Families London SW issue 217 June 2012 by Families Magazine

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

June 2012 Iss

ISSN ue 21 6 135 4-95 Est 53 19

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South West Find us online:

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The French Nursery school Bilingual education in SW7 and SW1 • 2-5 years French • Spanish See our advert on page 14 For more information please call on 0207 259 2151 or email: marie-laurence@thefrenchnurseryschool.com

Party

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Pilkington Construction Design and build

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Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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

Cover picture from Sarah Butters Families Leeds

SouthWest

June 2012

Contents 04-05

Local news & information 06-07

06-07

Community Spirit Spotlight on Community Theatre

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

10-11

Playgroups listing Part 4

Reader Survey

13-15

Fetes and Festivals

Cranial Osteopath

Parenting

13-15

Next issue: July/Aug 2012 Deadline: early June •“Families® South West” heads a group of magazines. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. •There are over 38 UK local editions with a print run of more than 600,000 copies in all, in which you can advertise too. Oh, and we have a very useful website… familiesonline.co.uk

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Coping with failure

18-21

Summer holiday activities

23-31

PARTY SPECIAL

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

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

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

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Directory and classified

Party Special

Little Rascals

Your local traditional toy shop for ages 0-6 ! off e... % l 50 e s a o t s Up f lea do en

Soft and wooden toys from brands including:

•Jellycat, •BigJigs, •John Crane, •Wheelybugs, •ShooShoos, •Grobags©, •Greeting Cards, and more!

Visit our enticing shop at 140 Merton Road South Wimbledon SW19 1EH 020 8542 9979 Open Tues to Sat 9-5.30 (Between Polka Theatre and South Wimbledon Tube) www.little-rascals.co.uk

June 2012

News

Compiled by Joanna Parry

Need to get fit? Do you want to start running, but aren’t sure how? Do you want to improve on core strength? And do you need to bring your baby along? If so, try The Running School at Body Logic Health. ‘The New Mums Running Club’ is specifically designed for post-natal women to begin running and improve fitness. It is run by qualified physiotherapists who possess additional qualifications as running coaches and specialists in post-natal Pilates and, most importantly, babies are welcome! Designed to ease mums into running, classes are held Tuesday mornings at 11am, meet just inside Battersea Park at Sun Gate. £6 per session or £30 for 6 sessions. Book in advance on 020 7924 6068 or info@body-logic.co.uk. www.body-logic.co.uk

Leading tuition specialists come to Battersea A new tutoring centre in Battersea has got children and teenagers brushing up on their Shakespeare. NumberWorks’nWords aims to help all students be the best that they can be in maths and English, while making learning enjoyable and providing a happy and stimulating environment. “We ask parents to bring in their child for a free assessment,” says founder Lauren Weatherly, “then, following the National Curriculum, we look at their needs and develop a study plan specifically for them. NumberWorks’nWords gives me the chance to make a real difference to young people.” If your child needs extra support call 0207 223 1882 for a free assessment. www.numberworks.com

ial Spec k e e yW Safet d l i h C

Offer

Is your home safe? A new Fulham company, Baby Safe Homes, has published a survey into hazards in London homes. The survey reveals new risks from furnishings and equipment, including unsecured flat screen TVs, open-tread or spiral staircases, heated towel rails and pressure gates. As part of Child Safety Week 18-24 June, Baby Safe Homes are giving Families Readers the opportunity to try their new ‘baby-proofing’ service: after an initial survey of your home they will provide, for a small fee, a consultation on safety issues. A list of tasks and recommended products will be provided and then, if requested, they can install all the required equipment within a matter of hours. Installation costs vary and equipment costs are competitive to those found on the high street or Internet. Call 0207 559 1491 for more info. www.babysafehomes.co.uk

Career with NCT

Win a holiday! Don’t forget to enter our competition to win one of the best-loved family holidays in the land! One lucky family can win a 3-night stay with Feather Down Farm Days worth £500, as farmers Robert and Jayne look forward to welcoming you to Billingsmoor, their picture-postcard organic farm in Devon. Enjoy spectacular views across rolling countryside and watch their tranquil heard of Fresian cows wander lazily home from a day’s grazing, while your children enjoy the sort of freedom you remember from your youth. Meet kune kune pigs, sheep, ducks, geese and chickens in the animal paddock, and you’ll soon see that the cares of urban life will lift from your shoulders! To enter go by 1st July to www.familiesonline.co.uk/featherdown and quote competition code FDF2012. www.featherdown.co.uk

Would you like to train as a practitioner with NCT? The University of Worcester and NCT have joined forces to provide universityaccredited training for those wanting to support parents on their journey from pregnancy to parenthood. Admissions have just opened for this new course, which offers a flexible training, perfect for anyone considering a change to a more family-friendly career or looking to return to work after having a baby. With tutorials across the UK and study days hosted regionally, students can complete the majority of their studies without travelling to Worcester. So, if you're looking for a rewarding job you can fit around your family, becoming an NCT practitioner could be just the thing. www.nct.org.uk/nct-college

Dress to impress For gorgeous, floaty summer shorts and blouses for your little ones, plus stunning tunic dresses and summer cardigans, look no further than Claphambased Kemp & Co. They specialise in traditional yet fresh designs – I love their cotton linen pleated skirt with bow for £45, perfect for a little (or big!) girl. Order online www.kempandcolondon.com or call 0845 680 2328.

Race for the kids It’s not too late to sign up for the RBC Race for the Kids 5k Family Fun Run on 24 June, in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity. The charity event of the year, it’s a great opportunity for families to get together, have a fun day out and raise money for a fantastic cause. The race starts at 10am at Battersea Park, with deadline for entries 17 June. Entry fees £15 adult, £10 child, under 5s free. All ages are welcome and you can walk, jog or run so gather your friends and family and get involved. All money raised will help rebuild and refurbish the hospital, allowing them to care for more sick children and their families. Good luck to Norbury Hill Cubs nursery! Find out more at www.gosh.org/rbcrace-for-the-kids/why-we-need-your-help or sign up on www.raceforthekids.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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

Music in Silence The Music House for Children introduces a new project for very young deaf children, exploring how music can facilitate and support vocalizing. Involved with early years music teaching, training and workshops for nearly twenty years, founder Emma Hutchinson has devised ‘Music in Silence’ to demonstrate the powerful influences that music has in supporting young deaf children’s engagement with others, as well as assisting with aural focus, phonetic understanding, physical and sensory development. Using a range of instruments Emma will deliver weekly sessions with deaf children and their families from 1 – 6yrs. Supported by Youth Music, The Music House for Children is working with Play Association Hammersmith & Fulham to make this project the success it deserves to be, and Emma hopes to put her findings forward as a recommendation for other groups in the UK to adopt. www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk

New classes at Eddie Catz Check out the new classes that have just arrived at Eddie Catz. Monday afternoons in Wimbledon welcome Twinkle Toes ballet – fun, imaginative dance classes for ages 3 - 5. Your child will learn basic ballet and modern dance, while exploring different rhythms and patterns and improving co-ordination and posture. Classes 2.30 and 4pm. Or visit Putney on Thursdays for Hartbeeps - imaginative play and learning set to contemporary soundtracks. A completely original experience for your little one and you. Classes: 11am – Happy House, walking to 4 yrs; 12pm – Baby Bells, birth to sitting; 2pm – Baby beeps, sitting to walking. 0845 201 1268, www.eddiecatz.com

News Animals join Games Families SW readers are invited to snap up tickets to see the Animal Athletes at ZSL London Zoo and take part in London Zoo Live! As part of the London 2012 Inspire Programme, the Zoo’s very own Animal Athletes are o for gearing up to show off their o Zo t s t e sporting abilities in a new Tick grabs series of events to demonstrate the animal’s natural athletic behaviours. Busy perfecting their diving skills, the inhabitants at Penguin Beach are flapping with excitement as they get ready for the Animal Athletes trail, while visitors can see macaws soaring over their heads, meerkats showing off their gymnastic balancing talents and Bob the tiny burrowing owl embarking on a 1m sprint. www.zsl.org

Nene gosling

Summer reading challenge Libraries across the UK are gearing up to introduce children to an imagination paradise that will keep them reading throughout the school summer holidays. Story Lab, the 2012 Summer Reading Challenge™ run by The Reading Agency, an independent charity, aims to inspire children to read in their holidays. With incentives and rewards, plus a certificate or medal if they complete the Challenge, children can sign up at your local library from the end of June. “Pop down to your local library and find out more about what's happening,” says Anne Sarrag, Summer Reading Challenge director, “and help your children discover a love of stories whilst they develop their reading skills over the summer holidays.” An interactive Story Lab website www.story-lab.org.uk launches this month, enabling children to talk about their favourite books, or follow the Summer Reading Challenge at www.facebook.com/#!/ SummerReadingChallengeUK

Scrumptious new cupcake parlour Deelicious Nazish’s Kitchen is pleased to announce the opening of its first cupcake parlour this June, a minute’s walk from Tooting Bec tube at 12 Tooting Bec Rd, Deelicious serves freshly-baked cakes and cupcakes topped with mouth watering frostings. How about devil’s food chocolate cake with Belgian chocolate frosting, red velvet with cream cheese frosting, or Oreo cupcakes with Oreo frosting? I’ve got my eye on the peanut butter ones! Deelicious also takes orders for wedding, birthday and other occasion cakes. Sounds deelicious. www.deelicious-nk.com

Adventure Island open for business in Balham! Well-loved local Bertie and Boo Theatre company have gone on a new adventure! They have opened an Adventure Island, no less! A great place for the children to dig for ancient treasure, walk the plank in the 'shark infested' soft play area while mum sips coffee or nibbles on freshly made food while baby is happy in the free baby play area. Discover the special theatre at the back where weekly high-energy drama workshops, dance classes, story time sessions are taking place along their unique magical parties (see page 26). 205-207 Balham High Road, SW12 7BQ. Opposite Ducane Court. 020 8772 1562 www.bertieandboo.com

June 2012

Rare goslings born Two rare nene goslings have been born at WWT London Wetland Centre in Barnes. Only 1,750 nenes – pronounced ‘nay-nay’ after their call – survive in the wild in their native Hawaii, and while at one time the nene could be found all over Hawaii, today its range is restricted to the three larger islands. In the 18th century approximately 25,000 of the birds inhabited the Hawaiian islands but the introduction of predators by Europeans, as well as hunting, caused the population to decline rapidly. www.wwt.org/visit-us/london

A scoop of ice cream Try the ice cream at Scoop, a new store in South Kensington. Choose from a variety of different flavours and sprinkle chocolate chips on top of them. Yum! Scoop also offers ice cream for children’s parties either at the store or for delivery (already in single-portion cups with lids and plastic spoons) to the chosen party venue. Scoop, 16 Old Brompton Road, SW7. www.scoopgelato.com

Community spirit Allsorts Drama

Spotlight on community theatre By Helena Foss

There is a whole raft of boards for children to tread across southwest London. Helena pulls back the curtain on local theatre projects that allow children’s confidence and creativity to shine.

Little stars When it comes to the performing arts, southwest London children most certainly have talent. Stagecoach, the original and largest network of part-time performing arts schools in the UK (and, apparently, the world) have branches in Battersea, Fulham, New Malden, Putney and Tooting. Their largest branch, Wimbledon, has 400 students on its books, many of whom make it into commercials, film, TV, West End theatre and pantomime. The franchise currently has a child touring in the musical Oliver, whilst three more have just finished a run of Die Meistersinger at The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. “We’re really lucky to have so many talented kids,” says principal Jennie Graham-Roberts. “Some come bursting with energy and enthusiasm, which needs to be channelled.” But for all the bright sparks, there are just as many shy diamonds in the rough who come to have fun and build up their confidence. According to Jennie, both types seem to bounce off and learn from each other.

Organically grown Sasha Leslie, co-founder of Allsorts Drama for Children (classes in Knightsbridge, Putney, Northcote Road and also north London) was four when she started drama classes and continued until she was so old, she had to be asked to leave. She met her business partner Melissa Healy whilst studying drama at college and the pair have, well, never stopped. Since being commissioned to create a puppet show for a certain young Princess Eugenie’s birthday party, they have spent twenty years devising creative drama experiences for London children and schools. Both mothers themselves, stimulating children’s imagination is what the duo do best. Inspired by the days when lack of digital entertainment meant children dressed up and co-created imaginative story characters and games, they create all their own fresh teaching material. This term the theme is ‘funky fruit fairies’ and ‘pixie island boys’. The term before it was space rockets landing on different planets. They work with an illustrator who designs themed character sheets to help spark children’s ideas and then work towards creating their own performances. “We could have set up franchises,” Melissa adds, “but we do have 15 teachers working for us now and rather like the fact that we are homegrown; a kind of equivalent of a quirky, independent boutique shop.”

Mermaids and pirates At Perform (Battersea, Balham, Clapham, Fulham, Pimlico) this term’s theme is mermaids and pirates, culminating in an end of term show. “We concentrate on the four Cs: concentration, communication, co-ordination and confidence,” says PR manager Hanneke Rauch, an actress whose real passion lies in theatre for social change. Perform run a bursary scheme and focus on the psychology of building children’s confidence. Elise Bowd, an actress who teaches the Balham Perform class remembers a painfully shy, socially phobic six-yearold boy who had never been to a party and barely spoke for the first term, yet reduced his parents to tears when he finally took a lead role. “I have never met such a shy child before,” Elise explains. “At the beginning he was tearful in class and we almost gave up. It took five terms for him to take a leading performance role – but it was an extraordinary transformation. Afterwards his parents told me that he even became something of a show-off at home, putting on performances and doing turns at family gatherings.” London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art graduates Paula O’Donohue and Kristyanne Stanley, founders of Theatrebugs (Barnes, Clapham, Balham, Fulham, Putney, Battersea and Chiswick) are similarly enthusiastic about drawing out the potential in children. “Our number one priority is fun rather than polished performance,” says Paula. “We offer a basic storyline and then the children develop the piece the way they want to. Making the props and invitations themselves as well means the children really own their stage play. Parents are so proud!” Theatrebugs recruit graduates from the Community Theatre degree course at the University of Essex’s prestigious East

15 Acting School to teach their classes, and also created the Every Child a Talker pre-school programme for developing early language skills. All the drama workshop leaders agree that children grow in confidence and develop their social skills. Children from different schools make friends and parents mix too.

Deep roots and diversity Community theatre has deep roots in southwest London. Founded by young Asians in 1977 (during a grassroots groundswell of activism after the racist murder of 17-year-old Sikh boy Gurdip Singh Chaggar in Southall), Tara Arts has been described by the Independent on Sunday as the “most culturally open-minded troupe in Britain.” From their theatre company base in Earlsfield, they produce vibrant adaptations of European and Asian classic plays alongside new work, and tour their cross-cultural theatre in junior schools. Diversity is key at Group 64 too, the 250 strong youth theatre group at Putney Arts Theatre, also home to an adult, high-end amateur theatre company. “Our groups are very mixed,” says Youth Director Nicola Sterry. “Some of the teenagers work as assistant supporters – we pay them a small fee – to our special needs children with Downs Syndrome and autism. With the right support, autistic spectrum children are quite brilliant on stage; they seem to have that special something.” The atmosphere at Group 64 has been described as “chaotic but very sociable.” Indeed, Group 64 parents are often roped in to help with front-of-house duties and as children begin from as young as four right up to 19, the Theatrebugs troupe grow up together.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Community spirit Grown up ideas Described by the Guardian as “a local and national treasure” and also “a children’s theatre with grown up ideas”, Polka Theatre has been working with the Wimbledon and Mitcham community for over 30 years, and has an international reputation for its theatre productions, storytelling, workshops and creative learning for kids from 0 to 13. Polka has been collecting stories from children and young people affected by the riots last August for an original ‘verbatim’ performance called Sticks and Stones, scheduled to be staged at Polka in October and also performed around the country. They have also picked up the Olympic flame with ‘Run! A Sports Day Musical’, (featuring a theme song recording by local community members) that runs for the whole of June. In keeping with the summer sporty theme, Polka will be holding their very own Sports Day on Sunday 24 June, a free community event open to all. As well as working with local children to develop plays (such as ‘Inside Out’ for two to five-yearolds, developed in collaboration with Abbey Children’s Centre and showing this July and August), Polka encourages young families to ‘pop in and play’ at their cafe garden and playground. Little ones will find a dressing up box, colouring corner, reading corner and teddy bear collection to amuse them, whilst parents can chat over coffee and cake. The theatre runs a full children’s workshop programme and encourages parents to get involved with running the premises too.

The London Oratory School Theatre

Lost and found Lost (The London Oratory School Theatre) in Wandsworth was founded in 1979 to be a stepping stone for budding thespians from the ages of five upwards to make the transition into theatre and the performing arts. As such, the company places a big emphasis on mentoring and nurturing new talent and offering low-cost studio space to local community arts groups. They are currently developing a new Autumn programme for under 13s at affordable prices and are eager to welcome the next generation of new talent through their doors.

Group 64 Peter Pan

Further information: Many drama schools and community theatres have bursary schemes and offer free taster classes. • www.stagecoach.co.uk • www.allsortsdrama.com • www.perform.org.uk • www.theatrebugs.co.uk • http://tara-arts.com • www.putneyartstheatre.org.uk • www.polkatheatre.com • www.losttheatre.co.uk Try also: • Putney Arts Theatre, Ravenna Road, Putney SW15 6AW 020 8788 6943. www.putneyartstheatre.org.uk • Chickenshed, a new Theatre Company in Kensington and Chelsea. 020 8351 6161. www.chickenshed.org.uk/ kensingtonandchelsea • Jigsaw Performing Arts. 020 8447 4530. www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

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June 2012

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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June 2012

Playgroups Listing:

Part 4

Here is Part Four of our Playgroup listings. Having scoured all of South West London we’ve found some fantastic playgroups, parent-and-toddler groups and preschool drop-in sessions. Complied by Joanna Parry

The first two parts are in our online Directory, see www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

SW1 Pimlico Library Pimlico Library, Lupus Street, SW1V 3AT Tel 020 7641 1300 Email pimlicolibrary@ westminster.gov.uk Website www.westminster.gov.uk/ libraries/findalibrary/pimlico Open: Wiggle & Jiggle – Monday 1011am, ages 1-2.5; Baby Bounce & Rhyme – Monday 11am-12pm, ages 3-12 months; Rhyme Time – Tuesday 10.30-11.30am, ages 0-5; Just for Dads – first Saturday of each month 10.30-11.30am, under 5s with dads or male carers No fee Victoria Library Victoria Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD Tel 020 7641 1300 Email victorialibrary@westminster. gov.uk Website www.westminster.gov. uk/services/libraries/findalibrary/ victoria Open: Songs, Rhymes and Stories – Wednesday 10.30-11.30am, age under 5; Date with Dad – third Saturday of each month 10.3011.30am, under 5s with dads or male carers No fee

Pimlico Toy Library 133A Lupus Street, SW1V 3EN Tel 020 7834 3356 Website www.westminster.gov. uk/services/youngpeople/childrenfirst Open: Play sessions - Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10am12pm and 1-3pm, ages 0-5; Just for Dad’s - first Saturday of the month, 10.30-11.30am, ages 0-5 Fee yearly membership £12 plus 20p per toy loan Pimlico Playtots Holy Apostles Church Hall, Cumberland St, Pimlico, SW1V 4LY Tel Laura Evans Vogel 07841 428258 Email laura@london-baby.com Website www.holyapostles pimlico.org Open Tuesday 10.15am-12pm, term time only Fee £2 St. James the Less Toddler Group St. James the Less Westminster, Thorndike Street off Moreton Street, SW1V 2PS Tel 0207 630 6282 Email abi.marsh@sjtl.org / churchadmin@sjtl.org Website www.sjtl.org Open Thursday 10–11.30am in the School Room, ages 0-5 Fee £1

Churchill Gardens Children’s Centre Churchill Gardens Primary School, Ranelagh Road, SW1 3EU and Churchill Gardens Youth Club, Churchill Gardens Road, SW1V 3HY Tel 020 7641 5923 / 020 7641 5676 Email childrenscentre @cgprimary. co.uk Website: www.westminster.gov.uk/ services/educationandlearning/childre nsinformationservice/childrenscentre/ south-area-childrens-centres/hubchurchill-gardens-childrens-centre/ Open: Stay and Play – Wednesday 10am-12pm at Churchill Gardens Youth Club; Parent Toddler Drop In – Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 1.30-3pm at Churchill Gardens Primary School; Dad’s Drop In – Thursday 3.30-5.45pm at Churchill Gardens Primary School. Ages 0-5 No fee

SW4 Lark Hall Children’s Centre Smedley Street, SW4 6PH Tel 020 7622 7265 Email cc@larkhall.lambeth.sch.uk Website www.younglambeth.org Open: Creative Stay and Play – Monday 1-3pm, age 0-5, term time only; Baby Stay and Play – Tuesday 1.30-3.30pm, age 0-1, term time only; Stay and Play – Wednesday 9.30-11.30am, age 0-5, term time

only; Active Stay and Play – Friday 9.30-11.30am, age 1-5, term time only; Messy Play – Friday 1-3pm, age 0-5, term time only No fee Agnes Riley Gardens One O’Clock Club Corner of Clarence Avenue and Poynders Road, SW4 8PR Tel 020 8673 1277 Website www.lambeth.gov.uk Open Monday, Thursday and Friday 12.30-3.30pm, all year round, age 0-5 No fee

SW6 Bumps and Babies Cafe Monte, 228 Munster Road, Fulham SW6 6AZ Email Angela parentcoordinator@ nctputneyfulham.org Website www.nct.org.uk/branches/ putney-fulham Meet Tuesday 11am-12.30pm, for mums with babies. Also help with breastfeeding No fee Monthly Coffee Morning Cafe at the Cottage (Fulham Football Club), Stevenage Road, Fulham SW6 Email Angela parentcoordinator@ nctputney fulham.org Website www.nct.org.uk/branches/ putney-fulham Meet First Wednesday of the month, 10am-12pm, for all new mums and dads or parents-to-be No fee

SW9 Vassall Road Pre-school Playgroup 62a Vassall Road, Brixton, SW9 6HY Tel 020 7735 4925 Email joandixon1@hotmail.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 10

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Playgroups listing Website www.younglambeth.org Open Monday-Friday, 9.30am12.30pm, term time only, ages 2-4 Fee £6 per day (the Early Years Grant can be used against this)

SW11 Battersea Park One 0’Clock Club Next to Children’s Playground and Adventure Playground, Sun Gate, Battersea Park, SW11 Tel 020 8871 7530 Website www.batterseapark.org/ html/oneclockclub.html Open Monday-Friday 1-3.30pm Free Battersea Library 265 Lavender Hill, SW11 1JB Tel 020 8871 7466 Email libraries@wandsworth.gov.uk Website www.wandsworth.gov.uk Open: Baby Rhyme Times – Tuesday 11am-12pm; Story Time for Children – Wednesday 4-5pm No fee

SW12 Toddler Group Church of Ascension, Malwood Road, SW12 8EN Tel 020 8675 8626 Jacqui Hance Email Jacqui@ascension balhamhill.org.uk Website www.ascensionbalham hill.org.uk Open Thursday Session 1: 9.1510.45am, Session 2: 11am-12.30pm Fee £2

SW15 Baby Rhyme Time Roehampton Library and Learning Centre, Danebury Avenue, SW15 4HD

June 2012

Tel 020 8871 7091 Email libraries@wandsworth.gov.uk Website www.wandsworth.gov.uk /libraries Open Wednesday 2.30-3.30pm, ages 0-2 No fee Putney New Mum’s Group Tried and True Café, Upper Richmond Road, Putney SW15 Email Angela parentcoordinator@ nctputneyfulham.org, Sophie sophie.bartholomew@gmail.com Website www.nct.org.uk/branches/ putney-fulham Meet Monday 10am-12pm, for mums with young babies No fee

SW16 Babyhouse St Albans Church, Pretoria Road, Streatham, SW16 1RR Tel 020 8769 5415 Email albanschurch@tiscali.co.uk Website www.stalbanschurch.org.uk Open Babyhouse - Monday 9.4511.15am, for mothers and babies; Playhouse – Tuesday 10-11.30am, for carers and toddlers No fee

SW17 All Saints Playgroup Bruce Hall, All Saints Church, 84 Franciscan Road, SW17 8DQ Tel 020 8682 1119 Rachel Manolson Email rmanolson@dsc.net Website http://allsaintstooting. wordpress.com Open Tuesday 9.30-11.30am and Friday 9.30-11.30am, ages 0-5 Fee Babies under 1 year £1, children over 1 £2.50

SW18 Home-start Playgroup Westside Church, Melody Road (off Allfarthing Lane), SW18 2QQ Tel 07770 644452 or 0208 772 1823 Nick and Emma Email heptinstall1@btinternet.com Open Friday 10am-12pm, term time only, ages 0-5 No fee Baby and Crawler group King George's One O'Clock Centre, Buckhold Road, King George's Park, Wandsworth, SW18 4AS Tel 020 8871 1865 Email cpiggott@wandsworth.gov.uk Website http://www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fis Open Friday 10-11.30am, term time only, ages 0-2. They also run a Play and Development Session on Wednesday 10-11.30am, for parents and carers with children with learning difficulties, no age limit No fee Parent and Toddlers St Thomas a Becket Catholic Church, Santos Road, West Hill, SW18 1NT Tel 020 8874 1818 Website www.stthomasabecket church.co.uk Open Monday 10am-12pm in the church hall, term time only Fee £2 for parent with 1 child, £2.50 with 2 children

SW19 Babyccino Club Italiano at Eddie Catz, 42 Station Road, Merton, SW19 2LP Tel Giovanna 07761 420519 or Elisa 07734 316980 Email babyccinoclubitaliano @hotmail.co.uk

Open Thursday 10-11am, term time only, age 0-4 Fee £4.50 for a drop-in session, £3 a session if you sign up for a block Colliwobbles Playgroup Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Road, Colliers Wood, SW19 2NY Email enquiries@christ churchsw19.org.uk Website christchurchsw19.org.uk Open Friday 10-11.30am for babies and pre-school children Fee £1

SW20 Playwell Merton Park Baptist Church, Bushey Road, SW20 8TE Tel 07563 762099 Christine Perry Website www.mertonpark baptist.co.uk Open Tuesday 10am-12pm, term time only Fee £1.50 Boogaloo Kids Raynes Park Sports Ground, Taunton Avenue, Raynes Park, SW20 0BH Tel 07956 468652 Lisa Wyatt Email info@boogaloo kids.co.uk Website www.boogaloo kids.co.uk Open Funtime – Monday 9.30am12pm Fee £3 per child, £2 siblings, £1.50 babies under 1 year

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

Reader survey

How much do you really love us?

) sst!t!) e e n hhoon e e (b(b Many readers have told us Families is the only local publication they read - thank you!

However, we don't want to rest on our laurels. We want to know what you think: what you like, and what you'd like more of - or less of. Please fill in and return our questionnaire to be entered in the draw to win a fabulous prize! It should take no more than 2 minutes to fill in! If you prefer to enter online follow this link www.familiessouthwest.co.uk/survey2012

WIN a family ticket to Camp Bestival!

Camp Bestival is jam-packed with entertainment with Happy Mondays, Kool & The Gang, Chic, the Earth Wind and Fire Experience and comedy headliners Jimmy Carr, Rolf Harris and many more live acts and DJs. Plus for the children there’s Mr Tumble, Dick and Dom, Shrek The Musical, The Gruffalo, Fantastic Mr Fox and 100s of free things for kids to do.

1. How much of each issue do you read? All of it from cover to cover More than half Just the articles which catch my eye 2. Which element is the MOST USEFUL OF ALL (tick max two) Articles List of holiday activities Lists of clubs and classes What‘s On in your area Children’s party venues and entertainers Adverts Local news 3. How often do you contact advertisers you’ve seen in Families? Often Occasionally Never 4. Which advertiser type have you contacted after seeing them in Families? Nursery School Children's activity class Nanny/Au Pair/babysitting agency Health practitioner/therapist Party supplier Parenting course Photographer Private tutor Holiday/family hotel Services (like Cleaners/gardeners etc)

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6. In your opinion, which category of information is the hardest to find online? A really good searchable list of what’s on events in my area Specific parenting articles Children’s activity classes Local nurseries and schools Local plumbers, carpenters etc More news about my area To chat to local mums Book/product/restaurant reviews To sell my unwanted stuff Other............................................................................ 7. Tick any that applies to you I have and use a Facebook account I have and use a Twitter account I own a smart phone, i-pad or plan to buy one soon I have none of above If you use a What’s on app, which one do you like and use? ...................................................................................... ...................................................................................... 8. Which age group are you in? 20 something 30 something 40 something 50 something 60+

WIN a 1hour FREE family photo session and a 10"x 8" framed picture with Kensington IMAGING!

Kensington IMAGING offers innovative family photography and filming services creating beautiful contemporary children and family at affordable prices. As well as running a photography and filming club for 7 to 15 year olds, they also offer birthday parties guaranteeing you lots of fun in front of the cameras.

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Please return your replies by 30th June to PO Box 4302, London SW16 1ZS. Data will be treated in confidence and your details will NOT be passed on to a third party. If you would like to be entered in the prize draw, don’t forget to include your email address. Winners will be notified directly. One entry per family. Editor’s decision is final, no cash alternative. My e-mail......................................................................................................................... My postcode....................................................................................................................

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Fetes and Festivals

Every year, especially during the warm and festive summer time, there features an array of great things to do outdoors – and the cherry on top for some people are FESTIVALS. Even more so if you used to be an avid festival-goer before the kids. Do you remember dirty camping, spontaneity, dancing and partying, sleeping in till noon and overall irresponsibility? Sigh. Well do not fret, there are still ways to enjoy an incredible day out at a festival even if the times have changed for you, and you come with a baby change mat instead of a sleeping bag and beer. However choose your festival wisely to avoid being at the wrong place at the wrong time with grumpy kids and partner. The best way to choose a great family-friendly festival is to look out for a few important features. FREE. A free festival is a smaller commitment and less stress than a fee-paying one. You can come and go as you please, you don’t need to worry about the costs. Free Free Free – it’s so simple but makes such a big difference to your day out.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1

Pictures on this page from the London Green Fair

Our Top 10 Tips for choosing a familyfriendly festival

Stalls selling organic / natural products and food. Organic and natural are relevant to the modern parent. Especially when the event is family geared, you’ll find child-friendly foods and can rest assured it’s on the healthier side.

Activities and workshops for kids of all ages. This is the game changer. Knowing that your kids are having a blast doing arts and crafts, taking dance classes or watching a live performance while you sit back and enjoy the music. Something for dad and something for mum? This means that you are not just going into a baby, goo-goo zone, but are having a great time yourself doing the adult things you enjoy too. A nice chilled beer while watching a band play. Splendid. Creche or child-minding. This would be a luxury for parents – the opportunity to go off and have a dance or walk around while your kids are in safe hands having fun.

London Green Fair 9+10 June, Cumberland Green, REGENTS PARK, Camden, 020 7324 4693, www.londongreenfair.org London's favourite 'all things green' festival is celebrating its 20th birthday. The event reflects the green aspirations and achievements of London as a whole, celebrating, educating and empowering all who take part. Two full festival stages, a permaculture area, dedicated exhibitions areas, campaigning stalls, boutique market stalls, organic bars and global cuisine, and serious environmental education and entertainment. Families are catered for through children's dance classes and theatrical performances, walkabout performers, baby changing and a picnic area with daily performances from an 80-piece symphonic orchestra. Opens midday, admission FREE.

June 2012 ®

Baby changing facilities. We all know what a drag it is trekking around to find somewhere for the kids to go to the toilet. A baby changing area ensures most of the public is going somewhere else, and you and other families have some privacy. How the event is powered. An event powered by natural or renewable energy ensures that you won’t have nasty diesel fumes at a festival. Especially not at a green festival.

Accessibility for pushchairs. Yes, lugging prams up and down stairs or through muddy patches sucks. It’s a turn off before you even get into the event itself. Is there a path handy?

Quiet area, away from loud music and hustle-bustle. A nice chill out area where you can talk to one another is relaxing. At some festivals the loud amplified music, along with moving crowds and lots of energy can be exhausting. Do any of the organisers have children of their own? If yes, then chances are it’ll be more child-friendly as they understand your needs.

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Fetes and Fetivals

1st June is Kite for Schools day

St Michael's C E Primary Centenary Fete

Fly a kite for the Jubilee

Landmark year for St Michael’s

1st June This June, over half of British primary school children will be involved in Jubilee Kite Day. Specialist educational kite organisation, Kites For Schools has seen demand soar for Jubilee kite kits, with hundreds of thousands of children planning to make and fly their kites on Friday 1 June. “Demand for workshop kites has been incredible,” says Karen Gamble, founder of Kites for Schools. “There’s something very special about making your own kite and then to feel the tug on the string as it dances in the sky.” Not just for the Jubilee, schools can order a kite kit guaranteed to fly! Find out more at www.kitesforschools.co.uk

Saturday 16 June 12-4pm 2012 is a landmark year for St Michael’s C E Primary School – it’s the school’s centenary and they are celebrating with a Centenary Fete! Over the past 100 years the school has become not only an educational beacon in the borough (it’s just been awarded the Basic Skills Quality Mark for the 4th consecutive year and is voted an ‘outstanding’ school by Ofsted) but has a fantastic sense of community, summed up annually by the summer fete. It will be an event full of fun, bouncy castles, showcases of music and gymnastics, toy and plant stalls, tombola, BBQ and food stands, so do go and join them on the church field. St Michael’s C E Primary School, Viewfield Road, Southfields, SW18.

On your marks, get set, go for Olympic themed charity fete Saturday 30th June 12-4pm Abbeville Road, Clapham, SW4 Free A real treat for the South West community there will be lots activities on the day including races, pet shows, games, entertainment, stalls, food and drinks and plenty of fabulous raffles and auction prizes to be won such as a long weekend for two in the Caribbean. The Abbeville Fete has been running for 15 years and the residents of Abbeville Road are hoping this year will be the biggest and best yet.

35th Common Fayre @ Holy Trinity Clapham

35th Common Fayre @Holy Trinity Clapham Saturday 16th June from 11am The 35th Common Fayre is the nearest thing to a proper, old-fashioned English village fete, with a BBQ, a steel band, donkey rides, a dog show, sideshows, lots of stalls, a great raffle, silent auction and lots more. It is extremely popular amongst Clapham residents, and attracts several thousand visitors each year. The Fayre is the annual fund raising event for Holy Trinity Church on Clapham Common. Every donation is really valued, as it helps them to raise much needed funds. This year 25% of the proceeds will go to The Trinity Hospice. Their skilled, compassionate end of life care helps their patients, and their families and carers, to regain the confidence they need to live every moment. They care for people in the central and south west London community with many different types of illness.

See pages 35 and 37 for more schools fetes, fairs and local festivals.

Dawmouse Montessori Nursery Schools

Bilingual education since 1996

WWW.DAWMOUSE.COM

The French Nursery School For children from 2 years old to 5 years old. (Toddler group from 1yr) Morning or afternoon sessions available Full time sessions 9h - 15h

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

SW7 Queen's Gate SW1 Knightsbridge Group of international nursery schools All schools have native language teachers, excellent facilities and lovely outside playground / garden.

The Belgravia Nursery School Bilingual Nursery school French/ English. For children 2-5 years. (Toddler group from 1yr) Part time session 9h - 12h Full time session 9h - 15h • 15h35-17h The Spanish Nursery School SW7 and SW1 The Spanish out of school club for children from 2 to 5 years old. Toddler Group from 1 year old

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

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

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

June 2012

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Health

Birth is one of the most stressful events of our lives! By Leah Hearle BSc. (Hons) Ost Med. BMAS.FFA.

It is a common belief that babies and children should have no stresses or strains in their bodies, because they are ‘so young’. The reality is very different. Even in an uncomplicated birth, the baby is subjected to enormous forces as the uterus pushes to expel the baby against the natural resistance of the birth canal. The baby has to turn and twist as it squeezes through the bony pelvis, on its short but highly stimulating and potentially stressful journey. Add to this the failure of the mother’s cervix to dilate, a long labour, or an assisted birth, when either forceps or ventouse are used. It is easy to see why problems may occur.

The baby’s head has the remarkable ability to absorb these stresses.

The most common problems encountered in the first few months involve:

In order to reduce the size of the head, the soft bones overlap, bend and warp as the baby descends. Many babies are born with odd-shaped heads or problems with their neck as a result.

• Impaired suckling

But these stresses may affect your baby In the first few days, the head can usually be seen to gradually lose the extreme moulded shape, as the baby suckles, cries and yawns. However, this unmoulding process is often incomplete, especially if the birth has been difficult. As a result, the baby may have to live with some very uncomfortable stresses within its head and body. Some babies cope extremely well with even quite severe retained moulding and compression, and are contented and happy. For others it is a different story. Osteopaths have some observations about how these retained compressions and stresses might affect the baby.

• Impaired swallowing • Irritability of the stomach and colon

• Frequent spitting up or vomiting • Colic • Sleeplessness/ unsettled

Flat head and neck problems: the Osteopathic treatment With an understanding of normal anatomy and the application of a trained sense of touch, the osteopathic physician can identify and treat the distortions in these affected babies. This can vastly influence the first months of life for both parent and child. Osteopathic treatment involves gentle support of the neuromusculoskeletal system. Very specific, skilled, light pressure is applied where necessary to assist the natural ability of the body to release stresses and tensions in structures of the entire body, from head to toe.

The Putney Clinic of Physical Therapy in Upper Richmond Road offers a range of health care for mum and baby including acupuncture, osteopathy, yoga classes, hypnobirthing baby massage and much more. www.putneyclinic.co.uk 020 8789 3881.

Visit 345 Nursery where “The nursery offers an exceptionally welcoming and inclusive environment” (Ofsted Outstanding Nov 2011). Where children become independent inquisitive and motivated in this rich and vibrant learning environment. Incorporating art, music, yoga, sport, cooking, drama and all aspects of the Early Years Curriculum. Great outdoor space! Options include Afternoon School, Lunch Club and Early Bird Club. www.345nurseryschool.co.uk 020-8870-8441 or dixonannab@aol.com Fitzhugh Grove, Trinity Road, London SW18 3SA

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Parenting

Coping with failure By Melissa Hood of the Parent Practice

It is a certainty that we all experience failure from time to time and therefore need to be able to cope with it. There are (at least) two ways of responding to failure: one is to be beaten down by it and to feel hopeless and discouraged and perhaps give up; the other is to accept that this time things didn’t go so well and determine to keep trying until you do better. Edison found many ways not to invent the light bulb before he discovered the way that worked. “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work…”

How do we respond Parents can to failure? influence matters Perhaps education systems and modern methods of parenting don’t equip our children well for responding to failure positively. Across the world education systems with their interest in standardising and measuring have put much emphasis on tests, results, scores and achievements with the result that sometimes there has been not enough attention paid to the process of learning, creating happy, creative and thoughtful problem solvers. So much attention has been paid to achievements that to fail is no longer an option.

Positive parenting? Parents have praised their children for doing well. The focus remains on results rather than on creative thinking or new tactics tried. This creates a lot of pressure for kids –they know that winning is what counts and it makes it hard for them to fail. This creates a culture of risk adversity in academics, sport and the arts and pits children against each other rather than encouraging collaboration –who dares to fail or even to take another path if it is so important to win and there is a set way to do it?

Author Melissa Hood can be found at www.theparentpractice.com

June 2012

what we pay attention to and how we talk about success and failure. If we pay attention only to achievements children learn resultsbased success is all that counts. When they do not achieve the result hoped for are our children not worthwhile? When your daughter comes home from a netball match don’t let your first question be ‘did you win?’, but ‘Did you enjoy the game? Did you play your best? Were you able to set up some goals? How did the team play together? Giving meaningful and descriptive praise for effort, strategies, attitudes and small improvements, rather than results, to develop a growth mindset in children. “You kept on trying with these sums even though you didn’t find it easy. That’s persevering. Your efforts have paid off – five out of six are correct.” Looking behind children’s behaviour and acknowledging their emotions to help them manage their feelings. Children who develop emotional intelligence are more resilient and pick themselves up again after set backs. Encouraging independence, especially in thinking, to build self trust. Invite and listen to kids’ ideas. “I know we did too much for our youngest son around his A levels because we felt it was so important that he get the grades he needed for the next step in his education. When we do too much of his thinking/planning/ organising he doesn’t do it himself.” Mother of 18 year old.

Modelling how to handle failure well. • When you get something wrong don’t beat yourself up about it but acknowledge the mistake and why it was a mistake. • Take steps to remedy it - make amends. • Articulate what you are learning, show that you are not diminished by your failures but can profit from them. Example: “This morning when we were getting ready for school I yelled at you guys. We were in such a hurry and I didn’t think you were being very helpful. It’s not a good idea for me to yell at you as it doesn’t make you feel good,… or me, and it doesn’t make things go any faster. I’m sorry. I thought about it afterwards when I was calm and realised that it was because we were in a hurry and I didn’t want to be late that I shouted. Tomorrow I am going to make sure we get started earlier and I’m going to see what I can do tonight so that there’s less to do in the morning. Responding encouragingly to their mistakes around school work or music practice or sport as follows: • Find something positive to comment on first. Make sure you’re acknowledging good qualities or behavioural traits such as commitment and creativity. • Then ask them to find something to improve, routinely. It is a difficult task for parents but we need to allow our children to have an unpressured childhood not just for the sake of their present happiness but also to create a future generation of people who can think and are willing to embrace new ideas.

Summer holiday activities Compiled by Joanna Parry Summer holidays? Hooray! we are nearly there.. but help ... how will you occupy them all that time? Fear not: our intrepid Joanna has found the lovely ladies who will entertain your little monsters. Please make sure you say where you saw them, thank you.

ARTS, CRAFTS AND COOKERY Artyard Handmade 318 Upper Richmond Road West, East Sheen, SW14 7JN 16 July–4 September (excluding Bank Holiday). Creative summer workshops – Make, paint and create, 10am-3.30pm, age 5-12, bring a packed lunch and wear old clothes! 020 8878 1336, info@artyard.co.uk. www.artyard.co.uk

Cookie Crumbles 58 Pembroke Road, W8 6NX Summer cookery workshops: Dates: Courses in July and August. Times: 10am12.30 or 25/6pm, some courses are all day. 4-8yrs, 5-12 years, 9-15yrs. Prices: £35-55 Each course is themed: American cupcakes and milkshakes, Olympic Fun in the Sun, Italian, Lasagne, ravioli and biscotti, Afternoon tea, Authentic Chinese food, Sauces, pasta and puddings and more Please note on 9 & 10 August. Teenage Survival Workshop! – A 2-day course teaching 13-17 year olds basic cookery skills. Includes pasta, pastry, biscuits, soup etc. 10.30am-4.30pm, age 13+, £85 per day or £150 for 2 days 020 8876 9912 www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk

Eddie Catz Putney, 68-70 Putney High Street, SW15 24-25 July. Summer Delight Workshop with Cookie Crumbles – 10am-1pm, 4-8 years 25 July. Teddy Bear’s Picnic Cookery – 2-3pm, 2-4 years (with Mummies) 1 August. Mini Football Camp with Team Eddie! – 10am-1pm, 4-6 years 7-8 August. Olympic Cookery Workshop – 10am-1pm, 4-8 years 8 August. Jungle Book Feast Cookery – 2-3pm, 2-4 years (with Mummies) 21-22 August. Dynamic Dance Street Dance 2-Day Workshop – 10am-1pm, 5-10 years 2 September. Ickle Pickles Summer Party on Tooting Common – 11am-5pm Wimbledon, 42 Station Road, SW19 6 August. Mini Olympics – 10am-1pm, 4-8 years 14 August. Make a Bear Workshop – 10am-1pm, 4-8 years 15 August. Mini Football Camp with Team Eddie! – 10am-1pm, 5-8 years 27-28 August. Dynamic Dance Street Dance 2-Day Workshop – 10am-1pm, 5-10 years 0845 201 1268, www.eddiecatz.com

Fun with Fimo Clay West London 5, 12 & 27 July and 3-4 September. Craft activity sessions – Fun and creative session, fully supervised and nonmessy! 10am-4pm, age 6+, £45. Bring a packed lunch and a box to put your creations in. Call Clare McKnight on 020 8992 3767, fimofun@tiscali.co.uk. www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk

Smarty Paints Pottery Studio 85 Nightingale Lane, Balham, SW12 8NX 30 July-3 August and 27-30 August. Olympic-themed workshops – 10.30am-12.30pm, age 6+. A different activity each day including some fun new ones; Decopatch (they'll explain!), T-shirt painting, ceramic painting with glaze and acrylic. £15 per session (including snack). 020 8772 8702, info@smartypaints.co.uk. www.smartypaints.co.uk

MUSIC, DANCE AND DRAMA Fancy Footwork

Artyard Handmade

Belleville Primary School, Belleville Road, SW11 6PR 23-27 July. Sleeping Beauty Summer School – An action-packed week including story-telling, ballet classes, character dancing and art and design, with a show on the final day for friends and family. 9.30am-2pm, age 4-7, £120. Call 0845 094 1774, info@fancyfootwork.co.uk www.fancyfootwork.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Summer holiday activities We are continuously updating and adding to the listings online. www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk/whatson

Perform Barnes, Battersea, Clapham, Fulham, Kensington, Putney and Wimbledon 23 July – 24 August, dates depending on venue. 5-day Wizard of Oz holiday workshops – Take a trip down the Yellow Brick Road to discover the Ruby Slippers, brave the Haunted Forest and explore the strange and colourful world of Oz with Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion. Age 4-8, 5-day courses, dates and times dependent on venue. Call 0845 400 4000, enquiries@perform.org.uk, www.perform.org.uk

Stagecoach Theatre Arts, Wimbledon

4pm, £215 (£195 siblings) 0845 533 3763, info@studiofilmschool.co.uk. www.studiofilmschool.co.uk

SPORTS

Theatre Tribe

All Star Coaching

Streatham & Clapham High School, 42 Abbotswood Road, SW16 1AW 23-27 July. We Will Rock Forever! – Musical theatre experience based on the worldwide hit ‘We Will Rock You.’ Learn from professional actors and rehearse and perform in this production based on the hit show. 10am3.30pm (Days 1-4), 12-7pm (Day 5), age 7-15. Call 020 3239 3149, contactus@theatretribe.co.uk. www.theatretribe.co.uk

Wandsworth Common Tennis Centre, Dorlcote Road, SW18 3RT 9 July–end August. Tennis camps – Tennis coaching for all levels of ability, age 5-7 and 8-14. 020 8871 4706, wandsworthcommontennis@gmail.com. www.allstarcoaching.co.uk

Collyer Hall Theatre, King’s College School, Wimbledon, SW19 4TT 23-27 July and 30 July-3 August. Put On A Show in 5 Days – Rehearse a show in 5 days – act, sing and dance in this memorable and inspiring week. 4-6 years, 9.30am-12.30pm, £135 (siblings £110); 7-16 years, 10am-4pm, £195 (siblings £160). Call 020 8946 3400, wimbledon@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon

Now in their 18th year, Music makers are legendary for their energy, enthusiasm and ability to draw the best out of each new young musician. Day and residential courses for 5 to 18yrs. Wimbledon July 16th to 20th. 01425 654819 www.musicmakers.co.uk

Theatre Tribe

Studio Film School

June 2012

Wimbledon and Bedfont Dates during August TBC. Gymnastics holiday camps – Learn backflips, somersaults, cartwheels, handstands and much, much more! Check website for dates and times. 0208 940 7998, info@backflipperformers.com. www.backflipperformers.com

Barnes Summer Play School

Music makers

Balham 23-27 July. Summer Film School – Direct, shoot, perform, crew and edit your own movie masterpiece in just 5 days, then celebrate with a red carpet film premiere in a real cinema! Age 716, 10am-4pm, £215 (£195 siblings) 23-27 July. Shooting Stars – Young filmmakers explore drama, performance, and camera in workshops blending storytelling, games, improvisation and craft skills. Age 4–7, 10am-4pm, £215 (£195 siblings) 20-24 August. Stage to Screen – Explore acting and performing styles for both stage and screen as you create your own multimedia production fusing filmmaking and live performance. Age 7–16, 10am-

Back Flip Performers

Theatrebugs Balham, Barnes, Battersea, Clapham, Earlsfield, Fulham, Putney and Richmond 23 July-24 August. The Animal Games – Squeaker the Mouse wants to enter the Running Wheel Competition in the upcoming Animal Games but silly William Wolf has other ideas. 5-day workshop of acting, singing, dancing, dressing up and arts and crafts. On Day 5 you hit the stage! Ages 3.5-6, £120, 10% sibling discount. Dates and times vary depending on venue. 0800 975 5290, enquiries@theatrebugs.co.uk. www.theatrebugs.co.uk

Kitson Hall, Kitson Road, Barnes SW13 16 July–17 August. Olympic and Jubilee games – Daily creative projects for ages 3-7yrs including clay modeling, dressing up, mini aerobics and yoga, French, painting, singing, dancing and football. Big Top Adventures for ages 812yrs including drama workshops, museum visits, river trips, football training, Harry Potter studio visit, a trip to Buckingham Palace, Coral Reef, Look out Centre, Woburn safari park and more. NEW: Cutty Sark. 9.30am-3.30pm, (extra time available) Ofsted registered. Very popular, early booking rec. Yvonne 020 8785 3105, bspschool@aol.com www.barnessummerplayschool.org.uk

Fit for Sport Have been providing OFSTED registered children's holiday camps for over 20 years so they know what they are doing! A wide range of fun activities like arts and crafts, different sports and much more. 3-12yrs. 2nd July-31st August. Half days or full days. Barnes, Wimbledon, South Kensington, Sheen or near your holiday place in the UK! 0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk 10% discount when quoting Families!

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Summer holiday activities The Little Gym

Geffrye Museum

Wandsworth and Hampton July-August. Summer Olympic fun – Ofsted-approved 3-hour activity camps for children age 3-12, £35. Check website for dates and times. Call 020 8874 6567 (Wandsworth) or 020 8977 0099 (Hampton), wandsworth_fulham@thelittlegym.co.uk. www.thelittlegym.co.uk

136 Kingsland Road, E2 8EA 4 August. Sunburst Hats and Headdresses – Create a stunning summer hat inspired by Art Deco designs. Age 5-11, 10.30am-12.30pm and 2-4pm 14-17, 21-24 and 28-31 August. Summer holiday activities – Exciting activities exploring home and garden spaces across the globe. Age 5-16, 10.30am12.30pm and 2-4pm. 14-17 and 21-24 August. Nursery Rhyme Time – Explore homes and gardens from around the world through stories, songs and crafts. Age 3-5, 10.30-11.30am and 12-1pm. 020 7739 9893, www.geffrye-museum.org.uk

IDEAS FOR A DAY OUT Morden Hall Park The Little Gym

Ridgway Stables 93 Ridgway, Wimbledon Village, SW19 4SU 17 July–31 August. Holiday courses – 4-day courses riding on Wimbledon Common, plus learning how to care for the ponies, 8-16 years, £120. Call Julia to book 020 8946 7400, ridgwaystables@freeuk.co.uk. www.ridgwaystables.co.uk

Woodfield Grove Tennis Club After school and summer camps for children to adults. 10-1pm and 10-3pm. Free parking, open to non members. 9 Woodfield Grove SW16 1LR Karin 07946 431 514 www.woodfieldgrovetennis.net

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

Morden Hall Road, SM4 5JD 26 July. Meadow Safari – Learn about the plants and animals that call Morden Hall Park their home. 11am-3pm, £4 per family. 2 August. Help the Hedgehogs – Discover more about our prickly friends and how we can help them. 11am-3pm, £4 16 August. Ladybird spotting – Learn about different British ladybirds and follow a trail around the park. 11am-3pm, £4 23 August. Year of the bat – Discover more about bats and their habitats. 11am-3pm, £4 30 August. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Learn about conserving resources and the importance of reducing, re-using and recycling. 11am-3pm, £4 020 8545 6850, mordenhallpark@nationaltrust.org.uk. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park

Painshill Park Painshill, Cobham, Surrey 30 July–3 August, 6-10 August, 13 & 17 August. Explorer Summer Camp – Have a wild time with den building, woodland craft,

campfires, treasure hunts and extreme adventures. Age 8-13, 9am-4.30pm, £35 a day or £150 for 5 days. 14 & 15 July. New France Old England Re-enactment Camp Watch history come alive with the adventures of mid-18th century North America. Visit the tented encampments and talk to soldiers and civilians about their daily lives. 10.30am-5pm 19 August. Birds of Prey Flying Display – From owls and hawks to falcons and eagles, the Henfold Birds of Prey are an amazing sight. 2-4pm 01932 868113, www.painshill.co.uk

ALL-DAY CAMPS Activ Camps •Emanuel School, Battersea Rise, SW11 1HS •Barnes Sports Club, Lonsdale Road, Barnes, SW13 9QL •Wimbledon College, Edge Hill, Wimbledon, SW19 4NS 16 July-31 August depending on venue. Multi-activity Camps Non-stop, fun-filled and action-packed! Age 4-14, from £35 per day. Call 07896 546067, info@activcamps.com. www.activcamps.com

Supercamps 23 July - 24 August, venues include WIMBLEDON, STREATHAM, PUTNEY, CROYDON and SIDCUP, 01235 832222, www.supercamps.co.uk Supercamps have 15 years' experience in running action packed programmes of sports, arts and crafts for 4-14 year-olds. As well as multi activity days, there are RAW Adventure camps for 8-14 yearolds, and 'passion for' courses for 6-16 year-olds focusing on specific interests including stage, dance, food, invention and creativity. The programme is Ofsted registered and all staff are CRB cleared. You can book individual days or full weeks, take advantage of the free extended hours (8am-6pm) and pay with Childcare Vouchers. A Flexi-change option allows parents to change pre-booked dates with seven days' notice. 9.20am-4.30pm each day, single days £38, four days £140, five days £174, sibling discounts and extended hours available.

British Museum Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG 23 June. British Museum Highlights Sleepover – Explore the Museum at night, listen to Egyptian tales and travel to North America! Age 8-15, £32.50 children/adults, from 6.15pm on 23 June until 9am on 24 June 1 September. Shakespeare Sleepover – Listen to tales from the Yarnsmith of Norwich, create costume pieces and direct and star in a Shakespeare play. Age 8-15, £32.50 children/adults, from 6.15pm on 1 September until 9am on 2 September. 020 7323 8605, YoungFriends@thebritishmuseum.ac.uk. www.britishmuseum.org

Ridgway Stables

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Summer holiday activities •Rootcamp – 16/7-22/7 - Set in 200 acres next to Teifi Gorge and the Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve, fforest offers luxury camping accommodation just minutes from the beautiful undiscovered beaches and coves of the west Wales coast. www.rootcamp.co.uk

Painshill Summer camp

Residential Camps •AiGAs various dates Wildlife Holidays & Courses in the Highlands. For over 30 years, Aigas has been offering fully inclusive, small-group learning holidays and study courses exploring the stunning wildlife, habitats and landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Over that time their guided wildlife holidays and educational programmes have earned a global reputation. Their unique facilities, quality of service and knowledge are second to none.01463 782 443 www.aigas.co.uk •ATE superweeks 24/7-24/8 is a not-for-profit Educational Trust, with a Governing Council of leaders in the world of education who believe in the value of summer camps. The Council makes sure that keeping children safe, both physically and emotionally, is ATE’s top priority. Ages 8-16 yrs. 0845 456 1205 www.ate.org.uk •Camp Wild 23/7-17/8 Camp Wild is owned and operated by Escot Ltd at Escot Park, near Ottery St Mary in glorious East Devon and will be running both residential camps for 8-12 yr olds and day camps for 6 and 7 yr olds from July 23rd to August 17th 2012. Children’s accommodation will be based at Yurt Village where they will sleep in bunk beds, cook dinner with friends and enjoy a huge variety of activities which connect children to the natural world. 6-12yrs 01404 822 188 www.escotcampwild.co.uk •Do it 4 Real 22/7 – 26/8 camps provide the ultimate chance for 10 - 19 year olds to experience great activities as you make new friends away from home. Choose from Action Adventure, Go Extreme, Performing Arts or Future Leader and do something this summer that you’ll really want to tell all your mates about… www.doit4real.co.uk •Kick Asthma UK - Asthma UK Holidays 22/7- 28/7 Asthma UK’s week-long Kick Asthma adventure holidays are for children and young people with asthma (and other related conditions). 0800 121 62 55 www.kickasthma.org.uk •Kids Klub - KG Adventure 7/7-18/8 KG Adventure offers the choice of going to camp for a day, a week or even for your whole summer holiday! It is a great opportunity to make new friends, build up your confidence and independence away from home and challenge yourself with their fantastic activities! There is

June 2012

always a mix of activities so whether you are super outdoorsy or prefer to be more creative there will be something for you. 01449 742 700 www.kgadventure.com

•Wickedly Wonderful 2/7-30/8 Mon-Fri. Wickedly Wonderful, the holiday company for children 6-13yrs, runs small residential summer camps. Children spend the week (in tents!) having oodles of fun; they sail, horse ride, kayak, enjoy games on the beach, roast marshmallows around the beach campfire, swim, surf, play golf, go crabbing and ride bikes. They make new friends, enjoy the great outdoors and learn lots of new activities. It’s a completely unforgettable holiday experience! 0794 123 1168 www.wickedlywonderful.com

•Marlborough College 22/7-11/8 Wiltshire SN8 1PA Marlborough College Summer School continues to welcome young people to their action-packed week of activities and entertainment. Catering for both day and accompanied residential, the young peoples’ programme will focus on flexibility and choice. The extensive range of courses on offer makes full use of the magnificent campus boasting excellent indoor and outdoor facilities. 01672 892388 www.mcsummer school.org.uk •Mill on the Brue – Somerset 15/7-25/8 Taking a maximum of 60 kids per week they create the ideal home from home environment. The centre boasts a beautiful riverside location and over 40 exciting activities within its 20 acre estate. At least 6 activities per day – from high ropes, overnight camping expedition, 300m zip wire to raft building. Ages 8 – 15. 01749 812307 www.millon thebrue.co.uk •PGL Adventure Holidays 30/6-28/9 With more than 50 years-experience pioneering children’s adventure and activity holidays, PGL Travel is the UK’s leading operator in adventure holidays for unaccompanied 7 to 16 year olds. A PGL holiday can help children discover that first taste of independence, build self-confidence and make friends through a broad range of exciting activities. Their Adventure Holidays are available for 3, 4 or 7 nights, as well as Adventure Days from £14 0844 371 2424 www.pgl.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Perform Drama

Birthday traditions12 ways to create magical moments Inexpensive and clever ways to make the most of a child’s birthday by creating some fun traditions to make a child’s birthday a special day to remember… By Elisabeth Dolton

Think of your child’s birthday and what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Already? What are we going to do this year? Whatever you think, instead of racking your brains thinking for the latest party ideas, what about actually doing some things the same as you did last year? Build simple birthday traditions that you all know about, look forward to, and that create memories that last a lifetime. This is the stuff of magic moments!

Special

We have collected 12 fabulous traditions that can make your children’s birthdays special every year. settee every year put them in a scrapbook that 1. Big-Day countdown Make the approach to their birthday important. Hang a garland of seven envelopes, each with a small daily goodie, leading up to the grand finale.

2. Decorate and titivate The night before your child’s birthday sneak into their room and decorate it with a special sign wishing them a Happy Birthday. Blow up balloons and put birthday wishes all over the house. Make a birthday cake instead of buying one. Your child will appreciate even a simple cake made from a mix. Get your child to pick out what they want their birthday cake to look like, a rocket, princess castle, favourite animal, etc.

4. Have a special meal Have breakfast in bed awakened by the whole family singing happy birthday. Create a beautiful tea party to enjoy the finger sandwiches and tea. Let the birthday child pick the dinner menu however crazy their wishes.

5. Have a ‘birthday’ plate Have a special plate that each child uses for meals on their birthday. The same could be done for a birthday eggcup, a special seat at the table, or hat they have to wear all day.

6. Opening presents Hide presents around the house and provide clues to help your child find them. Follow a ribbon to their first gift, or unroll string all around the house that take them to their presents.

7. Celebrate them growing up Create a photo banner of your child’s annual photographs. Take a family photo on the same

June 2012

you add to every year. Ask them their favourite colour, ice-cream, hobby, etc., note them down and do this on every birthday.

8. Capture the moment Get out the camcorder and interview your child about the special things they have done that year, include props like their awardwinning science project that year, their sports trophies, the self-portrait they did of themselves, etc.

9. Special family events

3. Bake a cake

Party

Do the same walk every year, have dinner at the same place, go sledging, have a picnic on the beach. Do activities that are typical of what you are like as a family, e.g. if you are a musical family, hold a concert, if you are outdoorsy plan a boat trip.

10. Annual additions Plant a tree or flowers that bloom annually around your child's birthday. Ask grandparents to add to a charm bracelet or commemorative coin collection each year.

11. Tell a tale Let the birthday child stay up a little later after the other children have gone to bed and tell them about the day they were born, and how you felt when they arrived.

12. Remind them of how special they are A simple way is give each member of the family a birthday candle, then pass around a small dessert. Each person puts in their candle and tells the birthday girl/boy something they love about them. They pass the dessert to the next person, who does the same until everyone has added their candle, light the candles and sing Happy Birthday.

5 ways to make sure birthdays remain special for special children Since traditions are often visual and repeated, most children with special needs will really appreciate and learn to love these birthday traditions. To help ensure their special day, here are a few extra watchouts...

Watch what they eat It’s easy to let slip strict dietary requirements during a day of celebration. For children with allergies and even vegetarian, let your party host know in advance and make appropriate plans.

Avoid overload Don’t overwhelm with too many guests, lights, games, candles, music and presents. Decorate simply, put on a relaxing CD, and provide a quiet place where the child can go if s/he wants to.

Prepare them Let your special needs child know in advance what to expect. Explain the plan of the day. Let them sit where they are comfortable and if out provide them with an exit strategy. Give your child a signal they can use with you if they need to leave a place or situation.

Keep the day low key Treat the birthday as just another day, an important day, but not one that’s too busy. Let your special needs child, and all your children, plan the day so that it’s kept special and unique.

Party Special Bertie and Boo

Book a party at home or in the Adventure Island of 50 minutes of interactive magic show

8 ideas for low cost going home gifts Great parties don't have to end with expensive loot bags. Here’s 8 simple ways to end the party in style without stretching the budget. 1. Brown paper bags with the child's name in big writing and decorated with stickers are very effective. 2. Bake cookies or other treats and package them in cellophane tied with ribbon. 3. Let the birthday person create their own toys using clay, paint, beads and buttons. 4. Get cardboard picture frames and slip in a note about where the party pictures have been uploaded online. 5. Do something arty during the party and let the guests take their handiwork home - cheap plates or bowls can be decorated with ceramic paint, a strip of wood decorated with their initial, etc. 6. To last a little longer, give seeds to plant in the garden or a cookie cutter that's related to the party theme. 7. Buy enough bouncy balls for each guest, scatter them about your lawn or home before the party. The balls are a great decoration and each guest gets to take one home. 8. Print off free colouring sheets of favourite characters from the internet, and burn a CD of the birthday person’s favourite songs.

Compiled by and thanks to Amanda Butterworth

Rugbytots

ACTIVE PARTIES Imaginative interactive storytelling parties. Choose from mermaids, funky witches and wizards, fairies or princesses, pirates, knights or cowboys, spies or drama parties. Clowns, magicians, jugglers, circus skills experts, face painters, make-up artists and DJs also available. 0870 770 2705 www.theactionstation.co.uk

Is the first UK rugby-specific play programme for children between 2 -5 years. Rugbytots combines the multiple skills used in rugby, and other sports, with a fun, enthusiastic and energetic programme designed to enhance your child's social and physical skills. Classes throughout SW London. They also do birthday parties! Lorna Belchambers on 0845 481 6444, lorna@rugbytots.co.uk website www.rugbytots.co.uk

Amanda’s Action kids

Ruggerbeez

An Amanda's Action Club party makes any young child's birthday an unforgettable and magical event. With over 20 years’ experience (including throwing parties for celebrities such as the Beckham's and Katie Price) they are London's premiere party-providers for children aged 1-11. www.amandasactionclub.co.uk or call Mel on 01895 623999.

The creators of Ruggerbeez now bring you a choice of 10 sports to celebrate your big day. What do you wannabee? You can be a Tennisbee, Cricketbee & Ruggerbee all in one day? 'Wannabeez' birthdays are available throughout the year. Visit www.wannabeez.com and tell them what sort of birthday buzz you want!

The Action Station

Backflip Performers They have Children’s Birthday Parties with a Gymnastic Twist for ages 2–12: Little Flippers parties come complete with colourful mats, soft equipment and great party tunes (children aged 2-4 years); Flippers and BackFlippers Parties – 4–12 years old. Plus Katie Cannon’s BackFlip Performers bring dancing, funky games and fantastic upside-down gymnastic skills to your child’s birthday party. info@backflipperformers.com or 020 8940 7998

Brixton Climbing Centre This 8 metre high wall is a good venue for beginners and those with little climbing experience. Call: 020 7926 9779 / 0845 363 1144 Brixton Recreation Centre, 27 Brixton Station Road, Brixton, SW9 8QQ

Eddie Catz Eddie Catz Putney www.eddicatz.com - Tel. 0845 2011268 Awesome parties at affordable prices - private party rooms, invitations & thank-you’s, fun play sessions, food, drinks and party bags all included. You can add on as much as budget permits – balloons, themed parties, face painting, mini discos and personalised cakes. Adult food platters are served with wine, beer & champagne. NEW! Make a Bear parties where you can choose, stuff and fluff your very own furry friend! Eddie Catz Wimbledon www.eddicatz.com - Tel. 0845 2011268 All the great parties you get at their Putney branch PLUS evening Laser Tag parties for 6-12 year old with exclusive use of the venue, disco lights, glow sticks, music and food and Make a Bear parties where you can choose, stuff and fluff your very own furry friend!

Little Gym Have a fantastic Birthday Party at The Little Gym of Wandsworth & Fulham - Kids love them and so do Mum & Dad. Their parties are full of music, games, activities and laughter. Their parties are for all ages and are led by their trained staff in the bright and colourful centre. Please contact 020 8874 6567 wandsworth_fuham@thelittlegym.co.uk

Urban Ascent, brand new rock climbing centre in Parsons Green Be the first to try out south-west London's most exciting birthday party activity - rock climbing! Urban Ascent is a brand new, state of the art rock climbing centre in Parsons Green. They hold parties for children aged 5+ in groups of up to 16. They also have a balcony overlooking the climbing area which can be used after the party to share out some well-deserved cake! 020 7751 0913 info@urbanascent.co.uk www.urbanascent.co.uk

ARTS & CRAFTS, COOKING AND SCIENCE PARTIES Cookie Crumbles Children from 4 -15 have enormous fun cooking their own meal in home cooking parties, helped by Cordon Bleu chefs - who clean up afterwards too. Cookie Crumbles also offer unique dinner and cocktail parties for teenagers, as well as hugely popular chocolate parties. Prices start at £165 for a 2 hour action-packed party of six (min) including all ingredients and equipment. The Cookie Crumble team can provide tableware, invitations, chef’s hats, aprons and exclusive party bags for an extra charge. 020 8876 9912 www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk info@cookiecrumbles.co.uk

Deelicious Nazish's Kitchen Deelicious Nazish’s Kitchen is pleased to announce the opening of its first cupcakes and cakes parlour on June 1,

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

2012. Located on 12 Tooting Bec Road at a minute’s walk from the tube station, the outlet will be serving cupcakes and freshly baked layered cakes on the premises in a variety of flavours and topped with mouth watering frostings. You can also place an order for a stunning birthday cake or the wedding cake of your dreams. 020 8767 4743 or 07950 836585 info@deelicious-nk.com www.deelicious-nk.com

Party Special

Mother Nature Science Every Mother Nature Science Party is Cooler than Cool but all are perfect entertainment for all children aged 4-12 and can be presented outdoors, at your home, or wherever you may choose to hold a party for your child. Each party features an impressive array of spectacular demonstrations, interactive activities and children leave Mother Nature Science Party with fun and educational take-home experiments. They will take the kids off your hands for an hour or more and their breathtaking demonstrations and hands-on science will ensure your child and pre-teens friends have an unforgettable party and go crazy for Science. 0845 834 0986 richmond@mnature.co.uk www.mnature.co.uk

Smarty Paints Creative fun Pottery Painting parties (age 5 & up) & NEW take home on the day options in Decopatch, T-shirt painting & Acrylic on Pottery (all age 7 & up). Full explanation given then creativity flows & they clear up! Parties up to 2 hours & prices from £12 per painter. Max 30 painters. Each birthday party booked gets a personalised complimentary birthday plate from them! 020 8772 8702 or www.smartypaints.co.uk

Dramabuds Dramabuds adventure parties... They will transport your party to the land of make believe and captivate imaginations and ensure your child's party is a truly magical experience that you'll cherish forever. Themes include Jungle adventure, fairytale land, pirates, Dinosaurs and much more. For 2- 7 year olds 020 8669 2355 info@dramabuds.co.uk www.dramabuds.co.uk

Freedom Productions Themed Children’s Parties with a difference. Freedom Partyz are dedicated to creating healthy, alternative and dynamic themed parties. They believe children are the key for the future. Their workshops and parties aim to incorporate a healthy aspect to learning to play for the idea of play’s sake. They focus on the creative imagination and movement exploration through light, joyful, fun and theatrical techniques. Call Samantha at Freedom Productions on 07824 562724 www.freedomproductions.org

Perform

Dramabuds

DRAMA Act Drama Act Drama Birthday Parties (all age groups from 5-15yrs old) are jam packed with drama games, stories, adventures, treasure hunts and riddles! Drama Parties are led by professional actors. Choose from An Amazing Adventure Party, A crazy Improvisation Party or a Perform a Play Party! Act Parties free your imagination and help children to express their creativity. Act builds confidence and self-esteem. It’s the most fun you’ll have at a party this year!! 07976 873161 jane@actdrama.fsnet.co.uk www.actdrama.co.uk

June 2012

Stagecoach Battersea

Theatrebugs

Perform Parties are high energy, fun and totally infectious 1-3 year olds: Mini Ps Parties are ideal for babies and toddlers and involve Mums and Dads too with catchy songs, fun games and colourful props based around a simple theme 4-8 year olds: Perform Party Leaders arrive in costume as the character of the chosen theme whether that's a mermaid, pirate, superhero, cheerleader or popstar. With thrilling music and imaginative storytelling, they'll take your child on an exhilarating journey. 8-12 year olds: Perform Plus Parties are facilitated by inspiring theatre professionals combining songs, dances and scenes into a short presentation for family and friends. 0845 400 1278 enquiries@perform.org.uk

Theatrebugs Theatrebugs Adventure Drama Parties for 2-8 years. A Theatrebugs party is an interactive fun filled journey crammed with tasks to be completed, characters to become and different worlds to explore. It is jam packed with storytelling, imaginative play, drama games and good old fashioned fun! “The perfect solution for a party to remember!” Janet, Rosie’s mum, Barnes Prices start from £119! party bags available! 0800 975 5290 enquiries@theatrebugs.co.uk www.theatrebugs.co.uk

Stagecoach Stagecoach Battersea - fun-filled classes in street dance, drama, singing and musical theatre on Saturdays and Sundays during term-time! Put on a show in 4 days from 23 - 26 July! They even organise dance & drama parties! www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea Contact Micky on 020 8946 2986 Stagecoach Fulham - Join a Stagecoach workshop and sing your favourite songs from West End and Broadway musicals. Dance your favourite dances from Classical to Street Dance, and perform a creative piece devised by you. The workshop culminates in a performance on the final day. Call 0845 202 572 www.stagecoach.co.uk/fulham Stagecoach Putney is opening a Friday Afternoon school from September 2012. Join them for 3 jam packed hours of drama, dance and singing for 6-18 years (90 minutes for 4-6yrs). Call Tina on 0845 265 7050 page 26 www.stagecoach.co.uk/putney

Party

Special upplies e party s Onlin

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

BALLOONS! BALLOONS!

For all your party balloon requirements: Contact Jane – the balloon lady!

Tel: 020 8672 6421 Mobile: 07885 401277 www.jagballoons.com

Jojo’s Travelling Minstrels

ENTERTAINERS Adam Ants Adam Ants and his team have several years of experience in entertaining children. They offer terrific shows for the kids from 1 year olds - 10 year olds with Magic, Balloon Modeling, Puppets, Music, Dancing, Singing, Disco Parties, Sports Parties, Be My Bear Teddy Parties, Art Parties. We offer Face Painters, Tables and Chair hire and lots, lots more. www.adamantsparties.co.uk info@adamantsparties.co.uk or call: 020 8959 1045

Bertie and Boo Did you know Bertie and Boo come from a truly magical family? They are the third generation of magicians in a glorious family tradition. Book a party at home or in the new Adventure Island of 50 minutes of interactive magic show, a visit by the Elf or a pirate and princess party. You can also secure the whole island for yourself! Price includes a magic show and food. Balham 020 8772 1562 ww.bertieandboo.com

With their exciting BBC TV appearance as Leading Children’s Entertainers and having entertained over 50,000 children to date, JoJo’s Travelling Minstrels pride themselves on their ability to bring a WHOLE LOTTA FUN to any party or event. With an expansive range of ‘funtabulous’ entertainment offering BALLOONMODELLING, FACE-PAINTING, PUPPETS, MAGIC, CIRCUS SKILLS, JUGGLING, STILTS & MORE… they will engage all children from 0 – 100+ years! JoJo’s also provide excellent quality PARTY BAGS for any occasion. Call 07743 196691 or visit www.jojofun.co.uk

Lydie Is a bilingual French and English entertainer who will transform your house or choice of venue into a minitheatre with her extraordinary props, creating a magical space where the children play an active role in the unfolding dramas. Choose from Aladdin, Batman, Robin Hood, Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Pocahontas, Lion King, Peter Pan and many more. Recommended by Time Out, Tatler and Vogue. 020 7662 2540. www.lydieparties.com

Mrs Marvel

Mrs Marvel’s magical and creative funfilled parties are all about your child. What do they love the most? What are their favourite things? Where does their Recommended by the Evening imagination take them? What do they find Standard. Lots of laughter, really interesting? fun and games, mini disco, They have been enthralling children with Boo Boo balloon modelling, silly their wonderful stories, magical carpet Spanner and lanterns juggling, magic tricks and rides and arts & crafts sessions for many puppet show! years. And they’ve never failed to bring mr-booboo.co.uk 07961 355269. them all back tired and inspired just in time for tea. CRB checked, qualified and experienced performers and Charlie the Clown they hold public liability insurance. For a creative, fun Charlie entertains children of all ages and offers a variety filled and magical party call Mrs Marvel on 07932 070773 of entertainment - clown and magic shows, singing, www.marvellousparties.com dancing, games, balloon modelling, story-telling and Mr Squash puppets. Charlie also performs as Captain Bluster the Pirate, Egbert the Explorer and Spark the Spaceman. Has been entertaining for 15 years in London. Fun Children are kept busy, happy and entertained throughout Puppetry with magic, bubbles and balloons. Very popular the party! www.charlietheclown.co.uk 07808 732390 with younger age groups 2-7’s. His new shows include Pirates and Mermaids, Princess and the Unicorn. Also Diane’s Puppets runs story-time sessions with books, rhymes, bubbles, If you are looking for something completely different and puppets and craft activities. www.mr-squash.co.uk or unique for your child's party, look no further than Diane's 07939 252241. (Available weekends and anytime during Puppets. school holiday) With her handmade, adorable puppets, gentle, silly, Parties To Remember surreal comedy and fabulous fast face-painting, Diane will captivate the young and turn your jaded big boys and girls Rowena’s company grew from when she organised her into giggle monsters. Established 1993. 020 7820 9466. own child’s parties. That was 11 years ago and Rowena www.dianes-puppets.co.uk has never tired of hearing the children laugh while www.facebook.com/DianesPuppets hunting, singing and playing team games during that time. It’s a party, there needs to be laughter, a little shouting, running, a few slightly scary games and a couple of quiet games. The mixture means the children never get bored.

Boo Boo the Children’s Entertainer

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Rowena arranges a consultation before the party and provides all the prizes including a material party bag. Read her blog for more insight to her ethos.020 7249 3242; www.partiestoremember.co.uk for competitions and offers.

Potters Parties Full of fun and marvellous magic. Eliza can come as any character, from Hermione's distant cousin the witch, a fairy princess to a basic clown. Face painting, magic, balloon modelling, parachute, bubble machine, disco dancing, and interactive story telling. Make your child feel special and have a party to remember. “Jake had a great party. Thank you so much. He absolutely loved the show and is still laughing about the funny Pirate Eliza." Jake's mother. elizadoalot@hotmail.com 07779 271655. www.pottersparties.co.uk

Silly Millie The clown is a funky clown that kids love to hang out with. She sings, does magic and is very silly. If you would like her to come to your child’s party call 0207 823 8329 or 07939 239397. www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk .............................................................................................

The Amazing Willy Wonthe is back! Many years of party experience. Professional Police Checked. No hard sell. No agency fees. 020 8698 4458 www.facebook.com/WillyWonthe .............................................................................................

The Flying Storyteller is… ....A different way of telling stories, capturing a child's imagination from the first 'Once Upon A Time' to...'Happily Ever After'. Stories from around the world, old ones, new ones and poetry too. Call them for a door into another world for your child's party. 07956 661891

Theo the Magician Theo The Magician is a Magic Circle and Award Winning Surrey Magician. His most popular Children’s Party is his Two Hour Party Show for 4-7 year olds, which involves Magic, Games and Plate Spinning. Not forgetting his Harry Potter Shows with Quidditch Games. For 8’s and above his Infamous Magic Workshops teaching Card Tricks, Balloon Modelling and Plate Spinning always go down a treat. 07711 724129. www.magictheo.com. Facebook “Theo The Magician”

shows, games, dancing and storytelling. His lolly pop prizes go down a treat! His Macaroni junior disco with flashing lights and drama parties brings out the X factor in the older child. 020 8442 0122

PAMPERING AND FACEPAINTING ButterflyCats

Party

Special

ButterflyCats is proud to offer parents the highest standard of face painting at affordable prices for children age 3-16. Butterfly Cats is also part of CandyCats4u.com offering older children and young adults professional makeovers for special occasions. Last minute bookings welcome. Covering London and surrounding areas. www.butterflycats.com facepainting@butterflycats.com Call David Paul or ButterflyCats.com 0742 263436

Miss Dee Faced Is a professionally trained children’s face painter and entertainer. She can bring any party to life if requested by organising party games, and balloon modelling. She can come to the party as Miss Dee Faced or your child's favourite character. She is based near Victoria and is happy to travel within London. Laura 0742 517 6126

Magical Designs Magical Designs has an excellent reputation providing face painting and balloon modeling for 9 years throughout London and surrounding areas. For a memorable occasion whether a small family party or a large corporate event, please contact Susie on 0781 492 5462. For testimonials and further information, visit www. Magicaldesigns.co.uk.

Wendy Stone Writer, artist, storyteller and face painter, for parties at home or at different venues. Imaginative, arresting and fun - catch some of her recent work at The London Wetlands Centre and currently will be working at Tate Modern. www.wendystonestoryteller.co.uk or 020 8870 8243. wendystone@madasafish.com

Tony Macaroni Tony Macaroni is a fun and energetic entertainer for 3 to 11 year olds. He engages the minds of children with his magic and puppet

June 2012

Theo the Magician - maths to magic

Party

Special Charlie the clown ‘Egbert the explorer’

MUSIC AND DANCE Blueberry Playsongs Parties Blueberry parties are lively, interactive musical parties for 0 - 5 years. One of their talented entertainers will play guitar and sing songs with joining in, actions, jumping games, dancing and instruments. Perfect for little ones! A 45-minute session in London is £105. Call to check availability on 020 8677 6871 info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

Caterpillar Music They will bring magic, music and songs to entertain everyone in one hour of music, instruments and puppets for every child to use during the session, a fun pass the parcel game and a surprise present for the birthday child! A great combination of simple birthday party games, action songs, instruments and amazing puppets provide a special party where young children can join in as much as they want to... 020 8286 3754. www.caterpillarmusic.com

Funky Moves Bringing out the fun in funky! They offer a range of fantastic parties for kids aged 5-16. From Mamma Mia to Hip Hop, they can do it! The parties are fun, friendly and structured. Their team are all professional dancers, who are working in music videos and dance productions here in the UK and across the world! Come and join in the fun! 07810 431 101 www.funkymovesdance.com info@funkymovesdance.com

The Disco Divaas Tailored dazzling discos, dance tuition, games, magic....and lots more! For girls & boys from tots - teens. 07778 122 277 www.thediscodivas.co.uk

Musical Express Musical experience and education for underfives, tailor made, interactive and altogether fun activities in Wimbledon Park, Earlsfield and Wimbledon. Engaging pre-school children in active music making whilst building self-esteem and confidence. They have been nominated for a What’s on for Kids award, voted by their customers – visit their new fun website to find out more – www.musicalexpress.co.uk

Rockstars Rockstars specialise in giving you a party to remember. They run one and two hour parties for children and adults as well as studio experiences for those who play their own instruments. Rockstars parties are an ideal way to celebrate your birthday if you love music and love singing. 020 8767 1125 or 07932 873030. www.rockstarsparties.co.uk

Tin Pan Annie Tin Pan Annie Music are the experts in fun, musical party entertainment for children aged 1- 5 years old, including bags of songs accompanied on guitar, stories, wacky props and puppets, percussion instruments and bubbles. Meet your entertainer first by coming to a FREE TRIAL at one of their music classes. www.tinpanannie.co.uk 020 8670 0644

Upbeat Pop and Rock Parties Choose your favourite track and record it onto CD. Put together a dance routine to the latest tunes and perform with your friends. Form a band with electric guitars and drums and lay down your first single. OR choose a combination of the above! For the most exciting and unique bespoke party, contact them at UPBEAT. 07816 901 396 upbeatmusic@btinternet.com www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk

PARTY PLANNERS Boo! Want MORE than just a Bouncy castle? Boo! are launching SuperBounce – a great value party solution. Their lovely, fun, inflatable games are accompanied by a friendly host who runs party games, supervises equipment and makes sure your child has an absolutely fabulous time! Check out Softplay World for under 4’s. Call Boo on 020 8542 1480

Babble Parade Children’s Parties Bursting with Character. Fantastical parties jam packed with storytelling, magic, puppets, song, music and dancing, games, balloon modelling, facepainting and much more! Spectacular range of themed characters to choose from “Both children and parents were mesmerized!” Stephanie www.babbleparade.com info@babbleparade.com 07794 084671

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

June 2012

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Party

VENUES AND SUPPLIERS

Special

Baden-Powell House Located in the heart of South Kensington, Baden-Powell House is the perfect choice for your child’s party or your next barbeque! With flexible spaces for up to 300, friendly staff and an amazing selection of food on offer, their centre is second to none when it comes to parties for kids and grown-ups. 65-67 Queens Gate, South Kensington, SW7 5JS. 020 7590 6909 bph.conferences@scout.org.uk

Hopscotch Dressing-up Feed your child’s imagination and solve those “where do I find the right outfit worries” with something from Wandsworth based Hopscotch dressing-up clothes. Versatile, comfortable and seriously cool, they're all made in the UK with careful attention to detail. From guardsmen to nurses, they’ve got wonderful outfits everyone will love. www.hopscotchdressingup.co.uk with secure ordering. Find them on Amazon.co.uk, Facebook and @Hopscotch28 on Twitter.

Jo Jo’s travelling Minstrels

Jag Balloons Known locally as the “Balloon Lady” Jane runs a party balloon business from her home in Tooting. She supplies balloons for a variety of events such as children’s and adult’s birthday parties, corporate dinners, product launches, christenings and weddings. Spiralled pirate balloon arches, foil butterflies and flowers, balloon drops, balloon releases, balloon cascades, neon balloons to brighten up a dull church hall, “I love you” balloons for mummy, balloons for your granddad’s 70th or balloons for that special 1st birthday. The options are endless! www.jagballoons.com. 07885 401277 or 020 8672 6421.

Pantaloons Pantaloons Fancy Dress and Balloons are celebrating their 10th year!!! They have recently added balloon decorating to their portfolio so if in need of some fancy balloons, a costume for a school play or a party then pop into the very friendly shop in Pimlico (by Chelsea Bridge) for Adults and Children’s Costumes for hire and to buy. 020 7630 8330 or mobile: 07501 221903 fancydress@pantaloons.co.uk www.pantaloons.co.uk

Pappa Ciccia A totally stress free Party! Dear Pappa Ciccia team, As promised our feedback, “We just wanted to thank you for the fantastic Pizza making party. Sofia and her friends had a brilliant time and are still talking about it. I have to say that it was the most stress free birthday party I have ever had. My husband and I were well looked after with a glass of vino and olives while your staff took care of everything. I will highly recommend this type of party as it’s both fun and educational. We will see you all again soon.” Mrs Harty 020 7731 5890 or 07956 970258

www.charlietheclown.co.uk

07808 732 390 clown pirate story-teller wizard

Looking for a venue? We have compiled a comprehensive listing of local party venues: from local halls to hire, scout huts, museums with a party room, local restaurants, council-run party rooms and community centres. To view the list go to www.FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk Pantaloons

Ly d i e C h i l d r e n ’ s Pa r t i e s 0207 622 2540

The Unique Birthday Experience The theatre of Peter Pan, Superheroes, Fairies,Arabian Nights and more... In your home! Unforgettable Bilingual English/French www.lydieparties.com

babbleparade.com

Hugely popular

BESPOKE PARTIES:

Fairies, Pirates, Spies, Circus, You name it! Jam packed with fun activities!

07794 084671

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

Party

Special Parties to Remember

Party Plus Have a retail shop in Chiswick, West London and also a mail order company www.partyplus.co.uk. They are proud that they have one of the largest selections of themed partyware available from stock – Peppa Pig, Clone Wars, Doctor Who, High School Musical, Pirate, Princesses and many more. Holy Communion barriers and foil balloons are currently available from stock. 020 8994 1674.

Party Magic Box Every parent wants their child’s birthday to be perfect. However party planning can be time consuming and it’s usually a struggle to find what you want in the local shops. With over20 years in the industry, Party Magic Box is the first stop for your perfect party supplies. The Magic Box’s party themes themes vary as much as children’s tastes. From the classic fairytale princess and seasonal and popular characters, such as the Gruffalo and Toy Story, they try to keep their stock fresh and run away from the mundane. www.partymagicbox.co.uk.

LEISURE CENTRES Balham Fun for under 5s. A wide range of parties: Tumble time, bouncy castle and traditional party games. Pool Party includes invitations, music, party organisers and party coach. All you need is to bring the food and the children! 020 8772 9577. (Max. 20 children)

Cannon Mitcham. Under 5’s Toddlers World Party with bouncy castle, slides and ball park. Under 8’s can enjoy Wet’n’Wild swimming parties in the teaching pool or Kool Krew parties with bouncy castle and party games. Football parties provided for any age. Max 20 children. Weekends only. Call 020 8640 8543.

Latchmere Battersea. Parties all week. Bouncy castle and traditional party game. Football, Street dance, Big splash, Trampoline, Disco Bounce, Tumble Time, Wet and Wild, Playzone, Super bounce party, Multisports. 020 7207 8004.

Book at The Exhibit for a private cinema party! The Exhibit in Balham is a great location for parties. The most popular is the boutique cinema, holding for up to 24 (yes, you can bring your own film) with the party room on the same floor. Parties start at £75 per hour for up to 30 kids, they also run special weekday discounts. We have only heard positive comments about it: the staff are friendly, considerate and it is very well run. They have a Kid’s Club during the school holidays where the children watch a film, get lunch and have a dance class with Funky Moves for just £15 each. IIt is child friendly in the daytime, so it is ideal for hosting family gatherings such as First Birthdays or Christenings. Try their new American Diner that serves brunch every Saturday and Sunday until 3pm, and watch a film afterwards! Mother and baby cinema sessions on Friday afternoons. Tickets £5 under 2s go free. Conveniently located in Balham, by Sainsbury's car park. Contact exhibit@exhibitbars.com 020 8772 6556 www.theexhibit.co.uk See online for film listings.

Morden Park Pool Parties in either teaching pool or main pool for £80 (£10 less if member). Both include 1 hour swimming and 45 minutes in party room. Saturdays and Sundays. 020 8640 6727

Tooting Playzone (soft play for under 4s). Big Splash (for swimmers over 9) in main pool. Wet’n’Wild in teaching pool for non-swimmers (9 and under). Adventureland bouncy castle and party games. Trampoline with coach. Supersports (mixed games). Streetjazz. You can bring your own food or tea + party bags provided (see with the centre for price). All parties Saturday or Sunday. 020 8333 7555.

Wandle Playzone with outdoor area party for young children. Sports hall party (bouncy castle, soft play, ball games). Mixed games in whole hall (5 a side, basketball, badminton, netball). Bouncy castle and mixed games party. Picnic area available with table and benches. Weekends only except Adventure Zone. 020 8871 1149

Diane's Puppets THEO THE MAGICIAN

Handmade Puppets, Original Shows Silly songs & fast Facepainting. dianes-puppets.co.uk facebook.com/DianesPuppets 020 7820 9466

Silly Millie the Clown

Parties for 3-9 year olds Funny Magic Show, Puppet’s, Party Games, Silly Songs and Balloon Animals Call 020 7823 8329 - 07939 239397 www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk

Fun Magic for Children & Adults Free Magic Wand & Certificate for Birthday Child 07711 724129

“The Magic Circle, Equity & CRB” www.magictheo.com

June 2012

Party

Special

Pottery Painting & Craft Studio •Paint your own pottery – perfect for gifts •Baby hand or footprints •Silver keepsake jewellery •Parties available; Pottery, Decopatch & T-shirt Painting •Holiday workshops Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-6pm 85 Nightingale Lane, Wandsworth SW12 8NX 020 8772 8702 www.smartypaints.co.uk

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on Compiled by Sophie M-C. Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline or we got it wrong... Please send info to whatson@familiesmagazine.co.uk for editorial consideration.

DRAMA LONDON RUSSIAN BALLET SCHOOL PERFORMANCE AT TRINITY HOSPICE

the end of the show you can play in the sand too! FREE EVENTS AT POLKA FIRST SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH: POPUP POLKA FAIR. 11am-4pm, free, all ages. With handmade crafts, gifts and delicious treats! Young people can enjoy Polka’s playground and the café will be open as usual. WORLD OF STORIES AND MUSIC -Sat 2 Jun. “Once Upon a Time in Merton” is a unique storytelling project with fathers and their children in Merton. They will perform the stories they’ve chosen. All ages. Bkg: storytelling@polkatheatre.com AFTER-SCHOOL CLUBS Please check the website for details of this exciting programme!

Trinity Hospice, 30 Clapham Common north Side, London SW4 0RN. 20 Jun. Reception from 6.30pm, performance 7.15pm. Tickets £20, concs £15, family (2+3) £45. Bkg in advance www.trinityhospice.org.uk/ballet

HIDEAWAY 2, Empire Mews, London SW16 2ED 020 8835 7070 www.hideawaylive.co.uk Sat 9, 16, 23 & 30 Jun. BOOM BOOM’S BOW, with Lea Delaria and Janette Mason. Doors 11am, show time 1pm. A totally interactive jazz musical that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Fantastic family fun that will give everyone moving and shaking to the blues! It’s a great introduction for children to music and musical instruments. Children £8, adult £12, family £35.

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com SHOWS 1-30 Jun. RUN! A SPORTS DAY MUSICAL It’s Ella’s last day at primary school and her last chance to show she’s more than just the shy girl. This funny, heart-warming musical follows four students and their teacher, Mr Budge, in a story of falling over, getting up and carrying on. With original music and dance. £8/£12. 7-11yrs. Fri 8 Jun. After Show Talk 2.30pm Sat 16 Jun. BSL Interpreted Performance 2pm. Sat 23 Jun. Autism Friendly Performance 5.30pm. VISITING ADVENTURES £7/£9 Wed 6-Sat 9 Jun. MR & MRS SOMMERFLUGEL A gentle poetic circus of visual antics accompanied by live music, objects shadows and trickery! 2-5yrs. Fri 15 & Sat 16 Jun. FIDDLESTICKS Tap your feet and listen to the beat in this lively blend of clowning, rod and shadow puppets, percussion and live music. Fri 22 & Sat 23 Jun. CIRCLES IN THE SAND Tam Tam theatre’s charming show uses carefully chosen objects to explore playing in the sand. At

June 2012

THE THREESIXTY THEATRE Kensington Gardens (by Kensington Palace) Dial Walk, London W2 2UH . Bkg: 0844 871 7693 Info: 0844 871 7627 www.atgtickets.com To 9 Sept. THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE This new adaptation of CS Lewis’s classic children novel by Rupert Goold will be held in a specially designed theatre tent in Kensington Gardens, and combines puppetry and hi-tech multimedia, projecting the magic of Narnia with Imax-style video backdrops. The Ultimate summer experience in the Park! £25 to £60.

SOUTHBANK CENTRE

THE COLOUR HOUSE THEATRE Merton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way, SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk or www.legendtheatre.com Sat & Sun 2pm & 4pm both days. £7/£8 To 24 Jun. LEGENDARY HISTORIES. A festival of highly entertaining and interactive theatre, featuring shows straight from the pages of history! Join us in finding the silly bits from the past with “the Tudors”, “Ancient Greeks”, “Victorians”, “Egyptians”, “Invaders” and exploring from the pages of the Beano Derek the Sheep in “The Quest for the Googly Glasses”. Fantastic family shows!

Tue 5-Sat 16 Jun. SISTER ACT Based on the movie of the same name, this fabulous, familyfriendly, feel-good show is packed with songs inspired by Motown, funk, soul and disco. MonSat eves 7.30pm. Thu & Sat mats 2.30pm. £18.50/£43.50. Sat 21-Sun 22 Jul. PEPPA PIG’S TREASURE HUNT A brand new show featuring true to life puppets, perfect singalong songs and a new story that will charm and delight all Peppa’s fans. 10am, 1pm & 4pm. Adults £13.50/£15.50. Children £11.50/£13.50.

Putney Arts Much Ado about Nothing

Purcell Room at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8PXX 0207 960 4200/ 0844 847 9910 www.soutbankcentre.co.uk Sat 2 to Sun 8 Jun. THE GIRL WHO FORGOT TO SING BADLY by Finegan Kruckemeyer. Ingenious performer Louis Lovett leads the audience on an untamed adventure that crosses snowy lands and wild see. As the little girl Peggy O’Hegarty desperately tries to save the day, we learn about love, loss, the reassurance of goats, and the courage to sing gloriously on or off-key. £12. 6yrs+. 8 page 34

PUTNEY ARTS THEATRE Ravenna Road, Putney SW15 6AW 020 8788 6943. www.putneyartstheatre.org.uk/welcome Tue 19- Sat 23 Jun. MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING 7.45pm, Sat matinée 3pm. William Shakespeare’s dazzling comedy of love and deceit. Tues £5/£7, Wed-Sat £7/£10. Sat 7 & Sun 8 Jul. OPEN-AIR THEATRE: MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING by William Shakespeare. Will be staged under the trees of the picturesque 18th century Old Burial Ground located next to the Theatre. Bring picnics and blankets. Capacity is limited, book early. £7/£10.

London’s professional mobile bicycle mechanics •Bicycle servicing, repairs, sales, restoration and fleet maintenance. •Bikes and scooters road side assistance and recovery. We come to you anywhere in London and Greater London. 0800 0910 500 www.cycledelik.com

TARA STUDIO 356 Garratt Lane, London, SW18 4ES 020 8333 4457 www.tara-arts.com Launching in JUNE. EARLSFIELD AT THE CENTRE OF THE WORLD. An interactive exhibition following the changing face of Earlsfield. Visit the website for interactive maps and activities for families and children, Sat 2 Jun. INSIDE I’M A LION 10.30am & 1.30pm. This little girl has a big secret. She grows a jungle where her heart should be. A magical tale told through storytelling, puppetry and live music. £9/£10.

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE The Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1QG 0844 871 7646 www.ambassadortickets.com/wimbledon

What’s on

Unicorn Theatre Something very far away

UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, Southwark, London SE1 2HZ 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com Fri 1-Sun 24 Jun. SOMETHING VERY FAR AWAY After a tragic loss, Kepler looks to the stars for answers. Using puppets, animation, music and sound, this show is a beautiful piece about love, loss, space and time. Sun 10 Jun. Meet the team behind the show after the 3pm performance. 8yrs+. Tue 12-Sat 23 Jun. TALES FROM THE RIVER THAMES Based on stories written by 600 primary school children from across Lambeth, Southwark and Waltham Forest, get ready to enter a world of river pirates, monsters, mermaids and talking fish, as you pass through the doors of Number 10. Please meet in the unicorn foyer to start your journey. The production takes place at Number 10, Bermondsey Street. 7yrs+.

KIDS FRENCH TALES £5/£7(inc. a Bear Nibbles voucher and a glass of juice) Sat 23 Jun. LES PETITS EXPLORATEURS 11am (60mns), in easy French. Let’s pack our bags and go on a trip. Where shall we go? Through stories, music and pictures, we will discover together the wonderful world we live in! 3-5yrs. Sat 30 Jun. LES JO DES ENFANTS 11am (60mns), in easy French. On their way to London for the Olympics, the athletes have stopped at the Institut Français. We have plenty of stories, songs and games to play together. 3-5yrs. AU THEATRE THIS SUNDAY Educational and entertaining theatre performances specially adapted for primary school children wishing to progress further with French language and culture. Sun 24 Jun. PICTURES OF LOVE 3pm (60mns), in easy French and English. After Théophile Gautier. A lovely story, where the writer Théophile Gautier sees a painting coming alive and falls in love. Alongside Victor Hugo, Alfred de Musset and Chateaubriand, Gautier is one of the most important French romantic writers of the 19th century. His most famous novels are Le Capitaine Fracasse and The Romance of the Mummy, which inspired many modern movies. £8/£10. Early booking recommended.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Little Venice, Blomfield Road, London W9 2PF 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com 2 Jun 11am & 3pm, 3 to 8 Jun daily 3pm, 9 Jun 11am & 3pm and 10 Jun 3pm. £8.50/£10.

2, Charing Cross Road, London WC2 0HH 0844412 4662 www.barmybritainlive.com To Sept. HORRIBLE HISTORIES – BARMY BRITAIN Written by Terry Deary, Neal Foster and Ciaran McConville. Wed to Fri 1pm, Sat 10.30am & 12noon, Sun 3pm & 5pm. British history is full of barmy people who did nasty things to each other. With blood, battles, murder and mayhem HORRIBLE HISTORIESBARMY BRITAIN explores stories from Roman, Tudor, Stuart, Georgian, Victorian and WW1 periods and features famous characters such as Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, Florence Nightingale and General Earl Haig. £14.50, £12.50, £10. 6yrs+

SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE THEATRE 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT 020 7902 1400 www.shakespearesglobe.com To 9 Jun. GLOBE TO GLOBE 2012. Part of the World Shakespeare Festival for the London 2012 Festival. For the first time, 37 international companies will present all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays in 37 different languages. Full listing: www.shakespearesglobe.com/globetoglobe GLOBE 2012 THEATRE SEASON – THE PLAY’S THE THING From 7 Jun to 26 Aug. HENRY V by William Shakespeare. From 23 Jun to 13 Oct. THE TAMING OF THE SHREW by William Shakespeare.

REGENT’S PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE

CINE LUMIERE/ INSTITUT FRANCAIS 17 Queensberry Place, London SW7 2DT 020 7871 3515 www.institut-francais.org.uk CINEKIDS: Sat 23 Jun. LE REVE DE GALILEO 11.30am, in French. 5 delightful short films of animation about the sky and the stars. £5. 3yrs+. BABY FRENCH TALES £5/£7 (inc. a Bear Nibbles voucher and a glass of juice) Sat 16 Jun. LES PETITS CHAMPIONS 11am (60mns), in easy French. I can run really fast and jump really high. When I go to the swimming pool I still have to wear armbands but I’m not scared of the water anymore. My favourite sport is riding my bicycle without any stabilisers. 0-3yrs.

GARRICK THEATRE

Puppet Barge THE TOWN MOUSE AND THE COUNTRY MOUSE The story tells of two cousins who visit each other, both experiencing exciting new sights and sounds.

Inner Circle, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4NR 0844 826 4242 www.openairtheatre.org To 8 Sept. RAGTIME Tragic, poignant and ultimately triumphant, Ragtime is a Modern Classic. Set at the turn of the 20th century, this powerful musical unites three families separated by race and destiny. An experience not to be missed! £17.50/£44.50 2 Jun – 5 Sept. A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Shakespeare’s enduring story of young love. Featuring the Open Air Theatre’s celebrated fusion of original music, movement and unique setting, this magical, comedic and seductive tale is set to be one of the theatrical highlights of the year. £17.50/£44.50

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on

FESTIVALS OXO TOWER WHARF

BT LONDON LIVE

South Bank, London SE1 9PH In June, a great selection of Free exhibitions, shows and events. Please check www.coinstreet.org 17 Jun. COIN STREET FESTIVAL 2012. CELEBRATING SANCTUARY. Bernie Spain Gardens. Free. 2-7pm An annual one day festival to celebrate the arts and culture of Refugee communities in the capital with music, dance and spoken words.

www.btlondonlive.com A huge celebration of sport, music and other entertainment in Hyde Park, Victoria Park (open throughout the Olympic Games) and Trafalgar Square (open throughout the Paralympic Games) offering hundreds of thousands of visitors the chance to join in the excitement of the London 2012 festivities, for free.

SOUTHWESTFEST FESTIVAL

E4 UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL AT THE SOUTHBANK CENTRE

www.southwestfest.org.uk 22 Jun-4 Aug. Will celebrate all that is great about SW1, organised by the community, for the community. Kicking off with The Pimlico Proms on Fri 22 Jun, then Sat 23 Jun the Carnival Parade will bring OlymPimlico to the streets of SW1, ending at the hugely popular Gala Day in St George’s Square Gardens. During the 6 weeks there will be stand-up comedy, Street Theatre, a cruise down the Thames, live music and much more

FESTIVAL OF THE WORLD Southbank Centre, London SE1. www.southbankcentre.co.uk To 9 Sept. An urban beach with a twist, the largest ever UK poetry festival and the chance to work with and learn from the world’s leading artists. There will be many opportunities to get stuck in and take part, plus art, music, comedy, markets and free events to enjoy.

THE LONDON 2012 CULTURAL OLYMPIAD www.london2012.com/cultural-olympiad The largest cultural celebration in the history of the modern Olympic and Paralympic Movements. The culmination of the Cultural Olympiad is the London 2012 Festival, providing over 10 million chances to see free world-class events throughout UK

LONDON 2012 FESTIVAL www.festival.london2012.com A huge cultural celebration coinciding with the Olympic and Paralympic Games in London. you can enjoy everything from free concerts and art exhibitions to Shakespeare’s plays and dance performances.

To 8 July. Bkg & info: www.underbelly.co.uk www.southbankcentre.co.uk 08744 5458282 or in person at the Southbank Centre Box Office. This festival is one of the best places to meet friends and socialise boasting one of the biggest outdoor areas in Central London. Sun 3-5 Jun. CLAYTIME 4.15pm £10/£15 A place where the earth’s natural materials meets the children’s imagination. With live musical accompaniment. 3yrs+ Sun 17 Jun, Sat 30 Jun & Sun 7 Jul. COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS 4.15pm £10/£15 Cracking entertainment for everyone over the age of 6, with the best comedians on the UK circuit. Sat 16 Jun & Sun 1st Jul. THE ADVENTURERS CLUB 4.15pm £10/£15 A smash hit sell-out of Edinburgh Festival Fringe and an afternoon of sheer hilarious adventure. Family show. Thu 7-Sun 10 Jun. THIS IS A THAT 4.15pm £10/£15. Peut-être Theatre’s show is a unique fusion of dance and theatre for families and children inspired by the stories that French Absurdist playwright Eugene Ionesco wrote for his young daughter. Sat 23-Mon 25 Jun. THE GIRL WITH THE IRON CLAW 23/24 at 4.15pm, 25 at 5.15pm. £10/£15. A sellout success at Edinburg 2011, this captivating dark fairy tale tells the story of a girl who dares to follow her longing. With stunning puppetry, enchanting music and deft humour.

Robert Styles Punch and Judy shows Museum Childhood

EXHIBITION & MUSEUMS NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Cromwell Road, London SW7 020 7938 9123. Info: Mon-Fri 020 7942 5000. Sat & Sun 020 7942 5011 www.nhm.ac.uk Mon-Sat: 10am – 5.50pm Sun 11am-5.50pm. Free. EXHIBITIONS To 16 Sept. ANIMAL INSIDE OUT Strip away the flesh and travel on an anatomical safari of the natural world and explore the intricate biology and physiology of some of the world’s most spectacular creature. £6/£9, family £27. To 2 Sept. SCOTT’S LAST EXPEDITION Explore Robert Falcon Scott’s epic Terra Nova expedition to Antarctica, with powerful tales of endurance and many scientific achievements. To 30 Sept. WILD PLANET The wildest landscapes and most endangered species will be showcased in a free outdoor exhibition running throughout the summer of the Olympics featuring 80 classic shots from Wildlife Photographer Of The Year. DAILY FAMILY ACTIVITIES Weekends and school holidays 11am-5pm. Quieter times are 11am-12noon and after 3pm. Mon-Fri in term time 2.10pm-5pm. Free. Full listing on 8 www.nhm.ac.uk/education page 36

Ramsden Hall, 21 Ramsden Road, London SW12 8QX Capture the excitement of learning at Oaktree Nursery School. Where children become independent, inquisitive and motivated in a happy caring environment. Incorporating art, music, yoga, sport, cooking, drama and all aspects of the Early Years Curriculum. Ofsted Outstanding - Dec 2011 Please come and see us in action. Annabel Dixon 020 8870 8441 dixonannab@aol.com www.oaktreenurseryschool.co.uk

June 2012

What’s on V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD

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

Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200, www.vam.ac.uk/moc Daily 10am-5.45pm. Free. EXHIBITIONS To 9 Sept. BEAUTIFUL GAMES What makes an athlete successful? How does the latest technology help us to become faster and stronger? As part of the exhibition, visitors young and old can get their own blood pumping with a white knuckle ride in a virtual skeleton bobsleigh, measure their reaction time with a ‘beat the clock’ test, and throw some moves on an electronic dance floor. To 28 Oct. MASCOTS OF THE OLYMPIC GAMES This display showcases over 50 mascots from the last 44 years of summer and winter Olympic Games including the London 2012 mascots, Wenlock and Mandeville. FAMILY EVENTS Mon 4-Fri 8 Jun. PLAYFUL PUPPETS 11am4pm. Make a Punch and Judy puppet. Complete our playful Puppet trail for a chance to win a goody bag. Drop-in, all ages Mon 4-Fri 8 Jun. PINOCCHIO 11am-3pm. Enjoy drama games, scenery painting, costume design and storytelling. At 2.30pm, perform your version of the story to family and friends. Dress for mess, bring a packed lunch. Bkg essential. 511yrs. Sat 9 & Sun 10 Jun. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MR PUNCH. 11.30am, 1pm, 2.15pm & 3pm. Celebrate his 350th birthday! And enjoy traditional, slapstick Punch and Judy puppet show. Thurs 28 Jun. BARNARDO’S BIG TODDLE 10.30am-12.30pm. Dress up as your favourite superhero and take part in Barnardo’s short sponsored walk for under 5s. money raised goes towards Barnardo’s projects for disadvantaged children. Register at www.bigtoddle.co.uk or call 0845 270 9900. Thurs 28 Jun. TODDLERS TAKE OVER 12noon-4pm. An afternoon of free activities. Face-painting, masks making, a super hero fitness session and stories. Under 5s. Sat 30 Jun. NEW VOICES FESTIVAL 12noon6pm. A day of live music, carnival procession, dance, theatre, workshops, stalls and food. Dropin, all ages.

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HT 020 7730 0717 www.nam.ac.uk Daily 10am-5.30pm. Free EXHIBITION To 31 Aug. WAR HORSE: FACT & FICTION A new major hands-on exhibition exploring the true history behind the hugely popular “War Horse” novel by Michael Morpugo. Free. FATHER’S DAY EVENT 16-17 Jun. 11am-4.30pm. Explore the ways in which the Army has kept itself in trim historically, as well as the British Army Olympic achievements. Shooting on a 1940s style rifle training range. A 1940s style assault course. Rock wall climbing. 19th century sword play. Free entry. ACTIONS ZONES – VICTORIAN SOLDIERS ACTION ZONE Quizzes, games and hands-on activities help you learn about life as a Victorian Soldier and the part they played in the shaping of Britain’s Empire. Free, in “Changing the World Gallery”. KID’S ZONE Daily 10.10am-5.15pm. This new children’s play area explores aspects of army life from camping to clothing and includes a dedicated soft play space for babies, plus art and crafts, dressing-up costumes, books, interactive toys and panels. Adm charge applies. www.nam.ac.uk/kids

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM

DESIGN MUSEUM

Threadneedle Street, London EC2R 8AH 020 7601 5545 www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. Free 6-8 Jun. CROWNING GLORY 10am-4.30pm. Create your own crown to take home. Enter the quiz about monarchs and the Bank to win prizes. Sat 23 & 30 Jun. OPEN DOOR – PART OF THE CITY OF LONDON FESTIVAL The Bank of England and Museum are open to visitors for 30mns behind-the-scenes tour. No bkg. Last entry 4pm.

Shad Thames, City of London SE1 2YD 020 7403 6933 www.designmuseum.org 10 Jun & 1 Jul. HAT TRICKS 2-4.30pm. With our team of designers on hand to assist you with your creation, let your imagination take flight using a range of exciting materials to adorn your stylish headwear. 5-11yrs. £4.50 per child and accompanying adults £11. 29 Jun. DESIGN OVERTIME: SUMMER PARTY Mad Hatter Design Museum 6pm-10pm. £7.50 in advance & £11 on the door. The last chance to see Christian Louboutin exhibition and the very first chance to experience some indigenous dressing up, dance and song at the Design Museum.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM LONDON Lambeth Road, London SE1 6HZ 10am-6pm 020 7416 5320/5321 www.iwm.org.uk EXHIBITIONS A FAMILY IN WARTIME Experience the life on the home front, during the Second World War, through the eyes of one London Family. With interactive exhibits, photographs, recorded interviews with the family, archive film footage, paintings, personal documents and an intricate model of the Allpress family home. Free. To Oct. BUILD THE TRUCE At the first

Olympic Games in 776BC an ”Olympic Truce” was created in order to enable athletes from Greece’s warring cities to travel and compete in safety. Reinstated at the 1992 Games, the Olympic Truce continues to exist today. Explore the concept of truce, from challenging notions about the inevitability of war, through to truce as a method of conflict resolution and what it can mean on a practical level. FAMILY EVENTS 2-10 Jun. WOMEN AND THE HOME FRONT 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm. Discover how women contributed to the war effort and how they coped with rationing and the dangers of the London Blitz. Free drop-in activities for all ages. 16-17 Jun. BUILD THE TRUCE 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm. Take part in a series of discussion, art and writing activities looking at why wars happen and how they are brought to an end. Free dropin, all ages.

Tel: 020 8696 9680 FamiliesSouthWest.co.uk

What’s on THE WALLACE COLLECTION Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN, 020 7563 9500/ 9551 www.wallacecollection.org 10am-5pm. Free. Wed 6 Jun. FABULOUS FURNITURE. 10.30am-12.15pm or 2pm-3.45pm. Free, drop-in workshop, 5yrs+. Draw swags, swirls and flowers and make your own collage pattern in gold and bright jewel colours. Thurs 7 Jun. RUBBING SHOULDERS WITH A KNIGHT IN SHINING ARMOUR 10.30am-12.30pm or 2pm-4pm. £7 per child, 7yrs+. Explore the armouries and try on original and replica armour, make a brass rubbing and turn it into a selfportrait, using collage, of yourself as a knight (or Lady). FAMILY PUBLIC TOUR Sat 30 Jun. Free, drop-in. 2.30pm. Explore the collection through new eyes and handle objects as the young curators from St.Vincent’s Primary School guide you through intriguing corridors and magnificent rooms. DAILY SELF GUIDED ACTIVITIES- NO NEED TO BOOK -FAMILY MULTIMEDIA TOUR with interactive games. Small fee. - FREE ARMOUR HANDLING Daily. Find out what a brigandine is and how heavy a bullet-proof breastplate really was. - FAMILY TRAILS Themed family trails available from the information desk at the front Entrance

THE NATIONAL GALLERY Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN 020 7747 2894/2885 www.nationalgallery.or.uk and for family events www.nationalgallery.org.uk/what FAMILY SUNDAYS Free hands-on art workshops at 11am & 2pm every Sunday. Meet in the Education Centre Foyer (Orange St Entrance). For Children aged 2 to 5: MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING 10.30am-11am & 11.30am-12noon. Fly away on the magic carpet, which comes to land in front of a different painting each Sunday. Children aged 5 to 11 Join us for workshops and drawing sessions 11am, repeated 2pm 10 & 24 Jun DRAWING SUNDAYS. RELAY MIX Experiment with the art of relay drawing, try out different speeds, materials and shapes in collage competitions and family drawing events. FAMILY WALK AND TALK 12.30pm-1.30pm. Join us on a themed journey through the collection where we will walk, talk and bring paintings alive! Suitable for all ages. EXHIBITION: To 16 Sept. TAKE ONE PICTURE: PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN INSPIRED BY VERONESE Room E, free. How can a single painting ignite the imagination and curiosity of young people? This display captures a range of creative responses to Veronese’s “Family of Darius before Alexander”. MORE GALLERY FUN TRAILS AND AUDIO TOURS Families can print it out from www.nationalgallery.org.uk/families or pick one up at Information Desks

June 2012

DAY ACTIVITIES HMS BELFAST Morgan’s Lane, Tooley Street, City of London SE1 2JH 020 7940 6300 www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast 10am-5pm. £6.75 to £13.50. Come and explore this large cruiser which saw action in both the Second World War and the Korean War and is now a short walk from both London Bridge and Tower Bridge. 2-10 Jun (closed 3 Jun) SIGNALS AT SEA 11am12.30pm & 2pm-4pm. Learn about signaling in the navy and participate in sending and decoding messages. Free, suitable for all ages with parental supervision. 23-24 Jun. MATERIAL CULTURE: HISTORY IN YOUR HANDS Drop-in 11am-12.30pm & 2pm-4pm. Find out more about countries, cultures and journeys HMS Belfast has taken whilst in service. All ages with parental supervision.

BATTERSEA PARK CHILDREN’S ZOO Battersea Park, Chelsea Bridge Gate, London SW11 020 7924 5826 www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk 10am-4.30pm. Adult £7.95, children (2-15) £6.50, family £26. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Usual entrance fee applies for activities. Mon 4 & Tues 5 Jun. Children wearing a Crown or Tiara can claim a free biscuit from the Lemon Tree Café. To 10 Jun. ANIMAL PORTRAIT DRAWING COMPETITION (Part of the BIAZA “Love Your Zoo” Campaign) children can pick up a drawing pack upon entry and create a portrait of their favourite animal! The top 3 win an adoption of the animal in their portrait and a Family Day Ticket to the zoo. Thurs 7 Jun. HEDGEHOG DAY Story telling and themed arts and crafts. 4x45mns sessions, starting at 11am. 1st am and 1st pm session ONLY are bookable in advance through the PTES: www.ptes.org/events. The 2 other sessions are on the first come first serve basis. Sun 17 Jun. FATHER’S DAY TREAT Kids treat your Dad to a free slice of cake when you visit the zoo today. Tue 19 Jun. FRIENDS OF BATTERSEA PARK BARBECUE AT THE ZOO. 6-9pm. Live music, Bar, Tombola, children’s activities, silent Auction. Advance tickets only. Adults £15 (£20 after 14 Jun) children £6, under 6s free. Bkg: www.batterseapark.org/bbd or 020 7622 5199.

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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

ROBIN FARQUHAR-THOMSON Wonderful Pictures of Children

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

EVENTS AND DIARY DATES •TROOPING THE COLOUR – THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARADE 16 Jun. Horse Guard Parade in London St James’s Park The ceremony is full of military pomp and pageantry as the Queen carries out an inspection of the troops from the household division. The Queen then leads the troops down the Mall to Buckingham Palace, salutes and guns are fired in Green Park and at the Tower of London. Finally she joins other members of the Royal Family on the balcony to watch the RAF flypast. •WILDLIFE WATCH CLUB -WIMBLEDON COMMON Meet on the first Sunday of each month at the information Centre, Wimbledon Common, near the Windmill. 10am12pm. 6-14yrs. £1 registration fee and £2 per session. 020 8540 6154 3 Jun. SHELTER BUILDING 1st Jul. MINI BEAST SAFARI •MINT POLO IN THE PARK 2012 Hurlingham Park, Fulham SW6 3PR www.polointheparklondon.com Bkg: 0844 248 5069, page 38

Highly Qualified Permanent/Temporary Weekend / Before and After School Nanny staff available, also reliable Babysitters Housekeepers and Cleaners available Please call Caring Hands Services 020 8279 1830, 07908 561552 e.mail: frain.caringhandsservices@hotmail.co.uk Or visit us www.caringhandsservices.co.uk

020 8788 3029 info@willownannies.co.uk |www.willownannies.co.uk

family tickets available. 8, 9, 10 Jun. 12noon-9pm. Polo players from all over the world will battle each other in a furious display of horsemanship. A wonderful day with a mix of sport, entertainment VP experiences, fun and glamour like no other. •ST PETER’S CHURCH AND ST PETER’S C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL JUBILEE SUMMER FETE St Peter’s Church, 119 Eaton Square, London SW1W 9AL. www.stpetersfundraising.com Sat 16 Jun. 12noon-6pm. Ade Adepitan MBE, the Paralympian basketball player and TV presenter will open the Fête at 12.30pm with a live demonstration of his skills. Also games, arts and crafts, competitions, raffle, music and food. All the money raised will go to the St Peter Fundraising 2012. •35th Common Fayre @Holy Trinity Clapham Sat 16 June from 11am •LADY MARGARET SCHOOL GARDEN PARTY Parson’s Green, London SW6 4UN www.ladymargaret.lbhf.sch.uk/pta Sat 23 Jun. 11am-3pm. 50p/£1. Fun activities for families and children, including tombola, toys, games, inflatables, silent auction, but also visitors can shop for crafts and gifts, browse for plants, books and bric-a-brac, and discover stalls from entrepreneurial pupils in year 9. Plus, tea, cakes and bar. •RBC RACE FOR THE KIDS Battersea Park, London SW11 4NJ www.raceforthekids.co.uk sign up today! Sun 24 Jun. 10am. RBC Race for the Kids is Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity’s 5K fun run. Men, women and children of all ages are welcome. Entry closure Sun 17 Jun. Adults (16yrs and above) £15. Child (5-16yrs) £10. infant (under 5yrs) Free. •ST BONIFACE SCHOOL SUMMER FAYRE St Boniface School, Undine Street, Tooting, SW17 8PP Sat 30 Jun. 12noon-4pm. £1 adults, kids go free. With a fabulous Roller Disco (pre booking required), inflatables, arts and crafts, tombolas, BBQ, bar and more. Info & bkg: vichamilton@hotmail.co.uk •JOSEPH HOOD PRIMARY SCHOOL SUMMER FAIR At St James Church, Martin Way, Raynes Park. josephhoodptfa@gmail.com 0777 058 1121 Sat 30 Jun. 12noon-3pm. 30p/50p. Family fun including BBQ, face painting, bouncy castle, cake & plants stalls and much more. •NCT NEARLY NEW SALE Putney Leisure Centre, Dryburgh Road, Putney, SW15 IBL Sun 24 Jun. 3pm-5pm. Sale of nearly new babies’ and children’s equipment, clothes and toys. £2 entry fee for National Childbirth Trust Charity. To advertise in the goody bags, take a table to sell your things, donate items or volunteer: potter.pamela@googlemail.com or 07971 033320 •ENGLISH HERITAGE LONDON EVENTS www.english-heritage.org.uk APSLEY HOUSE. 149 Piccadilly, Hyde Park Corner, London W1J 7NT 0870 333 1181 2-24 Jun. WATERLOO FESTIVAL Every Weekend enjoy lots of events and activities in the build-up to the Battle of Waterloo. £4.90/£7.40/£8.20. •ELTHAM PALACE. Court Yard, Eltham, London SE9 5QE 0870 333 1181 23/24 Jun. A GRAND MEDIEVAL JOUST 11am-4pm. A magnificent medieval joust where fighting knights enter battle in a thrilling show of talent and bravery. £6.60/£9.90/£11, family £31.20. Bkg before 20 Jun and get a discount. •LEEDS CASTLE Near Maidstone in Kent just off Junction 8 on the M20 and only one hour’s drive from London 01622 765400 www.leedscastle.com Grounds open at 10am daily and the castle is open from 10.30am-6pm. Adults £19.75. concs £17.50, children £12.50, under 4s free. 5-10 Jun. JOUSTING TOURNAMENT Medieval activities and family entertainment. Plus, a craft activities marquee for children, face painting and archery (small additional charge). 23 & 24 Jun. MEDIEVAL KNIGHT SCHOOL A chance for children to try on replica medieval armour, helmets, breastplates, chainmail and gauntlets, have a lesson in medieval swordsmanship and participate in a fun recreation of the Battle of Agincourt •DIY SCREENPRINTING WITH HELEN BRIDGES The Papered Parlour, 7 Prescott Place, London SW4 6BS 020 7627 8703 www.thepaperedparlour.co.uk Sun 10 Jun 12-5pm. Expert printmaker Helen Bridges will guide you through the fundamental of contemporary printmaking. From stencil cutting to colour separation, learn cutting edge screenprinting techniques that will allow you to develop your designs at home. £77.50 (includes materials & refreshments) •HEALTH AND ENERGY BOOSTING PRODUCTS, detox and weight loss using natural ingredients. Wed 13th June at 8pm in SW12. Call Nell Lindsell 0795 655 1003 or visit www.yoga-forever.com •THE AUTISM SHOW 15+16 June, Open 9.30am-5pm each day, £15 on the door. ExCel London, One Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London E16 1XL, 020 8882 0629, www.autismshow.co.uk The Autism show brings together the latest thinking, skills, practical advice, professional consultations and specialist products to help better your understanding of autism.