at two Clapham primary schools. Plus band-mentoring, film productions, instrument tuition, song writing workshops, drama and birthday parties. Check it out! Contact Chris Hayden at kidznrockuk@hotmail.co.uk.

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water areas, underground tunnel networks and real climbing trees. His latest project, Waterside adventure playground in Islington, has won its second national prize at London Play’s Adventure Playground of the Year awards 2011. “We wanted to create a space where children can do what seemed natural to kids of my generation,” says Max, “climb real trees, hide in tunnels, make bonfires and mess around with sand, water and mud.” Max has worked for local authorities, play centres, nurseries and parks departments and has even built tree houses in people’s back gardens. Contact him on 07919 468 867 or max.mueller@virgin.net to commission your own!

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)

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Baby page

It can be tough, but there’s help out there

Drop in centre at Ray’s Playhouse

By Joanna Parry

So, you’ve had a baby. You’re a new mum and of course you’re tired, but you’re also elated and amazed at this tiny new being that has entered your life. You spend every waking hour staring in adoration at their tiny little toes and gorgeous little mouth. Your exhaustion doesn’t matter as you drift from day to day in a haze of milky delight. Or maybe you don’t. If you are like me then those first few weeks, even months of being a new mum are the hardest days of your life. Not only are you exhausted after weeks of unbroken sleep but you’re also struggling with breast feeding and getting your baby to take a bottle, your baby is unsettled and suffers from reflux and why oh why won’t it just go to sleep? Even if it’s your second or third baby, it’s still just as hard. You’ve got baby blues, or perhaps even post-natal depression. Now the most important thing you can do, even if you don’t feel like it, is to get out there, meet some other new mums and get some support.

Support groups If you’re tired, struggling to bond with or feed your baby or have a touch of the baby blues, there are plenty of support networks out there. • Health visitors – health visitors are there for the welfare of babies and their parents, and your health visitor should support you in whatever way they can. They should get in touch with you in the first few days of you returning home from hospital, but if you don't know how to reach your Health Visitor your doctor's surgery will be able to tell you. • Home-Start is a charity that helps parents by providing volunteer support. Whether you’re struggling to look after your baby or suffering from postnatal illness or even just feeling lonely and isolated, Home-Start can help. Volunteers offer regular support, friendship and practical help to young families under stress in their own homes. The visits are flexible and you decide together what to do during that time. Call 08000 68 63 68 for details of your local Home-Start. • Children's Centres (also called the SureStart programme) have been developed throughout England to help parents, with many offering support groups for new mums as well as stay and play sessions, baby clubs, postnatal and breastfeeding classes. Find your nearest centre at http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents • NCT runs Bumps, Babies and Beyond groups across the country, where you can make friends and share experiences with other new mums, and support is provided. Excellent local groups are in Wimbledon Park Pavilion and St Michael’s Church, SW11. • Drop-in centres, playgroups and baby groups offer vital postnatal support and advice. Most importantly, they don’t cost more than a pound or two. Good local ones include the Parsons Green Health Visitors Drop in Clinic at Ray's Playhouse, every Tuesday 9.30-11.30am, 247 Stephendale Road, SW6. Ray’s Playhouse is also run by qualified staff who can refer mums for further help if necessary. Also, try Bishops Park Children’s Centre, Fulham Palace Grounds, SW6, which offers informal support and advice, Tuesdays 1:30pm - 3:30pm, and St Margaret’s Baby Group at St Margaret’s Church Hall, Putney Park Lane, SW15, where new mums can meet and relax, Fridays 3-5pm. Also, Balham Community Centre Baby Group, 91 Bedford Hill, SW12, Tuesdays 10-11.30am, Cheeky Champs at BAC, Lavender Hill, SW11, Thursdays 9am, and ABC, St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Terrace, SW6, Fridays 10-11.30am. The brilliant One O’Clock centres that run throughout South West London are a vital resource too.

www.yogabugs.com

Find more local support groups and playgroups at: www.hammersmithandfulham.childrencentres.org www.wandsworthlittlefeet.nhs.uk www.batterseapark.org/html/oneclockclub.html www.wandsworth.gov.uk/info/200016/childcare/330/one_oclock_centres www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fis www.nct.org.uk www.bac.org.uk/whats-on/bees-knees www.raysplayhouse.org

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Baby page

Postnatal depression

Meet a mum and join a class

Postnatal Depression (PND) is often not fully understood by mums who experience it, yet one in three mothers will suffer from it. Becoming a parent can be a shock and it is perfectly normal to feel emotional, vulnerable and sensitive after your baby is born. Some mothers may feel confused about their feelings they feel they should be overjoyed and instantly fall in love with their baby but this is not always the case, especially if you’ve had a difficult labour or a traumatic delivery. Baby blues typically occur between 3-5 days after the birth, and one theory is that they coincide with the hormonal changes that occur as the breast milk starts to come in. Another theory is that they are due to the 'come down' after the effects of endorphins, or a sort of physical shock reaction after the upheaval of birth. You may feel weepy, irritable, have a low mood and feel that you lack confidence in being able to look after your baby but these feelings usually subside after a week or so. However, postnatal depression is more serious and must be treated immediately.

Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a coffee at Starbucks or a mother-and-baby group it’s important to get out there and meet other new mums. The NCT arrange regular coffee mornings and local playgroups often arrange get-togethers outside of the playgroup. You don’t have to ‘join’ these groups or come every time, but you’ll be sure to get a warm welcome and you will find these meet-ups invaluable, I promise you. Alternatively, join a class. This will give you an opportunity not only to meet other mums but also to bond with your baby.

Symptoms of PND can include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

sleeping problems crying a lot not eating or over-eating physical pains such as headaches or stomach pains or blurred vision a lack of motivation to get up and do anything a constant sense of anxiety, sometimes escalating into panic attacks a feeling of being lonely or isolated having difficulty concentrating feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope having no interest in sex feeling guilty about everything and wondering if you are a bad mother being overly protective of your baby feeling emotionally disconnected from your baby having frightening thoughts about harming yourself or your baby or about bad things happening

If you feel any of the above, it is important to seek professional help. Your GP may suggest antidepressant medication and/or counselling and your health visitor will know about local postnatal depression support groups. You can also go to www.apni.org or www.birthtraumaassociation.org.uk for information, support and advice. Also, tell your family and close friends, as talking about your feelings is part of the cure. Free help is available locally at www.cocoon.uk.com

• Start with a baby massage class, where simple massage techniques help stimulate your baby's senses. Many local health services run free massage classes and there are plenty of private classes around too, often including postnatal support alongside baby massage. Baby massage has also been proven to help enormously with mums suffering from postnatal depression. Local classes that offer baby massage with support for new mums include www.shiny-happy-babies.co.uk, newbabycompany.com, www.meandmybabyclinic.co.uk, www.preciouscare.co.uk, www.barnesbabymassage.co.uk, http://blueberrybean.drupalgardens.com/ and http://baby-steps.co.uk • Baby yoga is also a great way to encourage baby-parent interaction. A natural transition from baby massage it incorporates stretching, relaxation and yoga techniques, enabling you and your baby to create a joyful interaction. There are many baby yoga classes across the UK, but one company that runs classes throughout the country is www.yogabugs.com. Local classes can be found at http://www.meandmybabyclinic.co.uk and www.preciouscare.co.uk • Activity classes. These don’t have to be expensive, so shop around. Choose from music classes to drama to sensory stimulation classes – even for newborns! It’s a great way to get out of the house, meet other new mums and compare notes. Find classes for young babies at www.perform.org.uk, www.amandasactionclub.co.uk, www.monkeymusic.co.uk, www.aquatots.com, and local ones www.babysensory.com, www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk and www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/Directory Helpful websites www.nct.co.uk www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents www.nhs.uk www.home-start.org.uk wandsworthlittlefeet.nhs.uk www.theparentpractice.com www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/whatson Subscribe to our FREE what’s on newsletter for local events and things to do: www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/ register4newsletter Support for twins www.twinsuk.co.uk www.tamba.org.uk

Treat yourself

www.cupcakemum offer spa treatments as well as a range of classes and support groups for new mums

If you feel up to it, get a babysitter for an hour or two and treat yourself to some quality ‘me’ time. Try a day spa such as Bliss London www.blissworld.co.uk, Cowshed Carnaby www.cowshedonline.com, The Spa at Bluebird www.theshopatbluebird.com/category/spa-and-beauty or Urban Retreat at Harrods www.urbanretreat.co.uk/harrods for a pampering and revitalising treatment. Yummy Mummy clubs such as www.cupcakemum offer spa treatments as well as a range of classes and support groups for new mums, with a crèche onsite. Alternatively, take a walk in the park with a hot chocolate. It will do you the world of good!

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Travel feature

All aboard for summer 2012 By Joanna Moorhead

It’s the depths of winter, so every family’s thoughts naturally turn to where they will be this summer. Joanna has lots of ideas – and Families editors share their best holiday experiences ever. Poppyland Holiday cottages

Chilly Powder

Selectcamp

The Alps in August They aren’t just for skiing: in fact, the Alps can be one of the loveliest places in Europe for a summer holiday en famille. As well as beautiful weather, there’s a wealth of sporty things to do for both smaller children and teenagers. Chilly Powder runs its Morzine chalet hotel through the summer as well as the winter, offering the same attractions (professionally-cooked food, childcare etc) and with the emphasis on comfortable living alongside a wealth of outdoor pursuits. Morzine is an eight-hour drive from Calais, or fly to Geneva and hire a car; the chalet has 17 bedrooms and there’s even a hot tub in the garden. Perfect for: sporty families with children in different age ranges Midsummer prices: from around £120 per adult per night, discount for children, half-board Website: www.chillypowder.com

Affordable luxury – and abroad too

Away from the crowds in Norfolk

Glamping is the way to go: much more reasonable prices than villas or hotels, and a wide range of family-friendly sites. And what’s new on the glamping block for 2012 is an ever-widening range of top-notch accommodation: for 2012, Selectcamp has a new range of what it’s calling its ‘lodge suites’ featuring a canopy bed, free-standing oval bath, fully-equipped kitchen, shower and toilet – and a separate junior lodge tent next to the main suite. Selectcamp also has four new sites, three in Italy and one in Spain – and coming soon, a brand new website which should make browsing and booking a lot easier too. Perfect for: Budget-conscious, adventurous families Midsummer prices: from around £24 per person, per night Website: www.selectcamp.co.uk

If you love Cornwall and Devon, but are frustrated by the prices and the crowds, why not head instead for Norfolk? Cottage prices for midsummer are cheaper, it will take you less time to get there and it’s much easier to get to and from the beaches and other attractions because the roads are far less clogged. For a comfortable, child-friendly cottage look on the Recommended Family Holidays website under the ‘East of England’ tab. Poppyland Cottages, for example, have a range of properties dotted around a series of beautiful villages, and within easy reach of lovely Blue Flag beaches – and everything on the website has been checked for family-friendliness. Great pubs for lunches and suppers out, too – and Norfolk is also a very good option for families who love cycling. Perfect for: Families with young children wanting to get away from the crowds Midsummer prices: from around £21 per person, per night Website: www.recommendedfamilyholidays.com

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Travel feature

into a small but beautiful space with oodles of special little touches. Young children adore staying somewhere different, and they love pulling their parents into their adventures – which is what makes Molly Dishwasher such a hit. Plus breakfast included, a BBQ and food on hand, and loads of places to explore in the area including Drusilla’s Zoo, Battle Abbey, Hever Castle and endless beaches. Perfect for: families with small children who want a pint-sized adventure without having to travel too far. Midsummer prices: Around £20 per person per night Website: www.mollydishwasher.com

New-style cabin Cropton

Generational family fun at Bluestone – whatever the weather

Hideaway in Robin Hood’s forest What child wouldn’t be excited to be holidaying in the centre of the wood made famous by the legendary Robin Hood? And what parent wouldn’t be happy to join them, now Forest Holidays are extending their venues to this one? The new lodges, which open this spring, will be set in the middle of 3,300 acres of forest, and include basic cabins to de luxe ‘golden oak plus’ cabins with their own hot tub. Loads to do for all ages – Sherwood Forest has a glorious labyrinth of cycle trails, plus farm parks, arts and craft centres and play areas. Perfect for: active families in search of a change from Center Parcs (and more of a bargain) Midsummer prices: From around £30 per person per night Website: www.forestholidays.co.uk

Molly Dishwasher caravan

Georgian Farmhouse

Pamper yourself in Devon The word ‘barton’ means ‘a small country estate’ in Devon, so head for Libbear Barton and what you’ll be buying is a slice of laid-back country high life, half an hour from the nearest beach. Libbear Barton is a 40acre farm with four properties: the Georgian farmhouse (sleeping up to 14) and three cottages. Rent one if you’re holidaying with your immediate family, or rent two or even all of them if you’re bringing your extended clan or another family or families along (the maximum number of guests, if you take all the properties, is 39). The whole place is kitted out with under-fives in mind, so you won’t need to worry about cramming the car with clobber – even buggies are provided. You won’t need to leave the farm every day, because there’s plenty to do there – an adventure playground, indoor swimming pool, woodland and meadows, a fishing lake, games room and loads and loads of play space. For those days when you do want to venture out, north Devon is teeming with family-friendly things to do, and the beautiful beach at Bude is only 15 miles away. Perfect for: groups of families holidaying together Midsummer prices: from £36 per person per night, based on full occupancy in July/August More details: www.libbearbarton.co.uk

Camping meets boutique hotel Molly Dishwasher isn’t just an unusual name for a holiday experience – it’s an unusual experience, too. You stay in a shepherd’s hut nestled among acres of meadows and woodland in deepest Sussex. A comfy double for you, bunk beds for the children, all squeezed

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Ramsey Lodge

Bluestone National Park Resort in Pembrokeshire, West Wales is helping more and more generational families spend quality time together at the all-weather five star short break destination. Set in the spectacular Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Bluestone provides a tranquil and relaxing environment combined with adrenalin pumping fun and activities suited to all ages and abilities. Set in 500 acres of magnificent countryside surrounding a private Welsh village, Bluestone is a great place to get the family away together for a break or special occasion. Guests can choose from a wide variety of activities for all ages: Steep Ravine and its high ropes and tree climbing adventures, woodland walks, kayaking, bushcraft skills and much more. Then there’s the Adventure Centre with its wide range of indoor activities for the youngsters. From the Blue Lagoon water park to the relaxing Well Spa and thermal rooms, there literally is something for everyone within the family. Perfect for: families who want to share time (but not activities) together Spring breaks prices start from £40 per person per night based on 8 people sharing. Website: www.bluestonewales.com or call 01834 862400 for more information.

Further afield... If you’re looking for something more exotic, recommendedfamilyhotels.com has a choice of hotels in the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East and Africa, as well as Europe – all recommended by real families who’ve stayed in them. Scottdunn.com, meanwhile, can help you craft the family holiday of a lifetime whether it’s somewhere far-flung like Thailand or Nepal that you’re after, or luxury in the Med. Markwarner.co.uk have wonderful familyfriendly resorts in Corsica, Turkey, Portugal , Sardinia and Greece – ideal destinations if you don’t want a long flight.

Travel feature

Wish you were here... Families editors on their best-ever holidays “Going to Amsterdam for four days on Eurostar last summer was a brilliant holiday for our teenagers, who are 12 and 15. We’d left it til the last minute to book, but it was very easy to find a deal and going on the train was perfect – although there are plenty of flights as well. It was an incredibly easy city to negotiate – everyone spoke English, which was a huge help of course, and it was straightforward to get around and to find everything we wanted to find. As a city Amsterdam seems to have something for everyone: we tried cycling, we spent a few hours in the Van Gogh Museum, we had a ride on a canal boat, and we went round the Resistance Museum. Going to the Anne Frank house was a real highlight – both our children had read her diary in Year 7, so they already knew her story and it was very moving for all of us to see where she lived. “ Roma Reeves, editor Families west London “When my children were little we used to stay in mobile homes on campsites, and we had some very successful trips. They’re such easy holidays when you’ve got small children: you don’t have to dress up, you can please yourself, there are no pressures. We had a few holidays at French campsites, and they were fine, but it was the Italian ones that really ticked all the boxes. One of them, Bella Italia in the Italian Lakes (www.camping-bellaitalia.it) was so wonderful that we even went back a second time, and that’s the only time we’ve ever done that. Another one we loved was Marina de Venezia near Venice (http://www.marinadivenezia.it). The Italian campsites both had great, and good-value, restaurants on-site, and they also had really good supermarkets with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. The swimming pools were lovely, and they were fantastic value.” Shelley Cooper, editor Families Herts

Super deals with Super Camps If you're an organised parent already thinking ahead to Easter and summer holiday childcare, booking your children into Super Camps can cost less with their early booking rates. Super Camps is one of the leading activity camps in the UK, offering daylong sports, activities, arts and crafts at over 70 venues in the UK. By booking before 1 March, you can save up to £40 per week or up to £8 per day per child, and even use Childcare Vouchers towards the fees. Corporate discounts are available to organisations whose staff are looking for holiday childcare. For more information, visit www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 832222.

Travel matters In December independent travel agency Travel Matters took part in South London’s first Green and Ethical Fayre. In a big green bus they had games, story telling, competitions and information about traveling responsibly and ethically. “We want to educate the children further about the issues of responsible travel,” said Karen Simmonds, owner of Travel Matters, “so we had worksheets, story telling and games themed on travel for them.” Travel Matters believes firmly in responsible tourism and making better places for people to live in while making better places for people to visit. Karen works tirelessly trying to bring these principles into her business model, setting up the awareness campaign www.maketravelmatter.co.uk which explains how holiday choices and behaviour can have an impact on the people and places we visit. She also visits local primary schools to give responsible travel talks to children. “We recognize that clients question the amount of travel they undertake for business and leisure purposes and our Make Travel Matter campaign is all about encouraging people to think more about the environmental and social effects of their travel arrangements.” www.travelmatters.co.uk

“If you’re looking for a self-catering holiday with facilities to keep boredom at bay, look no further than Sandy Balls (www.sandyballs.co.uk) in the New Forest. Located in 120 acres of private estate, it’s perfect for weekends away as well as for longer holidays. You can camp, hire a caravan or stay in more luxurious wooden lodges, fully equipped with BBQs–some even have their own hot tubs. On site there are indoor and outdoor swimming pools, plus a spa with a range of treatments, if you fancy a little Me-time. You can take part in plenty of daily activities for all ages ranging from drawing, cookery and crafts, to exercise classes, bike riding or kayaking. There are also games rooms, playgrounds, and woodland walks. And with a well-stocked shop, pub, and Italian restaurant on site the chef in your family can have a holiday, too – you can even order a takeaway. There’s also plenty to keep you busy in the area around the resort: venture into the beautiful New Forest for trips to nearby towns like Lyndhurst, Peppa Pig World at Paultons, Beaulieu for the National Motor Museum or, if you’re after a little retail therapy, Westquay in nearby Southampton is a shopper’s paradise. Perfect for families who like independence but also lots going on.” Allison Thomas, editor Families Chiltern "We stayed at the Polurruan Bay Hotel in Cornwall and really recommend it: It was fantastic, free kids club for children 8 and under, high tea for kids, games room, lovely local food. A spa and swimming pool, so mum or dad can sneak off for a massage. We went away as a family but felt like we had some 'me' time too: a massage and reading a broadsheet newspaper cover to cover! Thanks to the baby listening service, we had dinner on our own too. We came home feeling relaxed after a genuine break from the routine at home. I think you would be hard pressed to find a hotel situated in a more stunning setting than this – delivering quality, style, fun, excellent facilities and value. For more details and special offers go to www.polurrianhotel.com" Claire Winter, editor Families Thames Valley East

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Cygnets Swim School children's swimming lessons with a difference...

Lessons for children from birth to 7 years old. Park Walk, SW10 and Queen's Park, NW10 Karen Benson 020 8840 3010, 07742 573099 karenbensonh2o@hotmail.com

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Nursery feature

What’s in a By Joanna Parry

nursery?

So, your little one’s growing up and it’s time to start thinking about nurseries. Day nurseries, nursery schools, pre-schools – nurseries come in all shapes and sizes and navigating your way through them can be daunting.Whether you’re going back to work or just want your child to benefit from all that nursery has to offer, here is our guide to finding the best, and right, nursery for you. Studies have shown that children who attend nurseries can be more confident and often go on to do better at school. A good nursery will prepare your child for those first few nervewracking weeks at school, plus most children thrive on the stimulation at nursery. Another advantage is the year-round care they offer, and you know your child is being looked after by qualified staff who won’t become ill and need time off work – at least not all at the same time!

Day nurseries Open usually 8am-6pm, day nurseries are a good option for working parents as many will take babies from 3 months. The day follows structured activities interspersed with naps, meals and outdoor play. Day nurseries offer continuity of care and your child doesn’t have to stay all day – many day nurseries will do half days or you can collect early.

Nursery schools Nursery schools are often more formal in the way they structure sessions. They usually take children from 2.5-3 years and provide a grounding for starting school, teaching letters, shapes, numbers and sometimes even early-stage reading. Nursery schools give children the opportunity to make friends of the same age as most require children to do either 5 morning or 5 afternoon sessions, so the same children will be there everyday. They are often smaller scale with a personal touch, too, but perhaps are not so convenient for working families.

Nursery classes in schools The first step in ‘real’ school life, these can be excellent for children who are ready for school and structured, educational play. They are convenient if you already have siblings at the school, but again sessions are often only 3 hours long which may not be practical. Nursery classes in

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independent schools are more likely to offer full school-day sessions but nursery classes attached to state schools are free! It’s important to remember that a school nursery place does not automatically guarantee a place in reception.

Pre-schools and playgroups Playgroups usually take children from 2.5yrs, offering short sessions to 'ease' your child out of the home and into a more sociable learning environment where they can play, learn and have fun. Playgroups have a varied mix of toys, games, singing, story-time, arts and crafts and usually an outdoor area. Parents are encouraged to be active members of the playgroup and their small-scale settings are less daunting for shy children. They are also excellent value for money as they tend to be not-for-profit and are sometimes staffed by volunteers, with parents staying to help out.

activities offered. Using sensory materials to provide intellectual, physical and psychological stimuli, Montessori schools aim to develop the child's whole personality. • The aim of Steiner schools is to foster imagination and creativity; they don't introduce formal education before the age of six, concentrating on creative play rather than the 'three Rs'. Both these options can be great, but might not prepare a child who is going on to a particularly academic school (with entrance exams perhaps) but they do offer a more holistic approach to learning.

Workplace nurseries Much sought-after, workplace nurseries provide full or part-time childcare, but think about the location. If your journey to work is an hour long your toddler may not appreciate the trip home at 6pm and a nursery around the corner from home might be a better idea.

Montessori nurseries SureStart Children's and Steiner schools Centres • Montessori teaching is based on a method which fosters and guides children’s in-built curiosity for learning. In a Montessori nursery it is the children themselves, who choose from the range of

A number of Centres offer affordable, flexible childcare for up to 10 hours a day. Worth considering!

Nursery feature

NURSERY CHECKLIST Once you’ve found a nursery, go and have a look. Go back again if you’re still not sure. A good nursery will welcome a visit and might even let your child join in. By watching the other children you’ll get a good idea of whether it's the right environment for your child. How to find the right nursery – a parents’ guide: J Start early! “It sounds ridiculous, but I put my bump down for nursery when I was pregnant,” says Camille, mother of one. “OK, I wasted a few registration fees, but at least I got a place at the nursery I really wanted.” J Near or far? Think about the time it takes to get to nursery. There’s a lot to be said for a nursery around the corner from home, and it helps bring down your carbon footprint. J Does the nursery have a welcoming, happy, cheerful atmosphere? Some nurseries offer cosy, home-like environments whereas others have more room to run around in. A child-friendly outdoor space can be a real draw when choosing a nursery, especially for lively boys. Also, check basic things like security, cleanliness and equipment. J “Looks aren’t everything,” says Kate, mother of 3. “If a nursery is a bit shabby it could still be fantastic in terms of quality of care. And perfect, pristine equipment is not being used!” J Watch the staff. Look at their ages – the younger staff may have energy but the older ones have experience and usually more patience. “My preference is always an owner-run nursery,” says Marianna, mum of 2. “It’s their own business and they’ll really care about it.” Are the carers interacting with the children or are they just chatting to each other? Look at staff turnover and ask if the nursery ever uses agency staff. J Consider your child’s routine. “My little one sleeps 1-3pm,” says Alice, a first-time mum, “so afternoon nursery is no good for me.” Many parents also want a nursery that provides all meals – but do consider what your child is being fed and where it is cooked!

J What does the nursery offer? How are the sessions structured? Look for a mix of fun along with quieter activities. Are there additional classes such as French and ballet? Do they take the older children on outings? How much is your child learning in preparation for school? Do you want them to learn letters and numbers? J “I wish someone had told me about nurseries that feed into schools,” complains Lissy. “I wanted my daughter to go to a school where she needed to pass an assessment, but the nursery I sent her to didn’t prepare her and when she was asked to write her name at the assessment she burst into tears!” 3 to 5 year olds are taught according to a framework set out by the Government’s Early Years Foundation Stage but some nurseries will go far beyond this academically. On the other hand, some parents will run a mile from a nursery that hothouses such young children. J “I wanted a nursery for Annabel where her key worker would chat to me every day and tell me what she had been up to. Some nurseries I looked around seemed too busy to do that,” says Sarah. J Read the latest OFSTED report - a great way for detailed info on everything from quality of care and education to cleanliness and opportunities for play. Although all nurseries follow OFSTED guidelines, there’s room for interpretation!

NURSERY GRANTS EXPLAINED Nursery fees vary greatly, depending on location, demand and what is offered. They start at around £100 a week and go up to 4 times that, but there are ways to get help with the costs: J Nursery Education Grant - all 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to 15 hours of free early-education a week for 38 weeks of the year. This applies until they reach compulsory school age (the term following their fifth birthday), and can be applied flexibly over a minimum of three days. Free early education places are available at a range of early years settings including nursery schools and classes, children's centres, day nurseries, play groups and pre-schools and childminders. Your child will be eligible for the Nursery Education Grant from the term after their third birthday. If you choose a nursery which costs more than the funding or use the nursery for more hours the grant will be offset against your bill. J Your employer may provide subsidised onsite childcare, or offer Childcare Vouchers as a portion of your salary. Download a guide at www.childcarevouchers.co.uk or find out more about Childcare Vouchers at www.hmrc.gov.uk/calcs/ccin.htm Check if your nursery will accept Childcare Vouchers. J You may be able to recoup some of your childcare costs through the tax credit scheme, depending on the number of hours you work and your household income. To find out if you are eligible go to www.payingforchildcare.org.uk or www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/ TaxCredit

J How flexible will the nursery be if you need to swap a day or add an afternoon? You’ll soon discover how useful this can be. J The best way to choose a nursery is gut instinct. Look at whether the children are relaxed, happy, stimulated and engaged. “If it clicks, it’s probably right,” says Jo.

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Find out about the Early Years Foundation Stage at www.direct.gov.uk Download a list of registered childcarers in your area For local nurseries and links to Ofsted reports go to www.findmyschool.co.uk The National Day Nurseries Association provides information for parents. Search for NDNA member nurseries at www.ndna.org.uk/parents The Preschool Alliance www.pre-school.org.uk SureStart has information about childcare options, tax credits and free nursery places, plus links to the Children’s Information Service www.surestart.gov.uk www.childcarelink.gov.uk has contact details for registered childcare providers OFSTED www.ofsted.gov.uk For more articles on choosing a nursery, early learning, independent or chain of nurseries, childminder versus nursery, tree nurseries, Montessori education and more visit www.familiessoutwest.co.uk PS: Remember if you don’t want to read about nurseries in Scotland you simply need to log in: this way you’ll only see results in your area!

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Nursery feature

Round up of news from your local nurseries Compiled by Amanda Butterworth share views and ideas whilst working and importantly, they learn to appreciate the work of others too! Government grant-funded places are available for children over three years - 15 hours, three or five days a week. Contact for a viewing: 020 79244204 or www.blundellsnursery.co.uk

Kensington Gardens has a new bi-lingual nursery. Les Chatons nursery schools have been running since 1997. They already have two schools The Belgravia Nursery School and The French Nursery School and are very pleased to announce the opening of their latest school The Kensington Gardens Nursery in January 2012.

Blundell’s Nursery Dinosaurs’ theme – wow!

Learning with dinosaurs at Blundell’s Nursery Their current theme: Dinosaurs, above all others, engender the most wonderful interaction from the children; sparkling eyes when stories are told, peals of laughter as they try to walk like dinosaurs. Eyes as wide as saucers when you tell them dinosaurs were as big as a bus or even as big as Blundells! These themes whilst being such fun, also teach the children other valuable lessons: how to work together not only independently but as part of a group, taking turns and sharing. They learn to

For more information please call Marie-Laurence Edmonstone 020 7259 2151 or email marielaurence@edmonstone.com

Woodentops Kindergarten Christmas at The White House School, Woodentops Kindergarten and Woodentops Day Nursery is always a time of fun. This year the children filled shoe boxes with small toys which were given to the Rotary Club to be forwarded on to orphanages in Central and Eastern Europe. Father Christmas visited the Kindergarten and Day Nursery while the older children enjoyed a visit to the Unicorn Theatre. Reception Class performed brilliantly the Nativity Scene during their Christmas Carol Service. The children from the Day Nursery entertained their parents with songs which they had practised during their weekly singing lessons. Some children were also eager to display yoga moves they had learnt during the term in their lessons with Yogabugs. www.whitehouseschool.com email: office@whitehouseschool.com

Read on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk: Acceptance is protection: how can parents support gender non-conforming and transgender children? New approach supports families dealing with ‘normal diversity’ of gender identity and expression

Day Nurs er

n ko u Y

The Kensington Gardens Nursery School will be a bilingual nursery school in French/English and also Spanish/English for children from 1 year old to 5 years old and will offer part time and full time placements.

Woodentops Kindergarten

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

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

* * * * * *

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

Please contact us on 020-8870-8441 or dixonannab@aol.com

8838

Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity Road, London SW18 3SA

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

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Nursery feature

Computers abroad

Boost your parenting skills

Local school Hornsby House donated 36 computers to developing countries last year through ComputerAid International. While the children of Hornsby House School were enjoying their summer holidays, the IT team was hard at work replacing computers around the school and taking 36 older computers out of service. These were donated to ComputerAid where they were refurbished and Chilean children using computers supplied by Computer Aid supplied to a range of projects in developing countries around the world, with the aim of reducing poverty through practical ICT solutions. "ICT is a central part of the education provided at Hornsby House,” said Jon Gray, Headmaster. “We are very happy that these computers will have a new lease of life through the excellent work being done by ComputerAid in developing countries." www.hornsby-house.co.uk

Parents want to do their best for their children, who wouldn’t? Yet there are so many pressures in our busy world that doing the right things can get a bit bewildering. So, Triyoga are pleased to be able to offer you Empowered Parenting, delivered by Georgina Hood. A practical modern programme, aimed for parents of children 0 – 6 years old who want to boost their confidence in parenting and help their children become balanced, creative individuals who are enthusiastic, well rounded learners. •Starting Monday 9th January at the Trigyoga Centre, 354 Kings Road, SW3 5UZ, on Monday 13.30pm or Wednesday 7-9.30pm, £250 for a 5 week course. Places need to be booked in advance on 020 7483 3344 or www.triyoga.co.uk

More schoolchildren have ‘special needs’

Is your child School Ready?

A new report shows that the number of children diagnosed with special needs has risen by 10 per cent in the past five years, amid comes with concerns that schools are “playing the system” to disguise poor exam results. According to the Department for Education, around 1.7m schoolchildren in England, which is more than 1 in 5, have been diagnosed with special educational needs and suffer from behavioural problems, learning difficulties or physical disabilities. A report published this winter by the Department concluded that both boys and children from the most deprived backgrounds were more likely to be classified special needs than any other group. The study also underlined the link between special needs and poor examination results, with only one-fifth of children with special needs leaving school with five good GCSEs. But Ofsted is concerned that up to half of children were wrongly labeled ‘special needs’ as a way to mask inadequate teaching, and that “higher expectations of all children” would lead to an actual drop in the number being diagnosed. As a result, the Government has proposed an overhaul of the system, with Ministers trialing the reforms in a number of locations.

Following recent successful pilots, SchoolReady are rolling out their programme of new and exciting weekly classes for pre-schoolers and their carers from January, beginning in Balham. The classes will help your child prepare for starting school and supplement your child's nursery provision. Each class is highly interactive with children encouraged to participate with ideas. Ready Eddy, a loveable brown bear, will help and entertain the children through the classes. The classes involve various bite size games covering the skill sets needed: from motor skills to social and emotional skills, to help meet the challenges that face children joining Reception. To book your trial class for your child who is starting school next September, visit www.schoolready.co.uk

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Nursery feature

Around the world for wishes

Clapham Park Montessori is returning to SW4

Junior School girls in Year 3 at Streatham & Clapham High School raised an incredible £1,266.00 for Around the World for Wishes, a charity that helps terminally ill children fulfill a dream or a wish. Many of the girls were sponsored to travel distances of up to 10 miles, and pupils achieved this in many different ways and with lots of support from parents - climbing Ben Aigle in Scotland, going on a 10 mile cycling ride in Cornwall, swimming a mile in Florida, and holding a coffee morning in Streatham! The charity was presented with the funds in December.

Clapham Park Montessori is moving to the Contact Centre in Hambalt Road, off Abbeville Road in January 2012. Established in 1995, Clapham Park Montessori offers a warm and homely environment for children from 2 1/2 to 6 yrs. The Contact Centre also houses their very popular Montessori Infant Community, and their move will provide continuity of care following Montessori principles throughout this important stage of life. www.montessoriclapham.co.uk Around World for wishes

Arty toddlers Learning to read can be easy and fun! Reading Eggs is a highly interactive online program that makes learning to read a fun and enjoyable experience for all involved. Created as a unique online world where children learn to read, it supports each child’s learning by offering individual lessons that allow children to progress at their own rate. Children love the games, songs, golden eggs and other rewards which, along with feeling proud of their reading, really motivate children to keep exploring and learning. Over 1 million children across the world have already had the Reading Eggs experience and the program is already being used by many teachers who incorporated the program into their daily lesson. Educationally sound The program has been developed by a highly experienced team of educational teachers, writers and developers. The Reading Eggs program focuses on a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words using skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success. It completely supports what children learn at school and will help to improve your child’s progress.

Join the artistic toddlers of Toddler Times Montessori Creative Art Group this January with a new timetable of classes and a fantastic new teacher joining the team. Children can experiment with art and make full use of their creative energies with a wide variety of materials and equipment, in the magical world of Toddler Times. Classes take place in St. Luke's Church, Redcliffe Gardens, SW10 and Youth Hostel, Holland Park, Holland Walk, W8. www.toddlertimes.co.uk

St Mary’s Summerstown Montessori Nursery School

Children love it! With interactive animations, fun games, great songs and lots of rewards, Reading Eggs is a great place to learn to read. Children are highly motivated to return again and again. Reading Eggs now has 120 big lessons which have been developed for 3 to 7 year olds and a placement test at the start of the program will ensure children start at the correct level for them. The next stage of the program, Reading Eggspress, is also now available for 8-13 year olds and includes lessons, games and activities covering comprehension and grammar. You too can be one of the 90% of parents who reported a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills after using the program Using promotional code UKJ23LSW you can trial the site for free for an extended period of 5 weeks to see for yourself what the program entails and why it has been so successful. Simply visit www.readingeggs.co.uk register your email address and once your account has been set up you can enter the code on your parent dashboard.

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

Worried about out of school care for your child?

'The Little House Nursery & Pre-school' has the answer! We have been caring for children since 1998 in Pimlico and have established a strong reputation for the care, welfare and education of children. We are now preparing to open the following out of school clubs in SW1 for children aged 4 - 8 who have left nursery and have started 'big school' • After school club • Holiday club Find out about our unique and exciting range of activities offered and register your interest soon (places will be limited) by contacting us on 07800 531271 or leaving a message on our landline school answering service, 0207 592 0195.

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Nursery feature

Nursery school cuts ‘hardest’... By Joanna Moorhead

Early years education will be a big loser in the coming funding cuts, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies – and nursery schools with higher numbers of children from well-off backgrounds will fare worst of all, the IFS warned. They tell us that funding for nurseries and playgroups will be reduced by a fifth – higher than the reductions in other educational sectors. Not good news for parents with young children, who are likely to see nursery fees rising in the months and years ahead.

...but financial training could help On the upside, though, nurseries could be run in a more sustainable way if the people who ran them were given some financial training, according to Neil Fenton, director of finance and social enterprise at the London Early Years Foundation. He says there is a certain amount of ‘wastage’ in some nurseries, and he believes the financial management of many nurseries could be improved with a bit of help from financial advisers. The good news, for us parents, is that the people who tend to run nurseries are motivated by love of children before a desire to run a profitable company...the bad news is that, in these straightened times, we’re all having to be a lot more money-savvy.

Parent power notches up Parents are being asked to rate schools on issues such as homework and bullying via a new website which allows them to air their views anonymously on their child’s school. The scheme asks parents to give views on 12 different statements including ‘my child is happy at this school’ and ‘this school deals effectively with bullying’. Some teachers, though, are questioning why parents need to post anonymous comments on a website, and fear the scheme will be open to abuse.

NEW locat ion! St Paul’s Community Centre, St Paul’s Church, Rectory Grove, SW4 0DX 020 7498 8324. Ros Bowles ros@montessoriclapham.co.uk Clapham Park Montessori moving in January 2012 to The Contact Centre, 60 Hambalt Road,SW4 9EH 07757 317179 Lucía Gómez-Santana lucia@montessoriclapham.co.uk also at The Contact Centre: Montessori Infant Community Wendy Thompson 07795 364360 Caring and well-qualified staff provide a very happy atmosphere in which each child feels secure and is free to develop and learn at his/her own pace. Clapham and Clapham Park Montessori Registered with the Montessori Society AMI(UK) Accredited by ME(UK), a quality assurance scheme which validates Montessori practice in the UK. Full Montessori curriculum. Extras: Music, Drama, French/Spanish Sessions 9.15-12.15 plus lunchtime to 1.45 and pm to 3.45 as available. 38 weeks per year. Ages 2 1/2 to 6 years. Child/adult ratios <3s =4:1. >3s =8:1. Garden/outdoor space available Montessori Infant Community Sessions 9.30-12.00 34 weeks per year. Ages 1 year (walking) to 2 1/2 years. Child/adult ratios <2=3:1. 2+ =4:1 visit our website www.montessoriclapham.co.uk

Clapham Montessori

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Nursery feature

RISING STAR MONTESSORI SCHOOL St. Clement Church Hall, 286 Fulham Palace Road, London SW6 6HP. Est. 1992 Tel: 020 7381 3511 Head: Mrs H Casson, Mont Dip. Hours: 9.30 to 12.30. Sessions: 9.30-12.30. Tues: 9.30 - 3pm Weeks open a year: 3 terms Ages: Two to 5yrs. Max pupils: 24. Pupil ratio: 6:1 Curriculum: Montessori. Activities: The 3Rs, French, Cooking, Music & Movement, Art plus Gymnastics. Facilities: Light, airy hall with private outdoor patio. How & age to register: Tel for an appointment to visit or application. Fees: on application. Contact to arrange a visit: Mrs H Casson—020 7736 8729/381 3511. Rising Star provides an international atmosphere in which children of many different nationalities and cultures develop self-esteem and confidence. Mrs Casson speaks French, Dutch and Italian which is important for parents and re-assuring for their children. Please ask for our comprehensive brochure.

THE STUDIO DAY NURSERY 93 Moore Park Road, Fulham, London SW6 Tel: 020 7736 9256 Est. 1987 Head: Miss J.M.R. Williams, NNEB, RSH (Norlander). Opening hours: 8.00 to 19.00 Sessions: 8.00-13.00 and 13.00-19.00 (18.30 Fri) Weeks open a year: 51, excl. Bank Holidays. Ages: Two to 5 years Max no. of pupils: 50 Av. class size: 8. Pupil/teacher ratio: 6:1 Curriculum: Montessori, Special Needs. Activities: Numbers, writing, reading, cooking, project work, art, drama, natural studies. Facilities: Glass-roofed “messy play” area, art room, own kitchen. Sports: Games during park visits. How & age to register: Phone or write for enrolment form, any age. Fees: Mornings or afternoons; Special weekly terms. Meals extra. Contact to arrange a visit: Jenny Williams—020 7736 9256. Because of the emphasis on learning and school work within a happy and caring atmosphere, most of our children find no difficulty passing into the primary school of their choice. JULY 2000 OFSTED advised: “Taken overall, the quality and standard of the educational provision are acceptable in promoting the Desirable Outcomes for children’s learning.” Primarily a Montessori nursery, school work is fun too: every session, groups of 10 to 12 go to the work room in the Red room for 45 minutes with two teachers to follow a concentrated programme they much enjoy.

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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

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

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Est. 1976. OFSTED Registered St. Luke’s Community Hall, Ramsden Rd, SW12 Open: Sessions: Ages: Max no.: Curriculum: Activities: Admissions: Early Years Grant:

9.15 am to 3.30 pm AM or PM 36 weeks term time 2 to 5 years 36 pupils. Montessori method of teaching French, Music, Dance, Outings, Garden play. Jan / April / Sept Fee reduction for 3 & 4 year olds

Call for prospectus. Register as early as possible Head: Mrs. T Earp, Mont Dip / City & Guilds Contact to visit: (020) 8675 8070 /M 07958 567210 Website: www.nightingalemontessori.co.uk Effective links with parents contribute well to the children’s learning and they successfully attain places at schools of their choice.

THE WILLOW NURSERY 823-825 Wandsworth Road, SW8 3JL Tel: 020 7498 0319 Est.1981 E-mail: alice@thewillownursery.co.uk Head: Alice Clark BEd + Creative Arts. 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, French, Spanish, gardening, home corner, ICT, messy play, computer club. 3 specialist teachers for singing, dance and gym Facilities: Large, bright, spacious hall and a smaller reception room. Contact: Please contact Alice 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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Nursery feature

Well established, independently run nursery school offering high quality education in a friendly and caring environment. Excellent facilities, including soft-tarmac playground. Small classes with fully qualified Montessori staff ensure excellent levels of pupil contact. Extra activities include music and sports programmes. Outstanding Ofsted inspection Autumn 2011. 206 Heythorp Street Southfields SW18 5BU. 020 8944 8584. Please call the Principal, Clare Collins, for a prospectus and to arrange a visit, or see www.wpms.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...

DIARY DATES No diary dates this issue! This month there is simply no room. To receive our Diary dates, simply ask to receive our FREE What’s On e-newsletter. We list NCT sales, fairs, events, courses, workshops etc. Go to : www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/register4newsletter

What’s On

SouthWest

Newsletter

DRAMA LONDON INTERNATIONAL MIME FESTIVAL

poem, Wait for Me projected Konstantin Simonov into the literary stratosphere of the Soviet Union. But what price becoming Stalin’s favourite writer? Years later, now ageing and unwell, Simonov looks back on a lifetime as part of Stalin’s Soviet elite and confronts his demons. £10/£15. 14yrs+ Tue 17-Sun 29 Jan. SCARECROW 11am, 1.45pm, 2pm, 4.30pm. In a furrowed field stands a lonely scarecrow, but suddenly his field has been taken over by a family of bickering and noisy crows. The story follows their relationship over a year, from their beginnings as enemies, to their conclusion as grudging friends. £9/£11. 5yrs+. Sat 4 – Sun 26 Feb. INTO THE GRIMM FOREST £7/£10. http://unicorntheatre.com/unicorntheatre.com/into -the-grimm-forest Sat 4 Feb. THE THREE SNAKE-LEAVES The Company of Storytellers journey deep into a realm of grown-up myths, and unpick a rich tangle of

9 Feb-17 Mar. A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM by William Shakespeare. Exhilarating theatre company FILTER returns to collaborate with Sean Holmes (Artistic director of the Lyric in Jan 2009), to remix, rework and revitalise this Shakespeare much-loved story. Expect sensational! 11yrs+.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Little Venice, Blomfield Road, London W9 2PF 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com 14 Jan-26 Feb THE FLIGHT OF BABUSCHA BABOON A baboon wants to fly to the moon in a hot air balloon. She meets an elephant whose Puppet Theatre Barge

Into the Grimm Forest

Info and booking: www.mimefest.co.uk Wed 11-Sun 29 Jan. Europe’s leading showcase for ground breaking visual theatre, starting each year off with a dynamic programme of awardwinning new circus, performance art, physical and object theatre. Staged across 6 prestigious venues including: Southbank Centre, Barbican, Linbury Studio theatre Royal Opera House, Soho theatre,

life is threatened by ivory hunters. Can the baboon save the elephant? 3yrs+ Performances 11am & 3pm, or 3pm depending on schedule, please check the website.

Mime Festival

the festival this year features artists from Australia, Belgium, France, Japan, Spain, Switzerland alongside some outstanding British Companies. Not to be missed!!

UNICORN THEATRE

THE LYRIC HAMMERSMITH THEATRE

147 Tooley Street, Southwark, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com 11-13 Jan. DEFYING HITLER 10am, 1.15pm, 1.30pm, 7pm. Adapted from the award-winning memoir of the same name, Defying Hitler is the candid, witty and moving account of a young man growing up in the shadow of Hitler’s Third Reich. £10/£15. 14yrs+ 18-20 Jan. STALIN’S FAVOURITE 10am, 1.30pm, 7pm. In 1941, the huge popularity of his

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stories that are humorous, dark and moving by turn. 14yrs+ 7-13 Feb. GRIMM’S SHEEHA Many Grimms’ tales first arrived in Europe from the East, via the mouths of merchants, travellers and migrants. This exciting journey reveals a vibrant and alternative worldview of the stories we think we know. 8yrs+ 14-19 Feb. GRIM GRIMMS: THREE DROPS OF BLOOD Grimm by name, grim by nature, these tales are packed with humour, sneaky tricks, daring exploits and dramatic adventure. 8yrs+ 21-26 Feb. A YEAR IN THE FOREST Younger listeners will be taken on a journey through the forest’s seasons. Listen out for elves, forest gnomes, a talking bird, a cottage, a palace and a witch casting spells. 5yrs+.

Lyric Square, King Street, London W6 0OL 0871 22 117 20 www.lyric.co.uk 11-28 Jan. LOVESONG by Abi Morgan. The story intertwines a couple in their twenties with the same man and woman a lifetime later. Their past and present selves collide in this haunting and beautiful tale of togetherness. 14yrs+

HALF MOON YOUNG PEOPLE’S THEATRE 43 White Horse Road, London E1 0ND 020 7709 8900 www.halfmoon.org.uk All tickets £6. Sat 14 Jan. A BIRD IN YOUR EAR 11am & 2pm. A fantastic collection of stories born in the endlessly imaginative minds of children. With puppets, songs and opportunities to join in. 3yrs+ Sat 21 Jan. THE LITTLE RED HEN 11am, 1pm & 3pm. Lend a hand to the Little Red Hen in making a most delicious loaf of bread. With puppetry, songs, live music and lots of joining in. Also, the opportunity to meet the puppets after the show. 2-5yrs. Sat 28 Jan. FROM HERE…TO THERE 11am, 1pm & 3pm. It’s all about bridges. Bridges that get built and knocked down, bridges you can climb over and crawl under, bridges that tell stories. An intimate show and a fabulous introduction to theatre for the very young. 18mths-4yrs. Sat 4 Feb. WHAT BECAME OF THE RED SHOES 11am & 2pm. Visiting her granny Flo’s attic Ruby discovers an interesting pair of red shoes. She will then, embarks on a magical journey. Delightful! 3yrs+. Sat 11 Feb. LITTLE HIPPO AND HIS MAGIC PEN 11am, 1pm & 3pm. Daddy Hippo’s present for his birthday is a magical pen filled with the most amazing things in the world! After the show the

What’s on NEW: What’s on Newsletter - See ad page 42 audience are invited to join the puppets with their own magical pen. In English and in French. 2-5yrs. Sat 18 Feb. SPIN 11am & 2pm. Top-class rappers, poets and storytellers each with their own distinct style will send you spiralling into a poetry revolution ! 3-7yrs. Sat 25 Feb. JUST A BIT OF PAPER 11am, 1pm & 3pm. Scribble and Scraps invite you into their world to fold, tear, scrumple, scrunch, scribble and imagine! An extraordinary visual and highly interactive theatre journey. 3-5yrs. The Owl and the Pussy cat

ROBIN FARQUHAR-THOMSON Wonderful Pictures of Children

Stunning Choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets. Tue 28 Feb-Sun 4 Mar. LORD OF THE DANCE The Irish dance spectacular promises to wow British audiences yet again with its breathtaking footwork and dazzling music. £26/£39.50

RICHMOND THEATRE The Green, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1QJ 0844 871 7651 www.ambassadortickets.com/richmond To 15 Jan. CINDERELLA Jenny Éclair is making her pantomime debut and will be joined by the legendary star of stage Gary Wilmot. With stunning sets, glittering costumes, wonderful songs, dazzling dances and hilarious family-friendly comedy. £15/£29. Wed 18 –Thurs 19 Jan. MOSCOW CITY BALLET: SWAN LAKE Wed 7.30pm, Thurs 2.30pm & 7.30pm. £18 to £34. Fri 20- Sun 22 Jan. MOSCOW CITY BALLET: THE NUTCRACKER Fri 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sun 2.30pm. £18 to £34. Tue 24-Thurs 26 Jan. PEPPA PIG’S TREASURE HUNT Tue 4pm, Wed & Thurs 10am, 1pm & 4pm. Tickets: Adults £14.50 &

robinft.co.uk 020 7350 0312 info@robinft.co.uk

Sat 3 Mar. THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT 11am & 2pm. Enjoy this absurd hogwash of nonsense, featuring silly songs, babbling puppets and smaller than life characters. 3-7yrs. Peppa Pig puppets Richmond Theatre

LYRIC THEATRE

Tuesday Tutors • We coach children for state and independent school and entry tests: VR, NVR, English, Maths and interview preparation. • We are also happy to offer Maths and English support for children in school, and Home Education. • NEW- a dedicated Maths tutor up to A Level available for home-visits in central London Tuesday Tutors has placed many children in top state and private schools. It is advisable to contact us early, as high demand may mean that your child will be placed on our waiting list.

Experienced tutors welcome Tel: 020 7735 8268

07906 312541

tuesdaytutors@hotmail.co.uk tuesdaytutors.com

Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 7ES 0844 412 4661 www.nimaxtheatres.com / www.gruffalolive.com To Sun 15 Jan. THE GRUFFALO A musical adaptation of the awardwinning picture book by Julia Donalson and Alex Scheffler. With its fifth consecutive winter run this year, the production has rapidly become an essential part of the West end Christmas season. Follow the quickthinking Mouse into the deep, dark wood in this magical and musical modern classic. Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3yrs+ and their families. £12.50/£15.50.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE The Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1QG 0844 871 7646 www.ambassadortickets.com/wimbledon To Sun 15 Jan. DICK WHITTINGTON Dame Edna Everage will be starring as the Saviour of London in this year’s spectacular family pantomime. £15.25/£37.50. Mon 30 Jan-Wed 1 Feb. THE RUSSIAN STATE BALLET OF SIBERIA £16/£38 LA FILLE MAL GARDEE Mon 30 Jan 7.30pm. One of the oldest ballets still to be performed featuring comedy, drama and beautiful virtuoso dancing. SLEEPING BEAUTY Tue 31 Jan 7.30pm and Wed 1 Feb 2.30pm & 7.30pm The classic story of love and innocence, mystery and magic.

£15.50, children £12.50 & £13.50. Featuring true to life puppets, perfect singalong songs and a new story that will charm and delight all Peppa’s fans! FREE FAMILY ACTIVITIES CINDERELLA FAMILY FUN DAY Sun 15 Jan. 12noon & 4pm. Arts & Crafts, Face Painting, Balloon Modelling and more… PRE-SHOW ARTS AND CRAFTS Cinderella (10 Jan, 11Jan & 12 Jan 6pm) The Nutcracker (Sat 21 Jan 1.30pm) Peppa Pig’s Treasure Hunt (Wed 25 Jan 12noon & 3pm) FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. Sat 14 Jan 11am12.30pm. Technical Theatre Insight Workshop. Join members of our technical team to explore the theatre and find out about their work through demonstrations and practical activities. 12-16yrs. £7 Book via Box Office.

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 29 Jan. ALADDIN Poor Aladdin is tricked by his evil “uncle” to enter a dangerous cave and look for a magic lamp. Soon he is trapped inside. Will poor Aladdin escape, find love and make his fortune? Come and boo, hiss and have fun! 11 Feb-15 Apr. WIZARD OF OZ We’re off to

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on

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.

CAMBRIDGE THEATRE Earlham Street, London WC2H 9HU 0844 412 4652/0844 800 1110 www.matildathemusical.com To 12 Feb 2012. MATILDA THE MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare Company’s world premiere of Roald Dahl’s magical story about a girl with extraordinary powers. £20 to £59.50.

GARRICK THEATRE 2, Charing Cross Road, London WC2 0HH 0844412 4662 www.barmybritainlive.com From Tue 14 Feb. 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, murder and mayhem HORRIBLE HISTORIES-BARMY 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+

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com To 4 Feb. CHARLOTTE’S WEB Offering solace from pantomime and the normal Christmasthemed theatre, this classic tale is set to delight children ages 5-11yrs and their family. £10/£16. To 18 Feb. THE UGLY DUCKLING This brand new adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale promises to be a playful and tender production, brought to life with delightful music, movement and puppetry. 3-5 yrs and special performances for 1-5yrs. Please check the website. £7/£9.

EVENTS THE SUNWALK LONDON 2012 www.walkthewalk.org/Challenges/ TheSunWalkLondon Entries open in January. A unique family focused walking event from grant making breast cancer charity Walk the Walk. It’s a brilliant fun day out for the whole family. £27.00 for an adult place (all entrants over 18 yrs old can bring one child free of charge to the 10k and 5k events (very small children can take part in strollers, carriers or slings)).

NATIONAL THEATRE Island National Theatre

Sun Walk

This year’s event, themed ‘tropical’, will offer a carnival of fun for the family including a petting zoo, ferret racing, dancing and performances from a selection of leading bands and singers For further information: Tel: 020 3463 2100 or walkthewalk@brayleino.co.uk

Workingmums.co.uk

South Bank, London SE1 9PX 020 7452 3456 www.nationaltheatre.org.uk 15-25 Feb ISLAND (Cottesloe Theatre) A new play by Nicky Singer. Cameron is reluctant to spend a week of his school holiday on the deserted island in the middle of the Artic Ocean. No computer or phone. He can either assist with his mother’s scientific research or leave camp and explore. He decides to set out to see if the island is, indeed, uninhabited. For “Island” Family workshops visit www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/families

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

LIVE is returning to the Business Design Centre, Islington, London on Tuesday 27th March 2012. The event is free - and child friendly - and allows you to meet with family friendly employers, seek out flexible jobs, get CV tips and attend informative seminars on everything from returning to work to starting a business or franchise. Register for your free ticket today at www.WorkingmumsLIVE.co.uk/london

BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE BFI, South Bank, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XT 020 928 3232 www.bfi.org.uk/southbank/dickens Jan-Mar. DICKENS ON SCREEN The BFI will explore how the work of one of Britain’s best loved storytellers has been adapted and interpreted for the big and small screens offering the largest retrospective of Dickens on film and television ever staged. DICKENS ON SCREEN is part of Cont. p. 38

What’s on

DICKENS 2012, the worldwide celebrations throughout 2012 marking the 200th anniversary of his birth. Audiences will enjoy a unique insight into Dickens through previews, screenings, special events and panel discussions. Unless otherwise stated tickets are £9.50, concs £6.75, members pay £1.50 less on any ticket. For a full programme please check the website.

collection, followed by an art activity. 5yrs+. 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.

Piggle Battersea Zoo

HMS BELFAST THE BRITISH LIBRARY 96 Euston Road, London NW1 2DB 01937 546 060 www.bl.uk/whatson Mon, Wed, Fri 10am-6pm. Tue 10am-8pm. Sat 10am-5pm. Sun 11am-5pm. To 4 Mar. A HANKERING AFTER GHOSTS: CHARLES DIKENS AND THE SUPERNATURAL This free exhibition will mark the bicentenary of Charles Dickens’ birth and will take place in the Folio Society Gallery, it will explore the many ways in which Dickens uses supernatural phenomena in his works, while placing them in the context of scientific, technological and philosophical debates of his time. Events running alongside the exhibition will take place in the British Library’s Conference Centre. £7.50/£5. For a full programme please visit: www.bl.uk/whatson/exhbitions/cdickens

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. Activities are free with usual entrance fee. STORYTIME WEDNESDAYS 11, 18, 25 Jan and 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Feb. STORY & COLOURING-IN FUN! 11am. FEBRUARY HALF TERM Sat 11-14 Feb. LOVE HEART HUNT As you go around the zoo count how many love hearts you can see, then post your answer in the shop to be entered into the draw to win a “Family Day ticket”. Tue 14 Feb. MAKE A VALENTINE’S CARD Drop-in sessions 11am-1pm & 2pm-3.30pm. Lots of drawing, colouring and sticking fun. Thurs 16 Feb. BIRD BONANZA DAY 11am, 12noon,, 1.30pm & 2.30pm. Battersea zoo have

combined with The People’s Trust for Endangered Species to bring you this event. Come and learn how to help birds and other wildlife in your garden this winter. Make a bird feeder and complete the bird spotting challenge. (45mns) 11am & 1.30pm sessions bookable in advance via PTES website www.ptes.org/events The 2 other sessions are on the first come first served basis.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY St Martin’s Place, London WC2H 0HE 020 7306 0055, www.npg.org.uk/events Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun 10am-6pm. Late opening Thu, Fri 10am-9pm. FAMILY EVENTS: Meet in the Ondaatje Wing Main Hall Sat 21 Jan. STORYTELLING FOR FAMILIES 10.30am & 1.30pm. Exciting storytelling sessions followed by a fun art activity. 3yrs+ Sat 21 Jan. FAMILY ART WORKSHOPS 11.30am & 2.30pm. Explore portraits in the collection, followed by an art activity. 5yrs+. Sat 28 Jan. CHINESE NEW YEAR FILM SCREENING: MULAN (1998) 3pm, 88mns. FEBRUARY – HALF-TERM HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES (every weekday) 13 Feb-17 Feb Mon-Fri. IMAGINED LIVES 11.30am-2.30pm. Art activities inspired by the “Imagined Lives” display. 5yrs+ 13 Feb-17 Feb Mon-Fri. TOUR AND DRAW 11am-1.30pm. Tour and draw sessions exploring the collection. 3yrs+. Sat 18 Feb. STORYTELLING FOR FAMILIES 10.30am & 1.30pm. Exciting storytelling sessions followed by a fun art activity. 3yrs+ Sat 18 Feb. FAMILY ART WORKSHOPS 11.30am & 2.30pm. Explore portraits in the

Morgan’s Lane, Tooley Street, City of London SE1 2JH 020 7940 6300 www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hmsbelfast 10am-5pm. £6.75 to £13.50. Come and explore this large cruiser which saw action in both the second World War and the Korean War and is now a short walk from both London Bridge and Tower Bridge. 21-22 Jan. KYE HISTORY Drop-in 11am12.30pm & 2pm-4pm. Listen tales from across the waves and have a sip of warming naval hot chocolate (kye is the naval term for grated cocoa) Suitable for all ages, entry included in general adm price. 18-26 Feb. CONSERVATION WEEK Drop-in 11am-12.30pm & 2pm-4pm. Roll your sleeves up, join the ships conservation team And see the very important work they do. All materials including safety clothing will be provided. Entry included in general adm price.

CHINESE NEW YEAR IN LONDON 2012 23 Jan. Chinese New Year 29 Jan. Celebrations will take place in Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue. Festivities begin at noon with an official opening ceremony in Trafalgar Square, followed by a variety of performances featuring music, dance, Chinese dragons, lions, acrobatics and firecrackers. Chinatown will be filled with cultural and food stalls and displays.

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

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on

For children aged 2 to 5: MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING 10.30am11am & 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) 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. HALF-TERM ACTIVITIES Free hands-on art workshops at 11am & 2pm every Sunday. Meet in the Education Centre Foyer (Orange St entrance). For children aged 5 to 11: 11am-1pm and 2pm4pm Mon 13 & Tue 14 Feb: BURST OF BRIGHTNESS: SUNSETS AND SHIPS! How can you use real colour to build up the seas and skies of your dreams? For children aged 2 to 5: Tue 14 Feb. STORYSCAPE 10.30am-11am. Interactive story-telling session. Discover quirky characters, curious sounds and fantastic places. Family Tours Tue 14 Feb. LOVE STORIES TOUR 2.30pm3.30pm. On Valentine’s Day, explore the National Gallery through stories of Love! 8yrs+ and their adult! No need to book for workshops, talks or story sessions but places are limited and allocated on arrival. Children must be accompanied by an adult to all events.

THE WALLACE COLLECTION Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN, 020 7563 9500/ 9551 www.wallacecollection.org 10am-5pm. Free. EVENTS FOR FAMILIES Sat 4 Feb. FAMILY PUBLIC TOUR 2.30pm. Free, no need to book. Taking you on this exciting, creative, thrilling and interactive journey

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will be the young curators from St Vincent’s Primary School Sun 5 Feb. THE LITTLE DRAW 1.30pm-

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 bulletproof breastplate really was. - FAMILY TRAILS Themed family trails available from the information desk at the front Entrance.

CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS

4.40pm. Free drop-in for all ages. Come and meet Artist Julia Iwasz, whose work explores the connections between photography and drawing. Mon 13 Feb. RIGHT ROYAL STORIES: ART AND STORY WORKSHOP 10.30am-12.30pm & 2pm-4pm. £7 per child, 6yrs+. Hunt down royalties’ portraits and their favourite objects. Create your very own royal story using drawing and words. Tue 14 Feb. CUPID, DRAW BACK YOUR BOW 10.30am-12.15pm & 2pm-3.45pm. Free drop-in, 5yrs+. Look for pictures and sculptures of Cupid in the Gallery and create and decorate a magical arrow with the power to make two people fall in Love! Fri 17 Feb. VINTAGE TO VOGUE: FASHION AND PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP 11am4pm. £15 per person, 13yrs+. Design your very own clothing, props and accessories out of vintage wallpapers and then learn how to style your outfits with hair and make-up that reflects the style of the 18th century. Finally photograph these one-off masterpieces in a professional studio shoot. SPECIAL EVENT Sat 18 Feb. A DAY IN THE 18TH CENTURY! Enter the world of the Ancien Régime and celebrate 18th-century French arts and entertainment. Learn traditional dances and songs, get your hair and make-up done in an 18th-century style with a 21st-century twist, try your hands at popular games of chance and even meet MarieAntoinette! Families can make puppets inspired by the commmedia dell’arte and go on a digital treasure hunt, while adults can attend talks on 18th century theatre, painting and decorative arts. DAILY SELF GUIDED ACTIVITIES- NO

Clive Steps, King Charles Street, London SW1A 2AQ www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms 9.30am-6pm £9.60/£12.80/£15.95, children under 16 free. Located in the heart of Westminster, visitors to the Churchill War rooms can view this complex of historic rooms left exactly as they were in 1945. 18 & 19 Feb. BRITONS AT WAR 1938 Dropin 11am-12.30pm & 2pm-4pm This engaging session explores the motivations and preparations involved before war even broke out. As well as discussing the topic with experts, visitors will have the chance to examine genuine objects related to the topic. For all ages with parental supervision. Entry included in general adm price. For a full programme including families activities go to www.iwm.org.uk/churchill

ROYAL OBSERVATORY GREENWICH Blackheath Avenue, Greenwich SE10 8XJ 020 8858 4422 www.nmm.ac.uk/places/royalobservatory Events and exhibitions are situated in the Royal Observatory’s Astronomy Centre. EXHIBITION Throughout January: ASTRONOMY PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR 2011 From distant galaxies to our very own Milky Way and neighbouring planets, the entries reflect our enduring fascination with the night sky. Breathtaking images! OBSERVING EVENTS 7, 18, 20, 21 Jan. EVENING WITH THE STARS 5.25pm, 5.30pm, 6.45pm, 6.50pm. A very popular after-dark experience. Look through the gigantic 28-inch telescope at what the night sky has to offer and spend some time on the Prime Meridian with a hot drink and an amazing view. £16, family £54. 7yrs+. Cont. p. 40

What’s on

FAMILY EVENT 28 Jan. SATURDAY SPACE EXPLORERS 2pm, 2.30pm, 3pm, 3.30pm, 4pm & 4.30pm. Something new to make and take away each month to help children learn more about astronomy. PLANETARIUM SHOWS Unforgettable journeys for the whole family: shows include: “Secret Lives of Stars”, “Sky Tonight Live”, “Space Safari”, “Meet The Neighbours”, And “Solar System, Galaxy, Universe” for a full schedule and timing and price please visit the website.

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

www.skiderouge.com Any enquiries ring Libby de Rougemont on

020 7720 4871 / 07939 051220 libbyderouge@hotmail.co.uk Do come and bring friends

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 11 and Sun 12 Feb. REPTILES UNDERCOVER! 10am-4pm. Crocodiles, snakes, turtles, lizards and many more for families and children to meet up close. Find out more about these scaled-up cousins of the reptiles that live at the Wetland Centre. The display will be indoors, so never mind if it’s raining! Throughout HALF-TERM a whole range of reptile related family activities. Follow the Discovery Trail through different types of wetlands or make your own reptile to take home. There will be snake stories and crocodile crafts and of course, everyone’s favourite: pond dipping.

PANCAKE DAY 21 Feb. As well as eating pancakes, there’s a long tradition of pancake races in London. Participants have to toss pancakes in a frying pan while completing the course. The races often raise money for charity! Come along and if you don’t fancy racing, you can always cheer on the runners. More detail check: www.visitlondon.com

EXHIBITIONS & MUSEUMS 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. To 11 Mar. VEOLIA ENVIRONMENT WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR 10am-5.50pm. More than 100 images combine the work of talented photographers and gifted amateurs. Interactive stations provide insight into what the judges, scientists and the photographers think about each photograph, while encouraging visitors to participate and not just vote for their favorite, but also join the debate surrounding the

Spotlight On THE DE MORGAN CENTRE West hill, Wandsworth, London SW18 1RX 020 8871 1144 www.demorgan.org.uk Tue-Fri 1pm-5pm & Sat 10am-5pm. Adult £4, children free. SOPHIE’S REVIEW Refurbished and restored, visitors will once again be able to experience the stunning collection of William De Morgan’s ceramics and Evelyn De Morgan’s paintings – Members of the pre-Raphaelite and the Victorian art and craft movement. Whilst not an obvious kid’s destination this museum will actually enchant both adults and children. Children will find lots of things to do such as the great kids trail which leads them around the gallery, encourages them to find answers to questions and offers the opportunity for some drawing and tile design, lots of things to see such as colourful ceramics and paintings and lots of things to discuss such as legends, spirituality and mythology. A wealth of eye catching and thought provoking objet d’arts will surround them. This centre is a delight, a glittering, glamorous corner of Wandsworth with a grand and luxurious atmosphere inside. THE SOUTHFIELDS SCHOOL OF BALLET We offer imaginative Ballet and Jazz classes for children (boys & girls) from 21/2 years. The emphasis of the school is on fun, musicality and fitness, with the option to take Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) examinations.

020 8683 0222 classes held in Southfields and Wimbledon

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

EXHIBITION To 14 Jan. FLOCK features an enchanting selection of ceramics, glasswork, driftwood sculptures and drawings, each piece inspired by the form and flight of birds. Prices start from £35. SHOP Visitors will find amazing books with children’s crafts activities, as well as child friendly goodies including a De Morgan tile puzzle.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on

hot topics of conservation and green issues. £4.50/£9, family £24. 20 Jan to 2 Sept. SCOTT’S LAST EXPEDITION Explore Robert Falcon Scott’s epic Terra Nova expedition to Antarctica. This exhibition goes beyond the well-documented journey to the South Pole and the death of the Polar Party, revealing powerful tales of endurance and celebrating the many scientific achievements. 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

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 26 Feb. THE STUFF OF NIGHTMARES will explore the darker side of traditional fairy tales. The gallery has been transformed into a creepy forest, an installation based on the Brothers Grimm tale Fundevogel made with the help of local schoolchildren. To 4 Mar. MAGIC WORLDS The exhibition will delve into the captivating world of magic, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the imaginary and fantastical realms of witches, wizards, fairies, elves, dragons, magicians and illusionists. On display will be costumes, tricks, paintings, ceramics, beautifully illustrated books and posters, games optical toys and dramatic puppets. Free. FAMILY ACTIVITIES Sat 28 Jan. CLARA BUTTON AND THE MAGICAL HAT DAY Clara Button loves hats and when her older brother Ollie breaks her favourite, Mum takes them on a special “hat day out” to the V&A. Enjoy a reading of Professor Amy de la Haye’s charming children’s story. 12noon12.30pm, drop-in, all ages. Sat 28 Jan. ILLUSTRATION WORKSHOP WITH EMILY SUTTON Design a hat! 1pm1.45pm and 2.15pm-3pm. Booking lines open Mon 16 Jan. 5yrs+. Sun 29 Jan. LAURA VEIRS SINGS FROM TUMBLE BEES American folk singer, Laura Veirs, performs songs from Tumble Bee, her recently released children’s album featuring early 20th century work songs and very well known ballads. Sweet and irresistible! Drop-in, all ages.

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FEBRUARY HALF-TERM Mon 13-Fri 17 Feb. FAIRYTALE FRIENDS 11am-4pm. Enjoy an active re-telling of Rumpelstiltskin (11am & 12noon), make a goblin hand puppet (2pm-4pm) and embark on a treacherous trail to find fairy tale fiends hiding in the Museum. Drop-in, all ages. Mon 13-Fri 17 Feb JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 11am-3pm. Bring Jack and the Beanstalk to life through drama games, scenery painting, costume design and storytelling, then perform your own version of the classic fairytale to family and friends at 2.30pm. Dress for mess! Bring a packed lunch. Booking lines opens Mon 30 Jan. 5-11yrs. Fri 6, 13, 20, 27 Jan and 3 Feb. GOBLINS AND GREMLINS 10.30am-12noon and 1pm2.30pm. Learn more about mischievous mythical creatures with art, drama and storytelling inspired by “Magic Worlds”. Booking taken up to 14 days in advance of each session. Under 5s. 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. To 23 Mar. SECURE BY DESIGN – THE BOULTON & WATT £50 NOTE To mark the introduction of the new £50 note, this exhibition will explore the design of the new note and its security features. Using a powerful microscope camera, visitors can examine the intricate design details and security features on the new note, including the new motion thread, holograms and fluorescent inks. For children, answering 3 questions correctly about the new note will reveal a code to open a safe containing a prize. The MUSEUM OF LONDON and MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS Please visit the websites for full details of children activities. www.museumoflondon.org.uk and www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands Here some highlights:

MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS West India Quay, E14 4AL 020 7001 9844. Open daily 10am-6pm. CHINESE NEW YEAR Sat 21 Jan 11am-5pm and Sun 22 Jan 11am-5.30pm. Celebrate the year of the Dragon with fun family events. Free. 3yrs+ CHINESE WATERCOLOUR PAINTING Sun 22 Jan 11.30am-3.30pm. Create watercolour masterpieces to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Free. 3yrs+ LONDON FOREVER Sat 28 Jan 12.30pm1.30pm and 2.30pm-3.30pm. In the run-up to the Olympics, help create an animation that reflects London as a melting pot of cultures and traditions. Draw, cut, stick, take photographs and add things to our animated film. Free. 5yrs+. FEBRUARY HALF-TERM 11-19 Feb. Lots of fun and activities for families and children, please check the website.

MUSEUM OF LONDON London Wall, EC2Y 5HN 020 7001 9844. Open daily 10am-6pm MINI MOLES BABIES GROUP Wed 11 Jan 11am-12noon. Learn, play and explore together every Wednesday during term time. Advance bkg: 020 7001 9844. 6mths +. Museum of London workshop

PERFECT PATTERN Sun 15 Jan 12.30pm1.30pm, 2pm-3pm & 3.30pm-4.30pm. Using digital technology in our e-Learning Studio, design a pattern for a cushion or T-shirt, based on some of the colourful clothes on display in the Galleries of Modern London. Free, tickets on application. 5yrs+. FEBRUARY HALF-TERM 11-19 Feb. Amazing choice of fun activities. Please check the website.

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GUITAR TUITION in your own home •Electric/Acoustic •Rock/Pop/Blues/Jazz/Folk Beginners/Improvers

Member of the Registry of Guitar Tutors

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

020 8870 7830 www.marklester.biz

TUITION Come all the family and learn

Reliable, efficient and competitively priced. References available. 07714 202410.

Spanish with Pedro. Group and individual lessons.

PAINTERS & DECORATORS General Building Maintenance

Call Pedro on 07956 699963

"The perfect painters" Family-friendly painters, decorators, plasterers, household jobs… Call Tony for a reasonable quote. 07930 348095

PK Design Mobile: 0753 88 59 557 or 07843 113 403 E: miami.01@hotmail.co.uk www.wix.com/miami01/pkdesign

Learn to massage your child

BUILDING AND HANDYMAN SERVICE

Massage is relaxing and brings loving closeness. Learn simple techniques in your own home or your friend's. Hands-on parent and child workshop by qualified massage therapist and aromatherapist. Call Lorraine on 079101 14153

Painting, decorating, carpentry, plastering. Fit lights, switch, sockets. Change a lock, hang blinds, picture. Assemble furniture, putting up shelves. CALL MARK 07834 069943

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

SW8 & SW19 Studios Clare Price. LGSM, ALAM, SRD.

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.

2 cottages in Cornwall - including sports facilities and indoor & outdoor pools.

Please phone for details 01483 282471 or e-mail nancyshafee@tiscali.co.uk. Cots, highchairs etc can be arranged too!

Designer by Shirley Trimmer

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk