Families London SW issue 228 July-Aug 13

July/August 2013 Iss

ISSN ue 22 8 135 4-95 Est 53 19

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SouthWest BUMPER Summer issue

Cover picture credit: www.ockyolly.com

Tons of activities and things to do this summer

LILY’S KIDS KLUB

Quality Childcare & Pre-School Education in a Caring & Friendly, Stimulating Atmosphere • • • •

Ofsted registered & Qualified staff Caring for Children aged 0-5 years Full & Part-Time places available Opens 50 weeks a year

Self contained BABY UNIT. PRE-SCHOOL We also provide - BREAKFAST CLUB, AFTER-SCHOOL CLUB & HOLIDAY PLAY SCHEME

TEL: 020 8674 8678 OR 07958 346 058 BRIXTON HILL METHODIST CHURCH ELM PARK, SW2 2TX

131 REAR OF BRIXTON HILL ELM PARK, SW2 1AF

Families SW – useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in SW London find us online: FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

n is already here on ear heave th n i e b Everyth ing that is supposed to

July/August 2013 ®

Cover picture credit: www.ockyolly.com

SouthWest

Contents 04-06

Local news & information

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Education news

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Personal development Inspire yourself, change your life!

All content ©Families 2013 www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Tel: 020 8696 9680

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Babies Health

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Health

04-06

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ADHD: Seven clues to a calmer kid

Editorial: editor@familiesmagazine.co.uk News: news@familiesmagazine.co.uk

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Corn Mazes -

Adverts/artwork: adverts@familiesmagazine.co.uk

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50 things to do before you’re 11 and 3/4

Events, diary dates, what’s on info: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk Next issue: September2013 Deadline: early July •“Families® South West” heads a group of magazines.

All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. There are around 40 UK local editions with a print run of more than 700,000 copies in all, in which you can advertise too. Oh, and we have a very useful website… familiesonline.co.uk

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

• Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd, Basingstoke, Hants.

• Paper used to print Families is from fully-managed sustainable sources — meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced. Inks are soya-based, which

What I learned on my holidays

SUMMER ACTIVITIES LISTINGS

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Summer holiday Tips for travellers

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What’s On • Drama • Events • Exhibitions & Museums • Diary dates

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Summer camps, sports, dance and music or workshops and more

• Designed by Shirley Trimmer • 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.

days out

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What’s On calendar July/August 2013

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News

Award for business A Wimbledon mum has won a national business award less than 2 years after starting her business.

Mum of two Cath Harrop won the prestigious Encouraging Women into Franchising award for Best New Franchisor after setting up mum2mum market, a baby and children’s nearly new sale company. Throughout 2012 the business expanded rapidly taking on 16 franchisees across the UK, and Cath now has a network of local mums running mum2mum market sales in 50 locations as far afield as Merseyside, while still holding her own successful sales in Wimbledon and Wandsworth. ‘I knew I had a great idea backed up by a solid business model,’ said Cath, ‘and winning the award gave me the confidence to expand my franchise network. The franchises allow mums to return to the workplace, working flexible hours around their children in a rewarding and ethically sound business.’ www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

of Hope Take your nappy off! Wings Four girls at Francis Holland School in Chelsea

This July sees the start of Potty Training Live, a programme of support to help get you and your little one through the challenge of potty training.

Register at PottyTrainingLive.com for six weeks of free support that will guide you through the key stages of potty training, from changing nappies and learning the ‘bathroom routine’ through to dry days. Also, join parents and toddlers across the country to take part in Take Your Nappy Off Week from 15 July. www.pottytraininglive.com

received an award from the Wings of Hope charity this summer, which provides education for underprivileged youth in India and Malawi. The Year 10 pupils raised over £1300 after holding a film evening and concert soirée. The film evening was aimed at younger school pupils who watched in pyjamas and boosted funds by buying pizza and popcorn, while the soirée evening was well attended by parents and included performances from older pupils. The project forms part of the award scheme run by Wings of Hope to support pupils in fundraising while learning time management, team work and leadership. www.fhs-sw1.org.uk

Free childcare for a year!

Brilliant party bags Hate party bags filled with plastic and sweets? Try this eco-friendly alternative - the Katie Bakes Party Bags offer a stylish box containing a choice of Belgian Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix or Rich Shortbread Biscuit Mix for your party guests to bake at home. Party bags are made to order and there is a wide choice of labels, all of which can be personalised. ‘As a mother of two young children I was always reluctant to spend money on the usual plastic rubbish which fills party bags,’ said Katie Fairhall, founder of Katie Bakes. ‘From the interest we have had in our party bags it seems that I am not alone in feeling this!’ Until mid July Katie Bakes will be donating 10p from the sale of every party bag and baking mix jar to Cancer Research. www.katiebakes.co.uk

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One lucky Lambeth family has celebrated winning free childcare for a year from leading charity London Early Years Foundation. Hundreds of parents across London entered the competition, with one very happy local mum and her daughter winning free childcare at Henry Fawcett Community Nursery. ‘I really couldn’t believe it when I heard I had won,’ said Charlene Cousins. ‘Without free childcare from LEYF, I really don’t think I would have been able to afford to go back to work full-time. What’s more, it's nice to know that when I go back to work my daughter will be well cared for and making lots of friends.’ LEYF is the UK’s most well-known and respected childcare social enterprise, providing day care and parenting support to a diverse mix of families in 24 community, workplace and Children’s Centre nurseries across six London boroughs. www.leyf.org.uk

Best business award Here at Families SW we celebrate local businesses, and now SW London business First Aid for Life has been chosen as a finalist in the South London Business Awards for Best Customer Service. We’ll keep our fingers crossed, as the winner will be announced at an awards ceremony this July. First Aid for Life offers practical first aid training to give you the skills and confidence to know what to do in an emergency. www.firstaidforlife.org.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Inclusion in these pages is always FREE: send to news@familiesmagazine.co.uk

News

Toys for all From traditional wooden toys to soft animals, puzzles, arts and crafts and classic family games, independent toy store Chelsea Toys has everything you could possibly need. We love their range of beautiful European handmade toys as well as their cool, modern ones. Plus party bags, stocking fillers and Haba’s House of Education range, which specialises in nursery, school and special needs products. 53 Godfrey Street SW3 3SX, www.chelseatoys.co.uk

On yer bike!

Family favourite Saddle Skedaddle Cycling Holidays have introduced a range of family cycling holidays to their portfolio. From cycle tours across the UK to guided family holidays in Europe, you’ll find a range of trips to suit different abilities and challenges, from mellow, centre-based tours for those new to cycling to exciting challenges for independent cyclists looking for an off-the-beatentrack adventure. www.skedaddle.co.uk/family

3rd birthday for Third Door South-West London nursery and workhub Third Door may be known for being rejected on TV show Dragon’s Den but this month it celebrates its 3rd birthday with a glowing endorsement from the Deputy Prime Minister. ‘Like many of the best ideas it is a brilliantly simple concept,’ said Nick Clegg, of the combined workspace with nursery. ‘Third Door gives people flexibility and choice so they can combine a fulfilling career with one of the most rewarding jobs there is – being a parent.’ Third Door provides meeting rooms and shared co-working space alongside a flexible nursery, as well as workshops, events and opportunities for professionals to enhance their skills. 020 8877 0098, www.third-door.com

Need cover for birth?

Local childcare agency Like Minders have added Birth Cover to their list of ad-hoc childcare services – perfect for when a mother goes into labour and needs someone to look after their older children. Meet suitable local childcarers in advance and then have them on speed dial if you go into labour during the night! Like Minders will find you emergency cover during the day too so you'll have less to worry about as you focus on getting ready for your new arrival. 0844 879 7189, www.likeminders.co.uk

Sing sing sing Join Pegasus Opera’s Singing Academy for fun singing workshops, using musical games and group activities to explore song writing and performance skills and giving children the chance to improve their general musicianship, ability to work with others and self confidence. It runs every Saturday during term time with the help of professional musicians, working towards a final performance for friends and family. 10am-12pm at The Brix, St Matthews, Brixton Hill SW2 1JF, £3, 8-11yrs. 020 7501 9501, www.pegasus-opera.net

The Wiz Kids are coming!

Playgroup Français

Fun-filled arts programme Creative Wiz Kids comes to Chelsea this summer. Sign up now for their holiday clubs packed with art activities, face painting, cake decorating, dancing, music and much more, 29 July–2 August and 5-9 August.

10am-1pm at St Lukes, Sydney Street SW3 6NH, ages 3-9. 020 7794 6797, www.creativewizkids.com

Don’t miss the new French themed playgroup for toddlers opening in SW London this summer.

Maude et Moi launches in Clapham with native French speaker Isabelle at the helm, a classroom assistant and volunteer at the bi-lingual Wix school in Clapham. 10.00am at the lovely Happy Faces on Webb Road in Clapham SW11 6SF. 07557 055035, www.maudeetmoi.co.uk

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News Pass it on You know. We know. Do they know? For this year’s National Transplant Week join the NHS Organ Donor Register and pass on the message that you’ve done so to family and friends. Everyone can help raise awareness of organ donation and save lives. Whether you're an individual, company or charity, you can join in encouraging more people to sign up to the NHS Organ Donor Register, and to have a conversation about donation with those closest to you.

Download a range of materials to help you promote National Transplant Week 2013 to your friends, family and colleagues at www.transplantweek.co.uk.

Your phone. Your health.

Your call.

Environmental dangers are all around, but you don’t need to be a health nut to avoid them. Radiation emissions from smart phones are much higher than from standard phones, but now a new mobile app, tawkon, will alert you about the potential radiation hazards from your phone and make suggestions on how to keep your exposure low.

Mobile phones provide communication via a network of base stations, with information transmitted from the phone to the base station via powerful, high-frequency electromagnetic fields, and the level of radiation exposure is greatest when close to its source. Your phone is equipped with internal measurements that offer insight into its radiation output - tawkon will tap into this, extracting data from your phone such as network type, band-GSM, UMTS, CDMA, channel, signal strength and phone model, before calculating the phone’s radiation level and user exposure. With the right guidance you and your children can minimise radiation exposure, so find out when radiation levels rise and do something about it! For more on the subject go to www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation

London Transport Museum - family fun August 2013 There's fun to be had this summer as London Transport Museum invites families to join in their 150th anniversary celebrations in and around London.

Visitors will have the chance to admire and ride on locomotives dating back to the Victorian times, including the recently restored Metropolitan Locomotive No 1, Jubilee Carriage No 353, and the 1890s Metropolitan Jubilee 353 coach. Smaller visitors can take part in family fun activities on the day.

The 150th anniversary celebrations are sponsored by Cubic Transport Systems, Siemens and CBS Outdoor, while the Jubilee Carriage No 353 was restored with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and London Transport Museum Friends.

Heritage vehicle outings will take place on 3, 4 and 7 August at London Transport Museum at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, and 31 August at London Transport Museum at Neasden Depot.

The anniversary celebrations will continue throughout August at the Covent Garden Museum where accompanied children get in free.

There will be steamy science demonstrations, story time sessions, make and takes and sing alongs on how the Underground tunnels were built. See page 20 to for summer activities listings, for more information or for full details, call 020 7565 7298 or go to www.ltmuseum.co.uk

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N-e-w-s-f-e-e-d…

Short news, tips and must-read articles Five games to play with your child in the park from snail racing to making daisy chains... let kids be kids. www.familiesonline.co.uk/daisychains

Walk barefeet this summer. It provides our bodies with beneficial electrons; a process known as earthing. www.familiesonline.co.uk/barefeet

Try the WAG diet for a week. Healthy Indian food to cook at home. www.familiesonline.co.uk/food

Organising a kids themed birthday party?

Prefer something different? How about an F1 karting party with www.london-karting.com

New classes for award-winning preschool Monkey Music in Chelsea, Battersea and Southfields. www.monkeymusic.co.uk

To some scientists, they’re deadlier than cigarettes. Are we ignoring the dangers of mobile phones radiation? Daily Telegraph, 2 page article - see: www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation

Fine casting of baby hands and feet and original hand-engraved fingerprint jewellery from Philippa Herbert. www.familiesonline.co.uk/Herbert

Tell the Government you want sustainable fish served in schools (only mandatory currently for food served to prisoners, soldiers and MPs)v www.sustainablefishcity.net

London nutritionist Penny Crowther explains why we need to eat more fat, fat is good for you, the right kind of fat and disadvantages of a low fat diet. www.familiesonline.co.uk/morefat

What can you do when someone tells you his or her marriage is over? Do’s and don’ts by Soila, qualified family mediator. www.familiesonline.co.uk/Soila

Must-watch TED talk: 11 year old boy speaks out for natural farming and against GMO. http://bit.ly/10wG5vP

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Education Award-winning tuition – 25% off when you join in July Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities and also run special courses in 11+ exam preparation.

The centres are open 7 days a week, and are Ofsted registered, meaning that families can use Childcare Vouchers to pay for membership.

Children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme tailored to meet their needs. The company has been named Supplementary Education Provider of the Year at the prestigious Education Investor Awards for the past 2 years running.

July is the most popular time of the year for families to join, as parents across the country look for an engaging way to keep their children’s brains active over the long summer break. Also, families joining in July will receive 25% off their first full month of tuition at participating centres.

Explore Learning has centres across the UK - try us for free to find out how your family can benefit! To book your trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call your local centre. Nearest centres are East Sheen, 020 8090 2849 and Merton 020 8540 7355.

Teachers losing confidence A new survey by Ofqual reveals that 80% of head teachers are losing confidence in GCSEs, believing that as many as a quarter of pupils have received the wrong grades. This is largely due to last summer’s exam grading disaster but also to a lack of information about the standards pupils are expected to reach, and could mean that 150,000 pupils every year end up with the wrong marks. Education Secretary Michael Gove said that this lack of confidence has increased the need for reforming the exams, and has plans to scrap the modular and coursework approach to GCSEs and go back to end-of-course exams. He also proposes introducing more rigorous questions, with the newstyle GCSEs being introduced into the classroom in September 2015. However, many head teachers argue that the lack of confidence is due to the exam boards being pressurised by Ofqual to change the boundaries while keeping the results roughly the same as last year, and not to do with modular exams or that the GCSE is not fit for purpose.

Reading out loud in class ‘does children no good’ Well-loved children’s author Julia Donaldson has said that reading aloud in class is too “wooden” to interest children in books, and instead they should be taught how to read by acting out plays. The Children's Laureate has suggested that reading aloud makes children feel like they are being tested, rather than inspiring them. The author of The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom said that when she visits a classroom she takes small groups of students aside and works on the play with them, before reading it to the rest of the class.

"It can develop children's reading" as well as build confidence, she said. The author launches a new series of short plays written for especially schools this winter, including plays by authors such as Vivian French, Alison Hawes and Steve Barlow.

WIN Easy2Name ‘Off to School’ set We have five Easy2Name Off to School sets to give away, each set is worth £18.90 and contains 30 waterproof stickers, 30 iron on name tapes, 1 set of shoe covers, 1 bag tag and 1 shoe bag.

Please state clearly the name of your child and whether you require the shoe bag in red, lilac or blue.

The full Easy2Name range can be seen at www.easy2name.com To enter please go to www.familiesonline.co.uk/competitions

New website for Sticky Fingers Congratulations to StickyFingers who are celebrating 18 years of happy and caring childcare with the benefit of Montessori education. New activities include Drama and an additional room for older children to prepare for school. Please go along and have a look and take a look at their new website www.stickyfingersdaynursery.com St John The Divine Church Hall, Garratt Lane SW18 7EH 020 8871 9496

Ramsden Hall, 21 Ramsden Road, London SW12 8QX

Visit 345 Nursery where “The Nursery offers an exceptionally welcoming and inclusive environment” (Ofsted November 2011).

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

Great outdoor space!

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

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‘The unique needs of the children are promoted exceptionally well and staff are committed to meeting children’s learning and welfare needs' (Ofsted Outstanding – December 2011) Please come and see us in action and capture the excitement of learning at Oaktree Nursery School Incorporating art, music, yoga, sport, cooking and drama and all aspects of the Early Curriculum.

Contact: Annabel Dixon Phone: 020 8870 8441 email: dixonannab@aol.com www.oaktreenurseryschool.co.uk

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It’s all about love actually

Inspire yourself, change your life!

Amanda is a psychotherapist and founder of Inspired Living, which provides motivational and life-changing advice for people of all ages and gender who want to let go of the shadows of their past and gain new direction in their lives. We asked her to reveal the most common problems she comes across.

Q: My husband and I are not finding time to have sex.

We both work and he gets home really late. I am rushed off my feet when I get back with the children, getting their tea, giving them their bath etc. I do miss it but the thought of it exhausts me, and I definitely want my partner back and the closeness we shared.

I want to keep this realistic because I appreciate that with two working parents and young children you can’t do it all. So start off by making one evening a week “hot date night” with some juicy talk in the day to set the tone, a nice meal in the evening where you talk about positive things, not the daily grind and then early to bed! In no time at all, this hot date should lead to more as you remember how great it is to spend time together.

And now for the practical! If you’re finding the evening routine tiring after a day at work, then perhaps look at planning meals at the weekend so you know what to get in for the week. Then cook in batches and freeze so that at least a couple of days a week you don’t have to prepare anything.

Your husband has a very busy work schedule too.

Perhaps you could both decide on one day of the week where he comes home earlier, no matter what, so that you have time to help each other with the kids, have fun, chat and unwind properly before the evening is almost over. This will help you to reconnect and not have five evenings of the week where you don’t really see each other.

© goodluz - Fotolia.com

A: This is a really familiar story unfortunately. You both apparently still fancy each other, it’s just that life has got in the way and brought with it a whole bunch of habits that mean that you are not connecting in the way you once did. Habits are not often looked at and revised, but when they are, you can really start to bring in some good healthy changes.

Q: To choose or not to choose!

Has it ever occurred to you that you have a choice? Did you know that for everything that we do or that comes our way we can actually choose to influence events?

A: That sounds mad, right? Apart from anything else you will not suddenly have some sort of Godlike omnipotence bestowed upon you… but actually in a way you do. That doesn’t mean to say that all of a sudden you can start waving a magic wand and making everyone and everything turn out the way you want them/it to. No, that would be way too simple and quite frankly, after a certain amount of time, it would also be dead boring.

But, in a more realistic sense you have choice because you can choose how you respond to all that comes your way. Do you hunker down and play victim? Do you bemoan your lot and your bad luck? Do you shrug your shoulders in helplessness?

Or on the contrary do you choose how you look at any given circumstance and choose how you respond to it. It really is that simple… But we haven’t ever had it presented to us that way.

We are more likely to be told that we have to deal with what life hands out to us. It’s a put up, and shut up type of scenario. Actually no, that’s wrong; it’s all a big con. In all things we can take ownership. That doesn’t mean to say that we necessarily like what we have to deal with. It doesn’t mean that we can twist, turn or bribe our way to a different outcome…

What it does mean is that you can pick how you view a situation. You can look at it in a multitude of ways: negatively or positively, from a position of target or warrior, from a place of impoverishment or potential learning. You can also pick how you deal with the event. You don’t have to grin and bear it. You can decide if you like what you see and if you don’t, you can choose to start changing it.

You do this by choosing to take charge of yourself.

Do this today, start small and watch as it changes your life!

Q: My mother is recently widowed and she is feeling lonely.

She phones me at all times of the day and evening and wants to keep the conversation going no matter what. She is beginning to think that I don’t want her at home. I do, but I also have a life and I can’t put it on hold indefinitely, however much I feel for her.

A: Loss is very difficult to deal with especially when you have been with the other person for so many years. It does really feel as though your life has come to an end and many people in that situation don’t know how to cope with the emptiness that they see in front of them. It is a time when you are going to be fragile and needy.

Perhaps you could explain to your mother just how much you are concerned for her welfare and that you know how difficult this time is for her. Gently show her why it is that you can’t drop everything for lengthy phone calls during the day, and why it is not possible to have indefinite stays. Set up a phone plan that would suit both of you so that she knows you are there for her.

There should be bereavement counselling available locally, so why don’t you suggest that she look into that as it will be of great help to her. www.inspiredlivingandpsychotherapy.com If you would like your questions answered for free (in full confidence), then please write to Amanda at Amanda@familiesmagazine.co.uk For more on this article and others on relationships and personal development see www.familiesonline.co.uk/loveactually

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For more motivational and life-changing advice subscribe to Amanda's free monthly newsletter http://tinyurl.com/Inspiredivingnews

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Babies and health Do you need a midwife you know and trust?

In London, a recent survey by the Royal College of Midwives found that 60% of women do not see the same midwife twice. Nationally, less than 80% of women know the midwife who supports them in labour. But does it really matter whether you have a midwife you know and trust your midwife?

The evidence says it does. Women cared for by a midwife they know and trust throughout pregnancy, birth and afterwards are more likely to have a positive birth experience, are more likely to breastfeed successfully and are less likely to have the baby admitted to a neonatal unit.

These statistics explain why women, midwives and charities have come together to launch the Midwife 4 Me campaign demanding political action to enable women to have a midwife they know and trust.

Meanwhile, in South London, a group of midwives has responded by forming Neighbourhood Midwives, an organisation which enables women the option of funding this type of care themselves. One of the founder midwives, Annie Francis, explains.

“Women need safe dependable care, shaped to meet their individual needs by her own dedicated midwife. This is why we are flexible about where and when care is given, provide 24/7 telephone advice and stay alongside the women until the baby is six weeks old, rather than discharging women at the traditional ten days.”

New mum Jacintha from East Sheen, describes the impact of having their own midwife.

‘Having my own midwife helped me feel safe and secure during the scary business that is giving birth. It was great to have someone take care of all the medical information so I could concentrate on giving birth. Without a doubt probably the best money we’ve ever spent. Having the experience of my midwife telling me to reach down and feel the baby’s head was one of the best moments of my life.

You’d never get that moment without the care of your own midwife.”

Unlike independent midwives, Neighbourhood Midwives is fully insured and registered with the Care Quality Commission. Currently, the organisation offers full care or postnatal care only as a self-funded service in South London.

Its next goal is to provide this care to all women on the National Health Service.

“All women deserve a midwife they know and trust and we are working to make it happen,” says Annie.

For a free initial consultation with Neighbourhood Midwives, please get in touch.

020 88874 6624 info@neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk www.neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk

Poor quality sleep and academic success Fact: Not enough or poor quality sleep is a significant factor in lowering the achievement of school pupils. Recently published research by Boston College, USA, found that the school performance of 73% of 9 and 10 year olds was adversely affected by insufficient sleep.

If kids are unable to concentrate they are unable to achieve at their optimal level. Sleep is a fundamental need for all children. In my clinics more parents have brought their children to me for treatment because their child will not sleep than all other conditions put together.

Factors that can improve sleep: - A good bedtime routine, no television, computers, electronic games or mobile phones near to bedtime. The correct bedroom temperature is important.

We all realise the importance of correct size shoes and clothing for our growing children but often overlook the fact that they need the correct support for their head and neck when sleeping.

Beyondbedtime.co.uk are kids’ pillow specialists they sell fine 100% cotton machine-washable pillows with hypoallergenic fill just for children.

Lack of sleep can often be the factor between a high performing child and an average one. Sleeping on the right height kids’ pillow can help kids to sleep better.

10% discount off online •K Bajwa, Consultant Osteopath at SOS clinics UK & “Beyond Bedtime” The Kids’ Pillow Specialists www.beyondbedtime.co.uk

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price with the code FIRST2013 until the end of July 2013

World Breastfeeding Week The 2013 WABA World Breastfeeding Week takes place 1-7 August, with this year’s theme Breastfeeding Support: Close to Mothers. The week concentrates on Breastfeeding Peer Counseling, highlighting the fact that even when mothers are able to get off to a good start, all too often in the weeks or months after delivery there is a sharp decline in breastfeeding rates, particularly in exclusive breastfeeding. Continued support to sustain breastfeeding can be provided in a variety of ways, including Peer Counselors who are trained to support mothers. World Breastfeeding Week aims to draw attention to the importance of Peer Support, as well as training breastfeeding supporters, identifying local community support contacts for breastfeeding mothers and calling on governments globally to implement steps to improve the duration and rates of breastfeeding. Submit your pledge for World Breastfeeding Week 2013 at www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

THE WILLOW NURSERY 823-825 Wandsworth Road, Clapham, SW8 3JL Tel: 020 7498 0319 Est.1981 E-mail: admin@thewillownursery.co.uk Joint Heads: Caroline Henson & Virginia Bisset.

Opening hours: 8.15am to 12.15pm Sessions: Mornings only Weeks open a year: Termtime Ages: Two and half to 5 years Max no. of pupils: 40. Pupil/teacher ratio: Under 3yrs: 4:1, 3-5yrs 8:1 Curriculum: Montessori and traditional methods.

Activities: Art, craft, cooking, Spanish, gardening, home corner, ICT, messy play, computer club.

Four specialist teachers for singing, dance, gym and cooking.

Facilities: Large, bright, spacious hall and a smaller reception room.

Contact: Please contact Amanda for Prospectus and to arrange a visit.

The Willow is renowned for its creativity. Our aim is to create a stimulating, happy and fun environment so that the children love coming to school. We develop confidence and a keen interest to learn both independently and with individual attention.

www.thewillownursery.co.uk

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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Health

Seven clues to a calmer kid Likely suspects in ADHD After her youngest child was born, Sally Bunday learned to live without sleep. For years, Miles slept for just three hours a night, and when he was awake he was irritable, clumsy and so distracted that he could only concentrate for a few minutes.

Doctors claimed Miles’ attention deficit was due to some sort of brain imbalance but Sally thought there might be another reason, particularly as her son had other strange symptoms: he was always thirsty, he suffered from constant headaches, runny noses and stomach aches and his hearing was often poor. So Sally decided to do some investigating and eventually discovered the Feingold Diet, which treats hyperactivity in children as largely a reaction to food additives and other allergies.

Within four days of Miles starting the diet, every one of his symptoms disappeared.

Support group Sally went on to found the Hyperactive Children’s Support Group which has helped thousands of families investigate and find the source of their child’s ADHD (www.hacsg.org.uk). After observing that many children suffered from excessive thirst and dry skin, she was the first to propose that children with ADHD might be deficient in essential fatty acids (EFAs). Although medicine classifies hyperactive attention-deficit in children as a ‘brain disorder’, most cases of hyperactivity or attentiondeficit are nothing less than an environmental or dietary assault, with foods containing artificial colours and flavours mainly responsible.

If you are faced with a hyperactive child and a doctor poised to write out a prescription, first try a bit of detective work, ideally with a trained nutritional practitioner, to find out what is lacking in your child’s diet and what they might be getting too much of.

Seven suspects Here are your seven biggest suspects. Following these clues will almost certainly lead you to a calmer kid.

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Clue 1:

Clue No 3:

Suspect allergies or food sensitivities Various studies, including one by Great Ormond Street Hospital, have discovered that the rise in ADHD cases is mainly down to food sensitivities. The foods children react to most include wheat, dairy products, chocolate and oranges. Also at fault are foods containing salicylates, aspirin-like substances found in many fruits and vegetables, as well as sugar, corn, beef and egg. Among your suspects don’t forget environmental allergens such as cat hair, house dust and pollen.

Investigate a lack of ‘good’ fats An EFA deficiency is also a major factor in ADHD. Some essential fatty acids play a major role in the workings of the brain and eye, while others are crucial for normal brain development. Deficiencies

Clue 2: Junk food and additives are likely suspects Junk food and additives have been suspected for many years of causing hyperactivity, with studies showing that hyperactive children put on an additive-free diet had significant behavioural improvement. Beware tartrazine, carmoisine, ponceau 4R and sodium benzoate. Put your child on a diet free of processed food and see what happens.

in omega-3 fats have been linked to visual and mental problems. Add several portions of fish (or flaxseed or purslane, which both contain omega3s) to your child’s diet and consider adding omega3 complex supplements.

Clue No 4: Eliminate much of the white stuff Studies have found that the combination of sugar and starch in the absence of substantial protein (a combination found, for example, in children's

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Health nd ivity a t c a r e Hyp ondi Could ot be not ‘c , n uspect ADHD h a single s s of wit ample x e tions’ x e ng by mpl but co tion poisoni e? o lif slow-m industrial n moder

sugary breakfast cereals) increased deviant behaviour in normal children. Hyperactive children may benefit from a high-protein, low-carb, sugarfree diet. The real issue may be that children overloading on carbs are invariably taking in a good deal of processed sugar.

Clue No 5: Zero in on your child’s gut bugs Many children with learning difficulties have ‘bad’ bacteria, clostridium, in their gut. Probiotic bacteria, the ‘good-guy’ gut bacteria in live yoghurt and other supplements given to autistic children can improve their behaviour and concentration.

Clue No 6: Probe for environmental poisons One reason for the increased incidence of ADHD may be environmental. Your first suspects are pesticides, especially organophosphates, which are present in non-organically grown food. Also investigate whether your child is being exposed to environmental pollutants such as lead, mercury and PCBs, which can affect developing brains. PCBs

July/August 2013

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The pill approach

Avoid these foods

The detective work needed to isolate the cause of your child's hyperactivity might seem daunting compared with the medical solution of taking Ritalin, but the drug has been linked to restricted growth, anorexia, psychosis, insomnia, paranoia, hallucinations, epilepsy-like seizures, stroke and even death. Up to 10 per cent of children taking the drugs develop Tourette’s syndrome, which includes facial and bodily tics.

It only works during the day to control symptoms, so parents have to wrestle with fullfledged monstrous behaviour in the morning and later in the evening as their children spiral out of control. Using brain-imaging techniques, US researchers have concluded that Ritalin exerts the same effect on the brain as cocaine. And it still doesn’t seem to work. A study which tracked 485 children revealed that those still taking a stimulant drug at the end of two years showed the same levels of inattention and hyperactivity as those who had never taken a drug.

Foods which contain high levels of salicylates are often implicated in cases of ADHD. Try avoiding these to see if it makes a difference. If it doesn’t, then try the eliminating the big five (wheat, dairy, orange, egg and chocolate).

• Almonds • These fruits: apples, apricots, avocado, all berries, cherries, dates and dried fruits, grapes and raisins, currants, oranges, nectarines, plums and prunes, pineapples, tangerines, tomatoes • These vegetables: chicory, courgettes, cucumbers and pickles (and anything else pickled), endive, peppers (bell and chili), radishes and water chestnuts • These spices: chilli powder, cloves and paprika • Breakfast cereals with fruit, nuts, honey or coconut • Cider and cider vinegar • Coffee and tea • Cornmeal and corn/maize cereals and polenta • Food colourings and preservatives • Green olives • Rose hips or acerola (often found in vitamins) • Wine and wine vinegar

are found in hydraulic oils and lubricants, electrical equipment such as switches and circuit breakers, plastic toys, fire retardants, paints and varnishes.

ADHD children may also have higher than normal levels of perfluorinated chemicals which are used in food packaging. Steer clear of ‘diet’ foods like diet coke, which are laden with the artificial sweetener aspartame. Your child can also take in heavy metals from tap water, processed foods and toiletries. Go unprocessed, use eco-toiletries and filter your water—and limit your child’s exposure to plastic toys.

Clue No 7: Isolate dietary deficiencies Hyperactive children are often low in zinc and B vitamins, and magnesium. Deficiencies in nutrients adversely affect your child’s mental capacity and can cause behavioural disorders. Studies have shown that adding B6 and magnesium can help to calm ADHD children. Add a quality multivitamin/mineral supplement to your child’s daily regime along with extra EFAs, zinc (10 mg/day) and magnesium (100 mg/day).

This article was first published in the magazine What Doctors Don't Tell You, available in newsagents.

A longer version of this article is available on

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Amazing mazes Get thoroughly lost this summer in an exciting maze. From yew mazes to water mazes and the traditional to the modern, these 3D puzzles are sure to test your maze-solving abilities.

Hever Castle

Cliveden Maze

You will definitely get lost in this one! Created by William Waldorf Astor in 1906, the Yew Maze sports hedges 8 feet high and is one of a few traditionally designed mazes in the country. Hever also has a Water Maze of stones that tilt and water jets that spring into action to soak the unwary visitor.

Reach the stone grotto in the centre without getting wet! www.hevercastle.co.uk, £8-£15, Hever, nr Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG, 01732 865224

Leeds Castle Lose yourself in this spiraling Yew Maze and return to civilization through an underworld grotto, complete with macabre forms and mythical beasts. There is also a Turf Maze designed for younger children, the circles of turf leading to a wooden castle in the centre. www.leeds-castle.com, £13.50£21, Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL, 01622 765400

Maze World Be a-mazed as you travel the world in one day. Home to the UK’s largest collection of permanent mazes, Maze World has six mazes themed around continents, including Canadian Hedge Maze, English Hedge Maze, Antarctic Labyrinth, Japanese Trellis Maze, African Reed Fence Maze and Australian Wooden pole Maze. www.visitplantasia.co.uk/mazew orld, £3.95-£5.95, Nuneaton Road, Mancetter, Warwickshire CV9 1RF, 01827 713438

Willows Millets Farm Village Maize Maze Check out their A-maize-ing 20,000 metre maze. www.willowsfarmvillage.com, £8.50-£14.50, Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans AL4 0PF, 0870 1299718

Split into three mazes, Mega, Midi and Mini, each of them have a different game to play.

Or venture in by moonlight. www.milletsfarmcentre.com, £6, Kingston Road, Frilford, Nr Abingdon OX13 5HB, 07826132416

Tulleys Summer Maze Park

Manydown Maze

The giant Maize Maze is created with a different design each year. They also have Torchlight Maze Evenings, giving visitors the chance to complete the maze in the dark. www.tulleysmaizemaze.co.uk £7.50-£9.95, Tulleys Farm, Turners Hill, Crawley RH10 4PE, 01342 718472

You’ll have a farm–tastic time at Manydown Maze, over two acres in size. To help you navigate around the maze there is a treasure hunt. www.manydownfamilyfun.co. uk, £6.50-£7.50, Manydown Farm, 550 Worting Road, Basingstoke, RG23 8PU, 01256 220398

Blenheim Palace – Marlborough Maze The world’s second largest symbolic hedge maze, designed to reflect the history and architecture of the Palace. Covering over an acre, it has two wooden bridges which provide vantage points.

Within the maze is a model of a Woodstock street, putting greens, and giant chess and draughts set. www.blenheimpalace.com, £6.30-£21, Woodstock OX20 1PP, 0800 849 6500

Stansted House Maze A family attraction with over 500 yew trees nearly 2m tall. www.stanstedpark.co.uk, £2-£3, Stansted Park, Rowland’s Castle PO9 6DX, 02392 412265

Hampton Court Maze

Odds Farm Park

Britain's oldest surviving hedge maze. Designed by George London and Henry Wise in 1690, it is the most famous maze in the world and arguably the most visited.

There is also an effective sound installation enticing visitors through the labyrinth. www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourt Palace, £8.25-£16.50, East Molesey KT8 9AU, 0844 482 7777

Explore the exciting Maize Maze.

Weather and crop dependent! www.oddsfarm.co.uk, £8.95£11.95, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, Bucks HP10 0LX, 01628 520188

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Have fun getting lost in the Maze, as large as the world famous Hampton Court Maze. There is no 'quick exit' so you have to find your way out as well as in. www.clivedenhouse.co.uk, £4.75-£9.50, Cliveden, Taplow, nr Maidenhead, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069

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50 things to do before you’re 11 and ¾ Have an adventure The National Trust has taken advantage of the warmer weather to update their list of 50 Thing To Do Before You’re 11¾. There’s nothing quite like fresh air, exercise and family time, and you can’t beat the fun you can have in the Great Outdoors.

However, sometimes convincing your kids can be a bit of a struggle, so the Trust have come up with 50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾ to encourage kids to get mucky, discover their wild side and enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer. Check out the website, where you can interact with your very own virtual Outdoors Explorer - keep track of activities, earn rewards, get top tips for each adventure, unlock cool games, earn badges, collect certificates and discover some secret challenges.

Sunshine, vitamin D and tired tots Our understanding of the sunshine vitamin has improved in recent years, as we have become aware that exposure to natural sunlight can affect our levels, and with too little sun we are in danger of becoming deficient. We are all keen to slap the sunscreen on our children and to keep them out of the sun when it is at its highest which is of course important, but children do need some sun. A lack of Vitamin D is not only responsible for poor bone health but a new study has found a strong correlation between excessive daytime sleepiness and Vitamin D. In fact, researchers found that for most participants in the study, sleepiness increased as blood levels of vitamin D decreased. So, if you or your little one suffers from excessive daytime sleepiness, it may be time to take action. According to The Department of Health, Vitamin D deficiency is a concern, particularly for at-risk groups such as pregnant women, infants and young children. The Department advises that daily Vitamin D supplements should be taken by all pregnant and breast-feeding women and children under five, due to the fact that breast milk, on average, contains only 10% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin D. Other recent studies show that more vitamin D during infancy, whether this is gained through supplements or natural sunshine, can help reduce the risk of major health concerns later on in life.

July/August 2013

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“We are on a missi on my 11 and a ¼ yea r old and I and we are up again st a deadline. In six months time she wants to have comple ted the National Tr ust’s 50 things to do challenge before she is aged out!

My daughter has cli mbed a tree, rolled down a big hill, skimmed stones, run in the rain, flown a kite, caught a fish in a net, played conkers, made mudp ies, and picked blackberries growing wild. She has gone swimming in the sea, built a raft, tried rock-climbing, canoei ng, and horseriding, walked barefo ot, climbed a huge hil l, explored a cave, gone star-gazi ng, explored rock-pool s, played pooh sticks, visited a farm, and much more ove r the course of her childhood.

Indeed, I was surpri sed by just how many of the activities on the National Trust ’s 50 Things to do lis t, she could tick off - so, perhaps, all is not lost for the current generation of childr en.

But, as the deadline approaches we have discovered some serious omissions. Sh e says she has never caught a crab (I am convinced she ha s; she is adamant she hasn’t); she has never camped wi ld (sadly, the back ga rden doesn’t count!); cooked on a campfire (isn’t basic cooking challenging enough? ) found frogspawn; (I remember doing that as a child) ; tracked wild anim als, or found a geocache. Add to tha t list – damming a stream; setting up a snail race, ma king a grass trump et and going on a night time nature wa lk, and it looks like we have a busy, but fun, summer ah ead.

You can print off a 50 things to do list on www.nationaltrust.o rg.uk/50things . Sig n up to the challenge online to unlock special certifi cates, games, hidden secret challe nges and rewards for the best explorers.”

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What I learned on my

By Joanna Moorhead

The long summer break is almost upon us; but whether you’re having a staycation or going away, why not fold some learning into your vacation plans? We’ve got 20 great ideas for skills you and your family can master over the weeks ahead – wherever you are.

1. Sleep outdoors: nothing says ‘summer’ like the chance to kip outside. If you can, find a campsite where you can go for a few days; but if you can’t get away, put up a tent in the garden. No tent? Borrow one.

You’ll be amazed at the amount of fun kids can have with a few torches under canvas. Make sure they have lots of snacks – and don’t forget the singsongs!

2. Find a geocache: geocaching is like a treasure hunt where you use a GPS device to find a container which will have some small items (maybe toys) inside. It’s fun, exciting, and there’s lots to learn (about orienteering, geography, exploration, the environment). For more information see www.geocaching.com 3. Go wild swimming: swimming in rivers and lakes may sound an experience not a learning activity – but swimming in a natural

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environment helps kids learn about nature, and it’s a totally different experience from swimming in a pool, even an outdoor one. See www.wildswimming.co.uk for ideas of where to try it out.

4. Climb a tree: there’s so much to learn in tree-climbing: how to deal with the unexpected, how to trust your own judgement, how to take a risk and how to manage failure. You learn that it’s harder to come down than to go up, and you learn how to look after your friend who falls out of the tree. And they’re all life skills that are useful for ever.

5. Fly a kite: gem up on wind direction, find a suitable open space, and make or invest in a kite. Read up online on how to launch a kite, and go for it! You’ll get a tremendous sense of satisfaction as your kite dances across the sky.

6. Have a treasure hunt: there are loads of different ways to run a treasure hunt, so read up on the different methods online. It’s all down to good planning, so don’t stint on that: you’ll spend more time on planning than on the event itself. As a rough rule of thumb, kids can manage twice as many clues as their age.

7. Make a movie: with the arrival of the iPhone and the iPad, it’s never been easier to make a (surprisingly professional) home movie. Choose your location, put together your storyboard and...action! There are various apps that can make filming easier (eg filmic pro, which locks the camera’s settings for the duration of a shot).

8. Build a den: it’s come to symbolise childhood freedom, and there’s little doubt it’s an activity children (and their parents) absolutely love. Dens are best built in woods, but even a small garden or a

bedroom will do as a venue. The secret is to allow your child to let his/her imagination run wild (and not worry too much about the tidying up afterwards).

9 Ride a horse: some kids are pony-mad, but even those who don’t do regular lessons usually love at least the occasional chance to ride. Look up a riding school and see what they can offer in terms of a one-off experience; ideally, you’ll want to go too.

10. Find your way using a map and compass: whether you’re in a city or the country, whether it’s somewhere you know or somewhere new to you, there’s loads to learn from this. It’s tricky to work out the compass points, so a good activity to do en famille; also great to acclimatise children with maps and their usefulness.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

holidays...

July/August 2013

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17. Identify at least ten constellations: invest in a good chart, wait for a dark night, keep your eyes peeled.

You get a huge sense of satisfaction, and awe, when you manage to do it.

18. Make a family tree: learning about your family history is a fascinating way to put flesh on the bones of history lessons. What’s more, grandparents and great-aunts

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nway.co.uk

13. Identify wild flowers: there are so many beautiful wild flowers, and it feels knowledgeable when you know what’s what. Choose an area rich in wild foliage, and take a book or leaflet with you to help you with identification.

20. Learn a good card or magic trick: it takes practice, but it’s enormous fun and if you get good at your trick, you really can surprise people (especially visitors). It’s partperformance, part-agility, partconfidence; all useful skills for every child.

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16. Build a raft: there are courses in raft-building; but there are also instructions (on the internet). It takes time, and teamwork, and effort; but there’s nothing like the feeling of finding it floats!

19. Start a collection: it can be anything – football cards, postcards, photographs of funfairs you’ve visited, pebbles from beaches you’ve been to.

You can collect experiences as well as items: keep a book where you short review every film you watch, every book you read, or a description of every day out you have. Collections aren’t about WHAT they are, they’re about learning to organise your thoughts in a coherent, logical way.

© Claire G

15. Go bird watching: if you’ve never done it, and know little about birds, the best thing to do is go to an RSPB sanctuary. Take your binoculars, read the guides, and use the hides.

and uncles won’t always be around to fill you in – so ask the questions now.

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12. Catch a fish: if you’re new to fishing, use a net. Find water that’s clean and clear, and where you can see there are lots of fish. Then be patient, and ready to pounce.

14. Cook on a campfire: sausages and marshmallows are the obvious contenders – but you can be more ambitious than that! You can cook anything on a campfire.

Try frying eggs, grilling fish, warming burritos, making risotto. Kids will eat things they’d never eat at home when they’ve been whizzed up on a campfire.

© Claire G

11. Track wild animals: again this is something that can be done in the outback, the local park, or your back garden. Your children are looking for signs that animals have been here: pawprints, claw marks, scuff marks and – most fascinating of all for most kids – poo.

67 unique projects to rackle this summer lots of great ideas.

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Summer holiday listings part 2 Compiled by Joanna Parry We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed.

Please double check event with the organiser to avoid disappointment.

we lus all those n be All these, p ca e su is e n our Ju published in NEW Searchable r found on ou e Calendar n li n O .co.uk ssouthwest www.familie

ARTS AND CRAFTS •Fulham Palace SW6 6EA 020 7736 3233 fulhampalace.org/ 30 Jul Drama in the Garden Workshop All the world‘s a stage! During this drama workshop, work with a playwright to develop some drama in the Fulham Palace gardens. 10.30am3.30pm £19 31 Jul Holiday family drop-in: Creepy Crawlies A craft session inspired by the creepy crawlies found in their garden. Drop into the Jessie Mylne Education Centre anytime 2-3.30pm. £2 11 Aug Museum drop-in afternoon Try on Georgian costume, handle artefacts and learn about the history of Fulham Palace.

2pm-3.30pm FREE 13 Aug Sculpture Workshop Led by a local artist, come along to this junk modelling workshop inspired by the Surrey Sculpture Trail and Fulham Palace gardens. 10.30am3.30pm £15 14 Aug Holiday family drop-in: Sculpture in the Gardens Make a junk sculpture inspired by the trees in Fulham Palace’s gardens and the sculpture trail leading around the site. 2pm-3.30pm £2 26 Aug Bank Holiday family drop-in Take part in their free garden trail on Bank Holiday Monday, and learn more about the history of Fulham Palace. 2pm-3.30pm FREE 27 Aug Fulham Palace Fruit and Vegetable Workshop As their Walled Garden flourishes it is the perfect time for a food workshop using the wide range of

produce grown at Fulham Palace 10.30am-3.30pm £19 28 Aug Holiday family drop-in: Food Glorious Food Drop in for food related fun in their gardens. 23.30pm £2

•Mother Nature Science Club At Queen's CofE Primary School, Kew, TW9 3HJ Kensington & Chelsea: Notting Hill Prep School, 95 Lancaster Road, W11 1QQ Plus Richmond and Kingston.

Hands-on activities exploring a spectacular array of scientific themes and topics. Every day is filled with science experiments to make & take home. Two separate weeks available – Science Academy and Science of Sport. Topics include Slime, Skeleton Jigsaws, Dry Ice, Creating Crystals, Balloon Hovercrafts, Diffraction Glasses, Parachutes, Pascal’s Submarines, Crazy Circuits, Balancing Acrobats and much more! www.mnature.co.uk

•Play With Clay At Streatham and Clapham High School SW16 1AW 020 8677 8400 schs.gdst.net 15 July - 2 August . Fun, creative pottery workshops for children aged 6yrs +. 9.30am – 12.00pm or 1.00pm - 3.30pm, £24 per half day including all materials and firing/£120 for full week, £48 per full day/£240 for full week. www.play-withclay.com

•Creative Wiz Kids Holiday Clubs At St Luke's Church SW3 6 NH 29 July - 9 August. Art activities, face painting, cake decorating, dancing, music and more. 10am1pm. www.creativewizkids.com

•Pottery Café •735 Fulham Road, SW6 5UL, 020 7736 2157 •332 Richmond Road, TW1 2DU, 020 8744 3000 •153 Northcote Road, SW11 6QB, 020 7223 3388 Throughout July and August.

Save on summer with childcare voucher More parents now realise their childcare vouchers – which many people used to think were just for nursery fees – are actually a brilliantly flexible moneysaving option all year long. Childcare vouchers are a tax-free salary sacrifice offered by employers to help ease childcare costs for staff who are also parents. And far from being just a bonus for paying nursery fees, they can actually be used for a huge range of childcare options for children all the way up to 15. In these difficult times, it’s a saving which UK mums and dads are grasping gratefully. Britain’s biggest dedicated childcare voucher provider, Computershare Voucher Services (CVS), say they’ve spotted smarter parents storing up vouchers outside of the school term. Research carried out by CVS of the over 100,000 working parents who use its vouchers shows parents now using them much more in the summer. Only a third of parents did not realise

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London Transport Museum Baby Wednesdays Enjoy a complimentary cappuccino while you print your baby’s feet on pottery. www.pottery-cafe.com

MUSIC, DANCE AND DRAMA •Artpeggios Music and Art School Academy 198-200 Earl’s Court Road, SW5 9QF July and August dates tbc.

Summer Holiday Camps Learn to play in a rock band, learn the skills of a DJ, write and record your own music, intensive music lessons, draw, paint and discover the history of art. Age 8+, courses based on 5 half days, 9am-12pm, MondayFriday, £300/£350. 020 7244 4570 or info@artpeggios.com. www.artpeggios.com

•Chickenshed Kensington & Chelsea’s Summer Holiday Project At The Chelsea Academy SW10 0AB 020 7376 3019 chelsea-academy.org/ 29 July - 2 August. A great opportunity for young people aged 6-14 to develop their performance

skills in drama, music, dance and singing using Chickenshed's unique performance style. 10am-4pm £130.00 (5 sessions). www.chickenshed.org.uk 20 July Be a cast member in a flash mob event! A free workshop where you will learn the material needed to take part a flash mob performance entitled All Together Now that will take place in various locations around Kensington and Chelsea. 10am – 3.30pm. www.chickenshed.org.uk

•Butterfly Ballet Cinderella Ballet workshop SW15 & SW13 7th August & 28th August Fun & creative workshop exploring the story of Cinderella, enabling children to discover the magical world of ballet through dance, crafts, basic make up/ costumes and storytelling. The workshop is taken by a former professional ballet dancer with English National Ballet who will bring all her stories from the stage! The workshop ends with a demonstration for parents.

Age 4-7 years. 10am – 1pm. £24 www.butterflyballet.co.uk 07547 483 699

they could use their childcare vouchers for activities outside traditional childcare. These include holiday camps, activity clubs and music lessons. Many popular adventure holidays also accept childcare vouchers including organisations like PGL and Camp Beaumont. It’s always worth asking.

“Childcare vouchers are far more versatile than some parents realise,” explains Julian Foster, managing director of CVS. “This means lots of families may be missing out on vital savings by failing to take advantage of their many uses.”

Childcare vouchers are completely free of tax and National Insurance.

Depending on individual circumstances, childcare vouchers can bring savings of up to £1,866 per family every year. To use childcare vouchers, a parent must work for an employer who offers a scheme.

CVS is the UK’s largest dedicated childcare voucher provider.

For more information visit www.computersharevoucherservices.com

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

We keep on adding to this listing online: For the uptodate listings visit our What’s On calendar online www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Camp. Paint your own Picasso!

10am-3pm £45 per day, minimum two day booking. www.greendogarts.co.uk

•Kensington Imaging Lancaster Gate Studio, near Kensington Gardens July and August dates tbc.

Summer Holiday Young Film Makers Club •Film making discovery workshops for 8 to 15's. A fun hands on experience to learn about the different stages of film making, write a script, act, film, edit, and get your first production on DVD. 10am-1pm and 2.30pm-5.30pm, from £90, sibling discount.

Summer Holiday Young Photography Club •Beginner photography workshops for 7 to 15's. How to use your own camera, learn about settings, overview of composition, lighting, exposure, portraiture. Explore photo editing and create your own art. £90 for a 6-hour course, sibling discount.

020 7993 6527, info@kensingtonimaging.co.uk www.kensingtonimaging.co.uk

•The Barnes Musical Theatre Club

• Weekly Group Coaching Sessions (age 3+)

SW13 31st July Mary Poppins workshop & Wicked workshop Fun musical theatre workshops based on the popular musicals Mary Poppins and Wicked involving singing, dancing and drama. Taught by Stevie Tate Bauer who performed the lead role of the Green witch in London’s West End. No previous experience needed.

Wicked workshop – 10am – 1pm. £24 (age 8-12years) Mary Poppins workshop – 2pm – 4pm. £19 (age 4-7 years) 07547 483 699 www.barnesmusicaltheatreclub.com

• Fun Kids Holiday Camps • Free Junior & Adult Social Play

We are located just off Streatham High Road and convenient for Balham, Streatham, Tooting and surrounding areas.

For more information, please visit www.wigmoretennis.com or contact our Head Coach, Julia Searle on 07816 004 992 or juliasearle31@gmail.com SPECIAL OFFER: Quote SWFamilies1 to receive a free trial

•Monkey Music Central London Golf Centre, Burntwood Lane, SW17 0AT 12, 15, 19 and 22 August. Summer Holiday Workshops One hour of fantastic musical fun for little monkeys 6 months-7 years. 9.4510.45am & 11am-12pm 020 8764 5185, wandsworth.tooting@monkeymusic.co.uk www.monkeymusic.co.uk

•Act Drama Summer Week At Streatham and Clapham High School SW16 1AW 020 8677 8400 schs.gdst.net 5 - 9 August Act Drama brings you another fantastic Summer Drama Week! Be a part of the fantastic play JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH. Wow your family and friends, laugh all week long and make new friends. www.actdrama.co.uk

•Stagecoach Theatre Arts •At All Saints C of E Primary School SW6 6ED 29 July - 2 August An exciting and fun-packed 5 days of singing, dance and drama culminating in a performance of West End Kids, featuring songs from Matilda, The Lion Kings and Mary Poppins. 9am-4pm Senior School (6-18yrs), 9.15am12.30pm Junior School (4-6yrs). Senior School £180 for 5 days (£140 for siblings). Junior School £135 for 5 mornings (£115 siblings). www.stagecoach.co.uk/fulham •At King’s College School SW19 4TT 27 July - 2 August Put on a musical show in a course led by top professionals with final performance in a theatre for friends and family.

9.30am-12.30pm for 4 to 6 year olds / 10am-4pm for 7 to 16 year olds. £135 for 4 to 6 year olds / £195 for 7 to 16 year olds. www.stagecoach.co.uk/kensington

•Allsorts Summer Drama Workshop At More House School SW1X 0AA 15 - 19 July, 22 - 26 July Write a script, use music, props, costumes and your imagination to create, entertain and surprise family and friends in a sensational end-of-course show.

9.30am-12.30pm £150, 20% sibling discount. www.allsortsdrama.com

•Caterpillar Music Battersea, Fulham, Southfields and Tooting Throughout July/August.

Music Classes Fun, stimulating classes using puppets, nursery rhymes, action songs and instruments. 020 8540 1762, 07968764301, info@caterpillarmusic.com www.caterpillarmusic.com

Balham, Barnes, Battersea, Clapham, Earlsfield and Fulham 29 July – 16 August.

Theatrebugs Summer Drama Workshops - The First Ever Whale Story 5 fun filled days of acting, singing, dancing, dressing up and arts and crafts. On day five you hit the stage!

9.30am-12.30pm, £120 10% sibling

At St Barnabus Church SW4 9SW 020 7223 5953 stbarnabasclaphamcommon.wordp ress.com 15 - 19 July, 25 - 26 July. Summer Filmmaking Camps. Direct your own Blockbuster! 10am-3pm £45 per day, minimum two day booking. www.greendogarts.co.uk 22 - 23 July Art and Multimedia ®

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•Theatrebugs

•Green Dog Arts

July/August 2013

Come and Join in the fun at our family friendly Tennis Club with lots on offer for you and your children!

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Summer holiday listings part 2 Mondays: 5, 12, 19, 26 August Demonstration Time: 11.30, 14.00, 15.00 Open to all families but most suitable for those with children aged 6 - 12 years Tackling tunnels Tuesday – Saturday: 30 July–3 August, 13–17 August, 27–31 August Storytime: 11.00 and 14.00 Open to all families but most suitable for those with children aged 3 to 7 years Also Singalong, Make and Take and Get Messy

discount. Dates and times vary depending on venue 0800 975 5290, enquiries@theatrebugs.co.uk www.theatrebugs.co.uk

•Theatre Tribe Summer Workshop At Streatham and Clapham High School SW16 1AW 020 8677 8400 schs.gdst.net 29 July - 2 August Inspired by the work of the ‘King of Pop’, this show will have you rehearsing and performing some of Michael Jackson’s greatest hits. DAYS 1-4: 10am to 3.30pm DAY 5: 12 noon to 7pm (Final Show at 6.30pm) £255, sibling discount applies. www.theatretribe.co.uk

•Upbeat Music Chelsea and Fulham 29 July - 2 August.

Summer Holiday Sessions Record a CD with your child's photo on the front. Sessions also include singing, dance, drums, electric guitars and end of course performance.

10am-4pm each day, ages 4-14. Call 07816 901396, email upbeatmusic@btinternet.com. www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk

•London Transport Museum WC2E 7BB ltmuseum.co.uk A host of fabulous summer activities for all ages including: Steamy Science Sundays: 4, 11, 18, 25 August

•Fotobuzz

HAPKIDO SELF DEFENCE classes available for children, teenagers and adults.

Dan Jun breathing, Kicks, punches, throws, joint-locks, tumbles, jumps and breakfalls.

"Summer course July 29th - August 2nd, 5 days will include self-defence, Nunchucks practice and a martial art movie." Cost £125 Hapkido teaches: •Respect •Discipline •Control & sensitivity •Defence

•Fitness •Confidence •Inner calm & peace •Strength & agility

Instructor: Jon Bailie, 2nd Dan Qualified Hapkido Instructor and fully insured Classes available @ 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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Locations around South Kensington 8 - 10 July Photographic Holiday Camps Understand the functionalities of a camera, basic rules of photography and post-production skills on Picasa. 10am-4pm, 1012 years £60 per day, 1217 years £80 per day or £150 for 3 days.

07956 44 7976, info@fotobuzz.eu. www.fotobuzz.co.uk

SPORT

Little Gym The ever-popular camps including gymnastics, games, crafts, snack time and a whole lot of fun. Times vary Prices vary

•Inspire Life and Leisure Wandsworth Common SW18 30 July - 1 August, 13–15, 27-29 August. Summer Holiday Football & Athletics Fun! Join the Inspire Team for fun and action to keep your little ones busy.

Presentation on the last day, prizes, certificates and lots more! 3.5-12 years, £20 per day or £50 for the three days. Call 07939 054551 or visit www.inspirelife andleisure.com

•Amanda’s Action Club Battersea, Chiswick, Ealing, Fulham, Putney and Wandsworth Throughout July and August. Fun With Music Classes over the summer holidays at venues across SW London. For details call 01895 623999, info@amandasactionclub.co.uk www.amandasactionclub.co.uk

•The Little Gym

•All Star Coaching Tennis

SW18 1DB 020 8874 6567 thelittlegym.co.uk 22 July - 31 August The Little Gym Summer Holiday Fun.

SW18 3RT 020 8871 4706 allstarcoaching.co.uk 8 July - 30 August Popular All Star Tennis camps for all abilities.

Times vary £158-£197

•Back Flip Performers At Old Rutlishians Sports Ground SW19 3JS 22 July - 23 August. Learn backflips, somersaults, cartwheels, handstands and much more. 10-3pm £30 per day. www.backflipperformers.com

•Battersea Summer Scheme – Sport in the Park Millennium Arena, Battersea Park 20 July - 2 August Sport in the Park Sporting opportunities and fun activities for 8 to 16 year olds, 11.30am-4.30pm, £1 per day! Plus testing challenges such as high rope and Army assault courses, musical activities and a diverse range of workshops. Contact Vanessa Wride on 020 7978 5865, bss@bcpp.co.uk. www.batterseasummerscheme.org

•Fulham FC Foundation Venues in Fulham Dates TBC in July and August.

Summer Holiday Courses Holiday courses for all abilities in a fun and challenging environment. 35yrs - 9-11am, 6-14 yrs - 9am-3pm, from £12 per day. 0870 442 5432, holidaycourses@fulhamfc.com www.fulhamfc.com/foundation

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

We keep on adding to this listing online: For the uptodate listings visit our What’s On calendar online www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk •Chelsea FC Soccer School

•Playball Tennis Courts of Battersea Park Oak Lodge School, 101 Nightingale Lane, SW12 8NA Latchmere Leisure Centre, Burns Road, Battersea SW11 5AD July and August dates TBC. Summer Holiday Camp Water balloons, treasure hunts, Playball skills, tennis, hockey, cricket, golf, football, rugby, basketball, football, volleyball and more! Ages 39. 07738 375317 / 020 8123 2217, gavin@playball-London.com www.playball-London.com

Battersea Park, Prince of Wales Drive SW11 4NU Chestnut Grove School, Chestnut Grove, Balham SW12 9JZ 29 July - 30 August.

London Soccer School For boys and girls aged 3-13. Times vary according to course, from £34.

Call 020 7957 8220, londondevelopment@chelseafc.com or soccerschools@chelseafc.com. www.chelseafc.com/soccerschools

Cupcake Cupcake is a unique family club designed to offer exclusive baby and toddler classes provided by qualified professionals, for children 0 to 5 yrs old. Cupcake welcomes parents and parents-to-be into an oasis of fitness, Children’s Classes, seminars and courses, providing “fun and wellbeing for the whole family”.

They are passionate about helping each child learn and flourish while you enjoy time to relax and use their amazing facilities. The fun continues in Summer holiday Clubs and workshops for children aged 4+.

020 7186 6000 mumcierge_parsonsgreen@cupcakemum.com www.cupcakemum.com Wildwise Summer Camps

•Summer Tennis Camp

Summer course July 29th - August 2nd.

The five days will include selfdefence, Nunchucks practice and a martial art movie; Various venues.

Cost £125.

07932 667 336 www.semokwan-hapkido.co.uk

At Furzedown Recreation Centre SW17 9BP 020 8871 7171 wandsworth.gov.uk 29 July - 9 August Fun-filled courses for all abilities, based on the LTA mini tennis scheme, times vary depending on age £32.50-£48.75 12 - 23 August Summer Soccer School. Aimed at all abilities improving ball work, skills and techniques 10am-3pm £50.00 per week (£12 per day) (10% discount for booking 2 or more children)

•Henry Lamb Tennis Camp At St Paul's School SW13 9JT 8 July - 30 August.

Tennis Camps for children 8-15.

10am to 4pm.

At Kensington Prep School SW6 5PA 020 7731 9300 kensingtonprep.gdst.net 15 July - 23 August Tennis camps for children 5-15 years 9am-1pm, age 5-8 £152.

At Putney High School SW15 6BH 020 8788 4886 putneyhigh.gdst.net 15 July – 30 August Tennis camps for children 5-15 years 10am-4pm, age 8-15 £228. www.henrylamb.co.uk

•Herne Hill Harriers Holiday Weeks At Tooting Bec Athletics Track SW17 3NP 447801450218 29 July - 30 August Athletic holiday weeks. £10 per day or £45 per week. www.hernehillharriers.org

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•The Spencer Club

•SW Sports Camp May

Fieldview, Earlsfield, SW18 3HF July and August dates TBC. Summer Tennis Drop-in tennis camp for ages 5-16, 9.30am-12.30pm, £10 members, £15 non-members, £12 siblings.

Tournaments on Tuesdays and Thursdays 1.30-4.30pm July and August dates TBC. Summer Hockey Learn new skills and tactics in an enjoyable but challenging way.

Ages 8-11 9.30am-12.30pm. From £40 22 July - 16 August.

Summer Cricket 10am-4pm for Years 2-8. 5 day courses £130 for members and £160 for non-members. There is no day rate. Contact Sophie for booking forms and more details. membership@spencerclub.org or call 020 8874 2717. www.spencerclub.org

At Clapham Common Tennis Centre SW4 9AN tennis-teaching.com 22 July - 30 August Sports camp including football, tennis and minivolleyball 10am-3pm £35 per day, £150 per week with 10% sibling discount

•SwimWay East Sheen, Knightsbridge, Putney and Streatham Hill 22 July - 9 August. Summer Swimming Courses One-week intensive courses to improve your child’s swimming technique. Private or semi-private lessons. 3-9yrs, 020 8871 3972, info@swimway.co.uk. www.swimway.co.uk

•Tennis4you At Wimbledon Park Tennis Courts SW19 7HR tennis4you.co.uk,

londontennis.co.uk, tennisbreaks.co.uk 22 July - 30 August Summer Holiday Camp. Ideal holiday fun for kids Age 3-6 10am until 12pm, age 6-15 10am until 2pm. Age 3-6 £99/£25 per day, age 6-15 £149/£35 per day

•Grafton Tennis and Squash Club SW12 0LF 020 7582 5320 graftontennisandsquash.info/ 22 July - 16 August Holiday Tennis Courses For children aged 6 to 16; 10am to 12pm and 1-3pm £8 half day, £16 full day

•Urban Ascent Rock Climbing Unit 5 Parsons Green Depot, 33-35 Parsons Green Lane, Fulham SW6 4HH 22 July - 30 August Kids Holiday

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•Hapkido

Summer holiday listings part 2 Club Ensure your kids get the most out of this summer break and bring them rock climbing in Parsons Green. Age 5+, 1.30-2.30pm, 3-4pm and 4.30-5.30pm. £12 per session. info@urbanascent.co.uk, 020 7751 0913. www.urbanascent.co.uk

•Wigmore Tennis Club 43 Becmead Avenue, Streatham SW16 1UJ July and August dates TBC. Fun Kids Holiday Camps Join the fun at this family friendly tennis club. 07816 004 992, juliasearle31@gmail.com www.wigmoretennis.com

Wimbledon Village Stables SW19 5DX 020 8946 8579 wvstables.com 17 - 19 July and 24 - 26 July.

Children’s Holiday Courses. The Holiday Courses are aimed at children aged 5 - 10 with a riding level of 1, 2 or 3 including complete beginners. 1.45-4.15pm £170 for the 3 days

Barnes Summer Play School SW13 9HJ 0208 785 3105, 07973408396 barnessummerplayschool.org.uk/ 22 July – 23 August Barnes

Summer Play School Holiday Camps Daily creative projects, mini aerobics and yoga, French, Spanish, painting, music, dancing and more. 9.30am3.30pm £29 per half day, £45 per day, £168 per week.

22 July – 23 August Barnes Summer Play School Big Top Adventures. Children go out on excursions visiting museums, Emirates stadium, Brighton for the day, cookery workshop, Harry Potter Film studio, Tiger Territory @ London Zoo, swimming, Charles Dickens Museum, drama, football training, photographic workshop, plus much more.... 9.30am-3.30pm, £59 per day, £189 per week

Camp Beaumont Day Camps At King’s College School SW19 4TT 22 July – 23 August. Up to 40 different activities ranging from archery, arts and crafts, soccer, tennis, swimming, motorsports, basketball, climbing wall, and many more. 9.30am-5.30pm From £47 per day. campbeaumont.co.uk

Wild Learning

summer camps

Wimbledon Common 29 July – 16 August. Outdoor Woodland Holiday Camp Play, learn, explore, get muddy and have an adventure in a safe, nurturing but wild environment of this specially-made woodland camp.

Age 5-12, 10.15am-4pm, extended day available, £42. 01483 424 400, jon@wild-learning.net www.wild-learning.net

Activ Camps MultiActivity Camp

Youth Music Theatre UK

At Emanuel School SW11 1HS 15 July – 23 August Non-stop, fun-filled and action-packed! 8.30pm5.30pm £40 per day £175 per week £25 for 4 yr olds (4 hours). www.activcamps.com

Roehampton University 5-12 August. Summer Skills Course An action-packed 6-day musical theatre skills courses. Act, sign and dance, meet like-minded friends and perform, while creating a brand new musical exploring the theme 'Sensational'. Ages 11-21, fully residential course, £495.

0844 415 4858, richardcross@ymtuk.org, mail@ymtuk.org www.youthmusictheatreuk.org

WildWise Summer Camps A Wildwood site on Dartmoor – details on booking 4-10 August. WildWise’s Annual Family Camp Quality time for families to enjoy diverse outdoor activities, crafts and skills, taught in a convivial, creative camp atmosphere in wild nature. £250 1st adult, £195 2nd adult, £110 kids

11-14 August. The Wild Ones Experienced, professional staff will blend bushcraft and nature awareness with storytelling, giving the youngsters the adventure we wished we'd had when we were young! 8-12yrs, £225 16-18 August. Dangerous Weekend for Boys Get dirty, mess about with fires, use sharp tools, sleep outdoors, eat weird things, tell ridiculous stories and enjoy the craic. £225 man & boy, £25 each extra boy, all ages.

23-25 August.

Sacred Hunting Camp Immersing into the preparation and practices of the hunter and learning the ancient knowledge and primitive skills to become a sacred hunter in a beautiful, wild location on Dartmoor.

10-14 yrs, £225 01803 868269, info@wildwise.co.uk. www.wildwise.co.uk

•Met Film School Summer Camp 2013 Rugby School 8-21 July and 12-25 August.

Residential Summer Camp Understand key elements of cinematography including framing and lighting, and learn to work with actors. Age 14-17, £2500. www.metfilmschool.co.uk/courses /short-course/met-summer-camp

•Koosa Kids Camp East Sheen Sports Centre, Richmond Park School, Park Avenue, East Sheen SW14 8AT 22 July – 30 August.

Summer Camps Over 350 activities including Go Karts, golf and relay races in their 'Endeavour Zone', to clay moulding, painting and drama in the 'Discovery Zone'. 8.15am-6pm, age 4-13, from 18 per day. 0845 094 2322, www.koosakids.co.uk

We are constantly adding new summer camps and courses to our online What’s On calendar, check it out here: www.familiessouthwest.co.uk

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Holidays

The Big Summer Holiday tips for travellers

By Robina Cowan, editor Families South East

ippee! It’s the break we’ve all been dreaming of and looking forward to through the dank winter and spring months – here comes this year’s summer holiday. Hands up who remembers when it was just you and your beloved, grabbing a cheap deal, filling a backpack at the last minute and heading for the sun? Those were the good old days... Now you’re a family, there’s a third ‘p’ to add to ‘passport and packing’ – ‘planning’.

Y

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Before you go ɗ

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Label your child’s clothes, towels and backpacks, especially if you will be using kids’ clubs – they WILL go missing. Labels 4 Kids (www.labels4kids.com/fam) and Easy 2 Name (www.easy2name.com) both stock packs of instant labels so the job’s a breeze and it’s a much cheaper solution than replacing lost items. They also have ID wristbands so you can label the children with your contact details.

Use Google Street View with the children to look round your planned location and help get familiarised with the landscape, ‘foreign’ signs and local attractions. You can also use it to create a list of places to visit.

Photocopy everyone's passport and keep the copies in a different place. If the originals go missing, proof that you had passports will make it much easier to tussle with overseas authorities when it's time to come home.

Have up to date pictures of your children on your phone - if they go missing you can show authorities what they look like.

Freeze food to await your return - even fresh milk can be frozen - so you don't come home to an empty kitchen. Some very organised mothers even do an online shop towards the end of their holiday, for delivery on their first day home. Now, that's organisation!

Lost luggage is a nightmare. Rather than filling one suitcase per person, pack a couple of daytime and evening outfits for everyone in each case so you can all get started while the hotel/airline tracks down the missing bag.

Involve your children in the packing even if just a small part is their responsibility. It occupies them while you are busy and gets them into the holiday mood. Then check their choices: you may find fancy dress costumes and nothing sensible (OK, I admit this is from experience!).

Add a small ‘emergency bag’ to your hand luggage, with plasters, tissues, sachets of paracetamol, cotton wool, needle and thread, safety pins, wetwipes and a few sweets (for bribing and wiping away tears).

Oh the satisfying feeling to have what you need just at the right time!

Pack spare clothes in your hand luggage in case of ‘accidents’ Leave a spare set of keys with a friendly neighbour in case of home emergencies, losing yours or locking yourself out (I’ve done that just when we were about to leave!).

Cancel the newspapers and ask your friendly neighbour to return the wheelie bins to your property on collection day, so you’re not advertising an empty home.

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On the way ɗ

ɗ ɗ ɗ ɗ ɗ

Long car journeys are not all about being plugged into gadgets.

Try story tapes - as a family, we are all totally addicted to the ‘How to Train your Dragon’ series. The ‘Michelin I-Spy’ activity books are great fun, as are the free downloads from www.rac.co.uk/advice/car-knowledge/top-ten/car-games/. I made up some sheets myself for a journey through France and they kept my boys amused for hours.

For flights, Usborne’s ’50 Things do on a Plane’ will keep them occupied, rrp £5.99, while the Top Trumps range is great for older children, especially if you're willing to join in.

Flying is the one time I am relaxed about screen time - if you have electrical gadgets, use them. Make sure you have some child friendly headphones to hand so as not to 'share' your child's love of Peppa Pig with the entire plane.

Sucky sweets (as they are known in our house) are great for little ones who struggle with their ears on take off. Give babies a bottle (or breastfeed) to stop their ears popping.

Pack an extra layer for the flight even if you're flying from a warm UK to a tropical destination. Planes can be chilly and children won't relax if they're not cosy.

If your child is crying on the flight, don't panic. Most of passengers on board will be either parents or grandparents and will have sympathy for you. Your priority is settling your child in the best way you can. If your child has a favourite teddy or comfort blanket, make sure it's in your hand luggage. It may help calm them and that in turn will calm you.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

a al

l o

While you’re there ɗ ɗ

Resist the temptation to Facebook your day's antics - you're advertising that you are away and your home's empty. Not a good idea.

When packing to come home, check the back of every drawer, cupboard and even under the beds for favourite toys that might be lurking unseen. Have a quick rifle through the hotel/resort Lost Property box for mislaid hats/t-shirts etc (patting yourself on the back for labelling them beforehand).

When you return ɗ

Take your holiday laundry for a service wash - it's a small price to pay for not having to sort, wash and dry all those gritty beach towels and sunscreen covered t-shirts.

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And finally!

Work on a 70:30 ratio.

Holidays are not 100% effortless when you have children, just as life at home is not effortless. If you can enjoy 70% of the time you are away together, that's a result. 30% will be about tantrums, tiredness and bad moods. But if you come home knowing that for most of the time, you relaxed, laughed and enjoyed the time spent together as a family, it's been a success!

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All our listings can be seen on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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What’s On Compiled by Joanna Parry

The London Palladium

National Youth Theatre

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline or we got it wrong...

W1F 7TF reallyuseful.seetickets.com/tour/a-chorus-line A Chorus Line The new production at The Palladium Theatre 7.45pm / Wed & Sat Matinee 3.00pm / £20.50 to £87.50

St James’s Church W1J 9LL nationaltheatre.org.uk 31 August – 15 September Pope Joan A truly unique theatrical experience, Pope Joan is written by promising new playwright Louise Brealey.

Lyric Theatre W1D 7ES nimaxtheatres.com/lyric-theatre We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury.

Times vary / from £14 Every Mon Tue Wed Thurs Fri Sat from 03 July

Ambassadors Theatre WC2H 9ND theambassadorstheatre.co.uk 23 September – 29 November Romeo & Juliet and Prince of Denmark/Tory Boyz National Youth Theatre in Rep at the Ambassador's Theatre.

National Theatre

Regents Park Open Air Theatre

SE1 9PX nationaltheatre.org.uk 3–8 July Connections Festival 2013 10 brand new plays performed by young people.

NW1 4NU openairtheatre.com To 20 July Pride and Prejudice As the Bennet sisters haplessly search for love in Jane Austen’s ultimate romantic comedy, it is Mr Darcy who unwittingly finds his match.

2.15pm, 7.45pm / From £23 To 20 July The Winter’s Tale Re-imagined Using Shakespeare’s original text, this heartwarming story is re-imagined for everyone aged six and over. £15 25 July-7 Sept The Sound of Music The classic musical in the open air theatre.

9 Aug-8 Sept Dinosaur Zoo Discover all about dinosaurs in this imaginative live show - plus get up close and personal with them on the picnic lawn before you go. For ages 3+

Drama Ambassadors Theatre WC2H 9ND theambassadorstheatre.co.uk Stomp Celebrating its 10th sensational year in London, Stomp is now fresher, faster and funnier than ever before.

3pm and 8pm / £26-£52.50 Every Mon Tue Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun from 01 July

The Chickenshed Theatre N14 4PE chickenshed.org.uk To 6 July Tales from the Shed Tales from the Shed is a highly entertaining, interactive theatre show that is perfect for young children.

Fri 11.30am / Sat 10.00am & 11.30am / £6.00 1-10 August Fairies' Tale - Tales from the Shed's Summer Show. When humans grow up, they stop believing in fairies. For your average fairy, on the other hand, humans are a mysterious race that exist only in legends and fables.

10.00am & 11.30am, £6, free to babies under 1yr

Garrick Theatre WC2H 0HH nimaxtheatres.com 7 Aug-1 Sept Horrible histories PART 1 Have you ever wondered why the Romans never won MasterChef? Would you lose your heart or head to horrible Henry? Will Parliament escape gunpowder Guy? From £16

Iris Theatre St Paul’s Church WC2E 9ED iristheatre.com 30 July - 31 August Alice in Wonderland A new stage version of Lewis Carroll's 'Alice in Wonderland' adapted for the stage by Daniel Winder and directed by Andrew Lynford.

From £10.50

The Lilian Bayliss Studio EC1R 4TN sadlerswells.com 7 Aug-22 Sept West Side Story One of the greatest musicals of all time, based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and packed with unforgettable songs and groundbreaking choreography by Jerome Robbins. From £15

The Little Angel Theatre N1 2DN littleangeltheatre.com To 21 July We're Going on a Bear Hunt We’re going on a bear hunt. We’re going to catch a big one. What a beautiful day! We’re not scared.

Various Times / £12.00 / Concessions £10.00

London Coliseum WC2N 4ES ballet.org.uk 20 July Ballet Buddies Open Day: Nureyev 11am-2.30pm. ENB welcome their youngest supporters to Markova House to watch the dancers in morning class or rehearsal. Buddies will learn about English National Ballet in a relaxed atmosphere, see the dancers and have the chance to ask lots of questions. The visit includes a look at costumes and pointe shoes, refreshments and souvenirs of the visit to take home. £7.50

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New Wimbledon Theatre SW19 1QG atgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledon-theatre 16–18 August Disney Live! Mickey’s Rockin’ Road Show! Put on your dancing shoes! Disney Live! is bringing a brand new, live stage show, starring favourite Disney characters to Wimbledon this summer.

Palace Theatre W1D 5AY nimaxtheatres.com 18 Jul-17 Aug Braniac Live!

Based on the Sky TV show, watch as the presenters delve fearlessly into the mysteries of science and do all of those things on stage that you're too scared to do at home. From £16.50

The Polka Theatre SW19 1SB polkatheatre.com To 18 August Charlie and Lola's Extremely New Play Don't miss everyone's favourite brother and sister who are back onstage with their new show following Polka's international hit Charlie and Lola's Best Bestest Play.

2.30pm / Wed, Thu, Fri & Sat 11.00am / £16.00 / Concessions £11.00 26 June – 17 August Three Colours Imagine a world where you are diving into the deep blue sea, hopping around with green frogs, gazing into the crackling red of a bonfire, blue, green and red delights...

11.05am & 2.35pm / £10.00 / Concessions £8.00

National Youth Theatre

The Richmond Theatre TW9 1QJ atgtickets.com/ shows/gruffaloschild/richmond-theatre/ 3-7 July Gruffalo's Child Following hot on the heels of The Gruffalo’s sell out tour and his monstrous West End success comes The Gruffalo’s Child – with attitude! Just how brave is she?

Puppet Theatre Barge W9 2PF puppetbarge.com 6, 7, 13 and 14 July Fowl Play In this farmyard adventure the arrival of a foal causes much excitement among the animals.

Times vary / £10.00 / £8.50 27 July-11 Aug The three little pigs and the wolf plus captain Grimey A lively show that breathes new life into these well-known characters - each of the pigs has an air of mischief and naivety, while the wicked wolf has just a hint of a wry smile, and Captain Grimey is the dirtiest, most miserable, one-legged sea captain in the world.

For ages 3-8.

14 Aug-1 Sept The Hare and the Tortoise and the other Tales from Aesop These well-known fables from Aesop’s famous collection are brought to life with drama and humour. Staged with beautiful lighting and carved marionettes. For ages 3+

Please say you booked as you saw them in Families!

Richmond Theatre Wed 3.00pm / Thu to Sun 10.30am & 1.00pm / £12.00 6 July Gruffalo Adventure Workshop An adventure to find the Big Bad Mouse.

12–1pm, ages 3 – 5.

The Royal Albert Hall SW7 2AP royalalberthall.com 12 July – 7 September BBC Proms Unmissable!

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

There's no room to list more here, but use our unique local searchable What’s On calendar on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk NEW!

The Southbank Centre SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson Summer 2013 Festival - Festival of Neighbourhood To 8 Sep A summer-long celebration of neighbourhoods and communities, with the site to be transformed with allotments and fruit trees, local pub, large-scale murals, flags and a complete Beanotown.

6-7 July Robin Hood and his Very Merry Men Join legendary outlaw Robin Hood and his band of very merry men as they rob from the rich to save the poor in this laugh-a-minute adventure.

Times vary / from £10 10 July to 31 August Timber The UK premiere of a joyous, log-balancing, wood-chucking, axe-juggling spectacular from a family of lumberjack circus-performers.

Times vary / from £10 13-14 July The Magical Playroom This delightful new show stars the popular CBeebies presenter Cerrie Burnell, in an original story inspired by her own childhood.

Times vary / from £10 6-20 Aug The Queens’s Knickers Dilys, the Queen's maid, is the royal custodian of her Majesty's 'intimate apparel', otherwise known as the Queen's knickers. But one day the knickers go missing, causing a national state of emergency and a diplomatic incident of catastrophic proportions.

22 Aug-1 Sept The man who planted trees A blend of comedy, puppetry and storytelling, this is an imaginative family show about a shepherd who sets out to plant a forest and transform a barren landscape. Multisensory elements allow the audience to hear the wind, feel the rain and smell the lavender. For ages 7+ 28 Aug-8 Sept Captain Flinn and the pirate dinosaurs Join Flinn as he discovers a pirate hiding in a cupboard, hold on tight as the cupboard falls away and tumbles into a real life adventure. For ages 2+

10.30am and 1.30pm / £8-£10 27 July The Bollywood Punjeet & Judy-gee Show Three and a half centuries after Samuel Pepys recorded for posterity his visit to an Italian puppet play in Covent Garden, multiculturalism has spawned a re- imagining of the Great British tradition of Punch and Judy. 10:30am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm

Theatre Royal Drury Lane WC2B 5JF reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatre-royal-drury-lane Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Roald Dahl's deliciously dark tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Willy Wonka comes to life in a brand new West End musical directed by Academy Award® winner Sam Mendes.

2.30pm and 7.30pm / From £16.50

The Unicorn Theatre SE1 2HZ unicorntheatre.com/lionboy 9-21 July Lionboy Charlie Ashanti is eleven years old. He’s a perfectly normal boy, except for one thing: he can speak to

SW18 4ES tara-arts.com/whats-on 3-6 July Tube A new interactive immersive show for babies aged 6 months – 2 years in which the wonders of the tube take centre stage.

A journey around the world in a highly interactive dance experience for children and their adults.

Featuring professional performers, music, lighting and projected images, each session invites participation between audience and performers.

For children up to 7 years old.

Young Vic SE1 8LZ youngvic.org 3-13 July Brilliant A glittering, magical introduction to theatre for 3 to 5 year-olds and their families combining movement, live music and captivating imagery to create a dreamlike world made of light.

10.30am and 1.30pm / £10

Museums & Galleries Bank of England Museum EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk/ 6 and 13 July Open Door The Bank of England and Museum will be open to visitors as part of the City of London Festival.

5.30pm-9pm To 9 Nov Cartoons & Caricatures This exhibition consists of published and unpublished material from the Bank of England's own collection of prints and drawings.

5.30pm-9pm 22 July -30 Aug World of treasure Discover the Museum's treasures by answering clues and following the trail. Some clues are easy but others will challenge even the more experienced treasure hunters. Make a treasurechest-shaped money box to take home. There's a chocolate coin for every child and prizes to be won.10am-4:30pm

The British Museum The Young Vic

The Tara Arts Theatre

What’s On

cats. When Charlie’s parents are kidnapped, he sets off on a rescue mission – with a little help from a floating circus and its pride of performing lions.

2.00pm & 7.00pm / £16.00 / Under 21 £10.00 30 July-11 Aug We dance, wee groove

WC1B 3DG britishmuseum.org To 29 Sep Life and Death: Pompeii and Herculaneum Preserved under ash, the cities lay buried for just over 1,600 years, their rediscovery providing an unparalleled glimpse into the daily life of the Roman Empire.

10.00am to 5.30pm / £15.00 / Concessions £12.50 8 page 32 6 July Green Screen Time Machine

Green Shoots Day Nursery, SW8 1AR Open for 0 to 5yr olds 8am to 6pm 0207 582 3133 www.greenshootsday nursery.coop July/August 2013

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What’s on from p.31

3.30pm / £5.80 / £4.80 To 5 July Workhouse - Segregated Lives The Florence Nightingale Museum will host an exhibition that explores the experience of the unfortunate inmates of the workhouse in nineteenth century Britain.

10am-5pm

The Foundling Museum

Bank of England Museum

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

020 8683 0222 classes held in Southfields and Wimbledon

Sibling Discount Join anytime

Use a green screen and Photoshop to create a picture of yourself interacting with some of the Museum's most fascinating objects.

11.30-3.30pm 7 July Digital Workshop - Museum Reporter Become a journalist for the day and follow clues around the galleries using mobile phones.

11.00–13.00 & 14.00–16.00 13 July Passport to the afterlife Use smartphones to follow an augmented reality trail around the Egyptian galleries.

11.30am-3.30pm 14 July Reshuffling the Deck: card game workshop Learn about card games from around the world, and work with a professional games designer to create your own personalised set of cards to take home. 11am and 2pm. Free, booking advised.

20 July Create a Mayan Comic Transform an exciting story from ancient Mexico into a comic strip using pictures from the Museum.

Print your colourful comic to take home. 11.30am3.30pm, free, drop-in.

21 July Create a travel comic Create a personalised travel journal to capture your drawings and adventures. Visit the Museum's galleries to find a special object and invent a character and turn them into a comic story using digital tablets and laptops. 11am and 2pm, free, booking advised.

27 July Magical Mosaic Masks Use Photoshop to design your own mosaic masks inspired by the fearsome Aztec gods. Print your finished mask to take home and wear. 11.30am3.30pm, free, drop-in.

28 July Manga Comic Workshop Learn the secrets of manga comic artists, then create your own manga-inspired comic with characters from the Museum to print and take home. 11am and 2pm, free, booking advised.

The Design Museum

search our comprehensive

SE1 2YD designmuseum.org To 7 July Designs of the Year 2013 The Design Museum’s Designs of the Year awards showcase the most innovative and imaginative designs from around the world, spanning seven categories: Architecture, Digital, Fashion, Furniture, Graphics, Transport and Product.

What’s On listings

The Florence Nightingale Museum

Principal: Mrs. Eliane Gerhard, BA (Hons), LRAD

Find events near you!

by date, venue, age group or location.

FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

32

SE1 7EW florence-nightingale.co.uk/ Every Wed in July and August Miss Nightingale Said An illustrated talk given by one of the museum’s curatorial team examining the incredible life and achievements of Florence Nightingale.

WC1N 1AZ foundlingmuseum.org.uk/ 6 July Dickens Day A day of creative workshops, walking tours and readings to mark the launch of Kevin Millicheap’s nano-novel, Boz and The Boy, about a young Charles Dickens and his encounter with a Foundling Hospital orphan. Drop in. Free for children and up to two accompanying adults.

10.30-13.30 & 14.30-16.30 To 15 Sep Flourish The show includes painting, sculpture and photography by talented artists up to the age of 25, each of whom has experienced the challenges of growing up being looked after by someone other than their parents.

10am-5pm 14 July Emerald Star Day with Jacqueline Wilson A day celebrating the paperback release of Emerald Star, the third installment of the Hetty Feather books by Jacqueline Wilson, with a chance to meet the author. 11am-5pm 20 July Memory Sculpture Create your own delicate paper sculpture about sharing in response to Clare Twomey’s installation ‘Exchange’. 10.30-12.30 & 13.30-16.30

The Geffrye Museum E2 8EA geffrye-museum.org.uk/period-rooms-and-gardens 28 July Family Day Something for everyone to enjoy! Young people can develop their film-making skills and children can play garden games and take part in creative craft workshops. 12.30-4.30pm.

11 Aug Bugs and blooms family day Garden-inspired fun! Play garden games, listen to summer sounds from the Toots, handle mini beasts and create glorious garden windmills. All ages. 124.30pm.

Grant Museum of Zoology WC1E 6DE ucl.ac.uk/museums/whats-on/grant_listings 30 July-3 Aug Rumble in the Jungle A trip into the jungle to uncover the animals that make the jungle their home. Free hands-on specimen based activities. Drop in between 1pm and 5pm.

Gunnersbury Park Museum W3 8LQ hounslow.info/arts-culture/historichouses-museums/gunnersbury-park-museum 21 July Explore Archaeology Bring history to life by dressing as a Roman legionary or Queen Boudicca; handle 2000-yearold artefacts and quiz the visiting archaeologist.

11am-5pm.

28 July Creepy House at Gunnersbury Creepy Storytelling in the Victorian Kitchens involve storytelling, dressing-up, and lots of scary fun in the Victorian Kitchens at 11.30am and 2pm.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on

Please send info for consideration to: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

30 and 31 July Gems and Jewels Design and create a jewelled goblet, inspired by Gunnersbury’s architecture and treasures from the collections. 10am-1pm for ages 8-12.

to discover the story behind the Museum’s collection. 10.30am - 4.30pm 21 September If the Invader Comes…

This day of hands-on activities will give you and all the family a taster of life in the Home Guard.

Horniman Museum

The National Gallery

SE23 3PQ horniman.ac.uk To 24 Nov Amazon Adventure: Vicious Fishes and Other Riches A fun family trip along the Amazon River. Learn about exotic creatures including piranhas, see live tetras and stingrays, feel the simulated zap of an electric eel and discover the environmental dangers facing the Amazon.

10.30am to 5.30pm / £3 Child, £6 Adult, £15 Family Every Sat in July and August Art Makers Have fun with art skills and exciting techniques to create something fabulous to take home.

1.30pm and 2.45pm / £3 To 15 Sep Rainforest of the Sea Stunning photographic exhibition showing the incredible diversity of life within the coral triangle in South East Asia. Free

WC2N 5DN nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun in July and Aug Family Sundays Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together.

11am and 3pm Every Sun in July and Aug Magic Carpet Storytelling Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day. Ages 2-5 10.30-11am and 11.30am–12pm

Imperial War Museum SE1 6HZ iwm.org.uk From 29 July. Horrible histories ®: Spies Based on the popular children’s book series written by Terry Deary. Visitors will be immersed into the world of Second World War spy-craft, including codes and cyphers, disguises, camouflage, forgeries and gadgets.

1 Aug Terry Dreary Join Horrible Histories® author Terry Deary and delve into the most foul facts, dreadful details and strange stories that make his bestselling books so appealing. 12.30 and 2.30pm. Ages 8+, ticketed event.

10 and 17 Aug From page to stage with Horrible Histories® Spies Help create a sneaky spy scene with the theatre company behind the Horrible Histories® live shows. All ages. 2.30pm – 3.30pm, ticketed.

29 July – 5 May 2014 Architecture of War Bringing together highlights from IWM’s art collection, Architecture of War presents artists’ responses to the impact of warfare on our surrounding landscapes and environments.

WC2H 0HE npg.org.uk 20 July and 17 Aug Storytelling for families 10.30am and 1.30pm, ages 3+ Storytelling followed by a fun art activity.

20 July, 7 and 17 Aug Family Art Workshop 11.30am and 2.30pm, ages 5+ Explore portraits in the Collection, followed by an art activity.

5–30 Aug Family Workshops- Look at me!

11am-4pm, four weeks of activities inspired by the BP Portrait Award 2013. (A mix of ticketed and drop-in events).

SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk/ Every Saturday in July and August A Soldier's Life in...Workshops Drop in to these one-hour Saturday workshops and learn about the life of a soldier.

2pm and 3.30pm 27 - 28 July 2013 Toy Soldier Weekend Enjoy recreations of key events that the British Army has been involved in and meet our curators

SW7 5BD nhm.ac.uk 5 July Dino Snores Ever wondered what goes on at the Natural History Museum at night? Then come and sleep over. Age 7 - 11 7.00pm / £49.00 6 July Insect Day Discover the world of insects right on your doorstep and find out how you can help with the 8 Museum’s research. 12-5pm page 34

EC2Y 5HN museumoflondon.org.uk 16-21 Jul Festival of Archaeology Behind the scenes tours of stores and laboratories at the Museum and the archaeological archive.

17 Aug – 1 Sep Fun Summer Workshops

Museum of London Docklands

July/August 2013

®

Warm loving environment for 2+ to 5 year olds Montessori-qualified staff International atmosphere Light and airy premises Private sunny patio

Fulham /Hammersmith border Please ring— Morning sessions plus Tuesdays 1-3pm

020 7381 3511 020 7736 8729

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

Day Nurs on er k Yu

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The National Army Museum

The Natural History Museum

Museum of London

Contact Vicky Barnett BA, MSc, PGCE Tel: 020 8876 2553 barnes@firstclasslearning.co.uk putney@firstclasslearning.co.uk www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

National Maritime Museum

E14 4AL museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands 3-17 August Summer Workshops

WC2E 7BB ltmuseum.co.uk To see the full summer listing for July and August see page 20.

Tuition Study Centres

National Portrait Gallery

E10 9NF rmg.co.uk Every Sunday in July and Aug Discover Sundays Be inspired by our maritime past and explore your personal connections to the sea.

11.30am and 2pm Every Saturday in July and Aug Explore Saturdays Meet a character from the past and take part in an exciting performance that will bring maritime history to life.

12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm Every Tuesday in July and Aug Play Tuesdays Young children can have fun with their families as they explore the Museum through making, music, dance and drama.

10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2pm / £3 To 15 Sep Visions of the Universe Looking at the development of telescopy, photography, and our understanding of our place in the cosmos. £8/7 International Slavery Remembrance Day A day of remembrance on the anniversary of the first successful slave uprising in the western hemisphere – on 23 August in Haiti in 1791.

23 August 2013 31 July, 7, 14, 21, 28 August Out of this world Explore the Museum’s Visions of the Universe exhibition with your own astronomer guide 25 July – 2 September Message in a bottle A message to a loved one, from a sailor lost at sea.

A message to the nation, a reminder of a forgotten past. Throughout history, people have set adrift small messages-in-bottles at sea.

London Transport Museum

Maths, English and 11+

For children (2-5) Full/part time vacancies Bright well-resourced centre Pre-school education guaranteed Flexible hours/days Children in small groups Offers French, dance & swimming Positive emphasis on physical education * Very good OFSTED report

* * * * * *

To view call 020 8675 Limited spaces

8838

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

33

What’s on artyfizz Art fun for all ages and abilities Open Monday to Friday every week (weekends by prior arrangement) Small Groups, usually no more than 6 participants 4-6 months Stimulating the senses 6-12 months Experiencing new sensations 1-2 years ‘Playing’ with paint on a large scale 2-4 years Introducing Art & Craft materials and tools 4-8 years Project based Art & Craft – ‘After School Club’ 9-99 years Bespoke ‘Book Making’, Eco-dyeing, Printing etc.

Themed Parties for all ages at the Studio, at home or elsewhere.

Artyfizz, Ground Floor, The Courtyard 286 Upper Richmond Road London SW15 6TH 07413751871 www.artyfizz.com

There's no room to list more here, but use our unique local searchable What’s On calendar on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk NEW!

13 July Crocodiles Rock What was the earliest croc and how have they changed throughout history?

12.30pm and 2.30pm To 15 Sep Sensational Butterflies Exhibition From chomping caterpillars to beautiful butterflies, the Museum comes alive this summer.

10.00am to 5.30pm / £4.50 / Family £16.00

Sir John Soane’s Museum 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields, WC2A 3BP soane.org 31 July – 29 Aug Summer Holiday Workshops A range of holiday workshops for ages 7+, including Egyptian Death Masks and making your own shadow puppets. Booking essential. £20 whole day, £12 half day

Tate Britain SW1P 4RG tate.org.uk/britain Throughout June and July Liminal Engage with sculpture through touch, interaction and collaboration. All ages, 11am-3pm. Every weekend and Thursdays and Fridays in the school holidays Friday 26 July, 10.00-15.00 Big & Small FREE No booking required, just turn up Explore the art and architecture of Tate Britain through sound, sculpture and performance. Take part in free creative and interactive activities all around the galleries.

For families with under 5s (older brothers and sisters welcome too).

The Wallace Collection W1U 3BN wallacecollection.org/collections/event/5049 7 July The Little Draw Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities 1.30pm – 4.30pm 2 July What is it like to work in a Museum?

Careers Open Day Come and meet museum professionals, including the Director of the Wallace Collection, at this open day for sixth form students interested in museums. 10.15am – 4pm 25-26 and 29-30 July Four-day Junior Summer Art School £22 per child for each two-day workshop or £40 for both workshops. Ages 10+.

4 August The Little Draw Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities, 1.30pm – 4.30pm.

15-16 August Drop-in Summer Fun! Free, drop-in, ages 6+, 2pm – 4pm 6-7 Aug Photography Workshop 11am – 4pm, £22, ages 13+

Tate Modern SE1 9TG tate.org.uk Under 5s Zone A play space for under 5s, inviting children on a creative, physical and sensory exploration of themes inspired by Cubist art works. Free

V&A Museum of Childhood E2 9PA museumofchildhood.org.uk/ 13 July New Voices Festival The Museum grounds and neighbouring Museum Gardens will be a hive of activity with a rich line up of live bands, dance troupes, DJs, carnival processions, theatre, workshops, stalls and food.

12-6pm 28 July Summer Festival Join them for our ever popular annual summer event, with the best in family festival fun right on your doorstep in Bethnal Green. 11.30-4.30pm Every Friday in August Family Fun Fridays Looking for something to do with the kids this summer? Come along for free, fun-filled activities every Friday in August to enjoy art, games and sunshine. 10.30; 11.15; 12.00 To March 2014 War Games This exhibition explores the relationship between conflict and children’s play, providing an insight into the ways toys have been influenced by warfare from 1800 to the present day.

The Victoria And Albert Museum SW7 2RL vam.ac.uk To 11 Aug David Bowie Is… Handwritten lyrics, original costumes.

Photography. Set designs, album artwork and rare performance material from the past five decades.

Advanced booking advised.

To 14 July Treasures of the Royal Courts The majesty of the courts of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I to Ivan the Terrible and the early Romanovs in a major exhibition celebrating 500 years of exchange between Britain and Russia.

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The Wallace Collection

Days Out Battersea Park Children’s Zoo SW11 4NJ batterseaparkzoo.co.uk Throughout July and August - With a zoo, animal encounters, play area and café, a visit to the world famous Battersea Park Children's Zoo is a must.

Chelsea Physic Garden SW3 4HS chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 31 July Paper Stixx & Wonderful Wire Sculptures A great opportunity to have a go at making wonderful sculptures to take home, discover hidden talents and see paper, metal and wire in new ways. See www.darcyturner.com Please bring some newspapers with you. Age 6+ 1 Aug Festival of Ecology An ecological buffet, with a selection of different activities taking place throughout the day.

5-29 Aug Summer Holiday Workshops Art of the Garden, Creepy Crawling, A Passion for Plants- gardening for beginners, Garden Safari & Microscopic Marvels, What’s the use of plants?

Cutty Sark SE10 9HT rmg.co.uk/about/press/cutty-sark-april-2012 6-7 July July family fun weekend: Beneath the

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Please send info for consideration to: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

waves What lies beneath the waves? Use your imagination and some creative materials to make a watery seascape underneath Cutty Sark’s hull.

11.30-13.30 | 14.00-16.00 3, 4, August August family fun weekend: Fly the flag Learn how to write a coded message using signal flags and design your own flag in this family workshop.

7, 28 July, 4, 11, 18, 25 August 2013 Ahoy captain! Join Captain Woodget, Cutty Sark’s longest serving master, and hear tales of his voyages across the high seas. 11.00 | 12.00 | 13.30 | 14.30 21, 22 August My mini sailor If you could be a sailor, what job would you like to do on the ship?

Would you be the cook or the Captain? 11.3013.30 | 14.00-16.00 23, 26 August 2013 Flying fish Discover what sailors on board Cutty Sark ate for dinner and make your own flying fish to take home. 11.3013.30 | 14.00-16.00 Throughout August All hands on deck Look out for demonstrations of sailing skills and hands-on activities on the Main Deck of ship.

What’s on

24-26 August Tudor Joust Cheer on knights in armour as they thunder across the field on their magnificent chargers.

Clapham Family Osteopath Cranial specialist Julia Finlay B.Ost M.Sc (Paed Ost), Registered Osteopath

HMS Belfast

Babies Children (inc special needs) Mothers pre and post natal All the family

SE1 2JH iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast 13-14 July, 10-22 August Dazzle Camouflage How do you hide a ship at sea? Learn how dazzle camouflage was used to keep HMS Belfast from being discovered by other ships and take part in an animation workshop and create your own camouflage.

11am – 12.30pm and 2pm – 4pm / Admission fees apply

Contact: juliafinlayosteopath@gmail.com Tel: 07779 017965 www.claphamfamilyosteopath.co.uk

Eltham Palace Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich SE9 5QE elthampalace.org.uk 28-30 July Time Travellers Go… Awesome Archaeology Let the kids get stuck into history with the chance to uncover clues and handle artefacts. Take part in a sand pit dig to unveil secrets from the past. Plus plenty of hands on activities.

4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 25-27 Aug Time Travellers Go… Knights & Princesses, Soldiers School, Medieval Fun & Games, Ugly Bug Safari. Time Travellers events for kids. Step into the past and don't forget to bring your Time Travellers passport to collect your event sticker.

Golden Hinde SE1 9DG goldenhinde.com Throughout July and August Tudor, Pirate and Drake Fun Days Step back in time and learn the history of the House of Tudor in a unique way that children will love. Just who was Sir Francis Drake? Relive the life of this famous Tudor explorer through informative stories and fantastic games.

Dates and times vary / £7 Adults, £5 Children, £20 Family 3 August Tudor Fayre Stalls, games, music, delicious food and Tudor themed performances throughout the day.

Hampton Court Palace KT8 9AU hrp.org.uk 9-14 July RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2013 Gardens galore! Visit the world's largest annual garden show in the grounds of the spectacular Hampton Court Palace. £15 Fridays and Sundays, July-Sep Salacious Gossip Tours See the Baroque palace in a more intimate light and hear the scandalous stories of life in the Baroque court. £25 6-7 July Tudor Cookery Their Historic cooks are toiling in the Kitchens of King Henry VIII, preparing the exotic dishes for his majesty as well as the plainer yet still lavish food for the court.

27-28 July, 28-29 September Open Air Cinema 4 August Cyclemania 2013 Stunt cycle teams and family fun.

HMS Belfast

Kensington Palace W8 4PX hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace 13-14 July Dancing through the decades Dance through the decades at this free, fun event in the palace gardens.

From 4 July Fashion Rules: dress from the collections of HM The Queen, Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales This summer, Historic Royal Palaces will present a glamorous exhibition with a new take on the story of the monarchy in the late twentieth century. 1-3 August Open Air Cinema

Kew Gardens TW9 3AB kew.org/visit-kew-gardens/whatson/easter-2013/index.htm To 1 Sep IncrEdibles Festival Try boating around a floating pineapple on the Palm House pond, travel the world in their global kitchen garden or join a tea party with a twist.

Morden Hall Park SM4 5JD nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park 7 July Green Day Out A fun day out for all the family with a variety of stalls, live music and entertainment. 11am-4pm 25 July Precious Plants Discover more about plants and have a go at fun crafts and activities. £1.50 / £4 per family 1 August River Explorers Meet the creatures that live in the River Wandle and have a go at fun crafts and activities.

8 August Squirrel Survival Find out more about red and grey squirrels and why they don’t live happily together.

15 August Beautiful Butterflies Search the park for real butterflies and have a go at making your own butterfly craft to take home!

22 August Amazing Ants Find out more about how these insects live and work together and join in fun ant-themed activities!

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July/August 2013

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There's no room to list more here, but use our unique local searchable What’s On calendar on FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk NEW!

What’s on

Wandsworth Museum 29 August Story Sprites Help us to capture stories from around the park before they are stolen by the story sprites!

15 August Summer Theatre 26–28 July, 23–25 August Pop up Cinema Open air cinema in the Rose Garden.

Refreshments and gourmet popcorn, picnics welcome. £8/10

Osterley Park And House TW7 4RB nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park 13-14 July Osterley Weekend Enjoy activities for all the family and free entry for all to house; gardens during this fun packed weekend. 12pm – 5pm 19 July Historic fashion show See 18th century costumes parade the catwalk in the Long Gallery. 6.30pm – 8pm, £5 24 July Outdoor Explorer – 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ Try a different outdoor activity each week this summer. 12pm – 4pm,

The Royal Observatory SE10 9NF rmg.co.uk/visit/events/alien-revolution To 8 Sep Alien Revolution Are we alone in this Universe? Explore the subject in an exhibition which takes an intimate look at the history of our relationship with extraterrestrial life.

Throughout July and August Meet The Neighbours Meet our neighbours in space in this entertaining interactive show, where you decide which planets to visit. 5yrs+, 12.45, 13.45 / £6.50/£4.50 Throughout July and August Solar System, Galaxy, Universe Exploring the scale of the Solar System, Galaxy and Universe and how we measure it. 5yrs+, 12.45, 13.45 / £6.50/£4.50 Throughout July and August Space Safari Join Ted the teddy bear for live music and rhyme as he journeys throughout the solar system looking for the Great Bear. Age 7 and under, 11.00, 12.45, 13.45 / £6.50/£4.50 18 July Sci-Fi Movie Night: It Came From Outer Space As part of Alien Season.

15 August Sci-Fi Movie Night: This Island Earth As part of Alien Season.

Syon House and Gardens TW8 8JG syonpark.co.uk To 7 July Archaeology at Syon Park Community Dig and Training Excavation.

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The Tower Of London EC3N 4AB hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon/WhatsOn From 4 July Fortress Tower Welcome to the greatest fortress in the land! Knights and squires prepare to do battle for the Kingdom of France.

11 July Tudor beer tasting Introducing the social history of the Tower and its many drinking dens over the years, followed by a tasting of traditional Tudor-style beers. 14.00–16.30 / £30/£26 27-28 July Tower of London Archaeology Weekend Get ‘hands on’ with the Tower’s annual archaeology extravaganza! Go down onto the Tower’s river foreshore and see what you can discover (see timings), speak to experts and enthusiasts, see displays and try fun activities.

The London Wetlands Centre SW13 9WT org.uk/visit/london Big Bat Walk Their bat walks give you the chance not only to see these amazing flying mammals and their astonishing aerial acrobatics but you can learn more about them with a talk by one of their bat experts in our theatre before heading out to the reserve.

Every Thurs from 11 July to 31 August

6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 July, 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18 Aug Bringing Audley End to Life Come and see the Service Wing and Stables brought to life by costumed characters at Audley.

22 July – 23 Aug Time Traveller's Go WWII Training School, Time Travellers Go… Kings & Queens, Time Travellers Go… Ugly Bug Safari, Time Travellers Go… Victorian Fun & Games, Time Travellers Go… Secrets & Spies 3 Aug Audley End Concerts: The Greatest 80s Party… Ever!

An extraordinary 80’s ensemble bring the retro party back to Audley End! Chart-topping acts will be taking the stage to (hopefully) bring out the sunshine and have you dancing into the night.

7.30pm 4 Aug Audley End Concerts: Michael Ball Sings The Musicals Following his current sold out UK tour Britain's leading musical star and Olivier Award winner, Michael Ball, will be performing at the Summer Concerts at Audley End. 7.30pm 25-26 Aug WWII: Soldiers and Spies Visit Audley End House and Gardens aka Station 43 this bank holiday weekend and be transported back to the time of WWII. 11am-4pm

Bodiam Castle TN32 5UA nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiamcastle/things-to-see-and-do/events/ 6-7 July Art at the Castle Visit the castle and join in a weekend of art activities in the castle. 11am-4pm 05 July Batty at Bodiam This is a chance to see and meet the bats that live in Bodiam’s towers close up.

7pm / £40 20-21 July Adventures in Archaeology See what archaeologists have uncovered at Bodiam over the years and have a go digging for treasure in the castle's sandpit. 11am-4pm 25 July – 3 Sep Have-A-Go-Archery and Trebuchet in Action Visitors can test their archery skills with HandsOn-History and take part in a variety of hands on activities before witnessing the might of the trebuchet as it lays siege to the castle. 11am-4pm

Brooklands Museum KT13 0QN brooklandsmuseum.com

ZSL London Zoo NW1 4RY zsl.org Every Fri in July Zoo Lates The Zoo opens after hours and invites you to explore the wilds of the ultimate urban jungle. 610pm 15 Aug Streak for Tigers It's time to unleash your wild side and show us your stripes in support of the ZSL Sumatran Tiger campaign. 6.30pm, £20, spectator ticket £15 30 Aug – 1 Sep Little Creatures family festival A weekend of big fun for your little ones. There’ll be colourful characters to meet, roving entertainers, interactive stage shows, storytelling, shadow puppetry and the magical fairy queen’s rainbow trail through the enchanted woodland walk.

Out of Town Audley End House and Gardens CB11 4JF english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/audleyend-house-and-gardens

Brooklands 5-30 Aug School Holiday Family Activities Car rides, Bertie the Brooklands Bear, trails for children and young photographer competition.10am - 5pm

Chiddingstone Castle TN8 7AD chiddingstonecastle.org.uk 23, 30 July, 6, 13, 20 Aug Llama Trekking

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Please send info for consideration to: whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk

Take a Llama around the grounds of Chiddingstone Castle, 11am-2.30pm

Diary dates/Events

The Hop Farm Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PY 01622 872068 thehopfarm.co.uk 20 July – 2 September

Professor Quantum’s Magnificent Time Tour Meet at the bus stop, 6 Northumberland Ave WC2N 5BY timetour.co.uk Saturdays and Sundays in July. Combing theatre and technical trickery with an insightful look at London's rich past, aboard the Professor's 'Incredible Time Bus'. All ages, 2.45pm, £14/£20

Curious Trail

Hop Farm Summer Fun at The Farm!

Enjoy free attractions including the popular outdoor play areas, animal farm and more.

Kent & East Sussex Railway TN30 6HE kesr.org.uk 27-29 July A Day Out With Thomas Thomas the Tank Engine™ is pulling into the Kent & East Sussex Railway and he's bringing some of his friends with him too! 10.25am, 11.00am, 11.55am, 12.30pm, 1.25pm, 2.00pm & 2.55pm

West Norwood Cemetery, Norwood Rd, SE27 9JU westnorwoodcemetery.com 22 June - 28 July. The oldest Gothic Cemetery in the world launches an amazing outdoor art project. Curious Trail sees 22 artists given a platform to promote their work in a beautiful setting.

Sprout Arts SW16 6SQ sproutarts.com 2-13 July Exhibition of Photography

Swaffield Primary School, Swaffield Road, SW18 2SA 6 July With Mad Hat Competition, Tea Cup Ride, face painting, inflatables, Punch and Judy show and more.

First Aid for Life Balham and Westminster firstaidforlife.org.uk 9 July. The emergency course A 3-hour course covering care of the unconscious baby and child as well as most commonly occurring injuries and illnesses such as choking, bleeding, breaks, bleeds, burns, head injury and febrile convulsions. 9.30am-12.30pm, £60/£65.

BP Big Screens 2013 Screens across London 11 and 18 July See opera and ballet from The Royal Opera for free. Puccini’s La Rondine, 11 July at 7.30pm, Puccini’s Tosca, 18 July at 7.30pm

Streatham Festival Locations across Streatham 11-14 July Dancing, comedy and plenty of glamour, the Streatham Festival 2013 is bigger and better than ever. A vintage fair, workshops and trails for children. visit www.streathamfestival.co.uk

SW4 0AT 0207 622 8259 vennstreetmarket.co.uk

Double Vision brings to Sprout the latest photographic works of landscape photographers Sophie Martin-Castex and Brian Sharland.

Benjamin Franklin House WC2N 5NG benjaminfranklinhouse.org/site/sections/news/event s.html 4 July Independence Day Party A celebration of Independence Day at Benjamin Franklin House. Enjoy cake and a glass of bubbly in the world’s only remaining Franklin home.

12-2pm / £8/£5 Friends and concessions

Summer Fayre

SO42 7ZN beaulieuevents.co.uk 6-29 August Summer Holiday Creative Fun Get creative throughout August in the National Motor Museum. Join in drop-in activities inspired by the museum's outstanding collections.

Trinity St Mary's School & St Mary & St John The Divine Church Summer Fayre 6 July.

Lots of fun for all the family including BBQ, cake stall, food hall, face painting, toy stall, bouncy castles. Entrance 50p, under 3's free, 3pm to 5pm

Painshill Park

Get Active Wandsworth Festival

KT11 1JE Cobham, Surrey painshill.co.uk 29 July – 16 Aug Wild Summer Camp Have a wild time this summer with den building, woodland craft, campfires, treasure hunts and extreme adventures. 8-13 years, £35 per day or £150 for 5 days, 9am – 4.30pm 11 Aug Henfold Birds of Prey Flying Display Watch fantastic flying displays and see owls, hawks, falcons and eagles. 2pm–4pm 14 Aug Teddy Bears Story Time Bring along your favourite teddy for a picnic and a story in the landscape. Stories at 2pm and 3.30pm

King George's Park SW18 wandsworth.gov.uk/active 13 July Getting Wandsworth residents of all ages active and continue the feel good factor from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. 12-5pm

National Motor Museum

Mad Hatter's Tea Party

Venn Street

Leeds Castle ME17 1PL leeds-castle.com 9 and 23 July Behind the Scenes Tour Find out more about the State Bedrooms at Leeds Castle, which are not open to the public.

11.30am / £5 22 July Below Stairs Tour Your chance to see areas of the castle not normally open to the public. £5 25-27 July Open Air Theatre: Shakespeare’s “As You Like It” The Lord Chamberlain’s Men revive the traditions of Elizabethan theatre, performing with an all-male cast. 7.30pm, £17£12 24-26 Aug Knight & Princess School Join Leeds Castle’s Knight and Princess School.

Brave knights can dress up in chainmail and helmets in the Armour Zone and try out their combat skills in a foam sword battle (suitable for ages 2 to 10).

What’s on

Devas SW11 5EN puppetplanet.co.uk 5-7 July Art Exhibition: Emerge An exhibition where artists work alongside young people.

13 July Venn Street Market High Quality Local Produce, flowers, hot food and crafts. 11am-4pm

NCT Wandsworth and Wimbledon Aspire Centre, Merton Road SW18 5JU 13 July NCT Cheeky Monkeys Tea Party Local parents looking for a fun day out with the kids are invited to bring them along to monkey around at NCT Wandsworth and Wimbledon branch’s Cheeky Monkeys Tea Party and help raise money to support new and expectant parents.

10am to 1pm. www.nct.org.uk/branches/wimbledonwandsworth/events/cheeky-monkeys-tea-party

Wimbledon RFC SW20 0ET legendsrugby.co.uk 13 July Legends Rugby Family Festival Sport, music and family entertainment where fans will get the chance to play alongside rugby greats including Martin Johnson, Josh Lewsey, Martin Corry and Serge Betsen. £35/£45

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from p.37

Diary dates and events

Palace gardens. 8-12 yrs, £15 27 Aug. Fulham Palace Fruit and Vegetable Workshop - the perfect time for a food workshop using the produce grown at the Palace. 10.30am3.30pm, £19 28 Aug. Holiday family drop-in: Food Glorious Food - food related fun in their gardens.

2-3.30pm.

Kids Week 2013

LolliBop

Streatham Common's Rookery Centenary Celebration Streatham Common 13 July. The celebrations will culminate with a family friendly ‘Playing the Rookery’ event involving local school children, artists, musicians and dancers. freewebs.com/streathamfriends/rookerycentenary. htm

YMCA Wimbledon 200 Broadway SW19 1RY mum2mummarket.co.uk 13 July Mum2mum market baby and children's nearly new sale. Buy top quality second hand baby and children's clothes, toys, books and equipment at a fraction of the high street price or sell and keep 100% of the proceeds. 2-4pm, £2

Pop Up Screens Bishops Park and South Park SW6 popupscreens.co.uk

Various London Theatres, kidsweek.co.uk 1-31 August The annual London theatre initiative Kids Week returns for a full month this summer following last year's specially extended event as part of the London 2012 Festival. Now in its 16th year, Kids Week encourages young people to experience the magic of live theatre as one child aged 16 or under can go free to participating shows when accompanied by an adult paying full price.

LolliBop 2013

Silent Picturehouse SE1 9BU ba.com/SilentPicturehouse 22-26 July Summer Screenings British Airways launches Silent Picturehouse - a unique cinema experience showing travel inspired films in the evening and Disney films for kids by day.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park E20 2ST ticketmaster.co.uk/openeastfestival.

27-28 July Open East Festival A weekend of music, food and theatre to celebrate the anniversary of London 2012. £9.50 for adults, £6.00 for children aged 5 - 16, and under 5’s go free

Fulham Palace SW6 6EA fulhampalace.org 30 July. Drama in the Garden Workshop work with their playwright to develop some drama in the Fulham Palace gardens. 10.30am3.30pm, £19 31 July. Holiday family drop-in: Creepy Crawlies - a craft session inspired by the creepy crawlies found in the garden.

26 August. Bank Holiday Family drop in - take part in their free garden trail and learn more about the history of Fulham Palace. 2-3.30pm 14 July, 11 Aug. Museum drop-in afternoon Try on Georgian costume, handle artefacts and learn about the history of Fulham Palace. 2-3.30pm 13 Aug. Sculpture Workshop - Led by a local artist, come along to this junk modelling workshop inspired by the Surrey Sculpture Trail and Fulham

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park E20 2ST lollibopfestival.co.uk 16-18 Aug The Big Bash for Little People returns to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Kensington Roof Gardens W8 5SA roofgardens.virgin.com 5, 6, 11, 12 Aug Pop up Theatre - Alice in Wonderland and Romeo and Juliet Two live shows, Alice in Wonderland and Romeo and Juliet within the picturesque Tudor Gardens. £65/£40, including BBQ or hog roast.

Feast at Battersea Park London's Biggest Picnic Battersea Park, foodiesfestival.com 16-18 August The exciting new event invites London’s foodies to experience a picnic extravaganza featuring the UK’s largest selection of restaurant, street and artisan food. £22/£10, 11am9pm

British Museum WC1B 3DG bfi.org.uk/gothic 29-31 August BFI Monster Weekend Part of the BFI Gothic Blockbuster Project.

Three nights of spectacular open air screenings at the British Museum featuring three classic 1950’s horror films: Night of the Demon, introduced by its star Peggy Cummins, Dracula and The Mummy – both starring Sir Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing.

Silent Picturehouse Kids © Nick Morrish, British Airways

Pop Up Screens 13 July, 17, 18 August, 7 Sep Family-friendly movies in the great outdoor

The Rose Theatre KT1 1HL 15 July Soldier's Tale A musical parable by Igor Stravinsky, to be read, played and danced.1pm, £5 - £15. www.theconstellaorchestra.co.uk

Chiswick House and Gardens W4 2RP chgt.org.uk 19 July Gulliver’s Travels A children’s open air theatre show set within the beautiful historic gardens of Chiswick House. Bring a picnic and enjoy this popular children’s classic.

6.30–8.30pm

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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July/August 2013

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